UPT_MV26

MARTHA’S VINEYARD

THE VINEYARD ISSUE LEGENDARY LUXURY & LIFESTYLE

ERIN GOLDSON

An Icon of Legacy, Family and Vineyard Tradition SUMMER 2026

UPTOWN MAGAZINE.COM

© 2026 Nissan | 2026 Pathfinder Rock Creek 4WD shown. See local dealer for availability.

Where Every Journey Begins with Community At Nissan, we believe progress starts with connection. Proud to partner with UPTOWN Martha’s Vineyard in celebrating the people, perspectives and stories that inspire us to move forward together.

Martha’s Vineyard 2026

Features The Luxury of Legacy Erin Goldson

Pg. 32

Luxury to the Max Corey Damen Jenkins

Pg. 40

Champagne Life B. Stuyvesant

Pg. 44

The Loop Opener Maison Black

Pg. 16

Books The Bluff Bookshelf

Pg. 18

Products Coveted Finds

Pg. 20

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UPTOWN VENTURES GROUP

CO-CEO | EDITOR IN CHIEF BRETT WRIGHT

EDITOR SHANA HOOKS

CO-CEO | CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER LEONARD E. BURNETT JR.

SENIOR ACCOUNT DIRECTOR ROBIN GIBSON NORTHEAST SALES MANAGER LOUREN BATES EAST COAST SALES JASON DEMARCO

CONTRIBUTING CREATIVE DIRECTOR DARRYL L. BROWN DIGITAL CONTENT DIRECTOR ANNIKA HARRIS

MARKETING & EVENTS DIRECTOR TRIENA CRUMMIE VP ENTERTAINMENT PETER THOMAS EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO CO-CEO’S ALECIA WARD

DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA ANGELA B. GALLY

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS PATRICK COOPER COPY EDITOR AMY LONG DIGITAL MEDIA DIRECTOR STEPHENETTA (ISIS) HARMON AD OPERATIONS SPECIALIST ISAAC CHILDS CONTRIBUTORS BAGEOT DIA, JASON GORDON, ANNIKA HARRIS, ANITA KOPACZ, DR. CRYSTAL MOORE, BIANCA MORENO, SHERYL NANCE-NASH, NEKKA SAMUEL, CHINWE UGOEZI, KHALIL WALDRON, YVONNA WRIGHT

CONSUMER CIRCULATION MANAGER BERNADETTE PACE, PROCIRC

FOUNDERS LEONARD E. BURNETT JR. & BRETT WRIGHT

UPTOWN MAGAZINE

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PUBLISHER’S LETTER

Summertime at the Vineyard There is something about Martha’s Vineyard that invites us to slow down, reconnect and remember what matters most.

For generations, the island has represented far more than a summer destination for Black families. It has been a place of community, culture, entrepreneurship, creativity and rest. It is where old friendships are renewed, new relationships begin and traditions are passed from one generation to the next.

Every summer, the Vineyard reminds us of the importance of creating spaces where we can celebrate one another, exchange ideas and simply enjoy being together.

That spirit is at the heart of UPTOWN Vineyard Magazine.

Within these pages, we celebrate the people, experiences and stories that make this season so special. You will meet entrepreneurs, artists, executives, families and cultural leaders who are building meaningful legacies while continuing to make room for joy. Their stories reflect the richness of our community and the many ways we continue to influence business, entertainment, style, wellness and culture.

This issue also reflects the energy of UPTOWN House, our weeklong gathering of conversations, celebrations and shared experiences in Oak Bluffs. What began as an opportunity to bring our community together has grown into one of the most anticipated moments of the Vineyard season. From important discussions around wealth, health and entrepreneurship to intimate dinners, receptions and UPTOWN After Dark, each experience is designed to create connection with purpose.

We are especially grateful to the partners, contributors, friends and supporters who continue to believe in the UPTOWN vision. Their commitment allows us to create platforms that recognize our achievements, amplify our voices and bring our community together in meaningful ways.

Most importantly, we thank you, our readers and guests, for continuing to make UPTOWN part of your Vineyard tradition.

Whether this is your first visit to the island or a place your family has returned to for decades, we hope this issue captures the beauty, energy and sense of belonging that make Martha’s Vineyard unlike anywhere else.

As you enjoy the pages ahead, we encourage you to discover something new, support a local business, reconnect with an old friend and create memories with the people you love.

Welcome to the Vineyard!

Len & Brett

Publishers, UPTOWN Magazine

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“

The Vineyard reminds us of the importance of creating spaces where we can celebrate one another, exchange ideas and soimply enjoy being together.

”

MOISTURE, STRENGTH & SHINE *

Keke Palmer

CHIEF BRAND OFFICER

*when used as a system

© 2026 Creme of Nature. All rights reserved.

EDITOR’S LETTER

The Luxury of Summer There is something truly special about summer - and even more special about summer on Martha’s Vineyard. Beyond its scenic sunsets and storied history, the Vineyard offers something many of us crave but rarely make time for: the luxury of slowing down.

Whether you arrive by ferry or flight, once you’re here, time becomes kinder and the island’s spirit becomes kindred. For generations, MV has served as a sanctuary where family, friends, food and tradition come together to create lasting memories that span generations.

In this issue you’ll discover why Martha’s Vineyard is the intersection of legacy and luxury, and the air to ambition and aspiration. We’ve also curated the very best in lifestyle, both on and off the island, bringing you elevated experiences, and inspiring stories that celebrate culture and the pursuit of excellence.

Whether you are a longtime visitor or discovering its magic for the first time, I hope this issue inspires you to embrace the luxury of summer.

Welcome to the Vineyard!

Shana A. Hooks Editor-in-Chief @signedwithluxe

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LET’S BUILD A MEANINGFUL LEGACY. By asking deeper questions, we’ll help find your financial blind spots, and your opportunities, to help you do even better now, and years from now. That’s a better way to money.

It’s easy to get started—no commitment, just a better conversation.

See the difference the right advisor makes.

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H LIST

Frank Holland

Kevin Gough

Jeff Burroughs

Akunna Cook

Victoria Lambert

DJ Jon Quick

Willie Woods

Caroline Hunter

Andrea Turner

Dale Favors

DJ Smooth B

Keith Clinksales

India Rose

Harry Hall

Evans Charles

Spike & Tanya Lee Chris Washington Chris Spencer Malcolm & Camille Lee

Steve Capers Kahina Van Dyke Chef Ting

Tori Nichel Dr. Lisa Grain Erika Faye Jones Malaak Compton-Rock Sunny Hostin Mara Brock Akil

Bisa Butler

Amy Dubois Barnett

Melissa Bradley

Giscard & Genesis Presume

Valerie Mosley

Deborah Santos

Marlon Greer

Leeza Singh

Brian Bucksell

Kevin Williams, MD, MBA

Lisa Bonner

Kim Humphrey

Reverand Judy Fentress-Williams, PhD

Ron & Shelly Gillyard

Lorren Love-Carter

Dale & Tara Favors

Sheryl Wesley

Jason Jackson

Tiffany Rose

Chris Simon

Sarah Jones

Dr. Theresa A. Cooper Asleigh Demi Newt & Pam Gentry Simone White DJ Darrin Ebron

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Jazzmin Bethel

ADVERTORIAL

THE ROAD TO

BLACK JOY How the Nissan Pathfinder became part of one Brooklyn family’s journey to Martha’s Vineyard, memory making, and a new chapter of family tradition.

BY NISSAN

“Summer travel has never been just about getting away. It is about coming together.”

