







After the hottest summer on record the thought of cooler days ahead is so welcome. And with the change of season, we lean in more on style and fashion.
In this issue, we have some wonderful collaborations to share with you. On the home front Glenn Hofstra, Vanguard Building Services, shares insights on how to make the exterior of a home pop once again.
Diamonds are everybody's friend, so Tim Siefert of Timothy Grant Jewelry, along with his very talented manager Danielle Fewkes, share with us some of the newest trends in jewelry. The photos for this story were a collaboration between Editor Stephen Neilson and model/stylist Katelynn Paulsen.
Writer Nicolette Martin dishes some ideas on easy ways to up your home decor game, while Janet Sharlach ( Electrology & Skin Care by Janet) shares insights on skin care.
Clearly, style is not limited to what we wear, how we look or the homes we live in; it encompasses our every aspect. It is the thread that weaves together the tapestry of our lives. Importantly, everybody should feel free to express their own deeply personal style. And it evolves as we celebrate our age, quirks, passions, and desires. Style is a form of self-expression that communicates who we are, how we perceive the world and what we value.
If this issue inspires you just a little we hope it reminds you to forge new paths and explore again familiar ones. The best style is an authentic expression of who you really are. And that’s something no one on earth can do quite like you.
MICHAEL
September 2024
PUBLISHER
Michael Beightol | michael.beightol@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Stephen Neilson | stephen.neilson@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITER
Christina Sikorski
SALES SUPPORT MANAGER
Bill Taussig | btaussig@coyotemarsh.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Nicolette Martin, Jamie Trewartha, Janet Sharlach
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Michael Beightol, Stephen Neilson, Claire Slattery, Kasia Vetter
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Branden Cooper
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
By Rosemarie Madulara
My team and I are passionate about stepping outside our office to make a real difference in our community. One of the programs closest to our hearts is “Money Smart,” which was developed over a decade ago by the FDIC. This program offers financial education courses on managing money, buying a home, and starting a business.
We also provide services tailored for teens, tweens, and first-time savers, because we believe everyone deserves a solid financial foundation. Money Smart’s value shines at every stage of life. We’re forging partnerships with local schools, churches, nonprofits, chambers of commerce, and community groups to share this free resource widely. Our bankers take pride in building relationships and imparting financial wisdom. Our customers appreciate the flexibility of online and mobile banking1 for managing their family budgets, featuring a personal finance tool that tracks spending. Understanding where their money goes empowers families to make informed, confident decisions.
We believe it’s never too early to start learning about finances. Helping parents set up their children in our Junior Savers Club®2 is one of our greatest joys, as the lessons they learn now will benefit them for a lifetime. For business owners, our “Wintrust@Work” program reflects our commitment to providing comprehensive financial services to employees. We invite you to visit us and discover all the resources we offer. Together, we can build a stronger, financially savvy community.
1: The Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce held its first-ever pickleball tournament in July. 2: Fifty players participated on the Knox Park courts hosted by Ela Township. 3: Players in both women and men divisions played spiritedly while displaying lots of comraderie. 4: Under the leadership of Sherrise Trotz (standing 2nd from left), chamber volunteers organized the event. 5: On a hot and humid Saturday, frequent safety breaks kept players hydrated. 6: Players came from across the area (and from even as far away as Georgia). 7: The success of the inaugural event means more tournaments are likely in the future.
Want to be seen in the magazine?
Mais oui! Even though the Paris Olympics are a receding memory, local Francophiles can still get a French fix with the opening of Après Pastry & Bakery in downtown Lake Zurich. Owner and baker par excellence, Jennifer Duke, is whipping up in her oo-la-la kitchen lots of tasty treats four days a week (closed Sunday— Tuesday). Patrons swoon over Pots de Crème, Chouquette Puffs, Butter or Chocolat Croissants, Dacquoise Cakes, Canelé and more.
Photography: Michael Beightol
Property owner and local philanthropist John Sfire (center in green shirt) regaled an audience of local business owners with stories about his building at Rand Road and Route 22, now in its third incarnation as a branch for Ohiobased Fifth Third Bank. Sfire praised the gathered bank executives for the recent remodeling of the airy and bright facility during a special ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce.
Photography: Michael Beightol
A fitness revolution is occuring at Smart Fit Method in Kildeer. Using AI and exercise robotics, members are achieving higher efficiency from their workouts in less time than at conventional gyms. Through a series of recommended 3-time a week visits, and in typically just 20+ minutes per workout, members are feeling stronger without wearing down bones and body. Stop in at 20771 N. Rand Road, suite B4B, for a free consult and workout.
