Cover Story
The Wedding Issue 2026
More than 40% of engagements in the U.S. occur between Thanksgiving andValentine’s Day, so this is the time of year many couples are startingto plan their weddings. We talked to area business owners involved inthe wedding industry to find out the latest trends. Couples are focusingon more personalized details and experiences to engage their guests,rather…
31,875 households: The reality of ALICE in our community
ALICE stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed – but behind that acronym are real people you probably see every day. They’re the teacher at your child’s day care center, the aide who cares for your aging parent, the cashier who rings up your groceries, and the server who brings your coffee. They work full-time…
State seeks revenue streams
As I write this, Gov. JB Pritzker is preparing to give his annual budget address. It’s an unenviable task. Earlier this month, the Governor’s Office of Management and Budget released a report showing federal tax cuts caused a $587 million reduction in state revenues this fiscal year. The governor announced last month that he was…
Desperation drives Crime 101 characters, Good Luck is whiplash-inducing ride
Exceptional Crime a study of desperation Though it is being touted as an action film, Bart Layton’s gripping Crime 101 actually consists of multiple character studies, examining three people who’ve each come to a crossroads in their lives. Captivating and smart, the film benefits from exceptional work from its three veteran leads and old-school pacing,…
This year’s wedding trends
Festive, fun or formal — this year’s weddings can be as personal as the couple’s imagination. Local experts share this year’s trends. Regan Duffy offers wedding planning and day-of coordinating. Often, brides have already made their selections by the time they hire Duffy to make sure their special day goes according to plan. So, Duffy…
Bring out the beauty within
Though I was married in the aughts, I have a few vivid memories of my wedding weekend. In particular, I remember being in a salon in Philadelphia with my mom, my bridesmaids, my future mother-in-law, and my partner’s sister, grandmother and cousins. We had joined together early in the day for mimosas and bagels, and…
Intentionality, not tradition
The defining theme of weddings in 2026 isn’t centered around opulent decor or celebrity-inspired fashion. This season, intentionality is at the forefront. Couples are disregarding traditional expectations and taking the reins to craft ceremonies that are deeply personal, authentic and true to them. “It’s all about minimalism these days,” said Renee Rothschild, an event…
Find the perfect place to get married
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum The ALPLM offers venues for wedding ceremonies and wedding receptions, including the three-story atrium in the library. The museum plaza, the building’s magnificent rotunda, makes a spectacular backdrop for receptions, with a replica White House and a log cabin. Couples can even be introduced from the White House. Couples…
Wedding caterers
Arena Food Service, Inc. Since 1985, Arena Food Service has provided chef-driven catering services for events of more than 25 guests. Arena catering offers a wide range of menu options and styles to fulfill the needs of your unique event. With a wide range of ancillary services such as linen and china rental, table, chair…
Make your own crêpes
Equally well suited to a romantic night in or a Champagne-infused Galentine’s brunch, crêpes are a sophisticated yet playful choice that can be served any time of day, from breakfast all the way to dinner. Made from a simple egg and milk batter, this French culinary classic dates back to 13th century Brittany where they…
Weekend music cram
My goodness, there’s a lot going on this weekend and I’m just talking about days of significance for now without getting to the music. We have a Friday the 13th, Valentine’s Day on Saturday, then a President’s Day federal holiday on Monday. Sunday could be the Ides of February or President’s Day Eve or Post-Valentine’s…
Editors note 2/12/26
Once a month Springfield welcomes the world. At 7 p.m. Feb. 19, the World Affairs Council of Central Illinois hosts Reyna Torres Mendivil, consul general of Mexico in Chicago, for a free program open to the public at Illini Country Club. A big part of the job of a regional consul general is to be…
Letter From My Dad to Brother
Dear Craig, your application received. We can find work you’ll certainly enjoy.Lester could use help, he starts at 4AMand seldom finishes till after 2. Ourmen use to deliver 300 quarts a day.Now up to 600 with every other daydelivery. Your schedule would bestrenuous, 4AM, 7 days a week. Itisn’t as bad as it sounds, but if…
Letters to the editor 2/12/26
We welcome letters. Please include your full name, address and telephone number. We edit all letters. Send them to editor@illinoistimes.com. NOT JUSTICE I rent space from Chelsey Farley at her small business, The Soul Shoppe. I stayed to keep the shop open for her on Jan. 30 so she wouldn’t lose business while she attended…
