Naples Illustrated February 2024

FINS IN THE FATHOMS

A LOCAL COUPLE TREK THE GLOBE TO DOCUMENT AND PROTECT SHARKS

TELL ME A STORY

A CURIOUS, CREATIVE NEAPOLITAN SEEKS SOLUTIONS EFFECTING CHANGE

BLOSSOMING OUT

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PALM BEACH ILLUSTRATED

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FASHION COMES INTO FULL BLOOM WITH FLORALINSPIRED LOOKS

12/26/23 4:45 PM

W E S T PA L M

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NAPLES

JUPITER

F O RT M Y E RS

PA L M B E AC H

W E L L I N G TO N

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Presenting Provident Jewelry’s

EXQUISITE COLLECTION P R O V I D E N TJ E W E L R Y. C O M

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351 NEAP OL I TAN W AY | $ 1 5,995,000

VENETIA N BA Y PA SS MO OR IN G S

PA RK SH O RE PAR K SH ORE BEA CH

345 3 CR A Y T O N R D | $ 7 , 500 , 000

605 P ARK V I EW L N | $ 6,295,000

M O O RINGS PORT ROY AL

LE P AR C P H 5 0 2 | $ 1 3 , 500 , 000

320 SP RI NGL I NE DR | $1 0,950,000 950 ADMI R AL T Y PAR AD E | $ 2 4,9 5 0,0 0 0

A S P E N • T H E H A M P T O N S • PA L M S P R I N G S • M A L I B U • M A N H AT TA N • B E V E R LY H I L L S • L A G U N A B E A C H • A N D M O R E

800 HARBOUR DRIVE, NAPLES, FLORIDA 34103 (239) 261-3939 © 2022 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. ALL MATERIAL PRESENTED HEREIN IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY. WHILE, THIS INFORMATION IS BELIEVED TO BE CORRECT, IT IS REPRESENTED SUBJECT TO ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGES OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL PROPERTY INFORMATION, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO SQUARE FOOTAGE, ROOM COUNT, NUMBER OF BEDROOMS AND THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IN PROPERTY LISTINGS SHOULD BE VERIFIED BY YOUR OWN ATTORNEY, ARCHITECT OR ZONING EXPERT. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY.

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BREATHTAKING GULF VIEWS 2231 FO RRE ST LANE | AQU ALAN E SH ORES $14 ,5 0 0 ,0 0 0

*FURNITURE POSSIBLY

MICHAEL G. LAWLER PA

HARBOUR POINT BUSINESS CENTER 239.261.3939 | 800 HARBOUR DR | NAPLES, FL 34103

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Every Great Design

BEGINS WITH AN EVEN BETTER STORY - YOURS

Discover how our acclaimed design team creates bespoke luxury interior design solutions driven by chapters of your life that inspire you.

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DW

To schedule a complimentary Design Profile email connect@dwest.com or call 239.514.1234 445 Fifth Avenue South, Naples, FL 34102

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Discover Naples’ Most

Legendary Success Story...

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And Make it Your Own W hen tranquil Gulf of Mexico beaches, sparkling ocean-view pools, elegant dining, world-class Spa treatments, curated amenities and the thoughtful service of The Ritz-Carlton are all right outside your door, life goes from comfortable to simply incomparable.

Claim your piece of the legend today and call or visit the Sales Gallery.

THE RITZ-CARLTON RESIDENCES, NAPLES ARE NOT OWNED, SOLD OR DEVELOPED BY THE RITZ-CARLTON HOTEL COMPANY, L.L.C. OR ITS AFFILIATES (“THE RITZ-CARLTON”). STOCK RESIDENCES, USES THE RITZ-CARLTON MARKS UNDER A LICENSE FROM THE RITZ-CARLTON, WHICH HAS NOT CONFIRMED THE ACCURACY OF ANY OF THE STATEMENTS OR REPRESENTATIONS MADE HEREIN. ORAL REPRESENTATION CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING THE REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS REFERENCE SHOULD BE MADE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY THE DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. ALL RENDERINGS AND PLANS ARE PROPOSED CONCEPTS SHOWN ONLY FOR MARKETING PURPOSES AND ARE

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B P D A

E N N E

Sales Gallery 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road Suite 106 Naples, Florida 34109 Phone 239-249-6260 Currently under construction Pricing from $4 million RCRNaples.com BASED ON THE DEVELOPER’S CURRENT PRELIMINARY DEVELOPMENT PLAN. DEVELOPER RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY, REVISE OR WITHDRAW THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT PLAN IN DEVELOPER’S SOLE DISCRETION WITHOUT NOTICE. NOTHING HEREIN OR ANY OTHER COMMUNICATION SHALL BE DEEMED TO OBLIGATE THE DEVELOPER, OR ANY AFFILIATE OF DEVELOPER, TO CONSTRUCT THE PROJECT OR OFFER ANY OF THE PROJECT FOR SALE, AND NOTHING HEREIN SHALL BE DEEMED A GUARANTY OF ANY KIND. THIS IS NOT AN OFFER TO SALE OR SOLICITATIONS OF OFFERS TO BUY.

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READY TO LIVE YOUR DREAM LIFESTYLE?

Look No Further

BROKERAGE | RENTALS | RELOCATION | NEW DEVELOPMENT MORTGAGE | TITLE | INSURANCE | FINE ART CONSIGNMENT

PremierSIR.com | 239.261.6161 Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

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1388 Great Egret Trail, Naples, FL $10,995,000.

Exclusively offered by Premier Sotheby’s International Realty.

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Women are

SAVVY INVESTORS At Moran Wealth Management® we understand that women often have a different approach to investing than men. These factors play a large role in the decisions that define a portfolio.

That’s why our comprehensive advice and guidance is built on trust and active listening. Contact us today and discover what extraordinary, attentive service can mean for your financial future.

Please call 239.920.4440 or send a request through our website MoranWM.com to schedule your private consultation.

5801 Pelican Bay Boulevard • Suite 110 • Naples, Fl 34108

RESPONSIBLE FOR OVER 4 BILLION DOLLARS

IN CLIENT ASSETS AS OF 9/30/2023

Moran Wealth Management®, LLC is a registered investment adviser. For additional information about Moran Wealth Management®, LLC, including its services and fees, request the firm’s disclosure brochure using the contact information above or visit adviserinfo.sec.gov. Visit https://moranwm.com/disclosures/ to access the complete list of methodologies and disclosures for the referenced financial accolades.

Moran Wealth Management® is a separate entity and not affiliated with any other entity or practice that uses the same name.

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LC, Visit .

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1447 GA LLEON DRIV E PORT ROYAL | $14,900,000

1250 WAGGLE WAY ESTATES AT BAY COLONY GOLF CLUB $10,950,000 | Golf Membership Available

230 CHAMPNEY BAY COURT PORT ROYAL AREA | $8,750,000

25 2ND AV ENUE SOUTH OLDE NAPLES $18,900,000

A Tradition of Excellence $225M

$385M

$ 4.3B+

IN SALES THUS FAR IN 2023

CURRENT VALUE OF EXCLUSIVE PORTFOLIO

IN LIFETIME LUXURY TRANSACTIONS

(INCLUDES MLS AND NON-MLS SALES)

(PRIVATE PLACEMENTS NOT INCLUDED)

DISCOVER THE PINNACLE IN NAPLES LUXURY REAL ESTATE, ONLY AT BILL EARLS.COM

239.777.6622 Bill@BillEarls.com 239.571.8247 Larry@LarryLappin.com

5

#

SMALL TEAM

IN FLORIDA

2021

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#

SMALL TEAM

IN THE U.S.

2021

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4550 GOR DON DR I V E PORT ROYAL | $63,000,000 340 PIR ATES BIGHT PARK SHOR E | $5,995,000

81 SE AGATE DR I V E PH20 SEASONS AT NA PLES CAY | $32,500,000

680 8TH AV ENUE SOUTH OLDE NAPLES | $5,995,000

1400 GULF SHOR E BLV D. N. #211 CHARLESTON SQUA R E – COQUINA SANDS | $3,250,000

960 17TH AVENUE SOUTH AQUALANE SHOR ES | $29,500,000 3787 FORT CHARLES DRIVE PORT ROYAL | $23,500,000

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3200 GOR DON DR IV E PORT ROYA L A R EA | $16,000,000

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WATER+ WONDER The shore less traveled

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Estero Bay are not owned, sold or developed by The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. or its affiliates (“The Ritz-Carlton”). LB Estero Bay Investments, LLC uses The Ritz-Carlton marks under a license from The Ritz-Carlton, which has not confirmed the accuracy of any of the statements or representations made herein.

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tero s or

NOW UNDER CONSTRUCTION

Introducing a new kind of away. Just north of well known. Beside the protected shores of Estero Bay, Florida’s first aquatic preserve. Where life feels truer to nature. More private and peaceful. And supported by impeccable Ritz-Carlton hospitality. Nestled in the emerging coastal village of Saltleaf on Estero Bay, these refined tower residences offer a rare blend of curated living and unspoiled nature. Walk to your private lagoon for cocktails. Or the marina for a fishing excursion. To extraordinary games of golf. Or hikes through a nature preserve. But whatever the day brings, the best place to end up is your balcony, for sunset over Estero Bay. From the $3 millions. Secure your home now at the Sales Gallery.

TheResidencesEsteroBay.com | 239.788.0155 O P E N D A I LY

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5000 COCONUT ROAD

|

B O N I TA S P R I N G S , F LO R I D A 3 4 1 3 4

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NAPLES, MARCO ISL AND & FLORIDA’S GULF COAST

Unparalleled service. Unparalleled marketing.

Unparalleled results. Nothing compares.

Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission.

Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

PINE RID GE

317 West Street $9,945,000

MARCO ISL AND

80 Anchor Court $5,650,000

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MARCO ISL AND ESTATES

MARCO ISL AND MADEIR A

1598 Heights Court $9,675,000

350 Collier Boulevard #1506 $7,395,000

MARCO ISL AND ESTATES

BONITA SPRIN GS OMEGA AT BONITA BAY

1535 Caxambas Court $5,450,000

4991 Bonita Bay Boulevard #1701 $4,995,000

12/26/23 3:11 PM

MICHELLE THOMAS TE AM

239.860.7176

michelle.thomas@premiersir.com michelle.thomasteamflorida.com

01

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#1 Team in Naples

#1 Team in Marco Island

#1 Team at Premier Sotheby’s International Realty #4 Team in Florida #17 Team in the United States

MARCO ISL AND

MOORIN GS

585 Goldcoast Court $6,750,000 (Sold)

675 Anchor Rode Drive $6,500,000 (Sold)

1627 Barbados Court $5,750,000

FIDDLER’S CREEK MARSH COVE

PARK SHORE BRIT TANY

QUAIL WEST

3214 Cullowee Lane $4,950,000

4021 Gulf Shore Boulevard N #405 $4,500,000

MARCO ISL AND

4214 Cortland Way $4,489,500

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CONTENTS

FEBRUARY 2024 | NAPLESILLUSTRATED.COM FOR THE LATEST IN ALL THINGS LUXURY

FEATURES 122 FOR THE LOVE OF SHARKS A local couple dive deep into the environments of these predators, including here in Southwest Florida

By Gaylene Salomons

130 JUST CURIOUS Wonder and inquiry fuel the fire of a social-minded Neapolitan in search of global solutions

By Patricia Janeway

134 FULL BLOOM Spring forward with floral-inspired fashions that are anything but garden variety Photography by Gabor Jurina

144 GUARDIAN ANGEL A Naples resident with a compassionate spirit soars to new heights to aid women in business

130

Randy Antik founded the Imagine Solutions Conference, an event of big ideas.

22

NICK SHIRGHIO

By Gaylene Salomons

NAPLES ILLUSTRATED

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W E S T PA L M

NAPLES

JUPITER

FORT MYERS

PA L M B E AC H

WELLINGTON

P R O V I D E N TJ E W E L RY. C O M

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PERFECTION IN THE ART OF DETAIL

1601GULFSHOREBLVD.COM ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE.

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This project has been filed in the state of Florida and no other state. This is not an offer to sell or solicitation of offers to buy the condominium units in states where such offer or solicitation cannot be made. Equal Housing Opportunity. Rosewood Residences Naples is owned and being developed, offered and sold by WSR NB, LLC (“Developer”). The project is not owned, developed or sold by Rosewood Hotels and Resorts, L.L.C. or any of its affiliates (“Rosewood”). Developer uses the Rosewood marks pursuant to a license agreement with Rosewood, which may be terminated under certain conditions. Rosewood does not assume any responsibility or liability in connection with the condominium. Copyright 2023 © All Rights Reserved

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CONTENTS DEPARTMENTS 36 OUR ADVISORY BOARD 38 FROM THE EDITOR 42 FROM THE PUBLISHER 46 RSVP Soirees from the social season

INSIDER 61 SPOTLIGHT Dara Caponigro keynotes at this year’s Naples Tables

62 AROUND TOWN Notes on Veronica Beard, AC Hotel Naples, and more

68 FINDS A variety of colorful goods with Naples ties

70 WORTH IT

85

STYLE 75 THE LOOK Design and art collabs, plus Bauhaus-inspired items

78 THE EDIT What our editors will be gifting their Valentines

X

82

NICK SHIRGHIO

The 411 on diamond and gemstone valuation

ON THE COVER: PHOTOGRAPHER: EMMA CASAGRANDE COVER SUBJECT: ANDY CASAGRANDE IV

80 BIJOUX Fierce fire-breathing jewelry for the Year of the Dragon

82 BEAUTY Hero products you’ll want to buy again and again

RESIDE 85 AT HOME WITH...

The Lublins, Grey Oaks residents

88 ROOM ROUNDUP Dreamy primary bedroom suites fostering serious R & R

94 INSPIRED LIVING Interiors that ignite the senses

ASHLEY MEYER

98

26

ELEMENTS

Glass decor that’s a cut above the rest

80 100 DESIGNER DEFERENCE

Leili Fatemi injects clients’ personalities in her designs

NAPLES ILLUSTRATED

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NAPLES

5811 Pelican Bay Blvd. Suite 600 Naples, FL 34108 239.264.1000

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Your Home’s True Potential Discover the difference in exceptional flooring.

More than just a surface beneath your feet – flooring is the foundation of your home’s entire aesthetic. An investment in its beauty and longevity. Whether you’re renovating or starting fresh, our vast selection of elegant flooring options provides endless possibilities to elevate the sophistication of your home.

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Explore more exquisite flooring collections at either Naples locations.

D OW N TO W N N A P L E S

Half mile north of 5th Avenue South 670 Ninth Street North 239.220.3535

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NORTH NAPLES

2 blocks south of Wiggins Pass Road 13250 Tamiami Trail North 239.596.5959

11/22/23 7:53 AM

CONTENTS

105

COURTESY OF ROSEWOOD LE GUANAHANI ST. BARTH

180

168

JOURNEYS 105 WANDERLUST

BALANCE 171 TREATMENTS

Three properties leading a resort revolution in St. Barth

Health benefits of far-infrared saunas

110 QUICK TRIPS How to have a presidential stay in D.C.

The work-life balance, Lighthouse of Collier, and fighting fear after injuries

114 FLORIDIANA

176 TRENDING

Brickell delivers the best of big-city life

An all-hands-on-deck approach to self-care

116 HIGH ROAD

178 LIVING WITH IVEY

Maserati returns to relevance with the MC20 supercar

The benefits of eating in season

118 HIGH SEAS

Citrus is good for the mind, body, and soul

Chris-Craft’s new Catalina 28 earns our nod for best Florida boat

EAT + DRINK 157 IN SEASON

GYORGY PAPP

The Everglades Seafood Festival returns, including delectable stone crab claws

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172 WELLNESS & FITNESS

180 GOOD NATURE 182 WEALTH Riding out uncertainty in the stock market

SCENE 195 TOP BILLING Prominent painter to appear at local gallery

158 LOCAL BITES

196 CALENDAR

Advice on pairings, Bistro 821, and more

What to see and do this month

168 MINDFUL MIXOLOGIST

LAST WORD 200 REAL TALK WITH...

A raspberry-rich cocktail perfect for National Margarita Day

Fashion designer Alvin Valley

NAPLES ILLUSTRATED

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Why spend millions and incur ownership headaches when you can enjoy a fleet of the finest yachts, professionally crewed and managed?

CHARTERS

With a fleet of yachts ranging from 28' to over 130', we always have availability.

FRACTIONAL OWNERSHIP

Owning a yacht three to four times grander than you ever dreamed possible is an option and logical alternative to owning a yacht individually.

MANAGEMENT

Let a professional manage all aspects of maintenance, service and finance.

Now more than ever, explore the advantages of chartering or shared ownership of a professionally managed fleet!

YACHTING THAT MAKES SENSE

NAPLES NANTUCKET YACHT GROUP 239.331.6868 bill@nnymg.com · nnymg.com

Offices in Naples, Fort Lauderdale & Dubai (Opening 2024)

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A TASTE OF ITALY COMING TO NAPLES

Two-Hour Romantic Charters on Our Vintage Riva Fleet

131' SUNSEEKER Perseverance 4

One-Quarter Share Available at $5,000,000 Cruise Florida/the Caribbean (Winter 2024/Spring 2025)

PERFECT FOR AN AFFORDABLE DAYTIME OR SUNSET CRUISE! 28' Boston Whaler

35' Formula Bowrider

38' Cruisers Yachts GLS

44' Aquila

Charters • Fractional Ownership • Management

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BY I N V I TAT I O N

WHERE LEGACY MEETS A DV E N T U R E COLLIERRODANDGUN.COM

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First Presbyterian Church In the Heart of Naples with the Love of God: we worship, we love, we grow, we serve

Discover Your Home!

Worship with us Sundays at 10 a.m.

in person or livestream on our website, YouTube channel or Facebook page

Publisher Meegan Wyatt Editor in Chief Jane E. Enos Creative Director Olga M. Gustine Executive Editor Mary Murray Managing Editor Allison Wolfe Reckson Senior Editor Gaylene Salomons Copy Editor Kelley Marcellus Dining Editor Karen Feldman Libations Editor Jules Aron Fashion Editor Katherine Lande Automotive Editor Howard Walker Travel Editor Paul Rubio Web Editor Abigail Duffy

DESIGN Senior Art Director Ashley Meyer Art Directors Airielle Farley, Jenny Fernandez-Prieto Digital Imaging Specialist Leonor Alvarez-Maza CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sebastian Clarke, Tammy Fender, Patricia Janeway, Erika Klein, Kristen Desmond LeFevre, Ivey Leidy, Joe Pye, Liza Grant Smith, Katherine van Dell, Mary Thurman Yuhas CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Kent Anderson, Emma Casagrande, Gabor Jurina, Nick Shirghio

A Season of Music presents

Duo Beaux Arts Catherine Lan & Tao Lin pianists

Sunday, February 25 4 p.m.

SOCIAL PHOTOGRAPHERS Eileen Beam, Laurel Gail Klein, Charlie McDonald, Reagan Rule, Helen Werner ADVERTISING Account Managers Kathleen Beuttel, 239-298-7506, kbeuttel@naplesillustrated.com; Jennifer Dardano, 561-472-1905, jdardano@palmbeachmedia.com; Dina Turner, 561-472-2201, dturner@palmbeachmedia.com

National Sales Director Deidre Wade, 561-472-1902, dwade@palmbeachmedia.com Digital Account Manager Ryan Hollihan, 561-472-2208, rhollihan@palmbeachmedia.com Advertising Services Coordinator Elizabeth Hackney Marketing Manager Rebecca Desir PRODUCTION Production Director Selene M. Ceballo Production Manager Lourdes Linares Digital Pre-Press Specialists George Davis, Beatriz S. Salazar Advertising Design Coordinators Anaely J. Perez Vargas, Jeffrey Rey Production Coordinator Ileana Caban Digital Marketing Manager Tyler Sansone OPERATIONS Accounting Specialist Mary Beth Cook Accounts Receivable Specialist Ana Coronel Distribution Manager Judy Heflin Logistics Manager Omar Morales Circulation Manager Marjorie Leiva Circulation Assistants Cathy Hart, Britney Stinson Circulation Promotions Manager David Supple IT Manager Omar Greene

Group Publisher Terry Duffy Editorial Director Daphne Nikolopoulos Chief Operating Officer Todd Schmidt In Memoriam Ronald J. Woods (1935-2013) HOUR MEDIA, LLC CEO Stefan Wanczyk President John Balardo

The concert is open to all at no charge.

A free will offering will be taken.

Doors open at 3 p.m.

250 Sixth Street S Naples FL 34102 239.262.1311 fpcnaples.org 34

PUBLISHERS OF: Palm Beach Illustrated • Naples Illustrated • Palm Beach Charity Register • Naples Charity Register • Florida Design Florida Design Naples • Florida Design Miami • Florida Design Sarasota • Florida Design Sourcebook • Palm Beach Relocation Guide Southwest Florida Relocation Guide • Fifth Avenue South • Palm Beach 100 • Naples 100 • Pinnacle: Jupiter Medical Center Foundation Art & Culture: Cultural Council for Palm Beach County • Waypoints: Naples Yacht Club • Naples on the Gulf: Greater Naples Chamber Jupiter • Stuart • Aventura • Vero Beach Magazine • Community Report: Collier Community Foundation Advances: Tampa General Hospital • Naples Realtor: Naples Area Board of REALTORS

Naples Illustrated 3066 Tamiami Trail N., Suite 102, Naples, FL 34103 • 239-434-6966 • Fax: 239-435-0409 Naples Illustrated is a registered trademark of Palm Beach Media Group North, LLC Corporate Headquarters: P.O. Box 3344, Palm Beach, FL 33480 naplesillustrated.com | Subscriptions 800-308-7346

NAPLES ILLUSTRATED

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INSPIRATION STARTS HERE!

AWARD-WINNING INTERIOR DESIGN | FINE FURNISHINGS | CLIVEDANIEL.COM NAPLES, FL | 2777 TAMIAMI TRAIL N | 239.261.HOME (4663) SARASOTA, FL | 3055 FRUITVILLE COMMONS BLVD | 941.900.HOME (4663) FORT MYERS, FL | 8650 GLADIOLUS DR. | 239.944.HOME (4663) BOCA RATON, FL | 1351 NW BOCA RATON BLVD | 561.440.HOME (4663) IB26001785

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OUR ADVISORY BOARD

ASHLEY SMITH J.P. Morgan, vice president and private banker

KARL ROUWHORST

VICKI BAKER UBS Private Wealth Management, executive team assistant

CLAUDINE LEGER-WETZEL Stock Development, vice president, sales and marketing

SHAWN MCCONNELL NCH Healthcare, marketing and communications director

DONNA MCGINNIS Naples Botanical Garden, president and CEO

BRENDA MELTON Celebrity Martini Glass Auction, founder

MICHAEL WYNN Sunshine Ace Hardware, president

SHELLY STAYER CHAIRWOMAN, Naples Illustrated Advisory Board Johnsonville Foods, president/co-owner

36

AUDREY SNOW OWEN

ROLAND SCARPA

CHAD JENSEN Method & Concept, CEO/creative director

NAPLES ILLUSTRATED

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FINALLY...

THE LAST OF ITS KIND IN A FIRST-CLASS RESORT It’s been years in the making. Tower 500. Kalea Bay’s final offering.

No detail has been overlooked, nor untouched. Beginning with the desire to create vast outdoor living areas, these sophisticated residences are replete with enviable south and west views. 10-foot ceilings are now standard as are elevated selections. The last of its kind and a first in resort-style living. Only at Kalea Bay.

P r i c e s f ro m $ 3 . 5 M 13910 Old Coast Rd, Naples, FL 34110 | KaleaBay.com | 239-793-0110

Price, features and availability subject to change without prior notice.

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FROM THE EDITOR

POINTS AND PERSPECTIVES JESSI NORVELL OF MEGAN DIPIERO PHOTOGRAPHY

I’ve always been fascinated by ambiguous images—you know, the clever sketches that play off optical illusions? Is it a hare or a duck? A vase or two human profiles facing each other? What we see first depends on the way our mind chooses to translate, collate, and synthesize lines of ink and surrounding negative space. It’s a matter of interpretation—and perspective.

Though it’s not labeled on the cover, this issue’s theme is entitled “Perspectives” and offers up points of view from several interesting Neapolitans, based on their experiences and the lenses they’ve used to interpret their surroundings.

For Andy Casagrande IV, a wildlife videographer and conservationist whose work has been showcased on major media networks, this lens is quite literal. He captures and presents enthralling footage of creatures through his gaze. Though he has filmed plenty by land (including king cobras in India and lions in Tanzania), much of his work is done submerged within the Earth’s oceans studying sundry species of sharks. Just as interesting, Casagrande’s wife, Emma, a hairdresser turned underwater photographer, often accompanies him, documenting the sharks firsthand, as well as Andy at work (e.g., the photo of him on this issue’s cover). For more about Andy and Emma and their fin-loving family that roams the world’s briny waters, turn to page 122.

Another noteworthy Neapolitan with spades of perspectives to share is Randy Antik, founder of the Imagine Solutions Conference, which will take place again in Naples on March 4. While he has bountiful bright ideas to share, more than anything, what seems to distinguish Antik is his inherently inquisitive mind. And, after spending several hours with him, it’s no surprise that he has enjoyed a commendable career in business and succeeded at gathering world-renowned experts across diverse industries to present on pressing global issues at Imagine Solutions. Antik has a passion for knowing and understanding—be it people, places, things, or concepts—and his ability to communicate and forge bonds with others (within mere minutes) is admirable and rare. Read more about Antik beginning on page 130.

Also offering a unique perspective in this issue is Gerry Poirier, an accomplished businesswoman, who—after witnessing years of discrimination in the workplace—strives to advance female professionals and financial equity as the founder and CEO of AngeLink, the world’s first social crowdfunding platform powered by women. Turn to page 144 to learn more about Poirier and her efforts that champion females in business.

How we view the world usually hinges upon contexts that circumscribe us in a particular moment in time. This issue seeks to present intriguing Neapolitans whose stories impart disparate perspectives that can inform and inspire—and, perhaps concomitantly, effect a bit of change for the better.

Most cordially,

Jane E. Enos jenos@naplesillustrated.com

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©2024, Fiddler’s Creek Realty, Inc. Licensed Real Estate Broker. ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE BROKER, BUILDER OR SELLER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY FLORIDA LAW TO BE FURNISHED TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. All features, amenities, prices and availability are subject to change without notice. Ownership of property within Fiddler’s Creek does not entitle an Owner to any right, title, interest or otherwise to use all planned Club facilities, but rather an opportunity to join, subject to the payment of assessments, fees and applicable regulations. All club facilities as presently proposed are not constructed nor will all proposed facilities be located within the property encompassed in the Fiddler’s Creek PUD. Development and construction of these facilities is contingent upon receipt of all applicable governmental permits and approvals.

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isn’t fun the best thing to have?

It’s how we roll — which is to say on the courts, at the beach, out on the water, and wherever we’re sharing a bite. Fiddler’s Creek is everything you want, everywhere you want to be, including at home in luxurious, fabulously appointed residences set in a lavish, picture-postcard landscape.

IONS, Creek ed are ovals.

