Sophisticated Living Indianapolis March/April 2024

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slmag.net Mar/Apr 2024 five dollars
{Indianapolis’ Finest}

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SOPHISTICATED CELEBRATIONS

BODNER-SMITH WEDDING

Brooke Bodner, of Carmel, and Adam Smith, of Zionsville, were married on August 12, 2023 at the Lucas Estate. Brooke is the senior director of brand management at Live Nation Entertainment, and Adam is an energy manager at Clearway Energy Group. Their parents are Kelly and Steve Bodner and Sandy Smith. The wedding ceremony

took place in the estate’s beautiful gardens, and was followed by dinner under a tent and dancing to the Living Proof band. The 350 guests also enjoyed a cigar bar and late-night taco buffet, and there was an artist on hand, who painted the couple’s first dance as it happened. The couple now resides in Indianapolis. sl

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ELLIOT-RAVENTOS ENGAGEMENT

Raegan Elliot and Jackson Raventos, both of Martinsville, became engaged on November 18, 2023, in downtown Indianapolis. Their parents are Carmen and Randy Elliot and Stephanie and Mike Clephane. Jackson blindfolded Raegan and told her he was taking her to a surprise dinner, but instead, brought her to her sister’s photography studio, where he proposed with a beautiful marquise diamond ring from Reis-

Nichols Jewelers. “I’ve always wanted a gold marquise-shape ring, because that’s the kind my mother has,” says Raegan. “I chose the original ring, but then Jackson added a halo of baguette diamonds underneath that just perfected it.” The couple are high school sweethearts and live in Bloomington, where Raegan is a nanny and Jackson is in sales for Peterman Brothers. They will be married on August 3, 2024. sl

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MCNAMARA-SHOLTIS WEDDING

Megan McNamara and Brandon Sholtis, both of Evansville, were married on September 23, 2023, at the Bottleworks Hotel. Megan is a merchandise planner for BaubleBar, an online jewelry company, and Brandon is a vice president at JP Morgan Private Bank. Their parents are Karen and Ken McNamara and Suzanne and Tim Sholtis. Megan says that one of the most delightful and surprising things during their ceremony was when the officiant shared testimonies about the couple’s love from their friends and

family. Adds Megan, “We know what our love means to the two of us, but we were blown away by how our love is perceived.” There was also a surprise “guest”, of sorts, at the wedding. As Megan and her father were about to walk down the aisle, the musician Dave Matthews, who was performing that night and was staying at the hotel, appeared in the hallway. He quickly congratulated Megan and wished her a beautiful day. The couple reside in the Fountain Square neighborhood. sl

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CASEY-JOLLY ENGAGEMENT

Claire Casey and Luke Jolly, both of Fishers, were engaged at the Resort at Longboat Key Club in Longboat Key, Florida, on December 28, 2023. After proposing to Claire on the beach, Luke had arranged a surprise cocktail party with their families, parents Terri and Scott Casey and Carol and Tom Jolly. Claire works as an administrative assistant at Thompson Thrift Commercial Development and Luke is a law student at Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law; the couple met while undergraduate students at IU, though they attended the same high school. They currently reside in downtown Indianapolis. sl

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SHUTT-MIDDLETON ENGAGEMENT

Mollie Shutt, of Fort Wayne, and James Middleton, of New Castle, were engaged on May 20, 2023, during a gondola ride down the Indianapolis Canal. Their parents are Mary and Andrew Shutt and Celia and Mark Middleton. James surprised Mollie with champagne, chocolate, and a stunning asymmetrical engagement ring from Reis-

Nichols Jewelers (while looking at rings, Mollie had expressed the desire for something “a bit unusual”). The couple reside in Fort Wayne, where Mollie is an advertising account executive and content creator and James is an operations manager for an online retailer. Their wedding will take place on June 8, 2024. sl

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KEEKER-BENNETT WEDDING

Sarah Keeker, of Zionsville, and Nate Bennett, of Muncie, were married on August 5, 2023, at a private residence on Lake Wawasee. They both work in the special events/wedding industry, Nate as owner of an audio-visual company, NBE Event Group, and Sarah as a wedding planner at Plum & Poppy. A stint serving together on

a professional committee led to a decade-long friendship, which eventually turned into love. However, after years of planning events for others, the last thing they wanted was a big wedding, so their ceremony and reception was purposefully intimate, attended by only 60 guests. They currently reside in Zionsville. sl

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Mar/Apr 2024

is a company that celebrates aging and wants us to look good while we’re doing it, with a huge collection of cool reading glasses and eyeglasses that enhance, rather than obscure, our style. The frame shown here is Miklos, in the color La Paz. Miklos is a bold frame, meant to make a statement, and looks good on both men and women. It comes in 10 colors. To try on virtually, or for more information, visit caddislife.com. Photographed by Heidi Zumbrum

on the cover:

Photographed by Jessica Strickland 8

Newlyweds Brooke (Bodner) and Adam Smith at their wedding, held at the Lucas Estate. For more details, see Sophisticated Celebrations.

8 Sophisticated Celebrations

30 From the Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

33 Eternal Spring

38 Wine on the Fly

40 Catch A Wave

42 Bibliotaph…

44 Peach Fuzz

48

Storming the Castle

54 For the Birds

56 Old Dog, New Tricks

58 Minimal to the Max

69 EMBRACING THE BEAUTY OF SPRING

76 Commission Row

94 Puttin’ on the Ritz–Times Two

slmag.net Mar/Apr 2024 five dollars {Indianapolis’ Finest}
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When you’re a company that makes reading glasses and your customer service email address is helpivefallenandicantgetup@caddislife.com, it’s obvious that you have an irreverent view of aging. Caddis Eye Appliances calls itself the anti-antiaging company and believes that reading glasses are a fashion statement. Shown here is Wabi Sabi, a square frame ideal for round-, heart- and ovalshaped faces, in the shade Sweetgrass. It’s available in three other colors as well. For more information, visit caddislife.com. Photographed by Heidi Zumbrum

116 Sophisticated Society

118 Discovering Broadway

120 Christmas in the Kitchen

122 Nancy Noel Documentary

124 Meals on Wheels Bingo Bash

126 Indiana Ballet Conservatory

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I’m feeling nostalgic about spring break this year, because for the first time in many years, we’re not all going on a trip as a family. With our older child in college and the younger in high school, their breaks don’t line up anymore (and this year, our daughter is heading on a trip with friends, a first, and will only be home for two days). Although I know that change is inevitable, it’s hitting me hard that we won’t be setting off on an adventure as a family, and that very likely, our spring break days with the kids are over.

My wife and I have always been passionate about seeing the world and showing it to our children, and I’m lucky to be able to travel as part of my job for this magazine. Over the years, we’ve had some amazing family vacations–cruises along the Danube, a sailing trip in Italy, visits to luxe island resorts, and of course, several trips to Paris, our favorite destination, but surprisingly, it’s our trips to south Florida when the kids were little that I’m feeling sentimental about.

