Book Chat & Tea !

ELGIN - Author and local resident Kathleen York will share anecdotes and details from

her latest book, "Bridal Fashion 1900-1950: The American Wedding Dress," at the annual Afternoon Tea and Dessert Buffet, set for 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 20, at Wesley Methodist Church, 1070 South St. in Elgin.

From homespun to haute couture, the dresses worn by American brides in the first half of the twentieth century had myriad influences.

In "Bridal Fashion 1900-1950," living-history expert Kathleen York takes readers on an elegant journey back in time, marking the changes that economics, popular culture, and even politics have made to style over the years. Enjoy this lavishly illustrated tour of an era that saw the average wedding evolve from a simple affair for a few family members into a dazzling, and often expensive, gala for hundreds of guests.

Kathleen York is a living-history specialist who has been researching, writing, illustrating, publishing, and marketing books about historical clothing since 1980.

In addition to York talking about the book and bridal fashion during the first half of the last century, the program will feature a fashion show of bridal dresses from the era.

Musical entertainment includes the W.U.M.C. String Orchestra with director Nereyda Sanchestio and The Unity Gospel Singers from First Baptist Church of Elgin.

The public event will include a free-will offering for the UMW Missions, which includes local and World Mission outreach.

Any larger groups (eight to 10 people), please call the church at 847.742.7256 in advance for reservations.