So I have a few questions for you….

Katherine Bach - I saw an idea on pinterest http://pinterest.com/pin/115416328/ and I had to try it. It was a tutorial to make your own camera bag using a cute purse you can buy anywhere & sewing covers for foam inserts to protect your camera. I made one out of a cute faux leather ruffle bag I got at T.J. Maxx for like $25 and I love it! You should totally try it before you go spend hundreds of dollars on a fancy bag.

Samantha S. - Never been to Chicago, but I *LOVE* my Jo Totes bag! Reasonably priced {as in, cheaper than an ephipany!} and fun colors. That being said, if you have time, there are TONS of tutorials floating around on how to convert a purse into a camera bag. Have fun!! ♥

Karla - Best Chicago dog is Gene and Jude’s in River Grove – it was recently voted number one dog in America by Rachel Ray’s magazine. Just don’t ask for ketchup!

Katie L - Definitely Chicago pizza – Giordanos is a good chain, but little places do it great too. Also, Garrett’s popcorn – If you like any forms of fancy popcorn (caramel, etc.) this place is great, though the line is often out the door and down the block a little ways (well worth the wait, though).

valerie - Welcome to Chicago! You can totally come to my house. The traditional Chicago fare of deepdish (I’m partial to Giordanos) or Italian Beef (Al’s is super-greasy and super-yummy) are fantastic. My mom is Thai and our favorite Thai restaurant in the city is “Siam Rice and Noodle” http://www.yelp.com/biz/siam-noodle-and-rice-chicago it’s on the North side and has great sticky rice. The Old Town Triangle (around North Ave & Wells) is full of interesting buildings/streets, and has the famous Second City comedy club. And don’t neglect to take a ride on the “L”!…which you could do if you were coming over to my place.

Jess - Honestly girl, you’re not gonna make yourself a bag? Something seems wrong with this picture! I was lucky enough to win a Jo Tote somewhere around a year ago. It’s cool and everything… but kind of bulky and a little too big & fancy for me. I have an old backpack-style, free-from-the-hospital diaper bag that I padded and covered with patches and pins. LOVE that old thing (but I guess it has emotional value for me too).

Alicia - Definitely Chicago style pizza. Our favorite is Lou Malnati’s. Oh I could so go for a slice right now! Garret’s popcorn is another fave. The Chicago mix (while it sounds strange) is so good! Prepare to have orange fingers though. Portillo’s is great for a dog or burger. My sil recently turned 21 and went to the Signature Lounge at the top of the John Hancock for drinks with friends. She said the view was amazing, the best she’s seen of Chicago. Enjoy! Chicago is such a fun place.

kari signe - As a Chicago suburb native, Giordanos pizza is a definite must for you to try. It is the standard for classic Chicago deep dish pizza (I always request it when I go visit my parents). Science and Industry Muesum is the best and way fun (even as an adult) plus a tourist must is the Bean. My friend has an awesome camera bag but I don’t remember who made it. I will find out for you.

Abigail - regarding fashion, I would say find or make an embellished or dressy tank top, pair it with cute jeans (boot cut perhaps?) and flats (or boots, depending when this photo session is), maybe a scarf (with tassels?), and you’re set! You don’t want to go _too_ far from the tank and flip flops because that is who you are and where you’re comfortable. Who would want a picture that didn’t show you dressed comfortably? You want to be yourself

Michele V - I don’t know so much about the food in Chicago but sounds like a lot of others have pointed you in a good direction. If you have a chance to go to the Blue Man Group I believe Chicago is their hometown and their prices are way cheaper seeing them there rather than somewhere else. We went and were impressed. A great show they put on. And the shopping is great, their stores have a bigger selection than ours, unlike our store selections. I think their Old Navy store is like 3 or 4 floors….so take time for maybe a little shopping.

lindsey - Ashley – DesignSponge has a really great section on Chicago on their city page. They cover all the really unique shops in the city that you may like. As far as eating goes, I have a few friends that live in Chicago and frequent Skylark restaurant. They say it’s very local and delicious food. Look it up!

Ranee - I would second giordano’s pizza as a must…just remember that the pieces are gigantic so you don’t need much to fill up! I need a camera bag, too, so I’m looking forward to reading the suggestions.

Sara - If you love a good burger (Um, seriously who doesn’t?) then go to Kuma’s Corner! Go to their website to their burger menu and prepare to drool….The burger combinations are CRAZY!
Have fun in Chicago! Your little girl is the cutest thing ever!
Xoxo,
Sara

http://www.kumascorner.com/

caroline tyler - 1. Pizza from Lou Malantis is a must. http://www.loumalnatis.com
2. Kelly Moore has a bunch of adorable camera bags! And they are all super functional as a camera bag and a purse/diaper bag at the same time! http://kellymoorebag.com/
3. Ann Taylor Loft has a bunch of cute tees and tops!

Katrina - I’ve never been off the west coast but Gala went recently. Here’s here post: http://galadarling.com/article/chicago-an-international-playgirls-guide. I could give you some ideas.

I just got a camera bag from Jo Totes (http://jototes.com/) and I ABSOLUTELY love it. It’s a beautiful purse and very functional camera bag. Plenty of room for your camera, lenses and whatever else you put in your purse usually. I got a Rose in plum and I was amazed at how useful it is.

