WOMEN OF GOLD COAST: Stories of Strength, Success, and Sisterhood
LIFE + CULTURE HIGHLIGHTS FROM OUR UNFORGETTABLE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY COLLECTIVE MAY 2026
At IronGate Security Solutions, we set the standard for elite personal and private security across Chicago and beyond. Our highly trained professionals deliver a powerful blend of vigilance, precision, and discretion—ensuring your safety, privacy, and peace of mind at every moment.
From executive and celebrity protection to private residence patrols and event security, IronGate provides customtailored solutions designed to meet the unique needs of every client. We don’t just react—we anticipate, protect, and prevent.
With decades of combined law enforcement and military expertise, our team stands as your first and last line of defense. When it comes to safety, trust the strength behind the gate.
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concierge@irongatesecuritysolutions.com
A Celebration of Women Who Make the World Go Round
As we welcome the month of May, we are reminded of the strength, resilience, and beauty of the women who shape our lives and our communities every single day.
This month, Gold Coast City Lifestyle is proud to celebrate the incredible women who truly make the world go round. From visionary entrepreneurs and dedicated professionals to nurturing mothers, supportive sisters, loyal friends, and inspiring leaders—women continue to leave an undeniable mark on every corner of our community.
In this special issue, we shine a spotlight on women in business who are breaking barriers, creating opportunities, and leading with passion and purpose. We also honor the women at home who provide the foundation of love, strength, and stability that allows families and communities to thrive. Each story we share is a reminder that impact comes in many forms—and every role matters.
We are especially proud to highlight local women who are making a difference right here in our community. Their stories are powerful, their journeys are inspiring, and their contributions deserve to be celebrated.
To all the women reading this—thank you. Thank you for your strength, your grace, your courage, and your unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.
And to our readers and supporters, as always, we extend our deepest gratitude. Your continued support of Gold Coast City Lifestyle allows us to share these meaningful stories month after month. We are honored to be part of your lives and look forward to bringing you even more inspiring issues in the months ahead.
With appreciation and admiration,
DEANNA KUEMPEL, PUBLISHER @GOLDCOASTCITYLIFESTYLE
May 2026
PUBLISHER
Deanna Kuempel | deanna.kuempel@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Deanna Kuempel
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Annette Patko
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Proverbs 3:5-6
CARS. CULTURE. COMMUNITY.
CHICAGO'S #1 EXOTIC CAR STORAGE & SOCIAL CLUB
24/7 Climate-Controlled, Secure Vehicle Storage and Full-Service Management
Our facility offers 24/7 climate-controlled, fully secured vehicle storage with comprehensive management to ensure your car remains in optimal condition year-round. Every vehicle is kept on a battery maintainer (trickle charger), started and moved monthly to maintain mechanical health, and given a complimentary monthly wash so it’s always ready for the road.
Members-Only Cigar Lounge with Immersive Racing & Golf Simulator Experiences
Our members-only cigar lounge offers a refined, private environment designed for relaxation, connection, and entertainment. The space features professional-grade racing and golf simulators for immersive, highperformance experiences—whether you’re chasing a new lap time or sharpening your swing. Complementing the lounge is a full kitchen and a well-stocked selection of alcohol, giving members everything they need to host themselves and guests.
Exclusive Monthly Member Experiences Mixers, Rallys, Track days
Our members enjoy a carefully curated calendar of monthly events designed to connect, excite, and inspire. From highoctane track days and scenic rallies to elegant mixers, private tastings, and unique social gatherings, there’s always an experience that blends luxury, camaraderie, and adventure. Each event is an opportunity to network with fellow enthusiasts, create unforgettable memories, and fully immerse yourself in the lifestyle you love.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Holly Sias, CEO of Socialite media with her right hand, Sammy 2: There powerhouse ladies; Lisa founder of Tequila 1349 with Sammy & Holly with Socialite Media 3: Maria with A & N Mortgage at International Women’s Day Collective event 4: Running into Shana and meeting Priya at Wintrust event 5: Stopped in to the incredible Eden and met Chef Devon 6: Just enjoying the Wintrust March Madness event with Melissa Rickey of GCNA 7: Celebrating Modern Day Wife with inspiring women, meaningful connections, and unforgettable moments together
Want to be seen in the magazine?
ANNETTE PATKO
ANNETTE PATKO
ANNETTE PATKO
ANNETTE PATKO
ANNETTE PATKO
Hosted by award winning Deanna Radulescu, Label Free is a powerful platform created to inspire, empower, and uplift.
