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Publisher’s LETTER

W

hat a different world since our editor Teresa and I attended New York Fashion Week for last fashion issue in mid-February! We spent four days at packed fashion shows, busy New York restaurants, and the crowded airport. We worked with our art director Krisha to wrap up the February/March issue

by February 24 before Krisha flew away to her Paris vacation. Then the virus pandemic started, followed by Shelter-In-Place mandate. Teresa has since battled the COVID-19 virus and, thank goodness, won. She pulled together her strength to complete this issue which we dedicate to wellness and beauty. Teresa is continuing her recovery and has volunteered to participate in a 10-week clinical research project for COVID-19. Amazingly, she wrote five articles for this issue while sick in bed. I hope you enjoy reading her articles. Let’s all wish her full recovery very soon.

When I added the Health and Wellness section to this magazine last year, none of us anticipated that subject would become everyone’s focus. This issue, Teresa, Krisha, and our wonderful team of contributors and ambassadors drastically changed our content without the glamorous arts and music galas, colorful scenes, lifestyle stories, deluxe restaurants and charitable events that we sponsored.

The cover story features our exclusive interview of legendary actress Sophia Loren who shares her secrets of wellness and looks fabulous at age 85. I first met Sophia in 1995, when I organized a luncheon for her and her late husband Carlo Ponti at the late, iconic VC Tom Perkins’ Belvedere home. Sophia was 60 then and stunningly beautiful and radiant.

Twenty years later, I attended her 80th birthday celebration, “Bella Italia,” at Festival Napa Valley 2014. Again, she looked absolutely gorgeous. In 2016, I saw Sophia at Festival Napa Valley’s Tribute to Margrit Mondavi and admired her beauty and wellness at age 82. Last October, I attended the 2019 European Culture Prize in Vienna when Sophia was awarded for her contribution to art and culture. At age 85, Sophia still looked stunning. I told myself, “Wow, here’s our cover story for a wellness and beauty issue.” At that time, I didn’t have OLIVIA HSU DECKER OWNER/PUBLISHER Olivia@HauteLivingSF.com www.HauteLivingSF.com Text 415.720.5915 Keep up with us digitally at www.HauteLivingSF.com

faintest idea the COVID-19 pandemic was coming. But now, it all makes sense to feature the ageless Sophia Loren story for all to share in this issue.

I am sure you noticed we don’t have the Scene section in this issue, as all events were cancelled. But we have events photographer Drew Altizer’s story of his artistic photography while he’s not busy taking pictures at events every night. I hope you find it helpful reading our article “Good Mental Health Hacks” for simple wellness practices for complicated times. We are pleased to write that, although 2020 Festival Napa Valley was cancelled, the artists refused to be silenced. The Festival’s Blackburn Music Academy and 126 past and present festival musicians joined forces to create a virtual performance of “Va, Penisro” chorus from Verdi’s opera Nabucco, a moving hymn that has served as a rally song of hope and resilience for people around the world. The Remote Ensemble each recorded their part and synchronized into one glorious performance and dedicated to the essential workers.

Also, our Haute Residence section features three resort-like sanctuary estates in Silicon Valley and Napa Valley, ideal for working at home family and homeschooled children to enjoy spacious land and amenities without leaving the gate.

We hope you enjoy reading our new content that are focused on home, wellness, health and beauty. Please give us your feedback and share your story with us.

Stay safe, stay well, and stay strong,

1

California Lifestyle Collection Contemporary View Home

Belvedere, California

4 Bedrooms | 4 Full Baths | 1 Half-Baths | 2 Family Rooms Beautiful renovated contemporary home with private courtyard and huge level lawn, panoramic views of San Francisco, Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito and Mt. Tam. Spacious living room, kitchen, dining room, family room combo, opening onto view decks and courtyard with firepit. Mahogany and Brazilian tigerwood, granite counters floors and ceilings, top of line appliances, new metal roof, new retaining wall with huge lawn, rain-water cistern, New Zealand doors,

$6,100,000

Fleetwood windows, Lutron shades and lighting, located on the most prestigious street of Belvedere and South facing for all day sun and views. Approved plans to build one more bedroom with bath and new 2-car garage.

For more detailed information, please visit: 105GoldenGate.com

Olivia Hsu Decker | SanFranciscoFineHomes.com Cell: 415.720.5915 | Olivia@SanFranciscoFineHomes.com | Lic.# 00712080

California Lifestyle Collection Contemporary View Home

Olivia Hsu Decker | SanFranciscoFineHomes.com Cell: 415.720.5915 | Olivia@SanFranciscoFineHomes.com | Lic.# 00712080

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4 Beds | 3 Baths | 1 Half-Baths | 3,141± sq. ft.

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This immaculately maintained and private custom-built estate is

throughout, highly insulated construction, and generous usage of interior

prominently perched on the southern side of Belvedere Island. It is

and exterior natural cedar wood. This property is one of the few private

graced by wall-to-wall windows for enjoying the panoramic bay views of

Belvedere parcels that are inset and have amazing wind protection. This

San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito and Mt. Tamalpais. This

is 3,141± sq. ft. of modern elegance on a very private, custom landscaped,

sophisticated and luxurious estate is a masterpiece of modern design

large down-sloped parcel. The home boasts five off-street parking

and craftsmanship featuring custom onyx walls, whitewashed walnut

spaces and an additional oversized 722± sq. ft. 2.5 car garage with

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floors, green slate decks, stairs, walkways, and Brazilian rain forest marble throughout. Every detail was carefully selected and quality

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crafted. Highlights include automatic multi-shade systems, heated floors

18Eucalyptus.com

Olivia Hsu Decker | SanFranciscoFineHomes.com Cell: 415.720.5915 | Olivia@SanFranciscoFineHomes.com | Lic.# 00712080

California Lifestyle Collection Belvedere, California

Olivia Hsu Decker | SanFranciscoFineHomes.com Cell: 415.720.5915 | Olivia@SanFranciscoFineHomes.com | Lic.# 00712080

Haute Living MAGAZINE PUBLISHER Olivia Hsu Decker Olivia@HauteLivingSF.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Teresa Rodriguez Teresa@HauteLivingSF.com ART DIRECTOR Krisha Chhaganlal Krisha@HauteLivingSF.com COPY EDITOR Karen M. Smith henhousepublishing@gmail.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Stephanie Block, Jennifer Borden, Maria Castellucci, Laurie Jo Miller Farr, Steph Keay, Jennifer Raiser, Samara Diapoulos, and Camille Hayes LUXURY AUTOS CONTRIBUTOR Tim Lappen TL@JMBM.com WINE COUNTRY AMBASSADOR Kelly E. Carter Kelly@KellyeCarter.com LITERARY AMBASSADOR Stephanie Block Stephanie@HauteLivingSF.com HEALTH AND WELLNESS AMBASSADOR Lydia Graham LIFE COACH AMBASSADOR Nina Clark Ericson, Ph.D. ninacericson@att.net SUBSCRIPTION AND DISTRIBUTION INQUIRIES Olivia Hsu Decker Olivia@HauteLivingSF.com AD SALES REPRESENTATIVE Cindy Pelland Cindy.Pelland@HauteLivingSF.com ACCOUNTING Sarah Trissel St.bayarea@gmail.com LEGAL Carl Lippenberger Carl@lippenbergerlaw.com

PHOTO CREDIT: FOUR SEASONS OAHU

Haute Living San Francisco Visit us at www.HauteLivingSF.com

View of Four Seasons Oahu’s western coast

For those seeking an exceptional life

75

YEARS 1945-2020

OLD FORT BAY, BAHAMAS

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Ca’Liza is a Palladian style Estate perched on a ridge with 75’of beachfront.

This estate offers 381’ of canalfrontage on a 0.66 acre lot. Main house

The main house features 7 BR plus two 1 BR cottages and 2 staff apts.

features 3 BR, 3 baths plus a 2 BR guest cottage. Gated community.

Property ID 80971

Property ID 40074

George.Damianos@SIRbahamas.com +1.242.424.9699

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HARBOUR ISLAND, BAHAMAS

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Situated 25 ft above sea level, this estate offers 260’ on the harbour and

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4 BR, 4 baths on 1.4 acres. Guest cottage, pool and great rental income.

offers breathtaking, 180-degree ocean views. 3 BR, 4.5 baths and pool.

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DAMIANOS SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY | HEAD OFFICE • NASSAU, BAHAMAS | +1.242.322.2305 | SIRBAHAMAS.COM |

TABLE of CONTENTS

Sophia Loren

1 10

PUBLISHERS’ LETTER EDITOR’S LETTER

EVENT PREVIEWS 50

Fesitval Napa Valley postponed, but not silenced

52

A new facet to Drew Altizer Photography

HAUTE HOME 12

An interview with designer Gioi Tran

HAUTE ART explored

HAUTE DRINKS

18

The Knickerbocker Hotel’s rooftop bar is an oasis high above Times Square

HAUTE BEAUTY 60

HAUTE HOTEL

22

Four Seasons Oahu, the forefront of the wellness revolution

HAUTE WELLNESS 64

Sophie Azouaou’s tips on creating a calm and comfortable home sanctuary

Two Bay Area jewelry designers share their passion

68

The enchanted world of essential oils

HAUTE PROFILES

72

HAUTE SHOPPING

26

30

34

38

Margaret Mitchell talks about beauty, endurance, strength, and compassion

COVER STORY

James Lin of Omni Hotel shares a fresh take on luxury

Legendary, ageless beauty: Sophia Loren

HAUTE TRAVEL 84

Finding wellness in Carefree, Arizona

Bricoleur Vineyards, Sonoma’s newest wine destination

86

Two new deluxe hotels in downtown San Luis Obispo

Q&A with Reed Krakoff, the chief artistic officer at Tiffany & Co.

90

RED Mountain Resort in Rossland, Canada

42

Dr. Rachel Zoffness shares simple wellness practices for complicated times

46

Interview with pride leader Mark Rhoades

ON THE COVER SOPHIA LOREN PHOTO COURTESY OF FESTIVAL NAPA VALLEY Haute Living, San Francisco. www.HauteLivingSF.com

8

CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa

Breakfast at Tiffany’s

Haute Art

Festival Napa Valley Blackburn Academy Orchestra musicians

2019 San Francisco Decorator Showcase Ballroom transformed by Gioi Tran

Haute Beauty

HAUTE RESIDENCE 94

Shelter-in-place at these resort-like home sanctuaries

HAUTE AUTO 98

Audi R-8 V10 performance Spyder Quattro and E-tron

HAUTE AMBASSADOR 102 Kelly E. Carter talks about wine country going virtual: experience wine tastings from the comfort of your home 104 Lydia Graham shares tips from “America’s Sleep Doctor,” Dr. Michael Breus for better sleep 106 Stephanie Block enjoys shares books locals are reading 108 Life coach ambassador Dr. Nina Clark Ericson shares tips to cope with five challenging areas in life

HAUTE SEAT 112 At home with philanthropist Farah Makras

9

Editor-in-Chief ’s LETTER

I

t’s times like these when we turn to books and magazines for much-needed inspiration. Setting aside our electronics for a warm cup of tea and the antiquated art of reading words on paper affords a sweet comfort from the disheartening news.

Because so many of our beloved restaurants shuttered, events

canceled, and theaters closed, our content for this issue had to take a dramatic turn. The incredible team of writers at Haute Living, San Francisco welcomed the challenge and helped redirect our editorial with grace. Publishing a magazine is like navigating a huge barge. Once it’s in motion, it takes enormous effort to change course. So, making drastic changes during production is very tricky and somewhat mindboggling. But our fantastic team did it.

COVID-19 has taken its toll personally. I was bedridden for three weeks fighting for my life. If it weren’t for the leadership of our Art Director Krisha Chhaganlal, this issue would still be floating somewhere in the ether. Karen Smith, our copy editor, also stepped up, and the two of them juggled 110 pages of content, copy edits, layouts, and photo captions like skilled ring leaders. I am humbled by the persistence and dedication of our stellar team. It is an honor to work with them.

With Earth Day and Pride canceled, our writers Samara Diapoulos and Laurie Jo Miller Farr each interviewed a leader in each movement, Mark Rhoades and Sophie Azouaou, respectively. All the beautiful events we support and planned to cover were canceled, so we asked Drew Altizer, San Francisco’s society photographer, to share with us what he’s been working on during this crazy time. Since we couldn’t cover Haute Dining, we created a section called Haute Home, where we speak with Gioi Tran, the famed interior designer hired to outfit

TERESA RODRIGUEZ EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Haute Living San Francisco Teresa@HauteLivingSF.com www.HauteLivingSF.com

the new Haute Living Lounge on the Bay. Please welcome Nina Clark Ericson, Ph.D., who is our new Life Coach Ambassador. For more than 20 years, she has integrated both psychotherapy and coaching to help people live their best lives.

Since we have a few more weeks before we’re free to leave our homes,

PHOTO CREDIT: ©VINCENT GOTTI, HAIR AND MAKE UP BY NELLIE MUGANDA

we wanted to include some dreamy destinations to whet your palette and arouse your imagination. Our Travel section is quite robust, with a focus on health and wellness. We know that this, too, shall pass. In the meantime, we hope you are safe and well with your family. May this issue bring a little sunshine and inspiration into your home.

To your health!

10

San Francisco’s CONTRIBUTORS Stephanie Block

Laurie Jo Miller Farr

in RNDC and Young’s Market Company. She holds a

cated urbanite who loves walkable cities. As a San Fran-

WSET 3 certification in wine and spirits and is a re-

cisco-based travel writer, she enjoys views from its crazy

cent graduate of an executive MBA program from both

signature hills following half a lifetime promoting her two

Brown University and IE Madrid. Previously, Steph-

hometowns—a couple of oh-so-flat places—New York City

anie ran St. Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winery’s social

and London. Laurie’s byline is found in USA Today, CBS,

media and worked Napa harvest 2016. Stephanie has

Where Traveler, Haute Living, Epicure, Frommers, Fast

championed gender equality as a national board member of the US National

Company, Napa Valley Life Magazine, Food & Travel Magazine, Eater, Google

Committee for UN Women and once traveled the globe as an award-winning

Touring Bird, and other major media titles. She was awarded Yahoo Contributor

travel writer. She has lived in six countries and visited over 80. Elle adore parler

of the Year and is a member of the Society of American Travel Writers.

Stephanie Block is a third-generation family partner

Laurie Jo Millar Farr is a US/UK dual citizen and dedi-

français.

Steph Keay

Jennifer Boden

Steph Keay is a Canadian freelance and technical writ-

Jennifer Boden is a freelance wine, food, and travel writ-

er currently based in Silicon Valley. After completing

er based in beautiful Sonoma County and has an exten-

her Bachelor of Commerce in her hometown of Cal-

sive career in journalism. She contributes to KRON 4

gary, Alberta, she spent a summer in Croatia assisting

News San Francisco, ABC 10News San Diego, and oth-

The Yacht Week with events management on the is-

ers. Prior to her writing career, she worked for several

lands of Hvar and Vis. Formerly in PR/marketing, she

network affiliates as a news anchor and executive pro-

has also placed stories for a variety of clients—includ-

ducer. She earned her degree in broadcast journalism

ing tech leaders, international artists, and acclaimed actors and musicians—

from Arizona State University’s prestigious Walter Cronkite School of Journal-

with ABC, FOX, NBC, San Francisco Chronicle, The Mercury News, Ameri-

ism and Mass Communication.

can Way, and others. In her spare time, she enjoys adventuring, photography, and travel—all of which she documents on on her website, StephKeay.com.

Maria Castellucci

Samara Diapoulos

of three children, Maria Castelucci earned her BA in

tions and marketing leader who has represented and

finance in 2001 from Dominican University on a ten-

promoted the world’s leading hotels, artists, and luxu-

nis scholarship. She later studied at New York Univer-

ry lifestyle brands. After serving as the director of pub-

sity and the London School of Economics. Maria took a

lic relations for Fairmont San Francisco, she founded

strong interest in global affairs, which led her to become

Samara Public Relations. Throughout her career, Sa-

an ambassador for nonprofit foundation Roots of Peace.

mara has forged strategic partnerships to raise funds

In 2012 with her siblings, Maria founded Castellucci Napa Family, a luxury wine

for non-profit organizations including Meals on Wheels and The Leukemia

and real estate brand that has expanded into the boutique hotel business. She

& Lymphoma Society. Samara graduated from U.C. Berkeley with a B.A. in

now runs two inns, a wine label, and a family real estate development company.

English literature.

Entrepreneur, first generation American, and mother

Samara Diapoulos is an award-winning public rela-

We are very fortunate to have such a prestigious list of writers. Each has succeeded in their respective careers as bestselling authors, business leaders, entrepreneurs, and on-air talent. We are honored and humbled by their commitment to creating content that is relevant, timely, and really fun to read!

11

HauteHOME

Vernon and Gioi, Applegate Tran Interiors

12

INSIDE THE INTERIORS: CREATIVITY, IMAGINATION, INSPIRATION An Interview with Gioi Tran

PHOTO CREDITS: (TOP) ©CHRISTOPHER STARK (BOTTOM) ©JASMIN VAN T PHOTOGRAPHY

BY LAURIE JO MILLER FARR

San Francisco Decorator Showcase Ballroom THERE’S NOTHING ORDINARY, NOTHING EXPECTED about a windowless ballroom on the lower level of an 18,000-square-foot 1904 Presidio Heights home that’s modeled after Le Petit Trianon at Versailles.

But Gioi Tran and Vernon Applegate of Applegate Tran Interiors know how to accept a challenge. Add enough massive mirrors to make Marie Antoinette smile, plus a fabulous bar, a curated collection of customized whimsical art, et voilà...

In the designers’ words, “Eighteenth century Europe meets the 21st century world in a contemporary ballroom layered through time, connecting generations with art, light, and music.”

Where are such visions born? How do they take form and flight? What about the practicalities of interior design at home? We talked to Gioi Tran, Founder and Principal Designer to get a peek inside his world of the creative imagination, inspired by a love of art, cooking, flower arranging and entertaining.

HL: AS A DESIGNER, CAN YOU DESCRIBE WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU WALK

clients’ emotions, taking them to a place they couldn’t have reached on their own. During those

INTO A SPACE FOR THE FIRST TIME?

first moments I dream of how to pay tribute to the architecture, how to elevate and improve the space. I contemplate a client’s personality to form ideas. The creativity found in that initial moment produces first instincts that often prove to be the foundation for the design. Of course, trusting those

thing magical. I say “magical” because once a vision has been implemented it generally stirs our

instincts comes with time and experience.

PHOTO CREDITS: ©CHRISTOPHER STARK

GT: It’s always an exciting moment as I envision countless possibilities to transform it into some-

13

HauteHOME HL: AND AS A MULTI-FACETED ARTIST AND DESIGNER, DO SEVERAL OPTIONS SPEAK TO YOU? GT: As both an artist and designer I have a very clear point of view. So does my husband, Vernon— amongst his many talents are his incredible sense of color and a knack for mixing patterns and textures.

We often come to a design from slightly different viewpoints, but we completely trust one other’s creativity and judgment. By evaluating all ideas we create and present a clear vision that then drives the process.

Our clients will provide input on the final choices.

HL: DO YOUR SENSES KICK IN TO PLAY OFF ONE ANOTHER, EVEN BEYOND THE VISUAL? GT: Great interior designers must use all five senses to create a beautiful, comfortable and functional environment. The sixth sense? Understanding what clients want as we consider lifestyle, entertaining, relaxing at home and how each person is unique. We consider how materials feel to the touch and how sound is distributed through the home. Practical aspects like ventilation must be considered. I am a passionate chef, so when designing a kitchen and a dining room, smell and taste come into play as I think about the ways presentation has an effect on how food tastes. We apply this approach in choosing the appropriate finishes, also in assisting clients with their selection of cookware, tabletop and linens. The right pot can do a lot for the flavor of a dish, the choice of a plate makes a difference on how the food is presented, and different glasses can change the experience of a particular wine.

