frankly speaking

When I think of desserts, I think cake. I have been a cake lover since I was a child. I remember my Mom making the best chocolate cake I ever had. She got the recipe in the cake mix aisle of the Jewel that used to be in Garfield Ridge, on Archer and Natoma. Some women rattled off to her recipe cake mix, a box of instant pudding, (this was before pudding was in the mix…I am dating myself). 1/2 cup water, 1/2 cup of milk, 1/2 cup of oil, 5 eggs, beat the hell out of it and then bake at 350 for 40 minutes (that is what she said, verbatim). My Mom had no paper and pen, so she just kept repeating this, over and over, hence why it has stuck in my brain for 40 plus years. Baking with my Mom was special. When she passed away, I didn’t cry, I just didn’t have it in me. But a year later, I was watching a special on Christmas cookies and lost it. I didn’t just cry, I sobbed for 20 minutes. Anyway, my Mom’s chocolate cake has always been a fave, so moist, so perfect.

Well Audrey, you’ve been beat! I was lunching today at the Ritz Carlton with Amanda and Melissa from Catering, discussing an upcoming event I am designing and producing there. I have been trying to be good and abstain from having dessert when lunching (it’s job hazard going to lunch a few times a week with clients and vendors…not mention tastings). When I saw “12 layer chocolate cake” as the first thing on the menu, I just had to. I haven’t done dessert in awhile, but this had my name all over it.  I swear, it was the best chocolate cake I have ever had. And God knows, this wedding consultant has tasted many a chocolate cake.

So hats off the Chef and to the newly opened  DECA eaterie at the Ritz! I can only say I was thrilled to have their “fab” veggie sandwich (I didn’t eat the bread) for lunch that  allowed me to splurge on this little slice of heaven. AMAZING!

Spent today at the National Bridal Market at Chicago’s Merchandise Mart. My day started w/ an 8am seminar on Social Networking and the Bridal Industry. Was pretty basic, and am already doing all the things they talked about. Was a good reinforcement to know I am doing what I should be. Then moved onto the tradeshow floor. Went to 3 styleshows. Trends in gowns: Strapless still going strong, the addition of a beaded belt to gowns is still being shown. Skirts to gowns are starting to be more flowy than fitted. I am seeing a return of lace and tulle. Pick up skirts are very strong. Veils are still being worn, but feathers and other hair jewelry and being worn at the recpetion for a different look.

I picked up a new purse line that my dear friend (sister really) and colleague Cyndi Basker from Celebrated Events turned me onto. There will be some stunning evening bags coming into the studio for my brides to consider for their wedding day. Cyndi and I talked over lunch about a celeb (who will remain nameless) who will be renewing their vows in a few weeks.. And that’s all I am saying. Kudos to her for landing this one. Cyndi is an amazing talent and credit to my industry. I also ran into Bill Brennan and Jim Verraros from Great Bridal Expo. They are always so nice and always take a moment to chat.. we really need to do lunch or cocktails. Also ran into my dear friend Jane Skarosi from the Bridal Mansion of Lisle. Jane has dressed many of my brides over the years. AND, I have gone buying w/ Jane to learn more about that aspect of the industry. Jane’s shop is lovely and her service is second to none. She personally presses each gown before it goes out.. that speaks volumes to me that she cares so much.

Bridesmaids.. showing alot of short dresses. Simple, no embellishments, but lots of textural details to the dresses. Color.. was all over. Alot of peacock blue. I think this is just the catchup of last year’s color of aqua annouced in April 2010. Saw alot of red as well.

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Nice quotes in Naperville Magazine.