Category Archives: Gay Marriage
From Chicago to Mexico…
OFFICIAL FILM TRAILER RELEASED for “EN ALGUN LUGAR”
The official video trailer has been released by Iconoclast for the motion picture “En Algun Lugar” (A Place to Be), which stars Nelson Rodriguez (Pride Films and Plays, Easy Abby) as Abel, and Andrew Saenz (Chicago PD, Sirens) as Diego, and written and directed by award winning filmmaker Tadeo Garcia (On the Downlow, Under Covers).
“En Algun Lugar” follows the relationship between Abel & Diego, from Chicago to Mexico.
When tragedy strikes and Diego’s undocumented immigration status is revealed, their love and sacrifice is put to the test through uncertain times that will affect their relationship. Set against the foundation of a broken U.S. immigration system, “En Algun Lugar” sheds light on the mantra of love overcomes all and love knows no borders.
Alongside Nelson Rodriguez and Andrew Saenz the cast includes Jessie Prez as Braulio, Ian Tranberg as Stephen, Sandra Marquez as Lilly, Charin Alvarez as Rita and Erica Cruz Hernandez as Carolina. Other cast include J.J. Romero, Caitlin Jackson, Blaine Thomas Childers, Enrique Guzman, Juan Martinez, Artemio Gonzalez, Carolyn Hoerdemann, Mickey O’Sullivan, Nick Mikula, Zach Livingston, Will Clinger, Diego Sanchez, Michael J. Sanow, Ayssette Munoz, Chris Acevedo, Matt Nikkila, Carmen Cenko, Daniel Hansen, Cole Reed, Frank Menolascino, Davon Suttles, Jon Jackson, Alex Knoll, Mike Hynek, Richard Cotovsky, Rudy Galvan, Diego Colon, Lane Flores, Cole McMillan and Caitlin Boho.
Tadeo Garcia’s provocative and intimate tale of love and fear of the unknown comes to life in a never before seen cinematic perspective produced by Aric S. Jackson (www.aricjackson.com) and Michael J. Sanow (Under Covers, Blood Brothers). Featuring the people, culture, dynamic geography and architecture of both Jalpa, Zacatecas; MEX and Chicago, Illinois; USA, the wonder of Tadeo Garcia’s story has captivated those involved both in front and behind the camera. The producers stress this would not be possible without the talents of cinematographer Charlie Garcia, production designer Pablo Ponce, casting director Stephanie Diaz, costume designer Freddy Rocha, makeup artists Lilien Harvey and Ruby Ortiz, and music from Los Pecados and The Pinto Bean.
The producers of the film also announce the release of “behind-the-scenes” photos and video clips via the film’s official website at www.enalgunlugarmovie.com and its social media profiles (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram) showing the cast and crew during the production of “En Algun Lugar.”
En Algun Lugar aims for a mid-2017 release.
The new trailer can be viewed at www.enalgunlugarmovie.com/trailer .
Chicago Gay Pride Prom May 21
Northalsted Business Alliance Aims to
Make Prom Proud with May 21 Event
As prom season approaches, The Northalsted Business Alliance announces a right of passage redux in the form of Pride Prom: A Chance to Rewrite History, set for May 21, 2016.
As part of the newly formed collaboration with The Legacy Project, NBA invites revelers to enjoy an unforgettable evening of entertainment and celebration in the heart of Boystown. The elaborate set-up will include an expansive outdoor tent on Waveland, between Halsted and Broadway. 350 Guests will savor light fare by featured neighborhood restaurants, beverages (?) and dancing 7-10pm.
Early bird tickets are available for $100 thru April 21 at www.northalsted.com. ($150 after April 21).
Christopher Barrett Politan, Executive Director of the Northalsted Business Alliance, describes what the night means for the neighborhood.
“For many in the LGBTQ community prom was a less than welcoming environment to express gender identity or sexual orientation. Our Pride Prom gives everyone the chance to rewrite their prom experience. Furthermore, we are thrilled that Alderman James Cappleman and his husband Richard Thale will serve as Honorary Co-Chairs of the evening”
The event marks the first joint initiative for The Northalsted Business Alliance and The Legacy Project, which recently announced their collaborative agreement to advance Boystown cultural programming, business efforts and tourism plans.
