Dolce Vita Magazine Toronto Winter 2011

DELVE INTO 2012 WITH CANADIAN DESIGNER

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LIFE LESSONS FROM A DRAGON :

HILARY WESTON INVITES US INTO HER HOME PLUS

SPLENDID FOOD, OBJECTS OF DESIRE & RETAIL THERAPY

ARLENE DICKINSON

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‘‘ I

publisher’s note

HAVE FOUND THAT AMONG ITS OTHER BENEFITS, GIVING LIBERATES THE SOUL OF THE – Maya Angelou GIVER.

Welcome to my favourite issue and time of year.

T

’’

he winter edition of Dolce Magazine delivers some great stories that all share an invisible thread that binds them together. It’s an underlying lesson shared by some outstanding protagonists about the true power of giving and personal engagement.

WINTER 2011/12 • Volume 15 • Issue 4 www.dolce.ca PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Michelle Zerillo-Sosa • michelle@dolce.ca MANAGING EDITOR

Madeline Stephenson • madeline@dolce.ca DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS & MARKETING

Angela Palmieri-Zerillo • angela@dolce.ca DIRECTOR OF NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Susan Bhatia • susan@dolce.ca ART DEPARTMENT CO-FOUNDER/CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Fernando Zerillo • fernando@dolce.ca SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

We were ecstatic to be welcomed to Hilary Weston’s home for an up-close-and personal encounter with the honourable woman. Her achievements include chair of the Renaissance ROM Campaign, lieutenant-governor of Ontario, and deputy chair of the board of Holt Renfrew.

I have to admit, I was a bit nervous while waiting in her sitting room with editor Madeline Stephenson. I was happy to discover both my regular breathing pattern and how lovely she is once the interview began. I soon came to see that Hilary Weston’s grace does not come from her impeccable sense of style or her articulate speech or her surroundings, but from within. Her secret to true beauty radiates from her soul – it’s a glow that emanates from her powerful gifting nature (see story p. 24).

Christina Ban, Omar Cushnie GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Serafino Catallo WEB PROJECT MANAGER

Steve Bruno EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT BEAUTY/HEALTH & TRAVEL EDITOR

Angela Palmieri-Zerillo FASHION & HOME DECOR EDITOR

Michelle Zerillo-Sosa SENIOR WRITER AND COPY EDITOR

Simona Panetta PROOFREADER

If you’re thinking, ‘Well, it’s easy to give away so much when you are part of the second richest family in Canada,’ I invite you to stop this line of thought and ponder on how the power of giving does not come about by merely writing a cheque. True giving holds a deeper meaning. Even back in the day when Weston was in her governmental role, she fought to bring awareness to youth homelessness and women’s rights.

Another example of giving comes from Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed. The pair helped to raise $3 million for Toronto’s SickKids Foundation at the fourth annual Rally for Kids with Cancer charity event. The whole room was amazed to see them add on to the live auction bids (see p. 16).

Perhaps Abigail Disney, grandniece of Walt Disney, illustrates this phenomenon best when she says: “A lot of people give away the froth of their cappuccino. Why stop there?” (see story p. 64).

Simona Panetta WRITERS

Michael Hill, Madeline Stephenson CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Michael Bonacini, Brian Gluckstein, Peter Oliver, Ray Zahab CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Michelle Levy CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Larry Arnal, JC Photography & Co., Vincent Lions, Christoph Strube, Eniko Szucs VIDEO DEPARTMENT VIDEO EDITOR

William Lem INTERN

Sal Pasqua PUBLISHER

Keeping with the spirit of giving, you will surely enjoy the suggestions of our guest editors Brian Gluckstein, Peter Oliver and Michael Bonacini, and Ray Zahab.

Their tips will expand your home and lifestyle for the holidays and beyond.

My wish this holiday season and in the new year is for you to find your own power of giving and personal engagement, for that is the true meaning of living La Dolce Vita!

ADVERTISING ADVERTISING INQUIRIES

T: 905.264.6789 Toll Free: 1.888.68.DOLCE info@dolce.ca • www.dolce.ca OFFICE MANAGER & SENIOR ACCOUNTS MANAGER

Lina Posteraro

Michelle Zerillo-Sosa Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Aleksandra Gorovic FRONT COVER Hilary Weston

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Photo By Dean West

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WINTER 2011/12 • Volume 15 • Issue 4 www.dolce.ca DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE • WINTER 2011 /12 VOLUME 15 • ISSUE 4

Dolce Vita Magazine is published quarterly by Dolce Publishing Inc. 111 Zenway Blvd., Suite 30 Vaughan, Ont., L4H 3H9 T: 905.264.6789 • Toll-Free: 1.888.68.DOLCE F: 905.264.3787 • info@dolce.ca www.dolce.ca Publication Mail Agreement No. 40026675

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Dolce Vita Magazine reaches over 900,000 affluent readers annually through household distribution and newsstand sales across Canada and at all Barnes & Noble stores in the United States. Inquiries about where else Dolce Vita Magazine is available for sale should be directed to Transmedia Group Customer Service: 905.428.7541 The yearly subscription fee is $16.80. Send cheque or money order to Dolce Publishing Inc. 111 Zenway Blvd., Suite 30, Vaughan, Ont. Canada L4H 3H9 ISSN 1206-1778 NEXT ISSUE: SPRING 2012

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The opinions expressed in Dolce Vita Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or advertisers.

Dolce Publishing Inc. does not assume liability for content. The material in this magazine is intended for information purposes only and is no way intended to supersede professional advice.

We are proud to be a Canadian company that has successfully published magazines for the past 15 years without any government funding or financial assistance of programs to cover editorial costs. It has all been possible thanks to the wonderful support of our readers and advertisers.

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REVIVING 5,000 YEARS OF CIVILIZATION

ALL-NEW PROGRAM WITH LIVE ORCHESTRA

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Departments ON THE COVER

24 Hilary Weston on art, philanthropy, and the family name

SUCCESS STORY

34 Arlene Dickinson’s ‘principled persuasion’ moves beyond the smoke and mirrors 36 Pusateri’s Fine Foods looks to a golden horizon 44 Joe Mimran expands Joe Fresh in an industry where image is everything 60 The Retail Therapy of Lee Ann Sauter’s Seaside Luxe

FASHION

48 All that Glitters is Gold with the season’s shimmering couture and jewelry 52 His Essentials: Button-up with top-shelf finds

36

FAB HOTEL

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64 Abigail Disney’s Power of Personal Engagement

REAL ESTATE

31 Monuments to Luxury: Pick your palace in the kingdom of Toronto

HOME DECOR

30 The King of Eclectic: The dramatic approach of NordSouth Interiors 54 Delve into 2012 with renowned Canadian designer and guest editor Brian Gluckstein

LIVING LA DOLCE VITA

22 Endless sunsets by the sea with Bauer Hotel’s Francesca Bortolotto Possati

AUTOMOTIVE

58 The Jaguar XKR-S has claws, and it wants the world to know it

BEAUTY

TRAVEL

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

FOOD & WINE

IN EVERY ISSUE

39 Restaurant Scene: Tickle your taste buds with a succulent dining experience 40 Illuminate your palate with guest food editors Peter Oliver and Michael Bonacini

48

PHILANTHROPY

20 Suite Dreams at Manoir Hovey: A Relais & Châteaux mansion with a century-old biography 32 Running Wild with guest adventurer editor Ray Zahab

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62 Crystal pops, sci-fi bikinis, and other Objects of Desire

THE HOT LIST

42 PR Maven Stewart MacPhee puts his spin on his favourite things

LUXURY

43 Crème de la Card: Blackout on Bloor with American Express www.dolcemag.com

14 The New Face of Guerlain: Michelle Yeoh 46 Meet Mac Cosmetics’ latest muse 16 Dolce VIP Parties: Rally for Kids, Navillus Gallery Grand Opening and 133 Hazelton 6 12 12 65

Publisher’s Note Editor’s Note Guest Editors Readers’ Survey: This is your chance to WIN fabulous prizes 66 Horoscope: Find out what the stars have in store for you this winter

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editor’s note

GUEST EDITORS

‘‘

Everything has its wonders, even darkness and silence, and I learn, whatever state I may be in, therein to be content.

– Helen Keller

MADELINE STEPHENSON MANAGING EDITOR

As

’’

you may already know, one of the questions we often ask the people we profile is: “How do you live the sweet life?” For me, it’s those silent seconds snuggled between question and answer that often speak louder than the words that follow.

It doesn’t matter who it is, whether a business mogul, a philanthropist, a chef or a designer, a shift in spirit takes place. For our cover woman Hilary Weston, that question was followed by a candid smile, a break in eye contact, and a moment of quiet contemplation. “I think it isn’t just one thing, because curiosity brings you into so many different areas,” she says.

And there lies the beauty in that seemingly simple question. The greatest answers can be heard in silence, expressed through art, sewn together with a needle and thread or masterfully prepared on a plate. It means many things to many people, can be observed in many ways, and emanate different colours day-to-day. In an industry that’s founded on the wonders of storytelling, I hope that this issue and spellbinding season puts you in the right frame of mind to have your own silent nights of reflection.

Madeline Stephenson Managing Editor

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egular readers of Dolce Vita know that “the sweet life” is a subjective idea. For some, it may mean a relaxing night of fine dining.

Perhaps it’s surveying and appreciating a captivating décor. And for others, it’s taking nature head-on and living each day as it was the last. These three contributors will give you a taste of each, and bring some serious spice to your life.

PETER OLIVER AND MICHAEL BONACINI FOOD

When you’ve scaled the ranks to the top of Toronto’s dining scene, there’s no question you know a thing or two about food. In “Illuminate Your Palate” (p. 40), Peter Oliver and Michael Bonacini, two of the city’s most celebrated culinary entrepreneurs, share with us their favourite three courses from four of their renowned restaurants. From Auberge du Pommier’s Huîtres and Caviar to Luma’s Opera Cake, these succulent meals will make you melt.

RAY ZAHAB

TRAVEL When thinking of travel, most turn to sandy beaches or European excursions. In “Running Wild” (p. 32), extreme adventurer Ray Zahab takes us through the paces of his radical journeys across remote locals, including a 7,500-kilometre run across the Sahara Desert and 650-km jaunt over a frozen Siberia lake. These treks aren’t just for thrills, though. Zahab embarks on these quests to inspire, raise awareness and funds for various causes, including climate change and African water projects.

BRIAN GLUCKSTEIN

DESIGN If you’re gaga over interior design, than “Inside Design” (p. 54) is a must-read.

Internationally renowned Canadian designer Brian Gluckstein peers into his coveted crystal ball, providing a glimpse into the trends that will be decking the halls in 2012.

An eclectic mix of styles and furnishings from various periods will add pizzazz to your abode, giving your home a new and exciting esthetic. From French chairs to Asian wallpaper, Gluckstein’s recommendations are not to be missed.

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hen actress and producer Michelle Yeoh – known for her role in such films as Tomorrow Never Dies and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon – hit the red carpet at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) this past September, there was a distinct, seductive scent that followed. The aroma was the unmistakable fragrance of renowned cosmetic house Maison Guerlain. Yeoh has recently been named Guerlain’s brand ambassador, the new face of the 183 year-old French cosmetics company, and the fit couldn’t be better. “Michelle will be our guide to introduce our Asian clients to the enchanted world of our perfume creations,” says Guerlain CEO Laurent Boillot in a press release. “This makes me very proud and happy.” www.guerlain.com

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ear you whispered, but into my heart. It was not my lips you kissed, but my soul.” ~ Judy Garland

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Dolce VIP Parties

ALLY FOR KIDS 1

WRITTEN BY MADELINE STEPHENSON

5

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ith the support of fellow celebrities, entrepreneurs and philanthropists, honorary co-chairs Gene Simmons and new wife Shannon Tweed helped raise more than $3 million for Toronto’s SickKids Foundation at the fourth annual Rally for Kids with Cancer charity event.

