S P R I N G 2 0 1 3

mother's dayDIY

SPRING SPRUNG!

RECIPES IN BLOOM

ENTERTAINING MADE EASY

GRADUATIONTRENDS

MEMORIAL DAY MAGIC

a perfect event

I love happy.

So, I LOVE spring.

I wonder, if any city dwellers relish spring like Chicagoans.

We wear spring like a badge - we SURVIVED! We did it...we made it through another windy city winter.

Today, end of March is it a balmy, sunny 44 degrees.

Our first REAL day of spring like weather, Good Friday.

The entire city is outside.

Cafe patios are opening.

Up and down Lincoln and Southport shops have their doors flung wide open, welcoming in the weather and passersby.

All our neighbors at home have their windows thrown open - filling the house with fresh air and sunshine for the holiday weekend ahead.

And ooh la la - the flowers...the food...the April and May celebrations we have up our sleeves.

Our first ever spring issue is chock full of everything you need to cherish the season, Derby Day, Cinco de Mayo, Graduations, Mother's Day, Memorial Day and more.

To close, just a few of my many favorite happy to lucky spring quotes read as follow:

Spring is when life’s alive in everything. -Christina Rossetti

An optimist is the human personification of spring. -Susan Bissonette

and last but never, ever least:I believe in pink. I believe that laughing is the best calorie burner. I believe in kissing, kissing a lot. I believe in being strong when everything seems to be going wrong. I believe that happy girls are the prettiest girls. I believe that tomorrow is another day and I believe in miracles. - Audrey Hepburn, my icon

D E B I ' S N O T E

AHHHH.. .AT LONG LASTspring.

SPRING ISSUE | 3

10GATSby pArTy

with the savoy f lea12rUNWAy rEpOrT

with ryan beshel144 SprING COCKTAILS

with matt savage24Dry CLEANING 101

with eric himel26ThNGS OUr

mOThErS TAUGhT USwith candace jordan28

pyThON ObSESSEDDebi's favori te picks

30SpECIAL EVENT

IN pArISwith laurie fox pessemier 36brING ON SprING

with amanda puck42bACON JAm

the perfect bi te

44SErVING Up SprING

with elaina vazquez

50pArIS pLATES

with dominique malet

52ThE brOCANTE

with corey amaro

contents

SPRING ISSUE | 4

56LUCKy IN LOVE

amy and dan's wedding64GET yOUr GLOW ON

with s tacey roney 66LIfE ON AN

OLIVE fArmwith vicki archer70

rOOm 1520fete80

SprING LIpSwith morgan marie

82fAmILy phOTO

ALbUmS with suzanne brown84

JApAN IN bLOOmwith rory griff i th and col in hen-

kel 92fAST N fUrIOUS

with katy wezel94VAL AND JEff

engagement party104GIGI 'S bLOOmIN

bIrThDAydiy party ideas

contents continued debi lillyCHIEF EVENTEUR

christine janda CHIEF SOCIAL

lindsay brownCHIEF DESIGN

b L A I R & L A U R I E p E S S E M I E Rf ine art painters

The two pa inted in Seatt le before moving to Par i s . They of fer pa int ing wor kshops ce lebr at ing the ar t , cu l ture & cu is ine of the c i ty they love .

S U z z A N E B R O W n photographer

Chicago ’s f i r s t premier on- locat ion photogr aphy s tud io spec ia l i z ing in l i fes ty le photogr aphy for a l l types of love and a l l s tages of l i fe .

V I C k I A R C H E Rwriter

She l i ves between London and Sa int Rémy de Provence in southern Fr ance Her books “My French L i fe” and “French Essence” are t reasure t roves for the beauty of Fr ance , as i s her blog , French Essence .

E L A I N AV A z Q U E zboutique bi tes

Ela ina has a chef resume as impress ive as her wardrobe . CIA, Tr u , Pen insu la Joë l Robuchon, and now br ings fash ionable f ine d in ing to the enter ta in ing wor ld .

E R I C H I M E Ls tyl i s t

Er ic i s a ce lbr i ty s ty l i s t who i s a l so regu lar ly featured in Us Weekly ' s Fash ion Pol ice as wel l as on TV shows with h i s un ique take on ce lebr i ty fash ion and cur rent t rends .

CAT D'OROchef

Cather ine De Or io le f t her career in the cour troom to fo l low her t r ue pass ion in the k i tchen , scour ing the wor ld for the best of a l l th ings ed ible (and dr inkable) , f rom Today Show to Mar tha to Rachae l Ray.

R O S S S V E b A C klyfes tyle expert

Ross f inds imper fect ion charming . S imple , ever yday th ings are what he wants to have around. Come a long and learn to ce lebr ate what we a l ready have .

J O y M O L L E Tchef

Joy i s a se l f - taught home cook . She th inks i t i s impor tant for f r iends and fami ly to reconnect around the d inner table and uses qu ick and easy rec ipes to make weekday mea ls into a ce lebr at ion .

M A T T S A V A G Ephotographer

Matt i s a photogr apher based in Chicago, co-owner of aver yhouse and Smi lebooth Chicago.

D O M I N I Q U E M A L E T french foodis ta

She en joys great food, but l i ke many wor k ing mother s , doesn ’ t have much t ime to spend in the k i tchen . Her Par i s ian secret…simple and qu ick rec ipes .

R O S E M A R y

F A N T Ii l lustrator

and fash ion i l lus t r at ions that are as v iv id and a l ive as the people at the events . A l though photogr aphy may see ever yth ing , i l lus t r at ion expla ins i t .

A M A N D A p U C k

the foodarazz I

She i s a mass ive leader in the hosp i ta l i ty, event and publ ic re la t ions wor ld in Chicago as the EVP of XA, The Exper ient ia l Agency.

C O R E y A M A R Oblogger

Daily tales on her blog Tongue in Cheek are woven from her exper iences of l iving and loving in the south of France . Her tales are of l inens, of letter s, of vintage scraps, and moments of these worn true objects whisper ing in her ear.

C A N D A C E

j O R D A Nblogger Woman-about- town, one of "100 Powerfu l Chicagoans" & former P layboy Bunny of the Year. She cover s news of the mover s , shaker s and just p la in cool in Chicago and beyond, on her blog ,

THE SAVOyFLEA

The Savoy F lea t r ave ls anywhere the back roads take them to br ing you sophis t icated treasures . Shop tabletop, décor, g i f t s as wel l as props and renta l , a t the ready your next So i ree .

r ya n b e s h e l900 n. michigan shops

The man with the bowt ie . He i s the publ ic re la t ions coord inator for the 900 N. Mich igan shops and i s oh-so-d ia led- in on the la test t rends . You can fo l low h is fash ionable ventures through h i s blog , the bowt ie memoir s .

O U R T A S T E M A k E R S

SPRING ISSUE | 8 SPRING ISSUE | 9

Pho

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3050 North Lincoln AvenueChicago, Illinois 60657

T. 773.244.9333www. aperfectevent.com

www. planaperfectevent.comVisit the Event Research Bar for Expert Advice, Vendors,

Wedding Trends, Planning, Florals, Invitations, Favors

114ThE JOy Of COOKING

with joy mollet116IN ThE KITChEN

with cat de orio118AprIL ShOWErS

bbj table of the month240mAy fLOWErS

bbj table of the month126DEE'S 50Tha birthday bash136

pETEr AND JACKIEengagement sess ion 146

rUN fOr ThE rOSESderby diys150

OLÉ!5 s teps to c inco de mayo decor 154

DIy mOThEr'S DAygif ts your mother's wll treasure

156mOThEr'S DAy

GIfTINGwith rosemary fanti158

IN ThE KTIChEN with ross sveback

170ThINGS WE LOVE

donut fondue 172pAST mEETS prESENT

mother daughtertr ip to thai land178

CrAfTymOThEr'S DAy

dad's take note!162rUNWAy SKETCh

rhi 's fashion sketches184DIy GrADUATION

CELEbrATIONSfrom fancy. . . to fun!190

fLOrAL fINDS IN ThAILAND

contents continued

SPRING ISSUE | 11SPRING ISSUE | 10

TASTEMAkER

3

12Why ShOULD GATSby hAVE ALL ThE fun

USE BLACK, WHITE, GOLD & SILVER WITH POPS OF PINK TO CREATE THE PERFECT GATSBY PALETTE

SERVE PINK CHAMPAGNE OR PRO-SECCO ON ANTIQUE SILVER TRAYS

SCATTER VINTAGE JEWELS: USE PEARLS & RHINESTONES TO BEDAZZLE YOUR EVENT

WINTER ISSUE | 11

645

GATSBY INSPIRED VINTAGE TIPS ON

HOW TO TURN YOUR PARTY FROM

SURPRISE YOUR GUESTS WITH BLACK & WHITE CHEVRON PLACE CARDS

POP VOTIVES INTO VIN-TAGE CORDIAL GLASSES TO ILLUMINATE THE ROOM

ADD 1920’S GLAM PHOTOS IN VINTAGE FRAMES TO TABLES, BARS ETC..

BLAH TO BLING

The Savoy Flea

SPRING ISSUE | 12 SPRING ISSUE | 13

“KNOCK-KNOCK.WhO’S ThErE?it ’s COLOR… AND I’VE mISSED yOU.”WE’VE BEEN LUCKY THIS YEAR WITH QUITE A MILD WINTER (DEPENDING ON WHO YOU ASK) – BUT THAT HASN’T STOPPED US FROM GAZING OUT OVER MICHIGAN AVENUE, DAYDREAMING OF SOFTER BREEZES AND SUNNIER DAYS. AS THE MAGNIFICENT MILE BEGINS TO SPROUT AGAIN, SO DO OUR HOPES OF COLORFUL COCKTAIL DRESSES, HEELS HIGHER THAN THE HANCOCK AND LIGHT SPRING COATS THAT DO NOTHING BUT SHOW OFF YOUR SMART STYLE. SO, IN TRUE 900 NORTH MICHIGAN SHOPS FASHION (ALL PUNS INTENDED), I AM PLEASED TO PRESENT YOU SOME OF MY FAVORITE TRENDS OF THE SEASON – AND A GUIDE TO WHERE YOU CAN SCORE THESE LOOKS FOR YOUR VERY OWN CLOSET… YOU KNOW I’VE GOT YOUR BACK, CHICAGO. TOSS THAT WINTER COAT.

DITCH THE GOLASHES.

AND LET’S BRING ON THE FASHION – AND spring!