Curled, styled, tanned, waxed and painted, neighborhood businesses are joining in the celebration by offering Prom goers discounts at their establishments leading up to, during, and after the event. Couples can expect to get VIP treatment at salons, a personal stylist at fashion boutiques, and amazing dining specials before the dance. Afterwards, local bars and nightclubs are offering specials and line privileges at their establishments. Attendees are encouraged to stay the evening at neighborhood hotels to continue the fun the next morning with Boystown’s infamous Sunday Funday complete with bottomless brunches and all-day entertainment.
Victor Salvo, the Founder and Executive of The Legacy Project, expresses his enthusiasm for Pride Prom.
“I cannot think of a better event to kick-off our collaboration with NBA. As we look back at our history, while also embracing our future, Pride Prom is an historic event and one we look forward to celebrating across generations.”
Chicago Jeweler Gregg Helfer
The clock is ticking! Just a few days till Hanukkah and a couple weeks till Christmas! Is your shopping done? Gregg Helfer Jewelers located in downtown Chicago, has lots of things that sparkle to make your holidays bright! Maybe you are planning a wedding for 2016? It’s not too early to look at rings.
The Helfer family has been importing diamonds and making jewelry for three generations starting with Gregg’s Grandfather David Helfer. A proud supporter of the gay community for many years, in 2000, after working in the jewelry industry on his own for over 12 years, Gregg continued the family tradition by opening a private office in the historic Maller’s building on Chicago’s Jewelers Row.
Gregg and his brother Michael work with clients to find the perfect product at the perfect price for them. Outstanding customer service and great prices make Gregg Helfer Jewelers the go-to jewelers, for all of your wants and needs. Whether you’re an experienced online shopper, or need some additional assistance with custom design or special order, we’re confident you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for. They are available six days a week to help you find the piece of jewelry of your dreams.
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5 S. Wabash, 17th Floor
Chicago, IL 60603 -
312-265-3364
Day of Wedding Coordinator
NEW CHICAGO-LAND WEDDING BUSINESS
Business booms in Chicago’s NW suburbs, where Rev Pam announces the expansion of her already successful wedding chapel business, which she operates out of her home. The sister business will be called Day-of Coordinator for Weddings & Social Events, and will be overseen by Rev Pam. The business will reach out through the Chicagoland area to assist couples who have planned their own weddings and need day-of management during the wedding and reception, while the couple is obviously “busy”.
Rev Pam will also make her custom florist services available, making most of the bridal bouquets and bridal party flowers herself.
The new website:http://Day-
The expansion of her wedding business to include the new company’s day-of coordination services seemed like a natural progression from the wedding planning and day-off coordination she already has done for years in her home, Pine Manor Chicago Weddings. “It’s time I shared my experience and discount wedding partners outside my Pine Manor clientele.
Rev Pam has made strategics partnerships with what she feels are the best wedding vendors in Chicagoloand. Discounts are available to her couples for everything to complete their wedding planning like, venue for up to 300 people, brides maid dresses, bridal gowns and accessories, sweets table, wedding rings, cake, photography, video, live violin, dinner / after party location, overnight stay, even wedding dress restoration. Couple’s can go down the list and plan their entire wedding from this one page.
Over the past 30 years, Rev Pam has seen it all. A certified wedding officiant, and retired Chicago advertising producer, Pam Magnuson plans and manages day-of for hundreds of weddings, and social events every year. She comes highly recommended with dozens upon dozens of 5 Star reviews and has won awards for her service and attention to detail. She’s quick on her feet, and without even a mention to the couple, any hiccup will be managed and solved. It’s this the kind of person you want to implement the plans you have worked so hard on? The public is invited to RSVP a tour time to meet Rev Pam and see her home, Pine Manor. Couples can RSVP by calling 847-873-7463
Pine Manor Walk-through event Sunday, December 6th
Couples interested in holding their ceremony at PineManorChicago.com or contracting The Rev for day-of coordination can schedule a walk through at the manor and meet Rev Pam. Once a month she holds a special “walk through day” Scheduled for Thursday, December 6th, 2015 8-8pm. This special event includes delicious baked goods from her wedding cake partner CentralContinentalBake
847-873-Pine (7463)
Get Pampered at SPOIL ME Salon and Spa
Hair and Spa Services @
SPOIL ME SALON in Uptown.
Every couple deserves to look beautiful and feel confident on the most important and memorable day of their lives. There is no better place to pamper yourself than at Spoil Me Salon and Spa in Uptown at 4668 N. Broadway.
Whether some needed pampering for a couple or whole wedding party, Spoil Me offers a wide array of services in a very relaxing environment.
Esthetics, nails, massage, hair and make-up application, that will help you feel and look your very best.
They work with only professional, top of the line products to assure you quality service.
