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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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FLEUROTICA: GARFIELD PARK CONSERVATORY’S FLOWER-FILLED & FASHIONABLE FUNDRAISER

…PLUS ALLIUM’S OPENING (REALLY THIS TIME, NO KIDDING!), JOFFREY’S GRAND GALA, KELSEY GRAMMER’S HUGO HONOR, BEBE’S FIRST BRIDAL SHOP, EVENING IN BLOOM, BIRTHDAY SHOUT-OUTS, COMMON THREADS’ COME PAINT IT BLACK TIE GALA, “ROUTE 66” FLOWER POWER, MERCHANDISE MART’S GLOBAL ANTIQUE SHOW AND TWO NEW WATCH312.COM VIDEOS!
 
Blog 1 - Event Chair Richard Wester, GPC Alliance President Eunita Rushing and emcee LeeAnn TrotterIf you missed this year’s fourth annual Fleurotica Fashion Show, please put it on your calendars NOW for next year! I’ve never seen anything quite like this show which benefitted Garfield Park Conservatory with all of the designs created from Blog 2flowers, leaves, moss and any other type of plant material imaginable. The backstage action was almost as exciting as the runway with designers scrambling to get the last petal glued on before the show began. I loved seeing the stunning wedding gown floating down the runway by Flower Petal. The Virgin Mary was certainly a show-stopper too with the model Blog 3 - Winning designer, Lance Larsenclasping her hands in prayer before she walked off the stage. And the tulip skirt was too darling for words by Whole Food Market South Loop. But I’m getting ahead of myself…the cocktail reception was delightful, too, with some of the best food tastings I’ve sampled in a long, long time. Marcello’s served turkey, Blog 4 - Judges Dennis Remer and Borris Powell having fun!artichoke and sun-dried tomato paninis. Phil Stefani’s was dishing out delicious Korean noodles with bok choy and mushrooms in a soy-ginger sauce. Kenmare Catering couldn’t keep the blue shrimp coming fast enough! One of the highlights was Goose Island’s Blog 5 - Designer Peach Carrclever food and beer pairings: Pulled pork was infused with their latest brew called Pepe Nero and salmon was soaked in Sofie beer. Beyond Events was serving six kinds of bruschetta and Wishbone Restaurant had a line every time I looked so I’m not sure what they were serving! A five-piece band, Visions, played while guests perused the extensive silent auction Blog 6 - Event Creative’s Sean Cannon (2nd from R) and friendsofferings. Soon, we were all summoned to the second level of Venue One where the show was about to begin. Participating designers included Flower Child, A Stem Above, Zuzu’s Petals, Ildiko Blog 7 - Iron Florist competitors Peter Vrotsos and Matt BarrettPhillips Designs, Natural Beauties Florals, Luxe Floral Chicago, Flower Petal, Anna Held, Scarlet Petal, Blumgarten & Co., Stem Line, Green Jean’s and Whole Foods Market South Loop. Even real life fashion designer Peach Carr showed a stunning creation titled “Driving Miss Daisy” to wild applause, with styling and makeup by AJ’s Salon (who was there filming his Blog 8Chicagolicious” reality show). Judging was difficult with all of the breathtaking designs but Borris P
owell, Dennis Remer, Christy Webby
and Adam Schwerner seemed to have a lot of fun doing it and awarded “Best in Show” to Blumgarten & Blog 9Co.’s Lance Larsen. Darling LeeAnn Trotter (NBC 5 entertainment reporter) returned as emcee this year and did a great job, of course! Who doesn’t love LeeAnn?! She introduced the president of Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance, Eunita Rushing, who reminded us that all proceeds from this event will help to rebuild the roof of the Conservatory which was Blog 10 - Nena Ivon (R) and frienddamaged by a freak hailstorm last summer. (Sixty percent of the roof was destroyed in the Fern Room, Show House and Desert House.) There was also a live auction that included a Jamaican getaway that sold for $2,500, a Chicago Stay-Cation that sold for $1,750, and a Taste of Chicago package and a yacht experience that included dinner for eight – all included in the more than $80,000 that was raised for the Conservatory. Opened in 1908 and designed by noted landscape architect Jens Jensen, the Garfield Park Conservatory is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Please see my fun Watch312.com video below and to see ALL event photos by Caitlin Saville Collins, please click here! (For more info, please visit www.garfieldconcervatory.org.)

