CONTENTS

6 Sycamore Champions Foundation

8 Chamber Welcome

10 Discover Sycamore

12 Automotive

14 Health

16 Dining

18 Community

22 Culture

24 Education

28 Industry

32 Retail

34 Residential

36 Weddings

38 Community Profile

40 Members – Alphabetical

49 Members by Category

63 Advertiser Index

65 Member Search

WELCOME

Welcome to Sycamore — a community rooted in tradition, connection, and opportunity.

Whether you’re here for a day, a weekend, or a lifetime, we believe you’ll discover a place that is friendly, inviting, and full of possibility.

As our nation celebrates the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America, we are reminded of the deep pride and enduring spirit that define communities like ours. That pride is beautifully reflected in the historic photographs featured on our cover and above. A glimpse into a Fourth of July celebrations in Sycamore from generations past. Both photographs capture more than a moment in time; they tell the story of a community that has long embraced patriotism, togetherness, and tradition.

The Sycamore Chamber of Commerce is proud to play a key role in shaping our community’s future while honoring its rich past. With the support of our members, board of directors, dedicated staff, and countless volunteers, we listen, collaborate, and respond to the needs of our businesses and residents. Together, we are building a thriving local economy where innovation, growth, and civic pride continue to flourish.

We are inspired every day by our local businesses, nonprofits, and residents who pour their time, talent, and passion into making Sycamore a wonderful place to live, work, and celebrate life.

As advocates for business and champions of economic progress, the Sycamore Chamber fosters meaningful partnerships with our schools, park district, city, county, state agencies, and private industry. These collaborations strengthen community development, spark new opportunities, and help ensure Sycamore’s success for generations to come.

We invite you to “Shop Sycamore Chamber” when choosing services, retail, or dining options. This guide serves as your go-to resource for all our community has to offer, and you can explore even more through our online directory at SycamoreChamber.com.

Thank you for choosing Sycamore. We are proud of where we’ve been, excited for where we’re going, and honored to welcome you to be part of it.

RoseMarie M. Treml
CEO
Sycamore Chamber of Commerce

Driven by Experience, Fueled by Care
Think Driven Auto Repair

By Matt Beardmore

With a combination of technical expertise and a genuine, customer-first approach, Think Driven has become a trusted name in Sycamore.

Open since October 2012, Think Driven is owned and operated by Master ASE Certified technician Sean Kellett, whose interest in how things work dates back to his childhood in Hanover Park.

“From putting together model cars to repairing my bike, I was drawn to (the) auto shop at Glenbard North High School,” Kellett said.

Kellett found encouragement from his shop teacher and received a Ford Asset scholarship for Automotive Technology while still in high school. This opportunity launched his professional career, which began with 15 years working as a technician for two local Ford dealerships and a year at a Ford dealership in Arizona. “I was really happy talking to customers and explaining what was necessary to repair and maintain their vehicles,” Kellett said. “It was a natural dream of wanting to open and run my very own repair shop.”

After running a successful auto repair shop with a partner in St. Charles for six years, Kellett “took his knowledge and experience one step further” and opened Think Driven with his wife, Dianne.

Think Driven is a “one-stop shop for auto repairs and small engine repairs of all kinds,” as customers go there for everything from oil changes, tire rotations, and brake repairs to issues related to their car’s electrical systems, engines, and suspensions.

Kellett’s three decades of experience working on all makes and models of vehicles, coupled with his deep knowledge of emerging technologies and recalling common concerns that plague certain makes and models, allows him to fully service customers’ vehicles.

“Customers appreciate when you share that knowledge and provide thorough explanations,” Kellett said. “That’s how trusted relationships are developed.”

Think Driven is “more than just a repair shop,” Kellett said. The team there – which includes his wife, who helps with administrative duties, four technicians, a customer service representative, and a shop helper – view themselves as their customers’ trusted partners, helping them maintain their vehicles’ performance and safety.

“We are honest with our customers,” Kellett said. “I think people can tell that we are genuine and care, that we are knowledgeable with vehicles, which instills their confidence in us, and that we are patient, which lets them feel comfortable asking questions or getting the explanation of repairs or concerns.”

