Luxe lifestyle magazine Dec / Jan 2017-18

THE

MAGAZINE

LUXE LIFESTYLE Dec/Jan 2017-18

CAROLINA’S

Twine & Twig

Breaking Tradition in Tabletop PLUS...

Polo Lifestyle Meet Dr. Andy Dreamy Destination to Zermatt Switzerland ....and more

FESTIVE & FEARLESS with jewelry designer Devon Leigh

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Dream within a Dream Model Emily Crago Photography Graham Morrison Wardrobe original design

by Alice Elizabeth Andrews Hair Morgan Mae Beck Makeup Jannifer Yates

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Note from the editor

T

LUXE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

ime flies when your having fun. I can’t believe it has been a year already. Welcome to our one year anniversary. As our publication continues to grow - focusing on fashion, health, beauty, cuisine, equestrian and travel, stories local and

beyond so does the Luxe Lifestyle footprint and distribution.

In light of the holidays and the new year ahead, our features explore seasonal social graces, food and drinks. A fun new twist on the holiday table, with Breaking Tradition in Tabletop. Our health articles include Balancing your Hormones and a new exercise called T-tapp. Finally, our travel pieces on New York City and Zermatt Switzerland explore the unforgettable winter season holiday.

We hope you continue to appreciate and benefit from Luxe Lifestyle Magazine. We invite your input. Let us know your areas of interest or any unexplored topics you would like covered. We will review each suggestion.

We wish everyone a fabulous holiday season and look forward to sharing the year ahead.

Colleen Guilfoile Richmond Founder & Editor

EDITOR IN CHIEF, FOUNDER Colleen Guilfoile Richmond

ART DIRECTOR Kim Hall

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Erin Rutherford Natalie Gladden Farrah Nazer Sharon Schweitzer Scott Homewood Brianna Melanson Allison Parker

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Jeff Palmer Ray Dunbar Skylar Brady C. Daren

NATIONAL AND REGIONAL ADVERTISING For advertising information contact: Colleen Richmond 203-561-5086 The Luxe Lifestyle Magazine is published bimonthly. Reproduction in any manner in whole or part is prohibited without the express written consent of The Luxe Lifestyle Magazine.

Material contained herein does not reflect the opinion of the publisher or its staff. The Luxe Lifestyle Magazine does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertisements or editorial. The Luxe Lifestyle Magazine reserves the right to edit all materials for space and clarity and assumes no responsibility for accuracy, errors or omissions. Articles and photographs are welcome and may be submitted to our offices to be re-viewed.

Submissions editor@LuxeLifestyleMag.com

www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com facebook.com/Luxe Lifestyle Magazine @LuxeLifestyleMagazine ABOUT THE COVER Cover photo model Emily Crago Photography Graham Morrison Wardrobe original design by Alice Elizabeth Andrews

Luxe Lifestyle P.O. Box 79322 Charlotte, NC 28271

Hair Morgan Mae Beck Makeup Jannifer Yates Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

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Features

DECEMBER JANUARY

24. TWINE AND TWIG BREAKING TRADITION IN TABLETOP by Erin Rutherford 47. FESTIVE AND FEARLESS WITH JEWELRY DESIGNER DEVON LEIGH by Brianna Melanson 58. FIT & AGELESS

by Brianna Melanson

71. THE AMBIANCE OF FASHION, BEAUTY AND SCENT by Allison Parker 75. BALANCING HORMONES

by Brianna Melanson

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Departments

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9. NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

39. STYLE Life of the Party

12. CONTRIBUTORS

It takes a tribe to create this magazine and our digital platform. Here is a look at the many talented ones who make it all happen.

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14. GOOD READS 16. ETIQUETTE

50. SOCIETY SIGHTINGS

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The Great Gatsby Rally for the Cure Storybook Ball Wine, Women & Shoes

62. FEAST WU’s Cajun Seafood

2017 Holiday Tipping Guide

by Scott Homewood

by our Ms. Manners Sharon Schweitzer, J.D.

65. NEWS & NOTEWORTHY

20.TRAVEL

The Spa at Ballantyne

3 Days in New York

by Colleen Guilfoile Richmond

32. HEALTH

5 Steps to help you let go of what is no longer serving you...

by Farrah Nazzer, our Certified Health Nutrition and Wellness Coach

68. SAVOR

A Southern Holiday Party

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by Jessica Bently

78. DREAMY DESTINATIONS – A Chalet in Zermatt Switzerland

by Colleen Guilfoile Richmond

34. BEAUTY The Make-up How to Get that enviable look this party season with these simple steps.

by Natalie Gladden

36. BEAUTY Natural is an Expectation

by Dr. Andy Castillo

85. EQUESTRIAN

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Polo Lifestyle, Sport of Kings, King of Sports

by Colleen Guilfoile Richmond

89. Q & A WITH STYLIST DAWN CONNER

by Colleen Richmond

91. ZODIAC

By Manish Kumar Arora

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contributors ERIN RUTHERFORD

NATALIE GLADDEN

Erin Rutherford Better known

Natalie Gladden has been in the

as a financial consultant to in-

hair and makeup industry for over

terior designers and women’s

13 years now; she is owner of NL-

fashion retailers, Rutherford

Glam and a freelance makeup art-

began following her true pas-

ist for various cosmetics compa-

sion in 2016 when she began

nies. Natalie is a Charlotte native

her food blog theopenroad-

who’s passion is making woman

kitchen.com. When not cook-

feel their most beautiful, all while

ing, you can find her practicing yoga, loving on her two

staying on top of today’s trends. She is also lucky enough

kids or enjoying an early morning walk with her dog Millie.

to work with her favorite NFL team, the Carolina Panthers, doing makeup for their broadcast team.

ALLISON PARKER Allison Parker has a MBA in

JESSICA BENTLEY

marketing and human resourc-

Jess is a food writer, photogra-

es from Duquesne University in

pher and self-taught chef who’s

Pittsburgh, PA.

Always loving

cooking her way through the

the written word, Allison has a

Queen City of Charlotte, NC.

knack for streaming her thoughts

Take a glimpse into a slice of her

through to the keyboard. Her fa-

kitchen, by following her on In-

vorite part of freelance writing is

stagram & Twitter @sliceofjess.

meeting interesting people and discovering unique subjects

http://www.sliceofjess.com

to share with her audiences. Allison enjoys being a devoted mom to her 3 beautiful boys and volunteering within their schools and community. Allison embraces new adventures, loves to travel, and is always on the quest to learn more about the world around her.

SHARON SCHWEITZER Sharon Schweitzer, J.D., is a cross-cultural trainer, modern

JEFF PALMER Jeff Palmer, I am a visual storyteller. For more than 30 years, People, Places, and Things have been photographed by me with love, fun, and care. When words cannot suffice, my photography fills in the blanks. I look forward to seeing you out and about.

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manners expert, and the founder of Access to Culture. In addition to her accreditation in intercultural management from the HOFSTEDE Centre, she serves as a Chinese Ceremonial Dining Etiquette Specialist in the documentary series Confucius was a Foodie, on Nat Geo People. She is the resident etiquette expert on two popular lifestyle shows: ABC Tampa Bay’s Morning Blend and CBS Austin’s We Are Austin.

She is regularly quoted by BBC Capital, Investor’s Busi-

dition, how people have overcome obstacles to empower

ness Daily, Fortune, and the National Business Journals.

themselves and become successful contributors to society.

Her Amazon #1 Best Selling book in International Busi-

He also enjoys the occasional Moscow Mule.

ness, Access to Asia: Your Multicultural Business Guide, now in its second printing, was named to Kirkus Reviews’

BRIANNA MELANSON

Best Books of 2015. She’s a winner of the British Airways International Trade Award at the 2016 Greater Austin Business Awards.

Brianna Melanson is a transplant from Upstate New York where she

ALISSANDRO “ANDY” CASTILLO, MD, MBA

earned her Bachelor’s in Professional Writing. She is passionate about telling everyone’s unique stories and showcasing local business-

Dr. Andy Castillo is a board-cer-

es. She loves everything Charlotte

tified physician, inventor, and serial entrepreneur. He is the owner of M.D. Laser Studio, Encore

has to offer, especially the food, which is always documented on her Instagram.

Nurses, and Charlotte Passport Health. His education includes a

FARRAH NAZER

BS from the University of Maryland, an MD degree from Wake Forest University, an MBA from Duke University Fuqua School of Business, and a research fellowship at Johns Hopkins. He is a Fellow of the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery, as well as a luminary, speaker, and trainer for multiple products and procedures in the medical cosmetic industry.

Farrah Nazer is an accomplished Nutrition and Lifestyle Coach, and published author of eguide “ Love your Life”.

She works closely with her clients,

helping

them

improve

themselves. She works with cli-

SCOTT HOMEWOOD Scott Homewood is a freelance writer who has been

ents who anxiety, low-self-esteem, unhealthy relationships, and poor diets. She guides them to a more healthy lifestyle which leads to a happier, healthier life. www.farrahnazer.com

published in many newspapers, magazines and websites over his 30-year plus writing career, including some of his own. A former musician, his obsessions include the arts in all their varied forms: music, dance, writing, cinema, and culinary. He has a deep interest in the human conDec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

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good reads

Charlotte Mecklenburg Library book specialists

HOME: THE BEST OF THE NEW YORK TIMES HOME SECTION: THE WAY WE LIVE NOW With striking photographs and compelling stories from its vast home-design archive, the editors of the New York Times’s beloved Home section offer a look at how contemporary homeowners make the most of their living spaces—whether small or stately, rural or urban, historic or cutting-edge—and do it with style. Reflecting the latest and most inventive ideas in home design, the projects express the optimism, resourcefulness, and experimentation of today’s architects, designers, and homeowners.

TIMELESS JOURNEYS: TRAVELS TO THE WORLD’S LEGENDARY PLACES “From Machu Picchu to the Pyramids of Giza and beyond, this travel-lover’s delight takes readers on a breathtaking visual journey to the world’s most historic wonderlands. Pack your bags for an extraordinary adventure with National Geographic to more than 50 places that have captivated our imaginations for centuries. Vintage photographs from the National Geographic archives tell the backstory of the discovery and earliest visitors to places like Carthage, Pompeii, Victoria Falls, and more, while showstopping contemporary photographs bring them to life in exquisite detail.

FROM NAPA WITH LOVE: WHO TO KNOW, WHERE TO GO, AND WHAT NOT TO MISS Napa Valley is a wonderland boasting beautiful weather, exquisite vistas, bespoke hotels, Michelin-rated restaurants, and world-class wineries. From Napa with Love is equal parts travel- and lifestyle-guide celebrating this famed and incredibly popular California destination. Featuring itineraries, interviews, sidebars, recipes, and entertaining 101s, this highly visual volume provides insider information about the best the area has to offer, as well as tips on how to bring home that much-envied Napa lifestyle. Each of the nine chapters offers up a distinct point of view (the Bohemian, the Oenophile, the Foodie, etc.), and these roles are filled by the region’s most notable residents, weekenders, and summer folk.

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share their selections for the season's best reads...

MANHATTAN BEACH BY JENNIFER EGAN Anna Kerrigan works at the Brooklyn Naval Yard during World War II. She hopes to become the Navy’s first female civilian diver.

Anna lives with her

mother and disabled sister. Her father disappeared years ago. Anna is investigating her father’s disappearance. She has memories of him meeting with Dexter Styles, a gangster and seeks him out. Egan, who won the Pulitzer Prize for A Visit from the Goon Squad, creates a rich historical setting, vivid characters, and lyrical descriptions.

THE SEVEN DAYS OF US BY FRANCES HORNAK The Birch Family have not spent the holidays together in years. The family is now in quarantine for the holidays thanks to the oldest daughter Olivia. She is a doctor and has been treating patients with the Haag virus in Liberia. They are at Weyfield Hall in England. Arguments resume and secrets are revealed. The book is told from each family member’s perspective. Frances Hornak’s debut novel will appeal to fans of British authors like Jenny Colgan and Jane Green.

