SLM-5-1-2014

Suburban Life MAY 2014

MAGAZINE

8 WEDDING Wonderful Dresses, jewelry, flowers, food and more, right out your front door

45

Introducing Our 2014 Women of Distinction

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Inside

12 CUTTING THE CAKE

The traditional tiered wedding cake may be taking a backseat to more creative and sweet table friendly options.

Wedding Guide 8 THE COMPREHENSIVE VENUE – Boasting great food, convenient location and a host of event amenities, the Holiday Inn & William Tell has all you need for a spectacular wedding weekend.

10 DESTINATION: WONDERFUL – Take your wedding somewhere special, with the help local travel expert Donna Greenwald.

13 WEDDING WONDERFUL – Take a peek inside the ‘big day’ of Bob and Georgann, as they share their wedding album with us.

16 I DO, TAKE TWO – With second weddings becoming more common, we take a look at the trends, the traditions and more.

18 INVITATIONS, IN THE ELECTRONIC AGE We might be attached to our smartphones and other technology, but when it comes to the formal invitation, traditional takes the cake.

Fashion & Beauty 20 BEYOND THE PALE - Color, texture popping up as 2014 wedding gown trends 22 SEW ELEGANT – Master furrier Christos Taltsidas talks shop with editor Sherri Dauskurdas 24 TICKET TO RIDE – Stop off at some great spas along the rails, with columnist Vicki Martinka Peterson.

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Dining & Entertaining 28 WINNER OF A DINNER – From plated parties and a champagne toast to creative food stations and signature drinks, receptions offer more choice than ever before.

30 PANCAKE PERFECTIONS – Hosting an overnight guest or a beautiful brunch? Kick up your flapjacks from ordinary to extraordinary

Family in Focus 32 ALL IN THE FAMILY – Some marriages are bringing together more than husband and wife.

Find out how to blend families with kids, from planning the wedding to living together.

34 SORRY, MOM – Columnist Michelle Stien offers appreciation for all her mother gave to her growing up, and her apologies for her own transgressions as a child.

Health & Fitness 54 WHITE WEDDING – Get a bright and gleaming smile with tips and advice from Pinewood Dental.

Out & About 56 ARTIST SHOWCASE – Denis Hagen of Wheaton share his digital photo composite, Standing Figures with Birds.

58 SCENE IN THE SUBURBS – Guests came out to celebrate, Carnevale-style in support of Family Shelter Services.

62 CALENDAR – Adventure and art, food and fun fill the calendar across our communities this month.

Home & Lifestyle 37 BURGEONING BURR RIDGE – Shopping and dining abound in this village, making a name for itself as great community to live, work and play.

40 HIS AND HERS – How to mesh personal styles into a home you’ll both adore 45 WOMEN OF DISTINCTION – Introducing our 2014 honorees m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

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There is nothing quite like a wedding.

and offer tips to arrange all the details. And if you want to stay in town, but need a hand with the organizations, look no further than the William Tell Holiday Inn, a comprehensive venue that has planners on staff to assist with everything from the menu and the cake to the travel arrangements for your guests.

Whether it’s an extravagant affair, filled with the fine food and wine in posh surroundings, or a simple soiree where friends and family are the focus, a wedding day is something special – a treasured day that lives on in the memories of everyone involved.

There’s so much to share – from decorating your home to blending your families, and it’s all right here, in the pages of Suburban Life Magazine. Thanks for reading.

Here, in our towns and our cities, couples have an almost endless stream of choices available to them. Everything you could ever need to make your special day truly your own is just steps out your front door.

Thanks for reading -

Sherri Dauskurdas Editor

We’ll chat about the protocol of invitations in an age where email reigns as chief communicator.

We’ll look at the hottest trends in wedding gowns and men’s formalwear. And we’ll talk about saying “I do” the second time around.

We meet two local couples, hear their stories of love, and take a peek at their celebrations.

MAGAZINE

Suburban Life Magazine Published by Shaw Media 1101 W. 31st Street Downers Grove, IL 60515 Phone: 630-368-1100 suburbanlifemagazine@shawmedia.com

General Manager Laura Burke lburke@shawmedia.com Advertising Bill Korbel 630-427-6230 bkorbel@shawmedia.com Editor Sherri Dauskurdas 630-427-6209 sdauskurdas@shawmedia.com

Does wedding planning make you want to escape? How about a destination wedding? Our travel expert can help you choose a great place

Designer Carol Manderfield 630-427-6253 cmanderfield@shawmedia.com on the

Account Executive Kathleen Sergent 630-427-6208 ksergent@shawmedia.com

day of Western Springs residents Bob and Georgann Grecco.

PAGE 13

Correspondents Yvonne Benson, Allison Horne, Stephanie Kohl, Vicki Martinka Peterson, Melissa Riske, Michelle Stien, Tom Witom

Gown by The Crystal Bride, Geneva

Photographers Joe Perez, Ron McKinney Jason Adrian

COVER Take a peek inside the big

Makeup by MAC, Oakbrook Center Tuxedo by Means Wearhouse Jewelry by Bella Cosa, Willowbrook Flowers by English Garden, Clarendon Hills Photo by Ron McKinney Cover Inset photo provided

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Suburban Life

Suburban Life 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 Suburban Life Magazine, 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 or via email at subscriptions@shawmedia.com. m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

I Art for all

t’s the 18th year for Elmhurst’s popular Art in the Park event, and 2014 promises to be the best of the bunch.

Unique blend of fine art and artisan creations highlights ‘Art in the Park’

Event organizer Roz Long is expecting 125 artists from across the Midwest to participate in the juried show of fine art, craft and design, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday May 3 and 4 at Wilder Mansion in downtown Elmhurst. The event is co hosted by the Elmhurst Park District and presented by Room & Board.

Locally based “School of Rock” will have musicians performing on Saturday, and live acoustic music will complement the show all weekend long.

Elmhurst Art Museum offers a student art exhibit and the work of local children, and the Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art also will be open to visitors.

“A lot of shows are strictly fine arts, or they are strictly hand-made crafts.,” she explains. “But for Art in the Park, we try to bring all forms of art together, to create the most unique show around.”

“It’s a cool cultural destination,” Long says. With good weather, it brings 10,000 people to downtown. There’s always something going on in the center of the park,” says Long. “All ages love it.”

That means visitors will find painters and sculptors alongside weavers and artisan crafters. Quilters display their work just steps from gourmet food booths, offering fine chocolates and sauces, much like a French Market, Long says.

Lunch is offered from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Wilder Mansion, provided by Café Amano. Coffee and pastries are available for purchase throughout the day.

The Kids and Family Art Interactive Art Court offers more than 15 artrelated activities, including Microsoft

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with Window 8 painting, canvas painting, portrait sketching, and fairy garden workshops.

A complete list of participating artists and sponsoring organizations is available online at www.rglmarketingforthearts.com

SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | MAY 2014 | 7

The Comprehensive Venue Holiday Inn & William Tell Chicago SW Countryside Banquets & Conference Center melds Old World elegance with modern amenities to create the perfect wedding day

By SHERRI DAUSKURDAS

W

edding planning can be an overwhelming task. A typical wedding reception includes food and drink, flowers and cake, music, photography and more! If you’re looking to reduce the planning burden and lighten your load, turn to a partner who offers both the expertise in wedding planning and the resources to get you all you need in a single location.

The Holiday Inn & William Tell Chicago SW Countryside Banquets & Conference Center can be that partner. Its expansive facility boasts four banquet spaces, each unique in its size style, to complement the individualized tastes of the bride and groom.

“Each ballroom space has its own unique character and flare that is charismatic in style,” says Aida R. Cruz, director of sales for

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WEDDING GUIDE

the Countryside hotel and conference center.

“Our elegant Atrium ballroom boasts 25 foot wooden ceilings, a stone triple fireplace and a private loft area.” This room can accommodate up to 340 guests.

For smaller parties of up to 180 guests, the Terrace Room features natural skylights and stained glass windows. A private entrance allows guests the convenience of entering the room direct from the outside.

“The Grand Ballroom is our classic space, and features the crystal chandeliers and white marble dance floor that will enhance any social event,” Cruz says.

More intimate receptions may find the Countryside Room the perfect choice, comfortably accommodating up to 160 guests.

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Hosting both the ceremony and the reception in a single location is a great way to streamline the event, saving time, costs and stress. At Holiday Inn & William Tell, ceremonies can be planned for indoors or out.

“We have a large courtyard patio that is perfect to host an outdoor ceremony and a beautiful garden with a gazebo that is perfect for photo opportunities,” Cruz says.

Once you’ve chosen the room, it’s time to discuss the menu and package options.

“We offer iconic dining–mixing the old and the new–offering a different array of foods that will satisfy every palate,” says catering manager Michelle D’Andrea. “Our niche in the market has been our famous family style service. This unique service style has been a bride and groom favorite for many generations.”

guests, champagne and unlimited wine service throughout dinner, decorations, chair covers, a sweet table with chocolate fountain and a wedding cake of choice. The bride and guest are invited to return to Holiday Inn & William Tell for a complimentary first year anniversary stay.

Other package options can include an Executive Suite for bride and groom, a bridal parlor room, cake cutting and wrapping, and more.

Complimentary hourly shuttle service is provided to Midway Airport and a popular ParkSleepFly program is available for every type of traveler.

For the ultimate wedding experience, please contact the Catering Sales Specialists at 708-352-1101. You can also visit the website at www.holidayinnwilliamtell.com.

“We have historical value in the market,” Cruz explains. “We have been hosting some of the finest weddings in the Chicago area for more than 50 years, Additionally, our list of our preferred vendors simplifies the process and creates that “one stop shop” location for any event.”

The hotel packages these services, making the process easy, and low-stress, D’Andrea explained.

The Platinum package includes a complimentary bridal suite with champagne and chocolate covered strawberries awaiting your arrival.

Two additional hotel accommodations are included for the parents of the bride and groom, as are preferred hotel rates for all wedding m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

Photos by Timothy Whaley Photographic Artist

WEDDING GUIDE

SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | MAY 2014 | 9

Destination:

I Do!

Find a getaway for your perfect day

T

he cost of a traditional ceremony and reception at a banquet hall or hotel can be outrageous, and last only a few hours. Many couples are choosing to exchange “I do’s” on the beach as the sun sets over the ocean. A destination wedding allows the bride and groom to spend quality time with their friends and family and for everyone to share in the celebration for days, making lasting memories.

Donna Greenwald Owner of Hinsdale Travel (630) 325-1335 thetravelpro@yahoo.com.

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Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life and your honeymoon is a trip of a lifetime! In today’s world of online booking options, many thought the travel agent had become obsolete, not the case at all! Travel agents know which hotels offer free weddings, and special promotions for their wedding guest and also know marriage requirements in the different islands. It’s important to choose a travel agent for expert guidance, one that will take the time to understand you and your needs.

WEDDING GUIDE

Riviera Maya is one of the favorite destinations for couples. This 112-mile stretch of coastal paradise, with its white sand beaches fronting turquoise waters, is the perfect setting for the fairytale wedding or dream honeymoon. Some hotels in Riviera Maya offer free wedding packages depending on the size of your group, the bride and groom also can earn a free room for themselves depending on the size of their wedding group. Talk to your travel agent to find out what property would be best for your destination wedding or honeymoon.

In the heart of the Caribbean, Punta Cana is another destination that offers great weather, modern and luxurious resorts and 40 miles of spectacular sugar white, palm-studded beaches! There are great promotions offered for weddings and honeymoons in Punta Cana.

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Dariusz Jewelers

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the perfect wedding destination

Jamaica is another great destination. This special island possesses a personality and charm that keeps romantics coming back for more! There are beautiful all-inclusive properties.

