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So Many Unique Things Happening Here WHEATON–Improv. To many this word culminates a myriad of anxious feelings. After all, creating humor out-of-thin air must be left to the experts. How can people spontaneously create stories from audience suggestions? It is awe-inspiring. However, improv is for everyone. And just like anything worth achieving, it takes practice - a skill set, built over time. By learning the correct techniques, mastering the art of the ‘unplanned’ becomes second nature. Introducing: Westside Improv in downtown Wheaton. Westside Improv presents long-form improv shows and classes throughout the week. Themes range from Shakespearean plays to murder mysteries … and everything in between. Just like music, there are a variety of comedy genres. Finding styles and themes that speak to our unique preferences, helps draw us closer to this alluring art form. Each week, WI features a variety of teams from the Chicagoland area. Shows are Friday and Saturday nights; typically, featuring three teams. Cultivating humor into our everyday life is essential to our overall health and wellbeing. You don’t have to be the class clown or life of the party to try your hand in improv. It creatively propels us in many facets of life - school, work, family and friends. It teaches us to: be positive, spontaneous, take risks, connect with others, get out of our heads and celebrate failure. It’s perfect for kids who want to build confidence, social skills and learn acceptance. And it’s great for adults and working professionals who want to become more present, practice active listening and deepen collaboration. It’s the ultimate team sport! - Brianna Bartemeyer, Photos Submitted

UNIQUE IN SUBURBIA | All About Westside Improv of Wheaton

So Many Unique Things Happening Here WHEATON–Improv. To many this word culminates a myriad of anxious feelings. After all, creating humor...

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So Much to Love About this West Suburban Plant Shop Nature. It certainly has a funny way of grounding us. Don’t you think? We pick up on so many subtle cues from Mother Earth. Plants remind us to: trust the process, enjoy the journey, believe in tomorrow, find reassurance in new beginnings, keep growing, plant ‘seeds’… and be reminded that nothing.exists.alone. Alone. Do you think that’s why so many young adults invest time and resources in houseplants? In fact, houseplants surged in popularity during the pandemic. Whether you were innately blessed with a green thumb, plants & flowers have a palpable effect on our wellbeing. It’s the way they look, feel and smell. Bright greens invoke feelings of cheerfulness and relaxation. And research suggests plants are mood-boosting and restorative - simply put: they make us happy and healthy. If you’re in the market for some new leafy friends this Spring, we’ve got just the place - Grow Geneva ! GG is a charming plant shop in downtown Geneva; offering an assortment of planty goodness, plant accessories, gifts and party favors. Upcoming March classes include: Watercolor Roses, Spring Hat Embroidery, Houseplant 101, Houseplant 201 and Macrame Shelf. And don’t miss out on its Monthly Plant Club! As we continue to spend more-and-more time indoors, it’s only natural to crave pieces of nature inside! Notably, there is a huge biophilic movement in the commercial design industry - clients, employees and designers all understand the importance of connectivity. May we continue to inspire those spaces where we work, live and play. -Brianna Bartemeyer, Photos Submitted

UNIQUE IN SUBURBIA | Grow Geneva

So Much to Love About this West Suburban Plant Shop

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“All you need is Love. But a little chocolate now-and-then doesn’t hurt.” –Charles M Schulz Have you ever noticed that there is a hot chocolate scene in nearly every winter Hallmark movie? It’s official. There is apparently no better combo than winter romance and chocolate. Hallmark knows best. Whether it’s a seasonal favorite or timeless tradition, there is comfort associated with those cozy connections. And these cozy connections seemingly bring out the nostalgia in us all - memories of snow days, sledding adventures, ski trips, cold nights by the fireplace, strolls down Main Street and falling in love. Speaking of love, did you know that chocolate contains a natural, organic compound called PEA (or phenethylamine). Also known as the ‘love drug’. One thing is clear – America loves its chocolate. And we’ve got just the spot for you: Le Chocolat du Bouchard in Naperville. Let the love affair begin! Le Chocolat du Bouchard, located in downtown Naperville, opened in 2004. After the owner traveled to Europe, she fell in love with Paris. The lifestyle, culture, desserts, croissants … it was awe-inspiring. Once inside, you will sense the homage to Paris - the exposed bricks, elegant chandeliers, quaint cafe tables, warm hues and decadent chocolates all around. With over 30 specialty drinks and over 300 specialty chocolate items, guests delight in the variety of tasty treats. Its Espresso bar features: specialty lattes, cappuccino, hot chocolates, mochas and martinis. Its bistro features: crepes, soups, salads, signature desserts, milkshakes and ice cream. And don’t miss its chocolate shop and bakery! Must haves: Our Famous Carrot Cake and the Mexicocoa. -Brianna Bartemeyer, Photos Submitted

