GIRL POWER

Glencoe native Teri Bracken of BRONTË FALL releases a new album titled “Finishing School.” Brontë Fall is the songwriting pen name of the classically trained multi-instrumentalist Bracken and is inspired by her love of music, literature, and the history of the Brontë sisters. At a time when only men’s opinions were valued, the sisters defied those odds to have their voices heard. On her sophomore album, Bracken lyrically illustrates the struggles that women face every day—the constant pressure to get married (White Dress), the fight against misogyny in business/the music industry (Warrior), and the importance of celebrating aging in a society that urges women to look younger (Six Years). Musically, the six songs on the album find Bracken growing beyond her roots in orchestral music, exploring cross-genre songwriting that spans from Americana to indie-pop. The collection acts as a master class in self-empowerment. Go girl! For more information or to purchase the album, visit brontefall.com.

CLEAN BEAUTY

Developed by Rebecca and Amanda Adams, a North Shore mom and daughter, who are inspired by the beauty of the North Shore and in particular Sheridan Road, MY ALCHEMY SKIN CARE is a Clean Beauty Company with products that are must-haves for your beauty bag. The company ethically sources the finest wild and organic botanicals and chooses only safe ingredients that are certified cruelty-free, vegan, and sustainable. The heart in their logo represents the founders’ love for clients, animals, and the planet. The TRIO includes Wildcrafted Cleanser, Illuminate Serum, and Rose Hydrosol and is designed to be a quick and easy face routine for busy people on the go. The one-minute routine leaves skin feeling clean, hydrated, nourished, moisturized, and glowing. For more information, visit myalchemyskincare.com.

SECRET GARDEN

NEWSWORTHY GARDENS OF THE NORTH SHORE OF CHICAGO illustrates the rich tradition of gardening along the shore of Lake Michigan from Evanston to Lake Bluff, including the beloved towns of Winnetka, Highland Park, and Lake Forest. It offers an insider’s glimpse at the creativity, diversity, and beauty of these spectacular spaces. Featuring 25 private gardens (many published in the book for the first time) and the Chicago Botanic Garden, engaging descriptions based on detailed interviews with the owners, and lush photographs, this stunning visual narrative is a must for Chicago and Midwest residents, as well as garden enthusiasts and professionals worldwide. Documenting gardens is one of the best forms of preservation. All the royalties from the publication will go to the Garden Conservancy to support their mission to preserve outstanding American gardens. For more information or to purchase the book, visit monacellipress.com.