Why not tie the knot at sea? On Celebrity Cruise Lines you can have your wedding ceremony performed by the captain of the ship or you may choose a beautiful beach in the Caribbean or a stunning cliff top wedding in Greece to create a memorable destination wedding.

Whatever location you choose for your destination wedding or honeymoon, a travel agent can be the best asset in your planning.

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WEDDING GUIDE

SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | MAY 2014 | 11

Cutting out the cake: Dessert bars becoming main reception attraction

N

ot so long ago, a cake was the traditional - and only - dessert option at a wedding reception. Now, brides and grooms are embracing dessert tables featuring pretty much anything their sweet teeth desire.

“Just like how the rest of their menu is a reflection of the couple and their experiences, they are using their wedding desserts to brand their wedding,” says Brittany Ferrin, executive chef and owner of Truffleberry Market, Westmont, Ill., near Chicago. “Cake is a lovely tradition and can be delicious, but just like anything - more can also be more. Why not have your cake and other desserts and eat them, too?”

Chicago-based wedding and event planner Lauren Housley of Ryan Alexander Events, who often works with Ferrin, says, “It is completely OK to forgo a traditional cake. Many of my clients who want to experience the traditional cake cutting are opting for smaller cakes or even pies. By creating a table of smaller and different flavored cakes and pies it allows the clients to interject their favorite flavors.”

Set to your tastes This add-on dessert trend is becoming “incredibly popular,” Ferrin says. “I think in the last six years, we have yet to execute a wedding where cake was the only dessert offered. That says, I don’t think we have ever not had at least a cake appearance. Whether brides and grooms opt for something traditional or original, the cake is still a fun tradition for brides and grooms,” Ferrin says.

With a customized sweets table, the bridal

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couple can offer a variety of desserts that are designed to be unique to them, such as something they had on a special date, a childhood memory, a favorite trip or a college tradition.

“It’s fun for guests to interact with the menu in that personal way, too. When they see Door County Cherry Pie Pops they know it is because the bride always vacationed there with her family growing up. ... Add some custom signage and curated styling pieces (wine boxes, lucite cubes, antique trunks) and you have a one-of-a-kind sweets table,” Ferrin says.

One bride who “seriously” loves Dr. Pepper soda asked Ferrin to incorporate it into her desserts.

Ferrin and her team created dark chocolate and cherry mini cupcakes, then added Dr. Pepperinfused buttercream and topped it with a maraschino cherry.

“Some Dr. Peppery-ness was missing, though, so we made a Dr. Pepper reduction and injected it into a pipette. So fun to watch guests squeeze (it) inside the cupcake or their mouths and say “Oh my god, this is so Brittney,’” the bride.

Other ideas A doughnut and coffee bar can be a parting gift on a cold night or late night snack for night owls.

Guests take a paper bag printed with the name of the bride and groom and wedding date and fill with a warm doughnut, then visit a toppings bar stocked with cinnamon and sugar, vanilla bean powdered sugar, chocolate toasted coconut or

WEDDING GUIDE

sea salted caramel to personalize the dessert.

Coffee accompanies the treat with optional Bailey’s.

Cheese courses are a perfect opportunity to mix sweet and salty, such as a strong cheddar paired with sliced apple and candied walnuts. It is an unexpected way to end the meal and clear the palette.

A hot chocolate station is a perfect fit for fall or winter brides, with different mix-ins such as red velvet hot chocolate with white chocolate stir sticks. If it’s an adults-only reception, add mix-ins such as brandy or Kahlua. Make it interactive with a gourmet flavored marshmallow bar.

The cupcake movement is in full swing. Chefs can create custom cupcakes for guests with choices of base flavors (German chocolate, snickerdoodle, vanilla bean) and icing combinations (chocolate, vanilla, raspberry, cream cheese, coconut-pecan). Guests can mix and match based on the interaction with the chef.

There’s no sweeter way to send your guests home than with a bag of candy from a candy bar stocked with childhood favorites.

–More Content Now

m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

WEDDING Wonderful Join us for a glimpse at the “big day” for Bob and Georgann Grecco of Western Springs.

W

estern Springs residents Bob and Georgann Grecco met in college when they both were studying Music Education at University of Illinois. Married in December 2013, they still are making beautiful music together. Bob is band director at Amos Alonso Stagg High School in Palos Hills, and Georgann is choir director and music teacher at Herrick Middle School in Downers Grove.

Planning the wedding became a family affair, over the course of just more than year.

“It was really a group effort between both families,” says Georgann. “I did a lot of the base research, with some help from my mom, and then we’d bring everyone in on more of the final decisions. I received a few suggestions from friends, but we did a lot of our own research.”

The result was a fun-loving yet formal day, dressed up in deep purples and golds.

“We didn’t have a theme, I just really wanted to keep things simple, fun and memorable,” she says. “I knew I wanted all of the

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decisions to be intentional and meaningful, and I also wanted people to leave saying they had a great time. “

“I think my mom was the first to introduce the idea,” Georgann says. “I absolutely love popcorn.”

With a church service at St. John of the Cross and a reception at Ruth Lake Country Club in Hinsdale, the couple had the day they hoped for.

Bob agreed. While he said is favorite moment was watching Georgann walk down the aisle, he was quick to offer thanks to all the folks who played a role in the celebration.

“Ruth Lake was such an amazing venue,” she says. “It was such a memorable enjoyable experience. I loved was my dress and the fact that I had fresh gardenia flowers in my hair. All day people were telling me how good I smelled, and I think I will forever link that scent with my wedding day!

“Really, anything with any of our vendors was just fantastic,” he shares. “The decor at Ruth Lake, the food, the DJ, the cake–everything was just as perfect as it could be.”

“There was never a question in my mind if something would get done or if it would be done with detail and care. Honestly, things really just fell into place!”

One unique idea that came to fruition was a popcorn bar for reception guests during the evening. They served up buttered, caramel and cheese, and a chocolate drizzled kettle corn in clever containers that read, “Bob popped the question, Georgann said ‘Yes’.”

WEDDING GUIDE

“Every part of the day was exactly the way I imagined it or better,” Georgann adds. “It sounds so cliché, but all of the work and planning and thought we put into everything really paid off. “ But Georgann’s favorite part was a moment she hadn’t planned for, when her new husband offered a touching speech at the reception, dedicated to his love for his new bride.

“I’m really modest, and I’d never felt that much like a princess before,” she says. “Oh my goodness, I could go on and on.”

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Reception at Ruth Lake Country Club in Hinsdale Cake by Toni’s Patisserie in Hinsdale Popcorn from Kernel’s in Naperville Bridal Gown and bridesmaid dresses from Crystal Bride in Geneva Tuxedos from Men’s Wearhouse Flowers by The English Garden in Clarendon Hills Wedding jewelry

by Bella Cosa in Willowbrook Makeup by MAC in Oakbrook Photos by Ron McKinney

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WEDDING GUIDE

SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | MAY 2014 | 15

2

Encore!

Intimate second weddings offer personalized event

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W

hether you’re divorced or widowed, the decision to get married a second time is a big one, and your wedding can be just as exciting as the first.

Veronica Alexander, owner and event planner with Blue Ivy, shared these planning tips:

uThe don’ts In a time when many people are marrying more than once, very little is taboo when it comes to second weddings. Though there may be a stodgy aunt who clucks

WEDDING GUIDE

her tongue at a white dress or a sit-down dinner, a wedding should be whatever the couple wants it to be, according to Alexander.

A registry could be seen as tacky, and most brides don’t have bachelorette parties, she said. However, according to idotaketwo.com, an online guide to planning a second wedding, anything befitting the couple is fair game.

uThe trends One of the first things Alexander asks her clients about is the purpose of their celebration. While many younger couples

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your storybook wedding begins here

uThe classic wedding, revisited For the most part, the basic elements of the wedding day — dress, flowers, dinner, dancing —all are present in second weddings, according to Alexander.

“There are these classic elements that any woman wants, if they have that girly side to them,” she said.

The difference is in which elements are emphasized. Most second-time brides (or first-time brides who are older) won’t choose a big, flouncy dress and will opt to have only a bridesmaid or two. Couples may choose a small gathering of close friends and family at a restaurant instead of a large party in a hotel.

And for the most part, older and second-time couples will pay for the party themselves, rather than their parents pitching in.

“You’re going to want to bring in these traditional elements no matter what,” she said. “But are you going to do a garter toss when you’re 52? Probably not.”

uA personal touch While every couple personalizes their wedding to some degree, those who are marrying the second time around tend to plan their celebration a bit more thoughtfully, as they likely have different priorities than they did the first time, Alexander said.

“You want to show that you understand who you are and are united as adults,” she said.

Couples with children might opt to include them in the ceremony, symbolizing the union of not only the couple, but the family.

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are looking for a great party for their friends, those marrying for a second time tend not to want anything flashy, preferring instead to create a highly personalized experience. This also is true of older couples marrying for the first time, she said.

211 W. Front Street Historic Downtown Wheaton 630.462.0898 630.462.9988 fax www.suzettescreperie.com

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Elegance & Splendor Century Memorial Chapel is located at Naper Settlement, an outdoor history museum. This nondenominational chapel, built in 1864, features spectacular stained glass windows, classic architectural features, carved pews and seating for 175.

Couples who write their own vows tend to make them less lighthearted and funny than they might have the first time around.

“The older you become, the more intimate and fully considered the ceremony becomes,” she said. “It’s not about the party at this point.”

-More Content Now

630.420.6010 523 S. Webster St. Naperville, Illinois weddings@naperville.il.us www.napersettlement.org

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WEDDING GUIDE

SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | MAY 2014 | 17

You’ve got mail!

You’re In vi

ted

Printed wedding invitations remain standard, defying electronic trends

By STEPHANIE KOHL

W

ith the rise of email and use of the Internet to communicate, people are receiving fewer and fewer pieces of mail. But technology aside, there’s nothing like the feeling of receiving an unexpected piece of mail in your box, especially a beautiful wedding invitation.

Wedding planners agree that despite the rise of using email and the Internet to invite people to events, there remains a sense of tradition and formality associated with wedding invitations. So, while sending an Evite might be okay for your backyard barbecue, or last minute gathering, it should not be used for your wedding.

“Invitations for this kind of occasion, I think it’s nice to stick to mailing the invitations,”

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said Christine Stone, owner and wedding planner with Tying the Knot, 49 ½ S. Washington St., Hinsdale. “It’s a special way to invite people to a special occasion. It’s more formal, gets people excited and sets the tone for the event.”

Stone added that although wedding invitations shouldn’t be sent via electronic means, the Internet and email is a great source for inviting people to other events surrounding the wedding. Clients are also utilizing wedding websites, as a way to cut down on paper, while still communicating various information about the wedding.

When it comes to invitations, Stone said the trend is traditional and romantic. She is seeing lots of pretty cardstock, scripted fonts, lace, ribbon, and embossed and metallic papers.

WEDDING GUIDE

Ashley Killpack, owner of Ashley’s Custom Stationary and More, 22 S. Prospect Ave., Clarendon Hills, said brides coming into her shop are generally looking for a really classic, clean-looking invitation. While brides are opting for classic cardstocks, she is seeing some variety in fonts, like using color ink or accents.

“It is important to keep in mind how (the bride and groom) want to set the tone of the wedding by the invite,” Killpack said, adding when someone comes in for a consult with Ashley, they are drilled with questions to really determine the feel and tone of the wedding.

Tying the knot always educates people on the etiquette surrounding wedding invitations, like what should and should not be included.

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SEATING CHARTS BIG DAY BRIDE & GROOM place cards

HONOR AND CHERISH

RICE napkins

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dance!