As for clothing, I love thrift shops. Elsie at A Beautiful Mess (http://abeautifulmess.typepad.com/) has been fully inspiring me lately. There are tons of cute ideas there.

Good luck and have fun!

Christy - ooh camera bags I would recommend Jototes or Epiphanie bags
I have the (Jototes) Rose teal bag and love it. They are reasonably priced too.

lindsey - oh! and on fashion, I think you would look great in a loose floral-like sundress, belted (maybe try Francesca’s) chunky fun necklace, mid-length cardigan, and cowboy boots. Also, I really like your hair back in those multi headbands!

the whyte house - Have you not seen the tutorials on pinterest for diy camera bags? Oh, my…they’re wonderful. I’d check them out!!

Erin K Miller - HI Ashley,
My husband and I have visited Chicago three times for little vacations and you’re going to have a blast. Our favorite mode of transportation is the “L”. We usually park at the airport and then take the “L” to our hotel. If you do this, find a hotel close to a subway stop. We buy a CTA pass online before the trip and have it sent to us. You can buy daily passes for fairly cheap. We love walking around different neighborhoods. We love “Old Town.” Little Italy has a great restaurant that reminded me of old Italian mob movies. It’s called the Rosebud. The last time we were there, we tried to do the architectural tour because it was highly recommended but it was pretty pricey. If you go over the weekend, you can go early at 8am and get a cheaper fair. There are LOTS of touristy things to do: planetarium, Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, the Bean in Millenium Park, Lincoln Park Zoo is free and fun to walk through.

megan - Definitely check out the Epiphanie camera bags. They are awesome! http://epiphaniebags.com/

Alicia - I’ve never been to chicago so I’m no help there…. and camera bags… well it depends on what exactly you are looking for… shootsac.com is great. I am in <3 with Kelly Moore bags ( kellymoorebag.com )… but they might be a little more purse styled than what you're looking for. As for what to wear… I personally just like to throw on a sundress and call it a day. and on J. Catherine photography blog she has these what to wears that she posts and even though it's for family coordination mostly you can get some inspiration for outfits even with JEANS.. that are FAB and will make you feel like a fashonista for sure!! http://networkedblogs.com/ltsAH

cailan - I still don’t have a camera bag either – anticipating what you come up with. And hope you have some major fun together in Chicago!

Sandy W - The Pancake House is awesome for breakfast!

Minnesotamom - Giordano’s pizza on North Rush. My favorite place by FAR for Chicago-style pizza!
I don’t know if I want to share about the camera bag because there is a limited stock coming back up on Thursday, but it’s SO your style that I will. Jeanne Oliver Designs.
And for clothes, I think a cute modcloth dress with some jeans or leggings and boots would be adorable on you!

Christi Smith - I would LOVE to see you come up with a DIY camera bag. I have been wanting to do this for myself too and I would imagine there are a LOT of women who could benefit from your ideas on this.

I haven’t ever been to Chicago, definitely on the to do list but I KNOW I want to do the architectural boat cruise. It’s a way to see most of the famous buildings in Chicago and some beautiful scenery to boot!

Jessica Lynette - Fun! We were JUST there a month ago on a family trip.
I posted about it here: http://www.jessicalynette.com/travel-2/day-in-chicago/ – we mainly just did the zoo {free} and the Navy Pier {also free, with lots to pay to do}.

Other then some hotdog vendors we didn’t hit up any exciting local food while in the city – really sad we missed out on that as it’s totally something we love doing too!

Chicago is a beautiful city – have fun!!

Emily B. - I’m with several others, I’m sure, when I say…go to Giordano’s!!! Best pizza ever. Also, if you have a chance, look up Molly’s Cupcakes–such a fun place. The Art Institute of Chicago is amazing, as is Jamba Juice (not exclusive to Chicago, but something I always look forward to when we go). There are some sweet thrifting places/all around awesome places in and around Wrigleyville. Have fun!

Kirsten - Well, I’m out for ideas in Chicago. And my idea of dressing up is a clean pair of yoga pants. But I do LOVE my Epiphanie bag. I have a Lola and it is awesome! It is just big enough to carry my purse items, body with lens and 2 smaller and 1 larger lens. They have larger and smaller bags, but all are pretty darn cute.

Kiera Chambers - just a comment on the fashion….be yourself…
you don’t want pictures that aren’t you…so if you’re a jeans and tank top girl just do that with some bling…maybe a tank with ruffles or extra jewelry, and some nice strappy sandals or blinged out flip flops…
don’t go and take a bunch of amazing pictures that aren’t YOU…

Jeannette - I don’t know anything about Chicago! Congratulations to your sister – how exciting for them!! I have always wanted a sister – but it would be especially good if I had one as awesome as you!

Michelle - Hot Doug’s for the hot dog. It’s north of downtown but a quick cab ride. He makes, I believe, the sausages and hot dogs on site. On Fridays, the fries are fried in duck fat. Divine! There’s usually a line around the building, but it moves quickly. And, for a less expensive trip on the river, take a water taxi (picks up by the Wrigley Building) to China Town. I think it’s $6 for an all day pass. Also, Cozy Corner right by the California blue line stop is a yummy breakfast place. Hope you’re staying for about 2 weeks because we all have you going all over the place!