Back when the kids were young and our budget was limited, we used to drive to Florida for spring break. We’d pack the car to the brim and hit the road, stopping every so often to get gas and use the facilities (as my wife told the kids “whether you think you have to or not”). My wife, who was prone to getting car sick on long road trips, was the driver, and I’d sit part of the time up front with her, and part of the time in the back with the kids, watching movies. A highlight for our children was the dizzying array of junk food available at the gas stations; we’d let them choose one snack each (of course, things never found in our pantry at home), and, the piece de resistance, a lottery ticket. At the end of the day, we’d stop at the best hotel we could afford, a Hilton Garden Inn (not even an “& Suites”) just over the line in Florida. After a long day of driving, there was nothing better than pulling up to that hotel, knowing an outdoor pool (tiny though it was) and a room with two queen beds awaited us.

In the years since, we’ve been fortunate enough to stay in dozens of luxurious hotel suites, but I still remember the fun we had back then, all of us in one room. The children (and my wife) would happily order their “kid food” favorites from room service, while I made sure to include a bottle of wine for my wife and me. I remember one visit, the kids’ minds were blown when they realized that it was possible to order room service AT THE POOL. You haven’t really lived unless you’ve stuffed french fries in your mouth while partially submerged in water.

These days, we still love to visit south Florida, but we fly there. This past winter, we missed our connecting flight due to bad weather and ended up stuck in a Comfort Inn somewhere in Michigan while we waited for a flight to open up. (A funny side note: one of the many airline employees hoping to also get home that day told me they refer to passengers like us as “HKs”, or “Hope Killers”, because we would get priority over crew.) All of us in one room, just like the old days. Despite the fact that they’ve certainly gotten used to more upscale travel, our kids enjoyed it. (A highlight was the free buffet breakfast with its machine that automatically dispensed waffle batter–it’s comforting to know that my children are still easily impressed.) It all reminded us of those road trips and simpler times, and the kids even suggested we drive to Florida again sometime and stay at that same Hilton. And though I know we won’t do it, it makes me happy to think that they look back and cherish those memories too.

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ETERNAL SPRING

The debut of La Fantaisie last summer in Paris' 9th arrondissement has created more buzz than a beehive.

I knew from social media clatter that travel influencers were agog about La Fantaisie (lafantaisie.com), which opened in Paris this past summer. Still, after walking from Gare Du Nord in a steady drizzle with luggage in tow, I was surprised to see a bevy of gendarmes stationed at the start of Rue Cadet, a few yards from the hotel's front door in the bustling Faubourg-Montmartre neighborhood. Following an awkward interaction that reminded me (once again) that I must acquire a basic level of conversational French, I learned that the crowd control wasn't for the hotel but rather security for French President Macron, who was attending an event next door.

No staff were stationed outside the hotel, but this slight was absolved as soon as I stepped inside this maximalist's dream. I

imagined that this would be the result if Wes Anderson and Iris Apfel collaborated on a hotel. The lobby and its cozy lounge, covered floor-to-ceiling in color and pattern, was slightly retro, very funky, and totally unique. I was instantly smitten.

And, as if I needed a reminder that this property was a complete departure from the rarefied air (some would say stuffiness) found in the upper echelons of Parisian hotels, the reception staff, whose ages appeared to bridge the era where Millennials end and Gen Z begins, boasted casual uniforms, a more 21st-century letme-know-what-you-need attitude, and spoke perfect English. Adding to the "cool kids" vibe was a fantastic playlist and a sprinkling of artfully dressed modelesque locals tucked into the lounge's corner banquettes conversing over an aperitif.

Yacht Club exterior
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The salon serves as the hotel’s living room. The salon serves as an extension of Le Café.
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Martin Brudnizki
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The greenhouse-like interior of Golden Poppy Bar Sur Le Toit The garden outside Golden Poppy Golden Poppy
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Golden Poppy’s ikejmecaught fish with parsnip milk and “Leche de Tigre,” a spicy citrus marinade.

Rue Cadet draws its name from 16th-century gardeners, brothers Jacques and Jean, who owned the Clos Cadet and supplied the royal court with fruit and vegetables. At La Fantaisie, Swedish-born and London-based designer Martin Brudnizki pays homage to this history, with interiors given over to a rainbow of botanical motifs, a charming and unexpected "secret" garden in its "backyard," and a rooftop bar with a lushly landscaped terrace.

I enjoyed the sweet sound of bird song piped into the elevator—clad in green grasscloth wallpaper and antiqued mirrors— as I rode up to my room. The door slid open to reveal more color-on-pattern-on-texture, with bright green trim surrounding Fornasetti's iconic Chiavi Segrete wallpaper, in which dense foliage conceals golden skeleton keys. The color of each guestroom door evoked a sunshiny day.

Brudnizki, whose dossier includes the new Vesper Bar at The Dorchester in London and The Britely at Pendry West Hollywood in LA, certainly has a flair for the theatric, providing an Alice-InWonderland-worthy psychedelic dreamscape inside and out of La Fantaisie's 63 rooms and 10 suites. While the design of guestrooms is slightly less exuberant than that of its public spaces, there is no shortage of whimsy.

Mirroring the star power of its design, culinary luminary Dominique Crenn oversees Golden Poppy, La Fantaisie's flagship restaurant, which is a destination in its own right. French-born

Crenn, who has worked in the US since the 1980s and holds the distinction of becoming the first – and only – female chef to be awarded three Michelin stars in the States, has seized on her homecoming with great aplomb, creating a fine dining experience with a zero plastic and zero waste philosophy. Golden Poppy's interiors—a glass-roofed main dining room reminiscent of an antique greenhouse that offers direct access to a large walled garden—are apropos for Crenn's vegetable- and fish-forward menu, which brings a touch of California's multicultural cuisine, and a subtle spiciness that's hard to find in many Parisian fine dining experiences. I could have eaten a dozen of her mushroom tarts, but I was glad I didn't, so I had room to enjoy spicy fried rice noodles with seaweed wakame butter and smoked trout roe.

For its subterranean spa, La Fantaisie partnered with French brand Holidermie, which employs a unique, naturally vegan approach in its quest to offer effective, simple, and radiant beauty products.

Normally a 7th arrondissement gal when I am lucky enough to be visiting Paris, I appreciated the cute pocket-sized guide to the neighborhood left on my nightstand, which allowed my wandering to be a bit more purpose-driven than usual. La Fantaisie is located in a charming part of the city, full of intriguing passageways, magnificent architecture, and À la Mère de Famille, the oldest chocolatier in Paris. C'est si bon! sl

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Chef Dominique Crenn surrounded by her culinary team.

WINE ON THE FLY

A new wine subscription service aims to create adventurous oenophiles through education and exclusive partnerships.

In 2020, while participating in a socially distanced wine tasting with a friend, Stephanie Franklin began tasting through bottles of her kit and thought, "Yikes, this is not good." As Franklin put down her glass, a question arose in her head: "Why can't I make a better version of this?" she thought. Feeling stagnant in her career, Franklin used the global pause provided by the pandemic to perform research, investigate the wine industry, and ponder her next move. Another attribute in her arsenal included the time she'd spent living in Europe, where she got to experience Old World wine culture firsthand. As a bonus, one of the first friends she made when moving to the Bay Area, Guiliano Manno, was a practicing sommelier and served as a sounding board for her ideas.

