Bachendorf's

The Magazine of Life’s Celebrations Fall/Winter 2016/17

HOLIDAY GIFT PICKS FOR EVERYONE ON YOUR LIST INSURANCE TIPS: Keep Your Treasures Safe

SPECIAL

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CONTENTS

Fall/Winter 2016/17

S T O R E L O C AT I O N S : P L A Z A AT P R E S T O N C E N T E R

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8400 PRESTON ROAD DALLAS, TX 75225 214-692-8400 GALLERIA LEVEL 1 13350 DALLAS PARKWAY SUITE 1415 DALLAS, TX 75240 972-392-9900 S H O P S AT L E G A C Y– N O R T H 7401 LONE STAR DRIVE SUITE B100 PLANO, TX 75024

972-596-2090

PUBLISHED BY B J I FA S H I O N G R O U P PUBLISHER STU NIFOUSSI

4 Welcome Letter

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

11 Team Profile: Collette Foreman

KAREN ALBERG GROSSMAN

12 What’s Happening: Events C R E AT I V E D I R E C T O R

14 Holiday Finds

HANS GSCHLIESSER

18 Trends: The Cutting Edge of Edgy

MANAGING EDITOR JILLIAN L A ROCHELLE

22 Marco Bicego: The Art of Authenticity

PROJECT MANAGER LISA MONTEMORRA

24 From the Runways 26 Hannah Becker: Doodle Darling 28 Forevermark: In the Rough 30 Giving Back: Pass it On

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32 Insurance: Better Safe Than Sorry

PEG EADIE

depending on size, quality and availability. Copyright 2016

36 Rolex: Desperately Seeking Daytona

BRIDAL SECTION

38 Timepieces: Celebrity Watch

46 A Bachendorf’s Love Story: Elissa & Chris

56 Food: Nuevo Mexico

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Prices are subject to change without notice and may vary

34 Timepieces: Watch Out!

40 Omega: The Seamaster Planet Ocean Deep Black Collection

DESIGNER JEAN-NICOLE VENDITTI

Accent® is published by Business Journals, Inc, P.O. Box 5550, Norwalk, CT 06856, 203-853-6015 • Fax: 203-852-

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60 Wine: Sparkling Diversions

50 Paparazzi Proposals: Capture the Moment

62 Perfect Gems

52 Out of the Box

Journals, Inc. registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark

64 Recipe: Pimento Cheese Dip

54 Natural Wonders

office. Printed In The U.S.A.

reproduced without written permission of the publishers.

Volume 14, Issue 2. Accent® is a trademark of Business

Introducing The Artisan Handcrafted Modern Chain Collection

welcome

To Our Valued Customers and Friends,

M

y goal this season is to spend less time looking at social media and the internet.

My wife and I spend so much time in the digital world—shopping, sourcing news, or watching friends’ lives go by on Facebook and Instagram. I want to

spend my time being present, connecting and interacting face to face with the people who are important to me and enjoying what this great country has to offer.

On that note, I am so grateful for my career and the opportunity to help our customers on a personal level.

Our trained sales team personally guarantees that your purchases are authentic and that you’re making the best possible choices, as a way to achieve peace of mind when making a watch or jewelry purchase.

One of the hardest things we have to do on occasion is to inform a customer that they have been a victim of misinformation or deceit on the internet. Sometimes, what they think they purchased is not, in fact, what they received. In our world, trust and expertise are critical to making quality choices that make our customers happy over the long term. There is no substitute for being present and touching, holding and feeling a luxury timepiece or jewel and being assured of its quality and authenticity. In this issue I highly recommend the Watch Out! article by Christian

Lawrence and Harry Bock enjoying dinner in Paris after a successful diamond buying trip to Antwerp, 1981.

Chensvold, discussing the importance of buying and servicing your timepieces with an authorized dealer. I hope you enjoy this issue of our Accent magazine, and that we all have a wonderful fall and winter season celebrating our relationships and loved ones—in person.

Sincerely, Lawrence Bock, President

The Galleria Mall - Level 1 13350 Dallas Parkway Dallas, TX 75240 (972) 392-9900

Shops at Legacy – North 7401 Lone Star Drive Plano, TX 75024 (972) 596-2090

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Plaza at Preston Center 8400 Preston Road Dallas, TX 75225 (214) 692-8400

®ROBERTOCOIN

POIS MOI COLLECTION

The O riginator of Cult ure d Pe arls.

S i n c e 18 9 3 .

C AV I A R C O L L E C T I O N S

M Y L A G O S M Y W AY

A DESIGNER’S PERSPECTIVE STE VEN L AGOS SHARES THE INSPIRATION BEHIND HIS NEW DESIGNS FOR FALL

1. W H AT I S T H E I N S P I R AT I O N B E H I N D T H E FA L L COLLECTIONS?

3 . H O W D O YO U D E F I N E T H E S T Y L E O F T H E WO M E N WE AR I NG L AGOS?

The fall collection is perhaps the best example of th e ve r sat i l it y of L AG OS. T h e L AG OS wo m a n can wear these pieces from day to night with ease and conf idence, which echoes ou r b rand c a m p a i g n m e s s a g e : M Y L A G O S M Y W AY.

T he L AGOS woman i s undoubted l y conf ident, soph i sticated and i ndependent. She i s secu re in her day to day st yle. I can absolutely see our c l i e n t e l e m i x i n g o u r s i g n a t u r e s t e r l i n g s i l ve r, t w o tone and diamond bracelets along with Black C a v i a r. A l l L AG O S c o l l e c t i o n s a r e d e s i g n e d w i t h the intention to layer and stack.

2 . WHY THE CONTI NUE D USE OF BL ACK CE R A M I C T H I S FA L L? When I fi rst introduced the Black and White Caviar collections, it was my goal to show Caviar in a d if fe rent l ig ht. I l ove to ex pe r i ment w ith tex tu re, scale and colo r s beyond traditional si lver and gold. It took about 3 years to br ing my initial v i s i o n t o r e a l i t y, a s B l a c k C a v i a r r e q u i r e d a completely new fabr ication process. This fall, pairing bold ceramic black beads with brilliant diamonds and ster l ing si lver of fer s a luxe look with a subtle edge.

4 . WHAT I S U N I Q U E ABO U T L AG OS? C a v i a r, o u r s i g n a t u r e d e s i g n , s e t s o u r b r a n d a p a r t and allows for our handcrafted pieces to be immediately recognizable. The exper t level of craf tsmanship that goes into creating each Cavia r bead and our use of only the finest mater ials is unsur passable.

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team profile

COLLETTE FOREMAN Collette Foreman is a luxury sales professional at Bachendorf ’s.

While receiving her degree in management consulting at the University of Southern Colorado, she also pursued her passion and a career in the jewelry industry.

How did you get started in the jewelry business?

My life in jewelry started when I was 14 years old and a family friend in the jewelry industry needed a gift wrapper for the holiday season. During my lifetime career I have had the opportunity to serve as a manager, regional supervisor, national trainer/recruiter and director in the jewelry business.

Bachendorf’s welcomed me with open arms 11 years ago. I work at the Dallas Galleria location, where I am the Breitling ambassador, corporate sales representative, Roberto Coin brand coordinator and Montblanc brand specialist.

Through the Breitling ambassadorship I have had the honor to travel to Switzerland and fly with the Breitling Jet Team. Bachendorf’s has allowed me new opportunities to grow in this industry and create lasting relationships with vendors, suppliers and clients.

Who is your favorite designer?

My favorite jewelry designers are Roberto Coin, Carrera y Carrera and Mikimoto.

As far as timepieces, I love Breitling, Rolex and Montblanc—just to name a few. I believe jewelry should be fun and reflect a person’s inner beauty. I love helping people find the piece that speaks to them.

What are your favorite jewelry pieces to wear?

I like to stand out from the crowd. You will always see me wearing a BIG statement necklace and an oversized watch. I like happy jewelry that reflects my sparkling personality.

What would you be doing if you weren’t in the jewelry industry?

Oh, what a sad world that would be! Well actually, I would be in the training and recruiting industry using my leadership, organizational and communications skills.

I am a problem-solving people person who enjoys making people happy.

What do you do in your spare time outside of work?

I compete in ballroom dance competitions dancing the cha cha, tango, rhumba, foxtrot and waltz. I also enjoy cooking Italian cuisine, home design and gardening.

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EVENTS AT BACHENDORF’S AT BACHENDORF’S JEWELERS, WE CONTINUE OUR LONG-STANDING TRADITION OF HOSTING FUN EVENTS TO ENTERTAIN CLIENTS AND BENEFIT CHARITABLE CAUSES.

LA FIESTA DEBUTANT<S

Bachendorf’s is proud of our long-standing partnership with La Fiesta and we appreciate the difference in our community that this support helps make possible.

ROLEX BASELWORLD 2016 Bachendorf’s hosted an exclusive presentation of new watches launched at Baselworld 2016.