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Blog 1 - Bill Kurtis, Jeff Garlin, Donna LaPietraThe recent grand opening party for the new Allium restaurant attracted an overflow crowd of 600 foodies and fashionistas to the seventh floor of the Four Seasons recently. Host for the night was funnyman Jeff Garlin (see our Blog 2 - Host Vince Anzalone, Erica Bethe Levin, Jessica Zweig and friendinterview on Watch312.com below). This American restaurant with a farm-to-table menu is by Chef Kevin Hickey whose inspiration was his multi-cultural neighborhood in Chicago where he grew up. Blog 3 - Jesus Salguiero and Linda O’KeefeThe menu features Tallgrass beef (in a brilliant collaboration with CBS’ Bill Kurtis), game bird sausage, suckling pig flat bread, Wagyu beef short-rib sliders, bison tartare, Chicago-style hotdogs, Wisconsin walleye, chorizo cheese chips, oysters, lamb neck Blog 4 - Lakesha and Jim Rose with Linda O’Keefeagnolotti and crab fritters to name just a few of the delicious offerings. Allium, a name derived from Latin origins, meaning “onion,” pays homage to Chicago whose name comes from the Native American “Shikaakwa” or “wild onion.” The restaurant’s beverage program also echoes the restaurant’s commitment to American artisan producers. The beer list is strictly Midwestern, including the limited-release Allium Blog 5 - With Vince Anzalone, Vonita Reescer, Diana Palomar and Lonnie RodriguezRoseus, a Belgian red ale created by Chef Hickey and Goose Island’s head brewer, Jared Rouben. The entire renovation of the Four Seasons by Brayton Hughes is one of relaxed elegance with artwork fit for a Blog 6 - Chef Kevin Hickey and host Jeff Garlinmuseum including several Warhols. It’s a must-go! I was proud to be a co-host along with Monika Dixon, Toni Canada, Alexis Cozzini, Vince Anzalone, Lonnie Rodriguez, Jerry Azumah and Susanna Negovan. I hope you enjoy my Watch312.com video of this fabulous night in Chicago! (For more info, please visit www.alliumchicago.com and to see ALL event photos, please click here!)

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Blog 1I am so excited to share the news about this year’s Joffrey Ballet Celebration Gala on Sunday, May 6th at the historic Palmer House Hilton, located at17 E. Monroe. This year’s event will be a tribute Blog 2to the Joffrey’s dynamic Women’s Board who have raised a staggering $16 million in ten years for the Joffrey, making them the largest single contributor to this organization! The night will begin with a special performance at the Auditorium Theatre beginning promptly at 6:30 p.m. Afterwards, trolleys will whisk guests to the Palmer House where a cocktail reception will begin in the State Ballroom around 7:30 p.m. The Rich Daniels Orchestra will provide elegant background music to start our evening off in style. A special commemorative tribute video will be presented by co-chair Donna LaPietra of Kurtis Productions with a very clever surprise thrown in. The Arpino Angel Awards will be given to the Blog 3producers of the film “Joffrey: Mavericks of American Dance” and they include Jay Alix, Una Jackman and Erica and Harold Ramis. And for the first time, we are partnering with the Joffrey Auxiliary Board for an exciting “Grand Finale” party in the Empire Room. For this part of the evening (starting at 8 p.m.), tickets will be sold online ($95) and also sold at the entrance ($110) and will include a DJ, fun food, raffle prizes and more.  If you buy your ticket for the Grand Finale party online, you can also see the performance! I hope I will see ALL of you there! For Gala tickets/info and Grand Finale tickets/info, please click here! (I am thrilled to be a chair along with Helen Melchior. Our co-chairs are Joan Colmar, Mary Jo Basler, Donna LaPietra, Leslie Hindman, Jan Melk, Mary Pat Burns, Victoria Holdren, Pamella Roland DeVos, Nancy Gottlieb Bauer, Liz Sharp, Kate Benson and Anne Kaplan.)
 
Blog 1 - Days of Our Lives cast Bill and Susan Hayes, Matthew AshfordChicago’s springtime coming out party, “An Evening in Bloom,” previewed at the Chicago Flower & Garden Show on March 9th at Navy Pier. Twenty-five stylized gardens were featured this year with proceeds benefitting Chicago Gateway Green and Friends Blog 2 - CFGS Tony Abruscato and Jenny Pickfordof the Parks. In keeping with this night’s theme, which reflected the influence of fashion and design in floral, plant and landscape creations, models strolled through the show wearing new creations by local young designers from the Chicago Fashion Incubator. Cast members from the NBC daytime drama “Days of Our Lives” had a featured garden in the show and greeted guests as they sampled fine Blog 3wines and hors d’oeuvres from Harry Caray’s, Dirk’s Fish and Gourmet Shop and Cyrano’s Bistrot Wine Bar, among others. Highlights from this year’s show featured a White House vegetable garden and a lifestyle rooftop garden. Co-chairs for this night were Lee and Sandy Golub. If you missed this delightful show that serves as our harbinger of spring, be sure to mark your calendars for next year!
 
