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Suffering from Skin Damage this Summer? Fight it with these Foods!

August 16, 2010 by Jenny P. | Comments (0)

We all want beautiful skin, especially during the “skin showing” months of summer. So how do we get it without spending a fortune at the Clinique counter? By eating antioxidant rich foods, that’s how. Your skin, just like every other organ in your body, needs antioxidant laden foods to keep it healthy and toxin free. Here are some of the most important foods to eat for beautiful skin. Try to get these delicious foods into your diet as often as possible and I promise you will love the results.

Foods for beautiful skin:

Sunflower seeds, Swiss chard, and almonds- What do they all have in common? Vitamin E! Vitamin E works to protect skin from ultra violet rays and rejuvenate the cells. Sauté swiss chard with garlic and olive oil and top with a mix of toasted almonds and sunflower seeds. Vitamin E never tasted so good!

Cauliflower, walnuts, and cabbage- Did you think wild salmon was the only place to get Omega 3 fatty acids? Well get excited because they are in vegetables too! Omega 3’s are essential in creating beautiful skin for they help maintain cell membranes. It is these membranes that act as barriers for the body, letting water and nutrients in, and keeping toxins out. Make an easy cabbage slaw topped with walnuts then steam cauliflower and serve with a lemon tahini sauce (also packed with Vitamin C). After these two dishes, your skin will be good to go!

Carrots, Kale, and Apricots- Not only are these foods quick and easy to get your hands on, they also serve up a giant does of Vitamin A (aka Beta Carotene). Vitamin A is involved in the repair and growth of body tissues, which is particularly beneficial when dealing with sun damaged skin. Stir-fry carrots and kale with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce for a great side dish. For the apricots, try throwing them on the grill for a great summer dessert!

Bell peppers, broccoli, and strawberries- Loaded with more vitamin C than an orange, these foods work to create collagen in the skin and protect your lovely epidermis from oxidative stress. Best ways to eat them? Grill the peppers and broccoli or eat them raw with hummus. As for strawberries, just pop them in your mouth (or put them in a crisp).

Shitake mushrooms, cod and shrimp- Mushrooms (both shittake and crimini), cod, and shrimp are chock full of selenium, a potent nutrient that promotes skin elasticity and quality. Broil cod with a fresh tomatoes and basil. For the shrimp and mushrooms, toss them into an easy Thai curry. So good!

*This post was written by Jamie Dougherty for the Please feel free to contact Jamie with questions or to share your health, wellness and foodie stories. Email: jamiegd@jamieliving.com Facebook: JAMIE LIVING Twitter:JAMIE LIVING

Great Shops for Back to School!

August 4, 2010 by Jenny P. | Comments (0)

The season for back-to-school shopping is here! It’s the time for gathering new pencils, erasers and most importantly new clothes for your ever-growing kiddies. Here in Chicago we’ve found some great, unique shops and boutiques that will have your kids entering this school year with complete confidence.

Peek-A-Boutique
When looking for a unique new wardrobe for your children, Peek-A-Boutique has exactly what you need! Each item is hand selected by owner Stacy Weitzman, many of which are made by local artists. This kid gear will have your little ones entering their first years of school looking their best!

Randoons Wearables and Whatnots
Randoons is a hip clothing, accessory, and gift boutique bringing city style to the ‘burbs. A couture cafĂ©, inspired by all things sweet and funky. Offering contemporary jeans and unique t-shirts, its a place where kids will find something to fit their own personal style.

Stellar26
For your older kids going back to school, this clothing boutique is perfect for everything they need. Combining with designers like Quiksilver, Free People, O’Neill, and Element; these styles are cool and fun with a splash of urban edge, Stellar26 is a simple, cool, laid back place to shop; perfect for your kids checklist for back-to-school clothes.

Bloggers To Watch Out For: Fashionistas

August 2, 2010 by Jenny P. | Comments (1)

From runway show recaps to laid-back street looks, the world of fashion blogging is a vibrant virtual scene. It’s not necessarily about the newest, hottest, or spendiest trend — it’s about the textiles, color palettes and silhouettes that make us feel gorgeous.

For a jolt of wardrobe inspiration to pull you through the dog days of summer, bookmark Jazzi McGilbert, Sally McGraw and “Miss” James Kicinski. While their personal styles may diverge, their message is the same: get dressed, and get going!