Suz McA - As a former Chicagoan, you MUST try deep-dish pizza (Gino’s East and Lou Malnati’s are faves). The architectural boat tour is always a hit for both tourists & locals. Of course, check out the tourist must-sees – including our favorite parks (Millennium, Grant & Lincoln), Navy Pier, and the Magnificent Mile (I rarely shopped there, but it’s fun to walk down Michigan Ave). There are also some cool suburbs close by & accessible by the L including my former hometown, Oak Park (in addition to a cute downtown with great restaurants, you can visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s home & studio as well as mosey through some really cool old neighborhoods where you’ll find other FLW homes along with other beautiful homes). I’d also add Evanston to your list…. home of Northwestern and just all around a beautiful place (also accessible via the L). You can get pretty much anywhere via public transportation so don’t waste money on cab fares and just pick up a CTA schedule. Have fun! Chicago is LOVELY this time of year!

Suz McA - … other must-sees I forgot about but would second after now looking at the other comments – Museum of Science and Industry, the Sears Tower (now called the “Willis” tower), John Hancock Building, and DEFINITELY Wrigley Field if you are a baseball fan. Get bleacher seats and enjoy a Cubs game!

elisabeth (bovagoods) - jen from “i heart organizing” wrote this great post on her awesome camera bag. she really loves this thing and i can see why!

http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2011/02/february-challenge-project-photography_10.html

Madaline Meatte - I just got back from Chicago last weekend!!! We had a blast. Mr. Beefs…hole in the wall place, delicious italian beef. bring cash for that. you must get garrett’s popcorn…the chicago mix of course. and go to Francesa’s for dinner in Little Italy! (http://www.miafrancesca.com/) Seriously the best italian I’ve ever had. Its not touristy at all! Oh and like the others said…go to Gino’s East. Thanks…now I want Deep Dish Pizza and Popcorn now…. Have fun!!!!

Andrea - We love to visit Chicago!

You must try either Giordano’s or Ginos East. I love both of these pizza places! Visiting the Navy Pier is fun too.

Have a great time!

Mallory M - Oh how I miss Chicago! My favorites are Wrigleyville and Bucktown. Bucktown is more artistic. And you have to go to Portillo’s for an Italian Beef. Yum! I love Giordano’s but also Gino’s is awesome. The walls are covered with people writing their names and what not. There are food tours you could do. I was suppose to do one but ended up being too sick to walk, let alone eat. And if you are in museums, I recommend the Museum of Science and Industry. That’s my favorite one. I personally think Navy Pier is a waste. Unless you feel like spending lots of money on rides.

Leslie - I can’t help with 1 or 2, but 3 I can offer an opinion… denim always seems to photograph well, and you can add pops of color with accessories. There are LOTS of denim chambray options in stores right now…lots of cute little simple chambray dresses.

Hannah B - I’ve always wanted to go to Chicago just to spend every night at Second City shows and maybe take some improv classes. That’s my kind of thing. But then, I saw this special on the food network which made we want to go to Chicago even more….it’s a place called “iCream” and you get to make your very own ice cream from scratch! You choose the milk, the flavor and the color…so you could have chocolate ice cream that’s green and made with soy. Then, during the winter they sell custard and you can create yourself.

Two reasons to go to Chicago: Second City & iCream!

Hope you have a fun trip!!

Hannah B - Oops…I forgot to give you the link to iCream (http://www.icreamcafe.com/)

Sherry - I don’t know if anyone mentioned this already or not (I didn’t read the comments), but I use a Jo Totes bag and love it! It’s so functional and cute at the same time. It comes in many color options. Here’s their site: http://www.jototes.com

Marianna - I’ve been wanting a hobo bag from Kelly Moore – http://kellymoorebag.com/womens/bhobo.html

Celeste - Ashley,

I saw this camera bag on the blog How About Orange. I think it’s really cute. Check it out!
http://howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2011/08/giveaway-kelly-moore-camera-bag.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+HowAboutOrange+%28How+About+Orange%29

giozi - I love the second on the left. Is adorable

Jordan - We lived in Chicago for a couple years, so I’m going to emphatically second several suggestions… We LOVE Greek town, lots of good restaurants, so go with any previous suggestion, but really fun for culture and fabulous food. Giordanos or ginos east just to say you ate Chicago style pizza. The science and industry museum for the dollhouse exhibit among many other cool things. The art institute is free on certain days/evenings so look it up online before you go. And the architectural tour is a must!! You learn and see so much about the city in a short amount of time. So great for an artist! Have a wonderful time!

Anna Joy - I envy these camera bags:
http://kettihandbags.com/
I want one.

I’m not good at giving fashion tips since I’m a jeans, tshirt, and flip flops/Toms girl. Mehhh.

And I’m so happy for Lesley. SO HAPPY!!!

