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Glancer Magazine
Glancer Magazine We Love Local

Chicago West

Featuring West Suburban Chicago...At a Glance!

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LOCAL DESIGNER AND UPHOLSTERER SHARES ON FOLLOWING HER DREAM Since Bre was young, she would join her grandmother in sewing, and her grandmother would always encourage her to fearlessly explore the unknown. In addition, she would spend countless hours with her mother, who owned an antique booth and had a deep love for collecting heirlooms. In 2018, Bre took a leap of faith and opened Knot Just Upholstery. She continues to find joy in working with various textures and colors of fabrics, transforming classic pieces with rich histories into modern masterpieces. Bre shares her insights on the latest trends, stating that mixing patterns and bold prints will be popular in Spring 2024. She believes that taking risks with vibrant colors and rearranging furniture can truly revitalize a space, giving it a fresh and new look. Inspired by Alexander McQueen, she sees beauty in everything. Beyond her business, Bre values a healthy work-life balance. Previously working as an Outdoor Recreation Guide and Montessori Teacher, she now cherishes quality time spent with her husband and their two children, Lincoln (15) and Harper (10). She also actively contributes to her community by serving as a commissioner on the Geneva Park District board for the past five years. -Kristen Kucharski, Photos by Mike Catuara

COVER STORY | Meet Bre Cullen of Knot Just Upholstery in Geneva

Local Designer and Upholsterer Shares on Following Her Dream

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LOCAL MOM, HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL AND ENTREPRENEUR SHARES HER PASSION FOR SUCCULENTS Married with five children (18, 11, 11, 6, and 6).  Alongside her role as a mother, Markita holds a bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a specialization in Health Care Management.   After dedicating herself to being a stay-at-home parent, Markita found herself facing a gap in her work history, so began to explore her creative side through wood sign parties and desert plant workshops. What started as a personal space in her garage for herself and her twin daughters, who are autistic, soon evolved into a passion for succulents. With the support of her husband, Quinton, not only did it provide mental healing for Markita, it also offered sensory exposure for her girls.   This became the driving force behind Markita's flourishing business, Blooming Succulents .  She believes that if your dreams don't scare you, they're not big enough. With this mindset, she has successfully blended the workshop concept with horticulture, creating a unique platform for others to express creativity.   Markita says incorporating plants into home design will be trending for 2024. By simply selecting a stylish pot and adding a plant, one can effortlessly introduce greenery into their space, bringing a sense of wholeness and positive vibes inexpensively.   With her boundless passion, Markita finds joy in connecting with others within her community. She is inspired by the unity and support that defines the west suburban community.  - Kristen Kucharski, Photos Submitted

COVER STORY | Meet Markita Young of Oswego

Local Mom, Healthcare Professional and Entrepreneur Shares Her Passion for Succulents

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Lauren's upbringing in Naperville has instilled in her a deep sense of pride and attachment to her hometown.   Right out of college, she embarked on a remarkable journey, showcasing her magnetic and bold personality through her career as a world-traveling designer of exquisite boutique hotels in glamorous destinations like Russia, the Virgin Islands, and Dubai. As she matured and embraced the joys of love and motherhood, Lauren yearned for stability and established her own venture, Lauren Collander Interiors  within the walls of a stunning 1865 Victorian home on Jefferson.     Her commitment to preserving the city's success  is further exemplified by her active involvement on the board of the Downtown Naperville Alliance .   Lauren's passion for renovating a home to match the way a client wants to live  shines through her work contributing to the restoration of the Historic 1904 Bauer Mansion . With a keen eye for detail, she skillfully incorporated timeless materials like wood and marble, while also respecting original features such as stained-glass windows and wall paneling.   One of the hallmarks of Lauren's approach is her dedication to incorporating her clients' cherished possessions into an eclectic design, finding innovative ways to repurpose them within the overall aesthetic.   Lauren envisions homes that reflect a down-to-earth elegance in 2024, tailored to the unique needs and desires of each individual. From golf simulators to champagne bars, bold wallcoverings to specialty lighting, she strives to create spaces that truly resonate with her clients. One notable project she recently completed was a Music-Lover's Family Abode , where she incorporated built-in cabinetry with deep drawers for sheet music, a recording studio, and even a jazz bar.   Every day brings new excitement and opportunities for Lauren. She recently fulfilled a long-held dream by   designing an iconic home by the world-famous   architect Frank Lloyd Wright on Delavan Lake in Wisconsin .  With a rockstar team by her side, she feels grateful for the chance to collaborate with her recently retired husband, allowing them to strike a harmonious balance between work and family life.

