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  • OPAL EXTERIORS | Providing a Wonderful Remodeling Experience

    ENJOY A WONDERFUL EXTERIOR REMODELING EXPERIENCE West suburban-based exterior remodeling company Opal Enterprises wants you to enjoy your remodeling project! Recognizing that new roofing, siding and windows is often a once in a lifetime purchase, why should the experience be one that frustrates and angers you? Come visit their James Hardie Siding and Andersen Window showroom and you will also see the words “Have a Wonderful Remodeling Experience” splashed all over the walls as they have developed this mission statement into a company culture. Opal Enterprises has raised the bar in expertise with installing specifically James Hardie Fiber Cement Siding, Andersen Windows and GAF brand roofing. Over the last 20+ years in business they’ve evaluated what they do best and made it a target focus to work on the how we do it the best. Opal Enterprises sought out to strengthen their training and relationships with the manufactures who have certified them as their preferred contractor, all so that your home is remodeled right the first time! Opal Enterprises Showroom 127 Ambassador Drive, Suite 159, Naperville Info@opalenterprises.net • (630) 355-6557 www.opalexteriors.com

  • COVER STORY | Realtor Mom: Ewelina Rafael of Batavia

    Her Story is a Testament to the Beautiful Blend of Motherhood and a Thriving Real Estate Career BATAVIA–Ewelina is a dedicated realtor from Batavia, Illinois, with Coldwell Banker Realty. Her story is a testament to the beautiful blend of motherhood and a thriving real estate career spanning 7 years. Ewelina's busy household, overflowing with love and companionship, includes her two daughters, aged 24 and 17, three stepsons, and a delightful mix of furry friends. Juggling client calls amidst family commitments and orchestrating showings around vacations, Ewelina exemplifies adaptability and dedication. Her genuine care for both clients and loved ones resonates through her approach, rooted in empathy and integrity instilled by her mother. Beyond transactions, Ewelina's passion lies in creating memorable experiences for families house hunting in the Western Suburbs—transforming each search into a joyful exploration of communities, forging lasting connections, and guiding them towards their dream homes with unwavering support and personalized care. Get to know more about Ewelina in her own words.... The Balancing Act How do you balance being a fantastic mom and a top-notch realtor in the West Suburbs? Seamlessly blending motherhood and real estate is all about adaptability and dedication. Whether it's answering client calls while cheering on my daughter at a dance competition or scheduling showings around family vacations, I make it work. My clients understand that family comes first, and they appreciate the genuine care and attention I give to both them and my loved ones. It's about finding balance and being fully present in every moment, whether it's negotiating a deal or attending Friday night football games. From Mom to Mom Can you share a heartwarming story of helping a family find their dream home in the West Suburban area? Recently, I had the honor of helping the Anderson family find their dream home in our community. They were looking for a place with enough space for their growing family and a backyard for their children to play. After weeks of searching, we found the perfect home that checked all their boxes. Seeing their faces light up as they walked through the front door was truly priceless—a moment that reminded me why I love what I do. I Learned It from My Mom What's the best advice your mom gave you that influences how you approach motherhood and real estate? My mom always emphasized the importance of empathy and integrity in everything I do. She taught me to listen deeply, to understand others' needs, and to always act with honesty and compassion. This advice guides me in both motherhood and real estate, reminding me to prioritize relationships, to advocate for my clients with sincerity, and to create spaces where everyone feels valued and heard. House Hunting Fun How do you make house-hunting fun and engaging for families looking to settle down in the West Suburban neighborhoods? House hunting in the Western Suburbs is more than just finding a house—it's about discovering a community that feels like home. I make the process fun and engaging for families by organizing neighborhood tours, highlighting local parks, schools, and family-friendly amenities. From scavenger hunts for the kids to personalized welcome packages, I strive to make every step of the journey exciting and memorable, turning house hunting into a cherished family adventure. Finding the Perfect Home As a mom and a realtor, what's your favorite aspect of helping families find their perfect home in West Suburban Chicago? My favorite aspect is the opportunity to build genuine connections with families as they embark on this journey. I love getting to know their unique preferences, aspirations, and the little details that will make a house truly feel like home for them. Being able to guide and support them through such a significant milestone in their lives is incredibly rewarding—it's about forging lasting relationships and being a trusted ally in their pursuit of happiness. CONTACT EWELINA

