Waldorf Astoria Residences Cherry Creek will rise as Colorado’s first Waldorf Astoria-branded property, setting a standard for world-class luxury in one of the most sought-after neighborhoods.
Evoking the pioneering spirit and natural beauty of its captivating mountain backdrop, the boutique property’s 37 luxury residences will deliver a timeless landmark in the heart of Denver.
1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom luxury residences starting from $2.3M
Penthouse pricing available upon request
Ride”
original mixed media
ANKE SCHOFIELD INTRODUCING
Internationally Acclaimed Artist
“Afternoon
(40x40)
32. HE SAID, SHE SAID
DATE NIGHT AT BROADWAY 10
34. ARTIST IN RESIDENCE
RAJ CHAUDHURI OF SAKS GALLERIES
37. BEYOND THE CREEK
EXPLORING COLORADO AND BEYOND
40. 36 HOURS
YOUR IDEAL CHERRY CREEK ITINERARY
43. DIRECTION
JOURNEY TO ROSEWOOD MAYAKOBA
48. HOMECOMING
ART ABOUNDS IN ASPEN
RUSSELL YOUNG
This spring, the Atelier by Relevant Galleries presents the Spring 2026 Artist Suite, featuring work by Russell Young.
Widely collected and internationally recognized, Young is known for his powerful reinterpretations of celebrity, power, and American cultural icons. This presentation offers c ollectors a focused look at recent works within an intimate, studio-style setting that highlights surface, material, and scale.
The Artist Suite provides a rare opportunity to engage closely with Young’s practice and to acquire works that reflect both his established visual language and its continued evolution.
BETSY MARR
PRESIDENT
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
2026 by
&
LLC. All rights reserved. Cherry Creek Magazine is
Reproduction without permission of the Publisher
Marr & Company, LLC and its affiliates, employees, contributors, writers, editor (Publisher) accepts no responsibility for inaccuracies, errors or omissions with information and/or advertisements contained herein. The Publisher has neither investigated nor endorsed companies and/or products that advertise in the publication or that are mentioned editorially. The Publisher assumes no responsibly for the claims made by the Advertisers or the merits of their respective products or services advertised or promoted in Cherry Creek Magazine. Publisher neither expressly nor implicitly endorses such Advertiser product, services or claims. Publisher expressly assumes no liability for any damages whatsoever that may be suffered by any purchaser or user for any products or services advertised or mentioned editorially herein. Opinions expressed in the magazine and/or its advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Publisher. CHERRY CREEK MAGAZINE Denver, Colorado 80206 303.917.6705 CHERRYCREEKMAG.COM
The Jacquard Hotel & Rooftop is Denver’s newest hotel in the heart of Cherry Creek, the city’s iconic fashion district. As the fabric of the neighborhood, the hotel weaves together a location in the most walkable neighborhood with distinguished hospitality, providing an experience that is “Altogether Cherry Creek.”
Discover inspired events, carefully curated to provide an experience like no other. Enjoy storied food and drink at award-winning on site restaurant, narrative. Sip and savor at Kisbee on the Roof, punctuated by unobstructed panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains and Downtown Denver skyline.
altogether cherry creek
Your Next Great Event Starts at The Peak
The Peak brings a fresh perspective to private events at Halcyon—an elevated retreat above Cherry Creek with uninterrupted views of the Denver skyline and Colorado Rockies. Thoughtfully designed for privacy while still immersed in the energy of the city, this versatile rooftop venue is built to flex, impress, and elevate every moment. 245 Columbine St, Denver, CO 80206 Inquire Today at halcyonhotelcherrycreek.com
Winter has a way of clarifying what truly matters. The pace slows just enough to notice the people who build alongside you, the partnerships that last, and the stories worth celebrating. This Winter issue of Cherry Creek Magazine is all about those moments.
We are proud to introduce Cherry Creek Weddings & Events, a long-envisioned extension of our brand that celebrates love, creativity, and the exceptional talent found across Colorado. Inside, you will find breathtaking real weddings paired with our signature styled shoot, brought to life by the endlessly talented Jenna Ritter of Marigold Events. Her vision and ability to elevate every detail made this shoot unforgettable, and I am deeply grateful for her creativity and collaboration.
This issue also features Love in the Creek, a series that highlights couples who shape Cherry Creek through both their relationships and their work. Shelby and Mac Richardson of Richardson Development continue to influence the neighborhood’s evolution. Ashley and Tucker Foster represent the third generation leading Foster & Son Fine Jewelers, carrying forward a legacy built on trust and craftsmanship. Janelle and Parker Thomas of Hat & Hem embody the heart of independent retail through shared creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. Their stories are reminders that Cherry Creek is not just a place, but a community built by people who care deeply about what they create.
note from our publisher
We also turn our attention to Aurora with a thoughtful contribution from restaurateur Juan Padro, who explores the energy and growth of its culinary scene. Closer to home, we round up the best fitness studios in Cherry Creek, because wellness continues to shape how we live, connect, and recharge.
This magazine exists because of collaboration. I am endlessly grateful to my husband and business partner, Kevin, who stands beside me in every decision and every long day, helping turn ideas into reality and vision into something tangible. And to my dear friend and photographer Carly Swan, whose talent, perspective, and steady presence elevate every project we take on together.
As winter settles in, I hope this issue invites you to slow down, linger a little longer, and feel connected to the people and places that make Cherry Creek so special.
Thank you for being part of our story.
Yours in style,
Betsy Marr
PHOTO BY CARLY SWAN
Where it’s been summer vacation since 1965.
Discover Omni La Costa Resort & Spa, a sun-soaked escape in Carlsbad, California.
With direct flights from Denver into Carlsbad, your sunshine escape couldn’t be easier. Enjoy Spanish-inspired charm amongst refreshed guest rooms, sparkling pools, championship golf courses, tennis courts and rejuvenating spa days. With warm days & effortless access to beaches, it's the perfect place to trade snow for sunshine.
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CONTRIBUTOR
Jenna Ritter
Jenna Ritter is the founder and creative force behind Marigold Events, a boutique luxury planning and design studio serving weddings, corporate gatherings, and milestone celebrations. With an editor’s eye for detail and a calm command of logistics, she creates design-forward experiences that feel effortless for her clients. Jenna is known for layered, intentional styling, thoughtful vendor collaboration, and timelines that run like clockwork, so hosts can stay fully present. Her work marries creative vision with meticulous planning, producing celebrations that are timeless, elevated, and unmistakably personal. Based in Boulder, she designs across Colorado, designing events that truly reflect the client’s personal style and story, . See her taent throughtout our Sunset in the Gardens feature in the debut issue of Cherry Creek Weddings & Events.
GETTING TO KNOW HER...
GO-TO SPOT FOR A CELEBRATORY TOAST? Matsuhisa or Steakhouse 316. They are both incredible!
DREAM CREATIVE COLLABORATION? Aman Resorts or the Four Seasons Resorts Collection. Both embody luxury in their own distinct ways and collaborating with them would be inspiring.
WEDDING DETAIL YOU’LL ALWAYS SAY YES TO? A creative escort display or patterned, colorful linens
YOUR SIGNATURE STYLE IN ONE WORD? One-of-a-kind!
+ MORE VIA @marigoldeventsco
PHOTO BY CARLY SWAN
Clayton Hotel & Members Club is a place to gather with purpose and connect with people who inspire you. Inside, enjoy access to beautiful member spaces, dining, a rooftop pool, work areas, and a robust calendar of events. For locals and travelers alike, Clayton offers an elevated home filled with good company and good energy.
10. Prada Galleria Medium Leather Top-Handle Bag $5,400
1. Tom Ford
Men’s Shelton Silk Twill Suit, $6,950 Neiman Marcus Denver
2. Oris Aquis Date Watch, $2,600 The 1916 Company
3. Hermès Faconnee H Tie in Blanc, $300 Hermès Denver
4. Scotch & Soda
Men’s Cotton Texture Knit Polo Shirt, $138 Neiman Marcus Denver
5. Andersons
Leather-Trimmed Woven Cord Belt, $210 Mr. Porter
6. Moncler
Mistral Fleece and Quilted Shell Down Jacket, $2,070 Mr. Porter
7. Gucci
Men’s Byorn Guccisima Suede Bit Loafers, $930 Neiman Marcus Denver
8. Bang & Olufsen
Beoplay H100 Premium Wireless Headphones, $2,200 Bang & Olufsen
9. Fendi FF Match Sneaker $970 Nordstrom Cherry Creek
10. Brunello Cucinelli Wool and Cashmere-Blend Baseball Cap, $780 Mr. Porter
11. Her Bride-a-Brac Case, Large Model, $900 Hermès Denver
neighborhood watch
The CurielS Bring Spain to Cherry Creek
Two-time Michelin Star chef and restaurateur Johnny Curiel and his business partner/wife Kasie have opened their new Spanish neobistro and wine bar, Mar Bella Boqueria, inside the Clayton Hotel & Members Club. Located just steps from his award-winning restaurant, Alteno, the Curiel’s newest addition spotlights the vibrance and spontaneity of coastal Spanish dining, complete with a seafood-forward tapas program, jamóneria-style chef’s counter and conserva bar, and a chef’s counter omakase experience.
“Mar Bella Boqueria is a vision years in the making,” Curiel explains. “Opening a Spanish restaurant is a dream realized after years of exploration through Spain with Kasie, each trip pulling us deeper into the regional nuances and the fierce pride people have for their food and traditions. Spanish colonization left an indelible mark on the way Mexicans cook, shaping our food in profound and lasting ways. This next chapter feels like exploring a side of my story that’s been a part of my cooking all along.”
Opening a Spanish restaurant is a dream realized after years of exploration through Spain with Kasie, each trip pulling us deeper into the regional nuances and the fierce pride people have for their food and traditions.”
The menu showcases seafood-focused tapas, house-made conservas, pâtés, terrines, and a robust dry-aged fish program, sourced from the Mediterranean, Atlantic and Cantabrian seas.
At the jamóneria counter, Curiel’s eightcourse omakase tasting becomes a canvas for him and his team to freely explore new flavor profiles and techniques, creating truly irreplicable guest experiences. The 62-seat space also boasts a Spanish-driven wine list of 120+ bottles, with more than 30 available by the glass, focusing on the country’s most storied regions of Rioja, Catalunya, Basque Country, and Zaragoza, alongside selections from the South of France.
+ MORE VIA //marbellaboqueria.com
Local Love
Local Jones at Halcyon Hotel is ringing in the new year with a refreshed dinner menu from Executive Chef Ian McKenzie , reinforcing its role as a true neighborhood gathering place. Rooted in modern American comfort, the new offerings spotlight ingredient-driven dishes shaped by community, curiosity, and Colorado-inspired foodways, with a strong emphasis on regionally sourced ingredients from local farmers and purveyors.
The menu opens with crave-worthy starters designed for sharing and lingering, from Parker House rolls with cultured butter and oysters on the half shell to lamb lollipops and vibrant vegetable-forward plates. Mains strike a balance between elevated and approachable, featuring dry-aged hanger steak, Colorado striped bass, and a deeply satisfying braised lamb shank. Anchoring it all are the house favorites that regulars return for time and again, including the beloved LJ Burger, house-made pastas, and expertly grilled meats and fish.
The result is a menu that feels both familiar and fresh, perfectly suited for everything from casual weeknight dinners to gathering with friends over something thoughtfully made.
When choosing an Assisted Living community, every detail matters–from personalized care to the sense of connection your loved one feels each day.
At St. Andrew’s Village Active Independent Living and Assisted Living, we offer more than just expert care–we provide a warm, boutique-style community where residents build meaningful relationships, engage in enriching activities, and receive support tailored to their unique needs.
Power Plays at Narrative
Narrative at The Jacquard is giving Cherry Creek North locals two new reasons to make it a weekday ritual. Launched mid-January, the new $30 Power Lunch runs Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and delivers a polished, efficient midday option without sacrificing quality. Diners choose a first and second course, enjoy a chef’s daily sweet treat, and finish with a non-alcoholic beverage, all for $30. It’s a smart, unfussy way to enjoy Narrative’s signature lunch favorites, ideal for business meetings, shopping breaks, or a proper lunch close to home.
Early January also marked the debut of Weekday Happy Hour, available Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. Expect happy-hour-only bites, $11 cocktails, $9 wines and well drinks, and $5 canned beers. On Thursdays, guitarist Keith Hicks sets the tone with live music from 3:30 to 6 p.m., making it an easy choice for postwork unwinding, pre-dinner plans, or a budget-friendly start to the evening.
+ more via narrativecherrycreek.com
From Bake Sales to Boardrooms
Cherry Creek Magazine publisher Betsy Marr has entered a different corner of publishing with the release of her first book. From PTA to KPI is a guide for mothers returning to work after stepping away to raise children. The tome reflects a growing reality for experienced professionals who are discovering that reentry no longer resembles the workplace they once knew.
In a relatively short span of time, the mechanics of work have shifted. Meetings moved online. New tools became default. Language evolved. For women who temporarily stepped away to raise families, that gap is not one of skill but of fluency. What was once familiar now requires translation.
Marr’s approach is shaped by lived experience. She became a mother just shy of 40 while continuing to run a business and publish a magazine, spending years focused on keeping both afloat in survival mode. When she was ready to reengage more fully, she encountered a professional landscape that had changed without ceremony. The result is a book that addresses the practical and psychological friction of reentry.
Rather than offering traditional career advice, From PTA to KPI serves as a field guide. It breaks down current workplace terminology, introduces commonly used platforms, and reframes years of unpaid leadership and logistical management as professional assets. It also acknowledges newer realities, including the everyday presence of AI at work, without overstatement or hype.
Available on Amazon and at PTAtoKPI.com , the book ($24) anchors a broader ecosystem that includes digital companion guides and a monthly membership ($19) for ongoing support. Together, they are positioned as resources for women who are not starting over, but stepping back in.
Written with restraint and humor, From PTA to KPI captures a moment when many women are realizing that while their careers may have paused, the workplace did not.
60 SECONDS WITH BETSY MARR
+ more via ptatokpi.com
This isn’t a traditional career book. How do you describe it? More like CliffsNotes. It’s meant to be readable, efficient, and a little funny. The goal wasn’t to lecture anyone, but to make the process feel less heavy and far less intimidating.
Why did this feel timely to write now? Because work has changed quickly and quietly. A lot of the new language and tools are treated as if everyone automatically understands them, which isn’t always the case.
What stood out when you reengaged more seriously with your own career? How much of the conversation happens in shorthand or through an app. If you’ve been focused on raising kids, it can feel like everyone else got a memo you missed.
How personal is the book? It’s informed by real experience. I became a mom at 40 and spent years juggling work and family in survival mode, not paying close attention to corporate nuance. When I came up for air, I was shocked at how much had changed in such a short time, particularly post-COVID. That perspective shaped how I approached the book.
What do you hope readers take away from it? A sense of orientation and relief. It’s okay to laugh a little, ask questions, and move forward without pretending you already know everything.
Celebrate the New Year in Style
WITH AN UNFORGETABLE STAY IN CHERRY CREEK
The Jacquard Hotel & Rooftop, located in the heart of Denver’s iconic Cherry Creek fashion district, is the perfect place to relax and renew this New Year. Enjoy in-room comforts such as luxurious linens, plush robes, and custom-designed furnishings—details that help create a truly restorative stay.
While you’re here, explore our inspired events and thoughtfully curated packages, each designed to offer an experience like no other. Savor storied food and drink at our award-winning onsite restaurant, narrative, and wander Cherry Creek’s charmingly independent boutiques and galleries, all just steps away.
Book your visit today and enjoy a hotel where distinguished hospitality is woven seamlessly with modern urban elegance.
Whether you’re a dedicated athlete or just starting your fitness journey, Cherry Creek North offers an amazing lineup of studios and gyms where strength, sweat, community and good vibes come together. From high-energy HIIT to mindful barre and boxing-inspired workouts, here are the local favorites worth checking out. -- Betsy Marr 2 2 3 4
LAGREE LUXE
1 2 1 3 4
THE BEST FITNESS STUDIOS IN CHERRY CREEK…
THE STUDIO
Lagree Luxe brings precision and intensity together in sleek, modern fashion. Using the Megaformer, classes focus on slow, controlled movements that target every muscle group with constant tension. The result is a workout that feels deceptively calm but incredibly powerful. Expect improved strength, balance, posture and endurance. The studio’s refined environment elevates the entire experience, making each class feel both challenging and indulgent. It is where discipline meets luxury.
Best For: High-intensity pilates sculpting.
lagreeluxe.com
A longtime Cherry Creek favorite, The Studio is known for its highly personalized approach to fitness and long-term results. With an emphasis on movement quality, strength development and sustainable habits, trainers design programs that feel tailored rather than templated. Clients range from beginners rebuilding confidence to seasoned athletes refining performance. The atmosphere is professional yet approachable, creating a space where progress feels achievable and motivating. This is where consistency turns into visible change, and where fitness becomes a lifestyle instead of a phase.
Best For: Personalized training, small group classes, resultsdriven workouts.
thestudiocc.com
SOUL CYCLE
At SoulCycle, cardio becomes an experience. Each class blends rhythm, choreography, and storytelling into a ride that challenges both body and mindset. The candlelit room, curated playlists, and motivating instructors create a sense of connection that keeps riders coming back. It is equal parts workout, therapy session and celebration. Whether you are chasing personal records or simply chasing good energy, SoulCycle delivers an empowering environment where every ride feels like a reset.
Best For: High-energy indoor cycling.
soul-cycle.com
PURE BARRE
Pure Barre offers a method that proves small movements can create big change. Inspired by ballet, Pilates and strength training, each class focuses on targeted muscle engagement that tones, lifts and lengthens. The low-impact format makes it accessible, while the intensity keeps it effective. Clients love the supportive environment, knowledgeable instructors, and the confidence that comes from consistent progress. It is a go-to studio for those seeking elegance, strength and longevity in their fitness routine.
Best seat: Low-impact toning with visible results.
purebarre.com
7 6
5
BARRY’S
Known worldwide for its signature Red Room, Barry’s delivers one of the most effective HIIT workouts in the industry. Alternating between treadmill sprints and strength training, the format is designed to maximize calorie burn while building lean muscle. The atmosphere is electric, the coaches are motivating, and the results speak for themselves. Add in spa-level amenities and a post-workout Fuel Bar, and Barry’s becomes more than a class — it becomes a full fitness ritual.
