Main and Luxe Magazine - Issue 5 | February 2022

Main & Luxe Naperville

Issue 5 | February 2022

1559 W OGDEN AVE 630041330690

NAPERVILLE, IL 60540

FOR US, IT ISN’T JUST ABOUT MAKING A SALE, BUT CREATING A POSITIVE RELATIONSHIP THAT WILL HOPEFULLY HAVE A LONGGLASTING FUTURE.

JAG U A R L A N D ROV E R , N A PE RV I L L E TAKING CARE OF YOU EVERY DAY, THAT’S THE PATRICK PROMISE! At Jaguar Land Rover of Naperville, our dealership is a proud member of the Patrick Dealer Group. Family-owned and operated for four generations, our team knows what it takes to provide our each of our customers with the ideal customer service experience.

From the moment you arrive in our showroom through the life Fr of your vehicle, you'll find much more than an extensive collection of luxury vehicles and a state-of-the-art service center — you'll find a team that is committed to putting your needs first.

Whether it’s buying, leasing, repairing, or accessorizing your perfect car, truck or SUV, we’ll do absolutely everything possible to deliver your ultimate satisfaction.

It’s a Patrick Thing!

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At Jaguar Land Rover of Naperville, we want to help you find the vehicle of your dreams.

• New Jaguar and Land Rover Inventory • Certified Pre-Owned and Used Vehicles Arriving Daily • Pre-Order or Customize an Incoming Vehicle Our Patrick Promise includes exclusive member benefits with the purchase of a vehicle from Jaguar Land Rover of Naperville: • Patrick Direct Pick-Up and Delivery Concierge • One Year Tire & Wheel Coverage • One Year Dent & Ding Coverage • One Year Windshield Coverage • 3 Year Collision Deductible Rebate¹ • 10% Off Transmission & Fuel Services² • 10% Off Accessory Products²

¹ Collision rebate is 10% of repair costs up to a maximum $500 rebate ² Must present when service order is written. Not applicable to prior purchases. Not valid with any other offer. Maximum discount of $250 per service.

Does not include tax, shop supplies, hazardous waste fee, if applicable

Contents and Credits Features 6 Social

See and Be Seen

8 Editorial Connections

10 Dine

MicroWeddings

14 Community Make New Friends

16 Curated Splurge Sparkle

18 Luxe Life

Lavish Nuptials

22 Give Back

Career Networking

24 Live Here

Embellishments

18 Glimpse of Gourmet 26 The Settlement Surf ‘n Turf

20 At the Library Fellowship via a Book

Debate Society

30 Profile

Branching Out

The Cover: A moment of joyful gift-giving.

Jewelry: James and Sons, 110 S Washington Street; Models: Mary and Dennis Kostic, Naperville © Firefly Nights Photography

MicroWeddings

Founder / Direction / Layout Ashley South

Page 10

Senior Editor Christina Balsano Wichmann Contributing Editorial Writers JD Hollyfield Samar Istanbouli Photography Cover - Megan Drane, Firefly Nights Photography Katie Braga, Katie Braga Photography Emily Cummings, Emily Cummings Photography Consultants Ross Creative Works Publisher Bluehouse Publishing Inc Naperville, IL bluehousepublishinginc.com

Courtesy of JD Hollyfield

An intimate affair with only your closest connections

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Main & Luxe, February 2022

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you

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Phone: 630-416-8998

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Social

See and Be Seen Winter Wine Walk

Brought to you by Downtown Naperville Alliance Sunday, February 6th 11:30am to 5:00pm Downtown Naperville downtownnaperville.com

$50. Your ticket includes: 13 stops with 1-oz pours, exclusive insulated wine tumbler, snacks at every stop, and a discount on a future Downtown Naperville wine experience (courtesy of Tasting deVine Cellars).

An Evening of Storytelling - Friendship Sponsored by The People Tree Thursday, February 17th 6:00pm to 9:30pm Empire Restaurant, first floor facebook.com/NapervillePeopleTree

$20. Friends are amazing. They occupy that special space between family and just “other people.” Listen to people’s stories.

Seating is on a first-come basis. Registration required.

Andrew’s Floral Design Class Hosted by Andrew’s Garden Thursday, February 24th 7:00pm to 8:30pm Andrew’s Garden andrewsgarden.com

VIRTUAL

$135. We will show you how to combine different varieties of flowers, greenery, textural elements, and other natural materials to accomplish that recognizable style you have come to expect from Andrew’s Garden. Registration required.

Brown Bag Lecture: Hail to the Chief Presented by Naperville Public Library Thursday, February 17th 1:00pm to 2:00pm Registration required. napervillepl.librarycalendar.com

Free. From “Convention City” to the site of the first “Great Debate” to POTUS 44, Chicago has a long and storied relationship with political conventions, presidents, and assassinations.

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Main & Luxe, February 2022

ZadesLounge.com ZadesLoungeInfo@shhospitality.co

22 E. CHICAGO AVE, NAPERVILLE, IL 60540

Editorial

Connections C

onnections in daily life come in all sorts of forms: friends, family, significant others, children, coworkers, neighbors, and casual personal and professional relationships. Each of these types of connections require a different adaption by you, and it takes work to successfully cultivate the ones that mean the most to you.

Prioritizing your time also means trade-offs. You might decline a wine club night to spend time with your best friend who is going through a divorce. Or you might choose to attend a networking event at the chamber of commerce to grow your fledgling business instead of your standing date night with your husband (sorry, honey!).

Plato writes extensively about connections. The term “Platonic love/ relationship” comes from his writing in the Symposium (c. 385–370 BC).

In the Symposium, Plato uses the metaphor “ladder of love” to describe varying levels of closeness from carnal attraction to attraction to souls, and eventually, union with the truth. Each step on the ladder brings a person closer to the truth, which distances love from beauty of the body toward love that is the essence of beauty, an everlasting love that neither fades nor grows.

