Sip With Me

Soldier Field is one of the most recognized and iconic Chicago landmarks. And many of you have likely been to a Bears game there, or perhaps a Taylor Swift concert! What you might not think about when you visit is that the stadium has hosted numerous historic figures like MLK Jr. and NATO, and has had a far reaching impact on the Chicagoland economy for decades. We sat down with Luca Serra, Director of Marketing & PR for Soldier Field, to discuss what it takes to run a 63,500 seat stadium! He shares some of the rich 100+ year history of the stadium and discusses its designation as a National Historic Landmark. Learn about the “it takes a village” mentality he and his team need when it comes to pulling off a wide array of highly visible events, and learn about some of the economic impacts the stadium has on Chicago. Plus, hear about some of the current and future trends they see in the event, sport, and concert industries.  We end with rapid fire and learn about the time Luca met Obama, what concert he’s looking forward to this summer, and what his go-to food and beverage order are at the stadium!  UPCOMING EVENTS & TICKETS: https://www.soldierfield.com/events/all MORE STADIUM HISTORY: https://www.soldierfield.com/stadium-info/about BOOK A PRIVATE EXPERIENCE: https://www.soldierfield.com/private-events Follow them on Instagram (@soldierfield): https://www.instagram.com/soldierfield/?hl=en

Take a Shot of Art with us! We all remember the creative days of our childhood when we could color outside the lines and make mud soup in the back yard. Now, there is a super unique experience that will remedy the creative void in anyone’s life and give you a boost of art therapy! This week, we ventured to “Shot of Art” in West Town to try out their wildly unique art experiences. Perfect for date nights, birthdays, or bestie bonding (aka us!), you’ll leave your experience with both a happy mind and a beautiful painted masterpiece. From shooting balloons filled with paint to painting on the ceiling, there’s an experience here for folks of all ages and no experience is needed! We sat down with Anastasia to discuss the founding story and why the owner felt inspired to create such a unique experience. Learn about the several art experiences you can try and find out how you can cover both the canvas and your bestie with paint (I’m looking at you Ioanna)!! Plus, we play rapid fire and learn what kind of painting Ioanna and I are! Chicago Info & Tickets: https://chi.shotofart.com Follow them: @shot_of_art Visit their studios in Chicago, New York, LA, Houston, and more cities to come soon! See website or descriptions below for some of the options available! SHOOTING & SPINNING Using an airsoft gun, you will shoot down balloons filled with paint. Then, we will spin your paint-splashed canvas to get an amazing abstract work of art. FLUID ART Fantastic patterns obtained using acrylic paints, silicone and torch  burner will not leave you indifferent. ART ROOM Let your fantasies fly! You can book a room and to paint it how you want - draw on walls, furniture and even on the ceiling! Bloggers love making fresh and eye-catching content in our Art room.

To celebrate Pi-Day, we’re taking a deep dive into pizza pie history with Chicago’s famous Pizano’s Pizza & Pasta! (look how many pi’s we got into that sentence alone) A Chicago classic, deep dish was created to make a meal out of pizza, which historically had just been seen as a snack. Opened in 1991 by Rudy Malnati Jr., Pizano’s has become a staple deep disher, and their equally amazing thin crust is even Oprah’s favorite! We chat with Holly Malnati about the brand and family history. Hear how the original recipe and their famous crust came to be. and Plus, what goes into making a deep dish pizza. Learn about their secret weapon and discover behind the scenes tales from decades of culinary perfection! Find a location near you and order pizza: https://www.pizanoschicago.com Follow Pizano’s on Instagram: @pizzanospizzachi Read more deep dish history: https://www.pizanoschicago.com/deep-dish-history/ Grab some Pizano’s because they put the “pi” in Pizano’s and Pizza!