“There has to be a flow, sprinkled with surprises as we consider both aesthetic and practical aspects using art and accessories to express personality.”

HL: DO YOU ENVISION WHO WILL STEP IN AND WHAT WILL OCCUR IN THE SPACE? GT: For sure! We imagine ourselves in our clients’ shoes—as well as their guests’—as they travel through the home, paying special attention to the entry as a first impression. Aesthetically, the interiors should represent who the owners are. There has to be a flow, sprinkled with surprises as we consider both aesthetic and practical aspects using art and accessories to express personality. From a practical perspective, interiors require both form and function, two driving forces of good design for both everyday purposes and for entertaining. We entertain a good deal, so our own home becomes a testing laboratory. As a result, we know how to accommodate a small dinner party or a large group. In large spaces we create areas for a more intimate feel, and in smaller homes we thoroughly plan for flexibility and storage to accommodate bigger events as well.

14

Russian Hills residence

15

HL: CASE IN POINT: TELL US MORE ABOUT THIS STUNNING MIRRORED BALLROOM YOU CREATED FOR THE SAN FRANCISCO DECORATOR SHOWCASE LAST YEAR. GT: We spent a lot of time in the ballroom to physically and mentally study all the components, scale and proportions, as well as the original design details of the room. We thought about its original use and how it could be best utilized today, leading us to design a 21st century private nightclub. We designed around multiple seating groups, and of course, an all-important bar area. A handful of people could feel comfortable having drinks or playing a board game in one area, or 100 people might be entertained by performers on the stage. It is a flexible, fluid space, so we chose organic and curved shapes for that reason.

HL: CAN YOU TAKE US ON THE JOURNEY IN YOUR IMAGINATION THAT ALLOWS A DULL WINDOWLESS ROOM TO BECOME A CAPTIVATING SLEEK AND SEXY MIX OF BERLIN NIGHTCLUB MEETS THE COURT OF VERSAILLES? GT: A windowless room has its challenges but it also allowed us to control the environment to create an emotional vibe. We decided to emphasize details inspired by Le Trianon at Versailles, envisioning a contemporary space that, while paying tribute to the original 18th century inspiration, also has today’s Zeitgeist. By painting the boiserie extremely dark we contrasted the mirrors’ reflective surfaces to create a sexy backdrop for the contemporary furnishings and art, honoring the Rococo while adding drama and whimsy. Kyle Bunting made a cowhide panel suspended from the ceiling based on the layout of the gardens of Versailles. Linda Horning painted male and female 18th century style portraits on multiple clear acrylic panels to create three-dimensional viewpoints. She also fashioned an over-scaled sculpture of a Rococo period gown from plaster that became the centerpiece of the stage. Floating charcoal columns by Korean artist Seon Ghi Bahk were a nod to historic architecture while also feeling ephemeral and organic in a space that is dramatic and void of nature. We played on the contrast of 18th and 21st centuries, emphasizing commonalities in the desire to entertain contrasted with the distinctions of how.

HL: AT APPLEGATE TRAN, WHAT ARE THE OVERARCHING STYLISTIC CHANGES YOU’VE SEEN IN INTERIORS OVER THE PAST TWO DECADES? GT: People live and entertain differently today than they did even 20 years ago. There is less separation between rooms and more open spaces, therefore more continuity is needed throughout. Styles are an ever-changing process, yet excellent design endures the test of time, as proven by some of the greats that have come before us. We always aim to design interiors that last. While we may revisit a home a decade later and may refresh some areas, we also realize that when clients invest in quality design it pays off in the long run.

HL: ARE THERE ANY PREFERENCES OR TRENDS THAT ARE SIGNATURE BAY AREA? GT: Aesthetic preferences in the Bay Area tend to be more conservative than in New York or Los Angeles and many areas in Europe. Clients here are somewhat more practical and often more cautious about fully expressing themselves. Many may select interior designers with a signature style that appeals to them, rather than collaborating with a firm that offers more variety in styles and will create a vision that is particular to their tastes. Occasionally, prospective clients question whether our portfolio reflects their style, not realizing that together we create their style. Just like fashion stylists help bring out someone’s best features and personality, we do the same in a home. Personally, I would like to see more homeowners in the Bay Area trust interior designers to come up with a bespoke vision truly created for them.

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HL: YOUR PORTFOLIO SHOWCASES SUCH A BROAD RANGE OF STYLES, FROM

spaces with contemporary furniture, vintage pieces, bold lighting, our personal collection of objects

WOODSY TAHOE RETREAT TO AN EDGY URBAN PENTHOUSE. IT MAY BE UN-

from our travels and lots of art. It is currently mostly my own art, as our home has become a testing

FAIR TO ASK YOUR PERSONAL FAVORITE STYLE, SO DO TELL US ABOUT YOUR

ground and gallery for my work. The pièce de résistance many may feel is our 14-foot steel dining

OWN INTERIOR AT HOME.

table. We have several dinner parties every week and I love setting the table in a different way each time and creating bold floral arrangements. I find the latter very meditative and flowers bring life

GT: Indeed, which emphasizes my previous point. We really don’t have a favorite style. While Ver-

and nature into our very urban and industrial home. I express much of my love and passion through

non generally leans more to contemporary, I also absolutely love traditional interiors. These two

cooking, finding pleasure in spending time at this table with my friends. So the dining table may be

perspectives help us understand clients with all sorts of preferences. We believe that good design

the hearth of our home, so to speak.

PHOTO CREDITS: ©CHRISTOPHER STARK

is not necessarily related to a particular style, and definitely not based on trends. Again, each home requires attention to the architecture, and we have been lucky to work with some great architects.

HL: WE JUST LOVE THE LOOK OF THE RUSSIAN HILL PROJECT THAT PAIRS

Once you add the clients’ tastes the design direction becomes clear. Who wants their place to look

CLASSICAL AND CONTEMPORARY IN COLORFUL HARMONY. TELL US MORE?

like the Joneses?

Our previous home in the East Bay was a beautiful Tudor, which influenced the interior to be more

GT: Exactly the goal. We paired traditional with contemporary furniture and fabrics which we

transitional. Our current home in San Francisco is an old warehouse that was extremely raw when

layered with bold color and mixtures of patterns and textures. We did not adhere to a color scheme

we first purchased it. We celebrated its industrial bones and informality by not covering rough

throughout, but simply addressed each room as if it were its own painting, adding neutral areas like

edges and flaws, which contrasts beautifully with the elegance and sophistication we added. The

the kitchen and bathroom as respites from the intensity of some of the shades. While the dining

contemporary Poliform kitchen perfectly nestles into a corner, and additional cabinetry in the same

room walls are an enveloping dark blue, the living room’s light walls emphasize the color accents of

finish with glass doors creates a hallway to separate the TV lounge area from the powder room

the furniture and art. In contrast, the bedroom has a softer, more restful palette. Each room offers its

and main living area. Sleek finishes complement the rough concrete floor and walls. We layered the

own surprises and balance of color and texture.

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BY TERESA RODRIGUEZ

HauteDRINKS

ON ST. CLOUD NINE The Knickerbocker Hotel’s rooftop bar is an oasis high above the heart of Times Square Edging the bright lights of Broadway, The Knickerbocker blends luxury, history, and tranquility in an unprecedented combination rarely executed by other hotels. With 116 years of storied history, The Knickerbocker is a legendary New York landmark reborn. Originally opened

by John Jacob Astor in 1906 as a lavish, “Gatsbyesque” hotel, The Knickerbocker has since been reimagined into a sophisticated urban sanctuary filled with fabled legends.

Perched above New York City’s iconic Times Square, the hotel’s rooftop bar, St. Cloud, serves as an oasis from the flurry of 42nd Street, the Broadof the hotel’s 16-story Beaux-Art façade, St. Cloud offers the most unobstructed views of New York, and a quiet getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city below. Named for the late 19th century hotel that originally occupied the site, St. Cloud spans 7,500 square feet and offers polished décor, outdoor and indoor seating options, and unrivaled views of the famous Waterford crystal New Year’s

Above New York City’s iconic Times Square, the hotel’s rooftop bar, St. Cloud

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Eve Ball.

PHOTO CREDIT: COURTESY OF ST. CLOUD NINE

way craze, and bustling tourists. Situated on top

St. Cloud Rooftop - Entrance

St. Cloud Rooftop - Sky Pod

Exiting the elevator to the 17th floor, guests will discover a sleek indoor bar, the exclusive Waterford Crystal Lounge, and an ultra-luxe private room. Outside on the

mix of cirque-like, biergarten, and speakeasy fun, lush living walls of greenery extending from the outdoor bar bring luster and life to the building.

terrace, they’ll find it quite hard to turn their heads from the three lavish Sky Pods—VIP

The true beauty of this haven lies in its nature to seamlessly transform from a re-

lounges carefully nestled into the corners of the rooftop—that boast plush detailing to

laxed terrace, popular for happy hour drinks, to a sleek late-night spot where guests

cushion guests for their sky-high, showstopping experience. Adding to the eclectic

can enjoy craft cocktails and deejays, all while overlooking the Crossroads of the World.

Rooftop outdoor seating

St. Cloud Rooftop - Indoor Bar

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HauteDRINKS From exploding flower cannons in 1908 to today’s lavish soirees, St. Cloud continues to offer the most dazzling New Year’s Eve celebrations.

The epic signature experience begins the evening before the New Year’s Day when St. Cloud transforms into the most exclusive space in New York City. Offering a glamourous escape from the millions below who gather to ring in the New Year, St. Cloud is 150 feet away from the dazzling glass ball where guests enjoy the world’s most exclusive view of the famed ball drop. Throughout the evening, guests are granted unlimited access to a top shelf open bar, hors d’oeuvres, food stations, and live entertainment.

Once the clock strikes twelve, the incredible soiree unites as one for a champagne toast curating a once-in-a-lifetime experience. When the party ends, the luxurious rooms and suites of The Knickerbocker await to top off the most memorable night of the year.

Those craving the best seats in the house can reserve one of the three illuminated private Sky Pods complete with bottle service from an exquisite selection of top shelf libations; space heaters, velour blankets, and heat lamps to keep cozy; and party favors and a dedicated butler to ensure your most memorable experience yet.

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But a great atmosphere is nothing without fabulous cocktails. St. Cloud offers a progressive cocktail menu, bottled craft beers, and seasonally focused small plates to enjoy while taking in expansive views of the Big Apple. One of the most requested cocktails is served with a side of history, as the hotel claims to have invented the original martini back in 1912. Legend has it that The Knickerbocker’s house bartender, Martini di Arma di Taggia, served hotel regular John D. Rockefeller an “unfamiliar concoction” of dry gin, vermouth, and a dash or orange bitters, which he loved so much he ended up naming the unique glass after its creator. The martini soon became a house favorite, as legends like F. Scott Fitzgerald sipped on the original creation during the time when he called The Knickerbocker home.

The hotel once served as New York’s premier playground for legendary political icons, actresses, oil tycoons, and sports figures.

An abundance of history lies within The Knickerbocker’s walls. The hotel once served as New York’s premier playground for legendary political icons, actresses, oil tycoons, and sports figures.

PHOTO CREDIT: COURTESY OF ST. CLOUD NINE

St. Cloud is also home to the very grounds where Babe Ruth was traded from the Red Sox to the Yankees, birthing “The Curse of the Bambino.” It’s where famed operatic tenor Enrico Caruso is said to have recited his vows soon after becoming The Knickerbocker’s most famous resident.

While seamlessly blending tales of the Golden Age with a modern-day retreat, St. Cloud at The Knickerbocker offers an experience like no other and is guaranteed to have you feeling like you’re on cloud nine.

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BY TERESA RODRIGUEZ

HauteHOTEL

View of Oahu’s western coast

FOUR SEASONS RESORT OAHU AT KO OLINA At the forefront of the wellness revolution

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BEFORE YOU KNOW IT, THE WORLD WILL BE BACK TO ITS FRENETIC PACE, bulldozing through our lives and running us down. Soon we’ll return to “business as usual.”

But if we have learned anything from being under the shelter-in-place order is that we long for balance. We have a new appreciation for the freedom that travel gives us, as well as a good dose of the importance of staying healthy—both mind and body. The Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina leads the charge in the health and wellness space with signature spa programs to promote healthy living and work-life balance. They have recently introduced “the Vessel,” the world’s first-ever, multi-sensory, virtual reality wellness experience. The luxury resort is the first property to debut this offering and encourages guests to prioritize their mental wellbeing. After this global pandemic, that’s exactly what we need.

PHOTO COURTESY OF FOUR SEASONS

Resort pool

View from The Penthouse Suite

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HauteHOTEL Cabana at adult infinity pool

Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina worked closely with Sensync, the immersive wellness company founded by Dr. Adam Gazzaley and Dr. Alex Theory, to create the ultimate mind-and-body experience. The Vessel is a virtual experience that combines mixed reality innovation with advanced therapeutic technology to create a revolutionary, immersive, sensory experience.

The spaceship-like Vessel takes you on a customized, visual reality journey that helps to “reset” your brain to achieve a more tranquil state of mind. Journeys such as Deep Space, Ocean Cove, and Zen Garden range from 20 to 80 minutes, based on your preference. Vibroacoustic transducers simulate vibration and tactile sensations that the guest perceives through the senses of vision, hearing, and touch. These visual, auditory, and tactile sensations are presented in uni-

Entrance to lobby

Aerial view of adult infinity pool

son and provide a multi-sensory experience designed to “massage the brain.”

Located in the expansive, 35,000-square-foot day spa, the Vessel is inspired by ancient Hawaiian healing traditions and offers various Sodashi and Circadia face therapies, body treatments, and massages in both indoor and outdoor treatment rooms. In addition to multiple therapies, the spa is also home to a Billy Yamaguchi Salon. It features feng shui stylings by the master stylist and Kristin Wood Lashes (Hawaii’s premier eyelash studio) and barbershop for nail, hair, and makeup services as well as two Himalayan salt chambers.

TOES-IN-SAND DINING Nothing heals the soul like warm, soft sand between our toes after being stuck inside for weeks on end.

The perfect duo is a delicious meal al fresco on the beach to fill those lungs with crisp, salty air. Set along the resort’s white sand beach, restaurateur and chef

Outdoor seating at Noe

Michael Mina is at the helm of the island’s premier line-to-table seafood restaurant, aptly named Mina’s Fish House. With a lively, casual atmosphere, you can take in the stunning, panoramic ocean views while indulging in the freshest island catch. From gigantic seafood towers and buckets of iced fish to Hawaiianstyle lobster and clam bakes, Mina’s Fish House is the quintessential Hawaiian dining experience. Also available are private, toes-in-sand dining experiences on the beach where you are encouraged to show up unshod and enjoy all the exceptional service offered in the restaurant—just on the beach.

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Oceanfront room accommodations

Private spa treatment rooms

ACTIVITIES From outrigger canoe rides to intimate waterfall hikes, there is no shortage of adventure at Four Seasons Oahu to keep you energized. The property offers oneof-a-kind experiences to some of the most exclusive spots on the island as well as easy access to activities such as stand-up paddle boarding and outrigger canoe paddling from the beach, scuba diving and free diving academies on resort, deep-sea fishing, spearfishing, helicopter tours, horseback riding, cliff jumping, tennis, golf, hiking, and morning yoga on the lawn.

Just what your cooped-up body desires—precious time outside.

Camp Kohola at the Hideaway is a complimentary, Toes-in sand dining at Mina’s Fish House

Epic seafood platter from Mina’s Fish House

supervised program for kids ages 5 to 12, creating memorable and educational experiences in a casual, fun environment. Camp Kohola at the Hideaway takes advantage of the resort’s expansive grounds and laidback Hawaiian feel. The hub of activity is located within the state-of-the-art Camp Kohola center, complete with a media room, a “Creativity Zone,” and a game room.

Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina overlooks Oahu’s sunny, western, rugged coast. A conveni-

Sensync experience at Naupaka Spa & Wellness

Sensync experience at Naupaka Spa & Wellness

ent 35 minutes from downtown Honolulu, Ko Olina (“Place of Joy” in Hawaiian) is edged to the north by the pristine nature preserve of Lanikuhonua

Paddle boarding outside Four Seasons Oahu

and to the south by four white sand beach coves. www.fourseasons.com/oahu/

The Wedding Chapel

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BY JENNIFER BODEN

HauteSHOPPING

HAUTE COSTUME JEWELRY AND BOHO FLAIR GEMS Two Bay Area Designers Share Their Passion GABY GHORBANI’S HANDCRAFTED LINE, LOVE YOU MORE, OFFERS BEAUTIFUL JEWELRY with a meaningful story behind it. Many of the pieces are crafted by small groups of Mexican women, empowering them and lending to unique jewelry styles. In addition, Love You More donates a portion of its profits to charity, including several in the Bay Area.

Wall Street investment banker turned jewelry connoisseur, Rosalina Lydster founded her couture line, Jewelry by Rosalina, in 2002. Most recently, she launched a more affordable haute couture costume jewelry line—Soleil by Rosalina. As a third-generation jeweler, she inherited her love of design from her mother, who dressed socialites and dignitaries in Saigon throughout the 1960s.

The Eternity Bracelet in gold

HAUTE LIVING X GABY GHORBANI

Gaby Ghorbani, jewelry designer

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Q&A

Tell me about Love You More. What initially sparked your passion and ambition to create this business?

Love You More is a beautiful line of jewelry and accessories handcrafted by small groups of women from different parts of Mexico. Being born and raised in Mexico, I saw many children even younger than me at the time who were working or begging for food. I constantly tried to help in any way I could, even as a child. Once I had more resources, I was able to give more and devote more time and energy to making a greater impact.

I feel inspired by our artisans in Mexico who wanted to learn different skills, be independent, and support their families. I believe that giving these talented women jobs would help empower them. That is the inspiration behind the original Love You More necklace—to simply love more. In fact, I have been saying this for years to my own kids, and I honestly believe that if humanity and society loved more, the world would be a much better place. I am beyond happy and grateful that I was able to find a way to give these women jobs and help spread more love in the world.

I also wanted to find a way to financially support the organizations in my community, and my nonprofit, Pledge to Humanity, where we work with local youth to become compassionate, lifelong volunteers.

The Lucy Love in diamonds

What are three of your favorite designs?

1. The “Love Bar” necklace in gold encompasses the beauty of love with its simplicity, elegance, and meaning. Our signature necklace makes the perfect gift to show how much you love a special someone or to just spread more love in the world.

2. The “Lucy Love” necklace in white diamonds in the Lucy Love Collection is made to be an elegant statement that encompasses the meaning of the simplicity of love. This timeless piece can be passed down, so the meaning of love will always be with you and your loved ones.

3. The “Eternity” bracelet in silver and gold, worn single or layered, is an elegant touch to any jewelry collection. It’s the simplest must-have piece to complete your bracelet stack. This beautiful, timeless bracelet with glitter beads, featuring a cute XO, GG tag, is the perfect addition to make any outfit classy, chic, and meaningful.

PHOTO CREDITS: ©CASEY STODDARD

The Love Bar in gold

What is the main message you want customers to take away from your brand?

We want the main message to be bigger than jewelry. We want our customers to know that the jewelry they are wearing has a soul and a story behind it. Some pieces within our collections have been handmade by women who put all their efforts and love into one individual piece. That is why all our jewelry is not only made to look classy and feminine, but has a boho flair that reflects the handmade nature of jewelry as well. We hope our customers feel like they are supporting a larger cause when wearing our pieces and are reminded to love more.

What are your goals for Love You More?

I would love for everyone to have at least one piece of jewelry and know its story. It would create so much change in the world. Everyone needs to be loved more sometimes, and you need that from others. Sometimes, you need someone to tell you they love you more and to be compassionate. Spreading this idea around the world would be my goal.

