Heiji Choy Black

HEIJI CHOY BLACK

Mother of two and formerly the owner of the Wicker Park shop Hejfina

TOYS  I like wood toys. I’ve bought many from Hadley (1205 W. Webster Ave.; 773-883-0077) and from Building Blocks Toy Store (3306 N. Lincoln Ave., 773-525-6200; 2130 W. Division St., 773-235-1888), a great store with a huge stock. And I’ve picked up a few toys from Galt Toys + Galt Baby (900 N. Michigan Ave., 312-440-9550; also in Northbrook). CHILDREN’S FURNITURE  I’ve bought our cribs and changing tables from Grow (1943 W. Division St.; 773-489-0009). KIDS’ CLOTHING  There’s a website I love called MAKIÉ (makieclothier.com). They have beautiful boys’ clothing. WOMEN’S CLOTHING  Even when Hejfina was open, anything that I didn’t get from there came from Blake (212 W. Chicago Ave.; 312-202-0047). Online, I also shop lagarconne.com. JEWELRY  I’m a big fan of the selection at Barneys New York (15 E. Oak St.; 312-587-1700) and at Ikram (873 N. Rush St.; 312-587-1000). ART  I love abstract art, mostly contemporary. I’ve purchased art locally from the Shane Campbell Gallery (1431 W. Chicago Ave.; 312-226-2223) and Wright (1440 W. Hubbard St.; 312-563-0020). FACIALS  Karen Brody (1579 N. Milwaukee Ave.; 773-368-5567) has a holistic treatment based on Indian ashtanga pressure points and lymphatic draining. She is a master of eyebrows as well. MANICURES & PEDICURES  I go to a place called Cozy Nails (2735 N. Lincoln Ave.; 773-388-8810). It’s a neighborhood place, but it has an amazing spa pedicure. If I want to do something really luxurious with a friend, the Peninsula Spa (108 E. Superior St.; 312-337-2888) is amazing.

 

CAROL WALLACK

Chef/owner of Sola (3868 N. Lincoln Ave.; 773-327-3868)

CHEF KNIVES  I use Japanese knives that I get through a website called korin.com; Misono knives—a 10-inch chef’s and a paring knife—are what I use. PLATES  I buy plates at CB2 (800 W. North Ave.; 312-787-8329) because I like different shapes and sizes instead of sets. SWIMWEAR  Windward Sports (3317 N. Clark St.; 773-472-6868) has the best surf wear and fabulous swimwear for sporty girls. I also buy aloha shirts for my boyfriend—real ones, not the loud, flowery ones. I bought my nephew a skateboard there—great trucks and great wheels.

 

NICK VATTEROTT

Comedian (Oodlesofpun.com)

ELECTRONICS  I get my electronics at Best Buy (bestbuy.com). I mean, it says it right there. It’s the best buy. If there was a mom-and-pop shop called The Bestest Buy, I would go there. If there was a store called Best Buy and Also with Free Ice Cream, I would go there. But until that happens, I go to Best Buy. GIFTS I go to Uncle Fun (1338 W. Belmont Ave.; 773-477-8223). I like a store that I can walk into and say, ‘I’d like a suitcase full of eyeballs, please,’ and their response is, ‘Glow-in-the-dark or rubber?’

 

MIKE McNAMARA

Executive Director of the Midwest Independent Film Festival

INDIE FILMS My first stop is Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema (2828 N. Clark St.; 773-509-4949)—all of the indie films I want to see make it through that theatre at some point. And they butter their own popcorn, which is important. BOOZE There is only one place to buy booze in Chicago, and that is Green Grocer Chicago (1402 W. Grand Ave.; 312-624-9508). It’s loaded with organic and local wines and beers.

 

WHITNEY BURTON

Dance instructor at All About Dance (2214 N. Clark St.; 773-572-8701, Allaboutdance.org)

DANCE CLOTHING Chicago Dance Supply (5301 N. Clark St.; 773-728-5344) in Andersonville; Motion Unlimited Dancewear (218 S. Wabash Ave.; 312-922-3330); and discountdancesupply.com, which is reliable and fast.

 

Photograph: Andreas Larsson

GREGG SHIPP

The co-owner of Hifi Personal Fitness (1030 W. North Ave., Ste. 300; 312-751-1224, Hififitness.com)

GIFTS  Elevenzees (1901 W. Division St.; 773-772-1150) is great for housewarming gifts, baby gifts, candles. Renegade Handmade (1924 W. Division St.; 773-227-2707): It’s fun to uncover new stuff there. Last year I gave Barack Obama and Bob Ross (remember him from the Joy of Painting) finger puppets by Abbychristine. TATTOOS  Mat Moreno is my guy at Insight Studios (1062 N. Milwaukee Ave.; 773-342-4444). He’s a genius.