EXPERIENCE and quality is what they offer and deliver. With over 20 years experience following and setting contemporary trends in hair, skin and nails. Specialty services include everything from manicures and pedicures to massage and facials. Their creative and innovative team of stylists are experts with all hair textures and their staff is trained with extensions and hair straightening as well.
“We have grooms come in for pre-pampering and have manicures and facials, sort of a boys night out, “explains owner Adel, “We have brides come a couple times before the ceremony, some try different hairstyles, some want make-up for the big day, we can do it all.”
It’s nice to have a plan leading up to the big day. Here are some suggestions to think about….
These wedding preparation tips break down the pre-wedding planning to help you organize what needs to be done and when during the planning process.
6-8 weeks out: Have facial services and consult with your hair and makeup artist. It’s good to do a trial, ask questions and perhaps get inspired for your look.
2 weeks before: Put your mind and body at ease with a massage. Mention this website at get a 20% discount on any massages in the month before the big day!
Week of: Consider facial services or waxing with your pedicure and manicure service.
Day of: on site hair and make up services available. RELAX and ENJOY your big day, knowing you look great!
Engagement party, anniversary, weddings and special occasions are their specialty!
Call them today for a free consultation! 773-564-9483
4668 N. Broadway (Btwn Leland and Clifton) Chicago 60640
Many satisfied clients and stellar reviews on YELP!
Gay Wedding Chicago WINNER Brett Zelecik
In March Rainbow Wedding Network held their
7th annual Gay and Lesbian wedding expo at the
Hard Rock Hotel in Chicago Illinois. Hundreds of couples flooded the show and one lucky winner got a wedding package worth $2,800 from Gay Wedding Chicago Site, Pine Manor.
CONGRATULATIONS TO
Dr Travis Schamber & Brett Zelencik,
both of Edgewater Beach /Chicago Illinois.
(Pictured: Brett with Rev. Pam)
Travis is an internist, currently working in Park Ridge.
Brett works on the north side of Chicago as a psychotherapist.
They met on Match.com, truly falling in love during their first date in September 2013. “We really have been inseparable ever since!” Brett writes, Travis moved from Schaumburg to Chicago in 2014 and we built a wonderful home together in Edgewater Beach.” Brett says he is very emotionally driven and Travis is highly analytical, likely a function of the training for their carriers, and found they complement each other in every way. The couple are planning a winter wedding.
Plan your wedding with Rev. Pam and Pine Manor!
LOVE IS LOVE Valentines Gala
THE MIDWEST’S LARGEST LGBT GALA and FUNDRAISER
SUPPORTS THE WORK OF EQUALITY ILLINOIS
Saturday, February 14, 2015
Hilton Chicago Hotel, 720 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago
6 PM – Cocktails and Silent Auction
8 PM – Dinner and Program
10 PM – Dancing till Midnight
TICKETS
Get your ticket to join us at the Equality Illinois 2015 Gala.
TABLE COMMITMENTS
Purchase or captain a table; host a platinum, premier, or standard table of 10.
CORPORATE SPONSORSHIPS
Learn how your business can reach over 50,000 LGBT and LGBT-friendly households through supporting the Gala.
DONATIONS FOR LUXURY SILENT AUCTION
Travel, entertainment, sports and fitness, dining and artwork donations welcomed.
PROGRAM BOOK ADVERTISING
Seen by 1,400 gala attendees, including leading political figures.
GALA CO-CHAIRS ARE MARITERESE AND PATRICK BALTHROP
The Balthrops are major supporters of organizations such as Equality Illinois that fight for the LGBT community.
TRANSLIFE CENTER OF CHICAGO HOUSE TO BE HONORED AT GALA
The TransLife Center demonstrates remarkable vision, courage, and leadership.
Chicago Gay Adoptions
If you are interested in expanding your family through adoption and have questions about how to get started, we are here for you! Join us at “Growing Your Family: A Guide for Prospective LGBT Adoptive Parents,” an Equality Illinois presentation co-hosted by the Cradle on Tuesday, January 13, from 5:30-7PM. You can sign up for this event here.
At this event, we will cover an overview of adoption law and answer your legal and procedural questions about adoption in a safe and friendly environment. In addition, you will receive the new Equality Illinois adoption guide, which includes an extensive list of recommended adoption agencies.
Space is limited. Register today by clicking HERE.
Charming Gay Weddings in Chicagoland
The holidays are upon us, but if you recently proposed to your mate or got proposed to, you may be thinking about your wedding for 2015!
