The Urban Girl’s Manifesto The ultimate guide to women‑owned businesses in Chicago, featuring entrepreneurs YOU need to know Third Edition
The Urban Girl’s Manifesto
Melody Biringer
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CRAVE Chicago: The Urban Girl’s Manifesto A publication of The CRAVE Company 1805 12th Ave W #A Seattle WA 98119 206.282.0173 thecravecompany.com Twitter: @CRAVEcompany facebook.com/cravecompany © 2014 The CRAVE Company. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system nor transmitted in any form, by any means—electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise— without prior written permission of the copyright owner. While every effort was made to ensure the accuracy of the information, details are subject to change so please call ahead. Neither The CRAVE Company nor CRAVE Chicago shall be responsible for any consequences arising from the publication or use. All editorial content in this publication is the sole opinion of CRAVE Chicago and our contributing writers. Third Edition October 2014
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The U rban Girl’s Manifesto We CRAVE Community. We believe in acknowledging, celebrating and passionately supporting local businesses. CRAVE is a celebration of women entrepreneurs that showcases creative, interesting and gutsy proprietors. By introducing you to the savvy businesswomen in this guide, we hope that we will help inspire your own inner entrepreneur. We CRAVE Adventure. We encourage you to break your routine, to venture away from your regular haunts, to visit new businesses, to explore all the funky finds and surprising spots that Chicago has to offer. Whether it’s to hunt for a birthday gift, indulge in a spa treatment or connect with like-minded people, let CRAVE Chicago be your guide for a one-of-a-kind hometown adventure. We CRAVE Quality. CRAVE is all about quality products and thoughtful service. We know that a satisfying shopping trip requires more than a simple exchange of money for goods, and that a rejuvenating spa date entails more than a quick clip of the cuticles and a swipe of polish. We know you want to come away feeling uplifted, beautiful, excited, relaxed, relieved and, above all, knowing you got the most bang for your buck. We have scoured the city to find the hidden gems, new hot spots and old standbys, all with one thing in common: they’re the best of the best!
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A Guide to Our Guide CRAVE Chicago is more than a guidebook. It’s a savvy, quality‑of‑lifestyle book devoted entirely to local businesses owned by women. CRAVE Chicago will direct you to some of the best local spots—top boutiques, spas, cafés, stylists, fitness studios and more. And we’ll introduce you to the inspired, dedicated women behind these exceptional enterprises, for whom creativity, quality, innovation and customer service are paramount. Not only is CRAVE Chicago an intelligent guide for those wanting to know what’s happening throughout town, it’s a directory for those who value the contributions that spirited businesswomen make to our region.
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What are your most popular products or services? Professional property management services exclusively for community associations such as condominiums, town-homes and co-ops. What makes your business unique? We understand that the heart of what we do is connected to the heart of our clients. Your home is your haven. We take care of everything else.
Sarah Gullette-Johnson
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Chicago
What do you like best about owning a business? Creating my own path and seeing my vision come to life. Knowing that I have the opportunity to be as successful as I choose to be.
SGJ Property Management, Inc. Chicago, Illinois
Portrait by Amy Boyle Photography
Innovative. Energetic. Professional. SGJ Property Management, Inc., is a Chicago-based community management company breathing new life into the profession. By merging innovative technology and personalized service that you would expect from a locally owned and operating company, they truly live up to their vision statement: Cultivating Home Into Community.
Specialties: Property Management 773.855.2394, sgjpropertymanagementinc.com facebook.com/sgjpropertymanagementinc Twitter: @SGJPropMgmtINC linkedin.com/company/sgj-property-management-inc
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“Clear the clutter so you can hear yourself think, then be sure to listen.” —Sarah Gullette-Johnson, SGJ Property Management, Inc.
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
4 Keys Media LLC Chicago, Illinois
Creative. Innovative. Fun. Today’s consumers want more than a product—they crave active conversation. This business will kick-start that dialogue. 4 Keys Media identifies your target audience and gets the buzz going through innovative campaigns and content that gets mileage. That means retweets and likes. They create memorable videocasts, podcasts and out-of-the-box events that draw on the best social media platforms to get your message out and circulating.
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Chicago
What are your most popular products or services? Blogger outreach, content generation, social strategies, sponsored events, webcasting, speaking, teaching social media and brainstorming. We handle it all: small business projects to big brand-awareness campaigns.
Beth Rosen
How do you measure success? The expression on my client’s face. We do the analytics; success in social media means buzz! It means viral! Key conversation within your prime audience, starting and never stopping. What do you CRAVE? Connection, growth and learning from new experiences and people each day. Being surrounded by people who take pride in each opportunity they find.
Specialties: Marketing, Social Media, Events, Speaking, Video 847.514.6146, 4keysmedia.com Twitter: @BethRosen linkedin.com/in/BethRosen
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Photo by Amy Boyle Photography
“What I like best about owning a business is the ability to try new strategies, go in new directions and stay true to instinct. Taking a project where it needs to go, using innovation, creativity and passion.” —Beth Rosen, 4 Keys Media LLC
Alpine Cleaning Equipment, Inc. Cary, Illinois
Green. Affordable. Innovative. Alpine Cleaning Equipment, Inc., is a unique janitorial supply distribution company. Alpine offers recycled equipment and environmentally friendly chemicals that allow you to clean your home or business while positively contributing to the environment and your health. Alpine is now selling nation-wide through their e-commerce site.
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Chicago
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
Specialty: Cleaning Equipment, Supplies and Chemicals 770 Industrial Dr, Ste E, Cary, 800.341.4840 alpinecleaningequipment.com, Twitter: @rubykular
What inspired you to start your business? I was an HR manager for 6 years, trying to climb the corporate ladder until one day, instead of conducting the layoffs, I was the one getting the boot. I felt betrayed because I had given so much of my life to the organization and in the end it seemed it was all for nothing. This was my biggest inspiration. I wanted to be in full control over my career, finances and achievements.
Ruby Kular
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? Don’t ever procrastinate. If you leave things for tomorrow your today will be a mess. What motivates you on a daily basis? My drive to become better and bigger than my competition. I’m extremely competitive. 19
Photo by Angela Garbot Photography
“I truly believe that it’s been the power of persistence and teamwork that has contributed to our growth and success.” —Ruby Kular, Alpine Cleaning Equipment, Inc.
What motivates you on a daily basis? My clients motivate me. I am so impressed with their eagerness to take control of their health; it’s incredibly rewarding to see people change their lives for the better. How do you relax? It’s important to make time for exercise and physical activity. It helps me to unwind and focus on myself—rather than my business! I love yoga, Pilates and spinning.
Amanda Skrip
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Chicago
What place inspires you? I love visiting markets whenever I travel. I notice the foods that are popular and available in different regions. It fuels me with creativity to write new recipes!
Amanda Skrip, CHHC Chicago, Illinois
Photos by Emily J. Rivera Photography
Approachable. Smart. Fun. Amanda Skrip works with clients to create small shifts that have a big impact on health, weight and energy. She helps people look and feel their best by eating a balanced, natural-foods diet. Amanda Skrip is available for private health coaching, cooking classes, pantry makeovers, grocery tours and chef services.
Specialties: Health and Nutrition Coaching, Chef Services 312.823.5752 amandaskrip.com facebook.com/amandaskrip Twitter: @amandaskrip
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Photo by Emily J. Rivera Photography
“Hone in on what is truly inspiring you to start a business—and remind yourself of it every day! This will keep you going through tough times.” —Amanda Skrip, CHHC
Amy Boyle Photography Chicago, Illinois
Insightful. Engaging. Collaborative. Amy Boyle’s keen artistic vision coupled with her genuine and warm personality allow her to photograph subjects in a way that truly captures their natural essence and is authentic to each of their personal stories. Her inspired photos and ability to easily connect with people of all ages bring a unique depth and beauty that rise from every print to tell a tale.
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Chicago
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography, except lower-right photo by Colin Boyle
Specialty: Photography 312.380.5993, amyboylephotography.com facebook.com/amyboylephoto.graphy Twitter: @amyboylephoto linkedin.com/in/amyboylephoto
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? If you work hard, continue to stay curious and give back to others, you can be successful on so many levels. What motivates you on a daily basis? As a mother of four sons, my family inspires me every day. I feel a great responsibility to demonstrate that “living the dream” isn’t some pie-in-the-sky ideal.
Amy Boyle
How do you relax? Being outdoors, biking, camping, hiking or sailing with my family are my favorite ways to relax. Nature is awe-inspiring, and connecting to the outdoors helps me find focus.
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Photo by Amy Boyle Photography
“I crave growth. Each new project and personal encounter is an opportunity for growth. I am excited and constantly motivated by change.” —Amy Boyle, Amy Boyle Photography
What makes your business unique? I’m not a one-photo-fits-all kind of photographer. Each subject—whether it’s a person, family, food, product, business— is unique and I spend as much time as necessary finding that singularity. How do you relax? I love cycling along the Chicago lakefront, water calms me and I always find beautiful imagery there, too, boosts my creativity. Also love a good book and warm fire.
Angela Garbot
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Chicago
What place inspires you? Italy! My heritage on my mother’s side is from the Italian countryside, and I’ve been lucky enough to visit the little hill town of my ancestors. Very grounding and inspiriting!
Angela Garbot Photography Chicago, Illinois
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography, except lower-left photo by Sebastian Orr Photography
Passionate. Engaging. Experienced. Angela Garbot is a boutique lifestyle photographer, capturing the essence of her subjects, revealing not just what they look like, but who they are. Her warm, open approach creates a fun, welcoming environment for everyone, and her imagery reflects her clever artistic eye, whether she’s photographing a beautiful bride, rambunctious 2-year-old, scrumptious food, busy executive... or captivating countryside.
Specialties: Lifestyle Photography for Personal and Business 773.383.8858, AngelaGarbot.com, Twitter: @PhotosByGarbot facebook.com/AngelaGarbotPhotography, Google+: Angela Garbot linkedin.com/in/AngelaGarbotPhotography
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Photo by Angela Garbot Photography
“Carpe Diem! Every day is a chance to try something new, learn, grow. I strive to get the most out of each new experience to enhance both my professional and personal life.” —Angela Garbot, Angela Garbot Photography
What inspired you to start your business? I fell in love with boudoir photography right away. After I did my own session, I realized that, more than a present of sexy images for a loved one, this is one of the greatest gifts to women: To learn to love and appreciate her body and her beauty. What are your passions? I love being a part of the transformation that each woman experiences through my photography. The experience is something that will mark their lives forever in many different ways, for many different reasons, and I love that.