 

STAN BOWMAN

General Manager of the Chicago Blackhawks

HOCKEY STUFF  My go-to place for equipment is Gunzo’s (7706 W. Madison St., River Forest, 708-771-8666; also in Morton Grove). ICE RINK  My boys—Will is seven and Camden is four—both play at Johnny’s IceHouse (1350 W. Madison St.; 312-226-5555). GOLF COURSE  I am a huge golfer. My favorite course is probably Conway Farms Golf Club (425 S. Conway Farms Dr., Lake Forest; 847-234-6979). KIDS’ CLOTHES & GIFTS  My boys love almost anything Paul Frank, so we shop at the store in Lincoln Park (851 W. Armitage Ave.; 773-388-3122).

 

JILL ALBERTS

Jewelry designer

WOMEN’S CLOTHING  In Highland Park, where I live, I shop at SHE Boutique (483 Central St., Highland Park; 847-926-0150). Their stuff is young and kind of edgy. My secret shopping source is theoutnet.com: It sells after-season designer clothes from its sister site, netaporter.com. A beautiful Calvin Klein black jersey dress, originally $3,000, was on sale for $300. VINTAGE FURNISHINGS  I go to Anna’s Mostly Mahogany (531 Bank Ln., Highwood; 847-432-9151), which is a huge antique consignment store. It’s so reasonably priced, it’s crazy. The Find (9 Highwood Ave., Highwood; 847-266-1700) is a little higher end.

 

ERWIN HELFER

Jazz and blues pianist and instructor

SHEET MUSIC  Coulsons Music Matters (75-77 E. Van Buren St.; 312-461-1989) for jazz and classical. Performers Music (410 S. Michigan Ave., Ste. 904; 312-987-1196) for classical sheet music and books. PIANOS  The sellers that I know personally are very fair: Family Piano Co. (114 S. Genesee St., Waukegan; 847-775-1988) and Kurt Saphir Pianos (123 Green Bay Rd., Wilmette; 847-256-5225). Kurt Saphir is terrific; I’ve known him for ages. BIKE MAINTENANCE  I still have a license but no car. And I am not a good driver, so I stick to the bike—currently a vintage Schwinn. At Quick Release Bike Shop (1527 N. Ashland Ave.; 773-871-3110), Joe is my guy—for bikes and bike repair, this guy couldn’t be greater.

 

AMY TRAGER

Professional organizer

ORGANIZING AND STORAGE SUPPLIES  U-Haul (uhaul.com) has the best deals for boxes and packing material. CLOSET ORGANIZER  For a built-in unit, I recommend Closet Works (2000 N. Clybourn Ave.; 773-244-9700). HOSTESS GIFTS  1730 OUTLET COMPANY (1730 W. Wrightwood Ave.; 773-871-4331) is a great little outlet store that sells designer home décor and furniture.

Nate Berkus

NATE BERKUS

Interior designer

VINTAGE  I love Designer Resale (658 N. Dearborn St.; 312-587-3312) for vintage Hermès and Chanel. I also love the Broadway Antique Market (6130 N. Broadway; 773-743-5444) and Edgewater Antique Mall (6314 N. Broadway; 773-262-2525) and usually make an afternoon out of scouting around there. The highlights are amazing one-of-a-kind gifts. I like finding vintage coffee-table books there, too. Other recent finds include a vintage Gucci dice cup that I use for pens, ’30s brass photo frames, and beautiful pottery. stationery  I just ordered custom stationery from Kneen & Co. (400 W. Erie St., Ste. 503; 312-787-7003). MEN’S ACCESSORIES  Charvet knit silk ties—the skinny, preppy ones—from Neiman Marcus (737 N. Michigan Ave.; 312-642-5900) are a recent obsession.

 

MARIA PINTO

Fashion designer and the owner of Maria Pinto (135 N. Jefferson St.; 312-648-1330, MariaPinto.com)

WOMEN’S CLOTHING  Because I do such a range in my collections, I usually only buy very casual clothes. G-Star Raw (1525 N. Milwaukee Ave.; 773-342-2623) is one of my favorite stores, and I like the knitwear at Blake (212 W. Chicago Ave.; 312-202-0047). SHOES  Barneys New York (15 E. Oak St.; 312-587-1700) sees a lot of me because I’m a shoe-aholic. One of my favorite brands is Alexandra Neel. Last season I bought YSL platforms and Ann Demeulemeester boots. FURNITURE  Haute Living (222 W. Kinzie St.; 312-329-9000) has beautiful contemporary furniture from Europe. FLOWERS  My florist is Green (1718 N. Wells St.; 312-266-2806). The owner, Inara, is an amazing woman. I just say, ‘send something beautiful’ and it’s always spectacular.

