At Fifth Third Private Bank, we’re here to help write your story. We’re an exclusive part of Fifth Third Bank, a diversified financial institution and one of the largest money managers in the Midwest. As a bank within a bank, Fifth Third Private Bank leverages the resources of a top financial institution to deliver a premium level of service to our clients. We’re here to provide personalized guidance every step of the way. This is your story, and we’re here to help ensure the best is yet to come.
Highly Credentialed Team
We bring more than 160 years of experience as trusted advisors to high net worth and ultra-high net worth individuals, families and businesses. Our collaborative approach gives you access to a full team of dedicated professionals who provide a uniquely tailored suite of financial services. With over $32 Billion in managed assets, we’ve been named one of the World’s Best Private Banks by Global Finance for four consecutive years.
Holistic Financial Planning
We believe that the best way to serve you starts by looking beyond the numbers. We take the time to understand what you want to achieve—both personally and financially. Then we build a custom plan designed to meet these needs today, tomorrow and for future generations. We’ll also work with your other trusted advisors to help ensure that we make coordinated financial decisions.
Comprehensive Wealth Solutions
From sophisticated wealth planning to custom investment advice and management, to lending, and trust services, our local team is committed to bringing together a comprehensive strategy that helps you and your family meet your financial goals. Our solutions and services are made to address complex financial needs, and provide the utmost flexibility to help meet your personal wealth management goals as they evolve over time.
From breathtaking beach resorts to stylish ski retreats and chic city escapes, indulge in unparalleled experiences with the IHG Luxury & Lifestyle Collection. Contact your Luxury Travel Professional to book.
Towne & Oak
921 Green Bay Road, Winnetka
Glo’s favorite Butternut Squash Tartine with whipped ricotta, roasted butternut squash, and crispy brussels sprouts with a sweet balsamic reduction is sure to delight.
Chicago Botanic Garden: Night of 1,000 Jack-o'-Lanterns
1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe
OCTOBER 16 – 20 & 23 – 27, 6:30 – 10:30 P.M.
Enjoy professionally carved pumpkins along with costumed entertainers and live pumpkin-carving demos thoughout the paved outdoor path. Seasonal light fare and drinks available for purchase.
Bunny
& Babe
555 Chestnut Street, Winnetka
Fall is “bright” around the corner with luxurious sweaters and coats at Bunny & Babe. Hunter Bell is our favorite for cool nights around town.
595 CIRCLE LANE, LAKE FOREST / $27,500,000
765 SHERIDAN ROAD, WINNETKA / $18,000,000
700 CRAB TREE FARM LANE, LAKE BLUFF / $19,900,000
419 SHERIDAN ROAD, WINNETKA / $35,000,000
Source: BrokerMetrics LLC, Closed Sales Volume, Residential Properties; Northfield, Deerfield, Kenilworth, Lake Forest, Glenview, Lake Bluff, Highland Park, Evanston, Wilmette, Glencoe, Northbrook & Winnetka, 9/1/2023 – 8/31/2024
number one luxury NORTH SHORE
Chicagoland’s #1 brokerage firm is now the world’s leading luxury real estate brand, connecting affluent buyers and sellers across the globe through Christie’s International Real Estate.
Experience Transcendent
Enter a world of exquisite comfort and ease connected to the iconic 5-star St. Regis Chicago hotel. The Residences at The St. Regis Chicago will captivate you with awe inspiring views, exceptional finishes, and bespoke amenities. Live high above it all, right in the middle of it all.
To schedule your personal tour, please contact Leila Zammatta with the Magellan Marketing Group at +1 312 854 8524.
Ultra-luxurious lakefront residences, from 1,097 SF pieds-à-terre to full floor, 6,800 SF, 360°-view penthouses. One-to-five-bedroom homes from $840,000 to $18,500,000. 363 E. Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60601 | srresidenceschicago.com
OCTOBER 2024
FEATURES
A CLICK AWAY
Retail veteran Alicia LeBeouf helps companies with digital transformation.
THE GOOD FIGHT
Laura Sage and the Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation go all out this fall in the quest for a cure.
IF THESE HALLS COULD TALK
As Deer Path Inn marks its 95th anniversary this year, we reflect on the legacy of an iconic Lake Forest institution that shares its history with the city and the North Shore’s prominent families.
POWER WOMEN
A showcase of the North Shore’s remarkable women.
Alicia LeBeouf featured in A Click Away wearing Burberry dress and jacket, Neiman Marcus Northbrook. Photography by Katrina Wittkamp, styling by Theresa DeMaria, hair & makeup by Margareta Komlenac
ZIMMERMANN Resort 2025 dress. Our Fashion feature highlights essentials for power women who will dominate the season with bold fashion.
Pets4Life Animal Hospital
Founder & Publisher
Editor-in-Chief
Associate Publisher
Contributing Editors
Executive Project Director
Style Director
Style Editor
Director of Social Media
Contributing Writers
Art Director
Production Manager/
Graphic Designer
Senior Graphic Designer
Graphic Designer
Contributing Photographers
Contributing Illustrator
Administrative Assistant
Advertising Sales Advisory Council
J.W. CONATSER
DUSTIN O’REGAN
JENNIFER STURGEON
MORGAN HOGERTY, MEGAN WEISBERG
KEMMIE RYAN
THERESA DEMARIA
ALLISON DUNCAN
REDDING WORTH
THOMAS CONNORS, MITCH HURST, MONICA KASS ROGERS, ANN MARIE SCHEIDLER, SHERRY THOMAS
JORDAN WILLIAMS
LINDA LEWIS
AMIN QUTTEINEH
ABDON LOERA, SAM SUAREZ
JAMES GUSTIN, MARIA PONCE, MONICA KASS ROGERS, KATRINA WITTKAMP
ROBERT RISKO
CHEYANNE LENCIONI
GRETCHEN BARNARD
RAHEELA ANWAR, EILEEN BENNIN, RENEE CROWN, JEFFREY EISERMAN, MAUREEN GRINNELL, DANA HUGHES, JOYCE BRUCE JIARAS, JILL KATZ, LEXIE KNOX, YOANNA KULAS, ARTHUR MILLER, MEREDITH MITCHELL, SANDRA CASPARRIELLO, RONI MOORE NEUMANN, IBBY PINSKY, MONIQUE WATTS, AND REDDING WORTH
WDeer Sculpture in the Deer Path Inn’s Courtyard Patio. The Deer Path
Anniversary is featured in If These Halls Could Talk
Dinner Date visits Bambola with food writer/ photographer Monica Kass Rogers. Hungry for adventure? First Class introduces Vietnam’s varied landscapes with a trek through the beautiful country’s ancient towns, seaside cities, and vibrant capital.
Venice Reconsidered: The History and Civilization of an Italian CityState by John Martin and Dennis Romano
READING WEARING ATTENDING
Del Core Flared Wool-Blend Suiting Pants, modaoperandi.com
The annual Sheridan Road Power Women Lunch hosted by Neiman Marcus Northbrook
elcome to our 5th annual Power Women issue highlighting extraordinary women from cover to cover. Wilmette’s Alicia LeBeouf, Meta’s Head of Retail & Ecommerce, graces our cover. From the moment we met, I couldn’t wait to share Alicia’s dynamic personality with our readers. In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, our second feature introduces Laura Sage, daughter of Lynn Sage and co-founder of the Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation. Mark your calendars for “An Evening of Hope,” the nonprofit’s October 24th fundraiser. We round out the features with a toast to the Deer Path Inn’s 95th anniversary. Cheers to a local treasure and its recent Travel + Leisure’s “World’s Best Awards” for 2024.
Shore vs. City spotlights Lake Forest’s Lesley Crowe, who shares a bit about her company, Designs by Pinky, that will be featured at the Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital’s annual Holiday Boutique. The event is at The Forester Hotel—a new location this year—with a Preview Party on November 21 and two full days of shopping on November 22 and 23.
Art & Artist showcases the massive talent of Anna Murphy. Her gorgeous murals bring life to building facades. Leaving outdoor spaces for the Antiques + Modernism show, Trending highlights Milena Palandech who shares a sneak peek into how she stays current between curating furniture collections. Don’t miss the Antiques + Modernism Preview Party on November 7 or the show from November 8 through the 10th.
Back on the Shore, prepare yourself for the 70-page Power Women section. A round of snaps for these dynamic women who contribute to the remarkable community we call home. Enjoy this month’s powerful issue.
DUSTIN
O’REGAN
Editor-in-Chief dustin@jwcmedia.com
Follow Sheridan Road on Instagram: @sheridanrdmag
Note: Previously, the article from our September issue, The Truth About Ketamine stated “In 2019, the FDA approved Ketamine for treatment resistant depression[…].” The statement should have read “In 2019, the FDA approved nasal esketamine for treatment resistant depression[…]” We regret this error.
Inn’s 95th
Laura Sage, co-founder of the Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation, featured in The Good Fight wearing Valentino, ikram
The North Shore’s Premier Event Spaces
• Now reserving for the holiday season •
From corporate cocktail parties to joyous family gatherings, Ballyhoo Hospitality has the perfect backdrop for your next event.
Our family of restaurants has space to accomodate everything from intimate groups of 12 to buyouts for 250, while offering exceptional service and notable cuisine.
Newsworthy features SkyBridge Michigan, another way to enjoy the Midwest’s fall colors.
AGENDA
SAVE the DATE
Sheridan Road provides the North Shore’s comprehensive social calendar.
EDITED BY JULIA PAULMAN
OCTOBER 7
VISIONARY: CELEBRATING LEADERSHIP IN THE ARTS
WHERE: The Four Seasons Hotel
Join the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago for a dynamic and in-depth conversation between artist Sarah Sze and the MCA’s Pritzker Director Madeleine Grynsztejn, and the presentation of the 2024 Arts Philanthropy Awards honoring BMO Bank N.A. for its support of arts education in Chicago, with Darrel Hackett, President and Chief Executive Officer, accepting the award on the bank’s behalf. The 2024 Arts Philanthropy Awards also honor Darrel Hackett and MCA Trustee Nickol Hackett for their generous philanthropy in Chicago. mcachicago.org
OCTOBER 16
BOOK DISCUSSION
WHERE: Lake Forest Library Register and join the Lake Forest librarians for a lively discussion of this year’s Lake Forest Reads title, Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt. This event is part of Lake Forest Reads—One Book, One Community program. lakeforestlibrary.org
OCTOBER 16
JOSSELYN’S COCKTAILS FOR A CAUSE
WHERE: Sunset Ridge Country Club
Since 1951, Josselyn has worked within the community to ensure that everyone has equitable access to the highest quality mental health care. Join
Josselyn supporters at its signature fundraising event with all proceeds benefiting Josselyn programming. josselyn.org
OCTOBER 16
SOLTI FOUNDATION GALA
WHERE: The Casino, Chicago
The Solti Foundation is the foremost organization in the U.S. devoted to helping young American conductors further their talents and careers via financial aid in memory of Sir Georg Solti. The Foundation has had amazing success and many of its prize winners are now established musicians with major orchestras throughout the world. Cocktails start the event and are followed by a superb musical program featuring the important musical stars currently performing in Chicago. Dinner follows with the introduction of the 2024 awardees. soltifoundation.us
OCTOBER 18 – 26
RECYCLED ART SALE
WHERE: The Art Center
Highland Park
The Art Center Highland Park hosts its annual Recycled Art Sale with a VIP Opening Night on October 18. The sale is open to the public from October 19 – 26 and features a collection of artwork ranging from posters, jewelry, artifacts, outdoor sculptures, and decorative objects to deeply discounted works by established artists. All proceeds support yearround programming including scholarships, underwriting for gallery exhibits, art supplies, community-building events,
and administrative costs. theartcenterhp.org/recycledartsale
OCTOBER 19
ARTS IN THE DARK PARADE
WHERE: Streets of Chicago Arts in the Dark will decorate the streets of Chicago with creative costumes. It is a magical evening parade celebrating Halloween as the “artists’ holiday” and drawing together world-renowned institutions, Chicago cultural organizations, important youth
programs, and aspiring artists in every field. Arts in the Dark is a mission-driven and curated event that brings performance and creativity to the streets of Chicago. artsinthedark.com
OCTOBER 19
FIELD MUSEUM GALA
WHERE: Field Museum
The Field Museum Women’s Board and Board of Trustees will host the museum’s annual benefit celebration gala—the museum’s single most import-
Alphabet City by Bex Wilkinson, mixed media, 2024. The Art Center Highland Park’s Recycled Art Sale, October 18 – 26
ant fundraising event. The evening includes the presentation of the Marshall Field V Award for Distinguished Leadership and proceeds from this event support the Field Museum’s groundbreaking research, conservation, and education programs in Chicago and around the world. fieldmuseum.org
OCTOBER 19
ROSEHILL CEMETERY CRYPT
12TH ANNUAL 5K RUN
WHERE: Rosehill Cemetery
Check out fall’s most ‘spirited’ event with the 12th annual crypt 5k run/walk. Run or walk through Illinois’ second largest cemetery, spanning 350 acres. This Victorian-era cemetery has been open since 1864 and is the final resting place of Chicago mayors, Oscar Mayer, John G. Shedd, scores of Civil War veterans, and many more. There will be a fully visible candlelit course traversing past monuments and headstones throughout the cemetery. In addition, there will also be a post run/ walk party across the street at Fireside Inn. chicagoevents.com
OCTOBER 21
3ARTS AWARDS
CELEBRATION
WHERE: Harris Theater
The 3Arts Awards holds its annual celebration celebrating artists in the performing, teaching, and visual arts through half a million dollars in grants. This year, ten honorees will receive $30,000 grants, six Next Level Awards will receive $50,000, and ten Make a Wave recipients will receive $2,000. There will be performances from past year awardees, including Rika Lin, Donnetta “LilBit” Jackson, and Nashon Holloway. 3arts.org
OCTOBER 23
TEDXWILMETTE SALON
WHERE: Wilmette Public Library
Join TEDxWilmette speakers Lizzie Docel and Rachel Douglas Swanson in discussion about
AGENDA
the topic of AI and education. Thought AI could only do damage to students by enabling them to cheat? This interactive salon explores the power of AI to unlock understanding, create connection, and empower educators. tedxwilmette.com
OCTOBER 24
AN EVENING OF HOPE
WHERE: Theater on the Lake
Partake in an evening of hope in the fight against breast cancer with the Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation. This year the organization is excited to convene with the Chicago Breast Cancer Research Consortium. The Consortium is helping to make clinical trials more accessible to Chicago-area breast cancer patients. The Fall Benefit’s honoree is the Chicago Department of Public Health Commissioner, Dr. Olusimbo Ige. Proceeds from this event support early career doctors and innovative breast cancer research. lynnsage.org
OCTOBER 25
HOOSIER BOSS
WHERE: RPM Events, Chicago
The 8th annual Hoosier Ball will be an evening like none other as the heyday of the Mafia comes alive. The event will be full of ornate elegance, high fashion, jewels, and best-inclass food and wine. The After Party is presented by Ferrari Lake Forest. Get “made” by giving to the cause, all proceeds support the Lyon Family Foundation. lyonfamilyfoundation.org
OCTOBER 26
PURPLE TIE BALL
WHERE: Lincolnshire Marriott Resort
Raise a glass to commemorate Domestic Violence Awareness Month and celebrate the survivors who are hopeful, free, and thriving. This year’s 24th annual Purple Tie Ball transports guests to a Winter Wonderland. There will be a cocktail reception, dinner,
program, dancing, live auction, raffle prizes, and winter wonderland inspired surprises. wingsprogram.com
NOVEMBER 7
ANTIQUES + MODERNISM
PREVIEW PARTY
WHERE: Community House, Winnetka
You won’t want to miss the opening night preview party of the Midwest’s most well-respected combined antiques and modernism show. The spectacular evening allows guests a first look at the exquisite home furnishings and accessories, artwork, clothing, jewelry, and more before the three-day show opens to the public from November 8 through 10. All proceeds benefit the Community House in Winnetka. thewinnetkashow.com
NOVEMBER 9
AN ILLUMINATING EVENING
WHERE: The Field Museum
The American India Foundation hosts “An Illuminating Evening” of celebration and philanthropy, featuring cocktails, dinner, live auction, a moving program, and dancing. All proceeds benefit the American India Foundation. aif.org.
NOVEMBER 9
INTO THE WOODS GALA
WHERE: The Hilton, Chicago
The North Shore Board of the Northwestern Settlement hosts an evening of celebration and philanthropy, featuring cocktails, dinner, live auction, and dancing. All proceeds benefit House In The Wood Camp. northshoreboard.org
NOV 15 – JAN 5
LIGHTSCAPE
WHERE: Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe
The enchanting after-dark illuminated trail created just for the Chicago Botanic Garden dazzles with brand-new installations from around the world and transformed vistas with
light, art, and music. Attendees will discover incredible new works, like the Neon Singing Trees, and revisit favorites like the Winter Cathedral. chicagobotanic.org/lightscape
NOVEMBER 15
FUR BALL
WHERE: Drake Hotel, Chicago Bask in an evening of black ties and puppy dog eyes. The Fur Ball is a black-tie gala hosted by PAWS Development Board. Guests and their pooches wear their finest and celebrate life with Chicago’s like-minded homeless pet philanthropists while surrounded by the Drake Hotel’s festive holiday decorations. The evening features a red carpet, an elegant dinner, a dog buffet and pet spa, silent and live auctions, dancing, photobooth, raffle, and more. pawschicago.org
NOVEMBER 16
CHICAGO CHILDREN’S MUSEUM GALA
WHERE: The Geraghty
Join the Chicago Children’s Museum for a night of dinner, dancing, and an exploration of future possibilities for the museum, the children and families served, and the work done in Chicago’s communities. The museum’s annual gala raises vital funds that allow the museum to create extraordinary playful learning experiences for years to come—both in the museum and within the community. Co-chaired by Ellenna Berger and Andrew G. Miller. chicagochildrensmuseum.org
NOVEMBER 21
HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE OPENING NIGHT
WHERE: The Forester Hotel
The Women’s Board of Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital hosts its annual Holiday Boutique with an opening night on November 21 followed by two full days of shopping on November 22 and 23. Proceeds benefit nursing education. nm.org/wbboutique
NEWSWORTHY
FALL
COLORS
Experience the wonder of SkyBridge Michigan, the world’s longest timber-towered suspension bridge, where guests will witness nature’s autumn masterpiece painted in vivid, captivating hues. Suspended 118 feet in the air, adventurous leaf peepers will enjoy sweeping panoramic views of Boyne Valley and the Northern Michigan hills. SkyBridge Michigan also features a special glass-covered section, providing a 360-degree immersion into the heart of fall colors—giving guests a unique vantage point to ensure they won’t miss a single detail of the foliage. For more information, visit boynemountain.com/skybridge-michigan.
NATURAL BEAUTY
The female-founded beauty company Chantecaille brings its botanical roots to life with the Gilded Garden collection. Elegant gold compacts and lipsticks decorated with artful engravings of Icelandic poppies, magnolia branches, and flowering jasmine vines represent the blooms that power the brand’s iconic skincare formulas. Eye Duets pair a luminous shimmer hue with a rich matte shade to create festive eye looks, while Lip Cristal offers a dazzling shimmer formula for a soirée-ready look. With sales of Lip Cristal, Chantecaille continues its tree-planting program with the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, one of Africa’s oldest wildlife charities and a leading conservation organization embracing all measures that complement the conservation, preservation, and protection of African wildlife. To learn more, visit the Chantecaille brand ambassador at Neiman Marcus Northbrook.
DESIGN TOME
Design legend Holly Hunt, founder of HOLLY HUNT and House of Hunt, is set to unveil her first book this fall, HOLLY HUNT: FEARLESS IN THE WORLD OF DESIGN, published by Rizzoli New York. This biography chronicles her inspiring journey, both personal and professional, by highlighting decades of exquisite craftsmanship and design and detailing Hunt’s pioneering work at HOLLY HUNT, where she transformed the industry with her luxury custom furnishings, focusing on rich materials, precise scale, and proportion. After selling HOLLY HUNT to Knoll Inc., Hunt founded House of Hunt in 2021, continuing her legacy of exceptional quality. The book also features her latest personal project—a modernist home in Aspen—and serves as a time capsule of her previous homes and favorite projects, each reflecting significant life lessons. The tome provides insight into the life of this creative, resourceful, and powerful woman. For more information, visit rizzoliusa.com.
FACE LIFT SEASON IS IN FULL EFFECT
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State-of-the-art Warner Institute Facelift Technique (SWIFT Lift) is the perfect treatment for the ultimate facial refresh.
Developed by Dr. Jeremy Warner, MD FACS, the SWIFT Lift achieves the same results as a traditional facelift without the need for a hospital operating room, general anesthesia, drains or long recovery times. During the procedure, which takes approximately two hours, Dr. Warner uses a special technique to effectively target specific facial areas and tighten the surrounding skin, creating a natural, long-lasting look that yields minimal recovery time.
Transform your look this season—call our office today to schedule your consultation!
DR. JEREMY WARNER, MD FACS
Frank & Eileen
Trunk Show Weekend
Thursday, October 31
Friday, November 1
Saturday, November 2
Sunday, November 3
10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Experience Frank & Eileen styling at all Valentina stores as well as exclusive offers and complimentary gifts (while supplies last).
Lake Forest - Glencoe - Winnetka
Follow @shopvalentina on Instagram for trunk show updates, style inspiration and more.
SHORE CITY
LESLEY CROWE grew up in Lake Forest from the age of 8, after spending her early childhood in Brussels. Following her graduation from Woodlands Academy, she studied studio art and business at Boston College. A semester in Florence, Italy was pivotal for Crowe as she began creating jewelry there— sparking a lifelong passion for the craft. After college, she moved to Chicago and spent 15 years working for Tiffany & Co., where she honed her skills in the luxury jewelry industry. About 20 years ago, Crowe and her mother launched the jewelry company Designs by Pinky. Crowe personally crafts a large portion of the jewelry, and when she outsources production, she turns to skilled Italian artisans. Over the years, the motherdaughter duo has participated in many shows. Designs by Pinky will be showcased at The Women’s Board of Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital’s annual Holiday Boutique at The Forester Hotel, opening on November 21, followed by two full days of shopping on November 22 and 23. All proceeds from this beloved event benefit nursing education at Lake Forest Hospital. Crowe takes a break from designing to share her city and shore favorites with Sheridan Road.
EDITED BY MORGAN HOGERTY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA
WITTKAMP
STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA
HAIR & MAKEUP BY MARGARETA
KOMLENAC
What’s on the horizon? I usually have a busy fall schedule of shows in and around Chicago and Milwaukee, followed by spending a large part of the winter in Florida where I will participate in six shows ending around Easter. I often spend time in Palm Beach, Miami, and Las Vegas scouting new fashion trends Mantra? Always enjoy the little things in life Best grooming tip? A little lipstick goes a long way Guilty pleasure? Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream Favorite foods? Steak frites Music you love? Country Best advice given to you? Listen
to others Earliest memory? Watching my mother get dressed for a party and helping her decide what clothes and jewelry to wear When you wake up, you? Kiss my husband Before bed, you? Watch Seinfeld What’s on your bookshelf? Chanel and Dior books You can’t live without? Diet Coke and my family Love to escape to? St. Barts Advice you would give to your younger self? Never give up
ON THE SHORE IN THE CITY
Your style is? Classic Can’t leave the house without? Cell phone and lipstick Transportation? Land Rover Driving music? I don’t listen to music when I drive, it gives me time to think Place to eat? Sophia Steak Shop? Lake Forest Shop and Bunny & Babe Best thing about the Shore? The people Worst thing about the Shore? Winter The perfect day is? Quiet time near a body of water (ocean, lake, or pool)
Your style is? Leather leggings and a silk top Can’t leave the house without? Cell phone and lipstick Transportation? Uber or Land Rover Shop? Chanel, Dior, or Louis Vuitton Best thing about the City? Restaurants Worst thing about the City? Traffic The perfect day is? A sunny day to walk around and shop my favorite stores and look for new trends
Lesley Crowe wearing SPRWMN pants, The Lake Forest Shop
Palm Beach, Florida
St. Barts
Sophia Steak, Wilmette
LEGAL SEPARATION VS. DIVORCE IN ILLINOIS: KEY DIFFERENCES AND CONSIDERATIONS
WORDS BY MICHONE J. RIEWER / PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP / STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA
Although both Divorce and Legal Separation are governed by the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act, they are not the same. In Illinois, couples facing marital difficulties have the option of pursuing either a legal separation or a divorce. While both processes involve a formal legal proceeding, they serve different purposes and have distinct legal implications. Understanding these differences can help couples make informed decisions about the best course of action for their specific circumstances.
Michone J. Riewer
Legal Separation allows couples to live apart and obtain enforceable court orders that control their interactions regarding child custody, child support, spousal maintenance, and the division of property without formally ending the marriage. The court can issue orders similar to those in a divorce proceeding, but the marriage itself remains legally intact.
Benefits of Legal Separation:
1. Religious Beliefs: For couples whose religious beliefs prohibit divorce, legal separation provides an alternative that allows them to live apart without violating their faith.
2. Health Insurance: Legal separation allows spouses to remain on each other’s health insurance plans, which can be a significant financial consideration.
3. Reconciliation: Couples who are uncertain about ending their marriage may choose legal separation to allow them to step back and reconsider their marriage without ending it.
Divorce: An Overview
Divorce, also known as dissolution of marriage, allows couples to legally end their marriage and enter final orders that resolve child custody, child support, spousal maintenance and the division of property. Divorce allows both parties to remarry.
In both legal situations, the court makes determinations based on the best interests of the children, the statutory factors as they relate to support and principles of equitable property distribution.
Benefits of Divorce:
1. Finality: Divorce provides a final legal resolution, allowing both parties to move on and possibly remarry.
responsibilities, allowing each party to manage their assets and debts independently.
3. Closure: For many, divorce offers emotional closure and the ability to start anew without legal ties to their former spouse.
Key Differences Between Legal Separation and Divorce
1. Marital Status: The most significant difference is that legal separation does not end the marriage, whereas divorce does. Legally separated spouses remain married and cannot remarry, while divorced individuals are free to remarry.