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TAG HEUER CARRERA CALIBRE HEUER 01 Chris Hemsworth works hard and chooses his roles carefully. He handles pressure by taming it, and turning it to his advantage. #DontCrackUnderPressure was coined with him in mind.

from the

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VENDOR brief description VENDOR brief description VENDOR brief description VENDOR brief description VENDOR brief description VENDOR brief description

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from the

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PATENT SHINE

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CHANEL J12 36.5MM BLACK CERAMIC AND STEEL WATCH WITH BLACK GUILLOCHÉ DIAL & 69 DIAMONDS ON BEZEL RING, $14,900 CHIMENTO 18K TWO-TONE GOLD BAMBOO STYLE CUFF BRACELET WITH 12 DIAMONDS, $11,780 JOHN HARDY HAMMERED STERLING SILVER WITH PAVÉ DIAMONDS LINK NECKLACE, $6,800 DAVID YURMAN 18K YELLOW GOLD HAMPTON CABLE LINK NECKLACE, $27,000 PHILLIPS HOUSE 14K YELLOW GOLD AFFAIR DIAMOND POLISHED LOVE ALWAYS 5MM RING WITH DIAMONDS, $1,500 LAGOS STERLING SILVER DIAMOND LUX CAVIAR BRACELET, $1,767

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DAVID YURMAN 18K YELLOW GOLD & FACETED MORGANITE RING WITH 0.44 CARATS PAVÉ DIAMONDS, $6,950 PESAVENTO METALWORKS ROSE GOLD BRACELET WITH BRONZE DUST, $372 LANA JEWELRY 14K YELLOW GOLD, WHITE GOLD & ROSE GOLD (TRI-GOLD) TRI FRINGE EAR DUSTERS, $1,795 CHOPARD HAPPY SPORT 18K ROSE GOLD AND STAINLESS STEEL 36MM AUTOMATIC WATCH WITH DIAMONDS, $17,330 LISA NIK 18K ROSE GOLD WITH CUSHION-SHAPED GREEN AMETHYST STUD EARRINGS, $1,155 MARCO BICEGO 16.5” 18K YELLOW GOLD & GOYABA QUARTZ PENDANT NECKLACE, $1,830

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trends

TheCutting Edgeof

EDGY S

ome seasons, jewelry is front-and-center in fashion, and for fall/winter 2016 that’s surely the case. “Runways from New York to across the Atlantic have shown us that the most current looks are about notice-me accessories. Obviously, that includes high-drama jewels,” says fashion forecaster David Wolfe, creative director at international trend forecasting agency The Doneger Group. There’s a cool, modern edginess to almost everything. In fine jewelry, it’s done imaginatively and differently by each brand. Some designs are asymmetric. Some are formed in mixes of yellow gold, black gold and oxidized silver. And some FOCUS ON BLACK OR GRAY GEMS AS KEY ELEMENTS. Wolfe reminds us that fashion trends today last longer than they used to, and he affirms that black and gray have remained strong since last year.

Asymmetry on the catwalks has also been a huge influence. “Look at all the zigzag hemlines and waistlines,” Wolfe urges, identifying them as part of “the new disruptive dressing”—disruptive in a good way, where many of those old “rules” of style are broken.

Non-traditional nuances are new in jewelry.

BY LORRAINE DEPASQUE

KEY EDGY ESSENTIALS Certainly, mismatched earrings are indispensable this season. Earlier this year it was one of the most talked-about jewelry looks on Hollywood’s red carpets. Jewelry blogger Becky Stone, editor in chief and founder of DiamondsInTheLibrary.com, believes fun-to-wear mismatched earrings will become even more popular going forward. It’s a confident look to say the least! “Hoops, too,” she notes, “particularly bigger and atypical ones, with unexpected angles or embellishments.” With 75,000 followers on Instagram alone, Stone has noticed that, as more designers are doing asymmetrical, people are embracing it. “With bracelets, for example, I think you’re going to see a lot more non-traditional sculptural forms by the end of the year.”

Time to talk about layering. It’s been trending for several seasons and you’re sure to see it continue. “However, some jewelry tailoring is starting, which means bigger, MORE STATEMENT PIECES and not as much stacking,” says jewelry writer and blogger Cathleen McCarthy, founder and editor of TheJewelryLoupe.com.

Fashion for holiday and into next year is perfect for accessorizing with larger jewelry, agrees Wolfe, noting, “With the new erogenous zone being the shoulder (given all the off-the-shoulder clothes that allow for one or both to be bare) the time is now for big necklaces and earrings—notice-me jewelry!”

HOW TO WALK ON JEWELRY’S DARK SIDE Top: Roberto Coin Bottom: Stephen Webster

Some of the most innovative and exciting edgy designs are in blackened metals. “Yellow gold beautifully continues to trend,” confirms Stone, “but

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freelancer collection

there’s a lot more blackened metal as well.” Notably, distinctive, unconventional designs in blackened gold [aka rhodium-plated white gold] and oxidized sterling silver. McCarthy adds, “Dark titanium, too. Rose gold is also still on-trend, and I especially like the way certain luxury jewelry brands are MIXING GOLD WITH BLACK GOLD or oxidized silver.” There are many rich yellow gold pendants, for instance, on dark metal chains of all types, including links.

“A great way to create edgy style this year,” McCarthy advises, “is to layer some blackened jewelry with your yellow or rose gold.” So, for example, if you’re stacking three, four or five bangles, even one dark-hued bracelet added in the middle will instantly give your overall jewelry look that trending avant-garde feeling.”

Another good suggestion on how to get started accessorizing with edgy contemporary jewelry? Buy one great graphic piece: perhaps a theatrical two-finger ring, upward-trailing ear climbers, or A STRONG CHOKER/COLLAR, EITHER OPEN-ENDED OR CLOSED, as both are hot in fashion.

A FEW FRINGE GEMS (& COLORS) AT THE FOREFRONT Do not—I repeat: do not!—forget to buy some new jewelry with black or gray gemstones. Black diamonds, fancy black sapphires and black spinel are especially important. Both McCarthy and Stone like the way more and more artisanal collections are now featuring these untraditional gems. Stone suggests that, for fall/winter, when searching for an original piece of colored stone jewelry to add to your wardrobe, be sure to look beyond the “Big Three”: ruby, blue sapphire and emerald. “I’ve actually seen an uptick in interest in yellow sapphires, so you should definitely ask your jeweler about them,” says Stone. This isn’t a gem that’s typically in the edgy stone category but, as she reminds us, “Yellow sapphire is such a joyful gem—so vibrant and vivacious.”

Right now and into 2017, the whole spectrum of fancy sapphires is in fashion—as are all the many shades of spinel. “Some spectacular spinel jewelry was premiered this year, and it’s refreshing,” notes Stone, “because, unfortunately, spinel tends to go under-appreciated.” Just recently, the jewelry industry named spinel as an additional birthstone for those born in August. Ask your jeweler to show you some modern spinel jewelry in its many different colors, from fiery reds and oranges to dark and edgy black beauties, from pastel lavenders to blues and greens.

Speaking of blues and greens, McCarthy says, “There are so many shimmery ones for fall/winter—opal, moonstone and blue-toned labradorite, especially—and triplets, too, which are designed to create their own watery light show. Frequently with triplets, A BOTTOM LAYER OF MOTHER OF PEARL LENDS GLIMMER TO SLICE OF COLOR, EMERALD FOR EXAMPLE, all viewed through a transparent rock crystal prism.”

Another gem that was, for a long time, somewhat off the grid in modern affordable jewelry is the Tahitian pearl. Well, it’s back—big-time—in its natural kaleidoscopic hues of black, gray, eggplant and dark green/blue. “Pearls, especially Tahitians, are everywhere this season,” McCarthy tells us, “big and small, and sometimes creatively carved, too.”

As you think forward to your jewelry wardrobe for spring/summer, it will be more important than ever to own a few pieces of gray gemstone jewelry.

So it’s definitely not too soon to start talking with your jeweler about your everyday style and start looking for a piece that’s fashioned with on-trend grays like Tahitian pearls, or slate-shaded labradorite, hematite, moonstone or mother of pearl.

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Buy one great graphic piece: perhaps a theatrical two-finger ring, upward-trailing ear climbers, or a strong choker/collar, either open-ended or closed, as both are hot in fashion.

Top: Armenta Center: Penny Preville Bottom: Stephen Webster

designers

AUTHENTICITY THE ART OF

A

fter many years working with his father, a successful value, Bicego creates the extraordinary, season after season.

Vicenza jewelry maker who specialized in gold chains, “Because our jewelry is handcrafted by goldsmiths, there is a Marco Bicego launched his own collection of unique personal quality reflected in every piece. For example, handcrafted fine jewelry in 2000. our craftsmen use a special tool to Famous for its multi-colored engrave hundreds of tiny lines on gemstones in exclusive faceted the gold’s surface, creating a cuts, its hand-twisted coils and tactile finish that remains virtually hand-engraved gold, his unalterable through time and collections (crafted in Italy) are nearly impossible to imitate.”

BY KAREN ALBERG GROSSMAN inspired by the nature and the Always pushing the architecture of his extensive boundaries of modern design, travels around the world (Africa, Cairo, Jaipur, Murano and other Bicego’s collections continuously evolve and are meant to be fascinating locales). Infusing each piece with a particular mixed and layered for a personalized look. Here, we speak with cultural sensibility that goes beyond its beauty and intrinsic this passionate designer about his craft, and his life.

MARCO BICEGO’s unique

approach to jewelry, food and life.

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Could you share a lesson you learned from your father, and one you hope to teach your children?

One of the greatest lessons my father passed down to me was the craft of goldsmithing. But the more important lesson he taught me that I hope to impress upon my children is to do what you love. For me that has always meant making jewelry; my craft allows me to express my personal experience, passion and curiosity. I always urge my children to find something that holds the same significance in their lives.

You’ve traveled extensively: what’s your favorite place in the world to visit?

It’s hard to choose. Most recently, my travels to East Africa inspired my newest Masai collection. The Masai people wear incredibly detailed ornaments that organically hug the body’s natural shape. My Masai collection follows this same accentuation, with each piece delicately hand-coiled with yellow and white gold and accented by pronounced stations of diamonds.

What’s your favorite place in the world to live?

It would have to be Italy, of course! My heritage is the very foundation of my work and means so much to my identity. You can see the skills of old-world Italian craftsmanship through our use of the bulino technique to etch hundreds of fine lines into our pieces. Even today, our jewelry is handcrafted by second-generation goldsmiths, giving each piece a unique, imperfect quality.

What’s still on your bucket list?

There is so much of the world that I still hope to see. My collections are a beautiful way to catalogue my travels, from Masai to my Jaipur collection, which was inspired by the “pink city” in India, where stone-cutting has been perfected over the ages. I want to continue traveling, transforming those inspirations into beautiful, timeless pieces.

What would you be doing if not jewelry design?

Without a doubt, I would be cooking. Growing up in Italy, my mother was always cooking and I would help her in the kitchen. We always used fresh ingredients sourced locally. As I would help her, I would begin interpreting her recipes as my own. I love cooking for family and friends and have a nostalgic list of recipes that I can pass down to my children.

Describe your favorite meal?

Marco Bicego’s Eight Jewelry Essentials

1. A CLASSIC ITALIAN COLLAR 2. STATEMENT EARRINGS 3. STACKED BRACELETS 4. TIMELESS STUD EARRINGS 5. A CLASSIC YELLOW GOLD RING 6. MIXED METALS 7. LONG LAYERING NECKLACES 8. POPS OF COLOR

My favorite meal would absolutely be with my family and friends, whatever we eat and wherever we come together. They are my greatest supporters and are incredibly important to me. I love cooking with mushrooms, which I hunt for during truffle season, so I love making Fettuccine ai Porcini—it’s both simple and delicious!

