We’re incredibly proud to share that Gene & Georgetti Managing Partner Michelle Durpetti was recently featured in the Chicago Tribune in a piece highlighting top outdoor entertaining trends.
As a third-generation owner of the iconic Gene & Georgetti and the founder of Michelle Durpetti Events, Michelle was honored to contribute insights from both of her professional worlds.
At the heart of her work is a deep passion for creating meaningful moments—whether it’s a perfectly aged steak served with care in one of Chicago’s most historic restaurants or a meticulously curated wedding in the Tuscan countryside. Across both industries, Michelle brings the same unwavering commitment to thoughtful hospitality, seamless execution, and the small but powerful details that elevate every experience.
In the article, Michelle shared one of her favorite tips for outdoor entertaining: layered lighting. From dimmable LED fixtures and lanterns to strategically placed uplighting, lighting plays a key role in setting the tone and ambiance of any gathering. Whether she’s designing a tablescape in a Palm Beach garden or overseeing dinner service in Chicago’s River North, she’s seen firsthand how the right lighting invites guests to gather, connect, and linger just a little longer.
Being included among so many talented professionals in this feature is both an honor and a reflection of the work Michelle is passionate about every day. Whether at Gene & Georgetti or Michelle Durpetti Events, her goal remains the same: to create experiences that are personal, intentional, and beautifully unforgettable.
✨ Read the full feature in the Chicago Tribune Digital Edition.
Whether you’re planning a celebration or simply inviting friends over for dinner, Michelle hopes readers find a bit of inspiration in this piece—and remember that when hospitality is at the heart of what you do, every gathering becomes something worth remembering.
