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2. LEARN ABOUT THE WWII HOME FRONT HISTORY
EXHIBITS, EVENTS, AND PROGRAMS ONLINE
NAPERVILLE–To commemorate the 75th anniversary of
the end of WWII, Naper Settlement will explore how the
HomeFront responded to war and connect Naperville to
national stories of wartime economic and cultural shifts.
Though the museum is currently closed due to the Pan-
demic, readers are encouraged to visit online to learn
about the upcoming exhibits that are coming to com-
memorate the end of WWII. The list is awe-inspiring!
www.napersettlement.org/595/WWII-Home-Front-1940s
SPRING 2020
5 Things to Do
1. SHOP ONLINE FOR SPRING TRENDS
URBAN ECHO SHOP–Send a Message of
Hope throughout the Day with this Graphic
Tee. It’s Simple Yet So Powerful ♥ Available
In Black and Blush • S, M, L, XL • $28.95
Cotton/Poly Blend • Made In USA
www.urbanechoshop.com
Glancer Magazine • APRIL 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 7
4. PLAN FOR FUTURE KITCHEN, BATH & BASEMENT HOME
UPDATES AT MYHOMEWERKS.COM
NAPERVILLE– Recognized as a premiere remodeling company,
with a 10,000 square foot showroom in Naperville, HomeWerks
has a beautiful online gallery of photos and ideas to help you plan
your next remodeling dream come true. Now’s a great time to
start planning your next kitchen, bath or basement project!
Family owned and operated since 1996, HomeWerks specializes
in full service remodeling. The kitchen and bath displays are in-
teractive, allowing visitors to experience many product features
first hand. With the focus of providing high quality products, pro-
fessional installation and exceptional customer service
HomeWerks Kitchen and Bath • www.myhomewerks.com
3. GET A BEAUTY PLAN IN PLACE
AND SAVE WITH ONLINE DEALS
NAPERVILLE & GENEVA
Offering many online specials during
this time at home! Concierge Med-
ical Spa is a luxury medical spa
with highly trained physicians,
nurse practitioners and estheti-
cians offering the most compre-
hensive esthetic medical
services. From body contouring
to highly advanced future-for-
ward restorative and non-surgi-
cal cosmetic procedures, our
esthetic experts are some of the
best in the industry. As the
number one provider of Cool-
sculpting in the Midwest and Top
200 in the country of Allergan injec-
tors, our services produce excellent
results and have high client satisfaction.
www.conciergemedspa.com/glancer
4. CONNECT WITH
THE GROWING PLACE BLOG
AURORA & NAPERVILLE– Prepare
for gardening season with a local
leading garden center, The Growing
Place. During this time at home, con-
nect with their blog for planting and
gardening tips, ideas and more.
Once the Shelter in Place is lifted,
visit for a wide selection of outdoor
and indoor plants, trees, shrubs,
vegetables and herbs tucked in
amongst theirgardens.
The Growing Place
www.thegrowingplace.com
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8 • WESTERN SUBURBS • APRIL 2020 • Glancer Magazine
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COVER STORY
SHOP ONLINE LOCALLY DURING THE SHELTER IN
PLACE ORDER & GET TO KNOW THESE SHOPS
CNN Reported this past month that the future of a
successful mall retailers is apparently outside of
the mall. Beauty, haircare, and skincare chains
are seeing huge opportunity in brick and mortar
locations in neighborhood and strip centers,
inclusive of the downtown Naperville area.
“Unlike other retail categories, health and
beauty is more insulated from online
buying, ladies like to try on new cosmetics
to see if it’s the right shade for them, smell
the perfume, see the new lip colors,” says
Katie Wood, Executive Director of the
Downtown Naperville Alliance. “It’s a sen-
sory experience that you can’t do easily on-
line, and for that reason, this segment
continues to expand.”
Some big names that have moved into the
downtown Naperville area include Bluemercury,
MAC Cosmetics, Sephora, Ulta, Benefit, and most
recently, LUSH.
Bluemercury (www.bluemercury.com) founder, Marla Beck, says
she created the makeup, skincare and spa as a haven for beauty lovers - a
place to learn a new tip or trick about makeup and skincare, or to pop in to the
spa for a facial or brow styling. A place to always receive honest, expert advice,
and to find the best beauty products in the world, right in your neighborhood.
You can’t get an oxygen facial, glycolic peel, or waxing and microdermabrasion
online!
Similarly, Sephora offers ongoing events and experiences to celebrate top
brands with friends, and try new products while learning new application skills
such as 15 Minute Mini Sessions for brows, lashes, makeup, foundation, lips
and full face makeovers.
“Naperville is a very business friendly community,” Ms. Wood adds. “Naperville
is a destination and whether big or small, national or local, as long as the busi-
ness’s plans align with our city’s zoning guidelines we welcome commerce.
