Sheridan Road, December/January 2026 by JWC Media

“ One can have no smaller or greater mastery than mastery of oneself.”

AVAILABLE AT

IS FILLED WITH WHERE EVERY MOMENT

FROM OUR HEARTS TO YOURS, WITH WARMTH AND GRATITUDE.

MAMAN. NORTH SHORE

AIROOM KNOWS ADDITIONS

holidays on the north shore

FEATURES

ZERO TO 30 WITH SMASHING SPEED ree decades after the release of Mellon Collie and the In nite Sadness, e Smashing Pumpkins’ genre-defying masterpiece still resonates with fans old and new—and Billy Corgan continues to defy musical conventions.

MOMENTUM KNOWS NO BOUNDARIES e spark, the systems, and the story of Jessica Qaasim.

THE

SPIRITED LIFE

Seventeen years ago, scholar Dr. Sonat Birnecker Hart traded academia for alchemy—launching KOVAL, now one of the largest independent, female-owned craft distilleries in the U.S.

LAGO’S LURE e reimagination of Plaza del Lago, Wilmette’s Spanish Revival gem, honors its storied past while promising a glittering future.

EDITOR’S

Jessica Qaasim wearing Shoshanna dress, Neiman Marcus Northbrook. Qaasim is featured in Momentum Knows No Boundaries. Photography by Katrina Wittkamp/Styling by Theresa DeMaria/Makeup by Leanna Ernest

Dr. Sonat Birnecker Hart, president of KOVAL, is featured in The Spirited Life. Birnecker Hart is wearing Frame suit, Ulla Johnson blouse, Neiman Marcus Northbrook. Photography by Maria Ponce/Styling by

prestige of Leslie Hindman Auctioneers, Cowan’s, and Freeman’s now under one timeless name.

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J.W. CONATSER

DUSTIN O’REGAN

JENNIFER STURGEON

KEMMIE RYAN

MORGAN HOGERTY, MEGAN WEISBERG

THERESA DEMARIA

ALLISON MELONE

REDDING WORTH

THOMAS CONNORS, RONI MOORE, MONICA KASS ROGERS, JOE ROSENTHAL

JORDAN WILLIAMS

DIANE IKO

NATALIE PHILLIPS

AMIN QUTTEINEH

ABDON LOERA, SAM SUAREZ

MONICA KASS ROGERS, MARIA PONCE, KATRINA WITTKAMP

ROBERT RISKO

GRETCHEN BARNARD

LAUREN ROSENBAUM

RAHEELA ANWAR, EILEEN BENNIN, RENEE CROWN, JEFFREY EISERMAN, MAUREEN GRINNELL, MORGAN HOGERTY, DANA HUGHES, JOYCE BRUCE JIARAS, JILL KATZ, LEXIE KNOX, YOANNA KULAS, ARTHUR MILLER, MEREDITH MITCHELL, SANDRA CASPARRIELLO, RONI MOORE NEUMANN, IBBY PINSKY, MONIQUE WATTS, AND REDDING WORTH

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Sheridan Road is published 10 times annually by JWC Media.

JWC Media accepts freelance contributions; however, there is no guarantee that unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, or graphics will be returned. All rights to the contents of this magazine are owned in full by JWC Media. Sheridan Road may not be reproduced in whole or in part, including but not limited to advertisements and articles, without written permission from the publisher. Sheridan Road assumes no responsibility for statements made or opinions expressed by contributing writers, editors, or advertisers. However, comments or corrections or di ering opinions are welcomed. e publisher reserves the right to edit and place all editorials and ads. © 2026 JWC Media

EDITOR’S N OTE

THIS MONTH I WILL BE

READING

Iron Lake, my third William Kent Krueger novel

Our December/January issue toasts the close of 2025 and the start of 2026, with pro les of rock legends, high-powered executives, and trailblazing distillers. Inspired by the season of giving, we then highlight Plaza del Lago—the luxury shopping destination everyone is raving about.

We kick things o with Highland Park’s resident rock superstar, Billy Corgan, who is celebrating the 30th anniversary of e Smashing Pumpkins’ iconic double album Mellon Collie and the In nite Sadness. Billy re ects on the renewed interest from younger fans seeking “real music” and a growing fan base across the Middle East. Check out the story’s sidebar for his sweet collab with Vosges Haut-Chocolat! Swapping albums for Google partnerships, our second feature highlights Winnetka’s Jessica Qaasim, Head of Industry for Google Marketing Platform Partnerships. She shares her leadership philosophy—the “3Ms: Mastery, Mindset, and Momentum”—o ering insight into what drives her success.

We trade high tech for highballs in our third feature, toasting Dr. Sonat Birnecker Hart, the president of KOVAL, an award-winning local gem and one of the largest independent, female-owned craft distilleries in the U.S.

Swapping paints for petals, Trending visits Highland Park’s Jamie Klein of Trails Flower Farm, whose oral designs brighten everyone’s day.

First Class transports us to e Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, for a tropical vacation hallmarked by luxurious accommodations, phenomenal cuisine, and abundant activities. Back in the U.S., Weekender heads to Saugatuck, where on a recent trip to Michigan’s “art coast,” I found that a small town can still live large. In search of a decadent holiday treat or New Year indulgence? Recipe has you covered.

GIFTING

My go-to gift for all my travel-minded friends: travel sets from Cartolina

We nish our features at Plaza del Lago, the North Shore’s new favorite shopping destination for beloved brands like Veronica Beard, LoveShackFancy, SPACE 519, Hill House Home, and so much more.

In Home Tour, designer Jessica Margot gives an inside look at a stunning North Shore estate. App founder Amy Briggs, whose virtual assistant scheduling app, Aviva, is a lifesaver for busy parents, shares her story in Parting Words. Here’s to a beautifully organized 2026.

WISHING

You all Happy Holidays and a very Happy New Year!

In Shore vs. City, we meet Ellen Castellini of Ellen Elizabeth Stitches, who creates beauty stitch by stitch with her painted and stitched needlepoint designs. Art & Artist spotlights multi-media artist Caren Helene Rudman, who explores the body, identity, and creative expression through her compelling work.

DUSTIN O’REGAN Editor-in-Chief dustin@jwcmedia.com

Follow Sheridan Road on Instagram: @sheridanrdmag

Dr. Sonat Birnecker Hart is featured in The Spirited Life Photography by Maria Ponce/ Styling by Theresa DeMaria/Hair & Makeup by Leanna Ernest

Billy Corgan is featured in Zero to 30 with Smashing Speed. Photography by Joseph Coltice

SHANA VITEK

EQUITY PARTNER

BEERMANN LLP

Shana Vitek is an Equity Partner at Beermann LLP, the largest family law firm in the country. For more than 20 years, she has practiced divorce and family law exclusively. She handles a wide range of cases, including divorces for business owners, high-profile and high-net-worth clients. Vitek’s ability to handle any type of case has allowed her to become one of only a few attorneys in Illinois to be Board Certified in Family Trial Law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. She is also a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and serves on the Board of Governors for the Illinois Chapter. “Every family is different, so each case that I handle needs an individualized approach,” she says. “All initial consultations include information about the alternatives to litigation and keeping the divorce process out of court.” In addition to being a litigator, Vitek is also a trained mediator, arbitrator, and collaborative attorney. If a case can be handled using a cooperative approach, that is her preferred process. “It is more respectful, allowing the parties to decide what is best for their family while maintaining confidentiality and keeping sensitive personal details out of the public record.” Vitek believes it is important to give back to the community. She is Chair of the Beermann LLP Family Law Clinic. In partnership with Chicago Volunteer Legal Services, this first of its kind family law clinic provides pro bono legal services to individuals going through domestic relations proceedings who could not otherwise afford legal representation. “We feel strongly about giving back to the community, and given the size of our firm, we are in a unique position to make a big difference for clients who would otherwise go unrepresented in family law matters,” says Vitek. For more information visit beermannlaw.com/team/shana-l-vitek.

FINDS, OPINIONS, OBSESSIONS

Shore vs City’s Ellen Castellini wearing Veronica Beard dress, Neiman Marcus Northbrook.

Photography by Maria Ponce/ Styling by Theresa DeMaria/Hair & Makeup by Leanna Ernest

AGENDA

SAVE the DATE

Sheridan Road provides the North Shore’s comprehensive social calendar.

EDITED BY UMA LYNCH

THROUGH DEC 12

HOLIDAY SHOPPING

WHERE: Centered by Design, Glencoe

Celebrate the season with Centered by Design and shop a curated selection of designer pillows, vintage accessories, and one-of-a-kind gifts sourced with intention and care. centeredbydesign.com

THROUGH DEC 14

MIRACLE ON SOUTH DIVISION STREET

WHERE: Citadel eatre

e Nowaks of Bu alo, New York, have always believed in their family’s miraculous Christmas Eve story—until daughter Ruth decides to turn it into a one-woman show. A deathbed confession threatens to unravel the legend, forcing the Nowaks to confront their faith, family, and hilarious hidden truths in this heartfelt holiday comedy. Miracle On South Division Street is directed by Scott Shallenbarger. citadeltheatre.org

THROUGH JAN 4

LIGHTSCAPE

WHERE: Chicago Botanic Garden

e enchanting after-dark illuminated trail created just for the Chicago Botanic Garden dazzles with brand-new installations from around the world and vistas transformed with light, art, and music. On November 19, December 4, and January 2, enjoy a festive, adults-only evening where you can let your merry side shine, complete with specialty

cocktails and mocktails. chicagobotanic.org/lightscape

THROUGH JAN 5

STRANGE REALITIES

WHERE: e Art Institute of Chicago is exhibition is drawn from the Art Institute of Chicago’s rich and historic collection of drawings and prints, including the largest collection in America of the French artists Odilon Redon and Paul Gauguin. e exhibition features more than 85 works that capture the beauty and strangeness of a mysterious generation of artists. artic.edu

THROUGH JAN 5

CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD

WHERE: Gri n Museum of Science and Industry e 83rd annual Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light features more than 50 trees and displays, each lovingly decorated by community volunteers who share family and cultural traditions drawing from their global heri-

tage. Placed throughout the trees are displays representing international seasonal celebrations of light, like Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Diwali, and more. gri nmsi.org

DECEMBER 3

THE GILDED GALA

WHERE: Driehaus Museum Driehaus Museum’s annual Gilded Gala returns beginning with a reception followed by dinner and a program. e evening will honor John Vinci, Philip Hamp, and Vinci | Hamp Architects in recognition of their pioneering restoration work, historic preservation advocacy, and contributions to Chicago’s cultural landscape and built environment. driehausmuseum.org/gala

DECEMBER 5 – 28

THE NUTCRACKER

WHERE: Lyric Opera House e Jo rey Ballet celebrates the 10th anniversary of two-time Tony Award-winning choreographer Christopher Wheeldon’s e Nutcracker. Magic is on the

horizon for young Marie and the Nutcracker Prince, thanks to a visit from the mysterious Great Impresario. At the stroke of midnight on Christmas Eve, Marie sets out on an unforgettable journey through Chicago’s 1893 World’s Fair, a marvel of sights, sounds, and entertainment. jo rey.org

DECEMBER 5 – 7

A FLAMENCO CHRISTMAS

WHERE: St. Mary of the Lake, Chicago; Northwestern University, Evanston; National Museum of Mexican Art, Chicago e Newberry Consort celebrates the holiday season with the music and dance of the Iberian Peninsula and Latin America. Co-curated with the Hispanic arts group Arte Puro, this concert features music from the zambomba tradition, where neighbors gather around a re to sing Christmas villancicos to the rhythms of amenco, along with live amenco dancing. newberryconsort.org

Jean Delville’s Medusa, 1893, is featured in the Art Institute of Chicago’s exhibition Strange Realities. Regenstein Endowment Fund. Through January

AGENDA

DECEMBER 7

HOLIDAY HOME TOUR

WHERE: Start at Lake Blu History Museum

Looking for holiday decorating inspiration or something fun to jump-start the season? e Lake Blu History Holiday Home Tour is a great opportunity to pick up new ideas while enjoying the creativity and traditions of Lake Blu residents who dress their homes up for the holidays. lakeblu history.org/events

DECEMBER 13

BREAKTHROUGH T1D

ILLINOIS GALA

WHERE: McCormick Place

Join Breakthrough T1D for their 10th fundraising Gala. Enjoy an unforgettable evening featuring an expansive silent auction, one-of-akind live auction, seated dinner, award-winning live entertainment, and a night of fundraising all in support of the diabetes community. breakthrought1d.org

DEC 18 – JAN 4

ANNIE

WHERE: e George Van Dusen eatre

For more than 100 years, the beloved story of a spunky, red-headed orphan who lands a holiday stay with Oliver “Daddy” Warbucks, a billionaire trying to do good, has delighted and inspired audiences around the world. Perfect for the holidays and the whole family, Annie, winner of seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical, features some of the greatest musical theatre hits ever written. musictheaterworks.com

DECEMBER 19 – 20

KWIAT TRUNK SHOW

WHERE: Razny Jewelers, Highland Park

Join Razny Jewelers for an exclusive Kwiat Trunk Show. Guests will have the opportunity to see and try on a curated selection of the brand’s latest designs, including blue sapphire and diamond drop earrings, tiara diamond line bracelets,

and diamond pendant necklaces. Discover the perfect pieces to elevate your holiday look. razny.com/blog/kwiattrunk-show-dec-2025-in-highland-park/

DECEMBER 31

NEW YEAR’S

ROCKABILLY EVE

WHERE: e Marriott eatre, Lincolnshire

Join the cast of Million Dollar Quartet Christmas for a one-of-a-kind evening of classic rock n’ roll tunes from a bygone era and the search for the perfect New Year’s song. marriotttheatre.com

JANUARY 3

TRIPTYCH: WORK BY KATE BERRY BROWN, VANESSA FILLEY, AND DARREN OBERTO

WHERE: Grove Gallery, Evanston

Geometric Abstraction is the focus of three artists who address themes of parenthood and belonging. Media include

oil painting, drawing, and gurative work. Mark-making and repetition are evident. kateberrybrown.com, vanessa lley.squarespace.com, dmoberto.com

JAN 28 – FEB 1

DISCOVER® BOATING

CHICAGO BOAT SHOW

WHERE: Donald E. Stephenson Convention Center, Rosemont

e iconic Chicago boat event, the largest of its kind, is always a fun weekend featuring hundreds of boat companies showing their newest boats in cold January. is annual fun, sunny respite has been held in Chicago for more than 80 years. chicagoboatshow.com

FEBRUARY 7

CHICAGO YOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA GALA

WHERE: e Four

Seasons Chicago Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra celebrates the power of music at its 2026 Gala. cyso.org

The Jo rey Ballet’s The Nutcracker. Dancers Zachary Manske, Yumi Kanazawa, Hyuma Kiyosawa. Photography by Katie Miller

December 5 – 28

More Than Storage. It’s a

Lifestyle

Luxe Corsa Auto Suites isn’t just a place to store your cars— it’s an elite community where speed, style, and sophistication converge. The development features 121 meticulously crafted luxury auto suites, each o ering a private, secure, and customizable space to showcase and store your prized vehicles.