EVERY YEAR AROUND THIS TIME – PRINT FIGHTS ITS WAY BACK INTO OUR LIVES … AND THANKFULLY SO. BE IT FLORAL OR FUTURISTIC – PRINTS ARE THE PERFECT WAY TO SCREAM SPRING! THESE SILK PANTS NOT ONLY MAKE A STATEMENT – BUT, THEY ALSO FEATURE ONE OF THE SEASONS MOST CALLED-OUT COLORS: ORANGE. PAIR THESE WITH AN EASY TOP AND A SEXY SANDAL – AND YOU’LL BE THE TALK OF THE GARDEN PARTY, ALL SEASON LONG. J. CREW - COLLECTION SILk PANT IN PAINTERS FLORAL - $495

rUNWAy rEpOrTfrOm 900 NOrTh

ryan beshelTASTEMAkER

SPRING DEMANDS A BIT MORE LEG THAN THOSE WINTER MONTHS – AND THE PERFECT COCKTAIL DRESS IS A MUST FOR THIS SEASON. DON’T JUST GET TO THE PARTY … ARRIVE AT THE PARTY. THIS DELICIOUS DRESS IS FULL OF ATTITUDE, WITH A PUNCH OF COLOR AND WE LOVE THE WAY THE FLOUNCE HINTS AT A PEPLUM (ANOTHER BIG TREND FOR SPRING) – BUT, AT THE NECK, RATHER THAN THE WAIST. AFTER ALL, LAST TIME I CHECKED – THE RULES WERE MEANT TO BE BROKEN … PROPERLY, OF COURSE. GUCCI - FUCHSIA PINk LIGHT VISCOSE JERSEY WITH SILk FLOUNCE HALTER DRESS - $1300

THE SPRING NOT ONLY BREATHES A BIT OF ELECTRICITY INTO THE AIR – BUT ALSO INTO YOUR OUTFIT – AND WE NEVER WANT TO LEAVE THE MEN OUT. LADIES – GRAB YOUR GUY AND HEAD OVER TO CHECK OUT OUR NEWEST SHOE SHOP, MEZLAN. THIS SPANISH BRAND IS NO NEWCOMER TO THE FOOTWEAR GAME – AND THE SHOES SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES. PUNCH UP HIS COLOR A BIT AND ADD A METALLIC EDGE (SO IN FOR SPRING) TO HIS LOOK WITH THIS BOLD CHOICE. MEZLAN - “PAOLINO” - $375

THERE’S ALWAYS A BIT OF A TRANSITION FROM WINTER TO SPRING (WHETHER WE LIKE IT OR NOT) AND YOU HAVE TO BE PREPARED FOR THOSE UNEXPECTED CHILLS. WHEN THE SUN BEGINS TO RETIRE FOR THE EVENING, GRAB A SIMPLE CARDIGAN, THROW IT OVER YOUR DRESS … AND STILL LOOK EFFORTLESS. FOR SPRING, PASTELS ARE BACK TO ADD A SOFT CREAMINESS TO OUR LOOKS – AND THIS OPTION IS JUST WHAT THE WEATHERMAN (OR WOMAN) CALLED FOR. L.k. BENNETT - BAY SILk CARDIGAN - $195

SPRING IS A TIME OF RE-BIRTH – AND TRUE-TO-FORM, SO IS 900 NORTH MICHIGAN SHOPS’ NEWEST RETAILER, “LULU’S ON THE AVENUE”. OWNER, LAURIE DAVIS, IS KNOWN FOR BREATHING NEW LIFE INTO ALREADY STUNNING VINTAGE PIECES – SUCH AS THIS GORGEOUS NECKLACE FROM HER RECENTLY LAUNCHED “SIGNATURE LULU’S” COLLECTION. AND WITH THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF EMERALD AS PANTONE’S “COLOR OF THE YEAR” – YOU HAVE NO REASON NOT TO ROCK ONE OF THESE BOLD BEAUTIES WITH A WHITE T-SHIRT AND JEANS. AROUND HERE, WE CALL THAT “MAKING A STATEMENT.” LULU’S ON THE AVENUE - “SIGNATURE LULU’S” PIECE

SPRING ISSUE | 14 SPRING ISSUE | 15

O N T H E C O V E R

4 SPRINGCOCKTAILS

DIY: Straw flags- SO EASYCut Washi Tape (from art/craft stores) and fold in half onto itself, cut end on diagonal (it's tape - sticks to itself!)

B L O O D O R A N G E G I N S P A R K L E RMATT SAVAGE

You can keep the rosemary simple syrup in the refrigerator for a week or so. Also, if blood oranges are hard for you to come by - navel oranges are also delicious. INGREDIENTS2 cups water 1 cup sugar 4 tablespoons (~2 sprigs-worth) fresh rosemary leaves 1 bay leaf (optional)blood oranges gin ice cubes tonic water (or sparkling water) DIRECTIONS1. Combine the water, sugar, rosemary, and bay in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer for 3-5 minutes, or long enough for the sugar to dissolve, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat and let infuse for 10 minutes. Strain into a jar to cool completely.2. In the meantime, juice and strain your oranges, you'll need 3 tablespoons / 1.5 tablespoons of juice for each drink.3. To make each drink combine you're going to combine equal parts gin, juice, and tonic water with a bit of syrup and ice. So, its 3 tablespoons / 1 1/2 oz gin, 3 tablespoons / 1 1/2 oz freshly squeezed blood orange juice, and 1-2 teaspoons of the rosemary syrup in each tall glass (I used kolsch glasses here). Stir to combine, fill each glass 2/3 full with ice and top off with 3 tablespoons / 1 1/2 oz tonic water. Stir again and you're set.

#springcocktailshoot

SPRING ISSUE | 16 SPRING ISSUE | 17

A G A V E M A R G A R I T AINGREDIENTSKosher salt2 lime slices or wedges1/4 cup tequila blanco2 tablespoons coconut nector2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

DIRECTIONS1. Pour some kosher salt into a small dish. Rub 1 lime slice over half the rim of an Old Fashioned glass (if you prefer your Margarita on the rocks) or a coupe glass (if you prefer it up). Dip rim of glass into salt. 2. Combine tequila, coconut nector, and juice in a cocktail shaker; fill with ice and shake well. Strain into prepared glass. Garnish with second lime slice.

FEATURE

QUICKTIP :

Add fresh herbs for an extra punch of color and flavor!

SPRING ISSUE | 19

R O S E M A R Y T A N G E R I N E C O O L E RINGREDIENTS2 tablespoons raw sugar (plus more)4 tangerines, halved crosswise16 rosemary sprigs, divided2 cups white rum DIRECTIONS1. Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over high heat, or on a grill grate. Pour some raw sugar into a small plate. Dip cut sides of tangerines into sugar. Scatter 8 rosemary sprigs in skillet; add tangerines, cut side down. Cook until sugar caramelizes, about 2 minutes. Let cool.2. Quarter tangerines; discard rosemary. Place tangerines in a pitcher, add 2 Tbsp. raw sugar, and muddle to release juices. Add rum and 6 cups ice; stir until pitcher is frosty. Divide among glasses; garnish with remaining 8 rosemary sprigs.

S P R I N G H E R B M O J I T OINGREDIENTS1 teaspoon sugar1 small lime, juiced3 leaves mint2 ounces white rum1 ounce sparkling water1 sprig thyme

DIRECTIONS1. Add sugar to glass. Pour in lime juice and stir vigorously to dissolve sugar.2. Place mint leaves into the glass, and muddle. The goal here is to bruise the leaves, infusing their oils into the drink. If you don't have a muddler, the handle of a wooden spoon will work nicely.3. Fill glass with ice. Pour in rum, and then top off with sparkling water. Stir, and then garnish with sprig of thyme.

SPRING ISSUE | 21

BEHIND THE SCENES

MATT + INSTAGRAM = SNEAK PEEKS OF THE COVER SHOOTInside averyhouse studio

(which, lucky us, happens to be directly above a perfect event!)

Baby rhodes, our fave neighbor, is an awesome photo assistant...Non?

SPRING ISSUE | 24 SPRING ISSUE | 25

ALL DRY CLEANERS ARE NOT CREATED EQUALLY.

CASE-IN-POINT:

I TALkED WITH 2ND GENERATION OWNER, JORDAN WOOD, ABOUT HOW DAVIS IMPERIAL, OVER THE LAST SIXTY YEARS, BECAME ONE OF AN EXCLUSIVE INTERNATIONAL EIGHTEEN MEMBER GROUP, LEADING CLEANERS INTERNATIONALE, WHY THEY ARE THE MOST TRUST-ED CLEANERS IN THE CHICAGOLAND AREA AND HIS SPRING TIPS!

davis imperial cleaners

ERIC HIMELTASTEMAkERWHAT IS THE MOST COMMON MISCONCEPTION ABOUT DRY CLEANERS? DRY CLEANING IS BAD FOR YOUR CLOTHES! INCORRECT! BAD DRY CLEANING IS BADFOR YOUR CLOTHES, GOOD DRY CLEANING IS GOOD FOR YOUR CLOTHES! IN FACT, “GOOD” DRY CLEANING CAN/WILL EXTEND THE LIFE OF YOUR GARMENTS.

WHAT IS THE MOST COMMON MISTAkE DRY CLEANERS MAkE? MOST DRY CLEANERS TREAT EACH GARMENT AS A “PIECE.” EVER DROPPED OFF YOUR CLEANING AND RECEIVED A RECEIPT THAT SAYS 11 GARMENTS OR 6 PANTS 5 DRESSES? EACH PIECE NEEDS TO BE TREATED INDIVIDUALLY. RECOGNITION OF THE DESIGNER’S INTENTION AS IT RELATES TO DRAPE OF THE GARMENT IS VITAL. THIS IS WHY WE TAKE A PICTURE OF EACH PIECE THAT WE PROCESS. DOES IT HAVE A CREASE, DO THE BUTTONS NEED TO BE REMOVED, DOES BEADING NEED TO BE SECURED AND SO ON? DETAILS, DETAILS, DETAILS. TAKE AN HERMES BLAZER, A GOOD DRY CLEANER MIGHT REMOVE THE BUTTONS, A GREAT DRY CLEANER WILL DEFINITELY REMOVE THE BUTTONS AND MIMIC THE “H” STITCH WHEN REATTACHING

WHAT IS ‘DRY CLEANING’ EXACTLY? DRY CLEANING IS A PROCESS USED TO CLEAN TEXTILES/CLOTHING USING A SOLVENT THAT IS NOT WATER. HOWEVER, IT IS IMPORTANT TO NOTE THAT DRYCLEANERS DO MORE THAN DRY CLEAN. A NUMBER OF GARMENTS PROCESSED ARE ACTUALLY WET CLEANED, IT’S A SAFE AND EFFECTIVE METHOD JUST LIKE DRY CLEANING. IMPORTANT TO NOTE THAT A GOOD DRY CLEANER WILL USE A VARIETY OF TOOLS BASED ON FABRIC CONTENT, STAINS ETC.

WHAT MAkES DAVIS CLEANERS DIFFERENT FROM REGULAR DRY CLEANERS? OLD WORLD TECHNIQUES COUPLED WITH STATE OF THE ART EQUIPMENT. 13 STEP PROCESS. FROM CRYSTAL CLEAR ECO FRIENDLY SOLVENTS, 6 DIFFERENT POINTS OF INSPECTION, PACKAGING THAT MIMICS THE PLACE OF PURCHASE (WILL NOT FIND WIRE HANGERS HERE), WE ARE DIFFERENT. DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY OF EACH AND EVERY PIECE, EXPERIENCE, EXPERIENCE, EXPERIENCE. EDUCATION IS HUGE, WE ARE CONSTANTLY SHOPPING THE STORES TO DISCOVER THE LATEST FABRICS AND TRENDS. SATURDAY, MY FATHER IS FLYING WITH TWO OF OUR EMPLOYEES TO MANHATTAN TO TALK ABOUT AND REVIEW THIS SEASONS PROBLEM GARMENTS.

