KCC Geneva Christmas Walk_112422

2022

Geneva Christmas Walk & HouseHolidayTour

Presenting

Presenting sponsor of Holiday House Tour

sponsor of Christmas Walk

From our Geneva home to yours

Holiday chill is in the air and our elves have been very busy creating a magical experience for our 55th Christmas Walk on December 2 at 6 pm in downtown Geneva.

Among the twinkling lights and fresh greenery lined streets, chestnuts will roast over open fires, carolers will fill the night air with seasonal favorites and a live nativity scene will take place. Dazzling window displays, brimming with gift ideas, invite shoppers to stroll through shops as merchants serve holiday refreshments.

Join us in this year’s TREE-lightful Celebration, where the tree, and lawn, will become aglow.

This popular and family friendly event offers visitors a very merry Friday evening full of hometown traditions as well as special treats —the arrival of Santa Lucia, Christmas cookies, the Great Tree lighting, homemade candy canes, and… Santa’s arrival.

Santa will visit children in his winter wonderland home at the Geneva Visitors Center, 10 S. Third St. Reservations are required. Beginning December 3, from 10-10:20 am, wave to Santa as he rides in the carriage down Third Street. And don’t forget to drop your letters to Santa at his post office on the courthouse lawn. Santa has promised that every boy and girl that gives him their address will receive a

personalized letter from him.

Treat yourself to the Christmas House Tour on December 2 & 3. Five charming homes, aglow with holiday decorations, will open their doors to visitors for self-guided tours. The personality of each home will illuminate when local decorators and landscapers work with homeowners to create holiday magic. A Holiday Tea held at the Congregational Church in Geneva and a special treat (quantities are limited) are included in the $38 price of the ticket.

All events are presented by the Geneva Chamber of Commerce with the support of the City of Geneva, sponsors and community volunteers. Proceeds from the house tour go to decorating the downtown for the holidays.

Let us show you our warmth, hospitality and spirt as a visit to Geneva becomes part of your holiday celebration.

For information on these events and events all through the holiday season, visit www.genevachamber. com or call 630-232-6060.

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Christmas Walk

at

The Little Traveler

404 S. Third Street, G aveler Geneva, IL

Friday, Dec. 2 from 6 9PM Complimentary Cookies, Hot Cocoa & Mulled Cider in our Atrium Café.

Glögg & Christmas Wine Tasting

Holiday Book Signings

The Christmas Walk Caper Fri., Dec. 2: 4 8PM; Sat., Dec. 3: 12 4PM Back to the Manger Friday, Dec. 2: 4 8PM

– Paula Schmidt, President Geneva Chamber of Commerce

Geneva Christmas Walk and Holiday House

There’s no place like visiting Geneva homes for the holiday

Geneva Chamber of Commerce celebrates the season with the hosting of the annual Holiday House Tour sponsored by Little Red Barn Door. The tour features five Geneva homes festively decorated for the holidays by local florists, landscapers and interior designers. Visitors drive to homes and volunteers are on hand to assist in the self-guided tour. The Geneva Chamber of Commerce hosts this event from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 2 and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec.3.

Share a cup of Christmas tea

The First Congregational Church of Geneva at Fourth and Hamilton streets, will open its doors to house tour ticket holders for hot tea, coffee and cookies. The tea will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Dec. 2 and 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 3. For more information, call 630-232-7143.

Ticket Information

House Tour tickets are $38. The ticket price includes the aforementioned Holiday Tea and a special treat from Scentcerely Yours or Kernel’s Gourmet Popcorn sponsored by Comfort Inn & Suites Geneva. Tickets go quickly, so order early. Tickets will not be for sale at homes.

• No beverage/food in the homes.

• These homes were not originally designed/built to accommodate tours. Please be patient as lines may be longer at certain homes.

• Present your ticket/program at each home.

To order tickets:

Please note final day for mailing tickets will be November 18. After that your ticket will be held to pick up at the Chamber office until Dec. 1. and Dec. 2 (9 am-4 pm) or Dec. 3 (9 am-noon) at 21 S. Third St., Geneva (Little Red Barn Door).

• You may purchase tickets by calling Geneva Chamber of Commerce at 630-232-6060 or purchase in person.

• This event may sell out.

Limited quantities are available and may be purchased at one of the locations listed below. Locations are in Geneva unless indicated. Recommend calling beforehand.

Cocoon, 212 S. Third St. – 630-232-8340

Country Naturals, 316 Campbell St. – 630-232-1172

Heinz Brothers Greenhouse, 2010 E Main St., St. Charles – 630.377.6288

Little Barn Baby, 15 S. Third St., # 110 – 331-248-0568

Little Red Barn Door, 21 S. Third St. – 630-402-0072

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, 1308 Commons Dr. – 630-208-1484

SG Geneva/Scentimental Gardens, 428 W. State St. –630-232-1303

Above locations accept cash or check.

Christmas in Geneva

HO HO HOLIDAYS!

‘Tis the season to be jolly… especially in downtown Geneva! With special events and fabulous shopping, December sparkles with holiday cheer. Dazzling window displays brim with gift ideas. Visit Santa, enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride, or grab a treat, meal or drink at one of our many award-winning establishments. With lights aglow downtown, the spirit of Christmas truly comes alive in Geneva. Visit genevachamber.com for details and an event schedule. Discover the holiday magic in Geneva!

Visiting the Christmas Walk

When: Christmas Walk: 6 to 9:30 p.m. Dec. 2. (Tree will be lit and Santa will arrive between 6-6:30 pm)

Holiday House Tour: 10 am to 8 pm Dec. 2; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 3.