Best For: High-intensity interval training.
barrys.com
RUMBLE BOXING
7 6
Rumble transforms traditional boxing into a high-energy, musicdriven workout that is as empowering as it is effective. Half the class focuses on boxing combinations while the other half builds strength through targeted circuits, creating a perfectly balanced total-body burn. The lights, music and pace make the experience feel more like a party than a workout, while still delivering serious results. It is the ideal outlet for stress, confidence building, and sculpting strong arms, core and legs.
Best For: Boxing-inspired strength and conditioning. rumbleboxinggym.com
YOGA BOX
Yoga Box delivers a modern approach to yoga that balances movement, mindfulness and strength. From powerful Vinyasa flows and Yoga Sculpt classes to calming restorative sessions, the studio offers something for every mood and fitness level. Heated and climatecontrolled rooms enhance flexibility while keeping comfort in mind. The energy is welcoming, inclusive and motivating, making it easy to build both physical strength and mental clarity. It is a space where growth happens on and off the mat.
Best For: Dynamic yoga and sculpt in a communitydriven setting.
yogabox.com
about town
When was the seed planted to follow your passion in becoming a cosmetic surgeon focusing on face, eyes, and body?
When I was a teenager, my aunt, who was an oculoplastic surgeon, would let me spend time with her in the OR. I remember watching her work and feeling completely captivated by the precision, the calm, and the way she could make such a difference in someone’s life. As I went through my own medical training, I realized that facial and oculoplastic surgery gave me that same sense of purpose and possibility I felt as a kid. Being able to blend skill and the opportunity to help someone feel more confident is what drew me in, and it still inspires me every day.
How long have you been doing this, and what is a moment or accomplishment you’ll always cherish?
Although I have been practicing for more than two decades and have had the privilege of caring for thousands of patients, creating the J-Plazty procedure stands out as one of the greatest accomplishments of my career. Seeing it become global and serve as the basis for how the industry approaches skin tightening today has been incredibly meaningful. What amazes me most is seeing how a procedure can change not only how someone looks, but how they feel. That reminder that our work has emotional impact as well as physical impact is something I carry with me every day.
DR. JACK ZAMORA meet
He’s been making Cherry Creek beautiful for years, both literally and figuratively. Dr. Jack Zamora found his calling early in life with cosmetic surgery and aesthetics, and the wellness and beauty mecca of Cherry Creek is better off for it. We had to learn more about this one-of-a-kind Man About Town.
The doctor will see you now.
What’s something most people don’t know about the cosmetic surgery industry today? People often don’t realize just how rapidly the field is evolving. Modern cosmetic surgery is far more advanced, minimally invasive, and natural-looking than ever before. We now have regenerative treatments, cutting-edge energy-based devices, and technologies like ATTIVA iRF that allow us to
deliver refined, elegant results with far less downtime. The innovation happening behind the scenes is truly extraordinary.
Favorite neighborhood haunts? Cherry Creek has so many incredible options. I’m a regular at Aviano - the Angelino is my go-to. For dining, I love Le Bilboquet and La Merise. Both spots have that welcoming neighborhood feel and great staff – shout-out to Adel and Johnny! Supporting local businesses is so important.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? Stay curious. Keep developing. Aesthetic medicine evolves quickly, and staying open to new ideas has shaped my career and the way I care for my patients.
Do you read and/or watch TV?
What’s the last book or show that left an impression on you? I do both. I just rewatched Limitless with Bradley Cooper, and it always leaves an impression on me.
I love the idea of unlocking your full potential and the concept that the mind is capable of so much more than we often tap into. It’s a reminder of how powerful focus and discipline can be and something I see reflected in both surgery and life.
What are three things you can’t live without?
My wife, my children, and my faith. Those three things fuel everything I do.
Who are your five dream guests to join you for dinner and what are you eating? I’d invite a mix of thinkers and creators: My wife - of course, Anthony Bourdain, Leonardo da Vinci, Elon Musk, and Jesus. We’re eating either incredible sushi by Yoji Yamada or a long, shared tapas-style meal where the conversation is just as important as the food.
The most fun you’ve had in a city is where? Beaver Creek here in Colorado. It’s where I was married, and it holds some of my favorite memories. Between the setting, the moments, and the people, it’s where I’ve had the most fun.
What would you tell your 18-year-old self now? Be patient and trust the process. The path isn’t always linear, but every experience, even the difficult ones, plays a part in shaping who you become.
BETTER odds BETTER buyers BETTER outcomes
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We speak with more than 1,400 new buyers every week and close more than a deal a day nationwide.
With business advisory, growth consulting, and commercial real estate expertise behind every transaction, we deliver outcomes most firms can’t.”
-Axel
Fleischli, CM&AA
I love the idea of unlocking your full potential and the concept that the mind is capable of so much more than we often tap into.”
MORE VIA // jackzamoramd.com
AXEL FLEISCHLI, CM&AA
Partner • Senior Business Broker (970) 420-9317 • afleischli@tworld.com www.tworldcolorado.com
gal about town
meet Esther Lee Leach of
THE ELL NETWORK
In a neighborhood powered by introductions as much as taste, few people move as effortlessly between boardrooms, city halls, and cultural front rows as Esther Lee Leach. As Founder and Principal of The ELL Network, she’s built a career around strategy and connection by advising leaders on partnerships, civic engagement, and external affairs with the steady confidence of someone who’s been on every side of the table. Her current roles read like a snapshot of Colorado’s momentum: a governor-appointed member of the Colorado Economic Development Commission, Chair-elect of the Board of the Cherry Creek Chamber of Commerce, and a board member of Biennial of the Americas and CherryArts. Most recently, in the Office of the Mayor for the City and County of Denver, she led citywide board recruitment and appointments and helped shape community partnership strategy, representing the City on major economic and cultural initiatives, including the Outside Festival and the Sundance Film Festival. Add to that an early career in television as a journalist, producer, and host—and later, the founder of a digital fashion and culture magazine—and you get a woman fluent in both message and momentum. Esther is the one you want in the room when the goal isn’t just a great gathering, but a lasting alliance.
What’s one thing you must do every morning before the world can have you? I try to think of one good thing that is happening today and hug my son Hunter. It sets an optimistic tone for the day and prepares me to handle whatever comes my way.
If your wardrobe told a story about your life right now, what would the chapter be called and what piece defines it? Simplicity and Ease. I do a lot of monochromatic looks, so my black St. John dress with a leather jacket thrown over my shoulders. I copy this look regularly in brown and navy tones as well.
What’s one little local spot that totally embodies your favorite Cherry Creek energy? It’s so hard to choose one! I am a regular at Le Colonial. I love the vibe, decor and the food is always spot on and delicious. The best part of visiting is the incredible team at the restaurant. They are exceptional!
You grew up on the island of Saint Lucia. What part of that upbringing still shows up in your everyday life here in Denver? Being from Saint Lucia and the Caribbean gives you a natural love of community and cultivating spaces that welcome everyone. I always bring that to my life here in Denver.
You’ve done everything from media to consulting to civic leadership. What’s the pivot you look back on and think That was a turning point? Launching my online magazine, Cherry Creek Fashion, was definitely a turning point for me in Denver. This is how I built my community here and how people got to know me. I did a lot in magazines, tv and film in the Caribbean but this was my first media project in Colorado.
Who are your five dream dinner party guests and what are you eating? The meal would be catered by my favorite Caribbean restaurant in Colorado, The Reggae Pot. Guests would be Rihanna, Emma Grede, Melody Hobson, Jamie Dimon and Andy Cohen. A dynamic and entertaining bunch!
What are three things you can’t live without? Plantains, oxtail and my son’s kisses.
As Chair-Elect of the Cherry Creek Chamber and a board member of multiple civic groups, what’s a misconception about community leadership you’re on a mission to change? One misconception is that you have to be a senior leader to participate in board service. There is a place for everyone and all voices on boards and civic organizations. Everyone has something to contribute because of their unique experience and life.
When you think of legacy (not just success) what are you building that matters most to you? One thing that matters to me is leaving a legacy of kindness, being welcoming and wanting everyone to win! There is so much negativity in the world, I always try to be a bright spot. Life is not always easy but there are so many things to be thankful for on a daily basis.
You’ve reinvented yourself across careers and creative projects. What’s your best advice for someone who wants to do it all without burning out? I turned 45 last year and I have learned that rest is also productive. I love doing it all but it’s necessary to have downtime and enjoy life with family and friends. Having my son taught me to slow down and enjoy simpler things without thinking about what’s next.
Esther Lee Leach is our Gal About Town
What does your ideal Friday night in Cherry Creek look like…from dusk till late? I would start with a cocktail at the bar at Broadway 10, then dinner at Le Colonial or Quality Italian. Ending the night at Ay Papi is always a good idea!
You’re stuck somewhere tropical (like Saint Lucia!) What three songs are on repeat? She’s Royal by Tarrus Riley; So Mi Like It by Spice; Creme De la Creme by Teddyson John
If you had to pick a totally different dream job, unrelated to what you do now, what would it be? I would be St. Lucia’s ambassador to the United Nations.
What advice would you give your 18-year-old self? Keep believing and going! You are on the right path and you know exactly what you are doing.
5 QUESTIONS IN 15 SECONDS with Esther Lee Leach
BEST HIDDEN BRUNCH SPOT? Le French
GO-TO COCKTAIL? Reposado tequila with soda and dash of lime
FAVORITE DENVER OUTDOOR MOMENT?
Cherry Creek Arts Festival (I am on the board of Cherry Arts)
A BOOK YOU GIFT MOST? White Egrets by Derek Walcott. He is also from Saint Lucia and won the Nobel Prize for Literature.
ONE THING YOU ALWAYS HAVE IN YOUR BAG? Kuumba Made Egyptian Musk Fragrance Oil rollerball + MORE VIA // theellnetwork.com
KEEGAN LABRADOR , MISTER OSO
Keegan Labrador is a character. He’s the orchestra conductor and emcee behind the bar that you hope to encounter when you’re settling in for a night out. As the Beverage Director for The Culinary Creative Group and all of its Denver and Cherry Creek establishments (including Mister Oso in Wash Park), we had to sit down with the man with the stories for our latest installment of Bar Cart
How did you get into this industry and why? I grew up working in hospitality, but after college I began a career in financial services. I was miserable managing in a cubicle farm environment, so I picked up some shifts working at a friend’s high end rooftop bar. Quickly, I was having much more fun working at the bar at night than I ever had at the office job, and the money was just as good. It was an easy decision to make the switch full time, and then I had to figure out how to make it a career path.
Talk about the bar scene and vibe at Mister Oso Wash Park. Mister Oso is all about fun, approachable hospitality paired with really great food and drinks. We work really hard at our craft so that we can serve our guests some amazing offerings, but we never brag about it or try to preach to anyone about how special our favorite mezcal is, for example.
and it turned out that they had just come from their holiday party and, in the gift exchange, this guy was given a cat! He didn’t stay long and, on his way out, someone in the group excitedly asked him, “What a unique gift idea!” to which he replied in the most somber tone “Yeah. Thanks so much for the 10-year commitment.” That killed me and I’ll never forget the dejected, pissed off look on the guy’s face.
What’s the oddest drink order you’ve ever received? I don’t know.
I try not to judge someone by the drink they enjoy, but I will say that I’ve had a few guests ask me for warm beer and I’ve never quite understood that.
Is there a guest you’ll always remember?
What have you come to expect from the patrons? People come into Mister Oso to enjoy refined food and drinks in a high energy, vibey yet relaxed environment. Our guests are different at each location. For example, the RiNo crowd is more party while the Wash Park neighborhood has more of a family-friendly feel. But, regardless of location, our guests want to come in and eat great tacos and drink authentic, delicious tequila for a fair price and without any pretension.
What’s the best drink we’ve NEVER had? Have you ever had a Chilcano? It’s basically the Peruvian answer to a Moscow Mule. Pisco, lime, ginger beer and angostura bitters. Simple, fresh, delicious.
Is there one drink that you love to make? The next one…
What’s the funniest or weirdest thing you’ve overheard while bartending? Well, more a story than a comment, but a few years ago we had a group of business people come to the bar and one of the guys had a cat carrier with him. He looked absolutely miserable,
I mean, Cat Guy, but I’ve also met so many wonderfully kind and interesting people that there are many I’ll always remember. One who made a lasting impression was a regular at this spot I worked at a while ago that would come in almost every night and, over the course of several years, we got close. He was a nice guy that had a great sense of humor and was always positive about everything. He made friends with everyone around him and just made the bar a better place when he was in it. One night, he paid his tab and told me that this was “Goodbye.” I thought he was joking around, but he said he was ill and moving closer to family to spend the time he had left with loved ones. I was speechless. We shook hands, he walked out, and I never saw him again.
Where do you get your inspiration? All around me… food I eat, places I visit, people I spend time with.
Do you drink? If so, what’s your drink of choice? After work, a cheap beer and a shot. On a day off, a classic daiquiri – make it a double.
+ MORE VIA // misterosodenver.com
he said she said
BROADWAY 10
We’re married. We work together. We see each other all the time. So, what could we possibly talk about while out for dinner? In this case, food. And lots of it. Join us at Broadway 10.
He: Do you know how many people are raving about this place with others saying that the neighborhood desperately needed a dedicated steak and chophouse? These guys from Oklahoma aren’t messing around. The layout is beautiful…and it’s a huge space.
She: Agreed. Such a needed addition for Cherry Creek. Aside from Alteno, I’ve been underwhelmed by the restaurants that have opened recently. Maybe underwhelmed is the wrong word. Can you just be “whelmed?” I’m whelmed. Lukewarm, I suppose.
is my favorite dish thus far. Alec was right when we said it was underrated.
He: I already know we’re getting the Bacon, Elevated that features five different flavored strips of the best bacon you’ll ever experience along with a bed of coleslaw. And do I see some jalapenos in the slaw? Let’s go.
She: I want to try the maple one. That looks incredible. But you cannot fill up on bacon at a steakhouse. It’s like filling up on chips at a Mexican restaurant.
He: Remember, back in the day, this spot used to be BLOOM by Anuschka and then when she moved, it was a children’s store? B10 knocked down some walls, quadrupled the size, and now it’s this must-attend dining establishment. Crazy how Cherry Creek continues to grow and change.
She: I think it was actually both. Anuschka had the back half and in front it was Allie Perkins’ store, Heloise. I so wish that were still around. The most beautiful French children’s clothing.
He: Our server Alec was right when he said this coconut shrimp with the mango relish and peanut sauce was a sleeper hit. Reminds me of Hawaii and our trip to Lanai. I need more of this shrimp and more of Hawaii.
She: That was an incredible trip. Two Four Seasons Resorts on one island. What could be better? And Lanai itself was so authentic, and peaceful. A slice of what Hawaii used to be. And I agree, the Coconut Shrimp
He: And they’re nailing the sushi too. The 830 Volcano that arrives literally on fire with tempura shrimp, avocado, cream cheese, jalapeno, sweet chili eel sauce and chives is the epitome of dinner and show.
She: I love the spectacle of the fire. So fun.
He: I’ve had the steak here already and, since I’ve only already had four thick cut pieces of bacon, I’m going to ask out this 14-ounce pork chop. Time to pig out. See what I did there?
She: I am eyeing a steak. I mean, when in Rome. Just trying to decide which of the sides we should try. The bacon mac and cheese reads really well. Let’s have that!
He: The people watching here is next level. A very fashion forward crowd for Denver. I love it. Although that gal constantly raising her arms to pantomime whatever story she’s telling at the table down there is bit theatrical. I bet the bar scene here is fun!
She: I was noticing that while we walked to our table. It looks like a lively bar of professionals. I will have to try it next time I am out with girlfriends. It’s hard to find a good bar for the over 40-crowd and this one seems to be nailing it. Also, I am relatively certain the pantomime woman was my advisor during my provisional year in the Junior League 25-years-ago.
He: I’d eat more of this delicious sticky toffee pudding if I hadn’t just eaten for my weight off of this menu.
She: You know I have a sweet tooth and always save room for dessert. And this was the right choice. The butterscotch ties it all in perfectly. An ideal ending to an even more ideal meal. We will definitely be coming back!
Kevin and Betsy Marr are “He” and ‘She.” They work and live in the Denver area, where they produce Cherry Creek Magazine and raise their five and seven-year-old boys…all under one roof.
+ MORE VIA // b10chophouse.com
Designed for the Way You Live.
There’s a certain kind of home that draws people in. Chairs that invite conversation. Tables that host more than meals. Rooms that feel composed, collected, and quietly confident.
At HW Home, our designers create spaces that hold memories as beautifully as they hold form, layered with intention, finished with restraint, and meant to be lived in fully.
artist in residence meet
RAJ CHAUDHURI of SAKS GALLERIES
American painter Edward Hopper once said, “If you could say it in words there would be no reason to paint.”
Raj Chaudhuri has witnessed countless images beyond words, so thank goodness he paints. And he paints extraordinarily well. With his work featured prominently at Saks Galleries Cherry Creek and around Colorado, we sat down to learn so much more. And he did not brush us off (pun intended). Introducing our fascinating Artist in Residence.
When were you first introduced to painting and what captured your love for it? Creating art has been a passion since my earliest childhood memories. I was always drawing and using whatever paints I could find. Art class was my favorite, and I’d look forward to it with anticipation. My formal art education started in 1998, at the Art Students League of Denver, where professional artists teach students. My love for art has always been inspired by the desire to make something beautiful. I am inspired by the search for beauty in everyday scenes.
Talk about growing up in India and how that experience shaped you as a person and as an artist. Spending my formative years in Rajasthan, India, the people there wear very vibrant, vividly pigmented clothes. These colors typically denote the village or area they are from. Almost intrinsically these have affected my desire to make beautifully colorful paintings. Movies, both Bollywood and Hollywood (westerns in particular) and the advertisements in Time Magazine of the Marlboro Man and Virginia Slims women fascinated me when I was a young boy. I would sketch and paint these at every opportunity - every time a new magazine arrived - as I was fascinated by the people, especially the cowboys. There is a lot of constant bustle in India, and that has shaped me a person. I am always wanting to do something - athletically, or socially, or now in the studio painting. I feel like I am driven with constant motion and am comfortable with that having grown up in India.