2. Property and Debt Division: In both legal separation and divorce, the court can divide marital property and debts. However, in a legal separation, the division is not necessarily final. If the couple later decides to divorce, the court may revisit the property division.
3. Health Insurance and Benefits: Legally separated spouses can often retain health insurance and other benefits through their spouse’s employment, whereas divorced spouses typically lose these benefits.
4. Decision-Making and Suppor t Orders: Both processes can include orders for child custody, support, and spousal maintenance. However, in a legal separation, these orders are temporary and can be modified if the couple decides to reconcile or proceed with a divorce.
Which Is Better?
The choice between legal separation and divorce depends on individual circumstances and goals. Legal separation may be better for couples who wish to live apart without ending their marriage due to religious beliefs, financial considerations, or health insurance. On the other hand, divorce may be the better option for those seeking finality, financial independence, a final settlement or the ability to remarry.
Couples facing marital difficulties should consider consulting with a family law attorney to explore their options and understand the legal and financial implications of both legal separation and divorce. Strategic Divorce can provide personalized advice based on the specifics of each case. We help individuals make informed decisions that align with their needs and goals.
For more information, visit strategicdivorce.com/attorney- profile/ michone-j-riewer-esq.
Locally Owned & Operated Since 1973
CAHILL OWNERS
BRANDON DELFINO & CHRIS MCNELLY
THE DRIVE
PORSCHE APPEAL
At Porsche Exchange in Highland Park, the largest Porsche dealer in the Midwest, customers are more than clients. They’re family.
WORDS BY MITCH HURST / PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY PORSCHE EXCHANGE
There are some purchases that just mean more. For many Porsche owners, it may be the fulfillment of a teenage dream, or perhaps the status of spinning a 911 around the neighborhood. Or maybe, with its expanded lineup of models, including the all-new electric Macan—drivers want a really nice luxury car in which to go to work or run their errands.
Porsche Exchange in Highland Park has been selling and servicing Porsches for decades on the North Shore. There’s a reason it’s the biggest Porsche Center in the Midwest and Premier Porsche Center in the greater Chicago area year after year.
“You don’t get that title without providing a top-tier customer experience and building loyal relationships,” says Alyssa Suriano,
Customer Experience Manager for Porsche Exchange. “We have been family-owned and operated for over 45 years, and a lot of our people have also been here a very long time, and so many of our clients are like family.”
Since she took on the role of Customer Experience Manager a few years ago, Suriano has highlighted the importance of tying in the idea of the luxury Porsche brand with a curated and elevated experience for the customer.
“With that comes the feeling of being valued, being appreciated, and understanding their needs and interests in today’s market,” she says. “No one needs a Porsche; it’s a want, an aspiration. We take the time to connect with the client on a personal level in
order to understand what it is that they’re looking for, their lifestyle, and determining which of our 2- or 4-door sports car models is the best fit for them.”
Adding to the mix of models this year is the Macan, Porsche’s first ever electric SUV. Suriano says that in the North Shore market, the car is going to be a good fit for many of Porsche Exchange’s clients.
“Given the Macan Electric’s thrilling performance, sharp design, long range coupled with fast charging speeds, and the elevated luxury Porsche has brought to this platform, it’s going to be a big seller for us,” she says.
It’s another reason the staff at Porsche Exchange stay laser focused on the customer experience.
“It starts right when you walk in the door, being greeted by our guest reception staff. You’re not going to go unnoticed. You’re greeted and you’re welcomed,” says Suriano. “You’re offered craft coffee from our coffee bar. We’re partnered with Metropolis in the city, so we have our own custom Exchange coffee and espresso blends.”
There’s also lunch and snacks available for those waiting for their car to be serviced.
“When you come in, you’ll see the facility is top tier, a very clean space. It feels like a museum that’s very warm and inviting,” says Suriano. “We can get an understanding of who you are and what you’re looking for and what you need. Your Porsche brand ambassador is with you throughout the process.”
There was a time during the emergence of online technologies that car dealers pushed potential customers to websites (and still do) to shop for a car, make a purchase, and have a spanking new car magically delivered to their driveway.
While Porsche Exchange offers this technology, the dealership prides itself on the personal touch.
“Ironically, as a millennial, I have been so against the whole push to online, I’m going against the grain. My colleagues laugh at me all the time because I’m still the pen and paper person,” Suriano says. “Porsche is not an on-demand brand where you can just add a car to your shopping cart and then it shows up. To have the full sensory experience is 100 times more effective than just going online and thinking, ‘That’s shiny. I want it’.”
For more information, visit porscheexchange. com.
THE DRIVE
ZIMMERMANN Resort 2025 Look 37, zimmermann.com
FASHION POWER WOMAN
EDITED BY ALLISON DUNCAN
BEA UTY
CULTURE & ARTS
THE NORTH SHORE’S MOST CREATIVE PURSUITS
TRUE BLUE
Enjoy the monumental talent of muralist Anna Murphy
Art & Artist feature Anna Murphy’s mural I Dream In Blue, Highwood, Illinois, 2024. Photography by Maria Ponce
ART & ARTIST
DIVINE BEAUTY
Artist Anna Murphy
ART & ARTIST
Artist Anna Murphy’s murals inspire viewers to find the beauty within.
WORDS BY ANN MARIE SCHEIDLER / PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA PONCE STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA / HAIR & MAKEUP BY MARGARETA KOMLENAC
When Anna Murphy sees a large exterior wall without windows, she imagines it as a canvas. In the last 10 years, she has emerged as one of Chicago’s preeminent muralists—something she evolved into after years of perfecting her craft as a traditional oil painter.
“Although much of my early training was in oil painting, I was always drawn to large canvases,” says Murphy. “When I painted my first mural, I fell in love with the monumental scale of it. I loved the huge blank canvas it provided, and how it would draw a large public audience. But what I loved most was that it created a relationship with the community. I get to leave a gift of my artwork within each community I work with, but in turn, I get a gift back in those relationships and lifelong friendships that change me as a person and influence my art. It’s a wonderful, and meaningful experience.”
Murphy moved to the United States from England with her family in 2002. “Although I spent many hours as a child painting with my grandmother, a wonderful watercolor artist, I really fell in love with drawing and painting at the very end of high school,” she says. “I received a full ride to college through the art program at the University of Louisville and decided to follow that path. After college, Chicago seemed to be a great place to grow as an artist and still be near my family.”
Within a week of moving, Murphy became a creative assistant for a successful Chicago artist. “I spent two years creating work and traveling nationally and internationally,” Murphy says. “I learned a lot about how to run a studio, how to make work, and how to design and install a gallery show. After those two years, it was time to make my own path.”
When Murphy decided to pursue becoming a muralist, she had to develop a new painting technique. “I couldn’t spend months and months painting the way I would with my canvases,” she explains. “Murals are large-scale paintings that need to be completed within a short period of time. My fiancé taught me a process he developed when he first began painting murals. The process is very similar to using watercolors—painting lots of thin layers on top of one another.”
On average, each mural takes Murphy about a month to complete—with weather always a factor. “Some take more time, some take less. One mural in Indianapolis, Legendary, was 60 feet by 80 feet with 43 portraits of Indianapolis legends. That one took nine weeks. I design my murals in Photoshop and project the outline onto the wall. Then I can begin painting.”
Murphy’s confidence as an artist grew with experience. “My first love in life was music,” she says. “I played piano and violin. I think that’s where I developed my patience and perseverance. It takes hours and hours to learn a song. I think I’ve always had
Beautiful and Brave mural, Bourbon
On Main, Frankfort, Kentucky 2019.
Photography by Anna Murphy
Site Design Group Office Mural, Site Design Group, Landscape Architecture and Urban Design Firm, Chicago, 2023. Photography by Scott Shigley
ART & ARTIST
“When I get to create, I get to connect with that divine part of myself. It’s a spiritual experience.”
that notion to just keep going, one day at a time. You don’t have to look at the finished product. You only have to look at what’s in front of you. That’s how I approach my projects.”
Murphy’s current body of murals is easy to identify as she works in a color palette of blue, white, and gold—colors inspired by one of her grandmother’s English tea sets. “I think there is a level of nostalgia there, from my childhood. I’ve worked with many communities, and each had its own version of this blue and white china. In Portugal, I saw gorgeous churches with blue and white tiles all around the walls and beautiful molded gold ceilings and fixtures. I just fell in love with that color palette, and I knew I wanted to incorporate that combination into my work.”
These colors have played well with Murphy’s use of dramatic lighting. “I feel like I’m trying to represent what heaven is like,” she says. “That bright magical light and how it hits the metallic gold. It makes the blue feel beyond human, imaginative. It offers a fantastical depiction of things while offering a feeling of serenity and connection. This colorway is one body of work, one chapter in my story.”
Many of Murphy’s murals—including I Dream in Blue, an art piece she completed in Highwood last summer—use faces as primary imagery. “I enjoy depicting faces,” Murphy explains. “There is something extraordinary about painting eyes. It’s like being able to reflect someone’s essence, someone’s soul. It’s a wonderful feeling to bring a portrait to life. That was my first obsession. Then over the years, I’ve brought in flora and fauna. But people have such a strong emotional reaction when they see a piece of artwork full of human emotion.”
For the last year, Murphy has begun turning her focus to developing monumental sculptures. “It’s foreign to work in this form,” she says. “But I’ve enjoyed pushing myself out of the box. As an artist, you always want to keep growing and challenging yourself to think bigger and outside of what is comfortable.”
Murphy is quick to credit her fiancé, Hector, an artist and fabricator, as being one of her best collaborators. “He’s a huge part of my growth and constant desire to move forward in my success as an artist and a person,” Murphy adds. “We’re always there to bounce ideas off one another.”
While life as a working artist isn’t without its challenges, Murphy embraces all that has come with choosing art as a profession.
“Every day is different. Every project is something new,” she says. “When I get to create, I get to connect with that divine part of myself. It’s a spiritual experience. And through the work that I make, I want to move people to connect with that divine part of themselves. I believe an artist’s work reflects their inner world. My job as an artist is to feel as beautiful as I can inside so that I can share that beauty and inspire others to feel beauty inside themselves.”
For more information, visit annapmurphy.com or follow @annapmurphy.
Murphy with her Legendary mural, Bicentennial Unity Plaza, Indiana, 2023. Photography by Arts Council Indy, Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Pacers Sports & Entertainment
Legendary, Bicentennial Unity Plaza, Indiana. Photography by Logan Wood
I Dream In Blue mural, Highwood, Illinois, 2024. Photography by Hector Gonzalez
ON HER NIGHTSTAND
“Dr Seuss’ Green Eggs and Ham, All the Places You Will Go, and One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish. These are on my nightstand because my adorable granddaughter is a huge fan of Dr. Suess. There’s nothing better than cuddling up with her to read a book. The book I’m reading now is The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray. It’s hard to put down and is one of the many books that were recommended by friends who are avid readers. Thanks to that network I haven’t picked a dud in years.”
TRENDING
PRIZED POSSESSIONS
MILENA PALANDECH has long been an ardent proponent of using vintage pieces in modern design. She transformed this passion into a business, founding Studio Sonja Milan, a Chicago showroom named in honor of her grandparents. Milena thrives when curating a collection of mid-century modern furniture and offers clients unique pieces with character and charm. Collectors and designers alike can admire her work at this year’s Antiques + Modernism Show (A+M). Celebrating its 52nd year, the A+M show begins with a Preview Party on Thursday, November 7, followed by a three-day show hosted at the Community House in Winnetka. Presented by the Woman’s Board of Winnetka’s Community House, this spectacular style and design event is the ultimate destination for interior designers, treasure hunters, and collectors alike. Milena’s selections will be featured alongside other nationwide dealers specializing in unique home furnishings, accessories, artwork, clothing, jewelry, and more.
EDITED BY JULIA PAULMAN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES GUSTIN
STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA
HAIR & MAKEUP BY LEANNA ERNEST
ON HER MOBILE
“Most of my time online is dedicated to my business. I’m always on the hunt for the most interesting mid-century pieces. I follow auction houses and even local estate sale websites for that next great acquisition—in part because it’s a necessity for the business but also because I’m obsessed with mid-century modern design.”
IN HER EARBUDS
“If I’m in the car, I typically have NPR on the radio. If I’m at the studio, a Spotify playlist is probably playing in the background. My taste in music is varied—I might be listening to Chopin’s Piano Concertos or Earth, Wind & Fire. The playlists may combine music from different eras, but it will always include selections that make you want to get up and move.”
Milena Palandech wearing alice + olivia, Neiman Marcus Northbrook
“As
– Katie
TRAVEL & CUISINE
Anantara Hoi An Resort in Vietnam
VENTURE THROUGH VIETNAM
With
its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, delectable cuisine, and vibrant culture, Vietnam attracts tourists from across the world. Join
me on an adventure that takes us from ancient towns and the quiet countryside to a seaside escape and a vibrant capital city.
WORDS BY DUSTIN O’REGAN
HOI AN:
My daughter and I started our Vietnamese sojourn in Hoi An, a city on the banks of the poetic Thu Bon River on Vietnam’s south-central coast. Once a major port city, Hoi An has a long history beginning more than 2,000 years ago. The town grew from a small trading post to an international trading center but in the 18th century ceded dominance to the neighboring Da Nang. The city’s diverse historical influences are reflected in its architecture—a mix of eras and styles from wooden Chinese temples and colorful French colonial buildings to slender Vietnamese tube houses and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge (Chùa Cầu).
We stayed at the Anantara Hoi An Resort located just at the edge of the historic district allowing us convenient access to the vibrant downtown. Set amidst lush gardens, the riverfront resort is home to several restaurants including two of my favorites: Hoi An Riverside, a charming French colonial-style dining room serving the very best of Vietnamese cuisine as well as seafood and steaks;
and Art Space, a trendy streetside venue offering an innovative menu of modern East and West cuisine enjoyed alongside seasonal pop-up art installations.
We spent our days immersed in local culture weaving in and out of quaint cafes and eclectic shops, which offered everything from Vietnamese coffee to lanterns and, of all things, colorful cowboy boots. One evening, guided by Huynh Huu Phuoc from Eat Hoi An/Street Food Tours (eathoian.com), we enjoyed an immersive experience that allowed us to really “see” and “taste” the essence of Hoi An. We explored the back streets of Hoi An, popping into dozens of back-alley eateries and local hot spots to sample blood porridge, various noodle dishes, chicken feet, snails, and even avocado ice cream. It was so interesting to meet each proprietor and learn about their journeys. One woman had set up a tent-like structure on a sidewalk next to a tree she believed would bring luck—it appears that it did as she is still operating 30 years later.
The Vietage by Anantara aerial view
Fruit seller in Hoi An
Hoi An’s Ancient Town
FIRST CLASS
The narrow cobblestone streets of Hoi An’s renowned “Ancient Town,” a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are lined with centuries-old buildings with moody yellow facades covered by vibrant bougainvillea. Flowing gently through the heart of Hoi An, the Thu Bon River reflects the town’s picturesque charm. Traditional wooden boats adorned with colorful lanterns ferry visitors along the river, serving as a reminder of the town’s rich maritime heritage, while the riverbanks bustle with activity from storefronts and lively markets. At night, Ancient Town transforms into a brightly lit wonderland illuminated by thousands of colorful silk lanterns and small candle-lit wish boxes dance on the water’s surface. The sounds of traditional Vietnamese music and live bands drifted from riverside cafes, mingling with the laughter and chatter of locals and visitors alike.
The Vietage by Anantara
For our trip to the modern coastal resort in Quy Nhon, we opted for a unique travel experience offered by Anantara—The Vietage. This luxurious 12-seat first-class train car carries passengers between Hoi An and the coast. Departing from Da Nang, just a short car ride from the resort, we embarked on a leisurely six-
hour rail journey through the Vietnamese countryside. Along the way, we feasted on an exquisite three-course meal while sipping free-flowing cocktails and received a mini massage. This elegant mode of travel afforded us glimpses of emerald green rice paddies, quaint villages, farmers donning nón lá (traditional conical hats) while working their fields, distant mountains, lush jungles, and historic cemeteries full of brightly colored and elaborately festooned tombs. As we approached Quy Nhon, we caught sight of the Banh It Towers—architectural marvels dating back to the end of the 11th century, perched high on a hill. The Vietage revives the romance of rail travel and offers a luxurious way to explore Vietnam’s countryside.
Quy Nhon
Along the sandy shores of downtown Quy Nhon, bars and restaurants buzz with volleyball games, sunbathers, swimmers, and cyclists. For our short 30-minute drive from Quy Nhon to the
Hoi An’s Thu Bon River with lantern boats. Photography by I am Kien
Anantara Hoi An Resort
The Vietage by Anantara private booth
Anantara Quy Nhon Villas, we followed a winding coastal road. The coastline views were magnificent—dramatic cliffs overlooked stunning beaches, and the cerulean sea was peppered with rugged rock islands wearing crowns of green. Traditional brightly painted wood boats, unchanged in design over the centuries, bobbed gently in the sea, their nets glistening with the morning’s catch.
Arriving at the Anantara Quy Nhon Villas, we discovered a serene retreat of 25 luxury pool villas spread across 7 acres of lush landscape fronting Quy Nhon Bay. Our seaside villa sported a private infinity pool, an outdoor garden with a marble shower, an immense indoor bathroom, and beautifully appointed living quarters with views of the turquoise sea, islands, and powdery white beach.
Vietnam is a food destination, so our stay revolved heavily around exploring local cuisine. Memorable events included the Chef’s Table Experience, a personalized culinary delight with a four-course extravaganza and excellent wine pairings, and a Spice Spoons adventure that took us from Quy Nhon’s local market to the kitchen of the resort’s centrally located Sea.Fire.Salt restaurant.
Led by Executive Chef Vĩnh Trần, the Spice Spoons adventure began at Quy Nhon’s energetic Dam Market. Located in the heart of the city, the Dam Market is a vibrant montage of colors, sounds, and scents. Stalls brim with fresh produce, fragrant herbs, live animals, and exotic spices while the friendly smiles of vendors add warmth to the chaotic atmosphere. With Chef Trần’s guidance, we learned how to select the freshest fish and the most aromatic herbs. Returning to the resort with overflowing shopping bags, we channeled our inner Master Chef as we chopped, fried, grilled, flipped, and buttered. The hard work culminated in a feast with a sea grape/tomato/red onion salad; razor clams with red peppers, garlic, shallot, and oyster sauce (my daughter’s new
favorite delicacy); fish stew with pork belly and pickled vegetables; and grilled clams with spiced oil and fried shallot. Satisfied with our culinary prowess, we spent the afternoon lolling on the beach, swimming in the sea, and soaking up the breathtaking view.
Delving into local history, we booked a private tour with Thich Tours (quynhonprivatetours.com) to explore Quy Nhon’s monasteries, the Quang Trung Museum, and ancient Cham towers, including Duong Long Champa—the tallest brick towers in Southeast Asia. The ancient Kingdom of Champa, a significant maritime power, flourished along the central coast from approximately the 2nd to the 19th centuries. Thich, our knowledgeable guide, shared the thousand-year history of the Champa civilization as we climbed (and climbed) the stairs toward the hilltop Banh It Towers. Thich then introduced us to a local restaurant Nem Chợ Huyện Olala for a hands-on lesson in making Vietnamese spring rolls—a fun “taste” of local culture.
One morning we traded historical and culinary adventures for a session of Viet Vo Dao Martial Arts led by Master Phuc. This form of self-defense martial arts is Vietnam’s most popular. Donning our traditional võ phục uniform, we learned the art of
Anantara Quy Nhon Villas guest room
Sea.Fire.Salt restaurant at Anantara Quy Nhon Villas
FIRST CLASS
using our arms, elbows, legs, and knees in counterattack moves. Attackers beware!
After our invigorating morning, we retreated to the spa. A golf cart whisked us into the jungle stopping at a footpath. Following a stone walkway deeper into the jungle, we came upon an open-air pavilion. We entered the peaceful space and followed the attendants to an immense room resembling a glass treehouse. After a foot cleansing ritual with a bath of saltwater infused with rose petals, we both opted for the Four Hands Flow Vietnamese massage—a harmonious combination of two experienced local experts using traditional Vietnamese massage techniques to reach deep into the muscles. When the attendants started a fingertip dance along my temples and the nape of my neck, I sighed wistfully knowing this idyllic encounter was about to end.
Every experience, from culinary adventure to cultural exploration to spa indulgences enriched our stay in Quy Nhon. We bid farewell to our glorious beachside retreat and headed to Vietnam’s capital city.
HANOI:
Before our journey home, we decided to spend two days in Hanoi, celebrated for its centuries-old architecture and a rich culture with Southeast Asian, Chinese, and French influences. For our stay, we chose a French Quarter landmark that exudes an illustrious history—the award-winning French colonial-style Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi. Boasting a classical white façade, green shutters, original wrought iron detail, and a lush courtyard garden, the hotel blends colonial heritage with neo-classical luxury and a dash of modernity. The 123-year-old hotel is legendary, a bastion of sheer opulence and refinement making it an ideal base for history-minded travelers. Since 1901, nearly every major political, social, and economic event shaping Hanoi has been part of the hotel’s history.
folders to review our booking, and then guided to our suite in the recently refurbished colonial Metropole Wing. The room’s Indo-Chinese décor was highlighted by a black lacquer closet that opened to reveal a glorious orange-hued interior reminiscent of Hermes’ signature color. Relaxing on the terrace, we admired the lush courtyard with its pool and Bamboo Bar.
After a deep sleep in sumptuous bedding, we awoke refreshed and reinvigorated. At Le Club, we savored an elaborate buffet of fresh seafood on ice, foie gras, lobster bisque, Serrano ham, omelets, noodle dishes, and pastries—all enjoyed while seated in a glass-enclosed atrium with views of the tropical courtyard. Le Club also offers a lovely afternoon tea service, where we spent hours sampling delicate tea sandwiches, elegant desserts, French press coffee, and an assortment of teas.
In the late afternoon, we explored the city on foot. Hanoi was much greener than I expected—rice paddies line the highways while trees border every street. A short walk from the hotel, we came upon Hoàn Kiếm Lake, also known as “Sword Lake,” which has an ancient temple floating at its center. We walked the lakeside pathway where flowering trees shaded us from the heat and gardens burst from sidewalk planters. We immersed ourselves in the charm of the Old Quarter where narrow main streets bear the names of ancient trades—including Silver Street, Salt Street, Coffin Street, and Cotton Street. Walking back to the hotel, we strolled past elegant boutiques and the opulent Opera House (Nhà hát Lớn Hà Nội). The stunning architectural gem was inspired by Paris’ Palais Garnier and was completed after a decade of construction beginning in 1901.
Upon entry, we were welcomed by three staff members dressed in traditional Vietnamese fashions who whisked our bags away and ushered us to check-in. We were welcomed with a cool drink, presented with heavy leather-bound
With more than 1,000 years of history, Hanoi holds a wealth of cultural treasures, including temples and ancient imperial citadels that I look forward to exploring on our next visit when we will be sure to spend more time. When we return, we will certainly stay at the luxurious and storied Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi—an experience that epitomizes the essence of hospitality and charm in Vietnam’s capital city.
Looking for a Southeast Asia sojourn? Follow this itinerary for a dream-like adventure through Vietnam’s diverse landscape.
For more information, visit anantara.com, sofitel-legend-metropole-hanoi.com.
Entrance to oceanfront Villa in Quy Nhon
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi interior courtyard with pool
Entrance to Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
Adrianna Stasiuk Partner, Investment Advisor
TURKISH EVOLUTION
Bonhomme Hospitality keeps the BAM! in Bambola.
WORDS BY MONICA KASS ROGERS
Entering Bambola restaurant, you’d never know from Shannah Primiano’s cheerfully outgoing greeting that she was once very shy. “When I was little, I used to be too shy to say anything when people said my first name wrong,” she laughs. Years in the restaurant industry changed all that. Now, Primiano, the Group Executive Pastry Chef at Bonhomme Hospitality, and Nicole Stegenga, Director of Operations, are responsible for keeping the experiences at Bambola and many of the group’s other restaurants fresh and vibrant for guests.
Situated at the westernmost edge of Chicago’s Fulton Market district, Bambola still lives up to the “Silk Road fantasy” feel it was built to invoke. Opened in September 2022, the restaurant’s exotic atmosphere continues to wow, from the 18th and 19th-century artifacts throughout the space to dishes inspired by food cultures along the ancient trade route.
Bambola’s initially over-broad menu has judiciously been trimmed to offer creative takes on Turkish, Persian, and Mediterranean cuisine, with new menu additions appearing seasonally. Indian and Asian accents remain but no longer as main courses.
“Bambola has evolved significantly,” says Stegenga, “both the menu and dining rooms have been updated to create a more intimate feel.”
Expanding on this, Executive Chef Marcos Campos Sanchez explains, “At the beginning, we were drawing from food cultures and cities across the Silk Road to showcase connections between all these flavors, techniques, and recipes. But having a smaller menu focused on Turkish/Persian and Italian gastronomy and culture has helped us to focus on the quality necessary for everyday service, and to offer dishes that are more accessible to our customers.”
Yet, Bambola’s “accessible” is far from traditional. Dishes are full of unexpected ingredient pairings: aioli with preserved lemon and arugula, Turkish ezme (a tomato/peppers/onion blend) with pickled soy sprouts, muhammara with Castelvetrano salsa verde, and more.
Bambola interior
Photography by Wade Hall
Bambola interior
Photography by Wade Hall
DINNER DATE
Sharable mezze dishes and antipasti were our intro to all of this. Those familiar with halloumi cheese love it for its distinctive flavor and nice melt. Here delivered as a Jenga-like stack of cheese sticks, the crispy exterior of the fries, piquancy of the pomegranate glaze, and nuttiness of the accompanying tahini-spiked labneh cream were good counterpoints to the melting centers of the cheese.
Manti, a dumpling served throughout the Middle East—usually soft with a variety of meat fillings—is showcased here crisp and filled with chevre over a pool of smoked shakshuka with a sprinkling of fresh mint and za’atar.
And the unusual baba ganoush—made here with properly wood-oven smoked eggplant in a yogurt and braised mushroom blend sans tahini, was accompanied by a basket of garlic naan triangles. We liked that the kitchen kept some of the eggplant intact for textural contrast, rather than fully blending it in the dip.