I believe each connection starts with a small spark via a conversation. These tiny bits grow and compete for priority with other tiny daily sparks. Plato says that “eventually, (you will have) union with the truth.” Your truth—whatever that connection means to you and how much you are able (and care) to nurture it. When you find a person that sparks your truth, you find yourself nurturing the flame of this truth.

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Recently, I received a call from Dana Davenport, Profile feature in January, to tell me that she had randomly met Terrell Cole, Glimpse of Gourmet resident-chef, out at Sullivan’s Steakhouse. They initially talked about the magazine, and then started brainstorming on ideas about how to bring different content to the community at large. Not only did they spark a connection via the conversation, but they brought in pieces of their own circles to add layers of dimension to their conversation. “Oh hey, you know so-and-so?” “So do I!” “Yes, he would be a great supporter of this idea.” The phone call from Dana was excited and filled with ideas that M&L is likely to share with you further in the future.

Starting a magazine has created connections beyond my wildest expectations. Through our discussions with writers, photographers, features, and advertisers, I personally have learned more about the ethos of this town and its wonderful contributors more than if I had stayed in corporate America. Almost daily, M&L receives messages with comments or personal anecdotes about what we have published. Each of our stories are indeed meant to serve as sparks for you to find your own truth and fan a flame.

Certainly, this issue’s central theme is exactly that.

Although our cover and some articles are definitely a nod to Valentine’s Day, we wanted to focus on various types of connections and how to cultivate them. In this issue, we explore micro weddings for those who want intimacy and a focus on close family and friends, luxe weddings for those who want grandness and to bring together a large group, creating connections with new people in new situations,

© Emily Cummings

Ashley South enriching professional connections via the Career & Networking Center, finding connections via a book club at the Naperville Public Library, and the story of the Naperville resident who is facilitating connections both fleeting and enduring on a daily basis. We also sprinkled in some dazzling jewelry for February’s well-known holiday celebrating our love connections.

We hope this issue inspires you to further connect. How do fan your connection sparks?

Ideas / ad inquires may be sent to: CEO@MainLuxe.com

Dine

MicroWeddings

By JD Hollyfield and Chris Wichmann

C

ongratulations! You just got engaged over the holidays. Does the thought of planning a big extravaganza exhaust you? More and more, couples are embracing small, intimate affairs, also known as micro weddings.

By industry definition, a micro wedding is 50 or fewer guests. It rose in popularity due to COVID-19, but it also has become a wedding of choice for budget reasons or because people just want to enjoy themselves with their closest loved ones.

A micro wedding is also an opportunity to move from the surf and turf norm in a large ballroom and enjoy a personalized, fine dining experience with close friends and family. Hosts and food lovers are being enticed by private chef experiences to provide a memorable experience on their wedding day. (Can you remember what you ate at the last wedding you went to? Probably not.) Imagine a mouthwatering sous vide filet served at your dining room table or in your backyard.

The alluring aroma of herbs de Provence spice filling your senses as you share in a conversation with friends and family, praising the choice of Spanish Garnacha wine that complements the beautifully seared steak.

Are you hungry yet? (Pavlov should be documenting my current response.)

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Local chef, Tom Moskos, is

a world-renowned culinary mastermind. He has held executive chef positions in upscale hotels and has served his delectable dishes to distinguished guests, including politicians and President George Bush, Sr. Chef Tom can bring his expertise in the kitchen and love of cooking to your event. His successful culinary

Warehouse 109

© Eight Hands

business, The Art of Good Eating, will make your wedding both marvelous and intimate. This is not just Tom coming to the kitchen. His business is full service: event coordinators, bartenders, bussers, butler-style service, family-style service, live food stations, along with rental services such as glasses, dinnerware, seating, and linens.

Main & Luxe had the pleasure of speaking with Chef Tom, not only about the mouthwatering selections on his menu but also about bringing people together over a lavish spread. “My

Main & Luxe, February 2022

goal is to provide a unique experience. I want my clients to enjoy delicious, gourmet, and fully customized cuisines that serve as a catalyst for conversation, sharing, and celebration,” he explains.

Customized is the key word here, and his artful menus will complement you as the star attraction. Perhaps check out his self-published cookbook, The Art of Good Eating, for inspiration!

Okay, so for your intimate event with a distinguished chef, the venue and tables will be important décor aspects. Qiana Turner, owner and chief event planner at Madison Elyse Events, loves planning outdoor weddings at someone’s home. She tells us, “Micro weddings can be just as fabulous as big 300-guest weddings. You want to know the secret???

It’s in the decor baby!”

Beautifully lined garden chairs, huge pots of flowers, lush green grass, decorative arches adorned with colorful, fragrant blooms and romantic draping are a few of her suggestions.

Sous vide filet

While planning your outdoor wedding, keep in mind the elements…what if it rains? “Do not fret! Adding a beautiful glass top tent or a peaked tip tent with gorgeous chandeliers for lighting can elevate your outdoor wedding to another level,” says Qiana.

If you don’t want the event at home, two suggestions where you can bring your private chef are Warehouse 109 in Plainfield and Solemn Oath Brewery in Naperville.

Warehouse 109 has indoor and outdoor event options, and it features an antique motorcycle gallery against one wall, a vintage red leather bar that looks like the “Rat Pack” would hang out at, white lights everywhere, and a vintage Airstream trailer converted into an outdoor lounge.

Solemn Oath is not in the wedding business, but they will offer the best locally made craft brews to complement the gourmet meal. It is an industrialstyle space with seating

Courtesy of JD Hollyfield

“

“

Micro weddings can be just as fabulous as big 300-guest weddings.

indoors and out. It is a blank slate for you to create your own beautifully curated experience. The beer garden glows with Edison string lights, six wooden teepees along the sides for small groups, and then plenty of space for additional tables in the center. Think gourmet food, unique beers, candlelight, live music!

