Essence Suites Blog

Romantic Resolutions

Fri, 04 Jan 2019 19:17:00 GMT

A new year is the perfect chance to make small changes in your life that will make you happier, healthier, and maybe even a little wealthier. A big part of our lives is love so why not make that one of your new years resolutions. There are so many ways to improve your relationship such so take a look at this list and see what inspires you.

Winter Time Romance Activities

Thu, 06 Dec 2018 18:39:00 GMT

Just because we are starting to feel the winter coming doesn’t mean there isn’t still plenty of romantic activities to do. In fact some things we can only experience in the holidays season and wintertime. So bundle up, grab your partner and find some wintertime activities.

Take a trip to the zoo

What can be a better sight than adorable animals and breathtaking lights? Lincoln Park Zoo and Brookfield Zoo both show off their holidays spirit with festive lights and activities. At Lincoln Park Zoo you can see view from above by taking the ferris wheel for a ride. Brookfield Zoo has the largest light festival with over one 1 million sparkling lights. Plus see dozens of uniquely decorated Christmas trees by local schools and businesses.

Horses drawn carriage ride

There’s something magical about carriage rides in the winter as any movie has it shown. Recreate your own movie magic ride by climbing into a cozy carriage and hiding under a warm blanket with your loved one while exploring the city from a new perspective. This will be sure to be a unique romantic experience to remember.

Ice skating

So many choices for outdoor rinks are popping up with the cold weather approaching. Going to the rink at Millennium Park downtown is a given but did you know Orland Park has one as well? Outdoor rinks are going to be opening up soon and many offer free entrance as long as you have a pair of skates. Don’t worry about not having your own pair of skates as most will have rentals available.

Sledding

Swallow Cliff is known for its giant sledding hill. After taking a few slides down warm up by the fireplace in the pavilion at the bottom of the hill. If you’re not feeling quite up for the big hill yet you can find smaller hills in the forest preserve across the street Pioneer Woods to practice on before heading to Swallow Cliff.

Stroll down the Magnificent Mile

Grab a hot chocolate to keep you warm while wandering down North Michigan Avenue and seeing the festive storefronts. You probably want to take a walk when you don’t plan on shopping so you don’t need to worry about enjoying yourself while hauling around gifts. Feel free to stop by to buy some treats along the way at Dylan’s Candy Bar or Ghirardelli’s to split a sundae.

Walk in a nature preserve

If you want to get away and feel like it’s just the two of you a nature preserve is the perfect place to go. Walk down a snowy path and take in the beauty of snow and ice sculpting the world around you. This is a perfect place to clear your mind from the busy holiday season and have meaningful conversation with your loved one.

Orland Park’s Favorite Restaurants

Thu, 15 Nov 2018 17:00:00 GMT

You don’t need to head into the city to experience unique and delicious dining. Orland Park is home to many culture’s cuisines and there is a wide array of dining experiences to choose from.

Wu’s House Japanese Restaurant

Have dinner and a show with a hibachi grill. Wide variety of appetizers, salads, sushi and sashimi to choose from as well as great specials and combinations. Excellent choice if you are looking for something unique to eat or a not so typical date with the hibachi grill experience. A hibachi grill is a great choice for group date.

Cheesecake Factory

Located right inside Orland Square Mall you can easily take a shopping trip before heading over to dinner at The Cheesecake Factory. They offer a fantastic choice for a full course meal. Appetizers, entrees, unique cocktails and you can’t pass up the cheesecake. Share a decadent dessert with your partner to end the night right.

Papa Joe’s Italian Restaurant

Steps away from Essence Suites! Papa Joe’s serves up amazing pizza, pasta and entrees in a cozy homey setting. Dates aren’t only for the weekends as Papa Joe’s offers a Tuesday special of 2 for 1 pasta which includes soup and salad.

Tradycja Polish Fusion Cuisine

Traditional Polish meals with a new twist. Set in a rustic atmosphere in Tradycja Polish Fusion Cuisine you can feel as if you are sitting in a vintage kitchen. Order a classic Polish dish and receive it styled in a beautiful modern presentation. Some Polish favorites include pierogi, kiszka and sour soup.

Houlihan’s

Houlihan’s has something for everyone. Start off your dining experience by choosing a bar, booth or even patio seat. They are known for standard American comfort foods. Choose from a burger or chicken sandwich, steak and pastas, and much much more. You can’t pass up on the drinks as Houlihan’s crafts up specialty cocktails and beverages.

