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HOME ESSENTIALS
Spring Trends 2020
March is always a favorite for our readers. From beautiful kitchens to the latest in
home design trends, and so much more. Our March pages bring a smile to many
year after year, inspiring their springtime home updates.
This month’s issue is themed Home Essentials, and as you turn the pages you will
adore the countless highlights that our talented writing team has included for you.
From our cover stories featuring Local Kitchens to Admire and Springtime Ready
Realtors to Know, to our 7 Spectacular Home Design Showrooms to See, each fea-
ture is just as inspiring as the next.
You’ll also love our recurring features– such as Kristen Kucharski’s Dining Delights
where she highlights restaurants that “feel like home”. Savory & Sweet Sisters share
about a new eatery in downtown Lisle, and Mindy Kyle highlights a very special
home-inspired charity in her To Give, To Inspire column.
Page after page will leave you anticipating next month’s issue. Be
sure to subscribe to have the magazine sent directly to your
home. You’re going to love all that is being planned for the year!
Enjoy and
thanks for reading.
Lindy Kleivo
Publishing Director, West Suburban Area
www.GlancerMagazine.com
www.GlancerDaily.com
TM
TABLE OF CONTENTS
March 2020
5 Hello From Glancer Magazine
7 5 Things to Do
9 Scene Around Suburbia
10 COVER: Local Kitchens to Admire
13 Spring Home Enhancement
14 Local Realtors to Know
16 Literary Locals
15 Local Business Spotlights
16 To Give, To Inspire
18 Dining Delights
19 Savory & Sweet Sisters
20 On Trend Downtown Glen Ellyn
22 #SUMMER2020: Camp Guide
24 Kid Stuff
25 Mom’s Little Black Book
26 7 Spectacular Showrooms to See
PUBLISHER
Glancer Magazine, Inc.
PUBLISHING DIRECTOR
Lindy Kleivo
EDITORIAL | Print + Digital
Kristen Kucharski Columnist / Writer
Mindy Kyle Columnist / Writer
Stephanie Schmoker Dining Critic
Tiffany Schmoker Dining Critic
SALES / MARKETING
Lindy Kleivo Publishing Director
PHOTOGRAPHY
Mike Catuara Features Photographer
Mike Mantucca Event Photographer
PRINT + DIGITAL MONTHLY
A West Suburban Themed Issue Featuring
the Best of West Suburban Chicago
DIGITAL CONTENT | Daily + Weekly
A Mobile Responsive Website at
www.GlancerMagazine.com, Also Glancer Go-To
Guide, Glancer Magazine’s Online Marketplace +
Event Site Connecting Residents & Businesses
COMMUNITY FEATURES
Press Releases, Local Events, Community News
editorial@glancermagazine.com
ADVERTISING
Print & Digital Advertising
advertising@glancermagazine.com
SUBSCRIPTIONS
Receive the Printed Publication Monthly (12x/yr)
www.glancermagazine.com
PUBLISHED BY
Glancer Magazine, Inc.
80 Main Street, Suite C
Sugar Grove, IL 60554
(630) 277-8887
www.glancermagazine.com
Glancer Magazine, highlighting the best
of DuPage, Kane & Kendall Counties, is
produced by Glancer Magazine, Inc.
Glancer Magazine, You’ve Been Glanced
and the Glancer logo are registered trade-
marks of Glancer Magazine, Inc. All rights
reserved. Print and digital magazine repro-
duction in whole or in part is strictly prohib-
ited.
WEST SUBURBAN CHICAGO
Featuring West Suburban Chicago
March 2020
|
Vol 19
Home Essentials
This month we feature Local Kitchens to
Admire, Springtime Ready Realtors to
Know and so much more– our pages focus
on home essentials for the season and so
much more. Subscribe today online at
www.GlancerMagazine.com
©Copyright 2020
All Rights Reserved
Glancer Magazine, Inc.
