Candid Candace

STUDENTS SHINE AT DRIEHAUS FASHION AWARDS!

The Eighth Annual Driehaus Awards for Fashion Excellence event was held in what appeared to be Richard Driehaus’ garage Friday night at 700 S. Des Plaines Ave. Almost 400 guests mingled among Richard’s vintage car collection in anticipation of the fashion show which featured the designs of 25 students from five Chicago area art schools and colleges: Columbia College Chicago, Dominican University, the Illinois Institute of Art, the International Academy of Design & Technology and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Over $100,000 was raised and proceeds from ticket sales supported The Enterprising Kitchen, Graffiti Zone and Bottomless Closet. The master of ceremonies was WLS TV’s Linda Yu with a surprise welcome by Governor Pat Quinn. Extreme Dance Force Crew entertained while guests including Christie Hefner, Billy Marovitz, State Representative John Cullerton, WLS’TV’s Ron Magers, Maureen and Marc Schulman, Suzie and Ross Glickman, Patricia Besser, Mary Jo Basler, Richard Voit, Melinda Jakovich, Celeb TV’s Kelly Zink and Ryan Preuett looked on. The $5,000 first place award was presented to Hector-Javier MonArrez and the $2,500 second place award went to Danielle Wyman. Third place winner was Miriam Cecilia Carlson. The event was expertly produced by Tracey Tarantino of Zzazz Productions. Photos from top left: design by Adriana Gonzalez; Governor Pat Quinn; show producer Tracey Tarrantino and MC Linda Yu; the gorgeous venue; Scott Johnson, Julie Selzkovich and Gary Metzner; Celeb TV's Kelli Zink and Ryan Preuett. For more photos from this event, click here. 
 
Gorgeous Jaslene Gonzalez, the winner of Cycle 8 of America's Next Top Model, and her equally good-looking brother Javier Gonzalez, flew from New York back to their home town of Chicago to headline a runway fashion revue at The Edge, produced by the MGO Salon. As the photos by Steve Starr show, she’s still gorgeous! Photos from top left: Jaslene Gonzalez; Jaslene with Edge owner Anastacio. For more photos from this event, click here.
 
The Service Club of Chicago held its annual Spring Luncheon at the Trump Hotel and Spa and 129 beautiful women showed up and showed off their gorgeous hats. The event was organized by the indefatigable Hazel Barr. The Trump Spa donated a one-month membership to the raffle winner and famed milliner, Loreta Corsetti, donated a beautiful hat from her line. The 120-year-old Service Club of Chicago is one of the oldest philanthropic organizations in the city and this year alone, they gave away over $359,000. There were a record number of grant requests this year (81) totaling $1.2 million. I wish we were able to give them all what they need but am happy for the  success of the Philanthropic Committee this year led by the extremely capable and caring Saville sisters—Katherine and Connie! Congrats for the commendable work you’ve done this year and all years! (Photos by John Reilly) Photos from top left: Sharyl Mackey, Simona Groza and Cindy Burns; 2009 Gala co-chairs Kathy Crane and Cathy Smith; luncheon organizer Hazel Barr with friends.

Birthdays are usually a pretty big deal for most people but not for Terry “Whitey” Pearson! He had so many people who wanted to fete him that he had to put his foot down! Nonetheless, his great friend Marissa Rudman along with other admirers convinced him   otherwise so a party it was at Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak and Stone Crab on Saturday, May 9th. Whitey is a fixture, legend, icon, you name it, not only around town but coast to coast and beyond! He started at WGN-TV in 1969 and worked there for 33 years as one of the best salespeople they ever had. He is beloved by many and happy friends at the party included Marty Wilke, Marissa Rudman, Ellen and Jim Roche, Sean Sheehan, Doug Cook, Jan and John Reardan, Vicki and Peter Walker, Julie and John Hendricks and Chuck Jordan among others. Photos from top right: Whitey Pearson; Marty Wilke and Marissa Rudman; John and Julie Hendricks; Jan Reardon, Marty Wilke, John Reardon and Chuck. For more photos from this event, click here.
 
