May/June 2024 | Santa Barbara Life & Style Magazine

Discover the highly rated wines of Alma Rosa Winery in its gorgeous indoor/outdoor tasting room in downtown Solvang or at its stunning 628-acre estate.

TASTING ROOM OPEN DAILY

1623 Mission Drive

Solvang Vineyard Estate Tastings By Appointment

805-691-9395

PEACE OF MIND

10,000 Steps in the Right Direction

JOIN US FOR OUR 4TH ANNUAL FUNDRAISER FOR MENTAL HEALTH

Saturday July 22, 2023

JOIN US FOR OUR 5TH ANNUAL FUNDRAISER FOR MENTAL HEALTH

May 18, 2024

Alma Rosa Winery is pleased to announce its fifth annual fundraiser to support mental health

Peace of Mind: 10,000 Steps In The Right Direction

$55 registration fee

All additional donations are matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $35,000 for each charity and a total of $70,000

100% proceeds benefit Mental Wellness Center and One Mind

Photos by Nicole DeBevoise

Santa Barbara and Santa Ynez Valley’s Premier Caterer — Creating memorable culinary experiences for high end, large scale catering or small family style events and dinners. We curate seasonal & chef driven menus. Italian is our heart but we love all cuisine!

SIMPLIFYING YACHT OWNERSHIP

At Top Tier Yachts, we are dedicated to elevating the boating experience for yacht owners within the Santa Barbara harbor. Through our exceptional full-service offerings, we aim to simplify the ownership process and eliminate the stress of management, maintenance, and schedules. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that owning a yacht is a purely enjoyable and effortless experience. Allow us to take care of the details, so you can focus on enjoying the moment.

High tea, pastries, cakes, breakfast, and lunch

WHEN YOU FACE THE BIG QUESTIONS IN LIFE, YOU NEED AN EXPERIENCED, KNOWLEDGEABLE GUIDE YOU CAN TRUST

SAIGE PRIVATE WEALTH MANAGEMENT 21 E. CARRILLO STREET, SUITE 100 SANTA BARBARA, CA 93101 805-456-2400

INFO@SAIGEPWM.COM

*Securities offered through Sanctuary Securities, Inc., Member FINRA, SIPC. Advisory services offered through Sanctuary Advisors,LLC., an SEC Registered Investment Adviser. Saige Private Wealth is a DBA of Sanctuary Securities, Inc. and Sanctuary Advisors, LLC.

MAY/JUNE 2024

EDITOR IN CHIEF & PUBLISHER Ottocina Ryan

ART DIRECTOR Vide Olsson

ADVERTISING & PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER Stephanie Swann

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Alexandra Lee

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Silas Fallstich

PHOTOGRAPHERS Jackie Beran, Alex Feggi, Ryan Mayo, Jacqueline Pilar, Jon Premosch, Angelo Sgambati

WRITERS Isabella Ballerini, Ella Heydenfeldt, Laura Hupp, Nicole Johnson, Alexandra Lee, Emma Roberts Calemine, Alexandra Sharova

ON THIS COVER

CONTENTS

MAY/JUNE 2024

IN EVERY ISSUE

SBLS SPOTLIGHT 21

You had us at macaron tower.

COVET & CRAVE 22

The transition to summer is our favorite kind of transition.

THIS SEASON 24

French escapes, art escapades and more, all right here in the Central Coast.

48 HOURS 98

Two days of soothing walks, sandwiches, swimwear, and surfing.

DINING

SAVORING SANS GLUTEN 26

Fine dining for those doing without wheat.

S ILVER LINING 32

At Silver’s, Omakase means “leave it up to Chef Lee.”

P ICK YOUR POISON 36

Our kind of fairytale.

PROFILES

VISIONARIES 42

The inspiring individuals of Santa Barbara.

OUTSIDE THE LINES 50

Maryvonne LaParlière creates joy in art form.

MIKOH AT 15 54

After 15 years, the swimsuit sisters of MIKOH have their sea legs.

UNJADED 60

There is nothing Elisa Stad can’t do.

EYE FOR DESIGN 62

Jessica Jubelirer likes her fridges fabric-wrapped and her wallpaper made of silk.

FASHION

SUN DAYS 66

One purse of strawberries, please.

TRAVEL

K-OHANA-IKI 80

Making ourselves at home in a members-only community on the Big Island.

SIT BACK & RELAX 86

Peace and preservation are Bawah Reserve’s specialty.

A SCOTTISH ADVENTURE 92

A quintessential Scotland experience at Fife Arms.

Dress FENDI The Webster

Visor MIU MIU The Webster Bracelets & Ring ANNE SISTERON

1. COLD SUMMER

“A record label in a can” characterizes COLD Records, the latest release from The Funk Zone’s STUDIO Soundroom. This hybrid drinkscompany-and-record label includes two seltzers and a Mexican-style cerveza, each with a QR code to listen to local artists’ latest tracks.

SBLS SPOTLIGHT

BY Alexandra Lee

3. HIGH TEA

It’s always tea time at Belmond El Encanto, where Magic Hour astro-botanical infusions meet delectable sweet and savory bites as part of the Botanica Afternoon Tea experience. Indulge every Monday through Friday from 2:30-4 p.m.

2. GARDEN PARTY

Head to Montecito’s historic Casa del Herrero to immerse yourself in a vibrant array of summertime events, from a Mother’s Day garden party to sip and paint workshops, book clubs, and a summer solstice sound bath.

4. SWEET TOOTH

Entertaining this summer? Look no further than Santa Barbara’s newest French bakery, Rêve Pâtisserie, for handmade macaron towers, custom macaron cakes, and more, available at the farmer's market and by online order.

Follow @sblifeandstyle for daily behind the scenes content, new restaurants, events, getaways, and more...

PHOTO BY JACQUELINE PILAR

PHOTO BY MATT WALLA

POP OF SUMMER

OUR BEAUTY, WARDROBE, AND HOME DECOR PICKS FOR A TOTAL SUMMER GLOW-UP

1

Garden Glory Shell Cushion

This maximalist shell-shaped seat cushion is the perfect accessory for garden benches, indoor chairs, and terraces alike. Made of thick cotton and adorned with a carrying strap, this cushion makes a versatile addition to any boring corner. gardenglory.com

3

Minnow Pink Guava Gingham Bikini

Barbie summer may have passed, but we’re still all-in on pink. This pretty gingham bikini is made from luxurious recycled Italian fabric, with an ultra-feminine square neck. Plus, you can grab a matching one-piece for your mini! minnowswim.com

BY Alexandra Lee

2

Feltman Brothers Girls Pointelle Jacquard Knit Set

The sweetest set to keep your little one warm and comfy, from beach to playground and back. This adorable vintageinspired jacquard knit outfit is perfect for toddlers and girls aged two to five. feltmanbrothers.com

5

APL Nostalgia ‘87 Sneakers

APL’s newest silhouette is a nod to sun-soaked days on the tennis court, inspired by classic luxury sport shoes. Featuring patented performance technology, the Nostalgia ‘87 brings a seamless blend of fashion and athleticism for pickleball dates all summer long. athleticpropulsionlabs.com

4

Hermès H Riviera Pillow

For an eye-catching pop of color, look no further than the Hermès H Riviera Pillow. The pillow’s graphic plaid pattern in grenadine hues is reminiscent of summers spent sunbathing in the French Riviera. hermes.com

6

Charlotte Tilbury Island Glow Easy Tanning Drops

Want to sport the Caribbean island glow without the harsh rays? Charlotte Tilbury’s new face tanning drops are designed to develop in eight hours and leave you with a lasting sunkissed glow, with skinloving ingredients like hydrating hyaluronic acid. charlottetilbury.com

KELLY FAJACK

SUMMER STATE OF MIND

Local art, environmentalism, and retreats to usher in the season of sun

BY Nicole Johnson

EUROPEAN ESCAPE

Back and better, the newly renovated Petit Soleil, a quaint, 17-key boutique hotel, is bringing rustic Parisian revival to downtown San Luis Obispo. Whether staying the night or stopping by, guests can nibble on fresh hors d’oeuvres paired with craft cocktails at nightly apéritif hour, nestled by open flames in a cobblestone courtyard. Petit Soleil bears the intimacy of a bed and breakfast, and the fare and beverages of an upscale eatery: the first accommodation from Good Lion Hospitality group, it boasts the same culinary vibrancy of its downtown Santa Barbara bars such as The Good Lion, Test Pilot, and Shaker Mill. With incoming bicycle rentals and a full-scale restaurant in production, the auberge invites all to cool off from Central Coast summer with charm. Enchanté. petitsoleilslo.com

TRIFECTA PERFECTA

Good things come in threes. Caruso’s is ringing in its five-year anniversary and 2024 Forbes Triple Five-Star award joining an elite club of five U.S. properties acclaimed for excellence in their hotel, restaurant and spa with an exclusive three-course dinner. Offered Monday through Thursday, Rosewood Miramar’s premier waterfront dining experience features a truncated prix fixe menu, sprinkled with sensory amuse-bouches and washed down with optional wine pairings. Seasonally rotating Michelin-star dishes, 90 percent locally sourced ingredients, and a stalwart commitment to sustainability, all with an eyeline of the horizon what’s not to celebrate? rosewoodhotels.com

PETIT SOLEIL, PHOTO BY BLAKE BRONSTAD

CARUSOS, PHOTO BY SILAS FALLSTICH

BOTTOMS UP

California’s newest biogenic reef just anchored down in Goleta Bay. Santa Barbara-based nonprofit Fish Reef Project is a pioneering force for marine biodiversity, dotting local and global coastlines with living, breathing underwater cities. The Project’s dome-shaped Sea Caves, deployed in Goleta and international waters alike, sow the seeds for kelp forestation vital in carbon sequestration, and act as a nursery for reef dwellers stimulating sustainable food networks and fisheries. A launch 12 years in the making, Fish Reef Project’s home-grown habitat joins its first-rate Mexico, Papua New Guinea, Jamaica, Africa, and Hawaii branches, captaining a worldwide effort to counteract the climate crisis by enlivening ocean ecosystems. fishreef.org

OH, HONEY

ART OF HEALING

Time to glow and grow—El Encanto Wellness Week returns this summer. In partnership with healing haven Palma Colectiva, the resort will host a retreat of workshops, such as restorative sound baths and candle making, all nourished by gourmet, garden-plucked meals.

Special guest coveted Beverly Hills facialist Linda Ross will be offering El Encanto-exclusive colostrum treatments paired with a microcurrent glove facial massage that yield celebritygrade results. The Wellness Week truly amplifies the gratitude and grounding that come naturally when perched atop El Encanto’s mountain-side window to the Pacific. belmond.com

A modicum of leading female makers is on display at House of Honey’s Montecito studio. The interior design firm’s inaugural Artists Residency, a curated gallery open until May 14, stars perception-shifting pieces from five surrealist sculptors, ceramicists, and creatives in a class all of their own. From hand-crafted busts and bookends to experimental lights and vessels, the work of each featured woman—Kelly Lamb, Carmen Ellis, Marcela Cure, Whitney Sharpe, and Mary Little—boldly inspires. “The artists in our residency align with our mantra of creating authentic and meaningful experiences that will leave a lasting mark on the worlds of art and design,” says Tamara Honey, the firm’s creative director and founder. houseofhoney.com

EL ENCANTO, PHOTO BY JARED FIX

sans

SAVORING GLUTEN

EUROPEAN-CALIFORNIAN BISTRO, LILAC MONTECITO, PROVES YOU DO NOT NEED GLUTEN TO CREATE DELICIOUS DISHES

BY Ella Heydenfeldt PHOTOGRAPHY Alex Feggi

On Coast Village Road, a new culinary haven has bloomed, where European tradition meets Californian innovation. Lilac Montecito, the sophisticated sister to Lilac Patisserie, known for its gluten free French-inspired delights in downtown Santa Barbara, has made her grand debut. Co-owners and dynamic husband-wife duo Gillian and Alam Muralles lead the charge alongside their talented Head Chef, Simone.

Lilac Montecito isn't just a restaurant; it's a testament to passion, dedication, and the art of gluten-free fine dining. For Chef Simone, who hails from a small town near Milan, Italy, crafting exquisite dishes in a gluten-free kitchen is a labor of love. "I like the project and the challenge of working in a gluten-free restaurant," he confides.

For Gillian, the journey to Lilac Montecito is deeply personal. Raised in a family where the love of cooking ran deep, her path took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with celiac disease at a young age. Undeterred, her passion for cooking led her to pursue formal culinary education, where she met her husband, Alam, who shared the dream of opening a fine dining restaurant.

The Muralless envisioned a dining experience that is both comforting and elevated, one that you would never know is crafted in a gluten-free kitchen. "We try to market our businesses as restaurants first, gluten-free second," Gillian explains.

CRUDO

Gillian's words ring true as my companion and I step onto the elegant restaurant's white tile floors. Greeted by soothing jazz melodies, the ambiance blends Parisian chic with California charm. Evening light streaming through a wall of black iron square windows casts a soft glow over the space. We nestle into a petite table adorned by bistro chairs, and our attentive server, Anne Marie, welcomes us warmly, explaining that every dish is prepared fresh. Throughout the meal she ensures that our glasses remain filled and our every need is catered to.

