Typical day at the office: In this job, no two days are alike but a good day is one that has allowed me to pitch stories to media, write a press release, send out tweets and post on Facebook, brainstorm with colleagues on future promotions and entertain in one of our hotels’ fabulous restaurants.
Achievements I am most proud of: My current job. I grew up in the small town of Louisville, MS. When I packed up my car and left 13 years ago, I was just hoping to gain some journalism experience and then move back. I never dreamed I would be overseeing the public relations for two of the world’s, and Chicago’s, premier luxury hotels.
Projects I am working on: Spring promotions for our hotels including restaurant events and offers and travel packages for Spring Break.
Words of Wisdom: “Failure is a man who has blundered, but is not able to cash in on the experience” by Elbert Hubbard is one of my favorite quotes. Professionally and personally, we all make mistakes but if we can acknowledge and learn and grow from them, we are better having been through that experience.
Work uniform: Our dress code is professional and conservative so I wear lots of suits and dresses. I love the classical elegance of Ann Taylor and Banana Republic and always try to punch them up with fun, colorful tops and jewelry. This past year, I purchased some jlee silver dresses that are perfect for going from day to evening.
Where I go for inspiration: The fitness center at Four Seasons Chicago. Often I get inspired while working out and looking over the Mag Mile.
Postcard perfect: Stunning views from Four Seasons Chicago
Favorite charities: Common Threads, Chicago Children’s Choir, Children’s Memorial Hospital and PAWS
Favorite store or boutique in Chicago: I love Francesca’s for fun jewelry, tops and unique gifts for friends and family.
Favorite restaurant in Chicago: Of course, I love dining in Seasons at Four Seasons Hotel and the deca Restaurant at The Ritz, but I love the casual charm and delicious Italian food at La Scarola.
Favorite travel destination: St. Martin/St. Maarten. My husband and I went there for our honeymoon and then went back a few years later. You have both French and Dutch cultures on one island. We ate our way through the French restaurants in Grand Case, on the St. Martin side, and enjoyed exploring the island's stunning white sand beaches.
Paradise found: French St. Martin and
Dutch St. Maarten
Who I most admire: My sister, Debbie. She lives in Louisville and has five children – three of whom are triplets. I remember a time when she had five children, all under the age of five. She has raised a wonderful family while working as a registered nurse. Her patience and approach to life never cease to inspire me, especially on those days when I think I just don’t have time to fit everything in.
Three words that best describe me: Creative, motivated and accommodating
My celebrity crush: My husband, Matt, will always be my number one crush but if I had to pick a celebrity it would be a toss up between Kyle Chandler – he plays the coach on Friday Night Lights - and the very dashing Chris Noth on The Good Wife and Sex and the City. Two very different types of men, I know!
With my husband, Matt, and son, Liam
Most decadent thing I have ever purchased: This is a tough one because anyone who knows me knows that I am a budget shopper and always on the lookout for a sale. I am going to ask my husband – he can probably answer this best for me.
Favorite songs on my iPod: Beer in Mexico by Kenny Chesney and Viva La Vida by Coldplay. Those two songs always put me in a good mood.
Book I am reading: I just finished The Help and it was one of the best books I have ever read.
Guiltiest pleasure: Sprinkles cupcakes
Pretty little things: Sprinkles iconic cupcakes
Facebook or Twitter: Professionally, both. Personally, I just use Facebook.
I stay home to watch: Friday Night Lights
The best gift I received this holiday season was: My 3-year-old son's sparkling eyes on Christmas morning, a Mississippi State resounding win in the Gator Bowl and a pair of Patagonia pants that have been the perfect answer to this Chicago winter.
My top New Year's resolution is: To relax more and enjoy life's simple pleasures.
One thing about me that no one knows: I was "Miss Hospitality" for Winston County in Louisville.
Advice for anyone pursuing a career in Public Relations: Diversify your background and experience. You can make yourself more marketable if you have a variety of skills and experience such as writing, social media, marketing, public speaking, pitching stories to media. Stay well-versed on the latest computer programs for writing and publishing.
Luxe File Chicago has dedicated its site to the “love of living luxuriously”. Finish this sentence, “When it comes to living luxuriously, always…” Allow yourself the time.
Rebecca Kussmann
Owner
Bettie Bomb, Inc. Public Relations
Stylish spinmaker and media master Rebecca Kussmann loves garnering great press for her fashion-focused and trendsetting clients while keeping us front row and in the know.
Clients: White Chicago, Bright Pink, Cerato Boutique and Fertility Centers of Illinois and more.
Typical day at the office: My days vary depending on meetings, TV segments, etc. At least three days out of the week I like to just sit at my computer and pitch all day and pitch which It's my favorite thing to do.