Food has a transformative power to make us happy, connect friends and strangers, and to thrill foodies. When you think about your celebration, we encourage you to put a delicious meal at the center of it.

David and Cherise's Outdoor Wedding, Executed by Madison Elyse Events

© Timothy Whaley and Associates

© Factor

Warehouse 109

© Eight Hands

Embrace the love of good food and create memories with your select number of guests.

Enjoy these new upscale hospitality concepts that offer a more intimate eating and bonding experience with the important people in your life.

So, congratulations from all of us at Main & Luxe! With the changing times, more couples are choosing to go the simpler route and embracing the micro-wedding concept, which brings family and friends together in a smaller affair. Less work and more enjoyment? Sounds perfect to me!

© JD Hollyfield

Warehouse 109

© Eight Hands

Author: JD Hollyfield JD is a USA Today best-selling author with over 60K reviews on Goodreads. Her father was Naperville’s Director of City Planning in the 70s. She lives in Plainfield. She has a BA in Advertising from Western Illinois University and an Event Planning Certification from Harper College.

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www.tinkerboutique.shop LOCATION | 227 South Main Street, Naperville IL 60540 HOURS | Mon: Closed | Tue-Sat: 10am-6pm | Sun: 11am-5pm

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Issue 1 | October 2021

Issue 2 | November 2021

Issue 3 | December 2021

Community

Make New Friends T

wo years ago, we all learned a new vocabulary word, social distancing.

Many friendships were put on the back burner as people attempted to “maintain a distance of six feet or more.” Social media feeds dried up. Entertaining photos of groups of friends or family and exotic places were replaced with snarky memes and snapshots of all things happening inside our households.

Having drinks with friends or even an office party over Zoom became a thing. However, a couple years later, things have slowly changed. So, like Punxsutawney Phil, we think February is the perfect time to poke your head out and start connecting again.

So many of us miss the plentiful and easy to come by personal interactions.

Zoom calls and texting just don’t have the same effect as the in-person ones.

Thankfully, these virtual experiences have kept us all present in each other’s lives, but we are soooooo over them! I long for the interactions where we put down our phones, get off our couches, and wear something other than yoga pants. We are probably a bit out of practice with face-to-face interactions though.

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Now, as the world starts to come back to life, you might find yourself asking, how do I rekindle friendships? How do I make new friendships? I’ll be the first to admit that I find making new friends difficult. It’s nerve-wracking and awkward. You ask questions to find out if your own interests gel or mesh with your new friend’s. For those of us with kids, we start with that, but a person without kids may not find a deep connection with a busy mom.

(See the Profile Section on page 30 for how to connect with other moms.) An avid book reader may not find their best friend in someone that enjoys the fast-paced entertainment scene. Even if intimidating, finding our way back to inMain & Luxe, February 2022

person relationships is important and vital for our mental health.

We thought about what it takes to start anew with friendships. Since we feel like kids again in that sense. We searched locally for a mental health professional to help guide us through this process and ended up learning quite a lot from one that typically counsels children.

That could work for us. Yes. Go on…

Kirsten Book, PMHNP, FNP-BC, is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in her own practice. She works with people of all ages, but her focus is on ages 10 to 18. She tells us that her patients are learning more about interacting outside of their home and testing boundaries for reactions. “I advise people to get out of their comfort zone and literally get out of the house.

Go up to a person and say ‛hi.’ You have to open yourself up and be mentally prepared for them to say no and think through how you will handle it.”

Kirsten Book, PMHNP, FNP-BC

© Latrice Murphy

Kirsten also adds that as human beings, we thrive on connection with others.

We are not designed to be alone for long stretches of time. Through connections, we learn trust and intimacy. Having a healthy relationship with someone can bring joy, as well as conflict, that we all learn how to deal with. “Connections

“

I advise people to get out of their comfort zone and literally get out of the house.

“

By JD Hollyfield

make you feel validated, happier, provide health benefits, and could help your longevity. It has been proven, that social connection can help lower anxiety and depression and can help us regulate our emotions. We have been living in a time of true disconnection. While technology has a use to help us with basic communication to survive, the computer and phone screens disconnect us from ourselves and others. Connection is not a want or a desire, but a basic need to survive. Technology has taken over the job of connecting others, when, nothing can replace true in-person connection.”

Christy Hughes, a local mom and business owner of Christy Lee Photography, tells us about her own approach. She advises people to look if there is a neighborhood, school, or mom’s group that you could join and if there is not one, think of starting one.

“When we moved to our new residence in Naperville, my neighborhood had a mom’s group that met once a week. This was where I met a lot of friends before my children had even started elementary school. My husband was also then able to meet other dads and get a lot of great advice on what sports to sign our three boys up for.”

She tells us that she works on putting herself out there in every situation. She uses her children’s activities to help. “I have three boys. All of them are in sports in Naperville, and I have met so many

Christy Hughes and friends made through her son’s school, The Lantern

new and amazing moms and families through each of the teams that they have been on.” In effect, she is doing exactly what Kirsten recommends. Christy is open to new interactions, is intentional about leaving her house, and finds new connections through varied interactions.

Kirsten and Christy individually remind us that it can take a while to feel normal again but to ease your way back into familiar things you used to do and enjoy.

Friendships are beneficial to our mental and emotional health. Our community is steeped in varied things to do, so take a page from your son’s or daughter’s book and keep an open mind when you meet someone. Just like when you were on the playground, it’s normal to be nervous or awkward.

Kirsten Book, PMHNP, FNP-BC, offers some ideas to help you: • Join a new club, or try out a group activity with those who have similar interests • Reach out to an old friend you’ve lost touch with • Volunteer for a cause you care about • Eat lunch in a public place, bring your work to a coffee shop instead of © Cathy Hughes working from home If you are in need of assistance, the Crisis • Introduce yourself to Hotline for DuPage County is 630-627your neighbors 1700. There is a qualified mental health • Ask someone for help professional a phone call away 24 hours when you need it a day/7 days week.