COVER STORY | Meet Home Design Enthusiast Lauren Collander of Naperville

Lauren's Passion for Renovating a Home to Match the Way a Client Wants to Live Shines through her Work

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THIS LOCAL SHOP OWNERS PASSION FOR HOME DESIGN INSPIRES THE COMMUNITY Creative, curious and caring, Kathryn has always loved learning new things.   Her dad was an artist and an engineer, he did everything from painting and sculpting to designing electrical circuits, which inspired Kathyrn’s ability to try all things unique and different.  Her career captures 17 years in marketing, chef training, full-time motherhood, jewelry designer, and currently the owner of Bench492 .   “I just love the craftsmanship and history of older pieces and one of my very favorite things to do is go on road trips to find one of a kind treasures,” Kathryn says.   “I love the thrill of the hunt and the store is constantly evolving and the merchandising is changing so there is always something new to see.”   She believes one of the trends in 2024 is to be a little less trendy.  Getting ideas from Instagram and Pinterest is great, but she reminds customers to express their own personality by combining old and new; collecting things you love into your decor so it will feel more like an extension of you.   “To spruce up a room easily, first declutter it,” she adds.   “Then incorporate the 4 P's -- Pictures, Pillows, Plants, and Paint.  Don't overlook how adding a plant or flowers in pretty containers can really warm a space and give you that cozy factor.  Rearranging furniture can also give you an instant facelift."   Married with two college aged daughters, Kathryn feels blessed to use her creativity to give back   by donating proceeds from shopping events and Oyster Shell ring dishes to support students in attending school through Partners in Mission  in Uganda.   She also volunteers with DuPage PADS , and is on the Board of the Glen Ellyn Downtown Alliance.

COVER STORY | Meet Kathryn Alcock, Owner of Bench 492 in Beautiful Glen Ellyn

This Local Shop Owner's Passion for Home Design Inspires the Community

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Reveling in the Special Moments, this Loca Designer is Passionate About Expression through Branding & Marketing GENEVA/MAPLE PARK–Widowed at the age of 26, Tanya (Meier) Smith learned early on to live with no bounds after suffering the profound loss of her first true love.  That’s what makes the words of Emily Dickinson speak to her so much….it will never come again is what makes life so sweet, so she has learned to take the chance, grow, evolve, set goals, allow space to change, and always remember that the hardest decisions in life often lead to the most rewarding places! Against the odds, Tanya opened her first storefront Addelise (named after her daughters, Addison (13) and Elise (11), at the end of the pandemic, and helps clients with visual branding, web design, print design, storefront and merchandise design.  She is passionate about expressing their perseverance and desires through branding and online marketing mediums. Now married to her husband David of 14 years, everything is about family which also includes two mini pygmy pet goats, a Quarter Horse, a Mini Schnauzer, and a cat. They are an outdoors family into motorsports, horses, 4-H, and community events. “Despite the bumps in the road and continuous moments of self-doubt, my greatest moments are knowing I am doing something right as a mom, having my daughters come to me and share their life with me,” Tanya shares. “As you enter your 40's, you release so much of what doesn't serve you, and allow yourself to focus on what really is important. Tanya hopes to always revel in the special moments, travel to Germany and Ireland, horseback ride on a cattle drive, and someday own a Mini Cow Farm! -Kristen Kucharski, Photos Submitted

COVER STORY | Tanya Smith of Geneva/Maple Park

Reveling in the Special Moments, this Loca Designer is Passionate About Expression through Branding & Marketing

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Loving, Straightforward, and Hardworking, this Entrepreneur in the Party Space is Also Heavily Involved in the Community DOWNERS GROVE–Originally from New York, Kirsten has lived in Downers Grove for the past 10 years with her husband Tom, and three kids, Brian (13), Drew (12), Kacie (6). She recalls her Sweet 16th birthday, when her mom planned the most incredible day designed to make each guest feel important.  Kirsten’s mother passed away shortly before the party date; however, the imprint of the carefully constructed details left a lasting impression. Although bittersweet, Kirsten was empowered by the life event and found the courage and strength to pursue her hopes and dreams and carry on the mantra.  She lives by the words of Maya Angelou, “I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel”.  She eventually opened Signs & Love Event Rentals, a professional party rental company for high quality, custom made rental props and designs for any event.  In her thirties, she worked a lot of nights and weekends; however, now that she is sailing into her forties, Kirsten is loving every moment being fully present for her kids and cheering them on in whatever the season may be.  Loving, straightforward, and hardworking, Kirsten is also heavily involved in the community, donating time and products from her company, as well as joining Chamber 630 and maintaining excellent relationships with the Downers Grove schools.    As she sores through her forties, she has high goals to give back as much as possible and take more vacations with her family while the kids are still young. -Kristen Kuchasrki, Photos by Mike Catuara