4 Practical Tips for the Perfect Partner’s Massage

Mon, 14 May 2018 03:15:00 GMT

When most people think couples massages, they imagine side by side massage tables in an expensive establishment or a five-minute shoulder rub in the shower. But a good couples massage can happen right at home and can be far more romantic than a simple shoulder rub. Here are some practical tips for perfecting the at-home couples massage.

1. Set Up the Space

The first step in preparing a romantic massage session is to prepare your space. First, decide where you’d like to host your session. The immediate choice might be the bedroom, but if your room is particularly crowded or cluttered, you might end up choosing a space that is more open. Clutter can sometimes cause anxiety, so choosing a place that isn’t cluttered or messy might make setting the mood easier. Once you’ve settled on a place, start cleaning it up. Make the bed or vacuum the floor, whatever you have to do to get the room prepared and free your mind.

After you’ve cleaned up the space to your satisfaction, start setting the romantic mood. Twinkle lights on the walls are a good option to brighten up the room but keep it soft and sweet. Another option would be to light candles and place them around the room. Preparing music that is sentimental to both of you, such as a song that might have been playing on your first date, is an excellent way to get both you and your partner into a romantic mood for your massage. You could also decorate the room to make it even more special. Framed pictures of you and your partner, some flowers, or decorative pillows are all small but meaningful ways to sweeten the space.

2. Prepare Yourself and Your Partner

Now that your room is ready to go, it’s time to prepare yourself and your partner for your evening. To do this, you should both take showers beforehand so your body is clean. This will also help prevent one of you from being self-conscious about body odor or unshaved body hair. You might even use this opportunity to set up the massage, sort of like a preview, by showering together as a couple. This will give you even more opportunity to touch each other leisurely. When you’re done with your joint shower, you’ll both be feeling tender towards each other and will be well prepared for the massage session.

3. Don’t Neglect The Details

One of the most important parts of the massage is the oil. You don’t want to use lotion during a massage, because your skin will absorb the lotion quickly. You’ll want to make sure you have the oil ready before you sit down to do your massage. If you’re preparing for this evening days in advance, you’ll have time to research which oil you’d like to use and make a store run to grab it. There are many options when it comes to massage oil, and some are even available at a drug store or supermarket. Some are standard oils, but others are designed to have certain effects, such as warming or tingling. Any of these are good options as long as you’re not allergic to any of the ingredients. Other options include high-quality grapeseed oil, sweet almond oil, or jojoba oil. If you’ve decided to do a couples massage in the spur of the moment and don’t have time to run to the store for massage oil, you might already have a few types of oil in your kitchen. Olive oil, coconut oil, and avocado oil all make good substitutes for massage oil. Make sure you have the oil waiting in the massage area so you don’t have to run off to find it when it’s time to start the massage.

There are some other things you might want to take care of before you get started on your session. For example, you might want to consider turning off your phone as well as having your partner turn off theirs. That way you won’t be interrupted. You should also check your thermostat so you don’t have to adjust the temperature, and have a few towels ready as well.

4. Practice Your Technique

Since you’ve done so well preparing beforehand, you’re now ready to begin the actual massage. Many people get a bit too enthusiastic when they first start the massage. They start off too fast, or massage the muscles too deep, or squirt cold oil directly onto their partner’s skin. The first thing you should remember is to go slow. A romantic massage isn’t fast, it’s slow and steady. Start by squirting the oil into your hands and rubbing your palms together to warm it. Your partner will appreciate the extra effort. Next, begin to massage your partner with a light touch. Even if your partner enjoys deep tissue massages, you won’t want to start off that way. The body needs time to adjust. Contour your hands to fit the shape of your partner’s body, and never use your thumbs. Your thumbs apply too much pressure in too small of a space, which can cause pain. Instead, focus your pressure in the palms of your hands or spread it out smoothly throughout your entire hand with long, fluid strokes.

If you want to add the ultimate romantic touch to your massage, schedule a retreat with your significant other at Essence Suites. Call (708) 403-3300 to book your luxury suite, or visit http://www.essencesuites.com .

5 Ideas for a Meaningful Date Night

Sat, 24 Feb 2018 00:47:00 GMT

Scheduling a date night with your spouse or significant other is essential to keeping the romance alive and finding time to connect with one another. Over time, it can be easy for the dates to become routine if there’s a lack of thought or creativity put into the evening. If you want to make your date night unique and memorable, here are a few ideas to shake up your typical date night.

