Chicago Elite Launch Party

Vineyard Vines Dress c/o (Old, shirt version here, here and here, and similar dress here) and Bangle c/o / J.Crew Pearl Earrings / Vera Bradley Satchel c/o / Barbour Rain Coat c/o Barbour (Also available here and here. And Vineyard Vines cuteness here and here!) / Charles David Wedges c/o L.L.Bean (Clearly the only pair of cute wedges I own) / Helen Ficalora Necklace c/o / Kate Spade Sunglasses (Old, but love this similar pair by Tory Burch)

Guys, I love Chicago. Do I miss New York like crazy? Yes. But I freakin’ love the Windy City.

I do not, however, love its wind, as contradictory as that statement is, haha. OR its propensity for abruptly changing up the weather. One second it’s sunny; the next it’s foggy and drizzling.

Friend photos: Sunny and happy.
Outfit photos: #wtf?

(Dad, #wtf means “Where’s the food?” I swear.)

Okay. Our winters are rough. Really, really, really rough. They make you question your existence, and why would anyone ever choose to live in this godforsaken city. But then the clouds part, the snow melts, the rooftops open, and the bunnies emerge. (Not sure why this is, but Chicago has a very serious bunny situation. On my walks with Noodle, I’m not exaggerating when I say that I see dozens of them. They’re everywhere.)

And everything is perfect. There are patio and backyard parties to attend, long walks on the beach to be taken, and boat rides on the lake to be had. And it’s all easy. You know. In comparison to the Big Apple, where it takes a zillion years to get from one location to another, and driving is simply not an option.

Sorry for the abusive usage of italics. And parentheses, come to think of it. I’m aware of the problem, but I blame the chardonnay.

Cough, cough.

Anyway.

^At it again. ;)

Last week, Mitch and I, along with some really great pals, attended the christening of the Chicago Elite, a private yacht that docks itself at Navy Pier. The weather was a little bit iffy (surprise, surprise, Chicago), but it was such a blast.

The Elite, which can be rented out for private events, has three amazing levels: a dining deck with a VIP room, complete with a fireplace and huge television; cocktail lounge with covered outside area; and a skydeck with patio seating and city views. And it’s gorgeous!

Of course, a big storm rolled in right as we were about to embark on our little cruise. But I’m sure you’ll have better luck when you go. ;) Want to experience it for yourself?! Have brunch, lunch or dinner aboard the Elite!

…and check out the photos from the Elite’s christening and reception below. :)

Thanks for the photos, Mitch. You always rock it. xoxo

(Above photo by Hallie Duesenberg Photography – Instagram/Twitter)

(Above photo by Hallie Duesenberg Photography – Instagram/Twitter)

(Above photo by Hallie Duesenberg Photography – Instagram/Twitter)

(Kit, Jess, Lauren, Emily and Blair)

(Above photo by Hallie Duesenberg Photography – Instagram/Twitter)