Cake Forever

DECOR chicken dance

ThankYouNotes Love

& Always

Invitations

bouquet toss

I DO

rings Programs

LABELS give MENUS FLOWERS

Aways HAPPILY EVER AFTER table numbers Directional Signs

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“Limiting guest annoyance is probably the biggest factor,” Stone said.

To do so, she recommends giving guests as much information as possible, like not just the venue’s address, but the name of the room within the venue.

Things that really shouldn’t be included on the invitation include any way to convey that kids are not invited.

“It’s all in the addressing of the envelope,” Stone said.

Information on the expected dress code also should not be included on the invite.

Stone notes information on a childfree reception and dress code can be communicated via a couple’s wedding website, another growing trend.

There is lots to celebrate and Sass-N-Class has a wide selection of invitations perfect for any occasion. Bridal Showers, Rehearsal Dinner, Bachelorette Parties and albums for Wedding Invitations. If you have a Graduate this year, we have many invitations to kick start your celebration. We can custom print your invitations while you wait or help you special order the perfect Wedding Invitation. We also have unique gifts for your special occasion!

Start with a great first impression at

Sass-N-Class

19 W 1st St #A, Hinsdale 630/655-2420

Hours: Monday - Friday 10-5 and Saturdays 10-4. m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

WEDDING GUIDE

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SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | MAY 2014 | 19

Beyond the

PALE

Color, texture popping up as 2014 wedding gown trends Designer Carolina Herrera knows a thing or two about wedding fashion. When asked about one of her gowns, she remarked, “A wedding gown should make a woman feel feminine, elegant and alluring and allow the bride to express her individuality.”

No matter what her personal style is, a bride wants to stand out on her wedding day in a dress that’s suited to her personality, makes her feel comfortable yet beautiful, and makes her not only look great but feel terrific, too.

“Today’s brides run the gamut from those looking for traditional, timeless style to those who are more fashion-forward and want a more cutting-edge look,” said Michele Von Plato, David’s Bridal’s senior vice president of product development and design.

Color

While traditional is always in, this year’s brides are also taking more

FASHION & BEAUTY

risks and stepping out in color, Von Plato said. White and its variations are top sellers, but sales of colored wedding dresses are at about 5 percent, said Von Plato.

“Sales have doubled every year since 2010,” she said.

Brides are walking down the aisle in gowns in pinks from blush to shocking, smoke and silver, lilac, buttercup yellow, mint or seafoam green, baby blue and jewel tones.

Not willing to go all the way with color, other brides accent their look with a sash in a hue that coordinates with the bridesmaids’ dresses. One of the newest looks is a “multi-colored embroidery on organza with two-layers of embroidery on the skirt that adds a depth of color,” Von Plato said.

Lace

A huge trend for 2014, lace offers surprising diversity.

“There’s a lace for every customer

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- from modern to vintage to traditional to color,” Von Plato said. Bringing lace up to the minute are designers who use metallic finishes for an opulent, luxe look, Von Plato said.

Strapless, sweetheart necklines - “the meat and potatoes of necklines,” according to Von Plato -- are a conventional choice for a wedding gown, but the trend toward illusion necklines is surging. Sophisticated yet sexy, illusion necklines can be subtle or eye-catching statements with intricate lace, crystal and other embellishments.

Covering up has caught on since Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, walked down the aisle at Westminster Abbey in long sleeves with intricate lace appliques in 2011. The look “works for many brides of different religions and also those who want to cover up a little bit,” Von Plato said.

Designers have responded with sleeves in all lengths, from teeny caps to fitted points that brush the wrist or top of hand. Bodices with lovely, covered-up backs are also popular with many brides who chose decorative elements such as lace-ups and alluring lines of buttons to add visual interest.

Covering up Wearable, flattering and en vogue on bridal and fashion runways, peplums provide a little extra tummy coverage for some and add curves for others, Von Plato said. Peplum done in a high-low that is shorter in front then gradually longer in the back is a fun, up-to-date look.

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Jackets, which used to be for covering up and keeping warm, are often now wore as accessories, Von Plato said.

Boleros, shrugs and wraps can be simple or ornate with beading, fur, sequins and floral embellishments. “It’s another way to make the dress unique,” she said.

No matter what a bride chooses, don’t forget the veil, Von Plato said. “It’s what makes you a bride.”

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SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | MAY 2014 | 21

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Christos Taltsidis is a native of Greece, a Master Furrier, and owner of Christos Fur Salon in Westchester. He specializes in taking older furs and refurbishing and redesigning them in to modern and fashionable pieces of wearable art.

Editor Sherri Dauskurdas took some time to chat with Christos about his shop and his career.

DAUSKURDAS: What is the history of Christos Fur Salon?

How long has the shop been operating and how long have you personally, been a part of the fur business?

TALTSIDIS: The shop has been here 10 years, but I have been in the business since I was 12 years old, working for a furrier back in Greece.

Everyone in family thought I should go into show business. But I wanted to be a fur artist. I started sweeping flowers and bringing bread to the boss’s family for their lunch. It was hard, because they needed an errand boy and my goal was to learn how to sew. It wasn’t until I was 14 or 15 that they put me on a machine, and even then they gave me newspapers to sew with no needle!

Soon I was sewing mink sections. At age16 I came to Chicago. Even then, in 1977, there was a shortage of furriers. So I went into the building at State and Lake streets where all the fur manufacturing was located, and I worked for every leading furrier in Chicago. I wanted to learn the best from every fur shop.

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Beauty Basics with Doreen Salo

Give your nails a hand, with the right kind of care Need the proper advice to keep nails and cuticles healthy? First off, let’s talk about what nails and cuticles really are:

Photo by Jason Adrian Photography

DAUSKURDAS: What is involved with becoming a “master furrier”?

TALTSIDIS: To be a master furrier you have to know how to make a new mink coat, how to make your own patterns. Clients come to me and I revamp all those coats. I make my own. I am not a dealer.

I redesign–bigger, smaller, longer. You’d be shocked and surprised what you can achieve.

DAUSKURDAS: What are the latest trends in fur fashion, which customers can find at Christos?

TALTSIDIS: We do a lot of shearing, grooving and reversible (fur to leather) We make boleros, trim for wedding gowns and accessories, and even home fashions. Anything with a surface, Christos can make a pattern and cover it. The sky’s the limit!

DAUSKURDAS: You’ve been in one industry virtually your entire life, since childhood. Do you still love it as much as you did in the early years?

Protein is the building block which makes up the body. Nails are made up of hard protein called keratin.

Your cuticles are the piece of skin that overlaps the hard nail and touches the lunula, that white crescent shape at the base of your nail. Your cuticles play an important part, providing a protective cover for the tissue from which new nails grow.

In order to have healthy, strong nails you must have healthy cuticles. Regularly scheduled professional manicures will help achieve this, but you also should do some at-home maintenance.

Weekly, soak your fingers in warm soapy water to soften the nails and cuticles. After softening, gently push back cuticles with an orangewood stick. Never trim your cuticles. Leave that to the professionals.

Remove hangnails with a manicure scissors.

Pulling or biting off hangnails can lead to infections, almost always beginning at the cuticle. Common symptoms are white spots or any discoloration on the nail. Another sign of infection is when the finger nail separates from the nail bed, which is called onycholysis. If you have a nail infection or fungus you should seek the advice of a doctor.

Now, it’s time to really pamper your cuticles!

• Moisturize both cuticle and nail daily with cuticle oil.

• Wear gloves when possible while cleaning.

• Use sunscreen on hands and nail beds to prevent cuticles from sun damage.

• Don’t use nail products that contain formaldehyde or toluene.

• Use non-acetone polish remover.

• Don’t use your fingernails as a tool to pry things open.

• Drink plenty of water to hydrate your body.

• Eat right. Calcium and iron deficiencies can lead to unhealthy nails.

• And of course, don’t bite your nails. Its not only unattractive but can lead to infection.

When deciding which type of salon nail service is right for you, keep in mind that artificial nails such as acrylics or gels can create damage to your nail bed. This service should not be used if you only want your nails to look good for a few special days. I suggest acrylics or gels for long-term use only, or not at all. Regular basic manicures will keep nails and cuticles in great shape so this always is a good choice. Another healthy alternative are “Shellac Manicures”.

These non-damaging manicures will last up to two weeks.

Manicured nails always make a good impression and these guidelines will help you keep your hands looking great. But most importantly, they will provide you with the skills to achieve a lifetime of healthy, strong nails and cuticles.

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TALTSIDIS: When I was learning, the furriers used to give me a key and I would work until 1 a.m. After they left, I would take a tape measure and put it round my neck and look at myself in the mirror to see how I would look when my time came to go in the showroom. I’d say to myself.

“Christos…you don’t deserve it yet.” Now, here I am, and it’s getting more interesting as the years go by.

SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | MAY 2014 | 23

CAGO  CHI t.

Halsted S Ave. Western Cicero LaVergne Berwyn ve.

Harlem A Riverside op) d (Zoo St Hollywoo ld Brookfie Park Congress e Rd. La Grang ge ./La Gran Stone Ave Springs Western s Highland Hinsdale dale West Hins Hills Claredon t Westmon Ave. Fairview Main St./ Grove Downers Belmont Lisle e Napervill Route 59 ORA  AUR

Vicki Martinka Petersen enjoys taking long train rides through the western suburbs to her job as a media relations specialist for a health care association in Chicago. She believes Chicago isn’t the only fun destination along the train line and is sharing what the suburban train stops have to offer.

Ticket to Ride

By VICKI MARTINKA PETERSEN

Next stop, salon!

Surviving months of polar vortexes and seemingly never ending snow seems like a good reason to celebrate, with hope, the warmer days ahead. And if you endured countless rounds of train delays this winter due to frozen switches and hazardous weather conditions, that’s all the more reason to take a detour on the way home for a little pampering. Fortunately, there are plenty of salons along the train line to get you set for sandal and sundress season. uFirst stop – 46 South Salon and Spa in La Grange (south of tracks, 46 S. La Grange Road, www.46southsalonandspa.com).

If you think you need to live in New York or Los Angeles to enjoy a blow out bar, think again. I was very excited during a recent outing to downtown La Grange when I discovered this Aveda salon now offers a blow out bar.

The $22 fee includes shampoo, conditioner and blow out/style.

The best part? No appointments are necessary. As someone who has very thick hair and very thin patience for blow-drying my hair, I definitely plan to visit this salon next time I want my hair styled for a special occasion (or just because). uSecond stop – Zazu Hair Salon in Hinsdale (south of tracks, 18 E. Hinsdale Ave., www. zazusalons.com). Family owned since 1979, Zazu Salon’s flagship location in downtown Hinsdale boasts more than 80 technicians and 25 support staff in this two-story salon and day spa. In addition to hair services ranging from haircuts and highlights to

Keratin smoothing treatments and permanent waves, Zazu also offers a full range of spa services.

One spa service I always have wanted to try is a massage. Zazu offers five specialty massages: hot stone, lava shell, deep tissue, Swedish and prenatal (must be through first trimester).

Massages are available in 50, 80 and 110 minute increments. As a massage newbie, I think the 30-minute express revitalizer massage focusing on back, neck and shoulders would be a good place to start. Or if you’re looking for something new to try on date night, all massages are available for couples. uLast stop – Rocco & Rocco Salon and Day Spa in Downers Grove (south of tracks, 5127 Main St., www.myroccoandrocco.com).

Even though it’s been seven years since I worked in Downers Grove and I live in Aurora, I still get off the train on my way home to get my highlights and haircut at Rocco & Rocco.

Through the years, I also have come to enjoy Rocco & Rocco’s many spa services, especially the seasonal specials on organic manicures, pedicures and facials.

Every fall, I get an organic pumpkin spice facial that reminds me of pumpkin pie fresh from the oven.

