COUNTRY VS. TOWN: SIMONA GARCIA

SIMONA GARCIA was born and raised in a small town in the beautiful region of Transylvania, Romania. Part of her childhood unfolded under a Communist regime, yet she was fortunate to grow up in a loving family that valued education, resilience, and integrity. She attended some of Romania’s most prestigious educational institutions, leaving home for high school and college, experiences that unknowingly prepared her for a far greater leap later in life: immigrating to the United States.

Simona’s parents instilled values that continue to ground her today: hard work, honesty, and a deep belief that education opens doors. She graduated from Babeș-Bolyai University with a degree in accounting and finance, supported by strong academic achievements and glowing recommendations from professors. Securing a job proved nearly impossible as corruption was widespread in Romania at the time. While disheartening, this moment became a turning point. Instead of giving up, she pivoted and enrolled in medical school, determined to forge a future built on merit.

Shortly thereafter, an unexpected opportunity arose to work in the United States. Simona applied on a whim and was accepted. “I knew little about the work and even less about the country, but I knew one thing with certainty, I was ready to build a life beyond the limits of my circumstances. I boarded a plane for the first time in my life and flew across the world alone, guided by perseverance and hope,” she says.

This determined woman began working at a beautiful Italian boutique and poured everything into proving herself. Simona says, “Over the next 11 years, I rose from salesperson to Midwest District Manager. During that time, I saved diligently and purchased my first condo, an experience that sparked my passion for real estate. While still working full-time, I earned my Realtor license. Today, I am a real estate advisor with @properties/Christie’s International Real Estate, offering local, national, and international reach to my clients. My approach is rooted in a client obsession mindset: actively listening, educating, and guiding buyers and sellers through every step of the process with clarity and care. I am proud to align with a leading real estate firm that shares my commitment to exceptional marketing, sophisticated technology, and the highest standards of service.”

Life’s most meaningful chapters often begin unexpectedly. Simona met her husband, Dennis, at the Lincoln Park Zoo Ball, a charity event that brought together people who shared a passion for community and giving. They married two years later and welcomed a son, Sebastian, two years later. “I left my retail career to focus on motherhood while expanding my real estate practice where the flexibility allowed me to be present for my family while still doing work I loved.”

In 2020, the family moved to Hinsdale, a community that quickly felt like home. They were embraced by kind, generous families and discovered a true sense of belonging, a reminder that compassion and connection create the strongest roots.

“Service is at the core of everything I do and extends far beyond my professional life. I serve on the Board of Managers for the Hinsdale Chapter of the Infant Welfare Society as Co-Chair of the Sponsorship Committee. I am also a member and past President of The Service Club of Chicago and remain actively involved with the Hinsdale Junior Woman’s Club. Giving back has become one of the most fulfilling aspects of my life, an extension of the values that my parents instilled in me and a testament to the belief that compassion is a responsibility as much as it is a gift.”

Outside of work and service, Simona discovered a love for tennis two years ago and now plays in both singles and doubles leagues. It brings her joy, challenge, and yet another opportunity for growth.

“Looking back, my journey from a small Transylvanian town to building a life and community in Hinsdale has been shaped by unwavering perseverance, unshakeable grit, and deep gratitude. Every challenge strengthened me. Every opportunity propelled me forward. And every act of kindness along the way reminded me of the power of community. I am profoundly grateful for where I began, for where I am today, and for the many ways I hope to continue making a difference,” she says.

Do you have a mantra? Rise with purpose. Move with courage. Give with heart. On your reading stack? Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell. What organizations do you support? I serve as Sponsorship Committee Co-Chair for the Hinsdale Chapter of the Infant Welfare Society, a mission that is deeply personal to me. Through our support of the Angel Harvey Family Health Center, more than 14,000 medically underserved children and adults receive compassionate, high-quality care each year—medical, dental, vision, mental health services, and access to an on-site pharmacy, often at no cost. Our signature event, Tablescapes is coming up on March 22nd at Marriott Burr Ridge—a must on your spring calendars for sure. I am also a member and past President of the Service Club of Chicago and continue to serve on the Hinsdale Junior Woman’s Club Associates Committee. Giving back is central to who I am, and I proudly support many organizations that strengthen our community and beyond.

What’s your signature entertaining style? Effortless, welcoming, and warm—where conversation flows easily and everyone feels at home. Coffee or tea? Tea. I love the endless variety of flavors and how perfectly it pairs with small, indulgent nibbles. Country or dance music? Dance. Favorite warmer weather tradition or activity? Playing tennis, gardening, and traveling. What beauty products are you currently loving? Too many to list—but a few favorites include La Prairie, Ducray, Obagi, SkinCeuticals, and RoC. Where is your favorite place to travel? I have many favorites, but two places take my breath away for entirely different reasons. In Norway, nothing compares to cruising through the dramatic fjords of Gudvangen, where towering cliffs and still waters feel almost otherworldly. Italy offers endless beauty. While every region is special, Lake Como’s elegance and Sardinia’s wild, sun-drenched beauty are the ones that truly have my heart.

WHEN IN COUNTRY

What’s your go-to outfit? Jeans and a great top. Is there anything you can’t leave the house without? Sunglasses, lipstick, and—of course—my iPhone. Where do they know you by name? Nabuki and the Oak Brook Tennis Center. Describe your perfect day. I start the morning with quiet moments of stretching, breath, and gratitude, followed by a light workout, a walk through Fullersburg Woods, or a tennis match. The afternoon is spent on meaningful work and connections: helping a real estate client, collaborating with my sponsorship committee, or sharing lunch with my husband or friends. Evenings are for unwinding with family, conversation, and laughter. I end the day reflecting on one thing I’m proud of, grateful for, and excited about.

WHEN IN TOWN

Do you wear anything that feels like “too much” for everyday—but perfect for the city? Absolutely. A dress that can be easily elevated with statement jewelry—perfect for dinner or an evening at the theater. A view that never gets old? The iconic Chicago skyline from the bridge at Lincoln Park Zoo’s South Pond—a breathtaking blend of nature and cityscape. Describe your perfect city day. Lunch at RL Restaurant with friends or clients, a walk through Lincoln Park Zoo and along the lakefront, followed by a play and dinner at one of Chicago’s incredible downtown restaurants. Best quick bite or hidden gem? Le Colonial—and I loved Sprinkles Cupcakes for something sweet before they unexpectedly closed. Do you have a favorite museum? The Art Institute of Chicago. A timeless favorite, always inspiring.