COUNTRY VS. TOWN: AUBREY MCCARTHY

AUBREY MCCARTHY is one of those incredible women whom you meet and instantly want to know everything about. Simultaneously warm and assured, you know instantly that if you have a problem, she’ll help you solve it and if you just received good news, she’ll be the first to toast to your success.

She holds a high-powered job, is a super mom to her two children, and is launching a brilliant home maintenance company with her husband Neal. In addition, she is a founder and board member of March Fourth and has traveled to Washington D.C. four times to meet with lawmakers and advocate for The Go Safe Act. This bi-partisan legislation is supported by lawmakers from both parties and independents. “I want my children to know I did all I could to make their world the best it can be,” she says.

Support in Hinsdale has been strong. Many local parents appreciate the opportunity to learn more, attend a fundraiser, even display a March Fourth yard sign.

Aubrey learned to seize the day from her beloved parents, who always encouraged her to advocate for what she wanted. She is bringing that spirit to ensuring safer schools and public spaces for all.

Do you have a mantra? Tomorrow isn’t promised, no better time than now. This mantra has been a solid compass for me, throughout my life. On your reading stack? just finished The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt… an eye-opening read for parents given the social media world we now live in. On deck, I’m excited to shift to a mystery All The Dangerous Things by Stacy Willingham What organizations do you support? I am a Board Member for March Fourth (501c4) and Aftermath (501c3), since its founding following the Highland Park Tragedy in July 2022. Those who know me well, are familiar with my passion to reinstate bi-partisan legislation to better regulate automatic and semiautomatic rifles. In addition to keeping children and communities safe, the 501c3 arm of the organization is focused on fundraising to support victims, families and communities impacted by mass shooting tragedies. I’m also a huge advocate for organizations dealing with mental health and loss of loved ones. As someone who unexpectedly lost a mother (and father) in my 20s … I deeply believe in pouring time and resources into causes that support navigation through the grief process. What’s your signature entertaining style? This will vary based on the party and plan. I do love a daytime gathering where drinks and appetizers are flowing just as much as the conversation and laughs. If time allows, I have fun creating charcuterie boards and a simple tablescape. Any daily rituals that make you feel centered? Before uttering a word: hot water and lemon first thing … then coffee. On days my schedule allows for a walk to and from Madison school, I’ve found such peace and gratitude in those simple few moments with my kids. We are fortunate to live in this special community and that occasional morning walk reminds me of just that. Music you love? Frequent morning playlists include: Maggie Rogers, Noah Kahan, Lake Street Dive, Benson Boone, Bon Iver. Favorite winter tradition or activity? The competitive figure skater in me cannot be shaken with age! We always make time to go ice skating downtown each year. It started as a tradition when my husband and I were dating… and now we love to bring the kids.

WHEN IN THE COUNTRY

What’s your go-to outfit? By day: Leggings and “business” top of sort. By night: Silk dress or skirt, sweater, booties Is there anything you can’t leave the house without? If not my phone (which is camera/calendar/credit card/to-do list all in one at this point), it’s my sunglasses. Where do they know you by name? Honest answer? UPS. Our house has two full-time working adults …so all shopping for the family is done online by yours truly. Returns are plentiful to say the least. Grateful every day for our nearby UPS and the wonderful staff there. Next best answer is Open Door in Clarendon Hills. We’ve been there often since they’ve opened, and I love the casual, welcoming atmosphere and wide selection. If an ad agency asked you to write a commercial for your town, what would you say? I grew up going to Hinsdale’s Christmas Walk with my mom, and after church on weekends we sometimes found our way to the downtown shops or Gateway Square. Nostalgia brought me back here to consider this location for my family’s next chapter in 2020. Between the charm, countless parks, vibrant downtown, top-rated schools, energetic community and giggling kids running safely throughout tree-lined streets…Hinsdale provides a plethora of pinch me moments in close proximity to one of the BEST big cities in the world. Are you sold yet!?

WHEN IN TOWN

What’s in your bag? Dior lip oil, Blistex, peppermint gum, phone, a rogue fidget toy from one of my children, and sunglasses. View that never gets old? Office view within the Aon Center – overlooking the lake + Maggie Daley + Millennium… OR…the riverbend as you walk Wacker and approach the Wells Street Bridge by the Merchandise Mart. Two favorite views, all seasons, can’t be beat. Best quick bite or hidden gem? Tilly Bagel. It’s on my mind more than I’d like to admit. Do you have a favorite museum? While I wish I visited more, the Art Institute always takes my breath away. Visiting mid-week and then off to Music in the Park at Millenium Park is a great way to play tourist in your own city. Best thing about town? The energy…on days I’m downtown I feel so energized by hustle and bustle. Also, it is just such a CLEAN and walkable big city with endless options of fantastic cuisine, shops, entertainment. Worst thing about town? Limited parking, maximum traffic…and rats! What is your favorite movie filmed or set in Chicago? I spent ~12 years in the Lincoln Park/Lakeview area single, engaged and married so several “favorites” have been featured in The Break Up. As a lover of romantic-comedies I appreciate the scenes and familiar settings in that one!