SHOP THE LOOK

It’s interesting how much can change in 365 days, not to mention a decade. 10 years ago I was a sophomore in high school, begging to let my mom let me drive everywhere with my learner’s permit and attending high school football games every weekend. Fast forward a decade and I’m married to my high school sweetheart, with a corgi living in Chicago. From high school to college and sororities, traveling to Denver to see Kollin, losses in our families, marriages and babies, a lot has happened in the 2010s, a lot that I’m grateful for.

2019 was a great year, but no time of light is appreciated without its moments of darkness. Like everyone, we faced some hardships, tough decisions, lots of change and new beginnings. After a 2 year engagement, 2019 was the year we were getting married. The wedding started feeling real and a huge chapter of our relationship, being engaged, was coming to a close. All this while we both were figuring out our career, changes in lifestyle and what we wanted our next move to be.

Looking back at this past year, I’m so grateful for the experiences, the challenges, the growth and the memories we created. At the beginning of 2019 I wrote a blog post about the Pressures of a New Year. Reading it back, I can wholeheartedly say that I was in a different place than now. 2019 was a year of growth and trying to understand myself better. The year began with some confusion, second guessing and even fear of what was to come, but as new beginnings arose and the unknown filled with some light, it became one of the best years of our lives.

From ringing in the new year with my soon-to-be siblings, finding bridesmaids dresses during an annual girls trip, celebrating a huge milestone for Kollin and seeing him sworn in to the Bar Association, to all the wedding festivities of showers, the bachelorette, meetings and more, 2019 was jam packed. We traveled to Wisconsin, Denver, Kentucky, Florida, Minnesota, and of course, Italy. We had the best day ever on September 7, 2019 when we got married in front of so many special people in our lives and had the best time celebrating that night.

As I look back at 2019 and think of a word to describe it, growth comes to mind. We both grew in our careers, grew deeper friendships, took strides in our health and understanding of who we want to be and both grew into new families while making our own. But one thing I am very grateful for this past year is really understanding who I want to be, how to get there and what I can do to make those goals come to fruition. The blog has helped me a lot in that aspect because it is reflective in its own way. I’ve been able to write about topics I wouldn’t have before, became a long-term partner with some brands and reached a big goal of joining the RewardStyle program. While expressing my fashion style and sharing my thoughts here and there I was able to take on what I was posting about in the “new year” post. Fashion has always been an outlet for me and this year more than ever I really dove into the styles and clothes that I wanted to without any restrictions on what people might think, or being too afraid to try something new.

With some down time toward the end of the year I’ve added some pieces I’ve been loving below and the pieces that I loved wearing in 2019. Wishing you and your families a very Happy New Year, until 2020… xx

favorites from shein

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favorite accessories

favorite handbags

favorite shoes

favorite extras

With November almost over it is getting to crunch time for holiday shopping and right about now is when I tend to remember the 4-6 people I initially forgot when I made the list of everyone I need to buy gifts for. This is also a good time to just stock up on lower priced items for the white elephant parties, office parties and random house warming gifts you might need. Everything below is under $40 and makes a great gift - you can even combine a few for a nicer gift or break up the sets into multiple gifts for multiple people!

FOR THE GIRL ON THE GO

We all know a woman in our life who is always traveling, has a longer commute to work or is always doing something! I love the gifts below for her since they can usually add to her routine, make life a little easier or just add some glam to her travel look!

EXTRAS FOR HIM

When shopping for Kollin I have an easier time with the “big” gifts or the one thing I know he wants vs. the smaller things that he needs or wants, but doesn’t ask for. These can range from mundane things like socks to just an extra belt to pull out of the closet when getting ready for work. I like having a couple of extras under the tree for him and love these ideas that are still in a good budget!

FOR THE HOSTESS

Holidays are a busy time, especially if you are the one entertaining. I was always brought up to bring something when invited to someone’s home and I love going outside the options of a bottle of wine or candle. While both are still great options, here are some other things that could brighten their kitchen or home!

JEWELRY

Add some sparkle to her stocking with these fun and fabulously priced jewels! And if anything listed is above the $40 price point - it’s on sale - like these fab Baublebar rings (and their entire site) that are 25% off with code FESTIVE25.

I’ve added even more options below that are all under $40 and great gifting options! I hope everyone has a safe and fun Thanksgiving holiday. I’m thankful for so much and for each of you that read my little space on the internet. Have a wonderful holiday!

Black Friday seems to start on November 1st now, but no matter your shopping style there seems to be sales happening all over the place, especially this week! I’ve rounded up a list of retailers that have sales going on currently and though Cyber Monday. I’ll continue to update this list as sales come out and some retailers change their deals once Black Friday is actually here so be sure to check back on Friday for even more stores. Happy shopping!

