Forest & Bluff, March 2023

Former Lake Forest resident Kelly Rizzo reflects on her passions and life with Bob Saget

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ANN LYON 847.828.9991 alyon@atproperties.com

Award winning agent for 17 years. Bachelor of Arch. Practiced architecture for 20 years

JUST LISTED

JEFF FOLKER 847.504.6182 jfolker@atproperties.com

20+ years in corporate sales & consulting, 2-term member of LF District 67 School Board.

KIM CAMPBELL 312.434.9372 kimcampbell@atproperties.com

Master of Banking & Finance, Stonier, Wharton, U of Penn. 25 years in Comm. Bank & Mang.

JENNIFER MOWER 847.345.6600 jennifermower@atproperties.com

30+ years in sales, development and customer service. Lifelong Lake Forest Resident.

253

5 Bed, 4.1 Bath // $2,299,000

Fabulous in-town location! Beautifully renovated throughout, this historic home was exquisitely updated and enlarged in 2007 utilizing the finest finishes and materials with incredible attention to detail on all four levels. Located in east Lake Forest on desirable Vine Avenue, this home exudes comfort, sophistication and style at every turn. Situated on .31 acres with 7,500 square feet of total finished living space. Move right in and enjoy everything that this spectacular home has to offer.

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Lovely custom built home in desirable

floor all

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This magnificent custom home exudes comfort, quality and luxury on 3/4 of an acre in coveted east Winnetka! Updated & expanded, this 7,400 sqft home was designed with rooms to be lived in and enjoyed.

693 LONGWOOD DRIVE LAKE FOREST

4 Bed, 2.2 Bath // $859,000

Whispering Oaks

a first

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1095 FISHER LANE WINNETKA

Bed, 4.3 Bath // $2,995,000

334 EVERETT ROAD LAKE FOREST

Bed,

Bath // $2,449,000

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FEATURES

GALLOPING GOOD

The

TRANSFORMING SPACES

PASSION

Kelly Rizzo, a former Lake Forest resident and widow of Bob Sagat, channels her love for food, travel, and music into her EatTravelRock brand.

DESTINED

Editor’s Note

Star power comes in many forms and this issue celebrates talents from many fields of expertise—entertainment, interior design, fundraising for the advancements in behavioral health, all inspiring people to never give up on their dreams.

This month I had the privilege to meet with and style Kelly Rizzo, host and creator of the award-winning blog, Eat Travel Rock. One year after the death of her late husband, Bob Saget, she shared with us about how she is turning her grief into gratitude and how it has further encouraged her to follow her passions and find new ways to help people. Aside from her own incredible future goals, she wants to inspire girls to not only follow their own path but to fulfill their dreams. Her beauty truly shines inside and out, and it was so much fun and indeed inspiring to spend the few hours together that we did. I can’t wait for you to read all about it in her feature, Passion Projects.

Lake Forest’s Lisa Wolfe has a vision for interiors and architecture that has set her apart and brought her recognition nationwide. In her story, Transforming Spaces we learned how Wolfe goes for the unexpected, always.

“I strive to create something different that I haven’t seen or done before.” she says. “In my head, I’m always looking for that twist, often pushing them out of their comfort zone and there’s nothing better than having my client turn to me and say, ‘you were so right! t’s like watching someone open up a gift you worked so hard on.”

Our next feature story, Galloping Good Day, The Women’s Board of Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital saddles up for its annual Kentucky Derby-themed benefit raising funds for the Board’s behavioral health initiative. “We’re excited to bring this Derby theme back to life,” benefit co-

chair and Lake Forest College alumna Jeni Hoogasian says, four years after attendees of the same occasion sipped mint juleps and either wore handsome blazers or sported stylish hats in a Churchill Downs-transformed setting. “This event is next level, a major task, but I’m having fun thinking about it every day and making sure we’re doing all we can to make it special.”

A couple months back, I visited Grayson Pruett while she was home for a break from Villanova University at her family’s home in Lake Forest. She told me the story of how an experience abroad woke her up to a new passion that empowers and inspires others through her motivational podcast, Meant for Big Things. Grayson Pruett is on a mission to motivate those who want to make their dreams a reality and step into their best versions of themselves.

There are so many great stories of inspiration and beauty in these next pages, and I truly hope you enjoy reading. Until next month, happy March!

THERESA DE MARIA Editor in Chief

Photography by Susan Bowlus

18 Hole Golf Course at The Boca Raton

Kelly Rizzo at her family’s home in Lake Forest wears cashmere sweater by Brunello Cuchinelli from Neiman Marcus

Louis Vuitton limited edition Clouds Soft Trunk strap wallet $4,132 farfetch.com

Invitation to sell at auction

We are accepting jewelry consignments for our May auction. Contact us to receive an auction valuation on a single item or entire collection.

Diamond Brooch Sold for $21,250 Harry Winston, Jacques Timey, Colombian Emerald and Diamond Pendant/Brooch Sold for $43,750

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The Good Life

Musings on What’s Doing And Who’s Doing It

The HOW on living your best life, engaging in meaningful activities, and building relationships in the community

THE CLOISTER AT THE BOCA RATON RESORT, Well Traveled

NIGHT AT THE OPERA Everyone should see an opera at least once in their life, as it takes you on a journey through time and emotion. And there’s no better place to do that than Verona, Italy. The Arena di Verona, a Roman amphitheater built in the first century A.D. to watch the fights of gladiators, will host the 100th anniversary of its iconic opera festival this summer. Enjoy performances such as La Traviata or Aida and feel the acoustics as they vibrate around the historical site. We recommend staying in the Italian Lakes and taking the train to Verona, as it’s only around an hour from Lake Garda. That way you can enjoy the beauty of the lakes by day and an evening under the stars at the opera by night. citalia.com

A REAL LIVEWIRE The new S2 Del Mar™ model from LiveWire™, an all-electric motorcycle brand spun off by Harley-Davidson, will reach dealers early this year with a price of about $15,000. The proprietary S2 ARROW architecture was created at Live-Wire Labs in Mountain View, California, but the bike’s lean “street-tracker” styling has its roots in Harley-Davidson racing legend. Expected to weigh less than 440 pounds and to be powered by an 80-horsepower motor, the S2 Del Mar should be blazing quick–LiveWire predicts 0-60 mph in less than 3.5 seconds. The anticipated range in city riding is 100 miles. livewire.com

F&B Loves

VINOTHERAPY Wine lovers, this is your dream come true. Thanks to Aire Ancient Baths in Chicago’s River West, you can literally bathe yourself in red wine. One of the most indulgent items on the bath house spa menu, this 180-minute red wine bath to soak in “the antioxidant properties of the Spanish Tempranillo grapes,” according to Manager Michael Lara. This experience includes time in the ancient thermal bath circuit and the laconicum steam room, in addition to 30 minutes in the wine bath with a cranio-facial massage. End the experience with an hour-long massage with grape seed oil. You will be transported to another place while you enjoy the benefit from the revitalizing and purifying effects. beaire.com

WEIRD AND WONDERFUL WORLD WITH MARY ROACH

WHEN: March 1

WHERE: Lake Forest Library via Zoom

Experience an entertaining and hilarious evening with New York Times best-selling science author Mary Roach. Join Roach and the Lake Forest Library on Zoom to explore her frank approach to science, the importance of humor, and our weird and wonderful world. lakeforestlibrary.org/event/weird-wonderfulworld-mary-roach-3

ST. PATRICK’S DAY SHOWCASE

WHEN: March 5

WHERE: Lake Forest Academy, Cressey Center

The O’Hare School of Irish Dance, founded in 1979, will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day this year with its annual showcase on Sunday, March 5, at Lake Forest Academy. Students from beginner to championship level will perform to traditional Irish music. Owner and Lake Bluff resident Veronica Lilja Brugioni offers her students top-notch instruction from world champions and stars of Riverdance and Lord of the Dance ohareirishdance.com

2023 HUMANITARIAN AWARDS DINNER

WHEN: March 7

WHERE: Hyatt Regency, Chicago

The Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center’s annual Humanitarian Awards Dinner is one of the largest fundraising events in Chicago. This high-profile evening pays tribute to Holocaust Survivors as well as civic, community, and business leaders. Distinguished keynote speakers enrich the evening and address an audience of over 2,000 with their personal experiences and poignant observations about our world, both past and present. For more information, email dinner@ilhmec.org.

