You know when you look at baby clothes and you’re all awww so cute? Well there’s this cool chick in Chicago doing something that makes you go awww…does that come in my size? Meet the Monica behind super successful children’s brand, Monica + Andy.
I’ve only known Monica for a year or two now but what I’ve gotten to know in this short amount of time is that she’s awesome, she knows what she’s doing (but is super humble about it, which I appreciate) and she’s a smart business woman who’s an inspiration to all lady entrepreneurs, no matter what field you want to get into. She started her brand online, selling the cutest little baby / children’s clothing and accessories and more recently opened a free-standing boutique, known as the guideshop, in Lincoln Park. Curious to who the Andy is behind Monica + Andy? Her brother, Andy Dunn, co-founder and CEO of Bonobos (who also happens to have a store in Lincoln Park, might I add). But it’s not just Monica and her brother who have that entrepreneurial spirit. Ever heard of Interior Define? (the Chicago brand that’s basically redefining how we buy furniture) That’s the brainchild of Monica’s husband, Rob Royer. Now I just can’t wait to see what Bella (Monica’s daughter, pictured here…how adorable is she?!) will end up doing in 20 years. Whatever it is, she’s going to be a BALLER at it.
Want to get inspired and feel like you know Monica Royer (if you don’t already)? Then here it goes…
What do you love most about Chicago?
I was born in the suburbs here and have spent my entire life in and around Chicago. I sometimes can’t imagine living anywhere else (despite the weather last winter that made almost everyone want to leave). My favorite thing about Chicago is that it is such a big city, yet it can feel so small. I can be downtown shopping and at meetings and then in a 5 minute cab ride I can be back in Lincoln Park, heading out on a walk to take my daughter to the zoo. It is an incredible place to raise a child because we are so close to the zoo and the museums and despite all of the people, there is still space to let your kids run around.
Top 3 favorite things to do in the city?
I love cooking (even though I don’t have that much time to do so anymore) so my favorite place to be is the huge Whole Foods in Lincoln Park. It instantly makes me feel relaxed when I walk in and start shopping. The best part is I can eat “out” and still feel like I am eating healthy. My second fave is the Lincoln Park zoo. My daughter and I have tried to walk there as often as we can, despite the weather. The best keep secret there is the boardwalk at Southpond. It is gorgeous any time of year, and in the summer you can stop for an ice cream cone at the shop at the pond on your way out. Every year I also love the architectural boat tour. It is the absolute best way to see the city and it never gets old. From the stories of who built each building and why, to the finale cruise onto the lake to admire the entire skyline, it is such a memorable trip. This year we did an impromptu photo shoot on the boat and it was so much fun.
What’s the most memorable moment in your career so far?
My most memorable moment so far has been the opening of the guideshop. Before that the brand was online and in my head…there were so many moving parts. When I walked through the finished guideshop for the first time it really made it all come to life. It was incredible to be in a place where the whole vision finally came together.
Words of advice for someone trying to get into your field?
My best advice for someone having a store and e-commerce would be that you have to be ready for your job to evolve over time. I started out doing the design work at the beginning (which I still really enjoy) but as a company grows so does your role. It is important to remember what got you into it and what you love doing most may not be what you get to continue to spend your time on. Luckily I have grown to love so many aspects of this position and I am grateful to have such an amazing team to work with.
What’s your favorite piece in the store right now and why?
My favorite item is our organic whale print blanket. It is a centerpiece of many of our “cuddle boxes” and I am obsessed with it! We also just launched our gift concierge (which is a hit with gifters that don’t know what to shop for). You can email us and we will put the gift together for you. So fun!
I’ve always been pretty open here on CCF that kids / babies aren’t really my thing BUT Monica + Andy makes me want to go shopping like crazy for anyone I might know who could possibly be pregnant (which I’ve already done using their gift concierge service Monica mentioned, as I’m still new to this whole what to buy for your pregnant friend thing). And this is not only because the clothes are so damn cute, but because Monica is rad lady-preneur that I’m really glad decided to make things happen in Chicago.
For more, check out Monica + Andy online or visit their store at 2038 N. Halsted in Chicago. If anything, there’s cookies at the counter and they won’t judge if you grab some and you’re over the age of 3.
It is a great place to shop for kids. The store is beautiful and every time I visit there are classes for little kids. Little tykes love it as there is enough space for them to run around and entertain themselves . Of course the clothes are beautiful and love the feel of the fabrics.