 

BILLY DEC

Nightlife entrepreneur

MEN’S CLOTHING  Most of the time it looks like I get my clothes from The Salvation Army and other thrift stores, because I do. On the other hand, I also enjoy designing a handmade suit at Oxxford (1220 W. Van Buren St.; 312-829-3600) with a custom hat at Optimo (10215 S. Western Ave.; 773-238-2999). In the middle of [those] extremes, I dig Chicago boutiques with owners who live it, like p+L Boutique (2956 N. Clark St.; 773-248-3758) and Bonnie & Clyde’s (1751 W. Division St.; 773-235-2680). HOME  For me, it’s all about the kitchen—cooking and entertaining in it. Smartrooms (222 Merchandise Mart Plaza; 312-644-4446) helped me design the most beautiful kitchen ever, with custom Wood-Mode cabinetry throughout and top-of-the-line Viking equipment.

 

BUNKY CUSHING

Man-about-town

MEN’S CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES  These are my preppy must-haves: A navy blue wool blazer with gold buttons (you can have them monogrammed) from Brooks Brothers (713 N. Michigan Ave.; 312-915-0060). Bills khakis from B.A.D. Custom Clothiers (401-663-6544). In Chicago, they will come to you for fittings. Jean Schlumberger enamel cuff links at Tiffany & Co. (730 N. Michigan Ave.; 312-944-7500). And a hand-engraved signet ring from Van Cleef & Arpels (636 N. Michigan Ave.; 312-944-8988). STATIONERY  All She Wrote (825 W. Armitage Ave.; 773-529-0100) does my holiday cards and correspondence cards. I usually pick a flat card with plaids or stripes and my name or monogram. GIFTS  I love something with a duck motif from Orvis (142 E. Ontario St.; 312-440-0662). THRIFT SHOPS  Lake Forest Hospital Resale Shop (653 N. Bank Ln., Lake Forest; 847-234-0539) has great preppy castoffs. I got Carolyne Roehm’s A Passion for Flowers for $3. That was my best find.

 

HILLARY FENTON

Makeup artist

MAKEUP  Usually Sephora (sephora.com), either in Water Tower or Old Orchard. MAC PRO (910 W. Armitage Ave.; 773-327-4902) is for professional makeup artists, but anyone can go there. Online, I like camerareadycosmetics.com. They have pretty much every kind of makeup that can stand up against hot lights.

 

Photograph: Jeff Sciortino

Jason Pickleman

JASON PICKLEMAN

Graphic designer

TYPOGRAPHY  I like typography.com and t26.com. ART  My number one store for inspiration is Golden Age (1744 W. 18th St.; 312-850-2574) in Pilsen. The last thing I bought was a hand-silk-screened poster that looked like it came from the Bauhaus in the 1930s but was made by a bunch of art kids right down the street, and it was $30. Rotofugi (1953 W. Chicago Ave.; 312-491-9501) blows my mind. In the gallery next door, they sell fine art made by the same people who are designing the toys. Devening Projects + Editions (3039 W. Carroll Ave.; 312-420-4720) sells limited editions, and the prices on those tend to be very reasonable. It has a sculpture that I’m pining for by Tony Tasset—a plaster replica of a mud pie topped with a hand-painted leaf made of brass. It’s exquisite. MEN’S CLOTHING  My most recent discovery is Kokorokoko (1112 N. Ashland Ave.; 773-252-6996). They specialize in clothes from the ’80s and ’90s.

 

GARY WIVIOTT

BBQ expert and the author of Low & Slow: Master the Art of Barbecue in 5 Easy Lessons