For the Augustin family, summer travel has never been just about getting away. It is about coming together. It is about giving their children memories they can carry with them. It is about joy, discovery, culture, family connection and the simple beauty of being present with the people you love most.

Gerald and Alexis Augustin live in Brooklyn, New York, with their daughter, Dylan, and their son, Dominic. Gerald is of Haitian descent, while Alexis is of Cuban and African American descent, and together they are raising their children with a deep appreciation for family, heritage, community, and new experiences.

“We’re a fun loving family that enjoys traveling, spending quality time together, and trying new experiences,” Gerald says. “To us, summer travel traditions are about much more than vacations. They’re about creating lasting memories for our children and exposing them to different places, cultures, and experiences.”

This summer, those traditions lead them back to Martha’s Vineyard.

For generations, Martha’s Vineyard has held a special place in the story of Black family travel, leisure, community, and connection. For the Augustins, the island represents something both peaceful and powerful. It is a place where adults can exhale, children can explore, and families can feel surrounded by a sense of ease, history, and belonging.

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“Martha’s Vineyard was the perfect family getaway destination for us,” Gerald says. “We’ve visited before and enjoyed every moment of it. There’s something special about the island that keeps bringing us back.”

That something is hard to fully describe, but easy to feel once you arrive. The slower pace. The energy of Oak Bluffs. The beauty of the water. The sight of families reconnecting year after year. The feeling that summer, at its best, can be both restorative and memorable.

“What really stands out about Martha’s Vineyard is the peaceful and welcoming energy,” Gerald says. “There’s a calm, happy vibe that makes you slow down and appreciate the moment, and that’s something we really want our kids to experience and grow up remembering.”

This year’s trip carries even more meaning. It will be the Augustins’ first drive from Brooklyn to Martha’s Vineyard in their Nissan Pathfinder and their first Vineyard trip together as a family of four.

For them, the journey itself is already part of the memory. The packing. The anticipation. The kids in the back. The conversations on the road. The moment they reach the ferry and know that summer vacation has officially begun.

The Augustin family in Brooklyn with their Nissan Pathfinder.

A NEW FAMILY CHAPTER

“More than anything, we’re excited to create memories of the first time all four of us will be together on the Vineyard as a family,” Gerald says. “One of the moments we’re most excited about is reaching the ferry and knowing that our summer vacation on Martha’s Vineyard has officially started.”

The Pathfinder entered their lives at the beginning of a new family chapter.

When Gerald and Alexis learned they were expecting another child, the conversation turned quickly to what their growing family would need next. Their previous vehicle no longer felt practical for a family of four, especially when grandparents joined for outings, weekend plans, and road trips. They needed more room, more comfort, and more flexibility for the realities of family life in New York City.

“What initially led us to consider purchasing the Nissan Pathfinder was finding out that we were expecting another child,” Gerald says.

“Almost immediately, we looked at each other and said, ‘We need a new car.’”

For a Brooklyn family with two children, strollers, bags, school activities, errands, and family trips, space matters. So does dependability. So does value. The Augustins wanted a vehicle that could move easily between everyday life and special moments.

School drop offs during the week. Weekend drives out of the city.

Visits with family. Cultural events. Road trips. Summer traditions.

The Pathfinder stood out because it met their needs without asking them to compromise.

“When comparing options, the Pathfinder’s size and space really stood out to us, especially since we were specifically looking for a vehicle with a third row,” Gerald says. “As we live in Brooklyn with two kids, having enough room for our family, strollers, bags, and everyday activities was extremely important.”

The latest 2026 Nissan Pathfinder builds on that family ready versatility, combining rugged capability, refined comfort, and modern technology in a three row SUV designed to make room for both everyday life and the adventures ahead. With seating for up to eight passengers, or an available seven passenger configuration with second row captain’s chairs, the Pathfinder offers the flexibility growing families need. A 3.5 liter V6 engine paired with a nine speed automatic transmission delivers confident performance, while available Intelligent 4WD, advanced connectivity features, and Nissan Safety Shield 360 help bring added capability, convenience, and peace of mind to the journey. Whether navigating city streets, packing up for a weekend escape, or setting out on a family road trip, the Pathfinder is designed to help families go farther together.

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“Those are the memories that make the Pathfinder more than just a “Those vehicle are for the us.”memories

that make the Pathfinder more than just a vehicle for us.”

GERALD AUGUSTIN

GERALD AUGUSTIN

Everyday drives have become space for connection and memory making.

MORE THAN A VEHICLE

For the Augustins, however, that practicality quickly became personal.

Since purchasing their Pathfinder, they have found that the vehicle has become part of the rhythm of their lives. It has helped make daily errands easier, school activities less stressful, and road trips more comfortable. But beyond the utility, it has also become the setting for small family moments that now feel unforgettable.

Some memories began right away.

“Some of our favorite memories in the Pathfinder started the day I brought it home and saw my daughter’s reaction to our new car,” Gerald says. “She was especially excited when I opened the panoramic roof, and she could look up at the sky while we were driving.”

For Dylan, that moment was wonder. For Gerald, it was confirmation. The new vehicle was not just about space. It was about giving his family a place to feel comfortable, excited, and together.

The Pathfinder was also there for one of the family’s most important milestones: bringing Dominic home from the hospital for the first time. It has been there for a Daddy and Daughter road trip to Delaware. It is there on regular school drives, where ordinary mornings and afternoons turn into time to laugh, talk, and connect.

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“Even our everyday drives to and from school have become special moments where we laugh, talk, and spend quality time together as a family,” Gerald says. “Those are the memories that make the Pathfinder more than just a vehicle for us.”

That idea sits at the heart of the Augustin family story. A vehicle can be practical, spacious, and dependable, but for families, it often becomes something more. It becomes the place where children nap after long days. Where playlists become soundtracks. Where conversations happen. Where parents look in the rearview mirror and see their lives moving forward.

For the Augustins, the Pathfinder is now part of their family story.

Last fall, it also became part of their cultural story when they drove it to Howard University Homecoming. The trip marked their first family road trip in the Pathfinder and gave Alexis the opportunity to return to her alma mater for her class reunion. For the family, it was more than a weekend away. It was a celebration of history, pride, achievement, and community.

“Driving the Pathfinder to Howard University Homecoming last fall was especially memorable because it was our first road trip as a family,” Gerald says. “It made the experience even more meaningful to return to my wife’s alma mater and celebrate her class reunion while also taking part in the energy, culture, and tradition of Howard Homecoming.”

The Pathfinder gives the family room for everyday life and the road ahead.

THE ROAD AHEAD

That sense of culture and connection is central to how Gerald and Alexis are raising their children. Alexis is a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., and Gerald is a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Their Black Greek Letter organizations helped shape values that now show up in their family life: unity, service, leadership, achievement, and a commitment to uplifting community.

“We value creating spaces where we can celebrate our culture, support one another, and build lasting memories grounded in pride, love, and connection,” Gerald says.

That is part of what makes Martha’s Vineyard so meaningful to them. The Vineyard is not just a beautiful island. For the Augustins, it is a place where their children can see Black families resting, celebrating, thriving, and enjoying one another. It is a place where representation feels lived in. Where joy feels generational. Where tradition and possibility meet.

“Our Martha’s Vineyard trip represents so much more than a vacation for our family,” Gerald says. “It’s an opportunity to expose our children to Black excellence, Black joy, and the power of unity in a space that feels peaceful, welcoming, and inspiring.”

That line captures the deeper meaning of the journey. The Augustins are not simply driving from Brooklyn to the Vineyard.