  • COVER STORY | Realtor Mom: Julie Riddle of Geneva

    Local Mom & Realtor Shares Heartwarming Stories of Helping Families Find their Dream Homes While Balancing Family Life GENEVA–Meet Julie Riddle, a dedicated wife, mother of three and a successful realtor at @Properties St. Charles since 2017, based in Geneva, Illinois. Julie expertly balances her roles as a top-notch realtor in west suburban Chicago and a fantastic mother by meticulously planning her schedule to accommodate family commitments and client needs. Her passion for both her work and family shines through as she shares heartwarming stories of helping families find their dream homes, emphasizing the importance of happiness at work and home. Drawing inspiration from her family, particularly her mother and grandmother, Julie embodies leadership and warmth in both her personal and professional life. Through her fun and engaging approach to house-hunting, Julie creates memorable experiences for families looking to settle down in the vibrant neighborhoods of west suburban Chicago, showcasing the unique charm and community spirit of the area. Get to know more about Julie in her own words.... The Balancing Act How do you balance being a fantastic mom and a top-notch realtor in the West Suburbs? Part of the balancing act is keeping my schedule well-planned. Our family has the morning bus stop, practices, games, and sleepovers. When I am home, I am present. My clients are well-served by me; they always know they will hear from me quickly. I have systems in place and delegate work tasks when needed to keep a healthy work-life balance. I love spending time with my clients and family; each receives my full attention when we are together. Happiness at work and home is essential to me, and I have both. From Mom to Mom Can you share a heartwarming story of helping a family find their dream home in the West Suburban area? This winter, I was helping a family move from Texas. They knew very little about Naperville, and before giving them a video tour of a home they were interested in, I saw a neighbor shoveling across the street. I asked the neighbor if she would mind telling about the neighborhood for some potential buyers on video, and she agreed, even in the cold! The buyers purchased the beautiful Naperville home, and I dropped off a gift for the sweet neighbor I sprung an interview with. I Learned It from My Mom What's the best advice your mom gave you that influences how you approach motherhood and real estate? I grew up in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and both my mother and my grandmother were a significant influence on my life. My grandmother taught me to be a matriarch and the leader of my family, and I am both a leader within my family and my career. House Hunting Fun How do you make house-hunting fun and engaging for families looking to settle down in the West Suburban neighborhoods? I am fun, and I love to laugh. Home hunting should be an exciting adventure and never full of stress. I have a design group on Facebook (The Salt of Chicago Home Design Group), and I have many ideas about how a space can be transformed as we search for your home. At the same time, as an experienced parent, I look for the functionality of space as the stages of life change. I can confidently say that I am an expert in the housing economy, but what my clients remember is laughing and smiling with me. We have a blast. Finding the Perfect Home As a mom and a realtor, what's your favorite aspect of helping families find their perfect home in West Suburban Chicago? It is a joy to show a neighborhood and town's features. The Western Suburbs offer vibrant downtowns, culture, book clubs, gardening groups, neighborhood shops, and even neighborhood pools. It's a unique corner of the Chicago Area and the Midwest, and I love to show it off. If you speak to my clients, they will tell you that I talk to them about the friends I plan to introduce them to. We have many ways to participate in the community; the Chicago area has a pulse, and I am proud to live here. If my clients are utilizing public schools, it is important to me that I show them how to interpret the data on the Illinois School Report Card. Knowing the resources your district can offer is essential, and this data is an unbiased and reliable tool. The resources a school-age child may need can also change. I lost my hearing later in life, and resources for people who are deaf or hard of hearing are essential to me. It is important to know about the funding and resources of a school district to gain knowledge about the nearby schools. CONTACT JULIE

  • WOMEN INSPIRED | Nicole Schuler, Transforming Homes and Lives with Her Love for Organization

    Meet the Owner of Nice and Neat at Home in Naperville NAPERVILLE–Nicole Schuler, the owner and lead organizer of her thriving home organization business, Nice and Neat at Home in Naperville, discovered her passion for decluttering and creating harmonious living spaces through a lifelong love for organization. Transitioning from a career as a speech pathologist to a professional organizer, Nicole found fulfillment in not just beautifying spaces but also in giving people back control over their lives. For busy moms seeking practical solutions, Nicole recommends innovative storage ideas like designated donation bins, strategically placed "Put me away" bins on staircases, dedicated "Too Small" bins in children's closets, and keeping socks with shoes in the mudroom for easy access. These simple yet effective hacks streamline daily routines and reduce clutter, bringing a sense of order to hectic households. Balancing her clients' needs with maintaining her own home, Nicole practices what she preaches, implementing and sustaining organizing solutions in her personal space. Encouraging clients to embrace grace during the process, Nicole emphasizes the importance of having systems in place and dedicating time to maintain a clutter-free home amid life's busyness. Identifying the often underestimated mudroom as a key area for organization, Nicole stresses the significance of decluttering for creating a peaceful environment. By advocating a minimalist approach, defining spaces, and involving family members in the organizational process, she helps families achieve harmony and reduce stress through outer order. During consultations, Nicole tailors her approach to meet the unique needs of each family, considering factors like daily routines, family dynamics, and stressors to create customized organizational solutions. Emphasizing that there is no one-size-fits-all strategy, Nicole ensures her work benefits the entire household, not just individual clients. To moms striving for an organized and clutter-free home amidst daily chaos, Nicole offers empowering advice: be intentional about what enters your space, curate belongings that serve a purpose, and let go of items that no longer contribute to your peace. By asserting control over what comes into their homes, moms can cultivate environments that support their well-being, reduce stress, and foster stronger family connections. Nicole Schuler's dedication to transforming spaces and lives through organization exemplifies the profound impact of decluttering on mental well-being, productivity, and familial relationships. Through her thoughtful guidance and practical tips, she continues to inspire and empower families to embrace the transformative power of an organized home. www.niceandneatathome.com

