Tag Archives: Alexis Bittar

CHESHIRE CAT SMILES ALL AROUND FOR OFFICE MAX’S GREEN TIE BALL!

…PLUS 30/30/30 FOR TCW MAG, BRIAN ATWOOD’S A-LIST PARTY, HENSON’S HIGH HONOR, HORSING AROUND AT THE EVERGREEN INVITATIONAL, PRIMO CLASSICO, HARRIS THEATER’S ONE NIGHT COUP, GOLD COAST FASHION AWARDS RETURNS, LATINO FASHION WEEK, CHEF ERIC LANLARD WANTS TO “TART IT UP!,” A MAGICAL WATCH312.COM VIDEO AND SO MUCH MORE!
 
Blog 1 - Guests with Red Moon Theater actorsThe Office Max Green Tie Ball just keeps getting bigger and better! I didn’t think they could top last year’s theme – “The Wizard of Oz” – but with the fantastic addition of Red Moon Theater Company, “Alice in Wonderland” came Blog 2 - Joanna and Grant DePorterto life this year for more than 3,000 guests. From the moment you entered the steel factory grounds of A. Finkl & Sons, you knew magic was afoot when you walked the GREEN carpet! Dramatic visuals thrilled your senses everywhere you looked beginning with striking artwork from this classic book streaming down the sides of the Blog 3 - Emcee Val Warner with the Landon Twinstent as you entered the grounds. The Mad Hatter’s tent made me gasp as I saw oversized lamps and fabulous scenes projected on every wall. And the FOOD! There were more than 70 food stations and I don’t mean little tastings: This was REAL food prepared by Blog 4 - Interviewing Pete Wentz and girlfriend Meagan Camperchefs who wanted to be noticed. Rub BBQ Company served a BBQ martini consisting of coleslaw, cornbread, baker beans and smoked pork shoulder all in one cup! Zapatista’s carnitas on rice flower tortillas with jalapenos was mouthwatering and Flo & Santos served ravarogi (meat pierogies) with vodka Blog 5 - Sarah Cooley (2nd from R), Richard Roeper and friendscream sauce. Thank goodness I didn’t get to ALL 70 restaurants, although I did see great stuff from Frog & Snail, GT Fish & Oyster, III Forks, Rosebud, 25 Degrees, Province, Frontier and Public House. I was especially touched by Blog 6 - Jerry Roeper and David Lissnerthe offerings from the sweet kids from Bethlehem Lutheran Church who were on hand from the After School Matters’ Culinary Arts Program. Proud ASM Culinary Director/Chef Gloria Hafer said, “These students are special to us and I know they will succeed because of the Blog 7 - After School Matters students with their creationsconcern of the people here who have taken an interest in the program. I’m working diligently through ASM to promote self-esteem, excellence, and appreciation of the culinary arts.” Students in the program prepared, displayed and served more Blog 8 - Shari and Paul Duffythan 2,000 “Alice in Wonderland”-themed cookies and cakes. I watch a lot of master chef shows and these kids could teach them a thing or two from what I saw on this night. Shannon Roche, Gisel Bahena, Abigail Garcia, Lily Harris and Omar Cardenas proudly displayed their works of art and told me how Blog 9important the program was to them. Gisel plans on working in the culinary arts and Omar was happy to have a place to go that would keep him “off the streets.” Abigail commented on the fun she had and how much she loved learning how to Blog 10 - Zac Stemer and Jordan Stemercook. This was sheer genius by the event organizers to add these kids so they could highlight this worthy organization! Of the 50 world-renowned chefs invited to this event, After School Matters was the only teen initiative asked to participate. The event was emceed for the second year by Blog 11 - Elena Samokhina and magical friendWindy City Live” hosts Valerie Warner and Ryan Chiaverini. When I interviewed them for Watch312.com, they were so excited about expanding to the weekend, with a Sunday edition coming soon. Ryan jokingly said, “You will be sick of us soon like my parents.” They are too cute for words, as we Blog 12 - Susan and John Collettiall know! Corri McFadden, glam e-Drop Off founder and star of VH1’s “House of Consignment,” and Donald Storino, principal and co-founder of the government affairs firm Fidelity Consulting Group, served as co-chairs. This Blog 13 - DJ Rock Cityevent benefitted Chicago Gateway Green, which was founded by Donald DePorter in 1986. His son, Grant DePorter, President of Harry Caray’s Restaurant Group and Chairman of Gateway Green, carries on his father’s tradition in grand style. “As Gateway Green’s Blog 14signature fundraising event, the Green Tie Ball not only raises our mission but also serves as the catalyst for our ongoing beautification programs, including the Expressway Partnership, for which proceeds from this year’s gala will be directed.” The night also Blog 15included top notch dance music from deejays Justin Jacobson (founder and impresario of Platinum Events), Rock City and former Fall Out Boy bassist and half of the Black Cards duo, Pete Wentz. He showed up on the green carpet around 9:45 p.m. with gorgeous arm candy, Meagan Camper. My friend and celebrity stylist Eric Himel styled them both to perfection saying, “For
Co-chair Corri McFadden and friendPete, I wanted to do something different other than rocker attire.” Wentz was decked out in a fabulous forest green suit from Oak Street’s SuitSupply with a Blog 17 - Agnes Miles and Catie Keoghbow tie. When I asked him how he liked his outfit, he said, “I feel a little Farrakhan-ish but that’s okay, I'm a fan.” He was dancing and tweeting pics of the crowd as he deejayed. So cute! Meagan was in a sleek black dress from Top Shop with green Alexis Bittar earrings. Such a stylish pair! I loved Eric’s Blog 18outfit, too, that featured a green skull necklace on a leather cord from Beatnik's, a great store in Lakeview. Entertainment included live performances from Chicago cover bands Dr. Bombay Blog 19 - Brenda Arelano and Lisa Apratiand South of 80. Co-host Ryan Chiaverini thrilled the crowd when he got onstage to sing his now signature song, “Sweet Home Alabama.” The Rivers Casino tent featured craps, blackjack and roulette. There was also a Red Moon bubble-blowing, mobile DJ, Blog 20 - Charitable gambling courtesy of Rivers Casinoan Office Max photo booth filled with “Alice in Wonderland” props and “Hawk Man,” who hovered over the crowd on a 20-foot crane flapping his massive, feathered wings (also from Red Moon). Partygoers happily fell right down the Blog 21 - “Hawk Man” from Red Moon Theater Companyrabbit hole at this party! Executive producer for this magical night was “The Food Dude,” David Lissner, who is also a board member of Chicago Gateway Green. This magical night raised $450K to benefit Chicago Gateway Green. (Photos by Mila Samokhina and Steve Starr…to see other photos in my Chicago Tribune column by Beth Rooney, please click here and to see all of the magic, WATCH my Watch312.com video right HERE!)

