Putting It All Together

As early spring shows signs of life, we endure the Midwest’s muddy March and unpredictable April. In March, those who stay home from spring break travel enjoy less traffic on the roads. We wish those families who do travel a safe and fun journey. We start to think about all the things we’ll do when the temperature slowly climbs higher. Graduations, dance recitals, anniversaries, Mother’s and Father’s Day, local cultural events, and fundraisers. Calendars fill up and we see more sunshine each day.

Behind the scenes of our long list of events are those who create them. There are visionaries, organizers, party planners, decorators, and heavy lifters. Mosie Potts Himes—beautifully featured on our cover with the help of Linda Barrett’s keen eye and stunning photography—has risen to the level of Master Home Stylist, knowing what it takes for her clients to really love their homes and host successful events. She knows how to put it all together. We share her interesting career path from working with top luxury brands and even our local Barrington Flower Shop, to starting her first business, OMO Designs (On My Own). Her clients trust her, and she delivers services that are as unique as each client she serves.

We feature two other women—true leaders—whose paths cross for their work with WINGS, a nonprofit dedicated to breaking the cycle of domestic violence. In our Guest Essay “Home Safe Home,” WINGS president and CEO Rebecca Darr credits the Barrington community for its significant role in WINGS’ growth. In this issue we also honor Ellaine Sambo-Reyther, WINGS’ chairwoman (along with her other key leadership roles), as our Quintessential Person®. Together, they and the amazing WINGS support team offers victims of domestic violence shelter from harm, and the chance to dream of a better life.

As I put together this issue (that would be my 112th QB) top of mind are those who help make this, Barrington’s signature magazine, possible. Special thanks to my staff, talented photographers, graphic designers, writers, community contributors, content and business partners, my press partner, and especially our fantastic and loyal advertisers.