SPLASH VIRTUAL PERFORMANCES + MUSEUM TOURS | THE WELLNESS WORLD’S NEW GURU
JUNE 2020
PLAYING IT FORWARD CHICAGO CUBS OUTFIELDER IAN HAPP IS GIVING BACK AND GEARING UP
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DO-GOOD GUIDE Looking for a way to show your favorite places some love during difficult times? Here are ways you can keep community spots thriving, even if it’s not in person. BY SAMANTHA LANDE
PERUSE GREEN CITY MARKET FARMERS VIRTUALLY You may not be able to spend upcoming Saturdays perusing the Green City Market, but you can still pay it forward to farmers. The market has taken to the web, linking to all of your favorite farmers and what they offer. Donations go directly to farmers; greencitymarket.org PROTECT THE VULNERABLE WITH CHICAGO COMMUNITY COVID-19 RESPONSE FUND Our region’s health and human service organizations are experiencing a surge in demand from communities significantly impacted by the coronavirus outbreak. Your donation helps them have the resources they need to continue to operate at the highest capacity. All donations accepted; cct.org
ADOPT AN ANIMAL AT SHEDD AQUARIUM Even without an audience, the sea creatures still need your support. Adopt a sea turtle, otter, beluga whale, or penguin, and you’ll get a plush animal, a photo of your adoptee, and a certificate. Proceeds go to animal care at Shedd. Donations starting at $50; sheddaquarium.org WEAR SWAG TO SUPPORT HOURLY RESTAURANT WORKERS Restaurant uniform designer Stock Mfg. created Chicago Hospitality United, a rotating line of apparel with 100 percent of net proceeds going to support hourly restaurant workers from over 50 spots around town. There’s also a virtual tip jar if you want to throw a few extra dollars toward your favorite spot. Donations $5-$65+; stockmfgco.com
HELP FAMILIES THROUGH SHARE OUR SPARE Share Our Spare provides Chicago families in need with new and gently used baby items. Now more than ever, they need help with essentials like diapers and wipes not covered by government assistance. You can do it in a few clicks by buying off Save Our Space’s Amazon wish list. Donations $4-$60+; hareourspare.org and amazon.com SUPPORT CHICAGO THEATER WORKERS RELIEF FUND A night at the theater may not be in the cards but you can still support your favorite performers with a fundraiser set up through the League of Chicago Theatres. The Chicago Theater Workers Relief Fund provides $500 grants to those in need in the local theater community. Donate what you can; chicagoplays.com KEEP LOCAL BOOKSTORES ALIVE WITH OPEN BOOKS Independent bookstores are gems of the community and already few and far between. Open Books in the West Loop and Pilsen has a few ways to support. Drop off used books in no-contact bins at both locations and support these local stores by buying your books on their site. Donations vary; open-books.org
STOCK THE GREATER CHICAGO FOOD DEPOSITORY With so many families homebound, those in need are leaning on the Greater Chicago Food Depository even more. Volunteering to pack boxes (ages 18 to 60) or supporting with a donation will help neighbors in need. $50 provides 150 meals; chicagosfoodbank.org
NEED TO KNOW
SPLASH Publisher and Editor Susanna Homan, susanna@chicagosplash.com Director of Brand Development Liza Sweitzer, liza@chicagosplash.com Managing Editor Kelly Aiglon, kaiglon@chicagosplash.com Art Director Haleigh Brown, hbrown@chicagomag.com Event Director Diana Vdovets, diana@chicagosplash.com For advertising inquiries, please call (312) 832-6729 Contributing Writers Lisa Arnett, Thomas Connors, Samantha Lande, Ryan Smith Contributing Photographers Lisa Hinsberger, Brandon Sullivan Social Media Beth Delany
SUPPORT THE LBGT COMMUNITY WITH CENTER ON HALSTED The Center has always been a part of the fabric of Chicago’s LGBTQ community and it continues to support those in need with counseling, meal pickups, and wellness checks. You can help out with a one-time or monthly donation. Donations vary; centeronhalsted.org FEED SENIORS THROUGH MEALS ON WHEELS The senior population is very vulnerable right now and could use community assistance. A donation to Meals on Wheels would keep homebound seniors fed. $49 feeds a senior for a week; mealsonwheeelschicago.com PROVIDE MEDICAL SUPPLIES TO LOCAL HOSPITALS Doctors and nurses at hospitals across the city and state are in dire need of protective gear, like masks, gloves, and shields. Go to the websites of your local hospitals or watch for drives from Project CURE, an organization that donates medical supplies to underserved populations. Donate supplies; projectcure.org