  • PAUL GREGORY MEDIA | A Local Media and Marketing Agency to Know

    A Mission-Driven Marketing Agency NAPERVILLE–The Naperville-based marketing agency you probably never heard of – but they’re the communication and promotional hub of many nonprofit organizations that you probably do know. Organizations like Benedictine University, Habitat for Humanity of Illinois, KidsMatter, United Way of Will County, and about 60 others, both large and small. Starting in 2006, PGM has forged community-based partnerships with mission-driven organizations, and has become a community steward through volunteering, donations, and inkind work. In fact, they are a certified B-Corporation. They have over 170 awards to their credit, and a public commitment to donate 15% of their time, and 1% of their gross revenue to local nonprofit organizations. Not bad for a company you probably never heard of. Paul Gregory Media 50 S. Main Street Suite 200 Naperville • (630) 216-9010 paul@paulgregorymedia.com

  • REFINED BEAUTY BOUTIQUE | Downtown Naperville Salon & Spa Invites You to Take their Quiz to Get Matched with Your Perfect Stylist

    Refined Beauty is an Award-Winning Upscale Salon and Spa Boutique One Block from Downtown Naperville NAPERVILLE–With a staggering 427,536 salon recommendations in Naperville's Mom's Facebook group, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. But what if we told you there's a way to find your dream artist? Our quiz matches you with an artist who aligns with your unique style, beauty budget, busy schedule, personality, and beauty needs. It's a personalized experience just for you! We get it! Breaking up with your stylist is as challenging as finding the perfect pair of jeans. Well, fear not—we've got just the solution for you! It's time to take the only quiz that matches you with your salon soulmate. Take the quiz today and receive a free gift for your first service. Refined Beauty is an award-winning upscale salon and spa boutique one block from Downtown Naperville. It specializes in Hair Extensions, offering modern Cuts and colors, head spa treatments, Facials, Lash services, and Body Sugaring. It is known for its five-star bridal hair and makeup services, which can be performed on-location or rent their private Luxe Lounge. Rental options are available for the whole salon for your wedding or bachelorette parties. Refined Beauty www.refinedbeautyboutique.com 625 South Washington Street Naperville (630) 590-9500

  • TREND + RELIC | Shop Over 45+Vendors at this Multi-Vendor Marketplace in St. Charles

    SOMETHING IS ALWAYS HAPPENING AT TREND + RELIC IN ST. CHARLES WITH OVER 45 VENDORS ST. CHARLES–trend + relic is an experience that shoppers remember, as this unique multi-vendor marketplace has carefully selected experienced merchants who are artisans, builders, refinishers and painters, boutique owners and more each offering the most special items to adorn your home and make you feel beautiful. The talented merchants work hard to create and curate unique items, both vintage and new. Many of the treasures that you will find at trend + relic have been handcrafted including jewelry, candles, furniture & art and they have a variety of clothing & accessories, too. Each of the wonderfully talented merchants have created beautiful spaces in the shop as well as local markets so you will find some of your very favorites here. trend + relic 1501 Indiana Avenue, St. Charles, Illinois (630) 803-5253 • www.trendandrelic.com

  • SPECIAL OCCASIONS | Shop for the Perfect Dress at this Downtown Batavia Boutique