“Renee
ARTICLE BY JAMIE TREWARTHA | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
A More Stylish Closet Can Be Yours With Just a Little Pre-Planning.
If you’ve ever dreamt about having an organized closet where everything has a designated place, fulfilling that dream may be easier than you thought. Now might be just the perfect time to consider building a perfectly organized closet — one that both reflects your sense of style and functions in a way that getting dressed is a little easier (and maybe even a little more joyous).
Is your closet going to be a reach-in or walk-in? The vertical space in a reach-in closet will utilize every available inch. Walk-in closets can be customized to include room for dressing or to incorporate an island with drawers.
Building a dream closet shouldn’t break the bank. We have a wide selection of products and designs that suit any space. Plus, our financing plans let you know upfront about the total cost. That means you don’t have to pay for everything at once.
Think about your biggest pain points and what would make your life easier.
What items do you need to get organized? Do you have a large shoe or purse collection? Do you need more hanging space or more shelves and drawers to store sweaters? Think about your biggest pain points and what would make your life easier. Nobody likes to spend 20 minutes looking for that shirt. What’s great about working with customers is that everyone’s needs are different and a custom solution will address the biggest pain points while improving the look of the space.
The materials you choose will impact the overall look of the closet. There are lots of colors to complement any décor, and upgrades, such as crown molding and decorative door fronts. Our designers are experts at helping clients find a color and style to suit any personality.
For lots of clients, the most fun is picking accessories, including stylish and functional drawer pulls and handles. Maybe you’ll want chrome wire baskets on slides instead of traditional drawers. We have accessories, such as a full-length mirror or ironing board, that stay hidden until you need it. And be sure to ask our designer to demonstrate the valet rod: once you see it, you’ll have to have one.
ARTICLE BY MICHAEL BEIGHTOL PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHEN NEILSON
A STYLISH TOUCH OF CLASS FOR ANY OCCASION.
All that glitters is not necessarily just gold. Sometimes it’s also diamonds and blue topaz.
When we hatched this month’s featured Style story we approached Tim Siefert, owner of Timothy Grant Jewelry in Lake Zurich and Schaumburg. He thought the concept had merit and asked his manager, Danielle Fewkes, to pitch in.
Danielle, an up-and-coming jewelry professional, selected a stunning collection of items — rings, necklaces, earrings and bracelets — in both white and yellow gold, blue topaz and lots (LOTS!) of diamonds.
Loaded down with precious jewelry (and more than a touch nervous after toting up the full retail value of the precious goods), Editor and Principal Photographer Stephen Neilson set forth to collaborate with Katelynn Paulsen, stylist at Beauty With Katelynn (at Phenix in Deer Park) and The Gent’s Place, who graciously agreed to model the jewelry.
Slyly sidestepping a conventional studio shoot, Katelynn and Stephen roamed around SW Lake County a bit. After all, a stylish woman knows that the right piece of jewelry is both an everyday and a special occasion accessory.
Whether a “watchful” brunch with a friend or a dressy dinner date “by a lake”, the jewelry from Timothy Grant brought a touch of class (and some serious razzle-dazzle), proving to be the perfect complement for Katelynn’s stylish looks.
About Timothy Grant Jewelry: Tim Siefert is an award-winning jeweler and an expert with gold and platinum who specializes in the design and craftsmanship of oneof-a-kind pieces. Visit Timothy Grant at 155 N. Rand Road (Lake Zurich) or 10 S. Roselle Road (Schaumburg).
Visit TimothyGrantJewelry.com
An Elegant, Timeless Way to Side Your Home to Last.
ARTICLE BY MICHAEL BEIGHTOL
Somewhere nearby a woman is wondering what can be done about the look of her home. Maybe she and her spouse are empty nesters and downsizing sounds attractive. Or maybe her family likes where they are but wants a refreshed-looking house with minimal maintenance required.
It's no wonder that homes with James Hardie siding are popping up all over Chicagoland, according to Glenn Hofstra, owner of Vanguard Building Solutions.
In SW Lake County there is a never-ending variety of home styles. One thing that’s typical: the homes are entirely, mostly or partially covered with exterior siding. Homes that fall into the 25-year-old-plus category are very common in any neighborhood. These homes require a fair amount of care, especially with sun-faded wooden planks that have seen better days.
Hofstra says his customers appreciate the style, colors and finishes available from James Hardie. Durability is also a key consideration; because James Hardie siding is made from fiber cement, it is not only resistant to cracking and warping but also protects against termites and rot.
Maintenance is another crucial factor. Everybody is always busy, so homeowners enjoy the siding’s low-maintenance nature. Because the color was baked in during the manufacturing process, ensuring it wouldn’t chip or peel, a James Hardie home only needs an occasional cleaning.
