JS Construction & Home Services LLC JSCONSTRUCTION.HOMES
Floor Coverings International FLOORCOVERINGSINTERNATIONAL.COM
Dayhouse Coworking WWW.DAYHOUSECOWORKING.COM
Edit + Design EDITANDDESIGN.COM
Finish Strong FINISHSTRONGKIDS.COM
The Foxtail On The Lake THEFOXTAILONTHELAKE.COM
Girl and the Kitchen GIRLANDTHEKITCHEN.COM
Tom Gorges | Real Estate Broker @properties Glenview North ATPROPERTIES.COM
Source Healing SOURCEHEALING.COM
Twice the Measure TWICETHEMEASURE.COM
Mireille’s Studio MIREILLESSTUDIO.COM
Vivica Partners VIVICAPARTNERS.COM
Paul Rehder Salon PAULREHDERSALON.COM
Closets by Design | Chicago North CHICAGONORTH.CLOSETSBYDESIGN.COM
Sharing the Spirit of the Season
Dear Readers,
As we unveil the second issue of our magazine, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of you for being part of this journey with us. It’s truly inspiring to see the enthusiasm and warmth our first issue received, and it motivates us to keep bringing you stories, insights, and ideas that connect with what matters most.
As we enter the holiday season—a time of reflection, celebration, and gratitude—our focus naturally turns to family, loved ones, and the spirit of giving. Whether it’s gathering with those we cherish, creating new memories, or simply appreciating the people who fill our lives with joy, this season invites us to pause and recognize the beauty of those connections.
In this edition, we’ve curated articles that celebrate the warmth of family traditions, the joy of giving, and the importance of reconnecting with what makes us feel at home. We hope these stories will spark new ideas for celebrating the holidays and inspire you to share the season’s joy with those you love.
Check out our main feature highlighting local actor and producer Guy Nardulli, who talks about the joy he feels returning to his roots and family in Chicago during the holiday season. Also in this issue, we’ve included a roundup of area nonprofits if you’re looking to donate to a worthy cause or volunteer your time. Our Local Limelight section features a Winnetka-based esthetician offering all-natural skincare and makeup artistry services to get you primped and ready for holiday parties (or solve your gift-giving needs). Finally, check out local acupuncturist Christie Jordan’s top tips for nourishing our bodies, warding off illness, and managing stress during this busy time of year.
Thank you for letting us be a part of your journey and for sharing in ours. Here’s to a season filled with warmth, gratitude, and the love of family and friends.
Warmly,
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Keely Conrey | keely.conrey@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Amelia Levin | amelia.levin@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Amee McCaughan | amee@ameemccaughan.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Mila Furman, Christie Jordan, Dieter Marlovics
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Dexter Brown, Bobby Quillard
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
Photography:
Photo provided by Chicago Botanic Gardens
May the spirit of the holiday season fill your home with warmth, joy and beautifully designed moments with family and friends.
Happy Holidays!
city scene
1: Becky Thalmann, Vivica Partners, leads a Powerhouse Women’s in Business Workshop at The Social Loft 2: Tanya Pomernets (left) and Stephanie Bonillo, Lynch McPeek Wealth Management, at the Powerhouse Women’s Workshop 3: George and Ava Markoutsas of ABLAZE Design Group in Highwood host a realtor mixer 4: Moria Berstein, attorney (left), Carolyn Cerf, @properties, and Ellen Chukerman, Compass, at ABLAZE’s mixer 5: Nicki Sutherland, Gratitude Generation (left) and Samantha Trace, @properties, at ABLAZE’s mixer 6: North Shore Exchange founder Wendy Serrino (far right) with board at a recent grant reception 7: Lena Kezdy, NS Exchange (left), and Kellie Sbrocchi at the 900 Shops' Return of the Runway
NICOLE THOMAS PHOTOGRAPHY, LTD.
NICOLE THOMAS PHOTOGRAPHY, LTD.
CURTIS PENNE PHOTOGRAPHY
CURTIS PENNE PHOTOGRAPHY
CURTIS PENNE PHOTOGRAPHY
Transform your home with ABLAZE Design Group, a premier Design-Build firm offering everything from designs and renovations to painting, decorating, cabinetry, and shades. Explore our downtown Highwood store for home goods and expert services that will elevate every corner of your home.