Achievements I am most proud of: Moving to Chicago from a small town in Michigan nine years ago. It was so hard to leave my family and friends but I’m thankful that I made the decision because I met my husband, Mike Kussman, after being in the city only a couple months. And, of course, launching Bettie Bomb, Inc. Public Relations.
Projects I am working on: The Chicago launch of BareDeal.com, White Chicago’s Second Annual “Meet the Experts: Arming the Recessionista Bride” event, Brides Against Breast Cancer “Dress Drive”, Bright Pink’s Second Annual Fit-Fest, Fertility Centers of Illinois’ National Infertility Awareness Week and Art wear Unlimited Fashion Show at Highland Park Country Club.
Words of Wisdom: "Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning to dance in the rain.”
Work uniform: At the office I’m always in sweats and a hoodie. If I’m out, I wear anything that makes me feel feminine, stylish and classy!
Where I go for inspiration: The kitchen – I adore cooking and feel the most inspired when doing so – and the gym – working out energizes me and gives my life balance.
Favorite charities: Bright Pink, Chicago Canine Rescue and Step Up Women’s Network
Favorite store or boutique in Chicago: Cerato Boutique, Lori’s Shoes, Target and White Chicago for brides
Bridal paradise: White ChicagoFavorite restaurant in Chicago: Le Colonial and The Purple Pig
Favorite travel destination: Miami, skiing in the west and anywhere tropical
Who I most admire: My parents for their constant support and love (I tell them they’re my cheerleaders); my husband for his intelligence and how he pushes me to stay strong; and all of the women entrepreneurs who are driven, successful and positive.
Three words that best describe me: Optimistic, trustworthy and compassionate
My celebrity crush: Matt Lanter (“Liam” on 90210) andJay Kenneth Johnson (“Phillips” on Days of Our Lives)
Most decadent thing I have ever purchased: My Furla bag in green (my favorite color) pebble grain leather
Favorite songs on my iPod: Any song by PJ Harvey, Radiohead and Teenage Dream
Burning up my iPod: PJ Harvey
Book I am reading: America Alone by Mark Steyn and The Fall of Advertising & The Rise of PR by Al Ries and Laura Ries
Guiltiest pleasure: Days of Our Lives
Facebook or Twitter: Both, but I prefer Facebook.
I stay home to watch: The Cooking Channel, HGTV and 90210
The best gift I received this holiday season was: Time spent with my whole family in Michigan plus time off with my hubby, Mike, and our two pups.
My top New Year's resolution is: Focus on working smarter, not harder and take advantage of every opportunity.
Mike and I at our favorite restaurant in Naples, Florida
One thing about me that no one knows: I detest scary movies – if I watch one, I can’t sleep for days. I can’t even watch the previews on TV.
Advice for anyone pursuing a career in Public Relations: Make sure you get a lot of experience working in a variety of environments (i.e. large corporate firms and small boutique agencies) and understand the different ways publicists implement their PR efforts. This is something I wish I had done before starting on my own! Always be honest and courteous with the media, friendly to your colleagues and diligent for your clients – they will all love you for it!
Luxe File Chicago has dedicated its site to the “love of living luxuriously”. Finish this sentence, “When it comes to living luxuriously, always…”: Keep it classy!
Michelle Molise
Principal
Molise PR
When she isn’t promoting big ticket events like Chicago Gateway Green’s annual Green Tie Ball and the Auto Show’s First Look for Charity Preview Gala, Michelle Molise is busy keeping her clients, including reality stars Jillian Harris (ABC's Extreme Makeover Home Edition) and Stephanie Castagnier (NBC's The Apprentice), on our radar.
Clients: Lawry's The Prime Rib, Garrett Popcorn Shops, Imerman Angels, Enclave Nightclub, The Fedora Lounge, Cuvée Chicago, The Dobbins Group and more.
Typical day at the office: A day could start as early as 5 a.m. for a TV shoot and end as late as 2 a.m. for a nightlife or red carpet event. When we’re office-bound, it is less glamorous. Basics include scanning through all the local publications, monitoring good old Google, researching angles and crafting timely pitches, checking in on social media streams, honoring client and media deadlines, and simply generating new concepts and ideas.
Achievements I am most proud of: The tiny daily triumphs that come from running my own business. For example, QuickBooks used to be my mortal enemy but now we're on friendly terms.
Projects I am working on: We have the Toque & Bottle Advisory on the Chicago Auto Show's First Look for Charity Gala next month, Imerman Angels "You Complete the Picture" event at Salvage One, an American Red Cross blood drive with Jillian Harris and Ed Swiderski at Loyola, Enclave nightclub's Scion Spin Off DJ contest and the '85 Bears Super Silver Celebration, Valentine's Day at Lawry's The Prime Rib and so much more.