Argentina Leyva
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Chicago
What do you wish you’d known before starting your business? Nothing. Ignorance is bliss!
Art of Seduction Boudoir Ukranian Village, Chicago
Photos by Art of Seduction Boudoir
Tasteful. Sexy. Elegant. Art of Seduction is an all-female boutique boudoir studio. International photographer Argentina Leyva is one of the most sought after photographers in Chicago and Austin. Her beautiful 4,000 square foot vintage studio features original red wood floors and light-filled rooms. Clients explore their inner goddess as the team creates a customized experience with sensual poses and dramatic makeup.
Specialties: Boudoir, Pinup, Sensual and Nude Photography 2250 W Grand Ave, Chicago, 630.667.4633, By appointment only artofseductionchicago.com, Twitter: @argentinaleyva facebook.com/ArtOfSeductionBoudoirPhotography
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AURA Natural Pet Chicago, Illinois
Holistic. Compassionate. Therapeutic. The goal of AURA Natural Pet is to optimize the lives of Chicagoland pets by providing in‑home canine massage therapy and Reiki to pets of all breeds, ages and physical conditions. AURA Natural Pet also makes all-natural pet care products like essential oils. These therapeutic services promote healing and contribute proven health benefits that complement traditional veterinary care.
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Chicago
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
Specialties: Canine Massage Therapy, Reiki, Energy Work 630.399.0462 auranaturalpet.com facebook.com/AURANaturalPet
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Set goals and always remember to keep a good balance of all things you are passionate about. What do you like best about owning a business? Flexibility in my schedule allows me to work with rescue animals and open my home to foster puppies in need.
Erin Kowalski
What place inspires you? The rescue animals I encounter every day inspire me among other things to forgive often, love unconditionally and to be happy no matter the circumstance. I strive to achieve that daily.
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Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
The Best Career For Me Chicago, Illinois
Purpose-driven. Inspiring. Effective. Althea McIntyre is a seasoned career and executive coach who helps business owners and professionals achieve radical career transformations, such as changing careers, launching new businesses and increasing their incomes doing meaningful work that they love and know they are meant to do. Drawing from her own experience is what makes Althea an ideal career transformation coach. After working for nine years as a CPA, she decided to follow her heart, leave that job and industry, and pursue a new career that fully utilizes her innate talents and skills. Allowing her passion to drive her work, Althea helps her clients thrive in both their personal and professional lives.
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Chicago
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Don’t isolate yourself. Surround yourself with successful business owners. Being in the company and energy of other successful, creative entrepreneurs will pay off in ways you’d never imagine.
Althea McIntyre
What is your motto or theme song? “Go confidently in the direction of your dreams! Live the life you’ve imagined.” —Henry David Thoreau What do you CRAVE? Rich and meaningful relationships, deep belly laughs and new adventures.
Specialties: Career Coaching 847.425.9730, thebestcareerforme.com, Twitter: @AltheaMcIntyre facebook.com/AltheaMcIntyre, linkedin.com/in/altheamcintyre
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What are your most popular products or services? Photos that sparkle: fully art-directed, professionally styled photo shoots. Marketing materials infused with subliminal triggers. Service models speak volumes about you in 30 seconds or less. What inspired you to start your business? I can often see the vision for your image—beyond what you see. I revel in bringing it to life.
Rose Mulroney
What business mistake have you made that you will not repeat? Saying yes when I should have said no. What do you wish you’d known before starting your business? People buy you. Your services are a given.
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Chicago
Black Jade Creative Chicago, Illinois
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
Dynamic. Illuminating. Visual. If it’s true that people engage with and buy from you based on emotion, then what kind of emotional connection are you building with your brand? This company creates emotional branding (identity and marketing materials in print and online) that subliminally triggers your prospect’s buying emotions through the combination of graphic design, copywriting, photography and technical development of your identity and brand.
Specialty: Bringing Emotional Branding to All Your Marketing Materials 773.485.5815, blackjadecreative.com, facebook.com/blackjadecreative Twitter: @blkjadecreative, linkedin.com/in/rosemulroney
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Photo by Angela Garbot Photography
“The islands of Greece inspire me. It is so blue there.” —Rose Mulroney, Black Jade Creative
What are your most popular products or services? Themed events like Masters Monday or Ladies Night with a nude male model! Also, corporate events or baby showers where guests paint a canvas that will compose a larger mural.
Stephanie King-Myers and Nancy Bigley
What makes your business unique? Experiencing art without intimidation (and giving up technology for a moment) while enjoying wine! Our chic, eclectic studios feel like your own living room—it’s social, fun and nurturing. What inspired you to start your business? My best friend lamenting her lack of talent. I taught her to paint while we drank a bottle of wine. She was so happy I thought, “Everyone should do this!”
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Chicago
Bottle & Bottega Lakeview and the South Loop, Chicago
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography, except upper-left photo by Greg Szoda
Social. Fun. Inspiring. Bottle & Bottega is one part artistic adventure, one part cocktail party. Their hands-on BYOB art parties allow even the most artistically challenged to uncork their inner artist and create a masterpiece. It’s no wonder this Chicago original was named “Hottest Franchises for 2013” by USA Today Money. They offer daily public events, private parties (think bachelorette with nude model!), corporate team-building events and fund-raisers.
Specialties: BYOB Wine and Art Parties 2900 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, 773.313.9133 bottleandbottega.com, Twitter: @bottlenbottega facebook.com/BottleBottegaLakeview 1241 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, 773.269.6570 bottleandbottega.com/southloop facebook.com/BottleBottegaSouthLoop
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Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
CanineLink Education and Consulting, Inc. West Loop, Chicago
Collaborative. Professional. Supportive. CanineLink is a ground-breaking business that supports and develops pet professionals through a fantastic offering of classes, seminars and custom consulting services. Their programs and services support individuals and businesses to reach their full potential as it relates to the pet industry.
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Chicago
What inspired you to start your business? Twenty years of wanting more than what already existed for dogs, for people and for my industry at large.
Jamie Damato Migdal
Who is your role model or mentor? The remarkable veterinarian Dr. Yael Cidon. Her love, support and faith have guided me throughout my career. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Create a panel of advisors you trust. Use them. Being an entrepreneur can be lonely; don’t let it be. Create a community around your ideas, passions and goals. What business mistake have you made that you will not repeat? Waiting for permission.
Specialties: Pet Business Consulting, Professional Training 651 W Washington Blvd, Ste 103 LL, Chicago, By appointment only 312.394.9957, caninelink.com, facebook.com/caninelink, Twitter: @caninelink
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What makes your business unique? We place the healing capacity of nature into the hands of our clients through essential oils. Aromatherapy’s impact expands beyond the nose, by tapping into motivations, behaviors and memories. Who is your role model or mentor? Helen Keller, who proclaimed, among many wise statements, “Smell is a potent wizard that transports you across thousands of miles and all the lives you have ever lived.”
Dana Frost
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Take one step each day toward your business goals and intermittently take a time-out on the observation deck to see what your action steps streamed together have created. What do you wish you’d known before starting your business? Starting your own business is a journey riddled with mistakes and mishaps; each one completely redeemable. What is your motto or theme song? Love > Fear How do you relax? I have learned to take 24-hour retreats where I set aside distractions, responsibilities and interruptions and allow myself to let go and deeply relax. It’s a formula for total rejuvenation.
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Chicago
Capim Santo Alchemy Chicago, Illinois
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
Restorative. Rejuvenating. Intuitive. Capim Santo Alchemy creates exotic blends of pure essential oils for aromatherapy purposes. Signature blends are inspired by global trends, client cravings and the collective human experience. Custom blends are individually crafted to resonate with the desired outcomes, dreams and mission of the client. Intuition, spiritual insight and scientific wisdom from the plant world are honored in the creative process.
Specialties: Aromatherapy, Wellness, Healing dana@danafrost.com, capimsantoalchemy.com facebook.com/CapimSantoAlchemy danafrost.com, Twitter: @dana_frost facebook.com/danaholtfrost
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Photo by Amy Boyle Photography
“I enjoy observing my ideas move from an intuitive spark, to notes written in my journal, all the way to becoming reality.” —Dana Frost, Capim Santo Alchemy
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
Chicago Chocolate Tours Chicago, Illinois
Delicious. Entertaining. Informative. Chicago Chocolate Tours provides guided walking and tasting tours of select chocolate shops, bakeries and cafes. You’ll sample the specialties, meet shop owners or artisan chocolatiers and learn about the history and health benefits of chocolate. They also do travel, speaking, consulting, and importing, all in the chocolate space. The team provides tours in Boston, Chicago and Philadelphia.
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Chicago
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Jump in! Begin, and the resources and people you need will follow. I started my business after practicing law. Chocolate was always my passion. You have a gift to share.
Valerie Beck
What do you like best about owning a business? Owning a business lets me live authentically. My business mission is Uplift Through Chocolate: we uplift our customers, our partner stores, our team and our charity partners. Who is your role model or mentor? Louise Hay reminds us that our thoughts create our future and that gratitude and love open doors.
Specialties: Chocolate Walking Tours info@chicagochocolatetours.com chicagochocolatetours.com Twitter: @ChiChocTours facebook.com/chicagochocolatetours
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What inspired you to start your business? I was given the gift of yoga when I was 4, then passed the practice on to my children. The harmony, clarity and pure energy of yoga is life changing. What do you like best about owning a business? I love and honor the opportunity to make a positive impact with my community. My business allows me to channel my energy and follow my vision toward the greater good.
Jen Robertson
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Chicago
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? A friend shared a Zen proverb with me, “Let go or be dragged.” When I find myself in difficult situations I stand in my truth and let the rest go.
Chicago Kids Yoga LLC Chicago, Illinois
Collaborative. Purposeful. Creative. Chicago Kids Yoga LLC hosts events connecting all ages with the power of yoga and meditation (and the guides who can help along the way). They help clients discover their inner marketing guru and educates the community on the benefits of yoga for everyone. Chicago Kids Yoga hosts #ChicagoKidsYogaFest at Garfield Park Conservatory and will be launching kids and family yoga festivals across the country.
