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[bigletter]My recent trip to Chicago was overbooked and busy in the best of ways. Following a redeye flight I rushed to my rental car and zoomed into the city for an early morning shoot on the Gold Coast before meeting my lovely little sister Becky at the AIRE Ancient Baths in River North for some early birthday celebrations. Like most cool things these days I found this special spot on Instagram and instantly felt relaxed thumbing through photos of its candlelit pools, subtly aligned along a lofty wall of exposed brick, a perfect paradox of city and retreat. Of course this would be the ticket to putting a smile on Becky’s face, an easy easy adventure for the girl who’s not into excessive movement, yet gets bored easily and who never knows what she wants to do but somehow always knows what she would like not to do.[/bigletter]
The place was great, my only hang up being I couldn’t snap a few gram worthy pics in keeping with the no cell phone policy, which I respect as it is a spa where people come to escape or spend quality time with friends. We went through each and every one of the 7 ancient baths, all fairly great before showering and getting dressed for a bougie birthday lunch at Maple & Ash.
I feel in love with the decor at first, as always let’s be honest! Because it embodied everything I love about Chicago, a midwestern steakhouse with big cozy tables and of course the added elegance of deep tones in plush velvet and long tapered candles at each table, an inviting scene amongst the wind chill alone.
And of course the menus, let’s talk about the amazing menus they print for any special celebration.
When Arthur and I went for the most fabulous Sunday brunch, which I recommend everyone indulge in, I requested one be made congratulating him on a business milestone.
And of course I had to do the same for Becky!
Restaurants take note: it’s the little things that count here! Making someone feel special on a big day, in addition to giving them a cute backdrop for an instagram picture, a nice little keepsake to remember the meal goes a long way.
Especially when you order like a child. Becky and I must just have the same taste but a dozen oysters, the most perfect batch of fries and an undeniably delicious mac and cheese seemed to hit the spot.
In addition to three cups of coffee for me given my complete lack of sleep and a chocolate cake because why not?
Oh right yes this was her birthday!
Good thing I have something here in this picture to remember it by.
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{ No. 21 Handbag }