Hold onto your hats for a very unique concept in dance coming from the master himself, Fabrice Calmels, principal dancer for the Joffrey Ballet, and co-creator Sasha Fornari! On Saturday, May 16th, we were privileged to be invited to the launch party for their new website, 30 Seconds of Dance, which was hosted by the Alliance Francaise. Around 70 lovers of dance showed up to see incredible live performances by Be the Groove (drumming), Kris Rhodes (hip hop) and an amazing break dancing number by Brave Monk. There were so many head spins I lost count!! Fabrice and Sasha scour the world of dance to bring you a unique new video every weekday of dancers and dance groups for your enjoyment. Check it out! You will be happy you did! The editing is fantastic and the dancing will leave you speechless….Good luck Fabrice and Sasha! Photos from top right: 30 Seconds of Dance creators Sasha Fornari and Fabrice Calmels; the stars of 30 Seconds to Dance; performers Brave Monk and Kris Rhodes; Be the Groove performers.

My favorite pet luxury store, Tails in the City, recently celebrated their fifth year anniversary on May 15th at Level Nightclub. They had a wonderful turnout and the proceeds all benefitted the Anti-Cruelty Society. Guests enjoyed red carpet photos, psychic pet readings by Denise Zak, pet massage by Pam Kuhn, pet caricatures, doggie makeovers in the Bobbi Panter Beauty Lounge, pet training consultations and exhibits from local artists Mark Lind, Mardon Ink and Curly Tale Art. Store owners Bruce Haas and Phillip Emigh opened Tails in the City in 2004. They scour the market for the latest in doggie couture and accessories and were immediately embraced as a fashion destination for canine-istas. Celebs including Holly, Kendra and Bridget - formerly from the reality series “The Girls Next Door” - all own some of their delicious doggie duds as well as actress Brittany Murphy who made this a destination stop on her way back from filming a movie in the Quad Cities enroute to L.A. with her pet Maltese, Clara. One of the best things about Tails in the City is the fact that they’re always planning various fundraisers and special events in an attempt to give back to their community. Their events support PAWS Chicago and the Anti-Cruelty Society. Great job guys and thanks for letting us all party with our pets! (Photos by Greg Szoda) Photos from top right: Brittany Murphy and Phillip Emigh with Brittany's Maltese Clara; Bruce Haas, Christine Rezagholi with Pixie and Phillip Emigh with Genevieve; Fantasia Haas with Ernie and Emma; John David with Junebug; the Smiths with Calamity Jane; Anita Wood with Vino; "Best in Show". For more photos from this event, click here.

There will be a special movie night premiere on June 23rd brought to you by Brenda Sexton of Chicago Link Productions called “Year One.” This movie is directed by Chicago’s own Harold Ramis and stars Jack Black and Michael Cera. Harold will be attending and will have a Q & A after the film. The after party for this event will be on the fantastic rooftop of the new Wit Hotel at State and Lake for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. There will also be a special tribute to Flashpoint Academy which is celebrating its first year graduates. This event is by invitation only so check your inbox and keep your fingers crossed! :) But don’t worry if you’re not there, you will feel like you were when you read about it all in CandidCandace! :) Photos from top left: Jack Black and Michael Cera in "Year One"; director Harold Ramis.

And now I would like to announce that the Tribune has picked up CandidCandace for their upcoming brand new website Chicago Now! They have picked 40 of their favorite local bloggers and hope to have 80 by the end of the month. It’s a hot new website dedicated solely to Chicago with something for everyone so don’t miss it!!! Photos from top left: me with the Tribune's Bill Adee; beautiful view from Tribune Tower. 
 
As you can tell from this latest video, there is danger lurking around every corner so you have to be forever vigilant! Hope you all had a wonderful Memorial Day! I want to thank all of our past and present military for all of the heroic service they have provided to keep us all safe. I humbly salute you….
 
Love,
Candace :)

