The STYLE Issue
RACHEL SCHOSTAK SHARES FALL RUNWAY TRENDS PEEK INSIDE THE BIRMINGHAM HOUSE TOUR THE ART OF COLLECTING
FLORIDA EXPRESS JET CLUB
Oakland County International Airport
The Florida Express Jet Club simplifies private jet travel with unique “Travel Zone” pricing. Travel is good for any direct flights to/from any Florida airport to anywhere on the zone map with locations east of the Mississippi River. Scan the QR code to learn more about this program!
Create Where You Belong
The Style Issue
It's time to celebrate what makes each of us uniquely stylish. The world of fashion and style is an ever-evolving tapestry, woven with threads of individuality, creativity, and self-expression. In this special Style Issue, we delve into the heart of what it means to embrace your personal flair and make bold statements without uttering a word.
Style is not just about the clothes we wear but the way we carry ourselves, the choices we make, and the confidence we exude. It’s in the details of a carefully chosen accessory, the unexpected pop of color, or the timeless elegance of a well-tailored suit. This issue is dedicated to exploring how we can all harness the power of style to not only look good but feel good too.
As you flip through the pages of this Style Issue, remember that the best accessory you can wear is confidence. Embrace the styles that resonate with you, and don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. After all, true style is about being unapologetically you.
Stay stylish and confident,
KRAMER, PUBLISHER
September 2024
PUBLISHER
Ali Kramer | ali.kramer@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Lynne Konstantin | lynne.konstantin@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Rayna Southart | rayna.southart@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Lisa Gindi | lisa.gindi@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Megan Hoban, Cate Marian, Susan Thwing
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Shankar Iyer, Martin Vecchio
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
inside the issue
Stylist Rachel Schostak scoops on what’s
Serenity Now
Take a sneak peek inside this historic and functional Birmingham oasis, part of the Birmingham House Tour.
Local Kurt Delfin
Stylist Rachel Schostak gives the scoop on hot fall trends, like this leather skirt from Anthropologie. See "Fall Fashion Edit" for more.
Meredith Colburn | Associate Broker/Team Leader, Nanci J. Rands | Associate Broker, Jessica Weisman | Realtor®
Adriane Dundon | Realtor®, Caroline Johnson | Realtor®, Lauren Colburn | Marketing Director/Realtor®
Caroline Keating | Realtor®, Brooke Goodstein | Director of Operations/Realtor®
city scene
1: At the Cranbrook Tennis Classic in Bloomfield Hills, an annual ATP Challenger Tour event founded by David DeMuth, June 30-July 7. 1: Coach Murry, Andres Martin, Owen DeMuth. 2: A ball kid shows off his signed forehead. 3: Kasia Bennett, Alex DeMuth. 4: Ozan Baris. 5: Pablo Nunez watches the match. 6: Singles champion Learner Tien, Kasia Bennett and singles finalist Nishesh Basavareddy. 7: Ernesto Escobedo.
Photography by Shankar Iyer
DZINLY LAUNCHES REALTOR PACKAGE
Helping homeowners reimagine their home's exterior with expert recommendations on colors, materials, even architecture with their virtual technology platform, Dzinly’s toggle function ensures perfect selections. Now, the Royal Oak-based company (helmed by COO Jackie Mosher) offers realtors the option to showcase diverse design options, increasing exposure and interest, with a realtor-specific membership (as well as memberships for builders and trades), transforming niche appeal into mass desirability. Dzinly.com.
KUDOS TO JASON GEISZ
Jason M. Geisz, CFP, co-founder and CEO of Famiglia Wealth in Bloomfield Hills with almost 25 years of wealth-advisory experi ence, was recently ranked No. 27 on AdvisorHub’s 2024 250 Advisors to Watch Under $1Bil. More accolades for Geisz, of Birmingham: On July 20, he won the Queen’s Cup — a 74-mile sailboat race across Lake Michigan from Milwaukee, Wis., to South Haven. Sailing a Santa Cruz 70 named “Evolution,” his crew won their class and overall.
WARNER NORCROSS + JUDD NAMED IN BEST LAW FIRMS
Warner Norcross + Judd LLP was ranked one of the Top 10 Best Law Firms to Work For by Vault! Based on a survey of over 20,000 associates at large law firms across the country, Vault’s annual rankings of the 50 Best Law Firms to Work For high light several aspects of workplace satisfaction: current career outlook, the quality of work assignments they receive, their firm’s commitment to diversity and their compensation package, among other factors.
