“I’ve always thought of Christmas as a magical holiday,” interior designer Ruthie Ryan explains from the Lincoln Park row home she shares with her husband, Rich. “It’s a moment to relax, decorate and be with family.” The couple, who returned to the city in 2009 after raising their three daughters in Glenview, is famous among […]
It wouldn’t be the holiday season without Scrooge, George Bailey and the Sugar Plum Fairies appearing on local stages. But November and December also bring other theatrical gifts, including some promising comedies and dramas that have nothing to do with Santa Claus. “You Can’t Take It With You“ Nov. 6 – Dec. 13 A huge […]
Skip the scented candle, and ditch the tea towels. Hostess gifts are usually given to women who entertain—probably a lot—so give her something delicious that she can serve at her next soiree. Better still, give her something locally produced, which is fresher, more chic and more thoughtful. Here are some of our favorite ideas: […]
‘Tis the season for holiday entertaining—and holiday messes. Luckily, we have a solution that is both beautiful and easy to clean. The Jacquard weave, French table linens from Table Manners will transform your table into a holiday masterpiece without the hassle of a normal tablecloth. These tablecloths, manufactured by Garnier Thiebaut, boast the easiest maintenance […]
If you got a late start on your holiday shopping, we’ve got a last-minute gift idea that will last a lifetime. A College Illinois!® Prepaid Tuition Plan. Enrolling your future student in a prepaid tuition plan can help you financially prepare for college and can help them focus on the goal of getting into […]
So you’ve been invited to a holiday cookie exchange…that’s great news, right? Who wouldn’t want to be a part of something that’s both yummy and fun? Except you don’t want to show up with another plate of Toll House cookies or brownies from a box. That just wouldn’t fly. Here are three easy-to-follow recipes from […]
It’s the season for a party, and you’ve been collecting recipes for months, planning every last detail of the grand event.
Simple and clean, layered and textured, over-the-top glam, or cool and eclectic. Decorating your home for the holidays is as personal as the style you employ year-round.
Looking for a new holiday treat that’ll impress the masses? Try biscotti! 1 1/3 cups all–purpose flour ¾ cup granulated sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder ¼ teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon grated orange zest ½ cup pecans 1 large egg at room temperature 2 ½ tablespoons melted butter 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice 1 teaspoon vanilla […]
It’s a challenge to give your Valentine an original gift. This year surprise your honey with something personal and homemade. It’ll be meaningful, yet cost you less than $20. Frame of 14 Type or handwrite 14 detailed reasons why you love your loved one. A decorative font or lovely piece of paper will […]