At Label Free, we believe true freedom comes from breaking the labels society puts on us—both personally and professionally.
We sit down for candid, eye-opening conversations with extraordinary individuals — entrepreneurs, innovators, artists, creators, executives, health and wellness leaders, and humanitarians who are making a meaningful impact.
Through their stories, we uncover valuable insights, practical wisdom, actionable takeaways, and real transformations that resonate deeply with our listeners.
This is your invitation to join us on a journey of selfdiscovery, empowerment, and living life label free.
FEATURED GUEST :
‘The Hydrogen Man’
Tune In. Be Inspired.
business monthly
Ozempic Face: How Sculptra Restores Natural Volume After Weight Loss
With the rise of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic® and Wegovy®, patients are experiencing incredible results in weight loss — but often with one unintended side effect: facial volume loss. At New Image Works in Chicago, Glenview, and Miami, our team specializes in natural-looking facial rejuvenation. Whether you’ve lost weight on Ozempic or simply want to restore youthful volume, treatments like Sculptra® can help rebuild collagen and bring balance back to your features.
Scan to read more
Face Massage Near Me: Ultimate Spring Skin Reset in Chicago
If you’ve searched for “face massage near me” in Chicago, you’re likely seeking more than relaxation. After winter stress, skin can appear dull and puffy. At Brazilian Lymph Spa, our Facial Lymphatic Massage is a non-invasive, sculpting treatment that reduces puffiness, enhances contour, and restores radiance. This advanced Brazilian technique supports your lymphatic system, delivering visible, natural results just in time for spring renewal.
Scan to read more
The Power of Balance: Heated & Non-Heated Programming at BIÂN
Over the course of a recent week at the club, nearly 64% of all classes were offered in non-heated environments, (56% of classes when excluding Reformer Pilates), creating a strong foundation of programming designed for sustainable training, nervous system support, and accessibility. Heated and extra-heated formats made up roughly one-third of the schedule, providing invigorating options for those who enjoy the intensity of heat-based movement.
Scan to read more
Photography by New Image Works
Photography by Brazilian Lymph Spa
Photography by BIÂN | A Luxury Private Club
ARTICLE BY KALI KASORZYK
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
BECKY HILLYARD
From Side Hustle to Style Empire
The power of taste, trust, and the courage to “just start.”
She didn’t have a business plan, a media budget, or even a name anyone could pronounce. What Becky Hillyard had was taste, a young family, and the instinct to just start. Today, her lifestyle brand Cella Jane commands an audience the size of Vogue’s , she’s nine collections strong with Splendid, and she’s built it all while raising three kids — refusing to sacrifice one for the other. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Becky shares what it really takes to build a brand, a career, and a life you love. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full conversation.
Q: WHEN DID YOU KNOW CELLA JANE WAS MORE THAN A HOBBY?
A: Two moments. Women started emailing me saying they bought something I recommended and felt amazing — asking me to help them find a dress for a wedding. That felt incredible. Then I looked at my affiliate numbers for one month and realized I could cover our mortgage. I thought, I can actually do this. I never set out to build a business. I started it because I genuinely loved it.
Becky in Splendid x @CellaJaneBlog Spring 2026 Collection
Q: WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST RISK YOU EVER TOOK WITH THE BRAND?
A: Designing my own collection. It’s easy to point at items on a website and say I love these. But to create something from scratch, put your name on it, and wait to see if people connect with it — that’s terrifying. I had an incredible partner in Splendid, and women loved the pieces. It was the biggest risk and the biggest accomplishment.
Q: HOW HAS INFLUENCER MARKETING CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED?
A: When I started, brands didn’t know whether to take it seriously. Now it’s a legitimate line item in their marketing budgets — sometimes bigger than TV. Because what we’ve built is trust. People trust a real recommendation from someone they follow far more than a commercial. There’s no question about it now.
Q: YOU’RE A MOM OF THREE RUNNING A FULL BRAND. WHAT DOES YOUR DAY ACTUALLY LOOK LIKE?
A: I try to get up at five and not hit snooze — that first hour before the house wakes up is the most productive, most peaceful hour of my day. Then it’s all hands on deck with the kids and school drop-off. After that I work — planning content, connecting with my team, editing. After pickup, the day shifts completely and it’s all about them. I’ve learned to protect both halves fiercely, because both matter.
Q: WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO BUILD SOMETHING OF THEIR OWN BUT KEEPS WAITING?
