Monday, May 11, 2015

Discovering Vintage Chicago Book Release Party!

Thursday, May 21st we are excited to announce a book release party for Discovering Vintage Chicago by Amy Bizzarri from 6-9 pm at Le Thrift Consignment.

Meet the author and hear about her experiences with visiting and learning some of Chicago's most famous and "vintage" businesses.

During the event, there will be a vintage, rockabilly styled fashion show. Small bites will be served by some of the books featured restaurants and businesses. Enjoy a glass of champagne and shop consigned, designer vintage and contemporary clothing at 10% off. A portion of proceeds will be donated to Bridge to Success in Chicago.

We were excited to interview Amy about her experiences while writing the book.



What was your inspiration to do the book? 

I was inspired by all the businesses that are unique to Chicago; the historic businesses that
Optimo Hats at 320 S Dearborn St., Chicago
make our city so special. How could anyone step into a fast food joint when we live in a city that has Lem’s barbecue rib tips, Kurowski’s kielbasa, Manny’s matzo ball soup, and Lindy’s chili within reach? You can’t even compare the products and services of the businesses featured in this book with those of mass retailers, either: Just try putting an Optimo hat on your head—you’ll ooze with elegance. Burn a beeswax
lambathe from Athenian Candle and watch it glow longer than any candle you’ve ever lit. Bite into an Andersonville coffeecake from the Swedish Bakery—and you’ll have a hard time returning to the artificial ingredient–laden cakes found at most grocers…Chicago just wouldn’t be Chicago without these historic, one-of- a-kind places, and the people that run them from behind the scenes with nothing but love, hard work, and pride.

In a nutshell, what is the book about? 

Discovering Vintage Chicago is a guide to all of the city’s timeless classic spots that take you back in time. The book spotlights the charming stories that tell you what each place is like now and how it got that way. It includes indexes that let you choose the places you want to visit by neighborhood, by category, and—naturally—by era. Discovering Vintage Chicago takes you to classic restaurants, shops, and other establishments that still thrive today and evoke the unique character of the city. They’re all still around—but they won’t be around forever. 

What is your favorite place to go in Chicago? 


Margies Candies at 1960 N. Western Ave., Chicago
I will always love Margie's Candies. Nothing says summer quite like a Hot Fudge Banana Split from Margie's Candies, with its three jumbo scoops of ice cream, swirls of whipped cream, banana, sprinkling of nuts, wafer cookie and of course, a cherry on top. It's even sweeter if you share the happiness that is a Margie's sundae - so remember to ask for two spoons.



What was the most interesting experiences you had while writing this book? 
I was thankful for the many family members who shared their most cherished memories with me. Their hard work and dedication to their craft, whether it be finding a rare record for
Superdawg at 6363 North Milwaukee Ave., Chicago
a customer, drawing out a perfect draft of beer, or serving an ice cream sundae with a smile - are not only the secrets to business longevity but also what makes Chicago the great city that it is. I also have so many personal memories tied to the places in this book: trips to the Berghoff with my Grandma Lofthouse, during the holidays; taking my own children to Superdawg still in our snowsuits after an afternoon of sledding at Caldwell Woods, spending Saturdays just driving around the city with my parents, both of whom grew up in Chicago.

What is your favorite vintage item? 
I love any and all retro dresses. From the elegance of the '40's to the boho style of the '60's, I am inspired by fashions of yesteryear.  

Where can you purchase the book? It's available now on amazon.com


Discovering Vintage Chicago - Book Release Party
Author - Amy Bizzarri
6-9 pm
Le Thrift Consignment - 1821 W. Chicago Ave., Chicago IL

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