1. Checked out a few hotels near O'Hare, for a second option for out of town guests. We settled on aLoft Chicago O'Hare. It's much cheaper than the city hotels, if that's a worry, and it's a short distance from the Blue line of the El (and the hotel will shuttle you there for free), which will take you right into the heart of downtown. It also has a pretty sweet bar in the lobby.
2. Had a really fun cookout at my parents' with the family and some friends. My cousin and bridesmaid Chantel came into town for a few days. It's literally been years since we've seen each other. It was so great to catch up, but more importantly, she finally got to meet Napoleon!
3. Chan, Napoleon and I ran around looking at Rehearsal Dinner sites. We checked out a Shoreline Charter Boat at Navy Pier, visited Rockit Bar and Grill, 10Pin Bowling Lounge, and Harry Caray's. Between them all, none really stood out as THE one, mostly due to our budgetary restraints. It felt a bit like wasted time, but definitely helped us weed some things out.
4. We finally visited St. Helen Church, where our wedding ceremony will be. We even got to meet the priest, who unexpectedly pretty great. We didn't stay long, just scoped it out and took a few pics. I did notice that while there are designated rooms for the Groom/Groomsmen and Bride/Bridesmaids, they are pretty teeny, and aren't very secluded. So I'm going to have to think about how/where/when we'll all be getting ready before the big show!
5. We also went back to Salvage One to visit, so that Napoleon could finally see it! Of course I had to take a few more pics of it, since I love it so much!
6. That night, Chantel had the brilliant idea to go to Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder for dinner. We were able to meet Napoleon's friend, and groomsmen, JP there. He's currently in Chicago getting his MBA. Chan and I couldn't resist ordering their specialty, the Pizza Pot Pie. It was pretty incredible.
7. The majority of the next day was spent bridal gown shopping with my mom, sister, and Chantel. We hit up Macy's Bridal downtown, J.Crew Bridal downtown, and then went up to the burbs to GiGi's Closette. I wasn't particularly excited about the challenge that lied ahead, mostly due to past experiences with shopping for long dresses. My 6-foot bod does not fit in sample sizes all too well. But despite the elephant in the room (pun intended), we had a great time, and my sister was a serious trooper when it came to helping me in and out of dresses. It certainly was a whirlwind though! And incredibly overwhelming. We ended the excursion knowing a LOT about what I DON'T want, but not too much about what I do want...aside from the price tag.
8. Following the gown extravaganza, I met back up with Napoleon and we went and had our engagement photo shoot. It was as awkward as we expected. I suppose it's good practice though for the real thing! Stay tuned for a post about the results.
9. That was the last of the wedding to-dos, so we were able to relax the rest of the weekend. We had an incredible home cooked meal by Kelly, and drank lots of wine with friends. It's so fun to get together, as though we hadn't been apart for so long. Kelly is planning her wedding as well, so it's great to hear similar stories and experiences from such a good friend.
10. Our last day in town was just what we needed. We relaxed at the Huffman's pool, and ate and drank all day long. What I wouldn't give to do that more often! We even played a few games of Bags...during which everyone got schooled by the old guys, as we aptly named them. I also confirmed that my competitive nature comes solely from my father, as my mom, while playing Bags, insisted on cheering for everyone, regardless of their team, if their bag came anywhere close to, or in, the hole. Oh, and Napoleon learned to love Old Style.
And that about wraps it up! All in all, a very fun trip. Not too terribly successful, wedding-wise, but still a great way to spend a few days of summer.
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