Kellett said his goal is to expand Think Driven’s service team with even more passionate, honest, and eager-to-learn technicians.

Brian Bemis Toyota
(815) 748-7300 | dekalbtoyota.com

DeKalb Sycamore Chevrolet GMC
(815) 756-6351 | dekalbmotors.com

Jiffy Lube
(815) 895-5853 | jiffylube.com/locations/il/sycamore/4001

Think Driven
(815) 895-0055 | thinkdriveninc.com

For additional Automotive listings, see our Member Directory.

Smiles for Every Stage of Life

By Matt Beardmore

From a child’s first dental visit to orthodontic treatment for teens and adults, Sycamore Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry is a family-centered specialty practice dedicated to caring
for patients at every stage of life.

The practice has been serving the community since 1988 when the orthodontic office was founded by Dr. Todd Curtis. In 2020, Dr. Peter Barysenka assumed ownership when Dr. Curtis retired. The following year, the practice expanded to include pediatric dentistry with the addition of Dr. Sarah Barysenka.

“What truly sets our practice apart is that we are the first – and only – pediatric dental practice in DeKalb County, offering specialized pediatric dentistry alongside comprehensive orthodontic care all in one location,” said Dr. Peter Barysenka. “This allows families in Sycamore and surrounding communities to receive seamless, coordinated care for every stage of their child’s dental and orthodontic development in a single, family-owned office they can trust.”

Sycamore Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry offers preventive and restorative pediatric dental care for infants, children, and teens, early orthodontic evaluations, braces and clear aligners, and interceptive treatments tailored to each patient’s needs. Orthodontic care is offered for all ages, including adults. The practice also places a strong emphasis on education, comfort, and helping kids feel confident at the dentist while giving parents peace of mind.

“At our core, we strive to create a positive, fun, and supportive environment where healthy habits begin early and smiles are built to last,” said Dr. Sarah Barysenka.

The team is also focused on making every experience feel personal, supportive, and stress-free, whether that is scheduling the patient’s visit with clarity and ease, navigating insurance verification, or thoroughly explaining treatment planning.

“We are intentionally trained to go above and beyond, holding ourselves to a consistently high standard of care and service,” said Dr. Peter Barysenka. “Creating a welcoming, positive environment isn’t just a goal, it’s part of who we are.”

As is the practice’s commitment to the community. Sycamore Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry is proud to support a wide range of local initiatives, including youth sports sponsorships, Girls on the Run, the CASA Color Run, Spartan TV, Sycamore Pumpkin Fest, and Meals on Wheels.

“In addition, we love celebrating and thanking the families who trust us with their care through patient appreciation events,” said Dr. Sarah Barysenka. “These include favorites like a summer pool party and renting out the Sycamore State Theater for a free family movie event. Giving back and staying connected to our patients and the broader community is a core part of our mission, and we’re excited to continue expanding these partnerships and traditions in the years ahead.”

Along with deepening its community partnerships, Sycamore Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry is focused on expanding access to orthodontic and pediatric dental services, enhancing the patient experience through ongoing team training and technology investments, and continuing to refine systems that make care more efficient and comfortable for families.

Grand Dental Sycamore
(815) 895-4571 | granddentalsycamore.com

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons for Northern Illinois, S.C.
(815) 895-3000 | omfs4ni.com

Sycamore Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry
(815) 895-7660 | sycamoreorthopedo.com

For additional Health listings, see our Member Directory.

Two Temptations, One Town

By Lynn Morley

Savory appetizers and decadent sweets are what cravings are made of, and Sycamore’s dining scene delivers on both. PJ’s Courthouse Tavern and The Treehouse Pie Company each lean into those indulgent moments, offering dishes that don’t require a full meal to make an impression.

PJ’s Courthouse Tavern is owned by two born-and-raised Sycamore men – Jeff Schwartz and Ben Carlson. Their tavern proudly boasts 23 different appetizers, which they call Opening Statements, most of which are made from scratch. Co-owner Ben Carlson says the tavern is especially known for the Specialty Onion Straws; Buffalo, spinach-artichoke, and jalapeño corn dips; and Jumbo Wings.

