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Athletes Head North – Best of Chicago Olympians

February 3, 2010 by Lindsey | Comments (1)

Top Tips from CRAVEchat: The Challenge of Authenticity

January 30, 2010 by Lindsey | Comments (1)

We kicked off this year’s first CRAVE Chat asking women to reflect inwards and find their true authentic self, both personally and professionally. Twenty women entrepreneurs were treated to two hours with Fredda at Ruby Room on January 20th. In case you missed the chat or want a refresher to jump start your journey towards building a more fabulous you, the following tips should put you on the right path.

The Four Challenges Entrepreneurs Face

Re-Evaluate Your Body and Energy Life needs balance. When your life is in alignment, your business is too. You cannot be powerful in both your life and in work unless you’re strong physically and emotionally. Making a few small changes in one aspect can drastically affect the other. There’s no difference between working and not working, you should always be working! Whether your dealing with a new client, taking guitar lessons or doing laundry, you’re always working at something. If you work out and eat healthy your body has more energy to devote to everything, which can only lead to success.

You Can’t Be Everything To Everybody Focus. Get clear. Both you and your brand have to be clear! Most of us are guilty of taking on more than we can chew. Spreading yourself too thin only gets in the way of your business reaching its full potential. Ask yourself, “What do you want your business to be?” “Is there something about my job I hate that I can outsource to free up some of my day?” Mapping out steps to meet your goals will leave you more time to manage your personal life.

The Difference Between Business and Emotion One of the biggest challenges we women face is accepting that business isn’t personal. The definition of business is ‘commerce for money’, not how you feel at the moment. You don’t have to give discounts to every family friend/cousin just because times are tough and you feel bad. You’re not responsible for other people’s lives. Maybe you’re carrying extra staff members on the payroll that you should let-go, but don’t because they’re a nice person. Stop cheating yourself out of money! You can like someone all you want, but if they’re hurting your business they need to go. When you learn to separate business and emotion every decision becomes easier.

Your Personal Style Relates To Your Business You’re a walking billboard for your business. The way you dress and the type of business you own should be aesthetically similar. If you’re not comfortable in your job uniform, then you’re not in the right job. There should be some semblance of a dress code in your business, and everyone should look good to properly represent your business. Dressing sloppy reflects poorly on both you and your business, so be cautious. Make sure your outer appearance makes sense for your line of work.

Our next CRAVEchat: Making Financial Decisions is scheduled for Wednesday, February 10th. RSVP here to join us and receive valuable financial advice {just in time for Tax Time!} while networking with other savvy business women.

Best of Chicago’s Boutique {After Holiday} Designer Bargains

January 6, 2010 by Lindsey | Comments (1)

The holiday season may be over, but the season of sales has just begun. Here are some of the most CRAVE-worthy stores to get great deals on designer duds.

Adele Dallas Orr
If you aspire to look classy and modern, Adele Dallas Orr Pret A Porter is the perfect place for you. This effortlessly fabulous boutique is filled with clothing in bold colors, exotic prints, silky fabrics and exquisite jewelry. Currently, there’s a 50% off sale going on select clothing and scarves. Most pieces from her collection can be worn year-round, so make sure to stop by and pick-up a few timeless pieces.

Mulberry and Me
For must-have basics and some oh-so-special ones, look no further than Wicker Park’s Mulberry and Me. The friendly, inviting atmosphere makes it a fun place to browse the racks and score the ultimate fashion finds. Hurry over and scoop up loads of ultra-luxe cashmere and chunky knits, while they’re still 50% off.

Tangerine
From established designers to local up-and-comers, Tangerine has something to suit every fashionista’s needs. This Bucktown gem is the ideal spot to find “look-at-me” separates and fashion-forward attire. Right now the boutique is having a 30-50% off sale. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for even more markdowns this weekend.

Chicago’s Best Places to Experience the Holidays

December 23, 2009 by Lindsey | Comments (0)

During the holidays, money is always a little bit tight, but just because you’re a bit short on cash doesn’t mean you can’t partake in all the holiday fun that Chicago has to offer. Here are some of the CRAVE ladies’ favorite ways to get in the holiday spirit, without breaking the bank.

Christkindlemarket Festival From delicious German food to handmade Christmas ornaments, Chicago’s Christkindlmarket Festival brings the charm of Germany to this midwestern metropolis. The market is directly in front of the Daley Plaza, making it the perfect pit stop during your holiday festivities. Enjoy the live music while you mingle with vendors and find some special gifts for the people you love.

