Molise PR - Chicago Public Relations & Social Media Blog

Brides, Bubbles & Bliss Bridal Soiree Where Luxury Meets Avant-Garde

Catering, Charitable Causes, Special Events, Uncategorized No Responses »

Feb 202012

Brides, Bubbles & Bliss photo by Carasco Photography

Molise PR is proud to be working with Carasco Photography in collaboration with Michelle Durpetti Events and Loudbyte Cinematography to present Brides Bubbles & Bliss on Wednesday, March 7 from 6 – 9 p.m. at Bridgeport Art Center Skyline Loft (1200 W. 35th, Chicago); hosted by the most recent winner of CBS TV’s Emmy Award-winning show The Amazing Race and Chicago bride-to-be Cindy Chiang.

Now in its third year, Brides, Bubbles and Bliss evolved out of Carasco Photography’s vision of bringing together a provocative medley of top wedding vendors and art-driven brides and grooms for an avant-garde bridal soiree- in stark contrast to traditional wedding expos.

Guests will enjoy wine by Cream Wine Company, cuisine by Boutique Bites, cake by Tipsy Cake and sweets by Truffle Truffle styled and displayed by Sugar Chic Designs. A fashion show featuring gowns from Ultimate Bride include 2012 styles by premier designers Carolina Herrera, Jenny Packham, Junko Yoshioka, Kenneth Pool, Lela Rose, Marchesa, Monique Lhuillier, Oscar de la Renta, Peter Langner & Ulla Maija. Gowns by Chicago designer Alice Padrul of Alice Padrul Bridal Couture will also grace the catwalk. Nicholas Joseph will provide fetching custom menswear looks.

The evening will feature a visual feast of creative vignettes and 2012 wedding trends with featured vendors and sponsors including: floral designs by Topiarius; music by Style Matters DJs; Automated Lighting Design; venue management by Venues 312; beauty by The Bridal Team; invitations by Erickson Design; entertainment by ChicagoLiveMusic.com; Foodie Registry; Shutterbooth; runway makeup by FACTOR; Hall’s Rental and more.

Tickets are $20 for general admission or wedding industry professionals or $45 for VIP, which includes a reserved runway seat. Bridal tickets are $35 and include a lux tote bag and one raffle entry for “An Evening in Chicago” package; or $65 for Bridal VIP, which also includes a reserved runway seat. Other pricing packages are available for groups. A portion of proceeds will benefit Hephzibah Children’s Association and its mission of providing safety and care to children who are abused or neglected.

Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.bridesbubblesandbliss.com. For more information call 312.988.9900. V.I.P. Valet will provide complimentary valet service.

Chicago Opera Theater Presents The 2012 Annual Gala "A Celebration Less Ordinary”

Charitable Causes, Special Events, Uncategorized No Responses »

Feb 062012

Sylvia McNair - Photograph by Rhonda Ely

Molise PR and thrilled to be working with Chicago Opera Theater as they host the 38th Anniversary Gala: A Celebration Less Ordinary at Carnivale (702 West Fulton) on Sunday, March 11th.

The 2012 Gala Committee, led by COT Board Members and Gala Co-Chairs Dorothy Osborn Walton and Robert E. Shapiro, will honor General Director Brian Dickie on his final season with COT and inaugurate The Brian Dickie Outstanding Young Singer Award.

Chicago Opera Theater is also proud to announce that two-time Grammy Award Winner and regional Emmy Winner Sylvia McNair will serve as the Master of Ceremonies and perform exclusively for guests.

Listen to Sylvia’s beautiful rendition of West Side Story‘s “Somewhere” below.

Guests of this less-than-ordinary Gala will enjoy a behind the scenes peek into the world of Chicago Opera Theater filled with Latin-inspired bites and beats from Carnivale; a pulse-raising live auction; a tribute performance by COT performers; and live music provided by Fig Media.

The opera will sizzle at Carnivale from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tickets range in price from $100 Gala Reception for Young Professionals to $2,500 Benefactor Sponsorship which includes four gala tickets, name recognition, cocktail reception, gala dinner, access to the silent auction and the special performance. To purchase tickets or make a donation visit www.chicagooperatheater.org.

