Chicagoland's Top Teachers Share Their Best Piece of Advice

If there’s one thing we know for certain in these uncertain times, it’s that children and young adults hold the key to a brighter (and hopefully safer) future. Beyond parents and caregivers, there’s no one more fundamental to the positive development of our kids than their teachers and school leaders. Golden Apple, a nonprofit dedicated […]

How to Talk to Your Kids About Mass Shootings

Talking to your children about tragedies such as the recent school shooting in Parkland, Florida, can seem impossibly difficult, especially when you’re still grappling with questions of your own. But, in the aftermath of the Florida shooting — in which a gunman killed 17 people and injured several more — having those tough conversations is […]

Love, Chicago Style: 3 Swoon-Worthy Real Chicago Weddings

Three sets of Chicago newlyweds share the stories of their unions, adding to the patchwork of personal, beautiful, and truly unforgettable ways our city’s sweethearts say I do. Natalie Stone and Caleb Pearson Chicago Botanic Garden, Aug. 26, 2017 When the universe sends you a sign, you take note — and if you don’t? No […]

14 Outside-the-Box Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas

This Valentine’s Day, we challenge you to think beyond the cards and chocolate roses and get a little more creative with a gift for your loved one. From shoes and theater tickets to snuggly blankets, we’ve picked some of our favorite gifts for the most romantic day of the year. Bonus: They all boast something extra special, from local […]

Where to Party Like It’s 2018

New Year’s Eve is a weird mix of wishful thinking and hard, cold reality. Wishful thinking: You’re going to have the best time of your life tonight because it’s New Year’s Eve and that’s how it works. Just stand there and good things will magically happen. Reality: You forgot to book a reservation/make plans/do any […]

11 Ways to Go Green With Your Gift Wrapping

This holiday season, consider giving the gift of sustainability. According to the EPA, from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day, household waste can increase by more than 25 percent. And between food waste, ribbons and bows, packaging, and shopping bags, this can mean a 1 million ton increase in landfills. Fortunately, you don’t have to sacrifice […]

Chicagoans Share Their Favorite Holiday Traditions

The way you and yours spend the holidays are the moments that define you as a family. And while some customs are passed down for generations, others are borrowed by friends, neighbors, and even strangers. To see how Chicago celebrates — and, perhaps, inspire new ways to toast the season in your own homes — […]