If you go for the baba, try it with Bambola’s Turkish spin on the classic Penicillin cocktail. Typically made with very smoky/ peaty Scotch, ginger, honey, and lemon, Bambola’s version uses a smoother Scotch and features vegetal flavors and aromas from tincture of bay leaf, Amontillado, and a dehydrated lemon wheel infused with smoked sesame oil. Although it sounds complex, the result is light, refreshing, and a great example of the food-focused cocktail pairings that Bambola’s team is bringing forward.
One of the high points of our meal was the grilled octopus— the meaty morsels were tender and spicy in a saucy eggplant caponata seasoned with garlic chili crisp and translucent, jewel-green fried kale chips.
While it would be easy to make a meal of the starters, Bambola has a nice assortment of mains. These are divided into two sections: pasta and those from the wood-fired oven Bambola shares with Bonhomme’s French concept Coquette.
We had to try Bambola’s braised lamb shank. The massive, beautifully lacquered joint was tender to the bone, fragrant with cinnamon, and served over sticky-satisfying orbs of curried Israeli couscous, with pistachios, mint, and fresh pomegranate arils adding a tart pop of crunch. To go alongside, we loved the cauliflower. Smoked and sauced with muhammara and a Castelvetrano salsa verde, it was al dente delicious.
Accompanying the lamb, we chose the Xavier Vignon & Barbare Estate Cuvée XL 2012—a grenache/syrah/mourvèdre from Turkey. Other Middle Eastern reds also tempted, such as the Lebanese IXSIR Altitudes 2019, a cabernet sauvignon blend, and the Makarounas Vineyards En Arhi 2022, a cabernet franc from Cyprus—both available by the glass.
For our celebratory finish, we selected two of Chef Primiano’s light and lovely desserts. Her frozen labneh with apricot and guava came topped with a whimsical puffball of toasted meringue. And her pretty, preserved lemon-accented tiramisu with fresh flowers, strawberries, and pistachios turned the Italian classic on its head. “The frozen labneh reminds me of a summertime creamsicle! And I knew I wanted to do a tiramisu that was untraditional without the use of coffee and instead make it lighter,” Primiano shares.
For seasonal dishes, Sanchez is working on some fermentation projects with Silk Road spices, “similar to kimchi but less aggressive and more delicate to preserve the flavor of the vegetables,” and is “super excited about a smoked red wine braised veal osso buco with lemon-butter glazed root vegetables.”
For her part, Primiano says, “I love the balance of warm and cold notes I can utilize in the fall and winter as well as the more savory flavors I can slide into a dessert to make it more balanced.” Next up? A bread pudding with miso, toasted milk, and fig, and a five-spice cheesecake with pears and honeycomb.
And so, just as Primiano’s personality has changed over time, the evolution of Bambola continues, bringing new depth and enchanting results. “As we move forward, we want to continue to give our guests a sense of escapism during their time with us,” sums Stegenga. “Taking them on a journey through our food and beverage, design, music, and more.”
For more information, visit bambolachicago.com.
Lamb shank
Photography by Wade Hall
Group Executive Pastry Chef at Bonhomme Hospitality Shannah Primiano and Director of Operations Nicole Stegenga. Photography by Monica Kass Rogers
Cherry Blossom Gimlet
Photography by Wade Hall
HOUSE & HOME
AN INSIDE LOOK AT CHICAGO’S MOST EXCLUSIVE ADDRESS—THE NORTH SHORE
ANIMAL INSTINCT
Tour two stunning Lake Forest estates and peruse sweet home decor
Jonathan Adler Zebra Peruvian Rug, Jonathan Adler Chicago, 312-274-9920
HOME TOUR
A ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME OPPORTUNITY
Exquisite grounds and striking architecture are hallmarks of one of East Lake Forest’s and the Midwest’s most desirable properties.
EDITED BY MORGAN HOGERTY / PHOTOGRAPHY BY TOM ROSSITER
930 East Rosemary Road in Lake Forest
HOME TOUR
The sale of 930 East Rosemary Road creates the rare opportunity to own a storied nine-acre Lake Forest estate and one of the Midwest’s most distinguished properties. Designed by renowned architect Benjamin H. Marshall in 1904, this magnificent brick Georgian home embodies the elegance and grandeur of a bygone era. Marshall, a celebrated Chicago architect of the Roaring ‘20s, is best known for designing the iconic Drake Hotel. The house was originally built for Mr. and Mrs. John T. Pirie; Mr. Pirie was the heir to the Carson, Pirie Scott & Co. fortune.
The home’s light-filled, generously sized rooms are richly detailed with unique features. Whether it be the dining room’s delicate plasterwork, the breakfast room’s bowed windows, or the library’s ceiling-height bookcases, these features speak to exquisite craftsmanship.
After acquiring the estate in 1988 from Laurance H. Armour Jr., the homeowners embarked on a decade-long renovation and expansion. In the mid-1990s, they purchased two neighboring properties on Mayflower Road that became the site of gardens, a pool house, pool, and guest houses. Completed in 1998, the cupola-crowned pool house was designed by Hammond Beeby & Babka Architects in the late 17th-century Swedish style with Scandinavian-inspired trompe l’oeil murals by Cindy and Jorge Simes of Simes Studios. The first floor boasts a spectacular room for entertaining, a loggia, a kitchen, a powder room, and a changing room. The second floor includes a living room, a bedroom, and full bath. A catering kitchen in the basement is ideal for entertaining, making this exquisite building a “pleasure palace” for friends and family.
The breathtaking landscape originally designed in the 1920s by Rose Standish Nichols, one of the country’s earliest professional garden designers, has been expanded and enhanced through the efforts of nationally recognized architectural and
landscape professionals to recreate a classic Lake Forest country estate. This expansion was a milestone event, significantly elevating the architectural quality of this section of Mayflower Road and marking the most important development in the history of local country estates in 60 years.
Top national talents, like landscape designer Deborah Nevins, joined with local landscape architects Frank Mariani, Craig Bergmann, and P. Clifford Miller to create grounds where 21 captivating garden rooms are complemented by a lush, wooded ravine garden while exquisite millefleur seasonal garden beds exist alongside perennial mixed plantings. Perfectly manicured hedges, majestic trees, and espalier trees show that even in Chicago’s diverse climate it is possible to have a wonderful English garden.
The owners’ passion and creative talent for gardening, as well as their love of nature, were the driving force behind this extraordinary landscape. Now, this meticulously maintained Country House-era estate, nestled in the heart of East Lake Forest near Lake Michigan, awaits its next chapter and lucky homeowner.
930 East Rosemary Road, Lake Forest is listed for $14,975,000. For more information, contact Ann LaSalle Lyon, @properties Christie’s International Real Estate, at 847-828-9991.
Greenhouse
Bifurcated staircase leading to grand foyer
Family room
Pool House dining room
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DOOR INSTALLATION
We offer a large selection of colors, styles, and high-quality materials for exterior doors for your home. Our team of knowledgeable experts will help you select the best door for your home.
“We just installed all new windows at our house and we love them! Before we made our decision we went to the manufacturer’s plant to see how the windows are made. We were concerned at first because Russ’s price was more than half of his competitors quoted price. After our tour we were very comfortable with our decision. Installation day was quick and painless. Our house was left in great condition. I highly recommend this company!”
WHAT ONCE WAS OLD IS NEW AGAIN
Lake Forest’s Lynne Beyer and R. Nicholas (Ryc) Loope, FAIA, use their design and architectural talents to restore historic Westmoreland Farm to its original state of elegance.
WORDS BY ANN MARIE SCHEIDLER
Aerial view of Westmoreland Farm
Lynne Beyer with Simes Studios’ mural highlighting the original Westmoreland Farm
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP
ESTATE BY DESIGN
When the husband and wife design team of R. Nicholas Loope (Ryc) and Lynne Beyer, decided to move from Arizona to grow their design and architectural business in 2021, the couple knew they wanted to move East.
“We had originally considered New York because of client work I was already doing there,” explains Beyer, who spent most of her youth in Milwaukee. “But the pandemic left us feeling that Chicago might be a better place, so we set our search on a home in Lake Forest.”
After visiting two Lake Forest properties, Beyer’s realtor, Susan Amory Weninger from @Properties, unexpectedly pulled one more out of her hat. “She asked me to meet her at the home at 4 p.m.,” Beyer remembers. “Tears were streaming down my face as I made my way down the long and winding driveway. I knew the minute I saw Westmoreland Farm that this was where we were meant to be.”
Built in 1902 for A.B. Dick (the inventor of the mimeograph machine) and his family, Westmoreland Farm at one time spanned more than 400 acres. Designed by renowned architect James Gamble Rogers, the property is named after Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania where Dick and his wife, Mary, met and wed in 1892. While the original manor house no longer exists, Beyer and Loope purchased the coachman’s cottage, the carriage barn, and what was once the potting shed (now a guest cottage).
When the couple bought the property, the caretaker’s cottage was owned by a neighbor. Beyer and Loope expressed their interest in purchasing the property, and he opted to sell a short time later, allowing Beyer and Loope to reunite the properties for the first time in 80 years.
“We closed on December 1, 2021,” Loope says. “I carried my wife over the threshold at noon and the dumpster arrived at 3 p.m.”
Beyer has design in her DNA. “My mother was highly regarded as a designer in Milwaukee,” she says of her mother, Diana Van Hecke. “Anyone who had a fabulous home or office in the late ‘60s through the ‘80s hired my mother to design their space, including the Governor’s Mansion. I grew up with her fabulous taste and own many of her extraordinary pieces of art and furniture.”
Study. The Harold Haydon drawing above the sofa was sourced from Richard Norton Gallery.
Dining room
ESTATE BY DESIGN
Beyer and Loope bought Westmoreland Farm with the understanding that the seller (who had lived in the home for more than two decades) was including everything inside.
“He truly left everything—down to the Ziploc bags in the kitchen,” Beyer says. While it was a process to sort through the previous owner’s belongings, Beyer discovered and salvaged a number of treasures.
“I approached designing this house the same way I advise my clients to,” Beyer explains, who first had all the home’s floors redone and the walls freshly painted. “Everything has a story, and I encourage my clients to embrace those things. It’s part of the magic of a home. I don’t like to throw away and start over. So, where I could, I used some of the beautiful pieces that were left for us.”
One example can be found in the dining room where the couple chose to keep the seller’s dining room table and chairs. Beyer restored the table and reupholstered the chairs in a pale yellow leather.
“It was a puzzle trying to figure out what would stay and what would go,” Beyer says. “I’m a designer and have lots of my own things. But this table and chairs have so much life left and worked beautifully with a breakfront that was my mother’s. And I loved learning that the Lee Jofa wallpaper I chose for this room had been used as a fabric in another of A.B. Dick’s homes.” Before leaving the dining room, Beyer points to the “dueling” silver chests on opposite ends of the room—one that belonged to Loope’s mother and one that belonged to her own.
“I have family everywhere around me in this house,” she says, sharing that many of the home’s light fixtures have been refurbished at Phoenix Lamp & Antiques, a store managed by her son.
“I want our sons to know the history of every piece in this house— when we got it and where it came from. I know how I treasure the things I have from my mother. I hope our family will as well.”
Just a few steps from the dining room is a four-season sitting room anchored by a Hungarian coffee table Beyer found at The Golden Triangle in Chicago. “I had never seen anything like this,” she says. “Ryc wondered what I was going to do with it, and I told him to just watch me.”
Framing this unique table is a sofa and two chairs finished in a bold geometric pattern with intricately embroidered pillows the couple brought home from a trip to Shanghai. Over the fireplace, Beyer hung a copper etching—an art form she enjoys incorporating into her designs.
“My mother always said that you don’t need to ‘gild the lily,’” she observes of her meticulously edited rooms. “You need to give the eye a place to rest. I think my home is pretty full, but it’s full of things that have meaning to us.”
It was important to Beyer to document her home’s special history within its four walls. Working with Carol Summerfield, executive director of the History Center of Lake Forest-Lake Bluff and Maddie Dugan, a descendant of A.B. Dick, Beyer was able to cull details together of Westmoreland Farm’s heritage before hiring Simes Studios out of Chicago to create a mural that now adorns the home’s foyer.
“I had a ball working on this,” she says of the project that took six months to complete. “I couldn’t believe how they made this home’s story come to life. It was all rendered and hand-painted on two horizontal pieces of canvas. They were applied to the wall just like wallpaper.”
The Salon with artwork sourced from Richard Norton Gallery above the fireplace.
Four-season sitting room
ESTATE BY DESIGN
When Beyer and Loope took on Westmoreland Farm, their goal was to make it into more than just their home—it was to be the site of their new creative venture. Loope knew from the moment he saw the real estate listing that the barn would house their architectural and design operations—the STUDIO @ Westmoreland Farm™.
“This is the working part of the A.B. Dick estate,” Loope says, as he welcomes guests into the 4,000-square-foot loft above what was once the carriage barn. “I feel very inspired in this space with its early-Americana feel, its solid hickory posts and beams. It was fun to repurpose what was once a storage space into an active studio space. I think it’s inspiring for clients to see this. It shows them what can be and gives them confidence that we know what we’re doing.”
The barn was filled with hidden treasures like an old hay sling hanging above the pool table. The four Doric columns that now stand at the studio’s entryway were from the pergola at the original manor house. And a glass window artfully suspended in the studio was from the greenhouse.
“James Gamble Rogers and A.B. Dick put effort into designing these working buildings,” Loope says. “If you look at the cottages, they were beautifully detailed. These were the working man’s buildings, not the rich man’s buildings but they had an architectural dialogue with the main house. As designers, we really appreciate that labor of love, that intellectual effort to make it happen. Rogers was one of America’s preeminent architects and his work has stood the test of time. We were so happy to reinvigorate a building that he had poured his time and talent into. Rogers also designed the old Yale campus. Kind of funny that early in my life I was surrounded by Rogers’ buildings at Yale and here I am in the
twilight of my career surrounded by his buildings again—a great circle of life thing that has been fun for me.”
While most of Beyer and Loope’s home and studio projects were finished within just months of them taking ownership, their exterior landscape continues to evolve. Former CEO of the Chicago Botanic Garden Barbara Carr, who once lived at Westmoreland Farm, leaned into her expertise for the layout of the gardens. Today, Beyer and Loope are working with Rosborough Partners to make the improvements.
Midwest plants and trees have given the couple a few reasons for pause. “We didn’t expect a $60,000 tree removal bill our first few months in the house,” says Beyer with a laugh. “But we do understand historical architecture and design. The challenges always come with amazing rewards.”
To learn more about the STUDIO @ Westmoreland Farm, visit studioatwf.com.
STUDIO @ Westmoreland Farm™ located in the loft space of Westmoreland Farm’s carriage barn
Salon
HOME DESIGN
DIRECT TO THE SOURCE
Get unbeatable pricing with or without your designer at Loomcraft Vernon Hills. With a world-class workroom for custom drapery and reupholstery, Loomcraft’s 20,000-square-foot store is a must-visit before any home décor projects.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SL-F
As the holiday season approaches, now is the perfect time to consider how to make your home warm, inviting, and beautiful for family gatherings and festive celebrations. Loomcraft Fabric Outlet specializes in custom upholstery and drapery services that can transform your living space, ensuring your home is ready to shine during this special time of year. As a one-stopshop that offers free professional design services with trained staff, Loomcraft exceeds expectations. One drive to Vernon Hills could save you thousands of dollars.
Many customers underestimate the time it takes to design and execute custom projects, often waiting until the last minute to start their orders. By beginning your shopping now, you can avoid the holiday rush and guarantee that your home looks stunning when guests arrive. Imagine gathering with loved ones around a beautifully reupholstered sofa or enjoying a festive dinner surrounded by chairs that reflect your personal style. Loomcraft’s extensive selection of fabrics—from rich velvets to durable linens—offers endless possibilities to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere that captures the spirit of the season.
Drapery can play a vital role in enhancing your home’s aesthetic. Custom curtains and drapes add elegance and warmth, framing your windows beautifully and controlling light and privacy. With
a variety of styles, colors, and patterns available, you can select drapery that complements your upholstery and overall decor. Whether you prefer flowing sheer fabrics for a soft, airy feel or heavier materials for a dramatic look, Loomcraft’s drapery services provide the perfect finishing touch to any room. Offering custom Roman shades and Pinnacle blinds, Loomcraft saves you money by getting them directly from the source.
As the holidays approach quickly, it’s essential to start your custom projects as soon as possible. By placing your order now, you’ll ensure that your home is beautifully prepared for holiday gatherings. This expert team is ready to assist you in choosing the perfect fabrics and styles to fit your vision, helping you create a space that is both welcoming and festive.
Loomcraft invites you to their open-to-the-public retail store with over 3,000 in-stock designer fabrics, window displays, and accessories. At Loomcraft Fabric Outlet, their team is excited to help you create a beautiful space filled with joy and warmth for the holidays. Start your journey with Loomcraft today to make this season truly memorable.
Loomcraft Fabric Outlet is located at 645 Lakeview Parkway in Vernon Hills, right near the Vernon Hills Police Department and Portillo’s. For more information, call 847-680-1119, email vhstore@loomcraft.com, or visit thefabricoutlet.com.
HOME STYLE
01 Sola Dining Chair, luluandgeorgia.com 02 Cupla Studio Caramella Lantern in Coco, cuplastudio.co.uk 03 Parachute Linen Bedding in Java, Parachute Home Chicago, 872-588-8107 04 ASSOULINE The Living Room, assouline.com 05 Salt Dish III by Stephanie Dawn Matthias, luluandgeorgia. com 06 Alain Saint-Joanis Julia Gold-Plated Rosewood Flatware Set, modaoperandi.com 07 Whitten Indoor Outdoor Pillow, luluandgeorgia. com 08 ASSOULINE Secret Stays, assouline.com 09 BoConcept Chair, boconcept.com 10 Arhaus Brixton Lamp, Arhaus Old Orchard, 847-2725424 11 The Edition 94 Salty Caramel Stripe Handblown Murano Glass, theedition94.com 12 Arhaus Astor End Table, Arhaus Old Orchard, 847272-5424 13 Daniel House Club Fearne Accent Chair, danielhouse.club 14 Jonathan Adler Ojai Chainstitch Pillow, Jonathan Adler Chicago, 312274-9920 15 Sixpenny Ziki Dining Chair, sixpenny.com 16 Nuno Splatter Stoneware Bowl, Hudson Grace Glencoe, 847-557-0599 17 Westlawn Sofa, luluandgeorgia.com 18 Renata Mirror, luluandgeorgia.com 19 Arhaus Finnley Cabinet, Arhaus Old Orchard, 847-272-5424 20 BoConcept Collection, boconcept.com
As
HEATING & COOLING CAHILL COOL
the seasons change, the technicians at Cahill Heating in Lake Bluff keep your HVAC humming on all cylinders.
WORDS BY MITCH HURST / PHOTOGRAPHY BY MONICA KASS ROGERS
For more than 50 years, Cahill Heating & Cooling of Lake Bluff has helped keep North Shore residents cool in the summer and warm in the winter. With the cool weather about to descend on us once again,
Paul Dale, a technician at Cahill, says the best advice he has for homeowners to stay comfortable throughout the year is to make sure their HVAC units are serviced, and the sooner the better.
“It’s never too early to call a technician. We can do it pretty much any time of year,” Dale says. “The thing is to get it done early because the earlier you get it done you don’t have to worry about us being too busy. We’re going to have hundreds of people calling for maintenance at the same time.”
And it’s not just single-family homeowners who come calling. Cahill services apartment and condo buildings and recently was awarded the contract to replace HVAC units at the Ravines, a ten-story condo building in Highland Park.
Amateurs need not apply. A crane is required to lift the new HVAC units up the 10 stories to the roof of the building, where Cahill technicians will install them. It’s a job for a company with Cahill’s experience serving residents of the North Shore.
“The condo association put the entire building out to bid to replace all of the heating and cooling equipment, and we were awarded the project,” says Chris McNelly, co-owner of Cahill. “I pass by the building every day and one of the residents called and I said, ‘hey, we’ve got this.’”
One thing led to another, and Cahill was soon bidding on the project.
“We were able to get them better equipment at a lower price,” McNelly says. “It was the fact that Cahill buys so many furnaces and air conditioners that allowed us to leverage our buying power.”
For Cahill co-owner Brandon Delfino, being an integral part of the North Shore community and building relationships with customers has always been one of the company’s underlying values.
“We’re owned and operated locally, and that is a differentiating factor in our everyday decision-making,” Delfino says. “It’s the driving motivation behind everything we do.”
Because Cahill is community focused and not part of a patchwork of companies that have morphed into national conglomerates—a trend in the HVAC industry—Cahill establishes strong relationships with its customers who in turn keep coming back to the company year after year to service their HVAC units.
These conglomerates tend to focus on upselling and maximizing profits, and as a result many technicians have switched over to
Cahill from larger outfits because they felt more like salespeople than mechanics. Cahill is still large enough to be there for customers when needed.
“In the heating and cooling business, the number one expense is equipment. With our scale, we pay half of what a small operation pays for the same equipment,” Delfino says. “It allows us to offer lower pricing, constantly reinvest in training—talent is everything—and provide 24/7 service. If a furnace goes out at two in the morning, a technician can be there within an hour.”
For more information visit cahillheating.com or call 847-595-1551.
Chris McNelly, Brandon Delfino
Alicia LeBeouf, Meta’s Head of Retail & Ecommerce
wearing Dolce&Gabbana, Neiman Marcus Northbrook
A CLICK AWAY
Retail veteran Alicia LeBeouf helps companies with digital transformation.
WORDS BY THOMAS CONNORS / PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP
STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA / HAIR & MAKEUP BY MARGARETA KOMLENAC
We never know where our early work experiences will lead us. The college sophomore flipping burgers for the summer could well decide to become a chef. The high schooler babysitting on the weekends may find a career in early childhood development. For Alicia LeBeouf, fond memories of convincing strangers to buy Girl Scout Cookies ignited her interest in sales and commerce. “I loved the transaction between the buyer and seller and convincing people that a Girl Scout Cookie was the product missing from their lives at that moment.” Following her undergraduate and graduate studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, LeBeouf started her career in the Charlotte mayor’s office recruiting companies to hire at-risk youth as summer interns. To make extra money on the weekend, she took a job on the sales floor of Banana Republic. “Early on,” she recalls, “I only treated my retail job as a side gig, but the nostalgia of selling, running a business, and merchandising reminded me of my Girl Scout days. Since the heart of retail is about people and providing customer service, I knew my experience building an internship program would translate well into the retail industry.” After a random encounter with a recruiter during the financial crisis in 2008, LeBeouf left the familiarity of working in local government to pursue her passion—connecting people with products.
For more than a decade, LeBeouf has been a leader in the corporate suite, first at Target—in a variety of roles spanning corporate security, store operations, strategy, and supplier diversity— and now at Meta, where she leads a national team as the Head of Retail & Ecommerce, a revenue-generating division that supports digital advertising and commerce for the largest retailers in the country. “I am responsible for helping big box retailers, grocers, and marketplaces leverage our family suite of apps—Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp—to advertise, engage consumers, and conduct commerce,” she explains. “Ultimately, I am working with retailers to help them better understand the role that ‘social media’ and digital can play in driving profitable growth.”
The way we shop has changed dramatically since Amazon kicked into high gear in the early 2000s. Because of the pandemic, even traditional in-store shoppers who had never placed an online order found themselves embracing technology to discover and shop. “While many of those consumers have returned to shopping in physical stores,” observes LeBeouf, “brands are learning to meet customers where they are and create a multi-channel experience that allows people to shop when, where, and how they want to and on their terms. That could mean a weekly visit to your local grocery store, or a midnight impulse buy while scrolling Instagram. Embracing digital allows brands to stay competitive and extend their relationship with consumers beyond the aisles of a store.”
While a number of retailers have closed stores and scaled back expansion plans, LeBeouf doesn’t see stores disappearing com-
pletely anytime soon. “I believe retailers need to be strategic about where they have physical stores and capitalize on locations where they are getting ideal foot traffic,” she notes. “And there are some departments within stores that desperately need to be reimagined—like electronics—so that every footprint of the real estate is intentional and driving sales. Ultimately, the customer journey online and in the store needs to be complementary and retailers should invest in the infrastructure to be great at both.”
Well into her career, LeBeouf remains keenly engaged with her work, thrilled by the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. “We are at such an exciting and transformational time in retail. Local malls used to be filled with only traditional retail stores, but now we are seeing direct-to-consumer brands build storefronts as a way to have a physical showroom to display merchandise. Legacy brands are forced to pivot to manage unprecedented operational challenges like labor shortages, inflation, and global supply chain issues. Convenience is king, and ‘fast fashion’ continues to win shopping baskets across America, especially for Gen Z and Millennials who embrace social media to discover and research products. Creators are the new currency to build brand affinity, and several businesses are testing artificial intelligence capabilities to drive operational efficiency. All these shifts require businesses to innovate and adapt quickly to stay competitive.”
LeBeouf grew up in Charlotte, North Carolina, where her father started as one of the few Black engineers at IBM in the 1970s and her mother worked in insurance. Her parents have been married for 48 years and raised three children (LeBeouf is the middle child). LeBeouf describes herself as a true Southern girl who loves hosting and usually welcomes guests with freshly baked pound cake when they come to visit. “My childhood was filled with family vacations to the Carolina coasts, visits to grandparents, and church,” she shares. “Achievement was always an expectation, and I knew failure and laziness were not an option. I loved learning and in school, I gravitated toward student council, Girl Scouts, and clubs that focused on leadership and entrepreneurship.”
LeBeouf moved to Minneapolis for Target, then had a small stint back in Charlotte before moving to the Chicago area almost four years ago to join Meta. Her husband, Marcus LeBeouf, simultaneously became the first general counsel for the Chicago Blackhawks. “After searching for a home for a few months,” says the mother of two, “we visited Wilmette and immediately fell in love with the area. With its cobblestone streets and greenery, it reminds me of my Southern roots and the community is amazing. The Wilmette neighborhood has several gems that have become part of my weekly routine. I love meeting my trainer at Redefined Fitness and taking my son, Marcus (8), and daughter, Sydney (6), to the Wilmette Public Library.” Not surprisingly, with a busy job and young children, LeBeouf prioritizes convenience and does most of her shopping online—perhaps even coming full circle by buying from a Virtual Girl Scout Cookie Booth.