• Offer to help someone who needs it • Perform a random act of kindness

Ashley and friends made in her neighborhood, Hugo’s

© Ashley South

Courtesy of JD Hollyfield

JD and friends made through her son’s sports

© JD Hollyfield

Author: JD Hollyfield JD is a USA Today best-selling author with over 60K reviews on Goodreads. Her father was Naperville’s Director of City Planning in the 70s. She lives in Plainfield. She has a BA in Advertising from Western Illinois University and an Event Planning Certification from Harper College.

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Curated Splurge

Sparkle

By Samar Istanbouli

Costello Jewelry

33 W Jefferson Avenue

Give to others

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James & Sons - Also on the cover 110 S Washington Street

Give to yourself

Naperville Jewelers 120 Water Street

Author: Samar Istanbouli Samar is a Naperville lifestylist and social butterfly.

She resides in the Saybrook neighborhood.

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Luxe Life

Lavish Nuptials

By Ashley South

N

ewly engaged and planning a wedding?

Congratulations! We are thrilled for you and went on the hunt for a luxe location for you and your 200 guests.

Located on a four-acre historic property just outside Naperville, The Farmhouse has plenty of indoor and outdoor space, along with a sprawling layout. On the property, is the oldest house in Plainfield, called the Little House, which dates to the 1840s, and can be used as a space for the bar and to display the wedding cake.

The main house is from the 1850s and serves as the front entrance to the newly built venue space behind it. Both homes were built of limestone and their updates balance the historical significance of the structures. The owners, Glen and Lisa Delerosa, had a personal hand in the site’s renovation including the stylish lighting, one-of-akind reclaimed pieces, and garden design. If “Midwestern Elegance” is a thing, The Farmhouse epitomes it.

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Because a large affair requires a lot of planning, we reached out to Ashley Massat and Hailey Bayer, the event coordinators for the space.

They sat down with us in the middle of an already hectic schedule to talk about the space and how it awes them daily. Both event planners have been with the space since the second half of 2021.

Since that time and because of the property’s unique space, The Farmhouse has been operating at full capacity. As of

this writing, they are booked Fridays through Sundays from April 2022 through November 2023.

The Farmhouse encompasses 20,000 square feet of entertaining space: 10,000 of that is outside and the main building is 7,000 square feet.

The lush garden is filled with

The Farmhouse, Plainfield

annuals, perennials, newer trees, and some that look as old as the farmhouses. There are also eight patios, four outdoor fireplaces, and two open-air ceremony sites. Each reservation is for the full day.

You can start your day with your bridesmaids and have breakfast in the bridal suite at 9:00 am. And, men are not left out, as the designated Groom Suite is the entire upstairs of the original farmhouse. Cater lunch at noon while you take your time to get ready and have one final dance party with your sister and college best friends. And say “I do” with everyone you care about watching while the sun sets through the large windows.

Ashley and Hailey describe the space as your canvas to

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paint. The floors are 200-yearold reclaimed barn wood from seven different barns across the country; glinting crystal chandeliers hang from the ceilings; and custom woodwork provides nooks to steal a post-worthy selfie of you enjoying your day. You are provided with traditional round tables or custom 10’

© Rachel Watson

farm tables made by the Delarosas themselves. Clear chiavari chairs sparkle when light hits them through the expansive windows. After that, you (or you and your event planner) consider the details to make your day unique to your vision.

You can bring in antique glassware and mercury glass vases for the centerpieces.

All decorations and flowers are your choosing. Catering recommendations are available via a vendor list, or you could delight your guests with a series of food trucks! The venue is BYOB which means you can bring in top liquor without the hefty price tag. (A steady stream of Veuve Clicquot Bellini’s for the win!) Do you want to hire an

Irish musician to sing during cocktail hour? We are doing a jig! Pet owners: you are not excluded. The Farmhouse is pet-friendly. They have had weddings with dogs, horses, and even a turtle. Hailey tells us, “When the couple brings in their pets, they are a part of their day just like any other guest. I loved watching one bride already at the altar when her dog came in, and he let out this little bark that made all the guests laugh.” Make your day special and exactly as you want it!

For the planners, the best days they have is when the bride walks up with tears in her eyes and just says thank you and that this is the best day of her life. When thinking about the perfect space for your guests that allows you to create the wedding of your dreams in a huge space, look no further.

The little details will thrill you and your guests. The Farmhouse is your spot for the best of the new way to host a large event.

The Farmhouse 12729 S Naperville Road Plainfield thefarmhouseplainfield.com

© Eight Hands

200-year-old floors, The Farmhouse

© Kate Kaplan

© Eight Hands

© Eight Hands

Glimpse of Gourmet

By Terrell Cole

© Katie Braga

Author: Chef Terrell Cole Owner, Darkhorse Catering in Naperville Chef Terrell brings his decades of experience to a new feature exclusively for Main & Luxe Magazine.

He is known for his range and ability to manage effortlessly.

He lives Downtown.

Creative twist on a classic. The best of both worlds for you to savor. Great blends of seasonal flavors. Enjoy!

Does this look tasty to you?

This is just a glimpse! Head to Chef’s page to get the recipe.

Gouda-crusted Surf ‘n Turf

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© Michael A. Hubatch

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At the Library

Fellowship via a Book R

ead more books is a common New Year’s resolution. However, once the novelty of a fresh new year wears off (like maybe about February!), many people struggle to make good on their admirable intentions. To keep yourself accountable all year long, and perhaps knock off a couple resolutions at once (e.g., spend more time with friends, pick up a new hobby, meet new people), the Naperville Public Library offers various book clubs for adults and children.

What’s your choice? Science fiction? Culinary arts? New and popular releases? The Naperville Public Library has something for everyone.

