WHIMSY AT WORK

Lake Forest’s newest play studio, Lucy & Lolly’s Whimsy Workshop, blends color, creativity, and connection for curious work.

Emily Roper and Mallory Greubel are two local moms sharing one mission sparked between their six children. Roper, a former finance manager, and Greubel, previously an attorney, traded the boardroom and briefcases for a whimsical world of color, creativity, and sensory play with Lucy & Lolly’s Whimsy Workshop.

Inspired by a Pittsburgh creative play studio founded by Roper’s mother, Lucy & Lolly’s brings that same spirit of imagination to the North Shore.

“My mother founded her play place with so much heart, and I saw firsthand how it became a haven for families and a springboard for children’s imagination,” says Roper. “That magic stayed with me.”

Greubel experienced that same magic of those Pittsburgh visits. “When Emily was at her mother’s studio, colorful and playful images and her giggling children would inevitably come across my phone,” she says. “I told her I wished I could bring my children there, but a quick playdate in Pittsburgh was slightly unrealistic!”

Then it all just clicked. They both got to work building a space in Lake Forest and named the workshop after their daughters.

Lucy & Lolly’s Whimsy Workshop’s mission is to foster creativity, joy, and connection through hands-on art and purposeful play.

“We want children to feel inspired by their surroundings and encouraged to explore their world through unique sensory experiences and mindfully curated art initiatives,” says Greubel. “We go beyond pipe cleaners and watercolors—although you will still find both in our studio!”

Here, creativity isn’t just encouraged, it’s the whole point. “We believe in the power of play, the value of art, and the importance of creating a space where children feel seen, safe, and celebrated,” adds Roper.

And there is truth behind the power of play. “My oldest son was diagnosed with autism and intellectual disabilities,” shares Greubel. “Observing him learn and experience the world through play—especially unstructured and messy play—has been powerful.”

For Roper, being a mom has shown her how much children learn through play. “Watching my kids light up during sensory activities or imaginative games made me realize how vital unstructured, creative experiences are for their development and how much joy they bring.”

Tucked into a cheerful, color-filled space, the duo welcomes families into their whimsy world with themed pop-up classes and special weekend sessions that offer a playful peek into all the workshop has to offer. “It’s the perfect way for new families to dip their toes into the magic,” says Greubel.

In the fall, Lucy & Lolly’s rolls out its first full session-based class lineup. Two signature offerings will anchor the schedule: Playful Picassos, a caregiver-and-me class for children 18 months to three years, and Messy Monets, a vibrant drop-off class for preschoolers ages three to five.

And this is just the beginning. “We plan to expand into offerings for older children, seasonal workshops, birthday parties, and private events as we grow,” teases Roper.

As Roper and Greubel welcome families in the community, they hope everyone feels the joy, imagination, and wonder that brought it all to life.

Lucy & Lolly’s Whimsy Workshop is located at 840 S. Waukegan Road, Suite 111, in Lake Forest, lucyandlollywhimsy.com, @lucyandlollys_whimsyworkshop.