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Laura Sage, co-founder of the Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation
THE GOOD FIGHT
Laura Sage and the
Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation
go all out this fall in the quest for a cure.
WORDS BY THOMAS CONNORS / PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA PONCE STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA / HAIR & MAKEUP BY LEANNA ERNEST
October is a busy month for Laura Sage. On the 24th, the Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation—co-founded by Laura with a small group of family and friends and established in honor of her mother— hosts “An Evening of Hope In Our Fight Against Breast Cancer” at Theater on the Lake in Lincoln Park. Last year’s event drew approximately 800 supporters and raised more than $1.2 million. Since its inception in 1985, the foundation has raised more than $45 million for breast cancer research and the education of future breast cancer researchers and doctors.
The foundation has been a defining component of Laura’s life since she was a teenager when she lost her mother to breast cancer in 1984. She served on the Junior Board for many years and assumed various leadership roles—treasurer, chair—before advancing to oversight of all daily operations as executive director. Once a new executive director is in place, she plans to devote more time to strategic initiatives. “My strengths lie in development and fundraising efforts, and I’m excited to continue in that capacity. I am eternally grateful for the smart and engaged group of people who ensure that the foundation flourishes—it’s truly a collaborative effort, not a one-woman show.”
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so in addition to its key fundraiser—which honors Dr. Olusimbo Ige, the new Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Public Health—the foundation and its supporters are active on all fronts. On October 8, approximately 70 Team Lynn Sage runners participated in the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Then there’s Chicago’s In Good Taste, the longstanding initiative in which participating restaurants donate proceeds from designated menu items ordered throughout the month. “A new fundraising initiative we are excited about involves a sculpture that will live on Michigan Avenue,” relates Laura. “We commissioned local artist Matthew Hoffman to create a larger-than-life work around the word ‘hope’ that honors the one in eight women diagnosed with breast cancer. I’m currently looking for donors who’d like naming opportunities. It’s a lovely way to honor or memorialize someone who has been affected by breast cancer and demonstrate support for our cause.”
Behind the scenes, staff and board members ensure that funded doctors submit progress reports that can be shared with donors. The foundation funds scholars, researchers, and fellows each year. “What I’m most proud of,” says Laura, “is the Lynn Sage Scholar Awards provided to young researchers within the first seven years of their career and the Lynn Sage Research Awards funding novel and potentially groundbreaking theories by more experienced
practitioners. Our seed funding promotes innovation and the data collection necessary to secure larger investments by government agencies such as the National Institutes for Health and the Department of Defense.”
Earlier this year, the foundation established the Chicago Breast Cancer Research Consortium, bringing together the UChicago, Northwestern Medicine, and RUSH MD Anderson Cancer Center to collaborate on breast cancer clinical trials. “Patients don’t have to switch their doctors to start a trial, and trials will be offered at facilities throughout Chicago including North Shore locations,” notes Laura. “We’ve allocated 20 percent of our budget specifically to ensure that a diverse group of patients can access these advanced treatments. Practical matters like childcare, transportation, and missing work often prevent patients from receiving the care they need. Our goal is to reduce barriers as much as possible. We are committed to funding the Consortium for at least the next five years.”
When Laura’s mother got sick, cancer was still the silent sickness, something people whispered about. Thankfully, that is no longer the case, and the Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation— one of the nation’s leading breast cancer research and education organizations—has been instrumental in changing hearts and minds. Still, the challenge remains. “Regrettably, most people end up being affected by breast cancer,” says Laura. “Either they get sick or know someone who does. This pervasiveness keeps people aware and empathetic to our mission to eradicate breast cancer.”
For more information, visit lynnsage.org.
Hope sculpture by local artist Matthew Hoffman that will live on Michigan Avenue. The direction was to create a larger-than-life work around the word “hope” that honors the one in eight women diagnosed with breast cancer. Sage is currently looking for donors who would like naming opportunities.
IF THESE HALLS COULD TALK
As Deer Path Inn marks its 95th anniversary this year, we reflect on the legacy of an iconic Lake Forest institution that shares its history with the city and the North Shore’s prominent families.
WORDS BY SHERRY THOMAS
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF DEER PATH INN AND THE HISTORY CENTER OF LAKE FOREST-LAKE BLUFF
When the Deer Path Inn opened its doors on Illinois Road in 1929, Lake Forest’s elite were delighted. Finally, those who didn’t want to open their summer estates for the season had a well-appointed place to weekend in the country, enjoy the new Onwentsia clubhouse, and all the glamour the evolving North Shore society scene had to offer.
The small inns and boarding houses that had sprung up since the burgeoning town was founded couldn’t hold a candle to this regal creation by the legendary architectural firm of Holabird & Root—an elegant, European-style hotel with half-timber and stucco details inspired by traditional manor houses in Chiddingstone, Kent, England.
“Being right down the road from Onwentsia, it really filled that role for people who were coming up for the weekend from Chicago who either didn’t have a summer residence in Lake Forest or didn’t want to open it and have the expense of bringing their staff in,” explains Laurie Stein, Deputy Director and Head of Curation of the History Center of Lake Forest-Lake Bluff, adding that the Deer Path Inn had been in the planning stages throughout the 1920s during the height of the great estate era. “It also became a place to gather for the garden clubs and other groups forming in the 1920s.”
The years that follow the historic debut flutter by like pages from a society page’s “Who’s Who” column. Weddings were lavish. Birthdays were monumental. And the fashion shows and parties were the talk of the town.
“In the 1930s and 1940s, the Deer Path Inn was so much the social hub of Lake Forest that the Lake Forester newspaper included a column titled ‘News from the Deer Path Inn,’ which included all the personal details of friends and neighbors that we would find in social media posts today,” says Stein, who fondly refers to the hotel as one of the “crown jewels” of the community. “The history of the Inn mirrors the history of the town. It also played an essential role as the key host for events like the Lake Forest Horse Show and the 1933 East-West Polo matches.”
In 1938, a fire that ravaged part of the Deer Path Inn put Lake Forest on high alert and captured a national audience. It is estimated that 6,000 people gathered to watch the spectacle.
“It was filmed by a local movie theater owner and shown all over the country,” says Stein, noting that the story behind the fire was less about the destruction and more about how the community gathered to save valuable artifacts and ensure all 95 guests got out safely. “The Inn’s switchboard operator, Dorothy Baker, stayed inside to make sure all the guests were out before leaving the building.”
The Inn was rebuilt and reopened later that year, ushering in the first of many new chapters that now span generations of family milestones, a major renovation in 2016, and nearly a century of stories.
James Barnett, who joined Deer Path Inn as General Manager earlier this year, continues to be awed at the number of families who return to the hotel to relive and recreate the special occasions their parents and grandparents also celebrated at the Inn.
“It’s one thing for a property to be physically standing and operating still very true to how it was, but the amount of people who come back to celebrate and share those memories is astonishing,” he says. “From anniversaries to holidays, it’s multigenerational and people are still using Deer Path Inn as part of their family traditions.”
Deer Path Inn facade
One of the Deer Path Inn bicycles used to explore Lake Forest
The English Room
“Some things will never change—especially that feeling you get when you walk in and know this is a real social gathering place for the community.”
Today, alongside its rightful place on the National Register of Historic Places, the Deer Path Inn continues to claim global honors. Earlier this year, it was named the #1 Resort Hotel in the Midwest by Travel + Leisure and the 66th best in the world.
“We’re so proud,” says Barnett, adding that the honor means even more because it is a reader’s choice award. “It’s been five times now that we’ve been the winner of the best Midwest resort, and I think it goes back to the high level of personalized service and the English innkeeping spirit we have been providing for nearly a century.”
As he’s been working with the team on special events to mark Deer Path Inn’s 95th anniversary—from themed summer soiree parties to an upcoming event that invites guests to “dine like it’s 1929”—Barnett is reflecting on the hotel’s past and present with a vision for the future.
“We’re always looking for ways to elevate the guest experience. The dress code has been relaxed over the years, and we’ve made things a little more accessible. I think people feel more welcome to come into the English Room or any space at any time, with or without a reservation,” he says. “But some things will never change—especially that feeling you get when you walk in and know this is a real social gathering place for the community. Deer Path Inn has been embedded in the history of Lake Forest since the very beginning and that will never change.”
For more information about the Deer Path Inn’s 95-year history and upcoming anniversary events, visit thedeerpathinn.com.
Hearth Room
Guest room
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We are also pleased to feature unique antique accessories and furniture curated by Lee Youngstrom of Barrington, in collaboration with Irongate Designs, exclusively at RUGPORT.
Power Women
As you are about to see on the pages that follow, the North Shore is filled with strong, bold, influential Power Women who are leaders in their fields. And yet despite this success, many report having to work twice as hard as their male peers to get there. One of the questions we asked this year’s Power Women honorees was how women should support other women, particularly the next generation of leaders. The responses were very similar with one common denominator—mentorship. Most of the professionals we feature had that one person who made a difference in their lives and helped them open doors that may have been closed otherwise. These women are entrepreneurs, business owners, financial planners, medical professionals, interior designers, real estate experts, educators, party planners, and innovators who lead by example and stand as an inspiration for those around them. Join us as we celebrate the North Shore’s powerful women and all that they contribute, personally and professionally, to the towns we call home.
PRODUCED BY KEMMIE RYAN
EDITED BY JANIS MVK AND SHERRY THOMAS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP AND BOB & DAWN DAVIS PHOTOGRAPHY & DESIGN
STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA
HAIR & MAKEUP BY LEANNA ERNEST AND MARGARETA KOMLENAC
EDITORIAL & PRODUCTION ASSISTANT: CHEYANNE LENCIONI
If you like what you see in these pages, please know that this special section was met with resounding enthusiasm and is now a recurring annual feature. Feel free to recommend a North Shore Power Woman for our 2025 feature at jwcmedia.com/sr-power-woman.
“It is not only for what we do that we are held responsible, but also for what we do not do.”
– MOLIÈRE
VISIONARY MISSION
MAR SORAPARU is a visionary entrepreneur and driving force behind BIÂN—a Chicago-based luxury private club for wellness, work, and community. BIÂN was conceived by Mar and her fellow co-founders with a shared mission of creating the world's most comprehensive space for living a vital life, opening its doors in November 2020. Soraparu’s multifaceted background spanning finance, sociology, wellness, and coaching has proved invaluable in support of this endeavor and has been instrumental in her success. Her authentic leadership and partnership has guided BIÂN as it has achieved substantial growth and garnered both industry recognition and accolades. “Most satisfying is the supportive and inspiring ecosystem the concept has created,” says Soraparu, who earned a degree in sociology at UCLA and has achieved numerous certifications as a Board-Certified Coach (BCC) through the Center for Credentialing and Education. “This environment enables members to take action in their pursuit of a life of greater well-being—a reality made possible by an unwavering dedication to BIÂN’s mission.”
Most rewarding part of what you do? Meaningful work that positively impacts the health, well-being, and fulfillment of individuals, teams, and organizations continuously motivates me. Seeing this positive impact every day inspires me to set an example for my peers and children—demonstrating the importance of putting in effort and rising to all challenges.
How should women support other women? When women respect themselves and take ownership of their lives, they inspire other women to do the same.
How do you inspire others? I would like to think that I inspire others by not letting much of anything deter me from what I set out to achieve. Finding purpose in the hardest and often unglamorous tasks, and taking pride in that work, is truly fulfilling.
For more information, visit livebian.com and follow @livebian and @mar.mindset on Instagram.
“Expect nothing. Appreciate everything.”
– HIRA ALAM
VISIONARY FOUNDER
With a lifelong dedication to athleticism, DR. MEG MOORE embarked on her professional journey within the sports industry, commencing with an illustrious eight-year tenure at adidas Sports Licensed Division and adidas Running. Her passion then led her to Gatorade, where she collaborated closely with collegiate athletes, trainers, and physical therapists/rehabilitation specialists. Driven by an unwavering commitment to the field, Moore pursued her Doctoral degree in Physical Therapy at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. Her pursuit of excellence did not stop there; she earned her certification as a Pilates Instructor (CMA) as well as her Perinatal Corrective Exercise Specialist Certification (PCES) with a special interest in treating and educating the perinatal population. Today, Moore stands as the visionary founder of reform PT + Pilates in Wilmette. Here, she seamlessly fuses the realms of Pilates and Physical Therapy to provide a holistic approach to both rehabilitation and injury prevention. Moore's expertise and passion are the driving forces behind her mission to empower individuals in achieving their optimal physical wellbeing.
Most rewarding part of what you do? Seeing the progress and improvement in my clients and patients is truly one of the most rewarding aspects of my job. From the PT perspective, witnessing someone regain strength, mobility, and function is incredibly gratifying.
How should women support other women? Women should support one another in order to foster solidarity, empowerment, and success by celebrating achievements, offering mentorship, creating networking opportunities, facilitating connections, providing emotional support, promoting each other, building a supportive community, and leading by example.
How do you inspire others? As a mother of three young boys (ages 2, 5, and 8), running a household and a small business is no easy task. I hope that I empower women to know they can have it all and do it all!
For more information, visit reformphysicaltherapy.com and follow @reformptandpilates on Instagram.
“A lot of hard work is hidden behind nice things.”
– RALPH LAUREN
COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE
JULIE BRADBURY MILLER and STACY BURGOON are dedicated North Shore real estate professionals with a passion for luxury properties. They first began working together at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, where Bradbury Miller served as the managing broker, then made the pivotal decision to join Compass in 2023 with a shared vision of cultivating a team centered on collaboration and leveraging each member's unique strengths. Their goal at the Bradbury Miller & Burgoon Group is to create an environment where individual expertise is celebrated and harnessed to elevate the entire team. By fostering a culture of mutual support and knowledge sharing, they aim to empower every team member to excel—ultimately creating a dynamic and harmonious real estate powerhouse at Compass. Their commitment to excellence has positioned the team as trusted advisors for clients seeking high-end real estate opportunities on the North Shore. Both Bradbury Miller and Burgoon have raised their families on the North Shore, giving them an intimate knowledge of the community.
Most rewarding part of what you do? The opportunity to make a meaningful impact in clients' lives. Whether it's finding the perfect dream home or navigating complex transactions, the satisfaction of guiding clients through these processes and witnessing their joy and relief upon successful problem-solving is truly fulfilling.
How should women support other women? Supporting other women in the real estate industry is crucial for fostering a collaborative and empowering professional environment. Encouraging diversity and amplifying the voices of women in real estate not only benefits individuals but also contributes to a more inclusive and innovative industry as a whole.
How do you inspire others? Our unwavering commitment to integrity and a collaborative approach not only defines our professional ethos but also serves as an inspiration to others in the real estate industry.
For more information, visit compass.com/agents/bradbury-miller&-burgoon and follow @bradburymillerandburgoon, @stacyburgoonrealestate, and @jbradmil on Instagram.
Stacy Burgoon Julie Bradbury Miller
“I never dreamed of success, I worked for it.”
– ESTEE LAUDER
CUSTOM HOME DESIGN
Over the past two decades, ELIZABETH SCOTT has been creating beautiful homes for her North Shore clients from her Lake Forest-based Elizabeth Scott Design Group. “We love designing custom homes from the blueprint stage through to the last accessory being placed,” she says. “Each of our homes reflects our clients’ style and taste and functions so well for their day-to-day living. We have won many industry awards throughout the course of our business, and have been honored to be featured in many magazines for our work.”
Most rewarding part of what you do? When we unveil a client’s custom home to them after building and furnishing it from the ground up and hear them say “it’s even more beautiful than I thought it was going to be,” it is the best reward we could ever get.
How should women support other women? Be there for them, listen to what they need and help them get there. Applaud their successes.
How do you inspire others? One of our pillars to our company is getting better every day. We are constantly seeking to be better in everything we do and hope this inspires everyone that is around us to do the same. Our competition is only with ourselves.
Definition of success? Achieving our goals in every facet of our lives, not only business. As women we wear so many hats, and each is important to the overall success of you as a person. Our family is always number one, great health, good friends, enjoying life, and having peace. Peace is a big one.
Greatest risk you’ve taken as a professional? Oh, there have been so many. As an entrepreneur, however, betting on myself has always paid off, and then some!
For more information, visit elizabethscottdesigngroup.com and follow @elizabethscottdesign on Instagram.
“Fight for the things that you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.”
– RUTH BADER GINSBURG
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
AGI CORONA SEMRAD, founder of The Balance Project, embodies the belief that everyone has the power to make a difference. The Balance Project is a Highland Park-based nonprofit dedicated to providing mental and emotional wellness support. Semrad’s passion for helping others was instilled in her from a young age, growing up in a Chicago household that valued strong beliefs and community involvement. Reflecting on her upbringing, Semrad recalls, “I grew up in a household that required each member to do their share. We didn’t call it charity. We were doing our part.” A native of Chicago, Semrad attended DePaul University before spending the first six years of her career as an educator. However, her true calling led her to earn a master’s degree in counseling. Today, she balances her time between her work as a trauma-informed therapist and her leadership role at The Balance Project. Semrad is deeply committed to making mental health care accessible and de-stigmatized for all. She is also a proud mother of two daughters, whom she is raising to be strong and compassionate women.
Most rewarding part of what you do? I take great pride in the community we have built over the years—from the individuals we've helped to the incredible volunteers and providers we work with. Seeing changes in someone's life as a result of our support is profoundly powerful.
How should women support other women? I’m constantly looking to give mentorship opportunities for those wanting to get involved. When I see someone doing something remarkable, I make sure to pull them into my network and amplify their efforts.
How do you inspire others? To inspire others, you need to rise up yourself and then ask others to rise with you. By showing your commitment and passion, you lead by example.
For more information, visit thebalance-project.org, follow @thebalance_project on Instagram, and TBPbetterbalance on Facebook.
“Just show up, as you are. That’s enough. That’s more than enough. That’s everything.”
– SCOTT STABILE
TRANSFORMING HOMES
With years of experience at the Walt Disney Company and Michelin-starred Everest Restaurant in Chicago, AMY CHUNG knows the importance of service and the human element of real estate. “As Realtors, we are not just helping buy and sell homes but helping people transform their lives,” says Chung, who works with her husband as part of the Dave + Amy Chung real estate team at Compass. “Service and community are invaluable elements of the home-buying process that inspire hope and a sense of possibility.” She helps her clients literally transform homes, bringing an unexpected yet inspired skillset to the buying and selling process. Her eye for elegant form and straightforward function inspires calm, sophisticated, and highly livable interiors. From space planning to staging, using her personal staging warehouse, Chung helps sellers organize, prepare, and present exactly what potential buyers are looking for.
Most rewarding part of what you do? In real estate, you don't just sell homes. You need to use every skill you have ever learned, from home repairs to housekeeping to landscaping to design and architecture. It is so rewarding to use my personal life experiences to help my clients move forward in their journey.
How should women support other women? It’s about creating space for each other to speak and be authentic. We don't have to agree on everything, but allowing each other to voice our thoughts without judgment or competition is incredibly valuable.
Powerful woman you admire the most? I’ve been fortunate to work alongside many female mentors who have inspired me with their determination, hard work, and passion for helping others. They aren’t well known to the world, but they never stop pursuing their dreams while caring for their families and serving their communities.
For more information, visit daveandamychung.com and follow @daveandamychung on Instagram.
“Dance like no one is watching, sing like no one is listening, love like you’ve never been hurt, and live like it is heaven on earth.”
– MARK TWAIN
PROJECT RUNWAY M
AGGIE STEPF has been a Senior Private Client Advisor with Moda Operandi for five years. Serving an elite clientele from the North Shore and abroad, she acts as a bridge to the fashion world, bringing runway trends directly to her clients each season. Stepf excels in crafting bespoke styles from luxury designers and jewelers, while also curating ready-to-wear apparel and accessories— ensuring a comprehensive and personalized wardrobe experience through in-home and virtual consultations. Stepf is dedicated to philanthropy, proudly working with the CARE Women’s Network to raise awareness and funds for CARE’s lifesaving work to empower and educate girls all around the world that are living below poverty line.
Most rewarding part of what you do? Seeing my clients exude confidence in the looks I've styled, especially when these styles challenge their comfort zones. I love helping women recognize their unique style and become the best versions of themselves.
How should women support other women? Women should support each other by uplifting and encouraging one another to succeed and make strides together. By doing so, we build confidence, create supportive networks, and empower women from all walks of life.
How do you inspire others? I inspire others by sharing my excitement for each season’s New York Fashion Week collections. By detailing design elements, fabrications, and inspirations, I spark my clients’ enthusiasm and encourage them to elevate their style.
Definition of success? Enjoying day-to-day life with the people around me—family, friends, clients, and colleagues. I aim for continuous personal growth and remain open to learning from new experiences.
For more information, visit modaoperandi.com and follow @maggiececile on Instagram.
Sweater and skirt by Erdem, shoes by Prada, and earrings by Mayol, from Moda Operandi. Styling by Maggie Stepf
Dr. Drake (left) wearing outfit by Veronica Beard. Dr. Maguire (center) wearing jacket by Generation Love and cashmere sweater and pleated skirt by JCrew. Dr. Houser (right) wearing dress by Apiece Apart, all from Neiman Marcus.
“Laughter is the best medicine.”
– MILTON BERLE
TRAILBLAZING TRIO
What happens when three women come together with one vision to revolutionize health care? Meet the dream team behind Doctor Daughters, an innovative medical consulting business co-founded by DR. KRISTEN MAGUIRE, DR. MELISSA DRAKE, and DR. ANN MARIE
HOUSER. “Despite all the joys and rewards bedside medicine brings, we identified fractures and holes in how patients navigate the health care system,” says Dr. Maguire, who earned her M.D. from Southern Illinois University School of Medicine and completed ER training at the University of Illinois at Chicago. “Patients are often lost, have trouble understanding what to do next or why medications or treatments are even prescribed. The days where your doctor has time to sit down and explain to you what is going on seem to be gone as a result of the modern American health care system. We wanted to provide a service where we bring that personal attention back to the patients, empowering them.” Dr. Drake, whose passion lies in diagnosing and treating complex diseases in times of stress while educating patients and their family members, says Doctor Daughters was founded on a vision for a team approach to health care. “It’s very rewarding to witness the empowerment of a patient when they are educated on their health, their medical conditions, and how it results in a healthier, better quality of life,” explains Dr. Drake, who earned her D.O. from Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences and completed an ER residency through Michigan State University. Dr. Houser, who earned a D.O. from Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, says she and her fellow founders share a creative, collective mission. “We can and will improve people's experience with health care,” she explains. “People need to feel heard and desire true understanding of their situations and we are skilled at meeting this need.”
Most rewarding part of what you do?
Dr. Drake: Seeing relief in a patient during a stressful diagnosis—relief that they understand what is going on, there is a plan and that they are not alone.
Dr. Houser: That look of relief is unmistakable. The eyes glisten, the jaw softens, the shoulders relax, the breath comes easier. It's the same look with students, patients, and families—the look that reminds me we made a difference.
Dr. Maguire: I love helping all people at all stages of their lives. I help any age from two minutes old to 107 years old. I help people from all backgrounds and socioeconomic backgrounds. I don’t want to meet you in the ER but if I do, it’s hopefully because I have helped you or your family on what could be the worst day of your lives.
How should women support other women?
Dr. Drake: Ruth Bader Ginsburg said, “Women should be in every room decisions are made.” I couldn't agree more! Women have the unique perspective of innate caregiving and the gift of women’s intuition. It’s real and I see it in our practice daily.
Dr. Houser: Women and their journeys are more alike than not. Topics and timelines might be different, but the themes are often the same. Sharing the lessons we've learned from experiences, especially the painful ones, makes another's journey easier.
Dr. Maguire: I believe there is room for everyone at the top. We all experience the same obstacles getting there. Why not help one another achieve our goals? We’re much better together anyway.
For more information, visit doctordaughters.com or follow @doctordaughters on Instagram and Facebook.
“Let us never negotiate out of fear. But let us never fear to negotiate.”
– JOHN F. KENNEDY
ART OF NEGOTIATION
DR. VICTORIA HUSTED MEDVEC leads by example. In addition to serving as CEO of her Medvec & Associates consulting firm for Fortune 100 clients, this sought-after global expert has been on the Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management faculty for nearly 30 years and is a tireless advocate for advancing women into senior corporate roles. As the Adeline Barry Davee Professor of Management and Organizations, she co-founded and serves as Executive Director of Kellogg’s Center for Executive Women, while publishing research in top academic journals and such media outlets as the Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, the Washington Post, and The Today Show. Dr. Medvec created the Women Director Development Program, where for the last 15 years she has helped to prepare more than 800 senior executive women for roles on boards. The Lake Forest resident and mother of two sons also speaks across the country on topics relating to women in leadership, corporate governance, and board decision making.
Most rewarding part of what you do? I love teaching people how to negotiate effectively in every situation, and I find it most rewarding when I help them to negotiate for themselves.
How should women support other women? By providing honest feedback, offering connections to others, providing access to resources and funding, and being willing to stand up for them in tough conversations. We talk about the importance of sponsorship, but the critical question is, are we willing to sponsor a deserving woman when others are not?
How do you inspire others? I speak to audiences about the strategies presented in my bestselling book, Negotiate Without Fear. I think I am most inspiring, though, when I reveal how I personally use these strategies to confidently negotiate every day in my life.
For more information, visit medvecandassociates.com.
"Design is a way to create space that is functional but also delightful and engaging. It has the power to transform the way we live and interact with the world."
– JEANNE GANG
DREAM DESIGNS
JESSICA MARGOT, owner of Jessica Margot Design, is dedicated to creating personalized environments through a collaborative approach, integrating each client’s personality and needs into exceptional living spaces. Known for blending classic and modern elements with perfect balance, Margot combines timeless pieces, custom furniture, and unique finds to reflect each client’s individuality. “Good design is timeless and never goes out of style,” says Margot, who launched her high-end, boutique residential design firm in 2004. She studied architecture in Milan through the University of Illinois-Chicago and graduated with a BFA from Chicago’s Harrington College of Design. With more than two decades of experience Margot—who approaches her interior design projects like an artist stepping to a canvas—is ready to bring her talent and expertise to your next project.
