Plus: Art Institute's Masterpiece19; Elegant nuptials with bespoke wine; Brookfield Zoo's WHIRL; Butterfly Ball; Untied Anti-Gala; ChiQ 2019; Dream Builders Luncheon; Women in History Spring Fundraiser; BizBash!; One Hope United gala; SAIC Fashion 2019; Bixbee Imagination Station; Jonny's Social Impact block party; Barbie Guncles wed!; Chicago Recipes; Peach and the Allstars of Project Runway; Mary's movin' on up; Pierre's Releve Soiree; Amazing video and so much MORE!
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If you had visited the Drake Hotel on the afternoon
of Friday, May 17th, you might have thought the Queen herself was in residence. Royal Guards stood at attention and U.S. and British flags were posted in the lobby, as was a photo of Queen Elizabeth II, all to welcome a sell-out crowd of 300 guests to The Service Club of Chicago’s annual Spring Luncheon – THE hat luncheon in
Chicago. Photogs snapped away as guests arrived for a beautiful cocktail reception in the Drake's
Palm Court. At noon, the flags were paraded through the room to the sounds of “God Save the Queen." Service Club President Tracey DiBuono welcomed everyone to the Gold Coast Ballroom and gave thanks to the event committee and co-chairs Michelle Baker, Annette Findling and Jamie Thorsen. A special tribute was given to Susan Gohl, celebrating 30 years as a
member of the Service Club. Susan received a royal escort to
the podium and gave thanks for her ability to participate in philanthropy and make so many good friends at the same time. As guests dined on a menu patterned after the one served to Princess Diana on her visit to Chicago, guest speaker Graham “Digger” Dillamore, the Garden & Estates Manager for
Historic Royal Palaces, took the stage and regaled the audience with tales of his work and interactions with the Queen Mother Elizabeth,
her corgis and Princess Margaret. The live auction featured a 4 -night stay in London, with a tour of historic sites given by Mr. Dillamore himself, as well as unique and rare photos of the Queen, Princess Diana and the White Garden that were commissioned by Princes Harry & William on the 20th anniversary of their mother’s death. Best Hat Winners (that
were judged during cocktail hour) were Cheryl Coleman, Brenda Tran- Keating and Karen Peters. The event set a new fundraising record, raising over $160,000 to support Philanthropic Grants for 2020. (This year, nearly $400,000 was awarded to 43 deserving nonprofits.) (For more info on this, one of the oldest philanthropic nonprofits in Chicago, click here!)
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The Art Institute of Chicago celebrated its 10th anniversary
of the Modern Wing during its bi-annual gala, Masterpiece19, on May 4th. The spectacular event raised vital funds for the museum's operations and was co-chaired by Andrea and Jim Gordon, Stephanie and John Harris and Nancy and Scott Santi. Nearly 400 guests enjoyed delicious bites during a reception in the museum's Modern
Wing, which included engaging installations and a special performance by the Chicago Children's Choir. Guests then
proceeded across the street to a tent on the South Promenade of Millennium Park for dinner and after-party. Following dinner, guests danced the night away to a performance by music industry legends, The Temptations.
