LAKEVIEW — Walking into Vanille Patisserie, 3243 N. Broadway St., it may not look like a venue for children's programming. The decor is modern and clean, with everything in its right place, and over its 16 years in Chicago the French bakery has built up a reputation for itself as one of the best.
But this idea that Vanille isn't a place for kids and families is exactly what the bakery's president and CEO Sophie Evanoff wants Lakeview residents to get out of their heads.
"It's important to me personally that we're part of the community," Evanoff said. "We're here to create memories and build connections and relationships."
Vanille will offer free story time and cookie decorating at 10:30 a.m. every Tuesday. The activities will last for about a half hour and are recommended for toddlers, but all ages are welcome. There is no need to sign up in advance.
The bakery will also offer interactive kids' concerts in collaboration with the Bubbles Academy at 3:30 p.m. on the first and third Wednesdays of every month. These concerts are recommended for infants and toddlers.
“I’ve always loved doing things with kids, so I’m looking forward to it," said Evanoff, who will read the books during story time herself. Tomorrow's selection is Steve Antony's "I'll Wait, Mr. Panda."
"I just wanted parents to know we're family-friendly," Evanoff said. "I want families to create memories and have fun here."