GRILLING EQUIPMENT  There are three stores I like: Russo Ace Hardware (5848 W. Montrose Ave.; 773-777-2606), the BBQ Pit at Armitage Direct (925 W. Armitage Ave.; 773-348-3267), and The BackYard BBQ Store (1147 Greenleaf Ave., Wilmette; 847-251-2272). CHARCOAL  I use Royal Oak natural lump charcoal, which I buy at this cool-as-hell shop called Berger Brothers (1176 N. Cherry Ave.; 312-642-4238).  MEAT  I like Twin Oak Meats (11197 N. 2300 East Rd., Fairbury; 815-692-4215) and, on the opposite end of the sustainable farming spectrum, Peoria Packing (1300 W. Lake St.; 312-738-1800). It’s spotless, and they butcher for free. Al’s Meat Market of Wilmette (1165 Wilmette Ave., Wilmette; 847-256-0070) is a fantastic old-school butcher. COOKWARE  Gold Brothers (1140 W. Madison St.; 312-666-1520) is inexpensive and open to the public. BARBECUE  Honey 1 BBQ (2241 N. Western Ave.; 773-227-5130) and Uncle John’s Barbecue (337 E. 69th St.; 773-892-1233) are real artists—straight wood only on their pits.

 

BRIAN GRAVES

Artist and Chicago Public Schools teacher

SHOES  I’m a retro sneaker freak. The Adidas Originals Store (923 N. Rush St.; 312-932-0651) not only has old-school sneakers but also great bags and hoodies. ART SUPPLIES  I get most of my art supplies at Blick Art Materials (1574 N. Kingsbury St.; 312-573-0110). MUSIC  I find rare mixes and dance compilations at Borderline MUSIC (3333 N. Broadway; 773-975-9533) in Lake View. BOOKS  I teach in Hyde Park; 57th Street Books (1301 E. 57th St.; 773-684-1300) is a treasure. I love the staff suggestions. GIFTS  The Chicago History Museum Store (1601 N. Clark St.; 312-642-4600) is a wonderful place for small gifts with a Chicago theme. RUNNING APPAREL  The Runner’s Edge (5243 N. Clark St., 773-649-0853; also in Wilmette and Libertyville) is a great store for the city athlete. HOBBY STORE  Grayland Station (5514 W. Devon Ave.; 773-594-1906) is a must if you have a child who loves model trains.

 

TEREASA SURRATT

Creative Director at Ogilvy & Mather

THRIFT SHOPS  I am thrift, flea, and one-of-a-kind obsessed. The Salvation Army at Grand Avenue (509 N. Union Ave.; 312-738-4360) is the mother lode of Salvation Armies in Chicago. I love The ARK Thrift Shop (1302 N. Milwaukee Ave., 773-862-5011).  VINTAGE CLOTHING I like Pistol Bazaar (1717 W. Chicago Ave.; 312-929-2350) and Very Best Vintage (1919 W. Chicago Ave.; 312-226-5530), both in Ukrainian Village. DISCOUNT  I love Fort Pitt Furniture Liquidators (1400 W. 37th St.; 773-247-3523) for randomness and Textile Discount Outlet (2121 W. 21st St.; 773-847-0572) for fabrics, textiles, and unfinished hides. COLLECTIBLES  Stop! Look! Oddments (1305 N. Western Ave.) is my favorite full-on dumpster diving paradise. Tiny hole in the wall off Division and not for the weak. Wear gloves. Penn Dutchman Antiques (4912 N. Western Ave.; 773-271-2208) is a well-kept secret and hodgepodge of everything imaginable. SALVAGE  So is Jans Antiques (225 N. Racine Ave.; 312-563-0275)—higher prices but huge inventory of good architectural salvage.

 

ART SMITH

Chef and co-owner of Table Fifty-Two (52 W. Elm St.; 312-573-4000, TableFifty-Two.com)

KNIVES Northwestern Cutlery (810 W. Lake St.; 312-421-3666) is the place for fancy Japanese and German knives. Every chef goes there. GYM  My new favorite gym is David Barton Gym (600 W. Chicago Ave.; 312-836-9127). I recently lost 60 pounds, so the gym is my new conference room. I give memberships as gifts now.

 

Photograph: Andreas Larsson

Zoe Ryan

ZOE RYAN

The design curator for the Art Institute of Chicago

WOMEN’S CLOTHING  I shop at Jake (939 N. Rush St.; 312-664-5553), Barneys New York (15 E. Oak St.; 312-587-1700), and Barneys CO-OP (2209 N. Halsted St.; 773-248-0426) for [Maison] Martin Margiela shoes. Online, [I like] A.P.C. (usonline.apc.fr). I love No. 6 (No6Store.com) boots, and I love Zero + Maria Cornejo (zeromariacornejo.com). She does these beautiful shapes and forms, but they’re very flattering to the figure. VINTAGE FURNITURE  I absolutely adore Post 27 (1819 W. Grand Ave.; 312-829-6122). The condition of the work is really good, and they’re very honest. PURSES  I love Marni handbags (marni.com). I buy lots of vintage bags from the Randolph Street Market (randolphstreetmarket.com). WEDDING GIFTS  Tableware from Luminaire (301 W. Superior St.; 312-664-9582).