COSTUME COUNCIL WELCOMES DESIGNER RALPH RUCCI

Designer Ralph Rucci is quite simply a genius. I was so lucky to be invited to the Costume Council’s champagne reception, luncheon and conversation with Mr. Rucci on Tuesday, May 5th. It was held in conjunction with Neiman Marcus and presented his Chado Ralph Rucci fall 2009 trunk show collection—great job Wendy Krimins! Costume Council president Noren Ungaretti welcomed 100 guests to the Chicago History Museum. Several of Ralph’s designs were on display as you entered the space and they were all marvels of dress-making. Ralph doesn’t like the word “couture” but they sure looked haute couture to me! The craftsmanship on each garment is the reason why his prices are on the high side. (High to me, anyway :)) He says, “I want to make clothes so women can catch up to who they already are. If you’re investing in one piece, it must be aspirational…” He goes on to say, “I think jeans and a t-shirt can be very chic but I take offense at sweatshirts in airports.” (I do too…) He knows every aspect of the dress-maker’s art from pattern-making and sketching all the way to sewing the clothes himself. He says his handwork is better than his machine-work. He was wearing an exquisite dark suit with a cropped jacket and the most amazing cufflinks! Large, white baroque pearls attached to only one side of the cuff. He looked every inch the master designer and he couldn’t have been more honest and open. He answered all of the questions posed to him by costume curator Timothy Long at length and with great personal insights. He loves Chicago and describes it as having “all of the satisfaction of NY without the anxiety.” (I loved this!) In 1980, he decided to strike out on his own and in 2002, he was the first American designer ever to show couture in Paris. He is still bitter, and rightfully so, over the fact that the American magazines didn’t even cover this momentous achievement. He said the European shows aren’t about selling clothes, it’s about selling licensing. He never offers free clothes to actresses like some other designers do just to get them ringside at their shows. He said, “We don’t give clothes to actresses who are making $12 million dollars per picture.” Good for him! (What about lowly bloggers I wondered….) Happy guests included Julie Latsko, Dusty Stemer, Nena Ivon, Carol Prins, Karen Goodyear, Maria Pinto, Bonnie Deutsch, Toni Canada, Sarah Tetzlaff, Britt Taner, Linda Levine, Jean Goldman, April Schink, Shirley Schnackenburg, Carol Stone, Noren Ungaretti, Laurie Davis, Dorothy Fuller, John Anshel, Heather Wright, Karen Beal, Sherrill Bodine, Lawrie Weed, Lynda Silverman, Robin Finley, Paula Pianta, Myra Reilly, April Schink, Natasha Isaacs, Laura Barnett, Tony Rossi, Eva Jakubowski and many more. Photos from top right: Chaddo Ralph Rucci designs; Dorothy Fuller, Ralph Rucci and Neiman's Tina Koegel; Gail Elden, Cynthia Holbrooke and Dana Hokin; Geri Shute, designer Maria Pinto and Tony Rossi; Robin Finlay and Paula Pianta; Natasha Isaacs, Laurie Davis, Sherrill Bodine, Eva Jakubowski, Susanna Negovan and Dusty Stemer; chic couple; detail of Ralph Rucci design; Myra Reilly and Lynda Silverman; luncheon venue at the Chicago History Museum; Karen Beal; Costume Council president Noren Ungaretti welcoming guests. For more photos from this event, click here.

Birthdays are always nice but when it’s gorgeous twins, it’s TWICE as nice!!! Kristina McGrath and Korinna Isselhardt  hosted a wonderful party at Kristina’s lovely home in the Palmolive Building! They have so many glamorous friends who all turned out to toast these charming and beautiful sisters. There were balloons everywhere and custom designed martinis including the “Kristini” and the “Korinni”. Ladies gathered on one of their dramatic terraces, complete with a putting green, to sip and chat. The lake views at sunset made me think how happy I am to be living in one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Kristina had sweet nibbles created with her favorite charity logo - USO - in icing on the tops. She didn’t miss a detail and it showed in every thoughtful way. Fifty friends attended including Rebecca Besser, Maria Nasharr, Shauna Montgomery, Patty Nalepa, Jan Hannagan, Heather Farley, Jan Emmert, many USO friends and others. It was expertly catered by True Helpers. I wish Kristina and Korinna many more happy birthdays with wonderful friends! Photos from top right: birthday twins Korinna Isselhardt and Kristina McGrath; Heather Farley holding USO cookies; Rebecca Besser, Kristina McGrath, me, Jan Hannagan and Shauna Montgomery; Ava Verwaller and Denise Landis; Jan McGrath and Melissa Hansen. For more photos from this fun fete, click here.
 
