BLUEPRINT
OFEXCELLENCEIN
ST . LOUISREALES TAT E THEDEFINITIVE
FromCoastlines totheGateway
Krissyloveshelpingclientsrediscover St.Louiswithherhometownexpertise. Fromfindingtherightneighborhoodto thebestrestaurants,farmer’smarkets (checkoutTowerGrove!),ordogparks, “Ifeelresponsibleformakingyoulove thecityasmuchasIdo.”
Opening HiddenDoors
Withadiversenetworkofagents acrosssixoffices,Krissyoffers unmatchedlocalexpertise.From off-marketlistingstoinsider opportunities,herconnectionsgive youtheedgewheninventoryistight. Noneighborhoodisoutofreach.
Krissyknowsthatmakingahousefeel likehomerequiresapersonaltouch.She makesitaprioritytolearnwhattruly matterstoherclients,goingtheextra miletomakethemfeelseen,heard, andcaredfor.“It’sthelittlethings thatreallymatter.”
Backedbyaseasonedsupportstaff withdecadesofexperience,she hasaccesstounparalleledguidance andresourcesforeverysituation. Frommarketingstrategiestosharp negotiationinsights,“havingthat officesupportisimmeasurable.”
Therightapproachtoprovidingcomprehensivecare.Therightlocationforyour family.Therightamenitiesallaroundyou,fromdiningtoactivitiestoentertainment. Therightenvironmenttorediscoveryouroldselfandbecomeyournextself. Comelearnwhatmakeslocally-ownedMcKnightPlace TheRightPlace forboth ourresidentsandtheirfamilies. Askaboutourall-inclusivepricing.
PUBLISHER
Ian Caso
EDITORIAL
MA n AGI n G e DITOR
Ashley Klein > aklein@laduenews.com
DIGITAL e DITOR & STAFF WRIT e R
Amanda Dahl > adahl@laduenews.com
ASSOCIAT e e DITOR
Emily Standlee > estandlee@laduenews.com
CO n TRIB u TI n G WRIT e RS
Drew Gieseke, Sheila Oliveri, Charlotte Renner, Nancy Robinson,
Chelsea Del Rosso, Andrea Smith, Mabel Suen, Katie Yeadon
SALES
VIC e PR e SID en T OF SAL e S
Kevin Hart > khart@stlpostmedia.com
SenIOR MeDIA STRATeGIST
Katie Ray > kray@laduenews.com
M e DIA STRAT e GIST
Michelle Brown > mbrown@laduenews.com
SP e CIAL PROJ e CTS MA n AG e R
Maggie Peters > mpeters@laduenews.com
CLASSIFI e D ACCO un T MA n AG e R
Lisa Taylor > ltaylor@lee.net
ART DIR e CTOR
Laura De Vlieger > ldevlieger@laduenews.com
ASSISTA n T ART DIR e CTOR
Christopher Oth > coth@laduenews.com
CO n TRIB u TI n G PHOTOGRAPH e RS
Christina Kling-Garrett, Bryan Schraier
AD D ITI ON ALARE A LISTINGS
466S.PriceRoad(Ladue) C $5,200,000
544QuailRidgeLane(St.Albans) C $3,950,000
139FrontenacForest(Frontenac) C $3,395,000
234NorthBrentwoodBlvd.(Clayton) C $3,100,000
20PicardyLane(Ladue) C $2,790,000
2025WoodlandKnoll(Kirkwood) C $2,770,000
2033WoodlandKnoll(Kirkwood) C $2,745,000
2017WoodlandKnoll(Kirkwood) C $2,525,000
2002WoodlandKnoll(Kirkwood) C $2,455,000
2005WoodlandKnoll(Kirkwood) C $2,370,000
2010WoodlandKnoll(Kirkwood) C $2,285,000
8121StratfordDrive(Clayton) C $2,190,000
16PicardyLane(Ladue) C $1,929,000
45BallasCourt(TownandCountry) C $1,850,000
653HawbrookAvenue(Kirkwood) C $989,000
450BogeyLane(Kirkwood) C $989,000
834TwinPineDrive(Kirkwood) C $984,500
1520AnnAvenue(Kirkwood) C $899,000
6351PershingAvenue(UniversityCity) C $874,900
7744DavisDrive(Clayton) C $849,900
7720CountryClubCourt(Clayton) C $825,000
582S.BerryRoad(WebsterGroves) C $799,000
164PlantAvenue(WebsterGroves) C $795,000
730MarkWesleyLane(Ballwin) C $789,900
447MarfordDrive(CreveCoeur) C $720,000
807HavenwoodCourt(WarsonWoods) C $699,000
1805FirethornDrive(DesPeres) C $649,000
10656LadueRoad(CreveCoeur) C $619,000
308CarolineAvenue(Kirkwood) C $615,000
10221LylewoodDrive(Ladue) C $599,000
7527OxfordDrive,#1E(Clayton) C $599,000
131GayAvenue(Clayton) C $559,500
7266CrevelingDrive(UniversityCity) C $550,000 21BeaverDrive(CreveCoeur) C $548,500 17NantucketIslandCourt(Wildwood) C $535,000 830MontmartreCourt(CreveCoeur) C $519,000
4909LacledeAvenue(St.LouisCity) C $475,000 218EuclidAvenue(RockHill) C $434,500 7487ShaftesburyAve.(UniversityCity) C $379,900 12960BelleriveEst.Dr.(CreveCoeur) C $375,000 160RueGrandDrive(LakeSt.Louis) C $359,625 7347DaleAvenue(RichmondHeights) C $345,000 7751GardenAvenue(Shrewsbury) C $289,500 10223WhitlockDrive(Overland) C $279,000 6311WadeAvenue(St.LouisCity) C $250,000 121E.WashingtonAve,#1E(Kirkwood) C $194,900 1773HighSchoolDrive(Brentwood) C $184,900 907SouthHanleyRoad,#5(Clayton)
1. 45BallasCourt•TownandCountry NEWLISTING! Ifyou’reseekinganewerhomewithtimelesscharacter andcustomdetails,thisistheone!Designedbythewell-knownSonja Willman,thisresidenceshowcasesstrikingdesignelementsanddistinctive detailsthroughout.The2-storygreatroomisfloodedwithnaturallightand featuresadramaticstonefireplace,wetbar,andhand-carvedwoodbeams. Theheartofthehomeistheunique2-storygourmetkitchen.Oneofthe standoutfeaturesistheexpansivescreened-inporch,offeringsereneviews ofthebeautifulbackyard,pool,andwaterfall. $1,850,000
2. 10223WhitlockDrive•Overland
NEWLISTING! Nestledinapeacefulneighborhoodthischarmingmidcenturyisfullofcharacter.Thiswell-caredforhomeoffersathoughtful layoutwithablendoffunctionandstyle.Theinvitinglivingroomhas plentyofnaturallight&newvinylplankflooring.Thekitchenoverlooksthe backyard&flowsintothediningroom. $279,000
3. 1805FirethornDrive•DesPeres
NEWLISTING! Welcometothisbeautifullymaintained,brickranch, locatedonaculdesacinaprimelocation.Thegenerousfoyerisflanked byaspaciouslivingroomwithafireplaceandadiningroomperfectfor everydayuse.Beyondthatyou’llfindanewerkitchen,openingtoafamily roomandascreenporchthatoverlooksthebackyard. $649,000
4. 7720CountryClubCourt•Clayton
ThischarmingCraftsmanhomeisonalandmarkstreetinClayton.Stepinto timelesselegancewiththisbeautifullymaintainedhome,lovedandcared forbyitsownersfor34years.Thehomeoffersarecentlycompletelyrebuilt frontporch,bright&spaciouslivingroom,andadjoiningdiningroom.The backyardishasanin-groundpool,ararityinClayton. $825,000
5. 17NantucketIslandCourt•Wilwood NEWLISTING! Nestledonaserenecul-de-sacinWildwood,this exquisiteranchhomewithanopenfloorplanoffersablendofcomfortand modernamenities.Thelivingroomishighlightedbyagasfireplaceand vaultedceiling.Theeat-inkitchenhasbeenupdatedwithcustomcabinetry &stainless-steelappliances. $535,000
6. 234NorthBrentwoodBlvd.•Clayton
Rareopportunitytoexperiencethepinnacleofrefinedlivinginthistimeless andelegantresidence.Youarewelcomedintoagraciousentrythatopens toahandsomedenwithafireplace,afabulous light-filleddiningroom, andacustomkitchen/familyroomthatfeaturesaspectacularbox-beamed ceilingandwood-burningfireplace. $3,100,000
7. 12960BelleriveEstatesDrive•CreveCoeur NEWLISTING! Discoverthecharmofthisbeautifulbrickranchnestledin asought-afterCreveCoeursubdivision.Inside,naturallightpoursthrough thenewerfull-sizedwindowsanddoors.Thecozyfamilyroom,complete withafireplace,setsawelcomingtone,whilethekitchenandbathrooms, updatedin2015,boastmoderntouches. $375,000
8. 447MarfordDrive•CreveCoeur NEWLISTING! Customcolumns,crownmolding,andgorgeous woodfloorsawaitasyoustepinsidethisfullyrenovated,4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroomranchhomeinthesought-afterRunnymedesubdivision.The homefeaturesastunningcenterislandkitchenwithcustomcabinetry,and stainless-steelappliances.Theeat-inareaflowsintoabrightfamilyroom withastrikingstonefireplace. $720,000
45BallasCourt•TownandCountry 2. 10223WhitlockDrive•Overland
447MarfordDrive•CreveCoeur
12960BelleriveEstatesDr.•CreveCoeur
1805FirethornDrive•DesPeres
6. 234NorthBrentwoodBlvd.•Clayton
17NantucketIslandCourt•Wildwood
7720CountryClubCourt•Clayton
Whether you’re planning a trip, cracking open the books on your to-read list or kicking off a project you’ve been eyeing all year, summer always feels like a great time to explore new horizons.
