Let us SHOW you what a Concierge does

January 17th, 2012 | Author: Magen |

As we have already shared, January 26th is Concierge Day here in Chicago.

We also have described what a concierge does for you before.  But sometimes, actions speak louder than words, right?

Therefore, the team here at Concierge and Event Services Worldwide would like to provide concierge services for you.  FREE concierge services. Until January 26th, at least!

So, if you would like assistance, please head to our facebook page and either put your request on our wall, or in the comments.  If you tweet us, use the hashtag #conciergeme . We’ll follow you if we don’t already, in order to be able to exchange email via DM.

Is your request a little personal?  Email it to cesworldwide@gmail.com .

The Fine Print: Listen- we love you and want to help….. but some requests are so huge we cannot fulfill them for free.  For instance, we won’t plan your wedding for 500 people.  Sorry! Also, we have real paying clients too, so we will do our best to fill your request in the most timely manner possible.

So, don’t miss this great opportunity to have a personal concierge, for free!  Have a question? Just ask!

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Concierge Day is January 26th

January 11th, 2012 | Author: Magen |

This is the second Year that Concierge Preferred and the Mayor of Chicago have teamed up to celebrate the Concierge Community by declaring January 26th Concierge day in Chicago 2012.

CP concierge day proclamation for 2012, 10.11

Last year, we wrote about this honor as well as what a Concierge does here. Last year we also were thrilled to go to the Hard Rock Cafe Chicago for the Chicago Concierge Favorites Awards.  At the end of the evening we had quite a surprise as our own Sheryl Novak was honored as one of the three concierge inducted into the Concierge Hall of Fame.

Do you want to learn more about our concierge community?  Have a concierge you really like?  You can learn more about individuals who have been honored as Concierge of the Week on CP’s Blog here.

 

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Iroquois Theatre Fire…a needless tragedy

January 5th, 2012 | Author: David | Topics: ,

(In memory of those who perished that day)

Chicago has certainly had its share of tragic events from the Great Fire of 1871, the Eastland Disaster to the 1958 deadly fire of Our Lady of the Angels where 92 children and three nuns perished. It was December 30, 1903, 108 years ago, as Chicagoans were busy enjoying the holidays, theater patrons composed largely of women and children , were at the beautiful Iroquois Theatre located at 24-28 West Randolph where the Oriental Theatre now stands. It was a beautiful and magnificent building but there were many structural deficiencies. Large iron gates blocked off the stairways during performances to prevent patrons from moving down from the gallery to get better seats in the dress circle or orchestra. Many of the exit routes were confusing, skylights on the roof of the stage that were intended to open automatically during a fire to vent the heat and smoke were fastened closed.

On that particular December day in 1903 the Iroquois was presenting a matinee performance of a popular Drury Lane musical entitled ‘Mr. Bluebeard’ starring Eddie Foy. This particular performance had drawn a much larger audience than usual, with every seat filled and hundreds of patrons in the “standing room” areas at the back of the theatre. Many of the estimated 2,000 patrons in attendance were children. The standing room areas were so crowded that some patrons sat in the aisles thus blocking the exits making this a disaster just waiting to happen and so it did. Approximately 3:15pm at the beginning of the second act, a dance number was in progress when an arc light shorted and ignited a muslin curtain. Although a stagehand tried to control the fire it quickly spread to the fly gallery high above the stage where thousands of square feet of highly flammable painted canvas scenery flats were hung. The stage manager tried to lower the fire curtain but it snagged and at a later investigation of the curtain it was found to be mainly wood pulp mixed with asbestos and would have been of “no value” in a fire. Panic and chaos reigned as people were simply trapped in many areas resulting in stampedes to exits only to find the iron grates that barred the stairways were still in place. The huge double doors that were normally used for scenery were open allowing “a cyclonic blast” of cold air to rush inside creating an enormous fireball. The hot gases and flames quickly passed over the people in the orchestra seats and incinerated everything flammable in the gallery and dress circle levels, including all the people still in those areas. The largest amount of deaths were found at the base of the stairways where hundreds of people were trampled, crushed or asphyxiated.

After the fire it was alleged that fire inspectors had been bribed with free tickets to overlook code violations. The mayor ordered all Chicago theaters to be closed for six weeks after the fire. The theater’s managers and several public officials were indicted in connection with the fire but none were ever punished. This tragedy did spur a drastic toughening of safety standards for theaters and other public buildings and these rules became the benchmark for the nation. All theater exits had to be clearly marked and doors rigged so that even if they could not be pulled open from the outside, they could be pushed open from the inside. The exterior of the theater was mainly intact and later reopened as the Colonial Theater, which was torn down in 1926 to make way for the Oriental Theater which stands today. Personally the next time I attend a theater performance at the Oriental I will remember this tragic event and bow my head in silent respect and say a prayer for all of those people who were lost. Over 600 people needlessly perished that day with much greatly due to greed and violations.