Factio Magazine’s “Art Rocks” bash was held Friday, May 1st, at Lumen, located at 839 W. Fulton Market, and brought out 300 guests. “Art Rocks” was the official opening night after-party of Art Chicago which opened May 1st with a four-day run of exhibitions, speaking programs and parties. The evening’s lineup of hosts included designer Cynthia Rowley, Factio editor Melissa Maynard, Factio publisher Henrique Kerch, fashion designer Claudia Kleiner, artist Christine Sanderson, jewelry designer Tracey Mayer, Elite model’s Kasia Konlar and moi aussi! This event presented works by artist Michael Brucks, visual artist Sin-R8, Edyta Stepien, Stoptime341 Productions and M5. Photos from top left: Factio's Melissa Maynard, Graham Kostic, Michael Brucks and Kasia Koniar (photo by Billy Rood of Fig Media); Carrie Lannon with Melissa's mom and dad; Melissa Maynard's supportive family 

The Women’s Board of the Joffrey Ballet held their year end luncheon at the Racquet Club Tuesday, May 12th. It celebrated our outgoing president Kathleen Klaeser and welcomed incoming officers. For 2009-2011, the new WB president is Christine Ott, I am honored to be vice president, Kelly Dettmann is treasurer and Kerrie Kennedy Mudd is the new secretary! Congratulations to all! Kathleen Klaeser, who received a standing ovation for her wonderful leadership, presented artistic director, Ashley Wheater, with a check for $1,529,934 representing the Women’s Board contribution to the Joffrey for 2009. (CS Magazine named the Joffrey Women’s Board as the “most powerful women’s board in the city” due to their incredible fundraising efforts and I don’t disagree.) Kathleen announced that Elizabeth Feste, Director of Individual Giving and a favorite among all of the members, was being deployed to Baghdad in the fall for a year. There were tears all around but Elizabeth said she will be working in public affairs and was very excited for this new experience and the opportunity to be supporting our country. She went on to say that her commander said, “It’s safer to be in Baghdad than driving down the Dan Ryan!” We wish her all the best and will be waiting with open arms to welcome her home. Photos from top right: outgoing Women's Board president Kathleen Klaeser; incoming officers Christine Ott, me, Kerrie Kennedy Mudd and Kelly Dettmann; Elizabeth Feste; Kathleen Klaeser presenting check to Joffrey artistic director Ashley Wheater; beautiful flower centerpieces from Jonathan Ryan of "A Perfect Event"; luncheon at the Racquet Club. For more photos from this event, click here. 

On the entertainment front, Brenda Sexton of Chicago Link Productions hosted the opening of Star Trek, the summer’s first blockbuster, on May 8th. The event benefitted Columbia College Film School’s commitment to space-age film technology development. Richard Roeper kicked off the evening by introducing the film, after which, Chicago’s elite wined and dined at Fleming’s Steakhouse & Wine Bar. I must say I was prepared for a two-star movie but it was fantastic! And you don’t have to be a trekkie to enjoy it! It’s action packed with a great story and good-looking actors and actresses who can ACT! I spoke to Chaz Ebert and she told me she had chastised Roger for only giving it 2 ½ stars! Some of the special guests included Oprah regular Dr. Laura Berman, former Blackhawk Reid Simpson, Chaz Ebert, Michigan Avenue Magazine publisher Dan Uslan, Sun-Times columnist Laura Washington and Chicago Urban League President, Cheryle Jackson. The movie night was sponsored by Level 1 (whose CEO Thomas McElroy is a self-proclaimed trekkie) and by IndieVest, an independent film production company. Many thanks to Mitch Canoff for the wonderful photos you see here! Photos from top left: Karen Vock, movie critic Richard Roeper and John Scheinfield; me with Chicago Link Productions’ Brenda Sexton; Carrie Lannon, Steve Traxler, Carol and Jerry Roper; Megan Vidis and Joyce Kilburg; Charlene Gorzela, Julee White and Joy Cunningham; Anita Ponder, Darrell and Kim Hubbard, Chester Singletary, Thomas McElroy and T. Shawn Taylor; me with my trekkie husband. 

And now I have some very sad news to report on the celebrity front. Kermit is the latest victim to succumb to swine flu. Health authorities have a suspect. May he rest in peace…… Photo: proof that it's not easy being green.

A happy birthday shout-out to Chicago legend, Terry “Whitey” Pearson! Watch for complete party coverage coming next week! Photo: Terry "Whitey" Pearson.
 
Have a wonderful, happy and healthy week! My husband is going in for knee replacement surgery on Tuesday so I’m not sure how many events I will be attending but I will try to keep you all abreast of any exciting news. Say a little prayer and bear with me….
 
Love,
Candace :)

THE MODERN WING OPENING GALA!

