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Last chance to get tickets to tomorrow’s Winter Wonderland CRAVEparty

Tuesday, December 8th, 2009


Registration closes 12/9 at 10AM!
CRAVE Chicago Winter Wonderland Party WHAT: Join your girlfriends for a captivating evening of opulence and magical events! WHEN: Wednesday, December 9th, 7-10pm WHERE: The Historic Stan Mansion at 2408 N Kedzie in Chicago – Click here for directions. BUY TICKETS {Must be 21 and over to attend. Ticket non-transferable.} {Tickets will NOT be sold at the door; please purchase online.} With one ticket, you are treated to: 2 premium cocktails during the event 3 fashion shows 1 Second City act 2 dance performances cupcakes & goodies by Luscious Layers & Chocolate Gourmet music by Toast & Jam DJ Company fabulous shopping with local businesses (see the CRAVE website to find out who’s in!) a chance to win many amazing raffle prizes for restaurants, clothing and more; all valued over $50 FREE PARKING 1 after-party cocktail at Jbar All registered guests of the Winter Wonderland CRAVEparty are invited to join us at the after-party hosted by Jbar where you will be treated to a complimentary CRAVE cocktail and a special performance by KeysNKrates! Baby, it’s cold outside! Join the Winter Wonderland CRAVEparty on December 9th to find your perfect holiday ensemble from one of Chicago’s most fabulous boutiques, all of which will be under one roof! No need to travel from boutique-to-boutique, we have them all here! A CRAVEparty is an exclusive, festive, glam-gal gathering of fun, entertainment, personal pampering, and sippin’ and noshin’ on great food. FASHION & SIPS Take advantage of the exclusive opportunity to view the season’s chicest fashions from Chicagoland’s favorite boutiques, while enjoying gratis treats & sips! SPA & SOOTHE Indulge in complimentary mini-spa services to soothe your holiday-time stresses! GIFTS GALORE Don’t be greedy! Shop for some fabulous gifts for those special people in your life! AND MORE… Enjoy yourself by sipping something delicious, getting a mini-manicure courtesy of Aniko Salon & Spa, and shopping for your glamorous holidaytime ensemble, all while viewing a fab fashion show and other entertaining acts, including a dance performance by Intrigue and a musical performance by Backbeat Music Instruction. Our Hostesses with the Mostess are Nancy Loo and Felicia Joy! Be dazzled by the most gorgeous jewelry this city’s designers have to offer. Dance to tunes via Toast & Jam while sipping sparkling beverages from Solixir and Dry Soda. Bring your girlfriends to this one-of-a-kind event and we’ll see you off in high spirits… with a great goody bag in tow! Discover yourself with intuitive card readings by Nourhy. Nosh on amazing treats, including Chocolate Gourmet’s Chocolate Gourmet‘s delish cookies! Be enthralled by the endless holiday gift options for kids, pets, and everyone else on your list! Indulge in intuitive Toe Readings offered by Rhanda; an Indian tradition for emotional healing. Enter in one of many great raffles throughout the night, including gift certificates to some of our fave local restaurants, and a chance to win a tour and tasting for 10 at The Lynfred Winery!	SPONSORS
Let’s see how many tweets we can create; please use the hashtag #craveparty when tweeting about this event. Thank you!

Tags: christmas, fashion, friends, fun, gifts, girlfriends, holiday, party, shopping, treats
Posted in Abode, Adorn, Business, Connect, Details, Enhance, Interviews, Moms, Pets, Sip / Savor, Style, Travel | No Comments »

CRAVE Chicago Winter Wonderland Shopping Party

Wednesday, December 2nd, 2009

Indulge Your “Holiday Cravings” This Season With
CRAVE Chicagoʼs Winter Wonderland Shopping Party

CRAVE Chicago Announces the “Winter Wonderland CRAVEparty”: A Shopping Event Supporting Local Female-owned Businesses and Offering Irresistible Goods and Exciting Entertainment.

