Issuu

FEBRUARY 2015

Making Every Moment Count

Love That Dress! We found gorgeous gowns for your big day

Romantic dining destinations in McHenry County

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INSIDE Weddings 8 Gorgeous Gowns — Ruffles and beads and full lace sheaths round out a bevy of beautiful choices available right out your front door. 12 Stepping out — Not every wedding ceremony is held in a church. We highlight some options as unique as the couples themselves. 14 Taking the cake — Current cakes are all about flavors, with delectable fillings and combinations you’re sure to love! 16 #Hitched — With so many online tools available, which are good to go, and which are a big “no”? 20 A Place to Stay — Weddings are about family and friends, so why put yours up at a boring hotel? There are quaint and creative places to stay, in and around the county.

Family In Focus 22 Saying “I do” as a family — Experts discuss ways to bring children into the wedding plans.

Join columnist Dave Faccone on his search for the perfectly boozy brunch drink.

24 Just a stage? Family columnist Michelle Stien shares her worries about her son’s quirks and habits.

Fashion & Beauty 26 Wedding wonderful — All you need to know to look your most beautiful on your big day, from beauty expert Lisa Ryan.

Health & Wellness 29 Lipo-Light — Find out more about this new light-centered body shaping technology. 30 Healthy resolution — Get tips for a healthy 2015 from the folks at Premier Wellness. 32 Making Every Moment Count — At JourneyCare, compassionate professionals guide you through difficult times.

Home & Lifestyle 36 Setting up housekeeping — New appliances boast great style and put the “fun” in functionality.

Business & Civic

40 Tax time — find out what to know and what to look for when choosing a tax prep professional. 44 Jewels rule! Our local jewelry experts from Steffans in McHenry offer some favorite styles to signify your love.

Dining & Entertaining 45 Editor’s Choice — Four romantic spots for the perfect date night dinner. 47 Creative cocktailing — Join columnist Dave Faccone on his search for the perfectly boozy brunch drink.

Out & About 48 Wedding getaway — Whether you’re looking at a heavenly honeymoon or a destination wedding, travel expert Darrellynn Hanes has some great suggestions. 50 Calendar of Events — Check out a variety of local events, courtesy of our own Planit NorthWest website!

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MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2015 | 5

A wedding is an amazing thing to plan.

Need a getaway? We highlight four romantic dining destinations, perfect to escape for a quiet meal with your special someone.

As one of the most important days in a couple’s lifetime, it can fill you with hope, happiness, anxiety, excitement and even stress.

Looking for a truly unique spot for the ceremony? We’ve got great local options around the area, setting the stage for a truly memorable event

For a typical wedding day, there are many choices to be made. Who will be the attendants? Where will the ceremony be held? What food and drink will we serve? What about flowers, music, family, the DRESS????

Wherever you look to plan your big day, we’re glad you started with us, and right here at home, in McHenry County.

It can all get overwhelming, so we are here to lend a hand. We have great places to host the big event, options for cakes, ideas for children, and options for out-of-town guests. And of course, gorgeous gowns to take center stage. And its all available locally, so you never need to travel far to get all you need for a wonderful wedding day.

Thanks for reading.

Published by Shaw Media 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 Phone: 815-459-4040 Fax: 815-477-4960 www.McHenryCountyMagazine.com Publisher Kate Weber 815-526-4400 kweber@shawmedia.com

Sherri Dauskurdas Editor

Editor Sherri Dauskurdas 630-427-6209 sdauskurdas@shawmedia.com

on the

COVER WEDDINGS! Out of the

ordinary venues pair beautifully out-of-this-world wedding gowns, like this one from Kathryn’s Bridal, McHenry. Discover more ... Starting on page 8

Photos by RON McKINNEY

Salon services by ONE BRIDAL COMPANY.

6 | FEBRUARY 2015 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

Designer Allison McCaleb 815-526-4485 amccaleb@shawmedia.com Correspondents Michelle Stien, Yvonne Benson, Stephanie Kohl, Melissa Riske, Elizabeth Harmon, Wendy Foster Photographers Ron McKinney, Nancy Merkling President / Shaw Media John Rung jrung@shawmedia.com McHenry County Magazine is available by subscription for $24 a year. If you would like each month’s edition mailed to your home, send payment information and address to McHenry County Magazine, 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 or via email at subscriptions@shawmedia.com.

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Heidi Pleune, Peggy Critchﬁeld, Dr. Rivard, Ginger Gebka

AFTER 3 DECADES OF INSUFFICIENT VEINTREATMENT, A FAMILY FINALLY FINDS A SOLUTION FOR THEM ALL AT ILLINOIS VEIN SPECIALISTSTS.

hile there are many risk factors to developing varicose veins, none are more prevalent than your family genetics. As Dr. Rivard states, “the practice of phlebology offers many opportunities to learn more about vein disease. However, if one thing is true vein disease is hereditary and nothing provides a better example than seeing a family like Heidi, Ginger, and Peggy.” Three sisters, who after literally spending decades searching for the right relief for their varicose veins and almost losing hope, eventually found their way to Illinois Vein Specialists. Peggy, Ginger, and Heidi may all look different and have different occupations, but each share a similar story about their varicose veins. As children they remember their mother having varicose veins. During that time the only solution was vein stripping. Each noted that their mother always took good care of her legs, but after her vein surgery she still needed to wear compression stockings to hide her legs even on hot days under her skirts and often suffered from leg pain. Peggy went to different doctors for many years before ﬁnding Dr. Rivard. One doctor was a vascular surgeon who offered vein stripping as a solution, but Peggy was not entirely comfortable with this procedure remembering her mother and the pain and suffering that she went through. To Peggy, vein stripping seemed “too drastic” so she decided to keep looking for a better solution. Fortunately, Peggy was referred to Dr. Rivard and IVS by a friend. She was pleased with Dr. Rivard’s success rates, and decided that if her friend could do it so could she. Peggy scheduled a consultation that day. Ginger, much like Peggy, also noticed that she had varicose veins and sought sclerotherapy injections in her mid 30’s and 40’s, but ﬁnally decided her legs weren’t getting better and put off further treatment. A decade later she was recommended to Dr. Rivard by her sister Peggy. She came all the way from Bartlett, IL to get help. Heidi had noticeable spider veins but did not see any bulging veins like her sisters’. She too had sclerotherapy injections for m cmany h e n years, r y c o uwhich n t y mdid a gnot a z iseem n e . c to o malleviate the pain,

and eventually decided in 2000 to stop. When she heard that her sisters were getting their legs done again, she trusted their decision and came all the way from Itasca, IL to get the same quality care. VEIN DISEASE IS HEREDITARY.

Heredity is the most common factor for determining varicose veins. The truth is that if one parent has varicose veins there is about a 40% chance that you will too, and if both parents have varicose veins, then you are almost guaranteed to have them. Dr. Rivard advocates, “this is why it is so important to understand that varicose veins are hereditary, not just an elderly disease as many believe. By learning this earlier you can get help without suffering needlessly for decades.” Unfortunately, many misunderstand that varicose veins are something that come with old age, but in actuality if you have the misfortune of getting them from your parents you may start noticing the disease as early as 10-12 years old. In fact, Dr. Rivard has seen patients as young as 17 years old with advanced vein disease. Many people notice their varicose veins later in life, because their veins have deteriorated to the point where they begin to bulge and cause greater pain, discomfort, swelling, and cramping, not to mention the various cosmetic issues. However, by being proactive and treating your veins the right way you can avoid a lifetime of pain and beneﬁt cosmetically as well. Dr. Rivard notes, “the best advice is to be guided by how you feel, the symptoms, not by your age.” TREATING YOUR VARICOSE VEINS THE RIGHT WAY.

In the last decade, technology has made signiﬁcant advancements in vein care. In the past, the only solution was “vein stripping.” However, the success rate for this procedure still remains less than 50%, and often causes more damage to the veins, increasing the recurrence of varicose veins later on. Unlike the treatment options available today, vein stripping is very invasive, painful, and requires lots of down time. Today, treating your varicose veins at IVS using methods like Endovenous LaserTherapy (EVLT), takes less

than an hour, requires no downtime, and is essentially 100% effective with no recurrence. In addition to EVLT, sclerotherapy is another great way to treat your veins, if done correctly. Although veins treated using sclerotherapy disappear, it will not prevent your body from forming new spider veins if you have underlying varicosities. This is why even though all three sisters received cosmetic sclerotherapy for many years it never seemed to work. As Ginger recalls, “it was obvious that [sclerotherapy] was not a permanent solution…and it got to the point where wearing short skirts was just something that I never even considered because of my veins… I would always wear slacks.” Peggy, expressed the same sentiment mentioning that she likes to golf, and the sclerotherapy helped the appearance of her spider veins, but she, “…didn’t want to show [her] ropey legs when golﬁng.” As Dr. Rivard states, “In order to properly treat your varicose veins, you must treat the source of the problem. Frequently, we see patients who have been treated by vein doctors using only cosmetic sclerotherapy, but never address the underlying issues of vein disease. Using sclerotherapy, however, is great after performing EVLT to treat the remaining branch veins.” WHAT LIFE IS LIKE AFTER SEEING DR. RIVARD.

While it has been a few years since their last procedure at IVS, none can forget the significant impact in getting their veins treated correctly by Dr. Rivard. Heidi thinking back said, “I can remember going shopping for a few hours and coming home, and all I could think about were my legs and now I don’t even give my legs a second thought.” Peggy recalled a story of her cooking easter dinner the year prior to treatment, “I just remember standing all day long cooking with tears in my eyes because my legs felt like concrete…I knew what the problem was, and that was the impetus for finding a better solution for my legs… and now…” Heidi laughing, cut in to say, “we went to a wedding last year and [Peggy] danced all night! We all feel great.” Illinois Vein Specialists opened in 2009 and has a staff of a dozen—Board Certified physician, medical technicians, RNs, Certified ultrasound specialists and administrative personnel. IVS has successfully treated over 4,000 patients. “One of the things I like best about specializing in vein disease is the opportunity to restore hope and confidence in my patients like Peggy, Heidi, and Ginger; being able to help them is the reason I get up in the morning.” To find out more information on vein disease and how Illinois Vein Specialists, A Center of Excellence in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Vein Disease™, might be able to help you: call for an appointment at 847-277-9100, stop by our offices at 22285 Pepper Rd, (suite 105), Lake Barrington and look at our “brag book” or visit us online at www. IllinoisVeinSpecialists.com. A Center of Excellence

in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Vein Disease™

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Photos by Ron McKinney

From gorgeous gowns to fabulous flowers, delicious cakes and unique venue, our communities have all that you need to make your special day truly amazing!