Furthermore, Downtown Naperville is a unique shopping district where you get
the best of both worlds – nationally popular businesses mixed with local favor-
ites … where, as an example you have the Apple Store across from Anderson’s
Bookshop, Lululemon across from Naperville Running Company, Gap across
from Deans and so on. Customers like to be able to shop at
both and that ‘blend’ is one of Downtown Naperville’s
unique characteristics; or, as we say, “tried and true”
and “just for you” businesses – national and local. It
makes for a great shopping experience.”
Each business has their own specialty and loyal
customer base. Some businesses not only
have products, but also offer services that
supplement what they sell. LUSH (www.lu-
shusa.com), which offers uniquely hand-
made skincare and cosmetic products that
are vegetarian and fresh opened recently at
119 S. Main at the end of February in Down-
town Naperville and there was a buzz all
over Naperville for their grand opening event.
Just down Main Street, MAC Cosmetics
(www.maccosmetics.com) offers year-round
events ranging from immersive one-on-one tuto-
rials (M·A·C 123 and Technique classes), to excit-
ing collection launches, previews and exclusive
global parties with the biggest names in fashion, film,
music and art – M∙A∙C events bring their dynamic culture
to life. All Ages, All Races, All Genders.
Also, on Main Street is Benefit Cosmetics Boutique & BrowBar Lounge
(www.benefitcosmetics.com) where you can host an after-hours private beauty
bash including bubbly, small bites, make-uppers, and brow wax or shaping.
Best known for their motto, “laughter is the best cosmetic...so grin and wear it,”
and their whimsical candy store atmosphere, the boutique is famous for deliver-
ing quick fixes for every gal's peskiest beauty dilemmas.
Ulta (www.ulta.com) has grown to become the largest U.S. beauty retailer and
has a storefront on Washington Street offering cosmetics, fragrance, skin care
products, hair care products and salon services of more than 25,000 products
from approximately 500 beauty brands across all categories and price points.
They also believe in giving back and have a long-standing partnership with the
Breast Cancer Research Foundation®, as well as other local nonprofit organi-
zations.
Ms. Wood reiterates that Naperville is a vibrant town and it doesn’t go unno-
ticed by big box retailers. “Numerous health and beauty brands cluster together
in many areas across the country,” she says. “Having a variety of options is
beneficial to consumers.”
The Beauty Shop Boom
DOWNTOWN NAPERVILLE
by Kristen Kucharski
Photos by Mike Catuara
Glancer Magazine • APRIL 2020• WESTERN SUBURBS • 9
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10 • WESTERN SUBURBS • APRIL 2020 • Glancer Magazine
The NJWC Woman of the Year Awards 2020
The NJWC Woman of the Year Awards honor exceptional women, who
through their business or philanthropic endeavors, have made an undeni-
able impact on our community. Profits from the event will support the NJWC
Michelle LaFrey Fregoso Scholarship Program, which is awarded annually
to high school seniors in Districts 203 & 204. Join us in celebrating these
women at White Eagle Golf Club June 17, 2020. Tickets & Sponsorship
opportunities are available on the napervillejuniors.org.
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Glancer Magazine • APRIL 2020• WESTERN SUBURBS • 11
All Things Beautiful
by Kristen Kucharski
Soon again you will be enjoying the calming
scents of the aromatic candles that will engage
your senses from the moment you step into the
historic log cabins of Velvet Grace in Oswego.
The creative displays in cozy vignettes en-
hance the shopping experience while you pe-
ruse the beautiful home décor; timeless and
trendy women’s apparel, jewelry and acces-
sories, as well as hats, scarves, handbags, and
much more.
Look forward to encompassing yourself into the
welcoming shopping environment splashed with an
array of gift selections - Capri Blue, Eleven Point, and
Himalayan candles, in addition to frames, vases, bas-
kets, wall art, pillows, and throws. Design specialists are
also just a phone call away, on-hand, and online to help you
with personalizing your home and inform you how the easy-to-use
Annie Sloan Chalk Paint® can transform your old furniture, cabinets,
frames, lamps and much more with little or no prep.
Oswego residents and store owners, Mary Blanchflower and Nicole Menard
promise that when you shop Velvet Grace you will receive a bit of retail therapy
and leave with a little grace.
These two friends and neighbors have a passion for creating beautiful things
and believe in giving back and supporting growth in their hometown. What
began with an idea in 2014 became a reality in October 2015 when Nicole’s
background in custom home building, interior/exterior selections, accessorizing,
wholesale buying, and retail merchandising paired nicely with Mary’s graphic
design, marketing and promotion resume to open Velvet Grace in two historic
log cabins as a gift boutique and workshop hosting events using Annie Sloan
Chalk Paint.