Lincoln Park Zoo Lights Make sure to swing by the Lincoln Park Zoo Lights before it disappears on January 3rd. The air is filled with Christmas tunes, the smell of popcorn and the zoo is completely illuminated with brightly colored lights. Watch ice sculptors create masterpieces, take a photo with Santa Claus or just check out the animals. Everything is both fun and free.

Millennium Park Round-up a group of gal pals or your significant other and head on down to the Loop. Throw on a pair of skates and take a few laps around Millennium Park’s outdoor ice rink. It’s the perfect spot to soak in the city’s skyscrapers and Michigan Avenue’s splendor. The best part is it’s free if you have your own skates! Make sure to bring your camera so you can capture the moment.

Navy Pier’s Winter WonderFest Sometimes it’s fun to be a tourist, especially during the holiday season. With over 750,000 lights, 25,000 ornaments and over 1oo fully decorated trees, Navy Pier’s Winter WonderFest is the ideal spot to savor the last few days of December. Take a stroll down the pier or indulge in the restaurants and shopping.

‘Tis the season for holiday parties…Best of Chicago’s Places to Find Holiday Attire

December 16, 2009 by Lindsey | Comments (0)

It’s that time of year when our calendars are filled with events, parties and charity functions… which leaves us with the burning question: What should I wear? We scoured the city and suburbs for the ultimate women-owned boutiques with most CRAVE worthy clothing, and here the ones sure to make you look ulta-stylish at your next soiree!

Gavin Reside on the Northside? Check out Gavin, Evanston’s famous fashion-foward boutique. To look instantly stylish pair one of Nicole Miller’s feminine cocktail dresses with black ankle boots and a boyfriend blazer. If you’re more of a pants girl, try layering this season’s coveted Torn sequin vest with a turtleneck and trousers for a comfortably glam evening ensemble.

Le Dress If you’re in the market for the perfect dress, look no further than Wicker Park’s Le Dress, Chicago’s premier dress-only boutique. Big on top? Try a fire engine red cap-sleeve dress by Shoshanna. Looking for something you can wear during the day, and spruce up at night? Try a classic black dress with ruffles paired with a blazer for daytime. At night, throw on some funky tights, bright colored shoes and some lipstick and you’re ready to party!

Totem Head on out to the ‘burbs and visit Totem, a hip boutique that carries everything from established designers like Susana Monaco to up-and-coming local labels like SERPICO. Want to make a statement at your next party? Slip into an electric pink Amora ruffled shift dress by Diane Von Furstenburg. For a modern take on menswear, throw on Rag and Bone’s sexy tuxedo wrap dress, add the perfect pair of heels and good to go.

Tribeca If you’re obsessed over hip clothes and love to layer, then look no further than the West Loop’s Tribeca. Stand out in a sea of black with a Blue Tassel silk charmeuse tunic top paired with some funky jewelry or a sassy purple belted dress by Liquid. Add even more pizazz to your look by throwing on one of their faux leather bomber jackets paired with an exotic printed infinity scarf! So city chic!

Vive La Femme For full-figured fashion, make sure to visit Bucktown’s own Vive La Femme. Flaunt your curves in a foxy fitted Maggie London dress or a black silk IGIGI short sleeve cocktail shift. If you’re more of separates person, try a pair of black slacks with an elegant Kionna knit top with jewelry detailing or a Redskew corduroy skirt paired with a crisp white button-down shirt. Spice up all the looks with some of their fabulous costume jewelry.

Novelty Nouveau: Best of Chicago Area Novelty Shops

December 9, 2009 by Lindsey | Comments (1)

As the holiday season approaches, gift giving adds a bit of extra stress to all of our lives. What’s a good gift for ____? How much money should I spend? Is a gift-card too impersonal? You get the idea. Instead of just grabbing any old thing from a department store, why not try shopping at some of Chicago’s coolest novelty shops? The variety of items offered at these local gems, will not only make shopping easier, but guarantees a uniquely fabulous gift! Here are some of CRAVE’s favorites.

Bramble Know any outdoor enthusiasts or nature-motif lovers? If so, stop by Oak Park’s Bramble for an eclectic mix of nature-inspired gifts and home goods. This treasure trove features everything from French table linens and Japanese ceramic tiles to wearable accessories like scarves and jewelry. It’s the perfect place to buy someone (or yourself) something to bring the garden indoors.

Fly Bird For all things quirky and kitsch, head on out to Fly Bird, Oak Park’s most modern gift shop. From the humorous Ugly Dolls to soy Skeem Candles (the gorgeous holder can be re-used as a drinking glass after the candle has burned out), everything in the this gift shop is meant to peak your curiosities and leave you smiling.