After her mother's sudden death in the same year, Franklin wanted to eliminate any "would've, could've, should've" in her life and finally lead a life of her own design rather than what others expected her to be. Leaving behind a lengthy career in technology, Franklin realized she could meld her prior experience and knowledge with her love of wine by creating a wine subscription service aimed at shaking up the market.

Franklin launched FlyWines (flywines.club) in late 2023. Aiming to be more than just a wine seller, Franklin is passionate about bringing undiscovered and underrepresented wine regions to the US market. To make this happen, Franklin traveled the world, visiting winemakers in person to discover wines missing from store shelves and create a connection with these wineries and winemakers that goes above just being a business partnership. As a Black woman in an industry historically dominated by men, she feels it's essential to have a diverse portfolio and tell stories that show the vastness of the wine industry and the passion that goes into those 750ml bottles sent to customers' doors.

Riding the learning curve in establishing her business has been eased somewhat by technology. However, Franklin emphasized that the time-honored tradition of building one-onone relationships is just as important as it was 50 years ago. For Franklin, most of the wineries she works with are generations in the making, and she wants to tell their stories with every pour. Through exclusive partnerships with winemakers in Turkey, Northern Italy, California, and soon Portugal, Georgia, Greece, and Morocco, Franklin has made significant inroads

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in introducing these wines to an entirely new audience that wouldn't have been possible without her advocacy.

Franklin said one thing that differentiates FlyWines from other subscription services, outside of having access to their oneof-a-kind portfolio, is the option to sample before committing to a full order. You can refine your palette preferences while tasting through a four-bottle sample to successfully curate future purchases. Franklin's current model is two bottles a month, as she found other subscription services were overwhelming customers with too many bottles. However, depending on customer demands, her subscription boxes will eventually be expanded to four or six bottles a month.

Following a surge in wine sales during the pandemic, an inevitable correction has seen wine consumption decline in recent years, with a two-to-four percent drop in overall wine volume sales in 2023. The wine industry has the daunting task of capturing the attention and loyalty of an audience with so much to choose from and limited wine knowledge. Despite these challenges, the premium wine segment represents a bright spot as customers buy less but are willing to pay more for a high-quality bottle. Franklin's wine selections frequently fall into the high-end category and are intended for

consumers willing to spend more on experience and quality. Franklin singled out one of her selections, a Mosole Tai that she compared to a buttery chardonnay, which kept customers clamoring for more.

Franklin wants to contribute to a wine renaissance through various means of education. FlyWines will soon launch virtual tasting sessions for subscribers, allowing consumers to fully understand their palette and the wine they're tasting. Franklin says she wants "everyone to become their own sommelier" and get excited about expanding their wine knowledge. She is also investigating group events, such as corporate retreats with wine kits, to further her pursuit of wine education and expose customers to overlooked wonders of the wine world.

For many, wine tasting can seem daunting, with people seeing it as a test with hard and fast rules and right and wrong answers. Fearing a poor grade can make people afraid to switch lanes and veer away from what they know. FlyWines wants to be an option for people looking to be more adventurous from the comfort of their homes. Looking to the future, Franklin hopes her leap of faith into the world of wine will inspire others to take theirs with FlyWines and allow themselves to discover the joy of being a curious oenophile. sl

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FlyWines founder Stephanie Franklin

CATCH A WAVE

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through Reis-Nichols

Available

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This page, clockwise from top left: Nouvel Heritage Island Hop Medallion ($6,200). Available through Reis-Nichols in Indianapolis and nouvelheritage.com. Mason & Brooks Ribbon Wrap bangle ($12,900; masonandbrooks.com). Yvonne Leon Fil La Plage bracelet ($320; yvonneleon.com). MACADAM Explore bracelet ($13,750; voilamacadam.com). Twilight Dawn ruby earrings from Stenzhorn ($41,691; stenzhorn.com). Mikimoto Japanese Sense of Beauty wave earrings ($37,000.00) Available Jewelers in Indianapolis, Diamond Cellar in Nashville, and mikimotoamerica.com. YSSO bronze The Shore earrings ($320; theysso.com). White Space Sené ring ($3,800; whitespacejewelry.com). Boochier light blue Fruit Hoops diamond bangle ($10,300; boochier.com). Simon G men’s wedding band ($2,420). Available through Richter & Phiilips Co. in Cincinnati, Gensis Diamonds in Nashville and simongjewelry.com. David Yurman Waves Band Ring ($2,600). through Moyer Fine Jewelers and Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, Davis Jewelers in Louisville, Clarkson Jewelers in St. Louis and davidyurman.com. Suzanne Kalan golden midi wave diamond eternity band ($4,200; suzannekalan.com). Opposite page, clockwise from top left: Ritique Serenity wave ring ($1,090; ritique.com). Modern Moghul Zulf bracelet ($9,000; modernmoghul.com). Kwiat Wave Collection ring with diamonds ($2,490). Available through Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, Diamond Cellar in Nashville, Elleard Heffern Fine Jewelers in St. Louis, and kwiat.com. Apples & Figs mermaid and pearl earrings (applesandfigs.com). Chris Ploof Mokume Gane ZigZag ring ($4,750; chrisploof.com).

Ariella Chezar, an instructor and artistic director at FlowerSchool New York, shares how to harness the inherent drama of nature and alter a room’s energy through her artful floral arrangements.

Available March 5. Ariella Chezar with Julie Michaels—Home in Bloom: Lessons for Creating Floral Beauty in Every Room— hardcover, 256 pages, Ten Speed Press

In her first book, iconic multihyphenate Barbra Streisand reveals another aspect of her vast skillset by sharing a deeply personal look into the creation and construction of her newest residence, a “dream refuge” she’s pined for since the days when she shared a small Brooklyn apartment with her mother, brother, and grandparents. Barbra Streisand—My Passion for Design—hardcover, 288 pages, Viking Press

A peek inside 12 unique abodes, many never before published, home to artists, designers, photographers, musicians, and more, with a shared theme of creatively decorating. Available March 12. Anna Malmberg (photographer), Mari Strenghielm (stylist)—Creative Homes: Evocative, Eclectic & Carefully Curated Interiors—paper over board, 208 pages, Ryland, Peters & Small

When it came to the interior design of his homes, the late and legendary Karl Lagerfeld was as exacting and opinionated as he was renowned for when it came to both his personal appearance and prowess as a fashion designer. The included homes are documented by date, beginning in the 1960s through his final home purchase in 2009. Patrick Mauriès, Marie Kalt—Karl Lagerfeld: A Life in Houses— hardcover, 240 pages, image courtesy of Thames and Hudson.

A beautifully illustrated survey of the awardwinning Sydney-based design practice Arent & Pyke founded in 2007 encompassing interior architecture and design with a unique focus on decorative arts. Available March 9. Juliette Arent & Sarah-Jane Pyke— Arent & Pyke: Interiors beyond the primary palette—hardcover, 304 pages, image courtesy of Thames and Hudson.

