As it turns out, I’m fortunate that my parents couldn’t afford new furniture for the rambling old Georgian colonial home where they raised five children.
Instead, they furnished it with “used” pieces, which means I grew up “shopping” with them at antique shows and auctions and living in spaces decorated with beautiful bargains which eventually became valuable treasures.
Thus started my love affair with antique and art shows. My collection of antique purses began when my parents allowed me to purchase a special purse at every event for a few dollars. I still use those purses for special occasions today.
In recent years, my favorite antique and art shopping has been the evening of the Preview Party for the annual Chicago International Art, Antique & Jewelry Show benefiting the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago. It’s the best antiquing of the year in Chicago, benefiting the best rehab facility in the country. The socializing is pretty terrific, too.
This year, the Preview Party will be held at Navy Pier Thursday evening, April 24, with the show continuing April 25–27. For the first time ever, it’s produced by the renowned Palm Beach Show Group. I’m so excited! Peruse the eye candy in this catalogue to understand why.
In addition to my usual hunt for unique, mint-condition antique purses and other treasures, I look forward to visiting the following North Shore dealers there:
- Lee’s Antiques (Winnetka)
- Crescent Worth Art & Antique (Lake Forest)
- Harvey Pranian Gallery (Evanston)
I’m also particularly proud and honored that Make It Better is a media sponsor of this premier show benefiting a visionary research facility. This combines my love of antiquing with my passion for championing philanthropic best practices to the audience Make It Better holds dear.
Please join us there. I’ll happily point out my favorite antique purses to you.
Event Details:
Chicago International Art, Antique & Jewelry Show
Navy Pier, Festival Hall A
600 East Grand Ave., Chicago
Hours:
- Friday, April 25: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Saturday, April 26: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Sunday, April 27: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Monday, April 28: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