Olive Owl Organics Need something for your eco-friendly friend? Olive Owl in Oak Park offers special natural and organic items that are unique to their store! These products are handmade personally for you and include body care, face scrubs, soaps, lip balms and more! Plan for an extended visit as you’ll also find plenty of home decor, pet goodies, baby items and totes to droll over as well!

Randoons Wearables and Whatnots Get your city style in the burbs! Located in Winnetka, Randoons is a couture cafe inspired by all things both sweet & funky. A walk throughout the cafe will find you admiring everything from fab jeans to luscious soaps, a true treat! There truly is a special gift around every corner…

Winter Skin Woes: Best of Winter Skincare Tips

December 3, 2009 by Lindsey | Comments (2)

Winter is traumatic for skin, and here in Chicago it’s even worse! The harsh winds not only set chills down your spine but crack, peel and irritate your skin. We at CRAVE are firm believers in the importance of skin-care and we’ve asked some top women-owned spa’s how to combat the cold and make your skin look fierce! Here’s what they had to say…

Chocolate for Your Body Spa – Head on over to Pilsen’s Chocolate For Your Body Spa to replenish your skin with a little chocolate. Their tip: Add a few drops of rose, avocado or lavender oil to your moisturizer; they help fight aging, help even your skin tone and nourish the outer layer of skin. For more intense skin-care, indulge yourself in their Purifying Rose Body Wrap, Relaxing Rose Body Massage or Rose Facial.

Colette Salon and Spa – Take a break from your Magnificent Mile holiday shopping spree and stop by Gold Coast’s Colette Salon and Spa. Their tip: Be sure to switch-up your skin-care routine, instead of lotion use a cream-based moisturizer. They recommend using Guinot’s Moisturizing Care Package. If you want to take moisture one-step further, treat yourself to one of their relaxing specialty hydrating facials.

Kaya Day Spa – Wander on over to the West Loop’s Kaya Day Spa for the ultimate skin rejuvenation. Their tip: Exfoliate your skin and keep hydrated. Sloughing off the dead skin will give your skin a healthy, radiant glow. To let your skin breath try the O2 Experience, which nourishes your skin with oxygen while 87 different vitamins penetrate your skin. If you want moisturize your entire body, try their Hot Oil Infusion Treatment.

Each of the spa owners were pretty unanimous on a few things. In order to protect your skin, you must…

1. Slather on sunscreen, apply a broad-spectrum to your face and hands.
2. Get some sleep! If you don’t, oxygen will leave your body which causes it to dry out.
3. And most importantly, drink more water!

Pick Your Pumpkin : Best of Chicago’s Pumpkin Treats

November 19, 2009 by Lindsey | Comments (0)

‘Tis the season for all things pumpkin. When the weather starts to change so do our cravings, and one of the most satisfying fall flavors starts in the pumpkin patch. From pumpkin focused entrees to pumpkin-laced dessert, here are some of the CRAVE Chicago suggested places to get your favorite flavor fix.

Chilam Balam – Grab some girlfriends and head on over to Chilam Balam, a Mexican restaurant, which focuses on sharing plates and group dining. Make sure to save room for dessert. Their sinfully delicious Pumpkin Tres Leches Cake is topped with toasted pumpkin seeds and a dainty scoop of ice cream. Yummy!

Honey – For a taste of fall, head on out to the Glen Ellyn ‘Burbs and try Honey’s Pumpkin Tea Bread. If you’re more of a cupcake gal, be sure not to miss their Pumpkin Cupcakes slathered with cinnamon cream cheese frosting. There’s nothing like sugary goodness to beat those impending winter blues!

Mana Food Bar – Wander over to Wicker Park’s Mana Food Bar for the latest in vegetarian and vegan cuisine. Get your pumpkin fix with the Tomato Pumpkin Ravioli, which is smothered in a decadent sage cream sauce. The perfect autumn-inspired entree!

NAHA – Downtown dwellers should make sure to stop by NAHA, a restaurant famous for everything from their burgers topped with manchego cheese and heirloom tomatoes to corn polenta sprinkled with truffles and parsley root. After you indulge in an entree, make sure to finish it off with a a fall favorite called the Autumn Sundae: pumpkin ice cream topped with seasonal berries.

Nightwood – If you find yourself in the Pilsen area, be sure to check out Nightwood. What could be a more perfect end to a savory meal than a scoop (or two) of their seasonal pumpkin spiced gelato? Nothing. The cold texture of the gelato melts with the warm spiced pumpkin flavor to create a satisfying sweet treat.