Join a curated cohort of six to eight modern leaders for monthly, dynamic workshops led by Becky Thalmann, a transformational leadership expert and certified executive coach. Together, you’ll tackle your own challenges, make informed decisions, and maximize your potential with the support of a collaborative community. Learn more at vivicapartners.com/pvx and @vivicapartners on Instagram.
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New Source Healing Location in Lake Forest
Source Healing, a holistic wellness clinic in the Chicagoland area specializing in pain and stress management as well as women's health and fertility, now has a third location in Lake Forest (222 E. Wisconsin Ave., Suite 111). For more information, visit sourchealing.com and @sourcehealingchicago on Instagram.
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Leah Bolger Design Earns New Accolades
Leah Bolger (of Leah Bolger Design) earned a 2024 Modern Luxury Design 9 Award for "Best Bathroom" for a North Shore client's new condo in the Gold Coast. Bolger also recently participated in a panel discussion on "Designing Tomorrow's Kitchens Today" at Design Chicago this fall. Learn more at leahbolger.design and @leahbinteriordesign on Instagram.
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JS Construction Expands Three Tarts Bakery
JS Construction, a high-end custom home builder offering a personal touch for commerical remodeling projects, completed a renovation of Three Tarts Bakery's kitchen, office, storage and phone order station to help the beloved business expand its offerings. The construction company also gutted the adjacent unit, a former hair salon, to expand the Northfield-based cafe for more seating. Learn more at jsconstruction.homes and @js_constructionhomeservices on Instagram.
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Twice the Measure Announces New Promotion
Congratulations to Aleks Dobric on his promotion to journeyman and to Catarino Garcia on his three-year anniversary with Twice the Measure, a full-service home construction and remodeling company owned by Dario Dobric. Learn more at twicethemeasure.com and @twicethemeasure on Instagram.
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Dayhouse Coworking Opens New Location
Dayhouse Coworking has offered a serene and supportive workspace in downtown Highland Park since 2019. Now, Dayhouse is expanding to Schaumburg, with a new location set to open in early 2025 in the historic Old Town district. Learn more at dayhousecoworking.com and @dayhousecoworking on Instagram.
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Giving Back
5 LOCAL NONPROFITS TO SUPPORT THIS SEASON
ARTICLE BY AMELIA LEVIN
Youth Services
This 52-year-strong mental health agency supports children of all ages with individual and group counseling, after school tutoring, suicide and crisis response services, outreach and education at its facility in Glenview. Heavily discounted services are made possibly through donations and grants. Volunteers are needed to help wrap and distribute gifts during the holidays. ysgn.org
WINGS supports survivors of domestic violence through safe housing, counseling, mentoring and more. Consider donating everyday essentials or participating in the agency’s annual holiday gift drive—this season’s goal is to collect 2,600 new, unwrapped gifts for adult and child survivors. wingsprogram.org
The Great Lakes Adaptive Sports Association (GLASA) celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, offering sport-based programs for youth, adults, and injured veterans with primary physical or visual disabilities, such as cerebral palsy, stroke, muscular dystrophy, spina bifida and more. Donations and volunteers are always needed. glasa.org
Woman’s Club of Wilmette
The Woman's Club of Wilmette has served the North Shore for more than 130 years by supporting community nonprofits and organizations with funding and volunteers. Consider hosting an event at WCW’s new Phoenix Room, a modern venue for weddings, meetings, networking gatherings and more while the club’s theatre space undergoes renovations. Consider booking your next event here. womansclubofwilmette.org
Founded in 2012, NSE’s mission is to provide funding to organizations that offer human services for low income families and children across the Midwest as well as the Family Service of Glencoe locally. With upscale consignment stores in Glencoe, Wilmette and Chicago, 100% of profits go to Chicagoland charities. Proposals for new programs are accepted. northshoreexchange.org
Wings' annual fundraiser raises funds to support domestic violence survivors
The play therapy room at Youth Service's Glenview facility
The Great Lakes Adaptive Sports Association (GLASA) offers sport-based programming for children, adults and veterans with physical and visual disabilities
The Woman's Club of Wilmette supports local nonprofits and offers The Phoenix Room for weddings and other events.