How would you describe your style and what types of subject matter do you gravitate to with your paintings and why? My painting approach is fairly real when you look primarily. However, the design and color ideas are very abstract. I tend to think of my painting as two shapes (dark and light) interacting (or resonating) with one another. I love textures and complex value relationships, but with a context, which is the design of the painting. In terms of subject matter, my art straddles two worlds. The first being the beautiful western landscape, people, and animals here in Colorado and the Southwest. The second and foundational is from the vibrancy and beautiful chaos my east Indian upbringing. I feel constantly drawn to both and literally represent this shifting a few paintings at a time, along with some still life work and figure drawing. I have never been the sort of artist to paint only one subject or genre—I see beauty in so many places.I really enjoy plein air work too, so typically half my suitcase is filled with my painting gear when traveling or in a backpack going to paint the Colorado mountains and streams. It is a thrill to paint in nature and the learning and inspiration is unsurpassed.
What’s something about the art industry that most people don’t know? Paintings are surprisingly ‘technical’ to make. Each one presents a unique challenge that could be solved many ways. There is a lot of ‘emotion’ and ‘talent’ or ‘natural ability’ too, however one’s drive and hard work count for way more. Most artists have a set schedule and paint every day and spend a significant time crafting the composition of a painting with shape and line and value before the actual painting - the fun part - can begin. With regards to the art industry, a lot of the art industry works very informally and without written contracts.
You work with Saks Galleries in Cherry Creek. Talk about that partnership and how that came about. Saks Galleries is an amazing space for an artist. They are the best gallery in town. Located here in Cherry Creek, it is truly the most desired shopping location in Denver. Mikkel, Catherine and now Bekka Saks have been so supportive of me as an artist, for which I am so grateful. It is indeed a partnership as it takes the both of us to create a sale. I have been at Saks for over 15 years now and I see this relationship getting stronger as we grow together. The relationship started very organically with me approaching them and slowly starting to show paintings starting with group show, and I am planning on a one-person show at Saks in the next year-anda-half.
From your travels, which place has shaped you most and what work came from it?
One of my most impactful trips (and personal growth as an artist) came from visiting the Grand Canyon several years ago. Hiking down the canyon with my wife and daughter and seeing this immense landscape around you, I felt like I could see forever and was surrounded by these behemoth mountains. It was a true moment of awe and beauty. The paintings came as a result, with my daughter in the canyon, and have been very inspiring to me and successful visually.
Do you have a particularly unforgettable moment as an artist?
There are two paintings that are related, one in the Children’s Hospital and the other at Saint Joseph’s Hospital. They depict my daughter and a friend jumping into a pool in the summer playing. These paintings have resonated with patients and their loved ones that have seen them during their stay at the hospitals and given joy at a difficult time in their lives. To me this is really profound and motivates me to work harder to create more beautiful and meaningful paintings.
Tell me something most people don’t know about you. I have two. I left home at 11-years-old. I went to a boarding school (Mayo College) that was created by the British about 150 years ago. And then I went to college at St. Xavier’s College in Bombay (now Mumbai). I stayed at the hostel there. Also, I was a competitive soccer player, playing varsity in the SEC at Ole Miss. Now I am an avid golfer.
The Long Game of wellness
Two years ago, I made a decision that quietly changed everything. Beyond my family, my health would become my top priority. Not as an afterthought and not as a reaction to burnout, but as a strategy. As a business owner, a working mom, and someone who carries a lot, I realized that if I wanted to show up fully for my life, I had to optimize the foundation it all rested on.
That decision led me to Eden Health Club, and it has genuinely changed my life.
I am there almost daily. Not because I have to be, but because it has become one of the few places where my time feels both restorative and productive. Eden is filled with incredibly smart people who truly care about your wellbeing, who know your name, track your progress, and want you to succeed not just in fitness, but in life.
My journey with Eden began on the fitness side, and quickly shifted to functional health. Through comprehensive metabolic bloodwork, I finally saw what my body was actually doing beneath the surface. Instead of guessing or layering on supplements blindly, Eden identified exactly what I needed and, just as importantly, what I did not. That clarity alone was empowering.
From there, we moved into hormone optimization. I began hormone replacement therapy with a testosterone pellet, which delivers a steady, consistent dose over time. The results were subtle at first, then undeniable. More energy, better focus, stronger workouts, and a sense of balance that made everything else in my life feel more manageable.
Peptide therapy became another powerful tool. A microdose GLP protocol helps me support metabolism, hunger cues, inflammation, and brain fog during demanding seasons. I also incorporated Sermorelin, a peptide that stimulates the body’s natural production of growth hormone. Rather than overriding the system, it works with it, supporting recovery, lean muscle, sleep quality, and cognitive clarity.
What sets Eden apart is how closely they listen. As my care progressed, the functional health team, led by Dr. Christina Matheus-Lozano, DNP-C and supported by Beth Lang PA-C, noticed patterns in my labs that warranted a deeper look. They recommended additional testing, not because something was wrong, but because something could eventually become wrong if left unaddressed. That proactive approach led to early intervention that helped circumvent potential health issues before they became bigger and far more serious. It was a reminder that true wellness is preventative, not reactive.
From there, everything else I do at Eden supports peak performance. I still train consistently, using movement to build strength and resilience. Recovery is treated with equal importance. Infrared sauna sessions help with circulation, muscle recovery, and stress reduction. Red light therapy supports cellular repair, inflammation management, and overall vitality.
Massage and compression therapy are woven into my routine, and I often use IV therapy as working time while I sit with my laptop. As a busy working mom, this level of optimization allows me to run my business and my life with strength, focus, and consistency.
Eden Health Club is not about extremes or quick fixes. It is about building a body and a mind that can keep up with the life you want to live. It is about being surrounded by people who are invested in your long game and who believe that peak performance and longevity go hand in hand.
For me, Eden has become a cornerstone of how I live. I am stronger, clearer, and more grounded than I have ever been. And that, more than anything, is why I keep coming back.
a limited time, you are invited to schedule a comprehensive functional medicine consultation with our compliments (a $100 value)
“Eden is filled with incredibly smart people who truly care about
BetsyByMarr
beyond the creek
Thinking Inside the Box
Nearly two decades ago, The Refrigerator Box began as a simple creative writing assignment. Written by Ellese Symons during her senior year at Cherry Creek High School, the story captured a childhood truth she knew well: that the simplest objects often spark the biggest adventures. A cardboard box could become anything, and imagination was the most powerful toy of all.
The story might have stayed in a classroom binder if not for one devoted reader. Symons’ grandmother kept every piece of her writing, but this story stood out. She believed in it fiercely, insisting it should one day become a real children’s book. That belief stayed with Symons long after the assignment was graded and filed away. When her grandmother passed away this past summer, Symons rediscovered the story among her saved papers. Reading it again, now as a mother of two, she saw it through new eyes. What once felt playful now felt timeless. Publishing The Refrigerator Box became both a creative milestone and a deeply personal tribute. A quiet guardian angel appears throughout the book, a nod to the grandmother who watched over Symons’ childhood and never stopped seeing possibility in her.
The story follows siblings Cooper and Kennedy (named for Symons’ own children), who quickly tire of the latest toys until an empty refrigerator box changes everything. Inside it, they travel to outer space, explore the jungle, and dive beneath the sea. Each adventure celebrates imagination over excess, reminding readers that the memories that last longest are born from creativity, not possessions.
As Symons beautifully captures, “The greatest childhood adventures and some of the memories that last forever are born from pure imagination.”
beyond the creek
The Broadmoor & more
The magenta blue-colored bowling ball slowly rolled across the glossy lane, ricocheting off the bumpers before cleanly toppling eight of the 10 pins at its 60-foot destination.
What ensued was a priceless reaction from one of The Broadmoor’s littlest but most fierce competitors. The crowd went wild. A Shirley Temple soft drink and a mouthful of French fries would soon become a large part of this unforgettable celebration for a 7-year-old who now wants to bowl as often as his parents’ schedule will allow.
It was but one of countless spectacular experiences that this world-renowned hotel would provide for our family, as we introduced this iconic property that opened its doors back in 1918 to our two boys for the first time.
What accompanies this stunning masterpiece of hospitality is a beyond-compare collage of architecture, interior design, fine dining, outdoor magnificence, swimming pool and hot tub, top tier health and wellness, endless sport activities, and lodging accommodations that check every box in mitigating so many of the excruciating challenges that a family can face traveling with kids of any age.
It is as luxe a family playground as one can find. No one else does it like The Broadmoor does it.
It truly is something derived from a fairytale. Start with just entering the grounds on arrival. Nothing is more grand with the long looping main drive, giant fir trees, gardens and fountain. It’s all another world. Sparkling chandeliers, magnificent wallpaper, elegant tile and marble floors, elegant drapes and window coverings, premium woodwork – and this is just in Broadmoor Main where you initially check in. It’s an amazing first impression and it doesn’t stop. Stroll outside for 60 seconds and you know, or while at any of the 20 restaurants, cafes and lounges.
Then there’s’ the attention to detail and service. Once inside our lakeside apartment, it was impossible for the boys to miss the giant yellow chocolate bee with a small wooden mallet to crack open its interior of jellybeans and gummy bears. The balcony overlooking Cheyenne Lake and the stunning backdrop of Cheyenne Mountain is perfect for losing yourself in a sleepy gaze, reading, earbuds, coffee and/ or the bottle of Veuve provided for our welcome.
FOR HER: Tucked within the grandeur of the property, The Broadmoor Spa feels like a destination unto itself and a welcome counterpoint to days spent exploring every corner of the resort. Calm, expansive, and beautifully designed, the spa features a full thermal experience including sauna and steam rooms, an oxygen room, and multiple quiet spaces meant for lingering between treatments rather than rushing back to real life.
I booked an 80-minute poultice massage, a deeply restorative treatment that delivered exactly what it promised. Thoughtful, unhurried, and expertly executed, it was the kind of massage that recalibrates both body and brain. Post-treatment, I slipped outside to the open-air whirlpool, where steam rose against the mountain air and time felt pleasantly irrelevant.
Earlier in the day, I took advantage of Broadmoor’s fitness center, which is impressively equipped and refreshingly uncrowded. Between the gym, the spa, and the pools, it is easy to build an entire wellness day without ever leaving the property, and even easier to forget that you should probably be checking email.
FOR HIM: Not sure The Broadmoor has left anything out when it comes to entertaining any man who steps foot on the property. You a golfer? Walk the fairways and figure out the greens on their two championship courses that have hosted the likes of Jack Nicklaus, Bing Crosby, Bob Hope and President Dwight Eisenhower. Want a different kind of challenge? You’re at the gateway to hiking, biking, river rafting, fly fishing, rock climbing, ziplining, and Seven Falls waterfall. Hit the spa, massage, and the dangerously addicting hot tub and pool. Or do nothing and chill. There’s no wrong answer at The Broadmoor.
It is as luxe a family playground as one can find. No one else does it like The Broadmoor does it.”
FOR THE KIDS: Our oldest son won’t stop talking about bowling at The Broadmoor and his introduction to pickleball and the wonderful lesson he received from Milo the instructor. The indoor pool was another gift from The Broadmoor gods, along with merely running around and exploring outside while gawking at the swans and ducks on Cheyenne Lake. If your children are older – and if you can tear the iPhone out of their clutched hands– the possibilities are endless with all the hotel’s activities.
FAVORITE FARE
HE: The single most delicious bite of pasta ever experienced. He needed a wheelchair after experiencing Ristorante Del Lago’s Delicata Squash Ravioli with its Zucca and Ricotta filling, Valserena butter and Parmiagiano, roasted Piedmont hazelnuts and sage. He’d drive down from Denver and head home right after for this dish if he had to. Second place went to The Penrose Room’s Thai Barbequed Red Snapper, which was coupled with black garlic fried rice, Bok Choy, grilled pineapple and Serrano pepper relish and, of course, their legendary tableside-prepared Caesar Salad.
SHE: My favorite on-property restaurant was, somewhat unexpectedly, Ristorante Del Lago. Light, elegant, and quietly confident, it delivered one of the most balanced meals of the trip. I opted for the Pappardelle al Cinghiale with braised Kurobuta pork ragu, red wine, rosemary, sage, and stewed cherry tomatoes. Rich without being heavy, it struck that elusive sweet spot between indulgence and restraint.
Brunch, however, was truly over the top. It was the most indulgent buffet I have ever experienced, a sweeping display of nearly every delicacy imaginable. Eggs Benedict, prime rib, house-made pastries, waffles, pristine fruit, crab and other seafood, even sushi, all beautifully presented and impossibly tempting. And then there was the espresso martini, monogrammed with the iconic Broadmoor “B,” which may very well have been the best I’ve ever had and a fitting exclamation point to an already unforgettable meal. Penrose Room also deserves mention. While I admittedly missed the nostalgia of the live band and dance floor, the newly renovated space is undeniably stunning. The experience leans theatrical in the best way, with tableside martinis, classic Caesar salad preparation, carved steaks, and a dramatic baked Alaska that feels equal parts dinner and show.
THE BOYS: Sunday Brunch at Lake Terrace Dining Room was the place to be for everyone, with special attention to one picky eater of a boy and another fearless 5-year-old who’ll consume anything not nailed down (until he gets a hammer to dislodge the nails or just eats around them). Bacon, pancakes, croissants, breakfast cakes, and endless choices of fresh fruit shut them up long enough to make this decadent setting feel more like a family meal and not their usual convention of whining and complaining. Second place was any of the other restaurants that featured mac n cheese, grilled cheese, fries, and cheeseburgers which, thankfully, were all of them.
They create memories here at this mountainside oasis. That pasta dish for him set the bar. Those few precious, uninterrupted hours after dinner for her sans husband and kids with a glass of bubbly while texting with friends will always be remembered. Breaking open a chocolate bee with a mallet will never be forgotten by our sons.
Sometimes it’s the little things. Sometimes it’s the big things. Leave it to The Broadmoor to cover both. -Kevin & Betsy Marr
GOOD FOOD MEETS GREAT COMPANY at CLAYTON
There’s a renewed sense of warmth at Clayton Hotel & Members Club, where wood-fired pizzas, charcoal-grilled favorites, and Italianinspired dishes are crafted with intention. Linger a little longer and enjoy the company
PERFECT
HOURS IN CHERRY CREEK 36
Friday Evening
4 p.m. | Check into The Clayton Members Club & Hotel
Begin your weekend by settling into one of Cherry Creek’s most exclusive addresses. The Clayton is equal parts boutique hotel, social club, and design destination. The rooms are serene, sophisticated, and impossibly comfortable, setting the tone for everything that follows.
6 p.m. | Cocktails in the Second Floor Lounge
Before heading out, stop into the second floor lounge for a perfectly made cocktail in an atmosphere that feels intimate, polished, and quietly glamorous. It is the kind of place where conversations linger and the lighting always flatters.
7 p.m. | Dinner at the Rooftop Restaurant
Head upstairs for dinner with a view. The Clayton’s rooftop restaurant delivers elevated cuisine paired with sweeping city sights. As the sun dips below the skyline, Cherry Creek begins to glow, and your weekend officially begins.
Saturday Morning
8:30 a.m. | Breakfast at Olive & Finch
There are weekends that fill your calendar, and then there are weekends that fill your soul. Cherry Creek was built for the latter. From rooftop cocktails and gallery stops to decadent dinners and restorative self-care, this 36-hour itinerary proves that you do not need a boarding pass to feel transported.
Start your day the Cherry Creek way with breakfast at Olive & Finch. The bakery cases are a love letter to morning indulgence, from flaky pastries to perfectly crafted breakfast plates. Grab a seat, sip your coffee slowly, and watch the neighborhood come to life.
10 a.m. | Shopping the Creek
Cherry Creek shopping is not about rushing. It is about discovery. Pop into MAX for curated luxury staples, A-Line for fashion that feels both wearable and editorial, Garbarini for designer treasures, and Veronica Beard for effortless polish. This stretch alone could occupy an entire afternoon, but you are just getting started.
Saturday Afternoon
12:30 p.m. | Lunch at Hillstone
Yes, it is a chain. And yes, it remains one of the liveliest, most consistently satisfying lunches in the Creek. Hillstone is where the booths are always full, the martinis are always cold, and the people watching is unmatched. Order the classics and do not overthink it.
2:30 p.m. | A Culture Fix at The Atelier by Relevant Galleries
After lunch, trade fashion for fine art. The Atelier by Relevant Galleries offers a refined, approachable way to experience contemporary art in an intimate, gallery setting. It is inspiring without being intimidating, and the perfect reminder that Cherry Creek’s culture runs deeper than its storefronts.
Saturday EVENING
6:30 p.m. | Dinner at Alteno Alteno is not just a restaurant. It is an experience. This is where time slows, courses unfold thoughtfully, and every bite feels intentional. It is the kind of dinner you talk about long after the plates are cleared. Dress for the occasion, linger over every course, and allow yourself to be fully present.
9:00 p.m. | Nightcap at Mar Bella Boqueria
End the evening at Mar Bella Boqueria with a nightcap that leans just indulgent enough. The energy is warm, the wine list is excellent, and the atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between lively and intimate. It is the ideal exhale after an unforgettable dinner.
Sunday Morning
9 a.m. | Coffee and Pastries at Aviano Sunday begins gently at Aviano. Order your favorite espresso, choose a pastry that feels slightly irresponsible, and enjoy the slow rhythm of a Cherry Creek morning. This is the pause your weekend deserves.
11 a.m. | Time to Pamper
Now it is time to fully lean into self care. Start with a massage at Bangkok Massage, where skilled hands and calming spaces reset both body and mind. Then head to Nail Fix and Mani Pedi Cherry Creek for a polished finish. This is the moment where your weekend shifts from indulgent to restorative.
black book
The Clayton: 303.551.1600, 233 Clayton Ln
Olive & Finch: 303.955.0455, 3390 E 1st Ave
MAX: 303.321.4949, 250 Columbine St
A-Line Boutique: 303.773.8200, 3050 E 3rd Ave
Garbarini: 303.333.8687, 2750 E. 3rd Ave
Veronica Beard: 303.285.0223, 250 Columbine St
Hillstone Cherry Creek: 303.321.3863, 303 Josephine St
The Atelier by Relev́ant Galleries: 720.577.4312, 180 Clayton Ln
Alteño: 303.532.4999, 249 Clayton St
Mar Bella Boqueria: 303.955.3574, 233 Clayton St
Aviano Coffee: 303.399.2304, 244 Detroit St
Bangkok Massage Studio: 720.504.3223, 3003 E. 3rd Ave
Mani/Pedi Cherry Creek: 303.394.0880, 201 Milwaukee St
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- DIRECTION -
A ROSE WITH NO THORNS ROSEWOOD MAYAKOBA
BY KEVIN MARR
MEXICO’S ROSEWOOD MAYAKOBA LEAVES YOU WANTING FOR NOTHING EXCEPT
I thought I was dead.