*Updated 11/27 10AM

ABERCROMBIE | 50% entire store

ALO YOGA | Code: EARLYACCESS19 (11/20 - 11/28)

BANANA REPUBLIC | 0% off regular priced merchandise + extra 10% off when you use your GAP card *UPDATED

BAUBLEBAR | 25% off with code FESTIVE25

BOOHOO | 30% off everything black friday warm up | up to 70% off starting black friday

CHICWISH | 25% off sitewide with code BLK25

CARTER’S | Free shipping and an extra 20% off orders $40+ with code REINDEER | Extra $10 off $50+ orders with code LTKSALE from 11/29-12/2

EXPRESS | 50% off everything

GAP | 50% off everything with code BLKFRIDAY *UPDATED

GOOD AMERICAN | Jean pricing dropped to $99

INTERMIX | 40% off designer sale

JACK ROGERS: Everything under $50 (select styles)

J. CREW | 50% off + EXTRA 60% off sale with code SHOPFIRST for J. Crew account memebers + 40% off with code WHYWAIT for non-members

KATE SPADE NEW YORK | 40% off your entire purchase with code TGIBF

KENDRA SCOTT | 25% off everything OR 30% off when you spend $300 *ADDED

LULULEMON | Black Friday sale starts 11/28 - 12/2

LOFT | Get 40% off your purchase with code BESTWEEK (ends Nov 27)

MACY’S | Receive an extra 20% off, plus free shipping at $25 - use code BLKFRI for all Black Friday Specials (11/27 - 11/30)

MADEWELL | 25% off your purchase using code STARTEARLY

MARLEYLILLY | $25 and under warehouse sale (ends 11/26)

NET-A-PORTER | Up to 50% off Designer pieces | Enjoy an extra 15% off with code BLACKFRIDAY on items marked “additional 15% off” from 11/28

NORDSTROM | Cyber Sale Is LIVE! Up to 50% off select merchandise *ADDED

OLD NAVY | 50% off everything *ADDED

RAPLH LAUREN | Extra 30% off sale styles | up to 30% off through Cyber Monday

SHOPBOP | Buy more, save more sale! 15-25% off depending on how much you spend with code MORE19

SHEIN | up to 60% off using code BLK2019 - use my personal code 4tccb for an additional 15% off (no limits)

SPANX | 20% off sitewide! *ADDED

SSENSE | Up to 50% off designer items like Golden Goose sneakers

TOPSHOP | 20% off shoes and bags | 25% everything from 11/27 - 12/1 and up to 50% off everything 12/2

TORY BURCH | 30% off when you spend $250+ or more with code THANKS

I hope y’all are ready because this is a long one! With so many different types of women and all the relationships they encompass, finding a gift that works for everyone can be tough. Because of that, I’ve divided this post into sections that I think will help you shop a little! From stocking stuffers to splurges she will never forget, I hope you find what you’re looking for to check off your list!

FOR THE HOMEBODY

For the girl who is always cozy, loves a good candle and spends her nights wrapped up in a good book or movie, these gifts are for her! i recently got these slippers and don’t touch the floor without them on now! They are so comfortable and come in a ton of colors! If she loves to entertain in her home getting something that she can use while entertaining checks two boxes of something she loves and something she’ll use! I love these agate coasters and how cute are these measuring cups?!

FOR THE FASHIONISTA

Whether she is rocking the rising trend of animal print or she’s that friend that always has a unique accessory, these items are for her! The headband trend is back and I love these Gucci dupe headbands for a touch of chicness to any look. They come in a three pack so you could easily split them between friends or give them all as a gift for multiple styles! Now let’s talk leopard print. Looking back at my recent orders I have gotten so much and have no shame! It is very in this season and I’m loving it! From these amazing boots (from Walmart and so cheap!) to this cozy sweater she will be pulling these items out all winter and into spring for a feisty and bold ensemble. You also can’t go wrong with the sneaks that everyone is rocking this year. These are a great dupe for the super expensive Golden Goose sneakers and come in a bunch of options!

FOR THE BEAUTY GURU

This is where I humble myself because I am the farthest thing from a beauty blogger, but when I saw these items and the prices I knew I had to include them! They are also by brands that I stand behind or items I personally own so I also knew that I could back them up. I’ve been using Tula for a few years now and this holiday set is such a good price! You also can’t go wrong with stocking up that beauty girl’s lipstick holder and this MAC set has the perfect holiday colors she’ll be rocking into the new year and some great ones she can take into spring! If you’re looking for a gift that keeps on giving and is something she’ll use everyday - try this Clarisonic cleansing brush - it’s proven to clean 6x better than hands alone!

STOCKING STUFFERS

Need a little something for a co-worker or a couple items to bring to a gift exchange? These items are great for that and also for adding some extra love to her stocking this year! If she loves to write or is in that homebody category, you can’t go wrong with a nice journal! I love this one and the fun initial! Since we are all glued to our phones, computers, iPads and everything else digital I can’t recommend these blue light glasses enough! They block blue light that can be harmful to your eyesight - since i’ve been wearing them I’ve noticed a difference in my headaches and eyesight!