While some couples prefer the big city weddings, others prefer to get away and do something charming and quaint!
Relax and feel at home while you say your vows in front of the charming fireplace or in the beautiful backyard garden of historic Pine Manor, private home of Illinois Wedding Officiant Rev. Pamela.
This unique wedding venue offers an intimate, home elegance perfect for a small guest list of up to 30, or a private elopement to Chicagoland’s Northwest suburbs. A Cook County Courthouse wedding alternative for quick ceremonies and a small event venue, the home features a 1920’s flair with honeymoon suite, home cooked catering and wedding packages for every budget. Chicago Wedding Minster, Rev. Pamela will perform your ceremony in a magical way that will touch your soul and inspire your future together.
The Van Jean Sears Honor Bilt Homes: 1928
PINE MANOR
The Van Jean is an unusually well arranged Dutch Colonial house. It has many special features not generally found in houses of this price. It has a charming entrance that gives an atmosphere of welcome. It has Colonial windows with divided lights above and one light below. Add to this the white siding and contrasting red or green roof with the red brick chimney and you have a home that is sure to charm the most critical.
This small wedding venue Chicago is a beautiful alternative to a typical wedding venue and wedding budget. Rev. Pamela offers discount wedding packages that include everything; customized ceremony, delicious home cooked catering, flowers, cake and the honeymoon suite. Unique Wedding Venue Illinois.
You and your guests will immediately fall in love with this quaint in-home venue. Get married next to the romantic brick fireplace or outside in the garden. You will truly feel relaxed so you can be completely present to give your heart, and experience every moment of your special day together.
A wedding ceremony experience with an ole time quality found at no other. Give Rev. Pamela a call to discuss your event today! 847-873-7463 between 8am-8pm CST chicago.
LIKE Gay Weddings on Facebook for extra specials!
Gay Weddings Chicago Illinois site
2015 LGBT WEDDING EXPO!
Hard Rock Hotel Chicago (Driving Directions)
230 North Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60601 FREE TICKETS
Need Rings?
Rated THE BEST! By BestGayChicago.com!
Wisconsin and Indiana Get Marriage Equality
Our nearby states celebrated a win last night, as a judge struck down marriage equality bans in both INDIANA and WISCONSIN!
Only nine days after hearing arguments in the case, a federal appeals court in Chicago declared the bans on same-sex marriage in Indiana and Wisconsin to be unconstitutional on Thursday, adding to the list of marriage cases that could wind up before the Supreme Court in the year ahead.
“The grounds advanced by Indiana and Wisconsin for their discriminatory policies are not only conjectural; they are totally implausible,” said the unanimous opinion by a three-judge panel of the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, as it confirmed lower-court decisions that reversed marriage restrictions in the two states.
In each case so far, the rulings to permit same-sex marriages have been temporarily stayed, pending action by the Supreme Court, and the same appeared likely for Indiana and Wisconsin.
George Takei: “TO BE TAKEI” in Chicago
CHICAGO THEATRICAL PREMIERE!
ONE WEEK ONLY!
TO BE TAKEI
As Sulu on TV’s Star Trek, he boldly went where no man had gone before, and now, George Takei is on a new mission. Years after becoming one of the first Asian-American actors to appear on primetime television, Takei is the subject of Jennifer Kroot’s documentary, which follows the actor and his husband, Brad, who are the poster couple for marriage equality, as they fight for and promote rights for everyone. As a child forced into Japanese-American internment camps, the actor-turned-activist reveals the ways that racism affected him well into his early acting career, where he played stereotypical Asian stock characters in film and television shows.
But To Be Takei also explores George Takei as the social media icon and after leading the starship Enterprise, he now guides over five million Facebook fans in his rally for equality. Firmly believing homosexuality to be an “orientation” (as opposed to a “lifestyle”) in his civil rights advocacy, Takei graces cyberspace with his quirky humor and abundance of heart, in his signature voice. To Be Takei is a funny and moving film about how a beloved actor has taken advantage of his celebrity to fight for the liberty and love that matters to so many of us. George Takei’s sharp eye, coupled with his wicked sense of humor, continues to challenge the status quo well into the 21st century.
Directed by Jennifer Kroot, U.S.A., 2014, 90 mins.