Cassie - P.S. If you’re taking the kiddos, the Lincoln Park Zoo is free and AWESOME. You can get a city pass for all the museums, too. The Shedd Aquarium is amazing, and I think they still have the jellyfish exhibit, which is hands down one of the coolest things I’ve ever seen. I’ll second that the architectural boat tour is really interesting, and a fun way to see the city (probably not with kiddos though).

jenn - Jo totes has the best camera bags! A must have for sure!

Denise - I recently went to Chicago for the fist time and ate at Pizzeria Due. We just sat at the bar the whole time and split the *most amazing* deep dish pizza. *droooooool* Have fun!

Jens - You *must* go to Devon Street!! It’s got a bunch of Indian and Pakistani restaurants and shops. It’s like a Little India. We ate our way up and down that street and had some of the best food of our lives.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devon_Avenue_%28Chicago%29

Sunny - I love my camera bag from Jo Totes. http://jototes.com/handbags (I have Rose in Moss. Its big, so it holds my camera and four lenses plus accessories, but the other bags are a little smaller and just as functional!) I’ve only heard good things about the bags. They are a little bit pricey but good quality, functional and very cute! In Chicago, you should definitely go to Millenium Park and see the Bean (touristy but so cool!), Giordano’s Chicago style pizza is a must and the Art Institute is beautiful.

Joanie - Chicago is one of the best places for “eats” in the country. All the locals have a favorite pizza place, so I would say try Giordano’s or Gino’s East (I prefer Giordano’s, but the cheese is practically a choking hazard. It’s amazing. My husband prefers Gino’s East because they use a cornmeal crust like you can get nowhere else.).

Hot dogs are taken quite seriously here. Portillo’s is a local chain that grew from hot dog cart, but there are lots of little stands around the city. I’d just eat at the ones who have Vienna Beef on the sign somewhere. Also, for a true Chicago dog, the local wisdom is that you don’t put ketchup on it. There wa even an article about it: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/craig-goldwyn/ketchup-on-hot-dogs_b_928338.html

Take an architectural boat cruise. You can drift by the skyline and have people tell you all about the city. I absolutely love this place and hope you have a great time.

Liesel - My husband got me an Epiphanie bag for Christmas last year. I LOVE it and get tons of compliments. I love that the interior sections are velcroed in so they can be adjusted or taken out when you aren’t carrying your camera. I have one that has space for my laptop. I’d love to have a smaller one for just my camera!

Mary - Giordano’s Pizza is my fave. I’m not a deep dish fan, but still love their thin crust! Always stop there when I’m in Chicago. Navy Pier is fun and I love the aquarium.

Emily - I happen to work in the apparel industry and feel like people are always asking me “fashiony” type questions. My best fashion advice is to buy basic clothing. And dress it up with accessories! I love find accessories at Forever 21 (which is also a fun place to shop if you can fit into their sizes) as well as H&M. A really fun necklace and bracelet can dress up the most basic outfit. Wish I lived closer so I could “style” you! Good luck!

Natalie@TheShadyAcre - After years of wrapping my camera in socks or cramming it into a purse, I found an Epiphanie bag (http://epiphaniebags.com/) that I really like. Kelly Moore has cute bags, too, but none of hers had a zippered top when I was looking. I know she’s introduced more styles, so check hers out, too.

heather - is it weird that i find it strangely comforting that you are like me, a mac addict with an android? we have the same sitch, so there will be not be an iphone in my near future. i use the vignette app and i LOVE it. lots of fun options. i think it was $4.99?

Jess - Congrats on becoming an Aunt again!
Can’t help with the camera bag as I am the opposite of you and just beginning my diaper bag days. Trying to find a solution to taking the camera along (other than wrapped in a diaper;).

CHICAGO: We live across the street from the Lincoln Park Zoo and I’ve been in the city for 13 years…DEEP DISH: Lou Malnati’s, Uno and Due are the best. Malnati’s has multiple locations and just opened a new one in the the Gold Coast (we actually call the exact location the “Viagra Triangle.” DOGS: Hot Doug’s is the best! But, out of the way and not a “quick” cab ride. If you’re up for the trek DO IT and you won’t regret it. It’s cash only and check their website to make sure Doug isn’t on vacation. STEAKS: My fav is the Chop House. Gene & Georgetti’s is good too. SCENE-Y: The Roof Bar at the Wit hotel, Sunda sushi/asian fusion, The Girl & the Goat Top Chef Stephanie Izard’s place (so good and the bar is 1st come 1st serve if you can’t get a res). Castaways at North Avenue Beach is just fun. SITES: Millennium Park is a fav of locals and tourists alike. Second City is in Old Town and on cute Wells Street w/boutiques, bars, restaurants Adobo & Topo Gigio…Zanies Comedy Club is also there and good for Stand Up. The Wendella Architectural Tour is awesome. Bucktown/Wicker Park, Lincoln Park/Old Town & Ravenswood/Lincoln Square are all really fun neighborhoods away from the tourist zone. Great little boutiques in all those neighborhoods. Also, the showrooms on the 1st floor of the Merchandise Mart are open to the public and you can look at all the high-end kitchen and bath designs…really fun, but ask before taking pics. Art Institute is great and the Modern Wing is so cool. Look also to see if there are any street festivals. Good Shopping everywhere. Get into the neighborhoods…those are what really make Chicago Chicago. Our fav’s: Malnati’s for deep dish (all over), Spacca Napoli wood fired italian style pizza (Ravenswood), Lula (Logan Square) for brunch or dinner AMAZING, Topo Gigio (Old Town) is solid Italian and the have a good patio. Sorry for the novel:)