After a few recommendations and placing our order, Gillian herself graces our table, adding a personal touch to our dining experience. With a flourish, she presents us with a basket of dinner rolls, a simple gesture that speaks volumes about the care and attention to detail that define Lilac Montecito's ethos. "It's one of my favorite jobs," she confides with a grin.

Soon after, the Yellowtail Crudo is placed before us, and a creamy avocado mousse with lime coconut milk is beautifully poured over it. The buttery fish is wrapped in a tight spiral in the center of the plate, now swimming in the light green sauce, along with candied celery sprinkled on top, resulting in a refreshing contrast between acidity and sweetness.

Next comes the Arancino, featuring a delightful medley of flavors and textures. A crunchy exterior ball of saffron risotto gives way to a warm ragu alla bolognese within, perched on a velvety bed of pea puree. The presentation is stunning, with elegant garnishes of vibrant microgreens and edible flowers.

For our main course, we are presented with a culinary masterpiece: the Duck Breast. The sous vide duck breast melts in our mouths. The skin boasts a delightful crispiness, while the succulent meat remains tender and flavorful. Nestled around the carefully carved slices of duck are two variations of butternut squash. One takes the form of pickled cubes, providing a tangy contrast,

while the other appears as a velvety puree, dotted in vibrant orange hues across the plate. Amidst this tapestry of flavors, dark dots of licorice sauce add an intriguing depth, perfectly complementing the accompanying broccoli romano's earthiness. Each bite is a revelation, a harmonious blend of savory and sweet, rich and tangy.

The Kabocha Ravioli is another standout dish. Fresh ravioli are handmade in-house, filled with creamy ricotta, smothered in a buttery pumpkin sauce, and topped with fried sage and amaretti crumble. Each bite is as decadent as the last.

To culminate our culinary journey, we savor the Key Lime Tart—a round confection with a crisp pastry shell embracing the lime filling, topped with a cloud of whipped cream.

Equally delightful is the Chocolate Lava Cake, a miniature marvel that beckons with indulgent allure. As we pierce its tender exterior, a river of molten chocolate cascades forth. A scoop of velvety vanilla gelato crowns the amaretti crumble, contrasting the dots of raspberry coulis. Each bite is unique, with the chocolate complementing the tangy berry and sweet cream.

From the savory duck to refreshing crudo, each dish is a testament to Chef Simone's culinary expertise and Gillian's commitment to creating a dining experience that is accessible to all. "I want this to be a place where everyone can come and enjoy," Gillian shares. "It's nice to be a restaurant where people who are gluten-free can eat the bread and participate in these dining experiences that are such a part of being in a community."

As a gluten-free individual myself, I am thrilled to genuinely say that I felt like I had a night where I indulged in gluten heaven without actually doing so. My companion and I bid farewell to Lilac Montecito with promises to return, knowing we would dream of our divine ravioli and being able to eat the bread basket.*

BERRY PATCH CAKE

CHOCOLATE LAVA CAKE

LINING

BY Laura Hupp

SILVERS OMAKASE IS PURE GOLD

PHOTOGRAPHY Ryan Mayo silver

Chef Lennon Silvers Lee’s latest culinary venture is nuzzled deep into the Funk Zone. For many Santa Barbara locals, it is better known as Seven Bar’s old home—an aspect that Chef Lee finds bittersweet. “If it wasn’t me, it’d be someone else. I am very happy to take on my favorite space.” And though the closing of the beloved spot brought an abundance of sadness, the bright side comes in the form of a 14 course sushi soiree at Silvers Omakase. Two-and-a-half years in the making, the execution is nothing short of spectacular. Inside, deep tranquil teal walls with seafoam green cumulus cloud details put you back outdoors, this time in a sage velvet arm chair with a glass of welcome bubbles in hand. The art gracing the area is a moving sculpture featuring 35mm film “Color Rhymes” by Rosa Barba. The theater door hasn’t yet opened and we wait with anticipation for the performance to begin.

As the final guests arrive, Jaime, drink expert slash maître d’, guides our attention to the currently closed entry. Pulling back the curtain—a thick black wooden door—the stage is revealed. Seats are assigned, though with just 10, there is no such thing as a bad one. While dining alone isn’t always my preferred method, Silvers is the ideal place to do so. The intimacy of the setting makes your table neighbor now your dinner date. Juxtaposing the waiting room, the scene we enter is much lighter, both physically and mentally. Upbeat jazz music welcomes us to our spots. The suspense has transformed into pure excitement as Chef Lee introduces himself and his three man team Nathan, Derek and Jaime. The 14 flavors of the night are outlined in front of us. They waste no time, immediately thinly slicing Kurodai and grating fresh wasabi.

A glass of Lieu Dit Sauvignon Blanc is poured and our first course is served—with instructions on how many bites to enjoy the dish in. The combination of both sashimi and tartare cuts of this black snapper bask in a wasabi ponzu broth that captures citrus, spice, and truly everything nice. In Japanese culture, Kuradoi is associated with good luck and prosperity. Spoiler: this bite certainly brings both throughout the evening.

Next on the agenda, Bluefin Zuke with a house shoyu marinade grilled on Japanese charcoal graces our plates. The crispy edge is followed by pure softness. As someone who tries their best to avoid red meat, I haven’t had a grilled steak in over eight years so take what I am about to say with that in mind. The flavor of this tuna, beyond being one of the best things I have ever tasted, reminds me of a classic steak and makes me consider reintroducing it to my diet.

As we make our way down the menu of Inada, Hamachi, Amaebi, and Hotate all in nigiri form with grated wasabi and light soy and shoyu, my new friend next to me states “That one was my favorite” after every single round. And I can’t argue. Each sashimi yellowtail, scallop, and prawn rendition creates a unique sensational taste that makes picking a favorite like picking a favorite child. Plus, Chef Lee leaves no detail unnoticed. If you thought all white rice was just white rice, think again. For the first time ever, Tanada Isehikari rice from Doyuuno farm is being served outside of Japan and it’s at Silvers Omakase. This rice is sweeter and firmer making it the perfect counterpart for sushi.

Jaime tops off my glass as I palate cleanse for the next portion with freshly sliced ginger. The ninth dish, Saba, comes with a heat warning. As someone with a slight aversion to spice, the prospect of fermented pepper paste accompanying the mackerel seems daunting. This is one case I am happy to admit defeat. The sea salt, lemon, and soy levelers make the kick a more than welcome guest.

The leanest and fattiest parts of the bluefin follow, each proving their spot in the lineup impeccably. The lean Akami has smoky undertones with a black garlic tare while the meaty melt-in-your-mouth Otoro is decadent enough to just need a touch of wasabi and dash of soy.

Realizing there are only three pieces left provokes an urge to turn back the clock and put myself back in the sage armchair with a glass of champagne. Unfortunately, that cannot happen. Fortunately, the last bites are truly a grand finale. Charcoal grilled Northern Japan Wagyu with an “egregious” (Chef Nathan’s word, not mine) amount of black truffle is placed in front of each guest as we all look with wonder. It’s a two-biter with an almost berry-esque compote flavoring accompanying the wonderfully chewy ribeye loin cut. This dish affirms that I should never bring beef back into my regular fare, because it will absolutely never taste this good.

Dessert is a surprising two-parter starting with an echinoderm entree. “Uni to us is a dessert. Which is why I like to serve it at the end of the meal.” The more traditional half is a sea buckthorn and raspberry sorbet. Its bright red pink color is what first grabs my attention, but its smooth sweetness is what keeps it.

Though all good things must come to an end, Chef Lee wants the experience to last until the morning. He sends us off with a black silk scarf-wrapped gift of Sencha Yuzu green tea. As I steep and sip it early the next day, memories of Bluefin Zuke, Hamachi, and Aji dance through my head to smooth upbeat jazz.*

poison pick your

LITERARY VILLAINS INSPIRED THE MANOR BAR’S SHOW-STOPPING COCKTAIL MENU

BY Emma Roberts Calemine PHOTOGRAPHY Silas Fallstich

The scent of ocean spray meets my nose as I walk through the lobby of Rosewood Miramar Beach.

Glass doors are pulled open to welcome the surrounding little miracles that happen in nature every day. Ocean breeze captures me in a state of reflection, admiring the checked flooring and the grand staircase. A large bouquet of white roses on a center round table winks at each new guest walking past. Down the hall I go, to find this highly-spoken-of Manor Bar, tucked away on the entrance floor.

Vintage decor and a large fireplace pull me into the dark room, where wooden panels line the walls. It reminds me of a moody library where one would read their favorite novel, accompanied by bourbon on the rocks. The minimalist ambiance is accented by playful artwork and family photos and mementoes, seemingly curated by someone close to Rick Caruso, proprietor of the hotel.

Plush seating encourages my legs to take a breather, and a friendly smile offers me what appears to be a book. The Manor Bar: Chronicles of Cocktails Volume III features iconic villains in a storybook themed drink menu. My new favorite book. Thick pages feature fun illustrations next to each of the 11 cocktail offerings and two nonalcoholic beverages. The artist, Parish Cherry, drew almost cartoonist, imaginative characters, from various stories that Bar Director Sam Penton wanted to use for his drink selections.

Sam introduces me to his favorite choices, all named after villainous characters. Author Joe Hayes wrote The Weeping Woman in 1986, with La Llorona as his villain.

La Llorona, a feminine drink inspired by a tale of love and betrayal, blends mezcal from Oaxaca with Licor 43, a Spanish liqueur. These complex flavors, presented in a black coupe glass with some coconut oil and mole bitters, weave the haunting story of how La Llorona drowned her children, represented by the edible flowers floating on top. This boisterous and silky martini reminds me of a twist on an espressotini.

In a nod to C.S. Lewis’ 1950 The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe, I’m pleased with an elegant vodka/gin martini, named The White Witch. The honeydew and pear flavors are subtle, and it’s topped with an icicle to represent her icy grip. My server, Paige, finishes the drink with a juniper spray for a woodsy smell and goes into detail about how Sam’s drinks each have a storyline behind them. I enjoy the guidance she provides—it gives me a sense of intrigue.

Rudyard Kipling’s 1894 edition of The Jungle Book has a fiery character represented—Shere Khan, an explosive tiger. The unexpected concoction of mezcal, curry bitters, Aperol, St Germain, citrus, and fresh ginger is topped with a show-stopping fireball display. Once the pyrotechnics display is removed from the stone on top, I eagerly down the beautiful cocktail, which reminds

CTHULU

CTHULU AND SHERE KHAN

ANTON CHIGURH

me of Red Hots candies. This vibrant and exotic drink makes me thirst for more. An ode to the margarita, the unpredictable Anton Chigurh is inspired by No Country For Old Men, written by Cormac McCarthy in 2005. This savory drink is presented with an organic corn husk garnish and shaved lime over ice. Using Empirical Spirits’ Ayuuk Blend, corn liqueur, orgeat, almond, pasilla chile, and saline for the salt, the flavors are perfectly layered without giving the sense of overwhelm.

I order some small bites—the bao buns and beef tartare are my favorites. The smoked pork belly, soy glaze, cucumber, and cilantro from the bao buns leaves me salivating, and the beef tartare toast fills me perfectly with the cured egg yolk, capers, pine nuts, and whole grain mustard. My palate is tantalized when I’m presented with the grand finale: a warm chocolate chip skillet cookie, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

“The

Manor Bar: Chronicles of Cocktails Volume III features iconic villains in a storybook themed drink menu. My new favorite book.”

I chat with Sam further about the outstanding cocktail program he has thoughtfully brought to life. “I enjoy the setting and the team’s constant strive for excellence. We treat each other kindly here,” he explains. He’s very proud of the collaboration between the bartenders and pastry chefs who make the cocktail garnishes, and enjoys seeing things from different creative lenses.

On Fridays and Saturdays, musicians join and heighten the energy. Guest bartenders visit once a month in a “CoAuthor Series,” intended to intrigue guests to open their minds to new drinks. Frequently, guests dance the night away in front of the fireplace, welcoming the bartenders’ inventive cocktails as a new delight.

The Manor Bar is picture-perfect, serene, and magical at the same time. There is great care behind every decision made, such as specific glassware or exact measurements being used to provide the best experience, and it shows.*

VISIONARIES

A celebration of

tastemakers, creatives, and entrepreneurs

BY Nicole Johnson

Santa Barbara’s

RIAN WIDDESS

A relative newcomer to the game, Rian Widdess has strategically optimized her five years in the marketing realm. She's the Head of Marketing Operations at San Ysidro Ranch, and the youngest female executive team member. Spearheading the public face of Hollywood's hideaway and an emblem of global luxury necessitates integrity; Rian consistently lays her intentions on the line, embodying a bona fide approach to her craft. “A commitment to authenticity means aligning marketing efforts with genuine values and delivering messages that resonate truthfully with our audience,” she says. Did we mention she does it all in a superbly tailored suit and pointed toe pump?