THE FLORIDA EXPRESS JET CLUB
Josh Birmingham, a 15,000-hour corporate pilot and entrepreneur, founded Premier Private Jets in 2013. Now, in an effort to create customized packages of services, he is introducing the Florida Express Jet Club, simplifying private jet travel with unique “Travel Zone” pricing. Travel is good for any direct flights to/from any Florida airport to anywhere on the zone map with locations east of the Mississippi River. Premierprivatejets.com
FRANKLIN CIDER MILL READY FOR FALL
Take a fun-filled visit to the family-owned, Franklin Cider Mill! Opening August 31, it’s a fall tradition not to be missed, with hot cider, fresh apples, donuts, and caramel apples. The tremendously popular Franklin Tent offers a variety of Michigan homemade jams, maple syrup, honey, salsas, meats, cheeses, and more! At the Apple Shack, purchase a fresh selection of seasonal apples by the ½ peck (6 lbs) and bushel (40 lbs). For more information, visit franklincidermill.com
FALL FASHION EDIT
Stylist Rachel Schostak scoops on what’s hot for the season.
Known for her exquisite taste, Rachel Schostak has made a successful career out of a passion for having her finger on the pulse of fashion. The Birmingham-based fashion consultant and stylist — and busy mom to three young children — gave us a rundown of fall 2024’s hottest trends.
“Overall, there are six big trends for the upcoming season,” Schostak says, and many of them are easily interchangeable and easy to dress up or down, whether you’re taking the kids to a playdate, a business lunch or date night.
ARTICLE BY LYNNE KONSTANTIN
SUITING/BLAZERS/TROUSERS
Last season’s trend of tailoring and suiting is carrying over: blazers in all different colors, paired with leather pants, suit pants, wide-leg pants. “Mix-and-match blazers with denim,” Schostak says. “And big shoulders are back — if you’re going to the office, you can put together a chic blazer with pants or a skirt suit, a pleated skirt or leather pants. And it doesn’t have to break the bank. For a mom, a blazer over leggings or denim elevates the everyday look.” Brands to try: For a luxury runway look, check out Tom Ford’s tuxedo blazer, Dolce & Gabbana, Michael Kors — and Stella McCartney is making a statement with bold shoulders. “Max Mara is great for coats and blazers as well as Sportmax, a subset of Max Mara,” she says. She also likes Veronica Beard, Carbon 38, Bandier for modern, easy activewear and Varley is a wearable everyday brand.
“Wide legs in general are everywhere, and here to stay for a while. Favorite Daughter has a wide-leg trouser with matching vest — you can take it from summer to fall by starting with a base layer of a tank or bodysuit, then a vest if it’s warmer and add a turtleneck or long-sleeve bodysuit, layered with a leather jacket or a long blazer,” she says.
1. Tommy Hilfiger’s Fall/Winter 2024 Runway elevated ’90s prep classics into quiet luxury — like these tailored yet relaxed pieces: broad shouldered blazer, short vest and loose trousers, in delicious earthtones and red houndstooth. Usa.tommy.com
2. Long-and-lean versatile Square-Neck Tweed Vest with patch pockets by Maeve. Area Anthropologie stores; anthropologie.com
3. Strong shoulders, double-breasted and oversized Aimee Boyfriend Blazer by L’Agence in lush tan, teal and red plaid. Guys N Gals, West Bloomfield; shopguysngals
4. L’Agence’s best-selling Zander Mini Skirt in fall-ready tan, teal and red plaid. Guys N Gals, West Bloomfield; shopguysngals.com
5. Pretty power suiting: immaculately constructed Sculpted Double-Breasted Blazer and Trouser in Dusty Pink on Stella McCartney’s Fall 2024 Runway. Stellamccartney.com
6. Like wearing sweatpants to work: The Emerson Bootcut Pants from Fifteen Twenty gives stretch comfort detailed with elegant mini houndstooth pattern and front pintucks. Rear Ends, Bloomfield Hills; shoprearends.com
7. The softly structured Babaton DeNiro Vest (“as versatile as the actor”) has a classic fit and princess seams — pair it with the Babaton Pleated Pants. Area Aritzia stores; aritzia.com
