SHORE VS. CITY: OLGA GILMAN

A self-proclaimed spiritual trailblazer, Northbrook’s OLGA GILMAN exudes an infectious zeal for life. Reflecting on her journey, Gilman stands as a mosaic of experiences—undaunted by adversity, deeply rooted in her heritage, and eager for the next chapter of growth and adventure. Born in Ukraine, she lived in Vienna and Rome during her immigration journey to the United States. Since settling in the U.S., she has moved more than a dozen times. Each transition and new horizon deepened her gratitude for her parents’ sacrifices and fueled her appetite for change and personal evolution. Following the completion of her nursing undergraduate studies, Gilman pursued graduate education in dermatology, culminating in a specialized fellowship in aesthetic medicine. A fusion of her passions for art and science led to the creation of her aesthetic clinic, Haevum. Grounded in a lineage of artistic expression, from her grandfather’s brush strokes to her father’s passion for the arts, Gilman infuses her work with a blend of artistry and compassion, empowering others to embrace their unique beauty. In her personal life, Gilman finds solace and joy in the company of her partner of 15 years, Michael, alongside their children, Matthew and Della, and their spirited Miniature Schnauzer, Johnny. Gilman takes a break from life’s adventures to share her city and shore favorites with Sheridan Road.

What’s on the horizon? I’m diving deeper into travel photography. Professionally, Haevum is set to redefine aesthetic dermatology by centering on individuality and self-love. Mantra? Art in every detail, science in every result. It captures the essence of my approach to aesthetic dermatology and life—meticulous, innovative, and always striving for synergy. Best grooming tip? Consistency is key. Guilty pleasure? A dark, witty British comedy that most people would find too dry. Favorite foods? My palate is a testament to my journey— eclectic, curious, and always ready for the next culinary adventure. Music you love? My musical taste ranges from the profound rhythms of shamanic drumming to the lyrical flow of French rap, and the timeless elegance of Vivaldi. Best advice ever given to you? Two pieces of advice hold a special place in my heart. My father taught me the significance of hard work, consistency, and unwavering self-belief in realizing one’s dreams. Meanwhile, my grandfather imparted the wisdom that whatever task I undertook should be regarded as the most important work in the world. Best advice you’ve given? To see oneself through a lens of empathy and understanding. I tell my patients, my children, and remind myself to embrace our stories, our scars, and our strengths as parts of a beautiful, unique whole. Earliest memory? Developing photographs with my father in our makeshift darkroom in Ukraine. Those moments of creation and connection laid the foundation for my lifelong love of art and beauty. When you wake up, you? I take a moment to feel gratitude for my journey from an immigrant child facing an identity crisis to a proud business owner and mother. Before bed, you? After a day of dedicating myself to my patients, I cherish the simplicity of coloring with my daughter and the warmth of my son’s humor. What’s on your bookshelf? A thought-provoking collection that challenges reality and perception, with authors like George Orwell, Kurt Vonnegut, and Haruki Murakami, alongside spiritually enlightening works by David R. Hawkins, Gabor Maté, and Sam Harris. You can’t live without? The unwavering love and support of my family, friends, and patients. Their stories of strength and resilience fuel my passion and purpose daily. Love to escape to? Anywhere my camera takes me. Advice you would give to your younger self? Trust yourself. All the things you feel you must hide now are the ones you will be most proud of later.

ON THE SHORE

Your style is? An extension of my personality— avant-garde and unapologetically me, a far cry from the traditional white lab coat. Can’t leave the house without? My phone (it’s a love/hate relationship) and a protein shake. Transportation? My 17-year-old son. I have a personal chauffeur with a killer sense of humor. Win-win! Driving music? My Spotify playlist is as eclectic as my interests. Current favorites include Masego’s “Prone,” Cameron Grey’s “I Want It All,” MARO’s “We’ve Been Loving In Silence,” Fhin’s “Quand On Arrive En Ville,” and Gilsons’ “Love Love.” Place to eat? Anywhere that dares to innovate and surprise. My favorites are House 406 by Jennifer Eisen and Eryn Cisneros, Longitud315 by Chef Tony Castillo, and NaKorn by Mina Sudsaard and Sam Rattanopas. Shop? Exploring vintage gems for exterior design, art, and fashion pieces is a pleasure for my soul. Some of my favorite places to visit locally are Prairieland Art & Antiques, Heritage Trail Mercantile, and SIGNATURE OF ART (my father owns it, so I get an ‘I love you’ discount). Best thing about the Shore? It’s a place where art and history are treasured, and culture and community are appreciated. Worst thing about the Shore? The occasional underestimation of its cultural depth. The perfect day is? It begins by losing myself in an audiobook, exploring new ideas or untold stories. The day is filled with meaningful conversations with clients and friends. As evening falls, I’m at home with my family, sharing laughs and stories over dinner, savoring the simple yet profound moments that make life beautiful.

IN THE CITY

Your style is? It’s a fusion of daring and modesty, challenging traditional expectations and redefining the narrative of femininity. Transportation? Walking, immersing myself in the city’s energy and pace. Driving music? I’m all about the old-school hits that transport me back to my teenage years. It’s a soundtrack of freedom and nostalgia, from Santana’s soulful guitar riffs to the Fugees’ smooth rhymes, interspersed with Tupac’s powerful verses, No Doubt’s energetic anthems, and Alanis Morissette’s raw emotion. Place to eat? Favorite spots are EL Ideas by Chef Phillip Foss and Moody Tongue by Jared Rouben. Shop? Places that blur the lines between fashion and art, where pieces celebrate self-expression. I love visiting Jayson Home, Salvage One, and Warehouse 55. Best thing about the City? Its relentless pulse and diversity. Worst thing about the City? The pace can be overwhelming, a reminder to find moments of stillness and reflection amidst the hustle. The perfect day is? A solo staycation at The Publishing House Bed and Breakfast, whose owners unknowingly inspired the ethos of Haevum. It’s a sacred time for recharging. My day would start with a leisurely morning, absorbing art and history at a museum. Meal-hopping across the city savoring the rich flavors of uni at Juno, indulging in the innovative dishes at EL Ideas, and sweetening the journey with Chicago- style gelato from Black Dog Gelato. Finally, I’d lose myself in the pages of a captivating book. Before sleep claims me, I’d take a quick peek at Instagram—because what’s life without a little guilty pleasure? It’s all about the balance, after all.