Don’t let her wine go to waste with this cute wine stopper - add a touch of personalization with her initial! It’s perfect to include with a bottle of wine for a hostess gift or with a set of wine glasses for your mom or mother in law! If she is a frequent flyer, these luggages tags are so cute and with add a bit of fun to her luggage!

LOVELY LUXURIES

“Expensive” or “affordable” is relative since everyone has a different budget and idea of what a lot is, but I thought these higher priced items were great gifts if you are looking to spend a bit more. Rather than getting a few things that amount to the same price that she might like, spending the same for a luxury or designer item is something she won’t forget! I was gifted this Gucci cardholder from a previous boss and I have used it everyday since. It’s the perfect size for your ID and credit card so I don’t have to carry around a huge wallet!

When I first saw the price of this blanket I laughed out loud and was like “yeah, okay whatever people,” and I didn’t believe the hype. I was gifted a different one by the same brand as a wedding gift and y’all… the hype is real. I added this to my Christmas list and love the leopard print in the neutral color! Speaking of hype, you can’t go wrong with the AirPods! If she loves jewelry and is looking for a piece she will wear everyday, these are it! These huggies add subtle sparkle and multiple ways to wear will validate the price since she’ll be wearing them all the time! I’ve owned them for two years and pretty much haven’t taken them out!

FOR YOUR MOM OR MOTHER IN LOVE/LAW

For some reason shopping for your parents can be so difficult! They seem to have it all together and what do you get the person who seems to have everything they need - I mean they are MOM and are just always with it right? You get them things to pamper or make life easier! Since they are usually taking care of everyone else, take care of her!

I hope this was helpful and you checked the ladies off your holiday list! Be sure to check back for Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals, but many of these items are already on sale! Happy shopping and thanks so much for reading! xx

I can’t believe it is time to start shopping for the holidays and I wanted to start with the ones that cause the most questions - the men! It only took 3 of the 15 people who told me they have no idea what to get their husbands, brothers, dads, father-in-law, etc. for me to know that this gift guide is the place to start! You’ll find some call outs below based on the relationship and then find all items at the bottom!

YOUR HUSBAND, BOYFRIEND, FIANCÉ, PARTNER

When it comes to our significant others I usually like to purchase the things they won’t buy for themselves. Kollin is soo the person who never spoils themselves or buys something just because he wants it - enter me! I try and get him some practical gifts for Christmas that he won’t buy himself and then some surprises based on what he has talked about wanting each year.

This is usually something that he needs an upgrade in like the joggers he’s worn in from last year or the duffle he takes to the gym which is actually the travel backpack we bought for Italy… lol. This one can be used for weekend trips, the gym or travel. I also love gifting men gifts that make their life more organized and efficient without changing their routine. He plugs in his apple watch and phone each night to charge, but why not clean up the cords with a nice charging stand? While we’re at it let’s upgrade his watch band and give him more outfit options with multiple bands.

FATHER OR FATHER IN LOVE/LAW

I got a ton of requests for in laws and dads! I love the above rule for older men as well, but when it comes to dads you may not know exactly what to get them on the same level as you would your husband or boyfriend. Here are some common items that every guy could use and that work for most personalities and styles! This watch box was a huge hit last year and can be customized for a personal touch! Upgrading their technology is always a good option too! This Echo Show 5 is such a cool gift that they’ll use all the time! If your father or father-in-law is a fisher, hunter, boater or anything outdoorsy, this Yeti cooler is a winner they’ll be sure to love!

STOCKING STUFFERS

These items are items that are great no matter the man you’re shopping for and are some good price points too! I find it always helps to find items that are things they will use a lot and it does the trick in being a success! A reusable water bottle is a great option for any guy and adding their initial adds a thoughtful touch! A nice pair of gloves is something they’ll need, but never ask for or buy themselves. If the guy you’re shopping for is a golfer, this is a unique gift and something they’ll be sure to show off! Is he into cigars? He’ll love this holder and cutter. A good henley is something he’ll love and you’ll approve of outfit wise! Get it in his favorite color or several for multiple options!

I hope this helped some of you shopping for the men in your life! With so many people to shop for and December quickly approaching, I hope you found some things you were looking for! While they might be tough to shop for, they are worth the challenge. Happy shopping y’all!

Are you a shoes or bag girl? I think in my core I’m a bag girl, but I do love my shoes! I sadly just don’t get to wear a ton of them in Chicago once the weather turns colder. Rain, sleet, snow and dirty Chicago streets don’t equate to pulling out the designer shoes unfortunately. But, I have found that there are some styles I consistently reach for every year for Fall that I get a ton of wear in before the colder temps set in and I’ll tell you why!