8. The Patch Pocket Duchess Blazer is a best-selling silhouette from Smythe (a favorite of Kate Middleton’s) — this one is detailed with brass hardware and contrast leather elbow patches. Shopsmythe.com
DENIM
1. Colored denim is here. Made of cotton and Tencel, these relaxed-fit, wide-leg, high-rise Tide Jeans from Cos are lightweight comfort. Area Nordstrom stores; nordstrom.com
9. The perfect accessory for every pair of denim (and skirts, suits and more): Favorite Daughter’s no-fuss, tailored Take Me Seriously Bodysuit never comes untucked. Shopfavoritedaughter.com 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
2. Good American’s tummy-smoothing Good Waist Palazzo Jeans are high rise with wide loose legs and a front-seam detail. Rear Ends, Bloomfield Hills; shoprearends.com
3. Wide-Leg Denim from Mother falls crisply to the toes. Guys N Gals, West Bloomfield; shopguysngals.com
4. Wren Cinch Back Vest in Vintage Horizon Wash is part of Bella Dahl’s Soft Structure Collection. Rear Ends, Bloomfield Hills; shoprearends.com
5. High Waisted Cropped Trousers by Sportmax, a collection from MaxMara, have a pressed pleat and distressed wash. Sportmax at MaxMara, Troy; us.sportmax.com
6. Rag & Bone Jaiden Denim Shirt Jacket in a lightweight rigid denim. Found Objects, Birmingham; shopfoundobjects.com
7. Agolde 90s Crop Mid-Rise Loose Straight-Leg Jeans. Area Anthropologie stores; anthropologie.com
8. Committed to Fit Denim Jacket and Front Slit Denim Midi Skirt by Good American. Area Nordstrom stores; nordstrom.com.
“Denim is big here in the Midwest and in general,” Schostak says. “The wide leg that was popular last season has carried over through the summer and it’s not slowing down for fall.” Wide-leg jeans can be cropped or drape beyond the toe — same as trousers. The cropped jean is also seen in boyfriend and baggy styles; straight leg and barrel leg, almost tapered, is also making a comeback. Insider tip: “If a skinny jean works for your body, wear it,” she says. “It’s not trending right now, but I’m a big believer in wearing what works best for you.” Brands to try: Classic Levi’s have come back; “they do a good job of selling to every different body type,” Schostak says. Agolde has great straight legs and cropped, while Citizens of Humanity offer a more affordable price point. Cos does wide legs, and are great for the “elevated Birmingham mom,” she says. “And Good American caters to all different sizes.”
KNITS
Textural knitted sweaters are classics that go with every current trend. Sweaters, vests, dresses and skirts are on the runway. Brands to try: Stella McCartney, Veronica Beard, Autumn Cashmere. Warm neutrals as well as bright colors — like red, poppy, oxblood and more.
1. Tommy Hilfiger’s Preppy Sweater Dress in ivory. Usa.tommy.com
2. Alpaca wool Cable Knit Cape Jumper in Neon Green, from Stella McCartney. Stellamccartney.com
3. The pure-wool Cropped Mock Polo-Neck Sweater from Sportmax has a relaxed fit and waist length. Sportmax at MaxMara, Troy; us.sportmax.com
4. Lots of layers: Tommy Hilfiger’s Crest Classics Breton Stripe Cardi Sweater is paired with Archive Ithaca Shirt, Crest Classics Breton Stripe Tank Sweater, Crest Classics Pleated Denim Mini Skirt, Naval Cable Beanie and Premium Leather Long Boot. Usa.tommy.com
5. Seen on Tommy Hilfiger’s Fall/Winter 2024 Runway — oversized cable knit turtleneck paired with a pleated tweed skirt. Usa.tommy.com
6. Splendid’s Lizzie Short Sleeve Sweater is boxy with beautiful details. Splendid.com
7. Stella McCartney’s cozy, slouchy Tiger Pattern Open-Knit Sweater is spun from RAS-certified wool in an
silhouette.
LEATHER
“Leather is all over the runway, in pants, blaz ers, skirts, dresses — even long Matrix-style coats,” Schostak says. “Norma Kamali has a gorgeous long coat. She does a good job of elevated, simple pieces.” Style note: “Dress for your body, regardless of the trend. I can’t do a long leather jacket, for example, but I can do a shorter, belted version or a moto jacket,” she says. “It’s really easy for everyone to find something that works.”