Most rewarding part about what you do? Helping clients feel like they are truly living in their dream home. It's incredibly fulfilling to transform a space into a sanctuary where they can escape the world, find peace, and feel genuinely happy. Seeing their vision come to life, even when they couldn't fully envision it themselves, and knowing they love their home is a wonderful reward.
How do you inspire others? Through my ability to see possibilities others might not—using imagination and creativity. My tenacity, drive, and independence as a female business owner sets an example. I am deeply passionate about my work and strive to balance my professional and personal life as a dedicated mother and designer.
Greatest risk you've ever taken as a professional? Venturing out on my own 20 years ago. Leaving the security of a stable job to establish my own LLC was a bold move, but it has ultimately been incredibly rewarding.
For more information, visit jessicamargot.com and follow @jessicamargotdesignofficial on Instagram.
“Just like moons and like suns, With the certainty of tides, Just like hopes springing high, Still I'll rise.”
–
FRIEDRICH NIETZSCHE
EMPOWERING CHANGE
As CEO and Founder of Beautifully New LLC, DANIELLE OYASU prides herself on helping clients to make empowering life changes that boost self-esteem and change their life trajectory. She brings six years providing compassionate care and exceptional results in the aesthetic field to the business for a combined 27 years of R.N./N.P. experience. “I have traveled across the country to attend aesthetic conferences, as well as private trainings with world-renowned experts,” she says. “My passion for providing excellence in the patient care experience has catapulted Beautifully New into a seven-figure revenue-generating MedSpa in just under four years.”
Most rewarding part of what you do? Being the ally and partner during each patient's life journey and instilling confidence along the way. Our mission statement at Beautifully New is “to ensure every patient who walks through our door makes their life the best story ever written.”
How should women support other women? At Beautifully New, my philosophy is to understand that every woman brings their life experiences to my clinic every day. Each patient has their unique stories and goals. Sometimes I meet upset patients looking to feel better at unique stages in life—from loss, breakups, weight loss, menopause, marriages, divorces, the list is endless. Being able to not only focus on the patient's aesthetic goals but understand her as a human being is a special part of what we do at Beautifully New.
How do you inspire others? By sharing my own personal journey and story and reminding everyone I meet to remember that your past doesn't define your future.
Definition of success? For me, it is spending as much time as I can with my family, providing for them, and ensuring my husband is enjoying his life as he has worked endlessly for us.
For more information, visit beautifullynew.co and follow @danielleatbnew on Instagram.
“Being brave doesn’t mean you aren’t scared. Being brave means you are scared, really scared, badly scared, and you do the right thing anyway.”
– NEIL GAIMAN, CORALINE
FIGHTING FOR YOU
MARY COLE comes to the bench with an honest and aggressive approach and a dedication to fight for you. The former Lake County prosecutor, graduate of The John Marshall Law School, and AAIM Award winner will walk you through every part of the process to ensure you understand what is happening. “I will do everything I can to protect your rights and allow you to be heard,” says Cole, who worked in prosecution and defense for government agencies as well as prestigious firms before becoming a partner at Brady Cole Trial Lawyers LLC. Her success in DUI cases, Domestic Battery charges, and Orders of Protection make her the attorney you want on your side.
Greatest risk you have taken as a professional? Throwing my name in the ring and running for Lake County State’s Attorney. I am passionate and protective of this community. It takes a completely different kind of courage to bet on yourself and ask the rest of the world to bet on you as well. It’s not brave if you aren’t scared.
What does power mean to you? Responsibility. A duty to serve and protect those around you.
Who is your role model and why? My mother, Mimi Cole, was the first of her siblings to be born in Thailand after her family fled Communist China. She spent the next few decades working in her family’s restaurant, dreaming that one day she would have a better life, which came when my uncle made his way to America and sent her a one-way plane ticket. Shortly thereafter, she met my father, David Cole. Speaking no English, with a very limited formal education, my mother opened Mimi Cole Designers Ltd. With a mother like that, what excuse could I possibly have to not chase my life?
For more information, visit bradycolelaw.com.
“Nothing is more freeing than to be able to say no at any time.”
– CODIE SANCHEZ
LADY
BOSS
COURTNEY WRIGHT values helping people and believes in “the grind.” A CEO and entrepreneur, podcast host, innovator, problem solver, wife, and mother, Wright has come far since her days at Lake Forest College. She founded CDW Merchants, a 3D visual retail display and e-commerce gift packaging provider for the nation’s top retailers including Kate Spade, Victoria’s Secret, and Club Monaco. In 2016, Wright sold CDW to Bunzl PLC and bought Gemini Builds It! and Showcase Acrylics, a leader in the framing, moulding, and custom display industry. Wright quickly expanded its offerings to become a well-known name in e-commerce, design, corporations, museums and institutions, PPE, and health care, as well as the hospitality and events industries. With her solid mix of entrepreneurial foresight, creativity, and hustle mentality, it was only natural that Wright would develop a platform to share her highly sought-after business advice. Ladyboss Podcast by Courtney Wright is a modern-day guide to business, offering listeners real conversations with other successful leaders and entrepreneurs to discuss failures, successes, and strategies. Wright is a lady boss, a female success story, and wants women to know they can have their cake and eat it too.
Most rewarding part of what you do? Helping other women grow their careers and opportunities.
How do you inspire others? Being positive, doing posts on social to get the energy up, and have ladies realize they are not alone.
Definition of success? Working towards goals and moving the needle when I get close so I continue to grow and stretch my skills.
Greatest risk you’ve taken as a professional? I bought a 40-year-old company which was in decline and reenergized it, re-imagined it and grew it. It proved to me that great risks are great rewards.
For more information, visit ladyboss.ceo, follow courtneywright1 on LinkedIn, and @ladyboss. courtneywright on Instagram.
“The quality of strength lined with tenderness is an unbeatable combination.”
– MAYA ANGELOU
GRACEFUL GUIDANCE A
t Family Law Solutions, Founder JANET BOYLE and Partner ARIN FIFE provide clients with the knowledge and guidance they need to navigate the divorce process with grace. “I am a seasoned family law attorney with extensive experience representing people in complex situations requiring finesse and knowledge of both the financial and emotional issues involved in divorce and other family law cases,” explains Boyle, who has both a law degree and an LLM in Tax. “My firm has exceptional attorneys capable of litigating or negotiating from either side of the table.” Of the more than 15 years that Fife has been practicing family law, 11 of them were working with and being mentored by Boyle. Fife enjoys helping her clients find ways to divide complex assets equitably and amicably.
Most rewarding part of what you do?
Fife: The most rewarding thing about this practice is seeing a client come into their power and regain their strength and confidence to move forward in life with the support I am able to provide throughout the process.
How should women support other women?
Boyle: Women should support each other by being role models and by being actually supportive and not always in opposition to each other.
Fife: It’s important to remember that we are stronger together.
Best piece of advice for anyone starting out?
Fife: Find a good mentor. We cannot do this alone and the wisdom we can gain from one another and our experiences is invaluable.
How do you inspire others?
Boyle: I try to be as good as I can at all I do. We should aim to be good lawyers, good neighbors, good family members, good citizens, or whatever your passion is. Don’t be rigid. Be flexible.
For more information, visit familylawsolutionschicago.com.
Janet Boyle
Arin Fife
“Change is inevitable, growth is optional.”
– JOHN MAXWELL
BOLD BEAUTY K
RISTEN CHASE, armed with a B.S. in Economics & HR from Michigan State and an MBA from Fordham University, is the gamechanging CMO of Tricoci Salon & Spa. With a bold background in global marketing and product innovation at L’Oreal and Kraft Heinz, she's spent the past three years revolutionizing Tricoci's brand, driving profits, and masterminding three innovative hair care and skin care lines. Chase’s daring strategies and creative prowess have taken the brand to electrifying new heights.
Most rewarding part of what you do? Nothing is more satisfying than watching the women I've managed, mentored, and worked alongside, advance in their lives and careers. The greatest reward is seeing others achieve remarkable things knowing that I was able to support them in some way on their journey. I was fortunate to have strong and supportive female role models, so I have experienced firsthand the value of those relationships. I believe women succeed when we lift each other up, and that shared success is more meaningful.
Greatest risk you’ve taken as a professional? While at L'Oreal, I decided to upend my career in human resources and dive into global marketing and product development. At the time, I was also enrolled in an MBA program and living alone in NYC. I was far outside my comfort zone, however, the challenge and change drove me to thrive, and the move ended up being a risk well worth taking. I have also been fortunate to have worked in environments that value risk-taking. Currently, Tricoci has supported me in my latest risk, which was launching a completely new hair care brand, Nutrire, that just made its debut!
Powerful woman you admire the most? Gloria Steinem, Beyonce, Oprah Winfrey, Mary Dillon, and Sheryl Sandberg. I love seeing bold women use their voices and overcome adversity to truly make an impact on our world.
For more information, visit tricoci.com and follow @tricoci_official and @kristenchase on Instagram.
Styling by Janet Mandell Hair & makeup by Tricoci Salon & Spa
“What you give attention to, you get more of.”
– COACH KEN DOYLE
TRUSTED ADVISORS
At the Eleven Twenty Seven Group at Morgan Stanley, Financial Advisors, DANELLE PARKER, CFP® and STACEY BARRINS, CFP® see their clients as more than a portfolio of assets. “We build relationships and establish trust through consistency and follow-through. Clients know we are accountable and understand how proper financial planning, portfolio allocation, and comprehensive estate and tax planning strategies, can positively impact their lives,” explains Parker, a northern Utah native who earned a degree in Business Marketing from Utah State University. She brings more than 18 years of experience in the financial services industry to the all-female team. Barrins, who serves as co-chair of Morgan Stanley’s national advisory council, has 20 years of experience in the business and has been named to the Forbes’ Best-In-State Wealth Advisors, Best-In-State Women Advisors, and Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams in 2024. “It is rewarding to see clients and their families benefit from making smart financial decisions,” says Barrins.
How should women support other women?
Parker: By offering mentorship, guidance, support, and knowledge to young professionals. Barrins: It is important to provide them opportunities to grow and show them ways to balance career, family, relationships and personal health.
Habit you’ve adopted that has had a significant positive change on your daily routine?
Parker: Someone once told me to take the time you need to fill up your cup. Doing so is paramount to ensuring that you approach every day as your best self.
Barrins: Working out every morning before anyone else is awake. It helps me start my day feeling a sense of accomplishment.
Best piece of advice for anyone starting out?
Barrins: Always honor your word. It is what earns trust and respect. Parker: Be patient and persistent. Nothing worthwhile happens overnight.
For more information, visit advisor.morganstanley.com/the-eleven-twenty-sevengroup.
Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors have engaged JWC Media to feature this profile. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) owns the certification mark CFP®, in the United States, which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board's initial and ongoing certification requirements.
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Danelle Parker
Stacey Barrins
“Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it.”
– MAYA ANGELOU
DECADES OF EXCELLENCE
Celebrating her 20th year of excellence as a residential real estate broker on the North Shore and having closed more than $450 million in sales, SUSAN MAMAN is renowned for her clean, sincere, and transparent commitment to her clients’ needs. An award-winning real estate broker with @properties Christie’s International Real Estate, her client base is comprised of repeat clients and referrals—a testament to her dedicated service and outcomes. As a 60-year native of the North Shore, she not only sells homes to and for her clients, but organically understands and shares with her clients virtues of the lifestyle of life of the North Shore and all it has to offer.
Most rewarding part of what you do? The greatest wins that I will treasure forever are the little things—when a client says to you that you made their day, when they call you for support or help with issues that are not only business related, when you can introduce clients to other local clients and they become friends, or when you can take an elderly client to their doctor’s appointment and then go for lunch.
Best piece of advice for anyone staring out? Be patient, authentic, and positive. This is not a sprint; it is a slow methodical walk to success. The way you lay your groundwork from the very beginning will create success for you in the future.
What did you dream of doing when you were younger? Being a food critic. I also dreamt of traveling, going to amazing restaurants, and doing reviews for them that were to be shared with the population at large. I have created this concept on a very small scale with my brochure called “North Shore Loves” that includes my favorite restaurants, ice cream shops, candy stores, and more.
For more information, visit susanmaman.com and follow @susanmamanluxuryrealestate, @susanmaman.northshore, and @susanmaman.atproperties on social media.
"We can do no great things, only small things with great love."
– MOTHER TERESA
THE CHANGEMAKER
MELISSA PAS BLAKE is a visionary mindset coach and holistic healer dedicated to activating rapid, powerful transformations. At Pasitive Solutions, her approach unlocks the potential for profound personal growth and selfdiscovery. Melissa's expertise is healing subconscious wounds, dismantling self-sabotaging patterns and addictive behaviors, and fostering unshakeable confidence and self-love. As a Licensed Clinical Hypnotherapist, Rapid Transformational Therapist (RTT), HeartHealing® Practitioner, and Health and Wellness Coach, she offers innovative methods blending hypnotherapy, shamanic wisdom, social work principles, and energy healing. This holistic approach nurtures connections between mind, body, and spirit, setting her apart in personal growth and healing. Driven by a passion for healing and armed with her education from Indiana University, Melissa empowers individuals to master their minds, heal their hearts, and expand their consciousness, guiding them to live authentically.
Most rewarding part of what you do? The most fulfilling aspect of my work is witnessing profound positive shifts in my clients' lives. Many individuals are aware of their negative behaviors but struggle to change. I guide them beyond intellectual understanding, facilitating deep emotional healing. By providing practical tools and a nurturing environment, I help clients release emotional blockages and embrace an empowered existence.
How do you inspire others? Authenticity and leading by example are at the core of my approach. I own a growth mindset, remaining curious, open to growth, and grateful for life's lessons. I aim to empower individuals to discover their inner strength and rekindle a loving relationship with themselves.
For more information, visit pasitivesolutions.com, follow @pasitivesolutions on Instagram, melissablake2 on LinkedIn, and PasitiveSolutions on Facebook.
“Do one thing every day that scares you.”
– ELEANOR ROOSEVELT
FAMILY CENTERED APPROACH
SHANA VITEK is an Equity Partner at Beermann LLP, the largest family law firm in the country. For more than 20 years, she has practiced divorce and family law— handling a wide range of cases, including divorces for business owners, highprofile, and high-net-worth clients. Her ability to handle any type of case has allowed her to become one of only a few attorneys in Illinois to be Board Certified in Family Trial Law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. “Every family is different, so each case that I handle needs an individualized approach,” she says. “All initial consultations include information about the alternatives to litigation and keeping the divorce process out of court.” In addition to being a litigator, Vitek is also a trained mediator, arbitrator, and collaborative attorney who serves as Chair of the Beermann LLP Family Law Clinic. “We feel strongly about giving back to the community,” she says. “Given the size of our firm, we are in a unique position to make a big difference for clients who would otherwise go unrepresented in family law matters.”
Most rewarding part of what you do? Helping people through a very difficult time and watching them get to a more positive place in their lives.
How should women support other women? By forming relationships with each other, both at the peer level and through mentorship. Women have unique career challenges, so it is extremely valuable to connect with other women in similar professional and personal situations.
Powerful woman you admire the most? Ruth Bader Ginsberg. She stayed true to herself and her goals, while being a wife and mother in a time when she had to fight for every opportunity.
For more information, visit beermannlaw.com and follow @shanavitek on Instagram.
Dress by Burberry from Neiman Marcus
“Be yourself so the people looking for you can find you.”
– ALEX AUBREY
NESTED WITH CARE
At Nest Estate Sales LLC, founder ANNIE ADAMS specializes in whole-home estate and moving sales with the goal of keeping items in use and out of landfills. Because no two sales are ever alike, she doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all approach. Nest Estate Sales partners with clients to create solutions that best meet individual needs. When association rules preclude homeowners from having athome sales, her team can pack up the house and rehome those treasures via off-site Pop Ups!
Most rewarding part of what you do? An estate sale is a very personal experience. I am invited into homes during emotionally charged periods in my clients’ lives. Regardless of the circumstances, be it downsizing, re-decorating, relocation, or the death of a loved one, selling treasures can evoke feelings of loss. Knowing how to hold space with grief is paramount and understanding how to ease the burden by executing a top-notch sale is incredibly rewarding. There’s nothing better than witnessing awe when our clients’ see their treasures prepped, staged, and ready for rehoming.
Greatest risk you’ve taken as a professional? I was climbing the ranks at a global marketing firm while managing an awardwinning health care communications campaign. I left it all behind to take a gap year to travel and blog about food.
Best advice for anyone starting out? If you spend time worrying about worst-case scenarios, give yourself permission to find joy while envisioning best outcomes too.
What did you dream of when you were younger? I wanted to be an undercover double agent with a marine biology “cover!”
Habit have you adopted that has had a significant positive change on your daily routine? Handsdown, practicing gratitude.
For more information, visit nestestatesales.com, follow @nest_estate_sales on Instagram, and Annie Adams, Nest Estate Sales on LinkedIn.
“If you are going to do something, do it right the first time.”
– MY DAD, HARRY
SCHIFF
CONCIERGE SERVICE
SUSAN BURKLIN of @properties Christies International Real Estate has earned a strong following as a broker and real estate agent on the North Shore. For 12 years, she has provided concierge service to her buyers and sellers throughout their real estate journey. She is a certified negotiation expert and a 2020 @properties Road to Rolex recipient. With more than 40 years of sales experience, it’s no wonder her listings sell in an average of seven days at 99.8 percent of list price. Her approach is hands-on, ensuring every one of her clients receives her undivided attention, endless energy, and a high level of personal care.
Most rewarding part of what you do? Happy clients.
How should women support other women? Listen, be kind, and celebrate each other’s accomplishments.
How do you inspire others? Collaborate, don’t compete.
Definition of success? For me it means that all the people I care about are happy; from my family to my clients.
Greatest risk you’ve taken as a professional? Starting a new career after 28 years as an industry leader in another field was a big risk but has been very rewarding. I am a firm believer that hard work pays off.
Best piece of advice for anyone starting out? Answer your phone.
What did you dream of doing when you were younger? Something in the fashion or design industry. Now I channel this interest into staging homes for my clients.
Traits you think great leaders possess? Courage, respect, confidence, humility, positivity, and integrity.
Powerful woman you admire the most? My female colleagues.
For more information, visit susanburklinresidential.com and follow @susanburklinresidential on Instagram.
“The natural healing force within each of us is the greatest force in getting well.”
– FRIEDRICH NIETZSCHE
A VIBRANT LIFE MISSION
R. STACIE J. STEPHENSON is a pioneer of functional and integrative medicine who has dedicated her life’s work to helping people create vibrant health from within to prevent chronic disease and ignite their glow. She currently serves as Vice-Chair of Gateway for Cancer Research and on the Board for the American Nutrition Association. She was a practicing physician for 15 years. Dr. Stephenson is a fierce and passionate philanthropist who was awarded the Unsung Hero Award in 2023 for her meaningful support of cancer research and patient-oriented treatment and care. Author of the bestselling books Glow: 90 Days to Create Your Vibrant Life from Within and Vibrant: A Groundbreaking Program to Get Energized, Own Your Health, and Glow, she has been featured across national media outlets such as Dr. Oz, Good Morning America, Extra, Parade, Women’s Health, and Prevention. Dr. Stephenson also serves as an advocate for children's health worldwide. She and her family divide their time between homes in the Midwest and Arizona.
Most rewarding part of what you do? It thrills me when someone reclaims or improves their health and becomes vibrant and glowing, based on something I recommended. I receive letters from people whose lives changed based on the advice in my books, and that makes all the work feel worthwhile.
How can you use your influence to inspire and uplift another woman today? Focusing on amplifying the strengths and talents of those around you helps other women overcome any narratives that would continue to keep them from achieving their very best professionally and personally!
How do you inspire others? Through my philanthropy and writing, I seek to demonstrate that we are all here to help each other. We all have resources to offer—skills, talents, time, empathy, and care.
For more information, visit drstaciestephenson.com and follow @drsjstephenson on Instagram.
“The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.”
– WALT DISNEY
UNMATCHED SUCCESS
JENA RADNAY graduated from Georgetown University with a degree in nursing but took her love of helping people in a different direction. She has built her North Shore real estate business by nurturing human connections and building personal relationships. Her love for real estate, houses, and marketing is what allows her to provide clients with the most advanced, out-of-the-box marketing and promotional techniques to effectively market and sell homes. Radnay’s savvy outlook and extensive experience has resulted in stellar reviews, making her consistently the North Shore’s top broker with more than $100 million in sales annually according to BrokerMetrics.
Most rewarding part of what you do?
I love when people are happy after their transaction. That, to me, says it all. Service is really hard to find in today’s world and that is what I am all about. I always go above and beyond the call of duty.
Definition of success?
When my kids and their friends want to be with me. Anne, a freshman at Tulane, and Jack, a sophomore at New Tier, have shown me the way as they are incredibly kind, sensitive to others, and fun. I handle my job carefully to ensure they are still getting everything they need from me while working in this very demanding, 24/7 industry.
Greatest risk you’ve taken as a professional?
Leaving a job I loved—advertising for McDonald's—and knowing that my passion was real estate. I took on that risk knowing there was no steady paycheck or maybe not a paycheck at all.
How do you inspire others?
With my positive energy. I always want to demonstrate that if you love what you do and you believe in yourself, good things will happen.
For more information, visit jenaradnay.com.
“Well done is better than well said.”
– BENJAMIN FRANKLIN
PAYING IT FORWARD
AMY DINKAR-PATEL leads the Commercial Distribution channels for TD Bank, driving growth and cultural innovation in Specialty Lending, Treasury Management, and Product and Payments covering Large Corporate to Small Business Banking clients. As Executive Vice President, she steers the bank’s organizational vision by increasing stakeholder engagement, deepening brand awareness, and strengthening relationships with clients. One of Patel’s passions is to elevate and advance women’s leadership and access to credit, networks, and collaboration. She serves on the IWF Board of Directors, The Chicago Club Membership Committee, and the Women’s Athletic Club Board of Directors. Patel is also a member of the Economic Club of Chicago.
Most rewarding part of what you do? The honor to lead a team of more than 500 colleagues and the ability to help one million commercial bank clients achieve their greatest success with the tailored advice and tools my team builds for this segment. I also continue to create rewarding and successful work environments for my team, which enable them to contribute $1 billion in revenue for the bank.
How should women support other women? Bring an extra chair with you for her to sit on at the table, and speak about her in rooms as if you are talking about yourself. What you do for her she will give back tenfold as she will have learned how to pay it forward.
How do you inspire others? I ask my teammates to write five of their best qualities as leaders and hold them accountable to it. I also always remind everyone that the NorthStar has many paths. Just stay on any one of those paths and success will have no choice but to prevail.
For more information, follow amy-dinkar-patel on LinkedIn.
“Learn as if you will live forever, live like you will die tomorrow.”
– MAHATMA GANDHI
TOP PERFORMER
PAIGE DOOLEY has called Winnetka home for more than 30 years and has a deep knowledge and passion for the North Shore communities, schools, organizations, and history. Consistently a top performer at Compass with over $1 billion in sales, Dooley has advised more than a thousand buyers and sellers, ranking No. 1 in transactions for New Trier towns (2007 to date*). Dooley was voted Winnetka/Northfield Chamber of Commerce Woman of the Year in 2023, is an active member of the Winnetka Historical Society, and has held positions as Chair of Winnetka Public School Foundation and Chair of Winnetka Children’s Fair.
Most rewarding part of what you do? Everyone seeks to find their place in the world, and I am grateful to navigate that most important life decision … finding a home. The importance of the search based on deep understanding of each person’s goals, the trust and intimacy shared, and the nuances of helping with design elements to make it “home” bring me great joy.
How should women support other women? Leading an all-woman team, I experience the gift of women supporting women every day both professionally and personally. I value the partnership we have in all aspects of our work and believe one of the best ways women can support each other is reflected in the Compass principle of collaborating without ego.
Best piece of advice for anyone starting out? It all begins with a strong work ethic and a can-do attitude. In real estate, you should become a local expert in an area by creating a consistent presence both on a personal level and with a digital footprint that provides relevant information and insights that reflect your expertise.
For more information, visit compass.com/agents/paige-dooley, follow @paigedooley.compass on Instagram and Paige Dooley, Broker – Compass on Facebook.
*(MRED Market Share Report 1/1/2007-6/26/2024)
“You will enrich your life immeasurably if you approach it with a sense of wonder and discovery, and always challenge yourself to try new things.”
– NATE BERKUS
APPRAISING SUCCESS A
LYSSA D. QUINLAN is CEO of Freeman's|Hindman Auctions and Appraisals, overseeing strategy and day-to-day operations and the firm’s ongoing expansion in locations, services, and expertise. She brings 25 years of diversified business experience, including leadership roles in private banking and wealth management, as well as expertise in fine art auction and appraisal services. As a sought-after charity auctioneer, Quinlan has helped to raise funds for The Salvation Army, Rush University Woman’s Board, and Lincoln Park Zoo, among many other organizations. She is an active member of Chief, the professional network for women executive leaders, as well as YPO and The Chicago Network. She supports arts and cultural organizations throughout Chicago, including the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Luminarts Cultural Foundation, and the Women’s Board of Ravinia. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from DePauw University.
Most rewarding part of what you do? Some of the most rewarding aspects of my job are leading such a talented team, meeting fascinating clients, and getting to tell their stories through their objects and collections at auction.
How do you inspire others? While IQ is important, I value emotional intelligence just as much and do my best to inspire others to lead with kindness and grace in their day-to-day life. Working synergistically with my colleagues at Freeman’s|Hindman, I strive to begin each day with a sense of self-awareness, motivation, and empathy for others in all my interactions.
Traits you think great leaders possess? To me, great executives lead with compassion and transparency, while providing direct and constructive feedback.
For more information, visit hindmanauctions.com, follow @alyssadquinlan on Instagram, and alyssaquinlan on LinkedIn.
“It’s easy to make a buck. It’s a lot tougher to make a difference.”