WHAT THINGS CAN PEOPLE DO TO PROTECT THEIR CLOTHES FROM MOTHS AND PRESERVE THE LONGEVITY OF THEM? ANY SPRING TIPS? WHEN STORING GARMENTS FOR THE LONG TERM, BE CAREFUL TO AVOID STORING IT ALONG AN EXTERIOR WALL OR AN ATTIC. THESE AREAS GENERALLY HAVE HIGHER HUMIDITY WHICH COULD RESULT IN MILDEW GROWTH AS WELL AS EXTREME FLUCTUATIONS IN TEMPERATURE CAN BE DETRIMENTAL TO FABRICS.

ALWAYS CLEAN YOUR GARMENTS BEFORE SEASONAL STORAGE. SOIL, FOOD STAINS AND PERFUME WILL ATTRACT INSECTS DURING STORAGE. REMEMBER TO STORE YOUR SWEATERS IN BREATHABLE SWEATER BAGS THAT HAVE CLEAR VIEW FRONTS AND SYNTHETIC FABRIC FOR THE BACKING.

GARMENTS SHOULD NEVER BE STORED IN PLASTIC GARMENT BAGS. THESE BAGS ARE USED BY DRY CLEANERS PURELY FOR THE PURPOSE OF TRANSPORT TO PREVENT YOUR GARMENTS FROM SOIL AND POOR WEATHER CONDITIONS. REMOVE THEM IMMEDIATELY UPON RECEIPT AND REMEMBER TO LEAVE YOUR GARMENT COVERS ON TO PROTECT THE SHOULDERS OF YOUR GARMENTS FROM DUST AND DIRECT LIGHT.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU DRY CLEAN A SUIT OR DRESS? THIS IS A DIFFICULT QUESTION WITHOUT A CLEAR CUT ANSWER. IF MONEY IS NO OBJECT, THAN I REVERT BACK TO MY ANSWER ABOVE. AS LONG AS THE DRYCLEANER IS MAINTAINING HIGH STANDARDS CLOTHES SHOULD BE RETURNED TO YOUR CLOSET CLEAN, PERIOD. IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A COUTURE DRY CLEANER IN YOUR AREA, ASK THE PREMIER BOUTIQUES, COUTURE DEPARTMENT STORE MANAGERS, EVENT PLANNERS, AND PERSONAL SHOPPERS IN YOUR AREA FOR THEIR RECOMMENDATION.

SPRING ISSUE | 26

CANDACE AND hEr mOm, ELSA mAE STOTT ENrOUTE TO SOUTh bEACh

Things our

taught us.

With mother’s Day fast approaching…

Many of you will be busy buying cards, flowers or candy to send to your moms.

me? Like so many others, I will only have my mother’s memory to honor since she passed away many years ago.

I’ll be honest, I’ve never gotten over losing her.

She was my best friend. We went everywhere together. During the last few years of her life, she lived with Chuck and me after surviving life threatening aneurism surgery. Every, single day it was a blessing to have her right next to me.

She taught me so much about life and living. She never said no. She loved trying anything different. She loved going somewhere new. She had a lust for life that she carried with her until the end of her days. She loved people. It didn’t matter who they were, what they had or where they came from.

When I started modeling, she was so proud of me. I remember bringing home tear-sheets from jobs and she would look at me, burstin with excitement, and ask quickly, “What’s up next?” Even though it was very

frustrating at the time, it also taught me to never be complacent, to never give up, and to always keep moving forward. I never realized then how important this would be later in life. because of her, I’m writing this for you. because of her, I’ve achieved things I could only dream about when I was younger. because of her, I’m here.

I started thinking about some of my other dear, visionary friends, and it made me wonder what their mothers had taught them.

So, I asked brian Atwood, Chef Art Smith, Nate berkus, Val Warner, Tom Dreesen and Israel Idonije, “What’s the single, most important piece of advice your mother ever gave you?” here’s what they had to say about this very special person in their lives.

I loved hearing these wonderful pieces of advice that we all can certainly use in our own lives. more impor-tantly, I love and salute all of the nurturing mothers out there who provide this kind of mentoring that molds their own children’s lives…and society as a whole.

They're making the world a better place.

TASTEMAkER

by Candace Jordan

Mothers Brian Atwood on his mother yolanda “Dusty” Stemer: “my mother always told me to be humble. It is something that I always remember her telling me....as if she knew the amazingly crazy life I would soon lead. I love her! She is the matriarch of our family.”

Val Warner on her mother Diane Jackson: “The most important piece of advice my mother gave me was to "fOrGIVE". She didn't just give this advice ...she lived it and taught me through her example. my mother always advised me to "let it go...and move on... Life is too short and no one is perfect."

Chef Art Smith on his mother Addie mae Smith: “Keep my chin up when the bullies were always after me. Never ever give up!”

Tom Dreesen on his mother Gl-enore (Algoe) Dreesen: “my mother was Irish/Catholic and taught me that there was power in prayer. I have gone there, and found comfort so many times in my life when I was ‘down and out,’ as the saying goes, having no place else to turn. The other thing she used to say a lot was ‘give people flowers when they can smell them.’ In other words, of course don’t only say nice things about a person af-ter they’re dead. Tell them when they’re alive. I have tried to do that all my life to my friends and family and even to strangers who I see or read about that do something for their fellow man.”

Israel Idonije on his mother Choice Idonije: “my mother has told me several times throughout my life that I should always be prepared for the opportunities presented to me. She shared the importance of being ready to accept these opportunities, and to make the best of them. This has been a valuable piece of advice that I strive to live by each day.”

Nate Berkus on his mother Nancy Golden: “never be a snob about where you Find something of good quality.”

SPRING ISSUE | 28 SPRING ISSUE | 29

THINGS WE LOVE

Under$40

Deb i l i ves

in these !

HUNTER | CARNABY SNAkE | $195

BE & D | MR. VOGEL M | $668

REBECCA MINkOFF | PYTHON IPHONE 4 CASE | $37

MICHAEL MICHAEL kORS | JET SET CONTINENTAL WALLET | $138

$50 !Par i s i an ba

l l er inas

- now in python -

merc i beaucoup

M i chae l Kors

PYTHONPOWER

NEED !

Under$40

SPERRY TOP-SIDER | ANGELFISH | $80

BLANk DENIM | PYTHON PRINT COATED SkINNY JEANS | $36

RACHEL ZOE | GINTA RUFFLE DRESS | $275

MICHAEL MICHAEL kORS CYNTHIA BALLERINA | $50

SPRING ISSUE | 30 SPRING ISSUE | 31

ParisARTIST WE LOVE

THAT SPECIAL EVENT IN

paris is the perfect stage for that special event. It was no surprise when a client wrote to us earlier this year about his intended engagement in paris – he thought it would be neat to have their portrait paint-ed together with the Eiffel Tower in the background. “And she won’t be wearing the ring yet – I want her to notice that you paint it in the picture, then I’ll ask”.

We made the necessary arrangements: Trocadero would be a good vantage point with the ideal view and space to paint. We were meeting at 11, and the photographer would arrive to film “the scene” at 12. We had one hour to create the double portrait.

Blair painted in the background the day before – our client would suggest to his girlfriend “wouldn’t it be nice if we were in the picture?”. What he didn’t count on was the 32 degree temperature – “stand here in this cold, darling?” But the plan went off without a glitch.

This wasn’t our first date with romance – a while ago I painted a 12 x 12 inch portrait of a first kiss. Luck-ily it took place in a photo booth. On a less cheery note, I painted a funereal portrait of a cockatiel, greatly loved.

paris is the city for kisses, engagements and unfor-gettable weddings and anniversaries. Blair painted a Chagall-like memento of a couple celebrating 25 years at the Eiffel Tower.

While painting in a café one sunny afternoon last year, the couple sitting next to me asked if I would paint their portrait. And could my husband, blair, paint one, too? They had just set their “lock” on the Pont des Arts. He was from Australia, and she from Croatia, and they each wanted a portrait, “just in case”. I didn’t think it boded well for their rela-tionship, but c’est la vie.

At Trocadero yesterday, when the to-be-betrothed bride saw the ring in the picture, he dropped to his knees, took the velvet box from his pocket and she said, yES!

Laurie Fox Pessemier www.studiopessemier.com

SPRING ISSUE | 32

SPRING ISSUE | 34

BEHIND THE SCENES

SPRING ISSUE | 35

parker and Lilly enjoy the bird's eye view on the terrace - tres charmant, non?

SNEAK PEEK INSIDE LAURIE AND BLAIR'S ATELIER IN ST GERMAIN, PARIS!so enchanting:

Their gorgeous parisian paintings hang

from floor to ceiling like inside Le Louvre.

(Debi ordered mike's anniversary gift on the spot!)

SPRING ISSUE | 36 SPRING ISSUE | 37

TASTEMAkER

BRING ON

SOUTH BRANCH HAS ONE OF CHICAGO’S LARGEST PATIOS, SPANNING OVER 4,000 SQUARE FEET. BOASTING BEAUTIFUL VIEWS OF THE CITY AND THE FAMOUS CHICAGO RIVER, IT IS A PRIME SPOT TO GRAB A COCkTAIL AND ENJOY SUMMER.

Alfresco Dining

Spring

AmandaPuck

WHEN SPRING FEVER HITS, LOOK TO AREA RESTAURANTS SPROUTING UP

SEASON-INSPIRED ITEMS LIKE AROMATIC FLORAL COCKTAILS. PLAN A FUN MOTHER-

DAUGHTER OUTING ON MOTHER’S DAY COMPLETE WITH A SPARKLING COCKTAIL TOAST, A REFRESHING SPRING FAVORITE.

WHAT BETTER WAY TO ENJOY THESE DRINKS THAN ALFRESCO?! READ ON FOR AMANDA'S ROUNDUP OF WHERE TO DINE.

LE COLONIAL IS SITUATED IN A CHARMING TWO-STORY VINTAGE ROWHOUSE AND OFFERS TWO

DISTINCT ALFRESCO DINING OPTIONS – THE STREET-LEVEL PATIO AND THE SECOND FLOOR TERRACE.

SEATING 133, THE VERANDA AT FULTON’S ON THE RIVER IS LOCATED ALONG THE HISTORIC CHICAGO RIVER. DINE AT AN UMBRELLA-TOPPED TEAk WOOD TABLE OR LUXURIOUS CABANA WHILE ENJOYING PICTURESQUE VIEWS OF THE WATER AND CITY SkYLINE.

TRAVELING DOWN THE CENTER STAIRCASE TAkES YOU TO THE LOUNGE SPACE AND RIVERWALk CAFE. OUTDOOR SEATING AND THE LOUNGE OFFERS SPECIALTY COCkTAILS AND LIGHT APPETIZERS.

CUCINA PARADISOELDERFLOWER COSMO - $11ABSOLUT VODkA, ST. GERMAINE ELDERFLOWER LIQUEUR, PINEAPPLE JUICE, LIME

BRIDGE BARFRENCH 315 - $11ST. GERMAIN, MATHILDE XO ORANGE, LAVENDER SYRUP, BUBBLES

JAPAONAISFLOATING ORCHID - $13SIGNATURE COCkTAIL - ABSOLUT, FRESH PEAR, LEMON, EDIBLE ORCHID GARNISH

LE COLONIAL LE BOTANIQUE - $14GIN, HUM BOTANICAL SPIRIT, HOUSE GINGER SYRUP, GINGER ALE, LIME JUICE, SUGARCANE, MINT

GRASS FED CUBA LIBRE - $10HOUSE BOTTLED COCkTAIL - CARDAMOM INFUSED RUM, HOUSE MADE COLA

Floral Cocktails12

4

5

3

JAPAONAISFLOATING ORCHID

SPRING ISSUE | 42 SPRING ISSUE | 43

#BACON JAmThE pErfECT bITE. by JEAN SprINGSTON

SErVES 12

Tip: Add lArge smeArs of your goAT cheese

And bAcon spreAd for visuAl impAcT And

bursTs of flAvor.