2. A classic calfskin Leather Jacket with a clean design has feminine proportions and men’s-style turn-back cuffs. Sportmax at MaxMara, Troy; us.sportmax.com
stores; anthropologie.com
1. Sportmax’s calfskin Leather Skirt falls from a low waist in a clean, straight line. Sportmax at MaxMara, Troy; us.sportmax.com
3. By Anthropologie’s Faux Leather Pleated Midi Skirt has a soft viscose lining. Area Anthropologie
4. This caramel-colored Glossy Leather Belted Long Trench Coat from Chloe is so buttery soft you can almost taste it. Neiman Marcus, Troy; neimanmarcus.com
5. The Mischa Super High Rise Wide Leg in Chocolate Leather by Favorite Daughter — perfection. Shopfavoritedaughter.com
OUTERWEAR
Going into fall and winter, Schostak says, the outerwear trends are wide shoulders in jackets. “The pea coat has made a return, but with a modern take — it’s not your grandfather’s pea coat,” she says. Penny Lane coats (referencing the character in Almost Famous , taking place in the 1970s) have shearling detail around the collar and lapel.
“The sturdy trenchcoat is very much in, same as last season,” Schostak says. Brands to try: Max Mara and Ralph Lauren are classics. Style note: “I feel very strongly that you don’t need to break the bank to try some of these trends,” she says. “The Gap has a timeless trench, for example. You can pick a few pieces that you want to invest in, and the rest can be more affordable.”
1. Seen on Tommy Hilfiger’s Fall/Winter 2024 Runway — tailored women’s coats crafted from camel wool. Usa.tommy.com
2. Saint Laurent’s double-breasted Belted Long Trench Coat features a two-way ulster collar, made with certified cotton, and buttoned epaulets. Area Neiman Marcus stores; neimanmarcus.com
3. Tommy Hilfiger Naval Pea Coat in Ivory. Usa.tommy.com
4. Virgin wool, horn-look buttons, a wide lapel collar: Sportmax’s double-breasted herringbonepatterned Oversized Pea Coat has it all. Sportmax at MaxMara, Troy; us.sportmax.com
5. From the Gap, the Icon Trench has a relaxed, slightly oversized fit. Area Gap stores; gap.com
COUNTRY GIRL
“The country girl trend offers an elevated approach to Western styles, like plaids and checkered-motifs on long dresses, suede cowboy boots and tall brown boots,” Schostak says. Brands to try: “Even Chanel has some Western-inspire patterns on their classic jacket this season, and Chloe has a beautiful long green-plaid cape coat,” she says. “A turtleneck under a trenchcoat has a country-girl vibe, and fabrics and patterns are relaxed and elevated, like tweeds and herringbones.”
1. Tommy Hilfiger Tie-Waist Shirtdress. Usa.tommy.com
2. Doen’s super-feminine Ischia Dress in Chrysanthemum Sky Floral — with smocked bodice and ankle-grazing skirt — is inspired by a 1930s Liberty Fabrics print impression discovered in the Liberty archive. Shopdoen.com
3. Dolce Vita Raj Western Boot offers a rich, modern take on cowboy boots. Sundance Shoes, Birmingham; sundanceshoes.com
4. Ulla Johnson’s deep-claret cotton-denim Naomi Jacket has lace-up detailing for a nipped-in waist and voluminous sleeves. Bergdorfgoodman.com
Our experienced team prioritizes the well-being of every family member, offering personalized care and support to help you achieve your health goals. From gentle adjustments to holistic treatments, we are dedicated to providing top-notch chiropractic care.
Additionally, our state-of-the-art Functional Neurology Center offers a comprehensive range of services tailored to support both adults and children with various conditions such as ADHD, Vertigo, POTS, Autism, Concussions/TBIs, Parkinson’s, and more.
Experience the difference in your family’s health and well-being with us at CLS.
*At CLS, chiropractic care is always free for kids 17 and under with a paying adult.
Lisa Kirsch Satawa Chief Legal Strategist
Kirsch Daskas Law Group is a full-service law firm, led by Lisa Kirsch Satawa with nearly 30 years of experience, dedicated to guiding Michigan residents through pressing legal concerns.
