The Trolley Tour on Sunday night was a lot of fun, due in great part to the fact I got the coolest trolley group to ride with (figuratively, not literally, since it was about 100 degrees in the front part of the car where windows refused to open). We had fun. So...to the stores on the tour. First stop: Smitten (1041 W. Madison Street).
This fairly new endeavor on the Near West side of Chicago is geared toward engaged couples looking for one stop shopping as they create the wedding of their dreams. From bejeweled frames to cute attendant gift ideas, their offerings were lovely; the atmosphere of the store is a cross between Paris chic and warehouse hip, with white painted brick walls, a massive black chandelier, and French doors that open from the back into what will soon be a refreshing garden area.
Private consult rooms are set off the main floor, which is a bright idea--but not based on light level. In the words of a nearby tour member peering into the small, decidedly dark rooms decked out in black and white, they’re “kind of depressing."
The attitude, however, was sunburst brilliant, as the owner, Kirstin (last name?) welcomed us with open arms. Undaunted by clicking cameras and a barrage of questions, she showed us all what retail hospitality is about.
If they bring in a solid selection of wedding invitation lines, this little gem could turn out to be one big, multi-carat diamond. So far, so good.
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