Who do you most admire and why?

I’d have to say my father, Giuseppe Bicego. The gold chain business he founded in Vicenza evolved into a very successful company. Without his expertise, encouragement and guidance in my formative years, my art would never be where it is today. For that, I am forever grateful.

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from the

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CHANEL J12 36.5MM BLACK CERAMIC AND STEEL WATCH WITH BLACK GUILLOCHÉ DIAL & 69 DIAMONDS ON BEZEL RING, $14,900 CHIMENTO 18K TWO-TONE GOLD BAMBOO STYLE CUFF BRACELET WITH 12 DIAMONDS, $11,780 JOHN HARDY HAMMERED STERLING SILVER WITH PAVÉ DIAMONDS LINK NECKLACE, $6,800 DAVID YURMAN 18K YELLOW GOLD HAMPTON CABLE LINK NECKLACE, $27,000 PHILLIPS HOUSE 14K YELLOW GOLD AFFAIR DIAMOND POLISHED LOVE ALWAYS 5MM RING WITH DIAMONDS, $1,500 LAGOS STERLING SILVER DIAMOND LUX CAVIAR BRACELET, $1,767

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DAVID YURMAN 18K YELLOW GOLD & FACETED MORGANITE RING WITH 0.44 CARATS PAVÉ DIAMONDS, $6,950 PESAVENTO METALWORKS ROSE GOLD BRACELET WITH BRONZE DUST, $372 LANA JEWELRY 14K YELLOW GOLD, WHITE GOLD & ROSE GOLD (TRI-GOLD) TRI FRINGE EAR DUSTERS, $1,795 CHOPARD HAPPY SPORT 18K ROSE GOLD AND STAINLESS STEEL 36MM AUTOMATIC WATCH WITH DIAMONDS, $17,330 LISA NIK 18K ROSE GOLD WITH CUSHION-SHAPED GREEN AMETHYST STUD EARRINGS, $1,155 MARCO BICEGO 16.5” 18K YELLOW GOLD & GOYABA QUARTZ PENDANT NECKLACE, $1,830

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interview

DARLING DOODLE

P

hiladelphia-based Hannah Becker is one of the jewelry industry’s most fun-tofollow Instagrammers, brightening our days with lighthearted, pop-culture inspired gem art. Here, she talks about her creative process and how she turned a passion into a business.

industry. I got a job doing production work for Gumuchian, working one-on-one with the jewelers who manufactured the pieces. During this time I started regularly posting what are now known as Diamondoodles.

When did you decide that Diamondoodles was taking off enough that it had the potential to become a business?

What kind of career were you originally planning when you enrolled at GIA? I studied art history at Bard College, and my senior thesis was about glitter as a material in contemporary art. (I like to tell people that I’ve always liked shiny things; I just upgraded from glitter to gemstones!) I wasn’t interested in museum or gallery work, so I ended up starting a branding, social media marketing and web design business with a friend.

One day I went with my brother to pick out an engagement ring for my now-sister-in-law. We visited the jeweler who had sold our dad our

BY JILLIAN mom’s engagement ring, and he was very personable, telling us all about the diamonds and how they are certified. That’s how I learned that GIA had educational programs.

Even though I was enjoying my small business, I still felt that I hadn’t 100% hit on what I wanted to do career-wise. I had always been fascinated by fashion and accessories, jewelry in particular. It seemed like this path combined my passion for gems and sparkles with my art history education.

Within six months I was at GIA and eventually earned my Graduate Gemologist certification; I also did the CAD Jewelry Design program. I wanted to design and I knew this would be a great access point into the

My assignment with Gumuchian ended after nine months because I had been filling in for someone on maternity leave. I was interviewing for other jobs, but I realized I was passionate about trying to build something of my own. The jewelry industry is full of small family businesses, and though I don’t come from a family business, that idea resonated with me. Since I had marketing experience, I was able to soon get a project for a large gem company, designing their trade show materials for the Tucson Gem Show. I picked up a few other small clients— LAROCHELLE creating original artwork and window displays, doing graphic layouts—and began officially working for myself in January 2015.

Most people have a company before they have to brand it, but I had a brand before I really knew what I was going to do with it. It’s been a process deciding what types of projects I want to take on.

A discussion with HANNAH

BECKER, the talented GIA Graduate Gemologist and artist also known as Instagram’s Diamondoodles.

Creating doodles with gems seems like an expensive endeavor! Where do the gems come from?

A vast majority of them are on loan from clients, and I usually only have a small rainbow on hand to work from. One thing people are surprised to

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learn is that Diamondoodles are very temporary. As soon as I finish a piece and photograph it, the gems all go back to their homes.

least every other day, and some days my brain just isn’t working creatively. I’ll send out a group text begging, “Send words to me! I don’t even care if they’re great ideas!” Maybe it’ll take my mind somewhere. When I hit 20,000 followers, I asked for suggestions on what people wanted to see; the Hawaiian shirt was an idea from a follower and I really love that one.

Does it make you a little sad sometimes to destroy all your hard work?

Yes! But because it’s been part of the process from the beginning, I’m pretty used to it at this point. I never realized how alarming it was to other people until I took one apart in front of a friend. He was horrified! It’s not as glamorous behind the scenes. I don’t have hundreds of pieces of art sitting around my house, but I do keep the “skeletons”—the little doodles that the gems go into—for my own records.

Do you create sponsored posts on your Instagram feed?

It’s less that I create sponsored content, more that if I’m hired to do a project, I’m happy to share it with my followers. I only take on work that I’m excited to share! I consider Instagram to be my portfolio, in a way.

Do you stumble upon inspirational gems and want to build something around them, or do you get ideas for a finished doodle first and then wait for the right gems to come along?

Are there any stones you particularly like working with?

A little bit of both. There have been times when I wanted to do something and had to wait a really long time until I came across the right stones for it. And other times I’m inspired by the gems in front of me. I like working with smaller stones in general, because they give me more control over creating forms.

I recently did a tennis ball made of chrysoberyl, and that was cool because it’s got a neon, citron character. That stone is unfamiliar to the greater world. I also did a lemonade stand made of yellow diamonds with grass made out of green diamonds. That was exciting, because natural color diamonds are rare and hard to come by. I’ve been trying to include more information about the stones in my posts; I think gemstones are fascinating and it’s fun to let people know what’s special about a stone.

Beyond the fact that it’s crazy that the Earth makes these things!

How has your work evolved in the two years you’ve been creating Diamondoodles?

Do you think of yourself as being in the art world or the jewelry world?

The most noticeable change is that I’ve gotten so much better at photographing them. It’s difficult to photograph gemstones, and to get a clean background. I usually take about 30 to 40 photographs of each one, just to get the angle and the lighting right.

At the beginning the world was my oyster, but now it’s harder to come up with ideas. I try to keep my Instagram fresh with a new post at

I tend to think of myself as being in the jewelry industry. I did a lot of fine art in high school, but it was never as refined as my classmates’ work. My drawings were always a little wonky, which is where my aesthetic is even now. Everything looks like what it needs to look like, but never the most pristine version. So I always felt a little bit off in that regard. But I do think what I do is artistic. I’m starting to realize I’m an artist in my own right.

HANNAH’S PICKS

“Bold and colorful tends to be my jewelry style,” says Becker. “I gravitate toward big pieces and I love a mix of colors. Playful jewelry that can be formal but also dressed down is worth the investment.”

Left to right: Stephen Webster Lady Stardust bracelet Marco Bicego Murano collection drop earrings David Yurman 18K rose gold and cognac diamond pinky ring Ippolita Rock Candy turquoise drop-shaped necklace Stephen Webster Magnipheasant pendant

27

spotlight

IN THE

ROUGH

FOREVERMARK’s focus on helping women in need and strengthening mining communities.

BY JULIANNE PEPITONE

W

hen famed National Geographic photographer Annie Griffiths visited a South African diamond mine for the first time in 1981, she was surrounded by burly male guards who kept eyes on her as they strained to hear the radio report of Princess Diana’s wedding to Prince Charles. But when she visited again in July 2015 to chronicle women’s advancement programs, she found herself instead greeted by proud female entrepreneurs and mining workers.

The women were part of De Beers’ Forevermark programs that support career training and development for women in the communities where it mines. It’s part of a larger sustainability focus aimed at “building forever”—that is, building up communities to be socioeconomically strong even after the local mines are eventually tapped.

“We tend to think of diamonds as something frivolous or symbolic,” admits Griffiths. “I’ve been working in Southern Africa for years and it never occurred to me until I saw it that the diamond business could be a real force for good in the local community.”

She met scores of women including Sophia Mphuthi, an entrepreneur who started her own driving school in Kimberley, South Africa, using money from De Beers’ Zimele fund. De Beers says the fund benefited over 62 South African businesses in 2014, creating over 1,175 jobs in farming, jewelry design and other areas. More than one-third of the people who benefited directly from that funding were women.

Overall De Beers has spent about $28 million on socioeconomic development programs, according to Nicky Black, the company’s head of social performance. Nearly 50,000 people have benefited as a result of the programs, which focus on education, entrepreneurship, health care and

other core concerns. Through the initiative, Forevermark has trained women for careers as miners, geologists, engineers, craftspeople, managers and more. “For the consumer, [forever] connotes these intense eternal emotions,” explains Black. “But for the community, it means sustainable development.

Where will we be in 20 years?”

De Beers is acutely aware that mining communities are dependent on a finite resource, and investing in women and girls ensures a possibilityfilled future. “The science shows that women play a remarkable role as connectors and foundation stones of their communities,” Black says. “When you support a woman you are in turn supporting her family, the community and society.”

It makes business sense, too, Black insists, citing studies that show “if you spend a dollar on a woman’s development you get more bang for your buck than almost any other intervention, including inoculation and sewage.

The actual outcome is greatest, and that’s what ‘forever’ means to us.”

The efforts in South Africa mirror De Beers’ larger focus on building up its female workforce across the world. Women comprise nearly 24 percent of global employees, compared to 16 percent in the mining industry as a whole. “We’re outperforming the industry and we’re pleased by that, but I think everyone would say that’s still not enough,” Black says. “We’re working to change it.”

