Meet Chicago's Top Singles

On March 22 Today's Chicago Woman Magazine is celebrating spring (it's here, promise) with Chicago's Top 50 Singles. This intriguing collection includes men and women of different ages, different occupations, and different personalities. Some things they have in common, though, are their confidence, their zest for life and their willingness to give back.

Reading through their bios you can see why they were selected, but just how were they chosen? I recognized a few of the names, so I thought I'd ask them that question, and a few others, myself.

I met Jennifer Bridgeforth when I was asked to speak at an event about domestic violence. We talked, we cried, we laughed, and I knew that this was one impressive woman, so I wasn't surprised at all to see her featured. Cara Carriveau is one of my dearest friends and one of the funniest, kindest people you'll ever meet. She's a beautiful lady and an awesome mom. I know Anna Treiber and Victoria Kent through their work at two of Chicago's top PR agencies. Their love for their work is evident, even in press releases (and that's saying something). And Ryan Beshel - the question should be who doesn't know Ryan Beshel! He's the bow tie sporting fashionisto that spreads the word about the 900 North Michigan Shops, who also loves country music and tattoos (who knew?).

While you could enter yourself to be considered for this honor, all five of them were nominated by others. They also are all perfectly comfortable with being single, thank you very much. Anna and Victoria love the freedom; Jennifer the flexibility, and Cara the lack of drama. "I feel very fulfilled in my life - wonderful kids, great job, happy life - I don't feel like I'm missing anything by not being in a relationship," said Cara. "I have no problem waiting for Mr. Right.

Why would they say yes to being featured as a single, then? Here's what they had to say:

Of course, I also had to ask Ryan, why bow ties?

Ryan: Why not?!  Bowties are total head-turners and it’s an accessory that is a bit more fun to me than a standard neck tie.  I try to be anything but ordinary, and I think the bowtie goes right along those lines of thought.  Standing out is always encouraged!

And these five certainly do stand out! Whether you're single or not these are some people that you'll want to know, and TCW's Spring Fever is your chance to meet them. The event is March 22 at 7pm at the River East Arts Center. Tickets are $80 or $95 at the door and proceeds benefit the TCW Foundation.

Photos in the montage courtesy of TCW and taken by Adrian Orozco and Kristyna Archer