M O D E L H O M E & A M E N I T Y T O U R S D A I LY N E W S I N G L E - F A M I LY H O M E S F R O M $ 3 M | N E W C O A C H H O M E S F R O M $ 2 M 239.732.9300 | FIDDLERSCREEK .COM

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

A MONTH FOR MEMORIES JESSI NORVELL OF MEGAN DIPIERO PHOTOGRAPHY

The month of February holds a special place in my heart. Not only will I be celebrating a milestone birthday, but 20 years ago, I also became engaged in February. Additionally, I found out I was having my first child 17 years ago in February.

Every year, when I was growing up, my godfather would send me an airline ticket for my birthday—always over the long President’s Day weekend—to visit him in Florida. We would spend a bit of time in Orlando and then drive south to Naples to visit my aunt, who lived here for many years.

Little did I know, decades later, I would be residing here, calling myself a Neapolitan. Growing up in New England, February was the month that we enjoyed fun snow days and a school vacation in between. These days coupled together always made this cold and blustery time tolerable and seemingly quick to pass by.

Living in paradise, we certainly do not have to worry about snow days; instead, we get to relish the thriving tourism and activity that our “season” brings to us in Southwest Florida. It’s an exciting time. There is always a wonderful charitable event to attend, a new business opening to support, and inevitably, the question: will I get a parking spot when I get there? Regardless of parking luck, season certainly is upon us, and I love to see all the retail shops and restaurants thriving during this time.

Every issue of Naples Illustrated presents a theme; this edition’s is entitled “Perspectives.” Our editorial team has focused on local Neapolitans with wide-ranging passions and vantage points. From a Naples resident who makes a career through the videography of sharks in the deep waters of the world to a longtime Neapolitan who has organized a prominent science-based conference to a woman who has founded a crowdfunding platform aimed at empowering females, this issue has much to offer. Along with this, expect to find plenty of luxury lifestyle content, too, including clothing, jewels, and accessories to sport at your next philanthropic soiree.

As always, I send enormous thanks to the wonderful readers of Naples Illustrated and our longtime supporters and advertisers. We look forward to a fabulous February ahead here in Naples!

Meegan Wyatt mwyatt@naplesillustrated.com

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12/27/23 4:43 PM

DAVID WEBB TRUNK SHOW FEB 19-20

N A P L E S | PA L M B E A C H THIRD STREET SOUTH, NAPLES | 239.263.4333 THE RITZ-CARLTON, NAPLES | 239.598.3300 APPOINTMENTS RSVP@MARISSACOLLECTIONS.COM | FOLLOW @SHOPMARISSACOLLECTIONS | SHOP 24/7 MARISSACOLLECTIONS.COM

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12/26/23 11:54 AM

The Art of Living Vibrantly

Introducing one of the last lakefront settings in Naples.

Set on 780 magnificent acres in a prime South Naples location, Caymas by Stock Development offers 457 luxury single-family residences. The lifestyle amenities will enrich the residential experience, with a spectacular clubhouse featuring 30,000 square feet of luxurious space, including indoor and outdoor dining, movie theater, golf simulator, an amazing pool complex, tennis and pickleball, dog park, kayak launch, and much more… all in a sensational waterfront setting.

Residences by Stock Luxury Homes and Pulte Homes.

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Sales Office Now Open 9385 Caymas Terrace, Naples, FL 34113 | 239.249.6265

caymasnaples.com Residences from $1 million

ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING THE REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS REFERENCE SHOULD BE MADE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. ALL RENDERINGS AND PLANS ARE PROPOSED CONCEPTS SHOWN ONLY FOR MARKETING PURPOSES AND ARE BASED ON THE DEVELOPER’S CURRENT PRELIMINARY DEVELOPMENT PLAN. DEVELOPER RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY, REVISE OR WITHDRAW THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT PLAN IN DEVELOPER’S SOLE DISCRETION WITHOUT NOTICE. NOTHING HEREIN OR IN ANY OTHER COMMUNICATION SHALL BE DEEMED TO OBLIGATE THE DEVELOPER, OR ANY AFFILIATE OF DEVELOPER, TO CONSTRUCT THE PROJECT OR OFFER ANY OF THE PROJECT FOR SALE, AND NOTHING HEREIN SHALL BE DEEMED A GUARANTY OF ANY KIND. THIS IS NOT AN OFFER TO SALE OR SOLICITATION OF OFFERS TO BUY.

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RSVP

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HONORING PHILANTHROPY AND PHILANTHROPISTS

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WHO: Collier Community Foundation WHAT: Luncheon WHERE: Grey Oaks Country Club, Naples DETAILS: The Trustees Emeriti of the Collier Community Foundation presented awards to individuals, nonprofits, and organizations.

MEDIA SPONSOR: Naples Illustrated

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1. Jaclynn Faffer, Jay and Patty Baker, Diann and Vincent Keyes

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2. Gail Smith, Myra Friedman, Miriam Ross 3. Donna McGinnis, Rhea Merrill, Eileen ConnollyKeesler 4. Tom McCann, Anne Fleming 5. Ana Mirkovic, Leslie Haley 6. Kathy Beuttel, Cindi Withorn 7. Rebecca Maddox, Richard LeBer 8. Sherry Pino, Brian Bremer, Phyllis Barolsky

CHARLIE MCDONALD PHOTOGRAPHY

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12/29/23 11:01 AM

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ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

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WHO: Naples Aesthetic Institute WHAT: Five-year anniversary party WHERE: Naples Aesthetic Institute DETAILS: The female-owned and -operated plastic surgery practice and medical spa, founded by Dr. Kiran Gill, marked its five-year anniversary with a move to a new 10,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility.

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1. Laura Chang Kit, Norman Gentry, Bill Gaston, Kiran Gill 2. Vesna Melancon, Christine Allen, Kimberly O’Neil, Tyfani Oliver, Andrea Umanzor, Kennedi Taylor, Renata Almeida; Deilys Metzger (front right) 3. Dani Taverna, Claudia Dal Lago, Christy Pagoni 4. Sajan Rao, Kiran Gill, Shona Velamakanni 5. Patrick and Victoria Kerrigan, Alyssa and Curtis Hussey 6. John Gerneth, David Corban, Christian Alonso

REAGAN RULE

7. Kelly and Steven Fontana 8.

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Barbara Hurtagh, Nadia Kazim, Jennifer Salm, Leela Lavasani, Laura Chang Kit 9. Vicki Hemmett, Catie Hawryluk

NAPLES ILLUSTRATED

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12/29/23 11:01 AM

W I T H

B R I L L I A N C E

CRAFTED

Elevate your custom homebuilding journey with the award-winning expertise of Stock Custom Homes.

Trust in our renowned craftsmanship to curate a residence that embodies your refined way of life.

Build your dream home on your cherished homesite, or explore our select collection of exquisite custom

NAPLES | ESTERO | SARASOTA HOBE SOUND | WELLINGTON | PALM BEACH

239.249.6400 | StockCustomHomes.com

homes currently being meticulously crafted across Southwest Florida.

BROKER PARTICIPATION WELCOMED. ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING THE REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS REFERENCE SHOULD BE MADE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. NOT AN OFFERING WHERE PROHIBITED BY STATE LAW. PRICES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

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UNCORKED WHO: Youth Haven WHAT: Eighth annual wine pairing event WHERE: The Club at Mediterra, Naples DETAILS: Charlie Miller and Jacqui Resop hosted an evening of live music, food, and drink, as well as a silent auction, raising $90,000 for Youth Haven.

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1. Katrina Falcon, Melissa Clark, Jacqui Resop, Charlie Miller, Allison Murrell, Taylor Trombino 2. Claire Hila, Allison

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Purcell, Jerry Galeana 3. Tade Bua Bell,

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Linda Goldfield 4. Ashley Silvers Olson and Elijah Olson 5. Ruth Stoots, Jessica Zazo 6. Diana Abbasy, Donna Issenmann, Linda Davis, Kelly Kmietek, Linda Sims

HELEN WERNER PHOTOGRAPHY

7. Cynthia and Greg Lammert 8. Dave

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Citron, Alexandra Katherman 9. Susan Isaacs

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12/29/23 11:01 AM

Full-Service Interior Design Fine Furnishings Space Planning Interior Architectural Detailing 3D Rendering Project Management

www.reneegaddis.com 239.431.8352 15940 Old 41 N., Suite 530 • Naples, FL 34110

See more work #reneegaddisinteriors

FL LICENSE IB26001518

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THE POWER OF WORK

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WHO: DisruptHR Naples WHAT: Workshop and networking session WHERE: Hilton Naples Hotel DETAILS: Guests gathered to mingle, eat, drink, and hear dynamic speakers enlighten and empower about the future of work.

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1. Christin Collins, Jessi Norvell 2.

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Amy Turner, Joaquin Hernandez 3. Tara Allison, Tom Kluttz, Chad Kappes 4. Brian Cooper, Michelle Tabi, Mercedes Mikalaitis 5. Sue Huff, Keith Daubmann 6. Jacob and Melissa Anderson 7. Joe Nugent, Melissa Severance 8. Annie Meehan 9. Denise Serdahl, Kathy George 10. Nick Gerber, Rachael Perillo

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HELEN WERNER PHOTOGRAPHY

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12/29/23 11:01 AM

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PURPOSEFUL SHOPPING WHO: Naples Woman’s Club WHAT: Seventh Annual Artisan Marketplace WHERE: Naples Woman’s Club DETAILS: Talented artists offered their creations for sale, including pottery, paintings, textiles, jewelry, clothing, and accessories; proceeds from the sales benefited the Naples Woman’s Club Arts Scholarship Fund.

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8 1. Cindy Meyers, Suzanne King, Valerie White 2. Carolyn Delaney, Stacy Vermylen, Brenda Lowery 3. Anthony and LeTricia Zoheib 4. Taryn Cafiero, Julie Stuckman 5.

Betsy Hernandez, Jennifer

LAUREL GAIL KLEIN AND EILEEN BEAM

McManus, Sofia Guzman,

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Karol Sepulveda (back row); Leyssa Audige, Halle Sims, Lily McManus (front row) 6. Laura Chelini, Maria Mendius, Betsy Pesek 7. Myra Jaimes, Ernande Fabius, Nadiouska Vilcin, Chrisdarline Adolphe 8. Rod and Lisa Bayard

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12/29/23 11:01 AM

NEW CONSTRUCTION

LAKE PARK 1064 13TH ST N | $2.95M

OLDE NAPLES 1140 8TH ST S | $6.975M

GREY OAKS 2650 L’ERMITAGE LN | $3.395M

PORT ROYAL 2490 TREASURE LN | $16.25M

ROBYN PFISTER GRIFFIN & ROBERT FORBIS GRIFFINFORBIS.COM 792 BROAD AVENUE SOUTH, NAPLES, FL 34102

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239.777.7866 12/28/23 1:05 PM

CLASSIC IS ALWAYS IN VOGUE. ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS MAKE REFERENCE TO THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN AND TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. COMMUNITY FEATURES, AMENITIES AND PRICING APPROXIMATE AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

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WALK, DON’T RUN. EVERYWHERE. Whatever, whenever, it’s around the corner, down a cobbled, palm-lined lane, or simply, downstairs. Infinity at The Colony is a collection of spacious residences and all the amenities you crave, curated in a style that celebrates a classic coastal lifestyle. If you must venture out, we know it will be… in style.

NOW UNDER CONSTRUCTION Five Inspiring Condominium Floor Plans 3,000 to 4,000 SF • From the Mid $2Ms Sales Gallery: 4861 Coconut Road, Bonita Springs, FL 239-362-9950 | InfinityColony.com

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The Matina Group 8 in 10 women will end up solely responsible for their finances.

Financial knowledge is power.

Our team has the experience to advise and guide you to feel empowered to make sound financial decisions.

No matter what comes your way, we imagine solutions to turn your possibilities into a plan-for you and your family for generations to come.

“The Matina Group is a boutique private wealth management team comprised of accomplished professionals, created in the likeness of the multi-generational clients we advise. Thoughtful advice, customized solutions and a world-class client experience are the foundation of everything we do.”

– Joseph Matina Areas of focus – Financial planning strategies – Investment management – Trust and estate planning strategies – Multigenerational families – Business transition – Women and wealth

The Matina Group Joseph Matina Managing Director–Wealth Management joseph.matina@ubs.com Amy West, CTFA Senior Vice President–Wealth Management a.west@ubs.com UBS Financial Services Inc. Private Wealth Management 801 Laurel Oak Drive, Suite 500 Naples, FL 34108 877-452-4344 toll free 239-249-5011

Learn more at advisors.ubs.com/matinagroup

* Source: for 8 in 10 quote is UBS Own your worth: Women wealth and the path to financial freedom. 2020.

For designation disclosures, visit ubs.com/us/en/designation-disclosures. As a firm providing wealth management services to clients, UBS Financial Services Inc. offers investment advisory services in its capacity as an SEC-registered investment adviser and brokerage services in its capacity as an SEC-registered broker-dealer. Investment advisory services and brokerage services are separate and distinct, differ in material ways and are governed by different laws and separate arrangements. It is important that you understand the ways in which we conduct business, and that you carefully read the agreements and disclosures that we provide to you about the products or services we offer. For more information, please review the client relationship summary provided at ubs.com/relationshipsummary, or ask your UBS Financial Advisor for a copy.

In providing financial planning services, we may act as a broker-dealer or investment adviser, depending on whether we charge a fee for the service. The nature and scope of the services are detailed in the documents and reports provided to clients as part of the service. Financial planning does not alter or modify in any way a client’s existing account(s) or the terms and conditions of any account agreements they may have with UBS. Neither UBS Financial Services Inc. nor its employees (including its Financial Advisors) provide tax or legal advice. You should consult with your legal counsel and/or your accountant or tax professional regarding the legal or tax implications of a particular suggestion, strategy or investment, including any estate planning strategies, before you invest or implement. Trust services are provided by UBS Trust Company, N.A. or another licensed trust company. UBS Trust Company, N.A. is an affiliate of UBS Financial Services Inc. and a subsidiary of UBS AG. Trust investments are not deposits or other obligations of, or guaranteed by, UBS Trust Company, N.A. or UBS Group AG or any of their affiliates. Trust investments involve investment risks, including possible loss of the principal. © UBS 2023. The key symbol and UBS are among the registered and unregistered trademarks of UBS. Private Wealth Management is a division within UBS Financial Services Inc. UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS AG. Member FINRA. Member SIPC. UBS Financial Advisors are Registered Representatives of UBS Financial Services Inc. CJ-UBS-798528454 IS2303553 Exp.: 06/30/2024

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EXPANDED TO NAPLES, INVESTED IN FLORIDA Serving as Florida’s law firm for business means ensuring we can partner with clients and help companies build value in every major market across the state.

Our recent merger with established attorneys in southwest Florida gives us a Naples presence and expands the Gunster footprint to 13 offices.

As we near our centennial year, no firm is better positioned to serve the legal needs of our sophisticated clients.

The diversified capabilities of our more than 290 attorneys span 30 practice areas, including real estate, private wealth services, construction and tax as well as corporate and commercial litigation.

Our best-in-class Naples attorneys are longtime leaders in our community, its legal circles and philanthropic organizations.

We continue to lead Florida forward in every corner of our remarkable state, from Naples to the Panhandle to Miami.

Gunster. Statewide and state wise.

Gunster.com | 800.749.1980

R YA N B E A D L E • M A R C I E C H A R L E S • J E F F R E Y F R I D K I N • A L E X A N D R A G A B E L • R I C H A R D G R A N T C H E R Y L H A S T I N G S • H U G H H AY E S • T R AV I S H AY E S • W I L L I A M P E A R S O N • C O N N O R S T O N E M I C H A E L T R A F I C A N T E • C H A R L E S W H I T T I N GTO N • K E I T H W I C K E N D E N • C H R I ST I N A WO O DS

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JINX MCDONALD

I N T E R I O R

D E S I G N S ,

239.598.4800 | www.jinxmcdonald.com |

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INSIDER

COURTESY OF DARA CAPONIGRO

THE INSIDE TRACK TO NEAPOLITAN LIVING

SPOTLIGHT

LIVE, GIVE, AND CELEBRATE! The League Club’s annual Naples Tables extravaganza takes place February 28-29 at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón. Titled “Live, Give, Celebrate,” this year’s event will showcase spectacular tablescapes designed

by interior designers and other creative individuals and businesses. Funds raised through organized events such as this have enabled The League Club, a nonprofit organization, to bestow more than $6.63 million in grants— supporting the environment, education, children, and families in the local community since its inception in 1986.

This year’s guest speaker is Dara Caponigro, chief creative officer and creative director for

the 134-year-old F. Schumacher & Co. In her role with Schumacher, Caponigro directs and oversees product development, digital and print marketing, public relations and events, licensing, finished goods, and visual merchandising. She also serves as editor in chief of Frederic, the company’s glossy design publication.

Turn the page for a brief Q&A with Caponigro that includes details about her upcoming visit to Naples. (leagueclub.org) –Gaylene Salomons

NAPLESILLUSTRATED.COM | FEBRUARY 2024

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COURTESY OF DARA CAPONIGRO

INSIDER

LIVE, GIVE, AND CELEBRATE! (CONTINUED) NI: Prior to joining Schumacher, you held many noteworthy positions as a magazine editor, specializing in interior design and architecture. You are also an author of three—soon to be four—design books. You went from author to creative director. Do you consider yourself a writer? A designer? Both?

Caponigro: I don’t consider myself a writer, though I’ve certainly learned to write, or a designer, although I’ve done it at different times of my life. My mom is a designer, so I was exposed to the world of decoration at an early age. I graduated from Barnard College with a bachelor’s in English literature and a minor in biology and art history. I was always torn about what to do as a career. I’ve worked at the Bronx Zoo and the CooperHewitt museum. I then interviewed for a job as an assistant to the decorating editors at House Beautiful and got it. One magazine 62

led to another. I was a sponge and learned everything. Being an editor is about having a creative vision and seeing it to fruition. It’s about being tapped into the zeitgeist and predicting what’s coming next.

Where do you get your creativity?

My creativity is a mystery to me. I suppose I’m predisposed to being creative, but I’m also very open and attuned to the world around me. I’m most creative when I’m not trying too hard, and I just let things flow. I am also very curious. I love seeing new things and learning. I am happiest when I am accomplishing things and moving forward. I always have my eye on what’s next, helping make me a good creative director and editor.

What attracted you to speaking at this year’s Naples Tables event?

I’ve heard amazing things about Naples Tables and the nonprofit work of The League Club and was honored to be asked. What an esteemed roster of former participants. I couldn’t be in better company. Although, I must admit I’m a bit intimidated.

What will you be sharing?

One of the things I’ve loved about my career is reporting on how different people express themselves. My presentation will focus on a broad range of styles and ideas, with the hope that there will be something interesting for everyone attending to take away. –G.S.

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Why not

NAPLES? SPECIALIZING IN NAPLES LUXURY HOMES

LORI FOWLER, Realtor® 239.877.3800 Lori@LoriFowlerNaplesLuxury.com LORIFOWLERNAPLESLUXURY.COM

“Are you looking for a real estate experience curated to your individual needs by a professional with a track record of success and satisfied customers?”

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550 FIFTH AVENUE SOUTH NAPLES, FLORIDA 34102 239.877.3800 ®

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INSIDER RETAIL

COURTESY OF H

bors we serve can’t get to us,” Haniff says. “With this mobile grocery store, we will be able to get to our neighbors.” (harrychapinfoodbank.org) —G.S.

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The mobile grocery experience will provide those battling food insecurity with the opportunity to select fresh produce, canned and dry goods, frozen meats, bread, and grains. The initiative includes donated items, farmers market–style goods, and education, empowering communities with healthy choices. A generous grant from the Publix Charities Foundation in 2021 helped make the program a reality.

The food bank currently serves more than a quarter of a million people every month. Stuart Haniff, chief development officer at Harry Chapin Food Bank, believes the mobile experience will revolutionize the fight against hunger.

“We have hundreds of programs we run internally, but none of those do any good if the neigh-

AP

Harry Chapin Food Bank, the largest hunger relief organization in Southwest Florida, launched a mobile grocery market last fall. This innovative program, called Fresh Force, aims to make food more accessible in rural areas where families have transportation barriers or are not able to regularly access food through traditional grocery stores.

Co-founders and sistersin-law Veronica Swanson Beard and Veronica Miele Beard expressed their excitement over the store’s debut. Swanson Beard says she is “thrilled to open a store in Naples,” describing it as “a place I call home ... that is so dear to my family.” Miele Beard adds, “Our new store captures the spirit of the city—warm, vibrant, and inviting.”

And new this month, the brand launches its first handbag collection in keeping with the Veronica Beard aesthetic, bridging cool and classic with form and function. The spring 2024 handbag collection featuring seven silhouettes in a range of sizes, colors, and materials will be available at the Waterside Shops store. (veronicabeard.com) –G.S.

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MOBILE GROCERY EXPERIENCE

Veronica Beard, a stylish and feminine American ready-to-wear brand, opened a boutique in Waterside Shops. This is the fourth retail location in the Sunshine State for the brand. A full product offering, including such favorites as the Dickey Jacket, Scuba suiting and denim, as well as the newest assortment of outerwear, dresses, jeans, tops, skirts, footwear, and accessories, will be available.

The store, designed by the brand’s resident interior designer, Carolina de Neufville, reflects the coastal vibe of Naples. Archival Slim Aarons photography and vintage floral prints dot the walls papered in grass cloth. At the entrance, a bamboo and rattan table is nestled between a pair of custom linen-upholstered benches; inside, the space is anchored by a seating area surrounding a handwoven bamboo coffee table. A mix of vintage shell boxes, brass vases, and rattan vessels is scattered throughout the store to hold tropical greenery.

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COURTESY OF VERONICA BEARD

LOOKING GOOD AT VB

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CARING FOCUSED HIGHLY-RESPONSIVE

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Over 30 years of experience and insight helping professionals, business owners and families. Backed by a world class platform of Morgan Stanley product solutions and specialists.

“My goal isyoutor exexcpeeecdtations.”

HUGH FISHER

Senior Vice President / Financial Advisor CEPA

MORGAN STANLEY

(239) 598-7675

HUGH.FISHER@MORGANSTANLEY.COM 8898 PELICAN BAY BLVD., STE 300 | NAPLES, FL 34108

Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC 6162894 12/23

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INSIDER

COURTESY OF AC HOTELS

Sense of PLACE X

being of young learners not only enhances their academic performance but also equips them with valuable skills to navigate their emotions and develop positive relationships.” She especially is grateful to the Collier Community Foundation for their support in creating a world free of hate, violence, bullying, and division. (charityforchange.org) –G.S.

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Founded in 2008, Charity for Change is an organization that teaches children to care about each other and the world around them, instilling empathy and a giving spirit to elementary school-age children in afterschool and summer school programs. More than 120,000 students have been helped by this program in Collier County.

Last fall, Charity for Change received $32,500 in grants from the Collier Community Foundation, a tax-exempt, public charitable organization established in 1985 to increase local private philanthropy. The grant will specifically support the production of 20 new GiverTV videos, an interactive component of the Charity for Change curriculum. The videos will help students practice nine character traits: citizenship, perseverance, kindness, self-control, tolerance, responsibility, integrity, cooperation, and respect.

Founder and CEO of Charity for Change Karen Conley shares that “studies consistently demonstrate that nurturing the emotional well-

CH A

Planting Seeds of KINDNESS

of Naples Square, a mixed-use development that includes nearly 300 luxury condominium units, multiple restaurants, and the forthcoming Gulfshore Playhouse—a 350-seat performing arts complex.

General Manager Jacob Kucinski, who previously served as general manager of AC Hotel Spartanburg in South Carolina, says, “I absolutely love this AC Hotel’s aesthetic.” He adds, “Our public spaces are filled with the works of local and regional artists, and that gives the hotel a definite sense of place.” (ac-hotels.marriott.com) —G.S.

R

Touted as a hotel for millennials, the AC Hotel Naples 5th Avenue, prominently positioned at the intersection of Goodlette-Frank Road and Fifth Avenue South, opened in December. The three-story property comprises 150 sleek and modern guest rooms, a rooftop pool, a ground-floor café, 2,500 square feet of divisible meeting space, and Limón, a destination rooftop restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating.

AC Hotels by Marriott boast purposeful design, carefully crafted, in more than 150 locations around the world. The first in the United States was built in New Orleans. The Naples hotel is the hospitality component

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IT’S A GO!

Kolter is bringing The Island at West Bay Club to life.

Broker Participation Welcomed and Encouraged. ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE SELLER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THIS BROCHURE AND TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A SELLER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. Prices, services, terms, and availability are subject to change at any time without notice. Images are artist’s renderings and may not represent the final building. Furnishings and fixtures are for display purposes and are not included with the residence. Actual improvements, including, recreational facilities and amenities, may vary from those shown. The project has been filed in the state of Florida and no other state. This is not an offer to sell or solicitation of offers to buy the condominium units in states where such offer or solicitation requires prior qualification.

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INSIDER FINDS

NAPLES ORIGINALS TRACE ROOTS TO THE GULF OF MEXICO’S POPULAR VACATION CITY WITH THESE FEATURED ITEMS

ENGAGINGLY EDUCATIONAL Wildlife enthusiast Susan Sachs Levine is a Naples-based children’s picture book author; her second book, Gilbert’s Migration Vacation ($22), is now available at select local retailers. Susan Levine Books, Naples (susanlevinebooks.com) 68

COURTESY OF

SUM

LD IE RF ME

SUPER COOL Founded in the hottest state in the nation, Coldest, a Naplesbased company, strives to engineer and build a line of the coolest products, including a stainless steel, triple-insulated bottle ($32) that keeps beverages chilled for 36 hours or more. The Coldest Water, Naples (coldest.com)

A SWEET IDEA Find all things bee and honey related at Grand Central Honey, a uniquely Naples boutique featuring the best of local, regional, and global small-batch honeys, as well as a selection of honeybased sauces, skin products, and more; try a jar of 100-percent edible raw honeycomb from the Savannah Bee Company ($29). Grand Central Honey, Naples (naplesfloridahoney.com)

DIP YOUR CHIP Tasting the heirloom tomatoes from a local farm was “pure perfection” for chef and Naples resident David McCone; in 2019, he opened The Farm Stand at Naples Canning Co., where he sells the tasty tomatoes in a jar of salsa ($10) for all to enjoy. The Farm Stand at Naples Canning Co., Bonita Springs (naples canningco.com)

COURTESY OF NAPLES CANNING CO.

COURTESY OF SUSAN SACHS LEVINE

THE GIFT OF LOVE Southwest Florida’s favorite chocolatier, Norman Love Confections,, offers the 2024 Valentine’s Day Collection featuring 10 new flavors—including tropical rum, bananas Foster, crème Catalan, and more; selections offered in a five-piece signature gift box ($15) or a 10-piece heart-shaped gift box ($31) through February 14. Norman Love Confections, Naples (normanloveconfections.com)

GATOR MADE Found only in Naples, fine furnishing store Summerfields is still going strong after 26 years and continues to offer a curated selection of unique pieces; reptile lovers will appreciate the 24-karat gold-plated alligator necklace ($175) or alligator ring ($110)—both with cubic zirconia eyes. Summerfields, Naples (summerfieldsnaples.com) S

COURTESY OF NORMAN LOVE CONFECTIONS

BY GAYLENE SALOMONS

NAPLES ILLUSTRATED

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MAX SAFE

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Talk with a banker today about opening a MaxSafe Personal Money Market Special account. $50,000 required to open. No minimum monthly balance or monthly maintenance fees. New money only.2

Wintrust Banking Center is a branch of Lake Forest Bank & Trust Company, N.A. 1. FDIC Insurance. Based on current FDIC deposit insurance coverage rules – see fdic.gov/resources/deposit-insurance/understanding-deposit-insurance/. 2. New Money. New money is defined as money not currently held at any Wintrust Financial Corporation (‘WTFC’) location.

