When I moved to Chicago, I really had no idea what I was getting myself into. I was excited {and really quite terrified} to live in a big city, but I didn’t really know what it would really be like besides what I’d seen in movies. And when I step back to think about it, it kinda seems like a dream sometimes, and a lot of that’s due to the amazing friends I’ve made along the way.

Like last week, when my bestie Kit hooked me up with a ticket to the Chicago Food & Wine Festival completely out of the blue! While I had heard the buzz about the Lincoln Park festival, I was settled on spending the day sitting at home, cranking out some freelance work over a cup of team. Clearly, a boozy, food filled, desert serving party was a much better way to spend a Saturday afternoon – and believe me, it was totally worth being a little behind on work 😉 Bonus: I got to spend the day with a few of my favorite ladies {from L-R} Anne, Kit, Lauren and Kelly!}

Take a little virtual tour of the event, and see some of the my favorite sips and bites from the day! Get in my belly, gazpacho! A Wisconsin original {so obviously I’m bursting with pride!}Build your own mimosas at the Zappos tent!

And just to really make sure I was completely stuffed for the weekend, I kicked off that Sunday morning with the most incredible brunch at Formentos in the West Loop. I managed to wake up 15 minutes before brunch started {which was on the completely other side of town} and raced my way to make sure I made it in time for the mimosas. While I look a little rough for wear on a Sunday morning {we’ve all been there, right?} the food and company we’re both amazing. And, check out that gorgeous patio table! Isn’t it the perfect place to spend a warm, summer morning? These ladies make my heart happy. I’m still pinching myself that I’m lucky enough to be their friends Ricotta blueberry pancakes anyone? Let’s just say I had a few helpings…  Caught in the act by Kelly!  The best toast in the whole wide world. I’m pretty sure I could eat this for breakfast every single day. A huge thanks to Kelly for the gorgeous photos {you’re the best, girlfriend!}