ST PATRICK’S DAY: THE NORTH SHORE WAY

WHEN: March 17, 7-10 Pm

WHERE: Downtown Lake Forest Join Fitzpatrick School of Irish Dance in the celebration of St Patrick’s Day. There will be drinks, snacks, and of course, music. Students will also show you how to jump and move beginning at 7 p.m. fitzpatrickschoolofirishdance.com

BOLIVIAN ART THROUGH THE AGES WITH DEB LEVIE

WHEN: March 23

WHERE: Lake Forest Library

Journey through the history of Bolivian art—from the earliest pre-missionary period through the time of European colonialization to the present day at this in-person Lake Forest Library offering. lakeforestlibrary. org/event/bolivian-art-through-agesdeb-levie

THE STEAM QUARTET

WHEN: March 24

WHERE: Gorton Center

The Steam Quartet is a powerful combo, featuring traditional Irish music from the international acoustic scene. Chicago artists John Williams, Katie Grennan, Steve Morrow, and Jeff Lindblade have thrilled audiences from Shanghai to Chicago and from Paris to Pittsburgh. Concertina, fiddle, bodhran, and guitar ignite to raise the rafters and warm the heart. Their energy, heartwarming stories, amazing friendship, and unbelievable talent will melt your heart and make your toes tap with joy!

gortoncenter.com

The Good Life About Town

The Good Life The Portrait

people you would like to have

edited by Mitch Hurst

In 2018, Lake Forest resident and native of Portugal Sonia Afonso founded her lifestyle label, Hoshi Collective, inspired by her love of travel, culture, and fashion. Alfonso is a citizen of the world, having lived in Sweden, Norway, Switzerland, and Japan, and those experiences influence her designs. Cultural preservation and sustainability are values infused into the business, which she runs with her business partner, Rute Ribeiro Martins, who is also from Portugal. Products include hats, scarves, kimonos, and accessories designed with inspiration from countries such as Cuba, Portugal, Japan, and Ecuador. More recently, Afonso formed a collaboration with her Lake Forest neighbor, designer Dalia Lerner, whose Arte Materia features handmade products influenced by Lerner’s Mexican heritage. “The Hoshi Collective & Arte Materia collaboration was born of the connection between two brands that exalt the significance of artisan handmade goods, the intricacies of their technique, sustainability, timeless beauty, and richness in Mexican culture,” Afonso says. “It allows me to apply my design and creative philosophy to a culture new to me, while collaborating with another Lake Forest entrepreneur.” This month, Afonso shares a few of her favorite things.

What do you consider your biggest business success related to Hoshi Collective? The entire experience of starting a business from scratch. What do you consider to be the toughest lesson you learned on the way to building your business? To be flexible to change and demand but not compromise my vision or expression. What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? Fortune favors the brave. You’ve traveled all over the world and have said Japan is one of your favorite places. Where did you have your favorite meal and what was it? In Japan it is difficult not to have a good meal, but I will choose a tempura meal at Tempura Fukamachi in Tokyo. As a fun fact, the tempura technique was introduced to Japan by the Portuguese 400 years ago. If you could describe yourself in one sentence, what would it be? A creative, adaptable person that seeks continuous learning and ways to express her creativity. You speak a number of different languages. What’s your favorite language and why? My mother tongue, Portuguese, to make sure my kids remain connected to my cultural heritage. What’s your favorite leisure time activity? Spending time in front of the fireplace with a good book and a meal with friends and family. Where is your favorite spot in Lake Forest? The lake. I love to register with my camera the impact that the seasons have on the landscape, like the amazing sunrises or the frozen waters. Beach, mountains, or city for vacation? One of each, every year. This year we have done New York City, we will do Jackson Hole for spring break, Lisbon and Comporta, Portugal, during summer. Favorite color? Black. Favorite music? Jazz, classical, and good disco music, like Studio 54. Favorite beauty product? A perfume, I have a really nice collection (a weakness). Last Netflix series you watched? Yellowstone, The Makanai Paper planner or digital? Paper. Greatest source of inspiration? People from places I have lived, museums, and galleries. 3 people you would like to have over for dinner? Pablo Picasso, Steven Spielberg, Cristiano Ronaldo. Two things on your bucket list? A trip on board the Venice Simplon Orient Express and a safari. Latest book? The Bohemians, by Jasmin Darznik. Top 3 favorite things in Lake Forest or Lake Bluff? Gorton Community Center, where I take art classes, Lake Forest Book Store, Lake Bluff Farmers Market. Favorite designers? Maria Grazia Chiuri from Dior, Amy Smilovic from Tibi, Elin Kling from Toteme. Favorite workout? Strength.

Where is your favorite spot in Lake Forest? The lake. I love to register with my camera the impact that the seasons have on the landscape, like the amazing sunrises or the frozen waters. McCormick Ravine comes to an end at Lake Michigan. Photo

Lake Forest resident and global citizen Sonia Afonso dishes about her Hoshi Collective design label, a new collab with Arte Materia, and the joy of life.

Favorite beauty product? A perfume, I have a really nice collection (a weakness). Daum Rose Passion Perfume Bottle 3.2 out of 5 Customer Rating $880 SAKSFIFTHAVENUE.COM

3

over for dinner? Pablo Picasso, Steven Spielberg, Cristiano Ronaldo.

courtesy of Lake Forest Open Lands

Two things on your bucket list? A trip on board the Venice Simplon Orient Express and a safari.

Latest book? The Bohemians, by Jasmin Darznik.

The Portrait

Sonia Afonso

THIS VIEW

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Over 16 miles of trails and 7 nature preserves open 365 days a year. Please join us and connect to nature today.

LAKE BLUFF

SENSATIONS

These

Travel Chic Essentials

edited by Lauren DeMaria

is always a great idea and gets you feeling ready to start your vacation off right. This nifty travel bag contains whitening mint toothpaste and toothbrush. Marvis toothpaste delivers a sharp taste of cool mint for pleasant and lasting freshness (and your travel companion will thank you).

1. SEPHORA COLLECTION SHEER MATTE LIP BALM, $10, sephora.com

Flying dries the skin and that includes the lips. This is a must; a sheer, matte lip balm that instantly hydrates and smooths the lips.

2. SAMSUNG GALAXY BUDS LIVE TRUE WIRELESS EARBUDS US VERSION ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLING WIRELESS CHARGING CASE INCLUDED, MYSTIC BRONZE, $150, amazon.com Comfort isn’t solely about pillows and sleep masks—sound is a hugely significant component, especially if you’re trying to work or relax in transit. Never journey without a pair of noise-canceling headphones and prepare for your trip by downloading a selection of podcasts, movies, TV shows, audiobooks, and music.

3. THE ELDER STATESMAN STRIPED CASHMERE EYE MASK, $175, netaporter.com

Let’s face it: A genuinely restful nap in transit is virtually impossible without a comfortable eye mask. The coziest are crafted from cushioned cotton, cashmere, and washable silk or lined with velvet—trust us, it’s worth the extra spend.

4. MARVIS TOILETRIES & TOOTHPASTE KIT, $25, mozzafiato.com

This is for everyone else’s sake as much as your own. Fresh breath

5. LA PRAIRIE SKIN CAVIAR ESSENCE-IN-FOUNDATION

BROAD SPECTRUM SPF 25, $250, neimanmarcus.com

After that long flight head to the restroom and reach for this magic. Hydrating emulsion foundation that not only provides natural-looking complexion enhancement, smoothing and leaving you look fresh as a daisy. Caviar science and color artistry come together in this sublime fusion of Caviar Water. And because of the broad-spectrum SPF 25 protection, you are ready for the sunshine.

6. ST. TROPEZ LUXE BODY SERUM, $48, $250, sephora.com

Need to get a head start on your sun kissed look? A hydrating selftanning serum will visibly boost your skin from the outside in. Tan will subtly develop over four to eight hours.

7. SKIN PAULINE CROPPED CHEVRON CASHMERE SET, $800, neimanmarcus.com

Want to know the secret to looking effortlessly chic on the go? The answer is cashmere. It’s never bulky, which makes it easy to travel with and won’t take up too much room in your suitcase. Cashmere in its purest form is a natural insulator, keeping you cool during the day and warm on chilly nights This look by Pauline works just as well for casual days out as they do for evenings.

What everyone should have in their arsenal this spring break.