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The Golden Triangle celebrated its 30th anniversary in grand style during an exciting event held at the store (330
N. Clark) on May 16 highlighting the best of global design. In partnership with Jon Cotay Events, over 700 of Chicago’s who’s who attended the celebration. To celebrate this milestone, The Golden Triangle invited a very select group of Chicago artists and
makers to exhibit their modern day masterpieces. They included work from Adam Siegel, Jacob Wener (of Modern Industry), Steven Haulenbeek, Sarah Raskey, 
Mark Yee, Andrew Ek, Laurel Feldman, David Winn, Addison Xu and Lucy Slivinski. Partygoers enjoyed entertainment by DJ Kimberlite, Fulcrum Point and up and coming artist Kaeyra. Creative refreshments included Thai appetizers by Star of Siam and a dessert bar with coconut cake and mango skewers. Guests also enjoyed an exclusive 
fashion presentation curated by Aldrin Del Carmen with models from MP Model Management to celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. (Make-up and hair was provided by Mario Tricoci, led by Eric Demadara, with 
fashions provided by Omaima Couture and Rebecca Minkoff. Guests included Donna Mondi, John Lanzendorf, Cleveland Dean, Lonny White, Neil Zuleta, Albert and Suzanne Friedman, John and Elizabeth Cusack, Michael Kutza and Richard Wilson. (Photos by Vergara Nenriquez)
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I was so honored/thrilled/over-the-moon happy to be
included as an inductee into the BizBash Hall of Fame at the Museum of Science & Industry on May 15. The event "paid tribute to industry icons who shaped today's experience landscape" and to an up-and-coming Rising Star who is making an impact in live events. Nicole Peck, BizBash executive VP, emceed the program that honored
Barbara Lee Cohen (Productions USA) with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Impact Award winners were: Lori Adlesick (Choose Chicago); Jack Luft (Hall's Rentals); Karen
Malone (HIMSS) and Michael Nishi and Carey Pinkowski (Chicago Event Management) and yours truly. Morgan Bucciferro (Chicago Cubs) was honored as the Rising Star. It was a thrilling night with BizBash founder David Adler welcoming the crowd and participating in a Q & A with
the recipients along with Beth Kormanik (BizBash editor-in-chief). Adler also acknowledged Sue Babin, VP of sales, as a driving force of the event. I'm still flying high on cloud nine and so grateful to my friends who attended: Mila and Arthur
Samokhina, Michael Kutza, Dionne Williams, Edla de la Rosa and Jesse Rodriquez III, Dori Wilson and Jeff Foster. We missed you Laurie Dimakos! BizBash is the leading global resource/platform for event organizers and industry professionals. (Special thanks to ByFashionaholic for my cool gold top and earrings! Love them!) (Photos by Mila Samokhina, of course!)
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The impeccable white, vintage Rolls Royce parked
outside was a giveaway as to what to expect for the elegant wedding of Laura Schwartz and Susan Santiago. Laura, a much loved Chicago fixture is an author, professional speaker, on-air TV contributor, former White House Director of Events (during the Clinton years)
and more. Susan, equally accomplished, is SVP at Hyatt Corp, and more. Their engagement was a surprise and blessing for both
with Susan popping the question in the snowy backyard of Laura's family home in Wisconsin. The ceremony at the Fourth Presbyterian Church brought together friends and family who witnessed the joy between these two soul mates. Susan's sister Julie Santiago served as her maid of honor with Andrea
Schwartz Stryker serving as Laura's. Bridesmaids included Julienne Gohde, Jennifer King, Jodi Reeves and Jennifer Thonus, all dressed in rich shades of burgundy.
Groomsmen were Dr. Steve Stryker, Greg Hyder, Jonathan Bedi, Dcota Santiago, Bryan Bennett and JC Bak. The officiant, Shannon Kershner, had known both women and delivered a loving, heartfelt personal ceremony that had everyone reaching for hankies. Members of the Morning Choir performed "Simple Gifts" by Aaron Copland and "Jesu, Joy of All Desiring" by Bach, and others. Laura's off-the-shoulder gown was inspired by one she saw in a
window during a trip with her family to Vienna (the bridal team at Macy's found it for her, of course!) Susan's was done in delicate beadwork, both had beautiful trains. The love in the church was palpable and the looks on their faces as
they walked hand in hand down the aisle as newlyweds was one I hoped their photographer captured. Trolleys whisked guests back to the Park Hyatt where NoMI had been closed for this special occasion. Well known crooner John Vincent was singing Sinatra songs as
guests arrived and the hors d'oeurves, Veuve and cocktails began flowing. Winemaker Michael Mondavi gave me a sneak peek of what Susan and Laura had planned as a surprise for guests–a special, limited edition wine created by and for Laura and Susan in
collaboration with Mondavi in Napa to present to guests. (He unveiled it during dinner.) They picked the name "Journeys" since it marked the beginning of their special life together. Each guest was gifted with a bottle! Sommelier Jillian Rily sabred a 2008 bottle of Veuve La Grand Dame to serve as well. It was a night we will never forget and one of the most loving weddings we've had the honor of witnessing. As the late Kup would say, "Long May They Love" and, in my own words, may they have a lifetime of endless happiness.
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More love in the air! Super cuties Matt Jacobi and Nick Caprio were married over Memorial Day weekend at The Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch. The 
couple made international news in December when they created a custom “Same Sex Barbie Wedding Set” for their 8-year-old niece’s birthday. Jacobi and Caprio wanted to give their niece, something special for her birthday since she and her little sister, would be flower girls in the couple’s wedding. When the couple could not find a toy that was reflective of their wedding or 
special bond with their nieces, they created their own! 