Bebe P1030287Don’t miss bebe’s first bridal salon in the U.S. at 109 E. Oak St.! Designer Rami Kashou (a “Project Runway” finalist and “All-Star” contestant) created a collection that Rami Kashoucovers all price points and is modern, glamorous and feminine. His exquisite couture styling uses luxurious fabrics such as silk taffeta, silk stain, charmeuse, georgette, organza and chiffon to offer something for even the most finicky bride-to-be! I interviewed him for an upcoming new segment on Watch312.com called “Candid Candace Recommends” and you will soon see why! (I will also be offering a $150 gift certificate for our Watch312 VIP Club in the segment so please look for it!) 🙂

Dt_common_streams_StreamServerCinema/Chicago and the Chicago International Film Festival will present actor Kelsey Grammer, currently starring in STARZ’ hit show, “Boss,” with the Career Achievement Award at the 48th Hugo Television Awards Ceremony on April 19th at the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel Chicago. Hosts will be Val Warner and Ryan Chiaverini of "Windy City Live." Best known for his award-winning role as Dr. Frasier Crane, among countless other roles, the evening’s tribute to actor/producer/director Kelsey Film Fest Founder Michael Kutza (photo by Patrick McDonald)Grammer will include highlights from his illustrious television career in addition to the Career Achievement Award presentation. Grammer has won four Emmys, two Golden Globes, a SAG Award, an unparalleled 16 Emmy nominations, eight Golden Globe nominations, 16 SAG nominations and NOW a Hugo! Awards will also be presented to the year’s winning television commercials and productions, as well as the Commitment to Excellence Award to OPTIMUS. Tickets are $100 and can be purchased at www.chicagofilmfestival.com or by calling 312-683-0121.

Blog 1Come Paint it Black Tie” on Thursday, May 3rd, for Common Threads' elegant benefit as they merge classic rock ‘n’ roll vibes (music by JC Brooks and the Uptown Sound) with an upscale black-tie dinner created by some of the nation's finest celebrity chefs. Culinary rock star chefs Jose Blog 3 - Jesus, Linda and ArtGarces, Bill Telepan, Paul Kahan, Marc Vetri, Jared Van Camp and Michael Laiskonis will serve an iconic menu at Chicago’s newest hotspot, Nellcôte, located at 833 W. Randolph. Chef Jared Van Camp and his Element Collective team created Nellcôte, a mirror of Villa Nellcôte, an ornate 16-room mansion on the waterfront of Ville Franche-sur-Mer in the Côte d'Azur region of southern France. The evening’s theme originated from the Rolling Blog 2Stones album “Exile on Main Street,” which was recorded at the villa during the summer of 1971. Come join CT’s Chef Art Smith and Jesus Salguiero along with Executive Director Linda O’Keefe as they take you on another exciting culinary journey to benefit Common Threads! (For more info and tickets, please click here!)

Antique show invite1The International Antiques Fair is coming back to town on April 27th with more than 100 dealers from around the world! The Private Preview Party will kick-off this event which runs through April 30th at the Merchandise Mart from 5:30 to 8 p.m. The event will benefit the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago and will feature live music, refreshments and early bird shopping. For more info and tickets, please click here.

Screen%20shot%202011-12-20%20at%2011.53.01%20AMThe Garden Guild of Winnetka will host “Route 66 – A Garden Club of America Flower Show” on May 16th and 17th.  The show will interpret this iconic piece of American history with floral designs, horticulture and photography. More than 75 entries from the Garden Guild and other GCA clubs will incorporate a theme of the historic Route 66 highway, also known as America’s Main Street. Built in the late 1920’s, this highway stretched from downtown Chicago more than 2,000 miles westward to California. To “get your kicks,” please click here.

Blog 1 - Birthday boy Paul IaconoAnd now for some birthday wishes! Man-about-town with a real job, Paul Iacono, celebrated his birthday on March 29th, with an intimate dinner for friends at RPM Italian Blog 2 - Jennifer Sutton, Paul and Rachel SchwanzRestaurant. Guest Rachel Schwanz of The Entertaining Company did an outstanding job of decorating the private room with beautiful flowers and candlelight much to the delight of Blog 3 - Monika Dixon, Saira Cooper and Rhonda SandersonGayle and Jim Anthony, Saira and Chris Cooper, Rhonda Sanderson (who was also celebrating a birthday), William Holdeman, Jennifer Sutton, Cindy Burns, Paul’s sweet dad Ralph Iacono, Monika and Geoff Dixon, Eva Pawlus, Diana Iacono and Cadey and Andrew Hershoff. May it never end, Paul! 🙂 (To see ALL party pics, please click here!)

Hedwig and Bob at BDAnother birthday shout-out goes to the ageless, beloved and beautiful Hedwig Golant! Her unique party was held at Ten Pin, where guests tested their bowling skills…some were good, some not so good but everyone had a great time! Love you, Hedwig!

I’m begging you, PLEASE send me to All-Stars!Dear friend and all-around terrific designer, Peach Carr, needs your help! Please tweet and Facebook your friends and ask them to help make her a “Project Runway All-Star” for next season. She sure deserves it! Please vote here, it’s so easy!

WHEW, that’s a lot of news this week! I hope you’re all enjoying the first signs of spring and that you will visit me again next week!

Love,
Candace
Candace@CandidCandace.com

GocaP.S. Don’t miss designers Omar Villalobos and Gordana Rasic’s fall/winter fashion show, “The Elegance of Maturity” from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, April 13th at Room 1520, located at 1520 W. Fulton. Both emerging designers have shown during NY Fashion Week and are officially launching their collection here in Chicago! A portion of the proceeds will benefit The Arts of Life. For tickets and more info, please click here! Congrats, Omar and Gordana!

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