SAM EDELMAN LORRAINE BIT LOAFER

I first purchased this shoe in 2017 and have been obsessed ever since. I own them in silver, black, white and am looking to get these soon! They are the perfect shoe to run around in and I wear them most often to work. They are so comfortable and add elegance and polish to any look from ripped jeans and sweater to slacks and a button down if you work in corporate. They come in every color imaginable and different materials from suede, leather and patent leather and crocodile (faux). I’m very true to size in Sam Edelman and go with my normal size of 7 - they do stretch out a bit over time, but this only makes them more comfortable and shouldn’t impact sizing. I also get asked a lot if they are the Gucci pair - such a great dupe!

BLOCK HEEL BROWN BOOTIES

For the last few years I’ve been on the search for a pair of brown block heel booties that didn’t break the bank. Unfortunately, two winters ago I was wearing a pair and running to catch the bus (like really running) and the seam of the bootie completely split open when I fell on some ice (as you can imagine IT WAS A DAY). Since then I hadn’t been able to find a pair that weren’t an investment that I loved. While browsing some sites I came across these. I didn’t want true cognac, the heel height had to be right and they needed to be affordable. Well they came in last week and I love them! They are comfortable (took about two days to break in the stiffness) and I love the added height - and they’re 37% off!

STEVE MADDEN GEORGETTE OVER THE KNEE BOOTS

I’m sure y’all are familiar with this style as they’ve been all the range the last few years. I first ordered a pair that had a taller heel and since I’m somewhat tall and long legged I was just getting stripper vibes every time I wore them, which for me was not the goal. I then discovered the Georgette style from Steve Madden and love them! I have them in black and a taupe / grey color and they are easily one of my most worn shoes in Fall and Winter. Pair with skinny jeans, leggings, a long midi dress, skirt and sweater - the options are endless. These are tight enough to stay up on your leg, comfortable and the colors are great.

PERFECT COMFORTABLE PUMPS

I love wearing heels, but not all heels are created equal. The majority of the amazing ones are very uncomfortable and the comfortable ones aren’t the most exciting usually. When I was working in investment banking, I was wearing heels almost everyday and found my go-to pair that are stylish and comfortable. The Sam Edelman Hazel Pump. They come in a ton of colors, suede or leather, are the perfect heel height and very comfortable! I love the suede as they are a bit more formal and great for Fall and Winter, but I own a nude pair in leather and love them too! They come in a leopard brahma that I will be buying myself!

CASUAL SNEAKERS

In today’s trend world, it seems sneakers are here to stay. I’ve been a more athleisure / Nike girl when it comes to sneakers and I wasn’t loving the Golden Goose dirty sneaker vibe that everyone was into. I couldn’t justify spending THAT much on sneakers that looked they had been in the back of your closet for 10 years… so I opted for some dupes that weren’t as distressed and they did not disappoint! I ordered these from SHEIN to give the trend a try and really like them! I pair mine with jeans and even dresses for a more casual look. I’ve added some other styles below, but if you order from SHEIN I would go up a size!

SNAKE SKIN

Leopard is very in this season and so is snake skin! Really any animal print, but one I am loving with neutrals is snake skin. From booties, to slides to pumps, I look the way it adds some edge to your look that is a bit more understated than leopard. I got these Sam Edelman booties last Christmas and love them! Paired with jeans and even shorts if it’s still warm where you are, they are a low heel and pretty comfortable - they are a thick material so breaking in takes a bit. One of my favorite pairs of shoes were a gift from Kollin and he totally surprised me with - you guessed it - snake skin! They are an older style, but are similar to these!

Mules

Similar to the loafers at the top of the post, the mule loafer style was all the rage when Gucci made them in every color, with fur, and multiple designs. While they won’t transition you into winter, they are an easy, on-the-go style that you can wear throughout the Fall season. I love this pair, but have added some cheaper options below too!

BLACK BOOTIES

Always a classic and always chic, black booties will be a closet staple for years for come. I prefer a black heel for comfort, but love a stiletto black bootie too! My favorite pair are shocker, Sam Edeleman Hilty Pointed Toe Bootie, but I’ve linked some other amazing ones too! Pair these wth a pair of skinny black denim or even leather leggings for a date night and wear more casually with a cute sweater and skirt during the day.

SHOP THE LOOK

Use code “4tcbb” for 15% off your SHEIN orders

If there is one thing that Kollin and I love - it is date night. And not just like “hey, let’s grab something quick,” but a more get dressed up, make a night of it, romantic date night. We’ve lost sight of doing these during wedding planning, but now that the wedding is over we are full steam ahead on getting date nights back on the calendar! I’ve rounded up some of our favorite places (and why) and some that we are hoping to try soon. They range in price, but I would say the majority you could keep the check relatively low without drinks (that’s where they get you in Chi). As a heads up you’ll see a lot of Italian, New Wave American and some Michelin Star Restaurants, but don’t let the Michelin rating scare you from going - many have several affordable options and the experience is something you’ll never forget!