The couple exchanged vows in front of 160 guests and toasted to all the LGBTQ freedom fighters and allies that helped make marriage equality the law of the land. The couple were the first same sex couple to get 
married at the resort and tasked event experts at Juliet Le Fleur, Glamour & Woods, and Southwest Teepee to surprise them on their wedding day. The two grooms left all the 
details up to the wedding vendors so they had no idea what to expect of their wedding décor until they walked down the aisle. I'd say they were pretty happy! Congrats with love, Matt and Nick! (Everlemon Events, photos by Leland Gebhardt Photography)
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The Chicago Zoological Society’s (CZS) Women's Board and Board of Trustees hosted its 38th annual black-tie gala on April 27, at Brookfield Zoo. The organization’s largest fundraiser of the year, which
attracted more than 600 corporate, civic and philanthropic leaders from throughout the Chicagoland area, raised more than $1.4 million! This year’s theme “Roaring Whirl 2019” celebrated the 100th anniversary of the land donation by Edith Rockefeller McCormick to the Forest Preserves of Cook County for the express
purpose of creating a modern zoo. The evening began with a cocktail reception that featured up-close experiences and photo opportunities with many of the zoo’s animal ambassadors (my FAVORITE part!) They included a prehensile-tailed porcupine, tamandua (a small anteater), binturong, and a Major Mitchell’s cockatoo.
Calihan Catering (which we love) served a three-course dinner in the Grand Tent which was fabulously decorated in a 1920s theme by The Flower Firm. The evening also featured a paddle raise, raffle and live auction that featured an 18K gold Akoya pearl and diamond necklace donated by A. Marek Fine Jewelry; naming a southern hairy-nosed
wombat baby; attending an orangutan physical examination at Brookfield Zoo’s Animal Hospital; 60 bottles of wine with 92 points or higher rating from Wine Spectator; and a long weekend stay at Quail Lodge in Carmel, California. Dancing to the music of
Maggie Speaks, one of Chicago’s most popular bands, followed dinner. The chair of the event was Barbara J. Bradford, a resident of North Barrington and a member of the Chicago Zoological Society’s Board of Trustees. Romana E. Malinowski, a resident of Hinsdale and member of the Women’s Board was the co-chair. Proceeds from Whirl support the animals at Brookfield Zoo, as well as the Society’s conservation, education, and research programs. (Photos by Jim Schulz)
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The Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum’s 21st annual Butterfly Ball drew over 650 guests on May 3, raising more than $2 million in
support of the Nature Museum’s science education initiatives that impact thousands of Chicago students and teachers. “Our 21st anniversary gala was met with an incredible outpouring of support for nature and science initiatives. “This
support leads to transformative programs for children, provides support for teachers, and helps us stand as a haven for science – inside the Museum and in every neighborhood of Chicago,” said Deborah Lahey, Nature
Museum president/CEO. During the cocktail hour guests explored the Nature Museum and experienced the ways the institution engages the community through education initiatives, conservation work, citizen science projects, and immersive exhibits. Highlights included meeting the charismatic Blanding’s turtle, hand-modeling with “big bugs,” and touring the new exhibit Thomas D. Mangelsen – A Life in the Wild. The
Butterfly Ball co-chairs were Lisa and John T. Murphy and Kate and Jim Murray. Anne Thompson served as emcee for the 6th year. The Nature Museum honored Holly and Matt Maloney with an Award for Leadership in Science and Education. Their personal philanthropy focuses around education, aligning with the Nature
Museum’s goal to bring science teachings and resources to under-served schools throughout the city. The Maloneys share the Museum’s passion for education programs and bringing nature to life in our urban environment. Chuck Douglas, 18 year member of the board of trustees, was also honored for his support of the Museum with the Butterfly Award for Exemplary Leadership. A three-course dinner was provided by Calihan Catering and the event’s colorful, nature-inspired look and décor were provided by HMR Designs. Following dinner, guests danced to the music of the band Maggie Speaks.