EXPERIMENT WITH THE MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY The loved cultural institution is looking for budding scientists (a.k.a.: curious kiddos) to support them by doing free projects and sharing them. Sign up for the museum newsletter and it’ll send fun science experiments to do with home items. Like what you see? Consider becoming a member. Membership is $95+; msichicago.org JUNE 2020 | CHICAGOSPLASH.COM
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NEED TO KNOW
TRENDING NOW GREEN DELIVERY Farmer’s Fridge vending machines have saved many a lunch break by popping out ready-made organic meals in offices across the city. Not going into the office? Not to worry — you can still get your fix. Farmer’s Fridge is now offering home delivery in select Chicago neighborhoods. Meals delivered in the signature clear glass container range from pineapple coconut chia pudding to burrito bowls to cobb salads. $3-$16. delivery.farmersfridge.com
HOME FRONT
NEW IN BEAUTY Green spa haven Lena Rose Beauty has always used its own line of products for its pedis, massages, and other treatments. Now anyone interested in a little self-care can get in on the soothing with the launch of the spa’s first house collection of vegan bath and skin care products. Everything, from the hydrating Coconut Mylk + Roses Bath Soak ($24) to spirit-restoring Aura Mist ($14–$32), is made in small batches. lenarosebeauty.com
BAKE YOUR HEART OUT There’s more to life than banana bread, proves Good Ambler, a gourmet chocolatier, bakery, and café coming to Fulton Market. It has created DIY baking kits to satisfy our appetite for getting creative in the kitchen. Choose the DIY Lemon Meringue Pie Kit or the DIY Sunny Days Ahead Kit (iced cookies). Both are quick, easy, and able to get you out of that bread rut. $18 each. goodambler.com
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Interior designer Gil Melott loves to tell a story. It’s clear in his new capsule collection of furniture and lighting called Bespoke. Look for classically shaped forms with modern twists, all sized appropriate for urban living. The V Lounge chair (starting at $3,400), for one, evokes memories of Melott’s childhood chopping wood with his uncle in the Texas heat. Designed to be timeless, pieces are crafted using traditional woodworking and joinery techniques. studio6f.com
NEED TO KNOW LIT WITS When lifelong friends Kari Herrera and Alexis Honoria created their literary-focused podcast, Lit Society, they knew that true storytelling had the potential to beyond words on a page. So they created Litotes, handmade candles inspired by their podcast episodes and the specific books discussed therein. The Gatsby’s Garden candle, for example, is a bouquet of green leaves, rose bushes, and Champagne cocktails that nods to F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic. Light one and listen for a full sensory experience. $36 each. lovelitotes.com
SIMPLY SNACKIN’ Emily Griffith fell in love with sprouted buckwheat while living in Australia. When she moved back to Chicago she decided to share her passion for the crunchy superfood, creating Lil Bucks. It’s the first dedicated sprouted buckwheat brand in U.S. and its core product, Clusterbucks, is here to top your smoothie bowl, ice cream, scrambled eggs, salad, and more. From $5.99. lovelilbucks.com
STYLE THAT GIVES Want to be philanthropic and clean your closet? Ann Taylor is making it easy through a new partnership with Give Back Box. Download a shipping label on its site, pack a box with your gently used clothes, and Ann Taylor will find a charitable home for them. Lifestyle influencer Johanna Grange (@jogrange) is a fan of the initiative. “I think we are all searching for ways we can give back to the community,” she says. “Every bit counts. This is great example of … why not keep what you love and donate the rest so that other women can feel amazing?” anntaylor.com
JUICE ON THE LOOSE HI-VIBE Superfood Juicery won’t let a pandemic hold it back. It’s just launched a new juice lab and retail space in Lakeview with a healthy focus. Its nutrient-rich juices ($8/ each) are consciously created to help our bodies to perform at their peak. All raw and coldpressed, they also come in compostable packaging. 2904 N. Ashland; hi-vibe.com
POSITIVE PRINTS Like many, Chicago artist Kristi Kohut watched the world struggle with the reality of COVID-19 and wondered how she could help. So she launched a charitable collection of prints, titled the Sunshine Initiative. With simple yet powerful statements, each is like a hug for the soul. For every purchase, Kohut delivers fresh produce boxes to front-line hospital and health care workers through a partnership with the Produce Alliance. From $125. kristikohut.studio