Photos by Plehal Photography
Specialties: Events, Marketing, Education 773.960.1623, ChicagoKidsYoga.com facebook.com/ChicagoKidsYoga Twitter: @ChicagoKidsYoga
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City Staffing The Loop, Chicago
Flexible. Committed. Progressive. City Staffing is a WBE and WBENC-certified, woman-owned Chicago staffing firm. They specialize in temporary, temp-to-hire and direct hire positions in the areas of administrative/office, marketing/creative, accounting/finance, CSR and more. Relationship and results-oriented, they are a go-to agency for the Chicagoland area. With over 20 years in the business, City Staffing’s outstanding reputation for connecting talented professionals with fabulous companies in the Chicagoland area has earned them a spot on Inavero’s Best of Staffing™ Client and Talent Lists for consecutive years.
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Chicago
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
Specialties: Staffing and Employment 211 W Wacker Dr, Ste 700, Chicago, 312.346.3400 citystaffing.com, facebook.com/CityStaffing Twitter: @citystaffing, linkedin.com/company/city-staffing
What are your most popular products or services? Filling client staffing needs in the areas of administrative, creative, marketing, accounting, finance and more. What makes your business unique? The personal experience we provide for both our clients and associates.
Daphne Dolan and Ellen Dettling
What place inspires you? Our office! We have decorated it to create an atmosphere that embodies what we stand for: fun, energetic and inspirational. How do you keep balance in your life? By working as a team and encouraging open communication and collaboration.
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Photo by Amy Boyle Photography
“We crave meeting new people!” —Daphne Dolan and Ellen Dettling, City Staffing
What are your most popular products or services? Our flexible membership plans allow people to use the space as much or as little as they need it. Our fully equipped conference room is a highlight for many members.
Angela Valavanis
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Starting a business takes the right combination of passion and patience. Back up your brilliant business idea with a set of reasonable expectations for both short-term and long-term success. What do you CRAVE? I crave connections. I love putting someone in touch with just the right person to help her—or discovering that I have a mutual connection with someone I have just met.
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Chicago
Creative Coworking Evanston, Illinois
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
Collaborative. Convenient. Elegant. Tired of working from home or your local coffee shop? Creative Coworking is a members-only office space for independent or remote workers, conveniently located in the heart of downtown Evanston. It is a quiet, comfortable workplace offering 24/7 access for all members, an art-filled space for hosting meetings or events, and a warm community atmosphere. There’s even a rooftop deck for working outside!
Specialties: Office Space, Event Space, Art Gallery By appointment only: 922 Davis St, Evanston, 847.905.1314 creativecoworking.com, facebook.com/CreativeCoworking Twitter: @CCoworking
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What inspired you to start your business? I love math and found that many people are confused or intimidated by the complexities of mortgages. That combined with tenacity has helped my longevity in this industry. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Never underestimate the sense of pride you receive building something yourself. Every single client comes to you because you created that relationship. Nothing beats that feeling of personal accomplishment.
Barbara Karstrom
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Chicago
What is your motto or theme song? “I Will Survive� by Gloria Gaynor. Since 2008, 75 percent of loan originators have left the industry while I am still surviving the volatility and challenges of the mortgage industry.
Do You Love Your Mortgage? Chicago, Illinois
Experienced. Honest. Tenacious. One application, dozens of lenders. The mortgage options are overwhelming and to navigate the nuances of conventional vs. FHA requires an expert matching clients with the best lender for their current situation. Barbara Karstrom is a mathematician with her MBA combined with years of mortgage experience that gives every customer an extraordinary opportunity to love their mortgage.
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
Specialties: Residential, Refinancing, Purchasing, Investment 312.863.9560 DoYouLoveYourMortgage.com facebook.com/ChicagoMortgageSite Twitter: @BarbaraKarstrom
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Evolving Strategies LLC Chicago, Illinois
Client-focused. Results-driven. Agile. Evolving Strategies LLC is a consulting firm igniting personal, team and organizational performance. Clients include Northern Trust Corporation, United Airlines, Thomson Reuters, the United States federal government, Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Accenture and Zebra Technologies. Specialties include coaching managers to become leaders, guiding teams towards high performance and helping leaders navigate organizational change.
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Chicago
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
Specialty: Helping Leaders and Teams Learn, Adapt and Perform 312.337.8442, evolvingstrategies.com facebook.com/evolvingstrategies Twitter: @smschwan linkedin.com/in/sandyschwan Google+: smschwan
What makes your business unique? To quote a client: “Sandy’s... deep understanding of various leadership styles, business cultures and the different ways people learn and process new information serve to inform the grounded guidance she offers.” What do you like best about owning a business? Flexibility in adapting my business to best serve my clients and my family. What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? It is better to be kind than to be right.
Sandy Schwan
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be clear about how best to align your passions and skills with the business need and gaps in the market. What place inspires you? Walking into any church in the world inspires, energizes and recalibrates. Enjoying blueberry pancakes with my niece Elizabeth on my balcony in Dallas—in February!—inspires me too. How do you keep balance in your life? By putting a few key boundaries in place and sticking to them, no matter what. What do you CRAVE? Living my life’s purpose and helping others live theirs.
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Photo by Amy Boyle Photography
“Believe BIG, and nurture an attitude of gratitude.” —Sandy Schwan, Evolving Strategies LLC
What are your most popular products or services? Video biographies. People want to know their parents’ or grandparents’ stories and family history. Likewise, many seniors want to share their stories, memories and life lessons with their children and grandchildren. What do you like best about owning a business? I love being my own boss and managing my own schedule. It allows me to balance my children’s needs with those of my business without feeling guilty or stressed.
Susan Saunders
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Chicago
What motivates you on a daily basis? Knowing how meaningful these movies are to my families.
Family Line Video, LLC Chicago, Illinois
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
Memorable. Meaningful. Moving. Family Line Video produces video biographies, giving families a way to capture the life story, family history and life lessons of a parent or grandparent in a captivating “moving� portrait. These legacy videos weave an in-depth, sensitively filmed interview with family photos, documents, maps and other memorabilia to bring stories to life, connecting generations on a very personal level. An ideal gift for milestone celebrations.
Specialties: Legacy Videos, Video Biography, Family Documentary 312.402.6406, FamilyLineVideo.com, Twitter: @SusanFamilyDocs linkedin.com/in/susansaundersvideo
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Photo by Angela Garbot Photography
“Listen to the advice of ‘experts,’ but trust your own instincts. They may not always understand your vision, have your best interests in mind or be as smart as they profess to be.” —Susan Saunders, Family Line Video, LLC
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
Fashionista Chicago Chicago, Illinois
Sophisticated. Chic. Stylish. Fashionista Chicago helps local artisans and small-business owners ascend the ranks to department store visibility and promotes their goods and services through multiple web and social media outlets. Fashionista Chicago also spreads the love for national brands by combining local hidden gems with haute couture fashion. Fashionista Chicago helps consumers gain a healthy trendsetting attitude and keep them connected to the hottest style scoop.
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Chicago
What are your most popular products or services? Our most popular services for our clients are the substantial advertising space on our home page and our dedicated email blasts. Our email blasts are geo-targeted for ample views. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Just do it. It may take a lot of time, but it is well worth it.
Nicki Brashear
What motivates you on a daily basis? The cities we cover. Chicago and San Francisco have a wealth of emerging talent waiting for us to uncover.
Specialties: Fashion and Style 773.220,9617, fashionista-chicago.com, facebook.com/FashionistaChicago Twitter: @fashchicago, linkedin.com/in/nbrashear
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FOMO Active Wear Chicago, Illinois
Tailored. Functional. Vivacious. FOMO, which stands for the Fear of Missing Out, stems from a couple of urban athletes who realized there was a lack of options for performance clothing that is tailored to our individual shapes and needs. We aim to provide a community-based active wear brand for real athletes so no one misses out on their personal best because of poor clothing fit and functionality.
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Chicago
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
Specialties: Active Wear Clothing for Real Athletes FOMO Active Wear: 773.351.9834, info@fomoactivewear.com, fomoactivewear.com facebook.com/FomoActiveWear, Twitter: @FOMOActiveWear RowFit Chicago: 773.351.9834, info@rowfitchicago.com, rowfitchicago.com facebook.com/roiwfitchicago, Twitter: @Rowfitchicago
What are your passions? I own a gym that focuses on community and I’m a health coach. My passion is helping people define who they are, build self esteem and reach goals they set. How do you measure success? Being able to live the life I’ve imagined for myself. What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? Don’t focus on the members you don’t have, focus on the ones you do.
Nell Shuttleworth
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? There is no tomorrow, there is only right now. Jump in and do it, because if you don’t, you’re the only one who will regret it. 75
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Enjoy what you do. Always keep in the forefront of your mind why you started your business. Follow your intuition. Reinvent and redesign yourself at every turn. What do you like best about owning a business? I am amazed by the infinite number of ways people can see art through their own perspective. The reward is matching the right piece of art with the right customer.
Cindy Flaherty-Hutchinson
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Chicago
What place inspires you? The Chicago gallery art district. The sheer enormity of the variety of talent by the individual artists. I leave with a sense of awe and inspiration.
FORTUNATE DISCOVERIES Art + Design on Armitage Lincoln Park, Chicago
Photos by Emily J. Rivera Photography
Eclectic. Stimulating. Addicting. Providing a retail outlet for artisans and designers, Fortunate Discoveries is a collection of 30 micro galleries in the heart of Lincoln Park. Artists rent space from Fortunate Discoveries and the business details are taken care of. It is Fortunate Discoveries’s goal to learn the stories behind the artists and their art. They are the artists’ representatives, freeing artists to do what they do best... make art.
Specialties: Art, Fashion, Jewelry 1022 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, 773.472.2220 fortunatediscoveries.com
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What makes your business unique? Our field staff are available on flexible and convenient schedules, so in-home visits can take place at the optimal time for our patients. What inspired you to start your business? I saw an opportunity in the Home Health industry to provide quality care more efficiently.
Monina Canete
What are your passions? I am passionate about being active, whether it’s running or doing yoga on the beach. I love to travel, as well, and try to visit a new place every year. What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? Own your own time! Time is the new currency.
