Best of 2018: Celebrations

In a city as vibrant as Chicago, making everyday decisions — where to order dinner, get a haircut, push your kids on the swings — can feel downright dizzying. Enter our (eighth annual!) Best Of awards: You shared your favorite spaces and places, we tallied the votes, and together we’ll celebrate all that makes our […]

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 […]

Chicago’s Coolest Venues for Private Parties

No matter the celebration, it’s always especially memorable when the event takes place at a unique venue. These Chicago and North Shore locations are hidden gems, perfect for your next wedding, anniversary party, shower, bar mitzvah or birthday bash. Greenhouse Loft Located in the Platinum LEED-certified Green Exchange building, Greenhouse Loft is Chicago’s most sustainable […]

How to Build the Perfect Cheese Platter

Cheese platters don’t have to be boring. With just the tiniest bit of effort (meaning think outside the pre-cut Costco cheese box), you can bring some wow to this entertaining standard. It’s time to up your cheese game. Props are important to the overall success of this DIY, so start with a great cheese board. […]

Fun Ways to Break the Ice at Your Next Party

When you’re throwing a party, whether it’s a small gathering of friends or a blowout bash to celebrate a milestone, you want your guests to have a great time and truly connect with one another. Sometimes, though, it can be difficult to get even the most articulate and friendly adults out of their comfort zones […]