“Our homemade onion straws are sliced super thin and then battered in yogurt and our seasoned flour, which creates a mound of perfectly fried onions,” Carlson says, noting that they are the topic of many restaurant reviews. And he says the Jumbo Wings sauced in honey mustard, hot, extra hot, barbecue, trifecta, teriyaki, sweet chili, or bourbon sriracha are the best in the county.

“The trifecta sauce is the most popular,” according to Carlson, who describes it as a mix of hot, barbecue, and honey mustard sauces. “It was created by a former cook who loved any and every condiment. They’re an often-requested choice during Monday night Wingo ($1 wings and bingo), which is one of our most popular nights.”

Other stand-out Opening Statements include Supreme Court Nachos, Spicy House Battered Pickle Chips, Soft Pretzel Nuggets, and seasonal specialties such as the Cajun Potato Salad.

PJ’s is a proud supporter of the Sycamore community and member of the Chamber of Commerce. Stop in frequently for the many events they host every month.

The Treehouse Pie Company offers soups, sides and beverages, but you simply must have the pie. Baked fresh daily, the rotating menu offerings make this pie company a go-to favorite for residents of Sycamore and the surrounding areas.

Owner Christy Sharp started out selling pies at the Sycamore Farmer’s Market, at pop-up events, and through catering, continuously growing the concept through feedback from the community.

The pies take three days to create. Each pie crust style has its own cut and shape of butter that creates the texture. Once the dough is mixed, it sets overnight before it can be rolled out and shaped.

The pie company employs staff who are classically trained in the culinary and pastry arts. “Our fillings are based on vintage recipes and techniques from the early 1900’s but with modern flavor combinations and quality ingredients, such as single-origin chocolates,” Sharp says.

Sharp is grateful for all of the support she has received from Sycamore residents and the Chamber of Commerce. “Because of our community, I now have a pie kitchen with (a) seating area,” Sharp says. But that’s not all. In addition to the distinctive menu offerings, the pie company has one unique feature you must see – a window to the bake shop where patrons can watch the bakers work their magic.

“It’s all part of the dedication to creating personal experiences for everyone,” Sharp says, “because we think that life is just better
with pie.”

MVP Sports Bar
(815) 895-1888 | mvpsportsbar.com

PJ’s Courthouse Tavern
(815) 895-9253 | pjscourthouse.com

The Dirty Bird 815
(815) 991-5877 | thedirtybird815.com

The Treehouse Pie Company
(779) 367-0126 | thetreehousepieco.com

For additional Dining listings, see our Member Directory.

Cultivating the Future of Agriculture in DeKalb County

By Matt Beardmore

The DeKalb County Farm Bureau has been working to strengthen farming and the broader local economy for more than a century. DeKalb County Farm Bureau President Berkeley Boehne feels that the organization will continue to be the “voice of agriculture” in the community for many years to come if it adapts and remains committed to agriculture and the social and economic interests of people engaged in the production of agriculture products.

“The DeKalb County Farm Bureau has been here 114 years. For the next 100 years, leadership will have to learn to adapt just like our forefathers had to,” Boehne said. “If we continue to educate our youth and keep the goals and mission a priority, we will be here for another 100 years.”

While DeKalb County possesses some of the best soil in the world, supporting the growth of agritourism and specialty agriculture, which includes apple orchards, vineyards, breweries, and local farm produce, is one of the organization’s priorities.

“These small businesses also support us as well with ag education when called upon,” Boehne said.

Education remains a key focus for the DeKalb County Farm Bureau, which currently has 3,000 members. For example, the Ag in the Classroom outreach program sends volunteers throughout the entire county to teach elementary students about agriculture. In addition to having one of the best Ag Literacy Programs in the state, the DeKalb County Farm Bureau participates in a regional campaign called “Food for Thought,” which helps educate its urban neighbors to the east about “local food, family farms and other ag topics every year.”

