STRIKE A (YOGA) POSE
3880 N. Milwaukee Ave. 312-509-3880
New to yoga? Not bendy enough? No worries. This unpretentious Portage Park studio prides itself on zapping the intimidation factor out of the often serious practice. Owner Jim Cogan said he aims to foster a sense of humor and fun, which makes the studio an ideal location for a yogi bride or groom to bring along pals who don’t know a Downward-Facing Dog from a Lotus pose. At around $15 per person, Cogan will customize a two-hour private class to include candles, wine and chocolate-covered strawberries. Namaste.
GET GROOMED
180 W. Lake St. 877-466-7312
If you want to throw a proper bachelor party, “It’s gotta have swag,” said Calvin Hodges, owner of this sleek, dude-centric spa in the Loop. Here, grooms-to-be can rally as many as 10 of their best men for a luxurious hot lather shave and more custom services; the group also gets the run of a windowless, TV-paneled, black-leathered VIP lounge. Prices start at $50 per person. And don’t forget to BYOB.
POLISH UP
1244 N. Wells St. 312-274-9935
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Would you rather relax with a glass of prosecco—or three— than do a keg-stand at a strip joint? Look no further than this indulgent Old Town spa/bar, which boasts 11 signature cocktails ranging from a fizzy mimosa to a Carrie Bradshaw-caliber cosmo, plus a crowd-pleasing wine list. Grab your girls (or boys) and book a private party room for $25 an hour. A mani-pedi costs $58 per person, while bar packages run $13-$17 per person per hour. (Botox injections are also available, for the non-needle- phobic.)
BLISS OUT
161 N. Canal St. 312-466-9585
This West Loop spa is a popular destination for R&R-minded; parties, thanks to soothing packages such as The Getaway, a mani-pedi or facial treatment at $85 a person, and The Vacation, a $175-per-guest choice of massage (Swedish, hot stone or aromatherapy). Prices include access to the venue’s private “sanctuary” area, where you can pop open some champagne, nosh on a Pastoral-catered cheese platter and open naughty gifts.
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