2

This inspiring charity weekend that was launched in 2008

by Joel Hock of Solutions with Impact has since spread to Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami and Las Vegas. Top fundraisers included local entrepreneurs Oliver Bock of Solutions 2 Go Inc., who rallied almost $550,000; and event sponsor Warren Irwin of Rosseau Asset Management Ltd., 7 who raised over $400,000. “Anything to do with children is extremely important and it should be important to everyone in the world,” says Bock. “Little by little, various cancers are getting more survivable for the kids, so it’s a great cause,” adds Irwin.

3 4

Rally for Kids with Cancer continues to drive home the importance of giving back.

“Let’s not lose sight of the fact that although this is all glitz and glamour, it really is about kids who are suffering badly, immensely, with cancer, and we should all do our parts,” says Simmons. www.rallyforkids.ca

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1. Robert Herjavec of Dragons’ Den and actress Sofia Milos. 2. Isaiah Mustafa (The Old Spice Guy) and Joey Mazzuco, SickKids ambassador. 3. Actors Anne Heche and James Tupper. 4. CFL alumnus Damon Allen, Rookie Blue actor Lyriq Bent and Farley Flex. 5. Warren Irwin and model Rachelle Wilde. 6. Singer-songwriter Chantal Kreviazuk and Our Lady Peace frontman Raine Maida. 7. Toronto Argonauts vice-chair Michael (Pinball) Clemons with wife, Diane Williams. 8. Constance Shaw of Cushman & Wakefield Ltd.; Shannon Tweed and Nicole Davis. 9. Gene Simmons, Warren Irwin, founder of Rosseau Asset Management Ltd.; Shannon Tweed.

10. Ferris Rafauli, president and founder of Grandeur Luxury Homes; musician Kardinal Offishall. 11. Kim Williams, actor Eric Roberts and Jim Williams, CEO and president of Williams Telecommunications. 12. CSI: Miami’s Jonathan Togo. 13. Joel Hock, founder of Rally for Kids with Cancer Foundation and president of Solutions with Impact with wife, Lisa Hock. 14. Rally for Kids with Cancer celebrities and drivers.

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N

AVILLUS

GALLERY GRAND OPENING

WRITTEN BY MADELINE STEPHENSON

As

1

the lights in Yorkville’s upscale restaurants began to dim for the dinner rush, the Barton Myers-designed clock tower building on Davenport Road beams brightly to illuminate walls of masterful artwork. On Oct. 25, 2011, collectors, artists and inquisitive crowds gathered for the grand opening of Navillus Gallery, where food, friends and wine flowed freely. Founded by two seasoned art collectors and curated by Taylor Sullivan, Navillus Gallery is filled with a range of pieces that would fit into both formative and established collections.

From baroque and Renaissance to impressionist and contemporary, guests of the affair admired a mix of works on paper, photographs and canvases while mingling with artists like Jasmina Danowski, Pasquale Cuppari and Catherine Mills. The gallery debuts with an exhibition called “Decadence and Austerity,” which puts forth a thrilling juxtaposition of two extreme themes. www.navillusgallery.com 4

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1. Ed Collins, vice president and portfolio manager, Wellington West Capital; Susan Collins, arts patron 2. Kevin Sullivan, writer/director, CEO, Sullivan Entertainment, Sandy Skotnicki, medical director of Bay Dermatology Centre; Trudy Grant, CEO, Sullivan Entertainment International 3. Guests at the Navillus Gallery grand opening 4. Norman Raschkowan, executive vice-president for Mackenzie Financial Corporation and Kate Raschkowan 5. Susan Bhatia, director of new business development of Dolce Publishing Inc., Michelle Zerillo-Sosa, co-founder and publisher of Dolce Publishing Inc., and Robin Turack 6. Rick Hiebert, art consultant and appraiser, Greg Latremoille, president, Private Client Group, Beutel Goodman & Co. Ltd. 7. Gregory S. Belton, chairman, HUB International and Taylor Sullivan, curator, Navillus Gallery 8. Salvatore M. Badali, partner at Odgers Berndtson, Dawne DuVernet, Peter-Paul DuVernet, counsel at Glaholt LLP Barristers and Solicitors.

133 HAZELTON

WRITTEN BY MICHELLE LEVY

2

5

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1 6

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1 Michelle Levy 2. Developer Sam Mizrahi and designer 1.

B Brian Gluckstein 3. Fernando Zerillo, Susan Bhatia and A Ajay Bhatia 4. Prima ballerina Veronica Tennant and Ted B Burnett 5. Ariella Rohringer and Judy Osten 6. Heather an and Max Gotlieb 7. Lauren Wise and Micki Mizrahi 8 8. Sam and Doris Lau.

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gathering of society, business tycoons, celebrities and media celebrated the opening of 133 Hazelton. Champagne flowed and 8 fabulous cocktail cuisine was served throughout the night. Located at the corner of Hazelton and Davenport in Yorkville and designed by Brian Gluckstein, the 35 residences and three townhomes of 133 Hazelton will be ready for occupancy December 2014. 133 Hazelton will be true to the Mizrahi Khalili philosophy, that it’s not just about an alignment of architectural elements, but also about how service meets needs. There will be a fitness retreat, an entertainment suite, guest accommodations and a 24/7 concierge, which will deliver the service of a boutique hotel. www.133hazelton.com

www.dolcemag.com

EVENT COVERAGE PRODUCED BY MICHELLE LEVY PRODUCTIONS

3

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Fab

Manoir Hovey’s snow-white lakefront exterior in the midst of winter’s wonderment.

HOTEL

SUITE DREAMS AT MANOIR HOVEY WRITTEN BY MADELINE STEPHENSON

The Heron suite's modern bathroom has a soothing steam shower and soaker tub with jets.

Executive chef Roland Ménard, left, and chef Francis Wolf in Manoir Hovey’s stately library.

Chef Ménard's delectable breakfast of french toast, fresh raspberries, orange peel and whipped cream.

A

ntiquated cottages, sweeping hills and the Precambrian rock of the Canadian Shield capture the historic charm of a former farming community while striking a balance between the familiar and the faraway. Neither a picturesque Via Rail ride from Toronto nor a scenic 90-minute drive from Montreal braces us for the beguiling beauty that awaits at Manoir Hovey in North Hatley, Quebec.

Rows of white birch trees line the periphery of Rue Hovey, lending significance to the five-star property’s preceding name: The Birches. That’s what Henry Atkinson decided to call the grounds when the U.S. businessman acquired it at the turn of the century.

His vision of building a private estate 20

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summer home modelled after President George Washington’s house at Mount Vernon in Virginia is still alive today with its wraparound verandas and snow-white siding. When The Birches was sold in 1950 to a hotelier, the property was transformed into an inn.

The Stafford family soon took over, and has been welcoming guests to Manoir Hovey for over three decades.

Situated on 1,700 feet of lush English gardens and the secluded shore of Lake Massawippi, the resort inn’s commanding views and French country interiors gush with its hundred-year biography at every turn. Before being given a tour of the 42-suite property by a congenial young man referred to as JD, we’re greeted by the maître d’hôtel, Franck Trutet, whose international experience includes acting as restaurant manager for renowned chef Gordon Ramsay. After taking in Manoir Hovey’s outdoor tennis court and swimming pools, traditional library, award-winning Le Hatley Restaurant and the Tap Room enriched by wood beams and a 10,000-brick fireplace, we reach a two-acre hilltop where a completely isolated Heron suite with panoramic views is perched. What instantly impresses after pushing past the doors is the haute contemporary design and large-scale windows that flood the cottage-like space with natural light. Other suite highlights include a Muskoka room with Jacuzzi steam showers, bleached hardwood www.dolcemag.com

flooring and a crackling wood fireplace in the spacious bedroom; a flat-screen TV and stunning lake views.

Later that evening a lightly lit winding stairway takes us down the bluff to Manoir Hovey’s award-winning restaurant. The sommelier’s impressive knowledge of wine is topped off by his sense of humour. “It’s full-bodied, yet refined, just like me,” quips Yanick Lallier, while pouring a bright red complement to executive chef Roland Ménard’s filet mignon, roasted vegetables, risotto and soubise sauce. “I think that my plates represent the calm you can find here, because sometimes I’m taking a walk outside and I just look to the lake and my mind feels relaxed and it gives me ideas,” says Ménard, who’s received several rewards in his 30-year tenure at the inn, including top prize for best chef in Quebec at the Gold Medal Plates competition. When it comes to dishing on the Manoir Hovey experience, Ménard does it just as well. “I think people who come here are going to be very surprised.

They will find something they don’t see anywhere else.”

As nightfall casts a scintillating spell over Lake Massawippi, there’s a sense that the stars are within reach. This old-world oasis in Quebec is proof that you don’t have to travel far to feel like you’re a million miles away. www.manoirhovey.com

Dolce Vita

I AM LIVING La

THE OWNER OF ONE OF VENICE’S MOST LUXURIOUS HOTELS TALKS HISTORY, HAPPINESS AND LA DOLCE VITA.

Francesca Bortolotto Possati is the chairwoman and CEO of the Bauers Hotel Group in Venice, Italy. Many consider the original Bauer Hotel – opened in 1880 – to be the city’s finest, and it’s thanks to her watchful eye that the Bauer continues to be the premier Venetian destination for royalty, ambassadors and film stars alike. www.bauervenezia.com

DV:

What makes your hotel unique?

FBP: How many items can I mention? I’ll try to

stick to four: history, location, family heritage, and a full team whose passion makes the customer experience unforgettable.

Which aspect of the hotel do you love the most?

DV:

FBP: Because of the fact that the Bauer has

been growing over the last 150 years, adding and accumulating different buildings, walking through the premises makes you live and recall history of the past in the present.

If you had to pack only three things, what would they be?

DV:

FBP: Pair of jeans, white shirt and high heels …

and a toothbrush, too.

What is one of your fondest childhood memories?

DV:

WRITTEN BY MICHAEL HILL

FBP: When my grandfather smiled at me and

was pleased by my accomplishments.

DV:

Define happiness.

FBP: Happiness is not a state that I specifically

look for. I find myself happy whenever I realize that people around me feel good because of my care.

If you could change one thing about the hospitality industry, what would it be?

DV:

FBP: Standardization. International chains might

help travellers know what they can expect, but they might as well take away the value of identity and the pleasure of discovering local style, culture and beauty.

Giving back to society is important because ...

DV:

FBP: We are passing through life trying to make

the best of it, to share and build links to the next generation. As Mother Teresa said: The best way to bypass your anxieties is to devote yourself to others’ needs.

Francesca Bortolotto Possati, chairwoman and CEO of the Bauers Hotel Group, stands at the gates of Villa F, one of the various properties she’s added to the Bauer umbrella over the years.

Complete the sentence: My idea of living la dolce vita is ...

DV:

FBP: Endless summer sunsets by the sea with

caipirinha, music and friends.

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IT’S ITALIAN W W W. M O L I S A N A . C O M

Hilary Weston in her Toronto living room.

Weston ELEVATION In an exclusive Canadian interview, Hilary Weston discusses contemporary art, Renaissance philanthropy and her avant-garde family from the comfort of her Toronto home.

WRITTEN BY MADELINE STEPHENSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY DEAN WEST

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H

ilary Weston’s mellifluous voice and refined presence cast a shadow on a regal living room that would otherwise demand the attention of a curious eye. Donning an elegant navy blue Oscar de la Renta dress in her west-facing central Toronto home, the Weston matriarch proceeds to explain the perennial importance of the Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec poster across from her. With one foot dipped in Virginia Woolf’s stream of consciousness, her insightful prose shed light on what lies behind the lone crayon-drawn horse. “It’s just a few lines, but this is what drawings make in your mind. You can see 20 horses in there because they give you the feeling that there are other people in that picture and the sense of what might be going on, like a parade and the crowds,” says Weston, her hands oscillating as if conducting the orchestra that filters through the frame.