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More than 600 supporters turned up at Moonlight Studios on April 26 for the UnTied Anti-Gala, a benefit for Chicago Scholars. This nonprofit supports Chicago’s academically ambitious, first-generation college
students from under-resourced communities in their efforts to attend and complete college. Led by CEO and Obama Foundation Fellow, Dominique Jordan Turner, the event kicked-off by recognizing the "2019 Class of 35 under 35 Making an Impact." The sold out event raised over $155,000 while highlighting the importance of Chicago Scholars and
its mentorship program that is shaping future leaders and mentors of Chicago – such as those nominated in this year’s class of 35 under 35 – a list which included Chicago Scholars alumni Kevin Stonewall and Ciere
Boatright. Other notable guests included Ben Head (political director of Schakowsky for Congress and a "35 Under 35" honoree; Sierra Wallace (Assistant State's Attorney and "35 Under 35" honoree; Katrina Jackson (Global 
Manager at Underwriters Laboratory and "35 Under 35" honoree; and Precious Jacobs, partner at Jenner & Block. Chicago Scholars is a one-of-a-kind, 7-year mentoring and leadership development program equipping many of Chicago’s brightest and most driven students from under-resourced communities with the tools and mindsets they need to realize their college-to-career dreams and become the city’s top leaders of tomorrow.
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Over 300 fashion-forward, vibrant, community-loving lesbians, bisexual women, transgender and gender nonconforming guests attended ChiQ 2019, an event hosted by Howard Brown Health to support women’s, 
transgender and gender nonconforming healthcare services. The May 4th event raised over $93,000, which will support the 
Howard Brown Health services that include specialized HIV medical care, pharmacy services, birth control counseling, therapy and support groups and so many more. Guests enjoyed a night of dinner, dancing and games in celebration of the community and affirming healthcare for all.
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The Standard Club and Chicago Child Care Society (CCCS) hosted its annual Dream Builders Luncheon on May 7 to celebrate 170 years of service. The event
honored John W. Rogers Jr. (founder/chairman and CEO of Ariel Investments) with the 2019 Dream Builder Award. Aligning with the CCCS vision, Rogers was recognized for his work in youth development and education. I-NOMA (Illinois Chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architects) received the Community Partner Award for their student-led project transforming a space at the Hyde Park headquarters. The event
raised a record-breaking $153,000 to support programs that open a world of positive choices and relationships for Chicago’s children, adolescents and families throughout the South Side and South Suburbs. Led by Dara Munson (CCCS CEO), the program featured a fireside chat with honoree, Rogers. The two discussed the importance of mentorship, and what can be done to ensure more youth are gaining access and
opportunity as they rise through the education system and pursue careers in the financial industry and beyond. “John is a remarkable mentor and friend who lives his values. His commitment to the community will always be his greatest legacy,” said Arne Duncan (former CPS CEO/US Secretary of Education, Obama Administration/managing partner Chicago CRED) who offered a congratulatory video for John, his long-time
friend. “Today’s job market is filled with financial services opportunities, yet many young people in our city don’t know what these jobs are,” says Rogers. “By introducing students to this industry’s vocabulary at a
young age, we’re laying the foundation for a future of possibilities. I like the idea of this next generation being financially sophisticated. It’s never too early to begin learning these ideas.” CCCS has served children, youth and families for 170 years, providing support to the whole family. In doing so, the organization helps to create pathways for success and bright futures for those it serves.