MEANINGFUL LUXURY

Angela Alvarez merges her passion for beautiful handbags with purposeful production.

words by Ann Marie Scheidler / photography by Monica Kass Rogers

Lake Forest’s Angela Alvarez knows beauty when she sees it. A native of Nicaragua, Alvarez moved to the United States with her family when she was a teenager because of the war taking place in her home country. Nearly two decades went by before she had the chance to return.

“10 years passed, then 12, and I honestly thought I would never go back to Nicaragua,” Alvarez says. “On my first visit, the experience was surreal—to return and see places I had worked hard to preserve in my mind. Some places were as I remembered and others were completely different.”

It was on this trip that Alvarez had a serendipitous encounter with an artisan making handbags.

“I met this man who was making highly ornate handbags from exquisite materials with impeccable craftsmanship,” she explains. “I knew that if he was willing to simplify his designs, his product would appeal to a clientele that would appreciate his work, as well as the materials he was using. I hoped this would command a higher price and a volume that would create a consistent income he could count on. We celebrated 15 years of working together during Covid. It’s been nothing short of great.”

While Alvarez never studied fashion formally, there has always been an element of design and a true passion for color and texture in her life.

“When I was in college in Miami, I worked for a luxury shoe manufacturing firm,” Alvarez says. “We were the makers for private labels, big names of the day—Florsheim, Nunn Bush, Castañer, and others. My job was to work with Spain to source raw material. I had a good eye and spoke Spanish, English, and French. I got to experience the production process in its entirety. I translated and worked closely with the tanneries, which allowed me to become well-versed in skin and hide color, texture, and caliber. I loved every minute of the work then and I cannot believe my good fortune that I’ve been able to circle back to this industry after so many years. I know this is a God-wink and I am so grateful.”

In Alvarez’s first years working with the Nicaraguan artisan, she developed a prototype for whom she thought she could collaborate with on design and how this relationship would work. Today, in addition to producing bags in Nicaragua, she also has workrooms in Columbia and has recently started working with an artisan in the United States.

“It’s important to me that my business means something to the person who is doing the work,” she says. “If I can contribute to someone’s economy, I prefer it to be with a small outlet where there is a significant impact being made directly on the maker as a result of his/her work.”

An example of such an impact can be seen in the lives of those who are employed by Alvarez’s Nicaraguan and Colombian workrooms.

“Something I am very proud of is our K-12 scholarship program for the children of our artisans,” Alvarez says. “And in our workrooms, we have a master artisan-apprentice program. If an apprentice has the opportunity to move on to somewhere else where their lives and those of their families can be better, that’s what we want for them.”

Alvarez—married to fellow Nicaraguan Eduardo and mother to four—is especially committed to working with indigenous women in Colombia and Ecuador. Through her connections with fair trade organizations that highlight the craft of these indigenous people, she has discovered incredible hand-woven fabrics and beadwork that she has incorporated into her lines.

“I love technology! Even in the most remote parts of these Latin American countries, the artisans use smartphones,” Alvarez says. “We FaceTime and I get to see the work happening in real time. It’s made the accessibility to these artisans and the opportunity to work with them so much easier.”

Alvarez believes that by managing the growth of her business carefully, volume will not trump the quality of the bags, the impact on the makers’ lives, or the relationship she has with her clients. She currently serves a clientele throughout Illinois, New York, Florida, Texas, and Tennessee.

“I can tell if I show somebody a bag if it’s for her, about her, and the story behind how the bag has been made resonated with her,” she says. “I can also tell if she’s just trying to agree with me and that the bag will end up on a shelf. In my mind, for my business, few things scare me more than a client purchasing a bag that will never get used. I try to listen carefully and come up with a bag that will fit her lifestyle perfectly.”

Clients can meet with Alvarez and create a one-of-a-kind custom bag, or purchase one from existing inventory. If someone visits Alvarez’s showroom, they will be overwhelmed with the sheer beauty, color, texture, and stories behind each of her handbags where she has clearly thought of the many uses a woman may use her products. Everything from the mini crossbody of the moment in an exotic neutral skin, to a vibrant-colored oversized woven clutch—Alvarez has captured every woman. She has also recently debuted a sleek weekender bag that would make an unforgettable gift for the most discerning man in your life.

“I love that I get to be a part of the different stages of the making of these pieces,” she says. “I love going to Italy to source lining, hardware, zippers, adhesives—seeing the newest technology for stitching. I love working with the artisans in South America, knowing that this business is making their lives better. And I love knowing that a client has purchased a bag from me that is exactly as she wanted it to be.”

To learn more about Angela Alvarez’s bags, visit angelaalvarezdesigns. com. You may also reach her at 847-767-1814.

PROPOSED

NEW CONST!

UNDER CONTRACT

LOT 1 THEO DRIVE, BANNOCKBURN

Spectacular proposed new construction on coveted appx 3.36 acres in the prestigious Village of Bannockburn. Bring your own plans or select from multiple plans through our builder’s network. Located on a cul-de-sac at the end of a private drive. $1,599,000 Kiki Clark & Polly Richardson 847.804.0969

UNDER CONTRACT!

663

ROCKLAND AVENUE, LAKE BLUFF

Welcome to Lake Bluff’s desirable North Terrace neighborhood. This 5 bedroom, 4.5 bath Colonial has a first floor office or master suite, a private, appx quarter-acre lot with professional landscaping, a finished lower level with rec room and guest suite. 2-car attached garage. $874,000 Kim Shortsle & Carleigh Goldsberry 847.987.5702

NEW LISTING!

359 BIRKDALE ROAD, LAKE BLUFF

Spacious, updated, bright and sunny 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home in Lake Bluff’s West Terrace neighborhood. Enjoy fresh paint and carpet, updated fixtures, hardwood floors throughout, custom Kolbe wood windows, solid core doors and Baldwin hardware. $745,000 Kim Shortsle & Carleigh Goldsberry 847.987.5702

515 VALLEY ROAD, LAKE FOREST

Well designed, light and bright home in desirable Ponds! 3+1 bedrooms, 3.1 bath, hardwood fl oors throughout, fl oor to ceiling windows. Family room/offi ce has a beamed cathedral ceiling. Fin. basement with bedroom and recreation area. $779,000 Brunhild Baass 847.804.0092

NEW LISTING!

846 LARCHMONT LANE, LAKE FOREST

It’s a Ranch! Rarely available cul-de-sac location in the desirable North King Muir neighborhood. 3 Bedrooms, 2.1 Baths. Great entertaining home on just over a half-acre of gardens, greenery and mature trees. Move right in to this 2350 sq ft gem or bring your ideas to this opportunity! $699,000 Kiki Clark & Polly Richardson 847.804.0969

401 ADELPHIA AVENUE, LAKKE BLUFF

Move right in to this super cute and fully updated ranch! Beautiful kitchen overlooks the large fenced in yard and patio. Hardwood fl oors throughout the open fl oorplan fi lled with natural light. 2 bedrooms/1 bathroom. $389,000 Pat Carollo 847.951.8817

NEW LISTING!

SKIP PERFECTIONISM

words by Elizabeth Lombardo / photography by Lisa Sciascia

As a clinical psychologist and coach who works with teens, one trend I am seeing in our adolescents is a rise in perfectionism. While some associate perfectionism with having a neat junk drawer (think every pen neatly aligned and paper clips stacked according to size and color), it is actually much broader than that.

In my book Better Than Perfect: 7 Strategies to Crush Your Inner Critic and Create the Life You Love, I define perfectionism as an all-or-nothing, perfect-or-failure, perfect-or-forget-it mentality.

A great example of society’s pervasive perfectionism can be seen in New Year’s resolutions. January 1, people give up all sugar and junk food. Then January 2 materializes. One cookie is consumed, and the perfectionistic mindset justifies, “I had one cookie and ruined my diet; might as well eat the whole plate.”

Social media is at least partially to blame for this rise in perfectionism in our youth. Seeing snapshots of the perfect vacation, the perfect party, the perfect outfit can result in the belief that everyone else is better than they are. (As I often remind people, everyone looks good with a filter.)

Even without social media, however, our teens are comparing themselves more and more to others, often feeling as though they fall short. This can cause heightened stress, anxiety and less-than-stellar performance.

How does perfectionism show up in our student athletes? Here are a few examples.

Making one mistake during a competition and not being able to let it go. The focus on one error is fueled by the belief, “I messed up. I will never get recruited now.” Performance plummets as a result.