CRAVE Chicago announces the “Winter Wonderland CRAVEparty” – a holiday shopping party made up of local female-owned boutiques, designers, and businesses in Chicago, taking place on December 9th (7-10pm) at the fabulous, historic Stan Mansion (2408 North Kedzie). A CRAVEparty is an exclusive, festive, glam-gal gathering for fun, entertainment, personal pampering, sippinʼ and noshinʼ on great food.

Hosted by Nancy Loo and Felicia Joy, amplified by fresh tunes via Toast & Jam DJs and enhanced with amazing raffles throughout the night, the Winter Wonderland CRAVEparty will offer Chicagolandʼs ladies and gents (those who dare) the perfect opportunity to enjoy themselves before the hectic holiday season and complete their holiday shopping list in one evening & location. “Winter Wonderland” will offer stylish vendor booths brimming with Chicagoʼs very own in the latest and greatest clothing, jewelry, handbags, girly gifts, delicious treats, fun items for you pets, home decor and so much more – not to mention a fashion show, mini-manicures by Aniko Salon & Spa and enchanting dance performances!

“2009 has been an incredible and exhilarating year for CRAVE Chicago: marking the debut of the CRAVE Chicago guide and my influence on the company. Iʼm thrilled to be working with some of the top local female- owned businesses of Chicago, while creating an unforgettable experience for consumers. The Winter Wonderland CRAVEparty is certainly the big-bang event of the season and marks the end of a marvelous year for CRAVE Chicago. That said, stay tuned to learn about our exciting line-up of events for 2010,” says Michele Kravetz, CRAVE Chicago Coordinator.

Tickets are available for $35 at thecravecompany.com/chicago and will not be sold at the door. First 300 tickets purchased will receive two X-Rated Fusion Liqueur cocktail tickets and a complimentary goody bag brimming with fabulousness! All ticket holders are invited to join us for an after-party at JBar, where we will be treated to a complimentary cocktail and music by KeysnKrates!

Stay tuned to our website for more information and a complete list of participants.

Tags: chicago, enjoy, event, fun, gifts, girlfriends, shopping, spa
Posted in Abode, Adorn, Connect, Details, Enhance, Moms, Pets, Sip / Savor, Style, Travel | 4 Comments »

@WorkDesign: Interview with Julia

Friday, November 27th, 2009

Style with purpose. This does sum-up the amazing selection of items found inside @WorkDesign, located in Forest Park. @WorkDesign offers workspace furnishings, products and supplies for the home. A one-stop resource for people who want to seamlessly integrate their work and life, and who believe that great design is a lifestyle essential. Julia Archer, owner of @WorkDesign, provides all of the necessary tools to beautifully assist in creating environments that positively impact people’s lives. Her eye for effortless style and impeccable design are what make this store something special, and her positive nature is what keep her clients coming back for more; though we must mention most of the items carried in the store are exclusive to @WorkDesign… another testament to how Julia creates an opportunity for your space to be special. Let’s learn a bit more about Julia and where she derives her inspiration…

People may be surprised to know…
That we offer not just new lines of furnishings but provide lifestyle products such a coats made of Tyvek, felt slippers. We also bring in vintage product solutions to bring an eclectic style to our offering.

Who is your role model or mentor?
Store owners such as Larry at Scout and Robin Richman because of their uncompromised taste and point of view.

How do you spend your free time?
Flea Markets and spending time with my husband.

What is your indulgence?
Cappuccinos and the New York Times

…for all of you city-dwellers reading this post, get out and find new hidden gems like @WorkDesign! Not all great things are found within the city-limits; sometimes you need to take yourself on a little adventure… even just 15 minutes west.

Follow Julia on Twitter

Tags: @, decor, furniture, home, julia, office, organize, shop, shopping, store
Posted in Abode, Business, Connect, Details, Style, Travel | No Comments »

The CRAVE Chicago Guide has arrived!