Chicago's Original Steakhouse Gene & Georgetti: The Film

Gene & Georgetti No Responses »

Feb 052012

Molise PR had the privilege of working with Chicago’s top event planner Michelle Durpetti Events on the film premiere for client Gene & Georgetti. Vince Gerasole from CBS 2 Chicago stopped by the restaurant to discuss the film.

Over 300 guests gathered at Park West for the private party to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of Chicago’s original steakhouse. The spectacular evening served as the premiere of a documentary film produced by Loudbyte Cinematography. The film featured memories as told by Gene & Georgetti staff, family members and loyal regulars including Rich Melman of Lettuce Entertain You, Robert Hatoff of Allen Brothers, Phil Stefani, and Dominic DiFrisco. Never-before heard stories included tales of celebrity guests Lucille Ball and her Mame premiere party; Joe DiMaggio and his heartfelt requests related to Marilyn Monroe; and Frank Sinatra who became close personal friends with the restaurant’s founder Gene Michelotti and his wife Ida.

The film was commissioned by- and the event was produced by- Chicago-based event and wedding planning firm Michelle Durpetti Events.
Michelle Durpetti, whose parents Tony and Marion Durpetti are second generation owners of Gene & Georgetti, also surprised her parents on stage with a 43rd Anniversary cake, custom-created by Tipsy Cake, and lit up with sparklers. Phil Stefani Signature Events served as catering partner while Sugar Chic Designs hosted a delectable “movie concession stand” filled with themed sweets and Garrett Popcorn. After the film, Sway Chicago performed a Big Band-style set followed by a dazzling, live theatrical number by Zzazz Productions. To the dancing crowds’ delight, a confetti cannon blast signaled the last hour of the evening as DJ music by Fig Media kicked of the evening’s grand finale. Other event partners included Carasco Photography, floral arrangements by Exquisite Designs, invitations and event printing by Erickson Design, and staging and lighting by Automated Lighting Design.

Check out photos from the party from Your Trendy Magazine.

Score Your Super Bowl Carry-Out Grub at Real Urban Barbecue

Real Urban Barbecue, Special Events, Uncategorized No Responses »

Feb 032012

Real Urban Barbecue is ready for Super Bowl Sunday

Molise PR client Real Urban Barbecue knows how to satisfy big appetites for a Big Game. RUB has served protein-packed BBQ favorites to the entire Chicago Bears team and other sports stars, and they now offer carry-out packages for your own big day on Super BowlSunday, February 5.

Check out this fantastic segment with Real Urban Barbecue’s owner Jeff Shapiro:

Souper Bowl soups by the gallon are Chicken Gumbo, $35; or Brisket Chili, $42.

Hail Mary, Pass the Party Platter, includes: BBQ Nachos include a choice of burnt ends, pulled pork, pulled chicken or chopped brisket topped with BBQ sauce, nacho cheese and jalapenos, $18 or $36; 4-Meat Combo Platter includes pulled pork, pulled chicken, chopped brisket, sliced smoked sausage, mini buns and sauce, $60 for 30 minis, $120 for 60 minis; Baby Back or St. Louis Rib trays cut in two-piece servings, $38 for 12-serving, $76 for 24-serving.

Appetizer selections are Popcorn Shrimp with Boom Boom Sauce, $12 per lb; ABTs, mini-franks in a jalapeno, wrapped in bacon, $15 per dozen; Smoked Wings, $8 per dozen; Chicken Fingers, $15 per dozen; Caprese Skewers $20 per dozen; Jalapeno Cream Cheese Poppers, $12 per dozen.

Sidelined sides priced by the half or full pan include Smoked Baked Beans, $25 or $50; Golden Corn Bake, $25 or $50; Homestyle Mac & Cheese, $33 or $66; Cole Slaw, $22 or $44; Dill Potato Salad, $22 or $44; or Tater Tots, $8 or $16.

Fans will also enjoy a Brisket Chili Bar, $4 per person; Taco Bar, $6 per person (of $7 per person for the Tilapia Fish Taco Bar); and Mashed Potato Bar, $3 per person; featuring all the toppings (carry-out only, minimum of 10 people.)