INGrEDIENTS

1 pACKAGE Of pETITE TOASTS (USUALLy IN

ChEESE DISpLAy, prETTy, SmALL CrACKErS

WOrK WELL TO SUbSTITUTE)

4 Oz hErbED GOAT ChEESE (SprEADAbLE)

SKILLET bACON SprEAD (SOLD hErE AT A

pErfECT EVENT)

10-12 ChErry TOmATOES, SLICED

1 bUNCh frESh ThymE

DIrECTIONS

LAy pETITE TOASTS ON SErVING pLATTEr.

GENErOUSLy SprEAD hErbED GOAT ChEESE

ON EACh TOAST, fOLLOWED by bACON JAm.

TOp WITh SLICED ChErry TOmATOES AND

frESh hErbS. SErVE, 2 bITES pEr pErSON.

TASTY TIDBIT: JEAN SERVED THIS UP AT DEBI'S

SEATTLE BOOk SIGNING - AND BOY - DID WE FALL IN

LOVE! SUNTIMES SPLASH EDITOR SUSANNA NEGOVAN

FEATURED OUR BACON JAM ON ABC NEWS AS A

FAVORITE ROMANTIC BITE FOR VALENTINE'S DAY!

SPRING ISSUE | 44

TASTEMAkER

Serving up SpringInCOrPOraTe Fresh FlOrals Or herbs InTO yOUr COCKTaIls FOr a reFreshInG anD ChIC sPrInGTIMe TWIsT – elaIna reCOMMenDs COMbOs sUCh as:

Lavendar lemonadeSparkling watermelon-basilCucumber-lime-mint

elaIna VaZQUeZ

PHOTOGRAPHY BY: CARASCOSCOTT THOMPSONDENNIS LEEAMANDA HEIN

Cinco de Mayo

a MaTCh MaDe In CUlInary heaVen…

Mini ceviche filled cucumber cups paired with a mini margaritaMini pork tostaditas

shrIMP CeVIChe In a CUCUMber CUP: shrimp Ceviche Ingredients1 lb medium sized shrimp Juice of 12 limes1 tomato, small diced1/2 avocado, small dice1/2 small white onion, minced1/4 cup cilantro, minced1/2 jalapeño, minced1/4 t Tobasco sauce Directions1. Poach shrimp skin on in simmering water for 2 minutes. 2. remove shrimp and add to ice water bath to stop cooking. 3. Peel, devein and butterfly shrimp, and dice so that it is small enough to fit enough the cups. 4. Transfer shrimp to a bowl and cover with 3/4 of the lime juice. refrigerate for an hour. 5. Mix together tomatoes, avocado, onion, cilantro, jalapeño, and reserved lime juice. season with tobasco sauce. Ceviche Cups: 1 english cucumber (yields 10 to 12 cups) Directions1. slice the cucumber into 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick rings. 2. Using a melon baller or small spoon, scoop out the seeds. 3. season with a little bit of salt before adding the ceviche to the cups.

SPRING ISSUE | 46 SPRING ISSUE | 47

ThIs year, TreaT MOM TO a lITTle TrIP DOWn MeMOry lane WITh a reTrO-InsPIreD lUnCh Or DInner sPreaD InClUDInG sOMe OF her VInTaGe FaVOrITes InClUDInG:

Mini chicken pot piesMini root beer floats“Upscale” tv dinner

Mother's Day

GraduationCelebraTe GraDUaTIOn WITh a baCKyarD FarMer’s MarKeT-InsPIreD sPreaD InClUDInG:

Artisanal cheese boardVegetable crudite in glass vessels

SPRING ISSUE | 48 SPRING ISSUE | 49

Mini cheeseburgers served alongside mini milkshakesMini turkey and swiss sandwiches with pesto mayonnaise served alongside mini “Bag ‘O Chips” (yukon gold, beet, purple peruvian)Mini chicago-style hot dogs and mini grilled cheeseMini cotton candy

KICKOFF sUMMer WITh sOMe all-aMerICan ClassICs InClUDInG:

Memorial Day

SPRING ISSUE | 50

MINT GREENPEAS VELOUTéSErVES 4

prEpArE: 10 mINUTES

COOK: 20 mINUTES

INGrEDIENTS

2 pOUNDS GrEEN pEAS

3 CUpS ChICKEN brOTh

3 TSp WALNUT OIL

1/2 CUp SINGLE CrEAm

mINT LEAVES

SALT AND pEppEr

DIrECTIONS

1. bOIL ChICKEN brOTh IN A pAN AND ADD

GrEEN pEAS, SALT AND pEppEr.

2. COOK mEDIUm hEAT DUrING 20 mINUTES.

3. mIx TOGEThEr WITh WALNUT OIL AND A

DOzEN Of mINT LEAVES UNTIL SmOOTh.

4. ADD fINE-CUT ExTrA mINT LEAVES bEfOrE

SErVING COOL Or WArm IN GLASSES Or bOWLS.

RASPbERRy CLAFOUTISSErVES 6

prEpArE: 10 mINUTES

COOK: 40 mINUTES

INGrEDIENTS

2 fULL EGGS + 2 yOLKS

3.5 Oz pOWDEr SUGAr

VANILLA ExTrACT Or pOWDEr

1/2 Lb CrèmE frAIChE

2 Oz fLOUr

1 CUp mILK

1 Lb rASpbErrIES

bUTTEr

DIrECTIONS

1. prEhEAT OVEN TO 356°f

IN A LArGE bOWL, STIr TOGEThEr fLOUr

AND mILK.

2. ADD EGGS, SUGAr, VANILLA AND CrEAm.

STIr AGAIN UNTIL SmOOTh.

3. pUT rASpbErrIES IN A bUTTErED TIN AND

COVEr WITh ThE mIx.

4. bAKE fOr 40 mINUTES.

TASTEMAkERParis PlatesThere Is nOThInG beTTer Than CheerFUl, COlOrFUl sPrInG PrODUCe aFTer lOnG anD COlD WInTer.

brIGhT anD TasTy, They are sO easy TO COOK.

VEG STUFFED zUCCHINISSErVES 4

prEpArE: 20 mINUTES

COOK: 25 mINUTES

INGrEDIENTS

5 zUCChINIS

2 CArrOTS

1/3 Lb qUINOA

DIrECTIONS

1. prEhEAT OVEN TO 356 °f

2. WASh zUCChINIS AND CUT

ExTrEmITIES.

3. CUT 4 zUCChINIS INTO 2 LENGThWISE.

WITh A SpOON TAKE ThE pULp Off AND

ChOp IT.

4. DIp ThESE “SmALL bOATS” INTO

bOILING WATEr fOr 2 mINUTES AND

STrAIN ThEm ApArT IN A pLATE.

4. DICE ThE rEmAINING zUCChINI AND

CArrOTS.

5. hEAT ThE OLIVE OIL IN A pAN AND

LIGhTLy brOWN pULp AND DICES Of

zUCChINI AND CArrOTS.

6. ADD COOKED qUINOA, hALf GrATED

ChEESE, SALT, pEppEr AND pArSLEy.

7. fILL ThE “SmALL bOATS” Of zUCChINIS

WITh ThIS mIx AND SprEAD ThE

rEmAINING GrATED ChEESE.

8. COOK 25 mINUTES.

2 TSp OLIVE OIL

3.5 Oz GrATED ChEESE

2 TSp fINE-CUT pArSLEy

SALT, pEppEr

-Dominique Malet

SPRING ISSUE | 52 SPRING ISSUE | 53

TASTEMAkERTASTEMAkER

the brocantewhat I love:

On any Sunday, in Provence, were I live, there are over thirty flea markets ("brocantes" in French) that come alive. Starting before the first glimmer of light and ending at sunset. You can find anything that you are looking for, and numerous things that you aren't. The small little bits tucked into pages, trunks, drawers, and suit pockets are often the sweetest surprise."

This is how I spend my day, scouring every stall for old stories, memories, treasures in the form of french linens, millinery mixed with ephemera, and beautiful, works of art old stamps.

-Corey Amaro

SPRING ISSUE | 54 SPRING ISSUE | 55

SPRING ISSUE | 56 SPRING ISSUE | 57

WEDDINGS

Lucky in LoveAMY & DAN ♥ NOVEMBER 10 , 2012MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & INDUSTRY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMANDA HEINFLORAL, PAPER & EVENT DESIGN

BY A PERFECT EVENT

SPRING ISSUE | 58 SPRING ISSUE | 59

GORGEOUS GLAM VASES F ILLED F ILLED WITH MANZANITA BRANCHES AND STEPHANOTIS BLOOMS

SPRING ISSUE | 62 SPRING ISSUE | 63

WEDDINGTOP LEFT - ChICaGO sTreeT sIGns Were CUsTOM MaDe, FeaTUrInG aMy anD Dan's ChIlDhOOD, COlleGe, anD aDUlT hOMe aDDresses, FaVOrITe PlaCes, anD MOre!

BOTTOM LEFT - VInTaGe MInIaTUre Keys Were TIeD OnTO rIbbOns WITh eaCh CallIGraPhIeD PlaCeCarD

RIGHT - DIy s'MOres Were The hIT OF The laTe nIGhT MenU, WITh CheFs TOrChInG MarshMallOWs, PlaCInG TheM In a Glass, anD GUesTs POUrInG ChOCOlaTe, PeanUT bUTTer anD FrUIT OnTOP.

diy

SPRING ISSUE | 64 SPRING ISSUE | 65

TASTEMAkER

GET YOUR

Glow1.

2.

3.

4.

ON

a GlOWInG COMPleXIOn Is alWays The GOal

OF any WOMan. IT syMbOlIZes healTh anD

yOUTh anD FOrTUnaTely FOr Us, There are

PrODUCTs aVaIlable TO helP Us aChIeVe IT

QUITe eFFOrTlessly.

The GOal TO GeTTInG a GlOW Is TO aChIeVe

IT WIThOUT lOOKInG lIKe yOU are WearInG

MaKeUP. The FIrsT sTeP Is GeTTInG yOUr sKIn

In The besT shaPe POssIble. eXFOlIaTIOn anD

hyDraTIOn are The Key as yOUr MaKeUP Only

lOOKs as GOOD as The sKIn UnDerneaTh IT.

Stacey Roney

1

5.