28

designers

IN 24 HOURS A day in the life of LISA NIK.

E

ach day is different, between road trips, trade shows, days at home, in the office and in the field. The constants are my son Alex, Jack the dog, and planning my next move. Follow me as we shoot the new campaign in Malibu!

7:00 a.m.: This is when I routinely wake up, and as usual, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Alex who wakes me up. Knowing that I will be much better off facing the morning routine head on, I jump out of bed and grab some toys to play with during the morning change-and-

feed routine. I then feed Jack (our dog), and start the morning pot of coffee.

8:00 a.m.: By this time, I load up the car and head over to the photo studio. Everything has been prepared in advance, so my main concern is being mentally focused on capturing each look in the collection with the femininity and elegance that I always want the brand to represent. Alex usually falls into a deep sleep in the car, which gives me the time I need to really

30

concentrate on the concepts we are going to bring to life throughout the day.

9:00 a.m.: On arrival, and while our model is in hair and makeup, I start attacking my morning emails. Then I make a list of phone calls that I have to make later in the day during breaks.

10:00 a.m.: I have 10 looks scheduled for the day, and considering the hair and makeup changes we must make for each look, it will be a challenge to shoot all 10 by 6:00 p.m.! We choose a slick bun and a side ponytail for some of the looks, depending on the size and scale of the earrings being shown in the shots.

Lunch is always a working lunch, whether we are at a photo shoot, at a store, or at the office. I will either grab a smoothie while answering phone calls and writing emails, or I will have lunch with a client. Alex is usually welcomed by anyone I work with, and I am lucky to be able to take him to work with me on days such as these.

The model for this campaign is Adele Uddo, a highly accomplished hand model. We like to pile on the rings for most of the shots, so that each page can actually showcase a variety of options rather than just one piece on the hands. Somehow, her graceful movements make it possible to include many rings while maintaining elegance.

The goal of the campaign is to appeal to every woman, regardless of age, background, or complexion. I believe we accomplish this with the uncomplicated nature of the makeup, hair and styling of each shot. We want women to feel glamorous, and yet still approachable, while wearing my jewelry.

6:00 p.m.: The end of the day usually arrives before I realize it and I am always shocked by the timeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;I feel it should only be 2:00! If I have missed any calls or emails during the course of the day, I am always diligent about making a list of what needs to happen first the next day so that I avoid falling behind. Customer correspondence is my top business priority, so I just donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t sleep well if I know that someone is waiting for a reply from me. During the photo shoot, we are able to finish on time with all 10 shots and then pack up for the day. I spend some time reviewing each look on the computer to ensure we captured what we need, and then discuss retouching, cropping and logo placement with the team.

8:00 p.m.: Home sweet home. After we get Alex to bed, this is typically the time of day that my husband and I can catch up with each other, find out whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been going on in the world and watch our favorite TV shows together. TV is often the perfect distraction before passing out for the night...and starting the whole routine again the following day.

31

insurance

Take no shortcuts when it comes to safeguarding your treasures.

F

SAFE

or cinephiles, the phrase “jewelry insurance” may conjure up scenes of Cary Grant as a French Riviera cat burglar in To Catch a Thief, trading quips with the austere agent from Lloyd’s of London.

In fact, insuring precious gems may be a tad less glamorous, but certainly a necessity for nearly everyone—not just wealthy dowagers showing off their jewels around a roulette table. It starts when a man decides he’s ready to propose to his sweetheart. From the moment he leaves the jeweler he should have a policy in place covering the cherished engagement ring—even before he plans his elaborate proposal scenario involving the bottom of a Champagne glass or a golf hole.

“Ideally you would receive an appraisal and insure an engagement ring right when you purchase it,” says Trina Woldt, VP and chief marketing officer of Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company, one of the oldest in the business. Most jewelry insurance claims are not due to theft but loss, “which includes accidental loss and mysterious disappearance,” she explains. “That could be anything from the dog eating it to having it fall from cold fingers while shoveling snow. And you’d be surprised how many people lose their rings on their honeymoon because they’re not used to wearing a ring and forget that fingers shrink in water.”

And on the off chance that a dashing cat burglar does enter your home, be advised that your homeowner’s policy might not provide the ideal coverage. It’s also important to note that filing a jewelry claim under your homeowner’s might cause your premium to increase dramatically.

Jeweler’s Mutual plans are comprehensive and cover any kind of loss or damage. Its policies offer to repair or replace a lost item through the jeweler of your choice. In general, specialty jewelry insurance costs about 1 to 2 percent of the value of an item per year, so a $10,000 ring would only cost

BY CHRISTIAN CHENSVOLD

THAN SORRY

$100 to $150 per year to insure. “It’s a really affordable way to safeguard items that have both monetary and emotional value,” says Woldt.

Deductibles can be as low as zero. (Watch insurance is its own category, but operates identically.)

To decide whether you need it for an engagement ring, Grandma’s pearls, or other items, look at each of them and stop to evaluate your instinctive emotional reaction to finding out that they’ve gone missing. The stronger the emotional reaction, the more reason to insure.

For those who want even more peace of mind and are more worried about theft than loss, there’s the option of acquiring a safe in addition to insurance. New York-based Empire Safe is a family business in operation since 1904, catering to both businesses and residences. Empire Safe’s products range in price from $2,500 to $35,000, and are recommended for residences with $100,000 worth of jewelry or more.

Once again, cinephiles with vivid imaginations are probably picturing stealthy thieves with high-tech equipment trying to pick a lock. In truth, what a thief really wants to do is either break open your safe or move it, so avoid an inexpensive one. “Ninety-nine percent of people selling safes don’t deal with high-end clients,” says Empire Safe president Richard Krasilovsky.

“They’re selling safes that can be opened with common tools in the house.”

The primary deterrent is weight. Empire Safe designs apartment safes that weigh 500 pounds and are secured to the floor. “They’re strong and heavy and the objective is to intimidate the burglar so he’ll go to shop elsewhere.” In houses, a ground-floor safe can weigh over 1,000 pounds, come armor-plated on all sides, and offer fire protection as an added bonus.

Because when it comes to your valued keepsakes, do you really want to take chances?

32

IMAGE COURTESY OF PARAMOUNT / THE KOBAL COLLECTION

Better

timepieces

WATCH OUT! Why buying and servicing your timepieces with an authorized dealer is more important than ever.

BY CHRISTIAN CHENSVOLD

I

t’s not hard to avoid obvious knockoffs when it comes to luxury watches. Just be careful you’re not ambushed by a Frankenstein. “Frankenstein” is a new watch industry term rapidly spreading among consumers, who are right to be leery. The term refers to watches that have been spliced together from some parts that are genuine and some that are counterfeit.

Typically made in Asia, they can easily fool the eye—especially of a buyer blinded by the prospect of getting a great deal.

The emergence of Frankenstein watches underscores the importance of buying a fine timepiece from an authorized dealer.

“Buying a watch online is like gambling,” says Michael Pollak of Hyde Park Jewelers. “Sometimes you win, but mostly you lose.”

And when you lose, you lose big, because these fakes often mimic very expensive models. A consumer spotted an $80,000 Audemars Piguet timepiece priced at a mere $40,000, Pollak recalls. But when the buyer sent it to the manufacturer for servicing, it never came back. In its place was a letter explaining that the watch was not genuine and had been confiscated for infringing on the brand’s trademark.

The buyer has no recourse, and even a seller with 100% positive feedback could claim he didn’t know the watch was a Frankenstein. For Pollak, this all comes down to the perennial problem of not knowing a watch’s provenance when buying from an unauthorized dealer. The same thing applies for watches that are stolen. The seller may not even know it, he explains, but once again, as soon as the watch is taken in for servicing, a company such as Rolex will immediately check the serial number against a database of stolen watches. If it comes up as stolen, you’ll never see it again. “According to Rolex, the watch either

belongs to the previous owner, an authorized dealer or the insurance company,” says Pollak. Either way, “It does not belong to you.”

Authorized retailers provide a clear paper trail of a watch’s history, can ensure that a watch comes with a manufacturer’s warranty and that parts are available should it need repair, and provide a trustworthy resource if the customer is dissatisfied for any reason.

You’re also dealing with someone who’s intimately familiar with the brand. “You have the ability to speak with someone who has received the proper training on the brand you are considering,” says Hank B. Siegel of Hamilton Jewelers.

Siegel says his service center sees thousands of watches each year, and the main issues are attractive fakes, genuine cases with fake movements, watches that were originally genuine but have been altered with non-genuine parts, genuine watches with fake warranty papers, watches reported stolen, and finally, watches that are genuine but without proper import documentation and duties paid, which leaves them subject to confiscation.

“The bottom line is, unless you are buying from a retailer explicitly authorized by the watch brand, it’s buyer beware,” says Marc Green of Lux Bond & Green. “Whether from an auction house, website, non-authorized dealer, or anywhere else, there is always the looming question of whether something is genuine.”

Authorized dealers are also imperative when having a watch serviced, as an unauthorized repairman could use counterfeit parts and turn your genuine, papers-and-all watch into a Frankenstein without your knowing it. “Some say authorized service centers are too expensive and take too long,” says Green. “We say you get what you pay for. You may take your Mercedes to the corner garage for a minor adjustment, but not when major parts are needed. With watches, you want them serviced correctly with a guarantee.”

34

True luxury timepieces, like the Chopard Chronometer shown here, can only be purchased from and serviced by authorized retailers.

The superlative-charged chronograph. 50 mm case in Breitlight®. Exclusive Manufacture Breitling Caliber B12 with 24-hour military-style display. Officially chronometer-certified.

timepieces

Desperately Seeking

DAYTONA What one young business exec wouldn’t do for the newest ROLEX…

BY JARROD WEBER

M

y first recollection of a Rolex Daytona was this beautiful stainless steel work of art on my father’s wrist.

Although I was too tied up with school, sports and dating to truly focus on watches, I couldn’t help but admire the pure beauty of this magnificent timepiece. Never since have I seen a watch I admired as much.

So of course I felt tremendous joy when, upon graduating law school, my parents placed two green boxes with gold crown logos on our kitchen table. “Mom and I are so

proud of you,” my dad said, somewhat choked up. “We think you’ve earned your first Rolex.” He then opened both boxes: in the first was a brand new Rolex Daytona, the other contained the Daytona I’d always admired on his wrist. He asked which I wanted. I immediately chose my father’s for its sentimental value.