Glancer Magazine • MARCH 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 5
March Features
WWW.URBANECHOSHOP.COM
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6 • WESTERN SUBURBS• MARCH 2020 • Glancer Magazine
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2. SPRING VINTAGE SHOP HOP
AT VINTAGE MARKET • MARCH 6 & 7
NORTH AURORA–Head to the Vintage
Market in North Aurora on Rt 31 for this fun
shopping event. From unique treasures
to antique finds, you will find many different
inviting displays at this multi-level vintage
shop. For more details visit
www.facebook.com/THEVINTAGEMARK/
MARCH 2020
5 Things to Do
1. DOWNERS GROVE WINE WALK • APRIL 30
DOWNERS GROVE–The 3rd Annual Wine Walk
Downtown Downers Grove is Thursday, April 30,
5-8:30pm. Shop your way around downtown
Downers Grove while enjoying 15 1oz tast-
ings of wine. Discover new downtown busi-
nesses and delicious wines. Tickets are
$35 and will be available at www.down-
towndg.org. Tickets are limited so act
fast. This event did sell out last year!
www.downtowndg.org
Glancer Magazine • MARCH 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 7
4. PLAN FOR SPRING HOME UPDATES AND VISIT THIS
10,000 SQ. FT. KITCHEN & BATH SHOWROOM
NAPERVILLE– Recognized as a premiere remodeling company,
this 10,000 square foot showroom is truly inspiring. Family
owned and operated since 1996, HomeWerks specializes in full
service remodeling. The kitchen and bath displays are inter-
active, allowing visitors to experience many product features first
hand. With the focus of providing high quality products, profes-
sional installation and exceptional customer service, Home-
Werks has been a welcomed addition to the Naperville
community. HomeWerks Kitchen and Bath • 1154 E. Ogden
Avenue, Naperville (866) 265-8895 • www.myhomewerks.com
3. CHICAGO HOME SHOW
NAPERVILLE, LISLE,
ST. CHARLES EVENT DATES
The Home Shows, Inc Chicago Home
Show brings homeowners and con-
tractors together in a family-friendly
setting close to home. Since 1976
The Home Shows, Inc in Oswego
has been working in the con-
struction area with a focus on
marketing. They are a family
owned and operated business
providing some of the best ex-
perience, most creative and the
most shows produced in the Chi-
cago suburban area. They have
produced hundreds of events.
March 14 & 15 •
Sheraton Naperville-Lisle
March 21 & 22 •
Kane County Fairgrounds
March 28 & 29 • Darien Sportsplex
www.chicagohomeshows.net/exhibitors/
5. RON ORY COMMUNITY
GARDEN PLOTS
NAPERVILLE–Plant and tend your
own garden this year at the Naper-
ville Park District’s Ron Ory Com-
munity Garden Plots! Full-size and
half-size plots are available for
rent. Organic and raised ADA plots
also are available. It’s a great way
to grow fruits, veggies and flowers
– especially if your home garden-
ing space is limited. Registration
information will be forthcoming in
the 2020 Spring Program Guide or
you can view details online at
napervilleparks.org/gardenplots.
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8 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MARCH 2020 • Glancer Magazine
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PAVE Fashion Show Fundraiser (Feb 8)
Nearly $20,000 was raised for PAVE on Saturday Feb 8. It was a powerful even-
ing and the room was filled with beautiful people, incredible fashion and food,
luxury cars and cocktails, and a whole lot of passion for creating change and
leading the way in the national movement in shattering the silence of sexual vi-
olence.
The stunning philanthropic fashion show, produced by Creative Director, Alicja
Modela and Events, was hosted at Naperville’s Italian Autos and featured fashion
designers from Project Runway and the Oscars Design Challenge, including,
Elda de la Rosa, Borris Powell, and Shernett Swaby who premiered new styles
and trends on the red carpet. Justin Roman, the Chicago Bulls entertainment
host and radio DJ, along with Whitney Reynolds of PBS and iHeartRadio, hosted
the live auction to raise funds benefitting PAVE (Promoting Awareness and Victim
Empowerment).
The funds raised will be used to support the new program launch at area high
schools for sexual violence education beginning at Lake Park High School in Ro-
selle the week of March 16th.Photos by Mike Catuara Invite Us to Your Next
Event www.GlancerMagazine.com
scenearound
Suburbia
You’ve Been Glanced!
Visit Us Online for Photos from this Event
www.glancerdaily.com/scene-around-suburbia
Glancer Magazine • MARCH 2020• WESTERN SUBURBS • 9
SCENE AROUND TOWN
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IInnssppiirreedd bbyy VVoogguuee LLiivviinngg,, RReemmooddeelliissttaa
JENNY LYTLE, DOWNERS GROVE
Jenny spent a lot of time on Instagram for inspiration: Vogue Living, Williams
Sonoma Home, One Kings Lane, deVOL kitchens, and Remodelista, to find the
perfect modern home with vintage / classic design elements to complete their
new kitchen this past April.