Holiday Shopping: Store hours vary.

Where: Christmas Walk festivities are held in down town Geneva at South Third and James streets and on State St. Geneva’s train station is located on South Third Street just blocks from the Christmas Walk, shops and restaurants (Metra Union Pacific West Line).

The Holiday House Tour is at various locations in down town Geneva; not all homes are within walking distance of each other or of the train station.

Cost: Christmas Walk: free general admission Holiday House Tour: $38/ticket (event may sell out)

Parking: Public parking includes four parking lots and various street parking. Visit Find Us/Parking in lower right corner of genevachamber.com.

What: Christmas Walk, supported by Little Barn Baby events include visits from Santa Lucia and Santa Claus, Bob’s Candy Cane parade, the tree lighting, roasted chestnuts, carolers, shopping and many other family events.

Five distinctive homes festively decorated open their doors during the Holiday House Tour sponsored by Little Red Barn Door.

Information: Call the Geneva Chamber of Commerce at 630-232-6060 or visit http://www.genevachamber.com

• As COVID state regulations change, modifications may be made to Christmas Activities. Thank you for your pa tience as we navigate through.

Geneva Christmas Walk and Holiday House Tour 2022

Photo provided by Karen Muehlfelt of Keeping Moments Photography

All

Want for Christmas is a Geneva Gift Certificate

the holiday season approaches, you can’t go wrong with Geneva gift certificates. Easy to buy (just stop by our office on Third St. or buy online), easy to use (over 160 merchants accept them) and they never expire. Available in denominations of $5, $10 and $20. Certificates can be purchased at www.genevachamber.com, at the Chamber office, 8 S. Third St. We cannot guarantee delivery of gift certificates purchased online after December 16. For additional information, contact the Chamber at 630-232-6060.

Photo provided by Karen Muehlfelt of Keeping Moments Photography

All I Want for Christmas is …

Candy Canes

Bob Untiedt’s greatest loves, besides his family, were music and confections. So, what better way to marry these two loves than to have the Geneva High School drum and flagline lead a parade of more than 100 loyal bell ringing custom ers to present the first candy cane of the season to the Mayor right before the tree is lit. In remembrance of Bob as Geneva’s own Chocolate Man, Graham’s will continue with this long-standing tradition. Join Bob’s Candy Cane Parade at 5:45, departing from 318 Coffeehouse, and march to the stage to present the first candy cane of the season to Mayor Burns.

Watch the Graham’s Choco lates candy makers handcraft freshly made candy canes at their shop and enjoy the warm confections all evening long as a treat from Graham’s.

At 7:00, celebrate the anni versary of Chef Roby’s creation of the World’s Longest Candy Cane at All Chocolate Kitchen, 33 S. Third St. Chef Roby will present a 10-foot long smaller replica of his Guinness World Record-breaking 51-foot candy cane at his store. Chef will then break the candy cane into tiny pieces with a “magi cal” golden hammer for all guests to enjoy.

Santa Lucia

Santa Lucia, the Swed ish symbol of the season arrives with her attendants. Her attendants will circulate through the gathering bidding welcome and offering a tradi tional Swedish “wish” cookie, Swedish Pepparkakor.

Christmas Tree Lighting

After Santa Lucia’s arrival, Genevans and visitors help by counting down to the suspenseful moment of a TREE-lightful Celebration, the lighting of the Christmas Tree and Holiday Lights shortly after 6:00 p.m. The Christmas Tree and Holiday Lights are sponsored by CIBC, Carlson’s Flooring, Comcast, Lenity Fi

nancial, MetroNet, State Street Jewelers, The Cottage Geneva and Waubonsee Community College.

Santa Claus

The young and young at heart should gaze into the night sky, ho, ho, hoping to catch a glimpse of the jolly old elf arriving in Geneva. Encour aged by the crowd singing, he will make his debut just after 6 pm atop the Geneva History Museum. Santa will then be escorted to his Winter Won derland at 10 S. Third Street where he will hear the wishes of area children until 9:30 p.m. Friday. Santa’s Winter Won derland is designed by Hogan Design & Construction and sponsored by Geneva Bank & Trust with support from CASA Kane County. Santa continues visits through December 18. Please visit genevachamber. com for details.

Carols

Enjoy “Carols in the Chapel” at St. Mark’s Church at Fourth and Franklin streets from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2. Friday eve ning also includes The Merry Carolers and the Salvation Army Band around town. On Saturday, Geneva Girl Scout Troops will entertain on the Courthouse Lawn in the morn ing. Enjoy strolling carolers throughout downtown on Sat urday & Sunday sponsored by McNally’s Heating & Cooling.

Chestnuts

Chestnuts are roasted over open fires at two downtown locations Friday evening: State Street Jewelers, 230 W. State St. and Preservation, 513 S. Third St. Complimentary chestnuts are sponsored by McFONA.

Holiday Card Photos

Visit the festive photo op portunity on the south side of the Courthouse Lawn. Perfect spot to make memories all season long. Floods Royal Flush is the sponsoring of the photo opportunity.

HOLIDAY TRIMMINGS

Activities for Dec. 2-4

Santa’s Winter Wonderland

Hours: Friday, December 2, Santa will begin visits at 6:30 pm. On Saturday, December 3 and Sunday, December 4, Santa will see visitors from 10:30 am-3:30 pm. For the rest of the season he will be visiting with children Saturday the 10th and 17th and Sunday the 11th and 18th from 10:30 am-3:30 pm. Reservations will be required to visit Santa. Please visit genevachamber.com to make a reservation. Wave to Santa as he rides in the carriage down Third Street at 10 am before visiting with children Saturdays and Sundays. Santa’s Geneva visit is sponsored by Geneva Bank & Trust and co-sponsored by CASA Kane County.

Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides

Shodeen Homes, Shodeen Group and Gerald Subaru of North Aurora will spon sor free horse-drawn antique carriage rides through the historic district in Ge neva from 10:30 am-1:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 3 through Dec. 18. The rides begin and end at the corner of South Third and James streets, travel down Third Street and back around to the Courthouse.

Live Nativity

The youth of Geneva Lutheran Church will present a living nativity as part of Ge neva’s Christmas Walk on Friday, Decem ber 2 at 6:30, 7:00, 7:30 and 8:00 p.m. Set in a stable on the front lawn of the church located at the corner of Third and Franklin streets, a narration of the story of the birth of Jesus will be supported by costumed youth, animals and music.

Neapolitan Crèche

The Geneva History Museum, 113 S. Third St., is home to a breathtaking 18th Century Neapolitan nativity set. Visit the Museum from 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., thru Dec. 23 to see this rare display.

Geneva Giving Trees

Christmas trees decorated by lo cal charities will be on display throughout downtown Geneva. Visit GenevaHistoryMuseum.org to view a map of tree locations and to vote for trees with a monetary donation. Trees will be on display through January 1, 2023.

Visit with the Grinch

The Grinch is coming to Dodson Place!! Keller Williams and Compass Mortgage have created a winter wonderland for the Grinch and some of his friends. Come

get pictures with the Grinch, some fun filled times with the KW Kids Wonderland with the indoor Glowing Snowball room, Hot Cocoa and goodies that you only find in Whoville! You may be surprised at who else shows up!! December 2 only from 6:15 till 9 p.m.

Steeple Walk

The Annual Steeple Walk, sponsored by the Geneva Cultural Arts Commission, will once again be a part of Geneva’s Christmas Season. On the afternoon of Dec. 4 from 2:00 – 4:30 p.m. four season al performances occur at: United Method ist Church of Geneva (playing there will be the Lamplight Singers, a popular a-Capella quartet who have successfully performed numerous concerts through out the Chicago area.); First Church of Christ, Scientist (Canto Zenzero, the renowned ‘Singing Gingers and their accompanist); Geneva Lutheran Church (the widely performing Agape Bells and Chimes Ringers,) and the Unitarian Uni versalist Church (Holiday Jazz Trio: Jordan Christianson, Piano, Jazz Vocalist Olivia Flanigan, Ruth Cavanaugh flautist.) Cost is $15 pre-concert; if available $20 on Dec 4. Tickets on sale Nov 14- Dec 2 at Geneva Chamber of Commerce, Geneva City Hall and PayPal@genevarts.org.

Inge-Glas Holiday

Let Geneva Design House give you the Christmas you've been wanting! Holiday accessories, beautiful floral arrangements, plus sale pricing on the latest furniture and rugs throughout the season!

Christmas Floral Arrangements

Open

11-5 Tues

Up To

Tour 2022 9

Farmhouse Finds

A mural on the walls of Little Red Barn Door tells you exactly what you’ll find when you step through those Third Street doors.

“Where beautiful things come together,” it reads. The shop’s motto is a fitting one; Little Red Barn Door is full of curated decor, gifts and seasonal accessories, displayed in a way that makes you think you’re stepping into the house of your dreams.

The journey to the new 1,800-square-foot haven started with owner Sylvia Torres’ decision to redecorate her house. “I’ve always been more creative than anything,” she says, noting an affection for color and the rustic farmhouse style.

Her home renovation quickly moved to an online sales platform and then, unexpectedly, to a space in the Berry House. At the time, she was working in accounting for her family’s steel business, a job she had done for 20 years, but it was time to take a leap to a new, artistic endeavor. “It just kind of happened,” Torres remembers. The store opened in December 2017, just in time for Geneva’s annual Christmas Walk.

Little Red Barn Door, which sells mainly rustic farmhouse

goods, accessories and more, prioritizes the customer experience.

“It’s very important to me to make sure customers are happy,” Torres says. Whether you spend $1 or $1 million, she says, Torres and her staff make it a priority to treat customers how they’d want to be treated. “It means a lot to me.”

The new space (where Veiled in Elegance had been) is connected via a hallway to a new location for Little Barn Baby, a sister store for boutique baby clothes and toys.

“We always had our eye out for a location that would be accessible from the street,” says Torres. “Our time at the Berry House was wonderful, but we needed a larger space that had storage. Our warehouse in St. Charles holds many of our larger items, but the experience for the shopper is

always better when they can take that item home with them, same day. So, when this space became available, it was the perfect fit. After a lot of work to configure the space to fit our needs and aesthetic, we were so excited to open our doors this past July.”

Besides the mural, which was painted by local artist Emily Velazquez, shoppers will find white walls, dark ceilings and exposed brick. The clean, inviting space houses carefully collected beautiful items for the home, including seasonal items and decorative florals. Inventory is constantly com ing in and changing, so there’s always something new to discover.

For those looking to keep up with the trends, Torres has her eye on earthy, moody colors this season and a mix of modern and rustic farmhouse elements are currently influ encing her style as well. Don’t forget to be on the lookout for bigger items this year when perusing the gorgeous boutique. “The majority of our products will eventually be housed under one roof, which will allow a better shopping experience for the customer,” says Torres. “We are also looking into carrying some larger products that we could never carry in the shop before due to size constraints.”