While Weston’s love of the arts is certainly no secret, there are many kept-to-the-chest nuances about the erstwhile lieutenant-governor of Ontario and philanthropic wife of billionaire retail baron W. Galen Weston that only surface at second glance.

Before Galen entered the picture, Hilary Frayne – daughter of an appliance salesman – had a vibrant middle-class upbringing in Dublin, Ireland. She was particularly drawn to the work of the Bloomsbury Group, a famous circle of English authors, painters and intellectuals that included the great Woolf, Vita Sackville-West, Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant, the artist who created one of her very first pieces. “It was a voyage of discovery through reading that finally brought me to be interested in art,” she says. While working as a fashion model around that time, she caught the eye of Galen, who came to Ireland to set up a grocery chain.

He was following suit in the entrepreneurial successes of his grandfather George and father Garfield, who thrived in the food industry. A few years later, the two married, simultaneously sparking a union of art that, among a list of things, would later transmit to their children, Alannah and Galen Jr. “We became very interested in drawings per se, so we started to collect French and Italian Renaissance earlier drawings … In those days it was what one could afford, and we felt very fortunate to have been able to buy them at the time because prices for paintings were crazy,” says Weston, whose last name currently sits second on the list of Canada’s wealthiest, with an estimated net-worth of $8 billion, according to Canadian Business magazine. www.dolcemag.com

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Alannah vividly remembers growing up in a house where the walls could talk, particularly in the green language of new realism artist Christo, whose work her parents avidly collected. “Ever since I was a little kid I was surrounded by conceptual art, so I remember writing my final exam at Havergal [College] all about Christo and trying to defend the fact that his art was ephemeral, it was temporary even though it cost millions of dollars to create, and then it was gone within a few days,” says Alannah. She has been lauded as a transformative force in her current creative director role at Selfridges, the high-end British department chain her father famously added to an empire that encompasses Loblaw Companies Limited and Holt Renfrew & Co. in 2003. Coincidentally, it was Alannah who would introduce her parents to the world of contemporary art, which she discovered during her studies at the University of Oxford and subsequent stretch as an arts-beat journalist for London’s The Daily Telegraph. “It’s all my fault,” she says, laughing in her sprightly tone while looking back on her mother’s amusement when she would come for a visit and find video installations in the bathroom.

Alannah’s laugh elevates and reddens when she tells the story of the time she posed nude for her friend, artist and photographer Beth Derbyshire. “I posed for her undergraduate degree work and my dad was a little shocked so he ended up buying all of the work … so that was a great introduction!”

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ith the curatorial influence of her daughter, Weston’s newfound affection for contemporary art would inevitably become the pulse of a private residential community her and Galen Sr. established in Vero Beach, Florida more than two decades ago. As creative director, Weston was at the helm when ground broke on Windsor, a 416-acre “village by the sea.” Consisting of 350 uniquely designed luxury home sites, its complementary grounds reflect Weston’s affinity for architecture and horticulture. Windsor was built by Andrés Duany and Elizabeth PlaterZyberk, architects of the new urbanism 26

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As if sitting for the late Lucian Freud, Hilary Weston poses with polish.

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movement, on a verdant barrier island between the Indian River and the Atlantic Ocean. “Everything there was designed by my parents, really carefully, to kind of reflect all the essential human needs. So, of course, it’s a very privileged place, but at the end of the day, no matter how we live we all want to live in communities, we want to live close by each other, we want places to go to eat, to meet our friends, we want to play; we want to be inspired, and I guess art is part of that,” says Alannah, which is why she made a monumental move in adding a not-for-profit art gallery to Windsor in 2002 while filling in for her mother, who was serving her final year as lieutenant-governor of Ontario at the time. Suffused with natural light, The Gallery at Windsor has featured the works of important contemporary artists such as Peter Doig, Ed Ruscha and Alex Katz. Even the Weston family’s eccentric leading man Christo and his wife, the now-late Jeanne-Claude, have been by for a discussion. Of all its achievements, it’s Weston’s newest project that has her on the edge of her seat.

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t’s an idea that came to light under a veil of stars at Windsor when the Westons were hosting Iwona Blazwick, director of the Whitechapel Gallery, London’s centuryold art space acclaimed for premiering modern icons like Jackson Pollock and Pablo Picasso. “It just flowed over dinner one night,” says Weston of the conversation that led to a curatorial collaboration in which Whitechapel Gallery will bring three annual exhibitions to The Gallery at Windsor.

“In a way it’s kind of paradoxical,” says Blazwick. “We are absolute opposites: the Whitechapel Gallery is in the eastend of London, it is the most dense, urban, edgy location you could possibly imagine, you know, the sirens never stop … so this seemed like a really exciting idea to go to a place which was like paradise: it’s tropical, it’s on the ocean, it’s got the most incredible lush vegetation,” she remarks, of an eastmeets-Weston partnership that begins December 2011 to coincide with Art Basel Miami Beach.

For a range of reasons that include the scope of her cultural influence and geographical context, the vibrant, rhythmic screen prints and wood block editions of renowned Brazilian contemporary artist Beatriz Milhazes were selected for the first solo exhibition.

“One doesn’t necessarily plan for any of these things, they just take on a life of their own,” says Weston.

S

uch off-the-cuff undertakings may be a recurring thread in Weston’s life, but it’s never before measuring depth that she decides to dive into a blue pool.

Whether it was her decade-long tenure as deputy chair of the board for family owned Holt Renfrew, or her notable term as lieutenant-governor where she fought to bring awareness to youth homelessness and women’s issues, every venture is carefully considered.

Her cautionary approach was perhaps most transparent in 2002, when she accepted the ambitious philanthropic post of Renaissance ROM Campaign Chair, pledging to help raise hundreds of millions of dollars in Canada’s largest cultural fundraising movement.

“She took a lot of time and interviewed our board chairs herself before she finally committed herself to lead that campaign,” says the ROM’s former director and CEO William Thorsell, adding that once she came on-board she was very willing to work in the trenches.

Thorsell recalls many instances where he and Weston would park their car outside a potential donor’s office tower and strategize over the approach they would employ to get that person to make a massive contribution. “We’d come out and high-five after, so you know, I got to know her well enough that we could do this, but it’s not the Hilary Weston most people see. She’s actually got a great wit, she’s relentless, she doesn’t take ‘no’ for an answer in the sense that if somebody says no, she’ll say, ‘that means not yet.’” Her effective persistence even made headlines in The New York Times, which applauded her for famously persuading businessman Michael Lee-Chin to donate the $30 million that revolutionized the architectural face of Bloor Street www.dolcemag.com

“CURIOSITY BRINGS YOU INTO SO MANY DIFFERENT AREAS AND YOU DISCOVER SO MUCH ABOUT YOURSELF

BY LEARNING THROUGH OTHER PEOPLE.” – Hilary Weston with the Daniel Libeskind-designed Michael Lee-Chin Crystal. “So much of these things are about understanding and respect, because I think that you can’t expect people to give you money, you’ve got to hope it’s a good fit and that they believe that it’s real,” says Weston, who elevated the campaign with a gift of $20 million split evenly between her and her husband, and The W. Garfield Weston Foundation. “You have to learn how to give money away, that is a lesson in itself.” On another philanthropic page, The Hilary Weston Writers’ Trust Prize for Nonfiction recently praised its first winning author with a substantial prize of $60,000.

L

ike acclaimed contemporary artist David Hockney has said, “The longer you look, the more you see.” Watching Weston articulate her passion for the arts, philanthropy and her upcoming Windsor collaboration is a bit like dipping photographic paper in developer and seeing a portrait gradually emerge.

Canada’s closest connection to the royal family is an astute businesswoman, exemplary wife and fun-loving mother, who, according to her daughter, is filled

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The work of Brazilian artist Beatriz Milhazes has been selected as The Gallery at Windsor’s first solo exhibition in collaboration with Whitechapel Gallery, and will be on display until the end of February 2012.

Windsor’s private residential community radiates elegant interior design and striking individualistic architecture.

with Irish catchphrases and wise advice like, “Always leave a party when you want to stay a bit longer.”

In contrast to her descriptive interpretation of the Toulouse-Lautrec piece, it takes Weston a few moments to harness her definition of a happy life. Not for a lack of words, but for an abundance. “A happy life is being curious in life, and learning through your experience and enjoying it as a result of what you’ve learned …

I think it isn’t just one thing, because curiosity brings you into so many different areas and you discover so much about yourself by learning through other people, and one’s always seeking the spiritual in life and I think sometimes you find, and sometimes you don’t, that it comes and it goes, but to have them all is really, truly, the sweet life.” www.windsorflorida.com www.westonfoundation.org

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seamlessly blends various styles such as minimalism, art deco and gothic.

“I love contemporary but I think it’s too cold on its own, so I mix different tastes and cultures together for a charming, warm atmosphere,” says Fréchette, who handpicks quality home accessories and furniture from various designer hot spots across the globe. He and his team of interior designers and artists are equipped with the vision and experience to transform every room in your abode.

Juxtaposing the simple things that make a house into a home with the grandness you’d find in a five-star hotel, NordSouth’s spaces spill with spectacularly balanced settings with not a replica in sight. “I’m very strong on art accessories and paintings. Everything I put in my décor is original – I never use fake flowers or mainstream prints. I work with artists.” www.nordsouth.com

Director/interior designer Sergio P. Zampini

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MONUMENTS TO LUXURY

WRITTEN BY MICHAEL HILL

These praiseworthy structures span from the Toronto skyline to its most distinguished districts.

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4 1. Waterscapes The consummation of Monarch Group’s Waterview project, the glass tower of Waterscapes gazes out over the crystal Etobicoke shoreline. www.monarchgroup.net

3. Shangri-La Like the manifestation of a fabled paradise, the Shangri-La appears in a stunning display, bringing the luxuries of a prosperous kingdom with it.. www.livingshangri-latoronto.com

5. One Bloor A monument to the spirit of the city’s bustling core, One Bloor reaches for the heavens, towering over Toronto with wonder and affluence. www.onebloor.com

2. The AvenDale Located in Toronto’s Forest Hill neighbourhood, the luxurious lifestyle of The AvenDale gleams with hotel-style amenities and interiors by Gluckstein Design. www.minto.com

4. 277 Davenport The clean, modern design of 277 Davenport gives a sharp, metropolitan esthetic that melds perfectly with the city’s fashion-forward mentality. www.277dav.com

6. 1717 Avenue Road Without pretence or ostentation, 1717 Avenue Road manages to capture the prominence of this celebrated area through a soft look and artistic landscape. www.tributecommunities.com www.dolcemag.com

7. Schoolhouse Loretto College’s traditional brick façade has been enhanced with contemporary condo living at Schoolhouse – Empire Communities’ latest venture into The Annex. www.schoolhouseannex.com

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Siberian Express, 2010. Adventurers Ray Zahab and Kevin Vallely run unsupported across 650 kilometres of a frozen Lake Baikal in an effort to inspire students to take action and fund two water projects in Africa.

RAY

ZAHAB In

RUNNING WILD

2007, I finished a 7,500-kilometre run across the Sahara Desert. My two teammates and I ran an average of 70 km per day for 111 days through six countries – probably not the most efficient way to see northern Africa, but definitely the most immersive!

We ran through massive sand dunes, occasionally visiting remote Saharan communities that were memorable and thought shifting. Our run became more about learning from the people of the Sahara than an extreme feat of endurance.

When re-supplying through smaller desert communities in Niger, we learned how these incredible people have not only adapted, but thrived in such a hostile environment. Agricultural geniuses, I had some of the best tomatoes ever with couscous and roasted camel. An awesome meal, but the company made it even more memorable.

Completing the Running the Sahara expedition permanently stamped in my brain that we are all capable of extraordinary in our lives. By far, travel is our greatest teacher. Experiencing the world we live in, reaching out to seemingly impossible places, and connecting with people from thousands of kilometres away provides 32

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Baffin Island Expedition, 2009. Zahab takes a moment to enjoy the beautiful scenery in the heart of Canada’s Arctic. Five Youth Ambassadors were selected for a week-long trek through sweeping glaciers, polar ice and jagged granite mountains.