An athlete does not make their desired club team. “I am a failure; I might as well quit the sport.”

Anxiety over being able to perform in their sport leads to procrastination and even avoidance of executing key training components.

Overtraining in an attempt to perform better, which results in injury and/or burnout.

Perfectionism is often associated with anxiety, worry about what might happen, depression, eating disorders, burnout, and procrastination. All of these can lead to further hindrances in optimal sports performance.

So how can we help our youth overcome perfectionism?

Tell a perfectionist something doesn’t have to be

perfect, and they will likely outwardly agree. However, deep down, they will vehemently disagree. Why? Because a perfectionist thinks in all-or-nothing terms, something is either perfect or it’s a failure. And then a perfectionist takes it one step further, believing, “If it’s a failure, then I’m a failure.” You see, it is actually the intense fear of failure that perpetuates perfectionism. At EleVive, we provide mind skills training to help our athletes thrive. And when working with athletes, they learn specific strategies to be Better Than Perfect. What is Better Than Perfect? During an interview on this topic for The Today Show, Kathy Lee Gifford Looked at me before the camera started rolling. She asked, “Better than Perfect? I spent my whole life trying to be perfect, and now I have to be better than perfect?” But, in actuality, Better than Perfect is less stressful than perfectionism.

Better Than Perfect takes all of the “good” from perfectionism, the striving for excellence, pushing yourself to be even better, the drive to win. However, it gets rid of the toxic aspects of perfectionism, such as never feeling good enough, that inner critic taking over your mind, feeling like a failure from one mistake.

One component of being Better Than Perfect is embracing the motto: It’s not failure; it’s data. By data, I mean information that can be used to learn, to grow, to make things better now and in the future.

How does being Better Than Perfect benefit sports performance? Here are some examples.

A hockey player’s shot completely misses the goal. They realize their high level of stress lead to being impulsive. Using techniques that they learned through EleVive, they are able to control their distress and score the next goal.

A basketball player loses possession of the ball. Rather than beat themselves up, they quickly assess what happened and use that information to maintain possession next time.

A gymnast cannot execute their exact precompetition routine. Rather than feel anxious and convinced this means they will perform poorly that day, they do what they can and focus on their visualization instead of fearing they have jinxed their performance.

When athletes can learn to apply the skills of being Better Than Perfect, their stress level reduces, and their performance enhances. An extra bonus: they enjoy the play of the sport even more.

How can we help your athlete thrive even more? Contact us at EleVive.com.

Wellness

Striving for “Better Than Perfect” means crushing your inner critic so you can optimize your performance.

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STANFORD RANDY TACK FOR

MAYOR

NONPARTISAN LAKE FOREST CAUCUS ENDORSED

Fiscal Responsibility

Champion of taxpayer dollars as the 3rd Ward Alderman.

Proven Experience

Founding member of the Illinois Bone & Joint Institute, business owner, and orthopedic surgeon.

Balance Development & Preservation

Improve vitality of both business districts while respecting historic preservation and Lake Forest’s unique character.

COLLEGE CONTRIBUTION

words by Michone J. Riewer and Debs Renz / photography by James Gustin

In Illinois, divorcing parents’ obligations for a child’s financial support typically end after the child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever occurs last. However, there are two major exceptions to this rule.

First, parents may be ordered to pay child support for a non-minor child who is disabled. Second, parents may be ordered to pay a non-minor child’s educational expenses, defined as tuition, room and board, book fees, registration, application fees, and other university costs. The definition has been expanded to include the non-minor child’s living expenses while at school, their transportation costs, health costs, including insurance premiums for medical, dental, and vision, as well as any other expense the court at its discretion finds to be reasonable.

In this second scenario, the court has the discretion to determine the extent and allocation of the financial contribution of the parents to the non-minor child’s college costs. The court must find the costs to be “fair and reasonable” after considering the following factors: the financial resources of both parents; the standard of living the child would’ve enjoyed had the parents NOT divorced; the financial resources of the child; the child’s academic performance; and any other factor the court deems relevant.

Illinois statutory law provides certain limitations on a parent’s obligation to contribute to educational expenses for the non-minor child. The 2016 amendments to the statute limited the cost to in-state tuition at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Nonetheless, the court can deviate from this cost limitation if it finds that a parent has shown a “good cause.” For example, a parent’s obligation can be terminated if the non-minor child is no longer enrolled as a full-time student or is not in good standing with the school. This happens when the non-minor child’s GPA falls below a C average.

This aspect of Illinois divorce law is unique because it imposes a financial obligation on divorcing parents that does not exist for parents who are not divorced.

While the constitutionality of this differentiation has been challenged on numerous fronts, the court has consistently held the obligation is consistent with the expanded role of the court in the lives of divorced families. Under this role, the court enforces obligations that parents in an “intact” family would have likely performed jointly.

Remember that if you are considering divorce, are in the process of becoming divorced, or have already obtained a divorce, you might be entitled to obtain financial support for your college-bound children.

Michone Riewer is an Advisory Board Member for the American Academy of Certified Financial Litigators and an attorney with Strategic Divorce in Lake Bluff, 847234-4445, strategicdivorce.com.

Michone J. Riewer Styling by Theresa DeMaria Hair and Makeup by Leanna Ernest

In Illinois, financial obligations for educational expenses differ for families of divorce.

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464 CIRCLE LN, LAKE FOREST

The Good Life

The grand entrance of the Boca Raton

QUEEN BEE

Open since 1926, South Florida’s The Boca Raton has been the most elegantly reimagined, retaining its sense of classic style with a $200 million facelift.

words by Geneviève Dureau

If you haven’t been in South Florida lately now is the time to go. The Boca Raton, formaly known as the Ritz Carlton Cloister Inn, is entering “A New Golden Era,” according to owners, MSD Partners and the Northview Hotel Group.

The remarkably stunning renovation includes a redesign of the 200-acre property’s public spaces and a blockbuster lineup of new amenities, including a destination spa and standout restaurants.

In 1926 when it was called the Ritz Carlton Cloister Inn, the property instantly became the place for a well-heeled crowd to see

and be seen and to enjoy the oceanfront setting, unparalleled service, and fine dining. Over the next half century, the resort grew its footprint by adding more restaurants and rooms that were divided into five hotels, each with a distinct style.

Drawing inspiration from the idyllic coastal locale, Harbor House is The Boca Raton’s newest culinary concept, delivering island-inspired cuisine in a laid-back setting. Positioned lakeside between the newly manicured marina promenade and Harborside Pool Club, the restaurant serves as a lively spot to drink, dine, and be social with family and friends throughout the day. Coastal cuisine spotlights fresh seafood, salads, and seasonal main courses, while an extensive wine list and whimsy cocktails complement the menu.

At the heart of this immense facelift is Cloister, The Boca Raton’s first building and the center of the resort’s action. A mix of Spanish Mediterranean, Moorish, and Gothic influences, the building has been restored from top to bottom, including the barrel tile roofs, archways,

intricate mosaics, and beamed ceilings decorated with cypress trees. In addition, the pink façade that gave The Boca Raton its nickname as a “pink palace” has been repainted in the original coastal white, as it appeared in 1926.

What’s a destination resort without a destination spa?

To that end, the 50,000-square-foot Spa Palmera is the new incarnation of a mini-Alhambra, the incredibly picturesque palace in Granada, Spain.

Colin Cowie, a celebrity event planner, and interior designer is leading the redesign and says that the Alhambra is a historic site that’s one of his favorite places in the world. “I love the culture, architecture, gardens, and romance,” he says. “I wanted to replicate that in Boca Raton.”

The Great Hall, where guests gather before and after treatments, transform into a space with 35-foot ceilings, patterned walls and balconies, and an oversized stone fireplace. Towering glass doors lead outdoors to a large garden with a swimming pool that’s currently being planted with an abundance of trees and flowers found at the Alhambra, such as cypress trees, night-blooming jasmine, and wisteria. In addition to 44 treatment rooms, this escape to the south of Spain features a new Himalayan salt room and Vichy shower.

Another new amenity worth mentioning is the Harborside Pool Club, which features three swimming pools, a floating river, a pool bar, and luxury cabanas with butler service. It’s already a mainstay for guests and club members, including those who have been regulars at the resort for decades.

More changes are underway for this South Florida icon, but until then, a fresh cadre of travelers, as well as those who have returned many times will have plenty to look forward to during their stay.