8 | FEBRUARY 2015 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

WEDDINGS

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This full-length beaded lace gown available at Kathryn’s Bridal, McHenry.

A neckline needs just the right touch, like this delicate pearl drop pendant.

Your hands will be getting a lot of attention, so accentuate that regal ring with a beautiful bracelet. Jewelry available at Steffan’s Jewelers, McHenry.

Candles add ambience while keeping conversation going across the table. Tablescape by Wild Orchid, Maple Park

mchenrycountymagazine.com

WEDDINGS

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2015 | 9

Your guests will be in awe from every angle in this perfectly pretty ivory lace gown, available at Kathryn’s Bridal, McHenry.

For a lighter look on smaller hands, try a slimmer delicate bridal set, paired with a coordinating bangle bracelet, available at Steffan’s Jewelers, McHenry.

Floral centerpiece by Wild Orchid, Maple Park.

10 | FEBRUARY 2015 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

WEDDINGS

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MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2015 | 11

Say ‘I Do’ Somewhere New

Ceremony locations as unique as the bride and groom By Stephanie Kohl

etting married doesn’t necessarily mean contacting the church you grew up in, or the church in town anymore. These days, a couple can have a wedding ceremony anywhere and it can be as unique as the couple hosting it.

Carrie Pedregosa, owner and wedding planner of Orchid Weddings and Events, has been planning events for years, starting with her own wedding 10 years ago. Originally from McHenry, she does much of her wedding and event planning in McHenry County. “I actually haven’t seen any (ceremonies) in the church lately,” she said. “It’s becoming more and more popular to find (less traditional) places.” Pedregosa said the big trend she has seen lately is people looking for barn weddings or rustic-themed weddings. She has also seen a big trend in hosting ceremonies and receptions at breweries and vineyards. “I think part of that is coming from the groom’s side,” she said. Within McHenry County, Pedregosa said the historic Woodstock Square, Woodstock Opera House and Raue Center for the Arts in Crystal Lake all have been popular destinations for those seeking more unique wedding ceremonies. “I think people try to tap into what interests them,” she said. “Some people are just not as religious as they used to be or no longer feel they have to (get married in a church).” It helps, Pedregosa said, that it has become more common for venues to offer space for both a ceremony and reception. She said many brides and grooms find it appealing to host both in the same location because it saves time and is convenient for guests. “It’s definitely something that’s becoming more and more popular and couples should do what makes them happy,” Pedregosa said. It is important to keep in mind though, when a wedding isn’t held in a church, which has an aisle, pews for people to sit in, a sound system, etc., an alternative location might not have these things. Pedregosa said once a couple has selected a location for their ceremony, it is important they take into

12 | FEBRUARY 2015 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

WEDDINGS

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account things like seating, décor, sound, and, in the event of an outdoor location, the weather. Many of these more unique venues are also on the small side, she said, so they may have a limited capacity.

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“It’s just another thing to account for, in addition to planning for your reception,” she said. “You also need to be aware of the rules and bylaws of the (location) you choose.” Because wanting a unique location and actually knowing how to find one are two totally different things, Pedregosa recommends working with a wedding planner. She offers a free one hour consultation to anyone interested during which she goes through a questionnaire to get a feel for the couple’s tastes and desires.

The factory has a large space known as the Ferris Room, which features exposed brick and open beams. “It’s very rustic, but also industrial,” said Teresa Baber, events coordinator for the Starline Factory. “What I’ve found is you can do anything with that space and it works. We try not to have a lot of restrictions.” Starline Factory also has a smaller gallery space that accommodates smaller events, as well as a small chapel space ideal for a ceremony, featuring church pews and an organ. Baber acknowledged that Starline isn’t for everyone, as hosting an event there requires more planning than for a typical church and banquet hall wedding, but has found there are plenty of people looking for a space as unique as theirs. “They love that uniqueness and they love that they can put their own personality in it,” Baber said. “… We like to let them do their own thing because then it’s their own personal event.”

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Because the space is very much a blank canvas, Baber said they see lots of theme weddings. Recently, they hosted a steampunk-themed wedding, with guests even arriving in costume.

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Now that the word has gotten out about their venue, Baber said they are booking up fast. As a matter of fact, they are already well into booking for 2016.

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2015 | 13

Taking The Cake Couples choose creative alternatives to traditional tiers

icing rosettes, drapery, and columns. There is fondant, colors, and creative flavors. What’s more, couples are branching out to other desserts, beyond the layered cake of tradition.

In 2013, Chef Stephanie Izard of the Girl & the Goat restaurant in Chicago showed gumption by offering her guests n elegant three-tiered cake a deceitfully simple looking cake that hid takes only second place to layers of strawberry Nesquik cake, bacon the bride and groom. The guests’ eye the columns and buttercream and chocolate covered Cheezicing drapery and speculate Its. That might be too audacious for the about the flavors underneath. Is it vanilla or average couple getting married this year chocolate? Then the cake cutting ceremony so some local bakeries have shared their expertise. begins and everyone anticipates if either the bride or groom will be silly and try to Anna Majewski of Sugar Hills Bakery smash the cake in the other’s face. in Algonquin, who specializes in upscale wedding cake flavors and a wide range of Well, that’s how it was for many weddings miniature pastries, says that although cakes as recently as 10 years ago; however, now the cakes have been given a makeover. They used to only be a limited number of flavors, now there are more options for weddings. are decorated with more than just white By Yvonne Benson

14 | FEBRUARY 2015 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

WEDDINGS

“Depending on the season I think different flavors work better.” For spring she suggested vanilla and chocolate with raspberry filling. For winter she offered a chocolate cake with amaretto and raspberry or red velvet with cream cheese. Vanilla chocolate cake with caramel and chocolate filling or perhaps carrot cake with cream cheese both work well for fall. Lastly, she said summer lends itself to vanilla cake with fresh strawberries. “Fall and winter cakes tend to have heavier, bolder flavors. Spring and summer have lighter flavors like fresh fruits,” she continued, “but that’s not a rule. It depends on customers’ personal preferences.” Carol Rice of Riverside Bake Shop in McHenry is as well-known for chocolate doughnuts as they are for their wedding cakes, all made in-house the same day. A popular option, she says, is to do mchenrycountymagazine.com

different tiers in different flavors. She explained that it often is hard to find something that mirrors the taste preferences of the bride and groom as well as satisfies the whims of many guests. Looking for an alternative to the traditional tiered cake? Rice recommended pastries. “Mini cream puffs, napoleons, brownies and mini éclairs,” she says. “There will usually be a side table with little desserts.” She said that her bakery decorates them with rosettes and other flourishes that match the theme of the wedding. “Some of our weddings in the past do cupcakes. They do the red velvet, carrot, and chocolate or yellow. They’ll have a small cake and then have many cupcakes surrounding it on the same stand.” “I see a lot of people going with a smaller wedding cake and replacing it with a sweet table,” Majewski agreed. “Miniature pastries give the guests an option to try more than just one thing. ” What’s the most creative wedding dessert Rice has seen? “We’ve had brides that want an individual seven-inch cake on each table and they’ve changed those cakes from white and yellow and chocolate and red velvet and carrot. That way the people on the table can cut their own cake,” she says. Knowing the theme of a wedding is important, Majewski advised, “Wait until you figure out what you want to style your reception, where will you decide to have it, before you start looking for wedding cake.”

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d e h c t i #H Setting the stage in the Internet age

Creatively Yours, says while the Internet provides a great resource, it is important to have a professional or coordinator to help you figure everything out throughout your wedding.

When it comes time to planning a wedding, the first place people generally turn is the Internet.

For example, Hacker says Pinterest is an excellent resource for brides to find ideas for their weddings, but just as people have had “Pinterest Fails” with recipes and other do-ityourself hacks, the same applies to wedding ideas.

Area wedding planners and event coordinators agree wedding websites such as The Knot and Wedding Wire are great resources for brides, but there are lots more out there, too.

“Things aren’t always as perfect as you see it in the pictures,” Hacker says. However, she says it is good to create a board on Pinterest with wedding ideas and share it with your coordinator.

By Stephanie Kohl

According to statistics from The Knot, nine out of 10 couples use some sort of wedding planning app; one out of five use a checklist to keep track; one out of six use a budget app to keep track; and 55 percent of brides use hashtags to keep track of online activity related to their wedding. Tami Hacker, owner and certified wedding and event coordinator with McHenry-based 16 | FEBRUARY 2015 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

When it comes to helpful websites, Hacker acknowledged The Knot is pretty much the number one source that every bride uses. In addition to offering information on all kinds of wedding vendors, it also provides items great for budgeting and checklists to help brides as they go along. It also includes reviews of included vendors. “Another one is Wedding Spot,” Hacker says. WEDDINGS

“It’s a really neat tool to find venues.” The site allows brides to search by location, budget and guest count to help narrow down to the most appropriate venues. Hacker says Facebook is another great resource to use. In addition to using Facebook to find vendors, the site also generally offers plenty of pictures of a vendor’s work, as well as reviews. As wedding planning has evolved with the Internet, Hacker says many vendors now allow clients to make payments via their website and some DJs even have an online platform for brides and grooms to upload their music requests. At Creatively Yours, Hacker utilizes Planning Pod, an online event managing software, that allows her to keep all of the information for a wedding in one online file, to which she and her clients have access. Within Planning Pod, she can update a budget or timeline, add notes from a vendor and more. “I can send a link and attach the vendors as well as the client, so they can see everything we do as we go along,” Hacker says. mchenrycountymagazine.com

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Creating your own wedding website is a great option for a bride and groom to provide guests with all the information they’ll need that might not fit on the invitation, Hacker says.