If you’re entertaining kids on break from school or seeking ideas for a rarely used room of the house, local interior designer Kelly Johnson’s playroom makeover is sure to inspire. On p. 20, contributing writer Andrea Smith shares how Johnson created a space that not only accommodates the homeowner’s many grandchildren but also remains functional for the adults in the house too.
Compiling your summer reading list? Contributor Charlotte Renner asked fellow St. Louis-based Bookstagrammers about their favorite books set on islands, and their picks include dramatic thrillers, laid-back beach reads and everything in between. Peruse their selections on p. 52.
Summer weekends and day trips go hand in hand, and whether you’re going solo or bringing friends or kids along, St. Louis always has something new to check out. Digital editor and staff writer Amanda Dahl explores updates to the historic Old Courthouse on p. 47, for example, and Renner returns on p. 12 to feature Pocketparks’ transformation of a vacant lot in Laclede’s Landing into a site for art and activities.
Happy reading,
Ashley Klein, Managing Editor
LadueNews.com
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Discover where you can take self-defense classes locally at laduenews.com. We share four gyms in the St. Louis metro that offer a variety of martial arts, Jiu Jitsu and Krav Maga classes, which introduce you to specific combat skills and self-defense techniques.
janetmcafeeinc.I9889claytonroadIsaintlouis,missouri63124I314.997.4800Iwww.janetmcafee.com
Outdoor LivingCREATEDFOR YOU
ByMaggiePeters
Chesterfield ValleyNurseryis your go-to, not just forthewidest varietyofplantsinthe region,but for expertdesignersandservice tomakeyourperfectoutdoorlivingspace justintime forsummer! Family ownedandoperated formore than35 years,Chesterfield ValleyNursery hasthe experiencedandcreative staffneeded tobring projectsofallsizesto fruition, workingwith clients togive themtheirdreamspace.
Homeownersin TownandCountry recently broughtChesterfield ValleyNurseryintohelpthem designtheperfectoutdoorlivingareaaround a uniqueplunge pool.
“Theproject wassignificantinscope,”explains designerandprojectmanagerBobGraeler. “Part ofthepremiseontheproject was workingaround thepoolandhavingthespace arounditsuitable foroutdoorentertainmentonanintimatescale withjustthehomeownersorsmall gatherings. Itincorporated agazeboandfirepitspace.”
Graeler explainsthatthroughboththetalented installationstaffandthecreativityofthedesign staff, thepool wasinstalledas afocalpoint,with the restofthespace designedaroundit,creating a seamlesslook.Headdsthattheyworkedwith the client everystepofthe way,frominitialinvestigation to coordinationand executiontoensure thatthe client washappy withtheprogression.
“Oneofthe key aspectsoflandscapedesign islisteningtothecustomer, whattheirdesires
are, whattheirneedsare, whattheir expectations are– whilealsogiving feedback onproperplant selection,” hesays.
Chesterfield ValleyNurseryisproudtohave an unparalleledselectionofplantsto choose from, includingonesthatare hardy forourarea,as well as a large numberofuniquespecimens.
“Iwillgive accoladesto my brother, our owner, JimGraeler forthat,” Graeleradds.“Herunspoint onthatandhemakesmany tripstosomeour suppliersand vendorsthroughoutthe country –thepacificnorthwest, Tennessee, Michigan,the Carolinasandmore. Hetalkstothegrowersabout ourdesiresandmakessurewegetthebest product available.”
Graeler concludesbysayingthatChesterfield ValleyNurserywillalwayscommunicatewiththe customeronwhatplantsnotonlylookbest for theirproject,butwill workwithenvironmental factorslike sunlightandpredatorssuch asdeerand rabbits.Theteamstrivestoensure customersare informedonhow tocarefortheplantsbeingused sothattheiroutdooroasislooksfirst-day beautiful for yearsto come.
If you’re interestedinsprucingup youroutdoor livingspaces, reach outtoChesterfield Valley Nurserytomakeyourdreams areality.
Chesterfield ValleyNursery, 16825N. Outer 40Road, Chesterfield, 636-532-9307, chesterfieldvalleynursery.com
>PhotoscourtesyofChesterfieldValleyNursery
COMINGSOON
Thisstatelyhomesitsonoveranacreofprivatelandwithinthe sought-afterLadueSchoolDistrict, offeringconvenientaccessto nearbyhospitals.Anewerbuild,thepropertyisimpeccablymaintained andfeaturesacharmingbrickfrontporch.Inside,thegrandfoyer boastsasweepingcurvedstaircase,marblefloorswithdiamond insets,andadramatictwo-storyceiling.Thepaneledlibrarywithbuiltinshelvingmakesforaperfecthomeoffice,whiletheformaldining roomfeatureselegantwallpaperandachandelier.Theexpansive greatroomincludesafireplaceandwetbar,withviewsoftheprivate backyard,completewithapool,waterfeatures,andaseparatepool housewithakitchenetteandfullbath.Sophisticatedwainscotingand detailedmoldingsenhancethehomethroughout.Alargesunroom offthegreatroomofferspeacefulgardenviews.Theupdatedkitchen includesaspaciousislandwithaprepsink,top-tierappliances,a mudroom,andrearentry.Thepalatialprimarysuitefeaturesalarge spa-likebath,andthreeadditionalbedroomsincludeprivateen-suites. Theenormousfinishedlowerlevelincludesasecondwetbar,multiple entertainmentspaces,anadditionalbedroomandbath,walk-out accesstothepoolarea,andabundantstorage.Additionalhighlights includea3-cargarageandadouble-widthdriveway.
Stunning,sophisticated&sleekbestdescribethisone-of-a-kind condominiuminClayton’spremierhigh-rise,thePlazainClayton. Completelyguttedtothestudsandathoughtfullyredesignedfloor plansparingNOexpense.2+bdrms,2.5bathswithmodern&tasteful finisheseverywhereyoulook.Elegantliving&diningroomsw/gas fireplace,24”x24”porcelaintileflooring,motorizedwindowtreatments, opensto2customizedbalconiesoverlookingthefountainatthe RitzCarlton.Epicurean’sdreamkitchenw/customcabinets,Viking appliances,140bottle,winechiller,generously-sizedcenterisland(9’6” x4’6”)w/seatingfor4/5openstofamilyroomwithadditionalfireplace, drybar&lestorage&built-ins.Cozystudyoffprimarysuiteisan idealhomeoffice,spa-likeprimarybathroomwithsoakingtub&rollinshower,customfitted&litclosetsthrough-out.2ndbdrmw/onsuite,bathcompletew/roll-inshower&customclosets.Architectural lightingplan.Everyinchofspacehasbeenutilizedtomaximize functionality&storage.Enjoylifeonagrandscale..onlyatthePlaza inClayton.24-hourdoorman,pool,healthclubwithtreatmentroom, dogpark,valetattendants,add’lstorage,clubroomw/fullkitchen&a lendinglibrary.SHowingbeginTuesday,June17th.
NEWPRICE
Safe Summer Fun
By Chelsea Del Rosso
Summer is in full swing, which means lightning bugs, popsicles and summer heat! This time of year, pools, lakes and rivers are often part of the fun. When water is involved, safety is very important for children of all ages – drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4 and is a significant cause of death and disability in older children, including teens.
It’s important to keep your kids safe this summer. Here are some tips I offer my patients and use with my own children:
Enroll your child in swim lessons. By their first birthday, children can begin to learn survival skills in the water. Starting at age 4, most children
are ready to engage in swim lessons and can be taught important survival skills like floating and treading water. Even if older kids haven’t mastered these water survival skills yet, enroll them in a class! Swim lessons can be a fun activity at all ages.
When children are swimming, always assign an adult to watch them – regardless of whether or not there is a lifeguard on duty. Supervising adults should not be distracted by phones, alcohol or other activities and should hand off responsibility to another non-distracted
adult when they need to take breaks. For young children or older children who are not confident swimmers, an adult with good swimming skills should always be in the water within arm’s reach.
Wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket when in or near natural bodies of water, including when on boats or other watercraft, regardless of swimming ability. Natural bodies of water can be unpredictable with currents and undertows, so it’s very important for even strong swimmers to wear a life jacket to prevent accidental drownings. Pay attention to any warning signs posted about swimming dangers at rivers and lakes. Some in our area are not safe for swimming.
Remove water hazards from your home and put barriers around any pools or ponds you have. Many drowning events happen outside of “swim times,” so having a physical barrier such as a four-sided, 4-foot-tall fence around pools and alarms on doors leading to the outside can prevent young children from getting to water when they are unsupervised.
If you have any questions about water safety or specific concerns about your child’s well-being in the water, your pediatrician or family doctor is a great resource. Healthychildren.org, the parenting website powered by the American Academy of Pediatrics, has up-to-date information about water safety and many other child health topics. Have a fun and safe summer in the water!
Dr. Chelsea Del Rosso is a Mercy Kids pediatrician serving families in the Creve Coeur area.
Art in Action
Aonce-overlooked lot near the Gateway Arch is now a dynamic example of sustainable city building, thanks to Pocketparks. This local nonprofit is known for transforming underutilized urban space into places residents will actually benefit from.
The Laclede’s Landing Active Art Park and Disc Golf Putting Course is Pocketparks’ sixth project in the city. Each park is a blend of public art, community connection and eco-friendly design, and Laclede’s Landing Active Art Park is no exception. The space is filled with flower beds to help pollinators, volunteer-built benches, a disc golf course and some intriguing sculptures that double as obstacles for said
course. Built from repurposed bike parts, these whimsical structures were crafted by STL Artworks, a nonprofit that pays local youth for art commissions. Each sculpture brings an element of sustainability to the space by creatively reusing materials that may have otherwise ended up in a landfill. Keeping with the theme, benches and barriers in the park were constructed using historic architectural columns.
