This is Your Sign to Get Out there and Have Some West Suburban Summer Fun - Enjoy these 5 Things to Do Summer is here, and it’s time to soak up the season with unforgettable experiences! From sipping cocktails riverside at Appleton Park to indulging in decadent desserts under the stars at The Drake Oak Brook, there’s something for everyone. Explore artistic masterpieces at the Geneva Arts Fair, relive nostalgia with a drive-in movie at McHenry Outdoor Theater, or revel in the elegance of the Rendezvous: Splendor of Versailles. Make this summer one to remember with these must-do events! 1. Cocktails in the Park APPLETON PARK • JULY 26 & 27 BATAVIA–An event dedicated to showcasing Batavia restaurants while raising funds for Batavia MainStreet. Taking place right on the river in beautiful Appleton Park (behind City Hall) guests enjoy a night of live music, delicious appetizers, and of course, cocktails! www.downtownbatavia.com 2. Dessert by Starlight THE DRAKE OAK BROOK  OAK BROOK–Enjoy a chef inspired decadent dessert with wine at The Drake Oak Brook while overlooking the beautiful star lit sky! What's Included: Outdoor seating in the scenic courtyard Decadent dessert paired with wine, a star map and telescope to properly gaze into the night, a Drake logo blanket and an unforgetable experience. hwww.thedrakeoakbrookhotel.com/specials-and-packages.htm 3. Geneva Arts Fair ON FRANKLIN STREET JULY 26 & 27 GENEVA–For over 20 years, the juried Geneva Arts Fair has risen in attendance and notoriety. The fine arts show showcases fine artisans from around the country in a host of mediums from 10 am-5 pm. Don’t miss live acoustic music on Saturday and Sunday from 12-2pm. www.genevachamber.com 4. A Drive-In Movie MCHENRY OUTDOOR THEATER MCHENRY–Perfect for family fun, this nostalgic spot offers outdoor movies under the stars. From classic films to new releases, enjoy a unique blend of entertainment and charm. Pack your snacks, cozy up in your car, and relive the golden age of drive-ins. www.goldenagecinemas.com 5. Rendezvous: Splendor of Versailles CANTIGNY • JULY 19, 7:30-11pm WHEATON–Experience an unforgettable evening aboard the Chicago Premier Fireworks Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan. Indulge in a gourmet plated dinner, enjoy live DJ entertainment, and marvel at breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline. End the night in awe of Navy Pier’s dazzling fireworks display. A luxurious celebration awaits you! www.cantigny.orgperiences.com

What to Expect on Walk Day | Walk ALS Chicago WHEATON–Walk ALS Chicago is a powerful, family-friendly event that brings people together to honor loved ones, support those living with ALS, and raise awareness for a disease that touches far too many lives. Whether ALS has affected someone close to you or you’re learning more for the first time, this is a chance to show up, connect, and be part of something meaningful. Organized by ALS United Greater Chicago, the Walk helps fund care and support for local individuals and families facing ALS. “It’s fun for everyone! There are plenty of opportunities to socialize, raffles, and even the kids have a special area. If you're debating going, do it! You won’t regret it. The team at ALS United makes all participants feel incredibly welcomed!” –Emma-Leigh S. On Walk Day, you’ll find music, food, a Kids Zone, raffles, and fun features like a new photo booth station. You can meet dedicated care professionals, connect with others who understand, and learn how your support makes a real impact. This is your invitation to join a hopeful, united community moving toward a future without ALS. Together, we end ALS. www.walkalschicago.org

Two Shop Locations in St. Charles & Wheaton, Jeans and a Cute Top Shop is So Unique and Loved by Many WHEATON & ST. CHARLES–Jill Card opened Jeans and a Cute Top after years of working in retail and corporate sales jobs, wearing boring suits, uncomfortable panty hose, and predictable white dress shirts. The name was inspired by her first date with her husband when she asked, “What should I wear?” and her husband replied: “Jeans and a cute top.” When Jill was getting ready for that first date, she didn’t have a great pair of jeans or a cute top in her closet and had to borrow an outfit from her sister, a flight attendant with a much more fun wardrobe. As she got older, Jill couldn’t find any great jeans for women in their 30s and 40s. Stores catered to teenagers or grandmas. The unflattering ‘Mom’ jeans filled in that age gap. Now, in Jill’s closet, you’ll find about 40 pairs of jeans. She has 8-10 pairs in regular rotation. Her go-to, favorite pair is the Gia from Liverpool—the denim is super soft and keeps its shape. Jeans & A Cute Top is the solution for women who don’t want to look ridiculous trying to dress like their daughters but also refuse to settle for shapeless lounge wear. Jill hand selects every item in the store, going to trade shows looking for style over trend, and finding affordable, beautiful clothes that work for all women, not just size 0 models. You will find Jill working the floor of one of her shops every day—she is committed to changing the world for women one great fitting pair of jeans at a time. www.jeansandacutetop.com