Start your engines folks, we’re going to the Chicago Auto Show! There’s been nothing like it for Chicago- from the people it attracts to the impact is has on a global market, this is the place to be every February! First staged in 1901, the Chicago Auto Show is the largest auto show in North America and has been held more times than any other auto exposition on the continent. If you’re into cars, looking to buy a car, or do anything related to cars, then this is the indoor winter fun you need in Chicago. Aaron has been going annually since he was kid (we bet you didn’t think he was into cars) and he intends to keep it that way, bringing Ioanna as his date this year! We sit down with Director of Marketing & Sponsorships, Jim Obrill, to talk what’s trending at this year’s show. Hear what Chicago Auto Show attendees get to see first anywhere in the nation, and find out why this exposition is perfect whether you’ve been attending for decades or want to try it out for the first time! We also talk Electric Vehicles and the future of tech on display at McCormick Center. And Jim highlights what he is most excited for this year (we trust him since he is referred to as “the car guy”)! We end with Jim discussing how the show has left its mark on Chicago’s economy, and Jim tells Ioanna and Aaron what car they are! Get tickets and browse more info on this year’s show at: https://www.chicagoautoshow.com Follow them on Instagram: @thechicagoautoshow Follow Jim on Instagram: @jpcars22 Listen to Jim’s Show “Drive Chicago”: https://www.wlsam.com/drivechicago/ DATES: FEBRUARY 10-19 at McCormick Place This week’s episode features “The Pink Cadillac Cocktail” from Motortrends.com!

Candle Castle & Co. is the most magical and best smelling place in Chicago- especially during the holidays and in winter when we all need a little brightness in our lives! Enter Sunshine- the teacher of our class who led us on our journey of what Ioanna and I would call “therapeutic refined childhood crafts with an elevated twist”. She made the night special as Nathan and Aaron celebrated their 8th anniversary! More than just a company— they’re a place where you can go to create, connect and rejoice! They offer a unique candle making experience that we did with our husbands this week and it truly was the highlight of our year. You pick out everything from the scents to the vessel to the glitter on top! And you name your candle too (ours were Crisp Autumn, Spring Melt, Smelly, and Forest Floor) During classes, guests are educated and learn the art of candle making- hand pouring & stirring your wax. In keeping with their mission to bring customers the best in clean products, their candles are some of the most sustainable and home friendly on the market- without the chemicals often found in store-bought candles. Plus, they sell the most unique candles in-store that range from fruit loop to s’mores- both in scent and shape! Hear from the owners about what it takes to start a candle company and how they decide which fun scents and decorations to feature. And hear about their custom Air Jordan 5 candle they created for John Mayer!! A special shoutout to our class leader “Sunshine” who in our hour-long class became more than just a teacher- she became a friend and was an amazing comedian. This is classy, fun, and unique gift idea for a partner, friend, parent, or just to treat yourself! Follow them on Instagram: @candlecastleco Book Classes: (www.candlecastleco.com) Sign up or gift a class at the link in their bio and use code “SIPWITHME15” for 15% off your class booking!

Merry Pinkmas! Pink Wonderland is a very merry pink Christmas bar with locations in Chicago and New York. It seeks to “break from traditional Christmas bar norms, aiming to offer a fresh, unique take on the holiday season”. The pop-up has everything pink and opens December 1st! We chat with King Inesse and Miriam Paz from V5 about what you'll experience and what it takes to make a pop-up come to life. Try themed cocktails like “The Pink Flurry, Santa’s Cookies & Milk, or grinch-themed The Mean One”. Take photos in their giant pink sleigh, sip on your drink in one of their light-up igloos, and enjoy your favorite holiday remixes. This is THE pop-up to go to this year, it’s an incredibly immersive and unique experience that defies all norms and serves content for days. 21 & over w/ a valid ID. Family Sundays 12-5PM. Cocktail workshop tickets are available at the link below. Follow: @apinkwonderland @miriampaz_91 @kinginesse Tickets: (https://solo.to/pinkwonderland)