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Chicago
GEM Staffing Chicago, Illinois
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography, except lower‑left photo by Johnny Burbano Photography
Diligent. Thorough. Professional. GEM Staffing provides skilled medical professionals for in-home patient visits. Registered nurses, as well as physical, occupational, and speech therapists, are available to see patients in seven counties around Chicagoland. The staff provide high-quality medical and rehabilitative care in the comfort of your own home, and schedules are flexible to make therapy appointments easy and convenient.
Specialty: Healthcare Staffing GEM Staffing: 877.436.2230 gemstaff.com facebook.com/gemstaffing Twitter: @gemstaffing 1st Call Home Care, Inc.: 773.777.6168 GEM Educational Foundation: 877.436.2216 gemeducation.org facebook.com/gemed.nfp Twitter: @gemeducation
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Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
Gizmo Creative Factory Chicago, Illinois
Smart. Inventive. Spirited. Gizmo Creative Factory strives to partner with every client, from logos and marketing collateral to email marketing, websites and social networking services. With over ten years in business, Gizmo’s focus has always been to find the best way to speak to your audience and build a brand that lasts.
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Chicago
What inspired you to start your business? I wanted to create with the client in mind. What are your passions? I love cycling, exploring a city’s hidden sights, and great food and art. How do you measure success? Happy clients, and the ability to have a great life that I determine. What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? Don’t doubt yourself.
Lisa Ghisolf
What business mistake have you made that you will not repeat? Working for too little. What motivates you on a daily basis? Having a life that I create and enjoy.
Specialties: Graphic Design, Website Creation, Social Media 312.545.9235 gizmocreativefactory.com facebook.com/gizmodesign Twitter: @gizmodesign linkedin.com/in/gizmodesign
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Healthy Jasmine Wellness Chicago, Illinois
Educational. Encouraging. Empowering. Jasmine Jafferali is a lifestyle and wellness consultant and creator of the Snack Smart Solutions app. She helps women by educating and empowering them to make realistic changes to their health and lifestyles. Her snack app takes the guesswork out of what to snack on next—each snack is paired to help balance blood sugars and sustain energy.
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Chicago
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
Specialties: Specialty Diets, Food Allergies, Women’s and Infant Health 630.890.1237, healthyjasmine.com facebook.com/HealthyJasmine Twitter: @HealthyJasmine
What makes your business unique? I keep it real and non‑threatening when helping people make healthy transitions. What inspired you to start your business? It has been a lifelong journey of getting healthy, my own unique struggles with food sensitivities and learning to live less toxic in a toxic world. How do you measure success? When one person says that I’ve changed their life, that is one person that I have impacted, who will in turn impact others.
Jasmine Jafferali
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? When caring for others, make sure you are caring for yourself. When my cup is full, I can pour into others’, especially my family.
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What makes your business unique? Being dual-trained in the specialties of orthodontics and prosthetic dentistry allows me to treat patients with any degree of complexity. We also use cuttingedge technology to provide excellence in orthodontics and enhance patient’s treatment, such as invisalign ®, SureSmile ®, AcceleDent®, iCAT® and iTero ®. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? You can do it! Have a vision, take the risk and make it happen. Select an amazing team to go on the journey with you.
Dr. Manal Ibrahim LaVacca
84
Chicago
What is your motto or theme song? Treat everyone from the heart. Do for them what you would do for your own family. Be motivated by doing the right thing and you will never go wrong.
Innovative Orthodontic Centers Chicago, Naperville and Shorewood
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
Innovative. Compassionate. Fun. Dr. Ibrahim’s passion for orthodontics and her loving approach towards her patients set her apart from the rest. By using invisalign ® and clear braces, she has built a cuttingedge orthodontic practice customizing treatment plans for patients of all ages. She was awarded invisalign’s designation of Elite Top 1% Provider, a status given only to the top one percent of providers in North America. Dr. Ibrahim is an American Board Certified Orthodontist and the only female Top 1% invisalign provider in Illinois. She was also awarded multiple “Best Dentist” awards from the Naperville community.
Specialty: Orthodontics (Braces and invisalign ®) By appointment only: 111 N Wabash Ave, Ste 1820, Chicago 55 S Main St, Ste 251, Naperville 1526 Illinois 59, Shorewood 855.563.3735, OrthoCenters.org facebook.com/InnovativeOrthodonticCenters Twitter: @OrthoCenters
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IntrinsicPartnersabc, Inc.
A division of Intrinsic dm², Inc. Downtown Geneva Savvy. Simplifying. Affordable. Specializing in accounting, bookkeeping, and consulting, IntrinsicPartners has over 25 years of experience in daily money management and payroll services, helping busy individuals and small to medium-sized businesses. Certified and cost-effective, IntrinsicPartners are able to focus on what is most important for their business: taking care of customers.
Specialties: Bookkeeping, Payroll, Daily Money Management 4 S 6th St, Unit C, Geneva, 630.200.7575 intrinsicpartnersabc.com facebook.com/intrinsicpartnersabc Twitter: @IntrinsicPabc linkedin.com/in/yvette-busha
Lower-left and upper-right photos by Angela Garbot Photography
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Chicago
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Network! Involve yourself in the community, and utilize social networking to connect with other local businesses.
Yvette Busha
What motivates you on a daily basis? Knowing the relief that we can provide clients when we get their finances organized. What do you CRAVE? Saving money! Organization! Getting ready for tax season!
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What inspired you to start your business? I wanted to have the freedom to train each client in a way that would help him or her succeed, unencumbered by a larger company’s philosophy that may not fit mine. What are your passions? I love cooking with people. Feeding people nourishing food is a way to show them love, and sharing a meal together is an awesome way to connect.
Isabelle Libmann
How do you measure success? When a client reaches a goal and discovers they’re able to do something physically that they haven’t been able to do in a long time: That is success for me. Who is your role model or mentor? My parents. They’ve taught me compassion and empathy, accountability and responsibility. They also raised me to be fiercely independent. I guess they raised me to become a small business owner! What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? Life can throw you some challenging obstacles, but you have the power to choose to be happy. If you don’t, you’ll wake up one day wondering where your life went.
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Chicago
IzzyFit Personal Training Evanston, Illinois
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
Vigorous. Passionate. Sincere. IzzyFit Personal Training makes fitness a fun, sane and integrated part of everyday life. The company provides various services to ensure that clients can make time for their health. Combining different exercise methods along with nutritional coaching, the IzzyFit approach is holistic and individualized, giving clients the biggest chance for success. Training is available in a private studio in Evanston.
Specialties: Weight Management, Pre/post-natal, Post-rehab 312.497.8999, izzyfit.com, facebook.com/IzzyFitPT Twitter: @IzzyFit, linkedin.com/in/isabellelibmann
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What inspired you to start your business? After long introspection, I realized that my burning passion was to host an international travel show. I didn’t know how to get there, but I knew I had to start. How do you measure success? By how much fun I’m having. Having fun is the best kind of happiness. Better than diamonds and gold. But shoes are a close second.
Jen Knoedl
How do you relax? If I can’t escape to a warm beach, I go dancing. As a high-energy person, my mind races quite a bit and dancing is a wonderful escape. What do you CRAVE? Travel. My bags are always packed.
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Chicago
JenChicago Productions Chicago, Illinois
Authentic. Social. Smart. Jen Knoedl turned from a corporate career in Austin and moved to Chicago in the summer of 2008. Since then she has been an on-camera host for numerous television shows and red carpet events. Jen is happiest when she is creating travel video. While she plans for her international travel show, we are happy to have her serve as Chapter President for CRAVE Chicago.
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
Specialties: Travel Video, Social Promotions, Video Production 773.495.5909 JenChicago.com JenKnoedl.com facebook.com/JenChicago Twitter: @JenTravelsLife
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KatyHansell.com Chicago, Illinois
Transformational. Supportive. Inspiring. KatyHansell.com gives women everything they need to make their dream lives and dream job happen now! Life coaching focuses on breaking through limiting beliefs to design relationships, health, creative expression and freedom. Career coaching supports proactive management of profitable growth. Business services support business plans, funding, marketing and sales. Headquartered in Chicago and welcome clients wanting to work online and remotely.
Specialties: Executive, Life and Career Coaching, Business Support katy.hansell@gmail.com katyhansell.com linkedin.com/in/katyhansell
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
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Chicago
What makes your business unique? Most business people are not coaches and don’t know how to help clients through change. Most coaches are not business people and aren’t grounded in business. I am both! What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? Do one concrete thing in the direction of your dreams every day. It works and you feel better. One is always a number I can manage.
Katy Hansell
What is your motto or theme song? “We are always getting ready to live, but never living.” —Ralph Waldo Emerson Live now. Act now. Too often, we delay, distract, or deny ourselves the life that’s ours. 93
Far-left and upper-right photos by Amy Boyle Photography, left-page right photo by Francis Son Photography, lower‑right photo by Nando Alvarez Photography
La Pucara Jewelry Collections Chicago, Illinois
Handcrafted. Natural. Socially Responsible. La Pucara offers one-of-a-kind jewelry handcrafted with seeds sustainably harvested from the Amazon Rainforest. Each of the pieces captures the essence of the incredible locations where the materials come from, and for every piece of jewelry made, there is a contribution to change. Through their jewelry, La Pucara is working to provide inspiration for a more beautiful and fair world!
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Chicago
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be persistent, and don’t be afraid to ask for help! I was so surprised by the number of people who have so generously and thoughtfully contributed to our success! What do you like best about owning a business? The flexibility it offers and the creativity it inspires. I feel like I am constantly learning something new and meeting someone new, and I love being in control of my schedule!
Colleen Graneto
What motivates you on a daily basis? Our artisans in Ecuador! Even though they have had such difficult lives and limited means, they are such optimistic, creative and thoughtful people—it’s incredibly inspiring!
Specialty: Jewelry Handcrafted with Seeds from the Rainforest 216.906.3308, etsy.com/shop/lapucaracollections facebook.com/lapucaracollections, Twitter: @LaPucara
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Laura Tanner Jewelry Evanston, Illinois
Treasured. Timeless. Meaningful. Laura Tanner Jewelry specializes in artisan jewelry that is designed and handmade just outside Chicago. Made from natural gemstone beads and delicate metals, founder and designer Laura Tanner Swinand’s original designs range from customized charm jewelry, elegant statement pieces, to your favorite everyday necklaces, earrings or bracelets. Drawing on Laura’s studies in art history, her aesthetic is both rooted in the past and inspired by current fashion.
