Category Archives: Shopping

Chicago Startup Shurpa Guarantees You’ll Receive Your Packages

Have you ever ordered something online and worried whether your package would be at your door waiting? Have you ever missed a birthday present from your mom because it couldn’t be found at your door step? Many Chicago buildings don’t have doormen who will collect deliveries, leaving residents’ packages at risk of theft or misplacement.

Ben Fornell, Lakeview resident, noticed his packages often went missing. Since he lived in a building without a doorman, he took a bet on whether every Amazon order would show up. Ben’s entrepreneurial spirit kicked in and he seized the opportunity to make the shipping process safer, simpler and more trustworthy for Chicago’s residents.

Ben started Shurpa in the summer of 2014, prepping for the holiday shipment season. Shurpa works like this – you ship to their address (a Lincoln Park storefront) as your shipping address with a unique code that is issued to you when you enroll. When Shurpa receives the package, they identify your parcels with the code, and send an automated text message allowing you to schedule delivery when you’re actually home. When convenient for you, a courier will bring the package directly to you – no hassle of waiting by your door step all day.

Shurpa Delivery Storefront

“This makes it so much easier for busy Chicagoans,” Ben explains. “There’s always someone to sign for your package, and if you’re not home until 10:30 p.m. we’ll still deliver it directly to you.” Shurpa delivers between the hours of 6 p.m. – 11 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, and 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Saturdays. This way your work and travel schedule doesn’t hinder you from receiving your packages in a convenient and timely fashion.

How do you get started? Visit shurpadelivery.com to sign up for your unique shipping code. Enter your preferred delivery time and a courier will deliver the package in your hands, when you’re actually home. Typical pricing is $4 for your first package, and $1 more for each additional package in the same delivery. Social sharing is encouraged, and will earn you free delivery.

Shurpa Delivery Courier

“Shurpa brings joy and security back to online shopping,” says Ben. They can service residents in older buildings and cover quite a bit of ground (their delivery boundaries are Montrose to the north, Pulaski and Kedzie to the west, Roosevelt and 16^th to the south, and the lake to the east). The goal is for everyone in Chicago to be able to take advantage of Shurpa’s services.

{Photos courtesy of Shurpa}

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Get into the Halloween Spirit: Chicago Edition

Looking outside this week – the leaves have changed to vibrant reds and oranges, the temperatures have dipped just below “sweater weather” and you’ve nearly outdone yourself with the Pumpkin Spice Lattes. As days turn into nights, that chilly, eerie feeling arises and you know for sure – it’s almost Halloween. With the holiday quickly approaching, here are 5 things to do in Chicago to get you in the Halloween spirit.

Halloween Spirit: Scary and Creepy Movies

Chicago Edition: Rocky Horror Picture Show at Music Box Theatre (3733 N. Southport)

Scary movies are one of the best ways to get yourself into the Halloween spirit. Whether you are a fan of gory films, or classic, bone-chilling cinematic features, a movie allows you to escape for a little while into a different world. To enter that world in Chicago, head to The Music Box Theatre, where premiere independent and foreign films have been shown for the last 20 years. Halloween brings showings of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, including live actors, sing-alongs and props to throw around. If you’re not familiar with The Rocky Horror Picture Show, it’s a campy film from the 70s that has inspired a following of fans for years. Its kooky plot is unlike any movie you’ve seen before – head the The Music Box Theatre and you’ll be fully immersed in the experience. For more information and to purchase tickets click here.

rocky horror

Halloween Spirit: Caramel Apples and Halloween Treats

Chicago Edition: Andrew’s Caramel Apples (5001 W. Belmont)

When it comes to Halloween, everyone thinks of candy and tasty Halloween treats, such as popcorn, candy and caramel apples. A great place to get caramel apples in Chicago is Andrew’s Caramel Apples. This family owned business is known for selling their candy apples by the case – they cover the apples in classic caramel and peanuts. For more information on pricing and ordering call (773) 286-2224.

caramel apples

Halloween Spirit: Pumpkin Carving and Decorating

Chicago Edition: Pumpkin Carving Party at Sheffield’s (3258 N. Sheffield)

Another great Halloween tradition is pumpkin carving. In addition to having a great display at your doorstep, you can bake the seeds from the pumpkin. Pumpkin carving brings family and friends together while giving you an opportunity to show off your creative side, perhaps with a classic Jack-o-Lantern style, or a special carving… even adding your own signature flare. On Thursday, October 23, 2014, starting at 6 p.m., Sheffield’s Beer and Wine Garden hosts their annual pumpkin carving event, for free. During the event Pumpkin Beer will be on tap and there will be specials on hot mulled cider. To learn more click here. Get there early to reserve your pumpkin!