In the summer, I enjoy the organic lemonage pedicure. Its citrus blend of lemon, lime and orange for healing and softening feels like a mini vacation…and it’s a great excuse for my husband to meet me, so I don’t have to wait for the train, and we enjoy a nice dinner before heading home.

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SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | MAY 2014 | 25

Well-suited It’s his day too, after all

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According to longtime formalwear expert Duane Baker of Louis for Men in Downers Grove, fit meets fashion in today’s hottest menswear trends.

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“It really goes back to a 1960s look,” Baker says. “We’re getting away from the oversized and baggy.

“Most fashionable is the two-button jacket, not the single. And a majority are notch collar or peak lapels,” he adds.

“There is a new direction in terms of color.

Brown tuxedos are becoming popular for fall weddings, and tan and light gray in spring and summer.

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Men’s trends, much like women’s tend to follow the celebrities, Baker explains.

“Traditionally Hollywood dictates fashion – from sportswear and business wear to formal wear. What we saw at the Academy Awards is now what we see in the shops.”

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Today, that means bow ties rather than long ties, a return to the cummerbund, and the reappearance of the Frank Sinatrafamed white jacket and black slack.

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Out of style for today’s weddings is the double-breasted jacket, and tails seem only to be a choice for proms, Baker shares. “But like all styles, it will come back again! And period weddings are becoming more and more popular, so you still see these styles show up where it is appropriate.”

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“Style is very important,” Baker advises, “but more important is what fits you the best,”

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hile most of the wedding day attention gets paid to the bride, the groom is in the limelight as well, and as such, menswear for the big day becomes an important choice.

SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | MAY 2014 | 27

More than just a party

Reception planning reflects the personality of the couple in their celebration

By YVONNE BENSON

T

he birds are chirping and spring is reminding us that this is the season when weddings are in bloom. Couples across our communities are preparing to launch their commitment with fanfare, friends and family.

Michelle D’Andrea at The Holiday Inn and William Tell Banquets in Countryside has been getting folks married for 14 years.

“I joke with [couples] that they’ve never been married before but I’m getting married every weekend.”

Karen Garlough at My Chef in Naperville says while online idea-sharing sites, like Pinterest, are growing in popularity for DIY wedding planning, she has her apprehensions.

“Pinterest makes everything look simple and beautiful, but it’s really not. It might take hours to put together… I would say to trust your caterer or your wedding planner because they have so much experience and they know what works and doesn’t work and what’s realistic and what isn’t realistic.”

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DINING & ENTERTAINING

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Another thing that’s really trending in weddings, D’Andrea said, is a country-theme or “natural” style. Items such as wildflowers, chalkboards, mason jars, twine, and candles create a homespun atmosphere, as opposed to the more traditional glitz and glamour.

“I had a bride who went out into a prairie and picked her own flowers and that’s what she made her centerpieces out of,” said D’Andrea. “It’s been brought down and is more comfortable.”

Favors, she adds, are becoming less popular.

“A lot of people don’t want to invest a lot of money into something that’s left on the table,” she says. “They choose a charity and they make a card and they say ‘In lieu of favors we made a donation to Paws of Chicago.’ It’s less stressful for the couple and it’s a set investment.”

As for food, Garlough says stations often are replacing the traditional sit-down dinners.

“What’s nice is the group mingles more, and you can get much more creative,” she explains. “You can have, for example, a burger bar with portabella mushroom burgers, tilapia burgers, and all kinds of creative burgers.”

Garlough adds couples are providing personal touches in their wedding menus.

“We’re seeing people incorporating regional favorites. It might not be the whole menu but maybe just a portion of it,” she says. “Say you’re from Philadelphia, then you might bring a Philly Cheese Steak sandwich as a late night snack.”

Some Chicago favorites can include a Chicago-style hot dog station or Italian Beef sandwiches. Those touches are being expressed in the drinks, too, Garlough says, “In terms of beverages, we’re seeing a lot of craft beer. That can be a regional favorite as well. From Wisconsin they might say ‘Hey – we want to bring some Spotted Cow.’” There’s not as much of an emphasis on a full bar as there once was, she says. “There’s more of a beer, wine, and soda bar with some really neat craft beers.”

D’Andrea says that while wedding planning can get stressful, it’s important to remember what the day is about.

“But it’s not about everyone else. It’s your day.

That’s where I see people going off the beaten path when it’s supposed to be a fun and happy moment. ” Garlough suggests delegation to reduce stress.

“Let’s say a big money saver is designing your own centerpieces. But centerpieces need to be done on the wedding day or the day before, and you are bound to run out of time. The brides will be in tears because they’re stressed out, and a wedding is stressful enough. If you’re going to do your own centerpieces, give that task away, maybe to your bridesmaids. Delegate those kinds of things.”

Budgets are stressors for a lot of couples, as well, D’Andrea says.

“Know what’s important to you and that’s where you invest your money,” she says. “If photography is something that’s important to you, then don’t go cheap on photography. You have to decide where to penny pinch.”

“A lot of things that I see about the stress level is that it’s not the couples, themselves, but the pressure from everyone else,” she explains.

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SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | MAY 2014 | 29

FOOD

AND Friendship with Chef Nadia Tilkian

MOTHER’S DAY TREAT: Cast Iron Pancakes This Mother’s Day that special Mom in your life is in for a delectable surprise! This mouth-watering recipe for Cast Iron Pancakes will make Mom’s morning memorable and start the celebration right. Crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, treat Mom to the best homemade pancakes she’ll ever have.

• 1 cup flour • 1/3 cup sugar • 2 tsp baking soda • 2 tsp baking powder • ¾ cup 2 percent milk

T

• 2 eggs • 1 tsp vanilla • ½ cup egg whites • ½ cup heavy cream

o begin, whisk the dry ingredients together. Whisking not only combines and distributes the ingredients evenly; it also aerates the flour into a nice light and fluffy texture. Add the eggs, milk and vanilla to your dry mixture and whisk until the consistency is smooth.

Next, whip the egg whites until you get stiff peaks. When you remove the whisk, the resulting peak should point straight up without collapsing at all, and the consistency of the mixture will be thick and heavy. Be careful not to overdo it, though – if you go too far, the whites will turn dry, losing their glossy sheen and start to pull apart.

Fold the egg whites into the pancake mixture. Keep in mind, you have just whipped air into the egg whites and you want to keep as much of that air in there as possible.

Fold gently, running a spatula along the bottom of the bowl and then up and over the batter. It will take a bit of patience to get everything mixed, but you’ll love the light fluffiness this adds to your final dish. Next, whip the heavy cream again until you reach the stiff peaks stage and then gently fold into your batter.

Once your batter is ready, heat a five-inch cast iron pan with a little corn oil and butter to coat the bottom of the pan. Add ¾ cup of your batter to the pan and bake at 350 degrees for 10 to 15 minutes. To check progress, insert a toothpick and if it comes out clean, the pancake is ready. To remove the pancake, simply turn the pan upside down. This recipe makes 10 pancakes, so there will be plenty for everyone. Delicious with Mom’s choice of butter and syrup, jam, marmalade, or even caramelized apples, these pancakes are scrumptious just served plain!

Here’s a time saver: Mix the batter, minus the egg whites and heavy cream the night before and store in the fridge until the morning.

pNadia Tilkian is the executive chef at Waterleaf restaurant on the campus of Glen Ellyn’s College of DuPage. A former Clarendon Hills restaurant owner, Chef Nadia's culinary resume includes experience at Chicago locations Bistro 110 under Chef Glenn Wielo and Zinfandel, as well as service as a sous chef and chef de cuisine at the Zagat-rated Barrington Country Bistro.

30 | MAY 2014 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

Of course, for an even more memorable day, skip the kitchen (and the cleanup) and join us at Waterleaf for our exquisite three-course prix-fixe Mother’s Day brunch celebration.

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FamilySTYLE For older couples and second weddings, children play role in the event

By ALLISON HORNE

T

wo of the most significant of life’s relationships are with our spouse, and with our children. And with second marriages on the rise and pregnancies before marriage becoming more common, blended families are become increasingly relevant in today’s society.

There are so many factors to consider when blending together two established families—How are the kids going to factor into the wedding? What is the best way to explain what is going on to them?

Each family and situation is different, but there are many ways to ease into creating a blended family that makes it easier and more enjoyable for everyone.

COMMUNICATION FACTOR From the beginning, before a wedding even is considered or planned, communication should always be a key aspect in the relationship between parents and their children.

“Communication is one of the most

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FAMILY IN FOCUS

important things, especially so that the kids know what is going on and what the new situation is going to be,” Jennifer Logston, MSW, LCSW, therapist at Fox Valley Institute, says. “Communication will help to reduce stress and gives them an understanding.”

Even while they are dating, a parent should be communicating with their own child throughout their relationship about what they think about their significant other and how they feel about it moving further.

“A wedding should never be a surprise to a child,” she adds.

More often than not, children will have mixed feelings regarding the relationship, and will be resistant and hesitant about their parent remarrying. But Logston doesn’t recommend asking a child for permission—rather, just letting them know how the new situation will be.

“Of course you want to say, ‘what do you think of this person,’” Logston says. “But asking ‘is it okay with you if I get married again?’ gives the wrong amount of control to a child.”

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When the time comes to actually tie the knot, it is important to factor in how the children and other blending family members want to be involved. Many opt for their children to stand up for them, or even be a part of the ceremony as an usher or flower girl.

“You really have to be careful to honor where the child is at with the situation,” Logston says. “The blending of a family is not to replace, but to add another person who loves them.”

Family blending ceremonies also have become increasingly popular, with parents often using a sand or candle ceremony to signify a united family. Logston also has worked with families where the children have been a part of the proposal, which can be great for all members involved.

POST-NUPTIALS When the ceremony is over, the work doesn’t stop there. Parenting and discipline is a huge part of blending families that needs to be taken into consideration during the process.

“Parents really need to talk ahead of time and understand whether they are going to parent similarly, differently, or discipline each other’s children,” Logston says.

Essentially, kids need to go into the new situation knowing whom they will be disciplined by and whether or not both parents will give out chores and punishments. The choice is completely up to the parents, and Logston recommends doing whatever works for each situation.

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“Easing into it might be the best way, erring on the side of disciplining your own children but doing it with support from the other spouse,” she adds. “Resentment can come in pretty quickly, especially the whole ‘you’re not my dad, you’re not my mom’ talk.”

Every problem or difficult situation that arises can be settled pretty quickly, as long as both parents keep an open line of communication and are there to support both sides of their blended family.

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FAMILY IN FOCUS

SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | MAY 2014 | 33

SORRY, MOM. I call my mom for a lot of things.

I call her when I can’t remember what temperature to cook a meatloaf, how to get stains out of silk and to see if she can babysit the kids. But every so often, it is absolutely necessary to call her to simply say, “I’m sorry.”

These apologies often arrive some 30 years after the original offense, but I am certain she is just as happy to receive them now, accepting them with great satisfaction. Here are a few examples:

1. MEDICINE After tirelessly chasing my son around the house in an effort to catch him and force cough medicine down his throat, during which I actually break a sweat, bruise my shin running into the coffee table and step barefoot on a Lego, I eventually tackle the 55-pound 4-year old, wrap him in a blanket and get the medicine in him. Before even breathing a sigh of relief, he regurgitates the red syrup up and out, all over the front of my shirt. I know my mom had to wrap me in a blanket at least a dozen times and I’m sure I puked up St. Joseph’s chewable aspirins at least half of those occasions. For that, I am eternally sorry.

34 | MAY 2014 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

2. NAPS After having tried to get the kids to nap not only because they needed it, but more because I needed it, only to find them talking to themselves or their stuffed animals for a solid hour. Then, watching them fall asleep in their mashed potatoes at dinner, and subsequently wired until midnight because of their evening nap. I apologize for my own napping inconsistencies, which led to mashed potatoes up my nose later that day, and Johnny Carson with Mom that night.