AT THE SHOOT Chicago Cubs outfielder Ian Happ was out in Mesa, Arizona, for spring training, expecting to be back in the Windy City in a few days for the season opener. But plans shifted when COVID-19 emerged, and Happ found himself with free time and a large dollop of uncertainty. Still, he’s not one to be idle and joined us for our cover shoot while also remaining focused on a style partnership with Mugsy Jeans. Get the full story on p. 6. Photographer Brandon Sullivan Wardrobe Mugsy Jeans JUNE 2020 | CHICAGOSPLASH.COM
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The
LONG GAME WHILE OUTFIELDER IAN HAPP WAITS FOR CUBS SEASON TO BEGIN, HE’S KEEPING MOMENTUM WITH FASHION AND CHARITABLE EFFORTS STORY BY RYAN SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRANDON SULLIVAN
IAN HAPP HAS A CONFESSION TO MAKE. Though he’s still a relative baby on this veteran Cubs roster, the fresh-faced Pittsburgh native doesn’t necessarily act the part. In the clubhouse, he’s got Big Dad Energy. “I’m 25 going on 40,” says Happ. “I’m kind of the old soul on the team that just really enjoys sipping coffee and good wine, and playing golf.” But North Siders are banking on the fact that he’ll play like his listed age in 2020. According to some reports out of Arizona, new manager David Ross is likely to pencil in the versatile Happ as the starting center fielder for opening day following a scorching hot spring in which he hit .481 with two home runs and 11 RBIs in just 10 Cactus League games. “I definitely see a guy having a (good) at-bat, hitting to all fields,” Ross told the Chicago Tribune this past winter. “His right-handed swing looks really good so far. He seems in a great place mentally.” It’s newsy nuggets like this that are keeping us all intrigued while we wait for baseball season to begin. At presstime, owners had approved a July start with no fans in stands, and now are negotiating with players. One thing is sure: When we do get to rally around the field again, it’s going to be momentous. And Cubs like Happ are approaching things with newfound skills and conviction. Happ, a 2015 first-round pick, admits he’s a very different player than he was a year ago when he followed up a disappointing 2018 season in which he struck out 36 percent of his at-bats at spring training. Then-manager Joe Maddon had seen enough and exiled him to Triple-A Iowa for half of 2019. The switch-hitting slugger was disappointed at the time, sure. But he now credits that long residency in the minors for his solid second half in a utility role and stellar spring for the Cubs. “I had to make some adjustments and get back to the basics of what made me successful as a player earlier in my career because I was trying to be someone I wasn’t,” he says. “So I think that all that experience (in the minors) definitely helped me both physically and mentally. Now I feel way more comfortable.” Talk to Happ enough and that word “comfortable” comes up constantly. He says he’s reassured by the familiar presence of his longtime teammates and Ross — who’s been a fixture with the franchise as a player, special assistant, and now manager. Comfortability also defines Happ’s laid-back lifestyle. He’s stayed put in the same River North apartment since moving to the city in 2017 (“to have something that consistent as a baseball player
A CUBS FAN’S HIT LIST FOR ONCE THE SEASON GETS UP AND RUNNING Get into the swing of things by taking some at-bats at SLUGGER’S WORLD CLASS SPORTS BAR (3540 N. Clark). The second floor of this classic sports bar down the street from Wrigley Field features indoor batting cages. See Addison Russell’s famous 2016 grandslam ball and the largest collection of Cubs World Series memorabilia in the city at the CHICAGO SPORTS MUSEUM (Water Tower Place, 835 N. Michigan). Grab a “Cheezborger” at the original BILLY GOAT TAVERN (430 N. Michigan) and celebrate that the Curse of the Billy Goat ended. Gear up in an Ian Happ jersey or that of your favorite player. Get it straight from the source at the CUBS TEAM STORE (3637 N. Clark) right outside Wrigley Field. Drink like a local by ordering a Chicago Handshake at NISEI LOUNGE (3439 N. Sheffield) Wrigleyville’s oldest bar. Uninitiated in the Handshake? It’s a drink special involving a shot of Malört paired with an old-school Midwestern beer, like Old Style.