“Education never ends,” Boehne said. “Every year we try to provide a face for agriculture to someone who has little or no connection to farming.”

Looking forward, the Farm Bureau will add to its ag education efforts with the creation of a new on-site pollinator plot with walking paths that will be open to the public.

With strong partnerships, a commitment to education, and active advocacy, the DeKalb County Farm Bureau continues to play a vital role in supporting agriculture and improving the quality of life for the entire community.

More information about the DeKalb County Farm Bureau can be found at https://dekalbfarmbureau.org.

DeKalb County Community Foundation
(815) 748-5383 | dekalbccf.org

DeKalb County Farm Bureau
(815) 756-6361 | dekalbfarmbureau.org

DeKalb County History Center
(815) 895-5762 | dekalbcountyhistory.org

For additional Community listings, see our Member Directory.

Traditions That Shape Us

By Lynn Morley

Throughout the year, Sycamore residents can enjoy a number of memorable Community Events, including Taste of Spring (wine walk), Witches Night Out, Moonlight Magic and Winter Chocolate Walk.

Especially popular is the Sycamore Pumpkin Festival – a core annual tradition and Sycamore’s biggest city-wide event. The festival that typically takes place in October isn’t just a beloved family tradition; it’s a community celebration showcasing our local not-for-profit organizations.

Pumpkin Fest, as it’s fondly named, takes place near the corner of Main and State Streets, with much of the festivities happening on the courthouse lawn and surrounding town square. It always starts on a Wednesday with the opening ceremony and cake-cutting, and it concludes Sunday afternoon with a parade.

The festival features two carnivals, three indoor craft shows, more than 1,000 entries in the Lions Club Decorated Pumpkin Display, vendor booths, live entertainment and activities, and of course the 90-minute parade.

Every year, the festival unites more than 30 DeKalb County not-for-profit organizations to participate in fundraising activities, community education and enrichment. “Some of these not-for-profits raise over $10,000 for their cause during the festival,” says Pumpkin Fest committee president Cole Regnery. “For some, it is their biggest fundraising opportunity of the year.” These funds promote the general cultural welfare of the community and even provide scholarships for local students.

“I have been told that for downtown businesses, the pumpkin festival can be the busiest weekend of the year,” Regnery says, noting that the Sycamore Chamber of Commerce participates as one of the member organizations. “Pumpkin Fest provides immeasurable value to local businesses by ensuring Sycamore remains a healthy and desirable community.”

The festival also strengthens cultural bonds between the residents and the volunteers from the various civic organizations, church groups and youth groups. “The spirit of friendship that fills Sycamore during the Pumpkin Festival is palpable and nothing short of magic,” Regnery says. “I know that many residents carry positive memories from past festivals with them throughout the year and look forward to making new ones every October, and I hope that residents and visitors leave the festival with a sense of belonging and desire to cultivate bonds in their local community.”

For more information on this year’s Pumpkin Fest festivities, visit sycamorepumpkinfestival.com.

Discover Sycamore
(815) 895-3456 | discoversycamore.com

Sycamore Pumpkin Festival
sycamorepumpkinfestival.com

Sycamore Steam Show
(847) 464-4053 | sycamoresteamshow.com

For additional Culture listings, see our Member Directory.

Creativity Meets Career Readiness

By Lynn Morley

Sycamore Middle School is a leader in creative education, offering a variety of Career Technology Education (CTE) and STEAM classes to grades 6-8. These CTE and Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math courses offer a hands-on approach to learning and early exposure, which are proving key to developing crucial skills such as problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking.

The CTE/STEAM program is a department within the middle school that consists of required courses for sixth and seventh graders and choice-based electives for eighth graders. Students experience hands-on learning in situations that mimic real-world environments within the fabrication and innovation lab, production studios, and professional kitchen. Collaboration, brainstorming, independent work, group projects and tangible results all happen in a safe, supervised environment.

“The allied arts classes offer tons of chances to be creative and learn real-life skills,” says Sycamore Middle School eighth grader Allison Vavra. “From building projects in STEAM Engineering and hands-on classes to creating media projects with Mrs. Anderson, these classes are fun, interactive and always challenging. No matter what I do next, my classes have helped me become a more creative thinker and a better problem-solver.”