Orders must be made 48 hours in advance by calling 224.770.4BBQ (4227).

Imerman Angels 1-on-1 Cancer Support on Living Healthy Chicago, WGN TV

Charitable Causes, health, healthy living, imerman angels No Responses »

Jan 202012

As I’ve mentioned in a previous post, I’ve had the privilege of serving as publicist for Imerman Angels 1-on-1 cancer support organization since before its official inception. In fact, I was working at the Detroit Free Press when we first ran a story on Jonny Imerman in 2004; and that’s when my love affair with his mission first blossomed.

Many people here in Chicago would say that Jonny is the most effervescent, charismatic person in all of Chicagoland, and I would have to agree. He and I recently had the privilege to work with someone who very much matches his level of compassion and contagious energy – Jane Monzures.

Check out her compelling story on WGN TV’s Living Healthy Chicago. Jane is truly an “Angel” for helping us share our mission and help reach Cancer Fighters, Cancer Survivors and Cancer Caregivers.

Just for old time’s sake, here’s a clip from the Chicago Sun Times in 2006. We were kids! -Michelle Molise

Chicago Auto Show's First Look for Charity

Charitable Causes, Chicago Auto Show, First Look for Charity, garrett popcorn shops, Real Urban Barbecue, Special Events, Uncategorized No Responses »

Jan 162012

First Look for Charity

The Chicago Auto Show‘s First Look for Charity returns to McCormick Place on Thursday, February 9 from 630 – 10:30 p.m.

The First Look for Charity black-tie gala has generated more than $32 million for charities since its inception in 1992. This year, 18 significant Chicago area charities will benefit form the $2 million expected to be raised.

The soiree provides thousands of guests an elegant, inaugural look at the annual Chicago Auto Show, which will boast more than 1,00 new vehicles – dozens on display for the first time anywhere. Those is attendance will also have a chance to win two new vehicles: a 2012 Cadillac Escalade and a 2012 Cadillac SRX, both compliments of your Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana Cadillac Dealers.

Rock Band Blues Traveler will enliven the show floor, as singer/ John Popper Leads the quintet known for its extended jamming style in performances.

A coordinated feast will be themed around a global celebration of the world’s greatest annual food and spirits traditions. Partners include Garrett Popcorn Shops, Real Urban Barbecue, David Burke’s Primehouse, Wildfire, Catered by Design, Texas de Brazil, and Gordon Biersch. Beverages provided by Spaten, Belvedere Vodka, Trinchero Family Estates, Chandon, Antique Coffee and Pepsi.

Tickets for First Look for Charity are $250 and tuxedo attire is mandatory. For More information, including the complete list of charities and to purchase tickets, visit www.FirstLookForCharity.org

Beverly Hills' Favorite Housewife Taylor Armstrong to Host Enclave New Year's Eve Party

Enclave, Holidays, Uncategorized No Responses »

Dec 272011

Beverly Hills' Favorite Housewife Taylor Armstrong

Molise PR client Enclave, Chicago’s premiere nightclub for celeb-spotting, will roll out the red carpet for their Hollywood-inspired New Year’s Eve party, Everyone’s Famous on Saturday, December 31 hosted by Beverly Hills’ favorite housewife Taylor Armstrong.

Enclave will bring a taste of 90210 to this star-studded soiree as Ms. Armstrong works the red carpet to interview arriving guests about their latest projects, who they’re wearing, and all the industry gossip.

In the past year alone, Enclave has played host to some of the nation’s most famous celebrity gusts, including Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson. The acclaimed nightspot made international headlines for hosting Charlie Sheen during his Torpedo of Truth Tour. In 2011 they have also played host to musician Kesha; a star of the hit TV series Glee, Mark Sailing; Jersey Shore’s Vinny and DJ Pauly D; Lil Jon; Dwayne Wade, Sasha Grey from HBO’s Entourage and many more.

Now it is time for guests to perfect their own best pose, as Enclave turns Everyone Famous –transforming each partygoer into a Hollywood stud or starlet for their 2011 New Year’s Eve celebration.