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“It’s a great way to keep the guests connected throughout the planning process.” Hacker also has seen brides and grooms utilize the Internet during their wedding. For example, the bride and groom can assign someone to Skype their wedding, or use other Internet streaming programs, to connect people who couldn’t physically attend the wedding, with the event.

Use of hashtags also has gained popularity, she says. When brides and grooms want to use this, they often include the hashtag on the invites or place cards, so guests can tag updates and photos they post via social media and the bride and groom can find it later. mchenrycountymagazine.com

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“It’s a nice way to get those families and relatives that can’t make it connected,” Hacker says.

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MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2015 | 17

And Off We Go! ... Planning a wedding can be a big job, and leaves many couples feeling more like contractors overseeing a build, than a bride and groom anticipating a beautiful day. Our own Kelsey Rakers is the marketing manager for Suburban Life Media, a division of Shaw Media. An events and promotions planner, she and her fiancé Jeff are planning an early autumn wedding and offered to share her experiences with our readers. If weddings are on your mind, you’ve likely read those articles proclaiming that the average couple in the United States spends around $30,000 on a wedding. And like me, you might have looked at that number and thought it was totally absurd. Before getting engaged, I always told myself that I would never be that person spending $30,000. I’m creative! I plan events for a living. I’m a pretty good DIY-er. I should easily be able to figure out how to plan an amazing wedding on a limited budget, right? But once I started adding up all the expenses for my own dream wedding, I found that ours could easily top that average. Most of the venues, even the non-traditional ones, would cost at least $100 per person. Several florists I talked to required a minimum order of at least $4,000 for a wedding, which was almost half of

18 | FEBRUARY 2015 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

my budget for the entire event. I don’t resent any business making money from weddings and I don’t begrudge any bride who has the means to spend that kind of money. But that bride just isn’t me.

would be to elope. I envisioned a beautiful ceremony with just the two of us somewhere in the Redwood forests of the Pacific Northwest. Cutting our guest list to zero was the only way I would be able to have Yet, I’m a perfectionist and I don’t like to compromise, my dream dress, flowers, and photographer, but my fiancé wasn’t into the idea and making this lifetime so making my budget work while still having a commitment surrounded by the love of our friends beautiful wedding — one that lives up to my and family was just more important than having standards — has been especially challenging. A wedding is an emotional event. There is a lot pressure those things. Elopement was a no-go. to provide a top-notch experience for your guests So, how have I been dealing with it? Lots of who are spending a lot of time and money to travel to prioritizing. celebrate with you. There also is a lot of self-imposed I can’t afford to have both my dream cake and my pressure to have a “Pinterest-perfect” event that will dream flowers, so we’re getting cakes from Whole result in gorgeous photos you can splash all over Foods (The cakes are totally delicious and gorgeous social media. I feared I would end up stressing myself to boot) and splurging a little to hire an amazingly out and not enjoying my wedding day at all. artistic local florist. Initially, I thought that the answer to my dilemma WEDDINGS

We also are limiting our guest list to 75. We each will mchenrycountymagazine.com

have only one attendant, and incorporate other close friends and family into the ceremony by asking them to be readers and ushers.

we would have paid for a dinner while still providing our guests a lavish meal. People also tend to drink a lot less at a brunch, so we’re keeping our bar tab in check as well.

One of the more heartbreaking discoveries: We wouldn’t be able to hire the amazing photographer I One shock to our wallet were all the sneaky little had my heart set on before we expenses — things like gifts even were engaged. Instead, for attendants and parents, With enough I asked around and found a marriage license, postage super-talented, up-and-coming for invitations and R.S.V.P. creativity and photographer for half of the cards, and alterations for my compromise, we price. I am very excited about gown — that seem pretty working with her. will have a beautiful insignificant when you look at them individually, but when you We found out that our favorite day that will lay them all out, add up to big local French bistro does a prix celebrate our future bucks. fixe champagne jazz brunch

anyone to do for us, but they have been wonderful gifts from the heart, that also happen to be helping us keep our costs down. I’ve also asked a couple of my super-organized friends to help me with coordinating everything on the day of our wedding so I don’t need to hire a wedding planner or stress out about handling everything myself. We’re still eight months out from the big day, so I’m sure there are many bumps in the road to come, but I’m confident that with enough creativity and compromise, we will have a beautiful day that will celebrate our future together without destroying our future finances.

6 Kelsey Rakers and her fiancé, Jeff Wenzel.

on Sundays and would be To help me track it all, I found a together without willing to let us buy out the great wedding budget template destroying our restaurant for our event. We on Google Drive that is allowing not only saved on décor and me to account for all our costs, future finances. rentals, (the restaurant already so hopefully we don’t have any looks great) but we also saved surprises when everything is on not having to hire a DJ or said and done. band, since the restaurant already hires jazz artists If those rising costs were a bad shock, they were to perform every Sunday! My fiancé and I aren’t big balanced by the wonderful surprise of generosity dancers, so just having live jazz as a backdrop to the from friends and family. My fiancé’s cousin has meal is actually a great option for us. (Oh, and I totally offered up her calligraphy skills to address our love breakfast food, so I’m more than a little excited invitations, and his grandmother has offered to buy that I get to eat it at my wedding.) my wedding dress as her gift to us. My dad offered By having our wedding on a Sunday morning, we’re cutting our costs for the reception in half from what

to give us a few nights’ stay at a resort for our honeymoon. These are certainly not things I expected

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MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2015 | 19

A Place To Stay For your out-of-town guests, options abound

bathrooms, a full kitchen wrap-around front porch and back deck. Office Manager Catherine Forrest said wedding parties will frequently book all three houses. “The By Elizabeth Harmon bridal party will stay in the Manor Home, and the osting a wedding can be an exciting, bride and groom’s families will stay in the other busy and even stressful time. Add to the two. On the morning of the wedding, the bride mix a bevy of out of town guests, family and bridesmaids get ready at the Manor House, and bridal party can send a happy couple while the guys go to the house where his family is right over the edge. staying,” said Forrest. Bridal couples who want their out-of-town guests Because the houses are in high demand during peak to enjoy comfortable unique accommodations have wedding season, and are often booked by groups plenty of options in McHenry County. These bed holding events at the Concorde Centre, Forrest and breakfasts inns and private guesthouses offer suggests reserving as early as possible. For more architectural charm and a cozy home-away-frominformation, visit www.concorde-centre.com or call home atmosphere you won’t find in a chain hotel. 815.337.3500. Here are a few options, to get you started: The Victorian Rose Garden Bed and Breakfast, 314 Washington Street, Algonquin, — Owner The Concorde Center, 3708 Alden Road, and Innkeeper Sherry Brewer raised her family in the Woodstock — Three farms were combined to create this unique rural banquet and meeting center 1886 Folk Victorian home she’s owned since 1974, but when her youngest child moved out, she fulfilled located on 900 acres outside Woodstock. Open a long time dream of turning the home into a bed since 1998, and a popular venue for weddings, the and breakfast inn. This year will mark her twentieth Concorde Centre also offers three guesthouses year in business. available for guests of weddings held both onsite, and offsite. Located in downtown Algonquin the home was built as a wedding gift from a father to his son and The Manor Home is a white bungalow located closest to the Concorde Centre’s banquet hall. With daughter-in-law. It has been plaqued as a historical four bedrooms and four bathrooms, it has a capacity home by the City of Algonquin and McHenry County and still has original fixtures and woodwork. With a of 10 guests. In addition, there is a pool house, tennis court, full kitchen, and the house’s lower level capacity of ten guests, the inn has four bedrooms. rec room has a pool table, air hockey, ping-pong and “We’ve often had wedding groups book where the bride and her attendants stay the night before the shuffleboard. wedding, get ready here, and take pictures. Then The Country Home has a capacity of six guests. A her parents and extended family stay the night of modern ranch-style house, it has three bedrooms, the wedding,” Brewer said. two full baths, full kitchen and a back deck, which Guests are served morning breakfast at the inn, overlooks a pond. The Hilltop is a picturesque and if the bridal couple is staying offsite, they’re two-story farmhouse with four bedrooms and four

20 | FEBRUARY 2015 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

WEDDINGS

welcome too. “The nice thing about staying in a bed and breakfast instead of a hotel is that it’s more intimate. There’s no one else around so families can spend time together and visit. When I get calls from people planning weddings, that’s what I suggest so they can have privacy,” she said. Reservation availability varies and Brewer suggests checking online. Online booking is available too, though Brewer said, “For whole house rental, it’s best to do it over the phone.” For more information visit www.victorianrosegarden.com or call 847.854.9667 Private Home on Wonder Lake — Located less than 30 minutes from Lake Geneva, Crystal Lake, Woodstock and McHenry, this spacious 4-story 4,000 square foot home on the shore of Wonder Lake is a picturesque retreat that offers more than simply a place to sleep. There’s a dock with kayaks, a fire pit, grill, and even live waterskiing shows every Friday night in the summer. Indoors, the lower level has a pool table and wet bar, and is great for parties, says owner Dominika Jurewicz, whose husband John designed and built the home. “The sleeping rooms are upstairs and you can’t hear the people partying in the basement,” she said. The fully furnished house has four bedrooms, three and a half baths, enough beds for twelve guests, but can accommodate more. The top floor is mostly open, with a small divided area and a bath, and would make a perfect dressing area for brides, Jurewicz said. She says the house’s best feature is its open and airy feeling, and of course the beautiful lake right outside. The Jurewicz’s are currently taking reservations for summer, learn more at www. homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p610034vb. mchenrycountymagazine.com

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MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2015 | 21

By ELIZABETH HARMON

hen Breanna Reiman of Lake in the Hills married her husband, Mark, in 2011, the couple wanted the day to include Breanna’s then-six-year-old son, Shayne. “We’d told Shayne he couldn’t call Mark ‘dad’ until after we were married, so our wedding day wasn’t just about Mark and me, it was a family day,” she says. Online, Breanna discovered the sand ceremony, which uses different colors of sand, poured from separate jars into a single jar, signifying the blending of a couple or family. She and Mark decided to use their wedding colors of purple, teal and silver to symbolize the three members of the new family, and add touch of their own, by including a fourth jar filled with white sand.