In Fall of 2018, Velvet Grace Studio evolved from Annie Sloan Workshops to re-
tailing trending women’s apparel and accessories, which has been a successful
addition to boasting the most current season trends such as mini floral patterns,
flowing tops and sun dresses; puffed sleeves, wrapped ankle pants, bralettes,
bold color accents, and even a touch of neon! The Spring and Summer sea-
sons will feature fun, graphic tees under sweaters, and jackets from top
women’s apparel lines by Lush Clothing, Elan, Love Stitch. Jewelry from pop-
ular name brands such as: Kendra Scott, Summer Ellis, Larissa Loden, My
Saint My Hero and their personal designer Lush Designs.
Although they have converted their workshop into an
apparel studio and do not offer workshops on site,
fans of these special events will be pleased to learn
Velvet Grace will be offering workshops this
summer at a different location. Clients can con-
tact the shop at (630) 636-6570, check the Vel-
vet Grace website at www.velvetgrace.net,
and follow social media sites like Instagram or
Facebook @velvetgraceoswego for up-to-
date events and promotions or to receive in-
formation on any upcoming classes.
“We are an unexpected surprise,” says Nicole.
“From our ever-changing displays, to our
unique products, to the warm and welcoming
atmosphere, it’s a destination you don’t want to
miss. Our design specialists are here to help you
make your house a home, choose a new outfit with
jewelry to accent, and find the perfect gift for that
someone who has everything.”
At Velvet Grace incorporating a bit of all styles separates their
design look from many other boutiques. This Spring expect to see a
very earthy, natural vibe. Dried botanicals, beautiful art, textures from fur to tas-
sels and wood bead strands. A vibe that is very warm, comfortable and wel-
coming in a home.
Mary and Nicole believe their customer service is the secret to their success
coupled with the boutique style cozy atmosphere that delivers a sense of per-
sonable attention to our clients. The talented staff offers dedicated design and
apparel assistance and contributes greatly to building relationships with clients.
They try to touch all the senses when merchandising, from burning the calming
scents of our candles, to paying close attention to lighting, textures, trends and
unique apparel items that clients really enjoy paired with excellent customer
service.
Over the past four years, Mary and Nicole have also contributed to local organi-
zations by donating to Hesed House, Habitat for Humanity, Oswego District 308
schools and teachers, Bickford of Oswego, Young Life, Oswego Junior
Women’s Club, American Heart Association, Hoops for Healing and many more.
Velvet Grace is located at 4025 US Highway 34 in Oswego. The store is cur-
rently in compliance with state mandates during this difficult time so please fol-
low their social media sites @velvetgraceoswego or their website at
www.velvetgrace.net for current hours of operation and services available; latest
arrivals; and inspiration for your closet, home, or special gift for a friend.
home, or special gift for a friend.
Velvet Grace of Oswego
ALL THINGS BEAUTIFUL
by Kristen Kucharski
Photos by Mike Catuara
April2020_28pp_Layout 1 3/31/2020 8:47 AM Page 11
FAMILY DENTISTRY WITH
A WIDE ARRAY OF SERVICES
Valley View Dental offers an array of
general and cosmetic dentistry, peri-
odontal, dental implants, oral surgery,
and orthodontic procedures, including
traditional braces, Invisalign, teeth
whitening, CEREC one-day crowns
and even same day emergency visits.
With a large staff of multi-lingual doc-
tors, on-site labs at each location, and
extended business and weekend
hours, Valley View Dental has the
ability to treat patients according to
their own schedules and convenience. Stop by and see why others in the com-
munity have trusted Valley View Dental for almost 20 years. Valley View Dental
www.vvdental.com. Located In Naperville, Montgomery & Romeoville.
PERSONABLE, ENERGETIC & CREATIVE
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL
SUSAN COLELLA OF BAIRD & WARNER
This proud Naperville resident shares that helping
local sellers and buyers doesn’t feel like work making
it easy to be dedicated and results oriented When
she is hired to list a home she gains much of the mar-
keting inspiration from her sellers when she asks “
what do you love about your home?” From there she
designs high end customs booklets with professional
photography & drone shots, descriptions of updates,
& develops unique ways to target the right buyers on
the internet. Restyling her listings with professional
staging , 3D tours great for out of state buyers and
constant follow up with all parties are all included for her recipe of success!