Communicate Creatively : Best of Thank-You Cards

November 12, 2009 by Lindsey | Comments (3)

In a world where convenience is key and everything is done via the internet, paper seems to be disappearing faster than you can say Google. However, there’s a resurgence of people who want to keep personality in communication. Handwritten thank-you notes are on the rise. Thank goodness! Here are CRAVE’s favorite places to help keep your paper personal.

Anjenu From the electric bamboo-green walls to the funky handmade greeting cards, everything about Anjenu screams fun. This Wicker Park gem is known for their vibrant hued paper and custom stationery. Like being eco-chic? Invitations can be pressed in soy ink and their handmade paper is embedded with sweet basil seeds, so the recipient can grow their own garden.

Elizabeth Grace Are you a designer label junkie? Swing by Lincoln Park’s Elizabeth Grace for high-end stationery from designers such as Kate Spade and Crane & Co. and wedding invitations by Vera Wang! Known for impeccable taste and design savvy, this paper palace will leave nothing to be desired. So Chicago chic!

Kee2Creativity Are you more of an online shopper? If so, try Kee2Creativity for all of your personalized paper needs. Along with the convenience factor, this internet boutique boasts a signature line of cheeky stationary and modern invitations. Want something extremely unique? They’ve done everything from credit card shaped invites for a Mall Madness themed party to luggage tag save the dates for a destination wedding!

Noteworthy Stop by Noteworthy, a stationery store known for custom cards, invitations, and even personalized stamps and labels. From funky bold prints to classically chic patterns, there’s something to meet every customer’s idea of perfection. If you tend to be a procrastinator, don’t worry, they print a number of in-house items, which can be ready in two business days!

Sweet Papier If you’re looking for fresh baked paper goodies, check out Naperville’s Sweet Papier. This paper kitchen cooks up invitations for baby showers, weddings and parties using environmentally-friendly papers and yummy custom colors, like papaya, poppy and strawberry. Their designs are hand-illustrated, cut and assembled on-site, and feature european-style envelopes and custom embellishments.

Pamper, Protect and Purify: Best of Facials

November 4, 2009 by Lindsey | Comments (2)

Your face. It’s one thing that sets you apart from everyone else on earth, which is why you need to keep it looking fresh and fabulous. Check out some of the CRAVE ladies favorite spots for a bit of face time.

Aniko Salon and Day Spa

This South Loop gem is the ultimate place for pampering yourself. Aniko Salon and Day Spa offers a huge variety of facials. Some favs include the Oxygenation Facial, which uses oxygen molecules to lift ingredients from the skin to reveal a healthy glow. Looking for something to combat even the most stubborn skin? Try the Pumice Peel Manual Microdermabrasion, it’s perfect for resurfacing and retexturizing the skin.

Chocolate For Your Body

Take a trip down to Pilsen and indulge in the sweetest facial in the city. Chocolate For Your Body’s Chocolate Decadence Signature Facial combines rich organic chocolate (yum!) with pomegranates to remove antioxidants from your skin and reverse the aging process. Is your sensitive skin making you fearful of facial treatments? Try the Rosacea Rescue Facial, which is designed for easily irritated skin. It reduces inflammation and uses herbal infusions to leave your skin fresh, clear and calm.

Colette Salon and Spa

Nestled in the heart of the Gold Coast, just steps away from Michigan Ave, Colette Salon and Spa offers a perfect end to a hard day of work or shopping trip. Spent a bit too much time in the sun sans SPF? Start reversing sun damage and discoloration with the Glycolic Lactic Facial, it refines pores and fades discoloration, while reducing wrinkles. Feeling fancy? Indulge in the Caviar Facial, which uses a rich mask and oils to balance, firm and restore elasticity to rejuvenate your complexion.

Genacelli Salon and Day Spa

Smack dab on the border that divides Lakeview and Lincoln Park, this north-side boutique combines modern methods with luxury products, like Repechage, to create a one-of-a-kind pampering experience. Popular skin treatments, such as the Facial Restore, give the skin a boost using steam, extractions and exfoliation, while simultaneously receiving a relaxing neck massage. Don’t have time for a full-on facial? Genacelli Salon and Day Spa features a quick fix, the Facial Refresh, which will have you out the door in no time, looking fresh and fabulous!

Kaya Day Spa

Borrowing its name from a unique Japanese tree characterized by its strength and resistance to environmental stress, Kaya Day Spa focuses on restoring balance and energy to the mind body and soul. This West Loop retreat offers facials like the Ultraluxe Facial, which incorporates various masks and Sonya Dakar Hydrating ProPeel to reveal younger, fresher looking skin. If your in need of a boost, try the Biodynamic Beauty Facial, which uses ingredients like Beech Tree Bud and Blue Algae. Along with skin brightening, this treatment improves tone and clarity.

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