– TOM BROKAW
TRUE PARTNER
An early career in relocation consulting services, paired with an intimate knowledge of Chicago’s communities, lifestyle, and amenities, set the stage for success for ANNE HARDY. In her first year alone, this Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago agent worked with more than 60 inbound transferees on their purchases and leases. Committed to being a true partner in the process, she is a firm believer in effective communication—always available to answer questions, meet with clients, and ensure all parties feel informed and involved. Buyers appreciate her energy and thoroughness during the home search as she tailors options to fit their needs and budget. Sellers benefit from Hardy’s creative staging services that reflect current home design trends. She is known for pairing experience with a trademark positive attitude that has resulted in numerous customer service awards and sales recognition, consistently ranking within the top 2 percent of brokers nationwide. As a top certified relocation specialist, Hardy’s extensive market knowledge helps guide her clients through the stressful process of trying to find the best neighborhood for her clients to call home.
Most rewarding part of what you do? From finding a first-time homebuyer their dream home, assisting a family in relocating to the area, or helping my sellers prepare their home for the market, I love all of it. Seeing the impact of my work on people’s lives, witnessing their happiness, and knowing I played a key role in one of their major life decisions is incredibly fulfilling.
How should women support other women? Supporting other women is essential for creating a collaborative and empowering environment. By sharing our experiences and encouraging each other's growth, we become stronger together.
How do you inspire others? I work to maintain a positive attitude and approach challenges with optimism and resilience.
For more information, follow Anne Hardy Real Estate on Facebook and @annehardysellsrealestate on Instagram.
“The secret of getting ahead is getting started.”
– MARK TWAIN
CULINARY CURATOR
ELAINA VAZQUEZ is the owner and founder of Towne & Oak, a café and private event space. A classically French-trained chef, she previously worked at various restaurants in the country, including the 3 Michelin Star Joël Robuchon in Las Vegas. In 2008, Vazquez started her catering company, Boutique Bites, where she built a brand known for executing the finest experiences for clients and companies with the highest expectations. After 12 years and thousands of parties, Vazquez felt ready for a change, and began to concept Towne & Oak while on a trip to London. With such a large catering clientele already on the North Shore, she knew Winnetka would be the perfect location for her “Napa Valley meets Nantucket” vision. Vazquez says that Towne & Oak is where her background in fine dining meets her true appreciation for casual entertaining.
Most rewarding part of what you do? I was inspired to open my café in Winnetka because I wanted to be part of a vibrant neighborhood that values supporting local businesses. So many of our customers live in the area and come in daily. We’ve become a part of their routine, and that feels really good.
Definition of success? I have a mantra that I created for myself during the build-out of Towne & Oak—I run an organized, efficient, and profitable business that serves me in all aspects of my life. This sums up my idea of success perfectly.
What did you dream of doing when you were younger?
From age 5, I always said I wanted to be a chef. I loved food so much and come from a very large family, where cooking was at the center of every get-together. It’s funny that I followed through with my dream.
For more information, visit towneandoak.com and follow @towneandoak on Instagram.
Dress by Self-Portrait from Neiman Marcus
“Gratitude is the foundation for a good life.” –
INSIDER INSIGHT
MARY BAUBONIS credits her reputation, tenacity, and client dedication for the success she’s had selling residential real estate for more than 30 years. She also loves what she does and gives 100 percent to every client. “I pride myself on helping sellers maximize the value of their homes and ensuring that buyers find the perfect fit at the right price,” says Baubonis, an acclaimed @properties Christie’s International Real Estate broker in Winnetka.
Most rewarding part of what you do? Having lived in Wilmette for more than 20 years, I live and breathe local knowledge and expertise, which I look forward to sharing with clients to help them successfully achieve their real estate needs.
How should women support other women? We all benefit when we work together and help each other to succeed—cooperation makes us all better at what we do.
What does success mean to you? Accomplishing my goals, while having a positive impact on those around me.
Greatest risk you’ve taken as a professional? Last year, I decided to take a month away from my business to tackle the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage in Spain. I walked over 250 miles to honor the tradition of a country I loved living in during my college years. Taking a short time away from my business helped renew my energy and outlook, both professionally and personally. As a result, I am having one of my best production years ever.
For more information, visit atproperties.com/agents/4651/ mary-baubonis.
Dress by Sandro from Neiman Marus
“"I skate to where the puck is going to be, not to where it has been.”
– WAYNE GRETZKY
DRIVEN TO SUCCEED
GRETCHEN RAKOWICZ, President of Aura Healthcare and CEO of Aura Staffing Partners, has mastered the balancing act. As a single mom running two companies with a national reach, she thrives on networking. “Connecting people is my forte,” says Rakowicz, a Detroit native who started her first medical equipment company at age 24, followed by Aura Healthcare 13 years later. A graduate of Western Michigan University, she is mother to an 11-year-old son and splits her time between Winnetka and Union Pier, Michigan. When she’s not changing the health care world, she’s enjoying a game of pickleball or a good yoga session.
Most rewarding part of what you do? Having the ability to create something organically and watch our team grow and find success is definitely the most rewarding part of what I do.
How should women support women? In the business world you see men working together as a team to support and promote one another. This is very fragmented with women. We should push nationally to make this a priority as it is most definitely needed.
How do you inspire others? I believe my passion and tenacity for what I do shines through and is definitely contagious for my team. I focus on pushing them to be the best they can be with the message that nothing is out of reach and that there is always room for growth and improvement.
Definition of success? My definition of success is knowing that my company has an amazing reputation in the industry.
Greatest risk you have taken as a professional? In 2004, I quit my job with very little money in the bank and launched my second company on my own. Failure was not an option.
For more information, visit aurahc.com and aurastaff.com.
“Don’t spend time beating on a wall, hoping it will transform into a door.”
– COCO CHANEL
STRATEGIC APPROACH
MICHONE J. RIEWER, a Partner at Lake Bluff-based Strategic Divorce, loves helping people and solving problems. “Being a divorce attorney allows me to do this every day,” says Riewer, who holds a Juris Doctor from Georgia State University College of Law. “We help people through the hardest time of their lives.” She has been practicing for more than 25 years with experience in all areas of family and matrimonial law, including custody, parenting time, parental decision making, maintenance (formerly known as alimony), child support, financial issues, corporate valuations, pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements, post-decree actions, and civil litigation. Riewer takes pride in helping her clients create a plan to resolve their divorce issues as amicably as possible so they can move forward to a brighter future.
Most rewarding part of what you do? It is very rewarding to advocate for others and have a significant positive impact on their lives.
How should women support other women? Help other women when you are able. We are powerful, formidable, and amazing. We need to help each other. Together, we can create a strong, supportive community that uplifts and empowers every woman to thrive.
Best piece of advice for anyone starting out? Just do it. Progress requires both clarity and hard work. And don’t forget that you are networking the moment you set foot outside of your house, so be alert and prepared for the next opportunity to allow your business to help someone.
For more information, visit strategicdivorce.com.
“In life, we aren’t who other people say we are, we’re who we believe we are.”
– JAMIE KERN LIMA, CO-FOUNDER OF IT COSMETICS
CURATOR OF CONFIDENCE
Chicago-based celebrity makeup artist RABECCA ANN is a true curator of confidence. Inspired by her flaws at a young age, she became enamored with embracing her insecurities and turning them into her superpower. Rabecca began her career as a makeup artist 12 years ago with the iconic Bobbi Brown Cosmetics. Today, her brand, Rabecca Ann Artistry, provides on-location luxury makeup services to such celebrities as NFL champion Patrick Mahomes' mother, Randi Mahomes, and the NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell’s wife, Jane Skinner. Her work has also been seen on Seasons One and Two of the Netflix series, Indian Matchmaking. Rabecca’s timeless and natural aesthetic helps clients feel like the best version of themselves with a “NoMakeup, Makeup” look.
Most rewarding part of what you do? There's nothing more fulfilling than seeing the joy and self-assurance radiate from my clients when they look in the mirror and feel truly beautiful. It's a privilege to play a part in these transformative moments, knowing that I've helped someone feel more confident and empowered, something I once struggled with.
How should women support other women? Women should support each other by demonstrating kindness, sincerity, mentorship, and sharing experiences. We can empower each other by remembering the support we wished for earlier in our journeys.
How do you inspire others? Through my unwavering work ethic and by being unapologetically myself. I show that it's possible to be both compassionate and driven. My journey from working at a makeup counter to collaborating with high-profile clients, as well as my work being featured on Netflix and the 2024 Super Bowl stage demonstrates grit and determination. By sharing my story and maintaining a positive, authentic approach to life and work, I encourage others to pursue their passions and remain true to themselves.
For more information, visit rabeccaann.com.
Wearing a black chiffon dress from Sandro. Hair, makeup, and styling by Rabecca Ann.
by Rabecca Ann
“It’s not failure; it’s data.”
– DR. ELIZABETH LOMBARDO
TRANSFORMING LIVES
Known as America’s most-trusted celebrity psychologist, ELIZABETH LOMBARDO, Ph.D, is one of the most influential experts on stress—and the impact it has on peak performance, mental wellbeing, and a full, purpose-fueled life. Dr. E., as she’s known by clients and audiences around the world, combines the latest research in neuroscience with her 30 years of working with clients to help transform lives. As a sought-after keynote speaker, author, and coach, Dr. E helps people identify how “The Red Zone”—critical moments of high stress—is shaping their behaviors, decisions, health, and overall performance. A proven partner in peak performance, Dr. E has helped teams at Fortune 500 companies, including Coca-Cola and NBC Universal, unleash performance, profits, and untapped potential by showing them how to make sure stress gets the best from them—and not the best of them.
Most rewarding part of what you do? There are more medications and therapists out there than ever before. At the same time, more and more people are struggling with their mental wellbeing. I teach my clients the skills to help make their minds work for, rather than against, them using the latest in neuroscience research. The results? They all feel better and function at their best, whether it is an elite athlete, parent, or executive. And, because they are learning these skills, they can continue to use them to help themselves for the rest of their lives. It is incredibly rewarding to help people be the best versions of themselves, regardless of what is going on.
How should women support other women? Look for ways to support, encourage and assist others, while at the same time making sure you are taking care of your own needs. The happier and healthier you are, the better you can elevate others.
For more information, visit elizabethlombardo.com, youtube.com/user/erlombardo on YouTube, @drelombardo on Instagram, and drelizabethlombardo on LinkedIn.
Hair & Makeup
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”
– MAHATMA GANDHI
YOUR BREAST FRIEND
North Shore native ARIANA ROSE YUDKOWSKY, founder of Breast Friends Concierge Nursing, says the work she does is personal. “Witnessing my mother and two sisters-in-law undergo mastectomies and struggle to find adequate post-surgical care highlighted a significant gap in support for women in my community,” explains Yudkowsky, who graduated from Binghamton University in 2014 and has devoted the last 10 years working as a registered nurse specializing in women’s health. “This inspired me to dedicate myself to helping women with breast cancer navigate their recovery journeys.” One of the most rewarding things about her career is helping to support and empower women. “It is incredible that I can make such a positive impact, especially given my personal connection to breast cancer,” she says. “Helping women in the community that I grew up in is truly a meaningful way to give back and make a difference.”
How should women support other women? We should lift each other up by celebrating each other’s success and accomplishments. Supporting other women involves showing kindness, compassion, and solidarity.
How do you inspire others? I believe I inspire others through my unwavering dedication to supporting women with breast cancer. By leading with example, I demonstrate the power of resilience and optimism, showing the challenges that can be overcome with determination and a positive outlook.
Traits you think great leaders possess? Great leaders possess a blend of key traits, including integrity, vision, and empathy. They communicate effectively, inspire and motivate others, and demonstrate resilience in the face of challenges.
Habit you’ve adopted that has had a significant positive change on your daily routine? Prioritizing my mental and physical health by going outside every single day.
For more information, visit bfcnursing.com, follow @TheBoobNurse on Instagram and TikTok, and Breast Friends Concierge Nursing on Facebook.
“Where there’s a will, there’s a way.”
– ALBERT EINSTEIN
SAVVY ENTREPRENEUR
North Shore native and @properties Christie’s International Real Estate Realtor BROOKE BAKALAR SLOANE’s savvy negotiation skills and 24/7 dedication to her clients have earned her a coveted spot in the top 5 percent. She’s always willing to go the extra mile, representing her clients as if she’s representing herself or a family member. In fact, a client once joked that Sloane was not only her Realtor but also her life coach “because I helped her with everything from designing her home to recommending local babysitters.” Thanks to her extensive, referral-generated network, she has access to off-market listings and is able to list her clients’ homes privately, if requested. Sloane’s market expertise and strong work ethic make her the ideal partner for anyone looking to buy, sell, or rent real estate. A proud mom of twin daughters, Brooke has a real estate development company with her husband called Sloane Homes, where she is the Designer behind the development, choosing all finishes for each home. Most recently, Sloane and her husband will be opening an upscale private pickleball and golf club in Highland Park called DINX Social Club. In her very limited spare time, she loves to play tennis and pickleball.
Most rewarding part of what you do? Helping clients achieve significant milestones, such as buying their first home or their dream home or selling a property for a record-breaking price.
Pivotal moment in your career? Achieving @properties highest level of recognition, The Timeless Award, in 2023.
Definition of success? Leaving people better off than when they first met me.
Traits you think great leaders possess? Integrity, discretion, openmindedness, humor, vision, passion, and charisma.
For more information, visit atproperties.com/agents/3669/ brooke-bakalar-sloane and follow @brookesloane_realestate on Instagram and Brooke Bakalar Sloane-North Shore Realtor on Facebook.
“If you doubt your power, you give power to your doubts.”
– DIANE VON FURSTENBERG
AHEAD OF THE CURVE
TARYN GLUSKIN's creative mind and entrepreneurial spirit has always put her ahead of the curve. She spent 15 years building the experience that brings her to where she is today—founder of TGBE|Taryn Gluskin Brand Experience. “I worked in nonprofit and corporate communications as a community outreach and brand experience expert,” explains Gluskin, who recently oversaw C-suite communications for a $6 billion logistics company. “Prior to that, I was responsible for corporate communications and client events for Mesirow Financial.” While very successful in these endeavors, Gluskin was inspired to expand her portfolio of clients and make an even bigger cultural impact. Through TGBE, she specializes in strategic brand positioning and client growth through world-class events—utilizing her innate ability to see the big picture. “Our experiences shape who we are. How you think about your business should be no different,” explains Gluskin, proud mother of two daughters who is also a member of The Jewish Federations of North America’s Leadership Cabinet. “If done well, through a cultivated approach, bringing your mission to the marketplace will naturally extend to a stakeholder and client pipeline.”
Most rewarding part of what you do? Seeing the tangible impact I can make on a client's brand, creating impactful experiences that effectively move the needle.
How should women support other women? All boats rise together. I’m in my element working with women-led organizations and businesses. When my head hits the pillow at night, I find myself firing on all cylinders, thinking of one more connection I can make for them or a new event I want to pitch to them.
How do you inspire others? I lead with creativity, work hard to demonstrate dedication, and show that challenges can be turned into opportunities.
For more information, visit tg-be. com and follow @taryn_tgbe on Instagram.
“Success isn’t about how much money you make; it’s about the difference you make in people’s lives.”
– MICHELLE OBAMA
GENERATIONS OF EXCELLENCE
Idlewood Electric is a third-generation, woman-owned lighting business that has been serving the Chicago area since 1958. Led by CEO and President BARBARA LANSING and her daughter, Vice President JESSICA LANSING COHEN, this premier lighting showroom and electrical supply distributor is synonymous with superior customer service and premium quality products. Barbara is the second generation to take the helm and she is thrilled to be working alongside daughters Jessica and Rachel Lansing Sotoloff who entered the business a decade ago together. Jessica oversees the day-to-day operations of the lighting division, while Rachel leads the marketing team and focuses on designer relations.
Definition of success?
Jessica: Success is based on the personal relationships we develop and foster with our customers on a daily basis.
Barbara: Idlewood’s growing legacy is a direct result of those relationships as we’re on the horizon of 70 years in business. My father, who served in the Air Force during WWII, had a dream to one day open his own electrical supply store, marry, and have a family—the American Dream. Almost seven decades later, his dream is alive more than ever as a flourishing third-generation company with three Chicago area locations and over 100 employees.
Most rewarding part of what you do?
Barbara: I have the privilege of working closely with employees, customers, and manufacturers, many of whom I’ve worked with for many years. They’ve become my extended family. Idlewood has always been a family business and I like to keep that sentiment. We aren’t a large corporation, but rather a large family that takes care of one another.
Jessica: It’s carrying on the legacy my grandparents began all those years ago. When you say your lighting is from Idlewood, the name recognition spans generations.
For more information, visit idlewoodelectric.com and follow @idlewoodelectric on Instagram.
Barbara Lansing, Jessica Lansing Cohen
“You can’t be the kid standing at the top of the waterslide overthinking it. You have to go down the chute.”
– TINA FEY
BATMAN & ROBIN
MEG MCGUINNESS and KATIE HAUSER of the Meg + Katie Group at Compass joined forces more than six years ago with a vision to make their real estate journey a bit easier. Little did they know, their partnership would skyrocket their business, consistently ranking them among the top agents on the North Shore and earning them spots in RealTrends Verified and the Compass Legends Society. They genuinely enjoy every aspect of the real estate process—from staging to selling to touring. What really warms their hearts is the fact that about 90 percent of their business comes from repeat and referral clients. This duo’s down-to-earth approach and unwavering dedication make them the trusted choice for your real estate needs.
How should women support each other? By showing up and standing together. It's important to remember that one woman's success doesn't diminish another's. Our empathy is a super-power, particularly in the emotionally charged world of real estate, and we should harness it to uplift and empower one another.
Best piece of advice for anyone starting out? Show up! Both of our first deals were because we were in the office, back in the days of walk-ins. Being present and available is crucial. Arriving early, even just five minutes, shows respect and dedication. Additionally, finding a great mentor is invaluable.
Greatest risk you’ve ever taken as a professional? Our biggest professional leap was when we joined Compass as a partnership. While we were seasoned in real estate, forming a team was uncharted territory for us. It was a risk, but one that has paid off tremendously. Our collaborative approach, devoid of ego, has been instrumental in our success. We consider ourselves incredibly lucky for the partnership and this journey.
For more information, visit compass.com/agents/meg+katie-group.
Katie Hauser
Meg McGuinness
“We make a living by what we get but we make a life by what we give.”
– WINSTON CHURCHILL
LOCAL REAL ESTATE EXPERTS
LAUREN RABIN and ELISE DAYAN make up the Rabin Dayan team at the Wexler Gault Group with @properties Christie’s International Real Estate in Highland Park. Their unparalleled knowledge of North Shore neighborhoods, schools, and amenities make them the perfect choice to help you buy or sell your home. With their expertise, they make the buying and selling process easy and stress free.
Rabin has more than 30 years of sales experience and raised her two children in her hometown of Highland Park. Dayan has a background in creative marketing and design and also raised her three daughters in Highland Park. They are true local experts that love what they do, and it shows.
Most rewarding part of what you do? The most rewarding aspect of our work is the profound impact we have on people during pivotal moments in their lives. Whether guiding clients through successful property transactions or providing support during challenging transitions, we play a crucial role in shaping their real estate journey.
How should women support other women? By fostering a culture of support, collaboration, guidance, and empowerment, women in real estate can help each other thrive and succeed in their careers.
How do you inspire others? We inspire others by demonstrating professionalism, integrity, and strong work ethics. We want our clients, friends, coworkers and family to know they can always count on us.
Greatest risk you’ve taken as a professional? One of the greatest risks we’ve taken in our profession was transitioning into real estate as second careers. Despite the initial challenges, this leap of faith has been incredibly rewarding, allowing us to apply our life experiences and skills to help our clients navigate their real estate journeys with empathy and expertise.
For more information, follow @rabindayan on Instagram and Facebook.
Elise Dayan (left) in suit by Cinq à Sept; Lauren Rabin (right) in dress by Balmain, all from Neiman Marcus.
“Change the way you look at things and the things you look at change.”
– WAYNE W. DEYER
CHAMPION OF CHANGE
According to personal coach and LCPC JENNY STEVENS, change is her middle name. “Having personally gone through my own share of difficult life changes— including attending nine schools in 12 years while having (just a few) learning disabilities, changing careers in my 20s, divorce, the loss of a parent at a young age, and surviving cancer—I have gained tremendous insight into how change affects your life and how to keep moving forward,” she says. “My calling is to help people fully realize and design a life they love, despite life’s many challenges.” Her solution is to stop what you’re doing (or not doing) and take what isn’t working out of the bag. “Repack it and get on the road towards the life you want,” adds Stevens. As a professional clinical counselor, and now personal and professional coach, she brings an honest, approachable, “no BS style” to her interactions with clients. “I care deeply about helping others and supporting my clients to make change or to adapt to change when they don’t feel they have the road map to make it happen,” she says.
Most rewarding part of what you do? Supporting people going through a major change, helping them face the fear within the change, and then creating a plan and providing the support they need to make that change positively.
How should women support other women? There is enough room at the table for all of us. Be supportive of other successful women and surround yourself with them.
Habit you've adopted that has had a significant positive change on your daily routine? Mastering my thoughts so they are ones of abundance, joy, and optimism.
For more information, visit jennystevenscoach.com and follow @jennysytevens_coach on Instagram.
“You are more powerful then you know; you are beautiful just as you are.”
– MELISSA ETHERIDGE
SET THE VIBE
ARIANNA ROZEN’S journey to owning one of the hottest entertainment and events companies in Chicago began at a very young age. Rozen, who currently owns Vibe Entertainment, was a competitive dancer at age 6 and began her career at age 15. Two years later, her talent quickly led her to become one of Chicago’s most popular female MCs. She has performed with such artists as Chance the Rapper, Selena Gomez, and Snoop Dogg and has hosted multiple events for crowds spanning up to 15,000 attendees across the U.S.—including working as an announcer at the recent Democratic National Convention in Chicago. With more than 17 years of industry expertise, this self-described “lady boss” is ready to host your next party.
Most rewarding part of what you do? The most rewarding part of being a special events MC and business owner is the joy of creating memorable experiences for people from start to finish. I love seeing guests engage, laugh, and connect with one another throughout all of my events. When I hear feedback from attendees about how much fun they had at an event, or how I helped set the right vibe for their event, it reminds me of the impact I truly have on others.
How do you inspire others? As an event MC, I inspire others by leading with enthusiasm and authenticity. In my role as an MC, I set the tone for the event by being energetic, engaging, and encouraging guests to participate and connect with each other. As a business owner, I strive to empower my team by fostering a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and heard. I lead by example, demonstrating a strong work ethic and a positive attitude.
For more information, visit partywithvibe.com and follow @ariwithvibe and @partywithvibe on Instagram.
“The waves keep coming so learn to surf.”
– JACK KORNFIELD
EDUCATION MATTERS
MONICA MUCIACCIA CHOVANEC practiced as a certified school psychologist in Illinois for 12 years prior to starting MMC Educational Consulting and Staffing LLC (MMC Staffing). Founded in 2022, the company focuses on filling special education needs. “We identify what schools have needs for educators in the greater Chicago area and fill the vacancies to meet the needs of children,” explains Chovanec. Over the span of 18 months, MMC Staffing has grown from just Chovanec to more than 30 team members. The company also recently partnered with the national educational staffing agency, Stepping Stones Group, to expand services across the country. Chovanec is a wife and mother of two with a 4-year old son and 1-year-old daughter who she loves deeply.
Most rewarding part of what you do? In the end, it is all about the kids. The more educators that we can motivate to accept positions, the better the outcome for our children and community. We do it for them!
How should women support other women? The less we judge others the better.
How do you inspire others? I have always found speaking honestly and concisely is motivational. Having confidence in what you preach about internally is also helpful. If you believe in what you do and what you want others to believe, it’s noticeable.
Definition of success? For me personally I would say when you and your loved ones are healthy, happy, and financially stable, this is pure happiness and success. I can honestly say I feel pretty successful in my personal and professional life. I am one lucky woman.
Powerful woman you admire the most? My mom! She is the most kind, light-hearted, honest, dedicated, and caring person I have ever crossed paths with. She has made me who I am today.
For more information, visit mmceducationalconsulting.com and follow MMCEducationalConsulting on Facebook.
“Great innovation only happens when you aren’t afraid to do things differently.”
– GEORG CANTOR
BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS
Athird-generation realtor and designer with an impressive resume, GRACE KAAGE brings a background in real estate brokerage and interior design with credentials spanning years in residential real estate and luxury development. As Managing Director for Compass in Illinois and Indiana, Kaage helped lead strategy and growth for some of the largest real estate markets in the Midwest before opening Kaage Homes with her husband in 2023. They had a nearly instantaneous waitlist as the first interior design firm to offer an integrated suite of real estate services—breaking down barriers between real estate and design. As part of this vision, she developed new systems and leveraged new technology that allows Kaage Homes to market, build, and design property in 3D so that clients can customize their future home even before it closes. This innovative technology benefits sellers as well. Instead of trying to guess what a prospective buyer might want in a renovation and making big investments before putting a property on the market, sellers can present their homes as-is and let the next owner customize to their taste.
Most rewarding part of what you do? Simplifying the real estate experience but driving clarity for our clients. It’s the most amazing feeling when you get to show your clients their dream home in full-scale 3D models while there’s still time to make changes.
How should women support other women? Pull each other up as we go! I am so grateful for the amazing women who supported and mentored me throughout my career and I wouldn’t be here without them.
Definition of success? One day, I want my children to grow up and say, “Those are my parents!” and be so proud of us for building a life they love with people who are kind and compassionate.
For more information, visit kaagehomes.com and follow @gracekaage on Instagram.
“Don't be intimidated by what you don’t know. That can be your greatest strength and ensure that you do things differently from everyone else.”
– SARA BLAKELY, FOUNDER OF SPANX
DRESSING THE SHORE
A1994 graduate of Northwestern University, NICOLE CARRABINE put her bachelor’s degree in Social Policy to work in political fundraising before opening Twiss and Altounian Consulting— raising money and planning events for political candidates and nonprofit organizations. In 2002, she joined her family's construction firm, Altounian Construction, as a project coordinator and property manager. While Carrabine loved working with her family for more than 20 years, she decided to pursue her dream of owning a women's boutique, purchasing The Lake Forest Shop in 2023. Nicole is a sustaining member of the Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital Women's Board and the Lake Forest Garden Club.