Saying ‘I do’ as a family

“The white sand signifies God in the marriage and that once all the sands are mixed together, there’s no way to separate them,” she says. In the years since, the family has grown to four members and will soon number five. The sand-filled jar stands in the living room, a tangible reminder of the family Breanna, Mark and Shayne became that day. The question of whether to include children in the wedding is one every couple should consider. “The topic of kids needs to come up at the beginning of the planning process, as you’re mapping out your budget and the number of guests. You’ll need to budget for kids’ plates, which aren’t more expensive, but are a different cost. You also want to make sure your invitations communicate to your guests whether kids are invited,” says Monique Pirtle, Illinois State Manager for the Association of Bridal Consultants. Tami Hacker, certified wedding planner and owner of Creatively Yours Wedding & Event Planning in McHenry, says she frequently works with couples who want children to share in their wedding celebration.

22 | FEBRUARY 2015 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

FOCUS ON FAMILY

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“The couple might have an extended family or friends who have lots of kids, or it’s a second marriage and a blended family, so they want to know how they can include the children and still have the wedding that they want,” says Hacker. Roles as flower girls, ring bearers, junior bridesmaids or groomsmen, ushers, readers and other wedding helpers can offer a way to involve kids. Traditionally, flower girls and ring bearers are under age 10, pre-teens and teens can serve in the other roles. “These are great if you have multiple people you don’t want to leave out,” Hacker says. Shayne acted as his mom and stepdad’s ring bearer, and carried the couple’s actual rings, rather than pretend ones. “There were some who felt that I was giving Shayne too much responsibility, but he did just fine. Actually, our best man was more nervous,” Reiman says. In the case of blended families, “including kids helps them get a close connection with

Including kids helps them get a close connection with the future stepmom or dad and it’s a nice way to show them that they’re part of the family.

the future stepmom or dad, and it’s a nice way If the reception includes children, Hacker to show them that they’re part of the family,” recommends setting up a supervised room or Hacker says. area with kid-friendly activities. “We’ve had clowns, face painting, movie night,” she says. Save-the-date cards and invitations can include the names and photos of the kids, and Young guests may dine with their parents, there are many options for couples who want or at a separate kids’ table, then go to the to acknowledge the creation of a new family. kids’ area after dinner. Others create separate The sand ceremony, or including children in kid-friendly menus or offer build-your-own lighting a unity candle, are both popular, as sandwich or sundae bars. “Caterers have lots well as the exchange of spoken family vows. of ideas for fun things you can do,” Hacker Just as the bride and groom’s attendants says. receive small gifts, a blended family might If the children will be part of the reception, also choose to do so. Pieces of jewelry, such it’s important to keep them entertained. as a necklace, medallion or another item can be given ahead of time and worn during the Hacker recommends a goody bag with games, ceremony, or be part of the wedding ring and a disposable camera with a list of things exchange. to photograph. Though children may attend the ceremony, The Reiman’s reception hall offered a kids’ some receptions, especially evening events, are plate meal option, but otherwise, their for adults only. “If you’re planning an adultsyoungest guests mingled with the adults. only reception, the invitation should specify “They were out on the dance floor with that or set an age limit so people can plan everyone else,” Reiman says. ahead,” says Pirtle.

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MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2015 | 23

Strung Out! Mother wonders if it’s just a stage ... or something more?

likely have mentioned before that my kids have some idiosyncrasies that make them very unique. But where do I draw the line between “unique” and “probably could use professional help?”

My dear son Colin is stubborn, opinionated and probably too smart for his own good. He’s quickwitted, the king of the one-liners and usually has us laughing out loud even when we know better. Among these other traits, he also very detailoriented. While this attention to detail is out the window when it comes to cleaning his room, picking up his dirty clothes off the floor or flushing the toilet, when it comes to the smallest string hanging from his clothing or a stuffed animal, everything must stop and I am required to cut said string or his day cannot possibly go on. Dressing him becomes quite challenging, because he won’t wear anything with buttons, zippers, snaps or even a drawstring. (The drawstring aversion is new and considering he only wears warm-up pants, most of which have drawstrings, I have been left to cut them out of most pairs.) Luckily he has enough girth to hold his pants up. In the fall, as the weather was transitioning, he refused to wear short sleeves with long pants or long sleeves with shorts. There were a few soccer games for which I had to layer him up when the

24 | FEBRUARY 2015 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

temperatures dropped, and he could not wrap his mind around wearing a long-sleeved shirt under his short-sleeved uniform with shorts. One evening I had to chase him around the house to get him ready (and that was before he found out he also had to wear pink socks for Breast Cancer Awareness Month). He started wrestling a few months ago. One evening, amidst the typical carpool craziness with the two kids, I was forced to bring clothes for him so he could change when we got to practice. I didn’t pay much attention to what I grabbed, and apparently it was completely unacceptable (based on his strict standards). The shirt was too short on him and the sleeves hit him in a “weird spot” that bothered him. I told him he could put his longsleeved shirt back on, but he refused. Desperate, I finally suggested I rip the sleeves off his T-shirt. It seemed like a good idea at the time, but once I removed the sleeves, there were a ton of loose strings ... and he really unraveled. Ultimately, we left practice because there was no way he could cope with the wardrobe choices offered to him. This was stressful, but not shocking. I usually have to allow extra time to get him ready at wrestling practice because he has to have the Velcro on his shoes “just right.” Even after I line them up to what seems perfect, he has to re-attach them at least three times before he’s satisfied. When school started this year, I had to return three pairs of shoes because, even though they fit, the Velcro didn’t line up perfectly in his mind, and he refused to wear them after that. I’m scared to see what happens when he needs to wear shoes with laces and learn to tie his shoes. He will become a quick learner to avoid having them come untied, or he FOCUS ON FAMILY

will explode in the process. Now that the cold weather is upon us, gloves, hats, boots and snow pants spell disaster for this kid. Everything has to be tucked in just right. The Nike swoosh on his hat has to be right in the center. If any piece of material is bunched, scrunched or out of place, we have to start the bundling process all over again. And no matter how much extra time I allow, I’m usually screaming at the top of my lungs, sweating profusely and searching for a pair of scissors or clippers to bring along, just in case any strings rear their ugly heads while we are out. Needless to say, I’m a little concerned. Sure we all have our hang-ups. I get a little nervous when a spatula ends up in the wrong drawer and often re-load the dishwasher after someone else puts dishes in it. But Colin’s need to tie up loose ends interferes with his daily life, and it leads me to believe he likely is suffering from something more concrete than a stage of childhood fussiness. And while I am hopeful this is just a phase, (like my daughter’s short-lived obsession with wearing three Band-Aids at all times when she was three) and shall soon pass, I think I will put a call into our child psychologist just to make sure.

Write This Down with Michelle Stien

• Michelle Stien is a stay-at-home mom of two children, ages 5 and 7. Her mother always told her to “write this down,” so she is sharing her experiences with McHenry County moms to help them deal with the craziness of being “Mom.”

mchenrycountymagazine.com

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MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2015 | 25

Wedding Day

Wonderful Ensure the most beautiful YOU on your wedding day!

Formula: So many options – there is liquid, mineral powder, and crème (and several combinations of those three choices). A basic rule to follow … on your wedding day, choose a liquid foundation. It will give you the best finish and wearability.

Start with beautiful skin If you have three months or more for wedding planning, you can start a skincare regimen that will give your skin a more radiant look by your wedding day.

Shade: Choose a shade that matches your skin exactly. If you cannot find the exact shade in one bottle, you may have to buy two and mix them. Sounds complicated, but there is nothing worse than seeing someone with the wrong shade on their skin!

• Don’t skip the serum. There is no better way to revive the skin than with a quality serum that delivers a high concentration of key preventative and/or anti-aging ingredients directly into the skin absorbing faster than any lotions or crèmes. • Treat your eyes. Make sure you are using a moisturize product especially made to treat the eye area. Not only are the eyes the first place to show signs of allergies, lack of sleep and stress but they are also the first place on the face we notice signs of aging. There are great products that specifically heal, soothe, protect and repair the delicate skin around the eyes. • How many times can I say “moisturize?” The best way to maintain healthy hydrated skin is by using a moisturizer (which fits your skin type) twice a day.

Tone: When checking for the proper shade, make sure you check for the proper tone as well. Some of us already know what undertone our skin carries (yellow, pink, peach, blue, olive). Whether you know or not, when looking for the best match, apply and check under a bright light for any tone that stands out from your skin. If one of those tones is visible, you will need to pick a shade (at the same level) with a different tone. Texture: Make sure you choose the proper formula. If you want your foundation to sit well on your skin (especially on your wedding day which will mean 10-12 hours), you must pick a formula that will accommodate your skin type. For example, if your skin is dry, you will want to pick a more moisturizing formula. If your skin has dark sun spots or blemishes, you may need a full coverage.

• Protect, protect, protect. Use an SPF30 daily if you are in the sun on a regular basis. This does not mean just sunbathing! If you drive or are “in and out” during the day, SPF will save your skin from accelerated aging.

Luminosity: Adding luminosity to your foundation can be very youthful and makes skin look great in photos. Just be careful not to add more “glow” than you can handle.

Find a custom foundation Wearing a liquid foundation, custom made to match not only your skin color but also to fit your skin texture, will ensure the best photos and makeup that stays all day and night. If you cannot find a custom liquid foundation, here are some tips to help you find a perfect fit for your skin:

Beautiful eyes Keep it simple and elegant. Choose shadows in natural shades and don’t use all shimmer shadows (blending in one or two matte shades will make for a more natural look). You will want to add black or deep brown eyeliner to make sure eyes look defined and stand out in photos. Just be careful not to overdo it!