SHOWTIMES
Fri., Aug. 29 at 7 & 9 pm
Sat., Aug. 30 at 3, 5, 7 & 9 pm
Sun., Aug. 31 at 1, 3, 5 & 7 pm
Mon.-Thurs., Sept. 1-4 at 7 & 9 pm
Selecting Wedding Rings with Gregg Helfer Jewelers
The Helfer family has been importing diamonds and making jewelry for three generations starting with Gregg’s Grandfather David Helfer. David opened his first wholesale office in downtown Chicago in 1933.
With over seven decades of family experience now behind them, Gregg and Michael carry on their family’s belief that all clients deserve one on one service in a pressure free, personalized, professional, and private environment.
Their website provides a great Education section. Where you can learn about the different gemstones, cuts and quality ratings as well as information about different metals.
If you have an idea, Gregg Helfer Jewelers can work with you on creating a unique custom design.
The Gregg Helfer Ltd.
Policy On Conflict Diamonds
Along with the global diamond industry, Gregg Helfer Ltd. has a zero-tolerance policy toward conflict diamonds. Through measures such as the Kimberley Process, which tracks diamonds from mine to market, the industry in partnership with the United Nations, governments, and non-governmental organizations, polices diamond exports to prevent the trade of illegal diamonds.
We only purchase diamonds through the largest and most respected suppliers who, like us, proudly adhere to and enforce the standards established by the Kimberley Process. All of our diamonds are warrantied to be conflict free. If one of our suppliers was ever found to be in violation of that process, we would immediately sever that relationship. We will continue to support and promote any process that works to uphold legitimacy in the diamond trade.
Diamonds are mined throughout the world, including major mines in Australia, Africa, Russia and Canada. Diamonds are a major source of good in many African nations, employing and providing healthcare to thousands.
Greg Helfer Ltd Private Jeweler. 312-920-0970
Plaintiffs in Illinois Marriage Equality Case Wed After 51 Years Together!
Patrick Bova and Jim Darby, the plaintiffs in the Illinois marriage equality case, wed today after the law took effect across the state yesterday.
Bova and Darby have been together for 51 years!
Congrations Guys!
Gay Marriage Takes Full Effect Today in Illinois!
Even though it’s Sunday, many county offices are OPEN today for those who want to get their marriage license!
For today, June 1st, 2014, Marriage Equality is in full effect and legal in Illinois!
Gay and lesbian couples across Illinois can now legally wed as the state becomes the latest in the nation to allow same-sex marriage.
Sunday’s celebration is anticlimactic for some, because 16 counties began issuing marriage licenses following a February federal court ruling.
June 1 marks the first day all of Illinois’ 102 counties can issue the licenses to same-sex couples. It’s also the first day couples statewide who have civil unions can ask to convert those to a marriage.
There’s no official number on how many couples have wed so far under the law Gov. Pat Quinn signed in November. But Equality Illinois, a gay-rights advocacy group, estimates about 1,300 same-sex licenses have been issued.
Bernard Cherkasov is the group’s CEO. He calls Sunday “a history-making day in Illinois.”
Our Big Queer Latina/o Wedding June 1st
In less than two weeks, couples all over the state of Illinois will be able to marry, regardless of gender. To celebrate this triumph and to kick-off the 5th annual United Latino Pride Week, United Latino Pride (ULP) and Lambda Legal, in conjunction with various other community partners and businesses, will hold a large wedding ceremony and celebration.
“We decided to throw a big wedding open to the community because this victory didn’t happen solely thanks to politicians,” says Lalo Aguayo, ULP co-chair. “It happened because of the countless hours our colleagues at all the major LGBTQQIA and Latina/o organizations spent speaking directly to our leaders in Springfield. It happened because our families and friends engaged in conversations with their peers. This is how we won marriage equality. Hearts and minds are changed one conversation at a time. It only makes sense to celebrate this victory the way Latina/os do: as a family.”
According to organizers, whereas mainstream US society weddings are seen as a private affair, in much of Latin America and in Latina/o communities in the United States, weddings are a communal event.
“Our Big Queer Latina/o Wedding will reflect our culture and how we show happiness. When someone gets married it isn’t just about the two families, it’s about everyone in the community! We invite neighbors and distant cousins, and all the people in our lives that we call uncles, aunts, and cousins, even if they’re not really related,” Aguayo says.
With music, food, and drinks, ULP organizers hope to make this momentous occasion one to remember for the couples getting married and for rest of community witnessing that love and commitment.
“This will be a day for all of us to remember. It is a historic moment in Illinois and an important step towards our vision of a world where the pluralities of our identities as LGBTQQIA Latina/os are not only acknowledged but celebrated as well.”
United Latino Pride’s Big Queer Latino/a Wedding will take place on June 1st, 2014 at the Chicago Urban Arts Society.