Top 5 Reasons to Get an A/C Tune-Up As temperatures rise, your A/C works hard to keep your home cool. Regular tune-ups boost efficiency, extend lifespan, and prevent costly breakdowns. Here are the top five reasons why an A/C tune-up is essential. Enhanced Efficiency: Over time, dust, dirt, and debris accumulate in your A/C system, forcing it to work harder to cool your home. A professional tune-up includes cleaning and inspecting key components, ensuring your unit runs at peak efficiency, reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills. Extended Lifespan: Proper maintenance helps prevent premature wear and tear on components, extending the lifespan of your A/C system. Improved Comfort: A well-tuned air conditioner delivers consistent cooling performance, ensuring optimal comfort levels in your home. Preventative Maintenance: Tune-ups allow HVAC technicians to identify and address minor issues before they escalate into major problems, preventing costly repairs down the line. Better Air Quality: Clean filters and coils, as well as properly calibrated components, contribute to better indoor air quality by removing dust, allergens, and pollutants from the air circulated by your A/C system. Scheduling an A/C tune-up before summer arrives is a smart decision that saves money, enhances comfort, and prolongs your system’s life. Don’t wait until your A/C breaks down—book your tune-up with McNally HVAC today and enjoy a cool, worry-free summer! Contact McNally’s Heating and Cooling to schedule your A/C Tune-Up today! McNally’s Heating & Cooling www.mcnallyhvac.com | 630-363-9067

McNally's HVAC Shares Important Tips on HVAC for Summer CHICAGOLAND–Regular air conditioner (AC) tune-ups are an essential part of keeping your system running smoothly and efficiently. Maintaining your AC system is crucial for creating comfort in the hot summer months. At McNally’s Heating and Cooling we are dedicated to helping you keep your home cool and comfortable while saving energy and money. 1. Improve Energy Efficiency 2. Enhance Cooling Performance 3. Extend Lifespan of Your Air Conditioner System 4. Prevention of Costly Repairs 5. Better Indoor Air Quality McNally’s Heating and Cooling is a trusted provider of HVAC services throughout Kane and DuPage County, specializing in heating, cooling, and indoor air quality solutions. With a dedication to customer satisfaction and a commitment to excellence, McNally’s Heating and Cooling delivers reliable and efficient HVAC services to residential and commercial clients. McNally’s Heating & Cooling www.mcnallyhvac.com (630) 389-1719

Beautiful Properties Available in Downtown Naperville through Sylvia Kanney of ReMax Naperville NAPERVILLE–Discover the perfect blend of luxury and convenience at 715 & 717 N. Brainard Street , one of Naperville's finest new constructions. This stunning duplex features two 4,000+ sq. ft. residences– each offering modern elegance across four meticulously designed levels, making it ideal for multigenerational living or those seeking ample space to thrive. Step into a welcoming main level that includes a versatile private office or guest bedroom with a full bath, perfectly suited for work or visiting family. The open-concept layout boasts soaring 9-foot ceilings, custom cabinetry, and a chef's dream kitchen with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, a walk-in pantry, and an island with a beverage fridge. Enjoy peaceful evenings on the screened-in porch, designed for year-round comfort. 715 N. Brainard Street, Naperville The second floor hosts three spacious bedrooms, a shared bath, and a luxurious primary suite with a walk-in closet and spa-like en suite. A dedicated laundry room adds convenience. The finished basement provides even more versatility, offering a recreation area, a wet bar, and a bonus room adaptable to your lifestyle. The third floor is a standout, offering endless possibilities such as a home theater, office, or a private suite with its own full bath, perfect for teens or in-laws. Outside, you’ll find a charming patio, a two-car garage, and extra parking spaces with alley access. 717 N. Brainard Street, Naperville Built with care by Kevin Strickland of KSTRICK, each of these homes reflect unparalleled attention to detail. Act now and enjoy builder incentives, including closing cost credits with the preferred lender. Experience luxury living minutes from Downtown Naperville! Presented exclusively by: Sylvia Kanney, BROKER REMAX Professionals Select 630.728.6719 kanneysylvia.419@gmail.com