26 | FEBRUARY 2015 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

FASHION & BEAUTY

False lashes: Even with a more natural look, specialized lashes for brides add a soft, feminine look to the eyes and stay on even through tears. Fabulous lips Choose the best shade to fit your coloring and “comfort zone.” Lips with proper shade will balance your facial features. Professional makeup application Want to just enjoy the day without any worries about the best makeup look? Have your makeup done by a professional. If you choose this option, make sure you do a “trial run.” Choose a makeup expert who will include a trial run as part of the bridal makeup service. You do not want to be surprised on your special day. This also is a great idea if you would like to have the members of your bridal party’s makeup applied professionally. mchenrycountymagazine.com

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LIPO LIGHT FOR BODY CONTOURING

ith so many options for weight loss and body contouring available, it can be overwhelming to understand the many choices in front of you.

One option, called LipoLight, offers patients a non-invasive method for body contouring. Lipo-Light is a light emitting diode (LED) system specifically designed for weight loss centers to contour the body by losing inches in circumference off specific body areas (waist, hips, thighs, arms, glutes). Lipo-Light offers eight or 16-pad treatments, which are strapped directly to the fatty areas often resistant to diet and exercise. The light (635nm) emitted from Lipo-Light causes the fat cell membranes to temporarily alter the permeability of the cell. This brief change allows the fat contents to seep out from the cell into the interstitial space, where it can be processed by the lymphatic system. Many people ask what happens to the fat? After being released, triglycerides are broken down into free fatty acids and glycerol, and enter the blood stream. Once in the blood stream, several things may occur:

getting the best results, three things are important: • As a rule, sick clients should not be treated. • Hydration is critical. Drink plenty of water, spread out throughout the day. Diuretics (coffee, alcohol, etc.) are discouraged. • The lymphatic system should be mobilized. Post-treatment exercise is essential. We utilize vibrational therapy for best results.

*Individual results vary and are not guaranteed.

How is Lipo-Light different than liposuction?

Liposuction is an invasive procedure involving the mechanical removal of fat cells. By contrast, Lipo-Light is completely non-invasive and only affects fat cells temporarily. Lipo-Light does not compete with liposuction; it is simply a body shaping option available to clients who do not wish to undergo a surgical procedure.

Some of the free fatty acids are readily available to be used as fuel by the body during exercise. What is not consumed as energy will get to the liver, where it will either be oxidized or re-processed for storage. It is unknown how much gets oxidized versus re-stored, but results suggest that fat does indeed get oxidized (no visible or measurable redistribution of fat in the treated areas).

What results can I expect?

Individuals have lost anywhere from two inches to six inches* over a course of treatments. To maximize the chances of

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Dr. Jill Howe DC, CNPS Superior Medical Weight Loss 6119 Northwest Highway Crystal Lake, IL 60014 815-656-4644 www.SuperiorMedicalWeightLoss.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2015 | 29

OWN YOUR HEALTH Do you want to get healthier in 2015 and beyond? Truth is, you don’t need a fancy diet or an expensive and hard-to-follow detox program. It’s likely you simply need to do more of the basic things that are good for your health. Good health does take good effort and attention, but it doesn’t have to be complex.

30 | FEBRUARY 2015 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

mchenrycountymagazine.com

Step 1: Get under regular chiropractic Or you can take it to the top level and get involved with what we feel is the most incredible form of care, with weekly check ups at exercise out there, CrossFit. minimum Yeah, I started here. It’s really simple folks — we live in a busy, toxic world and our bodies and nervous systems undergo a lot of stress. Regular chiropractic care optimizes the body’s ability to function, and keeps your nervous system humming along at a high level … both pretty darn handy when it comes to being healthy, and staying that way, for a long time.

CrossFit sometimes gets a bad rep for being “crazy” too much, and too hard. It’s none of those things, and the folks who make such claims likely have no experience with it. Truth is, if you walk into any CrossFit class across the country you’ll see everyone. There are 23-year-old studs and 53-yearold “regular folks” who love staying fit and healthy. And beginners just looking to start a fitness regimen. It’s meant to be scaled and adapted to each individual person, and that’s the beauty of it!

Patients under regular chiropractic care tend to get sick less often, and get over it a lot quicker when If you’re local to Crystal Lake, we love CrossFit they do. Plus they regularly report improved energy AMRAP. Check them out! levels and mood, more flexibility, and a better ability to adapt to stress. We think those are good things.

Step 2: Stay hydrated You run on water. About 70 percent of your body is, in fact, made of the stuff. In comparison, cars run on oil and gasoline for major functions. How does your car run when it’s out of oil or gas? What if you put Diet Coke into your gas tank, or a decaf sugar free soy latte into your car’s engine? Yeah, not good. Drink water — a lot of it — and never stop. And don’t forget your kids! Ditch the juice and get them downing water non-stop!

Step 3: Get fit In our opinion, and without doubt, this one trumps nutrition for many reasons. Staying active and being fit really changes the style and sort of food you crave, and helps you eat healthier. Your body is hard-wired for movement, and your brain and nervous system’s “batteries” get charged when you do. In contrast, if you sit around and live a sedentary life, you’ll have low energy and crave sugar and caffeine. It’s that simple. Regular exercise also is an amazing detox agent, designed to rid your body of built up toxins and junk that accumulates thanks to the chemicallyinduced world in which we live. If you don’t exercise regularly, not only does fat accumulate, but so do those toxins. That’s one of the many reasons regular exercise is shown to be the absolute best treatment and prevention strategy for everything from back pain to heart disease, cancer to depression, and so much more. You can go the easiest (and flat out free) way and get out to walk or jog, but that gets a little tricky this time of year, with snow and ice on the ground outside. You can go the cheaper gym route, but you’ll be reliant on yourself to come up with workouts and regimens.

mchenrycountymagazine.com

If you can’t pronounce it, don’t eat it.

— Dr. Anthony Ebel, Premier Wellness Chiropractic

Step 4: Eat clean Notice I didn’t say eat “better” or “Paleo” or anything like that. I could, and I easily should. But you’ve also heard that a million times and it likely hasn’t worked a million times. I could write a 44-page article teaching you why the Paleo diet is by far the best and is what you should strive for. But truth is, if you were to decide to pick up the guitar this year and start playing, you shouldn’t expect to be Slash from Guns N’ Roses by the end of day one. It takes time and repetition to get better. So we’ve found by far the most effective, healthenhancing starting point for our patients in this toxic, chemical-laced, GMO-lovin’ American diet is to just, flat out, clean it up! If you can’t pronounce it, don’t eat it. If its list of ingredients goes beyond more than a few things, don’t eat it. If it can sit on the shelf for four years and still be “edible” then it wasn’t really edible to begin with.

should take these every single day: • Whole food multivitamin (If it’s synthetic, it’s worthless) • Clean, pure fish oil (omegas) • Probiotic • Vitamin D (especially in winter months)

Step 6: Don’t worry, be happy By far the number one destroyer of good health these days is not gluten (although it’s no good). It’s stress … or more accurately defined — distress. Not all stress is bad, and in fact overcoming regular stress helps make us more resilient and strong (just like regular exercise improves muscle strength and cardiovascular fitness). Having a “busy” and challenging job and schedule is not all that bad, unless our reaction to it is bad. If you constantly complain about how busy you are, constantly moan and groan, and constantly feel worn out and tired … well then you are. Sure it’d be nice to throw away all of that stress and just head to a beach in Mexico, but it’s not reality. So how do you get as close to that feeling as possible, and keep it that way? Put Steps 1-5 in action, and keep them in action every day for good! You’ll often find the happiest, least stressed individuals have more responsibilities than you do, more kids than you do, a “busier” schedule than you do. However, the way they react to it and take it on may be dramatically different, and that’s the key. Just like your diet, cut out the toxicity and clean it up. If your workplace is toxic, change jobs … if your friends are toxic, change friends … If your schedule is toxic, adjust it. It won’t take long and you’ll be experiencing good health and the good life that comes with it! Get adjusted, drink lots of water, move often, eat clean, and be happy. Three, two, one ... GO!

Wellness within reach

with Dr. Anthony Ebel

Step 5: Take some supplements Your diet is not going to be perfect. Even if it were, our environment is toxic and polluted, and there are some things we just can’t get at high enough doses through food alone … things like omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, and Vitamin D in the winter. So for supplements we stick to the same theme — own the basics. Everyone from kids to grandpas

Dr. Ebel is a Certified Pediatric Chiropractor with Premier Wellness Chiropractic in Crystal Lake, and nationally known expert on autism.

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2015 | 31

Making Every Moment Count

racy and Jennifer VanHoutan have three young children who spent the first several years of their lives growing and maturing as most kids do.

But when Noah, now 10, and Laine, now 8, left their toddler years, life changed for them … and their family. Noah and Laine have LINCL-Batten disease, a rare genetic disorder that affects fewer than 450 children in the U.S. The disease, usually fatal between the ages 8 to 12, robs children of the motor skills they have already acquired: speech, balance and mobility. “Children with Batten disease develop normally through their toddler years, giggling, talking and running circles around their parents,” says Jennifer VanHoutan. “By age 3, they begin to have seizures and gradually lose the ability to walk, talk and feed themselves.”

were introduced to JourneyCare, a local nonprofit agency, who through their JourneyCare for Children program provides specialized, compassionate care and support for infants, children and families who are facing serious or life-limiting illnesses. The program is the largest of its kind in Illinois. The JourneyCare pediatrics team, which includes specially trained nurses, home health aides, social workers and child life specialists, help care for Noah and Laine. At first, help was needed changing Noah’s feeding tube. Today, visits include checking both Noah and Laine’s vitals, communicating with doctors regarding changes in their conditions and reviewing the childrens’ symptom management and disease progression. Just as importantly, Jen Mangers, JourneyCare’s Child Life Specialist, makes regular visits with Emily to help her cope with

“We worry about Emily’s future and maintaining balance in her world,” VanHoutan says. “Jen works with her and talks with her. Having Jen here helps me to better manage things.” “They are not afraid to be part of our world,” VanHoutan says of her family’s JourneyCare team. “No one has ever touched our world like JourneyCare has.”