An inside look at North Shore Exchange's Glencoe store
Natural Elegance
ARTICLE BY AMELIA LEVIN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMEE MCCAUGHAN
CELEBRITY ESTHETICIAN
MIREILLE HAMON'S NEWEST STUDIO IN WINNETKA BLENDS FRENCH SOPHISTICATION WITH ALL-NATURAL SKINCARE SERVICES
Mireille Hamon in her new studio location in Winnetka.
“We are not a medical spa with injections; we offer pure skincare services only
Mireille Hamon was just 12 years old when she first dreamed of becoming an esthetician after watching her neighbor, a local spa owner, enjoy success in the field. Born and raised in the Loire Valley of France, Hamon started working at the spa at the age of 16, and later received formal training at the Chantale Le Cozic cosmetology school in Rennes. Fast forward to today and Hamon, a former head makeup artist for “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” focuses on all-natural skincare and makeup services at her two studios.
“My very first job in Chicago was on Oak Street, which is where I opened my first location in 2003,” says Hamon, whose impressive client list has included A-list celebrities, rock stars and newsmakers over the years.
Earlier this year, Hamon opened her second location on Elm Street in Winnetka, offering a cozy space with French flair and all of her signature services, including various types of facials,
Mireille's Studio in Winnetka offers a variety of facials as well as micro channeling for natural skin enhancement.
Mireille's Studio in Winnetka offers makeup application, airbrushing, consulting and 90-minute tutorials.
skincare treatments and waxing as well as eyebrow sculpting, lamination and tinting, customized makeup application, consultations for weddings and events, and 90-minute, hands-on tutorials.
“We are not a medical spa with injections; we offer pure skincare services only,” Hamon says. “We also offer microchanneling, which is similar to microneedling but much less invasive.”
In addition, Mireille’s Studio offers services for men, including grooming, waxing, eyebrow shaping and facials. “These make great gifts during the holidays,” she says.
If you’re considering makeup for the holidays, Hamon notes, “we’ll prep the skin and possibly recommend an oxygenation facial beforehand so the skin is glowing for makeup for parties.”
Gift cards—as well as select retail items—are available for purchase in stores and online.
Mireille Hamon (center) with technicians Maryam Tabrizi and Adrian Medina at her newest studio location in Winnetka.
Mireille Hamon, owner of Mireille's Studio, completed her formal esthetician training in France, where she was born and raised.
at Celebree School of Northbrook!
Get ready to welcome the new season with a new beginning! Celebree School of Northbrook is opening this February, and we’re enrolling now. Visit our welcome center today to secure your spot and learn how we nurture a love of learning in every child. Limited spaces available! Visit Our Welcome Center Today! Contact Us to Learn More: (847) 597-1110
Celebree School of Northbrook is currently seeking full time Infant, Toddler, Preschool, & School Age Teachers! Scan to learn more!
ACTOR GUY NARDULLI RETURNS TO HIS ROOTS FOR "DIRTY HANDS"
Home for the Holidays
ARTICLE BY DIETER MARLOVICS | EDITED BY AMELIA LEVIN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DEXTER BROWN AND BOBBY QUILLARD
Coming home and working in Chicago has always been something I wanted to do.
Guy Nardulli is Chicago proud. A Harwood Heights native, the actor, known for his gritty portrayal of New York mobster “Johnny The Zip” on Sylvester Stallone’s hit show “Tulsa King,” was in the process of relocating from Los Angeles to his hometown when we caught up with him to learn more about his new movie, “Dirty Hands.”
TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT “DIRTY HANDS” AND WHEN WE MIGHT EXPECT A RELEASE.
It’s a gritty, dark, action thriller-slash-redemption story about two brothers who follow a drop and have to deal with the repercussions when the drug deal goes bad. The top billings are Patrick Muldoon, Denise Richards, Michael Beach, Kevin [Interdonato] and me. Kevin also wrote and directed the movie. Production is going on right now, and we’re targeting a release for next fall. The movie is being filmed almost entirely in Harwood Heights where I grew up. The amount of support this movie has received from the City of Harwood Heights and Chicago, in general, has gone way beyond my expectations. I have many people I know from my high school [Ridgewood High School] letting me film in their businesses, restaurants, and stores. That kind of connection to people and places is really what it’s all about.
