I need help from fellow chicago brides!

[tropiqalkiwi]

So, I officially had my first wedding nightmare last night!

The dream creeped me out: I was in a dirty hotel trying to clean it before my guests came and then people kept showing up asking me when I was going to get ready. I thought I had 2 weeks or so, but it was actually the day of the wedding! Then I started worrying because I had not yet hired a hair and makeup person or a florist, and the wedding was 3 hours away

!

I was so relieved to wake up in April with a little over 2 months till my wedding. But I feel like I certainly want to get on hiring these important people and recommendations from other Chicago brides would be a good start.

Flowers - Who did you use/are you planning on using? Or what was/is your flower solution? did you have someone get them from a flower shop and put them in vases for the centerpieces? I would also love to see pics of your bouquets if you want to share!

Hair and Make-up - Who was/is your stylist? Did you have them do Airbrush? If so did you feel it was worth the extra cost? Again feel free to post pics of yourselves all dolled up.

Even if you aren''t in Chicago, what helped you narrow these catagories down? Are their certain things I should be looking for with each? What helped you make a decision?

Thanks in advance, I''m just so glad you are all here and give me a place to share this kind of wedding stuff and actually do something to help the situation all at once.

 

[Blair138]

Well where in Chicago are you? I am in the burbs so there are millions of floral shops. I went with a place that has been used by friends for 2 separate weddings. I have seen their work and know they are good.

My sis is my makeup artist and yes she is doing airbrush. Airbrush is worth the money IMO but it may not be for others. I don''t really know where to look for makeup artists because I''ve never had to. Italiahaircolor could probably help you with that though.

 

[tropiqalkiwi]

Hi Blair, thanks for replying!

My wedding will be taking place downtown, but I am happy to use any florists or makeup people that are willing to travel.

I''m in the position of not living where the wedding is and I don''t know anyone who has had a wedding there recently (thus no recommendations or knowing that places do a good job).

Good to know that Italian is the go-to-girl for makeup, we''ll see if she replies.

 

[chibride10]

Hi! I''m a fellow Chicago bride but don''t feel like I can help you all that much, as my wedding planner has really narrowed down these fields for me. Also, a cousin (who is a hair stylist) is doing my hair and makeup. Have you thought about looking into day-of or week-of planning services? I know my planner offers both, and if you''re working with her, you can email her for advice and tips at any time. She''s very helpful in giving you a few options that are in your price range.

 

[tropiqalkiwi]

Thanks Chibride, glad you chimed in! I see you are getting married in October, have you found a venue yet?

I have a day of coordinator, but she usually does weddings in the suburbs, and our wedding is downtown. She has given me a few contacts and I have considered them, but I am hoping to broaden my range of proposals to see what is out there.

My problem might be related to how much research I feel I must do before deciding