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100 QUEST HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE Our curated selection of gifts to make the season merry and bright. by Brooke

112 CHRISTMAS CHEER THROUGH PARTIES PAST Recalling festive fêtes of years past and looking ahead to the soirées still to come. by

116 A NEW YORK HOLIDAY Quest’s favorite hotels and restaurants for toasting the season in Manhattan. by Brooke Kelly Murray

122 WILL “21” RETURN IN ’26? STAY TUNED! The legendary restaurant— closed since 2020 and now owned by Belmond—may soon see a new chapter. by

Kelly Murray

Hilary Geary Ross

Audax 122

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

DAVID PATRICK C O LUMBIA

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

ELIZABETH MEIGHER

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

TYKISCHA JACOBS

MANAGING EDITOR

BROOKE KELLY MURRAY

DESIGN EDITOR

JAYNE CHASE

CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER

ROBERT BENDER

PHOTOGRAPHER-AT-LARGE

JULIE SKARRATT

SOCIETY EDITOR

HI LARY GEARY

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

GIGI BENSON

TONY HALL

ROBERT JANJIGIAN

RICHARD JOHNSON

KAREN KLOPP

JAMES MACGUIRE

HAVEN PELL

CHUCK PFEIFER

JANIE PIERREPONT

LIZ SMITH (R.I.P.)

TAKI THEODORACOPULOS

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

HARRY BENSON

CAPEHART PHOTOGRAPHY

BILLY FARRELL

MARY HILLIARD

CRISTINA MACAYA

CUTTY MCGILL

PATRICK MCMULLAN

NICK MELE

ANNIE WATT

NICK SHIRGHIO

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indeed! It’s been a roller-coaster year, moving with near warp speed as we race to the end. Nonetheless, our society stands stable, less divisive and more grounded, having stared down our marked differences with typical American pluck. And for all of the frenzied outcry about New York’s rising crime, filthy streets, and political dismantlement, the City remains vibrant, younger and endearingly resilient; why even the newly elected Socialist Mayor made time for a coffee with our President, their common ground being a genuine affection for the wonder and majesty of New York, New York - a city so massively energized that they had to name it twice!

And with December comes Quest’s annual Christmas number (the largest we’ve published in 39 years!!) with a stunning cover of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker - staged in the fabled Painted Hall at the Cavendish family’s Chatsworth House. For you Jane Austen fans, and Editorial Director Elizabeth Meigher is a passionate one, Chatsworth appears in Austen’s epic Pride and Prejudice as Mr. Darcy’s house, Pemberley. But it was Deborah Cavendish, the late but still much beloved Dowager Duchess of Devonshire (“Debo” to her family and friends) and the last surviving of the six notorious Mitford sisters, who became the face of Chatsworth and cleverly turned her husband’s inherited estate into a commercially solvent and much visited “pile.” Her son Peregrine Cavendish, the 12th Duke of Devonshire, now resides at, and ably manages Chatsworth; he’s also become the family overseer of the legendary bookseller, Heywood Hill - familiar, no doubt to Quest’s more bookish readers who cherish receiving HH Ltd. tomes, always carefully sheathed in the shop’s signature plain brown wrapping paper.

Further on in this record breaking issue you’ll find an amusing photo trove and fond remembrances of Christmas parties past, nimbly assembled and penned by Hilary Geary Ross, Quest’s esteemed Society Editor and hostess supreme; from Manhattan to Washington ... Southampton to Palm Beach, nobody sets (nor seats) a table as ingeniously as Hilary. On pages 88-89, Quest’s best-read columnist Taki has thoughtfully delivered a poignant profile of his aristocratic gal pal, Lady Annabel Goldsmith, after

whom her first husband, the incomparable and charming Mark Birley, named his urbanely refined London club ... and to which all other nightspots are to this day still compared. And speaking of apocryphal saloons, don’t miss Contributor Jamie “Audax” MacGuire’s reminiscent piece on the much missed 21 Club and one of its most judicious gatekeepers, Terry Dinan. Ohh, how we miss Christmas caroling at “21” with the Salvation Army Band, clinking our Waterford glasses to ��Jingle Bells, accompanied by a tambourine, trombone, and a tuba!

Finally, in this sanguine season of kindness and giving, let us all give thanks ... to what Wordsworth called “the nameless acts of love”. As a collective magazine and digital staff, we are cheered by and enormously grateful for your generous and ongoing support; in an era where the printed word is euphemistically called “legacy media,” Quest has grown substantially in both paid circulation and advertising pages, largely due to you, our loyal and hugely appreciated audience. May this next year - Quest’s 40th! - bring “Peace on Earth, to Women and Men of good will.” And decency. ◆

Chris Meigher

ON THE COVER:

Ballet dancers from The Claire Dobinson School of Dance recreate The Nutcracker in The Painted Hall at Chatsworth House in Derbyshire, England. (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)

Clockwise from bottom left: President Donald and First Lady Melania Trump with Wilbur Ross and Jane Churchill at a Ross Christmas party; Hilary Geary Ross (right) with her mother, Patricia Murray Quest’s December 2010 Holiday Issue; Columnist Taki Theodoracopulos; interior of the beloved 21 Club; Heywood Hill, London; Duchess of Devonshire, 1980; Contributor Jamie MacGuire a.k.a Audax.

Happy Holidays

Photo by Jill Lotenberg

David Patrick Columbia NEW YORK SO CIAL DIARY

ANN RAPP died last month. For those who may not know to whom I’m referring, she was 88 and living in a “home,” a circumstance of her “advanced age.” I can still recall the very first time I ever saw her; it was at a corporate reception where I spotted her and, drawn in by her presence, when I learned her name. And a friendship

was born.

Upon meeting her, she wasn’t so much a great beauty as she was a compelling presence — though she had undoubtedly been a great beauty in her youth, when she looked like a movie star. As it happened, she was an LA native, and we always shared a vivid, almost literary nostalgia for the place. She

grew up in the environs of the studios, and by her teens, she was well known in the film community, often surrounded by the children of Hollywood’s mid-century “Golden Age” stars. Getting to know her, as I did, I learned she had married a young man who was as handsome as she was beautiful. They looked every

LIVING LANDMARKS CELEBRATION IN NEW YORK

bit the movie star couple, and when I lived out west in the ’70s, they had their Beverly Hills mansion where they entertained the film and social community — the golden couple that they were.

However, by the time I first came to know her well, he, Mr. Golden Couple, had “disappeared.” It was a great mystery. They had

Peg Breen

Ronald and Aerin Lauder

Sandra and Stan Warshawsky

Lloyd Zuckerberg and Stephen Lash

Marea Parker and Peter Speicher

Barbara Tober

Darren Walker and Marina Kellen French JAMES SALZANO; NOEL SUTHERLAND

DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA

an apartment in Paris, and she came home one day to find that he had completely vanished, taking all his belongings and photographs, disappearing from Ann’s life. You got the distinct impression that it was a terrible loss, one she covered up with her intelligent and curious personality.

This personality was often revealed through her captivating stories. Her accounts of her life in California, on yachts on the Mediterranean, and private jets moving them to residences in the Caribbean were filled with fascinating references to the famous and the rich, and

all were interesting to these ears. Although she soon told me the details of his disappearance, she never let the mystery overshadow her narrative.

And so it was; she never mentioned him again.

Ann had immense curiosity.

She’d walk into a room — a great ravenhaired beauty — and leave having learned something astonishing, fascinating, or enlightening, or perhaps having just met somebody

who piqued her interest. She was an inveterate reader and collector of all kinds of information. She was one of that rare breed of woman who had all the attributes of a journalist or an author, except she wasn’t a writer.

So what did we talk about?

Everything. We discussed everyone and everything about the room: backwards, forwards, up, down. And, of course, the state of things as they are and as they seem.

One summer day about ten or so years ago, I was walking up Third Avenue when I happened to pass a man I’d met through Ann. His father was a famous lawyer for major shipowners like Onassis, and so we chatted about Ann, whom he hadn’t seen in some time. Because I knew he’d known Ann for many years, including time in Europe with her husband, my curiosity won out. I asked him directly: “Where do you think Mr. Rapp disappeared to?”

“ Disappeared?! He was murdered in cold blood. In the street in a famous city on the Mediterranean.

DPC at Michael’s with Ann Rapp, 2013.

Maureen Conte, Susan Lundin, and Silvia Perez

BALLET PALM BEACH'S RECEPTION AT THE COLONY

Deborah Pollack, Jim Verrant, and Carol Anderson

Colleen Smith, Steve Caras, and Anka Palitz

Lee and Cece Black

Arlette Gordon and Stanton Collemer

Jill Hamilton and Heather Olson

Pam Bove, Erin McGould, and Brandie Herbst

SOUTHAMPTON · PALM BEACH · LAKE TEGERNSEE · SYLT · MUNICH

Everyone knew the story: he owed so many people and never paid up that finally, one of those ‘losers’ who gave him money had had enough, and killed him in the street. Everybody knew what happened!”

At that particular time, years having passed, I didn’t see Ann frequently, mainly because we publish five days a week. Our world had also changed dramatically, just like everyone else’s. I also never told Ann what that longtime acquaintance of hers had revealed to me. Her loss took more than just a “life” from Ann…

I never knew how Ann truly felt about her husband’s murder. At least the early years of their

DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA

marriage were actively fascinating for them, living here and abroad where he conducted business. No doubt, their life together was enhanced by his beautiful, charming, and intelligent wife, because Ann was a natural charmer. This last year of her life was even more isolating. No doubt these last few years were uncomfortable and even disappointing for her. She is finally freed.

There's a guy I read frequently. It’s one of those reading habits where the writer is impressive in terms of his way of thinking. I’m in agreement with him generally. His name is Doug Casey. And one day last month expressed it perfectly.

It was his column about (our)(human) behavior in life. Casey referred to them as (the rise of) Phyles and LikeMinded Communities ….and Why You Need To Find One Right Now.

Well, that’s one way of looking at this “holiday” coming up, the one you were waiting all year for. If for no other reason than the Old Year is already by-gones, thankfully. Or because you’re still a kid, and still in that phase. No matter your age it’s the perfect holiday for us to be giving what he or she were hoping for.

Although there is also often the opposite dilemma in these days, albeit a simple one— the gift doesn’t arrive on time—but there’s a need

to enjoy ourselves. That’s the big gift.

Many a household is a catch-all for the troubles that are seemingly magnified around this time of year. But because of the social aspect, people are busy preparing, participating, and worrying about who needs what (Christmas present). Nevertheless, the effort is to please; that’s the “touch of love” that we all naturally need.

For us grownups, it’s also the holiday for parties of all types of gatherings, and because it’s the “holiday” your behavior can change and even be fun, even relaxed.

Created originally as a holiday for those who are Christian, celebrating the

Juliet Burrows, Liz Collins, and Grela Orihuela PATRICK MCMULLAN

MUSEUM OF ARTS AND DESIGN'S MAD BALL IN NEW YORK

Carrie Rebora Barratt and Tim Rodgers

Bradley Holbeck, Lisa DeVilla, Ana Peters, and Morgan Holbeck

Caroline Blackman and Elizabeth Falk

Barbara Tober and Michele Cohen

Elissa Auther and Jonathan Adler

Cory Baker and Simon Doonan

DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA

TOASTING TOM SCHEERER: STILL DECORATING IN NEW YORK

birth of the Jesus Christ child in a stable—the only place they could find in Bethlehem which was full up at the time when the parents Mary and Joseph arrived and the child was born.