Bibliotaph...
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bib 'li' o 'taph, [bib-lee-uhtaf, -tahf]: a person who caches or hoards books

A complete and official retrospective of celebrated fashion designer Jil Sander, beginning in the 1960s, created in collaboration with leading book designer Irma Boom and Sander. Available March 25. Irma Boom (design) & Ingeborg Harms (text)—Jil Sander By Jil Sander—hardcover, 320 pages, Prestel

Certified nutritionists Tamara Green and Sarah Grossman provide information and recipes to help you boost your mood through food. Available March 26. Tamara Green & Sarah Grossman—Good Food, Good Mood: 100 Nourishing Recipes to Support Mind and Body Wellness— hardcover, 248 pages, Appetite by Random House

Home gardener, baker, entrepreneur, and awardwinning cookbook author Rosie Daykin shares how she designed and nurtured her Vancouver garden and recipes highlighting freshly harvested produce. Available April 9. Rosie Daykin—The Side Gardener: Recipes & Notes from My Garden—hardcover, 288 pages, Appetite by Random House

Supermodel, philanthropist, and wellness advocate Gisele Bündchen shares 100 tasty and approachable recipes based on everyday ingredients and guidance on creating a daily routine filled with positive intention and gratitude. Available March 26, Gisele Bündchen—Nourish: Simple Recipes to Empower Your Body and Feed Your Soul— hardcover, 256 pages, Clarkson Potter

Organized seasonally, you'll find recipes to make the most of your farmers' market or neighborhood foraging haul, along with tips for harvesting ingredients, preserving, fermenting, and mindfulness activities. Available March 5. Ashley Rodriguez—Rooted Kitchen: Seasonal Recipes, Stories and Ways to Connect with the Natural World, hardcover, 272 pages, Clarkson Potter

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Peach Fuzz

PANTONE Color Institute Selects Peach Fuzz as its 2024 Color of the Year

“A cozy peach hue softly nestled between pink and orange, PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz brings belonging, inspires recalibration, and an opportunity for nurturing, conjuring up an air of calm, offering us a space to be, feel, and heal and to flourish from whether spending time with others or taking the time to enjoy a moment by ourselves,” says Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director, Pantone Color Institute. “Drawing comfort from PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz, we can find peace from within, impacting our wellbeing. An idea as much as a feeling, PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz awakens our senses to the comforting presence of tactility and cocooned warmth.”

The introduction of PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz also marks the 25th anniversary of the Pantone Color of the Year

program. First introduced by the Pantone Color Institute in 1999 with the Pantone Color of the Year, PANTONE 15-4020 Cerulean Blue, the Pantone Color of the Year captures the global zeitgeist, serving as an expression of a mood and an attitude on the part of the consumer.

“In the spirit of PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz, we reflect on the last 25 years of the Pantone Color of the Year program, grateful to provide an avenue where designers and color enthusiasts all over the world can engage in a conversation about color, be inspired by color and showcase their creativity within their communities. We look forward to continuing this for many more years,” said Laurie Pressman, Vice President of the Pantone Color Institute. sl

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Essential Home + Karim Rashid Klaude sofas, Karlotta Stool, and Craig center table (essentialhome.eu) Piastrelle Tbrick Fermob Luxembourg garden furniture (fermobusa.com)
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Spring Forest Lake wallpaper mural by SpaceFrog Designs (wallsauce.com)
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This page, clockwise from top left: Stout Textile Dunbar trim ($81/yard; estout.com). Friuli lounge chair from Zuiver ($2,270; zuiver.com). Opinion Ciatti Mammamia chair (opinionciatti.com/en). Charlie Cheekie Oven in Grapefruit Peach Fuzz. Servomuto Guinea wall lamp in pink ($1,680; artemest. com). Stout Textile Dunbar trim ($81/yard; estout.com). Francesco Maglia Milano Beige Malacca Umbrella ($365; artemest.com). VGnewtrend Laura Cantaloupe glass ($635; artemest.com). Foscarini Cipria table lamp ($1,146; foscarini.com). Laskasas Bur Pouff in Peach Fuzz. Royal Stranger Rock Console ($14, 856; 1stdibs.com). Hannah Bedford Raindrops topaz cluster ring ($2,049; hannahbedford.co.uk). Maya Selway Fine Jewellery Padparadscha Katherine cocktail ring ($8,250; mayaselway.com). Opposite page, clockwise from top left: Bobby Beck Candy Peach Colorful Arch wallpaper ($121/roll; bobbibeck.com). Glamora Per Sempre wall mural (glamora.it). Ngala Trading Thanda Nests linen fabric ($195/yard; ngalatrading.com). Marcus William Fabric Elizabeth fabric (marcuswilliam.com). Mary MacGill House of Love cuff ($165; marymacgill.com).

STORMING THE CASTLE

Living the life of a “Golden Guinness

Girl” at Ireland’s Ashford Castle

On a recent winter night in Ireland's County Mayo at Squire Danagher's Cottage, the original house where 'The Quiet Man' with John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara was filmed in the 1950s, we feasted on a traditional Irish dinner comprised of slow-cooked stew and potatoes (with a few glasses of champagne and seasonal canapes added to the mix). We capped off the private dining experience at this Ashford Castle outpost by sipping warmed whiskey while local students showed off their Irish dancing skills and traditional songs were performed in front of the fireplace. Much like Wayne's character of Sean Thorton, I felt right at home.

Ireland has always evoked feelings of home for me. I know I'm not alone, with nearly ten percent of the US population

reporting Irish ancestry. In my case, it's Éire's rolling hills, rugged landscape, and picturesque villages dotting the countryside that stir up something deep inside, making even first-timers feel a sense of déjà vu.

At Ashford Castle, it's the Irish themselves who feel the tug on their heartstrings as second and third generations of families, from guests to employees, have continued to return to the storied estate, spanning 350 acres of gardens, woodland along the shores of Lough Corrib, the largest lake within the Republic of Ireland. The manicured grounds provide for an array of activities ranging from country classics, such as horse riding, shooting, falconry, and fishing, to modern favorites, such as golf and biking.

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Ashford Castle sits on a beautiful 350-acre estate near the village of Cong and in County Galway,
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The Spa at Ashford Castle is housed in a contemporary addition to the 14th-century castle.

Vaster than its setting is Ashford Castle's nearly 800-year history. Built in 1228 as a medieval fortress, it was passed among noble owners, most notably the Guinness family, who fashioned it into a "grand retreat" to impress well-to-do guests. Following centuries of additions, expansions, and owners, Ashford Castle joined the Red Carnation Hotels family in 2013. The Tollman family's ardent affinity for the property ushered in a massive multi-million-dollar renovation that breathed new life into the castle and reestablished its pre-eminence among the world's luxury hotels.

A symbol of the Tollman's sweet spot for Ashford Castle is delivered at check-in: a chocolate Irish wolfhound crafted by director of chocolate and patisserie Paula Stakelum, lovingly named 'Stanley' after the late Stanley Tollman. When he died at 91 in 2021, Niall Gibbons, head of Tourism Ireland, wrote, "The investment of Red Carnation Hotels into Ashford Castle ... and the consequential impact on rural Ireland cannot be overstated."

Entering the hallowed halls at Ashford Castle feels a bit like emerging from a time capsule. Still, the castle's contemporary grandeur is something even former esteemed guest George V would revel in, from the castle's 83 rooms, each uniquely designed (but always equipped with a pair of Hunter boots and a tartan jacket for the weather) to the myriad of amenities and experiences that make every stay different than the last. Ashford exquisitely balances the royal experience with humble pleasures, allowing guests to experience Ireland's history and culture but at an elevated level.