They are building a tradition. They are giving Dylan and Dominic images and experiences that will help shape how they understand family, culture, travel, and belonging.

They are showing their children that joy can be intentional. That community can be powerful. That legacy can be found not only in major milestones, but also in summer drives, ferry rides, sandy feet, family photos, and the quiet confidence of being surrounded by love.

For Nissan, the Augustin family’s story reflects the way the Pathfinder fits into the real lives of modern families. It is designed for families that are growing, moving, exploring, and creating memories together. For families who need room for the everyday and comfort for the extraordinary. For families who see the road not just as a route, but as part of the experience.

For Gerald and Alexis, that experience is still unfolding.

This summer, when they load the Pathfinder in Brooklyn and begin the drive toward Martha’s Vineyard, they will be carrying more than luggage. They will be carrying family tradition. They will be carrying culture. They will be carrying the joy of a new chapter and the promise of memories their children will one day remember.

And when they reach the ferry, that moment will mean exactly what summer has always meant to them.

The trip has begun. The family is together. The road has brought them closer to joy.

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Where Culture Meets Commerce

BY SHANA HOOKS

This summer, designer, Founder and Chief Creative Officer Tori Nichel brings Maison Black to Oak Bluffs, transforming retail into a destination rooted in culture, creativity and connection. More than a pop-up shop, Maison Black is an immersive experience that celebrates the brilliance of Black designers and artists while creating an intentional space where commerce and community flourish together. With a thoughtfully curated collection of fashion, accessories, art and home goods, Maison Black makes discovering exceptional Black design both effortless and inspiring. Featured here is Saint Fort Brand’s Pearl Bucket Hat, a sophisticated take on a summer classic, crafted from natural straw and adorned with more than 400 ivory pearls for an effortlessly elegant finish—a reflection of the artistry, sustainability and timeless style that define the Maison Black experience on Martha’s Vineyard.

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The Bluff Bookshelf Whether you’re unwinding on the porch or lounging on the beach, The Bluff Bookshelf is your curated companion for summer reading. UPTOWN shares a collection of must-read titles, including some featured at the Martha’s Vineyard Black Book Festival.

BY SHANA HOOKS

The Revelation of Dionne Daphne

by Mara Brock Akil From the brilliant mind of the award-winning creator of Girlfriends, Being Mary Jane, Love Is, and Forever comes an emotionally enthralling debut novel about enduring love, world-shattering secrets, and self-awakening.

At the center is Dionne Daphne, a successful beauty editor seemingly living the perfect New York life—complete with a coveted magazine career, a picture-perfect boyfriend, and an enviable social circle. But beneath the glamorous surface lies a journey of self-discovery, unexpected revelations, and the courage to redefine happiness on her own terms.

Available in hardcover, paperback or downloadable.

If I Ruled the World

by Amy Dubois Barnett Award-winning media executive and author Amy DuBois Barnett’s debut novel takes readers inside the high-stakes world of New York media, power, and ambition. When rising editor Nikki Johnson is tasked with saving a magazine, she finds herself navigating wealth, influence, office politics, and complicated relationships while fighting to protect both her career and her dreams.

Available in hardcover, paperback or downloadable.

Summer on the Bluffs

by Sunny Hostin Summer on the Bluffs is the first novel in Emmy Award-winning host and author Sunny Hostin’s Summer series. Matriarch Amelia “Ama” Tanner invites her three successful but deeply different goddaughters to spend one final summer together before she moves abroad. As the summer comes to an end, a season of sun and luxury unravels into a web of hidden identities, infidelity, and long-buried family secrets that will change their lives forever.

Available in hardcover, paperback or downloadable.

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The UPTOWN Edit Coveted finds for Life on the Vineyard - and Beyond.

BY SHANA HOOKS

Emerald Envy Taylor Open Toe Metallic Flat Slides in Green ($425) American footwear designer Tiannia Barnes proves that effortless luxury is always in style. Finished in rich metallic leather, this striking silhouette delivers understated glamour with every step—perfect for the Vineyard or for adding a touch of opulence to any outfit.

www.tianniabarnes.com

Haute Hair The Amara Mixed Size Collection ($660) Couture craftmanship at its best, French Barrelettes is designed for those who appreciate beauty with intention. This luxury roller set delivers polished volume, soft movement, and salon-worthy results—transforming your daily styling ritual into an elevated act of self-care.

www.frenchbarrelettes.com

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Golden Girl Onyesha Brass Necklace ($85) Inspired by the artistry of African craftsmanship, the Onyesha Brass Necklace transforms a timeless silhouette into a striking statement. Cascading hand-cut brass fringe dances with every movement, catching the light with effortless elegance. Equal parts sculptural and sophisticated, it’s the kind of heirloom-worthy piece that elevates everything from crisp linen to evening silk—an unforgettable expression of heritage, craftsmanship, and modern luxury.

www.jubileemv.myshopify.com

Hoop Dreams Bestow Classic 2” Gold Hoops ($36) The perfect hoop is more than an accessory. It’s a signature. Designed with a polished 18K gold-plated finish, Bestow’s Classic 2” Gold Hoops are lightweight, hypoallergenic, waterproof, and tarnish-resistant, making them an effortless staple from beach days to sunset dinners.

Whether you’re swimming in the ocean, strolling through town, or dressing for an evening gathering, these timeless hoops are designed to keep up with every moment of summer. Beautifully packaged and endlessly wearable, they also make the perfect hostess gift for a weekend away. Classic, versatile, and effortlessly chic, they’re the pair you’ll reach for all season long.

Save 15% off your purchase with code Uptown.

Scent of Serenity Doze / Hinoki + Yuzu 2.5 oz ($24) 8.0 oz ($48) Infused with calming hinoki and bright yuzu, this aromatherapy candle transforms your evening routine into a luxurious sleep ritual.

Doze pairs grounding Japanese hinoki cypress with bright, uplifting yuzu citrus for a calming, spa-inspired aroma. Designed to ease the transition from a full day into rest, it fills a room with quiet, woodsy warmth and a clean citrus lift.

www.overnightbty.com

www.shopbestowcollection.com

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THE INTERN AND THE EXECUTIVE a Andre Forde and Earl Scott met inside IBM in the early nineties, then lost touch for thirty years.

Now they are building the network Creators own.

a

BY DROP GLOBAL

T

Drop Global is not a company two men founded together.

It is two companies that turned out to be halves of the same one.

Scott noticed him right away, then left to lead Dynatech Integrated Systems. Forde stayed, worked his way up, and landed on the team integrating Windows into IBM’s Personal Computer line. He later joined Scott at Dynatech.

Neither of them knew they were rehearsing.

WHAT COMES NEXT

he first time Earl Scott and Andre Forde were in the same building, IBM was still where every ambitious young engineer wanted to be. Scott was a systems engineer and marketing representative — a Lincoln University physics graduate, an executive on his way up and, as it turned out, on his way out. Forde was an intern, working at IBM while finishing his degree at Morgan State.

TWO CAREERS

Then they went their separate ways and lost touch. For thirty years, Scott heard about Forde’s accomplishments the way everyone else did, word of mouth. Forde co-created the world’s first all-in-one website builder and sold it to Network Solutions in 1999. Most recently, he founded Dula.ai, an AI-driven health platform for people managing chronic conditions.

Scott built the half of the internet you can actually touch.

Dynis, the telecom infrastructure company he founded, served AT&T, Verizon, and Sprint before MasTec acquired it. Neither man built a career in entertainment. Both spent their careers in the business of what entertainment runs on.