1. South Pole Quest, 2009. Zahab and two others embark on a self-supported trek to the Geographic South Pole in an effort to raise awareness on climate change. 2. Running Tunisia, 2010. These incredible i2P Youth Ambassadors run through searing heat and massive sand dunes to inspire schools from around the globe to fund two water projects in Africa. 3. Expedition Amazon, 2010.

Youth Ambassador Sierra Smith connects with a local child in Taquara, Brazil after trekking nearly 200 kilometres through dense jungle. 4. South Pole Quest, 2009.

Zahab, Vallely and Arctic explorer Richard Weber huddle together after completing their 33-day expedition from Hercules Inlet, Antarctica to the Geographic South Pole.

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us with so many answers to questions that cannot even be asked or comprehended until the journey is over.

Since 2007, I have completed expeditions all over the world, including a 33-day unsupported trek from the Hercules Inlet, Antartica, to the South Pole. I also dragged all of my food and supplies across Lake Baikal in Siberia – an outstanding frozen landscape in a remote part of the planet. That took 13 days. Awesome vistas, but for a food lover, the diet of dehydrated meals grew frustrating. I also ran the 1,200 km-length of the Atacama Desert in the summertime. Chile is a place to visit! Its famous wine destinations, like the La Serena, made post-expedition drinks incredible. The coastal scenery was mind-blowing, and the people friendly.

For me, the most rewarding projects are the ones organized through an organization I founded called impossible2Possible. The goal is to inspire, educate and empower youth through adventure-based education programs. Youth Ambassadors are selected – at no cost to them or their families – to join me on an expedition to a remote part of the world. There, they sometimes run up to a marathon per day, while learning from local cultures about a specific topic. These are then beamed live into www.dolcemag.com

classrooms via video-conferencing.

They bring their expedition into classrooms, and classrooms onto their expeditions. Questions are asked from students, and the Youth Ambassadors answer live. They reach past any physical or mental limit they think they might have, and share the lessons they’ve learned to others. In the Amazon, the Youth Ambassadors took lessons on biodiversity from the indigenous peoples of the Amazon. There have also been projects to Bolivia, the Arctic, the Sahara and India – all told through live websites that accompany each project.

My hope is that through these experiences, young people everywhere will become engaged and inspired to see their world, to learn about it and preserve it. I hold a belief that in each of us is an adventurer, just waiting to discover what is over the next mountain or sea.

Ray Zahab Guest Travel Editor Ray Zahab is motivated by challenge, distance and discovery. In 2007, he ran 7,500 kilometres across the Sahara Desert in 111 days to raise awareness for the water crisis in Africa. In 2008, Zahab founded impossible2Possible (i2P), an adventure-based organization that allows thousands of students from around the globe to experience the world like never before. www.rayzahab.com

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DICKINSON

Arlene Arlene Dickinson opens up about the rocky road that led to her success, and how principled persuasion solidified her career.

Persuasion: A New Approach to Changing Minds (HarperCollins, 2011).

It’s

early Sunday afternoon in Toronto. The sun has free dominion over the clear October sky, casting an intense radiance over the city and drenching Arlene Dickinson’s downtown loft in a warm glow. She sits relaxed at her kitchen table, wearing a simple ensemble of casual sweats, calmly discussing the art of influence, the topic of her first book aptly titled Persuasion: A New Approach to Changing Minds.

“The time felt right,” says the 55 year-old CEO of Venture Communications, explaining how her role on CBC’s Dragons’ Den brings a bombardment of queries all searching for that secret to her success. “I was getting asked so often about what it was that I had done that was different, and I wanted people to know that I’ve made a lot of mistakes along the way and there was no straight path.”

With her back to the glistening city skyline and the golden aura around her iconic red hair projecting an image of absolute assurance, it’s surprising to hear a titan 34

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of her magnitude admit any personal shortcomings. But for Dickinson, persuasion isn’t about smoke and mirrors or creating a beguiling, chameleon-like persona. Her method is that of “principled persuasion,” an approach that requires authenticity, reciprocity, and as she makes clear early on, honesty.

She describes a childhood stamped with poverty and a broken home, a personality stacked with self-doubt and apprehension, and a failed marriage caused by her own infidelity. Slogging

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTOPH STRUBE OF JUDY INC.

WRITTEN BY MICHAEL HILL

through a divorce, losing custody of her four children, and unemployed at 31, her past is anything but ideal.

“I think people believe that you lead some charmed life and you never make mistakes and that’s how people become successful, and it’s so not true.”

Although flawed, the past is the past, and Dickinson would never let it dictate her future. A year after her marriage ended, she transitioned from a job selling ads for a local Calgary TV station to becoming a partner at a start-up marketing firm known as Venture. Ten years later, she bought out the remaining partner and became the CEO.

“I think people believe that you lead some charmed life and you never make mistakes and that’s how people become successful, and it’s so not true.”

— Arlene Dickinson

However, Dickinson has never been the fire-breathing type. Just as her book, she displays an unexpected openness and a clear contrast to the ferocity displayed by her on-air colleagues. “I always characterized that good guys can finish first, and you can do things in a way that doesn’t step on other people in order to be successful.”

Indeed, Dickinson dodges the endsjustify-the-means mentality of utilitarian businesses to instead lean towards a deontological approach, where universal maxims dictate your actions. To Dickinson, the methods used are just as important as the results achieved. “I think the minute you have to pretend to be somebody else in order to do something is the minute you lose control of your own voice and your own opinion, and I think that sets you up for failure. Because it’s like lying: eventually you get caught.”

Even with financial uncertainty incessantly looming on the horizon, Dickinson feels abandoning your values can only lead to catastrophe.

Authenticity is crucial to principled persuasion – part of that authenticity is accepting who you are. “The more honest we are with ourselves, and the more OK with who we are, the less worried we are about doing things to

impress somebody, the more, I think, the more people will appreciate and follow us. I really believe that, I do.”

All this boils down to is confidence. As she explains, persuasion entails believing in the person that you are, remembering your voice is important, and never fearing mistakes or failure. Her book echoes this sentiment, noting, “I find it much easier to live with failure than to live with regret over the road not taken.” But even as she explains the importance of strength and confidence, there is an air of fragility floating through her words. In that honest, Arlene way, she acknowledges her mastery of this art is still an “ongoing dialog,” and that fear of disappointing others perpetually lingers in the background.

This vulnerability isn’t necessarily debilitating, however. It keeps her humble, self-aware and away from perceived infallibility. “I always want to be a little bit of a pleaser,” she says, explaining her attitude may be seen as a weakness to some, but it keeps her grounded and gives balance to her life. She always feels the need to push for 150 per cent, staying clear of arrogance and selfishness.

The transparency Dickinson displays is an uplifting departure from the habitually iron-fisted nature of big business. While her book may illustrate the art of persuasion and how to maximize it, the dark days of her past proves that the sun will always rise again, and sometimes it shines unclouded. www.arlenedickinson.com www.dolcemag.com

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PUSATERI’S

Ida Pusateri, Rosanna Pusateri, Sammy Pusateri, Dina Luchetta, John Mastroianni and Frank Luchetta.

GOLD STANDARDS

Pusateri’s silver anniversary comes with a new set of gold standards. In this Dolce Vita exclusive, Toronto’s luxury grocer opens up about overcoming recent challenges and the fruitful future ahead.

It’s

just another Friday afternoon at Pusateri’s Fine Food flagship store on Avenue Road: a palpable rush of shoppers, the sweet aroma of freshly baked pastries and a signature traffic guard navigating the parking lot outside.

In fact, there’s nothing that would indicate that the upscale Toronto grocer has recently undergone the roughest week in 25 years until you follow a flight of stairs to corporate

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headquarters, and meet the fatigued faces that stand behind the thriving family run food chain.

“That day was devastating,” says president Frank Luchetta, sitting at a table surrounded by his sister Ida Pusateri, her children Rosanna and Sammy Pusateri and general manager John Mastroianni. The day he’s referring to is Oct. 20, 2011, when Pusateri’s

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LARRY ARNAL

PRODUCED BY MICHELLE ZERILLO-SOSA

flagship was ordered to close due to a pest issue. “It’s been non-stop, no sleep … it affected everybody. We were all shocked because it’s just something that’s never, ever happened,” says Rosanna, who grew up in the aisles of a company founded by her late father, Cosimo Pusateri. This news was particularly unexpected of a gourmet grocery brand that’s considered Toronto’s crème de la crème. “It was devastating because we let our customers down and we recognize that we have to regain their trust,” Luchetta adds, who was overwhelmed by the support his family received from local chefs, suppliers and loyal

“OUT OF EVERY CHALLENGE COMES OPPORTUNITY, FOR US THAT OPPORTUNITY CAME WHILE REFLECTING ON OUR FOUNDING PRINCIPLES. – Frank Luchetta

customers who called and made public appearances to display their fidelity. Jennifer Montemarano is one of those customers. “I was back the day after they reopened. I think my initial reaction was shock,” says Montemarano, whose been shopping at Pusateri’s for the past 10 years. “I just think everybody deserves a second chance. I know how devastating this was

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Pusateri’s staff in front of its flagship store at Avenue Road and Lawrence Avenue.

to them, and I know that they will do everything in their power to never let anything like this happen again.”

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t’s in these circumstances that a business has to choose a fight-or-flight response that will measure recovery and dictate the future. Standing in solidarity with its burgeoning staff, Pusateri’s reopened three days later with an entirely new outlook on what they would do to not only win back loyalty, but surpass industry expectations. Its road to recovery is paved by a Gold Standard campaign that’s founded on principles of transparency and is committed to quality assurance and customer service.

“In our stores and on our products, you’ll now see a gold seal that represents our family’s promise to our customers and friends,” says Luchetta. Their pledge is a commitment to excellence in all categories, something their selective clientele have come to expect.

Another fundamental facet of the campaign is bringing in former York Region health protection manager Dominic Fortuna as Pusateri’s full-time vice president of quality assurance.

“I have an opportunity at this point to develop a program that you’ll never find anywhere else,” says Fortuna, who has more than 15 years of government and private sector experience standing on the other side as an inspector and manager responsible for ensuring food safety and public health. His multi-tiered approach includes selfenforcing monthly inspections, refining existing procedures and implementing additional standards to ensure Pusateri’s is surpassing the industry’s current quarterly protocol.

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“Out of every challenge comes opportunity, for us that opportunity came while reflecting on our founding principles,” says Luchetta. Cosimo Pusateri began his brand in 1986 with the vision of establishing a fine food retail concept that was non-existent at the time. Toronto foodies no longer had to fly to Italy and France to fill their fridges with foreign delicacies, as they were now exclusively available at Pusateri’s. His idea caught on like flambéed crêpe suzette as many of the city’s top chefs and discerning consumers called on his idiosyncratic selections for rare ingredients, event catering and homemade gastronomy.

Suppliers from around the world wanted their specialty products to find their place on Pusateri’s shelves; for many, belonging to the local luxe-mart was a mark of accomplishment. “Cosimo had insight, and that’s what it takes to make successful businesses. I call it the sixth sense, always knowing what’s next. It’s not always easy to find that,” says Vincent Liberatore, whose been supplying his Continental Noodles Ltd. products to Pusateri’s for 16 years.

Today, the community fixture has added a couple more links to its intimate independent chain, with locations in Yorkville and its most recent in Bayview www.dolcemag.com

Village Mall, bringing the staff total to more than 600. Famous faces that take advantage of Pusateri’s chefs and cuisine include U2’s Bono, The Rolling Stones and Kim Cattrall, who Ida says was seen shopping at the Yorkville location almost daily during her recent stay in Toronto.