tae - CHICAGO!! my birthplace i love casual places, too and I would say that Chicago has really great breakfast/brunch joints. the iconic “Ann Sather Restaurant” (http://annsather.com/Restaraunts%20Pages/Index_Restaurants.html) for the amazing cinnamon rolls; “Toast” (http://www.toast-chicago.com/) – a quirky cute place for brunch and the veggie eggs benedict is delicious!; and then “Orange” (http://www.orangerestaurantchicago.com/Main.html) – not the greatest website, but amazing food! i hope you can check them out! (and if you go to Lincoln Park for either Toast or Orange, be sure to check out that neighborhood; it’s pretty cute.)

for camera bags, I really love the SLR sloop from Photojojo (http://photojojo.com/store/awesomeness/slr-sloop-camera-bag/). it works great and is cute. I also have a Jo Totes (http://jototes.com/index.html) bag for “fancier” camera-necessary occasions and i love it, too. I don’t think they have the style that i purchased anymore but there are a bunch of options there.

Debbie C - So excited that you’re coming to Chicago! I’ve lived in or near Chicago my whole life. One of my favorite restaurants to go to is Lula Cafe (lulacafe.com). It’s in the Logan Square neighborhood and they offer really good, fresh American-style food using local ingredients. The menu changes with the seasons. Not the most kid-friendly place, but it it’s just you and Chris, give it a try! If you are on Michigan Avenue in the morning, a good breakfast place is Yolk in the South Loop area (http://www.yolk-online.com/). Hope you have a great time!

Rutheah - Chicago!! How fun. I don’t have any cool suggestions as to where you should go…however, I did just get a nifty camera bag for my birthday! It’s a J. Tote…or Jo tote…something like that. I looooove it and it’s doubling as my purse/diaper bag too. Hehe. It even has a pocket that perfectly fits the iPad! So there’s my two cents.

Emiles - LOVE Chicago! Lou Malnati’s for pizza is amazing! Get a Chicago dog at any street vendor really. You’ll also want to find a good Italian beef sandwich while there. As for places to go – we’ve gone to the aquarium every time in town never disappointed. I love Milennium Park– pack a picnic or grab a dog and just head over to people watch and enjoy the day. This is also a good place to go after hitting the Pier all day…which is a place you should definitely go. The views from the Sears tower and John Hancock to me weren’t totally worth the wait in line. Finally we never have had a car in the city that we regularly used. Public transportation is fabulous convenient and cheap! Parking is not! OHHHH and definitely get the Chicago mix popcorn at Garrett’s. I agree with you on shopping…I tried it once in Chicago and everything was so expensive it was ridiculous.
As for places to get clothes…I’m currently in love with Banana Republic. They run deals online all the time for 40%25 off and I have to be pulled out of their outlet stores.

courtney - The best food I’ve ever had in Chicago was at XOCO, a Rick Bayless place. The line is long (you order and pay at a register, but they won’t let you order til there’s a table available), but SO WORTH IT. Everything there is good, but especially the desserts…homemade soft-serve vanilla ice cream with maple bacon streusel and a caramel sauce. Or the churros dipped in the crazy dark chocolate sauce.

I also love making the rounds of the ten billion photobooths in Chicago…it’s a great way to see discover little Chicago neighborhoods. You can find where they are at http://www.photobooth. net. Have fun!

Kimberly - YAY!!! CONGRATS on being an AUNT AGAIN=) So happy for your family!!! LOVE Chicago but only been there once:( Have a WONDERFUL time.

Alison - Well you’ll need a good coat and a good scarf and probably some mittens – Old Navy has a decent trench right now, but you could probably find a better one. The wind off the lake can be fierce! But then again it can also be hot as ballz so you need shorts as well. City dwellers tend towards solids more than prints, and I say that having lived in a few. And deep dish pizza! You must get yourself some Chicago deep dish! There is a Swedish/Lesbian district in town (you have to think that those are related) but I forget where it is. If you feel like spending money on a meal, Chicago has a few of the world’s best restaurants and chefs (Michael Kornick, and some other chefs I’ll never remember the names of). Epicurious.com has a great little “chicago’s best restaurants” list! Also Chicago has a really gorgeous old theater some place, but that’s a landmark and you can’t miss it. Vietnamese sandwiches are also good there. You could go to Second City!! Oh my gosh go to Second City. It’s near the Cubs stadium. Tina Fey, Rachel Dratch, Tim Pryor, Amy Sedaris…oh my gosh so many people are alums of Second City, and they do shows all the time for pretty darn cheap. GO THERE