By religion, the day naturally matured from at least the year 336 AD/1,638 years ago; from a child born in a stable into a religious celebration. And now to a public fellowship for all, if there’s a religious rule that shines for some, it is the enhanced fellowship that people fall into naturally.

Because it feels good to be good. All fascinating to consider while honoring history and our respect for it—at least as an idea, we are busy doing it. And

these “social” gatherings are often for fundraising for supporting beneficial matters for us inhabitants.

This past season, the social calendar that we review and report on here— which in many ways feels like being in the center of the World when you live here—has been very busy.

Then, there’s the bill which leads me to another national phenomenon.

I’ve been getting political mail every day for months now from both sides of the political fence. All of which, no matter the issue or the

party, are asking for money to campaign. That seems to be what the main intention is. The volume is new to my experience. Or as my father wudda said: “Every goddamned day.”

The

“mailers” are, of course, the Repubs and the Dems, and I am somehow on both of their lists everyday, which is fine with me. Except:

These frequent messages come from candidates from all over the United States, running for offices whose jurisdictions I, as a citizen

of the State of New York, am outside of. Are we syndicated now?

And what they are looking for? Not your political opinion, that’s for sure. Your Moola honey.

Everything is about the Money. That’s the impression left with the reader/voter who has his own empty pockets that he’s/she’s worried about.

That’s the bag we’re in. This is a serious matter which history will blame on the Money’s fault that we spent it. Ironically the Money is now the subject for the whole human race.

Because it’s “worth” or value is no longer the value it was based on just a few decades ago. The economics of our existence is in question right

The Nativity

Mark Gilbertson, Evelyn Tompkins, and Gil Schafer

John Fondas and Jennifer Ash Rudick

Francesca Stratton and Douglas Steinbrech

Tom Scheerer

Andrew Roosevelt, Farran Tozer Brown, and John Knott

Beatrice Vincenzini and Mark Magowan

Helen Feid and Suzy Bancroft

ANNIE WATT; GREG OLSEN

now. Because it’s “worth” or value is no longer the value it was based on. Even the cost of making a penny now is more than the value of the penny which is 1 cent.

This is a first , at least in a couple of centuries. The dollar, for example, was designed to be One Hundred Cents . Or ten dimes. Or twenty nickels or four quarters. Before. However, the U.S. dollar, for example was worth Zero Cents. Yes: nada . This came to pass over decades of overspending.

But that’s nothing. I was reading that over in England, the so-long-called The Royal Family is coming apart. King

DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA

Charles III (I still think of him as Prince Charles.) He threw his (not-so-anymore) little brother Andrew out of his 30 room digs (it’s called a palace) where their late Mother had put him (her favorite) in Windsor and bro Charles put him in in a cold and lonely big empty house somewhere else. And now that the King/Prince is very unwell, they’re now referring to it in the press.

reduced into plain old Andrew, was his mother’s favorite. His father, Prince Philip, also felt the same way about him. His first born brother Charles never got that kind of attention that Andrew got, and even after he was a bad boy.

more important politically than her husband, and more famous and even beloved to the citizens of the world. Until she was in an automobile “accident” where a few hours after she was in a hospital dead.

Ironically Prince Andrew, or should I say as he’s being

And Charles always had an eye and a thought of getting out of his marriage to Diana whom he treated miserably while she was out there across the world representing the United Kingdom, looking better and

Too bad Princess Diana had to learn the hard way by being married to him. Although the image of her came out to the world of a deeply caring and sensitive woman, especially with children.

Meanwhile back in New York, we have a new Mayor who was elected as someone new, although how new remains to be seen. However, it’s New

UNTERMYER GARDENS CONSERVANCY'S GALA IN WESTCHESTER COUNTY

Prince Andrew

Ali and Samira Askari

Dhan Pai and Henry Heller

Katy Palizban and Nazanin Boniadi

Parmis Khatibi and Nikan Khatibi

Elizabeth Beim and Thomas Lollar

Nazanin Boniadi and Mayor Mike Spano

Ali Jabini and Molly Palm

DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA

ALZHEIMER'S DRUG DISCOVERY FOUNDATION'S LUNCHEON IN NEW YORK

York and it’s the immortal holiday contribution to our hearts and ears, as well our celebration of the immortal presence of life in the big town. Last month the menu for our upcoming “holiday” was what anyone could expect of New Yorkers.

Almost every night (and day) running up to to the big day, we were gifted with our talents to learn, to be amused, to be excited to be with each other, and celebrate the greatness we in the Big Town can’t deny the human race.

There were celebrations of our natural American philanthropy celebrating the raising of funds where the American Cancer Society honored its leaders at luncheons and dinners; where the Alzheimer's

Drug Discovery Founndation hosted by Ronald Lauder who was honored for the legacy he shared with his recently departed late brother Leonard Lauder for their ongoing global fight to cure the diseased.

The Honors and Celebrations were vast and widely varied for one big town. There was The Royal Oak Foundation celebrated the friendship and cultural heritage of America and Britain; while over on 583 Park, the American Cancer Society celebrated its leaders at a 2025 Heroes of the Year Luncheon;

where the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation hosted its 28th annual Collaborating for a Cure.

One memorable night, the Alzheimer’s Association celebrated its “The Magic of the Mind” led by its leader Princess Yasmin Aga Khan, inspired by the fate of her mother Rita Hayworth honoring veteran supporter Peter Thomas Roth for his unwavering commitment to fight against the terrible disease.

On another night, the 19th annual Hope For Depression Research Foundation

Luncheon gathered at The Plaza “to discuss the link between stress and depression, where Karen Klopp and Hilary Dick recapped the vital research present.

The elegant Manhattan Fête des Amis celebrated the French-American bonds to a joyful Harlem toast, marking 25 years of empowering youth with the power of commitment, community, and investing in the next generation. The Holland Society of New York (founded in 1885) held it 135th (yes, it’s true!!) Dinner Dance honoring Louise Mirrer, which honors and preserves the rich history of this New Netherland.

There was a Royal call to action for our “most

Rita Hayworth with her daughter, Yasmin, 1957.

Paula Zahn and Phebe Farrow Port

Dr. Howard Fillit, Bonnie Pfeifer Evans, and Mark Roithmayr

Miia Kivipelto and Gary Lauder

Ronald Lauder

Bonnie Lautenberg and Nancy Goodes

Muffie Potter Aston and Claudia Overstrom

Daisy Soros and Marilu Henner

vulnerable” for Childhood KUSA, which gathered philanthropic leaders and HRH Princess Madeline of Sweden, whose mother founded it to ensure every child is seen, heard, and supported on the path to a life free from sexual abuse and exploitation.

There was also a glamorous week of Francophile gatherings with the French Heritage Society celebrating author Sebastian Smee and raised funds to protect France’s storied artistic legacy. There was the MAD Ball, a celebration of craft, creativity, and the truly MAD partnership of Jonathan Adler and Simon Doonan. Drama at the Disco Vol. 2:

a Celebration of Creativity benefieted the Drama League Directors Project.

On another night, Lee Fryd kicked up her heels at the annual Noel Shoe Ball, where designer Vanessa Noel, the woman behind the weel-heeled, is now amassing a collection for the Noel Shoe Museum.

with guests reveling as Henry Clay Frick’s family did a century ago.

That same night, The Frick Collection celebrated its return to Fifth avenue with a spectactular black-tie Gilded Age costume ball; the one-time event paying homage to Mr. Frick’s century-old legacy,

On yet another night, commitment to global change was underscored by not one but two important events: the US Holocaust Memorial Museum Tribute Dinner as well as the KidSpirit Teen Voices Benefit, which empowers young leaders to explore life’s biggest questions.

The Teatro alla Scala Association of America held its Annual Gala here where a spectacular performance met

a campaign to bring opera’s legacy to the next generation cultivating the next Opera greats—from Milan to Manhattan. The French American Aid for Children held its annual dinner celebrating friendships, their grantees, and the FAAFC’s leadership.

These weeks leading up to the last holidays of the old year were filled daily and nightly with so many events and dinners, all important to many of its backers, supporters, and its fans, followers, and New Yorkers participating in the ongoing activities that make New York the spectacular city with its millions of devoted citizens. ◆

The Frick's Costume Ball PATRICK MCMULLAN

Daniel Bramer, Stella Kavvadia, and Jonn Nubian

Benny Tabatabai, Ellie Manko, and James Goldsmith

Nicole Miller, Sonia Nassery Cole, and Mark Dorfman

Carmen D'Alessio

NOEL SHOE MUSEUM'S ANNUAL BALL IN NEW YORK

Janna Bullock, David Weiner, and Elizabeth Steimberg

Kari Tiedemann and Sir Kenneth Hawkins

Alex Donner and Vanessa Noel

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American Ballet Theatre

FEBRUARY 15

Gipsy Kings

Featuring Nicolas Reyes

MARCH 5

The Irish Tenors

FEBRUARY 4

Chazz Palminteri: A Bronx Tale

FEBRUARY 19

Direct From Sweden: The Music of ABBA

MARCH 7

The Marshall Tucker Band

Support

FEBRUARY 11

The Sixties Show 2026 North American Tour

FEBRUARY 24

Bruce Weber Every ticket holder gets his latest book!

MARCH 14

All Things Equal: The Life & Trials of Ruth Bader Ginsburg

FEBRUARY 13

Paula Poundstone From the #1 NPR show, Wait Wait...Don’t Tell Me.

MARCH 1

Walter Isaacson: The Greatest Sentence Ever Written

MARCH 15

Masters of Illusion Believe the Impossible

DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA

SALON ART + DESIGN'S OPENING NIGHT IN NEW YORK

Julie and Lue Freed with Hillary and Ben Macklowe

Edgardo Osorio, Indré Rockefeller, and Ricardo Figueiredo

Isiah Magsino and Alessia Fendi

Linda Fargo Renee Rockefeller, Elizabeth Callender, and Jamie Tisch

Nathalie de Gunzburg and Dominique Lévy

Lizzie Tisch

ROYAL OAK FOUNDATION'S NEW YORK BENEFIT

Laura Burlington and James Reginato

Philip Reeser and Ian Murray

Michael Boyd, Marianne Minnich, and Analisa Minnich

Paul Philiips and Marshall Erb

Tom Kelly, Betsy Barbanell, Mark Rickabaugh, and Lynne Rickabaugh

Doug Hayward and Jeffrey Feagan

Will Harcourt-Smith, Matthew Anderson, and Patrick Monahan

DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA

CASITA MARIA'S FIESTA IN NEW YORK

Jeannette and Alexander Sanger

William Cavendish, Barbara Tober, and Rick Friedberg

Jonathan Marder and Yanna Avis

Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe and Jackie Weld Drake

Sharon Bush and Francine LeFrak

Gilbert Saenz and Gail Heidel

Mary Snow and Lil Phillips

Topper Quinn and Muffie Potter Aston

Natalie Dougherty and Polina Proshkina

Noel Momsen and Eddie Hersaut

DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA

Iman Abdulmajid and Nardos Imam

Angela and James Ho

Alex DiMattia and Christine Shevchenko

Misty Copeland and Elizabeth Segerstrom

Melonie Nance and Susan Jaffe

Grace Ann Nader, Brooks Nader, Mary Holland Nader, and Sarah Jane Nader

Kylie Vonnahme

Susan and Bristil Fales-Hill

Nicole Ari Parker

EDGAR DEGAS

“Making Spirits Bright” with Canadian Brass Wednesday, December 3 at 7:30 p.m.