When Pocketparks commits to transforming a space, they’re not messing around. As part of its “Overnight Placemaking” initiative, more than 120 volunteers worked together to paint, plant and assemble structures to complete the park’s installation in mere hours. This efficient approach highlights Pocketparks’ commitment to low-impact, high-reward development.
“This park embodies what we’re all about – art, activity and opportunity,” Pocketparks president and founder Samantha Smugala said in a release. “To design and build a park in this historic neighborhood next to the Gateway Arch is a dream come true.”
Commissioned by the Laclede’s Landing Neighborhood Association and Missouri Main Street Connection, the project also received support from organizations like Square, Cash App and Greater St. Louis Inc. These partnerships reflect a growing interest in using green space as a tool for economic development and environmental resilience.
Though small in size, Pocketparks installations offer lasting benefits: improved air quality, increased safety and renewed community pride. By transforming unused corners into creative, functional and sustainable public spaces, Pocketparks is helping St. Louis build a greener, more connected future.
Pocketparks, pocketparksstl.com
By Charlotte Renner > Photos by Robert Cohen, courtesy of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch
Imagination Is Everything
Aquote attributed to Albert Einstein reads: “Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited to all we now know and understand, while imagination embraces the entire world, stimulating progress, giving birth to evolution.”
Einstein’s concept holds true in early childhood learning, as imagination inspires cognitive, emotional and social growth. Creating an atmosphere that celebrates discovery learning is key to engaging children’s imaginations, and new ways of thinking must be nurtured if we hope to raise a generation that can envision creative solutions to advancing issues.
This month, Ready Readers recommends a story that awakens imaginations, bringing to life every avid reader’s dream: falling into the pages of your favorite book to live the story firsthand. Author Grace Lin and illustrator Kate Messner invite children and parents to dream together in “Once Upon a Book.”
Young Alice, grumpily stomping through the house on a dreary day, sees an open book that, intriguingly, seems to call her name. The first page begins, “Once upon a time, there was a girl. She went to a place
By Sheila Oliveri
alive with colors, where even the morning dew was warm.” The brightly hued tropical birds featured in the accompanying illustration emerge from the photo and invite Alice into the story. Now a part of the action, Alice continues reading perched high in a tree, surrounded by vividly lush rainforest flora and fauna. When rain begins to fall, Alice turns the pages and finds herself transported first to the desert, then under the sea, soaring through the clouds into outer space, and more, until our youthful voyager imagines herself back home. Author Lin offers a blueprint ripe with illustrative possibilities, providing a literary path through which Messner’s lush, flamboyant illustrations breathe life. Invite your child to experience the magic with you as you enjoy “Once Upon a Book” together, and expand the discussion by identifying which book each of you would most like to experience as an insider.
Ready Readers, a St. Louis early literacy nonprofit, brings the joy and power of literacy to more than 16,000 preschool-aged children from economically suppressed areas of our community. Visit readyreaders.org to learn how you can get involved.
heinvitingfrontporchsetsthetoneforthisimmaculatelyupdatedhome!The mainfloorboastsanopenfloorplanwithtwoseparategatheringspaceseach withagasfireplace,aprivateoffice,achef’sdelightkitchen,adiningarea,a mud/laundryroomwithaccesstothethree-cargarage,plusaprimarysuite,two additionalbedroomsandanotherfullbathroom.Offthekitchen/greatroomisan amazingscreenedporchwithstairsdowntothepatioarea.Thelowerlevelofferstwo bedrooms,afullbathroom,expansivelivingareaswithathirdfireplace,awetbar, andanabundantamountofstorageincludingalargeclosetthatispreppedforfinal plumbingforanadditionalfullbathroomandmultiplewaystoaccessthepatio.The rearyardisaprivateoasis!
Image supplied
BOUND Germany
By Drew Gieseke > Photos supplied
Two Kirkwood High School juniors will spend their summer breaks in Germany after being selected by highly competitive national programs recognizing excellence in German studies. The opportunities represent launching pads for two of the brightest German language students in the metro area.
In April 2025, James Bricker was awarded a full academic year scholarship through the CongressBundestag Youth Exchange program. Co-funded and managed by the U.S. and German governments, CBYX offers 300 scholarships annually to American high school students, recent graduates in vocational fields and young professionals.
“I first heard about the CBYX program from my German teacher,” Bricker says. “He offhandedly mentioned a list of German [study] abroad programs, and this was the first one I looked into.”
Bricker will spend the 2025-26 school year living with a German host family and attending local high school. In addition to immersive learning, participants the unique opportunity to visit Germany’s historic Reichstag building and attend a reception hosted by the U.S. Embassy in Berlin, located near the iconic Brandenburg Gate.
I hope this experience will double down my passion to go into government and maybe broaden both my cultural horizons andconnections.
–JAMeS BRICKeR
“I was inspired to learn German after my older brother mapped out our entire family tree and showed we had some fairly recent ancestors from Germany,” Bricker says. The application process was rigorous. The first step required students to submit five short essays and a letter to a host family, obtain two letters of recommendation and submit a copy of their transcript. The semifinalist phase included interviews and other required materials.
Bricker looked into similar programs before settling on CBYX, but found prices prohibitive. The scholar found the right fit with CBYX thanks to the possibilities it offered beyond high school.
“I hope this experience will double down my passion to go into government and maybe broaden both my cultural horizons and connections,” Bricker says. “In the end, I just want to see the culture and feel the experience of living in a foreign country.”
Likewise, Althea Althauser earned an allexpenses-paid summer study trip to Germany after scoring in the top 10% on the 2025 National German Exam. Selected as a national winner, Althauser completed a competitive application process, which included writing essays in German and English and an interview with a panel of educators.
“I’ve taken a National German exam every year for the past four years, so I’ve had a lot of time to prepare for success,” Althauser says. “This is not the first year that I’ve scored in the top 10% on this exam, but it is the first year that I knew I would be able to take a three-week trip to Germany.”
Althauser is one of only 37 students in the country to receive the honor, which is sponsored by the German government’s Pedagogical Exchange Service. During her summer abroad, Althauser will participate in a two-week homestay with a German family, attend school alongside her host sibling and explore regional cultural sites. The program is designed to build fluency, confidence and cultural understanding among young language learners.
James Bricker
Althea Althauser
Highlightsinclude:
•Gourmetkitchenwith42” cabinets,quartzcountertops &stainlessappliances
• Spaciousfamilyroomwith36”gasfireplace&custommantle
•Formaldiningroomwithwainscoting
•Primarysuitewithcofferedceiling,2walk-inclosets&spa-stylebath
• CustomLVPflooring,crownmolding&5¼”baseboardsthroughout
• Built-incubbies,2nd-floorlaundry,zonedHVAC
• 9'ceilingsonmainfloor&foundation
•2-cargarage&largepatioonagreatlot
ArareArts&Crafts-styletreasureintheheartofthe covetedParkviewcommunity, this4-bedroom,3-bathhome isatrueurbanoasis. Richwithcharacterandthoughtfully updated,thishomebeautifullyblendshistoriccharmwith moderncomfort.Enjoynewersystems,anupdatedkitchen andbathrooms,acozygasfireplace,originalstainedglass, andgleaminghardwoodfloorsthroughout.Frommorning coffeeonthefrontporchoverlookingtheparktoevening wineinyourscreened-inbackporch,everycornerinvites relaxationandconnection.Thebackyardpooloffersa refreshingretreatonwarmsummerdays.Withwalkable accesstoForestPark,WashU,andsomeofSt.Louis’best dining,thishomeisperfectlysituatedwithinadynamic,social neighborhood.Parkview’sactivecommunityhostseverything fromconcertsandcook-offstocarriageridesandholiday gatherings creatingatrulyone-of-a-kindplacetocallhome.
•Bonus:6-ftprivacyfenceincludedwithcontractacceptedbyJune16
SUNSETDesert
By Nancy Robinson > Photos supplied
Abstract patterns in muted colors evoke a desert sky at sunset.
The Aria collection features a harmonious blend of watercolor shades with a captivating ombre effect that adds depth and dimension to your table setting. The design is available as a 15-by-90-inch runner and as a set of four 22-inch napkins, all crafted of a cotton, polyester and linen blend. (bodrumlinens.com)
The hand-blown Tortecollo bud vase features a millefiori pattern in a time-honored Venetian style that adds a dash of pizzaz to table settings and home décor. Available in various colors, patterns and sizes. (abigails.net)
This Aztec-inspired pillow in the autumn colorway is designed with a symphony of soft colors brought to life by intricate embroidered stitching. It is 14-by-20 inches. The pattern is featured on the front and back. (oncloud9.com)
ADULTS ALLOWED
By Andrea Smith > Photos by Alise O’Brien
When you think playroom, you might think messy, unsophisticated, and maybe even unnecessary – especially if you don’t live with little kids. But for this St. Louis-area homeowner with more than a dozen grandchildren, having a thoughtfully designed space for kids just made sense.
St. Louis-based interior designer Kelly Johnson of Kelly Johnson Design saw potential for her client’s lower level to become a bright playroom and craft room that felt functional even when kids weren’t around. “I think the most important thing when designing a playroom is to build in flexibility so that it can serve other functions,” Johnson says. “It can evolve over time as the children grow and how they play changes.”
First things first: storage. Built-in cabinets and shelving by Alspaugh Kitchen and Bath, a St. Louis-area design partner, add value (and sanity) for those wanting to keep toys and craft supplies organized and out of sight. Baskets provide texture and contrast while being a practical solution. “The design also includes a counter-height table on casters that can be turned and stored the long way against the wall when the children need more floor space for play,” Johnson says.
Johnson notes that the cork flooring helps dampen noise in the room, plus it’s easy to clean and comfortable to sit on. Aesthetically, genderneutral décor makes the room inviting to all. Personal art on the walls include the grandchildren’s handprints and footprints, and there’s a magnetic chalkboard and a corkboard that allow the kids to interchange their own artwork on display.