PIXI COSMETICS: THE HUNT FOR THE

PERFECTLY PIGMENTED BRONZER IS

OVER. THIS SUPER SILKY POWDER

LOOKS NATURAL AND GIVES JUST

ENOUGH COLOR. $21

RODAN + FIELDS MACRO EXFOLIATOR:

5 MINUTES, ONCE A WEEK- THIS AT

HOME DEVICE REMOVES 5 MILLION

DEAD SKIN CELLS UNCOVERING A

MORE LUMINOUS COMPLEXION. $279

RODAN + FIELDS REVERSE REGIMEN

FOR SUN DAMAGE: IT'S NOT WHAT

YOU SEE, IT'S WHAT YOU DON'T SEE

THAT CAUSES THAT LACKLUSTER

APPEARANCE. REVERSE LIGHTENS

NOT ONLY SURFACE BROWN SPOTS

BUT ALSO THE SUN DAMAGE BELOW

THE SKINS SURFACE. $170

NARS MULTIPLE STICK IN ORGASM: SO

SHEER AND SHIMMERY, THIS BRINGS

ANY SKIN TO LIFE WHEN APPLIED TO

THE APPLES, LIPS OR BROW BONES. $39

BOBBI BROWN SHIMMER BRICK:

COMES IN A VARIETY OF SHADES, BUT

MY PERSONAL FAVORITE IS BRONZE:

THE KEY WORD HERE IS SHIMMER, NOT

GLITTER. LOOKS AMAZING AND CAN

ALSO BE USED AS AN EYESHADOW TOO! $42

1

2

3

4

5

SPRING ISSUE | 66 SPRING ISSUE | 67

TASTEMAkER Life on our olive farm in Saint Rémy de Provence...

revolves around the seasons and in particular the springtime. There is an air of anticipation as the chill and frosts of winter recede into memory and the promise of fresh buds and blossoms put a spring in the step. All year I think about our roses… they are lovingly cared for but more than that they are the signature of our garden… the highpoint of the season. When they bloom I am amazed at their beauty, their sweet fragrance and their ability to enchant. I never tire of the way they look… I love the sound as they rustle in the wind and the scattered petals are our own Provencal confetti. It's many years now that they have been blooming in abundance.. Yet every year, when they begin to open, it is as if it were the first time…

Vicki Archer

SPRING ISSUE | 68 SPRING ISSUE | 69

SPRING ISSUE | 70 SPRING ISSUE | 71

SPRING ISSUE | 72 SPRING ISSUE | 73

FEATURE

We love the lighting and suspended designs from art of Imagination!

rOOm

Fete1520{ }

PHOTOGRAPHY BY AVERYHOUSE

SPRING ISSUE | 74 SPRING ISSUE | 75

DebI DesIGneD MasseD, ClUsTereD FlOrals WITh TUlIPs, ranUnCUlUs, PeOny, rOses, TI leaF anD MOre TO aDD brIGhT, POWerFUl POPs OF COlOr TO The WhITe On WhITe lOFT sPaCe.

SPRING ISSUE | 76 SPRING ISSUE | 77

ClOCKWIse FrOM TOP leFT:

ParMesan aIrbeeT PUDDInG, rOseMary CraCKer

bUbble GUM COTTOn CanDy

TUna anD sOy sUsPensIOnsashIMI sTyle TUna, yUZU anD sOy GelÉe, seaWeeD GÂTeaU

slOW rOasTeD POrKMaC n’ Cheese sOUFFle, hOT MUsTarD POWDer, TOMaTO JaM

SPRING ISSUE | 78 SPRING ISSUE | 79

JUMP BABY JUMP! The TraMPOlIne sMIlebOOTh PhOTO bOOTh CaPTUreD eVery GUesT's CraZy anTICs!

SPRING ISSUE | 80 SPRING ISSUE | 81

THINGS WE LOVE

MORGAN M ARIE

BEAUTY'S SPR ING LIPSTICK AN D LIPGLOSS FAVOR ITES

MORGAN BY RNEMARIE NERI

SPR ING LIPS

MONIK A

GOLDIE M ADONNAM AR LO

M ARY GINA

Named after Chicago's very own PR Maven, Monika Dixon!

sneak peak...a PerFeCT eVenT sUMMer IssUe COMes OUT June 1!

SPRING ISSUE | 82

TASTEMAkERS

243

Artifact Uprising – Artifact Uprising's hard cover albums are printed on 100% recycled paper and bound in linen. Their design tools are very user-friendly and allow you to design a custom book that looks like a pro put it together for you. $12.99+

Mpix – Mpix offers a range of album options for a very affordable price $20+

iPhoto books – If you have a Mac computer of any kind, this is really the best option in my opinion for just getting the job done and can be found in your iPhoto software. The printing quality is fantastic, and they offer incredibly user-friendly design tools. $3.99+

Blurb – While Blurb does offer many pro solutions with advanced book design software, there is an option called Blurb Bookify that helps you put together an album with no experience necessary. $12.99+

Spring is one of my favorite seasons. It’s that time of year when the flowers begin to bloom, days are longer, brighter, and best of all that renewed sense of motivation we all experience drives us to start afresh and clean the heck out of our physical and mental spaces.

Along with organizing our closets and alphabetizing the spice rack, a great spring cleaning project for everyone’s to-do list is taking all of the great pictures you captured last year of your family and putting them in an album.

Not only are family albums a great way to archive your photographs, but more importantly they will become treasured items in your household. There is nothing like the wonderment you will experience as you pull out your albums and go through them with your children.

Favorite family vacations, your children’s ‘firsts,’ or even the memories you didn’t realize how much you cherished until they were gone – don’t let these moments be forgotten or lost amidst files on your hard drive.

Unsure as to how to make your own family album? Here’s my top pro secrets:

1

Suzzanne Brown

FEATURE

Japan in Bloom

rory Griffith and Colin hinkle

My desire to travel to Japan was sparked initially by an uncle of mine, who spent

months working there as a model when I was young and would return with exotic

Japanese trinkets and fascinating stories. as I learned more about the country,

I became enthralled at the dichotomy of a nation trying to be simultaneously

ultra-modern and almost defiantly traditional and conservative.

SPRING ISSUE | 86

The cherry blossom garden park, Chidoriga-fuchi, was a stunning experience. arriving from the busiest

subway station in the country during the busiest rush on a gray morning, we were welcomed by a

tree lined path whose blossoms exploded in vibrant pinks and whites against the dreary sky. It invites

you to take a slow reflexive stroll in nearly reverent silence to take in a calm that seems so elusive

throughout the rest of the city.

SPRING ISSUE | 90 SPRING ISSUE | 91

On a sunday afternoon in Kyoto, we wandered into a hanami, or "flower viewing party," with groups

of folks gathering in outdoor beer gardens and cafes or having picnics on tarps, all in the shadow of a

few enormous weeping cherry trees. as the sun set, a boisterous mood spread throughout the park,

and the groups started an impromptu competition, singing and shouting cheers until the whole park

erupted in laughter.

SPRING ISSUE | 92

RECIPES WE LOVE

Fast 'n Furiousspring strata... gluten free!Note: You will need to start this the day before, but worth it. Great idea to make two at once and throw one in the freezer for future use.

InGreDIenTs:1 onion, diced1 red pepper, diced1 bunch fresh asparagus2 cloves, diced1 pkg all natural sausage links - optional (can use soy sausage if prefer)1 pkg frozen hash browns4 eggs 1 c milk2 c shredded mozzarella cheesesalt and pepper to taste

DIreCTIOns1. sauté onion, pepper, garlic, sausage until brown. Can skip the meat if so inclined. Take off heat and add in a bag of frozen hash browns, shredded cheese, salt and pepper. Put it all in your prettiest casserole pan. 2. In another bIG bowl whisk together eggs and milk and pour over the potato mixture. let it sit in your fridge overnight. 3. In the morning, bring to room temperature and lay fresh asparagus (and other vegetables if you so desire) on top. Think about zucchini, tomatoes. Preheat oven to 350' 4. bake 45 minutes covered, then uncover until bubbly.

In The KITChen WITh KaTy WeTZel

pair with salads, charcuterie board with jams, mustard, cheese, nuts

SPRING ISSUE | 94 SPRING ISSUE | 95

ENGAGEMENT ValJeffand

AN ENGAGEMENT PARTY TO REMEMBER

CLOCKWISE TOP LEFT - DO NOT DISTURB DOOR SIGNS WERE HANDED OUT TO GUESTS AT THE END OF THE EVENING. THE INCREDIBLE VIEW FROM HOTEL 71 PENTHOUSE OVER WRIGLEY BUILDING, TRIBUNE TOWER AND MICHIGAN AVENUE ARCHITECTURE. THE INVITATIONS WERE DESIGNED IN THE BRIDE'S FAVORITE BRIGHT COLORS.

SPRING ISSUE | 96 SPRING ISSUE | 97

MASSED TULIPS AND HYDRANGEA, DESIGNED IN THE BRIDE'S FAVORITE FLOWERS AND COLORS, WERE SET ONTOP BBJ 'S CHIC PLATES AND LINENS FOR VISUAL IMPACT. RIGHT: SWIRLZ CUPCAKES CREATED A CUSTOM WORK OF ART CUPCAKE BAR IN VAL'S FAVORITE BRIGHTS!

SPRING ISSUE | 98 SPRING ISSUE | 99

CLOCKWISE, FROM TOP RIGHT: GLAZED AND INFUSED BAKED MONOGRAMMED MINI DONUTS, RED VELVET AND FLAVORED DONUT HOLES FOR THE DONUT BAR, COMPLETE WITH DIPPING SAUCES AND SPRINKLES. GARRETT'S POPCORN BAR FEATURED FAVORITE FLAVORS, TINS, AND TINY POPCORN BAGS FOR GUESTS TO TASTE AND ENJOY - EVEN TAKE HOME AS FAVORS. HIS AND HERS COCKTAILS INCLUDED BRIDE'S BUBBLES, WITH PROSECCO AND ST. GERMAIN, AND MISTER'S MULE, A GROOM'S SPIN ON THE MOSCOW MULE WITH CUCUMBER VODKA, GINGER BEER, L IME JUICE AND MINT.

HOTEL 71'S AMAZING PASSED SAVORY MENU INCLUDED SHRIMP MARTINIS, SALMON SPOONS, COCONUT SHRIMP COCKTAILS, AND SO MUCH MORE, PASSED THROUGHOUT THE PARTY.

SPRING ISSUE | 102 SPRING ISSUE | 103

GUESTS INCLUDED VAL'S COHOST OF WINDY CITY LIVE, RYAN CHIAVERINI, ANA BELAVAL OF WGN, BILLY DEC, SUNTIMES SPLASH EDITOR SUSANNA AND HUBBY TOM NEGOVAN, PRESIDENT OF ABC, JOHN IDLER.

HOTEL 71, VENUE AND CATERING | CAITLIN COLLINS, PHOTOGRAPHY | SMILEBOOTH, PHOTO BOOTH | SWIRLZ CUPCAKES, CUPCAKE BAR | GLAZED AND INFUSED, DONUT BAR | GARRETT'S POPCORN, POPCORN BAR | FROST, GELATO BAR

SPRING ISSUE | 104 SPRING ISSUE | 105

CELEBRATION

Gigi'sBirthday

blOOMIn'

WHEN MY GIGI HAS A BIRTHDAY, WE GO BIG.

SHE DESERVES IT - GRAND DAME OF THE FAMILY AND ALL.

THE KIDS AND I WORK FOR A WEEK PLANNING, COLORING, CREATING, AND THEN LOAD UP THE CAR AND DRIVE TO

OHIO TO CELEBRATE!

SPRING ISSUE | 106 SPRING ISSUE | 107WINTER ISSUE | 61

party planning tip: HAVE kIDS COLOR bIRTHDAy CARDS AND CUSTOM PLACEMATS

FOR THE bIRTHDAy TAbLE!