The Whitney 10K gold and pearl necklace

Love You More artisan

Art Institute of Chicago entrance

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BY JENNIFER BODEN

HauteSHOPPING

Rosalina Lydster, jewelry designer

HAUTE LIVING X ROSALINA LYDSTER

Rosalina at a fundraiser in Houston for the film Stopping Traffic to fight aganist human trafficking

Q&A

Tell us about your journey to become a jewelry designer.

It’s always been a passion of mine to design jewelry. I grew up in Vietnam, watching my grandmother and then my own mother create beautiful jewelry. I spent a lot of time with my mom, watching her have fun doing what she loved. She had incredible talent, style, and taste, and I feel very blessed to have inherited those traits from her.

We relocated to San Francisco in the 1970s, where I studied at San Francisco State University and The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising.

Tell us about your haute couture costume jewelry line—Soleil by Rosalina.

I am so proud of this line! I believe it will revolutionize the industry, because I apply the same processes used in my couture for my haute couture to produce exquisite

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reproductions. All pieces are handmade and lab-created with the highest quality “Signity Diamonds” set in silver. Soleil looks, feels, and sparkles just like my best fine jewelry pieces. Each piece is stylish and elegant and makes a statement.

Brigitte classic diamond bracelet.

Soleil by Rosalina

Sylvie diamond necklace.

PHOTO CREDITS: PAGE X (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: ©DREW ALTIZER PHOTOGRAPHY; X PAGE X (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: X; ©CAREY SHEFFIELD; ©CAREY SHEFFIELD; X

Soleil by Rosalina

Soleil by Rosalina

Describe three of your favorite pieces 1. The “Brigitte” classic diamond bracelet can also be worn as a choker simply by adding a velvet attachment that is made to order. Multiple-use pieces are great for travel!

2. The “Sylvie” diamond necklace is always easy to wear—over a black turtleneck or with a classic cocktail dress. This necklace can be ordered in multiple lengths.

3. The “Elodie” flower earrings with pink sapphire teardrop (another multiple-use piece) can be worn with or without the drop, and the drops can be ordered in different colored stones.

What is the main message you want customers to take away from your Soleil brand?

I want my customers to enjoy the look and feel of these pieces, just like their fine jewelry, but without having to worry about losing them and paying a high price for insurance. You can wear Soleil by Rosalina on vacation or even walking the red carpet without fear of losing them.

You also have a passion for producing. What are a couple projects you’re currently working on?

I am the co-executive producer—and I helped with casting—for a new reality TV show, based on the popular movie Crazy Rich Asians, with Lionsgate and Wallin & Chambers Entertainment. It will air on HBO Max later this year.

I am also the current president of Ides Entertainment. We are a distribution and production company based in the U.S. and Singapore and working on new reality shows.

Along with producing, the entertainment business is another passion of mine.

Elodie flower earrings.

Tell us about a couple favorite charities you support and why you are passionate about them.

I have been honored to work with and support many different charities. I support Girls Leadership, anti-human trafficking foundations, the American Breast Cancer Society, and others. It brings me so much joy to support and give back as much as I can.

Many members of these foundations are my clients, and they believe in my work, so they also support me. I am strong in what I believe in and what I stand behind, so it gives me a pleasure to give back.

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James Lim

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PHOTO CREDITS: ©VINCENT GOTTI PHOTOGRAPHY

PROFILE

FRESH TAKE ON LUXURY HOTELIER JAMES LIM REVEALS THE HEART OF HOSPITALITY

BY SAMARA DIAPOULOS

For more than 25 years, James Lim has revitalized San Francisco’s premier hotels—ranging from the classic Palace Hotel to Joie de Vivre’s playful boutique properties—to his current role as general manager of the opulent Omni San Francisco Hotel.

His leadership within travel and hospitality organizations, mentorship of the next generation, and accolades from his peers attest to Lim’s imprint on San Francisco’s hotel community.

56 31

PROFILE

Lobby of Omni San Francisco Hotel

IN 2018, THE CALIFORNIA HOTEL & LODGING ASSOCIATION (CH&LA)

This internal culture of caring is mirrored in how the team interacts with guests.

named Lim “Outstanding General Manager of the Year” for his accomplishments as

A happy and cohesive family acts as one to surprise and delight travelers with trans-

a hotelier. He is the first Asian-American immigrant to receive this honor.

formative experiences. At the same time, individuals are empowered to think “out-

A tireless advocate for promoting San Francisco as a world-class destination, Lim

side the box” in order to elevate a guest’s stay.

chair of the San Francisco Travel Board, past chair of SF Travel’s Global Tourism

MEMORY MAKERS

Council Committee, vice chair of Moscone Center TID, and secretary of California

Early in his career, Lim learned the impact of random gestures of goodwill. As gen-

Hotel & Lodging Association and its educational foundation.

eral manager of the Durant Hotel (now Graduate Berkeley) in Berkeley, California,

As Lim prepares to reopen the Omni San Francisco Hotel this summer after a

he and his colleagues watched a woman walk through the lobby and gaze longingly

pause in business due to COVID-19, he reflects on the guiding spirit of hospitality

at a bouquet of roses. She asked the concierge if the flowers were for her and, alas,

and the definition of luxury travel today.

they were not.

Determined to make her day, they decided to surprise the guest with roses upon

THE SECRET OF HAUTE HOSPITALITY

her return to the hotel. Upon discovering the flowers in her room, she ran down-

“You can teach an associate the fundamentals of hospitality management, but you

stairs in tears of joy. It turned out that her husband had promised to send her a

can’t teach passion and emotional intelligence. These qualities are part of a person’s

dozen roses before he died unexpectedly.

DNA. They fuel the drive to make a guest smile,” explains Lim.

“You never know the circumstances of a guest’s life when he or she walks through

He continues, “A crucial part of my job is identifying candidates who are eager to

your doors. People will never forget how you make them feel. A small act of kindness

touch the hearts of guests with kindness. Together, these managers and associates

can turn a moment into a memory. That’s the hallmark of best-in-class hospitality,”

form a hotel family.”

James concludes when discussing the heart of hospitality.

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PHOTO CREDITS: COURTESY OF OMNI SAN FRANCISCO HOTEL

currently serves as board chair of the Hotel Council of San Francisco. He is also vice-

Bar at Bob’s Steak & Chop House

Presidential Suite

EVERYONE’S A VIP “I judge my success as a hotelier by the way in which my team treats guests as well as one another. Everyone’s a VIP, ranging from a line cook to a honeymoon couple to a visiting world leader.

This appreciation for others extends to the local community,” he explains.

Each year, the Omni San Francisco Hotel salutes the emergency service workers who make San Francisco a safer place. In 2019, the hotel hosted a farewell luncheon for outgoing Fire Chief Joanne Hayes-White. Bob’s Steak & Chop House was alive with firefighters reminiscing about their times together. Their laughter spilled into the lobby and happiness reverberated throughout the landmark hotel.

Lim’s ability to foster talent, inspire innovation, and motivate teams has produced exceptional experiences for his guests. Recently, a young guest mentioned that Metallica was his all-time favorite band. During breakfast the following day at Bob’s Steak & Chop House, the server presented the boy with a guitar pick which the band had given him. Sometimes regifting is a very good thing.

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PROFILE

“Flying By the Seat of Our Pants” Rosé of Grenache

34

FLYING by the SEAT of their PANTS

SONOMA’S NEWEST WINE DESTINATION IS A FAMILY AFFAIR— THE BRAINCHILD OF SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA NATIVES MARK AND ELIZABETH HANSON AND THEIR DAUGHTER SARAH HANSON CITRON.

BY STEPH KEAY

WHILE ON A HARD HAT TOUR OF BRICOLEUR VINEYARDS’ 40-ACRE

where charities and corporations could come together to enjoy the beauty of So-

Windsor estate, we pass through the cavernous hospitality barn, a pavilion with

noma County with exceptional food and wine. Whether you’re interested in playing

sprawling views of the rolling vineyards, rose garden, bocce ball courts, ponds (two!),

a game of bocce ball, taking a cooking or gardening class, practicing yoga, or simply

an estate villa, and a refurbished, historic milk barn—all nestled in the countryside

enjoying world-class wine and food pairings in a beautiful setting, we wanted to cre-

of the beautiful Russian River Valley. Set to launch with curated tasting experiences,

ate that space and those experiences here at Bricoleur.

outdoor yoga classes, community-focused events, and many more surprises, “flying by the seat of their pants” has certainly worked in the Hanson family’s favor. Ahead

What does “Bricoleur” mean?

of its grand opening, proprietor Mark Hanson shares a few tidbits about his family’s

[Our] logo plays off the definition of bricoleur which, in French, means “one who

ambitious venture.

starts building something with no clear plan, adding bits here and there, cobbling together a whole while flying by the seat of their pants.” The letters in the logo are

How did Bricoleur Vineyards come about?

“adding bits here and there, cobbling together a whole.” Our other logo, “Flying by

My wife, Beth, and I always dreamed of owning a vineyard property in Sonoma

the Seat of Our Pants,” also plays off the carefree French definition of what bricoleur

County after our children graduated from college. That vision evolved into pur-

means. We initially decided to do a secondary label when we produced our second

chasing a property where family and friends could come together, like an incubator

Rosé of Grenache. So many people enjoyed the playfulness of this new label, we

for the community, focusing on supporting local charity organizations. We started

expanded the “Flying by the Seat of Our Pants” portfolio with our second wine, the

looking at properties that could be adapted as a multi-functional agricultural venue

Brut Sparkling, with more to come.

Beautiful roses surround Bricoleur’s winery barn

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BRICOLEUR VINEYARDS

Bricoleur founders (and family) Elizabeth Hanson, Mark Hanson, and Sarah Hanson Citron

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PROFILE Tell me more about your varietals.

When we bought our Windsor estate vineyard in 2015, we knew it was already producing premium Russian River Chardonnay and Pinot Noir for several notable labels, such as Paul Hobbs, Lando Family Wines, and Patz & Hall. In 2017, we hired Cary Gott—Joel Gott’s father—as our winemaker to help us craft Bricoleur Vineyards’ wine portfolio. Our first vintages featured three wines from our estate-owned Russian River property, including our Rosé of Pinot Noir, Russian River Chardonnay, and Russian River Pinot Noir. We also decided to make an Alexander Valley Zinfandel in tribute to Elizabeth’s great grandfather, Pietro Carlo Rossi, who made Zinfandel for Italian Swiss Colony in the late 1800s in the wine region of Asti in Piedmont, Italy.

In 2017, we purchased a well-known, premium vineyard named Kick Ranch in the Fountaingrove District AVA in the southeastern hills of Santa Rosa. In 2018, we were excited to expand our portfolio and bottled a Rosé of Grenache, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, and Cabernet Sauvignon all from our new estate-grown Kick Ranch grapes. Additionally, we decided to produce a North Coast Brut. Nearly all our boutique-style wines come from our California certified sustainable estate vineyards, with the exception of the Zinfandel and Sparkling Brut.

Can you tell me more about philanthropy as a part of Bricoleur’s mission?

Giving back is a huge part of what we do. Bricoleur’s mission is to partner with charities to help raise money and assist those organizations in any way we can. We plan to host multiple wine and food auctions and other nonprofit events starting this year with the goal of significant fundraising for these charities.

Additionally, we have been pouring wine and donating various hospitality and food and wine packages for various charities all over the country to auction off in silent and live auctions. We have actively participated in a number of events outside of California over the last year, including the Emeril Lagasse Foundation in New Orleans supporting the St. Michael’s special needs school, the Triangle Wine &

Bricoleur’s outdoor yoga classes overlook the estate vineyard

Food Experience in Raleigh, North Carolina raising money for the Frankie Lemmon School for disabled children, the Nashville Wine Auction raising money to help fight cancer, and the Southwest Florida Food & Wine Fest raising money for children’s charities.

We support charities that deliver significant value to its constituents. Today, we mostly focus on organizations that provide food, shelter, or meaningful children’s programs. We were introduced to the Redwood Empire Food Bank about five years ago, which is an amazing organization with programs aimed at children and seniors. Their Kitchen Collective program provides 60,000 freshly cooked meals to low income seniors and families each year. We try to donate food from our garden to this program whenever we can during the summer and fall growing seasons. Unfortunately, hunger is a significant and growing issue in Sonoma County with the multiple fires and now COVID-19. We are currently running a promotion where 10 percent of Bricoleur Vineyard’s wine proceeds are donated to The Redwood Empire Food Bank to help relieve this issue.

Tell me more about Bricoleur’s non-vineyard offerings.

We want Bricoleur Vineyards to be much more than just a special label—we are creating a hospitality destination where people can enjoy the beauty of Sonoma County.

We believe a complete farm-to-table, food-wine experience is essential to this vision.

We have planted over 210 olive trees and produced three vintages of cold-pressed Bricoleur extra virgin olive oil thus far. Additionally, we have multiple apple, pear,

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Mark, Sarah, Elizabeth, and their lab Lulu take a row on one of Bricoleur’s ponds

Bricoleur’s beautiful estate villa is available for events and rentals

Bricoleur’s Italian-style villa boasts a beautiful infinity pool

fig, persimmon, pomegranate, peaches, and nectarine fruit trees and an organic herb and vegetable garden situated in over 20 raised beds made

Fig and oak trees surround rose-covered trellises on the Bricoleur grounds

from recycled material from our old barn. We are planning to use the fruit, herbs, and vegetables as part of the Bricoleur culinary program to highlight fresh farm-to-table products in our chef ’s daily dishes. We also raise free-range chickens and honeybees, which naturally help with the pest control and pollination of our plants.

What do you love about Sonoma County?

My wife and I both have deep ties to Sonoma County, since I was born in Santa Rosa and my wife spent every summer for almost 15 years of her childhood on their family ranch near Cloverdale. For the next 20 years while we were raising our children, we spent many weekends at PHOTOS COURTESY OF BRICOLEUR VINEYARDS

the family ranch every summer, sharing many wonderful outdoor meals and building memories. Over the last 10 years, my wife and I have really enjoyed exploring the lesser known towns nearby, trying a variety of farm-to-table restaurants and boutique wineries which are laidback with amazing food and wine. We continue to be in awe of the natural beauty of the peaceful rolling hills covered with oak trees or vineyards, the towering redwoods, and the amazing coastline of the magnificent Pacific Ocean.

Bricoleur Vineyards is scheduled to open to the public in May 2020.

For more information and updates, visit www.bricoleurvineyards.com.

Bricoleur Executive Chef Shane McAnelly

Bricoleur’s 2017 Pinot Noir

Tiffany T1 bangles and rings in 18K rose gold

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PHOTO CREDITS: COURTESY OF TIFFIANY & CO

PHOTO CREDITS: COURTESY OF TIFFIANY & CO

PROFILE

BREAKFAST

at Tiffany’s

BY JENNIFER BODEN

Imagine having breakfast at Tiffany & Co. surrounded by astonishing gems, delighting in chocolate croissants, gourmet coffee, and chatting with chief artistic officer, Reed Krakoff. It was like a dream—being invited for a rare and private first look at the timeless Tiffany T1 collection, available in May. Over a bucket list breakfast with a Tiffany blue table setting, Reed and I discussed his vision and stunning new pieces which were created to be lived with, not set aside for an occasion.

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PROFILE

Q&A 1) Everything you design for Tiffany & Co. has an American point of view. Talk more about that.

It implies that function creates the form. Iconic American designs have grown out of utility and tend to be less formal. I want clients to embrace beauty in their everyday lives.

With American design, there’s a level of refined restraint. There aren’t a lot of extraneous details, and because of this, you really need to pay close attention to the craftmanship and the quality of the creation. How things are made is so central to the success of American design. How Tiffany makes and manufactures collections is so elevated—everything we make, no matter the price point, is made with the same commitment to beauty, quality, and craftmanship.

2) What is the creative process for new collections, like Tiffany T1?

The Tiffany T1 Collection embodies Tiffany’s heritage of innovation and creating jewelry that is timeless. It’s clean, uncomplicated, and designed with extraordinary Tiffany diamonds. The beveled edge and angular design of the pieces give them an attitude, but still employ the highest level of craftsmanship.

My first course at breakfast is a Tiffany T1 bangle inside this iconic Tiffany blue box

The completed Tiffany T1 diamond necklace in 18K rosea gold, the design rendering, and tools

Tiffany T1 narrow and wide diamond hinged bangles in 18K rose gold

3) What are the design highlights of the Tiffany T1 bangle and ring?

I was inspired by our historical use of the “T” motif that has been featured in Tiffany jewelry since the 1980s. The goal was to evolve the “T” motif into a new, bold symbol that felt very modern. It’s a reimagining of our iconic motif as one continuous design, an unbroken circle featuring a beveled edge, angular surface, and a multi-faceted finish.

4) Tell us about your high jewelry Tiffany T1 necklace in 18k rose gold available in May. This is the first time high jewelry has been introduced into the Tiffany T collection which, to me, expresses the idea that luxury should be effortless and can be worn even very casually, so it becomes a part of your life. Even things that are very precious can be worn every day with an off-hand attitude and a sense of irreverence.

High jewelry is typically very refined and expensive or very casual. The necklace blends these two ideas and is quite refined, yet bold. It’s a great example of luxury that doesn’t equate to formality.

5) What do you love most about being Chief Artistic Officer of Tiffany & Co? Tiffany is a place that you genuinely feel lucky to be, for so many reasons. I grew up with the brand and have a deep respect and appreciation for what’s been built over these last hundred-plus years. There’s a level of commitment to craftsmanship. There are no shortcuts, whether it’s a sterling silver keychain or a $20 million 100-carat yellow diamond. That’s something that is incredibly unique today.

Reed Krakoff, Chief Artistic Officer of Tiffany & Co.

Impressive Tiffany Blue table is set for a breakfast to remember

PROFILE

GOOD

Mental Health HACKS

BY STEPHANIE BLOCK

SIMPLE WELLNESS PRACTICES FOR COMPLICATED TIMES OAKLAND-BASED HEALTH PSYCHOLOGIST Dr. Rachel Zoffness shares expert tips with Haute Living Magazine. In addition to her private practice, she is Assistant Clinical Professor at the UCSF School of Medicine, where she teaches pain education for medical residents and interns. She serves as a board member of the American Association of Pain Psychology and writes the Psychology Today column “Pain, Explained.” Dr. Zoffness is the author of The Chronic Pain and Illness Workbook for Teens. Her pain, The Pain Management Workbook, comes out this fall. She trained at Brown University, Columbia University, UCSD, the NYU Child Study Center, St. Luke’s-Mt Sinai Hospital, and the Mindful Center.

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PHOTO CREDITS: SHUTTERSTOCK

second book on nonpharmacological approaches to

1.

STAY BUSY Staying busy is a great way to stave off anxiety. It includes body movement, finding a municipally approved way to get in a little sun and fresh air, and especially staying social. It takes work to maintain your network of friends and family during a physical distancing period; but, thankfully, we have a wealth of online tools. For instance, Netflix has a joint streaming option so people can watch movies together.

2.

SELF-SOOTHE The hack for self-soothing is to think about your five senses and comfort one

or more. Curling up in a fluffy blanket is great for your sense of touch. Whipping up your grandmother’s chicken soup recipe invokes your senses of smell and taste.

So does drawing a warm bath infused with essential oils. A bath is also great for your sense of touch, and if you press play on your favorite playlist, you’ll enjoy the added bonus of sound. A bright and fragrant bouquet of flowers is a treat the next time you restock your supplies. Plus there’s port wine. I’ve been finding joy in a fine glass lately. It’s great for all the senses.

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PROFILE

3.

YES, MEDITATE Cool neuroscience and biology studies on meditation confirm you actually change your brain when you practice mindful-

ness. You turn off your fight or flight mechanism, so your body calms. Meditation and mindfulness have also been shown to lower cortisol levels. Reduced stress hormones have been shown to help strengthen your immune system. A calm body is a stronger body.

4.