ARTEMIS BY ANDY WEIR Andy Weir follows up on the incredible success of his debut, The Martian. Weir takes us to Artemis, the only city on the moon. It has working class and wealthy residents. Jazz Bashara, a porter is in debt. She turns to smuggling to make ends meet. However, she takes it to the next level when a wealthy entrepreneur approaches her about helping him take over the moon’s aluminum business. However, complications ensue and her survival is at stake.

www.cmlibrary.org

Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

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etiquette

I

2017 Holiday Tipping Guide

by Sharon Schweitzer, J.D.

n Canada, there’s Boxing Day on December

There’s no designated U.S. American holiday for end-

26th, a holiday that many Canadians use to tip

of-year tipping, nor is there a federally-required monetary

those who make their lives easier.

holiday bonus for employees. However, during this time of

In Mexico, there’s Aguinaldo (Ah-gee-nahl-doh), an an-

year, tipping is standard across dozens of sectors.

nual Christmas bonus equivalent to at least 15 days wages

Drafting your holiday tipping plan can be daunting, but

that companies are required to pay their employees before

fear not--this guide is thorough enough to help anyone

December 20, just in time for the holidays. The Aguinaldo

navigate holiday tipping. There’s no hard and fast rule

may be prorated if the employee has been with the compa-

about how much or who to tip in the U.S. Consider our

ny for less than a full year.

suggestions:

In addition to Mexico, a number of other Latin American nations also require employers to pay aguinaldo to

1. Start with a Budget: Calculate how much you’re

their employees. The Aguinaldo is heralded as providing

willing and able to spend. Remember, holiday tip-

a tremendous boost to Latin America’s seasonal demand

ping is not an obligation. Below, we list alternatives

for retail products including automobiles, appliances and

to big spending to soften that January blow to your

furniture.

checkbook.

In the U.S. Americans use the time between Thanksgiving and the New Year to express gratitude with ‘gratuity’ or a Holiday Tip.

2. Grab Pen & Paper: Make a list of those you wish to tip, placing those who help you most frequently at the top. Your trusted housecleaner, nanny, or daycare center staff may receive more than an infrequent provider.

3. Who Gets What? Factor in routine tipping--for those you tip regularly at the time of service, consider offering a small present or a gift card to a nearby café. Keep in mind local and regional customs, service quality and frequency, and relationship length.

4. Creative Alternatives: Handmade cards show heartfelt effort and genuine gratefulness. Explore Hallmark and Michael’s for colorful cardstock or calligraphy pens. Special baked goods (baklava or peppermint bark), local artisan candles or soaps,

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fine tea or coffee, and flower arrangements are excellent alternatives to monetary tips.

5. Encourage Child Participation: Your child may

Home or Building Personnel: • Live-in help (cook or butler): Between a weekmonth’s pay, plus a gift

want to make a gift for a babysitter, au pair, or nanny.

• Housekeeper: Once a week, equivalent of a

Encourage them to make a drawing, card, or craft.

day’s pay, or $50. Daily, equivalent of a week’s pay, and possibly a gift

Suggestions to pair with your child’s gift:

• Gardener: Equivalent of a week’s service • Landscaping crew: Equivalent of a week’s ser-

• Live-in nanny or au pair: a week’s pay • Babysitter: evening’s pay • Day Care Center Staff: week and a month’s pay.

vice, divided among the crew • Pool cleaning crew: Equivalent of one session, divided among the crew.

• Garage attendant: Between $15 and $40 or give

Check Corporate Poliy: • Clients: Business gift baskets of chocolate, edible fruit, nuts, cheese, wine, cookies, petit fours; golf balls & non-logo gifts • CEO/Boss: Group gift to their favorite charity or non-profit foundation • Assistant: Bonus or gift based on relationship length • Colleagues: Gift they will like for sports, hobby, or dining, gift card • Office Gift Exchange: Don’t go rogue, follow the spending guidelines

Education & Schools (follow policy): • Professor: Greeting card, no gift • Teacher: Consider a group gift with parents pooled funds • Assistant /Aide: $25 – $50 gift certificate • Multiple Teachers: Small gift, candle, baked goods, gift certificate.

• Principal: Holiday card & baked goods • School Secretary: Café gift card, small gift or gift certificate

a small gift • Garbage/recycling: If city permits, $10-$30 each for extra holiday effort • Doorman: between $50 – $100 each, or gift, depending on extra duties • Elevator Operator and Handyman: Between $20 – $50 each • Newspaper delivery: Between $10 – $35, or give a small gift

Healthcare providers: • Private Health Care Nurse: A week’s pay or a gift of similar value • Home Health Employee: Follow policy / generous gift basket of holiday treats • Nursing Home Staff: Follow policy / gift basket of holiday treats for all

Personal grooming: • Hairstylist, Manicure, Pedicure, Specialist: Equivalent of a visit • Barber: Haircut & shave equivalent or a gift • Massage Therapist: Session equivalent or a gift

• School Nurse: Café gift card, small gift or gift certificate

Pet care: • Groomer: Equivalent of one session or a gift

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• Walker: A week’s pay equivalent or “1-2 visits” per DogWalker.com • Sitter: A week’s pay and a paw print note from your pet

Salon/Spas: If you visit an all-inclusive salon or spa such as Jackson Ruiz, tipping is not only prohibited, it’s against salon policy.

Lifeguards/Swim Coaches: Some aquatic facilities

Package & Mail Delivery:

have rules against employees accepting tips. For example,

The United States Postal Service provides the public

before accepting.

with a tipping and gift receiving policy on their website, however FedEx and UPS do not. The information provided for FedEx and UPS is from customer service representatives who declined to provide their names.

United States Postal Service: Employees may accept baked goods (homemade/store bought) items to share with the branch office. Customers may give edible arrangements, gift cards for merchandise or services valued up to $20 per occasion (such as Christmas). Gifts cannot exceed $50 per calendar year.

- Gifting cash, VISA, MasterCard, or gift cards that may be used as cash are prohibited per USPS Employee Tip-

a lifeguard may be required to decline a tip three times

Regional Delivery Providers such as Austin’s Capitol Courier : There is no specific tipping policy in place for delivery drivers according to Shea.

Avoid giving holiday tips to people on this list; consider holiday e-cards instead: Accountant/CPA Attorney Auditor Banker Bookkeeper

ping and Gift Receiving Policy.

Cobbler

FedEx:

Dentist

Company policies discourage cash gifts or gift cards.

The FedEx driver will politely decline the holiday gratuity.

If the customer is insistent, gifts up to $75 may be accept-

Contractor Disaster relief worker or volunteer Doctor Executive Coach

ed by the driver.

Members, Board of Directors or Trustees

UPS

Red Cross volunteer or worker

UPS does not have an official limit, but due to safety concerns, UPS would prefer drivers to decline cash. Tipping is left to the customer’s discretion.

Discretionary: Personal Trainer: Some personal trainers may be offended by a monetary holiday tip, while others are not..

Review their regular service cost, and determine if you want to offer a monetary tip, a handwritten card, or verbal thanks.

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Physical Therapist Seamstress/ Tailor Veterinarian Remember, when in doubt, ask! If you have any reservations, uncertainties, or questions about tipping rules or expectations, call the front desk of your service provider, school, or business. Ask if they have a tipping or gift-giving policy, and what the standard is for tipping at that location. For more informal relationships where there might not be a front desk to call (i.e. babysitter, dog walker, etc.), opt for modest tips or small gifts to say thanks and wish them a happy holiday.

Emily A. Fisher, P.A. “We measure our success by the success of our clients and the success of our team at Fisher, P.A. Our team of business advisors, accountants, financial/retirement planning and tax compliance specialists can provide the whole package.�

1108 East Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28203 | (704) 332-7800

travel

3 Days in

New York

by Colleen Guilfoile Richmond

photo courtesy of Biltmore Company

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Photos courtesy of Baccarat

S

tart your holiday in New York City at this luxurious hotel that offers you a piece of Paris, France. The

elegance, perfection and the craftsmanship displayed by this high-end guesthouse indicate nothing short of opulence.

Although relatively new in the city, the Baccarat offers a unique guest experience that no other facility in New York City can match.

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When in this first-class hotel, you'll get to eat your breakfast from the Grand Salon as you enjoy the sweet morning sun. If you love exercising, then there's a stylish subterranean gym containing all the necessary components for a refreshing workout. In the basement is a swimming pool where you can have a refreshing dive after a long day sightseeing. What's more, there are four spa treatment rooms where young staff are eager to please you. The rooms are simply alluring with modern finishes and furniture. Not to forget that the delicious food and drinks will blow your mind.

VISIT THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART Located at 1000 5th Avenue, NYC, Metropolitan Museum of Art ranks first as the most visited Museum and attraction in New York City. As such, there's no doubt that it has much to offer. In the museum, you get to see art from around the world dated over 5000 years. The art is utterly breathtaking, inspirational and insightful. It's the perfect opportunity to learn, escape, imagine, discover, play and connect with other people.

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TAKE A STROLL AT THE CENTRAL PARK Sitting on a breathtaking 833 green acres of land in Manhattan, the Park has been a tourist destination for over 150 years.

To catch all the excitement be sure to arrive early as the park is open from 6.00am. In Central Park, you can enjoy a 6-mile group bike ride that allows you to view as much as you can, while you navigate the paved road and the rugged trails.

On the site are the popular landmarks of the park such as Bethesda Fountain and the Strawberry Mountains. The park has a zoo that offers close to 30 minutes of exciting views. Also, you can have a professional photographer take your snaps as you have the horse and carriage ride as you derive fun from the scenery in the park. And if you feel weary, relax on the many benches available.

MANHATTAN SKYLINE On your third and last day in New York City, head to Manhattan Skyline. Other than the Statue of Liberty, you can escape the rush of the NYC central business district and enjoy the tranquil Manhattan harbor sightseeing cruise that takes an hour and a half. If a cruise doesn't sit well with you, you can take a helicopter tour over the scenic skyline of NYC that takes up to 20 minutes.

New York City is a dream come true for holiday makers. Check in at the Baccarat and brace yourself for a magical three days.

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Breaking Tradition in Tabletop

TWINE

& TWIG

by Erin Rutherford

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H

appy hour vibes, coastal tributes, and

Its’ humble beginnings revolved around trunk shows

a relaxed nod to a lifestyle curated by

and pop-up shops, but soon translated into a look shared

two creative souls...this is Twine and

by women of all ages. By Spring 2014, Twine and Twig was

Twig. A contagious brand developed

being embraced by not only local consumers, but by a na-

by sisters Elizabeth White and Jacque-

tional audience for its casual, calm mix of nature’s elements

lyn Buckner in October of 2013, Twine and Twig isn’t just

and its organic tone of globally sourced beads. However,

an innocent idea realized by two creative wonders, it is a

their quick rise to popularity was soon challenged by the

brand that took flight from a point of undeniable gratitude

numerous copy-cat artists invading the market from both

and evolved into a nationally acclaimed symbol of style.

coastal competitors and one-off bead stores. With their

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constant pursuit of authenticity, White and Buckner rose

Some jaunts take them beyond the Carolinas and car-

above the impersonators and commanded the attention of

ry them to unforgettable vacations in the Caribbean and

the “everyday woman� by being sisters first and foremost.

South Africa. Such exposure to various cultures allows

To put it simply, White and Buckner are the heartbeat of

White and Buckner to utilize their passion for travel and

the line. They work together, travel together and heal each

channel their energies into new collections. Most recently,

other’s hearts. Their family has experienced challenges

White traveled throughout Thailand, exploring the mar-

and uncertainty over the past four years, but they steadily

kets of Bangkok and absorbing the inhabitant wildlife of

chose to highlight the positive notes of such demands. To-

the Chiang Mai natural parks. While embracing the chaos

day, with their continued success and outreach to nearly

of everyday Thailand, White found herself at home with the

150 stores worldwide, you often find them smiling care-

spirituality, music and addictive flavors every stop present-

free along the beaches of the Carolina coast, taking in their

ed. Experiences like these not only help the design of un-

blessings one sunset at a time.

forgettable jewelry collections, but also inspire celebrations and the need to challenge traditional styles of entertaining.