3. TANTRUMS

Following, more times than I can even count, a temper tantrum in any given store over a toy that one of my children wanted me to buy. (Heck, they can even find something in the Fedex/ Kinkos store to instigate a temper tantrum. My own offense, I recall, was going ballistic over one of those baby doll bottles … the ones that you tip over and the “juice” or “milk” disappears. I may have cried so hard I threw up. Mea Culpa, mea culpa, mea maxima, mea culpa.

4. PRIVACY For all those times the kids have walked in on me while on the toilet, I recall the days I would follow my own mother to the bathroom the

FAMILY IN FOCUS

minute she got home from work, and sit outside the bathroom door asking when she’d be out. I guess at least I didn’t barge in on her as mine have done, so for that you are welcome, but I’m still sorry.

5. REPETITION I’m sure there are days when my mom wishes I would call her more, but for all those days when I said her name ad nauseam, double sorry. One for not calling her more often and one for all those, “Mom. Ma. Mommy. Mom. Ma. Mommy.

Momma. Ma. Hey, Ma! Mom’s”

6. WHINING The whining. Oh, the whining!!! I know I was a champion at this skill and am getting my payback two-fold. I suppose it would be appropriate to tip my glass of wine that I have poured at the end of a long week of whining and say, “Cheers! And I’m sorry.”

7. ANXIETY

My kids aren’t even teenagers yet and I have an anxiety attack dropping them off at birthday parties for kids in their class that I don’t know very well. So for all those nights as a teenager or in my early 20s while I was living under her roof and didn’t respect the fact that she worried

m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

about me 24/7, especially when I was out “gallivanting” with my friends and didn’t call to check in, I’m sorry.

8. HOMEWORK

I sat down to do math homework with my daughter last night and 10 minutes in she was in tears over presenting three methods of writing 56 cents. Been there, done that.

Sorry, Mom.

9. SOCKS

For all the times we are racing to get out of the house and that fateful moment when “putting on socks” takes place. I have passed along my obsession with socks, how they feel, whether or not they match and whether the seam is lined up correctly across my toes. I know you thought dressing me in the morning would be a breeze if I went to private school and wore a uniform … but I proved you wrong, oh so wrong. What can I say? Again, I’m sorry, all the way down to the seam of my sock. adno=S0241185

Not only am I remorseful, but I’ll even admit she was right. She told me some day I would understand, and now I do. More importantly, I also want to say, “Thank you.” Before I had children of my own, I had no idea how much she loved me.

Write This Down with Michelle Stien

Michelle Stien is a stay-at-home mom of two children, ages 4 and 6. Her mother always told her to “write this down,” so she is sharing her experiences with other suburban women to help them deal with the craziness of being “Mom.”

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FAMILY IN FOCUS

SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | MAY 2014 | 35

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Burgeoning

Burr Ridge

By TOM WITOM

Once a little known village of Harvester, west suburban Burr Ridge has become a bastion of shopping and dining, beautiful houses and expansive parks in a community more than 11,000 residents call home.

But even while some 150,000 cars pass through its borders each day, Burr Ridge has grown “under the radar,” something Mayor Mickey Straub says he intends to change.

Raising the level of visibility during the village’s transition from bedroom community

to destination spot could take some doing, the 26-year resident concedes.

The business tycoons, entertainment celebrities and sports notables who dwell here cherish their privacy and generally don’t seek to attract attention.

“At the same time,” Mayor Straub says, “we have so many resources that people are unaware of. For example, within our seven square miles are 450 diverse businesses representing a microcosm of America.

“I call it the 4-3-2-1 village, because we count four churches, four school districts, three park districts, three high school districts, two counties and two fire departments all in a single village.”

One move designed to build name recognition saw Burr Ridge secure a state grant to provide enhancements to a major reconstruction project involving the County Line Rd. bridge that crosses the Interstate-55. Doug Pollock, Community Development Director, says by the end of the year each corner of the rebuilt bridge will display the Burr Ridge logo.

New commercial and retail enterprises

continue to boost the town’s stature.

Pollock cites the opening in February of a Chase Bank facility, along with other recent arrivals: Red Mango, a frozen yogurt shop; and two women’s clothing stores, J. Jill and Francesca’s.

Scott M. Rolston says the mixed-use Burr Ridge Village Center, where he is vice president-general manager, has been stable since its opening in November 2007. The center is occupied by 30 national retailers, among them Loft, Eddie Bauer, Banana Republic, Chico’s and Victoria’s Secret.

“Burr Ridge also has some upscale restaurants but nowhere for moms with strollers to go for a casual meal. Finding such a tenant is high on our priority list,” Rolston says.

The center also includes 196 condominiums, with only one remaining to be sold.

He says the village’s four largest employers – textbook publisher McGraw-HIll, heavy equipment manufacturer CNH Industrial N.V., Loyola Center for Health and Dove Bar maker M&M/Mars Inc. – continue to thrive.

–Continued on page 38

Photos by Jason Adrian Photography

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HOME & LIFESTYLE

SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | MAY 2014 | 37

Character. Comfort. Collaboration.

–Continued from page 37

KRISTIN PETRO I N T E R I O R S ,

I N C .

Community involvement in Burr Ridge remains strong, complementing the shopping, dining and recreational opportunities which abound. Janet Kowal, the village’s special events coordinator, highlights some of the major activities lined up for the year: } Armed Forces Day. The ceremony, at 10 a.m. May 17, takes place at the site of the Veterans Memorial (7660 County Line Rd., adjacent to the Village Hall). The keynote speaker, Lt. Col. (Retired) Terrence Benshoof from Glen Ellyn will speak. Antique and current military vehicles will be on site, and Marmion Academy military band from Aurora will perform, while the National Guard will provide the color guard presentation. Also planned is a special flyover to celebrate the holiday.

New this year will be a similar event, Run for Vets, scheduled for 9 a.m. July 27. Funds will go toward helping veterans in need, and signup will be at the Village Green. } Concerts on the Green. Free concerts at 7:30 p.m. every Friday June 6-Aug. 29 at the Burr Ridge Village Center are sponsored by the Burr Ridge Park District and Downtown Events Planning Committee. “It’s a kind of mini Ravinia,” says Kowal, noting that concert-goers provide their own blankets or lawn chairs, food and drink. Abba Tribute Band is scheduled for the season opener. } Farmers’ Market. Sponsored by the village and local park district, the weekly market starting June 12 will operate from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursdays on the Village Green. It will feature some 20 or more vendors selling everything from fruits and vegetables to cheese, flowers, baked goods, textiles and homemade soap. } 7th Annual Car Show. “Where Classics Meet Modern” is the theme of this event, held 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. June 22, at the Village Center. A free concert at noon will feature the Neverly Brothers, a rock ‘n’ roll group. Last year’s event attracted more than 125 classic, vintage and modern car participants.

38 | MAY 2014 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

From Inspiration to Execution.

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} “Run the Ridge.” This 10th annual event at 8 a.m. May 31, involves a 5k and 1k run and walk. Local NBC sports anchor Mike Adamle will emcee. Sponsored by Right Fit, the event benefits the Proactive Kids Foundation.

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King-Bruwaert House 6101 S. County Line Road Burr Ridge, IL (630) 230-9551 or (630) 230-9521 www.kingbruwaert.com adno=S0242260

HOME & LIFESTYLE

m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

Soak up the fun

Get ready for another great summer at Burr Ridge Village Center. Discover the season’s laid-back looks at a fantastic collection of stores. Indulge in a spa day, enjoy patio dining, take in a concert, and celebrate summer in style.

Pull up a blanket or lawn chair and join us for FREE Friday night concerts the whole family will enjoy.

June 6 - ABBA Tribute ABBA Salute

June 13 - Neil Diamond Tribute

July 4 - No Concert

Aug 8 - Country

Happy 4th of July!

Andrew Salgado

Denny Diamond Trio

Gr and Avenue Big Band

July 11 - Big Band

Aug 15 - Steely Dan Tribute

June 20 - Beatles Tribute

July 18 - R&B Variety

Aug 22 - Billy Joel / Elton John Tribute

June 27 Variety Dance Band

July 25 - Contemporary Variety

Aug 29 - Chicago Tribute

BritBeat

Libido Funk Circus

R Gang

Spoken Four

Reely Dan

Billy Elton 25 or 6 to 4

Aug 1 - Variety Cover Band Reckless Rock

7th Annual Classic Car Show

Treat your family to farm fresh goodness and support local growers too. Visit the Burr Ridge Market on the Green for fruits, veggies, flowers, herbs, baked goods and more.

Cruise in for a comprehensive display of classic, exotic and rare cars lining the streets of Burr Ridge Village Center.

Admission is free.

Visit www.ShopBurrRidge.com for details and updates on summer events.

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His& How to mesh personal styles into a home you’ll both adore

By STEPHANIE KOHL

It’s been said that opposites attract. And certainly, the differences in two people can balance a relationship. He likes working on the yard, you prefer cleaning the house.

He’s enjoys longer trips to the grocery store while you prefer quick errands at the bank and the post office and the dry cleaners.

But how can two people with differing personal styles blend those tastes into a home they both love and feel comfortable in? And what happens when he hates her antique dresser and she hates his couch?

“We deal with that all the time,” says Kristin Petro, owner of Kristin Petro Interiors in Elmhurst. “… Number one, each person, if possible, should probably have their own dedicated space in the house.”

Petro says designating a space where each person can put the stuff they love but their partner doesn’t, is

40 | MAY 2014 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

HOME & LIFESTYLE

a lifesaver. It allows the “offending” items to be kept out of the main sight and flow of the home.

“You can kind of contain it a little bit,” she says.

Oftentimes, when it comes to putting together a married home, both members of the couple are not going to have the same style. Petro says it is important to focus on what you want in terms of the feel of the space.

“Look through what the other person has and maybe there’s one or two things that can be combined,” Petro says. “Sometimes, when you widen your scope, you can mix the two (styles).”

Petro says if styles are too different, however, it is probably best to consult a professional. Professionals have an eye for balance, symmetry, proportion and bringing things together.

“We can come in and we are better at bringing them together than they are themselves, but it requires compromise on

m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

Spring, finally!!

Shop for a unique gift for that special mom in your life....or spring clean your gently used “stuff “ and donate it to the treasure house. one side or the other,” Petro says.

Petro added tying two people’s items together into one shared home is easier when both parties give and take.

Finding a color that can bridge mismatched colors and utilizing things like accent pillows, rugs, window treatments, fabrics and accessories, can go a long way in bringing a room together.

Petro also acknowledged that if a person has an item they really like that is sentimental, but doesn’t “go” with a room, to consider how it can be altered. Paint a piece, reframe a piece of artwork or reupholster a chair to give it new life and make it work in your married home.

As a couple starts their married life together, Petro says marriage gives a couple the chance to create something new and start fresh.

“Just embrace it,” Petro says. “A lot of people are hesitant to change, but most often, it only takes about a week to get used to it.”

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r e m Sum s t n e Ev

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42 | MAY 2014 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

HOME & LIFESTYLE

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omething about spring seems to inspire us to lavish attention on our homes. Whether enthusiastically cleaning or freshening decor, Americans seize spring as an opportunity to breathe new life into interior spaces. For sheer spring-like impact it’s hard to beat decorating with light.

Incorporating light into interior design can go far beyond a few strategically placed, attractive lamps and some upgraded overhead lights. It’s possible to use both natural and artificial lighting to complement other decor and architectural elements, and to create a brighter, upbeat mood that’s perfect for warm weather. Not sure where to begin? Here are a few concepts to keep in mind as you begin decorating with light:

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Lightening colors

Congratulations to the Women of Distinction!

