For Eric and Julie Hopkins, home is more than just a place. It is a feeling built on family, connection, and the moments that matter most. This September, their Lake Forest home will be filled with even more joy as they celebrate a particularly special milestone: their daughter Hazel’s first birthday on September 2.

Although Eric and Julie now live in Lake Forest, they both have roots in Pennsylvania. Eric grew up outside Philadelphia, while Julie was raised in Williamsport, PA. It was in Chicago, however, that their paths crossed and everything changed. Julie had been living in the Windy City since 2008, and Eric moved there for a new position in May 2019. Just two weeks later, a mutual friend introduced them, and Chicago quickly became the place where they began building their life together.

Julie’s parents were both born and raised in the Louisville area, and much of her family still lives here today. Those close ties played an important role in Eric and Julie’s decision to move to Louisville in 2021, when they purchased their home on Forest Glenn Court. Their cul-de-sac, welcoming neighbors, and close neighborhood friendships made moving to Lake Forest especially meaningful.

“We had dreams for this house and knew right away that it was home,” Julie shares.

With the arrival of their long-awaited blessing, Hazel, who attends Primrose School, life these days revolves around family time, early dinners, and soaking in all the little moments that come with this sweet and quickly changing stage.

No introduction to the Hopkins family would be complete without Gibson, their six-year-old Havanese and the original baby of the family. Eric and Julie brought him home in 2020, just two weeks before the COVID shutdown, which meant he spent his earliest days constantly by their side. A classic “Velcro dog,” Gibson is happiest wherever his family is and has adjusted beautifully to his new role as Hazel’s loyal big brother.

Professionally, both Eric and Julie have built successful careers. Eric attended Flagler College in St. Augustine, Florida, and now serves as Executive Vice President of MediaJet, a SANDOW Company that connects luxury brands and publications with private-jet travelers through an exclusive private airport network. Julie graduated from the University of Kentucky and earned her master’s degree from the University of Cincinnati. She is the Director of Global Marketing Operations at BVI Medical, a global ophthalmic medical device company focused on advancing eye surgery and improving vision for patients around the world.

Outside of their full-time careers, Eric and Julie each enjoy creative pursuits. Eric has a love of painting and recently sold his first piece to a fellow Lake Forest resident. Julie channels her passion for travel into Epic Escapes, a side business through which she helps others plan meaningful and memorable getaways. 

Travel and exploration have always been an important part of Eric and Julie’s life together. Some of their favorite memories include their honeymoon to Italy’s Amalfi Coast and a trip to Mallorca, both filled with beautiful scenery, exploration, and time together. Most recently, they experienced a new kind of adventure when they took their first vacation as a family of three to Rosewood Baha Mar. It was a special memory for the family, especially watching Hazel get to experience the beach for the first time.

Closer to home, Eric and Julie enjoy exploring Louisville’s restaurants, while embracing the joys of an early reservation that parenthood has brought! The Pine Room and Harry’s are regular favorites. For special occasions, they turn to Jack Fry’s, ROC, and Repeal—places that make an evening feel celebratory and memorable. They also enjoy discovering new restaurants and recently added Italian newcomer Cipollini to their list.

What makes Lake Forest especially meaningful to the Hopkins family is its strong sense of community. From neighborhood events to everyday conversations during walks with Hazel and Gibson, they feel surrounded by people who make the neighborhood warm and welcoming.

Between close family ties, strong friendships, and a welcoming community, the Hopkins family has found a place where they feel supported and excited for all that lies ahead.

And this month, they have one especially sweet reason to celebrate. Happy first birthday, Hazel!