Burlap table runners, cupcakes, flowers in mason jars, food trucks—trends in entertaining come and go, just like trends in fashion. We asked some of the best local event planners for the inside scoop on this year’s hottest entertaining trends. Here’s what the in-the-know hostesses will be doing at their parties this season. Trend #1: Drop-Off […]
Most of us can feel it when we’re in one, yet can find it difficult to identify the specific elements that make a home great for entertaining. What gives a space its warm, inviting ambiance? Is it the lighting? The size of the space? The availability and arrangement of seating? To get to the bottom of what makes a space ideal for hosting, we […]
Make It Better’s Best of 2015 drew more than 105,000 verified votes across 10 categories. Share your thoughts with us on social media using the hashtag #MIBBestof2015. Handyman Get Dwell Need help with that home repair checklist? This four-time winner’s got you covered. 1046 Gage St., Winnetka, 847-922-3418 Interior Decorator Jeannie Balsam LLC A second-time reader […]
There’s something so special about gathering good friends and family around your dinner table. Good food, candlelight, the right music, stimulating conversation and plenty of laughter—those are the ingredients for a great dinner party. To make your next soiree really memorable (and enjoyable for you!), we asked a few gracious hostesses around the world for […]
We love escaping into a good movie—especially if it has great set design! Who didn’t want to be cocooned in Meg Ryan’s charming shabby-chic marina-view apartment in “Sleepless in Seattle”? And, we’ve been dreaming (along with the rest of the collective female psyche) of a houseboat on Lake Union since 1993. Swoon-worthy sets are half […]
Tired of your house looking, well… tired? Much like our closets need a fresh dose of fashion sense from time to time, our homes can benefit from a facelift once in a while. Here are eight books that will inspire you to get any redecorating project off the ground. The Bee Cottage Story: How I […]
Layers bring a room to life! Without them, even the most beautiful space will remain a soulless showroom full of things. It’s like setting a table with gorgeous linens, fine china and spectacular centerpieces and then skipping the food! After many hours spent poring over images of stunning interiors that nail it, we discovered ten […]
“I’ve always loved the idea of living in a beautiful farmhouse,” explains the owner of a century-old four-bedroom ranch with an English country vibe in the village of Golf. Located on a nearly one acre lot, the rambling four-bedroom house, which was originally built as a stable, has a painted brick exterior with a slate […]
Pamela Matiosian’s new boutique Persimmon offers a space for the community to be inspired by the beauty of art. Filled with exquisite artwork, jewelry and accessories, Persimmon showcases a plethora of unique creations. Persimmon is also a place where the community can create art. The Food & Art Series provides workshop participants the opportunity to gather […]
With Memorial Day behind us, those planning on entertaining outside must seize the moment. Whether a big bash is in the works or a more intimate gathering, having the outdoor spaces prepped and ready is key. Jeff Hester of Hester Painting & Decorating is busy this time of year, helping homeowners get their outdoor spaces in […]