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO FILM YOUR NEXT FILM IN CHICAGO?
It was a no-brainer for me to make Chicago the backdrop of the movie. I strongly believe Chicago is the greatest city in the world and I’m not saying that just because I’m from here. I’ve been to New York, Miami,
Vegas, lived in Italy and spent the last 21 years in Los Angeles, but there is nothing Chicago—the food, the restaurants, the people, the traditions, the values. You walk down the street in Chicago and people say hello to you—I don’t get that in other big cities. Even though I’ve been living in L.A., I’m still a Bears fan, a Blackhawks fan, a Bulls fan, a White Sox fan and I’ve also rooted for the Cubs. Coming home and working in Chicago has always been something I wanted to do.
YOU COME FROM A FOUR GENERATION ITALIAN FAMILY AS THE SON OF A CHICAGO POLICE OFFICER, AND YOU WERE A TWO-TIME ALL-AMERICAN FOR THE FOOTBALL TEAM AT ELMHURST COLLEGE. HOW DID MAKE THE SWITCH TO HOLLYWOOD AND ACTING?
One of the first languages I learned was Italian. My grandmother, who passed away three years ago at almost 100 years old, didn’t speak a lick of English. Knowing Italian actually helped me book roles later in my career such as in the movie “Red Notice” where I played an Italian valet guy and got to yell—in Italian—at The Rock. After playing football, I did some fitness modeling and some people told me I should go to Hollywood. So I went out to L.A. and met with a casting director. I had no idea what auditions were like. Somebody handed me a piece of paper and told me to read it, so I did. Right away I booked General Hospital. Then, as fast as I got the job, I died on the show. But the acting bug really bit me, so I kept trying, and fortunately, I’ve been working pretty consistently ever since.
I love how in Chicago around the holidays, we all get together, and everyone gives back to their communities. “ ”
YOU’RE MOVING BACK FROM SUNNY CALIFORNIA TO YOUR HOMETOWN JUST IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAYS (AND SNOW) WHILE MANY CHICAGOANS TAKE FLIGHT TO WARMER DESTINATIONS AROUND THIS TIME. WHY THE BIG CHANGE?
I adore the holiday season in Chicago and have come home every Christmas for the past 21 years. My whole family is here—my mom, my dad, my two younger sisters, their kids, my cousins, my aunts, my uncles. I come from a huge family. I love how in Chicago around the holidays, we all get together, and everyone gives back to their communities.
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE HOLIDAY FOODS OR TRADITIONS?
We always enjoy the Feast of the Seven Fishes on Christmas Eve. My mom also makes panza [panzerotti], which is a fried pizza pocket similar to a calzone, and we eat those all day long. A family member always dresses up as Santa. My father dressed up when I was younger for a bit. Then it was my uncle’s turn. Now, I’ve been playing Santa Claus for my nephews and nieces. Although last year, one of my nieces figured out it was me when I forgot to change my shoes to boots. I was busted! We like to keep our traditions strong in our family—just like many Chicago families during the holidays.
Created by Margarita Challenger, inspired by the vibrant flavors of her home region in Guanajuato, Mexico. After moving to Chicago’s North Shore suburbs, Margarita set out to bring the authentic taste of her roots to the community.
For two decades, Guanajuato has celebrated Mexico’s culinary traditions with fresh, seasonal ingredients and timehonored cooking techniques, offering locals a true taste of Mexico.
Visit us for a great lunch or dinner at our Tacos Guanajuato location at 20771 N Rand Rd Kildeer, IL 60047
North Shore’s Most Trusted Driving School
We are a third generation family business that has been in the Cook/Lake county area for 78 years. At Adams, we believe the lessons you learn will last you a lifetime. Our overall goal is to teach new drivers safe habits that will help prepare them for all obstacles on the road.
- Certified Instructors
- Structured Lessons
- Flexible Schedules
- Up-To-Date Curriculum
- Road Test Preparation
- Road Tests
- Refresher Courses
847.242.0501 | myguanajuato.com 1005 Green Bay Road, Winnetka, IL 60093 V@guanajuato_tequila
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org
ARTICLE BY CHRISTIE JORDAN, FOUNDER, SOURCE HEALING PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
BY
SOURCE HEALING
MORE MERRY
LESS STRESS
How to boost your health and immunity during the holidays
With the change of season, approaching holidays, and crazy family and work schedules, our bodies’ immune systems can glitch. Here are some ways to help nourish your body during these busy times.
