Keep It Casual: Simple Holiday Party Ideas

Dressing up in your festive best for elegant holiday soirees is something most of us look forward to every season. But the holidays are also about slowing down and spending time with family and friends, so don’t feel pressured to make every gathering a formal affair. Here are three holiday party ideas for those times when you just want to keep it […]

Treat Yourself Today with Shop For Good

Why not take a minute on #TreatYourselfTuesday to gift yourself during the season thats all about giving and giving back. These items from Shop For Good, our e-commerce site that gives back 10 percent of the proceeds to a carefully vetted nonprofit, are the perfect way to treat yourself but not feel too guilty. 1. […]

Chicago Culinary Bookstore Serves Up a Menu of Holiday Gifts

With world-class restaurants on virtually every corner, it’s no surprise that Chicagoans like to dish up top-notch nosh at home too. Now there’s a new foodie bookstore to cater to their discerning palates. Located on the hip Halsted Street shopping corridor in Lincoln Park, Read It & Eat carries everything from well-known encyclopedic reference cookbooks to […]

The Hottest Toys for the Holidays

It’s time to start making that list and checking it twice! We’ve rounded up the season’s hottest toys for everyone on your nice list. It’ll make holiday shopping child’s play. Peanuts Happy Dance Snoopy Good grief! The new Peanuts movie means a whole new generation has gone nuts about the Peanuts gang. This dancing Snoopy […]

Vote for Your Favorite 2015 Gingerbread House for Charity

Congratulations to Molly M., who received the most votes in our Gingerbread Building for Charity event. Molly will receive a $250 prize compliments of A. Perry Homes and will donate the money to Saints Faith, Hope & Charity Catholic School. Entranceways were lined and the roofs were frosted with care at A. Perry Homes and […]

2015 Gift Guide: Travel

Whether globetrotting or commuting, these great gifts will ensure your favorite traveler is stylish and comfortable. 1.Kaehler 1920 The Palmer Duffel: Featuring Horween Leather accents, this duffle, beautifully crafted in Chicago, is the perfect gift for the sophisticated voyager. $1,195, Kaehler Luggage, various locations  2. D. Porthault Blue Trefles Trio Zippered Cases: Keep things organized in your luggage […]

2015 Gift Guide: Jewelry

No outfit is complete without that perfect accessory. Find beautiful jewelry that’s great for gifting in our Shop For Good. 1. Long Crystal Strand Necklace: Perfect for women of all ages, this crystal necklace adds just the right amount of glitter and sparkle. $84, Juniper Boutique, Shop For Good 2. Burdeen’s Kohl Children’s Museum Bangle Bracelet: Moms will […]

2015 Gift Guide: Kids

Surprise the little ones in your life with one of these delightful gifts this holiday season. 1. Doorway Puppet Theater: Kids (and adults!) are inundated with screens these days. Cultivate creativity by giving children a puppet theater for some imaginative, unplugged play. $50, Becky & Me Toys, 620 Grove St., Evanston, 847-492-1030 2. Monkey Canvas Messenger Bag: Boys and […]

Tradition-Worthy Holiday Activities in Chicago and the 'Burbs

‘Tis the season to find your family’s favorite way to play, have fun and create warm holiday memories. You’ve probably done Christkindlmarket and Macy’s windows — so start some new traditions with these great holiday activities in Chicago and beyond. Ready? Set? Do. And re-do year after year! See Holiday Lights From New Heights Chicago […]

2015 Gift Guide: Guy Gifts

The men in your life can always use something stylish, but don’t forget about the fun. 1. Elephant Tie: Add a bit of whimsy and color to your guy’s wardrobe with an elephant-patterned tie. It comes in a few great color combinations. There’s also a version featuring crabs for the seafaring fan. $95, J.McLaughlin, 567-A Lincoln […]