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Chicago
Photos by Rhonda Holcomb Photography, except portrait by Amy Boyle Photography
Specialties: Handmade and Custom Jewelry Studio and Showroom: 2337 Park Place, First Floor, Evanston, By appointment only LTJ at Galleria in Evanston: 1627 Sherman Ave, Evanston Stores: lauratannerjewelry.com/retail-locations lauratannerjewelry.com, facebook.com/LauraTannerJewelry, Twitter: @LTJewelry Instagram: @ltjewelry, pinterest.com/lauraswinand
What are your most popular products or services? Anything made with labradorite or druzy quartz, which also happen to be my favorite gemstones. What makes your business unique? A small production team of skilled local artisans handcrafts each piece of jewelry and we guarantee the utmost attention to detail and quality.
Laura Tanner Swinand
What inspired you to start your business? After years of studying art history and working in museums, I realized making things was more fun than writing about them. I love the immediacy and intimacy of creating things that people wear close to their bodies, have special meaning and bring them pleasure. 97
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Learn from your mistakes, keep moving forward and find the joy in what you do. Embrace change, and work to improve and grow your business and yourself. Who is your role model or mentor? My parents. They are both creative entrepreneurs. They’ve shown me the importance of guiding people in the creative process while mastering the skill you have for your craft.
Lydia Evans
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Chicago
What is your motto or theme song? Let’s try it! I grew up believing you can figure out how to do anything, and I try to abide by that and inspire others to do the same.
Letterpress by Lydia Chicago, Illinois
Handmade. Thoughtful. Elegant. Letterpress by Lydia specializes in letterpress-printed custom invitations, announcements, stationery, business cards and luxury paper goods for all occasions. Each piece is lovingly handcrafted and designed just for you. Using an antique Gordon letterpress (over 150 years old), each project is printed with care. All ink colors are mixed by hand, and many unique paper choices are available, including 100 percent cotton, tree-free options.
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
Specialties: Letterpress Wedding Invitations and Paper Goods 847.312.1105, letterpressbylydia.com, Twitter: @letterpresslyds facebook.com/letterpressbylydia
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What makes your business unique? Authenticity. We base our programming and training around who you really are so that it becomes an ingrained part of how you work, not how your business works you. What are your passions? We are passionately driven to support and enable people to do and be what they love! Marry who you want, work how you want, inspire everyone as you go!
Marie Hale Ramos
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Be brave. Drink wine. Find friends who will understand. You will not be the same woman six months from now, and you will be in love with what you do. How do you keep balance in your life? I organize my time daily. I know where I am going, what is most important and what I can say no to... it’s invaluable!
100
Chicago
Lipstic Logic Chicago, Illinois
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
Focused. Fearless. Fabulous. Lipstic Logic is a sales and marketing strategy company focused on taking business owners from frazzled to fabulous! Customized client relationship management systems, powerful sales techniques and sheer inspiration fuel a marketing strategy and implementation that can span all forms of media and bring qualified leads to your door. Lipstic Logic puts a spotlight on your business so that you can shine!
Specialties: Strategy, Sales, Sparkle 630.631.7713, lipsticlogic.com, facebook.com/LipsticLogic Twitter: @lipsticlogic, linkedin.com/in/mariehaleramos
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Photo by Angela Garbot Photography
“I live the life I always wanted. Power suit with matching diaper bag and the time and ability to write my own rules when it comes to motherhood and business.” —Marie Hale Ramos, Lipstic Logic
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography, except portrait by Kimberly Postma Photography
Mac & Cheese Productions Chicago, Illinois
Innovative. Transformative. Infectious. Mac & Cheese Productions helps people live a life of yes! Intentional community and meaningful connections in environments where you feel comfortable solo as well as with people you’ve just met. Working, making friends, dating and self-improvement transform from sources of stress to those of joy. Goodness abounds as people who share little in common, save for a willingness to be open, proactive and vulnerable come together.
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Chicago
What makes your business unique? Many of the offerings require that you participate solo. You don’t have to worry about not knowing anyone, no one knows anyone! Embracing your suckage also encouraged, creating immediate bonds. What inspired you to start your business? Dissatisfaction with the traditional avenues to meet potential clients, friends and boyfriends!
Saya Hillman
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Let your default way of thinking lean positive, not negative. Embrace your suckage and turn something you’re “bad” at into goodness. If you desire something that doesn’t exist, create it.
Specialties: Connections, Networking, Events macncheeseproductions.com facebook.com/macncheeseproductions Twitter: @sayahillman
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Meandering Design Chicago, Illinois
Whimsical. Mod. Eclectic. Meandering Design is a design house that creates eclectic, stylish and sustainable clothing and lifestyle accessories. Meandering Design inspires others to do the same through trainings, workshops and online activities for people with little to no sewing experience to learn how to mend and upcycle clothing on their own. Meandering Design wants to create, and inspire others to create, a style that is sustainable.
Specialties: Clothing and Accessories 773.469.4904, meanderingdesign.com facebook.com/MeanderingDesign Twitter: @Meander_Design
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
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What are your most popular products or services? Picnic blankets that are made out of upcycled materials, and each one is unique. I love the connection people have to the materials I use. Who is your role model or mentor? My mother and grandmother. They taught me how to sew, how to make do with what was on hand, how to do it myself and how to be strong.
Kandy M. Christensen
What place inspires you? Chicago: so many neighborhoods, each with their own unique sense of style and a temperament to match.
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What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? Persevere. Each day there will be challenges. If we keep moving, are willing to adapt, and remember that it is all part of life, things do smooth out on their own. I enjoy day-to-day obstacles! What are your passions? Uniting people to co-create. That’s how Merging Talent was formed. I see big-picture opportunities that grow unique individual strength and style to form a team.
Elaina Schyb
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Chicago
How do you relax? By writing my goals down, even what I need to do within the next 8 hours! Taking things step-by-step prevents that unwelcome overwhelming feeling.
Merging Talent Chicago, Illinois
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
Strong. Inspiring. Magnetic. Merging Talent is a marketing consulting firm that offers creative brand exposure. They create opportunities to expand a business brand and profit with new ideas and then take it from concept to completion. Working virtually, adding strength to a business for short- and long-term goals, Merging Talent builds databases, makes outbound calls, provides industry research and, of course, they plan events!
Specialties: Innovative Results Coaching 866.637.4366, mergingtalent.com Twitter: @Merging_Talent
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What inspired you to start your business? I was working at large corporations and realized there were few law firms with an entrepreneurial mindset, transparency and partnership approach. I love helping other entrepreneurs start and scale their businesses.
Tricia Meyer
What are your passions? I am passionate about helping other entrepreneurs succeed. I’m a mentor and host workshops and office hours at 1871, and other incubators and accelerators across the United States. What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? Find your passion. You’ll never feel like you’re “working” again. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Don’t let anyone or anything stop you. No matter who you are, you’ll face obstacles. Figure out a solution and move on.
110
Chicago
Meyer Law The Loop, Chicago
Portrait by Angela Garbot Photography, lower-left photo by modern photography, left-page lower-right photo by Bum Bul Bee Photography, lower-right photo by IrinaPhotography
Transparent. Flexible. Experienced. Meyer Law is a forward-thinking boutique law firm providing top-notch legal services to clients ranging from startups to large corporations in a variety of industries. Started by entrepreneur Tricia Meyer, Meyer Law sets itself apart from other firms through its unique partnership approach. Meyer Law equips domestic and international businesses with the information needed to make sound, real-world decisions on corporate, commercial, intellectual property and employment-related matters.
Specialty: Legal By appointment: 233 S Wacker Dr, 84th Floor, Chicago 312.957.6997, MeetMeyerLaw.com facebook.com/meetmeyerlaw, linkedin.com/in/meyertricia
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Natalie Shuler
Acupuncturist, Chinese Herbalist Chicago, Illinois Healing. Natural. Wholistic. Natalie Shuler specializes in the treatment of women’s health, pain management, and mental/emotional health. While acupuncture is the most well know treatment modality of Chinese medicine, it is really only one of many. These treatments include Chinese herbal medicine, cupping, TuiNa medical massage (like acupressure but more intense), nutritional and lifestyle analysis and recommendations.
Specialties: Acupuncture, Chinese Herbal Medicine, Cupping 773.270.2054 natalie@yinyangwisdom.com yinyangwisdom.com facebook.com/yinyangwisdom Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
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Chicago
What inspired you to start your business? I take a personalized approach to healing each individual’s constitution. How do you measure success? By whether or not what I do for someone works. Any treatment is only worth it if it works for you.
Natalie Shuler L.Ac, MSOM
What motivates you on a daily basis? Whether I’m helping someone relieve their pain, regulating an out of whack menstrual cycle or helping to facilitate a healthy emotional state, I love the feeling of helping other people. How do you relax? I’m mostly hanging out with my kids, so I play a lot. But I like to kick back with a good book and just get lost. 113
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography, except portrait
NowStudio Logan Square, Chicago
Awakening. Inspiring. Affirming. An intuitive healer with over 13 years of experience, Nourhy uses a unique combination of holistic coaching and alternative bodywork—craniosacral therapy, reflexology and Reiki—to help people tap into their own healing potential. It feels like a cross between a brainstorming session and energy healing, which will leave you feeling more connected and grounded to experience the possibilities of your true intuitive self. Nourhy has been featured in DailyCandy and on the television show 190 North.
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Chicago
What inspired you to start your business? I transitioned into working in the healing arts after experiencing years of chronic pain following a car accident. I really wanted to teach others what I’ve learned. What is your motto or theme song? I always say that your health is the most important thing you can have. As long as you’re healthy, you can always make money; it’s true!
Nourhy Beatriz
What do you CRAVE? Health, happiness and prosperity. Letting go of things that don’t serve me, and seeing and taking the opportunities that come my way.