 

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Blog 1 - Brian Atwood with Heidi Klum and Rachel ZoeHandsome shoe god Brian Atwood celebrated his new campaign and first flagship store at 655 Madison Avenue in New York with a star-filled celebration at the Four Seasons Restaurant on Wednesday, September 5th. More than 700 guests mixed Blog 2 - Proud mom Dusty congratulates Brianwith A-list celebs as DJ Mick Boogie played hot mixes but nothing could be hotter than the sky high heels so coveted around the globe by this charming designer who is adored by all. Since its 2001 debut, the Brian Atwood Collection has instilled shoe lust in a legion of fans for its infusion of glamour, exquisite Blog 3 - Kim Kardashian with Brian Atwoodcraftsmanship, hyperluxe design and attention to detail. His award-winning styles have earned him the CDA Swarovski Perry Ellis Award for Best Accessory Design and the 2010 Footwear News Designer of the Year Award. His first global campaign this past summer, a print campaign and Blog 4 - Handsome life partners Dr. Jake Deutsch and Briancompanion fashion film tell the story of the modern woman's desire for fantasy and control. The new fall print and video campaign were shot together in London by Mert & Marcus with creative direction by Giovanni Bianco and feature supermodel Candice Swanepoel. The fashion film, The Sex is in the Heel video series, is a voyeuristic flashback by a mysterious seductress reliving the Blog 5 - Toni Canada, Dusty Stemer, cute friend and Jordan Stemerprevious night's fantasy and will be a part of the film section on the newly redesigned website. I imagine this is exactly how women feel after a night of wearing a pair of Brian Atwoods! In honor of the evening, DeLeon Tequila presented four signature cocktails: Maniac, The Sex Blog 7 - Heidi Klum having fun with Brian!is in the Heel, Midnight Purple and The Atwood. Ahhhhhh, so cute! Guests seen at the celebration included Heidi Klum, Rachel Zoe, Kim Kardashian, Rachel Roy, Ryan Lochte, Paris Hilton, Nicky Hilton, Nate Berkus, Hannah Bronfman, Estelle, Gabrielle Union, Katie Lee, Candice Swanepoel, Giovanni Bianco, Kelly Killoren Bensimon, proud parents Yolanda (Dusty) and Dr. Alex Stemer, Blog 6 - Zak Stemer, Ryan Lochte, Stephanie WeissAbby and Dr. Jim Lipton, Toni and Rick Canada, Nina Mariano, beautiful sister Jordan Stemer and Jackson Miranda, darling brother Zack Stemer, longtime friend milliner Loreta Corsetti, Peter Kousothanos, Nina Aversa, Stephanie Weiss, Andi Laidlaw, Cameron Laidlaw, Jerimiah and Brian's handsome husband, Dr. Jake Deutsch. It was a joy-filled affair filled with beautiful people. Long may you reign, Shoe God Brian Atwood – can't wait for your first store opening at 655 Madison Avenue coming October 4th!!!