How else could I be this relaxed without a hint of stress and a pinchmyself-moment to ensure that what I was experiencing wasn’t just my first allusion of serenity through those pearly gates of Heaven?
In over a dozen years of doing travel coverage, I have never used the word “elite.”
It’s a slippery slope because you never know what you might experience next that could make that word seem like a reckless, inthe-moment superlative.
The stunning images online don’t do the property justice. And they were really beautiful pictures.
AN IMMEDIATE RETURN
The cinema jungle green rain forest setting that unites with the screen saver vision of sandy private beach brought me to almost immediately conclude the ultimate compliment that I could ever provide Rosewood Mayakoba…If I had to go back to the airport and fly back to Denver after only two hours here, it was worth it.
Under my lucky stars, I had three nights ahead of me to pay witness to this gift of an experience.
A duffy boat taxis me to the private dock of my residence. I paused before getting out because it didn’t seem real. If there was a camera rolling on my reaction to my arrival, I’m quite certain that I resembled a large-mouthed bass. But let’s play it cool. I’ve seen this before. (I hadn’t ever seen this before and I’ve stayed at some of the most prestigious properties anywhere).
I was told that my butler would be meeting me shortly to go over any needs during my stay. So, while I waited for Jeeves to arrive (his name turned out to be Alberto, a beyond-likable father of two children close in age to my own two sons), I familiarized myself with a Mezcal bottle, the hand-written greeting to me, the lagoon suite layout, and the callto-me pool in the backyard, steps from the dock.
Once I finally went into the front yard, I noticed the prescribed beach cruiser at my disposal that would quickly become my best friend in exploring this undeniable dream.
The nine miles of lagoon that snakes through the heart of Mayakoba serves as the most romantic corridor that one could imagine. Granted, there are signs warning you of crocodiles that strongly encourage one to not channel their inner-Aqua Man or mermaid after a few too many mango margaritas. However, on the spectacular eco tour that all guests are privy to, the croc I saw was on the smaller size and just happy to be sunning itself on a large rock.
THE FOOD
While the raccoons, iguanas, turtles, crocodiles and the rest of the Mayakoba Zoo don’t seem to be going hungry, neither are the resort’s guests. Under the direction of Executive Chef Edgar Chavez, this culinary program should be the example of how a resort can execute award-winning cuisine to hundreds of people at a time. An all-star team of chefs have you smiling after every. single. dish.
The freshest, most pristine fish that will ever hit your taste buds reside here. Couple that with the spectacular spices and the sauces, and I found myself on a large sea life diet by choice. This cooking crew was beyond comprehension with its mastery in the kitchen. Rosewood, as a brand, doesn’t mess around. Anyone who has experienced any of their properties knows the nearly impossible standards that they hold themselves to. If you’re waiting for something to cross your plate that isn’t otherworldly, then you’ve discovered the definition of an exercise in futility.
Oh yeah…Michelin Star chef Johnny Curiel was here too as the highlighted chef. I can’t seem to get away from this guy (see our cover and Johnny Be Good feature in our last issue). And the pleasure is always all mine. His Baja bluefin with dried chili sauce, burnt habanero mayonnaise and Beluga caviar drew a line of guests hungry for more, resulting in more than a few requested pictures with the Denver maestro of menu nosh.
THE SPA
There are spas, and then there’s this needs-to-be-seen-to-be-believed creation from another planet.
Sense, A Rosewood Spa is a sight like no other. Its tucked away corner shrouded in tropical jungle and secluded from the rest of the resort makes it a private portal destination within the Mayakoba destination. In fact, I spent two days at Sense for an average of three hours a day…and it was absolutely glorious.
I’ve never been in a sauna that appeared waiting for you with towels laid out in anticipation, and accompanied with cold face towels with a hint of rosemary for your skin and eyes. Again…beyond thoughtful service and thinking ahead to what the guests would need. And the guest gets everything here and more. The largest cold plunge you’ve ever seen coupled with a spacious whirlpool to soak and stretch. Not to mention the never-ending delicious consumption of pineapple infusion, strawberry juice and cucumber water between my rotation of 20 minutes in the cold plunge, 20 minutes in the sauna, and then the whirlpool before repeating it all over again. There’s a world-class fitness center and outdoor pool exclusive to adults. A private, secret getaway. Yoga. Pilates. Meditation and sound healing meditation. Core training. And eight overnight wellness suites if you want to go all in and have everything at your fingertips here in Mayakoba’s world of wellness.
The treatments and backdrop are what you’d come to expect by now, but it doesn’t make it any less magnificent. Beneath the calm of lush-treed shelter, winding stone paths through luxuriant foliage reveal the experience to come by its mere passage to get there. And “there” is a remote, undisturbed suite that blends in perfectly with this outdoor paradise. When my massage was done, the therapist told me what they always say, “Take your time. I’ll be waiting outside when you’re ready.”
Only, this time was different.
And I told her as much when I explained, “If I truly took my time, then you’d be standing out here for an hour.” I’ve never wanted to move less in my life. This wellness cocoon had consumed me to the degree that I didn’t want to go anywhere but back to sleep in nirvana.
When I was upright and lucid during Mayakoba, I met some of the loveliest people. Of course, everyone is happy as hell to unwind here at Mexico Shangri La. I made lasting friendships from London, Ireland, Charleston, Houston, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Baltimore.
And then there are the unforgettable connections fostered with everyone who is making your stay here flawless. Everyone working at Mayakoba is family, and they want to meet you. They want to know you. It’s authentic. It’s a beautiful reminder of how the Mexican culture is all about community and love and family.
THE BEACH
Quiet. Soothing. Sublime. A beach for adults. A beach for the kids whom you don’t necessarily want to see for a few hours. Not open to the public, this sandy stretch of still, calming aqua caters to whatever ails. I finally had to stop taking video and pictures, and just breathe it all in. It is so easy to unplug here. Dotted with fishing boats, the occasional jet skier, miles of coastline for leisurely walks or more intense workouts, Mexico’s signature palm trees reminding you that you’re where you absolutely need to be are all chaperoned by that slight salt water breeze and the hypnotizing wafts of the tropics.
It’s a trip that started out as a bucket list, and it now has transitioned to my grocery list…something I’m going need every couple of weeks.
As they say at Rosewood Mayakoba…Welcome Home.
EDITOR’S NOTE...
Two helpful tips I will share with you…
The mosquitoes ate as well as I did down here, primarily on my lower left leg, so remember repellant. It’s its own sport for these flying miniature munchers.
Be very careful wearing a white shirt. The humidity is very real. In an unbelievably regrettable move, I wore a white dress shirt to a fancy dinner, and once we moved on to Zapote Bar, I was unwittingly providing a wet t-shirt contest that was neither requested nor remotely appreciated by all its patrons.
Chef Johnny Curiel asked me between sips of his Mezcal if I had fallen into the lagoon.
ESCAPE TO VAIL
Wake up to a hot breakfast at your door and enjoy a cup of coffee with views of the fresh mountain snow. Don your ski gear and head over to Basecamp, where your freshly tuned skis and warm boots are waiting for you to hit the slopes. Revive your tired muscles with a recovery massage before Après-ski with your fellow Owners before retiring to the comfort of your vacation residence.
Welcome to life at the Residences at The Sebastian – Vail, a prestigious Private Residence Club nestled in the heart of Vail Village. With recent renovations and unmatched five-star services and amenities, the Residences offers a seamless and hassle-free way to own a vacation home in our beloved Rocky Mountains destination.
Embrace the endless possibilities and adventures awaiting you in Vail. Discover the unparalleled fractional ownership opportunities at the Residences at The Sebastian – Vail.
home COMING ART ABOUNDS IN ASPEN
Some homes do not announce themselves. They do not rely on dramatic architecture or sweeping statements to make their point. Instead, they reveal who they are slowly, through proportion, texture, and the feeling that everything is exactly where it should be. Such was the case with this West End Aspen abode. Originally built as a spec home, it offered a beautiful framework, but it was the thoughtful layering of furnishings, lighting, and personal details that transformed it into a residence that feels collected, grounded, and unmistakably personal.
When When designers Brook Sherick + Courtenay Wright of Aspen’s Forum Phi first walked through the space, they were struck not by what needed to be changed, but by what could be added. The home was well crafted and thoughtfully laid out, yet intentionally neutral. “It felt like a blank canvas,” they explain. “The bones were there, but it needed character. Our goal was to bring in warmth and personality without disrupting the integrity of the home.”
Rather than overhaul the architecture, the approach focused on nuance. Organic materials, rich yet restrained textures, and tonal layering became the tools for elevating the space while keeping it approachable. The aim was never to make the home feel overly designed. “We wanted it to feel clean and calm, but also comfortable,” the designers say. “A home that invites you in and encourages you to stay.”
The true touchstone for the project, however, was the homeowners themselves. Designed as a seasonal retreat, the house needed to function effortlessly across both winter and summer, accommodating extended stays, family gatherings, and the quieter rhythms of vacation life. The clients arrived with a clear sense of who they were and how they wanted to live, then offered the designers creative freedom to interpret that vision. “They set the direction and trusted us,” the team notes. “That level of trust allowed the design to feel cohesive, elevated, and even a little playful.”
Drawing inspiration from the Aspen landscape as well as the clients’ international background, the design balances a strong sense of place with a broader cultural perspective. Natural textures reference the surrounding environment, while understated elegance keeps the home feeling timeless rather than trend driven. “We were interested in creating something rooted in Aspen, but not predictable,” the designers explain. “It needed to feel personal to the clients, not like a version of mountain style you’ve seen before.”
Because the scope of work centered primarily on furnishings, decorative lighting, accessories, and select millwork additions, the transformation revealed itself gradually, culminating on install day. “That was the moment everything came alive,” they say. “With a furniture focused project, all the magic happens when the pieces arrive and start talking to each other.” Custom lighting and mixed metals helped unify the home, adding depth and cohesion without altering the underlying structure.
WORDS BY BETSY MARR | INTERIOR DESIGN : BROOK SHERICK + COURTENAY WRIGHT, FORUM PHI | PHOTOS: DALLAS + HARRIS
THIS PAGE: The living-and-dining great room is the project in one frame. Warm wood overhead, sculptural lighting, and calm tonal layers that make a spec build feel collected. It’s the home’s true “come together” moment: designed for conversation, comfort, and long, unhurried meals.
Working within the constraints of a spec home presented its own creative challenge. With limited flexibility around architectural elements and materials, the designers relied on layering and detail to elevate the experience. Thoughtfully placed lighting, natural finishes, and a careful mix of metals brought a sense of intention to each space, proving that transformation does not always require reconstruction.
At the heart of the home, the living and dining areas stand out as the most expressive rooms. This is where the personality of the house fully reveals itself. “It’s where everything comes together,” the designers note. “Those spaces set the tone for how the home is used and enjoyed.” Designed for gathering, conversation, and lingering meals, the rooms strike a balance between refinement and ease.
One of the most personal elements of the home is the artwork, integrated in close collaboration with the clients. Each piece carries its own history and emotional weight, subtly shaping the mood of the rooms it inhabits. “The art was essential,” the designers say. “It makes the home feel like a true extension of who they are, rather than just a beautifully designed interior.” These moments of personal expression ensure the house feels lived in, layered, and authentic.
Throughout the project, signature elements appear with a lighter touch. Natural textures, tonal palettes, and artisanal pieces are woven in thoughtfully, never competing for attention. Asked to describe the home in three words, the designers land on refined, thoughtful, and welcoming, an assessment that feels both accurate and understated.
More broadly, the project reflects an evolution in how they approach design. “This home is as much about relationship as it is about form,” they explain. “Understanding how the clients live, what they value, and how they move through a space is what allows the design to feel real.” It is a philosophy that favors dialogue over declaration, and one that shows in every room.
In the end, this home is defined not by a single moment or statement, but by its cohesion. Every detail feels considered, yet nothing feels forced. It is a house designed to support real life, seasonal living, and meaningful connection. In a place known for spectacle, its confidence lies in its restraint, a quiet assurance that some homes do not need to announce themselves at all.
TOP: The dining area was designed as a gathering space first, balancing refinement with ease. Clean lines, warm wood, and statement lighting make it feel elevated, without ever tipping into “show home.”
CENTER: In the living room, layered textiles and organic forms soften the architecture and keep the atmosphere quietly welcoming. The palette stays calm, while texture—stone, wood, and upholstered pieces—does the storytelling.
RIGHT: A custom millwork wall adds function and visual rhythm, one of the project’s select structural upgrades. It’s the designers’ signature approach in action: elevate through detail, not demolition.
Experience Beaver Creek from its most inspiring vantage point — The Westin Riverfront. Nestled among the Rocky Mountains and the Eagle River, this alpine retreat offers spacious studios to luxurious threebedroom residences perfect for every generation, recently redesigned for modern comfort and connection. Begin your mornings with a private gondola ride into outdoor adventure, then unwind in riverside hot tubs as the sun dips behind the peaks. With inspired dining and a wellness-driven spirit, The Westin Riverfront captures the essence of the Vail Valley.
I’veBY JUAN PADRO
spent my entire career building restaurants, incubating chefs, and creating spaces where talent can rise. But the deeper truth is that my understanding of food—what it means, what it carries, what it protects— began long before I ever opened a restaurant.
It began with my father.
My dad was a jíbaro from the mountains of Puerto Rico, literally born on the side of a hill. A mountain man in every sense—resourceful, proud, stubborn, and shaped by a life that demanded resilience. I understood his struggle not because he talked about it, but because he cooked it. The beans simmered slowly on the stove, the rice cooked with intention, the pork marinated with memory. They were lessons. His food told the story of where he came from and what he endured to make a life for us.
Food, to me, has never been just food. It’s identity. It’s survival. It’s hope. It’s how people tell the truth about who they are. And that belief has only grown stronger through the people I love.
My partner, Diana Flores, is a chef from Honduras. She comes from an extremely dangerous country dominated by organized crime and a profoundly corrupt government. She grew up in Mara Salvatrucha, a neighborhood controlled by violent gangs, where daily life demanded resilience and constant awareness. Leaving that environment to build a new life in Colorado for herself and her children took extraordinary courage. The way she cooks, the tenderness she brings to feeding her family, the humility she carries— all of it reminds me of why food matters. Her story, like my father’s, shows that cuisine is often born from struggle, and that a plate of food can be an act of survival as much as an act of creativity.
These are the stories that shaped me.
These are the stories that shape the chefs I incubate.
And these are the stories that shape the restaurants I gravitate toward.
Which is why I spend so much time in Aurora.
AURORA IS THE CULTURAL ENGINE THAT KEEPS OUR REGION’S CUISINE HONEST, DIVERSE, SOULFUL, AND CONNECTED TO THE PEOPLE WHO BUILT IT.”
-Juan Padro
WHY AURORA MATTERS
(AND WHY DENVER SHOULD PAY ATTENTION)
Cherry Creek is beautiful. It is stylish, polished, and home to restaurants that know how to create an atmosphere. I respect the operators who run those places—they execute at a high level, and they know their audience. But when you peel back the onion, Cherry Creek represents something else too: a culinary identity built largely on corporate structures and concept groups.
Denver is drifting that way as well. Rising costs, regulatory pressure, and the economics of the industry make it increasingly difficult for independent operators—especially those with immigrant roots—to survive, let alone flourish.
If we’re not careful, we’ll wake up one day and realize we have a city full of beautifully designed dining rooms with very little cultural depth.
Aurora is the antidote. Aurora is the counterweight.
Aurora is the cultural engine that keeps our region’s cuisine honest, diverse, soulful, and connected to the people who built it. And nowhere is that more evident than at Dan Da, my favorite restaurant in Colorado.
THE HEART OF AURORA: DAN DA
Chef An Nguyen is the kind of chef who humbles you. As someone who works with chefs every day—who studies technique, nurtures talent, and builds platforms for people to shine—I can tell you she is operating at the highest level in Colorado.
Her story begins long before Dan Da. It begins with her family.
“My family has been in Denver’s Vietnamese restaurant scene for decades,” she told me. “My parents’ restaurant, New Saigon, became a quiet pioneer. It influenced so many Vietnamese menus across the state.”
New Saigon was, and remains, one of the foundational restaurants in Colorado’s culinary history. Many Vietnamese restaurateurs built their menus by learning from what her parents created. When the economics and political climate of Denver made it too difficult for their kind of restaurant to thrive, Chef An moved to Aurora. It wasn’t retreat. It was a rebirth.
Her food reflects that entirely.
It is rooted in the traditions of her parents’ kitchen, but elevated by her own precision and her lived experience growing up between cultures. “My cooking is rooted in traditional Vietnamese techniques,” she explained. “The meticulous prep, the patience of slow-cooked broths, the slow-simmered Kho, the controlled high heat of the wok that gives certain dishes a kiss of fire.”
Then she said something that has stayed with me.
“I cook the way I remember a dish made me feel. Every plate becomes a love letter to the legacy I inherited and where I hope to take it.”
Dan Da is not just another restaurant. It is a cultural anchor.
It is the continuation of a legacy that shaped Denver. And it could only happen in Aurora.
AURORA’S GLOBAL TABLE:
THE RESTAURANTS WE SWEAR BY
URBAN
BURMA — Mango House (Featuring Siri Tan)
At Mango House, a multicultural food hall serving refugee communities, Siri Tan cooks the dishes he grew up with in Burma. His Shan noodles, tea leaf salad, and mohinga carry his childhood, his family, and the emotional weight of moving between worlds. His food feels like memory on a plate—gentle, sincere, grounded.
TOFU STORY
Tofu Story is a place chefs talk about with deep respect. Housemade tofu is an art, and the restaurant practices it with precision. The broths are delicate, the textures purposeful, the flavors layered but restrained. It’s the kind of place that reminds cooks what discipline tastes like.
CUBAN BAKERY & CAFÉE
WHY I CARE (AND WHY YOU SHOULD TOO)
People sometimes ask why I care so deeply about culinary identity, cultural preservation, and creating equitable pathways for chefs and independent operators. The answer is rooted in my own story. Food is how I see the quiet strength of immigrants who rebuild their lives one dish at a time.
These experiences inform the work I do. They shape how I foster chefs, how I build businesses, and how I advocate for fairness in an industry that too often overlooks the people who carry its soul. Aurora doesn’t compete with Denver; it strengthens Denver. It protects Denver’s culinary identity at a time when it is most at risk. If Denver wants to be a truly great food city—not just a stylish one—it needs the people, the cultures, and the kitchens that thrive in Aurora.