I knew when I received the unique invitation that this opening event was not going to be ordinary. The heavily padded greige invitation with a design by Renzo Piano on the front measured 8" X 8 ½"  and was elegant in its simplicity. It announced the Modern Wing Opening Gala of the Art Institute which was presented by the Board of Trustees and the Women’s Board of the Art Institute of Chicago. Table level prices were $25,000 for the Modern Patron, $50,000 for the Modern Benefactor and to host the Modern Wing Opening cost a cool  $100,000. Individual tickets were $2,500 each. Gala chairs were Francie Comer, Caryn Harris, Judy Keller and Maureen Dwyer Smith. A friend asked me if I didn’t think this ticket price was outrageous in this stressed economy and I told her, “Yes, I think it’s outrageous and I can’t wait to go!” And it did NOT disappoint. Approximately 1,100 guests sipped champagne and cocktails in the massive rotunda. Mary Frey was there capturing all of the glamour and believe me, there was plenty of it.  Men and women in all manner of dress—short, long, pants, ballgowns, incredible jewels (real and not real). The common denominator for dress was all out DRAMA! Everywhere you looked was a vision worthy of Paris Vogue. After cocktails, we were all ushered down Monroe Street under a tented tunnel to Grant Park where there was a giant glass tent that looked like an oversized sparkling Tavern on the Green as you got closer. Inside, expert catering by George Jewell made the event even more perfect. I even saw George helping out and mixing drinks! The ceiling was hung with scattered modern, silver spiked orbs of light that overlooked a sea of white, crystal and silver. The Mayor and Maggie and everyone who was anyone was there enjoying this special moment in Chicago’s history. At the end of dinner, there was a sound and light celebration with people rappelling down the side of a building but, at this point, we were all on sensory overload and heading back to the Modern Wing for dessert. The entire building is formidable and intimidating in its scope but once inside, the collections overtake you as you wander from floor to floor open-mouthed viewing the priceless pieces. The restaurant with its huge sculpture terrace is gorgeous—all white with the most amazing views of the city. I went up in the elevator with its designer, Dirk Lohan (grandson of Mies van der Rohe) and he said the restaurant will be run by the Levy Group and he also thought the views would be spectacular and he was so right. The Modern Wing itself was designed by Pritzker award winning architect Renzo Piano and provides a new home for the museum’s collection of 20th and 21st century art. This 264,000 square-foot building has been a decade in the making and increases the size of the Art Institute by a third, making it the second largest art museum in the U.S. behind the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. It will house the museum’s permanent collections of 20th century and contemporary painting and sculpture, photography, and architecture and design, plus special exhibition areas, an education center, a bookstore, the gorgeous restaurant and dramatic terrace. The public opening will be May 16th with a couple of other celebrations including the Young Modern Party on the 15th which is sold out (ticket price was $75) and a members’ party on Friday, May 22nd. Chic modern guests included Christina Gidwitz, Jamee Field and Michael Kane, Julie and Fred Latsko, Martin Gapshis, Gretchen and Jay Jordan, Rebecca and Charlie Besser, Shelley and Bill Farley, Helen Melchior, Jay Franke, Leslie Hindman, Noren and Richard Ungaretti, Chris Long, Mary Lou Gorno, Caryn and King Harris, most of the Pritzkers and Crowns, Jennifer Perucca, Susan Babin, Tammy Kohl, Mary and Roy Cullen, Patsy Callahan, Peter Bakwin, Harve Farrer, Karla Scheer, Kathy Tazlitz, Carol and John Winsler, Terry Newman, Shirley and Pat Ryan, Jamie Dimon, Bill Wrigley, Susan and Lew Manilow, Kim and Miles White, Wells Kaufman, Ann and Burton Kaplan, Ed and Debbie Smith, Ashley Wheater, Christopher Clinton Conway, Fred Echyaner, William Kennedy Smith, Kate Gaynor, Barbara Pearlman, Pat Sheehan, Diane and Robert Levy, Tina and Bryon Trott, Pam Phillips Weston and Roger Weston, Andrea and Jim Gordon, Ann and John Grube, Maxine and Jim Farrell, Mike and David Fox, Judy and John Keller and many, many more fabulous people doing fabulous things. This new addition to our great city is obviously a must-see! :) Photos from top right: cocktail and champagne reception; Christina Gidwitz; Jennifer Perucca in J. Mendel; Patsy Callahan in Chado Ralph Rucci; Ed Smith and gala co-chair Maureen Dwyer Smith; Michael Kane and Jamee Field; Katherine Chez and Judd Malkin; chic couple; Mary Lou Gorno, Leslie Hindman and Martin Gapshis; Kate Gaynor and Chris Long (in Oscar de la Renta); Grace Barry, me and William Kennedy Smith; dining pavillion in Grant Park; Rebecca Besser; Houston's Mary and Roy Cullen; dining pavillion par nuit; Helen Melchior, Christopher Clinton Conway, me, Ashley Wheater, Grace Barry and Jay Franke; Modern's restaurant designed by Dirk Lohan; view from the Sculpture Terrace; designer Dirk Lohan with friends; Kathy Tazlitz; another chic couple enjoying the gala. For more photos from this enchanting evening, click here.