Palmera Spa Great Room

The Boca Raton Beach Club

20

W OLD MILL ROAD, LAKE FOREST NEW LISTING!

This expansive and stately home defines luxury at its finest. Built in 2002, it is an impressive country estate constructed of the highest quality materials and craftsmanship. It has a brick and limestone exterior, a slate composite roof, copper gutters, and a four-car heated garage. It is serenely poised on a manicured 1.8-acre parcel framed by a remarkable stand of mature trees. It features an in-ground swimming pool, a heated patio, and an outdoor fireplace. The breathtaking interior decor is finished to fulfill any decorator's fancy. Relish in the fresh display of soft and natural color palettes and gorgeous new lighting fixtures. The house is curated in a pleasing, elegant, yet chic way.

The interior features a grand foyer with a double staircase and an exquisite chandelier, 10 ft ceilings, 8 ft doors, hardwood & travertine floors, beautiful archways, tray and barrel ceilings, skylights, extensive moldings, wainscoting, and five fireplaces. Radiant heated floors throughout the main level, primary suite bath, and second-floor guest suite. The finished third floor provides additional living space. The home is listed in the Private Listing Network. Please call us for more details.

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PUNCHED TICKET

A chic and easy cocktail created for the Lake Forest Caucus annual Fundraiser.

words, photography, and recipe by Wendy Franzen of Fletcher & Fork

The Punched Ticket is a play on the classic threeingredient Negroni. Here the Negroni becomes a modern punch with the addition of Prosecco, freshly squeezed orange juice, and macerated cherries. Made before guests arrive, this this self-serve batched cocktail relieves hosts of bartending duty, allowing them to join in the fun. Now the only thing left to stir up is conversation!

makes 12-16 servings

SPECIAL EQUIPMENT

• Ice ring mold or bundt pan

• Large punch bowl

INGREDIENTS

• 6 cups frozen pitted dark sweet cherries, thawed

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 10 small oranges, sliced into thin wheels

• 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice, strained of pulp

• 1 cup Campari

• 1 cup sweet vermouth

• 1 cup gin

• 1 750-ml bottle chilled Prosecco

• 1 1-liter bottle plain seltzer

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Make ice mold: Distribute 2 cups of the thawed cherries and 8 to10 orange slices throughout the ice ring mold or Bundt pan. Fill with filtered water, allowing a bit of the orange slices to peek out. Freeze for 6 hours until solid.

2. Place remaining 4 cups of thawed cherries and the sugar in punch bowl, stirring to combine. Set aside until sugar has dissolved completely and juices have formed—about 15 minutes.

3. Pour orange juice, Campari, vermouth, gin, Prosecco, and seltzer into the bowl with the cherries, stirring gently to combine.

4. Unmold ice ring by dipping bottom of pan in warm water for a few seconds. Carefully invert onto a plate, then place in punch bowl with exposed orange slices facing up.

5. Ladle into ice-filled lowball glasses and garnish with remaining orange slices.

When

and integrity work together...

I have worked with Chris Puszynski for many years... Her work ethic is unmatched. Chris always goes the extra mile for her clients. She is a consummate professional who handles each transaction personally.

Chris is very knowledgeable relative to market conditions and also in advising her clients on matters of contract negotiation.

CAULIFLOWER, BACON + PEPPERJACK GRATIN

words, photography, and recipe by Monica

Kass Rogers

Step aside, mac and cheese! This saucy cauliflower bake—with bacon, onion, and pepper jack cheese under a crisp crumb topping—is vegetal-ly better. Quite literally edible flowers, heads of cauliflower are the mildestflavored members of the cruciferous vegetable family.

Yes, bacon, cheese, mustard-cream, and Panko makes this comfort food—but with vegetal benefits. Like its more aggressive sibs, cauliflower is full of antioxidants, essential vitamins and minerals, anti-inflammatory compounds, fiber and more.

To make the gratin, you’ll simmer the cauli-florets with bacon and onion in chicken stock and milk, make the sauce, top with panko, and bake until bubbly. We like to serve the gratin with freshly sliced tomatoes and steamed green beans, but it works well as a side for roast chicken. If you have any leftovers, the gratin keeps well for second-day service.

serving 8

INGREDIENTS

• One large or two small cauliflower heads, washed, trimmed, and broken into small pieces to make at least 6 cups of florets

• 3 slices good quality bacon, medium dice

• 1 small white or yellow onion, peeled and chopped

• 1 cup chicken stock

• 2 cups whole milk

• ½ tsp. salt

• ½ tsp finely ground black pepper

• ¾ of a stick salted butter

• 6 Tbsp all-purpose flour

• 2 Tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 ½ cups freshly shredded pepper jack cheese OR sharp white cheddar cheese

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs

Method

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large soup pot over medium heat, combine cauliflower florets, bacon, onion, chicken stock, milk, salt, and pepper. Simmer until just tender. Remove from heat and pour through a colander, saving the liquid. Set cauliflower/onion/bacon aside, keeping the chicken stock/milk mixture by your cooktop. Melt butter in sauté pan. Add flour and whisk until roux is lightly toasted. Gradually ladle portions of the stock/ milk mixture into the roux, continually whisking and adding until you have used all 3 cups of liquid and have a smooth thick sauce. Whisk in Dijon mustard. Remove pan from heat and whisk in 1 cup of the cheese shreds. Gradually combine sauce with cooked cauliflower/onion/bacon, adding sauce until mixture is very creamy but not overly sauced. (If there is a small portion of extra sauce left, save for another use.) Pour mixture into casserole dish and smooth to level surface. Sprinkle surface of gratin with panko breadcrumbs; top with remaining half cup of shredded cheese. Place casserole in oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling. Serve hot.

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This spectacular home is UNDER CONSTRUCTION. The home can be finished for you or you can purchase "As-is" and finish yourself. Amazing design. Plans are available upon request . The floor plan is perfect for todays living and for entertaining! First floor bedroom! Very spacious primary suite on the 2nd floor with a generous bathroom and closet space. The basement also has a bedroom, library, entertainment room and play room. Stunning home with lovely yard which will be fenced. Full finished luxury basement. Top quality items...You can pick your finishes. 3 Car garage. Great opportunity to own new construction in Lake Forest. Near shops and transportation.

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Green Bay Rd

VOTRE TABLEAU ET PRET

(your table is ready)

words by Geneviève Dureau

The European-inspired café attached to The Peninsula Chicago, Pierrot Gourmet, recently celebrated its grand reopening with refreshed décor and a menu featuring classics. This Chicago locale has been a go-to mainstay for area residents, city visitors, and neighborhood office dwellers for the last two decades. The restaurant’s new atmosphere, designed by award-winning interior designer Bill Rooney, provides a modern approach to Pierrot Gourmet’s previous French country setting and is perfect for outdoor dining during the warmer months. The restaurants opening menus, created by Chef de Cuisine Jerick Vargas, feature many past favorites, including European-style flatbreads, tartines, soups, salads, and the signature rotisserie chicken, while introducing some new dishes and desserts that are sure to become instant musthaves. Between the delicious food, fresh pastries, and fantastic selection of regional wines, you can’t go wrong with a visit to the Parisian-style café for a casual yet elevated dining experience.

A selection of sweet treats

Famous rotisserie chicken

Outdoor patio

GALLOPING GOOD DAY

The Women’s Board of Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital is saddling up for its annual Kentucky Derby-themed benefit May 6 at Onwentsia Club. Guests will watch “The Run for the Roses” on television and donate funds for the Board’s behavioral health initiative.

words by Bill McLean / photography by Lisa Sciascia

ATONE-SETTER at a Kentucky Derby-themed event doesn’t get better than that of an actual horse greeting guests at the door.

Listen for friendly snorts and welcoming neighs to fill the air at Onwentsia Club in Lake Forest on May 6— Kentucky Derby Day, 2023—before the start of this spring’s Women’s Board of Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital’s annual benefit, Derby Day Celebration.

Once inside, guests will think they’re in Louisville, a furlong away from those famous Twin Spires, for “The Fastest Two Minutes in Sports.”

But they’ll stay much longer than that, dining on delicious Southern fare and participating in fun games with prizes. The evening will also feature a fantastic live auction, a highend bourbon-tasting, music and dancing.

The spectacular fundraising event will support Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital, continuing the Women’s Board’s commitment to championing leading-edge healthcare in the community.