SPRING ISSUE | 108 SPRING ISSUE | 109

stylist secret:USING THE bIRTHDAy GIRL'S

FAVORITE COLOR AND FLOWER, CREATE A MONOCOLOR

COLLECTION DOWN THE LENGTH OF THE TAbLE USING FLORALS,

PARTy HATS, NOISEMAkERS, PARTy HORNS, AND MORE.

SPRING ISSUE | 110 SPRING ISSUE | 111

stylist secret:WRAP ALL NATURAL SODA CANS WITH COLORED PAPER AND RIbbONS FOR DRESSED UP DRINkS, SERVED WITH

MATCHING STRAWS WITH WASHI TAPE FLAGS.

kIDS CAN COLOR A SURPRISE "bIRTHDAy bOOk" IN A THREE RING bINDER, PERFECT FOR A

HOMEMADE GIFT!

SPRING ISSUE | 112 SPRING ISSUE | 113

SPRING ISSUE | 114 SPRING ISSUE | 115

SO FAST | SO EASY | SO HEALTHY

TASTEMAkER

THE Joy OF COOKINGSPRING SUPPER – FRENCH ROAST CHICKEN

INGREDIENTS

1 whole chicken (I use Miller's Amish chickens)

2 tbsp soft butter

4 tbsp herbs de Provence (I like Herbs de Provence from Aux Anysetier du Roy from Amazon.com - it is a splurge, worth it for the French lavender)

half of a lemon

kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper

1 red onion quartered

6 brussels sprouts halved

1 small sweet potato, cut in 1/2 inch chunks

4-6 small red new potatoes halved

1 yellow squash, cut into 1 inch pieces

DIRECTIONS

1. Rinse your chicken with water and dry with a towel.

2. Let the bird come to room temperature 30 minutes.

3. Preheat oven 450 degrees (chickens like it hot!)

4. Sprinkle inside of the bird with 1 tbsp of herb de Provence and a very generous sprinkle of salt and pepper.

5. Insert 1/2 lemon into the carcas of the chicken.

6. Rub your bird with softened butter.

7. Cover the buttered bird w/ the remaining herbs, salt and pepper.

8. Using butcher's twine tie your bird up tight. This will help the chicken to cook evenly and look pretty for presentation

9. Place bird on a backing rack in top of a roasting pan on lower rack of oven

10. While chicken is roasting prep your vegetables. Drizzle with 1 tbsp of olive oil, sprinkle of kosher salt and fresh pepper. After the chicken has roasted for 30 minutes add vegetables to the roasting pan beneath the chicken. Turn the temperature down to 350 for the remaining time.

10. Roast bird for about 20 minutes per pound

11. To check for doneness tilt the chicken and if the juice from the bird is clear (no hint of pink) it is time for dinner!

12. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before carving.

JOY MOLLET

SPRING ISSUE | 116 SPRING ISSUE | 117

TASTEMAkER

S PRING HERALDS THE ARRIVAL OF WARM AND SUNNY DAYS, CHIRPING BIRDS AND BLOSSOMING FLORA. BEING FROM THE MIDWEST, HOWEVER,

WINTER USUALLY OUTSTAYS ITS WELCOME. SO WHILE THE WEATHER TRIES TO CATCH UP TO THE SEASON, I BRING A TOUCH OF SPRINGTIME SPIRIT TO MY KITCHEN BY ADDING BRIGHT, FLAVORFUL FLOWERS TO MY COOKING AND COCKTAILS. FOR DINNER PARTIES, I LIKE TO START WITH A HIBISCUS SPARKLER APERITIF. THE FLOWERS AND SYRUP CAN BE PLACED IN THE FLUTES BEFORE GUESTS ARRIVE AND THEN TOPPED WITH CHAMPAGNE À LA MINUTE. THE RICH RED, SYRUP-SOAKED HIBISCUS FLOWER NESTLED INTO THE BOTTOM OF THE FLUTE IS COAXED INTO BLOOM BY THE BUBBLES OF THE CHAMPAGNE MAKING IT A FUN, YET ELEGANT ENTRÉE TO THE PARTY. WEARY OF HEAVY WINTER DISHES, I LOVE TO SERVE HEALTHY, BLOOMING SALADS THAT SING OF SPRING AS A LUNCHEON COURSE. MYRIAD FLOWERS CAN BE ADDED INTO SALADS, BUT I FAVOR THE DELICATE PETALS AND PEPPERY FLAVOR OF CALENDULA AND MARIGOLD. THE YELLOW AND ORANGE SUNSHINE SHADES PROVIDE A BRILLIANT CONTRAST TO THE DEEP, GREEN MIX OF BABY CHARD, KALE AND SPINACH. NUTRIENT RICH SUNFLOWER SEEDS ADD TEXTURAL CRUNCH WHILE THE SHERRY-DIJON DRESSING LENDS A POP OF BRIGHTNESS TO THIS SIMPLE SALAD. MORE RECIPES CAN BE FOUND ON CULINARY CURATOR’S WEBSITE GLAMOURGRUB.COM

CaT De OrIO

hibiscus sparklerSErVES 6

INGrEDIENTS

• 6 WiLd hibiscus fLoWers in syrup*

• bottLe of sparkLing Wine, prosecco or

ChAmpAGNE, ChILLED

DIrECTIONS

pLACE ONE hIbISCUS fLOWEr rIGhT-SIDE Up IN

ThE bOTTOm Of A ChAmpAGNE fLUTE. ADD hALf A

TEASpOON Of SyrUp frOm JAr TO ThE fLUTE. TOp

WITh SpArKLING WINE.

*can be found at WhoLe foods and on-Line at aMazon.coM

CLICK HERE!Vote for Cat to be the next

host of Check Please! Flower Power SaladyIELD 1 SIDE SALAD

INGrEDIENTS

• 2 cups Mix of organic baby spinach, organic baby red and green chard,

OrGANIC bAby KALE

• 1 tabLespoon edibLe caLenduLa (MarigoLd) petaLs

• tabLespoon sunfLoWer seeds; sheLLed and toasted

• 3 sMaLL caLenduLa (MarigoLd) bLossoMs, for garnish

DIrECTIONS

IN A bOWL, COmbINE bAby GrEENS AND fLOWEr pETALS. TOSS WITh 2 TAbLESpOONS

VINAIGrETTE. TrANSfEr TO SErVING DISh. SprINKLE WITh SUNfLOWEr SEEDS AND

GArNISh WITh WhOLE fLOWEr bLOSSOmS.

sherry dijon vinaigrette INGrEDIENTS

• 3 tabLespoons extra-Virgin oLiVe oiL

• 1 teaspoons diJon Mustard

• 1 teaspoons high QuaLity spanish sherry Vinegar

• 2 teaspoons fresh tarragon, fineLy choppped

• 1 tabLespoon shaLLots, Minced

• saLt

• freshLy ground bLack pepper

DIrECTIONS

IN A SmALL bOWL COmbINE ALL Of

ThE INGrEDIENTS ExCEpT ThE OLIVE

OIL. ADD ThE OLIVE OIL IN A SLOW,

STEADy STrEAm WhISKING UNTIL IT

EmULSIfIES. SEASON TO TASTE WITh

SALT AND pEppEr.

RECIPES DEVELOPED BY CULINARY CURATO©CULINARY CURATOR

CATHERINE DE ORIO

SPRING ISSUE | 118 SPRING ISSUE | 119

CELEBRATION

AprilShowers BBJ sIlVer CalIsTa OVerlayBBJ eMeralD laMOUr ClOTh, naPKInsBBJ lUXe eMeralD Green CharGerA PERFECT EVENT FlOrals, VOTIVes, PaPersTABLESCAPES PARTY RENTAL ChIna, Glasses, sIlVerWare

PhOTOs by aVeryhOUse

BBJ's TABLE OF THE MONTH LOOKBOOK

SPRING ISSUE | 120 SPRING ISSUE | 121

DIy DInnerParTy DeTaIl : WashI TaPe + PlaCeCarDs = instant chic!

MayFlowers

BBJ COrsICa GOlD seQUIn lInen OVerlayBBJ PInK ChaMPaGne laMOUr ClOTh, naPKInsBBJ CIrCle sQUare GOlD GlITTer CharGerA PERFECT EVENT FlOrals, VOTIVes, PaPersTABLESCAPES PARTY RENTAL ChIna, Glasses, sIlVerWare, barsTOOls

BBJ's TABLE OF THE MONTH LOOKBOOK

SPRING ISSUE | 123

DIY BRIDE - Shea designed HER OWN INVITATIONS ON HER MAC, AND PRINTED THEM HERSELF - COMPLETE

WITH WEDDING DAY ADVICE MAD-L IB RSVP CARDS

SPRING ISSUE | 124 SPRING ISSUE | 125

DEE'S 50TH

BIRTHDAY BASH

CELEBRATION

Photography byBrittany Bekas Photography

DEE'S 50TH

BIRTHDAY BASH

1. 3 steps to Pomegranate Bellinis!

2. add pomegranateseeds to champagneflutes

filldrinkingjar

RECIPE | 1 cup POM juice | 1 cup Sugar | 1 Bottle Sparkling Wine (Spumante, Prosecco, any sweet variety) |

Combine POM and Sugar in a small sauce pan. Bring to a low boil. Reduce heat and simmer over low heat for 15 minutes. Cool.

Place pomegranate seeds int he bottom of a champagne flute.

Pour about 1 Tbls POM syrup into the bottom of a glass, top with sparkling wine.

3. fill glasses with bellinis, enjoy!

SPRING ISSUE | 130 SPRING ISSUE | 131

Add in fruit for an instant spring touch!

collections of florals in Dee's favorite colors varied room to room, surrounded by hundreds of votive and floating candles

SPRING ISSUE | 134 SPRING ISSUE | 135

The entire party menu was vegan - even the cake!do you believe...

favorite new spring giftclick here to buy now!

ENGAGEMENT

PETER & JACKIEENGAGEMENT SESSION

KOREA

story by our sweet bride jackie:

the process of "rehearsal" photos in korea is a wedding tradition.

there are many rehearsal studios in seoul. some are more vintage, other more modern, each place has their signature backgrounds, props, and some studios take glamorous photos while some take very cute ones. we loved montble because the pictures were romantic, dreamy, natural, and the backdrops were simple yet beautiful.

to us, the funniest part was the intimacy during the photo shoot. our dear photographer was very nice and funny during the whole shoot, telling us situations to imagine so we would smile big or make certain facial expressions. koreans are physically affectionate, but kissing on the lips is not common, especially in public. i'm guessing that usually couples are shy kissing in front of the photographer when he requests it, but as americans, kissing is a everyday thing for us, so we did it with ease. the photographer pretended like he was horrified, but in a fun, jovial manner.

the first time stepping into the studio was really cool. from the pictures, you'd think it's a huge, grand place but it really wasn't. all the backgrounds and sets intertwined like a funny house, which really shows you the skill and talent of the photographer at montble studio.

really special moments were ones that wouldn’t happen back at home. in korea, bride and groom go together to select the wedding dresses and tuxedos, for the photos and for the actual wedding as well. but shopping for a dress is a ladies’ thing here, so it was really special for both of us to have peter sit there every time the sales associates drew the curtains to present me in different dresses.

the photo shoot took 12 straight hours - with no breaks, because we had to constantly change wardrobe. we couldn’t tell the time because we were in a basement studio with fake natural lighting. when we finally finished and looked at the time on our phones, it was 8 pm - we were shocked! we had so much fun through the entire process that even when it took 12 hours, we couldn’t believe that it was over so fast. we thought it was still middle of afternoon!