Timeless sophistication is Rian's style mantra, and her longevity-driven wellness philosophy also invites lasting vitality. “Well-being is a journey of

CHLOE REDMOND

Chloe Redmond, founder and CEO of Vino Vaquera Consulting, stands at the forefront of the digital marketing realm, specializing in influencer collaborations and social media strategy. An unexpected opportunity to collaborate with Chopra Global in 2020 illuminated the harmonious relationship between mindfulness and marketing for her. Committed to empowering entrepreneurs to embrace their full potential through intuitive marketing techniques, Chloe guides individuals in infusing their true selves into their brand strategies, targeting their unique audience, and fostering innovative partnerships.

Such an intentional, inspired business strategy stems from her rich foundation of self-reflection. “Take the time to deeply understand your passions, strengths, and values,” Chloe says. “Entrepreneurship is a journey, not a destination: embrace the process, stay

self-care and growth that I embrace wholeheartedly,” she says, which she pursues by nurturing meaningful relationships, routinizing mindful movement, and venturing into the “stunning surroundings of Santa Barbara [that] fill my heart with a sense of profound luck.”

On the subject of path-forging: Rian's ventures ahead include collaborating with esteemed editorial publications to elevate San Ysidro's ethereal offerings. If not traveling herself—preferably to San Miguel de Allende or Donostia San Sebastián, her most cherished global destinations—she'll be doing some early morning yoga, or at Gala for happy hour.

Her advice to aspiring professionals? “Building a supportive network and staying true to your goals with humility are key elements for success,” she says.*

true to your vision, and never lose sight of your passion.”

Chloe’s confidence flows naturally given she dresses the part, too. “I dance between bold and vibrant blazers and little black dresses,” she says. “Anything that makes me feel empowered and expressive in my creative state.”

The sea, by the same token, invigorates her imaginative senses. “Whether it be brunch at the Rosewood Miramar or a cup of chowder at Brophy Brothers, my happy places will always reside next to the ocean here in Santa Barbara.”

Together in collaboration with SBLS, Vino Vaquera Consulting is shining the spotlight on a distinguished group of trailblazing visionaries and entrepreneurs from Santa Barbara County, who are paving the way through the Central Coast.

JAMI MORSE HEIDEGGER

Jami Morse Heidegger is formulating the future of skincare. As co-founder of celebrity-lauded line Retrouvé—not to mention heiress and former leading lady of Kiehl’s—Jami would grace the beauty world’s hall of fame, if such an exclusive clique existed. But she’s less worried about labels than she is the integrity of Retrouvé’s impact, and the familial legacy she forges.

Joined by daughter Hannah, alongside co-founder, husband and world champion Austrian alpine skier Klaus, Jami heads the Heidegger clan’s company with the apothecary-style science of Kiehl’s and her own emphases on sustainability and inclusion. Above all, she imbues Retrouvé with an incredibly thorough touch. “There’s nothing beneath oneself if you’re an

entrepreneur,” she says. “Whether you’re stapling the papers or putting on the stamps, your company is like your child: you change the diapers, and you do whatever you need to do with love and enthusiasm when it’s your own.”

Genderless, age-embracing, and multi-purpose, Retrouvé products have unparalleled potency—shielded by three-tiered airless production and sultry black packaging—and a culture of unequaled ethics. Jami and Klaus contribute to innumerable philanthropic causes, dating back to their leadership of Kiehl’s, which became the first cosmetic company to donate 100 percent of sales to charity. A recent Retrouvé-specific cause Jami’s proud of? Every Skin Has A Story, an Instagram Live series sparking

conversations on social justice with notable creatives of color.

Jami’s pathfinding spirit rests in a rich foundation of wellness, which she believes is only supplemented by the luxurious serums she creates. On top of regular movement and nourishment—sourced from her family’s permaculture farm that grows Retrouvé’s chief ingredients—Jami cultivates unceasing curiosity as the keystone to longevity. “My one non-negotiable is that I need a bit of time to decompress...to, every day, work on myself spiritually, physically, intellectually,” she shares. “That’s the wonderful thing about life: you never get to an age where you can’t still learn, change or improve. Otherwise, what’s the point?”

PHOTO BY ANGELO SGAMBATI

POLLY DURSUM

Board-certified nurse practitioner, medical aesthetic specialist, entrepreneur—need we say more?

Polly Dursum’s ethos is all in the name: her MUDITĀ Skin Health studio, the Sanskrit word for joy derived from other’s wellbeing (and her own middle name), runs on the selfless energy of fulfilling all who surround her.

A meticulous eye, careful hand, and over 10 years in aesthetic medicine imbue an artistic essence into Polly’s processes, evoking enduring beauty through the refined power of subtlety. This distinctive touch—alongside that of her wife, dermatology physician associate Nancy Moharram—garnered a staggering 900 patients in 2022, MUDITĀ’s first year open, solely via word-of-mouth referral.

“In a field that is often judged as being superficial and where, unfortunately, a plethora of medical professionals can make a lot of money on ‘over-filling’ faces and producing unnatural-looking results, I want to create a place that puts

natural-looking holistic beauty and long-term skin health first,” Polly says.

A force of nature without formal entrepreneurial experience, Polly’s feats are all the more impressive given MUDITĀ’s business plan, stunning interiors, and mindful branding were all born of her intuition. “Build your business on your core values,” she urges. “The better you know yourself, the stronger your business will be and will continue to grow in the right direction.”

Polly’s business radar holds philanthropy paramount, regularly contributing to local causes she holds dear: namely Spark Rescue, Pacific Pride Foundation, and Gwendolyn Strong Foundation, promoting inclusivity for those with special needs, including her older sister.

Lab coats aside, Polly’s personal style exudes “elegance that is organic,” blending “simple palettes of calming neutrals with zen influences” that act as MUDITĀ’s environmental muse.

ERICA BROWN

Erica Brown, founder of Funk Zone stronghold Dylan Star Boutique, epitomizes coastal cowgirl. Her inventory effuses breezy beach-goer basics with the occasional rancher hat and statement belt, all of which she curates in her own essential ensemble, most often pairing leopard print with a bold ring.

Though celebrations are in order for the Santa Barbara native it’s the boutique’s five-year anniversary she’s instead saluting to the community in true visionary style. Erica’s piloting Dylan Delivered, a bespoke, stylist-curated collection of apparel and accessories dropped on customers’ doorsteps men included, another rarity in the small-scale retail space.

This ingenuity is what landed Erica the Santa Barbara’s Woman Business

Owner of the Year award, on behalf of the National Association of Women Business Owners, in 2022. She feels most honored, though, by her day-to-day acts that empower customers to wear their confidence. “The moment someone comes out of the dressing room with tears in their eyes because they didn’t know they could feel so good makes everything better,” she says. Above all, Dylan Star and her own disposition run on “honesty, humility, and trying to make people laugh as much as possible.” An optimist with integrity, she keeps her advice to eager entrepreneurs simple: “Why stop when you can go?”

Erica fills her own personal cup with a range of al fresco regimens, including dog-walks, soaking sun at Sandspit Beach, and concerts at the Santa Barbara Bowl.

TEDDY AND DJAMILA CABUGOS

Sunstone Winery, one of Santa Barbara County’s oldest vineyards to farm organically since its planting in 1990, is embracing the next frontier of innovation thanks to the direction of tastemakers Teddy and Djamila Cabugos. President and CEO, respectively, the couple—Teddy hailing from the entertainment industry and Djamila from business law—are breaking new ground by expanding the Sunstone brand into the burgeoning cannabis and hemp beverage and edible market.

Founded in 2023, Sunstone’s craft beverages and edibles spotlight Santa Barbara County as the geographic place of origin, elevating our local terroir, while promoting a wellnessfocused lifestyle. The Sunstone Spritz beverage line and Sunstone Gem gummies effuse low-dose, low-stakes ease. “We see it as our responsibility to not only elevate the industries but also our region through ethical business practices, innovation and consumer education,” they share. “We aim to

not only reshape perceptions around hemp and cannabis, but also foster a more relatable and integrated culture of consumption for a new mainstream customer. A culture grounded in well-being and quality of life.”

The pair’s roots run deep: as multigenerational natives to Santa Barbara, the Cabugos lead Sunstone with local reverence, taking “painstaking care to adopt and implement practices that minimize our environmental impact, from our vineyards, to our production facilities, to our tasting room.”

With an official launch of hemp-derived THC products in the works, their coming year is chock-full. Yet always topping the couple’s priority list? Keeping active with their three young children, and instilling an agricultural admiration in them. Also crucial: their wide-spanning philanthropic pursuits. Djamila serves as Vice President and Treasurer of the Rona Barrett Foundation, a nonprofit equipping seniors-in-need with affordable housing, and Teddy is

a Board of Directors member at One805, a non-profit uplifting First Responders. Djamila also sits on the Board of Directors of the UCSB Economic Forecast Project, an organization which provides the community with reliable economic, demographic, health, and environmental data and analysis.

The Cabugos’ fresh twist on tradition has granted Sunstone Winery—and their individual causes—a new lease on life, a transformation fueled by fiery ambition and vision for the next era of Santa Barbara agriculture and craft. “It’s been our dream and vision to transition a globally recognized wine brand into a new inclusive era of both wine and cannabis. We believe Santa Barbara County is the pinnacle agriculture region to produce world class cannabis as it is for wines. We are committed to highlighting region-specific, agriculture quality in both markets and innovating cannabis tourism and education for many years to come,” they share.

KIKI ELY

Author Kiki Ely is reclaiming her narrative. She’s a former attorney and event designer who pursued an ambitious gear-shift to tether her profession to her heartstrings—and with five nonfiction books under her belt in five years, the leap of faith is the gift that keeps giving.

With titles such as The Complete Guide to Self Care and Find Your Peace, Kiki is well-versed in self-actualization. Atop the enriching ingredients of emotional, social, physical and spiritual wellness, she personally prioritizes gratitude as a non-negotiable practice.

“I write down three things that I am grateful for each morning. It sets a joyful and abundant tone for the day,” she expresses. “Focused gratitude provides an anchor for the storms of life: if anything difficult appears throughout the day, I can find a grounding point.”

LINDSAY ECKARDT

Lindsay Eckardt, founder and creative director of Kismet, luxury lingerie and loungewear haven of Montecito’s Upper Village, has a dogma to divulge: indulgence in one’s intimates is the ultimate form of self-celebration. The boutique’s namesake implies destiny, but whether it’s fate or the fruits of her labor, Kismet has earned a well-deserved spot on Oprah’s Favorite Things list, just three years after opening.

A beauty and lifestyle maven since age 13, Lindsay sculpts her own professional spaces. Kismet’s fine jewelry and apparel collection is partially-curated, partially designed in-house and the boutique’s sleek, sultry interiors pay testament to Lindsay’s elevated experimentation.

“I had a ton of fun designing Kismet, and previous businesses before that, [where] I’ve used a lot of vintage paintings and fixtures in my designs. If I need something ‘new,’ I hit the antique store first,” she says. Another honorable mention of influence: pillowcases,

Gold rings adorning each finger and a crisp white button-down slipping into vintage jeans, Kiki’s airy uniform feeds the wordsmith in her while writing, and taps the trailblazer in her while guiding retreats and workshops. Inspiration also flows from interior design projects at home, local concerts, and culinary experiences, whether garnished by her self-made signature cocktails, or within the vibrant gastronomy of the Santa Ynez Valley.

Kiki’s prosperity and gratitude for her newfound path lies not only in her resonation with readers, but in the ever-unfolding realities her writing reveals. “As a writer, you create your book in an isolated space with the deepest hope that it is going to someday reach others. When that hope is realized it is a feeling unlike any other,” she says. “There may be many iterations of yourself and your career throughout time—allow this to happen and you will always find something you love in your life and your work.”

as evidenced by the sumptuous, featherclad chandeliers spilling from the boutique’s ceiling.

Emboldened by her two young children and former middle school sweetheart, Lindsay’s ethics and self-efficacy stem from a lineage of love. “I’m the oldest of four kids, raised by a single mom. I joke that oldest sisters are the backbone of society,” she says, a background she honors with persistence. “You can’t replace hard work. The hours matter, the years matter. People will put you in places you want to be if you are consistent and reliable.”

As a volunteer stylist for the American Cancer Society for over 15 years, Lindsay is a believer in the holistic healing power of looking one’s best. As for her own power suit: “All black, always. Lately, I love oversized and baggy,” she says. “Blazer, hoops and a tinted lip balm, and I could take over the world.”

JENIFER SANREGRET

Jenifer Sanregret dedicates herself to making a difference in her community as both the Corporate Giving Manager at the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County and a passionate children's author. Her latest book, The ABCs of S.Y.V., takes young readers on a delightful journey through the Santa Ynez Valley.

Her ultimate goal is to instill a sense of excitement and adventure in children, encouraging them to discover the unique wonders of their hometowns and forge a meaningful connection with their roots. And Jenifer's dedication doesn't stop there. She also works tirelessly to ensure that every person in her community has access to a nutritious meal, blending her professional endeavors with compassion and

a down-to-earth demeanor Originally hailing from Austin, she effortlessly transitions from a flowing floral dress to a powerful business suit, always exuding strength and grace.

