Explore the best of DuPage County! The Illinois Office of Tourism created the Illinois Makers program to celebrate small businesses whose uniquely Illinoisan style and creativity set them apart. The following DuPage County businesses are members of the Illinois Made Makers program. As the Holiday season approaches, consider these Illinois Makers as part of your holiday shopping itinerary.
Noon Whistle Brewing Company, Lombard and Naperville
Growing up, Brewmaster Paul Kreiner and his extended family spent summer vacations in a small town in central Wisconsin where every day at noon the town whistle blew. The sounding of the noon whistle indicted it was time to crack open the first beer of the day. The tradition, of course, was about drinking great beer, but more importantly, creating lasting memories with family and friends. Continuing that tradition and joined by co-founders Mike Condon and Jim Cagle, in 2014, Noon Whistle Brewing in Lombard officially opened its doors. Followed by Noon Whistle Brewing Naperville in 2020, where the majority of their beer is now brewed. Today, the Lombard location is used for smaller brewing batches which allows them to experiment with wild and funky beers and operates as a brewpub serving food options like their notable thin crust pizza.
Brewpoint Coffee, Elmhurst
What started as a search for an espresso machine on craigslist, has developed into over 10 years of community and coffee. Since opening in 2014, Brewpoint Coffee is committed to creating authentic community spaces through their award-winning coffee. Now with three Elmhurst locations, one in the heart of Elmhurst City Centre, this local favorite produces different types of roasts, seasonal blends, decaf, and infused blends. With brewing guides to spread coffee-making knowledge, Brewpoint is also committed to empowering other cafes and people to create their own community spaces. Stop by their Founder's Cafe, or visit Brewpoint Craft for specialty made cocktails and delectable meat and cheese boards.
To read and watch more about Brewpoints' story, check out this link https://www.enjoyillinois.com/plan-your-trip/illinois-made/brewpoint-coffee/.
Happy by Chocolate, Roselle
In 1991, Pam Vieau, owner and resident chocolatier, attended a local class on how to make chocolate. After the class, she made her homemade English Toffee as Christmas gifts for her friends, and the rest is history. Now, this establishment is a family of women (mother, daughter, and grandmother) making exceptional handmade, artisan traditional, and plant-based chocolate and confections. They have been featured on USA Today, People Magazine, and The Food Guy. Aside from their infamous chocolate and toffee, Happy by Chocolate also sells gourmet popcorn and candied nuts, making them a must-stop shop in your Holiday shopping list.
Lynfred Winery, Roselle
What began as “a hobby that got out of hand” led to the opening of Illinois’ first winery, Lynfred Winery, in 1979. Their wine collection has an abundance of reds, whites, sparkling, seasonal wines, etc. A unique item made at the winery is the chocolate covered wine bottles; each bottle has been carefully dipped and coated seven times and is drizzled with white and dark chocolate. Lynfred Winery also has a variety of cheeses, baked breads, and specialty gift items. Go online to shop and send gifts to your friends and loved ones. Don't forget to check out their wines of the month!
Not only did Lynfred Winery make history as the first winery in Illinois, but the property also bears historical significance. In the mid-1970s Lynn and Fred, founders of the winery, purchased the Fenz Home, which was originally settled by Colonel Roselle Hough, after whom the city is named. Today, the cellars, which are more than 18 inches thick, provide the ideal temperature control for aging wines.
Soapy Roads, Lombard
As you step through the quaint wooden door of Soapy Roads, a symphony of fragrances envelops you, transporting you to a place where the possibilities are endless, creativity is encouraged, and self-care is a must. Brooke and Joe Bingaman are the husband and wife team behind this Illinois Made business. They were both independent soap-makers for years before meeting. On their second date, they both brought their own soap-making recipes and techniques and almost instantly found their life's purpose. They developed their proprietary formula that night and created their signature scent, Rose and Clove. That scent, along with many others, is available at their storefront in Downtown Lombard. Soapy Roads also has a "do it yourself" bar for creating custom soaps, candles, natural perfumes, and more.