Katherine - I haven’t read through all the posts so I don’t know if I’m repeating things here, but here goes:
I’m a lifetime Chicago resident and I love my city! I really think you’d love the Lincoln Square neighborhood (different from Lincoln Park) up north. There’s so many cute little shops and a great German restaurant called Laschett’s – if you’re looking for German – a total dive but the food is fantastic. Also, there’s a beautiful bakery called Cafe Selmarie that has ah-maz-ing baked goods and delicious food.
Hmmm…. Definitely check out the main attractions – Art Institute, Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium. Walk along the lakeshore. The Architecture boat tour is worth the cost of the fare – you learn so much and it’s really fun and relaxing. Woo hoo! Have a blast and take lots of your beautiful pictures to post!

christa - Chicago is a great city to visit! So much to do! Ive seen only a few postings for Portillos, but I would recommend it as the # 1 place to try. There are locations all over the chicagoland area. Good EVERYTHING – ESP their chocolate cake! You also must try a chicago style hot dog. And also very “chicagoan” is the deep dish pizza. There are 3 places all competing for the top spot: Giordanos, Uno’s, and Lou Malnati’s. All are good, and everyone has their own favorite. I would def check out Millennium Park on Michigan Ave to see the “bean” and the spitting faces. A walk up and down Michigan Ave will also give you great shopping and lots of people watching. A walk along the lake or on Navy Pier is a great idea as well. Have fun!

Jennifer - I went to Chicago 20 years ago with 4-H. We had dinner in Greektown and Chinatown and ate Chicago-style pizza. Yum! Another fun place was Ed Debevics–do a google image search to see a little about it. I ordered an epiphanie bag (ginger in brown) several months ago, but I won’t get it for several weeks.

amanda torres - You HAVE to go to Jimmy’s Red Hots. Just google it. It is definitely a local place. No where to sit. You walk through this little building to order, then eat outside or in your car. The polishes & hot dogs are wrapped up with fresh cut fries that are the best I’ve ever had. My mouth is watering just thinking about it. Whatever you do DO NOT ask for KETCHUP! Be sure to visit the Art Institute (such a great collection and I think Tuesdays are free, maybe not all) and then a quick walk to Millenium Park (gorgeous). Giordano’s is not a local dive, but it is the best Chicago style pizza. We’ve eaten many different pizza places and it remains my favorite! Also, do Navy Pier and Lake Shore Drive. Really pretty. Lincoln Park Zoo is also neat. A zoo right in the middle of the city with free admission. If you’re already in the Lake Shore Drive area, you should walk through. Okay, my novel is over as I do not have any valuable to say about the other 2 questions.

Carol V - You might want to check out this Etsy site. My daughter bought me this camera bag and I love it.http://www.etsy.com/listing/80499846/camera-bag-messenger-style-in-rich. As far as photo session outfit, I love jeans and tank top! Simple, add one cha cha in the form of jewelry or scarf. Have fun.

Robyn Burgiel - You HAVE to eat a “Fat Johnnie’s”….the BEST hotdogs in Chicago! It’s not in the best neighborhood, but worth it…7232 S Western Ave, Chicago IL 60686.
If you see Fat Johnnie (ummm, you can’t miss him), tell him Tillie’s daughter, Robyn, sent you!

Jenni - 1st- I LOVE that you are giving tips on photoshop actions… thank you!

Now, to your questions:
1. I have yet to visit Chicago so I can’t help you there… although, I will be excited to see what you do so I can add a few things to my travel list!
2. I would check out JoTotes (http://jototes.com/handbags) for a cute/functional camera bag. They are currently having a giveaway at 1825 (http://eighteen25.blogspot.com/)! Heck, you might be able to snag them as a sponsor and get to try one out!
3. I LOVE your style. I think you should totally rock your style in photos… afterall, they are supposed to capture you in a moment in time. But, if you want to up the ante on your own style then I’d check out the many cute fall outfits being “pinned” on pinterest nowadays!

Rebekah @ It Only Gets Better - Camera bags: If you want a do-it-all laptop, camera, accessories enormous bag then I suggest Epiphanie’s Clover bag. I have one that I like to travel with so that I only have one bag to keep up with.

If you want a fashionable but more reasonably priced option I just discovered JoTotes’.
http://jototes.com/handbags Millie bag (I want one for me!)

If you are cheap and just want something more versatile and easy to carry, like me, then I suggest a Built bag that you can get for less than $50 at Adorama.com. I use my bright orange small Built bag for photo sessions ’cause I can keep it slung over my shoulder and it doesn’t get in the way.

http://www.adorama.com/catalog.tpl?op=itemlist&cat1=Cases&cat2=Camera%20and%20Gear%20Cases&cat3=System%20Bags%20%26%20Cases&Feature1=Built

Sarah - Horray for going to Chicago! As someone who is originally from there I have to respectfully disagree with those telling you to go to Geno’s East, very touristy and greasy. BLAH. You can get better pizza elsewhere. Also the ladies that suggested the smaller neighborhoods I think are going to be what your looking for. Cool vibes and local dives. Have fun this is a great time of year to visit Chicago.

Stephanie - I have only been to Chicago once and I loved the boat tour. I do not have a camera bag because I dont have a camera yet Yes that is my sad face. I however vote to wear your tank tops and flip flops in your photo session. Oh and I LOVE your new kitchen chairs! You always have some awesome scored thrift finds. I hope I can find/score 4 chairs soon any advice on where? My husband is going crazy with all my flea market adventures.