Jenifer's philanthropic efforts extend beyond her professional roles. As a board member of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, she is deeply invested in finding a cure for the disease that her eldest son battles every day. Witnessing the challenges her son faces has only fueled her determination to make a difference. Her family spearheads the annual Boots & Birdies for the Cure event at Alisal Ranch, a flagship fundraiser for the Santa Barbara branch that she played a pivotal role in organizing.

So what's next for Jenifer? Naturally, she has plans to create another masterpiece, The ABCs of S.B.C., a stunning watercolor tribute to the beauty and essence of Santa Barbara. In the meantime, she cherishes every moment with her two boys and loving husband, finding solace and relaxation at local spots like the Daisy downtown or Bar Le Cote in Los Olivos.

Jenifer Sanregret is a true embodiment of compassion, dedication, and a genuine love for her community. Her holistic approach to making a difference shines through in every aspect of her life, leaving an indelible mark on Santa Barbara and inspiring others to make an impact in their community.

ASHLEY GHENO

Private chef Ashley Gheno is a connoisseur of celebratory experience. Helming Los Olivos-based La Dolce Vita Catering, she cultivates highquality fare in mass. Her grandmother’s Italian dishes were the crowning glory of her childhood gatherings— Ashley elevates this wistfulness with memorable festive feasts and grazing platters alike. Plucking the best organic ingredients from Central Coast vendors for true farm-to-table delivery, she regales small gatherings and swarming weddings with intimacy that’s fresh.

With delicately sprawled tablescapes that put still life paintings to shame, Ashley’s bespoke menus—rotating with seasonal harvests—are as dynamic as the moments they feed. Her craft has earned the praise of publications like Martha Stewart Weddings, and with the recent launch of her craft cocktail and bar rental enterprise Till Death Do Us Party, La Dolce has gone full-throttle on full-service events.

She strives not only to cultivate classy, clean eating among event-goers, but between her own three children and their surrounding community. “I feel passionate about children and growing a love for healthy food. I worked with an elementary school for two years to develop a farm-to-table lunch program,” she says. Ashley similarly funnels a portion of La Dolce’s annual earnings to nonprofits, working to nourish the foundations of her food networks.

Influenced by the European pace of life that overstates the understated, Ashley finds spirits highest in simple, unhurried moments—her personal favorites of which are marked by movement, meditation, and laughter. She swaps her chef coat for activewear when running, and playing soccer, or exploring the markets and natural bounty of the Santa Ynez Valley.

LAURA DONAHUE

She’s perhaps the truest visionary in the mystic sense of the word. Laura Donahue—or “LaDonna,” her preferred mononym—is an astrology and tarot practitioner, and spiritual beacon to all she meets. A healer at heart, LaDonna seeks to imbue self-empathy and uplifting introspection within clients through natal chart and tarot card readings, hosted at local remedial hubs such as Palma Colectiva.

Her most comprehensive project yet: “Know Thy Self,” her 14-week, one-onone cumulative process shedding light on each individual facet of the self. Throughout each session, she strives to “take a holistic, slow, and embodied journey through clients’ inner landscape, allowing space and time for shifting consciousness, aligning to deep personal truths (sometimes for the first time), and integrating practices to

maintain alignment.” Our innermost selves are written in the stars; LaDonna translates and unveils these realities in real time.

Energized by meaningful conversations, music, and the natural wonder of the Santa Barbara coastline, LaDonna’s guiding forces are grounded in self-healing. She’s likewise lifted by neutral, tonal aesthetics—often sporting a translucent selenite crystal necklace—rich, bold shades, or the protective feel of an allblack ensemble.

In any case, LaDonna looks to the light. “Start to look at everything through a lens of what the people around you need, and what needs you feel called to fulfill,” she shares. “Never stop being the ‘bigger person.’ The world needs more of them.”

SANTA YNEZ-BASED ARTIST MARYVONNE LAPARLIÈRE’S MASTERPIECES STAND THE TEST OF TIME AND TREND.

BY Laura Hupp PHOTOGRAPHY Silas Fallstich

What may just be an armoire to some is a canvas brimming with opportunity for Maryvonne LaParlière, Priscilla Presley’s favorite artist. “Priscilla told me I could say that,” LaParlière clarifies laughing. It doesn’t take much convincing to see why. On my Sunday visit to LaParlière's Solvang studio and showroom, her creations exude joy and happiness, transforming any space they inhabit.

To my left sits an antique bedside table brought to life with bright blues and pinks and birds and cherry blossoms. It’s the sort of piece you decorate your whole house around; it is that exquisite. I am left somewhat speechless as I turn to the armoire that I was convinced was actually a clock. With 24 karat gold trim, floral edges, and cherubs, the carriage clock cabinet is a masterpiece. As if the work could not amaze me more, LaParlière opens it to show its functional use as storage. A non-running clock is only right two times a day. Her’s is 5:05, her time of birth in France.

Born just outside Paris, LaParlière spent her youth in Rueil-Malmaison near Malmaison Château, home of Empress Josephine the first wife of Napoléon. Here, her love for nature and decorative painting flourished. It was also the place where Monet and Renoir depicted so well the boating, picnicking and dancing along the charming banks of the Seine scenes. “Monet and Renoir imprinted on the canvas of my soul as an artist,” LaParlière recalls.

While studying at the prestigious art school Les Beaux Arts in Tours, France, the limitations of painting on canvas started to inhibit LaParlière’s work style. “I could never fit my art on the canvas,” she says.

Murals and antique furniture were her solution. A pioneer of wrapping furniture in paint, LaParlière created a name for herself doing work for, not just the Presleys, but the Prince of Indonesia and Kelly LeBrock, to name a few.

After a proper tour of her studio, LaParlière invites me to her Santa Ynez home just four minutes away for an espresso and a chat. At first glance, the patio appears to be lined with spanish tiles and the marble tables seem to be, well, marble. But, neither one is what it seems. The “tile” is actually stucco and the “marble” is actually wood, both hand painted by LaParlière. Her husband Steve Martin “not the actor” makes espresso while we settle into her living room. In my direct eyeline is possibly the most magnificent piece of art I have ever seen. Standing nine feet tall and almost six feet wide is her Life Armoire. While an entire profile could be written on each and every detail of the design, LaParlière offers a preview of the flow and harmony that exists throughout the piece.

The draping midnight blue King’s train in the top left is an homage to King Louis XIV who was regarded as the Sun King, which is honored by the sun in the top right corner. Below the bright orange orb sits a small candelabra representing the candle ceremony that would occur every night at the palace of Versailles when the king retired to his bed. The butterflies evolve into butterfly fish and the crimson robe and white gown retreating into the doors nods to Cardinal de Richelieu, the patron of the arts and powerful ruler. Every brushstroke on the armoire has a purpose and a story. My personal favorite part is the small golden wings that protrude from the bottom corners of the cabinet. “The piece is so heavy, I added them to lighten it a little,” she says.

I break into a smile while admiring. I’m not entirely sure why, but the beauty of the work, of all her work for that matter, just emits a euphoric feeling. “My theory is that some people come on earth for a reason. My mission was to paint and create beauty to make people smile.” She is without doubt accomplishing that mission.

“In this era of abstractionism, mixed media, installations, and A.I., I can’t help feeling that my artwork is classified in the world of endangered species,” LaParlière says. I think it makes her work more important now than ever.

While I dusted over the friendship between Priscilla Presley and LaParlière, their bond is quite special. In the late 80s, she took a job painting marble over a fireplace in Beverly Hills. Unbeknownst to her, the fireplace was Priscilla’s. Impressed with what she was able to do, she commissioned LaParlière to work on her new place in Big Bear. “I lived there for two months painting every day,” she says. From the kitchen floor to Lisa Marie’s room and pieces of furniture, Maryvonne’s artistic touch ran through the home. During tough times, LaParlière was a trustworthy confidant for Priscilla.

Maryvonne LaParlière’s warm persona was noticed not just by Priscilla and myself, but by all her clients. She became the godmother of Kelly LeBrock’s daughter, even living in their guesthouse for a period of time. While she radiates so much jubilation in her work, her kind and humble attitude does so even more.

As for retirement, LaParlière tried. “I realized I could never stop painting. For me, being an artist is an everyday state of living.” Her version of retiring is the freedom of creativity. “I am so lucky to now be free to create anything I want outside of what is trendy.” The pink poppy sunset scene encasing a vintage secretary desk, which she calls her “Barbie Desk” is her current freedom project. “I just loved that movie.” The wooden bear adorned in a fall and winter mountain depiction is another.

For the Santa Barbarian not feeling up for the journey north, Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital has 70 feet of her work on display for locals to enjoy. But if you want my advice, the opportunity to meet the wonderful Maryvonne LaParlière and see the beauty of her art is well worth the drive. Just give Maryvonne a call when you plan to visit and she welcomes you to view her “Museum of Decorative Painting.”*

Maryvonne accepts special commissions for your own piece of art and will discuss its creation with you according to both your wishes and her vision inspired by your project.

SMIKOH 15at

FOUNDER-SISTER DUO OLEEMA AND KALANI MILLER ON GROWING UP WITH THE BRAND

BY Nicole Johnson

PHOTOGRAPHY Ryan T. Foley

omething’s in the water at the Miller households. Sisters Oleema and Kalani are celebrating a milestone fifteenth year of their bikini-loving brainchild MIKOH, a rare pillar of modern, minimalistic swimwear and resort finery that has not just remained on the radar, but consistently on the mark, since its 2009 inception.

MIKOH’s elevated classic cuts and breathable coastal essentials could bear no better stamp of authenticity: their makers are born-and-bred Orange County surfers. Oleema—a former professional waverider—heads

creative and design, and Kalani—a UCSB alumna—is all business. A full-throttle transition to sustainable materials marks just one recent addition to MIKOH’s drawing board, joining the Miller’s inspired wanderlust and reverence for women’s bodies. A handful of Sports Illustrated covers and Miami Swim Weeks later, the duo are cutting out just enough time in their nomadic calendars for a bit of nostalgia.

I called the pair to catch up on all things Santa Barbara, (never quite) settling down, and moments ahead—which include welcoming incoming additions to the family.

I'm reaching both of you from Oahu right now: do either of you live there part time? I know you’re always globetrotting.

I’ve been here more lately. I’m actually pregnant, so I’ve called Hawaii more of a home base for the last couple of months—I think we're going have the baby here! Still, California will always be home; we’re from San Clemente, so we’ll always be back and forth.

That's amazing, congratulations! Kalani, what about you?

My partner and I split our time between Florida, California, Hawaii, and Australia almost equally. We still consider Santa Barbara a home base too, especially since I went to UCSB. It's always in our five-year plan to move back up there.

I know you two grew up coming up the coast to Santa Barbara; how would you say you continue to connect with the local community?

Being a part of the surfing community— it’s so connected, especially up there.

Our parents actually still own property at Hollister Ranch, so we were up there in September to October. It was the first time we had done a full family trip with all of our partners. I think that's one of the best things, like Kalani said, about the surfing community: it’s so connected that whether you're at the beach in Hawaii, or in Orange County, or in Santa Barbara, you see the same people.

Totally. It's also wild to me that you both launched the business at 19 and 21, respectively, and that you, Kalani, were fresh out of school here.

I was actually still at UCSB. It was so funny: I was in a business writing class, and convinced our team to do a business plan for a swimwear company.

I had called Kalani with the idea of starting a swimsuit company, and I remember she’d had the class that day. She was like, ‘Perfect, let me talk to my fellow students.’

It definitely wasn't accurate for what we do, because it was like a fake business plan based in Arizona. You remember that, Kalani?

No, it was Delaware. [Laughs]

It’s funny: even though it's 15 years later, I think we're still shooting from the hip and just trying to figure it out as we go along.

It sounds like the stars aligned with that phone call. Can you tell me a little bit about what celebrating 15 years in business means to the both of you? How has it felt seeing the brand grow, and be so widely adored; and how have you two grown in the process?

They tell you not to work with family— that's the number one golden rule. But I think one of the biggest blessings, although of course we've had our ups and downs, is that we've gotten to grow up and enjoy and expand and mature, not just through the business, but also as individuals, and as sisters. As Kalani and I reflect back on the last 15 years, many of the biggest moments of our lives have been connected to MIKOH.

One of the things that I've loved the most about MIKOH throughout—especially now that I’m 35, and we started when we were so young—is that so many of the women that wear our suits to this day have also grown up with us. So in a weird way, I always refer to MIKOH as another family member, because it's played such a huge role in not just me and Kalani’s lives, but also my family’s: they've come along for photo shoots, and my brother works with us.

I think it’s just phenomenal—if I were an outsider—to see a brand that has been able to still be as relevant and authentic today as it was when I look at the very first photo shoot from 2010. We really stayed triedand-true to the things that matter most, which is all about being confident and sexy in your own skin, and feeling feminine and powerful in what you're wearing. I love that our clothes and our swimsuits have been there for so many of the biggest memories

SBLS Oleema Miller

SBLS Kalani Miller

in our lives and have also been there for a lot of the women that wear them.

Given the swim market is increasingly oversaturated, I was going to ask how your designs, your impact and your values stand apart, but I feel like you touched on that— it’s that timelessness.