is pretty rare,” he says) and treasures his 15-minute commute along Lake Shore Drive every day to go to work at Chicago’s iconic ballpark, the place Happ calls “my office.” And if it were socially acceptable, Happ might wear his baby blue pinstripes just about everywhere because of how cozy the Cubs uniform feels. “Honestly, it’s like wearing a pair of pajamas,” says Happ. “It’s amazing because when you’re younger the baseball pants you wear are stiff and uncomfortable but when you put on those big-league pants, it’s like — wow!” Luckily, he met Mugsy Jeans founder Leo Tropeano at the 2019 Cubs Convention and tried on a pair of pants made by the local brand, which markets a more flexible, stretchable kind of denim. “As an athlete always looking for clothes that are closer to what we spend every day in, I was excited that these jeans felt like my (Cubs pants),” says Happ. Happ was so into the jeans that he recently signed on to be an official ambassador for Mugsy. He’ll be photographed to appear in their next ad campaign, launching this month, and will also make appearances at their newly opened flagship store on the Magnificent Mile. Or at least that’s the plan. As it has for many Chicagoans, the stay-at-home mandate due to COVID-19 has been hard on Happ, especially without the comfort of sports. “It’s definitely weird because in a time of crisis or when things aren’t going well usually sports is something that keeps going and gives people something to be excited about,” he says. As it happens, Happ is especially attuned to the human spirit. He lost his father, Keith, to brain cancer in October 2015, a moment that led Happ to focus on his mental wellbeing. He went so far as to launch a charity with his family, the Happ Family Charitable Fund, which supports mental health and wellness causes. Through the charity, he was able to commission a set of Wrigley Field artworks called “Through My Eyes.” Proceeds from sales go to initiatives through the wellness organizations Bring Change to Mind and First Tee Chicago. It all comes from a place of hope. Happ, who enjoys meditation and yoga, likes to focus on the positive. And he’s vocal about his desire that once the current crisis passes, baseball will be a big factor in returning the city to a place of normalcy. He pictures people flocking to Wrigley Field — for the game, of course. But also for a sense of catharsis. “Once you step out on the field, Wrigley really has this different personality or aura. It’s breathtaking,” he says. “I think that when we finally go back out there and when people get to see us, it will be a super special and real emotional moment. And if somehow we were to win a World Series this year after everything everyone has gone through — man — that would be really cool.” JUNE 2020 | CHICAGOSPLASH.COM
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At-Home Workout Routines
ST R E N GT H & ST R E TC H SINGLE LEG STEP-UPS
B OX J U M P S
Choose a box or elevated surface you feel comfortable with, where you are able to track the knee on top of your foot. Start with feet roughly six inches from the box. Step foot on top of the box. Drive the knee over the foot and stand. Repeat same leg as many times within the 50 seconds, allowing 10 seconds to switch legs.
Stand your feet shoulder-width apart and at a comfortable distance from the box. Bend your knees and push your hips back while swinging your arms behind you. Propel yourself onto the box, landing in a partial squat. For safety, step down from the box, one leg at a time, instead of jumping.
E L E VAT E D P U S H U P S
FLUTTER KICKS
From face-down, put your feet on bench or other elevated surface so they are higher than your head. Keeping your hands shoulder-width apart, lined up with your chest, push through your palms.
Lie on your back, hands at your sides. Keep one leg straight up while the other rises from the floor to meet it. Keep your abs engaged to tone those muscles, as well as strengthen your core. Do about 10 per side.
S E AT E D A B W O R K
L AT E R A L S H U F F L E
Sit on the floor, with hands by your side for balance. Extend both of legs and, rhythmically, tuck both of your knees to your chest. Repeat entire sequence above two times before taking a minute rest.
Stand with your left foot on the box and your right foot on the floor. Bend your knees slightly, keep your chest up, and bend your arms 90 degrees. Push off your left foot and jump to your left, landing with your right foot on the box and your left foot on the floor, knees bent. Push off your right foot to jump back to the starting position. Do this 10 times.
JOE THOMAS
STRENGTH Goal “Go for a full-body burn,” says “Big Joe” Thomas. “The key word is ‘burn’ — when you feel it, you know it’s working.” The payoff you’ll experience is arm and chest sculpting, leg agility building, and fat burning.
Tip Have a timer on hand. For maximum results, try to do as many reps as possible in 50 seconds. After 50 seconds, move on to the next movement with little or no rest.
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No gym? No problem. Our living rooms can do the job. We understand if you need a little coaching, which is why we asked two local experts for their at-home fitness routines. “BIG JOE” THOMAS, personal trainer at Legit Training and Flats Chicago, has you focusing on strength and toning; and COURTNEY ARONSON, director of yoga at Studio Three, is here with stretch moves that flex the body and quiet the mind.
S TA N D I N G E X T E N S I O N
KNEELING LUNGE
Stand tall and extend your arms overhead. Clasp your right wrist using your left hand, lean towards the left side of the room while pressing your hips to the right creating a halfmoon shape in the body. Keep a small bend in your knees and relax your shoulders. Lengthen and stretch the entire right side of your body. Switch sides.
Start in tabletop pose. Step your right foot between your palms, keeping your left knee on the floor. Lift your torso and place your palms on your right thigh. Engage your right glute and start to deepen the bend in your right knee to any extent. Feel a deep stretch through your hip flexor muscles on the front of your left hip. Switch sides.
