This past weekend, I experienced one of the most beautifully put together gatherings of my entire life at Cafe Spiaggia. The best part? This little soiree happened to be thrown for me to celebrate the upcoming birth of my little girl.
Now I have to be honest, from the day I found out I was pregnant, I never intended on having a a Baby Shower. Not only is it considered somewhat taboo in the Jewish religion (we love our superstitions), but I also just got married a year ago and had a ton of festivities surrounding that. I just didn’t feel like another party was necessary.
Well my desire to stay under the radar didn’t last too long. You see, my best friend Brett, from Her Tasty Life, insisted on throwing me a party. We settled on a Baby Sprinkle vs a Shower (it’s a more intimate version of a Baby Shower with less people, no games and no gifts). Although I had some hesitation, when she mentioned it would be hosted by Cafe Spiaggia, it became impossible to say no. I mean, who could really say no to one of Chicago’s most delicious restaurants? I know I couldn’t.
Now, let’s talk about those details!
The Food
Now, it wouldn’t be me if I didn’t start by talking about the food, right? Just take a look at this menu…
Have you ever seen a more picture perfect menu? Normally, food at most celebratory events is an afterthought. This is definitely not the case at Cafe Spiaggia. Before we even got to the main menu, we started with an abundance of charcuterie, cheeses and spreads. After that, we got started on an 8-course meal of a lifetime. The menu featured an array of seasonal ingredients, fresh pasta, house-made cheeses and inspired flavor profiles. I’d love to say I could pick some highlights, but in reality, everything was just simply delicious.
See the beauty for yourself…
The Decor
From table decor to flowers, Cafe Spiaggia aids in the full production of your event. I actually felt like I was walking into one of those parties you see on Pinterest (but don’t ever actually see in real life). The way they executed Brett’s vision was amazing. Even down to my flower crown detail, everything couldn’t have been put together any better.
The highlight for me had to be unbelievable and massive balloons at the entrance to the room. I’ve never seen anything like them and I know they searched far and wide to get them for me. Brett told me that she tried to order them herself from a vendor she’s worked with before and the lead time was too long. When she mentioned it to Cafe Spiagia, they didn’t even hesitate and were able to find them in time.
The People
I simply couldn’t write this post without mentioning the incredible group of friends that came to celebrate me. It’s crazy to think that less than 3 years ago, I was living in Boston, studying Real Estate and unsure where my life would be. Now, I’m following my dream as a foodie in Chicago, happier than ever and some how managed to infiltrate one of the coolest most inspiring lady tribes in the city.
It also wouldn’t have been a complete party without my unbelievably talented friend, Tek Chung, in attendance behind the camera. If you need a photographer for ANYTHING (lifestyle, party, etc), he’s your guy. I bring him in to shoot all of my parties. We even did a little impromptu pregnancy shoot after the party.
Amazing, right?
From the our first e-mail about the event to the time we left the venue after the shower, everything could not have been more perfect. The private events team at Cafe Spiaggia is world-class and I couldn’t recommend them more. If you are looking to throw an event with amazing food, a picturesque atmosphere and impeccable service, Cafe Spiaggia is the place to do it.
Oh…and did I mention the restaurant even arranged for Tony Mantuano to stop by and say hi? Yeah…that actually happened. *pinch me*.
Love always,
Erica
Ashley says
You’re baby sprinkle was the prettiest ever!!! And your snapchat floral crown COULD NOT have been more perfect!
Xoxo,
Ashley || Sed Bona
Mimi Weisberg says
Gorgeous baby party! So great to meet you today at AES. I love your blog!
Mimi