Available Units & Features

Fully climate controlled • Modern pedestrian door • Stylish curated bathroom with walk-in shower • LED lighting throughout • Insulated walls, ceilings and garage door • 100 AMP electric service • Commercial-grade overhead garage door • Wood staircase & railings to mezzanine level • Upgrades & customization via onsite designer • Multiple units can be combined “pre-construction” only

PREMIUM TYPE A UNITS

30’ x 50’ + mezzanine 30’ x 31’ = 2,430 total square feet ( ts approximately 6 cars and 3 motorcycles)

STANDARD TYPE B UNITS

23’ x 50’ + mezzanine 23’ x 31’ = 1,863 total square feet ( ts approximately 4 cars and 2 motorcycles)

The rst 50 buyers Will be automatically entered for a chance to win a trip to the 2026 MONACO

Email or call for current availability info@luxecorsa.com (224) 662-0000 Images of customized units.

“We just installed all new windows at our house and we love them! Before we made our decision we went to the manufacturer’s plant to see how the windows were made. We were concerned at ﬁrst because Russ’s price was more than half of his competitor’s quoted price. After our tour we were very comfortable with our decision. Installation day was quick and painless. Our house was left in great condition. I highly recommend this company!”

a subtle refresh or a full transformation, Warner and Dr. Krishna Patel deliver refined face and body. Start your journey today!

With over a decade of medical expertise, Licensed Aesthetician Rene Nava has been a vital part of The Warner Institute since 2020, helping shape its renowned Medical Spa and redeﬁne corrective skincare. Passionate about empowering others through aesthetics, Rene’s personalized, innovative approach has earned the trust of countless clients across the Northshore. Constantly reﬁning her craft, she stays at the forefront of advanced aesthetic techniques. Outside the spa, Rene enjoys

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HOME BUT ALONE NO MORE A STATESIDE DEBUT

Lake Forest’s e Gallery exhibits renowned German artist Daniela Polz in ELEMENTS, on display through January 2026. Trained in ceramics in Germany and the United Kingdom, Polz combines traditional craftsmanship with an exploratory approach to materials such as textiles and paintings and has participated in numerous exhibitions, residencies and symposia across Europe. e Gallery is thrilled to host the artist’s U.S. debut featuring a collection of paintings that uniquely combine printmaking, acrylic, and mixed media. daniela-polz.de, thegallerylf.com.

BILL

KURTIS: A FRONT-ROW SEAT TO HISTORY

In this captivating account, author John Abendshien tells the story of how he and his family resided in what became one of American cinema’s most iconic houses during the lming of the classic Christmas movie Home Alone. Abendshien takes readers into all the backstories—how the location was chosen, what it was like when a Hollywood production invaded his home, how certain scenes were lmed, and how some of those crazy stunts didn’t always go as planned. Abendshien thought once lming ended, life would go back to normal, but then the movie exploded into a global phenomenon. Suddenly, his home became a magnet for tourists, sightseers, fans—and it never stopped. Abendshien describes his personal journey through this experience and how, in the end, the Home Alone home wasn’t just his house anymore—it was everyone’s home. And when you’re part of something this big, you’re never really “home alone.” For more information, visit homebutalonenomore.com.

Starting with his coverage of the largest tornado in Kansas history, legendary correspondent, anchorman, and producer Bill Kurtis details his whirlwind career reporting American history as it unfolded—from the Chicago Seven to Charles Manson to Agent Orange—in his new memoir, Whirlwind: My Life Reporting the News. A fast-paced, entertaining, and inspiring story, his journey reveals the potent mix of talent and luck in the network era of television. From his beginnings as a kid from Kansas working in local radio and TV to pay for college and law school, Kurtis had a hunger for storytelling and truth. His riveting coverage of the 1966 Topeka Tornado launched him into broadcast journalism, and within four years, he had reported on four of the century’s biggest trials. As a correspondent for Cronkite’s CBS Evening News, anchorman at Chicago’s revolutionary WBBM-TV, and co-anchor with Dianne Sawyer, Kurtis brought history to viewers in real time, recalling iconic moments of the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s with honesty and insight. Whirlwind: My Life Reporting the News is available at Lake Forest Book Store, lakeforestbookstore.com.

John Abendshien on the steps of the Home Alone house

CAHILL OWNERS BRANDON DELFINO & CHRIS MCNELLY

EDITED BY DUSTIN O’REGAN

SHORE CITY

After finding fulfillment in both the analytic and artistic worlds, Ellen Castellini has now beautifully intertwined the two. After a career as a CPA in public accounting and private equity, followed by a period devoted to raising her four young children, Castellini sought a creative pursuit that would bring her calm in the chaos of motherhood, connection with other women, and a renewed sense of purpose. When she picked up a needlepoint canvas at a friend’s suggestion, she discovered something transformative: the gentle discipline of craftsmanship; the artistry of color and texture; and the soulful satisfaction of creating meaning one stitch at a time. What began as a quiet hobby has blossomed into a full professional practice. Through her company, Ellen Elizabeth Stitches, Castellini designs, paints, stitches, finishes, and teaches needlepoint. Her unique background allows her to combine a mathematician’s mind with an artist’s eye. Through both her exclusive creations and brand partnerships, Castellini’s canvases bring a fresh, modern sensibility to a classic art form, celebrating the joy of creating something entirely by hand. A St. Charles native, Castellini, her husband, Tim, a Winnetka native, and their four children call the North Shore home. She puts down her canvas to share her city and shore favorites with Sheridan Road

EDITED BY MORGAN

HOGERTY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA

PONCE

STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA HAIR & MAKEUP BY LEANNA ERNEST

What’s on the horizon? e canvases I created in collaboration with Sunny Esler of Tigre de Tartán are for sale at multiple needlepoint stores. I am particularly excited about an event with Neighbors of Kenilworth in April Mantra? “Be where your feet are” Best grooming tip? Don’t wear makeup often and people will think you look great when you do Guilty pleasure?

Nerds Gummy Clusters Favorite foods? Oysters, Caesar salad with extra anchovies, my husband’s let mignon, and French fries Music you love? Every playlist I have will have some Broadway on it—which is why I never oversee the speaker. No one wants Les Mis at happy hour Best advice ever given to you? Ask for what you want Best

advice you’ve given? Assume good motives from everyone Earliest memory? Seeing my mom and knowing I’m safe When you wake up, you? Try to get four kids out the door without being too late Before bed, you? Have a glass of wine with my husband and stitch in bed What’s on your bookshelf? I just reread Project Hail Mary and can’t wait for the movie You can’t live without? My emotional support water bottle Love to escape to? e Wisconsin Northwoods Advice you would give to your younger self? Calm down honey, it’ll be okay

ON THE SHORE IN THE CITY

Your style is? Paddle clothes during the day, and a cozy sweater and jeans in the evening Can’t leave the house without?

A needlepoint project Transportation? Minivan for life Driving music? Dictated by my children Place to eat? Fred’s Garage, Pomeroy, Aboyer Shop? e Classic Stitch Best thing about the Shore? Sacred Heart School and the North eld community Worst thing about the Shore? e distance from my parents in St. Charles The perfect day is? A cappuccino, a long walk to a playground, a paddle match, a babysitter who comes two hours before our dinner reservation, bed by 9

Your style is? I try to wear sleeker lines and neutrals … but the ru es and orals still happen Can’t leave the house without? A needlepoint project that can t in a small clutch Transportation? Walking Driving music? Country Place to eat? Bar Mar, Trivoli Tavern, Sparrow Shop? ird Coast Stitches Best thing about the City? e walkability— especially on the lakefront Worst thing about the City? Parking and tra c The perfect day is? A draft latte from La Colombe while stitching, a long, slow walk around the lake and through the Gold Coast, brunch at the 3 Arts Club Café, a nap, an early dinner, and a show

Ellen Castellini wearing Cinq à Sept sweater and L’AGENCE skirt, Neiman Marcus Northbrook

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Your weekend, wherever you are.

Get the digital North Shore Weekend— free in your inbox every Friday.

FASHION & BEAUTY

Akris Denim-Black doubleface wool plaid cardigan jacket, Denim-Black wool flannel plaid oversized blouse with flap pockets and fitted blouse with flap pockets, Navy cashmere silk turtleneck, Denim-Black double-face wool half-pleated A-line mini skirt, Anouk little messenger in black cervocalf, akris.com Find more “Alpine Chic” looks in the Fashion feature.

LIVING AND DRESSING WELL

PEAK STYLE

Alpine ﬂair meets innovative beauty for a winter season deﬁned by elegance and edge.

FASHION ALPINE CHIC

01 Goldbergh Lieke Vegan Fur Stretch-Nylon Ski Suit, modaoperandi.com 02 Bogner Ingrid Fair Isle Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater, modaoperandi.com 03 Marion Parke Sawyer Loafer, marionparke.com 04 DARKPARK Khris Herringbone Cotton-Blend Barrel-Leg Pants, modaoperandi.com 05 Nour Hammour Uma Belted Oversized Shearling Coat, modaoperandi.com 06 Saint Laurent Head Wrap, Saint Laurent Chicago, 312-202-0166 07 Cordova Fernie Ski Suit, modaoperandi.com 08 Ienki Ienki Chalet Quilted Down Denim Pants, modaoperandi.com 09 e Row Mantia Scarf, neapolitan collection, 847-441-7784 10 White & Warren Cashmere Coatigan, whiteandwarren.com 11 Saint Laurent Turtleneck, Saint Laurent Chicago, 312-202-0166 12 RÙADH e Blane Checked Wool Cardigan, modaoperandi.com 13 Saint Laurent Ski Goggles, Saint Laurent Chicago, 312-202-0166 14 Saint Laurent Tote, Saint Laurent Chicago, 312-202-0166 15 Leset Rio Jersey Stirrup Pants, modaoperandi.com 16 Perfect Moment JG Stretch-Nylon Ski Suit, modaoperandi.com

EDITED BY ALLISON MELONE

BEAUTY GEAR & GADGETS

EDITED BY ALLISON MELONE

Move Confdently...

like you own the place

CULTURE & ARTS

THE NORTH SHORE’S MOST CREATIVE PURSUITS

BODIES, THREADS, MEANING

Examining the ways we shape identity— through art, expression, and craft.

Caren Helene Rudman wearing Ferragamo, Neiman Marcus Northbrook. Behind Rudman is her work Quiet Reﬂections, 2025, acrylic on plexiglass, 48” x 60”.

ART & ARTIST

IT’S PERSONAL

Artist Caren Helene Rudman draws from her own experience to connect with women everywhere.

WORDS BY THOMAS CONNORS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP

STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA

HAIR & MAKEUP BY LEANNA ERNEST

SHERIDAN ROAD 54

Caren Helene Rudman wearing TOTEME Boucle sweater and pant, Neiman Marcus Northbrook. Behind Rudman is Statistic in Pink, 2022, acrylic on canvas with plexiglass panels, 48” x 72”.

ART & ARTIST

Art may express nothing more than the maker’s joy in the manipulation of color, form, and materials. It might capture a moment in history or stand as a political statement. But no matter what, it is always a highly personal enterprise. For Caren Helene Rudman, whose media include photographs and paint, canvas and plexiglass, art is a vessel to explore the fragility of the esh and the resilience of the spirit. As one who carries the hereditary BRCA1 gene, which signals an increased risk for breast and ovarian cancers, Rudman seeks to “blur the lines between mind and body, between inner and outer worlds.”

Raised in Highland Park, Rudman moved to New York shortly after getting married and earned an MA from New York University, in association with the International Center of Photography, where its director, photographer, and educator, Eileen Kaye Berger, became a lifelong mentor. “She introduced me to the world of feminist art, from performance artists like Carolee Schneemann, Eva Hesse and her use of alternative materials, and photographers Cindy Sherman and Nan Goldin. e program was intense, but in those three years, I was absorbing all things contemporary art. I was reading literary theory and critical thinking and, as a result, my work grew and morphed in dramatic ways.”

Exposed to wildly divergent notions of art and artmaking, Rudman experimented. After attending a class on the body, in which she learned about chakras and stressors, Rudman’s work evolved into what is known as body art, which emerged from the conceptual art of the 1970s as a path to addressing gender, identity, and the relationship of mind and body. Looking back at those formative days in the late 1980s, Rudman observes, “ e most important lesson out of the program was that all art is political and the personal is political. At the same time, it was expected that what is personal also transcends into a universal truth or exploration. at is the push/pull of being an artist. My hope is that my work can touch someone in a personal way that resonates beyond me.”

Now & Then, 2025, acrylic on duralax and plexiglass, 48” x 60”.

Photography by Travis Roozée

Quiet Reﬂections, 2025 acrylic on plexiglass, 48” x 60”.

Photography by Travis Roozée

Breath of the Tides, 2025, acrylic paint on duralax and plexiglass, 40” x 60”. Photography by Travis Roozée

ART & ARTIST

How Do We Know?, 2025, acrylic on plexiglass panels, 24” x 24”.

, 2025, acrylic on duralax and plexiglass, 40” x 60”.

Rudman took the personal public when, after undergoing prophylactic life-saving surgery, she became a patient speaker/ advocate, a witness to the reality of BRCA. “ ere was a seminar on the art of storytelling, so I brought slides of my work that were re ective of how I processed increased cancer risks. at led me to start curating, to place my own work into a larger context of art and healing.”

From 2010 to 2012, Rudman organized the group exhibition Voices and Visions; Standing on the Bridge Between Health and Disease at e Art Center Highland Park. In 2017, she mounted Unde nable: Women’s Health in America at the Evanston Art Center, which showcased the work of several female artists whose work explored a range of issues, from reproductive rights to the challenges of caretaking. In 2024, Rudman retired as sta curator at e Art Center Highland Park and refocused on her own work, partnering with artist Kelly Mathews on A Whisper 2 A Scream: e Mental, e Physical, and a NeuroArt Journey, in conjunction with the international NeuroArts Blueprint Initiative, supported by Johns Hopkins and the Aspen Institute. Rudman has been exhibiting with Chicago’s Alma Gallery since 2023 and in March, debuted a large installation, Spring Transitions. In October, she joined artists Daniel Kim, Deborah Newmark, and Takako in a Bridgeport Art Community show titled Human Nature at Vjosa Café & Events. Currently, she is working with designer and photographer Susan Aurinko on her LensFlair Editions, collaboratively creating a scarf to bene t the Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation.

