Best of 2017: Celebrations

For the seventh year, our readers have voted for their favorite Chicago-area businesses in 11 categories. But before that, for the first time ever, we asked you to send us your nominations before voting began. We received more than 6,700 nominations! Now that the votes have been tallied, it’s time to announce our Best of […]

New in Town: A Dash of Joy Now Offers S'mores Bars

Interactive food stations are a fun party trend that allow guests to create their own, perfect-for-them dessert. If you’re planning a wedding, baby shower or philanthropic event, treat your guests to a s’mores bar from A Dash of Joy. This Chicago-based dessert bar company has been around since 2015, when they began offering customizable cupcake bars, […]

Love is Love: The Most Gorgeous Chicago Weddings of 2016

Weddings are indeed the grandest “affairs of the heart,” celebrating not only a couple’s lifetime commitment to one another, but also the things that matter most in their lives — from heritage and religious traditions to family, friends and shared interests. There are truly no ordinary love stories and no two weddings alike. From special […]

Rooms With a View: Gorgeous Chicago Event Venues

If you want to really “wow” your guests at your next big event, consider a venue that shows off our beautiful city in all its grandeur. Just think: You won’t have to spend loads of money on excessive decorations, flowers or table toppers — the lights and beauty of Chicago and the lake are bright […]

Planning an Event? Why You Shouldn't Sweat the Small Stuff

The most memorable celebrations aren’t perfect. In fact, they’re usually just the opposite. Something unexpected happens; everyone snaps to attention. Now they really have something to talk about! Please, don’t strive for perfection or let fears of what might go wrong stop you from gathering people together and celebrating something, anything good. The world needs […]

Best of 2016: Celebrations

Make It Better’s Best of 2016 drew more than 168,000 votes across 11 categories. Share your thoughts with us on social media using the hashtag #Bestof2016. Best Kids Birthday Party Venue Kohl Children’s Museum Party guests receive full-day admission and, if the host desires, the museum can take care of literally everything, including paper products […]

Last Chance! Win a Free Wedding Dress

Know a bride who could use a wedding dress? We thought so. It’s no secret wedding planning (usually) takes months of serious shopping and spending, from venues to décor to that very special dress. Julie Mersine Romeli, owner of Mira Couture, is familiar with the entire affair, having been in the bridal business since 2008. […]

Renew Your Vows and Recharge Your Marriage

After five years of marriage, a big move from Chicago to Grand Rapids, Michigan, new jobs and two new babies, Sarah Tupper knew she wanted to mark her wedding anniversary in a significant and meaningful way. “I think it’s easy to get lost in the everyday routine of life that shifts the focus off the […]