Archive for February 2013

Day 59: I have found Diagon Alley!

UPDATE (9-28-13): Wandering Dragon has outgrown their original space! They have moved about a block away. Their new location is 15032 S. Des Plaines Ave., Plainfield. On the 59th day of this 365 day challenge, I have found one of the most fascinating small businesses. Walk up the “secret” side staircase into what feels like... Read more »
By Stefanie Rock,
February 28, 2013 at 8:17 pm • 

Day 58: Olive oil and so much more

Do you have a Belly Card?  I didn’t know what they were either until I started shopping small. Essentially it’s a rewards card for predominately small businesses across the country. It was the Belly Card that led me to Twisted Olive. Yes, Twisted Olive carries delicious flavored olive oils and vinegars, but it’s so much... Read more »
By Stefanie Rock,
February 27, 2013 at 9:20 pm • 

Day 57: A Dose of small businesses!

What if you could find some of the coolest Chicago small businesses all under one roof?  Amazing food, fashion, decor, and even a cocktail!  Wouldn’t that be great?  Well, mark your calender and get ready to get Dosed! One Sunday a month you’ll find some of Chicago’s coolest new businesses at the Dose Market.  I... Read more »
By Stefanie Rock,
February 26, 2013 at 7:48 pm • 
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Day 56: Everyday's a sundae!

Ready for some dessert?  I don’t know if it’s the warm(ish) weather, but I was jonesing for ice cream.  So, my daughter and I made a special trip to an old favorites. Everyday’s a Sundae has been a Downers Grove staple since 1992, I think I’ve been going there since day one. Though they’ve changed... Read more »
By Stefanie Rock,
February 25, 2013 at 7:10 pm • 

Day 55: Bowling fun!

Here’s another great reason for supporting small businesses- fundraisers! Tonight was my son’s baseball team’s annual fundraiser & we had a blast at the Tivoli Bowl. 12 lanes tucked underground; the perfect size to rent out the entire place! Bowling, billiards, tvs, video games- certainly plenty to keep everyone happy. Even though Tivoli Bowl is... Read more »
By Stefanie Rock,
February 24, 2013 at 9:36 pm • 

Day 54: Twist in Chicago

UPDATE (9-29-13): After 9 years, Twist will close its doors on September 30th. We hate to see you go- thanks for all of the delicious, unforgettable meals! What’s a day in Chicago without bacon-wrapped dates, garlic potato salad, and a glass of Sangria?  Sounds like a perfect meal to me!  But that is just the... Read more »
By Stefanie Rock,
February 23, 2013 at 6:02 pm • 
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Day 53: A great offer from Lola's & Gigi's!!

Looking for something fabulous to do this weekend?  Take a drive (it’s really not that far!) and head to Morris, Illinois  Not only is it Cabin Fever days, but we have a great offer just for you, readers, from two of my new favorite small businesses: Lola’s and Gigi’s! Cabin Fever days means the whole... Read more »
By Stefanie Rock,
February 22, 2013 at 4:22 pm • 

Day 52: Favor the Earth!

Since I’ve moved to the Chicago Now forum, many readers are new to this blog (?diary?).  If you’d like to know how this 365 day challenge of shopping small began, this will take you back to day 1.  Catch up on a few of our earlier favorites: Marcel’s Culinary Experience, Lola’s & Gigi’s, and Lemon... Read more »
By Stefanie Rock,
February 21, 2013 at 7:28 pm • 

Day 51: Second City Web Stars

As a small business owner, a website is imperative. But, they’re scary, they’re expensive, and often way beyond our tech knowledge. Since my company is web-based, my website is essentially my store-front. I knew the site I needed was far beyond anything I was capable of creating myself. We often think of small businesses as... Read more »
By Stefanie Rock,
February 20, 2013 at 8:50 pm • 
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Day 50: Save the Date!

Planning a themed party? Want guests to save the date for your big event? Looking for personalized notecards? Tina can help you with all of your stationery needs! If you’re planning an event- The Perfect Invitation has the right card for you. Though my wedding was long ago, this is one of my favorite “save... Read more »
By Stefanie Rock,
February 19, 2013 at 4:23 pm •