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INSIDER WORTH IT

ALL THAT GLITTERS WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT ROCK

BE NO IT

In the 1953 film Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, Marilyn Monroe famously chimed that “diamonds are a girl’s best friend.” The chorus punctuates otherwise foreboding lyrics warning of fading looks, plummeting stocks, short-lived affairs, and the general uncertainty of life as compared to the steadfast value of jewelry. Lorelei Lee herself could appreciate that while a kiss may be grand, knowledge is, in fact, a girl’s best friend. In addition to working with vendors you trust, there are a few important factors and authentications that can help you determine a stone’s value.

When in doubt, use context clues: jewelry should feel good to wear and look beautiful, well-proportioned, and well-constructed from all angles. Here, we share some expert insight into valuation.

DANIEL FORTUNE

BY KATHERINE VAN DELL AND SEBASTIAN CLARKE

Diamonds The four Cs of diamonds (carat weight, cut, color, and clarity) are well-known, but who decides the subtle difference between “very slightly included” and “very, very slightly included”? Prior to the 1940s, trade terms for diamond quality were often nuanced lingo such as “watery,” used to describe a near colorless diamond, or “Cape color,” in reference to the largely paleyellow diamonds from South Africa’s Cape of Good Hope region. When Robert M. Shipley founded the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in 1931, he recognized the need for a system that could be utilized internationally to uphold trade integrity and buyer confidence. His son, Robert Shipley Jr., and successor, Richard T. Liddicoat, later expounded on RY TO

V

WANT TO HAVE THE ULTIMATE EXPERT PERSPECTIVE? SCAN HERE TO LEARN HOW TO USE A LOUPE.

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his four Cs with a full color and clarity scale, along with objective methods and instruments for grading diamonds. Today, the GIA is the international authority on diamond grading. While not always available, it is good practice to ask if a diamond has a GIA report as it can eliminate a lot of the guesswork.

Gemstones Colored stones (the most precious traditionally being rubies, sapphires, and emeralds) are valued for vibrancy and distinctiveness of color. However, even seemingly specific adjectives—such as the “velvety” or “sleepy” blue of rare Kashmir sapphires or “pigeon’s blood red” of prized Burma rubies—are often used to describe a subjective color. Additionally, gemstones have long been modified with a variety of treatment processes to improve color and clarity. In America, institutions like the American Gemological Laboratory (AGL) produce certifications detailing not just present treatment processes, or the preferable lack thereof, but the region from which a stone was mined. For comparison’s sake, the price per carat of a sapphire determined to have been mined in Ceylon (Sri Lanka) can be a fraction of one mined in Kashmir; situated high in the Himalayas, this small stretch of the Zanskar range was completely depleted by 1887, only five years after it was discovered. Any colored stone with specific regional attribution should come with the paperwork to back it up, like those certifications from the AGL or other international entities of equal report. «

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N APLES . . . we love it, too!

239.316.3883 #1 TEAM IN NAPLES | #1 TEAM IN THE MIDWEST | #1 TEAM IN PARK CITY | #4 TEAM IN THE NATION AMONG ALL BROKERAGES

F L O R I D A

|

I L L I N O I S

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M I C H I G A N

W W W. D AW N M C K E N N A G R O U P. C O M

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U T A H

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W I S C O N S I N

@ T H E D AW N M C K E N N A G R O U P

2023 Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker System and Dawn McKenna Group fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Real Estate Inc. Coldwell Banker, the Coldwell Banker Logo, Coldwell Banker Global Luxury and the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Source: #1 Team in the Midwest, Naples & #4 Large Team by Volume in the Country ranked by RealTrends, as advertised in The Wall Street Journal 2023. #1 team in Hinsdale based on Midwest Real Estate Data closed sales 05/01/2003-09/15/2023.

©

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LET LIFE SHINE

Babcock Ranch is a new kind of hometown, powered by the sun with roots that go deep into the Florida soil. A place built for you and your family to live your happiest, best life for generations to come. Where kids walk to school, next-gen technology creates healthier homes and neighbors can connect to nature, to each other, and to something greater than themselves. Welcome to the bright side of life.

FLORIDA

DIRECTIONS FROM 1-75 Take Exit 143 for FL-78E Head East on FL-78 E/Bayshore Rd. (3.3 miles) Turn left onto Babcock Ranch Rd. (4.5 miles) Turn right onto Lake Babcock Dr. (1 mile)

NEW HOMES FROM HIGH $200s TO OVER $4 MILLION | 941.267.0287 | BabcockRanch.com ©2023 Babcock Ranch. Broker participation is welcome. Prices, plans, specifications, and community design are subject to change. Oral representations cannot be relied upon as correctly stating the representations of the developer. For correct information regarding Babcock Ranch, interested parties should refer to written materials provided by the developer, legislative acts related to Babcock Ranch and the covenants and restrictions of the Babcock Ranch Residential Association, Inc. The information provided above is not intended to be an offering and should be considered as informational only.

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JET-102 Print Ad FINAL-1.pdf 1 10/11/2023 4:09:43 PM

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STYLE

CURATED FINDS, LUXE ACCESSORIES, AND RUNWAY REPORTS 2

MARIO KROES

1

4 3

FORM FOLLOWS FUNCTION DESIGNERS EXPRESS THEIR CREATIVITY WITH COLLECTIONS INFLUENCED BY ART AND DESIGN

BY KATHERINE LANDE 1. Stella McCartney x Sorayama Elyse strawberry print metallic platform shoes ($1,045), Stella McCartney, stellamccartney.com,, Stella McCartney and Japanese artist Hajime Sorayama crafted a unisex collection steeped in sustainability and powerful sensuality. | 5 2. Louis Vuitton x Frank Gehry limited-edition handbags (prices upon request), Louis Vuitton, us.louisvuitton.com, Louis Vuitton’s collab with architect Frank Gehry includes handbags in themes of Architecture and Form, Material Exploration, and Animals. | 3. Leather Origami charm ($520), Fendi, fendi.com,, Fendi’s Origami charm pays homage to the fortune-teller game popular in the 1990s. | 4. Spring/Summer 2024 collection (prices upon request), Alexander McQueen, alexandermcqueen.com, for her final collection for the house, Sarah Burton was inspired by Polish artist Magdalena Abakanowicz’s sculptures representing motherhood, comfort, and protection. | 5. Large link bracelet in high-polished sterling silver ($2,000), Tiffany & Co., tiffany.com, the Tiffany Forge collection boasts an open-link motif evocative of chains from the Tiffany archives. | 6. Loewe x Suna Fujita Penguin mini Puzzle bag ($2,650), Mandragora small Puzzle bag ($3,650), and Panda mini Puzzle bag ($2,900), Loewe, loewe.com, this collection of bags, ready-to-wear, and accessories features characters from Kyoto-based Suna Fujita’s ceramic pieces.

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NAPLESILLUSTRATED.COM | FEBRUARY 2024

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STYLE THE LOOK

BOLD BAUHAUS

AKRIS SPRING/ SUMMER 2024 Clean, minimal lines are elevated with a graphic print inspired by artist Felice “Lizzi” Rix-Ueno.

LEVEL UP YOUR LOOK WITH PRIMARY COLORS INSPIRED BY THIS ART AND DESIGN MOVEMENT

ROLL WITH IT Medium hoop earrings with malachite ($295), Christina Caruso, christina caruso.com

X

BY KATHERINE LANDE

STYLE NOTES ART HISTORY: Focus on solid colors and geometric shapes.

COLOR WHEEL: Play with different colorblocking combinations.

PRINTS 101: Go for bold strokes, angular forms, and vibrant hues.

TRUE BLUE Small Loop earrings ($750), Hermès, Naples, hermes.com

GREEN LIGHT Elsa Peretti Sevillana cuff with green jade and 18-karat gold ($14,900), Tiffany & Co., Naples, tiffany.com

TOP BANANA Yellow leather Fendigraphy mini handbag ($2,150), Fendi, fendi.com

CLEAR SKIES Leather handbag ($2,300), Ferragamo, Naples, ferragamo.com

APPLES AND ORANGES Small hobo bag in orange patent leather ($2,950), Gucci, Naples, gucci.com

UNDER ARMOR Armadillo pumps ($1,090), Alexander McQueen, alexandermcqueen.com

RED CARPET Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello Suite 105 mule sandals in crepe satin ($945), Saint Laurent, ysl.com 76

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Presenting Provident Jewelry’s

EXQUISITE COLLECTION

W E S T PA L M

NAPLES

JUPITER

FORT MYERS

PA L M B E AC H

WELLINGTON

P R O V I D E N TJ E W E L RY. C O M

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STYLE KISS FROM A ROSE Tattoo bowl ($175), Kosta Boda, kostaboda.us Leave a lasting impression on your loved one by gifting Kosta Boda’s Ludvig Löfgren–designed crystal bowl. Inspired by tattoo art, the bowl’s cool combination of romance and rock and roll will surely leave its mark. —Allison Wolfe Reckson, managing editor

THE EDIT

So This is Love

SPOIL THE VALENTINE IN YOUR LIFE WITH THESE EDITOR-APPROVED GIFTS NO DOUBT ABOUT IT Wool beanie ($98), Ralph Lauren, ralphlauren.com Send your boyfriend off to cooler climes with a wool beanie that proclaims he is loved by someone special. It’s as good as putting a ring on it. —Gaylene Salomons, senior editor

SEEING RED Lyma laser ($2,695), Lyma, lyma.life If you, like me, are partnerless on Valentine’s Day, then give yourself the gift of high-tech self-care.

Lyma’s handheld laser is a splurge, but you’re worth it. When used for just 15 minutes daily, this clinicalgrade, FDA-approved laser works to clear scars, improve elasticity, and reduce wrinkles in as little as 12 weeks. —Kristen Desmond LeFevre, contributing editor 78

EGGCELLENT BITE The Perfect Pair cooler gift set ($185), The Caviar Co., thecaviarco.com Food is often considered a love language, and what better way to master this language than gifting your better half a taste of the good life? This cooler contains an ounce each of classic white sturgeon and Siberian sturgeon caviar, alongside French cocktail blinis, crème fraîche, and two mother-of-pearl caviar serving spoons. —Paul Rubio, travel editor TO THE LETTER ABC for You personalized book ($40), Wonderbly, wonderbly.com If you count young readers among your Valentines, then these toddlerperfect tomes have their names written all over them—literally.

Help your kiddos learn their ABC’s through a personalized story in which they star. —Mary Murray, executive editor

WEEKEND LOVER R.M.S. weekender bag ($9,350), Hermès, hermes.com Ensure your loved one shows up in smart style for that romantic Valentine’s Day getaway with this simple yet chic canvas bag. —Jane E. Enos, editor in chief

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STYLE

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BIJOUX

FIRE BREATHERS USHER IN THE YEAR OF THE DRAGON WITH THESE FIERCE ACCESSORIES

5

BY MARY MURRAY

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1. THREE’S COMPANY La Enovesé Designs Curated Collection one-of-a-kind triple dragon charm necklace with clear, ruby, and emerald baguettes set in 24-karat-gold-filled sterling silver, $850. (laenovesedesigns.com) 2. FLY BY NIGHT Anita Ko Lucky Diamond Dragon Talisman necklace with diamonds set in 18-karat gold, $10,500. Marissa Collections, Naples (marissacollections.com) 3. TAKE A CHANCE Jewelmer La Chance dragon pendant with a golden South Sea pearl set in 18-karat gold, $4,520. (jewelmer.com) 4. WILDEST DREAMS Effy Safari dragon ring with diamonds set in 14-karat gold, $5,597. (effyjewelry.com) 5. BACK IN BLACK David Webb dragon bracelet with rubies, diamonds, and black enamel set in 18-karat gold and platinum, $69,000. (davidwebb.com) 6. FULL CIRCLE Natori dragon earrings with diamonds set in 14-karat gold, $2,219. (natori.com) 7. HUG IT OUT Adina Reyter pavé dragon huggie hoops with diamonds set in 14-karat gold, $1,598. (adinareyter.com) 8. GRAB A BITE John Hardy Naga bracelet with diamonds and blue sapphires set in 18-karat gold, $10,500. (johnhardy.com)

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STYLE Everyone needs a hero. Defend your skin from the elements, vanquish fine lines, bring peace to irritated areas, and more with formulas packed with hero ingredients that save the day: Albion Flora Drip, an essence that harnesses the power of five fermented herbs to firm and rejuvenate ($70, albiongarden.com); Eve Lom Radiance Repair Retinol Serum, a powerhouse of liposome-encapsulated retinol and prebiotic oat kernel ferment that gently repairs and protects ($185, evelom.com); Guerlain Abeille Royale Advanced Youth Watery Oil, a healing elixir with royal jelly, black bee honey from Ouessant Island, and honeys from Corscia, Ikaria, and Åland ($145), and Honey Treatment Day Cream, a collagenrestoring cream inspired by clinical honey bandages ($180, Sephora, Naples); Chanel Sublimage La Crème Lumière Ultimate Regeneration and Brightening Cream, enriched with antioxidant-rich vanilla planifolia water and Anthyllis extract to even tone ($430, Chanel counters); and Sulwhasoo The Ultimate S Cream with Ginseng Berry SR to preserve skin’s youthfulness ($450, us.sulwhasoo.com). —Abigail Duffy

ASHLEY MEYER

SKIN CARE SUPERHEROES

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BEAUTY

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NURSURY CLOSET ORGANIZATION THAT

GROWS WITH YOU Customizing a space that can change as your child grows and their needs evolve will make everything easier as you navigate each busy day. By incorporating nursery closet storage at the very beginning of your child’s life, you can instill early habits of organization, and continue this process as your child grows.

Schedule your free design consultation today at www.inspiredclosetsswfl.com.

BONITA SPRINGS

28400 Old 41 Rd., Suite 7

NAPLES

5450 Taylor Rd.

FT. MYERS

9411 Cypress Lake Dr., Unit 2

InspiredClosetsSWFL.com | (239) 948-0022

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RESIDE

DESIGN AND DECOR FOR LUXURIOUS LIVING IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

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Richard Lublin and Christine Stahl Lublin LIVING A FABULOUS LIFE: GOLFING, GIVING, AND ACTING

BY GAYLENE SALOMONS PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK SHIRGHIO

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AT HOME WITH...

hile driving a ball on the Estuary Course at the Grey Oaks Country Club one day in 2013, Richard Lublin saw a stately home being built on the eleventh hole. He decided he liked it. Soon thereafter, he purchased the 9,420-square-foot home in the community where he loved to golf—and was already a member.

In retirement, the former attorney—a founding partner of a Connecticut law firm—became a Screen Actors Guild member, successfully securing acting roles in such noted television shows as Married with Children, Law & Order, and Chicago Hope. In 2019, Richard was awarded a doctorate in fine arts from the University of Connecticut for bridging the two disparate careers of acting and law; he was also a commencement speaker that year.

Living between Connecticut and Barbados, and later Naples, Richard donated his time and money to philanthropic NAPLESILLUSTRATED.COM | FEBRUARY 2024

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RESIDE

Clockwise from above: Richard Lublin and Christine Stahl Lublin at home; bright orange velvet chairs add a bit of H0llywood glamour to the breakfast room; the refurbished living room.

endeavors, establishing educational scholarships in his hometown of Avon, Connecticut, and supporting cancer research at the University of Connecticut and the Lahey Hospital & Medical Center in Burlington, Massachusetts. After losing his wife, Jane, to cancer in 2016, his involvement in the fight

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against the disease continued. A proud moment for him was when, as the chairman of the 2018 Bucket List Bash gala in Naples, he was instrumental in securing Diana Ross as the evening’s entertainment.

Now, he and his wife, Christine Stahl Lublin, whom he married in 2022, have become

philanthropists extraordinaire in Naples.

They have continued Richard’s devotion to help finding a cure for cancer. They are the major sponsors of the fourteenth annual Bucket List Bash in Naples on February 24; they served as the honorary chairpersons and presenting sponsors of the Cherish the Children luncheon held on January 22 in support of Youth Haven—where they say the “results are tangible.” And, new for them this year, they hosted a patron party—for the Naples Winter Wine Festival—at their home.

For many years, Richard has taken a leading role in the Naples International Film Festival—as a sponsor and as an award presenter. Christine has eagerly joined him in this adventure. Richard notes that “the festival is rated as one of the top 15 in the world and over 800 people attended opening night.”

Christine, who has a degree in computer science, worked for IBM for 30 years. When she retired to Naples, she not only joined Richard with his philanthropic activity but also embraced the sport of golf. After playing for only two years, she won a trophy for the most improved golfer at Grey Oaks Country Club.

She also embarked on refurbishing their spacious Grey Oaks home.

“With a place this size, you want to continuously update and have the changes blend in,” she remarks. During COVID, when she reminds there “were not a lot of resources to be

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From left: Art hangs on a feature wall in the foyer; Richard and Christine enjoy a moment in their theater room.

had,” she made minor transitions, like adding wallpaper in the niches of walls, decluttering, and rearranging furniture.

She works extensively with Kathryn Frank, founder and owner of St-Tropez Home—and her assistant Michael—to update their home without disrupting life for her, Richard, and their two cats: Aster and Dorset. Christine’s goal is to slowly modernize the home. In the

kitchen, she has replaced ornate cabinetry with sleek cupboards and countertops.

“I try not to overdecorate,” she says. “It is easy to add a simple thing like up-lighting to achieve a different look.”

Christine chose vivid blue velveteen couches, large Lucite coffee tables, and a shag rug for the great room. In the breakfast room, she placed bright orange velvet

chairs under a Lucite chandelier, adding a bit of Hollywood glamour to their coastal residence.

When it comes to living in Naples, Richard is effusive in his compliments.

“It is such a friendly, happy, and healthy place, with so many good restaurants and parties,” he states.

He freely adds, “We have a fabulous life.” «

NAPLESILLUSTRATED.COM | FEBRUARY 2024

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RESIDE RELAXED LUXURY

TRICIA SHAY PHOTOGRAPHY

W Design Interiors Creating a timeless, luxurious design that is at the same time comfortable and approachable was the goal of Wendy Berry, owner and principal designer at W Design Interiors, and her design team. This traditionally styled Port Royal home nods to the East Indies, and the architecture and high transom bath window are the showpieces in the primary bedroom suite. “For any primary suite, our goal is always to create a comfortable space where the homeowners can relax in a serene environment,” says Berry. “We took advantage of the home’s beautiful outdoor space by incorporating a color scheme of sandy neutrals and ocean blues. The primary bathroom features a harmonious blend of organic, natural materials.” (wdesign.com)

ROOM ROUNDUP

SWEET DREAMS RELAXATION-APPROVED DESIGNS FOR THE MOST IMPORTANT ROOM IN THE HOME

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DRAMATIC SEASIDE HAVEN X

As the name suggests, the primary bedroom is the largest and usually the most attractive bedroom in the home. Typically occupied by the owner, this bedroom often boasts premier placement on the floorplan and optimal views.

When creating primary bedroom suites, interior designers often look to five-star hotels for inspiration, incorporating little luxuries to promote rest and rejuvenation.

We selected primary bedroom creations from six local interior designers to share.

Koastal Design Group Kira Krümm & Co. Warm, inviting, and livable is the approach Kira Krümm, principal interior designer at Koastal Design Group Kira Krümm & Co., took when designing this coastal contemporary beachfront residence on Gulf Shore Drive. Special elements in the primary bedroom suite include a customdesigned bed and furnishings; custom his-and-her cabinetry; a luxurious walk-in shower; a freestanding tub on a chevron-accent tile insert; and custom-lit mirrors. “When designing a primary bedroom, I work with my clients to create a meaningful sanctuary that will be comfortable and aligned with their aesthetic style,” explains Krümm. “I also look for inspiration in the beautiful natural surroundings to create harmony between the indoors and out.” (koastaldesigngroup.com)

BLAINE JOHNATHAN PHOTOGRAPHY

BY MARY THURMAN YUHAS

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950 1st Avenue North, Naples

Amy Moglia Heuerman

Exhale, 60 x 60 inches, acrylic on canvas

239.234.6051 AmyArt.net

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A PLUSH RETREAT Beasley & Henley Interior Design Appointments of silk, elegant draperies, and customdesigned bedding define this romantic primary bedroom suite. The room, found in a home within the Estuary at Grey Oaks, boasts a classically modern design style conceived by Troy Beasley, design principal at Beasley & Henley Interior Design. Of note is the charcoal gray concrete freestanding tub flanked by two wall pendants and an artful image.

“My approach when designing a primary bedroom suite for clients is to give them a space where they can get away from the rest of the home and focus strictly on themselves,” says Beasley. “The space must be a combination of beauty and functional aesthetics where comfort is key.” (beasleyandhenley.com)

Wilfredo Emanuel Designs Realizing a contemporary style that was glamorous and hip for this Bonita Springs home was well within Wilfredo Emanuel’s wheelhouse. The owner and lead designer at Wilfredo Emanuel Designs is known for his modern and voguish creations. As requested, the client’s eyes are the focal point (the custom metal artwork was commissioned by Emanuel), and the bathroom is unique and imbued with a romantic look. “Mixing clean lines with texture gives this bedroom a chic, yet comfortable look,” notes Emanuel. “I always try to design a distinctive and personal accent wall for the enjoyment of my clients.” (wilfredoemanueldesigns.com)

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Mercedes Courland Interior Design Textured wallpaper composed of slivers of wood painted silver and charcoal creates a dramatic backdrop for the bed in this coastal transitional-styled condominium, located in the Marsala enclave at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón. Created by Mercedes Courland, president and creative director at Mercedes Courland Interior Design, the space accounted for a generously sized bath—featuring a his and hers floating vanity by a storage tower.

“Primary bedrooms should be an oasis of comfort and are one of my favorite spaces to design,” states Courland. “Providing a space that is custom-tailored to the clients’ wishes and tastes helps produce a more restful environment where they will sleep better. A primary bedroom should be an indulgence of beauty and opulence.” (mercedescourland.com)

PHILLIP CATES PHOTOGRAPHY

GLITZ, RITZ, AND GLAM

SARGENT ARCHITECTURAL PHOTOGRAPHY

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EYES WIDE OPEN ROBIN HILL PHOTOGRAPHY

SARGENT ARCHITECTURAL PHOTOGRAPHY

RESIDE

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Our Teak Furniture Shines Brighter Than The Rest Wilson Lighting...So Much More Than a Lighting Store

(239) 948-9000

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RESIDE

Wright Interior Group Nan Wright, principal and CEO, and Caitlin Heath, design director, at Wright Interior Group composed this Wyndemere Country Club domicile in Naples. Wrapped in a classic coastal design style, the primary bedroom features laser-cut, soft-lit bedside panels. Other signature elements in the restful retreat include built-in storage with reading nooks on both sides of the recessed bed. “A bedroom suite should be cohesive in design and feel,” details Wright. “It should be a complete retreat for the homeowner away from the bustle of the rest of the home. This bedroom, in its soft palette, achieves that feeling.” (wrightinterior.com)

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DIANA TODOROVA

TRANQUIL SANCTUARY

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RESIDE INSPIRED LIVING

OLD-SCHOOL APPROACH For those who love the idea of fresh florals for fragrance but desire something more permanent and less high-maintenance, consider planted options. Modern Sprout offers stylish grow lights (freestanding, countertop, or wall-mounted) that mimic the sun and come with an app for added support. Use them to nourish indoor plants that can impart both beauty and aroma. Try a classic like gardenias, something unexpected like nutmeg-scented geraniums, or herb varieties like lemon balm, rosemary, or basil for the kitchen. (modernsprout.com)

AWAKEN THE SENSES EASY TIPS FOR INCORPORATING SENSORY DESIGN INTO YOUR HOME

BY LIZA GRANT SMITH To create a truly soothing environment, it’s best to engage more than one sense. Begin by defining the mood you’d like to cultivate, then lean into design choices that evoke that emotion and reflect that intention. Here are a few tricks to stimulate your senses beyond sight.

SMELL A GREAT-SMELLING SPACE CAN BOOST YOUR MOOD, SO GO BEYOND THE SCENTED CANDLE WITH THESE COOL PRODUCTS

NEW-SCHOOL APPROACH With a showroom in Naples, Aroma 360 is focused on the science of aromachology (the study of how smell impacts human behavior).

Whether it be in luxury hotels and spas or personal residences, the brand’s crafted fragrance oils can add depth and character to a space. Select one of the diffusers based on the square footage you are scenting and then pick out a transportive blend. For example, Aroma 360’s best-selling Summer Breeze was inspired by The Ritz-Carlton hotel collection and boasts top notes of cucumber, melon, and violet. (aroma360.com)

HEAR DECIDE WHETHER YOU WANT A ROOM TO SPEAK VOLUMES OR BE A SILENT SANCTUARY

SPEAK UP Thanks to advanced sound technology, you can set up a multiroom sound system throughout your home. By pairing Sonos speakers and their accompanying app with a streaming service such as Spotify, you can create a soundtrack for each primary room. Keep it zen in rooms meant for relaxation and upbeat and engaging in convivial gathering areas. (sonos.com) 94

QUIET TIME Reducing noise can promote a sense of calm and focus. Sound bounces off hardwood and tile floors, so consider layering a plush carpet in areas meant for comfort, such as bedrooms. Another option is cork wallpaper. Designers like Candice Olson for York Wallcoverings have introduced gorgeous versions of this type of wallcovering, which, in addition to being eco-friendly, is an excellent sound absorber. Available at Robb & Stucky, Naples (robbstucky.com)

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Furnit ure I L ighting I Rugs I Accessories I Art I Floral I Gifts

NA PLES—9465 Tamiami Trail N.

239-596-7273 open daily 10:00-5:00

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WESTHOMECOLLECTION.COM

3465 Bonita Beach Rd— BONITA S PRINGS 239-405-7705 Tuesday-Saturday 10:00-5:00

12/21/23 1:49 PM

RESIDE TASTE THE KEY TO ENGAGING THE SENSE OF TASTE IS TO CELEBRATE EPICUREAN EYE CANDY INSTEAD OF HIDING IT BEHIND CLOSED CABINET DOORS

ENTICING EATS An old favorite, the countertop fruit bowl can deliver a pop of color to any kitchen. Fill it with green apples or citrus fruits for an instant dose of cheer. Or purchase a cake stand and glass dome, like this one by William Yeoward Crystal, and make it a habit to pick up or prepare baked goods to display. Available at A Mano, Naples (amano.bz)

DRINK DISPLAYS Keep in mind that taste includes libations. Wine walls are a great way to aesthetically pique the sense of taste. That same effect, on a smaller scale, can be obtained through a bar cart adorned with liquor bottles, mixers, and glassware.

TOUCH IS ESSENTIAL TO THE EXPERIENTIAL NATURE OF A HOME, BECAUSE HOW WE TACTILELY INTERACT WITH A SPACE GREATLY INFLUENCES OUR IMPRESSION OF IT

MIX AND MATCH When it comes to textures, sometimes more is more. By mixing and layering various materials you avoid boredom—both from a visual perspective and a mental perspective. An easy way to achieve this is through pillows. Using pillows of different fabrics and feels creates a sense of depth and elicits intrigue.

