Ravenswood Welcomes Two Trailblazing New Businesses Breaking the Mold in 2026

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Ravenswood · February 24, 2026

Ravenswood is ringing in 2026 with a pair of fresh, one-of-a-kind new businesses that prove this neighborhood continues to attract bold, community-minded entrepreneurs. First up: Paper Bunny Press has officially opened its first-ever brick-and-mortar storefront at 4956 N. Damen Ave., just steps from Winnemac Park. Owner Samantha Rekas spent nearly four years building a loyal following through pop-up markets and online sales — at events like Markets for Makers, Apple Fest, and Renegade Craft — before finally planting permanent roots in the neighborhood. The cozy shop is stocked with her signature "surprisingly snarky stationery," including greeting cards, stickers, notepads, planners, and eclectic magnets, alongside a curated selection of other artists she admires. Rekas also has plans to eventually host workshops and community events right in the space.

Meanwhile, a few blocks away, Mechanista is quietly revolutionizing the auto repair industry from its Ravenswood location. The nonprofit repair shop was founded by Lisa Thompson with a clear mission: to make car care more inclusive for women and nonbinary people. With lead mechanic Ray Chafin — a former Air Force heavy mobile equipment mechanic — at the helm, Mechanista is tackling the staggering fact that women make up just 2% of auto mechanics nationwide, while also creating a welcoming, jargon-free environment for customers who've long felt intimidated in traditional garages.

Whether you're shopping for the perfect sassy birthday card or finally getting that oil change in a space where you feel truly seen, Ravenswood's newest businesses are worth a visit. Stop by Paper Bunny Press on N. Damen Ave. and keep an eye out for Mechanista as both continue to grow their Ravenswood roots in 2026.

Sources:
1. https://blockclubchicago.org/2026/02/20/paper-bunny-press-opens-new-ravenswood-stationary-shop/
2. https://news.wttw.com/2026/02/12/meet-women-behind-mechanista-chicago-garage-aiming-make-car-care-more-inclusive