Geneva Christmas Walk and Holiday House

Geneva Christmas Walk & Holiday House TourDECEMBER 2

B.A.S.H. Burger & Sushi House 124 W. State St.

Bell Jar Vintage 313 W. State St.

The Cottage Geneva 227 S. Third St.

Dancer’s Dream 322 W. State St

The Exchange of Geneva 219 W. State St. Evernia 328 S. Third St.

The Gift Box 310 W. State St.

Lenity Financial 25 N. River Ln., Ste. 1157

The Little Traveler 404 S. Third St

Olive Mill 315 James St.

Pinots Palette* 3823 E. Main St., St. Charles

8th St.

Geneva Ace Hardware State St. Diner

6th St. 7th St.

Fox River Tire & Auto* 20 N, 17th St., St. Charles

Geneva Ace Hardware 617 W. State St.

Geneva Ale House 319 W. State St.

Geneva Chamber of Commerce 8 S. Third St.

Geneva Design House by Strawflower 210 W. State St.

Geneva

Homeworks 33W622 Roosevelt Rd.

Rookies Sports Bar & Grill 1996 S. Kirk Rd.

State St. Diner 630 W. State St.

State Street Jewelers 230 W. State St.

Businesses Randall Rd.

Tinker Belz Art 227 S. Third St., Ste. 108

Urban Artisan 27 S. Third St.

The Winding Deerpath 316 Franklin St.

*Not on map, map only Geneva merchants

Williamsburg Ave. Keslinger Rd. Fabyan Pkwy. 12 Geneva Christmas Walk and Holiday House Tour 2022

Fisher Dr. Friendship Way Fargo Blvd. DECK OUT YOUR HOLIDAY. Buy 5 Get 1 Free! 3823 E. Main St., St. Charles 630-338-0278 www.pinotspalette.com/stcharles/events

Stone Cir.

(1) Austin Family Home

Directions: From Rt. 38 (State St.), turn south onto Third St. Go over the railroad tracks. Turn right onto Cheever Ave (Cheever is before lights at Rt. 31). Turn left on Meadows. Right on Sunset. Home will be on the right side.

Built in 2020, this over 8500 squarefoot, six-bedroom home overflows with craftsmanship, including detailed trims and moldings. The first home, on this property, was built almost 100 years ago by relatives of the Morton Salt Company. It has been said that some of the home’s landscap ing was obtained through a surplus from the Morton Arboretum. When the Austin’s bought the home, it was beyond repair, however salvageable metal was donated to Geneva History Museum.

As you enter, Little Red Barn Door carries the holidays among the main and lower level. Clean white wainscot ing offsets the dark walnut floors and stair rails leading to the second floor. Look up and glance at the built-in bookshelves on the landing. Peek into the dining room where a distinct stone table, showcasing varying colors and textures, makes it truly one-of-a-kind. Soon family will come to enjoy Christmas Eve dinner here. Gener

ous windows provide several angles to watch for Santa, Rudolph and the rest of the reindeer.

Any chef would love to create in this kitchen. Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances assist in making even the most amateur a professional. Quartz countertops and custom cabinetry complete this space. Gently divided from the kitchen, a great family room has a comfortable feeling, adding to the spacious openness. The white shiplap and dark wood beams complement the ceiling. Much of the furniture and artwork throughout the home was purchased from Geneva’s 610 Home, including several pieces in the family room. Built-ins surround the first of two fireplaces where stockings are hung with care. The

Geneva Christmas Walk and Holiday House

small balconette is cleverly concealed by a barn door. Numerous windows present views to outdoor living that becomes the epicenter for s’mores and hot cider in December. Doors open to a glorious retreat in the mas ter suite. Textures, like the upholstered headboard and micro-shag area rug bring warmth and softness to the contemporary room. The gray-and-white color scheme is carried into the master bath where you can relax and unwind in the soaker tub or the multiple jetted shower, both create a spa like feel. This transitional home office combines leather and warm neutral tones, with modern clean lines. The expansive built-ins hold collectibles and match the coffered ceiling beams overhead.

Descending the stairs, you are treated to the ultimate entertainment area. A game of ping pong or watch ing Buddy the Elf spread Christmas cheer in the media room, are just a few choices to delight in. A crackling fire warms the area, as the bar is fully stocked for a ca sual gathering. The lower level is decorated for festive fun, thanks to the talents of our decorator.

Welcome the outdoor beauty as you proceed into a wonder of lights guiding you back towards the front of this gem.

Decorated by:

Little Red Barn Door is your one stop for home decor, gifts and accessories. We would love to help you put together the perfect gift for your Mom, neighbor, a teacher or friend. Each purchase is wrapped and ready

to gift inside of a gift bag, with tissue paper and ribbon. A lot of the items in our shop are unique and made by local artisans. You will also find many items to spruce up your home, everything from wall decor, pillows, blankets and furniture and everything in between. Our modern farmhouse style combines rustic elements with new modern pieces. Follow us on Instagram or Facebook @ LittleRedBarnDoor and shop online at littleredbarndoor. com.

Little Red Barn Door: 21 S. Third St., Geneva 630.402.0072, littleredbarndoor.com

Plandscape’s Christmas Decor began in 1996 and has become the premier holiday lighting source in the Tri Cities. Decorating crews start in October to accom modate the growing list of clients who want to shine brightly during the holiday season. When we are not installing lights, Plandscape, Inc. provides a wide range of landscape services. To this day, our strength remains our staff. Our ‘can do’ attitude and a willingness to make customer service more than just words has led to long term relationships with many of our clients for over 30 years. Our goal is your complete satisfaction.