UNIQUE IN SUBURBIA | Le Chocolat du Bouchard

All you need is Love.......and Chocolate

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WITCHCRAFT & WIZARDRY WHEATON • APRIL 27 Embark on a captivating journey through Wheaton, Illinois on Saturday April 27, 2024 with Witchcraft & Wizardry: Murder by Magic! Perfect for groups of families and friends, each ticket to this extraordinary outdoor experience allows up to 6 adults to become detectives in a magical murder mystery set in a realm of sorcery and spells. Along the way, you'll hunt for clues, solve perplexing puzzles, and uncover the secrets of the city like never before. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure and be the first to crack the case! HIGHLIGHTS • 2-6 adults per team (kids play as extra for free) • Average Game Duration 2-3hrs • Start anytime between 9am-2pm • Just 1 ticket needed per team • Explore city streets like never before • Prizes to be won for five categories, including: best dressed and fastest team BUY WITH CONFIDENCE With the Flex Pass, there's no need to worry if you or one of your team can't make it on the day. You can exchange your ticket for any future event with no hassle. Simply visit online and add to the cart - you'll be able to add your Flex Pass, or you can find more information there. Enjoy! www.cluedupp.com/products/mbm-wheaton

UNIQUE IN SUBURBIA | Witchcraft & Wizardly: Murder by Magic

Embark on a captivating journey through Wheaton with Witchcraft & Wizardry: Murder by Magic!

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by Brianna Bartemeyer 'TIS THE SEASON TO VISIT THIS FESTIVE FARM It’s the most wonderful time of the year. But, what makes it so? After all, there’s much to celebrate throughout the year - birthdays, anniversaries, graduations and various holidays (to name a few). Yet, it’s different … magical … joyful. There’s a deeper sense of gratitude, generosity and kindness that fills the air. And just as Eddie Pola and George Wyle expressed in their 1963 classic Christmas hit, it’s a season associated with cherished traditions and beloved activities with those we love. If you are looking for a new tradition this holiday season, check out Sonny Acres Farm. Located in West Chicago, this family-owned farm began in 1883 as a small-produce farm. For the last century, they’ve built a destination that’s more than just a farm - a location the whole family can enjoy. Its all-new Christmas lights show (Big & Bright Trail of Lights Festival) features dazzling lights, delicious treats and a photo-op with the iconic ‘Leg Lamp’ (a must-see holiday attraction for Christmas Story fans!). Its Christmas Market invites guests to fun finds, unique gifts, festive music and tasty treats. Explore its freshly-cut Christmas tree lot; the varieties include: Fraser Fir, Balsam Fir, Douglas Fir, White Pine, Scotch Pine, Black Hills Spruce and Blue Spruce. And we can’t forget about everyone’s favorite North Pole visitor - Santa. We hope you can be part of this unique holiday experience. Cheers to making unforgettable memories with family and friends ... ‘Tis the Season! It’s sure to be … ‘the hap-happiest season of all.’