Some hues absorb more light, making them appear darker which causes the room to look dark as well. Fresh paint brightens any room, but to amplify the effect, choose lighter, less intense colors such as pastel yellows, peaches and soft blues.

Don’t overlook energy efficiency when you’re revamping your artificial lighting. Spring is a great time to boost your home’s energy efficiency by replacing old, electricityguzzling incandescent light bulbs with energy-sipping CFLs and LEDs. While these bulbs may cost more to purchase, you’ll save money over their usable life. Energy.gov says these bulbs use 25 to 80 percent less energy than incandescents, and can last three to 25 times longer.

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HOME & LIFESTYLE

SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | MAY 2014 | 43

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Photos by Ron McKinney

By MELLISA RISKE

I

n 2012, Shaw Media and our sister publication, McHenry County Magazine, began a tradition of honoring those who have given their time and talents to create nonprofit organizations, head local advisory boards, volunteer at activities and businesses outside of their own workplace and, most of all, lead by example.

Soliciting nominations from community leaders, local business professionals and our own readership, we would find our communities full of inspiring women; teachers and nurses, entrepreneurs and advisors, artists and volunteers.

m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

This month, we will begin the tradition at Suburban Life Magazine, and honor 12 of the western suburbs’ most remarkable women for their contributions to community, career and cause, at the inaugural Women of Distinction Awards event.

We introduce our honorees here, and in each month that follows, tell the complete story of one of these outstanding local residents.

WOMEN OF DISTINCTION

SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | MAY 2014 | 45

workshops and consulting services focused on self-improvement, enhanced communication and improving interpersonal relationships.

ANNA WESELAK Lombard Weselak and Associates

A

nna Weselak makes time for her family, her consulting business and her community. Her career began in education. From 1997 to 1999 she served as president of the Illinois PTA and from 20052007 she served as president of the National PTA. She visited with children in classrooms across the country and talked with legislators at the U.S. Capitol regarding education issues.

In addition to her career she continues to dedicate time to serving others. She is a member of the board of the Three Fires Council of the Boy Scouts of America and leads the exploring steering committee focused on career awareness for youth. She is a charter member and president of Zonta International Oakbrook Club, which focuses on raising the status of women, worldwide. She is a member of Lombard Service League, the National Association for Women Business Owners, the American Society for Training and Development and a few local chambers of commerce.

Weselak and her husband, Kevin, have been married more than 40 years. They have two sons, one daughter and five grandchildren.

Today, her business, Weselak and Associates in Lombard, continues to be an ally for life education - providing customized seminars,

E

nergetic is a word used to describe Jennifer Rosato Perea, dean of the Northern Illinois University College of Law. She is in her fifth year as dean. In her tenure, she has worked hard to build the school’s reputation and success Her nominator wrote, “To listen to her speak on subjects so close to her heart or just watch her interact with alumni, students and business leaders at any one of the myriad of programs, formal and informal, that she so tirelessly promotes on behalf of the law school is to understand the source of her passions.”

JENNIFER ROSATO PEREA Naperville Dean of the Northern Illinois University College of Law

46 | MAY 2014 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

She is one of four Latina law school deans in the country. Though she often downplays her role as a pioneer, her nominator wrote, she demonstrates a keen awareness of the importance of her serving as a role model. As a law school dean, Rosato Perea is described as a mentor, counselor, leader and collaborative partner.

Rosato Perea’s mother emigrated from Managua, Nicaragua as a young woman. Her father worked in the steel industry. Though her parents were not college-educated, it was an important goal for her and her brother to attain a college education. Rosato Perea graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor’s degree and received her law degree from the University of Pennsylvania Law School.

She has been called a champion of promoting diversity and she has been recognized for her work to make the law and legal profession more accessible to the community. And while she sits at a peak in her profession, she shows no signs of slowing down. She has a daughter and is recently married.

WOMEN OF DISTINCTION

JOELYN KOTT Lombard The DuPage Community Foundation

J

oelyn Kott has found away to bring her wealth of experience from the public sector and make a difference in the nonprofit sector.

In 1989 Kott laid the ground work for a new position, the citizen service coordinator for the Village of Lombard. She answered citizen inquiries, created a quarterly village news letter, worked on the village’s cable television station, and developed the village website and social media programs. Her hard work and dedication allowed her to craft the position, which eventually became the communications and marketing coordinator position.

Throughout the years, she had a hand in many of the village programs and events, serving as coordinator for the Cruise Nights and Fourth of July parades as well as working with other civic and business groups. She helped form a support group for those like her in the marketing business to improve communications, share ideas and programming.

She now has brought her experience and energy to a new position with The DuPage Community Foundation, based in Wheaton.

There she serves as the communications and marketing coordinator.

Her nominator wrote, “We now get to watch her take another newly created position and have it soar to new heights and set herself apart and become known throughout the county as a woman of distinction.”

Additionally, Kott is an executive board member for the Tri-Town YMCA, a board member of the Glenbard East Boosters and a member of the Lombard Service League.

She is married with three daughters, one step-son and one step-daughter.

m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

PHYLLIS MUCCIANTI ADDISON Co-founder and vice president of Packaging Personified

I

t wasn’t success overnight. Through hard work and dedication Phyllis Muccianti of Addison has built a successful and thriving company.

F

inding the right words to describe Barbara Matt isn’t easy. Her nomination came for her work cofounding The Apraxia Connection, a nonprofit organization that unites families, educators, therapists and medical professionals with local resources while providing education and awareness of apraxia and associated disorders.

As a parent dealing with apraxia of speech, Matt saw the need to expand the support system for families facing this disorder. She even co-organized the first fundraising walk for the Childhood Apraxia of Speech Association of North America. The first walk had more than four times the expected participants. During the last three years the Apraxia Connection team has raised more than $100,000, while continuing to raise awareness.

Muccianti and her co-worker developed a vision for their business while sitting at her kitchen table in 1975. Together, they created Packaging Personified, and within four months it moved from her house into a business space. In 1980 the company found a new space in Carol Stream, complete with a manufacturing facility that included printing capabilities. In 2002 the company opened a second location in Michigan.

Matt’s work with The Apraxia Connection is just a small way to describe her work in the community. She is an educator for Community Consolidated School District 181 based in Hinsdale. Together with her husband and three sons, she dedicates her time to Boy Scout events, often lending a hand with food, decorations and other activities.

Through vision and hard work Muccianti and her business partner have created a thriving company that employs more than 200 people. Packaging Personified is a leader in its industry.

T

Beyond managing her company, Muccianti has found time to serve the community.

In 2010 she was recognized as nonprofit volunteer of the year for the West Suburban Philanthropic Network. For more than 25 years she has served on the board of Metropolitan Family Services DuPage and also served on CASA Italia, a group that helps others learn about the culture and contributions of Italian Americans. She received the “Impressa” award and the “Cardinal Bernadin Humanitarian Award” from the Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans, as well as “Business Woman of the Year from the Italian American Chamber of Commerce.

heresa C. Nihill began her career Metropolitan Family Services as a social worker, and through the years advanced through the ranks, building the program and assisting countless individuals. In 2007, after 21 years with the agency, she was named its executive director.

Through the years, her vision and leadership has resulted in collaborations that allow Metropolitan Family Services to better meet the needs of the community. In 2013 the agency partnered with DuPage Medical Group to care for seniors in need. More than 3,500 seniors living in DuPage County have received health screenings thanks to these programs. In 2011 Nihill lead the Metropolitan Family Services staff through a pilot program to address crisis and issues experiences by adoptive families. The successful program became the foundation of a statewide program. Throughout her tenure with the agency, she has helped the staff seek the resources it needs to serve the community, from the young to the old, from the homeless to families in crisis.

BARBARA MATT Westmont The Apraxia Connection

Additionally, she is president of the Westmont Junior High Parent Teacher Organization where she demonstrates her exceptional leadership skills and consensus building.

Matt’s nominator wrote, “Barbara Matt is truly an extraordinary woman, mom, educator and community leader who is long overdue for recognition on all of these fronts.”

Health Leadership Council for DuPage County, the DuPage Federation Board, the board of directors for Positive Parenting DuPage and the steering committee for WeGO Together for Kids community project in West Chicago. She is also a member of the National Association of Social Workers, the Autism Society of Illinois and Autism Speaks/Cure Autism Now. She is married with two daughters.

THERESA C. NIHILL West Chicago Executive director of Metropolitan Family Services DuPage

Nihill’s work in the community goes beyond her day job. She is active with the Mental

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WOMEN OF DISTINCTION

SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | MAY 2014 | 47

for people with vision loss, their friends and families.

GINA CUNNINGHAM-PICEK Woodridge Mayor of Woodridge

LEAH GERLACH Carol Stream Spectrios Institute for Low Vision at Deicke House

F

T

Elected mayor in April 2013, she previously served as a village trustee from 1999-2004 and 2009-2013. Additionally she has been a member of the Police Pension Board, the village’s Quality Community Task Force and Economic Development Commission. She was recognized for her work and named Woodridge Citizen of the Year in 1996.

For more than 20 years, she has worked at the Spectrios Institute for Low Vision, where her responsibilities range from running the technology department to working with new patients. Gerlach is a rehabilitative counselor at Spectrios, which means she is often the first person to great a new patient. She also facilitates two support and networking groups

Her dedication also extends as well into the business community. CunninghamPicek has worked in the banking sector in Woodridge for nearly all of her career, starting in the early 1980s. This year marks her 30th year in banking.

T

or Gina Cunningham-Picek, the title “Mayor of Woodridge” is, in many ways, just the latest in a long line of designations used to describe her dedication and service to the village.

She volunteers her time with the Rotary Club of Woodridge and has served as president for two, one-year terms. She is a member of the Woodridge Chamber of Commerce and served as president of the organization as well. She is active with St. Scholastica church, serving as a volunteer in several capacities, including work on the finance committee. Additionally she has served on the board of directors for the Woodridge Community Pantry since 2008. She is married with stepchildren and several grandchildren.

hough legally blind since birth, Leah Gerlach never has allowed her visual impairment to keep her down. She has made her life work to help others struggling with disabilities.

oday, she is the executive director of Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children of DuPage County, but her dedication to serving others and making a difference in her community stretches back more than 20 years and includes helping countless people.

In 2009, Drake joined the small staff at CASA which coordinates more than 150 volunteers and represents the best interests of 248 abused and neglected children in the county. In her role, Drake ensures an advocate is appointed to every child in need and the organization maintains solid

LISA DRAKE Wheaton CASA of DuPage County

48 | MAY 2014 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

WOMEN OF DISTINCTION

Technology plays an important role in the lives of people with low vision. As coordinator for the technology department Gerlach makes sure each patient at Spectrios knows about the spectrum of equipment available. She answers every question and never sends anyone away without proper training.

She also works with the Department of Human Services, where she provides training for individuals with visual impairments and serves as an advocate, helping those with vision issues find ways to remain in their current positions and working with employers to make accommodations.

Gerlach’s dedication extends to the young as well. She runs a summer camp for children with vision impairments. Additionally, she volunteers her time with state and local organizations, including serving as president of the Illinois Association of Education and Rehabilitation for people who are Blind and Visually Impaired.

financial footing.

Drake’s dedication to children began more than 20 years ago with the organization Big Brothers Big Sisters. She participated for more than five years as a Big Sister in the organization. Then, after becoming a mother herself, she became involved with Parent & Child Education Society, a nonprofit organization that offers lectures, playgroups and support activities for families of small children in DuPage.