Debbie C - A couple more restaurants to try: Chicago is Rick Bayless land! Try Frontera Grill for awesome Mexican, or go to Xoco, right next door, for more casual Mexican or hot Mexican chocolate. If you want Spanish tapas, go to either Cafe Iberico or Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!, and make sure to get some sangria too. Both places are really good, and really crowded on the weekend evenings, so try to go during the day or a weekday. Enjoy!

Jenn - Here’s my fave outfit I’ve seen on Pinterest. Still tank top and jeans just a little dressed up! http://pinterest.com/pin/152453746/ Have a fun trip!

Abby - I love love LOVE my epiphanie bag http://epiphaniebags.com/. Was also lusting over a kelli moore bag for awhile…. http://kellymoorebag.com/ happy shopping!

MissJillian - Oooh, we are celebrating our 10 year anniversary in Chicago this winter so I started a Pinterest board dedicated completely to Chicago – restaurants, lounges, attractions, hotels. Maybe it’ll help. Here’s the link: http://pinterest.com/missjillian/chicago-anniversary/ Happy trip planning!

Laurie - Check our Kelly Moore’s bags. So Cute!!! I have one and love it!

kellie s. - Giordano’s and Portillo’s – just like others said.

Jenny B. - Fun!! I’ve only been to Chicago once, and it was for a wedding several years ago. The rehearsal dinner was at Giordano’s Pizza http://www.giordanos.com/ (don’t know which location), and it was DE-LICIOUS!

Alyssa - Hi! I have lived in Chicago for 6 years ago and know a thing or two about the best, less expensive things to do. Here you go:
- My favorite place to eat (and Tina Fey’s) is Athenian Room in Lincoln Park. AMAZING cheap Greek food. You must get the Greek fries.
- The zoo is free and beautiful, also in Lincoln Park.
- For food after the zoo, either R.J. Grunts or Pizza Oven and Grinder (although it’s not “typical” deep dish).
- For the BEST deep dish go to Pequod’s in Lincoln Park (it has a caramelized cheese crust), but Giordano’s and Malnati’s are good too. I stay away from Gino’s East.
- To get great city views, don’t go to the Sears Tower. Go to the Hancock on Michigan Ave. and go to the Signature room. The entrance is on Chestnut Street. You don’t pay to go up there…instead buy a drink or appetizer. The best place to take pictures…the women’s bathroom!
- The architectural tour (really any of them) are a must. Amazing information and views.
- At night check out a jazz club on Lincoln Ave. in Lincoln Park. (Chicago Blues is good)

Hope that helps!

Krystina - Oh I almost forgot the more important part! What to visit.

Go to Millenium Park. It’s free and there are some fun things to see, like the bean/cloud gate. It’s near the Art Institute. Also, Navy Pier. If you are there on a Wednesday (and Sunday?) there is a fireworks show at night. I’d pick the John Hancock Tower over the Sears Tower (and if you go to John Hancock the concierge at the top will give you a business card, if there’s a line at Gino’s East you show them this card and you jump to the front of the line!)

There’s also lot’s of good shopping, Lake Michigan is nice. That’s all I can think of for now but I know I’m missing all sorts of stuff.

Amy -

Chicago is my hometown and there are a few hidden secrets beyond the multitudes of first timer hot spots. Check out the free museum days! (Yes they’re free on certain days). Millenium Park will offer you a break from the concrete with free dance lessons in the park (also check this out!). Navy Pier has a free firework show (set to music) every Wed and Saturday night at 9pm (or 9:30). Oak Street Beach will give you a day at the beach like none other (you’ll feel like you’re getting the best of both worlds). Use the public transportation if you can, its cheap, and can get you ANYwhere you want to go.

Some helpful links before you leave:
http://www.metromix.com (Chicago)- everything that is going on and more info than you’ll ever need.
http://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com (we offer many free perks to the Chicago visitors (movies in the park, etc.)

http://www.transitchicago.com (transit system) You can take the Orange Line from Midway Airport all the way into downtown and beyond, as well as taking the Blue Line from O’Hare Airport into downtown and beyond. No cabs ever needed.

Last but not least if you get a chance. Have a Bacino’s (yes Bacino’s) stuffed pizza, Brunch at either Yolk, or Sweet Maple Cafe (both are better the earlier you can get there), and try not to leave town without at least a bite of a italian beef.

Have Fun!!!!

Jessica - I saw this on Pinterest and thought it was super cute . . . and not too camera-y.

http://jototes.com/handbags/rose-marigold

Becca C - I have a feeling you’d love the ideas of http://www.bodenusa.com. Super cute and funky clothes- and all so colorful! their prices are crazy, but they have an “outfit maker” that’s pretty fun to imagine what things look like together. I mean, I’m all about Target after going on their website. Treat anything as a neutral and wear it together…at least that’s what I used to tell people when I worked retail haha.

Susan - I love my lowepro backpack…it’s not the cutest, but it is soooo handy to carry around. i tied some ribbons to the zipper to give it a personal touch. It get get dirty when we hike and play in the mud, camera stays clean, and I throw it in the washing machine. Holds my phone, credit card, snacks, and cash. Everything I need when I’m with my camera, hubby, and kiddos!