She worked with Oakley Builders in Downers Grove to create a clean look en-
suring plenty of cabinets to hide all her cooking gadgets; as well as ensure a
light and bright space with a wall of windows so she can look outside and ap-
preciate the changing seasons. Jenny most treasures her La Cornue range
where her grandparent’s teapot sits. Jenny looks forward to creating memories
with her husband and two children in the heart of their new home.
10 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MARCH 2020 • Glancer Magazine
Kitchens
COVER STORY
by Kristen Kucharski
Photos by Mike Mantucca
to Admire
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LISA CLEAVER, GLEN ELLYN
Being a Realtor for 15 years, Lisa has seen a lot of kitchens and knew
exactly what features she wanted for own her busy family of four. She
was grateful for designer Susan Klimala at The Kitchen Studio in Glen
Ellyn who helped meld all her dream elements into a beautiful, functional
design.
Lisa loves her fun bar area and beverage fridge; appliance garages on
either side of the stove; the pull-out cabinets; the tile mural behind the
range and the glass cabinets with in-cabinet lighting; the gold accents;
and the mitered 2” countertop on the island.
The open concept of the kitchen and large island make for the perfect
place for the family to gather and catch up each day while dinner is being
prepared.
Glancer Magazine • MARCH 2020• WESTERN SUBURBS • 11
COVER STORY
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12 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MARCH 2020 • Glancer Magazine
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Glancer Magazine • MARCH 2020• WESTERN SUBURBS • 13
Spring Home♥
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AVAILABLE AT URBAN ECHO SHOP – Vintage, rustic
and farmhouse chic, these metal planters will add the per-
fect touch to your porch or patio decor this spring. Many
to choose from online at Sugar Grove-based Urban Echo
Shop. Also, choose from an adorably chic array of bird-
houses that will add charm to your outdoor living space.
Free shipping for orders over $50. Shop for apparel, ac-
cessories, home decor & more. www.urbanechoshop.com
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Blend classic country charm
with a timeless white kitchen,
garnish with brightly colored
fruits and flowers and watch
the compliments flow right in.
Native Trails 30” Concrete
Sink in “Ash”Finish, $1,668
www.nativetrails.net
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COMFY & STYLISH – From breathing
life into a little-used corner to providing a
handy spot in the bedroom for that
reading nook you’ve always wanted, ac-
cent chairs bring personality and versatil-
ity to spaces both big and small. $250+
www.wayfair.com
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CLEAN & ELEGANT – These
versatile vases add the perfect fin-
ishing touch for your traditional or
farmhouse-inspired home. These
decorative accents are a great ad-
dition to any living room end table,
dining room table, or entryway
console table. Add a few
stems of your favorite
flower to give it that
personal touch. Available
at your favorite craft or
home decor shop.
EENNHHAANNCCEEMMEENNTT
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Penny O’Brien
Baird & Warner, Naperville
Penny has lived in six states with her husband and two children and was a relo-
cation client herself when they moved to Naperville 19 years ago. Since then,
she has immersed herself into the community sponsoring neighborhood events,
supporting the Waubonsie Valley's Color Run & Silent Auction, and participating
in various gym membership to enjoy overall health and wellness with the benefit
of good friends and great comradery.
She is high energy and brings lots of hustle to her real estate career which re-
sults in repeat and referral business. Penny is a Certified Staging Consultant,
Sellers Representative and Relocation Specialist, and has earned the Innovative
Property Marketing Award; Founder's Club Award; Top 1% Sales & Units Award;
and accrued over $29 million in sales in 2019. Her digital marketing and online
presence, in combination with open houses and print media offers sellers the
ultimate marketing exposure for their home.
Penny is present and trendy and focusses on keeping her marketplace relevant,
even incorporating lifestyle videos for her high-end listings.
In a constantly changing real estate market, she has the flexibility and know-
with-all to be always in front of the next big movement. -Kristen Kucharski
14 • WESTERN SUBURBS• MARCH 2020 • Glancer Magazine
Realtors to Know
SPRINGTIME READY
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Chris Cash, Keller Williams Infinity
Naperville and West Suburbs
Chris always wants to be remembered by her clients and the community as a
person who comes from contribution – providing customer service that lasts a
lifetime while creating relationships that become like family. She recalls assisting
her clients in purchasing a late 1800's farmhouse style home in Geneva. To-
gether they discovered the history of the home as well as some hidden treas-
ures. She feels so fortunate to have helped them with the renovation details.