After 30 years, Rudman’s urge to create and connect remains strong “When you make work from the body, it is from the inside out,” she notes. “I do not use a sketchbook or projections but rather work intuitively. e action is like a meditation or pouring your emotions outward. It doesn’t matter what the medium is or what I am creating; the common thread is this process. It is always connected to the sense of self in relation to the world, the fragility and strength of the body, and the hope that we nd meaning through this act of expression.”

For more information, visit carenhelenerudman.com and lens aireditions.com.

Photography by Caren Helene Rudman

Slipping Away, 2025, acrylic on plexiglass panels 35” x 47.5”.

Photography by Travis Roozée

Solstace

Photography by Travis Roozée

Take your next step with the bull at your back

With Merrill, you get a plan and a path forward.

Life and ﬁnances can get complex. At Merrill, you get a personalized plan that connects your ﬁnances with your life. And we’re here to help you navigate it every step of the way.

Let’s have a conversation.

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Merrill Lynch Wealth Management fa.ml.com/kilborn-phillips

F.J. Phillips

Senior Vice President

Wealth Management Advisor

847.564.7203

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Tom Kilborn

Managing Director

Wealth Management Advisor

847.564.7201

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THE ACCIDENTAL FLOWER FARMER

“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” is quote by Maya Angelou de nes Jamie Klein’s surprising journey into the world of ower farming. As a mom of four (ages 17, 15, 10, and 8), Klein never imagined “ ower farmer” would appear on her life’s resume. But in 2022, upon the gentle advice of fellow hockey mom Stacey Laschen of @sweet_es_ owers, Klein started by growing 10 dahlia plants. Today, her Trails Flower Farm, a micro ower farm in Highland Park, has just completed its fourth growing season. Being part of an entire life cycle—from selecting the varieties to planting, watering, harvesting, and arranging to giving the blossoms away through @growingkindnessproject or selling to orists—is deeply ful lling. Between tending to her elds and creating bouquets, Klein shares how she stays inspired and connected.

ON HER NIGHTSTAND

“Fresh owers, of course! e Johnny’s Selected Seeds 2026 catalog (fun fact: we are nearly done buying for 2026 and will soon begin 2027). I am currently reading Cancer is Complicated by Clea Shearer, an amazing read. You’ll also nd my Coco Wyo coloring books with Ohuhu Markers, and my favorite goop lip balm that I use religiously before bed and in the morning (highly recommend as a holiday gift/stocking stu er).”

IN HER EARBUDS

“Taylor Swift always and forever. I’m obsessed with the new album. Also loving Justin Bieber’s latest, anything by Ed Sheeran, Maroon 5, AJR, and Sombr. Recently, I started tuning into podcasts—I love deepening my knowledge with ower industry podcasts. While I am working in the elds, I switch to e World’s First Podcast with Erin & Sara Foster, Not Skinny But Not Fat, and Call Her Daddy.”

ON HER MOBILE

“Instagram is my only form of social media. It allows me to connect with all my passions— owers, yoga, interior design, and Diet Coke. For owers, it’s amazing because we’ve connected with growers all over the country—with plans to visit some in person, @rivermerlefarm, you’re up rst! Other favorite ower accounts are @mackenzienancarrowdesigns, @yodanigirl, and @lexi.lexi.lexi. On the aspirational side, I love following e Food Nanny and Ballerina Farm. Learning to make sourdough is on my 2026 wish list!”

Jamie Klein wearing L’AGENCE, Neiman

Marcus Northbrook

TRAVEL & CUISINE

JOURNEYS & INDULGENCES

Enjoy two dreamy destinations, one decadent dessert, and a cocktail to toast the season.

breakfast crafted by Wickwood Inn’s General Manager and Executive Chef Rose Duong. This month’s Weekender feature highlights a stay at the Wickwood Inn in Saugatuck, Michigan

MAUI MAGIC

A fall getaway to e Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua was the perfect mix of celebration, relaxation, and island adventure.

WORDS BY DUSTIN O’REGAN PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE RITZ-CARLTON MAUI, KAPALUA

As a fall escape, I headed to Maui with my best friend to mark our children’s 21st birthdays. My last trip to the island had been as a pre-teen, so my return decades later felt nostalgic. Some things were just as I remembered—the warm “aloha” greetings and those postcard-perfect colors of the emerald-green Cook pines (named after Captain Cook), ocean blues, golden beaches, and black lava rock trimmed with wild fountain grass. Yet, thanks to e Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua’s wide range of activities, this vacation was awash in new experiences, creating a raft of new memories.

Upon arrival, fragrant orchid leis landed around our necks, and we were whisked away to our room in the Napili Wing. Our balcony overlooked it all—the pools, the ocean, and neighboring Moloka’i. Inside, grasscloth-covered walls and Hawaiian artwork set a chic, but relaxed tone.

View from ocean, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua

FIRST CLASS

Best decision ever? Adding access to the Club Lounge. It quickly became our go-to retreat, with sweeping views of Bay Course, the hotel’s championship golf course, and the Paci c Ocean. e food and drink lineup was nonstop with culinary presentations at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Favorites included custom omelets in the morning, buttery scallops with chili oil in the afternoon, white chocolate macadamia nut cookies at all hours (dangerously addictive), and handcrafted cocktails at sunset. While enjoying our meals on the lounge terrace, we were entertained by the antics of three playful kittens, who live on the property. e trio’s shiny coats, plump bellies, and friendly personalities were a testament to the resort’s policy of feeding its resident felines.

Adventures

While we spent plenty of time poolside and at the beach, we couldn’t resist two activities: a Coastal Hike and a Pickleball lesson.

Our hike along the Kapalua Coastal Trail started at the Ambassadors Hale (also known as “the Department of Fun”). e 3-mile route took us rst past Honokahua, a sacred burial site preserved for Native Hawaiians. When the resort was being built in the early ’90s, ancestral remains were discovered. In response, the company decided to set aside that oceanfront property, preserving it for local Hawaiians who visit to honor their ancestors.

From there, we wound past sand dunes, mangroves, and sparkling bays where sea turtles glided through crystal-clear water. Our guide pointed out seabirds nesting in burrowed tunnels, their u y chicks peeking out from the openings, and shared how whale season (January–March) transforms Maui Nui Basin into what locals call “whale soup” as the shallow, mostly predator-free waters of the area are popular with mama whales giving birth. Along the way, we discovered multiple beaches, each with its own personality—from Ironwood’s solitude to D.T. Fleming’s surf breaks to Kapalua Bay’s calm, family-friendly waters.

Club Lounge seating

Pool View from Lanai

Coastal Hike

Club Life

FIRST CLASS

On the return, we strolled past the Maui Pineapple Chapel, a charming reminder that the resort sits on what was once a pineapple plantation.

For decades, Hawaii was known for its pineapple trade, which began in the 19th century. e decline came in the ’80s, with Dole closing its last facility in the early 2000s. Still, you’ll spot nods to the pineapple throughout the resort—the chandeliers in the welcome hallway are one fun example.

Later, we swapped hiking shoes for sneakers and tried Pickleball in Paradise with pro Brooke Revuelta. Between volleys and laughter, we had an absolute “ball,” and now understand why this game has taken over the world.

Before we left the Hale, we checked out the activity chart. e resort o ers more than 70 activities designed for every age and interest. After the devastation of the Lahaina res, some travelers worried there wouldn’t be enough entertainment on the island. e Ritz-Carlton rose to the occasion with a lineup that has something for everyone: bucket golf and tness classes; turtle and whale programs; cultural immersion experiences; and even s’mores under the stars.

Eat, Sip, Repeat

Dining at the Ritz is a full-on experience. At e Banyan Tree, I devoured mahi mahi in a brown-butter yuzu-miso sauce, while my friend ordered a seafood curry loaded with scallops, prawns, and local sh. After opting to share the Brussels sprouts dusted with lilikoi-pineapple, we celebrated our “healthy choice” with a decadent chocolate cake topped with blackberry curd and goat cheese mousse. Award-winning wine sealed the deal. e Banyan Tree received the 2025 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence and is recognized as one of the world’s best destinations for wine enthusiasts. Cheers!

For casual days, the Burger Shack delivered ocean breezes, margaritas, and burgers—plus a curious ock of chickens. e Alaloa Lounge came alive at sunset with sushi, cocktails, and live music, while the Kai Cafe kept us fueled with morning pastries.

Banyan Tree at entrance to The Banyan Tree restaurant

Sea Turtle

Catch of the Day

FIRST CLASS

Spa & Sun Deck Days

One afternoon at e Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua Spa, I surrendered to a traditional lomilomi massage, a rhythmic Hawaiian ritual that uses coconut oil and feels both grounding and luxurious. Spa access also meant time in the steam room and alternating between hot and cold plunges. Another afternoon, we lingered by the pool in a private cabana, enjoying William Kent Krueger novels and the resort’s famous banana bread. With a 20,000-square-foot sundeck, layered pools, and shaded cabanas, we had plenty of places to “lounge.”

Aloha, Again

From coastal hikes and Pickleball laughs to scallops, sunsets, and spa indulgence, e Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua was everything I needed for a joyful return to the island. So, I was surprised when a taxi driver shared that tourism is down by half since the Lahaina res of two years ago. e people of Maui are ready to welcome visitors back; support this beautiful community by booking your dream vacation now. Maika‘i kāu huaka‘i—have a great trip.

For more information, visit ritzcarlton.com.

Pool cabanas

Live music at Alaloa Lounge

A MIDWEST ESCAPE

Saugatuck, Michigan, o ers boutique hospitality, farm-to-table avors, and a creative lakeshore scene.

WORDS BY DUSTIN O’REGAN

The Wickwood Inn dining room

For years, I have heard friends speak fondly of Michigan’s “art coast,” describing Saugatuck as a place where creativity blends with culinary air and lakeside luxury. eir stories drew me in, and on a recent sojourn, I discovered a Midwest town that proves small can still live large.

At the center of my stay was the newly reimagined Wickwood Inn, a boutique hotel where history, hospitality, and high design converge. e inn, a beloved historic white clapboard former private home with an East Coast feel, has been entirely reimagined by Soucie Horner Design Collective. Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, the acclaimed Chicago-based rm, internationally known for timeless design and custom creations like SHIIR Rugs, recently rebranded with an expanded vision that now encompasses bespoke hospitality. Founders Shea Soucie and Martin Horner approached Wickwood Inn as more than a renovation. e inn is now a living expression of their design ethos—layered with curated antiques, original art, and sumptuous materials like hand-embroidered rugs, silk drapery, handcrafted linens, plush cashmere throws, and xtures that re ect quiet sophistication. Many of the furnishings and artworks throughout the inn are available for purchase. So, guests have the rare opportunity to take a piece of their stay home, making for the ultimate travel souvenir.

e inn boasts 14 individually designed guest accommodations and an atmosphere that feels at once elevated and e ortlessly welcoming. I stayed in Suite No.11 overlooking the front gardens and Butler Street, the town’s main street. A long hallway led to a spacious and beautifully appointed bedroom complete with a chaise lounge and writing desk. Rows of tall windows ooded the room with warm, natural light.

When I return with my family, I will book the three-bedroom Bungalow, nestled within the inn’s English garden at the back of the property. It o ers a more expansive retreat with a shared pool and entertainment area.

e inn is as much about culinary experiences as it is about design aesthetics. Each day begins with a farm-to-table breakfast crafted by General Manager and Executive Chef Rose Duong (who honed her culinary skills working with Oprah Winfrey for 17 years) and her team, featuring seasonally inspired dishes that celebrate Michigan’s bounty. Afternoon brings a convivial social hour with artisanal cheeses and charcuterie, while evenings are marked by garden feasts paired with local wines.

Beyond the inn, Saugatuck has blossomed into a bona de culinary destination thanks to chefs like Matthew Millar of e Southerner and James Beard Award-winner Missy Corey of Pennyroyal Café & Provisions. I fell in love with Noble Twist Taphouse, renowned for its thin-crust pizzas. I had the tastiest pie of my life while my friends raved about their clam pizza. One night, we dined at Clearbrook Golf Club’s Grill Room, which serves classic Midwestern supper club fare like massive martinis and phenomenal white sh. e portions are generous, so arrive hungry.

Exterior of the Wickwood Inn

Wickwood Inn guest room

WEEKENDER

e arts scene is equally compelling. Ox-Bow School of Art, a cornerstone of Saugatuck’s creative life, has welcomed artists for generations. It’s also where Jim Henson famously created Kermit the Frog—everyone’s favorite amphibian.

On a sunny morning, we boarded the Saugatuck Chain Ferry (dubbed Diane and the only remaining hand-cranked chain ferry in the U.S.) to cross the Kalamazoo River to get to Oval Beach. ere we enjoyed a beautiful brunch picnic designed by Sincerely K & J and a photo shoot in the dunes with Lake Michigan as our backdrop. My friends from New York couldn’t believe we were sitting beside a “lake”—with no opposite shore in sight, it felt like the ocean. Afterward, we hiked up the Mount Baldhead Trail for a sweeping view. If time had allowed, we would have conquered the famous Mount Baldhead steps, but we had a boat ride scheduled with Retro Boat Rentals, where you can rent boats ranging from pontoon party boats to vintage boats from the late 50s and early 60s, sporting colorful nishes and chrome ns.

e next afternoon, I wandered downtown (steps from the inn), where the sweet scent of wa e cones drifted from Kilwins Chocolate and Ice Cream, mingling with the notes of a jazz musician, while golden retrievers happily lapped treats from bowls outside each artisan shop. I picked up handcrafted fruit preserves at American Spoon, made with 100 percent Michigan-grown fruit, and sampled wines from Fenn Valley Vineyards at the vineyard’s Butler Street tasting room. Apparently, Michigan’s lake breezes and rolling hills create a surprisingly perfect terroir for delicious wine. You’ll nd several art galleries, but if you only have time to pop into one, James Brandess Studios & Gallery is a must!

On my last morning, Chef Rose explained that the Wickwood Inn is not only a haven for small groups but also an inspired setting for larger gatherings—whether a wedding celebration, a family reunion, or even a corporate retreat. From food to owers, the sta collaborates with guests to create unforgettable events, drawing on close relationships with local farms and orists to ensure every detail feels authentic.

Another Saugatuck project by Soucie Horner Design Collective available for booking is Fairview, a beautifully restored 1857 home where old-world character meets modern comfort in a richly layered setting. Antique lovers will nd it irresistible.

While sipping wine in the Wickwood Inn’s garden at sunset, devouring one of Chef Rose’s delicious meals, or exploring the neighboring arts district, I kept thinking, “ is is no ordinary small-town getaway.” e trip proved that charm and sophistication need not be mutually exclusive, and that a lakeside escape in Michigan can rival the most coveted destinations. And with Saugatuck just a three-hour scenic drive from Chicago’s North Shore or a quick half-hour ight from O’Hare, it is remarkably close to home. What are you waiting for?

