COUNTRY VS. TOWN: MARIE RUNYAN

MARIE RUNYAN was raised in a close and loving family in Downers Grove. Living in Hinsdale keeps her near to her parents, who are now the most devoted Mimi and Papa to her two children, and just down the road from her sister. That is especially lucky as the two are best friends.

She met her husband, Adam, at Creighton University. Shortly after graduating, the couple moved to Southern California, where Marie worked for several years as an ICU nurse before founding a concierge nursing business. “I enjoyed the opportunity to make deep connections with my clients while providing high-level, personalized nursing care,” she says.

West Coast life included learning to surf, taking their two boys to the beach, exploring tide pools, catching gorgeous sunsets, and being outside every day. However, once their oldest son neared school age, they decided to move back to the Midwest so the boys could grow up near both families.

“We love raising our boys in Hinsdale. This town is a wonderful, tight-knit community. I love that our kids can walk home from school, meet friends at the park, or ride their bikes downtown for ice cream. When we take family walks to town, it is common to run into friends along the way. These connections are what make Hinsdale our home.”

Marie recently helped launch Rush Concierge Medicine in downtown Hinsdale. This practice provides patients with the highest level of personalized care, tailored to their individual needs.

She is also a passionate traveler. “ I love Hinsdale, but Paris has my heart. Adam and I go every spring and enjoy walking the city and picnicking along the Seine with a bottle of wine and a baguette,” Marie says.

Mantra? Presence over perfection. On your reading stack? I am in a book club with an amazing group of friends. It has introduced me to a variety of great books. This month we are reading a new Kristin Hannah novel, The Women. My personal favorite is A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles. “A life well lived is not measured by the length of time, but by the depth of experiences.” What organizations do you support? The past few years I’ve volunteered on Madison Elementary School’s PTO Executive Board. It’s been a wonderful opportunity to support our amazing schools, students, and educators. We also actively support The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and The Community House. Hinsdale has no shortage of people with giving hearts, it is very inspiring. What’s your signature entertaining style? We love hosting dinner parties for family and friends. My husband and I are a great team. He’s the chef (his homemade pappardelle and short rib ragu is legendary) and I put the champagne on ice. What has surprised you about living in this area? While not surprised, I’m perpetually impressed with how kind, generous and thoughtful the people of our community are. I’m blessed to call so many of these amazing people friends. Any daily rituals that make you feel centered? My day always starts with a long walk with the dog. The fresh air, exercise, and a few moments to myself help center me before the craziness of the morning takes over. If my schedule allows, I’ll also try squeeze in a class at Core Power yoga. The classes are great and it’s always nice to catch up with a few friends. Music you love? All music! Most recently, a friend took me to see the Zach Bryan Band for my birthday. The band is so talented, it was amazing to see them live. A few of my other favorites are Chris Stapleton, Taylor Swift, The Rolling Stones, and Whitney Houston. My boys and their carpool friends have also introduced me to a wide variety of new music. The jury is still out on most of their recommendations though. Favorite summer traditions? The 4th of July in Hinsdale is the best! When we first moved here, we started a little bike parade for the kids on the block. It has since become a tradition that has grown to include friends and families from all over town. I love watching the kids say the Pledge of Allegiance before taking off around the block on their bikes decked out in red, white, and blue. What advice would you give to your younger self? “The days are long, but the years are short.” Enjoy and live in the moment.

WHEN IN THE COUNTRY

What’s your go-to outfit? A simple T-shirt, jeans, and sneakers. Where is your favorite place to walk? Katherine Legge Park, Waterfall Glen, and Morton Arboretum are all local favorites. Is there anything you can’t leave the house without? My phone. I use Apple Pay for everything! Where do they know you by name? If you ever need to find us on a Friday night, try Giuliano’s Pizza. They make us feel like family and are one of the many small, locally owned businesses that make Hinsdale special. Cafe La Fortuna is my got-to for coffee. Angela is always so welcoming! Do you have a favorite memory of living in the area? Favorite festival or special event? With two boys, I spend a lot time at various sporting events. Some of my favorite memories of living in Hinsdale are the weekends spent at the park, watching my boys play sports. Followed by a trip with friends to Everyday’s A Sundae for ice cream. If an ad agency asked you to write a commercial for your town, what would you say? A neighbor once told me that they moved to Hinsdale because every house had kids playing in the yard, a basketball hoop and an American flag. I’m not sure if I could describe it any better.

WHEN IN TOWN

Do you wear any outfits or accessories that like too much day to day but is perfect for the city? When we do get out in the city, my style is elevated and classic yet still practical. I always add a spritz of perfume that I found in Paris. What is your favorite walking route? I love to run on the lakefront. Lake Michigan is what truly sets Chicago apart from other cities. What’s in your bag? Phone, keys, lip gloss and sunglasses. I stick to the staples. View that never gets old? Lake Shore Drive. The juxtaposition of the city skyline to the lake never disappoints. Best quick bite or hidden gem? Club Lucky in Bucktown is a perennial favorite. Their classic Italian cuisine and exquisite martinis never disappoint. Le Bouchon is the closest you can get to an authentic French Bistro outside of Paris. Do you have a favorite museum? My mom and I have always enjoyed The Art Institute. We’re looking forward to the new Georgia O’Keeffe exhibit. The architectural boat tour is also a staple for our out-of-town guests. Learning about Chicago’s history through its buildings is fascinating. What is your favorite show or movie set in Chicago? We’ve currently loving the new series The Bear. It’s fun to see some of Chicago’s best restaurants and chefs featured on the show.