Her background in Advertising and Interior Design allows her to find creative
ways to market homes and professionally stage her listings which ultimately
brings more showings and higher offers. See also assists her buyers in furnish-
ing their new homes.
With the Spring Real Estate Market around the corner, Chris suggests clients
contact her 4-6 weeks prior to wanting to put their home on the market and take
advantage of her "12 Step Preparation List"; therefore, ensuring a stress-free
move.
Regardless of where you are moving, Chris can match clients with their dream
home anywhere across the Americas, Europe, Africa and Asia. Referrals to va-
cation destinations like Turks & Caicos, Mexico, and Honduras are her favorite.
For every sale, Chris donates to the local humane society.
Susan Colella
Baird & Warner, Naperville
Susan’s education and background in Sales and Marketing, along with her
strong business sense, negotiating skills and design abilities provide the com-
petitive edge she needs in the Chicago area real estate market. As a Certified
Luxury Marketing Specialist, Certified Relocation Specialist, and Certified Stag-
ing Consultant, she adds renewed inspiration by attending seminars with Tom
Ferry, Brian Buffini, and Matthew Ferrara to name a few.
According to Susan, it’s never too early to start preparing your home for the
Spring market with a neutral color palette including creams, whites, and neutral
grays and incorporate the help of a professional stager to maximize space and
presence. She reminds clients to also think about the exterior; such as her most
memorable listing in West Tamarack of Naperville that had a vacation style back-
yard inclusive with an inground pool, gazebo, and outdoor fireplace which ulti-
mately fostered the quick sale of the home.
When Susan is not working, she enjoys spending quality time with her two amaz-
ing daughters and boyfriend enjoying a meal at her favorite restaurant, Santo
Cielo. She also loves yoga and playing piano; as well as supporting local char-
ities such as Cal’s Angels, 360 Youth Services, and the Good Will Network.
Stories by Kristen Kucharski, Photos by Mike Mantucca Unless Submitted
Glancer Magazine • MARCH 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 15
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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
16 • WESTERN SUBURBS• MARCH 2020 • Glancer Magazine
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
KAREN BEDORE, ANOTHER LIFETIME
Aurora resident, Karen Bedore is a huge fan of the medieval/Renaissance time period,
especially in Italy that fostered many amazing artists and musicians. The combination
of that love and being a big fan of Doctor Who, inspired a curiosity of going back in time
to meet some of the greats and see the world through their eyes. “I am a hopeless ro-
mantic,” says Karen, “and with my husband being an artist, the subject is close to my
heart.”
Another Lifetime is the story of twenty-two-year-old Aria Carucci who was left stunned
that a recent discovery of a work from fifteenth-century artist Enzo Benenati was ac-
companied by a sketch of a woman who could be her twin. Her research to uncover the
truth takes a universal turn and slides her back in time to 1459 Florence. Thrown to-
gether by chance, Aria and Enzo fall in love, only to be at the mercy of the hands of fate.
The book is the first book in a trilogy series. Enzo’s Story, the second book was released
in 2018, and the final book in the series will be released later this year. Another Lifetime
and Enzo’s Story are currently available through Amazon.
ELLEN SHUBART, WHAT’S WITH CHICAGO?
Life-long Chicago resident, Ellen Shubart, has had an
interest in history, architecture and preservation for a
good part of her life. With her B.A. in American His-
tory, M.A. in African-American History and M.S. from
the Art Institute of Chicago in Historic Preservation
along with her journalistic background, she was a
natural to be tapped to pen the Chicago book in
Reedy Press’s What’s With series highlighting differ-
ent cities. What’s With Chicago? highlights the his-
tory of Chicago but goes more deeply into the
lesser-known events and practices of the city. “I in-
cluded, for example, Chicagoans’ practice of putting
out folding chairs on the street to “call dibs” on their
parking spaces,” says Ellen, “and I focused a good
deal on the foods of Chicago because that reflects
its immigrant heritage.”
Now retired, Ellen is a docent – unpaid volunteer – at the Chicago Ar-
chitecture Center and hosts tours in and around the city. She finds the stories and history
of the city’s architectural styles so fascinating; she knew it would be imperative for her
to include them in any book she would write about Chicago’s history.