Blog 1I love TCW Magazine and I’m so thrilled to be celebrating their 30th
anniversary with them on October 30th with a party benefitting 30 charities in town that assist women and children in Blog 2need! Leave it to Sherren Leigh to come up with this clever idea for her party which will also include a silent auction called Pumpkins on Parade. Faux “funkin” pumpkins will be decorated by local “celebrities” to be auctioned off.  I must say she corralled me for this funkin decorating and I tried but had to relinquish my duties to my dear friend (and crafty Blog 3 - Tissy Eggleston, my “Funkin” carving savior!genius), Tissy Eggleston. So, even though I will have a pumpkin entered, just know it was a collaborative effort! LOL! There will also be an open bar, food stations, a live band with guests encouraged to wear costumes. Tickets are $150 and I know this will be ONE event you shouldn’t miss! Happy birthday, TCW!

Kathleen HensonPR News recently awarded a BIG honor to Chicago’s own Kathleen Henson and her creative Henson Consulting firm with National Small PR Firm of the Year! They also won nationally for best Anniversary Campaign for 373141_60075977775_1321684491_nLettuce Entertain You’s 40th anniversary last summer. Kathleen started her firm 12 years ago in her basement with just a laptop, a phone and a rolodex after her first child, Emily (she now has FIVE!) was only nine months old! I can’t wait to see where this dynamic redhead with a heart of gold flies to next! Congrats to you KH and to Henson Consulting on all of your great work!

 

Blog 1 - Christy Cressey, host MK Pritzker and friendA venerable who’s who of Chicago traveled north to the private 230-acre Evergreen Farm owned by JB and MK Pritzker on Saturday, September 6th, to witness one of the Midwest’s most esteemed equestrian events, the Evergreen Invitational. Hosted by MK and The Women’s Board of Northwestern Memorial Hospital and Blog 2 - Neal Zucker, Nora Daley and Sean conroypresented by Northern Trust, this fourth biennial equestrian charity exclusive “by-invite-only” event attracted more than 600 guests who came to support the elegant sport and witness nationally and internationally ranked riders compete. More than $1.1 million was raised from this year’s event with proceeds benefitting under-funded women’s health programs at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. To Blog 3 - Laura Linback on Whittadate, the Evergreen Invitational has raised more than $4 million. The $25K Junior/Amateur Owner Classic kicked Blog 4 - Ricky, Estelle and Agatha Walgreenoff the event with Meagan Nusz winning on horse, Vesuvius. The $75K Grand Prix blue ribbon went to Laura Linback and horse Whittaker MVNZ. In between the two events, hundreds of guests were spotting enjoying the mild weather and admiring some of the exquisite Graff jewels on display or lusting after a number of Ferraris dotting the property Blog 5 - Julie Latsko, Traci and Mario Tricoci and family(which were available for test drives courtesy of Lake Forest Sportscars). A promenade of shops featured merchandise from Lee Allison Company, Escada, Fabbri Furs, Chicago Luxury Beds and Blog 6 - Cassie Gavin, Blair Spencer and Julie Selakovichdozens more. A lavish buffet lunch was catered by beloved George Jewell of George Jewell Catering. Guests seen on the scene included Mimi Olson (President of the WB of Northwestern), co-chairs Joan Moore and Christy Blog 7 - Sargent familyCressey, Meredith Wood-Prince, Nora Daley with husband Sean Conroy, Mich Mag’s J.P. Anderson and Dan Uslan, Neal Zucker, Leslie Hindman and Tempel Smith, Traci and Mario Tricoci, Jr. Blog 8and family, Estelle Walgreen, Quintin Primo, Mayari Pritzker, Susan and Joe Ahern, Dr. Kris and Tricia Rooney Alden, Thea Robinson, Dean Harrison, Curt Bailey, host JB Pritzker and Dan UslanJulie Selakovich, Curt Bailey, Christy Cressey, Barbara Bluhm-Kaul, Cassie Gavin, Blair Spencer, Bethany Paris, Linda Yu and Stuart Ellison, Susie and Walter Jaco
bson, Lisa and Jeffrey Aronin, Tom Cole, Denise and Adam Hoeflich and Stephen and Diane Falk. (Photos by Mariah Smith…to view more pics, please click here!)