Susan is currently meeting with sellers & buyers now in anticipation of a thriving
Spring market~ Call luxury listing agent Susan Colella anytime to discuss your
real estate goals for 2020. Susan Colella, Baird & Warner, (630) 946-3813
Glancer Magazine • APRIL 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 13
COMMUNITY NEWS
CREATIVE MARKETING STRATEGIES
PENNY O’BRIEN – One word that consistently
comes to clients’ minds when they think of Penny
O’Brien is “hustle.” As a Seller Representative Spe-
cialist, she loves meeting with sellers to discuss pre-
market home improvements and guide them to
make their home “showtime ready” when it hits the
market. She strongly believes in professional stag-
ing and offers it as a complimentary service. With a
reputation for “good-looking listings,” she helps
clients realize a higher return and quicker sale.
Penny says “Staging transforms a home from aver-
age to amazing”.
Penny O'Brien Broker | Relocation Specialist
Negotiation Expert • (630) 207-7001 • penny.obrien@bairdwarner.com
Read Penny’s Local Industry Expert Column at www.GlancerMagazine.com
SUPPORT LOCAL AUTHORS
GRETCHEN BERG, THE OPERATOR
Chicago area author, Gretchen Berg’s maternal grandmother was a switchboard op-
erator in the 30’s, 40’s and 50’s, back when it was possible for an operator to listen in
on all your calls, and according to Gretchen’s mom, she did just that. “I was working
in the field of Genealogy, compiling narratives for clients,” says Gretchen. “It was while
researching my own family history that I was inspired to write The Operator.”
The Operator is the story of Vivian Dalton, a small-town operator in 1950’s America
who relishes listening into her neighbors’ phone conversations until one day when she
overhears an exceptionally shocking secret – and it’s about her. As secrets are un-
earthed about her family she is catapulted through a maze of unexpected twists.
“I had to do a lot of research for the time period,” says Gretchen. “It was important for
me to get all the details right.” Along with general research, she spent many hours
watching television programs and movies from those times and was thankful to have
Turner Classic Movies available for an enjoyable variety.
The Operator was published by William Morrow/Harper Collins last month and can be
found online and in bookstores now with an audio version coming soon.
Do You Know a Local Author? Introduce Us at editorial@glancermagazine.com
Literary Locals
GET TO KNOW V FUSION STUDIO + JOIN THEIR NEWSLETTER
GENEVA–V Fusion Studio trainers (pictued above) take consideration to increase
your quality of life when creating classes - and now also virtually (join facebook
page). Local area owner, Rachel Kowal, is currently pursuing her master’s de-
gree in exercise physiology, and she bases all classes in the latest research. The
current schedule has a variety of effective, fun, and unique classes. V fusion will
improve your core strength, endurance, and physique safely so you “train for life”
with this popular fitness studio. You’re invited to come out and see why so many
love it! Enjoy 30-days of unlimited classes for just $95 or try one week for FREE
when you mention Glancer Magazine. V Fusion Studio, 129 W State, Geneva,
www.vfusionstudio.com
S P O T L I G H T S
April2020_28pp_Layout 1 3/31/2020 8:49 AM Page 13
14 • WESTERN SUBURBS• APRIL 2020 • Glancer Magazine
MY DAUGHTER’S
DRESS IN OSWEGO
It’s about that time.
High schools are
making their plans
for prom and the
girls are out in
droves to find that
perfect dress. The
boutiques and depart-
ment stores are proudly
displaying their designs in
hopes to lure interested buyers,
but prices can be high for that cov-
eted dress, and not everyone will be
able to shell out the money needed
to buy what they need to attend their
dance.
Many just end up not going because
they cannot afford the special ware.
Oswego’s Mary Garcia, Founder and
President of My Daughter’s Dress,
believes no one should miss a spe-
cial dance or occasion in their lives
because of the outrageous costs. In
2017, when one of her daughter’s
close friends did not attend home-
coming for this reason, she got the
idea of collecting donated formal
wear and selling them for an afford-
able price – just a small donation to
their organization.
The project garnered an overwhel-
ming response from local moms and
has since expanded to offer dresses,
shoes and accessories for occasions
including prom, homecoming, wed-
dings, quinceaneras, bridesmaids,
flower girls, and semi-formal parties.
They have also just recently added a
young man’s line of formal ware
needs.
“The very first dress we donated was
my daughter’s $800 quinceanera
dress,” says Mary. “We donated it to
a young lady in Lemont for her prom,
and that’s where the name for our or-
ganization came from.” To date, My
Daughter’s Dress has
helped 867 girls find
their dresses, not
including the 24
wedding dresses
and the 13 quin-
ceanera dresses.
“I love when a girl
or woman finds
‘the dress’ and they
cry and smile at the
same time,” says Mary.
“That’s why we do it.”
The organization is run completely
with volunteers and donations, both
financial and formal ware. They pay
rent and utilities at a space (44 Mon-
roe St., #4, Oswego) to house their
inventory and allows them to stay
open for shopping and donations all
year long. If you are interested in
more information about My Daugh-
ter’s Dress, donating or volunteering,
please visit www.mydaugh-
tersdress.org .