Along with being available on Amazon and in local Barnes and Noble bookstores, look
for Ellen and her presentation at one of your nearby libraries. -Mindy Kyle
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GET TO KNOW V FUSION STUDIO
GENEVA–V Fusion Studio trainers (pictued above) take consideration to increase
your quality of life when creating classes. Local area owner, Rachel Kowal, is
currently pursuing her master’s degree 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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Glancer Magazine • MARCH 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 17
COMMUNITY NEWS
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18 • WESTERN SUBURBS• MARCH 2020 • Glancer Magazine
A ROOF OVER
YOUR HEAD
OF PLAINFIELD
Naperville’s Show-
alter Roofing,
founded by Dale
Showalter in 1979,
believes they have
found their calling in
providing for the need
of a safe place to call
home. Serving the com-
munity has always been important
to Showalter from the very beginning,
so in 2014, the company formed an
official 501(c)3 organization they
named A Roof Over Your Head and
base out of Plainfield. This not-for-
profit would be able to take on larger
projects, fundraise and make a
bigger impact on the people they
serve by providing full roof replace-
ments, roof repairs, household re-
pairs, wheelchair ramps and many
other accessibility features to those
in need.
“Coming home to somewhere safe
and secure at the end of the day,
makes the struggles many people
face that much easier to overcome,”
says CJ Martin, President of A Roof
Over Your Head. “Providing needed
accessibility makes a huge difference
in being able to live, cook, and bathe
unimpeded by your home.” CJ re-
calls the story of a local veteran they
served years ago that was wheel-
chair bound and forced to use what
was essentially an outhouse be-
cause his home’s bathroom was not
accessible. The addition of a few
ramps and grab handles allowed him
the opportunity to care for himself.
Early on, A Roof Over Your Head did
a handful of repairs and 1-2 larger
projects a year, but with the help of
Dave Haidle, a local master car-
penter, pastor and longtime friend of
Dale’s, the number of
projects the organi-
zation could take
on grew. Dave al-
most single-
handedly
completed well
over a hundred
tasks, repairs and
jobs for A Roof Over
Your Head before
passing away suddenly in
August 2018. Since his pass-
ing, they have re-structured the or-
ganization and joined other
not-for-profits to multiply efforts and
invest in making needed homes safe
and functional. Last year, Showalter
Roofing received the National Roof-
ing Contractors Association Com-
munity Involvement Award amongst
3,500 companies from all 50 states
and 35 countries.
For more information on volunteer-
ing, donating or attending an event
for A Roof Over Your Head, head to
www.donatetoaroof.org or check
their Facebook page @donatetoa-
roof.
Mindy’s March Giving Inspiration:
It’s the start of spring cleaning. Clear
out and donate clothes, home items,
and books that you no longer need.
ABOUT THE
WRITER
Mindy Kyle is
the owner of Be
Inspired Stu-
dios and is pas-
sionate 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 chil-
dren and the cutest dog in the land.
MONTHLY COLUMN
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community living
March2020_28pp_backup_Layout 1 2/18/2020 3:33 PM Page 18
March is all about home design and beautiful kitchens; but during renovations one
might seek a home cooked meal with fresh ingredients; so, enjoy the comforts of
these Feels Like Home restaurants throughout the Western Suburbs.
Enjoy a Sunday roast like your grandmother used to make at one of Kane County’s
most unique restaurants. The Balmoral Restaurant in Campton Hills, owned by
Colin Smith, is modeled after the dining halls of Balmoral Castel in Scotland right
down to the place settings of golden cutlery, fine crystal, and banded dinnerware
depicting scenes of Scottish flora and landscapes.
Located at 116 South Main Street, in the heart of downtown Lombard is the simplest
of all types of home architecture and the most distinctive, a white Colonial style
house. Known as The Alice Gray House by the Lombard Historical Society,
this home is now ROSEMARY and JEANS, a locally owned and operated, family-
friendly, new restaurant serving menu items with ingredients that strive to be locally
sourced and only natural.
What many people don't know about Katy's Dumplings in Westmont is that it's
named after the owner's wife. Since 2007, Katy's Dumplings has handmade their
noodles and dumplings, in addition to the traditional cold dishes found in the front
fridge. Its recipes are passed down from generation to generation originating from
a small village in Northern China.
YiaYia’s Café in Hinsdale honors grandmothers around the world by serving you
the finest home cooked meals with generous portions, warm-hearted service and
only the best and freshest ingredients.
