Inside the Life of Ali Phillips, Engaging Events

Last year I began this series asking some of my favorite people in this industry to give us a window into their personal worlds. Recently I chatted with Ali Phillips one of Chicago's top wedding planners. I met Ali at Engage several years ago. Her personality is warm and generous, her work beautiful and her energy for work and life is infectious. I think you'll feel the same way when you get to know her! But first, get to know a little more about her work ...

Above three photos by Becky Hill Photography

Photo by Glen Abog

How would you describe your home?
Traditional. Chinese rugs, hunting prints and furniture from my grandparents' home. It's funny to admit, I have still not decided on chairs for our dining room table so we have 10 fruitwood chiavaris permanently rented from Classic Party Rental.

What is your favorite object and why?
We have a gorgeous photo of the wine country that hangs over the fireplace. It was the first piece of artwork we bought together as husband and wife.


What's your favorite time of day?
Early morning. I love to brew some Jamaican Mountain coffee, login and see what the day may have in store for me. Mornings bring potential and that feeling of being alive with possibilities.

Do you have a lucky shirt or something you wear when you are going to a meeting?
No need for luck. I always bring my A-game and go from there!

How would you describe your fashion style?
Preppy! If it is pink, I love it. Rarely will you see me in heels; cute flats are my shoe of choice.
What's your favorite meal after a long event?
Oh lord, I am embarrassed to say this, but I'll play. After a really long day, one where I might not have the time to eat dinner, I have gotten in the habit of stopping at the 24-hour Wendy's on the way home for a spicy chicken sandwich and a big Sprite. (Note to self: This will NOT happen with my New Year's resolutions! Right!)

Favorite beverage?
Red wine. Specifically I love Pinot Noir from the Hartford Family. But when push comes to shove, any red wine will do (I even drink Merlot)!

What is the one thing you'd like to accomplish in life, big or small?
I have always dreamed of being on the cover of a magazine. Not sure which one, but one where I am recognized as a woman of much success and happiness!!


What sport teams are near and dear to you?
I'm a Chicago Cubs fan through and through! No, we have not won a World Series since 1908. But there is nothing like attending a game at Wrigley Field on a hot, summer's day!


Where did you most recently go on holiday?
We always seem to be planning our next adventure. The last one was to Napa, Sonoma and Russian River Valley. We go there every other year at least. Our next stop is Costa Rica for 10 days. My husband and I will go with my father, my Aunt and one of my best friends.

What would surprise us to learn about you?
That I danced ballet until I was in college and almost majored in it. I studied the Cecchetti method which was quite strict and reached one of the highest examination levels before I realized you can't eat Wendy's sandwiches and be a ballerina!

What have you learned most from your father?
Always ask for the sale or order. Never be afraid to do so. Those that don't, miss out.

And from your mother?
Be yourself!! Oh, and also, when you have a dinner party, always have assigned seating so that you know people will get along and have things to talk about.


What is in your fridge at all times?
This sounds so cliche, but it's no joke -- there is ALWAYS a bottle of chilled champagne! You just never know when there is a reason to celebrate. And my motto is: "Celebrate often!" There is always at least one can of cold Bud Light!

A parting shot ... I love this image -- it IS Chicago after all!

More About Ali
Ali Phillips is Chief Wedding Orchestrator of Engaging Events by Ali. Chicago magazine has named her one of the city's top Chicago wedding planners and the editor of Brides magazine has selected Ali as one of the city's favorite planners. She has also been named Best Wedding Consultant in Chicago by The Knot Magazine multiple times. Ali is the president of the Chicago Chapter of Wish Upon a Wedding and is a member of Wedding Industry Professionals Association (WIPA). She is a Certified Professional Bridal Consultant with the Association of Bridal Consultants and a sought-after industry speaker.

Ali will be speaking on destination wedding at the Event Solutions Idea Factory, February 26 - 29, 2012, in Las Vegas.