Halloween Spirit: Dressing up for Halloween

Chicago Edition: Shopping at Fantasy Costumes (4065 N. Milwaukee)

One of the best parts about Halloween is being able to dress up in a costume and hit the town – showing off your creativity with your friends. Instead of running last minute into one of the Halloween pop-up shops, make a visit to Fantasy Costumes, a well-known costume shop that has been located on the North side of Chicago for over 45 years. Not only do they sell and rent Halloween costumes, but they also have Christmas outfits, St. Patrick’s Day costumes and Mardi Gras accessories. Customers at Fantasy Costumes are always greeted with a smile and great service. If you’re searching for that one specific thing you can’t find anywhere else, this is the place to come – the shop is a whole block long! They have various rooms including their own kids’ costume room, a wig room and a mask room, and a wide selection of adult costumes as well. For more information click here.

fantasty costumes

Halloween Spirit: Haunted Houses

Chicago Edition: Chicago Ghost Tours

Who knew Chicago was haunted? With a history riddled with battles, fires, gangster massacres and more, there are rumored hauntings all throughout the city. Chicago Ghost Tours takes you on a ghost hunt – even to one of Al Capone’s hangout spots! You’ll be sure to bring back stories from this tour. Call (773) 953-6332 to reserve your spot on a tour today!

Happy Halloween, Chicago style!

{Image credits: Header, 1, 2, 3}

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Dose Market: Bringing You Unique Chicago Goods with Spirit and Pizzazz

Earlier this year, many savvy Chicagoans had the pleasure of shopping the Dose Market, a pop-up market featuring local artisans of all sorts. Featuring new purveyors at each event, the Dose Market offers up small-batch foods, new and vintage fashions, unique jewelry and textiles, home goods, and more. Many of the booths are hosted by the designers, creators or owners themselves, so you’ll have a chance to meet the personalities behind the brands.

Next Dose Market: September 21

Why is this important? Because the Dose Market is returning on Sunday, September 21 (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.), and you’re invited! The market is back for the fall – this time featuring drinks, brunch, men and women’s fashion, music, home goods and so much more. (Brunch options include the brand-new Eastman Egg Company – incredible-looking made-to-order farm egg sandwiches.) They’re even hosting an interactive portion with makeup services, street art collaboration and tarot card readings. The event will take place at Morgan Manufacturing (401 N. Morgan St.), a bold and industrial event space in the West Loop. Tickets can be purchased in advance for $8 or at the door for $10.

Dose Market

Features from the Spring Market

Previously held at the River East Arts Center, this spring the Dose Market took up residence at Chop Shop’s 1^st Ward (2033 W. North Ave.). Conveniently located near the Milwaukee-Damen-North intersection, Chop Shop is a cool spot – part bar, part restaurant and part butcher shop. Stop in for a bite to eat or to pick up tonight’s dinner makings. The shop is structured with a hip loft-style vibe – high ceilings, exposed duct work, and a second-story balcony leading to a little rooftop deck. Walk through the shop to the back and you’ll enter 1^st Ward – the venue that housed the Dose Market can also be rented for private events. Entering through Chop Shop has its benefits – you can order a beer in carry it into the market.

Dose Market Chop Shop First Ward

As you step into the market you’ll gaze upon several organized rows of vendors, each with a different story. On the wall is projected an animated video and just beneath it sits the Smilebooth, a tech-savvy photo booth that pulls in the traditional props and backdrop but lets you immediately print, text, e-mail or share your favorite photos on social media.

Dose Market Spring 2014

Highlights from the spring market:

Chi Chi Sport – Show your Chicago pride with running shorts from Chi Chi Sport! The ladies behind the brand were inspired by the races they’ve each participated in and their love for this city. You can flaunt your love as well by wearing these Chicago flag- branded shorts on the lakefront path or out and about.

