Barrington Hills native Meghan Smithe-Clarke moved back to her hometown with her family four years ago and has quickly connected to causes close to her heart. When she’s not working on the Barrington Youth and Family Services Auxiliary Board, she is involved with the Hough Street School PTO or working as a room mom in her son’s first grade classroom at Hough Street School. Here are some of Clarke’s favorites from around country and town

Mantra? A place for everything and everything in its place

Best grooming tip? Although I’m a NARS devotee, I rely on two drug store staples: Covergirl LashBlast mascara and L’Oreal lipstick in Silverstone

Guilty pleasure? Chocolate croissants from Ambrosia

Favorite foods? Vegetarian all the way

Music you love? My husband, JC Clarke, plays DJ when we’re at home, and I appreciate pretty much everything on his playlist, especially Modest Mouse, Beck, and LCD Soundsystem.

Best advice ever given to you?  This piece of advice came to me by way of my mom, and it originated from her grandmother! “Always put on mascara before you leave the house!”

Best advice you’ve given? Regarding minimalism: “Nothing is sacred and clutter is draining. If you don’t use it and it doesn’t bring you joy, get rid of it!”

Earliest memory? Playing Barbie dolls with my sisters in our basement

When you wake up, you …? Drink iced espresso with coconut milk

Before bed, you …? Have a drink with my husband and watch one of our favorite shows

What’s on your bookshelf? I just started this book by Joanna Faber and Julie King: How To Talk So Little Kids Will Listen: A Survival Guide To Life With Children Ages 2-7

You can’t live without? My family, the most important thing in the world to me

Love to escape to?  Mexico—the food, the margaritas, the ocean!

Advice you would give to your younger self? There’s nothing you can’t get through

WHEN IN THE COUNTRY

Your style is? When I’m with my kids, comfort is an absolute must. On work days, I gravitate toward shift dresses or jeans and blazers.

Can’t leave the house without? My youngest son, Jace. He hasn’t started preschool yet, so when I’m home, he’s my constant companion.

Transportation? Walking is my preferred mode, and I couldn’t log the miles I do without my City Mini double stroller.

Driving music? I’m a radio girl and station hop between XRT, B96, Q101, and NPR

Place to eat? Mago, Francesca’s, Barrington Hills Country Club

Shop? I visit Heinens several times a week, and I’m so grateful that such a pleasant grocery shopping experience exists so close to home.

Best thing about country? Barrington schools are fantastic! My husband and I are both products of District 220, and we’re thrilled to be sharing that experience with our children.

Worst thing about country? Mosquitoes

The perfect day is …? A morning walk into town with my kids for doughnuts and coffee. Sunset cocktails on our patio (Usually vodka, soda, fresh grapefruit for me).

WHEN IN THE CITY

Your style is? Definitely a fun dress!

Can’t leave the house without? A small purse with my iPhone, ID, debit card, and lipstick

Transportation? Depends on the event

Driving music? Britney Spears Pandora station for a mix of Beyonce, Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Justin Timberlake, etc.

Place to eat? Hot Chocolate for Brunch, Beatrix for Lunch, Sparrow for LaFloridita cocktails, and Piccolo Sogno for Dinner

Shop? Whenever I’m in the city I always pop into Walter E. Smithe on Clybourn

Best thing about town? Lake Michigan views and the overall walkability of the different neighborhoods

Worst thing about town? The long drive home

The perfect day is …? A walk along the lakefront, a visit to the Museum of Contemporary Art, and finally, a family pizza dinner at Piece in Wicker Park