Visit the Place Where You Met

Taking a trip down memory lane will prove to be sentimental when you visit the place where you met or had your first date. You can wear the same or similar outfits to have more of an appreciation for your story and past. Reflect on your history together and discuss everything that you’ve been through and the changes you’ve gone through over the months or years.

Get Pampered

Getting spoiled and pampered together will allow you to bond as a couple and create a new memory. Consider scheduling a couples massage at a local spa where you can relax and unwind in a tranquil setting. You can also get facials or sit in the sauna together, helping you recharge and let go of your stress. Feeling more at ease while spending time together creates a bond and keeps you present in the moment with your significant other.

If you prefer to stay home, consider sharing a bubble bath and snacking on chocolate-covered strawberries as you wash each other from head to toe. Light candles around the tub to set a romantic mood.

Take Dance Classes

It takes two to tango. You can get your adrenaline going with dance classes and learn how to work together to your favorite tunes. You’ll learn how to improve your skills and can spend more time practicing together throughout the week for a fun way of getting more time with one another.

Take a Dinner Cruise

If you’ve tried every date on land, take a dinner cruise together where you can enjoy the views and feel of the ocean. Dinner cruises often involve five-star cuisine with dancing available (practice your new skills!), and you get the bonus of socializing with other couples on a luxurious yacht.

Go Ice Skating

Make it easy to feel young again by going ice skating together. During the winter season, find a local rink that is held outdoors where you can see the skyscrapers overhead or take in the beautiful views of the trees. Spending time outside where you can hold hands and feel the wind in your hair will add romance to your night as you glide on the ice together.

Change up your date night and try some new ideas to make your evening special. With extra thought put into the date, you’ll impress your spouse or significant other and grow more in love. A special night at Essence Suites will show your partner that you’ve been thinking about them and is sure to impress. Book your suite today by calling (708) 403-3300, or visit our website at http://www.essencesuites.com .

4 Quick and Easy Tips for Picking Out the Perfect Couples Costume

Fri, 27 Oct 2017 03:35:00 GMT

Halloween is just around the corner! If you’re still not sure what your costume should be, try a couples costume this year . Here are some quick and easy tips for picking out that perfect couples costume:

1. Choose what fits you best as a couple. If you’re both pretty low maintenance, put together costumes using items already in your closet. If you like to be glitzy and your significant other prefers to be low-key, choose a costume pairing that plays to your personalities.

2. Keep your evening in mind. Can you move around easily in your costume? If not, are you okay with that? Can you do simple things or does your costume make that difficult? Think about where you will be — mostly outdoors or indoors — and how your evening will go. If you’re going to be dancing in a crowd all night, you probably won’t want to pick the Rubik’s Cube costumes this year.

3. Give in to your nostalgia. The ’90s are back. If you’ve been dying to find an excuse to go out decked out in mood rings, neon windbreakers, and platform sneakers, now is your chance. Any pieces you’ve been hoarding for the past 2 decades or more are perfect for your couples costume. And with so many celebrity couples from the ’90s to choose from, you have plenty of inspiration available.

4. Keep it simple. If you don’t feel like going all out with your costumes, just grab some props. If you carry around a couple lightsabers, people will have a pretty good idea of what your costumes are.

5 Enticing Restaurants Near Essence Suites in Orland Park, IL

Tue, 26 Sep 2017 19:13:00 GMT

We’re continuing our series on How to Make the Most Out of Your Stay at Essence Suites . Essence is located in a central area of Orland Park, IL. There are many local attractions and, of course, plenty of restaurants to choose from. If you wish to enjoy a romantic dinner before you cozy in for the night at Essence, here are 5 restaurants in Orland Park that will help make your romantic evening complete.

1. ) Cheesecake Factory – The Cheesecake Factory in Orland Park is a popular choice for a romantic evening. You can choose from indoor seating or, if the weather is right, outdoor seating on the patio. The menu is rich and varied with large selections of appetizers, specialties, burgers, seafood, salads, and, of course, cheesecake and other desserts. They even carry lighter fare for the calorie-conscious. Cheesecake Factory is attached to the Orland Square Mall, so you can enjoy some easy shopping before making your way back to Essence Suites.