WATCH THOSE FAVORITE CHILDHOOD MOVIES I humbly submit that no one should watch scary movies about pandemics or spend too much time listening to alarming news reports. When reality already feels like a movie, I prescribe watching movies that relax and distract. Some people find action movwelcome escape in westerns, science fiction, or fantasy. For me, it’s a silly rom-com or my favorite childhood movies like The Goonies.

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PHOTO CREDITS: SHUTTERSTOCK

ies or mysteries calming. Others find

5.

REMEMBER THAT ANXIETY CAN BE CONTAGIOUS Anxiety contagion is real. We have evolved to react to others’ emotions. If others panic, we start to panic. This can be a good thing. If one of us runs from a lion, the rest of us run from the lion and save ourselves. But that’s not helpful right now. Think of panic shopping.

Someone panics and buys all the toilet paper. Then you see empty shelves, so you panic and buy all the toilet paper at the next store. If communities go into deprivation mode, then real shortages ensue, not to mention that everyone is left feeling anxious and panicky.

Catastrophizing—when your brain jumps to the worst possible scenario—is also a sign of anxiety. Whenever we cough these days, we all think we have COVID-19. There are thousands of pathogens and irritants that can make you cough. Try to reason with your catastrophizing brain. This is part of the work I do with my clients. I teach people suffering from chronic pain how to interpret body signs and sensations accurately.

6.

SEEK OUT GOOD NEWS There are plenty of wonderful stories out there. Where I am in Oakland, there are

volunteers organized to shop for people who are unable. This is happening a lot of places. There are people making facemasks. There are people making donations to many important causes. There are tales of heroism from the front lines.

Make a positive story the kind you consume before going to bed.

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CREDIT: ©JASMIN DOLLA PHOTOPHOTO CREDITS: ©VINCENT GOTTI

Mark Rhoades

PROFILE

46

Interview

MARK RHOADES

BY LAURIE JO MILLER FARR

For the past dozen years, Mark Rhoades and San Francisco’s glittering Annual VIP Pride Party have been synonymous. Importantly, San Francisco is equally proud of Mark Rhoades.

How did a Central Valley small town guy who moved to San Francisco for the LGBTQ community embrace his adopted hometown in such an impactful way that City Hall proclaimed an official “Mark Rhoades Day”?

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PROFILE HL: First of all, why San Francisco? What does this city mean to you?

MR: Moving from a small town in Central Valley, I picked San Francisco as a stepping stone to Los Angeles but ended up staying. I love San Francisco so much and feel continually inspired by the gorgeous views. Diana Vreeland once said, “There’s only one very good life and that’s the life you know you want and you make it yourself.” That is what so many of us LGBTQ folks have done by moving to San Francisco and living the life we wish to have.

Mark Rhoades

HL: You’ve got half-a-dozen professions rolled into one brand: PR consultant, event planner, publicist, fundraiser, LGBTQ leader, networker extraordinaire. How do you manage it?

“Mark is truly a remarkable leader, a passionate advocate, and an inspiring role model.” - Jennifer Siebel Newsom

MR: I feel like they all overlap in a good way and I totally enjoy working on a few projects at once. The right side of my brain is managing an event while the left side is pitching a client’s story. The key is my to-do list where actions are religiously ticked off every single day.

HL: Tell us about one or two of the most memorable moments across all that you do in the community?

MR: It was a once-in-a-lifetime, red carpet event — a Castro Theatre screening of “Wilde Salmone” directed by and starring Al Pacino in a film about Oscar Wilde. The opportunity to bring Pacino to San Francisco was thrilling. And because I worked with Wells Fargo and Banana Republic to sponsor the screening, we were able to raise mont Hotel, which pulled out all the stops for me as well, hosting a gorgeous after-party in The Penthouse.

Everything came together beautifully when my research indicated that Oscar Wilde had visited San Francisco in March of 1882, so we scheduled the screening to mark Wilde’s birthday on March 21, also the 150th anniversary of that visit.

We sold out at 1,200 capacity a week early and attracted all three major news networks and an eclectic A-list crowd that the Castro Theatre doesn’t usually see: Joan Chen, Peter Coyote and Stephanie Coyote, Phil Bronstein, Kamala Harris, Jeff Adachi, Karen Caldwell, Tre Cool from Green Day, Dita Von Teese, Jean Paul Gaultier. No one can believe how fortunate I was to get Jean Paul to attend with Dita in tow (persistence pays!)...but that’s another story.

By the way, this opportunity came to me because of another key event in my life, the Pride Party I’ve hosted for 12 years. It brings together 400 LGBTQ leaders and personalities from all walks of life. This party is a thank you to all the women and men that give their money and their time to make our home and community a better place.

Jean Paul Gautier & Dita Von Tesse at Mark Rhoades screening with Al Pacino

PHOTO CREDIT: PAGE 84 (TOP LEFT) ©JASMIN DOLLA, (BOTTOM LEFT) ©DREW ALTIZER PHOTOGRAPHY PAGE 85 ©DREW ALTIZER PHOTOGRAPHY

$65,000 for the GLBT Historical Society. I’m so grateful to The Fair-

HL: What does the Castro Theatre mean to

HL: In addition to Al Pacino at the Castro,

you? And what is it like to be backstage be-

what were the highlights of your profes-

fore the curtain rises?

sional career?

MR: One of my great loves is the Castro

MR: I cannot tell a lie: Having my name on

Theatre. Every time I stage an event there,

the Castro Theatre marquee when I brought

that is when I feel like I can breathe. Mean-

Kathy Griffin there to show her documentary

ing in that moment I am living my dream.

was amazing. Also, receiving a proclama-

The most wonderful feeling is the first walk-

tion in 2017 when Mayor Ed Lee recognized

through when ideation and imagination take

Mark Rhoades Day in San Francisco. More

flight. Before an event, the buzz of being

highlights: I have worked with Billie Jean

backstage is the best! Giving a short speech

King, Governor Newsom, Jennifer Siebel

on stage is so much fun! If nerves kick in, they

Newsom, Fashion Designer Naeen Khan,

quickly disappear in front of all my friends.

Supermodel Pat Cleveland, Comedian San-

What an honor to do that. I’m so grateful.

dra Bernhard, Fashion Designer Stephen

Host Mark Rhoades, Actor Al Pacino & Jessica Engholm

Burrows, Ross Mathews, Kevan Hall, Kathy HL: How do you define success?

Griffin and loved every minute.

MR: That is a very good question! It’s highly

HL: If you were to host a dinner party with

individual, of course. But for me, success is

the perfect guest list, who would get a seat at

having a lot of good friends, being a good

your table? And why?

friend to others, being part of a community.

Success is the joy I have for helping clients:

MR: I would need to think about this to fill

staging events, getting that big coverage, cre-

all the seats. But, off the top of my head, I can

ating excitement and making that deserving

tell you it would be dinner for two. Just Op-

something really sing. I know and respect

rah and myself. That’s it.

when it’s time to get out there or when it’s time to stay in the background and shine the

Mark Rhoades | 415 420 2040

light on someone else.

www.markrhoadespr.com Mark Rhoades, Josh Morgan, John Hunt, Philip Hodges

Mark Rhoades & Teresa Rodriguez

Mark Rhoades Marquee

Mark Rhoades & Kathy Griffin

EVENTPREVIEWS

Festival

Sebastiani Theatre

NAPA VALLEY POSTPONED, BUT NOT SILENCED

WHEN FESTIVAL NAPA VALLEY HAD TO POSTPONE ITS 15TH

Conservatory of Music, Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, San Francisco Opera

anniversary season to 2021, its artists refused to be silenced. Led by two students

Orchestra, Toronto Symphony, the Festival’s own Blackburn Music Academy,

from the Festival’s Blackburn Music Academy—conductor Zach Salsburg-Frank

and many more.

and violinist Sienna Peck—126 past and present Festival musicians joined forces

Each musician recorded their part on a smartphone while following the vir-

to create an extraordinary virtual performance of the famous “Va, pensiero” cho-

tual conductor. The group was synchronized into one glorious, collective perfor-

rus from Giuseppe Verdi’s opera Nabucco.

mance and dedicated to the essential workers whose heroic efforts safeguard the

“‘Va, pensiero’ was a perfect choice of music, a moving hymn that has served as a rallying song of hope and resilience for people around the world,” said Charles Letourneau, the Festival’s Vice President and Director of Artistic Planning.

Festival President and CEO Richard Walker added, “Although we will not have a summer season this year, our pioneering spirit is alive and well, and we are creating innovative ways to continue to bring music to our audiences.”

health and safety of our communities. View the performance on Festival Napa Valley’s YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/jHV9wLvNYxA. “The restorative power of music is serving as a catalyst in the rebirth of the Festival’s hopes, dreams, and aspirations,” said Walker. “The team is already at work planning the 2021 season.”

Adds Timothy Blackburn, Chairman of the Board of Festival Napa Valley:

The Festival Napa Valley Remote Ensemble includes instrumentalists and

“Our 2021 season will be one of joy, inspiration, and enthusiasm for years to

singers from 26 states, eight countries, and five continents, representing over

come. We are all in this together and are looking forward to celebrating next

24 orchestras, ensembles, opera companies, and music conservatories such as

summer, with our spirits higher and our community stronger than ever.”

the Young People’s Chorus of New York City, Juilliard School, San Francisco

Festival Napa Valley’s 15th anniversary season will take place July 16-25, 2021.

Patron dinner at Castello di Amorosa

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Opera Under the Stars at Meadowood

Opening Night 2019 at Meadowood

Havana Chamber Orchestra at Charles Krug Winery

Concert for Kids at Lincoln Theater

Lucas Meacham and Francesco Demuro perform at Opera Under the Stars

Festival Napa Valley Remote Ensemble

Blackburn Music Academy

Sophia Bacelar at Castello di Amorosa

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PHOTO CREDIT: COURTESY OF ST. CLOUD NINE

BY CAMILLE HAYES

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HauteART

DREW ALTIZER Beyond the Lens DREW ALTIZER HAS MADE HIS REPUTATION SHOOTING SAN Francisco’s biggest names and most glamorous events. Everyone from Chuck Close to Barack Obama has been on the other side of his lens, and SF’s most important arts and nonprofit organizations count on his team to get their photos-—and their message—-to a nationwide audience.

But there’s another facet of Drew’s work that he’s now sharing with us: his fine art photography and breathtaking Northern California landscapes. Using medium-format cameras (they have bigger sensors, allowing for larger prints) and long exposures, he captures not just the beauty of his adopted home state, but the emotions the landscapes evoke.

“I remember the first time I saw Marin coastline. I was on a cliff. I looked down and saw the sea reaching up to touch jagged rocks. I felt like I was part of something bigger than myself.”

On his recently launched Drew Altizer Fine Art website, you’ll see examples of long-exposure landscapes and cityscapes, which look more like paintings than photographs. Altizer uses long exposures to smooth out the details of specific compositions and highlight the symmetry of the world around us.

“In long exposure, you see the bigger patterns in a chaotic image.

We’re always taking in so many details, it can be confusing. Adding time to photos reveals the larger picture. It’s like life, that way. A little time and distance help you see what’s happening under the surface.”

You can see Altizer’s fine art photographs at www.drewaltizerfineart.com

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HauteART

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HauteART

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HauteART

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Best known for capturing the glamour of San Francisco’s society through his omnipresent lens, Drew Altizer is an iconic fixture in recording San Francisco’s rich social history. For the past 15 years, local and national magazines have relied on his acute sense of style for filling their pages with images of what’s chic in Northern California. He’s known for his prominent work in the philanthropic and cultural scenes throughout the Bay Area. In this issue, Altizer gives us an early look at his new collection of fine art photographs that are being launched for sale.

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BY TERESA RODRIGUEZ

HauteBEAUTY

MARGARET MITCHELL

Beauty - Endurance - Strength - Compassion WITH A GENTLE SMILE AND GENEROUS EYES, MARGARET MITCHELL CAN easily be spotted in a crowd—but she doesn’t want to be. She is the beautiful sentinel in the background, and for the past 20 years, her Epi Center MedSpa has been a beacon for women seeking to improve the way they look and feel about themselves.

Beauty can be a tricky business, because many of her clients require complete confidentiality, some paying cash for their services, so their husbands won’t find out. There is something raw and vulnerable about getting work done on your face, and Margaret understands and respects that. For example, at a recent black tie event, a gentleman Margaret knows through charity work approached her and kindly introduced his wife. Unbeknownst to this man, his wife had been a patient of the Epi Center MedSpa for the past several years. Margaret extended her hand, lightly touched the woman’s shoulder, and said, “It’s a pleasure to meet you.” This interaction was conducted with class and impeccable privacy.

“It is my job to keep my clients’ private lives private. So, at events, I stand back operandi for the past 20 years in San Francisco. And, it is this flawless discretion that has built her flawless reputation.

“Medspa” (with or without the hyphen) is now a common term in our beauty vernacular. Ironically, it was Margaret and her business partner, world renowned Dermatologist Patrick Bitter, Sr., MD who coined the term “medspa.” Margaret’s

“Beauty is both skin and deep. Stay balanced and work on both equally.”

long and winding journey that leads to her building the Epi Center MedSpa weaves a fascinating tale of endurance and focus.

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PHOTO CREDITS: © SPENCER BROWN

and I won’t go up to people I know unless I’m invited.” This has been her modus

Margaret Mitchell and Freddy Clarke on stage as narrators for the Ye Feng dance studios production, Montgomnery Theater, May 26, 2018.

Margaret grew up in Tuscon, Arizona. At six months old, she was diagnosed where she had the opportunity to teach ballroom dancing to a gentleman who with hemolytic anemia and spent the next 18 months of her life in the hospital liv-

owned a laboratory and needed an assistant. “He took a chance on me. I didn’t

ing in a literal bubble. For the rest of her childhood, Margaret returned to the hospi-

have any experience, but I was motivated to succeed.”

tal on a regular basis to monitor her white and red blood counts. This exposure to

The prospect of finally working in the medical industry excited her. The gen-

PHOTO CREDITS: © DREW ALTIZER PHOTOGRAPHY

being in a hospital inspired Margaret to pursue a career as a doctor—an OB/GYN tleman hired her and Margaret thrived. Success led her into starting a consultactually. “Babies, babies, babies! I wanted to deliver babies!”

She was accepted into university, but Margaret’s mother experienced an unfor-

ing business helping medical facilities set up their management systems. It was through this business that she met Dr. Bitter, the doctor who would be her partner

tunate medical accident, and her life went from normal to critical in a matter of at Epi Center MedSpa. He hired Margaret to set up his office management sysdays. Margaret could not keep up with the demands of school and caring for her mother, so she had to abandon her dream of becoming a doctor as she tried to keep her mother alive.

tems.

An amazing visionary, Dr. Bitter was working in Silicon Valley with a focus on laser and cosmetic dermatology. He invented the famed “photofacial.” After the ex-

Margaret dealt with the trauma of her mother’s demise and death through cellent job Margaret did organizing his medical practice, he approached her about ballroom dancing. “I just let all my emotion out on the dance floor.” A series of opening a location in San Francisco that offered both medical services and spa serendipitous events through ballroom dancing brought Margaret to the Bay Area

services—a medical spa—and that was when the term “medspa” was born.

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HauteBEAUTY

The fortitude that Margaret exemplifies was fostered by her incredible will to succeed regardless of what unfortunate circumstances life presented.

Along with caring for her mother for 16 months until her death and dropping out of university, Margaret also raised her sister’s child for a year. Her sister had severe addiction issues and took her own life one night when Margaret was on the phone with her. While Margaret was taking care of her mother and teaching ballroom dancing, she wanted to take course at a local business school, but she didn’t have any money. Her aunt (now known as Mama Mia) gave her $200 to take business classes, and it was those classes that taught Margaret about management.

“I don’t know how I did it, but I did,” Margaret said.

It is about paying attention to your life when it’s happening to you and realizing all the opportunities that are given to you in what can seem like awful times. When you have to survive and you have no means, you become very good to paying attention to what’s going on.

“Rule number one in successful leadership: know when to lead and when to follow.”

Margaret Mitchell and Tom Newby, Spectrum Ballroom. Campbell. CA, 1992

Sharpening intense focus and concentration skills.

Archery contest, Dromoland Castle, Ireland, 2018

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“One of the most rewarding moments in my life was time spent at a Syrian refugee camp.” Ritsona, Greece 2016

“My top priority is helping patients develop the best version of themselves through our Centered on You program.”

Margaret has a keen sense of growth and evolution. “Stuck is stuck.

And I don’t ever want to be stuck.”

Because of her life’s experiences, Margaret always tries to improve and build on what works. Along with being a great businesswoman, Margaret is empathetic and caring. She listens to her patients and takes the time to truly understand what they want and need from the services that Epi Center has to offer.

“So many women want to be confident with the way they look. We can help them with that. Being confident is one of the most important attitudes people can feel about themselves. It is those moments when our patients look at themselves in the mirror with glee after their procedures that brings me such joy.”

Because so many people assisted Margaret along the way, she helps others as often as she can. “I would not be where I am if it weren’t for the caring people who believed in me. I knew I could do great things and my aunt trusted me—she gave me the break I needed. The owner PHOTO © DREW ALTIZER PHOTOGRAPHY, STOCKCREDITS: PHOTOS(LEFT) PROVIDED

BY SHUTTERSTOCK (RIGHT) © SPENCER BROWN

STOCK PHOTOS PROVIDED BY SHUTTERSTOCK

Margaret Mitchell wearing a custom design by long-time friend, fashion designer Christopher Collins at the SF Ballet, City Hall, 2020

of the lab gave me a chance when I knew nothing. And because of those victories, I want to help others who are in need.” Always leading and learning, Margaret recently completed a 1-year executive leadership course through Stanford’s graduate school of business.

As for the next 20 years? Margaret plans to continue to help thousands more men and women to become the best versions of themselves. Now the Epi Center MedSpa offers everything from Botox®, fillers, photofacial, microneedling, CoolSculpting®, and tattoo and hair removal, along with medically supervised weight loss and leg vein treatments—everything one needs to look better, feel more confident, and live the best life possible!

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BY SAMARA DIAPOULOS

HauteWELLNESS

SOPHIE SAYS ZEN IS IN Serenity by Design

After weeks of being sequestered in their residences—no matter how lovely they might be— many people crave a sanctuary for the soul.

Recently, society’s primary contact with the outside world comes from negative news reports because “when it bleeds, it leads” in media ratings. Haute Living hopes to reverse this trend by providing tips on how to gently update your home into an oasis of calm and comfort.

We’ve enlisted Sophie Azouaou to guide us on this transformational journey. Lauded by Forbes magazine as an “interior design guru,” Azouaou has been on the front line of helping others and at the forefront of stylish interior design for more than 20 years.

As founder and president of SophiSticate Interiors, she combines her passion for philanthropy with her design expertise to make a difference one pro bono project at a time.

“When you put your time and energy into developing something positive for others and give them the foundation for a brighter future, that is philanthropy,” says Azouaou.

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PHOTO CREDITS: (TOP LEFT) ©VINCENT GOTTI PHOTOGRAPHY

Sophie Azouaou

Living room with glass table

Azouaou carefully selects the nonprofit organizations with which she partners. She explains, “We each have unique attributes, and it’s important to devote my time to organizations where I can achieve the biggest impact for a healthy community.”

PHOTO CREDIT: ©MOANALANI JEFFREY

At the Raphael House, she redesigned several public spaces to ensure the long-term comfort of the children in its care.

THE GOLDEN TRINITY OF GIVING Sophie’s holistic approach to bettering the community includes

When hired to design some penthouses at Soma Grand, a luxury condominium property,

talent, time, and fundraising. This golden trinity of charity,

Azouaou made sure the grand opening benefited San Francisco Lighthouse Church which pro-

strengthened by her ability to unite others for the greater good,

vides warm food and clothing to the less fortunate.

has enabled her to uplift the homeless, the hungry, the ill, and the

The late mayor of San Francisco Edwin Lee recognized Azouaou’s contributions to the city

abused by giving them a place to call home.

by proclaiming August 20, 2018 to be “Sophie’s Day in San Francisco.” The Richmond/Ermet Aids Foundation (REAF) honored Azouaou with the “REAF Community Service Award” and, in 2018, she received the “Best of Houzz Award for Excellent Services.”