I can’t think of any possession I’ve ever had or will ever have that means more to me than that Daytona. I’m sure that at the right time, my son will acquire this priceless family keepsake.

But for right now, I want, I need, I crave, I simply must have the new Rolex Daytona with black dial and ceramic bezel. Ever since the extreme buzz surrounding its release at the Baselworld Watch Fair in March, I’ve been relentless in trying to figure out how to acquire this elusive prize. Most say there’s a five-year wait list... I can’t wait five weeks, let alone five years!

The Daytona was the Rolex model first given out to winners at the Rolex 24 at Daytona Speedway. At some point in time, Paul Newman (himself a motorsports enthusiast and race car driver) started wearing it, and from then on, watch aficionados, collectors and guys in the know wanted nothing else.

Since its launch in the 1960s, the watch has gone through a number of redesigns, all of which are now collector’s items that have appreciated significantly in value. The modern Daytona as we know it was released in the late 1980s; at that time, Rolex outsourced the movement to Zenith. In 2000, Rolex developed the capability to make the chronograph movement in house. They also made small cosmetic changes to the face of the watch (on the black dial, the sub-dials became silver rather than white; on the white dial, the sub-dials were also silver rather than black). For either dial option, purchasing a Rolex Daytona has become a dance of persuasion, persistence and finesse, convincing dealers to sell you one out of the maybe two or three watches they’ve been allotted.

The release this year of the new stainless steel Daytona is the first significant design change since the ’80s. The bezel is now made of Cerachrom material that’s virtually scratch-resistant to ensure longevity.

The sub-dials on the white dial are now black rather than silver, offering a bold contrast recalling Paul Newman’s iconic timepiece of yesteryear.

Everyone wants one. All are told to put their names on the list. It’s an undisclosed list with obscure criteria: Are you famous? Are you quasi-

36

famous? Will you be photographed in the watch? With whom? People are determined to figure this out.

I’ve been on the hunt, calling dealers throughout the Tri-State area as well as across the country. Since Rolex authorized dealers are not permitted to ship out of state, a buyer needs to purchase in person. I’ve researched the home state of my alma mater (Michigan) discovering cities I didn’t know existed (to which I’ll be traveling if they call me!). My wife is Romanian and fluent in the language;

she’s phoned her home country and I believe I’m top of the list in Bucharest.

Yesterday, my father and I attended a Rolex Daytona event. We tried on the watch and I’m more committed than ever to finding it. I’m on their wait list, but they were not all that encouraging. Leaving the event, I texted my wife: “Isn’t it time you visit your family in Romania?”

(Editor’s note: Jarrod wrote this essay hoping it would move him up on the list. Sorry Jarrod, but you’ll have to wait in line with the rest of us!)

“

The Daytona was the Rolex model first given out to winners at the Rolex 24 at Daytona Speedway. At some point in time, Paul Newman started wearing it, and from then on, watch aficionados, collectors and guys in the know wanted nothing else.

’’

Left to right: Cosmograph Daytona in Yellow Rolesor, Cosmograph Daytona in 18K Everrose Gold with Leather Strap, Cosmograph Daytona in 18K Yellow Gold

37

timepieces

John Travolta wore Breitling at a boutique opening.

Dan Stevens wore Baume & Mercier at British GQ’s Men of the Year Awards.

Chris Pratt wore Panerai at the Golden Globe Awards.

CelebrityWATCH A timely look at men’s style. BY JILLIAN LAROCHELLE

Patrick Dempsey wore TAG Heuer at the Monaco Grand Prix.

Eddie Redmayne wore Omega at the opening night party for the 2016 Rio Olympics.

38

from the

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RUNWAY IMAGES COURTESY OF ACCESSORIES MAGAZINE

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launches

THE SEAMASTER PLANET OCEAN DEEP BLACK COLLECTION I

n our universe, the Earth’s oceans are naturally linked to the moon in our sky. At Omega, the connection can also be found in its latest ceramic collection. From the Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon that was first released in 2013, Omega has evolved its ceramic expertise to produce the Seamaster Planet Ocean Deep Black. And this time, the craftsmanship has gone much further.

These four remarkable 45.5mm timepieces are the combination of a GMT model and a diving watch. The true technical challenge was to produce a diving watch made entirely from ceramic and ensure that it could withstand the pressures of the ocean to a depth of 600 meters / 2,000 feet / 60 bar. Impressively, the goal has been achieved, and the result is a stateof-the-art creation that stands alone in the industry.

10 UNIQUE FEATURES OF THE DEEP BLACK COLLECTION: • In a first for the Planet Ocean, the case body of each Deep Black model has been crafted from a single block of ceramic. The same material is also used for the unidirectional bezels, as well as the dials that feature new Arabic numerals.

• On the black and 18K Sedna™ gold models, the ceramic cases and dials have been polished for a glossy effect. The blue and red versions are brushed for a matte effect that offers better visibility underwater.

• A new GMT ring has been fixed on the dial, while the diving scale sits on the ceramic bezel using Liquidmetal® or Omega Ceragold™.

• For the black model, Liquidmetal® was also used to create the He symbol on the helium valve and Omega symbol on the crown. On the blue and red models, these two features are colored using a rubber injection.

• For the first time, rubber has been blended with ceramic to create a

unique bezel. On the blue and red models, this colorful innovation can be seen covering the first 15 minutes. Another useful feature for divers.

• In another remarkable first, Omega has created an oriented case back so that the engraved wording sits perfectly in position. This has been achieved through Omega’s new and patented ceramic Naiad Lock. The alveol design of the case back also offers an aesthetically appealing wave pattern.

• Why the colors? Imagine you are descending below the waves of the ocean. At 5 meters, the first color that is no longer visible is red. That means that this “military” diver’s watch will gain a camouflage advantage by gradually matching your wetsuit. Go deeper to 275 meters and the last color you’ll see, based on light penetration, is the exact shade of blue found on the blue Deep Black model. Finally, at a depth of 300 meters, the ocean will turn black. The 18K Sedna™ gold model is a lifestyle piece built for people who enjoy time on deck.

• The hands and indexes of the watches are created from 18K Sedna™ gold or 18K white gold. They are coated in white Super-LumiNova that emits green and blue colors.

• The black rubber straps have been designed to give the appearance of being fabric. They feature contrasting stitching and have also been treated with an anti-bacterial coating. A wave pattern can be found on the underside. On the Sedna™ gold model, the strap is water-resistant leather, with the same anti-bacterial rubber underside. The foldover clasp is made from ceramized titanium, while the clasp cover has been produced in ceramic with two types of finishing.

• The timepieces in the Deep Black collection are driven by the Omega Master Chronometer calibre 8906. Resistant to magnetic fields of 15,000 gauss, each watch has passed the eight tests set by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS). This higher standard of precision and performance is in addition to traditional COSC certification. The watch comes with a four-year warranty.

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BRIDAL

SHUTTERSTOCK

A SPECIAL WEDDING SECTION FROM ACCENT MAGAZINE

bridal

Wedding planning can be an emotional roller coaster. We asked licensed marriage and family therapist Marissa Nelson for advice on how to stay calm and enjoy

10TIPS

this special time in your life.

BY LAURIE SCHECHTER

TOP

OW TO DEAL WITH DIFFICULT IN-LAWS: Remember, marriage is a transition for everyone. Relationships improve with time, effort and shared experiences. Be patient, be kind, and most important, don’t take things personally.

HOW TO MANAGE CONFLICT IN YOUR BRIDAL PARTY: If you are unhappy with a bridesmaid’s actions, express yourself, says Nelson. Calmly talk to your friend about what you needed from her, how she upset or disappointed you, and how together you can move forward.

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR PARENTS DON’T LIKE YOUR FIANCÉ: Sit down with your parents without your other half. Clarify what their concerns are. Let them know that, while you understand, they should trust the way they raised you, Nelson advises. And remind them you know what’s best for you. Build respect and work towards acceptance through open lines of communication.

HOW TO NAVIGATE WHO DOES AND DOESN’T MAKE THE GUEST LIST: It’s important to look around the room on your wedding day and have all the people that you love and have a bond with there, celebrating with you, says Nelson. Uninvited guests may be upset, but stick to your guns.

Choose people because they’re special to you, not out of obligation.

HOW TO GET YOUR GROOM INVOLVED: Your fiancé can contribute in different ways. Some give financial or emotional support. Others help closer to the wedding day, running errands or picking people up from the airport.

Engage your fiancé so he feels his contribution matters, says Nelson. And don’t get upset if he isn’t involved in exactly the way you imagined.

HOW TO KEEP THE PLANNING AS FUN AS THE WEDDING DAY: This wedding is a reflection of your personality and vision, so have fun and get

creative with unique touches that reflect who you are as a couple, says Nelson. Be silly. Enjoy being a bride and take it easy. This is time for pampering, and excitement about the future as a Mrs. HOW TO DEAL WITH LAST-MINUTE NERVES: Nerves are to be expected as you step into this new phase of your life. But don’t let those thoughts spiral to overwhelming you. Call on your bridesmaids or maid of honor to rally around you, with love, to calm you and assure you everything is going to be okay.

HOW TO BE TRUE TO YOUR WEDDING DREAM EVEN IF OTHERS WANT SOMETHING ELSE: Being true to who you are as a couple means having a clear vision for your day, maintaining boundaries and keeping a united front. Know which wedding details are non-negotiable and which you are willing to compromise on, so that your family can be included in the process, suggests Nelson.

HOW NOT TO FEEL OVERWHELMED EVEN WITHOUT A WEDDING PLANNER: Don’t try to take on every task by yourself or suffer in silence with a long to-do list. The key word is delegate. Have a team of friends and family that you trust to help execute your wedding vision. Most importantly, says Nelson, take everything one day at a time.

SINGLE BEST ADVICE FOR THE WEDDING DAY: Detach yourself from the idea of perfection. You are stepping into and preparing for marriage. If some things don’t go as planned, it’s okay. Be present. Soak in all that is a day to celebrate love.

Marissa Nelson is a licensed marriage and family therapist, an AASECT certified therapist and the founder of IntimacyMoons Couples & Singles Retreats.