From humble beginnings

For more than 30 years, JourneyCare, a nonprofit, community-based agency, has provided pain and symptom management and end-of-life expertise and care for those with serious illnesses and their families. “JourneyCare has helped people with advanced illness and their families define what’s most important to them and live life to the fullest on their journey,” says Sarah Bealles, president and CEO of JourneyCare. “It’s about making each day the best day possible, however they define it.”

While the VanHoutans are determined to fight the disease by raising awareness and funds for research as they care for their two children, they have another worry in the back of their minds: keeping life as normal as possible for their third child, Laine’s fraternal twin, Emily, who does not have Batten disease.

In its three decades of service, JourneyCare — formerly Hospice and Palliative Care of Northeastern Illinois — has served tens of thousands of patients and families throughout its 10-county reach, including those in McHenry, Lake, Cook, DuPage,

Several years ago, the VanHoutans 32 | FEBRUARY 2015 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

the fears and emotions associated with her siblings’ illness through play, education and self expression.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

mchenrycountymagazine.com

Kane, Kendall, Will, DeKalb, Boone and Winnebago counties. Yet its origins started quite humbly. In 1982, five Woodstock women, with a vision and $20 each, came together to offer better end-of-life care to the residents of McHenry County. The women — Pat Billimack, Janet Brown, Joan Brown, Esther Hackman and Marjorie Mooney — believed that those touched by serious illness deserved to be treated with the utmost dignity and care throughout their last days. Just two years after Hospice of McHenry County was formed, a group of volunteers in Barrington with similar goals formed Hospice of Northeastern Illinois. In 1984, the two groups merged under the Hospice of Northeastern Illinois banner, the predecessor to JourneyCare.

“Thanks to the support and generosity of the community, JourneyCare has continued to fulfill our promise of providing care to everyone in need of our services, regardless of

Halloween & Holiday Celebrations

utan pets Laine Van Ho orse at the a miniature h sponsored JourneyCare arty. Halloween p

Today, JourneyCare’s focus remains providing comfort and quality of life to each patient, caring for the whole person, not just the disease. Care is provided through a team approach, with the plan of care individualized based on the patient and family’s wishes, goals and beliefs.

Special entertainment will be provided by Libido Funk Circus, a premier dance party band well-known throughout the Chicago area.

Some of the programs for JourneyCare for Children that will receive funding from the dance are beneficial to families in ways that many don’t quite expect. Last year, for example, JourneyCare for Children hosted two events for patients, parents and siblings — a Halloween party and a holiday party.

“Far too many people wait to call JourneyCare and miss out on the benefits of hospice care,” she says. “We hear time and time again from families that they wish they had called JourneyCare sooner.”

“Many of our pediatric patients are not able to join in trick or treating,” says Kristen Drago, Manager of JourneyCare’s Pediatric Services. “At the party, the children dressed up, trick or treated among the offices, played games and enjoyed treats. Mane in Heaven Animal Assisted Activity and Therapy brought along four miniature horses, which were a big hit with everyone!”

Get Dancin’

Today, JourneyCare is seeing more families in need, who have exhausted their healthcare benefits, have no insurance at all or are struggling financially because of sacrifices they have had to make to care for a seriously ill loved one.

mchenrycountymagazine.com

“JourneyCare’s Decades Dance is an incredibly fun event and it supports a great cause — our pediatric care program,” says Jason Leppin, Vice President of JourneyCare Foundation. “Over 50 percent of our pediatric patients and their families are facing financial challenges. They may be underinsured, or require services not covered by Medicare or private insurance. Mounting medical expenses may have created financial hardship for the family. The proceeds from the Decades Dance will help us ensure that all those who need our care can receive it, and that quality of life is maintained.”

The evening also will include a 50/50 raffle, silent auction with electronic bidding, retro candy table, photo booth and more. For more information, call JourneyCare Foundation at 224-770-2525.

While there are still misconceptions about hospice, studies have shown that hospice care results not only in a better quality of life, but longer life for the patient and healthier survivorship for the family, Bealles says.

That’s where JourneyCare Foundation steps in. The foundation was formed in 1992 to make sure not a single patient or family is turned away because of an inability to pay for services. In 2013, more than $3.3 million was raised by the foundation, with $2 million paying for charity care and unfunded or underfunded services.

will be at 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, at the Holiday Inn in Crystal Lake — specifically will benefit JourneyCare for Children programs.

The holiday party provided similar fun to patients and their families, and JourneyCare staff have found the events are definitely worth it, Drago says. ability to pay,” Bealles says. One of the foundation’s signature fundraising events is its annual Decades Dance, an evening during which attendees are encouraged to dress up in retro attire and dance the night away. This year, proceeds from the dance — which HEALTH & WELLNESS

“Probably the biggest impact these events have is on the families,” she says. “They have the opportunity to be with other families who understand their situations, and realize they are not alone. Siblings, as well, can interact with other siblings and just be kids.”

4 Continued on next page MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2015 | 33

Volunteer

therapy or veterans support • Grief support For those who can’t make the • Landscaping and gardening Decades Dance but still want to • Community outreach, which support the organization and its programs, JourneyCare has several entails speaking to community groups about JourneyCare and its additional ways to participate. services The agency relies on its more than 600 volunteers to provide an • Fundraising events, including duck races and pool parties, the extra level of care and support to Decades Dance and the annual patients and families in a variety Gala of roles. • Administrative office help Volunteer opportunities include: Training is provided to all • Patient care volunteers. To learn more, visit • Innovative services, such as art JourneyCare.org/volunteer. and music therapy, Reiki, pet

JourneyCare’s Scope of Services

Featuring Libido Funk Circus

hat exactly does JourneyCare and JourneyCare for Children offer those affected by serious or lifelimiting illnesses?

“The focus and tone of what we do is enhance quality of life, provide comfort, alleviate pain and symptoms, and provide care and support for the patient and family,” says Jason Leppin, VP of JourneyCare Foundation. “Hence, JourneyCare’s mission statement: making every moment count for those touched by serious illness and loss.” With that in mind, JourneyCare offers the following services: • Palliative care, relieves pain and symptoms associated with a serious illness or side effects from medications or treatments to improve quality of life. • Hospice care, a specialized, compassionate approach to caring for those with serious illness who may have weeks and months, rather than years to live. • Inpatient hospice centers, located in Barrington and Woodstock, are for those with pain and symptoms that require short term, around the clock, medical oversight. • Grief support services, with specially trained, licensed counselors to help families, children, spouses and friends cope with the loss of a loved one. These services are available to anyone in the community, even if their loved one was not cared for by JourneyCare. Ongoing grief support programs include memorial services, Camp Courage and Remember U. •JourneyCare for Children, a specialized pediatric care program that focuses on relieving pain and managing symptoms while keeping life as normal as possible for the child and family.

Saturday, Feb. 28 Holiday Inn • 800 S. IL Route 31 • Crystal Lake

Learn more by visiting JourneyCare.org.

Call JourneyCare Foundation at 224-770-2525 One of JourneyCare’s signature fundraising events is its annual Decades Dance, an evening during which attendees are encouraged to dress up in retro attire and dance the night away. This year, proceeds from the dance specifically will benefit JourneyCare for Children programs. 34 | FEBRUARY 2015 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

HEALTH & WELLNESS

405 Lake Zurich Road • Barrington Main Phone: 847-381-5599 Referrals: 224-770-2489 mchenrycountymagazine.com

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MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2015 | 35

When function meets style, a house becomes your home By Wendy Foster

hoosing appliances is dramatically different than it has been in past decades. While once, selections would be made based primarily on functionality, now decisions also take style, technology, energy efficiency and size into consideration. Brothers Dan, Mike and Rick Gilbert own 14 Sears franchises including Appliance and Hardware stores, showrooms and outlets throughout the Chicago area, as well as in Wisconsin and Indiana.

36 | FEBRUARY 2015 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

Refrigerators/Freezers Unlike bygone eras, refrigerators/ freezers are no longer boxy and indistinctive. Today’s appliances are sleek and attractive and come in various styles, sizes and finishes.

back down on the fruits and vegetables. This will give you another week or so on fresh fruits and veggies. It’s great if you eat a lot of fresh produce,” says Gilbert. There’s good news in terms of finishes, he adds. The look of stainless steel is still the most popular way to go.

Dan Gilbert says among the top designs is the refrigerators/freezers featuring French-style doors and a bottom freezer. “GE and Kenmore both have come out with a different kind of finish. It looks “People like this style because you can like stainless steel but you can put a open the doors and see everything at magnet on it and it’s not as susceptible a higher level. You don’t need to bend to fingerprints. It’s one of the new down to see things. Furthermore, the things coming out,” he says. bottom freezers are big enough so that you can lay things flat, like frozen pizzas What’s hot for cooking? boxes.” “One of the biggest things going on Specialized features in refrigerators can in cooking is convection,” says Gilbert appeal to different consumers based on who explained there are two types of their eating habits. “For example, we convection ovens: regular and true. A have refrigerators with special crispers regular convection oven has a fan which that capture the moisture and drip it blows air around. A true convection HOME & LIFESTYLE

mchenrycountymagazine.com

oven also has an additional heating element along with the fan, so it blows warm air. Both types result in more even and efficient cooking in less time. The new, combination double ovens feature a small oven on top, with a full-sized oven on the bottom. “This is great when you’re baking or cooking something small or flat like a pizza. You can use the top oven and not heat up the whole house,” Gilbert says. Additionally, you can cook things at two different temperatures simultaneously.

the spin cycle is faster which reduces the drying time.”

there are great selections for any budget, taste and size requirements.”

A newer feature in dryers is the addition of sensors which can shut the dryer off when the clothes are dry. “This is a huge energy saving,” Gilbert said.