A: Don’t wait. Don’t wait for the perfect camera, the right strategy, or enough followers. We find every excuse to stay comfortable. Just start, be consistent, and be authentically yourself. The right people will find you — and they’ll stay.
This conversation is just the beginning. Becky goes deeper on the risks that almost stopped her, the design process behind her latest Splendid collection, and what she’d tell her 2012 self today. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.
“Trust is the only metric that actually compounds.”
— Becky Hillyard
THE POWER of good
“A visionary leader reminding us that resilience, joy, and ‘the simple good’ exist in all of us.”
HOW PRIYA IS INSPIRING A GLOBAL MOVEMENT ROOTED IN JOY
ARTICLE BY DEANNA KUEMPEL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE SIMPLE GOOD
“Leading with purpose and proving that even the smallest acts of good can create a global impact.”
“Empowering others to see the good within themselves— Priya is changing lives through connection, creativity, and heart.”
In a world often dominated by negativity, Chicago-based founder Priya Shah is quietly shifting the narrative—one act of “good” at a time.
As the visionary behind The Simple Good , Priya has created more than a nonprofit. She’s built a global movement rooted in self-worth, human connection, and the belief that joy can exist—even in life’s most difficult moments.
Her journey didn’t begin in a boardroom. It began across the world.
Through her international work, Priya spent time in communities throughout South Africa, Brazil, and even at Mother Teresa’s orphanage. What she witnessed there was unexpected. Despite facing immense hardship, the children she met radiated resilience, joy, and a deep sense of humanity. That experience sparked a powerful realization.
“The Simple Good has been a life’s journey,” Priya shares. “I realized that nobody actually taught me what’s good about me. People always tell you what you’re not.”
From that moment, her mission became clear: to help individuals—especially young people—recognize their inherent worth and the good they bring into the world.
At the heart of The Simple Good is a simple but transformative idea: defining “good” is essential to understanding ourselves and how we show up for others.
“No matter where we go in the world, good means the same to all of us,” Priya explains.
That universal truth has become the foundation of her work. By guiding individuals to identify their strengths, she empowers them to build confidence, resilience, and purpose—qualities that extend far beyond the individual and into the community.
A key element of this process is creative expression.
“Art is a natural pairing for us to understand ourselves and those around us,” Priya says.
Through art, participants are able to process emotions, explore identity, and connect more deeply with others. It becomes both a mirror and a bridge—helping individuals better understand themselves while fostering empathy and connection.
What began as a blog has since grown into a global nonprofit, impacting thousands of young people worldwide. Priya has witnessed firsthand the transformation that occurs when individuals begin to see their own value.
She describes shifts in behavior, increased confidence, and a stronger sense of safety and belonging among the youth she works with. These changes may seem subtle, but their longterm impact is profound.
“It’s a beautiful city filled with good people and incredible stories.”
For Priya, meaningful global impact starts locally. By engaging communities at the grassroots level, she believes change becomes more sustainable and far-reaching.
Her leadership style reflects that same intentionality. Having worked in both corporate and nonprofit spaces, Priya emphasizes the importance of authenticity and awareness.
Her advice for aspiring changemakers is simple: “Stay authentic to yourself and always be observant of the needs of the community.”
“No matter where we go in the world, good means the same to all of us.”
In a time when many struggle with self-doubt and disconnection, The Simple Good is addressing a critical need: rebuilding self-worth from within.
Despite its global reach, the organization’s roots remain firmly planted in Chicago.
“Chicago is very much a community-oriented city,” Priya says. “I’m very grateful that I started The Simple Good here.”
She is also passionate about reshaping the narrative around the city, highlighting its strength, diversity, and sense of connection.
It’s a reminder that impact isn’t about moving fast—it’s about moving with purpose.
Through it all, Priya remains grounded in mindfulness. Daily practices like reflection, deep breathing, and gratitude help her stay centered and aligned with her mission.
For her, living a meaningful life isn’t defined by success alone—it’s about creating impact and expanding that impact to as many people as possible.
“Learn something from everybody,” she says. “Those are all different lessons in life.”
Today, The Simple Good continues to grow, inviting others to be part of its mission as partners, volunteers, and advocates. Because at its core, this work isn’t just about one person—it’s about a shared belief.
A belief that even in the face of adversity, there is always something good to be found.
And when we choose to see it, we have the power to change not only our own lives—but the world around us.
CLEANING WITH CARE
Attention to detail for every customer.