For more information, visit wickwoodinn.com, souciehorner.com, nobletwist.com, clearbrookgolfclub.com, sincerelykandjmi.com, spoon.com.

Wickwood Inn living room with a view into the study

Bathroom

My Wickwood Inn suite

REFINED BY RAZNY

FRESH WAYS TO WEAR YOUR FAVORITE JEWELRY THIS HOLIDAY

WORDS BY CHRISTINE RAZNY PORTER, RAZNY JEWELERS

Christine Razny-Porter

With the holidays approaching, now is the perfect time to reimagine how you style the jewelry you already own and love. e beauty of thoughtful styling lies in its ability to make each piece feel fresh and intentional, transforming your collection into something uniquely yours. Whether dressing for a gathering, soirée or a quiet evening by the ﬁre, these styling tips can help add a festive ﬂair to any look.

Embrace mixed metals

Combine the warmth of yellow gold, the sleek sheen of white gold and the romantic glow of rose gold for a look that feels elevated and on-trend. Layering diﬀerent tones adds depth and individuality, allowing each metal to beautifully complement the others. Start with your preferred base and accent it with contrasting hues for a polished, modern ﬁnish.

Personalized and meaningful jewelry

e best initial necklaces oﬀer a subtle way to add a personal touch to everyday style. Delicate yet meaningful. e letter you wear can symbolize whatever holds the most signiﬁcance: your own name, a child’s name or a meaningful word. Today, jewelry customization has reached a new level of self-expression. You can design your own piece by choosing the metal, gemstones, engraving, style, size, or shape.

Mix, match, and layer necklaces

Create dimension by pairing necklaces of diﬀerent lengths, textures, and styles. Mix delicate chains with pendants or add a bold link to anchor the look. A good guideline is to vary necklace lengths by about two to four inches between each layer. is spacing creates enough separation for each piece to stand out while still feeling cohesive. For example, try pairing a 16-inch choker

with an 18-inch pendant and a 20-inch chain for natural movement and balance.

Unexpected pairings

e holiday season is the perfect time to embrace your personal style through unexpected combinations. Mix diamond shapes— round with emerald or pear cuts—for a more distinctive look. Try stacking rings across different fingers or adding a diamond to your pinky for a modern, celebratory touch. ese creative pairings bring a sense of self to your style, proving that luxury shines brightest when it reflects you.

For more styling inspiration, expert advice or to select a new piece to add to your collection, visit Razny Jewelers in Addison, Highland Park, Hinsdale, or Chicago’s Gold Coast or online at razny.com

Christine Razny-Porter is Razny Jewelers’ third-generation owner, a graduate gemologist and the creator of Reﬁned by Razny, a collection of modern diamond essentials that beautifully transition from casual to dressy. Razny Jewelers has been Chicago’s leading family-owned and operated source for natural diamonds, ﬁne jewelry, and Swiss timepieces for nearly 75 years.

CROQUEMBOUCHE

WORDS, STYLING, AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY FOOD EDITOR MONICA KASS ROGERS

Biting into one of the crispy-caramel-coated cream pu s that make up a croquembouche is very much like breaking into that rst crackle-topped bite of crème brûlée. So, the French name for this dessert, which translates to “crunch in the mouth,” makes total sense. I’d seen these fairy-tower confections before, but when my kids came home from a wedding in France where a croquembouche was served, I decided to make one.

While the recipe requires patience, the result is truly worth it. To ease assembly, I made a paper cone to use as the base for the

croquembouche, which helps a lot. But the most challenging bit is working with molten sugar caramel. You’ll dip the cream pu s in this to stick them to the tower and then spin some in ethereal threads around the nished piece. Molten caramel is really hot stu , so I used small kitchen tongs to hold the pu s during the dipping process to avoid getting burned. Because the caramel cools quickly, you may have to make a second batch to complete the entire tower. And to clean the pots, don’t panic! Just immerse and soak in hot water—the sugar will eventually dissolve and come o .

RECIPE

Serves 8 – 10

INGREDIENTS

For the cream pu dough (pâte à choux)

• 1 1/2 sticks (12 tablespoons) unsalted butter

• 3/4 cup whole milk

• 3/4 cup water

• 1 1/2 teaspoon sugar

• Pinch of salt

• 1 1/2 cups bread our

• 5 eggs

For the pastry cream

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1 vanilla bean, sliced in half lengthwise

• 6 large egg yolks

• 2/3 cup sugar

• 1/4 cup cornstarch

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For the caramel

• 2 1/2 cups sugar

• 2/3 cup water

METHOD

Make the pâte à choux

Sift the our. Line two half-sheet pans with parchment paper. Make a paper cone to serve as a base for the cream pu s and set aside. In a heavy saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, milk, water, sugar, and salt and heat to boiling. Remove from heat and add the our all at once, stirring hard until blended. Return to heat and keep stirring until the mixture forms a ball. Place in stand mixer bowl with paddle

attachment and beat to cool for a few minutes. Whisk one of the eggs in a small bowl. Beat into the dough well. Whisk the second egg in small bowl and beat into the dough well. Repeat, scraping sides and bottom of bowl as needed until all eggs are added and the dough is a smooth paste. Cool for 5 minutes.

Make the pu s

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Fill a pastry bag tted with a 3/16-inch plain tip with the paste. Form little mounds, piping about 2 teaspoons for each pu (Note: Make a few bigger and a few smaller because the little ones help ll in any gaps in the tower when you assemble the croquembouche.) Leave about 2 inches between each. Smooth any “peaks” by dipping your nger in water and smoothing the tops. Bake until pu ed for 20 minutes; lower heat to 325 degrees and continue baking for 10 to 15 minutes until pu s are completely dry and golden brown.

Make pastry cream

In a heavy saucepot over medium heat, combine milk and the halved vanilla bean and heat to boiling. Remove from heat, cover, and steep for 10 minutes. Fish out the vanilla bean, scraping vanilla seeds into the milk, and then discard the bean. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch and salt. Temper by adding 1/2 cup of the warm milk to the mixture. Whisk in the rest of the milk; return whole mixture to saucepot over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly for about 7 minutes until thickened. Stir in the pat of butter. Cool and then pop in fridge until thoroughly chilled.

Fill cream pu s

While cream is cooling, poke a small hole in the bottom of each pu . Fill a pastry bag tted with a 3/16-inch plain tip with the cream. Squirt a little cream into each pu . Set aside.

Make caramel

In a heavy pot, combine sugar and water over medium heat, stirring only for one minute. Cook until the mixture boils vigorously and begins to turn a light golden color. Remove from heat. Place the paper cone you made in the center of a plate. Working quickly, dip a lled cream pu bottom into the molten caramel and place at the base of the cone, sticking it to the plate and the side of the cone. Repeat until pu s circle the cone. Working upwards, continue dipping and placing until you have completed the tower with the last pu poked onto the tip. Now, dip a fork in the caramel and, touching one of the pu s, pull away and spin to create a thin caramel thread. Keep doing this until you have spun a pretty cage of threads around the tower.

Serve

e nished croquembouche should be served right away—no more than two hours after it’s completed.

Empowered when the outcome is crucial.

NAVIGATING THE COMPLEXITIES OF HIGH NET-WORTH-DIVORCE

Divorce is a complex and emotionally charged process with significant financial and legal ramifications. The stakes are undeniably high, making it crucial for individuals to maintain clarity and a strategic approach throughout. High-net-worth divorce involves intricate asset divisions, complex tax implications, and often, the involvement of multiple professionals such as financial advisors, forensic accountants, private investigators and asset valuation experts.

CLARITY AND SUPPORT

Partnering with Family Law Solutions can provide the clarity and support needed to navigate this challenging terrain. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and experience the difference our approach can make when the outcome is crucial.

Janet E. Boyle Founder and Principal 40 years in Family Law

POMEGRANATE MIMOSA

Twisted Alchemy transforms fresh fruit into cold-pressed juices relied on by bartenders and enthusiasts for exceptional avor and consistency. is cocktail recipe showcases two signature avors ideal for the celebratory season.

RECIPE AND PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF TWISTED ALCHEMY

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 ounces Twisted Alchemy 100 percent Cold-Pressed Pomegranate Juice

• 4 ounces chilled Champagne or sparkling wine

• 0.5-ounce Twisted Alchemy 100 percent Cold-Pressed Valencia Orange Juice (optional)

• Orange peel and pomegranate seeds for garnish

METHOD:

Pour Twisted Alchemy Pomegranate Juice into a chilled champagne ute. If desired, add Twisted Alchemy Valencia Orange Juice. Slowly top with Champagne or sparkling wine. Gently stir to combine. Garnish and serve immediately.

For more information, visit twistedalchemy.com.

Mawicke Bradley

MEREL MINUTE

The Modern Family

Families today are increasingly diverse. Blended households, dual-career parents, co-parenting arrangements, and LGBTQ+ families have all changed the way we think about family structure. ese realities inﬂuence what matters most during a separation: maintaining healthy relationships, ensuring the stability of children, and ﬁnding solutions that make sense for each household. Decisions are no longer driven solely by legal strategy; they are guided by emotional considerations, practical realities, and the long-term well-being of everyone involved. Recognizing these priorities allows families to approach divorce not as a battle to be won, but as a process to be navigated thoughtfully.

How Family Law Has Evolved

Family law has adapted to meet these changing needs. Approaches such as mediation, collaborative law, and structured co-parenting plans offer alternatives to purely adversarial proceedings. Technology has also made the process more accessible, with virtual court appearances and digital documentation helping reduce stress. Our firm offers a supportive in-house divorce coach to assist clients in managing the emotional aspects of separation, providing guidance on co-parenting, decision-making, and selfcare. By addressing the emotional side alongside legal considerations, clients can approach each step of divorce with greater clarity and confidence.

Compassion and Communication

REDEFINING DIVORCE

How modern families are changing the conversation.

WORDS BY JONATHAN MEREL, FOUNDER AND MANAGING PRINCIPAL, MEREL FAMILY LAW PHOTOGRAPHY BY IAN MCLEOD

Rethinking Divorce

Divorce has long carried a reputation for conflict, stress, and social stigma. For decades, the process was often adversarial, leaving families feeling drained and uncertain about the future. Today, however, the conversation around divorce is changing. Modern families are approaching separation with a greater emphasis on collaboration, emotional well-being, and practical planning. is shift reflects a broader understanding that divorce is not simply a legal transaction but a major life transition that touches every aspect of family life, from parenting and finances to communication and personal growth.

Compassion and communication are at the heart of modern divorce. Attorneys and professionals are increasingly focused on guiding clients through diﬃcult decisions rather than merely advocating for one side. Empathy, active listening, and collaboration can reduce conﬂict and create a more constructive path forward. When families feel understood and supported, the process becomes less about winning and losing and more about creating arrangements that work long-term.

Redeﬁning Success

Success in divorce is being redefined. It is no longer measured solely by legal or financial outcomes. Modern success emphasizes emotional well-being, sustainable parenting arrangements, and the ability to move forward with dignity. Families are learning that separation can be a transition filled with opportunity, growth, and the chance to establish healthier dynamics for the future.

A Hopeful Future

e conversation around divorce is changing because the needs of families are changing. By combining thoughtful legal guidance with compassion, communication, and supportive resources like divorce coaching, modern divorce can be navigated in ways that protect relationships, reduce stress, and foster resilience. For today’s families, the goal is clear: move forward with clarity, conﬁdence, and care for everyone involved, creating a foundation for healthy futures and stronger family connections.

Merel Family Law is located at 440 W Randolph Avenue, 5th Floor, in Chicago; 595 Elm Place, Suite 225, in Highland Park; and 40 E Hinsdale Road, Suite 202, in Hinsdale. For more information, call 312-408-7000, visit merelfamilylaw.com, and follow @merelfamilylaw on social media.

Jonathan Merel

HOUSE & HOME

AN INSIDE LOOK AT CHICAGO’S MOST EXCLUSIVE ADDRESS—THE NORTH SHORE

Step inside a stunning Jessica Margot Design project and warm up with our caramel-hued home selects.

Jessica Margot, founder of Jessica Margot Design. Photography by Katrina Wittkamp/ Styling by Theresa DeMaria/Hair and Makeup by Claudya Sanchez of Pascal pour Elle

HOME TOUR FROM LAKEFRONT TO LEGACY

Jessica Margot Design puzzles out the pieces for a downsizing done right.

KASS

This walnut-paneled family room is transformed with a carved marble ﬁreplace and subtle appliquéd ceiling detailing.

WORDS BY MONICA

ROGERS / PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP

HOME TOUR

British evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins once said, “ e solution often turns out more beautiful than the puzzle.” at’s exactly the reaction designer Jessica Margot received when she revealed her latest project to a “rightsizing” couple.

“Huge hugs, big smiles—a very happy family,” says Margot, of Lake Forest–based Jessica Margot Design. “I was thrilled everything came together because this project was like solving a complex puzzle.”

Her clients were relocating from their beloved Winnetka lakefront home to a house with a smaller footprint—a move lled with both emotional and design challenges. “ e big ask,” explains Margot, “was to recreate the look and feel of their old home as much as possible.”

To get there, Margot and her team took inventory of the clients’ extensive collections—art, furnishings, xtures—and strategically repurposed what mattered most. Armed with spreadsheets and oor plans, they carefully retro tted these pieces into the new space. “Everything had to feel intentional,” Margot explains. “Like it was always meant to be there.”

Among the “must-includes” was a 600-plus-pound crystal chandelier. Installing it above the foyer and second- oor landing required removing a stained-glass dome, building sca olding, and lifting it in with a crane—an e ort well worth the visual impact.

While the new home featured beautiful elements, such as a sweeping walnut neoclassical staircase with over 100 spiral-turned spindles, it felt dark and heavy due to the extensive wood paneling. “ eir former home had lovely natural light and a softer, more inviting palette,” Margot notes. “We needed to mimic that brightness.”

To that end, she trimmed down the clients’ Oscar Isberian rugs to t the new rooms, used creamy tones for the walls, ceilings, and draperies, and positioned key pieces—marble sculptures, antique furnishings, and artwork—as visual anchors.

In the living room, silvery silk wallpaper, pale draperies, light rugs, and new sofas were used to contrast with and highlight the rich millwork. Embroidered Asian silk cushions were elegantly paired with Chinese porcelain ginger jars and carved mahogany tables.

HOME TOUR

Dark bookshelves and walls in the o ce were painted white to lift the space, but Margot retained the ceiling’s gilded details, which accentuated the carved mahogany desk, inlaid round table, and gold-spined leather-bound books.

