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Summer is finally uon us! With sunny days soon to be the norm around our Chicago, IL apartments, we thought we'd share some helpful tips to ensure our residents can plan great get-togethers over the coming months.
1. Plan in Advance
Impromptu, spontaneous soirees are fun, but they often leave a lot to be desired in terms of the number of attendees who can join. By planning your event at least a week in advance, you'll give people with kiddos and other obligations time to make your get-together fit into their calendars.
2. Designate Dishes
You don't need to spend a ton of cash by catering your party. Instead, designate dishes to each guest so you'll have a full table of delectable bites once everyone arrives. It may sound silly, but if you put everything into a spreadsheet, you'll be able to easily track what people are bringing so you know if you need to head to the store to cover any gaps before guests arrive. Here's a quick run-down of things you'll likely need:
- Appetizers
- Salads
- Chips
- Entrees
- Desserts
- Drinks
- Plates and cups
- Napkins or paper towels
- Plasticware
If you're aware that some people on your list have dietary restrictions, try to keep this in mind when you're parsing out the menu. For example, vegetarians would be completely fine with a chicken-topped salad, as long as the chicken stays in its own lane (or in a bowl next to the salad greens).
3. Provide the Sunscreen!
If you'll be entertaining guests poolside or enjoying a barbecue chef's famous ribs, be a good host and have sunscreen on hand. Your guests will thank you when the sun starts scorching and they realize they didn't bring any UV protection.
4. Load Up Your Music
You never want to wait until the room's fallen awkwardly silent to realize you don't have any music ready. Load up your list before people get there. If you have an eclectic crowd coming, try to mix a little bit of everything so each guest will have the opportunity to enjoy his or her groove.
Are you searching for a Chicago apartment that offers a long list of incredible amenities? You've found your new home! Check out the reasons our residents love our North Harbor Tower community!
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]]>The post Chicago Coffee Shops Worthy of Your Consideration appeared first on North Harbor Tower Blog.
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In today's mobile economy, people are taking meetings on-the-go at all hours of the day. Sometimes, the residents of our Chicago, IL, apartments find coffee shops to hide in, so they can get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Other times, they seek coffee shops where they can meet with potential clients or enjoy the benefits of working remotely. Fortunately, there are dozens of great spaces near our community that'll afford you the workspace or quiet time that you need.
1. Drunken Bean
Thanks to a friendly staff of people who are willing to welcome you as soon as you walk into the space, this place has made a name for itself. People love it for its cozy atmosphere and tasty pastries. Be advised: There aren't a plethora of outlets available, so if you're planning to work all day, get there early.
2. Two Zero Three
If you're looking for a place to take clients that's got an aesthetically appealing vibe in a space that's pretty quiet, you've found your match! Located inside the Virgin Hotel, Two Zero Three caters to business travelers and locals who want to work not far off the Magnificent Mile. The coffee concoctions are creative, and the space is sure to please anyone you're sharing your time with.
3. Dollop Coffee
Love people watching? Dollop's got you covered! Thanks to an enormous array of seating options, from backless barstools to comfy couches and seats that overlook the goings-on of Chicago, Dollop is a go-to place for people who enjoy a great cup of Joe inside an inviting atmosphere.
4. Cupitol Coffee & Eatery
If delicious food and unbelievable coffee are the things your dreams are made of, Cupitol is here to please. Fill your belly or caffeinate your body until cocktail time comes around. This space was created to allow friends to enjoy each others' company, acquaintances to get reacquainted, and business relationships to flourish. It's the perfect place to go if you're looking for a delicious dish alongside your cup of java.
If you or someone you know are on the hunt for a Chicago apartment that's within walking distance of great coffee shops, we'd like to introduce ourselves! Stop by North Harbor Tower so we can give you a look around!
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]]>The post 4 Ways to Enjoy What’s Left of Winter appeared first on North Harbor Tower Blog.
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While it's true that winters are often something the residents of our Chicago apartments wish away when temperatures get super frigid, this season is also one of the most spectacular times of the year in the Windy City. Since we still have a little while before spring officially settles in, we've found a few ways you can enjoy what's left of winter.
1. Go Ice Skating
Nobody said you have to be stellar on skates to enjoy the experience of an outdoor ice-skating rink. In fact, if you can barely stay vertical atop the blades, you'll fit right in with tons of people who are putting their own skills to the test.
2. Sip Hot Cocoa Outside
Whether you head to a local park or take an urban hike by hitting the city sidewalks, a steaming cup of hot cocoa should accompany your stroll. It's important to get outside and enjoy some fresh air, but it's also important to keep your body toasty and warm. Hot chocolate has a way of adding a childlike whimsy to an ordinary day, especially when winter's still on the calendar for a few more weeks.
3. Check Out the Zoo
Although the zoo is home to many types of animals all year long, certain species are more likely to spend time outside when the thermometer is still on the lower part of the scale. If you're bummed that the polar bears and penguins never seem to want to come out and play when you visit the zoo in June, schedule a trip to their habitats in the winter instead.
4. Take a Stroll Around the Botanic Garden
Just as the zoo has an alternate personality when winter settles in, fauna and flora showcase different sides of themselves during this part of the year. Some of the flowers you're used to may be deep in a slumber, but you'll likely encounter a few plants you didn't even know exist. As an added bonus, the Botanic Garden tends to be a lot less crowded when it's cold.
One of the best ways to enjoy Chicago's winters is from the comfort of your own beautiful downtown apartment. Take a look at the views our North Harbor Tower apartments could offer you!
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