At the end of June we, here in Chicago hwe ave the most amazing parade - Gay Pride Parade on Halsted street. Its a long long tradition with participation from people from all over... What I love most about the week of fun and celebration is the wonderful party with friends. This year was the last party (so sad)and each year we have a party theme...years past we had Birds of Paradise...this year was Love Warrior (fighting for love equality for all). I have made my dresses in the past and this year was no different...I had planned on a rainbow colored tutu and after hitting the fabric stores...that was not going to be the case (too many other people were doing the same thing). I like to be different; instead of going with the obvious, I went with classic. I made a classic tutu in a champagne color -- so much fun to make and even more to wear! I can't wait to make one for my friend's daughter. Ready, Set - Tutu!

You should tutu too!

Samantha Sleeper Pop-Up Store

I love my friends for including me in their personal and professional adventures! My dear friend Laura Kramer (www.wanderandrevel.com) is embarking on a new adventure with showcasing and selling designer Artisan Jewelry from around the world. As a start she paired up with designer Samantha Sleeper (www.Samantha-sleeper.com) in a Chicago Pop-Up store in the prestigious Oak Street district this Spring. We both had the pleasure of attending the Samantha Sleeper fashion show at the W Hotel and the opening event of the store. The event was well attended, and I even managed to try on a beautiful dress (seen below in the invite; I tried on the red version - it was stunning!). As part of the fun, I was even included in The CHICago Life Blog (www.thechicagolifeblog.com) for their best dressed for the night! Here are a few pictures from the event. I’m looking forward to the next occasion to get dressed up and support wonderful creative people.


Samantha Sleeper in front of her own design at the Pop-up store, Samantha Sleeper art design, Me and Laura at the store and Me, from The CHICago Life Blog