“I was delighted to find the fun multi-colored dotted wallpaper. We pulled all of the colors out of the paper when selecting the baskets and bean bags and then painted the end wall and ceiling vibrant shades of blue,” Johnson says. “Aside from the built-in playhouse, this room
can be easily adapted as a hang-out space for teens with some minor cosmetic tweaks.”
The corner house with a play kitchen, table and chairs is especially attractive to little ones, so the homeowners agreed it would be worthwhile. And when kids aren’t around, the room remains useful for adults with its gift-wrapping station and large table for a myriad of projects, like scrapbooking or putting puzzles together.
“It is also really great to have a place where adults can interact with children without worrying about messes and spills, or even to have a dedicated spot for family board games,” Johnson adds. “Having nine grandchildren myself, I wish I had a room like this in my home.”
Kelly Johnson Design, 11622 Page Service Drive, Suite 101, St. Louis, 314-733-5877, kellyjohnsondesign.com
JuneGalleryAuction
friday , june 20 at 10 am saturday, june 2 1 at 10 am
Pre vi ew sunday,june 15 , 12—4 continuing,june 16— june19 , 10—5 previewpartyjune 19,5—7
SiegfriedReinhardt, RegalFigure,1952, oilonmasonite, 38 x 12inches
a two-dayauctionfeaturingpropertyfromtheestateofdianaeley,st.louis,mo;localandregionalestatesandcorporatecollections;finejewelryhighlightedby a6 caratdiamond,micromosaicsandcameos;couture;artnouveauandartdecodecorativeart;bronzeandmarblesculptures;severalpaintingsbysiegfriedreinhardt; westernpaintings;vintageperfumebottles;contemporaryprints;continentalandamericanpaintings;mineralsandfossils;gardenaccessories;asianart;sterling silver;southwestpotteryandweavings;antiquetomcmfurniture;stamps;andcollector'shandwovenrugs
KimCarneyisconsistentlyrankedasoneofthetopagents ofColdwellBankerPremierGroupandislistedamongthetop REALTORSinSt.Louis.Carneyspecializesinthehigh-endreal estatemarketandpridesherselfonherproactiveapproach. Unlikeothertopagents,shedoesnotstickasigninyouryard and“hope”thatyourhomewillsell;shecreatesatop-notch advertisingandmarketingplanthatcannotbebeaten.Sheoffers thenecessaryexperienceandsavvynegotiationskillstogether clientswhattheywant.
JewelryBuyingEvent
GetPaidCash!!
BuyingGold,Silver,Diamonds, CostumeJewelry,Watches&Coins
St.LouisEstateBuyers WestCountyMall nearJCPenney’s
Friday,June27,11AM-4PM Saturday,June28,11AM-4PM
Wealsobuyantiques,artwork,paintings,swords, china,crystal,andothercollectibles&rarities.
Ifyouwouldpreferaprivateorinhome appointment,call314-691-2888.
DESIGNDIGEST
>MOSBYBUILDINGARTS
Bringingout the Beauty ofanOldHome WITHMOSBY BUILDINGARTS
SponsoredcontentbyAndrewSchneider,BrandAve.Studioscontributingwriter >PhotoscourtesyofMosbyBuildingArts
WhenaSt.Louiscouplediscovered adatedpropertyonabeautiful golfcourse–completewitha four-cargarage–theyknewthey’d foundsomethingspecial.They hadnoideathenjust how muchworkit wouldtake tomake ittheir own.
That’swhereMosbyBuildingArtscamein.
“Thehousehadgreatbones,butitneeded acompleteoverhaultoreflecttheirstyle andlifestyle,”saysBradHagan,seniorhome consultant.“Theylovetheoutdoors,theylove entertaining,andtheywantedspacesthatfelt personalandfunctional.”
Ratherthanaroom-by-roomrenovation, theprojectwastreatedasawhole-home transformation.Fromreworkingatighthallway intoaninvitingcorridortocoordinatingexterior upgradesandpoolintegration,Mosbyhelped thehomeownerssee–andbringtolife–thefull potentialoftheirnewspace.
“Theseoldhousesenduptellinguswhatthey wanttodo,”Haganexplains.“Ourjobistolisten–andthenmakeitwork.”
Onestandoutopportunity?Thehome’s sweepingviewsoftheadjacentgolfcourse,allthe wayuptotheclubhouse.“Theyhadthisstunning view,”Hagansays.“Wewidenedthekitchen windowandmadesureeverymajorspacetook advantage.Youcouldn’taskforabettersetup.”
SeniordesignerShannonCrossledthe remodel,blendingexistingarchitecturaldetails withupdatedfinishes.“Itwasabouthonoring whatdrewthemtothehome–likethemoldings andceilingbeams–whilemodernizingthespace tofeelelegantandtimeless,”saysCross.
Keydesignelementsincludedareimagined kitchen,astrikingmetallicbacksplashinthe diningbarandthe revivalof a vintage early-1900s
barinthelowerlevel.“Thatbar wasnonnegotiable forthem,” saidHagan.“We protecteditthe entire project.”
ForCross,theprojectwasatruecollaboration. “Thiswaslikebuildingahomefromtheinside out,”shesays.“Weworkedthrougheverydetail withtheclients.Seeingtheirjoywhenitallcame togetheristhemostfulfillingpartofmyjob.”
Intheend,Mosby’s work exceededthe couple’s everyexpectation.
“It’sabouthelpingpeopleshapetheirspaceand maketherightinvestments,”Haganconcludes. “Nowthishomefitswhotheyare.”
FormoreinformationonMosbyBuildingArts, pleasevisitcallmosby.com.
MosbyBuildingArts,115W.ArgonneDrive, Kirkwood,314-909-1800,callmosby.com
WHO’SWHOIN REALESTATE 2025
MaryBethBenes > ColdwellB anker Realty-G undaker
KimCarney > ColdwellB ankerPremierGroup
TalenaFloyd > The Ryan Tradition
TheGellman Team >ExP Realty
Krissy Hof >B erkshire Hathawa y Homeservices AllianceRealEstate
Mike Huggins > Laura McCarthy RealEstate
TeddyJ.Johnlikes > ColdwellB anker Realty-G undaker
ChrisKlages > GladysManion
TheMcClelland Team >Re/Max Toda y
KatieMcLaughlin > Laura McCarthy RealEstate
KeithR.Manzer > GladysManion
LeslieA.Owens > Laura McCarthy RealEstate
Rossini RealEstateGroup > Laura McCarthy RealEstate
John Ryan > The Ryan Tradition
ElizabethSt.Cin > Laura McCarthy RealEstate
AlyssaSuntrup > GladysManion
ByMaggiePeters
MaryBethBenes
COLDWELLBANKERREALTY–GUNDAKER
Forsellersandbuyersseekingthemostknowledgeable, experiencedandprofessionalagentintheGreaterSt.Louis Metroregion,theirsearchoftenendsatColdwellBankerRealty –GundakerandMaryBethBenes.TheNo.1agentwithColdwell BankerRealty–Gundakerwithmorethan$1billionintotalsales inhercareer,Benesisrankedinthetopquarterpercentofall agentsintheSt.Louismetroarea.
Licensedsince2003,shecreatesastress-freeprocessforher clientswhileplacingtheminthebestposition,whethertheyare buyingorselling.Sheispraisedforworkingonbehalfofher client’sinterests,aswellasbeingactivelyinvolvedduringall priceandcontractnegotiations.Benesispoisedtoserveyouwith resultsthatsimplycan’tbematched.
314-707-7761,marybeth.benes@cbgundaker.com
THEBENESGROUP.COM
KimCarneyisconsistentlyrankedasoneofthetopagents ofColdwellBankerPremierGroupandislistedamongthetop REALTORSinSt.Louis.Carneyspecializesinthehigh-endreal estatemarketandpridesherselfonherproactiveapproach. Unlikeothertopagents,shedoesnotstickasigninyouryard and“hope”thatyourhomewillsell;shecreatesatop-notch advertisingandmarketingplanthatcannotbebeaten.Sheoffers thenecessaryexperienceandsavvynegotiationskillstogether clientswhattheywant.
314-422-7449
KIMCARNEY.CBPHOMES.COM
KimCarney
COLDWELLBANKERPREMIERGROUP
TalenaFloyd THERYANTRADITION
TalenaFloydisaSt.Louisnativeandaseasonedrealestate professional.Sinceenteringtheindustryin2008,shehasbuilta reputationforexcellence,earningthetrustofhigh-profileclients throughmeticulousattentiontodetailandunparalleledservice. Knownforherdiscretionanddedication,sheconsistently exceedsexpectations,makingheraninvaluableassetto TheRyanTradition.
Fornearlysixdecades,TheRyanTradition–foundedby AnneRyan,withalegacycontinuedbyJohnRyan–hassetthe standardinluxuryrealestate,achievingover$2.4billionin salessince1998,settingthebenchmarkforpremierproperty transactions.
314-471-2374
TALENA.FLOYD@CBREALTY.COM
TheGellmanTeam
MarkandNeilGellmanandtheirteamhavehelpedmore than5,500familiesachievetheirrealestategoalswitha5-star GoogleandZillowratingofover1,500-plusreviews.Usingproven systemsandstrategies,theteamcelebrated$2billionincareer salesin2024.TheGellmanTeamisunrivaledintheluxuryreal estatemarketinSt.Louis,alreadyselling21$1million-plushomes yeartodate.Theteamisproudtohaveserved270familiessofar thisyear.Thecompanyisguidedbyitsmissionstatementand 11corevalues,includingbuildingclientrelationshipsforlifeand givingbacktothecommunity.Theteamannuallysupportsover 90charities.