 
Blog 1 - Hostess Shirley Ryan, Kim White (WB President), Kathleen Carbonara (Ball Co-Chair)Members of the Field Museum Women’s Board are immersing themselves in Indian culture as they prepare for the annual gala on October 13th, “The Maharaja Ball.” The gala, co-chaired by Kathleen Blog 2 - Marty Peterson, Anupy Singla, Kim White and Sandy DeromediCarbonara and Susan Faurot, will celebrate the museum’s opening of “Maharaja: The Splendor of India’s Royal Courts” exhibit coming in November. The exhibit is organized by the Victoria & Blog 3 - Kim White and Renee CrownAlbert Museum in London. The first of two high profile kick-off events was hosted by Patrick and Shirley Ryan at their Winnetka home with more than 50 women in attendance for the annual invitation stuffing party,
Blog 4 - Peggy Snorf, Susan McBride, Betsy Ahearne, Leslie Zentner and Marty Peterson“House in the Garden.” The second event was hosted by bestselling Indian cookbook author and former Chicago TV reporter Anupy Singla, who gave a cooking demo and prepared an Indian lunch for the Women’s Board. She schooled the Blog 5 - Ball co-chairs Kathleen Carbonara and Susan Faurot with Anupy SinglaBoard in the fine points of Indian cuisine and cooked recipes from her newest cookbook, “Vegan Indian Cooking.” A trip along Blog 6 - Stuffing invites at the Ryans'Devon Avenue for sari shopping was included! This gala is sure to be a sellout so please click here for tickets and more info. Congrats to all of the hardworking Women’s Board members!

PrimoPrimo Classico d’Italia, a benefit for the Primo Center, will take place at Diane and Quintin Primo’s home in Lake Forest on Sunday, September 30th between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. There will be new and vintage Ferraris along with beautiful models and great Italian food prepared and donated by leading Chicago restaurants such as Pelago, Prosecco, Tocco, Florentine, Volare and Fred’s. Proceeds from this event will directly benefit homeless women and children who rely on the services of the Primo Center. For tickets and more info, please click here!

Sweet Honey in the RockWhat do you get when you combine a Grammy Award-winning female a cappella group with a youth orchestra ensemble led by President Obama’s first nominee to the National Council of the Arts? I would call it one magnificent night Sphinx Virtuosiin Chicago at the Harris Theater! On Thursday, October 4th only, they will debut a performance by Sphinx Virtuosi with Sweet Honey in the Rock and the Chicago Children’s Choir with a premiere of its new work, Affirmations for a New World. The performance begins at 7:30 p.m. and tickets are only $10 to $35! For tickets and more information, please visit www.harristheaterofchicago.org.

Gold coast fashion show imageThe 57th Gold Coast Fashion Award show, the signature fundraising event of The Children’s Service Board, an affiliated organization of Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, will be at the Hilton Chicago, located at 720 S. Michigan, on Friday afternoon, September 28th beginning at 11 a.m. with a cocktail reception. Emerging designers will compete for the coveted Gold Coast Fashion Award with audience members casting their votes. Last year’s winner, Fabiola Arias, will open the show with her fall Fabiola+Arias+Fabiola+Arias+Backstage+Fall+vvtEcXzRq9Glcollection and designers Lyn Devon, Tess Giberson, Wes Gordon, Stacy Lomnan, Misha Nonoo, Rolando Santana, Verlaine and Rubin Singer will be competing for the 2012 award.  Retail partners this year include Chalk, Mark Shale, McElroy Furs, Neiman Marcus, Perchance, Frances Heffernan and Saks Fifth Avenue. David Yurman will once again host the Grand Staircase entrance during the cocktail hour with displays of fabulous jewelry. Tickets begin at $200 and can be purchased by visiting www.gcfas.com.
 