The evening is sponsored by Ciroc, specialty cocktails and hors d’oeuvres made by Chicago’s most upscale chefs will be served, and guests will receive a complimentary swag bag and chance to win a trip for two to Hollywood.

All tickets include super premium open bar, Champagne and appetizer buffet from 9 p.m. – 1:30 a.m. Table reservations recommended.

Tickets start at $95 and will increase as New Year’s Eve approaches.

For more information and to purchase tickets visit www.EnclaveChicago.com/nye/ or call (312) 654-0234. Enclave doors open at 9 p.m.

Cozy Up With Lawry's The Prime Rib This Holiday Season

holidays, Lawry's The Prime Rib, Special Events No Responses »

Nov 212011

Lawry's The Prime Rib Holiday Carolers

Molise PR client Lawry’s The Prime Rib will make spirits bright this season with their renowned holiday festivities.

Just steps from the bustling shopping destination of The Magnificent Mile, and located in the historic McCormick Mansion, Lawry’s presents a holiday full of dining, décor and live entertainment for the entire family to enjoy!

Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol Dinner -Theatre Package – December 4

A Christmas Carol is the beloved theatrical tradition presented by The Goodman Theatre. Lawry’s offers a dinner-theatre package on Sunday, December 4. Dinner begins at Lawry’s at 4 p.m. followed by a 6:30 p.m. curtain at The Goodman Theatre.

Delighting Chicago audiences since the very first production over thirty years ago, the whole family is sure to enjoy this magical evening.

Chocolate in the Mansion and Holiday Sing-A-Long – December 17

Drop those heavy shopping bags, warm up and rest your weary feet. By popular demand, Chocolate in the Mansion and Holiday Sing-A-Long return to Lawry’s on Saturday, December 17 from 2 – 3:30 p.m.

Lawry’s will offer a shoppers’ retreat with a winter wonderland of homemade chocolate-dipped sweets such as pretzels, strawberries, cookies, cobblers and more. Sip on a cup of hot cocoa or cider and sing-a-long with Lawry’s Holiday Carolers to everyone’s favorite holiday tunes.

Strolling Holiday Carolers – December 9 – 24

Do you hear what I hear? Lawry’s brings the sparkling sights and sounds of Christmas this entire holiday season with Strolling Holiday Carolers from Friday, December 9 through Saturday, December 24. Delight in the festive sounds of Victorian Era costumed carolers serenading diners throughout the evening.

Carolers will perform periodically during dinner hours. Ask for times when making reservations.

**Reservations are required for all events and can be made by calling the sales department at Lawry’s The Prime Rib at (312) 787-5000. For more information visit www.lawrysonline.com.

Balani Custom Clothiers Suits Up with Israel Idonije

Uncategorized No Responses »

Nov 152011

Molise PR client Balani Custom Clothiers tackled Chicago Bears defensive end Israel Idonije into a head-to-toe makeover for The Men’s Book Chicago Winter issue.

Check out the article about Balani’s second-generation custom fitting process and the beautiful picture taken downtown at the luxurious InterContinental Chicago.

The “I-Train” has spoken, and he is “ready to handle some business!”

The Men's Book Chicago - Balani Custom Clothiers and Israel Idonije

Enclave Hosts Martin Solveig On Black Wednesday, November 23

Enclave, Uncategorized No Responses »

Nov 142011

Martin Solveig

You’re alright but I’m here darling to enjoy the party…. Known as the biggest party night of the year, Molise PR client Enclave nightclub will host DJ and performer Martin Solveig on Black Wednesday, November 23.

With over 39 million views of his tennis-match-music-video, and over 1.3 million copies of his crossover dance record ‘Hello’ sold, Martin Solveig is one of today’s hottest DJs. Electrifying audiences in every corner of the globe with his trademark sound, he will leave you amped and ‘Ready 2 Go’ just in time for Thanksgiving.

Visit www.enclavechicago.com for general admission tickets starting at $25; and VIP tickets starting at $50 which includes express entry and a cocktail reception from 9 – 10:30 p.m.; or VIP ticket packages starting at $175. For more information and to reserve tables email info@enclavechicago.com or call (312) 654-0234

Garrett Popcorn Shops Announces New, Limited Time Fall Flavor Pumpkin CaramelCrisp

garrett popcorn shops, Halloween, Special Events, Uncategorized No Responses »

Oct 112011

Garrett Popcorn Shops

It’s October! That means falling leaves, jeans and sweatshirts, haunted houses… and National Popcorn Poppin’ Month!