The Gilberts own 14 Sears stores including Sears Appliance and Hardware stores in Downers Grove and Lake Zurich, Illinois; Shereville and Valparaiso, Indiana; and Unfortunately, appliances don’t last as long as Germantown, Wisconsin. Their outlet stores are located in Darien, Illinois and Portage, they used to. “A lot of that is because of the electronics and technology and the changes in Indiana; and their showrooms are in Oswego, North Aurora, St. Charles and South Elgin, energy efficiency,” says Gilbert. “Most major Illinois and in Mequon and Delafield, appliances will last seven to eight years. The Wisconsin. good news about appliance purchases is that

Built-in ranges are very popular now as well. “If you have enough counter space it’s a nice option. There’s nothing to clean under or around,” says Gilbert. “They look really nice, and people like that the height is just right.” Induction cooktops are being called, “the wave of the future” by some. “Metal pans go onto the cooktop and the heat is conducted right into the pan. The stove top itself doesn’t get hot,” said Gilbert. “It’s very energy efficient because there’s no wasted heat. And the top is smooth and doesn’t have any coils or grates so it just wipes off. We’ll see how it goes but right now it seems to be among the latest and greatest things.”

Dishwashers The buzz on dishwashers is actually the elimination of sound. “The biggest thing with dishwashers right now seems to be how quiet they are,” says Gilbert. “Bosch was leading the way in quiet but now everyone is following suit.” Gilbert says that some customers prefer dishwashers with controls on the top rather than on the front, because of the sleeker appearance.

Laundry The big push in terms of washers is front load models. Because of the absence of an agitator, they are easier on clothes. The larger capacity of the top load washers is appealing, and sensors help determine the size of the laundry load and how much water needs to be used. Front load models feature water heaters, which because of higher water temperatures, can result in ultimate cleaning. Furthermore,

mchenrycountymagazine.com

HOME & LIFESTYLE

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2015 | 37

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McHenry County Magazine

H OME resource guide Find contacts for top home professionals in interior design, kitchen design, construction, and many other home-related ﬁelds. Whether you are a new or established home owner, you will ﬁnd places and products of interest in this monthly guide!

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Located in Downtown Cary, Kitchens by Julie is a family owned and operated organization that has extensive experience in all aspects of remodeling and construction. “Every successful project is a unique reﬂection of personal tastes, functions, lifestyle, budget and dreams,” says principal designer, Julie Loehner, CKD who operates Kitchens by Julie with her husband and project manager, Mark Loehner. Our goal is to create a wonderful experience designing and building your dream from conception to completion.

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Interior Design INTERIOR INSPIRATION Algonquin, 847-854-2966, www.interiorinspiration.com For a home or workplace that is beautiful, functional and inspired, call Randi Goodman, IFDA, “designer extraordinaire.” Now is a great time to spruce up your space. Randi makes the best use of furnishings and accessories you already have. She can suggest additional pieces, or start from scratch. The choice is yours! Custom or ready made, she can do it all! Call today for a personal consultation.

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MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2015 | 39

Tips on finding the right tax pro By ELIZABETH HARMON

ant to make this year’s tax season a little less…taxing? With a bit of preparation and the right person to help, you can approach April 15 with greater confidence and less frustration. While those with simpler finances, such as single people who are not self-employed, those without children, or a complex investment portfolio, can often tackle the job themselves, taxpayers with children, investments, and those who are selfemployed may want to consider hiring a professional. According to the IRS website, tax pros are classified as having unlimited rights to represent clients before the Internal Revenue Service in audits and other inquiries, or having limited representation rights. Those with unlimited representation rights include Enrolled Agents, Certified Public Accountants and Attorneys. Enrolled Agents are licensed by the IRS, have passed a threepart exam and suitability check and must Filing Season Program, they must obtain 18 complete at least 72 hours of continuing hours of continuing education, including a education every three years. CPAs are licensed by state boards of accountancy, have six-hour refresher course and pass an exam to receive AFSP passed the CPA exam and designation. meet education, experience and character requirements. All paid preparers must You want to Tax Attorneys are licensed have a Preparer Tax by the state bar or courts, choose someone Identification Number. have earned a law degree and As of January 2015, specialize in tax preparation who has the IRS website will and planning. offer a Directory of

experience, a

Paid preparers with limited Federal Tax Return representation rights include Preparers, listing those good reputation those who are not Enrolled with unlimited and and references. Agents, CPAs or Attorneys. limited representation They may only represent rights who have a valid — Robert Lamping, taxpayers whose returns PTIN. CPA and principal with Exemplar they’ve prepared and signed, Accounting and Tax Preparer’s fees can and only before certain vary widely. Robert levels of the IRS. Beginning Lamping, a CPA and principal with in 2015, the IRS will introduce a new Exemplar Accounting and Tax in Crystal designation for paid preparers with limited Lake says to be wary of preparers who base representation rights. Under the new Annual

40 | FEBRUARY 2015 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

BUSINESS & CIVIC

fees on a percentage of your refund, or those offering cut-rate service. “A lot of people shop by fee and base their decision on who is the cheapest. But you want to choose someone who has experience, a good reputation and references,” Lamping said. He also recommends scheduling a time to meet with a prospective preparer. “The interview is a time for the preparer to ask about your situation,” said Lamping. To make filing run smoothly, Lamping’s firm provides clients with a tax organizer, to determine the information and forms they’ll need to gather to complete their return. “It makes it easier than having someone show up with a shoebox, but that happens too,” Lamping said. It’s also important to review your completed return. “Your preparer might have missed something, or the client might have forgotten to provide it,” Lamping said.

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MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2015 | 41

Women of Distinction identifies women who have made a difference in McHenry County and who are representative role models as leaders in their fields and communities. Honorees will be profiled in the McHenry County Magazine’s May issue and recognized at an awards luncheon in May, 2015. Please fill out the form online (preferred method) by visiting www.McHenryCountyMagazine.com/events.com or fill in the form below (use additional space for nominee description) and return by February 15, 2015.

NOMINEE’S NAME

TITLE

NOMINEE

COMPANY

ADDRESS

BUSINESS PHONE

Achievements: Please list additional background information (career milestones; individual achievements, volunteerism, philanthropic work). On a separate piece of paper, explain why you think this person is a Woman of Distinction. Submit your nomination online at McHenryCountyMagazine.com/events __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

DEADLINE FOR NOMINATION: February 15, 2015 FAX: 815-477-4960 Mail: P.O. Box 250, Crystal Lake, Illinois 60039 Attn: Meredith Schaefer Email: mschaefer@shawmedia.com

NOMINATOR

__________________________________________________________________

NOMINATOR’S NAME

PHONE NUMBER

NOMINATOR’S RELATIONSHIP TO NOMINEE

Thank you to our 2014 sponsors:

42 | FEBRUARY 2015 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

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MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2015 | 43

At Valentine’s Day, the jewels rule!

Jewels Rule C

On Valentine’s Day

onsidered the most romantic day of the year, Valentine’s Day dates back to the end of the fifth century. What started as a midFebruary ancient Roman fertility celebration called “Lupercalia,” over time has developed into one of the most widely celebrated holidays in the world. It became associated with Christianity when the Catholic church decided to make February 14 the day to celebrate the softhearted Saint Valentine, the man who had been accused of performing secret marriage ceremonies in direct violation of the king.

Known also as the first day of the birds’ mating season, it wasn’t until the 1300s that Valentine’s Day became associated with love and romance.

Ani, is priced beginning at just $28. A wide selection of love-themed bracelets also can be found, sure to put a huge smile on her face every time she looks at it. And, if you Valentine cards started making an appearance plan on being one of the six million people who are going to propose this February 14, around the 15th century, with the tradition engagement rings in all shapes and sizes make really starting to pick up around the the perfect gift of love for your true love! th 17 century. Valentine’s Day became a major holiday in the 1840s, with the Whether you are planning to have an implementation of mass-produced greeting extravagant night on the town or simply cards. Fast forward to the 21st century, enjoy each other’s company in the warmth where some six million couples are likely to and comfort of your own home this get engaged each year, making Valentine’s Valentine’s Day, why not make this year’s Day the second most popular holiday for holiday one to remember with a dazzling gift engagements right after Christmas. of jewelery? So now that you know a little bit of the “holiday of love’s” history, what are some ideas for the perfect gift for your special someone? In addition to the 161 million cards that are exchanged on Valentine’s Day, flowers and chocolates come to mind. But why not make this year super special with the gift of jewelry? Pandora beads and bracelets have a starting price of just $30. One of the hottest new bangle bracelet lines, Alex and

44 | FEBRUARY 2015 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

BUSINESS & CIVIC

Gem Talk

with Karly Bulinski

• Karly Bulinski is a GIA Graduate Gemologist and part of the fourth generation to work at Steffan’s Jewelers, a fine jewelry store that has been family-owned and operated in McHenry since 1946. Visit them for all your jewelry needs at 325 N. Front St. in McHenry.

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Editor’s Choice

4 With this being the annual Wedding issue, and February being the month of Valentine’s Day, we thought it only fitting to highlight some perfect spots around our towns for a romantic dinner with that special someone. These are some of our favorites:

Bistro Wasabi, Lake in the Hills

Jameson’s, Huntley & Crystal Lake

Offering a contemporary blend of Asian cuisine and sushi, Bistro Wasabi will offer you an entrée as beautiful as romance itself. Complement your dinner with a fantastic and inventive cocktail and it will be a memorable evening for certain!

What could be a more traditional date to impress that dinner at a classic steakhouse? Jameson’s is just that and so much more! Enjoy a signature martini with a perfectly prepared Jameson’s Special Sirloin, or a delicate and divine London Broil.

Bimbo’s Italian Kitchen, McHenry You’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into the Italian countryside at Bimbo’s, where hearty delicious food fills you with happiness and satisfaction. Pair your classic country Italian favorites with a delicious glass of wine for the perfect meal with your special someone.

1776, Crystal Lake For something equal parts impressive and truly unique, visit 1776, an eclectic stop in downtown Crystal Lake, offering fabulous wines, wild game, and a commitment to local ingredients. Small plates are perfect for sharing across the table, and the gluten free lobster pizza offers a decadent and playful option anyone can enjoy. mchenrycountymagazine.com

DINING & ENTERTAINING

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2015 | 45

Sinful Saints Dixieland Band Celebrating C ele ebrratin ng T Their heir 2 20th 0th hY Year ear w with itth

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A Bloody Good Time

he other day, I sat at the bar with a friend of mine doing some research and trying some newfangled ideas and combinations. (Yeah, the staff really bought that.) “Like Dave needs an excuse to sit at the bar … now he’s calling it research,” quipped one of my favorite servers. But it was, at least in the beginning.

