Glancer Magazine, April 2020

Award-winning Glancer Magazine is a west suburban Chicago area digital magazine delivering the best in community living.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

at The Prince's Table.

Trending Now: Romantic Valentines

Ad and Receive a Free Gift w/Purchase

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.

LOCAL BLOCKS TO eSHOP + eDINE

22 • WESTERN SUBURBS • APRIL 2020 • Glancer Magazine

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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