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CO NT EN TS DEPARTMENTS TASTE: pg.12 The Art of Food: A Taste of France in the Champagne Region at Restaurant Le Parc TRAVEL: pg. 14 L'Amour dans Le Domaine Les Crayères: Fall in Love with the Luxurious French Chateau FILM: pg. 16 Ariana Grande Shines in New Movie, Wicked pg. 18 Timothée and Gwyneth Supreme: The Actors’ New Film Coming Soon pg. 20 Lady Gaga and Joaquin Phoenix Dazzle in New Joker Film: A Captivating Triumph of Cinema CHARITY: pg 80 B.A.R.E. Truth FEATURES pg. 24 Holiday Gift Guide pg. 30 Saint Jane Beauty pg.40 Wendy Starland Takes on the Music Industry pg. 42 Celebrating Women in Film pg. 50 Stella McCartney pg. 62 Art As Fashion: Chained By Sedona pg. 70 Paris Fashion Week
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
WELCOM E TO THE HOLIDAY ISSUE OF BELLA VIDA MAGAZINE Issue 4 has arrived, and what a whirlwind it has been since our last release! As we enter this festive season, I’m thrilled to unveil all the extraordinary features we’ve curated just for you. This special holiday edition celebrates the Holidays, luxury beauty, fashion, art, music, and the incredible individuals making a global impact, and we can’t wait for you to explore it. We feature some incredible brands you need to know about in this issue, including Chained by Sedona by Sedona Legge. I’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Wendy Starland for being my fabulous guest on the Living a Bella Vida Podcast. Not only is she a beauty to behold, but her work truly uplifts and transforms lives. Wendy is more than a music icon—she’s a visionary using her platform to create real, meaningful change across the globe. I’d also like to express my deep appreciation for Charis Michelsen and Galina Sobolev your contributions, dedication and friendship mean the world to me. Another shout-out to my husband, Brady Schmidt, who continues to inspire and drive me forward to keep creating, building, and making this publication seen. Your unwavering support gives me strength. And to you, our cherished readers: from Issue 1, you’ve been with us, and for that, we are immensely grateful. The best is yet to come, and we are thrilled for you to continue this journey with us. Don’t forget to check out our new website and stay tuned for more inspiring stories that will uplift and motivate you in the new year. Sending all our love and blessings for a joyous holiday season. May peace and joy fill your days, and here’s to an extraordinary 2025. With gratitude and love,
Erin Schmidt Editor in Chief
TASTE
THE ART OF FOOD
A Taste of France in the Champagne Region at Restaurant Le Parc By Erin Schmidt Photography by Les Crayeres In the heart of Reims, France, Les Crayères Restaurant Le Parc captures the essence of French haute cuisine with an ambiance that is both majestic and warmly inviting. Nestled in the grand chateau setting of Les Crayères, which is a Relais & Châteaux property, sits Le Parc, the 2-Michelin-star establishment epitomizes the art of refined French living, where meticulous details blend naturally to craft a space of elegance and harmony. At the helm is Chef Christophe Moret, who brings an inventive approach to traditional French cuisine, informed by his rich memories of culinary travels. This worldly influence is evident in his standout creations, such as the caviar sea urchin in bonito nage and the delicate Chawanmushi, both infused with hints of smoked kombu—a nod to the flavors of Asia that inspire much of his modernist approach.
global prestige and French terroir. Recognized with the 2024 Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence, Grelier’s selections span rare vintages and emerging labels, chosen with the same care and precision that Chef Moret brings to each dish. His wine pairings elevate Moret’s creations, introducing diners to a world of flavors that harmonize with the menu’s exquisite balance.
Moret’s artistry is complemented by Nicolas Grelier, the restaurant’s head sommelier, who has curated a wine list that reflects both
From the attentive, unpretentious service to the seamless blend of culinary innovation and classic technique, Restaurant Le Parc invites guests to experience French haute cuisine reimagined, in an atmosphere that feels both luxurious and comforting. For the discerning gourmand, Le Parc offers more than a meal—it’s a journey through the art and soul of French gastronomy. To book your vacation at DOMAINE LES CRAYÈRES Paper & Diamond Debbi Lee New York · Los Angeles · Worldwide Direct +1 424 343 6491 Email: dlee@paperanddiamond.com
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TRAVEL
L’Amour dans Le Domaine Les CrayEres
Fall in Love with the Luxurious French Chateau By Erin Schmidt and Galina Sobolev Photography courtesy of Les Crayères The Domaine Les Crayères, a Relais & Châteaux association member and the Gardinier family’s property, has been repeatedly awarded from international newspapers and magazines. Since 1904, Domaine Les Crayères, a storied château in the heart of Reims, brings French classicism to life within seven lush hectares of manicured grounds, evoking a world of timeless elegance. Once the residence of the De Polignac family, this estate’s grand design harmoniously marries its historic roots with a modern take on the château lifestyle, crafting an atmosphere as sophisticated as it is welcoming. Every suite at Les Crayères is meticulously designed, exuding refinement and a sense of intimate luxury that speaks to the heart of romance and French heritage. Rich in charm, the property is both a tranquil retreat and an exquisite base to explore the Champagne region's treasures. Here, each detail is woven into a masterpiece, from the unparalleled service to the stunning surroundings, and gourmet culinary experiences, making Domaine Les Crayères the epitome of refined luxury in Reims.
