Listen guys, I know I fudged up. 

Life got a little crazy and I haven’t been around and I’m like that terrible ex that just pops back into your life but let’s pretend instead that I’m like the Rachel to your Ross and sometimes I disappear but in the end I come back for good and I don’t move to Paris (#spoileralert) and everything works out and you still love me and we agree I’ll never ever leave again, deal? Deal. 

So, since I was M.I.A for a hot second, I wanted to make sure I came back with ONLY the coolest stuff for you guys. Remember that time I went to Nashville and found so many amazing gems? Well for all my Chicago followers, I wanted to bring you some local goodies that are just as amazing as the ones I found when I was traveling. 

Yesterday was a perfect summer day in the city with my girlfriends and after a bomb brunch at Whisk (if you haven’t been, you need to get there ASAP), we took a stroll in West Town and found some great local stores owned by even cooler owners.

First up was Paperish Mess, located at 1955 W. Chicago Ave. If I ever opened up my own store I’d want it to be just like this and I’d want to be as cool as Lisa, one of the store owners. Lisa, who is an absolute gem herself, owns the store with her fiancé Sean. She and Sean carry USA made and Chicago based artists of all kinds. From the gorgeous jewelry, to a variety of prints, and even adorable goodies and decor for little ones, the store is on point. They are still working on an online store so if you’re in Chicago you have to go check them out in person, it’s a must. 

I wanted it all but my bank account disagreed so I ended up purchasing these two gorgeous prints. Lisa and her fiancé had met these artists and like me, couldn’t say no to their work. Specifically, Lisa mentioned she fell in love with their “Siren” series (I purchased 2 but there are 4 in the collection). As Lisa said herself, she loved how they showcase beautiful and strong women of all cultures and I was sold. 

Check out more of their work here!

ps. how cute is this felt succulent they sell at Paperish Mess? Thinking this will be a DIY project I’ll be bringing to you all soon…

From there we headed to RR#1, a store my friend loves, especially for finding unique gifts for all. The   über hip and fun ladies working, Christine and Lauren, were wonderful. They were gushing over the most crystals I’ve ever seen in one place and I can’t blame them. I definitely will be back to pick up more. My favorite piece, (besides the hilarious cards my friend found below) had to be the Morning Thunder candle. Guys, I can’t even begin to tell you how perfect it is. You need it in your life. 

RR#1 is definitely the place to go to find hilarious art for your place (or as a gift for your friend) and a multitude of pieces you won’t find anywhere else. Basically you should all just flock there. Like Paperish Mess, they do not sell online so you’ll have to go in store at 814 North Ashland Ave.

Finally, I leave you with this gem I found at Paperish Mess. I recently binged Game of Thrones and could not stop laughing at this, I mean,  it’s amazeballs guys. Hope it made you giggle as much as it did for me.

Until next time loves,

XO, Samantha