Victoria Nicole Bridal Collection
February 22, 2012
Victoria Nicole
Victoria Nicole has been designing and creating timeless, romantic wedding dresses for more than 20 years. “I feel the most important part of what I do is to make the bride feel beautiful in the way she looks, so that she exudes an air of confidence, grace and elegance,” says Victoria Nicole, an award-winning wedding dress designer. A L’Amour is pleased to represent the glamorous-yet-romantic Victoria Nicole wedding gowns in the Chicagoland area. Her bridal gowns are perfection thanks to the use of the finest silks, laces and design concepts, which can only be mastered with years of experience. Timeless and exquisite. Romantic and fresh.
Gowns range from $2,700 – $7,200
Average cost between $3,000 – $5,000
Join us in a romantic bridal week as we present the Victoria Nicole Collection.
22 Years Old and 22 Reasons to Shop Our Birthday Sale!
February 10, 2012
A L’Amour celebrates a birthday on Valentines Day!!! We opened A L’Amour Bridal in Barrington, during a blizzard 22 years ago and we opened A L’Amour Party in Northbrook, during a blizzard last year. What better way to celebrate than with a blizzard of savings for our wonderful customers.
Happy Bithday Savings on Saturday, February 11th, Sunday, February 12th, and Monday, February 13th at both locations.
(Please note….special orders and previous sales are excluded from this event!)
22 Reasons to Shop….
In Our Main Level Showroom in Barrington and our Social Area in Northbrook
20% off all Social Occasion Dresses
20% off all Mother of the Wedding Dresses
20% off all Cocktail Dresses
20% off all Shoes
20% off all Jewelry
Select Social Occasion Dresses 50% off
Select Social Occasion Dresses $50
Select 1st Communion and Pre Teen Dresses 50-70% off
In Our Bridal Area (Barrington only)….
Select Bridal Gowns 50% off
All Headpieces and Hair Jewelry 20% off
All Veils 20% off
Select flowergirl dresses $50
All Brides Purchasing a Bridal Gown will be given a lovely Bridal Package worth hundreds of dollars toward future purchases at A L’Amour as well as our very favorite “Select” Vendors! The package includes the fabulous “The Wedding Book” by Mindy Weiss which we have filled with amazing offers just for our brides.
In Our Prom Loft in Barrington and Prom area in Northbrook….
10% off all Prom gowns
20% off all short “Party Dresses”
20% off all prom garters
All Prom Shoppers will be entered into a drawing for a $200 Gift Certificate!
All Prom Buyers will be entered into a drawing for a “Free” Prom Gown.
(The Purchase price for your gown will be totally refunded.)
All Prom Shoppers will be entered in a drawing for a free Portrait Session with Light Drawn Studios.
FREE GIFT WITH PURCHASE…
All Prom Buyers will receive a Prom Package Giveaway worth hundreds of dollars at A L’Amour, A L’Amour Party, and a host of other vendors.
The Ultimate….Every girl purchasing a Prom Gown at A L’Amour will be entered into our “Cover Girl” contest.
That’s right….it will be your chance to be on the cover of next years Cool Book magazine modeling one of the fresh new Prom 2013 gowns!
(Please Remember….special orders and previous sales are excluded from this event!)
Prom Kick-Off Party
February 9, 2012
Don’t miss the excitement at A L’Amour and A L’Amour Party!
We are having a party! A BIG Party!
Our beautiful collections for prom 2012 are arriving everyday and we are ready to showcase these fabulous gowns on Saturday, February 11 from 10-4, Sunday, February 12 from 12-3, and Monday, February 13, from 10-7 in Barrington and 12-7 in Northbrook
We will be showcasing the “Cool Collection”, dresses created by your favorite designers exclusively for the Cool Book and found only at A L’Amour in Barrington, and A L’Amour Party in Northbrook.
Trunk Show Spotlights for the Weekend….
A L’Amour Spotlight LA FEMME
A L’Amour Party Spotlight SHERRY HILL
Take Part in All of the Special Happenings
All Prom Shoppers will be entered into a drawing for a $200 Gift Certificate!
All Prom Buyers will be entered into a drawing for a “Free” Prom Gown.
(The Purchase price for your gown will be totally refunded.)
All Prom Shoppers will be entered in a drawing for a free Portrait Session with Light Drawn Studios.
FREE GIFT WITH PURCHASE…
All Prom Buyers will receive a Prom Package Giveaway worth hundreds of dollars at A L’Amour, A L’Amour Party, and a host of other vendors.
The Ultimate….Every girl purchasing a Prom Gown at A L’Amour will be entered into our “Cover Girl” contest.