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It is an involuntary sense of cool the way both White and Buckner throw a party. Typically, you will find White barefoot and laughing in the kitchen; while, Buckner dances her way around the table layering everything in black and white. Guests arrive to the tunes of artists carefully curated by the CD-burning Buckner, and leave with bellies full of wine and good cheer‌all of them quietly wondering how they too could execute such a chic gathering.

This became the natural progression into tabletop for Twine and Twig. With White and Buckner constantly hosting family and friends, it simply made sense to carry their line’s aesthetic to the table. It is a global look with wooden spoons from Kenya, shell-covered, leather bowls from Nigeria, and their unmistakable mud cloth napkins from Mali. Authentically Twine and Twig, it is a way to breathe life into standard staples and add an element of serious style to the most common of tables.

To showcase their latest lifestyle collection, White and Buckner engaged me to co-host an impromptu Holiday Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

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Open House, featuring the tastes of Thailand and an abun-

plosive and utterly addictive. The first is a pungent lime

dance of their worldly textiles. Their table would be set

vinaigrette that fused together with rice noodles, roasted

with the primal elements of burlap wrapped votives, bam-

chicken, crisp napa cabbage and fresh herbs becomes a

boo bedecked napkins, and tropical leaves intertwined in

splendid sensation. Next, a truly irresistible green curry

twinkle lights. My food would be like a crayon box against

sauce to suit perfectly broiled salt and pepper shrimp. And,

their neutrals; a highlighter of color with all of its’ sweet,

finally, what is a Thai meal without a killer peanut sauce?

spicy and aromatic complexities.

The meal, the table and the people came together as

Thai food is almost always perfumed with scents of gin-

White and Buckner intended. It is the sisters’ way to al-

ger, lemon grass, coconut and fresh herbs. It is often the

ways be prepared to eat, drink and have fun. This Holiday

combination of such aromas stewed together that make

season test tradition and make your table as fashionable as

the food so memorable. Combining and recombining,

your dress…make it a Twine and Twig table.

I developed three sauces that would make their meal ex-

ROASTED SHRIMP WITH GREEN CURRY SAUCE Ingredients for the Green Curry Sauce • 1 13.50 oz Can Thai Coconut Milk • 2 T Brown Sugar • 1 T Fresh Ginger, peeled, finely chopped • 1 T Garlic, peeled, minced • 1/2 T Whole Black Peppercorns • 2 t Fish Sauce

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• 1 t Toasted Sesame Oil • 1/2 t Lite Soy Sauce • 1 4.0 oz Jar Red Curry Paste • 2 T Freshly squeezed Lime Juice • 1/2 t Sriracha • 2 T Fresh Cilantro, finely chopped • 2 T Fresh Basil, finely chopped

Ingredients for the Roasted Shrimp • 1 lb. Jumbo Shrimp (16 to 20 count per pound), peeled and deveined • 2 T Olive Oil • 1/2 t Salt • 1/2 t freshly Ground Black Pepper • To Garnish (optional) • Fresh Cilantro Leaves Green Curry Sauce Preparation: Place all the ingredients listed: thai coconut milk through lite soy sauce in a medium-sized soup pot. Warm over medium heat, stirring often until the brown sugar dissolves (approximately 5 minutes). Reduce heat to low, cover and continue “steeping” the mixture for 25 minutes. Remove from heat and strain the solids from the mixture by pouring it into a medium-sized mixing bowl fitted with a fine mesh strainer. Discard the strained solids and return the "infused" coconut milk to the pot. Whisk in the red curry paste and cook 5 additional minutes, uncovered. Remove from heat and let rest 10 minutes.

Transfer the mixture into a large food processor (or blender), along with the fresh lime juice, sriracha and herbs; process for 30 seconds. Pour the green curry sauce into an air-tight container, cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.

Roasted Shrimp Preparation: Meanwhile, preheat the oven broiler. On a large rimmed baking sheet, toss the shrimp with the olive; season with the salt and pepper. Broil the shrimp 2 minutes, turn them over and then broil the shrimp an additional 2 minutes.

Transfer to a plate and let rest until cooled completely; place in an air-tight container, cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.

To complete the place 1 spoonful green curry sauce on a small plate or a small porcelain appetizer spoon. Top each plate or spoon with 1 chilled shrimp and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Note: This dish may be enjoyed as a warm entree by combining the cooked green curry sauce and roasted shrimp and serving them both over cooked jasmine rice; simply dismiss both chilling steps above. Enjoy!

THAI RICE NOODLES WITH CHICKEN AND HERBS Ingredients for the Rice Noodles • 1 6.75 oz package dry Rice Stick Noodles • 2 c cooked Chicken, chopped • 2 c Savoy Cabbage, finely shredded • 1/4 c Fresh Mint, finely chopped (packed) • 1/4 c Fresh Cilantro, finely chopped (packed) • 3 Green Onions, green and white parts, thinly sliced • 2 T Black Sesame Seeds Ingredients for the Vinaigrette • 1 cup freshly squeezed Grapefruit Juice

• To Garnish (optional) • Honey Roasted Peanuts Rice Noodle Preparation: To soften the noodles, first place the dry noodles in a large bowl. Then, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Pour enough water over the noodles to submerge completely and let stand 30 minutes. Drain well and coarsely chop with kitchen shears (easiest tool in the kitchen to cut cooked noodles!).

Transfer the chopped noodles to a large mixing bowl and add the chicken, cabbage, fresh herbs, green onions, and black sesame seeds. Toss gently to combine and set aside.

• 3 T Fish Sauce • 3 T Sugar • 2 T Jalapeno, finely diced • 2 T Sesame Oil • 1 T Rice Wine Vinegar • 2 Garlic Cloves, minced (approximately 1 T) • 1 t Sriracha • 1/2 t freshly Ground Black Pepper

Grapefruit-Jalapeno Vinaigrette Preparation: Combine all the listed ingredients (e.g. grapefruit juice through black pepper) in a small mixing bowl.

To complete the dish, pour the vinaigrette over the chicken-herb rice noodles and toss to dress the noodles completely. Top with the honey roasted peanuts and enjoy!

Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

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THAI PEANUT DIP

Ingredients

Preparation:

• 2 T Shallot, finely chopped

In a large food processor, finely chop the shallot, gin-

• T Fresh Ginger, finely chopped

ger, garlic, jalapeno, and lime juice for 10 seconds. Add

• 1 Garlic Clove, minced

the peanut butter, Thai coconut milk, peanut oil, coconut

• 1 T Jalapeno, finely chopped

palm sugar, salt, sriracha and ground white pepper. Pu-

• 1 T Lime Juice

ree the mixture until smooth (about 30 seconds). Add the

• 1 cup Peanut Butter

fresh cilantro and mint and process 10 additional seconds

• ¾ cup Lite Thai Coconut Milk

to finish the dip.

• 2 T Peanut Oil • 2 T Coconut Palm Sugar (or Light Brown Sugar)

Enjoy with fresh spring rolls and/or crudites; and garnish with chopped peanuts (optional).

• 1 t Salt • 1 t Sriracha (Hot Chili Sauce) • ½ t Ground White Pepper (or Freshly Ground Black Pepper) • ¼ cup (packed) Fresh Cilantro, chopped • 10 leaves Fresh Mint, chopped

MANGO SORBET “TARTLETS” WITH TOASTED COCONUT Ingredients • 1.9 oz Container Mini Fillo (Phyllo) Shells • 1 c Frozen Mango Sorbet (I prefer the Haagen-Dazs brand)

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Preparation: Remove the mini phyllo shells from the container and place on a serving platter or cake stand. Working quickly, fill each shell with 1 Tablespoon sorbet and top with

• Zest of 1 Lime

the lime zest and toasted coconut. Serve immediately as to

• 1/3 c Unsweetened Coconut Flakes, toasted

prevent the sorbet from melting.

Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

Gift Guide Holiday Single Stack Bracelet

Serving Board

$25.00

$TBT

Cookbook The Forest Feast

Holiday Pendant Necklace

$35.00

$195.00

Wall Vine Tile

Dinner Napkin Set of 4

$65.00

$50.00

Holiday Layers Set Gray | Ivory

Throw Blanket

$195.00

$130.00

Serving Fork

$12.00

Mudcloth Clutch

$95.00

Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

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health

These 5 steps will help you let go of what is no longer serving you:

W

By Farrah Nassau, Certified Health Nutrition and Wellness Coach e've all been there. At some point or

Your family and friends are important, absolutely, but

another, we've all spent too much

if you're not taking care of yourself, you won't be able to

time with people who bring us down,

serve others as powerfully as you can.

or wasted precious hours doing some-

Your values as a friend increases when you value your-

thing that doesn't bring us joy. Some-

self. If you want to be able to show up for those you love,

times we're in that negative mental space that makes us

fully energized and ready to serve, you must first recharge

assume. " This is all I deserve." And that, my friends, is a

your batteries. Every time you say yes to something that

terrible space to inhabit.

doesn't deserve your time and attention, you're saying no

If you're spending time doing things that fill you with

to something that does.

negative energy, you're going to carry that energy around

How do you pull yourself out of low self-worth? How

throughout your day. You're going to remain in a funk

do you finally let go of the habits and relationships that

throughout your life if you don't realize that your life is

deplete you instead of nourish you? How do you develop

precious and finite, and that you're deserving of love. The

your "no" muscles, when you're used to constantly saying

most important person for you to take care of is yourself.

"yes" to everything and everyone?

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1. ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR SELF-WORTH First, and most importantly, you must understand why you're letting go of an energy-drainer in your life. Once you know why, you can't return to ignorance. Learn to respect the value of your life. The people you love and need you to show up as your most authentic self, and in order to do this, you need to value your life and fill days with habits, ideas and people who are deserving of your attention. If people don't respect you, respect yourself enough to leave.

Even more importantly, recognize that you are your own best friend. You deserve to make your life your masterpiece, and to find your tribe. Find those people, and those activities, and love them fiercely.

2. FIND THE THING (OR PERSON) YOU WANT TO SAY "YES" TO INSTEAD

a group of friends whose behavior is discouraging or draining, start backing away from that social circle.

4. UNCOVER YOUR LIMITING BELIEFS Limiting beliefs are those you most likely learned in childhood from your parents or society, and they've been robbing you your entire life, These are beliefs like, I'm not beautiful, so I have to be funny to be worthy" or "I have to earn my worth through my achievements" or "I have to conceal my emotions, always be strong, and focus totally on making money in order to be a real man". Limiting beliefs are what often detail us the most from our true purpose, and they also keep us in patterns that don't serve us anymore. Many of us think that we have to have a particular job because that's all we "deserve" or it's what we're "expected" to do. Limiting beliefs may convince you to believe such lies. What limiting beliefs have

Now that you've been jettisoning the things that ar-

been holding you back? Become aware of them, re-

en't serving you anymore, you may want to find some

lease them, and you can change your life.

things you'd like to add to your life. If there's a particular activity you've been dying to try out, schedule

5. STAY CONSISTENT WITH YOUR VALUES

some time for it. If there's someone who brings you

At first, it may feel funky to say "no" to opportunities

joy whom you rarely get to see, plan a date with them

that arise. Have you heard of FOMO (fear of missing

and mark it on your calendar. If you'd rather just say

out)? It's a legitimate phenomenon that many peo-

"yes" to your pajamas, a glass of wine, a comfy couch,

ple experience. I used to say yes to every network-

and your significant other, then do that. Whatever

ing event, or activity related to my business routines

activity, habit, or presence you want more of in your

because I was worried that if I decline them, I'd be

life, you now have time for it, so listen to your intu-

missing out on an opportunity to grow my business.

ition and pursue that addition.