H E AV Y H A N G
S E AT E D T W I S T
Stand with your feet hip-width distance apart or wider, fold over your legs while maintaining a bend in your knees. Grab for opposite elbows and allow the head to hang heavy, gazing towards the knees. Feel the deep stretch through your hamstrings, glutes, and lower back as you lengthen the spine.
Start in a seat with your legs extended long. Bend your right knee and cross your foot over your left thigh until it’s flat on the floor with your right knee pointed towards the ceiling. Use your left arm to give yourself a big hug around your right leg, plant your right hand on the floor behind you. Press into the right palm and twist. Gaze over the right shoulder, maintain length through the spine.
CHILD’S POSE
LY I N G S T R E T C H
Start in tabletop pose. Keep your hips above your knees while you walk your palms forward, finding as much length through the torso as possible. You may be able to bring the forehead or chest to the floor. Enjoy the stretch through the shoulders and upper back, and lengthen through the spine.
Lie flat on your back. Bend your knees and bring the soles of the feet together so that the knees fall toward the floor. If you need additional support, bring pillows beneath the outer thighs. Enjoy the stretch in the inner thighs and abductor muscles.
COURTNEY ARONSON
ST R E TC H Goal “Mobility is one of the most important pillars of physicality and movement,” says Courtney Aronson. “There are endless benefits to stretching, like increasing range of motion, decreasing risk of injury, and alleviating aches and pain.”
Tip Make sure to breathe while you do these moves; it’s critical to calming the nervous system and deepening into your postures, which results in a more effective stretch.
APRIL JUNE 2020 | CHICAGOSPLASH.COM
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EVER AFTER
Eileen Finley & Alex Petrich
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ileen Finley, 31, and Alex Petrich, 33, are proof that old-fashioned matchmaking is not a lost art. Finley, a human resources analyst, met a friend’s boyfriend in the summer of 2014. “I asked if he had any friends he could set me up with,” she says. He immediately thought of Petrich, who works in benefits administration for Allied Benefit Systems. They hit it off on a double date and, four years later, Petrich surprised Finley with a proposal. It was on closing day for their first condo in Ukrainian Village, which happened to be his parent’s wedding anniversary. They planned a May 16, 2020, ceremony for 250 guests at Holy Family Church at St. Ignatius College Prep — where Finley went to school — and a reception at the Builders BLDG (222 N. LaSalle). But the sudden worsening of Finley’s mother’s cancer prognosis prompted them to move up the wedding. With options for a large celebration dwindling quickly with increasing concerns about COVID-19, they decided to marry a week later, on March 21, in Finley’s parents’ home in Jefferson Park. They limited the gathering to 10 people — just their closest family members — while their bridal party and other loved ones watched via livestream. “It was just a true swarm of support and help from everyone,” Finley says. One friend assembled all the bouquets and boutonnieres, while another sent a cake from Dinkel’s Bakery. Unable to travel to join the celebration, one of Petrich’s sisters booked them a room at the Waldorf Astoria. A friend’s mother who plays bagpipe with the Shannon Rovers — booked to play at their May wedding — stopped by with a surprise sidewalk performance, drawing neighbors out onto the street to listen. As of press time, the newlyweds were staying busy during the stay-at-home order thanks to their new puppy, Ellie, a collie-Lab mix. They hope to reschedule their original wedding plans at the Builders BLDG later this year. —Lisa Arnett
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IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS Photography Nakai Photography, nakaiphotography.com
Shoshanna dress from Rent the Runway, renttherunway.com
Groom’s attire Calvin Klein suit from Macy’s, macys.com
Venue Bride’s family home in Jefferson Park
Bride’s accessories Steve Madden heels from Macy’s, macys.com; earrings from Kendra Scott, 3425 N. Southport, kendrascott.com
Cake Dinkel’s Bakery, 3329 N. Lincoln, dinkels.com
Catering Dineamic Hospitality, 10 W. Hubbard, dineamic.com/catering Bride’s attire Pronovias gown from Luxe Bridal Rack, 2165 N. Milwaukee, luxebridalrack.com;
Bride’s hair and makeup Rare Bird Beauties, 1019 N. Western, rarebirdbeauties.com
Flowers Roses, hydrangea, and greenery arranged by a friend of the bride Rings Windy City Diamonds, 1 S. Wabash, windycitydiamonds.com; West Town Jewelry, 2059 W. Chicago
IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS Photography Lauren Ashley Studios, lauren-ashley.com Venue Lacuna Artist Lofts, 2150 S. Canalport, lacuna2150.com