Dallas Maynard Jewelry – Geometric and edgy, Dallas Maynard creates bold jewelry sure to earn you compliments. Drawing inspiration from sculptural design, archaeological elements and natural earth materials, each piece has a unique character and story to tell.

Alapash Home & Terrariums – Looking for a conversation starter piece for your home? Terrariums add a city-appropriate bit of eye-catching green to your kitchen or living room. Representing one of Chicago’s most interesting shops (1944 W. Montrose), Alapash was selling globe terrariums filled with miniature scenes at the Dose Market.

Prohibition Spice Co. – Tempting foodie taste buds, Prohibition Spice Co. creates tasty spice blends tailored to specific dishes. Many are designed to be mixed with sausage to enhance its natural flavor in varieties such as Andouille, Beer Barrel Bratwurst, and Moonshiner Breakfast. Their website features recipes for both meat and non-meat dishes utilizing their spices and rubs. On a more regular basis, Prohibition Spice Co. can be found at the French Market (131 N. Clinton).

REMIX Aromatherapy – Add a new scent to your repertoire with perfumes, colognes and even bug spray by REMIX Aromatherapy. Created by acupuncturist and herbalist Giselle Wasfi, the scents are good for your skin and can dress you up for your next night out.

REMIX Aromatherapy

Dose Market

Prohibition Spice Co.

Alapash Terrariums

Dose Market

Chi Chi Sport

Dose Market

While the vendors rotate at each event, this is just a sampling of the type of goods you’ll find on your adventure. Hope to see you on Sunday!

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Popping Up All Over Chicago: Art, Music, Fashion and Shopping

While it’s fun to shop at year-round stores or visit permanent exhibits, it’s exhilarating to take part in Chicago’s “pop-up” events – shopping, art, music or food experiences that happen just for a brief moment – and then they’re gone. If you’re in the know about these happenings – thanks to reading The Chicago Lifestyle, of course – you can take advantage of these fleeting events. You’ll have a unique experience, and you might find some unique items, that you’ll never find anywhere else.

Art

Chicago is a city full of incredible art, visible in many museums, neighborhoods and galleries. Here are some new ways to experience art this month.

ACTIVATE Pop-Up Loop Art Party

The Chicago Loop Alliance, which manages the art and sculptures shown in the loop, is hosting an innovative event called ACTIVATE – which they describe as “part spectacle and part happy hour – featuring art and live music in a unique urban setting.” On Thursday, May 1 from 5 – 10 p.m., the Sullivan Center Alley will be overtaken for the ACTIVATE party, featuring art curated by Johalla Projects and a Zipcar DJ booth. Artists will use lights and lasers to simulate the “death of winter and the rise of spring.” The event is free and beer and wine will be served for $2 (cash only). Sullivan Center Alley can be accessed from Monroe between State and Wabash. RSVP here and get a free drink ticket.

Red Bull Canvas Cooler Project – Showcased in Chicago Restaurants and Bars

Red Bull Cooler Canvas Project

20 emerging Chicago artists were recently selected to each create a masterpiece on a Red Bull cooler covered in canvas. Paired with owners of Chicago’s hottest bars and restaurants, the artists were challenged to create their cooler in fitting with the theme of one specific venue. The artists were only given one day to execute on this creative project, and the coolers were submitted to judges to vote on the best piece, for submission into SCOPE Art Fair in Miami. The remaining creations will go on display in the next few weeks in locations including:

Hub 51
Three Dots and a Dash
Bub City
Chop Shop
Empty Bottle
The Brixton
And many more!

Red Bull Cooler Canvas Project

When you visit any of these locations in the next month, be sure to ask (and watch out for) these unique pieces of art. You’ll be able to surprise your friends when you know where they came from!

{Photos courtesy of Red Bull}

Music

Listen in for this one-of-a-kind concert coming up next week!

Kaleidoscope Concert Featuring Lawrence University Musicians

Lawrence University Kaleidoscope Concert

Imagine a kaleidoscope of jazz, bluegrass, classical and opera music – all converging in one performance. Talented musicians from Lawrence University travel to Chicago to perform for one night only at Park West Theatre (322 W. Armitage) on Tuesday, April 29 at 6:30 p.m. The performance will feature acts such as Cuban drumming, a bluegrass quartet, an operatic aria and even a didgeridoo. Past shows have sold out and have amazed concertgoers with the fast-paced variety of music compiled into one event. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased here. A pre-show reception with hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar will begin at 5:30 p.m.