COVER STORY | Kirsten Swanson of Downers Grove

Loving, Straightforward, and Hardworking, this Entrepreneur in the Party Space is Also Heavily Involved in the Community

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Being Decisive, Optimistic, Empathetic, and Confident Allows Her to Balance Family and Her New Business Venture NAPERVILLE–The majority of Lauren’s life has been spent in Naperville where she and her husband Mike now also raise their three children .   Most weekends you will see them around town at little league games, on the basketball court, at a swim meet or volunteering at St. Thomas the Apostle Church  within the Children Ministry.   Prior to her forties, Lauren was a teacher at a therapeutic school which pushed her to become a better, well-rounded person, and share those techniques on the home front to create happy, healthy relationships with her husband and children.      With a solid family foundation, she is now the co-owner and manager of Pro Image Sports  in downtown Naperville.   Most days, she is in the store running the floor, getting to know the customers, and helping them find their favorite teams’ apparel and accessories. Her overall ability to be a decisive, optimistic, empathetic, yet confident woman allows her to balance family and work while allowing grace for mistakes, as she realizes they too are vital to growing and accomplishing goals when anchored by hard work and commitment. Lauren hopes to grow their new adventure into a successful destination for sports fans around the Chicagoland area while also ensuring personal time for building meaningful relationships with friends and family, exploring new travel destinations, and the hopes of purchasing a lake house one day.   -Kristen Kucharski, Photos by Mike Catuara

COVER STORY | Lauren Wierzbinski of Naperville

Being Decisive, Optimistic, Empathetic, and Confident Allows Her to Balance Family and Her New Business Venture

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She Believed in Empowering Herself and Creating Her Own Happiness YORKVILLE– At 40 years old, Erica is the proud owner of Mama K's Quality Comfort Cuisine  and  Klean Freaks  house cleaning services in Yorkville, as well as the mother of Destiny (21), Iden (18), Gabriel (14), and grandmother of Saylor (9 mos).  After working 9 to 5 careers and grueling sales jobs, Erica dreamed of being her own boss, providing what she constantly overheard her clients and colleagues longing for   - -  home cooked meals after the end of a busy work day.   Blessed with accrued business skills, the natural ability to cook, a discerning palate, and the imagination of creating unique dishes, Erica launched her own company at 35 years old. .  She believed in empowering herself and creating her own happiness.  Erica is a strong, loving, hard working woman who enjoys creating comfort meals and snacks. Beyond her catering service, she hopes to one day also own and operate a restaurant or food truck, put her salsa on store shelves nationwide, and build her forever home with a pole barn and the most amazing commercial kitchen ever!   “My abuela always told me, full bellies make happy hearts,” she says.   “And when I see people enjoying my food it makes me happy because I am a part of a new memory for those people.”   Erica takes great pride in the ability to donate meals and cleaning services to those in need while always making time for her kids travel sports, family road trips, game nights, and hosting fabulous parties! -Kristen Kucharski, Photos by Laura Ramirez-Nunez

COVER STORY | Erica Kauffman of Yorkville

She Believed in Empowering Herself and Creating Her Own Happiness

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CELEBRATING THE SEASON WITH 15 FASCINATING FACES OF 2023 Each December we feature 15 Fascinating Faces of the Year, highlighting west suburban residents who are making a difference in the lives around them. Each featured resident was nominated by our readers and selected by our editorial team. Each story is inspiring and touching in its own unique way. We are honored to announce our list of 15 Fascinating Faces for 2023 and are grateful to be given this opportunity to share these stories. Chef Roberto Avila Dawn Smith Dr. Jue He Dr. Kalli Prater Dr. Lili Burciaga Elizabeth Rago Laura Ayala Mallory Pettinger Miles Evans Minzie Choi Olivia Hurt Brent Copstead Lita Tomas and Jean Marie McNamara Wendy Hayum-Gross Jenni Zielke GLANCE THROUGH THE DECEMBER ISSUE

COVER STORY | 15 Fascinating Faces of the Year

Honoring West Suburban Residents Who Have Made a Difference in their Community this Past Year