Through the years she has served with many local organizations, from the Wheaton Junior Woman’s Club to the Wheaton Chamber of Commerce, where she was a director of membership and executive director. She lent support in creating the now popular, Taste of Wheaton. She has served with the Wheaton Chapter of Infant Welfare Society of Chicago and the DuPage County’s 100+ Women Who Care. She was a member of the DuPage Community Foundation’s Next Generations Initiative, and the DuPage Historical Museum Foundation Board of Directors.

Drake is the mother two sons, ages 16 and 15.

She can often be found on the golf range with her younger son, or volunteering with her older son’s Wheaton North Boys Lacrosse team.

m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

E

ven with a successful career, Yvonne Agnello-Adams knew there was something missing. As a child, Agnello-Adams faced many hardships, which hindered her development of strong social skills.

She battled her fears and went to seminars for professional development, but often found herself plagued by negative self-esteem. She wanted to make personal changes, but wasn’t sure how to do it or where to go.

While looking for a way to become a volunteer in her community, she found her answer. In 2003, she joined the Junior Chamber, also known as the Jaycees, as a way to meet new people and give back to the community.

Through her participation on projects, she began to improve her social skills and was able to become involved in the special training and personal development programs offered through the organization. She overcame her fear of public speaking and developed true leadership skills, even becoming a certified trainer.

A few years later, she carved a path for a new opportunity. She created YDAA & Associates, Inc., a company providing professional training

A

uthor, leader, executive and life coach and role model are just some of the ways Luz Canino-Baker is described in her nomination as a Woman of Distinction.

After thirty years as a business leader in corporate and non-profit sectors, Canino-Baker formed her own business, LNC Coaching, LLC. Through her business she offers executive/life/ retreat coaching, professional development workshops, and conferences for Latina women.

“Ms. Canino-Baker has a passion for seeing everyone perform at his or her full potential,” wrote her nominator.

Focusing her business on the growing area Latino population, she offers culturally based workshops and programs including the successful, annual Latinas On The Plaza™ Professional Development Conference for Latinas held in Lombard, Illinois.

She raised three young children alone while working at a bank and pursuing her undergraduate degree at DePaul and her MBA from the University of Chicago. This spring, she added “author” to her resume, publishing her first book, “Designing Your Life Plan” which helps the reader examine their life to realign

m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

YVONNE AGNELLOADAMS Lombard YDAA & Associates, Inc.

and coaching services to businesses and business professionals. She found a way to fulfill her true passion, helping others like her who needed to overcome emotional negativity and improve their social skills to achieve success.

While her new career means a great deal of travel, Agnello-Adams continues to volunteer with the Junior Chamber and was honored with an Illinois Jaycees Ambassadorship, the highest honor in the state-level organization, and a JCI Senatorship, the highest honor in the worldlevel organization.

their life with what they really want.

In addition to her business, Canino-Baker has served as a leader for local and national organizations. She served as the managing director of programs and marketing for the Hispanic Alliance for Career Enhancement (HACE). She is the founder of the Mujeres de HACE, a national leadership cohort based program that has graduated more than 250 Latina leaders. She is also an adjunct professor at DePaul, National-Louis, Benedictine, and Lake Forest Graduate School of Management.

LUZ CANINOBAKER Clarendon Hills LNC Coaching, LLC

WOMEN OF DISTINCTION

ADRIAN MARY CHARNIAK Riverside Trinity Community Church

T

he nomination of Adrian Mary Charniak comes in two important areas, her work with her church and her fight for the rights of grandparents.

Charniak is an active member of the National Committee of Grandparents for Children’s Rights. In addition to her volunteer work, she has served on the state board of the group and has worked with other coordinating task forces.

After meeting her grandson, Joey, she realized instantly that her role of being a grandmother would be quite different than she had envisioned. Charniak said she understood the boy’s parents would not be able to care for him and she made it her focus to become his guardian. The retired office worker soon realized the challenges in seeking guardianship and how grandparents lacked legal rights.

Through the years she has worked tirelessly to educate herself and others about the legal and financial hurdles that face grandparents who are seek guardianship of grandchildren.

She has attended rallies, traveled to Washington, D.C., to meet with congressmen and senators, and has spoken at many events.

Charniak’s fight for grandparents brought her back to her local church where she worked with pastors and the board to develop a new ministry in 2009, the Gift of Hope, Grandparents and Others Raising America’s Children. The group offers support, education, and networking programs.

For more than 33 years, Charniak has been an active member of Trinity Community Church, serving on various boards and helping wherever needed. She has coordinated funeral luncheons and directed holiday activities. She is also a co-founder of the Red and Wild Ladies of Trinity, an intergenerational group for women.

SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | MAY 2014 | 49

of WOMEN distinction

ORDER YOUR TICKETS TODAY! Suburban Life Magazine 2014 Women of Distinction Awards Luncheon Date: Time: Location: Price:

Thursday, May 8, 2014 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Waterleaf Restaurant, Glen Ellyn, IL $40 per ticket

!

T U O D L SO

Order online at suburbanlifemagazine.eventbrite.com or call 630-427-6217 by May 1.

This year’s winners are: Adrian Mary Charniak - Co-Chair, Board of Mission & Witness, Trinity Community Church, UCC

Lisa Drake - Executive Director, CASA of DuPage County Luz Canino-Baker - Founder and President, LNC Coaching Leah Gerlach - Rehabilitation Counselor/Assistive Technology Specialist/

Support & Learning Group Facilitator, Spectrios Institute for Low Vision at Deicke House

Theresa Nihill - Executive Director, Metropolitan Family Services DuPage Barbara Matt - Co-Founder and Board of Directors, The Apraxia Connection Jennifer Rosato Perea - Dean & Professor of Law, Northern Illinois University College of Law

Joelyn M. Kott - Communications/Marketing Coordinator, The DuPage Community Foundation

Phyllis Muccianti - Co-Founder and President, Packaging Personified Gina Cunningham-Picek - Mayor, Village of Woodridge Anna Weselak - Owner, Weselak and Associates Yvonne Agnello-Adams - President, YDAA & Associates, Inc. Presenting Sponsor

Valerie A. Janke, CFP® Financial Advisor Sean Curtis Licensed Advisor Associate Waddell & Reed, Inc.

Major Sponsors

The Women of Distinction Award will be presented to twelve women who live or work in Chicago’s western suburbs.

If you are unable to order tickets online, please call 630-427-6217 for assistance.

Sorry, no refunds.

Sponsors

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WHITE DRESS... Yellow Teeth?

Wedding season is around the corner and at our office, this usually means a rise in cosmetic procedures. Whether you’re the bride or groom, or if you are simply a participant or a guest, having a bright beautiful smile is now back on the priority list. There are many paths to a whiter smile, some are easy and inexpensive, while others can put a bit of dent in the pocketbook.

THE RIGHT WHITE The simplest thing you can do for a whiter smile is to get a professional cleaning at your dentist.

Oftentimes the yellowing we see on our teeth is simply superficial staining that has built up over time. A good cleaning and polishing usually will result in an immediate lightening of your teeth. Follow up your fresh new smile with the purchase of a mechanical toothbrush. There are several brands of electric toothbrushes out there, as long as they come with a wall charger, and are not just battery operated, they should work much better than a manual brush to maintain your healthy smile.

Teeth whitening procedures have become commonplace and prices have come down significantly. Everyone’s teeth tend to whiten at different rates however, so some products may work for you while others may seem like they accomplish nothing. Over-the-counter whitening products are effective, but tend not to give you that “wow” factor. Also the results usually fade pretty quickly. The most effective and long-lasting method of whitening is consistent at-home whitening with custom trays made by your dentist. Follow that up with an in-office whitening treatment and you have a recipe for bright beautiful teeth!

SMILE, WITH STYLE On a scale of 1-10 how do you rate your smile? Is there something about your smile that you would like to change that you’ve simply never had the motivation to take care of? Maybe you have one crooked tooth that has been an eyesore, or possibly some minor spacing or crowding of your teeth that always has bothered you. Get a cosmetic consultation with your dentist. Perhaps you can correct that problem with some easy to wear removable orthodontic aligners, or possibly enhance your smile with porcelain veneers. Both options can result in amazing results, achieved in a very small amount of time.

If you are helping to organize a wedding, remember the bride and groom are not the only ones in the spotlight. People are looking very closely at the mother and father of the bride and groom as well as any one else taking a prominent role. It may be a hard conversation to have, but if you notice something obviously wrong with their smile: a missing tooth, a dark spot that may be a cavity, you should definitely let them know. Trust me, they’ll thank you later when they see how beautiful their pictures turned out!

EARLIER IS BETTER You never want to wait until the last minute to get that check up. If the dentist finds a problem that needs to be remedied, getting in early is always a better way to go. Fixing a cavity may not take very long, but if more extensive work is needed you definitely don’t want to wait until the week of the wedding to get it fixed. The last thing anyone wants is to be miserable with tooth pain on their wedding day.

see your dentist well before you leave. You don’t want to be forced to seek out a dentist in an area you are unfamiliar with. Depending on where you go, the quality of care may not be at the standard you are used to, which can make for some rather difficult and uncomfortable decisions about your dental care.

FIND A DENTIST WHO MAKES YOU SMILE Finally, if you are getting married soon and if you are not totally satisfied with your dentist, this is the best time to look for one that you can keep for the long haul. Maybe your fiance loves their dentist. Consider switching, so you can both be seen at the same practice. Does your dentist see children? If you plan on starting a family, this suddenly becomes a pertinent question. Just as you are making an important decision about who you’ll be spending the rest of your life with, it’s also important to use this moment to plan out other aspects of your life. Medical, dental, financial, professional, all of these parts of your life now should be considered with your future family in mind.

Saqib H. Mohajir DMD, FADIA

Dr. Mohajir is a member of the American Dental Association, Illinois State Dental Society, Chicago Dental Society and is a Fellow of the American Dental Implant Association. He maintains a private practice in Lemont, Illinois.

Which brings us to the honeymoon! If you plan on going out of town or out of the country, go

Pinewood Dental

15884 W. 127TH ST., STE. D | LEMONT, IL | (708) 364-0641 | WWW.PINEWOODDENTAL.COM

©

GO RED

for women

BREAKFAST 2014 Thursday, May 8

Maggiano’s at Oakbrook Center for more information or to purchase tickets visit

SuburbanChicagoGoRed.org locally sponsored by

©2013, American Heart Association. Also known as the Heart Fund. TM Go Red trademark of AHA, Red Dress trademark of DHHS.

DENIS HAGEN | Wheaton “STANDING FIGURES WITH BIRDS” DIGITAL PHOTO COMPOSITE Eight digital photos were combined to make this image. The photo composites are intended as visual exploration, and all of them are experiments. Unlike most composites, whole photos are combined, not just parts.

The challenge is to find interesting ways to combine them- not necessarily knowing what’s going to happen in advance. There is no concern for categories, concepts or series. The only consideration is the end result. Digital photo manipulation has been a fresh method of visual discovery, resulting in shapes, textures and color combinations that would not be considered otherwise. There is always the surprise of discovery, the search for something unique, and the irony of making photos that may not eventually resemble photographs.

An award-winning advertising agency art director and creative director, Denis’ work has been shown in photo competitions from Wheaton to California, Vermont, Minnesota, Kentucky and Lishui, China, and can be found in private collections.

Clothing and Yoga Wear Accessories • Jewelry • Candles • Soaps & Lotions

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Photo of artist by Charles A. Kacin, manipulated by Denis Hagen To submit an entry to Artist Showcase, email artwork, title of piece, name and village of residence of artist, a two- to three - sentence description of the piece, short bio and artist photo to SuburbanLifeMagazine@shawmedia.com, subject head “Local Artist Submission.”

