Reopened Loverly Cottage Holds Giveaway For Underappreciated Moms

GURNEE, IL — A Highland Park woman who last month re-opened her business in a new location after it was ravaged by fire earlier this year is celebrating "Mother's May" with a giveaway to the most "badass" mom.

One day is simply not enough to recognize amazing mothers, so Loverly Cottage owner Juliet Abielle is taking nominations for a #BadAssMomma to provide a customized piece of furniture. Abielle said she was hoping the contest would make the "grossly underappreciated" mothers feel special.

"You know who you are. The moms who go the extra mile. You may be a single mom or feel like one most days. Ignored on Mother's Day. Devalued and under-appreciated," Abielle said. She said she had been a divorced single mother for most of her daughter's life. "I know the struggle."

Abielle is the daughter and granddaughter of a creative family who taught her how to plant, sew, needlepoint, use power tools and scour antiques. Her business Loverly Cottage, formerly of Lake Bluff, held a grand opening April 27 of its new location at 887 S. Riverside Drive in Gurnee. The new location is a two-story 6,000-square-foot former Triple AAA Tent Masters.

Abielle describes it as a creative gathering place, with workshops, classes, pop-up events and more. It is also a retailer, offering shoppers restored and curated furniture and home goods "with a focus on French Cottage Charm, Vintage Chic and a touch of Farmhouse."

The larger location allows for a larger selection of merchandise to be on stored. In addition to offering pieces handpicked from estate sales, flea markets, thrift stores and fairs, her clients also can bring in their own pieces or heirlooms for a personalized makeover. Loverly Cottage also offers vintage rentals for photography sessions, baby or bridal showers, weddings or other special events.

"This is a place where all are welcome to enter with love," Abielle said, announcing the opening of the new location. "It is everything I have dreamt of, from the classroom, paint room, retail spaces and work areas to the beautiful outdoors, complete with pond (and my new garden guardians) and plenty of space for my visions for growth. It’s a place to support each other and learn new things."

For Loverly Cottage's #BadAssMomma contest, Abielle asked for great moms or those that know them to sing their "own damn praises" and share their stories or have someone describe how incredible they are to be entered in the contest. (Nominate yourself or an incredible mom online.)

Nominations are being accepted through May 24. Starting the week of May 25, the top five stories selected by the Loverly Cottage team will be posted and a social media vote will determine the winner. All five finalists will receive a special gift, and the winner will work with Abielle to receive a customized piece of furniture. Choices include an accent table, chairs, a dresser or a sideboard, and nominees can choose from French Cottage, Farmhouse, Hygge and Shabby Chic as their favorite style.

Earlier: Knollwood Business Heavily Damaged In Early Morning Fire