Riccardo Trattoria

• $$-$$$ - Lincoln Park

• Established in 1943 by a family from Milan, this was our go-to nice Italian restaurant for a long time. We’ve been on date night, brought family in and love the intimate, family-oriented vibe. We love the meatballs and calamari to start, gnocchi and the ravioli di vitella alla massaia (veal and pork filled ravioli tossed with meat sauce, Porcini and a touch of cream).

Eataly

• $-$$$ - River North

• What we love about Eataly is that it is what you make it. If you’re in the mood for a panini and gelato or a full three course meal - you can have either here. Designed as an Italian Market, this date night spot is perfect for roaming around and discovering amazing Italian food, drinks and more. Several sit at the counter type restaurants are inside the market and it is so fun to sit and watch as the food is prepared, learn about different Italian specialties and they often hold wine tastings and cooking classes.

Piccolo Sogno

• $$$ - River West

• Ok, last Italian place! But, this one is so great. We took my mom here for her birthday and it was so good! We started with a bottle of rose to share and then opted for the burrata to start, ravioli, papardelle and Kollin got the Ox tail. I would say if you’re looking for a fancy Italian night-on-the-town date night go here rather than Riccardo’s, but if you want a more quiet, intimate spot opt for Riccardo’s.

Bad Hunter

• $$- West Loop - Vegetarian Options!

• Packed into one of the most amazing restaurant areas in the city - W Randolph Street - this little spot is where a girlfriend and I had dinner one night to catch up. She’s a vegetarian and they had so many things to offer in that category. While I’m not a vegetarian, we usually end up sharing everything anyways and it was so delicious! We ordered: sparkling rose, burrata, butter dumplings (I could eat five plates of these and would go back to just order them), Mezze Maniche Pasta for me (it had panchetta). We loved the atmosphere here and it is perfect location wise to walk around post-dinner for drinks or dessert, especially in Summer.

The Loyalist

• $-$$ - Near West Side

• Part of the dual-restaurant establishment, The Smyth and The Loyalist - the later is a downstairs, casual basement-esque bar/lounge that sits below the same owner’s two-star Michelin restuarant, The Smyth. Kollin and I have yet to try The Smyth, but we frequent the Loyalist and have a somewhat controversial stance on their star of the menu: the cheeseburger. If you ask most people in Chi what the best burger in town is, the majority of them will say Au Cheval - and while they aren’t wrong in it being really really good, Kollin and I love the Loyalist burger even more. We ordered the Foie Gras Eclair, Deviled Eggs, Broiled Oysters and each got the “Loyalist” burger (yes, order your own. You will thank me later). We’ve had their special burger and it was also delicious so if you’re with more than 2 people order both and share, but do not skip out on the original!

Boka

• $$$ - Ranch Triangle - One Michelin Star

• Kollin and I took his brother and girlfriend here for a fancy date night and it did not disappoint! It has been awarded a Michelin star for 7 consecutive years and it isn’t hard to understand why as soon as you walk in. Very luxurious, but whimsical we were seated by a plant wall filled with paintings of what appeared to be aristocrats with animal heads. Big cushioned chairs and moody paint palettes add to the fun and eclectic vibe. We each started with a cocktail (very good!) and the ricotta dumplings (insane). I had the roasted chicken and Kollin ordered the short rib. Both were outstanding. They offer an 8-course tasting menu, but we opted to try that when we came back on our own.

Girl and the Goat

• $$$ - West Loop

• Located in that same amazing restaurant area of W Randolph Street, I’m a little bitter about this one… We had been wanting to go here for a long time, but every time we tried it was booked solid. Kollin and his brother stumbled in one night on a whim without a reservation and sat at the bar. Owned by Stephanie Izard, the first female winner of Top Chef, it is one of Chicago’s most popular restaurants and the food (only Kollin and his brother would know…) meets the hype. I don’t know for sure what they ordered (other than pig face (yes, literally) and “the best dessert we’ve ever had - baba au bourbon”), but the crab rangoon squash blossoms, seared scallops and the goat empanadas look tasty to me!

Cantina Laredo

• $$ - River North

• This is where a previous boss would take us to celebrate a big deal win or simply some team bonding over margs and I’ve loved it every time! From the fresh table-side made quac and the quesadillas and ceviche, this place is an easy, casual but still upscale for date night place! It is also in a great night-life neighborhood if you’re looking to make a night on the town happen post dinner!

Copper Fox

• $-$$ - Streeterville

• When Kollin and I lived in Streeterville this place became our “I don’t feel look cooking… date night!” place. It’s up there with one of my favorite burgers in the city and is located in the Marriott hotel. It was usually pretty quiet and gave that perfect close to home, but still special environment. You have to order the baked Gouda mac and cheese, #16 biscuits, and the Fox burger. Kollin and I usually split all this and ordered drinks for the perfect amount of food.