Specialties: Healing, Intuition and Holistic Coaching 2515 N California Ave, Chicago 773.276.5278 nowstudio.co Twitter: @nourhy facebook.com/nowstudio linkedin.com/in/nourhy
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Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
“Sharing my knowledge/wisdom, and getting paid to do so is a dream. Having a chance to help people is a blessing, heart opening and satisfying.” —Nourhy Beatriz, NowStudio
Oaklee’s Family Guide Chicago, Illinois
Easy. Smart. Trustworthy. Oaklee’s Family Guide™ is The Go-To-Guide for On-The-Go Parents™ in the Chicagoland area. They do the legwork to find the what, when and where of family events, places and services, including great money-saving coupons. They put it all together in an easy-to-use digital publication and website so that busy parents can spend more time having fun with their families.
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Chicago
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
Specialties: Family-Focused Events and Services 847.478.9692, oakleesguide.com, facebook.com/oakleesguide Twitter: @oakleesguide, linkedin.com/in/nancystevens
What inspired you to start your business? When my kids were young, I was looking for ways to educate and entertain them. When I couldn’t find a good resource with that information, I started my own. What are your passions? My passion is helping other women business owners grow and flourish.
Nancy Stevens
What do you like best about owning a business? Helping busy moms save time for family fun, and helping other women business owners. I also love creating a family-focused work environment for moms and dads. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Get to know your customer, and be open to changing your product or strategy to best meet their needs. What place inspires you? I’m always inspired by the beach. It reminds me that life is an endless series of waves, good and bad; that I’m just one small piece of the larger world. How do you keep balance in your life? I’ve always taken time to be there for my kids and husband. I try to create that same environment for my employees. There’s nothing more important than family and health.
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What makes your business unique? Most social media marketing firms offer fantastic strategies to their clients, but very few offer anything beyond that. We offer the day-to-day support and content creation that they need. What inspired you to start your business? Seeing the gap that needed to be filled in social media marketing. Very few small businesses have the time or resources to devote strictly to social media.
Melissa Casserly
What do you like best about owning a business? The ability to “have it all”! I can set my own schedule, never miss any activities with my children and work with amazing business owners. How do you measure success? I measure my success by knowing that I have grown a client’s brand online that has created a buzz. What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? Don’t be afraid to charge what you’re worth. If you discount your services, your clients discount their faith in your expertise. How do you keep balance in your life? Saying no. Saying no is saying yes to something more important.
120
Chicago
Out There Strategies Chicago, Illinois
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
Clever. Creative. Fun. Out There Strategies creates and implements completely customized social media marketing programs to complement their clients’ current marketing strategies. Whether you need daily social media support, content creation, staff training or just a onetime setup of social media accounts, Out There Strategies brings the tools and expertise that best suit the needs of your brand.
Specialties: Social Media Marketing and Strategies 312.498.3222, outtherestrategies.com, facebook.com/OutThereStrategies Twitter: @outtherestrat, linkedin.com/in/melissacasserly
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Photo by Angela Garbot Photography
“Surround yourself with a personal ‘board of directors’: people in your life who support you and your business in a real and honest way.” —Melissa Casserly, Out There Strategies
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
Purple and Lime, Inc. Chicago, Illinois
Fashionable. Colorful. Well-made. Purple and Lime is a fun and affordable line inspired by Rebecca George’s fashionable vision. Laser-cut acrylic, faux fur and polymer clay are just a few of the materials used to create unique jewelry, women’s wear and accessories! In addition to creating fashion, Rebecca also offers small-business coaching and teaches various courses in Chicago.
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Chicago
What are your most popular products or services? My most popular products include laser-cut state jewelry, raven necklaces and pins, and faux fur muff hand warmers. The hand warmers are great sellers even in the summer! What tip would you give women who are starting a business? I’d tell any woman who is starting a business to do lots of research about your field beforehand—it will save time and money in the future.
Rebecca George
What do you like best about owning a business? The best part of owning my own business is knowing that the successes are a result of my own hard work. It’s a whole new sense of pride!
Specialties: Jewelry, Accessories, Clothing, Coaching, Teaching 773.706.0079, purpleandlime.com facebook.com/purpleandlimefashion, Twitter: @purpleandlime linkedin.com/in/rebeccapurpleandlime
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What makes your business unique? I have an open communication style with my clients and, as a result, a partnership is formed to support their pets in living the most content and happy life possible. What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? The most successful business people in the world never feel ready; they just go! What is your motto or theme song? David Viscott said, “The purpose of life is to discover your gift. The meaning of life is to give your gift away.”
Julia Rohan
126
Chicago
How do you keep balance in your life? I find balance through community with others, my own family and by remaining adaptable and patient.
Rover-Time
Dog Walking & Pet Services Chicago, Illinois
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
Honest. Professional. Community-oriented. Rover-Time provides pet owners with peace of mind, knowledge and a community to plug into. This professional, insured pet service company focuses on quality dog walking, overnight care, coaching and specialty services and pet transportation. They will support your pet’s health, routine and learning development.
Specialties: Dog Walking, Overnight Care, Coaching 773.242.9176, rover-time.com, facebook.com/rovertime Twitter: @Rover_Time, linkedin.com/in/juliarohan
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Shauna of the Star Chicago, Illinois
Profound. Personal. Private. Shauna of the Star features an online, weekly subscription, video-channeled tarot reading series. Shauna Angel Blue has been channeling and giving readings for over twenty years. This new video subscription, developed for savvy and sophisticated lovers of the psychic world, allows for people from all over the world to receive weekly guidance through channeled readings. Shauna offers exclusive and fun interaction with spirit.
128
Chicago
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
Specialties: Online Channeled Readings By appointment only: 2711 W Fulton St, Chicago 312.593.8887, shaunaofthestar.com facebook.com/ShaunaoftheStar Twitter: @ShaunaoftheStar
What are your most popular products or services? My most popular service is the online, channeled video subscription series. People can receive weekly guidance at a fraction of the cost of one-on-one personal consultation.
Shauna Angel Blue
What inspired you to start your business? I desire to reach a larger audience in a unique, creative and visionary way to change the world, for the empowerment of the individual. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Have patience and hire the best people you can afford.
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Photo by Angela Garbot Photography
“I love the freedom to create every single day how I wish to live my life.” —Shauna Angel Blue, Shauna of the Star
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
THE SKIN SPA Lincoln Park, Chicago
Organic. Personal. Relaxing. THE SKIN SPA is a full-service skincare studio which has a unique and relaxing atmosphere designed to cater to one client at a time. They strive for a higher standard of skincare while respecting the planet. Their approach is to combine natural healing treatments with the latest technological advancements to offer the best in anti‑aging facials, acne treatments, microdermabrasion, peels and hair removal.
132
Chicago
What makes your business unique? We cater to one client at a time so every single service is completely customized to that individual every visit. This provides a superior experience, with outstanding results. What inspired you to start your business? My passion for skincare and the desire to cater to the individual. What are your passions? I grew up in a very artistic home, so art has always been a huge part of my life. Holistic health is also a big passion of mine!
Shana Irish
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Do your research and start small. There’s always room to grow!
Specialties: Skincare and Waxing Located within Robert Jeffrey Salon: 1416 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, 773.477.1050 theskinspalp.com, facebook.com/theskinspalp Twitter: @THESKINSPA1
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Photo by Angela Garbot Photography
“In order to achieve your dreams, you must not base your decisions on fear. Just go for it!” —Shana Irish, THE SKIN SPA
What makes your business unique? I provide end-to-end solutions, from strategy to design to implementation. What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? From an Amanda Palmer Ted Talk: “You don’t get what you don’t ask for.” We’re often timid when it comes to asking for what we want, including someone’s business. Go out there and be bold! You’ll be rewarded.
Suzanne Deveney
136
Chicago
What place inspires you? When I need inspiration I immediately go to my favorite place: my bike. Before long, I start to see words and images that spark ideas. Type, color, people... city images surround me and help me solve creative problems.
soozed words+pics Chicago, Illinois
Strategic. Accomplished. Flexible. A full-service content marketing company, soozed words+pics specializes in brand strategy, integrated marketing solutions, social media strategy and implementation, creative direction and design. Suzanne Deveney, a trained designer and accomplished writer, has built successful programs for large and small companies, developing communication strategies that bring organizational visions to life. She helps startups gain momentum and revitalizes established brands with intuition, insight and creativity.
Specialties: Content Strategy, Writing, Design, Branding 312.833.4922, soozed.com, Twitter: @soozed linkedin.com/in/suzannedeveney
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Spark Living Chicago, Illinois
Modern. Inspired. Colorful. Spark Living is an online boutique for modern home decor, housewares and gifts. Every item in their curated collection must possess these three traits: usefulness, good design and personality. The store’s name is a nod to the surge of excitement felt when discovering a new item for their store and their focus on smaller, independent designers whose careers are still in the “sparking” stages.
138
Chicago
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
Specialties: Home Decor, Gifts, Housewares, Accessories sparkliving.com, facebook.com/SparkLiving, Twitter: @SparkLiving
What are your most popular products or services? Items with personality that make you smile. We carry bookends shaped like balloon animals, mugs with handles that look like diamond rings and matryoshka dolls that are actually measuring cups.
Merrideth Kalil
What business mistake have you made that you will not repeat? Starting the business 100 percent on my own. A partner gives you someone to share the workload with and means you can come up with double the ideas and solutions. What do you wish you’d known before starting your business? Photoshop. And Excel. And someone else who ran an online store. It’s very different than brick and mortar, so finding people who face the same day-to-day challenges isn’t easy.
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“You can’t, and shouldn’t, do everything yourself. Outsource things you don’t have expertise in. It will get done better and faster and, ultimately, will allow you to be more productive.” —Merrideth Kalil, Spark Living
Photo by Amy Boyle Photography
Spire Coaching and Consulting Chicago, Illinois
Personal. Focused. Motivating. Spire Coaching and Consulting is a full-service life coaching organization with many options to meet various client needs. Spire Coaches help their clients set excellent goals, and then reach their goals quickly by providing clients with strategies, support and structure. Spire clients work with a coach to align their life with their values and priorities, to maximize their fulfillment and leisure time.
142
Chicago
Lower-left and -right photos by Amy Boyle Photography, portrait by christina noĂŤl
Specialties: Personal Coaching 773.398.3696, www.spirecoaches.com facebook.com/spirecoaches, Twitter: @Spirecoaches linkedin.com/company/spire-coaching-and-consulting
What makes your business unique? We coach the whole person, not just around your career or your relationships. Every part of your life integrates into every other part, to find your right balance. What inspired you to start your business? I’ve always been the kind of person people ask for advice. Becoming a certified coach was simply a natural extension of that desire to help others reach their dreams. What do you like best about owning a business? Knowing that I play a part in my clients’ successes is really motivating.