Mindy’s April Giving Inspiration:
Find opportunities to give compli-
ments. It costs nothing and could
make someone’s day. Don’t just
think it. Say it.
The shop is currently closed due to the COVID-
19 Shelter In Place. Follow online to learn more
and to stay connected to this special organiza-
tion.
ABOUT THE
WRITER
Mindy Kyle is
the owner of Be
Inspired Studios
and is passionate
about helping
people discover what
brings them joy and to live a full, healthy
and happy life. She has her Masters in
Fine Arts degree in creative writing from
DePaul University and lives in Naperville
with her husband, three children and the
cutest dog in the land.
MONTHLY COLUMN
To Give, To Inspire
community living
April2020_28pp_Layout 1 3/31/2020 8:55 AM Page 14
Dining Delights continues to deliver too! Many west surburban restaurants are still
open for business and still offering delivery and take out during this national time of
uncertainty.
With all the negative news right now let’s throw in a few positive things from II Pog-
giolo Ristorante in Hinsdale who is still open for curbside carry out and DoorDash
– plus enjoy your favorite bottle of wine from Poggiolo HALF OFF with your to-go
order! You can also purchase $125 gift cards for only $100! Il Poggiolo showcases
fresh Italian fare with a modern interpretation of classic dishes and the wine list fea-
tures more than 50 wines from various Italian regions.
Bottle of red...Bottle of white...Whatever kind of mood you’re in tonight...Traverso’s
Italian Restaurant Pizzeria of Naperville has been given approval for carryout
beer and wine sales to accompany their old-world recipes including handmade pas-
tas, specialty chicken, beef, pork, and seafood dishes, along with many gluten-free
options. Traverso’s will continue to offer carry out, delivery, and catering to their
valued customers.
Barone’s of Glen Ellyn has you covered for feeding and entertaining your kids!
Order a Jr Pizza Maker kit with your next order and kids can have fun making their
own pizza's at home. Each kit is only $5.95 and includes pre-rolled pizza dough,
tomato sauce, cheese, pepperoni, and a Jr. Pizza Maker Hat!
With schools closing, local restaurants understand the struggles some families in
our community might go through. Therefore, Chef Abdul Mediterranean restau-
rant in St. Charles is offering free kids meal with every adult purchase to ensure
that families don’t go through more struggles during this rough period of time. The
restaurant will be open for take-out meals.
Savor all the many flavors and the genuine generosity of our community establish-
ments.
Eat and be well! –Kristen Kucharski
Dining
+ ENTERTAINMENT
Dining Out at Home
WEST SUBURBAN DINING
DINING + ENTERTAINMENT
Umai Aji-Ya
760 Rt 59, Suite 112, Naperville
(630) 423-772 • www.umai-ajiya.com
Owner: Hill Investment Group
Chef: Jenny Espinoza
SIMPLY DELICIOUS
Noodle shops have been popping up everywhere with ramen in demand. These
days ramen is so much more than what you would find in a college dorm! Devin
and Laura Hill found the perfect location in Naperville and opened their doors last
November. Along with Chef Jenny Espinoza they have been satisfying customers
ever since. We found Umai-Aji-Ya Japanese grill and ramen stop trendy and fresh.
The delicate layers of flavors can be found in every dish. The simple clean design,
comfortable ambiance and delectable menu makes it a great meeting spot for
friends and families.
Starting with the crispy brussels with umai sauce, cayenne, lemon and garlic chips
is a good option. Another customer favorite is the Gulf Shrimp Buns with umai sauce
and scallions, they bring great textures to the dining experience.
Ramen is a Japanese dish that translates to pulled noodles and dates back to 1910.
Every region in Japan has its own variation. What makes ramen so appealing? The
smell of the savory broth, the bright colors, gooey egg, perfectly cooked ramen
noodles, the crunchy sprouts all make it a culinary and sensory delight. Espinoza
has embraced the authentic Japanese style, from the eighteen-hour cooking pro-
cess for the ramen broths to the precise presentation. Tonkotsu is the traditional
ramen with a rich pork broth, marinated chashu pork belly, bean sprouts, Naruto,
mushrooms, bamboo shoots, seaweed, sesame seeds, green onion, soft boiled egg,
and drizzled with garlic oil.
Umai rice bowls are light and refreshing with a choice of brown or white rice. We
enjoyed the burst of flavor in the Salmon Crunch. Like a deconstructed sushi roll
the raw salmon marinated in their signature sauce sits on top of the rice along with
avocado, masago, red onion, spicy aioli, nori, sesame and jalapeno.
The kid’s menu is just as fun! Ramen mac and cheese, rice bowls and mini ramen
bowls are a few choices. What child doesn’t enjoy slurping up a noodle?