Raise your hand if Garrett Popcorn or Frango Chocolate are part of your Holiday traditions? Everyone should have a hand raised! The Holidays are here, so that means Ioanna and Aaron dedicate every waking thought to food.   Two timeless Chicago classics that are especially relevant during Christmastime are these two iconic delicacies. Family-owned by Garrett Brands, the company is responsible for delivering high quality holiday smiles and passing down memories that have been in Chicago families for generations. Whether you were first enticed by the smell of their signature caramel corn drifting down Michigan Ave or if Frango has been a tradition in your family since grandma first took you to Marshall Field’s, nearly every Chicagoan has a story to tell when it comes to these treats. We welcome Megan and Lindsay of Garrett Brands to pop us a bag of freshly caramelized history behind the products and to give us a peek into what they have “FRANgoing” on this holiday season. IN THIS EPISODE: History- Learn about how Garrett Popcorn started as a competition among family to create the best caramel corn! And discover how Frango traveled to Chicago from Seattle. Quality- Hear about the cooking process that sets the popcorn apart. And find out some of the many flavor combinations you can get these days at a Garrett Popcorn Shop! Tradition- Find out how Frango Chocolate became a staple in so many homes during the holidays. And hear about their gorgeous new chocolate boxes that you’ll want to display on your mantle. Fun Facts- Did you know the famous “Garrett Mix” (also dubbed by some fans as the Chicago Mix) was created by customers! Chicago Values- We love a family business that cares about Chicagoland. Hear about “Garrett Cares” and what the company does to give back to the city that makes them who they are. All this and so much more on today’s episode! Megan & Lindsay are so fun so this is definitely a must-listen episode! Garrett Brands ships nationwide! Shop, gift, or ship Garrett Popcorn and Frango Chocolate at: https://www.garrettpopcorn.com And follow them on Instagram: @GARRETTPOPCORN @FrangoChocolate

The Original Caramel Apple is celebrating its 75th birthday! This October, bite into one of the nation’s favorite fall treats and fill your heart with the nostalgia that is the Affy Tapple brand. This delicious treat has filled hearts & homes since 1948, and still does today using the same caramel recipe from way back when! Dipped in everything from Christmas sprinkles to the classic peanut coating, there’s a variety for any time of the year. The team at Affy Tapple joins us to share the rich history behind this iconic Chicago brand. Hear how the caramel apple came to be and discover why they got their unique “Affy Tapple” name. Plus, we discuss how they make so many caramel apples, where they source their apples, and what fun products you can get Halloween, Christmas, and beyond! You can find Affy Tapple at your local Chicagoland grocer, or visit their online store to ship them to your loved ones around the country! Follow them on Instagram: @affytapple Shop or Ship Affy Tapple: https://www.affytapple.com Visit our Instagram to see exclusive footage from our behind scenes Affy Tapple HQ tour!

Vibe check, Chicago!! If you're a regular on the Chicago food & drink scene, chances are you've been to one of Brad Parker's establishments, which include the popular Hampton Social, The Bassment, newly opened Nisos Prime, and more coming.   Entrepreneur Brad Parker is the founder of Parker Hospitality and his dining concepts are more than kitchens slinging conventional dishes —--they’re immersive portals that transport guests to dreamy destinations: you have the nautical Hampton Social which evokes an East Coast lifestyle; Mediterranean Nisos lets you escape to the Greek Islands; and live music venue, Bassment, is a one of our favorite speakeasy lounges.    Brad joins us this week to discuss what you can enjoy at his immersive establishments, both in Chicago and around the nation. We learn fun facts like where the famously instagramable “rosé all day” sign came from and what theme is next on his business bucket list. Hear how he curates each location’s high quality menu and why his spots are perfect for many young adults like Ioanna & Aaron, who want insane quality food but also sometimes want to have fun in a more sophisticated environment than a busy club or crowded bar. Plus, Ioanna & Aaron dine at Nisos Prime Bar & Hampton Social. AND we had such a good time, we’re going back to Nisos Prime Bar this week to celebrate Ioanna’s birthday (we’re mostly going back for the homemade bread app)! We 10/10 recommend Brad’s spots for a night out with friends, to celebrate a special event, or just to treat yourself. The food quality was superior, the staff were the friendliest in the city, and the energy, let us tell you, the VIBES truly transported us to places far far away. See our experience and reviews on Instagram @sipwithme_ Visit https://www.parkerhospitality.com to see locations, make reservations, and view menus! Follow Brad: @bradparker_hospitality Follow Parker Hospitality: @parkerhospitality