Keri Christensen
How do you measure success? There’s nothing more important than the relationships we build—that’s the true legacy we leave behind. What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Don’t get stuck in the planning phase. Find a way to get your feet wet without jumping in over your head. What is your motto or theme song? “It’s better to light a candle than to curse the darkness.” —Eleanor Roosevelt What place inspires you? Walking south through Lincoln Park, there’s one turn in the path where you come upon the Chicago skyline. It takes my breath away—human achievement and natural beauty combined. 143
What are your most popular products or services? Infographics, blog post writing, website redesigns, social media marketing, analytics reporting, and strategic planning. What are your passions? I love teaching people new things and seeing their eyes light up with excitement. Sharing knowledge is one of the greatest gifts you can give others because it empowers them.
Christine Mortensen
144
Chicago
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Surround yourself with the smartest people you know and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Together we strengthen each other.
Sprk’d Chicago, Illinois
Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
Strategic. Goal-oriented. Fun. Sprk’d makes an excellent partner as they provide deep expertise in three areas core to solving today’s marketing challenges: user experience, visual design, and content marketing. Above all else, Sprk’d is committed to excellence in customer service. When you work with Sprk’d you gain a partner and advocate looking out for your best interests beyond simple tactical execution.
Specialties: Online Marketing and Design 773.234.8851, sprk-d.com, facebook.com/getsprkd Twitter: @GetSprkd, linkedin.com/company/sprkd
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Photo by Angela Garbot Photography
“My dad would always say, ‘Go big or go home.’ If you’re going to do something—think big!” —Christine Mortensen, Sprk’d
What are your passions? I love letterpress: the artistry, the history and the community. I also love people, and I value my connections with family, friends and business partners. What do you like best about owning a business? I love the freedom of being my own boss and the sense of accomplishment that comes with knowing each success is a direct result of my own hard work.
Shayna Norwood
148
Chicago
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? It’s going to be difficult. There will be euphoric days and miserable days. But don’t give up! Passion, integrity and persistence can get you where you want to be.
Steel Petal Press Pilsen, Chicago
Upper-left and lower-right photos by Amy Boyle Photography
Luxurious. Custom. Eco-friendly. Steel Petal Press creates unique, luxurious paper products fusing classic elegance with a vintage, urban twist. Wedding invitations, personalized stationery and greeting cards are artfully letterpress-printed by hand on soft cotton paper using eco-friendly materials and environmentally friendly clean-up practices. Digital printing is also offered as a more budget-friendly option.
Specialties: Letterpress, Wedding Stationery, Custom Design By appointment only: 2150 S Canalport Ave, Studio 3C-12, Chicago 773.234.7758, steelpetalpress.com, facebook.com/steelpetalpress Twitter: @steelpetalpress, linkedin.com/in/shaynanorwood Instagram: @steelpetalpress
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What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Choose to do something that makes you happy. Dream big, and don’t be afraid to follow your intuition. When the time comes to make changes, embrace them. Don’t give up. What do you like best about owning a business? It is a privilege to wake up every morning knowing you can create something that didn’t exist yesterday. You have the opportunity to shape what your life looks like.
Tania Rodamilans
150
Chicago
How do you relax? Any body of water contains the seed of relaxation—whether it be a bathtub or an ocean. The sound of water helps me forget my long to-do lists.
Tania Rodamilans Andersonville, Chicago
Whimsical. Colorful. Organic. Tania Rodamilans’s style of art and jewelry design is the result of endless exploration and experimentation. Her works are vibrant and playful, blending multiple media, approaches and textures to create pieces that are born of both reality and fantasy. She crafts her paintings so that they reveal more with each added layer and creates original jewelry that is not just an accessory, but a wearable work of art.
Left-page photos by Denise Riesen, right‑page photo by Jaime Torres
Specialties: Mixed Media Painting, Jewelry Design Andersonville Galleria | 5247 N Clark St, Chicago Fortunate Discoveries | 1022 W Armitage, Chicago 312.933.1333, taniarodamilans.com facebook.com/TaniaRodamilansArtWorks Twitter: @RodamilansTania
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Photos by Angela Garbot Photography
typebaby Chicago, Illinois
Clever. Fresh. Relatable. typebaby is a line of typographic baby and kids’ apparel created by a graphic designer and mom for fellow creative-minded parents. Inspired by a love of typography and the personality types of growing babies, the type-based designs are unique, clever and relatable. The line is made in the United States and can be found in Chicago stores as well as online.
152
Chicago
What inspired you to start your business? My infant son, a love of typography, and a desire for high-quality, welldesigned, memorable baby apparel (and as new parents know, babies require frequent wardrobe changes!) What do you like best about owning a business? Freedom to choose the projects I devote time to. And now that I have a child, I’m grateful that I can make my own schedule and spend time with him.
Lidia Varesco Racoma
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? Don’t be afraid to reach out to your connections and ask for help. Don’t try to do everything yourself.
Specialties: Baby and Kids’ Apparel 312.733.3615, typebabydesign.com facebook.com/typebaby, Twitter: @typebaby Lidia Varesco Design: 312.733.3615 lsvdesign.com, Twitter: @lsvdesign
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Vavoom Pinups River West, Chicago
Glamorous. Unforgettable. Empowering. Vavoom Pinups is a head-to-toe transformation vintage photography experience for the modern woman. Vavoom Pinups uses the timeless all-American pin-up as it’s inspiration to translate the everyday woman into something glamorous, something silly, something seductive, or something sweet. Women use these images for personal use to give to their sweetheart, or just something fabulous to post on Facebook to show off their look.
Specialties: All-American Pin-up Photography By appointment only: 724 W Hubbard St, Chicago, 773.726.1109 vavoompinups.com, facebook.com/VavoomPinupsChicago
Lower-left and -right photos by Angela Garbot Photography
154
Chicago
What makes your business unique? Our fantastic team and our no-holdsbarred desire to make each Vavoom shoot unique and unforgettable. What do you like best about owning a business? Control. I love making my own hours. Learning from my clients and our fabulous team. What do you wish you’d known before starting your business? It’s okay to make mistakes and to admit to them.
Heather Stumpf-Popio
How do you relax? I try to spend time a little bit of time each day with my husband or our friends without my phone on. Sometimes a vacation from your cell is enough! 155
Photo by Angela Garbot Photography
“Follow your gut. If you have an idea, give it a go. What’s the worst that could happen?” —Heather Stumpf-Popio, Vavoom Pinups
Willing to Help Chicago, Illinois
Warm. Engaged. Insightful. Willing to Help (W2H) provides modern estate planning services for all types of Chicago families. Leigh Welker created the company in order to bring innovation to the occasionally less-than-exciting traditional practice of estate planning law. W2H has made it a priority to combine approachability and friendliness with responsibility in order to create a new type of legal environment.
158
Chicago
Photos by Amy Boyle Photography
Specialties: Modern Estate Planning 440.840.3095, willingtohelp.net facebook.com/LeighIsW2H Twitter: @LeighIsW2H
What makes your business unique? W2H is unique in our modern approach to estate planning. I concentrate on families that have recently entered a marriage or civil union or welcomed a child into the family.
Leigh B. Welker
What inspired you to start your business? Estate planning is often considered for people “with money” or not for people “my age.” I saw a need for a contemporary discussion around the benefits of planning responsibly. What do you like best about owning a business? I am my own boss. The success of Willing to Help is up to me, and I am determining my own destiny while honoring those who have helped me. What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a harder battle.” —Plato What motivates you on a daily basis? Loyalty, trust and warmth create the foundation of my business. I sincerely want nothing more for my families than peace of mind surrounding their estate plan.
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What are your passions? I’m from Chicago, born and raised, so naturally I have a strong passion for food. Foodie for life! What do you like best about owning a business? The best thing about owning my own business is being my own boss. I enjoy being creative and creating a fun environment for my clients to shop in.
Erica James
160
Chicago
What tip would you give women who are starting a business? My tip of advice for any woman starting out is to never give up on dreams, never let anyone tell you that it won’t work or succeed.
Young Royal Couture Bucktown/Wicker Park, Chicago
Whimsical. Colorful. Trendy. Young Royal Couture (YRC) prides itself on delivering high-quality kids’ fashions to the unique child who stands out from the masses. YRC is a premier children’s retail boutique offering a variety of clothing, toys, accessories, books and customdesigned shoes for children ages six and under. YRC also specializes in customized footwear! Young Royal Couture is the place “wear kids feel like royalty!”