Blackbird

• $$$ - West Loop - One Michelin Star

• Blackbird was Kollin and I’s first Michelin experience in Chicago and it has become our favorite restaurant. We first went here on our 5 year anniversary and then he surprised me again on my 25th birthday and we went back. Each time has been so memorable. From the amazing food, exceptional service and overall experience, the attention to detail is perfect. The first time we went was for Chicago’s Restaurant Week and we did the pre-fixe menu. (This is a great way to experience some higher priced places in Chicago if you are here in Jan-Feb). The second time we visited we ordered a la carte. While the menu changes often, I have not tasted one thing that I did not LOVE here. If I have any advice on Michelin restaurants, always, always have dessert. The best desserts we’ve ever had have been at Michelin places and are so memorable - here we had a mango Popsicle with spice cake and bourbon ice cream that were out of this world.

Tanta

• $$-$$$ - River North

• One of the first Peruvian places we tried in the city, this was another favorite of my former boss. Filled with awesome cocktails, tons of ceviche and traditional Peruvian dishes, it is simply good food. If you aren’t into spicy I would definitely make that known as some dishes have some heat. We haven’t been back in a while because there is so many new places to try, but it is very good!

Sunda

• $$$ - River North

• This new-Asian spot is great for a unique date-night and the food is so good. I first went here with work peeps and then took Kollin back after I brought home left overs and he devoured them. If you go, try the crispy brussels sprout salad - I’m not a big salad girl and don’t like brussels sprouts and loved it if that tells you anything… we also got the lemon grass lollipops, long rib and a few sushi rolls. Can’t really go wrong here!

Summer House Santa Monica

• $$ - Lincoln Park

• A California oasis in the heart of Lincoln Park, this spot is relaxing, fresh and a great vibe. Go for a glass of rose, the crab cakes, and four cheese tortellini. I’m not into nigiri, but Kollin ordered the spicy tuna and said it was great also! It is in a super cute neighborhood so take a walk around after and see the shops and amazing houses near by.

Donkey Table Stick

• $$- Logan Square

• We went here the day we found out Kollin passed the bar and had the best time. A tiny place in Logan Square that seats maybe 30 people, we went for the bourbon selection, but loved everything we had. We started with a glass of rose for me and a celebratory shot of Pappy Van Winkle for Kollin and the potato latkes. I had the CDK burger for dinner and Kollin had the special which I am completely blanking on, but the scallops were a big contender too!

Cabra

• $$ - West Loop

• Located on the roof of the new Hoxton Hotel, this Peruvian cevicheria is the newest restaurant from Stephanie Izard (Girl and the Goat above). We came here on a double date with Kollin’s brother and girlfriend and it was so good! We ordered so much, but these are our favorites - start with a cocktail - we recommend Golden Hour or Malambo No. 5 - and then order about 4-6 small plates to share. Here’s what we loved - shrimp ceviche, crab causa, Chicharrón del Puerco, Chicken Thigh Anticucho, and the Picarones for dessert. This place has an amazing view of the city and is so gorgeous at sunset.

Duke of Perth

• $$ - Lakeview

• Kollin was on the hunt for good fish and chips in the city and his PT, who is British, told him about this place and how it was the only place she has found in Chicago that is relatively up to par with English fish and chips. We went one night and it was sooo good. I don’t even eat fish and was asking Kollin for more bites. You also have to order the potato soup. It’s bomb. They have a cute back courtyard with lights and music that is dreamy during summer nights.

Duck Duck Goat

• $$$ - West Loop

• Another Stephanie Izard restaurant, and just as delicious as the others. We came here on a double date and then again with a work event and it was delicious. I encourage you to be adventurous as this place as it has a unique menu. Just try it once! We ordered shrimp toast, wood-fired duck heart, Jiaozi (Beef short rib and bone marrow pot stickers), wood-fired ribs, beef slap noodles, the duck fried rice, and the mango coconut cloud for dessert. Needless to say, we were stuffed and it was delicious.

Roister

• $$$ - West Loop - One Michelin Star

• We first came here for dinner and then again the morning of Kollin’s graduation from law school for brunch. I’ll start with dinner - it was just the two of us and we were seated next to these guys who come to find out were traveling for business. As our food starting coming out they kept saying they regretted what they ordered and kept asking what our dishes were. We started chatting more and strangely enough we ended up pushing the tables together and all sharing our plates. It has been a while since we’ve been so the menu has completely changed over, but everything we ordered was outstanding.

• When we went for brunch we had the foie toast (omg so good - Kollin is allergic to strawberries and didn’t care. He couldn’t stop eating it), the fried-chicken sandwich, the chicken and waffles and ended with the milk and cookies.

  • Side note: this restaurant is owned by the same chef of Alinea, the three-star Michelin rated (the highest accolade and only three star in Chicago) restaurant and is currently ranked #21 best restaurant in the world.