Speaking of color, there is an expansive palette available, ensuring that every homeowner can find a color to suit their style. Improved curb appeal boosts a home’s market value — a desirable feature that many buyers appreciate, potentially leading to a higher resale value.
Fiber cement siding is non-combustible, therefore providing a higher level of protection against fire compared to other materials like wood or vinyl. This can be an important consideration for homeowners looking to enhance the safety of their home.
In a period of escalating energy costs James Hardie siding contributes to better insulation, potentially lowering heating and cooling costs, adding another layer of value to an investment.
Overall, Hofstra says James Hardie siding combines aesthetic appeal with exceptional performance and minimal upkeep, making it a smart choice for homeowners seeking both beauty and durability in their home’s exterior.
To see if James Hardie siding is suitable for your home visit VanguardBuildingServices.com or call Glenn Hofstra at 847.334.0790.
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ARTICLE BY JANET SHARLACH
BY STEPHEN NEILSON
With more than 30 years of experience, the core of my practice – Electrology and SkinCare by Janet – is to help you gain back time and confidence by being free of unwanted hair, putting your best face forward and providing education about treatment. Here are some questions and answers I provide for anyone wanting to remove unwanted hair.
What is electrolysis hair removal? Electrolysis is the only method approved by the FDA for permanent hair removal, treating each hair with energy passed through a wire probe to disable its growth. For most people, when performed properly, it is not painful. Every person is different, however, with unique tolerances. The length of each treatment session varies according to the individual, the number of and type of hairs and client’s comfort level. We go over all of this during a complimentary consultation.
What areas do you treat typically? Almost any area on the body can be treated, as well as all hair colors and skin types. Chin, neck and lip are common for women; neck, back and ears for men. Is electrolysis more effective than other hair removal methods? Electrolysis, when done correctly, is permanent. Treatment is different for each person, and to be honest, each person is different. Most often it feels like a warm pinch but the best way to know is to come in for a consultation and a mini treatment, if appropriate. During the consultation, we will look at many factors to make certain that we have addressed the reason for the hair growth and if anything needs to be done to prevent new growth. Success depends on a few factors. Is your electrologist treating the hair properly? Are you following a treatment plan? Are you pulling out any hairs that surface in between
sessions? And, if there is a medical reason for the continued hair growth (versus a one-time event), are you getting that addressed? With all these issues covered, there really is no reason for every client to not achieve success.
What should I look for in an electrologist? Their space should be clean; they should be well educated in the field, and should take the time to help you understand how treatment works. You also want to be comfortable with the electrologist as it will take a series of treatments. Building rapport with honest dialogue is important.
How long after electrolysis can I shower? You can shower as soon as you like after treatment. Just be gentle. After each treatment we will go over any aftercare that applies to you.
What kind of skin care do you provide? I mostly work with rejuvenating treatments, including microcurrent, FCM, micro-dermabrasion, and light therapy. In addition to basic facials, these treatments help increase the ATP (adenosine triphosphate ) available for cell rejuvenation, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, lifting, and improving skin tone. (And they feel great too!)
My clients leave happy that they have gained back hours from worry about imperfections and constant hair removal. They are relaxed, rejuvenated and love coming in. One client even says she “would rather come in to see me than go on vacation.” Even if you have tried treatment elsewhere, I am able to help you. Give me a call and let’s see what we can do for you.
About the Author: Learn more about Janet Sharlach’s practice by visiting ElectrologyandSkincare.com, and call 847.970.7546 to schedule a free consultation.
STYLE YOUR HOME IN TONES AND TEXTURES WITH DESIGN HELP FROM HOUZZ INTERIOR DESIGN EXPERTS
ARTICLE BY NICOLETTE MARTIN
Decorate your space with handmade textures such as the modern, maker revival of 1970s macramé and year-round tropical feel of wicker. MACRAMÉ Made through knotting instead of weaving, macramé can add a unique touch in many various ways. Houzz contributor Laura Gaskill suggests incorporating it as nursery decor, plant hangers, wall hangings and modern fiber arts. WICKER According to Houzz contributor Yanic Simard, “the best way to really embrace the luxury-cottage appeal of wicker and rattan is to combine different forms of the two in one space... Look for other unexpected places to add a natural twist to your home with a new material woven into your palette.”
Houzz contributor Katie Treggiden offers many ways to incorporate natural materials and natural-state timber into your home, including using wood to cover one wall in a home for a pleasing accent wall; featuring your firewood as a striking, stacked display; and mixing different types of wood and different finishes in the same space. “A simple way to incorporate the wood trend is to expose structural wooden beams already present in your home,” Katie says. “Instead of painting them or boxing them in, leave them raw or give them a coat of wax to enrich the tones.”