314-336-1991
THEGELLMANTEAM.COM
HeadshotbyMadelineCameron
PhotocourtesyofTalenaFloyd
KrissyHof
AproudSt.Louisnative,KrissyHofbringsauthenticity, warmth,andexpertisetoeveryrealestatejourney.She’sknown foruncoveringoff-marketopportunities,offeringhonest guidance,andhelpingclientsfeeltrulyathome–whetherthey’re newtotheareaorrediscoveringit.Withstrongsupportbehind herandabroadnetworkacrosstheregion,Hofmakeseverystep oftherealestateprocessfeelseamlessandpersonal.
314-691-4140(direct),314-872-6672(office) KRISSY.HOF@BHHSALL.COM
AsatopagentatLauraMcCarthyRealEstate,MikeHuggins hasdevelopedasuccessfulcareerintheSt.LouisRealEstate marketashehelpshisclients“OpenNewDoors”inacommunity wheretheycanthrive.Fromrepresentingafirst-timebuyerto helpingaclientdownsizefromalargerhome,Hugginscanmeet clientswheretheyareandskillfullynavigatetheinsandouts ofthesaleandpurchaseoftheirnexthome.Hefindssuccess throughhispersistenceineverynegotiation,attentiontodetail, anddiligenceinstayingcurrentonmarkettrends.
314-288-9157(direct),314-725-5100(office) mhuggins@lauramccarthy.com LAURAMCCARTHY.COM
MikeHuggins
PhotocourtesyofKrissyHof
TeddyJ.Johnlikes
COLDWELLBANKERREALTY–GUNDAKER
Hardworking,focusedandpossessingunwaveringattention todetail,TeddyJ.Johnlikesproudlyserveshomebuyersand sellersinSt.CharlesandSt.Louiscounties’mostsought-after communities.JohnlikeswasnamedtheNo.1ColdwellBanker agentinSt.CharlesCountyandisamemberoftheprestigious InternationalSocietyofExcellence,reservedforlessthan.25 percentofsalesassociatesworldwide.Healsoenjoysrecognition aspartoftheBenesGroup,theno.1RealEstateTeaminColdwell BankerRealty–Gundaker.TheBenesGroupofferspremium homestaging,top-tierprofessionalphotography,digitaland socialmediamarketingandprintadvertising.Johnlikes’service isalwayshands-onandispersonallytailoredtotheindividual needsofeachclient.
314-452-1885,teddy.johnlikes@cbgundaker.com THEBENESGROUP.COM
Withnearlyfiveyearsintherealestateindustryandover 100successfultransactions,ChristopherM.Klageshasfirmly establishedhimselfasatrustednameinluxuryrealestate. Havingclosedover$100millioninsales,Klagesblendsmarket expertisewithanunwaveringcommitmenttoclientsatisfaction.
Knownforhisintegrity,discretion,andpolished communication,hedeliversaseamlessexperiencefordiscerning buyersandsellersalike.Hisdeepunderstandingofmarket dynamics,refinednegotiationskills,andeyeforvaluemakehim apowerfuladvocateineverytransaction.
Klages’clientsvaluehisresponsive,detail-orientedapproach andhisdedicationtoachievingresultswithoutcompromising quality.Whethernavigatingthecomplexitiesofhigh-end propertyacquisitionsorcraftingmarketingstrategiesthatelevate listings,Klagesconsistentlyexceedsexpectations—raisingthebar forluxuryrepresentation.
314-445-8220,ChrisK@GladysManion.com
ChristopherM.Klages GLADYSMANION
TheMcClellandTeam
TheMcClellandTeamisranked7thoverallintheSt.Louis RegionbyRE/MAXInternational.MattMcClelland,Ginger Brinker,SarahSullentrupandRachelleElbertareawell-versed groupofrealestateprofessionalswithextensiveexperience intheWashington,Missouriareaandareknownfortheir creativemarketing.Ranking7thintheregionisatremendous accomplishmentandthisteamcontinuestoraisethebar. Theirofficeisconvenientlylocatedat1402WashingtonSquare.
636-390-8575
KatieMcLaughlinstandsoutastheepitomeofdedication andintegrity.Recognizedasthe#1agentatLauraMcCarthyand the2024topsingleagentinSt.Louis,McLaughlin’sapproachto realestateisdeeplypersonal–shetreatseachclientlikefamily, forgingrelationshipsthatlastwellbeyondtheclosingtable.With extensiveexperience,shesellshomesacrossallpricerangesand lovesworkingwithfirst-timehomebuyers.
Withareputationbuiltonunwaveringloyaltyandhonesty, McLaughlinhasconsistentlybeenatopperformer.Hersuccess isnotjustareflectionofherprofessionalacumenbutalsothe strongmentorshipofhermother,whohasbeenherguidinglight throughoutherjourney.
MclaughlinappreciatesLauraMcCarthy’sexceptional managementsupportwhichensuresthateveryclientreceives comprehensiveandattentiveservice.Reachoutforallyourreal estateneeds!
314-283-8444(direct),314-725-5100(office) LAURAMCCARTHY.COM
KatieMcLaughlin
LAURAMCCARTHYREALESTATE
KeithR.Manzer GLADYSMANION
Withover42yearsofexperienceintheSt.Louisrealestate market,KeithManzerisanamesynonymouswithresults, integrity,andexceptionalclientservice.Manzerhasconsistently rankedasatop-producingagentsince1983,earningaccolades suchastheno.1AgentatGladysManionin2020and2021,and leadingtheno.1Teaminboth2022and2023.Heisalsoaproud recipientoftheFive-StarServiceAwardtwelveyearsrunning (2014–2025),atestamenttohisdedicationtoclientsatisfaction. Hisprovenexpertisespanssomeoftheregion’smostsoughtafterneighborhoodsinthecentralcorridor.
Manzer’sresults-drivenmarketingstrategyisbackedbya highlycapableteam,includingafull-timebuyer’sagentanda dedicatedmarketing/socialmediamanager–ensuringthatevery listingreceivestailoredattentionandmaximumexposure.
Whetherbuyingorselling,youcantrustManzer’smarket knowledge,strategicinsight,andunparalleledservice.
314-609-3155 KEITHRMANZER.COM
LeslieA.Owens
Meet LeslieA.Owens, yourtrusted realestateagent! LeslieOwenshas beenoneofthetopagents every yearthatshehasbeenwithLaura McCarthy, offeringbothlocaland relocationservicestohundredsof clientsintheSt. Louisarea.Known forherenthusiasmandenergy, shebrings a personalized touch to everyinteraction,ensuringeachclient feelsspecialand valued.
“Each and everyoneof myclientsholds a specialplace in my heart,and I make it my missiontogive themanunforgettableandenjoyable experience,” LeslieOwenssays.Herdedicationis evidentinthetrusther clientsplace in her, often recommendinghertotheirlovedones –acomplimentthatfillsher withgratitude.
A long-time residentofOlivette,LeslieOwensenjoys theater, arts, museums, concerts,andtravel.Herdeep connectiontothe communityandher passion for realestatemake hertheperfectguide foranyonelookingtobuy orsell a homeinthearea.Whether you’re movinglocallyor fromafar,Leslie Owensis committedtomaking your realestatejourney smoothandsuccessful.
314-276-5858(direct),314-725-5100(office) leslie@leslieaowens.com LAURAMCCARTHY.COM
LAURAMCCARTHYREALESTATE
RossiniRealEstateGroup
AsatopproducinggroupwithLauraMcCarthy,AllieRossini andLaurenGillentinepridethemselvesonbeingaccessible, professional,trustworthy,anddependable.Inaddition,they valuekindness,integrityandhumor—bothpersonallyand professionally—andpromisetokeeptheirclients’needsat thetopoftheirpriorities,comfortablyguidingthemthrough theprocessofbuyingandsellingwhiledeliveringexceptional customerservicefromstarttofinish.Withmorethan30 combinedyearsofexperienceandover$366-plusmilliondollars’ worthofsoldproperties,RossiniRealEstateGroupgoesbeyond theusualexpectations!
314-303-2137(Rossini),314-210-8995(Gillentine),314-725-5100(office) LAURAMCCARTHY.COM,ROSSINIREALESTATE.COM
JohnRyan’sdedicationandexperienceover40yearshave earnedhimthetrustofbuyers,sellers,andfellowprofessionals. HehassecuredmanyofSt.Louis’mostsignificantsales, consistentlyleadingthemarketwithtopprices,averagesale price,andvolume.Hissuccessstemsfromexceptionalservice anddeepmarketexpertise.
Fornearlysixdecades,The Ryan Tradition –foundedbyAnne Ryan,with a legacycontinuedbyJohn Ryan – hassetthestandard inluxury realestate, achieving over$2.4 billioninsalessince 1998, settingthebenchmark forpremierpropertytransactions.
314-941-0572
JOHNRYAN@COLDWELLBANKER.COM
PhotocourtesyofLauraMcCarthyRealEstate
JohnRyan
PhotocourtesyofJohnRyan
ElizabethSt.Cin
LAURAMCCARTHYREALESTATE
Lookingforanexpertwhowillwalkyouthroughtheentire process,makestellarrecommendations,findorganizers,and pullallthepiecestogether?You’vefoundherinElizabethSt.Cin. ActivewithLauraMcCarthyRealEstateformorethan30years, St.Cinknowshouse-huntinginsideandout.Herjoyfulattitude makesheroneofthemostupliftingpeopleinthebusiness,and herdedicationtoserviceisinspiring.Clientsconnectwithher, warm,thorough,andthoughtfulpersonality.Alwaysachieving thebestresults,St.Cingiveseveryhousealiftwithhercareful attentiontodetail,dedication,andhands-onapproach.
314-412-4687(direct),314-725-5100(office) LAURAMCCARTHY.COM
AlyssaSuntruphasbeenGladysManion’shighest-grossing agentsince2022.ShewasUniversityCity’shighest-producing agentin2022,andsincethenhassetanewrecordforher brokeragewithover34milliondollarsinsales.Shehasexceeded over135millioninsalesinsevenyearsasaREALTOR.Whether developingamarketingstrategyforasellerorsettingouton apropertyhunt,shetakesprideinbeinghighlyeffectiveand efficientwhileprovidingunparalleledservice.