The program consists of nine 9-week courses that have evolved over the past 7 years in response to the interests and needs of the students. “If you put kids in situations where there is a strong interest, you’re going to drive creativity, and I think that is what sets us apart,” says CTE/STEAM Teacher and Department Chair Kevin Boltz, who facilitates and creates the curriculum.

Boltz says the success of the program relies heavily on support from faculty, administration, the community, and of course, his department. “The curriculum is put into practice by a team integral to the program,” says Boltz. “Jill Anderson oversees video production; Lillian Andrew oversees business, technology, and graphic design; Ryan McDonald oversees engineering and design; and Kara Poynter oversees culinary arts.”

Grant funding provides students with access to cutting-edge technology such as laser cutters and 3D printers, and guest speaking engagements from business professionals in and around Sycamore offer real-world insight into possible career paths.

One of Boltz’s goals for the CTE/STEAM program is to create a learner profile for each student, similar to a portfolio, that showcases their strengths, interests and projects throughout their time at the middle school. “This experience shapes who they are,” Boltz says. “Middle school is a whirlwind of changes. I think the best thing we can do for their future success is offer hands-on exposure, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving.”

ACS Sycamore
(815) 895-8522 | acs-sycamore.org

Kishwaukee Education Consortium
(815) 285-2000 | kecprograms.com

St. Mary’s School Sycamore
(815) 895-3275 | stmarysycamore.com

Sycamore Community School District 427
(815) 899-8100 | syc427.org

For additional Education listings, see our Member Directory.

Locally Built, Globally Seen

By Lynn Morley

Whether you know the name, you most certainly know the products produced by two Sycamore international businesses operating right in our backyards.

Tate & Lyle Solutions USA at 1631 S. Prairie Drive is an ingredient supply business that works behind the scenes to transform some of your favorite foods and beverages with better-for-you ingredients, without sacrificing taste or texture. And that can of spray paint in your garage? That is the brainchild of Ed Seymour, founder of Seymour of Sycamore LLC at 917 Crosby Avenue, who invented and perfected the aerosol sprayer.

Tate & Lyle

Tate & Lyle’s team in Sycamore blends custom ingredient formulations to help manufacturers reduce calories, sugar and fat in their products, or add fiber and protein, to help improve the diets of people all over the Americas.

Plant Manager Kyle Bonnell acknowledges that Tate & Lyle is not a name people recognize. “When I meet people out in the community, I get a chance to let them know what Tate & Lyle does. We make tasty food healthier and healthy food tastier. Our ingredients are in many well-known brands found in Sycamore’s grocery stores,” he says.

Tate & Lyle provides nearly 100 jobs to Sycamore and the surrounding communities. The company is also committed to caring for our planet and building thriving communities. “The Sycamore team volunteers time, supplies and funding to the Northern Illinois Food Bank, Tails Humane Society, Safe Passage, Red Cross blood drives, and other local causes,” Bonnell says.

Seymour Paint

Seymour of Sycamore (commonly known as Seymour Paint) is the largest family-owned and privately held aerosol paint manufacturer in the United States. The products are engineered, tested and manufactured in Sycamore to serve customers across North America and internationally.

Chief Marketing Officer Rodion Galperin says the company’s institutional knowledge lives here in Sycamore. “Our Sycamore-based team touches every product that goes out the door. Many of our employees have decades of hands-on experience, and that pride in craftsmanship shows up in the quality of what we ship globally.”

Like Tate & Lyle, Seymour is also deeply invested in the Sycamore community. “We are proud to be a long-standing local employer and manufacturer, and we see global growth as something that strengthens Sycamore, not pulls us away from it. As we expand into new markets and industries, our commitment to American-made quality and local jobs remains unchanged.”

Ideal Industries, Inc.
(815) 895-5181 | idealindustries.com

Tate & Lyle Solutions USA
(815) 895-6300 | tateandlyle.com

The Suter Company, Inc.
(815) 895-9186 | suterco.com

Seymour of Sycamore, Inc.
(815) 895-9101 | seymourpaint.com

For additional Industry listings, see our Member Directory.