Truthfully, the more I took part in things that didn't really fill me up, the more this diminished the bene-

3. BEGIN WITH SAYING "NO" TO ONE THING If you sense that something isn't serving you, you

fits of those things that actually would help my business. FOMO can easily take over, but recognize it for the sneaky trap it is, and stay aligned with yourself.

must take action on it. Start to practice being more selective about what you commit to and allow in your

Learning to let go of things that do no serve you will

life. This could be something as small as media you

allow you to open up to the things that do, and your life

read, the movies you watch, or the meals you eat. On

will flourish. Take it slowly, and uncover just one thing

the other hand, if you have a glaring energy-drainer

that you want to leave behind. It is a belief? A person?

begging to be taken off your schedule, start big! Tell

A job? A commitment? Give yourself the gift of "no" and

the partying-planning committee that after the term,

your life will finally begin to attract the energy that you

you're going to step down and let somebody else take

truly deserve.

the helm. Say 'no' to that "Friday-night concert if you'd rather stay in and watch a movie. If you have

BE YOU! Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

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beauty

The Make-up How to Get that enviable look this party season with these simple steps.

T

by Natalie Gladden he cold days of winter are upon us. Now that we no longer have the humidity of the South giving us that natural glow we have to rely on our go-to products. For the best natural

dewy look, I recommend Urban Decay Naked foundation and NYX Dewy setting spray; both products last all day and give you a very natural finish. You can easily take this from a day to a night look. Apply a nude eyeshadow all over the lid, line the top and bottom lash line with the MAC black kajal liner for the day look. To amp this up to a night look take an eyeliner brush and smudge out the black liner on the top and on the outer bottom corner of the lash line. You can also apply a light layer of smokey gray eyeshadow to the top outer corner for a more dramatic effect. You can’t forget the red lip, believe me when I say everyone can wear a red lip. It is perfect for the New Year! To complete your look you finish off with that perfect scent; the new Coco Chanel “Gabrielle Chanel”.

We used…

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“Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself”

- Coco Chanel

MAC Black Kajal Liner

Urban Decay Naked foundation and NYX Dewy setting spray

The Red Lip

Coco Chanel “Gabrielle Chanel”.

Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

35

beauty

“Natural is an expectation”

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By Alissandro “Andy” Castillo MD, MBA s a medical aesthetics physician, I often

Understand that these 5 categories aren’t mutually

get asked, “What can you do to help me

exclusive of one another. For instance, adding volume

look better?” That’s typically followed

may improve someone’s laxity, and improving laxity may

with, “but I want to look natural.” I

reduce texture issues. They can play inter-related roles.

explain that it’s not my intention to make

Approaching it this way helps to manage expectations as

you look natural; it’s my intention to make you look better.

a patient. In other words: what you THINK you want may

Natural is an expectation.

not be what you NEED to achieve your goals.

I take a holistic approach to meeting each patient’s needs.

Discoloration – your pillowcase being stained – is

First I determine: what is the patient’s broader goal? Often

essentially either a melanin issue or a vascular issue.

the patient will come in saying they want Botox…but their

Melanin is the brown on your face: it could be sun-

broader goal is a more youthful appearance. If a patient’s

spots, freckles, or even pregnancy mask. From a vascular

stated goal is, “I want to look refreshed,” then we can look

standpoint, it could be little red capillaries – what some

at what is stopping them from looking refreshed. Botox

people mistakenly refer to as broken capillaries (technically,

alone may not be the best solution. I will categorize their

telangiectasia), or you can have larger veins that are

issues into 5 areas to help determine the barriers to their

bluish and purplish-green that cause discoloration to the

stated goal.

face. Those can all be reduced rather easily using lasers.

Sometimes it helps if I use the pillow analogy: • Is your pillowcase stained? Then you have a discoloration issue.

• Is your pillowcase stretched out causing it to drape and fit loosely over your pillow? Then it’s a laxity issue.

• Is your pillow oddly shaped giving it a less than harmonious look? If there is asymmetry, your concern is imbalance.

• Is there something wrong with your pillow stuffing?

Not enough or too much “stuffing” is a volume issue.

• Is your pillowcase wrinkled? Then texture is your concern.

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Laxity – the stretched out pillowcase – is loss of the elastin and collagen, which causes your skin to start draping. That can lead to the “jowling” effect. Also your brow can drop, or your eyelid may begin resting on itself.

Even the bags under your eyes can be a laxity issue. So skin tightening – in this analogy – would be the equivalent to shrinking the pillowcase.

Then there’s imbalance or asymmetry in your pillow. There’s disharmony if you lack balance from top to bottom or from side to side. So, by adding volume, we may improve the shape of your face. Getting Botox just on one side of your face may improve the symmetry. Or filler may improve the imbalance of a small chin or an under bite – just by adding volume in the proper places.

From a volume stand point, it’s like adding or rearranging your pillow stuffing, or even removing stuffing,

as would be the case with body contouring procedures

think you need to address your issues, but maybe some

like CoolSculpting. Volume loss can be improved by add-

solutions you might not have considered.

ing dermal filler like those in the Restylane and Juvéderm

But I don’t stop there. I like to get a very broad picture of

lines. Replacing lost volume in the cheek pads – an area

not only what you want aesthetically, but who you are as a

where we lose fat as we age – may help smooth bags under

person. Everything from your occupation to your hobbies,

the eyes, or even pull back the folds on the sides of the nose.

your exercise schedule – and obviously, the medical side:

In the pillow analogy, texture issues are like wrinkles

what medications you’re on, what allergies you have, what

in the pillowcase. Texture can be further sub-categorized

metabolic problems you may have. I take into account

into two areas: are the wrinkles dynamic, or are they

obligations at work – family – vacations. For example: we

dynamic and static? For instance, when we’re younger and

may choose a different treatment plan for someone who

we smile, we see crow’s feet, but when we relax, they go

likes to go boating or play tennis – as opposed to someone

away. Due to the elasticity and the amount of collagen in

who works in an office or doesn’t have small children. It

young skin, it tends to bounce back after creating wrin-

just varies. I treat everyone on an individual basis, that’s

kles. But as we age we lose that elasticity and the wrin-

why I personally consult with every new patient.

kles will become more static – meaning they remain when

I’ll ask if there are any constraints. For example, does

you’re completely relaxed. Dynamic wrinkles are present

the patient not want surgery, or can they simply not afford

when you’re expressing yourself – when you’re actively

to be out of work for a time? All those things come into

contracting the facial expression muscles. Botox helps

play in creating an overall beauty plan. As I said, it’s my

with the dynamic component of the wrinkle, whereas

expectation that you’ll look natural. It’s my goal to make

lasers and other devices may improve the static lines – as

you look better. I’m not looking to change someone’s

can carefully-placed filler – replacing lost collagen.

appearance. I’m just looking to bring out the most beau-

So, using the pillow analogy I can help patients identify what the barriers are to their stated goal. Not just what you

tiful version of you. The best compliment I get is, “People know I look better – they just can’t tell why.”

Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

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style

Life of the Party Dress By Kimberly Pixton Miller

Photo by C. Daren / cpdtravellerphotography.com on location at Sophia’s Lounge Make-up by Natalie Gladden. Hair by Derek Moser Model Kurstin Jade, Alex Yost and Brittany Harvey of Directions USA. And Travis Dellinger Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

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Dress by Betsy Adam

Suit by Murano

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White sequin jumpsuit by Kimberly Pixton Miller.

Fuchsia jumpsuit by Antonio Melani

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Both dresses

by Adrianna Papell

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White sequin jumpsuit by Kimberly Pixton Miller.

Fuchsia jumpsuit by Antonio Melani

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D N A

GR

G N I

O

N E P

Save the DRAMA for your

Lashes

BLAKENEY COMMONS 9208 Ardrey Kell Road, Ste 100 Charlotte, NC 28277

704.542.9279 M-F 9am-8pm | Sat 9am-7pm | Sun 10am-6pm

www.amazinglashstudio.com/studios/nc/charlotte/blakeney-commons

S

outhPark Mall constitutes some of the most luxurious shopping in Charlotte and is one of the prime places to go for holiday gifts. You

can’t go wrong with Devon Leigh jewelry found in Neiman Marcus.

Founder and designer, Devon Leigh is the queen of statement necklaces. The fabulous women in your lives will be one with celebrities and Vogue models wearing Devon’s striking pieces. You won’t find her bold jewelry on the fashion “naughty list” as they are way too nice and a fashion must.

Devon Leigh, who makes a point to visit Charlotte for trunk shows once a year, is based in Los Angeles.

Living in Los Angeles has worked to Devon’s advantage. Originally in the film industry, she met her husband, Scott Robertson, on a movie set.

N5821

Scott was nominated for a Directors MSRP: $595

Guild Award by being Night Shya-

Devon Leigh N5819 MSRP: $895

FESTIVE

and FEARLESS E3475X MSRP: $295

By Brianna Melanson

N5817 MSRP: $795

sign up to 300 pieces in one day. It would be impossible to replicate. All of her pieces have her signature ethnic part, yet still have a modern feminine feel. Devon also has a knack for reworking trendy accessories. She says, “I don’t consider myself a trend designer, but I definitely do have to put components of trends into my collection to stay true of the times.” Tassels have been a huge trend and will continue to be throughout the winter. For instance, she took all of the tassels off of a belt from India and converted them into earrings.

It was the business aspect that was the most challenging. Devon explained that only 10% of the Devon Leigh brand is the artistic side and the rest is the business and marketing operations, of which she had no background on. She was always the creative type, great with color and texture, and had been making jewelry as a hobby. 11 years ago, you could find Devon Leigh Saturday mornings at the Farmers Market selling her jewelry. She gained a huge following when she began selling in Larchmont, California. That led to opening her own retail store close to those clients. She does not have it anymore, but that was where the business really began to bloom. malan’s assistant director in The Sixth Sense, so Devon accompanied him to the red carpet event wearing an original necklace. After not being able to find the perfect necklace to go with her gown, she went to a local thrift shop and found a brooch. She then took the pin off and strung it with complimentary beads and charms that matched her vision. It drew so much attention at the event, someone bought it off her neck that night. In that moment she realized she should start a jewelry designing business.

Devon’s inspiration is the treasure hunt for her materials. Over the course of four months, Devon collects antiques and thrift shop finds. Plus, she has multicultural components made by artisans in Nepal and Africa as well as connections for stones and metals. Once she has a box full of these miscellaneous valuables, she sprawls them out on a table in her art loft and her eye immediately can de-

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Studio services and stylists would come in to get unique pieces for movies and photo shoots which in turn was free press.

It was thanks to her friend and jewelry rep-

N5819 MSRP: $895

resentative, Ginger, that Devon

learned

about

wholesale and got her into Neiman Marcus Online. Coincidentally, Ginger’s husband worked with fine jewelry designer, David Yurman. Years ago after the Oscars in

E3475X MSRP: $295

models wear brands such as Eileen Fisher. She goes on, “My jewelry is big and bold for any fashion event, especially runway events. Any kind of statement piece people see they definitely think Devon Leigh.” Her pieces stand out and always get compliments. She has everything from freshwater pearls to Buffalo horn to black onyx. Many women buy three or four necklaces to layer. Devon’s fall collections of fiery red stone, turquoise, and gold will double as festive holiday pieces. But we all know we’ll wear

E3832 MSRP: $395

them year round because they are that gorgeous.

Devon is looking forward to what the New Year brings.

N5816 MSRP: $595

Her goals include promoting her website sales, expanding in Neiman stores and internationally, planning travels for when her three daughters are older, and

N5814 MSRP: $1,250

getting more involved in Girl Rising. A portion of the proceeds from her website sales go directly to the philanthropy group Girl Rising, started by one of Devon’s

E3829 MSRP: $375 N5815 MSRP: $795

close friends. Devon is in the process of finding a niche in this founda-

New York City, David invited them to his Tribeca loft for

tion which campaigns

cocktails where he gave Devon the best advice she has ever

for girls’ education and

gotten. He told her, “It’s all about branding. Brand brand

empowerment

brand.” Devon Leigh eventually began doing her own sales

the world. Tis the season

and jumped from 3 Neiman Marcus stores to 18 in the last

to give back. Devon also

3 years. It really is about who you know. Recently, a PR

uses her vivid imagina-

agent she is friends with was working with Lady Gaga on

tion for houseware items

a video. Devon got to make a whole collection for her and

such as wrought iron

Lady Gaga kept three pieces. Devon has also had the priv-

chandeliers, so we can

ilege to work with stylists who have picked out pieces for

look forward to her add-

celebrities such as Jessica Alba and Priyanka Chopra.

ing those to her brand

If you meet with Devon Leigh, she will show you how

across

soon.

to use her jewelry because they are definitely not subtle.