Latino Fashion Week Save the DateNow in its sixth year, Latino Fashion Week will premier its 2012 tour with the theme “Images of Fashion.” Co-founded by Arabel Rosales and Cesar Rolon, Jr., the tour will include Dallas, Chicago and Miami, and will honor photographers and videographers involved in the exhibition. Highlighted in the Chicago exhibit is globally renowned fashion photographer, Daniel Garriga. This five-day event will include runway shows, celebrity appearances, VIP receptions, a one-day Fashion Lounge and Expo, and much more! The Kick-Off event, “Lights, Camera, Fashion: A Red Carpet Media Party,” will be at Zhou B Art Center, located at 1029 W. 35th St. on Tuesday, October 9th beginning at 5:30 p.m. (For tickets and more info, please call 773.865.7313 or 773.251.3329.
 
Tart-it-up-eric-lanard-e1343125285112And now someone you should know! London-based Chef Eric Lanlard is coming to the Windy City on Tuesday, October 30th, to celebrate the launch of his latest book, “Tart it Up!”(Don’t you just love this title!?) Eric is a master patissier and two-time winner of the prestigious Continental Patissier of the Year at the British Baking Jesus Salguiero, Chef Eric Lanlard and Naushab AhmedAwards. Having trained in France, Eric moved to London where he ran the patisserie business for Albert and Michel Roux. For the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, he was commissioned to create a recipe (The Elizabeth Sponge) for the celebration! Eric has also appeared in a number of TV series, including top Brit hit, “Glamour Puds,” that have helped him build a global fan base. He’s charming and witty with four books under his belt (so far): “Master Cakes,” “Cox,” ElizabethCake260Cookies & Cakes,” “Cake Boy” and his latest, “Tart it Up!” Hosted by Jean Zivkovic and Don Newcomb, a champagne reception (with delicious gourmet tastings) is planned at the Ritz Carlton Club (located at 160 E. Pearson) on October 30th. So please come meet my “sweet” friend and "Tart It Up!" (For reservations – $99 – please call 312.777.1090.)
 
StarvingArtistInvitationFinal_emailThe Chicago Artists' Coalition presents its Starving Artist benefit on Saturday, October 6th at 217 N. Carpenter St. beginning at 7 p.m. Artists and chefs will be paired to inspire a dish that’s served at the event and a piece of artwork that results will be auctioned off. There will be a charcuterie battle and food installations. Participants will include food preservationist Tara Lane, artists Laura Letinsky, Jeanne Dunning, Erik Peterson, Jenny Kendler and chefs Jared Van Camp, Erling Wu-Bower and Beverly Kim. For tickets (beginning at $150), please visit www.2012starvingartist.com
 
Blog 1 - Keynote speakers Jan Anne Dubin and Tribune’s Joycelyn WinneckeThe University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business recently hosted a day-long seminar series that included a fascinating personal branding segment with keynote speakers Jan Anne Dubin (principal of Jan Anne Dubin Consulting) and Joycelyn Winnecke (Chicago Tribune vice president and Blog 2 - New Sunday Tribune Candid Candace format!associate editor). I was even more thrilled when she included me as a “Personal Branding Pro” along with Christie Hefner, Amy Guth, Cheryle Jackson, Sherren Leigh, Dr. Lauren Streicher, Cheryl Pearson-McNeil, Jeanne Gang, Ron Culp and Bridget Brennan. It was an honor to be included and introduced to the standing room only crowd! Congrats to Jan and Joyce on a thrilling talk! And speaking of the Chicago Tribune, I hope you enjoyed the new format for my Sunday Candid Candace column! 🙂
 
Muttstrut2012The 9th Annual Chicago Canine Rescue (CCR) Mutt Strutt is set for Saturday, September 29th. Dog lovers and their four-legged friends are invited for a 1.5-mile walk followed by a block party with food, entertainment and more! NBC 5’s Kye Martin will be the celebrity emcee of the event. (For more info, please visit www.chicagocaninerescue.org.)

Dr. Sandy GoldbergThe 8th Annual Silver Lining Event will be held on Saturday, October 6th, at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place, located at 2233 S. Martin Luther King Dr., beginning at 6:30 p.m. This black tie event will be held in the Regency Ballroom and will present darling Sonya Jackson with the EVY Award! Founded in 2002 by Dr. Sandy Goldberg in honor of her late mother, A Silver Lining Foundation provides cancer resource information and outreach as well as Sterling_eventproviding funding for free screening mammograms for uninsured and underinsured women and men at seven partner hospitals. Can’t wait to celebrate your honor Sonya for this great cause! (For tickets and more info, please click here.)
 