That’s right….it will be your chance to be on the cover of next years Cool Book magazine modeling one of the fresh new Prom 2013 gowns!
GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT!
February 9, 2012
Back by popular demand………..
A L’Amour presents Girls’ Night Out
at our Barrington location!
Girls’ Night Out has been such a huge success, that we are repeating it.
We are eager to present yet another evening of fashion and fabulous savings
Thursday, February 9th, from 4 to 7 PM in Barrington ONLY!
We will offer 20% off on all of our social occasion and bridesmaids dresses (excluding companies with MSRP).
If you are searching for the perfect dress for evening, black tie or a special gala event, begin your search with us. A party coming up–we have the perfect dress.
If you are the Mother or Grandmother of the bride or groom….
A L’Amour has one of the best selections of dresses in the Chicagoland area.
Turnabout coming up…shop now.
We are also offering 20% off on all of our fabulous Accessories.
Check out our special selection of dresses for $50 and $100.
Check out a selection of dresses for flowergirls reduced to $50!
A Select Group of “In Stock” Bridal Gowns
40%0ff
Our staff eagerly awaits the chance to assist you with your selections. You will have all of the personal attention that you deserve.
A L’Amour has proudly dressed women from their first special dress as a flowergirl, for first communion or Bat Mitzvah through all of the most memorable occasions of her life.
From 2 to 82, A L’Amour offers you the personal attention and selection you deserve. A L’Amour has been dressing dreams for 22 years.
(Special Savings at Girls’ Night Out only—Previous Sales Excluded.)
Happy Birthday!!!
February 6, 2012
It absolutely does not seem possible. A L’Amour will be 22 on Valentine’s Day. That’s right–our birthday is right around the corner and we will be celebrating. If you aren’t our fan on Facebook, you might miss some of the events–soooooo get on board right away.
Born on Valentine’s Day in 1990, A L’Amour was created by a mother/daughter team with a dream of creating a special occasion/bridal boutique that truly provided the personal service and attention needed in preparing for all the important moments in life. Their passion was to make the experience of shopping for that “special” dress, relaxing, exciting, and professional, not only for the bride, but for her mother and friends as well. Over the years they needed to “prove themselves” not only to the customer, but also to the designers who carefully scrutinize where they want to showcase their collections. A L’Amour has grown in reputation, size, and selection, but most importantly, A L’Amour has continually strived to provide the personal attention and passion for what they do within every aspect of the experience.
Depending on where you were and how old you are, you may not remember February 14th, 1990—but we certainly do.
Early February, 1990, was unseasonably mild. In fact the 2 preceding days before the grand opening of A L’Amour, the temperature was in the mid 50′s–the official high 54 degrees. The preparations for the celebration were much easier with the early, spring-like weather. The plans for food, flowers, fashion, and fun were well underway. The guests were invited; the “Ribbon Cutting” celebration set.
Fabulous French tulips lined the mirrored walls, the petit fours were baking, the bubbly chilled. But on February 13th the cold air swept in, setting the stage for a major snowstorm.
As reported by Tom Skilling, WGN…
“If you were smart, you would have stayed home that day… Valentine’s Day 1990 left a legacy of undelivered flowers and canceled dinners as a major snowstorm brought Chicago to a standstill. Snow began shortly after noon and quickly became heavy with visibilities dropping to near zero. The storm reached peak intensity during the evening rush hour as strong northeast winds gusting to more than 30 mph piled the heavy snow into huge drifts. Snow-clogged streets were littered with abandoned cars. The storm raged through the early morning hours of Feb. 15, blanketing the area with 8-12 inches of snow.”
The celebration planned for 7-9 PM, was in the midst of the intense storm, causing a myriad of cancellations, but through it all, the vendors, our family and our friends made the ultimate effort and joined us for our event.
That was the beginning……..and A L’Amour has experienced growth, recognition, and success over the past 22 years.
A L’Amour has received “The Knot pick “Best of Weddings” Award every consecutive year since it’s inception in 2007, and was recently awarded the Brides Choice Awards for 2012.
We have dressed many dreams and made lots of new friends as well. These relationships are what keep us strong.
Last year, A L’Amour Party in Northbrook opened its’ doors for the first time on February 1st to be followed by a Grand Opening on Valentines Day. Most of you will certainly remember February 1, 2011, “The Snowstorm of the Century”. Coincidence…maybe. Tradition…it would seem. Once again, bountiful snow became a part of the beginnings of A L’Amour.
In that very tradition, we celebrate 22 years in Barrington and our 1st year in Northbrook with all of the ambiance that a fresh snowfall brings.