Of course we've followed trends to a certain extent, when one-shoulder silhouettes or one pieces are more in, whatever it may be. But I think because we've never diluted who we are or brought in other designers or creatives, but have honed in on our vision, people have resonated with us. I think swimsuits are like beautiful lingerie or undergarments: people like what they like. And 15 years later, people are still coming to MIKOH because they know they can get a beautifully fitted suit, with a nice silhouette and a perfect cut on the butt, year after year, and season after season, that they’ll keep in their closet forever.

Incredible. What are each of you proudest of in the last 15 years?

For me, it’s Oleema and I being young, passionate women who truly love what they do, and building a company that we still love being a part of every single day.

It again goes back to the importance of authenticity. In today's world, especially with social media, I feel it's so easy to lose your identity and to fall victim to the trends or to fitting in. Like Kalani said, obviously being here 15 years later—after some of the most tumultuous times in the world, it seems—and still coming out knowing exactly who we are and what the MIKOH brand stands for is very powerful. And it’s hopefully inspiring to young women: you can have this clear path and vision and stick to it, despite what maybe the outside world is telling you.

I think also, like you said, having timeless pieces and seeing women of all different shapes and sizes wear MIKOH. That's something I'm really proud of: making people feel confident and beautiful in basically nothing.

Going along that line of thought—I feel like anyone could speak to the embracing feeling of your products. Our SBLS publisher, Ottocina, is pregnant right now, and is genuinely wearing one of the two piece Matuku top and Tambo skirt sets every time I see her.

Oh my gosh. I love it. Yeah, I've never been pregnant before, and obviously, being in Hawaii, all I wear every day is MIKOH, whether it's our swimsuits or dresses. Like Kalani said, we've done a lot of different photoshoots called ‘Our MIKOH’ where we've had women of all different ages, generations, shapes and sizes, and now that's kind of me. [Laughs] I've never been that different in my own body. We actually did this little shoot the other day, and there's this one photo that particularly stands out to me, which says ‘the curves of a woman.’ It's truly crazy what women's bodies can do.

Clothing just plays such an important role in life. Even the t-shirt I'm wearing today: I wore it back when I was in Positano, and now I look at it and I remember wearing it and drinking rosé. I love that swimsuits and clothing now play such a big role in these crazy memories of how my body's changing. We're having a baby girl, so it's so fun and inspiring to think that I'm able to pass these memories on to her.

100 percent. I know she’ll be wearing MIKOH Mini every day.

Yes, of course. [Laughs]

More recently, you two started the Strength Collection, which I know was inspired by a conversation with a woman in Montecito that really hit home. Tell me about what that collection meant to MIKOH.

It actually started at the Rosewood Miramar: we were having drinks one night with some girlfriends that live up there, and this woman, Shelly, pulled me aside and was telling me how she was a longtime fan of MIKOH. She was a breast cancer survivor, and wanted to compliment me on how the suits fit, but said that there were only certain silhouettes that she felt

really comfortable in because she’d had a double mastectomy, so she had scars. She said, ‘I don't know if this is ever something you'd think about: making suits for women who were either undergoing treatment or already had surgeries?’

In that moment, these flashes of all the women in my life who have been affected by breast cancer came to mind. I was like, ‘Oh, my God, I can't believe I hadn’t thought of this sooner.’ That was one of those really amazing, ‘aha’ moments that connected me to Shelly forever. That photoshoot that we did in particular was very moving, because there was a girl there that was my age that was currently undergoing treatment, and a few others that were in remission. So to create something to give back to another huge community of women—one in eight

women will get affected by breast cancer— and make them feel strong, confident, beautiful, and part of a community was very impactful.

The Strength Collection is something we're doing each season. It was important for me from a design perspective to have it be integrated so the pieces don't necessarily stand out as being something separate, which, instead of just giving back, also brings them in. That's something that we've done for the last two seasons that's very important to us.

That's absolutely incredible. Another kind of recent collection update was in 2021, when you had your first eco-friendly, recycled nylon fabric line. Is MIKOH fully transitioning to solely using sustainably sourced fabrics?

Yes, moving forward, all of our swim is made from recycled fabrics. Our recent clothing collections have also been changing over to sustainable materials like 100% cotton, linen, and hemp—the majority of our ready-to-wear collection is now natural fabrics without any synthetics. Obviously any part that we can do, to not just give back, but to not contribute to such a huge waste problem by creating sustainable materials that are earthderived is so important for us to continue to do throughout each season.

Also all of our poly bags—everything that we ship in—are also biodegradable. I actually use poly bags a lot of time for dog poop bags. [Laughs] Even if you have to create waste, you can always at least find multiple uses for it. We also design our suits so they are built to last the test of time. I’m still wearing great classic bottoms from 2010, which is another way we’re creating resistance to fast fashion.

There's a palpable sustainability focus with MIKOH. Your lines also spring from your lifelong relationship with the ocean— Oleema, obviously you have a professional surfing background. Would you say the last 15 years of MIKOH have furthered that spiritual connection to the ocean?

Definitely. I look back on my entire life, and the ocean has been our backyard. Having parents who literally live and breathe everything to do with the ocean, the beach, nature, and the outdoors has truly ingrained that connection into who I am and who Kalani is. And now I look at the choices I've made in my life: who I've married, who I'm having a baby with, where I live, what MIKOH stands for, and where it's brought me on all of my travels... it's always circled back to surfing and the ocean being at the root of everything. As I enter motherhood, it's something so important that I want to pass down to our daughter. There's nothing better than surfing and the ocean—they have definitely given me all of the very best things in life.

I date a professional surfer—so our life is literally determined by swells. And having a company where we’re able to travel and be led by the ocean—I'm so grateful to be able to intertwine my work and personal life seamlessly. Again, as Oleema said earlier about authenticity: being able to live and breathe a true beachwear lifestyle— and to test the products ourselves—is really special.

That's amazing. Switching gears to the everyday, what have you two been up to lately?

Anyone that knows me knows I'm kind of in a perpetual go, go, go, do, do, do—there’s always something to do, somewhere to go, someone to see. And being pregnant has— whether I’ve liked it or not—forced me to slow down and realize that everything has worked out in such a serendipitous, beautiful way. I'm so happy that we've created this beautiful home life here in Hawaii and still have our connection to California: I feel like I have the best of both worlds, but get to be here for this more slow, feminine, nurturing part of life. It’s been a big time for reflection. Being able to go for a little ocean dip or hike is just something that is so good for the mental and physical self. And having Kalani here at the same time is one of the best parts.

“You can have this clear path and vision and stick to it, despite what maybe the outside world is telling you.”

They say women can do it all: you can run a business, you can have a baby, you can do this, and you can do that. But one thing I've actually learned is it's okay to also not do it all. And as much as I've loved work, and I think what this phase of life has taught me is balance. I think it's what they call the soft girl era. [Laughs] So I'm excited to teach my baby girl that yes, you can do it all. You can also do it in a beautiful, feminine way, and have boundaries just as much as you can also show up 110 percent.

That's an incredible perspective. Kalani, any recent realizations you’d like to share?

I think being so young when we started MIKOH has been a learning process. Oleema and I are still learning every single day; neither of us have done this before. Every time something comes up, we go, well, let's try and figure it out. It has been fun reflecting back on 15 years: I can't believe that we’ve been able to do something that has had so much success. It’s really, really special.

It’s been an honor and a pleasure talking to you two.

Oh my gosh, thank you for thinking of us! We’ve loved sharing our story.

Especially when it has to do with Santa Barbara—it’s always a highlight reel for us.

Ooh, I could go eat some soup from Pierre Lafond right now. [Laughs]*

unjaded

MONTECITO LOCAL ELISA STAD EMBRACES DIVERSITY AND ENCOURAGES OTHERS TO DO THE SAME IN HER NEW CHILDREN’S BOOK MAMA’S LOVE LANGUAGE

BY Laura Hupp

By the time Elisa Stad hops on our 11 a.m. call, she has already completed her morning Buddhist chant, gotten three kids ready for and to school, taken her bernedoodle for a walk at Miramar Beach, worked out, and handled engagements for her various nonprofits. Stad, mother, philanthropist, business executive, and now author, is truly a jack of all trades.

After living “kind of everywhere,” Elisa and her family put down roots in Montecito. “One of the worries I had moving here was the lack of diversity in terms of culture,” Stad expresses. So, she did something about it. At her children’s school, Montecito Union, she founded a Diversity Club. “It’s not just for kids that have darker skin, it’s for anybody who wants to share about their culture.”

She didn’t stop there. “I’ve always wanted to write a children’s book. Since I was 15 it’s been in the back of my head.” Moving to Santa Barbara was the opportunity for her to do just that. “There is something about living here that gives you more space to go into the creative realm and have a moment to think and reflect about what moves you.” Her book, Mama’s Love Language, tells the story of young Jade as she navigates acceptance of her multicultural heritage. Living in a town where everyone seems to look the same, Jade struggles to come to terms with her darker skin and darker hair. At school, she is asked to draw a self portrait. “Instead of drawing a picture of herself, as she sees herself in the mirror, she draws herself how she wants to see herself, looking like all the other kids.” She starts to reject her culture, refusing to eat traditional Chinese dishes, which upsets her mother greatly. “Her mom doesn’t show affection. She makes sure her job gets done, she’s fed, and she’s picked up from school, but there’s not a lot of hugs and kisses,” Elisa explains.

When Jade learns more about her mother’s childhood as a refugee in the war and all she sacrificed, like going to school and having a full meal, she realizes that her mother really does love her, she just shows it a little differently.

“I want kids to feel seen. As a child, I didn’t have a lot of examples of stories that reflected my life. There wasn’t a protagonist that looked like me and had my story,”

Elisa says. Now, there is. Stad has ventured all across Southern California reading her story at bookstores, libraries, and children’s boutiques, including Poppy at Montecito Country Mart. “The reason I wrote this book is these connections and conversations that are happening between parent and child or grandparent and child.” At one reading, a mother came up to her in tears wondering why she was crying at a children’s book. “It’s a very emotional story. Kids connect with the book from Jade’s perspective, but adults actually see it on a deeper emotional level,” Elisa says.

The daughter of a Vietnamese refugee mother and American father, Stad’s own story isn’t all that different from Jade’s. She spent her formative years in Idaho, in a town with a similar demographic to Montecito. Also like Jade, she grew up eating Hainan Chicken Rice, a poached poultry dish served with a ginger flavored broth and rice. “I actually had a case growing up where it was my birthday, and my mom made that and I wanted hamburgers instead. I was so upset, but now I really embrace it and we make that meal at home.”

For Jade, meals are where she starts to learn her mom’s love language. “Cooking and eating can be healing. It can help you understand and it can connect two people together.”

In the community, Stad has started food fairs at Montecito Union and encouraged students and parents to embrace their traditional cultural dishes. Beyond local initiatives, Elisa and her husband founded the Stad Center of Pain, Palliative, and Integrative Medicine for Children at UCSF where children, no matter the scale of their ailment, can seek treatment via both Eastern and Western modalities.

“Let’s say someone has bad migraines. You can take drugs, that's one avenue. There are surgeries. There’s also acupressure, acupuncture, there’s food you can eat, we have psychologists, we have literal hypnosis. Parents can make a decision on how they want to care for their kid and feel good about it, not helpless,” Elisa explains.

When Elisa Stad's grandmother adorned herself with her jade bracelet each morning, she likely didn't foresee the significance it would acquire. Beyond its traditional Chinese connotations of strength, jade has evolved into a symbol of embracing and honoring one's culture—for Elisa and all those her work has touched.*

E Y E F O R D E S I G N

INTERIOR DESIGNER JESSICA JUBELIRER’S ARTISANAL SPACES BRING TIMELESS MODERNITY TO SANTA BARBARA

BY Alexandra Lee PHOTOGRAPHY Douglas Friedman STYLING Mieke ten Have

When an interior is reimagined with the Jessica Jubelirer touch, the telltale signs are vintage chairs, artisan elements, and an abundance of charisma. You might not know at first glance, but each textured wallpaper, hand-painted tile and woven chair has lived a storied past, whether it be through Jessica’s travels around the globe, or as a beloved remnant of a client’s childhood. Sitting down to chat with the design visionary, who has been named a “New American Voice” by Architectural Digest, some things are for certain: her flow of inspiration is never-ending, and no two interiors are ever alike.

Founded in Whitefish Bay in 2008 (she’s a born and bred Midwesterner), Jessica’s studio has since expanded to Palm Beach and New York, and opened its Santa Barbara branch in 2023. She characterizes her design style as “timeless modernity,” emphasizing the incorporation of one-of-a-kind artisanal elements while innovating through unexpected functions of design—a unique and personal style that’s earned her nationwide acclaim. In a current design landscape where so much is focused on the monochromatic and minimalist, Jessica reinvents the wheel by remembering how to layer and patchwork texture, pattern, color play, and nostalgia.