Specialty: Children’s Clothing, sizes infant to 6 1750 W North Ave, Chicago, 773.252.4911 youngroyalcouture.com, facebook.com/YoungRoyalCouture Twitter: @youngroyalcouture
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162
Chicago
163
164
Chicago
Index by Category The Arts Amy Boyle Photography, 26 Angela Garbot Photography, 30 Art of Seduction Boudoir, 34 Black Jade Creative, 40 Bottle & Bottega, 44 Family Line Video, LLC, 68 FORTUNATE DISCOVERIES Art + Design on Armitage, 76 Mac & Cheese Productions, 104 Tania Rodamilans, 150 Vavoom Pinups, 154 Beauty Innovative Orthodontic Centers, 84 THE SKIN SPA, 132 Vavoom Pinups, 154 Business Services 4 Keys Media LLC, 14 Alpine Cleaning Equipment, Inc., 18 Amy Boyle Photography, 26 Angela Garbot Photography, 30 The Best Career For Me, 38 Black Jade Creative, 40 City Staffing, 56 Creative Coworking, 60 Do You Love Your Mortgage?, 62 Evolving Strategies LLC, 64 Fashionista Chicago, 72 Gizmo Creative Factory, 80 IntrinsicPartners ABC, Inc., 86 JenChicago Productions, 90 KatyHansell.com, 92 Letterpress by Lydia, 98 Lipstic Logic, 100 Mac & Cheese Productions, 104 Merging Talent, 108
Business Services (continued) Meyer Law, 110 Oaklee’s Family Guide, 118 Out There Strategies, 120 Purple and Lime, Inc., 124 SGJ Property Management, Inc., 10 soozed words+pics, 136 Sprk’d, 144 typebaby, 152 Willing To Help, 158 Events 4 Keys Media LLC, 14 Amy Boyle Photography, 26 Angela Garbot Photography, 30 Bottle & Bottega, 44 Chicago Kids Yoga LLC, 54 JenChicago Productions, 90 Letterpress by Lydia, 98 Mac & Cheese Productions, 104 Shauna of the Star, 128 Steel Petal Press, 148 Fashion Fashionista Chicago, 72 FOMO Active Wear, 74 FORTUNATE DISCOVERIES Art + Design on Armitage, 76 La Pucara Jewelry Collections, 94 Laura Tanner Jewelry, 96 Meandering Design, 106 Purple and Lime, Inc., 124 Tania Rodamilans, 150 Vavoom Pinups, 154 Young Royal Couture, 160 Food & Drink Amy Boyle Photography, 26 Index
165
by Category (continued) Food & Drink (continued) Chicago Chocolate Tours, 52 Gifts Capim Santo Alchemy, 48 Family Line Video, LLC, 68 FORTUNATE DISCOVERIES Art + Design on Armitage, 76 Laura Tanner Jewelry, 96 Meandering Design, 106 Spark Living, 138 Steel Petal Press, 148 Home Alpine Cleaning Equipment, Inc., 18 Angela Garbot Photography, 30 Do You Love Your Mortgage?, 62 FORTUNATE DISCOVERIES Art + Design on Armitage, 76 Spark Living, 138 Media Angela Garbot Photography, 30 Fashionista Chicago, 72 Oaklee’s Family Guide, 118 Moms Alpine Cleaning Equipment, Inc., 18 Amy Boyle Photography, 26 Angela Garbot Photography, 30 Chicago Kids Yoga LLC, 54 Laura Tanner Jewelry, 96 Oaklee’s Family Guide, 118 typebaby, 152 Young Royal Couture, 160 Nightlife Bottle & Bottega, 44 Mac & Cheese Productions, 104 166
Chicago
Nonprofit Amy Boyle Photography, 26 AURA Natural Pet, 36 GEM Educational Foundation, 78 Pets Alpine Cleaning Equipment, Inc., 18 AURA Natural Pet, 36 CanineLink Education and Consulting, Inc., 46 Rover-Time Dog Walking & Pet Sitting, 126 Recreation Bottle & Bottega, 44 Mac & Cheese Productions, 104 Meandering Design, 106 Travel Amy Boyle Photography, 26 JenChicago Productions, 90 Wellness 1st Call Home Care, Inc, 78 Amanda Skrip, CHHC, 22 Capim Santo Alchemy, 48 Chicago Kids Yoga LLC, 54 FOMO Active Wear, 74 GEM Staffing, 78 Healthy Jasmine Wellness, 82 Innovative Orthodontic Centers, 84 IzzyFit Personal Training, 88 Mac & Cheese Productions, 104 Natalie Shuler - Acupuncturist, Chinese Herbalist, 112 NowStudio, 114 Shauna of the Star, 128 THE SKIN SPA, 132 Spire Coaching and Consulting, 142
Index by Location Andersonville Tania Rodamilans, 150
Pilsen Steel Petal Press, 148
Bucktown Young Royal Couture, 160
Plainfield Innovative Orthodontic Centers, 84
Cary Alpine Cleaning Equipment, Inc., 18
River West Vavoom Pinups, 154
Evanston Creative Coworking, 60 IzzyFit Personal Training, 88 Laura Tanner Jewelry, 96
The South Loop Bottle & Bottega, 44
Geneva IntrinsicPartners ABC, Inc., 86 Lakeview Bottle & Bottega, 44 Lincoln Park FORTUNATE DISCOVERIES Art + Design on Armitage, 76 Laura Tanner Jewelry, 96 THE SKIN SPA, 132 Logan Square NowStudio, 114 The Loop City Staffing, 56 Innovative Orthodontic Centers, 84 Meyer Law, 110 Naperville Innovative Orthodontic Centers, 84
Ukranian Village Art of Seduction Boudoir, 34 West Loop CanineLink Education and Consulting, Inc., 46 By Appointment 1st Call Home Care, Inc, 78 4 Keys Media LLC, 14 Amanda Skrip, CHHC, 22 Amy Boyle Photography, 26 Angela Garbot Photography, 30 AURA Natural Pet, 36 The Best Career For Me, 38 Black Jade Creative, 40 Capim Santo Alchemy, 48 Chicago Chocolate Tours, 52 Do You Love Your Mortgage?, 62 Evolving Strategies LLC, 64 Family Line Video, LLC, 68 FOMO Active Wear, 74 GEM Educational Foundation, 78 GEM Staffing, 78
Index
167
by Location (continued) By Appointment (continued) Gizmo Creative Factory, 80 Healthy Jasmine Wellness, 82 JenChicago Productions, 90 KatyHansell.com, 92 Letterpress by Lydia, 98 Lipstic Logic, 100 Meandering Design, 106 Merging Talent, 108 Natalie Shuler - Acupuncturist, Chinese Herbalist, 112 Out There Strategies, 120 Rover-Time Dog Walking & Pet Sitting, 126 SGJ Property Management, Inc., 10 Shauna of the Star, 128 soozed words+pics, 136 Spire Coaching and Consulting, 142 Sprk’d, 144 typebaby, 152 Willing To Help, 158 Online Chicago Kids Yoga LLC, 54 Fashionista Chicago, 72 FOMO Active Wear, 74 La Pucara Jewelry Collections, 94 Mac & Cheese Productions, 104 Oaklee’s Family Guide, 118 Purple and Lime, Inc., 124 Spark Living, 138 typebaby, 152
168
Chicago
Index
169
170
Chicago
Contributors We believe in acknowledging, celebrating and passionately supporting locally owned businesses and entrepreneurs. We are extremely grateful to all contributors for this publication.
Melody Biringer, CRAVE Founder thecravecompany.com Innovative. Feminine. Connective. Melody Biringer, self-avowed “start-up junkie,” has built companies that range from Biringer Farm, a family‑run specialty‑food business, to home furnishings to a fitness studio. Her current entrepreneurial love‑child is The CRAVE Company: designed to creatively connect entrepreneurs who approach business in a fresh new way with the consumers they desire, as well as with each other. CRAVE is a resource for women entrepreneurs to promote their business and support like-minded women, and CRAVEguides are your go-to source for anything you could ever wish to find in your city—exclusively from women. Melody has taken CRAVE from Seattle to more than 30 cities worldwide, including New York City, Boston, Los Angeles, Chicago, Amsterdam and Toronto. Melody is a loyal community supporter, versed traveler and strong advocate for women-owned businesses. What are your most popular products or services? The global CRAVE community connects savvy business owners through online networks and in-person events. We believe in the power of collaboration among smart, successful women entrepreneurs, and we facilitate these relationships through our dynamic community. Our new online directory creates a hub for discovering women-owned businesses, with personal insights to attract followers to your business and encourage them to pursue dreams of their own. What was the motivation behind starting your business? I saw my best friend twice in a year and thought, “This is not right.” So I created excuses to get together so that we’d get it on the calendar, instead of giving it lip service. I crave girlfriend time. What is your motto or theme song? “Flashdance... What a Feeling” by Irene Cara. “What a feeling... Take your passion and make it happen... I can have it all; now I’m dancing for my life...” Every time I’m feeling a bit low, I play that song, and my spirits lift immediately. Contributors
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Alison Turner, Graphic Designer fb.com/alison.turner, linkedin.com/in/alisont Alison is a passionate designer and critical thinker in Seattle. She enjoys researching interesting things (like humans, food and urbanism), starting radical home-ec projects, exploring her city and the Pacific Northwest, volunteering, being outside, dancing, cooking and running.
Lilla Kovacs, Operations Manager lilla@thecravecompany.com As the operations manager, Lilla ensures that everything runs like clockwork. In her limited spare time, she enjoys baking, shoe shopping, traveling, art, Apple products and daydreaming about her hometowns, Arad, Romania, and Tel Aviv, Israel.
Christine Mortensen, CRAVE Chicago Partner 773.234.8851, sprk-d.com, facebook.com/getsprkd, Twitter: @GetSprkd linkedin.com/company/sprkd Sprk’d, Christine’s marketing business, provides expertise in three areas core to solving today’s marketing challenges: user experience, visual design, and content marketing.
Amy Boyle Photography 312.380.5993, amyboylephotography.com facebook.com/amyboylephotography, Twitter: @amyboylephoto linkedin.com/in/amyboylephoto Amy’s artistic vision coupled with her warm personality allow her to easily connect with people of all ages and bring a unique depth and beauty to her photography.
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Chicago
Angela Garbot Photography 773.383.8858, AngelaGarbot.com, Twitter: @PhotosByGarbot facebook.com/AngelaGarbotPhotography, Google+: Angela Garbot linkedin.com/in/AngelaGarbotPhotography Angela Garbot is a boutique lifestyle photographer, capturing the essence of her subjects, revealing not just what they look like, but who they are. Thank you to our additional contributor Emily J. Rivera Photography.
Contributors
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You hold in your hands the most unique and stylish guidebook for Chicago living. CRAVE Chicago is a celebration of women entrepreneurs that showcases some of the most creative, interesting and gutsy proprietors throughout our area. Let us introduce you to a fabulous new designer, to a miracle-worker masseuse, to a confectionery queen, to the amazing women around town who will help satisfy your next craving.
WHAT DO YOU CRAVE?
“I’ve had thousands of people come to my offerings over the eleven years I’ve been in business and by far the number one area people want to improve and develop is community. CRAVE gives women the opportunity to be heard, to cheerlead, to be supported, and most importantly, to belong. And there’s nothing more gratifying than belonging to a group of intelligent, positive and driven beings who are living their passions.” —Saya Hillman, owner of Mac & Cheese Productions “Each local CRAVE network spurs success by bringing passionate people together. Women in the entrepreneurial community naturally inspire one another to keep dreaming and continue striving. Open this book to any page, and you’ll see what I mean. CRAVE is all about making connections, building community and inspiring creativity, just like my coworking space!” —Angela Valavanis, founder of Creative Coworking