Molise PR client Garrett Popcorn Shops is celebrating their autumnal love this season with a new limited time flavor, Pumpkin CaramelCrisp®!

Pumpkin spices are combined with the irresistible taste of Garrett Popcorn Shops’ famous CaramelCrisp recipe to make this fantastic fall flavor – available online and in select stores through October 31.

Looking for a possible candy bag stuffer in time for trick-or-treating? Be the bell to ring with Pumpkin CaramelCrisp Popcorn Balls, available in stores only throughout October.

There’s no need to toil and trouble over planning goodies for this year’s Halloween parties. Garrett Popcorn Shops offers a spellbinding orange and black signature-striped tin available for purchase in stores and online, filled with your choice of Garrett flavors.

For more information or to order online, visit their new interactive website: www.GarrettPopcorn.com.

Lawry's the Prime Rib Hosts Annual Halloween in the Haunted Mansion

Halloween, Halloween, Lawry's The Prime Rib, Special Events, Uncategorized No Responses »

Oct 102011

Be careful not to spoil your appetite this Halloween. Molise PR client Lawry’s the Prime Rib presents Halloween in the Haunted Mansion – featuring a prix fixe menu and tours of the 1890s McCormick Mansion on Saturday, October 29 and Monday, October 31, 2011.

The evening will feature a dinner menu infused with spook-inspired dishes:

Bloody Eyeball Shooter and Ghoul’s Goulash in a Puff Pastry
Blood Orange Intermezzo
“Special Cut” of 8 oz. Roasted Prime Ribs of Beef, Yorkshire Pudding, Monster Mashed Potatoes and Graveyard Gravy
Choice of Creamed Corn or Creamed Spinach
Dessert of Devilish Food Cake or Creepy Pumpkin Pie
Coffee or tea fresh from the cauldron.

Entrée options also include the chef’s fresh fish or vegetarian dish.

Following this monster of a meal, Lawry’s the Prime Rib will give guided tours of the 1890s McCormick Mansion following dinner every half hour on the hour beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Guests will enjoy a trip through the history of the McCormick Mansion and a possible glimpse of rumored resident, Mrs. McCormick’s Ghost.

Dinner is $51 per guest, plus tax and gratuity. For reservations, guests may call (312) 787-5000, and request the “Lawry’s Halloween Package.” For information visit www.LawrysOnline.com.

Get Ready to “Beat Dat Beat” with Your Boy DJ Pauly D at Enclave

DJ Pauly D, Enclave, Special Events, Uncategorized No Responses »

Oct 032011

DJ Pauly D

It’s Teee-Shirt Tiiiiime!

On Saturday, October 7^th, DJ Pauly D of MTV’s “Jersey Shore” fame is back and ready to Beat Dat Beat at Chicago’s Premiere Nightclub – and Molise PR Client – Enclave!

With his trademark blowout, ear-to-ear smile and one-of-a-kind catchphrases, DJ Pauly D has won over the hearts of America as well as the electronic music scene. Go ahead and get your GTL on and come out to Enclave to party with “your girl’s favorite DJ” and experience the hot and exciting show that the DJ-turned-reality star is famous for.

Unsure if you can handle DJ Pauly D’s entrancing electronic beats from 10 p.m. till 2 a.m.? We’ll help persuade you:

Tickets are $30 and can be purchased at www.enclavechicago.com or at the door while supplies last. Enclave doors open at 10 p.m.

Garrett Popcorn Shops Supports Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Charitable Causes, garrett popcorn shops, health, Special Events No Responses »

Sep 272011

Garrett Signature-Striped Pink Tin

Molise PR client and Chicago favorite Garrett Popcorn Shops is rolling out the pink ribbon in support of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

During the month of October, Garrett Popcorn Shops will donate 10 percent of Garrett signature pink tin sales to Chicago-based A Silver Lining Foundation, a 501c3 non-profit organization that provides access to cost-free mammograms.