Plandscape, Inc.: 707 E. North St., Elburn 630.365.2558, plandscapeinc.com

Contributor:

GROW Geneva: 220 S. Third St., Geneva 630.470.3637, growgeneva.com

Now opeN!

(2) Bruno Family Home

Directions: From Rt. 38 (State St.), turn south onto Third St. Turn right on Fulton. Home will be on the left side.

Nestled in a historic neighborhood and built in 1907, this plaqued home is often referred to as The Cannon Home. A marvelous Queen Anne, lovingly restored over many decades, by the current owners, who have lived there for almost 30 years. The cozy front porch is hugged with custom railings designed and made by the family.

Inside a certain warmth envelopes you. To your right, take notice of the photograph of the Cannon family. A beautiful way to pay homage to the family that built 522 Fulton Street. Built-ins surround the snow-white fireplace, while a local artist commissioned painting hangs above. Given to the homeowner’s spouse for their 30th anniversary, it depicts an inn in Maine where the couple honeymooned. Plantation shut ters and Tudor style windows bask the room in winter warmth. Stairs, which lead up to three bedrooms, are decorated with a brass finial. A reminder of a past resident. Original quartersawn oak floors are found throughout the home. The scent of fresh greenery and decorating talents of SG Geneva beckon you to explore further.

New in 2020, the PB Design kitchen holds many sur prises. A 100-year-old crockery bowl from the owner’s grandparents Texas farm and an antique kitchen stand mixer are just a few. The original floor was discov ered under five layers of previously installed flooring. When imperfections were uncovered, the couple har vested wood from under the cabinets to repair. While converted generations ago, the eating area was once the exterior porch. This floor is reclaimed maple from the East Coast. The homeowners wanted to continue the maple from the main kitchen, but still distinguish it. How? By laying it horizontal. A unique addition, and special way to preserve original decorating, is a display of vintage wallpapers that was discovered through their renovations.

Family gathers around the superbly set dining table, looking forward to holiday merriment and engag ing conversation. The family room was added in the 1960s, but the design did not blend with the aesthet ics of the rest of the home. The Brunos included remedying this on their project list. The result is what you admire today. A relaxing room where you may

find Santa overstaying his welcome. Of interest may be the west wall three windows, brought in from the dining room, again repurposing turn of the century items.

Doors open to the ornate deck built by Mike in 2001. The outside is just as wonderful as the inside, thanks to the homeowners and our decorator, SG Geneva.

Decorated by:

SG Geneva/Scentimental Gardens, located on the corner of 5th and State streets, thrives on creating beauty indoors and out. The shop offers an everevolving collection of modern-day sophisticated finds along with a mix of edgy, old-world antiques - all hand selected. Debra travels the world searching for one of a kinds & artisan creations. Featured in Better Homes and Gardens, Country Living, Country Home, Chicago and Romantic Homes magazines, our goods and services define the business. We offer consultations, design plans and installations with our award-winning Landscape division, our Interior design services and Exterior design, think ‘Curb Appeal’. JOIN US! Small group tours to England and France, workshops ses sions, and special interest events. FOLLOW US! On our blog; www.5thandstate.blogspot.com. VISIT US!

In the Geneva shop and our sister shop, SG TOO, ‘select consignments’ in St. Charles or on our website; www.sggeneva.com.

SG Geneva/Scentimental Gardens: 428 W. State St., Geneva 630.232.1303, sggeneva.com

Contributor: All Chocolate Kitchen: 33 S. Third St., Geneva 630.232.2395, allchocolatekitchen.com

Geneva Christmas Walk and Holiday House

(3) The Home of Larry and Pam Cabeen

3616 Ridge Pointe Drive

Directions: From Rt. 38 (State St.) take to Bricher Road. Go west on Bricher Road. Turn south on Ridge Pointe Dr. Turn left to stay on Ridge Pointe Dr. Home will be on left side.

Situated in a quiet neighborhood, amidst snowy trees, the Cabeens are the original owners of this 2006 home. The initial design was greatly modified by the couple to accom modate their lifestyle. Walking up to the front door, you enjoy joyful greenery. While the holiday spirit is overflowing outside, stories behind the splendid collections are overflow ing inside.

Custom leaf-design, stained glass panels edge the front door. Terra Cotta Warriors, brought back from China wish you well, as you regard the nine-foot decorated tree. Every exploration yields exciting finds, which will be unveiled throughout. A mid-century Howard Miller clock ticks toward a New Year’s Eve countdown. One of most revered lumber of all time, Brazilian Rosewood floors, guide you to the heart of the home. The Danish style dining room table is set to perfection with the family’s 120-year-old French Limo ges, passed down from a cherished aunt. Admire the surrounding art, including alabaster statues of Heloise & Abelard, representing a tragic love story from the Middle Ages. The painting of Lake Massawippi in Que bec is a view from their honeymoon room.

Admiring the entirety of the library may take some time. Hand-crafted built-ins, a specially designed lad der, CD storage and chess cabinets, which showcase distinctive chess collections, are all indicative of Larry’s interest and talent in woodworking. A grandfather’s 1920 walking stick is hand-carved with friends’ names. Extensive travels are presented through artwork. Don’t forget to look up, the one-of-a-kind ceiling fan pays homage to a former profession. Music plays an impor tant role as shown through posters of choral perfor mances, visited opera houses and those following the dance career of their daughter.