A pinnacle experience for guests who are keen to sample an afternoon of royal rural idyll in the Irish countryside, Ashford's School of Falconry, the country’s oldest, offers a "Hawk Walk". As you stroll the estate grounds, a pair of feathered friends follow along and deftly swoop onto your gloved hand for a quick bite.

Suppose you're more inclined to fur than feathers. In that case, you can walk through the woodlands with a member of Ashford's

Prince of Wales Bar The three-dimensional mosaic installation in the spa pool was designed by by South African ceramic artist Jane du Rand. The Connaught Room serves afternoon tea and views of the castle’s manicured gradens and Lough Corrib.
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The George V dining room is named in honor of George V of England, who visited Ashford Castle in 1905.

pack of canine companions: two Irish wolfhounds, an Irish setter, and a black lab (who guided the way with his favorite slipper in mouth). While our guide frequently stopped for photo ops and Q&A, my favorite moment was when he asked us to share a picture of our dog with the group and the collective "oohs and ahhs" that followed with each person's slideshow of their favorite pup.

Sitting at the apex of our afternoon activities was a round of clay shooting, and leading up to the excursion, I fretted that it would be a frustratingly fruitless pursuit. However, our patient and knowledgeable instructors made us such good shots that even the noblemen who roamed the grounds centuries ago would've been impressed.

Whether you're looking to unwind after a day of excitement or indulge in a self-care day, Ashford's award-winning Spa offers a comprehensive menu of treatments alongside impressive facilities encompassing a luminous relaxation pool, a hammam, a steam room, and a state-of-the-art fitness suite. Just recently opened on

the Ashford estate is Éalú (an Irish word for 'escape'), a leisure and wellness facility with a suite of fitness facilities, classes, and one-on-one personal training sessions. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the pool pavilion illuminate the 15m pool, jacuzzi, splash pool, sauna, and essence-infused steam room.

I'd argue that one of Ashford's most impressive feats is reinventing what the world thinks of Irish food. Executive Head Chef Liam Finnegan's extensive 23-year career has led him to his Ashford, where his philosophy is keeping things simple but sourcing the best possible ingredients and executing every dish to perfection.

With their original kitchen gardens used during the Guinness era restored to their former glory by head gardener Alex Lavarde and his team, Ashford harvests seasonal ingredients and looks for every possible way to be more eco-friendly, such as using certain flowers as natural pesticides and working with as many local and organic food suppliers as possible.

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Oak Hall Lounge sits at the heart of the castle. Junior Stateroom #326 Hideaway Cottage bedroom
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Reagan Suite

Visiting the gardens, we crafted our dinner menu by pulling up carrots and cutting celery stalks. At the same time, Lavarde walked us through their future plans, including truffle propagated trees and growing willow to make handmade baskets, to name a few. Our dinner prepared later that day at Stanley's (patriarch Stanley Tollman's casual diner where he'd watch his beloved rugby matches) was entirely crafted by Finnegan with our ingredients foraged hours prior.

Whether it's afternoon tea in the Connaught Room, with excellent recommendations from tea master Thomas and unique blends only found at Ashford created using herbs sourced on the estate, to fine dining in the George V dining room, where the Royal Ossetra Caviar and Martin Jenning's 28-day dry-aged short rib were just as excellent as the wine pairings compiled by resident sommelier Paul Fogerty, there are endless opportunities to discover the seasonal and local ingredients of Ireland with food that warms the soul.

Today, the self-named 'characters of the castle' are as constitutive as the ancient stone walls within which they work their magic. Following our first night, I was excited to see the staff's familiar faces, from Robert Bowe, the restaurant and wine program manager who cheerfully greeted us before each meal, to a colorful cast of characters who were happy to engage in quick

quips and stories of the castle while delivering exceptional service. The rapport between guests and staff is one of the many aspects that makes Ashford so endearing. When every staff member addressed me by name, I felt just as vaunted as Aileen, Maureen, and Oonagh, the daughters of Ernest Guinness, dubbed the "Golden Guinness Girls" and darlings of 1920s British society who used to grace the halls of the castle.

While taking a nightcap in the Drawing Room, Ashford's lounge singer, Annette Griffith, took care to tour the room and greet familiar faces. It was a testament to her longevity at Ashford and guests' desire to keep coming back.

Our dinner at Squire Danagher's Cottage culminated with a classic apple pie; despite its humble reputation, the dessert became the talk of the trip, with the staff gifting us the coveted recipe as part of our turn-down service on the final night, proving not only the food was unforgettable (that was the topic of conversation over several days), but also that the staff takes a particular interest in the guests, and in this case handcrafting a small recipe booklet to bring home with us. Throughout its storied history, Ashford Castle served as a haven for the aristocrats who frequented it. Today, the Tollman family has ensured its legacy as a welcome and luxurious travelers' respite and symbol of Ireland for generations to come. sl

Cronan and Garvan, Ashford Castle’s resident Irish Wolfhounds.
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Photo by Richard Moran.

FOR THE BIRDS

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This page, clockwise from top left: Fred Leighton enamel parrot hoop earrings ($4,950; fredleighton.com). Anita Ko large diamond wing necklace ($19,950; anitako.com). The 128.54carat Tiffany Diamond featured in a transformable design that draws inspiration from the iconic Bird on a Rock. Courtesy of Tiffany & Co. (tiffany.com). Roberto Coin Tiny Treasures hummingbird necklace ($1,250). Available through Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, Davis Jewelers in Louisville, Diamond Cellar in Nashville, and robertocoin.com/en-us. One-of-a-kind Elsa Jin Life Brooch (elsajinstudio.com). Onirikka finch earrings ($2,200; onirikka.com). Cicada Jewelry owl ring (cicajewelry.com). Modern Moghul Mora brooch ($4,000; modernmoghul.com). Sylvie Corbelin Love Bird earrings ($6,700; brokenenglishjewelry.com). Albarre' roadrunner brooch ($780; albarre.com). Fred Leighton enamel parrot hoop earrings ($4,950; fredleighton.com). Albarre' bird brooch ($3,600; albarre.com). Vincent Peach bird cage earrings ($11,880; vincentpeach.com). EF Collection diamond swan ring ($2,985; efcollection.com). Opposite page, clockwise from top left: Brooch with a 57.85 carat aquamarine from Picchiotti ($98,700). Available through Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis, Elleard Heffern Fine Jewelers in St. Louis and picchiotti.it/en/. Eden Presley Wisdom Owl lapis pendant ($1,800; edenpresley.com).

OLD DOG, NEW TRICKS

A

century-old Czech Republic car manufacturer enters the hypercar market.

Praga is likely the oldest car brand you've never heard of. Founded in the late 1800s as a manufacturer of heavy industrial machinery, it moved into vehicle production in 1907 with its two-cylinder Praga Charon. In the following decades, Praga moved into producing motorcycles, trucks, farm equipment, single-engine aircraft, military vehicles and machinery, enduro bikes, and race cars. The company recently reached a performance pinnacle when it announced that its first road-legal hypercar—the Praga Bohema—commenced production in a dedicated facility in the Czech Republic.