Founded by Chicago native and breast cancer survivor Dr. Sandy Goldberg – who you might also recognize as NBC Chicago’s health and nutrition expert – A Silver Lining Foundation’s mission is to ensure dignified, respectful and equal access to quality cancer education and services for all, by creating meaningful partnerships with community, advocacy and healthcare organizations.

Check out the video below for an introduction to A Silver Lining Foundation, with a special appearance from another Molise PR client, Imerman Angels.

The Garrett signature-striped pink tin is available for purchase in stores and online, filled with your choice of traditional Garrett flavors like CaramelCrisp^®(which can be selected with almonds, pecans or cashews), CheeseCorn^™, Buttery, Plain and the famous The Chicago Mix - a blend of savory CheeseCorn^™ and rich, sweet CaramelCrisp^®.

Chicago Private Dining Steakhouse Group & Futures Industry Assocation Host Benefit for Food Depository

Uncategorized No Responses »

Sep 272011

The Futures Industry Association’s Futures Cares “Great Chicago Steak Out” fundraiser is set on Wednesday, Oct. 12 with a goal to raise $500,000 for the Greater Chicago Food Depository. For the first time, Molise PR client Lawry’s The Prime Rib will join other members of the Chicago Private Dining Steakhouse Group including Benny’s Chophouse, Mastro’s, Gibson’s, Morton’s, Carmichael’s, Fleming’s, Harry Caray’s, Ruth’s Chris and David Burke’s Primehouse to provide all of the food for this private event, which draws attendees from the Futures Industry Association Expo.

The Private Dining Steakhouse Group was founded in March of 2004 by Kelly McGrath, who currently serves as the Events Director at Mastro’s Steakhouse, with the support of Lynette Valez of Gibson’s Steakhouse and consists of the top steakhouses in the downtown Chicago area that also offer private dining. What makes this group original is that clientele and information is shared amongst the competition and used to improve guests’ overall dining experience. If a steakhouse can not accommodate a guest, that person can be referred to the group who will then contact the guest if they have availability. This often proves convenient for the busy corporate planner or an out-of-town individual who may not be familiar with area restaurants.

The Greater Chicago Food Depository, Chicago’s food bank, is a nonprofit food distribution and training center providing food for hungry people while striving to end hunger in our community. The Food Depository distributes donated and purchased food through a network of 650 pantries, soup kitchens and shelters to 678,000 adults and children in Cook County every year. Last year, the Food Depository distributed 69 million pounds of nonperishable food and fresh produce, dairy products and meat, the equivalent of 140,000 meals every day. The Food Depository’s programs and services for children, older adults and the unemployed and underemployed address the root causes of hunger. For more information, log onto http://chicagosfoodbank.org or call 773-247-FOOD.

This fundraiser arrives at a critical time for the Food Depository, which is serving 59 percent more individuals at pantries versus three years ago.

Older Entries

Brides, Bubbles & Bliss Bridal Soiree Where Luxury Meets Avant-Garde

Chicago Opera Theater Presents The 2012 Annual Gala "A Celebration Less Ordinary”

Chicago's Original Steakhouse Gene & Georgetti: The Film

Score Your Super Bowl Carry-Out Grub at Real Urban Barbecue

Imerman Angels 1-on-1 Cancer Support on Living Healthy Chicago, WGN TV

Chicago Auto Show's First Look for Charity

Beverly Hills' Favorite Housewife Taylor Armstrong to Host Enclave New Year's Eve Party

Cozy Up With Lawry's The Prime Rib This Holiday Season

Balani Custom Clothiers Suits Up with Israel Idonije

Enclave Hosts Martin Solveig On Black Wednesday, November 23

Garrett Popcorn Shops Announces New, Limited Time Fall Flavor Pumpkin CaramelCrisp

Lawry's the Prime Rib Hosts Annual Halloween in the Haunted Mansion

Get Ready to “Beat Dat Beat” with Your Boy DJ Pauly D at Enclave

Garrett Popcorn Shops Supports Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Chicago Private Dining Steakhouse Group & Futures Industry Assocation Host Benefit for Food Depository

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