Kristen Corley & John Barone
Bride’s attire Eva Lendel gown, My Darling Bridal in St. Paul, Minnesota, mydarlingbridalmn.com Bride’s hair and makeup We Only Do Pretty, 1917 W. Diversey, weonlydopretty.com
K
risten Corley and John Barone, both 29, have known each other for more than half their lives. They met as sixth graders growing up in Arlington Heights, with many of their early conversations taking place on AOL Instant Messenger. “I would sneak online at night and hope my parents didn’t hear the dial-up modem noise,� says Corley, a physical therapist. On the 13th anniversary of their very first date, Barone, an attorney, proposed in their Lincoln Park home with a ring he had made with a diamond repurposed from a pendant of his mother’s. “As a teenage girl, I’d been dreaming of marrying this guy for half my life,� says Corley. “It was surreal and so sweet.� They took first-look photos at the Palmer House Hilton (17 E. Monroe) before marrying at Lacuna Artists Lofts (2150 S. Canalport) in a winter ceremony that honored their shared past. “I think when you understand where someone came from, then you can really appreciate who they have become,� says Barone. Their lighthearted musical choices certainly made their guests smile: A violinist and cellist played the “Star Wars� theme when the groom entered, followed by “Tale as Old as Time� from “Beauty and the Beast� for the bride’s procession. Corley fell in love with her Eva Lendel gown—a high-necked number with a detachable train—after spotting it on Instagram. “A cute little store called My Darling Bridal in Minneapolis was the only store in the Midwest that had her, so my mom and my aunt and my cousin drove nine hours in a blizzard to get there,� she says. “And she was the one!�—Lisa Arnett
Bridesmaid’s attire Brideside, 660 W. Lake, brideside.com Groom’s and groomsmen’s attire The Black Tux, 917 W. Armitage, theblacktux.com Invitations Zola, zola.com Catering LM Catering, 1932 W. Lake, lmcateringchicago.com Dessert Carrot cake from Sweet Mandy B’s, 1208 W. Webster, sweetmandybs.com; doughnuts by Do-Rite, 50 W. Randolph, doritedonuts.com Florist Eucalyptus arrangement with blush and white roses, Artistic Blooms, 1825 W. Wilson, artisticbloomschicago.com Rings Monson Jewelers, 25 N. Brockway, Palatine, monsonjewelers.com Entertainment Bluewater Kings, bluewaterkingsband.com
PHOTOGRAPHY BY AJ ABELMAN PHOTOGRAPHY
Andrea Bradley & Matthew Morrissey
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fter connecting online, Andrea Bradley and Matthew Morrissey met for their first date at the J. Parker, the rooftop bar of Hotel Lincoln (1816 N. Clark). It just so happened to be the perfect destination between their two Lincoln Park apartments. They bonded over a few rounds of old-fashioneds and stayed until the bar closed at 2 a.m. on a Tuesday. Four years later in October 2019, they returned to the J. Parker and Morrissey surprised Bradley with a proposal. They favored CafĂŠ Brauer (2021 N. Stockton) as a venue, but found the earli-
est available dates were in 2021—except for February 22, 2020. They decided to go for it and, thanks to the help of Danielle Kuhn of Ohana Events, planned the wedding at lightning speed. “Matt’s parents got engaged and planned their wedding in four months,� says Bradley, 37, who works in business development at Kirkland & Ellis. “Every time somebody asked, ‘Are you crazy?’ we said, ‘No, that’s what they did!’ � The fluke 50-degree weather allowed for first-look photos at—where else?—the J. Parker before their ceremony at Holy Family Church (1080 W. Roosevelt) at St.
Ignatius College Prep, where Morrissey went to high school. Their candlelit reception at CafĂŠ Brauer started with heartfelt speeches and ended with a packed dance floor, thanks to Kansas City band KC Flo. “They play primarily mash-ups of all the hits and it was just like nonstop party the whole way through,â€? says Morrissey, 35, an attorney at Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath. They honeymooned in Africa, where they visited Victoria Falls in Zambia, went on safari excursions in Botswana, and relaxed on the beach in Benguerra Island off the coast of Mozambique.—Lisa Arnett JUNE 2020 | CHICAGOSPLASH.COM
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Q&A How do you think you’ll feel when filming those final scenes as Hermione? I loved that character and the duality she has going on. She’s constantly calculating and never knows where she stands with [husband] Hiram. Hermione has a quality of being able to hide her emotions and play her cards close to the vest. I’ve never played a character like her before. I hope [the writers] do her justice and explain where she’s going or why she’s leaving. I hope it’s not just a throwaway [ending].