Exhibition on Screen: Caravaggio Saturday, December 6 at 2 p.m.

The Met Live in HD: Andrea Chénier Saturday, December 13 at 1 p.m.

Special Screening: The Nutcracker Sunday, December 14 at 2 p.m.

“Every Picture Tells A Story” with David Montgomery Monday, December 15 at 3 p.m.

Photo by David Montgomery

1. Annette Gordon-Reed and Abby Milstein 2. Bruce Springsteen 3. Hortense le Gentil-Joly and Hubert Joly 4. James Patterson 5. Patrice and Christine Louvet 6. Katharine Rayner and Joan Hardy Clark

Jon Landau, Barbara Landau, and Spike Lee

Megan Zuckerman

Lauren Santo Domingo and Alejandra Cicognani

1. Beth Kojima, Chris Kojima, and Dana Wallach 2. Lionel Larner 3. Mackenzie Wanicka and Robert Rohrbach 4. Jay Penske and Tony Marx 5. Sylvain Costof

6. George Farias and Martha Stewart

7. Megan Melbourne and Brittany Beyer Harwin 8. Jason Beckman, Alex Tisch, Katherine Jenkins, and Andrew Levitas 9. James McBride and Daniel Kehlmann

DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA

CHANEL'S PREMIÈRE GALON LAUNCH DINNER IN NEW YORK

Devon Lee Carlson and Paloma Elsesser

Riley Keough

Annabelle Dexter-Jones

Sarah Pidgeon and Annie Hamilton

Ruby Lyn

Lucy Boynton

Joanna Halpin, Krissy Jones, and Leandra Medine

Christie Tyler and Coco Schiffer

JANUARY 15 - 18, 2026

Raise A Glass To All That’s Good

Join us for a celebration of world-class wines and acclaimed chefs at South Florida’s iconic The Boca Raton—in support of a meaningful cause. In partnership with Napa Valley Vintners.

100+ Winemakers

20+ Michelin-Starred & Celebrated Chefs

20+ Curated Experiences

Vintner-Hosted Dinners

Gala and Charity Auction

DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA

ALZHEIMER'S ASSOCIATION'S IMAGINE BENEFIT IN NEW YORK

Josie Natori

Marilyn Chinitz and Nancy Sambuco

Jake Heinrichs and Rachel Chavkin

Meghan Klopp and Allie Michler Kopelman

Alexander Yulish and Lily Johnson White with Brooke and Oliver Kennan

Elizabeth Meigher and Katherine Gage Boulud

Pamela Morgan and Meredith Marks

Joanne Pike, Peter Gallagher, and Paula Harwood

Allie Provost

Molly Reilly and Alexander Wilson

DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA

AUTUMN FÊTE AT BONPOINT IN NEW YORK

Meghan Klopp, Pamela Tick, and Madeline O'Malley

Farrell Crowley and Alison Marschalk

Eaddy Kiernan Bunzel

Stephanie Kearney, Nathalie Pierrepont Danilovich, Louisa Ryan, and Christina Herbert

Tatiana Hambro

Francesca Bodini

Trisha Gregory

Julia Brown

Annabelle Moehlmann and Marina Rutherfurd

DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA

HALLOWEEN PARTIES AT DOUBLES IN NEW YORK

Wendy Carduner and Couri Hay

Charles and Janis Cecil

Mark Walter

Elvis impersonators

Lindsey Coleman

Allie Michler Kopelman and Jill Kargman

Xana and Marc Lewinstein Eliza Vandenberg

Brooke Kennan

Sophie Moura

DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA

Jake Davies and Valesca Guerrand-Hermes

Patrick Alwyn and Chiara Collin-D'Augelli

Andrew Saffir, John Benjamin Hickey, and Daniel Benedict

John Slattery, Rami Malek, and Michael Shannon

Celia Weston

Sarah Himadeh and Margarita Levieva

Conor Coyne, Samantha Perelman, Orfeh, and Jeff Ayars

Grace Coddington and Tina Chai

Brooke and Richard Saperstein

James Vanderbilt

DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA

Robert Couturier and Jennifer Hurlein

Francine Crocker and Tara Milne

CeCe Black and Sebastian Smee

Elizabeth Hartnett

Cheryl Mckee

David Hayes, Carole Bellidora Westfall, and Christian Draz

Yvonna Russell

Stephanie Stokes and Margo Langenberg

Elizabeth Stribling

DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA

HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF PALM BEACH'S COCKTAIL PARTY IN NEW YORK

Amanda Starbuck Hanlan and Trey Hanlan

Frank Orenstein and Gail Worth

Tim Johnson and Fernando Wong

Andrew and Sarah Wetenhall

Catherine Loevner and Lisa Beek

John Shubin and Gus Dangremond

Ramona Singer and Jeremy Johnson

Ruth Miller and Sylvia Hemingway

Frank Sciame

Wishing you a joyous holiday season filled with warmth, love, and laughter.

DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA

HISPANIC MUSEUM & LIBRARY'S GALA IN NEW YORK

Daniel Romualdez and Alejandra Cicognani

Emily Frick

Christina Noble Sofía Palazueo and Giuseppe Savoni

Jennifer Santos

Estrellita and Daniel Brodsky

Ian Ferreyra De Bone and Nell Rebowe

May I HelpYou, Madame?

The Making of the Modern Department Store

Fall Exhibition on view November 11, 2025 - January 18, 2026

Explore the dynamic rise of the department store as an influential institution of modern urban life. Emerging in the 19th-century with the retail groundbreaker, Le Bon Marché, the department store quickly became a global phenomenon, re-shaping the landscape of commerce, architecture, gender roles, and public spaces. American versions, like Lord & Taylor, Bergdorf Goodman, and Wanamaker’s, adapted the conceptoffering an exciting blend of luxury, mass consumption and spectacle.

Underwritten by:

Postcard from Le Bon Marché, detail, c. 1900.

DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA

PEGGY ADAMS ANIMAL RESCUE LEAGUE'S 100TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION IN PALM BEACH

Peter and Connie Lacaillade

Tony and Diane Rutgers

Carole French and Susan Van Pelt

Lesly Smith, Walter Ross, and Danielle Moore Carol McCracken and Joanie Van der Grift

Jack and Sherri Grace Marianne Powers and Kelcee Corwin

Todd Fleming and Kati Erickson

Nellie Beniot with Dan and Denise Hanley

Ali Hanley and Emilia Fanjul Pfeifler

Chairmen

Dame Amanda Schumacher and Mr. Charles Schumacher

Honorary Chairmen Ambassadors

Her Excellency Dr. Petra Schneebauer, Ambassador of the Republic of Austria to the United States

The Honorable Art Fisher, Ambassador of the United States of America to the Republic of Austria

Global Heart Awards

National and International United Ambassadors Gala

A night of celebration to recognize National and International Ambassadors for their exceptional achievements and generous contributions to their countries.

Individual Ticket: $1,500

VIP Ticket: $2,500

Evening of Sunday, January 11, 2026

6:00 p.m.

The Breakers

Presents for the Palm Beach, Florida

Sponsorships Available RSVP: Courtney Leidy | 917.951.9027

TOLFevents@gmail.com

Formal Attire Black Tie treeoflifefi.org

Event proceeds benefit the global expansion of the Tree of Life Foundation International Resource Centers. Tree of Life Foundation International is a 501(c)(3) organization. Federal Tax ID #20-3857927. All donations are tax deductible by law. Florida State Registration Number: N05000011372

Photo Credit: Capehart

DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA

WALDORF ASTORIA'S GRAND OPENING IN NEW YORK

Emily and Charles Rockefeller

Daniel Boulud and Katherine Gage Boulud

Cynthia Rowley and Fred Castleberry

Aaron Paul

Elizabeth Gillies

Zanna Roberts Rassi and Samantha Barry Bailee Madison Marjorie Gubelmann

Arianna Huffington

Helena Glazer

“ “

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DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA

THE SOCIETY OF THE FOUR ARTS' KING FLING IN PALM BEACH

Vassilia Binensztok and Michael Davis

Ronald Rosenfeld and Warren Belmar

Anne Humnel, Kip O’Brien, and Robert Krause

Peter and Soraya Geisler

Brooke and Robert Murphy

Laura Johnston, Maria Von Bothmer, and Nancy Stratford

Daniel and Julie Riley

Elizabeth di Stefano and Cheryl McKee

Marko and Cynthia Remec

DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA

LUNCHEON BENEFITING THE FUND FOR IRISH AMERICAN SCHOLARS IN NEW YORK

Susan Burke and Ned Dukehart

Ramona Lambert, Andrea Dale, and Christina Frank

Karen Klopp, Gloria Fieldcamp, Kamie Lightburn, and Michele Heary

Kristina Gimbel, Zari Callahan, Evelyn Tompkins, and Maud Cabot

Erin Cunningham and Victor Geraci

Heather Leeds, Jamie MacGuire, Lavinia Snyder, and Tom Leeds

Mark Gilbertson and Kara Ross

Stephanie Loeffler and Robert O'Byrne

Chele Farley and Luke Walsh

1.5 MILLION Animals Cared for since 1925

As Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League celebrates a century of compassion, we’re focused on the future and building a community where every animal is safe, healthy, and loved. With the continued support of our donors, we’re expanding lifesaving programs, strengthening partnerships, creating innovative ways to serve pets and the people who care for them, and caring for over 35,000 animals each year. The next 100 years of lifesaving work starts now, and we couldn’t do it without you.

RUDY ALBERS

WEMPE

At Wempe, we believe that true luxury is defined not only by beauty and craftsmanship, but by integrity — understanding the story behind every piece you choose to wear. This philosophy is why we are proud to partner with ORIGIN by De Beers Group, making us among the first retailers in the United States to offer this extraordinary experience.

ORIGIN by De Beers Group brings complete transparency to the remarkable journey of each natural diamond — from the moment it is discovered in Botswana, Canada, Namibia, or South Africa, to when it reaches your hands. Each ORIGIN diamond carries a unique inscription and is registered on Tracr, the world’s leading digital platform for tracing natural diamonds from their source. With a simple scan of a QR code, clients can explore their diamond’s provenance and learn about the communities and environments it helps support.