Out of this World Book Club A science fiction/fantasy book club that meets on the first Wednesday each month virtually; otherwise, the group met at Nichols Library pre-pandemic. The books are selected by the library leader with the input of the attendees. In February, the group will read and discuss The Bird King by G. Willow Wilson. Past titles include Dark Matter by Blake Crouch and Sabriel by Garth Nix. The leader is Mary Costello: mcostello@naperville-lib.org

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Criminal Spines A mystery, thriller, suspense, and true crime book club that meets on the second Thursday of the month virtually; otherwise, the group met at the Naper Blvd Library pre-pandemic. It is

led by a library staff member, and the group votes on the titles they read. In February, the group will read and discuss Confident Women: Swindlers, Grifters, and Shapeshifters of the Feminine Persuasion by Tori Telfer. Past titles include Lightseekers by Femi Kayode and The Cold Dish by Craig Johnson. The leader is in transition at this time.

Readers’ Rendezvous Daytime Book Club Includes all genres of books, and the library leader chooses the books. This club meets on the second Thursday of the month virtually; otherwise, the group met at Nichols Library pre-pandemic. In February, the group will read and discuss A Tapestry of Light by Kimberly Duffy.

Past titles include West with Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge and Actress by Anne Enright.

The leader is Shannon McGregor: smcgregor@ naperville-lib.org Reader’s Night Out This club met at Quigley’s Pub in downtown Naperville before the pandemic. Right now, meetings are held virtually on Zoom on the first Monday of the month. Each attendee discusses a book that he or she has read and wants to share with others.

The leader of the book club takes notes and then sends the notes to the group with the titles and synopsis of the books discussed. The leader is Christi Hawn: chawn@ naperville-lib.org

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Readers’ Choice Book Club The group chooses the titles and tries to select from newer, more popular books. The club meets on the third Wednesday of the month virtually; otherwise, the group met at the 95th Street Library pre-pandemic.

It is led by a library staff member. In February, the group will read and discuss The One Hundred Years of Lenni and Margot: A Novel

by Marianne Cronin. Past titles include Funny in Farsi: A Memoir of Growing Up Iranian in America by Firoozeh Dumas and The Mountains Sing by Phan Nguyn. The leader is Christy Palangattil: cpalangattil@ naperville-lib.org

Christy Palangattil

© Katie Braga

“

The Naperville Public Library offers various book clubs for adults and children.

“

By Chris Wichmann

On the Table: A Culinary Book Club This group is for home cooks who enjoy reading and talking about food. It meets six times a year (currently virtually) and each meeting covers a different theme.

Participants choose any cookbook from the library, make a recipe at home that fits the theme, and then share their recipes, thoughts, and experiences with fellow cooks. The next meeting is in March where the theme is pies. Past themes have been appetizers, casseroles, and Tex-Mex. It is moderated by a library staff member from the 95th Street Library. The leader is Sarah Marshall: smarshall@naperville-lib.org Picture Book Club Children in preschool through 2nd grade, along with their caregivers, read and discuss books in which illustrations and words work together to tell a story.

This is a new book club that meets on the first Thursday of the month at the 95th Street Library. In February, the group will read I Dream of Popo by Livia Blackburne, Yes & No by Elisha Cooper,

and Milo Imagines the World

by Matt De Aa Peña. Past titles include Eyes that Kiss in the Corners by Joanna Ho and The Very Impatient Caterpillar by Ross Burach.

The leader is Natalie Roth: nroth@naperville-lib.org

Book & Fun Club Children in 3rd–6th grades, along with their caregivers, read and discuss engaging fiction books. The club meets on the third Thursday of the month at Nichols Library.

In February, the group will read and discuss Pony by R. J. Palacio. Past titles include A Dragon’s Guide to the Care and Feeding of Humans by Laurence Yep & Joanne Ryder and A Tale Dark & Grimm by Adam Gidwitz. The leader is Nicole Lawton: nlawton@ naperville-lib.org Great Decisions Discussion Group Sponsored by the Foreign Policy Association and the Naperville branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW).

Great Decisions is America’s largest discussion program on world affairs. The program involves reading the Great Decisions Briefing Book and meeting to discuss on Thursday evenings. 2022 topics include Changing Demographics, Outer Space, Climate Change, Russia & the United States, Myanmar & ASEAN, and Biden’s Agenda.

The library helps administer the program to Naperville residents, but does not provide staff to lead the discussion. Naperville AAUW contact is Becky Glimco: beckyglimco@aol.com

Great Books Discussion Group A national organization that encourages people to read.

Group members meet on the third or fourth Tuesday of the month at the Naper Blvd Library. In February, the group will read and discuss “The City of God” by Saint Augustine. Previous titles include “Caesar and Cleopatra” by George Bernard Shaw and “Utilitarianism” by John Stuart Mill. The library helps administer the program to Naperville residents, but does not provide staff to lead this discussion. More information can be found at www.greatbooks.org/bookgroups

Neighbors Together Book Discussion A group of six area libraries partnering with Literacy DuPage to discuss books related to immigration in America. In February, the Naperville Library will host a virtual discussion of Conditional Citizens: On Belonging in America by Laila Lalami. More information can be found at www.ippl.info/14community/2172-neighborstogether In all, the Library offers nine adult book clubs and two children’s book clubs with assorted opportunities for patrons to stretch both their minds and social circles. For the clubs led by a library staff member, prepared questions are shared at the meetings, but the discussions may also direct the flow.

naperville-lib.org/programs/ book-discussion-groups

Natalie Roth

© Katie Braga

Sarah Marshall

© Katie Braga

Courtesy of Chris Wichmann

Author: Christina Wichmann Our senior editor. Chris is a writer, editor, and project director during the day, and our seamstress by night. She carefully unstitches misplaced words or paragraphs and brings them back together in ways much better than we could have hoped.

She lives near Knoch Knolls Park.