MARISOL NICHOLS The Naperville native and “Riverdale” actress bids farewell to her CW family
You’ve mentioned you had a rebellious side growing up in Chicago. How has that influenced the characters you play? I think it comes in handy whenever I play a character who’s streetwise. Hermione is kind of streetwise but on a whole other economic level than I was. It helps with other characters I’m playing. There’s a certain toughness that goes along with having a really messed-up youth, to say the least. I’ve learned from those things and I carry it with me in who I am.
BY BETH DELANY
You’re starring in “Spiral,” the ninth installment in the “Saw” franchise. How is this a different role for you? I play a police captain, so it’s definitely more tough and street. There are not really two sides to her [like Hermione]. What you see is what you get, and I like playing a completely different character and showing fans that side of me. I don’t want to say it was a joy because that sounds weird when talking about a horror movie, but I really liked it. You think it’d be all doom and gloom and serious [on set] … but it’s not in the least. Everyone [including costars Chris Rock and Samuel L. Jackson] is laughing and joking around.
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In a time of uncertainty, people tend to feel helpless. How do you stay involved and give back? [Celebrities] have a responsibility. We have a built-in audience. I began hearing about several million kids being sold into the child sex trade. … You can’t even wrap your head around it. I founded a nonprofit called Foundation for a Slavery Free World. I’ve met with the White House under President [Barack] Obama. That’s where my passion lies; that’s our future generation. Stay up to date on the season finale of “Riverdale” at cwtv.com and follow “Spiral: From the Book of Saw” at @saw.
PHOTO BY MICHAEL BLANK
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fter four seasons portraying the cunning and crafty Hermione Lodge on CW’s hit teen drama “Riverdale,” Marisol Nichols is departing the series. Fans of the show are reeling about her impending exit. Lodge, who’s trapped in a complicated cycle of love and enmity with her onscreen family Mark Consuelos and Camila Mendes, should have tied up her story this spring. But with COVID-19 halting production, Nichols is left wondering how her long run will wrap as she prepares to film the season finale. Still, the 46-year-old is ready to pave her next course. From trying her hand in the horror genre to continuing to lay a foundation for our future generation, Nichols has a lot on the horizon.
What roles would you still like to tackle in your career? I think I’m a better actor now than when I was younger. I’d like to play a really complicated role — like in a Jessica Chastain film where a woman is up against a giant [challenge] to overcome, like a big company she’s taking on or people trying to kill her. I want to play something like that, where you see how a woman can shine under pressure. I love those movies.
ARTS
CULTURE IN PLACE The curtain may have come down on Chicago’s arts scene, but your fix is right at home and just a click away BY THOMAS CONNORS
INSTALLATION VIEW, DURO OLOWU: SEEING CHICAGO, 2020. PHOTO: KENDALL MCCAUGHERTY.
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o question about it: “Cabin fever” has taken on a whole new meaning these days. Happily, Chicago’s shuttered arts and entertainment institutions have stepped up their online presence to keep hearts and minds engaged. Here’s a sample of some online options to satisfy your culture fix from home. One of the city’s liveliest venues, the Auditorium Theatre, is reaching out to audiences with a variety of online content available on multiple platforms. On Sundays at 6 p.m. there’s music and dance programming on Facebook Live. Every Wednesday at noon, the theater offers #AudTalk, a video version of the Auditorium’s podcast, showcasing the companies that have graced its stage. And you can brush up on the theater’s rich history at #ThisDayattheAud. For updates on programming, visit theaud.us/keepingup. Back in 2016, the Goodman Theatre mounted a stage version of Roberto Bolano’s epic novel (800 pages plus) “2666,” a grim but compelling multilayered story that began with the insular world of a group of intellectuals and traveled to a violent Mexican landscape. The production clocked in at five and a half hours, which gave even the most enthusiastic theatergoers pause. But taking it in from the comfort of your home? Why not? Check it out at goodmantheatre.org/watch2666. Last fall at the Magic Lounge, Canadian magician Carisa Hendrix beguiled audiences with her magic/comedy mash-up “Indulgence With Lucy Darling.” Sporting Tootsie Pop red hair and dress slit up to here — and
The Second City on Zoom
Duro Olowu’s “Seeing Chicago” exhibit at the MCA