Chicago Auto Show's First Look For Charity
Work uniform: Consists of an unfortunate amount of black and grey but I always dress up. In this profession, you never know when you’ll be called on in a moment’s notice to represent a client in a public capacity.
Where I go for inspiration: My husband Chris Weber has a level head and guides me over hurdles. He has a calming effect on me...let’s call him the “Publicist-Whisperer”.
Favorite charities: Imerman Angels one-on-one cancer support organization. I’m proud to say I’ve been their publicist since the beginning. His staff and volunteers have touched so many lives and there may also be evidence that he’s hugged everyone in the nation. I’m also on the associate board for Chicago Gateway Green. We’re gearing up for their 25th anniversary with a “silver” Green Tie Ball in 2011 and paying homage to the specific Chicagoans who have supported the organization through the decades. It will be legendary.
Earth Angel: Jonny Imerman of Imerman Angels
Favorite store or boutique in Chicago: I just did a design segment for ABC 7 with Jillian Harris and The Dobbins Group, and they introduced me to vintage tableware store P.O.S.H. I was charmed! As for clothing, AKIRA reigns. They have a team of visionaries.
Favorite restaurant in Chicago: Lawry’s The Prime Rib. They are a client and they are like family.
Favorite travel destination: I’m excited to head to Greece in the spring so I’ll mark that as my favorite for now.
Who I most admire: Smart, ambitious women who are independent thinkers. Stephanie Castagnier, from The Apprentice, falls into that category. In particular, she shares great advice about financial freedom for women.
Three words that best describe me: Good question! I’ll go with tall, female and human.
Most decadent thing I have ever purchased: I’ve accidentally purchased a few Prada bags over the years. Oops.
Favorite songs on my iPod: Final Countdown by Europe. Kidding.
Book I am reading: Mother of Pearl. Mom lent it to me.
Guiltiest pleasure: Watching reality TV while sauntering on the treadmill at EBC and counting it as a workout.
The guilt-free zone: Chicago's East Bank Club
Facebook or Twitter: For my clients, it varies. Personally, I prefer Facebook where I don’t have to truncate my thoughts.
I stay home to watch: Dancing with the Stars. I’m a big fan of the performing arts and this glorious show is on steroids.
My celebrity crush: Derek Hough
The best gift I received this holiday season was: My husband booked us a trip to Napa Valley to taste some grape juice.
My top New Year's resolution is: Be proactive about staying healthy - both mind and body.
Advice for anyone pursuing a career in Public Relations: Know your market and its media. Learn how to write. Think from a journalist’s perspective. Read a newspaper every day to stay current. Understand social media and how it relates to your personal brand. Be thorough. Work harder and more carefully than everyone else. I could go on and on.
Luxe File Chicago has dedicated its site to the “love of living luxuriously”. Finish this sentence, “When it comes to living luxuriously, always…”: Thank your lucky stars.
Amanda Puck
Executive Vice President, Public Relations
XA, The Experiential Agency, Inc.
With her effortless ability to keep the tabloids talking and her coveted list of A-list clients happy and in the headlines, Amanda Puck – the original host of Check, Please! and a coveted guest on countless TV and radio shows – is no stranger to the spotlight herself.
Clients: The James Hotel, The 900 Shops, Le Colonial, Sofia, John Allan's and more.
Typical day at the office: My day usually revolves around lunch. My entire staff will tell you I am starving by 10:30 a.m. Client conference calls, meetings, LUNCH, more meetings, twittering, brainstorming, writing, and, of course, XA client events at night.
Achievements I am most proud of: I am proudest when our clients achieve great things. Just a few examples - Bistro 110 receiving the Bib Gourmand, NoMI receiving a Michelin Star rating and Sofia recently appearing in Nylon Magazine.
Projects I am working on: The Gene Siskel Film Center Oscar Night America event on February 27th and The James Hotel's five year anniversary this April.http://www.siskelfilmcenter.org/oscarnightamerica2011
Words of Wisdom: "It’s PR not ER". I learned that one from Erica Stimac at XA and I think it sums up our day.
Work uniform: It evolves, but my favorite look right now is heels, fringe, leggings, long luxe tees, and my Jay Godfrey cardigan. It allows me to look put together, yet still ready to move!
Where I go for inspiration: The people I meet and work with everyday.
Favorite charities: Common Threads and Vital Bridges
Favorite store or boutique in Chicago: The 900 Shops, Karen Millen, space519, and Sofia
Pretty Dress Paradise
Favorite restaurant in Chicago: I’m lucky I have great restaurant clients and, therefore, am very well fed.
Favorite travel destination: Paris
Who I most admire: My mom – how did she do it all?! And might I mention she is a fox!