She continued a soft ivory palette in the adjacent powder room, featuring tone-on-tone wallpaper, a marble-topped custom vanity, and a sheer Roman shade letting in natural light.

e kitchen’s walnut millwork remained, but the space was dramatically brightened with ivory paint, updated hardware, and new lighting. “We kept the bay windows and breakfast nook—the wood tones there beautifully complement the inlaid ooring and the clients’ kitchen table,” says Margot.

In the family room, a new ivory leather sectional paved the way for an airier vibe while a white, hand-carved marble replace mantel—rescued from storage and now perfectly at home— became a stunning focal point.

With the addition of tone-on-tone oral wallpaper, a soft runner, and silver-painted, rose-shaped ceiling embellishments that highlight the delicate light xture, the dining room became a warm and inviting space.

Upstairs, layers of ivory and camel were used on the drapes, sheers, and walls in the primary suite. A bench was reupholstered in cashmere mohair for extra softness. Margot also removed existing his and her closets, recon guring storage areas to maximize space and to accommodate the desire for an attractive, e cient display of folded garments.

LEFT: Delicate tone on tone ﬂoral wallpaper, silver detailing, and ivory drapery refresh this grand dining room with understated elegance. BOTTOM LEFT: An ivory refresh and brushed brass details breathe new life into this walnut-trimmed kitchen, achieving a perfect balance of heritage and modern polish.

BOTTOM: An ivory high-gloss ﬁnish refreshes this stately o ce, while the original gold-leaf ceiling details remain to tie in the rich mahogany furnishings and to preserve its timeless character.

e adjoining bath “is a jewel,” Margot exclaims. e original vanities and a stained-glass panel were preserved, but the co ered ceiling was painted a soft blue to match a new birds-and-vines wallpaper behind the soaking tub with a romantic Roman shade and updated hardware crowning the refresh.

In the end, Margot says, the goal wasn’t just to lighten and modernize, but to create a home rich in personal history. “ ey found us through an article right here in Sheridan Road magazine, and we’ve worked together ever since. With this home, we did everything we could to honor what they left behind, while giving them something entirely new to love.”

For more information, visit jessicamargot.com.

01 Portola Paints Presidente Roman Clay, portolapaints.com 02 Serena & Lily Pinecrest Side Table, Serena & Lily Winnetka, 847-999-3878 03 Baina Classic Bathing Set, theexpert.com 04 Relaxed Washed Organic Cotton Velvet Cognac row Pillow Cover, Crate & Barrel Old Orchard, 847-674-6850 05 Serena & Lily Windermere Wallpaper, Serena & Lily Winnetka, 847-999-3878 06 Tuckernuck Home Misette Camel Molded Candle, tnuck.com 07 Corfu Terracotta Table Lamp with Tapered Shade, Crate & Barrel Old Orchard, 847-674-6850 08 Ward + Gray Dune Rug, wardandgray.com 09 Jelly Roll Armchair, shop.symbolaudio.com 10 Caldwell Camel Brown Oak Wood Upholstered Storage King Bed by Jake Arnold, Crate & Barrel Old Orchard, 847-674-6850 11 Stark Altin Rug, starkcarpet.com 12 Z.d.G. French Dinner Plate, theexpert.com 13 Fritz Hansen Series 7 Tailored, fritzhansen.com 14 Hermès Game, Hermès Chicago, 312-787-8175 15 Serena & Lily Balboa Counter Stool, Serena & Lily Winnetka, 847-999-3878 16 Bath & Body Works Ceramic Candle, bathandbodyworks.com 17 Tuckernuck Home Tortoise Napkin Rings, tnuck.com 18 e Lacquer Company Caterpillar Console Table, thelacquercompany.com 19 PRB 1970s Wood Table Lamp, theexpert.com 20 Madera Leather Accent Chair, Crate & Barrel Old Orchard, 847-674-6850 21 Weeknight Serving Bowl, eastfork.com

ILLUMINATED SPACES

WHERE LIGHT MEETS LUXURY

Skyline Window Coverings elevates functional interior design into a reﬁned, personalized experience.

WORDS BY JANIS MVK / PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY SKYLINE WINDOW COVERINGS

The secret to a home’s interior design starts where it’s least expected: the windows. More than mere accents, windows oﬀer a glimpse into the heart of the home, and when dressed with custom coverings, bring cohesion, depth, and artistry to every room. For homeowners seeking elegant, tailored solutions, Skyline Window Coverings delivers window treatment design with personalized style and elegant sophistication

Founded by husband-and-wife team Chrissy and Jason Roellchen, Skyline Window Coverings began as a passion project launched right from their Chicago apartment. “It started small, but with dedication and a focus on providing exceptional service, the business quickly grew,” Chrissy explains. “Within a few years, we transitioned to an office space and focused solely on shopat-home appointments, and after five years of serving clients, we opened our very first showroom.”

Today, the brand has grown to seven locations nationwide, including New York, Los Angeles, and Portland, Oregon, while Winnetka remains foundational with additional locations in Chicago and Naperville.

Behind the curtains, Skyline embraces a simple yet powerful design philosophy: window coverings should elevate a space, not just serve as a function. eir aesthetic blends classic modern luxury with utility.

e process is just as reﬁned as the results. Every project begins with a complimentary in-home consultation, where expert design consultants assess lighting, layout, and lifestyle needs. “ is is where we add real value,” says Chrissy. “We help clients avoid the guesswork, guiding them toward thoughtful choices that bring their vision to life.”

But beyond the style, Skyline steps in to lead the charge in

smart home integration. eir motorized shades and automated systems allow homeowners to control natural light with a simple app or voice command.

“Over the years, we’ve seen a shift from purely manual operation to advanced motorization, app control, voice integration, and automated schedules that adapt to your lifestyle,” says Chrissy. Whether it’s protecting art and furnishings from UV rays, creating blackout conditions for a restful sleep, or automating shades to move with the sun, their solutions blend technology with design seamlessly. “Today’s homeowners want more than beauty. ey want performance,” Chrissy explains. “ at’s why we prioritize high-performance materials that deliver insulation, acoustic beneﬁts, and energy eﬃciency, without compromising on elegance.”

One recent project highlighted just how transformative the right window treatment can be. By incorporating Pirouette shades, the Skyline team created a space that shifted eﬀortlessly from softly lit and airy during the day to dark, quiet, and restful at night. e sculpted vanes of the shade became an unexpected design focal point. Proof that functionality can also be a showpiece.

For smart home integration and window treatments, Skyline Window Coverings helps clients create spaces that feel intentional, livable, and entirely their own. From consultation to ﬁnal installation, their approach is personal, precise, and refreshingly simple. “Balancing elegance with performance is at the heart of what we do. Our clients expect window treatments that not only look beautiful but also function ﬂawlessly—and we believe you shouldn’t have to choose one over the other,” says Chrissy.

Skyline Window Coverings is located at 571 Lincoln Avenue in Winnetka, 847-961-2626, skylinewc.com, @skyline_wc.

Jason and Chrissy Roellchen

MARKET MAKERS

MAX IMPACT

After four decades, Janice Corley is expanding her real estate network to the North Shore, opening RE/MAX Premier branches in Winnetka, Glencoe, and Lake Forest.

Janice Corley

WORDS BY JOE ROSENTHAL / PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES GUSTIN / STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA

MARKET MAKERS

It’s no secret that the lakeside communities of the North Shore are shining jewels in the Windy City’s crown. With proximity to the natural beauty of Lake Michigan and fast rail lines to the city, the area has been coveted for well over a century. For prospective buyers, it can be a daunting place to break into—with limited inventory and frequent bidding wars. Sellers, meanwhile, confront discerning buyers with high expectations and the means to wait for just the right home. It is—and always has been—a dynamic market that commands both attention and respect.

Janice Corley, the founder and CEO of RE/MAX Premier, knows this better than most. As an agent for 40 years, she has sold more than $1 billion in residential property in the greater Chicago area. With four oﬃces in Chicago and one in the Western Suburbs, she’s long been attracted to the North Shore market. It wasn’t until Compass acquired @properties Christie’s International Real Estate last December that the opportunity presented itself to the industry veteran. e acquisition led to duplicate oﬃces in a number of towns, which Corley has woven into her network, adding new RE/MAX Premier bases in Lake Forest, Glencoe, and Winnetka.

“ ere are RE/MAX offices in Northbrook, Deerfield, Libertyville, and Gurnee,” Corley says, “but there have been none in the communities right along the lake—other than Lake Bluff. It was something that I wanted to do since COVID. So many people work out of their homes now. So many people travel, and it’s near the airport. Empty nesters are going to a suburb so they can be near the grandkids instead of going to Lake Geneva or some of these other places.”

Indeed, since the pandemic, the North Shore market has grown signiﬁcantly in value. According to the Institute for Housing Studies at DePaul University, suburban Cook County prices are up more than 47 percent in the period from early 2020 to early 2025 with Winnetka/Glenview showing more than a 30 percent increase (the study found growth moderated in higher-cost markets). ere have been some peaks and valleys, but demand has driven a notable upward trajectory.

For its part, RE/MAX is a legendary name in real estate dating back to its founding in Denver in 1973. e company went international in 1994 and has 145,000 agents in 110 countries marketing properties in each location’s native language and currency. RE/ MAX (an abbreviation for “Real Estate Maximums”) was founded on a principle of maximum commissions, bucking trends by allowing agents to keep most of their commissions with payment to the broker of a portion of rent expenses. According to Corley, they still do things diﬀerently.

”It’s two things, actually,” she says. “From the agent perspective, many [non-RE/MAX] agents on the North Shore are in some type of structure where they were recruited with a signing bonus. at’s something I’ve never done, and RE/MAX has never done. [RE/MAX co-founders] Dave Liniger and Gail Liniger wanted to attract an entrepreneur-mindset agent who wanted to basically run their business as they saw ﬁt. Our goal is to keep the authenticity, the organic part of recruiting agents, and work with agents so they can develop their business and make their own money. We don’t want agents to work for us who have to sign a ﬁve-year contract to pay back because we gave them a signing bonus.”

Corley also emphasizes the experience level of their talent. “We’ve always believed in hiring talent. Most RE/MAX agents are experienced. And ‘experienced’ in my opinion is 25-plus years. ey have their own book of business. ey know how to develop

business. ey just want to work. And they do not delegate important agent activities to a team member that is new to the business.”

On the client side of the equation, Corley emphasizes that RE/MAX markets properties as broadly as possible as quickly as possible.

“As far as the client is concerned,” she says, “we don’t believe in marketing properties privately.” She’s referring to a practice in the luxury sector where properties are sometimes marketed exclusively to an agency’s network. In Corley’s case, she says, “Your property is exposed, not just to the city you’re in, but to the world, and RE/MAX is in 110 countries.” e logic of private networks is counter to her philosophy of selling. “ ey’re saying to the seller ‘this is better for you, because we’re going to market it internally, we’re going to get you a price, and we’re going to get it sold right away.’ It’s really a small group of people, compared to the rest of the world, and it’s not the best way to market a property for a seller.”

Of course, a plan is only a plan, and Corley knows that she’ll need to execute exceptionally well in order to be successful in this competitive market. She is quick to point out that she’s no stranger to naysayers. She’s studiously ignored their opinions and cautionary tales for decades now, including their thoughts about which Chicago real estate markets are open to whom.

“When I moved from Houston to Chicago [in 1988], I didn’t know the segregated piece about Chicago,” Corley recalls. “Most people say I’m naive, but I didn’t know that there’s a certain nationality that lives on this side of town and that side of town.” She also notes that because she’s half African American, perhaps she was able to fly under the radar of these sentiments. “My first real estate office that I managed was in Lincoln Park, and maybe the people didn’t realize that I was an African American, so I never really had the problems that I was told African Americans were supposed to have. I never thought that I wasn’t supposed to be in a certain place. ‘You’re really not supposed to be in the Gold Coast or Lincoln Park.’ ‘What are you doing here?’ I mean, it just didn’t register to me. I was reminded of that as my career grew. I’ve never bought into the segregation mentality.”

Corley says some of the same opinions have sprung up again with respect to moving to the North Shore, reminding her of those days on the Gold Coast, but it doesn’t faze her. “I never bothered to think that I could not accomplish something because of race. It never registered in my mind that I wasn’t supposed to be able to do that. [When they say] ‘there’s no way you’ll make it,’ that’s a motivating factor for me.”

With a tailwind born of such conﬁdence, Corley is focused on the future more than any obstacles in her path. Speciﬁcally, she is focused on talent, and the type of agent that she believes succeeds in the model that she has developed over the years.

[When it comes to recruiting], you explain to the agent how you are going to work with them to help them be successful,” she says. “In other words, you teach them how to ﬁsh so they’re successful for life.”

“A great agent,” Corley says “is someone with passion, discipline, focus, and commitment. A good agent could never be bought.”

Not surprisingly, that sounds a little like Corley herself.

For more information, call Corley at 773-230-8700, email janicecorley@remax.net, or visit remaxpremierchicago.com.

HAPPY

Mimi Goodyear

Jolie Friedman

Scott Glazer Cari

Zweig-Driscoll

Paula Gagerman

Joey Gault

Beth Wexler

Liz Salinas

Lauren Rabin

Elise Dayan

HIGHLAND PARK & DEERFIELD 2024*

Thank you for letting us be a part of your real estate journey. Wishing you a warm and happy holiday season ﬁlled with love and laughter!

ZERO TO 30 with SMASHING SPEED

ree decades after the release of Mellon Collie and the In nite Sadness, e Smashing Pumpkins’ genre-defying masterpiece still resonates with fans old and new—and Billy Corgan continues to defy musical conventions.

WORDS BY JOE ROSENTHAL PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSEPH CULTICE

When attempting to measure the greatness of a band, many metrics can be applied: chart positions held; number of hit singles; total albums sold; concert halls lled. But possibly the truest measure is a band’s longevity. e longer and more loudly their music resonates with generations of listeners, the greater the band. Using this standard, the Smashing Pumpkins have cemented their place in the pantheon of rock bands.

is year marks the 30th anniversary of their classic double album Mellon Collie and the In nite Sadness, and the band is in the midst of a renaissance. A 13th studio album, Aghori Mhori Mei, was released to critical acclaim; the “Rock Invasion 2025” tour spanned Asia and, for the rst time, the Middle East; and in November, a rock opera featuring orchestral interpretations of Mellon Collie songs was staged by Chicago’s Lyric Opera. In August, Smashing Pumpkins’ lead singer Billy Corgan underscored his cross-generational appeal when his surprise appearance at My Chemical Romance’s sold-out Soldier Field concert was met with rapturous applause—evidence of the group’s impact on legions of younger bands and fanbases ranging from Gen X to Gen Y to Gen Z.