ONE COMPANY

A mutual friend put them back in contact, and Scott made the call. Neither was looking for a project. Each was already building one. Scott was deep into a Creator platform anchored in comedy. Forde was building a streaming network. Scott had Creators and no network. Forde had a network seeking a bigger roster of Creators & content.

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“Creators already won the audience. That fight is over,” Forde says. “What they don’t have is everything else a network has — distribution, a channel guide, a way to get paid. That isn’t a content problem. It’s an infrastructure problem, and infrastructure is what the two of us know how to build.”

The platform is DropTV, live today, free, on Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV and the web. Featuring comedy, podcasts, interviews, music, sports and lifestyle.

But what is live today is the first chapter. The platform they are building next gives Creators their own channels and more than one way to get paid including subscriptions, advertising, pay-per-view, live events, and revenue that arrives straight from the people who show up.

“Every platform hands a Creator one way to make money and calls it a business,” Forde says. “One algorithm change, and it’s gone. We’re building it so no single switch can turn a Creator’s income off.”

In DropTV’s framing, a Creator is not talent appearing on somebody else’s network. The Creator is the network.

FULL CIRCLE

The executive who once noticed an intern is now that intern’s co-founder. Whatever hierarchy existed inside that building no longer exists.

“I gave him advice once,” Scott says. “Now I take his.”

DropTV is at UPTOWN House this week. First look at what comes next: www.drop.tv/uptown

ADVERTORIAL

DropTV is where creators become streaming channels—distributed across 500M+ devices worldwide, with fans paying their favorite creators directly from the platform. www.uptownmagazine.com 23

“ CLIQUE UPTOWN’S SIGNATURE MARTHA’S VINEYARD EVENTS BRING TOGETHER TASTEMAKERS, CREATIVES, CHANGEMAKERS AND FRIENDS TO CELEBRATE THE SPIRIT OF THE VINEYARD. CHECK OUT SOME FAVORITE MOMENTS CAPTURING THE UNMISTAKABLE MAGIC OF SUMMER ON THE BLUFFS.

50

Years of Creme of Nature:

Celebrating Legacy, Innovation and Community at Martha’s Vineyard

This year marks a remarkable milestone for Creme of Nature.

BY REVLON

F

or 50 years, the brand has been a trusted companion to generations of consumers, creating hair care solutions specifically designed for natural hair while celebrating the beauty, versatility, and individuality of curls, coils, and waves. As Creme of Nature commemorates its golden anniversary, the brand is reflecting on a rich heritage rooted in innovation, community, and culture while looking boldly toward the future.

There could be no more fitting place to celebrate this milestone than Martha’s Vineyard.

Long regarded as a cherished gathering place for Black leaders, creators, entrepreneurs, and changemakers, the Vineyard represents the very values that have guided Creme of Nature throughout its 50-year journey: community, excellence, self-expression, and cultural pride. This summer, those values come to life through the brand’s partnership with the Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival (MVAAFF), one of the nation’s premier celebrations of Black storytelling and achievement.

is creating meaningful opportunities to connect with festival attendees through beauty, wellness, education, and community. Throughout the festival weekend, guests will have the opportunity to experience product discovery, beauty touch-ups, wellness-inspired programming, and engaging conversations designed to celebrate confidence, authenticity, and self-care.

celebrate “As50weyears of

Creme of Nature, we’re incredibly proud of the legacy we’ve built within the textured hair community.

”

The celebration also highlights the exciting new chapter underway for the brand.

Creme of Nature has focused on delivering innovative solutions that reflect the evolving needs of today’s textured-hair consumer. A major example is the launch of Scalp Relief Wipes, the brand’s newest innovation developed to address a common challenge among consumers who wear protective styles: maintaining a clean, refreshed scalp between wash days. Formulated with ingredients including aloe vera, witch hazel, and 100% organic argan oil, the wipes offer a convenient, mess-free solution that helps refresh the scalp without disrupting styles.

~ NIKIA BOWMAN, For five decades, Creme of Nature has The launch represents an important helped consumers express themselves evolution for the brand: creating prodGLOBAL DIRECTOR through their hair. From iconic styles ucts that fit seamlessly into modern OF MARKETING, passed down through generations to lifestyles while remaining rooted in the CREME OF NATURE today’s trend-setting looks, hair reneeds of the community. mains one of the most personal forms of storytelling. Every curl, braid, twist, Helping to shape that vision is awardand coil tells a story of heritage, creativity, resilience, and self- winning actress, producer, entrepreneur, and Creme of love. That belief continues to guide the brand’s mission today.

Nature’s first-ever Chief Brand Officer, Keke Palmer. More than a spokesperson, Palmer works closely with the brand on As part of its 50th anniversary celebration, Creme of Nature innovation, storytelling, and consumer engagement, helping 30 www.uptownmagazine.com

ADVERTORIAL

ensure the brand remains culturally relevant and consumerdriven. Her partnership reflects a shared commitment to authenticity, representation, and celebrating the beauty of textured hair.

For Palmer, the collaboration is deeply personal. Her involvement in the development of Scalp Relief Wipes was inspired by her own experiences wearing protective styles and understanding firsthand the importance of maintaining scalp health while preserving style longevity. Together, Palmer and Creme of Nature have helped bring to market an innovation designed to solve a real consumer need while reinforcing the brand’s commitment to thoughtful product development.

As Creme of Nature celebrates its 50th anniversary, the brand recognizes that innovation alone is not what has sustained its legacy.

The true strength of the brand has always been its connection to the community.

For decades, Creme of Nature products have been passed from mothers to daughters, stylists to clients, and one generation to the next. The brand has earned its place in bathrooms, salons, beauty supply stores, and everyday routines because it has consistently listened, adapted, and evolved alongside the people it serves.

That same spirit continues to guide the brand’s future.

Whether through new product innovation, strategic partnerships,

cultural events, or community engagement, Creme of Nature remains committed to empowering consumers to embrace their natural beauty with confidence. The brand understands that healthy hair care is about more than products. It is about self-expression, identity, heritage, and the confidence to show up as your authentic self.

“As we celebrate 50 years of Creme of Nature, we’re incredibly proud of the legacy we’ve built within the textured hair community,” says Nikia Bowman, Global Director of Marketing for Creme of Nature. “Our success has always been rooted in understanding and serving the unique needs of our consumers. While the beauty landscape continues to evolve, our commitment remains the same: delivering innovative solutions, celebrating our culture, and empowering individuals to wear their hair with pride and confidence.

Being able to celebrate this milestone at Martha’s Vineyard, surrounded by such an incredible community of Black creatives, leaders, and storytellers, makes this moment even more meaningful.”

At Martha’s Vineyard this summer, that commitment comes to life in a meaningful way.

From honoring a rich legacy to embracing the future of beauty, Creme of Nature’s presence at MVAAFF is more than a sponsorship. It is a celebration of culture.

A celebration of community. And most importantly, a celebration of the people who have made the brand’s first 50 years possible. www.uptownmagazine.com 31

THE LUXURY OF LEGACY

BY SHANA HOOKS

Vineyard Icon Founder and CEO Erin Goldson talks with UPTOWN about how her family’s generationslong connection to Martha’s Vineyard inspired a brand celebrating the visionaries and changemakers shaping the island’s enduring legacy.

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or our Summer/Vineyard issue, there was no more fitting cover story than the woman behind the brand redefining how Martha’s Vineyard celebrates excellence. Between preparations for the 2026 Vineyard Icon Awards, I caught up with Goldson to discuss the power of legacy, purpose-driven leadership, and the vision that transformed an idea into one of the Vineyard’s most anticipated celebrations.