How Val Is Redefining Clean Living in Chicago
ARTICLE BY DEANNA KUEMPEL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
In a city that never slows down, finding time to maintain a clean, organized home can feel like a luxury. For Val, founder of Val’s Cleaning Service, that realization became the foundation of a business built not just on spotless spaces—but on care, intention, and empowerment.
Val the Boss Lady
With roots in Brazilian culture and a passion for helping others, Val has transformed what it means to hire a cleaning service in Chicago—turning it into an experience grounded in trust, quality, and heart.
A VISION BORN FROM EXPERIENCE
Val’s journey began in 2010, when she moved to Chicago after living in New York. During that transition, she noticed something missing in the cleaning industry.
“I realized people needed a different style of cleaning,” Val shares.
She often found herself offering suggestions to cleaning teams—recommending better techniques and safer, chemical-free products. What started as small observations quickly evolved into a larger vision: creating a service that not only delivered exceptional results but also provided meaningful opportunities for others, especially those navigating language barriers and seeking stable careers.
MORE THAN CLEANING—A PHILOSOPHY
At the core of Val’s Cleaning Service is a simple but powerful belief: treat every home with the same care you would your own.
“We want to take care of the house the way we want to be treated,” she says.
This philosophy, which she calls “cleaning with care,” is rooted in her Brazilian upbringing—where cleanliness reflects pride, respect, and love. Whether it’s a downtown condo or a family home, Val and her team approach each space with attention to detail, creating environments that feel both polished and welcoming.
RAISING THE STANDARD
Entering Chicago’s competitive market wasn’t without challenges. One of the biggest was educating clients on the difference between standard cleaning and
Val's Team
“Time is luxury—and giving people that time back is the true value of what we do.”
the more detailed techniques she introduced.
“In Brazil, we are always cleaning and organizing,” she explains.
That elevated approach—paired with consistency and passion—has become the hallmark of her brand and a key reason clients continue to return.
TRAINING, TRUST, AND SUSTAINABILITY
What truly sets Val’s Cleaning Service apart is its commitment to professionalism. Every team member undergoes extensive training, regardless of prior experience, ensuring consistency and excellence.
“We make sure everyone is fully trained—no shortcuts,” Val says.
The company also prioritizes wellness by using eco-friendly, non-toxic products, reinforcing its commitment to both clients and the environment.
THE LUXURY OF TIME
For Val, cleaning is about more than appearance—it’s about giving people something invaluable: time.
“Time is luxury,” she says.
By handling the details of maintaining a home, her team allows clients to focus on what matters most—family, work, and well-being. The feeling of returning to a clean, organized space is not just satisfying—it’s transformative.
A PERSONALIZED EXPERIENCE
Understanding that no two clients are alike, Val’s Cleaning Service offers customized plans tailored to individual preferences and
lifestyles. From specific product requests to detailed routines, every service is designed with intention.
This personalized approach, combined with attentive customer care, has helped build a loyal and growing client base throughout Chicago.
COMMUNITY AT THE CORE
For Val, business is about more than service—it’s about connection. She treats her clients like family and actively participates in local partnerships and events, reinforcing her belief in community-driven impact.
“Community is very important to our brand,” she says.
That same sense of care extends to her team, fostering an environment where individuals feel valued and supported.
EMPOWERING OTHERS
As a female entrepreneur, Val encourages others to pursue their goals with confidence.
“If you don’t feel ready, never give up. Just try,” she advises.
Her journey reflects the power of perseverance and the importance of taking that first step—even when the path isn’t fully clear.
A CLEAN SPACE, A CLEAR MIND
At its heart, Val’s Cleaning Service is about more than cleaning—it’s about creating environments where people can thrive.
Because when care is at the center of everything, even the simplest services can make a lasting impact.
Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?
Or
Living
ARTICLE BY LAURIE LUTCH PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNETTE PATKO
Living Label Free: How Deanna Kuempel Is Empowering Women Through Voice, Vision, and Community
Label Free
In a world where labels often define—and limit—who we are, Deanna Kuempel has made it her mission to break them.
As the founder and host of the Label Free Podcast and a dynamic media personality, Deanna has built a platform rooted in authenticity, resilience, and empowerment. But beyond the mic and camera, she has become a powerful community connector—bringing people together through meaningful conversations and impactful events, including the recent International Women’s Day Collective held at A&N Mortgage in Chicago.
The event was more than a celebration. It was a reflection of Deanna’s journey, her purpose, and the growing movement she continues to lead.
