cover, issue one
I’m always ready to embrace something new in print, and so when one of my favorite calligraphers, Janis Anzalone, started Instagram-ing previews of work she was doing for a new wedding magazine, I was all eyes/ears. Geraldine launched in December 2014, and Editor-in-Chief Daniel Tran has presented a knockout debut. The magazine is filled with inspiration whether you’re a bride-to-be or simply an aesthete. Packed with practical-yet-pretty wedding ideas, including romantic dresses and über-elegant real wedding features, my favorite bits in Geraldine are the profiles spotlighting some of California’s most talented creatives. Among those featured in the launch issue are Ms. Anzalone, pastry chef/food stylist Elizabeth Colling, bespoke gift assembler-extraordinaire Simone LeBlanc (I’m obsessed with her at the moment), and William Werner, the brains behind the clever SF bakery Craftsman and Wolves.
I find there are so many parallels between wedding planning and party planning (which in turn draws upon the tenets of a life well-lived), so I’m keeping my copy of Geraldine around for inspiration and reference. The magazine’s roster of contributors is impressive and continues to grow — the latest addition is photographer Jose Villa — and I can’t wait to see Issue No. 2.
Order your copy at the Geraldine magazine website, or look for it in selected Anthropologie stores.
geraldine magazine’s motto, written in janis anzalone’s lovely script
janis anzalone feature
one of janis’ illustrations for issue one
elizabeth colling feature
all photos by jane potrykus
Chicago: a place that, after last year’s ridiculous weather, was somewhere I was in no hurry to get back to anytime soon. In fact, I swore that I was not. going. back. this year. Funny how family and the holidays changes that: once again, I found myself sitting on a plane headed west on Christmas Eve. As we still don’t know where we’ll end up after our London experience, I decided to make the most of this visit and hit as many of my favorite spots as possible over the holiday weekend — thankfully, the weather this year was so much better for exploring (no snow and no boots! I even declared myself warm-ish one day!) and so without further ado, I present the simplepretty list of must-see Chicago spots. Tuck it away for your next visit to the Windy City, although may I suggest you table your visit until it’s a bit warmer out.
All addresses are Chicago unless otherwise noted.
1. Mindy’s Hot Chocolate (1747 N. Damen // @mindysegal)
Mindy’s Hot Chocolate (photo at top) has been on my “got to get there” list for so long, it’s become embarrassing (especially when you realize that it opened more than 10 years ago). The inside was charming and cozy (we sat at the bar), my tomato soup and grilled cheese lunch hit the spot on a chilly Saturday, and because my sweet tooth knows no limits — and Mindy’s Hot Chocolate is known for its baked goods — I couldn’t leave without a package of marshmallows and a shortbread/fleur de sel cookie. It’s official: I’m in love.
2. Jayson Home and Garden (1885 N. Clybourn // @jayson_home)
Wandering through Jayson Home (they seem to have dropped the “and Garden” but I’m ignoring them) is like seeing your favorite interiors blog come to life. The store is filled with envy-inducing (and wallet-emptying) furniture, accessories, and even a flower cooler for an impromptu bouquet. My visits to Jayson Home tend to focus on the artwork. This trip, I was swooning for the mass of framed vintage French fans (originally handed out at the Tour de France) as well as my usual kryptonite, nautical maps.
3. Goddess and Grocer (1649 N. Damen // @goddessgrocer)
The Goddess and the Grocer (another business that seems to have tweaked its name while I’ve been away, but I’m sticking with my old-school version) has moved into a new location: it’s cleaner, brighter, and definitely easier to navigate. If I had a bottomless stomach or the metabolism of a 17yo boy, I would have ordered up lunch #2. As I do not, we settled for a couple of chocolate chip cookies to savor later. I also spent a bit of time ogling the freezer case — there were so many appealing choices of Zarlengo’s gelato on display. (G&G also informally serves as a packaging hall of fame exhibit.)
4. The Doughnut Vault (401 N. Franklin // @doughnutvault)
Oh, Doughnut Vault. Star of so many Instagram feeds, with a line that just won’t quit, and a reputation for selling out quickly. With that knowledge, we arrived just before opening time on Sunday, and queued in very London-like conditions (no talking!) After 18 months of London prices, the $2 buttermilk old-fashioned doughnut seemed like the deal of a lifetime. And yes, it was delicious.
5. Floriole (1220 W. Webster // @floriole)
After our doughnut run, we were headed back to the ‘burbs, but not before a stop at my favorite Chicago bakery, Floriole. With a pastry case to die for (panna cotta with pomegranate/pots de crème/croissants) I was overwhelmed with options. My strategic plan was to pick up a BAD sandwich (bacon arugula date on cornmeal bread) to enjoy later in the day — you MUST try it. Unfortunately, that plan was thwarted as we arrived too early for lunch service. (Note to all potential BAD samplers: 11 am is the time you’re shooting for.) I settled for a box of canelés and a latte to go. I’m still a bit sad that I missed out …
In the ‘burbs ….
6. The Other Door (SE corner of Center + Scranton, Lake Bluff)
After a much-needed Monday Pilates session, my trainer, Jenny, asked if I’d checked out the new Mexican restaurant on the corner. Challenge accepted: chips, guac, and a Casa Noble margarita were the perfect post-workout reward. Once again, my timing was off: next visit I’ll be sure to stop back for the full taco/burrito/salsa experience.
7. Firkin (515 N. Milwaukee Ave, Libertyville // @firkinlbrtyvle)
Firkin was one of the first restaurants we discovered after moving to the northern suburbs: we’ve been going there since my buddy was two and his dinner consisted of chicken fingers and a glass of milk. (Now he’s a Tall-grass burger enthusiast.) Always decorated in an eclectic/fun fashion, Firkin is my go-to destination: it boasts an extensive beer menu as well as reliable, yummy pub food. A relaxing lunch with both sets of parents marked our last meal in Illinois, with a Chimay White and fish tacos capping off our winter holiday. Until next time, Firkin.
Extra credit:
8. Amidei Mercatino (235 Southgate, Lake Forest)
If you’re smart enough to postpone your visit until spring, don’t miss Amidei Mercatino. Tucked into an alleyway behind the former Lake Forest branch of Marshall Field’s (now home to J.Crew and Blue Mercury), Amidei is the most charming produce stand I’ve ever visited. Ever.
9. Olivia’s Market (2014 W. Wabansia)
Can you stand yet another cute grocery? Hopefully yes, because Olivia’s Market is worth a visit. It’s one of those spots that makes me wish I was a local. And then the wind blows …
all photos, layout and type by jane potrykus
look 5
The Row’s pre-fall collection is perfect for January. Simple lines; über-neutral palette. (And I love how the low-slung skirt gives such a long, lean line.) Sign me up, and preview the full collection at Style.com.
look 3
look 14
image credits: arno frugier photos courtesy of the row for style.com
look 4
Osman’s pre-fall collection is utilitarian luxe® perfection. Minimalist styling with a touch of irreverence via the accessories. See the complete show at Style.com.
look 23
look 21
look 3
osman courtesy photos for style.com
look 14
Elizabeth and James’ pre-fall collection was full of polished looks that had a touch of gamine. I’m particularly fond of the elongated lines from look 14’s high-waisted skirt and t-neck. (worn with Stan Smiths, no less). See the complete collection at Style.com.
look 1
look 6
elizabeth and james courtesy photos for style.com