Umai Aji-Ya offers lunch or dinner along with a good vibe. But most importantly the
food is simply delicious.
Due to the recent COVID-19 Shelter In Place Order, Umai-Aji-Ya is offering free delivery, free
kids meals and discounts for the first responders and local medical personnel. Call direct
to support this local business. New hours are as follows, closed Sunday and Monday,
Tuesday through Thursday they are open 4:00pm until 8:00pm, Friday and Saturday
they are open 4:00pm until 9:00pm.
ABOUT THE CRITICS Stephanie (right) & Tiffany (left) Schmoker are west suburban sisters
who have always shared a love for dining out and they also enjoy cooking together. They
came from a family of 7 and grew up on farm with fresh fruits, veggies and more. Watch for
their review of a different west suburban restaurant in each issue of Glancer Magazine. Invite
them to your eatery at editorial@glancermagazine.com.
Savory & Sweet Sisters
WEST SUBURBAN EDIBLES TO LOVE
Glancer Magazine • APRIL 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 15
April2020_28pp_Layout 1 3/31/2020 8:57 AM Page 15
GLEN
Ellyn
16 • WESTERN SUBURBS • APRIL 2020 • Glancer Magazine
Pay It Forward
CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE–
Stop into Paying It Forward, Glen
Ellyn’s newest ladies’ luxury con-
signment boutique, to find all the
brands you want for less—while
also shopping for a cause! 20% of
all proceeds are donated to local
breast cancer charities. With a
large selection of shoes, hand-
bags, dresses, workout clothes,
and more from brands like Gucci,
Burberry, Tory Burch, Hunter, and
Lululemon, you’ll walk out looking
good and feeling good.
546 Duane St., Glen Ellyn
www.payingitforward.life
(630) 450-6891
The Gnome Colony
BOUTIQUE– Come experi-
ence why people all over
Chicago and surrounding
suburbs are seeking out this
unique one of a kind shop-
ping destination! With
women's apparel in all sizes,
home decor, accessories,
jewelry, skincare, makeup,
fine fragrances and more,
you will see first hand why
women are flocking to this
shopping experience on
Main St. in downtown Glen
Ellyn! 485 N Main St, Glen
Ellyn, (630) 793-5284
Shawn Sargent Designs
CREATIVE BOUTIQUE–Treat yourself to an at-
home spa! Enjoy 15% OFF our handcrafted, all-
natural bath, spa and lotion products (now
available online). Relax with organic lavender
Satin Eye Pillows and a warm Sea Salt or Fizzy
Bath. Soothe your skin with Essential Oil Soaps,
Goat Milk Lotions and amazing Lotion Candles
– simply burn and apply warm lotion for that spa
feeling. Order your favorite scents online! Use
code TREATYOURSELF (thru 4/30). Receive
free shipping or local drop off and a gift with
every purchase.
501 Pennsylvania Ave, Glen Ellyn
(630) 474-9359 www.shawnsargentdesigns.com
Gather & Collect
THRIFT SHOP– Local neighborhood thrift
shop, packed to the rafters with an ever-
changing array of eclectic home goods
with a side order of snarky, fun, and edgy
novelty gifts. Offering a mix of vintage art,
books, pottery, industrial finds, upcycled
treasures, and global goods. With cele-
brated local makers in jewelry, soaps, can-
dles, stationery, and honey. You will enjoy
curated BOHO clothing, purses, scarves,
and ties. Specializing in Potentially Offen-
sives – patches, pins, stickers, mugs, and
inappropriate cards and political satire.
473 N. Main, Glen Ellyn, (630) 469-2558,
www.vintageshopglenellynil.com
Courier Travel
TRAVEL AGENCY– Their qualified experts have
been assisting travelers for nearly 30 years, plan-
ning every detail of unforgettable vacations and
seamless business trips to perfection. They have
personally been to destinations worldwide, stayed
at the top hotels and resorts, sailed aboard a wide
range of cruise ships and embarked on the most
memorable tours. They also have established re-
lationships with the travel industry's best cruise
lines, hotel chains and tour providers, enabling
them to provide special offers and amenities you
won't find anywhere else — even online. They help
you travel better. 532 Duane Street, Glen Ellyn,
(630) 469-0511, www.couriertravelinc.com
ON TREND
IN DOWNTOWN
The Prince’s Table
GIFT & COLLECTIBLES SHOP
Gracious Style for Castle and Cottage.
Showcasing the Best of American and
European Artisans.
Beautiful statement jewelry. A treasure trove
of unique gifts as well as engraveables from
baby cups to curated photograph frames
to serving trays all with a 1 -2 day turn-
around. Most trays include free monogram.