The Heart of State

By Lynn Morley

Sycamore’s historic downtown district is more than a collection of storefronts; it’s a place where businesses connect, customers linger, and community life unfolds. For three local businesses, choosing a downtown location has meant built-in foot traffic and the chance to be part of something larger than their individual businesses.

Shari Malm, owner of the Christian retailer Christian Connection knew that downtown was the ideal location for her and never considered anywhere else. Her shop has been at 337 W. State St. for 18 years.

When Kellie Erwin decided to open her first boutique, she said the only place she would consider was downtown Sycamore. Erwin owns children’s boutique Adventure Sprouts on 235 W. State St. and women’s boutique Atlas Roots Collective at 330 W. State St., opening September 2024 and August 2025 respectively.

“Downtown is known for its foot traffic and its sense of community,” Malm says. “We get a lot of customers from out of town, so having a location where they can spend the day shopping and eating is a huge plus!”

Chamber-hosted events held in the heart of downtown turn streets and sidewalks into gathering places that spark new relationships and repeat visits.

“They are great family-oriented community events,” Malm says, “and they allow people to see what our store and the downtown has to offer. These events always make me feel like I’ve stepped into a Hallmark movie.”

Erwin feels the same way. “Downtown comes alive those nights, and to any outsider it’s a Hallmark movie,” she echoes. For her and others, every Chamber of Commerce event is a social event, and she takes the opportunity to catch up with her customers and meet new people.

Aside from their location and love for their community, these three businesses have something else in common – they cater to a particular market. Community events drive traffic into the downtown shops and restaurants, which means exposure to potential new clientele.

“Even if people don’t make a purchase the night of the event, they learn about who we are,” Malm says. “Many will revisit the store to make purchases the following day or within the week.”

Downtown businesses forge relationships with each other both during and outside of community events. The events offer Erwin a chance to sneak away and see what the other businesses are doing and get to know the owners and staff.

“It’s important to me that we all succeed,” Erwin says. “I look forward to contributing to the growth of Sycamore as a whole. I want to be able to give back to the community as much as possible, and being a Chamber member is a gateway into opening those doors and creating lifelong connections.”

“Sycamore has always had a nostalgic and historical downtown,” Malm says, “and we enjoy being a part of that charm, and being a blessing to our community.”

Adventure Sprouts
(779) 222-2399 | adventuresprouts.com

Atlas Roots Collective
Find us on Facebook!

Christian Connection
(815) 899-3262 | christianconnection.biz

For additional Retail listings, see our Member Directory.

Remodel or Move? Sycamore Homeowners Weigh Their Options in 2026

By Matt Beardmore

Remodel or move? While that can be a difficult question for homeowners to answer, as lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals are among the many considerations, local experts are finding that Sycamore homeowners are benefitting from both options.

Cassandra Smrz, who oversees daily operations, manages the office, and handles estimating and project management at Sycamore-based Studio MWR | Midwest Remodel & Co., said that many residents are choosing to renovate their homes instead of relocating.

“We’re seeing homeowners place a strong emphasis on livability and long-term comfort,” said Smrz, part owner of Studio MWR and Midwest Remodel, both of which are family owned and operated. “We’re also seeing an increase in whole-home updates and phased remodels, allowing homeowners to improve older homes while staying rooted in the Sycamore community.”

Midwest Remodel manages the construction side of projects from start to finish, and along with Studio MWR, its design studio and showroom, the teams are able to provide a turnkey remodeling experience for kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and whole-home renovations.

For those ready to make a move, Alison Rosenow, managing broker and owner of American Realty, said the Sycamore market continues to feel steady and balanced in 2026.

“Inventory remains relatively tight – especially for well-maintained, correctly priced homes – which continues to support home values,” she said. “Buyers are more strategic and thoughtful in their decision-making, while sellers who price appropriately and present their homes well are still seeing strong interest.”