“While people don’t want their grandmother’s home, they want something they’ve never seen before, and our studio gives them just that,” she says, referencing the nostalgic familiarity evoked by many of her designs. Timelessness is found in the rich detail and storied pasts of the artisanal elements she incorporates, from hand-painted Portuguese tile to mid-century modernist pieces from Italy. Simultaneously, she’s an innovator, undertaking new projects like tiling cupolas and covering walls in grasscloth, or ceilings in woven wicker.

While “heritage” or “heirloom” techniques, such as handpainting, hand-weaving, and embroidery, form the basis of Jessica’s organic design process, the end result is always modern in a sense that reflects the client’s wants and needs, and focuses on how the space will actually be lived in. “The homes we create with our clients intentionally result in lingering, because they’re so multifaceted and layered,” she says.

Take, for example, one such recent project in collaboration with UK-based design studio Fromental in which Jessica unveils “Ammaliare,” a masterpiece wallpaper featuring raw silk, a hand-painted botanical motif inspired by Paris in the 1920s, and finished with raffia, leather, and cotton embroidery. “You stop in your tracks when you see it, yet it’s so soft that you can discover it. That’s a hallmark of our work,” Jessica says.

Where does this inspiration come from? “Our work is incredibly personal, so a client’s favorite flower or their herb garden, anything can be the starting point for a room or a home, let alone their personal story,” Jessica remarks. Case in point, she holds up a handmade paper sample encrusted with seeds from a client’s garden, the inspiration for a wallpaper to come. There’s a strong desire from both Jessica and her clients to return to “authentic individuality,” straying away from the homogenous elements of technology that drive our everyday lives.

Jessica’s business strives to support the artisans, near and far, that make her work possible. Every odd and end found in her spaces personifies layers of history. “I’m a treasure hunter at heart,” she says, before launching into a tale (a favorite of her husband’s to tell), about one such unlikely spot to treasure hunt. Hiking through the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, Jessica and her husband David, ended up in the home of a local family that was weaving intricate rugs on the mountain floor. “The next day, David had to find a way to rent a donkey to bring a dozen rugs down the mountain!” she exclaims.

“Now I find myself schlepping my little children in tow in Paris to vintage textile shops, just asking them to get ice cream while I paw through a pile of reclaimed tile.” While Jessica’s inspiration is informed by a lifetime of

international travel, she always returns to a strong sense of place. Inspired primarily by history and nature, Jessica quickly discovered that the intrinsic beauty of Santa Barbara would provide the perfect catalyst for her eclectic style to flourish, while also creating the perfect backdrop to raise her family.

There is a common thread amongst her Santa Barbara clientele, Jessica admits, noting their appreciation of artistry and craftsmanship. “There’s a desire to do something unique, personal, and special, and the fundamental love of natural materials—hand-painted tiles, antiques, mid-century modernist pieces from Italy or Finland...” and the list goes on.

Jessica’s love for interior design was essentially hereditary, growing up as a little helper to her mother, a quilter and weaver. Developing a respect for the craft from a young age, she learned firsthand how artistry can bring people together, and now brings that authenticity into her own home. Her lakeside family cottage in Wisconsin (also known as her “patch of serenity”), has been featured in Architectural Digest due to its extraordinary artistic elements, namely a fabric-wrapped fridge, vintage chairs reupholstered in Raf Simons fabric, hand-painted Portuguese-tiled kitchen, grass cloth-covered bedroom, and beyond. “To receive that recognition from the authority of design really shines a light on our point of view, which is quite different. I think there is a beautiful reception right now to our work because it is different, yet familiar,” she says.

And right she is. A home being a delicate fusion of modernity, nostalgia, and comfort, Jessica’s eye for detail and talent for handling the deeply personal oozes warmth, intentionality and invitation from every nook and cranny. Cues as miniscule as a woman’s patterned dress or a vaguely reminiscent scent can evoke a kaleidoscope of layers and textures, just waiting to unfold with Jessica’s unique vision.

“I always say that my favorite project is the next one!” she laughs. “Because I’m always cooking in the creative kitchen.” In that case, Santa Barbara’s future is certainly looking bright.*

sundays

PHOTOGRAPHY Jon Premosch | STYLIST Ottocina Ryan MODELS Maitlyn Simmons with Two Management & Liza Kei with Wilhelmina HAIR Corinne Viruet with Carlyle Salon & Style Bar | MAKEUP Ja’Nice Ramos PROPERTY 1781 Glen Oaks Drive, Montecito Listed with Nancy Kogevinas | 805-450-6233 | MontecitoProperties.com

Dress SIMKHAI K Frank Hat GRAND CENTRAL HATS Allora By Laura Necklace ETTIKA Bracelet ANNE SISTERON

Gloves MAGDA BUTRYM The Webster Rolls-Royce Ghost in Arctic White

Dress FENDI The Webster

Sunglasses SALT Allora By Laura Gloves MAGDA BUTRYM The Webster

Swimsuit MONTCE Kariella Earrings & bracelet ANNE SISTERON Pool Float GARDEN GLORY

Rolls-Royce Ghost in Arctic White

BEACHFRONT VILLA

Dress MOMONI Allora By Laura

Shoes RODO Allora By Laura Rings ANNE SISTERON Blanket & playing cards HERMÈS

Shirt A.L.C. K Frank Skirt GUCCI The Webster Bracelets ANNE SISTERON

Swimsuit GUCCI The Webster Bangles CATORI Sunglasses BANBÉ Sirena

Bikini BONDI BORN Shirt GIVENCHY The Webster Earrings ANNE SISTERON

WATCH BEHIND THE SCENES

Handbag KARIELLA Ring ANNE SISTERON Bracelet JUNIPER Strawberries SWEET WHEEL FARMS

kOHANAiki

PRIVATE RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY AND GOLF CLUB KOHANAIKI IS AN ADULT PLAYGROUND ON HAWAII’S KONA COAST

BY Alexandra Lee

Summer is approaching, and everyone is in need of a vacation. Exhibit A: my plane touches down on a runway nestled between acres of black lava flow on the Big Island of Hawaii. Where I’m headed, although it includes the quintessential vacation amenities of a world-class spa, oceanfront golf course, and company of well-heeled bon vivants, is a different type of getaway. It’s the sort of destination where guests check in without a return flight booked, where celebrities and billionaires (literally) come to hide away with the promise of extreme privacy. It’s what could be considered the world’s most luxurious home away from home.

I keep this in mind as my driver pulls up to the gated entrance of Kohanaiki, a one-of-a-kind, members-only private residential community located on a 450-acre swath of pristine Kona coastline. I glimpse a few baby goats, the most adorable trespassers, traipsing the black rock adjacent the lush, palm-lined driveway before being whisked away to my one-bedroom house (or hale, in the local tongue). Though the property is sprawling, I’m informed that it’s only about a third of the way built—470 total residences are projected, in addition to the standing 100.

My hale is complete with a fully-outfitted kitchen stocked with local coffee and snacks, and a full backyard featuring a free-hanging daybed, hot plunge pool, and outdoor shower. The kitchen’s sliding pocket doors disappear to reveal a fusion of indoor-outdoor living, while spa music infuses the air through the Sonos sound system. Much to my delight, I discover a mini fridge piled with Häagen-Dazs ice cream bars ready and waiting in the backyard. Perhaps my favorite amenity, however, is the two electric golf carts, both labeled “Lee ‘Ohana,” to be my designated vehicles of transport throughout my stay. I muse that I could get my steps in by walking...but isn’t driving a golf cart way more fun?

My first joyride through the property proves an exhilarating thrill in navigating its maze of roads, though I eventually make my way to the landmark Clubhouse. A traditional canoe marks its entrance, where the concierge desks and computers are stationed outdoors— something you would only find on the leeward side of a tropical island. Famished from my morning flight, I pull up a barstool for an obligatory pre-dinner snack before gazing around the 67,0000 square-foot space, designed with natural wood and accents in an ode to traditional Hawaiian architecture.

“Though its list of members is beyond exclusive, the atmosphere at Kohanaiki couldn't be more dressed-down.”

KOHANAIKI DINING

Though its list of members is beyond exclusive, the atmosphere at Kohanaiki couldn't be more dresseddown. The restaurant servers don Hawaiian shirts and an approachable sense of humor while helping you decide between poke selections. The relationship between guests and staff is mutually beneficial, I’m told, each party revealing that they come to know each other like family, and would rather ask how each other’s wife is doing than what the menu specials are. At this home away from home, the meaning of “ohana” rings true.

I find myself seated across from Kohanaiki’s Director of Wine, Andy Myers, who also happens to be one of only 273 Master Sommeliers in the world, and the only one on the island. For the prestige of the title, Andy doesn’t look the part—his relaxed, joke-riddled persona matches his casual Hawaiian shirt and mismatched compression socks, which he sports with confidence. Andy launches into tales of his background in wine, which begin with the break-up of his high school punk rock band (“Surprise, we didn't make it,” he jokes), and continues with his time spent working for acclaimed chef and personality José Andrés.

As he pours the rest of my Veneto region white into a roadie and hops in my golf cart’s passenger seat, Andy divulges that his speciality is actually European wines. “It might sound strange coming from a guy who talks a lot, but I like my wines to listen.”

We arrive at Beach Restaurant, where dining tables pepper the sandy beachfront, just as the sun is starting to set. Andy pulls out his phone to show me a video of a whale breaching only 50 yards offshore a week prior. Pork belly lettuce cups arrive, and Andy cracks open a rare bottle of 2009 Rioja. Samantha Tsui, Kohanaiki’s Director of Marketing, sits to my right, and we dive into a discussion about island life over fresh seafood. Her morning commute to work, I learn, is the 30-minute flight from Oahu to the Big Island. I’m taking notes— sounds a lot better than rush hour traffic.

That night, after narrowly avoiding the draw of a HäagenDazs bar, I tuck into bed early, anticipating my 7:30 a.m. pilates class. I’m a clear novice next to guests whose non-shaky form is a hint at their expertise in the subject. I stroll to the adjacent Clubhouse and fill a to-go cup with Kona coffee before embarking on a morning stroll around the golf course. Designed by Rees Jones, who is renowned for reconstructing famous courses including East Lake in Atlanta and Torrey Pines in La Jolla, the course features six oceanfront holes and is intentionally built around the property’s sacred lands, including 13 impeccably preserved ahus. Three awe-inspiring “golf hales,” or comfort stations, line the course, each fully

decked out with mai tai machines, Kohanaiki brews, and self-serve ice cream. I stop to sip on my coffee and observe as the morning crowd gets their clubs ready for action on the house-grown bermuda grass (yes, there’s also a grass farm on property).

Breakfast soon follows at Kōnane Restaurant, where I indulge in another Kona coffee and toast with Kona avocados and Kamuela tomatoes. Back at the hale, I take some solitude time to journal in the backyard before packing a beach bag. By now, I’m getting used to the maze of roads, and it’s less than 10 minutes before I’ve parked along the beachfront, leaving my keys unattended.

A margarita and cabana nap later, I head down to the water, examining seashells and clusters of rocky shoreline until something flickers in the corner of my vision.

A black crab, camouflaged seamlessly with the volcanic rock, scuttles by. As my eyes adjust, I realize scores of them have been there all along, perched proudly atop their territory with watchful eyes towards me, the giant newcomer.

Sun-soaked hours pass until it’s time for an appointment at the spa. I slip into a robe for my 90-minute Noni Pohaku massage, which uses a combination of healing noni leaf to saturate the skin while hot stones, or “pohaku,” melt every bit of tension from my back and legs. I wrap up my spa treatment with a measly attempt at the cold plunge pool, followed by warming up in the dry sauna.

My evening cravings for fresh fish lead me back to Kōnane, where the specialty sushi roll changes every night, and the highest-quality fish is flown in from Japan. I go for a classic spicy tuna roll, miso soup, and a few pieces of Otoro nigiri, a sumptuous (albeit rich) end to the meal. I skip dessert in search of late-night adventure, exploring the Clubhouse’s lower level, where a neon sign reading “Cinema” draws my attention. The movie theater is occupied, so I stock up on a bag of fresh popcorn, licorice, and M&Ms before heading home for a personal movie night on one of the hale’s flat-screen TVs.

The next morning at breakfast, the waitress remembers my coffee order and aids in my indecisive struggle between the Kona Local, a heaping breakfast of fried rice, eggs, and ponzu marinated salmon, or lighter fare. I opt for the latter, as I’m set for a date with the Adventure Team at 9:30 a.m. I soon find myself face to face with a four-person outrigger canoe, while Toby, our adventure guide, instructs me to take the helm, while informing me that our paddling must be in sync or we run the risk of flipping over. No pressure, I think to myself, trying not to picture what marine life could be lurking beneath the glassy surface.

MASTER BEDROOM

We’ve eventually paddled far enough to the right that we get a clear view of Pine Trees, and though it’s overcast, several surfers are out testing their luck. Kohanaiki prides itself on the fact that this beachfront, which takes up 100 acres of its 450, has been dedicated back to the county for public access, part of the property’s mission to uplift and give back to the local community. The Kohanaiki Foundation has contributed over $1.2 million to charitable organizations throughout the island, while Kohanaiki ‘Ohana is a 501c3 nonprofit founded to run local educational and stewardship opportunities.