Premium cashmere wraps and scarves, lus-
cious candles and scents.
The perfect gift and free giftwrap awaits you
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530 Duane St, Glen Ellyn • (630) 469-4150
www.theprincestable.com
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Glancer Magazine • APRIL 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 17
DOWNTOWN GLEN ELLYN
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Camp Naper
For Grades 1-8
NAPERVILLE - Camp Naper offers kids
in grades 1-8 fun, unique, hands-on ac-
tivities, with advanced tracks for older
campers. With over 20 camps to choose
from, campers can mix it up with a new
camp each day in a Camp Naper Sam-
pler pack, or adventure for a full week in
one theme. All camps run from 9AM-3PM
and drop off begins at 8AM. For more in-
formation, call (630) 420-6010 or visit
www.NaperSettlement.org/Camp
Summer Camp ay B.R.
Ryall YMCA In Glen Ellyn
GLEN ELLYN-Few experiences are as spe-
cial as camp, where kids and teens have
fun while building self-confidence, gaining
independence and creating their own com-
munity. The B.R. Ryall YMCA summer
camps provide youth with supervised activ-
ities that nurture their spirits, challenge their
minds and strengthen their bodies—while
teaching values, teamwork, conflict res-
olution and leadership skills. Chose from
Traditional Full-Day Camps (K-8th); Billy
O'Donnell Basketball Camps (3rd-6th);
Summer Sports Camps (3rd-6th); Camp
Fantastik (ages 3-6); Boys Only Camp
(grades 2nd-4th)
www.brryallymca.org/child-care/camp
HoneyRock Camp
WHEATON–By design, HoneyRock
camp programs build upon each other
year after year, challenging campers with
appropriate responsibility to reveal and
nurture their God-given gifts. Away from
the distractions and pressures of every-
day life, campers can ask big questions,
learn how to navigate life away from
home, and see God at work in new ways.
This is what makes HoneyRock "a place
apart" - a powerful learning environment
for youth and young adults.
www.wheaton.edu/honeyrock/
summer-camp/
Summer Camp at
Geneva Park District
GENEVA - The Geneva Park District
offers traditional day camps, specialty
camps, gymnastics camps, nature
camps, and sports camps. Our camps
focus on providing opportunities to all
participants to grow personally by devel-
oping a positive self-image and learning
to treat themselves and others with re-
spect. Camps teach participants to ap-
preciate diversity, become better leaders,
and develop a variety of specific skills
and assets through various outdoor ex-
periences. For ages 3 to 18 years.
www.genevaparks.org/programs/camps/
18 • WESTERN SUBURBS •APRIL 2020 • Glancer Magazine
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#SUMMER2020
Glancer Magazine • APRIL 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 23
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Glancer Magazine • MARCH 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 25
WHAT MOMS LOVE
Mom’s Little Black Book
MONTHLY COLUMN
Buon Appetito!
I grew up surrounded by
women who loved to
cook! My mom, my
grandma, my aunts,
my cousins – we
have strong food tra-
ditions in our family,
and we love to eat –
especially pasta! Ho-
wever, after all these
years, the one thing I
never learned to do was
make homemade pasta; so, when
I saw Al Dente Pasta Artists would come
to my home and teach us – I was so ex-
cited; and although over the next couple
of months they will need to operate
slightly differently, they are going to be
posting pasta making and pasta projects
videos via www.facebook.com/aldente-
pastaartists/ with their own kids while we
all practice social distancing! So, join
them online from anywhere around the
world and have fun at home learning
from the best!
Soon enough, regardless of where you
live in the western suburbs – from Hins-
dale to Naperville to Wheaton to Os-
wego to Geneva, they will bring all the
equipment to your homes, pots, pans,
forks, ladles, ingredients - and – the Ital-
ian accent.
In our previous personal experience, we
all loved Monica and Valentina - who not
only brought their cooking expertise; but
also shared their passion, authenticity,
and genuine love for teaching others
about their Italian heritage. Tessa in-
vited a couple of her friends, along with
their mothers to join us in our session.
Three moms – three teenagers – zero
iPhones for two hours! Our hands were
busy mixing flour and egg to make our
dough from scratch. We then chopped,
grated, and sautéed items for our sauce
of choice, and proceeded to rollout our
dough through the pasta machine.
Next came the big aha! moment where
we sliced it and voila – we had noodles!
We were all so excited when we unrolled
the noodles and saw that we did it! We
actually made noodles! We then sat as
a group and enjoyed dinner
together and felt so proud
of our work! It was pos-
itively delicious and
such an enjoyable af-
ternoon for us moms
to spend with our
daughters!
As they say in Italy –
Esattamente perfetto!
Knead. Laugh. Eat!