Prime and Provisions

• $$$$ - Loop

• When we first moved to the city, this place was our go to for a fancy steak dinner date night. The traditional steak and seafood restaurant was always delicious and always a special spot since we mostly came here for anniversaries. We both love crab cakes and this our favorite we’ve had in the city - it’s lobster and crab and massive and so good. We followed that with the lobster bisque, and usually split a steak with the mac and cheese, charred sweet corn (you have to get this), and the asparagus. For dessert, we were usually always surprised with their s’mores as a celebratory gift from the restaurant for our anniversary and it is such a cool experience. I won’t spoil it, but order it when you go! They also have a cigar menu if you are into that - which obviously Kollin very much was. There is a lounge you can sit in outside and enjoy.

XOCO

• $-$$ - River North

• A restaurant by Rick Bayless, a very prominent and successful chef in Chi - XOCO is a Mexican marketplace type casual spot that offers street food like great sandwiches, soups and empanadas. Kollin and I mostly came here for lunch dates during the work week and loved how delicious it was, but it didn’t break the bank. I usually ordered the Cubana or chicken tinga tacos and Kollin loves their soups. The churros are also really good!

While everything above are places that Kollin and I (or just one of us with friends) have gone, here are some of the places we want to try next that have rave reviews:

Ada Street

Monteverde

Maple & Ash

Le Colonial

Oriole

Momotaro

Alinea

Proxi

Kuma’s Corner

I could go on forever because there are sooo many places and even though we’ve lived here for four years, we feel like we’ve barely scratched the surface. We would love to hear your recommendations too! Be sure to check out my Chicago Guide for great brunch and other eatery options that I wrote a couple years ago. Thanks so much for reading and let me know of any questions you have if you’re planning a trip to Chi! xx

Thank you to SHEIN for the gifted shorts. It is brands like yours that make The Creative Brief possible. All opinions are my own.

Well y’all, we’re married! The past month or so has been such a whirlwind and complete dream. Our wedding and honeymoon exceeded all of our expectations and I’m happy to share as many details or as little details as y’all would like me to regarding the planning, the day of, honeymoon, etc. I seemed to have great feedback from #TheWeddingEdit thus far and was going to continue if only for the reason to give my amazing team of vendors the credit they so deserve.

If there was one part of the process that I was so excited about, but was surprised how it all went down it was my dress. I had been in a few weddings prior to selecting my dress and witnessed brides going through the dress process so I thought I knew what to expect. I was never really the girl who envisioned her wedding from the time she was a little girl, but I had an idea in my mind of what I wanted. Growing up Catholic, many of visions I had of what I would be wearing included a train and long veil at the minimum, both of which I ended up with, but the path there was interesting.

My mom and I started dress shopping in September 2017, a few months after Kollin and I got engaged. We still hadn’t decided to get married in KY or Chicago yet, but since it was easier for us to travel to KY I started the process there. We went to a store on a Saturday morning and y’all - I hated white, I hated Ivory, I was not feeling the bridal fever. To be completely honest, it was discouraging to not like a lot of what I thought I would. What I learned was that just because it looks beautiful on Pinterest with mega editing and a gorgeous model doesn’t mean it will translate well to #RealLife. I initially envisioned myself in sleeves, lace and something with a touch of glam. As y’all now know, I didn’t go that route.

We ended up leaving that first appointment and I “liked” one of the dresses I tried on, but I also had the new found knowledge that I wasn’t loving bridal white. A few months passed and by that time we had decided that the wedding would be in Kentucky. I kept looking at KY bridal boutiques, but they weren’t carrying the designers I was hoping to try on. I also didn’t want to have a dress that so many other brides were getting (this became a thing when we were looking in Kentucky. Thankfully the sales women were very honest with me about that and let me know that some of the dresses I had on had been purchased 12 times that year already…). That’s when we decided to take the adventure to Chicago.

I made appointments at two bridal salons in Chicago the weekend of Kollin’s graduation from law school (eventful weekend lol) so that his mom and my mom could both attend. The first appointment we went to had some amazing dresses and both moms thought we found THE ONE. It was beautiful and pretty much everything I was looking for at that point, but for some reason I wasn’t as excited as they were. I thought maybe it was the nerves or the pressure of feeling like I needed to have their approval, but something was off. I didn’t feel like myself. I knew on your wedding day you looked probably the most “done up” you probably ever will, but the dress wasn’t making ME feel that way and if there was one thing I wanted to feel like on my wedding day, it’s myself. We headed to the next appointment at Bella Bianca Bridal Couture and started pulling dresses. We went through maybe 5-7 dresses, all couture and all gorgeous, but nothing was “the one.” My sales associate mentioned that the appointment was coming to a close and that we could book another appointment to keep looking another weekend. I felt pretty discouraged as we had made a whole weekend out of it and I didn’t find the one. As I was about to make my way back to the dressing room, another sales associate who had been working reception during my appointment (right next to where I was) and had overheard our conversations said, “I have your dress. I know exactly your dress.” So, obviously I said ok let’s try it on!