The Smashing Pumpkins’ lead singer Billy Corgan

When Mellon Collie and the In nite Sadness was released on October 23, 1995, it was, of course, a very di erent world. Bill Clinton was president, Friends was a new TV show, and the country was still reeling from the Oklahoma City bombing the spring before. In Chicago, Richard M. Daley was mayor, a summer heat wave had killed more than 700 people, and demolition was starting at Cabrini Green. Michael Jordan had returned to the Bulls in March, the Blackhawks had not won a Stanley Cup since 1961, the White Sox were a decade away from their next World Series victory, and the Cubs were still struggling with the Curse of the Billy Goat. e music industry was on the cusp of massive disruption (MP3 was entering the lexicon), and grunge was in decline after the suicide of Kurt Cobain, while pop-punk and Brit Pop were emerging, and the hip-hop and electronic music scenes surging.

It was into this environment that Corgan made his bold gamble with Mellon Collie. He wanted to make his version of Pink Floyd’s e Wall or e Beatles’ White Album—a mythic, multi-album creative statement with darker undertones that avoid “repeating any formulas.” e band was coming o the massive success of Siamese Dream, and, as one might expect, the record label thought the move was risky at best and career suicide at worst.

“I had run my mouth and said that we were gonna do a double album,” Corgan recalls, “which the record company at the time was mortally against. e message was run up through the corporate structure, and I started getting tremendous pressure to back o the idea.”

ere were concerns about how to market the record, the quality of the songs, and the historical precedent of double albums selling less than single records. And Corgan laughs, he “never thought through the math,” because Mellon Collie was actually more like a triple album with 28 songs and a running time of over two hours.

In the end, though, Corgan had the political capital to pull it o , and Mellon Collie was a smash success, both critically and commercially. It debuted at No. 1, selling more than 10 million copies in the U.S. and garnering six Grammy nominations and two wins. Rolling Stone gave the album 4 out of 5 stars and placed it on its “500 Greatest Albums of All Time” list. Ferocious tracks like “Zero,” “Muzzle,” and “Bullet with Butter y Wings” sat alongside pop gems like “1979” and “Tonight, Tonight” and beautiful ballads like “ irty- ree,” “Stumbleine,” and the ethereal “Cupid De Locke.” It’s a sweeping, grandiose tapestry of blistering guitar, harps, and strings, with atmospheric washes of layered sound. Looking back on it, Corgan is lled with a combination of pride, gratitude, and surprise.

“My personal life was kind of falling apart [at the time], and I’d made this momentous musical decision that we were gonna, you know, jump into the re with both feet. Sink or swim,” he recalls. “So, it’s easy to talk about now because it worked. But at the time, it was incredibly stressful. We ended up working on the album a total of eight months from start to nish.”

“THE ALBUM HAS ENDURED AND HAS SUCH STRENGTH BECAUSE IT WAS THE BEST THAT THE FOUR OF US WERE ALIGNED— NOT JUST MUSICALLY, BUT ALSO PERSONALLY.”

While he was aware of the magnitude of what he was attempting and the pressures all around him, Corgan was hyper-focused. “Maybe it’s a personality defect,” he says, “but when I’m on a mission, you kind of can’t take me o it. I can’t say my delusion is why it worked out, but my delusion is what kept me on course.”

Given its origin story and global acclaim, it’s not entirely surprising that the Lyric Opera of Chicago would want to take a crack at interpreting the epic work. While the sonic qualities that made the band famous—the crushing onslaught of distorted guitars and emotive vocals often screamed with fury—aren’t exactly found in re ned symphony halls, Corgan is a musician’s musician. He did all the string arrangements on the original album, and his wicked guitar assault always masked complex arrangements and delicate melodies.

When he speaks of the Lyric’s presentation, his admiration is palpable. “[Conductor] James Lowe was amazing,” Corgan says. “He took every note I’ve had and really translated it beautifully. ere’s some stu where I was like, ‘can we make this more Gershwin-like—a little bit more American in Paris vibe here’—and he’s done a beautiful job of translating my songs into something that feels fresh and unique. It’s almost like a complete reinvestment in the architecture of the songs. It was a really beautiful and highly emotional experience for me to stand on that stage.”

It’s the kind of experience that inherently begs the question: what’s next for the Smashing Pumpkins? ree decades after Mellon Collie exploded onto the world stage, Corgan and the band show no signs of slowing down. And with the wind at their backs, why would they? In fact, Corgan has seen a resurgence in interest in live rock music globally, and he’s energized by the passion he sees in young fans out on the road.

“ ere’s a youth movement going on where they want guitarbased music, and they don’t want it in a sentimental way,” he says. For the entire year, he says, the majority of his audiences have been under 25. Re ecting on the recent Bahrain show, he says that “outside of a song like ‘Bullet with Butter y Wings,’ their biggest response was when we played total raw power rock. ey couldn’t get enough of that.” Asked about the reason for the youthful turn, he doesn’t hesitate with his reply, “I think it’s antidotal to the fake world that they’ve been handed.” As for the very real staying power of Mellon Collie, Corgan reasons that “the album has endured and has such strength because it was the best that the four of us were aligned—not just musically, but also personally. I think the records are really a testament to what the band was capable of when the band was aligned.”

Fortunately for fans of Billy Corgan and the Smashing Pumpkins, the stars were aligned as well, and the beauty of Mellon Collie has proved in nite indeed.

Visit Highland Park’s Madame ZuZu’s in person or go to madamezuzus.com for limited-edition Mellon Collie vinyl, box sets, and other exotic ephemera.

SWEET MUSIC

Two Chicago icons— e Smashing Pumpkins and Vosges Haut-Chocolat—have joined forces to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the band’s legendary album Mellon Collie and the In nite Sadness with a limited-edition chocolate box set. Designed as a sensorial journey, the collection mirrors the emotional arc of the double album, inviting fans to “taste” lyrical allusions, celestial ingredients, and evocative textures. Each Mellon Collie Sessions box includes six bars (three avors, two of each) and a one-of-a-kind poster. Flavors include “Zero,” a 62 percent dark chocolate bar steeped in Madame ZuZu’s Forbidden Forest Lapsang Souchong and kissed with smoky black and wild raspberries; “Tonight, Tonight,” a velvety vegan white chocolate bar infused with Electric Blue Matcha, spirulina, and lime; and “1979,” a 72 percent dark chocolate bar laced with pretzels, handmade vegan marshmallows, and rice crunch. Each bar features premium ingredients, including specialty teas from Madame ZuZu’s—the Highland Park café founded by Billy Corgan and Chloé Mendel in 2012—and is even infused with Smashing Pumpkins music as it cools for a nal ourish. e box set is available at vosgeshautchocolate.com, at Vosges Chicago retail locations, and at Madame ZuZu’s Tea House in Highland Park.

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Designed for seamless indoor-outdoor living, the home features expansive patios, lush gardens, and a fenced yard perfect for alfresco dining, entertaining, or relaxing under the stars. Wellness and leisure are part of everyday life here — with a private beach, enclosed resistance pool, and dedicated ftness room all at your fngertips.

Your lakefront lifestyle starts here — schedule your private tour today!

•

MOMENTUM KNOWS NO BOUNDARIES

e spark, the systems, and the story of Jessica Qaasim.

WORDS

RONI MOORE / PHOTOGRAPHY

KATRINA WITTKAMP STYLING

THERESA DEMARIA / MAKEUP

LEANNA ERNEST

Momentum. It’s the thread that ties every chapter of Jessica Qaasim’s story together— from her beginning on Chicago’s South Side to her global leadership at Google. It’s not just motion for motion’s sake; it’s the art of translating vision into forward progress, even when the path ahead isn’t clear. Today, as Head of Industry for Google Marketing Platform Partnerships, Qaasim leads with a dynamic combination of strategy, empathy, and drive—anchored by a belief that the world needs more people who come alive in their work and their purpose.

Qaasim’s journey began on Chicago’s South Shore, a lakefront neighborhood in the South Side, where she grew up with her single mother and two sisters. A graduate of Hyde Park’s Kenwood Academy, she learned early that education could be both a key and a compass. “I knew that learning could open doors my family had never walked through before,” she re ects. at mindset propelled her to Harvard, where she became the rst in her family to attend college and graduated with a degree in psychology. Her focus: understanding how people think, decide, and connect— insights that would later shape her leadership philosophy at one of the world’s most in uential technology companies.

Jessica Qaasim, Head of Industry for Google Marketing Platform Partnerships, wearing Giorgio Armani, Neiman Marcus Northbrook

While many of her Harvard peers took familiar paths into consulting or nance, Qaasim followed her intuition toward technology. “Tech had this potential to change the world at scale, and I wanted to be part of that movement,” she recalls. With little more than determination and a one-way ticket, she moved to Silicon Valley in her early twenties and joined Google. at decision marked the beginning of her 16-year tenure at the company, de ned by continuous growth, global impact, and bold leadership.

Her years at Google have taken her across continents and cultures. She spent a decade in the U.K., launching and scaling partnership programs across more than 15 countries—from Italy and France to South Africa and Denmark. e experience expanded her worldview and deepened her conviction that innovation thrives when people, ideas, and perspectives collide. “Every market taught me something new about possibility,” she says. “It reinforced that momentum truly knows no boundaries.”

Today, Qaasim leads Google’s Marketing Platform Partnerships in the United States, driving innovation at the intersection of AI, data, and marketing technology. She helps brands unlock growth through smarter systems and more human storytelling. Her approach re ects a personal mantra she has carried throughout her career: Have a healthy disrespect for the impossible. “ e status quo is overrated,” she says with a smile. “You have to launch, iterate, and keep moving.”

Her leadership philosophy rests on what she calls the “3Ms: Mastery, Mindset, and Momentum.” Mastery is about owning your craft—leveraging education, curiosity, and skill to create impact. Mindset is about believing in the power of yet—the growth that comes from perseverance and learning. And Momentum is about taking brave, compounding action before you feel ready. “ ese three principles are my North Star,” Qaasim observes. “ ey remind me that clarity doesn’t always come before action. Sometimes it comes because of it.”

As a woman of color in tech and global business, Qaasim also leads with representation and intention. She believes deeply in the quiet power of taking up space—of showing up visibly and purposefully to normalize what leadership looks like. “Representation isn’t about being the only one in the room,” she explains. “It’s about opening doors so that others see what’s possible.” Her voice and presence have made her a sought-after speaker, mentor, and thought leader. Recognized as one of Adweek’s 50 most in uential executives, she serves as a CES Innovation Awards judge and frequently volunteers for organizations like Per Scholas and ink Chicago, inspiring the next generation of changemakers.

“TECH HAD THIS POTENTIAL TO CHANGE THE WORLD AT SCALE, AND I WANTED TO BE PART OF THAT MOVEMENT.”

Recently, Qaasim took on the leadership of Harvard’s Early Education Initiatives in Chicago, a full-circle moment in her journey. rough this work, she’s helping more students from backgrounds like hers see Harvard—and higher education—as a real, reachable path. “When students see someone who looks like them, it changes the story they tell themselves,” she explains. “It makes possibility feel personal.”

Beyond her professional roles, Qaasim is in the process of writing her rst book—one focused on helping people come alive in their work and lives. She’s also exploring board opportunities and continuing her own learning through Harvard Business School’s executive programs on leadership in turbulence. Her philosophy is simple: keep expanding your systems of in uence so you can lift others as you climb.

rough all of this, Qaasim has remained grounded in her values. She lives in Winnetka with her husband and two children, nding joy in the blend of global ambition and local community. Qaasim is a weekend baker, creating custom birthday cakes for family and treats for neighbors. “My roots on the South Side taught me resilience. My life now reminds me of balance,” she re ects. “Both are essential to who I am.”

If there’s one truth Qaasim has come to hold, it’s that belonging is not tied to a place—it’s built through purpose. “I can feel just as rooted on the South Side of Chicago as I do in London or Copenhagen,” she says. “ at’s the beauty of growth and gratitude—you carry home with you.”

Her story is ultimately one of alignment—of learning to lead with clarity in chaos, to connect systems with soul, and to build bridges between where we start and where we’re called to go next. Momentum, after all, isn’t about speed. It’s about direction—and Qaasim continues to prove that when your purpose is clear, there are truly no boundaries to how far you can go.

Qaasim speaking at the Google Analytics 2025 Summit in Los Angeles.

Qaasim moderating a panel at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity in Cannes, France.

“A fantastic experience — patient, supportive, and fully committed.”

“Direct, honest, and incredibly knowledgeable.”

“Stellar communication skills, timeliness and follow through.”

“She clearly had our best interests at heart.”

“Calm, professional and always responsive.”

“Her guidance and feedback were invaluable.”

Twelve Consec ive Years

Honored as a Five Star Professional — a client nominated award that is a distinction earned through dedication, integrity, and client satisfaction.

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Her clients describe her as patient, incredibly responsive, and deeply connected to the North Shore market — a trusted partner who truly has their best interests at heart.

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THE SPIRITED LIFE

Seventeen years ago, scholar Dr. Sonat Birnecker Hart traded academia for alchemy—launching KOVAL, now one of the largest independent, female-owned craft distilleries in the U.S.

Dr. Sonat Birnecker

Hart wearing Cinq à Sept Bordeaux vegan dress, Neiman Marcus Northbrook

WORDS BY THOMAS CONNORS / PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA PONCE STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA / HAIR & MAKEUP BY LEANNA ERNEST PRODUCT PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KOVAL

On paper, Drs. Sonat Birnecker Hart and Robert Birnecker don’t come across as a couple who’d throw caution to the wind. A professor of German cultural history, Jewish Studies, and German literature, Sonat’s CV includes teaching positions at Goucher College and Humboldt-Universität of Berlin. A career diplomat, Robert’s postings included Deputy Press Secretary for the Austrian Embassy in Washington. But when they found themselves at a crossroads, they did a hard pivot from the life that they knew and launched KOVAL, the rst distillery to open in Chicago since the 1880s.

“I was pregnant with our rst child, and we were questioning if settling down in the D.C. area was what we wanted,” recalls Sonat, who was raised in Wrigleyville and Evanston. “We chose to start a distillery in Chicago because it was our way of starting the family chapter of our lives by working together, living close to family in a city we adore, while making something special with ‘Made in Chicago’ on every bottle.”

“From the start, we wanted KOVAL to re ect our values,” says Sonat. “We source locally and use only organic grains from Midwestern farmers who practice sustainable agriculture. Supporting our community and the environment has always been as important to us as creating exceptional spirits.”

Having grown up helping his grandparents around their distillery in his native Austria, Robert was familiar with the art and science of distilling. Launching their own operation from scratch, however, was daunting. It meant not only giving up the security of established careers but investing every penny the couple had. “Nevertheless,” shares Sonat, “our parents were rooting for us, extremely supportive and helpful. My dad was boxing up spirits into his 80s, and my mom was peeling tons of ginger so we could make a liqueur.”

