It's Time to Lace up Those Boots and Throw on a Scarf...or Two

Hey there!

Now that we have our first official snowfall here in Chicago, and it is already December-I'm thinking it's time to make the most of the holiday season by getting out in the city and exploring a few awesome activities! I know that the frigid temps and blustery winds make it a little more tempting to cozy up inside with a blanket and movie, but don't give in! This season is here for only a short time so don't miss out on all the fun (and free) activities put on in this beautiful city.

After researching a bit I found a few things going on that I think you should absolutely consider for a weekend afternoon or evening! They are...

• Ice skating in Millenium Park-It's free admission and you can rent skates there if needed.


• Caroling at Cloud Gate-A fantastic array of groups join in Millenium Park each friday to perform carols for whoever would like to enjoy them.


• Zoolights- Watch ice carving, see Santa, enjoy warm drinks, and be amazed by over a million lights at Lincoln Park Zoo.


• Christkindlmarket-German and International vendors are set up in Daley Plaza for a guaranteed afternoon of fun, sweets, and delicious drinks.

These are only a few of the wonderful holiday things going on in the city this season so know that their is no shortage of exciting, free entertainment. Peel yourself off the couch, layer on some outergear, and prepare yourself for a holiday experience you aren't likely to find anywhere else!

Enjoy!!

Anne

My last day at LILL...

Wow, how surreal to write those words – “My last day at LILL…” How do you leave a company, a brand, a group of people, an experience, a friend that has helped shape the very fabric of who you are as a person?

For me, this transition is bittersweet. I am leaving my full-time position as Vice President of 1154 LILL Studio after 11 plus years to have my third baby (next week!) and to spend more time with my kids as a full-time mom. I am thrilled to be able to do this – they are only young once and I can’t wait to get more involved in their schools and their activities while soaking up their sweet personalities.

I also feel so good about where the company stands at this point. Not only did we have an amazing team in place already, we have hired an exceptionally talented and experienced Chief Marketing Officer who brings so much to the table and is truly going to help shape the future of LILL. I cannot wait to see how the company will grow and change as the entire team moves forward together.

At the same time, I can't imagine my life without LILL. It's been such a huge part of who I am for the past 11+ years. I have felt lucky EVERY DAY to be a part of it, to work with such smart, talented and caring people and to be surrounded by such loyal and creative customers and fans.

I am honored and humbled that my friend Jen Velarde put her faith and trust in me those many, many years ago and has taken me along with her on this ride. Over the years I’ve worn many hats (as have many at LILL) but the roles I hold dearest include acting as Jen’s sounding board, spokesperson, right-hand woman, confidant and more. I am inspired by her and so very proud of her as a person, an entrepreneur, a leader, an innovator, a mother and a friend.

I am SO excited for the potential I see in LILL. There is a big part of me that wishes I could be a part of this next step - seeing the company grow to the next level. But I also know that it is the right time for change. So - it's the start of a new phase and a new adventure for LILL and for me. It’s crazy, surreal, exciting and of course very bittersweet. I'll always have LILL in my heart and I know that LILL will always have a part of me in it's heart as well. I fully recognize what a rare and special opportunity I have had here at LILL and am truly thankful for all I have experienced along the way.

With much love, Robin

Design Updates

I hope everyone had a lovely Thanksgiving holiday! Here at LILL we've already got holiday gift giving on our mind, and many of us are quite the crafters. If you're like us and enjoy making some of your gifts here are a few simple projects to try using fabric as your medium...






Use various sizes of needlepoint hoops
to display fun fabrics!










Cover a canvas or a piece of lightweight plywood with fabric
and arrange them at different heights on the wall.








Make a tree skirt, or even some stockings out of fabric!









I hope we've inspired you to give crafting a try this holiday season. If you need some fabrics to get you started we have quite a selection of our own to choose from! If crafting isn't for you, no worries. Our holiday gift guide will surely do the trick!


-Mandy