Wearing Devon Leigh

However, she tries to make something for everybody so if

will make you the center

you want an everyday piece, she will have it. Devon wants

of attention at your hol-

to somehow incorporate this one-on-one experience to re-

iday social gatherings.

tailers in the future. She says, “It is the jewelry that makes

We are eager for this

the outfit.” Opt for simple clothing. Neiman’s often pairs

jewelry icon’s next visit

her jewelry with Trina Turk and many stylists will have

in Charlotte next year!

Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

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society sightings The Great Gatsby

T

he 29th annual Great Gatsby Gala was held at the Wells Fargo Atrium. Where over 500 guests attended.

There was swing dancing to live music, hors d’oeuvres and desserts from celebrated Charlotte restaurants, wine, beer and a silent auction. The evening was Gatsby attire or black tie to benefit the National MS Society

Greater Carolinas Chapter.

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Photos by Jeff Palmer, PPT Photography.com

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1. Dancing Shoes 2. Big Band Sounds!

3. Mary Williams Daviv Remaley 4. Aaron Goldfarb, Megan Malka, Jennifer Logan, Scott and Jan Strohm 5. Adam Rhew, Gillian Kulman 6. Elaine teal, Mike Brannock, Alana Mauer 7. Cynthia Wesley, Dakeya Logan

15 8. Martina Harden, Chrystal Jamison 9. Lynn Howard, Justin Bice 10. Lauren and HHouston Reule, Keith and Gina Moore 11. Tiffany Hahne, Dianne and Del Lucas 12. Lynn Howard, Justin Bice 13. Lisa and Mike Ryan, Keith and Angie Lowe 14. Summer Hall, Jordan Anderson 15. Celia Pearce, Gene Preble Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

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society sightings Rally for the Cure

T

he Evening Benefit, United in Hope was held at the Ballantyne Country Club. It was a fun evening of specially crafted cocktails paired with the Chef’s creations. Followed by dessert with a wine pairing and a live auction. It was an inspirational evening of giving as they Rally for the

Cure. Rally for the Cure’s mission is to actively engage with the community to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer detection, prevention, treatment and research.

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Photos by Jeff Palmer, PPT Photography.com

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1.Rally for Cure Benefit 2. Great Music 3. Maura McCarthy, Donna Ealy 4. Asis Despo, Tammy Simmons 5. Ann Delvecchio, Katie and Donna Ealy 6. Debbie Violett, Robin Sadler 7. Dipak and Priti Patel, Nelson Aaron 8. Darron Mears, Britni Hendricks

9. Donna Grossman, Jill Philmon, Maureen Andriasi 10. Jennifer and Scott Wolf 11. Karen Rutledge, Megan Rouse, Dianne Perillo 12. Maria Anthony, Stephanie Weddington 13. Katie Bradfield, Demi Schmitz, Stami Despo 14. Mike Bearss, Mike Ealy, Steve Sanders 15. Kristin Schuler, Brian Logan Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

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society sightings Storybook Ball

T

he Storybook Ball was held at the Hilton Center City, Charlotte to benefit the Ronald McDonald House of Charlotte. Guests spent a magical evening in Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory. The evening raised over $140,000 to support the families.

The Ronald McDonald House of Charlotte mission is to provide a safe, affordable and caring “home-away-from-

home” for the families of children receiving treatment in Charlotte-area medical facilities. Families are stronger when they are together, and this is never more important than when a child is sick or injured. During this uncertain time, the presence of a familiar face eases the strain of medical uncertainty.

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Photos by Jeff Palmer, PPT Photography.com

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1. Magical Evening 2. Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory 3. Storybook Time 4. Beautiful Tables 5. Aaron Keanini, Ashley Ribenbark, Luke and Kim Pereira 6. Bill Pleasants, Mona Johnson-Gibson, Kim Pleasants 7. Camryn Hunter, Julia Loomer 8. Marin and Madison Stafford

15 9. Brittany Simons, Katy Nystrom, Nicole Dellarocco 10. Faith and Tim Loken 11. Camryn Hunter, Mona Johnson-Gibson, Brooke Jackson 12. Jim Williams, Joe Fisher, Rick Peterson 13. Kimberly and Luke Pereira 14. Rani Singh, Joseph Iskra 15. Victoria Mitchell, Traci Lacy

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society sightings Wine, Women & Shoes

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he 5th annual Wine, Women & Shoes benefiting Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina. The event was created for women who enjoy great style, fine wine and a fabulous cause. The event hosts a fashion show, wine tasting, and a walk-around boutique marketplace. The event was

Photos by Jeff Palmer, PPT Photography.com

held at Felix Sabates Merces-Benz of South Charlotte

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A

Fit and

GELESS

by Brianna Melanson

T

he New Year usually brings you into a frenzy to get fit. You realize the year has flown by and last year’s resolution never happened and you ate half of the cookies left for Santa. The gyms are overcrowded, you’re drinking chalky

protein shakes, and you look at your FitBit more than your phone because you need to lose 10 pounds by Friday. If everything you’ve tried never seemed to work, there may be a better alternative that will allow you to eat those cookies while losing inches in the comfort of your home. Teresa Tapp is the creator of T-Tapp, an exercise program that has been around for nearly 35 years. She is an expert on the complexity of the human body. At age 59, Teresa looks ageless as she continues to make new videos and change the lives of both men and women at all ages and fitness levels around the United States. As a teacher and muscle activation specialist, Teresa knows exactly how to maximise your results in short and easy routines.

She has unique tips on how to transform your habits into healthy ones so you can live an ageless lifestyle, too.

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While most workouts take 20 minutes to start burning

Teresa also has tips on how to workout in public without

fat, T-Tapp starts within the first 10 minutes as tested by

anyone knowing, something she calls “sneaky fit.” While

the Cooper Aerobic Institute in Dallas. Each workout is no

you walk anywhere, such as the mall shopping for presents,

longer than 15 to 30 minutes. If you sit down and watch

you can walk the T-Tapp way by improving your posture,

her YouTube videos from T-Tapp Tuesdays on Great Day

balancing bags in both hands, and keeping your thumbs

Tampa Bay, you might not understand what makes it so

turned away from your body. Walking is more beneficial

effective. Even Teresa admits it honestly doesn’t look like

than jogging because you straighten your leg for that split

she’s doing much. In her most popular workout, called

second and increase nerve transmission. The bags will ac-

Hoe Downs, she’s standing in the same place tapping her

tually feel less heavy now that more muscles are activated.

legs and moving her arms side to side. You will be shocked

If you have a shopping cart, grab underneath the bar with

once you try it and you’re suddenly out of breath. All any

thumbs away. So simple.

T-Tapp workout requires is 3 square feet. As many travel

You’ll hear a lot these days to not look at the scale be-

for the holidays, you may find yourself packed in a house

cause the muscle you gain while exercising adds pounds

or in a hotel room with not much space so T-Tapp makes

which when you look at the scale makes it seem like you’re

it convenient. The technique of putting your body in align-

not making any progress. You want to watch the inches de-

ment while doing basic movements is enough to get your

crease, not necessarily the pounds. Your body is a machine.

heart rate up without increasing inflammation. Dr. Per-

Dr. Perricone says, “Each exercise involves five to seven

ricone agrees, “I heartily embrace her approach because

muscles, with each muscle fully activated at both ends

over exercising is counterproductive to our goal of a lean,

(origin and insertion), as opposed to traditional exercise

lithe, well-toned body.”

that work only one attachment and the belly of the mus-

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cle.” T-Tapp will help you get toned without using weights or jumping. In that way, it is rehabilitative, easy on your

T-Tapp will help you get toned

joints, and builds stronger

without using weights or

bones. Teresa often gets referrals from doctors for phys-

jumping. In that way, it is

ical therapy. Former NFL player Michael Clayton, host of Great Day Tampa Bay, has

rehabilitative, easy on your

had knee and hip surgery as well as broken hands. T-Tapp has greatly helped rehabilitate him. If you don’t have joint problems yet, you’re

joints, and builds stronger bones.

lucky and T-Tapp will further prevent them.

At a first glance, you would never expect Teresa to be

have to do it to maintain results. Help your body help it-

nearly 60. One of her latest videos is on how to brush your

self.” It works perfectly with your busy schedule so you can

skin with an all natural plant fiber bristle CRT Body Brush

be the fit boss lady you always dreamed to be.

and after learning that she brushes for 8 minutes every day

You can’t get away from everyone’s homemade sweets

to stay so young, you will want to try it, too. High defi-

during the holidays. You’re going to have your cravings.

nition TVs will still reveal smooth, wrinkle-free skin. It’s

In her book, Fit & Fabulous, Teresa discusses an eating

the combination of brushing and doing T-Tapp. The brush

rule where you will eat whole foods in their natural state

moves your skin in a way that “kickstarts your metabo-

for 3 days, and then the 4th day is your cheat day. For in-

lism” as well as erases cellulite. You can always circle more

stance, you can have grilled chicken during the 3 days, but

on areas of concern.

not chicken parm until the 4th. Once you see your desired

She compares the process to her pastime, horseback rid-

results, you can dwindle your clean eating days. You re-

ing. Before you ride, you must brush the horse to warm

program your mentality. Now Teresa herself eats whatev-

up their body because they have a slow lymphatic system.

er she wants in moderation, but she also craves healthy

Brushing your own body will work your fascia and lym-

foods now. You want to use your sugar as energy before it

phatic system for optimal fitness success.

is stored as fat. The glucose is the first to burn so if you can

Teresa worked with young models in Europe for 18 years.

go to the bathroom after your brownie during a party to

The models were trained the T-Tapp workouts to keep

sneak in a couple minute workout, do it. Ask yourself what

their dancer physique, keep their hormones balanced, and

you want instead of saying you can’t have it. Do you really

take in the cognitive benefits. Now Teresa loves helping

want a frosted cookie after that brownie? No. Do you want

the general public. Every year, Teresa holds a fitness re-

the red wine? Yes. Teresa drinks wine. So please, pour an-

treat for the winners of her 60 day challenge. This year, a

other glass.

25 year old gamer went from a size 18 to size 8. Since her

Teresa Tapp will be coming to Charlotte the first week

job requires so much sitting, it was tough to incorporate

of December to teach a free seminar where she will break

physical activity into her daily schedule. She does three

down all of the steps. Don’t miss this experience to jump

T-Tapp workouts per week, eats her favorite foods, and

start the New Year as ageless as ever. As Teresa always

does “sneaky fits” in the office. Teresa adds, “The stronger

says, “Yes, you can!”

you get, the more challenging it becomes and the less you Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

61

feast

By Scott Homewood

If you live in Charlotte or visit, you know it’s a good place

Once at our table, the hostess told us our server would

to be if you are a foodie. Our food game is really strong and

be there momentarily and true to her word, our server

constantly getting stronger. (Trumpets sound, drum roll)

showed up before we had a chance to look at the menu!

Drink orders were taken and swiftly brought back. We ended up ordering simpler drinks at this outing, with my friend enjoying her favorite beer and yours truly enjoying his signature Moscow Mule. Like I said, the drinks were

Recently opened in the former Vinnie’s Southside Sar-

much easier, no mixologist needed but the service was

dine location on South Boulevard, Wu’s is a concept creat-

great. I’ve had bad Moscow Mules, as simple as they are,

ed by Bottle Cap Group Executive Chef Troy Gagliardi and

and this one was perfect, so there’s that.

quotes itself as being “Louisiana low country meets Asian sweet and sexy”. If that explanation conjures up spicy sushi, Louisiana-style low country boils with a little Asian flavor thrown in, you’d be right!

A notable thing about Wu’s (and very different compared to most uptown restaurants) is that it has it’s own parking lot. Just a little tip for those who drive to Wu’s.