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HauteWELLNESS

SOPHIE’S CHOICES FOR DESIGNING YOUR PRIVATE SANCTUARY COLOR THERAPY Whether you paint an entire room or just an accent wall, color injects instant gratification. The renowned interior designer curates custom colors, including the sought-after hue of “Sophie’s Green,” for her clients.

“Green represents Mother Earth and her gifts of grass, fauna, and the seafoam formed by a wave cresting on the beach. It’s calming and centers us. It invites meditation and serenity. When we lift our heads to look at a cloudless sky, we see blue, and it’s naturally uplifting,” she explains.

Although many people associate yellow with a cheerful environment, Sophie counters that the color can be too aggressive to support a peaceful state of mind.

ART IS THE JEWELRY OF A HOME Just as a crown connotes a queen, art symbolizes a homeowner’s personality. Collectors buy art because it resonates with them. It expresses what is special and unique about them. A perfect pairing can stimulate healing memories of the past, creativity in the present, and hopes for the future.

This wordless communication between the master and the artform unites all elements of a domain into a singular dynamic spirit. It’s the tie that binds. As the focal point for the eye, art—with its colors, textures and movement—is the defining factor on the canvas of interior design.

MINIMAL MEANS MORE SPACE FOR THE MIND TO ROAM Clutter intrudes upon our lives, our minds, and the beauty of design. Excessive furniture or accent pieces make venues appear smaller. Crowded spaces can limit our ability to think beyond what stands directly in front of us.

LET’S REFLECT Mirrors create the illusion of space. They reflect the surrounding environment and amplify the energy of people interacting.

Windows unite our interiors with the outdoor environment. Harmonious design encourages a harmonious life. A glass table brings a sense of clarity through its transparency.

Crystal is king. It captures light and forms a rainbow of colors. From a shimmering chandelier to a Lalique vase with a single orchid to SaintLouis stemware, crystal brings joy and lightness and levity. Let’s toast life in all its beautiful glory.

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A soothing palette of “Sophie’s green” with white accents sets the scene for serenity in a master bedroom she designed for the penthouses at Soma Grand. The monochromatic colors conceal an invisible door that elicits childlike joy upon discovery.

PHOTO CREDIT: © MOANALANI JEFFREY

“Green represents Mother Earth and her gifts of grass, fauna, and the seafoam formed by a wave cresting on the beach. It’s calming and centers us.

It invites meditation and serenity. When we lift our heads to look at a cloudless sky, we see blue, and it’s naturally uplifting,”

Sophie Azouaou Sophie@sophisticateinteriors.com www.sophisticateinteriors.com

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BY MARIA CASTELLUCCI

HauteWELLNESS

THE ENCHANTED WORLD OF ESSENTIAL OILS A few drops a day to a healthier you JUST IMAGINE: A PLANT-BASED OIL THE ESSENCE OF WHICH CAN BRIGHTEN YOUR

So, you may be wondering how on earth would you use these magical dewdrops?

mood, sterilize wounds, clear congestion, treat infection, erase wrinkles and clean your home!

There are three primary ways to bring essential oils into your home and lifestyle. The first

The unimaginable benefits of essential oils grant you the power to take health into your own

is through inhalation. Your olfactory sense—your most primal sense—afford the fastest way to

hands.

receive the benefits of essential oils. Inhalation allows your brain and lungs to experience this

Wafting aromas, distinctive scents, healing powers, and a heightened sense of awareness supply the quintessence of nature’s elixir into a remedial and invigorating place. The complex-

potent godsend through simply smelling the oils, rubbing a drop in between your hands and taking in a deep breath, or through a diffuser.

ity of each oil and its applications ranges from antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and

My favorite morning ritual is diffusing a fun combination of bright, energy boosting oils to

antidepressant to digestive. How can the simplistic essence of a plant produce such mystical

bring about a lucid and sunny aura throughout the home. Let your children partake in finding a

and magical results?

delicious combination to swirl the senses!

Essential oils date back to ancient medicine, bridging the gap between the former and the

Essential oils administered through inhalation combat include respiratory infections,

modern age. These oils have circulated our world since 2500 BCE when religious, medicinal,

headaches, allergies, depression, nausea, and fatigue just to name a few ailments.

and beautification processes were first attempted in Egypt. Since then, many cultures includ-

It’s a surefire way to aid on the go, too! Pack a roller ball in your purse or car

ing the Chinese, Greeks, and Romans have adopted the use of essential oils for aromatherapy,

for your instant fragrant bouquet-on-the-go.

The second way to utilize essential oils involves topical application. Ap-

cold-pressing, or solvent extraction, the aromatic essences from trees, grasses, fruits, leaves,

plying oils directly onto the skin soothes a variety of common ailments,

and flowers are collected to deliver a plethora of robust and mighty potions for our practical

including burns, scrapes, eczema, acne, and much more. Topical application

and titillating pleasure.

also works for chest rubs, relieving cramps and any kind of muscle related aches.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF HEARTRISE

skincare, and beauty as well as care of the home. Whether acquired through steam distillation,

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This type of practice delivers oils through the skin and is typically the slowest form of pen-

should have written on it the common name

etration into the bloodstream. Many essential oils are skin irritants, so I highly recommend a

of the oil as well as its Latin name, the

dilution aid or carrier oil, such as fractionated coconut oil, to combine with the oils drops when

ingredients, whether it’s pure oil or

applied topically, especially pertaining when administering to children.

diluted with a carrier oil, and di-

Lastly, oral use of essential oils can be extremely effective for illness or infirmity related to sleeplessness, digestive discomfort, flu-like symptoms, and urinary tract infections. It is highly

rections.

Lastly, your oil should

recommended to check with a medical professional to ensure safe and proper usage of these

come in an amber bottle

potent oils prior to ingesting them. A favorite of mine is a preventative, homemade antiviral cap-

which does not to allow

sule consisting of melaleuca (tea tree oil), lemon, frankincense, On Guard, and oregano oils. This

light to penetrate the pack-

powerful blend has coined itself “the Flu Bomb,” and that it truly is! A couple drops of each in a

aging. Oxygen, heat, and

vegetable capsule and there you have it, an antibacterial, antiviral capsule to coat your body, es-

sunlight degrade the qual-

pecially during these unbalanced and uncertain times. Each of these powerful ingredients sup-

ity and efficacy of the oil.

plies a vigorous immunity boost and protective astringent against bacteria in our atmosphere.

While highly recommended, a consultation with a healthcare provider would be most wise.

Now it’s time to have some fun! Ponder an ongo-

Are you ready to get started on your aromatherapy journey to wellness?

ing discomfort or problem.

While it may appear intimidating or daunting initially, I can assure you that, with a little

Whether it be your sleep qual-

practice, you will be smelling, rubbing, and swallowing your way towards improved health in

ity, your morning mood, or your

no time! Your pilgrimage from status quo to radiant health is at your fingertips; there are just a

desire to prevent flu-like illness, es-

few hints to remember: quality, labels, and packaging.

sential oils can be a wonderful aid in

First, the quality of your essential oil is first and foremost of importance. The quality of the

altering how your body responds to various

oils and plays an integral part in the “do it yourself” health movement. Pure, organic, highest

modes of bodily complaints or emotional

quality oils are the only oils to work with in all these three measures. The caliber and grade of

desires for enhanced wellness. Some of the most common

your oils speaks volumes to your ability to safely and effectively use essential oils in the manner

oils, including peppermint, lavender, frankincense, melaleuca (or tea tree

in which they were intended.

oil), lemon, and rosemary, just to name a few, are much more than pretty scents. They are powerful healing tools to support your overall mental and physical health.

PHOTO CREDIT: SHUTTERSTOCK

Second, consider the labels when purchasing the proper oils for medicinal use. The label

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HauteWELLNESS Have fun experimenting. Blend a few oils together to make combina-

cense. The majestic dew of melaleuca heals all eczema, rashes, bumps, and

tions that please your senses and aid in protecting against environmental

bruises into itch-free, supple skin. Dab a drop or two directly onto the area

pollutants, enhance your skincare regimen, and detoxify your cells. For

or dilute with a carrier oil of your choice. Equally, frankincense has skin

instance, every morning is an opportunity to start the day with a great

healing properties.

citrus cleanse. Two drops of lemon essential oil in your filtered water is

A drop of frankincense in your daily moisturizer is a fantastic balancing

a beautiful beginning to a healthier you. Citrus is superb for making your

agent and also great for wrinkle reduction. The balancing trait of frankin-

own household cleaning products and cleansing your body. There are a

cense is its delightfully grounding properties, lovely to diffuse during quiet

variety of citrus oils in the citrus family, including bergamot, clementine,

meditation sessions or when experiencing a whirlwind of emotion.

lemongrass, and wild orange.

I particularly like rosemary. It’s a delicious addition to your bath. It aids

A fantastic allergy blend for springtime sneezes is a combination of pep-

in offering increased mental clarity and focus, with additional benefits of

permint, lemon, and lavender. Pop a few drops of each in a roller ball and fill

increased immune support and relief of muscle pain, while also being an

the remaining with fractionated coconut oil and there you have it! Rub on

antiseptic, antiviral oil. Use a couple drops in your Friday night Rosemary

your temples from ear to ear, keeping away from your eyes. It’s also great

chicken dish or even dab a couple drops of rosemary essential oil in your

on your neck and wrists. Skin, hair and nails love melaleuca and frankin-

shampoo of choice for a silky, shiny coiffeur.

There has never been a more pressing time to enjoy the bountiful world of essential oils. With all of us sheltering in our homes, it is an opportune time to explore and venture into a new world of natural care.

Then we have lavender, the most commonly used essential oil that

our well-oiled machines. Our bodies have the incredible capacity to heal

many associate with calming, soothing, sleep-related benefits. A fun fact

themselves, and when presented with nature’s medicine, sometimes, the

about lavender is its ability to relieve itchy sensations from bug bites on

simpler the cure delivers the more profound result.

contact. It is also a wonderful aid to skin related burns, eczema, wound

Undoubtedly, modern medicine has aided those suffering from life-

care, headaches, and nausea. It’s the unicorn of oils, the mysteriously

threatening illnesses over which mandate modern intervention must

spellbinding oil that all should possess in their nightstands. Each of these

triumph. Perhaps due to where we are in our evolution today, we seek a

above-mentioned oils could be diffused, applied topically, and, with cau-

purity, a cleansing of ourselves amidst these highly volatile and viral times.

tion, ingested internally.

Essential oils empower us with pure, natural options that enable us to effect

There has never been a more pressing time to enjoy the bountiful world of essential oils. With all of us sheltering in our homes, it is an opportune time to explore and venture into a new world of natural care.

Most of us were born free from toxicity, free from stress and anxiety. It is modern-day life and our hectic lifestyles that have posed great threats to

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a shift in our emotions, our physical aliments, and the manner in which we support our families’ health and clean our homes.

I invite you to delve into the world of essential oils, where the expansiveness of mind, body, and spirit intertwine and allow nature to speak loudly.

Are you listening?

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COVER STORY

Sophia Loren at 2019 European Culture Prize at Vienna Opera House

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Sophia Loren Legendary, Ageless Beauty

Shares Secrets of Forever Radiant and Fabulous at 85

BY MARIA CASTELLUCCI • PHOTOS COURTESY OF CARLO PONTI JR. AND FESTIVAL NAPA VALLEY

The stardom of legendary screen and culture icon Sophia Loren rose out of the slums of post-war Naples and soared to prodigious heights. Born in Rome, Italy on September 20, 1934 as Sofia Scicolone, times for Sophia were about to become extremely challenging. From the shanties of Pozzuoli during the Second World War, Sophia’s childhood left all the world’s hope, opportunity, and glory to her imagination. We recount a tale of a girl, born out of wedlock in extreme poverty, during a time when the world was in turmoil, a time when, for Sophia, only a dream or a miracle could offer a bit of respite.

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“The two big advantages I had at birth were to have been born wise and to have been born in poverty” says Sophia. To Sophia’s advantage, she was born with an unmistakable beauty that the whole world recognized at a very young age. Her break came at the age of 14 when she entered a beauty contest and victoriously placed as one of the finalists. From there, her outward beauty showed brightly, yet her inside beauty, which spoke volumes, had yet to be discovered. Film producer, Carlo Ponti, 22 years her senior, was struck by Sophia’s beauty, and the two eventually wed in 1966. In her early film years, Sophia was credited as Sophia Lazzaro, her beauty perceived as one that could raise Lazarus from the dead.

Sophia in 2016 Christmas

“The two big advantages I had at birth were to have been born wise and to have been born in poverty”

Armed with an unique combination of striking beauty, effortless grace, glamour, and wit, Sophia’s illustrious acting career spanned six decades in more than 100 films, including her early films: The Pride and the Passion, Houseboat, It Started in Naples, Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow, Marriage Italian Style (for which she was nominated for a second Oscar), Sunflower, The Voyage, and A Special Day. Her performance as Cesira in the movie Two Women (1961), directed by Vittorio Sophia with son Carlo at Margrit Mondavi birthday celebration at 2016 Festival Napa Valley Sophia with Gordon Getty

De Sica, earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress, making her the first actor to win an Oscar for a foreign-language performance. She also holds the record for having earned six David di Donatello Awards for Best Actress, a Grammy award, and five Golden Globe awards. Sophia eventually changed her name and public image to Sophia Loren, and it stuck. Having been coined as “one of world cinema’s greatest treasures,” Loren received an Honorary Academy Award in 1991 for her body of work.

Having lived a full, rich life with countless successes and challenges along the way, she feels that any opportunity you are presented with could, in fact, propel you to new beginnings. “I’ve never tried to block out the memories of the past, even though some are painful. I don’t understand people who hide from their past. Everything you live through helps to make you the person you are now.”

As we fast-forward to today, our world now faces a global pandemic, something with which we have neither much experience nor enough knowledge to impart.

Italy, in particular, has faces grave danger and strife in dealing with this crisis. It has brought a greater sense of camaraderie and unity among Italian civilians who band together and fight this radical disease. Our beloved Sophia resides in Geneva, Switzerland and is thankfully braving this challenging time and staying well.

“Italy has and will always be in my heart and being. It is an essential and intrinsic part of who I am as a woman, person, and artist. Italian culture and ethos have shaped my artistic identity since the beginning of my career, and I am proud to be considered by many as an ambassador and representative of my country’s cultural heritage and achievements,” Loren says.

The novel coronavirus has given us all a time for reflections on family,

In this exclusive interview, Sophia Loren shares with Haute Living the

peace, health, and internal and external world and familial matters. It has

mystical, covert tips and formula of her daily routine regarded by yours

called on all of us during this challenge to contemplate how we can better

truly. “There is a fountain of youth: It is your mind, your talents, the crea-

serve our families and communities. On the topic of health—and particu-

tivity you bring to your life and the lives of the people you love. When you

larly preventative health—Haute Living brings forth the ageless beauty,

learn to tap this source, you will have truly defeated age,” Sophia recounts.

none other than Sophia Loren, to speak on behalf of her healthy habits,

How does one define beauty? The profundity from Loren’s life experi-

secrets, and practices.

ences—not only as an internationally acclaimed actress, but also from her

Today, the world dotes on the Italian icon for her intelligence, for her

years raising her two accomplished sons, Carlo and Edoardo—has impart-

talents, and for managing to remain an inspiration for women around the

ed to her wisdom, poise, and acuity in her beliefs on the sound mental and

world for generations.

physical importance of one’s well-being.

Sophia and Margrit Mondavi with Andrea Ponti, Carlo Ponti, Jan Shrem, Maria Manetti Shrem, José Luis Nazar

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Sophia at Cannes Film Festival

Sophia in movie Breath of Scandals

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Sophia in Rome

Sophia in movie El Cid

Sophia with Cary Grant in movie Houseboat

Sophia in movie The Pride and The Passion

Sophia in the film Arabesque

Sophia in Tivoli Fountain in Rome

Sophia in movie Millionairess in 1960

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Sophia won an Academy Award for Best Actress in her 1961 film Two Women and was given an honorary Oscar in 1991

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Through the lens of Loren, “I have always believed that beauty first and foremost comes from internal attributes more than external ones. The inner depth and richness of a person contributes immensely to their physical appearance; I think most important is what one harbors inside rather than outside.” As a leading lady and heroic global icon in the realm of femininity and grace, Loren has led with extreme passion and benediction. When asked to share if there is one word that describes femininity to Loren, she simply answered: “Class.”

When asked what comes to mind when the words “Sophia Loren” are muttered, one would naturally consider descriptive words such as beautiful, radiant, dazzling, exquisite, brilliant, charming, alluring … the list goes on. Yet what was most striking from our interview was Loren’s profound sense of sophistication, depth, and refinement. Her acuity and keenness stood out strong, as if to say, “Thank you, Sophia.” The inner strength of a woman can take us places many haven’t gone before. We are inspired. We are energized to make positive change in our lives.

Loren has given women that voice. So, is there a secret? A healthy secret that can stand the test of time, to radiate through the years?

The one question we deeply all wanted to know was: At 85, how do you stay so lustrous? “I think exercise and balanced nutrition tremendously help to keep a healthy and attractive physical appearance. The former help me feel good and in turn make me radiate the well-being that I feel inside. In addition, I have had the privilege of leading a life rich with professional and personal satisfactions, and I feel my gratitude for these successes is mirrored in how others perceive me as well.”

Undoubtedly, Sophia continues to grace our presence with the wisdom that balance is beautiful and great physical health paired with great emotional health endows one with high spirit and a healthy, grateful attitude.

Sophia with sons Carlo and Edoardo

Rick Walker, Whoopi Goldberg, Carlo Ponti, Sophiaa and Robert Redford at Sophia’s 80th birthday gala at Festival Napa Valley 2014

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Loren continues to shed some light on her routines: How would you describe your view on the importance of having a wellness plan in your life? “I have always been a person who prioritized exercise and a disciplined lifestyle in terms of physical and mental activity. To this day, I still wake up at 6:00 a.m. every day and go through a 45-minute calisthenics routine to start the day on the right foot and with a good frame of mind. Exercise and physical activity not only help me stay in shape for the endeavors of personal and professional life, they also give my daily life structure and focus.” Now, couldn’t we all learn from Sophia? Her continued motivation at 85 can certainly pique us all!

When thinking of Sophia and how she has used her stardom to influence the lives of modern teens and adults, I was compelled to ask her: What beauty advice would you give a young woman growing up in these modern times?

“Strive to show your true colors. If you believe in yourself you will shine with the glow of confidence and strength and share these attributes with others, inspiring them with your radiance.” Today’s youth will need much guidance as they navigate the waters of social media, societal pressures, school situations, and other alternate stresses that can wreak havoc on one’s health, mentally and physically. Loren gives a bout of confidence when recounting her advice to today’s youth. As proved by science, mental well-being is just as important if not more so than our physical body.

Sailing through these rough waters as COVID-19 brings heightened challenges into our homes, the world looks to our great heroes and heroines for their insight to bring about greater peace among us.

In admiration for Sophia’s wise words, she speaks on one of her favorite films: “Choosing a favorite film of mine is very challenging, as I love them all for different reasons: they tapped into my artistry in countless varied ways. I truly cherished working on every one of my movies. I must, however, say that the films that I did with director Vittorio De Sica, which include the film Two Women for which I won an Academy Award in 1966, stand out as memorable experiences for me, as Vittorio was not only a great friend but probably the most significant artistic mentor that I ever had.”