  

Kara Mann

KARA MANN

Interior designer

WOMEN’S CLOTHING  Netaporter.com is one of my favorite sites—great shoes and clothing by top designers. It’s a resource for me when I need a dress for a party; they ship [your purchases] to you in these beautifully wrapped black boxes. I also shop at couturelab.com, which sells high-end designer clothing, jewelry, and decorative objects. The last thing I bought was a L’Wren Scott dress—black, sexy, and lacy. HOME DÉCOR  I love DouglasRosin Decorative Arts (730 N. Wells St.; 312-337-6556) for antiques, vintage pieces, and amazing jewelry. I recently bought a gilt mirror for my powder room. Another one of my favorites is Caste (521 N. Halsted St.; 312-432-0717). Ty Best is ridiculously talented—he makes one-of-a-kind furniture pieces, paintings, and jewelry. I have this gorgeous, huge, off-the-hook-crazy ring carved from ebony and candlesticks made from bronze.

 

PETER SAGAL

Host of NPR’s Wait, Wait … Don’t Tell Me! and a columnist for Runner’s World

RUNNING GEAR  I am a big fan of Fleet Feet Sports (1620 N. Wells St., 312-587-3338; 4555 N. Lincoln Ave., 773-271-3338), which put me in the shoes that I’ve been wearing for five years and six marathons. I also like The Competitive Foot (102 N. Marion St., Oak Park; 708-524-0030). ELECTRONICS  I remain a fan of Abt (1200 N. Milwaukee Ave., Glenview; 888-228-5800) because it is an old-school family business, and there’s not a lot of that left. MUSIC  I love Val’s halla Records (239 W. Harrison St., Oak Park; 708-524-1004). The only problem is she’s so friendly, we can’t get out of there in under 20 minutes. BOOKS  Our family spends an awful lot of money at The Book Table (1045 Lake St., Oak Park; 708-386-9800). GIFTS  Fly Bird (719 Lake St., Oak Park; 708-383-3330). BIKES  Upgrade Cycle Works (1130 W. Chicago Ave.; 312-226-8650) sells to a lot of bike messengers, and it’s run by young, serious bikers. I ended up getting a Felt [bicycle]. I really love it.

 

MELISSA SERPICO KAMHOUT

Independent fashion designer and the owner of Serpico (1514 N. Ashland Ave.; 773-252-5940, Serpico-Collection.com)

JEWELRY  Accessorize Chicago (5 E. Superior St.; 312-482-9780) is a really tiny store, but they do a great job buying, and it’s pretty inexpensive.

 

KELLY RUDNICKI

Suburban mom and the author of The Food Allergy Mama’s Baking Book

MATERNITY  I like Belly Dance Maternity (1849 Green Bay Rd., Highland Park, 847-926-0053; also in Chicago). This is my fifth pregnancy, so I am really treating myself to all the trendy brands—Paige and NOM—you can’t find anywhere else. MAKEUP  I am a Laura Mercier makeup girl. I go to Nordstrom (4937 Old Orchard Shopping Center, Skokie; 847-677-2121). They are color and skin pros. EYEGLASSES  Two of my kids wear glasses, so I go in every week for adjustments. I swear by Superior Optical (2723 Pfingsten Rd., Glenview; 847-564-3838). KIDS’ STUFF I have purchased every stroller, but right now I am into the B.O.B.—the strongest, easiest stroller. I got it at Lazar’s Juvenile Furniture (6557 N. Lincoln Ave., Lincolnwood; 847-679-6146). They put it together, too. BEAUTY  I get threaded and waxed by Shamiran at Gina Salon (3756 W. Dempster St., Skokie; 847-679-8036).

 

Photography: (Ryan) Katrina Wittkamp, (Mann) Tony Soluri

AMANDA PUCK

Public relations maven

WOMEN’S CLOTHING  You might find me at Forever 21 (forever21.com), scooping up a trend of the moment. I bought a feathered collar at Zara (zara.com) and it made my outfit. I am always a hi-low girl. HOME DÉCOR  I love all the home stores in Andersonville. I recently got giant pink and purple glass brandy snifters at Roost (5634 N. Clark St.; 773-506-0406).

