Meet the 826 Girls
Suzi
Boutique Owner/Buyer
Suzi Mijailovic started her love of fashion at a young age. Playing with clothes, mix and matching patterns and driving her mom crazy because she needed the perfect shoes to complete her look. She attended the International Academy of Design & Technology majoring in Fashion Design. She soon learned that sewing was not what she enjoyed most about the fashion industry and focused on the business side. She joined the Weddings 826 team in 2003 and found her niche. Taking ownership in 2005 and making Weddings 826 into the unique and renowned bridal boutique in the heart of Lincoln Park it is today. For her own wedding, Suzi decided to elope with her husband Mike. They are now parents to their adorable little man, Theo!
Kristina
Boutique Manager/Buyer
Why did you choose Weddings 826?
I loved the vibe of the shop. I don't like to be a pushy sales person, I just want to give everyone a great experience and help them to find their perfect dress. Weddings 826 lets me do that!
Where do you want to travel to next?
Paris, Amsterdam, Greece, Bali.... The list goes on.
Favorite place in Chicago:
Anywhere by the lake
Kayla
Alterations Manager/Bridal Stylist
What do you love most about Weddings 826?
The calming atmosphere and unique dress styles are very alluring! I also love the fun team dynamic!
What made you move to Chicago?
I moved here from a tiny man made Island at the tip of Upper Michigan to Illinois to attend college.
Favorite place in Chicago:
My favorite place in Chicago is any beach on Lake Michigan! I love swimming and collecting beach glass with friends.
Dani
Bridal Stylist
What do you like most about working in bridal?
Getting to meet so many unique individuals, hearing about their love stories, and assisting them in finding the gown that best represents them on their wedding day!
What do you like to do when you're not at Weddings 826?:
Taking my dog to the park and enjoying a nice meal with my fiance!
Favorite place in Chicago:
Chicago Riverwalk
Celia
Bridal Stylist
What interests you about bridal?
I've always loved weddings and especially wedding dresses! Even though I am not married myself, I've been known to peruse a bridal magazine or 2 every now and then. Plus, it's really awesome to see the look on a client’s face when they’ve put on something that makes them feel really special. For me, that’s what it’s all about!
What is your favorite movie?:
I’m a cinephile and watch hundreds of movies a year! It’s nearly impossible for me to choose just one favorite. My favorite romantic comedy, however, is definitely Sleepless in Seattle.
Favorite place in Chicago:
My favorite place is probably Olive Park, or really anywhere on the lakefront!
Summer
Shop Dog/Greeter
What do you love most about Weddings 826?
I love making brides feel welcome and happy when they come into the shop!
Where is your happy place?
Anywhere that I can watch squirrels
Favorite place in Chicago:
Montrose dog beach! :)
Danika
Part-time Bridal Stylist
What is your favorite aspect of the bridal industry?
I love watching all the aspects of the wedding-planning process come together on the Big Day! From the venue to the decor to the dress, it’s always amazing to see a couple’s style and personalities shine through.
What TV shows are you currently into?
I have so many favorite TV shows-probably too many! I just finished Big Little Lies, and I’m so sad it’s over. I also love The Good Place, Yellowstone, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Insecure, The Handmaid’s Tale, the list goes on!
Favorite place in Chicago:
My favorite place in Chicago has to be Millennium Park. I love going to the free concerts and movies in the park in the summer and ice skating in the winter!