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DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA

TEACHING MATTERS HOSTS LUNCHEON IN NEW YORK

Michael Flaster and Simone Mailman

Robbianne Makin, Jack Lynch, and Karen Klopp

Muriel Brandolini and Dana Creel

Libby Fitzgerald, Penny Ashford, and Peggy Bitler

Bruce Colley, Jackie Williams, Teresa Colley, and Zach Bacon

Ann Colley and Martha Farrell

Amanda Bacon, Chris Mailman, and Trevor Bacon

DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA

HOPE FOR DEPRESSION'S LUNCHEON IN NEW YORK

Hilary Geary Ross and Ellen Ward Scarborough

Bob Murray and Sharon Bush

Jamee Gregory

Skye Chambers Gruss, Audrey Gruss, and Amanda Gruss Kitty and Bill Mcknight

Danielle Bradley and Anne Fitzpatrick

Diana Morrison, Kim Heirston, and Janna Bullock

Alexandra Nicklas and Sylvia Hemingway

Audra McDonald and Susan Lucci

Huanjie Yuan and Margo Langenberg

DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA

SOCIETY OF MEMORIAL SLOAN KETTERING'S FALL PARTY IN NEW YORK

Alexandra Edwards and Marisa Van Bokhorst

Amanda Kahn, Alexandra Mack, Brooke Kennan, and Elizabeth Kurpis

Amory McAndrew

Claudia Overstrom and Melanie McLennan Rachel Lustgarten, Courtney Davis, and Johnathan Davis

Stephanie and Paul Stamas

Muffie Potter Aston and Christian Trunz

Molly Reilly and Julia Ferentinos

Lisa McCarthy, Alexandra Carr, and Alec Dunn

Julia Glade Bender

THE STORE at

This holiday season, explore The Store at MAD’s collection of unique gifts that celebrate the transformative power of materials, seamlessly blending art, design, and expert craftsmanship. As a Quest reader, enjoy 20% off all purchases—both in-store and online—through December 31, 2025. Simply mention QUEST LOVES MAD at checkout or use code QUEST20 online to redeem your savings!

Jonathan Adler, Rocket Decanters Collection. Photo: Courtesy of designer.

DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA

AMERICAN FRIENDS OF THE PARIS OPERA & BALLET'S GALA IN NEW YORK

Amy Kuehner and Suzanne Graves

Lisa Petrazzolo and Jane O’Connor

Betty Eveillard and Jeanne Hoefliger

Olivia Flatto

Brittany Levinson Maureen Footer and Rob Mcquilkin

Sutton Bryan and Katie Joyce

Aude Accary

Scott Miller and Mike Corbat

Donna Corbat, Hal Witt, and Denise Littlefield Sobel

DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA

Margo McKnight and Michele Kessler

Sam and Kim Younes

Michael and Nolan Greenwald

Scott and Whitney Hesse

Cori Lee and Jeffrey Berman

Steve and Joanna Sanders

Tony and Amanda Cummings

Carla and Terry Taylor

Hayley and Tyler Schapiro

Elizabeth and Wayne Safro

25 Colonel Sheldon Ln

Pound Ridge, NY

A MODERN MASTERPIECE

Impressive

Impeccably

Impeccably appointed

estate areas. Pool and Tennis Court.

IT SEEMS LIKE YESTERDAY

PRINCESS CAROLINE OF MONACO was already waiting for me at 9:00 a.m. when I arrived at the Palais Princier de Monaco to photograph her for the April 1986 cover of LIFE magazine. She was dazzling in a pink ball gown and a diamond tiara. Her sense of humor was amusing, too, as she told me with a straight face that she dressed that way for breakfast every day, as it was expected of her when she was at the palace. Then she smiled, and I knew we would have some fun that day.

The photograph in the snow was taken when the princess and her husband, Stefano Casiraghi, decided to get away for, and I quote, “a real family vacation” at a chalet in St. Moritz. At the time, Caroline and Stefano had been married for three years. They were both expert skiers and wanted to start teaching their son, Andrea, to ski while he was very young.

The pair were happy to pose for the photograph, as the story centered on Caroline, the elder daughter of legendary actress Grace Kelly, who became Princess Grace of Monaco when she married Prince Rainier III. It was a fairy tale invented by Hollywood that actually became a reality.

The young couple were very much in love when Stefano died tragically in a 1990 powerboat-racing accident while competing in the World Offshore Championship. Caroline withdrew from public life to raise their three small children.

Thirty-five years later, Princess Caroline now heads the Princess Grace Foundation and is happily awaiting the birth of her eighth grandchild. That makes me smile… It seems time flies by more quickly every month that I write this column, don’t you agree? u

Princess

1986.

HARRY BENSON

Caroline of Monaco and Stefano Casiraghi in St. Moritz,

Photographed by Harry Benson.

GOODBYE, DEAR ANNABEL

LADY ANNABEL GOLDSMITH left us last week at the age of 91. During Jane Austen’s time, their roles would have been reversed. She would have been Darcy, with Mark Birley and Sir James Goldsmith as Elizabeth Bennett. Both her husbands were wellborn but of inferior birth to her. I met her about sixty years ago, and she was as aristocratic as they come, and as down-to-earth as her puck-

ish irreverence would take her. A quick smirk and a raised eyebrow would turn into something prurient and funny.

Her two great loves were the two men she married and her six children. Her bad luck was that both men were terrific womanizers. Good women—and she was among the best—are known to forgive womanizers because womanizers tend to adore, understand, and worship their

wives. I happen to be speaking from experience.

I had the sad duty to write about the death of her firstborn, Rupert, off the African coast back in 1986 in The Spectator. She wrote me a thank-you note that was heartrending in its beauty and elegance. Rupert was the best-looking young man in England, and he and I became close buddies after I threatened him with a baseball

Clockwise from left: Lady Annabel with her daughter India Jane at Annabel’s nightclub; the dance floor at the original Annabel’s; Mark Birley.

bat. “Never come within fifty yards while I’m with a girl,” I warned him. He wrote and sent me books when I was staying with the Queen 41 years ago. I had the same problem with Zac many years later. Another great looker-I could not find the bat so I offered money.

Annabel’s temperament was almost oriental in its outward impassivity. Civility and basic respect for others were a must with her, but she was subtly provocative and had a wicked sense of humor. Wonderfully mischievous, she enjoyed revving it up when the Austro-Australian Princess Michael would complain about me at Annabel’s annual summer party. Annabel would listen to the Austrian,

that was rained out.

Asked by her son Robin what exactly Marie-Christine of Kent had against Taki, her reply was curt and to the point: “Does the ham like the knife?” She did better with Claus von Bulow, who was an old friend of hers before he was accused of trying to murder his rich wife in America. Claus was found not guilty on appeal. Old jokes by John Aspinall and Jimmy Goldsmith about Claus had surfaced, and the know-nothing press was writing terrible things about him. Claus’ godfather was not Goering, and he was certainly not a necrophile. “Aspers” had spread that particular tale because some had found Claus rather boring, so he “decided to

see was her other arm-index finger, to be exact—pointing to a large yellow pee spot on Claus’ trousers, in case anyone had missed it. It was a scene out of a Marx Brothers movie.

Annabel tended to befriend men and women who had many redeeming vices. So-called bad boys and naughty girls were never snubbed by her, but harsh, aggressive women spouting stupidities were not her cup of tea. Today’s so-called society hostesses suffer from an unquenchable craving for publicity. Annabel was the exact opposite.

then seek me out, come very close, and whisper: “The Kents simply adore you.” Her summer party, by the way, was the last of its kind. Annabel’s bash in her large and magnificent garden in Richmond mixed a few brainy types, journalists of the better kind, her young brood and their friends, a couple of dukes, playboys and politicians, and a rogue or two. Annabel had Lady Thatcher and Sir Dennis as regulars, and she made sure no lefty type embarrassed them. Not that there were many lefties around her house. She made a special effort for Lady Thatcher’s dinner neighbors; they had to be intelligent above all. The food and drink were as good as they get, and in all the years I attended I cannot remember a single one

give him some exotic glamour.” Oh well.

Gossip writers, especially left-wing ones, are notoriously petty and know very little, and took some of the outrageous jokes seriously. Poor Claus had been run out of New York because of his conduct during the trial—he had moved his mistress into his wife’s Fifth Avenue apartment, shocking the Yanks. Once back in London, not every door was wide-open to him. But Annabel’s certainly was. He was an old friend. I was there when she gave a coming-home party for him. It was a hot sunny day, we were all in our summer whites, and Claus was beaming as Annabel had her arm entwined with his, taking him around and introducing him. What he didn’t

Her grandest love and passion were her children, a rare trait among women of her class, but perhaps, like Rick in Casablanca, I’ve been misinformed. Robin, Jane, Zac, Jemima, and Ben will now face life without her. They will find it tough, but time will help.

What remains for me are those whispered memories of our youth and good times. She stood out in this heedless society of ours.

Goodbye, dear Annabel, and as we Greeks say, may the earth that covers you be soft. u

For more Taki, visit takimag.com.

Clockwise from left: Claus von Bülow appearing on After Dark in 1997; Sir James “Jimmy” Goldsmith; Robin Birley; Katharine, Duchess of Kent.

SWINGING INTO THE SEASON AT CASA DE CAMPO

THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, Casa de Campo Resort & Villas ushers in a time of renewal and celebration. The Dominican Republic’s most storied resort will soon unveil the restoration of its iconic Teeth of the Dog golf course—Pete Dye’s seaside masterpiece that has enchanted players for more than 50 years.

Recognized as one of the top golf resorts in the world, Casa de Campo will debut the refreshed course in mid-December, following an extensive project led by Jerry Pate Design. Dye’s original vision remains at the heart of the layout, where seven holes run dramatically along the Caribbean Sea. As Dye once quipped, “I created 11 holes, and God created seven.”

The restoration brings new life to this legend. The fairways have been regrassed with Dynasty Paspalum, the greens and bunkers reshaped, and the edges restored to Dye’s original contours. “We have been honored to work with Jerry Pate and his team to help us secure the incredible legacy Pete Dye created with Teeth of the Dog,” says Andres Pichardo Rosenberg, president of Casa de Campo. “We are so excited and honored to

take Pete’s masterpiece to the next level by completely restoring the integrity of his legendary course design,” adds Gilles Gagnon, longtime friend of Dye and Golf Director Emeritus. Jerry Pate notes, “Teeth of the Dog is truly one of the great courses in the world, and our noble job has been to preserve Pete’s legacy and iconic creation here at Casa de Campo for the generations to come.”

The reopening coincides with Casa de Campo’s most festive season. December brings the Christmas Inauguration Lighting Ceremony in Altos de Chavón, Santa’s Garden Inauguration, a Christmas Ballet Performance, and a lively End-of-Year Party with DJ Black Coffee. Guests will ring in 2026 at two glittering New Year’s Eve celebrations—one in Plaza Chavón with the Golden International Band, and another along the waterfront at La Marina.

Under the glow of the holidays and the return of a legend, Casa de Campo once again proves there’s no better place to celebrate the season. u

Views of Teeth of the Dog golf course and course designer, Pete Dye, on the tee of the 7th Hole in the early days.

Opposite page: Christmas Lighting Ceremony at Altos de Chavón.

A WORLD BEAUTIFULLY GATHERED

An ode to artistry, heritage, and the soulful eye behind Via Coquina.

STEPPING INTO VIA COQUINA feels less like entering a boutique and more like crossing a border—into sunlight, scent, and stories from distant shores. Conceived by Cara Polites Ferro, whose eye for beauty is guided by instinct and wanderlust, Via Coquina is a world curated not by geography but by feeling— where craftsmanship and memory converge in objects that are both timeless and transportive.

This season, Via Coquina invites us on a quiet passage across continents—tracing a thread of artistry that connects the Mediterranean to faraway lands, all united by a devotion to the handmade and the human touch.

From the cool courtyards of Tangier, the paintings of Myriam au Citron capture the poetry of Moroccan life—bustling souks, intimate kitchens, and the delicate choreography of daily rituals. Her work hums with color and nostalgia, transforming pattern and place into emotion. Recently added to the collection: rustic green-glazed pottery from the village of Tamegroute, unmistakable for its deep copper-oxide hue and barley-flour glaze. Each batch is uniquely fired in clay-built ovens on the edge

of the Sahara, making every piece singular and inimitable.