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ith steaming housemade coffees in hand, everyone sitting at the table is confident that the implementation of gold standards and superior customer service will allow them to continue providing shoppers the same exceptional experience that Cosimo envisioned. Heading back downstairs and seeing the eccentric Manoucher Etminan serving his internationally sold specialty breads, as food-preneurs often come in to do, and finding out that 79-year-old Nonna Dina had stopped by earlier to make Hello Dollies for her clients, it’s clear that many of Pusateri’s tender traditions are still in tact. “We look at it as the three F’s: family, friends and food. It doesn’t matter what you do, if it’s a baby shower or a wedding or a bat mitzvah, whatever it is, at the end of the day, the thing that pulls it all together is family and breaking bread together,” says Mastroianni. www.pusateris.com

Scene

RESTAURANT From classic to trendy, these restaurants steal the show.

WRITTEN BY MICHAEL HILL

1. BOTERO

2. COMPASS

3. BRUNELLO

Poolside at the sleek Wynn resort and casino in Las Vegas, you’ll find a winning experience at Botero.

Headed by chef Mark LoRusso, this 2011 AAA Four Diamond award-winning restaurant serves bold culinary regimen, like brioche-crusted Colorado lamb and roasted Maine lobster. www.wynnlasvegas.com

For over 15 years, professional chef Antonio D’Anello has stuck to his philosophy of using only fresh, organic, sustainable and local fare.

He picks the day’s freshest produce to create a savoury menu that shifts with the seasons. Sink your teeth into juicy Canadian Angus strip loin or relish in rich smoked chicken ravioli. www.compassrestaurant.ca

At the Regina Hotel Baglioni in Rome, time-honoured Italian elegance meets chic modern design at the Brunello.

Stroll in from Via Veneto, one of the city’s most eminent streets, and breathe in the mouth-watering scent of Mediterranean cuisine, like rosemary marinated lamb, wild roasted sea bass, and roasted octopus with sweet pepper cream. www.baglionihotels.com

4. TOQUÉ! RESTAURANT

5. SPLENDIDO

6. MONTREAL XO

With a plethora of awards commemorating its exceptional cuisine, Toqué! Restaurant is considered by many to be the pinnacle of Quebec dining. Norman Laprise, a Relais & Châteaux grand chef, heads the kitchen, crafting innovative dishes that earned him the title Chevalier de L’Ordre National du Québec in 2009. “The food is very modern and you have to be open with the flavour,” says Laprise, who is praised for his revolutionary blind-tasting menus. www.restaurant-toque.com

Under the guidance of veteran restaurateur Carlo Catallo and chef Victor Barry, Splendido brings that rustic flair to the Toronto dining scene. Their contemporary menu is prepared using local ingredients that fluctuate with the season, and each plate is displayed in a tasteful yet relaxed fashion. www.splendido.ca

Housed in Montreal’s celebrated Hotel Le St-James, Xo Le Restaurant brings the historic city’s old-world charm into the spotlight. The traditional European atmosphere is complemented by a refined décor, while the creative menu adds regal flavour. Start with mouthwatering scallops or beef carpaccio, and dine like royalty on scrumptious venison and pheasant. www.hotellestjames.com

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Peter Oliver and Michael Bonacini enjoy the moment with good company and wine.

AUBERGE DU POMMIER

BANNOCK

LUMA

with

OLIVER & BONACINI CAFÉ GRILL

ILLUMINATE YOUR PALATE

PETER OLIVER and MICHAEL BONACINI

Foodies familiar with the metropolitan dining scene have more than likely flirted with the savoury fare of Peter Oliver and Michael Bonacini. This formidable culinary duo has regaled the palates of many Torontonians, and recently shared with Dolce Vita their most beloved dishes from four of their famous restaurants.

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Peter Oliver and Michael Bonacini Guest Food Editors Two of Toronto’s best-known culinary entrepreneurs put it all on the table nearly two decades ago when they partnered to open Jump Café and Bar in 1993. At the time, Peter Oliver was a thriving Toronto restaurateur, and Michael Bonacini was the executive chef of Centro. Today, their lucrative food enterprise dots the city with restaurants and event spaces, which include Jump, Canoe, Biff’s Bistro, Auberge du Pommier, Oliver & Bonacini Café Grill, Luma, O&B Canteen, Malaparte and Bannock. Oliver is also the founder and president of The Stephen Leacock Foundation, a charitable organization that helps disadvantaged children in Canada and the developing world. www.oliverbonacini.com

HUÎTRES & CAVIAR

BANNOCK BANNOCK

O&B MACARONI AND CHEESE

BURRATA

AUBERGE DU POMMIER HUÎTRES & CAVIAR Peter Oliver: I feel that Chef St. Jaques takes oysters to the next level with this dish. The poached oysters are placed on a bed of leek velouté, then topped with toasted brioche and caviar. It’s magnificent.

BOEUF QUATRE FAÇONS Michael Bonacini: I love this dish as it gives you the opportunity to taste not one, but four styles of beef: ribeye, short rib, oxtail, and a ragoût. This is a rich dish, perfect for a chilly winter day.

MACARON Oliver: These French macaroons just melt in your mouth. They are the perfect finishing touch to a wonderful Auberge du Pommier meal.

BOEUF QUATRE FAÇONS

ARCADIAN COURT CHICKEN POT PIE

BANNOCK BANNOCK BANNOCK Bonacini: House-smoked salmon and cream cheese on freshly made bannock. This is such a fun dish that blends Canadian traditions in a unique and interesting way.

ARCADIAN COURT CHICKEN POT PIE Oliver: When we first announced that we were opening a restaurant in The Bay, people would stop me in the street and ask me about this pot pie! It has been a Toronto family favourite for many years, and we are thrilled to carry on the tradition.

SOUR CREAM DONUTS Bonacini: Real Canadian, eh?

Oliver: We know we couldn’t serve Canadian comfort food without a glazed donut on the menu. These are warm, doughy, a little crispy on the outside. Simple food – elevated.

OLIVER & BONACINI CAFÉ GRILL GRILLED CALAMARI Bonacini: This calamari dish is adapted from the Jump lunch menu, and is one of my favourites.

O&B MACARONI AND CHEESE Bonacini: This is classic mac and cheese for grown-ups. With aged white cheddar, goat cheese, roasted chicken and sweet garden peas, it’s a fun spin on an old favourite.

CARROT CAKE Oliver: This is a carrot cake for real carrot cake lovers – moist, perfectly spiced and topped with a not-too-sweet cream cheese icing.

CARROT CAKE

LUMA BURRATA Bonacini: I love that this dish is rich and creamy but still feels light.

STEAK FRITES Oliver: This is such a classic, timeless dish – a fantastic match with a bold red.

OPERA CAKE Bonacini: A perfect end to dinner and a movie! If you forgot to buy your date a snack, the popcorn ice cream and caramel popcorn will more than make up for it.

STEAK FRITES

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EMIRATES A380

Business trips are more like vacations when MacPhee flies with Emirates A380. At the touch of a button, the business class massage seats extend into a flat bed for further relaxation.

SNOW PHOENIX

Nothing brings a capsized day to shore better than a nightcap.

MacPhee chooses to get whisked away by the warmth of Glenfiddich Snow Phoenix single malt scotch whisky.

www.emirates.com

www.glenfiddich.com

THE HOT LIST FROM PR MAVEN

Stewart MacPhee

RADO DIASTAR WATCH

An invariable element of MacPhee’s wardrobe is Rado’s Integral two-tone watch with its sapphire crystal elegance and high-tech psyche.

JAGUAR XF

MacPhee chose this mid-size luxury ride for all the right reasons: it’s easy on the eyes and the environment. This car gets him from A to B and beyond in sophisticated style. www.jaguar.com

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ISAAC HAYES

When it comes to music, MacPhee has Hayes fever. The songster behind the musical score for Shaft impresses with Hot Buttered Soul.

PRADA BOOTS

MacPhee slips on his black leather Prada Chelsea boots to give him that extra kick.

www.isaachayes.com

www.prada.com

ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA

We communicate with our words, actions and even our attire. For MacPhee, Zegna’s bespoke suits do all the talking. www.zegna.com

Stewart MacPhee is president and CEO of Toronto public relations firm PUNCH Canada Inc. www.punchcanada.com 42

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Crème de la

CARD

The exclusivity. The prestige. The card.

T

Guests of the Blackout on Bloor event receive gifts from each boutique, including a Gucci leather cardholder personalized with gold initials.

WRITTEN BY MICHAEL HILL

he glowing eyes of passing traffic illuminate Toronto’s fashion mile, omitting the darkened storefronts that only hours ago were bustling with life. The business day is done, yet, between Avenue and Bay the shoppers stir. It’s American Express’s (AmEx) third annual Blackout on Bloor event and their illustrious Centurion Card members have come out to play.

“This is a very exciting event,” says Tim Elgar, director of charge cards for American Express Canada, explaining how the private shopping affair, reserved exclusively for Centurion members, awards afterhours access at four of the city’s most coveted boutiques: Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Hermès and Gucci. Valet is at the ready, champagne cascades, exquisite hors d’oeuvres are served, and handsomely attired personnel wait on cardholders hand-and-foot. Every guest is also given a special gift before leaving each shop. Gucci, for example, presented Guccissima leather card cases personalized with gold initials.

With no pre-set limit, the Centurion Card is a mark of affluence and social standing, simultaneously removing barriers and opening doors, granting cardholders perks such as hotel

upgrades, bonus reward programs and access to airport lounges. There’s something enigmatic about it. As Elgar notes, “We like to think about it as similar to carrying a private club membership in your wallet.”

A rare beast of personal finance, the ‘black card’ is available by invitation only, requires a $5,000 initiation fee and $2,500 annual fee. And while AmEx won’t disclose further qualifications, you can confidently assume it requires an exorbitant amount of income to even be considered. A fact made clear by the unabashed luxury on display at Blackout on Bloor.

“We reserve it exclusively for the top tier of our card member base here in Canada,” says Elgar, describing the jet-black, hand-forged, engraved and embossed piece of titanium. “There’s really nothing else like it on the planet.”

The perks don’t cease at the boutique.

Centurion members have a personal concierge service at the ready for around-the-clock requests that range from the simple day-to-day, like ordering business cards, to the extraordinary. Elgar explains how one cardholder, for example, wished for a cast member of the Gone With the Wind www.dolcemag.com

musical to hand his wife flowers during a performance – the request was fulfilled.

“We work very hard to understand each Centurion Card member at a very personal and meaningful level so that we can cater all our recommendations and the access we provide for them at an individual level.”

As the shopping winds down, the Gatsbyesque evening fittingly flows to La Société for drinks in cosmopolitan style. Bottles of bubbly pop, freshly uncorked vintages breathe, and no one bats an eye. But why would they? Their black cards have it covered. www.americanexpress.com DOLCE VITA MAGAZINE

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OE JMIMRAN

◀ Creative director Joe Mimran stands by his FW11 Joe Fresh collection at his downtown Toronto showroom.

M

PHOTO BY VINCENT LIONS OF JUDY INC.

WALKS THE LINE

WRITTEN BY MADELINE STEPHENSON

Makeshift newspaper umbrellas cover the heads of a percipient crowd along Toronto’s King Street West.

Heavy would be a euphemism for the unscripted downpour that’s soaking Atlantic Avenue, home to Canadian fashion house Joe Fresh, where beneath the retail factory’s red brick walls the pitter-patter of the outside world sounds more like a classical symphony. On the type of day where everyone is excused for looking a little less than best, Joe Mimran strides into the showroom evaporating the entire notion.

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the soft glow of a Floridian sun rather than the harsh glare of fluorescent lights.

His navy suit fits like a cashmere-lined leather glove, and his feet look just as comfortable in his signature velvet Church’s slippers. In an industry where image is everything, Mimran gets a standing ovation. The conversation moves to a sleek long table in his contemporary glass office, where all the planks in the runway start to form a story. It’s there, glancing out into the expansive factory workspace reminiscent of a dressed-up New York newsroom, that one wonders how this silver fox pulled such a lucrative rabbit out of his hat.