THE FUTURE
This cafe is a portal into Little Havana. Guava pastelitos flake in your hands, the Cuban coffee hits like a warm embrace, and the croquetas taste like someone’s grandmother made them. It’s comfort. It’s joy. It’s authenticity without pretense.
BUA THAI — Chef/Owner Bua Sitthivong
Chef Bua brings Thai and Lao food that tastes like the real thing. The balance—acid, heat, herbs, funk—is executed with the confidence of someone who cooks from memory, not from a template. It’s the kind of food that teaches you something.
SEOUL KOREAN BBQ & HOT POT
This family-owned spot is where we go to eat like cooks eatabundantly, loudly, with laughter and steam rising from the table. The marinades, kimchi, banchan, and broths are soulful, expressive, and deeply rooted in Korean culinary tradition.
I advocate for chefs because I believe food can bridge cultures. I build equitable businesses because I know what inequity costs—not just economically, but emotionally and generationally. I champion Aurora because it represents what great cities preserve, not what they erase. A city’s culinary greatness is defined by the depth of its cultural expression, not by the polish of its buildings.
If Denver wants depth, identity, and soul, it must uplift the people who carry those things, and right now, many of those people— many of those stories, traditions, and legacies—are in Aurora. The future of Denver’s culinary landscape will depend on whether we choose to honor and support them.
Juan Padro is a restaurateur and founder of The Culinary Creative Group. He is deeply committed to protecting the cultural roots of Colorado’s food community.
MD2 Brings Unparalleled Standard of Personalized Care to Cherry Creek North
MD2 (“MD squared”), the pioneer of concierge medicine, has expanded its presence in Denver by opening its second practice, MD2 Cherry Creek North. Long recognized for reimagining the patient-physician relationship, MD2 offers something rare: Each physician cares for just 50 families. The intentionally small panel enables deep relationships, proactive prevention and a level of access and attention virtually unheard of in traditional healthcare settings.
The new office is led by Dr. Francie Palmer and Dr. Brandon Combs, two respected physicians in Denver. Together, they will provide comprehensive primary and preventive care, urgent care, chronic disease management, complex care coordination and medical advocacy—all grounded in deep, long-term relationships with their patients.
Answering Local Demand
With the original Denver location at capacity and a waitlist, MD2 opened its Cherry Creek North practice to meet community demand. The Denver metro area continues to welcome residents, and access to high-touch, primary care has become increasingly limited. MD2 was designed to solve that problem. By capping patient panels and removing administrative barriers, MD2 physicians can take the time to truly know the people under their care.
“With only 50 families under my care, I have the time to care for my patients in a comprehensive, in-depth manner that was increasingly challenging to accomplish in our current primary care environment,” says Dr. Palmer. “That depth of relationship changes everything about how I can practice medicine. This is truly primary care medicine practiced in the ideal.”
Meet The Physicians
Francie Palmer, MD, has more than 27 years of clinical experience and a deeply patient-centered approach to primary care. A graduate of the University of Virginia School of Medicine, she completed her residency and chief residency at the University of Rochester Strong Memorial Hospital. Dr. Palmer has practiced internal medicine across the Denver area and has held academic positions at the University of
Chicago, Northwestern University and the University of Colorado. She is known for her expertise in managing patient care, achieving high patient satisfaction and maintaining a commitment to individualized, holistic care for all her patients.
Brandon Combs, MD, FACP, brings more than 15 years of experience in internal medicine, partnering with patients to make informed, practical decisions that improve health and quality of life. An AOA graduate of Saint Louis University School of Medicine, he completed his residency at the University of Colorado and served on faculty at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, where he achieved the rank of Associate Professor of Medicine. A Fellow of the American College
“With only 100 families under our care, we have the time to care for our patients in a comprehensive, in-depth manner that was increasingly challenging to accomplish in our current primary care environment.”
-Francie Palmer, MD & Brandon Combs, MD, FACP
of Physicians, Dr. Combs has received multiple awards for clinical excellence and has been recognized as one of Denver’s Top Doctors.
MD2 physicians are available to their patients anytime—day or night, by phone, text or in person. They attend specialist appointments, provide care at home or work, curate personalized travel kits and coordinate emergency medical evacuations.
“For many patients, the first visit is a turning point,” says Dr. Combs. “Outside forces have reshaped how primary care is practiced today, often limiting physicians’ time. At MD2, families experience what healthcare can feel like when time is no longer a limiting factor. We’re able to practice medicine in a more thoughtful and personal way.”
The MD² Origin Story
Dr. Howard Maron founded MD2 in 1996 based on a single question: What would it mean to practice medicine in the ideal? By pairing two world-class physicians with a panel of 50 families each, Dr. Maron changed concierge medicine.
“Nearly 30 years ago, MD2 set out to redefine what was possible in personalized healthcare, establishing a model that has since expanded to more than 40 practices nationwide,” says Sean Kell, CEO of MD2. “There’s strong interest in the new MD2 Cherry Creek North practice, driven by a community that values proactive, relationship-based healthcare. We’re excited to expand this model of care in Denver with physicians who share our commitment.”
MD2 Cherry Creek North includes unlimited physician access and in-office services for a monthly fee—with no insurance forms, surprise charges or extended wait times.
To inquire about becoming one of the 100 families at MD2 Cherry Creek North, visit www.md2.com or call (303) 376-7294.
MD2 is conveniently located in the heart of Cherry Creek North: 3033 East First Avenue, Suite 401 • Denver, Colorado 80206
LOVE CREEK in the
In Cherry Creek, some of the most enduring love stories are also business stories. In this series, we’re spotlighting three married couples building the neighborhood together, day by day, with equal parts heart, hustle, and great taste.
words by betsy marr xx photos by carly swan
01: Shelby & Mac Richardson
richardson development • liv sotheby’s international realty
here is a certain kind of couple who can walk through a dusty jobsite and see, instantly, what it will become. Not just the beams and blueprints, but the way a family will move through the kitchen on a busy morning, where the light should land at golden hour, and what a buyer will feel before they even know why. For Shelby and Mac Richardson, that instinct is not just romantic, it is the foundation of how they build their life and their work in Cherry Creek.
Their story began, fittingly, with a gentle overlap. Shelby was in corporate healthcare, entrepreneurial at heart, and increasingly pulled into Mac’s world through the side door, referring business, scouting opportunities, and offering design perspective culled from real life. After a year of thinking it through, she “pulled the trigger,” got her real estate license, and stepped in fully. Mac, for his part, loved that Shelby wanted to be in it with him. He saw her light up in his renovation spaces, the kind of excitement that makes work feel like a calling, and the collaboration simply grew from there.
What makes them work is that they do not pretend to be interchangeable. Mac brings fearlessness, speed, and a sharp, get-it-done hustle, the kind that earns respect from subcontractors because he executes quickly and holds the line on quality. Shelby brings the fine-tooth comb, the market intelligence, the off-market network, and the design vision that starts with one question: how will someone actually live here? Their lanes are clear, and they protect them, Shelby on the design, buying and selling, Mac on construction and contracting. It is practical, yes, but it is also surprisingly tender, a daily choice to trust each other’s expertise.
That trust is on full display in their current “Mona Lisa,” a one-ofa-kind home at Glenmoor Country Club, where true turn-key listings are rare. For six months, they have poured their hearts and souls into it, with Mac handing Shelby the reins on design and encouraging her to push “outside the box” ideas that still speak to a broad market. Their mission was simple: bring character back to new development, and execute at a level you do not usually see in spec homes. Shelby will tell you compromise is a constant, mostly because she has “notoriously expensive taste,” and Mac is the steady hand who reminds her that the numbers matter, too. As she puts it, “the calculator is the boss.”
The details are, predictably, the point. Shelby is proud of the kitchen countertops, a striking Aegean Ceppo marble that sidesteps the usual developer defaults, and Mac can barely hide his love for the craftsmanship, especially the 5,000 square feet of hand-laid wood herringbone floors. This is the kind of house where like the Richardsons themselves, the finishes, layout, and flow do not compete. They collaborate.
And then there is the bigger, bolder heartbeat they are helping shape right in the neighborhood they call home. Under Richardson Development, their new mixed-use project at 2nd and Adams is designed to stitch residential and commercial life together in a way that feels natural, connected, and distinctly Cherry Creek. The headline, though, is culinary: a partnership with Boka Restaurant Group, a Michelin-starred chef, two restaurants, and what Mac promises will be the largest rooftop space in Cherry Creek, with a Mediterranean concept and the kind of energy you usually have to travel for, even in Denver.
Working together, they will tell you, is not for everyone. The myth is that the disagreements come home, but for them, they do not. They resolve things quickly, stay respectful, and when the workday ends, they try to shift fully into marriage mode, sometimes with a hard rule: no shop talk after 6 p.m. (although, like any modern couple, a few debates have apparently made their way onto TikTok and gone viral). The point is not perfection. The point is intention...in the work, in the marriage, and in the spaces they create for everyone else.
couple’s cut with shelby & mac
HOW IT STARTED: Shelby “pulled the trigger,” got her real estate license, and jumped in headfirst
02: Ashley & Tucker Foster
foster & son fine jewelers
ome couples inherit a business. Ashley and Tucker Foster inherited a living scrapbook. Step into Foster & Son Fine Jewelers and you can feel it right away. Not the intimidating hush some jewelry stores cultivate, but something warmer and more human, like you have walked into a place where people are actually known. In a neighborhood that has mastered the art of polish, their appeal is refreshingly authentic in the best way. They are salt of the earth. The kind of people who greet you like a neighbor, not a transaction.
That matters, because this is not just a store. It is one of the oldest stories in Cherry Creek, passed down with the same care as a family heirloom.
The legend begins with Tucker’s grandmother, Patty, who opened her own shop in 1959 after deciding she was done being underestimated. She was a single mother of three, and she built what would become a local institution because, simply put, she knew she could do it better. In early clippings, she is described with the kind of midcentury admiration reserved for women who dared to have both taste and grit: “Gold jewelry gives a woman assurance and poise.” Patty seemed to embody exactly that. Her first store was called The 14 Karat, a name that still echoes today in the tiniest details, like the gift items that have quietly remained part of the mix for decades.
Ask Tucker what it means to be the third generation at the helm and his answer is immediate: it is an honor and a privilege. He loves watches, loves designing custom pieces, loves the idea of taking something from a client’s grandmother and helping shape it into the next heirloom. It is not nostalgia for nostalgia’s sake. It is the craft, and the continuity.
The transition from Tucker’s parents, Brien and Cindi, unfolded in the most Foster way possible: steady, hands-on, and filled with mutual respect. Tucker worked alongside his dad for seven years before Brien retired after five decades in the business. Tucker calls him the “jewelry Yoda,” and the line lands because it is affectionate and true. Brien is still only a phone call away.
Then there is Ashley, who brings the kind of operational brilliance that never seeks applause, but changes everything. She took a paper-based inventory system and gently, persistently pulled it into the present, piece by piece, spreadsheet by spreadsheet. Tag printing. Digital receipts. A streamlined back-of-house that lets the front of house feel effortless. She also shapes the customer experience with a calm, warm confidence. No pushy sales energy, just education, care, and the sense that you are in good hands.
Together, they divide and conquer in a way that feels natural. Tucker often at the front, charismatic and chatty, Ashley in the back, detail-oriented and dialed in. But what is most striking is how little ego is involved. They do not clash. They ask each other questions. They trade roles when needed. They stay in harmony.
That harmony was on full display last April at Denver Country Club, where the family celebrated Brien’s 50 years in jewelry, more than six decades of the store’s presence, and the passing of the torch to Tucker. In true Foster fashion, the party included poster boards covered in years of Christmas cards, thank-you notes, and birth announcements, grouped by family. A love letter to the community, assembled with tape and tenderness. There were happy tears. There were stories. And there was that unmistakable feeling that this business has never been separate from the people it serves.
If you want to understand why the Fosters feel like the most interesting family in Cherry Creek, start with the family tree, which has a way of casually brushing up against American lore. On one branch: New Orleans, Pat O’Brien’s, and the kind of cocktail legend that lives forever in a dim bar and a good story, the invention of the balleyhooed Hurricane cocktail. On another: the publishing and fashion history, via Grace Mirabella, who rose through the ranks at Vogue, worked under the legendary Diana Vreeland, and later became Editor-in-Chief herself, steering the magazine for years before the baton passed to Anna Wintour. And because she was never the type to exit quietly, she went on to launch her own glossy, Mirabella, building an entire publication around her sensibility: polished, intelligent, and for women with full lives. It is the kind of lineage that sounds too cinematic to be true, except it is, and it adds a sly sparkle to the Foster story, a reminder that this family has always been in the business of taste.
Still, for all the interesting branches on the family tree, the heart of the story is simple. A couple building the next chapter together, determined to protect what makes the place special. Tucker says he feels stewardship more than pressure. That is the right word. Because in a neighborhood that moves fast, Foster & Son is the rare constant. Still local, still personal, still trusted.
the couple’s cut with ashley & tucker
THE VIBE: Warm, unpretentious, zero jewelry-store attitude • THIRD-GENERATION TRUTH: It’s stewardship, not pressure • WHERE IT ALL BEGAN: Patty Wolf opened The 14 Karat in 1959 after being dismissed, then built a Cherry Creek institution • THE FAMILY TREE FLEX: Pat O’Brien’s and the Hurricane on one branch, Vogue’s Grace Mirabella on another ON THE PASSING THE TORCH MOMENT: Brien and Cyndi handed the reins to Tucker and Ashley, with Brien a phone call away • ASHLEY’S SIGNATURE MOVE: Dragging inventory into the modern era, from paper to a full digital system • TUCKER’S SWEET SPOT: Watches, custom design, and repurposing heirlooms • HOW THEY WORK TOGETHER: Tucker is often out front, Ashley keeps everything dialed in behind the scenes • WHAT’S NEXT: A new website and online purchasing • REACH THEM: cherrycreekjewelry.com
good shop has a point of view. A great one has a pulse.
At Hat & Hem, the pulse is equal parts style and sincerity, with a welcome that feels less like retail and more like being let in on a secret. It is the kind of place you pop into for “just a minute” and leave an hour later, with a new favorite piece, a hat you did not know you needed, and the oddly buoyant feeling that you were genuinely seen.
That warmth is not accidental. It is the throughline of Janelle and Parker Thomas’s partnership, which started the way so many modern love stories do: side by side, one small show at a time. When they first started dating, Parker was doing pop-ups, and Janelle would pitch in here and there. Over time, the help became a rhythm, then a shared language, then a plan that did not feel like a plan at all. They both always knew they wanted to own boutiques someday, and as their relationship deepened, building something together started to feel inevitable rather than planned.
The moment it moved from idea to reality came with a pivot and a leap of faith. Parker needed to relocate from his previous shop, and as they explored new spaces, the concept of Hat & Hem organically came to life. A couple of months before their wedding, Janelle left her job to commit fully to opening the boutique. It felt scary, she says, but also exactly right.
Inside the shop, their two brands sit together like they always belonged under one roof. Both are rooted in western influence, which gives the space its cohesive thread, but the effect is far from costume. Janelle’s vision is layered and intentional, with western flair softened by a kind of southern hospitality, then sharpened again with bold color, rich fabric, and pieces that feel personal, not mass-produced. She wanted Hat & Hem to feel like an experience, something different from online shopping and cookie-cutter boutiques.
Parker’s side of the room is the craft, the ceremony, the moment you watch steam and skilled hands turn a hat into your hat. Hat-making runs in his family. His dad and grandfather were hat shapers, and while he grew up watching them work, he found his own stride after college, building a modern take that still nods to western culture. His foundation comes from traditional techniques passed down through his family in Wichita Falls, shaped by the toughest critics who made him better, then finished with a distinctly Denver edge that feels wearable for everyday life. His hats are meticulously shaped and finished, honoring time-honored tradition while still feeling current and personal.
The best part is how naturally their roles complement each other. Janelle brings structure, organization, and systems from her retail and management background; Parker brings the entrepreneurial confidence and instinct that keeps them from overthinking. Janelle is the operational anchor. Parker is steady moral support. And the “creative driver” role shifts depending on what the business needs.
Working together has made them notice the parts of each other that used to be invisible in the rush of daily life. It has given them a deeper appreciation, they say, for the long days, the late nights, and the months of effort it takes to build something real. The hardest part is turning it off once they are home, the modern entrepreneur’s curse. The reward is bigger than sales or seasonal trends: creating a space where staff and customers have a great experience and leave feeling good, cared for, and a little more themselves than when they walked in.
Cherry Creek, for them, is not just a business address. It is home. They grew up in the Denver suburbs, now live in the neighborhood, and opening here feels full-circle. In three words, they call the whole thing fun, rewarding, and a whirlwind. Spend five minutes inside Hat & Hem and you will believe them.
the couple’s cut with janelle & parker
HOW IT STARTED: Pop-ups, then “inevitable rather than planned” • Janelle left her job two months before their wedding to open the boutique JANELLE’S LANE: Structure, organization, and systems • PARKER’S LANE: Instinct, confidence, and calm energy • HAT DNA: Third-generation hat shaping with roots in Wichita Falls • WHAT DEFINES A PARKER HAT: Quality materials, true craftsmanship, and a personal feel • THE HAT & HEM WOMAN: Confident, expressive, laid-back, effortless but intentional THE GOAL: Guests feel welcomed, cared for, and leave with an experience • HOW THEY HANDLE DIFFERENCES: Honest communication, mutual trust, same team HARDEST PART: Turning work off at home • THREE WORDS: Fun, Rewarding, Whirlwind • REACH THEM: hatandhem.com // hatsbyparkerthomas.com
Winter 2026
WINTER IS SERVED IN CHERRY CREEK
NARRATIVE
Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth. What good is the warmth of summer without the cold of winter to give it sweetness?” – John Steinbeck
Can’t argue with a legend like Steinbeck. Here’s a look at what our chefs and kitchens are up to for the season…
TELL US ABOUT YOUR NEW OFFERINGS THIS SEASON...
CLAYTON HOTEL & MEMBERS CLUB Executive Chef Tim Morton Winter at Clayton is all about comfort elevated through creativity. The season brings a slower, more intentional pace in the kitchen, where we lean into richer flavors, warm spices, and dishes that feel deeply personal. It is a time when members gather upstairs by candlelight, the energy softens, and food becomes a catalyst for connection. For us, winter is an invitation to cook with soul.