UNIQUE IN SUBURBIA | Sonny Acres Farms

'Tis the Season to Visit this Festive Farm

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by Brianna Bartemeyer FOOTBALL SEASON IS HERE! LISLE–As the colors change and temperatures change … one thing remains the same - America’s love of football. We celebrate inside our beloved stadiums, outside at tailgates, glued to our couch or venture to a favorite brewery. If you’re looking for a new brewery, we recommend Bubblehouse Brewing Company in Lisle. This soon-to-be-favorite brewery just celebrated its 2 year anniversary! After years of planning and saving, Bubblehouse opened its doors in the fall of 2021. This is a family-owned and family-friendly taproom (bring the kids!). Its patio is dog-friendly, too. There is a curated collection of board games to bring out your competitive & nostalgic spirit - Clue, Yahtzee, Outburst and Crokinole … just to name a few. Hungry? They’ve got you covered. Boom Box Burgers continues to be a patron favorite. This family-owned, pop-up tent is frequently on-site to serve up its delicious, made-to-order smash burgers. And its Pizza Phone is up and running - just walk up, place your order and Brasi’s Pizzeria will deliver. #genius As you cheer alongside fellow fans, there’s an ample amount of craft beer to enjoy. Currently enjoying: That Escalated Quickly (banana, clove spice & green pear), Sploot (coriander & orange peel) and Smoky Poofs (chocolate, coffee & rye spice). Be sure to try Tails of Rescue, too! This collaboration supports the West Suburban Humane Society’s mission (10% of every pint sold will be donated to WSHS). Be sure to check out BB’s calendar for upcoming events, live music and food truck schedule. Here’s to craft beer, good conversation and community.

UNIQUE IN SUBURBIA | Bubblehouse in Lisle

Football Season is Here!

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by Brianna Bartemeyer TINKER, A Children’s Boutique Fall certainly brings all the Feels. There is discernible nostalgia that permeates the air this time of year. The crisp autumn air, golden grass at our feet and breathtaking foliage has us holding on to each moment with familiar anticipation. Perhaps it’s the combinations that capture the essence of this beloved transitional season. Fuzzy sweaters and pumpkin-spice lattes. Apple cider donuts and hayrides. Velvet and corduroy. Football games and marching bands. And oh, the color palettes … bring on the aubergine, marigold, burnt orange, peacock, beige, mocha, sage and peach. These sophisticated hues have us swooning all season long. Whether you're stressed about what to wear for your family portraits, shopping for a gift or sprucing up your kid’s wardrobe - we’ve got just the spot! Introducing: Tinker, A Children’s Boutique. This charming children’s boutique, located in downtown Naperville, just celebrated its two year anniversary. Once inside, you will be swept away by the carefully-curated, heirloom-quality children’s products. Carrying over 50 brands, Tinker specializes in collecting unique pieces for ages newborn-8 years old. You will find brands from Europe, South America, Australia and the United States. Products include: apparel, footwear, books, accessories, nursery and toys. “One of my goals in putting this store together was to create a bit of nostalgia for the parents and grandparents who come through to purchase gifts for their children and grandchildren.” - Dani Spangler, Owner Maybe Amy Green (Rachel Green’s sister in Friends) was on to something when she aspired to be a Baby Stylist ... sign us up! Cheers to nostalgic finds for a nostalgic season!