On Thursday, May 7th, Bulgari hosted a lovely cocktail reception to benefit Save the Children’s “Rewrite the Future” Campaign. This Michigan Avenue store was crammed with well-wishers, many of us scrambling to order one of the signature sterling silver rings created just for this occasion. At $290, it was the perfect way to be supportive and not have to spend a fortune. This also makes a perfect gift idea! It has “Bulgari” engraved on the outside and “Save the Children” engraved on the inside. Store Manager Lisa Kraus welcomed guests and was beaming at the wonderful turnout. I was told Ellen DeGeneres gave a ring to each member of her studio audience….nice! The event was catered by Jon Wool of Finesse Cuisine. A wonderful event for a very worthy cause! Photos from top left: Robin Mucha, store manager Lisa Kraus and Adrienne Brown; Sean Eshaghy and Courtney Kennedy; Save the Children ring presentation; Megan McMillan.
 
Graham Kostic did it again! His “Glossed & Found” party at Galleria Unico brought out a fun-loving crowd to this unique Gold Coast venue at 44 E. Superior St. Guests included Paul Sherman, Lynne Bredfeldt, Jon Wool, Jessa Brinkmeyer, Toni Canada, Lisa Trunda, Harold Zimmerman, David Rothstein (who has a wonderful organization called “Share Your Love”), Paul Gonzalez, Ed and Mike Howlett, Thea Robinson, Danijela Ricco, Jiwon McCartney, JoAnne Bush, Tanya Robinson, gallery owner Julia Jacobs-Sandford, Ann Brodette, Jean Lilly, Sandy Stephan, Rebecca Morga, Traci Kuhn and many more! It was sponsored by Votre Vu, Grey Goose, MaiChef Cuisine and Fig Media. Graham’s parties are always so much fun and high energy! Thanks again Graham! :) Photos from top left: me, Graham Kostic and Toni Canada; Tanya Robinson; Jake's Lance Lawson and Jim Wetzel with Amanda Puck; Joey Majumdar and Veronica Zepeda; Toni Canada, Heather Farley and Ellen Wesley. For more photos from this event, click here.
 
I’ve saved an article from O Magazine for several months and just came across it again.  It’s about an incredible website called Taaz.com. All you need to do is upload a headshot of yourself and it takes you places you might never have been before! You can choose a new hairstyle, change your makeup, add false lashes, try different hair colors and even whiten your teeth—all in the privacy of your own computer area. I tried all of the looks and it was a blast! Try it for yourself and see how you look as a redhead! :) There is also a similar site at www.InStyle.com where you can do Hollywood makeovers by trying on 100+ different star styles. (See more of my new looks here!) Photo: one of my many Taaz.com makeovers.

Big congratulations to my friend Carlo Mondavi on his terrific spread in this month’s Vanity Fair magazine! The article, entitled “Fortune’s Children”, showcases 38 heirs and heiresses photographed by Bruce Weber. They are all making privilege count and include Ivanka Trump, Antoine Arnault, Georgina Bloomberg, Lord Edward-Spencer Churchill, Armie Hammer, Amanda Hearst, Kathleen Kennedy, Andrea Casiraghi and Harry Morton. It’s a terrific article with wonderful photos! Congrats Carlo! :) You’re the cutest! (For more on Carlo and his latest luxury skincare line, Davi, see his interview on CNBC here.) Photo: Carlo Mondavi (photo credit: Bruce Weber).
 
I hope you have a wonderful week and please take a look at another video that will start off your week with a smile…. 
 
Love,
Candace :)

DREAMING OF “BUBBLES AND BAUBLES!”