In Egypt, the story moves beyond sight to texture and touch. In the ancient textile centre of Akhmim, hand-woven linens carry a legacy more than 4,000 years old—each thread, a whisper from the Nile’s banks, each pattern a link to generations of artisans still working at traditional looms.

Nearby in Fayoum, pottery emerges from desert clay and palmtree biomass, shaped by earth, fire, and time. These vessels and glazes reflect the rhythms of oasis living and the resourcefulness of a region defined by its environment.

These fabrics and ceramics don’t just decorate space, they embody heritage, patience, and the human hand, and they add a rare depth and tactility to the Via Coquina world.

On Capri, beauty is effortless—sunlit gold, vibrant stones, and the unmistakable ease of la dolce vita. The island’s tradition of bold, sculptural jewelry lives alongside its iconic handmade sandals, crafted by local artisans and made famous by muses like Jackie O. At Via Coquina, these elements of Capri come together in pieces that capture the island’s glamour, warmth, and seaside elegance.

Teapot with Leather Handle ($395). Opposite page: Via Coquina’s Palm Beach storefront.

of Olinalá carve and paint lacquer boxes from fragrant lineage wood, using techniques passed down for generations. Their delicate carvings, traced with agate and jade, transform everyday objects into living relics of heritage. Newly arrived, a woven copper clutch from Oaxaca extends this spirit of craftsmanship, inspired by the region’s traditional copper wraps and handmade entirely by Oaxacan artisans.

In Greece, the spirit of craftsmanship feels eternal — golden light over whitewashed villages, the scent of olive groves, the quiet devotion to beauty in every gesture. It is this spirit that lives within Via Coquina’s Greek treasures. The fine jewelry of LALAoUNIS reflects the soul of Hellenic artistry—sculptural gold forms hand-crafted using classical techniques such as granulation and filigree. Each piece carries the essence of antiquity reimagined for the modern woman, a dialogue between history and contemporary elegance that perfectly embodies the world of Via Coquina.

In the quiet steppes of Mongolia, Saved NY cashmere reveals another form of luxury, whisper-soft, handspun by herders

whose artistry stretches back two millennia. These pieces carry warmth not only in their fibers, but in their spirit - reminders that refinement begins with respect for craft.

In India, craftsmanship takes on a lyrical form; woven, painted, and imagined by hand. From the looms of Kashmir to the ateliers of Rajasthan, centuries of textile artistry continue to evolve in unexpected ways. A collaboration between Madeline Weinrib and Kashmir Loom reinterprets traditional weaving through a contemporary lens, blending fine pashmina with modern design. Each piece carries the quiet mastery of artisans whose skill transforms wool into light, creating textiles that feel both rooted and renewed, a perfect reflection of Via Coquina’s global spirit.

And from the shores of Cape Town, Lucie de Moyencourt’s Shellegant wall shells bring the ocean indoors. Hand-sculpted and painted with a painter’s eye, each one a collectible work that captures the poetry and color of the sea.

Together, these treasures form more than a collection. They are the map of Via Coquina itself—a world beautifully gathered, where the essence of each place lives on through the hands that made it and the eye that brought it home. ◆

Clockwise from bottom left: Olinala Box in Cactus Print ($550); Cara Polites Ferro; Via Coquina LALAoUNIS Lionhead Knot Necklace ($17,780); Moroccan

REBIRTH OF A FLORIDA ICON: THE BOCA RATON

THERE ARE FEW places that capture the spirit of old Florida glamour quite like The Boca Raton, where Mediterranean Revival architecture and palm-lined promenades meet a thoroughly modern sense of indulgence. First opened in 1926 as the Ritz-Carlton Cloister Inn, the landmark resort has spent nearly a century redefining luxury on its 200-acre waterfront estate. Today, that legacy enters what the property calls its new golden era—a sweeping transformation that has revitalized every corner of this storied retreat.

Spread across five distinct hotels—the Cloister, Yacht Club, Beach Club, Tower, and Bungalows—The Boca Raton feels like a coastal village unto itself. Guests drift between lakefront and ocean by private water taxi, enjoying access to every amenity along the way: seven shimmering pools, a private half-mile of beach, the indulgent Spa Palmera, championship golf, racquet

and pickleball clubs, and an irresistible array of restaurants created in partnership with Major Food Group.

This season marks a milestone with the reopening of the Beach Club—one of the few truly private beach resorts in Palm Beach County. Following a $130 million redesign, the Beach Club now features 210 reimagined guest rooms and suites, many with terraces and sweeping ocean views, along with new restaurants, a refreshed lobby and cocktail lounge, a state-ofthe-art fitness center, and oceanfront event spaces.

“It’s designed for those who crave a fresh, modern take on luxury,” says Daniel A. Hostettler, President & CEO of The Boca Raton. “This next chapter builds on The Boca Raton’s storied legacy, inspiring generations of club members and global travelers who have shaped our vision for this transformation. The new Beach Club is more than just reimagined spaces—it’s

an experience that blends stunning design, bold culinary creativity, and the kind of hospitality that feels effortless but unforgettable.”

Led by General Manager Ekrem Koroglu, the Beach Club captures the rhythm of its seaside setting with light-filled inte riors, natural textures, and coral-hued accents. The hotel now boasts three times as many suites, including the Grand Suite + Lanai, where private outdoor lounges flow seamlessly from oneand two-bedroom layouts. Culinary highlights include Marisol, helmed by Michelin-award-winning chef Johnny Spero, serving Mediterranean-inspired fare in a breezy indoor-outdoor setting, and Onda, a new sand-side concept with rotating winter resi dencies by world-class chefs—debuting with Adriano Venturini of Eden Roc Cap Cana. Guests can sip creative cocktails at the Sand Bar or linger over espresso and aperitifs on the terrace of Living Room.

The Beach Club’s curated experiences range from sunrise yoga and sunset fire rituals to three pools, a Cabana Club by Vilebrequin, and Sorbetto, a whimsical floating Fiat 500 boat for cruising the Intracoastal. Families are not forgotten, with Banyan Bunch Beachside for children and the new Game Loft for teens.

The resort will also play host to the Second Annual Artisans Wine & Food Festival, presented with Napa Valley Vintners from January 15th through 18th. Over four days, guests will savor more than 20 culinary experiences—from intimate vint-

ner dinners to a lavish gala headlined by Chef Mario Carbone. The evening’s auction, dinner, after-party, and fireworks finale will benefit Place of Hope in Palm Beach County and the Napa Valley Vintners Youth Wellness Initiative.

A century after its debut, The Boca Raton continues to set the standard for coastal luxury with its radiant reinvention and a calendar brimming with world-class experiences. u

Clockwise from top left: The Artisans Wine & Food Festival, 2025; Charity Auction & Gala, 2025; poolside at the Beach Club; cabana at the Beach Club. Opposite page, from above: Exterior view of The Cloister; al fresco dining at Onda.

MARVEL MASTERPIECES AVENGERS: ASPREY STUDIO COLLECTION

BY JAYNE CHASE

AS CHILDREN, we spent hot summer days and rainy afternoons lost in the endlessly fascinating Marvel Universe, escaping into worlds where good triumphed over evil, powerful superhuman beings reigned, and every twist and turn kept us turning the page. Each story featured characters who were flawed yet relatable; their adventures were set in the real world and resonated with readers everywhere. Whether you loved a series from the start, like the Fantastic Four, or came of age with Spider-Man, X-Men, and Captain America, Marvel’s stories forged lifelong bonds between readers and their heroes.

For more than 60 years, Marvel comics have mirrored popular culture and reflected the changing world around us. Since the first comic was published in 1961, the Marvel legacy has become a global phenomenon, continuing to inspire fans and welcome new ones. Now, London’s Asprey Studio—a contemporary art gallery, atelier, and members’ club dedicated to exploring the convergence of digital and physical mediums—honors that legacy, bringing iconic Marvel characters to life in exquisite sterling silver sculptures paired with collectible digital art.

The full collection debuts with two private events in London and New York, further showcasing the collaboration with exhibitions planned in New Delhi, Dubai, and Tokyo. “Each character will be offered as a handcrafted sterling silver sculpture with a corresponding digital artwork,” crafted by Asprey Studio. From Captain America and Iron Man to Black Panther, the sterling

silver statues celebrate and explore Marvel’s artistic roots as well as Asprey’s artisan legacy, which dates back to the 1800s. “Created for collectors of art, comic culture, and rare objects, the collection reflects a shared respect for innovation and cultural roots, pop culture, and tradition.”

Each sculpture is handcrafted by Asprey Studio’s master silversmiths at the Asprey Studio Atelier in Kent, England, and combines traditional silversmithing with modern techniques. The corresponding digital artwork can be accessed using the Ethereum blockchain and is hand-sculpted and animated frame by frame by the Studio’s creative team, using Marvel’s deep archive of comic books as their foundation to reimagine the characters in 3D.

Alastair Walker, Creative Director of Asprey Studio, explains, “Working closely with Marvel, we wanted to retain the soul of each character as well as their appearance as closely as possible. Each digital artwork is alive and moves very subtly and unpredictably, so we wanted it to look slightly different each time you see it. Then each piece is paired with a beautifully crafted silver sculpture, creating a collection with heightened rarity and added value for our collectors.”

Asprey Studio, along with its private club membership, “fosters dialogue within an international community of collectors and cultural leaders.” With gallery spaces in Mayfair and Kent, these dynamic collaborations continue to attract global attention as Asprey and Asprey Studio push the boundaries of art, craftsmanship, and innovation. u

Clockwise from top left: Giant Man, from the Marvel Masterpieces Avengers Asprey Studio Collection; inside the Asprey Studio Gallery in Mayfair; Asprey Studio logo; Hulk; Black Panther. Opposite page, from above: Alastair Walker, Asprey Studio’s Chief Creative Officer, at the Asprey Studio Gallery.

DECEMBER

Christmas Spectacular starring the Radio City Rockettes will be presented at Radio City Hall in New York through January 5th. To purchase tickets, visit rockettes.com.

CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR

Christmas Spectacular starring the Radio City Rockettes is an annual musical holiday stage show presented at Radio City Music Hall in New York. Tickets available for showings through January 5th at rockettes.com.

THE NUTCRACKER

Through January 4th, New York City Ballet will present George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker at David H. Koch Theater. The production is one of the most complex theatrical, staged ballets in the company’s active repertory. The popularity of the ballet is immense and it provides an unforgettable spark to everyone’s holiday season. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit nycballet.com.

UNICEF GALA

UNICEF will host its annual gala at Cipriani 25 Broadway in New York. The evening will shine a light on the remarkable strength of children and showcase UNICEF

heroes who make the seemingly impossible possible – relentlessly pursuing a world where every child

is healthy, educated, protected, and respected. For more information, visit unicefusa.org.

On December 9th, the Stephen & Christine Schwarzman Animal Medical Center (AMC) will host its annual Top Dog Gala at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York. For more information, visit amcny.org.

WORTH AVENUE CHRISTMAS

The Worth Avenue Holiday Tree

Lighting ceremony will take place in Palm Beach. Santa and his elves will begin the parade at 6:10 p.m. on the 100 block of Worth Avenue. Santa will light the tree at 6:25 p.m. For more information, visit worth-avenue.com.

TREE LIGHTING NYC

The 2025 Rockefeller Center

Christmas Tree lighting will take place from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. in New York. The public can watch the ceremony from Rockefeller Plaza. For more information, visit rockefellercenter.com.