When we strolled into the restaurant, we were greeted at the front desk by two attentive hostesses, one of which immediately beckoned us to follow her to our table. While the seating was extraordinarily fast, we remembered this was a weeknight and we probably wouldn’t have been seated this quickly at a busier time like a Saturday dinner.

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One thing to note is that Wu’s also has a small selection of sushi rolls and sandwiches as well. We didn’t get to try them this outing, but from how they are decribed on the menu, they must be delicious.

For the main course, I ordered the Wu’s Boil with mussels instead of the usual crawfish or shrimp. Personally, I have a deep hatred for peel-and-eat shrimp and crawfish, even though they do taste better. I just hate the idea of having to work for my food and/or end up covered with it by the time I am done. The interesting thing with the boil is they have a number of seasonings you can choose depending on your level of heat tolerance. For example,

To be honest, there were so

they have 2 each of mild, me-

many interesting things on

dium and hot seasonings. I or-

the menu, neither one of us

dered the medium so I could

could decide what we want-

get a decent gage on heat lev-

ed. Normally, each of us will

els. I chose the CURRY – RED

get something different so we

BELL PEPPER, WHITE CUR-

can try each other’s choices

RY, SCALLION, YOGURT as

and get to know more of the

my medium spice choice. My

restaurants best dishes but

friend ordered the Gumbo Ra-

in this case each of us want-

men which contains a gumbo

ed to try Wu’s version of a

base with andouille, ramen

low-country boil which in-

noodles,

clude various seafood options

crawfish,

charred

cabbage, and a kimchi mari-

beyond the standard peel-

nated soft egg.

and-eat shrimp. Other choices include crawfish, oysters, clams, mussels, split lobster tails, and snow crab, making this more than your average backyard boil. It was decided that we would start off with some appetizers so we could keep choosing. For apps we chose the Kung Pao Cauliflower and the Buttermilk Fried Calimari. The Kung Pao Cauliflower is fried, then tossed in a mix of scallions, sesame, and fresno chili. Let me tell you – this is awesome.

Perfectly fried and seasoned with just the right amount of crispness and heat. This will be my standard pick for eating here in the future. The calamari was good but not great, though the texture was very good, with just the right amount of seasoning which included kimchi lemon butter, cilantro, and jalapeño. I would definitely order this again.

photo courtesy of Jess Bentley

Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

63

Without too much of a wait, our entrees came out of the

and I’ve always missed it since moving here. My friend

kitchen and delivered promptly by our server. Let me tell

chose the Grilled Pineapple Foster as her choice and we

you, the boil was amazing. And the spice level was what I

decided it not only tasted magnificent, but looked incred-

would have called a medium myself so it was exactly what

ible too. We almost did not want to eat it. As for the bread

I expected spice-wise with the curry having an awesome

pudding, while not my dad’s it was amazingly good. The

flavor! The mussels were very tender and flavorful while

ingredients include blueberries, goat cheese, pecans, and

the other parts of the boil like the corn, potatoes, etc were

a bourbon caramel topping. The desserts were a great end-

perfect as well. Everything had a full-bodied flavor and I

ing to a great meal.

Sometimes restaurants get lost in the shuffle if they open in the spring or summer, as many restaurants seem to shoot for the same time of year to open. However, great food and a great atmosphere for a reasonable price will always win out and I think Wu’s will be here for a long time. Wu’s has a great location with a reasonable amount of parking and a great new concept featuring familiar food done with a fun new twist. What’s not to like?

didn’t have to work to eat, which made it perfect for me.

As for the Gumbo Ramen, as delicious as my boil was I was almost jealous I didn’t pick it myself! The crawfish were already peeled, so no work there, and the andouille sausage had a very fresh flavor with the cabbage and soft egg being the perfect complement to the tender and delicious ramen.

As a change from our usual norm, we decided to get some dessert. I chose some bread pudding because it’s a fave of mine from my youth.

My father used to make a killer bread pudding with raisins

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WU’S CAJUN SEAFOOD 1714 South Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203

news & noteworthy Just in time to help alleviate the stress from the hectic holiday season and to jump start the new year.

T

he Spa at Ballantyne has introduced a menu that promotes overall health and sustainability.

New outcome driven treatments include Custom Massage Therapy, Stress Relief Therapy and

Second Youth Facial, complemented by mainstays such as The Spa’s signature Carolina Lavender services featuring locally-sourced lavender. All services are designed to provide an experience, sense of place and noticeable results.

“Our carefully curated menu supports our holistic approach to wellness,” said Jana Powers, spa director. “We understand that guests look to The Spa for a commitment to well-being and sense of calm, and our menu delivers in both areas, as well as providing guests something new and refreshing.” New menu highlights include: Custom Massage Therapy. This completely customizable experience provides welcomed relaxation and renewal through a variety of pressures and stretches tailored to personal needs. Ideal for those searching for a combination of pressures and techniques, this treatment offers different tensions in different areas catered to the individual.

Stress Relief Therapy. This nurturing body wrap combines the power of biodynamic flower essences, pro-

touch massage with infused balms and oils rich in probiotics and age-defying ingredients. The treatment concludes with a mineral rich foot scrub and relaxing scalp massage.

Second Youth Facial. Enjoy the ultimate in age defiance with this facial that includes the latest ingredients from marine biotechnology to plump the skin and smooth wrinkles. After a thorough double exfoliation and deep cleansing process, a pro-youth facial massage is performed with massage tools and a skin regenerating concentrate.

This massage provides instant results for relaxing wrinkles and tightening the skin. Finally, a warm wax mask is painted over the skin to deliver a final dose of extra marine filler and to seal in the treatment’s youthful benefits.

This 80-minute facial, which also includes a re-plumping lip treatment, Guests have access to resort-style amenities at The Spa at Ballantyne, a Forbes Four-Star recognized spa.

Luxurious facilities include a seasonal outdoor pool, indoor pools, Jacuzzi, fitness center and spa lounge area.

biotics and rich butters blended to detoxify and calm the

The Spa at Ballantyne, located at The Ballantyne,

nervous system promoting relaxation and well-being. Be-

a Luxury Collection Hotel, Charlotte, is a destination

gin with an uplifting elixir of spring water infused with

day spa in Charlotte, N.C.

biodynamic flower essences. Then enjoy a relaxing light

To book your appointment call 704-248-4141 Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

65

BE PART OF THE

LUXE

WEDDING SECTION! If you live or grew up in North or South Carolina and were married locally or abroad - we want to share your wedding photographs!

Please send images along with details to info@LuxeLifestyleMag.com Weddings must have occurred within the past calendar year. Due to space constraints we are unable to publish every wedding.

Luxe would like to interview the bride and groom so please include contact information.

Thank you!

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67

Savor

A Southern Holiday Party

by Jessica Bently

Christmas Old Fashioned

This recipe was made in collaboration with Doc Porter’s distillery in Charlotte, NC. Ingredients:

Instructions:

• 5 cranberries

1. Slide the orange around the top of the glass and rim with sugar.

• 1 orange wedge • 2 oz. Doc Porter’s Rye Whiskey

2. Muddle 3 cranberries and orange wedge inside glass.

• 1 oz. Simple Syrup

3. Add rye whiskey and bitters to a cocktail shaker with

• 2 dashes Bitters

ice and stir.

• Sugar (for Rim)

4. Strain into the muddled, sugar rimmed glass.

• Orange Slice Candies, optional garnish

5. Create a candy-cranberry kabob as the garnish.

• Ice

6. Serve immediately.

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Southern Shepherd’s Pie Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup Blue Cheese Crumbles

• 3 large Sweet Potatoes

• Cilantro, for garnish

• 4 tbsp. Butter

• BBQ Sauce, for serving (optional)

• 2 tbsp. Heavy Cream • 1 lb. Chicken, cooked & shredded

Note: This recipe would taste delicious with traditional

• 1 Sweet Onion, chopped

ground beef instead of chicken. Simply substitute 1lb.

• 1 cup matchstick Carrots

cooked, ground beef in place of the shredded chicken.

• Olive Oil, as needed Instructions: 1. If you’re using crockpot chicken in this dish, start your crockpot 6-8 hours prior to assembling this dish. If you’re grilling the chicken, grill it first, shred and set aside.

2. Bake sweet potatoes in a 350F oven, covered, for 45 minutes to an hour. Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes. Carefully peel the skin off and place flesh in a medium sized mixing bowl. Smash with a fork and mix together with butter and heavy cream until well combined. Set aside. Turn heat up to 400F. 3. Chop and sauté onion and carrots in a dab of olive oil for 6-8 minutes, or until fully cooked. (Helpful Hint: The grocery store sells carrots already in matchsticks. Buy those and save yourself some time.) Set aside.

4. Spoon the sweet potatoes into a large sealable plastic bag. Cut the bottom right tip off and use this as a piping bag for creating the pillows.

5. Add chicken to a greased, oven-proof skillet. Next layer the onions & carrots and top with pillows of sweet potatoes.

6. Sprinkle with blue cheese crumbles and bake, uncovered, for 20 minutes or until cheese is slightly browning.

7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Serve immediately with your favorite BBQ sauce on the side.

Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

69

Fall in love with Cayman’s flavours.

Grace Byers

visitcaymanislands.com

Photo credit: Rebecca Davidson

The Ambiance of Fashion, Beauty and Scent

By Allison Parker

F

resh, crisp spring days with a hint of

Growing up on a beautiful island with her senses finely

lavender and jasmine in the air, a fa-

tuned to its natural beauty led Maureen to cultivate “a love

vorite memory with a loved one, a re-

for perfumes”. She recollects that till this day she can re-

laxing moment when a lingering ache

member the smell of her favorite scent Blue Grass by Eliz-

subsides-Jamonique Precious Oils and

abeth Arden and her mother’s fragrance Arpege by Lanvin.

Art evokes a passion for creating a nat-

Desiring to broaden her horizons and experience differ-

ural oil to permeate the senses and transport one to a fa-

ent parts of the world, Maureen was led to New York City.

vorite time, place or feeling. The opportunity to chat with

In the “Big Apple”, she pursued studies in cosmetology and

artistic creator and founder, Maureen Biggs Royale is an

developed a career in makeup artistry and fashion. Being

enchanting one and quite the sensory experience.

around creative and captivating designers and artists led her to “the beautiful mesmerizing world of cosmetics and fragrance”. Maureen embraced the moment and felt this is “where my passion for scent took deeper roots.”

With so many enchanting scents tempting the palate, Maureen noticed something was missing. Being a believer in natural things, her love for oils sparked a desire to “fill the void.” Natural to Maureen is “an essence of spirit by which God gives us natural gifts.” As a fashion stylist and artist, a palette of natural oils and the beauty of the experience of wearing the oils would encapsulate the void.

Curating a love of fragrance started at a young age for the artist. Maureen describes her childhood memories with vivid imagery as she shares “growing up on the Island of Jamaica, surrounded by water and the most exotic plants, flowers and fruits.”. She describes “A true tropical paradise to me, I learned at an early age that there was healing in the fragrant bushes and herbs that grew in our

Starting with the idea to replicate scents that she en-

own back gardens and also the importance of using oils as

joyed sparked a creative flow. The creative flow became

it was a part of our daily regiment in cooking or for thera-

Jamonique Precious Oils and Art. When asked about the

peutic benefits. “For example, Maureen explains “Coconut

name origin, Maureen credits “her beautiful birth place of

oil was our main cooking oil but was used for various hair

Jamaica and the quest to be original and unique” as the

and skin care products. Other oils that were commonly

building blocks in the name. Growing mentally as well as

used were Castro oil, olive oil, and cod liver oil. “

artistically led Maureen to study essential oils and natural

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Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

healing as she experimented with different oils and combinations. Oils can be used to brighten a mood, soothe an ache, or relax the soul. It is a plethora of mixtures that can permeate the senses to bring one to a heighten state of life’s enjoyments. Maureen transcends her goals into the mission statement for Jamonique Precious Oils and Art by stating the mission “to share the knowledge and beauty of the experience that wearing both perfume and essential oils gives to the individual”.