Additional freshness comes from the recently opened, Stolp Island Social Sea-
sonal Kitchen and Steakhouse in Aurora, next to the Paramount Theatre. This
restaurant is the product of multiple generations of restaurateurs dedicated to the
art of food and hospitality with a commitment to sustainability sourcing from local
farms and ranches serving the highest quality food. -Kristen Kucharski
Visit www.glancermagazine.com/diningdelights for more unique articles just like this
one, highlighting themed area restaurants.
Dining
+ ENTERTAINMENT
FFeeeellss LLiikkee HHoommee
WEST SUBURBAN DINING
Glancer Magazine • MARCH 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 19
DINING + ENTERTAINMENT
Caffe di Moda
1012 Burlington Avenue, Lisle
www.caffedimoda.com • (630)541-6375
Owners: Joe and Nicole Di Braccio
A TASTE OF ITALY IN LISLE
You don’t have to travel to Italy anymore for the perfect croissant or to share a
cappuccino and conversation with a friend in the piazza. In downtown Lisle’s
new development area is an Italian Café that will transport you across the
ocean. Having lived in Italy Joe and Nicole Di Braccio missed the café’s they
frequented. They dreamt of the slightly sweet pastries, simple deli sandwiches
and a cup of Lavazza coffee. Their dream came true last June 2019 when they
opened the door to Caffe di Moda. Although they have been open less than a
year, they are a favorite among locals. With exceptional service, fresh food
with imported and locally sourced ingredients and an impressive space it is
clear the Di Braccios except nothing less than the best.
Upon entering Caffe di Moda you are first struck by the design and use of
space. The light pours in the large glass panels while the smells loft through
the air teasing your appetite. Artwork from local artists and vivid stripes adorn
the walls. The large outdoor patio will bring many people together this summer
like the piazzas Joe and Nicole remember so fondly from Italy.
Caffe di Moda offers breakfast and lunch options along with catering. The crois-
sants are buttery, flaky and delicious. Options include classic, chocolate and
apricot. The imported savory Gouda filled croissant is just perfect. Rustic Ital-
ian bread toasted and topped with strawberries, ricotta, and white cream bal-
samic is light and slightly sweet and is the perfect accompaniment to a
cappuccino. For something a little salty and sweet try the salted butter caramel
swirl. For a little morning energy enjoy the egg bites, breakfast paninis or
power bowl with eggs, chicken, sweet potatoes, avocado, and sweet peppers.
The sandwiches are simple and allow the flavors of the main ingredients to
come through. Salami, capicola topped with fresh mozzarella and giardiniera
on focaccia makes up the Palermo. The Chicken Pesto and Veggie Caprese
are a few other tasty options.
Joe loves being part of something bigger and looks forward to find-
ing more ways to vibe with the community. He welcomes Moms
groups and having an eighteen-month old he understands
the need for a family friendly space. Let’s all meet up at the
piazza!
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.
SSaavvoorryy && SSwweeeett SSiisstteerrss
WEST SUBURBAN EDIBLES TO LOVE
March2020_28pp_backup_Layout 1 2/18/2020 3:34 PM Page 19
GLEN
Ellyn
20 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MARCH 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–Step into this creative
boutique and surround yourself with beautifully
handcrafted home decor, kitchen goods, lifestyle
and gift items. Find fresh, contemporary patterns
with a quirky vibe on items like the best-selling
Microwave Bowl holders, all made in-house and
designed by artist/owner Shawn Sargent. Also,
find unique items by local makers– from all-nat-
ural bath and body to ceramic vases and more.
Experience the kids’ classes, Sip & Sews, pri-
vate parties & beautiful rental space for events.
Inspire joy! 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 engrave-
ables from baby cups to curated photo-
graph frames to serving trays all with a 1
-2 day turnaround. Most trays include free
monogram. Premium cashmere wraps
and scarves, luscious candles and scents.
The perfect gift and free giftwrap awaits
you at The Prince's Table.
Trending Now: Romantic Valentines
Follow Us and Like Us - Mention This
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 • MARCH 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 21
DOWNTOWN GLEN ELLYN
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CCaammpp NNaappeerr
FFoorr GGrraaddeess 11--88
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
SSuummmmeerr CCaammpp aayy BB..RR..
RRyyaallll YYMMCCAA IInn GGlleenn EEllllyynn
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
HHoonneeyyRRoocckk CCaammpp
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/
SSuummmmeerr CCaammpp aatt
GGeenneevvaa PPaarrkk DDiissttrriicctt
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/
22 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MARCH 2020 • Glancer Magazine
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#SUMMER2020
Glancer Magazine • MARCH 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 23
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24 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MARCH 2020 • Glancer Magazine
Kid
SSttuuffff
Get the Wiggles Out at
DuPage Children’s Museum
NAPERVILLE–Keep little ones active with a
trip to DuPage Children’s Museum (DCM)!
