Meet A Mom: Kristine | Libertyville Area Moms

Kristine L. Knutson, How Impressive!, Inc.

 

Where are you from and how long have you lived in town? What brought you to the area?

I grew up in Lake Forest, but have lived in Libertyville for the last 26 years. Prior to having kids I lived in the city, but once they were born we moved here to be closer to family.

 

Do you have child(ren)? Age(s)

Yes. Alison Knutson is 26 years old now and Billy Knutson just turned 24 years old. They both attended St. Joseph’s School through 8th grade and Libertyville High School (Class of 2013 & 2014).   Ali then went off to Iowa State and received a Bachelors Degree in Graphic Design, and Billy went to North Caroline State majoring in Professional Golf Management. They are now both out of the house and fully employed! Whoo, Whoo!

 
 

What are your favorite things to do in the area with and without your kids? Family friendly restaurant? Date night?

I tend to work day and night! I love my job and definitely all of my GREAT customers. When I am not working, I enjoy going to the Jazz brunches at Main Street Social, sitting by the fireplace at Milwaky Trace and sitting alfresco at Firkin in the alley. Mickey Finns and Morgans are fun too. I just LOVE what our community has to offer in so many ways.

Are you involved in a business venture, a local organization, a creative endeavor or in the corporate world? How’d you get involved with it?

I own a small retail store in downtown Libertyville called How Impressive! We do personalized stationery and really unique gifts for that person that has everything. I started out of my dining room, here in Libertyville, when my daughter was in 2nd grade. For her First Communion I hand letter pressed note cards and napkins for 65% of her class. Then people just wanted more and more. I had parties on Thursday nights and people would come over to the house and order custom gifts and even their Christmas Cards. I had one customer come in last fall and bring in ALL 18 Christmas cards we had done for their family! It was so cool to see how their children have grown through the years.

I have volunteered for several local organizations and some that I am still involved with, The Beacon Place – Waukegan, The Lake County Haven, Libertyville Junior Woman’s Club, Libertyville Cares and more!

One of the best part of owning your own business is that no one can stop you from donating and giving back! I’ve donated to every single elementary school here, including Rondout, Oak Grove, St. Joes, and St. Johns. I have also given back to Highland Middle School, LHS and preschools like, Village Green Montessori, Libertyvillle Co-Op and more. I love our town and I am proud to be a part of it! I don’t think Amazon can say that!

 

 

How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?

The MainStreet program we have in Libertyville is just the BEST! They do so much for our stores and restaurants in town. We are so lucky to have them and ALL the activities they offer to our community. I participate and sponsor a wagon at the Farmers Market and when Lunch in the Park took place I was one of the sponsors of the musical performances. I’m looking forward to all those events coming back.

 

What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?

I am an introvert/extrovert. I enjoy social large groups but I’m even better one on one with a girlfriend or a quiet evening at home.

 

 

 

 

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve gotten from another Mom?

Don’t take life so seriously and enjoy every minute with your children when they are little because the years go so fast. Don’t sweat the small stuff! Make time to journal the funny things they say, even as grown up children!

What are your favorite places to travel near and far and why?

One of my favorite trips has been to Ireland. I’ve been there a few times.  I actually won 2 round trip tickets to Dublin as the First Prize winner at the Old St. Pats Largest Block party! I also love heading up North to Minocqua/Eagle River area in the summer and Naples in the winter. I’m fortunate to have friends in both spots.

Which podcasts and/or TED Talks inspire you the most?

I like listening to Simon Sinek and Mel Robbins. They are two inspirational leaders that help people become a better you!

Tell me about your favorite book/s.

I really don’t have time to read, but when I do the last audible I listened to was “The Monk that Sold his Ferrari” by Robin S. Sharma.

Photo Credit: Kate Keegan Schafernak – Libertyville

What is next for you?

We are now celebrating our 15th Holiday Season and I am proud to say we are one of the longest standing retailers in Downtown Libertyville! If you order your Christmas Cards online already, I would love for you to check out our website and support LOCAL while getting your holiday gifts and cards too. My website is just as easy as other on-line options and they are 20% off until Nov. 2, 2020! Please go to www.howimpressive.com and enjoy the savings.

We will also be having smaller holiday parties (max 8 people) starting the week of Oct. 20th. You can go to my website to sign up www.howimpressive.com

So if you have a small book club, neighborhood friends , or a group that you belong to feel free to get together safely just sign up as a group. 847.680.6458.

Please feel free to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for new product updates.

PURCHASES ON MY WEBSITE FROM OCT. 19 – DEC. 15th will receive a 10% discount . Use Coupon CODE: LAM

or come visit us in person – we are OPEN daily

How Impressive, Inc.

Kristine L. Knutson

326 N. Milwaukee Ave.

Libertyville, Illinois 60048

(east side of the street, 2 shops North of Buss Flowers)

 

 

 

 
 
 
 

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