 

LORIN ADOLPH

Personal chef

GOURMET FOOD  I love The Fishguy Market (4423 N. Elston Ave.; 773-283-7400). Recently, I went with friends who were looking for sardines, and I found the most beautiful fatty Berkshire pork chops. For cheese, many people know about Pastoral Artisan Cheese, Bread & Wine (2945 N. Broadway; 773-472-4781). But I love its amazingly curated selection of June Taylor marmalades and conserves, Taza chocolates, Katz apple-cider vinegars, and Iberico ham, which in the harsh cold of a Chicago winter could wrap you in its porky, fatty goodness as nicely as cashmere.

 

AUDREY GAYNOR

Family-practice lawyer and founder of Audrey L. Gaynor & Associates

WOMEN’S CLOTHING  I like fashion that I can get away with for the courtroom. I live for the personal shopper at Saks Fifth Avenue (700 N. Michigan Ave.; 312-944-6500) in the Fifth Avenue Club. I was just turned on to a new store in Evanston called Chalk (2611 Prairie Ave., Evanston; 847-424-0011). Robin Richman (2108 N. Damen Ave.; 773-278-6150) is also a treasure. GIFTS  My favorite place to buy a gift is Elements (741 N. Wells St.; 312-642-6574)—jewelry, wedding gifts, and scarves.

 

JEFFREY CASSENS

Senior stylist at the Marianne Strokirk Salons (361 W. Chestnut St., 312-640-0101, MarianneStrokirk.com)

GIFTS  I love June Blaker (870 N. Orleans St.; 312-751-9220): butterflies, walking sticks, beetles. All gorgeous.

 

GREG JAGMIN

Interior designer

CARDS  For cards and little unexpected items, I love to go to Twosided (2958 N. Clark St.; 773-244-6431) in Lake View or Foursided (5061 N. Clark St.; 773-506-8300) in Andersonville. NAUTICAL DÉCOR  West Marine (627 W. North Ave.; 312-654-1818) sells amazing hardware, a huge selection of nautical flags, clocks, and storage solutions for small, tight spaces. VINTAGE FURNITURE  A great place is Revival (1401 W. Irving Park Rd.; 773-248-1211). From architectural columns and fireplace mantels to one-of-a-kind lamps, you are bound to find something for your home; everything is affordable. FABRIC  For those in the know, Fishman’s Fabrics (1101 S. Desplaines St.; 312-922-7250) is a godsend: They recently remodeled, so finding the right fabric is even easier.

ROOPA WEBER

Senior Vice President at Ariel Investments

CLOTHING  Helen Yi (1645 N. Damen Ave.; 773-252-3838) for a stylish and modern look and cool accessories. SWIMWEAR  Londo Mondo (1100 N. Dearborn St., 312-751-2794; also in Lincoln Park) KIDS’ CLOTHING  Madison and Friends/The Denim Lounge (43 E. Oak St.; 312-642-6403). One-stop shopping for moms and kids.

 

BRIDGID NOLAN

Co-owner of Unleashed (1535 N. Dayton St.; 312-475-9910, UnleashedPups.com), a dog day care and boarding service

PET SUPPLIES  Before I owned my own place, I would get most of my dog food, collars, and leashes at little boutiques like Soggy Paws (1912 S. State St., 312-808-0768; 1148 W. Leland Ave., 773-334-7663; 2526 W. Armitage Ave., 773-295-1563). For fancy dog beds and indulgences, I would go to Doggy Style (2023 W. Division St.; 773-235-9663).

 

JEN HANSEN

Director of Operations and Marketing at Le Colonial (937 N. Rush St..; 312-255-0088)

WEDDING GIFTS  I went to nine weddings last year. If I know the couple well, I love to take a photo of them and use mydavinci.com to have a Warhol portrait or sketch made from it. I also have given dancing classes from All About Dance (2214 N. Clark St.; 773-572-8701) and cooking classes from The Chopping Block (4747 N. Lincoln Ave., 773-293-8490; Merchandise Mart Plaza, 312-644-6360). WEDDING DRESSES  I have never met someone who hasn’t found something at WhiteCHICAGO (222 W. Huron St.; 312-397-1571).

 

DUSTY STEMER

The mother of Brian Atwood, an internationally known shoe designer

TABLEWARE  I love dishes. [They’re] my addiction. If I could have a dinner party without cooking, I would—I love to set tables. Neiman Marcus (737 N. Michigan Ave.; 312-642-5900) has exquisite dishware. I love to mix and match my plates. Versace is glamorous; I like Vietri by the pool.