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Girls 4 Science hosted its Women in History Spring Fundraiser on April 30 at 1871 in the Merchandise Mart. With 75 guests in attendance, the event raised more than $10,000 to support Girls 4 Science programs, including weekly Saturday Academies focused on science,
technology, engineering and math (STEM). The event kicked off with a reception and student showcase featuring a Pet Cleaner Prototype by Jasmine Tyler, DNA of Fruits and Vegetables by Kennedi Carpenter, Garlic Through the Eyes of the Raman
Spectrosopy by Deche Lewis, and Lip Balm Chemistry Kit by Karmon Hearmon. Gayle Jones (director of Patient Access at Horizon Pharma), was honored as the Girls 4 Science 2019 Female STEM Professional of the Year. The award presentation was followed by a panel of notable women in STEM who shared leadership experiences and
accomplishments within their respective fields. Led by
Ilene Gordon (former CEO of Ingredion), the panel included Suzzette Jaskowiak (divisional VP of Pharmacy, Healthcare and Customer Engagement Technology at Walgreens); Patricia Saldaña Natke (president and design principal of UrbanWorks Ltd.) and Kari Steele (president of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Chicago.) (Elliot Powell Photos)
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The 124-year old nonprofit, One Hope United, hosted its annual "Hope in Action: Why I Have Hope" gala attracting over 250 supporters on May 3rd to the Hilton Chicago. The event, emceed by Jon Hansen (WCIU-TV) helped drive opportunity and impact for children and families. A highlight of the night was the presentation
of the Ermit Finch Impact Award to Nannie Crudup, a 97-year-old foster grand-parent at One Hope United's Bridgeport Child Development Center. For the past 26 years, she has been making a positive difference in the lives of the center's students and staff. Mario Bonds, a motivational speaker/ author/singer/songwriter and breakout star of NBC Universal’s The Glee Project delivered a powerful performance through his inspirational storytelling and musical talent. DJ Lady D had guests on the dance floor at One Hope United’s first Hope After Dark after-party. For this new event presented by One Hope United's Ambassador Board, doors opened at 10:00 pm for new supporters who didn’t/couldn't attend the gala but still wanted to support a great cause.
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The School of the Art Institute of Chicago hosted SAIC Fashion 2019 on May 3 at Venue Six10 with about 500 people in attendance. The show was a cutting-edge
display of Fashion Core sophomore, junior and post-grad garments with a curated installation of "Body-Builder" fashion elective work in a one-day exhibition on the 1st, 2nd and 10th floors of the space at the Spertus Institute, one of Chicago's most architecturally significant buildings. For this year’s theme, Alchemy 2.0 Transforming Dystopia, students showed more than 260 looks! The SAIC commented about the show noticing that its students are showing more works with heavier political overtones.
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The Bixbee Imagination Station is coming to Chicago on
Sunday, June 15! This immersive, interactive experience for kids (and the kid in you) features an experiential pop up and retail shop. It features several Instagrammable backdrops with engaging activities that boost creativity and self-expression. And for each ticket purchased, Bixbee donates a % of the proceeds to fund access to education for children, from gifting backpacks and school supplies to education funds. Congrats to the Kehoe Designs and BlackOak Technical Productions teams for bringing this experience to life! It runs through mid-September! (Get tickets/more info here!)
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Join Jonny Immerman (founder Imerman Angels and Cloztalk) and reps from 100+ nonprofits on the first day of summer at CLOZTALK's Social Impact Block Party (and launch) on Friday, June 21 from 4 — 10 pm! All ages welcome, family-friendly, FREE, activities, music, cash bar and food by Haymarket Pub & Brewery! Meet and mingle with socially minded people, rain or shine! (Located near Box Shops by Related at 725 W Randolph St. at Halsted, directly east of Haymarket) Hope you can join us!
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The Chicago Help Initiative will host its annual "Chicago Recipes" dining experience at the Chicago Sports Museum on Thursday, June 6. The proceeds will support those in need by providing access to food, health services, shelter and employment. (For tickets, more info, click here!)
Say awwwww…..Join Pierre Lockett and his darling Forward Momentum Chicago: Dancing Towards the Future dancers as they 
present Releve Soiree 2019! This special evening will include cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and, of course, a performance by the students with proceeds supporting summer dance camp programming! The event will be held at the Joffrey Tower on Tuesday, June 11. For tickets/more info, please click here!)
Join the much loved designer Peach Carr and other Project Runway stars Korto Momolu, Joshua J Christensen, Jonathan Kayne and Christopher Palu for the new event, "Allstars of Project Runway," a unique fashion show/fundraiser benefiting JourneyCare on Sat., June 29 at Theater On The Lake ! For tickets, more info, click here!
Huge congrats are in order for everybody's favorite, Mary Boyle,
producer of WGN's Steve Cochran Show, who just got a BIG promotion to WGN Radio's Director of News and Operations! So deserving Mary! As always, Robert Feder had the breaking news! Read it here!
Hope everyone had a wonderful Memorial Day weekend! I had fun
celebrating another year around the sun. Thanks to all of my friends who sent me BD wishes! I'm grateful, thankful and looking forward to more fun with all of you!!!
Love, as always,
Candace
P.S. And, of course, something to leave you with a smile! Her look at the end says it all.