LEADING IN LEGACY UPTOWN: Tell us about your family’s legacy on Martha’s Vineyard.

ERIN GOLDSON (ERIN): Martha’s Vineyard has been part of my family’s legacy for as long as I can remember. I’ve heard the story about how my mom met my dad here when they were 17 and got married at 21 more times than I can count. Years later, my sister was married on Martha’s Vineyard too, on the very same day, wearing my mom’s wedding dress. When my dad passed away unexpectedly, even though we lived in New York, we knew we would always come back, so we laid him to rest here.

My family has been connected to the Vineyard for five generations, and so many of my own milestones happened here too.

My first job was on Martha’s Vineyard. My first entrepreneurial venture was a little jewelry business called Wanna Beads that I started as a teenager. I’ve had so many firsts and wonder-

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ful memories on the island that I honestly can’t remember not coming. I’ve never missed a summer, and I hope I never do.

The Vineyard is where my family gathered, where traditions were created, and where generations of memories were made.

It’s never been just a summer destination. It’s part of who I am, and ultimately, it’s what inspired me to create Vineyard Icon.

UPTOWN: Legacy is a word that comes up often, especially when referencing the Vineyard. What does legacy mean to you personally?

ERIN: To me, legacy is about leaving something better than you found it for those who come after you. It’s about creating something that lives beyond you in a way that is meaningful and impactful.

That’s really the heart of Vineyard Icon, honoring the people whose contributions continue to shape the island while inspiring the next generation to build on that legacy.

The Vineyard Icon Scholarship is one example of that. For me, it’s never been just about the financial support. I envision a day when one of our scholarship recipients is interviewing for a job, and the interviewer happens to have ties to Martha’s Vineyard.

They see “Vineyard Icon Scholarship” on a résumé, it sparks a conversation, creates an unexpected connection, and perhaps even opens a door.

That’s why every applicant is asked, “What legacy do you want to leave behind?” Because the scholarship isn’t simply about recognizing achievement today. It’s about encouraging young people to think intentionally about the impact they hope to have for years to come.

UPTOWN: I always share that luxury is not about money.

It’s about a mindset, and how we value the things and people we treasure. What advice would you give on how to preserve legacy?

ERIN: I think we often believe legacy has to be some grand gesture. I don’t think that’s true.

For me, legacy begins by asking yourself: What is something in your life that’s special? A place. A memory. A feeling. A tradition.

Then ask yourself, How do I preserve it in a way that allows others to experience it and find meaning in it?

That’s how legacy lives on. It’s not just what we leave behind. It’s what we choose to protect, celebrate, and pass on.

UPTOWN: Community is such an integral pillar of Martha’s Vineyard, and truly the essence of its rich legacy. How important is community to you?

ERIN: Community is incredibly important to me.

I have so many lifelong friends from the Vineyard, and what I love most is the generational aspect of it. Some of my closest friends today are people whose families also grew up together on the island.

Community was also one of the biggest inspirations behind Vineyard Icon.

When I think about my Vineyard experience, I often think about moving between different worlds in a single day. I might start my morning riding my bike to the Inkwell to watch the Polar Bears, such an incredible example of community and tradition.

From there I’d spend time with a childhood friend, meet up with New York friends visiting the island, and later see family friends and aunts and uncles.

I wanted to create an event that brought together all of those different circles of community: my lifelong Vineyard friends, people visiting the island for the first time, the people I consider family, friends from New York, business leaders, creatives, and everyone who shares a love for this special place.

To me, that’s what makes Martha’s Vineyard so unique. It’s a place where generations, industries, and communities naturally come together. Vineyard Icon was my way of creating a space where those worlds could intentionally connect.

UPTOWN: How has your family’s legacy influenced and inspired you?

ERIN: In the inaugural Vineyard Icon Awards program, I wrote that my original icon was my father. After the awards, my mom jokingly started calling herself “the icon maker.”

But in every sense, both of my parents were iconic individually.

Together, they were truly an iconic couple who made each other better, and anyone who knew them would say the same. I think

it’s often hard to recognize how your own family’s legacy has shaped you because it’s simply the life you’ve always known.

Last year, about a week before the inaugural Vineyard Icon Awards, I came across the program from my father’s funeral.

I don’t think I have looked at it in more than fifteen years. As I read it, what stood out weren’t his accomplishments. It was the words people used to describe him: caring, compassionate, innovative, energetic, someone with an unparalleled zest for life. I remember thinking that although he’s no longer physically here, his influence is with me every day.

Looking back, I realized those same values are at the heart of Vineyard Icon. It’s not just about celebrating what people accomplish. It’s about recognizing how they lead, how they treat others, and the legacy they leave behind.

In many ways, Vineyard Icon is an extension of the values my parents lived every day.

MARKETER MEETS MEANING UPTOWN: Your background is in marketing. Tell us how your experience in marketing helped the work you do with the Vineyard Icon Awards and The Vineyard Icon Foundation.

ERIN: I’ve had the privilege of working on many purposeful brands throughout my corporate career, including Dove, where I worked on initiatives like the CROWN Act, which focused on ending race based hair discrimination. My marketing career has taught me that brands with purpose grow. Because of that, I’ve always believed marketing can be a force for good, and that’s been at the heart of everything I’ve done.

I remember asking myself what my dream job would be, even if it didn’t actually exist or wasn’t something you could find on LinkedIn. I decided my dream job would be CMO of Martha’s Vineyard. While that wasn’t a real job, I decided to start acting like it on the weekends and in my free time outside of my 9-5.

For me, I built Vineyard Icon like a brand, not just a one off event, because that’s exactly how I see it. Every decision, from the honorees we recognize and the stories we tell to the partnerships we pursue and the scholarship we launched, is meant to reinforce a larger purpose. This is much bigger than an awards ceremony. Over time, it will continue to grow into multiple platforms, experiences, partnerships, and initiatives, all centered around celebrating legacy, community, and impact.

Building this from the ground up challenged me to apply everything I had learned throughout my marketing career. I led our PR strategy, securing coverage in Forbes, EBONY, and the Vineyard Gazette. I led our social media strategy, growing our audience to more than 15,000 followers in just a few months through consistent storytelling and community engagement. I developed the brand positioning, visual identity, logo, and thought intentionally about how I wanted every touchpoint to feel.

It’s one thing to help grow some of the world’s most established brands, but I wanted to know if I could take those same principles and build something meaningful completely from scratch.

Vineyard Icon gave me that answer.

Building Vineyard Icon required the same skills I’ve relied on 36 www.uptownmagazine.com

throughout my marketing career: developing a long term vision, building relationships, earning trust, telling compelling stories, creating strategic partnerships, and being resilient enough to hear “no” from people who simply couldn’t see the vision yet.

Ultimately, Vineyard Icon has reinforced something I’ve believed throughout my career: marketing isn’t just about building brands. At its best, it’s about building communities, creating culture, and inspiring people to believe in something bigger than themselves.

UPTOWN: You balance a successful corporate career with building Vineyard Icon. How has your experience in brand marketing shaped the way you’ve developed this platform?

ERIN: Understanding the full spectrum of marketing has been invaluable, but if I had to choose one thing, it would be storytelling.

Every great brand tells a story that people want to be part of. It has a clear purpose, a distinct point of view, and every touchpoint reinforces what it stands for.

That’s exactly how I’ve approached Vineyard Icon. Every partnership, every honoree, every scholarship, every event, and every piece of content should reinforce who we are and why we exist.