SuntrupresidesinUniversityCitywithherhusband, Chris,andthreesons,Blaise,Baron,andBishop.Sheisonthe Children’sHospitalboardandtrusteefortheMarylandTerrace neighborhood.Suntrupalsovolunteerswithherchildren’s schoolsandisamemberofOurLadyofLourdesParishin UniversityCity.
314-359-3568 ALYSSAS@GLADYSMANION.COM
HeadshotprovidedbyLauraMcCarthyRealEstate
AlyssaSuntrup GLADYSMANION
PhotocourtesyofGladysManion
Discover the peak of luxury living with this one-of-a-kind home, nestled on an exclusive street in the prestigious Bluffs of St. Albans, overlooking the scenic hillside and directly situated overlooking the golf course. Completely reimagined in 2024-2025, this professionally and tastefully designed, fully customized home has many recent enhancements, making it truly turn-key. Every detail has been meticulously curated for elevated lavish living, timeless design, and modern comfort. Featuring a new customized kitchen with highend appliances – including Sub-Zero and Wolf. The primary suite is also exquisite with a luxurious, spa-like bathroom. The lower level is a showstopper with an incredible design and premium finish. This home is a perfect blend of sophistication, functionality, and tranquility. Ideal for those seeking a refined lifestyle with the privacy of a gated enclave and top-tier golf community. Experience the pinnacle of St. Albans living!
This seven bedroom, six full bathroom and two half bathroom home in St. Albans is listed for $3.95 million.
QUAIL RIDGE • ST. ALBANS
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349Conway HillRoad
TownandCountry•$3,495,000•8,947sqft•5Bedrooms•5Full&2HalfBaths
Nestled on an exclusive gated lane, this exceptional DeShetler-built estate has been extensively reimagined to meet the highest standards of todays lifestyle. Set on over one acre of meticulously landscaped grounds, the residence offers more than 8,900 square feet of exquisitely finished living space, showcasing refined craftsmanship and timeless architectural detail. A grand marble foyer welcomes you into interiors defined by wide-plank French oak flooring, soaring 12-foot ceilings, intricate moldings, and elegant arched passageways. The richly appointed study features bespoke paneling and custom built-ins, while the formal dining room sets the stage for sophisticated entertaining. At the heart of the home, the expansive great room impresses with a beamed cathedral ceiling, striking fireplace, and Palladian windows that frame views of the private grounds. Designed by Marc-Christian, the kitchen is a masterpiece equipped with Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, a sculptural marble hood, double-stacked marble countertops, a butler’s pantry, and a wet bar. The main-level primary suite is a sanctuary, featuring a coffered ceiling, marble fireplace, a couture-caliber closet with secondary laundry, and a spa-inspired marble bath with freestanding tub and multi-head shower. Two additional en-suite bedrooms complete the main level. The upper level offers a fourth bedroom and a generously sized bonus room, ideal for additional living or work-from-home space. The walk-out lower level is designed for both relaxation and recreation, featuring a full bar, game room, fitness studio, media room, fifth bedroom,andfullbath. Outdoors, enjoyresort-stylelivingwith a free-fromsaltwaterprivate pool, outdoor kitchen, and expansiveterrace ideal forentertaining. A four-car garage completes this extraordinary offering in one of the area’s most prestigious gated enclaves.
100 EnclaveTerraceCour t
WeldonSpring•$995,000 3Bedrooms•2Full&1HalfBath
1155 Whitmoor Drive
WeldonSpring•$949,000 4Bedrooms•4Full&1HalfBaths
4388 Austin Pass Drive
SaintCharles•$1,429,000 5Bedrooms•4Full&1HalfBaths
11 LakeForest Cour tW.
SaintCharles•$2,195,000 7Bedrooms•5Full&2HalfBaths
883 Amersham Drive
Town&Country•$899,000 4Bedrooms•2Full&2HalfBaths
5360 TowerHill Cour t
WeldonSpring•$1,249,000 5Bedrooms•4Full&1HalfBaths
776Hillenkamp Drive
WeldonSpring • $1,269,000 4Bedrooms•3Full&1HalfBaths
4228 GeorgianOaks Drive
SaintCharles•$699,000 4Bedrooms•4Full&1HalfBaths
152 WestleighManorDrive
Wentzville•$1,395,000 6Bedrooms•4Full&1HalfBaths
150 WestleighManorDrive
Wentzville•$1,295,000 4Bedrooms•3Full&2HalfBaths
5337 Enchanted Drive
WeldonSpring•$1,295,000 5Bedrooms•4Full1HalfBaths
2Pearview Cour t
SaintPeters•$789,000 4Bedrooms•3Full&2HalfBaths
2969 Greenleaf Drive
SaintCharles•$899,000 5Bedrooms•5Full&1HalfBaths
5316 Enchanted Cour t
WeldonSpring•$1,239,000 4Bedrooms•4Full&1HalfBaths
M I N G S O O N
5425IndependenceDrive
WeldonSpring•$4,995,000•10.7Acres 4Bedrooms•3Full&1HalfBaths
FASHIONS
By Katie Yeadon > Photos supplied
Start planning and shopping for your patriotic looks early this year.
Lizzie Fortunato Multi Red Sea necklace, $295, Tuckernuck (tnuck.com)
Rust Suede Jamie espadrille flats, $185, Tuckernuck
Tretorn sneaker, $85, DSW (dsw.com)
Pink and red stripe Pique Holmes boyfriend polo, $128, Tuckernuck
L’Agence cropped tweed jacket, $550, Vie Boutique
Flutter-sleeve button-up shirt, $90, J.Crew Plaza Frontenac
Red cropped puff sleeve Americana sweater, $198, Tuckernuck
Veronica Beard denim short, $228, Hearth & Soul (hearthandsoul.com)
Ganni bucket hat, $135, Hearth & Soul
Raffia Bucket bag, $198, J.Crew Plaza Frontenac
Blue watercolor Annette midi dress, $188, Tuckernuck
Daisy print dress, $168, J.Crew Plaza Frontenac
Garçon classic shirt in striped linen, $118, J.Crew Plaza Frontenac (jcrew.com)
Americana Lee sweater, $148, Tuckernuck
L’Agence Blanca sequin cardigan, $425, Vie Boutique St. Louis (viestlouis.com)
Party Portraits
CHELSEA TAMPLIN
Chelsea Tamplin’s work starts and ends with a Polaroid photo, giving her the opportunity to create distinct features in her watercolor paintings without keeping people from enjoying the party. She works throughout the event but doesn’t mind taking work home if needed to finish the promised portraits. Packages start at up to 100 guests, but she’s open to discussing an hourly rate. Once completed, guests take home both their painted and Polaroid portraits.
Fine Art of Eden, fineartofeden.com
ELYSIA KING WITH CLOUD STUDIO
Cloud Studio unites artists across the U.S. who offer live event painting and watercolor portraits and provides a platform for connecting with the artist of your choice.
King strives to capture a moment in time by incorporating movement whenever possible. For example, painting a playful flower girl mid-twirl makes for a more lively portrait. “I’m working really fast, and these are just minimal sketch lines, but it’s amazing how even with just a few gestural lines, you can still capture a guest’s personality,” she says.
Cloud Studio, cloudstudioagency.com,
Elysia King, elysiaking.art
By Andrea Smith
You might have seen videos of an artist at work during a wedding reception, painting a ballroom or barn with a newlywed couple at the center. But did you know live artists can create custom gifts for event guests too?
Event portrait artists can conceive and create a new work in less than 10 minutes, drawing and painting on thick 5-by-7-inch watercolor paper and then packaging it in a protective sleeve for safe travel. Most are hired by the hour, and they can recruit additional artists to handle larger guest counts. Whether you’re planning a wedding, corporate event or another celebration, these artists are equipped to offer attendees a party favor (and experience) that they’ll truly treasure.
JESSICA SEBOK WITH CLOUD STUDIO
Jessica Sebok recreates an impressive amount of detail using Micron pens, Copic markers and watercolors. “I hear a lot that my guest portraits are proportionally on point and that my attention to the hair and personality of each subject is appreciated,” Sebok says. “I love seeing guests come to the table wide-eyed and proclaiming, ‘Oh, that’s John and Rachel! Look, you got her tattoo and everything! Oh, and there’s my aunt!’”
Jessica Sebok, jessicasebok.com
LAURA THOMSON
“Expressive” and “whimsical” are the words Laura Thomson uses to describe her portraiture, and she sneaks in hints of each guest’s posture and personality. “One of my favorite parts of this work is seeing guests’ reactions: the surprise, the smiles, and sometimes even happy tears,” she shares. “There’s something incredibly special about giving each person a custom, handpainted portrait – it’s a personal piece of art they’ll cherish long after the celebration ends.”
Laura, the Wedding Painter, lauratheweddingpainter.com
MICHELLE ROSS
“My style is fashion sketch-based with movement and flow in each piece,” Michelle Ross says. “It’s energetic and airy at the same time.” She offers packages with a limited number of VIP tickets, like for bridal party members or guests of honor, to ensure that those with a more active role in a large event can jump the line and have a portrait done whenever they’re free.
Michelle Ross Creative, michellerosscreative.com
Photo courtesy of Laura, the Wedding Painter Photo courtesy of Jessica Sebok
Photo courtesy of Michelle Ross
Photo courtesy of Fine Art of eden
Photo courtesy of elysia King
OH LONDON
At Oh London, visitors will find much more than what the Britishthemed name implies. The new large-scale restaurant comes from the couple behind modern Indian eatery Black Salt, featuring a lively dining experience that combines English pub fare with American comfort classics, internationally inspired specials that draw from the team’s worldly backgrounds and, notably, an extensive wall-to-wall Sunday brunch buffet. The concept debuted in February.