UNIQUE IN SUBURBIA | Tinker, A Children's Boutique in Downtown Naperville

All the Fall Feels Being Felt Downtown Naperville at this Children's Boutique

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by Brianna Bartemeyer TEN FRIENDS IN NAPERVILLE ”I think that the most important thing a woman can have - next to talent, of course - is her hairdresser." -Joan Crawford Happiness. What is it? This elusive, fleeting and yearning emotion that we so desperately crave is all around. It’s not a destination - it finds us in moments. Moments like: a good book, a promotion at work, an impromptu conversation, the perfect pair of jeans, a relaxing pedicure, a perfectly-crafted latte, freshly-washed bed sheets, shared laughs with friends … the list goes on. We uniquely experience happiness in a variety of moments. And then there is the magical moment of a ‘good hair day’ … and that feeling, well that’s Happiness. And with it, confidence - you glow differently when you radiate with confidence. So if you’re looking for a place that specializes in styling techniques, transformative treatments and gorgeous hair, we’ve got just the spot! Introducing: Ten Friends Blow Dry & Style House of Naperville. Ten Friends is the ultimate blow-dry and style experience. TF provides the following hair services: 45-min shampoo/blow-dry/styles, special occasion styles, prescriptive treatments, deep-conditioning treatments, glosses and smoothing treatments. TF sources farm-to-shower products - focusing on naturally-derived ingredients that are both healthy and sustainable. Davines, an Italian company, is its proud partner. Its products are: formaldehyde-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free, soy-free and vegan. They offer a lash bar, makeup services, bridal services and private parties, too. Time to sit back, relax and enjoy a hot tea (or a glass of wine!) as they expertly style your unique hair to perfection. #HappyHair

UNIQUE IN SUBURBIA | Ten Friends in Downtown Naperville

Specializing in Styling Techniques and More

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KREMA COFFEE HOUSE IN PLAINFIELD ST. CHARLES–It complements pastries, toast and donuts. It pairs well with nestled reading nooks, the Sunday morning newspaper and conversation with friends. It’s suggested for first dates, morning boosts and awakening the senses. What is it? Coffee. Did you know 66% of Americans (surveyed in 2022) drink coffee every day? It’s officially America’s most popular beverage. Why the obsession? It’s part of our societal fabric. And if we examine the history of coffee, it’s actually quite ‘patriotic’ of us. What better way to protest the excessive tax on tea, than to redirect one's passion for drink? As the British say ... brilliant! Coffee became known as ‘America's National Drink’. Soon thereafter, coffee houses popped up and became gathering places … which still rings true today. Coffee lovers' brand loyalty is something that could spark the heaviest of debates (rivaling that of a 90s boy band debate) - but, all-in-all there is a need for supporting local economic growth. And local coffee shops are lifelines in our communities. A place for study groups, meet-ups with friends, business interviews, celebrations and gatherings. Introducing: Krema Coffee House in Plainfield. KCH opened in 2017 and roasts high-quality, small-batch coffee. Its focus is local - milk, produce, syrups and honey are sourced locally. They sell: coffee, tea, baked-in-house pastries, craft toasts, sandwiches and salads. Be sure to try the Brown Sugar Bacon Gouda breakfast sandwich, Honey Lavender Latte and Cinnamon Roll (Ronda Rousey approved!). This beloved coffee shop just expanded to Lockport in 2022, too. Enjoy the artwork, live music and unique lattes. Here’s to positive energy, shared experiences and fueled afternoon-pick-me-ups.

UNIQUE IN SUBURBIA | Krema Coffee House in Plainfield

One of the Most Unique Coffee Houses in the Western Suburbs

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TIME FOR SPARKLE: KIMMER’S ICE CREAM ST. CHARLES– When I have bad days, I just eat lots of Chocolate Ice Cream and dance to the Lion King soundtrack. It’s really odd, but it’s true. -Blake Lively When has ice cream not made a situation better? It simply has a way of melting away our worries. There’s comfort in the familiar. Not having a favorite ice cream flavor is like not having a favorite color - it’s part of our identity. For many of us, it’s nostalgic too. It’s running to catch the neighborhood ice cream truck or the celebratory-summertime treat you share with your teammates. If you’re on the hunt for locally-sourced ice cream, we’ve got the perfect spot! Introducing: Kimmer’s Ice Cream. This family-owned-and-operated ice cream shop has three locations - Elmhurst, St. Charles and Wheaton. In 2010, its first location opened in St. Charles. Kimmer’s homemade ice cream is handcrafted in single batches and frozen onsite at its Wheaton shop. They feature 17 Always Flavors (ie: served year-round) and countless Sometimes Flavors. With a recipe book that contains 200 flavors, they’re constantly perfecting and inventing. Be sure to try the Aztec Hot Chocolate and Parent Trap. Fun fact: they bake and roll their waffle cones onsite! And what’s a cone without a bit of sparkle? After all, Kimmer’s is the ‘Home of the Sparkle Cone’. If you’re looking for another excuse to wear your ‘The Eras Tour’ outfit, be sure to swing by Kimmer’s on Wednesdays - you will receive a FREE sparkle cone. We’re confident they’d be Enchanted to see your Bejeweled outfit.