I’ve never wanted Vineyard Icon to feel like a one day event. I’ve wanted it to feel like a brand that people believe in and want to be part of. Whether someone attends the awards, follows us on social media, receives a scholarship, or simply reads one of our stories, I want them to walk away with the same feeling and understanding of our mission.

That’s something my marketing career taught me. Brands aren’t built through one great campaign or one great event.

They’re built through consistency, trust, and delivering on your purpose over time.

That’s ultimately what Vineyard Icon is all about: celebrating the people, preserving the legacy, and strengthening the community that make Martha’s Vineyard unlike anywhere else.

A VINEYARD VISION UPTOWN: The Vineyard Icon Awards manifested from a vision you had. Tell us the journey from seeing to solidifying.

ERIN: Every summer, the Vineyard is filled with incredible corporate events, and I genuinely love attending them. But I realized many of those events were centered around the companies themselves rather than the people who make Martha’s Vineyard so special.

When I thought about what truly makes the Vineyard magical, the answer was always the people. As a marketer, you’re always looking for the insight. For me, the insight was that while there were wonderful events happening on the island, there wasn’t one dedicated to celebrating the people whose leadership, creativity, generosity, and contributions have shaped its legacy.

That’s where Vineyard Icon came from.

Last year, I booked the venue in May. At that point, I didn’t have

“Looking back, I’m grateful

I didn’t wait for permission or perfect timing. If I had, Vineyard Icon might still just be an idea instead of something that’s already making an impact.”

So many people encouraged me to wait. But my friend Annmarie, who has been a sounding board through this all said something that has stayed with me: “They don’t know what you’re capable of. They’re answering from their own vantage point.”

That completely shifted my perspective. It reminded me that sometimes the person who can see the vision has to be the one willing to build it.

The experience also taught me that confidence doesn’t come before you begin, it comes from taking the first step and figuring things out along the way. Every challenge forced me to become more resourceful, more resilient, and more confident in my ability to lead.

Looking back, I’m grateful I didn’t wait for permission or perfect timing. If I had, Vineyard Icon might still just be an idea instead of something that’s already making an impact. a single sponsor secured or a single honoree confirmed. All I had was a vision and a belief that it was worth pursuing. Somehow, in just two months, it all came together. I spent my evenings after work and dedicated nearly every weekend to bringing it to life. There was something incredibly therapeutic about taking an idea that existed only in your head and watching it become something real that other people could experience.

UPTOWN: Many people attend events on the Vineyard each summer. What did you feel was missing that Vineyard Icon was uniquely positioned to create?

ERIN: The Vineyard has an incredible summer calendar, and I genuinely enjoy attending so many of the events. They each serve an important purpose and bring something unique to the community.

That journey reminded me that every brand, every movement, and every meaningful idea starts the same way. Someone decides to believe in a vision before anyone else can see it.

UPTOWN: You successfully launched the inaugural Vineyard Icon Awards in a remarkably short period of time. What did that experience teach you about trusting your instincts and leading with purpose?

ERIN: I learned that sometimes it’s better to get out and try something than spend years waiting for the perfect moment.

You can learn so much in a short period of time.

Creating Vineyard Icon was one of the first times I truly felt like I was trusting my instincts and leading with what I knew to be true.

What I felt was missing wasn’t another event. It was an event centered on the people who make Martha’s Vineyard special, not the organizations hosting it.

I wanted to create something where the community itself was the brand. A place where business leaders, artists, public servants, entrepreneurs, multigenerational Vineyard families, first time visitors, and changemakers could all come together to celebrate the people and stories that have shaped the island.

I also wanted to create an event where people left feeling inspired. Not just by the honorees, but by the realization that every one of us has the opportunity to leave a legacy and make an impact in our own way.

That’s what makes Vineyard Icon different. It’s not simply about recognizing icons. It’s about inspiring the next generation of them.

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UPTOWN: How do you define an icon?

ERIN: My goal with the Vineyard Icon Awards was to fill the room with icons.

That was intentional. I wanted students to begin thinking about leadership and legacy long before they reached the pinnacle of their careers.

I didn’t just want the honorees to be iconic. I wanted everyone in attendance to leave thinking about the icon within themselves.

One of our scholarship recipients shared that while he was incredibly grateful for the award, he ultimately had to transfer schools because he couldn’t afford the remaining cost. That truly broke my heart, and it reinforced how important this work is. It reminded me that while recognition is meaningful, creating opportunity can change someone’s life.

That same philosophy carries through to our scholarship.

One of the application questions we ask is, “What makes you a future icon?” because we want students to start thinking about the impact they hope to have long before they’ve reached the pinnacle of their careers.

To me, an icon is someone who leads by example, leaves a place better than they found it, creates opportunities for others, and paves a path that someone else can follow.

Being an icon has very little to do with fame. It has everything to do with impact. The people I admire most aren’t iconic because they’re well known. They’re iconic because they’ve made a lasting difference in the lives of others.

UPTOWN: Your vision extends well beyond an annual awards ceremony, including scholarships and the Next Gen Summit. What impact do you hope those initiatives will have on future generations?

ERIN: In less than a year, we launched the Vineyard Icon Scholarship, something I’m incredibly proud of. We had nearly 200 students apply from 85 different colleges, and every applicant had to answer questions about what makes them an icon, what legacy means to them, and something they’ve had to overcome.

Coming to Martha’s Vineyard is a privilege, and I hope the spirit of the Vineyard can live on through the scholarship by creating opportunities for young people, whether they’ve ever stepped foot on the island or not.

I love imagining that ten years from now one of our scholarship recipients visits the Vineyard because of the connection they first made through us. Or perhaps they’re interviewing for a job, mention Vineyard Icon, and immediately create a meaningful connection with someone who shares ties to the island.

To me, that’s what real impact looks like. It’s creating opportunities, opening doors, and building connections that continue long after the scholarship is awarded or the event is over.

That’s the kind of ripple effect I hope Vineyard Icon creates for generations to come.

To read the entire story, visit www.uptownmagazine.com

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THE MILLION DOLLAR MINDSET

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Five Financial Habits That Build Wealth, Confidence and Legacy

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or generations, success has often been measured by the things we can see: a beautiful home, a thriving business, a luxury vacation, or the car parked in the driveway. Yet ask financially successful people what wealth really feels like, and many will tell you it has less to do with possessions than with peace of mind. Real wealth is the confidence that comes from knowing your family is protected, your future is funded, and your dreams have a plan behind them.

According to Northwestern Mutual’s Planning & Progress Study, many Americans with more than $1 million in investable assets don’t necessarily define themselves as “wealthy.” What they do share is a sense of financial preparedness and confidence that comes from intentional planning. Their habits offer valuable lessons for anyone seeking to build lasting financial security— not just for today, but for generations to come.

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BY UPTOWN MAGAZINE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

They Think Beyond Today

Financially successful people begin with a vision. They define where they want to be five, ten, or twenty years from now, then make today’s financial decisions with those goals in mind. Whether it’s preparing children for college, caring for aging parents, starting a business, or enjoying a fulfilling retirement, a written plan transforms aspirations into actionable steps.

They Revisit the Plan

Life changes constantly. Careers evolve, families grow, businesses expand, and markets fluctuate. Rather than creating a financial plan once and putting it on a shelf, successful individuals revisit it regularly. Just as annual health checkups help maintain physical wellness, periodic financial reviews help ensure your plan continues to reflect your life and priorities.

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They Save with Purpose

Successful investors don’t simply save because they know they should. They save toward clearly defined goals.