Four Decades of Beauty Innovation for Salon 21 in Wheaton WHEATON–Salon 21 in Wheaton is marking a major milestone—40 incredible years of transforming lives through exceptional beauty and wellness services! Since 1985, this premier Wheaton salon located in Danada Square West has been the go-to destination for west suburban customers seeking top-tier salon and spa experiences. Salon 21 Wheaton has built its reputation on delivering outstanding results and personalized service. For 40 years, their skilled team of professionals has stayed ahead of beauty trends while maintaining the classic techniques that clients love. This anniversary celebration reflects their commitment to excellence and their deep roots in the Wheaton community. Complete Beauty and Wellness Services What sets Salon 21 apart is their comprehensive range of services under one roof. Whether you're looking for a complete makeover or routine maintenance, this full-service Wheaton salon offers: • Haircare: From cuts and colors to styling and treatments • Skincare: Professional facials and skin rejuvenation services • Massage: Relaxing therapeutic and wellness massages • Waxing: Professional hair removal services • Wigs: Expert fitting and styling for all needs • Laser: Advanced laser treatments for various concerns • Spa Packages: Customized wellness experiences combining multiple services Premium Product Lines Salon 21 Wheaton partners with industry-leading brands to ensure clients receive the highest quality products. Their carefully curated selection includes beloved names like Aveda, Goldwell, Moroccan Oil, and Pureology—brands trusted by professionals worldwide for their superior results and innovative formulations. Exclusive 40th Anniversary Celebratory Specials To celebrate this remarkable milestone, Salon 21 is offering incredible limited-time savings: • 40% Off Perms: Perfect for adding volume and texture* • 40% Off Highlights: Brighten your look with professional color* • $40 Off Wigs: Expert fitting and styling included* • 40% Off Aveda Products : Stock up on premium hair care* • $40 Ear Piercing: Professional, safe piercing services* • $40 Brazilian Wax: Smooth, professional results* *See ad below for details and restrictions. Ready to join the celebration? Now’s the perfect time to experience what has made Salon 21 Wheaton's trusted beauty destination for four decades. Contact Salon 21 Wheaton today to book your appointment and take advantage of these exclusive 40th anniversary offers. Visit their website or call to schedule your transformation with Wheaton's most experienced salon professionals. SALON 21 - Salon & Wellness Spa 80 Danada Square West, Wheaton IL 60189 Call or Text: 630.668.1118 www.salon21wheaton.com

A Masterpiece of Contemporary Design in Naperville $2,499,000 603 Driftwood Ct, Naperville 5 Beds / 3 Full Baths / 1 Partial Bath 6,453 Sq. Ft. VIEW LISTING NAPERVILLE–Step into pure elegance at 603 Driftwood, one of Naperville's most distinguished modern estates. Designed by the acclaimed architectural firm JGMA and meticulously built by Jeff Muellner in 2013, this home is a masterpiece of contemporary design. Spanning over 6,300 square feet on a serene 1.5-acre wooded lot, its striking exterior combines the rich textures of Brazilian Ipe and Teak Cumaru woods with the unmatched durability of a custom-crafted Rheinzink zinc roof. Inside, 16-foot ceilings and an open floor plan create a sense of grandeur, while floor-to-ceiling windows flood the home with natural light and offer breathtaking views of the lush, private backyard. A Private Sanctuary Perfect for families, the chef’s kitchen is a study in modern sophistication, featuring premium appliances and sleek finishes, complemented by a second full kitchen on the lower level, perfect for entertaining guests or accommodating multi-generational living. Just minutes from downtown Naperville’s dynamic dining, shopping, and the scenic Riverwalk, this estate is located within the highly coveted District 203 school boundaries, including Highlands Elementary, Kennedy Junior High, and Naperville Central High School. With five spacious bedrooms, 3.1 luxurious baths, and a flawless blend of style and comfort, 603 Driftwood is not just a home; it’s a private sanctuary where world-class design meets everyday ease. (630) 420-8834 Listed by: Walt Burrell Brokered by: The Ville Team - Coldwell Banker Realty

