Before
Conan O'Brien's recent Chicago visit, Sarah Mandel of
Schaumburg's Classic-Chassis got a call from NBC.
"They had found my Web site and wanted me to provide
a 70s car for Conan and Mr. T. to tool around Chicago
in for the week," said Mandel whose company provides
or arranges upscale transportation for events. "This
was very exciting to know that my Web site had such high
visibility."
It wasn't the first time show biz has come calling. Mandel's
company Classic-Chassis, at www.classic-chassis.com, began
by providing Rolls-Royce's and Bentleys for weddings.
Mandel started her business after her in-laws Gerry and
Mickey Mandel retired in 1998. "They owned the first
limo service in Schaumburg, Schaumburg Limousine,"
said Mandel. "When [they] retired from the business,
I took over the wedding portion and named it Classic-Chassis."
Since then, Mandel said she's received both surprising
and touching requests.
"I am constantly amazed at the unique ideas people
have for using the cars," she said. "One client
had five 1920s vehicles parked in their venue to lend
atmosphere to a very high-end roaring 20s New Years Eve
Party."
For a recent big-time wrestling event at Allstate Arena,,
Mandel provided a 1940s Cadillac. The car drove into the
arena, arriving with a host of wrestlers dressed as gangsters.
Then there was the suiter who hired a Rolls Royce filled
with roses and champagne to wait outside a restaurant.
He escorted his intended inside the car, and promised
her a life of champagne and roses. The next year, the
man surprised the woman, now his new bride, with the same
Rolls Royce awaiting outside their church.
Even Hollywood has sought her out. Using her connections
with other area classic car providers, Mandel recently
coordinated 70 or so vehicles for an upcoming Warner Brothers'
period film directed by Clint Eastwood, "Flags of
Our Fathers."
I have an affection for all things antique and classic,
especially cars," says Mandel. "The movie, TV
and special event aspect is a pleasant new addition to
a successful business. As long as the business continues
to involve working with classic cars, I will be happy." |