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SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | MAY 2014 | 57

scene suburbs around the

58 | MAY 2014 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

OUT & ABOUT

m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

Guests enjoyed an evening of Venetian fanfare at the Magic of Carnevale Gala, to support Family Shelter Service, held at the Abbington in Glen Ellyn.

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OUT & ABOUT

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SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | MAY 2014 | 59

Join the Rotary Club of Downers Grove in celebrating

A True Community Event Village lot adjacent to D.G. Public Library

Both Warren & Burlington Avenues

Entertainment & Beer Garden Rock & Pop Music

Thursday Night:

M A I N S TA GE SPON SORED BY

Main Stage opens at Noon on Saturday & Sunday.

Friday:

Midway & Carnival

Jet Black Comedy 5:00 – 6:30 p.m.

Jin and Tonic Band 7:15 – 8:45 p.m.

7th Heaven 9:30 – 11:00 p.m.

“Sneak-a-Peek” for $23 Unlimited Ride Night 5:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Friday & Saturday: Noon - 11:00 p.m.

Sunday: Noon - 10:30 p.m.

Last BLast UnLimited Rides sUnday noon - 4:30 foR $23 Main Street, RR Tracks to Curtiss St.

Food & Business Expo Friday & Saturday: Sunday:

Saturday: R-Gang

5:00 – 6:30 p.m.

Billy Croft & 5 Alarm 7:15 – 8:45 p.m.

Evolution 9:30 – 11:00 p.m.

Unli FRIDA m Y rid ited k Nooes for $ iddie n - 4 18 p.m .

Noon - 11:00 p.m.

Noon - 10:30 p.m.

Sample the best of food and business vendors along Main Street!

Fishel Park, West of Main on Grove St.

Craft Show Sunday:

American English 4:30 – 6:00 p.m.

Epic 6:45 – 8:15 p.m.

Maggie Speaks 9:00 – 10:30 p.m.

Saturday: Sunday:

9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Hosted by the Downers Grove Junior Woman’s Club Main Stage - Village Lot near Library

Folk & Blue Grass Music

Community Worship Service

F ISH E L PA R K S TA GE P R ES ENTED BY Two Way Street Coffee House & Plank Road Folk Music Society

Saturday ONLY: All Performances

9:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m.

Each act will perform twice.

Visit www.rotarygrovefest.com for full entertainment lineups and Rotary GroveFest event updates.

Sunday MORNING:

10:45 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.

Warren Avenue, north of RR tracks

Festival of Cars Sunday ONLY: 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

(Festival of Cars runs rain or shine.)

June 19th-22nd, 2014 Downtown Downers Grove

a ! e w m No co or Be ons Sp

Thursday through Sunday

www.RotaryGroveFest.com

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Summer Classes begin in July

m y s u b u r b a n l i f e . c o m /m a g a z i n e

Fully stocked dance boutique for boys & girls for all your shopping needs and wants. Exclusive ADC logo items.

Last chance to get in classes for Fall 2014 Session.

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Call for summer information & schedules and competitive team audition information.

OUT & ABOUT

SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE | MAY 2014 | 61

MAY EVENTS In The Suburbs Bank and the Wounded Warrior Project. Event includes the 5K run/walk, Little Groovers kids races and the new Warrior Challenge. Registration fees vary by event. For more information and to register, visit sites.google.com/ site/groovininthegrove5K/home.

MAY 15 THROUGH 18 – TASTE OF GLEN ELLYN, various locations in downtown Glen Ellyn This family-friendly event features live entertainment, The Village Fair with rides, craft festival and business expo.

Enjoy dishes from local restaurants and vendors. Free admission. For more information, call 630-469-0907 or visit www.glenellynchamber.com.

MAY 17 AND 18 – BEAR AWARENESS WEEKEND, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Brookfield Zoo, 1st Ave. and 31st Street in Brookfield.

Join animal care staff and volunteers and become acquainted with the bears at Brookfield Zoo through activities such as Zoo Chats and bear training sessions.

Plus, learn about bears in the wild and the challenges they face. General admission is $16.95 for adults and $11.95 for seniors and children ages 3 to 11. For more information, call 708-688-8000 or vist www.czs.org.

MAY 17 AND 18 – CIVIL WAR DAYS, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster Street in Naperville Naper Settlement becomes a Civil War encampment with more than 300 reenactors, where visitors can meet famous characters of the past and become immersed in history as the 150th anniversary of the Civil War is commemorated. A battle is held each day at 2:30 p.m. Tickets in advance are $10 for adults and seniors and $5 for youth; at the door, $15 for adults and seniors and $10 for youth.

For more information, call 630-420-6010 or visit www. napersettlement.com MAY 17 AND 18 – SALT CREEK BALLET SPRING PERFORMANCE, 3 p.m. on Saturday and 1 p.m. on Sunday at the McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd. In Glen Ellyn The company will present “Carnival of the Animals” for their annual spring performance. Tickets are $29 for adults and $15 youth (under 18). For tickets, call 630-942-4000 or visit www.atthemac.org.

MAY 20 - MARTY SAMMON & FRIENDS, 8:30 p.m. at Harlem Avenue Lounge, 3701 S. Harlem Avenue in Berwyn Mr. Buddy Guy’s keyboard player sets the keys on fire with boogie & blues. Catch him playing freestyle in this front porch style setting. No cover charge. For more information, call 708-484-3610 or visit www.harlemavenuelounge.com.

MAY 21 – WILDER MANSION CULINARY SERIES – COUNTRY FRENCH, 6:30 p.m. at Wilder Mansion, 211 S. Prospect Ave. in Elmhurst This cooking class, hosted by Chef Marco from Café Amano, will feature five courses. Participants will also learn knife skills and helpful kitchen tricks. Cost ranges from $55

to $80, depending upon the beverage selection. Advance registration required. For more information and to register, call 630-993-8900 or visit www.epd.org.

MAY 24 – FAMILY FIELD DAY, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at St. James Farm, entrance on S. Winfield Road in Warrenville Enjoy a celebration at this historic forest preserve, featuring canine agility demonstrations and equestrian performances by a variety of riding groups. Join kids activities like fishing and archery, hayrides, tours of the historic buildings and more. Free admission; fees for some activities. For more information, visit www.dupageforest. org.

MAY 23, 24 AND 25 – RED, WHITE & BBQ 2014, 4 to 9 p.m. on Friday, 9 to 10:30 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. To 10:30 p.m. on Sunday at Ty Warner Park, 700 Blackhawk Drive in Westmont This barbecue competition offers great food, live music, and an all-ages carnival. Observe some of the best BBQ experts compete to win prize money and learn BBQ tips. Free admission. For more information, visit www.westmontbbq. com.

MAY 25 – WALKING TOUR OF HISTORIC RIVERSIDE, 2 p.m. at the Riverside Railway Depot, 90 Bloomingbank Road in Riverside This North Division tour will feature the history of this National Landmark, Frederick Law Olmsted’s landscape design, and architectural gems by Frank Lloyd Wright, William Le Baron Jenney & many others. Cost is $15 per person. For more information, call 708-442-7675 or visit www.olmstedsociety.org.

MAY 26 - 96TH ANNUAL MEMORIAL DAY PARADE, 9:30 a.m. at York Road and Third Street in Elmhurst Join in this joyful, yet dignified, celebration to honor and remember all U.S. service men and women that have served. This is a quiet parade, meaning no vehicle horns or sirens. For more information, visit www.elmhurstchamber. org.

MAY 29 THROUGH JUNE 1 – ROSE FESTIVAL, at the Roselle Mertra Station parking lot, Irving Park Road and Maple Avenue in Roselle This is the official start of summer in Roselle. Includes live music, food, carnival rides and more. Free admission; carnival ride wristband specials available. For more information, visit www.roselle.il.us.

Sunday, May 11

Brunch

Adults...$36.95 • Children 4-12...$14.95 Children 3 and under are free

Seatings Available: 11AM, 12:30PM, 2PM Reservations Are Required • Call 630-960-0210 Applicable sales tax and 15% service charge additional. All buffet selections are subject to change without notice.

Splitting of bills is not permitted. Please make arrangements with your party prior to brunch.

435 East Butterfield Road • Lombard, Illinois 60148 • (630) 960-0210 • www.carlislebanquets.com 62 | MAY 2014 | SUBURBAN LIFE MAGAZINE

OUT & ABOUT

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THROUGH MAY 11 - “CABARET,” Friday and Saturday performances at 8 p.m. and Sunday performances at 2 p.m. at Lincoln Center, 935 Maple Ave. in Downers Grove The scene is Berlin’s infamous Kit Kat Club, where the Master of Ceremonies, English singer Sally Bowles and the raucous Cabaret Girls are there to make you forget all your troubles. Presented by the Grove Players. Tickets are $20 for adults, $16 for seniors, and $13 for students. For more information, call 630-415-3682 or visit www.groveplayers. org.

THROUGH JUNE 7 - “SLEEPING BEAUTY,” 10 a.m. performances on select Wednesdays through Saturdays with 1 p.m. Saturday matinees at Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace Drury Lane Theatre for Young Audiences presents the beloved fairy tale involving a beautiful princess, enchantment of sleep and a charming prince. Tickets are $15 each with group rates available; buffet packages available. For more information, call 630-530-8300 or visit www.drurylane. com.

MAY 1 – WHEATON COLLEGE SPRING JAZZ CONCERT, 7:30 p.m. at Edman Memorial Chapel, Washington and Franklin Streets in Wheaton The Wheaton College Jazz Ensemble will perform under the direction of Katie Ernst. Tickets, available only at the door, are $10 for general admission, $5 for seniors over 60, and free to all students and Wheaton College ID holders.

For more information, call 630-752-5099.

MAY 3 AND 4 – HERE COMES THE SUN: THE MUSIC OF THE BEATLES, 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and 3 p.m. on Sunday at Nazareth Academy-La Grange Park, 1209 W. Ogden Ave. in La Grange Park The Tower Chorale of Western Springs will bring back pleasant memories and create new ones performing more than twenty classic Beatles hits including: “And I Love Her”, “Can’t Buy Me Love”, “Love Is All You Need”, “Let It Be” and many more. Tickets are $20 for adults, $17 for seniors and students and children 10 and under are fee.

Tickets are available from singers, at the door, the website www.towerchorale.org, or at 708-505-9570. Doors open 30 minutes before the concert.

MAY 4 – GREENHOUSE OPEN HOUSE, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road in Wheaton This open house included demonstrations, tours, exhibits, plant sales, kids’ activities and more. Members of the Cantigny Horticulture staff will answer gardening and plant questions. Admission and parking are free; some activities may involve a small fee. Enter Cantigny at main gate on Winfield Road. Complimentary tram service available to greenhouse. For more information, visit www.cantigny.org.

MAY 7 THROUGH 11 – ZOPPE, AN ITALIAN FAMILY CIRCUS, select showtimes at Caputo’s Fresh Market, 510 W. Lake Street in Addison Journey to an enchanted world and celebrate life, circus, and family. This circus features Nino, the clown prince of Italy, acrobatic feats, equestrian showmanship, canine capers, and plenty of audience participation. Advance tickets available at any Caputo’s Fresh Market location. For more information, call 630-543-0151 or visit www.zoppe.net.

MAY 9 AND 10 – MONTE MONTGOMERY, 9 p.m. at Fitgerarld’s, at 6615 Roosevelt Road in Berwyn Named one of the “Top 50 All-Time Greatest Guitar Players” by Guitar Player Magazine, Montgomery plays a diverse collection of songs. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. For more information, call 708-788-2118 or visit www.fitzgeraldsnightclub.com.

MAY 10 – GROOVIN’ IN THE GROVE 5K RUN/WALK, 7:45 a.m. at Midwestern University Campus, 55 31st Street in Downers Grove This year’s event benefits Sharing Connections Furniture

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