For more information and to reserve free tickets visit www.unitedlatinopride.org
Center on Halsted and MINI of Chicago present Biggest MINI Wedding Ever
Center on Halsted has teamed up with MINI of Chicago to present the Biggest MINI Wedding Ever. This celebration to kick off pride month and celebrate the passage of marriage equality in Illinois will provide two couples with an all expenses paid wedding on the evening of May 31st into June 1st .
The passage of the Religious Freedom and Marriage Equality Act this past fall allows all of the benefits of marriage to be extended to same-sex couples. “Marriage Equality is a huge step forward for the LGBTQ community,” says Modesto Tico Valle, CEO at Center on Halsted.
“This event offers us a chance to kick off Pride Month, celebrate marriage equality, and show the community what these new benefits look like.”
Enter in person by visiting Center on Halsted – 3656 N Halsted – MINI of Chicago – 1111 W Diversey – or online at biggestminiwedding.com. All couples have to do is tell their story and why they deserve to win an all expenses paid wedding.
Sponsors include Sound Production Lighting LLC, e. melone, Robin Subar Lifestyle Photography, Thompson Chicago, Center on Halsted, Circuit Mom, Real Urban Barbecue, WCPT, Windy City Times, MillerCoors, MINI of Chicago, Roeser’s Bakery, OUT Chicago, Service is Us, Jan Dee Custom Jewelry, Miller Fortune.
Please visit biggestminiwedding.com for rules and regulations.
Out of State Couples Coming to Illinois for Same Sex Marriages
SAME SEX MARRIAGE is Officially Legal in Illinois and many neighboring states are going to be running here to be married.
Why are they doing this? Even if their state will not recognize a marriage from another state, the Federal Government WILL.
No one is breaking any laws because same-sex marriage is legal here. The couple just need to know how their state will treat them when they get home, each state is different, but on a federal level, they are married.
“Based on number’s of last year same-sex couples doing civil unions, I would say my business has increased 50% from out-of-state same-sex couples. Also, keeping in mind everyone was waiting for Illinois marriage equality, this is year is going to be a huge rise in numbers” said Rev. Pamela who handles a lot of LGBT weddings and services in Arlington Heights at the Charming Pine Manor – or she can come to you.
There are lots of lawsuits all over the country right now involving states that currently do not recognize gay marriage. As of 3-15-2014:
Wisconsin has been challenged;
Tennessee is being ordered, temporarily, to recognize out-of-state gay marriages;
Kentucky is trying to get out of recognizing gay marriages;
Indiana is being challenged;
Michigan has not decided yet;
Ohio is still being challenged – unless you die!
Judges around the country are striking down same sex marriage bans!
Big Free Gay Wedding – Wedding Expo
Finally Forever:
A Wedding Expo
Now that marriage equality has come to the land of Lincoln, your GL Chamber wants to make sure that the public has access to the businesses that can make their big day a complete success.
To celebrate the passing of Marriage Equality in Illinois the Chicago Area Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce is giving away a Wedding Treasure Chest worth more than $10,000!
All entries are to submit a video about what marriage equality means to them and why they deserve $10,000 in products and services toward their BIG GAY WEDDING! All entries must be via video submissions and made through Facebook http://on.fb.me/1kwnvwg
The Chamber will be announcing the winner at their very first gay friendly Wedding Expo on March 9th, 2014.
“We have waited, and fought and prayed for this day for so long. We can’t wait to celebrate with the LGBT community and the businesses who are out there making a difference for equality of all forms. Within the community it is crucial to spend your money with gay business owners and allies. At the end of the day we all know that money is power, and if we want to empower the community it’s time to empower the small businesses that have been pushing money into it for so long.” says Christina Pinson, President and CEO of the CAGLCC.
Finally Forever: A Wedding Expo 3179 N Clark, 2nd floor
BREAKING NEWS! Illinois Gay Marriage STARTS TODAY!
A federal judge ruled today that gay couples will not have to wait until June to marry.
Gay couples in Cook County won’t have to wait until June to marry, under a ruling today by a federal judge in Chicago that scraps the delayed effective date of Illinois’ same sex marriage law.
“There is no reason to delay further when no opposition has been presented to this Court and committed gay and lesbian couples have already suffered from the denial of their fundamental right to marry,” U.S. District Judge Sharon Johnson Coleman stated.
read more! http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/chi-judge-same-sex-couples-can-marry-now-in-cook-county-20140221,0,381862.story