Most rewarding part of what you do? Helping a woman find the perfect special event outfit or everyday pieces that she feels confident, authentic, and beautiful in is the most rewarding element of what I do. When a woman feels confident, it brings positive energy to her interactions and experiences
How should women support other women? Women should hire and mentor other women, encouraging friends and coworkers to believe in themselves and take risks. Most importantly, women should have each other’s backs and support each other professional and personally.
How do you inspire others? Ultimately, one never knows how he or she may inspire others, but I hope it would be my belief in showing kindness to everyone, and in finding time each day to do something you love.
Best piece of advice? Believe in yourself, challenge yourself, and be willing to take risks.
What did you dream of doing when you were younger? I dreamed of owning a women’s clothing store!
For more information, visit thelakeforestshop.com and follow @thelakeforestshop on Instagram.
“We are stars wrapped in skin—the light you are seeking has always been within.” – RUMI
GIVING VOICE
Wearing your heart on your sleeve can be seen as weakness, but as a voiceover artist, TV/Film actress, wife, and mother of two, KARIN ANGLIN considers it her superpower. “It’s why I can easily access the dig-deep emotions or out-on-a-limb creative choices that compelling characters and narrators deserve,” explains Anglin, who has more than 28 television and film credits to her name. Most notably, Anglin starred as Alison in two seasons of Showtime’s Work in Progress and last year was a recurring guest star in Season 8 of NBC’s Chicago Med. In addition to her television appearances, Anglin’s voiceover experience ranges from being a TV promo voice for MLB Network, Syfy, and Comedy Central to voicing the “My Drunk Boyfriend” skit for Saturday Night Live, animated characters for Netflix’s Inside Job, and hundreds of TV and radio commercials and political ads. Her talents can also serve local charity benefits and live auctions, as well as elevate corporations’ in-house marketing and advertising by lending her voice to their websites, phone systems, and branding videos. Whatever the project, Anglin’s goal is to “shine my light so that the creative collaborations I’m a part of feel like a win for everyone on board.”
Most rewarding part of what you do? To see a creative piece that I am a part of transform, inspire, or educate an audience to gain a new perspective on themselves and/or the world.
Definition of success? Resilience. I value staying power and that requires navigating unexpected changes or challenges with flexibility, curiosity, and creativity.
How do you inspire others? I try to inspire others by being a reminder that we can turn challenges into triumphs by choosing our focus intentionally. Choosing an empowering mindset is key.
For more information, visit karinanglin.com, follow @karinanglin on Instagram, Karin Anglin on LinkedIn, and Karin Anglin Clements on Facebook.
Top by Dolce & Gabbana, pant by A.L.C., both from Neiman Marcus
“All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.”
– WALT DISNEY
MISSION TO SERVE
othing can stop BRITTANY RISTUCCI WARNER, BAS, MBA, BSN, R.N., Chief Operating Officer and Operating Room Director for Warner Aesthetic & Reconstructive Institute and board member for The Volunteer Center of Northeast Chicago, from achieving her goals of helping those around her. This busy professional guides the institute’s financial and operational processes, mitigating financial risks and executing growth plans. With extensive education and multiple degrees, Warner provides comprehensive nursing support throughout the surgical journey—providing the most effective, safe, and personalized care. She also gives back as a mission volunteer for Face The Future, providing life-saving facial reconstructive surgeries for congenital and trauma related deformities in Kathmandu, Nepal.
Most rewarding part of what you do? Being a part of a patient’s surgical transformation is incredible. There is a huge emotional and psychological component of facial reconstruction, especially as it relates to a patient’s self-confidence. There has always been a stigma related to the phrase “plastic surgery” without regard to how positively these procedures can improve and, in some cases, save someone’s life. That is nothing short of a miracle, and I get to do that every day!
Best piece of advice for anyone starting out? Be courageous because you will fail. Anyone who has changed the world, achieved greatness, and accomplished significant success, has failed at some point.
Traits you think great leaders possess? Steve Jobs once said, “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.” I have always been relentless in my pursuit to be better and do better. I try to find comfort in being uncomfortable—it’s the only path to personal growth.
For more information, visit warnerinstitute.com, follow @drwarnerinstitute on Instagram, @jeremywarnerinstitute on Facebook, and Warner Aesthetic & Reconstructive Institute on LinkedIn.
“Never lose hope, dear heart. Miracles swell in the invisible.”
– RUMI
LEADING BY EXAMPLE
A
DRIANNA STASIUK is a Partner and Investment Advisor at Aaron Wealth Advisors, a Chicago-based independent family office. With more than 12 years of experience in the wealth management and private banking industry, Stasiuk is a trusted contact and advisor to successful individuals and families—providing them with a full suite of wealth management solutions. A native of Chicago’s northwest suburbs, she was an All-American volleyball player at the University of Notre Dame, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting followed by an MBA at the Mendoza College of Business. Today, Stasiuk lives in Chicago and enjoys fitness, sports, and spending time with her dog and family.
Most rewarding part of what you do?
I work hard to earn the role of trusted advisor to a family, and it feels rewarding when my efforts are recognized. I also appreciate the relationships I’ve built with clients. This is a very personal business, so you get to know your clients very well over time. I recently had a small health emergency that caused me to be out of the office and the texts and calls from my clients checking in to see how I was doing were meaningful to me.
How should women support other women?
By challenging each other. The real disservice comes when women are afraid to give each other honest and real feedback, which holds people back from furthering their careers. We all need honest feedback to develop professionally.
How do you inspire others?
I strive to lead by example. When I was a team captain of Notre Dame’s women’s volleyball team, my greatest leadership strength was my hard work ethic and discipline. My goal is to make sure the same work ethic and client-centric focus shines through in my professional work.
For more information, visit aaronwealth.com.
Aaron Wealth Advisors LLC is registered as an investment adviser with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Aaron Wealth Advisors LLC only transacts business in states where it is properly registered or is excluded or exempted from registration requirements. SEC registration does not constitute an endorsement of the firm by the Commission, nor does it indicate that the adviser has attained a particular level of skill or ability.
“There is no force more powerful than a woman determined to rise.”
– W.E.B DU BOIS
INVESTED IN YOU
JENN BARRY is Chief Administrative Officer at Aaron Wealth Advisors, where she works directly with the CEO and President to manage the daily operations, inputs for strategic planning, and drive talent management and cultural initiatives. Prior to her current role, Barry was an investment advisor providing counsel to successful entrepreneurs, executives, and financial professionals on all aspects of their personal wealth. She started her career in investment banking and then spent almost 25 years in institutional equity sales at Citi, where she served as a trusted resource to professional investors working in the top echelons of the country’s preeminent asset management firms. Barry graduated from the University of Michigan in Economics (1994). In 2000, she became a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) and obtained her CFP® certification in 2023. Today, Barry lives in Chicago’s northern suburbs with her husband and three children.
Most rewarding part of what you do? Working with our team members to give them the tools and opportunities to help them reach their fullest potential. I thrive on seeing others succeed and achieve their goals!
How should women support other women? Women should not only look for opportunities to mentor other women, but to really be an advocate for them. Throughout my career, I have focused on building strong relationships with other women and making the effort to find ways to lift them up. I derive so much joy from seeing others, particularly women, succeed. I believe life is a journey, not a competition.
How do you inspire others? Over the last several years, I’ve lost a considerable amount of weight and completely changed my physical self. This health and wellness journey catalyzed my career change and gave me more control and balance. I try to inspire others and lead by example to show them that anything is possible.
For more information, visit aaronwealth.com and follow linkedin.com/ in/jenn-barry.
Aaron Wealth Advisors LLC is registered as an investment adviser with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Aaron Wealth Advisors LLC only transacts business in states where it is properly registered or is excluded or exempted from registration requirements. SEC registration does not constitute an endorsement of the firm by the Commission, nor does it indicate that the adviser has attained a particular level of skill or ability.
“Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.”
– RALPH WALDO EMERSON
HEALTH CARE THOUGHT LEADER
With the belief that health coaches are key to combating chronic disease, DR. SANDRA SCHEINBAUM’S Functional Medicine Coaching Academy (FMCA) trains people to become health coaches, and then helps practitioners and businesses hire them. As founder and CEO of FMCA, she is a leader in the field of health coaching education. An educator, clinical psychologist, author, and public speaker for more than 40 years, she’s on a mission to grow the health coaching profession so that millions of people can get the support they need to lead healthier lives.
Most rewarding part of what you do? The most rewarding aspect of my work involves spreading the word about the benefits of health coaching for reducing the incidence of chronic diseases driven by lifestyle. Whether speaking on stages, being interviewed on podcasts, or as host of the Health Coach Talk podcast, I’m creating awareness about functional medicine health coaching—a movement that’s transforming health care.
How do you inspire others? I’ve been told that I inspire others by serving as a role model for what’s possible as we age. Thanks to the latest research in functional medicine, frailty and cognitive decline are not inevitable. At 74, my routine includes daily handstands and 100 pushups, ballet classes, Pilates, yoga, and weight training. I encourage older women to stay curious and consider what’s possible, including getting physically and mentally stronger, and even launching new careers.
Greatest risk you’ve taken as a professional? In 2015, I took a huge risk by leaving a thriving career as a clinical psychologist to establish a global online school to train health coaches. At age 65, a time when most people think about retiring, I chose to work harder because I had a bold mission—training thousands of health coaches.
For more information, visit functionalmedicinecoaching.org, follow @drsandi on Instagram, and sandra-scheinbaumph-d-17ba678 on LinkedIn.
"We are far more alike than we are unalike."
– MAYA ANGELOU
ODE TO JOY
CLOTHILDE EWING is a seasoned communicator with a background in journalism at CBS News, producing for The Oprah Winfrey Show, working in politics, and serving as VP of Strategic Communications at The Chicago Community Trust. She was inspired to start writing children's books after reading a New York Times opinion piece by Denene Millner, titled “Black Kids Don't Want to Read About Harriet Tubman All the Time.” Her goal is for people to see more children of color in books that are not defined primarily by race or struggle but by belonging and joy. A Syracuse University graduate, she lives in Chicago with her husband and two children.
Greatest risk you've taken as a professional? Hands down, saying out loud that I planned to write children's books. Becoming an author meant putting myself out there in a way I had not before, making me feel extremely vulnerable. Early on, I planned to become a reporter, but when I found I could be a producer instead, I was sold. I have played a behind-the-scenes role most of my career, so being out front was something very new to me.
Most rewarding part of what you do? When I began writing, I didn't realize how nerve-wracking yet rewarding it would be to read my own stories to kids. Young children are brutally honest, but connecting with them feels like magic. It is one of the things that I really appreciated when I visited Reading Power, a one-to-one literacy program, and read to their students. The children were visibly thrilled to enter a room filled with books and adults who were eager to support them on their reading journey. Despite nerves, I always leave school visits energized and more hopeful about the world than when I entered.
For more information, visit clothildeewing.com. Readers can purchase Stella and Roger Can’t Wait To Grow Up and Ewing’s other books at their local independent bookstore and online. To learn more about Reading Power, an organization Ewing supports, visit readingpowerinc.org.
Dress by Lafayette 146 from Neiman Marcus
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”
– ELEANOR ROOSEVELT
PORTRAIT OF AN ARTIST
APRIL GRAVES is an award-winning photographic portrait artist, storyteller, and inspirational speaker who uses her talents for good. In addition to creating artistic portraits through Light Drawn Studios, she has championed such philanthropic projects as Beautiful Things with Wings, an ongoing initiative that has raised more than $750,000 for WINGS Program Inc., which supports survivors of domestic violence. An artist and entrepreneur at heart, she incorporated her first business at age 13 and has been self-employed since the age of 23. “I began my career as a children’s fashion designer, selling my collection all over the world,” explains Graves, a wife and mother of two. “Eventually I turned to photography and oil painting as my mediums of choice.” With a huge philanthropic heart and more than 20 years of experience as a professional photographer, she is truly an expert at her craft—sharing her gifts of intertwining art and emotion, all while giving back to her community. “I built my portrait studio upon a foundation of charitable giving,” says Graves, adding that she has raised more than $1 million for local charities.
Most rewarding part of what you do? Being able to create portraits that remind children that they are beautiful, magical, and loved. Empowering them to see their true potential and giving them a constant reminder that they are worthy.
How do you inspire others? My hope is that I inspire others to see the best versions of themselves and to be the creator of their own story. My intention is to inspire kindness and generosity, to be a beacon of positivity. Through my speaking and mentoring, I inspire people to pursue excellence and to write their own narratives—to reframe the past and to create from a blank canvas full of possibilities.
For more information, visit lightdrawnstudios.com, follow Light Drawn Studios-Beautiful Things with Wings on Facebook, and @lightdrawnstudios on Instagram.
“Elegance is when the inside is as beautiful as the outside.”
– COCO CHANEL
TEAM MANGEL
The North Shore real estate powerhouse that is KATHRYN BADER MANGEL and KELLY O’CONNELL MANGEL (aka Team Mangel) is one that was decades in the making. Kathryn and Kelly first met on the Wilmette All-Star softball team as grade schoolers. Today they combine those same winning attitudes and an extensive real estate network to provide solutionsoriented expertise. The duo is committed to the highest levels of customer service and deliver sales results to their clients. As consultants, advisors, and real estate brokers with @ properties Christies International Real Estate, they are as unstoppable today as they were all those years ago.
Most rewarding part of what you do? We love our clients' happily ever after! We are so grateful to work with so many amazing clients who refer us to their family, friends, and neighbors. It is immensely gratifying to right-size and transition clients successfully. Not only can we help them purchase a home locally, but we also assist with their real estate portfolio, including vacation homes, children’s properties, and investment real estate— we’re global!
How should women support other women? Behind every strong woman is an even stronger woman. We grew up with working mothers who were our role models and continue to be the wind beneath our wings.
How do you inspire others? We like to lead by example and enjoy giving back to our community. Our philanthropic endeavors have included chairing events and committees at the Chicago Botanic Garden, Kohl Children’s Museum, Rush University Medical Center, Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and local schools/preschools.
Definition of success? We enjoy the success of our clients when we find them their perfect home or enable them to move to dream destinations. We are honored to work with many special clients who become our dear friends.
For more information, visit teammangel.com.
Kathryn Bader Mangel
Kelly O'Connell Mangel
“Things may come to those who wait, but only the things left by those who hustle.”
– ABRAHAM LINCOLN
THE CLOSER
With 30 years of experience in both commercial and luxury residential real estate, LORI NIEMAN brings a very different strategic approach to the real estate process. “Negotiating skills and creativity are imperative in this business,” explains Nieman, a broker with @properties Christies International Real Estate and the John R.Wood Christies office in Naples, Florida. “My years of negotiating on behalf of Fortune 100 companies, along with my home staging and out-of-the-box approach on the residential side, sets me apart with the skill set to make sure real estate transactions get across the finish line. I am fortunate to help clients with their real estate needs in two markets—the North Shore and the Naples area.”
Most rewarding part of what you do? When my clients work with me and then tell me that I have a client for life, it is very rewarding. The home selling and buying process is an emotional one, so helping them attain a sales price they never imagined, through creativity, visibility, and staging—or uncovering a private listing that is their perfect fit—makes me so happy. My clients always seem to become close friends and also my biggest ambassadors, and for that I am forever grateful.
How should women support other women? When women support each other in business, it leads to mutual success. In highly competitive fields, whether sports or real estate, this teamwork is even more important and there is no time or tolerance for anything otherwise. When we collaborate and share knowledge and advice, everyone benefits, including our clients.
Best piece of advice for anyone starting out? Hustle. Real estate is a very competitive industry. Follow through with what you say you’re going to do and always put your clients’ interests before your own. Invest your time and give yourself the grace to make mistakes and learn from others.
For more information, visit linktr.ee/loriniemanrealestate, follow @loriniemanrealestate on Instagram, Lori Nieman Real Estate on Facebook, and Lori Nieman on LinkedIn.
Top and pant by Dries Van Noten; blazer by Plan C from Blake Chicago.
“The important thing is not being afraid to take a chance. Remember, the greatest failure is to not try.”
– DEBBIE FIELDS, FOUNDER MRS. FIELDS COOKIES
LET IT RAIN
SHERI HAMMONDS says she’s had three careers, but the Vinrella brand of fashionable rain accessories she founded in 2011 is her favorite. “Our proprietary, ‘design forward’ bottle umbrella is what started it all,” says Hammonds, adding that her daughter serves as Art Director for the brand and husband is co-owner. “The functional idea of placing the wet umbrella in the bottle so you and your belongings stay dry has appealed to consumers and store owners since the beginning.” Today, Vinrella is a bright and colorful collection of fashion accessories for women of all ages. Its brand of products is sold in more than 3,000 stores in U.S., Canada, and Europe and is sold on the Today Show “Steals N’ Deals” twice each year.
Most rewarding part of what you do? Having a clear vision for our brand and the freedom to make my own decisions is one of the best parts of being a business owner.
How should women support other women? I had a few key mentors when I started my business and now I’m giving back by offering consulting services to other entrepreneurs. It’s wonderful to share my knowledge in sourcing overseas, production, distribution, sales, and brand development. Entrepreneurs can reach out to me for personalized guidance and strategies designed for success at info@vinrella.com.
How do you inspire others? I hope I inspire my children to do whatever they want as long as they work hard and persevere. They’ve seen me grow a business through a lot of difficult days and hopefully they realize there’s no easy road.
Definition of success? Carving out the life you want for yourself. Whatever that may be, as long as it aligns with your goals, dreams, and lifestyle.
For more information, visit vinrella.com and follow @vinrella on Instagram and Facebook.
“Behind every great woman … is another great woman.”
– KATE HODGES
BOUTIQUE EXPERIENCE
With nearly 20 years of experience in the real estate business, ANNIE FLANAGAN and MADDIE FLANAGAN, brokers with The Flanagan Group and @properties Christie’s International Real Estate, know the ins and outs of the Chicago and North Shore real estate markets. This dynamic duo has created a highly personalized, fullservice boutique experience where their clients' specific needs and interests are at the heart of everything they do—all while paying attention to every detail.
Most rewarding part of what you do?
Maddie: I love connecting with people. Buying a home is such an emotional process, so we really get to know our clients on a fairly intimate level. It’s special to be a part of such a milestone in someone’s life.
Annie: Even though it sounds cliche, your home is your biggest asset and where you spend 90 percent of your time. Helping people find their dream home and a place they are excited about is extremely rewarding.
Best piece of advice for anyone starting out?
Annie: Patience, patience, patience and always ... commitment and diligence.
Maddie: Getting involved in the community is also key. Volunteer, be social, and don’t pass up a new opportunity to help and meet new people in new places.
Definition of success?
Annie: To us, success is not defined monetarily but by our strong and trusting relationships with our clients. They are like family to us!
For more information, visit atproperties.com/ teams/607/the-flanagan-group and follow @theflanagangroupre on Instagram.
Annie Flanagan
Maddie Flanagan
“Do what you love and you will never work a day in your life.”
– CONFUCIUS
EMPOWERING SUCCESS
MARINA SHAKHMAN Psy.D., M.A., has built a practice on the belief that psychotherapy should focus on health, wellbeing, growth, and healing rather than the traditional mental illness or pathology orientations. “Seeing individuals overcome challenges, gain deeper self-understanding, and make positive changes in their lives brings me immense fulfillment, explains Dr. Shakhman, Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Director of Clinical Services, and Owner of Grand Oaks Behavioral Health, LLC. This innovative behavioral health group practice offers quality mental health care to children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Experienced Licensed Psychologists and Clinical Therapists provide researchbased Psychotherapy services, as well as Psychological Testing/ Diagnosis of various psychological/emotional/behavioral concerns. Other services include Bariatric Assessment, Military Entrance, and Veterans Disability Examination. Dr. Shakhman values the Psychologist-Patient relationship and is interactive, collaborative, and educational in the way she works with patients. “My goal for the practice is to empower individuals to have the life they envision for themselves,” she says.
Most rewarding part of what you do? I am truly honored to bear witness to the transformative journey of my patients through clinical work. It's incredibly gratifying to play a direct role in their growth.
Definition of success? Being a wife, mother of four great kids, and a practice owner. My definition of success encompasses achieving a balance that fulfills my responsibilities and aspirations in each role I play. Success, to me, involves finding harmony between my professional ambitions and family commitments, ensuring that neither aspect compromises the other.
Best piece of advice for anyone starting out? Passionately pursue your interests and align them with your professional endeavors.
Powerful woman you admire the most?
My late mother, who gave me the gift of love, encouragement, and nurturance. Through her legacy, I am now capable of imparting these virtues in both my personal and professional relationships.
For more information, visit grandoaksbh.com.
“I have learned that as long as I hold fast to my beliefs and values—and follow my own moral compass—then the only expectations I need to live up to are my own.”
– MICHELLE OBAMA
HAPPY HOMEOWNERS
When Winnetka native CHA MCDANIEL bought a home on the North Shore about 27 years ago, the process was anything but smooth. “Buying and selling real estate should be a much happier experience,” she remembers thinking. From this positive attitude, service-oriented focus, and a desire to bring clients win-win results, a real estate star was born. She earned her MBA from Quinlan School of Business and worked as an Estate Settlement Administrator at the Northern Trust Company before taking the leap. McDaniel frequently sold properties and worked closely with beneficiaries in distributing the proceeds in this role, giving her many of the skills she needed to excel as a real estate agent. Today, she treats each transaction for her clients at @properties Christies International Real Estate as if it were her own—managing every detail, whether it’s helping buyers find their dream home or helping sellers preparing a property for listing. McDaniel’s in-depth knowledge of the North Shore, its schools, recreation, and area amenities paints a winning picture. The result is a faithful roster of clients who leave the transaction with a far happier experience than she did all those years ago.
Most rewarding part of what you do? Seeing my client’s happiness at being able to move on to the next chapter of their lives.
How should women support other women? By helping each other and being just as happy for their success as you are of your own.
How do you inspire others? By being true to myself. I strive to demonstrate the values and work ethic I wish to see in others.
Definition of success? Success isn’t measured by numbers on a page. It means knowing I’ve done the best job I can with the utmost integrity.
For more information, visit charmcdaniel.com and follow Cha-McDaniel-Real-Estate-Broker on Facebook, cha-mcdaniel on LinkedIn and @chamcdaniel on Instagram.
“Never put off to tomorrow what you can do today.”
– BENJAMIN FRANKLIN
JEWELER BY DESIGN
As one of 10 children who was raised by two parents who “sacrificed everything for their family,”
JACQUELINE JURICA grew up with a good ethic, surrounded by love. “I have been in the jewelry business since I was 15 years old—starting out in a shop learning how to do jewelry repairs and engraving,” says Jurica, owner of Jacqueline's of Highland Park Jewelers. “I have since worked for Fortunoff's on 5th Avenue, in the diamond district of New York, and managed a fine jewelry store at Water Tower Place.” She opened Exclusively Jacquelines in 1993 and has since owned and operated 10 locations, including Jacqueline's of Northbrook Jewelers. “We have an on-premise shop with six full-time jewelers, and do all jewelry design and repair from start to finish here at our Highland Park location,” explains Jurica, adding that her passion is to take outdated jewelry and redesign it into something new that can be worn every day. “We also carry engagement rings in both natural and lab-grown diamonds and have a showroom with a fine designer jewelry selection of more than 7,500 items.”
Most rewarding part of what you do? Every day I am rewarded, thanked, and hugged. I love making jewelry and memories with my clients.
How should women support other women? By listening to their needs and helping them to overcome obstacles, through experience.
How do you inspire others? I hope to inspire others by maintaining integrity and by teaching hard work, customer service, and dedication.
Powerful woman you admire the most? Jewel Kadet, owner of Rogers & Hollands.
Greatest risk you’ve taken as a professional? My biggest risk was opening my first location with only $1,200 in my account and living on my parents couch.
For more information, visit jacquelinesjewelers.com and follow @jacquelinesofhighland on Instagram and @jacquelinesofnb/boards on Pinterest.
“Step with care and great tact, and remember that life’s a great balancing act.”
– DR. SEUSS
COMPASSIONATE CARE
DR. ANAT ASZODI LANSKY received two bachelor’s degrees in chemistry and psychology at Indiana University before earning her medical degree at St. George’s University School of Medicine. She completed her Internal Medicine Residency at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center in Chicago and brings more than 20 years of experience in Internal Medicine to her patients. Dr. Lansky is on staff at Endeavor Health and Northwestern Hospital, specializing in women’s health through Dedication Health’s concierge medical offices in Winnetka and Wilmette.
Definition of success? Success is a personal journey, with success and failure often closely intertwined. I aim for a purpose in my life, continually evolving, and striving to make a positive impact on the lives of those around me.
Most rewarding part of what you do? I feel fortunate to forge enduring relationships with people, which enables me to provide compassionate care and empowerment to my patients. By deeply understanding individuals, my goal is to help them feel their best and provide steadfast support.
Best piece of advice for anyone starting out? My advice is to persevere relentlessly. Keep pushing forward, even when the challenges seem insurmountable. Aim for what seems impossible and refuse to retreat.
For more information, visit dedication-health.com/dr-anat-a-lansky.
“Ignite the mind’s spark to rise the sun in you.”
– FLORENCE NIGHTINGALE
POWER OF POSITIVITY
DR. JANA MECHUROVA received her medical degree from Komenskeho University in Bratislava, Slovakia, and completed her residency in John H. Stroger Hospital in Chicago. She worked as an Assistant Program Director at Mount Sinai Hospital in Chicago—teaching and supervising residents and providing primary care services to underserved patient populations. Later, Dr. Mechurova accepted a primary care position in Endeavor Health where her main focus of care was on patients with complex medical conditions, women’s health, preventative care, and counseling. She is fluent in English, Slovak, and Czech, and speaks basic Spanish. Board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine, Dr. Mechurova currently serves as a concierge physician at Dedication Health in Wilmette and Winnetka.
Most rewarding part of what you do? The most rewarding part of being a physician is the ability to help those in need and to be able to make a positive impact on patients’ lives.