Whew, talk about an action packed month! I hope you’ve had a chance to enjoy some of these fun events or I hope I will see you at an upcoming one soon! Also, please follow me on Twitter (@CandidCandace) for breaking news from around this beautiful town!
 
Mable Buckner and husband James BucknerLove, as always,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com
 
P.S. Huge congrats to beautiful Mable Buckner, who has recently been promoted to President and CEO of the Streeterville Chamber of Commerce!!! They are SO lucky to have YOU, Mable! Congrats!

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THE ART OF HOME: A CREATIVE COLLABORATION BENEFITTING LAKESIDE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

…PLUS COSTUME BALL GLAMOUR, NEXT FASHION SHOW, FASHION FOCUS WEEK, HANDBAGS & HALOS, WEDDING CONGRATS AND SOMEONE YOU SHOULD KNOW!

Blog 1 - Melinda Jakovich, Lucien LaGrange, Karen Stephenson and Fred GebbiaThe Gala Art Benefit "Art of Home", supporting Lakeside Community Development, was held recently at the Zhou B Gallery and even though it was a miserable, rainy night, the crowd was Blog 2happy to be there to support this worthy cause. "Art of Home" celebrated the unique perspectives of more than 50 Chicago area artists who donated their work including Keiko Nemeth, Brigitte Wolf Salchow, Lynn Basa, Rine Boyer, Doug Frohman, Janet Krehbiel Blog 3 - Emcees Whitney Allen and Wayne JohnsonPierqacci, Eric Lee, Jorjet Harper, Carlos Deleon, Rosemary Fanti, Fred Gebbia, Herbert Migdoll, Tracey Posner and Kimberly Atwood to name a few. Executive Director Brian White said, “Lakeside operates from the belief that communities characterized by racial, Blog 4 - Models in Elda de la Rosa, Sabrina, Justyna, Janet and Lakeside’s Susan DeBeaubieneconomic, and cultural diversity are the ideal. We work in collaboration with a wide variety of community, civic, business and government groups to achieve our mission. A home is more than four walls and a roof. It’s where memories are created, Blog 5 - Mr. and Mrs. Tom Koczurdreams are formed and opportunities are achieved. Lakeside Community Development helps ensure all people have access to safe, decent and affordable housing. We would like to thank Mitch Obtsfeld of i4Design and Zhou B Art Center, Phillip Bernal of Bernal Design, and the
committee volunteers who made tonight’s event possible. For your support of Art of Home, we thank you!” It was a lively evening with entertainment by Jose “Papo” Santiago and the always vivacious, NBC-5's Whitney Allen (Weekends With Whitney), as co-Blog 7 - Lakeside’s Harman Gill and Saiema Syedemcee with Wayne Johnson (Wayne’s Weekend). There were delicious hors d’oeuvres from Food for Thought as well as sinful Molly’s cupcakes. The colorful, mixed media artwork filled every wall and included oil Blog 8 - Model Janet and David Strzepekon canvas, painted glass, ironwork, you name it. Master iron worker Fred Gebbia designed a unique table made from repurposed 19th century grillwork and the Joffrey Ballet’s official photographer, Herbert Migdoll, submitted a huge, 36” by 60” copper metallic and oil enamel silkscreen Blog 9 - Marco Foster and glam friendentitled “Copper Faun.” Lakeside is located in Rogers Park on Chicago’s Far North Side, from which the agency serves eight Chicago community areas and the near north suburbs. And not only do they provide housing opportunities for those in need, they also provide education, advocacy and condo board training. Congrats to all Blog 10 - Lakeside Executive Director Brian Whiteinvolved with this worthy organization! A special thanks to Phillip Bernal for getting me involved! And, by the way, if you haven’t had the honor of having Fred Gebbia do restoration or repair work for you, then you are Blog 11 - Melinda Jakovich and Lucien LaGrangemissing a BIG boat! Fred, the president of The Fence Doctor, is a genius at what he does and his celebrity and A-list clientele around town are proof positive that he is the go-to guy! (Additional photos by John Cotter…to view more event pics, please click here!)