Jazzi McGilbert of JazziMcG.com

Thrift store scenester? Or haute couture hound? Jazzi McGilbert (aka Jazzi McG) confidently struts straight down the center of the spectrum. Her blog traipses through the world of high fashion, throws the spotlight on intimate “intern confessionals” and shares a few DIY treasures (Alexander Wang sock garters, anyone?). As Jazzi puts it, her mission is to “let everyone know that the fashion industry can be tackled without a trust fund”. Can I get an amen, sister?

Sally McGraw of Already Pretty
Can one personal stylist change the way women view their bodies, and themselves? Sally McGraw thinks so. The lovely McGraw elevates her passion for chic clothing with an outspoken commitment to body acceptance. Blog posts like “What IS Flattering?” provide commonsense insights into topics that have frustrated shoppers since the dawn of time. And her weekly contests and giveaways — which range from cotton scarves to summer frocks to hefty gift cards — are not to be missed.

“Miss” James Kicinski of Bleubird Vintage
Chic baby mama. Vinyl record collector. Frilly knicker designer. Miss James is a retro inspiration — and a drop-dead gorgeous one, at that. In addition to writing about her latest Etsy obsessions and selling dreamy vintage-inspired collections through her online shop, James also blogs over at N.E.E.T. magazine. Best of luck as she stylishly feathers the nest for her new baby (due in July). What a busy little bird!

*This post was written by Alexandra Franzen for the CRAVE company:

ALEXANDRA FRANZEN is a writer + editor + organization freak. She designs rockstar resumes, leads personal branding jam sessions, writes marketing copy and teaches wallflowers how to hustle like a gangsta’. You can find her blogging up a storm at Unicorns for Socialism and tweeting away @alex_franzen.

Girls Night Out!

July 28, 2010 by Jenny P. | Comments (0)

All of us need a night once in a while to strap on some high heels and hit the town with the girlfriends. And what a better city to do it in then our sweet city of Chicago! From fabulous places for food to great places for drinks afterwards, we’ve found places we CRAVE to go for a fabulous time with the gals.

Honey
Make sure to try this oh-so-CRAVEable restaurant on your next girls night out. Elizabeth Janus started this full-service restaurant that has a very bright and modern feel. You”ll find bakery treats made from scratch by talented in-house bakers, fair-trade organic coffee roasted locally and entrees made from the freshest ingredients, all local and organic whenever possible.

The Meatloaf Bakery
To give your girls night out started in a fun and creative way try this savory and delicious place. Its not a place that serves just ordinary meatloaf! This one-of-a-kind shop started by Cynthia Kallile features ready-to-go meatloaf cupcakes, meatloaf pastries, and exclusive bite-size Loafies. The eight scrumptious recipes will be a unique and special dinner for you and your friends.

Tastes of Vino
This wine shop, wine bar, and bistro offers a unique, inexpensive wine and food concept. It has a stylish and fun atmosphere that is great for gathering with friends and socializing. Tastes of Vino not only has delicious food but fabulous wine. With three different locations all located a mere 30 minutes from downtown Chicago, its dining thats fun and convenient!

Have Great Help While Shopping!

July 21, 2010 by Jenny P. | Comments (0)

Let’s face it we all have had those days when we roll out of bed and find nothing in our closets to wear. Its always helpful then, to have some guidance as to what stores to shop at and some stylist advice. We at CRAVE know these days well, and have decided to scour Chicago in search of some women who can help us!

You Just Shop
Started by Nancy Harris, You Just Shop is Chicago’s premier limo-driven, custom shopping excursion company. Its designed to deliver you and your friends to the doorsteps of the city’s best boutiques. They have scoured Chicago to find hidden gems so your outing will feel like a treasure hunt. Its an excursion that would be fun to go on with the gal pals, and find some really great shopping spots hidden in our city!

Le Dress
When trying to find the right outfit for an evening out, we sometimes throw in the towel because we try on too many things that don’t fit right. At Le Dress, they offer customers special services to help with this problem. From complimentary wardrobe stying to an in-house seamstress and stylist kit-to-go; these women have wonderful services available in order for you to find the perfect dress for your body. To find out more about them click here.

Connections Galore!

July 14, 2010 by Jenny P. | Comments (0)

When running a business (or just running your life), you are constantly making new connections. Whether you are heading up an event, composing a website or publicizing your blog- you are building up your network of people you need to know. We are constantly CRAVEing assistance from professionals that can give us good advice and help us grow. We have scoured Chicago and found some women owned businesses that will do the trick!