This week, Celebrity Private Chef Brooke Baevsky, also known as “Chef Bae”, takes us into the kitchen to tell us all about her fascinating career and some of the viral content she’s created. She’s known for her day-in-the-life videos, shopping at Erewhon, a viral $2000 dollar pizza, and so much more! She does it all, from shopping for her clients to crafting the tastiest recipes that meet even the most strict allergen/nutritional needs. We chat about a day in the life of a celeb chef, what inspires her extravagant meals, and so much more! We finish the episode with a round of rapid fire where we find out her favorite food, go-to seasoning, and dream client! For this week’s cocktail, we're featuring a fall inspired mocktail, The Magic Apple, which comes from Town & Country Mag. It’s the perfect mocktail to sip on as we make our way into our favorite season, fall! Link is in our Instagram bio! To book Brooke’s services or find out more about what she offers, visit her website: https://itschefbae.com/ And follow her on social: @chefbae Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefbae/ Tik Tok:https://www.tiktok.com/@chefbae Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@itschefbae

Bekah Wriedt is a chicago-based fashion and lifestyle photographer who shot our GORGEOUS, pink Sip with Me photos earlier this year. We feel the need to brag about how good she is by having her on the show to share her story, tips for getting your photos taken, and what it was like working with us… We hear about how she found her passion through the lens and what her journey has been like building a name for herself. She gives us some tips to use during our next photo shoot and reveals all the tea about shooting us, a Virgo & Chaotic Capricorn. To see her work, including our pics, and to book her for your next personal or business shoot, visit her website: https://www.bekahwriedt.com/ 📸: @bekahwriedt

The day after Ioanna’s wedding last summer, we ambitiously aired an episode of Sip With Me while we were still recovering from the Greek tradition of dancing all night and breaking plates. It was iconic because our guest was an icon, Melissa Andre, Founder of Melissa Andre Design Co. and, according to our episode title from last year, a “Château Innovator”. She’s planned events for the most “A” of the “A-List” celebs and has a vision for creation that is unmatched in today’s event planning market. Melissa is BACK to get all the tea from Ioanna & Aaron about the wedding, including the good, the bad, and the juicy drama. Plus, Melissa tells us about how wedding & event season 2023 is shaping up when compared to the record smashing, post-pandemic social palooza that was 2022. Literally our social batteries are still fried! And, Melissa gets a brilliant idea for a podcast, which we are manifesting and would love to invest in once we ever make a penny from Sip With Me. We finish with a hilarious update on the Château and Melissa tells us what a pain in the a** renovations can be. We truly love Melissa and her support of our show has meant the world! Give her a follow @melissaandre and visit the link in our Instagram bio to check out her work! Melissa, we’ll see you soon for some Pilates reformer and gossip!!

There’s nothin’ more Chicago than a shot of Malört (or a bottle)! It’s famous for its unique taste and rich history. It’s a traditional wormwood based liquor near and dear to Chicago’s food and drink pop culture, and it’s been gaining insane popularity in recent years. Tremaine Atkinson, CEO, Co-Founder, & Head Drinker of CH Distillery, which bought the famous brand in 2018, added it to its portfolio of artisan spirits. The company, which embodies Chicago in name and spirit, is host to a 50,000 sq foot distillery and a portfolio of Illinois spirits. We chat with Tremaine about why he founded CH and what led him to fall in love with Jeppson’s Malört. Hear some of its rich history and why Tremaine brought the brand back to Chicago. Plus, hear about what it’s like to run a distillery in a major city and  what makes their spirits stand out from the crowd! Follow them @chdistillery Visit https://chdistillery.com/ to learn more about the brand, book a reservation at CH Bar, or book a distillery tour! PLUS, they have partnered with Jinsei Motto to offer both cocktail and sushi at their West Loop location! Ioanna and I checked it out, and it’s a 10/10 spot for a night out or drinks after work!