1. PAY ATTENTION TO SIGNALS.
Your body is constantly sending you signals in the form of symptoms like fatigue, anxiety, headaches, digestive troubles and pain. Learn to see symptoms as a heads up to nourish your body, just as how you pay attention to problem indicators coming from the dashboard of your car.
Over time, chronic stress depletes the body’s energy stores and our immune defenses. Reset your chemistry each day in simple ways like breathing consciously, taking walks in nature, practicing yoga, singing, meditating or just sitting still.
Flow with the season, not against it. In Eastern medicine, the winter (yin) season is when we should turn our energy inward and hibernate. As the days get shorter and colder, consider slowing down, sleeping more and conserving energy for the spring. Too much intense exercise and lack of sleep can be depleting over time.
2. RESET YOUR NERVOUS SYSTEM.
3. FOCUS INWARD AND DO LESS.
4. NOURISH YOUR BODY PROPERLY.
Your immune system starts in your gut. Eating more fiber from fresh, non-processed foods creates a healthy microbiome to protect against diseases. Also, consider adding supplements like vitamin D3, zinc and probiotics to your daily routine, or seek advice from a nutritionist for more tailored recommendations.
5. PREVENT AND TREAT ILLNESS.
Acupuncture and herbal therapy have been used for thousands of years to boost the immune system, treat colds and flus, relieve stress and bring the body into homeostasis (aka, balance). You may also want to try dry skin brushing three times a week, or for more advanced illness prevention, consider lymph enhancement therapy (LET) and massage to filter out viral debris and boost immune function.
Heirloom photographic art for your home. Because time flies & family is everything. Starting with an in-home design consultation to plan a unique portrait session or curate your existing images, we create artwork to celebrate the beauty of your most precious relationships.
CLIENTS RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY 16X20 PRINT
MILA’S BERRY AND THYME HUGO SPRITZ
Hailing from the south Tyrol region of Italy, the Hugo Spritz is a classic Italian aperitivo created in 2005 by bartender Roland Gruber, who swapped lemon balm in the original recipe for elderflower liqueur. Here, it’s paired with fruit, thyme and prosecco for an herbaceous and elegant cocktail that’s perfect for holiday parties.
ingredients:
• 1/2 ounce St. Germaine elderflower liqueur
• 4 ounces chilled champagne or prosecco
• 1 ounce soda or sparkling water
• Mixed berries
• Sprig of thyme
directions:
Step 1. Add all the liquid ingredients to a rocks, champagne, wine or other fancy glass. Stir briefly and gently to combine.
Step 2. Top with a few fresh berries and/or chopped strawberries and thyme and enjoy!
Step 3. For a non-alcoholic version, use elderflower syrup in place of the St. Germaine. Add a dash of simple syrup for a sweeter version.
ARTICLE BY CHEF/OWNER MILA FURMAN, GIRL AND THE KITCHEN
Hyunjung Lee, DC, LCP
Revive Family Chiropractic Health revived is Life without Fear. revivefamilychiro.co (847) 780-9005
Where Your Journey To Wellness Begins.
Revive Family Chiropractic is a place of healing for families who wish to address the root cause of their ailments through holistic chiropractic practice. We provide thorough evaluations, prioritize education on wellness and nutrition, and aim to empower you to take control of your health.
Join us on a transformative journey to unlock your body’s full healing potential and embrace a renewed state of health.
FOR THE KIDS
Finish Strong Kids is a youth sports club offering classes and leagues for Pre-k – elementary students. We use sports to teach children how to be a good friend, have fun, build confidence and grow into awesome people!
Join us for programming at one of the following locations: Highwood, Highland Park, Deerfield, Glencoe, Lake Forest + MORE LOCATIONS COMING SOON...