TOUCH

CREATE A COCOON Establish one or more areas where you can retreat and find solace in soft fabrics and cushioning. While a weighted blanket can provide that, try building a comfort zone with a cozy couch and sumptuous accessories or installing a hanging chair with a cocoon-like shape, such as this option from Anthropologie. Anthropologie, Naples (anthropologie.com)

Furniture Home Accessories Artwork Jewelry & Gifts

407 Fifth Avenue South 239.643.4202 PeachTreeDesigns.com

“... a treasure trove of a home store.”

Wall Street Journal

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TRADITIONS Classic Home Furnishings

N A P LE S , FL 9 0 9 6T H AV E N STE 10 0 ( 239) 213-1240 M I N N E A P O L IS, MN 4 24 5 E XC E LS IOR BLVD (9 5 2) 285 -2777

W W W.T R A D I T I O N S .C O M

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RESIDE ELEMENTS

RAISE A GLASS

BY LIZA GRANT SMITH

HEAD IN THE CLOUDS Hundreds of glass balls in various sizes are arranged to form a cloud-like orb and give rise to the nomenclature of Regina Andrew’s Nimbus chandelier (starting at $3,200). Clive Daniel Home, Naples (clivedaniel.com)

SEA AND BE SEEN Bring a sense of seaside calm to your interiors with Palecek’s seaglass mirror ($1,868) encircled with recycled glass stones.

Bay Design Store, Naples (baydesignstore.com)

ROOM WITH A VIEW Designer Troy Beasley of Beasley & Henley Interior Design introduced glass-abundant furniture pieces and lighting to give this penthouse a modern yet warm vibe that plays off its Gulf of Mexico views. “This space beams with light during the day and in the evening thanks to the stunning rock crystal chandelier,” he says. Naples (beasleyandhenley.com)

SMOKE SHOW Perfect for creating a layered effect, West Elm’s Foundations smoke glass vases ($133 for set of three) put a moody finish on traditional glass. West Elm, Estero (westelm.com)

RUFFLE SOME FEATURES With its glass base and ruffled edges in either 24-karat gold or platinum, this buffet plate ($120) by Annieglass is the company’s best-selling plate year after year. Fabec Young & Company, Naples (fabecyoungcompany.com) 98

STEVEN ALLEN PHOTOGRAPHY

ENHANCE YOUR DINING DECOR WITH CHIC GLASS ACCENTS

BUTTERFLY EFFECT Swarovski’s Jungle Beats butterfly bell jar ($195) captures natural beauty in its purest and most dynamic form.

Swarovski, Naples (swarovski.com)

REVERSE COURSE The Currey and Company Arden pink chest ($4,940) is a nod to a 1970s reverse-painted glass antique discovered at the Paris Flea Market. Peach Tree Designs, Naples (peachtreedesigns.com) A TOUCH OF MINT These Vista Alegre highball glasses ($100 for set of four) pay tribute to Portuguese artisans who have been creating spiked glasses for more than a century. Arabesque of Naples (arabesqueofnaples.com)

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Join us for a

Trunk Show March 7 – 9 Thursday 10am to 5pm

Friday 10am to 5pm

Saturday 10am to 4pm

953 Central Avenue Naples, FL 239-430-2505

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DIANA TODOROVA

RESIDE

DESIGNER DEFERENCE

UNIQUE INSPIRATION AN INTERIOR DESIGNER INFUSES A CLIENT’S PERSONALITY INTO EVERY PROJECT SHE REALIZES

A strong and bold aesthetic, echoing the personalities of the owners, reigns in this remodeled home that interior designer Leili Fatemi created for repeat clients.

TO DO RO VA

BY GAYLENE SALOMONS

NA DIA

You won’t feel the urge to redecorate every few years should you apply the philosophy of interior designer Leili Fatemi, who believes that if you design your home based on who you are as a person, you will never tire of it.

Fatemi’s strength and success as a designer originate from her approach. Her theory—that our homes should reflect our unique personalities—explains why no two projects of hers are ever alike. She cannot be pigeonholed or described as a style-specific designer.

“I get to know my clients’ personalities,” says Fatemi, a Southwest Florida resident since 2000. Once she figures that out, she is well on her way to realizing unique interior creations for each one.

Fatemi has a bachelor’s degree in design and visual communications; she received her interior design certification in the United Kingdom and has been designing for more than 25 years, including in Europe and Canada (in addition to the United States). She considers herself an “international designer” and rightfully so; her work has been featured on Houzz, a website dedicated to interior design, landscape design, and home improvement— in both the United States and in Europe.

For the past 10 years, Fatemi has owned her

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IT’S JUST FUN TO SAVE MONEY ON THE WORLD’S FINEST DECORATIVE FABRIC!

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RESIDE

DIANA TODOROVA

To reflect the kind and gentle side of her clients, Fatemi chose organic forms and softer accent colors for select rooms.

own interior design business. About two years ago, she opened a full-service firm, Leili Design Studio, in Bonita Springs. When clients from Naples relocated to Sarasota, they commissioned Fatemi’s services for a remodeling project. Originally from New York, the couple are described by Fatemi as strong and bold people. The interior of the home is also strong and bold; dark-colored cabinetry was chosen and black or dark brown and white are the predominant base hues. Bright orange—whether in the form of fresh flowers or tangerines in the fruit bowl—adds vibrant bursts of color.

The wife, a bodybuilder and a live model for artists, is the subject in many of the clients’ personal pieces of art.

Artwork featuring New York City is also on display.

“They are very nice, kind, and gentle,” adds Fatemi about her clients. To reflect this side of their personalities, she injected softer, organic forms—evidenced in the various textural choices like the poufs and the large organic mirror placed in the foyer. She also chose to add a moody, romantic factor, using a variety of playful lighting fixtures and even some silver wallpaper. “I got to know what colors and forms best represent them,” she relays.

“I love to get to know my clients and represent visually who they are.” (leilidesignstudio.com)

MAY 01 MAY 19 T H R O U G H

Filled with murder, mystery, and mayhem, this popular board game and cult classic film-inspired whodunit will have audiences on the edge of their seats and guessing til the very end.

H O S T E D AT: SPONSORED BY:

NAPLES UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST 5200 CR AY TON ROAD | NAPLES, FL 34103

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Soul, electrified.

EXPERIENCE THE TAYCAN 4S CROSS TURISMO. The Taycan Cross Turismo is optimally prepared for big adventures with up to 5 people.

Porsche Naples 3147 Davis Blvd.

Naples, FL 34104 Tel. 239-232-8331 porschenaples.com

© 2024 Porsche Cars North America, Inc. Porsche recommends seat belt usage and observance of traffic laws at all times. European model shown. Some options may not be available in the U.S.

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JOURNEYS

COURTESY OF ROSEWOOD LE GUANAHANI ST. BARTH

YOUR PASSPORT TO THE MOST FASCINATING CORNERS OF THE GLOBE

WANDERLUST

ST. BARTH REDUX

Stunning views abound at Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth, from its beachfront pool (above) to its Admiral Suite (inset).

NEVER ONE TO REST ON ITS LAURELS, ST. BARTH REDEFINES TROPICAL CHIC THANKS TO A TRIO OF REIMAGINED ISLAND LEGENDS

BY PAUL RUBIO

Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth Though it presents as completely organic, St. Barth’s effortless elegance in fact takes tremendous effort. Case in point: Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth, which spent nearly five years perfecting its detail-heavy reinvention NAPLESILLUSTRATED.COM | FEBRUARY 2024

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COURTESY OF ROSEWOOD LE GUANAHANI ST. BARTH

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Clockwise from above: At Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth, look forward to pastel-tinged interiors, ocean views, sunset dinners on the beach, and dining among the myriad design-forward nooks within the Beach House St. Barth.

and integration into the Rosewood portfolio.

Nowadays, the 66-room hotel—the island’s largest—is a highly evolved version of its former self, with its pastel Caribbean cottages completely refurbished and complemented by a surfeit of new amenities. This includes the Beach House St. Barth and its Mediterranean-tinged restaurant, the vibeforward Bar Mélangé, and a beachfront infinity pool with incomparable views over the aquamarine waters of Grand Cul-de-Sac. Also part of the property enrichment is a Rosewood Explorers kids’ club and a complex housing Rosewood’s signature Sense spa, inclusive of a state-of-the-art gym, an ice room, an adults-only

pool, and multiple treatment rooms intersected by reflecting ponds.

Executing Le Guanahani’s reboot involved a deep dive into the wants and needs of today’s travelers and how best to serve them within the 18-acre private peninsula. To maintain a true sense of place and keep one foot in the past, the property preserved its colorful Caribbean aesthetic. All the while, it delicately enhanced many of the gingerbread cottages with private pools. Inside, interior designer Luis Pons delivers a residential feel, where high design meets approachable, often underscored by the likes of four-poster beds, brightly painted wooden headboards, and cabinetry fashioned after vintage luggage.

Amenities and programming consider all trends and mainstays of modern travel—intergenerational, romance, wellness, epicurean— and foster a space that at once caters to the full spectrum of luxury travelers. Personal highlights from a recent stay at Rosewood Le Guanahani St. Barth included a candlelit barefoot dinner on the beach, memorable deep tissue massages at Sense, and lazy afternoons on my sundeck, sipping Champagne, ogling sea turtles emerging from the lapping waves, and fantasizing about relocating permanently to this impossibly perfect island. Knowing (and loving) the property in its former incarnation and revisiting it now is testament to a resort

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where the good life just keeps getting better. (rosewoodhotels.com)

Hôtel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf St. Barth Another reimagination more than a halfdecade in the making, Hôtel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf St. Barth transforms one of the island’s oldest hotels (circa 1970s) into an impressive study in au courant coastal excellence. Etched into a hillside above the port of Gustavia, the property promises sweeping views of the yacht-studded capital, plus easy access (even by foot) to the island’s best restaurants, shops, and nightlife.

Celebrated French interior designers Gilles & Boissier (of Baccarat Hotel New York fame) craft a splendid vision of sophisticated retro chic across Le Carl Gustaf’s 21 bungalows and suites. Expect French Colonial decor of rich dark woods and marble countered with pops of color aplenty, from headboards and cushions draped in a lime-green palm print

R. RÉGLADE, COURTESY OF CHEVAL BLANC ST. BARTH

to canary-yellow throw pillows, sandals, and towels that scream vintage glam.

Each unit boasts a sizable terrace for intimate moments with those postcard-perfect panoramas.

While the hotel doesn’t nestle the beach per se, Shell Beach is a three-minute walk downhill. Here, you’ll find Le Carl Gustaf’s lounger-lined private stretch of fine white sand and sapphire sea plus its gourmet venue, Shellona, where dishes commingle flavors of the Caribbean and the Mediterranean in the best ways imaginable. Think: fish carpaccio St. Barth style (dressed in a passion fruit and green chili sauce) and a tomato-laced local red snapper served with grilled eggplant à la Spetses. DJ-led sessions, a high-energy atmosphere, and Shellona’s proximity to the port make it a daytime hot spot for not only hotel guests but also transient yachties and downtown residents.

Come evening, dine alfresco at the property’s hilltop restaurant, Beefbar, the latest outpost of the popular European concept, largely focused on

high-quality cuts of meat as a blank canvas for decadence. The braised Wagyu beef quesadillas (with Oaxaca cheese and black truffle) and the miso black beef from the robata grill are two favorites among hard-core carnivores. Vegans can delight in the likes of bao buns made with plant-based meats and a flavorful white beet carpaccio with tomato and strawberry dashi. (hotelsbarriere.com)

Cheval Blanc St. Barth A love match between Caribbean natural beauty and St. Tropez sensibility dazzles at Cheval Blanc St. Barth, which now comprises 61 dreamy rooms, suites, and villas as well as the sublime Cheval Blanc Spa and big-deal restaurants, La Cabane and La Case. Expanding its footprint from the original Maison of the esteemed Cheval Blanc collection, the property added 19 hillside suites and a five-bedroom residence, integrating the new inventory into a comprehensive revamp by acclaimed French interior designer Jacques Granges.

Though mainly cast in light distressed wood and bone-white furnishings, guest

R. RÉGLADE, COURTESY OF CHEVAL BLANC ST. BARTH

COURTESY OF HÔTEL BARRIÈRE LE CARL GUSTAF ST. BARTH

C. SEGUES, COURTESY OF CHEVAL BLANC ST. BARTH

Clockwise from right: the beach club and swimming pool, yoga alfresco, and massage pavilion at Cheval Blanc St. Barth; a private pool and views over Gustavia at Hôtel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf St. Barth.

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suites erupt with color as the turquoise of Flamands Bay and the emerald of native flora penetrate windows and floor-to-ceiling glass doors, complementing the tropical prints of soft goods and art.

Cheval Blanc The oceanside reverie continues Beach along the sands of Flamands Beach, Suite where guests alternate between the full-service beach club and two sleek swimming pools, all strewn with ivory parasols and taupe sun loungers. Around this water world, discover Granges’ visionary toes-in-thesand Le Cabane restaurant, a top spot for beach bubbles, bikini-conscious cuisine, and languid days of good conversation and people watching.

Come evening, the social and dining scenes shift to La Case, an interpretive showcase of Caribbean cuisine by French celebrity chef Jean Imbert.

As part of its redesign, Cheval Blanc St. Barth has been repositioned as a wellness retreat. The bi-level Cheval Blanc Spa is the only facility in the

V. MATI, COURTESY OF CHEVAL BLANC ST. BARTH

JOURNEYS

entire Caribbean offering Guerlain treatments, augmented by an all-star team of self-care specialists including yoga masters available for private sessions. To maintain a connection with island nature, therapies and sessions can be arranged in an outdoor pavilion, surrounded by lush gardens and coconut forests. Further this bond by taking either a guided or solo hike to Colombier Beach; a trailhead begins right off Flamands Beach and snakes through the cactus-specked hills, revealing some of the best sunset vantage points in all of St. Barth. (chevalblanc.com) «

DESTINATION: ST. BARTH

X St. Barth is now easier to reach thanks to Tradewind Aviation’s increased daily flight frequency between San Juan, plus direct routes connecting the island to Anguilla, Antigua, and St. Thomas. Island-hopper flights on Tradewind’s Pilatus PC-12s are often timed according to arrivals and departures from Florida feeder markets, making the entire process of reaching the tropical French paradise quick and painless. (flytradewind.com)

T he Pe rfe c t Set t i n g Fo r An y O ccasi o n The ultimate event destination in the heart of Southwest Florida, Vineyards Country Club provides an elegant setting to create lifelong memories with loved ones, friends, and guests.

VineyardsCountryClubNaples.com I 239-353-1500

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A R E A R U G S are the centerpiece of your home décor.

OVER 8000

AREA RUGS IN STOCK

HADINGER “A family name you can trust”

Flooring

Est. 1931

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6401 North Airport-Pulling Road • Naples, FL 34109 Mon - Fri 9-5:30pm • Sat 10-5pm 239-566-7100 • hadingerflooring.com

12/15/23 9:34 AM

JOURNEYS

WASHINGTON.ORG

Clockwise from far left: Jefferson Memorial during cherry blossom season; scenes from the Conrad Washington, D.C., including the view-heavy Sakura Club, the snazzy lobby bar, a stunning skylit atrium, and a crisp, handsome guest room.

QUICK TRIPS

A Capital Experience

WASHINGTON, D.C. PROVES THE ULTIMATE MASH-UP OF AMERICA’S PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE

BY PAUL RUBIO

STAY Backed by two of today’s most illustrious names in modern design, Herzog & de Meuron and Rottet Studio, the 11-story Conrad Washington, D.C. is a visual feast for the senses, centrally located at the intersection of New York Avenue and Tenth Street Northwest. Upon entering the glassheavy construct, ascend to the third-floor lobby—a skylit atrium veiled in contoured assemblies of steel mesh suspended from 100 feet above—where an illuminated circular pendant dangles at its core. A labyrinth of curvaceous corridors and hallways leads to myriad cozy lounge nooks and the start of 360 minimalist suites and guest rooms (which, at a minimum, measure an ample 416 square feet). Upgrade to a Sakura Club–level room on the tenth floor to gain access to a refined club lounge with panoramic city views, daily breakfast and dinner presentations (each showcasing 110

a different cuisine, from Greek to Mexican), nightly cocktail hours and whiskey tastings, and a fully stocked snack fridge, freezer, and pantry to satisfy cravings at all hours. (conradwashingtondc.com)

EAT & DRINK Of the 24 Michelin stars awarded to restaurants in the greater D.C. area, two shine from a quaint, century-old brick building at 1015 Seventh Street Northwest. While

ground-level Kinship (kinshipdc.com) presents chef Eric Zeibold’s thoughtful take on modern American cuisine à la carte, the upstairs Métier (metierdc.com) does so through a more daring multicourse tasting menu.

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“As Exclusive Yachts founding members, we were drawn to the flexibility and simplicity. “

We look forward to incredible yachting experiences in Naples and beyond.

Chris & Jessica ZAZO | Hailstone Vineyards

this is YACHTING. SMARTER. Dedicated Concierge | Diverse Fleet | Global Destinations | Lower Costs | ZERO Headaches

...the way yachting should be.

SCAN QR CODE

o f f e r i n g e n d l e s s m e m b e r s - o n ly y a c h t i n g e x p e r i e n c e s 239.963.9454

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EXCLUSIVEYACHTS.CLUB

TO LEARN MORE

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JOURNEYS

WASHINGTON.ORG

tasty pan-Pacific bar bites.

Finally, D.C. is the center of the Ethiopian diaspora in the United States—and it has amazing ethnic cuisine to prove it. Discover a plethora of authentic haunts hidden among D.C.’s alphabet streets, none more welcoming than Chercher (chercherrestaurant.com), which offers a memorable vegan sampler platter plus heartier meat-based dishes.

WASHINGTON.ORG

SEE & DO

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Ditch Google Maps and get lost in epic tales of American history across the great outdoors of the National Mall (nps.gov/nama), which extends from the United States Capitol to the Potomac River and includes the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, and World War II Memorial. Go for deep cultural dives—free of charge—within your choice of 17 museums, galleries, and complexes comprising the Smithsonian Institution (si.edu). The National Museum of Natural History, National Air

X

For mid-Atlantic farm-to-table excellence peppered with Asian and European influences, try Ris (risdc.com), chef Ris Lacoste’s eponymous neighborhood restaurant and a semifinalist for the James Beard Foundation’s 2023 award for Outstanding Restaurant. For a heady mix of refined American cuisine, Spanish tapas, and plenty of jamón Ibérico, reserve a table at The Bazaar by José Andrés (thebazaar.com), found within the handsomely preserved late-nineteenthcentury tower of the former General Post Office, which today accommodates the Waldorf Astoria Washington, D.C. During daylight hours, anchor a stroll along the freshly minted District Wharf with lunch or happy hour at Tiki TNT (tikitnt. com), where owner/distiller Todd Thrasher takes inspiration from his global travels to create rum-spiked cocktails, each more Instagram-worthy than the next, paired with

JONATHAN THORPE

LOUIIE VICTA

WASHINGTON.ORG

Clockwise from far left: Savory waffles are brunch standouts at The Bazaar

by José Andrés; get lost among the museums, memorials, and monuments including the National Museum of Natural History, the Washington Monument, and the World War II Memorial; quench your thirst with a rum cocktail at Tiki TNT.

DON’T MISS COINCIDING WITH D.C.’S MOST PICTURESQUE TIME OF YEAR, THE 2024 NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL WILL RUN FROM MARCH 20 TO APRIL 14.

(NATIONALCHERRYBLOSSOMFESTIVAL.ORG)

and Space Museum, and National Museum of African American History and Culture are three favorites.

Come spring, get bird’s-eye views of D.C.’s iconic sights and cityscapes—cocktail in hand—from one of its many chic rooftop bars. For voyeuristic scopes of the White House, try Vue (vuerooftopdc.com); for the Capitol Building and the downtown skyline, head to Summit back at the Conrad; and for the Kennedy Center, Potomac River, Washington Monument, and more, check out Top of the Gate, which crowns the infamous Nixon-era Watergate Hotel (thewatergate hotel.com). «

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THIRD STREET SOUTH GLAMOUR & GOOD TIMES

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Clockwise from far left: Hotel AKA Brickell’s porte cochere; Brickell City Centre; mojito at Marabú inside Brickell City Centre; light-filled interiors and grilled branzino at Adrift Mare; new twenty-fifth-floor lounge at Hotel AKA Brickell.

FLORIDIANA

BETTER IN

BRICKELL

THIS MIAMI NEIGHBORHOOD PUTS A SOUTH FLORIDA SPIN ON BIG-CITY LIVING

BY MARY MURRAY

Miami is a metropolis all its own, but Brickell offers a taste of Manhattan that consummate city dwellers will find hard to ignore.

Nestled between Downtown and Key Biscayne, Brickell is famous for its top financial firms, high-rise condos, upscale shopping, hip new restaurants, bayfront views, and walkability. This is a neighborhood where high-energy Miami vibes give way to luxe livability, and few hotels capture that quite like Hotel AKA Brickell (stayaka.com).

Known for hotels that bring top-notch lifestyle amenities to destination neighborhoods stateside and globally, the AKA brand purchased this spot at the Brickell Arch in 2021 and embarked on a $16 million reimagination

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of the 201-key property. Lauded architecture firm Gabellini Sheppard Associates stepped in to elevate the aesthetic and guest arrival experience. This included moving the lobby from the twenty-fifth floor to the ground level, enabling visitors to disembark at a porte cochere—enhanced with greenery and water features—and enter a tranquil space that sets the tone for their entire stay.

That twenty-fifth floor is now home to a central lounge as well as Adrift Mare (adriftmare.com/ miami), a new restaurant by Michelin-starred chef David Myers. Situated within an 11-story atrium topped with a custom

installation of more than 100 lanterns, Adrift Mare fuses cosmopolitan style with a captivating menu of Mediterranean delights. Everything from the grilled king prawns finished with Fresno chili and lobster oil to the shish kebabs with pickled vegetables is thoughtfully conceived and layered with flavors sure to ignite every corner of your palate. Even simple side dishes—such as the crispy eggplant fried in an activated charcoal batter—are deceptively complex.

Hotel AKA Brickell also boasts a spa, fitness center, and rooftop pool. When you’re ready to explore elsewhere, however, take advantage of the myriad eateries and hot spots within walking distance, or hop onto the Metromover to discover other Downtown pockets.

A short stroll away is Brickell City Centre (brickellcitycentre.com), a massive indooroutdoor complex with dozens of big-name stores and such headline-grabbing culinary outposts as The Henry and Casa Tua. Augment your retail therapy with a stop at Marabú (maraburestaurant.com). Here, Miami meets Cuba across a menu of modern classics like truffle yuca fries, pan-seared salmon with sour orange, and a divine rendition of ropa vieja.

Walking back to the AKA, you might cross paths with a food-delivery robot, a young couple on their way to school pickup, or a barrage of bankers skirting the sidewalk in single file. They’re all a part of the fabric of this community and what make it one of Miami’s most exciting enclaves. «

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JOURNEYS HIGH ROAD

TRIDENT MISSILE MASERATI’S MID-ENGINE MC20 SUPERCAR OFFERS 202-MPH DRIVING NIRVANA

BY HOWARD WALKER

Y

ou won’t find this feature listed in any owner’s manual. It’s not highlighted in the glossy brochures. But the steering wheel start button on Maserati’s new MC20 supercar comes neatly hardwired to every single one of those teeny hairs on the back of your neck. Just press the big blue button, hear the MC20’s 621-hp twin-turbo V6 explode to life with all the ferocity of Krakatoa, and you’ll instantly feel those follicles stand to attention like those fuzzy-hatted guards outside Buckingham Palace.

Maserati calls its new V6 technical masterpiece Nettuno, which translates to Neptune in Italian. The mythical sea god’s trident happens to be Maserati’s iconic logo.

Yet, this remarkable new power plant is simply the icing on the triple-layer chocolate cake that is the sensational MC20. Unveiled in 2020, this mid-engine super coupe is the poster child for Maserati’s return to relevance. Together with Maserati’s new Grecale compact SUV, GranTurismo two-door coupe, and clear focus on electrification with the upcoming Folgore EV models, the MC20 showcases a much brighter future for the Trident brand, now part of the burgeoning Stellantis group.

Just look at the thing. It’s one of the most stunning exotics money can buy, right up there with pricier rivals like Lamborghini’s Huracán, Ferrari’s 296 GTB, and McLaren’s Artura. The beauty here is a swimsuit catalog of toned curves and taut muscles, without the typical supercar plethora of fighter-jet wings and aero add-ons.

But its exotic style goes deeper than looks.

The car is built around a state-of-the-art, singlepiece, super-stiff carbon-fiber chassis. Flying down the road, the whole car tips the scales at a fighting-fit 3,300 pounds. That helps account for the car’s rock-out-of-a-catapult performance.

Dial up the most aggressive Corsa drive setting, engage launch control, hit it, and the Mazzer will slingshot from standstill to 60 mph in 2.9 seconds. It won’t quit until the speedo is showing 202 mph. The way this new V6 screams to its 7,500-rpm red line is like having the Three Tenors sitting in the passenger seat, hitting the high notes in “Nessun Dorma.”

Climb aboard through that high-lifting butterfly door, settle into the well-bolstered bucket seat, and place your hands on the lovely wheel of carbon fiber and Alcantara. Aah. If there’s a criticism here, it’s the lack of a sense of occasion. The

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POWER FILE PRICE: FROM $217,000 ENGINE: 3.0-LITER TWINTURBO V6 TRANSMISSION: 8-SPEED DUAL-CLUTCH POWER: 612 HP TORQUE: 538 LB-FT 0-60: 2.9 SECONDS TOP SPEED: 202 MPH LENGTH/WIDTH: 184/77 INCHES WEIGHT: 3,300 POUNDS WHY WE LOVE IT: BECAUSE THIS STUNNING SUPERCAR IS NOTHING LESS THAN POETRY IN MOTION.

V

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whole cabin is minimalist and functional— bleak, almost. All that gray upholstery could have come out of a 1980s Buick.

But the twin 10.3-inch digital displays (one a configurable instrument cluster, the other a touchscreen mounted low above the center console) do away with traditional buttons and knobs. Here, there’s little to distract you from the main business of hard driving.

And drive it does. The steering is laser precise, with perfect weighting and telegraphic feedback. It just adds to the car’s sensational feel-

ing of lightness and agility. Turn into a tight corner and the combination of that awesome steering, huge chunks of rubber at each corner, and adaptive suspension makes the MC hammer around as if it’s running on invisible rails.

Perhaps the best part of the driving experience is just how easy it is to drive fast. The car almost shrinks around you, making it feel way less intimidating than some supercars. There’s excellent visibility, courtesy of big door mirrors and a camera-fed digital rearview mirror. Driving this Italian thoroughbred is like drinking a triple espresso after a lifetime of decaf.

It’s hard to think of $217,000 as a great value, but with the MC20 it is. Yes, must-have options (like the $4,000 front suspension lift, $5,500 20-inch forged alloys, and $10,000 carbon-ceramic Brembo brakes) will push the price closer to a quarter of a million. But it’s still worth every penny.