He said, “it arrived yesterday and hasn’t been tried on by anyone in Chicago yet.” My ears perked up and I couldn’t wait to see it. I went back to the dressing room and waited for them to bring the dress in. Still packed in it’s shipping garment bag, I was immediately intrigued. My sales associate pulled out the most gorgeous, iridescent, blush gown I have ever seen. Considered a ball gown, I was wondering how I would feel in it as I didn’t care for the other ball gowns I had tried on. I put it on, LOVED it, but no tears. This is the closest I felt to the one, but something was a little off. I walked out to the salon hoping my mom and Kollin’s would love it as much as I did. Their faces weren’t exactly faces of “omg that is your dress!” but they said they liked it. Tired from a long day, the price tag didn’t add to the excitement. In my mind, it was time to go home and call it a day.

My amazing sales associate could tell I loved the dress and was talking up all of the points I had mentioned in the dressing room (y’all she was amazing and so helpful). While we all came around to loving it, my mom had concerns about the U-shaped neckline. It was very unique, but didn’t fit my silhouette or style as much as we thought a V-neck would. With even more time running out of our appointment I said we could come back and try it on again another time. My sales associate wasn’t having it. She transitioned her next appointment to another sales girl and brought up alterations to discuss our options (see what I mean about her being awesome?)

After confirming we could change the neckline, I could tell my mom was coming around. My sales associate had one more trick up her sleeve to seal the deal and y’all it was the kicker. She said, “You have to see this dress in natural light and we have to add a veil.” We moved to the front of the store that had a bunch of windows and she put a veil on me. I definitely looked the part, but still no tears. Where are all these #YesToTheDress tear moments and why wasn’t I having one!? Maybe it wasn’t the one…

She slipped away for a minute and came back with a silk bouquet. I thought “wow such a small detail won’t matter.” Boy was I wrong. I took the bouquet and turned around to face the mirror and completely lost it. Like Kim K ugly cry lost it. It was the one. I envisioned myself marrying Kollin in that dress and then Kollin’s mom lost it when I said that so we all cried and knew we found it.

I ended up choosing a Lazaro gown in the color Sherbert. I went home to get ready for Kollin’s graduation party and wanted to show everyone, even Kollin but he wouldn’t let me of course. The more I looked at pictures and videos the more and more I loved the dress. Since Lazaro makes each dress to order, it would take 6-8 months for the dress to arrive in Chicago. With my neckline alterations, which still had to be approved by Lazaro himself (#NoPressure), it could take even longer. By that time we would only be 6 months prior to the wedding.

March 15th was the expected delivery and it came and went. April also came and went and we learned that the first time that the new bodice was completed Lazaro was unhappy with it so the entire thing had to be made again. Enter stress mode. My dress finally arrived from Italy in May and y’all it was a dream. Still too big and needing alterations, the bodice and my small chested frame weren’t getting a long. Everyone reassured me that it would be fine and that they have to order it larger to take it in and it would fit me perfectly after alterations. I wasn’t feeling super confident, but I put it out of my mind and waited until my alterations appointments in August.

If you are still here, bless you we are almost there!

August came and I could not wait to try my dress on again. I slipped it on and it fit much better, but it was still a lot of dress. We shortened it quite a bit, took the bodice in more, added cups and took the straps up again. At my second fitting, my mom tagged a long to see the major changes as she had only seen pictures at this point and the seamstress started pinning for bustling. With the dress still needing shortening and a lot of tulle to account for, the bustle looked kind of a mess to be totally honest. The seamstress reassured us that it was because the length and sizing were still not done and it would look completely different once finished. My mom wasn’t thrilled and realized that she wouldn’t see the dress again until the wedding. We went to dinner and she contemplated booking another flight up prior to the wedding to make sure it was perfect. I told her I could handle it and to just have faith that Bella Bianca would make it amazing. I came back for my final fitting and it was perfect. The bodice fit like a glove, the skirt was the perfect length and the bustle was significantly smaller than at the last appointment. All I needed to do was to have faith in the amazing dress and seamstresses that Bella Bianca provided and know it would work out.

With two weeks until wedding day, Kollin picked up the dress (LOL) - the Bella Bianca team FaceTimed me to show me the dress to ensure it was the same one and walk me through what they had done and then wrapped it so Kollin would have basically had to rip through the Fort Knox version of garment bags to see it. He didn’t even want to though! We left for Kentucky the following weekend and the dress took up basically the entire back of our car haha.

Once I put it all on again on wedding day everything came into place. I felt so much like myself, but the glittery, ball gown, bridal extravaganza version and am so thankful for the amazing experience I had with the Bella Bianca and Lazaro team. I’ll be sure to share more once our pictures come in, but wanted to share the BTS and process portion of finding the perfect dress!