Meet the members bringing the shine to Soho House Chicago

For the past nine years, Soho House Chicago has held space for creatives across the city to meet, connect, and inspire new ideas. 

To celebrate 20 years of Soho House in North America, we’re spotlighting those members who make Soho House Chicago a unique connected community. 

Below, meet stylist and Founder member, Brandon Fein; fellow Founder member and photographer, Paul Octavious; marketing and hospitality expert, Ryan Myers, and dancer and fashion creator, Peter Gaona.

Top, clockwise from bottom left: Paul Octavious, Brandon Frein, Ryan Meyers, Bryan Benhaim, Katie Stowers, Peter Gaona, and Abi English
Above: Brandon Frein; the stylist is joined by Peter Gaona and André Reid

Brandon Frein 
Commercial and editorial wardrobe stylist

How long have you been a member?
‘I’ve been a Founder member since 2014.’ 

Why is Soho House special to you? And what makes your US House unique? 
‘The staff and members are what make Soho House so special. I’ve made so many amazing connections and friends over the years. These connections have brought me not only some incredible opportunities, but also a helping of inspiration and joy. I love my Soho House family.

‘Soho House Chicago is unique because it’s filled with Midwesterners. We are a tough and loyal bunch. As the saying goes, the Midwest is best.’

How do you spend your time at Soho House? Any standout moments?
‘If I’m not by the pool, then my favourite thing to do is talk to fellow members to inspire and support each other, and maybe even create something. That’s the best part by far.

‘One of my favourite Soho House memories was taking a trip to Camp Wandawega alongside some of my fellow Chicago members, as well as others from the LA and Toronto Houses. We had a ridiculous amount of fun exploring, eating, dancing, kayaking, doing yoga, and drinking copious amounts of Grey Goose vodka.’

Above, from left: Paul Octavious; Peter Gaona, André Reid, Brandon Frein, Ryan Meyers and Paul Octavious head to the House

Paul Octavious 
Photographer and creative director

How long have you been a member?
‘Since 2014, I’ve been a Founder member.’

Why is Soho House special to you? And what makes your US House unique?
‘I believe that our House has the highest level of diversity among its members and events. Over the years, numerous transformations have occurred, yet the unmistakable Chicago vibe remains a constant presence.’

How do you spend your time at Soho House? Any standout moments? 
‘My go-to activities revolve around hitting the gym and throwing fantastic get-togethers for friends. Right from the start, Soho House Chicago’s parties have been a blast, delivering an electrifying experience that’s etched in my memory. My most unforgettable moment to this day is photographing Nick Jones on the rooftop of the House before a pool was even put in.’