Meet Michelle Parker of Chi-Cuterie in Geneva GENEVA–Michelle, the warm and creative force behind Chi-cuterie  in downtown Geneva , has turned her passion for good food and community into one of the area’s most beloved destinations. After moving to Illinois 17 years ago and settling in downtown Geneva six years back, Michelle made her dream a reality in 2021 with the support of her husband, Robert. Together, they launched Chi-cuterie, a woman-owned, family-run business that has captured hearts — and taste buds! Michelle’s dedication shines in every detail, from her locally sourced charcuterie boards and boxes to the inviting atmosphere of their historic English Tudor building. What started in a shared commercial kitchen quickly grew, earning accolades like Kane County ’s Finest Gourmet Shop in 2022 and 2024, and Top Workplace in Food Service in 2024. For Michelle, it’s about more than food — it’s about creating memorable experiences. She hosts charcuterie workshops, private parties, and lively events in Chi-cuterie’s beautiful Gathering Room, upstairs Bourbon Library, and lush gardens. Winnie’s Garden, in particular, has become a favorite for wedding “first looks” and family celebrations. Michelle’s love for Geneva shines through in her daily walks by the river, inspired by nature and the local wildlife. She also pours her heart into giving back, supporting groups like Fox Valley Food for Health  and A Tail of Four Paws  through fundraising events and programs like Candles for a Cause . Through Chi-cuterie, Michelle continues to blend food, community, and generosity. What inspired you to open Chi-cuterie ?   My love of entertaining and gathering people around local fare. Creating a warm and welcoming environment for people to gather, enjoy delicious food, and create memories is a dream come true!   What is your personal favorite charcuterie board to prepare?   All of our boards are “locally curated” with pairings that taste amazing together, but I do enjoy creating specific pairings boards for a specific wine, cocktail, or beer.   And I love a themed board! It offers a unique challenge to use our creative talents to incorporate local food, gorgeous edible flowers, and unusual vessels. We have created a large grazing table for someone who loves traveling to tropical places. I found local cheeses that paired with tropical fruits as well as edible tropical flowers. The tablescape was lush with palms, flowers, pineapples, mangoes, starfruit, dragonfruit, and of course lots of candlelight! We even did a Fairy Garden board with edible butterflies, fairy dust with edible glitter.   What is the most unique ingredient you've ever used on your boards?   Unusual fruits like lychee or passion fruit. Anything to create conversations and an experience! The pairings of the foods really illicit curiosity!   What are some fun themed boards you have created?   A full skeleton at Halloween filled with delicious treats, meats, and cheese! We also created a tropical paradise birthday experience for a little girl with lots of flamingos and bright decor and grazing tables. Additionally, we have hosted an engagement party using our entire space and incorporated raw oysters and a low country boil in the gardens. Everyone enjoyed the lawn games.   What are some tricks of the trade that are so simple, even inexperienced board makers can do?   I find having a theme or inspiration makes creating charcuterie more fun and interesting for guests. It can be something as simple as a fun collection of paper products. We have a Garden Party collection I am obsessed with lately. The plates, napkins, cups, and platters are just beautiful with lots of color and inspiration! I then find fruits, cheeses, jams, and unique foods and edible flowers to bring it all together. Our local goudas from female farmer and Master Cheesemaker, Marieke, offers a wide range of options and the wax rinds are colorful and can be used as vessels to hold the cheese on the board. For summer and a garden theme her Young Gouda is my go to! The bright yellow wax rind ties in with the yellows of our edible flowers and the paper products! The raspberry rose local jam and Cece’s honey from Geneva complete the Garden experience!   What is trending this summer for charcuterie?   Edible flowers! Meghan Markle’s television show has definitely influenced the use of edible flowers in recipes and even cocktails. We have always used them but love making them more accessible to our customers. We are hosting workshop experiences this summer where guests plant a mixology garden and learn how to use their garden for creating cocktails and mocktails and for other recipes. In July we will offer a Garden Batch Cocktail Experience with fun recipes for entertaining and of course will incorporate edible flowers.