With more than 300 locations across Canada, Mimran’s semi-eponymous Joe Fresh label debuted under Loblaw Companies Limited in 2006 as its private apparel line that would bring affordable fashion to the masses. Similar concepts had brushed the ears of consumers in the past, but this time the promise of more-for-less was being made by a man who co-founded upscale minimalist brand Club Monaco, which he sold to Polo Ralph Lauren Corp. in 1999. Needless to say, Mimran’s name was literally on the line. Collection after collection, he proved that classic cuts with trendy touches don’t have to empty clutches – not to mention the convenience www.dolcemag.com

In an effort to further relay his message to the masses, Mimran put his unisex collections on the catwalk: an atypical business move that turned out to be one of his brightest. “There was nobody really doing runway at that price point here in Canada and to me it was important because it showed that we’re very credible in terms of fashion, that we wanted it to come from a very real place,” says Mimran. Today, his shows are at the crescendo of Toronto’s LG Fashion Week, featuring top models like Crystal Renn and Tiiu Kuik and consistently garnering crowds with front-row fashion editors from New York and London.

PHOTO BY JC PHOTOGRAPHY & CO.

of paying for peas and a peacoat in one swipe. “Joe is a strong visionary with an incredible talent for thinking outside the box,” says his designer wife, Kimberley Newport-Mimran of the Pink Tartan brand.

“I THINK TO HAVE REACHED THE AMOUNT OF

A few years after the inception of Joe Fresh, Loblaw’s announced that its in-house clothing PENETRATION THAT Joe Mimran and his upcoming spring 2012 WE HAVE OVER line was on track to collection receives a SUCH A SHORT becoming a billion-dollar roaring ovation at Toronto’s LG Fashion Week. brand. The fiscal forecast PERIOD OF TIME, WE foreshadowed the line’s WOULD BE DOING next logical steps: standOURSELVES A alone stores in Toronto If you consider Mimran’s genes, Canada’s flourishing and Quebec, and the DISSERVICE IN NOT fashion icon fits right in. “My mom was in the business precarious decision to test TRYING TO TAKE IT and there was always fabrics around everywhere and its selling power under INTERNATIONALLY.” she was always sewing and there was a form,” he says of a star-spangled banner.

– Joe Mimran Esther, who made sure her son was the most fashionable “The United States is sort in school. His deep brown pupils expand as he remembers of a graveyard for Canadian retailers, and so it’s always been himself as the 11-year-old kid with the Beatle boots, Glen Check suit and madea difficult decision to make,” says to-measure lumber jackets sewn with love. “There was this amazing, navy suede Moroccan-born Mimran, adding that sweater vest that I had to have – navy suede, can you imagine? I asked my mom, the stigma of failure worries him far less ‘Oh, would you mind making me a navy suede sweater vest with the double-knit than the thought of not trying. “There’s a back and the double-knit sleeves? She would whip them up for me.” limit to how much more we can grow in the market and I think to have reached Busy expanding the runway of his apparel empire, Mimran manages to find time for the amount of penetration that we have golf, scrabble, and even sleep. “Kim says I sleep too well. She says a bomb could over such a short period of time, we go off and it’s just incredible,” says the 59-year-old. He also finds time to collect would be doing ourselves a disservice contemporary art, but at 13-by-9 feet, his most recent Julian Schnabel piece is in not trying to take it internationally.” too big for his Toronto home. Perhaps it will soon follow Joe Fresh with a move to Joe Fresh kicked off its American crawl the U.S. “That’s what happens when you start to collect, you become a little bit with permanent stores in New York and obsessed, a little bit like slippers,” he says, looking down at his feet. It’s a rare New Jersey this fall, including a fixture moment to see Mimran without his chin up – it’s just not his style. www.joefresh.com on Fifth Avenue. www.dolcemag.com

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Former Dolce Vita cover girl Iris Apfel glams it up as Mac Cosmetic’s newest muse.

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JINGLE BELLE

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1. QUICK AS A WINK Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Swipe on The Mascara for lengthened, lifted lashes. www.cledepeau-beaute.com 2. FROLIC WITH POLISH Everything comes together with a handful of radiant nails. Dip into Estée Lauder’s Pure Colour Nail Lacquer in Fuchsia Flame for a pop of colourful elegance. www.esteelauder.ca 3. BIRTHDAY KISSES Bobbi Brown celebrates two decades in beauty with a must-have collector piece that combines the latest lip-smacking shades with its original hues from 1991.

Add colour to a sky of grey with a palette that joins the past with the present.

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WRITTEN BY SIMONA PANETTA

4. A SCENTFUL FEAT The Bond No. 9 New York Andy Warhol Lexington Avenue Body Cream smoothes your skin with the scent of roasted almonds, crème brûlée and sandalwood for a blissful head-to-toe experience.

5. ROCK THE FOUNDATION Find perfection in the angelic glow of Clé de Peau Beauté. Featuring key antioxidants and extracts to keep the skin plump and radiant, the Luminizing Enhancer Base Foundation delivers a heavenly complexion from day to night.

6. APPLE OF MY IRIS Known as the rare bird of fashion, former Dolce cover girl Iris Apfel is Mac’s latest www.dolcemag.com

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muse. Her extraordinary flair is captured in the “Open Armoire” collection, which features eclectic hues that shy away from the neutral. Add a little Apfel in your life with “Morange,” a loudmouth shade that will set you apart from the conventional rest. www.maccosmetics.com 7. FLOWER POWER A bouquet of rose, magnolia and peony blooms in Bond No. 9 New York Chelsea Flowers, a scent inspired by the Big Apple’s hip gallery district.

Items 3, 4, 5 and 7 available at www.saksfifthavenue.com

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LUX-SPA is conveniently open 6 days a week.

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PAST

DOLCE WINNERS

FROM THE 2011 CONTEST WINNER

Designers Walk is Canada’s Leading Design Centre.

No Invitation Required. ®

Laura Chirco

Hilton Wilson Liborio Panetta Connie Zeneri Kim Kirsten Mitzi Mandarano Ivano Taranto Laura Chirco Lori Monardo Domenic and Angelica Lois Hughes Anthony Colalillo Sabrina Sacchetti

Designers Walk® is the ultimate destination to source products from leading international collections and design houses. Visit over 25 distinctive Showrooms and our innovative Resource Centre.

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Read it | Live it WWW.DOLCEMAG.COM SEE PAGE 65 TO WIN FABULOUS PRIZES.

Open to the public Mon. to Fri. 9 - 5

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◀ Dripping with glitz and glam, this couture cocktail dress by Tony Ward catches the eye with gold sequin embellishments and a train that will leave admirers starry eyed. www.tonyward.net

▶ Embrace yourself in delicate femininity with a strand necklace that beams with Golden South Sea pearls. The 18-karat gold and diamond ball clasp adds a touch of gilded elegance. www.mikimotoamerica.com

ALL THAT

GLITTERS IS WRITTEN BY SIMONA PANETTA

◀ Sparkle your way through the crowd with the season’s beauty must-haves. Perfect on its own or over lipstick, the Festive Gold gloss adds glints of stardom to a holiday pout, while a complementary palette of gold, smoked brown and burgundy eyeshadows and mascara smudge mystery across your eyes. www.lisewatier.com

▲ As the blush fabric seems to dance on its own, the sequined bow takes the lead in a ballroom full of suitors. This quietly flirtatious dress from the MLH Luxurywear Collection is swathed in self-confidence, a signature touch by designer Maria Lucia Hohan. www.marialuciahohan.com

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▲ Accessorize in luxurious warmth with Sutra’s 18-karat yellow gold natural rough diamond earrings. www.fragments.com

▼ Ring in the new year with yellow gold and chocolate diamonds. www.levian.com

◀ With a strong infatuation for ’40s and ’50s fashion, award-winning designer Huy Vo’s creation awakens the old soul with a contemporary kiss.

Dress by Huy Vo Atelier, Bracelet by Jewelmak www.jewelmak.com Photographer: Eniko Szucs www.enikoszucs.com Fashion Editor: Cameron K. Carpenter http://cargocollective.com/cameronkcarpenter/ Makeup: Jennifer Nam www.jennifernam.tumblr.com Model: Marina P. at Red Model Management Hair Stylist: Nicholas Shatarah Fashion Assistant: Rossi Martini

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▶ Whispering shimmers of seduction, this gilded metallic gown surrenders to the floor in effortless glamour. www.ghadahparis.com

◀ The luxurious !Xam Diamonds gallery showroom is a mere preview to the stunning stones it offers. www.xamdiamonds.com

◀ What better way to express your admiration than with an ethically mined diamond ring? www.xamdiamonds.com

▶ Silence may be golden, but the clink of Tiffany Locks bangles is music to your ears. www.tiffany.com

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▶ Olivia Wilde, Angelina Jolie and Halle Berry have all turned to the design talents of Reem Acra for gowns that exude grace. A Hollywood look is as easy as slipping on this sequin show-stopper. www.reemacra.com

▲ A symbol of longevity, the Jean Schlumberger Orchid clip blooms with emeralds, diamonds and a platinum turquoise pin in 18-karat gold. www.tiffany.com

Dress by Reem Acra, Necklace and earrings by Andy Götz, clutch by Paola Dangond Photographer: Eniko Szucs www.enikoszucs.com Fashion Editor: Cameron K. Carpenter http://cargocollective.com/cameronkcarpenter/ Makeup: Jennifer Nam www.jennifernam.tumblr.com Model: Marina P. at Red Model Management Hair Stylist: Nicholas Shatarah Fashion Assistant: Rossi Martini Special Thank you to staff of Natuzzi Furniture showroom store for the gracious use of their space.

www.dolcemag.com www.dolcemag.com

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TUSKS AND CUFFS

Strong, bold and distinctively daring, the patriarchal authority cast by these silver, pink-crystal-eyed elephant cufflinks adds an unforgettable accent to formal wear. www.vivre.com

His

ESSENTIALS Stay classy with these stylish essentials.

◀ From Eton, a Swedish menswear designer since 1928, comes the black ribbon formal wear. Injecting purple and grey into the standard black-and-white formal formula blends class with style to create a striking look.

WRITTEN BY MICHAEL HILL ▼ With Frank Sinatra-like charm, La Queue de Cheval is a classy Montreal dining experience that embraces that classic-cool mentality.

A must-visit for the nostalgic man.

www.newyorkshoppingdiary.com

THE GOLDEN AGE

www.queuedecheval.com

With an art deco-inspired bottle designed by Italian architect and artist Lucca Scacchetti, the golden Colonia fragrance is light, fresh and ideal for the suave individual. www.holtrenfrew.com

RUGGEDLY RELAXED

Sporting a worn, pre-aged esthetic with a button-fly, the rocky denim of Levi’s Vintage line is both stylish and rugged, perfect for casual socializing with the boys. www.mrporter.com

ROCK THE CROCS

Rough brown crocodile skin adds a hint of edge to these swanky Gucci moccasins, while a silver horsebit balances the look with debonair detailing. www.gucci.com

LUCKY #13

Tom Ford’s Look 13 evokes trendy refinement. An amber cashgora brings prominence to the earthy base of the camel-silk cashmere tailored country jacket and beige cotton corduroy pants. www.tomford.com 52

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▶ The baguette diamonds lining the bezel frame of Patek’s 5298P Platinum face provides an element of extravagance to a sophisticated yet understated look.

www.patek.com

The Sade faucet collection by GRAFF combines simplicity and elegance in its curved spout.

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Vancouver’s most romantic Boutique Hotel &Spa

www. wedgewoodhotel.com For Reservations Call 1.800.663.0666

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The heart of this Toronto residence is sweetened with a pop of apple green.

DISTINGUISHED CANADIAN DESIGNER BRIAN GLUCKSTEIN DELVES INTO 2012.

InsideDESIGN WRITTEN BY BRIAN GLUCKSTEIN

I

nterior design has gone through drastic esthetic changes over the past 10 – 15 years.