We understand that this may be one of the most difficult times in your life. Our experienced team specializes in defending clients in cases of sexual assault, child abuse, firearms/gun rights, school boards/ education law, and expungement.
You can trust Kirsch Daskas Law Group to provide ethical, qualified, and results-oriented representation. We are committed to being your advocates for justice and protection during these challenging times.
Drs. Chad & Chelsea Jackson and son Carson
CONSTRUCTION LOANS
• Construction-to-Permanent
• New home construction or renovation
• Borrow up to 90% of the home’s “to-be-completed” value
• Interest-only payments during the construction phase
• Single, one-time closing
Serenity Now
and storage-filled
Take a sneak peek inside this historic and functional Birmingham oasis, part of the Birmingham House Tour.
ARTICLE BY LYNNE KONSTANTIN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARTIN VECCHIO
The welcoming
ante area is where the home’s original front entrance was situated.
“The formal powder room’s walls are paneled in gorgeous walnut, with an inset mirror and metallic ceiling,” Rasschaert says. The Waterworks faucet is embellished with crystal egg handles and a hammered nickel sink adds shimmer.
“I love interiors that are fresh and full of life,” says Dayna Rasschaert, designer and owner of Dayna Flory Interiors in Bloomfield Hills. “Traditional, upbeat spaces are my specialty.”
CONTINUED >
Rasschaert has a discerning eye for seamlessly incorporating delicious colors, patterns and textures. In the case of this Birmingham home — one of six on the 35th-annual Birmingham House Tour on Sept. 12 (see “The Details”) — these details play together to create a serene and welcoming family-friendly and functional style.
A true historic home, the original Cape Cod was built in 1937, designed by noted Detroit architect Wirt C. Rowland for the son of a prominent auto-industry executive. Fast-forward to 2015: The homeowner launched a large-scale renovation, prioritizing keeping the integrity and character of the original home intact. The homeowner tapped Jeff Klatt from Krieger Klatt Architects in Royal Oak, Mike Petrucci from Petrucci Homes in Birmingham and Rasschaert to collaborate from the ground up — literally, as the renovation included
Tucked into the kitchen nook is an extra-large square concrete table, custom-made in North Carolina, surrounded by bench seating plus six additional chairs. “It can seat quite a few people while still feeling very intimate,” Rasschaert says.
underpinning the existing foundation to allow for a full-sized basement.
Although Rasschaert works often with Petrucci, she says, “This was the first time the three of us worked together — and we’ve since completed several more projects together. It was such a pleasure and privilege working with this talented team and these homeowners.”
Finding Rasschaert through word-ofmouth referral, the homeowner was quickly impressed by the designer’s process of listening first, understanding the importance of learning how the homeowner lived and what was needed from the home. “When I begin working with a client, I take a lot of time to understand their aesthetic and their lifestyle,” she says. “I like to start with design details that represent who they are, then present options that push the envelope to weave into their design.”
CONTINUED >
“The kitchen island was too long for a single slab of stone, so we created these beautiful bookend butcher blocks to add to each end,” Rasschaert says. “It made it scale perfectly in the space while also creating a unique detail.”
the master bath, extra-deep medicine-like cabinets —
Entertaining often, the homeowners wanted it to be user-friendly, comfortable and a bit luxurious for family and friends. “The design and overall palette is very sophisticated and soothing,” Rasschaert says. “At the same time, it has a charming sense of casualness that makes you feel very at home in all of the spaces.”
In
created by Petrucci Homes — flank the vanity. A custom backsplash wraps along the angles of the cabinets.
THE DETAILS
On Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024, The Community House in Birmingham will host its 35th-annual Birmingham House Tour. The fundraising event will showcase six area private homes; in addition to Dayna Rasschaert, designers and architects featured on the tour include builder Todd Emerson, founder and president of Sterling Custom Homes, designer Sissy Yellen of Sissy Yellen Living and designer Michael Coyne of Michael Coyne Design. For details and tickets (including optional lunch), visit thecommunityhouse.com
The matte-finished sculptural tub is a work of art. Cleanlined café curtains — with tailored custom-appliqued trim — create privacy while allowing natural light in.
LOCAL KURT DELFIN WORKS TO KEEP THE COMMUNITY HEALTHY, THROUGH SPORTS, COACHING — AND HEALTH-INSURANCE GUIDANCE.