Two K Productions
These ladies know the complete in’s and out’s of fashion event planning. Two K Productions specialize in upscale events for designers, retailers, restaurants, and charitable organizations. Kristen Frederick and Kristy Brezinsky are former models and draw from their experiences on and off the runway to deliver unforgettable fashion based events.

Tonya Mann
As a former beauty editor and makeup artist Tonya Mann is in the business of beauty. Whether working with international beauty companies to help launch their latest products and brands dishing on her beauty tipsy blog; or designing fabulous couture cocktail aprons and one-of-a-kind jewelry, her passion for helping women look and feel their best is evident in everything she does.

SkyEvents
Offering personalized event planning services. SkyEvents is a distinctive comapny with a fresh, vibrant approach. Believing that class and style are unique to each individual, Mila Sky, the founder, has a passion for exceptional client service. From weddings to galas to private parties, the goal at SkyEvents is to bring each client’s unique vision to life, while staying true to both their taste and their budget.

Interview with Kayme Pumphrey

July 2, 2010 by Jenny P. | Comments (0)

Having to find a nanny or sitter for your children is an extremely important decision. They become intimately involved with your family, which means they need to be loving, considerate, and trustworthy. Kayme Pumphrey has worked with children throughout her life and seen the importance of choosing the right sitter. That is why she created K. Grace Childcare. A company that is committed to providing qualified and professional childcare referrals based on the unique needs of families. We caught up with this successful momma and asked her a few questions we were CRAVEing to know.

What is it about K. Grace Childcare that you love the most?
That is a tough question!  There are so many things that I love and am proud of.  If I had to choose one thing, I would say that I love the peace of mind and happiness that we have brought our past and current clients.  We get testimonials daily and I can’t even convey the joy they bring me.  We have clients who refuse to move out of the city so that they continue to have access to our services, and clients who beg us to service suburbs and other cities when they have to move.  I know as a parent how hard it is to trust others to care for your children; k grace has and continues to ensure that we provide exceptional customer service, constant attention to detail, quality childcare, and most importantly, sitters who are properly screened.

What is the most important thing about yourself that you’ve learned through running your business?
It may be clichĂ©, but the most important thing that I have learned about myself through running the business is that I can’t do everything.  There are days when I feel like I can’t do anything, but I have come to know that the most important thing is to focus on the big picture.

When did you first know you wanted to work with children?
Well, I didn’t really make a decision about working with children; as the oldest of 9, it just happened!  I helped care for my siblings and started babysitting at a very young age.  I worked in countless childcare roles, from daycare centers, to preschools and primary classrooms, and finally as a nanny after moving to Chicago in 2000.  I saw firsthand how nanny agencies were run and knew there had to be a better option.  I also saw the great need for part-time help and started k grace with the intention of providing high quality in-home childcare for both full and part-time needs.

What is the best piece of advice you could give about starting a business?
It would vary based on the day, but I would tell any potential entrepreneur that time and energy are paramount for a successful business.  I worked 24 hours a day, 7 days a week when I started the business 8 years ago, and although having a wonderful staff has allowed for some reprieve, the business still consumes my life.

Sweet Summer Treats!

June 30, 2010 by Jenny P. | Comments (0)

The city is beautiful this summer! Which leaves no need for excuses when going and grabbing some delicious treats to make your day that much sweeter. We’ve searched Chicago and found some perfect goodies for to satisfy your sweet tooth. You’re taste buds will CRAVE these tasty treats and have you running to the shop nearest you!

Sarah’s Pastries & Candies
Sweet and delicious these goodies will leave you in perfect bliss. Sarah Levy, owner and the one who makes the magic happen, offers all types of goodies ranging from pastries and tarts to cupcakes and gelato. With so many options and flavors, its impossible for your taste buds to be disappointed. To see all the delectable treats, look on her website here.

Starfruit
Who ever said you needed to satisfy your sweet tooth with more sugar? Julie Smolyansky, owner of Starfruit, proves that wrong! Their frozen kefir puts regular fro-yo to shame. There’s no shame or regret after eating these healthy and delicious treats. They are perfect on a warm sunny day to refresh and revive you. Check out more about them here!

Candyality
For all us who do need that sugar fix, this is the perfect spot to satisfy our CRAVEings! Derived from the concept of associating candy with your personality, Terese McDonald owner of Candyality, offers highly indulgent, quirky, and unique sweets that will have both lasting and universal appeal. With so many to choose from, everyone will find something delicious! Click here to find out more!