We’ve seen the traditional opulence of the ’80s and early ’90s transition to a spare, modern and mid-century-influenced look in the 2000s. Recently, a very eclectic approach has evolved, and its given the homeowner an opportunity to inject more of their personality into their space. However, we sometimes see mixes of style, pattern, periods and colours that go from eccentric and highly adventurous, to sophisticated and refined within the same space. The result is a confused and distracting environment.

Truly successful interiors that are eclectic start with a clearly focused point of view and then introduce elements from other periods as an accent. This technique brings depth and the element of surprise to a space.

Design is going in a more global direction than ever before. Regional influences are flowing seamlessly around the world. We see western design in Asian homes, period French furniture in more contemporary spaces, and Asian influence in Parisian interiors. The world is getting smaller but this is also a reaction to the sameness in design. People want to reflect different

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LAVENDERS, APPLE GREENS AND GRAY BLUES MIXED WITH GOLD METALS, RICH WOODS AND SEMIPRECIOUS STONES WILL BE KEY COMBINATIONS IN THE YEAR AHEAD.

Gluckstein combines regional influences like French chairs, a deco mirror, 1940s French fixture and Asian wallpaper to give this Four Seasons Toronto space a look that’s universally elegant.

A classical painting in a gilded frame is worth its weight in gold.

This Toronto dining room achieves the eclectic concept with a cohesive mix of vintage and modern.

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points of view within their space. More and more homeowners are embracing a global esthetic.

Another trend in design is the growing interest in quality and longevity.

Homeowners are buying art, furniture and architectural elements that reflect quality and craftsmanship. Investing in quality pieces whenever possible is a great guideline for homeowners, and the approach balances our current landscape centred on mass production.

Colour will become a strong element in interiors this year. The modern-style spaces in the recent past have leaned towards monochromatic neutrals.

We’re going to see an introduction of colour that reflects the homeowner’s personality. Lavenders, apple greens and gray blues mixed with gold metals, rich woods and semiprecious stones will be key combinations in the year ahead.

This approach to colour provides visual impact and pop throughout a space.

Accessories play nicely into the concept of eclectic spaces. Just as we see the trend in fashion of mixing vintage jewelry with modern dress, vintage accessories for the home can layer beautifully into a contemporary space. Think vintage glass and crystal, antique boxes, vintage silver including hotel silver, and classical paintings in gilded frames. These pieces create an interesting juxtaposition within a contemporary space or add a rich, layered effect in a classical space.

Brian Gluckstein Guest Design Editor A graduate of Ryerson University’s esteemed interior design program, Brian Gluckstein has risen to become one of Canada’s leading designers.

As principal of Gluckstein Design Planning Inc., his diverse portfolio includes high-profile projects like the Four Seasons Hotel Toronto, One St. Thomas Condominiums, the Windsor Arms Hotel and 133 Hazelton Residences. His extensive self-designed line, Gluckstein Home collection, is sold at The Bay, Home Outfitters and Lord & Taylor Home, and consists of everything from patio furniture to cutlery and duvet covers. www.glucksteindesign.com

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Perpetual ceiling height aside, the artistic and architectural elements of this living room reflect a trend towards quality and longevity.

www.dolcemag.com

JUST ADD

WATER WAT

At Atlantis Bath Centre, our showrooms will fulfill all of your bathroom and kitchen needs. From the most basic upgrades to all grand and luxurious bathroom and kitchen projects, Atlantis Bath Centre caters to your every need.

Visit us today and find out why Atlantis Bath Centre is the only showroom you’ll desire to visit for all of your bathroom and kitchen requirements. www.atlantisbathcentre.ca

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JAGUAR

XKR-S COUPE WRITTEN BY MICHAEL HILL

Writer Michael Hill test-drives the Jaguar XKR-S at the 2012 AJAC Canadian Car of the Year Awards.

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ike a snarling beast charging towards its unsuspecting prey, the all-new 2012 Jaguar XKR-S is a startling automotive predator.

Yes, you heard right: Jaguar. The brand that’s been more recently known for quiet refinement, sophistication and comfort has shredded its three-piece suit and gone feral.

the newest XJs are impressively quick. Jaguar is serious about speed, and the XKR-S is its trump card.

If you craved speed in the not-sodistant-past, a Jaguar dealership would just be a speck in your rear-view. Not to say that Jags couldn’t move – the brand was simply more about style, status and luxury than performance. But as of late, Jaguar has been trying to get back in the fast lane. It’s been turning to its roadster past, remembering memorable autos such as the iconic E-Type of the ’60s and the XJ220, which held the title for highest top speed of a production car from 1992 – 1994. The last few iterations of the XKR, for example, may not have appeared as aggressive as the similar style of the Aston Martin DBS, but the menacing growl of its 510 ponies was cower-inducing. Even

The supercharged V-8’s blistering drumming isn’t just for show, either. Serving an additional 40-horsepower and 41 pound-feet of torque over the standard XKR, the XKR-S pumps 550-HP and 501 lb-ft of torque through the rear wheels, making this Jaguar’s most powerful car on the road. It peaks at 300 kilometres per hour and can reach 100 km in 4.4 seconds – astonishing speed, especially for a Jag. So much so that the XKR-S can easily hang with other sports coupes like the Mercedes SL 63 AMG, Aston Martin DBS and Audi R8 4.2.

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The moment you plant the pedal, this beast makes is presence known, and boy, does it ever sing. The XKR-S’s recalibrated 5-Litre V-8 engine roars as if it’s on a thunderous vendetta. The machine-gunning is amplified through the Jag’s free-flow exhaust system, producing a sound that will make gear heads melt.

And while the engine’s growl is arresting, when you pull back the throttle, the XKR-S tones down the vulgarity, bringing back that polished Jag poise.

To help keep the ferocity under control, Jaguar has fitted the XKR-S with a lightweight aluminum body and stiffer suspension, making steering far more precise. Even at high speeds, the XKR-S’s responsive handling keeps it planted in the corners. If you’re daring enough to disengage its traction-control collar, though, it isn’t afraid to flick its tail out. With its knife-fighter agility, you’ll be able to make this beauty dance on the track, no question.

Speaking of beauty, the XKR-S is a strikingly handsome machine. And while, again, it might not be as imposing as its Aston cousin, you certainly won’t be afraid to show it off. www.dolcemag.com

Sleek, sporty and striking, the XKR-S is the most powerful road car Jaguar has ever produced. Pumping out 550-horsepower and 501 pound-feet of torque, it roars with spine-tingling vigour and attacks the track with hunter-like aggression. This handsome coupe doesn’t sacrifice luxury, either. With 16-way adjustable seats, touch-screen navigation and leather interior, you’ll find all the comforts you’ve come to expect from Jaguar.

JAGUAR

XKR-S COUPE

Engine: Transmission: Horsepower: Torque lb. ft.: Fuel L/100km: 0-100 kph: Base MSRP:

The XKR-S is a bold departure for Jaguar, built with one thing in mind: speed. It’s a car that demands to be seen, discarding Jag’s usually discreet demeanour. It wails without restraint and moves, fittingly, with feline dexterity. If you’re on the prowl for a sporty, swift ride stamped with status and prestige, track down the XKR-S – it’ll make you purr. www.jaguar.ca www.dolcemag.com

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5.0-L V-8 6-Speed auto 550 501 18.9 City, 8.6 Hwy 4.4 sec $139,000

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GENERAL SPECS.

Inside, that Jaguar luxury is still present. Optional Reims Blue micro-piping and stitching accents the interior’s soft grain leather, while blue ambient lighting glows behind the dash. Door panels are accentuated with carbon leather detailing for extra style and special performance; 16-way adjustable seats are correspondingly upholstered and exceptionally comfortable. You’ll find a 7-inch touch screen with satellite navigation, Bowers & Wilkins 525 W sound system, and Jaguar’s futuristic JaguarDrive Selector, which rises from the centre console once the cat comes alive.

THE RETAIL THERAPY OF SEASIDE LUXE Lee Ann Sauter reinvents resort luxury.

WRITTEN BY MICHAEL HILL

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ave you ever been on a lavish getaway? Do you remember relaxing on the sand and partying the night away beneath the sultry tropical moon? These are the good times that make a lasting impression. But who really recalls their time in the resort gift shop? Seaside Luxe looks to change all that, delivering the medicine ailing retailers need to create an experience of luxury boutique shopping.

“Retail is something that [resort owners] never knew anything about, nor did they ever really want to pay attention to, because they looked at it as an amenity,” says Lee Ann Sauter, founder and CEO of Seaside Luxe. “It was something they had to have – they didn’t expect to make money off of it.”

Seaside Luxe injects resort retail with a shot of life, transforming these monotonous shops into lucrative sources of income by enhancing the shopping experience with exclusive high-end apparel and custom, one-of-a-kind furniture and home décor items.

Each boutique is designed to reflect the environment of the resort, matching the luxury it exudes and complementing the lifestyle of its guests. “Every single detail, 60

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Seaside Luxe brings exclusive pieces from renowned designers to each of their boutiques, including these versatile bracelets from Anne Sisteron Fine Jewelry.

DOLCE GIVEAWAY

on

Founder and CEO of Seaside Luxe Lee Ann Sauter in the uniquely designed Marea Boutique at Terranea Resort and Spa in Palos Verdes, California.

down to the fixtures, we design ourselves specifically to match the island, the resort and the client,” says Sauter, who also has over 20 years of experience in corporate retail.

With renowned designers such as Missoni, Emilio Pucci and Tom Ford lining the walls, Seaside Luxe has changed the mind-set of resort owners, revealing an untapped remedy that guests have come to love. As Sauter explains, “It’s literally looked at as something a hotel must have.

It’s a new activity that they’ve created for guests in these destination locations.”

Currently, Seaside Luxe boutiques can be found at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Hawaii, the Four Seasons Resort Maui, Hawaii, and at Terrana Resort and Spa in Palos Verdes, California. www.seasideluxe.com

The Mercedes-Benz Year End Event is back.

Bring home a 2012 GLK-Class.

Year End Event

Hurry in to your local dealer to enjoy your first three payments waived* on a new 2012 GLK-Class: n AGILITY CONTROL for superior handling and ride comfort n 4MATIC ™ permanent all-wheel drive n Standard 20" 5-twin-spoke alloy wheels n Driver’s knee airbag and NECK-PRO safety system To learn more about this market-leading compact luxury SUV visit mercedes-benz.ca/currentoffers 2012 GLK 350 4MATIC ™ TOTAL PRICE1: $46,305**

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FINANCE APR

PAYMENTS WAIVED*

LEASE APR

LEASE PAYMENT

2.9% 4.9% $428* *

60 MONTHS

*

48 MONTHS

On a recentt episode i d off CP24 CP24, viewers were asked, “What’s the most luxurious purchase you’ve ever made?”

Dolce Vita Magazine awarded the winner with these wonderful prizes.

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1. Bottega Veneta Eau de Parfum, Body Lotion and Shower Gel: Renowned designer Tomas Maier debuts a decadent, exclusive scent that’s perfect for that special person in your life. Available at select The Bay stores and Holt Renfrew locations across Canada. 2. Kodak EasyShare Camera: Capture those special moments with this easy-to-use point-and-click camera. 3. CHI Straightener: All frizzed out?

Get straight, shiny locks with the power of ceramic technology. 4. Dimples Bracelet: An earth-friendly silver charm bracelet that captures the fingerprint impression of a loved one, newborn infant or pet. 5. Chanel Sublimage La Crème: The ultimate in skin regeneration, this silky cream nourishes your complexion with moisture and radiance while firming facial contours. 6. Keurig Special Edition Brewing System: Good morning, coffee connoisseurs! This special edition single cup brewer is a great holiday gift for those on the go or a friend that entertains. 7. Philip Stein Timepiece: Beneficial to life and health, the frequencies of a Philip Stein watch provide a lifestyle experience that is more resilient and adaptable to stress. 8. Hydra Thermal with Light Therapy Facial Gift Card at King Country Day Spa: This lifting facial with a gentle micro current and light therapy session stimulates the collagen in your skin at the cellular level.

$8,348** DOWN

Taxes extra.