Sophia Loren at Festival Napa Valley 2016

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Carlo Ponti presented the 2019 European Culture Prize to Sophia

Francis Ford Coppola with Sophia at her birthday gala in 2014

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The wholeness that Sophia Loren has brought into our lives shares her passions for artistry on a multitude of facets. What is the one characteristic that defines success for you? “Having the freedom and privilege of doing what you love professionally; having one’s passion be one’s work, which is a privilege few are lucky to have; and, to have the fortune of having a strong and stable family, which perhaps takes even more dedication than any artistic endeavor or occupation.”

Sophia with Michael Jackson and Kirk Douglas

The most challenging achievement, in my opinion, is to build a balanced, happy family unit. It is more difficult than any career achievement, for it demands endless love, altruism, and patience.”

She has unveiled the secrets to a life well lived, with longevity and the utmost passion for what drives her. From her amazingly troubled childhood to a prosperous and full life, the way it has unfolded and touched the hearts of those around the world amplifies its strength. Haute Living is particularly moved by her concluding remarks on family: “My greatest accomplishment to this day is my family. I credit my wonderful and beloved late husband, Carlo, for having given me my two sons, Carlo and Edoar-

Sophia and Marcello Mastroianni in Marriage Italian Style

do, orchestra conductor and film director, respectively. The most challenging achievement, in my opinion, is to build a balanced, happy family unit. It is more difficult than any career achievement, for it demands endless love, altruism, and patience.”

What an honor it has been to share some commentary on the life of an incredibly talented woman who rose from the perils of poverty up through the ranks to become one of the greatest artist figures of all time. Sophia, you are an inspiration, and your story will live on to inspire and motivate those who may think they are incapable of success, both internally and externally. I thank Sophia Loren and her son Carlo for their cooperation and friendship in helping to tell this tale. Once the impasse and crisis of the novel coronavirus has lifted, we shall all recall her reminders of strength, good health, and fortitude and go forth to share with others.

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Sophia with Paul Newman in Lady L

Sophia in 1967 Charlie Chaplin’s final film A Countess From Hong Kong with Marlon Brando

Sophia with Margrit Mondavi, Maria Manetti Shrem and Beth Nickel

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BY JENNIFER BODEN

HauteTRAVEL

FINDING WELLNESS IN CAREFREE, ARIZONA

CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa

CURRENT TIMES HAVE US DREAMING OF the great outdoors as well as wide open spaces, and Scottsdale, Arizona has plenty of that! With over 225 miles of trails in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, sunny skies, and for you when the time is right. With numerous resort spas and an average of 330 days of sunshine annually, the spiritual healing CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa

powers of the Sonoran Desert leave visitors feeling mentally and physically rejuvenated.

Before shelter-in-place (SIP), I visited Carefree, Arizona, located at the very northern border of Scottsdale. This charming, tranquil, small town is only about eight square miles and surrounds Black Mountain to the south and the west. With only approximately 1,900 homes, Carefree has terrific views of the untamed desert and myriad hiking and biking trails.

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CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa

CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa

PHOTO CREDIT:COURTESY OF RED MOUNTAIN RESORT PHOTO CREDITS: COURTESY OF CIVANA WELLNESS RESORT & SPA

endless room to roam, the desert is waiting

Two resorts set within this natural splendor caught my attention:

Boulders Resort & Spa and CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa are Sonoran

CIVANA and Boulders. Both have a little bit of everything and a whole lot

Desert wellness hideaways. The dry air, stunning vistas, and quiet environ-

of wellness offerings.

ment provide a peaceful backdrop for any wellness adventure.

MOST POPULAR WELLNESS ACTIVITIES AT BOTH RESORTS INCLUDE: Meditation Programs Culinary classes Yoga Desert hiking

PHOTO CREDITS: COURTESY OF BOULDERS RESORT & SPA

Boulders Resort & Spa

Boulders Resort & Spa

Boulders Resort & Spa

Big Red Cats

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BY LAURIE JO MILLER FARR

HauteTRAVEL

SAN LUIS OBISPO IS ALL GROWN UP Destination Downtown SLO Has Two New Deluxe Hotels THERE’S A WHOLE WIDE WORLD OUT THERE AND most of us can’t wait to explore once again. Our bakedin desire to travel is part of the human condition and for months now, pent-up demand has been simmering on the back burner.

That said, not all trips begin at the airport. How fortunate we are to have sunny California at our doorstep. And California’s Central Coast with its warm Mediterranean climate is where our story begins. Destination downtown San Luis Obispo has not one, but two, stylish new urban resort hotels, both with an accent on sophistication and relaxation: Hotel Cerro and Hotel San Luis Obispo.

Underwater effects in quiet room, Spa Cerro

SLO IS THE SWEET SPOT Midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, San Luis Obispo is the sweet spot of the Central Coast, its cultural and historic heart. Affectionately called SLO by the locals and SLO CAL by the tourism bureau, you’ll find a compelling combination of small city and an expansive greenbelt of countryside...so many great hikes...just 10 miles from the shore.

Thirty wineries, including Wolff Vineyards, Tolosa, Chamisal and Edna Valley Winery, produce Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in this AVA just 15 minutes’ drive from downtown San Luis Obispo. There’s the requisite white stucco mission, this one set smack in the center of downtown with a plaza for free summer concerts and a tree-lined creek run-

WHERE THE ROAD WILL TAKE YOU Take the Pacific Coast Highway. (It’s simply not possible to do the glorious PCH road trip too many times.) Head south, taking it slow to hug the coast on Highway 1 to appreciate the scenic landscapes and seascapes that are the signature of this remarkable stretch.

Pool at sunset on the rooftop at Hotel Cerro

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PHOTO CREDITS: COURTESY OF HOTEL CERRO

ning alongside.

Vintage Hotel Cerro entrance on Garden Street in San Luis Obispo

HELLO, HOTEL CERRO With sophistication in mind and downtown at the doorstep, the 65-room Hotel Cerro enters the San Luis Obispo hospitality scene with flair. Built upon the premise that sustainability and luxury needn’t be mutually exclusive, this full-service deluxe hotel was meticulously designed and built from the ground up. The space incorporates two vintage façades—one originally a hardware store and a distillery—on Garden Street, spread over almost an entire city block in an enviable location.

Mixed aesthetic expression at Brasserie, Hotel Cerro

Step into the clean lines of the lobby where pressed tin ceilings and modern lithographs displayed on a brick wall are one interpretation of the complementary aesthetics echoed throughout the property. In addition to 19th century ironmonger-brasserie-apothecary influences, a 21st century eco-friendly theme is reflected in custom-designed fixtures, fittings and furnishings throughout the guest rooms and garden suites.

GROUNDED BY THE TERROIR Mind you, when Hotel Cerro says “garden,” they literally mean “garden.” Seven of the 13 spacious suites have private patios with a fire bowl, and beyond, share a fragrant edible garden of micro-greens, vegetables and herbs flourish in

A Garden Suite at Hotel Cerro

raised beds and planters. Pinch some mint, snap off a shoot of peas and sniff sweet basil...what hasn’t gone into your dinner salad is yours to sample.

Don’t miss the courtyard’s signature fig tree, inspiration for Hotel Cerro’s leaf logo that speaks to the esteem in which this fruit tree was held by missionaries. “Cerro” itself means “hill.” It’s a tribute to the local mountain by that name, one of the Nine Sisters that surround the city. For the best panoramic view, take the elevator to the fourth floor to the hotel rooftop pool and terrace where service includes a bar menu and bites. Back on the ground floor, Brasserie SLO restaurant serves Mediterranean-inspired meals all day from a wood burning oven and wood-fired grill.

Whimsical, edible gardens at Hotel Cerro

STATE-OF-THE-SPA We wonder why spas are always referred to in square footage—in any case, 4,000-sq.-ft. is the measurement at Spa Cerro. More importantly, every square inch is soothing and calming, right down to the mesmerizing underwater-like art installations. Book a single or couples treatment: facial, massage, body scrub and wrap treatment and help yourself to the steam bath, quiet room, herbal tea or a glass of bubbly by the fireplace.

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HauteTRAVEL ¡HOLA! HOTEL SAN LUIS OBISPO “SLO, you’re growing up so fast,” is the way one local fan expressed it on his social media post. One short block from downtown SLO’s Mission Plaza, locals migrate to generous sofas around a fireplace in the lively lobby lounge or head outdoors to the courtyard. New to the downtown scene last autumn, Hotel San Luis Obispo rose on the site of a former parking lot in a great location next to the landmark Palm Theatre.

COMFORTS OF HOME The 78-room property, a sister to Sonoma’s Hotel Healdsburg, is billed as a “modern urban resort.” Airy suites and guest rooms have a warm, colorful vibe, decorated in muted jewel tones, cheerful throw cushions and handwoven rugs over light wood floors that give off an Etsy-kind of comfy feel. There’s an eco-emphasis; guests will find glass bottles of filtered water chilling in the room’s fridge plus refill stations throughout the property’s four floors.

Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa

Hotel San Luis Obispo

Edna Valley Vineyard

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PHOTO CREDITS: (BOTTOM TWO LEFT IMAGES) COURTESY OF VISIT SLO (HOTEL SAN LUIS OBISPO IMAGES) ©TANVEER BADAL

Sunny outlook, a guestroom at Hotel SLO

EAT, DRINK AND PLAY BOCCE There’s also a rooftop bar with 50-foot garden terrace outdoor pool and Jacuzzi, a bocce ball court, and a gym, plus two restaurants. Off the lobby, Piadina has a casual vibe in its fresh California take on Italian cuisine for farm-fresh meals at breakfast, lunch and dinner plus Sunday brunch.

Ox + Anchor, led by Thomas Keller alum Ryan Fancher, is a contemporary spin on a classic steakhouse with 10 different cuts of beef and a menu that’s equally influenced by the sea.

SOL SPA FOR THE SOUL Hurrah, Hotel San Luis Obispo has its own spa. Hit pause and rejuvenate at Sol Spa as you experience the four-step ritual. Wind down in the salt sauna, soak in the outdoor hot tub, step into a cool shower, lower your toes into a salt-infused foot bath. After your chosen spa treatment, relax on a sun lounge beside the pool. Remember to visit the scrub bar where infused oils, herbs, spices and a pestle are ready for you to craft a personalized salt scrub to take home.

Dining at Hotel SLO

Jacuzzi on the rooftop at Hotel SLO

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BY STEPH KEAY

HauteTRAVEL

WHEN IN ROSSLAND What’s a skier to do when in search of world-class powder without the wearisome lines? I’ll let you in on a little secret: RED Mountain Resort—just a hop, skip, and a jump north of the border.

AS A FORMER SKI AND SNOWBOARD EVENT PLANNER, I ONCE ORGANIZED

way, nearing the U.S.-Canada border. Less than 10 minutes after a quick stop to

trips to western Canada’s top ski resorts. Having visited every other stop on British

stretch our legs (and to go through customs), we pull off the highway and begin

unspoiled resort”—RED Mountain Resort in Rossland, B.C., the heart of the beautiful corner, glowing warmly amid milky surroundings. Outside, the last of the day’s Kootenay Rockies.

skiers and snowboarders trickle across the grounds, carrying their equipment to

Lines and commotion fill the departures level of San Jose International Airport the slopeside hotel’s ski concierge. Inside, cozy leather couches and two ruby red when I ready myself to fly out for a weekend of hitting the slopes. Just a few hours benches, repurposed from vintage chairlifts, dot the lobby. If you’re lucky, you’ll later, I land at the Spokane International Airport in Washington, strikingly quiet and

meet Russell, The Josie’s resident canine, an impossibly large and fluffy Bernese

secluded. I step outside and take a deep breath, inhaling the crisp, cool air. Bliss.

Mountain Dog.

It’s sunny but 50 degrees, which means the winter jacket that’s been tucked away

“We’re getting seven inches of snow tonight,” the concierge confirms with excite-

in my closet gets to make a rare appearance. I board the shuttle bus that will take ment as she leads me to my room. The spacious corner suite offers a breathtaking me and my compatriots to Rossland, a little under three hours away. Our motley view of RED Mountain Resort’s three mountains—Granite, Grey, and Red—plus the crew—would-be skiers and snowboarders from Colorado, New York, Rhode Island,

Silverlode Chairlift, just steps from The Josie’s doors. Away from the constant hustle

and Vancouver—excitedly volley snow forecasts back and forth.

and bustle of Silicon Valley, a comforting sense of calm falls over me, much like the

Snow-dusted mountaintops begin to emerge as we wind our way down the high- snow that will blanket this small ski town by tomorrow morning.

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PHOTO CREDITS: COURTESY OF RED MOUNTAIN RESORT

Columbia’s famed Powder Highway, it was about time I discovered “the last great, making our way slowly past tall snowbanks. The Josie Hotel appears around a

Dramatic exterior of The Silo

RED Mountain Resort is ranked #1 for the most acres per skier—meaning plenty of opportunities for “first tracks.”

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HauteTRAVEL Big Red Cats

With a population of fewer than 4,000 and not a single traffic light in town, the City of Rossland is the epitome of a community-oriented, yet-to-be-gentrified ski destination. In fact, while spending the day discovering RED’s extensive terrain with my “snow host” Tom (a complimentary service provided by the resort), it seems he’s almost reluctant for the secret of RED to slip out. Rossland-born, he moved to the nearby province of Alberta and returned to his hometown in the pursuit of powder following retirement. Now 70 years of age, he’s still enamored by its quaint charm.

“Have you seen the Kurt Russell movie Miracle? Rossland stood in for Lake Placid in it,” he says proudly. He shares Rossland’s rich heritage as a historic mining town founded 123 years ago during the gold rush. Its population exploded when prospectors from around the world flocked to Rossland, making it one of the largest cities in Western Canada at one time.

RED Mountain Resort

Tom remarks that a full day of skiing at the resort truly consists of just that—not time spent in endless lines. Rossland’s longtime mayor, Kathy Moore, shares the same sentiments. Over dinner at the Flying Steamshovel Gastropub—a local favorite for comfort food such as house-made elk burgers and mac and cheese with brown butter taleggio mornay sauce—she tells us that she first moved to the town in 1989, discovering that Rossland offered the best tree skiing you could access without a helicopter. Now, more than 30 years later, the expansive terrain continues to thrill and challenge skiers of higher levels. She recalls an impromptu jump off a cliff from the day before—what some skiers might refer to fondly as a “yard sale”—and recounts the amount of times she has broken her back (seven!). Luckily, there’s plenty of green runs at RED for beginners, too.

RED is ranked #1 for the most acres per skier, meaning those seeking fresh tracks won’t ever be disappointed. The resort has 119 runs spread across its three mountains, with eight chairlifts servicing access to 3,850 skiable acres over 2,919 feet of vertical terrain. From wide groomers to deep powder runs, there’s terrain for everyone: 17 percent

The Josie Hotel

beginner, 34 percent intermediate, 23 percent advanced, and 26 percent expert, to be exact. Despite this being one of the biggest snowfalls all season, I’m able to ski right up and ride the lifts the entire weekend. Even the first chair of the day at RED still moves

PHOTO CREDIT:COURTESY OF RED MOUNTAIN RESORT

The Josie’s ski concierge

PHOTO CREDIT:COURTESY OF RED MOUNTAIN RESORT

The Velvet Restaurant & Lounge

The Josie’s sauna Chicslopeside Sky Terrace Rooftop

quicker than the midday lines at other resorts. Add in 300 inches of annual snowfall, and this hidden gem sounds almost too good to be true—but it isn’t.

For experienced skiers (with levels from intermediate up to über-expert), Rossland is also home to Big Red Cats. The only snowcat skiing operation in British Columbia that offers separately guided trips for different skill levels, Big Red Cats opens the opportunity to explore an additional 19,300 acres of some of the best tree skiing and glades in the world. Want to try cat skiing but not quite ready to take on the backcountry? RED offers legendary $10-a-run cat skiing on Mount Kirkup. The terrain in this area offers open runs, tree skiing, and rolling advanced terrain, perfect for skiers and snowboarders comfortable with blue and black ungroomed runs.

Even after the chairs close, the festivities continue. After an exhilarating day on the mountain, The Josie’s guests can drop their equipment off at the ski concierge located next to The Velvet Restaurant and enjoy Executive Chef Marc-Andre Choquette’s French-

The spa at The Josie

influenced dishes and locally-inspired drink creations, complemented by stunning views of the mountainside. Don’t miss the signature French onion soup, for which Kootenay residents have been known to drive in especially. On Fridays, après-ski raclette is also offered on the outdoor patio, with warm mugs of mulled wine to complement the melted cheese served over warmed potatoes and gherkins.

The Josie also boasts an Aveda Concept Spa, featuring luxurious hot stone and chakra balancing massages on its treatment menu. Hotel guests can luxuriate in the hotel’s new panoramic, slopeside, cedar barrel saunas—which feel like basking inside a warm and toasty snow globe with an unfettered view of the mountains—to relax muscles and improve circulation after a day on the slopes.

At the end of a trip to Rossland, one is guaranteed to feel utterly restored in the way that only an exhaustive weekend of gliding through sprays of glittering powder under bluebird skies can elicit. However, while Rossland offers a bounty of adventure, there’s also its small-town charm (and priceless quality of feeling undiscovered) to be extolled.

Once a destination for gold-hungry prospectors, Rossland now brings explorers around

The Velvet Restaurant & Lounge

the world for a different kind of rush.

French-inspired dishes are served at The Velvet

The Josie offers mountain views

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BY OLIVIA DECKER

HauteRESIDENCE RESORT-LIKE RESIDENCES OFFER SPACIOUS SANCTUARY DURING SHELTER-INPLACE OR ANYTIME RESORT-LIKE SANCTUARY RESIDENCES OFFER ample space away from the city centers to retreat to your own private estate. More than ever, we need homes with large acreage for social distancing, space to work from home, facilities for homeschooled children, amenities to vacation at home, land to grow our own produce, space to entertain our family, and to enjoy life without leaving our gates!

Haute Living introduces you to three such residences…. .

SAINT HELENA RESERVE, NAPA VALLEY, CALIFORNIA AZTEC ESTATE, SILICON VALLEY, CALIFORNIA CALISTOGA ESTATE, NAPA VALLEY, CALIFORNIA

SAINT HELENA RESERVE, NAPA VALLEY, CALIFORNIA THE PERFECT NAPA VALLEY RETREAT ON 605 ACRES FOR THE EXTENDED FAMILY

This is an extremely rare opportunity to purchase the entire Saint Helena Reserve, consists of two magnificent homes completed in 2014 and five legal parcels for a total of ±605.65 acres with ±173 acres potential for vineyards subject to County approval.