A Passion For Wellness
ARTICLE BY SUSAN THWING
Kurt Delfin (right) with Tony Scigliano and Bloomfield Hills High School student Kanata Richardson, No. 1 ranked female wrestler in Michigan.
Michelle Bye and Kurt Delfin outside HealthMarkets.
Kurt Delfin
“I shop the markets for clients to determine the best place to go — right down to whether their current doctor will accept the plans they are considering.” - Kurt Delfin
Through his dual roles as a health-insurance advisor and a dedicated sports coach, Kurt Delfin has become an invaluable asset to area residents, assisting them in being both physically active and well-informed about their health-insurance options.
For more than 22 years, Delfin has helped clients navigate the complexities of health insurance. As an executive sales leader at HealthMarkets, the largest independent health-insurance agency in the U.S., Delfin’s expertise is vast and well-regarded. His office in Farmington Hills serves as a hub for those seeking clarity during the critical open enrollment periods: the Affordable Care Act (Nov. 1, 2024 - Jan. 15, 2025) and Medicare (Oct. 15, 2024 - Dec. 7, 2024).
Delfin’s approach to health insurance is highly personalized. “There are so many options available that just picking one may not be the right plan,” he says.
Delfin, who lives in West Bloomfield with his family, considers his clients’ doctors, medications and other critical factors to ensure they select the most suitable plan. This meticulous process often involves face-to-face interactions, either at his Farmington Hills office or the client’s location, providing a personalized service that sets him apart.
Delfin has a deep understanding of the insurance market. He represents top carriers, including BCBS, Priority Health, Aetna, United Healthcare, HAP, Humana and WellCare.
“I shop the markets for clients to determine the best place to go — right down to whether their current doctor will accept the plans they are considering,” Delfin says. His services are free, providing peace of mind and expert guidance without financial burden.
DEMYSTIFYING MEDICARE
Navigating Medicare can be particularly challenging, especially for those approaching age 65.
“When someone is about to turn 65, they will get a handbook called Medicare & You. People are expected to read this massive book and make a decision. And then they are stuck with that decision,” Delfin says. His Medicare 101 seminars aim to demystify Medicare, covering essential topics and ensuring attendees make informed choices without incurring penalties.
The free seminars offer a comprehensive overview of Medicare, what it covers and the necessary steps to take — plus, Delfin provides snacks. Upcoming meetings are scheduled for Sept. 24 and 25.
COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY WELLNESS
Delfin’s commitment to his community extends beyond health insurance. For more than 30 years, he has been a dedicated sports coach, currently serving as the Varsity Wrestling coach at Bloomfield Hills High School. Growing up in Sterling Heights and spending time as a professional bowler, Delfin’s passion for sports is deeply rooted. He has coached local football, basketball and other sports, emphasizing the importance of physical fitness, teamwork and personal growth.
His dual role as a coach and insurance advisor allows him to promote a holistic approach to health and wellness. Whether on the field or in his office, Delfin is dedicated to improving the lives of those in his community.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
• Open Enrollment: the Affordable Care Act (Nov. 1, 2024 - Jan. 15, 2025) and Medicare (Oct. 15, 2024 - Dec. 7, 2024).
• Kurt Delfin’s Medicare 101 Seminars: Sept. 24 and 25. To register, contact Michelle Bye (586-703-8173), or visit healthmarkets.com/ local-health-insurance-agent/kurtdelfin
Art THE OF COLLECTING
“Beneath the Wings of Fire” by Allan Chow
ARTICLE BY MEGAN HOBAN
We are constantly being enticed to buy. Whether it’s a stunning piece of jewelry, concert tickets to see a favorite band or that pair of shoes that’s calling our name. We buy what we love — and art should be no different.
Portrait by Julia Kimova
If you are new to acquiring original art, it can be daunting, but it shouldn’t be. It is a special purchase that forces you to dig deep and discover a bit more about yourself. As an art consultant, I often see people shying away from buying original art because of the commitment. It’s a big decision after all, and how do you really know when it’s the “perfect” piece? Since art is subjective, part of the process is learning
A work by Noah Desmond
what style of art is the best fit for you. Is it colorful and energetic abstracts, or soothing landscapes that catch your eye? Maybe you are drawn to local photography, or figurative works or even a mix of styles. There is no wrong answer. The best way to find out your “art personality” is to visit your local galleries (check out New York Paris Gallery in Birmingham, Danielle Peleg Art Gallery in Keego Harbor or Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center in Birmingham). Make it a tradition to visit galleries while traveling or buy a piece of art as a gift on special occasions. In the gallery setting, you can explore various art styles, media and learn more about the talented artists who create those works.