In the newly updated kitchen, a large, tapered book case holds favorite recipes from near and far. Crisp white walls and various types of seating provide just the right wow factor in the living room. A modern fireplace serves as both a practical and aesthetic element, with a local artists rendition of a classic Georgia O’Keefe paint ing adding pops of color. The Noguchi coffee table was originally created in 1944. The brilliantly simple design consists of only three elements, the glass top and two interlocking wood base pieces. It is signed by designer Herman Miller. The talents of this family also span the

younger generation. A pen and ink passport sequence, created by the homeowner’s son, is prominently and proudly displayed.

Six panel doors welcome you to the bedroom, which reflects the many hobbies of the couple. A bicycle poster and a painting mastering their climb of Bell Tower in Beijing Hutong. Complementing the recessed lighting of the tray ceiling, a hot air balloon hangs above, conjuring smiles and memories of their ride over Napa Valley.

The lower-level workshop was originally designed to facilitate the constructing of a home-built airplane. However, Santa has taken it over creating an annex workshop for his team. An antique spindle child’s bed has already been refurbished by the clever elves. Min iature copies of the homeowner’s furniture, crafted by a Swedish craftsman almost 140 years ago, occupy this space as well as in the bedroom. Cuddle up on the custom walnut bed, in the bedroom, and transport to another place as you enjoy one of the many books that have been collected from vacations around the world. The last room, usually an office, but currently ground zero for wrapping gifts. The full size Swedish crafted dresser can be found in this room too.

Leaving, breathe in the crisp winter air and relish in delight of this home’s personality and holiday decorat ing both indoors and out.

Decorated by:

Lifestyle Design is delighted to be part of this year’s Holiday House Tour. We are a full-service interior design firm, specializing in remodels, kitchen and bath design, as well as “all things interior”. Our objective is to help clients identify their design aesthetic, and then create a space that is not only beautiful, but functional. Our talented designers provide elevations and photo realistic renderings to communicate our vision and then we bring those visions to life. With over 30 years of

design experience, we have had the privilege of working with clients throughout the Fox Valley, the Chicago metropolitan area and around the country. Creating spaces that are comfortable, memorable and inspiring bring joy to our clients, and to us! Happy Holidays from Lifestyle Design!

Lifestyle Design: 110 Westhaven Cir., Ge neva 630.262.3366, lifestyledesigngeneva. com, LIFESTYLE@ALDERFER.US

Geneva Garden Club is pleased to be a part of the Christmas Walk this year. The origin of the Christmas Walk began with the garden club years ago. Our club is dedicated to raising funds toward our civic endeavors. We sponsor and promote education about the physical & mental health benefits of garden ing, encourage education of our youth and others studying Horticulture, Earth & Envi ronmental sciences through scholarships and beautification of our enchanting town. GGC meets the first Tuesday of every month from September to May at the Stephen D. Pers inger Recreation Center at 11:30. Guests are always welcome.

Geneva Garden Club: genevagardenclub. com, President: Deb Hall-Reppen, deb.hall reppen@gmail.com, 630.926.6406

December

Holiday excitement in Geneva all December long! Holiday excitement

Harvey’s Tales Bookshop on the Patio – December 2

Artist Mark Adams will demonstrate ice sculpting from 5-8 pm

Carols and Cookies – December 2

Join St. Mark’s Church in their historic chapel to sing Christmas Carols between 6-7:30 pm (320 Franklin Street). Visit the Larrabee House (corner of Fourth & Fulton) and enjoy cookies from 6-7:30 pm.

Annual Cookie Walk – December 2

Buy an empty pastry box ($15) and fill it with your choice of festive home made cookies (while supplies last) from 4:30-6:30 at Unitarian Universalist Church. New this year--a Christmas stained glass raffle!

Coffee and Cocoa on 3rd Street – December 2

Stop by the Unitarian Universalist Church (3rd Street Lawn next to the Geneva History Museum) from 4:30-8:30 pm and warm up with a cup of hot coffee or cocoa as you enjoy the festivities on 3rd Street!

Meet the Artists – December 2

Meet artists Maureen McKee & George Bruce during Christmas Walk from 6-9 pm at Proud Fox Gallery.

See more events on page 20!

Geneva Christmas Walk and Holiday House

all

long!

Coffee Drop Shop Sampling – December 2

Serving free taste samples of our special Christmas herbal tea from 10 am-9 pm. Most Berry House Shops open late as well.

Holiday Open House – December 2

Stop by American Legion Post 75 for an Open House from 3-10 pm. Cookies and hot chocolate for the kids. Cash bar and holiday music. Come and celebrate the holiday season!

Hot Cocoa & Cookies – December 2 & 3

Join Dancer’s Dream from 3-7 pm and on Saturday, 11 am-4 pm for complimentary hot chocolate & cookies. Christmas Walk Specials. Shop early for the best selections.

Friends of Geneva Library Book Sale – December 2-4

At Geneva Public Library from from 10 am-4 pm (Fri); 10 am-4 pm (Sat); noon- 4 pm (Sun). Browse hundreds of books. $5 en trance fee for first two hours on Friday. Half-price sale on Sunday.

Pancake Breakfast with Santa – December 3

Geneva Lions Club hosts this event at Geneva High School, filled with live music, photos, crafts and breakfast. $10/adults; $8/4-12; under 3 free. For purchase of raffle tickets email info@ genevalions.org.

Dickens Reading in the Chapel – December 3

Come to St. Mark’s Chapel at 6 pm for Readers’ Theatre Production of Charles Dickens’ play. Free.

Breakfast with Santa – December 4, 11 & 18

Hotel Baker welcomes Santa from 9 am-12:30 pm. For reser vations, please call 584-2100.

