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." |