How should women support other women? By talking, sharing experiences and knowledge, women can help each other face and overcome various challenges.
How do you inspire others? I am trying to encourage others to look at the positive aspect of things and focus on progress they’ve made. By making myself available and talking to people, I let them see that their aspirations and values are possible. I offer the support they need to get one step closer to the goals they set for themselves.
Definition of success? Success is a good blend of the accomplishments I achieved over time that leads to a balance in my professional and personal life.
Best piece of advice for anyone starting out? Do not give up on your dreams. Stay motivated and be patient! The success will eventually come.
For more information, visit dedication-health.com/dr-jana-mechurova.
“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”
– WINSTON CHURCHILL
WINNING WORK ETHIC
As the child of an immigrant, JENNY LIM SPIGGOS watched her parents work countless hours a day, six to seven days a week, instilling a work ethic that stays with her today as a broker at Coldwell Banker Realty. “My late mother, who spoke broken English, found success as a general contractor so real estate came very naturally to me,” says Lim Spiggos, adding that her mother is also one of her greatest inspirations. “She always told me I can achieve anything as long as I had the determination and work ethic.” Lim Spiggos and her partner, Pete Mangione, have earned top awards at Coldwell Banker, including President’s Club. She was also featured in a real estate reality TV show on Hulu about first-time home buyers earlier this year. Despite this success, she says that what makes her most proud are her two sons, Devin and Brady.
How should women support other women? By uplifting their spirits and collaborating to make one another better.
How do you inspire others? I tell my truth, my story. I try to make people feel important.
Definition of success? Loving what I do, achieving financial independence as a single mother, but most importantly raising my boys to be kind and responsible human beings.
Greatest risk you’ve taken as a professional? Going into a commission-only career as the sole bread winner of my family.
Best piece of advice for anyone starting out? This is not a parttime job. Also, tell everyone who you are and what you do. You want to be the fore front of everyone’s mind when they think of a Realtor.
For more information, follow @jennionyourblock on Instagram and Jenny Lim Spiggos on Facebook.
“Your heart knows the way. Run in that direction.”
– RUMI
GUIDING POWERFUL WOMEN I
n her book, Designed to Shine: Living Intentionally to Discover Your Inner Light, KRISTIN SVETS writes that “true abundance is success of the soul.” This author, speaker, and certified professional coach instills that high performance mantra with the female executives and leaders that she works with as an intuition mentor and sound bath and breathwork facilitator.
Most rewarding part of what you do? Navigating our world of constant change and often chaos requires resilience and self-trust. When those are strong, we can stay in a state of being grounded and calm, and that state allows for innovative leadership and creative flow. Guiding powerful women to regulate their nervous system so that they can elevate their energy, master their mindset, and trust their intuition, is incredibly rewarding.
How do you inspire others? I hope that I inspire others through my work, by continuing to evolve and expand, from a place of both self-care and an insatiable desire to uplift the world. My book was a goal that I put on my bucket list when I turned 50. By completing that, I hope I showed others that you don’t have to wait for that invitation or permission slip. You get to give that to yourself, and take the leap. Additionally, my sound bath and breathwork experiences evolved out of realizing how important it is to intentionally nourish our nervous systems. People are inspired by that energy as they truly feel it when they attend my events.
Definition of success? I believe in hard work and going after big visions. The key to my definition of success is cultivating your heart and soul-aligned life.
For more information, visit kristinsvets.com, follow @kristinsvetscoaching on Instagram and Facebook, and kristin-svets on LinkedIn.
“Praise
– THOMAS KEN
FAMILY FIRST
SARAH ELDER LYONS a broker with @properties Christie's International Real Estate in Winnetka, loves selling real estate on the North Shore because she believes in the community where she raised her own family. Heading into her 20th year in real estate, she has achieved almost every accolade possible, including being recognized as one of The Wall Street Journal’s RealTrends "Top Real Estate 1.5 percent of 1.6 Million Brokers in America." She also ranks in the top 5 percent by the North Shore Board of REALTORS®. A proud North Shore resident, Lyons has been giving back for 20 years through volunteer work with the Rush University Medical Center Auxiliary Woman's Board. However, she says her greatest accomplishment is her three successful, strong, young daughters—Elizabeth, Gabrielle, and Alexandra. “My family has thrived on the North Shore,” she says. “My goal is to help you and your family find the happiness that is possible here.”
Most rewarding part of what you do? Helping individuals and families in purchasing their largest financial investment, helping them discover their dream homes, which are essential for their happiness, success, and overall well-being.
How should women support other women? Always be their biggest cheerleader in all their endeavors. Not knock their crown off—rather help fix it!
How do you inspire others I like to think my positivity in all situations—find the good—keep the faith mindset. Never ever give up. I also try to live my best life each day because tomorrow isn't a given.
Definition of success? My definition of success is my children's love and successes. Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis once said, "If you bungle raising your children, I don't think whatever else you do will matter very much."
For more information, visit atproperties.com/agents/2460/sarah-elder-lyons and follow @sarahelderlyons on Instagram.
“Positive emotions are not trivial luxuries, but instead critical necessities for optimal functioning.”
– BARBARA FREDRICKSON
INSPIRED TO INFLUENCE
It’s no wonder that LAUREN SCHIFFERDECKER, LCPC, was named “The Most Influential Woman Entrepreneur Thriving in the Healthcare System” by Healthcare Insights magazine. This CEO and founder of Inspire Counseling Center, with locations in Kenilworth, Lake Forest, Northbrook, and Evanston, is also a best-selling author and speaker. Inspire Counseling Center is known for providing high-end psychiatry and counseling services for kids, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Beyond Inspire, Schifferdecker is a TEDx speaker, author of She’s Not Crazy: Dare to Understand Your Feminine Power, and founder of a nonprofit, Inspire Change for Mental Health. A proud wife and mom, those close to her know she has a big heart and loves to laugh while also serving others and making a difference in her community.
Most rewarding part of what you do? When someone stops me on the street to tell me how their life, or their child’s life, has changed because of their time at Inspire. That is what fuels me to work harder each and every day.
How should women support other women? Remember that one woman’s success leads to another woman’s success. When we can allow other women to inspire us, it serves us more than we’ll ever know. Women are a formidable force when we’re connected.
How do you inspire others? My gift is that I can see the good in anyone. When people feel seen and loved, the whole world opens up for their potential and possibilities.
Definition of success? Having the guts to try something that scares you. Success is trying.
Greatest risk you’ve taken as a professional? Opening a new location. Each time it is extremely exciting and scary, but I’m passionate about making mental health convenient, affordable, and part of the community.
For more information, visit inspirecounselingcenter.com, follow @inspire_counseling on Instagram, and Inspirecounselingcenter on Facebook.
“Try not to become a person of success, but rather try to become a person of value.”
– ALBERT EINSTEIN
AWARD-WINNING EXPERTISE
LYN FLANNERY understands that buying and selling a home is an enormous decision. To ensure that her clients are making the best choices with one of their biggest investments, this award-winning real estate broker utilizes her North Shore market expertise and listening skills. With an MBA from the University of Chicago, Flannery’s business acumen and determination has resulted in more than $250 million in sales.
How should women support other women?
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of being inspired by women leaders who forge paths with strength and vision. My mentor at Amoco encouraged me to earn my MBA, all while managing a full-time corporate job. Now, as a Realtor, I’m proud to support incredible women leaders on the North Shore—entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, business school professors, doctors, financial moguls, and even a vegan restauranteur. They trust me to handle their real estate needs so they can focus on what matters most. Power Women uplift each other, and I’m honored to be part of that circle.
Definition of success?
Relationships are the foundation of everything I do. I enjoy running into clients around town and hearing how much they still love their home and neighborhood. For me, success is knowing my clients value me so much that they refer me to their family, friends, and colleagues.
Greatest risk you’ve taken as a professional?
Bringing my husband of 33 years onto my team full time was a calculated risk that paid off. We met in college, both with marketing backgrounds—his in data and research. As real estate demand surged post-COVID, I needed help, and his skills became crucial as data-driven strategies became more important in the industry and to our clients. Our complementary strengths help us deliver top-notch service, and clients appreciate Jim’s intelligence and sense of humor. Plus, the added bonus is spending more time together.
For more information, visit lynflannery.com and follow LynSellsNorthShore on TikTok, @LynFlanneryRealEstate on Instagram, and Lyn Flannery-North Shore Real Estate on Facebook.
“Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.”
– MARINE WILLIAMSON
CONFIDENCE BUILDER
JESSE SCHIRMANG began her 12-year fitness career at PURE Yoga NYC’s training program, where she studied to teach yoga. “I eventually made my way over to the barre scene and absolutely fell in love with all it had to offer,” says Schirmang, explaining that in 2022, she became the owner of SALT Fitness North Shore, a studio she began teaching at eight years ago. “SALT offers clients the opportunity to strengthen both mind and body while enjoying a fabulous community of like-minded individuals.” She is grateful for the opportunity to run SALT and enjoys guiding “some truly awesome clients” towards being the best version of themselves. In addition to teaching and running the business, Schirmang and her husband have four children ranging in ages from 4 to 14.
Most rewarding part of what you do? Providing a space where people can come to find strength and confidence in their own skin. I think what we see on social media and a lot in the fitness world especially is the idea of a “perfect body.” At SALT there is no “perfect” but instead an amazing version of you that looks different for everyone, but is equally as beautiful.
How should women support other women? By lifting those around you up! The North Shore is a small community that is rich in strong, successful women and as one of four girls, I have been able to experience a smaller version of that amazing community within my own family as well. While it is a definite cliche, we are stronger together and I see that every day at work, within my extended family, socially, and at home.
Definition of success? Finding purpose and joy in your everyday life, which I think is a constantly evolving bar.
For more information, visit saltfitnorthshore.com and follow @jschirmang and @saltnorthshore on Instagram.
Dress by La Ligne from Bunny & Babe
“The most wasted of days is the one without laughter.”
– E.E. CUMMINGS
LUXURY LISTER
JODY DICKSTEIN with @properties Christie’s International Real Estate is known as the "Luxury Home Lister," not only for the homes she lists but by giving her clients the concierge service they are accustomed to. She specializes in homes ranging from $500,000 to $10 million and has cultivated expertise on the North Shore. A highly skilled stager, she also has the ability to do home makeovers for her clients. Dickstein has 24 years as a top listing agent and in 2021 was named a Crain’s Chicago Business Notable Real Estate Broker. She is also among the top 50 Chicago brokers and in the top 1 percent in residential sales volume for @properties Christie’s International Real Estate.
Most rewarding part of what you do? I love working in real estate. I enjoy being with different people all the time. At the end of a sales transaction, I really enjoy seeing the seller or buyer thrilled with the process instead of stressed. I have worked with many clients who have become my friends. This is rewarding and I personally care about all of my clients.
Definition of success? Success in my opinion is family. I am blessed with a large family and extended family. We all care about each other and laugh a lot. It’s not about money and things, it’s about love.
Best piece of advice for anyone starting out? I would let new agents know that they should become familiar with the market they want to be in. Real estate sales take time when you are new, so hang in there. Try teaming up with a real estate professional. Ask your friends and family for referrals. Work daily to build trust with your clients. It’s all about learning and being smart about the market.
For more information, visit thedicksteingroup.com.
“God is in the details.”
– LUDWIG MILES VAN DER ROHE
GROUNDBREAKING SURGEON K
ATHERINE KOPKASH, M.D. FACS, is the Director of Oncoplastic Breast Cancer Surgery for Endeavor Health and Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine. She earned a bachelor’s degree in biology at the University of Illinois before completing her medical school and surgery residency at Rush University Medical Center. Dr. Kopkash also did a fellowship in Oncoplastic Breast Surgery at the University of Southern California. “I have been in practice for over a decade as an academic breast cancer surgeon and my research interests focus on innovation in breast cancer surgery,” she explains. “I am the Principal Investigator for two ground-breaking national clinical trials that are using the robotic approach for nipple-sparing mastectomies and reconstruction.”
Most rewarding part of what you do? I truly enjoy educating my patients on all of their options and then helping them choose the right treatment plan that honors their health goals. Nothing is more rewarding than performing a cancer surgery with an excellent oncologic outcome that provides my patient with a beautiful cosmetic result.
Definition of success? Success is living a life you can be proud of. For me that means doing good work, surrounding myself with people I love, and continuously growing and improving as a human.
Best piece of advice for anyone starting out? You only get one life so make it worth it. There is no shame in trying your best and failing. Life is such a great adventure and we never know what the future holds. Don’t be afraid to make bold moves!
Traits you think great leaders possess?
A great leader has a clear vision for the future and they encourage their team to function at the highest level to work towards achieving that goal.
For more information, visit northshore.org.
Center for Divorce Resolution
“Sharon and David were absolute gems during this process. Their patience and presence made the process so much easier than expected. I highly recommend them to all couples navigating such a difficult time.”
Sharon Count Founder and Mediator
David Fein Mediator
LIVING & GIVING
THE BRIGHT WHITE PARTY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY COLLIN
PIERSON
The Lyon Family Foundation hosted “The Bright White Party” as an end-of-summer soirée, with a sponsor-only cocktail hour hosted at The St. Regis Terrace, dinner and a Luxury Purse and Accessory Auction aboard the glass-topped boat, The Odyssey , and an after party hosted at The St. Regis Chicago’s Miru. Each guest was greeted with a Slip sleep mask in their zodiac sign atop their place setting, a nod to making dreams come true. The event benefited the foundation’s Lyon’s Way initiative with University of Chicago’s Comer Children’s Hospital, with fundraising supporting The Fertile Hope Program, allowing for fertility counseling and treatment to be free of charge for patients at risk of infertility from their cancer treatment. Special thanks to presenting sponsor, Ferrari Lake Forest, and exclusive wine/spirits providers, Inspiro Tequila and Laurent-Perrier. The evening raised more than $180,000. lyonsway.org
he Ravinia Festival’s annual fundraising gala, hosted by the Ravinia Women’s Board, was a dazzling success, raising more than $760,000 to support the festival’s Reach Teach Play education programs. These programs serve more than 20,000 people across Chicagoland, ensuring that many area schools and communities have equitable access to music. The highlight of the evening was a captivating performance by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, sponsored by the Dancing Skies Foundation. The performance, expertly curated and hosted by actor and director Rob Lindley, and conducted by Broadway veteran Kevin Stites, honored the legacy of iconic American composer and multi-talented artist, Henry Mancini. Broadway stars Jessie Mueller, Norm Lewis, and Karen Mason, as well as special guest Monica Mancini and the Ravinia Jazz Mentors & Scholars, joined the CSO in performing many of Mancini’s timeless themes. The night concluded with an elegant mid-century-themed dinner. ravinia.org.
Ravinia President and CEO Jeff Haydon and Kathryn Haydon
ArtEdge, Chicago’s most anticipated gala, builds on a legacy of unforgettable events that fuel philanthropic support of MCA exhibitions and programs. This year, guests were invited to enter the daring world of cabaret, where live music, performances, and a curated menu of cocktails and decadent fare captured the spirit of this unique art form. Entertainment included a set by the 2023 Winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race, Sasha Colby, a program by TEASE, if you please!, music by Gold Coast Events’ Jazz Ensemble, and a performance by The Torregrossa Brothers. More than 400 guests attended, and the event raised $1.7 million to support the museum’s exhibitions and public programs. mcachicago.org
MCA Board Chair Cari B. Sacks, ArtEdge Co-chairs Meredith Bluhm-Wolf and Robin Loewenberg Tebbe, MCA Pritzker Director Madeleine Grynsztejn
Sandy and Jack Guthman
Jana and Bernardo Hees
David and Rachel Grund
Sasha Colby performing
Tease Productions’ Emcee Ariana Savalas
Anne Kaplan, Marc Brooks, Dia Weil
LIVING & GIVING
MUSIC HEALS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY IAN MCLEOD
Music Heals International’s (MHI) benefit concert at Adrian and Nancy Smith’s beautiful David Adler-designed estate was a wonderful night of music with the incredible Jeffrey Steele and special guest Paul Beaubrun. The auction consisted of guitars donated by Gibson Gives and signed by Jackson Browne, Vince Gill, and Miranda Lambert. Funds raised help support MHI’s kids in Haiti, India, and their newly launched program in Venezuela. Sponsors included ISTO Advisors, Just Rite IT, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, 818 Tequila, Sommarøy Spirits, Constellation Brands, The Long Drink Company, and Miller Cooper. mhinternational.org
Adrian and Nancy Smith
Feature performer Jeffrey Steele
Stephanie Klein, Cai Miller
Bruce and Sandra Noworul, Julie Weber, Shelly Greco
Eleanor Van Antwerp, Emma Kelly
Opening performer Paul Beaubrun
Samantha and Scott Falbe
LIVING & GIVING
JUF SPRING EVENT
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBERT
KUSEL
JUF Women’s Philanthropy hosted their annual Spring Event at The Geraghty featuring Bethenny Frankel, a self-made businessperson, TV producer, podcast host, bestselling author, philanthropist, social media influencer, and mother. The event raised $684,000 to support JUF’s annual campaign, which provides life-saving services and life-enriching experiences for 500,000 Chicagoans of all faiths and millions of Jews worldwide. juf.org
Ruth Fromm
Stephani Perlmutter, Hannah Perl
Courtney Anixter Golding, Bethenny Frankel
Alissa Simon, Jennifer Dorfman, Linda Schottenstein Fisher
Jenna Shapiro
Alexandra Thompson, Gail Joseph, Erica Joseph
Amy Weinberg Olswang, Lisa Gelles, Bethenny Frankel, Jamie Ordower Zaransky, Janna Berk
Jenna Shapiro, Naomi Fox Taylor, Bethenny Frankel, Lori Fogelson, Ruth Fromm
LIVING & GIVING
WOMEN BUILDING WEALTH
PHOTOGRAPHY BY IAN MCLEOD
Desiree Vargas Wrigley led a lively discussion about investing in venture capital with a select group of women on Le Colonial’s patio. From founding Josephine Collective, Chicago’s most active angel investor group, to building the largest source of non-dilutive funding for underrepresented Chicago-based founders through TechRise to launching Velocity Catalyst, a new venture fund designed to catalyze growth for Chicago’s venture economy and build wealth for local investors, Wrigley is committed to increasing female participation in venture capital and empowering more women to take active roles in building wealth. Attendees Karen Kerr of Exposition Ventures, Sonia Nagar of SNAK Ventures, and Betsy Fore of Velveteen Ventures also shared information about their funds. Dynamic conversation with exceptional women made for a fascinating afternoon.
Betsy Fore
Anna Assenmacher, Desiree Vargas Wrigley
Cassie Mancuso Carver, Jessica Fairchild
Shelly Marks, Chloé Mendel
Pim Alley, Karen Kerr
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TPublisher’s Profile
WORDS BY STEVEN BLOCH, M.D.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MONICA KASS ROGERS
PLASTIC SURGERY UPDATE: THE ARTISTIC NOSE
he nose is the first facial feature other people notice, not only because it is in the middle of the face, but also because it does not lend itself to camouflage. There is no such thing as the “perfect” nose. Different people have different features, and the purpose of a rhinoplasty is to create a natural harmonious look that doesn’t look “operated” on. Very often patients come in complaining of their profiles. They look like one person from the front and a totally different person from the side. The object of the surgery is to get the two views to match. The use of computer-simulated images is a major advance in taking the guesswork out of what the surgical result will look like. It allows the surgeon to show the patient what he or she has in mind. In order to achieve a harmonious result, it is often important to modify other facial features such as the chin and neck. The nose should be viewed in the context of the entire face. A turned up, scooped out, little nose may look very attractive on some women, but on someone else it may look totally out of place and unnatural. Most patients seek a “refinement” or
natural look. The three most common flaws addressed by rhinoplasty are a hump on the bridge, a bulbous tip, and a nose that is too large when compared to other facial features. Regardless of the flaws fixed, the goal is to achieve a natural-looking outcome.
The surgery itself is usually done on an outpatient basis under IV sedation. The techniques vary but consist of filing down excess bone, reducing excess cartilage, and adding additional cartilage or bone when needed. Each case is unique and millimeters count. Most patients have a splint in place for one week, and there is some bruising and swelling, but it is usually minimal. Most noses look good at the end of one week, yet it can take nine months to one year for every last bit of swelling to subside, as well as for the skin to shrink to the smaller structure. To balance out the profile, often some modification of the jawline or chin is done. If the chin is too small, a mini-incision is made under the chin or through the mouth. A pocket is created over the chin and an implant is inserted. The implant is made out of solid silicone and feels like the underlying bone. If the chin is too prominent, then the chin can be filed down from inside the mouth. If the neck is poorly defined, then liposuction can be done at the same time to give greater definition. Rhinoplasty is probably one of the most challenging procedures plastic surgeons perform, both technically and aesthetically. It is also one of the most gratifying. It has the potential to significantly enhance one’s appearance and give them the self-confidence to better enjoy their life.
For additional information, visit bodybybloch.com or Dr. Bloch can be reached at his Highland Park office at 847-432-0840.
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SHANA VITEK
EQUITY PARTNER
DIVORCE WITHOUT COURT: MEDIATION
Mediation is a process frequently utilized in divorce proceedings to resolve both child-related and financial matters. Mediated divorces are typically less expensive and are resolved quicker than litigated divorces. In mediation, spouses and their attorneys agree upon a mediator who is usually a seasoned divorce attorney or a retired domestic relations judge. In some instances, the court will select the mediator for the parties. The parties can attend mediation with or without their attorneys but, either way, should have their own attorneys to consult with before signing off on any mediated agreements. Mediation is not a binding process; the mediator will not take sides and will not make any final decisions for the family. The mediator will guide discussions, as one of the primary advantages of mediation in divorce cases is its focus on preserving relationships. Traditional litigation tends to fuel adversarial dynamics between spouses, further escalating tensions. Mediation, on the other hand, encourages open communication, empathy, and cooperation. By working together to find mutually agreeable solutions, couples are more likely to maintain amicable post-divorce relationships, which is especially crucial when children are involved. In a mediated divorce, couples have greater control over the outcome compared to a court-imposed decision. This empowerment allows individuals to shape their own agreements tailored to their unique circumstances which can lead to more satisfactory and durable agreements, reducing the likelihood of postdivorce disputes.
Shana Vitek is an Equity Partner at Beermann LLP, the largest family law firm in Illinois. For over 20 years, she has practiced family law exclusively and is trained in mediation, arbitration, and collaborative law.
For more information, visit www.beermannlaw.com/team/shana-l-vitek.
PARTING WORDS
HONORING HER ROOTS
As Executive Director of the National Hellenic Museum, Marianne Kountoures welcomes everyone to celebrate the richness of Greek history and culture.
WORDS BY THOMAS CONNORS / ILLUSTRATION BY ROBERT RISKO
The white picket fence, the corner store, the church picnic, the cop on the beat. Fewer and fewer of us recognize the world these things describe. We may be living in a global village, but it’s not spun of front stoops and alleyways. Yet, if there’s any place where the neighborhood of old survives, it’s in immigrant communities, where the shared experience of acclimation and adjustment defines a neighborhood.
Marianne Kountoures, Executive Director of the National Hellenic Museum (NHM), grew up in a multigenerational Greek American family living under one roof in Chicago’s Roseland neighborhood. “Anyone who has been raised with immigrant grandparents in their home knows they are the guiding lights who make you keenly aware of your heritage and how you’ve benefited from the sacrifices of those who came before you,” she says.
Kountoures and her three brothers worked alongside their parents in the family business, the Country House Restaurant in Alsip, a 180-seat breakfast-to-dinner place operated seven days a week. “That restaurant consumed our lives and shaped my formative years,” she shares. “Working the counter taught me how to listen, observe, challenge, and accept differences in people and their experiences.”
A long-time Evanston resident, where she raised her own three children, Kountoures studied art history at the University of Illinois Chicago. While operating a small interior design business, she also threw herself into volunteer work and became deeply involved in the city’s public schools. “In 2003, I realized that to have the power to make decisions in the best interests of your community, you have to be at the table. That’s why I ran for the Evanston-Skokie School District 65 Board, where I served four years. I was lucky to have the late Hecky Powell as a mentor. He was an Evanston restaurant owner and a respected leader in the community.”
Edward-Elmhurst Hospital, she learned the NHM was searching for a director of development. Impressed by how the museum— founded in 1983 by a handful of committed philanthropists who wanted to preserve Greek culture—had grown into a Greektown institution, she brought her talents to the NHM as Director of Development from 2014 to 2016. “I then took on other roles to advance my skills, including leading a comprehensive stewardship and donor recognition program at the University of Illinois Chicago College of Engineering. When the Museum’s executive board offered me the opportunity to return as Executive Director in 2021, I was honored to do so. Not just because I am a Greek American, but because I believe strongly in the universality and relatability of Greek history and the Greek American experience.”
Like all cultural institutions, the NHM has had to negotiate the challenges of the post-COVID environment. It reopened in the fall of 2022 with the appropriately titled Resilience, an exhibition of nature-driven photographs by HRH Prince Nikolaos, the third child of Greece’s last king and queen.
“We relaunched our critically acclaimed Mock Trial series, which connects audiences with the contemporary relevance of ancient Greek legal issues,” notes Kountoures, “and the museum now offers increased on-site field trips and visits to schools that provide students with exciting opportunities to make connections between Greek culture and their own lives. Plus, our expanded online learning series, NHM Discussions, has reached thousands of participants across Chicago, the United States, and internationally.”
A new challenge came to her when she was hired by education leader, Sunny Chico, to develop the Chico family’s nonprofit organization and begin a tutoring and mentoring program for at-risk middle school girls. Later, while working in fundraising for
Looking ahead, the NMH is working to broaden awareness among scholars and academic institutions of its robust collection of more than 10,000 artifacts and expand the Frank S. Kamberos Oral History Center collection to capture Greek American history from the people who lived it. “In all that we do,” states Kountoures, “we are always looking to make relevant connections between the past and the present, Greece and America, the Hellenic legacy and our current time. These are the ties that can bind us together across generations and cultures.”
For more information, visit nationalhellenicmuseum.org.
TREATING EVERY GAME L IKE HIS FIRST. GIANNIS ANTETOKOUNMPO WEARS THE CHRONOMAT.