The biggest challenge will be choosing the MC20 coupe over the gorgeous folding-hardtop Cielo roadster version, which has a base price of around $250,000. Trust me, either one will have those neck hairs standing to attention. «

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JOURNEYS HIGH SEAS

CLASS ACT CHRIS-CRAFT’S BRAND-NEW CATALINA 28 CENTER CONSOLE IS A MARRIAGE OF FAMILY FUN AND STYLE

BY HOWARD WALKER

Is there such a thing as the ultimate Florida boat? It’s a tough category considering the sheer volume of contenders worthy of this nautical Oscar. I still have sore feet and worn Sebagos from three days of pounding the docks at last year’s Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show in search of an answer.

One true standout is the latest offering from Sarasota-based Chris-Craft, the Catalina 28, which made its red-carpet debut at the show. This addition to the Catalina center console lineup slots neatly between Chris-Craft’s popular 24 and 30 models, and it checks an Amazon fulfillment center’s worth of boxes.

I recently spent a morning piloting this 28-footer around Sarasota Bay, close to Chris-Craft HQ, where the company has opened a 70,000-square-foot factory to build it. What’s the appeal? For me, 28 feet is just about the perfect size for day-boaters looking for a fun time out on the water with friends and family. Even at this size, the Catalina offers comfy seating for at least 11, a wellequipped cockpit galley, an enclosed head, and a generous 9-foot beam for stability and easy walking around.

Plus, for those who adhere to the ethos that life’s too short to own an ugly boat, this new Catalina is the Christie Brinkley of center consoles—stylish, classy, athletic, and essentially ageless. Yes, it keeps the signature Chris-Craft design cues, including a gor-

«

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The Catalina 28 impresses with its signature ChrisCraft design elements and exceptional craftsmanship.

geous Carolina Flare bow, an elegant reverse transom, and wood trimmings. But it features a new wide-body hull for a smoother ride and sportier handling.

It also has the power. The standard engine setup is a pair of Mercury Verado 225 V8s.

But you’d be foolish not to step up to the twin 300-hp Verados with their easy-docking joy-

stick control. Like to go fast? With the purring 300s, the Catalina 28 can fly at an eye-watering 60 mph.

Stepping aboard is a breeze, courtesy of the starboard-side “dive” door. I’ve taken to calling it the “Labrador” door as it makes life so much easier for a four-legged Fido to enter the cockpit from the dock.

As with any good center console, there’s a sizable hardtop over the helm, though ChrisCraft refers to it as a pilothouse on account of the three-piece tempered glass windshield that gives plenty of protection from the elements. Perched at the helm and gliding across Sarasota Bay at 50 mph, there was hardly a whistle of wind.

And because being shaded from the sun is becoming more and more important to us Florida boaters, I give full marks to the 28’s power-deploying SureShade bimini top and Mediterranean-style canvas shade over the foredeck, which essentially provide complete coverage for the entire boat.

What hasn’t changed with this new Catalina

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28 is Chris-Craft’s single-minded focus on craftsmanship. This, to me, is what really sets it apart. It’s dressed in diamond-quilted upholstery, shiny stainless fittings, and mile-deep paintwork available in a choice of 12 colors. The wooden steering wheel wouldn’t look out of place in a vintage Jaguar.

Out on the water, the Catalina is a true joy to drive, and much of this comes down to the Seakeeper Ride active trim tabs on the lower transom. Acting like flaps on a Gulfstream jet, they can reduce roll by 42 percent and quell fore-aft pitch by 53 percent. Punch the throttles from rest and instead of the bow pointing up at Mars, the Seakeepers keep the nose down, reducing the drama while increasing forward visibility. Spin the wheel to go hard into a turn, and the flaps decrease the lean dramatically. They’re a revelation and completely automatic.

Naturally, this level of Bentley-like quality and painstaking attention to detail doesn’t come cheap. A base 28 is priced at around $340,000. However, if you want the beefier engines, a Seakeeper gyro for no-roll stability at anchor, the SureShade bimini, and engines painted to match the hull, you’re looking at closer to $400,000. Think of it as a small price to pay for the perfect Florida boat. «

POWER FILE PRICE: FROM $339,900 LENGTH: 28 FEET BEAM: 9 FEET WEIGHT: 8,680 POUNDS ENGINES: TWIN VERADO 225 OR 300 TOP SPEED: 60 MPH WITH 2 X 300 HP WHY WE LOVE IT: BECAUSE IT BRINGS CLASSIC STYLE, LUXURY, AND ELEGANCE TO THE WATER.

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FRESHEST VARIETY WITH THE FINEST LOCAL INGREDIENTS

Bistro 821 located in the heart of Naples is the longest running restaurant on Fifth Avenue South. Bistro 821 is a neighborhood gem where locals and visitors alike come to dine. Our menu offers a variety of fresh seafood, choice steaks and house-made risottos. We source the finest ingredients available from locally owned and operated vendors. Our creative cocktails and mouthwatering meals will leave you wanting more!

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239.758.9500 Sales Gallery: 365 Fifth Ave. S. MetropolitanNaples.com ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THIS WEBSITE AND TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. All artist’s renderings are proposed concepts shown only for marketing purposes and are based upon current development plans, which are subject to change by the developer, Aura at Metropolitan Naples LLC, which reserves the right to make changes at its sole discretion, without prior notice or approval of the purchaser. This project has been filed in the state of Florida and no other state. This is not an offer to sell or solicitation of offers to buy the condominium units in states where such offers or solicitation cannot be made. This advertisement does not constitute an offer where prior registration or other qualification is required. Prices, availability, plans, features, dimensions, specifications and amenities are subject at any time without notice. All Rights Reserved. Equal Housing Opportunity.

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For the Love of

SHARKS MORE AT HOME IN THE OCEAN THAN ON LAND, A NAPLESBASED EMMY AWARD–WINNING WILDLIFE VIDEOGRAPHER TAKES A LEADING ROLE IN PROTECTING ONE OF THE PLANET’S MOST FEARED AND MISUNDERSTOOD APEX PREDATORS

BY GAYLENE SALOMONS PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMMA CASAGRANDE

Andy Casagrande IV is at peace in the ocean, where he claims he spends more time than he does on land. And somewhat hard to fathom, he feels safer swimming with sharks than he does on city streets.

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“

THE POLITE PREDATORS ARE FOCUSED ON SURVIVAL—NOT US. ONCE WE ENTER THEIR TERRITORY, WE ARE NO LONGER THE ALPHA; IN THE SEA, HUMANS ARE POTENTIAL PROTEIN FOR PREDATORS. THE SHARKS AREN’T BEING MALICIOUS. IT’S BIOLOGICAL. AND LUCKY FOR US, SHARKS DON’T THINK WE TASTE GOOD.” —ANDY CASAGRANDE IV

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As a wildlife videographer, Andy Casagrande IV found a job that allows him to spend more time underwater than on land, swimming with the very creatures that so intrigue him.

YOU HAD ME AT “SHARK” Born in New York and raised in a small town near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Andy experienced a transient secondary education (even spending a semester at sea), eventually graduating from California State University, Long Beach with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a minor in biology. He has always been fascinated with predators, from eagles to polar bears to lions to killer whales; he particularly loves sharks though. He aspired to being a scientist as a young boy, but after realizing that most spend their days in sterile labs, he decided he wanted a job that put him out in the field with the very creatures that so intrigued him.

Andy’s father suggested he find a career that would pay well and therefore allow him to spend his free time in the wild. He found a position as a customer service representative in the computer science industry; whenever he had a spare second, he researched sharks. He

corresponded with numerous shark scientists, offering to volunteer during his vacation time, working for no pay. Along with his inquiries, Andy sent an MP4 recording of a song he wrote and sang about great white sharks.

A scientist in South Africa responded, offering him food and lodging in exchange for his time. He did not bother reading Andy’s résumé until the day before he was to arrive; he had only listened to the song.

When he learned Andy had no experience, he wasn’t too worried. On a boat where a crew shares close quarters, it is always nice to have someone fun along. Based on his witty shark song, Andy would provide—if nothing else—entertainment.

He took on the responsibility of photo identification of every shark the crew encountered. The three-month voluntary assignment turned into three years where, while living his dream of swimming with

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sharks, Andy made pocket money busking on boats playing his guitar and singing his shark song. “I was in heaven,” he recalls.

On one excursion when everyone was sick due to rough weather and water, Andy competently assumed the role of videographer. The film crew, who were along on assignment from the National Geographic television network, were so impressed that they announced they were going to offer Andy a job on staff. To his surprise, they did.

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DIVING DEEP INTO A NEW CAREER AND RELATIONSHIP Andy began his tenure with the National Geographic television network, where he was based in Washington, D.C. Always on the road, he kept only a bike in the capital city and could jam all he owned into a backpack. On assignment in the Serengeti Desert to film lions one year, Andy met a hairstylist from Sweden named Emma. Emma’s cousin, whom she was traveling with, had secured a few nights of accommodation at a research station where Andy was staying. With few visitors at the remote center, Andy was eager for conversation with the travelers.

“It was completely random,” Emma explains about meeting Andy and spending two days visiting and chatting. When she left, Emma scribbled her telephone number on a piece of paper and passed it to the itinerant videographer, certain she would never hear from him again.

Amazingly enough, the two kept in touch and six months later decided to meet in Costa Rica. Emma describes herself as an adventurer.

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“I love to travel,” she says. “I’m a diver and a horse girl.”

In fact, Emma even lived in the Democratic Republic of the Congo with her family for a short period when younger. As an established hairstylist at only 24 years of age, she explains she worked hard and saved her money, enabling her to fly around the world to visit Andy.

She began requesting longer absences from work to visit exotic locales, admitting the couple had “zero plans, illusions, or goals” about their future.

When Andy was sent to film king cobras in India, he informed Emma he was going to visit Sweden en route. It was Emma’s boss who alerted her that Sweden was not on the way to India. There was an ulterior motive—Andy really wanted to see Emma. It dawned on her the two were more than adventure travel companions.

In 2010, after dating for three years, the pair married, and Emma

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Clockwise from top right: Andy, Emma, Nova, and Ace Casagrande often share adventures as a family; Emma surveys the scene; Andy with Ace, holding the camera.

Opposite page: Emma and Andy on assignment together

moved to the United States. Andy proposed they move to Naples, where his Nana (the matriarch of the family) owned a few homes. The Casagrandes have made Naples their home for the past 13 years and have two children—Ace (10) and Nova (8)—who attend Lake Park Elementary School.

From the time they first met, Andy quite literally threw Emma into the deep end—sharing his knowledge, love, and admiration for sharks, teaching her camera skills and how to manipulate the massive amounts of equipment needed for his job. As Andy’s career successfully continued, Emma’s blossomed. Today she is an integral part of the team, working alongside Andy as a photographer and dive partner.

After three years on staff with National Geographic, Andy, who did not wish to spend time sitting at a desk—“everyone has an obligation at some point in their career with the organization,” he explains—started his own company, ABC4EXPLORE. He continues to work with National Geographic and films for such networks as ABC, BBC, NBC, FOX, Animal Planet, and Discovery Channel, where his career-defining work to date was filming for Shark Week.

With more than 100 film credits to his name, the freelance videographer always seems to be working. In fact, his first scheduled interview with Naples Illustrated had to be cancelled when Andy had to fly to South Africa, where a whale carcass floating close to shore was attracting sharks—presenting a serendipitous filming opportunity.

The family frequently travels the world together on assignment, leaving town for most of the summer. “Andy does a great job of keeping the family together,” says Emma.

About Naples, Emma says, “I love it here. It’s an amazing place to raise children. I believe we will always have a presence in Naples.”

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Nova dives deep to explore the wildlife found underwater.

SWIMMING WITH THE LOCALS Andy inevitably inspires people to care about our oceans through his copious body of work documenting marine life. He is thrilled to bring his passion for conservation to his hometown.

“This is my backyard. I need to do something,” he comments. “I live here and enjoy it, so I should protect it.”

In 2016, Andy and Emma shot the underwater sequences in Paradise Reef, a documentary film detailing the story of Naples residents working together to install more than 30 artificial reefs off the coast of Collier County.

The film won a 2016 Suncoast Regional Emmy Award in the tropical documentary category.

In December 2022, Andy and Emma embarked on a baseline study to monitor the presence and movements of the shark species that live and migrate in our nearby waters.

Seven listening devices known as VR2Ws, a global standard of ultrasonic receivers used by shark researchers around the world, were placed at various locations 15, 25, and 40 miles northeast from Collier County’s coast.

Collected data will provide an understanding of local shark movement and will be shared with the Florida Atlantic Coast Telemetry Network, a grassroots collaboration of marine scientists using acoustic telemetry to understand and conserve the region’s fish species. It will also be made available to any scientists or organizations looking to collaborate on research efforts.

Andy’s company self-funded this baseline study with the help of his social media followers, which currently number 240,000.

He hopes to expand his work alongside local conservation groups and is actively seeking additional funding to recruit a team of researchers and university students to help analyze the data and further expand the study.

Pursuing his passion has positioned Andy, at age 47, firmly on the shark side of life. As 70 percent of the planet is covered with water, the future looks bright for the Casagrande family, promising many more years swimming in the ocean—documenting and protecting Earth’s oldest creatures, ensuring they never go the way of the dinosaur. «

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“

MY LIFE’S WORK HAS BEEN DOCUMENTING MARINE LIFE TO INSPIRE PEOPLE TO CARE ABOUT OUR OCEANS.” —ANDY CASAGRANDE IV

Clockwise from below: Andy filming underwater; Emma on location; Ace, in scuba gear, studies a young shark.

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JUST

A NEAPOLITAN TAPS INTO HIS CURIOSITY, CREATIVITY, AND CONNECTIONS TO EFFECT SOCIAL CHANGE AND INSPIRE OTHERS TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

BY PATRICIA JANEWAY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK SHIRGHIO Shot on location at the home of Randy and Ronnie Antik, Naples

CURIOUS R andy Antik is finishing lunch on the sun-dappled terrace of the clubhouse where he lives in Naples when the waiter presents the check. He asks, “If I sign this, will you tell a story?” The young man replies in an Irish brogue, “I don’t really have a story, sir.” That’s all it takes to urge the lad to open up. “If you’re Irish, you must have a story,” says Antik, who never lets a moment pass without learning more about those who surround him.

This inquisitiveness seemingly has been a constant throughout Antik’s 80 years on the planet—from finding success as a turnaround expert to amassing a major wood art collection to excelling in his present avocation as co-founder and CEO of the Naplesbased nonprofit Searching for Solutions Institute (SFSI).

“I’m highly curious, and that curiosity drives a lot of things for me,” he explains. “Some people might say, ‘Randy’s really good at asking questions.’ I think I’m really good at listening.”

He tapped into those talents shortly after moving to Naples in 2006, when he recognized a need for private-sector leadership to address myriad critical issues facing the world. Over the next two years, he met with top executives at Aspen Institute; Technology, Entertainment, Design (better known as TED); and Milken Global Institute—as well as individual thought leaders from all over.

“I saw great potential for intellectual networking with a purpose and bringing together like-minded people who wanted to effect social change and make a difference,” he says.

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Corporate Directors, and Arthrex. “One minute they were strangers, and within 10 minutes, they were all sharing ideas,” he recalls.

Antik is often asked how he connects with so many remarkable individuals and puts together a groundbreaking conference year after year. “I don’t know how I do it,” he claims. “I can get through doors, not understanding how it happens. I’ve been lucky.”

But, those who know him well chalk it up to more than good fortune.

“Randy’s a firm believer that you’ll never hear ‘yes’ unless you’re willing to hear ‘no’,” says Mike Martin, retired president of Florida Gulf Coast University and SFSI board member. “As a result, he has created an intellectual epicenter in the community that I think has inspired and stimulated people, and he’s done it through connections, creativity, and remarkable tenacity.”

Dick Munro, former chairman and CEO of Time, Inc. (now Time Warner), who has attended every Imagine Solutions Conference from the beginning, adds, “Each year, Randy puts together a program that is truly extraordinary, and I’m still somewhat baffled by how he does it. I’ve often thought it’s a shame more people aren’t exposed to it because I think anyone who is interested in what’s going on in the world would be absolutely blown away.”

Randy Antik founded the Imagine Solutions Conference, a typically sold-out event, held in Naples, that features worldclass experts covering myriad topics, from innovation and creativity to science and technology.

That grassroots research was the genesis in 2008 for the Imagine Solutions Conference—an annual one-day summit of 18-plus world-class thought leaders in the fields of science, technology, medicine, education, innovation, and the arts who speak on cutting-edge issues of global significance. The preeminent learning event draws a sold-out audience of 650, including Fortune 500 CEOs, hospital executives, college and university presidents, nonprofit leaders, and other intellectually curious people from across the United States and Canada.

The Power of Connection One year, Randy convened half a dozen speakers for a pre-conference meet and greet, including top leadership from Sesame Street, National Science Foundation, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, AARP, National Association of

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Personally Speaking Born in New York City, Antik was raised in Southern California through high school and sought higher learning in Maine (a bachelor’s degree from Colby College) and Massachusetts (an MBA from Harvard University). His 35-year professional career as a turnaround guru for some of America’s wealthiest families—Pritzker, Carlson, Bass—and private equity firms took him to other states, too, including New Hampshire, Texas, Connecticut, Minnesota, and Oregon. A full-fledged Floridian since 2006, he spends time off season in Martha’s Vineyard, a special place with which he has had “a 60-year love affair.”

To unwind, he plays pickleball every morning and dines out three or four times a week with Ronnie, his wife of 25 years. They have five grown children—three from his first marriage, two from hers—and five grandchildren. Ronnie’s daughter, Iliza Schlesinger, whom Randy helped raise, is a nationally known stand-up comedian whose career skyrocketed when she was named the 2008 winner of NBC’s Last Comic Standing. “Her mother and I are incredibly proud,” he says.

Clearly, Randy is also proud of his wife as he tallies her accomplishments: published author; writer, producer, and director of two musicals; party planner extraordinaire. He boasts that the annual costume soiree she stages for 250 guests in their community is considered the “party of the

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Paul Stookey

lection, which comprises more than 150 important works.

Be Curious The philosophy Randy often shares with younger people mirrors his own path: “If you can be curious all your life, that’s a wonderful talent to have. If you can find something you love and are able to do it and if you can meet interesting people and keep them in your life, that’s re-

Randy and Ronnie Antik’s home displays striking works of wood art.

year,” sometimes replete with exotic animals depending on that year’s theme.

“But don’t even think about showing up without a costume,” he cautions. “Ronnie will find one for you and send you home to change.”

ally special.”

While he continues to travel the world and build an evermore impressive network of fascinating people, he still values the day-to-day connections his curiosity manifests. Reflecting on his exchange with the Irish waiter, he says, “It’s important that I have a conversation with someone about things that are of interest to them. My day was made when the young man, whom I had not met before, was nudged to tell a story—and he did. Moments like this make each day a positive.” «

The Art of Persuasion Randy’s other source of pride is his massive array of contemporary wood art that he began collecting in the late 1990s. “It started with my curiosity about the process of how wood turners evolve into wood artists, going from craft to art,” he says.

Living in Dallas at the time, Randy befriended Stanley Marcus, with whom he met for lunch once a month at the legendary Sammy’s IF YOU CAN FIND SOMETHING YOU Bar-B-Q. On one such day, he LOVE AND ARE ABLE TO DO IT ... sought the luxury retail magnate’s THAT’S REALLY SPECIAL.” opinion regarding whether to pursue his interest in collecting wood art. He recalls sitting in the nonagenarian’s office and asking him to look online at a couple of artists who had caught his eye. The old man—who happened to have a bowl on display by one of the early stars in wood art—reached across his desk and took hold of Randy’s hand, saying, “If I was your age, I’d do it.” So, he did. “How could I not when Stanley Marcus says to do this?”

Since then, his curiosity and passion have led him to the homes and studios of some 60 wood artists, as well as juried art shows throughout the U.S., Europe, and the U.K. in search of pieces to add to his col-

Imagine That

The fourteenth annual Imagine Solutions Conference will be held on March 4 at Arthrex headquarters in Naples. Past speakers include the late Emmy Award–winning producer Norman Lear, famous for creating popular 1970s sitcoms All in the Family, Maude, and Sanford and Son, among others, as well as Dr. Doris Taylor, recognized for leading a team of scientists that developed a method for regenerating transplantable organs with stem cells, thus creating a “replaceable heart.”

Among the speakers at this year’s conference is Paul Stookey of the 1960s Grammy Award–winning folk trio Peter, Paul and Mary, who founded the nonprofit organization Music to Life, which celebrates the legacy of music to educate, recruit, and mobilize. (imaginesolutionsconference.com)

“

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EMBRACE GIRLY FLORALS AND FEMININE HUES Photography by Gabor Jurina Shot by Naples Illustrated on location at Renny & Reed, West Palm Beach Carolina Herrera top, jacket, pants, belt; Jimmy Choo heels; Oscar de la Renta necklace, earrings.

Opposite page: Alexander McQueen dress, cuff bracelet, ear cuffs

Full

Bloom

For buying information, turn to page 199.

Fashion editor: Katherine Lande

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Opposite page: Valentino dress For buying information, turn to page 199.

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Opposite page: La Double J jacket, shorts; Carolina Herrera earrings.

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Chanel top, dress, shoes, necklaces, earrings Opposite page: Oscar de la Renta gown, earrings; Jimmy Choo heels.

For buying information, turn to page 199.

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Akris dress; Carolina Herrera earrings.

Opposite page: Gucci coat; Jimmy Choo heels; Dolce & Gabbana handbag; Oscar de la Renta earrings.

For buying information, turn to page 199.

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Angel Guardian

A champion of female empowerment and financial equity spreads her wings in the crowdfunding arena, where she is leveraging technology to assist women on a global scale

BY GAYLENE SALOMONS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK SHIRGHIO

If it wasn’t for her name, Gerry (pronounced Gary) Poirier might never have worked on Wall Street. It was the late ’80s, and females were a rarity in the male-dominated world of finance. When Poirier arrived for her scheduled job interview with Credit Suisse in a skirt, she was told she was in the wrong place. The interviewers assumed they were meeting a male; the man who became her boss later admitted he was looking forward to meeting someone (again assuming she was a male) who had traveled through Southeast Asia—information Poirier highlighted on her résumé.

Born and raised in Washington, D.C., Poirier decided to attend the University of Pennsylvania to study nonWestern history. “I learned so much American history during my school years; I wanted to study something different,” she explains. Poirier also graduated with a concentration in marketing from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

Which is a good time to explain why Southeast Asia was included on

her résumé.

“I’m a curious person; I want to learn,” she relates. “I wanted to experience new cultures that I didn’t know,” adding, “I get bored easily.”

As a child, Poirier often traveled with her family to Europe. “One uncle lived in London, another in Paris,” she relays. When only 13, she formulated a plan to spend three months in Paris, promising to babysit her younger cousins and teach them English while she learned French.

At 16, she decided she wanted to visit every country in Europe. She initiated her plans with so much confidence that her parents did not push back. This was long before cell phones and Google Maps had made their debut. She bought a Eurail Pass and Lonely Planet guide and set out on her European tour.

In her junior year of college, Poirier, who has Scottish roots, studied abroad at the University of Edinburgh. At the end of that experience, faced with four months off before her senior year, she recalls, “I wasn’t ready to come home.”

She told her parents she wanted to

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Gerry Poirier, founder and CEO of AngeLink, is working hard to empower women to reach their highest potential.

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Inset: Gerry toasts husband Bob in their Talis Park home.

9

Opposite page: Gerry in her home office, where she has spent hours creating the world’s first social crowdfunding platform powered by women.

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9 “

spend the summer traveling through Southeast Asia and found an inexpensive way to do so on a cargo plane.

“I bought a student-rate ticket that made seven stops.” This time, however, her parents intervened and insisted her brother, who was studying at Princeton University, accompany her and a girlfriend she had invited along.

The traveling trio’s first stop was in Sri Lanka. The day before they arrived, the country erupted in civil war. Their planned two-day stay turned into two and a half weeks. Poirier remembers enjoying accommodations at a luxury hotel where they were attentively tended by a bored staff and driven around the countryside—never feeling unsafe.

After graduating from college, Poirier’s first job was on the trading floor at Credit Suisse—100 Wall Street—where she worked in a high-risk, high-reward environment for five straight years. By her late 20s, she was at the top of her game and started thinking about what she was going to do next. She told her boss she wanted to work for Credit Suisse in Japan. “I’ve always been a risk-taker,” she admits. He said no. “What if I learn to speak Japanese?” she asked. He reluctantly agreed.

After a yearlong language course, Poirier reminded her boss of his promise. She was soon working among New York, Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Singapore.

It was during this time that Gerry met Bob Poirier at the Harvard Club in New York. She discloses she was interested in finding a partner, but she didn’t think it would be Bob—a divorcé with five children (and a serial entrepreneur). She decided, once again, to take a risk: she said yes. After marrying, they moved to Washington, D.C., to be near Gerry’s parents; together the couple have four boys: Tyler, Morgan, Connor, and Devon. Gerry continued

COURTESY OF GERRY POIRIER

I saw with my own eyes how difficult it is for females. I knew I wanted to help in some way. I’ve always felt driven to leave a positive impact.”

working full-time, employed by global financial services companies, such as Lazard.

In her more than two decades in the financial industry, Gerry was often the only woman in the room. Added to that, whenever she traveled, she witnessed firsthand how disadvantaged women were across all economies and countries.

“I saw with my own eyes how difficult it is for females,” she tells. “I knew I wanted to help in some way. I’ve always felt driven to leave a positive impact.”

First though, there was a move to Naples.

“We call it the Nantucket of Florida,” Gerry remarks. The family often visited her sister, who had a home in Boca Grande, explaining, “We love the elegant island.” At the time, Bob and Gerry owned a large home in Washington,

D.C., as well as a country home. They decided a condo in Florida would make a nice addition to their real estate portfolio.

She and Bob visited various developments in Southwest Florida, including Talis Park, a golf community in North Naples. That night, over what Gerry remembers as “a really good bottle of wine,” the two looked at each other and about purchasing a newly built single-family home on Seneca Drive, said “Why not?”

They then asked their boys (their youngest was only in third grade) if the family should move to Naples full-time. As their boys all enjoyed the sport of golf, Bob and Gerry thought the answer would be a resounding yes. Although not a unanimous vote, the scales tipped in favor of a move, and the family relocated fulltime in 2015.

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COURTESY OF GERRY POIRIER

Mentoring and encouraging females in business is one way Gerry (center) is working to change the inequity in total venture capital invested across all industries.

Moving to paradise was in no way a time to retire or relax for Gerry. Rather, it was her opportunity to bring her longtime vision of helping females to reality. After learning that 70 percent of crowdfunding donors and nearly 80 percent of crowdfunding campaign organizers are women, she chose peer-to-peer lending as her portal to help women come together and support each other.

She set her sights on becoming the Bumble (a popular online dating and networking application based on integrity, kindness, equality, and respect where women make the first move when it comes to relationships) of crowdfunding.

Gerry admits she had no idea how challenging building a collaborative funding platform would be, citing the payment flow as the most difficult part. Through the process, she learned that two of the world’s largest payment companies are headquartered in Florida.

“Who knew?” she says. Combined, ACI Worldwide, in Coral Gables, and FIS Global in Jacksonville, “process $34 trillion in payments in one day,” she relays.