The Board’s current initiative provides resources for behavioral health services at Lake Forest Hospital.

“We’re excited to bring this Derby theme back to life,” benefit co-chair and Lake Forest College alumna Jeni Hoogasian says, four years after attendees of the same occasion sipped mint juleps and either wore handsome blazers or sported stylish hats in a Churchill Downs-transformed setting. “This event is next level, a major task, but I’m having fun thinking about it every day and making sure we’re doing all we can to make it special.

Lisa Abdula, Rachel Baker, and Andra O’Neill

“We want people, as they’re leaving Onwentsia Club on Derby Day, to say, ‘Wow.’”

The Women’s Board raised more than $980,000 at last year’s annual benefit when the stalwart organization celebrated its 75th anniversary with a “Journey Through Time” gala at Onwentsia and backed Lake Forest Hospital’s 14,000-square-foot Simulation and Education Center.

Women’s Board President Lindsay Nero expects some 300 guests to fill Onwentsia Club on May 6.

“We’re proud, as we are every year, to support an important cause, this time behavioral health,” Nero says. “We’re rolling, coming off our strong 2022, with our chairs, Lisa Abdula, Rachel Baker, and Andra O’Neill, having hit it out of the park last year. I must commend our chairs, Jeni Hoogasian and Rae Lisenby, this year, too, for their time and dedication to Derby Day Celebration.

“They haven’t been with us very long, but their energy and fresh perspectives have been wonderful, as they work to build on the success we achieved with our popular Derby theme in 2019.”

Funds raised on May 6 will support behavioral health services at Lake Forest Hospital, enabling it to offer crucial access to necessary outpatient services, such as medication management, therapy and psychology services; and to shorten timelines to effective treatment.

“How lucky are we to have such a renowned hospital like Lake Forest Hospital right here in our back yard,” marvels benefit cochair Lisenby. “I’ve been at meetings where doctors and nurses at the hospital have come in, looked at all of us, and told us, ‘We could not do any of this without your help.’

“Hearing meaningful words like those gave me chills.”

The Women’s Board’s mission warms the heart of Alan Georges, M.D. Dr. Georges works in general and adult psychiatry at Lake Forest Hospital, and he’s certified in geriatric psychiatry.

“The women’s work has been laser-focused and amazing to see,” he says. “They fully understand the need for expanding behavioral health services at the hospital. They also know the importance of raising awareness of behavioral health in general. This critical issue continues to be addressed at the local and national levels.

“Our message to patients is, ‘Being healthy goes beyond the physical; you aren’t fully healthy until you’re behaviorally healthy.’”

The mission of the Women’s Board of Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital—comprised of more than 140 talented and committed active, honorary, and sustaining members—is to support the hospital through fundraising, volunteerism, education, and advocacy. Its activities seek to enhance the facilities and services of the hospital, helping to ensure that the highest quality of health care is available.

“There’s a huge range of the ages of women on our Board,” Hoogasian says. “I love that about the Board, love the historical aspect. Some have served for nearly 50 years. These women are smart, passionate … they inspire me. I truly feel honored to be a part of it and a part of an initiative that will bring more physicians and clinicians to our hospital.

“Our Board’s women,” she continues, “are like-minded and never hesitant to go the extra mile.”

Swift horses train to race one and one-quarter miles in the Kentucky Derby each spring. The victorious 3-year-old then receives “The Garland of Roses” and poses for a few thousand photos after entering the Winner’s Circle.

Memo to this year’s winner: Shed your blinkers and horseshoes and make room—the figurative kind—in there for members of a certain Women’s Board in Illinois.

For more information visit nm.orglfhwomensboard.

Northwestern Womens Board Co-Chairs Jennifer Hoogasian and Raeonin Lisenby

Photography by Lisa Sciascia

by Elizabeth Lombardo, Ph.D.

TRANSFORMING SPACES

Lake Forest interior designer

words

LAKE FOREST INTERIOR DESIGNER

LISA WOLFE brings her clients joy with her craft of making homes a lot more vibrant. Redefining classic interiors with a hint of a bohemian twist, her vision has made its way into homes throughout the North Shore and Chicago areas, as well as Miami, parts of Michigan, and other cities spanning the country.

Before her design career began, Wolfe worked as an account director for a corporate advertising agency with big-name clients notched on her belt. Working on the dayto-day corporate work and project management left her feeling uninspired, so she unleashed her creative side by switching careers to interior design.

After graduating from Harrington Institute of Interior Design in Chicago, she worked for a few design firms, and in 2004, started her namesake boutique interior design house, Lisa Wolfe Design.

Practicing her artistry now for almost 20 years, Wolfe has made a name for herself.

The vast majority of her roster continues to be returning clients or referrals from past clients. At this point, she feels she’s growing alongside her clients as she’s there to help them expand their homes, downsize to smaller spaces, take on that lake house, or even find themselves adjusting to living the single life.

Her work is often recognized for her use of vibrant jewel tones, combining time periods, blending old with new, and layering textures with pattern on pattern on pattern. “It’s just my energy and how I naturally approach design,” she explains.

Her favorite elements of any design project? Lighting and wallpaper.

“They set the mood and the color palette and they surround you

Lisa Wolfe has been turning the ordinary into the extraordinary for her clients for more than 20 years.

by Janis MVK photography by Katrina Wittkamp hair and makeup by Leanna Ernest

with movement and tonality immediately,” she says. “You can do a beautiful wallpaper and a chandelier and pull back on everything else and still have a fabulous room.”

For Wolfe, wallpaper is where she usually starts, but it could also be a stenciling or even a mural. “Very rarely do I put a coat of paint on a wall and be truly happy with it,” she says. “I always want to bring it in somewhere.”

That’s also where the art comes in. “I love art and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune,” she says. “I have clients who think they have to spend a lot of money on art, but you just have to seek it out because you never know when you’re going to find something.”

Wolfe has sourced some of her favorite pieces from flea markets, street fairs, and antique malls, but her favorite go-to for art is meandering the galleries of Charleston where she always finds something that excites her. However, it’s not always an easy task to find the right piece for a client.

“It’s hard to source art for clients even when you think you really know them,” she says. “You go through this whole process to understand what they love and how they live; you design a beautiful space and then start talking about accessories and art and you have any idea, but art can be so subjective.”

Wolfe is sometimes surprised by what kind of art her clients are drawn to.

“I’m learning a different side of my client’s brain when it comes to art and I love that. I always try to get into their heads and see their vision through their eyes,” she continues. “But you fall in

love or pick a piece of art for so many reasons. It may remind you of a place or a time in your life or it has a certain emotion that just grabs you.”

As for finding the main inspiration, there’s always a different trigger for every project.

“It could be something a client shows me or a painting from Aunt Mary, but sometimes it’s on me to find the inspiration,” she says, “and I truly enjoy that, too.”

An avid traveler, Wolfe takes photographs of architecture, furniture, and rooms when abroad. She’ll go back to those photos to see if there is something there that can jumpstart her creative process. “I have to have something I can wrap my head around and it can be just about anything,” she says.

Then comes the wallpaper!

There are various steps throughout the design process with Wolfe, but there are two important reasons her initial meetings with new clients take place in their homes—to visually see the space to understand the scope of the project, and to make sure the chemistry is just right.

“I want to make sure it’s going to be a fun project for the both of us,” she says. “At the end of the day, it’s just design and design should be fun and we should have a good time doing it together.”

After understanding the client’s style, direction, and goals, then comes the floor plans and budgeting.

“It’s important to me that I deliver in the budget range that was agreed to and that my clients understand I know the value of a dollar,” she says. “There are times to splurge and times to pull back.”

Following this phase, Wolfe moves into the actual selections where she ultimately presents a preliminary concept to the client. She admits that more and more she comes to the table with a strong recommendation for each element—her version of exactly what she would pick if it were entirely up to her—but almost always has several options at different price points in her back pocket. Her favorite part? The client reveal.

“Cliche, but true,” she says. “It’s like watching someone open up a gift you worked so hard on.”

Wolfe goes for the unexpected, always.

“I strive to create something different that I haven’t seen or done before; something the client would never expect,” she says. “In my head, I’m always looking for that twist that the client never saw coming often pushing them out of their comfort zone, but that’s my job and there’s nothing better than having my client turn to me and say, ‘you were so right!’”

For more information about Lisa Wolfe Design call 312-593-1710 or visit lisawolfedesign.com.

