Member Spotlight: Emily Roper & Mallory Greubel, Founders & Co-Owners, Lucy & Lolly’s Whimsy Workshop

 Lake/Forest Lake Bluff Chamber:  Tell us a little bit about Lucy & Lolly’s Whimsy Workshop and the classes and services you offer?

Emily Roper & Mallory Gruebel:  Right now, we’re offering themed pop-up classes throughout the summer, along with special weekend sessions designed to welcome new families into the space and give them a taste of what we’re all about. Starting this fall, we’ll transition to a session-based model with two core class types: Playful Picassos for ages 18 months to 3 years with a caregiver, and Messy Monets, a drop-off class for ages 3 to 5. We plan to expand with offerings for older children, seasonal workshops, birthday parties, and private events as we grow. Each experience is designed to be creative, engaging, and developmentally appropriate, always with a dash of whimsy.

LF/LB: What inspired you to open Lucy & Lolly’s Whimsy Workshop in Lake Forest?

ER/MG:  Lucy & Lolly’s was inspired by a place that has held a special spot in my heart for years, my mom’s creative play studio in Pittsburgh. She founded Loft Creative Play with so much heart, and I saw firsthand how it became a haven for families and a springboard for children’s imagination. That magic stayed with me. When my good friend Mallory and I started talking about what we felt was missing in our own community, it all clicked, we wanted to bring that same spirit of creativity, connection, and wonder to Lake Forest. We named the studio after our daughters, Lucy and Lolly, and got to work building a space that felt just as warm and magical.

LF/LB: What is your vision or hope for the future of your business?

ER/MG:  At its heart, our mission is simple: to nurture imagination and joy through hands-on creative experiences. We believe in the power of play, the value of art, and the importance of creating a space where children feel seen, safe, and celebrated. Looking ahead, our hope is that Lucy & Lolly’s becomes a beloved community hub, a place where families return again and again, where friendships are formed, and where creativity is sparked in unexpected ways. We envision expanding our offerings to include thoughtfully curated programming for a broader age range, seasonal workshops, school break camps, and community events that bring people together. We also hope to collaborate with local artists, educators, and organizations to keep our space dynamic, inclusive, and ever-evolving. Ultimately, we want every child who walks through our doors to feel a sense of wonder and belonging, and to carry that confidence and curiosity with them long after they leave.

LF/LB:  How does Lucy & Lolly’s Whimsy Workshop plan to support to the community?

 ER/MG:  At Lucy & Lolly’s Whimsy Workshop, supporting the community is at the heart of everything we do. We believe in creating a welcoming space where families can connect, children can express themselves freely, and creativity is celebrated. As we grow, we plan to partner with local schools, libraries, and parent organizations to offer creative resources for families beyond our studio walls. We will aim to highlight local creatives, small businesses, and causes that align with our values. Whether through imaginative play, collaborative events, or simply being a joyful gathering place, our goal is to be a meaningful part of the fabric of the Lake Forest and North Shore communities.

LF/LB: Is there anything else you would like to share about yourselves or your business?

ER/MG:  Lucy & Lolly’s is truly a labor of love. Every detail is designed with care and intention. We’re so excited to welcome families into our space and hope they feel the magic the moment they walk in.