Tell us a little bit about yourself:
Hi, I’m Rachel Gregerson—mom, business owner, friend, artist, and traveler. I own Beyond Shades, a Hunter Douglas dealership, but I’m much more than that. I’m passionate about art, community, and helping others. Growing up in a working-class family in St. Louis, I had teachers and mentors who saw potential in me and helped me navigate opportunities beyond our means. I started working at the St. Louis Art Museum at just 15, and art has remained a constant thread throughout my life—parallel to my work in business and corporate America. I believe that helping others doesn’t require freedom, just the desire. That’s something my family instilled in me deeply.
Tell us about your family:
I’m originally from Missouri, but I’ve been happily married to a lifelong Chicagoan for 20 years. We met online at a coffee shop and now live in Elmhurst with our two kids—ages 16 and 11. My husband has a PhD in astrophysics and works remotely for Encyclopedia Britannica. He used to take the train into the city daily, but COVID shifted that. My daughter is doing great in school (she texts me her grades every Friday!), and my son plays for the Elmhurst Eagles. We’re a busy, vibrant family who loves Chicago and all it offers.
Is there anything you’d like to share about your career journey and what you love most about your work?
Before founding my business, I ran the window treatment division at the largest shop-at-home company in the U.S. Now, I get to work directly with clients, and I absolutely love it. I’m passionate about providing a warm, personalized experience with luxury window treatments that are functional, stylish, and tailored. I’m also continuing to grow and educate myself—I recently joined the Owner-to-CEO incubator through DuPage Innovators.
We’ve built Beyond Shades with purpose: a client-centered space where people feel welcome, seen, and guided. We’re not about gimmicks or quantity—we serve clients who love their homes and want a trusted specialist to help elevate their spaces. And if something ever goes wrong? We’re right there to make it right.
Do you have a favorite restaurant in Hinsdale?
That’s a layered one! I love Toni’s Patisserie—especially their quiche Lorraine. I often grab treats there for my kids. We’ve also done project meetings at AirRoom, which led to delicious lunches at Fuller House. And for a more elevated dining experience, Hinsdale Prime always delivers. Honestly, I’ve never had a bad meal in Hinsdale!
If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Somewhere warm and tropical—Costa Rica, the Maldives, or Thailand. Most of my travel has been to educational and cultural destinations, especially in Europe. I’m overdue for a trip that’s all about fruity drinks and white sand beaches.
What’s one of your favorite TV shows or movies?
Right now, I’m loving Abbott Elementary. My 11-year-old son and I watch it together—one episode a night. Those 22 minutes with him are truly special.
What advice would you give to others?
In the wise words of my grandmother: “If you do good, good will follow you.” What you put out into the world comes back—whether positive or negative. Karma never forgets an address.
Do you have a bucket list?
Honestly? Not really. I live life actively and in the moment. If there’s something I want to do, I usually just go ahead and book it.
What’s your go-to music?
My playlist depends on the moment. Mornings and get-ready time call for upbeat pop or hip-hop. Travel means love songs. And right now, as Chicago embraces fall, it’s all about jazz and symphony—especially with the Lyric Opera season kicking off.
What’s your favorite local business memory?
Last year during the Wine Walk, I wandered into Razny’s. The woman behind the counter recognized me from Hinsdale Living’s “Power Women” feature, slipped an 8-carat diamond on my hand, and said, “Just look at this!” It was pure magic—friendly, fun, and unforgettable. I haven’t bought anything yet, but I do think about that diamond!
If you could have lunch with anyone alive today, who would it be?
Fawn Weaver, founder of Uncle Nearest whiskey. She built something powerful from the ground up and reclaimed an incredible legacy. I’d take her to Yasa, a Senegalese restaurant on the South Side, and of course, bring along a bottle of her whiskey to toast.
What’s your favorite thing about our community?
I love how walkable and full of life Hinsdale is. I enjoy strolling through town, popping into shops, and supporting local businesses like Toni’s, Phillips Flowers, Salt Creek resale, and AirRoom. It’s the little experiences that make this place feel like home.
Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Originally, I planned to retire at 60, but I’ve shifted that mindset. I enjoy life and working simultaneously—traveling, working, enjoying it all. My goal is to continue to build Beyond Shades as it is scalable and sellable today, one that can either be taken over by my kids or sold with pride.
What’s something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
Despite my public-facing business, I’m more of an introvert. I enjoy my solitude, my close-knit family, and time to recharge. Also—many people don’t realize I’m not just an art lover—I’m an artist myself.
What is the most beautiful place you’ve ever been?
That’s impossible to answer—it’s always the last place I’ve been! Hawaii, Malta, Vienna… floating down the Danube after coming from Paris—it all feels like a dream.
Favorite month, holiday, and best day in your calendar?
March is my favorite—spring begins, and three out of four of us in the family celebrate our birthdays. Christmas has become my favorite holiday. And my favorite day? Sundays. I cook for my family and try to be that cozy, nurturing version of myself.
What would you rate 10 out of 10?
A true friendship. Nothing beats it.
Who inspires you to be better?
My children. Hands down.
What are two of your favorite smells?
Rain before a thunderstorm and the scent of spruce trees—especially from a train ride above the forest in Alaska. Nature, at its purest.
What 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of home?
Family. Love. Foundation.