Understanding how much retirement income you’ll need or what legacy you hope to leave makes every saving and investing decision more intentional.

They Pay Themselves First

One of the most enduring wealth-building habits is remarkably simple: prioritize saving before discretionary spending. Automating savings and investing consistently helps build long-term financial resilience while allowing today’s spending to align with tomorrow’s goals.

They Build a Trusted Team

Perhaps the most overlooked lesson is that successful people rarely do it alone. Many affluent households work with trusted financial professionals to help navigate investments, insurance, taxes, retirement, and estate planning.

Having experienced guidance can provide clarity through changing markets and life transitions.

For many Black families, wealth today represents something larger than personal success. It means creating opportunities that previous generations may never have had. It means funding education, supporting entrepreneurship, preserving family assets, and passing along knowledge as well as financial resources. Financial planning is ultimately about creating freedom—the freedom to make choices, pursue passions, care for loved ones, and leave a lasting legacy.

The journey toward financial confidence does not begin with reaching a certain income level. It begins with a decision to create a plan. Whether you’re just beginning your wealth-building journey or refining an established strategy, thoughtful planning can help turn today’s ambitions into tomorrow’s legacy.

Financial confidence starts with a conversation. Working with a trusted Northwestern Mutual financial advisor can help you build a personalized strategy designed around your goals, your family, and the legacy you hope to create.

For more information: www.northwesternmutual.com/nurture/ partnership-uptown

Luxury to the Max

BY UPTOWN STAFF

They say home is where your style lives—we say, Corey Damen Jenkins knows the address. In conversation with UPTOWN, Interior designer and author of Design Reimagined: A Fresh and Colorful Take on Timeless Rooms, Jenkins shares his signature approach to design proving that luxury isn’t about excess, but about intention, and impeccable curation. He also opens the doors to his maximalist masterpiece—the stunning Upper East Side residence of his client, real estate developer and vineyard vacationer Erika Faye Jones, whose vibrant lifestyle he so luxuriously captured.

UPTOWN: As a Black designer leading one of the industry’s premier firms, how important is representation in shaping the future of luxury design?

COREY DAMEN JENKINS (CDJ): When one considers American History down through the centuries, historically, luxury industries like interior design and decoration have excluded people who looked like me. Think about it: my ancestors were forced to work *outside* in the fields, or as slaves performing menial tasks within the home on behalf of others. They certainly weren’t presiding *inside* the house over matters of taste, beauty, and etiquette. They weren’t key decision makers. So, I’m standing squarely on the shoulders of many souls long gone who fought to pry these doors of opportunity open for me. I am living the dream they suffered for. So, I have a responsibility to keep these doors open and assist the next generation of rising talents. I’ve always told myself that if I ever made it to the top, I wouldn’t pull the ladder up after myself: I’d leave it down for others to climb.

And that includes leaving the rungs *in the ladder*, because a pair of stilts aren’t helpful in the struggle. Representation matters enormously.

UPTOWN: Every home tells a story. When you begin working with a client, what are you listening for beyond the aesthetic?

CDJ: Beyond aesthetics, I’m always listening to what is said and what is left unsaid. Who is this client? What is their world view?

How do they define a house vs. a home? As I mentioned in the last chapter of Design Reimagined, I’m a big advocate for design 42 www.uptownmagazine.com

democracy, meaning every project is a joint undertaking--a partnership. That means honoring the homeowner’s history rather than papering over it. This includes bringing forward pieces that matter to their family, and handling anything personal with real care and empathy. My goal is to keep their best interests at heart and to be intentional with every choice. Doing so ensures the finished project feels authentically theirs. No one should feel disenfranchised within the interiors of their own home.

UPTOWN: Many people believe luxury requires an unlimited budget. What’s the biggest misconception people have about creating a beautifully designed home?

CDJ: Real luxury is less about how much you spend and more about how intentionally you spend your resources. My philosophy has always been this: my job isn’t to save you money. As a creative fiduciary, my job is to help you invest and spend your resources wisely. And if you spend wisely, you’ll always end up saving both time and money.

UPTOWN: Martha’s Vineyard has long inspired a distinct design aesthetic—where coastal ease meets understated elegance. What makes a summer home truly exceptional?

CDJ: The best summer home is designed around how a client actually lives. For one of our most recent projects, that meant utilizing durable finishes that could stand up to entertaining, children, and pets, balanced with genuine touches of fine craftsmanship.

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I also believe in blurring the line between interior and exterior design. I treat outdoor terraces and verandas as their own series of rooms, with dining and lounging zones and materials that hold up to the weather. On one terrace, we mounted antique blueand-white porcelain plates onto custom-fabricated metal grilles for the walls, a decorative flourish designed to hold up to the elements just as well as it would inside. When you solve for beauty and function at the same time, everything else falls into place.

hand-painted Gracie wall mural’s landscape blends almost seamlessly with the real Central Park views outside, so you can’t quite tell where the artistry ends and the city begins.

These are joyful interiors. But symbolically-speaking, the choice was appropos because the home also represents the reimagining of Erika’s life and that of her two daughters: they were relocating to New York City to pursue new beginnings as a family.

UPTOWN: Where do you find inspiration when you’re not designing? Travel, fashion, art, architecture—or somewhere unexpected?

CDJ:Fashion runways are a real source for me. Designers take risks that translate beautifully into interiors. I’ll choose the palette first, then find an architectural detail, a column or molding for example, and then layer those elements with something rich and unexpected. This concept is really nothing new—from classical Florentine rooms to Rococo, the boldest, most memorable works have always come from artists unafraid of color and ornamentation. I also look to organic nature—some of the most incredible color schemes are found within the petals of a flower.

UPTOWN: Erika proudly considers herself a maximalist; and you fabulously translated her personality into a livable work of art. But maximalism is often misunderstood as simply “more.”

How do you define maximalism, and how did you ensure Erika’s home felt curated rather than cluttered?

CDJ: While I always say that “more is more” (and less is a bore!), the truth is the best maximalism is actually governed by restraint. Every layer in Erika’s home, from the emerald grass cloth ceiling to the Gracie wall murals, was chosen to balance and complement each other. The discipline is found within judicious editing, not the sheer excess of quantity.

UPTOWN: Your book is titled Design Reimagined. Beyond interiors, what does “designing a life” mean to you?

CDJ: It means understanding that reinvention almost always starts with some upheaval. You have to let the old version go before something better can take shape. My return to New York taught me firsthand that broken crayons still color and delays do not mean denial. Designing a life requires the same discipline as designing a room: it takes patience, thoughtful strategy, and an unshakable faith that what’s coming next will be worth the wait.

UPTOWN: Tell us about your firm CDJ & Associates and the services they offer.

CDJ: Corey Damen Jenkins & Associates is a full-service interior design and architecture firm built around the idea that every project should be a genuine collaboration, where the client and I share equity in the vision from day one. We handle projects at every scale and stage, from ground-up architectural collaboration to full gut renovations to the layering-in of furnishings, art, and antiques that give a home its soul. I think of the process the way I’d think of producing a song: there’s the concept, then the performance of bringing contractors and craftspeople together, and finally the installation. Each phase demands its own expertise, but when we coordinate our efforts together, the end result is visually harmonious.

A MAXIMALIST MINDSET UPTOWN: The cover feature of your book is the NYC home of Erika Faye Jones, and frequent Vineyard Vacationer. Tell us why you chose that particular image to headline this book.