OVERVIEW
Al Dente Pasta Artist Owners, Mon-
ica and Valentina are two Italian women
who moved from Milan 4 years ago and
love teaching the west suburban com-
munity how to make homemade fresh
pasta and the best sauce to pair with it.
They bring it everything and clean up ev-
erything – all you need to do is gather
around the table, roll up your sleeves
and get ready to knead your own dough,
laugh together, and eat an authentic
pasta dish made by you. For the time
being – join them online!
Al Dente Pasta Artists
(630) 636-1025
(954) 646-2571
www.aldentepastaworkshop.com
Hours: Call to schedule a time and date
that works best for you!
Price $: Purchase gift cards with $20 off
the prices shown on their website.
ABOUT THE WRITER
Naperville mom Kristen
Kucharski graduated
from Illinois State Uni-
versity in 1992 with an
International Business
Degree. She has two
energetic daughters and
her house is always full of
children. Kristen’s column titled, Mom's Little
Black Book, is a monthly feature written for moms
who are looking for ways to keep their kids busy.
Read her past columns at
www.glancermagazine.com/bloggers
April2020_28pp_Layout 1 3/31/2020 9:08 AM Page 21
4. THIRD STREET,
GENEVA
A stroll through Down-
town Geneva leads you
through historic store fronts
and dozens of charming Victorian homes
that now house over 100 unique specialty
shops and quaint eateries. Third Street is a
must for chocolate lovers. Find homemade
chocolates at Graham’s Fine Chocolates
and Ice Cream and amazing chocolate
sculptures by award-winning, Chef Alain
Roby at the All Chocolate Kitchen.
3. LOCKPORT STREET,
PLAINFIELD
Visit Downtown Plainfield for a
vibrant experience of shopping,
dining and entertainment. Share a moment
and a glass with friends at the Wine and
Cheese Co. or a treat at Hazel Marie’s Ice
Cream shop. Among a variety of restaurants
and bars is Station One Smokehouse (BBQ)
and Garage Band Brewing (crafted beer)
built in the historic fire station.
1. MAIN STREET, ST. CHARLES
Walk down the brick-lined streets along the
Nationally Registered Historic District, and
shop in those same buildings. Specialty
shops like The English Shop and Mad
Hatter Antiques will keep you browsing
for hours. When you are hungry, there
are over 25 restaurants in which to
choose. Take your pick from local pub,
patio or maybe a picnic on the river-
front.
4. MAIN STREET, DOWNERS GROVE
The perfect blend of historic down-
town and modern shopping/dining
is in this quaint, friendly area of
Downers Grove. Long-time busi-
nesses like Busy Bee Bakery, An-
derson’s Bookshop and Heritage
Florist are gems to visit along with more
modern boutiques and entertaining pubs
and restaurants. If there’s time, catch a flick
at the old Tivoli Theater, built in 1928.
2. JEFFERSON STREET, NAPERVILLE
You’ll find it all in Downtown Naperville. Na-
tional favorite shops such as Apple, Anthro-
pologie, and lululemon mix with local
favorites like Naperville Running Company,
Karisma Boutique, and Bows and Babes. Whatever
your taste buds are craving, they have, including
several options of pizza, Mexican, Italian, sushi,
burgers and steakhouses. You’ll need to visit many
times to try them all.
7. MAIN STREET, OSWEGO
Start your day with hand-crafted coffee and treats at The Vil-
lage Grind or visit My Sister’s Lil Donut Shop for its large va-
riety of donuts and much more. The vibe of local artists
permeates through this historic downtown next to the Fox River.
A craft beverage at the Oswego Brewing Company or lunch at Tap
House Grill is a welcome break in your adventure.
6. MAIN STREET, GLEN ELLYN
Discover unique dining experiences, shops and spas with small
town charm. Try original dishes and flavors at the Nobel House,
Maize + Mash and A Toda Madre, among others. Make sure to take
some time out to treat yourself at one of the many spas that are just
around the corner from all the fantastic boutiques and gift stores.
As we dream of better days ahead when we will be able to venture out and enjoy all that our beautiful towns have to offer, here is a list of what you will find
on some of the most cherished local blocks in the western suburbs. Rich with award-winning dining, exquisite chefs, quaint local cof
fee shops and one-of-a-
kind shopping experiences, many of the businesses you see lining our streets are also online and welcome you to follow them in social media to stay connected.
1.
LOCAL BLOCKS TO eSHOP + eDINE
6.
5.
4.
22 • WESTERN SUBURBS • APRIL 2020 • Glancer Magazine
7.
3.
2.
by Mindy Kyle, Features Writer
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April 2020
Town Beautiful
Vol 19 / Issue 183
Featuring the Best of West Suburban Chicago
Subscribe at www.GlancerMagazine.com
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