Co-owners Raj Pandey and his wife, Shweta, have already made their mark on the St. Louis dining scene with two locations of Black Salt, which they coown with Sanjiv Shekhar. Now, the couple have independently embarked on their largest brickand-mortar venture yet. In the 11,300-square-foot space that once housed The Reserve Restaurant & Lounge, Oh London offers an upscale, familyfriendly atmosphere that aims to offer a little something for everyone.
The couple strives to keep things casual at Oh London while providing some elevated fine dining options. “Something that I’ve noticed in London is that international world-class cuisine from multiethnic cultures are so popular there. Bringing that idea over here, along with British food, was something I really desired to do,” Raj says.
experience includes cooking at The Leela Palace, a five-star hotel in Jaipur.
Together, the team has developed a diverse set of recipes for lunch and dinner, including casual items like a housemade veggie burger as well as upscale classics such as skirt angus steak with housemade mashed and chimichurri sauce. British signatures include golden fried fish and chips, authentic bangers and mash made with imported sausages, and Little Bird’s Nest, or Scotch eggs made up of seasoned ground beef and mustard sauce.
To carry out this vision, Pandey brought on worldly chefs Brigithe Gilardi and Pushwinder Kumar to develop the menu. Gilardi, who began her career studying at Le Cordon Bleu in St. Peters, ran kitchens for the past 15 years at area businesses including Top Golf and Drake’s. Kumar’s culinary
Rotating international specials that riff on Gilardi and Kumar’s Peruvian and Indian backgrounds, respectively, include lomo saltado and chicken tikka masala lunch bowls. One of Pandey’s favorite menu items is lamb in cilantro sauce – a nod to Black Salt’s signature dish, Zafrani lamb.
An all-you-can eat brunch offers a plethora of options fit for a king, available every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with fresh-baked breads, soups, a cold station, a hot savory station, an omelet station, a carving and assorted housemade pastries. “It’s very elaborate and inspired by five-star hotels in international countries,” Raj says. “There’s a huge spread of British and American-style foods and desserts, and everything is made and cooked in-house.”
The full bar, correspondingly, comes fully stocked to fuel a royally good time, with 20 taps to choose from in addition to a selection of canned and bottled beers, wine and craft cocktails. “You can get more of the British types of liquor along with American classics,” Raj says. “Our cocktails are very British. The Oh London Fashioned features house barrel-aged whiskey.”
Although Oh London might seem like a drastically different take on what Raj and his Shweta have accomplished so far in such a short time, their underlying commitment to providing something special for St. Louis remains the same. “I didn’t want to take a cookie cutter approach to the restaurants. I wanted to do something outside of the mundane,” Raj says. “Oh London is something Shweta and I wanted to try that was out of the ordinary. So far, the response has been very good, the place is growing, and we feel very excited about how we are bringing this space up to speed and offering some flair to the area.”
Oh London is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Oh London, 11411 Olive Blvd., Creve Coeur, 314-296-4455, ohlondonusa.com
Story and photos by Mabel Suen
WeproudlyserveolderadultsinthegreaterSt.Louis areaatthreeluxuriousGrandelocationsandaround thecountryatothercelebratedBridgeSeniorLiving communities.Findouthowassistedlivingandmemory careprovidedbyatrustednameinseniorlivingcan providetheutmostincomfortandpeaceofmind.
atourorregisterforanupcomingevent.
“Fun and Games” Kickoff Event
It was a wonderful May evening as guests gathered at Westport Social House for the 2025 kickoff of the Old Newsboys “Fun and Games” event. Attendees enjoyed food and cocktails while playing games like basketball, shuffleboard, bocce and more. The event marked an exciting start to this year’s campaign, helping generate momentum for the organization’s ongoing mission. Since its founding in 1957, Old Newsboys has steadily expanded its impact, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars to support children’s charities throughout the St. Louis area through community events and youth-focused initiatives.
The 2025 Old Newsboys Campaign for Kids is chaired by Bob, Steve, Brian and Natalie O’Loughlin.
Visit laduenews.com to see more photos from this event >
[This means a lot to me] because we’re raising money for kids. [Folks] might not know what Old Newsboys is ... but it [involves] business people going out and raising money to give back to the community – we support almost 200 local charities here; we’re the charity for smaller charities. We give out grants of up to $3,000, so if they don’t have bicycles for the playground, or they need new mattresses or musical instruments, [we can help them]. So that gets you right here at the heart of it.
– Jay Shields,
Steve, natalie, Bob and Brian O’Loughlin
Patrick and Susan Hensley, Justin and Kacey Heutel, Scott and Marci niekamp
Scott niekamp
Jay and Maria Shields
Story and photos by Bryan Schraier
Steve and Sherri Newstead, Greg and Missy Hill
Nick Lamb, Jay Shields
ellen Alper
Old Newsboys “Fun and Games” kickoff event
Richard Jackson, Bill and Bob Meyer
Jackie Brock, Mary Ann Wagner
Crystal O’Loughlin, Debbie Goss
WHEREHISTORY LIVESON
ByAmandaDahl >PhotosbyChristinaKling-Garrett
TheOldCourthouse changedthetrajectoryofthe U.S. – andit stillhaspowerfullessonstoimpart. We takeyouinsideits multi-million-dollar renovation.
StandinginthecenterofdowntownSt. Louis,theArchmagnificentlylooming likeapatronsaintabove,theimposing OldCourthouseservedastheseat ofciviljusticeinSt.Louisformostof the19thcentury.Today,itspurposereaches newheights.
“Thisbuildingisrichwithhistory,”says RyanMcClure,executivedirectorattheGateway ArchParkFoundation.“It’srichwithstoriesof courageandhopeandpointsintimewhereour legalsysteminourcountryfaileditspeople. Weneedtocontinuetotellthesestories…to futuregenerations.”
Inthefinalpartofthe$380million CityArchRiverproject,whichoversawmassive renovationstotheGatewayArchNationalPark, theOldCourthousehasbeenmodernizedto betterbringtolightthelessonsthispieceof Americanhistoryhastorelay.
LANDMARKCASESTRIEDATTHE OLDCOURTHOUSE
ElevatedtotheU.S.SupremeCourt,two enslavedSt.Louisanssuedfortheirfreedom–andweredenieditbasedontheissueofproperty rights.ThisrulinghastenedthestartoftheCivil War,foreveralteringAmerica.
“TheDredandHarrietScottcasereally changedthecourseofournation,sothatisone oftheprimaryreasonsthisbuildingandthepark isprotected,”McCluredetails,noting“therewere 300otherfreedomsuitsthatwerefiledinthis buildingbyenslavedindividuals.”
St.Louiswasalsothesiteof“thefirstsuffrage caseinAmerica,”McCluresays.VirginiaMinor suedfortherighttovote,aneffortsupported bytheNationalAmericanWomanSuffrage Association.Sheservedasthefirstpresident andfoundingmemberoftheWomanSuffrage AssociationofMissouri.
McClureadds:“VirginiaMinorfiledthatsuit knowingfullwellthatshewouldlose.Shealso knewthatsomebodyhadtostartthefight–and thatfightstartedrighthere.”
Thesepivotalmomentsinthenation’shistory stillhaveknowledgetoimpart,aspresentedin fournewexhibitsattheOldCourthouse.
“Wecannotlosethesestories–we[must]tell themthewaythattheyhappened,”McCluresays. “Wedonotgainanythingbyleavingoutpartsof ourhistory.We’llneverlearnfromhistoryifwe don’ttelltheentirestory.”
RENOVATINGAPIECEOFAMERICANHISTORY
Remodelinganationalsiterequiresdelicacy, aseffortstopreservethehistoricfabricoftheOld Courthousearecentraltotheworkbeingdone. McClurestatesthat,thoughnoticeablechanges haveoccurred,suchasnaturallightpouringin throughnewwindows,respectisstillpaidtothe
Wecannot lose thesestories – we[must] tellthem thewaythattheyhappened....We’llneverlearn fromhistoryifwedon’ttelltheentirestory.
essenceoftheOldCourthouse–andformany locals,itwillfeellike“cominghome.”
“It’skindofariteofpassageforaSt.Louis kid:Inthefourthgrade,theycomehereand domocktrials,”hesays.“Theeducational opportunitieshereareimmense,andthatisa hugedealforthe[GatewayArch]Foundation–oneofthepillarsofourmissioniseducation.”
Tripstothenationalpark,whichinclude visitingtheArchandtheOldCourthouse,are completelyfinanced–includingtransportation, mealsandentryfees–bythefoundationforall TitleIschoolsinthecity.
“It’sgoingtobeamuchbetterexperience for[visitors]now,”McCluresays,notingthatthe UniversalDesignGroupoversawrenovationsto increaseaccessibility.Ramps,bothinsideand outsidethebuilding,andthesite’sfirstelevator havebeeninstalled,alongwithacentralHVAC systemandfiresuppressionenhancements.
“Youcanseethecityaroundyouwhenyou comeintothiswonderfulbuildingthathelps identifyourstatetotheworld,”McCluresays.
LOOKINGINTOTHEFUTURE
Thepublic-privatepartnershipbetweenthe NationalParkServiceandtheGatewayArch ParkFoundationfullyfundedtheCityArchRiver Project.It’sthispartnershipthathassparkeda movementacrossthecountry.
“We’regratefulthattheGatewayArchPark Foundationhasbecomeamodelforother communitiesonhowtoformafruitfuland impactfulpublic-privatepartnershipwith nationalparksandcityparks,”McCluresays. “Weareheretogoaboveandbeyondwhat publicdollarscandobecausethat’swhatour cityandourcountrydeserve.…Thisspace doesnothappenwithoutphilanthropy. Everythingwedoisbasedonthegenerosity ofourdonors.”
