10 Science-Backed Secrets to a Happy Marriage

It turns out happily ever after can also translate to healthier ever after as married couples enjoy all types of physical and mental health benefits. Studies show marriage can help protect against heart disease and stroke and that those who say “I do” have lower levels of cortisol (aka the stress hormone). Married people even have a […]

2016 Wedding Ideas, Tips and Trends to Help You Plan

A wedding celebration marks not only the marriage of two people who’ve waited a lifetime to walk down the aisle together, but also the culmination of months or even years of preparation for the big event. Not sure where to start? Read our wedding guide for help finding the perfect gown and jewelry, selecting the […]

Bridal Bliss: Wedding Dresses and Accessories for Your Big Day

On your wedding day, it’s all about the details. From intricate beading to breathtaking lace and sparkling jewels, these gowns and accessories will ensure you dazzle from head to toe. Credits: Photos by Jennifer Avello Styled by Lesley Simon Written by Brooke McDonald Model: Natalie Patricelli of 10MGMT Makeup by Gabrielle Raguso of Glam’d Chicago Hair […]

Engagement: Andrea Foreman and Daniel Fisher

After their respective first marriages ended, Andrea and Daniel joined a dating site. After a few tentative online interactions, they decided to meet for dinner — and the rest is history. “When we met, I realized we had so much in common,” Andrea says. “We talked for hours and didn’t even realize anyone else was […]

Chicago's Best New Wedding Venues

Looking to book a chic and unique venue for your upcoming nuptials? Setting the tone for a successful soirée starts with selecting the right venue for your big day. Check out our list of some of Chicagoland’s newest and most notable venues for a wedding tailor-made to match your wedding style. Modern, Edgy and Industrial 1. […]

‘I Do’ Take Two: Remarried Couples Share Their Wedding Stories

The best-laid plans of mice and men oft go astray — it’s a time-honored idiom. From cancelled flights to well-intentioned gifts, things don’t always go as planned. And sadly, sometimes marriages are included among the litany. But when two people are lucky enough to find happiness again, tying the knot for a second time can […]

Not-So-Perfect Weddings: Stories From Our Readers

My father needed to be at the county clerk’s office in beautiful South Bend, Indiana by 4 p.m. to pick up his marriage license. The only problem — he had forgotten the pearl necklace he was giving my mom as a wedding present. After doubling back to Chicago for the necklace, he tried to make up […]

How to Pick the Best Music for Your Wedding

If you’ve been to many weddings, you know that the right music can make an otherwise great wedding spectacular. Whether you opt for a live band or DJ, choosing the soundtrack to your special day — and who will play it — can be overwhelming. We talked to some of the hottest music acts in […]

Chicago’s Coolest Venues for Private Parties

No matter the celebration, it’s always especially memorable when the event takes place at a unique venue. These Chicago and North Shore locations are hidden gems, perfect for your next wedding, anniversary party, shower, bar mitzvah or birthday bash. Greenhouse Loft Located in the Platinum LEED-certified Green Exchange building, Greenhouse Loft is Chicago’s most sustainable […]