Author Archive for Dawn Bertuca
Born and raised in the Chicago area, Dawn Williams Bertuca is a freelance writer and editor. She is co-founder and Girlfriend-In-Chief at http://www.GirlfriendCelebrations.com Follow Dawn on twitter at http://www.twitter.com/GirlfriendCeleb
Indulge On The Go With Chicago Chocolate Tours
Looking for something different to do with the girls, or a surefire Mother’s Day gift? Women and chocolate go together like, well, women and chocolate (no explanation needed)! Add in a guided walking tour on some of Chicago’s most interesting streets, and you’ve got Chicago Chocolate Tours. Founded in 2005 by native Chicagoan Valerie Beck, [...]
Theatrical Fantasea Worth the Trip to Shedd
With sub-zero wind chills nipping your nose, visiting the Shedd Aquarium might not be the first thing on your mind. But the Shedd’s new Fantasea multimedia aquatic show is such a delight, it’s worth heading out into the wintry weather, especially if you need a respite from holiday madness. Set in the Shedd’s recently reopened [...]
Raise a Glass to Autumn at Lynfred Winery
On a dark and drizzly fall day, there is something comforting about a glass of wine. Red, white, sparkling, or even fruit-flavored, a glass of your favorite vintage and a roaring fireplace offer instant coziness. If you’re craving that cozy feeling and a wine-tasting adventure to boot, hop on the Metra or get in the [...]
Moondance Diner Makes a Marvelous Breakfast
It’s not easy to find a good breakfast and lunch spot in the suburbs, and when you do, you can expect to wait in line at prime breakfast times. So, it’s a good thing the Moondance Diner serves breakfast as early as 6:30 am, all the way up to it’s closing time of 2:30 pm. [...]
Kiddieland’s Last Hurrah
The classic lighted Kiddieland sign on North Avenue (across the street from Maywood Park race track) brings back a wave of memories from my childhood: Pushing the handcars under the clattering tracks of the white wooden roller coaster. Clanging the bell of a speedboat floating in real water. Shooting imaginary rayguns out the back of [...]
Be Scottish For a Day at Highland Games in Oak Brook
The lush green fields of the Oak Brook Polo Grounds become Scotland for a weekend each June when the Illinois St. Andrew Society hosts its annual Highland Games. The sound of bagpipes fills the air, and the mood is one of celebration. “This is the largest and best Scottish festival in the Midwest,” says Gus [...]
Girls Night Out for Charity at Juvenesse Spa
Girlfriends love to spa—and when they can spa for charity, they feel even better! Chicagonista and Girlfriend Celebrations recently hosted a Girls Night Out for Charity at Juvenesse Spa . It was a fantastic evening for girlfriends to network in the tranquil environs of Juvenesse, a hidden gem in the River North neighborhood of Chicago. All proceeds [...]
Don’t Miss the Blooms at Lilacia Park
The lilacs are blooming in Lombard, and if you hurry, you can catch their gorgeous display before they fade for another year. Whether you are looking for a quiet picnic spot, something to do with your toddler or preschooler on a weekday afternoon, or a beautiful place to grab coffee with a girlfriend, a day [...]
Girlfriendly Fun at Cosmos Beauty Bar
By Dawn Williams Bertuca Gabbing with girlfriends while getting a pedicure: Could anything be more relaxing? Yes! At Cosmos Beauty Bar, located in charming downtown Glen Ellyn,you can pamper yourself with a martini, cappuccino or champagne cocktail while your nails get gorgeous. Combining expert nail service with “the delightful addition of a full-service bar,” this [...]