Santa Photos at Geneva Commons - December 4, 11 & 18

Stop by Santa’s station at Geneva Commons, from 11 am-3 pm for a visit, a photo, and treats* for the kids. Bring your cam era and find him at 410 Commons Drive, between Sephora and Holm Studio. *Free hot chocolate, candy canes, and treats/toys while supplies last.

Snowman Scavenger Hunt – December 5-January 8

Geneva Chamber of Commerce and Adventures in Scav enger Hunting present a family-friendly scavenger hunt in downtown Geneva. Help the Chamber find 11 snowmen hidden in various stores. Game cards can be found at participating stores (Little Red Barn Door, Little Barn Baby, Pug & Hound Apothecary, Cookie Dough Bliss, Country Naturals, Crystal

Life Technology, Kilwins, Liz & Kate, The Winding Deerpath, Chi-Cuterie or The Cottage). Find and collect all 11 snowmen/ stamps for a chance to be entered into a raffle for a Geneva Chamber gift card or raffle basket. Find them all before time melts away!

Christmas Songs through the Decades with the Galway Gals – December 6

Enjoy an historical “tour” of Christmas songs through the decades performed by classically trained musicians Liz Berg McNichols and Anna Gillan, a/k/a the Galway Gals at The Little Traveler. During this special holiday performance, they’ll entertain us in the beautiful setting of St. Mark’s Church historic chapel, just one block from our store. There is no wheelchair access to the chapel and going up steps is required. Online registration required.* $30 breakfast and performance; $20 performance only. Both tickets come with a Shopping Coupon good that day for $10 off a $20 purchase. This event has a twoweek cancellation policy. To receive a refund, you must notify us of your cancellation at least 14 days prior to the event date by emailing admin@littletraveler.com or calling the store and leav ing a message with our Events Coordinator.

Sing Along with Santa – December 17 & 18

Steel Beam Theatre presents this show. Visit steelbeamthe atre.com for more information.

Winterlights in Fabyan Japanese Gardens – through Decem ber 16, begins again January 7

Enjoy the peace and tranquility of the historic Fabyan Japanese Garden and experience the magic of winter with family and friends. See how a carpet of snow glitters under thousands of lights and revel in the beauty of the Fox Valley’s only public Japanese Garden. Fridays & Saturdays, 5-7 pm through Decem ber 16. January 7-28, Saturdays 5-7 pm. Tickets are $8/person (5 and under, free). For advance registration visit PPFV.org/win terlights.

Miracle on 34th Street Radio Show – through December 18

Steel Beam Theatre presents this show. Tickets available for performances for Fri-Sun. Visit steelbeamtheatre.com for more information.

Christmas Eve Services – December 24

Join St. Mark’s Church for their annual Christmas Pageant at 4 pm. Christmas Eve services will be at 2 & 10 pm. Christmas Day service at 10 am.

Directions: From Rt. 38 (State St.), turn south/west on Kaneville Rd. Pro ceed on Kaneville Rd. Home will be on the left side.

In 1922, the Wilson Brothers, famed for both the volume and the high quality of their construction, built this American Foursquare brick design home. Wil son’s construction was heavily influenced by Frank Lloyd Wright. Who better to decorate a 100-year-old home than a business celebrating 100 years, The Little Traveler. While the current family has lived here only six years, they are just the third family to enjoy this 3000 square-foot bungalow.

Luminaries guide you to the sleeping porch, giving you a taste of the holiday splendor inside. The front door, original to the home, welcomes you in, where wonderful memories are tucked into every corner of this historic four bedroom. Blueprints hang on the wall, providing a sneak peek into the Wilson Brother’s vision. Quarter sawn oak cabinetry is unmistakable throughout. Crisp, bright sunlight streams through the living room’s grouped windows, that look upon the boiler cabinet; made with the home’s original 1926 boiler door. Oak built-ins, with paned glass doors, also used in the dining room, protect family Lladros that were given to the fam ily from five Geneva High School exchange students. Take notice of the horseshoes from the homeowner’s uncle, he kept them in his car for good luck… and he has lived to be over 100. Hot cocoa is poured, cookies are made and the stockings are hung on the fireplace as the arrival of St. Nicholas is anticipated.

Stepping into the dining room transports you to an earlier time when gatherings revolved around the family. Photos from past to present line the walls and create a gallery of memories. Our decorator has set a delightful table, ready for the Christmas feast. Carefully blended additions, like the kitchen and family room, have up dated the house while maintaining its historic quality. All the nooks and crannies are cleverly utilized in the kitchen, providing many spots on the granite counter tops to decorate freshly baked cookies.

Stepping down into the family room, there is no doubt the holidays are upon us. The homeowner’s per sonal ornament collection is intermixed with selections from The Little Traveler, resulting in a visual present for each of you. This room boasts repurposed 100-yearold storm windows brought to the back from the front of the home. Exiting through the generous sliding doors, pause for the magnificent views of mature trees covered in fallen snow.

A careful balance of modern updating and original design creates a pleasing blend in this home, built

decades ago for Geneva High School graduate Ira Johnson. Over the years, additions were added and renovations were made, but the roots were always hon ored. It is easy to see how yesterday continues to meet today at 1600 Kaneville Road.

Decorated by:

The Little Traveler’s design team is honored to have been chosen to add festive touches to this historic home that was built in the same era that The Little Trav eler opened its doors as The Geneva Gift Shop. They’ve gathered special items from around the shop’s many departments to enhance this home’s historic charm and complement the family’s own holiday traditions. The comfortable, welcoming feel of the home begins the moment you step onto the front porch and are sur rounded by custom holiday greenery. Step inside to see how Grandmother’s dishes on the dining room table and the family’s stockings at the fireplace mantel inter mix with handcrafted Byers’ Choice carolers and classic Karen Didion Santas as well as contemporary dishware, textiles, and home decor to create a cozy atmosphere for ringing in the holidays with family and friends.