2.) Cooper’s Hawk – Currently the only winery in Orland Park, IL, Cooper’s Hawk has a large selection of food and hand-selected wine pairings. From unique appetizers, like the Crispy Crab Beignets, to their savory entrees, like the Maple, Mustard & Pretzel-Crusted Boneless Pork Chop, Cooper’s Hawk is sure to provide you with the food you crave. They even feature a lighter fare menu and gluten-free options. Don’t forget to purchase a bottle of wine to take back to your suite with you.

3.) Papa Joe’s – Papa Joe’s is located right next door to Essence Suites in Orland Park. Proudly serving Italian food for the past 35 years, Papa Joe’s features appetizers, soups, and salads, as well as hearty entrees, such as the Steak Italiano, Shrimp Margarita, and Ravioli Della Casa. Sometimes they will have a pianist playing for that extra romantic touch.

4.) Fuji Japanese Steak House – If Asian fare is more your style, Fuji Japanese Steak House in Orland Park is right up your alley. The restaurant features hibachi cooking, so you can watch your food being cooked right in front of you in a breathtaking display. If you prefer your Asian food raw, you can order sushi and sashimi, and many of the usual Japanese staples are available to order as well.

5.) Granite City – If you enjoy the current brewery trend, Granite City in Orland Park is the place to try. From delicious starters, like the Idaho Nachos and Northern Kobe Beef Sliders, to the burgers, like the Bedda Chedda Bacon Burger, to the sandwiches, like the Pulled Pork Waffle, there’s something for all tastes. And, of course, you can indulge in their signature craft brews, such as vanilla porter, blueberry lager, and whiskey oak-aged Scottish ale.

Make sure you check in with us when you make your reservation to see if we have any current offers for restaurants. Please feel free to ask us about other local restaurants and entertainment. To book your stay, call us at (708) 403-3300 or visit our website at www.essencesuites.com .

Enter to WIN an Overnight Stay at Essence Suites!

Sun, 13 Aug 2017 04:37:00 GMT

WIN a free stay at Essence Suites in Orland Park, IL!

Visit our contest page to be entered to win an overnight stay in one of our suites, as well as complimentary chocolate-covered strawberries!

Contest ends August 31st, and winners will be announced the first week of September. Enter now for your chance to enjoy an exclusive overnight couples getaway!

CLICK HERE to visit our giveaway page!

>>Only one entry per person. Contest ends 11:59 PM CDT on Thursday, August 31, 2017. Winner will be contacted and announced the first week of September 2017. If winner does not accept the prize within a week of being contacted, a new winner will be chosen. This contest is not sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, or any other corporation or third party. Entrants must be 21 years or older as of date of entry. By entering, you agree to the rules and will hold harmless and indemnify Essence Suites and its contributors for any loss, damage, or legal liability associated with your use of the rules. By entering, you give us your permission to use your image in relation to Essence Suites and for commercial purposes. Purchase does not enhance chance of winning. Void where prohibited. Other rules and restrictions may apply.

16 Fun Discussion Questions to Ask your Significant Other

Fri, 21 Jul 2017 14:48:00 GMT

For many couples, staying at Essence Suites is a way of rekindling the fire in their relationship. We’re offering a short series on How to Make the Most Out of Your Stay at Essence Suites . In this post, we’re covering one of the basics of staying intimate with your significant other: communication. Here are 16 questions you can take turns asking each other during your date night as a fun way to communicate and reopen the doors of intimacy.

To book your date-night with Essence Suites, give us a call at (708) 403-3300, or visit our website at www.essencesuites.com .

Father’s Day Special – $25 Papa Joe’s Gift Card with Any Room Booked!

Tue, 13 Jun 2017 06:00:00 GMT

Father’s Day is coming soon, and we’d like to help you celebrate. Now through Sunday, June 18th, if you book any room with us, you’ll receive a $25 gift card to Papa Joe’s Italian Restaurant! Papa Joe’s is right next door to Essence Suites, so you can easily dine in or have your food delivered to your suite. Make sure you mention the promo code when you book with us in order to receive this special perk! Call us now to book your stay at (708) 403-3300.
Offer expires at 11:59 PM CDT on Sunday, June 18, 2017. No extensions past expiration date. Specials cannot be combined. You must mention the promo code to receive the deal. You need to be 21 years or over to stay at Essence Suites. No other discount coupon or offer can be applied to this special. Membership is required to stay at Essence Suites. Membership fee is $25 a year. Current members with valid ID receive the rate upon proof of membership. Rules and regulations of Essence Suites apply. Some restrictions may apply.