UNIQUE IN SUBURBIA | Kimmer's Ice Cream Melts Away Your Worries with 3 West Suburban Locations

Time for Sparkle and More at this Charming West Suburban Ice Cream Shop

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by Brianna Bartemeyer A GLUTEN-FREE, NUT-FREE AND SOY-FREE CAFE “The optimist sees the donut, the pessimist sees the hole.” –Oscar Wilde ST. CHARLES–Satisfying and healthy. That certainly is a winning combination we look for in many facets of life. Over the years, gluten-free foods have been hit-or-miss. For some, gluten-free foods are simply a dietary trend. For others with health-related issues (ie: gluten intolerance and Celiac Disease), it’s a necessary lifestyle choice one must adopt. With a rise in food sensitivities and food restrictions, it can be challenging to navigate simple joys … like eating with friends, classmates and loved ones. While food is a nourishing necessity of life, it’s a catalyst for connectivity too - it brings us together. Yes, we find joy in the tastes and smells of food - but, also our associations … namely the company we share. Introducing: Brown Butter Cafe & Bakery of St. Charles. This gluten-free, nut-free and soy-free cafe & bakery opened its doors in November of 2022. They specialize in delicious, allergy-friendly donuts that are baked fresh daily - including some vegan options. Something for everyone! And its breakfast and lunch menu is served all day. Popular must-tries are its Original Salted Brown Butter Donut, Cinnamon Roll Cake, Cheddar Jalapeno Bread and Build-Your-Own Breakfast Casserole(s). Its bread is sourced from Breadsmith in St. Charles and its beans are sourced from Fresh Ground in Geneva. We are feeling very optimistic that this will be one of your new favorite spots! Enjoy a taste of the sweet life … we think you will like them a hole lot. -Photos Submitted UNIQUE IN SUBURBIA ST. CHARLES

UNIQUE IN SUBURBIA | Brown Butter Cafe & Bakery in St. Charles

A Gluten-Free, Nut-Free and Soy-Free Cafe & Bakery

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ICONIC BLASTS FROM THE PAST WILL BE PLAYED BY POPULAR TRIBUTE BANDS THIS SUMMER AURORA–Music is the soundtrack of our life, whether we love rock, pop, country or disco– or everything in between. When we listen to music from way back when, it takes us back to moments in our life, amplifying them as if we traveled back in time. If you are like me, then you love learning about opportunities that invite you to ride the musical waves of yesteryear, like this concert weekend that’s planned for this summer. Pop music fans can party like it’s 1999 - or 1969 - when Aurora’s Paramount Theatre presents Purple Reign: The Prince Tribute Show, Friday, August 11 or the return of The Happy Together Tour featuring The Turtles, Little Anthony, Gary Puckett & The Union Gap, The Vogues, The Classics IV and The Cowsills, Sunday, August 13. Tickets to both concerts, playing on the same weekend this August, are on sale now. You won’t want to miss these exciting musical performances delivering songs from yesterday that we know and love at beautiful Paramount Theatre. Grab your besties and reserve your tickets today! Most importantly, remember to enjoy the moment and enjoy to its fullest. For tickets and information, visit paramountaurora.com call (630) 896-6666, or stop by the Paramount Theatre box office, 23 E. Galena Blvd. in downtown Aurora, 10am-6pm, Monday through Saturday, and until show time on show days. For group discounts, contact Melissa Striedl, melissas@paramountarts.com or (630) 723-2461. ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT AURORA

UNIQUE IN SUBURBIA | Aurora’s Paramount Theatre Invites You to Ride the Musical Waves of Yesteryear

Iconic Blasts from the Past will Be Played by Popular Tribute Bands this Summer

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