    Special Occasions 2 N Batavia Ave., Batavia, Illinois (630) 406-1515 www.specialoccasionsontheavenue.com facebook Instagram BATAVIA–Special Occasions invites you in! Visit for some DRESS Inspo! Gowns are arriving daily and this local dress shop is so excited to help you get ready for your next Special Occasion. Follow them online today: instagram– @special_occasions01 facebook– @SpecialOccasionsBatavia website– www.specialoccasionsontheavenue.com Become a part of Special Occasions. Make an appointment to find your dream dress or just stop in! Founded by Mary Marconi-Popiel in 2009, the shop’s attention to detail makes the ordinary more extraordinary, giving you a shopping experience that you will not forget. Special Occasions does not simply sell dresses– this local dress boutique sell dreams! Visit today for your next Special Occasion. Special Occasions 2 N Batavia Ave., Batavia, Illinois (630) 406-1515 www.specialoccasionsontheavenue.com VIEW SHOP GALLERY

  • FORT HILL FITNESS | Student Summer Special Happening at Naperville Park District

    Fort Hill Fitness Student Summer Special NAPERVILLE–Calling all high school and college students – looking to get and stay fit this summer? Take advantage of the Fort Hill Fitness 3-Month Student Membership! On sale beginning May 1, this membership provides three months of access to Fort Hill’s fitness center featuring a wide variety of cardio and free weights, more than 50 weekly group exercise classes, walk/jog track, open gyms and more. For details, stop by the Fort Hill Activity Center or visit online. www.napervilleparks.org/specials

  • PENNY O'BRIEN | Meet this Top Naperville Realtor with Baird & Warner Naperville

    PENNY O'BRIEN, REALTOR $250 Million Sold Determination, confidence & dedication to her clients consistently lands Penny O'Brien in the top 1% of all Chicagoland agents & top agents in Naperville. Penny is a prominent listing agent in Naperville. With 325+ five-star reviews, Penny’s sale to list price is 3.3% higher than the average agent and her listings sell for 102% list to sales price and 25 Days Faster With sellers she believes in collaborative pricing to let the sellers choose the path for the results they wish to achieve. Penny's clients always remark about her enthusiasm and vibrant energy! Sellers are often overwhelmed with tasks at hand that are necessary to get their home listed. Penny sets the timeline & has a great network of contractors she recommends to help get sellers home listed seamlessly. You get Penny from beginning to end & she believes in constant communication to keep you informed every step of the way. Her clients love her cutting edge marketing through social media campaigns on Facebook & Instagram and through print advertising. She uses state of the art photographer, drone technology & dazzling videos! With buyers, her top-notch negotiation skills result in a win in most multiple offer situations. It's a combination of negotiating the contract's many different terms & her experience, that set her buyers up to win the home when competing against other buyers. Penny's business continues to grow primarily through referral & repeat clients on their second or third transactions, along with 2 or 3 of their friends and family! • $250 Million Sold • #1 Agent Baird & Warner Naperville 2021 & 2022 • 2019 - 2023 Chicago Agent Magazine Who's Who • 2020 - 2023 Glancer Reader's Choice Award

  • GIRLS NIGHT OUT | Pinot's Palette is the Perfect Place for a Night of Fun

    ALL SEASON LONG Plan a Perfect Night Out Filled with Fun, Friendship, Creativity & More! NAPERVILLE–Spring is here! Plan a GNO. Pinot’s Palette is the best night out in Naperville! It’s a fun-filled, party atmosphere where you and your friends can talk, laugh, paint and sip. This unique spot is perfect for date night and family fun, too! You don't need any art experience – their talented local artists will guide you step-by-step through the night painting. Follow their instructions or go rogue and end up with a one-of-a-kind masterpiece! They also offer Mosaic Classes, Chunky Knit Blankets, Take Home Painting Kits, Virtual Live Streaming, In Studio and Virtual Private Parties! • Aprons and supplies provided • Snacks are welcome • Real wine glasses – no paper or plastic • There’s always rockin’ music Pinot's Palette Naperville 175 W. Jackson Avenue Downtown Naperville www.pinotspalette.com/naperville

  • WHIRLY BALL | Get Your Whirly On & Check Out What's Happening at this Naperville Fun Spot

    PLAN A FUN OUTING & MAKE YOUR RESERVATION TODAY NAPERVILLE- From friendly competition and entertainment to exceptional food and drink, WhirlyBall Naperville provides the perfect venue for all ages and occasions. The two-story “eatertainment” complex features a variety of activities including WhirlyBall, LaserTag, HyperBowling and bowling plus private event spaces for groups of any size. Round out your event with customized menus featuring The Pivot Room’s selection of elevated American fare and 24 rotating craft beer taps. Book your event today! Whirlyball Naperville 3103 Oddyssey, Naperville (630) 932-4800 • www.whirlyball.com ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT NAPERVILLE DUPAGE

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