Chicago Gateway Green, a nonprofit organization that seeks to sustainably beautify Chicago's gateways and communities, received some national attention as the beneficiary of the Victoria's Secret exclusive, invite-only VIP reception to mark the grand opening of its Michigan Avenue store. Hosted by the gorgeous "Angels," superskinny-supermodels, the evening was attended by Gateway Green supporters, city officials and even some of my client friends like restaurant designer Jillian Harris and folks from Garrett Popcorn Shops.

Garrett Popcorn Shops Magnificent Mile Grand Opening

October 15 marked the grand opening of Garrett Popcorn Shops' flagship store at 625 N. Michigan Avenue. It also happens to be Garrett's 60th Anniversary as a beloved Chicago brand. I started planning the celebratory activities surrounding these milestones back in July, and the results were "Magnificent." On Tuesday we had a private VIP reception at the store, co-hosted by Concierge Preferred magazine. We brought in Levi Restaurants to cater premium cocktails and finger food- including beef sliders served in Garrett wax paper bags out of Hawkers boxes. Here I am at the party with Alecia Dantico, director of social media for Garrett, and interactive media guru Amy Korin.

On Thursday we officially opened the doors to the public, and despite the pouring rain and cold temps, we had a line around the block for hours. We handed out blue Garrett Popcorn Shops ponchos (rain or shine, there's always a line!) and gave away prizes like free popcorn and 60th anniversary commemorative T-shirts reading "Love can be messy," and complete with orange CheeseCorn fingerprints.

Finally, on Saturday, we invited Mayor Daley, Alderman Brendan Reilly, John Chikow from Greater North Michigan Avenue Association, and more special friends for a ribbon-cutting ceremony and tour of the kitchen.

What a week! It is official- Garrett Popcorn Shops is finally back on the Magnificent Mile!