Next category was wine with beer. Try as we might we could not get a winner here either. By now we had about a dozen bottles and as many glasses on the bar making it look like the day after scene from the “Animal House” Toga Party. Our next brainstorm was mixing popular cocktails with beer. We mixed a margarita and Sam Adams and babang! We have a winner. It was delicious. Feeling overconfident from our one-and-25 record, we proceeded to tinker with the original brunch cocktail — the Bloody Mary. We mixed beer and bloodies and flavored vodkas, but no great success was to be had.

There is a movement in the industry of new versions of Bloody Mary’s and many places are cashing in on the craft beer craze by combining these brews with traditional brunch beverages like coffee or tomato juice. I was looking for a few new combinations to launch with our new Then we just started freestyling. brunch launch later this month. Tim came up with a beauty called the My friend Tim Gartner is a guy who “Milkshake” that tasted just like a real travels the world like we all travel milkshake, I mean really delicious but around town. He is always returning boy, did it pack a wallop! There was from exotic lands and always seems another great one, but for the life of to have a new cocktail concoction for me I can’t remember what it was. A us to try. So who better to bring in to little too much research by this point. help than Tim? The next day, after clearing my head, We started mixing coffee with I checked my notes to see what it was everything from Guinness to hard and couldn’t read my own writing. It cider. Conclusion: coffee doesn’t mix looked like a chicken stepped in ink well with any beer. I originally liked and walked on my notebook. the idea thinking, “I could drink I am confident that by the time more, since the caffeine was now you read this, I will have recollected mixed with my beer.” Nothing could that last winning cocktail, and will be farther from the truth (and in make it available on our new Sunday reality, it’s probably not a good thing Brunch Menu. Just not sure what to for me to discover ways to drink call it — the “Tim Gartner” or the “I more beer). The only thing we could Can’t Remember” both have a nice get that was palatable was when we ring. Decisions, decisions. drowned the mixture with Bailey’s See ya’ soon at brunch! Irish Cream. So, no winners there.

Put A Fork In It

with David Faccone

• David Faccone is the owner/ chef of Crystal Lake Rib House and brings 30 years of experience in the restaurant business to McHenry County.

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DINING & ENTERTAINING

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2015 | 47

expect the

RLD

With Darrellynn Hanes

Get away S

On Your Special Day

o many details — the location for the ceremony, reception, florist, photographer, dresses, gifts — oh my, there’s a lot to take care of when planning your special day. And that’s why destination weddings are becoming more and more popular. Traveling to a place you’ve been dreaming of, whether that’s just as bride or groom, or with several other loved ones, a destination wedding could be the perfect fit. When we talk with couples about their destination wedding plans one of the most common reasons we hear is they want it to be less stressful. Speaking with your travel professional is a great start. We begin the process of helping to decide on a great destination. Then we focus on the location and resort or hotel stay. We help set up the special day and time, working with the local wedding coordinator. We also assist with save-the-dates or invitations, so that if you are having guests we can handle all of their travel arrangements, once again taking that stress away from our wedding

48 | FEBRUARY 2015 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

couple. We know your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life and we want to assist you with all the details. If a destination wedding is not your style, one special component in your planning process always is your honeymoon. And just as you want every moment of your wedding to be perfect, you want that for your honeymoon as well. A perfect honeymoon is different for everyone. For some it’s filled with activities and adventure, and others it’s relaxing on a beautiful beach. Whether planning a destination wedding or a honeymoon, the location is certainly one of the most important decisions. Here are a few of the most popular choices.

Hawaii With several islands to choose from, Hawaii has something for everyone. From the Chicago area, direct flights are offered from Chicago O’Hare to Honolulu. From Honolulu it’s easy to get to any of the other islands. Maybe Kaui is the island for you: this island is a total

OUT & ABOUT

sensory experience, where the gorgeous Waimea Canyon shares real estate with white sand beaches, lush forests and fern grottos. This island is perfect for honeymooners who want to relax on the beach or take in a water sport such as kayaking, snorkeling or diving.

Tahiti Officially known as French Polynesia, this gorgeous destination is well known for its over-the-water bungalows. What could be more romantic than sleeping above the turquoise lagoon waters in your thatchedroof hideaway, with all the amenities and service of a first class hotel room? The island of Tahiti (the largest of the French Polynesians) offers the perfect place to do everything or nothing at all. Jump in the lagoons by diving, snorkeling, or boating or explore the islands by safaris, hiking, or shopping.

Caribbean So many amazing choices in the Caribbean exist for your honeymoon. Similar to Tahiti and Hawaii, each of these islands offer beautiful relaxing beaches, unlimited water sports and activities, as mchenrycountymagazine.com

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well as cultural experiences and shopping. Two of the most popular honeymoon destinations in the Caribbean from the Midwest are Jamaica and the Dominican Republic. Known for all-inclusive resorts, these two destinations also feature many adults-only locations, perfect for that romantic retreat you’re looking for on your honeymoon.

Honeymoon Special

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wedding or honeymoon*

Whether planning a honeymoon or a destination wedding, your travel professionals are here to help you find the perfect destination for this very special time.

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Let us assist you in making this special trip the one you’ve been dreaming of since you were a little girl..

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OUT & ABOUT

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2015 | 49

to the Holiday Inn Conference Center. This event provides the ultimate in convenience to homeowners in the Northwest Suburbs by highlighting hundreds of home improvement displays for thousands of inspiring ideas and the latest and greatest products and services to remodel, repair and beautify their homes. And be February 14 — Food & Wine Pairing, Valentine’s Day & Fess Parker Wines from 6-9 p.m. sure to shop through our Exclusive Marketplace at Loyola University Retreat and Ecology Campus, for unique items and take-home treasures, and so much more! From interiors to exteriors, from décor 2710 S. Country Club Road, Woodstock February 4 — Adult Sip and Paint, Art Attack! to outdoor, find the best solutions for all of your Enjoy a five-course dinner with your sweetheart 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. at Pen & Mouse Design home improvement needs and all under one roof, paired with the wines of Fess Parker Vineyard, House in Algonquin Santa Barbara County, California. This dinner starts with free admission and free parking! For more Ages 18 & up. Art Attack! is a social painting party, with a wine reception with hand-passed appetizers information, visit www.FreeHomeshow.com or call no talent is necessary, and a fun way to unwind 630-953-2500. and leads to the five-course dinner paired with and create art. Price includes 11X14 canvas and wine. Phone: 815-338-1032. February 19 — Adult Cooking at Confetti paint materials, art instruction, and first beverage. Gourmet, 6:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at Confetti February 14 — Valentine’s Day Love Nature Bring a friend or make a new one! Cash bar Gourmet Academy, 8505 Red Tail Drive, Unit F, Celebration, 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. at Prairieview available. Samples of the paintings for each night Lakewood Education Center, 2112 Behan Road, Crystal Lake will be posted on the: http://penandmouse.com. Ages 17 and up. Dinner in New Orleans, program website. Also like our Facebook page for reminders Spend Valentine’s Day afternoon with your loved ones, while celebrating your love of nature! Stop in fee: $80, resident discount fee: $70. Registration and updates. Registration deadline three days for a little while, or stay the entire time to celebrate deadline three days prior to program date. Contact: prior to program date. Contact Sam Thompson at Sam Thompson: Phone: 815-459-0680, ext. 1220. 815-459-0680, ext. 1220 or email at sthompson@ the lives of the wildlife you love. Schedule of Email: sthompson@crystallakeparks.org. Web: crystallakeparks.org. Web: www.crystallakeparks. Activities: 4:00 p.m., Puppet Show 5:00 p.m., Guided Hike as the sun begins to set and the moon www.crystallakeparks.org. org. February 19 — Free Screening “Food For comes into view. Ongoing: Crafts, games, music January 29 through February 2 — Groundhog Change” 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. at Woodstock North High and sweet treats! Phone: 815-479-5779. Days, at the Historic Woodstock Square, Historic School Auditorium, 3000 Raffel Rd, Woodstock February 14 and February 15 — McHenry Woodstock Square, Woodstock Join us for a movie night! Food for Change is a County Home and Garden Expo, 10 a.m. - 5 In 1992, Woodstock became the backdrop for documentary that covers the history of co-ops and p.m. Saturday and Sunday at the Crystal Lake the movie “Groundhog Day,” starring Bill Murray the current movement of co-ops today. We will Holiday Inn Conference Center, 800 South IL Route and Andie MacDowell. Today, locals and visitors have a short question and answer after the movie, 31, Crystal Lake continue to gather on the Historic Woodstock where participants can also become owners of the Square each Groundhog Day to remember the fun The Crystal Lake Home and Garden Expo returns Food Shed Co-op. Phone: 815-315-1541. and celebrate community that Woodstock has always been. The festivities include a free showing of the movie “Groundhog Day” at the Woodstock Theater, a walking tour of movie sites, and the grand finale: Woodstock Willie’s prognostication at 7:07 a.m. on February 2nd. The celebration also features a dinner-dance, two pancake breakfasts, a chili cook-off, and more (fees vary — please see the website for details). Phone: 815-334-2620. Visit the website: www.woodstockgroundhog.org. empty nests, job stress to domestic bliss, it’s fast paced and acerbic, but always affectionate. As one patron put it, “A hoot with a heart!” Married Alive! is a funny, affectionate outrage, and all it takes is four actors and a piano to go on this journey from Niagara to Viagra. Phone: 815-356-9212.

February 6 through February 15 — Married Alive! 8 p.m. and 3 p.m. at The Raue Center For The Arts, 26 N Williams St., Crystal Lake Married Alive! is a funny and touching new musical that looks in on two married couples, one newlywed and one oldly wed. From babies to

50 | FEBRUARY 2015 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

OUT & ABOUT

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