PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN SUBAR
Suzanne Villavicencio Zuaiter of Clarendon Hills is a mother of two, artist, wife, animal advocate, avid cook, and entertainer. She was born in Mexico City, Mexico, later moving to Potomac, Maryland. Today, Zuaiter supports such organizations as Bark From The Heart in La Grange. She is a supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, as well as The Dupage Forest Preserve, The Morton Arboretum, and Katherine Legge Memorial Park, where she can be found with her two Great Danes. Here is how she stays on trend For fall:
Mantra? Expect nothing and appreciate everything.
Best grooming tip? Have a professional do your eyebrows, you wouldn’t believe what a difference they can make.
Guilty pleasures? Le Delice de Bourgogne Triple Cream French Cheese served with fig spread and rosemary Marcona almonds, washed down with a fabulous glass of Turley….and truffle fries with Parmesan cheese… heaven!!!
Favorite foods? A fabulous cheese and charcuterie board, anything Asian, Indian, Middle Eastern and of course authentic Mexican (I usually prefer my homemade versions) food.
Music you love? Classic rock, Reggae, anything by Placido Domingo, Buena Vista Social Club and of course mariachis who make me emotional every single time.
Best advice ever given to you? I have been given great advice along the way, these are ones I have read that have stuck with me. “How people treat you is their karma; how you react is yours”—Wayne Dryer and “When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time”—Maya Angelou.
Best advice you’ve ever given? Don’t give unsolicited advice.
Earliest memory? Playing in the turquoise waters of Cozumel with my brothers when I was very young. I always remember that when I see water as beautiful and clear.
When you wake up? Stretch, drink a glass of water, then strong coffee, and on to cook a good breakfast for my kids before school.
Before bed? Have a nice glass of wine with my husband, then fall asleep trying to catch up on any shows we have missed. Never fails.
What’s on my bookshelf? An array of books on everything from art, architecture, interior design, and medical dictionaries from when I was doing medical interpreting and many other topics in both English and Spanish. I am about to start James A. Michener’s Chesapeake.
You can’t live without? My family, of course, (including my dogs), lip balm, and my coveted Girls’ Night Out!
Love to escape to? If I can’t take a quick trip to Mexico or our place in Florida, I love a nice dinner with my husband or friends or both. Advice to your younger self? Take your studies more seriously and explore all your options.
WHEN IN THE COUNTRY
Your style is? Fairly casual—skinny jeans, a Boho tunic with boots, and fun earrings.
Can’t leave the house without? My wallet, cell phone, and my favorite Ray-Bans.
Transportation? I have to drive a large SUV so I can fit both my Great Danes.
Driving music? I really love Johnny Cash, Pitbull, and anything that gives me energy.
Place to eat? Nabuki is our favorite sushi place; Amber Cafe and Topaz for cute outdoor dining, and Fourteensixteen for both.
Shop? I love flowers so English Garden is amazing. If I am shopping for me, I don’t have one favorite but love popping into Vintage Charm, Shop10, Hollis, Sweet William, and Alixandra Collection/Blue.
Best thing about the country? The beautiful green open spaces, access to so many activities, restaurants, shops … and parking!
Worst thing about the country? Can feel generic with strip malls, lack of energy, and diversity.
The perfect day? Wake up late (my body never allows me to do this!), my husband and I meet friends for a fabulous outdoor brunch with mimosas or Bloody Mary’s and chat for hours, then maybe an impromptu BBQ at our house where we can continue the conversation.
WHEN IN TOWN
Your style is? Classic and tailored, usually monochromatic (black), adding a pop of color and large statement jewelry piece that tends to have an ethnic flair and of course really high heels.
Can’t leave the house without? A clutch with my fully charged cellphone, lip gloss, and a blazer in case I get cold.
Transportation? We really enjoy taking the train into the city and taking an Uber back. Much more relaxing than fighting traffic.
Driving music? Whatever the Uber driver decides to play for us.
Place to eat? Duck Duck Goat, Maple and Ash, Bavettes for a fabulous steak, and The Dawson for a great patio. Three Dots and a Dash for a light bite, crazy smoking cocktails and super fun atmosphere. So many fabulous choices I could go on and on.
Shop? Love the boutiques in Bucktown, Lincoln Park, Oak Street area, and of course Jayson Home. I also love the Restoration Hardware building—it is beautiful.
Best thing about town? The palpable energy, fabulous choice of unique shops, restaurants, the beautiful lake, and all it has to offer.
Worst thing about town? The horrible traffic and constant construction.
The perfect day? A fresh breakfast on a rooftop overlooking the city and lake, then strolling throughout the city. Then perhaps a boat ride then dinner on another rooftop or outdoor cafe.