Splash around in AWEsome Water, “fly”
through the Wind Tunnel, flatten a penny in
How People Make Things, let imaginations
run wild during Story Time, refuel in Bean
Sprouts Café, and so much more. The Mu-
seum is the perfect place to exercise both
mind AND body while having FUN! Coming
up on Saturday, March 28 - Get ready to
bug out at Bug Bonanza.
www.dupagechildrens.org, (630) 637-8000
Kids Night Out
March 20
NAPERVILLE–Enjoy a night out while
your child enjoys a night of fun activ-
ities at Kids Night Out! Held at Nap-
erville Park District’s Fort Hill Activity
Center, kids ages 4-12 are enter-
tained for three hours with dinner in-
cluded. Activities include games,
crafts and special treats that are
themed to the time of year. Register
online or at Fort Hill Activity Center.
Fitness members must register in
person or via phone to receive pro-
gram discount.
www.napervilleparks.org
Bunny Time 2020
Egg Hunts, Brunch & More
WESTERN SUBURBS– For all things Easter,
visit our Bunny Time! section online at
www.GlancerDaily.com where we will feature
fun events, activities, visits from the Easter
Bunny, easter egg hunts and more! You won’t
want to miss this extensive list of Easter hap-
penings throughout the western suburbs this
Spring. www.glancerdaily.com/easter-time
Healthy Kids Running Series Spring 2020
Geneva • April 26 – May 24
GENEVA– Healthy Kids Running Series is a five (5) week running
program in the spring and fall for kids Pre-K through 8th grade.
Each HKRS Series takes place once a week and offers age appro-
priate running events including the 50 & 75 yard dashes, the 1/4
mile, the 1/2 mile and the 1 mile run. Held at Gunnar Anderson
Country Forest Preserve in Geneva. www.runsignup.com/Race/IL/
Geneva/HealthyKidsRunningSeriesSpring2015GenevaIL
West Suburban Irish
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
March 14 • 10am-2pm
NAPERVILLE–The West Suburban Irish’s St.
Patrick’s Day Parade is family-oriented, cele-
brating the community as a whole, the diver-
sity of our community, and Irish-American
heritage and culture. Kids love it for the many
fun characters marching the streets of down-
town Naperville, along with the fun suprises
they receive along the parade route. Too fun!
www.wsirish.org
Bunny
Time
22002200
March2020_28pp_backup_Layout 1 2/18/2020 3:48 PM Page 24
Glancer Magazine • MARCH 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 25
WHAT MOMS LOVE
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MONTHLY COLUMN
SLIDES, SMILES,
SNACKS
By the end of 2020,
both of my daugh-
ters will be away at
college. I have
heard time and
again that I will miss
these days when my
house is completely
silent in just 4 short
months. It is fun to watch
our kids live their next chapter
and watch our friends’ kids also grow
and raise the next generation of
#MomsLittleBlackBook adventurers!
Newly opened Playroom Café Two in
Naperville was the perfect setting to
bring my daughter and her girlfriend
and her girlfriend’s precious little girl
to experience a new level of fun
through different eyes. I had no prob-
lem getting right back on the floor and
fully engaging in the action. Playroom
Café Two is bright and welcoming,
clean and charming. The owners are
personable and on-site, and the lay-
out makes it easy to see your kids
from any corner of the café.
The various sections are well defined
and offer enough variety of activities
to keep the little ones entertained for
hours. She loved the ball pit which
had the cutest wooden jeep structure
that you can drive, climb, or take the
slide directly to the balls. The wooden
train table was also a big hit, but I
most loved the baby/toddler area that
was slightly guarded by a sit-wall and
provided foam blocks, manipulatives,
and the ability to still see all areas of
the playroom - so if you have children
of varying ages, you are able to keep
on a eye on both at the same time.
The well-designed space also in-
cludes a perfect climbing structure for
older kids, plenty of ride-on toys, and
an amazing wooden pretend kitchen
area with realistic foods, utensils, and
a shopping cart!
Endless opportunities
to explore, burn
energy, and engage
with friends.