"i loved this formal, heavily beaded bodice with a huge tulle skirt dress!"

"having hair & make up done together onsite in the studio, and seeing each other after getting dressed was so special. we were both dolled up – and so in love – and so excited at each and every turn."

engagement shoot tip:show off your personalities and style!

"people do at least one han-bok scene, which is the korean traditional clothing."

SPRING ISSUE | 144

can you believe that all these photos were taken in one warehouse with artificial lighting? DERBY"koreans love matching clothes

so most of the time people will get lovey-dovey couple shirts."

turn your engagement pictures into save the dates... and even custom stamps!

SPRING ISSUE | 146 SPRING ISSUE | 147

Run Roses!

FOR THE

_DIY DERBY DECOR_ mass colorblocked roses in silver

trophy vases, or julep cups

(our Debi Lilly Design julep cups on shelves now at Safeway are perfect!)

DERBY

_DIY SILKS DRINK STRAWS_

These jockey silks make fun, themed drink straws in minutes.

download file here

cut, wrap, glue

_WHAT WE'RE SERVING UP_bacon slaw sliders

churchill mac n cheeseblue cheese wedge

_MINT JULIP_ 4 fresh mint sprigs

2 1/2 oz bourbon whiskey 1 tsp powdered sugar

2 tsp water

Muddle mint leaves, powdered sugar, and water in a collins glass. Fill the glass with shaved or crushed ice and add bourbon. Top with more ice and

garnish with a mint sprig.

Serve with DIY drink straw for that perfect derby touch.

CINCO DE MAYO

Olé! 5 steps to cinco de mayo decorneed:-Debi Lilly Design Cupcake and Cake stands in small and medium size, exclusively at Safeway/Dominicks-White cardstock-Scotch tape-Scissors-1 bunch Mokara Orchids

click and print our vintage Mexico travel postcards PDF onto white cardstock

cut postcards, roll tiny bit of tape, tape together at tippy top edge to create "tent"

step 1 step 2

cover base of stand w plucked orchid blooms to create colorful floral collection

stand up the postcard "tent" inside cake stand

add cake dome, and boom, fiesta!

step 3 step 4

step 5

DIY napkin ring - print, cut, roll napkin and wrap, securing back with tape!

SPRING ISSUE | 153download your own cinco de mayo decor here!

DIY menus/placecards - just click, print, and fill in!

DIY pennant - click, print, cut and assemble?

MOTHER'S DAY

DIy mother's daygifts

I aM always and forever snaPPInG aWay

WITh My CaMera... anD These shOTs

TaKen aT My grandmother's house are

PerFeCT FOr GIFTInG ThIs MOTher's Day.

four generations, in hands(FrOM aGe 10 TO aGe 85, leFT TO rIGhT)

four generations, framed(snaP eaCh PersOn hOlDInG The eMPTy FraMe, PhOTOshOP

TheM InTO The FraMe One by One, In OrDer OF aGe)

SPRING ISSUE | 156

T A S T E M A k E R

rosemary Fanti

For orders:prices start at $300

rosemary Fantirosemary@rosemaryfanti.com

815-341-3340

rosemary combined two photographs for Debi to create this four generation sketch, in front of the family favorite Mere de Famille (mother of the family) candy store in Paris.

Mother's Day GiftingnOThInG, In OUr hUMble OPInIOn, COMPares TO The GIFT OF arTWOrK.

DebI's PICK FOr MOTher's Day - CUsTOM IllUsTraTIOns OF MOM anD FaMIly.

Grab a FaVOrITe FaMIly PhOTO - Or TWO - anD senD TheM rIGhT On In TO OUr Dear rOseMary FOr The GIFT MOM WIll absOlUTely TreasUre.

surprise Candace! happy Mother's Day from Debi

and rosemary!

Candace's favorite photo taken at theFontainebleu pool in Miami beach.

SPRING ISSUE | 158 SPRING ISSUE | 159

TASTEMAkER

In The KITChen WITh

ROSS SVEBACK

Mother’s Day Brunch for a BunchOUr FaVe CheF abOUT TOWn, rOss sVebaCK,

has The bIG Meal FOr MOM COVereD.

Pretty. Delish. Fresh.

giardiniera,ital ian-style pickled vegetables

Giardiniera means ‘from the garden’.Recipes differ, and mine contains the standard carrots, celery and peppers, purple and green cauliflower, as well as fresh garlic cloves and baby white and red onions from the farmer’s market. Even my carrots are baby carrots from the farmer’s market, left in their rustic state – I simply scrub them and do not peel them. To me, giardiniera is about nibbling on brightly-colored vegetables that inspire conversation. Making this recipe requires time, so I like to sit at the kitchen table with my daughter and do the prep work together and talk about our week as it makes the work load lighter and faster!

Note: I brine all my vegetables in a large, 2 1/2 gallon jar as it needs to be refrigerated for 18-24 hours before you flash cook and “can” them.

ingredients2 heads cauliflower (I use 1 green and 1 purple) – cut into medium florets1 lb. baby carrots (from the farmer’s market)2 red peppers, seeded and rough large chopped2 yellow peppers, seeded and rough chopped1 lb. celery, rough chopped2 lb. baby onions (I use half red and half white)3 heads fresh garlic, peeled (roughly 24-30 cloves)12 c water2 c pickling salt2 qts. white vinegar2 qts. filtered water1/4 c yellow mustard seed1/4 c brown mustard seed1/4 c celery seed2 Tien Tsin dried peppers3 c. sugar1 lb. unpitted olive mix from quality olive bar1 fresh bay leaf for packing in each jar.

directions1. place 12c water and salt into jar and stir to dissolve. Add all of the vegetables, except the olives (these will be added directly to the jars. place cover and refrigerate for 18-24 hours. before you start the next step, make sure you have sterilized your jars and your canning water is simmering you plan on placing the giardiniera in right beforehand.2. Combine the vinegar, sugar, mustard seed, celery seed and peppers into one large pot (or two smaller pots, dividing the mixture evenly) and bring to a boil, cooking for 5 minutes. Turn off the heat and discard the chili peppers.3. Divide the vegetables between the jars, making sure to add the olives and slide one fresh bay leaf into the side of the jar facing the top outward. Add liquid, making sure you have 1/2″ headroom in the top of each jar. shake to remove any air bubbles, then wipe the rims of each jar and place rubber rings and lids.

corn dog madeleinesI always enjoy taking the everyday recipe and turning it on it’s head, like the simple corn dog turned into a fancy and cheeky version of the traditional French Madeleine. This recipe makes 16 bite-size versions of this kid and adult favorite. I prefer to use one cob of fresh corn for the kernels, yet you can use 1/2 cup canned or frozen corn should you desire – fresh corn will give you more flavor.

ingredients1 tbsp. butter, melted1/3 c. buttermilk1 egg1/2 c. fresh corn kernels1 tsp. sugar2 tbsp. flour1/3 c. cornmeal1/2 tsp. baking sodasalt and pepper to taste6 all natural hot dogs, cut into thirds

directions1. preheat oven to 375 degrees and prep a regular-sized madeleine pan by spraying it with cooking spray. 2. melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl, then add buttermilk and egg, mixing with a fork to combine. Add corn, sugar, flour, cornmeal, baking soda, salt and pepper – stirring again with fork to combine. 3. Divide between 16 wells and place into the oven for 4 minutes, remove from oven and place hot dog section on top of each madeleine – the middles should be slightly undercooked so the hot dog settles into it and bakes with the madeleine. place back into the oven and bake for 5 more minutes. 4. remove from oven, allow to sit for five minutes – serve with ketchup, and enjoy!

SPRING ISSUE | 161

bloody mary saladI love a Bloody Mary, full of spices and extra things to chomp on, so I wanted to create a salad that reminds me of it. I was tossing ideas around in my head for a while and then when I ran across the mini pepperoni at the supermarket it all came together. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I did. For the celery, I pulled off all the leaves – keeping them whole, and set them aside adding them to the dish before tossing. This also makes a fantastic crostini too. Serves 12 as a salad.

ingredientsSALAD2 stalks celery + leaves, chopped2 pts. cherry tomatoes, halved10 vermouth-spiked pearl onions, halved top to bottom1/2 c. hormel mini pepperoni, chopped1 c. garlic-stuffed olives, sliced into thirds1/2 c. blue cheese, crumbled2 slices bacon, fried crisp and chopped

DrESSING2 tbsp. vodka1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce2 tbsp. olive oil1 tbsp. horseradish mustard1/4 c. V8 Spicyzest and juice of one lemon

directions1. mix all salad ingredients together2. Whisk together ingredients and pour over salad, gently tossing – serve.

SPRING ISSUE | 164 SPRING ISSUE | 165

moroccan beef with cinnamon, sea salt noodlesThis meal is truly like taking a vacation to Marrakech. From the time you start opening and measuring the spices to searing the meat and finishing up by tasting the flavors of this dish – it’s wonderful. The beef is coated with spices like turmeric and cinnamon then seared. It is then braised in a mixture of crushed tomatoes, fresh lemon juice and Saffron for a couple of hours. Finally, topped with noodles that have been infused with cinnamon and sea salt. This is comfort food, Moroccan-style.

ingredients

bEEf4-5 lb. boneless chuck roast, cut into 2” pieces1/3 c. flour seasoned with ″ tsp. salt and ″ tsp. pepperOlive oil3 large red onions, sliced2 cinnamon stick1 tbsp. ground ginger1″tsp. saffron2 tsp. coarse-ground pepper2 tsp. turmeric4 tbsp. unsalted butter1 32-oz. can crushed tomatoesjuice of one lemon

directions1. Dredge meat with seasoned flour mixture to coat. In 5 qt. skillet over medium high heat add olive oil. 2. brown beef in batches on most sides, setting browned pieces into a bowl and aside – adding more olive oil when needed to keep beef browning and not sticking. Once beef is done, add onions and butter – saute to soften onions and remove browned bits from bottom of pot. 3. Add cinnamon stick, saffron, pepper and turmeric, stirring to combine. Add beef back to pot and water until 1/2 inch to top of beef. 4. bring back to boil, reduce heat and cover to simmer for three hours. 5. remove from heat and let rest while you make the noodles.

ingredients

NOODLES1 lb. spaghetti noodles, broken into quarters2 tbsp. olive oil2 tsp. sea salt1 tsp. cinnamon

directions1. Cook spaghetti according to manufacturers directions in heavily salted water, drain. Add to bowl with 2 tbsp. olive oil and toss to coat. 2. mix salt and cinnamon together, then toss in together with the noodles. 3. place beef ontop noodles, and serve.

SPRING ISSUE | 166 SPRING ISSUE | 167

Shades of Li lac Cake…a celeb fan favorite, in people Magazine!

Ombre shaded, gradual tones as seen in the world of fashion and textiles for centuries, here fashioned into a cake. This version is done in lilac for Spring! This recipe is fashioned for two, with leftovers for later….