SURFBOARD SURPRISE

The Royal Poinciana Plaza in Palm Beach will host its “Holiday Reveal” tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. The evening will feature bites, music, and the unveiling of the Surfboard Tree: a playful reflection of the LOEWE Holiday collection, inspired by Louis Wain. For more information, visit theroyalpoincianaplaza.com.

Through January 4th, New York City Ballet will present George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker at David H. Koch Theater. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit nycballet.com.

HAVANA NIGHTS

Center for Family Services will hold its Havana Nights benefit at Palm House in Palm Beach at 6 p.m., transporting you to the vibrant streets of Havana. For more information, visit ctrfam.org.

ROYAL SAVOY BALL

The American Foundation of Savoy Orders will hold the 28th annual Royal Savoy Ball in New York, honoring Robert F. and Francesca Agostinelli for their dedicated support of the American-Italian Cancer Foundation (AICF), the beneficiary of this year’s Gala. AICF funds vital programs, including mobile, no-cost breast cancer screenings and fellowships supporting promising Italian cancer research scientists. For more information, visit savoy-foundation-usa.org.

MIRACLE ON MADISON

The Society of Memorial Sloan Kettering will host its 39th Annual Miracle on Madison Avenue. 20% of every purchase made at participating boutiques, restaurants, and galleries will benefit The Society of MSK’s pediatric programs at MSK Kids. For more information, visit giving. mskcc.org.

TOP DOG GALA

The Stephen & Christine Schwarzman Animal Medical Center will hold its annual Top Dog Gala at Cipriani 42nd Street. This year’s Gala will be especially meaningful, as it will also celebrate the opening this Fall of AMC’s newly expanded and renovated hospital — a transformative upgrade that was envisioned and championed under Bobby’s leadership. Contributions to Top Dog are essential to enable AMC to pursue our dual mission of providing world-class and collaborative care to animals and leading the advancement of veterinary medicine through innovative clinical research and education. For more information, visit amcny.org.

PEEGY ADAMS BALL

Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League will host its annual Christmas Ball at the Sailfish Club at 7 p.m. The evening, which will help celebrate the organization’s Centennial Jubilee, will feature cocktails, dinner, and dancing. By invitation. For more information, visit peggyadams.org.

NEWPORT HOLIDAYS

The Preservation Society of Newport

begins with passed hors d’oeuvres and cocktails amid festive holiday décor. Guests will be seated for a delightful four-course dinner in the Great Hall and State Dining Room, followed by dancing in the exquisite Music Room. For more information, visit newportmansions.org.

JANUARY

9 HERO DOG AWARDS

American Humane Society will host its Hero Dog Awards in Palm Beach at 6 p.m. The event celebrates heroic dogs across categories (Therapy Dogs; Service & Guide/Hearing Dogs; Military Dogs; Law Enforcement & First Responder Dogs; Emerging Hero/ Shelter Dogs). For more information, visit americanhumane.org.

RED CROSS BALL

County will hold its annual Holiday Dinner Dance at The Breakers at 7 p.m. This black-tie evening

The 65th International Red Cross Ball will take place at The Breakers Palm Beach at 6:30 p.m. This historic event brings together global ambassadors, distinguished guests, and our nation’s military in an unforgettable evening of elegance and philanthropy. For more information, visit redcross.org.

On December 11th,

Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League in Palm Beach will host its annual Christmas Ball. For more information, visit peggyadams.org.

QUE ST

QUE ST HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

1. TAMARA COMOLLI MIKADO Flamenco Armband mit Diamond Pavé in 18k rose gold. Price upon request at us.tamaracomolli.com. 2. Claridge’s, the legendary Mayfair hotel in London, recently unveiled an exclusive collection of 18ct gold charms inspired by some of the most cherished and beloved signature symbols from the hotel. Designed by renowned British designer Annoushka Ducas MBE, the seven-piece handcrafted ‘Life in Charms’ series includes Claridge’s icons. Prices start at $3,500. Visit shop.claridges.co.uk. 3. Dom Pérignon Rosé Vintage 2010, a limited edition bottle designed with iconic Japanese contemporary artist Takashi Murakami. $500 at select liquor stores. 4. Vanessa Noel’s YumYum in Red. $1,375 at vanessanoel. com or in store at 158 East 64th Street, New York. 5. Hamilton Jewelers’ 18k Gold and Diamond 36.86 Total Weight Flex Bracelet. $85,000 at hamiltonjewelers.com. Opposite page: 1. Verdura Sun Earclips. $32,500 at Greenleaf & Crosby’s Palm Beach boutique at 236 Worth Avenue. Visit greenleafcrosby.com for more information. 2. Rolex A new version of the Oyster Perpetual Datejust 31 in 18 ct yellow gold with a red ombré dial. Price upon request at rolex.com. 3. Oscar de la Renta Mother of Pearl Embroidered High-Low Gown. $19,390 at oscardelarenta.com.

1. Shreve, Crump & Low’s 27.11 Total Carat Weight Octogonal Emerald and 16.86 Total Carat Weight G/VS Diamond Two Tone Necklace. $160,000 at shrevecrumpandlow.com.

2. Eighth Day’s limited edition Ultimate Hydration Collection is presented in a giftable bag filled with the Resurfacing Tonic, Regenerative Serum, and Ultra-Rich Intensive Moisturizer. $290 at eighthdayskin.com. 3. Dinadecor’s Geo Matte Black Tall vase. $300 at thestore.madmuseum.org. 4. Hermès Sellier change tray in Vert. $800 at hermes.com.

1 3 6

1. LALAoUNIS 18k Yellow Gold Earrings. $16,300 at viacoquina. com. 2. Pragnell’s Sundance Heartshape 0.20ct Diamond Set Tennis Bracelet in 18ct Yellow Gold. $7,830 at pragnell. co.uk. 3. Nestled in Via Mizner on Worth Avenue, Renato’s Palm Beach impresses in every way, making it the perfect restaurant for any special occasion. Visit renatospalmbeach.com. 4. Portage Foods’ Caviar & Smoked Salmon Set. $110 at portagefoods.com. 5. Wempe BY KIM Blue Ring in 18k rose gold with diamonds. $13,595 at wempe. com. 6. J.McLaughlin’s Kelly Sequin Skirt ($298), Isobel Pony Hair Belt in Leopard ($168), Nova Faux Fur Scarf ($98), Sloane Shirt ($198), and the Natasha Slingback Heels ($288). Visit jmclaughlin.com.

1. Enjoy special Holiday Savings at Casa de Campo Resort & Villas and celebrate the season in the Domincan Republic. Starting room rates from $599, $4,049 per Garden or Classic villas, or $936 per Premier Suites per night. Valid for travel between December 19th and January 3rd. For more information, visit casadecampo.com.do. 2. Asprey’s Stag Champagne Cooler in Sterling Silver. $19,000 at asprey.com. 3. BACARDÍ Gran Reserva Diez. $40 at shop.bacardi.com. 4. Ralph Lauren Home’s Kipton Mixologist Box Gift Set. $4,995 at ralphlauren.com. 5. Patek Philippe Annual Calendar, 38mm in 18k rose gold. Ref. 4946R-001. Price upon request at patek.com. 6. Brunello Cucinelli’s Jacket ($4,900), Pinstripe Trousers ($1,300), Shirt ($1,070), Pocket Square ($320), Belt ($3,000), and Shoes ($1,500). Visit shop.brunellocucinelli.com.

QUE ST HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

1. Stubbs & Wootton’s Teddy Chestnut Bouclé Slippers in Brown. $625 at stubbsandwootton.com. 2. For the holiday season, Trudon’s Christmas Tree candle lights up the sky with festive constellations gilded in warm gold. $160 at trudon.com. 3. Barton & Gray Mariners Club offers an assortment of membership options. Members enjoy a lifetime of yachting with the ability to adjust their membership and take advantage of the ever-expanding harbors and new yachts being added to the club. Visit bartonandgray.com. 4. Santa’s new sleigh is here. The most powerful Bentley SUV ever! The 2026 Bentayga Speed. Order yours now at BramanBentleyPalmBeach.com.

5. Naval signal light/spotlight in satin nickel finish on adjustable tripod stand. Unique electrified model includes flaps for signaling Morse code. $3,375 at LindaHorn.com.

6. Saint-Louis Crystal’s Prestige Sky Blue Chess Set. $34,330 at saint-louis.com.

1. In Flammarion’s Chanel: Her Intimate World, expert Isabelle Fiemeyer offers a rare, deeply personal look into the life of the iconic designer Coco Chanel. $50 at rizzolibookstore.com. 2. Return to the Sky by Tina Morris tells the surprising story of how one woman and seven eaglets helped restore the bald eagle. $28 at chelseagreen.com. 3. In the memoir, Jorie: The Extraordinary Life of Jorie Butler Kent, Visionary and Philanthropist, the story of family and its traditions are told. $95 at pointedleafpress.com. 4. To Rescue the American Spirit by Bret Baier offers a fresh and fascinating exploration of the extraordinary life of Teddy Roosevelt, revealing how his bold leadership thrust America onto the world stage and changed the course of world history. $30 at amazon. com. 5. Entertaining in Style by Jane Churchill and Emily Astor showcases timeless recipes and inspirations for the perfect party from cousins Nancy Astor and celebrated interior designer Nancy Lancaster. $40 at amazon.com. 6. A gripping psychological thriller, Best Boy by Deborah Goodrich Royce teeters on the knife-edge of memory and identity when the arrival of a shocking letter threatens the carefully constructed life of a woman desperate to outrun her past. $28 to pre-order at amazon.com.

7. A collection of photographs and drawings by Brigitte Niedermair, revealing the hidden workings of her enduring and powerful artistic collaboration with the House of Dior. $150 at rizzolibookstore.com. 8. Assouline’s Chic Dogs showcases our four-legged friends not just as pets but as true stars of history and culture. $120 at assouline.com. 9. The Last Alpha Male: The Amorous Pursuits and High Life of a Poor Little Greek Boy is the latest—and perhaps greatest—offering from Taki Theodoracopulos. $40 at passage.press. 10. Back in print, this classic book offers Ricky Lauren’s ideas for entertaining, cooking, and living by the sea. $55 at ralphlauren.com. 11. A celebration of the many breeds of dog we love, as seen through the pages of Country Life magazine. $65 at anthropologie.com.

1. Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens in West Palm Beach respresent a commitment to conservation and the preservation of a quiet retreat in the midst of a burgeoning city. To purchase tickets, visit ansg.org. 2. Illustrated with the holiday’s most iconic candy, Dear Annabelle’s Candy Cane Notecards are the perfect way to send holiday love in the mail. $80 at dearannabelle. com. 3. Elevate your elegance with Elizabeth Gage’s sparkling pair of 18ct yellow gold Persian Queen earrings. $27,000 at elizabeth-gage.com. 4. MarieBelle’s 100-piece Holiday Chocolate Ganache. $325 at mariebelle.com. 5. Charlotte Kellogg’s Laurel Silk Jacket in Burnt Orange ($375) and the slim cut silk stretch pants in white ($350). Visit charlottekellogg. com. 6. Claire Florence’s Solid 18k Gold Stacking Ring with Emerald Green. $5,980 at claireflorence.com.