Here’s What’s Trending in Summer Nights Around Town for Chicago's Western Suburbs Summer nights are heating up across Chicago's western suburbs, and the social scene is absolutely electric! From rooftop gatherings to outdoor adventures, residents of Naperville, Downers Grove, Wheaton, St. Charles, Geneva, Sugar Grove, Oswego, Aurora, Elmhurst, and Yorkville are embracing fresh ways to make the most of warm evenings. Whether you're a longtime local or new to the area, these trending nighttime activities are transforming how we experience summer after dark. #1 | Rooftop Dining Takes Center Stage Elevated dining experiences are reaching new heights across the western suburbs. Restaurants in Naperville and Geneva are opening stunning rooftop spaces where diners enjoy craft cocktails under the stars. These sky-high venues offer panoramic views of downtown skylines while serving detectible cuisine. The combination of cool evening breezes, twinkling city lights, and exceptional food creates an unforgettable atmosphere that's drawing crowds every weekend. Check out Empire in Naperville and Lombard, along with RH Rooftop in Oak Brook have beautiful rooftops. Enjoy! HOME | EMPIRE #2 | Outdoor Movie Night Fun Outdoor movie nights are booming in local communities like Naperville, Wheaton, and St. Charles and also downtown Chicago. Families and friends gather under the stars to enjoy classic films on big outdoor screens. These events foster a sense of community, offering a unique blend of nostalgia and modern entertainment in a relaxed, open-air setting... and the kids LOVE it! Trending now is Rooftop Cinema Club at Fulton Market in Chicago. So amaizng! Learn more www.rooftopcinemaclub.com/chicago/venue/fulton-market/ #3 | Concerts Under the Stars Get ready for Naper Nights 2025, Naperville’s ultimate summer concert series at Naper Settlement! Enjoy amazing live music in a one-of-a-kind outdoor setting that’s perfect for families, friends, and music lovers alike. Celebrate the community spirit while dancing under the stars and making unforgettable memories. With its vibrant atmosphere and fantastic entertainment, it’s the can’t-miss event of the summer! Grab your tickets today and join the fun. Visit www.napersettlement.org for more details. www.napernights.org #4 | Sunset Yoga Gain Momentum Wellness enthusiasts in Naperville, Oswego and more are embracing outdoor yoga classes that begin at golden hour and continue into twilight. These sessions combine mindfulness with natural beauty, often held in scenic places. Instructors incorporate LED candles and ambient music to create a magical atmosphere as day transitions to night. Participants leave feeling refreshed and connected to both nature and community. Check out Sunset Yoga at Arranmore Farm + Polo Club with 360 Studios Naperville. www.arranmorefarmandpoloclub.com Evolette Eve, Winfield #5 | Food Truck Frenzy The western suburbs of Chicago are buzzing with vibrant food truck trends in summer 2025. Expect a diverse culinary scene, from global fusion dishes to vegan specialties, all served on-the-go. Local craft beverage pairings and pop-up food truck festivals are drawing foodies, making these mobile eateries a must-visit hotspot for community gatherings. Check out Groovin’ in the Grove in Sugar Grove for fa fun food truck/concert event. SUGAR GROVE | Groovin’ in the Grove 2025 in Sugar Grove– Free Live Music & More #6 | Celebrate History in Wheaton Experience magical summer nights at Cantigny in Wheaton, where families can explore lush gardens under the stars, enjoy open-air concerts, and take part in kid-friendly movie nights. Roam the beautiful grounds, catch fireflies, or wind down with a peaceful picnic on the lawn. Special events like night hikes and storytelling bring fun and wonder to every visit. With something for everyone, Cantigny invites families to create memorable evenings together in a one-of-a-kind setting. Cantigny.org #7 | Summer Nights at Top Golf Summer Nights at Top Golf offer something special that traditional venues can't match. The climate-controlled hitting bays provide relief from humid Chicago summers while