 

 

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Are we having fun???

December 19th, 2011 | Author: Magen |

I know that this time of year is crazy busy (our concierge team can attest to that!), but we hope you have taken a moment to read over our newsletter and mid-week E-mail blasts to find something just for you!  Enjoying the holiday season seems impossible, but we know that taking a little time for yourself, whether its booking a mani-pedi for yourself, seeing your favorite theatre production or having a drink with friends, you will find you have much more energy if you recharge your batteries. You know we are always happy to help with suggestions and reservations.

 

 

 

 

The team at CESWW wishes you a safe and peaceful holiday season. May you find joy in the days ahead and we wish you all the health, happiness and sucess possible in 2012!

 

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Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

November 23rd, 2011 | Author: Magen |

Thanksgiving is a time to remember what we are grateful for- and we are grateful for you, blog readers.  It’s true that posting has been a little sparse these days- we’ve been busy with our clients! Something else that we are also grateful for!

So, we hope that you have fun exciting plans this Turkey Day.  If you decide that cooking isn’t your thing- Open Table is a great resource to find all the Thanksgiving offerings!

Please, let us know what you are thankful for, and have a happy and safe Thanksgiving weekend.

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A step outside of Chicago…to a world of art & music!

November 11th, 2011 | Author: Magen | Topics: , , ,

Rosemont Illinois is a bustling suburb that is just outside the Chicago city limits. With easy access via the CTA Blue Line the Kennedy Expressway, planning a getaway weekend has never been easier!

River Road is the “main street” of Rosemont. From this street you can eat, go to a concert….even gamble, with the new addition of Rivers Casino to Des Plaines.

Reserving a room at The Inter Continental Chicago O’Hare is perfect way to effortlessly move through the weekend. This hotel is nestled among the Capital Grill and McCormick and Schmicks, next door to the Rosemont Theatre and blocks from the Allstate Arena. Their rooms are bright and ultra-comfortable. The staff is friendly and will do everything they can to make sure you have an amazing stay. The concierge team (Bobbi and Chris) are there to answer any questions and assist with your plans.

Most importantly…you have many entertainment options right in the hotel! After dining at one or both the adjacent restaurants, plan on an incredible night of live and cutting edge music in the hotels “Montrose Room”.

With ringside cabaret seating and the “Ice Bar” that serves martinis in glasses made of pure ice, you are sure to have a rockin’ time!

 

 

 

If that is not enough, stop by the concierge desk and they will take you on a tour of the hotels extensive ART Collection! The ‘Art Museo’ embraces many mediums – sculpture, canvas, architecture, photography, music and culinary – offering an experience that would rival a renowned gallery anywhere!

 

We were very impressed with The InterContinental Chicago O’Hare and its staff. We are planning to ask Santa for a gift certificate, so we can organize our stay very soon! See you there!

 

 

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Date Night in Chicago

October 12th, 2011 | Author: Magen |

Let’s talk about your love life, shall we?

Single, in a relationship, or married- dating is important.  Going out on dates, spending time together- is important to the health of (or potential for) any relationship.

Let’s look at our standards for a great date place:

1- Atmosphere conducive to conversation- I’m not saying that every date must contain deep philosophical conversations- but really, the whole point is getting to know each other better, or rediscover each other.  You can’t do that if you have to scream “What?” over the din of blaring televisions or the pumping bass of music.  Don’t get me wrong- music venues and loud sports bars are fun- but not when it comes to dating.

2- Type of date is compatible with activity levels- This doesn’t mean that every date has to be in a restaurant, across a table, with dim lighting.  If you both are active people- take a walk together, volunteer together, go bowling.  These are all activities that are GREAT for dates because the activity doesn’t get in the way of getting to know each other. You learn something about your date when you go bowling that you can’t learn from sitting in a movie theater.

3- A place that makes you feel a certain way-relaxed, hip, sexy, etc.  (COZY) When dating, especially in the early stages- the places you go on a date indicate how you like to feel.  You want someplace where you can relax and be yourself- but also someplace that makes a statement about the kind of person you are- that leaves an impression.  On one hand, an Italian restaurant makes a WAY different statement than a Chinese buffet in a strip mall. On the other hand, if avant-garde restaurants with flavored foams aren’t your scene- then it is doubtful you will feel comfortable on a date at a place that serves food like that. A great date place is one that finds the balance between showing who you are, and making a good impression. (This does NOT mean the place needs to be expensive.)