This week, we’re featuring Tyson and Audy Leavitt of Charmed Playhouses & Resorts! The Charmed team makes the most unique and fantastic playhouses in the world, and also operates a resort featuring stunning cottages that will transport you to Storybook Square or Wonder Way! Become immersed in your own specially crafted fairytale, or stay at the resort and become part of the plot on Hook’s Pirate Ship or The Lost Boys’ Treehouse! Founded in 2015, the duo wanted life to be more whimsical, so they combined their skills and started building! The playhouses eventually went viral (because they’re so freaking awesome) and have been commissioned by a-list celebs like Stephen Curry, and they even were the center of TLC’s “Playhouse Masters”. We chatted about how it all began with a Rapunzel playhouse and how they eventually decided to open a resort to make their magical designs more accessible! We chatted about their favorite fairytales & favorite cottages at the resort! We got the scoop on how to source the right decor, and even discussed how one ships a giant playhouse to a client! Check out their website: https://charmedplayhouses.com/ and stay at the Charmed Resorts: https://charmedresorts.ca/

She comes with news! Welcome back to Fashion Artist and Author, Holly Nichols! Also known as “hnicholsillustration”, she joined us in April 2021 to discuss her rise on TikTok and her book, “Modern Fashion Illustration”. Since then, she’s up to 1.7 million instagram followers, 6.2 million TikTok followers, and has done numerous campaigns and works for some of the worlds most notable brands. She goes viral for her recreations of Disney princesses and red carpet looks of the world’s a-list celebs. In this episode, we catch up and chat all the things that have happened since 2021, including new video content, insane social media engagement, and support from major brands like the Patriots! She also shares a special announcement that she’ll be selling her book again with a new publisher! PLUS, a new coloring book is coming soon!! SO SO SLAY! Shop her amazing products: https://www.etsy.com/shop/hnillustration/ Check her out on Instagram & Tik Tok:https://www.instagram.com/hnicholsillustration/?hl=en

Ilana joined us in January 2022 to discuss her epically popular podcast, @seeingotherpeople. On it, she shares expert and listener advice, stories, and opinions on dating, with the goal of making you feel less alone! She also told us about her insane ties to the Jonas Brothers! Ilana joins us for an update on her show, which includes getting signed, hosting events in NYC, and her views on how dating has evolved as we continue to move into a post-lockdown world of love. We also want to say a HUGE congratulations because she got engaged just days after we talked! WE LOVE YOU AND CHEERS TO YOU & JAKE! Be sure to listen to our original interview (linked in bio) and subscribe to her show wherever you get your podcasts!

Gather ‘round the campfire and sing our campfire song! We’re roasting up an ooey gooey treat for you today! Our guest, XO Marshmallow, is the premier gourmet marshmallow company in the world, AND opened the world’s very 1st marshmallow cafe, right here in Chicago! Per co-founders Kat & Lindzi, “the goal of XO Marshmallow is to bring the nostalgia of sipping cocoa with marshmallows, or roasting s’mores by the campfire, into the 21st century with a modern twist! We want to take this fluffy, adorable treat and elevate it. We use premium ingredients to develop our innovative flavors--from Salted Caramel to Champagne”! We met up with them to discuss how I’m the world they decided to enter the gourmet marshmallow business, and why they decided to open up a cafe dedicated to the delicacy! Learn about their blow up on social media, how they make their treats, and what lessons they’ve learned along the way. Plus, they tell us all about their marshmallow advent calendar and their monthly marshmallow club! They also use premium ingredients and make every batch in-house! We end with rapid fire, learning about Kat & Lindiz’s favorite flavors, dream collabs, and marshmallow pairings! Follow them on Instagram  @xo.marshmallow, visit their website (www.xomarshmallow.com) to shop, and visit them in Lincoln Park, IL at 2730 N Clark St! Happy toasting & roasting!