The Praga Bohema, first revealed in prototype form in late2022, will be hand-built in very limited numbers over the next four years. The company says it could well be the last all-new gas-powered hypercar. With a carbon fiber monocoque and body weighing less than 2,204 pounds and boasting 700bhp at 6,800 rpm and a top speed of just over 186mph, the mid-engine aerodriven two-seater will be a dramatic addition to hypercar collectors' garages. The company said in a launch press release that in the right hands, the two-seater "is capable of extreme high performance on

track targeting GT3 race car lap times on its semi-slick Pirellis." When not traveling at breakneck speed, extreme rubbernecking is guaranteed during off-track road driving.

Praga says the inspiration for Bohema came from longstanding Praga pal and former F1 and current IndyCar driver Romain Grosjean, who challenged the company to deliver an uncompromised two-person road/track performance car, a rare creature that you can drive to the track, pull on a crash helmet (taken from the bespoke luggage fitted in each of the car's 13.2 gallon side pods), put in lap after lap at high speed on its Pirelli Trofeo R tires, and then drive home again. "On the road, you get a smooth ride, the car eliminates the bumps, you can chat with the passenger, and everything is calm and OK," said Grosjean. "Then simply switch focus, and you are on the track. The same clothes, the same car, but the feeling changes, and you are pushing the limit and collecting amazing lap times again and again."

Although race-bred, the Bohema doesn't skimp on comfort and bespoke functionality, with a hand-assembled and hand-stitched

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Tomas Kasparek, owner of Praga Cars

interior comprising carbon fiber, Alcantara and leather that can comfortably accommodate two 6.5-feet-tall adults. The narrow cockpit boasts a fully adjustable driver's seat, steering column, and pedal box. The custom steering wheel, which incorporates a sizeable digital display, is removable for easy entry and exit. The slim center console, launch control, built-in fire extinguisher trigger, and electronic parking brake are located within the slim center console. Hearkening to Praga's aviation division, the airconditioning controls are mounted in a 'fighter jet' style roof console.

First customers of the $1.5m road-legal hypercar were recently invited to visit Praga's bespoke assembly facility to see the handbuilding process and experience the final production specification Bohema on its standard Pirelli Trofeo R tires on icy Czech roads, ahead of its public reveal scheduled for later this spring.

The first customer Bohema handover will occur in Europe in the first half of 2024, with that particular hypercar featuring a unique specification to celebrate the occasion. Customer handovers are also planned in the UAE and USA in 2024, with Praga scheduling Bohema

production into 2025. Limited test drive opportunities in Europe and the UK will begin this spring before Praga activates its North American and Middle East Bohema launch programs later this year.

Bohema production follows the completion of Praga's intensive on-road pre-production development and on-track ride-and-drive test programs occurring throughout 2023 at locations including Spa-Francorchamps, the Red Bull Ring, and Nürburgring. Praga says they sourced advice and performance expertise from some of the world's best drivers on road and track, including F1 and IndyCar driver Romain Grosjean, former "Stig" of BBC's Top Gear, and Praga's Chief Test Driver Ben Collins, and experienced GT racer, Josef Kral.

"This is an important milestone for Praga in our long 117-year history," remarked Tomas Kasparek, owner of Praga Cars. "We're especially proud to be commencing production only one year after revealing the Bohema prototype. We are monitoring every stage of the build process very closely to make sure that the Bohema production car matches, and even exceeds our customers' expectations." sl

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MINIMAL TO THE MAX

Nature and luxury co-exist in refined harmony at Camp Sarika by Amangiri.

While it's often said that "money can't buy happiness," I'd argue that a stay at Camp Sarika by Amangiri most certainly can. Having spent several days before our arrival exploring the natural wonders of the Grand Circle region, I was absolutely giddy with excitement en route from the Page (AZ) Municipal Airport to the 920-acre resort, surrounded by five national parks, several national monuments, and the Navajo Nation, the largest Native American reservation in the United States.

Anyone with deep enough pockets can construct a jawdropping luxury resort, and there has certainly been no shortage of such properties featured on the pages of this magazine over the past two decades. What truly distinguishes Camp Sarika and Amangiri is how its physical structures are nearly indiscernible from the landscape in the protected valley in which it's nestled, dwarfed by lofty flattopped mesa rock formations carved over millennia through the random interplay of water and wind. It's also the way the property touches on all the senses as an homage to Native American culture and the desert's desolate beauty, from the subtle scent of sage to the

sound of wood "popping" in the fireplace, the fabric hand of a wool blanket emblazoned with Navajo motifs, to the constant interplay of sunlight and shadow on the built environment and the mesa.

A short and scenic hike (or golf cart shuttle) from the amenities available at Amangiri, Camp Sarika's ten tented pavilions are scattered among 55 acres. The concrete composition of the main pavilion, comprising the lobby, restaurant, and spa/pool buildings, and their minimalist interiors—punctuated by iconography representative of the local landscape and culture—convey the iconic design of its sister property.

After completing the check-in process, the smell of onions, garlic, and butter cooking drew us into Camp Sarika's all-day restaurant, where we chatted up the chef about what he was making with the divine combination, destined for that evening's dinner tasting menu, which changes daily. A trail leads from the restaurant's terrace to a natural amphitheater: a rock alcove at the base of a 600-feet mesa large enough to have once hosted a private performance by Dave Matthews.

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Camp Sarika Pavilion Plunge Pool

Unlike any other "tent" you've likely slept in, there isn't a single sleeping bag or air mattress in sight at Camp Sarika. With a minimum of 1,900 square feet inside and 764 square feet of terrace around a private plunge pool, each of the 10 one- and twobedroom pavilions offers a feeling of spaciousness that mirrors the expansiveness of their surroundings (Camp Sarika's name comes from the Sanskrit word for 'open space' and 'sky').

Designed to weather the full spectrum of desert weather that can span temperatures from 20° to 105° F, the sand-colored tents are strategically spread out along a single paved road that snakes along the base of the copper-colored sandstone mesa, so no one could hear me exclaim "can you believe this place?!" as I moved from roomto-room, marveling at the chic interiors, sprinkled with myriad influences, from campaign to contemporary, and encompassing furnishings that are both bespoke and sourced from brands including Nanimarquina, Annie Selke, Christian Liaigre, Marset, and Dedon. The sprawling bath included a walk-in closet, indoor and outdoor showers, a mesa-facing soaking tub in front of a floor-to-ceiling window, and luxurious Aman-branded toiletries.

A Douglas Fir sliding door in the dining area grants access to the covered terrace, a heated plunge pool, and an array of comfortable loungers. Outside the sheltering embrace of the extended canvas overhang is a firepit encircled by chic safari-style leather and canvas chairs with a warm blanket neatly folded on each seat.

Even with scores of natural wonders within easy reach, Camp Sarika and the additional amenities offered at Amangiri and available to Camp Sarika guests are ample enough to amply fill out the itinerary of even the most type-A vacationers.

Following a seasonally-inspired breakfast, you can head to Amangiri for a complimentary morning fitness class in their superbly equipped gym, part of a sprawling 25,000-square-foot spa complex. Set off for a hike on 12 miles of well-marked on-property trails, or let a horse, e-bike, or UTV do the work while you enjoy the scenery. Challenge your fear of heights and relish in the adrenaline rush of completing one of several guided Via Ferrata routes, in which a series of cables and ladder rungs fixed to the rock face allow you to literally ascend to new heights. Those who opt for the "Hoodoo" route can traverse an 18-inch wide, 270-foot-long suspension bridge spanning a 400-foot deep gorge. Any angst felt while ascending is worth it for the jaw-dropping views at the top (not to mention the sense of accomplishment you'll feel!).