The creative process of creating one’s oils started with taking a base fragrance that was a love of Maureen’s. Designing a new fragrance from premium and essential oils, Maureen took it a step further by looking to find a “purer version of the oil.” Her passion led to discovering the

quisite choosing (1/3 ounce/$55.00). Scents range in mix-

world of premium oils in the purest natural form in unique

tures from Patchouli to Primrose and Orange and all the

scent combinations. Jamonique now has over 30 oils to

delicate nuances that delight our senses. Maureen is pas-

delight the senses. Affordability and customization are

sionate as well on sharing her knowledge about essential

critical goals for the artist as well. Being from a fashion

and pure oils. She feels the best application is direct to the

and art background in New York led Maureen to value be-

skin to allow maximum absorption. She advises “Anoint-

ing able to provide a treasure for all to be able to enjoy

ing yourself all over with your favorite scent is definitely

not just a select segment. Essential body oils are available

the most healthy and romantic way of enjoying your fra-

(3.75 ounces/ $45.00) as well as collective bottles of ex-

grance.”

Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

73

Her desire to share knowledge led her to do instructional seminars as well as do garden and home shows. She is very exclusive in wanting to share not only knowledge but the art of the experience of the oils. Journeys in the sensory experience cover the elements of scent, touch, and ambiance. Her group sizes can range from 5 to 20 people to keep the experience at a premium exposure.

Maureen has a signature fragrance “Yen” that is truly a testament to her drive and ingenuity as Yen means “deep desire to succeed”. From talking and sharing in Maureen’s sensory journey and her strong will to bring her dreams to reality, it is no wonder that this scent is the flagship for the growing and changing artist!

To learn more about Jamonique Precious Oils and Art, please visit Facebook page. If you wish to book seminars or one on one consultation, please contact Maureen Biggs Royale at (704) 578-5915 to begin your sensory journey.

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r. Ronald Brown, author of The Youth Effect-A Hormone Therapy Revolution, created Charlotte’s Carolina Healthspan Institute in 2004.

Dr. Crowder of Carolina Healthspan has helped hundreds of women in Charlotte through Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) since 2007. Dr. Crowder says, “As females we only make 3 forms of estrogen and the strongest natural form is estradiol. Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone are lost as you go through the aging process whether you are a male or female.” Bio-identical is a term meaning the natural form for the human body.

Women experiencing

menopause or as young as their 30’s in perimenopause can replace the hormones their body used to normally make in order to resolve numerous unwanted symptoms. Although Dr. Brown and Dr. Crowder are both gynecologists

and

experts on BHRT, they are also expanding

into

what they call “optimal

well-

ness.” Optimal wellness means boosting

your

brain

function

through

advanced

diagnostics. The doctors at Carolina Healthspan are well-rounded when it comes to improving the lives of women as naturally as possible.

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Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy will reduce

fort in. Even while taking BHRT, it is necessary to exer-

hot flashes, fatigue, depression, mood changes when your

cise and eat a clean diet. It is not a miracle pill. They call

hormones are out of whack. Also you may realize as you

it functional medicine because they will teach you how to

get older your metabolism slows down or you don’t have

promote wellness and deal with stress while you are taking

the stamina you used to have at the gym anymore. Strug-

the hormones. When you focus on health, the less medi-

gling joints and muscles are common signs you need help.

cations you’ll have to be on. They want help you prevent

BHRT will get you moving comfortably with all the energy

disease and keep your tissues young so you can live a long,

you’ll have. Recently more women are coming in with thy-

happy life.

{

Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy will reduce hot flashes, fatigue, depression, mood changes when your hormones are out of whack.

}

Stress can be extremely damaging to your well being and Hormone Replacement has been proven to decrease it. Even the good stress of the holidays

roid problems which can affect your period. In some cases,

can be harsh on your body. It’s stressful to be a host and

birth control pills have negatively affected younger women

cook and clean and decorate for your whole family. Some-

and BHRT can get them back on track. No one wants to

times a certain family member or trying to fit in events is

deal with those issues and you have more important things

the most stressful. It’s stressful to find the perfect gifts and

to do. The doctors at Carolina Healthspan have experience

not spend too much money. City life can be chaotic. Wom-

with it all and not only will make adjustments to your indi-

en especially are constantly comparing their lives to others

vidual program when needed, but will also help you main-

on social media. Dr. Crowder explains what happens in-

tain the benefits once you’ve completed your goal.

ternally: “Little organs called the adrenal glands sit on top

You may be concerned with what the media has said

of your kidneys and when you’re in chronic stressful situa-

about HRT. Hormone Replacement Therapy became con-

tions, it lets your cortisol levels rise and then that puts you

troversial when past studies on the estrogen pill Premarin,

into sleeping problems and in this constant fight or flight.”

made from horse estrogen, revealed an increased risk of

You need to figure out what your emotional triggers are so

heart disease and breast cancer. However, recent medical

you can either learn to prevent them or decide how to co-

advancements, different delivery methods, and higher doc-

operate with them. Dr. Crowder highly recommends yoga

tor-patient standards have shown that though there will al-

and breathing exercises. It can be tough, but pick healthy

ways be risks, HRT is proven safest when using the natural

options during your feasts and be careful not to overdrink.

human form and individualizing treatments. Dr. Brown

Your body’s response to stress will be worse when you’re

discusses this in The Youth Effect, which was purposeful-

not feeding it right.

ly written so it was understandable to the public. It goes

It’s time to live a fulfilling, positive life where your health

into detail on past studies on hormone therapy and how it

isn’t holding you back. Listen to your body. Your hormones

has evolved. The book tells you why he will always stand

could be in dire need of being balanced. If you think this

behind Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy. Pa-

treatment would be beneficial to you, make an appoint-

tients at Carolina Healthspan will have a BHRT specific to

ment with Carolina Healthspan Institute today.

their needs, based on their current state and medical history. They use functional tests not available by a primary care doctor and spend as much time with you as you need to achieve your goals.` In Dr. Crowder’s office there is a sign that says, “Every human being is the master of their own health.” If you need to make a change in your health, you have to put the efDec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

77

A Chalet in Zermatt Switzerland

by Colleen Guilfoile Richmond

W

hat could be better then a dreamy holiday in Switzerland, staying in a magnificent chic chalet with a full staff to wait on you and a state of the art gym? I can’t think of anything...

Zermatt mountain village is one of the most celebrated world-class resorts in the Alps. As a winter resort with superb skiing, stunning luxury ski chalets, amazing food, and shopping with a nightlife scene to match…A ski holiday in Zermatt is truly a unique experience with pretty much everything you could ask for!

Visitors arrive to the resort by a short ride on the iconic red Zermatt train which leaves from the hamlet of Täsch. It’s

a breathtaking ride of beauty.

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From here-in you will be stunned by a winter paradise, with horse-drawn sleighs in the streets of Zermatt village and Zermatt’s surrounding mountain peaks including the infamous Matterhorn.

Skiing in Zermatt is phenomenal for many reasons. The ski resort includes ski areas in Switzerland and Italy and there is always a certainty of snow. It is an ideal resort for any level of skier, from novice to expert.

The après-ski in Zermatt Village is tough to beat. With over 100 restaurants to choose from as well as many bars and nightclubs there is something to surely meet anyone’s requirements.

These restaurants offer a broad range of culinary delights, from high-quality cuisine to traditional Swiss, or Chinese food.

Even if you get hungry while still out on the pistes then there are over 50 mountain restaurants in Zermatt to consider.

Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

79

You don’t have to be a skier to visit, there are endless options available to you. Zermatt village offers a top-class shopping experience. Centered around Bahnhofstrasse (the main downtown shopping street) there is an amazing variety of shops. For entertainment, you could consider the Vernissage which is a cinema, concert venue and club, all in one. There are also a number of pools and wellness facilities and spas in Zermatt.

Zermatt has a large array of private ski chalets to rent, making it a European hot spot for luxury ski holidays.

When you have the opportunity for a holiday with family and friends, you want to ensure that you are as relaxed as possible during your luxury catered chalet holiday. If you are getting away with a slightly larger group than usual, then look no further than the luxury Chalet Zermatt Peak.

Chalet Zermatt Peak is Zermatt’s premier luxury chalet, located just minutes away from the centre of Zermatt, occupying a landmark position and enjoying breathtaking panoramic views across the entire village and mountain ranges as well as uninterrupted views of the iconic Matterhorn.

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Entrance to the chalet is via private lift access and a tunnel. Upon arrival you will be greeted by your chalet staff for a celebratory champagne reception. You will experience standards surpas-sing that of the best 5 star hotels with carefully selected, well trained staff. Once settled into the Chalet, you can sit back, relax and unwind and enjoy a holiday like no other.

After an exhilarating day in the mountains, Chalet Zermatt Peak offers you every chance to relax and unwind with exclusive use of the wellness facilities in the chalet.

You can choose between a sauna or steam bath followed by a soak in the Jacuzzi, which stretches from inside out onto the terrace. A masseuse is on hand to aid any tired muscles, or just relax in one of the lounge chairs and take This is an ultra luxury Swiss Chalet with an official 5 star +

it all in.

rating from the Swiss Hotel Association and Swiss Tourism.

The interior of Chalet Zermatt Peak has set a new standard in luxury chalet accommodations. The chalet has been designed using the very highest quality natural materials and workmanship, incorporating warm colors and focusing on the surrounding landscape and village. The floor to ceiling windows in the lounge make the most of the breathtaking views. The interiors are all designed with unique interior fixtures and fittings which have been sourced from all over the world to make this a truly inspiring chalet that oozes style, luxury and panache. I’m sure you can see yourself there.

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Your personal chef will be on hand to create and serve a mixture of international cuisine. You will be able to watch him cook in the open kitchen using the finest ingredients, all while being served by your personal chalet staff. Breakfast, afternoon tea and full gourmet dinners are all available. There is also al-fresco dining and an external kitchen on the terrace.

There is a fully-equipped gym available with the latest cardiovascular cross trainer, cycle, vibra-tion plate and free weights, which can be followed by a power shower to refresh. There is a B&O cinema, many TV screens of varying sizes located in the lounge, a library and 5 bedrooms.

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The Chef uses only the finest, fresh ingredients, organic and locally sourced where possible.

The chalet staff is there to wait on all your needs, even assisting with the wine selection from the extensive wine cellar. The dining experience at Chalet Zermatt Peak rivals that of any of the best restaurants in the village.

The master bedroom suite covers an entire floor and benefits from a walk-in bathroom, chang-ing room, and private Jacuzzi. All the bedrooms have views of the Matterhorn or village with in-dividual private balconies and terraces.

This dreamy destination is a must add to the travel list.

Proscht!

Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

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POLO Lifestyle Sport of

Kings,

King

of Sports

by Colleen Guilfoile Richmond

P

olo, the sport of kings, is rich with cultural history. I have gone to a lot of polo events and love the tradition and formality of the game. It is a sport where ladies wear stylish dresses and big hats.

Originating in Persia over 2,000 years ago, Polo is one of the oldest team sports in recorded history.

In the very beginning, polo originated as a training

Polo is a family sport. I remember as a child being mes-

game for cavalry units. It was like a mini battle to these

merized watching the game during the summer weekends

warlike tribesmen, who may have played with as many as

at The Fairfield County Hunt Club. I enjoyed walking by

100 players on a side.

the barns that housed these horses thinking how beauti-

The Moguls were then responsible for taking the game

ful they were. There is something exhilarating as a child

from Persia to the East, where it became known as “the

watching this game. As a spectator it evokes all senses. The

sport of kings“.

smell of the horses and grass. The thundering sound the

By the 16th century polo was well established in India.

magnificent animals make sprinting and then stopping on

Here the English Army Officers discovered the game. They

a dime right in front of you. The ping of the polo ball being

would go on to establish the world’s first polo club.

whacked with the mallet, is truly amazing to watch.

Today, there are more than 77 countries across the world that play polo.

