It all started In 1890 when 14 young women of the upper echelon of Chicago families made it their mission to improve the lives of those who were less fortunate. For over a century, these women have dedicated their time and talents to improving Chicago. Proving that they are certainly more than “ladies who lunch”, what separates The Service Club from other organizations is that all of the women who help facilitate these lavish events are not compensated at all. In fact, every single dollar that is collected is given to charity.
As far back as 125 years ago, these women were hosting bazaars in each other’s homes and sewing garments for the poor. Fast forward to now, The Service Club has gained the reputation for putting on some of the most lavish events from the elegant Bal Masque to the fashionable luncheon for A Day on the Terrace.
To date, the organization has raised millions of dollars supporting Chicago communities with this year’s A Day on the Terrace bringing in an impressive $85,000 from ticket sales and raffles.
With such a high turnout for their events, it’s not surprising to know that famous Chicagoans are willing to bend over backward supporting The Service Club’s cause.

At this year’s A Day on the Terrace influential Chicagoans such as NBC’s Lauren Jiggetts, CS Modern Luxury’s David Zivan, and Chicago news vet Suzanne Le Mignot showed their support by strutting down the runway in the latest high-fashion ensembles.
Contrary to the title, the event was not held on the terrace but instead it was in the luxurious Grand Imperial Ballroom. While the ballroom was nothing short of splendor, it’s hard to imagine that this lavish affair was once a gathering of women on a sweltering hot Summer day around a pristine rooftop pool. To keep guests from fanning away during the show, A Day on the Terrace has moved the extravaganza inside so guests can focus on the fashions instead of the hot Summer heat.
While the terrace is not completely absent from the equation, the presence of men in dapper white coats carrying glasses of champagne is always a welcome sight at the pre and post reception of the afternoon of delight.
Many years ago, this much raved about event that was once a meeting of a few has now transformed into a big lavish production complete with bright lights, exquisite set design, and of course, luxurious fashions.