Determined to find solutions, Gerry conse-

quently became acquainted with such companies and became well-versed in fintech—a portmanteau derived of “financial” and “technology,” wherein computer technology is used to support or enable banking or financial services. The Forbes Technology Council has even invited her to contribute articles discussing the topic.

In 2022, AngeLink launched. Today, the company boasts 55,000 active users; it has transcended borders and is available in 100 different currencies. Last year, the company completed $3 million in transactions. Gerry’s goal is to have a presence in every country of the world. In pursuit of this, she has already successfully raised $5.75 million in seed capital, which will close at $10 million. With eight anti-fraud patents pending, AngeLink is on track to become the world’s first AI-driven crowdfunding platform. In the donation space, Gerry already considers AngeLink the safest, most trusted platform. “We review every single campaign using AI tools, such as image and text recognition, and help users write a better story,” she says.

And that’s not all. Gerry rattles off more

statistics sharing that “women-led start-ups are five times more likely to become billiondollar companies compared to male-led businesses,” and “they generate more revenue and achieve more revenue per dollar invested compared to men.” Except, she adds, “Female entrepreneurs receive only 2.3 percent of total venture capital invested across all industries.”

In response to this gender inequity, Gerry envisions AngeLink as the go-to bank to help raise venture capital for female-generated business ideas.

Since relocating to Naples, Gerry has created a caring, empathetic, female-centric community. She has found the talent needed to run a visionary company in only three years—her 20 employees work remotely. She has assembled an impressive all-female board and started the AngeLink Community Foundation, an independent, IRS-registered 501(c)(3) public charity that makes direct impact grants.

When it comes to closing the gap on gender-based economic disparities, this blonde guardian has taken a leading role, helping females soar to great heights. «

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Women-led start-ups are five times more likely to become billion-dollar companies compared to male-led businesses, [and] they generate more revenue and achieve more revenue per dollar invested compared to men.”

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EAT+DRINK BOLD FLAVORS, COOL COCKTAILS, AND LOCAL FAVORITES

IN SEASON

FOOD AND FUN The fifty-fourth annual Everglades Seafood Festival takes over Everglades City from February 2 to 4. The event celebrates the self-proclaimed Stone Crab Capital of the World and so, not surprisingly, is presented by the Florida Stone Crabbers Association with support from the Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Most of the festivities take place outside Everglades City Hall. That’s where you’ll find all manner of local seafood, particularly stone crab claws. Beverages, work from local artisans, entertainment, and carnival rides are all part of the festival, too.

The event supports local fishermen and the communities that keep them in business and ongoing community reconstruction following Hurricane Ian, while creating enhanced opportunities for Everglades City’s youths. (evergladesseafoodfestival.org) –Karen Feldman

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EAT+DRINK PAIRINGS

But First, WINE!

COURTESY OF CATENA ZAPATA

LAURA CATENA DESCRIBES HER RESTAURANT AT BODEGA CATENA ZAPATA, WHERE WINE TAKES CENTER STAGE

BY JANE E. ENOS

Perhaps it’s not surprising that for Laura Catena, a fourth-generation vintner and manager of Catena Zapata in Mendoza, Argentina, wine comes first. In fact, food even takes a backseat to wine at Angélica Cocina Maestra, a restaurant she launched at Catena Zapata, which earned the No. 1 ranking on the World’s Best Vineyards 2023 top 50 list.

“With everything we do, we want to be the best in Argentina and the world,” says Catena. “When our winemaker, Alejandro Vigil, approached me about 15 years ago suggesting we add a restaurant, I thought it would be arrogant of me to aspire to compete with the incredible chefs of Argentina. I told him: ‘We don’t know how to do food; we do wine.’”

A few years following this conversation, the noted wine expert Vigil—alongside his wife— opened what is now one of only seven Michelinstarred restaurants in Argentina: Casa Vigil.

Following this venture’s success, Vigil once again proposed the idea of incorporating a restaurant at Catena Zapata.

Catena, at this point, reconsidered—but with a stipulation.

“I said to him, the only way I’ll do a restaurant is if the food is the wine—if the food is like the pairing,” she relates. “I know we can do wine at the highest level. We need to have extraordinary food of course, but I wanted the wine to be the star. Angélica has a winefirst menu.”

To build Angélica, so named after Catena’s grandmother, a specially designated space was created. The architecture emulates an Italian borgo, paying homage to the Catena family’s Italian ancestry.

The wine-first experience plays upon details, space, and order.

“When you’re seated, it’s all glasses and no plates on the table,” notes Catena. “It’s a tasting menu, and each wine is presented as the course.” To further preclude any upstaging, the food is often presented to the side or back of the wine. And the servers? “They are all trained sommeliers,” says Catena.

Catena Zapata’s restaurant, Angélica, offers a wine-first experience. To preclude upstaging of the showcased wines, food is often presented on the table to the side or back of the glasses.

Expect more delightful, creative departures from strict gastronomic decorum, too. For instance, one of the tasting flights, named Roller Coaster, is atypical. This flight presents wine to guests in “an unconventional order,” according to Catena, “working red to white. This disrupts everything that’s traditional about order, and it totally works.”

For Catena, who often makes appearances at the Naples Winter Wine Festival, wine reigns supreme. “The main rule I follow is to pick a really great wine,” she explains. “Great wine [paired with] great food is ideal, but if you have mediocre food with great wine, you don’t notice the food so much.”

“Don’t compromise on the wine.” (catenazapata.com)

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SIP

Neapolitans who put ice in your white wine, you know who you are. Stand tall. You are the inspiration for a new product.

Winemakers Chris and Jessica Zazo, who divide their time between Naples and their boutique Napa Valley winery, Hailstone Vineyards, observed many ice-plunking white wine drinkers when they came to Naples, so they started investigating.

“Ninety percent said they do it to keep their drink ice cold while the other 10 percent felt judged and denied the ice in their drink altogether,” relates Jessica.

Hence the inspiration for Hailstone Ice, a sparkling white designed to be poured over ice, topped with fruit, and proudly consumed.

No excuses necessary.

While it is a sparkler, it’s “designed to be

poured into a wine glass, not a traditional Champagne flute, over ice with your favorite garnish,” says Chris. He recommends filling the glass about one-third of the way with ice then adding the wine and any garnishes atop.

The Zazos say the wine has a clean baseline, so it readily takes on any flavors added.

They recommend personalizing your glass with your favorite fruits.

“So far we’ve seen strawberries, peaches, watermelon, blueberries, and even passionfruit,” Jessica details. Of course, purists can drink it over ice without anything added.

As for foods, the Zazos say it pairs well with caviar, charcuterie, vegetables, and shellfish.

Hailstone Ice is available in many Naples restaurants and can be ordered from the winery. (hailstonevineyards.com) —K.F.

COURTESY OF HAILSTONE ICE

COLD AS ICE

NI ’s curated dining guide for Greater NAPLES THE LISTINGS The Naples area is packed with an abundance of great eateries, serving up food and drinks to satisfy every palate. Naples Illustrated has rounded up details on can’tmiss places for dining delights.

AMERICAN ALEXANDER’S The tastes of farm-to-table American and European cuisine commingle at this fine dining establishment. 4077 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (alexandersnaples.com) ALICE SWEETWATER’S BAR & GRILLE This local favorite serves a large array of lunch and dinner fare. 1996 Airport Road S., Naples (alicesweetwaters barandgrille.com) BALEEN AT LAPLAYA BEACH & GOLF RESORT Dine amid elegant tropical surroundings indoors or on the tiered terrace to soak up the exquisite beachside views. 9891 Gulf Shore Drive, Naples (laplayaresort.com) THE BEVY Everything old is new again at The Bevy (short for beverage). Try the Blackberry Tom Cat, a riff on the Tom Collins, from the signature cocktail menu.

360 12th Ave. S., Naples (naplesbevy.com)

BISTRO 821 A long-time Old Naples favorite, thanks to a diverse menu that fuses Asian, European, and domestic flavors. 821 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (bistro821.com) BLUEBERRY’S RESTAURANT There’s something for everyone at Blueberry’s, from a hearty skillet to an egg white scramble to pancakes. 3350 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (blueberrys-restaurant.com) BRICKTOP’S Boasting classic American dishes and an outstanding brunch featuring gems like brioche French toast and lobster Benedict. 5555 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (bricktops.com) BROOKS BURGERS Brooks’ three Naples locations are celebrated for gourmet classics and trendy options, such as Korean barbecue, fig jam and, of course, doughnut. 330 Ninth St. S.; 2220 Logan Blvd.

N. Ste. 805; 845 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples (brooksburgers.com) COOPER’S HAWK WINERY Signature dishes paired with Cooper’s Hawk wines in a casual setting. 11905 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (chwinery.com) EJ’S BAYFRONT CAFÉ An extensive breakfast, brunch, and lunch menu served daily in a pet-friendly environment on Naples Bay. 469 Bayfront Place, Naples (ejsbayfrontcafe.com) FUSE BBQ Stop by for Texas-style brisket, Memphisstyle ribs, and Carolina-style pork. 2500 Tamiami Trail N. #114, Naples (fusebbq.com)

GOLDIES RESTAURANT For reliable Americana cuisine and friendly service, look no further than this hidden gem. 5400 Taylor Road, Naples (goldies restaurant.com) THE HANGOUT BY TWO GUYS Brothers Peter and Larry Falisi dish out a relaxing vibe with Italian dishes based on family recipes and “secret ingredients,” along with a mix of tacos, quesadillas, sliders, and vegan entrées. 2360 Pine Ridge Road, Naples (hangoutnaples.com) HAROLD’S PLACE A fun, casual bar and grill that serves classic burgers, seafood, salads, and more in a tropical setting complete with a chickee bar and poolside dining. 2555 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (naplesharoldsplace.com) HOBNOB Elevated comfort food and sophisticated fare in a modern yet warm atmosphere. Beef and fish are brought in fresh daily and filleted on site. 720 Fifth Ave. S. Unit 101, Naples (hobnobnaples.com) KC AMERICAN BISTRO As the name implies, regional American cuisine is on tap. 885 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples (kcamericanbistro.com) LAKE PARK DINER A healthy spin on classic diner fare, with an emphasis on organic meats and produce.

944 Seventh Ave. N., Naples (thelakeparkdiner.com) THE LOCAL Fresh, healthy meals dominate the menu, and its brunch is one of the best in town. 5323 Airport-Pulling Road, Naples (thelocalnaples.com) NAPLESILLUSTRATED.COM | FEBRUARY 2024

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From inset: Bistro 821’s prawns with crispy sushi rice; executive chef Jonathan DeRue.

LOCAL FAVE CELEBRATES 30 YEARS Along Fifth Avenue South, much has changed across three decades, but Bistro 821 remains constant, serving inventive New American and fusion fare as envisioned by chef Jesse Housman, the proprietor, and a few others.

“We’ve still got the miso-sake marinated Chilean sea bass and a lot of other dishes Jesse is famous for,” says Shane O’Dell, his customerturned-business partner. “The menu is almost the best of the best from the last 30 years. It’s driven by what guests like.”

To celebrate the bistro’s thirtieth birthday, there are plans for a celebratory party that includes VIPs, previous employees, and a handful of regular guests. There will also be dinner specials that hark back to the early days popping up throughout the month.

There is indeed much to celebrate, such as surviving economic downturns, various hurricanes, and of course, COVID-19. O’Dell was concerned his favorite restaurant might not survive. He told his wife he might like to buy it if it became available. A few months later, he became Housman’s partner, bringing his business expertise from years in the automotive industry, which complements Housman’s culinary chops.

“I’ve always been the chef in the kitchen,” Housman says. “I had the opportunity to partner up with someone with business acumen.

I’ve learned so much from Shane. He came at a

crucial time, offered inspiration. The true potential for the bistro hadn’t been realized before.”

To lighten Housman’s load, Jonathan DeRue was hired as executive chef. DeRue came with solid experience, including a strong background in beef and wine.

Spending less time cooking, Housman has more time to consider the big picture. Now, he keeps his eye on what’s happening in the kitchen. “I throw a little something into the mix now and then,” he says. His staff is incredibly stable, with most averaging 13 years or more there, and he has recognized the fruits of nurturing them through the years.

“I’m really enjoying watching everybody grow,” he adds. “That’s one of the great pleasures of this business.” (bistro821.com) –K.F.

COURTESY OF BISTRO 821

EAT+DRINK M WATERFRONT GRILLE Contemporary decor, fine cuisine, and views of Venetian Bay from every seat in the dining room. 4300 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples (mwaterfrontgrille.com) MICHELBOB’S CHAMPIONSHIP RIBS & STEAKS Family-run since 1976, Michelbob’s offers a full bar and comprehensive menu of barbecue favorites. 371 Airport-Pulling Road N., Naples (michelbobs.com) MIDNIGHT TAVERN This laid-back gastropub serves American favorites—specialty burgers, handhelds, fries, salads, and appetizers—along with live music three nights a week. 2800 Davis Blvd., Naples (midnighttavernfl.com) OLD NAPLES PUB AND THE VILLAGE PUB Both of these local favorites feature an array of handhelds and finger-friendly foods perfect for the casual setting. 255 13th Ave. S.; 4360 Gulf Shore Blvd., Naples (naplespubs.com) OLD VINES SUPPER CLUB This modern version of a supper club features the New American cuisine of chef Brooke Kravetz. The seasonal menus change weekly. 2795 Davis Blvd., Naples (oldvinesnaples.com) RIDGWAY BAR & GRILL Chef Tony Ridgway continues wowing diners with classic American cuisine. 1300 Third St. S., Naples (ridgwaybarandgrill.com) THE ROOSTER A smorgasbord of savory Southern offerings, including biscuits and gravy to crow about. 600 Goodlette Road N. Ste. 101, Naples (theroosternaples.com) SEASONS 52 A rotating menu of healthy, seasonal dishes and international wines. 8930 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (seasons52.com) SEVENTH SOUTH CRAFT FOOD + DRINK Owner Barry Larkin and chef Jay Schrednitz offer a locally and globally sustainable seafood program, handcut steaks, house-made pastas, and reimagined cocktails, along with a Sunday brunch. 849 Seventh Ave. S., Naples (seventhsouth.com) SOUTH STREET GRILL Inspired by the bars and clubs on the Philadelphia street of the same name, South Street pairs home-style specialties with live music, and craft beers and cocktails. 1410 Pine Ridge Road Ste. 4, Naples (southstreetnaples.com) TAVERN ON THE BAY This popular sports bar boasts huge televisions, great comfort food, and a lovely view of the Gordon River. 489 Bayfront Place, Naples (tavernonthebay.net) THREE60 MARKET In addition to a stellar market, this local favorite boasts a café that serves classic, fresh fare for breakfast and lunch or an early dinner.

2891 Bayview Drive, Naples (three60market.com) TOMMY BAHAMA RESTAURANT & BAR Born in Naples, the Tommy Bahama laid-back lifestyle is full throttle in its original festive eatery and bar at 1220 Third St. S., Naples; and Coconut Point, 23150 Fashion Drive #101, Estero (tommybahama.com) TRUE FOOD KITCHEN The eclectic menu features anti-inflammatory dishes that will make you feel good from the inside out. 5375 Tamiami Trail N. Ste. 15, Naples (truefoodkitchen.com/naples)

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EAT+DRINK GLOBAL GOURMET

CULINARY SABBATICALS INSPIRE LOCAL CHEF

TWISTED SHEEP PIZZA & BREW Artisanal specialty and custom pizzas and inventive hand-helds and small bites, local brews, and “stubborn soda.” 3802 Tamiami Trail E., Naples (twistedsheeppizza.com) THE WAREHOUSE A menu dotted with fresh, local ingredients complements an award-winning cocktail program. 9010 Bellaire Bay Drive, Naples (thewarehousenaples.com) YARD HOUSE With unique and plentiful tap options, Yard House offers an electric atmosphere and array of hearty American entrées. 4251 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (yardhouse.com) Z’S MUSIC KITCHEN Kick back to live country and rhythm and blues with a plate of the chef’s Nashvillestyle hot chicken or cornmeal-encrusted grouper.

12655 Tamiami Trail E., Naples (zsmusickitchen.com)

SEAFOOD AQUA The restaurant’s look is fresh and airy, just right for the seafood-centric menu. 862 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (aquafifth.com) THE BAY HOUSE Overlooking the Cocohatchee River, this eatery features a beautiful dining room plus Southern-inspired seafood. 799 Walkerbilt Road, Naples (bay​house​naples.com) 162

“We come back refreshed,” Bernard says, ready to tackle the next season. The menu typically gets reinvigorated, too. Along the way, he encounters dishes that spark his taste buds and imagination.

For instance, in Bonn, it was a new asparagus preparation.

Another result of his travels is a sandwich he serves called the short rib birria, featuring seven-spiced braised short rib, pepper jack cheese, and flour tortilla, grilled with zesty birria broth and served with beans and rice.

The dinner menu now offers lobster linguine instead of the usual lasagna. This allows him to serve a bed of pasta, extract the whole lobster from the shell, and add a pesto drizzle, some marinara, and red pepper.

“I always love to revamp my menu,” he says, “but I still have to give people what they want.” (alexandersnaples. com) —K.F.

BAYSIDE SEAFOOD GRILL & BAR This Venetian Bay favorite boasts grand water views, prime grilled meats, and seafood specialties. 4270 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples (baysideseafoodgril​land​bar.com) THE BOATHOUSE ON NAPLES BAY Arrive by car or dock your boat at this waterfront seafood restaurant overlooking Naples Bay. 990 Broad Ave. S., Naples (boathouseonnaplesbay.com) CAPTAIN & KREWE SEAFOOD MARKET & RAW BAR Enjoy oysters and other seafood, beer, and wine in a relaxed atmosphere. 629 Eighth St. S., Naples (cknaples.com) THE CATCH OF THE PELICAN Fine steaks, local seafood, and hand-picked produce in a relaxed, sophisticated setting overlooking the pool at Naples Grande.

475 Seagate Drive, Naples (naplesgrande.com) THE CLAW BAR This eatery offers a sophisticated blend of Southern traditions and high-quality ingredients. 221 Ninth St. S., Naples (theclawbar.com) THE DOCK AT CRAYTON COVE An open-air restaurant serving fresh catches prepared with Caribbean and Latin influences. 845 12th Ave. S., Naples (dockcrayton​cove.com) FISH RESTAURANT Fabulous views of Venetian Bay complement the outstanding seafood. 4360 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples (fishrestaurantnaples.com)

Alexander Bernard (left) serves New American and European-inspired cuisine at Alexander’s Garden Restaurant.

COURTESY OF ALEXANDER’S GARDEN RESTAURANT

It’s been more than 29 years since Alexander Bernard opened his stylish restaurant, Alexander’s Garden Restaurant, featuring New American and Europeaninspired cuisine. Bernard will soon celebrate his thirtieth year in October.

To say things have changed would be an understatement. For one, he has enlarged his 69-seat establishment to 150 seats by adding the garden patio.

“We used to serve only inside, and we were open all summer,” Bernard recalls. “I had a young wife and a new baby.

I’d send the cooks home at night just to save money and get through.”

That might have been necessary in the early days before he had that splendid patio with its twinkling lights and lush landscaping and before he amassed a following to fill it.

Now, he closes in the summer for a much-needed sabbatical. He and his wife, Monika, travel to California and wherever else the spirit moves them. This year it was Germany and—to celebrate their thirtieth wedding anniversary—France.

GROUPER & CHIPS The grouper is spectacular, as are the crab cakes, fish tacos, and bouillabaisse. 338 Ninth St. N., Naples (grouperandchipsnaples.com) HOGFISH HARRY’S Showcasing the Gulf Coast’s bounty, Hogfish Harry’s serves up signatures such as monkfish bucco and, of course, grilled hogfish. 600 Neapolitan Way, Naples (hogfishharrys.com) LA PESCHERIA A creative, stellar eatery that honors the culture of Italian fish markets. 474 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (lapescherianaples.com) MR. BIG FISH This family-friendly eatery specializes in delicious chowders and locally caught seafood dishes. 754 Neapolitan Way, Naples (mrbigfish.com) OCEAN PRIME Enjoy exceptional hospitality, a delectable seafood and steak menu, luxe cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere. 699 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (ocean-prime.com) PINCHERS CRAB SHACK Pinchers serves fresh, local seafood in a casual, family-friendly setting. 1200 Fifth Ave. S., Naples; 591 S. Collier Blvd., Marco Island; 28580 Bonita Crossing Blvd., Bonita Springs (pinchersusa.com) RIVERWALK AT TIN CITY The menu brims with innovative interpretations of salads, sandwiches, pastas, and steaks, as well as seafood entrées. 1200 Fifth Ave. S. Ste. 45, Naples (riverwalktincity.com)

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EAT+DRINK SAILS This bona fide “pescatarian’s haven” features exquisitely fresh seafood prepared to perfection. 301 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (sailsrestaurants.com) SEA SALT Chef Fabrizio Aielli is a master at marrying organic local produce, wild-caught fish, naturally raised meat, and poultry with modern cooking techniques.

1186 Third St. S., Naples (seasaltnaples.com) TRULUCK’S SEAFOOD, STEAK & CRAB HOUSE Truluck’s owns local fisheries, so the catch is always fresh in this fine-dining restaurant. 698 Fourth Ave. S., Naples (trulucks.com) USS NEMO UNDERSEA CUISINE & ADVENTURES Everything is a cut above, but the signature misobroiled sea bass is a must. 3745 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (ussnemorestaurant.com)

Namba’s Hakata Classic Ramen

THE CAPITAL GRILLE Fine dining with an array of dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list. 9005 Mercato Drive, Naples (thecapital grille.com) CHOPS CITY GRILL A modern take on the traditional, with prime aged steaks, local seafood, and more than 100 whiskey selections. 837 Fifth Ave. S., Naples; 8200 Health Center Blvd. Ste. 100, Bonita Springs (chopscitygrill.com) THE CONTINENTAL This D’Amico restaurant is a stylish steak house and gastropub. 1205 Third St. S., Naples (damicoscontinental.com) DORONA Local culinary superstars Fabrizio and Ingrid Aielli have excelled again with this modern Italian steak house. 2110 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (doronanaples.com) THE GRILL Luxurious dining in The Ritz-Carlton, Naples features rich decor, aged prime beef, chops, and fresh seafood. 280 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples (ritzcarlton.com/naples) JIMMY P’S CHARRED Known for its Wagyu beef, the popular butcher shop’s steaks and other fine foods are served in the restaurant next door. 1833 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (jimmypscharred.com) RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE Sophisticated decor, prime meats, and fine seafood make for a special night out. 23151 Village Shops Way, Bonita Springs (ruthschris.com) SHULA’S STEAK HOUSE In the winning tradition of late NFL coaching icon Don Shula, the “Shula Cut” is one of the best steaks in town. 5111 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (shulasnaples.com)

FRENCH BISTRO LA BAGUETTE This French bistro serves classic combinations like coq au vin and chateaubriand and offers cooking classes for various group sizes.

3560 Tamiami Trail E., Naples (bistrolabaguette.com) BLEU PROVENCE Authentic dishes from the South of France are paired with wines from the vast, awardwinning selection. 1234 Eighth St. S., Naples (bleu​ provencenaples.com)

VANESSA ROGERS

STEAK

CHEZ BOËT FRENCH HOME COOKING Lisa and Philippe Boët serve up delicious French classics in a warm, homey atmosphere. 755 12th Ave. S., Naples (chezboetnaples.com) CÔTE D’AZUR Intimate bistro in the style of Provence serves standouts like Maine lobster roasted in a clay pot. 11224 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (cotedazur restaurant.com) THE FRENCH BRASSERIE RUSTIQUE Rustic French cuisine and lighter fare with desserts prepared by an in-house pastry chef. 365 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (thefrenchnaples.com) TARTINE & TARTELETTE Authentic, homemade French cuisine with wine pairings as sweet as the restaurant’s name. 11121 Health Park Blvd., Naples (tartinetartelette.com)

MEXICAN FELIPE’S MEXICAN TAQUERIA Casual, family-friendly eatery serving fresh classics plus hand-crafted cocktails. 4255 Tamiami Trail N.; 2220 Logan Blvd.

N. Ste. 810, Naples (felipestaqueria.com) ROCCO’S TACOS AND TEQUILA BAR Every day is Cinco de Mayo at this high-energy eatery. The sign-

ture tacos are a hit, along with the savory guacamole, made fresh tableside. 9123 Strada Place Ste. 7135, Naples (roccostacos.com) TACOS & TEQUILA CANTINA The many varieties of tacos are made with fresh, local products and handmade tortillas. 4834 Davis Blvd.; 8971 Tamiami Trail N., Naples; 10952 Eagle Village Drive, Fort Myers (tacosandtequilanaples.com) TAQUERIA SAN JULIAN This neighborhood destination serves up tacos with familiar fillings, though tripe and tongue are available for the adventurous.

3575 Bayshore Drive, Naples (taqueriasanjulian. restaurantwebexpert.com) TURCO TACO Clean eating with a Mexican twist, complete with hormone- and antibiotic-free meats, handmade and gluten-free tortillas, and numerous organic salads. 410 Ninth St. N.; 1514 Immokalee Road #116, Naples (theturcotaco.com)

ITALIAN ALBERTO’S ON FIFTH Chef Alberto Varetto cooks fine dishes in his elegant restaurant. 868 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (albertosonfifth.com) ANGELINA’S RISTORANTE A place for a special

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night out, with elegant cuisine and a 4,000-bottle wine tower. 24041 Tamiami Trail S., Bonita Springs (angelinasofbonitasprings.com) BARBATELLA Pizzas and pastas are delish, but don’t overlook offerings like the grilled salmon. Save room for the signature Nutella pizza. 1290 Third St. S., Naples (barbatellanaples.com) BAR TULIA This late-night brother of Osteria Tulia serves outstanding pizzas and a variety of irresistible small bites, among other delicacies. 462 Fifth Ave. S.; 9118 Strada Place Ste. 8150, Naples (bartulia.com) BELLINI The Bellini family treats guests to cuisine inspired by matriarch “Nonna” Maria. 2331 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (bellininaples.com) BRIO ITALIAN GRILLE The location in Waterside Shops makes this a popular place for pre- and post-shopping meals. 5505 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (brioitalian.com) CAMPIELLO RISTORANTE & BAR This mainstay on Third Street South is a perennial gathering place for great food and people-watching. 1177 Third St. S., Naples (campiellonaples.com) CASA NERI From the owners of Molto Trattoria comes its cutting-edge cousin, featuring homemade pastas, extensive charcuterie boards, and chef-crafted fare. 382 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (casanerinaples.com) DEROMO’S GOURMET MARKET & RESTAURANT Dine on home-style dishes, then shop for gourmet items to take home. The Promenade, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs (deromos.com) GRAPPINO This latest venture from Ingrid and Fabrizio Aielli celebrates Fabrizio’s Venetian roots and houses one of the country’s most comprehensive grappa bars. 90 Ninth St. N., Naples (grappinonaples.com) LA TRATTORIA Old-world charm abounds at this Neapolitan-style pizzeria, where pie options are divided between rosse (red) and blanche (white). 878 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (latrattorianaples.com) MINO This casual eatery specializes in pizza and trattoria dishes, including freshly made pastas and appetizers like the ever-popular arancini. 1100 Sixth Ave. S., Naples (minofl.com) MOLTO TRATTORIA The homemade pasta, sauces, pizza Napoletana, and home-style cuisine are all top-notch. 368 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (moltonaples.com) OSTERIA TULIA Chef Vincenzo Betulia’s authentically rustic venue and “peasant” cuisine are delizioso. 466 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (osteriatulia.com) PARMESAN PETE’S Chef and owner Peter Della Rocca creates meals that taste like a “big bite of Brooklyn.”

