Country Vs. Town | Aug. 2025
COUNTRY VS. TOWN: ROSITA KRAJA
By Contributor
PHOTOGRAPHY BY IAN MCLEOD
STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA
HAIR AND MAKEUP BY LEANNA ERNEST
Rosita and Sugar in the home Rosita and Ben designed
ROSITA KRAJA grew up in a small, close-knit town in Lithuania, where everyone knew everyone. That sense of community shaped who she is today. From a young age, she was drawn to creative expression—drawing, writing, anything that let her tell a story. She combined that creative spark with a practical mindset and went on to study business and design in college. That mix of vision and structure became the foundation for everything Rosita has pursued since.
After college, she jumped straight into the freight and logistics industry. It was fast-paced and challenging, and she thrived in it. “Work travel became my passport to adventure—exploring Europe, taking cross-country road trips in the U.S., soaking in new cultures and ideas. Each destination added a layer to my perspective and helped me grow into someone who truly embraces change and possibility,” Rosita says.
These days, she is happily grounded in family life with her husband Ben, their two amazing kids, Sophia and Gabe, and their sweet, spirited pet, Sugar. Life is full and busy, packed with the energy of school runs, sports games, family dinners, and community events. Rosita loves being part of a town where people show up for one another. She genuinely values supporting local businesses and staying active in the community, and the beauty of strong roots.
Rosita ties her past to her present by saying, “Looking back, I can see how the journey from a small Lithuanian town to where I am now has shaped me deeply. It’s taught me that while dreams may carry us far, it’s the people and everyday moments that make life meaningful.”
Do you have a mantra? Rosita’s sense of style shines through always: “Grace over perfection.” Life isn’t always tidy, and I’ve learned to embrace both the beautiful and the messy parts. It’s a reminder to be kind to myself—and others—along the way. On your reading stack? I’m currently into Atomic Habits. The way it breaks down habit formation is fascinating. I also keep a novel nearby to unwind. Reading with Sophia is one of my favorite shared rituals—quiet, connected time with just the two of us. What organizations do you support? I’m passionate about youth sports, women’s business networks, and causes focused on mental health and education access. These are the things that strengthen communities and lift people up. What is the area of expertise on which your group chat will seek your advice? Definitely logistics, business strategy, fashion fixes, and travel tips. I love helping people pack smart, style an outfit, or pick their next destination. I’ve always been the “ask her” person in the group.
Any daily rituals that make you feel centered? Morning coffee is sacred. It’s that pause before the day begins; a warm moment just for me to breathe, reset, and get ready for whatever’s ahead. Music you love? Everything from timeless classics to R&B and indie pop. There’s always music playing in our house—sometimes dancey, sometimes mellow, but music always sets the tone for our day. Favorite summer tradition or activity? Grilling in the backyard is our summer rhythm. Add in evening walks, hockey practice, and our annual beach trip, and you’ve got my favorite kind of summer: simple, connected, and joyful. What beauty products are you loving currently? Right now, I’m loving a good vitamin C serum, cream blush for that natural glow, and of course, dry shampoo—because real life doesn’t always allow for a perfect hair day! Where is your favorite place to travel? Lake Michigan is close to my heart—so many peaceful, family-centered memories. And Italy has always been a dream destination. The culture, the food, the pace—it also has my heart.
WHEN IN COUNTRY
What’s your go-to outfit? A crisp white tee, classic jeans, a chic blazer, and boots or sneakers, depending on the day. Always with a great pair of sunglasses. It’s simple, polished, and always me. Is there anything you can’t leave the house without? My phone, lip balm, and a small notebook for jotting down ideas and inspiration throughout the day. Where do they know you by name? Definitely at my favorite coffee spot and the hockey rink—those are my regular haunts, where the sense of community really shines. Have you participated in any local traditions that you’d love more people to know about? Yes! The neighborhood block party and the Hinsdale Christmas Walk are two of my absolute favorites. They bring everyone together and remind me of that same small-town feeling I grew up with. If an ad agency asked you to write a commercial for your town, what would you say? “Hinsdale: where small-town charm meets big-hearted people. A place to plant roots, chase dreams, and be known by name.”
WHEN IN TOWN
Do you wear any outfits or accessories that feel like too much for the school run but are perfect for the city? Absolutely! A statement coat, tailored blazer, or bold handbag might feel extra at drop-off, but in the city, they shine. Chicago has this energy that makes you want to dress up just a little, and I love that. I’ll pair those pieces with sleek boots or polished loafers and feel instantly in sync with the city’s vibe. What’s in your bag? My phone (always), a lipstick for touch-ups, and a charger—because nothing ruins a city day faster than a dead phone. View that never gets old? The view from Navy Pier at golden hour. Lake Michigan shimmering, the skyline stretching wide—it’s the kind of view that makes you fall in love with Chicago all over again. Best quick bite or hidden gem? Tortoise Supper Club is a classy favorite—elegant without being overdone. And The Aviary is pure magic. The cocktails there feel like a performance—I once had a drink arrive inside a smoky glass orb. Almost too pretty to sip (almost). Best beauty or wellness shop or provider? The Peninsula Spa is heaven—pure luxury and quiet. And for a quick wellness boost closer to home, Infusewell Concierge in Hinsdale is my go-to for vitamin infusions that make a noticeable difference. Do you have a favorite museum? The Art Institute of Chicago will always be a classic favorite—those Monet rooms are breathtaking. But I also love the boldness of the Museum of Contemporary Art. It surprises you, makes you feel something, and always sparks conversation. What’s your favorite movie filmed or set in Chicago? The Dark Knight because my husband Ben had his big moment as a prison guard extra! We always laugh and rewind when his scene comes on. It’s our little slice of movie history, even if it’s just two seconds of fame.