As a locally owned, full-service real estate brokerage, American Realty supports buyers, sellers, and investors across residential, commercial, land, farm, and small business transactions, providing guidance supported by decades of community knowledge.

Smrz and Rosenow both agree that no matter whether you are remodeling or packing up and moving, communication, planning, and working with trusted professionals can make all the difference.

American Realty
(815) 762-5226 | alisonrosenow.americanrealtyil.com

Hometown Realty Group
(815) 991-9293 | Hrgsells.com

Studio MWR | Midwest Remodel & Co.
(815) 895-6185 | midwestremodel.net

Willow Real Estate
(800) 895-3955 | willowre.com

For additional Residential listings, see our Member Directory.

Where Love Meets Local: Sycamore Businesses Bringing Weddings to Life

By Matt Beardmore

From long-standing family businesses to newer creative ventures, Sycamore’s local wedding professionals are proud to serve couples on their biggest day. No matter how long they’ve been in business, their success is directly related to developing trust and connections within the community.

At D&D Jewelers, owner Dawn Sukach has been serving the community for more than 25 years. Once an employee at Coopers Jewelry, Sukach and her husband, Don, purchased the store from the Cooper family in 2000. Over the last quarter of a century, Dawn and Don have put their own mark on the business and have helped D&D Jewelers evolve and change with trends – including the recent growth of lab-created versus natural mined diamonds – all while working toward their specialty of custom design.

“Long-standing, family-owned businesses still matter in the wedding industry because buying jewelry is all about trust,” Dawn Sukach said. “We are an active part of the community, volunteering our time to support local charities. We are part of the community and want it to succeed. It’s personal for us. We are going to see you out grocery shopping, at school with our children, at sports games, church. You aren’t just a number to us.”

That has been the same approach taken by Mehgan Christie Taylor since she started Bold Wanderlust Photography in 2022.

“What truly inspired me to start Bold Wanderlust Photography was the connections,” Taylor said. “It’s impossible not to form meaningful relationships when you’re invited into such an important chapter of someone’s life. I get to help preserve such amazing memories … almost like creating a photo time capsule. Knowing that my work allows people to relive their emotions, their people, and their story is what fuels me every single day.”

Like many newer businesses, Bold Wanderlust Photography has experienced some bumps along the way, but Taylor embraces the journey. “If there were a fast track, you’d miss the lessons, the growth, and the joy that comes with learning about wedding photography,” she said.

Together, these businesses demonstrate how experience, trusted relationships, and a forward-looking approach ensure Sycamore weddings are receiving the care and attention they deserve.

Bold Wanderlust Photography LLC
(630) 310-6336 | mehganchristiephotography.com

Chapel in the Pines Wedding & Banquet Center
(815) 895-4797 | chapelinthepines.com

D&D Jewelers
(815) 895-3377 | ddjewelers.com

For additional Wedding listings, see our Member Directory.

COMMUNITY PROFILE

Sycamore is approximately 20 miles southeast of Rockford and 58 miles west of Chicago, which places it in proximity to major markets, while offering a lifestyle removed from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The east branch of the Kishwaukee River, formerly the Sycamore River, winds through Sycamore. The area is crisscrossed by numerous local thoroughfares and several major highways, including Illinois Routes 23, 38 and 64. Convenient access to three interstate highways is provided as well: Interstate 88 (five miles), Interstate 39 (15 miles) and Interstate 90 (30 miles). Although these highways weave in and around the community, the city doesn’t see a high volume of traffic, resulting in an ease of travel without the congestion that plagues many suburban cities.

Combined with Kishwaukee Community College and Northern Illinois University within DeKalb County, the county offers a diverse workforce.

POPULATION

Sycamore | 19,041

DEKALB County | 102,009

Median Resident Age | 37.6

Sycamore Labor Force | 84.6%

HOUSEHOLD

Average household size | 2.49

MEDIAN
household income

Sycamore | $80,837

Illinois | $84,210

Median Home Value | $390,000

Homeownership Rate | 71%

Average Property Tax Bill | $5,745

COST OF LIVING

Cost of living indices are based on a U.S. average of 100.