MAGNA KAINAN Executive Chef Carlos LaMagna It’s one of the most exciting times as we hit that confluence of late summer ingredients hanging on to their last moments and the new ones that thrive in cooler weather. Certain mushrooms start popping up for foraging season, along with some of the heartier squashes. That shift naturally leads us into warmer, heartier dishes. And of course, it’s the perfect time for soup. This is such a great transition period, not just for the weather, but for how we put together our menus. It’s a true time of abundance and creativity.
NARRATIVE AT THE JACQUARD Executive Chef Charles Albright Winter, to me, is nature’s reminder to slow down. I love how snow changes everything — how it quiets the world and makes you notice the small things again: the steam from a bowl of soup, the glow of a dining room, the laughter that fills a space when people linger just a little longer. We build warmth through layers of flavor, a little sweetness from root vegetables, that whisper of smoke or citrus that wakes up the palate. It’s a season for cooking that nourishes and brings people close.
TORO LATIN KITCHEN & LOUNGE Chef Ricardo Miron Winter, for me, is a season of mixed feelings. It brings a deep sense of nostalgia because it reminds me of the times when my family in Mexico gathered for a homemade dinner. Those moments were priceless. At the same time, it’s the busiest time of the year in my career. It’s a period when I rarely get to see my loved ones because of the demands of the business, yet it’s also when I get to shine the most as a chef and grow professionally. That duality — nostalgia and ambition —defines what winter feels like to me.
LOCAL JONES Executive Chef Ian McKenzie Winter means leaning into the spirit of the season with cozy fireside moments, aprèsstyle cravings, and dishes that balance comfort with an upscale Cherry Creek touch. It is the time of year when guests linger a bit longer, savor heartier flavors, and look for dishes that feel both warming and intentional.
HAPA SUSHI Executive Chef Scott Nakasone Winter for me looks like slowing down and making big cozy bowls of ramen at home. I love throwing in whatever veggies I have on hand—Bok choy, mushrooms, carrots, even leftover greens—and letting everything simmer together. It’s simple, comforting, and kind of the perfect way to warm up when it’s cold outside
MISTER OSO (WASH PARK) Beverage Director Keegan Labrador (The Culinary Creative Group) I have a love/hate relationship with winter. Growing up in a small beach town, I have never completely adjusted to the winters in Colorado. I love the first snow and appreciate how beautiful the season can be, especially the beginning of winter when we are celebrating holidays with family and friends. But, by the time March rolls around, I’m dying for sun, sand, green grass and blooming flowers.
WHAT DISH ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT?
NARRATIVE AT THE JACQUARD I’m really drawn to the diver scallops this winter — the way they come together with butternut squash, roasted apple, and cider gastrique just feels like the season on a plate. There’s comfort, balance, and a sense of time and place in every bite. I also love how the crispy pork belly captures that same feeling — that little bit of sweetness, spice, and texture that makes you pause and really taste the moment. Those dishes feel like winter’s rhythm to me — rich but thoughtful, indulgent yet grounded.
LOCAL JONES This year, I am most excited about our mushroom leek stuffing. It is earthy, savory, and deeply aromatic - the kind of dish that fills the kitchen with the smell of the holidays. It balances richness with fresh herbs and feels like the heart of the Thanksgiving table.
CLAYTON HOTEL & MEMBERS CLUB This year, I’m most excited about our squash soup. Growing up, squash soup was one of the few dishes my family made from truly fresh, seasonal produce. It’s simple, comforting, and sentimental for me.
HAPA SUSHI CHERRY CREEK Lately, I’m most excited about dishes that use the rich, cold-weather fish that fatten up for winter—think buttery shake, Saba, or black cod. They’re at their peak this time of year, so anything that lets that flavor shine, whether it’s a simple sashimi or a fun roll for our weekly specials.
TORO LATIN KITCHEN & LOUNGE This winter, I’m most excited about the Wagyu filet. It is rich and perfectly balanced with crab mashed potatoes and a hibiscus demiglace that adds both depth and brightness. The grilled asparagus and a touch of truffle give it the winter elegance it deserves. It’s a plate that feels celebratory, comforting, and luxurious all at once—exactly what the season calls for.
MISTER OSO One of my favorite things to do during snowy winter days is to grab some ceviche and tacos and then enjoy citrus-driven cocktails. People don’t always realize that in the U.S., we get our limes from Mexico and, in Mexico, lime season is at its best in January. The best margarita or daiquiri you’ll drink in Denver will be drank in the dead of winter. My go-to “snow day” date night is dinner at Mister Oso Wash Park and then drinks at Ay Papi. By the time I’m sipping my second daiquiri, I could close my eyes and imagine myself anywhere tropical.
GIVE US YOUR RESTAURANT’S IDEAL WINTER MEAL...
NARRATIVE AT THE JACQUARD I’d start with lobster corndogs. They’re fun, unexpected, and set the tone for sharing. Alongside that, a smoked carrot dip with Marcona almonds and seeded lavash — something earthy and vibrant to open the meal. Next, a bowl of sweet corn soup — the charred poblano and pickled nectarine bring warmth and brightness to each spoonful. For the entrée, I can’t resist the 48-hour short rib — slow-cooked and deeply flavorful, paired with aged cheddar grits and broccolini. To finish, I’d lean into something simple and nostalgic — maybe a spiced pear tart or bread pudding with burnt honey — a dessert that feels like the last note of a song you don’t want to end.
LOCAL JONES I’d begin with a butternut squash bisque with toasted seeds and a drizzle of sage oil. Next, a winter citrus and fennel salad to add brightness and contrast. For the entrée, a pan-roasted chicken with truffle jus. Dessert would undoubtedly be our chocolate hazelnut torte, which is rich, silky, and perfect for winter evenings.
CLAYTON HOTEL & MEMBERS CLUB I’d begin with something warm and welcoming, like a roasted carrot and ginger soup. For the main course, I’d serve a roasted Colorado trout with brown-butter mushrooms. To finish, winter calls for nostalgia, so I’d end with a warm sticky toffee pudding topped with vanilla bean cream. It brings the whole menu home.
HAPA SUSHI CHERRY CREEK My ideal winter menu would start with our New Style Sashimi, move into the Kakuni pork belly appetizer, followed by a big bowl of ramen, and finish with the Big Island volcano dessert.
TORO LATIN KITCHEN & LOUNGE To start, amarillo ceviche - bright, citrusy, and clean. It wakes up the palate with a perfect balance of heat, acidity, and freshness. For another appetizer, our blackened tuna tacos are crisp, smoky, and playful. The cabbage slaw brings crunch, the poblano tartar sauce adds a creamy punch of attitude, and the corn tortilla ties everything together. For the main course, it would be the Lomo Saltado - Beef filet, heirloom tomato, bell pepper, red onion, and poblano pepper cooked with fire and personality. Finally, dessert is La Bomba - our signature explosion — which brings together chocolate, warmth, texture, and spice.
MISTER OSO Again, kind of unusual perhaps, but I’m starting with the Agua Chile. Chef Blake makes the best in the city in my opinion. Then, I’m moving on to Pollo Bronco tacos and pairing it with a side of coconut rice.
WHAT WINTER MEMORY STANDS OUT
BECAUSE OF AN UNFORGETTABLE MEAL, AND WHAT WAS THE DISH?
NARRATIVE AT THE JACQUARD There’s one night I always think back to — the first heavy snow of the season. Power flickered, the roads were silent, and a few close friends and I ended up at the restaurant’s kitchen, cooking by candlelight. We made braised lamb shoulder, roasted carrots, and warm milk bread with honey butter. Nothing fancy — just good food and good company. But it was one of those meals where time stopped. The snow outside, the warmth of the kitchen, the laughter — it all reminded me why I love what I do. Food has that power to connect, to slow the world down for just a moment, and make you grateful for the people at your table.
LOCAL JONES Some of my favorite winter and holiday memories come from our large extended family gathering at my grandparents’ house. Everyone would squeeze into the kitchen after the meal, clearing the dishes by hand, laughing, and eventually making our way back to the table for a few rounds of cards. My grandmother had a gift for bringing everyone together, and for making the most incredible stuffing with all the traditional offal ingredients. She always prepared both ham and turkey, along with her famous pickled beets and cranberry sauce. With seven children of their own, my grandparents cherished having the whole family under one roof. Hosting those big, lively meals was when they were happiest.
CLAYTON HOTEL & MEMBERS CLUB My strongest food memories go back to childhood, when my mom would cook individual Cornish hens. As a kid, I thought it was the most incredible thing, and it felt special every single time.
HAPA SUSHI CHERRY CREEK
One of my favorite winter memories is eating hot pot with my family. It was freezing outside, but we were all crowded around the table with the pot bubbling in the center, cooking veggies, thin-sliced meats, and noodles as we talked and laughed. Something about everyone reaching in, sharing the same meal, and warming up together made it unforgettable. The food was great, but the feeling of being together made it even better. My kids are older now, but whenever we have the chance, I love going out or doing hot pot at home.
TORO LATIN KITCHEN & LOUNGE
One of my most meaningful winter memories comes from Christmas in Mexico with my mom. She always made sure my brother and I had a beautiful Christmas Eve. She woke up early to start preparing the dinner, cooking everything with so much love. A few dishes that stand out in my memory because of how special they tasted. There was the classic apple salad—juicy, creamy, and full of flavor. Then, spaghetti with creamy poblano sauce and cheese, warm and comforting. And the centerpiece was her Mexican-style Christmas turkey, stuffed with ground beef, apples, almonds, raisins, and bacon. It was simply delicious and full of soul. Those flavors and that love turned the meal into an unforgettable moment for me.
MISTER OSO A few months after Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico at the end of summer 2017, we invited a friend of our restaurant, Chef Sebastian Ramirez, to come down and hold residency at Señor Bear while the island rebuilt. He had lost his restaurant and home during the storm and was excited to spend some time in Denver working with us. At his kickoff dinner, he and Chef Blake put together such a wonderful meal inspired by classic Puerto Rican dishes, ingredients and flavors. There were so many great dishes on the menu that night, like Mofongo, Arroz Con Gandules and his grandmother’s flan recipe but, what made it such a special night was the energy from all of the guests who came out to celebrate our friend and the people of the island in general. I’ll never forget the Mofongo he made that night – I asked him to make it for me a few more times over the time he was here, and it always hit just right.
The most delicious Japanese + Hawaiian food fusion
"Hapa" is derived from the Hawaiian term that describes a harmonious blend of Asian & American cultures.
Thus, our menu is based on traditional Japanese cooking fundamentals which are then amplified, muted, or mixed with influences from many different styles of cooking until they are something completely new: they're Hapa.
LANDMARK
WINTER 2026
A5 STEAKHOUSE
1600 15TH STREET
303.623.0534 / A5DENVER.COM
ASH’KARA
2005 W 33RD AVENUE
303.537.4407 / ASHKARADENVER.COM
AVIANO COFFEE ON 2ND
215 ST PAUL ST. SUITE 180
720.389.9948 / AVIANOCOFFEE.COM
AY PAPI
248 DETROIT STREET
AYPAPIDENVER.COM
BAR DOUGH
2227 W 32ND AVENUE
720.668.8506 / BARDOUGHDENVER.COM
CLAYTON HOTEL & MEMBERS CLUB
233 CLAYTON STREET
303.551.1600 / CLAYTONDENVER.COM
FORGET ME NOT
227 CLAYTON STREET
720.259.5369 / FORGETMENOTDENVER.COM
FOX AND THE HEN
2257 W 32ND AVENUE
303.862.6795 / FOXANDTHEHEN.COM
HAPA SUSHI
3030 E SECOND AVENUE
303.322.9554 / HAPASUSHI.COM
KUMOYA
2400 W 32ND AVENUE
303.862.6664 / KUMOYADENVER.COM
LOCAL JONES
249 COLUMBINE STREET
720.772.5022 / HALCYONHOTELCHERRYCREEK.COM
MATSUHISA DENVER
98 STEELE STREET
303.339.6628 / MATSUHISARESTAURANTS.COM
MISTER OSO
103 S OGDEN STREET
303.955.0352 / MISTEROSODENVER.COM
MAGNA KAINAN
1350 40TH STREET
720.524.8684 / MAGNADENVER.COM
NARRATIVE
222 MILWAUKEE STREET, IN THE JACQUARD
720.571.8080 / NARRATIVECHERRYCREEK.COM
SENOR BEAR
3301 TEJON STREET
720.572.5997 / SENORBEARDENVER.COM
TAP & BURGER
2219 W 32ND AVENUE
720.287.4493 / TAPANDBURGER.COM
TORO LATIN KITCHEN & LOUNGE
150 CLAYTON LANE
303.253.3000 / TORODENVER.COM
KUMOYA REDEFINES OMAKASE with precision, hospitality and global sourcing
At Kumoya, omakase is not confined to a single seat at the sushi bar. It is an experience that unfolds throughout the dining room, shaped by seasonality, sourcing and an unwavering commitment to hospitality.
Chef Corey Baker, who leads the culinary vision at Kumoya, describes the restaurant as a living, breathing reflection of the global seafood market.
On any given night, Kumoya offers more than 20 unique fish selections, sourced from over 15 countries. The approach allows the team to showcase rare species, pristine cuts and peak-condition seafood that rarely appears on static menus.
Unlike many omakase counters that limit the experience to a handful of seats, Kumoya invites guests to enjoy a chef-driven tasting anywhere in the restaurant. Servers are trained to guide guests through a personalized progression, working in close coordination with the chefs.
“Our service team is trained to read guests — what excites them, what they hesitate on, what they finish immediately. That feedback shapes every course that follows,” says Baker.
At the sushi counter, five chefs with a combined 150-plus years
of experience prepare dishes live each evening, responding in real time to guest preferences and service cues.
“Every guest is on their own journey,” Baker says. “Our job is to make sure no two experiences feel the same.”
The beverage program mirrors that same intentionality. Kumoya’s sake list features five of the world’s top eight sakes, alongside a collection of more than 100 Japanese whiskeys, including several rare and limited bottles selected specifically for pairing.
As the seasons shift, so does Baker’s inspiration.
“This spring, I am especially excited about exploring firefly squid, live Japanese river crabs and wild Japanese strawberries — ingredients that reflect Kumoya’s commitment to both rarity and restraint,” explains Baker.
At its core, Kumoya is less about spectacle and more about intention — a place where sourcing, service and skill align to create something deeply personal, every night.
“Omakase is a conversation,” Baker says. “We’re listening just as much as we’re cooking.”
Every guest is on their own journey. Our job is to make sure no two experiences feel the same.”
-CHEF COREY BAKER
Kumoya offers an exquisite setting for all your special occasions.
Whether you're planning a corporate gathering, a milestone celebration, or an intimate social event, our private dining room and exceptional service will make your event unforgettable.
CHERRY CREEK WEDDINGS and events
the DEBUT ISSUE
MELISSA JOHNSON pepper rose florals
Melissa Johnson is the owner and lead designer of Pepper Rose, a fine art floral studio in Denver known for romantic, organic, and whimsical wedding and event florals. Inspired by nature and driven by creativity, she crafts thoughtful, custom designs that reflect each couple’s vision. Melissa’s work is rooted in sustainability, quality blooms, and a belief that flowers bring joy, beauty, and meaning to every celebration. In addition to floral design, she shares behind the scenes of romanticizing her life as an artist through her regular vlog series, “Diaries of a Florist” on Youtube (@ pepperroseflorals).
getting to know her
Flower I’m always drawn to: Ranunculus
Arrangement I never get tired of creating: Bridal bouquets
One thing I’ll always say yes to: Anything with color!
Last thing I “splurged” on: A luxurious chocolate brown wool coat that I’m absolutely obsessed with.
Connect with Melissa! pepperrose.com • @pepperroseflorals
PHOTO: DEREK JOHNSON VISUALS
what’s INSIDE
100
76 something BLUE 78 aisle STYLE 80 it’s my PARTY
82 real weddings: KYLIE & MICHAEL 86 real weddings: FRANKI & MATTHEW
92 sunset in the GARDENS 100 the BLUE BOOK 106 last LOOK
COVER PHOTO: kylie in ines di santo via anna be bridal, shot by nathan george
something BLUE
Photos courtesy of Phil Molloy, Jenna Noelle Creative; Alyson McClaran (@aly.m); All Digital
Photo & Video
aisle STYLE
REGISTRY, REIMAGINED: THE LOCAL EDIT
he registry is one of those wedding decisions that quietly sets the tone for what comes after the last dance. Not because it has to be perfect, but because it is an early glimpse at the life you are building. What you reach for on an ordinary Tuesday. What you pull out when friends linger past dessert. What makes your home feel like yours.
Which is exactly why we love the idea of registering locally, at smaller shops where the owners and teams are not just selling product, they are offering perspective. They know the brands intimately, they can tell you what truly lasts, what wears beautifully, what is worth the splurge, and what is simply a pretty trend that will not love you back. You are not handed a scanner and sent into the wilderness. You are guided, edited, and cared for, with the kind of attention that makes the whole process feel less like a checklist and more like a rite of passage.
Start with THE LARK , a longtime Denver favorite that feels like a warm, well stocked secret. This is the place for couples who want a registry with range: the practical anchors, the pieces you will use constantly, and the little discoveries that make a home feel layered. Their selection invites you to think beyond the obvious, and their team helps you build something that reflects your tastes, your routines, and the way you actually entertain. Reach them via thelarkdenver.com
Then there is WHITE PEACOCK , where registries become an art form. If you care about the table, and the feeling of a table, you will understand the appeal immediately. What makes White Peacock special is not just the beauty of the lines they carry, it is the hands on curation. They will mix and match china patterns and then thoughtfully pair them with tabletop and table setting options until you land on a combination that feels one of a kind. Not a set you picked because it was safe, but a table story that is unmistakably yours, designed to evolve as you host more and live more. Reach them via whitepeacockdenver. com
And for couples who understand that luxury is often felt, not flaunted, BRASS BED FINE LINENS is the quiet power move. This is where you build the foundation of everyday comfort: linens that make sleep feel like a reset, towels that feel like a small ceremony in themselves, and pieces that elevate the ordinary without trying too hard. Their expertise turns an overwhelming category into an actually satisfying one, and the result is the kind of registry you will thank yourself for, years from now. Reach them via brassbedfinelinens.com
Registering locally is not just a thoughtful gesture toward small business, though that matters. It is also the most elegant way to create a home that tells the truth about you, long after the wedding album is tucked away.
