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By Contributor
PRODUCED BY KEMMIE RYAN
EDITED BY JANIS MVK AND SHERRY THOMAS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP, BOB & DAWN DAVIS PHOTOGRAPHY & DESIGN, AND MATTY JACOBSEN OF MAGIC DREAMS PRODUCTIONS
STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA
HAIR & MAKEUP BY LEANNA ERNEST, CONSTANTINE JAMES, AND MARGARETA KOMLENAC
EDITORIAL & PRODUCTION ASSISTANT: CHEYANNE LENCIONI
Black dress and camel bomber jacket by alice + olivia from Neiman Marcus
LAUREN BRYNJELSEN, owner of One Life Kitchen in Barrington, lives by the mantra that life’s best memories are made around a table. Splitting her time between Barrington and Sarasota, Florida, she offers clients unforgettable cooking and dining experiences. A social media influencer and blogger, Brynjelsen is also deeply involved in philanthropy, contributing to the Service Club of Chicago and GSH Development Council. When she’s not creating culinary memories, she enjoys family time, playing the piano, and writing.
Most rewarding part of what you do? The most rewarding part of my job is bringing people together over food and wine. It warms my heart to see our guests making time to connect with others. I named my kitchen “One Life” because I truly believe these are the moments we will cherish.
How should women support other women? In business, I support other women by uplifting and celebrating their successes. A genuine compliment, sharing their achievements on social media, or a handwritten note are great ways to celebrate other women.
How do you inspire others? I inspire others not so much in words but more by my actions. I want to inspire and encourage others through kindness, compassion, and integrity.
Best piece of advice for anyone starting out? Know thyself! Understanding yourself will guide your decisions and help you remain authentic. Self-awareness has enabled me to seek assistance in areas I don’t excel and be able to concentrate on my strengths. With self-awareness, I can also better connect with clients, without pretending to be someone I’m not.
Habit you’ve adopted that has had a significant positive change on your daily routine? I enjoy challenging myself with self-imposed boundaries. For example, I set limits on when I use my cell phone and when I eat, practicing intermittent fasting. These boundaries have strengthened my discipline, helping me stay focused on my daily goals and develop good habits.
For more information, visit onelifekitchen.com and follow @onelifekitchen on Instagram.