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Bringing the Charm of Yesteryear Back to Life through Her Designs GLEN ELLYN/AURORA–Jocelyn Reimann, a vintage enthusiast and owner of The Green Door , has been spreading the joy of a vintage Christmas in the Chicago area for over two decades. With her business nestled inside Warehouse 55  in both the Aurora and Chicago location, she brings the charm of yesteryears back to life through her meticulously curated collections. Reimann's love for the character, patina, and historical narratives of older items is evident in her work. Her own home, a harmonious blend of new and old, leans heavily towards the latter, mirroring her passion for vintage items. However, it's during the festive season that Reimann's passion truly comes alive. To her, a vintage Christmas is the pinnacle of joy and nostalgia. Her collection of Shiny Brites, old lights, bottle brush trees, Santa mugs, tinsel, and more are not just holiday decorations; they are vessels of joy and carriers of happy memories. These vintage treasures, when arranged into displays and vignettes, can transform any space into a winter wonderland straight out of a storybook. Residing in Glen Ellyn, Reimann eagerly anticipates decking her halls each year. The moment when she unpacks her Christmas decor is filled with anticipation and excitement. Each item, handpicked and cherished, is a testament to her love for the vintage aesthetic and her dedication to recreating that magical, old-world Christmas charm. Through The Green Door, Reimann invites everyone to experience the magic of a vintage Christmas. Her work goes beyond selling items; it's about sharing a piece of history, reviving the age-old Christmas spirit, and creating a sense of joy and nostalgia that only a vintage Christmas can provide. For those looking to add a touch of vintage charm to their holiday celebrations, a visit to The Green Door at Warehouse 55 promises a magical journey back in time. -Lindy Kleivo, Photos Submitted

COVER STORY | A Very Vintage Christmas, Meet Local Designer Jocelyn Reimann

Bringing the Charm of Yesteryear Back to Life through Her Designs

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HIS LIFELONG DREAM OF OPENING A RESTAURANT COMES TRUE GENEVA/ST. CHARLES–Long time west suburban resident, Mario Grado realized his lifetime dream of opening a restaurant in his early 20’s.  Along the way he worked as a CNA in healthcare, an appliance repair technician, and earned his Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration with concentrations in Small Business Management and Entrepreneurship.  His vision evolved into a wine bar and ultimately Vintage 53, a specialty marketplace, cheese shop, and wine bar in the heart of downtown St. Charles.  Offering artisanal cut-to-order cheese, charcuterie, wine, serving boards, glassware, and gifts, Vintage 53 also specializes in an assortment of curated to-go trays for up to 15 people and grazing tables for larger groups boasting choices from over 50 artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, pickled items, crunchies, fruits, veggies, and jams.  “I love seeing people creating memories, and attaching them to a place that I created,” he proudly shares.  “I slice every meat and cut every cheese to order, and our guests can select as many or as few items from our ordering cards as they like.” This unique venue is half market, half experience!  Take and go, stay and eat, or try a cheese pairing class every other Sunday - Wine and Cheese, Whiskey and Cheese, or Board Building! At only 41 years old, Mario has found his happy place professionally and personally, living his absolute best life in the western suburbs along with his partner and his perfect Pug.   –Kristen Kucharski Photos by Mike Catuara

COVER STORY | Mario Grado Owner of this Specialty Marketplace, Wine Bar and More Shares

Lifelong Dream of Opening a Restaurant Comes True for Local Resident

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OWNER SHARES ABOUT HER PASSION PROJECT LOCATED IN LISLE LISLE–Autumn is a Lisle resident of 30 years, an active Lisle Township  Trustee, mother of three, and self-proclaimed “queen of connecting the dots”, gathering friends and family over her almost-famous gumbo.  As the owner of The Collective LHE + Makery , Autumn has worn many hats, and lived a life full of experiences. “I wanted to create a space where you could shop inspired and create in community,” she says. “This was initially inspired by the book The Red Tent .  In biblical times, women would go to the red tent for birthing, illness, etc., and the other women would take care of them.  Regardless of the strife that may exist outside of the tent, inside you were sisters.  When people come in the first time, they never leave a stranger. It's just the energy of the shop that “feels” different from other retail shops.” Her mission is to have you shop inspired and create in community.  Autumn’s lifestyle boutique features goods that touch all aspects of life with a commitment to woman owned brands, hosting live interactive events, and providing space to small makers and products that give back to charitable causes, such as The Sharing Connections . The Collective LHE & Makery is her first brick and mortar business bringing her love of creating experiences, event planning and curating beautiful apparel, home decor and gifts into a creative space.  Trending for 2023 are semi precious gemstone earring and beaded jewelry, kimonos, graphic tees, custom and personalized wood trays, the Soit La lumiere candle club, and custom curated gift boxes, with the added bonus of free local delivery.

COVER STORY | Autumn Geist, Owner of The Collective, A Lifestyle Boutique + Makery

Owner Shares About Her Passion Project Located in Lisle

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Latest Issue
March 2024

Glancer Magazine March 2024

Glance through the Pages

of Your Community Living Magazine Today! 

► March 2024 Issue, Western Suburbs

► DuPage Feature

► Kane Features

► Kendall Features

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