1. Alixandra Collections
   If you are looking for that perfect accessory, Alixandra Collections is the place to start your search (and most likely, end it). You can find more than accessories in the cozy store which features women’s clothing as well. 259 Market Square in Lake Forest, 847-234-1661, shopalix.com
2. ActivatorCycles
   With the summer upon us, it is time to break out the helmets, water bottles, and bikes. Activator Cycles is the place to go if you can’t find your helmet or if your bike needs a tune-up. Located right off the bike path in Lake Bluff, getting a bike checkup could not be any more convenient. 36 East Center Avenue in Lake Bluff, 847-863-7366, activatorcycles.com
3. Let’s Have Fun
   Let’s Have Fun is the new perfect place to have a party or spend an afternoon. Whether it is splatter painting in the upstairs studio, having fun together in the party room, or painting with glow-in-the-dark paint in the glow-in-the-dark room, there is something for everyone of every age. 266 East Deerpath Road in Lake Forest, 847-295-7727, letshavefunlakeforest.com
4. Lake Bluff Brewing Company
   If any new business is here to stay, Lake Bluff Brewing Company is at the top of the list. Environmentally friendly practices, products bought locally, and beers such as the Belgian Monkey set Lake Bluff Brewing Company apart from any other small craft brewery experience. 16 East Scranton Avenue in Lake Bluff, 224-544-5179, lbbrew.com
5. Gifted
   Gifted is a store that thinks of everything for you. You can find a gift, get it personalized, and get it wrapped all in one visit. From picture frames to bags, they can paint, print, and embroider it all. 840 South Waukegan Road in Lake Forest, 847-235-2573, giftedlakeforest.com
6. Salon Kallisto
   Who doesn’t enjoy a little pampering every once in a while? Perhaps you’re in need of a haircut. Either way, it is time to try out the new Salon Kallisto in Lake Bluff. A relaxing atmosphere and friendly staff make this salon a place to try. 12 East Scranton Avenue in Lake Bluff, 847-482-9922, salonkallisto.com
7. J.McLaughlin
   Both women and men will be able to satisfy their wardrobe needs at J.McLaughlin in Lake Forest. A recent addition to Market Square, the store boasts a delightful window display and even more charming clothinginside. 261 Market Square in Lake Forest, 224-544-5399, jmclaughlin.com
8. Wisma
   Wisma makes dinner easy, period. All you have to do is take the freshly cooked meal home, pop it in the oven, and voilà, dinner done! 24 East Scranton Avenue in Lake Bluff, 847-234-1805, wisma.us
9. Twigs
   Here at Twigs, the flowers speak for themselves. Elegant and casual come together to create exquisite designs. 38 East Center Avenue in Lake Bluff, 847-234-TWIG (8944), twigslakebluff.com
10. The Fresh Market
    If you haven’t been into The Fresh Market yet, it is about time you should. Featuring a mix of staple groceries and specialty foods, getting what you need for dinner is easy to do at this grocery store. 850 Western Avenue in Lake Forest, 847-482-0643, thefreshmarket.com

—Mary Kate Doherty