Monday, November 23rd, 2009

The long-awaited CRAVE Chicago guide has arrived!

The CRAVE Chicago guide is a savvy, quality-of-lifestyle book devoted entirely to the best local businesses, owned by women. Featuring over 100 women you need to know, CRAVE Chicago directs you to top boutiques, spas, cafes, stylists, fitness studios, and more, and will introduce you to the inspired, dedicated women behind these exceptional enterprises. At these locales, creativity, quality, innovation, and customer service are paramount. Not only is CRAVE Chicago an intelligent guidebook for those wanting to know what’s happening throughout town, it’s a directory for those who recognize, and value the contributions that spirited businesswomen make to our city.

Pick up your guide at any of these featured retailers, at Barnes & Noble or on Amazon.com.

Tags: book, chicago, guide, shopping
Posted in Abode, Adorn, Business, Connect, Details, Enhance, Interviews, Moms, Pets, Sip / Savor, Style, Travel | 3 Comments »

Black Friday Specials for CRAVE Chicago Blog Readers

Monday, November 23rd, 2009

Can you believe that Thanksgiving is right around the corner?! While each of us is dreaming of indulging in a delicious feast, thousands of people are also preparing to storm the streets on Black Friday for holiday deals. We want to be sure you find your treasures at the best prices! Typically, to get the absolute best deal, you have to know someone or have the inside scoop… Consider CRAVE that connection!

The following businesses are already offering amazing deals for Black Friday and have decided to offer a special CRAVE deal only for you! Just mention CRAVE and be exclusively treated to…

	@WorkDesign atworkdesign.com An extra 10% off all purchases
	Aniko Salon and Spa anikosalonspa.com Buy 1 get 1/2 OFF one service valued over $60; Buy $100 Gift Certificate for only $50 or $50 Gift Certificate for only for $25; Fusion Manicure & Pedicure Combo for $50 , 45min Massage for $50 and 45min Mini-Spa Facial for $50 (First time guests only)
	Baubo’s Garden baubosgarden.com Additional 5% discount in-store; a 20% discount coupon will be emailed to you for a future purchase, if you refer a friend!
	Colori colorichicago.com 10% off all purchases
	The Denim Lounge madisonandfriends.com/denimlounge Bring in one old, clean pair of jeans to recycle and receive a 35% discount on one pair of jeans
	Dilly Lily dillylily.com The first 30 ladies to mention CRAVE will be treated to a trio of festive Narcissus paperwhite bulbs
	Dollybird Design dollybirddesign.com Free shipping for all domestic online sales on the Dollybird Etsy Shop
	Elizabeth Grace on Saturday! elizabethgrace.com 15% discount on all custom holiday card orders (it’s not too late!) and pick-a-card gift certificate surprise with any $50 purchase
	Five Accessories fiveaccessories.com $5 discount on the Bali Collection wood bracelets; special pricing on the bamboo clutch with gems ($25)
	Gavin shopgavin.com Additional 5% discount on most items
	Innovative Orthodontic orthocenters.org $500 off a complete set of braces or invisilign (not to be combined with any other offer or discounted insurance plan)
	Kee2Creativity kee2creativity.com 50% discount on the Cherry Cheeks Collection (including notecards) from 5-10AM
	Knickers of Glen Ellyn knickersofglenellyn.blogspot.com Extra gift…a little something to pamper you during the holiday season
	The Left Bank leftbankjewelry.com All sterling silver monogrammed jewelry and gifts; buy one, get one 1/2 off
	Lisa Rosen lisarosen.com 20% discount; be sure to contact Lisa before ordering online and she will apply discount
	Love, Lulu Mae lovelulumae.com Use discount code ‘cravechicago’ for a 15% discount
	M.Go Fashion Salon mgofashion.com $30 Manicure & Pedicure and $30 No Chip Manicures, and all boutique merchandise will be 35% off from 12PM – 5PM
	Madison and Friends madisonandfriends.com Bring in one old, clean pair of jeans to recycle and receive a 35% discount on one pair of jeans
	Name Your Design nameyourdesign.com 15% discount and a free desk calendar to the first 50 people that use the coupon code “crave”
	Olive Owl Organics oliveowlorganics.com Free lip balm for the first 25 customers; buy 3 organic bar soaps and get a fre
	Noteworthy Notes (offer valid thru Sunday 11/29) noteworthynotes.com $50 off an order of $125 or more when using the coupon code ‘crave’
	Peek-a-Boutique peek-a-boutique.com Be treated to a special gift when mentioning this blog post!
	Randoons Wearables & Whatnots randoons.com 15% off your entire purchase, not including sale merchandise
	Sweet Papier sweetpapier.com 25% discount on orders placed on black friday with code SWEET
	Vive la Femme vivelafemme.com Free bracelet with clothing purchase (major markdowns already taken!)