Happy New Year Cool Cats & Kittens! Carole Baskin returns to the show this week to update us on what has happened since we first met back in July 2021! Updates include many visits the the U.S. Capitol, getting her bill signed by President Biden (so so cool) and the continuation of her big cat safety work and presence in the media. Cheers to Carole on her bill, the Big Cat Public Safety Act, which officially became law on December 20, 2022! It’s bans cub petting photo ops, bans private big cat pet ownership and sets registration requirements for current big cat owners, among other things. The bill passed the US House 278-134 and unanimously in the Senate. Carole discussed how what may seem like a common sense law to protect big cats and people, was the culmination of decades of work, as lobbying and private interest away in the U.S. government remains strong, and not always for the right reasons. Be sure to follow @bigcatrescue for all the latest updates on everything big cats! This weeks cocktail, the “Here Kitty Kitty” comes from gobourbon.com, Old Forester, and Cocktails by Hawk!

This week, we’re getting the scoop- literally - on one of the nation’s favorite, most recognizable ice cream brands- The Original Rainbow Cone! Rainbow Cone is a Chicago-founded ice cream shop serving up ice cream, cakes, donuts, and more. Best known for their original cone, the famous and insta-worthy product is a stack of five flavors: Orange Sherbet, Pistachio, Palmer House, Strawberry, and Chocolate. They “slice (not scoop) these flavors into a cone or a cup” creating a literal rainbow of ice cream magic! There may not be a pot of gold at the end, but your stomach and smile will surely feel like it! Lynn Sapp, Third Generation Owner of Rainbow Cone, joined us to discuss what a rainbow cone is, what has made it a beloved treat over multiple generations, and what it means to be a Chicago business. Founded over 95 years ago by Grandpa Joe Sapp, they’ve kept things pretty much the same and are expanding across the nation! Lynn talks about what it has meant to spread ice cream cheer to new communities and what’s in store for the family business in the coming year. Plus, she shares what new flavors they’ve introduced and what magical holiday treats are available! We scoop five layers of rapid fire at the end, discovering Lynn’s favorite flavor, a cherished memory from the store, what she loves about Chicago, and her favorite cocktail (which does involve ice cream)! Sip along with us this week on the perfect winter cocktail, the “Winter Warmer”. Brought to us by Spirit Hub, we share the recipe in this week’s episode, and you can get everything you need to make this cocktail at spirithub.com! Perfect for your upcoming holiday party or cozy night in, get everything you need from Spirit Hub without having to leave your home! Today’s cocktail recipe is brought to us by Spirit Hub, the leading online marketplace for premium wine & liquor shipping! We’re sipping on a Winter Warmer, and it really is the perfect winter cocktail. The spirits starring in this recipe are one and a half ounces of 4 Spirits Vodka and half an ounce of Elderflower Liqueur. Add your spirits and 4 ounces of cranberry juice and 1 oz fresh squeezed lime juice to a shaker with ice, and shake well. Strain over fresh ice into a coupe glass and garnish with a lime wheel! Get everything you need to warm up with this cocktail this winter at spirithub.com!

Candace Nelson is as iconic as her cupcakes! One of our favorite entrepreneurs out there, she founded Sprinkles Cupcakes in 2005. Considered the first cupcake bakery, the brand has been massively successful thanks to its beautiful cupcake designs, fresh ingredients, and Candace’s vision for an elevated cupcake experience. Candace also has a cookbook, is reinventing pizza, and just released her new book “Sweet Success: A Simple Recipe To Turn Your Passion into Profit”. She sat down with us during her trip to Chicago to tell us all about the book and what it has in store for readers! A freshly baked mixture of tips, tricks, lessons learned, and memories, she gives insight into how to bake up the recipe for success! As podcasters trying to grow our brand for the past two years, let us be the first tell you, we empathized with many of her messier moments and use them to create some of our best! Candace also gave us a glimpse into her journey to becoming an entrepreneur, which included Indonesian cooking, the dot-com bubble, and a willingness to risk it all. We end with a round of rapid fire to find out Candace’s go-to cupcake flavor, her favorite sprinkle, and favorite cocktail! This week’s recipe for the “Sprinkletini” is shared from Salt & Lavender! Find Candace’s new book at your local bookstore, on Amazon, or wherever you get your books! Some links are in our bio!