COUNTRY VS. TOWN: ERIKA ERNST

Originally from Crystal Lake, Ernst spent a decade in Chicago where she attended college and worked as a Human Resources professional. After marrying and starting a family, she and her husband, Shawn, moved to Barrington to raise their children. She is now a proud stay-at-home mother of three children ages 8 years, 5 years, and 5-months-old. Ernst stays actively involved in her community through volunteering and is a member of Barrington Junior Women’s Club.

Mantra? Love and enjoy the journey Best grooming tip? Monthly facials Guilty pleasure? Iced coffee and watching (currently) Traitors Favorite foods? Sushi and chocolate are my absolute favorites. I love Mexican food as well Music you love? ’90s grunge and emo when I’m feeling nostalgic. Otherwise my go-to is alternative/indie rock Best advice ever given to you? Focus on what you can control and let go of what you can’t Best advice you’ve given? Embrace your unique qualities, don’t shrink yourself to fit in Earliest memory? Driving in the car with my dad and grandma to meet my baby sister Before bed, you? Read or watch TV What’s on your bookshelf? Right now I’m reading Brimstone by Callie Hart You can’t live without? My husband and kids Love to escape to? Italy Advice you would give to your younger self? Everything will work out how it’s supposed to

WHEN IN COUNTRY

Your style is? During the week you will find me in athletic wear or anything comfortable Can’t leave the house without? Sunglasses and belt bag Transportation? Mercedes SUV Driving music? Usually what my kids are listening to. Until recently that consisted of the KPop Demon Hunters soundtrack on repeat Place to eat? Gigi Wine Bar and Bistro, and The Greggory. I love Ambrosia and Country Donuts for a treat Shop? Angelina’s Best thing about country? The community. I also enjoy having more space and the nature and wildlife Worst thing about country? Lack of (variety) of restaurant options The perfect day is? Quality family time the first part of the day: going out for breakfast, a good cup of coffee, and a family walk. I’m a homebody so for the end of the day I love getting takeout for dinner followed by a movie with my husband, after the kids are in bed

WHEN IN TOWN

Your style is? Depends on what I’m doing, but I typically prefer to dress up Can’t leave the house without? My crossbody bag Transportation? Walking when I can, otherwise Uber Place to eat? Kai Zan Shop? I don’t love to shop in person, but it’s fun to stop in the Lincoln Park and Bucktown shops Best thing about town? Walkability and diverse food options. It’s great to have Michelin star dining within reach Worst thing about town? Parking and traffic The perfect day is? I’m such a foodie, so my perfect day would center around good food—omakase is a must—and I’d wrap it up with a concert at night