keeping you connected to the outdoors. Whether you're a golf pro or have never held a club, the interactive games make every swing entertaining. Schedule a fun night out in Naperville. www.topgolf.com/us/naperville/ #8 | Jazz Up Music Festival Mark your calendars and get ready to jazz up your summer! Back and better than ever, the jazz festival is taking place in the heart of Downtown Glen Ellyn. As the premiere jazz festival of DuPage County, this extraordinary event promises to showcase jazz talents featuring rising stars & legends, offering a full day of rhythm, improvisation, and unforgettable melodies for music lovers of all ages. Held Saturday, July 12 www.downtownglenellyn.com/jazz-up-music-festival #9 | Toast to Summer with Friends Looking for the perfect summer night out? Cooper’s Hawk offers an unforgettable dining experience with handcrafted wine, chic ambiance, and gourmet dishes. With West suburban locations in Naperville, Montgomery, Downers Grove, and St. Charles, it’s the ultimate spot to savor the season’s flavors and relax under the stars. Whether you are wine tasting or enjoying a luxurious dinner, Cooper’s Hawk is your go-to destination for trendy, memorable summer nights around town. www.chwinery.com #10 | Cheers to Evolette Eve Patio Nestled in the heart of Winfield, Evolet Eve is the perfect spot to unwind and indulge. With its cozy ambiance, warm lighting, and intimate seating, this wine bar feels like a home away from home. Sip your way through a thoughtfully curated selection of wines, featuring both local gems and international favorites. Whether you're catching up with friends or enjoying a quiet evening, Evolet Eve invites you to savor every moment in good company and great taste.

Eric Schlickman of The Backyard/Dough, Wheaton WHEATON–Eric Schlickman is a proud Wheaton native who has spent 36 of his years in this vibrant community.  A true hometown entrepreneur, Eric is the owner behind Wheaton’s favorites, 302 Wheaton (with locations on Front Street and in Town Square Wheaton ), Shane’s Deli , and the cozy, hidden, speakeasy, gem, Subourbon Whisky, Wine, & Cocktail Bar .  Additionally, this summer he is cooking up something new with two more hot spots — Dough and The Backyard . When he’s not busy creating great dining experiences, Eric loves trying new things — though with five restaurants and four kids in Wheaton schools, spare time can be a little hard to come by! Golf is his go-to hobby, and he’s a proud member of the Downtown Wheaton Association and the Wheaton Chamber of Commerce . Eric and his family are also active at College Church in downtown Wheaton. Whether he’s cheering on his kids at their games, following Kansas basketball, or planning his next getaway to the Caribbean, Door County, or Italy, Eric stays connected — to his family, his community, and the places that inspire him. What inspired you to open The Backyard in Wheaton  and Dough ? As a former architect, it starts with location and the building.  I fell in love with the old Carlson art building because of the barrel vaulted ceiling and skylight in The Backyard.  After that, I knew that Wheaton was missing a sports bar and I love pizza, so I figured let's combine the two and call it Dough.  Wheaton also is missing a live entertainment venue and after seeing the success of live music and other fun activities like trivia and bingo, it inspired building The Backyard.   What are three words that describe you as a Mover, Shaker, Dream Creator?   Architect, visionary and ambitious   What is your personal favorite cocktail to mix or brew to serve?    Bourbon Neat, or Coors banquet   What is the most unique ingredient you've ever mixed with?   I'm not super unique with ingredients - that's a good question for the bartenders at Subourbon .   What are some of the fun games available to play at your establishment?   Skeeball is the best.  Eventually, there will be an outdoor putting green that combines bags and putting.   What are some of the bands that play at your establishment?   We've had boy band covers, to U2 covers, to line dancing callers, and even music school youth bands.

