BY JUDY CARMACK BROSS
Leave it to the Junior League to take a three-generation tradition like Gazebo and make it fresh and fabulous in 2016. Just as the League matches community needs with skilled volunteers, bringing people across Chicago together for a good cause, the holiday market featured 60 vanguard vendors who attracted many of the League’s 1200 members and other guests from all over the city.
A sampling of the fantastic pieces available at this year’s Gazebo event.
With its beginnings at the Junior League headquarters on Astor Street 45 years ago and later becoming a holiday fixture at the Saddle & Cycle Club, this year’s Gazebo found a new home at the Museum of Broadcast Communications. The Preview Party featured live music, conversation, and, of course, plenty of shopping. A Toys for Tots drive was included this month for the first time in the event’s history.
Erika Kennedy and Emily Hunter (at left and center) decorate holiday cards with a friend for at-risk women and children through the JLC’s Done in a Day community project.
Funds raised benefit the League’s Done in a Day projects, which supply volunteers for short-term efforts such as preparing meals for the hungry or staffing the Chicago Marathon. In addition, the League builds long-term partnerships across the city that greatly impact the lives of women and at-risk children.
President Ruth Gallagher-Nelson and Mark Nelson enjoying this year’s event.
Ruth Gallagher Nelson serves as President of the Junior League, one of the oldest, largest and most effective women’s organizations across the globe.
T&J Designs shined at this year’s holiday Gazebo event.
JLC members Genevieve Fabish, Mollie Hammond, and Vanessa Kosloski.
Keiko Osumi, a member of the Junior League of Chicago, betting her luck on the raffle Grand Prize—a trip to Antigua.
Members Blythe Newton and Natalie Kapnick selling merchandise to directly benefit the League.
JLC member Anne Hankey Forman attended as a vendor on behalf of Leslie Hindman Auctioneers.
Members shopped the night away to benefit the League’s mission of supporting women and children in need.
Photo Credit:
Kathleen Virginia Photography