Interview with Lara Miller

June 25, 2010 by Jenny P. | Comments (0)

Lara Miller is a woman of true beauty and talent, which resonates within herself and within the clothes she designs. Her designs are influenced mostly by architectural and cultural landscape. The playful geometry of the garments created connects the the personalities of the women who wear them. We caught up with this busy woman to ask her a few questions we were CRAVEing to know the answers to.

What is it about Lara Miller Designs that you love the most?
I love so many things about my company! I love that everything I make is made in my hometown, Chicago. I love that I support my local ecomomy by paying fair wages. I love the amazing community that I have been so lucky to create through my business. I love that everything I create and the way that I run my business acknowledges the responsibility I feel we all have to protecting and respecting our enviroment. I love getting to meet my customers and playing dress up with them. I love that people know that “eco” doesn’t have to be unflattering, that organic cotton is luxurious, and that hemp in fact is not itchy. I especially love that almost all of my pieces are designed to “wear it your wayTM” meaning they can be flipped, wrapped, and reversed to have multiple garments at once.

What is the most important thing about yourself that you’ve learned through running your business?
Wow, there’s a lot that I can say to answer this question as well. I have learned so much about myself since beginning my company 5 years ago. I think the most important thing that I have learned is that I am easily excited which leads to easily exciting others, and that is a ton of fun! Daniel Burnham’s quote sums up everything I have learned about myself to a t.”Make no little plans. They have no magic to stir men’s blood and probably themselves will not be realized. Make big plans. Aim high in hope and work. Remembering that a noble, logical diagram once recorded will not die”

When did you first know you wanted to be a designer?
According to my father, the first time he let choose what I wanted to wear, which I guess was around 1? My first memory was in high school, taking a fashion and interior design elective. Before that, despite working for an infamous denim store in Chicago, I wanted to be in neuro research. The brain still fascinates me.

What is currently your most popular design?
Hand-loomed Sweaters – Any of the flips, especially the Elizabeth Flip. Wovens – The Donna Dress.

What is the best piece of advice you could give about starting a business?
Stay true to yourself and your vision, but make sure that aligns with your target market. Know your market inside and out. Know them like you know yourself. And be ready to eat, sleep, live your business – and have fun doing it! If it’s not fun then it isn’t worth it. If it’s not fun for you, it won’t be fun for your customers. Be ready to be flexible and make the changes that you need to make to keep it fun!

Keeping that Bikini Body all Summer Long!

June 23, 2010 by Jenny P. | Comments (2)

We’ve made it, summer is finally here! With the warm weather comes the scary shedding of our layers. But, not to worry! We at CRAVE have found some fabulous trainers that will keep your body looking its best all through the rest of the summer! With their help, your biggest worry will soon be which bikini to wear and accessorize, rather than which coverup will look the least frumpy.

The Dailey Method Chicago
This studio has the exercises you need to look your best. They focus on a unique combination of ballet barre work, core conditioning, stretching, and orthopedic exercises. They promise to help strengthen, tone, and lengthen your entire body. What more could you ask for?! Their methods are effective, addictive and empowering. To see how you can become involved in their classes check out their website.

One Mind Body & Being
This studio’s goal is to motivate clients to develop and maintain an overall sense of wellness. They accommodate a variety of clientele from all levels of fitness. Their sessions include Pilates, yoga, body-sculpting mat classes, boot camp, and rope burn. It is a safe haven of exercise and physical wellness and therapy. Your body will be thanking you for their help! To see more about them click here.

Gray Wellness
Fitness coach Victoria D. Gray is a certified athletic trainer, strength and conditioning coach, kettlebell instructor, and post-rehabilitation specialist. Skilled at working with athletes,dancers, and fitness enthusiasts of all levels for over ten years, we believe this woman can get anyone into shape! She believes dedication and determination are the perfect ingredients in accomplishing any goal. For more information check out her website here.

Harmony Mind Body Fitness
This studio offers more than just an opportunity to get back in shape. They encourage a more meaningful connection between mind and body in exercise. Offering sessions in Pilates, Gyrotonic, and Gyrokinesis; these forms of exercise are changing the way people work out. With these sessions you will see that fun exercise really does exist! They are exercises beneficial for all ages and body types. To see more about them and their classes click here.

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