FROM REINVENTION TO PURPOSE
Deanna’s career path has been anything but conventional. Like many women, her story is one of reinvention—of navigating challenges, embracing change, and stepping boldly into new opportunities.
“I created Label Free because I wanted people to understand that they don’t have to live within the expectations or limitations placed on them,” she shares.
What began as a podcast quickly evolved into a multi-platform brand, now streaming on Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire. Through her interviews with entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and change-makers, Deanna has cultivated a space where real conversations happen—where vulnerability meets strength, and where listeners are encouraged to see themselves in a new light.
Her message is simple but powerful: you are not defined by labels—you define yourself.
THE POWER OF STORYTELLING
At the heart of Deanna’s work is storytelling. Each episode of the Label Free Podcast goes beyond surface-level conversation, diving into the real-life experiences that shape who we are.
“I’ve learned that everyone has a story,” she says. “And when we share those stories, we create connection, understanding, and growth.”
Through these conversations, Deanna has not only inspired her audience but has also grown as a leader herself. Listening to others—hearing their struggles, their breakthroughs, and their lessons—has reinforced her belief that authenticity is the foundation of meaningful success.
Her platform has become a space where honesty is celebrated, and where guests are encouraged to share not just their wins, but the moments that shaped them.
Left page: Winner of Chicago Chop House Gift Card
This page, top: Loved having custom cocktails by Tequila 1349
Bottom: Jim McGreevy in the background giving away a bottle of wine
“WHEN WOMEN
COME TOGETHER WITH AUTHENTICITY, PURPOSE, AND PASSION, WE CREATE MORE THAN CONNECTION—WE CREATE COLLABORATION, MOVEMENT, MOMENTUM, AND MEANINGFUL CHANGE THAT EMPOWERS OTHERS TO RISE, LIVE BOLDLY, AND STEP FULLY INTO WHO
THEY ARE.”
A CELEBRATION OF WOMEN, TOGETHER
This philosophy came to life at the International Women’s Day Collective hosted at A&N Mortgage—a powerful gathering of women from diverse industries and backgrounds, united by a shared purpose: to celebrate, uplift, and empower one another.
For Deanna, participating in this event was deeply personal.
“This wasn’t just about celebrating women—it was about creating a space where women could truly see and support each other,” she says.
The room was filled with entrepreneurs, professionals, creatives, and leaders—each bringing their own story, energy, and perspective. The atmosphere was vibrant, but more importantly, it was intentional. Every interaction was rooted in connection, collaboration, and encouragement.
It was a reminder that when women come together with purpose, something powerful happens.
EXPANDING THE VISION INTO THE CITY
To expand the reach and impact of the event, Deanna partnered with her longtime friend and creative collaborator, Annette Patko of Bordeaux Studio. Together, they elevated the International Women’s Day Collective beyond a single event—bringing its energy and message into the city through Gold Coast City Lifestyle magazine.
“Annette and I have always shared a creative vision,” Deanna explains. “Partnering together allowed us to take this experience to another level and give these women a platform to be seen and celebrated.”
Through this collaboration, the stories of the women involved were amplified, ensuring that the impact of the event extended far beyond that day. It became a lasting moment captured in print—one that continues to inspire.
A COMMUNITY EFFORT
This unforgettable event would not have been possible without the incredible support of its sponsors.
Deanna and her team extend their deepest gratitude to Tecalitlan Mexican Kitchen, Bread & Butter Wines, Chicago Chop House, City of Hope, Pinnacle Fertility, Azul, A&N Mortgage, Viva La Med Spa, The Wayfair Store, Bordeaux Studio, Brazilian Lift Spa, Socialite Media, Wintrust, Sapori Trattoria, and Tequila 1349.
Their generosity and participation helped bring this vision to life and created an experience that resonated with every woman in attendance.
“We are so grateful that so many people showed up, supported, and believed in what we are building,” Deanna shares. “It truly takes a community.”
With such an overwhelming response, the excitement for what’s next is already building.
“We’re just getting started,” she adds. “We’re looking forward to the next one.”
BUILDING COMMUNITY THROUGH CONNECTION
Deanna’s work is rooted in one core belief: connection is everything.
Through her podcast, events, and media presence, she has created spaces where people feel seen, heard, and valued.
“Community is so important,” she says. “We’re not meant to do life alone. When we come together and support each other, we all rise.”
The International Women’s Day Collective embodied that belief—bringing women together not in competition, but in collaboration and celebration.
REDEFINING WHAT IT MEANS TO BE ‘LABEL FREE’
For Deanna, living “label free” is not just a phrase—it’s a way of life.