{Photo courtesy of Lawrence University}

Fashion

Get ahead of the curve with Chicago designers’ brand new clothing lines.

Chicago Designer Spring Showcase

Sine Qua Non Salon (2766 N. Lincoln Ave.) is hosting a spring trunk show featuring Chicago’s top designers this Friday, April 25 from 6:30 – 9 p.m. You’ll have the opportunity to see hot new clothing lines as well as preview new style bar services. Enjoy wine and treats from Paper Moon Bakery while taking advantage of retail promotions and salon booking deals. Fourteen unique vendors will show off their goods at this one-time event. The first 20 people through the door will receive a free blowout!

Shopping

Vintage Garage Flea Market

Sunday, April 27 will mark the 3^rd season of the Vintage Garage flea market. From 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., visit 5051 N. Broadway for a wide selection of vintage clothing, jewelry and mid-century furniture from 100 of the finest vintage dealers in the Midwest. Admission is $5. The event will also feature a “Vintage Style Ride” at 11:30 a.m. – bicyclists dressed in vintage clothing riding along the lakefront.

Randolph Street Market

The classic Randolph Street Market (1350 W. Randolph) will return this weekend, April 25 – 26 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. both days. A treasure trove of all kinds of goods, from clothing, posters, furniture, home goods and more, the Randolph Street Market encourages hours of browsing to pick up just the right item that no one else has. This month the market is indoors, and admission is $10. As a special offering at this month’s market, Tandem Felix Letterpress will be offering classes to learn how to use a wooden letterpress for printing. Classes are $25 (including market entry) and tickets can be purchased here. Bonus! Show your entry ticket receipt after the market for a free glass of Prosecco at Nellcôte.

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What’s Up This Month: April 2014

With the sun starting to shine, the weather heating up, we can finally come out of hibernation! Plan your social calendar with these top picks for April:

4/6
Fondue Cooking Class at Geja’s Cafe
Time: 1 – 3 p.m.
Location: Geja’s Café (340 W. Armitage)
Cost: $25 (proceeds benefit Greater Chicago Food Depository)

To celebrate National Cheese Fondue Week, you have the pleasure of learning the decades-old artistry of Geja’s swiss fondue. Learn from the best and enjoy wine pairings, and even take home samples of the fondue!

4/11 – 4/12
Dance Shelter Performance at Stage 773
Time: 8 p.m.
Location: Stage 773 (1225 W. Belmont)
Cost: $15

In honor of Chicago Dance Month, go see the performances directed by risk-taking choreographers at Stage 773. This contemporary dance show features the work of six choreographers.

4/12
Pastoral Artisan Festival
Time: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Location: Chicago French Market (131 N. Clinton – in Ogilvie Train Station)
Cost: Free

Discover new artisanal meats, cheeses, craft beers, liquors and more directly from their creators. Held at the French Market, this festival allows you to taste lots of local treats for free!

4/12
Grapes to Bottles Wine Tasting Party at Floating World Gallery
Time: 3 – 6 p.m. or 7 – 10 p.m.
Location: Floating World Gallery (1925 N. Halsted)
Cost: $38

This month’s innovative wine tasting is held at a unique gallery in Lincoln Park. Surround yourself with art at this urban loft space while tasting wines and bubbly in the social bubble wine room. Of course, the cheese plate will be a main feature.

4/12
Minds Matter Spring for the Students Gala
Time: 8 – 11 p.m.
Location: Chicago History Museum (1601 N. Clark)
Cost: $95

Party for a cause at the Spring for the Students Gala, benefiting Minds Matter, an organization that pairs students from low-income families with professional mentors, helping them achieve their college preparation and acceptance dreams. Money raised covers the students’ educational needs such as Kaplan prep books, summer school programs, and college application fees. The party features a DJ, open bar, appetizers and desserts as well as a silent auction and raffle.

4/15
Sign Up for Chicago Sport and Social Club Volleyball

Work on your tan all summer with your friends by joining Chicago Sport and Social Club’s volleyball leagues on North Avenue Beach. With options for all skill levels, the volleyball league is a great way to meet new friends and get some fun in after work. While there is no deadline to sign up, registration is open now and will sell out.

