It’s a Chicago North Shore Moms’ Small Business Spotlight on Highwood niche boutique and the amazing owner of a 100% woman-owned and operated business, Julie Brugioni of The Silk Thumb!
A proud first-generation Italian American, Highland Park High School alum, and longtime Libertyville resident, Julie has built a career rooted in creativity and community. She owns The Silk Thumb, a Highwood-based design studio known for high-end faux floral arrangements that look stunningly real. What began as a teenage job at 16 grew into her lifelong passion and, for the past 18 years, a thriving business. Today, Julie and her team design everything from custom orchids and succulents to large-scale installations for some of Chicago’s most beloved restaurants (see the list below), bringing timeless, maintenance-free beauty to both homes and businesses. Get to know Julie and The Silk Thumb!
Hi Julie. Please introduce yourself. Where are you from originally? What city do you live in now? What brought you here?
Hi, I’m Julie Brugioni! I was born and raised in Highwood. My parents immigrated here from Italy making me and my two sisters first generation Italian American.
I am the owner of The Silk Thumb and our studio is in Highwood, too! One of the best parts of owning a business in my hometown is being able to visit my mom during the day and then head back to Libertyville in the evenings.
I’ve lived in Libertyville for over 10 years now with my daughter, Savannah, who is nine years old and currently in fourth grade. We are really loving this school year so far; I’m so impressed with the schools and community support here.
What are your favorite North Shore activities?
Outside of running my business, I make time for the things that keep me active like working out at OrangeTheory. I’ve been going there consistently for over 8 years and I just love it!
I also love boating. My boyfriend and I recently bought a boat together and it’s quickly become our happy place. We have a slip at a local marina 30 minutes away and head out on the water as often as possible.
I also love everything downtown Libertyville has to offer — especially First Fridays and the amazing local shopping.
Last, but not least, when I get a quiet moment, you’ll find me curled up with a good book. If you have any recommendations, send them my way! I’m always looking for my next great read. (I’m a fan of Ellen Hildebrand!)
It’s time to get down to business. I love highlighting niche businesses. Please introduce your niche business, The Silk Thumb.
The Silk Thumb is a studio located in Highwood that specializes in high-end faux floral design, especially custom orchid and succulent arrangements. We specialize in creating stunning interior and exterior faux plant designs custom curated for both commercial and residential spaces, and we are known for using only the most realistic replica plants on the market. We are 100% woman owned.
Where do you source your high quality arrangements?
I attend industry trade shows each year where designers and suppliers from around the globe gather to showcase the best in replica plants and florals.
Your client list is impressive – tell our audience where we see your faux plant and flower arrangements.
You might have even seen our work without realizing it! We design pieces for some of Chicago’s hottest hospitality groups including Lettuce Entertain You, Ballyhoo, and many others.
Locally, you can spot our floral & plant installations at restaurants like Pomeroy in Winnetka and DeNucci’s in Highland Park and Deere Park American Brasserie in Highwood.
Floral Ceiling Maple & Ash, Scottsdale
Any myths about the faux plant and flower industry you’d like to bust here?
Let’s be real… faux plants have come a long way in the last 5–10 years, but what we offer is not your average big-box store find.
At The Silk Thumb, we work one-on-one with our clients to create custom pieces that feel like a natural extension of their home. You can even bring in your own containers, and together we’ll design something that reflects your style, color palette, and vibe.
Is there anything else you’d like us to know about yourself or The Silk Thumb?
Our creations are timeless, maintenance-free (just a feather duster will do!), and meant to last for years. Whether you’re looking to refresh a space in your home, stage a property, or add a wow-factor to your business we will make it happen.
And yes we always have some beautiful pre-made orchids and succulents ready for pickup at the studio if you’re in need of a last-minute gift or want a little something for yourself.
Custom Olive Trees for a luxury hotel in Orlando, Florida.
And your contact details for our friends who want to reach out?
I love meeting new people and helping bring their design vision to life. You can explore our portfolio online, and feel free to call, text (847-687-3253), or email me directly to schedule an appointment at our studio, 6 Walker Ave., Highwood, IL 60040.
Whether you’re a fellow mom, a home decor enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates beautiful things I’d love to connect with you and share what we do at The Silk Thumb on Instagram (@silkthumb) and LinkedIn (Julie Brugioni)
Thanks so much for reading and for supporting local, women-owned businesses like mine. I’m proud to be raising a strong daughter and showing her that with passion and hard work, anything is possible!
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