It means letting go of societal expectations, limiting beliefs, and self-imposed barriers. It means embracing who you are fully, even when it feels uncomfortable.
“Being label free means owning who you are—fully and unapologetically,” she says.
This mindset has guided her through her journey and continues to inspire others to step into their own power.
A VISION FOR THE FUTURE
As the Label Free brand continues to grow, Deanna is focused on expanding her reach and deepening her impact—through storytelling, media, and community-driven experiences.
She is not just building a brand—she is building a movement. A movement centered on authenticity, empowerment, and connection.
A MESSAGE TO EVERY WOMAN
At the heart of everything Deanna does is a message she hopes every woman carries with her:
You are not defined by your past, your circumstances, or anyone else’s expectations.
You have the power to create your own story.
And when you choose to live authentically—when you choose to live label free—you give others permission to do the same.
Because when women come together with purpose, passion, and authenticity, there are no limits to what they can achieve.
Group Picture
DELIGHT MOM WITH HOMEMADE BELGIAN WAFFLES
ARTICLE BY MATTHEW SOUSA
Mother’s Day is the perfect occasion to treat Mom to a special homemade breakfast, and nothing says “I love you” like a plate of warm, fluffy Belgian waffles. These waffles are crispy on the outside, light and airy on the inside, and perfect for a delicious morning celebration.
CLASSIC BELGIAN WAFFLE RECIPE
Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 eggs, separated
• 1¾ cups milk
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks, then mix in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
4. In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gently fold them into the batter.
5. Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease it. Pour in enough batter to cover the surface and cook until golden brown and crisp.
Serving Suggestions:
Top the waffles with fresh berries, whipped cream, and a drizzle of maple syrup or chocolate sauce. Pair with a hot cup of coffee or fresh orange juice for a perfect Mother’s Day surprise.
This simple yet elegant breakfast is a heartfelt way to show Mom just how much she means to you. Happy Mother’s Day!
BREAKFAST Mother’s Day
151st Kentucky Derby Hat and Watch Party!
Astor Club, 24 E Goethe St., Chicago | 2:00 PM
Wear your best hats and outfits at Astor Club for the 2026 Kentucky Derby in its 152nd renewal of The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports! Last year's event sold out, so please request passes early to ensure attendance. Price: This event is included as part of your membership privileges.
MAY 7TH
Lincoln Park Uncorked 2026: An Armitage-Halsted Wine Stroll
Armitage, from Kenmore to Halsted | 6:00 PM
Gather your fellow wine aficionados for Lincoln Park Uncorked: An Armitage – Halsted Wine Stroll! Take a picturesque stroll through one of Chicago’s most charming neighborhoods while stopping at local businesses to sample seasonal wines and light fare from Lincoln Park eateries. From bold reds to crisp whites, there’s a taste for every palate.
MAY 14TH
WESOS: Gold Coast Chapter
Azul, 1177 N Elston Ave., Chicago | 6:00 PM
The WESOS chapter, led by Deanna Kuempel, is a dynamic community empowering women through authentic connection, collaboration, and growth. Bringing together entrepreneurs and professionals, it fosters meaningful relationships, personal development, and business success. Rooted in the “Label Free” mission, the chapter encourages women to own their voice, support one another, and lead with confidence and purpose.
MAY 14TH
18th District CAPS Beat Meeting
First St. Paul's Church, 1301 N LaSalle Dr., Chicago | 6:00 PM
CAPS is an innovative partnership that unites police, community members, and City agencies to proactively identify and solve neighborhood crime problems through collaboration, neighborhood-level problem solving, and shared responsibility for safer communities. CAPS Beat Meetings for our beat, beat 1824, are held at First St. Paul’s Church, 1301 N LaSalle Dr.
MAY 15TH
Spring Wholesale Wine Night with Lakeshore Sport & Fitness
Harvest at Lakeshore Sport & Fitness 1320 W. Fullerton Chicago | 6:00 PM
Join Lakeshore Sport & Fitness for their Spring Wine Wholesale Night! With over 40 wines to taste, stock up at below retail prices for the summer! Dinner is included. Non members and guests are welcome!
MAY 31ST
Glitterati on the Gold Coast Walking Tour
Chicago History Museum 1601 N. Clark St. Chicago, | 10:00 AM
Hosted by the Chicago History Museum, this 1.5–2 hour tour explores historic mansions and architecture from the Gold Coast's elite, including Frank Lloyd Wright and Louis Sullivan designs.