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Give Back

Career Networking

By Ashley South

ince 2020, things are different.

We’ve started seeing The Great Resignation in full swing. People are looking at their lives afresh—personal and professional. The Career & Networking Center with Kim White is Naperville’s answer to helping with career transitions and providing needed professional services to individuals and businesses.

Kim White is a wife, mother, community contributor, and the executive director of the nonprofit. If all of those things didn’t keep her busy enough, she is also President-elect of the Rotary Club of Naperville. Kim comes from a large family in Kansas City, Missouri. She and her husband, Benny White, met in high school. When Benny was accepted into West Point and left for New York, Kim decided to stay close to her family and attend college locally. After his graduation, they married. Kim’s life forever changed after saying: “I do.”

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After marriage and through her husband’s service, Kim and Benny moved to Germany. There, the newlyweds found themselves in a completely different environment both in location and daily life. “When you go oversees so young, you have to figure out how to navigate: as a couple, as expats, and as individuals.” Kim’s path was chosen by her desire to support her husband as he continued his career in the military. This life took them all over the world for over three decades.

Kim gained a global perspective and found herself enjoying working with people from all backgrounds and cultures. With each move, Kim had to make new connections. Over the years, the couple developed a core group of about twenty G.I.s and their spouses.

Their shared life experience created a bond and connection they still have over a quarter century later.

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In 2005, Kim and Benny moved to Naperville when Benny became a professor of Military Science at Wheaton College (he is now one of Naperville’s City Council members).

That same year, Kim joined the Career & Networking Center, which was named the Community Career Center at the time. The theme of transition that

You must be intentional about staying connected with people who have been part of your life journey - both professionally and personally.

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S

has underscored all of Kim’s adult life made the job ideal for her. She brought her heart for connections and a global perspective of empathy to help people with their professional goals. At the same time, she was also volunteering to help those coming out of the military to navigate the transition back to civilian life. Kim told us she is constantly looking for solutions to problems she sees and brings those ideas into her daily actions.

The Career & Networking Center provides resources to help people in their career search. They provide classes on resume writing, networking, setting priorities, creating a LinkedIn profile, personal branding, career exploration, and interview style. The organization is still light on staff and relies heavily on volunteer coaches that will meet 1:1 to help clients in each of the aforementioned areas. Also, the Center brings in presenters to do

workshops. A recent one was about how to tweak your resume to add key words to be picked up by the software that screens each resume. People are able to practice their elevator pitch in networking groups. The Center also has an accountability group that provides homework to would-be job seekers. Kim tells us that people who participate in the accountability group tend to secure a job sooner. Annual membership is $100, which includes the 1:1 with a coach and access to the Job Search Work Team.

The Center also provides outplacement services to companies that are downsizing. They structure workshops around what is next and how the Center can ease the transition into something new. To further support businesses, the Center recently began working with employers to provide soft skills training for their employees: working and collaborating with teammates, time management, and customer service.

In 2010, the Board approached Kim to become the Executive Director.

Everyone at the Center recognized her dedication and passion for people in

Kim White, Executive Director, Career & Networking Center

Courtesy of Kim White

all stages of their career. In 2019, the Community Career Center changed its name to Career & Networking Center, as Kim explained at the time: “Networking is important in our professional and personal lives, therefore we wanted to include it in our name as we continue to provide a place for individuals to connect with others while receiving support in job search and career development.” Today the Center serves over a thousand people annually.

Dancing with Celebrities, C & NC Annual Fundraiser

Courtesy of NCTV17

Kim says you must be intentional about staying connected with people who have been part of your life journey.

Identify mentors early on, both professionally and personally. Stay connected to the rock stars you work with—those movers and shakers will help you as you continue your path. Be a part of associations in your industry or community. Look at alumni groups.

Diversify your network. Through networking and cultivating connections you gain awareness, knowledge, and perspective. “At the end of the day, I feel like I’ve done a lot to help people. Not a day goes by that we have not helped someone to achieve success.”

Courtesy of NCTV17

The Career & Networking Center is our featured 501(c)(3) for February, please consider donating, volunteering, or connecting your company with Kim. The Career & Networking Center careernetworkingcenter.org Courtesy of NCTV17

Main & Luxe, February 2022

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Live Here

Embellishments

By Stephanie Anderson

S

prucing up your child’s rooms can be one of the most fun and personal projects to undertake in your home. As a designer, taking on these kinds of projects for clients is also an honor as the inspirationto-completion process allows me the chance to get to know and connect with the whole family.

Perhaps most enticing, even dramatic changes can be achieved with relative ease and cost.

One theme I have utilized in my own home is incorporating memories of my travels and experiences.

Especially in current times, drawing on memories of a favorite trip abroad or Disney vacation can recreate an air of happier, stress-free times. Wherever your travels have taken you, reliving one of your favorite family experiences through tasteful design elements can create a lasting transformation enjoyed by the kids and parents.

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For me and my family, one of our favorite places in the world is Paris. (I know I am not unique in my affinity for the City of Lights!) Our trips may be a be a bit different than the average traveler, as our days are often spent simply wandering the streets and letting our next adventure come to us. For me, these ‘walkabouts’ are experiences in and of themselves, as I have the opportunity to admire the

amazing combinations of architectural symmetry complemented by unique details. In Paris, buildings can be similar in form, but set apart from the rest via a colorful door or an ornate window as a small statement piece. So, when decorating my daughter’s room, I knew exactly from where to pull my inspiration!

Ceiling, Painted Blue, Embellished with Gold Stars

For her room, my goal was to accomplish a playful yet sophisticated look she could love now, but also one that could grow with her. Beginning with some of her favorite things— the ‘majestique’ of the Ferris wheel, the rainbow arrangement of the tulips in the Jardin des Tuileries, the ‘princess castle’ designs of the countryside chateaus, and of course, the iconic Eiffel Tower—all served as the initial seeds of creativity.