Tags: connections, deals, holidays, sale, shopping, specials
Posted in Abode, Adorn, Details, Enhance, Moms, Pets, Sip / Savor, Style | 2 Comments »

CRAVE Chicago Book Launch Party

Saturday, November 21st, 2009

On Monday, November 16th CRAVE Chicago celebrated the upcoming arrival of it’s 1st edition CRAVE Manifesto!

Some photos from the book launch party

The CRAVE Chicago Manifesto is a savvy, quality-of-lifestyle book devoted entirely to the best local businesses, owned by women. Featuring over 100 women you need to know, CRAVE Chicago directs you to top boutiques, spas, cafes, stylists, fitness studios, and more, and will introduce you to the inspired, dedicated women behind these exceptional enterprises. At these locales, creativity, quality, innovation, and customer service are paramount. Not only is CRAVE Chicago an intelligent guidebook for those wanting to know what’s happening throughout town, it’s a directory for those who recognize, and value the contributions that spirited businesswomen make to our city.

• Profiles of more than 125 businesswomen you need to know in the Chicagoland area
• Features independent businesses unique to Chicagoland and some that have expanded internationally

Reading each CRAVE manifesto {we’re international, by the way!} is like opening a door to your very own party and fashion show. A CRAVE manifesto is an intelligent guidebook for those wanting to know what’s happening throughout town and celebrate the contributions that spirited business women make to our community, introducing you to the 100+ insightful, dedicated women behind these exceptional enterprises.

You can pick one up at any of these woman-owned businesses! {Arriving in stores this week!}

Tags: book, guides, manifesto, need to know, shopping, women
Posted in Abode, Adorn, Business, Connect, Details, Enhance, Interviews, Moms, Pets, Sip / Savor, Style, Travel | No Comments »

The Art of Design at Susan Fredman Design Group

Tuesday, October 27th, 2009

To celebrate CRAVE Chicago featured entrepreness Susan Fredman’s one year anniversary of opening the Susan Fredman At Home in the City store, we are joining the store and CS Interiors for an evening of artistic expression! This Thursday, October 29th from 5-8PM, we will be joining fellow sponsors Asher Neiman Gallery, Chicago News Gallery, CS Interiors, Juicy Wine Company, Marwen Inspiration Art Opportunity, Rockit Bar & Grill, Shift Art Callery and all of you fans of art & design on the first floor of 350 West Erie to toast the Susan Fredman Design Group on a fabulous first year!

During the event, celebrators are invited to enjoy a special preview collection from renowned artists such as Tracy Silva Barbosa, Marie Burke, Diane Dammeyer, Floyd Gompf, Judith Kruger, Gina Novendstern, Norbert Shimkus and Teri Tito! What a treat!

A portion of the requested $5 donation and all art sales will benefit the Marwen Inspiration Art Opportunity: a non-profit dedicated to inspiring under served young people through the visual arts.

Tags: art, design, network, party, shop
Posted in Abode | No Comments »

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