4-Shared interests- Say you are a Vegan and really into eco-conscious food. Say your date is really into prime steak.  You find a restaurant that has a farm to table focus- and offers both vegan and meat options. Great date places are all about compromises and shared interests.

5- Shows YOU are listening to someone else’s interests- Say your upcoming date mentioned in passing how she really was craving sushi.  Or your date talks about how excited he is about the upcoming Bears game.  Make sure that your next date is at a sushi place- or has the Bears game (with sound on.)

Having said that- here’s a list of favorite date places in town.

 

DiSotto Enoteca- This cozy little Gold Coast gem is romantic with good food.

Devon Seafood-  If you can’t get a table, even eating at the bar is a lovely experience.

Trattoria # 10- Another great Italian place- this is close enough to the Theatre district that you can enjoy a show afterwards!

DOC Wine Bar- It’s so comfy, you could spend hours on the couch in front of the fire.

Bijan’s Bistro- This is a favorite of mine- because they stay open late- and the people watching is highly entertaining. You never know who you will see there.  Plus, the food is excellent.

Indie Cafe- This Edgewater location is small with a unique half Thai/ half Japanese menu.

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Chicago news

October 5th, 2011 | Author: Magen |

My plans today involved writing a blog post- but then I got caught up in some local news headlines- and they are fascinating.  What Chicago news stories have captured your eye today?

First there is the following article from the Sun Times:

http://www.suntimes.com/8033118-417/chicago-area-expected-to-endure-worst-winter-in-nation.html

Go ahead- I’ll wait for you to read it…….

Basically, winter is going to stink this year.  Tons of snow, cold weather, etc.  I swear an article comes out like this once a year- and everyone seems surprised.  Harsh winters?  In the Midwest? But, but WHY?  We live in a cold region that is pretty notorious for seasonal extremes.  Why is everyone surprised?  I mean sure, this kind of weather would throw me off if I lived in San Francisco, or Texas, but I don’t live there.  Don’t get me wrong- I get pretty sick of winter every year too- and spend every March wondering why I don’t just pack up and move to California.  HOWEVER- I grew up in Northern MN- where typical winter temps can hit 20 below zero, and you have to put a heating block around your engine and plug it in at night- so really- even at it’s worst- Chicago winters could be FAR worse.  (When I was a kid I walked through the snow barefoot, uphill- both ways!)

SO- let’s talk about what you can do to enjoy a long, harsh, Midwestern winter.

  • DVR/Netflix catch up- Long nights means curling up on the couch and catching up on all those shows and movies you were too busy to see all summer and fall.
  • Cooking fun- Have you meant to master that apple pie recipe?  Make use of your crock pot? Bake cookies? Winter is a great time to spend extra time cooking and baking.  The weather outside may be frightful- but a fun dinner indoors is delightful.  Even more fun? Invite friends!  Rotate from house to house and take turns hosting a meal!
  • Lounge Wear- Invest in new cozy slippers, pj’s, a warm robe or a blanket.  Then you’ll be all excited to hang out at home in your comfy clothes!
  • Home projects- Normally are you too busy to organize your home office or redecorate your bedroom?  Winter is the perfect time to tackle a project like this.
  • House Parties- everyone else is sad about the snow, cold temps and short days.  So have a group of people over- just because!  Make the party have a silly theme.  You don’t have to get elaborate- just spend time with friends- and help keep up morale.

Secondly is this article from CBS Chicago.

http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2011/10/05/gay-pride-parade-to-be-rerouted-into-uptown/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=cbschicago

Once again- I will wait while you read it…

So- in conclusion- the parade route is moving north and extending in order to avoid crowd issues, etc.  Also, the start time has moved up 2 hours.

First- the start time: This seems wrong to me- BUT- mostly because my favorite part of Pride is a pre-parade brunch with friends every year.  I used to enjoy actually attending the parade- but as I got older, had a kid, etc…… I can’t quite handle the crowd size, public drinking, etc. like I used to. (Mind you, I’m not judging any of those.  That is part of Pride- and a great part of it- I’m just a firm believer if you don’t like something, choose not to participate- don’t ruin someone else’s fun.)

Second- the changed route.  SO- I just moved- from Uptown to North Center.  My old apartment was located on Broadway just north of Irving Park.  This would put my old apartment directly along the new parade route.  Awesome!  Except that whole not being able to leave the house for any reason thing…. Still- I’m curious to see if the changed route has a positive impact on crowding.  Also, I’m thrilled to see Uptown more involved in the action.

So- as always- I’m curious as to your thoughts Chicago.  Are you ready for winter?  What do you think of the changes to the Pride Parade?  What news stories are catching your eye?

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Fall days…Family days!