From there, it was simply a matter of blending our ‘wonders’ together: the deep jewel tones of a dark teal door, which transformed her ceiling into the color of a nighttime Parisian sky. The classic

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white walls of a timeless museum which, in my daughter’s room, provided a blank slate to adorn with paintings and photographs of my daughter’s favorite things. The dramatic, thick molding of our rented Parisian apartment were essentially a copy-andpaste operation into the bedroom. Meanwhile, the pewter roofs atop the

enjoy regardless of whose room it is in the house. And you are sure to create some new and lasting memories in the process!

SA Interiors www.sainteriors.com

© Hannah Graver

Parisian buildings were incorporated via a pewter Eiffel Tower, the gold accents observed in so many classic restaurants were incorporated via gold picture frames and other small adornments, and the pink peonies in the Jardin du Luxembourg were incorporated via a family heirloom of pink pearls draped over a vase. All came together to provide a personal touch and life to the room.

Reach back into your memories of past travels; seek inspiration from your own experiences and get your family involved in the design process. Together, you can create a fun and rewarding experience in a space that everyone can

ParisInspired

© Hannah Graver

Courtesy of Stephanie Anderson

M&L Live Here Author: Stephanie Anderson, owner of SA Interiors Stephanie is a Naperville designer with a BFA in Interior design. She enjoys collaborating with clients, hearing their stories, and discovering their aspirations so a space can be designed that is not only timeless and functional but unique to her clients.

Authentic, hand crafted French macarons in a variety of unique flavors. Our macarons are gluten free by nature.

Shop online or in-store in South Naperville. Gift our macarons with our nationwide shipping.

We are a small, Naperville family-owned business. Our chef is a world renowned pastry chef from France.

We offer exquisite pastries items that you can only find here in Naperville.

www. alafolieco.com 2728 Forgue Drive, Unit 108, Naperville, IL 60564

The Settlement

Debate Society S

afely preserved in the collections at Naper Settlement await thousands of artifacts, documents, and photographs ready to tell stories of the past. One such item is the 1836 journal of the proceedings of the Naperville Debating Society, a Lyceum formed in the earliest years of Naperville. In exploring this fascinating piece of history, what relevant lessons can be learned for today?

The American Lyceum movement, named in honor of the place Aristotle lectured students in Greece, began in Vermont in the 1820s and spread to over 3,000 chapters by 1834.

Undoubtedly, newcomers to Illinois at this time arrived intending to replicate Lyceums from the east in their new communities.

Lyceums formed as voluntary associations of individuals gathering regularly (usually weekly) to share knowledge through discussions and lectures or engage in civil discourse through debates or conversation.

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The goals of a Lyceum included the advancement of learning and the improvement of conversation. Many Lyceums would eventually host traveling speakers and evolve by the later 19th century into the Chautauqua movement.

Prohibited from most public speaking opportunities in the early 1800s, women were generally excluded from Lyceums. However, speakers like Susan B. Anthony were occasionally invited to lecture

as subject matter experts.

The women’s movement that began in 1848 also produced their own clubs and societies, many of which had similar goals to Lyceums including ongoing education, a social component, and advocacy for specific causes.

manners and customs with the manners and customs with whom he associates… so by associating with his fellow men for the purpose of intellectual improvement and comparing his ideas with theirs and reasoning, there from, the mind is enabled

“

The goals of a Lyceum included the advancement of learning and the improvement of conversation.

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By Jeanne Schultz Angel

were asked to contribute occasional essays to be read to the Lyceum members.

Page from the Lyceum

Naperville’s Lyceum specifically formed for the “mutual improvement in science, learning, and public speaking.” Acknowledging the benefits of civil discourse as a cornerstone of improving American society, the Lyceum in Naperville set out to offer a place, time, and topic for debate and discussion, allowing for at least two perspectives on any given question and recording the names of the participants in agreement with each viewpoint.

The 1836 preamble stated: As man is a social being, and formed for the society of his fellow man, and as it is by association and comparing himself his

Main & Luxe, February 2022

Courtesy of Naper Settlement

to take a more general and correct view of matters and questions presented for its decision than it otherwise would and is the better enabled to imbibe truth and reject error. -Naperville Lyceum

The Lyceum members followed strict rules laid out in the constitution of the Society including the civility of responses and the respectful nature of formal debates. Membership was likely exclusive as the group included just fifteen men, most of whom were leaders in the newly established community. No women were recorded as members of the Naperville Lyceum; however, women and students

One of the more fascinating aspects of the Lyceum is the variety of questions debated at the meetings. Small matters were rarely discussed as members challenged themselves over complex, philosophical ideologies, and thought-provoking debates: “Are the political publications of the present day more beneficial than injurious to community?”

“Are the intellectual faculties of the male susceptible of a higher degree of improvement than those of the female?”

“Was the displacing of the aborigines right?”

“Are the principles advocated by the Whig-party at the present day, the same as those advocated by the Whigs of 1776?”

Some of the questions posed centered around human

rights and ethical topics that may shock people today.

Others are vaguely similar to today’s conversations, reminding us that there are unanswerable questions throughout human history.

When taken in context of national and local events at the time, these questions provide a keen insight into the public conversations of the day and remind us that residents of Naperville in the 1830s worried, planned, and considered the future just as we do today.

Naper Settlement offers visitors a chance to learn more about the Lyceum and practice the art of the debate at the updated permanent exhibit “Building Naperville: Tallgrass Prairie to Today” opening this month. In addition, programming centered around civil discourse and public conversations will begin this summer. Watch out for a new-style Lyceum for the 21st century!

Acquired by the Naperville Heritage Society in 2006, The Proceedings of the Naperville Lyceum, a journal of weekly meetings held by Naperville’s earliest citizen’s from 1836 to 1843, is available online.