When I was older I grew to enjoy the tradition that went with the sport. I would go to the Palm Beach Polo Club. It

There is a verse inscribed on a stone next to a polo

is here that I saw Prince Charles play polo. There is a tra-

ground in Gilgit, Pakistan: Let others play at other things.

dition during half-time (after the third chukker) to stomp

’’The king of sports is still the sport of kings.’’

the divots: spectators are welcomed on the field for divot

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spectators are actually invited to enter the playing field to help players and ponies. Its is also a good time to get acquainted with fellow spectators.

Make sure you allow time before the match to set up a tailgate picnic (this can get extremely elaborate) or to stop at the player’s trailers to look at the polo ponies.

The grooms work hard to make everything run smoothly during a match and have the ponies ready. Note between chukkers how quickly the players go to their trailers, change to fresh ponies and make it back on the field. A player may use 7 ponies in a match.

Dressing for the polo match is just as much of the event stomping—when participants push small patches of grass

as is watching. A chic pair of sunnies are a polo watching

and dirt that are torn up during the game back into the

essential.

ground. In addition to helping keep the ponies and play-

And the recommended color palette is cheery and bright.

ers safe, divot stomping is an opportunity for spectators to

Heels will have you sinking in the grass so always opt for a

stretch their legs and socialize. The menial act is typically

wedge shoe or flats. Hats are still in style, big and floppy.

rewarded with champagne and, at the International Polo

Dressing for the polo match can be tricky, but the standard

Club in Wellington, ice cream bars. The only sport where

attire is always chic.

Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

87

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handmade

in

england

Q&A with Stylist

Q A

Dawn Conner

At what age did you start becoming fascinated with

stays in one’s closet longer and can be worn at any age.

fashion?

There is nothing more appalling then seeing women of a certain age wearing trends that are meant for a

I can’t recall not liking fashion, as a young girl I recall not liking to have things picked out for me, as the 70’s rolled on and in my teens and the early 80’s I definitely acquired my individual taste of style.

Q A

How did you prepare for a career in styling?

Q What is your dream job? dream job, of course is to live and work in Paris A My back when Jacques Fath created, many don’t realize he was the designer who Dior studied under, now Par-

I prepared simply early on by my love of couture

is in those times would have been very interesting. Of

designs in movie’s from the 20’ thru 50’s. I adore the

course I wouldn’t turn down an opportunity to work

fabulous costume legend Edith Head who dressed

and live in Paris today.

everyone through her career, then I begun my vintage clothing collection educating myself on all the designer’s who really started moving fashion. There is nothing more exciting then finding a treasure of exceptional design from the past.

Q A

young girl.

Q The celeb I’d most love to dress is… lady whom I would love to dress is Madame A The Macon first lady of France. I have seen how ordinary she dresses and know that she needs to have some

How do you stay updated on the current trends?

help for public appearances. I think she is lovely.

I don’t really like to follow trends, I find trends are just vintage copies that recycle. I think classic fashion Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

89

Q A

I’m dying to splurge on…

I would splurge on the fall collection Chanel is showing. This Pink tweed coat is everything.

Q The designers that never disappoint include…

Lagerfeld never disappoints, d-esigner Hoang A Karl Minh Ha of Vietnam is the designer to look at. His couture is amazing. I would love to bring him more to

the public. He is simply amazing. Please look him up.

Q The most treasured item in my closet is… most treasured item in my closet is my vintage A My Q What is the best way to book an appointment with Alfred Shaheen red komono. I rarely wear color but this is a divine piece.

Q I would never be caught dead wearing…

I would never be caught wearing anything that I don’t A feel is my own style. I have to be who I am, I just after all have my own love for simple black with great acces-

you?

You can reach me by phone or email.

(312)619-7292, fashionweekparis2015@gmail.com.

sories on and a good pair of heels.

D J | C O R P O R AT E | W EDDIN G S A N D MORE contact 980.858.JADE or djclayajade@gmail.com 90

Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

ZODiAC Manish’s Zodiac Signs Predictions for

Dec 2017/Jan 2018 ZODiAC ZODiAC Aquarius

Pisces

( 20 January – 18 February )

( 19 February – 20 March )

Your energy, charisma and luck remain high. But most forward initiatives will tend to go in circles this period. So apply your skills and energy to things from the past that demand attention. Solving these will leave you free to shoot forward. Your relations with others will turn deeper, more significant, more life altering - and more creative, romantic, adventurous. Your career faces lucky vibes; higher-ups will favor you. An old flame might contact you, with romantic intent. Co-workers remain pleasant, affectionate and work would be easy.

If you have been thinking about investing in a certain company for a while now, or thinking about buying stock in a new product, you should rest your decision and place it the way that it is, because it means you are viewing the situation with the finest clarity. If you are single it may be time for you to settle down and start a family. This becomes especially potent if your relationship has been becoming progressively more serious. You will have to take care of your health problems in order to remain as a strong figure in the family.

Favourable Dates : Dec 1, 3, 10, 12, 19, 21 Jan 2, 6, 11, 15, 20, 24 Favourable Colors : Red & Blue

Favourable Dates : Dec 3, 4, 12, 13, 21, 22 Jan 4, 7, 13, 16, 22, 25 Favourable Colors : Red & White

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91

ZODiAC

DiAC

ZODiAC ZODiAC

Aries

Gemini

( 21 March – 19 April )

( 21 May – 20 June)

A new phase is about to begin in which your logical, rational mind would be developed and used positively. All proposals or offers should be carefully considered before a final decision is made. Clear thinking and caution are called for.

The spirit of adventure and action is about to enter your life.There is a focus on perception, and you may be involved in a secretive situation that requires skills of observation, devotion and subtlety. Expect some advantageous thoughts, ideas and/or plans to do with business or the financial sector.

You would be a dependable force for others, and you are always ready to take charge of a situation that requires a solid force. This period suggests a renewed sense of hope that is helping you refocus on what is most important to you. You will be cultivating your inner truth. Listen to the guiding light from within.

While a sense of stability is important for you, you may sometimes struggle with change or uncertainty.

It is time to move on. Share that joy and wisdom that you have gained through a deeper understanding of your spirituality.

Favourable Dates : Dec 6, 9, 15, 18, 24, 27 Jan 3, 7, 12, 16, 21, 25 Favourable Colors : Yellow & Red

Favourable Dates : Dec 2, 6, 11, 15, 20, 24 Jan 7, 9, 16, 18, 25, 27 Favourable Colors : Yellow & Red

Taurus

Cancer

Signs Predictions for

MBER 2016

www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com ( 21 June – 22 July )

( 20 April – 20 May )

|

November 2016

There would be period of change fortunes and you should show compassion to those less fortunate. It may also indicate a clean break or finishing with a troublesome or tiresome issue, situation or relationship. Take the utmost caution when undertaking any new venture at this time, particularly if you will be dealing with people who you do not know well. You will be receiving sound counsel from an older person unrelated to yourself, which allows you to see more clearly the steps needed to get to where you want to be.

Favourable Dates : Dec 4, 7, 13, 16, 22. 25 Jan 4, 8, 13, 17, 22, 26 Favourable Colors : Yellow & Red

The time for recognition and success at work are coming soon for you. Strive to be productive and organised at work. You are very likely to strike up conversations with compatible people.

Several prestige trends culminate now, which might lift you on their slender wings. If you’re already attached, this period bring coziness, intimacy and warmth: You’ll feel loved and nurtured. If you are single you might meet exciting people who could join you for a bit of casual nesting. Get to know people, and you’ll get to know your own heart.

Favourable Dates : Dec 3, 7, 12, 16, 21, 25 Jan 2, 8, 11, 17, 20, 29 Favourable Colors : Green & Red

92

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November 2016

|

www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

e.com

Leo

Libra

( 23 July – 22 August )

( 23 September – 22 October )

Your ability to negotiate circumstances that are not to your liking is magnified tenfold. Now is the time for you to balance your emotional self, your spiritual self and your physical desires so that they do not control you. If you’re not careful, you could enter this period feeling really paranoid. rather than what bad influences are trying to distract you with.

You’re feeling more psychic about your life too and, for once, you can afford to trust in what you are feeling. Some will be rushing into new relationships.

The time has come to receive the gifts in recognition of the hard work you have done. You’re at the top of your game - energetic, charismatic, effective and decisive. Start important projects, ask for favors, present proposals and suggestions, see and be seen. Get social - extend and answer invitations, mingle, laugh and enjoy yourself. It’s a great period to examine your future and create optimistic plans.

What was a hope or hinted at the last few weeks grows fulsome and vibrant. You’re in a period destined for pleasure, creativity and romance.

Favourable Dates : Dec 1, 5, 10, 14, 19, 23 Jan 4, 7, 12, 16, 23, 31 Favourable Colors : White & Blue

Favourable Dates : Dec 4, 6, 13, 15, 22, 24 Jan 5, 7, 14, 16, 23, Favourable Colors : Yellow & Purple

Virgo

Scorpio

( 23 August – 22 September )

( 23 October – 21 November )

In profession, what you are seeing are beautiful illusions that need time and effort to become more concrete. Money is racing through your fingers - close them, grasp. Prepare to save a little more conscientiously, or at least to separate your friends and social life from your bank account. There is the sense of abandoning an emotional relationship. It”s time to find your real joy as opposed to something that you’ve accepted as being good enough. Whether for relationship or career choices, look at all the options and wait a little longer.

Favourable Dates : Dec 3, 7, 12, 16, 21, 25 Jan 1, 8, 10, 17, 19, 26 Favourable Colors : Red & Green

It is not time for something new to be undertaken. Start only short projects that won’t need a big push and spend this period putting everything in order. Life’s movement has temporarily paused. This time can be frustrating or it can be used to gain greater contentment. If you want to move forward in any area of your life, use this time to examine what you may need to sacrifice in order to go ahead. It is a time to shake up your beliefs, abandon your conventions and throw caution to the wind.

Favourable Dates : Dec 1, 3, 10, 12, 19, 21 Jan 6, 9, 15, 18, 24, 27 Favourable Colors : Red & Blue Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

93

ww

ZODiAC ZODiAC Sagittarius

Capricorn

( 22 November -21 December )

( 22 December – 19 January )

There is some imbalance in your life and you need to correct it. You need to be calm and rational, and analyze your lives to locate the missing pieces, and put them in place. You need to be clear about what is the right thing to do, else it will be a futile exercise.

Chase only old or returning opportunities, not new ones. If you make a commitment or a lifestyle change now, it will succeed splendidly for awhile, but ultimately wrestle you into disappointment. So take care, be “light” – protect rather than expand.

Favourable Dates : Dec 1, 2, 10, 11, 19, 20 Jan 2, 5, 11, 14, 20, 23 Favourable Colors : Yellow & Purple

It is time to be ambitious, display your skills, contact higher-ups, boost your community status, join service clubs, etc. The period urges you to become aware of your inner world whether it is through spirituality or religious practice. You are searching for the meaning of your life through spirituality, and may be developing yourselves based on ethical beliefs.. Your intuition regarding family, property, security and such matters rises strongly all period.. Pay attention to small clues. Love requires you to make a sacrifice, and possibly a life change.

Favourable Dates : Dec 3, 5, 12, 14, 21, 23 Jan 4, 6, 13, 15, 22, 24 www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com November Favourable Colors : |Red & Blue 2016 87

Kumar is a renowned KP Manish Kumar Arora is aManish renowned KP Arora Astrologer, Numerologist, Astrologer, Numerologist, Tarot Reder & Vastu Tarot Reader & Vastu Consultant. hasrendering been rendering profesConsultant.

He hasHe been professional advice clients withdegree a reasonable degree sional advice to clients with to a reasonable of success.

Heof has success. been conferred with the title of 'Jyotish Varahamihir' and 'Jyotish He has been conferred with the title of 'Jyotish Aryabhatt.' HeVarahamihir' has been writing monthlyAryabhatt.' astrological and 'Jyotish Hecolumns has beenfor writing monthly astrological columns for many many international magazines. international magazines.

www.facebook.com/manishastroconsultant

94 Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com | November 2016 87 88 November 2016 | www.CharlotteGirlMagazine.com

manish@manishastrologer.com

Dec/Jan 2017-18 | www.LuxeLifestyleMag.com

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