Blog 1 - Bunky, Jamee Gregory and Bunky’s LadiesBunky Cushing did it again, as always: He seems to pull a rabbit out of his hat every single time in finding a fabulous guest speaker for his annual Handbags & Halos luncheon and this year was no exception! I’ve always admired this year’s featured speaker, Jamee Gregory. Over the years, I’ve read her Blog 2 - Nina Mariano, Robin Berger and Lynn McMahanname and seen her photos in almost every social magazine. She is a NY author, philanthropist and contributing editor of Architectural Digest. Bunky invited 150 friends this year Blog 3 - Gregg Zgonena and Michaela Parillowho turned out in force with gently used handbags to donate to Howard Brown Health Center for the 10th year. Every table was filled with familiar faces who listened in rapt attention as Jamee showed slides from Blog 4 - David Brandt, Jamee Gregory and Hazel Barrher most recent book, “New York Parties: Private Views.” The photos of social events and get-togethers on opulent grounds in the Hamptons or atop a NY building in some fabulous penthouse were breathtaking. She showed the party planning from beginning to end via her beautiful Blog 5 - Linda Heister and Betty Brownimages and they were so glamorous. Before her presentation, HBHC President and CEO Jamal Edward greeted the guests and explained the Center’s mission which is to eliminate Blog 6 - Ann Wallace and Sally Jo Morristhe disparities in health care experiences for members of the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered communities through research, education and provision of services that promote health and wellness. Bunky spoke passionately about how grateful he was for the support he’s received over the past 10 years and said, “If I could show you my heart, you would see that is overflowing with Blog 7 - Rochelle Trotter and Cheryl Bollingerappreciation for the love and support you’ve shown me.” Palmer House’s Executive Chef Stephen Henry, along with Pastry Chef Fabrice Bouet, created a sumptuous lunch that began Blog 8 - Designer John Ansehl and Dana Hokinwith butternut squash soup with grilled cinnamon apples followed by a pan seared chicken breast, apple bread pudding, tri-colored beets and grilled acorn squash. The dessert was a fall sampler of pumpkin pie, cranberry tarts and blackberry tarts. Bunky also thanked the "King of the Kingdom of Catering" David Brandt, Palmer House’s Director of Catering. Congrats to Bunky, his ladies and the Palmer House for another magical day of fun fundraising!

Blog 1 - Marcus and meWow, what a week of fashion we’ve had in Chicago beginning with the Kick-Off Party at PUBLIC Chicago for Fashion Focus, followed by the NEXT Fashion Chicago show at Blog 2 - Tracey Tarantino, Kiran Advani and Marsha BrennerGermania Place! I wish I could’ve attended every event last week but then I would be a mere shadow of myself by now. But I loved seeing photos from the various events like the four Blog 3 - Macy’s Andrea Schwartz (R) and designer Lara MillerMillennium Park tent shows, coordinated and directed by Kiran Advani, the fashion programming director for the Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture in partnership with the Chicago Dept. of Cultural Blog 4 - NEXT finaleAffairs and Special Events. She and her staff made sure that all ticket holders got seats this year as well as orchestrating a consistent $35 general admission price to make the events Blog 5 - Jim and Lakesha Rosemore accessible for everyone. I was thrilled to emcee NEXT Fashion Chicago, produced by Rose Mandel of Mandel Productions, along with NBC’s Marcus Riley. The event included designs from Elda de la Rosa, Fraley Le, Gary Gonzalez, Sahar Dada, Cleons, Hector-Javier MonArrez, Sujata Blog 6 - Mario Tricoci with model winnersGazder and Mira Couture along with boutiques Sofia, Cache, Furla and Bottega Contessa. A brilliant electric violin performance by Katarina Visnevska accompanied one of the runway walks. (To view the event on Watch312.com, please click on the video below!) That same Blog 7 - Wedding gown by Mira Coutureevening, designer Anna Fong presented her Fall/Winter collections at the Blackstone Hotel and on Tuesday night, Macy’s Fashion Incubator designers presented their collections in the tent in Millennium Park. Wednesday, “Dress Code” debuted at the Chicago History Blog 8 - Ryan Beshel, Katie and Jason McLenaghanMuseum showcasing the designs of fashion students from Columbia College and Mario Tricoci’s “Make Me a Model” showed the designs of Michelle Tan in the tent. The runway competition Blog 9 - Macy’s design by Miriam Cecilia Carlsonwas so intense that Mario chose two aspiring models as the winners – Mercedes Johnson of Chicago and Juni Park o
f Skokie. (Finalists included Lynn Tatge, Alexandra Cangelosi and Zachary Ross.) On Thursday, Conscious Living TV presented the VERT Couture Eco-Fashion Show & Blog 10Benefit which featured Spring/Summer 2012 eco-collections of the following lines: Richard Dayhoff, Brenda Abdullah, Heart, Dollparts, Rosina Mae eco-swimwear, Victoria Larkin, Lauren Lein, Silk Utopia and Mohop Shoes. Friday night brought “The Art of Fashion 2011,” presented by StyleChicago.com. This show Blog 11 - Macy’s finalefeatured Spring 2012 collections of accomplished Chicago designers and fashion lines that included Nade Baer, Nora del Busto, Lara Miller, Borris Powell, Blog 12 - Design by Sahar DadaEva Pazola, RUCH and Squasht by Les among others. ZZZAZZ Productions’ Tracey Tarantino produced this lavish show. Besides the tent events, there Blog 13 - With co-emcee Marcus Rileywere more than 30 other trunk shows, seminars, shopping events and parties throughout the week. Chicago – a second city? I think NOT! Congrats to all involved who make this such an eventful week in fashion for the Windy City! (Photos by Cindy Barrymore and Steve Starr.)