Reward all that effort with a spa treatment, either at Amangiri or in a pair of spa suites adjacent to Camp Sarika's pool. The latter delivers a complete menu of therapies inspired by traditional Navajo wellness practices and incorporates Aman's superbly scented products. With Sandalwood, jasmine, amber, and rose notes, the Grounding line is a personal favorite and can now be purchased online to impart a little spa experience to your daily beauty ritual.

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Camp Sarika Main Pool
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Camp Sarika Tent 9 living and dining areas
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In partnership with the Navajo Nation, the resort provides daily programming highlighting aspects of Navajo culture. Crossing a 232-foot-long suspension bridge spanning a 600-foot deep gorge as part of an on-site Via Ferrata excursion.
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Via Ferrata “Hoodoo” route

In partnership with the Navajo Nation, the resort provides daily programming highlighting aspects of Navajo culture, from dancing and music to storytelling, weaving, jewelry making, and the history of Navajo Code Talkers. Distinguished by petroglyphs and recognized as a significant archaeological site where 6,000-yearold artifacts have been unearthed, Broken Arrow Cave, a short hike from the resort (and enterable with a guide), is where, from August through October, German artist-in-residence Ulrike Arnold creates unique paintings with natural materials procured on site for guests to observe the process. At day's end, marveling at an infinite sky packed with stars is the perfect nightcap.

Suppose you do want to head off property. In that case, the concierge can arrange for scores of over-the-top experiences, such as landing via helicopter atop Lake Powell's Tower Butte for a private yoga class or visiting remote backcountry geological wonders with a Navajo guide. The available adventures here are as big as your imagination.

Meals and non-alcoholic beverages are included in the nightly room rate. Camp Sarika's restaurant, open only to Camp guests for breakfast and lunch and to Amangiri guests with a reservation at dinner, serves flavorful Southwestern-inspired cuisine highlighting local and seasonal produce. Their lineup of

wellness mocktails are as exciting and beautifully presented as their boozy brethren. While I wanted to avail ourselves of the nearly banquet-sized dining table in our tent by enjoying an in-villa dinner, we so enjoyed conversing with the restaurant staff, who hail from all corners of the globe, that it never happened. A testament to the staff's attentiveness, during breakfast our first morning, I mentioned that my sinuses were suffering in the desert air, and by the time we returned to our tent, a humidifier was up and running.

Several unique al fresco spots on the property can host parties or dinners from four to 60. Offering a dramatic setting with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the view across the plains, be sure to time your visit to Amangiri Restaurant with the sunset. The open-plan kitchen with a wood-fired oven supports a menu deeply influenced by Native American cuisine, the pinnacle of which is the four-course 'Spirit of the Journey' tasting menu that pays homage to the region's five tribes.

The Navajo proverb, be still, and the earth will speak to you, resonates at both Camp Sarika and Amangiri, where the built environment plays second fiddle to their majestic surroundings and embrace of Navajo culture, reminding guests luxury can lie in the embrace of simplicity and moments of quiet solitude. sl

Firepit outside Camp Sarika Tent 10
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A piece from a temporary windbell installation along the trail leading from Amangiri to Camp Sarika created in partnership with the nonprofit Cosanti Foundation.
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EMBRACING THE BEAUTY OF SPRING

A comprehensive guide to planting vibrant flower pots

As the frigid grip of winter thaws, spring blossoms with color and vitality. One of the most delightful ways to embrace the season is by planting spring flower pots. Whether you have a spacious garden or a cozy balcony, creating eye-catching planters is a simple joy that connects you to the renewal of nature. Let’s explore steps to planting beautiful spring flower pots that will bring life to your outdoor spaces.

Step 1: Choose the right container for your space

What is the feel of your decor? Contemporary, rustic, traditional or funky, your planter is the first step to creating a captivating spring display. Containers come in many shapes, sizes, materials, and colors. Use a mix of sizes and shapes to add visual interest, and make sure your exterior planters have drainage holes. Terra-cotta, ceramic, fiberglass, or decorative plastic pots are excellent choices. Ensure that your containers complement the style and aesthetic of your outdoor space.

Step 2: Gather essential materials

Prepare for planting your spring pots by gathering all of the essential supplies you will need for this gardening adventure:

• High-quality potting mix

• Gardening gloves

• Trowel

• Watering can or hose

• Spring-blooming flowers that can withstand a frost

• Plant mixes should include thrillers, fillers, and spillers

Step 3: Plan your design

Before you start digging in the dirt, plan your arrangement. Consider the size of your pots and the varying heights of your plants. Divide your plants into three categories: thrillers (tall focal plants), fillers (medium-sized supporting plants), and spillers (trailing or cascading plants). This thoughtful layout will ensure a well-balanced and visually appealing display.

Step 4: Prepare the soil

Before filling your planter with soil, place a layer of rocks or remove the plants from the plastic nursery pots and crush the pots into the bottom to encourage proper drainage. Then, place a layer of garden fabric on top of the drainage materials. Fill each pot halfway with the potting mix. Read the label to ensure that the mix is suitable for the plants selected, providing good drainage and nutrients. As you remove flowers from their nursery pots, gently loosen the roots before placing them in the soil to provide a healthy foundation for growth.

Step 5: Put thrillers in the spotlight

Begin with the thrillers, like tulips, daffodils or hyacinths. Plant these tall upright beauties toward the center of the pot to establish a focal point that draws the eye and sets the tone for the entire arrangement.

Step 6: Surround thrillers with fillers

Surround the thrillers with medium-sized flowers like pansies, violas, or snap dragons. These fillers add volume, texture, and a delightful mix of colors. Try to space fillers about seven inches apart, so they have room to spread out and grow up about 10 to 12 inches.

Step 7: Find a home for the spillers

Complete your masterpiece by introducing spillers along the edges of the pot. Trailing plants such as trailing ivy, creeping jenny, or sweet potato vines add a graceful cascade of greenery, softening the edges and adding a touch of whimsy. Allow these plants to spill over the sides for a dynamic and flowing effect. It’s okay if they seem small at first. Trust me…they will grow wonderfully!

Step 8: Water and care for your new plantings

Time to water! Soak planters thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage hole in the bottom. Watering settles the soil, provides proper hydration for the freshly planted flowers, and helps them acclimate to their new home.

Plants of all species love consistency! Set a schedule–perhaps a notification on your phone–that reminds you to care for your plants. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings but never let the soil dry out completely. On the flip side, do not overwater, or root rot could set in. When watering, deadhead any sad flowers at the base of the stalk where they sprouted. This encourages continuous blooming.

Fertilize every couple of weeks to keep your colorful spring bouquets thriving until it is time for a summer refresh. Keep in mind placement is important. Spring flowers are happiest when exposed to full or partial sun in cool temperatures.