“I’m learning a different side of the client’s brain when it comes to art and I love that.”

Lisa Wolfe in her home library

At the Lake, on the Golf

Based upon the belief that clients’ needs vary, JH Collective relies upon a support core of superb marketing and technology teams, bringing you the best of the best. Lead by Janis Hartley, a leading Geneva Lakes real estate agent with 20 years of experience, JH Collective aims first and foremost to be a trusted resource and real estate advisor to you, our clients and customers.

JH Collective represents decades of experience in many property types. We are adept negotiators and highly respected, award-winning REALTORS® guiding you to the best possible outcome in your real estate transition.

Passion Projects

Former Lake Forest resident Kelly Rizzo channeled her love for food, travel, and music to build her influential brand, EatTravelRock. She also continues her late husband Bob Saget’s legacy of helping others.

words by Mitch Hurst / photography by Maria Ponce / hair and makeup by Leanna Ernest

W

ITH NEARLY 450,000 followers on Instagram, culture writer and video creator Kelly Rizzo is a tastemaker when it comes to what people eat and drink, where they might find their next travel adventure, and what music they listen to. Under her brand, EatTravelRock, Rizzo also publishes a blog, travel guides, recipes, and other content that aims to tingle the imagination and the tastebuds.

This past year, the 43-year-old Rizzo took on a new, unanticipated role: Processing grief, and helping others with similar experiences to hers process theirs. In January 2022, Rizzo’s husband, the well-known actor and comedian Bob Saget, passed away suddenly while on tour. His death shocked both her and Sagat’s legion of fans. She’s spent the past year honoring his memory.

We caught up with Rizzo via Zoom in late January to talk about her growing business but also about her late husband and how he continues to be a presence in her life and work. A Chicago native, Rizzo is familiar with Midwest winters, and looked rather content to be sitting in her sun-drenched home in Los Angeles, where she said the weather had recently taken a turn for the better.

Rizzo’s early years were spent in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood. At 12, she moved with her family to Glenview, where she attended Glenbrook South High School. When she was 20, her parents, who own a real estate company, moved to Lake Forest. In all, she spent about 15 years on the North Shore before moving back to Chicago and then to L.A. after she met Saget. Chicago remains home in her heart.

“When I think of home, I consider Chicago my home. When

someone asks where I’m from I say, ‘Chicago’,” she says. “That will never, ever change, I don’t care how long I live in L.A. I’m a Chicago girl.”

One of the things Rizzo told Saget when she moved to L.A. is that family and Chicago are extremely important to her, and she couldn’t imagine going months without seeing them. She flies back to Chicago for a week or so every month for work, bouncing between her parent’s house in Lake Forest and her sister’s place in Highland Park.

Like many children of business owners, Rizzo got her professional start working for her family’s real estate company. She obtained her real estate license at the age of 20, going to work with her parents. Although successful, she would learn after seven or eight years that the real estate world wasn’t where she belonged.

“My family’s been in real estate in Chicago for over 40 years, and I became a realtor and broker in Illinois in 1999,” she says. “After the crash in 2008, I burned out. It just was not my thing anymore. At the time it seemed crazy to do anything else because that’s all I’d ever done and all I’d ever known.”

In her gut, Rizzo says, she knew she wanted to follow her passions which, when she thought hard about it, were food, travel, and music. In 2012, she started EatTravelRock and began blogging and making videos that included tips and ideas, including recipes and hotel recommendations.

“I realized that this is really what I love to do. Just to be in this world and talk to chefs and talk to musicians and tell people about the greatest hotels and greatest restaurants and the easiest and best and coolest ways to travel,” Rizzo says. “It kind of just picked up and became an actual full-time career, I left real estate behind. My dad

Kelly Rizzo standing in her power

Photography by Maria Ponce

Fashion Editor Theresa DeMaria

Hair and Makeup by Leanna Ernest, Distinct Artists

was really sad about that at first, my mom was very encouraging of the new career, and now of course they’re both incredibly encouraging. They both love it.”

People tend to question the judgement, if not the sanity, of those who leave a stable job to pursue a new venture, and Rizzo was no exception. But she ignored the skeptics. Not following her passion was out of the question.

“Part of the message is if it’s something you’re really passionate about and you really believe in yourself and you believe there’s something there, you just keep going for it,” she says. “When you clearly have that drive and determination and passion about it, it’s going to come through, and now it’s nice to see some of the fruits of my labor.”

Along the way—in 2016—Rizzo and Saget met through mutual friends. Love would ensue, which led to a few challenging discussions about geography. Being a Chicago lifer, Rizzo had thought a few times about what it would be like to live in New York or L.A., but there was nothing in her plans to do so. Then Saget came along.

“I met Bob, and he was L.A.-based, and he was so charming that I decided to keep pursuing that and I knew he wasn’t going to move to Chicago,” she says. “He was like, ‘You’re going to need to move to L.A.,” and I said, ‘It’s tempting, the weather is tempting’, so I made the decision. ”Bob always felt a tinge of jealousy with Chicago. He was never jealous of any other people, but he would say he was jealous of Chicago because he thought I liked Chicago more than anybody or anything.”

Jealousy aside, you can hear in Rizzo’s voice that her and Saget’s love affair was the genuine article. It comes out in full in the media interviews she gave on the anniversary of Saget’s death. But he was also an important influence on Rizzo’s business life, giving much needed encouragement based on his more than 40 years in the entertainment business.

“Because he knew show business so well, he would always teach me when I would get discouraged. He would say, ‘Kelly, you’ve been out here a few years, are you serious?’” she says. “He’d say, ‘You just keep going. Don’t get discouraged. Don’t take no for an answer. You have to stay positive.’”

Since Saget’s death, Rizzo has continued to expand EatTravelRock but she says the tone of her content has become more personal knowing that many of her followers have become familiar with her story and have had similar experiences and want to interact. It’s one way to keep her late husband’s legacy alive.

“Bob’s an easy person to talk about and honor and sharing his legacy is the easy part. For what I do forever and ever I’ll always be talking about Bob,” she says. “Bob had so much loss and death and grief in his life, and he always looked at it as an opportunity to not only better himself but to help other people.”

Saget was a “grief expert,” Rizzo says, and he used that experience to help anyone else who was grieving or going through a hard time. She says she’s trying to learn from him.

“I think he was a pro at it. He always knew what to say and I’m still not great at it but I’m getting better,” she says. “All of the lessons he taught me from his lifetime of experience, of

really going through it on the career side and on the life side, that’s stuff that I will take with me forever.”

As for her future plans, Rizzo says a show is always the ultimate goal and something she’s been working on for a long time. In the near future, she has a podcast in the works that she’s very excited about that focuses on inspiration and grief, with a bit of a food tie in.

“Something that actually really helps people, not that recipes and travel tips don’t help people, but helps people in a deeper way,” she says. “There’s also hopefully a cookbook plus some other interesting things related to the book that I can’t give away just yet, but a lot of endeavors coming down the line that I’m really excited about.”

She also wants to inspire younger women and girls not to doubt their own dreams and to follow their passions, even if it means ignoring their naysayers. When you’re young, it’s easy to feel the tug of doing what others want you to do instead of following your own path.

“Maybe your family has a business like mine did and people really want you to get involved with the family business because it’s what you do. If that’s not what your heart is telling you to do, that’s okay,” says Rizzo. “Some people might not understand that in the beginning but if it makes sense to you and it’s what you truly want to do in your heart, if you lead with conviction and purpose and passion, then all the people who might be a little doubtful in the beginning will come around.”

On the wall in Rizzo’s home is a reminder for her when making the tough or even everyday choices that can alter our lives—and the lives of others—for the better. It’s a familiar face.

“I have a needlepoint that somebody did for me. It’s a picture of Bob and at the bottom it says WWBD, What would Bob do?” she says. “That’s what I think about all the time. What would he do? If he went through this, how would he use it to help people?”

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The wedding of Kelly Rizzo and Bob Saget with Rizzo’s family. Photography by Nicole Goddard

Kelly Rizzo lounges in cashmere sweater and tulle skirt, both by Brunello Cuchinelli, available at Neiman Marcus

Coming soon!

