Northwest Living Magazine

12/02/2025

Bare windows are rarely anyone’s design goal. But between blinds, shades, shutters and draperies – many now motorized and custom-fit – it’s not always clear where to start. At ZNL Window Coverings, Inc in Loves Park, a wall of more than 100 working samples and a team of longtime designers walk homeowners through the basics, from energy-saving cellular shades to the return of luxe draperies.

Nobody likes a bare window, especially if you’re looking to filter out sunlight or get a little privacy. There are plenty of options out there, but what’s right for your home? That’s where a little input from an experienced team can make all the difference. The showroom at ZNL Window Coverings

11/27/2025

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Northwest Quarterly and Hughes Media Corp! Today we’re extra grateful for our readers, advertisers and the communities we serve across the region. Wishing you a safe, joyful holiday filled with family, friends and good food.

11/27/2025

At The Arboretum of South Barrington, holiday shopping comes with a 32-foot castle, a dancing Christmas tree, photo ops, train rides and visits with Santa – plus more than 75 shops and restaurants to explore in a Main Street-style setting.

There’s magic in the air when the holidays descend upon The Arboretum of South Barrington. While this outdoor luxury mall is ripe with year-round entertainment, there’s something special this time of year. “We transform our main street plaza into a huge holiday display, with a 32-foot castle, ...

11/22/2025

At Crystal Lake Brewing, the taproom is community-focused, but the beer is award-winning. Rotating seasonal beers, Trivia Tuesdays and food trucks five nights a week ensure the taproom is always humming.

Many people think of Crystal Lake Brewing (CLB) as their own personal Cheers: a place where everyone knows your name and your favorite beer. Whether they’re hanging out at the taproom or the beer garden, it’s a place that easily feels like home. “It’s meant to be a fun, family-friendly, comm...

11/20/2025

Designing a showstopping Christmas tree starts long before the ornaments come out. Measure your space, choose the right lighting, and layer decor from the inside out for depth and flow.

Every house needs a good Christmas tree, so to really help it stand out, try using a few tricks from the designer’s playbook. First, be sure to measure the space where you’ll put it. Consider both height and width, says Laurie Kane, who owns Treetime Christmas Creations in Lake Barrington with h

11/18/2025

In Crystal Lake, Abednego Comfort Dog is helping Immanuel Lutheran Church and School bridge grief, anxiety and everyday stress — one quiet visit, classroom chapel and comforting nuzzle at a time.

Not all bridges are built from stone, steel or wood. Sometimes, they sport a golden coat and walk on all fours. At Immanuel Lutheran Church and School in Crystal Lake, a 3-year-old golden retriever helps connect people in ways words often can’t. Abednego Comfort Dog offers calm and companionship

11/13/2025

Across Chicagoland, local theaters are decking the stage with festive favorites old and new.

The beauty and excitement of the holiday season are on full display at our region’s performing arts centers. In every corner of Chicagoland, you’ll find traditional and modern productions that are sure to get you in a festive mood. “The holiday season is our busiest time of the year,” says M...

11/11/2025

Kids’ feet can grow up to five sizes in their first year. At Heisler's Bootery in Crystal Lake, careful fitting and 3-D scans help keep little feet on the right path.

Finding the right pair of shoes for your little one can feel impossible, especially when they seem to outgrow their footwear overnight. To simplify the process, start with shoes that promote long-term foot health. “Kids’ feet can grow up to five sizes within the first 12 months,” says Jody Hei...

11/08/2025

Your garage door works harder than you think. Keep it running smoothly with an annual check-up — and avoid the surprise of a door that won’t open when you need it most.

Your garage door is one of the most used pieces of equipment in your home, but it’s also one of the easiest to neglect. It’s time to start paying closer attention, says Allen Holley, salesperson with A.S.A.P. Garage Door Repair in Huntley. “No one uses the front door anymore,” he adds. “Ev...

11/06/2025

The best toys don’t just entertain — they teach. At Marvin's Toy Store in Crystal Lake, co-owner Kate McConville says the right plaything should match a child’s stage of growth, sparking patience, creativity and curiosity with every use.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when choosing a gift for a child, especially when the toy store has so many possibilities. To narrow your options, start with toys that spark fun, and you’ll find something that has lasting value. “The first thing to consider is what’s age-appropriate for your c...