Once upon a time in Highland Park there was a beautiful retail space. But it lay vacant.

“Boo hoo!” the children cried. “We need a kids’ shop!” exclaimed parents.

Then — poof! — with the wave of a magic wand (and six years’ experience as interior designers), childhood friends Stacy Bankier and Emily Kopp opened Snug boutique. They filled it with custom crib bedding, baby gifts, and antique-chic decor plucked from flea markets. At the same time, My Little Pumpkin Kids shop joined the kingdom, selling locally designed burp cloths, blankets, tees, and more in the same space.

Word spread like fairy dust on a windy day.

“It’s a dream come true,” rang the chorus of happy locals.

And they all lived happily ever after.

Snug, 474 Central Street, at Sheridan Road, second floor, Highland Park (847-421-9262 or snughomeinteriors.com); My Little Pumpkin Kids (312-513-7231 or mylittlepumpkinkids.com).

HEAR
Mother Goose and More
What: Chicago Symphony Orchestra sounds off with music from classic tales, including Hansel and Gretel, Sleeping Beauty, and Tom Thumb. Original narration accompanies.
Why: Horn in.
When: Sat., 11 a.m. & 12:45 p.m. Preconcert family activities begin one hour before the show.
Where: Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave., at Adams St. Tickets online at cso.org or 312-294-3000.

GLIDE
McCormick Tribune Ice Rink Opens
What: Take a spin at Millennium Park’s free skate spot as it begins its ninth season.
Why: Holy salchow.
When: Wed.-Mar. 14, 2010. Hours online at millenniumpark.org.
Where: Michigan Ave., b/t Madison & Washington Sts. (312-742-1168).

BITE
Thanksgiving Pie Cupcakes
What: A choice of festive cupcakes in pecan, apple, and pumpkin pie flavors marks a sweet start to the holiday season.
Why: The buttercream’s a dream.
When: Sat.-Nov. 25. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: Swirlz Cupcakes, 705 W. Belden Ave., at Lincoln Ave. (773-404-2253).

Photo: Courtesy of Snug Boutique