In cooperation with the Naperville Public Library, the manuscript is available electronically through the Illinois Digital Archives at www.idaillinois.org. Included in the roster are recognizable

The proceedings of the Naperville Lyceum,1838

Courtesy of Naper Settlement

citizens such as Naperville’s founder Joseph Naper and early pioneers Stephen Scott, Lewis Ellsworth, E.G. Wright, and Nelson Murray.

Naper Settlement 523 S Webster napersettlement.org

Courtesy of Naper Settlement

Joseph Naper, Lyceum Member

Naper Settlement

M&L The Settlement Author: Jeanne Schultz Angel is the Director of Learning Experiences & Historical Resources for Naper Settlement and an Illinois Humanities Road Scholar. Angel is also the current President of the Illinois Association of Museums and the Coalition of State Museum Associations Foundation.

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www.katiebragaphotography.com 630-742-6972

Profile

Branching Out D

r. Cathy Subber describes herself as a woman who strives to create a better version of herself at every opportunity. Despite challenges and new situations, Cathy embraces what the world puts in front of her and turns it into something that could help someone else. “The core of who I am is a person who takes in the world in a way where I will never stop looking for love, gratitude, and abundance no matter what happens.” This outlook, coupled with her seemingly endless drive, power The Branch Moms Community.

Roots Cathy grew up in central New Jersey and was a swimmer and diver. Despite her athletic success, she told us that she was awkward and lacked self-esteem. At 17, her skill as a diver earned her a spot at a training camp in Florida that taught her new dives.

On the last day of the camp, she attempted the hardest dive she learned that week.

Unfortunately, she landed flat on her back, which ended her diving career and created a back issue that was sometimes debilitating.

Because of a series of failed treatments, Cathy was desperate to try anything.

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When she was 18, someone suggested Cathy visit a chiropractor.

After her first visit, she noticed a significant change. She began feeling better, and her daily headaches also went away.

Because of her experience,

she found a new passion and decided to go into the field to help others. Her own chiropractor graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic. Admiring his skill, Cathy moved to Iowa to attend that same college.

Iowa forged Cathy’s confidence. She shared, “I

Dr. Cathy Subber, Owner of The Branch Moms Community

sat in the auditorium on the first day. No one knew me.

I could be anyone. I took the opportunity to reinvent myself. I faked that I was outgoing. I faked having confidence.” Even though her heart was pounding with every new interaction, she kept up the ruse. That approach made her friends quickly, and she simply decided to stay in the role as a confident, happy, and outgoing person. She tells us with a laugh that she springboarded into a different version of herself. (Okay, that is pretty funny!)

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The core of who I am is a person who takes in the world in a way where I will never stop looking for love, gratitude, and abundance no matter what happens.

© Cathy Subber

Sapling After graduation, Cathy began work for a doctor in the Quad cities. One of her patients mentioned that his brother was selling a practice in Naperville and asked if she might be interested.

She had actually just been to Naperville for a seminar and thought, “that place is pretty cool!” She decided to check out the prospect and made an offer within a few hours of seeing it. A full decade after working and living in Naperville, once again happenstance changed Cathy’s life trajectory.

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By Ashley South

A woman named Kelli Thompson moved here from Florida and became a patient.

When Cathy had a parttime position open up, Kelli applied for it. Cathy liked her energy and hired her. Kelli was six months pregnant and excited about her impending arrival. She and Cathy talked about her baby shower list. But Kelli was more interested in knowing which mommy-and-me classes were best, what doula to hire, and which series of bottles worked for other moms, and which did not. Kelli was unable to find the advice and community she sought through online searches.

Facebook was largely still a college networking tool. One day, Kelli remarked to Cathy that she kept dreaming of starting a community for moms. Cathy supported Kelli in her dream, offering help in creating a logo, business cards, and a website.

Branch The group started as the Naperville Moms Network.

In one month, the website had 100 mom members, achieved mostly through Kelli’s grass roots efforts of

handing out cards wherever she saw local moms. (Target was a 2nd home to her as it is for many of us.) In one year, the site had over 1,000 mom members. Two years later, Kelli’s family was transferred to Texas, and they would not be coming back.

There was no question.

Cathy was the natural successor. She had attended the luncheons, knew all of the active mom members, and provided funding when needed as a business sponsor.

Cathy’s boys were 8 and 7, and she personally loved the space the community had created for moms to connect.

She didn’t want it to go away.

Cathy rebranded the group as The Branch, and it has two taglines: “You are always invited,” and “You are never alone.”

Orchard The Branch’s taglines come out of Cathy’s adult reflections on her teen years and the loneliness she sometimes felt. She now has the capability and mindset to make connections, and she strives to create an uplifting, safe space for local moms to ask questions. The group’s rules stipulate that the community remain a positive one. Posts are approved and moderated in accordance with their guidelines, and no direct advertising is allowed.

Moms may ask for simple pediatrician referrals or help finding a hard to replace toy, or they may delve deeper into discussions about

postpartum depression or feeling overwhelmed.

Cathy’s recommendation on how to make successful connections: Be vulnerable.

Step outside of your comfort zone. Be nervous but come anyway. So many people like you are looking for the same connections and have a desire to build new relationships. Take the first step and say hello. “I feel like I was put on this planet to help connect people, to raise my hand, and tell everyone out loud what I’ve gone through. I want to help moms and make them feel that they are not alone.” To do this, The Branch has Facebook groups, a website, a blog, a newsletter, and hosts local events like playdates, mom’s night outs, and networking luncheons.

Cathy Subber and Kelli Thompson, Grand Canyon

© Cathy Subber

Mom’s Night Out, Paramount Theater

© Cathy Subber

Today, The Branch Moms Community has over 55,000 members! When asked what she sees for the future of the group, Cathy says she is just going to water it, give it sunshine, and talk happy thoughts to it. She plans to let it grow to where it wants to grow.

thebranchmoms.com facebook.com/groups/ 324645184377854 Main & Luxe, February 2022

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