Since 1922, The Little Traveler has had a reputation for gracious entertaining. The store’s founder, Mrs. Kate Raftery, and her husband, Edmond, enjoyed a wide circle of friends and were known for entertaining with flair in their magnificent Victorian home at 404 S. Third Street in Geneva, where the store still resides today. In this one-of-a-kind 36-room boutique, you’ll find every thing you need to entertain with flair in your own home. The store’s collection of gourmet foods, home décor, table linens, housewares, candles, women’s fashions, infant and toddler clothing, bath & body, and favorite collections like Kendra Scott, Brighton, Nora Flem ing, Stonewall Kitchen, Byers’ Choice, and Old World Christmas make The Little Traveler a one-stop shop for all your gift-giving and entertaining needs.

The Little Traveler: 404 S. Third St., Geneva 630.232.4200, littletraveler.com

Directions: From Rt. 38 (State St.), turn north on Rt. 31. Home will be on the right side.

This 8500 square-foot, six bed, four and a half bath, modern farmhouse is the second home on this site and the Mehren family is fortunate to be the second generation living here. The home owner’s grandparents, Vic and June Lencioni, had a home on the property for 50 years. Vic owned a long-standing Geneva business, The Little Owl. The homeowner has fond memories of riding his bike to his grandparent’s home and fishing in the river, so in 1996, when the property came up for sale, the Mehrens didn’t hesitate purchas ing. Even though they were not ready to call Geneva home again, with the wonderful times remembered, they could not imagine someone else owning 611 North First Street.

The home you are about to enjoy was built in 2003. The family lived here and then moved to Canada for a few years for a job opportunity. Upon returning, remod eled it in 2015, employing many local professionals, including the extensive talents of Augustine Custom Development and our decorator HDG. The impressive architecture outside, complete with a cupola, gives hints of the magnificence found inside.

Upon entering, your eyes are drawn to the expansive wall of windows overlooking the quick flowing Fox River. Sunlight floods every room. A picture of the original home is shown on the wall, honoring his grandparents. Laughter and exclamations of glee, as presents are quickly unwrapped, echo from the grandly lit tree. The open concept design is perfect for this family of five. Built-ins, flanking the fireplace, store plenty of wood ready for inviting fires all season long. Custom furniture, created by hand, graces most of the rooms, includ ing the beautiful dining room table. Vaulted, wood beamed ceilings with unique light fixtures and wood composite floors, deliver a rustic, modern feel, carried through to the master, powder room and office spaces. As you proceed, you are granted exceptional views from each room. It almost makes working from home feel much like a vacation.

The family-friendly kitchen is truly the heart of the home with a large, granite island. In the 2015 remodel, the kitchen was moved to overlook the river. Slate gray countertops and porcelain walls are handsomely paired with this kitchen’s farmhouse sink and fresh white cabinets. Used daily while the homeowner creates recipes and programs for her holistic, nutrition business, presently it is prepared for and awaiting the arrival of family and friends for Christmas Eve, featuring Grandpa Lencioni’s famous Tom & Jerry cocktails.

The screened in porch, that is appreciated all year long, affords an excellent vantage point to watch for the arrival of the jolly old elf. Just in case he decides to HO HO HOP on a boat this year. Legend says that animals speak on Christmas Eve. If that is true, there may certainly be lots of chatter, considering the vast wildlife

that frequents the Mehren yard. Look closely for bald eagles, beavers, deer and more.

As you stroll to the downstairs, notice how it was planned with teenagers in mind. No matter the inter est, there is something that their daughters and friends will find entertaining. While living in Toronto, the family brought back mementos that now have a home in the downstairs bedroom.

This brilliant riverfront home exudes character, charm and happiness. Here, it’s always the Most Wonderful Time of the Year as tales of the glories of Christmases long, long ago are told and celebrated year-round.

Decorated by:

HDG (Haven Design Group) is a creative design agency that designs, develops, and executes conversation-worthy spaces. We work with homeowners and business owners to transform their best qualities into inspiring places to live and work. Our success comes from our ability to translate our clients’ identities into a vision for a physical space, and then coordinate teams of professionals to execute that vi sion flawlessly. HDG has been collaborating with business owners and homeowners to create—and refresh—awardwinning brands and spaces for 10+ years. We have had the honor of working on many hometown projects including Leelyn Smith, Buttermilk, Grahams 318, Preservation and Nobel House, as well as several historical renovations and new construction homes. We are proud to support our community and are thrilled to be a part of this year’s holiday house tour!

Haven Design Group (HDG): 301 W. State St., Ste. 200., Geneva 773.220.2501, havendesigngroup.com

Let Neri Landscape bring you holiday *sparkle*. We can have you dreaming of the magic of a white Christmas or a whimsical multi-color extravaganza. Greens and wreaths show off holiday spirit until the true show illuminates the night and awes your neighbors. Neri Landscape is your family’s “One Stop Shop” to 4 Season beauty. Owner George Neri, a 4th generation tri-cities resident, has been creating beautiful spaces for over 20 years. Neri Landscape offers a full array of services that encompass Complete Landscape Design & Installation to Property Maintenance. Neri Landscape can create a custom landscape plan by joining a mix of your ideas and our expertise that is perfect for you!

Neri Landscape: PO Box 1053, St. Charles 630.443.4722, nerilandscape.com

Geneva Christmas Walk and Holiday House Tour