 

DANN WITCZAK and NATASHA SPENCER

Art installation and collection consultants

ART GALLERY  We really enjoy going to Home Gallery (1407 E. 54th Pl.; 773-710-5964), a gallery inside a home in Hyde Park. The owners are a couple with kids, and they have these shows of artists in a setting that helps one envision how things will be in an actual home. TOOLS  Dann gets his tools at japanwoodworker.com. HOME DÉCOR  Beautiful photo frames with easel backs that are handcrafted in Romania are available at MCM Fine Framing (2019 N. Damen Ave.; 773-252-7525) and Armand Lee & Company (840 N. Milwaukee Ave.; 312-455-1200). GIFTS  Lilleashop.com is a great place to find well-designed, well-crafted gifts.

BRICE COOPER

Interior designer

HOME DÉCOR  Antiquearchaeology.com scours the country for the coolest junk known to man. Ask for Mike [Wolfe], and he will find you the perfect piece. VINTAGE U.S. #1 Vintage Clothing (1460 N. Milwaukee Ave.; 773-489-9428) has the best selection of vintage motorcycle jackets and boots in the city.

 

JACQUELINE EDELBERG

City mom and the author of How to Walk to School: Blueprint for a Neighborhood School Renaissance

THRIFT SHOPS  My favorite is The Brown Elephant (3651 N. Halsted St.; 773-549-5943) in Lake View. The entire Ultimo fall line was there once—best day ever. I also love Village Discount Outlet (2043 W. Roscoe St.; 866-545-3836) in Roscoe Village for kids’ clothes. For furniture, I like the White Elephant Resale Shop (2380 N. Lincoln Ave.; 773-883-6184) in Lincoln Park. It gets all of the goodies from the housewares show. Le Crueset for a song.

 

DEBI LILLY

Event planner and the owner of A Perfect Event (3050 N. Lincoln Ave.; 773-244-9333, APerfectEvent.com)

FURNITURE AND HOME DÉCOR  Sample sales at the Merchandise Mart (222 Merchandise Mart Plaza; 312-527-4141) are not to be missed, even if you’re just browsing for the hot new seasonal trends . [The next sample sale is May 10th and 11th.] P.O.S.H. (613 N. State St.; 312-280-1602) is the most amazing source for everything tabletop. VINTAGE FURNITURE  Chicago Antique Centre (3036 N. Lincoln Ave.; 773-929-0200) is a daily habit. My shop is filled with treasures from Brownstone Antiques (5234 N. Clark St.; 773-878-9800) as well. WOMEN’S CLOTHING  Perchance (3512 N. Southport Ave.; 773-244-1300) is my go-to for everything chic. GIFTS  Everyone should covet Branca (17 E. Pearson St.; 312-202-1019).

 

BILL SHORES

Gardening guru

CONTAINERS  City Escape (3022 W. Lake St.; 773-638-2000), Sprout Home (745 N. Damen Ave.; 312-226-5950), and Grand Street Gardens (2200 W. Grand Ave.; 312-829-8200). Menards (menards.com) is great for self-watering containers. DIRT & COMPOST  Brew & Grow (1824 N. Besly Ct., 773-395-1500; also in Bolingbrook and Roselle), Gethsemane Garden Center (5739 N. Clark St.; 773-878-5915), and Lake Street Landscape Supply (1810 W. Lake St.; 312-226-0760). TROPICAL PLANTS  Logees.com IRRIGATION SUPPLIES  Dripworks.com SPECIALTY GREENS, HERBS, AND ORGANIC SEED  Johnnyseeds.com

 

DAVID LESLIE ANTHONY

Fashion photographer

PHOTO SUPPLIES At Central Camera Company (230 S. Wabash Ave.; 312-427-5580) you can find old 16-millimeter cameras, European film, and batteries for cameras they don’t even make anymore. For high-end lighting equipment, I go to Helix Camera & Video (310 S. Racine Ave.; 312-421-6000) or Calumet Photographic (1111 N. Cherry Ave.; 312-440-4920). MEN’S SHOES  Alternatives (900 N. Michigan Ave.; 312-266-1545) carries great Italian lines. The men’s shoes average around $300 a pair. But you can spend the same amount of money on a lot of crap.

KASIA KAY

Art gallery owner

HOME DÉCOR  I’m a passionate art collector, and I do not like to clutter my home. [But] I do like I.D. (3337 N. Halsted St.; 773-755-4343). I like IKEA (ikea.com) candles. They last long, they smell good, and they remind me of Europe. Arrelle Fine Linens (445 N. Wells St.; 312-321-3696) in River North carries very beautiful linens, blankets, pillows, and soaps.