STATE OF THE UNION
n 2026, stylish weddings are not chasing “perfect,” they are chasing feeling. The new status symbol is intention: fewer guests, more care, and a weekend that moves like a dinner party, not a rigid program. Smaller lists free up room for the details people remember, from a pre-ceremony pour to little comforts that make guests feel looked after.
Venues are getting smarter. Couples are trading blank ballrooms for spaces with built-in soul: a favorite restaurant, an art gallery, a garden, a family home. When the setting already has character, décor can be edited, and budgets can move toward lighting, food, and ease.
Timelines are loosening. Think longer cocktail hours, fewer forced formalities, and reception pacing that feels immersive instead of stop and start. Wedding parties go unofficial, and more couples get ready together to buy back time.
Family moments get a fresh spotlight, especially modern nods to mothers that feel personal, not scripted. And for couples who travel for the meal as much as the view, food-led destinations and tasting-menu receptions are rising, with live stations that turn dinner into entertainment.
On the style front, drama is back in the gown and color is back in the room. Think fuller silhouettes, detachable moments, and palettes that lean rich and confident rather than safe and beige.
Dinner turns communal, with family-style service and interactive desserts that invite guests in. Finally, the documentation gets nostalgic, with camcorder-style footage that preserves the night as it actually felt.
Weddings, tailored to perfection
Host your wedding with the Jacquard Hotel & Rooftop and let our team tailor your special day to perfection!
Enjoy our lavish and thoughtfully designed guest rooms, complemented by nearly 7,500 square feet of flexible, light-filled event space. Savor a one-of-a-kind culinary journey at our award-winning onsite restaurant, Narrative, and take in uninterrupted views of the Front Range and downtown Denver from our vibrant rooftop.
MY PARTY
A COLORFUL BIRTHDAY SOIRÉE
ome parties are planned from the menu out. This one was planned from the dance floor out.
From the beginning, the client’s 45th birthday had one non-negotiable: the entertainment. “This party was centered around the DJ,” says planner Bria Blair, and not just any DJ. The night revolved around social media celebrity Eric Rhodes, whose following is built on the kind of crowd-reading, era-hopping mixes that turn a good party into a full-on moment. Bria calls him “the main feature,” praising his ease and generosity behind the booth, along with his signature sound. “He has a knack at blending 90s R&B with today’s hits,” she says, “and it was the best DJ experience I’ve had to date.”
The celebration took place under a tent at the client’s local golf club, a venue that can read classic and quiet if you let it. Bria did not. “We wanted to elevate this black canvas and turn it into a bright, vibrant nightclub aesthetic,” she says. The palette began with the perfect leopard print and the birthday girl’s love of pink, then expanded into a fearless mix of pattern and contrast that felt playful, graphic, and intentional.
Design decisions were anchored in customization. “Design started by finding and customizing the right leopard print and pairing it with the birthday girl’s love of pink,” Bria explains. Once the print was finalized, it became a motif guests saw everywhere. Custom placemats were made from the leopard pattern, and the same print was turned into textiles that wrapped the bar and showed up as throw pillows. “We were not afraid of prints. Color contrasts,” she says, while a grounding black-and-white element helped balance the boldness and keep the look polished.
Guests felt the shift the moment they stepped inside. Bria credits LMD for creating instant atmosphere. “The pre-function ceiling features really softened the space,” she says, noting their “masterful” work with custom linen and draping. Oversized inflatables brought a dose of unexpected fun, while the dance area delivered the ultimate exclamation point: a four-foot disco ball that, in
Bria’s words, “really brought the energy.”
The experience kept unfolding through thoughtful moments that moved with the night. There were four bar setups, including a tequila tasting cart during cocktail hour and an espresso martini bar that opened once the dancing began. The standout was the leopard bar, built from a custom print the birthday girl selected and translated into a fabric wrap “that Bear Aesthetic perfected,” Bria says. Food followed the same confident approach. “I always believe in playing to the strengths of the venue,” Bria notes. With summer as the backdrop, they leaned into seafood with a cold bar of shrimp and lobster claws, plus grilled lobster tails on the open grill. Then came an immersive caviar service, carried through the crowd on custom trays, with servers offering caviar bumps that turned into instant conversation starters.
Florals were handled by Petals and Pop, friends of the birthday girl. “Tiffany and Eric did a great job of matching the color palette,” Bria says, and her favorite detail was their floral arch at the entrance to the dance floor, finished with balloons for extra drama.
For the sweetest custom detail, Bria called in her friend Andrea of Sugar Bloom Cookie, a cookie artist with serious star power. “If I ever want a WOW moment and that extra special touch, I call my friend and cookie guru Andrea,” she says. Known for creating custom cookies for the Kardashians, Blake Lively, and Stoney Clover, Andrea is also the winner of Food Network’s Cookie Challenge. Bria sent her the design deck and let her run. The result was a collection of one-of-a-kind, hand-painted cookies, including a custom design that featured the birthday girl’s party dress.
Even Colorado weather tried to make itself part of the story. “In the afternoon you can count on a rainstorm. This day was no different,” Bria says. It cleared just in time, and the night unfolded exactly as intended: music-forward, fashion-forward, and utterly electric.
WORDS BY BETSY MARR // PHOTOS BY MARY MASCARENAS // PLANNING & DESIGN BY BRIA BLAIR CREATIVE
real WEDDINGS
KYLIE & MICHAEL
FEBRUARY 22, 2025
Castle Rock, Colorado
IBY BETSY MARR // PLANNING
HEATHER
If you believe the best love stories start quietly, long before the proposal, you’ll understand Kylie and Michael immediately. They met in high school at Regis Jesuit High School and “instantly became best friends,” a detail that explains the ease you can feel in every part of their wedding day. College put a little geography between them (him at University of Nebraska–Lincoln, her at University of Colorado Boulder), but when Kylie transferred mid-way through, their friendship turned into something more. Soon after graduation, they returned home to Denver and kept building the kind of relationship that looks steady because it is.
The proposal was as personal as it was picturesque: Michael asked Kylie to marry him at his family’s property in Castle Rock, the same setting that would later host their reception. It had already been the backdrop for birthdays, holidays, and countless ordinary days that became memorable simply because they were shared. He had candles, flowers, and a photographer waiting, then the two toasted with champagne by the fireplace before heading to dinner at Matsuhisa - Denver, where both sets of parents were waiting to celebrate.
For the wedding itself, family and guest experience were non-negotiable. They chose to marry close to home so the people they love could be present, and they wanted guests to feel like they were part of their story, surrounded by great food, great drink, and a beautiful space. That clarity became the foundation for planner Heather Allen of Table 6 Productions, who oversaw full planning, design, and production.
Kylie’s vision was something she’d carried since her teen years: elegant, classic, timeless,
and deeply romantic, with flowers as the main character. The palette stayed neutral with a soft touch of pink so it wouldn’t compete with the home’s architecture, and then the florals did what florals should do at the highest level: transform everything. “We used over 10,000 roses,” Heather shared, creating a winter mood that felt like a moody rose garden brought indoors.
Even the ceremony at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church was designed as a prelude. Although it took place at the church, the team brought in massive urns filled with hundreds of roses to flank the couple so the experience would feel cohesive from the very first moment. At the property, winter logistics required creativity: a courtyard and U-shaped multi-car garage became a fabulous cocktail hour space, and guests entered through a tunnel of luxe velvet drape, soft lighting, and roses that set the tone immediately.
Inside, the design unfolded in chapters. Heather layered variations of centerpieces (candelabras, clusters of soft blooms in mixed vases, compote arrangements), and made the sweetheart table “a moment” with crawling vines and roses behind the couple. The grand staircase leading from cocktail hour to dinner became the showstopper: a “walk through a beautiful rose garden in France,” and a jaw-drop moment as guests descended.
Then came the kind of production-level problem solving guests never see. The day before the wedding brought snow and rain, so the tent team climbed onto the tents overnight and into the morning, shoveling snow so it wouldn’t melt and run into carpeted spaces. Dinner required
BY
ALLEN, TABLE 6 // PHOTOS BY NATHAN GEORGE PHOTO
fitting 200+ people on the main level, which meant hiring a moving company to remove furniture, including a very special piano, and working around staircases, alcoves, and built-ins while still leaving room for seamless service.
What guests did see was effortless glamour: valet arrival, a raw bar with a monogrammed ice sculpture, a string quartet, elevated bar selections and a roaming oyster shucker, then a multicourse dinner with wine pairings and a toast with Billecart-Salmon champagne. Later, espresso martinis and late-night food kept the celebration going, and the band (flown in from Dallas) did what a great band always does: turned a beautiful wedding into a truly wild dance floor. Heather says watching Kylie and Michael “really let loose” with friends captured their energy perfectly, the joy of two people who have “known each other and loved each other for a very long time.”
And in between the pomp and circumstance were the moments that made it theirs. After the ceremony, the couple drove to the reception in a vintage blue Ford pickup, stealing a few minutes alone to exhale and take it all in. During the father-of-the-bride speech, Kylie’s dad sang a childhood song to her, in front of more than 200 guests, one of the most emotional beats of the night. They also married in the same church where Michael’s parents were married, a quiet thread of continuity woven into a very modern, very cinematic day.
For their first dance, they chose “Beige” by Yoke Lore, a song they’ve loved for years for its reminder to love someone for the totality of who they are. Looking back, Kylie and Michael’s advice is refreshingly simple: plan the wedding that makes you happy, minimize the noise of other opinions, and invest in a planner so you can stay present with each other and the people you love.
PHOTOGRAPHER NATHAN GEORGE PHOTO // PLANNING & DESIGN HEATHER ALLEN, TABLE 6 PRODUCTIONS // FLORIST AESTHETE FLORAL // CEREMONY VENUE ST FRANCIS OF ASSISI
// RENTALS COLORADO PARTY RENTALS, REVERIE SOCIAL, NUAGE, CHARMING CHAIRS, BESPOKE BY BELLO, HOUSE OF WILDE, RC RENTALS // CATERING CATERING BY DESIGN // CAKE THE MAKERY
MUSIC JORDAN KAHN MUSIC COMPANY // STATIONERY LUCKY ONION // HAIR ELLE LIKE THE LETTER // MAKEUP SABRINA DEEMER // VIDEOGRAPHY A LITTLE LONG DISTANCE
BRIDE’S GOWN INES DI SANTO, ANNA BE // BRIDE’S SHOES JIMMY CHOO // GROOM’S ATTIRE TOM FORD
Freal WEDDINGS FRANKI & MATTHEW
JUNE 07, 2025
Vail, Colorado
BY BETSY MARR
From the start, Franki and Mathhew envisioned a wedding that felt elevated and cinematic, but still deeply human. On June 7, 2025, they brought 215 guests to Camp Hale, just outside Vail, for a destination celebration that mixed Southern charm with mountain-scale beauty. Wide-open meadows, alpine stillness, and peaks in every direction made it feel like everyone had stepped into a world of its own, a true “worth the trip” weekend from the moment guests arrived.
Franki, a physician assistant, and Matthew, a civil engineer in land development, live in Baton Rouge, but their story began at Louisiana State University, where a close mutual friend set them up. They even share the same birthday, a detail that feels almost too perfect, especially knowing they spent a few years in a row simply wishing each other happy birthday before things turned serious. That turning point came after senior year, when Matthew accepted a job and Franki made the choice not to move back to her hometown, staying close because the relationship felt worth betting on.
Matthew’s proposal carried the same thoughtfulness. He planned a surprise weekend in Highlands, complete with a hidden photographer and a stunning house overlooking Lake Glenville, with Blue Ridge Mountains views. The most meaningful part came after he asked. Franki walked inside to find her entire family there, flown in and waiting, transforming a private moment into something communal and unforgettable.
Since their wedding was far from home, Franki cared most about guest experience and wanted every detail to feel worth it, a real thank you for traveling far and wide. That intention showed up in the
scale of their people, too. Thirteen bridesmaids and groomsmen stood beside them, with five flower girls and multiple ring bearers bringing the sweetest kind of softness to the day. Franki describes the wedding in three words: breathtaking, elegant, picturesque, and she had long imagined a chic, pastel palette paired with summer florals that could hold its own against the drama of the mountains.
Planned and designed by Isabelle Kline Design, the celebration leaned refined but inviting. The design stayed intentionally elegant, letting the landscape lead while still creating a tented environment that felt layered, romantic, and transportive once guests moved into the reception.
A monogram became a signature thread throughout the weekend, and the reception reveal was anchored by a detail guests will remember instantly: a custom dance floor that was a moment in and of itself, emblazoned with the couple’s wedding monogram and motif, larger than life. It gave the party an identity and made every photo feel unmistakably theirs.
They also brought home with them, literally. Southern fare from Louisiana anchored the menu, not as a novelty, but as a love letter to who they are and where they come from, served with the warmth of true hospitality. And when the night took off, it really took off. The Denver Radio Band kept the dance floor packed and closed with a solo fiddle encore of The Devil Went Down to Georgia, the kind of finale guests keep talking about long after the last song ends.
Some of the most meaningful moments were quieter. Right after the ceremony, Franki and Matthew
// PLANNING BY ISABELLE KINE // PHOTOS BY MARY ANNE CRADDOCK
carved out 15 minutes alone to sign their marriage license, share a cocktail together, and just sit in the surrealness of it all. A memorial table honored loved ones who could not be present, but still felt near. Franki wore her sister’s Vera Wang veil and carried a bouquet wrapped in a piece of her late grandmother’s wedding dress, with a hand-stitched message in her mother’s handwriting. Even “something blue” was personal: three of her best friends, asked to wear blue and stand beside her.
Their first dance, Wondering Why by The Red Clay Strays, captured what Franki loved most, an emotionally sincere song that felt raw, deeply romantic, and timeless. Afterward, they traded peaks for palms, honeymooning in Saint Lucia. Looking back, Franki’s best advice is the one Matthew kept repeating through planning: step back, see the big picture, and remember these are the days you once prayed for.
the evening BEFORE
s a wedding planner, I have the privilege of witnessing countless beautiful moments, but every so often, a celebration stands out not only for its design but for the intention behind it. This rehearsal dinner was one of those rare evenings where hospitality, elegance, and heartfelt gratitude came together seamlessly.
Traditionally, rehearsal dinners are more intimate. Yet for this couple and the groom’s family, rooted in Southern tradition, the evening represented something more: a meaningful opportunity to welcome their guests with generosity, warmth, and genuine appreciation. Their vision was clear from the beginning: to create an experience that felt just as thoughtful and elevated as the wedding itself, while remaining deeply personal.
Set at the Vail Golf Club, with the beautiful view of the Gore Mountain Range, the setting alone was a treat for this destination wedding. Guests arrived during the golden hour, with beautiful light illuminating the mountains, and were greeted with crafted cocktails and an atmosphere that signaled the start of an unforgettable weekend.
One of my favorite details was the personalized champagne greeting. Each guest was welcomed with a glass labeled with their name and table assignment, a refined and practical touch that instantly made everyone feel special. Just beyond, lush floral arrangements framed the entrance, paired with a custom fabric welcome sign in soft pastel pinks. It was subtle, romantic, and perfectly aligned with the bride’s vision and overall aesthetic.
The bride and groom embodied the evening’s elevated style. The bride wore a chic, fashionforward dress that felt effortlessly sophisticated, while the groom complemented her look in a beautifully tailored suit. Together, they set the tone—modern, confident, and undeniably elegant.
What made the evening even more special was the guests’ embrace of the vision. From fashionable cocktail attire to thoughtful styling, everyone arrived ready to celebrate in style! It created an atmosphere that felt curated yet organic, perfect for meaningful conversations, laughter, and stunning photographs as the destination wedding weekend officially began.
As the cocktail hour progressed, a gentle rain began to fall, just enough to add romance without disrupting the celebration. Wrapped in umbrellas, the couple shared quiet, intimate moments beneath the misty mountain sky for pictures. In many traditions, rain symbolizes good fortune and abundance, and it felt like a beautiful blessing over the days ahead.
For me, this rehearsal dinner was a reminder of what thoughtful planning and heartfelt intention can truly accomplish. It was more than a beautifully designed event; it was a gracious welcome, a sincere expression of gratitude, and a reflection of family values carried across generations.
Blending Southern hospitality with Rocky Mountain elegance, this evening set the tone for an extraordinary wedding weekend. It was an honor to help bring this vision to life and to witness how love, design, and purpose can transform a single night into a lasting memory.
-Isabelle Kline
Year-Round Mountain Weddings Select Weekends Available for 2026
Photos By Sarah Porter
Sunset in the Gardens
A winter sunset sparked the palette. The Denver Botanic Gardens set the mood. The rest was texture, intention, and a celebration designed to feel as good as it looks.
WORDS & FASHION
BY BETSY MARR • PHOTOGRAPHY BY CARLY SWAN PLANNING & DESIGN BY JENNA RITTER, MARIGOLD EVENTS
Winter in Denver is often defined by restraint: bare branches, crisp air, clean lines. And yet, every so often, the season offers a reminder that warmth is not reserved for summer. It appears in the sky at sunset. It lingers in terracotta tones. It glows through candlelight.
This cover editorial began with that exact idea, winter reimagined as inviting. To bring it to life, we partnered with planner Jenna Ritter of Marigold Events, who approached the day the way a real wedding should be built, from the inside out. Not just aesthetics, but movement. Pacing. Energy. The way guests settle into a space and feel held by it.
“Almost all of my creative ideas start the same way, noticing something small and beautiful in everyday life and letting it grow from there,” she told us.
At first, the vision was quieter, more neutral, the kind of winter palette you expect. Then everything shifted during an ordinary moment that became the spark: an evening walk at sunset. Peach tones softened the horizon. Blues layered into each other. Corals deepened as the light faded. It was warm and comforting in the middle of winter, and it felt like permission to design winter differently. “That moment became the starting point for the entire design.”
From there, the palette took shape in a way that felt effortless: soft peach and terracotta balanced with oceanic blues and layered greens. Winter color, but not winter cold. Romantic, grounded, and emotional, which is exactly what we wanted this story to be: a wedding day, not a photoshoot.
The setting was the perfect match. Inside the intimate green solarium at the gardens, namely, The Woodland Mosaic Solarium. The inviting space’s Victorian architecture exudes symmetry and eleganc. Glass walls, ironwork, and a lush, living backdrop create a room that already feels like an occasion. It’s the perfect Denver venue for intimate gatherings. This allowed our design to lean into texture and color without overpowering the space, because the room itself has confidence.