4/16
Baconfest Master Class at Whole Foods Lincoln Park
Time: 7 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: Whole Foods Lincoln Park (1550 N. Kingsbury)
Cost: $5

Join in the #BaconMonth craze at Lincoln Park’s flagship Whole Foods while Barn & Co.’s Pitmaster Gary Wiviott demonstrates new ways to enjoy bacon. The chef samples are paired with Lagunitas beer samples. Follow the link to buy tickets or call 312-587-0648 to reserve your spot.

4/24

Ravinia tickets go on sale at 5 a.m.

Time: 5 a.m.

Location: ravinia.org
Cost: Varies

The ultimate summer concert venue, Ravinia encourages long nights of picnicking on the lawn with friends. An easy train ride from the city, Ravinia features hundreds of concerts throughout the summer season. Some of this year’s headliners include One Republic, ZZ Top, Rufus Wainwright, and Willie Nelson. Tickets go on sale at 5 a.m. – headliners sell out quickly but many concert options are open throughout the summer.

4/24
Wine and Wildlife at Lincoln Park Zoo
Time: 6 – 8 p.m.
Location: Lincoln Park Zoo Regenstein Small Mammal – Reptile House
Cost: $17

Enjoy a glass of wine while learning about the zoo’s conservation efforts with rare prairie and reptile species.

4/25 – 4/27
Gilt City Warehouse Sale
Time: Shifts vary
Location: MCA Warehouse (1747 W. Hubbard)
Cost: $10 – $20

Get your high-end fashion fix at this annual warehouse sale hosted by Gilt City. Expect racks of clothing, shoes and accessories to choose from. Hint: go early before all the good stuff is gone.

4/27
Triathlon Gear Swap
Time: 2 – 5 p.m.
Location: Centered Chef (177 N. Ada Suite 101)
Cost: Free admission

Runners, bikers and swimmers alike can browse and buy used gear at the Triathlon Gear Swap. Suit up for your next race or just your summer workouts. Curious about competing in triathlons? Come early for the “Tri 101” class and meet athletes who are happy to share their tips with you.

Enjoy Chicago this April!

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Fashion-Forward February

Chicago hosts a number of fashion and beauty events this month. Get your stylish self out there to enjoy!

Watch

Get a taste of Chicago’s designers on the runway at Chicago Women’s Wear Fashion Runway Show hosted by FashionBar. Benefiting the Inspired Youth Tutoring Program, the runway show will feature items from the designers’ fall/winter 2014 lines. The event takes place at the Drake Hotel’s Palm Court (140 E. Walton) on Thursday, February 13 from 6:30 – 10 p.m. Tickets available for $20 – 50, buy yours to claim your swag bag today!

Learn

Starting your own fashion business or blog? Get some advice on how to fund your business in the Dabble class “Creative Ways to Finance Your Fashion Business.” Image consultant Nancy Plummer hosts the class, walking you through how to set fees, build sponsorships and make a profit. Held at the Harold Washington Library (400 S. State) from 6 – 8 p.m. on Wednesday, February 19, tickets $25

Beautify yourself in Dabble’s Curling Iron Class on Thursday, February 20 from 7 – 8 p.m. For $20, hairstylist Lynnea D. will show you the tricks of the trade and the best ways to curl your hair using products and a curling iron. This hands-on class will be supplemented by a lipstick lesson as well. Held at Goldplaited (2803 N. Sheffield)

Save the date for March 12 – J. Gordon Designs (2326 N. Clark) in Lincoln Park hosts the next session of their fantastic blow dry boot camps. Having previously attended this course, I can say it’s well worth going to learn how to tame your tresses with a blow dryer for a sleek look. The cost (usually $35) will be earned back in products from the salon. Request stylist Lauren and you will be blessed with blow dry skills for life

Buy

Shop all things monogrammed at All She Wrote (825 W. Armitage). Style yourself with a python leather clutch available in 8 colors, and of course personalization is an option. Browse their personalized stationery, gifts and more, and you might even be lucky enough to come across their “Monograms and Mimosas” events on an upcoming weekend

Out around town? Taking advantage of the events I post about? Share your photos with us on Instagram! Follow us @thechicagolifestyle

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