“WHAT I LOVE ABOUT BEING IN THE LIQUOR BUSINESS IS THAT SPIRITS ARE GREAT FOR FOSTERING CONVERSATION AND BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER.”

Birnecker Hart wearing Frame suit, Ulla Johnson blouse, Neiman Marcus Northbrook

Today, KOVAL is an esteemed brand that has earned more than 100 awards for its exceptional bourbon, rye, gin, and liqueurs.

When KOVAL launched in 2008, there were fewer than 50 grain-to-bottle distilleries (meaning liquor made from locally sourced ingredients and produced start-to- nish at the same facility) in the country. “In general, it was di cult to navigate the industry as a craft brand,” relates Sonat. “ ere was little infrastructure, little knowledge of how to enter the industry, so we started a consulting company for the spirits industry, Kothe Distilling Technologies, and became manufacturers’ representatives for numerous equipment companies. We have now educated more than 3,500 people in our workshops, with people coming from around the world. We have also set up more than 250 turnkey distilleries across the globe, including in Uganda, Japan, and most recently, Belize. Initially, there was some skepticism among distributors and consumers, but craft spirits have become essential to the industry, and have certainly brought more creativity, diversity, and regionality to spirits in America.”

In the early days, Sonat and Robert worked side-by-side, hands-on in the distillery. “As we grew, we split up the tasks based on our strengths,” explains Sonat. “Since KOVAL was the rst distillery in Chicago since the mid-1800s, some laws needed updating. I lobbied to get laws passed to make it possible to have a craft distillery in Illinois, with allowances such as being able to retail on-site, o er tours, and tastings. As president, I worked on building up a distribution network and nding ways to market our products without a budget. Robert, as Master Distiller and CEO, worked on making the product and focused on consulting, so that we could grow our business, while helping the industry grow as a whole.”

is past summer, Gallup—which has been tracing the nation’s drinking habits for 90 years—released data indicating that fewer Americans drink than in the past, and those who do are consuming less. It’s a trend that has been growing over the past decade, and the Birneckers have “taken it as a cue,” says Sonat, to enter the Ready to Drink space with their canned cocktails— Bourbon Highball and Cranberry Spritz. And, as surveys suggest that consumers who do enjoy a drink are opting for top-shelf products, Sonat and Robert are giving special attention to their ultra-premium line, resh and Winnow, which includes a 10-year-old rye, two gin o erings, and an eight-year single malt whiskey. “We have also worked to acquire a Public Place of Amusement license at the distillery to create more programming for people looking for things to do and ways to come together with other members of the community. What I love about being in the liquor business is that spirits are great for fostering conversation, bringing people together, and in the words of my late Aunt Susan, being in the mood to ‘up with fun!’ ese are some of the things that make life worth living. Alcohol is not required to achieve any of them, but it can sure add a little something.”

For more information, visit koval-distillery.com.

LAGO’S LURE

e reimagination of Plaza del Lago, Wilmette’s Spanish Revival gem, honors its storied past while promising a glittering future.

WORDS BY JOE ROSENTHAL / PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA PONCE STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA / HAIR & MAKEUP BY LEANNA ERNEST

MODELING BY MADELYN OF SELECT MODEL MANAGEMENT

Model Madelyn of Select

Model Management wearing Missoni dress, KULSON sportcoat, Barton Perreira sunglasses, SPACE 519

The land upon which Plaza del Lago sits is an exercise in geographical alchemy—a lakeside setting close enough to the city to make it accessible, and just far enough away to make it feel like an escape. During the Jazz Age, it was a wild and untamed “No Man’s Land” dotted with speakeasies and barbecue joints. Sixty years ago, the site’s history took a respectable turn when a Spanish Revival belfry rst rose over a new brick and stucco shopping center a ectionately dubbed “PDL” by devoted locals. Now, the beloved Plaza del Lago is set to begin a new, gilded chapter.

To better understand where we are today, it’s instructive to take a quick look at the past. e area’s history is documented in Wilmette – A History by George D. Bushnell and summarized in a Chicago Tribune article, No Man’s Land: Notorious Side of the North Shore. No Man’s Land rst blossomed to life during the Roaring Twenties as a strip dotted with hot dog shacks, reworks stands, and gas stations catering to Jazz Babies behind the wheels of Model Ts. In 1926, a group of local developers built a Spanish-themed entertainment district with a shopping center dubbed the Spanish Court, a movie theater called Teatro del Lago, and a dance hall, e Miralago Ballroom. Wilmette ultimately annexed the land in 1942, and its developers conceived of the modernday Plaza del Lago in 1965. While the Teatro was part of the original plan, it was ultimately razed to make way for the Jewel that still stands today. e shopping and dining center became a beloved part of the community, home to Convito Café & Market, Burhop’s Seafood, Just Food For Dogs, Starbucks, CVS, and other retailers and medical practitioners. It was a lovely place, but arguably not living up to the glimmering vision of its progenitors.

In 2022, WS Development—a real estate development rm dedicated to creating best-in-class experiences with a focus on generating “third spaces”—conceived a plan to burnish the site’s potential while still honoring its past.

Today, visitors will nd Plaza del Lago familiar but bustling with new features and energy. All the building exteriors have been thoughtfully restored and refreshed, landscaping has been upgraded, and new outdoor spaces have been created for dining, mingling, and taking in the scenery. Inside, the buildings have been thoroughly revamped to pristine e ect while preserving details like the original wood beams, bricks, and even the original tiled fountain.

Veronica Beard interior. Photography courtesy of Plaza del Lago

LoveShackFancy interior. Photography by Julianne Green

At press time, 15 carefully curated new tenants have been announced, and e Arches Building is now complete. Highlights include SPACE 519, a beloved Chicago destination for fashion and lifestyle (featuring a restaurant, co ee bar, and cocktail lounge); luxury home, apparel, and apothecary brand Jenni Kayne; California-inspired label James Perse; New York favorite rag & bone; and the romantic lifestyle brand Hill House Home. Just south of the signature belltower, LoveShackFancy—known for its playful, modern take on femininity—opened in mid-September, followed by Veronica Beard, which debuted in the belfry-topped main building in October.

at’s a formidable o ering, and it’s just the tip of the belfry. Other stores set to open in 2026 include Oscar de la Renta, Lola + e Boys, and men’s luxury sportswear purveyor Peter Millar. In the iconic, main building, Hermès has announced a two-story, 8,000-square-foot anchor store. Lilly Pulitzer, Studs, and Pilatesville round out the picture, in e Arcade Building.

rag & bone interior. Photography courtesy of rag & bone

Madelyn wearing Thom Browne pant, ETRO blouse, Róhe leather trench, SPACE 519

Ensuring that shoppers will be well sated from their morning co ee to their late-night cocktail, it was announced that e Henry, the acclaimed neighborhood restaurant from Phoenix-based hospitality group Fox Restaurant Concepts, will open its doors in the spring. Known for incorporating local design in uences that blend industrial and classical elements, e Henry’s new 6,401-square-foot location will feature indoor and outdoor dining as well as a fast casual co ee bar.

Shopping and dining won’t be the only activities on o er. True to the developers’ founding vision to create a third space where people can meet for enriching experiences, the plaza will feature a full slate of community programming—from holiday-centered gatherings to charity events, arts, music, and children’s activities. With its proximity to Sheridan Road, in the future, it could host events for the area’s many cyclists and automobile enthusiasts. Judging from the bustling foot tra c and excitement lling the air already, the new Plaza del Lago is primed to inspire and delight another generation of North Shore residents and visiting explorers. Firework smoke and the smell of barbecue may have been replaced with the aromas of espresso and Korean Prime Skirt Steak, but the passion and alegría de vivir that rst inspired the construction of this Spanish Revival gem is unchanged. And that’s a change that’s easy to get behind.

For more information, visit plazadellago.com and follow on Instagram @theplazadellago.

Jenni Kayne interior. Photography courtesy of Jenni Kayne

LoveShackFancy exterior

Michael P. Fisherman Partner & Portfolio Manager

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Comprehensive Family Wealth Management

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Maddie & Annie were absolutely fantastic in my hunt for a condo downtown. They were extremely patient and understanding with my constraints and showed me lots of great options. I was able to ﬁnd a fantastic unit downtown thanks to their assistance and would highly recommend them to anyone I know!

LIVING & GIVING

SPOWER WOMEN

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY JUAN ARIZA

PACE 519 and Sheridan Road magazine co-hosted a stylish luncheon celebrating the North Shore women featured in the October 2025 Power Women issue. Guests gathered to enjoy a vegetable-forward, California-style three-course meal in e Lunchroom followed by SPACE 519 owners Lance Lawson and Jim Wetzel’s unveiling of curated power looks for the season. e afternoon wrapped up with new connections, elevated style inspiration, and a generous gift card from Whole Beauty Institute—a powerfully beautiful way to celebrate. space519.com, jwcmedia.com

Theresa DeMaria, Katrina Wittkamp, Deb Lund

Jenn Barry, Lauren Schi erdecker, Dr. Dana Russo, Adrianna Stasiuk

Lisa Bulzoni, Sara Poticha, Diana Wagenbach

Stacy Burgoon

Elise Maltby, Jennifer Sturgeon

SPACE 519 owners Jim Wetzel and Lance Lawson

Sheridan Road magazine Editor-in-Chief

Dustin O’Regan, Jessica Margot, Magdalena Wesolowski, Anne Hardy

LIVING & GIVING

Model wearing the season’s power looks

JWC Media Associate Publisher Jennifer Sturgeon welcoming guests

Model wearing the season’s power looks

Dustin O’Regan, Kathryn Mangel

Alyssa Quinlan, Stacy Burgoon, Diana Wagenbach, Magdalena Wesolowski, Jessica Margot, Dr. Linda Salmon

Kelly Mangel, Executive Director of Operations Kemmie Ryan, Kathryn Mangel

Julie Bradbury Miller, Coco Harris, Alison Beitzel, Dr. Meg Moore

Jordan Shackelford, Annika Valdiserri, Jena Radnay, Sarah Elder Lyons

LIVING & GIVING

AN AFTERNOON OF DESIGN AND CONNECTION

PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEATHER BAIGELMAN

Stephanie Duloc opened her stunning home, beautifully decorated by Claire Staszak of Centered by Design, for an afternoon of camaraderie. Both the hostess and designer were frosted in glamorous gems from Lugano Diamonds, adding sparkle to the stylish gathering. Guests mingled over an extraordinary charcuterie grazing table crafted by Babs Boards, featuring an artful selection of meats, cheeses, fruits, artisanal breads, gourmet crackers, and hidden sweets. e gathering was a perfect blend of design inspiration, delectable bites, and meaningful connections. S

HERIDAN ROAD

Claire Staszak, Stephanie Duloc, Sara Gubin

Emily Krall, Katie Taubensee

Sara Gubin, Lance Oaten of Lugano Diamonds

Jen Sangster, Claire Staszak, Dustin O’Regan, Shelly Marks

Grace Mullen, Maggie Keen, Emily Krall

Amanda Arendt, Julie Valenti, Amy Krebs

Babs of Babs Boards

Laura Lester, Olivia Metzger

LIVING & GIVING

THE JOFFREYNEXT LUNCHEON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SEAN SU OF PURPLE PHOTO GROUP

The Jo ﬀ reyNext Luncheon at e Peninsula Chicago, hosted by the Jo ﬀ rey Women’s Board, brought together art, conversation, and community. Guests enjoyed a three-course meal followed by an inspiring panel moderated by Ashley Wheater, MBE, featuring Company Artist Amanda Assucena, Choreographer Chanel DaSilva, and Grainger Academy faculty member Anne O’Donnell Passero. eir thoughtful observations beautifully captured the transformative power of creativity and connection. joffrey.org

SHERIDAN ROAD 121

Farissa Knox, Anna Valencia

Brendan Fernandes, Nicole Pittmon Davis

Rachel Rush, Lydia Kutko, Anne Forman, Lori Arnold, Katie Dunlop, Rebecca O’Brien

Jo Ferguson, Anne Forman

Dana Hokin Garvey

Jo reyNext Panel - Ashley Wheater MBE, Chanel DaSilva, Amanda Assucena, Anne O’Donnell Passero

Audrey Tatar, Lauren Tatar, Marina Tatar, Carolyn Tatar

Jo rey Ballet President and CEO Greg Cameron

RADIATE GALA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY VICTORIA

CHUKAROV

Chicago’s philanthropic, cultural, and business leaders came together at the historic Drake Hotel for the Salt & Light Coalition’s Radiate Gala, one of the city’s most high-profile philanthropic evenings. e sold-out gala helped the organization raise more than $1 million to support trauma-informed healing and workforce programs for survivors of human tra ffi cking. Guests were treated to an exclusive performance by Jo ff rey Ballet dancers, original music composed by Alex Groesh, and powerful survivor storytelling. CBS anchor Audrina Sinclair emceed the evening. saltandlightcoalition.com

Kevin Boehm and Anya Amelichkina

Mary and Martin Sullivan

Izabel Olson, Jo rey Ballet Dancers

Jo rey Ballet Dancers

Dr. Izabel and Tony Olson

Rose Colcord

David and Teni Brown

Brooke Beardall

BELLA COSA SPARKLES

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JONATHAN

CASTELLON

Bella Cosa Jewelers debuted Phillips House, the newest designer to join Chicago’s North Shore. Founded by Lisa Phillips Frankel and Danielle Frankel Nemiro ff, the Phillips House is renowned for its Colombian emeralds, rare gemstones, and masterful craftsmanship, with designs worn by notable figures including former First Lady Michelle Obama. Guests enjoyed an intimate fashion presentation, where models showcased collections spanning bespoke high jewelry couture to modern fine jewelry, complemented by cocktails and light fare. Bellacosajewelers.com

SH ERIDAN ROAD 123

Danielle Fewkes, Kristin Davis, Abby Dunn

Pim Alley, Kristin Ryan

Bella Cosa Boutique Director, jewelry specialist, and gemologist Karina Hammer

Model Alexandra Arrieta

Bella Cosa founders, Joseph and Amy Molfese

Patricia Dolan, Dustin O’Regan, Francis Dolan

Models Alexandra Arrieta, Ariel Botbol, Angelique Glover

LIVING & GIVING

GOLD COAST FASHION SHOW

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SEAN SU OF PURPLE PHOTO GROUP

Fashion and philanthropy were celebrated at the Children’s Service Board’s 69th annual Gold Coast Fashion Show. Fall and winter designer fashions from Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue were showcased in a fast-paced, live runway show that raised critical funds to complete the board’s two-year $2 million commitment to the Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. Along with a luncheon that took place earlier in the week at e Drake, the 69th Gold Coast Fashion Show raised over $1.5 million. csb.luriechildrens.org