Watch live streaming video from watch312 at livestream.com

Blog 1 - Co-chair Robin Berger (r) having fun with friendsAnd the fashion didn’t stop here! The 2011 Costume Ball celebrated the opening exhibit of Charles James: Genius Deconstructed, with its first black tie ball in over ten years!  Launched in the ‘70s, the Costume Blog 2 - Designer Ralph Rucci with his Award of ExcellenceCouncil hosted the Donor’s Ball to help acquire new garments for the Museum’s costume collection. This year’s black tie affair, expertly co-chaired by Robin Loewenberg Berger, Catherine Eberle and Lawrie Weed, included a sit-down dinner, auction and exhibition preview at the Chicago History Museum. The evening’s Honorary Chair was Helen Harvey Mills, whose mother was a muse of Charles James. The Blog 3 - Emcee Bill Zwecker with Nena Ivon, Pres. of Costume Councilevent also honored designer Ralph Rucci (Chado Ralph Rucci) with its Award for Design Excellence. Bill Zwecker and Kathy Brock emceed the event and Nena Ivon, president of the Blog 4 - Alexis and Linda Johnson Rice with Desiree RogersCostume Council, also spoke. Auction co-chairs Melinda Turitz and Alicia Waters did a great job of assembling a potpourri of fashionable items donated by Jimmy Choo, Ferragamo, Alexis Bittar and Kimberly McDonald among other offerings. Raffle items included fine jewelry from Pomellato Blog 5and a Hermes Birkin bag! Funds raised from this event enable the Chicago History Museum to continue to enhance the public’s understanding of Charles James and provide thoughtful insight into the Museum’s costume collection. Congrats to Curator Tim Long on an outstanding job! (To view ALL of the event pics by Cindy Barrymore, please click here!)

Blog 1 - Diana OzimekDiana Ozimek is someone you should know. She is a weekly volunteer for PAWS (Pets are Worth Saving), taking their more active dogs on runs as well as fostering puppies and kittens over Blog 2the past year…and adopting a few along the way! She owns and runs several women’s fitness camps called Windy City Boot Camp. Diana has been involved in the fitness industry for 17 years, building on exercise as Blog 3 - Working on abs at Montrose Beacha hobby and turning it into a lifestyle and career. Diana earned her B.S. in sports medicine for athletic training at the University of Akron and a masters of arts in education from the Blog 4 - Lovable pets from PAWSUniversity of Phoenix. She is AFAA-certified in group exercise, trained in Yoga Fit as well as a NESTA-certified Adventure Boot Camp instructor. Diana says, “Windy City Adventure Boot Camp is perfect for EVERY woman. If you are a busy mother or busy at the office, you can still keep your fitness a priority everyday with this early morning camp!” Now, Blog 5 - Squats at Wrightwood camp, ouch!here’s the good part: Diana has offered to donate $500 to PAWS for every camp Blog 6 - Beach chariots, yikes!that has 40 women register. Her first Fit 2 Fund camp starts October 31st so, if you’re interested in fitness and have plans to start a program, please consider this one! It will not only be beneficial to YOU but will help our furry friends, too!!!

Newlyweds Bob and Kim MillsFinally, a huge congrats to the Illinois Center for Broadcasting’s president Robert Mills and the beautiful Kim Venezia on their recent wedding in Florida! A big New Year’s celebration is planned and hopefully, Candid Candace will be there to toast them! Have a great week in our great city and I hope to “see” you here same time next week!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

Mich Mag shoot P1000729P.S. What a thrill it was to be in a Michigan Avenue Magazine fashion shoot! The models were gorgeous (of course), the clothing selections were to die for and the accessories and jewelry made me swoon! Congrats to Susanna Negovan and Mich Mag for what I’m sure will be a knockout holiday feature. Thanks for including me! 🙂

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