After returning to shore and successfully spying bright coral at Kohanaiki’s reef, I prop myself up in a beach chair, gazing out at the jewel-toned ocean before picking up my book. Yet again, something flickers in the corner of my eye—this time, a moving fin. I’m in disbelief as I watch the shark fin swim back and forth, suddenly extra grateful that I had obeyed Toby’s instructions.

“When you come to Hawaii, you’re not coming to a different state, you're coming to a different country,” Andy had said during our first meal. I come to find that everything at Kohanaiki circles back to this sentiment, from the practice of Hawaiian language and traditional “talk story” to the preserved artifacts displayed from generations of ancestors—for example, the KepaKepa canoe carved out of a log that belonged to Cultural Advisor Uncle Reggie’s ancestors. Or, his late mother “Aunty” Elizabeth Maluihi Lee’s intricately woven pāpale hats, for which she was named a Living Treasure by the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.

From the four-lane bowling alley, on-site microbrewery, and movie theater to an exclusive Chateau Mouton Rothschild collection, personal wine lockers, and secretive concealed cigar room, perfectly orchestrated treasures lie in wait of discovery around every palm frond. Guests will never have to pull out a wallet, enforcing the true mentality of an escape far from the throes of reality. If anything, my visit confirms that Kohanaiki is full of hidden gems designed to take days, weeks, and months to fully uncover, much like the sacred ancestral treasures that adorn the Clubhouse’s artifact room.

Rather than a private residential community, Kohanaiki is an adult-friendly playground in paradise where virtually every answer is yes. So, it’s your turn. Book a flight and say yes *

WHAT to PACK

Islander Essentials

1STAUD CROSS-COURT TWO-TONE MINIDRESS

$245

Sport this fashion-meetsfunction number for practice swings on the driving range and endless rounds of tennis. The classic silhouette will aid your ace and ensure you’re the best dressed on the court. saksfifthavenue.com

2

VERSACE MEDUSA HALTER SWIMSUIT

$725

Quiet luxury is still in, and it doesn’t stop at clothing. This sleek, structured staple one-piece will take you from water aerobics classes to oceanside cold plunges, and everything in between. saksfifthavenue.com

CLE DE PEAU UV PROTECTIVE CREAM SPF 50+

$140

More than your basic sunscreen, this luxurious cream protects while providing 10-hour moisture and diminishing fine lines, so you won’t get dried out from hours spent in the sun. Win, win! cledepeaubeaute.com

4

While we love a wide brim, this woven raffia bucket hat will effectively shade your face without taking up loads of room in your carry-on. Plus, its neutral color goes with everything! jacquemus.com

by ALEXANDRA LEE

BACK RELAX &

A SCOTT DUNN-CURATED JOURNEY THROUGH SINGAPORE AND INDONESIA

BY Ottocina Ryan

My sister and I take an annual trip together, typically to bucket list locales such as Fargo and middle-of-nowhere North Carolina. On such escapades, milking cows and thrifting are main activities. Planning includes blindly pointing to a place on the map and scouring Airbnb for the most authentic (read: weird) dwelling. Yet, with a lifetime’s worth of bizarre encounters to our names, Peg and I figured it was time to go somewhere nice...somewhere you’d actually want to go.

Naturally, this would entail more planning that we’re qualified for. Enter Scott Dunn. We handed over coordination to the San Diego-based luxury travel agency. Their Asia travel specialist Jeff Robers led the way for a Southeast Asia adventure, a place I had merely skimmed the surface of and Peg hadn't yet visited. Jeff’s 40 plus years in the travel industry shows. Beginning with the discovery call, he listened intently to what we wanted—Peg was seeking more of an Eat, Pray, Love journey, while at six months pregnant, I just wanted to eat. Jeff then wove in his expertise to create the ultimate relaxing getaway: landing in Singapore for a day, followed by a week in Indonesia at Bawah Reserve Private Island and Raffles Bali.

Upon arrival at Raffles Singapore, the iconic original Raffles property, the doorman greets us by name, takes our bags, and whisks us to our room where we complete check-in, barely allowing time to gawk at the crystal chandelier dripping above the lobby.

A breakfast of fruit, pastries and mee goreng (a wokfried noodle dish) is shortly followed by lunch at yì by Jereme Leung, where a jungle of white paper flowers and vines gives way to the on-property Chinese restaurant. The menu as thick as a book is a reflection of the chef’s passion. Praying we don’t spill on our white dresses, we share dim sum, a hundred-ring cucumber cut up and doused in soy sauce vinaigrette right before our eyes, deep-fried charcoal tofu, golden roasted duck, and rose ice cream steaming with dry ice for an exit as dramatic as the floral entrance.

You could easily spend a day exploring the property... and we do. The marble walkways gleam as if they have never been set foot on—deceiving as the hotel was the very first Raffles at 137 years old. Colonnades are lined with boutiques like Patek Philippe, Leica, and Macallan. We wander the gardens, which are as manicured as the

buildings, until it’s time for our spa appointments; I get a prenatal massage where the masseuse releases fluid retention from the 18 hour flight. Rejuvenated, we retreat to the rooftop pool to bask in the afternoon rays while admiring skyline views.

We primp for the evening in our floor-to-ceiling marble bathroom and head out for Singapore Slings at The Long Bar, the birthplace of the fruity yet strong cocktail. The bar floor is covered in peanut shells from sacks on the tables—a deviation from the famously tidy city. Pro tip: go early; by the time we leave, the line wraps around the building, almost to our dinner destination: Butcher’s Block.

A large glass case hung with every type of meat, fish and preserve welcomes us to the restaurant. We settle into a cozy chesterfield booth for a five course tasting menu— or dinner and a smoke show. To start, the whirl of a glass dome reveals a cloud of smoke and an artfully plated smoked sashimi poke. Preceding the duck course, the server presents us with the box where the meat has been cured, smoke billowing out.

The entire staff is kind and genuine, yet the sommelier takes it to another level. He is exceptionally engaging, when educating us about the wine and sake pairings, and when sharing his passion for wine and curiosity about California.

The meal concludes with wagyu and then a pumpkin tart with marshmallow ice cream, which ends up being both of our favorite dish...of the entire trip. We walk back to the room, in awe of how much we’ve done since our morning arrival, all on hotel grounds.

Our early check-out of Raffles Singapore is as swift and subtle as our arrival. We are handed a bag of breakfast pastries and fruit as we step into the car to begin our journey to Bawah Reserve. En route to the private island, a guide ushers us from the car ride to a ferry, through immigration, where we wait in the air-conditioned SUV and are brought our passports with visas, and eventually to a seaplane. We are so held we could have slept through the entire travel day and still made it. The ease is a testament to Bawah Reserve and Scott Dunn’s expertise. “We work behind the scenes to make everything seamless. It’s less stress for the client so they have the ability to apply more time to their environment and surroundings,” shares Jeff Robers, Scott Dunn Asia Travel Expert.

We eagerly board the seaplane with fellow guests, feeling as if we are embarking on a posh version of Lost, or at least White Lotus. We befriend a Portuguese couple taking a few days to relax before speaking at a conference in Singapore, and an Austrian woman in head-to-toe Dior and diamonds, carrying a Birkin that is not a starter Birkin, who is staying at Bawah with her husband for 16 days to do nothing.

I recall Jeff’s insight, “Bawah is a good place to start a trip, especially for couples with high profile jobs where it's alway go, go, go. Having five nights somewhere like that allows them to shift gears and once they’re ready to move on to other destinations they’re in a better mindset and can move on in appreciation of what they’re going to experience.”

We don’t see a spec of land for 80 minutes, then splash down to Bawah’s six island archipelago surrounded by nothing but clear water, solar panels, and 600 acres of marine reserve. The island is absolutely stunning— white sand segues into emerald jungle, with thatched roofs of the restaurant and villas peeking out from the foliage. Welcome drinks in hand, we walk the dock to the land. Parrot fish, reef sharks and bumper fish dart between the reefs below, gargantuan blue sea stars and neon clams nestled in the coral. With conservation, sustainability, thoughtfulness, and permaculture at its core, the island and surrounding lagoons are rich with life.

En route to our overwater bungalow we notice other guests gathered around a charming bicycle cart serving gelato outside the boutique. We follow suit, opting for a cone of both daily specials—chocolate and vegan white chocolate. Once in the room, we immediately slip on the provided caftans and head to lunch at The Boat House. We sway back and forth in wooden swinging chairs with our toes in the sand while sipping fresh coconuts and eating poke bowls. We return each day, our orders getting more adventurous. Later in the week we opt for shrimp curry pizza and a BLT—as in applewood smoked barracuda, lettuce, and tomato.

After lunch we walk (yes, the tide gets low enough) to one of Bawah’s other islands, Merba, meaning sea snail like its shape. When the daily rain shower arrives, we retreat to

our bungalow. Relaxing in the ample covered space on our deck allows us to be fully immersed in the tropical setting, yet dry. My sister falls asleep to the pitter patter of rain on the roof as I gaze longingly over my laptop screen at the overwater hammock in the distance.

The island feels so safe and isolated that we never lock our doors, yet it’s developed enough that there’s plenty to do—from diving to swimming to hiking. We go for a sunset cruise then return to The Beach House for a BBQ dinner (offered on Mondays and Fridays) followed by a screening of Grand Budapest Hotel on the beach in their Starlight Cinema.

In the morning we climb up past the centote-esque pool to Tree Tops, where breakfast and dinner are typically served. Our view of the lagoon is accented by butterflies flitting around. We share the shakshuka, matcha chia bowl, and pancakes with banana and whipped cream. A guest at the neighboring table leans over and discreetly asks if we know the tipping policy in Indonesia. I show them the Scott Dunn PDF detailing useful phrases, traditions, rules, and, of course, tipping guidelines. They ask where I got it and joke their travel agent wasn’t nearly as thorough.

We set off for a day of tours—first Elang Island. Available by buyout for up to 14 people, the private island within a private island is sprinkled with residences as aesthetic as the views and its own tennis court, pool (with a water slide I had to test out), and spa. The essentials, really. Back on the main island we join the permaculture tour of the gardens. The fragrance of herbs and spices fills the air as we learn about Bawah’s hydroponic gardens, beehives and sustainability practices.

Then, the activity we’ve been waiting for: our daily mandatory (well, included) treatment at Aura Spa. We cross the treetop bridge to a dimension of relaxation. The staff are genuinely friendly and courteous and seem to enjoy being there even more than we do...difficult to comprehend given we’re the ones getting daily treatments. Peg says it’s the best massage she’s ever had and I have to agree. Zened out, giddy at the prospect of repeating this daily, we sip our tea and eat oatmeal cookies on a daybed in the relaxation lounge, musing that our Austrian friend gets 16 massages in a row.

“With conservation, sustainability, thoughtfulness, and permaculture at its core, the island and surrounding lagoons are rich with life.”

BAWAH RESERVE

RAFFLES BALI

You don’t see any brands around the spa, or island in general, except one, which they constitute as perfectly aligned—Maison 21G, a perfumery named for the weight of one’s soul: 21 grams. Owner Johanna Monange lives in Singapore and, after working for major perfume houses, founded the atelier dedicated to how perfume was once made—specific to the person, not for the masses.

To begin the immersive scent bar experience, we are led through a masterclass on perfume. We then take a personality quiz to narrow the 24 fragrances down to eight. My free spirit results and Peg’s social enthusiast classification are on point. From there, blind smell tests reduce our scents to three—a top, bottom, and middle note to create our signature fragrances. It’s fun, educational and interactive. We walk away with a day and a night perfume—to remind us of our trip...and that no else will have.

We spend the afternoon sunbathing on our deck, watching stingrays from the daybeds. Doing nothing feels just right. Looking out to the other islands, the light is hazy, as if a vintage filter was placed on everything, or perhaps reflective of feeling like we’ve stepped back in time to when things were slower paced.

The next morning, the ding of chimes lets us know our final massages are over and the seaplane is landing soon to whisk us to our next destination—Bali. Upon midnight arrival at Ngurah Rai Airport, a Raffles representative meets us and leads us through customs, to a car stocked with snacks and a flask—a necessity after Bali immigration.

We wake to our spacious pool villa overlooking the bay and head straight to breakfast. At Rumari restaurant we’re greeted by name and informed that portions are small so order as much as you want. The table soon fills with chia pudding, crepes, a lobster omelet, green juice, pastries, tropical fruit, and oatmeal decorated with brûléed bananas, cashews and flowers. The almost-too-pretty-toeat dishes disappear as quickly as they arrive. En route back to our room, signs for The Secret Cave pique our interest, yet we can’t seem to find it. I start to assume it truly is a secret until I ask an ever-friendly staff member

to show us. Draped in vines, it’s still partially set up from a candlelit dinner the night before—a level of dreaminess I can only imagine.

We check in at the spa for our massages and are led to the outdoor sanctuary in a verdant valley. As if on queue, rain pours down as we settle into the treatment tables. I have yet to experience anything more tranquil than the lullaby of rain on the roof as the masseuse dissolves my knots.