Gold Coast Fashion Show 2025 featuring Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue

Gold Coast Fashion Show chairs Cathryn Schmaltz, Alexandra Schwarzman

Karyn Kruschka

Kirby Weber

Genia Yovankin, Holley White

Karyn Kruschka, Nadia Cobalovic, Sydney Caine, Dana Jones

MARCH FOURTH IMPACT SOIRÉE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY WIDIA

VITI

Supporters gathered at RPM Events for an inspiring evening beneﬁting March Fourth, the nonpartisan movement advocating for pragmatic, bipartisan gun safety legislation to end mass shootings in America. Founded by Kitty Brandtner in the wake of the Highland Park parade tragedy, March Fourth continues to unite Republicans, Democrats, and gun owners around one shared belief: mass shootings should never be the norm. Event production was handled by elliestyled with ﬂorals by Saville Flowers and pots by Alexander Sandoval. Guests enjoyed catering by RPM and cocktails featuring Flecha Azul Tequila and Aspen Vodka. wemarchfourth.org

Kristina Baker, Cory Berlas, Katie Feld, Faith Atkins, Bridget Cassil

Will and Meg Moore

Whitney Port, Kitty Brandtner, Jade Port

Neal and Aubrey McCarthy Traci and Hamilton Hill

Scott Grossman, Katie Henderson, Cristina and Mike Cklamovski, Andrea Georgiadis, Brittany Brandon

Mary Marcus, John Perconti, Margaret and Je Black

LIVING & GIVING

LYRIC SEASON OPENING GALA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KYLE FLUBACKER AND JACLYN SIMPSON

Lyric Opera of Chicago launched its 2025/26 season in unforgettable style with Brian Stokes Mitchell & Laura Benanti in Concert, featuring two of Broadway’s most luminous, Tony Award-winning stars. e Lyric Opening Concert is the centerpiece of Lyric’s Season Opening Gala, presented by the Lyric Women’s Board. e Gala was led by Honorary Chair Shirley Welsh Ryan and chaired by Women’s Board member Suzanne Welsh Mulshine, with Karen Z. Gray-Krehbiel serving as president of the Women’s Board. Gala guests enjoyed a red carpet welcome, pre-performance cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, and premium concert seating, followed by an elegant dinner and lively dancing in the Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice Grand Foyer. lyricopera.org

General Director, President & CEO John Mangum, Women’s Board President Karen Z. GrayKrehbiel, Lyric Opening Gala Chair Suzanne Welsh Mulshine, and Board Chair Sylvia Neil

Melanie and Chris Rauch

Itamar Amrany and Natalie Pace Amrany

Conductor Rob Fisher and Tony Award winners Laura Benanti and Brian Stokes Mitchell take their bows

Nicole Steiner, Penelope Steiner

Shirley Welsh Ryan with Patrick G. Ryan

Margarita Chavez-Tatro, Kim Taylor-Smith

LIVING & GIVING

HOUSE IN THE WOOD GALA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEXIS

ECKERSALL

The North Shore Board of the Northwestern Settlement hosted a festive crowd at the Halim Time & Glass Museum in Evanston to beneﬁt Northwestern Settlement’s House In e Wood summer camp and outdoor education programs. e funds raised provide the opportunity for children to attend camp where they can ﬂourish and learn in a safe environment. northshoreboard.org

Amanda Sasse, Susan Hollender, Jaime Garrigus

Ellie O‘Donnell, Jen Constantini, Amanda Sasse, Kristy Alexander

Lauren Sweeney, Gina Pistorio, Patty O’Connell, Kelly Laszlo

Jacqueline and Brian Neal

Anna Derkin Wisniewski, Carrie Miller

Julie and Jason Magnani

Danielle Lapointe, Carole Wood

Claire Winnard, Jaime Garrigus

LIVING & GIVING

AN EVENING TO CELEBRATE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHERI WHITKO

The Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation celebrated its 40th anniversary with a sold-out fall beneﬁt at eater on the Lake, raising more than $1.4 million to fuel groundbreaking breast cancer research, education, and clinical trials. More than 800 guests gathered to honor what would have been Lynn Sage’s 80th birthday and pay tribute to the visionary founders whose legacy has driven over $50 million in impact over the last four decades. Guests enjoyed bites from Chicago’s top restaurants, specialty cocktails, and a spirited auction. lynnsage.org

Lynn Sage Executive Director Kirstin Chernawsky

Congressman Mike Quigley, Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza

Betsy Rubenstein, Philippe Ifergan, Amy Kadens

Jill and Charlie Mills

Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation Board of Directors

Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation Founders

LIVING & GIVING

LION EVENT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBERT KUSEL

JUF Women’s Philanthropy hosted its annual Lion Event at Ateres Ayala. is year’s event featured an Israeli father and son, retired Major General Noam Tibon and Amir Tibon, who heroically survived Hamas’ attack on October 7, 2023. Nearly 500 women came together and raised almost $3 million to support the JUF Annual Campaign, which provides life-saving services and life-enriching experiences for 500,000 Chicagoans of all faiths and millions of Jews worldwide. juf.org

Julia Klein, Rada Burdeen

Amy Fisher, Barbara Fox, Naomi Taylor

Becky Shalit, Major General Noam Tibon, Amir Tibon

Jamie Diamond Schwartz, Marilyn Diamond

Marlene Konik, Lisa Aronin

Devra Resnick Shutan, Paula Resnick

Lesley Sarno , Amy Yeager Hausman, Major General Noam Tibon, Amir Tibon, Lisa Gelles, Diane Roth

LIVING & GI VING

COLUMBIAN BALL

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF GRIFFIN MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY

Gri ﬃ n Museum of Science and Industry hosted its 45th Annual Columbian Ball in October. is year, the event raised $1.5 million to support Gri ﬃ n MSI’s commitment to nurturing curiosity and empowering diverse voices in science and technology. e special night welcomed 400 guests and showcased the Museum’s blockbuster temporary exhibit, Marvel’s Spider-Man: Beyond Amazing – The Exhibition. griffinmsi.org

Marvel’s Spider-Man: Beyond Amazing – The Exhibition

Duncan MacLean, Chevy Humphrey, Barry MacLean, Matt Boler

Auctioneer Matt Godbehere

Emcee Lexi Sutter

Briana and Peter Cohen

Kelley Conway

LIVING & GIVING

IGNITING CURES

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALAN LUNTZ

The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation hosted Igniting Cures, a powerful evening celebrating progress, connection, and hope for everyone a ff ected by Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Held at Loft 21, the event brought together more than 200 guests—patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and supporters—united in their commitment to finding cures. Guests enjoyed an inspiring program, cocktails, and dinner. e evening raised critical funds to advance research and improve the quality of life for those living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), underscoring the Foundation’s mission and the community’s unwavering dedication to a future free of IBD. crohnscolitisfoundation.org

Fire performer

Panel discussion

Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation sta

Artist Martha Nippert painting live fashion portraits

Alexandra McDermott, Alex Mathew, Lauren Capucci, Dr. David Rubin

PUBLISHER’S PROFILE

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IS ESSENTIAL TO HEALTHY AGING

WORDS BY CHIRAG PATEL, M.D., CEO, HANSA MEDICAL GROUPE / PHOTOGRAPHY BY MONICA KASS ROGERS

As we get older, our energy levels decrease, our bones become frail, and our risk of falling increases. Having a smart exercise regime is an important health recommendation we instruct our senior patients to prevent some of these problems.

It’s important for seniors to stay active and move more and sit less during any given day. Moderate intensity activities include walking briskly ( ree miles per hour speed), water aerobics, biking, tennis, ballroom dancing, and general gardening. Vigorous intensity exercise includes race walking, swimming laps, jump roping, heavy gardening or uphill hiking.

A good way to measure your intensity is by the target heart rate. We estimate between 64-76 percent of the maximum heart rate. For moderate-intensity physical activity, the age-related heart rate would be calculated as 220-50 = 170 beats per minute (bpm). 64 to 76 percent of that level would be 109 to 129 bpm. For vigorous-intensity physical activity the percentages are higher at 77 to 93 percent or 142 to 172 bpm in that same example.

It is important to know how to check your heartrate. First, stop exer-

LPublisher’s

Proﬁle

WORDS BY STEVEN BLOCH, M.D.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MONICA KASS ROGERS

PLASTIC SURGERY UPDATE: Bespoke Facelift

ooking your best takes work. Aging is inevitable. At some point, our reﬂection in the mirror looks older than we feel. is creates anxiety. We can either ignore it or seek the advice of a plastic surgeon.

As part of a consultation, a thorough evaluation is made of the face. Not everyone ages the same. Factors to be assessed include laxity of skin; loss of volume; excess volume; underlying bone structure; skin texture and wrinkles; position of eyebrows; position of cheeks; appearance of eyes; laxity of neck including platysmal bands and submental fat; and appearance of the lips.

e patient’s desires and concerns are paramount. A mutual plan must be agreed upon, costs must be considered, and risks assessed. I must also determine if the patient is realistic.

A bespoke facelift involves more than just tightening the skin. To create a natural look, what is done beneath the skin is important. At a deeper plane the soft tissue may need to be repositioned. Platysmal

cising brieﬂy to take your pulse. You can take your pulse at your neck, wrist, or chest. We recommend the wrist. You can feel the radial pulse on the artery of the wrist in line with the thumb. Place the tips of the index and middle ﬁngers over the artery and press lightly. Do not use the thumb as it has its own pulse. Take a full 60-second count of the heartbeat or take for 30 seconds and multiply by two.

e recommendation for older adults is around 30 minutes, ﬁve days per week of moderate intensity activity like brisk walking. Along with this, two days a week of muscle strengthening and improving balance type exercises.

Seniors may have limitations to exercise from medical problems like hip fractures, stroke, or osteoarthritis. Physical therapy can be an important resource to help design a speciﬁc exercise program that ﬁts the limitations. Many of the senior communities we visit our patients in, have great exercise programs, gait and balance activities, and on-site physical therapy.

ere are great ways to be physically active while still socially distancing. ese include household chores, increase activity or exercise while watching TV, or outdoor activities like walking, light to moderate yard work, and house cleaning. Working closely with your physician is also very important. is will help maximize exercise goals while protect you from further potential injury.

Hansa Medical Groupe has oﬃces at 5250 Old Orchard Road, Suite 300, in Skokie, and in Chicago, 847-920-0902, hansamedicalgroupe.com.

neck bands should be addressed. Jowls are lifted. Buccal fat may need to be reduced. Volume or fat grafting may be indicated. Excess fat needs to be removed and the area sculpted. Repositioning of the eyebrows, usually elevation may be warranted. Occasionally the upper lip needs to be shortened. I might have to remove excess skin and underlying bags around the eyes, and this is typically done at the same time. Sometimes fat is added along the rim or upper cheek. Finally, the skin may need to be resurfaced to address ﬁne lines and wrinkles. If everything is done correctly, the result should be a more youthful, refreshed look. It should not look “operated” on.

Once you’ve completed your facelift it’s important to maintain it. At our Med Spa, we have a host of treatments that can slow the aging process and enhance one’s appearance. If that person in the mirror is older than you feel, perhaps it’s time to come in for a consultation.

For additional information, visit bodybybloch.com or Dr. Bloch can be reached at his Highland Park o ce at 847-432-0840.

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PARTING WORDS

IT’S ON MY CALENDAR

Speech pathologist turned app founder Amy Briggs helps busy parents stay on top of their schedules.

WORDS BY THOMAS CONNORS / ILLUSTRATION BY ROBERT RISKO

When it comes to trying something new, some of us stick a toe in the water, shudder, and beat a retreat toward dry land. Others shiver but keep going. Pediatric speech pathologist Amy Briggs was no tech wiz when she set to work devising Aviva, a new virtual assistant scheduling app, yet she didn’t towel o until she achieved her goal. “I never had a career aspiration to build an app,” she says. “What I had was a problem I couldn’t stop thinking about, a strong pull to solve it, and a novel idea for a solution.”

In 2021, Briggs made the leap from school-based speech pathologist to private practice and was struck by the stress parents faced in the age of COVID. “I got a real view of what life was like for the families I supported,” she recalls. “I often found parents apologizing for falling short of perfection—for messy homes, imperfect snacks, and missed appointments. ey were all describing the mental workload of the increasingly high bar for modern parenthood in a system with little support. I was moved by the disparity between what I saw—incredibly loving and engaged parents moving mountains for their children—and the way these same parents regarded their own parenting. at lit a re in me to do something on a bigger scale than I could as a clinician, to lift this burden o parents’ shoulders.”

Well aware of the learning curve she faced (she had never written a line of code, yet aspired to launch a technical product heavily underpinned by AI), Briggs joined a WMNTech cohort at 1871, a local tech incubator. “I upskilled myself by learning every low-code and no-code tool I could get my hands on. rough the early mentoring conversations I had and my own tinkering, I eventually came up with a very simple ‘alpha’ version of Aviva that I built myself and could test. I invited users in for two-week trials, tracked their feedback closely, iterated and improved the product, and started wireframing my idea for the app.”

at initial user feedback was clear; parents felt relieved, feeling they had a safety net using Aviva. “ e most exciting part was the time they were saving, an average of four hours per week,” says Briggs. “ at’s when I knew I had to build a version of Aviva that could scale. I hired a developer and haven’t looked back since.”

A virtual scheduling assistant designed speci cally for parents, Aviva connects with Gmail and Google Calendar and turns emails into events automatically, even if an email is never opened. From there, Aviva ags event con icts and anticipates needs with automatic reminders, such as birthday gifts for parties your kids are invited to, or a heads-up about schedule changes. Everything Aviva adds to your calendar is visible in the app, and anywhere else you see your Google calendar (iPhone calendar app, Google Calendar app, Skylight calendars, desktops, laptops, etc).

“Aviva is unlike any other tool on the market,” says Briggs. “It’s not just a calendar; it actually does the full job of scheduling for you. When I did initial market research, I found that so many of the options for family scheduling support made an unful lled promise to users: start using this product, and your mental load will be lighter. e truth is, these products give users a big, new, invisible job to manage. Users must nd important events in their emails, send them into the app, keep their calendars updated, and share them with family members. at represents hours of time that parents don’t have to give.”

Briggs came up with the idea for Aviva in April 2024, built the alpha in September 2024, began beta testing the built app in June 2025, and launched the app publicly in September 2025. Looking back, she is delighted that the initial dip turned into a deep dive. “I’m a mom myself, and I know parents have no time to waste. If Aviva is doing its job, parents get more time for the things that I know matter for families—connection, shared experiences, and joy in the everyday moments of life. Parents need and deserve this kind of support, and I am so grateful to have the opportunity to o er it to them.”

For more information, visit withaviva.com.

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