International Women's Day
March is Women’s History month, and as a women-owned business in what is still, a mostly male dominated industry, we do not take for granted the women who’ve come before us that have both inspired and paved the way for the many generations of female leaders, activists and entrepreneurs who have come after them - ourselves included.
As we reflect and celebrate the contributions that women have played in forging gender equality we can’t help but feel incredibly fortunate to live in a city full of women-owned brands and businesses. We love that we can support the women in our community across many industries - and not just because they’re women, but because what they’re doing is truly the best of the best. Their work is beautiful and delicious and creative and inspiring and there is no better day than International Women’s Day to show some appreciation for the women-owned businesses you love in your own communities. Seek them out, learn their stories, support them with your patronage. Here are just a few of our favorites:
Flakey croissants, seasonally inspired pastries and the best Parisian sandwich you’ll find outside of Paris - Floriole is the real deal. What began as a stand at the Green City Farmer’s Market became a charming bakery in the heart of Lincoln Park back in 2010. Once you taste anything at Floriole, you’ll understand the line out the door on Saturday and Sunday mornings. We’re big fans of everything they do, but especially the sourdough bread. Don’t leave without a loaf (or two)
FARE favorite:
Seeded Sourdough. Floriole’s house sourdough with the addition of toasted flax, oats, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, and pepitas.
In the north-side neighborhood of Roscoe Village you’ll find the totally genius concept where killer pilates meets perfectly poured cappuccinos. This bright and friendly cafe / studio hybrid has become the local, morning watering hole, where friends and neighbors gather with little ones and pups (they even have a special drink for your furry friend) and everybody knows your name. New to pilates? Whether it’s a private or group class, the tight knit team makes even the most amateur pilates goer feel right at home.
FARE favorite:
Cappuccino, always with locally roasted beans.
Perinatal Pilates Group Class for all your mamas out there or the Group Reformer Class.
Founded by Elizabeth Cronin in 1999 this Wicker Park staple (they also have a location connected to the Ace Hotel) offers stunning florals, unique jewelry, a selection of home goods, even some taxidermy. It’s always our first stop for one of a kind gifts. The shop is moody, smells incredible and is adorned in richly colored blooms. Bottom line, shopping at Asrai Garden makes us feel very cool.
FARE favorite:
Blackbird Incense Cones in Gorgo
Quarry Triptych One Pearl Single Earring
Curated corner store for ‘best of’ essentials, unique food finds, local and imported goods, fun gifts, and more.
Quality grocery products, delicious prepared foods, and an amazing selection of natural wines
The names says it all. Totally bangin’ pie and biscuits. You seriously can’t go wrong.
Founder Gina Caifnao offers a range of kicksa** personal training, strength, conditioning, and mobility classes at her Ukrainian Village studio, that focus on high-quality programming and adaptability for any athlete, no matter what fitness level.
one of the largest feminist bookstores in the country, stocking more than 20,000 books by and about women, children's books, and the best LGBTQIA+ literature.
We can only hope that our passion and persistence for creating something with meaning and integrity will also one day inspire just the way these wonderful women have.