Out of the ordinary tools for this project are my 6″ cake pans and Americolor colors since I became accustomed to them with my cookie decorating. As you can see from the photo, the color range is ombre. I used a Wilton 22 tip to decorate the rosettes. As with frosting any cake, refrigerating it so it is completely chilled will ensure a much easier frosting experience. For this cake, I suggest refrigeration before you do the crumb coat and before you pipe the final layer. I use one, 9.5 c container of my Vanilla-Bean Buttercream frosting, which I then tint as needed. This will make a four-layer cake.

ingredients

CAKE1.5 cup butter, room temperature2 cup sugar5 whole eggs2 1/4 cup buttermilk1 tbsp. baking powder1 tsp. baking soda1/2 tsp. salt1 tbsp. vanilla bean paste3 cup cake flourfood colors desired (see note above)prepare 4, 6″ round cake pans by spraying them with cooking spray or butter/flour – preheat oven to 350 degrees. In the bowl of a mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream butter and sugar together – then add eggs one a time until incorporated, followed by the buttermilk. Add baking powder, soda, salt and vanilla bean paste – stirring to combine. Add cake flour and mix until batter begins to look creamy.

directions1. Divide batter evenly into three bowls, AND one prepared cake pan (this will be your uncolored layer). To the first bowl add a tiny amount of desired color and stir to combine with a fork. 2. Scrape into one of the prepared pans – set aside. In the second bowl, add a larger amount of color so your next batch is more vibrant, stirring with a fork to incorporate. Scrape into one of the prepared pans – set aside. 3. In the third bowl add a larger amount of the color, adding more if necessary – so it is a level darker than the last, stirring with a fork to combine well. Scrape into one of the prepared pans – set aside.4. place prepared pans into preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until tester comes out clean. you may need to move pans around if your oven has hot spots. remove from oven and let cool for 15 minutes, then invert cakes out onto rack to cool completely. Wrap with plastic wrap and place into refrigerator to chill fully.5. remove from refrigerator when you are ready to ice layers together and put on crumb coat.

SPRING ISSUE | 168 SPRING ISSUE | 169

vani l la-bean buttercream icingThis is a modified version of the frosting recipe my grandmother always used. She was a big proponent of shortening as it was her belief that it stood up well in the heat at family gatherings. I make this recipe in two stages, then combine the two separate recipes together. This makes a boatload of frosting, which is easily stored in the freezer. I divide them into 9.5 c storage containers and pull them out as the need arises – makes life so easy!

ingredientsSTEp 14 cups sugar1 cup water4 whole eggs + 4 egg whites1 lb (4 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature1.5 lb (3 sticks) regular shortening sticks, room temperature1 tbsp. vanilla-bean paste

directions1. place sugar and water into a medium saucepan and bring to boil, cook until a candy thermometer reaches softball stage (235-240 degrees). 2. remove from heat and set aside. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment beat 4 whole eggs and 4 egg whites, then slowly pour in the hot syrup. Once all the syrup is added, set timer and allow mixture to whip for ten minutes. 3. pour syrup into a pitcher to cool. you will want to refrigerate the syrup for at least four hours, or overnight – you can also leave it on the counter to cool as well. Once syrup has cooled, take a spoon and remove the foam that has risen to the top (there is no need to get every ounce of it, just the majority).4. place clean bowl back in the mixer and add the butter and shortening with whisk attachment. 5. beat on high speed, stopping 2 or 3 times to scrape the bowl – ingredients should be light in color and have a whipped texture. Add the vanilla bean paste and slowly pour in the syrup. 6. place mixer on low and edge up to medium high until all of the ingredients are incorporated and the icing looks fluffy.

ingredients

STEp 216 oz. cream cheese room temperature1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature2 lb. powdered sugar1 tbsp vanilla bean paste

directions1. place cream cheese and butter into a bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, and mix to combine well. 2. Add powdered sugar and mix again until no visible lumps appear, finally adding the vanilla bean paste at the end.3. Combine STEp 1 & STEp TWO, mixing well until it is completely incorporated. Should be at room temperature to frost cake.

3050 n. lInCOln aVenUe• ChICaGO | 773•244•9333

GET YOUR SUGAR HIGH IN STORE OR CUSTOM DESIGNED FOR YOUR NEXT EVENT!

aManDa heIn - PhOTO

SPRING ISSUE | 170 SPRING ISSUE | 171

T H I N G S W E L O V E

We love donuts.

We love fondue

We love Glazed+Infused Donut Fondue!

Delivered to your door, ready to party

Order for your spring parties at 312-226-5556.

Sprinkle options and colors can vary

PAST MEETS PRESENTMOTher DaUGhTer TrIP TO ThaIlanD

by Christine Janda

Going to Thailand with my Mom was on my bucket list. I knew with this trip, I would learn so much more about my Mom, and where she spent her first 18 years. A few months back I came across gorgeous photos of my Mother from her childhood - pictures that I have never before seen - and with family members I have never before met.

I had an idea for our trip - to recreate the very same photographs of her youth - thirty years later.

Just a few days before our trip my Dad and I scanned and printed all of her beautiful pictures. I emailed family in Thailand attaching all pictures asking for help to scope out the same locations. I wanted to recreate photos of my Mom, from years ago, and now with me at her side. In front of dazzling gold temples in Bangkok, riding motorcycles in Chiang Mai and walking along picturesque beaches in Phuket, we did just that.

What fun! I had no idea that our photo assignment would bring so much love and adventure to our trip. My first trip to Thailand and my Mom's first return in thirty years.

Everyone got involved, from my 6 & 8 year old cousins to our tour guide in Phuket. And - best of all - we even got creative along the way. Mom had her own ideas, and recreated some of her own pictures. I took inspiration from others to create exciting, beautiful new photos and memories.

"Kob kun kaa" Thailand, for making our mother daughter trip...pure magic.

MOTHER'S DAY

sCOPInG OUT The sCene FOr The PerFeCT shOT!

My lITTle COUsIns - helPers FOr The Day!

BEHIND THE SCENES

ClOCKWIse: PrInTsTaGraM.COM 100 PhOTO bOOK $12 • CaMeO CanDle $28 * beaDeD MOnOGraM ClUTCh $130 • IKaT MOnOGraM WrIsTleT $90 • eIFFel TOWer GIFT bOX $13

Mom'sGorgeous Gifts

MOM's FaVe PhOTOs MaDe InTO TIny InsTaGraM braG bOOKs!

SPRING ISSUE | 178 SPRING ISSUE | 179

Crafty Mother's DayDaD - TaKe nOTe!

MOMs - sO FUn FOr KIDs TO MaKe FOr yOU anD hIDe UnTIl yOUr bIG Day, Or FOr babysITTers, GranDMas, aUnTIes.

Paper + markers + stickers = Mom art! Favorite words to describe mom, color pictures that remind you of mom...

Easiest

MOTHER'S DAY

Mom's fave chocolate bar + Mom's fave color paper + tape + markers = Custom Candybar

Cut paper to wrap around candy bar, tape closed. Decorate paper with sweet poems, and loving artwork.

Easy

lovely lily

Paper + hands + Markers + scissors + Tape = lily

1. Trace hands onto paper. Cut out hands. Form hands into flower shape, tape bottom. 2. Cut out a green stem, green leaf, brown flower pot (can also draw these with markers!) 3. Fold sheet of paper in half, into a card shape. 4. Tape all into a flower shape on front cover, with personal poem or message inside.

StillEasy!

THINGS WE LOVE

runway sketchlOVe arT? lOVe FashIOn?

We are ObsesseD WITh rhI's rUnWay

FashIOn sKeTChes FOr sPrInG!

EMAIL RHI AT

RHI@SKETCHDESIGNLOUNGE.COM

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT

SKETCHDESIGNLOUNGE.COM

HIGH FASHION

1-2 FIGURES

$90

PRECISION FASHION

1-2 FIGURES

$130

PRECISION LIFE

3-4 FIGURES

$150

makes a great wedding gift!

HIGH FASHION

5-6 FIGURES

$125

PRECISION LIFE

5-6 FIGURES

$270

SKETCH

5-6 FIGURES

$150

GRADUATION

DIY GRADUATION CELEBRATIONS

from fancy...to fun!

Look 1: Fancy Sweets Party

Debi's stylist secrets to set the table

• Layer your table with texture and

detail using china, flowers, ribbon, and candles.

• a hint of ribbon adds and instant finishing touch and pop of color.

• design decor and accents in a group of three, varying the height for interest and style.

• add whimsy with flowers tucked into the table. The debi lilly design™ fleur de Lys tea cup is perfect for a "vase" and the debi lilly design™ fluted Vase turned upside down, a candle holder.

Fleur de lys table setting, cupcake stand, ribbon, and fluted vase

Look 1: Fancy Sweets Party

(All from Debi Lilly Design, Safeway!) safeway bakery cakes fit perfectly

into Debi lilly Design cakestands,

just add ribbon to finish the look!

3 steps to a sweet spring dessert

NO bAKING! GLUTEN frEE!

need:• debi lilly chocolate tulip cups, exclusive to safeway/dominicks

• Large container all natural vanilla yogurt

• fresh organic raspberry, blueberry, blackberry, rinsed

• fresh mint + What else is missing?

Step 1 - fill choc cups with yogurt

Step 2 - top with berries

Step 3 - garnish with mint leaf!All from Debi Lilly Design, Safeway!

the graduate's fave flaves cookie bar!

Step 1 - fill each vase with one flavor cookie

Step 2 - wrap ribbon around vase, tape in back

Step 3 - garnish with cookie flavor tag

need:• debi lilly design illusion vases, exclusive to safeway/dominicks (can substitute glass cylinders or jars)

• debi Lilly design ribbons in school colors

• favorite cookie flavors of the graduate - from the neighborhoo grocery/bakery, or homemade family recipes

• cardstock tags for flavors

• double sided tape

Cake stands make great displays too!

Medium Cake Stand, Silver Julep Cup with Roses, Valencia Vase with Chic Rose Bouquets

Look 2: Fun Backyard Bash!

SPRING ISSUE | 189

Rio Tins, Rio Carafes, Topiaries Kalanchoes, lemons, limes, oranges, water infused drinks tyme & lime, lemon & rosemary.

Debi's stylist secrets to setting the backyard bar• Create an instant party focal point using debi lilly design™ snack Tins and rio Glass, for a beautiful bar set with bright, bold color.

• Fill a collection of rio Glass carafes with citrus and herb sparkling water infusions - lemon and rosemary, lime and Thyme, and more for heart healthy drinks.

• Kalanchoes and potted plants tucked into tin buckets make fast, fresh, long lasting floral centerpieces.

• Tins are just as fun with pyramids of fresh citrus, snack mixes or ice buckets

SPRING ISSUE | 190

TRAVEL

Floral Finds in Thailand

A TRIP TO BANGKOK'S LARGEST FLOWER MARKET

mArIGOLD GArLAND, hAND STrUNG ONE by ONE

bUNChES Of LOCAL OrChIDS, rOSES, ChrySANThEmUm

AND JASmINE fILLED ThE STrEETS

SPRING ISSUE | 192

3050 N. LINCOLN AVENUE• CHICAGO | 773•244•9333

OUr PaPer shOP

INVITATIONS, MENU CARDS, PLACECARDS, FAVORS, AND MORE!SPRING ISSUE | 193

sweet endings.APERFECT EVENT SUMMER ISSUE COMES OUT JUNE 1!

photo - AveryHousesweets- Baked the Bakery

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