No two snowflakes are the same….no two customers are the same, and no two experiences are the same. Our staff is passionate about creating a great experience, and the support staff is passionate about servicing each of you until the very day of your exciting event.
We are excited to celebrate 22 wonderful years of business in Barrington and our first year of business in Northbrook during the days of February 9 through 13, and we hope that you will join us in the festivities. Whether you are a bride from our first year in 1990 or beginning to plan your own special day, we would love to see you, in person or on our “wall”, and have you share your memories and join us for the celebration.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY A L’AMOUR and A L’AMOUR PARTY
“Like” us on Facebook and you will be updated frequently about all of our exciting events!!
Wtoo Brides Spring 2012
February 3, 2012
The amazing gowns from the 2012 collection of Wtoo Brides have arrived and are available for our brides. Such diversity, sumptuous fabrications, attention to detail and the Watters fit. You will not want to miss the chance to see this collection. Call now for your appointment!
Money…Money…Money
January 23, 2012
Congratulations! You are engaged—you are getting married. You are deliriously happy and excited. Now it’s time to start planning the wedding — the official celebration of your love and commitment. Once you make your announcement and tell the world your exciting news, you should be prepared for some of your family or friends to offer expertise in all aspects of you upcoming plans. It seems that anyone who has planned their own wedding suddenly becomes an expert in planning someone else’s. You and your fiancé’ need to make some important plans and decisions before involving anyone else.
As you plan your wonderful day, expect to experience a little anxiety and a little confusion. Organizing a ceremony and reception is a huge undertaking. There will be questions about everything. There will be discussions about budgets, guest lists, and the overall style of the wedding.
As you plan, please remember what this day is really about — a celebration of love. Stay focused. Make a promise to each other early on, that you will spend one evening a week, a “date night”, when the discussion of the big day is totally banned from your conversation, and simply focus on each other. Remember that the goal of all the planning is for a wonderful marriage and not an over the top wedding.
The engagement period is a wonderful time. Your wedding is a day you have dreamed about for a long time. You will be faced with decisions, compromises and debates. Before you get “caught up” in the process of picking and choosing, please take the time to carefully plan the budget and the time line. Do not visit a single reception site or try on a single dress, until these two vitally important steps are taken.
Money Money Money is not just an Abba song, but the starting point of a wedding.
Your wedding budget is one of the biggest factors in determining your wedding decisions. It is essential to make a clear budget early in the planning process.
Setting a budget for the ceremony and wedding reception should be easy — you have what you have and that’s that. Sticking to the budget is where things get tough. Sit down with both sets of parents to discuss how much money you have, how much money you need, and who will be paying for what part of the wedding.
Try to plan a wedding within your means. Before you begin, determine a priority list for the ceremony and the reception. Ask yourselves a question: Is what we are spending really worth it to both of us? Needing five years to pay off the reception is not the way to go. The latest figures show that 45% of weddings go over budget, so you might want to incorporate that fact into your planning.
One last thing to keep in mind is this sage advice from JoAnn Gregoli a wedding consultant from New Jersey. “The person who pays ultimately gets what he or she wants.” If you want an intimate wedding, but your parents want an extravagant affair and are footing the bill—be assured that your dreams may not be realized.
You will find yourself wanting to please everyone, but ultimately you need to please yourselves. By creating a budget and the overall plan for what you want, before you seek advise from family, friends or vendors, you are more apt to have the day of your dreams.
Golden Globes 2012
January 17, 2012
Many of us watch the award shows this time every year, not necessarily to see the awards, but to see the red carpet parade of fashion, sometimes a hit, sometimes a miss. The Peoples’ Choice Awards being a miss, but the Golden Globes were definitely a hit.
There is always so much inspiration to be drawn from the red carpet and this was no exception. In fact there were so many classic and beautiful looks that it is difficult to determine favorites. True Hollywood glamour has returned to the carpet.
In a season dominated by vivid color, a surprising trend at the Golden Globes featured a muted color palate with soft blushes, nudes, ivories and neutrals. The strapless was refreshingly interrupted by sleeves. Dramatic backs continued to be in vogue. An overwhelming number of gowns featured mermaid silhouettes and fishtail hemlines.
Some of the favorites…
Angelina Joli in Atelier Versace..Simplicity with a bold splash of color.
Helen Mirren in Badgley Mischka, alway a class act.
Sofia Vergara in Vera Wang and $5 million of Harry Winston Jewelry
Elle MacPherson in a creme, corseted Zac Posen
Heidi Klum in Calvin Klein
Julianne Moore in Chanel Haute Couture
Jessica Alba in Gucci and Bulgari Jewels
Did you watch? What were your thoughts..what were the hits and what were the misses? We would love for you to share your comments!