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SHUTTERSTOCK

H

FOR BIG-DAY BLISS

weddings

A Bachendorf’s Love Story

Here’s how Elissa and Chris me and fell for each other: Chris graduated from Southern Methodist University and majored in engineering.

He works at Lockheed Martin. Elissa majored in advertising at SMU, and is now a marketing brand manager at McCathern Law Firm in Dallas. When the two first locked eyes, the connection was immediate. Chris lived next door to Elissa’s best friend Alexandra. (Alexandra also happened to work with Chris’s best

friend from high school.) The group of mutual friends decided to venture out to Frankie’s Sports Bar for happy hour on a Friday night in 2010. Elissa had to leave early and didn’t get to talk much to Chris, but she told her friend that she thought he was cute before heading home. Two weeks later, Elissa and Alexandra went to a crawfish boil. Alexandra texted Chris and told him to come, and it surprised Elissa when he walked in. They spent the rest of the party together getting to know each other. When the party ended, Alexandra claimed she “didn’t have room” for Elissa in her car, so Chris offered to take her home. They stopped by Mi Cocina, shared fajitas, and decided to end the night at Frankie’s.

The rest is history. Chris proposed on bended knee at Turtle Creek with the beautiful ring they designed together at Bachendorf’s, and they married on October 17, 2015 at Arlington Hall at Lee Park.

Elissa and Chris had a very clear vision of what they wanted for their wedding: There would be an outdoor ceremony at twilight (the groom's favorite time of day), a seated dinner indoors (at the request of the bride's mother), simplicity and elegance in design—and a fun dance party! Their October 17, 2015 wedding at Arlington Hall at Lee Park fulfilled their wishes and was dotted with personal, thoughtful touches. Each element of their wedding was carefully thought out and chosen with meaning and emotion.

Elissa and Chris shared their first kiss on the overlook at Snyder's Union on the Katy Trail. Taking the nearby steps down to the Turtle Creek walking path was where Chris proposed four years later, on bended knee with the magnificent, traditional ring they had designed together, so their choice of venue evoked memories of happiness and excitement.

The ceremony took place at 5:30 p.m. at the Pavilion, which was simply adorned with smilax vine woven into the top. Guests commented on the pretty, natural park setting and lush greenery, which allowed for the bride's stunning gown, glittering with Swarovski crystals and opulent pearls, the bridesmaids’ charcoal gray dresses, and the beautiful white bouquets to take center stage. The clear blue sky was illuminated with soft, white clouds and a gentle breeze had the bride's mid-length veil fluttering and dancing throughout the ceremony. To add to this magical setting, the officiant, Rabbi Lev Baesh, had the guests, while still standing, close their eyes to capture and experience this exquisite, special moment in time.

Chirping crickets in the background added to the charming ambience.

After the ceremony, guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and cocktails on the outdoor terrace at Arlington Hall, including the bride and groom's signature drinks—a Moscow Mule for the bride and an Old Fashioned for the groom.

Guests were then ushered into the ballroom resplendent in the couple's color scheme of charcoal gray, silver and white. The all-white flowers featured snowy jewel roses, snowflake spray roses and Dutch hydrangeas, and an abundance of flickering candles added the final touches for this classically elegant décor. DJ Andy Austin played their meticulously chosen repertoire of music, which ranged

46

from The Foo Fighters to Madonna and everything in between, with much dancing and celebrating well into the evening. Glow necklaces and wands were handed out as the lighting cued everyone to hit the dance floor—if they weren’t there already.

To add an element of fun for their guests, Elissa and Chris knew they wanted to have a photo booth, which was set up just outside next to the expansive veranda, where some of the guests were also seated.

Matte silver designer photo booth frames served as guests’ place cards and favors.

It was very important to this thoughtful couple that they had time to greet and spend a few moments with all of their guests, so they took advantage of Arlington Hall's gracious offer to serve them dinner in the Bride's Room immediately following the ceremony. The bride enjoyed blackened snapper with roasted pepper butter sauce, and the groom had a filet of beef with sofrito and paprika demi glace along with salad, crisps, lahvosh and fine wine—and of course, a celebratory glass of Champagne. This ensured that they were able to visit every table and say hello to each family member and friend as the guests ate. The groom was especially happy to talk with the parents of some of his childhood friends he had not seen in years!

And, at the end of a fairytale evening, the happy couple exited Arlington Hall amidst bubbles and applause and were whisked away in an oldfashioned horse and carriage.

The most sentimental and personal element of this special weekend occurred privately after the rehearsal dinner. Elissa was shocked to answer the door of her bridal suite at the lovely Warwick Melrose Hotel to find the best man standing there with a stuffed monkey dressed in a beautiful white wedding gown, a silver horseshoe necklace and designer sunglasses! Yes, the groom had actually gone to Build A Bear and made Monk E. Rex for Elissa.

When squeezed, she says, "I love you and can't wait to spend the rest of my life with you!”

Why? Because from the beginning of their relationship, Chris's pet name for Elissa has been monkey. There's a story behind that, but suffice it to say the characteristics of a monkey being strong and quick and holding hands with affection certainly suit Elissa! The pretty horseshoe necklace was for good luck, in hopes that their wedding day would be exactly as they envisioned. The monkey held a single white rose in her other hand.

With their picture-perfect wedding in the books, Elissa has some advice to offer future brides: Make sure you take time to take care of yourself! Wedding planning can be overwhelming at times and you just need to take a step back and relax. Realize what it's all about, why you are planning this meaningful event. It's easy to lose yourself in the details and in other people's opinions and forget what is most important. It's all about you and your hubby-to-be. Don't stress, just smile and enjoy. It will be over before you know it!

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bridal

Propose with one of these trending styles and post the good news!

#SHESAIDYES

BY LORRAINE DEPASQUE

A FEW FAVORITE CUTS Perhaps celebrity engagements (Blake Lively, Julianne Hough) have played a role in its popularity, for never in recent times has the oval been so in demand. “This fancy diamond cut is one way a bride can have something out of the ordinary,” says Guttery, “and depending on how the stone is cut it can really elongate the finger and look very graceful on your hand.”

Nonetheless, according to The Knot’s study, 49% of modern brides still prefer the traditional round, while princess cuts come in as second most popular.

GEM AND METAL COLORS TO LOVE If you do decide on a classic round center diamond, another way to differentiate is by choosing a stone other than a white diamond. “Colored

gems are in vogue for bridal,” says Guttery, “especially ruby, emerald and all shades of sapphire.” He mentions aquamarine, too. Light blue gems and pink stones have notably become more sought-after in bridal since the Pantone Color Institute named Serenity (a pastel blue) and Rose Quartz (a light pink) as the 2016 Colors of the Year.

A pink gemstone set in rose gold is a beautiful, feminine, tone-on-tone look. Just the same, says Baillie, “Our latest research shows that 68% of brides still want 18K or 14K white gold for their wedding rings.” That said, more and more, as women look for artisanal flair, they’re buying yellow gold, reports Guttery. “Specifically, rich and buttery 18-karat. The glow it gives off is radiating, and the textures and patterns in yellow gold look great.”

DESIGN ’N DETAIL Whether in the precious-metal surface of your wedding ring, the prongs and bezels holding the gems, or the overall aesthetic, today’s bride is looking for detail, Guttery emphasizes. “Even if a ring itself is simple, the head may have scrollwork, a shank might have an unusual pattern of pavé diamonds and cutouts, or the focus gem may be held by artistic prongs.

Also, a lot of today’s designers are re-interpreting elements from past eras—Edwardian or Deco, for example—and incorporating them into their signature bridal styles. Something I’m definitely noticing is more ornate scrollwork.”

One last thing: Before you begin your search for that once-in-a-lifetime ring, be sure to ask your jeweler about two-stone designs, including bypass styles. It’s a retro silhouette that’s made its way into modern bridal—and lots of (soon-to-be) engaged women are falling in love with it.

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IMAGES COURTESY OF HARRY KOTLAR, RAHAMINOV, PENNY PREVILLE

W

hite, yellow, or rose gold? Round, square, or cushion cut?

Classic, modern, or vintage style? When deciding on an engagement ring and wedding band, the choices may seem overwhelming. “We found that one bride-to-be went online and actually looked at 3,800 engagement rings in one day,” chuckles Bernadette Baillie, director of education for TheKnot.com. “That’s huge dedication!” Baillie recalls the story while discussing the results of her popular wedding site’s 2016 Luxury Bridal Jewelry & Engagement Ring Study, for which The Knot surveyed 13,000 Millennial couples. To help get your own research underway, we also spoke with jewelry expert Benjamin G. Guttery about what’s trending in wedding ring designs, diamond cuts and colors, precious metals and more. Guttery, a GIA graduate/jewelry trend forecaster/brand advocate, is also founder of the blog Third Coast Gems.

© Forevermark 2016. Forevermark®,

® and

™ are Trade Marks of The De Beers Group of Companies.

It’s a long journey to become the one.

In our constant pursuit of absolute beauty, every Forevermark diamond undergoes a journey of rigorous selection.

This is why less than 1% of the world’s diamonds are worthy of the Forevermark inscription – our promise of beauty, rarity and responsible sourcing.

proposals

YOU’VE FOUND THE ONE. YOU’VE BOUGHT THE RING.

NOW, CAPTURE THE MOMENT!

F

ounded in 2011, Paparazzi Proposals is America’s leading engagement proposal photography company.

Former paparazzo James Ambler was inspired to create the company when proposing to his wife and thinking: “Wouldn’t it be cool if someone was capturing this moment?” The rest of the nation agreed and, five years later, Paparazzi Proposals has photographed over 3,000 proposals. Capturing genuine emotions and raw reactions, its goal is to make that once-in-a-lifetime moment last forever.

Initially launched in just a few major cities, Paparazzi Proposals is currently in 34 cities nationwide. It has been featured on Shark Tank, The Today Show, The Insider, Pix 11 Morning News, CBS Sunday Mornings, and many more.

The process is simple: After you decide on a location and proposal plan, Paparazzi Proposals takes care of the rest. With a team of proposal experts and skillfully trained photographers, the company has helped thousands of guys and girls plan and execute picture-perfect proposals, capturing it all in photos without intruding on the intimacy or privacy of the moment. No proposal is too big or small, and Paparazzi Proposals is more invested in the moments—the real moments.