1. The Old World Christmas Nutcracker Collection includes six glass blown ornaments: Sugar Plum Fairy, Pair of Ballet Slippers, Clara, Mouse King, Nutcracker Prince, and Drosselmayer. $100 at oldworldchristmas.com. 2. Left: Bonpoint’s Jin Black Velvet Headband ($120), Emelia White Blouse ($295), Teo Black Velvet Jacket ($675), Panice Long Skirt with Polka Dot Print ($745), and Janette Black Leather Ankle Boot ($425).

Right: Bonpoint’s Tomas Brown Corduroy Jacket ($585), Timote Brown Corduroy Pants ($585), and Aristotle White Collar Shirt ($325). Visit us.bonpoint.com. 3. Little Kid’s & Kid’s Maserati Ghibli 12V Car in Red by Best Ride on Cars. $299 at saksfifthavenue.com. 4. Babyark’s Smart Convertible Car Seat features intelligent app connection and smart sensors that simplify and reassure for your peace of mind. $990 at babyark.com. 5. Madame Alexander’s Christmas Deer 8-inch Collectible Doll. $167 at madamealexander.com. 6. Polo Ralph Lauren’s Cashmere Beanie & Bootie Set. $150 at ralphlauren.com. 7. Odin Parker’s Central Park Wooden Music Box. $120 at odinparker.com.

1. The Lusille carpet in Olive from STARK features a geometric design crafted from luxurious wool. Pricing available at starkcarpet.com. 2. Tucked away on quiet South Summer Street in Edgartown village, The Charlotte Inn in Martha’s Vineyard is exquisitely appointed with fine art, English antiques, luxurious linens, and fresh flowers—a romantic reflection of a bygone era. Visit thecharotteinn.com. 3. Polo Ralph Lauren’s Ralph & Ricky Tuxedo Bear Sweater. $498 at ralphlauren.com. 4. The Tragedy of Lord George eau de parfum by Penhaligon’s. $345 at penhaligons.com.

5. Experience The Metropolitan Opera HD Live Performance (on screen) at The Four Arts in Palm Beach. Book your tickets for $30 for the showing of Andrea Chénier on December 13th at 1 p.m. at Walter S. Gubelmann Auditorium. Visit fourarts.org. 6. These Beth Ladd block print pouches are as practical as they are beautiful—just like life at The Colony. $145 at thecolonyedit.com.

1. Treat yourself to a winter escape at Ocean House, Rhode Island’s only AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five-Star hotel, perched on the bluffs of Watch Hill. Enjoy luxurious rooms, gourmet dining, ocean views, and seasonal events, all with cozy New England charm for an unforgettable holiday getaway. For reservations, visit OceanHouseRI.com.

2. Pelimingo’s Palm Beach Ladybug Collar. This necklace is sure to bring luck and love this holiday season! Adorably adorned with the lucky ladybug. 14k 3mm omega combined with the diamond and opal ladybug Peridot and diamond lab-grown accents. $7,400 at pelimingopalmbeach.com. 3. Hand embroidered bodice with a silk gazar ball skirt by Dennis Basso. Available in six colors. $8,390 at Dennis Basso’s showroom at 53 East 58th Street, New York. 4. Stop by The Royal Poinciana Plaza in Palm Beach for exceptional holiday shopping! For the season, its iconic surfboard Christmas tree will be on display. Visit theroyalpoincianaplaza.com. 5. A blend of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, this Chilean VIK wine is designed to age for decades or enjoy in its vibrant youth. $150 at select liquor stores or vikwine.net.

Christmas Cheer Through Parties Past

BY HILARY GEARY ROSS

OOOH YES —IT’S THAT magical, glorious time of year again! Christmas trees are multiplying like paparazzi flashbulbs— lining up on Park Avenue, popping up overnight on Worth Avenue in Palm Beach, lighting up all the grand rooms of the White House, and glowing in just about every house, with ribboned wreaths on each front door. Holiday fêtes are in fullblown swing, Dom Pérignon corks are flying, and the social calendar is on overload. And I love it!!

There’s nothing quite like a Christmas party, especially when

Santa himself is on the guest list—as he reliably is at Ann Hearst, Jay McInerney, and George Farias’s wonderfully traditional drinks party (a party so polished it practically sleighs itself, ha!! ha! or better yet ho!! ho!), and at the ever-enchanting soirées of the divine Lauren Veronis.

Like the presents under the tree, Christmas parties come in all shapes and sizes. Some are grand and glittering—think Ann, Jay, and George’s cocktail bash, where the laughter and champagne flow while you chat with so many friends. Others

1. Patricia Murray Ney and Hilary Geary Ross 2. Ross family gingerbread house 3. Nick Forstmann with Santa at a Veronis Christmas party 4. Barbara Walters with Santa at a Veronis party 5. A Ross holiday dinner

are small seated dinners—like Lauren Veronis’s holiday parties. Well, “legendary” feels almost too modest a description of any of Lauren’s parties.

Anyone who’s been lucky enough to attend one (or has supported the Irvington House at her famed Through the Kitchen party at The Grill, formerly the Four Seasons) knows the drill: glamour, laughter, and impeccable taste, served with a wink. Her décor alone is equal parts fabulous, funny, and joyfully over-the-top.

Lauren’s signature humor shines through every little detail. One imagines her accompanying Santa on his rounds, arm in arm, offering sage counsel and giggling over which presents will draw the biggest laughs. Naturally, her apartment transforms into a Christmas wonderland—complete with nutcrackers,

mistletoe, and a perfectly timed chorus of Salvation Army singers just before dessert. And just when you think the night has reached peak merriment, a booming “Ho! Ho! Ho!” fills the room. Santa arrives, sack in tow, ready to deliver gifts to each and every guest—and each one is wickedly, wonderfully hilarious. Lauren’s soirées aren’t just parties; they’re love letters to the season and to her friends.

Nothing is sweeter than family Christmas celebrations, and Emmy Award–winning television star Deborah Norville and her husband, Karl Wellner, usually spend Christmas Eve at home. Deb puts up three fully decorated live trees, lights all the fireplaces, and decks the halls to the nth degree! Her favorite tree is the one in the dining room, which is filled with Swedish Christmas ornaments. Their Christmas dinner—served on

1. Pauline Pitt with Santa at a Veronis party 2. Steve Schwarzman and Bret Baier at a Ross party 3. Leonard and Evelyn Lauder at a Ross party 4. Rupert Murdoch at a Veronis party 5. Howard Kessler and Bob Kraft at a Ross party 6. John Veronis and Vernon Jordan at a Veronis party 7. Eloise Geary at a Pickett party 8. Dominick Dunne with santa at a Veronis party

1. First Lady Melania and President Donald Trump with Hilary Geary and Wilbur Ross at a Ross party 2. Blaine Trump and Steve Simon at a Ross party 3. Lynda Carter and Richard LeFrak at a Ross party 4. Rocket Man at a party celebrating Wilbur Ross’ birthday and Christmas

5. White House gingerbread house at The White House 6. President Donald and First Lady Melania Trump with Wilbur Ross and Jane Churchill at a Ross party

Harry Benson and Dolly Geary at a Ross party 4. John and Brett Pickett at a Pickett party 5. Lally Weymouth and Dixon Boardman at a Ross party 6. Former Prime Minister of Canada Brian Mulroney and Hilary Geary Ross at a Ross party 7. Roone Arledge with Santa at a Veronis party 8. Michael Bloomberg at a Veronis party

Christmas Eve, as is her Swedish husband’s tradition—is always the same: herring and gravlax, Julshinka (Swedish ham), Hasselback potatoes, and lots of Aquavit, accompanied by Swedish drinking songs! Deborah says, “It’s a joyful time, made more so when my table is filled with family and friends.”

Years ago, the 21 Club was the place to go for Christmas celebrations, but that slot has since been replaced by Doubles. Wendy Carduner, the masterful owner, orchestrates the Doubles’ super-popular luncheons. Most of the guests wear their favorite red suits as a nod to the season and to the festive mood Wendy sets with her extraordinary decorations. She covers her club with Santas, reindeer, snowmen, nutcrackers, lights, colored bulbs galore—and the dessert buffet is filled with truly irresistible treats.

Each year, Joan Schnitzer jets up from Texas to catch up with her pals, hosts two back-to-back lunches there, and it is always a treat to see darling Joan! I always leave humming, “It certainly feels like Christmas.”

Now, as much as I love going to Christmas parties, I love giving them too—especially when I toast my husband Wilbur’s birthday at the same time. That’s what I call festive efficiency. Each year brings a new twist: sometimes it’s a cozy dinner with close friends and family, while other times it’s a full-blown bash with an El Morocco–the legendary nightclub–theme. There’s nothing better than celebrating life and love!

So here’s to the hosts, the guests, of course Santa, and every twinkling light that keeps us all merry and bright. Merry Christmas!! ◆

1. Julia and David Koch at a Ross party 2. Steve Wynn and jo Carole Lauder at a Ross party 3.

A New York Holiday

'Tis the season in Manhattan, and these are

BY BROOKE KELLY MURRAY

Christmas at the members-only Doubles Club in The Sherry-Netherland is one of Old New York’s most cherished holiday traditions. Each year, the club’s owner, Wendy Carduner, welcomes members and their guests to a month of festive celebrations, surrounded by her signature over-the-top decorations. The most iconic of these gatherings are the Christmas luncheons—held over nine days beginning December 2nd—complete with a magnificent dessert display that rivals the club’s eye-catching décor. Throughout December, Doubles also hosts its whimsical Polar Bear Buffet dinner (transporting guests straight to the North Pole), a Christmas dinner-dance with a live orchestra, Jingle Bell–themed buffet luncheons, the “Glitter, Glitter, Glitter Associates Party,” a joyful “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town” celebration for children, and a New Year’s Eve party to close out the season.

ANNIE WATT

Clockwise from bottom left: Jeanne Siegel, Martha Kramer, Judy Ney, Jamee Gregory, Jackie Weld Drake, Joan Schnitzer, Grace Meigher, and Mai Hallingby at a Christmas luncheon; view of the Doubles holiday décor; Wendy Carduner with Santa Claus.

The

Peninsula

212.956.2888 • 700 5th Avenue

Guests of The Peninsula can enjoy a host of beloved holiday traditions—spirited musical performances, children’s surprises, and opportunities to share cheer with the wider community—alongside enticing new culinary offerings. This year brings seasonal dining across the hotel’s restaurants, including a Festive Traditional Afternoon Tea, a Christmas Eve Feast, a Christmas Day Buffet, and a glamorous New Year’s Eve Rooftop Party. The hotel also debuts Chesa, a chalet-inspired pop-up at Pen Top that transports guests to the Swiss Alps with cozy décor, fondue, and themed cocktails overlooking the Manhattan skyline. For a magical afternoon, the NYBG Holiday Train Afternoon Tea returns, presented in collaboration with the New York Botanical Garden. Featuring whimsical train-themed delights and festive flavors, each tea includes admission to the Holiday Train Show and supports the New York Children’s Center.

The Lowell Hotel

212.838.1400 28 East 63rd Street

Just steps from Central Park and the boutiques of Madison and Fifth Avenues, The Lowell becomes a winter retreat after a day of shopping, sightseeing, or skating beneath the Rockefeller Center tree. Guests return to suites featuring one of Manhattan’s rarest luxuries: real wood-burning fireplaces, lit on request with a curated selection of aromatic logs to suit any mood. For a truly personal celebration, suites can be decorated with bespoke Christmas trees and custom stockings for both adults and children. At Majorelle, festive menus elevate the season with classics such as Beef Wellington, interpreted with the restaurant’s signature French sophistication.