Overview
The café has an en-
vironmentally
friendly wooden play
structure, ball pit, natu-
ral wood toys, several
pretend play areas, sep-
arate baby area all designed for
children 6 months to 6 years. The
café serves coffee, smoothies, sa-
lads, paninis, and plenty of organic
snacks.
Playroom Café Two
2075 Calamos Court
Naperville, IL 60563
(630) 946-6879
www.playroomcafetwo.net
Hours: 9am to 6pm Monday through
Thursday; 10am-7pm Friday and
Saturday; 10am-2pm Sunday
Price $: $12 Child; $10 Sibling, Baby
6 months to 12 months $8 Monday
through Friday; $15 Child; $12
Sibling, Baby 6 months to 12 months
$10
Saturday and Sunday
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 chil-
dren. 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/
featured-bloggers
March2020_28pp_backup_Layout 1 2/18/2020 3:49 PM Page 25
4. THE PERFECT DESIGNS FOR
KITCHEN AND BATH, GLEN ELLYN
An 8,500 square-foot kitchen and bath
showroom at Drury Designs is filled to
overflowing with ideas and inspiration.
Everything you need to design your room is right
here. You can see and touch cabinets, countertops
and appliances while an expert designer assists you
with your dreams. 512 N. Main St., Glen Ellyn,
www.drurydesigns.com
3. CREATE YOUR
DREAM PROJECT
NAPERVILLE
A visit to the 10,000 square-foot
HomeWerks Kitchen and Bath design
center will inspire you to create that dream
room. The interactive displays allow visitors
to experience many product features first-
hand. Recognized as a premiere remodeling
company, HomeWerks will make sure your
new rooms will be everything you had hoped.
1154 E. Ogden Ave.,
Naperville. www.homewerksinc.net
1. THE KITCHEN OR BATH
OF YOUR DREAMS, NAPERVILLE
From traditional to modern and everything
in between, the team at Kitchen Master is
ready to help you make your design
dreams come true. Visit the 4,000
square foot showroom and let your
thoughts and ideas become the inspi-
ration for the perfect kitchen or bath.
600 Industrial Dr., Naperville.
www.thekitchenmaster.com
4. FOR THINGS IN LIFE THAT ARE
SET IN STONE, OSWEGO
Offering over 60 colors of in-stock
granite and marble and top name
brand quartz to look through, Gra-
nite Corp has something that will fit your
project. There is also an array of locally built cus-
tom cabinets for that original touch. Their selec-
tion changes weekly, so come visualize your
look. 1501 US Hwy 34, Oswego.
www.granitecorp.com
2. HOME RENOVATIONS AS DISTINCTIVE
AS YOU ARE, YORKVILLE
Bring your unique vision to life for kitchen,
bath and other home renovations at the Her-
itage Home Design Showroom. Peruse over
10,000 square feet with over 20 displays and count-
less samples, ideas and inspirations.
129 Commercial Dr., Yorkville
www.heritagehomedecor.com
7. THE LATEST TRENDS ON DISPLAY, St. CHARLES
Check out the latest trends from the popular design shows at
the Kitchen and Bath Design Store. Upon entering the store,
you will encounter a 10’ x 16’ foot wall full of unique and top-
quality cabinet hardware to rival the best displays. To custom-
ize your design, visit the quartz countertop and faucet/bath accessory
selection centers along with several cabinet and appliance displays.
2422 W. Main St., #1A, St. Charles
www.kitchenandbathdesignstore.com
6. THE ART OF FURNISHING YOUR WORLD, GENEVA
610 HOME is committed to offering sophisticated design to the
savvy and urban-minded shopper. Find something perfect for you
within the 4,200 square-foot warehouse filled with an eclectic mix
of new and vintage home furnishings and accessories.
610 S. First St., Geneva. www.610homegeneva.com
So, you are going to take the plunge this spring and start that home renovation you have been considering. Don’t know where to start to gather design
ideas? Look no further than some of our local showrooms that house massive selections and displays created specifically to inspire your creativity. Spend
an afternoon wandering through new and unique products and discover the elements that will make your dream room a reality.
1.
LOCAL SHOWROOMS TO SEE
6.
5.
4.
26 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MARCH 2020 • Glancer Magazine
7.
3.
2.
by Mindy Kyle, Features Writer
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March 2020
Spring Home Essentials
Vol 19 / Issue 182
Featuring the Best of West Suburban Chicago
Subscribe to Receive Every Issue at
www.GlancerMagazine.com
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