Do you feel like your all-white room is missing something? Houzz contributor Kelly Porter bets what’s missing is energy.
“The best way to add a spark to any space,” she says, “is with bright color.”
Kelly says green is one of the easiest colors to live with, looking organic even in its more vivid tones.
“When searching for the perfect bright green, think springtime—fresh green grass and newly sprouted leaves,” she says. “These greens have lively undertones that will look comfortable and warm in your white space.
Other colors Kelly recommends adding as accents are yellow, royal blue, orange, blue-purple, red-purple and sky blue.
SEPTEMBER 4TH
An Evening in Eastern Europe
275 Mohawk Trail, Lake Zurich | 6:00 PM
Chicago Cossacks is a Ukrainian and international folk music and dance group started in 1993 that entertains and teaches throughout Chicagoland. Lyric narration will be provided along with an overview of Ukrainian culture. Presented at the Ela Area Public Library (EAPL.org).
SEPTEMBER 8TH
Soul Harbor Ranch in Deer Park
20530 N. Rand Road, Deer Park | 10:30 AM
Soul Harbor Ranch is bringing its therapy animals to Deer Park Town Center. Enjoy an easy 20- to 30-minute walk around the shopping center followed by a hands-on visit for photos and cuddles with miniature horses and dogs. Meet across from Pottery Barn on the sidewalk, under the maple trees. Learn more at ShopDeerParkTownCenter.com.
SEPTEMBER 9TH
The Last Season at Comiskey
275 Mohawk Trail, Lake Zurich | 7:00 PM
White Sox fans won't want to miss it when Stadium Vagabond writer and photographer Ken Smoller shares stories from the final season at Comiskey Park. His presentation is illustrated through photographs, videos, and fan recollections. A must-do event for all Southside baseball fans. Presented at the Ela Area Public Library (EAPL.org).
SEPTEMBER 14TH
Rock the Block
Downtown Lake Zurich | 5:00 PM
The village will be jumping as folks dine, dance, and discover downtown Lake Zurich with three live bands and food, drinks, and fun. Presented by the Village of Lake Zurich.
SEPTEMBER 15TH
328 N. Main Street, Wauconda | 4:00 PM
Grab family and friends, bring your chair or blanket, pack a picnic (no alcohol, glass, smoking, or pets) or enjoy the concessions (Home Run Inn Pizza, hot dogs, funnel cake, ice cream, soda/water and more) and enjoy for free the best Grateful Dead-style jam band in Lake County as they rock historic Phil's Beach on Bangs Lake. Details at WaucondaParks.com.
SEPTEMBER 20TH - 22ND
Apple Fest
Downtown Long Grove
Come for apple pies, donuts and cider; stay for the entertainment and fun. This signature annual event is dog friendly. Presented by the Village of Long Grove (LongGrove.org).
SEPTEMBER 24TH - 29TH
18 W. Monroe Street, Chicago
This Tony Award winning Broadway show is all about the life and times of the Temptations. Follow their journey from the Motor City to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Enjoy favs that include “My Girl,” “Papa Was a Rolling Stone” and more. Evening and matinee performances at the CIBC Theater. Tickets are available at BroadwayInChicago.com
For the last 40 years my family and I have been residents of North Barrington. Next month I turn 70, and I still feel pretty young. I’ve been working for the last 40 years for Saint-Gobain Abrasives where I’ve been in the middle of a largely male dominated industry.
My husband, Al, and I have been married for 40 years. While I’m retiring this year, he loves his periodontal practice (and patients). We are charter members of the Club at Wynstone, and proud parents of our daughter Dina Marie.
This is also the year I was diagnosed with FSHD (facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy), a rare, slowly progressive genetic disease that affects the muscles of the face, shoulders, upper arms, and lower legs. These muscles weaken and shrink (atrophy). For the last 10 years I have seen doctors across Chicago, Minnesota, Utah, California and Colorado before finally receiving my diagnosis in January.
I now have a new reality, far different than the one I planned for retirement. Now I am dedicated to help raise awareness, funds, and support for this rare disease that has really hit home for me.
On Saturday September 28 at Citizens’ Park in Barrington the annual FSHD Walk & Roll will be held. This is the yearly fundraiser for the Chicago chapter of the FSHD Society. The community is invited to join my team, “Joanne’s Warriors,” to raise much needed funding for research, cures and community support.
Learn more, donate and register at FSHDSociety.org (select Chicago Chapter).
ARTICLE BY JOANNE DALESSANDRO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BEIGHTOL