And then there is the light. It shifts throughout the day, filtering through glass and greenery, changing the mood hour by hour. That rhythm shaped the editorial, helping each scene feel elevated while still unfolding naturally. “Intentional, immersive, seamless, and unforgettable,” is how Jenna described the goal. We felt it in the way every moment connected to the next.
The Ceremony
THE INTIMACY ARC
The ceremony was designed to feel close, almost enveloping, the kind of layout that draws guests inward before anyone says a word. Chairs were placed in a gentle semi-circle to echo the Solarium’s arches, creating connection and softness rather than straightline formality. Florals framed the aisle and gathered around the couple in a meadow-like way: romantic, natural, and perfectly scaled to the room instead of competing with it.
It’s the kind of ceremony design that doesn’t rely on drama. It relies on feeling.
ON THE BRIDE: Floure “Daphne” Gown, $10,800; Sara Gabriel “Honey” Veil, $1,475
ON THE GROOM: State & Liberty “The Springer” Button Down, $105; Stretch Flat Front Tuxedo Pant, $180; “Stretch” Tuxedo Jacket in Cream, $600
The Reception
A TABLE BUILT LIKE A SUNSET
At the reception table inside the stunning Woodland Mosaic Solarium, the palette became tactile. The design translated that winter-sunset inspiration into materials you could feel: deep blue stoneware plates reflecting the cooler tones of the sky, peach and terracotta linens echoing the fading light, and subtle greens grounding everything back into the garden setting.
Even the smaller choices carried intention. Seashell-textured elements nodded to nature. Modern silver flatware brought a clean contrast against the solarium’s traditional architecture. It was elevated, but not stiff. Editorial, but not untouchable.
And then, the detail that made it all feel quietly brilliant: terracotta bread-and-butter plates that were repurposed plant saucers, topped with name cards dusted in pink Himalayan salt. “Personal, one-of-a-kind, and rooted in storytelling,” Jenna said.
ON THE BRIDE: Guardiola “Valentina” Gown, $5,125; Stylist’s Own Oscar de la Renta Earrings ON THE GROOM: State & Liberty “The Springer” Button Down, $105; Stretch Flat Front Tuxedo Pant, $180; “Stretch” Tuxedo Jacket in Black, $600
Cocktail Hour Lounge
THE LUXURY OF A PAUSE
EXPERIENCE AS A DESIGN ELEMENT
Cocktail hour was treated as its own chapter, immersive and experiential, not just a transition. This is where the guest experience became interactive: custom-crafted cocktails from Cocktail Caravan paired with a candle-making moment with Wax Crescent. It added texture to the day in a way guests could participate in, not just photograph.
Signature cocktails weren’t simply a menu detail. They became structure, making ordering feel effortless, while carrying the story forward through naming, signage, and glassware choices that tied back to the overall aesthetic.
Luxury weddings are not only defined by what guests see. They are defined by what guests feel. A lounge moment is pacing. It is comfort designed with purpose. It gives the celebration room to breathe, and it gives guests a place to linger in conversation, not just pass through.
Jenna describes them as “intentional living rooms within a celebration,” which feels exactly right.
Favors & Cake : WARMTH YOU TAKE
WITH YOU
The best favors do not feel obligatory. They feel considered. They weave personality into the day and honor the setting, ideally while supporting local makers. Candles, also from locally-owned Wax Crescent, were the perfect choice, a favor that is actually used, enjoyed, and re-lit long after the last dance.
And the decadent carrot cake from Sweet Sisters Bake Shop carried the same warmth: earthy tones, a modern asymmetrical shape, and a soft ruffled detail that read as romantic without leaning overly traditional. Against the green glass of the Solarium, it landed as its own visual exhale: a final moment that felt like part of the story, not an add-on.
In the end, the takeaway is simple, and it’s the kind of advice worth stealing. Have fun with color and texture. When design reflects who you are, the celebration feels personal, elevated, and memorable.
AND
ON THE BRIDE: Katherine Tash “Bella” Gown, $3,960; Stylist’s Own Lele Sadoughi Earrings ON THE GROOM: State & Liberty “The Springer” Button Down, $105; Stretch Flat Front Tuxedo Pant, $180; “Stretch” Velvet Tuxedo Jacket in Black, $600
PLANNER & DESIGNER Jenna Ritter, @marigoldeventsco • PHOTOGRAPHER Carly Swan, @willowrayphoto FLORIST Melissa Johnson, @pepperroseflorals • RENTALS Oak & Twine, @oakandtwinerentals LINENS BBJ La Tavola, @bbjlatavola • VENUE Denver Botanic Gardens, @denverbotanic CAKE Sweet Sisters Bake Shop, @sweetsistersbakeshopllc • COCKTAILS Cocktail Caravan, @cocktailcaravanco CUSTOM CANDLES Wax Crescent, @waxcrescent • MAKEUP Gina Comminello, @gina.comminello.makeupartistry HAIR James Mucker, @yjameswhy • SIGNAGE The Social Archives, @the.socialarchives GOWNS Anna Be Bridal Shop, @annabebridalboutique; 2050 W. 30th Avenue Denver;
BOOK
VENDOR COLLECTIVE
From mountaintop ceremonies to candlelit soirées, from legacy venues to modern ateliers, The Blue Book highlights the talent that defines our region’s most extraordinary events. Whether you are planning an intimate gathering or a multi-day celebration, these experts bring skill, style and intention to every moment.
There is a certain kind of florist you book because you want “pretty flowers,” and then there is Pepper Rose Florals, where the blooms are not background, they are part of the story. Founded by Melissa Johnson, this boutique studio is based in Denver and serves Colorado and California with full-service wedding and event florals, flower delivery subscriptions, and floral design workshops and classes.
Melissa describes her brand in five words that read like a mood you can actually feel: romantic, artful, warmhearted, intentional, joyful. You see it immediately in her aesthetic, which leans whimsical and nature-inspired with a modern twist. Think airy movement, garden-grown shapes, a touch of fairy-tale softness, and a confident love of color that honors the season you are in, not the trend you are chasing. “Deep care, kindness, and listening to your vision, while easefully and joyfully bringing your dream wedding flowers to life.”
That care is not just emotional, it is intentional in practice. Pepper Rose is known for “dream flowers” and raves from couples who felt truly seen, but also for a thoughtful approach to sustainability. Melissa sources locally when possible, composts floral waste, uses biodegradable or reusable mechanics, and donates leftover event blooms to Renewed Poppy, giving wedding flowers a second life as gestures of comfort and support to women post-mastectomy and their families. It is a quiet kind of beauty, the kind that lingers because it means something.
One wedding that perfectly captures the Pepper Rose signature took place at Denver Botanic Gardens, inside its iconic green solarium, on a rainy spring day. The couple wanted the florals to be the star, so Melissa leaned in fully, layering vintage candleholders and oil lamps into a scene that felt like a romantic garden after a storm. The palette was moody and delicious: deep burgundies, dusty lavenders, ivories, whites, and natural greenery, all arranged with movement and texture that felt collected rather than constructed. The result was dramatic in the most sophisticated way, like the room was exhaling. “If we’re not enjoying ourselves, then what is the point?” Melissa asks, with a grin.
And because she is a past bride herself, Melissa never loses sight of what couples remember most. Her advice is simple, and it is the kind that often gets overlooked in the rush: carve out a private moment. Step away, even briefly. Let the music and the candlelight and the scent of the flowers wash over you. Be unhurried and fully present with your partner, because that feeling is what you will carry long after the last toast.
Beyond weddings, Pepper Rose makes room for beauty in real life too. Seasonal offerings like Mother’s Day deliveries, The Flowery Subscription delivery service to Denver, and intimate floral design classes hosted in her studio are all an extension of the same philosophy: flowers are not just for the big moments. They can be part of the everyday, too, especially when they are created with this much heart.
MARIGOLD EVENTS
The best weddings do not feel produced. They feel considered. They feel like someone paid attention. Jenna Ritter has built her work on that exact idea, creating celebrations that are elevated without being fussy, romantic without being predictable, and always rooted in the couple at the center of it all. Her planning is the quiet engine underneath the beauty, steady, organized, and deeply intentional, so her clients can actually enjoy the season leading up to the day.
What sets her apart is the balance: meticulous logistics paired with refined creative direction, all anchored in storytelling. Her events are custom from the ground up, inspired by a couple’s love story, then translated into a design world that feels immersive and unmistakably theirs. The result is not just a stunning room, but a celebration with emotional clarity, where every detail has a reason for being there.
BLUE BOOK RENTALS
As she says, “Every event I design is entirely custom and thoughtfully built from the ground up, inspired by my clients’ love story.” Her style lives in that coveted space luxury couples seek now: timeless romance layered with thoughtful creativity, intention, and a touch of whimsy. It is sophisticated, yes, but never stiff. You see it in the way she uses color with restraint and confidence, in textures that feel collected instead of curated, and in those personalized details that quietly tell the story without ever shouting for attention.
Working with Jenna feels calm and guided, like having a creative partner who is also a trusted steward of your investment. She brings clarity to decisions, structure to the process, and a grounding presence for families, while still pushing the vision beyond what most couples would ever think to imagine. It is the kind of support that makes room for joy, and for being present, because you are not spending the day problem solving.
Her signature is design as storytelling: layered patterns, intentional texture, and bespoke touches that bring a couple’s personality to life. One of her most defining events, a welcome reception at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, captured this beautifully. Set on a tucked-away stretch of beach with sweeping views of Wailea, the evening leaned into the couple’s coastal upbringing with soft linens, rattan textures, and sea-glass tones beneath the palms, then layered in custom leis, signature cocktails, and locally sourced welcome details that felt both elevated and effortless.
And when you ask what truly makes a wedding unforgettable, she goes straight to the part guests feel, not just what they see. “Unforgettable weddings anticipate guests’ needs before they even realize them.”
In a wedding world where the smallest details often do the heaviest lifting, Oak & Twine Rentals is the team behind the pieces that quietly change everything: the chair that instantly elevates a ceremony aisle, the bar that becomes the night’s natural meeting place, the lounge that signals to guests, stay a while. Based in Castle Rock, owner Kaira Roper has built Oak & Twine around a simple idea that feels increasingly rare: rentals should not look “rented.” They should feel considered, cohesive, and personal—beautiful on their own, and even better when layered into a bigger design story.
Kaira describes the brand as “thoughtful, seamless, elevated,” with an aesthetic that’s “warm, modern, and intentional.” You see it in the collection, which is edited rather than endless: statement dining chairs that add instant architecture to a tablescape; curated lounge groupings in soft neutrals and light woods; bars that act as functional focal points; tabletop décor and styling pieces that finish the look; backdrops and photo booths that create moments; and specialty installations that bring a little drama (hello, lanterns and disco). The overall effect is not about doing the most for the sake of it. It’s about selecting the right pieces so the entire day reads polished—without ever feeling precious.
But Oak & Twine’s real magic is not just what they have. It’s how they show up. “From delivery and setup to installation and teardown, we handle every detail,” Kaira says. That sentence is the difference between rentals that feel like an extra line item and rentals that feel like a design partner. Oak & Twine is built for couples (and planners) who value a smooth process as much as a beautiful outcome: clear communication, proactive planning, and a team that understands the pace and pressure of event days. Kaira notes that they prepare intentionally at their warehouse so the onsite experience feels effortless—streamlined load-in, clean installs, and a finish that looks as good up close as it does in photos.
A celebration in Vail captures the Oak & Twine signature: elevated yet welcoming, with design choices that encourage connection. A tented reception glowed with wicker lanterns scattered overhead, casting a warm, golden light across beautifully set tables. Nearby, a lounge moment in soft whites and light wood created a cozy center of gravity—an invitation for guests to gather, settle in, and linger between dances. “Elevated yet welcoming,” Kaira calls it, “intentional, cohesive, and centered around connection.” That is Oak & Twine in a sentence: pieces that don’t just fill space, but shape how people experience the day.
Their favorite clients are the ones who appreciate thoughtful details and trust the creative process—couples who want their celebration to feel like them, not like a template. And if Oak & Twine had to sum up what they deliver in one word, they would not overthink it: “Seamless.” For planners and couples alike, there is also something new on the horizon: their warehouse showroom is slated to open at the end of February 2026, giving clients an even more hands-on way to see, mix, and imagine the pieces that will bring their wedding to life.
There is a certain kind of bridal beauty that announces itself the second you step into the room. And then there is THE LOOK Beauty & Med Spa by Gina Comminello Inc., where the goal is something far more enduring: refinement without the heavy hand. Founder and CEO Gina Comminello has built her name on the kind of artistry that photographs beautifully but never feels overdone, with a philosophy rooted in confidence, polish, and authenticity. “Timeless beauty, flawlessly curated,” as she puts it.
At its core, Gina’s approach is about enhancement, not transformation. Bridal beauty should feel like you, just edited. Skin should look healthy and luminous, makeup should sit like second skin, and nothing should read trendy in a way that feels dated a decade later. The result is classic, elevated, and intentional, the kind of effortless finish that looks as good in natural light as it does in flash photography. “Every detail is thoughtfully considered and beautifully executed,” Gina says, and that promise extends from the first conversation to the final touch-up.
BLUE BOOK RENTALS
What makes The Look especially valuable for brides is that it is not only a makeup studio. It is a full-spectrum beauty and med spa destination designed to support the entire runway to the wedding day. Alongside wedding and event makeup, clients can refine and reset with medical-grade facials and customized skincare, chemical peels, and a menu of laser and resurfacing treatments that help target tone, texture, sun damage, and overall radiance. For brides who want results with strategy, there are options like broadband light (BBL/IPL) and deeper resurfacing services, plus “lunchtime” style laser peels that polish without demanding a long disappearance from real life. Add in lash services, brow design, and teeth whitening, and suddenly the pre-wedding checklist feels less like a scavenger hunt and more like a cohesive plan.
The Look also offers physician-guided medical weight loss for clients who want support beyond skincare, including modern injectable options designed to complement a healthy lifestyle with structure and oversight, not gimmicks. Consider it part of the studio’s bigger promise: confidence that is built, not rushed.
Ask Gina what makes a wedding unforgettable and she does not talk about trends. She talks about presence. The moment the bride stops fussing, stops fixing, and simply lives inside the day. “When she feels completely confident and present,” Gina says, “no fussing, no fixing, just fully in the moment.”
A detail that feels especially full-circle: when Gina brought her business to Cherry Creek North in 1997, she met fellow beauty originals David Leon and James Mucker of Salon Utopia. Today, their independent businesses share one space, collaborating to offer clients a seamless, one-stop destination for elevated beauty.
Her definition of a luxury wedding is simple: thoughtful details, expert execution, and beauty that feels effortless. One word she hopes couples use to describe her work: flawless.
A photo booth can be a fun add-on, or it can become part of a wedding’s visual language. Photo Booth of the Rockies lands firmly in the second category, bringing studio-grade portraiture into the heart of the reception with the kind of polish you would expect from a fashion set, not the corner of a ballroom. For owner and Chief Experience Officer Capri Wells, it is about bridging the gap between guest entertainment and fine-art photography. “We treat every guest as a portrait subject rather than a casual participant,” she says, with a focus on images that feel elevated enough to keep.
Serving Colorado and Southern Wyoming, the team offers studio-quality photo booth experiences with instant prints and digital delivery, plus glam booth options, cinematic 360 video booths, and roaming photography. But what makes the brand instantly recognizable is its aesthetic: Capri describes it as “minimalist luxury with a high-fashion edge,” built on clean lines, luminous lighting, and an obsession with flattering the human form. The result is less “party favor” and more keepsake, the kind of image guests slip into a clutch or wallet and actually hold onto.
From the first design conversation, the process is handled with white-glove ease. Capri calls it “a partnership rooted in white-glove service,” where everything is thoughtfully customized so the booth does not feel like an extra vendor. It feels like it belongs. Backdrops, layouts, print design, lighting, and the overall footprint are considered through the lens of the full event, because cohesion is the difference between something that feels dropped in and something that feels intentional. “We want the photos to feel like heirlooms of the beauty of the moment,” Capri says, not just snapshots guests forget by morning.
They are best known for their signature Studio-to-Reception lighting, a refined setup that gives guests what Capri calls “the celebrity treatment,” producing instantly flattering, magazine-quality portraits, and applying that same state-of-the-art approach to their 360 video experiences. Think luminous, editorial lighting that smooths, sculpts, and brings out that just-danced glow, without ever feeling harsh or overproduced. At a recent black-tie wedding, the team curated a custom silk-draped backdrop designed to echo the bride’s train, creating a seamless visual story that felt electric in the room and beautifully restrained on camera.
For Capri, the unforgettable moment is when raw emotion meets high style, when a guest holds a physical print and realizes it is not just a fun photo, it is a memory they will still love decades from now. The word she hopes couples use to describe the experience is simple and telling: “Indispensable.” And coming soon, a romantic twist on modern memory-making: a video time capsule that lets guests record messages to be delivered on a future anniversary, preserving the feeling of the day for up to 25 years.
last LOOK
In a meadow that feels borrowed from a dream, childhood does what it does best. It forgets the timeline, ignores the program, and turns lace and ribbons into play.
Three small figures, dressed like a storybook, spin and wander with the kind of innocence we spend the rest of our lives trying to remember. A flicker of Princess Diana bridesmaids energy, but wholly their own, in Vail.
PHOTO BY MARY ANNE CRADDOCK SHOT AT THE NUPTIALS OF FRANKI & MATTHEW
CLOSE TO HOME, a woRLD AWAY.
COLORADO APPRECIATION OFFER
Make our home your getaway. As a token of our appreciation, The Broadmoor is extending exclusive nightly rates to our Colorado neighbors for select dates in January and February 2026. Enjoy weekday rates as low as $318, with weekend rates starting at $349.
Offer includes:
• Complimentary outdoor pickleball court time thru March 16, 2026
• Suites available at 25% off of published rates
• Guided history tour of the Colorado Golf Hall of Fame and Heritage Hallway every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.
• Access to The Penrose Heritage and Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Museum
• Guided Art & History Tours available every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday
• Late check-out or early check-in, based on availability
Savor delightful meals in our award-winning restaurants including three-course prix fixe dinners through February 28 th* at The Broadmoor’s array of restaurants. The Penrose Room is $79 per person, Summit and La Taverne are $69 per person, Italian-centric Del Lago is $59 per person, while gastropub Golden Bee is $49 per person for lunch. Visit Broadmoor.com for more information.