September 27th, 2011 | Author: Magen |

Fall is finally here! As the season changes, we pull out the warmer clothes and make a date to spend a sunny and crisp day at the apple orchard. Picking your own apples might not be something you have thought about, but it really is a lot of fun! No matter what age you are, it seems there is something for everyone! We have been heading out to our local orchard (Edwards, in Poplar Grove, IL) since my kids were little. They are now adults…and we bring along boyfriends, best friends, extended family…..who ever want to tag along! There is something about throwing on a pair of jeans and a sweatshirt, jumping on a hay wagon and heading out to the apple orchard that brings everyone together and slows down the busiest lives. We stroll down the rows of apples, picking (and tasting!) delicious apples and place them in a bushel that all too soon gets filled to the brim. Once we all get back to our cars and load the bushels safely in our trunks, it’s off to experience the rest of what the apple farm has to offer. From country store to country music playing live…..we take in all the festivities. After the kids have ridden on the pony ride and run through the corn field maze, it’s time to head home. The bushels of apples will last us all a few weeks of homemade applesauce and apple pie making in our kitchen, not to mention an apple in our lunch for days to come. But best of all, is the memory of a wonderful day spent outside with our family and friends. Here are some farms that we know of. I hope you plan an apple picking day for your family soon….

 

Just one small note: after picking the farm you plan to go to, call to check on hours and apple picking availability. We do not want you or your family to be disappointed!

 

Happy Fall!

 

All Season Apple Orchard

Address: 14510 Route 176 in Woodstock, IL 60098 in McHenry County, IL
Phone number: (815) 338-5637
Hours: Wednesday thru Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm
Highlights: Pick apples, petting zoo, gift shop and more.
Website: www.allseasonfarm.com

 

Curran’s Apple Farm

Address: 6385 Trask Bridge Rd (Route 70) in Rockford, IL 61101 in Winnebago County, IL
Phone number: (815) 963-7848
Hours: Middle-September through beginning of December from 9AM to 6PM Tuesdays thru Sundays

Highlights: Pick apples, baked goods, gift shop and more.

Website: www.curransorchard.com

 

Homestead Orchard

Address: 11802 Charles Road in Woodstock, IL 60098 in McHenry County, IL
Phone number: 815-338-7443
Hours: Through October on Monday through Saturday 10:00am to 4:00pm , Sundays 12:00 to 5:00
Highlights: Pick apples and purchase homemade honey
Website: www.homesteadorchard.net

 

Lang’s Orchard

Address: 17411 Secor Rd in Woodstock, IL 60098 in McHenry County, IL
Phone: 815-568-7547
Hours: Early September through October. Saturday through Wednesday, 11 am – 5 pm
Highlights: Pick apples, baked goods

Website: www.langsorchard.com

 

More Than Delicious Orchard

Address: 9905 Thompson Rd in Woodstock, IL 60098 in McHenry County, IL
Phone number: 815-338-2309
Hours: Usually starting in middle September; on Saturdays and Sundays, 10am – 5pm.
Highlights: Pick apples
Website: www.morethandelicious.com

 

Royal Oak Farm and Fruit Orchard

Address: 15908 Hebron Road in Harvard, IL 60033 in McHenry County, IL
Phone number: 815-648-4141
Hours: To November 30; 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM Monday – Friday; 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturdays; Closed on Sundays
Highlights: Pick apples, petting zoo, “Royal Oak Express”, snack shop, orchard tours and more

Website: www.royaloakfarmorchard.com

 

Edwards Apple Orchard

Address: 7061 Centerville Rd Poplar Grove, IL 61065 in Winnebago County, IL

Phone: (815) 765-2234

Hours: Open: 9 am to 6 pm daily, during September through November

Highlights: apples, horse-drawn hay rides, hay maze, petting zoo, gift shop and more

Website: They do not have one.

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Man of Steel in Chicago

September 14th, 2011 | Author: Magen |

It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s… Superman!  No, really- the Loop has had the Superman crew filming since last week.

Usually when a movie films downtown the production details never stay quiet too long.  After all, downtown is a busy place, and with tons of people walking around, it’s impossible to hide street closures, etc.

According to WGN and other sources we know that the Chicago Board of Trade building acts as the outside of the Daily Planet, and Willis Tower as some interiors.

20110912-113257.jpg

Image courtesy of Cineaste’s Lament

According to some colleagues, I hear that they are also using the IL Center too.

Certainly, there have been celebrity sightings around town.

So, have you sighted anything?  Know the scoop?  Please, do share.  The level of secrecy regarding filming details has been fascinating, especially compared to previous downtown filmings.  We know Governor Quinn visited the set, but other than that….

Let us know if you see anyone flying through the air, okay?

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