 

ABIGAIL RUTHERFORD

Director of Vintage Couture and Accessories at Leslie Hindman Auctioneers (1338 W. Lake St.; 312-280-1212, LeslieHindman.com)

VINTAGE CLOTHING  Obviously, Leslie Hindman, because there are some great finds that are incredibly affordable. Deliciously Vintage (1747 S. Halsted St.; 312-733-0407) carries items from the 1940s to the 1990s and follows the trends. I bought a couple of sequined tops there that were fantastic. Silver Moon (1721 W. North Ave.; 773-235-5797) has some really cool stuff. The owner works a lot of the 18th- and 19th-century pieces into beautiful, more modern styles. I also shop at Sofia Vintage Clothing & Accessories (1165 N. Clark St.; 312-640-0878).

 

CASSIE GREEN

An owner of Green Grocer Chicago (1402 W. Grand Ave.; 312-624-9508, GreenGrocerChicago.com)

FARMERS’ MARKET The Green City Market (chicagogreencitymarket.org) in Lincoln Park is my personal favorite. FACIALS Every service I’ve gotten at Urban Spa Chic (1401 W. Hubbard St.; 312-492-8050) has been top-notch, and Dayna [DeLaurentis], the owner, now uses a nice line of organic skin care. JEWELRY I’ve gotten some amazing jewelry as gifts from Greenheart (1911 W. Division St.; 312-264-1625). Every item has a story.

 

BRUCE SHERMAN

The executive chef and partner at North Pond (2610 N. Cannon Dr.; 773-477-5845, NorthPondRestaurant.com)

WATCHES  I have quite a few watches. I shop for them at the MoMAstore (momastore.org) in New York and at the Museum of Contemporary Art (220 E. Chicago Ave.; 312-280-2660). I’m also not above Swatches, which I use for work every day [Swatch (swatch.com)]. JEWELRY  The Mexican Shop (801 Dempster St., Evanston; 847-475-8665) has great jewelry. I go there often for my wife and daughter.

 

TERRY LEDFORD

Owner of the White Attic (5225 N. Clark St., 773-907-9800; 1842 N. Damen Ave., 773-252-8844; TheWhiteAttic.com)

FLEA MARKETS  Grayslake Antique Market (Grayslake County Fairgrounds, 1060 E. Peterson Rd., Grayslake) is super fun and has a wide range of antiques.

JIM DEROGATIS

Pop music critic for the Chicago Sun-Times and cohost of Chicago Public Radio’s Sound Opinions

AUDIO EQUIPMENT  I’m a big believer in Saturday Audio Exchange (1021 W. Belmont Ave.; 773-935-4434). They lovingly restore great turntables and such. MUSIC  The Old School Records (7446 W. Madison St., Forest Park; 708-366-7588) for dusty soul classics; Vintage Vinyl (925 Davis St., Evanston; 847-328-2899) for really obscure progressive and psychedelic rock; and Reckless Records (3126 N. Broadway, 773-404-5080; 1532 N. Milwaukee Ave., 773-235-3727; 26 E. Madison St., 312-795-0878) for some cool single or import. My favorite general record store, because of the people, is Laurie’s Planet of Sound (4693 N. Lincoln Ave.; 773-271-3569). MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS  I am a drummer, and Andy’s Music (2300 W. Belmont Ave.; 773-868-1234) has everything you need, from giant German gongs to the right pair of nylon tip 5a sticks. There’s a guitar place that is similar—Fat Cat Guitars (2271 Randall Rd., Carpentersville; 847-844-8844).

 

EMMANUEL NONY

The owner of Sepia (123 N. Jefferson St.; 312-441-1920, SepiaChicago.com)

MEN’S CLOTHING  I do a lot of shopping in France and in New York. Here in Chicago, I like Diesel jeans (923 N. Rush St.; 312-255-0157). ACCESSORIES  I like the store Habit (1951 W. Division St.; 773-342-0093), which is owned by Lindsey Boland, our chef’s wife. She has some fun unisex belts. TIES  It goes between the local designer Lee Allison (leeallison.com) and Maria Pinto (135 N. Jefferson St.; 312-648-1350). She has a formal series with beautiful material that I use for gala events with tuxedos. WATCHES  David Yurman (40 E. Oak St.; 312-787-7779): I really love their watches. TABLEWARE  I love Geneviève Lethu (900 N. Michigan Ave.; 312-423-9948). It reminds me of home. FURNITURE  I like Primitive (130 N. Jefferson St.; 312-575-9600). They do Asian and African antiques. You can go crazy at Architectural Artifacts (4325 N. Ravenswood Ave.; 773-348-0622); there are so many beautiful things.