Stephen Neilson

Mar 28, 2025 | citylifestyle.com | Michael Beightol |Stephen Neilson

Long Grove has been long recognized as a quaint village located just northwest of the capital of the Midwest – Chicago. The historic downtown with lovely covered bridge lacks the glitz and glam of Hollywood, but a picturesque setting still attracts filmmakers seeking to create films with a distinctly Midwestern backdrop.

Nov 28, 2024 | citylifestyle.com | Michael Beightol |Stephen Neilson

The holidays are all about spending time with family and friends. Here’s a short guide of some of the best ways to get out-and-about with the family (or the family that you chose) in Chicago and the suburbs this month. Christkindlmarket, the annual German-style Christmas market at Chicago’s Daley Plaza and Aurora’s RiverEdge Park, provides a safe, free, outdoor experience for the whole family.

Nov 28, 2024 | citylifestyle.com | Stephen Neilson

Let it never be said that the locally-born-and-bred winter sport of competitive Burling could possibly be considered a mere excuse for people to gather together, drink beer and other wonderful winter-inspired beverages, and while away the wilding winter weather with friends flinging frozen jugs at cans of corn careening across carefully-curated courses of slitheringly-slippery ice while having an absurdly great time together.

Sep 28, 2024 | citylifestyle.com | Michael Beightol |Stephen Neilson

Cookbooks are as essential to family chef as a sharp knife. They provide an endless source of practical knowledge and inspiration. The best cookbooks transport us to places and tastes we want to experience. We’ve assembled a selection of cookbooks here that not only whet the appetite, but stand-up to the notion that a good meal is both transcendent and a heartfelt expression of care to anyone gathered around our table.

May 17, 2024 | citylifestyle.com | Stephen Neilson

Featured ArticleTake a Look at a Remarkable Family Retreat Tucked Away in the Trees. Article by Stephen NeilsonPhotography by Stephen Neilson and VHT Studios Originally published in SW Lake LifestyleWhen I asked the current owners of the remarkable property for sale at 462 W. Oakwood in the Timberlake community north of Barrington to share their thoughts on the neighborhood, they exuberantly responded.