7935 Airport-Pulling Road, Naples (parmesanpetes.com) PAZZO! CUCINA ITALIANA The “friendly neighborhood” restaurant has been serving dishes using made-fromscratch sauces, pastas, and desserts for more than 20 years. 853 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (pazzoitaliancafe.com) ROMA ITALIAN BISTRO Pizza and Italian specialities made with ingredients imported from Italy and fresh organic produce. 655 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (romaitalianpizzeria.com) VERGINA Italian and Mediterranean dishes with a modern flair. Vergina is also a popular spot for gathering with friends and listening to live music. 700 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (verginarestaurant.com)

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EAT+DRINK ASIAN 21 SPICES BY CHEF ASIF Chef Asif R. Syed offers contemporary Indian cuisine, diverse flavors, and innovative culinary techniques created with his special collection of spices. 4270 Tamiami Trail E. #21, Naples (21spicesdining.com) AZN AZIAN CUIZINE PanAsian cuisine and an expansive sushi rolls menu, including specialties like Surf & Turf with blue crab, tuna, beef filet carpaccio, and cucumber. 9118 Strada Place, Naples (aznrestaurant.com) FUJIYAMA STEAK AND SEAFOOD HOUSE Enjoy steaks and seafood prepared with Japanese flair at Fujiyama’s hibachi table. 2555 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (naplesfujiyama.com) I LOVE CURRY Mumbai native “Chef Di” shares his professional skill and passion for traditional, authentic Indian cuisine through a popular food truck, restaurant, and catering operation. 2740 Bayshore Drive Unit #11, Naples (ilovecurry124.com) LE INDYA Having grown up on India’s southern coast, chef Suman Chaniyil creates authentic classics rich with flavor and finesse. 975 Pine Ridge Road, Naples (leindya.com)

NAMBA Named for a district of Osaka, Namba specializes in aburi sushi, a style of nigiri where the fish is partially grilled on top. 8847 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (nambanaples.com) PJK NEIGHBORHOOD CHINESE RESTAURANT Naples residents and restaurateurs Paul Fleming and Jody Goodenough-Fleming serve a coastal Chinese menu with locally sourced seafood, plus dim sum and craft cocktails. 835 Fourth Ave. S., Naples (pjkchinese.com) SUSHI ONE Freshness is paramount at Sushi One and each order is painstakingly prepared by hand. 1410 Pine Ridge Road, Naples (sushionenaples.com) SUSHI-THAI Presenting traditional dishes from Japan, as well as sushi and Thai classics. 869 103rd Ave. N.; 7935 Airport-Pulling Road N.; 7211 Vanderbilt Beach Road Ste. 1; 898 Fifth Ave. S., Naples; 25101 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs (sushithaitoo.com and sushithaidowntown.com) VEGAN KITCHEN The wide-ranging Asian menu includes influences from China, Thailand, and Vietnam, with many gluten-free options. 794 Neapolitan Way, Naples (vegan-kitchen.us) ZEN ASIAN BBQ A rustic Japanese pub serving fantastic sushi, Korean barbecue, ramen, and more. 10823 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (eatatzen.com)

GLOBAL ARIO Designed for the “global nomad,” the menu focuses on dry-aged meats, local seafood, and salts and spices from around the world. 400 S. Collier Blvd., Marco Island (marriott.com) BHA! BHA! PERSIAN BISTRO Michael Mir’s popular restaurant serves up savory lamb dishes and a wide choice of colorful and delicious Persian specialties. 865 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (bhabhabistro.com) BODEGA OLÉ Tapas, paella, and other flavors of Spain are showcased along with live music at this elegant restaurant. 965 Fourth Ave. N., Naples (bodegaolenaples.com) THE BOHEMIAN Global influences, a focus on technique and quality, and a vibrant decor underpin this chef-driven restaurant featuring many sharable selections. 27975 Old 41 Road Ste. 104, Bonita Springs (thebohemianbonita.com) C LEVEL BISTRO & WINE BAR A trendy venue that offers a menu of international dishes with American and French influences. 4450 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs (c-levelbar.com) CELEBRATION PARK NAPLES This waterfront bar and food truck park has something for everyone,

Crazy Pantz

Crazy Pantz is a fundraising event benefiting Pace Center for Girls, Collier at Immokalee.

Guests will enjoy an evening filled with crazy fun as they bid on the Crazy Pantz of the distinguished men of SWFL.

Wednesday, April 17, 2024 • 6PM – 9PM The Players Club & Spa, 8060 Grand Lely Dr, Naples, FL

Ticket and event info:

Distinguished sponsors:

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from Maine lobster and Greek gyros, to Asian fusion and Southern barbecue. 2880 Becca Ave., Naples (celebrationparknaples.com/food-trucks) COAST Enjoy a candlelit dinner indoors or watch the sun set over the Gulf on the terrace as you savor the globally influenced cuisine. 1901 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples (edgewaternaples.com) DEL MAR This Fifth Avenue South fave offers seafood, family-style shareables, Turkish flatbreads, and wood-fired entrées, infused with the flavors of the Mediterranean coast. 494 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (delmarnaplesrestaurant.com) FERNANDEZ THE BULL CUBAN CAFÉ Two locations serve traditional Cuban cuisine with a few twists.

1201 Piper Blvd.; 3375 Pine Ridge Road, Naples (fernandezthebull.com) FUSE GASTROBAR Chef-owner Greg Scarlatos uses flavors and ingredients from around the world to create a diverse menu. 2500 Tamiami Trail N. #115, Naples (fusegastrobar.com) GIUSEPPE AND THE LION The spot long known as Noodles has changed hands and names, but it still serves up Italian food, some sushi, and live shows.

1585 Pine Ridge Road, Naples (giuseppeandlion.com) HYDE N CHIC At this fine-dining establishment, chef Andy Hyde merges his Ghana roots with South-

west Florida’s agricultural and seafood bounty. 923 Creech Road, Naples (hydenchicrestaurant.com) JANE’S CAFÉ ON THIRD The owners of this popular downtown spot offer a world of breakfast and lunch choices. 1209 Third St. S., Naples (janes gardencafe.com) LAMORAGA Spanish cuisine with an international twist is served with a wide selection of fine wines. 3936 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (lamoragarestaurant.com) LE COLONIAL Discover the French-tinged flavors of Vietnam at this chic outpost that marries Parisian sultriness with tropical modernity. 445 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (naples.lecolonial.com) LIMA RESTAURANT & PISCO BAR This East Naples restaurant captures the essence of the Peruvian capital’s vibrant cuisine. 5047 Tamiami Trail E., Naples (lima-restaurant.com) THE MED Traditional and contemporary Mediterranean cuisine meet at The Med, an indoor/outdoor artisan eatery in the Bayshore Arts District. Pizza, rotisserie chicken, and lots of plates to share. 3929 Bayshore Drive, Naples (themednaples.com) MEDITERRANO This restaurant serves up authentic dishes like Mediterranean sea bass with figs, apricots, and raisins. 336 Thirteenth Ave. S., Naples (mediterrano-naples.com)

NOSH ON NAPLES BAY Small plates, or noshes, are the specialty at this fine-dining establishment, the latest venture from its award-winning chef, Todd Johnson. 1490 Fifth Ave. S. Ste. 101, Naples (noshon naplesbay.com) PETAR’S RESTAURANT Chef Petar’s internationally inspired fare is superbly fresh. 3300 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs (petarsrestaurant.com) SIMIT FRESH MEDITERRANEAN From the hummus to the simit, falafel, and baklava, Simit offers traditional Middle Eastern standards in a fast-casual setting.

1230 Airport-Pulling Road, Naples (simitfresh.com) A TABLE APART Chef Jarrod Davis carries on the sustainable practices and high standards for his Hawaiian fusion cuisine established by founder Jeff Acol. 4295 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs (atableapart.com) VERANDA E The signature restaurant at Escalante hotel offers an eclectic fusion of Asian and Frenchinfluenced flavors in a romantic tropical setting. 290 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (hotelescalante.com) THE VINE ROOM This new speakeasy-inspired venue with 1920s decor calls itself an “elevated cocktail lounge” but it also serves wine and small plates from around the globe. 465 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (vineroom.com)

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EAT+DRINK MINDFUL MIXOLOGIST

Raspberry Revelry

O

L EL VI CO A C FRANCES

THE SHORTEST MONTH OF THE YEAR OFFERS MANY REASONS TO CHEERS

BY JULES ARON

In the spirit of love and kindness, February’s cocktail spotlights the sweet raspberry. With strong ties to mythology and history, red berries are thought to symbolize life and the energy of blood. Raspberries, in particular, have long represented kindness and softness through their delicate drupelets, juicy pulp, and crimson color.

Ancient Romans and Greeks enjoyed raspberries, and the fourth-century Roman agriculturist Palladius regarded them as having one of the highest mineral and antioxidant densities of any fresh fruit. Native peoples of the Americas recognized raspberry’s powerful medicinal and protective properties as well and utilized the leaves in natural medicines and teas, especially surrounding fertility and women’s health. In astrology, raspberries are considered a feminine plant, making it the perfect ingredient for an elixir of love.

The Crimson Crush is a tangy bevvy loaded with fresh citrus, raspberries, tequila, and a splash of a bitter aperitif. This take on a traditional sour will allow you to express your love for margaritas too, just in time for National Margarita Day February 22.

X Crimson Crush Ingredients 5-7 raspberries, plus more for garnish 1/ 2 oz. fresh-squeezed lime juice 1/ 2 oz. fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice 1/ 2 oz. agave syrup 2 oz. blanco tequila 1/ 2 oz. Campari or Aperol

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Add the raspberries, lime juice, grapefruit juice, and agave syrup to a shaker and muddle the berries gently. Fill the cocktail shaker with ice, then add the tequila and Campari or Aperol. Shake well and strain into a glass with fresh ice. Garnish with fresh raspberries.

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Disruption Disruption in an Age of Technology & Science Jeff Cole

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8:30 AM to 5:15 PM Arthrex One Conference Center

Limited attendance to ensure comfortable seating and personal ability to access speakers. $700 per person – 75% tax deductible THANK YOU TO OUR SUPPORTING SPONSORS

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BALANCE

YOUR BEST SELF: FITNESS, NUTRITION, MINDFULNESS, WELL-BEING

TREATMENTS

FEELING THE HEAT

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INFRARED SAUNAS

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Get the health and relaxation benefits of a sauna without the steam using a far-infrared sauna. These use infrared lights to warm your body, resulting in lower temperatures than traditional saunas but having similar effects on your health. According to Jamie Kliewe, a board-certified holistic health practitioner and founder of Omni Balanced Life Center in Naples, the health benefits may include improved cardiovascular health, lowered blood pressure, reduced pain, and a strengthened immune system.

Kliewe notes infrared saunas can benefit most people but particularly recommends them for athletes, people healing from injuries, and individuals with medical conditions like cardiovascular disease. She recommends 30-minute sessions to start seeing improvements in your health and notes that you can pair infrared exposure with other therapies like acupuncture or massage to see additional benefits. Don’t feel like taking a trip to the spa every time you want to use the sauna? Another benefit of these saunas is the availability of in-house units, helping you relax without leaving your home. (omninaples.com) –Erika Klein

NAPLESILLUSTRATED.COM | FEBRUARY 2024

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BALANCE STRATEGIES

MANAGING WORK AND LIFE IN THE NEW YEAR With the post-pandemic “new normal” of remote or hybrid employment, a return to business trips, and increased workplace connectivity, you may struggle with striking an ideal work-life balance. Jen Gross, a board-certified health and performance coach with Gain in Naples, notes that chronic stress from work can carry into your home life, while increased time in the office or on the road may mean once again missing family time and events.

And when you’re caught in the resulting stress cycle, “you’re just not going to be able to find that adequate balance,” she says.

To help improve your work-life balance this year, consider the following tips from Gross. (gainitallinlife.com) –E.K.

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NUTRITION

BEARING FRUIT Fruit is good for you, so dried fruit is too— right? It depends.

Jennifer Khosla, a certified holistic nutritionist and wellness expert based in Naples, points out that dried fruit is a great source of fiber and antioxidants.

It can also be a good snack, especially when you’re traveling. On the other hand, dried fruit can be high in sugar (including added sugar) and contain preservatives. The high sugar content, Khosla notes, “turns what would be a healthy snack into a not-so-healthy treat.”

When buying dried fruit, Khosla recommends reading the label carefully. Look for products that are fruit only, with no additives. “When possible, make your own,” she advises. You can easily dry fruit at home in a low-temperature oven or a dehydrator.

Make a variety of options over the weekend, Khosla suggests, to add to homemade trail mix for a healthy weekday snack. (leanandgreenbody.com) –E.K.

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FOCUS ON YOUR MENTAL HEALTH AT WORK. Gross recommends taking a five-minute work break every 30 minutes, whether you go outside briefly or walk around the office.

To reduce stress, she also suggests deep breathing or meditation, which you can do during breaks or at your desk when you’re feeling overwhelmed. “We all have the same number of hours in every day; we are all super busy,” Gross notes. “But it’s pretty simple to take that break in between meetings, even if it’s for a minute or two minutes, and just stand up and breathe deeply.” Finally, she recommends improving your office environment with a standing workstation, a treadmill desk, or a pedaling machine by your feet.

SET BOUNDARIES. If you habitually stay late at the office or aim to empty your inbox before signing off for the evening, you might be sacrificing time with your family. To counter these types of negative habits, Gross recommends identifying your true availability and gradually adjusting your ingrained habits to match it. This change may also apply to traveling. If your normal scheduled flight arrives past your kids’ bedtime, for example, she recommends strategies like booking a slightly earlier flight so you can tuck your kids into bed.

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LEAVE YOUR STRESS AT THE OFFICE. Before heading home, Gross advises listening to upbeat music or taking in calming scents to help return to a happier state of mind and to separate your work stress from your home life. “If I’m leaving the office upset and I’m carrying that over into my home, I need to have a great way to anchor that new environment for myself,” she explains.

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1/2/24 11:20 AM

THE BEST CHOICE FOR EXCEPTIONAL HAIR DESIGN and spa MBS is the manifestation of transformation brought to life by the lovely and highly talented Sandra Cespedes and her team. Her team has a passion for creating beauty everyday in her newly renovated luxury hair salon and spa located in the heart of downtown Naples, Florida. We are now offering spa services with the most talented professionals in this industry. Using the latest techniques and the highest quality of services and products. This luxury hair salon and spa is the best Southwest Florida has to offer.

Sandra R, Valentina, Gabby, Ana, Jackie, Sandra C, Marta, Onelia, Yanely

Founder SANDRA CESPEDES, started her beauty hair design career over 30 years ago in New York City – providing luscious hair, and beauty to top clientele. She is a color specialist serving a large number of high level clients in Naples, FL. She is a master in balayage, hair color, keratin treatments, hair care, non surgical hair replacement and more. Whether you have a corporate event, a wedding, or a dinner date, you will get the best hair results in Naples.

239-200-2123 | 239-304-9433 Tuesday-Friday 10am - 5pm | By appointment on Monday and Saturday 350 5th Ave South, Suite 203 | Naples FL 34102 MBS.BYSANDRAC W W W. M B S H A I R D E S I G N . C O M

WE ACCEPT WALK-IN’S MONDAY-FRIDAY AND BY APPOINTMENT SATURDAY MBS Beauty Studio & Spa_NPI0124.indd 1

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PRIORITIZING YOUR CARE AND COMFORT

BALANCE

Prenatal Care | Lactation Consultation Newborn Care | Pediatric Care

Dr. Michel Saaloukeh MD, FAAP, IBCLC

BONITA PALMS PROFESSIONAL CENTER 9400 Bonita Beach Road Suite #204 Bonita Springs, FL 34135

(239) 422-6020 cpnclinic.com Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm

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SUPPORT

THE ROAD TO INDEPENDENCE Visual impairment and blindness can make many daily activities—from reading mail and watching television to climbing stairs—challenging. The nonprofit organization Lighthouse of Collier was founded in 2009 to foster independence and enhance quality of life among people with compromised vision.

“The mission at the Lighthouse is to enable individuals to do almost all of those things that sighted people can do,” notes the organization’s CEO Scott Flagel.

Lighthouse of Collier offers free programs for blind and visually impaired people of all ages, focusing on everything from mobility and social skills to job readiness and independent living. Recreation and leisure programs help individuals explore new hobbies like hiking, crafts, and yoga, while the music program provides musical instruction, including reading braille music scores. The organization’s support groups also connect visually impaired individuals and caregivers with others in similar situations.

Since its founding, Lighthouse of Collier has served more than 3,000 clients in the community, helping over 90 percent increase independence. (lighthouseof collier.org) –E.K. COURTESY OF LIGHTHOUSE OF COLLIER

Dr. Michel Saaloukeh, MD, FAAP, IBCLC. is board certified in Pediatrics, Neonatology and lactation. Trained at University of Pittsburgh Medical Centre UPMC, has been practicing for over 15 years in the field of Pediatrics and Neonatology. Dr. Saaloukeh is the medical director of a general pediatrics practice, Comprehensive Pediatric and Neonatal Clinic in Southwest Florida. He is IBCLC certified and is committed to providing breast feeding support to mothers and infants after discharge home from the hospital. With a focus on infants who graduate from the NICU, and their special needs, he is dedicated in providing support following discharge home.

Lighthouse of Collier assists blind and visually impaired people of all ages.

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WARM-UP

CRUSHING THE FEAR FACTOR If a sports injury has you concerned about resuming activity, you’re not alone. “Fear of returning to play is a rational response to injury, actually a protective factor,” notes Kathy A. Feinstein, a licensed mental health counselor and certified mental performance consultant in Naples. “It is not a sign of weakness,” she notes.

She recommends working toward reentering your sport by first acknowledging the fear and discussing your return with your medical team. “Hearing you are ready (sometimes repeatedly) can build confidence,” explains Feinstein.

Focusing on positive self-talk, setting and achieving incremental goals, and celebrating your achievements also promote positivity, she adds. Visualization can help, too. “Visualizing the return to play or activity with fear and then working through the fear successfully in the visualization is another effective strategy,” Feinstein says. If fear is preventing you from returning to your sport even after you’ve been cleared by your doctor, she suggests seeking professional support.

“I encourage athletes to be kind to themselves when they feel fearful and offer the same positive support to themselves that they might offer a loved one or teammate,” she notes. (kafcounselingandsportperformance.com) —E.K.

Fear of resuming activity after a sports injury is not uncommon.

Promotion and Events

THEATREZONE In 1956, an extraordinary twist of fate brought Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Elvis Presley together for one of the greatest jam sessions ever. Million Dollar Quartet brings the night to life with performances by world-class actors and musicians at Naples’ TheatreZone from February 8 to 18. Book evenings or matinees at theatre.zone.

13275 Livingston Road | Naples 888-966-3352 | theatre.zone

NAPLESILLUSTRATED.COM | FEBRUARY 2024

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BALANCE TRENDING

SHOW of Hands

ADJUST YOUR BEAUTY ROUTINE TO BE MORE HANDS ON WITH THESE POSH PRACTICES AND UNIQUE TECHNIQUES

PROCEDURE PLAYS When products aren’t getting the job done, there are nonsurgical procedures offered by med spas like Dermatology Specialists of Naples. Dermal fillers, such as Radiesse, are noninvasive and do not require any significant recovery time.

Radiesse is made of calcium hydroxylapatite microspheres that create a lattice framework under the skin where collagen develops, resulting in a more youthful appearance. Radiesse is a quick (typically 30 minute) in-office procedure, with results that can last for up to a year.

To address hyperpigmentation, sunspots, and age spots, patients can explore other nonsurgical options like Moxi, a fractionated laser designed to produce evenly toned skin. (cstrohmeyer.com)

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BY LIZA GRANT SMITH

SLUGGING Hand slugging has been making the rounds on TikTok, and while versions of the hydrating technique vary in terms of products used and recommended duration, the basics (and its benefits) are the same. Essentially, slugging involves adding a layer of Vaseline or moisturizer to your hands and wrapping or covering them with gloves for several hours or even overnight. The moisturizer creates a barrier that helps restore skin’s natural balance. It can also soothe irritated or inflamed skin and help improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Ready to try it yourself? Pair the Soft Services Theraplush Overnight Repair Treatment ($62) with a set of moisturizing gloves ($22) from Malcolm’s Miracle. (softservices.co, malcolmsmiracle.com)

NAILED IT As with most other beauty sectors, nails are not immune to trends, particularly when it comes to polish colors and manicure designs. While blueberry milk nails were last summer’s coveted craze, the popularity crown has now been bestowed upon a new beverageinspired look. Apropos for winter, hot chocolate nails are having their day thanks to such trendsetters as Hailey Bieber and Kim Kardashian.

Join in on the trend by asking your manicurist for a dark brown polish that mimics the popular libation. Or, select an array of hues from mocha to dark chocolate and color each nail a different shade to evoke the paint chip nail trend.

ROUTINE MAINTENANCE Extend your daily skin care routine to include your hands. Many leading companies are leaning into the hand care trend with product lines devoted to palms, digits, cuticles, and the like. Paume, for example, specializes in dedicated skin care for the hands, complete with clean formulas and a Plastic Neutral Certification, meaning that every one of its products carries a net-zero plastic footprint. Get started with the Paume Age Defying Trio ($94), which comes with the Probiotic Hand Balm, Renewing Hand Serum, and All-in-One Cuticle and Nail Cream. (mypaume.com) 176

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1250 Pine Ridge Rd, Suite 101A Naples, Florida 34108 239-261-9990 | drbnaples.com

A specialist in internal medicine for over 20 years, Dr. Brzezinski helps patients take ownership of their health through education and healthy lifestyle.

Restore your Feminine Confidence Dr. Brzezinski performs diVa™, a groundbreaking laser procedure designed to address a woman’s most intimate challenges such as vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, and bladder leakage.

Activate your Orgasm The O-Shot® is a minimally invasive vaginal rejuvenating treatment for women who are experiencing low libido, difficulty achieving orgasm, vaginal dryness, painful intercourse or urinary incontinence.

Age Healthier, Live Happier Hormone Pellet Therapy helps to treat age-related problems by increasing energy, muscle strength, mental clarity, and libido. Treats low testosterone in men and women.

Peptide Treatments enhance weight loss, boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, slow the effects of aging, alleviate digestive issues, and improve sexual health.

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BALANCE

Fall/Winter In-Season Produce

LIVING WITH IVEY

HOW EATING IN SEASON CAN PROVIDE YOU WITH THE ADEQUATE VITAMINS AND MINERALS TO THRIVE

BY IVEY LEIDY PHOTOGRAPHY BY KENT ANDERSON

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PRODUCE AT ITS PEAK

As you peruse the produce section at your local market, you’ll notice that you can find pretty much anything you’re looking for. But you’ve probably never asked yourself how that fruit or vegetable got from the ground to the grocers.

That path isn’t quite as direct as you may think.

Consider an apple.

In the United States, apples are only harvested between late August and early November. That means if you’re eating an apple from the grocery store in the spring or summer, it was picked as many as 10 months earlier.

These apples are stored in low-oxygen refrigeration for months to keep them from ripening, thereby depleting their nutrients.

While it’s convenient to be able to purchase

whatever fruit or vegetable you want whenever you want, we thrive when eating seasonally from our direct environment.

For example, produce that’s ready for harvest in the fall and winter (think citrus and squash) is high in vitamins C and A to boost our immunity and energy levels as we enter the colder season, when we are more prone to colds and viruses. In the spring and summer, the in-season fruits and vegetables like cucumber and watermelon have a higher water content to keep us hydrated as temperatures rise. Spring and summer fruits and veggies are also higher in beta-carotene, which helps to protect against sun damage. Talk about letting food be thy medicine.

Apples Asparagus Eggplant Citrus Lettuce Beets Bell peppers Broccoli Brussels sprouts Butternut squash Carrots Cauliflower Kale Papaya Sweet potatoes Swiss chard

Year-Round in Florida Mushrooms

But the benefits don’t stop there. Because inseason produce is picked at its peak and doesn’t require weeks or months in transit or refrigeration, it is more nutrient-dense, more flavorful, and costs less. Read on to learn what’s in season when.

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ROASTED CARROTS AND BUTTERNUT SQUASH OVER SAUTÉED KALE INGREDIENTS 1 cup carrots, sliced

Spring/ Summer In-Season Produce Avocado Blueberries Celery Cucumber Guava Mango Radish Tomato Watermelon

1 cup butternut squash, diced 3 tbsp. olive oil (divided) 2 cups kale, chopped 1 large shallot, thinly sliced 1 garlic clove, minced Juice of 1/2 a lemon Salt and pepper to taste Fresh parsley to garnish

»

Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Toss carrots and squash with 2 tbsp. olive oil, then arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through the cook time.

Meanwhile, add the remaining 1 tbsp. olive oil to a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the kale, shallot, and garlic until the kale is wilted and the shallot is caramelized (about 5 to 7 minutes). Finish the kale with lemon juice and toss in pan to combine.

Arrange sautéed kale on a large platter. Top with roasted carrots and squash. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley.

»

»

NAPLESILLUSTRATED.COM | FEBRUARY 2024

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BALANCE GOOD NATURE

MAIN SQUEEZE

SEASONAL CITRUS OFFERS MYRIAD WELLNESS BENEFITS

BY TAMMY FENDER

It smells like heaven this time of year, as the buds open on grapefruit and lemon trees. The intoxicating scent transports me back to my childhood in Florida, surrounded by the sweet fragrance of orange and tangerine groves. Memories of picking fruit and sipping juice from roadside stands flood my mind, evoking a sense of nostalgia for the simplicity of those times. As the bees in my garden go wild enjoying every bit of nectar, I’m also reminded that spring—and the appearance of orange blossom honey at local farmers markets—is not far behind.

Citrus fruit captures all of Florida’s divine sunshine and turns it into healing for the body, mind, and spirit. Fresh citrus fruit

peel of citrus sinensis. Research has shown that inhaling this oil can help to soften one’s emotions, reduce anxiety, decrease stresshormone levels, and even lower pulse rate and blood pressure.

An encounter with any citrus essential oil is likely to bring a smile to your face as they are inherently joyous. Over time, I’ve learned that each has a specific signature.

While lemon is upbeat, it also offers clarity and mental freshness that encourage good decisionmaking. Neroli is very supportive for deep relaxation. Sweet orange puts you at ease and boasts a nurturing warmth reminiscent of maternal comfort.