Melissa - For old school Italian food, go to Gene and Georgetti. We went to Chicago about 4 years ago when I was pregnant with my first. The food was amazing. The pizza at Lou Malnati’s was really good. We stayed at Palmer House and loved it. Have fun, it is an amazing city!

emily (justem) - I live in Chicago and pretty much everything that I wanted to say has been said, but I’ll say it again.

Pizza – I prefer Giordanos to Gino’s East. Gino’s has a cornbread-y crust that I’m not a fan of.

Other restaurants – A friend and I have dined a couple of times at Davanti Enoteca in Little Italy. It’s SO good and not touristy. I also second heading up to Devon (pronounced DeVON)for some great ethnic food.

Navy Pier – just walk outside for the view…the inside is hideously touristy. I do like the stained glass museum, though.

Architectural Tour – My favorite is the Wendella combined river/lake tour because you get both the architecture part on the river but also the great views from the lake.

The View – John Hancock is better than Sears Tower, but skip the overpriced dinner on the 95th floor…just get a drink.

Museums – The Art Museum and the Field Museum are both incredible, but a little stuffy and a LOT to see. As others have said, I prefer the Museum of Science and Industry. It’s just FUN.

My favorite places to just meander are Oak Park (out of the city), the Armitage neighborhood/L stop (brown line), the Southport neighborhood/L stop (brown line).

Transportation – take the L!! Or cab it. Paying for parking is just plain silly!

Monica - Thanks for the freebie link, Ashley. I’ve never been to Chicago, but I hope you guys have a great time. And how totally rad that little Miss Sweet P is going to be a big sister!

Sharon Osborn - Borsabella.com makes some great little gadget bags that I use for my camera. You can request a skinny shoulder strap so that you can carry it cross body too

MaraMay Baca - I have been wanting Belle from epiphaniebags.com since the beginning. lol There are also these fabulous looking bags on etsy the shop is called mariforssell.etsy.com, I love them. I want one of each. LOL Good luck and I can’t wait to see what you end up getting.

Nicole - Which reminds me…we’ll be married 7 years this month and I still don’t have a wedding album…I purchased the digital negatives but haven’t done anything with them save for having a few prints made – how sad is that?!? To be fair, we’ve had three children in that time so the album hasn’t exactly been top of mind great idea on your wedding photos – they look great! You guys do look young! But I can’t believe how much I have aged in the last five years since our oldest was born – a little scary but I’ll take some dark circles and fine lines for those little stinkers for sure! Happy Anniversary!!

Kristin - I live in the Chicago suburbs and LOVE Chicago. It is by fa my favorite big city in the US. Giordanos is my fav. Chicago deep dish. Also Pockets is a yummy little restaurant. I have heard amazing things about Salvage fom some friends although I haven’t been able to go. The zoo’s are a blast, Brookfield and lincoln park even without kiddos. Improv Olympics or second city is too much fun. Any place u go will be fabulous. And if u are there on a Sunday and need a place to worship New Hope church of Villa Park would love to see you.
And about your pictures. I agree with going with a dressed up version of yourself. Jeans a fancy tank or cute tunic shirt, bling sandals or flats. I am a huge fan of the Loft for fancier casual clothes. have a blast with your hubby in Chicago. Oh and the Kane county flea market is awesome if you have a rental car.

valerie - Just to whet your appetite for all things Chicago: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D8pmNwvbV3Q&feature=share

Ashley - I have a Kelly Moore camera bag that I just used on a two week trip to Portland, OR. I love it! It isn’t the biggest bag you can get, but it held my camera body w/50mm lens attached, my 18-105 mm lens, and all my personal items as well. It looks just like a cute purse! http://kellymoorebag.com/womens/bhobo.html
My friend has an Epiphanie bag that she used for the same trip and she loved it! http://epiphaniebags.com/#/shoplola/

Ashley - I love my Kelly Moore camera bag!

Kellie B - I have some wardrobe suggestions for your photos:

a) Skinny jeans, cute flats, and a flowy top. Your husband should wear something equally casual chic, like jeans and a sweater, etc.

b) Dressier outfit: a cute dress with or without a belt.

I like when the photographer lets you change outfits, that way you have a few different options if one doesn’t turn out. But, you are so cute that anything you wear will be darling.

Jamie - Camera bags….Kelly Moore, I have the B-hobo in grey…LOVE it! Although I now wish I had gotten the next bigger one.
Also LOVE Jo Totes! Super cute bags and a little less expensive then Kelly’s bags!

Aimee - My friend Ketti makes the most adorable camera bags… I have 2! Love them! Ketti Handbags.

Meg - Since I am too lazy to read through all the comments..Garretts popcorn- Caramel corn for sure, though many swear by the Chicago mix (caramel/cheese popcorn) If you are flying into O’Hare there is a shop there, otherwise a couple all in the city.

Nicole - I put my camera in a soft lunchbox! It’s not too bulky or too expensive!!

W - Also….90 Miles Cuban Café, Artopolis Bakery & Cafe, Ken Kee Restaurant

As many have already mentioned, Architecture boat tour, drinks at Signature lounge of John Hancock building.

If you don’t have time for the Architecture tour, take a water taxi ride.