Meet-a-Mom, Stephanie Upson!
What’s your favorite family activity in the Hinsdale, Western Springs, La Grange, Clarendon Hills Area?
Christmas is an absolute favorite holiday in our household, so we love Western Springs Winter Wonderland! The festivities, decorations, and everyone coming together to celebrate make it such a special time of the year. Frequenting the Hinsdale pool is at the top of our list every summer, as is the 4th of July parade!
How many children do you have and what are their age(s)?
We had four in four(years), so- James recently turned 16, Erik is 14, Natalie is 12, and Nicholas is 11.
How long have you lived in the Hinsdale/WS/La Grange/CH Area? What made you decide to live here?
We have lived in Western Springs for four years now. My husband and I both are from the east coast, but relocated shortly after we were married to Shanghai, China, and then again to the Southeast. When his work brought us to Illinois, we quickly narrowed down our search to the Western suburbs of Chicago. The moment we arrived in Western Springs, it felt like we had found home. From day one, people made us feel so welcomed, and we just loved the smalltown charm that Western Springs is known for.
Where’s your favorite place to eat and/or shop in the Hinsdale/WS/La Grange/CH Area?
Pizza is a personal favorite, so we rotate regularly between Lucca’s in La Grange, Davanti’s in Western Springs, and Giuliano’s in Hinsdale. Oberweis is also a fun treat for after school events, or on a summer night walk into town. When we’re downtown Chicago our family enjoys going to True Food Kitchen or Tao.
What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I spent my last year of college working at Walt Disney World while taking classes- which was not a thing back then- and almost chose it over my intended career path of teaching.While I ultimately chose to remain in teaching, I learned so much and had such a wonderful experience while there!
Anyone special you’d like to thank for helping you through parenthood?
Our family has always been there for us, even if it meant traveling all the way to China. The kids’ coaches, teachers, and school administrators at our schools here have been so incredibly supportive, especially during our transition here which was in the middle of the school year. We have been so fortunate to have friends and neighbors in the community, who honestly feel like family, and are always there willing to help in any given situation- from unexpected hospital stays to carpools, we couldn’t do it without them. It really does take a village, and we are so grateful for ours!
Are you involved in a business venture, a local organization, a creative endeavor, or in the corporate world? Please share!
Last fall I launched OPA PLATIA, a company that was created to celebrate the special connection that comes with being part of a community. I believe that so much of who we are comes from the communities that we are part of, so finding a way to connect the history, traditions, and qualities that make a community the unique place that it is, is what we strive to do. You can learn more about the meaning behind the name, what OPA PLATIA is about, and find new communities we’re celebrating at www.opaplatia.com.
How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
This community is one that has demonstrated time and time again a commitment to supporting one another during difficult times and sharing in the joy of the good times. I have watched neighbors fix one anothers gutter downspouts, shovel snow for each other, and help return lost items, or children:). In a world that seems to have so much chaos, it’s a constant reminder of what’s important, and it puts a smile on my face everyday. I believe those connections that form such a strong community have inherently made me a better friend and neighbor, and is the reason I created OPA PLATIA as a way to celebrate those connections.
Photo Credit: Jessica Remus Photography