COURTESY OF THE LOWELL HOTEL

The Carlyle

212.744.1600 • 35 East 76th Street

At the corner of Madison and 76th Street, The Carlyle comes alive during the holiday season. Families can enjoy Madeline’s Tea, featuring seasonal treats, live piano, and the storybook charm of Bemelmans Bar—where evening guests can also enjoy live music by resident artists late into the night. Christmas Tea at The Gallery offers holiday pâtisserie and savory indulgences served in a warm, wintry setting. The Carlyle’s beloved Christmas Carols return as well, with performances throughout December in the lobby.

from left: The

Amaranth

212.980.6700 • 21 East 62nd Street

Amaranth has long been an Upper East Side favorite, known for its Mediterranean, Italian, and French flavors. Its fresh seafood and inventive pastas have earned the restaurant a devoted following. The warm, classic setting makes it an ideal destination for lunch or dinner with family—especially during the holidays, when wreaths and red lights complement its iconic crimson awning. Guests can also enjoy an extensive wine list, timeless cocktails, and decadent desserts, from Mixed Berries to Profiteroles and Warm Flourless Chocolate Cake.

Clockwise

lobby; Bemelmans Bar; private dining at Dowling’s.

From left: Amaranth during the holidays; beloved “Santas” Sal and Luca.

The Mark Hotel

St. Regis

Since its founding by John Jacob Astor more than a century ago, The St. Regis New York has stood as a Manhattan icon—and during the holidays, the landmark hotel shines brighter than ever. Its storied guestrooms and grand public spaces, from the King Cole Bar to La Maisonette, keep guests coming back year after year. This season, the hotel welcomes back its celebrated partnership with Ladurée, the beloved Parisian patisserie. Guests entering the Fifth Avenue flagship are greeted by shimmering garlands, velvet bows, and a spectacular 12-foot Ladurée holiday tree adorned with oversized macarons in gold, cream, and peacock blue. Macaron pyramids fill the windows, while a signature Ladurée cart offers a picture-perfect moment in the lobby. As part of the collaboration, La Maisonette will host a Ladurée Holiday Afternoon Tea—featuring signature macarons, Eugénie biscuits, and the iconic Marie-Antoinette tea blend—served in the hotel’s salon through January 2nd.

212.744.4300 25 East 77th Street

Throughout December, The Mark is offering a two-night package filled with holiday cheer. The hotel’s famed 10,000-square-foot Penthouse is transformed into a private family wonderland, complete with personalized stockings hung by the fireplace, a Christmas tree adorned with handpicked ornaments from Bergdorf Goodman, and even a private performance of The Nutcracker. Guests can skate under the stars on the Penthouse’s exclusive rooftop rink—one of the most magical views in Manhattan. On Christmas Day, The Mark will be offering a Three Course Prix-fixe Menu for $248 per person and $124 for children under 10. On the street level, The Mark’s celebrated Grand Cru Hot Chocolate returns to the hotel’s Hot Dog Cart.

The Polo Bar

212.207.8562 • 1 East 55th Street

One of the most coveted reservations in New York, Ralph Lauren’s The Polo Bar is treasured for its classic American comfort food, expertly crafted cocktails, and warm, clubby interiors of rich wood paneling, equestrian art, and leather banquettes. Longtime favorites—Pigs in a Blanket, the Polo Bar Burger, and the Coconut Cake—keep guests returning season after season. This holiday, The Polo Bar debuts the limited-edition Ridgway Menu, inspired by the Fall/Holiday ’26 campaign and the romance of wide-open landscapes and star-filled skies. Offered alongside the regular dinner menu, the Ridgway offerings include the bold ’Ol Pal cocktail, a Coffee–Chili Rubbed Grilled Tomahawk Steak, and the Rocky Mountain Sundae.

The Polo Bar decorated for the season with the incomparable Nelly Moudime, Head Maître d,’ and her talented team.

WILL “21” RETURN IN ’26? STAY TUNED!

BY AUDAX

AT THE TENDER AGE of 19, New York City College student Terry Dinan was given a summer internship at “21” by one of its owners, Jerry Berns. Over the next 26 years, he rose to become vice president of the fabled saloon and its unofficial chief historian.

The origins of the 21 Club were at a speakeasy called Jack and Charlie’s at 42 West 49th Street that opened in 1930. When that joint was evicted to make way for Rockefeller Center, the owners paid cash for a brownstone at 21 West 52nd Street, then known as “Swing Street” for its many nightclubs. The owners aspired to serve only the finest food and beverages, to attract the most select of the carriage trade, and to treat their customers as royalty.

Not that there were never tensions. One day in the 1970s, Revlon CEO Ronald Perelman complained to Terry about being seated in a relative Siberia despite coming from Main Line Philadelphia, wearing Morty Sills suits, and having a net worth of $5 million. Terry pointed to the three front-room tables, where Daniel K. Ludwig ($7 billion), Jack Kent Cooke ($800 million), and Charles Allen ($3 billion) were seated. That ended the discussion.

The restaurant truly functioned like a club, with over 80% of the clientele holding house accounts in the pre–credit card era. The walls were filled with Frederic Remington paintings and sculptures, and the main bar was 40 feet long, later joined by another, somewhat shorter bar in the front room that became a popular gathering spot as well.

Famous customers abounded. One day Alfred Hitchcock sat at his table so that he could see his guest as she entered. A lady at the next table cried out, “Sir, you are sitting on my hat.” It took the portly Hitchcock some time and considerable effort to extract the hat from beneath his ample posterior and present it to its owner, gallantly saying, “Here, madam, you now not

Clockwise from top left: The 21 Club’s beloved interior; Marilyn Monroe celebrated her film The Seven Year Itch at the 21 Club, 1954; Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Frank Sinatra, and bodyguard Jilly Rizzo arriving at the 21 Club after his New York City concert, 1975; workers outside of the 21 Club during the pandemic, vowing to return in December of 2020; Leonard Lauder and more dining at “21.” Opposite page, from above: Entrance of the 21 Club at 21 West 52nd Street, New York; Terry Dinan and Bruce Snyder, “21” Vice Presidents, judicious Gatekeepers, and dear pals to their “regulars.”

only have a hat but also a souvenir.”

Other celebrities included David Niven, whose first job in America was selling for “21” Brands; Brooke Shields; and Francis Albert Sinatra, “who never saw a check and tipped like Croesus.”

Former bouncer and fellow legendary 52nd Street restaurateur Toots Shor never used bad language, Jackie Gleason once bought a round of drinks for the entire kitchen, and when Charlie Chaplin arrived without a reservation late in life, the entire restaurant rose to give him a standing ovation.

Roy Cohn had a chicken sandwich on white bread with Hellmann’s mayo at table 116, often accompanied by his “apprentice,” a young Donald Trump with pink cheeks, long blond hair, a lavender suit, and white and purple patent leather shoes. Terry Dinan later taught Sunday School to Don Jr., Ivanka,

and Eric Trump at Saint Thomas Church on Fifth Avenue.

Aristotle Onassis liked to nibble on Parmesan cheese as he sipped his Bloody Mary before ordering a “21” burger, and one night Jacqueline Onassis felt a chill and requested one of the red-and-white checked tablecloths as a shawl.

Christmastime was special at the 21 Club, dating to the frigid night when Jerry Berns invited a Salvation Army band inside to warm up with some hot soup. They gratefully serenaded the restaurant in return, a tambourine was passed that was soon overflowing, and a tradition was born—one that lives on in the memories of generations of New Yorkers even as the restaurant, now owned by Belmond, has remained closed for the last several years. Terry Dinan is one of many who hope it will one day soon reopen. ◆

THE YOUNG & THE GUEST LIST YGL

BY BROOKE KELLY MURRAY MURRAY

Guests in the Garden Court.

COSTUME BALL AT THE FRICK COLLECTION IN NEW YORK

ON THE EVENING before Halloween, The Frick Collection hosted a black-tie Gilded Age costume ball aptly titled “All Hallows’ Eve at the Mansion.” In addition to celebrating the holiday, the one-time-only event honored the Frick’s storied legacy in its first year back in its newly renovated Fifth Avenue home—one of New York City’s last great Gilded Age mansions. Guests enjoyed after-hours gallery access, candlelit string quartet concerts, tarot card readings, a vintage candy bar, and music by DJs known as The Muses.

Clockwise from top left: Ivy Getty; Scott Francis and Mike Fabbri; Casey Kohlberg; Lauren Weinberg and Blaike Young; Ping; Kaleta Blaffer Johnson and Jesse Coors-Blankenship.

HALLOWEEN AT ANNABEL’S IN LONDON

ON OCTOBER 31ST, Annabel’s transported members and guests back in time to the world of the Vikings for the Club’s Halloween celebration. Guests arrived to find the façade transformed into a grand Viking ship, while the interior unfolded as a theatrical, Norse-inspired realm. The basement nightclub resembled an authentic longship, complete with dramatic décor. Attendees enjoyed Don Julio cocktails and music by Luciano and DJ Francis Mercier

Adot Gak and Marc Quinn

Paloma Faith and Stevie Thomas

Daniel Lismore and Yasmin Finney

Halloween Façade

Sam Way and Lisa King

THE WHITE CROSS BALL IN NEW YORK

IN EARLY NOVEMBER, the Order of Malta’s St. John Committee held its annual White Cross Ball of New York City in support of the Order’s global humanitarian efforts. The evening welcomed more than 400 guests and featured dinner, dancing, and a live auction. Congratulatory remarks in honor of the ball’s 10th anniversary were delivered by American Association President Kenneth Craig, GCM, along with chair Mercedes de Guardiola, DM, Dr. Michael Espiritu, KM, and Niccolò Falez, KM.

Michael Espiritu, Mercedes de Guardiola, and Niccolo Falez

Diana Flanagan, James Palazza, David Ludwigson, and Jeff Flanagan

Katie Sakys

Anna Zaiachkivska and John Gannon

Jonathan Berquist and Natalie Dougherty

ROCKETTES TURN 100

BY BROOKE KELLY MURRAY

FOR A CENTURY, the Rockettes have embodied the spirit of holiday joy. Founded in 1925 in St. Louis by choreographer Russell Markert, the original Missouri Rockets captivated audiences with their synchronized high kicks and impeccable timing—qualities that would soon make them a national sensation. After relocating to New York City in 1927 as the Roxyettes, the troupe found their forever home at Radio City Music Hall, where they performed opening night in 1932 and officially became the Rockettes.

The following year marked the debut of the Christmas Spectacular, now a beloved holiday tradition that has entertained more than 72 million people since 1933. From the classic “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers” to the living Nativity, the show remains a celebration of the season.

Over the decades, the Rockettes have shared the stage with Hollywood’s greatest films, performed for U.S. Presidents, and brought their signature choreography to the Super Bowl Halftime Show, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and countless television specials.

Today, the legacy continues as the Rockettes attract more than one million guests each Christmas season at Radio City. As they celebrate their 100th anniversary, their perfectly aligned kicks remind us that some traditions never lose their shine. u

Clockwise from top left: “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers,” 1960; Wooden Soldier costume sketch by designer Vincente Minnelli; “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers” today; Rockettes in training , 1937; Christmas Spectacular at Radio City.