Upon KATE HOLLAND and PIM ALLEY’s first collaboration at a Day School Auction, they learned they “could accomplish great things while still having fun and managing their families.” Afterward, they continued their partnership until they arrived at Suite Escape—a membership-based, collaborative workspace for women to recharge, connect, and inspire. “Suite Escape is the gift of prioritizing yourself,” they say. Both women have led successful, career-driven lives (Alley in politics and Holland in law), but it wasn’t until they took a step back from their careers that things really started to click for them. “I’ve learned that taking time to invest in myself and continue my own education makes me a better wife and mother,” Alley says. “This realization was integral in the creation of Suite Escape.” That, and her love of bringing people together for the purpose of inspiring and creating community. Similarly, Holland took time off to stay at home after the birth of her second child. “However, my interest in entrepreneurship, technology, and innovation persisted,” she says. “Suite Escape is representative of that desire to foster growth and innovation through relationships, business, and technology.” It certainly is the “experiences and people you meet along the way that shape and guide you,” as Holland succinctly states. “Whether you call it serendipity, fate, or a higher power, I exist as the person I am today because of the connections, life experiences, and mentorship I have received from others,” she adds. “My partnership with Pim is evidence of this very fact!”

Suite Escape is located inside Gorton Community Center at 400 E. Illinois Road, Suite 218, in Lake Forest. For more information, visit lfsuite-escape.com.