a delivery somewhere between Marilyn Monroe and “Gilligan Island’s” Mrs. Howell — Hendrix reeled folks in with a wonderful-to-meet-you persona and a menu of illusions whipped up with a cocktail shaker in hand. Catch it now at carisahendrix.com/indulgence. The next best thing to an actual visit to the Art Institute of Chicago is accessing the extensive videos at youtube.com/user/ArtInstituteChicago. The offerings range from one-camera recordings of lectures to handsomely produced clips pegged to specific artists (Manet, Warhol, and more), eye-opening bits on the art and science of conservation, and a wonderful array of pieces on architecture and design. Need just a quick break from your keyboard and the kids? Visit mcachicago.org/Publications/Video/2020/ Duro-Olowu-Seeing-Chicago to hear Duro Olowu talk about art and inspiration. The Nigerian-born British designer, who curated the “Seeing Chicago” show at the Museum of Contemporary Art (a lively mix of photography, film, painting, and sculpture), will clear your head with his direct, unfussy philosophy for appreciating the beautiful and the banal. Marriott Theatre’s “Kiss Me Kate” is just one of the many, many shows that have gone dark in Chicagoland, but cast members are reaching out to audiences with greetings and good wishes on their YouTube channel. Dancer Kyra Soirce lets viewers in on her workout routine (in her kitchen), Trevor Vanderzee and James T. Lane sing a song, and Joe Bigelow isn’t too shy to share his current time-killing pastime — knitting socks! The old improv rule of thumb is to think in terms of “Yes, and …” That’s to say, support a scene, no matter the cost. Turns out, the same goes for real life, as the Second City keeps the show going during this time
“2666” at the Goodman Theatre
from Zoom. On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 7 p.m., catch “Improv House Party,” where the Second City talent and alumni get riotous from their own homes, performing free, live improv shows with participation from the online audience. On Tuesdays, “Improv House Party” dials in the ladies with “Girls Night In,” hosted by Carisa Barreca, and featuring a rotating cast members of “She the People” and special guests. Featuring classic “Girls’ Night” games and improv inspired by your suggestions, this is comedy by women — for everyone. Each Saturday, director Anneliese Toft and musical director Jesse Case assemble host Cody Dove with performers Mark Campbell, E.J. Cameron, E.R. Fightmaster, Frank Caeti, and Jaime Moyer for a string of interactive impromptu skits and games. The events are streamed for free. Donations are accepted to the Second City Alumni Fund, a resource for performers and other members of the Second City community experiencing critical health and financial challenges. Register at secondcity.com/chicago-shows. JUNE 2020 | CHICAGOSPLASH.COM
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WHO TO WATCH
UP A LEVEL
The fitness pro empowers everyone to be their best with her vibrant new community BY KELLY AIGLON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA HINSBERGER
NIKKI SNOW AGE 32 LIVES IN Ravenswood CLAIM TO FAME Snow, a Reebok-sponsored athlete, gained international recognition in the fitness industry as a Les Mills trainer and presenter. She recently went on her own to launch PHIT Society, a podcast and community with a fresh approach to wellness. POSITIVE SPIN Along with cofounder Rachel Babiracki, who lives in Denver, Snow seeks to pivot society’s view on what being fit really is. “We’re here to change the narrative from ‘You are not there yet’ to ‘You are enough right now,’ � says Snow. IN A NAME PHIT stands for “push hard, inspire together.� The plan is to launch networking events with fitness professionals across Chicago, as soon as there is government clearance to host group gatherings again. “We’ll sweat, learn, and grow together as a community,� Snow says. Until then, you can get inspired by listening to the PHIT Society podcast, on which personalities from across the globe share their stories of finding strength and balance. UP FOR A CHALLENGE You can also find Snow doing some coaching of her own. She’s a leader in the Oxygen Magazine Challenge. On now at oxygen.com, the 90-day program includes a progressive strength and cardio program that’s “very doable indoors with minimal equipment.� Complementing the workout is mindset coaching education and healthful recipes created by Snow’s wife, Joanne Ybe, a notable home cook. CRISIS MANAGEMENT COVID-19 has forced the world to look at health differently and make drastic adjustments. Yet, Snow is optimistic for the future of the fitness industry. “It’s not going away, because people are made to move and are social creatures who want to belong together. I believe the crisis is inspiring entrepreneurs and big powerhouse brands alike to create innovative ways to move our bodies and connect socially.� EARLY DAYS Snow started her fitness career in Utah, working the front desk of Gold’s Gym before taking the leap to teach cardio dance and strength classes. “I always dreamed of being a backup dancer for Janet Jackson, so this is my way of living that out. The best part is that I’m not performing for people, I’m performing with people. And that keeps my fire burning bright.� LIVING LOCAL Snow sees life brightening even more when the stay-at-home order is lifted and she and Ybe have the chance to reexplore their favorite neighborhood spots, like the Warbler (4535 N. Lincoln) for cocktails and Octavio (5310 N. Clark) for Mexican food and Sunday drag brunch. To learn more about PHIT Society, visit phitsociety.com
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