Kindling…one might wonder why this name was chosen. After all, it is most often referred to as small pieces of wood that start a fire. But in broader terms, it is referred to as “easily ignited” material.
“Easily ignited…”, well, that was truly this team.
You see, owners Diane Emery, Susie Chrostoski and Crystal Lukens - have been working together for many years, creating beautiful weddings and events.
It all started when Susie and Crystal started their own business five years ago as “I Do & I Do Two – Wedding Events and Ideas.” Started as a part-time venture while continuing with their careers in other professions, it soon became apparent that this growing business needed a full-time effort and other people on board to help with the blazing demand. Their efforts had sparked a flame that was moving fast.
About that time, Crystal’s childhood friend Diane Emery moved back to Southern Illinois and she was quickly recruited to assist their many events. From Paducah, Kentucky to Vandalia, Illinois, these girls have taken their creative streak and talent to create unbelievable events. Truly, with a passion and genuine desire to make each event not only a positive experience for everyone, but to far exceed the customer’s expectations, Crystal, Susie and Diane have sometimes worked all night in order to produce events that are guaranteed to make an impact.
And when you do work like that, it spreads like wildfire.
To add to that, what’s ironic is that all three women are “closet gourmet” cooks. Cooking and baking was simply something that the girls not only enjoyed, but they excelled at, and it was another creative outlet for them.
So naturally, when doing florals and décor for events, they would sometimes be asked, “Do you also cater?” Well, eventually the women said, “sure” and home kitchens or rented commercial kitchens were used, and unique recipes went from the family table to the next big event. Word began to circulate about their extraordinary food and its presentation and the catering portion of their business began to take fire.
Outgrowing the kitchens and work rooms of their homes, the team searched for a building to start their own business. The now beautiful log cabin venue on Rt. 13 in Carterville was the perfect spot for this dynamic team. Aside from a good location and many logical assets, ironically, the natural beauty of the wood of this building reminded them all of what was ignited a few years ago…an incredible passion and creativity for producing unique experiences…was all it took to get their business from their homes to here.
So, come by and visit. Pick up a bottle of wine to take home, give to a friend, or enjoy on our patio. Think of us when you need beautiful floral arrangements or catering for events – big and small. We will always be glad to have you and you are sure to enjoy the warmth of Kindling.