Miss America
January 16, 2012
The competition for the 2012 crown for Miss America concluded Saturday night when Miss Wisconsin, Laura Kaeppeler was awarded the title.
Although watching these competitions is not my cup of tea, I tuned in because so many of the designers featured at A L’Amour dressed the contestants. A L’Amour and A L’Amour Party proudly showcase designs by Tony Bowls, Jovani, MacDuggal, Terani, and Sherri Hill, all of whom have a strong presence in the pageant industry and were represented Saturday night. In addition, what is seen on stage in pageant competitions often influences the Prom collections from the designers as well. Last night I watched the competition not only as entertainment, but also as part of my job.
I must admit that I grew up watching Miss America. As a teen I watched the pageant every year, and dreamed of one day being crowned. Over the years I lost interest, but the buzz this year, by the designers we carry, encouraged me to tune in.
I have always been acutely aware of the wonderful scholarship awards that the pageant provides to the competitors as well as the winners. It is a wonderful opportunity for young women. I have never been a fan of the swimsuit completion, however, Saturday night I was blown away by the poise that these young women exhibited when parading on stage in their swimsuits.
The talent of the finalists was amazing as well—almost professional in the quality and the presentation.
I was equally impressed by the way the finalists answered the difficult questions posed by the judges…not an easy feat for the most accomplished of speakers especially when in the spotlight of millions of people.
What did not impress me was the way the competition was presented. Major changes were apparent to me, although I must admit I have not watched in a number of years. It seemed to me that the production was fashioned so that we were focused more on the reaction of the “loser” than of the winner.
I have since read online that the aim of this year’s production was to be more relevant and “hip”, with new elements of surprise. Tony Eaton, the producer, also teased that there would be one “squirmy” moment in the show that’s never before been attempted on live television. Tony relayed, “I was debating whether to do it or drop it, but I’ve decided it will go in. You’ll have to watch to see who squirms more — the audience or the contestants. It’s so radically new, you’ll be glued to it as it unfolds. I can only hope it goes well, as it’s never been tried before.”
On with the show…We were introduced to 53 contestants. Those girls were quickly reduced to 15 semi-finalists. In a classic reality-show twist, Brooke Burke announced that the 38 who were not moving on, would be able to vote later to save an eliminated contestant.
After the swimsuit competition the field was narrowed to 12—who quickly left the stage to change, leaving 3 girls in swimsuits on stage…the backdrop being all of the other 38 contestants.
I think the new feature was the “Save”. The final 12 were announced. As a “Surprise” the remaining 38 contestants were offered the chance to “Save” one of the 3 remaining girls left onstage by running and lining up behind the girl they wanted to “Save”. How “grade school” and childish—not at all what I thought the pageant represented. I could not help but feel sorry for the girls who stood on stage with not so many supporters behind them. “Squirm”. On top of that, Brooke Burke runs to interview the “Saved” Miss Alabama as she leaves the stage to get changed for the next part of the competition. You know…the “How does it feel to think you lost, but now you have a second chance” interview. Give me a break.
Then there was the final talent competition. All of the 13 finalists were to be ready and waiting to perform on stage—but some would not have the opportunity, only 10 would perform.
All costumed and prepared, again the audience watched as the finalists were told “in no particular order”, that they were “out”.
Reality TV—Idol, Project Runway, DWTS, The Apprentice—now too much a part of what should be a class act.
I watched the contestants—poised, accomplished, polished, talented women who aspire to make themselves and the world a better place. These are women who aren’t afraid to use the Miss America platform to pursue their dreams. A platform often criticized by the public.
The contestants were a class act……the production missed the mark. Hopefully there will be enough feedback across the country that the pageant organizers will step in and create a more sophisticated event that represents the caliber of women participating.
The Ring—Who Knew?
January 12, 2012
The History of Engagement Rings
- In 1477, Archduke Maximilian gives the 1st engagement ring ever.
- Before diamond engagement rings, a simple band with a poem or message was given…this was called a Posy Ring.
- In the 1700s, the ring of choice was the Heart Shaped Ring.
- Before diamond engagement rings became huge, ruby rings and claddagh rings were used.
- In the 19th century, a sewing thimble was given in place of a ring.
- The Diamond Engagement Ring became a staple in the 1930s.
- The ring is placed on the fourth finger on the left hand because it is said to have a vein, the vena amorais, which leads directly to the heart.
- $2,600 – $4,000 is the typical price men spend on an engagement ring.
- 80% of women receive a diamond engagement ring.
- The four C’s, when referring to an engagement ring, stands for: Color, Clarity, Carat, and Cut.
Source: TrendHunter
