I love Chicago! I was born and raised here, and even though I lived in other cities, I am so happy I came back to Chicago to start a family—especially during the holidays I’m so glad to have my boys here. From the wreaths on the lions on the stairs of the Art Institute and taking our boys to the Bank of America Festival of Lights every year—Chicago is the greatest place to be this time of year. I’ve lived in several cities but Chicago holidays are my favorite. Hence, my Chicago holiday gift guide and why I am sharing my favorite Chicago based products and services.

Chicago Holiday Gifts

1. Hive Luxury Fragrance Candle
   Hive Luxury Fragrance is the biggest product launch of 2017 next to Rihanna Fenty. I had the pleasure of attending the launch party where I got to sample every fragrance that Bambi Montgomery aka Queen B created. With names like Love Child, Trust, Joy, Loyalty, Acceptance, and Support, you’re bound to find a fragrance to pleasure your senses. Joy happens to be my favorite.
2. GoldFish Swim
   Goldfish Swim school is not only great for learning how to swim, it’s also great for family time with their dedicated family days and kids birthday parties. They even have swim teams beginning at age five. Also, the class ratio is just right so every child gets the perfect amount of individual attention. Of course they also have family friendly changing rooms, which is difficult to find in the city.
3. Blo Blow Dry Bar 
   Walk-in or book online at the hottest new blow dry bar to hit Chicago. With styles ranging from a deep conditioning blow dry to up-dos, or hopping on the braid trend, you are sure to have an amazing experience in the modern decorated neighborhood gem.
4. Little Diners Crew
   In the past year I have raved and raved about this program. It is simply the cutest. Kids eat at a restaurant at a separate table from their parents (need I continue?) and experience cuisines from around the world without an iPad.  You can also purchase a personalized Little Diners Crew experience for your family with their new Little Diners XP program.  Run, don’t walk, and gift someone a membership. They will thank you on end.
5. Scratch Goods 
   Have you not experienced natural and affordable skincare line, Scratch Goods?  Shame on you. In a world of eating clean and organic, you simply can’t neglect your face and body. Owners Maureen and Elizabeth make sure of it with their mask bar as well as their DJ inspired yoga classes. Someone will love you just a little bit more after receiving a gift from Scratch Goods.
6. Sir & Madame 
   Husband and wife, Brian and Autumn Merritt, have curated the hottest men’s and women’s clothing and lifestyle brand. Casual and edgy is how I see it. In addition to their own label, they also carry other local Chicago designers.
7. Hero/Black
   Angela Brantley and Rhea Fernandez, the designers behind this luxury brand for men and women, definitely know street style like the back of their hand. Their collection is like wearable art with its architectural lines, yet feminine and masculine appeal.
8. Felt
   You know how much I love Felt Chicago. Especially because my blog was kinda launched in my closet while bouncing ideas off of owner, Catherine Dunton. A gift/certificate would make the perfect present for the special woman in your life. Furthermore, Felt carries a wide range of designers from ReDone, A.L.C., Tanya Taylor, Jonathan Simkai, and Sundry, so you’ll definitely find something.
9. Momotaro
   I love sushi! That’s no secret. I have been to and worked in several sushi restaurants, however, when this place opened, it created a love affair like no other. A gift card to Momotaro would place the biggest smile on my heart and my tummy. Maybe this item is for me, but I’m sure it would please your favorite sushi connoisseur, too.
10. 143 Tees
    A good tee is hard to find. That said, thank you so much Lyndsey Ager and Jenna Saltzmann for making the best darn tees. 143 tees make short sleeve, long sleeve, as well as tank tops. Although they just launched over the summer, they quickly became my go-to. My ultimate faves are the love letter tees. I feel pretty special with my C on my tee.
11. Advanced Cryotherapy & Fitness
    Advanced Cryotherapy and Fitness is a Chicago based health and wellness company that offers both personal training and recovery methods. The facility offers cryotherapy, infrared sauna, and NormaTec recovery treatments. Owners Billy Huber (my trainer) and Brian Galivan train top notch athletes daily. Don’t worry, though, they take care of the little guys, (me) too. Their BioSignature Modulation helped Billy pinpoint the reason behind my stubborn fat loss. After the results, Billy was able to whip me into shape for a girls weekend away over the summer. Personal training, group training, or recovery sessions are the perfect gift for the wellness guru in your life.
12. Dermatology and Aesthetics
    Finally, one of my best recommendations. Over the past 18 months, my skin has transformed into something special and I owe that to Cynthia Davila at Dermatology and Aesthetics. I began my personalized medical grade facials with her almost two years ago and she changed my life. I incorporated PRP facials about 6 months ago that totally enhanced Cynthia’s hard work. If you follow me on Instagram, you saw me getting V-Shape on my abdomen which tightens loose skin. The practice also offers fillers, pediatric dermatology, and weight management. The retail store is where I buy most of my skincare products as well.

There you have it—everything you need for the Chicagoan in you life! Meanwhile, if you’re  looking for gifts for the kids or your husband, I have guides for them too! Likewise, you can also find some ideas on stocking stuffers as well!