CLIMATE

AVERAGE SUMMER HIGH: July
Average Temp | 82˚F

AVERAGE WINTER LOW: January
Average Temp | 15˚F

ANNUAL RainfALL AVErAGE | 39.2 inches

U.S. Annual RAINFALL AVErAGE | 36.1 inches

Annual SnowFALL AVErAGE | 21.8 inches

U.S. Annual SNOWFALL AVErAGE | 27.8 inches

On average, 95 CLEAR DAYS in SYCAMORE, 103 in the U.S.

CRIME

Violent Crime

Sycamore | 42.7 U.S. | 289.2

Property Crime

Sycamore | 1,009.7 U.S. | 1,715.2

SYCAMORE COMMUNITY UNIT SCHOOL DISTRICT 427

7 Schools (5 Elementary, 1 Middle, 1 High School):
Total Enrollment | 3,655

sHS graduation rate

Sycamore | 95.1%

Illinois | 89%

Early college coursework

448 STUDENTS ENROLLED
(38% of students enrolled at SHS)

Percent of students enrolling in college within 16 months of graduation

Sycamore | 71.2%

Illinois | 66.8%

SYCAMORE

Overall | 88.3

Grocery | 98.7

Housing | 73.7

Utilities | 99.1

TRANSPORTATION | 83.3

ILLINOIS

Overall | 95.9

Grocery | 98.6

Housing | 84.1

Utilities | 99.1

TRANSPORTATION | 103.5

Advertiser Index

102.3 The Coyote and SuperHits 93.5 39

ACS Sycamore 25

American Realty—Alison Rosenow 13

American Title Guaranty 9

Angel Medical Management Services LLC 21

Blackhawk Moving & Storage 30

Blain’s Farm & Fleet of Sycamore 39

Blumen Gardens 33

Bulmer Consulting LLC 33

C & R Roof Restoration LLC 11

Colonial House Apartments 26

Culver’s 21

Curran Contracting Company 35

DeKalb Mechanical 5

Emerald Cove Counseling 35

First State Bank 5

Floor to Ceiling 39

Gehrke Construction, Inc. 30

Grand Dental Sycamore 15

Grand Victorian of Sycamore 21

Hauser-Ross Eye Institute 40

Hometown Realty Group 29

Hy-Vee 33

Ideal Industries, Inc. Inside Front Cover

John L. Castle Builders, LLC 29

Kishwaukee College 24

Kishwaukee Education Consortium Back Cover

Klein, Stoddard, Buck & Lewis, LLC 9

Le Print Express 27

Lennar 31

Lifescape AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP 39

Lovetts Towing 13

Made Just For You Gifts, Inc. 40

Medical Outsourcing Solutions, Inc. 15

Merry Maids 27

The Music Connection, LLC 29

Nick Hanson Comparion Insurance 20

Oak Crest DeKalb Area Retirement Center 29

Olson Funeral & Cremation Services, Ltd. Quiram Chapels 9

Opportunity House, Inc. 27

OSF OnCall Urgent Care 26

Pest Control Consultants 27

Pitstick & Associates 9

PJ’s Courthouse Tavern 16

Rapid Rinse Car Wash 31

Resource Bank 9

Responsive Roofing, LLC 35

Rochelle Community Hospital 15

Rosati’s Pizza 3

Senator Dave Syverson/Rep. Jeff Keicher 20

Sharp Architects Inc. 10

Smith-Dahlquist, Inc. 13

St. John Lutheran Church 29

Stateline Solar 30

Stran’s Garden Center 26

Studio MWR | Midwest Remodel & Co. 29

The Suter Company 31

Sycamore Animal Hospital 21

Sycamore Community School District 427 25

Sycamore Dentistree 3

Sycamore Forest Preserve 20

Sycamore Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry 5

Sycamore Park District 27

Sycamore Township 26

Tate & Lyle Solutions USA 31

Theisen Roofing & Siding Co., Inc. 7

Tom & Jerry’s of Sycamore 20

Upstaging, Inc. 31

Willow Real Estate 30