In partnership with Bachendorf’s Jewelers, receive $100 off a Paparazzi Proposals photography package by purchasing one of our beautiful engagement rings!

And parents, as well as giving your blessing, why not gift the happy couple with something you can all cherish?

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bridal

Out of THE BOX

Personalize your special day by throwing away the rule book.

BY JULIANNE PEPITONE

THE PARTY DOESN’T STOP HERE

ALTERNATIVE TREATS TAKE THE CAKE Artfully arranged cupcake towers became the trendiest way to ditch the wedding cake a few years ago, but now all kinds of alternatives exist—many of which don’t include cake at all.

Donut towers: Like a Little Black Dress, this cake alternative can be dressed up or down: stacks of apple cider donuts with milk for a cozy-casual fall wedding, or carefully constructed towers of ganache-iced confections alongside espresso at more elegant affairs. Donut towers can look more traditional, too: Philadelphia-based Federal Donuts constructs displays of its treats on a tiered stand and adds decorative elements like flowers and ribbons, if desired.

Ice cream: Think DIY sundae bars packed with toppings like decadent fudge and buttery toffee bits. Or build-it-yourself ice cream sandwich tables with loads of flavor options and gooey cookies to mix and match. For a pricier but super-fun treat, hire a good old ice cream truck to roll up as the celebration winds down. Tipsy Cones is a grown-up version of the Mr. Softee truck, offering alcoholic flavors like whiskey mash, drunken French toast and watermelon mojito ice.

Throwback treats: Yes, weddings are about joining together as adults, but dessert inspires pure childlike joy. Los Angeles’ Cake Monkey specializes in gourmet versions of childhood faves like Ho Hos, Oreos and Little Debbies, whipped up with high-quality ingredients like bittersweet chocolate and fleur de sel.

The wedding was perfect, the reception was a blast… and now, the DJ is packing up as the venue staff turns on all the lights. It’s a bummer when the party comes to a close, but the fun doesn’t have to stop there. Planned wedding after-parties are on the rise, but informal post-nuptial hangouts are an easy way to keep the revelry going past midnight.

A simple option: Rent space at a bar that’s within walking distance of the reception venue. Beach brides and grooms might invite guests to a post-bash bonfire, while winter couples can host a cozy s’moresroasting session with spiked coffee.

Massachusetts teacher Jessica Dougherty and her husband Kerry opted to plan a post-wedding bowling session, complete with custom “Team Jerry” shirts, for their special day. They chose Point Lookout Resort in Maine specifically because the complex offered loads of fun options on the grounds, and they wanted to help create a full weekend getaway for their guests.

“It was so funny to see the pairings—my high school friend’s husband bowling with Kerry’s friend from Italy,” Dougherty said.

“But the real point was to have some downtime with the people who mean the most to us. I know it sounds a little corny, but we wanted the love, the moment, to last as long as possible.”

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ANYTHING GOES Rigid wedding-party rules once required matchymatchy dresses and an equal number of ’maids and ’men. But selecting the party is meant to honor the people in your life, regardless of gender, age or any centuries-old guidelines. Now, anything goes: a “bridesman,” “best woman,” or “man of honor,” and the 89-year-old who served as a bridesmaid in her granddaughter’s Pennsylvania wedding last year.

Burberry employee Katelyn Venezia, 30, opted to forgo the traditional wedding party altogether for her July 2016 nuptials—but she still honored her closest friends, sans fuss.

“I didn’t want them to feel pressure or strings attached,” Venezia explains. “I felt the practice of getting everyone together to try on dresses and then having them spend hundreds on something they won’t wear again was outdated.”

So she wrote 10 girlfriends letters thanking them for their friendship and explaining her plan: she wanted the group to get ready together the morning of the wedding, but there would be no formal procession down the aisle and no matching gowns. The cards included an inspiration board, and Venezia invited each woman to choose her own dress for the wedding in one of those colors.

“I wanted to let the girls know they are so special to me,” she says. “That’s what’s important— the friendships, not the bridesmaid dress.”

bridal

natural

Wedding hair is having a boho moment.

BY JILLIAN LAROCHELLE

WONDERS TOP TRENDS When asked what today’s brides are requesting most, hairstylist Emily Carcaramo of Once Upon a Bride doesn’t hesitate. “Natural, natural, natural!” she replies.

Carcaramo, who also styles celebrities for editorial and television appearances, always encourages brides to consider textured updos or half-up styles for longevity purposes. “But for those brides set on wearing their hair down, go for natural-looking waves. And no matter how thick your hair is, I suggest adding extensions so the volume translates for your photos and doesn’t fall flat halfway through the festivities.”

Angelo David, who styles hair on-location for celebs like Coco Rocha and Christie Brinkley as well as in his eponymous NYC salon, couldn’t agree more.

“Many women wish they had thicker hair, and on their wedding of all days, they should feel like the best version of themselves. We can match Couture Extensions to your hair so you look like yourself, only better, and your style will hold up all day.”

While messy, piecey hair can look great in photos, brides getting married outdoors should avoid having too many loose strands. (Same goes for brides who have outdoor photo sessions scheduled before or after the ceremony.) You never know when a gust of wind might come along and turn your style from boho to bedhead.

In! Natural Texture Out: Pageant-Perfect Ringlets In! Over-Ear Embellishments

Out: Princess Tiaras

In! Budding Blooms Out: Birdcage Veils 54

LEAVE IT TO THE PROS Though “undone” hairstyles may look effortless, they’re often anything but. Many actually comprise several intricate steps and are best left to a trained professional. Even if you consider yourself a whiz with the hot tools, this is one time you should call for backup.

Kate Middleton famously did her own makeup for her April 2011 wedding to Prince William, but she knew enough to trust the pros with her tresses on that allimportant day.

TOP IMAGE COURTESY OF CLAIRE PETTIBONE, INSET IMAGES COURTESY OF DAVID’S BRIDAL

LOCATION, LOCATION

food

NUEVO

MEXICO Zarandeado adobo-marinated sea bass, charcoal grilled with Miraflores ratatouille

O

We’re not talking about the state of

ne thousand miles south of San Acapulco first inspired him, ensuring that Diego, I’m seated at the marble bar of today his ingredients all grow within 100 the Hilton Los Cabos’ El Meson miles of his kitchen. restaurant (a farm-to-fork and sea-to-table food spot), where I’m chopping a potpourri of Why did you decide to work in ingredients for what will be lunch—a unique Cabo when your training could guest experience the hotel can arrange upon have gotten you a job anywhere? request. Before me is a basket overflowing I can imagine tremendous places like Paris with the freshest ingredients I’ve ever seen, for and New York, where you can bring in the a tortilla soup and guacamole. I know how best-quality products, but I have farmers who

BY SHIRA LEVINE fresh the produce is because only two hours have a lot of love for their products. I gain earlier I hand-picked the cilantro, radishes, creativity from that. tomatoes, peppers, arugula, corn, edible wildflowers and a dozen other delights from Can you give me an example? the verdant, fertile grounds of the Huerta Tiky When I saw the zucchini flowers today my Cabo farm alongside Chef Mauricio Lopez. imagination was like, “I can do this, and this As the Hilton’s post-Hurricane Odile and this.” I’m really impressed with how the culinary asset, Mexico’s celebrity chef brings a farmers worry about the products; they love culinary genius with a heavy helping of them. So I care very much about all the great sustainability to his mixing bowls. Rather than ingredients I have in front of me. I love when I focus on flying in fine products from far-flung hear, “Chef, I have a new product for you; you locations, he’s got farmer Gilberto Verdugo need to use it in your dishes!” The farmers just over an hour away, beyond the Sierra de la give me ideas; they say, “Do it roasted.” And Giganta in Miraflores. Chef Lopez sources the then that gets my imagination working, a fruits (and vegetables) of Verdugo’s labors to revolution in my mind. prepare uniquely tasty menus for guests who’ve included Selena Gomez, Justin Bieber, Adam Sandler…and me.

Tell me about your food memories from Acapulco.

While gathering greens with the sweet-faced, crinkly eyed chef, I When my abuela started cooking, the house smelled delicious—steaks got to know the man whose abuela’s kitchen back in his hometown of with cumin, onions, garlic, pepper. She would let me smell the pan. We

New Mexico, but rather a reimagined look at Mexico’s cuisine that’s haute

enough to tantalize the palate. Here, we chat with a leader in the kitchen, CHEF MAURICIO LOPEZ.

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A DIAMOND AS RARE AS YOU

children thought it was meatballs. She would tell us to go outside because she wanted it to be a mystery. I would look to see the ingredients and then imagine the seeds, the onion, the garlic and the cumin that she put into it.

What would be your last supper?

Do you cook for your grandma and your mom now?

How does she make them for you?

I was born in Acapulco so I like my resources. I like to be on the ocean and catch and make my food. I also like cheese, prosciutto and pasta. I love pasta more than enchiladas—and I like enchiladas. But the truth?

Sopes made by my wife.

Simple: corn, a little oil, salsa, cheese, onions and cream. That’s it! That makes me happy! No salmon.

No foie gras. No caviar. Sopes.

They love how I cook because I show them how they can make another kind of preparation with their recipes.

And when you are feeling fancy, what do you like?

How old were you when you started cooking?

Seventeen. I was one of 15 kids trained to be future chefs for a high-end company. I was one of two guys from Mexico. I won the contest when I was 19 and they sent me to Cancun to start my new life. I trained two-and-half years from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. with three chefs from Asia and France. Now I create my own style of cuisine.

Margarita

Foie gras of course. Also the seafood in Italy, the carbonara pasta in Rome. They use what I love: tomatoes, oil, garlic, basil. That’s it. Simple and easy.

That is your food philosophy: easy, delicious, clean and fresh.

How would you describe your food?

Yes. I have the ocean before me. I have fish. I add the ingredients, what’s in front of me. I don’t have to go to Europe for foie gras, or to Chile for salmon. Everything is here!

A little of everything. I like Italian food. Mexican was one of the last cuisines that I learned. I like simple freshness. I like farm-to-table.

What is an ingredient you don’t have that you want?

You don’t always keep it simple. You got very detailed in your collaboration with the Hilton’s Eforea Spa and its director, Adriana Tello.