With the purchase of original art comes other considerations. Often, we have clients who need direction figuring out what size of art they need and its placement in the design of their space. If you find a piece of art you love, you will always find a spot for it — many
galleries offer in-home art consultation services to see the piece in your setting. Great custom framing is key and well-designed framing is the jewelry to a great piece of art. Quality archival framing protects your art from UV rays that can damage a piece over time. Original art should last generations.
I’m often asked, should I buy art for investment? There is a place for investment art, but I don’t believe in buying art with the pretense that it will go up in value. There is no guarantee it will and to me, good investment art brings different riches to your life. Art that brings you joy, adds personality to your space, and makes your home original is an investment in you. The best art investment should be the feeling you experience gazing into an oil painting that perfectly captures a warm sunset over the prairie, or the texture created by a palette knife on the abstract that seems to pop off the canvas. That is what makes investing in original art priceless.
“Endless Possibilities” by Scott Bean
YOUR DRINK DRESS UP
THESE BEAUTIFUL BEVERAGES ARE SURE TO TURN HEADS
BLUE MARTINI WITH FLORAL ICE CUBES
BOLD COLORS Fresh florals. An eye-catching shimmer. The perfect embellishment. We’re talking cocktails, not the catwalk. But like fashion, the art of mixology is full of ways to push the limits with creative twists on classic recipes, and unique adornments guaranteed to turn heads. There’s no reason your personal style can’t extend to the drink in your hand, and this botanical beverage is bound to taste as delicious as it looks.
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 ounces Absolut Citron
• 1/2 ounce Blue Curaçao
• 1/2 ounce lemonade
• 1 ounce Sprite
• Edible flowers such as rose, lavender, hibiscus and nasturtiums
DIRECTIONS:
Pour Sprite into ice cube trays and add edible flower combinations. Let freeze overnight.
Combine Absolut Citron, Blue Curaçao, lemonade and ice cubes in martini shaker. Shake and strain into a martini glass.
Allow ice cubes to melt, gradually filling the glass with Sprite and garnishing the drink with beautiful botanicals.
ARTICLE BY CATE MARIAN
FIG + THYME
SPARKLING LEMONADE
INGREDIENTS: DIRECTIONS:
• thyme simple syrup
+ 1/2 cup sugar
+ 1/2 cup water
+ 1 bunch thyme
• 2 fresh figs
• 3/4 ounce lemon juice
• 3/4 ounce thyme syrup
• 3/4 ounce Sprite
In a small saucepan, simmer sugar, water and thyme leaves over low heat for 5 minutes or until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and let the thyme infuse into the syrup for at least 10 minutes.
For the cocktail, muddle figs and lemon juice in the bottom of a glass. Add ice, 3/4 of the thyme syrup and Sprite. Stir and garnish with fig and a sprig of thyme.
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 1/2 ounces premium vodka
• 1 ounce lemon juice
• 2 ounces purple shimmery liqueur
• Blackberry vodka
• Moscato wine
• Luster petal dust
• Sugar syrup (optional)
DIRECTIONS:
Combine blackberry vodka, moscato wine and pinch of luster petal dust to make purple shimmery liqueur. Adjust proportions depending on flavor preferences. Add sugar syrup to make it sweeter if desired.
Pour vodka, shimmery liqueur and lemon juice into a cocktail shaker. Shake well and pour into glass over ice.
PURPLE KISS
erfect foundation needs.
Whether you’re looking for a construction mortgage or a vacant lot loan, you can count on us for competitive products and trusted support. Choose from fixed or adjustable rate options. Plus, get financing that includes your construction and permanent loans all in
Financing for renovations or expansion projects
Interest only payments during the construction of your home
Construction periods up to 24 months
Pictured left-to-right: Jason Geisz, Beth Silver, Adam Biswanger, Sue Minster, Bob Alati, Robyn Crewdson, and Angela Dennis [not pictured]