Fresh orange juice is a good source of While I encourage you to step vitamins C and A. outside to experience the beauty of citrus blooms directly and to drink plenty of freshly squeezed juice, juices contain vitamin C, which can bolster it’s also nice to amplify the effects with the immune system and reduce markers an essential oil. You can create a spritz at of inflammation. At the same time, citrus home by diluting several drops of essence fruits are full of protective antioxidants that of sweet orange in water; use it to enliven can counterbalance environmental stress. the environment when traveling or sitting But I’ve seen through decades of holistic at your desk. It’s especially lovely to scent practice that citrus fruit is strengthening in the air with this evocative aroma before some less obvious ways. journaling, or you can blend a drop into I’ve long called upon the therapeutic your favorite body lotion to luxuriate in the benefits of citrus-based essential oils, espearomatic uplift. « cially sweet orange cold-pressed from the

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BALANCE WEALTH

DON’T PANIC SELL IN 2024 FOR DECADES, INDEX FUNDS HAVE PROVEN TO OUTPERFORM THE MARKET. WHILE THERE’S A LOT OF UNCERTAINTY RIGHT NOW, ECONOMISTS RECOMMEND HOLDING ONTO STOCK INVESTMENTS DESPITE WHAT THE HEADLINES AND YOUR BANK STATEMENTS MAY SAY.

BY JOE PYE

I

nflation, rising interest rates, and slow economic growth made 2023 a volatile year in the stock market. In January 2023—in an act that typified this volatility and sent many into a frenzy—multimillionaire investor Michael Burry cryptically tweeted, “sell.”

It’s easy to ignore a single-word Tweet from some guy. But when that guy is known for single-handedly predicting the secondlargest economic crisis in U.S. history, people listen. However, those who reacted kicked themselves two months later when he tweeted, “I was wrong to say sell.”

Emotional responses can lead to major losses in the long-term. Furthermore, panic always leads to regret, explains Jay Ritter, an economics professor at the University of Florida (UF).

“Occasionally, Michael Burry or a Jim Cramer has insight—but that’s like once every 10

182

years,” Ritter says. “In the meantime, they’re giving out lots of different advice every day.

The best strategy for most people would be to completely ignore what they’re saying.”

Here’s what you should do this year instead.

Buy and Hold The alleged “investing gurus” may have the capital and insight to risk timing the market.

But Ritter recommends a more passive investment strategy, one that accrues more value in the long run.

Index funds are low-fee portfolios sold through investment management companies like Vanguard, Fidelity, or Charles Schwab.

The strategy is always the same: you purchase a small piece of 500 of the country’s largest companies. This group represents diverse industries, from Apple and Tesla to Chevron and Exxon Mobil.

It’s a smart strategy because it’s a numbers game. Since your ownership is spread out among 500 companies, if one’s having a bad day, there are 499 others making up the difference. The market naturally goes up and down. However, historic trends prove that the return on investment (ROI) exceeds inflation in the long-term.

“I’m old enough to remember the 1987 stock market crash,” says Ritter. “I got calls from several people that night, the next day, [asking,] ‘What should I do?’ And I said, with complete confidence, ‘You should do absolutely nothing. The stock market might go down further; it might stage a massive recovery.’ As it turned out, it did go down a little bit further before staging a massive recovery. But I had no doubt in my mind that the right thing to do for almost everybody was nothing—just buy and hold.”

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Diversify The beauty of an index fund portfolio is its diversity. But your overall investment portfolio should be diverse outside of equity stocks, says Rebel Cole, a finance professor at Florida Atlantic University (FAU).

With asset allocation, the goal is to build a portfolio made up of a wide variety of wealth.

Index fund portfolios can be more than equity stocks; you can also buy real estate and bond portfolios.

Cole, who is a former staff economist with the Federal Reserve and has been at FAU since 2016, teaches graduate-level courses in corporate finance and financial institutions.

He recommends this asset allocation formula: subtract your age from 100; take that result and put it in stocks; put the remaining balance in low-risk savings bonds.

For example, if you’re 30, your portfolio should be made up of 70 percent equity stocks and 30 percent low-risk savings

bonds. When you’re 60—and closer to retirement age—keep 40 percent in equity stocks and 60 percent in low-risk bonds or even short-term certificates of deposits or money market funds. The idea is to take on more risk while you are young and lower that risk as you age. But regardless of age, remember to not attempt to time the market and do not panic sell.

Your best investment strategy this year really is the easiest one: buy low-fee index funds and hold onto them. Ignore the experts and “doom and gloom” headlines when the market goes through its natural ebbs and flows.

“With index funds, you don’t have to wor-

ry—you’re on autopilot,” Cole says. “You’re not trying to pick sectors, winners, and losers when you don’t have any expertise. That’s exactly what I would recommend to most of my students, or their parents. Index funds— that’s the way to go.” «

Promotion and Events

WEST HOME COLLECTION A visit to West Home Collection is always an adventure. Our two showrooms are continually changing, with new and exciting treasures arriving every week. Come in and find framed art, furniture, and accessories that allow you to display your personal style throughout your home.

9465 Tamiami Trail N. | Naples | 239-596-7273 3465 Bonita Beach Road S.W. | Bonita Springs | 239-405-7705 westhomecollection.com

NAPLESILLUSTRATED.COM | FEBRUARY 2024

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LUXURY PREVIEW

Ficarra Design Associates 239-643-3450 ficarradesignassociates.com

DIANA TODOROVA PHOTOGRAPHY

A showcase of the area’s finest residences on the market

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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LUXURY PREVIEW

A PRESTIGIOUS PARADISE

ADDRESS 1598 Heights Court, Marco Island

BEDROOMS/BATHS Six bedrooms, seven full baths, one half bath

DEVELOPMENT Estates

SPECIAL FEATURES An extraordinary new construction opportunity awaits in the prestigious Estates area of Marco Island. The Paradise Design-Build team crafted this one-of-a-kind home, the latest release in their highly sought-after Luxury Resort Home Collection. Situated on a rare .59-acre lot, it has deepwater direct access and 167 feet of waterfront to accommodate a large yacht. It features six spacious en-suite bedrooms, seven full baths, one half bath, a fitness room, and an open kitchen with a butler’s pantry. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the living and dining rooms replete with 27-foot ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows. Entertain in style with

YEAR BUILT 2023 BUILDER Paradise Design-Build PRICE $9,675,000 SIZE 6,800 square feet

an outdoor kitchen, lounge, and dining area under a massive covered space protected by electric screens/ shutters. Car collectors will appreciate dual garages with space for up to eight vehicles. Key features include superior elevation, LEED and ADA techniques, advanced insulation, increased structural design, state-of-the-art windows, 12-foot glass door walls, a generator, and premium architectural design features and materials.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Michelle Thomas Premier Sotheby’s International Realty Phone: 239-860-7176 Email: michelle.thomas@premiersir.com Website: michelle.thomasteamflorida.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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12/26/23 1:39 PM

THIS WATERFRONT STUNNER WITH PANORAMIC VIEWS IS AN IDEAL RETREAT FOR BOAT AND CAR LOVERS.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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PELICAN BAY  MYSTIQUE, PH04

This incredible residence offers stunning, unobstructed views of the beautiful Naples coastline. The attention to detail in this truly unique penthouse is a rare find. The range of materials and luxury finishes throughout are vast. To say that there is an abundance of glass in this phenomenal residence would be an understatement. The natural light in every room is intoxicating. The views cannot be overstated, possibly the best on the Paradise Coast. No expense was spared in bringing the finest in finishes to this residence, with many unique one-of-a-kind features not to be found elsewhere. The secluded rooftop outdoor living area is simply unparalleled. Completely private, the 3,568 square foot rooftop paradise comprised of pool, sundeck, and outdoor entertainment areas are accessed by a private interior stairwell and offer vistas literally as far as the eye can see. This residence provides the ultimate in quality finishes, incredible Gulf of Mexico vistas, complete privacy and is without equal in the Naples marketplace today, truly, a bespoke residence for the most discerning of clientele. This is a very special opportunity. Why wait? Price upon request.

For more information, please contact Exclusive Listing Agent:

TIMOTHY P. SAVAGE, P.A. PRINCIPAL | REALTOR®

239.821.7576 w tim@gcipnaples.com

® Representing the Finest Properties in Naples, Florida 1144 Third Street South w 691 Fifth Avenue South w Naples, Florida 34102 w 239.434.2558 Waterside Shops: 5435-19 Tamiami Trail North w Naples, Florida 34108

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12/27/23 3:18 PM

Excellence Has An Address

$12,995,000

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Quail West - 4453 Brynwood Drive

Quail West - 6548 Highcroft Drive

Quail West - 6547 Highcroft Drive

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Navona at the Colony 23540 Via Veneto, #605

Excellence Has An Address QuailWestSales.com Call or email us for a complimentary consultation.

QuailWestSales@JohnRWood.com | 239-592-1010

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12/26/23 3:13 PM

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THE HOT TEST CULTURE AND COMMUNIT Y HAPPENINGS Impressionist artist Derric van Rensburg visits Native Visions Gallery on Fifth Avenue South on February 29 to discuss his bold and vibrant acrylic paintings.

TOP BILLING

OUT OF AFRICA “This is my first visit to Florida,” says South African–born artist Derric van Rensburg, an internationally known impressionist painter, who will visit Native Visions Gallery on Fifth Avenue South on the evening of Thursday, February 29. Van Rensburg will spend time discussing his latest compelling, bold, and vibrant acrylic paintings, adding “I am looking forward to spending time learning about Florida and meeting my audience.”

Founded by Ross Parker 36 years ago, Native Visions Gallery is a family-owned and -operated business that represents 23 artists in paintings, sculpture, and glasswork. The gallery supports local, national, and international nonprofits focused on combat-wounded veterans, children, and wildlife and environment conservation.

Van Rensburg has been working with Parker since 2019 and explains that the gallery has changed his rationale to painting, commenting he now has a new vision for his work—“much like an author writing about a new subject for the next exciting book.” (nativevisions.com) –Gaylene Salomons

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NAPLESILLUSTRATED.COM | FEBRUARY 2024

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COURTESY OF ARTIS—NAPLES

ARTS & EVENTS

NICK MELE

Clockwise from above: Vocalist Capathia Jenkins sings soulful favorites at Artis—Naples February 27 to March 2; Kept Woman and other works by photographer Nick Mele are on exhibit on Third Street South through March; catch Monarch Magic

by Annalu on display at East West Fine Art February 2-23.

GOINGS ON & PERFORMANCES 1 Jewish Book Festival, author event with Jane Saginaw (Because the World is Round), Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center, Naples, $25. (jewishbookfestival.org) CO UR TE SY O F

Old-Fashioned Cocktail Hour, learn the history of the old-fashioned at the oldest house in Naples, Historic Palm Cottage, Naples, $25. (napleshistoricalsociety.org)

women gather and network in support of Boys & Girls Club of Collier County, Naples Sailing & Yacht Club, $150. (bgccc.com)

2 BYO Backcountry Bike Tour, explore the sanctuary by bike, Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Naples, $55; youth $30. (corkscrew.audubon.org) Everglades Seafood Festival, the fifty-fourth annual seafood festival, Everglades City Hall, minimum $10 donation. (evergladesseafoodfestival.org)

Wine, Women & a Worthy Cause,

EA

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TF ES

A INE

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2 Corkscrew Beginner Swamp Walk, naturalist-guided excursion off the boardwalk, Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Naples, $100; ages 10 to 18, $70. (corkscrew.audubon.org)

Ferrari Club of Naples Annual Cars on 5th, Fifth Avenue South, Naples, visit website for pricing information. (fifthavenue south.com) Forest Bathing, a guided sensory experience with nature, Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, Naples, ages 18 and up, $50. (rookerybay.org)

Nicole Henry: Jazz, Hinman Auditorium, Arts Bonita, tickets start at $49. (artcenterbonita.org)

4 Naples Concert Band, “To Naples, With Love” with guest artist James Jones, Cambier Park, Naples, free, donations appreciated. (naplesconcertband.org)

5 Anthony Mrocka, evidential medium, Off the Hook Comedy Club, Naples, also Feb. 6, tickets start at $27. (offthehook comedy.com) 6 Steve Solomon: From Brooklyn to Broadway in Only 50 Years, a one-man comedy show, Daniels Pavilion, Artis—Naples, also Feb. 7, $59. (artisnaples.org)

7 Sunset Wednesdays, bask in the beauty of a Naples sunset while the garden stays open late, Naples Botanical Garden, also Feb. 14, 21, and 28, free with admission to garden. (naplesgarden.org) 8 Evening on Fifth, live musical performances along Fifth Avenue South, Naples, free. (fifthavenuesouth.com) Million Dollar Quartet, a tale of one of the greatest jam sessions at Sun Records in Memphis, Tennessee, G&L Theatre at Community School of Naples, to Feb. 11, also Feb. 15-18, tickets start at $50. (theatre.zone) 10 Bonita Springs National Art Festival, Riverside Park, Bonita Springs, also Feb. 11, free. (artcenterbonita.org)

Fine Arts & Craft Show, Cambier Park, Naples, free. (fifth avenuesouth.com)

Night at the Museum: CMON Dreamhouse, a Barbiethemed party with a purpose, Golisano Children’s Museum of

JOIN THE NAPLES PHILHARMONIC THROUGH A SPECIAL PROGRAM OF EUROPEAN SYMPHONIC FAVORITES GUIDED BY TRAVEL WRITER RICK STEVES ON FEBRUARY 10 IN HAYES HALL FOR RICK STEVES’ EUROPE: A SYMPHONIC JOURNEY. WITNESS THE ROLLING HILLS, CHARMING VILLAGES, ARCHITECTURAL WONDERS, AND NATURAL BEAUTY OF EUROPE IN THIS SENSATIONAL AUDIOVISUAL EXPERIENCE AS THE ORCHESTRA PLAYS ALONG; TICKETS FROM $72. (ARTIS NAPLES.ORG) —G.S.

O HI IRG

in support of its programs, The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón, $750. (starability.org)

JOIN LOCAL AUTHOR, ARCHITECT, AND PAINTER, RICHARD DIEDRICH, ON FEBRUARY 23, FROM 11 TO 12 P.M., AT HISTORIC PALM COTTAGE IN NAPLES FOR A GARDEN SIDE CHICKEE CHAT ($8). HIS COFFEE TABLE BOOK, PAINTING NAPLES ARCHITECTURE, IN WHICH HE HIGHLIGHTS LOCALLY SIGNIFICANT BUILDINGS, OLD AND NEW, WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE AND SIGNING. (NAPLESHIS TORICALSOCIETY.ORG)

SH

3 2024 Star Gala, STARability Foundation’s largest fundraiser

PICKS CK

Society—Marco Island, JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort, $300. (acsimaginationball.com)

NI

Imagination Ball, signature fundraiser for the American Cancer

Richard Diedrich visits Historic Palm Cottage to discuss local buildings, old and new, on February 23.

Naples, $1,000. (cmon.org)

Rick Steves’ Europe: A Symphonic Journey, the travel writer guides the orchestra through European symphonic favorites, Hayes Hall, Artis—Naples, tickets start at $72. (artisnaples.org) 12 Jewish Book Festival, author event with Benyamin Cohen (The Einstein Effect: How the World’s Favorite Genius Got into Our Cars, Our Bathrooms, and Our Minds), Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center, Naples, $25. (jewishbookfestival.org)

13 Ave Maria School of Law Mardi Gras event, dinner with speaker Newt Gingrich and dancing with The Assunto Dukes Tribute Band, exclusive private club, Naples, $1,000. (avemaria law.edu)

Wine & Wildlife, a sophisticated soiree in support of The Alliance for Florida’s National Parks, Naples Sailing & Yacht Club, $250. (floridanationalparks.org) 14 Evening on Fifth, live musical performances along Fifth Avenue South, Naples, free. (fifthavenuesouth.com) 15 Into the Breeches, a George Brant comedy, Norris Center, Naples, to March 10, tickets start at $38. (gulfshoreplayhouse.org)

16 John Primer: Chicago Blues Icon, Performing Arts Center, Arts Bonita, tickets start at $35. (artcenterbonita.org)

An Orchid Jubilee, Naples Orchid Society Annual Show & Sale, Naples Botanical Garden, to Feb. 18, free with admission to garden. (naplesorchidsociety.org)

17 Scene to be Seen, a fashion show in support of Naples Art Institute, Naples Grande Beach Resort, $600. (naplesart.org) THESE EVENT DETAILS ARE CURRENT AS OF PRESS TIME, BUT PLEASE CONTACT THE VENUE OR PRESENTER FOR THE MOST UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION.

NAPLESILLUSTRATED.COM | FEBRUARY 2024

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SCENE LOVE BLOOMS The Naples Orchid Society presents their fiftieth annual orchid show and sale, An Orchid Jubilee, at the Naples Botanical Garden from February 16 to 18. Admission to the show is included in the price of a regular garden ticket.

The show will feature prize-winning orchids of many species and hybrids; artistic displays of blooming orchid plants, containers of potted orchids, and cut orchid flower arrangements will compete for ribbons and awards. American Orchid Society judges will award outstanding single plants for best in show in a variety of classes.

The mission of the Naples Orchid Society is to promote the appreciation and cultivation of orchids as a hobby and preserve wild orchids indigenous to Southwest Florida through education and research. Founded in 1962, the society’s only requirement for membership is an interest in learning more about orchids and how they grow. (naplesorchidsociety.org) –G.S.

The Baker Museum at Artis—Naples. “George Gershwin and Modern Art: A Rhapsody in Blue” and “Selections from the Ahmet Ertegün Collection,” both Feb. 10 to June 16; “The Art of Food: From the Collections of Jordan D. Schnitzer and His Family Foundation,” to March 10; “Tamara Kostianovsky: Botanical Revolution,” to April 7; “The Face of Immokalee,” to April 28; “Florida Contemporary 2023-24,” to June 30. (artisnaples.org)

East West Fine Art, Naples. Works by Annalu, Feb. 2-23. (eastwestfineart.com) High Tide Studio and Gallery, Naples. “Nancy Nowak: Beyond Your Basic Landscapes!,” workshop, Feb. 26-28. (hightidestudioandgallery.com)

Kapnick Caribbean Garden at Naples Botanical Garden. “Musical Swings,” a collaborative musicmaking art installation, to April 20. (naplesgarden.org)

Marco Island Center for the Arts. Margarita Angel, La Petite Galerie, Feb. 5-27; “Just Another Canvas: Tattoos as Art,” to Feb. 27. (marcoislandart.org)

NICK SHIRGHIO

Marco Island Historical Museum. “Key Marco

18 Laura Wright and Eden McCoy, General Hospital stars live on stage, Off the Hook Comedy Club, Naples, tickets start at $45. (offthehookcomedy.com) 20 The Mersey Beatles: Four Lads from Liverpool, a concert featuring the entire A Hard Day’s Night album, G&L Theatre at Community School of Naples, also Feb. 21, tickets start at $50. (theatre.zone)

22 Calling All Superheroes!, themed evening in support of Fun Time Early Childhood Academy, Grey Oaks Country Club, Naples, $400. (funtime academy.org) Kind Mariners Ball, tenth annual ball in support of Freedom Waters Foundation, Naples Sailing & Yacht Club, $450. (freedomwatersfoundation.org) 23 Annual Ikebana Exhibit, view the Japanese art of flower arranging, Naples Botanical Garden, to Feb. 25, free with admission to garden. (naplesgarden.org)

Believing in Girls Luncheon, inspirational event featuring Pace alumnae, The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón, $200. (pacecenter.org) Garden Side Chickee Chat, author, architect, and

painter, Richard Diedrich, will highlight locally significant buildings, old and new, Historic Palm Cottage, Naples, $8. (napleshistoricalsociety.org)

Cat Smithsonian Exhibition,” through April 2026. (themihs.org)

Naples Art Institute. “The Power of Photography: Iconic Images from the Collection of Peter Fetterman,” to April. (naplesart.org)

24 Bucket List Bash, the fourteenth annual signature fundraising gala for the American Cancer Society in Naples, The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón, $750. (acsbucketlistbash.com)

Quidley & Company, Naples. “Anne Packard Exhibition,” to Feb. 13. (quidleyandco.com)

Wishmaker’s Party, Night of 1,000 Wishes,

Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center,

dinner and a wish celebration, exclusive private club, Naples, $475. (wish.org)

Naples. “2024 Natural Selections: Photography Annual Exhibition,” Feb. 6 to April 26. (rookerybay.org)

25 A Season of Music Concert Series, Catherine

Third Street South, Naples. “La Bonne Vie: Art and Fashion Imitate Life and Each Other,” photographer Nick Mele on exhibit, in collaboration with Ala von Auersperg, Well Made Home, A Mano, and more, in support of Women Lifting Women, a Women’s Foundation Fundraising Initiative, Camargo Courtyard, Naples, through March. (thirdstreetsouth.com)

Lan & Tao Lin piano concert, First Presbyterian Church, Naples, freewill offering. (fpcnaples.org)

27 She’s Got Soul, vocalist Capathia Jenkins in a captivating night of soul, Hayes Hall, Artis—Naples, to March 2, tickets start at $68. (artisnaples.org) 28 All That Jazz, with special guest Jesse Davis on saxophone, Daniels Pavilion, Artis—Naples, $65. (artisnaples.org)

29 Meet the Artist, contemporary wildlife artist Derric van Rensburg discusses his latest paintings, Native Visions Gallery, Naples, free. (nativevisions.com)

VISUAL ARTS & GALLERIES Aldo Castillo Gallery, Naples. “Button Artist: Augusto Esquivel,” on display, Feb. 7-11. (aldocastillogallery.com)

©2024 Palm Beach Media Group North, LLC. All rights reserved.

Naples Illustrated [ISSN 10996303] [USPS # 16626] is published monthly, except August, by Palm Beach Media Group North, LLC. Known office of the publication: 3066 Tamiami Trail N, Suite 102, Naples, FL 34103. Periodical postage paid at West Palm Beach, FL and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Naples Illustrated c/o Palm Beach Media Group North, LLC., P.O. Box 3344, Palm Beach, FL 33480. Subscription price: $35 per year. Outside U.S. add $40 per year for postage and handling. Send subscription orders to: Subscription Department, Naples Illustrated, P.O. Box 3344, Palm Beach, FL, 33480 or email: circulation@naplesillustrated. com, fax (561) 659-1736. Volume 27, No. 2, February 2024.

Visit our website at naplesillustrated.com Naples Illustrated and Palm Beach Media Group North, LLC. retain exclusive rights to all editorial and photographic materials used, which cannot be reproduced in any manner without written consent.

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FULL BLOOM BUYING INFORMATION PAGE 134 Ruched bandeau top in Taxicab Multi ($990), embellished beaded cropped jacket ($5,290), high-waisted skinny pants ($1,090), Demi Lune belt ($890), Carolina Herrera, carolinaherrera.com; Amita 45 smoky blue fishnet mesh slingback pumps ($825), Jimmy Choo, jimmychoo.com; Candied crystal choker ($1,290), mixed stone coin earrings ($590), Oscar de la Renta, Marissa Collections, Third Street South, Naples, oscardelarenta.com.

PAGE 135 Dress ($4,300), cuff bracelet ($1,490), lower ear cuff ($290), upper ear cuff ($290), Alexander McQueen, alexandermcqueen.com PAGE 136 Long brocade dress with abstract flower print ($2,445), long brocade coat with abstract flower print ($4,995), Dolce & Gabbana, dolcegabbana.com; Rosalia Flowers 65 black leather pumps with flowers ($975), Jimmy Choo, jimmychoo.com; small hand-casted Starfruit hoop earrings ($550), Oscar de la Renta, Marissa Collections, Third Street South, Naples, oscardela renta.com.

PAGE 137 Dress ($7,500), Valentino, Marissa Collections, Third Street South, Naples, valentino.com PAGE 138 Torero primavera tweed jacket with fringe ($1,100), Playa primavera tweed shorts with tassels ($620), La Double J, ladoublej.com; beaded hoop earrings ($390), Carolina Herrera, carolinaherrera.com.

PAGE 139 Blouse ($3,800), pants ($3,300), D-Bubble bag in white multicolor Albero della Vita cotton embroidery ($3,450), Dior, dior.com; Rosalia Flowers 65 pumps with flowers ($975), Jimmy Choo, jimmychoo.com; Cloudy resin layered chandelier earrings ($490), Oscar de la Renta, Marissa Collections, Third Street South, Naples, oscardelarenta.com.

PAGE 140 Neoprene top ($2,000), Fantasy tweed dress ($8,450), Mary Jane shoes ($1,375), perfume bottle necklace ($1,300), leather and chain necklace ($900), hoop earrings ($950), Chanel, Saks Fifth Avenue, Waterside Shops, Naples, chanel.com PAGE 141 Balloon-sleeve silk taffeta caftan ($5,490), dotted petals pearl drop earrings ($360), Oscar de la Renta, Marissa Collections, Third Street South, Naples, oscardelarenta.com; Rosalia Flowers 65 pumps with flowers ($975), Jimmy Choo, jimmychoo.com.

PAGE 142 Allover Anemone silk organza flower patch dress ($6,950), Akris, akris. com; flower earrings (price upon request), Carolina Herrera, carolina herrera.com.

PAGE 143 Long-sleeve mock-neck faille silk double-breasted coat with covered buttons and red bow detail ($9,000), Gucci, Waterside Shops, Naples, gucci.com; Aurelie 65 silver liquid metal leather pointed pumps with pearl embellishment ($925), Jimmy Choo, jimmychoo.com; embellished box bag ($8,895), Dolce & Gabbana, dolcegabbana.com; Cloudy resin asymmetrical pearl earrings ($420), Oscar de la Renta, Marissa Collections, Third Street South, Naples, oscardelarenta.com.

NAPLESILLUSTRATED.COM | FEBRUARY 2024

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LAST WORD cover of the Style section. The rest is history!

You have a special relationship with your clientele. How does that influence your designs?

My clients are everything. When you’re designing for runway, the priority is very different than when you’re designing for clients. Runway, you’re thinking of the editors, press, influencers, really people who don’t open their wallets, so I can come up with crazy and over-the-top designs.

When you work with a real client, the process is very different. My design comes alive only when I put it on one of my doyennes. It is about fitting it on them live. That flow of creative energy is beyond!

And that’s also why we end up friends for life.

What was your first foray into fashion?

At age 13, I had a patternmaker teach me how to sew and make patterns. [After that,] I made my sister’s clothes; she was my first muse. At 21, I opened my first atelier in Coconut Grove. Some of my first walk-ins were Kate Moss, Neve Campbell (who commissioned me for a dress for the MTV awards), and Denise Richards.

How did you get your “King of Pants” moniker?

I studied architecture, [so] form and volume, lines and structure are everything to me. Pants are the hardest thing to get right, so I decided to focus on that after a buyer from Saks Fifth Avenue requested more pants and a couple of jackets. By 2003, Kate Winslet (who became a private client) had proclaimed me the “Lord of the Pants.” The press got wind of that, and everyone from Vogue to CNN was using the same moniker. In 2012, when I acquired my company back, Eric Wilson of The New York Times proclaimed me as the “King of Pants” on the

REAL TALK WITH...

Alvin Valley

The Florida-based designer and reigning “King of Pants” reflects on where he’s been and where he’s going

BY KATHERINE LANDE

You’ve launched made-to-measure, ready-to-wear, sunglasses, shoes, handbags, perfume, swimwear, and a lingerie collection.

What’s next?

We have a few cards still up our sleeves. More store locations and a full line of shapewear are in the works. This upcoming spring, we will be in a handful of exclusive boutiques including Net-a-Porter with Alvin Valley Jeans.

The Alvin Valley collection includes readyto-wear, handbags, shoes, and more.

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Award-winning design. Fine furniture.

Immediate delivery.

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