Stunning 3 bed/2.5 bath East Lake Bluff home is ready for your clients! Built in 1999, this home has been incredibly wellmaintained and loved. Not only is the home fabulous but it is also in one of the best locations East Lake Bluff has to offer! 3 blocks from town and Lake Michigan, and on the famous 4th of July Lake Bluff parade route! Hardwood floors throughout, 10 foot ceilings, transom windows, and so much natural light! The first floor flows perfectly with open living room, dining room with window seat, and open kitchen/family room with breakfast nook and French doors opening to the beautiful bluestone patios and backyard. A full primary suite with organized closets, en suite bathroom, and bonus space that can be used as an office, sitting room or dressing room is located upstairs along with 2 additional bedrooms and full bathroom. The spectacular deep pour basement is finished with spacious family room, laundry room plumbed for added bath/guest suite, and ample room for storage. Updates include kitchen appliances, both AC units, hot water heater, and furnace. A full list of features available upon request.

323 E SCRANTON AVE | EAST LAKE BLUFF

Destined For Greatness

Grayson Pruett empowers and inspires others through her motivational podcast, Meant for Big Things.

words by Janis MVK / photography by Katrina Wittkamp / hair and makeup by Leanna Ernest

GRAYSON PRUETT, a graduate of Lake Forest High School and a senior at Villanova University in Pennsylvania, makes no small plans. A political science and business student and entrepreneur, Pruett is on a mission to motivate, empower, and inspire those who want to make their dreams a reality and step into their best versions through her podcast, Meant for Big Things.

What started as a self-improvement motivational podcast has evolved into a business encompassing event curation, content creation, and merchandise business. It all started with the podcast which was inspired by Pruett’s freshman year of study abroad in Switzerland. She, along with some friends, rented a boat and rode out to the middle of Lake Lugano. Pruett took a jump into the lake and it was at that very moment her life was forever changed.

“Once resurfacing, I only had my head above the water and realized how vast the world really is and how small I was,” says Pruett. “In that same breath, I also thought about the excitement of discovering the world and the idea that anything is achievable.”

On that same day, another great moment happened.

“I was scrolling through Instagram and saw a quote that said, ‘made for greatness’ and I felt so empowered,” she says.

Riding on the coattails of that energy, Pruett wanted to spread that feeling with the hopes of injecting something positive into the lives of her friends and peers.

“This phrase made me feel like I was meant for big things,” she explains, and that’s when the Meant for Big Things podcast was born.”

When Pruett arrived back in the states, things started to come together quickly. She signed up for a selfimprovement program, wrote out the goals she wished to accomplish, and shared them with her mother and her mother’s friend.

“I wanted to find a platform that best suited my

strengths and best helped other people,” she says. They then suggested she start a podcast. “It was a spur-ofthe-moment decision to follow my intuition and take a risk.”

However, Pruett wasn’t an avid podcast listener and didn’t have the experience or knowledge even to start one. But that didn’t stop her.

“I went right to my brother and used his gaming microphone to sit down and record the first episode on a free audio software I learned how to use in sixth grade,” explains Pruett. Equipped with a background in music and theater, she started to record content. Delivering her message came naturally to her.

Pruett released the first episode in January 2020 and two years later, the podcast now inspires more than 1,500 listeners globally, reaching 23 countries. The episodes consist of short inspiring stories packed with positive energy, motivation, and insights that listeners can use to elevate their lives

“I usually have a topic in mind and a personal anecdote in which I learned great life lessons,” she says. “I think about how the lessons of this story relate to teachings at the many self-improvement conferences I have attended and just start speaking from the heart.”

Then naturally, the topic unfolds and palpable lessons with actionable insights come full circle.

One of Pruett’s favorite episodes is her third episode, “How Words Can Transform Your Life.” The episode shares how she shifted her confidence through words.

“It discusses the importance of the words used to describe ourselves and how positive words can amplify one’s confidence and success,” she says, adding that the

“I wanted to find a platform that best suited my strengths and best helped other people...”

feedback was overwhelming. “I had multiple people message me saying how this episode has helped them feel less alone, how it’s changed their perspective, or how it’s cleared their minds, and I was really happy and fulfilled with the response.”

In addition to the podcast, Meant for Big Things offers events on Villanova’s campus focusing on peer-to-peer learning, an Instagram featuring nominated individuals who are “meant for big things,” and a merchandise line that provides community and tangible motivation. With a strong Instagram following and merchandise for sale to back up the success of the podcast, she has made big things happen.

Pruett has released six sold-out merchandise collections since 2020. The success of this has spurred her to create a website as a one-stop shop offering products, direct links to the podcast, content creation, and more.

“All in all, I want people to feel their inner power and prime themselves to live a life that was meant for big things,” she says.

You can find Meant for Big Things on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Follow @meantforbigthings on Instagram or visit meantforbigthings.com.

Pruett at home in Lake Forest wearing tweed jacket by Alice & Olivia, available at Neiman Marcus

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words by Steven Bloch, M.D.

One of the most frequent requests that I get is for a “Tummy Tuck.” Many patients find that despite diet and exercise they cannot achieve the shaped, toned, flat abdomen they desire.

In assessing a patient for a “Tummy Tuck” multiple factors are taken into account.

1. What is the status of the overlying skin and the degree of laxity? Is the laxity confined to the lower or upper part of the abdomen or both?

2. What is the status of the under lying muscles? Do they meet in the midline or are they separated from pregnancies or intra-abdominal fat?

3. What is the distribution of excess fat? Is it diffuse or localized in the lower upper abdomen? Does it extend to the flanks?

Depending upon the above assessment a customized operation can be performed to address these concerns. Multiple procedures or techniques can be employed.

The procedures vary from non-invasive to full abdominoplasty or some combination. Methods include:

1. Non-invasive CoolSculpting or CoolTone.

2. Minimally invasive BodyTite or Renuvion for skin tightening.

3. Vaser liposuction for fat reduction.

4. Modified abdominoplasty for the lower abdomen.

5. Full abdominoplasty combining liposuction, repositioning umbilicus, skin tightening, and underlying muscle repair. The above procedures can often be combined to give you a customized operation to achieve the results you desire.

For additional information, visit www.skindeepmedical spa. com or call Glenview location 847-901-0800.

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FRAMING MOMENTS

words by Sherry Thomas / illustration by Tom Bachtell

Apage torn from that notebook you bought in Paris, filled with scribbles only decipherable to you. A child’s first grade art project. A faded photo of the great-grandmother you’ve heard stories about, but never met. These are the artifacts of our lives, the incidental ephemera that tends to accumulate in drawers or boxes, which then pile up attics, shuttering precious moments in time out of sight (but never out of mind).

Kathy Rafferty, owner of Lake Forest Frame & Design Studio, has been helping customers preserve and protect these types of memories for more than two decades—often taking the time to meet and get to know the customer’s personal story and why the object being framed is so important to them. “Everything is special, or they wouldn’t be framing it ... so it means something,” says Rafferty, who will celebrate her 82nd birthday this month (along with her first great-grandchild). “So first I try to find out why they want to frame this particular piece, and then I look at the object—usually talking to them at the same time.” Through this process, Rafferty makes recommendations not only about a frame style or color but also special finishes that can turn a scrap of paper into a treasured

heirloom. “It’s very personal,” she adds. “Framing is very personal.” A trend she’s been seeing lately is a renewed interest in framing diplomas, and not just for the newly graduated. “I did one for a gentleman who was in his 80s. He said, ‘I think it’s about time I framed this ... it’s been in drawer for years’.” Rafferty and her team “did it up just like he was 22 years old.” His response is something she’ll never forget. “he was so excited,” she says. “I think it meant a lot to him, but it did to me too.” Rafferty explains that she was first inspired to get into the framing business by an experience she had while teaching art at Lake Forest High School. “They were having an art show and they had a matte cutter there, and I figured it out,” she says. “It made such a difference to those students, to see their work so nicely matted.” So, she began pursuing it professionally, and fell in love with the art of framing. “The people are so great to meet and I’m still going at it,” adds Rafferty, a Lake Forest native who is the oldest of eight children, now proud mother to five with nine grandchildren. “I still like it. I love what I do.”

Lake Forest Frame & Design Studio is located at 204 E. Westminster in Lake Forest. For more information, call 847-234-0755.

For more than two decades, Kathy Rafferty’s Lake Forest Frame & Design Studio has been helping customers preserve and protect the stories of their lives.

Timeless understated elegance defines this custom built home beautifully situated on a gorgeous, professionally landscaped private lot

2 acre wooded home site backing to Forest Preserve. Unique opportunity to build