Luxe, Exclusive and Personalized Travel with Paper & Diamond Founded by Debbi Lee, Paper & Diamond redefines luxury travel and wellness, offering bespoke experiences tailored to the most discerning of global clients. With an unparalleled understanding of the luxury travel landscape and wellness industry, Paper & Diamond seamlessly blends opulence with adventure, crafting journeys that are as breathtaking as they are meticulously curated for private clients, including several celebrity clients. Whether you’re seeking to uncover hidden gems or explore the world’s most iconic landmarks, Paper & Diamond reveals the true essence of each destination, transforming your vision into an extraordinary reality. Every detail is thoughtfully personalized, ensuring each experience is as unique as it is unforgettable. At Paper & Diamond, the art of travel transcends the ordinary, leaving you with memories that echo with elegance and allure long after your journey ends. To book your vacation at DOMAINE LES CRAYÈRES Paper & Diamond Debbi Lee New York · Los Angeles · Worldwide Direct +1 424 343 6491 Email: dlee@paperanddiamond.com
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Photo by VALERIE MACON/AFP via Getty Images
FILM
ARIANA GRANDE SHINES IN NEW MOVIE WICKED BY ERIN SCHMIDT As the highly anticipated film adaptation of the musical Wicked takes center stage this November, excitement is brewing both in Hollywood and beyond. The star-studded musical, which delves into the untold stories of the witches of Oz, is shaping up to be one of the most glamorous events of the year, with fans eagerly awaiting its release. The buzz around Wicked reached new heights earlier this year at CinemaCon 2024 in Las Vegas. During the Universal Pictures
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and Focus Features presentation at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace on April 10, stars of the film, including Ariana Grande, stepped onto the stage to give fans a glimpse of what’s to come. Grande, who plays Glinda the Good Witch, turned heads in a chic, pastel pink ensemble by Valentino—a nod to her character's ethereal glamor. The actress and pop star is known for her signature feminine style, and her look for the event was no exception, channeling Glinda’s whimsical yet polished aesthetic.
Who’s Afraid of the Wicked Witch? Alongside Grande was Cynthia Erivo, who plays the fierce Elphaba, the future Wicked Witch of the West. Erivo, always a red-carpet standout, arrived in a bold and dramatic gown by Schiaparelli that featured intricate, structured details—a look befitting of her powerful character. Her outfit at CinemaCon embodied Elphaba's complexity and depth, with a daring edge that reflected the character’s rebellious spirit. Together, these two actresses are not only set to deliver jaw-
dropping performances on-screen but have already captivated fashion lovers with their red-carpet presence. The duo have been seen across events and red carpets dressed in the respective colors of pink, for Ariana’s character Glinda, and green for Cynthia’s character, Elphaba, while holding hands in a display of friendship and unity showing the complexity of their characters in the film. Filming Wicked The filming of Wicked has been a deeply transformative experience for both. For Grande, stepping into Glinda’s sparkly shoes and theatricality meant adapting her pop persona to a beloved stage character, a challenge she embraced wholeheartedly. Erivo, meanwhile, brings gravity to Elphaba, channeling the strength and soulfulness she’s become known for, which is sure to add a profound layer to the "misunderstood" green witch. The Most Highly Anticipated Movie Release this Holiday Season The Wicked premiere in Hollywood promises to be just as spectacular. As fans and fashion insiders alike await the November release, the excitement surrounding the film's visual and musical storytelling is undeniable. Directed by Jon M. Chu, the film brings to life the beloved Broadway musical in a way that is grander and more visually striking than ever before. With a score full of classics like "Defying Gravity" and a plot that explores themes of friendship, power, and identity, Wicked is poised to be a major cinematic event this holiday season. As we approach the premiere, one thing is certain: the Wicked red carpet will be a fashion spectacle, with its stars—Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, and the rest of the talented cast—continuing to dazzle with their style, much like they did at CinemaCon. Keep your eyes peeled for more iconic moments as Wicked prepares to cast its spell on Hollywood.