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Mercedes-Benz Barrie, 2440 Doral Drive, 705-431-2264, 416-777-2616, mbbarrie.com © 2011 Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc. **Total price of $46,305 and down payment include freight/PDI of $1,995, dealer admin fee of $375, air-conditioning levy of $100, EHF tires, filters, batteries of $29.70 and OMVIC fee of $5. *First, second and third month payment waivers are capped for the 2012 C 250 Coupe, C 250 Sedan, E 350 BlueTEC, GLK 350 (up to a total of $1,350/$1,350/$2,550/$1,650 including taxes) for lease programs and (up to a total of $1,950/$1,950/$3,150/$2,250 including taxes) for finance programs. Payment waivers are only applicable on new 2012 C-Class Coupe, Sedan, GLK-Class and E-Class. Not applicable to AMG models. Lease and finance offers based on a new 2012 GLK 350 4MATIC™ available only through Mercedes-Benz Financial Services on approved credit for a limited time. Lease example based on $428 per month for 48 months. Down payment or equivalent trade of $8,348 plus security deposit of $500 and applicable taxes due at lease inception. MSRP starting at $43,800. Lease APR of 4.9% applies. Total obligation is $29,392. 18,000 km/year allowance ($0.20/km for excess kilometres applies). Finance example is based on a 60-month term and a finance APR of 2.9% and an MSRP of $43,800. Monthly payment is $684 (excluding taxes) with $6,885 down payment or equivalent trade in. Cost of borrowing is $2,880 for a total obligation of $47,935. Vehicle licence, insurance, registration and PPSA (if applicable) are extra. Dealer may lease or finance for less. Offers may change without notice and cannot be combined with any other offers. See your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for details or call the Mercedes-Benz Customer Relations Centre at 1-800-387-0100. Offer ends December 30, 2011.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR WINNERS! For seven years, Eileen Wright wanted a boat.

Her husband, Jim, finally gave in, buying her a watercraft originally built in 1953.

Thank you to the following sponsors: Cupido, L’Oro Jewellery, Coty Canada, Chanel, Keurig, King Country Day Spa

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4 GIVE IN TO YOUR DESIRES WITH THESE STYLISH ACCESSORIES AND ARTISTIC ADDITIONS.

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WRITTEN BY MICHAEL HILL

1. If you find comfort in cash, this pillow is for you. Handmade using roughly 50 American greenbacks, the Dollar Pillow will provide solace even when the economy doesn’t. 2. If you’re looking for motivation, look to your wrist for inspiration.

With the diamond-encrusted words “Keep Calm and Carry on” strewn across the ebony cuff of this sparkling bangle, you’ll find the strength to get through anything. 3. Made from red and white crayons, Herb William’s The Color of Luck dice literally melds tools of art with tools of chance – and the result is nothing short of a winner. 4. Turn your bottles of vino into sparkling gems with these unique bottle stoppers that dazzle with natural amethyst and crystal spikes. 5. Straight from the reels of classic Hollywood 62

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sci-fi, Kim Kardashian’s latest line of Beach Bunny Swimwear is out of this world. www.beachbunnyswimwear.com 6. Originally released in 1963, Rolex’s Cosmograph Daytona was designed with the professional racer in mind. Its purposed mechanisms allow drivers to measure circuit time and average speed. www.rolex.com 7. With a 14-karat gold-plated buckle holding a princess-cut amethyst as its crowning jewel, this regal belt is reminiscent of a royal family’s prized heirloom.

8. This unique Infiniti G37 was hand-painted by Montreal artist Heidi Tailler, and auctioned during Masquerave, a culinary event in Whistler, British Columbia that raised funds for the non-governmental organization One Drop. www.infiniti.ca 9. A minimalist, modern masterpiece, the Qlocktwo

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14 Touch uses a stylish matrix of letters, as opposed to numbers, to register time. Perfect for that eccentric techie.

10. A unique twist on vintage furniture, this hot pink chair comes upholstered with patterned fabric that demands to be seen. 11. Delivering best wishes, I-love-yous and congratulatory praise in the form of majestic floral arrangements, Dizennio Floral is your first pick. After all, you never know what can blossom from the right bouquet. www.dizenniofloral.com 12. If your thumb is every colour but green, this simple hand-blown glass terrarium is easy to tend to – a pleasant and distinctive centrepiece.

13. A look Audrey Hepburn would adore, this Jimmy Choo clutch is an elegant accessory for those moonlit galas.

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www.net-a-porter.com 14. For the conscious consumer, Superior Seating Hospitality donates $50 to the Princess Margaret Hospital from the sale of each of these ribbonshaped chairs. www.superiorsh.com 15. Clive Christian’s No. 1 Perfume is heralded as the world’s most expensive perfume. Using exquisite and rare ingredients, this scent will have you smelling like gold. www.holtrenfrew.com 16. Her eyes will sparkle when she beholds the wondrous beauty of the spectacular pieces and custom creations of Valente Jewellers. www.valentejewellers.com

Items 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 9, 10, 12 available at www.vivre.com www.dolcemag.com

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Abigail Disney: filmmaker, philanthropist and famous grandniece of Walt Disney.

The Power of

PERSONAL ENGAGEMENT

Walt Disney’s grandniece knows that life can be far from a fairy tale, but the award-winning filmmaker and philanthropist is bringing us closer. was afraid to be bold in my 20s. The first leap I took was moving from Los Angeles to New York City – far from my family of origin – to have the space to become myself.

My husband and I started a family foundation in 1991 because it seemed like a good thing to do. The next year I joined the NY Women’s Foundation Board. On this board, you don’t just read proposals, you go to Coney Island and talk to ex-heroin addicts about HIV and prostitutes. I learned a ton.

I didn’t travel far when our four kids were little, but I travelled to all sides of my city. In New York, it’s all here. My leash made me go micro before macro.

I saw the local political landscape. I got onto a zillion non-profit boards and volunteered in little organizations. I got to see what people were stressed out by, whether lack of serviceable office equipment, or rats and guns.

When I finally travelled overseas to Liberia and Egypt, I was stunned — both by the severity of the problems, and by how people had the same struggles all over the world. The issues at jobtraining programs in Morocco were the same ones I heard in New York. I’m glad I first took the time to learn deeply about the problems at home.

With our family fund, called the Daphne Foundation, we did something smart.

We took the time to list the grantees 64

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that really moved us. During the reflection process, it was torture to say ‘no’ to requests, but we needed time to get clear. We discovered that we liked to focus on ‘adolescent’ organizations: groups that are no longer “the flavour of the month” for funders although they haven’t yet reached institutional stability. Equipped with this focus, we went seeking our life partners. We have been funding some of the same

have a famous family name. The more people are afraid of or intimidated by me, the less they tell me the truth and the harder it is to truly connect. Every room I walk into I am seen as holding the checkbook to solve everyone’s problems. Sometimes I feel like I’m going to die from all the people who want money from me. But if that’s the price for engagement and self-respect, I’m willing to pay it.

“WHEN I FINALLY TRAVELED OVERSEAS TO LIBERIA AND EGYPT, I WAS STUNNED — BOTH BY THE SEVERITY OF THE PROBLEMS, AND BY HOW PEOPLE HAD THE SAME STRUGGLES ALL OVER THE WORLD.” — Abigail Disney groups now for 10 years. The Daphne Foundation, now endowed and giving $850,000 a year, has been a third of my total giving.

I recently self-financed an incredible film by and about women peacemakers in Liberia called Pray the Devil Back to Hell. I am happily using my last name to get it publicity, glad that I can put both my money and privilege to such powerful use.

The position I am in life is sometimes challenging. I don’t enjoy that many people are terrified of me, if not because I’m wealthy then because I www.dolcemag.com

A lot of people give away the froth on their cappuccino. Why stop there? Over the past 10 years, I give all the income I don’t spend. I’ve given away about a third of my net worth, although it has come back to me as quickly as I’ve given it away. I’ve started making million-dollar grants payable over four to five years.

But bolder giving isn’t just about grant size; it’s about being out in the world and working with other people. I’m far richer a person because of it.

Excerpted from an interview with Abigail Disney on www.BolderGiving.org, where over a hundred profiles of bold givers can be read.

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WRITTEN BY RICHARD RAVENHAWKE

horoscope

LOOK to the CAPRICORN

Stars Dec 22 – Jan 19

Projects on the backburner are soon coming to a close. Walk a straight line and keep your chin up with your eyes to the sky! Financial opportunities look promising, and if you play your cards right, you could finally be in the winner’s circle.

There is a new year coming up that will be filled with opportunity; now is the time to get ready.

AQUARIUS Jan 20 – Feb 18

The next round of challenges will be worth your effort if you can be confident and apply diligence. Sometimes it’s just as important to pick your battlefields, as it is your battles. Remember to stay humble in the midst of victory. Gloating can be very unbecoming.

PISCES Feb 19 – Mar 20

It’s time for a bit of spiritual growth and selfreflection. Sometimes we get so busy with all the external stuff in life that we overlook the little things that can make a difference. It’s time to ask the all-important question: Who am I? If you focus on your real dreams, they may be closer than you think!

ARIES Mar 21 – Apr 19

It is nose-to-the-grindstone time for Aries.

Hard work never hurt anyone, but stress can be a killer. Take a deep breath and before you know it, all will be finished. The best rewards for hard work come with a sense of accomplishment. Knowing that we put the best part of ourselves into our work brings great satisfaction.

TAURUS

Apr 20 – May 20

If you find yourself feeling a little isolated, it may be a good time to reconnect with old friends, family, and the people you hold dear to your heart. It is time to grasp onto the things that matter most, and let go of what you no longer need to carry.

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GEMINI May 21 – Jun 20

Relationship ups-and-downs may soon find balance. Ensure that you think things through before making a life-altering decision. It is time to self-actualize and ask what is important for the short and long term. An old friend thinks of you from time to time.

CANCER Jun 21 – Jul 21

Confusion is the last step before learning.

Soon, all will be made clear and it will be up to if you want to zig or zag. Watch for pictures that match and the sign will be right in front of you. Be studious in your endeavours, and the rewards could be monumental. A secret admirer may reveal him or herself to you soon.

LEO Jul 22 – Aug 21

Change is good. Watch for a sudden Aquarius Aqu q ar figure that may be adding some spice to things hii in a big way. Look for opportunities and seize them as they come along – you don’t want to miss out on potential. Remember that everything is reciprocal: the more you give, the more you will receive.

VIRGO

Aug 22 – Sept 21

Is money continuing to be a perplexing issue? Just focus on what you have to work with and all will be fine in the future. There are energies going on around you that will www.dolcemag.com

Singer-songwriter Rod Stewart turns 67 on January 10.

make it seem confusing, but trust in God’s grand design and you’ll be richer than you think! All things will be revealed in time.

LIBRA Sept 22 – Oct 20

The tides of change may be coming your way. You have been on your present path for quite a while, and may not have been paying as close attention as you could to what has been going on behind the scenes.

Don’t become too confident – pride can all too often come before a fall. Prepare for change, and new challenges will provide an interesting adventure.

SCORPIO Oct 21 – Nov 21

Why is it that everything seems so close but at the same time so far away? Faith and persistence is the key: all things are possible if we believe in ourselves, and it is inner faith that gives us the drive to pursue our goals.

Don’t worry about the little things; they will take care of themselves over time.

SAGITTARIUS Nov 22 – Dec 21

Hard work may pay off in a way that you never expected. Watch for a Virgo figure that may have sought a solution to a question often asked. In the end, only you can make your decisions for yourself. Be prepared for the unexpected or expect to be unprepared. It is going to be an interesting path, depending on your direction.

Richard Ravenhawke 416.898.HAWK (4295) richardravenhawke@yahoo.com

RJ WATCHES SA • 8 RUE ROBERT CÉARD • 1204 GENEVA • SWITZERLAND • T. +41 (0)22 319 29 39 • INFO@ROMAINJEROME.CH • WWW.ROMAINJEROME.CH