Hand-drawn hometown collection
A hand-drawn celebration of Skokie, available exclusively at Sweet Reserve.
Community
Skokie is a diverse, creative community with exceptional cultural institutions, public art, parks, and strong neighborhood life. The Sculpture Park, Skokie Theatre, Exploritorium, downtown, and convenient transit give residents and visitors many ways to feel connected to the village.
Where to find it
4845 Oakton St
Skokie, IL 60077
Store hours
Monday–Thursday: 8 a.m.–9 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m.–10 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m.–10 p.m.
Sunday: 9 a.m.–9 p.m.
Checked September 14, 2026. Holiday and special-event hours may vary.
View current Sweet Reserve Skokie hoursThe collaboration
Our personal connection to the Skokie area comes through my husband Matt, who worked at Shure in neighboring Niles after graduating from Northern Arizona University. That season made the northern suburbs familiar to our family.
I created the Skokie Mug in collaboration with Sweet Reserve. It was especially interesting to learn about the community’s history, heritage, and deep cultural connections while choosing the details that would represent the town.
The story behind the mug
Ashley partnered with Sweet Reserve to create a mug rooted in Skokie.
Research and community input highlighted public art, cultural institutions, theatre, parks, and transit history.
Ashley translated each selected place and symbol into an individual hand-drawn illustration.
The drawings were refined and arranged into a continuous design that rewards a closer look.
The finished mug became a locally available keepsake through Sweet Reserve.
Inside the illustration
Each element celebrates a recognizable part of the community’s history, landscape, gathering places, and everyday life.
Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park helps tell the story of Skokie and the character residents recognize as home.
Illinois Holocaust Museum helps tell the story of Skokie and the character residents recognize as home.
Skokie Theatre helps tell the story of Skokie and the character residents recognize as home.
Downtown Skokie helps tell the story of Skokie and the character residents recognize as home.
Exploritorium helps tell the story of Skokie and the character residents recognize as home.
CTA Yellow Line helps tell the story of Skokie and the character residents recognize as home.
The creative process
Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park set the tone for this composition. I paired it with Illinois Holocaust Museum, Skokie Theatre, and Downtown Skokie, allowing the natural setting and the community’s recognizable places to share the story rather than compete for space.
A meaningful local gift
The mug makes a meaningful Skokie, Illinois housewarming gift, new-home welcome, or moving-away keepsake. Its hand-drawn local details give residents and former residents something familiar to recognize with every cup.