The “Bubbles and Baubles” luncheon was held at the gorgeous Prosecco Restaurant at 710 N. Wells on Monday, April 20th. The women of the Auxiliary Board of the Art Institute featured the world famous jewelry designer Tony White and his unique designs. In the center of every table Peter Martino - Tony’s exclusive U.S. representative - had arranged mounds of beautiful jewelry, a wonderfully creative idea. All of the women could touch and try on whatever pieces caught their fancy and believe me, it ALL caught MY fancy! Designer Tony White hails from Australia and his one-of-a-kind pieces have been exhibited all over the world and are included in the permanent collections of the National Gallery of Australia, the National Galley of Victoria (Melbourne) and many others. In addition he has been honored with one-man shows in NY, Washington, D.C., Chicago, Melbourne, Sydney and Perth. He believes in unusually carved, colored stones and massive exotic shaped and hued pearls (he was the first person to create multi-colored pearl necklaces that are so popular today). His collections include baroque pearls in gold, yellow, blue, white, silver and cocoa; very rare natural keishi pearls; English 18th century carved glass intaglios; fabulous moghul carved cabochons and magnificent colored gems from India, Ceylon and Madagascar; ancient beads dating back 3000 years and an important collection of precious opals. I’ve known Tony and Peter for a long time and besides having such a spectacular selection of jewelry, they are terrific men and work tirelessly for various charities around the world. Cate Blanchett, Nicole Kidman, Kylie Minogue, Evelyn Lauder and Carmen are fans. This event was hosted by Auxillary board members Toni Canada, Kerry Moriarty, Diana Peterson Makowski and Dustin O’Reagan. Beautiful guests included Karen Smith, board president Roxy Goebel, Mary Jean Reese, Christina Peters, Erin Brophy, Maria Smithburg, Ruth Beattie, Heather Johnson, Ann Lowe, Maria Cieciura, Karen Butler and others. AND, if you haven’t been to Prosecco yet, prepare yourself for romance! This charming space might be the most beautiful restaurant in town.  And the food is divine—throw in owners who really care (Kathryn Alevero and Jason Clark) and you have yourself a real winner! Photos from top right: Mary Jeanne Kneen, Auxiliary Board president Roxy Goebel and co-chair Kerry Moriarty; Tony White jewlery; Peter Martino, Me and Tony White; Prosecco Restaurant; Heather Farley and Karen Smith; Peter Martino and Toni Canada;  Maria Cieciura and Christina Peters; Christina Peters, Erin Brophy, Dustin O'Regan, Anne Lowe Brown and Jessica Nielson; Jason Clark, Peter Martino and Kathryn Alevero; fabulous tilapia dish; Heather Johnston and Tony White.   

The Sofitel Hotel was the place to be on Wednesday, April 15th, when friends gathered to celebrate the birthday of world renowned interior designer, John Regas. Organized by Paul Iacono and Andrew Mann, it was a happy and intimate group of life long friends who all adore and love John. They included Robert Rubinelli, Peter Kamberos, Kathy Stratton, Christine and Ernie Cochanis, Paul and Senya Kolpacke, Jim Zissis, Greg Malinowski, Jim Kabakovich, Sophia and Frank Klopas, Jayme Schenk, Paul Iacono, Pat Lauderdale, Don Poder, Frank Paul, Andrew Mann, Greg Hyder, Michale Wooley and Tom Wood. Chuck and I were very honored to be included. Chef Martial Noguier served an incredible four-course dinner while guests toasted this very special friend. John’s history reads like a fairy tale: He comes from a Greek Orthodox family of six (including a twin). His father wanted all of his sons to become lawyers and all of them passed the bar except for John who never took the test. He knew from the age of 16 that he wanted to be surrounded by beautiful things after cleaning and restoring an icon in his church. After this experience, he says, “it was that clear and that final.” He went on to earn a scholarship from the Art Institute of Chicago and in 1963, he opened a small shop called Bon Fils Antiques. In the first week of business he sold $45,000 in antiques. As a designer, his client list reads like a who’s who including American royalty. We wish him all of the best on his birthday and know he will continue making this world a more beautiful place. Photos from top right: Sofitel Chef Martial Noguier and John Regas; Kathy Stratton, Peter Kamberos and Frank Klopas; Andrew Mann and Frank Paul; Christine Cochanis, Senya Kolpacke and Paul Kolpacke; John Regas and Paul Iacono; Michael Wooley and Tom Wood; Jim Kabakovich, John Regas and Greg Malinowski.  
 