Brent Copstead of Geneva Winery GENEVA–Brent Copstead of Geneva Winery has called St. Charles home for the past three years after living in Geneva since 2014. Originally from Washington State, Brent brought his passion for family, community, and wine to Illinois—and it shows in everything he does. As the proud owner of Geneva Winery, Brent has created spaces where people can connect, relax, and savor life’s simple pleasures. Brent’s deep commitment to community shines through at all three Geneva Winery locations: in Geneva, Batavia , and soon at a vineyard and production facility in Elburn . Whether you’re visiting the rustic charm of 426 S. 3rd Street in Geneva, enjoying river views in Batavia, or looking ahead to the vineyard’s grand opening, each spot reflects Brent’s love for bringing people together over great wine. Geneva Winery is best known for its handcrafted wines and its famous summertime wine slushies—refreshing treats that come in six delicious flavors like mango, peach, and blueberry, all topped with a splash of wine. The winery’s inviting outdoor spaces, live music, and fun atmosphere make it a local favorite during warm weather. When Brent isn’t busy at the winery, you’ll find him cheering on his kids at sporting events, tending to his 113-year-old farm in Elburn (soon to grow its own grapes!), or supporting local causes. Brent’s dedication to family, community, and wine makes Geneva Winery not just a business—but a destination where every sip truly tells a story.   What do you love most about what you do?   What I love most about what I do goes far beyond the craft of making great wine—though that’s certainly a joy, especially experimenting with unique varietals from around the world. The true reward lies in the connections we've built within our communities. It’s about the friendships that have grown over time, the familiar faces that stop in, and the simple pleasure of sharing a conversation and a glass of wine. There’s something really special about being able to say hi, sit down, and enjoy a sip together—it makes this more than a business; it makes it a family.   What is your personal favorite cocktail to mix or brew to serve?   My personal favorite to serve is definitely our wine slushies. They’re the ultimate summertime cocktail—fun, refreshing, and guaranteed to bring a smile to everyone’s face. With vibrant flavors and a splash of wine on top, they’re the perfect way to cool down and enjoy a little bit of joy in a glass.   What is your personal favorite cocktail or brew to drink?   With over 50 different wines in our lineup, my favorite really depends on the season, the occasion, and even the mood of the day—there’s always something new to enjoy. But if I had to choose, I’d say I have a soft spot for our “St. Charles,” a Chilean-style Malbec. It’s bold, smooth, and incredibly versatile—perfect for sipping on its own or pairing with a great meal. It’s one of those wines that always seems to hit the right note.   What is the most unique ingredient you've ever mixed with? As a winery, we get to experiment with a wide range of unique ingredients—different grape varietals, oak chips, natural flavors, and tannins. One of the most unique and memorable ingredients we’ve worked with recently is chocolate. We used it to create our Boonstone Gnome, a distinctive red wine that blends rich Lodi, California Cabernet Sauvignon with just a touch of chocolate. The result is a smooth, indulgent wine with a subtle twist that really surprises and delights people.   What is the most unique garnish you've ever used to decorate with? One of the most unique garnishes we’ve used was actually inside the bottle! For our Habanero and Jalapeño Strawberry wines, we had some fun by adding a whole pepper to each bottle. It created a bold visual and added an extra kick to the experience—definitely a conversation starter and a fun twist for adventurous wine lovers. -Interview by Kristen Kucharski Photos by Mike Catuara for Glancer Magazine