Food + Beverage

A Taste of Purpose

How One Marian Village Resident Inspires Through Food and Fellowship Article by Nicole Swanberg Wright When Pam Dieters moved to Marian Village two years ago, she brought more than boxes of belongings into her new cottage home; she brought with her a lifelong love of food, family, and community. Pam’s passion for cooking began decades earlier, when she was raising six children and looking for a way to stay busy at home. From her small kitchen, she launched a catering business, preparing hors...

Food + Beverage

Coffee to Cocktails

Article by Nicole Swanberg Wright | Photography by Jean Lachat There’s something comforting about the ritual of a perfectly brewed cup of coffee or a thoughtfully crafted cocktail. These aren’t just beverages, they’re moments of pause and presence. When made with intention, they invite us to slow down, connect, and savor. Whether it’s a bold single-origin roast or a balanced craft cocktail, the best drinks begin with care, quality, and a story. That story starts with the beans. For David...

Food + Beverage

Local Bites

Treats on the Move Article by Nicole Swanberg Wright Local food-on-wheels entrepreneurs are bringing big flavor and heart to our community, serving everything from icy treats and artisan coffee to sweet donuts and stunning charcuterie. Mobile food businesses are more than just convenient meals—they’re community connectors, bringing people together through shared experiences and bold flavors. From weddings and farmers markets to local events, these food-on-wheels entrepreneurs roll into town...

Food + Beverage

The Secret Sauce

An Inside Look at Enrico's Spaghetti Eating Contest Article by Nicole Swanberg Wright Enrico’s beloved Spaghetti Eating Contest returned for its 5th year at Frankfort Fall Fest, delivering a pound of pasta per plate, plenty of laughs, and a whole lot of friendly competition. Since its start in 2021, the contest has grown from a fun local event into a community favorite, celebrating Enrico’s family recipes perfected over 50 years. With the playful slogan “Get Sauced,” the restaurant wanted to...

Education

A Cut Above

Exploring Culinary Programs That Nourish Skills and Soul Article by Nicole Swanberg Wright On a crisp fall evening in a cozy Mokena kitchen, laughter bounces off the walls as strangers become fast friends, flour-dusted hands shaping gnocchi with quiet pride. Down the road, a middle schooler dices onions in her own kitchen, guided by a warm voice over Zoom. And in downtown Joliet, student chefs in crisp white coats prep for a dinner service that mirrors the pace and pressure of a real...

Food + Beverage

Orchestra, Reimagined

Article by Kenny Marshall What comes to mind when you think of an orchestra concert? For those that have never been, the typical might be things you see in the movies: societies upper echelon in fancy dresses and tuxedos, mingling about and listening to music composed by the likes of Bach and Mozart. For those in our Lincolnway area that have been to a concert, it might be having to drive into downtown Chicago and fight the horrendous traffic, pay an arm and a leg for parking, and of course the...

Event Planning + Services

Design in the Details

Balloon Décor with Style Article by Nicole Swanberg Wright | Photography by Anna Thielen Photography Balloon décor has evolved—and no one does it quite like Stephanie Marquardt, owner of LGM Balloons. Her custom installations go far beyond basic arches, transforming event spaces into immersive, high-style experiences. “Balloons add depth, scale, and impact,” Stephanie explains. “They can instantly upgrade any party space.” This fall, it’s all about texture, mood, and intentional design...

Style + Beauty

Local Threads, Lasting Impact

Article by Nicole Swanberg Wright | Photography by Jean Lachat Photography Fall in the Lincolnway area brings more than changing leaves—it brings fresh style from three standout boutiques. Whimsy, Moody Blues, and Hustle & Heart each offer a distinct shopping experience, blending personal flair, local roots, and curated fashion perfect for the season ahead. This fall at Whimsy, staff are loving cozy, easy-to-wear pieces that still feel special. Chunky sweaters in rust, olive, camel, and...

Beauty

Fresh-Faced for Fall

Article by Nicole Swanberg Wright | Photography by Jean Lachat As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to fall, Jessica McKane, owner of Glimpse Med Spa, shares her favorite beauty trends and skincare essentials for the season. “Fall is all about soft, wearable color,” she says—think metallic olive smokey eyes, bold lips, and creative blush placement along the temples or inner eye corners. Texture and versatility are key this year, with multi-use products like cream blushes and bronzers...

Professional Services

Seniority in Style

Article by Nicole Swanberg Wright | Photography by Jean Lachat Photography At Smith Crossing in Orland Park, stylish living doesn’t retire: it evolves. Built around the idea that life should be lived with energy, purpose, and meaningful connection, this vibrant senior living community offers so much more than a typical retirement environment. Here, residents aren’t slowing down; they’re discovering new passions, deepening friendships, and embracing every moment with style and enthusiasm. “It’s...