The “Breakfast at Tiffany Gala”/Ascot Ball will be held on June 26th but their cocktail reception to celebrate The English Speaking Union, was held at Tiffany & Co. last week. It brought out an A-list crowd who all came to support Gala chairs Lynn McMahan and Mamie Walton. Guests sipped on Tiffany blue colored martinis and voted for the piece of jewelry which Tiffany will donate for the event. The winner was their popular aquamarine ring with diamonds which will be auctioned off at the Ascot Ball at the Casino on June 26th. This event benefits the English Speaking Unions scholarship fund to enhance and further the teaching of William Shakespeare. Some of their exciting auction offerings will be an afternoon cruise and gourmet lunch on the luxury sailing yacht, The Grand Vizier, which was donated by Jim Kinney and Brian White. Stanley Paul will host a cocktail party on the terrace of his beautiful penthouse and Susan Gohl has donated a yacht party/cruise in Naples, Florida. There will be music and dancing to the Stanley Paul Orchestra. Tickets for “Breakfast at Tiffany’s/Ascot Ball” are available by calling or emailing Betty Melton (630) 241-2363 or bmeltonassoc@earthlink.net. Photos from top left: Cathy Elward, event co-chair Lynn McMahan, ESU president Brian White and event co-chair Mamie Walton; Megan McKinney, Bunky Cushing and Geri Shute; Dede Lubeznik, Sheryl Dyer and Heather Farley; Tiffany blue martinis were served; Bonnie Mitchell, Stanley Paul, me and Brian White; Joyce Sang; Ellen Wesley. For more photos from this event, click here.   

The premiere of the Harry Potter exhibit at the Museum of Science and Industry Tuesday night was beyond my wildest expectations. I must say, I consider myself one of the biggest Harry Potter fans on the planet  and this show blew me away. In a 10,000-square-foot exhibit space you can see over 200 artifacts from all of the Harry Potter films and some things you just couldn't imagine.....like being able to sit in one of Hagrid's oversized chairs inside his hut, viewing a life-size Buckbeak and centaur up close and personal, throwing quaffle balls into the Quidditch rings, the Ford Anglia “borrowed”  by Ron and Harry, seeing the Triwizard Cup and Harry's wand and glasses, props and artifacts from the Yule Ball, walking into the Great Hall and seeing for yourself those magical candles hanging from the ceiling, being sorted by the Sorting Hat (I was in Gryffindor) and even the Hogwart's Express!! The Museum of Science and Industry beat out 40 other institutions all vying for the honor of being the first to present this extraordinary collection of Harry Potter memorabilia.  It opened  Thursday, April 30th, and runs through September 27th. Tickets are $26 for adults and $19 for children age 3-11. I suggest you go early since some of the props will be removed for the filming of “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part One” (YES, there will be TWO more films for sure!) Prepare to be SORTED! :) Photos from top right: Harry Potter at the Museum of Science and Industry; flying Ford Anglia from "The Chamber of Secrets"; young wizards in training; Barb Malott Kizziah and Christine Ott.
 
Under the category of “why didn’t I think of that” comes a creative new idea in galoshes from Rebecca Miller. They're called Shuellas and they are like little umbrellas for your shoes! Chicago designer Miller was

frustrated that every time it would rain or there was inclement weather, she had nothing fashionable and functional to wear that would protect her shoes. She looked everywhere and couldn’t find anything suitable so she created them herself. Shuellas fit over heels or flats and are available in hot pink, apple green, buttercup yellow and classic black. They’re the perfect way to brighten up those dreary days. They come with a nonslip sole, carrying pouch and drying cloth for $49.95 and can be found here at Nordstrom or purchased online at www.Shuella.com. Thanks to crack PR whiz Lynne Bredfeldt, they have appeared in the New York Times style section as well as on "The Today Show" with Kathie Lee Gifford. Photos from top right: Shuella founder Rebecca Miller; a Shuella shoe cover.

And it wouldn’t be a good blog without a pic of my friend David Aminzadeh in La La Land…..here he is at a recent Playboy pajama party… :) Photo: David Aminzadeh attending a Playboy pajama party in Los Angeles.

I hope you all recognize the yellow orb up in the sky…..it’s called the sun for all of us who are unfamiliar with it…and now for another cheery little note, visit this link.
 
Have a wonderful week!

Love,
Candace :)