Luxuriate in the world-renowned, indoor-outdoor Napa Valley lifestyle in the two fabulous, privately gated, ridgetop estate homes overlooking surrounding vineyards and hills plus build family compound in the five parcels, with majestic, panoramic views of vineyards, lush greeneries and Lake Hennessey. One estate has ±7,400 sq. ft. contemporary style home with six bedrooms and 6.5 baths on ±67.4 acres. It boasts grand spaces in every room. An entertainer’s dream kitchen opens to a broad lawn and infinity-edged pool, spa, bocce ball court, grand living/dining room with 18-foot high ceilings, family room with fireplace, home theater/media room, three car garage and a separate guest quarters. The second estate includes a ±6,350 sq. ft. home on ±69.4 acres with six bedrooms, 6.5 baths, pool, spa, bocce court and three car garage. All are located within 15 to 25 minutes’ drive to Rutherford, Yountville, and Saint Helena’s shops, gourmet markets, fabulous restaurants, renowned wineries and two five-star world-class resorts at Auberge du Soleil and Meadowood. www.StHelenaReserve.com

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HauteRESIDENCE AZTEC ESTATE, SILICON VALLEY, CALIFORNIA A CONTEMPORARY SILICON VALLEY ESTATE ON 52 ACRES WITH MAGNIFICENT VIEWS

Towering above Silicon Valley atop the Los Gatos hills in a private enclave behind the gate, Aztec Estate features soaring ceilings, a modern open floor plan, sweeping gardens and walls of glass that bring breathtaking views to the forefront of the living experience. The main residence offers superior quality and amenities throughout its 6 bedrooms, 6 full baths, & 2 half-baths, spanning appx. 10,309 sq. ft. of living space and the prominent shapes of contemporary design. Engineering and utilitarian elements play into the timeless design of George Foy with materials like glass, stone and steel used liberally in construction. Behind the double glass doors, a 2-story atrium studded with trees leads to grand-scale living and dining spaces. Soaring ceilings enhance the home’s incredible scale, while floor-to-ceiling window walls flood the spaces with natural light. The gourmet kitchen, with large island features over-sized glass windows. Secluded in its own private wing, walls of glass surround the spacious master suite, enveloping the sweeping vistas and an opulent marble bathroom boasts high ceilings. Beyond an office space, oversized fireplace and sitting area, sliding doors lead to a sprawling view deck overlooking the pool below and neighboring vineyards. The lower floor features a wine cellar, billiard room with wet bar, custom offices, a steam room/sauna and staff bedroom with bath. Aztec Estate offers the versatility to retreat in serenity or entertain on the estate grounds which feature an infinity-edged pool, tennis/basketball court, golf putting green, outdoor kitchen with bar, lush gardens include appx. 1,000 palm trees, various terraces, seating areas with firepit, fountains, waterfall and a space for helicopter landing. In addition, there is an 1,800 sq. ft. 2-bedroom, 2 baths guest house at the gate. This private estate with close access to the heart of energetically charged Silicon Valley provides a sanctuary from the bustling life below, while sharing the neighborhood with several of Silicon Valley’s elite. A unique combination of privacy, exclusivity, serenity, views, and luxury all in this state-of-the-art modern estate. Details on: www.AztecEstateLosGatos.com

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CALISTOGA ESTATE, NAPA VALLEY, CALIFORNIA A NANTUCKET-INSPIRED VINEYARD ESTATE ON 9.46 ACRES

Situated on Silverado Trail between Saint Helena and Calistoga, this spacious charming 5-bedroom, 6-bath residence on 9.46 acres features a gated entrance with tree-lined drive and wrap around verandas overlooking the vineyards and scenic Valley floor. Approximately 5,653 sq. ft., the main residence offers four en-suite bedrooms, open floor plan living/dining room, generous gourmet kitchen, and a guest quarters with a bedroom, full bath and a full kitchen with its own sitting room.

The lower floor features a spacious living room with floor to ceiling store fireplace, a billiard room, a wine cellar adjacent to the wine bar opening onto a large lawn outside and the vineyards and a large storage room.

A pool surrounded by stone sunbathing terraces features a stone pool house which currently serves as a guest house with bedroom, full bath with a kitchenette. Approximately 1.3 acres of professionally managed vineyard produces around three tons of Zinfandel grapes per year. The level lawn and many patios offer ample outdoor entertainment venues and private relaxing spaces, and the convenient Silverado Trail location offers easy access to downtown Saint Helena and Calistoga, the Yountville’s world-class restaurants, the five-star resorts at Auberge du Soleil and Meadowood and dozens of wineries. This is truly a beautiful sanctuary to enjoy with family in private or explore the abundance beautiful lifestyle of Napa Valley. Offered at $4,1950,000. Details and photos on www.CalistogaEstate.com

BY TIM LAPPEN

TheHAUTE LISTAuto

AUDI R8 V10 PERFORMANCE SPYDER QUATTRO AND AUDI E-TRON

The R8 Spyder is at home on any road, in any weather

Yang, Meet Yin I’ve always had an interest in extremes, yet it wouldn’t call myself an “extremist,” as that word has such negative connotations. Besides, I’m only about vehicular extremes.

Exhibit A? When I did a story about the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Carbon Edition 65 and its little brother, the Bolt. They had very little in common except for the bowtie on the hood.

Anyway, the point of this story is to explore what could be considered the two ends of the Audi spectrum, the lightning-fast R8 V10 performance Spyder and the e-tron allelectric. It was fun to drive them, one after the other, for a 2-week period. I have to say both stayed true to the Audi DNA—solid, comfortable, ergonomically designed, and good looking. Driving them, though, provided two very different experiences.

Let’s start with the 2020 R8 V10 performance Spyder quattro (that’s the full, official name, with the upper- and lower-case words copied verbatim from the window sticker).

We’re starting with the R8 because, if for no other reason than it always felt like it was chomping at the bit. Then again, with a 602HP V-10 motor snuggled very nicely into a great looking 2-seater weighing in at just over 3,800 pounds, it was no surprise that it

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It looks great with an open or closed top

could hit 60mph in a tick above three seconds—one Mississippi, two Mississippi …. The R8 is seriously swift, yet it didn’t have to brag about it. Oh, sure, if you pressed the right buttons and knew what settings you wanted, you could announce your arrival from the prior ZIP code, but the R8 is a car that performs with little drama (or, should I say, with little unintentional drama, since it does everything so effortlessly).

Another non-surprise: after hitting 60mph in 3-plus seconds, it can continue to pull all

A lifelong petrol-holic, mechanic (cars, motorcycles, boats), and automotive journalist since penning a column for his high school newspaper, internationally recognized attorney Tim Lappen is a partner at a major Los Angeles-based law firm, where he chairs the firm’s Family Office Group and its Luxury Home Group and is, of course, a member of its Motor Vehicle Group. He can be reached at tlappen@gmail.com.

the way up to the top speed of 205. Ponder that for a minute, since that once would have been the world record for land speed racing ... and now it’s available on a lease!

As is their wont, Audi’s take on a supercar arrives ergonomically well thought-out.

Ingress and egress are good, seating position is comfortable, visibility is surprisingly excellent, and all controls are easily understood and fall readily to hand. But don’t let all of this practical stuff lull you into complacency, as the R8 is a stormer of the first order.

From the rasp of the exhaust to the roar of the engine, this car is a delight to the senses.

It’s a technological tour de force that is every bit a track tiger as its competitors, and it does it all with such grace and comfort that it’s somewhat deceiving.

Drilling down a bit, let’s take a look at what’s below the surface. With the big, naturally-aspirated (non-turbo) V10, the all-wheel-drive R8 shoots ahead seamlessly with a 7-speed, dual-clutch transmission, shifting in about 120 milliseconds. The standard R8 has the same basic V10, with 562HP, but the performance edition I borrowed (the successor to the “V10 Plus” nomenclature of the past) bumps that up to 602HP, providing 0-60 times in 3.2 seconds. (Again, that number would have been a world record for a street car not that long ago.) Is that fast? I don’t have time to explain!

“My” R8 had the special 20-inch, five-spoke, titanium colored wheels, plus ceramic

The R8 looks stunning even while parked

brakes front and rear (ceramic brakes don’t fade nearly as much as standard discs), all of which are standard on the performance model. “Mine” was nicely optioned, to the total

The cockpit is focused on the driver

of about $18,000 added to the $208,100 base price of the performance Spyder, which brought on board special paint (Suzuka Gray); carbon fiber bits front, side and back; sports seats (which, thankfully for me, fit “adult-size” drivers); an upgraded B&O sound system; red brake calipers (something we all need); and, a few other nice additions. The R8 really looked as great as it drove.

So, since you brought up driving, how was it? In a word: terrific. I loved the endless power, the scream when I wanted it, and the quiet capability at other times, the seating comfort, great visibility, and even the parking ease. This really is a supercar with a Clark Kent option for daily use.

I really enjoyed my first time with the R8 several years ago (2013, which is a few generations ago in car time), and the newest edition is remarkably improved, although I didn’t think that there was anything missing in my review seven years ago. I rate it right up there with the competition and was sorry that I had to give it back.

Falling many thousands of dollars downward and adding quite a bit more weight PHOTOS COURTESY OF AUDI OF AMERICA

(sounds like the prelude to a bio-pic of a fallen Hollywood titan, right?), there’s the e-tron.

The interior is beautifully appointed—note the diamond stitching on the seats

But, before you let the somewhat negative lead spoil your image of this fine machine, let me add the bottom line up front: I enjoyed the e-tron so much, I bought one for myself.

So let’s look at why.

To start with, electric cars are not eveyone’s cuppa. We all know that. Even with the plethora of choices now available from hither (USA) and yon (worldwide), e-cars still only add up to a fraction of their internal combustion cousins. After an extensive, nocost-spared survey (okay, after checking Wikipedia), it’s apparent that, as of the end of 2018, the percentage of plug-in passenger cars on the road in the USA is about one-half of one percent. (China’s not faring much better at about 0.94%, but little Norway, that

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TheHAUTE LISTAuto overachiever, was at 10.7%. That still leaves the global total at 0.4%. As a surprise to no

all (or at least most) of which I wholeheartedly endorse. The big one is the Prestige

one, California was over 2%.) Now add me to the cast of hundreds (okay, thousands) who

Package (which adds $7,000 over the $74,800 base price). It includes dual-pane glass,

actually like all-electric cars as my ownership history dates back to the first all-electric

leather front seats with memory, massage, heating and cooling, a heads-up display, rear

MINI—the MINI-E—in 2009, which I drove for three years. Three more electrics spanning

side-window sunscreens, soft-touch door closers, and cool ambient lighting. Lest we for-

until a few months ago give me at least a little street cred to discuss these e-machines.

get, that package also includes an air ionizer (although I’m not sure if that’s effective for

And the e-tron (yes, all lower-case, very avant-garde), is a great generational leap over

every virus). The add-ons end with 21-inch wheels and Audi beam rings, which project

the cars I’ve owned already. To start, it’s a high-quality, well-finished vehicle. It’s more

lighted Audi rings on the ground when you open the doors. (Okay, I could have gotten by

of a mid-size SUV than a sedan. With four doors and a hatchback, it’s replete with fine

without those, but they’re helpful if you tend to forget which car you’re about to drive.) All

features like high quality front and back cameras, foot-swoop-operated tailgate, polished

of this was wrapped in the optional Galaxy Blue paint, which really looks great.

metal paddle shifters adding successive degrees of regenerative braking (nice touch!),

The battery’s range is just over 200 miles, which is on the low side of today’s high-mile-

Audi’s advanced MMI system (the multi-media interface program that they launched

range cars; but, the high-speed charging, especially on Audi’s high-speed DC charging

about 20 years ago) with Apple Car Play, adaptive cruise control (tractor beam for the

system, will give you about 80 percent charge in about 30 minutes and you can use an

guy in front of you), and more.

app to reserve a spot (plus, Audi will pay for the first approximately 2,000 miles of charg-

Since I don’t need to add quotation marks around the word “my” this time when writing about the e-tron’s equipment, let’s add the options (which totaled just under $10,000),

Galaxy Blue Metallic is a striking color

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ing on their Electrify America network).

The car is a joy to drive. Weighing in at 5,754 points, it’s no lightweight, but that al-

lows the car to have a terrific, smooth ride. It also feels stable and, thanks to the dual-pane windows, it’s really quiet, even on the freeway. At low speeds, most of the noise comes from the sound-augmentation system which the federal government mandates for all electric cars in order to provide more safety to pedestrians. Perhaps the sound is a great indicator of Audi’s attention to detail. After mixing together some 30 different sounds recordings, they correlated the sound (played from a small speaker behind the car’s right front wheel), so that it varies de-

The all-wheel drive quattro drivetrain is perfect in all conditions

pending on the car’s speed—whether it’s backing up or going forward and the like—to change both the sound and the volume. When you hear it, you might be reminded of Stars Wars, but on further thought, you will hear the unmistakable sound of a didgeridoo being played by

Even the hatchback is sleek

sound scientist Rudi Halbmeir himself, the e-tron “composer” who calls his creation “realistictechnical,” so that it’s not annoying but still makes people aware. It makes you wonder how much thought went in to the beep-beep-beep from a large truck backing up.

In summary, you may not get out of an R8 and into an e-tron and think, “These cars are so similar.” On the other hand, once you spend time with both, you will know that each was created with a tremendous amount of thought, skill and craftsmanship.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF AUDI OF AMERICA

Charging is simple and, with high-power DC charging, it’s super-quick

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Kelly E. Carter is the director of communications at Alpha Omega winery on Napa Valley’s Rutherford Bench. The former editor of “Haute Living San Francisco” previously enjoyed a lengthy, award-winning career in journalism writing about sports, entertainment, and luxury lifestyles for various media outlets.

Kelly co-authored New York Times bestseller “Come to Win: Business Leaders, Artists, Doctors, and Other Visionaries on How Sports Can Help You Top Your Profession” with Venus Williams and penned “The Dog Lover’s Guide to Travel” for National Geographic Books. She has traveled to more than 40 countries and territories on six continents and called Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, and Italy home. Visit Kelly at: www. kellyecarter.com

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HauteAMBASSADOR

Wine Country

Alpha Omega live virtual tasting set with Henrik Poulsen, Barrett Spiegel, and Bob Bath

WINE COUNTRY GOES VIRTUAL Enjoy tastings from home while supporting small wineries THE SMELL OF CRUSHED AND FERMENTING GRAPES DURING fall’s harvest season. The breathtaking scenery that makes it difficult

and winemakers from the comfort of your home while sipping their treasured wines.

for drivers to focus on the road ahead. The people-watching of women

For its first weekly live virtual tasting, an interactive, group expe-

in their obligatory colorful, flowy dresses, wedges, designer handbags,

rience on Zoom led by Alpha Omega’s winemaker Henrik Poulsen,

and sun hats. The stunning wine estates, each one dazzling in its own

master sommelier Bob Bath, and virtual ambassador Barrett Spiegel,

way, whether it be with fountains, columns, a long, ginkgo-lined drive-

Alpha Omega attracted more than 80 participants from 22 states who

way, or another unique and memorable feature. The toots of the Napa

received four wines from its 2020 Signature Series release in advance

Valley Wine Train as it chugs along the tracks. The after-dinner strolls

of the tasting. The following week, Alpha Omega virtually showcased

down dimly lit Washington Street in charming Yountville. These famil-

a 3-year vertical (2012, 2013, and 2014) of Cabernet Sauvignon from

iar smells, sights and sounds combine to make Napa Valley such a

the historical Beckstoffer Missouri Hopper Vineyard in a group setting.

special place for visitors and residents alike.

For both tastings, Alpha Omega vintners Robin and Michelle Baggett

After the state’s shelter-in-place order went into effect in March due

participated from their vacation home in Lake Tahoe and chatted with

to the COVID-19 pandemic, some Napa Valley wineries, including Al-

guests. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, there are pri-

pha Omega in Rutherford, began bringing Napa Valley to you in the

vate virtual tastings as well, the perfect way for friends to get together

form of virtual tastings. Imagine now having access to winery owners

from anywhere in the country or a unique gift for wine lovers.

PHOTO CREDITS: RYAN MCGUIRE, ALPHA OMEGA, BRYAN GRAY, TRA VIGNE PIZZERIA

BY KELLY E. CARTER

Michelle and Robin Baggett

While nothing can replace the in-person experience of wine tasting in Napa Valley, virtual tastings offer a wonderful way to enjoy exceptional wines in the comfort of your home while supporting small businesses. Napa Valley has such a big name that many people don’t realize that 95 percent of the wineries are family-owned and the majority are small producers. Of Napa Valley Vintners’ 550 members, nearly 80 percent produce fewer than 10,000 cases annually.

It’s been heartening to see all of the good things small Napa Valley businesses are doing for others during the pandemic. Tra Vigne Pizzeria started a #PayItForwardFriday which allows customers to purchase pizzas and family-style salads to be delivered on Fridays to charitable recipients, including OLE Health and Queen of the Valley Medical Center. Beckstoffer Vineyards, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, donated

Alpha Omega private tasting

$100,000 for COVID-19 relief to those most in need in Napa, Mendocino, and Lake counties. Through mid-April, Compline Wine Bar, Restaurant & Merchant in downtown Napa prepared and delivered nearly 4,000 sponsored meals to healthcare professionals at local hospitals. Napa Valley Distillery created hand sanitizers from spirits to provide free of charge to the community and law enforcement. Round Pond Estate in Rutherford donated produce from its winery gardens that would have been used in tasting room experiences to staff and local food banks.

These are just a few of the giving efforts by small Napa Valley businesses. I hope you can support Napa Valley either virtually or in person when hotels, restaurants, and wineries reopen. I look forward to seeing you. Cheers!

While nothing can replace the in-person experience of wine tasting in Napa Valley, virtual tastings offer a wonderful way to enjoy exceptional wines in the comfort of your home while supporting small businesses.

Produce from Round Pond Garden

Tra Vigne Pizza

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BY LYDIA GRAHAM

HauteAMBASSADOR

Health & Wellness

Dr. Michael Breus

SLEEP BETTER THROUGH A PANDEMIC OR ANYTIME FOR THAT MATTER

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Measure and bio-hack your sleep for optimal performance IF SOMEONE PROMISED A MIRACLE CURE

commutes, and always-on electronics. These all

well as the total time you are asleep and awake

to improve your vitality, appearance, hormone bal-

contribute to significant disruptions in our circadi-

each night. It also measures overall sleep quality

ance, immunity, weight, and overall health and lon-

an rhythm, the ongoing ebb and flow of hormones,

and restfulness. Each morning when you sync your

gevity, you would probably believe that person was

enzymes and circulatory activity reflected as our

Oura, you will receive a sleep score for the night

kidding, right? And, place an order immediately?

biological clock over the 24-hour day. These unnat-

before. Overall, this is helpful and interesting to see

Well, the miracle cure is good quality sleep. It’s free

ural disruptions often produce a sustained cortisol

the correlation between a late dinner, time on de-

and we do it every day—just some of us are better

level or escalate cortisol at exactly the wrong time

vices late in the evening, or a cocktail at dinner, and

at it than others. Here lies the conundrum.

of day. While much of what happens during sleep

the impact on sleep.

I have always been a good sleeper but hear the

remains a mystery even to the neuroscientists and

One of the attractive features is that Oura contin-

war stories from friends and family who struggle

researchers studying it, we are learning more about

ues to measure while in airplane mode. As a bonus,

for a good night’s sleep. What’s worse is their bed-

its importance.

Oura also tracks a variety of other activities such

time dread and anxiety often become a self-defeat-

As consumers, we are becoming more empow-

as steps (in airplane or active mode), readiness to

ing and fulfilling prophecy, making it even harder to

ered to learn about and measure our own sleep

tackle workouts (a few extreme athletes have ex-

get to and stay asleep.

via different devices and apps. The Oura ring

perienced issues with that reading), calorie burns,

Although sleep is the third pillar of health, along

(https://ouraring.com) is my favorite. It’s easy to

and heart rate variability. Overall, Oura has helped

with exercise and nutrition, America is currently

wear and measures a variety of sleep variables:

me become more actively aware, engaged, and in-

experiencing a sleep crisis. While some individuals

the amount and timing of REM sleep (when we

terested in my sleep quality in an effort to achieve

have actual sleep disorders such as sleep apnea,

dream), deep sleep (when we restore)—some ques-

some of the benefits of a good night’s sleep.

many suffer sleep disturbances from stress and life

tion how accurate the deep sleep reading is; but,

While measuring sleep may seem like a rather

imbalances exacerbated by long work schedules,

in any case, it’s a good gauge—and light sleep as

passive process, sleep management or biohacking

PHOTO CREDITS: COURTESY OF MINDWORKS, INC.

Lydia is a passionate advocate of healthy living. She has launched and positioned many health and wellnessrelated companies, products, technologies and organizations receiving more than 100 awards nationally and internationally. Her focus in the health sector is specifically on life sciences, aging and longevity. She is a partner and investor in several recognized national brands.

She sits on the board of the Buck Institute for Research on Aging whose mission is to eliminate the threat of agerelated disease for today’s and future generations. It is the only independent research organization globally dedicated to extending the healthy years of life. Like the scientists at the Buck, Graham envisions it will be possible for people to enjoy life at 95 as much as at 25.