Three words that best describe me: Fun, focused and loyal
My celebrity crush: Josh Duhamel
Most decadent thing I have ever purchased: My green Hermès Medor watch
Favorite songs on my iPod: “Teenage Dream”, it’s constantly in my head 24/7 and anything by Schwayze or Metric.
Pop Tarte Katie Perry
Book I am reading: Glamorama by Bret Easton Ellis
Guiltiest pleasure: Reading Glamorama
Facebook or Twitter: Both
I stay home to watch: Modern Family. “Gloria” is my new fashion icon, she inspired me to buy a push up bra.
Modern Family's Sofia Vergara
The best gift I received this holiday season was: My enamel and gold hamburger charm necklace from my besties from Opening Ceremony at The Ace Hotel in NYC.
My top New Year's resolution is: Eat more great food! Unstoppable in 2011!
One thing about me that no one knows: I wanted to be a geologist.
Advice for anyone pursuing a career in Public Relations: Network! Network! Network! It’s all who you know.
Luxe File Chicago has dedicated its site to the “love of living luxuriously”. Finish this sentence, “When it comes to living luxuriously, always…”: Wear sequins for breakfast.
Sally Shorr
PR Specialist
Morton's The Steakhouse
As a restaurant publicist, Sally Shorr spends her time touting the achievements of the world's most revered steak house chain and proving that beef is always best.
Typical day at the office: Peruse my emails and respond to media requests. Marketing meetings to plan what we're promoting at Morton’s as well as writing and pitching. Usually have lunch delivered then schmoozing with food and wine writers.
Achievements I am most proud of: My dating and scene column for Today’s Chicago Woman. I love writing about all the fun events in Chicago and enjoy hearing from single readers how my experiences have helped them to meet new and interesting people.
Your go-to guide for fashion, fêtes and finding "Mr. Right"
Projects I am working on: Promoting our new Valentine's Day cocktail, The Red Velvet, as well as our new heart-healthy menu and USDA prime steaks.
Words of Wisdom: "Look at the future and be blinded by its possibilities."
Work uniform: Soft and sexy translates well for me from office to outdoors. I like mixing it up and often pair the hot new accessories with favorite designers threads from Stella McCartney, Burberry, DVF and Miu Miu. Gucci and LV stilettos are must-haves for chic rooftop parties and Michael Kors sleek minimalism pops on the red carpet.
Where I go for inspiration: I stick to what I know best - Chicago. The people, places, and raw power of this town are all-encompassing. It’s important to travel and experience new cultures, but Chicago is still the best kept secret for gaga – from the best restaurants and hotspots to most wanted retail boutiques. Chicago is nothing short of fabulous.
Favorite charities: Make-A-Wish Foundation, Bright Pink and charities that focus on women and children’s issues.
Be Bright Pink
Favorite store or boutique in Chicago: Intermix and Material Possessions
Favorite restaurant in Chicago: Morton’s The Steakhouse, Publican, Purple Pig, RL and NoMi
Favorite travel destination: Valencia, Spain (International) and Islamorada, FL (Domestic)
Who I most admire: Men and women who rise above personal adversities to pursue and live their dreams to the fullest.
Three words that best describe me: Creative, BFF, and fashionista
My celebrity crush: Eric Bana and Cameron Diaz
Eric Bana
Most decadent thing I have ever purchased: A two-bedroom condo in West Palm Beach, FL
Favorite songs on my iPod: An eclectic mix - from Paul Oakenfold and Timo Maas to U2 and Tim McGraw
Book I am reading: Classy by Derek Blasberg
Guiltiest pleasure: My stiletto heels collection
I ♥ sexy stilettos!
Facebook or Twitter: Facebook is my secret addiction. I’m thinking about either writing a book called,Facebook: The Best, The Worst, The WTF or starting a FA (Facebook Anonymous) Chicago chapter.
I stay home to watch: Entourage
The best gift I received this holiday season was: My trip to Palm Beach to spend the holidays with my family and friends.
My top New Year's resolution is: Attend Fashion Week in New York, London, Milan and Paris
One thing about me that no one knows: I want to write a movie screenplay or (reality) TV show about two twins who make it big in love and life.
Advice for anyone pursuing a career in Public Relations: PR is about two things - strong writing and strategic pitching. If you can do both well, you’ll be a great publicist. Always strive to be the best; go big or go home.
Luxe File Chicago has dedicated its site to the “love of living luxuriously”. Finish this sentence, “When it comes to living luxuriously, always…": Hire a great publicist.
Achievements I am most proud of: My dating and scene column for Today’s Chicago Woman. I lwriting about all the fun events in Chicago and enjoy hearing from single readers how my experiences
James Goeke, Kevin Charles Schwarz and Megan Taylor
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