Our butler collects us from the massage and takes us to Loloan Beach Bar and Grill. Just beyond the adjacent pool, lush overgrown rainforest meets the beach. A leisurely lunch of spring rolls, grilled red snapper and rosella iced tea—a flower known to decrease blood viscosity, and we’re ready to continue the relaxation. Returning to our room, I notice a bowl of granadillas on the table. I nearly leap to them, ecstatic that the staff picked up on my passing comment at breakfast about how much I love the fruit. With all I could ever wish for surrounding me, we lounge on the poolside bed listening to birdsong until the sky turns neon pink.

We return to Rumari for a candlelit dinner—a seven course culinary journey that leads us from West to Central Indonesia. The atmosphere is dark and moody, overlooking the city lights across Jimbaran Bay. Our menus are personalized by name and eighty percent of the ingredients are locally sourced. Each course is a lesson in Indonesian language and spices, from the amuse bouche to the petit fours.

On our final day, we order room service by our pool, simply enjoying the beauty and peace of Bali, secluded from the traffic and wellness gurus with Instagram followings. As Jeff explained to us, Raffles Bali is near Jimbaran yet has a garden setting so it’s quite tranquil— the best of both worlds. I take in the idyllic view while devouring a salad bursting with produce from the hotel’s garden, minutes before our butler is due to collect us for the airport transfer. Fargo definitely doesn’t have any of this. After experiencing the magic of Indonesia and Scott Dunn’s expertise, it’ll be hard to return to blindly picking a place on the map.*

“We

sway back and forth in wooden swinging chairs with our toes in the sand while sipping fresh coconuts and eating poke bowls.”

SCOTT DUNN

Truly savoring a trip means entrusting the logistics to someone else, allowing you to focus on creating memories with loved ones and exploring new places, without the stress of booking tickets or second-guessing restaurant choices. Since 1986, San Diego-based Scott Dunn has been crafting private luxury trips. Their team excels in planning everything from quick getaways to extended stays—something they note more travelers are seeking. By staying in tune with suppliers and visiting the destinations they specialize in yearly, the staff possess a deep understanding of each location. From the initial discovery call to the delivery of the comprehensive final itinerary through their app, they create seamless journeys tailored to your every desire. scottdunn.com

A SCOTTISH adventure

A LESSON IN SCOTTISH HISTORY AND WILDERNESS SURVIVAL AT FIFE ARMS

BY Ottocina Ryan

Prior to visiting Scotland, I imagined endless rolling hills dotted with sheep and castles. Now, Scotland conjures memories of tartan and whiskey, haggis, ducks, the most intricate hotel I’ve ever stayed at, taxidermy, and voluntarily spending a freezing day learning how to survive in the wilderness.

On a crisp and sunny fall morning, my boyfriend and I land at Edinburgh Airport. Throughout the two-hour drive to Braemar, storybook towns with stone houses covered in vines, pastures of fluffy sheep, and the world's tallest hedge, blur past the Land Rover windows, as if we’re traveling back in time.

We arrive at Fife Arms, a former hunting lodge reimagined as a maximalist homage to Scotland. While waiting for our suite, we take tea in the drawing room, nestled in a plush couch beneath Picasso’s rendition of his mistress—one of the hundreds of prestigious works adorning the hotel. The sun shines through the bay windows, illuminating the green tartan walls and wildflower arrangements that mirror the colors of the agate-painted ceiling.

Every corner holds a new surprise as we climb the stairs to our room. Taxidermy, books, art…I want to stop and inspect everything, but at that pace, we’d reach our room at midnight…on the day of checkout. The hallways are an exciting and refreshing deviation from the all-toofamiliar marble and white decor. I don’t think there’s a blank wall in the building—it’s a treasure trove of artifacts and every piece is intriguing. Minimalism? They don’t know her.

From animal skeletons to notable art, to Queen Victoria’s stockings (framed, of course)—the decor is playful, historic, and exudes Scottish history. It feels like a museum. Our room is no different, and you can tell every detail is intentional, as if the designers themselves lived in the room, slowly fine-tuning every aspect over time.

When the hunger pangs kick in, we head downstairs for lunch at The Flying Stag—an upscale pub named after the hotel’s coat of arms. Portraits of locals hang on the wall, and a life-size stag with wings majestically flies above the bar. My boyfriend has to explain half the menu to me. Notably, haggis (organ sausage) and black pudding (blood sausage), which I decide I don’t want to be any more familiar with. A couple of lines below, pork sausage with mustard mash, and a sticky toffee pudding surrounded by a moat of caramel sauce catch my eye it’s just the comfort food I’m craving on a chilly afternoon.

Contrasting the overstimulating interior, once we step outside the hotel walls, everything is simple—tranquility abounds. We stroll through town, along the Clunie River, the slightly sweet fragrance of freshly mowed grass mingles with crisp air. We pass by a church, walking around neighborhoods of quaint cottages with flourishing gardens and sheep. I stop to watch bunnies chase each other in a field. En route to the golf course, we happen across a flock of 40-something ducks. As if out of a movie, an old man in a plaid shirt emerges from his picket fence to feed them. Everyone we pass by greets us with a smile. It’s a sleepy town. We enjoy it, leaning into the slower pace.

That evening, Fife Arms arranges a car to Fish Shop, their intimate sister restaurant in Ballater, the next town over. When we say we over ordered, the manager assures us with an infectious laugh that there’s no such thing. The table shortly fills with hearty portions of halibut on a bed of foraged mushrooms and coco beans, lobster pasta, deviled eggs, oysters, and crab crumpets. We agree it’s the best pasta we’ve ever had; finishing the meal with an apple tart tatin topped with lazily melting crème fraiche ice cream.

The following afternoon’s much anticipated 4 p.m. art tour gives meaning to the decor. Not surprisingly, we learn the hotel owners Manuela and Iwan Wirth’s mantra is that art is meant to be enjoyed freely by everyone. Our cheerful guide leads us through the lobby and restaurants—explaining the murals, sculptures, and framed pieces—all connected to Scottish heritage in one way or another. When we get to the wall of death (their words not mine), clad with dozens of antique taxidermy busts of various animals, as if on queue, a couple stalkers carrying antlers walk through the door, just back from a hunt. As it’s 5 o’clock here, the tour concludes in Bertie’s Bar—where there’s no actual bar amongst the deep red velvet chairs, just 458 bottles of whiskey lining the mirrored walls.

The man cave is equipped with bartenders eager to create a cocktail, offer a tasting, or share anything and everything there is to know about whiskey.

I find myself more suited for Elsa’s—Fife Arms’ hotel bar named after designer and artist Elsa Schiaparelli, a close friend and rival of Coco Chanel, who frequented Braemar. The intimate space is decorated with an antique disco ball, and shocking pink—a color coined by Elsa herself—florals, neon signs, and of course drinks to match. Paying homage to the vibrant hue, the Shocking Pink is served in a champagne flute and Birds In A Cage is a rosy concoction of gin, pink lady apple, and chamomile.

Glasses empty, we slip next door to The Clunie Dining Room, the fine dining and breakfast restaurant. A flickering taper, flowers and a worldly wine list adorn our table, setting a romantic, elevated scene. Cozy in the half moon booth, I have cod with mussels and truffle topped mashed potatoes, followed by blackberry cheesecake and sticky toffee pudding— we can’t get enough of the local favorite. We return the next morning for a breakfast of poached egg and creamy mushrooms atop sourdough before heading out for a day of what can only be explained as survival

THE FIFE ARMS BEDROOM

QUEEN VICTORIA BATHROOM, ROYAL SUITE

THE ARTIST'S STUDIO

BERTIE'S BAR

Zeki of Highland Survival (highlandsurvivalskills.com) collects us from the lobby. Young and rugged, with a beaver tooth necklace and dirt-covered everything, he’s the real deal. On the drive to the spruce forest, which he grew up next to in Cairngorms National Park, he tells us about his week-long courses during which participants learn to hunt, prepare and cook meat, make haggis from the organs, and tan the hide with pigment from the boiled hooves. And, it gets better; he gradually takes things away from them during the week, making their newfound skills (i.e. building shelter) a necessity.

Luckily, we are not doing that today. When we arrive at the mossy forest, the teepee dwelling has a fresh venison leg already hanging inside, ready for us to cook. We forage for Scottish thyme, wild garlic, sorrel, and nettle, which Zeki explains is more nutritious than spinach. With his guidance and knowledge, we fill our pockets with greens and roots for lunch. Zeki points out and explains both poisonous and magic mushrooms, which we leave behind.

We gather kindling and whack reeds to weave a mat for covering the smoldering fire and venison leg. Next, it’s time to build a fire for warmth. We start with lighting a match in the wind, and my daily practice of lighting Diptyque candles has somehow escaped me, and I can’t light a single match. Without graduating level one, we progress to starting a fire with flint and metal, followed by wood friction. Where there’s a spark, there’s not always flame, and Zeki and my boyfriend end up doing the work from there on out to cook our venison, mushroom, and nettle wraps. I certainly learned a lot— the main thing being that I would probably freeze to death if I were stranded in the forest...

The next morning, we depart Scotland armed with new skills. And though they are more likely to serve as a fun cocktail party story to enthrall the most discerning world travelers, you never know what life can throw your way—and when proper foraging could come in handy. Needless to say, it was exciting to get out beyond the quaint Braemar streets and experience another facet of the Scottish countryside. We certainly walked away with a deeper connection to, appreciation for, and understanding of nature and history—what better place to gather that than in the Scottish Highlands?*

THE DRAWING ROOM

DAY 1 48 HOURS

STAY

Hideaway in the Santa Barbara hills at El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel. With sprawling views of the coast and a step away from the bustle of downtown, tranquility is best found amongst their Spanish revival cottages. Days at the pool, artisanal picnics by the lily pond, and al fresco movie nights...

@belmondelencanto

DAY 2

SURF

Wake up not just on the water, but in it. Santa Barbara Surf School’s team of experienced instructors are senseis of the seas. You’ll be surfing like Kelly Slater in no time.

@sbsurfschool

BRUNCH

Refuel from your wave riding with Convivo’s ‘Nomad Italian’ brunch. A menu complete with a Chorizo and Egg Scramble Piadina, Za’atar Flatbread, and Lemon Ricotta Cappellacci is the answer to all your “Where should we eat?” questions. @convivosb

BY Laura Hupp

MOVE

Roam the 628-acre estate of Alma Rosa Winery and Vineyards on May 18th for their annual Peace of Mind Walk. Passionate about combating depression, anxiety, and mental health issues, the winery donates all funds raised during those roughly 10,000 steps to these causes. There may be some wine along the way, too. @almarosawinery

LUNCH

The LA favorite Wexler’s Deli has ventured north. The new Santa Barbara Public Market location shares the same sentiments

ART

In a constantly developing tech world, the arts have had to welcome some new mediums. The Santa Barbara Museum of Art’s Made by Hand/Born Digital exhibition is the convergence of AI, paint, 3D printers, scissors, Photoshop, and everything in between. @sbmuseart

in Santa Barbara

as its City of Angels counterpart: tradition, craftsmanship, and quality. All three can be found in their handcrafted pastrami and smoked salmon sandwiches. @wexlersdeli

SHOP

It’s swimsuit season. Ojai’s Kariella is a haven for bathing suit shoppers with brands like Montce, Agua Bendita, Bond Eye, and Monica Hansen all in one place. Complete your beachfit with an Aratta Kimono or Vitamin A linen button up.

@shopkariella

DINNER

From start, a San Diego Ahi Crudo, to finish, Santa Barbara “Hope Ranch” Mussels, The Lark stays true to its coastal roots with a locally sourced and seasonally inspired dining experience. Located in the heart of the Funk Zone, the restaurant’s energy and environment are equally as wonderful as the food.

@thelarksb

SHOP

Westward General is a hidden gem of homegoods, vintage clothing, and apothecary. Coastal California meets western charm making it the perfect place to pick up a souvenir for someone or yourself.

@westwardgeneral

DINNER

Milk & Honey is the epitome of small plates, big flavor. Bacon-wrapped dates, pasilla chile tacos, and grilled sirloin sliders? Thankfully, this dinner spot is tapas style because you’ll want to try a little bit of everything.

@milknhoneytapas

NIGHTCAP

A Passion Fruit Mule and Cacao Negroni add a twist to your favorite evening sip. Test Pilot’s exotic cocktails, dim lighting, and tiki-inspired decor will turn your evening into a tropical trance.

@testpilotbar

ALMA ROSA WINERY

SBMA

S# 1 R E S O R T H O T E L I N

Discover Santa Barbara’s legendary hideaway and most romantic Forbes Five Star resort, in the lush hillsides of Montecito overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy ultimate privacy with vine-covered cottages that are tucked behind individual gates and offer individual outdoor showers with private oversized sunken spas all surrounded by incredibly landscaped gardens across 550 acres. Guests can enjoy complimentary caviar and tableside flambé as part of the all-inclusive dining experiences, without additional resort or parking fees. The resort’s restaurants showcase local bounty, much of it grown on-site The Stonehouse, awarded Wine Spectator’s highest honor, the Grand Award, boasts an outdoor terrace overlooking the ocean with an award-winning menu and wine list. Learn more at SanYsidroRanch.com.