When I saw the inside of the spa I saw the little tables, and all the little brushes and bottles, and I thought, “I can do something like this with food.” My chefs can do something very special right in front of the guests, with stations and little details, a food menu that reflects the spa.

I don’t need anything else, I have everything. Why do I need caviar if I have really good, fresh fish here? I have really good tuna! Japanese come here to Mexico for our tuna.

You studied with great chefs and mentors. What is the greatest lesson you’ve learned?

The best, most important and unique ingredient that I can put on my plate is love.

NORTH OF THE BORDER Wall or no wall, Mexican food culture will continue to influence cuisine here in the United States. The best Mexican-inspired eats are undeniably delicious and increasingly authentic, fresh and local for those who prefer maiz over flour, and are in the cilantro-isdelicious camp. I ate at thoughtfully menued restaurants across the U.S. and found a few special spots where you can get your buen provecho on.

In coastal Alabama, dishes get innovative in order to keep things local. At Chef Chris Sherrill’s FLORA-BAMA YACHT CLUB, the lionfish nachos and a catfish ceviche with red snapper cracklin’ give the menu some south-of-the-border flair. James Beard semifinalist Chef Bill Briand, of FISHER’S ORANGE BEACH, fuses Latin flavors into his blue crab claws, marinated in a charred corn vinaigrette with pickled chiles, cilantro and smoked paprika.

In Pittsburgh, Chef Dave Racicot’s TÄKO boasts grilled pork shoulder tacos al pastor with roasted pineapple and avocado salsa.

My favorite? Tacos Täko: grilled octopus with harissa aioli, preserved lemon and mizuna greens and herbs.

The Hawaiian island of Oahu’s fine food scene embraces its multi-culti diversity by using local poke and ahi as base ingredients.

At BUHO COCINA Y CANTINA, the Mexican spicy tuna bites take ahi to the next level with spiced serrano chili, chipotle aioli and a tomatillo habanero dressing. At the Four Seasons at Ko’Olina’s brand-new FISH HOUSE, Chef Martin Knaubert’s Mexican corn forever seduces palates, and the chicharon-style duck with Portuguese sausage fried rice is not to be missed.

Don’t mess with a foodie’s taco night! At SPOON & STABLE in Minneapolis, Chef Gavin Kaysen’s North Loop restaurant is the food spot du jour come Saturday night. The former Daniel Boulud protégé’s tacos out-dazzle fancy food trucks with mouthwatering filling options: octopus tacos with cranberry beans, and red mole duck with ramp salsa and fried cheese curds.

58

Know Your Diamond CARAT WEIGHT

COLOR GRADE

CLARITY GRADE

CUT GRADE

Look for diamonds graded by GIA, the creator of the 4Cs. Learn more at 4Cs.GIA.edu

CARLSBAD

ANTWERP

BANGKOK

DUBAI

GABORONE

HONG KONG

JOHANNESBURG

LONDON

MUMBAI

NEW YORK

RAMAT GAN

SEOUL

TAIPEI

TOKYO

wine

SPARKLING DIVERSIONS

FRANCIACORTA, Italy’s “secret” sparkling wine.

I

n recent years, Americans have developed a renewed passion for sparkling wines beyond Champagne. While Italy is best known for Prosecco, Lambrusco and

BY ROBERT HAYNES-PETERSON Moscato, people are now discovering Franciacorta, a more complex sibling.

Made in the metodo classico (or “Champagne method”), where secondary fermentation—the bubble part—occurs in the bottle rather than in steel tanks, bottles age at least 25 months for non-vintage and at least 37 months for vintage or millesimato wines before they are released. The Franciacorta DOCG (a region designated for control and quality of production) lies in Lombardy at the base of the Alps in northern Italy. Elegant, rustic vineyards stand on low slopes and broad valleys below daunting dolomitic Alpine peaks.

Sparse trees, gravelly limestone soils and crystal clear lakes reflect the (relatively) cool weather conditions perfect for making bright, tart bubblies commonly evoking hints of pear, papaya, grapefruit and apple.

“Franciacorta gives much of the same wonderment of brioche and hazelnut aromas as Champagne, but with refreshing hints of citrus, and a persistent effervescence,” notes wine educator Keith Beavers of VinePair.com. Beavers was part of a nationwide series of “Bubble Boot Camp” seminars this year organized by CitySip.com, of which one was a multi-day “Fun With Franciacorta” event in New York City.

Though Italians and Romans have been making still wines in this part of Lombardy for millennia, sparkling wine is a newcomer: winemaker Franco Ziliani produced the first 3,000 bottles in 1961 while working for Count Guido Berlucchi (credited with dubbing wine “Franciacorta” for the first time). The appellation achieved DOC status in 1967 and DOCG in 1995. Today a number of stellar brands are available, notably Bellavista, Ca’ del Bosco and Berlucchi. Many wine writers and sommeliers consider Franciacorta Italy’s best sparkling wine and the one that, like Champagne, can cellar for years or decades.

“With a total production that is only 1/20th of the production of Champagne and 1/30th of the production of Prosecco, Franciacorta will continue to focus on a natural approach to the winemaking process, and quality over quantity,” says Giulio Galli, managing director of TMT USA, which imports Bellavista. “We see an evolution where sparkling wines are no longer relegated to celebratory occasions, but are consumed in many different situations by a growing number of people.”

Not everything elegant needs cost an arm and a leg: most Franciacortas are nonvintage, ranging between $15 and $35. But if it’s luxury expressions you seek, you have options. The Ca’ del Bosco Annamaria Cleminti Rosé ($100) is made from 100% Pinot Noir grapes from 30-plus-year-old vines, with all steps of vinification and aging taking place in oak casks. And last year, Bellavista released a limited magnum opus (in magnum bottles) called Meraviglioso. The blend of six premium vintages from over the past 30 years will run you between $500 and $800 a bottle—if you can find one.

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PerfectGEMS

Explore the little luxuries the world has to offer.

BY BRIAN SCOTT LIPTON

BALI HIGH

As if lolling on the sandy beaches of Bali wasn’t enough to lure you to this tropical paradise, the Ritz Carlton Bali has added another temptation.

Their special Sarong Concierge, Tresna Dewi, will take guests on a halfday journey that includes seeing samples of local textiles used to make sarongs, visiting an artisan workshop to witness the behind-the-scenes production process of Endek (Bali’s capital’s official cloth), getting an etiquette lesson on how to wear and walk elegantly in the garment, and then visiting a nearby Hindu temple, clad in their sarongs, where they can take in the site’s beautiful décor and hand carvings. Is there a better way to be a local culture vulture?

THE GOLD STANDARD We already know how lovely gold can look on your neck, wrists or ears, but it turns out it’s even better on your face. Euphorie Cosmetics’ Le Royal Luxury 24K Gold skincare line uses the precious metal in everything from an anti-aging eye mask to a cellular serum, all-day moisturizer, facial peeling gel, night cream and filler cream—and with good reason. Gold restores lost elasticity to tissue, slows down collagen depletion and breaks down elastin to prevent sagging skin. Now, your face’s luster can match the shine of your favorite pieces of jewelry!

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The LUXURY of LAUGHTER C

artoons are always good for a laugh, but sometimes, they’re equally good at making us take a closer look at society. Nowhere was that truer than the cartoons featured from 1877 to 1917 in the magazine Puck, many of which are on display as part of With a Wink and a Nod: Cartoonists of the Golden Age at Chicago’s Richard H. Dreihaus Museum. The exhibition, which features 74 rare original drawings for the magazine, also includes illustrated commentary on America’s upper class by such artists as Samuel Ehrhart, Louis Dalrymple and Franklin Howarth. A companion exhibition, Gilded Age Luxury, showcases more than a dozen small luxury goods from the same period, including J.P. Morgan’s own walking stick. We suggest you run and see it before January 8, when these exhibits will close.

M

Heavenly REST

ost beds are for getting a good night of ZZZs, but not Swiss artist Conor Mccreedy’s latest art installation, My Blue Heaven. This ingenious, glass-encased design uses the artist’s famous Mccreedyblue pigment combined with the finest white leather, gold/brass pin buttons, and, most importantly, a specially created bed from Bernarda Beds made from the finest micro wood and top-quality silver. The wood base under the box spring was crafted from naturally fallen Austrian trees so it absorbs humidity, and the silver technology prevents any germs. As for the mattress, forget Sealy or Serta—it was personally commissioned and modeled exactly on the artist’s body and weight, movements and comforts. This one-of-a-kind work is currently traveling the world’s most renowned art fairs, and is expected to be on view during Art Basel Miami in December.

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THANKS

for the memories

Contrary to popular belief, not everyone finds taking a great photograph as easy as point and shoot. For travelers who lack even the most basic camera skills, or want to leave both their camera and cell phone behind, there’s Flytographer. This very clever service, now available in 175 of the world’s major cities, connects you online with one of its 350 qualified photographers, who can join you on your trip and capture those precious memories clearly and beautifully. And while the results are not instantly available, you only have to wait a mere five business days to see the finished product—which you’ll then have a lifetime to savor.

recipe

PIMENTO cheese dip INGREDIENTS: • 3 cups grated cheddar cheese • 1½ cups grated Monterey Jack cheese • ½ cup chopped pimentos • 2 tablespoons chopped pickled jalapenos with juice • 2 cups good-quality mayonnaise STEPS: Combine all ingredients and mix well. Makes 6 cups.

ABOUT CYNTHIA CATHCART

C

ynthia Cathcart is the owner of Dallas-based Cafe Danielle Catering and Events. With more than 20 years of hospitality experience, Cynthia brings a wealth of new ideas and delicious treats to various clients across DFW. From customized menus, to event planning and unique floral arrangements, Cynthia is a top-rated contact for any occasion you’re celebrating. For more details please visit: cafedaniellecateringandevents.com

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You'll drive over a million miles in your life.

How many will you remember?

The Continental GT V8 Convertible For more information call 214.849.5300 or visit www.bentleydallas.parkplace.com

BENTLEY DALLAS The name 'Bentley' and the 'B' in wings device are registered trademarks. Š 2016 Bentley Motors, Inc. Model shown: Continental GT V8 Convertible

PURE FORM

BACHENDORF’S ACCENT THE MAGAZINE OF LIFE’S CELEBRATIONS

FALL/WINTER 2016 /17