CDJ: That dining room sums up what Design Reimagined is about. Silver-leafed de Gournay panels with monkeys cavorting through palm branches, walls and ceiling entirely coated in a plum lacquer, a circa-1920s palmette chandelier that took over eight hours just to assemble. And just beyond it, the 44 www.uptownmagazine.com

UPTOWN: The home is filled with bold color, layered textures, and statementmaking moments, yet it still feels elegant and cohesive. What was your approach to achieving that balance?

CDJ: The interior design’s cohesion was really driven by the narrative--the story we wanted the home to tell about Erika, her family, and the legacy they were building in this “house for girls”.

For example, the Front Hall’s walls are wrapped with a silk embroidered de Gournay mural. There’s an oversized peacock woven into the wall space flanking the right side of the formal dining room’s entry. That peacock represents Erika, while another two smaller peacocks on the left side symbolize her young daughters. It’s all very subtle, but it’s still story-telling. So even the boldest rooms feel like chapters of the same story rather than competing statements.

UPTOWN: What conversations or discoveries during the design process surprised you most about Erika as a client?

CDJ: What surprised me most was her willingness to go bolder.

Even late in the process, she pushed for more rather than pulling back. That’s rare and I loved that for us!

UPTOWN: If someone were to walk through Erika’s front door for the first time, what do you hope they experience within the first 30 seconds?

CDJ: Sheer, unmitigated joy and optimism. I designed that Front Hall to feel like you’re stepping into a jewel box—glamorous, layered, and unmistakably feminine. While there should certainly be a sense of elegance and refinement, the bottom line is this home is a portrait of a young family reimagining their lives within its walls.

Thanks to Corey, we’re reminded that maximalism isn’t about having more; it’s about living more beautifully. Because luxury isn’t measured by square footage, but in how a home makes you feel the moment you walk through the door.

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PHOTO CREDIT: ANDREW FRASZ

Champagne Life

BY UPTOWN STAFF

Fresh from the vineyards of France, Marvina Robinson, founder and CEO of B. Stuyvesant Champagne, shares with UPTOWN why luxury isn’t simply defined by what fills the glass—it’s about the story behind the pour. Her champagne house is redefining what legacy looks like, one elegant sip at a time. And as Ne-Yo famously said, “Dreams and reality are one and the same.” Marvina is living proof. So, let’s raise a glass and toast to the Champagne Life.

UPTOWN: The name “B. Stuyvesant” pays homage to the Brooklyn neighborhood where you were born and raised. Tell us how your upbringing inspired your Champagne dream.

MARVINA: Wherever I go in the world, I’m a true Brooklyn girl. Growing up in Bedford-Stuyvesant taught me resilience, creativity and pride. It is a neighborhood filled with entrepreneurs, artists and people who know how to create opportunities where others may not see them. While champagne wasn’t part of my everyday life growing up, excellence was. When I created B. Stuyvesant Champagne, I wanted to honor where I came from while showing the world that a luxury champagne house could carry the name of my community with pride.

Every bottle represents my journey from Brooklyn to Champagne, France and reminds people that your beginnings do not define your destination.

MARVINA: I’m a visionary. Everything I build begins as a dream, but I’ve always believed dreams deserve a strategy.

Once I have a vision, I become relentless about bringing it to life. Outside of business, I love creating experiences for people.

I enjoy hosting dinner parties, cooking for family and friends, traveling and discovering new places. Some of my favorite memories have been gathered around a table with great food, meaningful conversation and of course champagne. While I’m incredibly proud of B. Stuyvesant Champagne, I’m also a true champagne lover. I tend to gravitate toward grower Champagnes because of their individuality and sense of place but there are certainly some historic houses that I enjoy as well.

Above all, I believe champagne is about connection and those shared moments are what inspire me most.

UPTOWN: Your journey began in Brooklyn, yet your brand now has international recognition. What was the defining moment when you realized this vision could become something much bigger?

MARVINA: There wasn’t one defining moment, it happened through a collection of moments that reminded me this was becoming something much bigger than I imagined. Watching people, I’ve never met celebrate birthdays, anniversaries and milestones with B. Stuyvesant Champagne has been incredibly rewarding. Receiving a request to have B. Stuyvesant Champagne poured at the Louvre Museum was another surreal moment. Those experiences, along with national recognition from publications like The New York Times, Essence and Robb Report, reinforced that we weren’t simply building a champagne house, we were becoming part of people’s celebrations around the world.

UPTOWN: Now that we know more about B. Stuyvesant Champagne. Who is Marvina Robinson?

WALL STREET TO WINEMAKER

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UPTOWN: Before living the champagne life, you had a career on Wall Street. What was the catalyst for changing careers?

MARVINA: After nearly two decades on Wall Street, I realized I wanted to build something that would become part of my legacy. Interestingly, studying champagne had become my hobby long before it became my business. Whenever I traveled to France, my happiest moments were spent exploring the Champagne region. I would rent a car with no map, no itinerary and no agenda, simply driving through villages, discovering producers and following wherever the day took me. Those weekends became my classroom. Looking back, I didn’t realize it then, but I was slowly preparing for the next chapter of my life.

UPTOWN: Representation matters in every industry. How does it feel to be one of the first Black American women to own a champagne house?

MARVINA: It is both an incredible honor and a tremendous responsibility. The reality is that building a business as a Black founder can be incredibly challenging. Access to capital continues to be one of the biggest obstacles and often you must prove yourself repeatedly in rooms where others may be given the benefit of the doubt. That’s why representation matters. I hope when people see B. Stuyvesant Champagne, they don’t just see a bottle, they see possibility. I want aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women and entrepreneurs of color to know that they belong in every industry, including luxury. My hope is that the next generation won’t be defined as “the first” because there will be so many of us that it simply becomes the norm.

SPARKLING SUCCESS UPTOWN: Martha’s Vineyard has long served as a gathering place for generations of Black excellence, entrepreneurship and community. What makes the Island such an important place for your brand?

MARVINA: My relationship with Martha’s Vineyard began unexpectedly. I first came to the Island to participate in a wine event and what started as a business trip quickly became something much more meaningful. For years I spent my summers traveling

throughout Europe, but Martha’s Vineyard offered a different kind of luxury, one rooted in community, tradition and genuine connection. As I’ve continued visiting, I’ve made it a point to experience the Island beyond the summer season. There’s something incredibly peaceful about Martha’s Vineyard in the off-season that many people never get to experience. It has allowed me to appreciate not only the beauty of the Island but also the people who make it such a special place year-round.

For B. Stuyvesant, it feels like a natural home.

UPTOWN: Tell us about the B. Stuyvesant Champagne events taking place on the Vineyard.

MARVINA: This summer we’re bringing a series of thoughtfully curated champagne experiences to Martha’s Vineyard that celebrate hospitality, education and connection. Whether guests join us for an intimate tasting or one of our signature mobile champagne experiences, every event is designed to make champagne approachable while maintaining the elegance and craftsmanship that define B. Stuyvesant.

For the latest event schedule and details, guests can visit the Events section of www.stuyvesantchampagne.com. www.uptownmagazine.com 47

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PHOTO CREDIT: TK

LEGENDARY GLAMMA

Legendary Glamma began as a simple creative experiment between a fashion stylist Diana Kalezhi and her grandmother, Margaret Chola, inspired by a desire to reimagine high fashion through the lens of rural Zambia. What started as a playful wardrobe exchange evolved into a powerful visual narrative that resonated with audiences around the world.

Today, the project stands as a celebration of intergenerational style, cultural heritage, and the enduring beauty of aging—challenging conventional ideas of fashion while honoring the women whose grace, strength, and presence transcend generations.

48 www.uptownmagazine.com

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