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
DECEMBER / DATES AND TIMES VARY
Chicago Botanic Garden’s Lightscape
1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe
Embrace the spirit and beauty of the season at this highly-anticipated event running through January 5. This year’s reimagined trail, set aglow with light, art and music takes the Garden’s 6th annual holiday celebration to new heights with dazzling new installations debuting in the U.S. for the first time. chicagobotanic.org
DECEMBER 6TH
Holiday Tree Lighting
Dwyer Park, 521 Birch St., Winnetka | 4:00 PM
Enjoy the Village of Winnetka’s annual tree-lighting tradition with carols and treats. Stop by Skokie School, 520 Glendale Ave., Winnetka, the next day, from 10 a.m. to noon, for Alvin the Elf’s Winter Carnival featuring carnival games, cookie decorating, delicious refreshments and a real reindeer. winpark.org
DECEMBER 6TH
Buck Russell’s Winter Wonderland Cupcake Class
1137 Greenleaf Ave., Wilmette | 12:00 PM
Chef Bobbi Ellis leads this whimsical cupcake workshop (capped at 15 guests), complete with a take-home apron and six pack of DIY decorated cupcakes. Snacks and beverages will be provided with the option to include a beer or wine package for $10. Tickets are $35. buckrussells.com
DECEMBER 7TH
Cookie & Cocoa Crawl
486 Roger Williams Ave., Highland Park | 11:30 AM
The Ravinia District hosts its annual event with a special pre-crawl performance this year at 11 a.m. by Darian Sanders (Simba) and Khalifa White (Nala) from Disney’s “The Lion King”, followed by acts by Cabaret ZaZou presenting “Luminaire.” Bags will be provided to collect homemade cookies from some of HP’s favorite bakeries, including The Chunky Scone and Sugarcoated. enjoyhighlandpark.com
DECEMBER 7TH
Elf Invasion Pub Crawl
28 Mile, 454 Sheridan Rd., Highwood | 2:00 PM
Get all “Elfed Up" at this annual pub crawl at downtown Highwood's most popular establishments. Channel your inner elf by dressing the part and enjoy live music, food and drink specials and raffle prizes. Groups can sign up ahead of time to reserve space at each bar. Tickets are $25. celebratehighwood.org
DECEMBER 8TH
North Shore Exchange holiday shopping event
372 Hazel Ave., Glencoe | 10:00 AM
Shop for the holidays and enjoy an additional 10% off all in-store purchases. Earn a free $20 gift card for every $100 spent on gift cards for others. All of North Shore Exchange profits go to selected Chicagoland charities. northshoreexchange.org
6 STEPS TO RADIANT SKIN: YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO A GLOW-UP ROUTINE
In a world full of skincare products and promises, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But here’s the good news: glowing, healthy skin doesn’t need to require a dozen steps. With a few essential products and a mindful routine, you can achieve that radiant, youthful look with ease.
1. START WITH A CLEANSER: Cleansing is the foundation of any skincare routine. Choose a cleanser that is appropriate for your skin type. The goal is to remove impurities without stripping your skin of its natural oils. Many often need to do a double cleanse.
2. EXFOLIATION: A gently mechanical and/or chemical exfoliation product is key. These will help minimize dead skin cells from sitting on the surface which can contribute to dullness as well as making lines/wrinkles appear deeper.
3. ANTIOXIDANTS: A product containing quality antioxidants can do a world of change for your skins health and appearance. These can help with environmental damage, brightening, reducing inflammation, and soothing the skin for that glow we are all seeking.
4. SPF IS NON-NEGOTIABLE: Protecting your skin from sun damage is essential for long-term health. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily—even on cloudy days. This is the easiest way to prevent wrinkles, dark spots, and other signs of aging. Bonus is to also use a SPF that also protects from IR and blue light - these can shield skin from pollution, blue light, and infrared radiation
5. GIVE YOUR SKIN SOME EXTRA LOVE WITH SERUMS: Serums target specific skin concerns, like dullness, fine lines, or dark spots.
6. INDULGE IN A FACIAL SERVICE: A facial is more than just a relaxing spa treatment—it’s a powerful tool for maintaining healthy, radiant skin.
GIFT YOURSELF A VISIT TO WILD MOON COLLECTIVE FOR A CUSTOMIZED SKINCARE REGIMEN TAILORED TO YOUR UNIQUE SKIN NEEDS OR A FACIAL SERVICE WITH ONE OF OUR SKINCARE EXPERTS. With these simple steps, you can achieve the luminous, dewy skin you’ve always wanted. Skin health is a journey, and the results are worth it.