OldCourthouse,11N.4thSt.,St.Louis, 314-655-1600,nps.gov/jeff/planyourvisit
GatewayArchParkFoundation,701MarketSt., Suite1250,St.Louis,314-881-2015,archpark.org
–RYANMCCLURE
CELEBRATING
ByDrewGieseke
LACEUPYOURRUNNINGSHOES,LEARNBLACK HISTORY,WATCHPERFORMANCESANDMORE ATTHESEFIVEEVENTSCOMMEMORATING JUNETEENTH2025INST.LOUIS.
Nowinitsfifthyearasanofficialnationalholiday, Juneteenthcommemoratestheendingofslaveryin theUnitedStates.June19,1865marksthemilitary enforcementoftheEmancipationProclamationin Texas–morethantwoyearsafterPresidentAbrahamLincoln’s executiveorder.
Eachyear,St.Louisjoinsthenationwidecelebrationwith events,activitiesandopportunitiestolearn.Here’swhat’s cominguparoundtownforthe2025holiday.
PhotocourtesyofRaceforReconciliation
RaceforReconciliation5K>
June14from8:30to10:30a.m.
HeldonDelmarBoulevard,theRaceforReconciliation5Kisa communitywalk/runthatpromotesracialunityinSt.Louis.Open toparticipantsofallagesandabilities,theeventseekstobring healingtothehistoricDelmarDivide,asymboloftheracialand economicdisparitiesinourcity.Tothatend,theracesupports severalnonprofitorganizationsdedicatedtoadvancingracialunity andequityinthemetroarea.
Since2024,it’sservedastheopeningeventfortheDelmarLoop JuneteenthCelebration.
DelmarBoulevard,St.Louis,stlr4r.com
DelmarLoopJuneteenthCelebration>
June14from8:30a.m.to9p.m.
KickingoffwiththeaforementionedRaceforReconciliation, theDelmarLoopJuneteenthCelebrationcelebratesfreedom, cultureandcommunityintheheartofthishistoricneighborhood.
Visitorsareinvitedtoenjoyspecialeventsincluding entertainment,shoppingfromBlack-ownedbusinesses,food trucks,artandfamily-friendlyactivitiesstartingat10:30a.m.At5 p.m.,catchliveperformancesfromGentlemenofVision,Spiritof AngelaAfricanDancers,Red&BlackBrassBand,andDJsincluding DJKPandDeeSmooves.
“TheLoophaslongbeenagatheringplacewherecultures intersectandcreativitythrives,”SamanthaSmugala,executive directoroftheEastLoopCommunityImprovementDistrict,stated inapressrelease.“ThisJuneteenth,we’rehonoringthespiritof freedombybringingpeopletogetherforajoyfulcelebrationof Blackexcellence,resilienceandunity.”
5900DelmarBlvd.,St.Louis,visittheloop.com/events/juneteenth-2025
NICJuneteenth2025inSoulard> June19from8a.m.to5p.m.
JoinNeighborsImpactingCommunities,anonprofitwhose missionisto“[celebrate]youthintheartsanddiversityofall childreninthemetro,”foritsspecialNICJuneteenthParade2025 onJuneteenthmorning.
The Freedom Parade,featuringlocalmarchingbandsand communitygroups,willstartat 9 a.m.onLafayetteStreetnear Truman Avenue, proceedeastonLafayetteand concludeatS. 3rd St.atabout10:30a.m. Afreeall-dayfestivalwilltake place atSoulard Market Park (S 8th St.) , withenjoyment forthewhole familyincludinglocal vendors,musicanddance performances, plus a special“kids zone” forthe youngsters.
S.8thSt.,St.Louis,bit.ly/3SA2OVs
JuneteenthattheMissouriHistoryMuseum> June17to20
ThroughoutJune, theMissouriHistoricalSocietywillhost several community eventsthat examinelocalhistoryand celebrateJuneteenth.
Withsoulfoodstorytellinghours,in-depthdiscussionsabout theArtsandEmpowermentMural(thelargestBlackhistorymural inMissouri),liveperformancesonJuneteenthnightandspecial museumevents,there’snoshortageofwaystocommemoratethis vitalholidaywithMHS.
•StorytellingintheMuseum:Juneteenth> Tuesday,June17andFriday,June20at10:30a.m.
•TheArtandEmpowermentMural> Tuesday,June17at11a.m.
•SummerFamilyFunSeries:BlackFreedomCelebration> Wednesday,June18from10a.m.to1p.m.
•JoyfulJuneteenth:AnEveningofPerformances> Thursday,June19from5to8p.m.
MissouriHistoryMuseum,5700LindellBlvd.,St.Louis,314-746-4599, mohistory.org/juneteenth
AJuneteenthCelebrationatRitenourHighSchool> June18at7:30p.m.
ConductedbyT.J.Abernathy,GatewayFestivalOrchestra’s Juneteenthcelebrationconcertspotlightsthevibrantcontributions oflivingBlackcomposers,combiningdiversemusicalstylesand blendingtraditionalorchestralsoundsfromrenownedcomposers likeAnthonyBarfieldandDwayneMilburnwithhip-hoptraditions, trapmusicandothergenres.
HostedatRitenourHighSchoolCommunityAuditorium,guests canshopBlack-ownedbusinessesinthelowerlobbyatthisevent, whichisfreetoattend.
RitenourHighSchool,9179BristolAve.,St.Louis,bit.ly/4jx5cXY
PhotocourtesyoftheDelmarLoop
ISLAND ON TIME
YOURSUMMERBEACHREADSAREHERE.
ByCharlotteRenner >Imagessupplied
If therewas acompetition forknowingthemostaboutbookishpop culture, bookinfluencersmighttake thetopprize. TheseSt. Louis-based Bookstagrammers readand review dozensofbooks every year. When we askedthem fortheir favoritebooksthatare setonislands,they delivered. Thebooks you’llseeonthislistare someofthemostlovedisland-setbooks onthescenerightnow. Getintothesummerspiritwiththis range ofstories, from relaxingbeachreadstonail-bitingthrillers.
“TheFive-StarWeekend”byElinHilderbrand RecommendedbyBookstagrammerPamMullin
Followingtheunexpectedlossofherhusband, foodbloggerHollisShaw needs a recharge.Shedecides toinvite fourofherclosestfriends – onefromeachphaseofherlife– toherNantucketsummerhome for a “Five-Star Weekend.” Eachofherfriendsisdealingwithdramaoftheirown (sometimeswith eachother) Readingthisbook feelslike eavesdroppingononelonggossipsession. “ Thedevelopment ofallofthecharacterswastopnotch,” BookstagrammerPamMullinsays. “Itissojuicyandgood.”
@readalongwithpamonInstagram
“TheParadiseProblem”byChristinaLauren RecommendedbyBookstagrammerPamMullin
S eton a privateislandinIndonesia, “ TheParadiseProblem” takesthefake marriagetropeto a whole newlevel,accordingtoMullin.Thetwomaincharacters, Annaand L iam(aka West)gotmarried incollegetoscorecheaperfamilyhousing UnbeknownsttoAnna, Westhadsomeulteriormotives behindtheunion.Itturnsout Westneedstobemarried forfiveyearsinordertoreceivehissizeable inheritance.“Ilovedhowemotionallymaturethecharacterswere,” Mullinsays.“ Theyweresowellwrittenthat IfeltlikeI actuallyknewthem. I wascheering forthemtosucceed. S uch a greatstory and a must-read.”
@readalongwithpamonInstagram
“Circe”byMadelineMiller RecommendedbyBookstagrammerPamMullin CirceisthedaughterofHelios, Greekgodofthesun,andtheocean nymphPerse.She’s expectedtobe bornwithpower, buthergiftofwitchcraftisn’t well-receivedbythegods.Feelingthreatened,Zeus banishesCircetoanisolatedisland,whereshehoneshertalentsandencounterssomeofthemost famous mythologicalbeings, fromtheMinotaurtoOdysseus Duringhertimespentamonggodsand mortals, Circemustdiscoverwhosheistoprotectwhatshelovesmost “IfyouloveGreek mythology – orevenifyoudon’t– youwilllike thisbook,” Mullinsays “It’s sogood!”
@readalongwithpamonInstagram
“ItHappenedOneSummer”byTessaBailey RecommendedbyBookstagrammerAprilT.
Ifyouwanttogetonthespicyromancebooktrain,“ItHappenedOne S ummer”isthebook for you. FashionableandinfluentialPiperBellingeris a fun,bubblypersonbynature. B utwhenher rooftoppartylandsherinjail,Piper’s stepdadsendsherto a placethat’s theoppositetohersunny personality: Westport,Washington, a smallfishingisland,becomesherhome forthesummer Piper isdeterminedtoprovethatshe’s morethan a prettyfacetoeveryonewhodoubtsher – especiallyher stepdadand a localbeardedseacaptain,whothinkshewon’t last a weekoutsideofBeverlyHills. “You willfallinlovewiththesecharactersand feellike you’reontheisland,readytositbytheharbor, eat somecrabandhave a drinkatthebar,” BookstagrammerApril T. says “Verysteamy.”
@missaprilt23_readsonInstagram
“BadSummerPeople”byEmmaRosenblum RecommendedbyfreelancewriterandBookstagrammerCharlotteRenner Whenthesunshineshotter, New YorksocialitesflocktoSalcombe,a snootytownofFireIsland, tospendtheirsummers Everyoneknowseveryone, andtheirdramasmightturnlethal.Thebook launcheswiththediscoveryofanas-yetunidentifieddeadbody Itthenzipsyoubacktothestart ofsummertounravelthe mysteryofwhodies – andwho’s responsible.Rosenblum’s in-depth descriptionsofthesettingandthepeoplebringthestorytolife.Ifyoulovedwatching “ TheWhite L otus,” you’lllovethesatirical“Bad S ummerPeople.”
@char.is.readingonInstagram
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