To support Buck’s mission, please visit www.buckinstitute.org.

Oura ring and app

Dr. Michael Breus speaks at Health Longevity Weekend

one’s sleep for optimal performance throughout the entire

Dolphins - insomniacs, intelligent, neurotic light sleepers

standing the “power of when” to rise and go to sleep and

day can be a rather active, and even fun, process.

with a low drive for sleep (about 10%)

when to undertake different activities throughout the day

Many of us are familiar with popular sleep advice such

Lions - morning-driven optimists with a medium drive for

and evening for optimal health, achievement, creativity,

as: maintain a regular sleep schedule (go to bed and get up

sleep (15-20%)

or simple enjoyment. To learn more about this, check out

at consistent times); turn-off blue light devices and the TV

Bears - fun-loving, outgoing people who prefer a solar-

Dr. Breus’ book, The Power of When, for more detailed infor-

early in the evening; limit napping; eat two to three hours

based schedule and have a high drive for sleep (50%)

mation. (The book contains charts and suggestions on when

before bedtime; keep your bedroom cool; limit alcohol and

Wolves - night-oriented, creative extroverts with a me-

to do what for each chronotype.)

stimulating activities such as news consumption, violent TV

dium drive for sleep (15-20%).

shows, etc.; try relaxation techniques such as meditation or

Breus notes that when we were hunter-gatherers and lived

is no ideal—it’s just yours, so embrace it! Funny, many folks

deep breathing; turn off Wi-Fi; and even try modifications

in tribes, this genetic diversity served us well as a species

want to be those early-bird lions, but this chronotype, for ex-

in lighting to help promote sleep in the evening. However,

for millennia and protected the tribe from predators. The

ample, has the downside of frequently falling asleep on the

many folks with sleep issues, even after trying all these, are

dolphins would take the all-night shift of guarding because

couch by 9:30 p.m., which can put a cramp on evening social-

left tossing and turning and waking up tired. Not to minimize

they were light sleepers. Next, the lions took the early morn-

izing. As with each type, Dr. Breus suggests certain bio-hacks

these interventions as they should be part of a healthy per-

ing shift. The bears would hunt and gather in the daylight

for better sleep and daytime performance: for example, how

sonal sleep practice, but, putting aside a serious sleep condi-

and the wolves completed the cycle as they took the evening

the lion can get an extra hour of awake time in the evening

tion such as apnea or narcolepsy, etc., there just has to be

shift.

without interfering with evening sleep.

PHOTO CREDITS: (LEFT) COURTESY OF KODIAK GREENWOOD, (RIGHT) COURTESY OF OURA RING

more to it.

Each chronotype has its positives and negatives. There

The problem, however, came with the invention of elec-

Understanding your chronotype can help you uncover

That’s what I discovered when I met Dr. Michael Breus,

tricity, the Industrial Revolution, and later the technology

your true sleep pattern which, in turn, will help you sleep

a.k.a. “America’s Sleep Doctor” (https://thesleepdoctor.com),

revolution, as most of us began to conform to a schedule dic-

better which ultimately will impact the quality of your life

a highly esteemed sleep doctor and sought-after sleep coach,

tated by society and not by our own genetic predispositions.

in all areas—as a romantic partner, manager, or parent. For

at my recent Healthy Longevity Conference (see March-

Breus explains, “These four types don’t run on the same bio-

example, I once had an employee who just could not get

April issue). He had a refreshing and practical take on sleep

time. It took us only 123 years to undo 50,000 years of perfect

into the office early, but who produced high quality work.

based on chronobiology, the study of circadian rhythm and

bio-time keeping. Saying that our physiology hasn’t evolved

By simply adjusting his hours to a mid-morning start and an

its effect on human health and wellness. By harnessing it

as quickly as our technology is the understatement of the

evening finish, the result was a highly productive, happy, and

properly, he suggests, we can make adjustments for not only

millennium.”

loyal employee.

achieving better sleep, but also for better performance while

So, what can we do? While the bears dominate today’s

And, for you couples who might be different chronotypes,

we’re awake. It’s a bio-individual approach, not the usual

social and business schedules and leave the rest of us to

Breus covers how to navigate that, too. It might just save

one size fits all. In our families and workplaces, we have all

adjust, the answer lies in embracing (rather than fighting)

your relationship or marriage. Ultimately, harnessing your

witnessed (and sometimes envied) those energetic morning

our own chronotype and following its unique rhythms as

chronotype’s unique circadian rhythm and getting better

folks as well as the ones who seem to come alive at night

best we can. The first step is identifying your chronotype.

sleep might just extend your life, and you’ll feel healthier and

just as the rest of us wind down. These differences are not

Breus provides a simple quiz to help you determine this on

happier in the meantime.

by accident, Dr. Breus explains, but are the result of genetic

https://thepowerofwhenquiz.com. Once you have that, he

chronotypes. Dr. Breus identifies four basic ones:

explains how to harness your individual bio-time by under-

Sleep truly is the best miracle cure around —so, sleep well!

105

BY STEPHANIE BLOCK

Stephanie Block is a third-generation family partner in RNDC and Young’s Market Company.

She holds a WSET 3 certification in wine and spirits and is a recent graduate of an Executive MBA program from both Brown University and IE Madrid.

Previously, Stephanie ran St. Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winery’s social media and worked Napa harvest 2016.

Stephanie has championed gender equality as a national board member of the US National Committee for UN Women and once traveled the globe as an award-winning travel writer.

She has lived in 6 countries and visited over 80. Elle adore parler français.

HauteAMBASSADOR

Literary Reviews

WHAT ARE LOCALS READING? A peek into private libraries YOUR LITERARY AMBASSADOR WONDERS WHAT PEOPLE ARE reading these strange days. The local luminaries with whom we spoke seem to agree on one thing: you can always strive to make a dream come true, even if circumstances defer it. Several of the books they recommend are inspirational, motivational, and educational, which is no surprise when you interview top executives, business coaches, and professional athletes.

And from a professional ensconced in cinema comes a nod to a masterful collection of short stories, a Quibi of words, if you will. Consider curling up with these tomes for homes.

Philana Bouvier: The Art of War by Sun Tzu. Philana Bouvier is Vice President of Fine Wine at Young’s Market Company and chair of the Women’s Leadership Council of the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America. how to approach conflict. The Art of War provides great value in honing a unique skillset for the art of negotiation and understanding environments faced with complex obstacles that arise both personally and professionally throughout life. It also teaches critical lessons on choosing your battles wisely, planning for opportunities, knowing yourself well, and getting closer to your adversaries even more to resolve differences.”

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Philana Bouvier

PHOTO CREDIT: GURU KHALSA

“This book has given me extraordinarily comprehensive guidance on

Jacqueline Hawk: The Power of Full Engagement by Jim Loehr & Tony Schwartz. Jacqueline Hawk is the founder of Soar Coaching & Consulting and uses her proprietary “Power of the Ask” framework to coach individuals and teams to transition to the next level of success and fulfillment. Learn more at soarcc. com.

“This book and in-person training changed my life by transforming how I manage my energy, not my time, to achieve my professional and personal goals. During this phase of my career, I had a crushing workload, high stress, and increasing demands on my time. Like most people under stress, we look for systems, frameworks, processes, and other people to help us get through. Those approaches work only temporarily. Instead, this book teaches us to take stock in and feed our physical, mental, emotional, and purpose energies to enable us to be more engaged, efficient, and fulfilled. I was fortunate to be formally trained in the authors’ framework, and I draw upon it with my clients to help them thrive in their high-demand and fast-paced lives.”

Joey Wagman: The Mindful Athlete

by George Mumford. Joey Wagman is a professional baseball player, Bay Area community activist, and pitcher for Israel’s Olympic baseball team heading to Tokyo in 2021. Learn more about him at teamisrael-joeywagman.com.

“Being an athlete takes a tremendous

Jacqueline Hawk

amount of physical skill and talent. But the mental side of the game is even more important and can be learned. This book shows how to build those mental skills from the A1 source, George Mumford. Mumford is credited by the likes of Michael Jordan and the late great Kobe Bryant for helping take their games to the top. I have a personal connection to this book, because one year ago I was recovering from shoulder surgery. I needed to train for an upcoming Olympic qualifying tournament. It was the first of four in a span of two months, so I needed to be healthy. Because I couldn’t physically train, I sought the help of this book to work on the mental game and find “The Zone.” It helped tremendously, as I was able to build skills and implement them into my game in all four tournaments, resulting in back-to-back Best Pitcher Awards and a spot in the Olympics.”

PHOTO CREDIT: JACQUELING HAWK BY CHRIS CHICHTON; JOEY WAGMAN BY DAN ROTEM; KIRSTEN STROBEL BY MOANALANI JEFFREY

Joey Wagman

Kirsten Strobel: A Manual For Cleaning Women by Lucia Berlin. Kirsten Strobel is the Director of Advancement for SFFILM, the nonprofit organization behind the longest-running film festival in the Americas. SFFILM supports current and next-generation artists and fosters a community of film lovers. Visit SFFILM.org to learn more.

“This collection of short stories is raw wit and grit that inspire compassion. She takes the mundane and makes miracles. Like many great and countless artists, Lucia was not seen in her lifetime, but her voice and stories resonate vividly now. In these surreal days when we are truly learning about what is essential, this book is pitch perfect and reminds us of the bonds we all share. This book jumped out at me as comfort as we cancelled our 63rd SFFILM Festival, as I deeply love our shorts program. In eight to 18 minutes, you are transported to worlds that are both close and foreign, feeling overwhelming empathy and warmth. They are curated in a rhythm that is an emotional roller coaster ending in renewed hope. I really miss getting to do that in a theater with fellow film lovers. Nobody wants to ride a roller coaster alone.”

Kirsten Strobel

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BY NINA ERICSON

HauteAMBASSADOR

Life Coach

LIFE COACH AMBASSADOR Nina Clark Ericson, Ph.D.

Nina Clark Ericson, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist with a practice in Palo Alto. Dr. Clark Ericson helps people live more empowered, happier lives through psychotherapy, life coaching, dating coaching, and Equus Coaching (coaching with horses, not riding). Her areas of expertise include anxiety and depression, difficult life transitions, and emotional eating.

WE NOW KNOW THAT THE BAY AREA WILL BE UNDER QUARANTINE AT LEAST UNTIL THE END OF MAY. WE CANNOT KNOW THE FUTURE, so we must accept the reality of this unprecedented time. As the spiritual innovator Byron Katie says, “When I argue with reality, I lose, but only 100% of the time.” Don’t waste your energy on arguments (most often in your head) about COVID-19 and on what should and shouldn’t be done about it. Accept what is.

Here is some advice to manage the five areas in life that tend to be challenging for many of us: emotional eating, loneliness, anxiety, melancholy, and boredom.

CURB EMOTIONAL EATING FEELING BETTER IN TOUGH TIMES In challenging times like these, it’s all too tempting to try to buffer unpleasant emotions with food. Eating ice cream, pasta, and pizza is a fast, easy way to avoid negative feelings.

• Are you feeling anxious, lonely, bored, or sad?

• Did your desire to eat come on quickly?

• Do you crave a specific food, such as ice cream or pasta?

• Are you tired rather than hungry?

Learn to differentiate physical hunger from emotional hunger and try these strategies to feel better.

108

PHOTO CREDITS: SHUTTERSTOCK

Now is a great time to learn how to eat more mindfully. The next time you think of reaching for a comfort food, look for these signs that it might be emotional hunger:

LONELINESS ARE YOU FEELING LONELY? THE ACHE OF LONELINESS MAKES YOU FEEL DISCONNECTED. • Connect with a friend by phone call or video. I mean REALLY connect- as Brene Brown encourages, be vulnerable.

This is a tough time and we all need support.

• Organize a virtual Coffee Chat or Happy Hour with friends.

• Go for a socially-distanced walk with a friend or two.

• Find community with organizations that are now functioning online (Religious groups, the Commonwealth Club, a Facebook group that shares your passion)

ANXIETY ARE YOU FEELING ANXIOUS? YOU KNOW THAT FEELING: YOUR HEART BEATS FAST, YOU FEEL RESTLESS, AND YOUR THOUGHTS RACE WITH WORRIES ABOUT FINANCES, YOUR KIDS, YOUR JOB. • Create a mantra that calms you. Your personal mantra should really resonate with you and fit your current concern. My personal mantra for COVID-19 is “This, too, shall pass.”

• Light some candles, put on some soothing music, and take a hot bath.

• Meditate. If you don’t know how, use an app like Headspace or Calm. Research overwhelming shows that meditation is associated with brain and mood improvement.

• Take an online restorative yoga class. Benefits include enhanced mood, boosted immune system, and improved flexibility.

• Heartmath® is a scientifically proven method that can help you decrease anxiety and improve several aspects of your physical and mental functioning. The meditation is easy to learn. Find video instructions on the heartmath.org website.

109 Bud break in Napa Valley

HauteAMBASSADOR

Life Coach

MELANCHOLY ARE YOU FEELING SAD? SADNESS IS A FEELING OF EMOTIONAL PAIN, UNHAPPINESS. • Take an online vinyasa yoga class to strengthen muscles, work out stress, and feel invigorated.

• Start planning your next trip. Deep-dive into researching the culture, the landmarks, the restaurants. Enjoy the anticipatory excitement!

• If you’ve been in sweats all week (or all quarantine), then shake things up by getting dressed-up!

• Walk your dog(s).

• Listen to a podcast that lifts you up or takes you away … or both.

• Read a book about a topic that lights you up, or an old favorite.

• Follow a daily gratitude practice. Research consistently shows that feeling gratitude is strongly associated with greater happiness; and over time, it has positive effects on your brain. Each day make a list of five things that you are grateful for.

• Do something that helps others. Research shows that being helpful to others increases your sense of happiness. Make masks and give them to essential workers. Write cards to people who are in assisted living facilities. Do the shopping for your elderly neighbor.

• Savor a wonderful memory. Engage all of your senses. A memory I re-imagine is of me riding a horse in a parade a year ago. I close my eyes and imagine the sounds of the crowd and the horse’s hoofbeats on the pavement, the tingle of the sun and slight breeze on my face, the vibrant colors of the riders’ costumes, the smell of the horses, the feel of the horse.

• Watch a show that makes you laugh. Cheers is now my current go-to favorite.

BOREDOM ARE YOU FEELING BORED? BOREDOM IS A FEELING OF DULL DISINTEREST. • Brush up on a second language with an online program. Duolingo and Babbel are great.

• Learn a new skill or improve a skill you already have. You can find online videos teaching absolutely everything.

• Pamper yourself. Enjoy an at-home spa treatment with a manipedi and face mask.

• Declutter a drawer or a closet and enjoy the sense of accomplishment.

If you want life coaching to help you navigate the pandemic or transform Be kind to yourself. That may sound silly, but we suffer when we are critical of ourselves. That anxious, angry energy seeps out into everything that we do. Cultivate self- patterns that inhibit you from living the life you desire, please contact me at nina@ninaclarkericson.com. I am currently conducting private sessions on Zoom. compassion. See www.self-compassion.org to learn how.

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Wherever there’s a fight so that hungry people may eat, we will be there.

World Central Kitchen’s food first responders are mobilizing urgently to get restaurants working again and nourishing meals to those in need.

Join us as we use the power of food to heal and strengthen communities nationwide in this time of crisis.

WCK.org

BY STEPHANIE BLOCK

HauteSEAT

Farah Makras

AT HOME WITH PHILANTHROPIST FARAH MAKRAS It was a treat to speak with notable Bay Area doyenne, Farah Makras. Not only is she passionate about helping meet the needs of children everywhere, she constantly explores and celebrates unique fashion and home aesthetics.

1. HOW DO YOU FIND A GOOD WORK-LIFE-FAMILY BALANCE? Balance is a challenge, and I’m always thinking about ways to be more present for the kids or to give more at work. There’s no perfect answer. Because my charitable mission consists of mostly youth programs, there are points where my family can and does get involved.

There’s no magic solution. I have a lot of energy and am passionate about what I do.

2. WHAT ARE YOU JUGGLING?

Evening on the Stage fundraiser at the SF Opera House, 2019

I sit on several boards (Booker T. Washington Community Center, Family Builders, Drew High School, and the Opera Guild). I’m a mother and a wife. And I like to explore design and fashion with friends.

3. IS THERE ANYTHING WITH WHICH YOU’RE INVOLVED THAT MIGHT SURPRISE PEOPLE? Chairing the 100-year anniversary gala of the new Booker T. Washington Community Center on November 14, 2020. Children’s charities. That’s where my heart is.

4. WHAT OR WHERE DO YOU TURN FOR COMFORT AND REASSURANCE? It’s a “who”—my husband, Victor. He’s my partner in this beautiful life! I’m also blessed with great friends.

5. DO YOU HAVE A PRACTICE AND/OR HOBBY THAT HELPS YOU THROUGH HARD TIMES? I love to go for long walks and listen to my audible , great books like The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle and American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins. I love good food, good friends, good

PHOTO CREDIT: © MARY MURPHY

wine, and lots of laughter. A night out with dear friends at Kokkari restaurant.

6. WHAT DOES THE WORD “FAMILY” MEAN TO YOU? Lately it means sheltering in place and playing Monopoly with the kids. It’s not ideal for the kids—they don’t want to be stuck in the house. But I love having them close, and we’re making the best of it. Of course, it’s stressful: schooling from home, we’re all on top of each other at times, and patience can wear thin. But we’re all healthy and safe with lots of love.

There are moments when I look around at the five of us enjoying a board game together and I just feel so fortunate.

Victor and Farah Makras at home

113

HauteSEAT Focusing on children’s charities has always been the priority. When the next generation is nurtured and given opportunity, they have the chance to grow up and change the world.

7. ARE YOU MORE SCHEDULED OR SPONTANEOUS OR A COMBINATION? I’m actually very scheduled in most things outside of the home, so I can be more flexible for the kids. One is an adult with

Fundraising event at the Makras residence for orphanages in Haiti raised over $200,000

his own child, but I have three teenagers: two still living with me and one at college. Kids require flexibility, but I can be very

Fundraising for Mayor London Breed at the Makras residence

spontaneous when it’s for a good time.

8. WHAT INFORMS YOUR PHILANTHROPY? WHEN NEEDS ARE EVERYWHERE, HOW DO YOU FOCUS? Focusing on children’s charities has always been the priority.

When the next generation is nurtured and given opportunity, they have the chance to grow up and change the world.

9. WHAT IS A FUN ESCAPE OR SILLY TREAT YOU ENJOY? Not very silly, but a flirty walk along the marina to the Golden Gate Bridge with my husband on a weekend morning is an indulgence for us. I have enjoyed going to fashion shows with friends in Paris and New York.

10. THANK YOU SO MUCH! ANY WORDS OF WISDOM TO SHARE? It’s so hard to know what’s next in times of uncertainty. But making sure my family stays healthy and thinking about productive ways we can help—whether that’s through online giving now or philanthropic endeavors when the shelter-in-place is lifted—keeps me sane and hopeful.

114

Photo taken for Asian Neighborhood Design flyers

115

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California Lifestyle Collection Golden Gate Bridge View Estate

Olivia Hsu Decker | SanFranciscoFineHomes.com Cell: 415.720.5915 | Olivia@SanFranciscoFineHomes.com | Lic.# 00712080

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$5,950,000 bar and library provide unique places for indoor entertaining while the shaded archways and terrace in front of the home provide the same for outdoor living. The gourmet kitchen features a skylight, adjacent outdoor barbeque, and space for a large harvest table. This two-parcel compound is approached by either of two gated street entries, one with circular motor court, 2-car garage plus ample parking inside the gate, and the other entry opening into the orchard of fruit trees, pool and pool house with full bath and kitchen/bar, BBQ area, hot-tub and tennis court. The property can be purchased separately for 75 Margarita at $3,950,000 and 85 Margarita at $2,950,000.

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