In a city as vibrant as Chicago, making everyday decisions — where to order dinner, get a haircut, push your kids on the swings — can feel downright dizzying. Enter our (eighth annual!) Best Of awards: You shared your favorite spaces and places, we tallied the votes, and together we’ll celebrate all that makes our beloved communities shine.
Here are the Best of 2018: Celebrations winners:
Best Band
Arlen Music Productions
1415 Sherman Ave., Suite 101, Evanston, 847-869-8826
For the fourth year in a row you have named this entertainment company number one! Arlen Music Productions features five incredible special event dance bands — Ken Arlen Evolution Orchestra, Indigo, Front of House, Entourage, and Velocity, plus many other specialty ensembles.
Best Bridal Shop
Mira Couture
1 E. Delaware Place, Chicago, 312-255-1699
When you’re on a quest for the dress, turn to Mira Couture to find everything you’re dreaming of.
Best Caterer
Catering by Michaels
6203 Park Ave., Morton Grove, 847-966-6555
Whatever you’re celebrating, this catering company will make it memorable. Plus, they’re the only North American caterer that’s both Green Restaurant Certified and Green Seal Certified.
Best Event Planner
Stacey Moe Events
847-323-5284
Need help planning your next event? Stacey Moe Events will make sure it’s one you and your guests will never forget.
Best Event Venue
Stan Mansion
2408 N. Kedzie Blvd., Chicago, 773-276-0099
This historic mansion in Logan Square is the top-rated place to host everything from a wedding to a birthday party to a corporate event.
Best Florist
Flowers by Katie Ford
312-343-1863
Katie Ford started her business in order to bring joy to others through flowers. “Flowers by Katie Ford has been a blessing in every sense of the word, and I am full of gratitude for the support the North Shore has shown me,” Ford says.
Best Photographer (City)
Anna Zajac Weddings
According to Anna Zajac, “you’ll find nothing but good vibes and high fives here.” Enough said!
Best Photographer (Suburbs)
Julie Kaplan Photography
847-681-1522
Julie Kaplan says she prides herself on “excellent customer service and beautiful wall art for my clients to cherish forever.” You definitely think she succeeds — this is the fifth time Julie Kaplan Photography has been voted a Best Of winner.
Best Stationer
Calligraphy by Katherine
From addressing envelopes and invitations to certificates and poems, all of Calligraphy by Katherine’s work is “hand lettered with utmost attention to detail.”