Planting spring flower pots is not just a gardening task; it’s a celebration of nature’s resilience and the promise of new beginnings. By following these steps and infusing your own creativity, you can craft stunning displays that enhance the beauty of your outdoor spaces. Embrace the joy of gardening, and let your spring flower pots be a testament to the magic of the changing seasons. sl For more information, visit naturspire.com

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COMMISSION ROW

Pacers Sports & Entertainment and Cunningham Restaurant Group have a slam dunk with their latest venture.

A few days before the NBA All-Star weekend in February, our publisher and I decided to run the gauntlet of the downtown crowds to pay a visit to the highly anticipated and recently opened dining and entertainment venue, Commission Row, while seats in the dining room were still available. An overnight hit with reviewers and social media types alike, this upscale multicomplex was already generating the kind of fanfare usually reserved for spots helmed by celebrity chefs in Chicago or New York.

A partnership between Pacers Sports & Entertainment and Cunningham Restaurant Group, Commission Row, situated on Bicentennial Unity Plaza just steps from Gainbridge Fieldhouse, offers 30,000 square feet of dining and entertainment space in a premium downtown location. Featuring a lower-level speakeasy, Mel’s, as well as a street-level chophouse and seafood restaurant, this luxurious hospitality site also boasts an upper-level event space catering to private parties.

Above, which offers heated outdoor terraces overlooking Bicentennial Plaza, with its basketball court that converts into an ice skating rink over the winter months, is equipped to comfortably host over 200 guests. Consisting of several distinct spaces, including a smaller private dining room overlooking Delaware Street, this is not your run-of-the-mill event venue. Furnishings and finishes are refined, verging on opulent, and the overall impression is that this is an extension of the restaurant below, only on a larger scale. We were fortunate to receive a private tour before Above had hosted its first event; we were impressed by the scale and silence of the yet-to-be-used kitchen, its pans and dishes still shrink-wrapped in anticipation of the deluge of meals it would produce over the following week.

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Commission Row restaurant slmag.net 77
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The stunning bar at Mel’s speakeasy
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The bar at Commission Row
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Above, the event space at Commission Row

Since opening Boulder Creek back in 1997, Indianapolis-based Cunningham Restaurant Group (CRG) has become one of the region’s most successful restaurant consortiums, with a portfolio that includes Provision, Mesh, Livery, BRU Burger, Vida, Nesso and RIZE, to name just a few. Now with 42 establishments across three states, CRG has become known in the region for its broad spectrum of culinary styles that reflect cuisines from around the world, in settings that run the gamut from neighborhood bar to casual and fine dining. With the opening of Commission Row, CRG has moved into the upper tier of luxury dining, with the affluent sporting community its target market.

“We aim to create a larger-than-life experience right in downtown Indy,” explains Mike Cunningham, founder and CEO, “Commission Row is not your average steakhouse, and we want our guests to have an unforgettable experience from the moment they walk through the door.”

Commission Row takes its name from the colloquial nickname first given to Delaware Street in the mid-19th century, when the Wholesale District helped Indianapolis evolve into a center for trade and commerce. Delaware Street became a crossroad for farmers selling their wares to those making their way to and from the West, and the neighborhood thrived until the Great Depression. In recent years, the Wholesale District has become recognized as a hotspot for the intersection of sports, arts, dining, and entertainment. The name of the speakeasy, Mel’s, pays tribute to Melvin Simon who, together with his brother, Herb, purchased the Pacers in 1983 and whose business and philanthropic investments helped shape the city.

“The momentum in our downtown is real and exciting, and amenities like Commission Row, in the heart of our city, not only add to our vibrancy but pay tribute to Indy’s rich history as well,” says Rick Fuson, Pacers Sports & Entertainment chief executive officer.

Elegant and striking design has been a trademark of CRG restaurants since the beginning. Entering Commission Row from Delaware street, guests are ushered into a small vestibule with shimmering wall installations that provide few clues as to what lies beyond. Up a short flight of stairs, the majestic main dining room is revealed, with showstopping chandeliers, floor to ceiling windows that showcase gorgeous views of the plaza below, and the custom furnishings that we have come to expect from Cunningham. Earth tones harmonize in every direction; leather banquettes and chairs hint at a modern but cozy clubhouse. It is easy to simply sit and admire the décor for a few minutes before getting down to the serious business at hand, which is, of course, the food and drink.

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Red meat is definitely on the menu at Commission Row--here, a luscious Tomahawk Ribeye

In the more than capable hands of executive chef and Carmel, Indiana native Corey Fuller, the reassuringly concise menu offers exactly the kind of elevated fare that more than equals the splendid décor and accomplished service. A good way to approach the menu at Commission Row is head-on. Begin perhaps with a seafood tower, featuring lobster, shrimp, crab legs and marinated mussels, or perhaps half a dozen fresh oysters from wherever the chef’s fancy may take him. Next up, try the roasted marrow bone, split lengthwise and served with parsley salad, sea salt and toast, a wonderful amalgamation of salt, fat and savory. When it comes to the main course, the best choices are between fish and steak. On a recent visit, we enjoyed an impeccable ribeye with some of the most perfectly prepared au gratin potatoes I can remember. We might also have opted for the highly praised Chilean sea bass, but preferred to go the strictly carnivorous route.

With many years in the hospitality industry, executive general manager Ian Saroyan, along with his team of seasoned professionals, keeps this busy dining room humming along seamlessly. The wine list, designed by longtime Cunningham wine director Roddy Kirschenman, is a splendid example of how enjoyable a restaurant wine experience can be if it is put in the hands of people who know what they are doing. Offering a nice balance of smaller-production estate wines and the usual Napa suspects, there is something here even for the most discerning oenophile.

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The Pink Lady features gunpowder gin, calvados and house grenadine.
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The Seafood Tower is not to be missed. French Onion Mac-N-Cheese
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The Commission Row menu offers lighter fare as well, like this Ora King Salmon. The entrance to Mel’s
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Mel’s is a place to see and be seen.

The restaurant’s cocktail menu sticks to the classics: there is a sidecar, a Manhattan, and a cosmopolitan, all made with top-shelf ingredients and generously poured. A martini bar offers the complete range of styles, from Churchill to dry, classic to sweet. We chose a couple of the drier styles and found them to be entirely perfect. Desserts, created by the talented Ben Hardy, mark a welcome departure from the mass-produced confections one so unfortunately and so often finds at most restaurants these days. Pastry chefs are highly underrated, sad to say.

Located below the steakhouse, guests can enjoy some refreshment either before or after dinner at Mel’s speakeasy. This intimate and bustling space showcases refined bar bites, a vintage ambiance, and an extensive cocktail menu featuring modern twists on classic drinks, wine and barrel-aged spirits. Here, the cocktail game is raised a notch or two, and features more esoteric spirits and complex preparations. Providing an elegant alternative to the city’s numerous upscale watering holes, Mel’s has proven to be highly popular with Pacers players, entourage and fans, with the weekend of the All-Star game providing a taste of things to come. Whether you start or end, as we did, the evening at Mel’s, this unique spot is a must-visit, the perfect exclamation point on your elevated experience at the uniquely enjoyable Commission Row. sl For more information, visit commissionrow.com

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The dessert menu is full of delights, like The Ispaha, which features a macaron shell with lychee-rose buttercream filling and fresh raspberry.
317-550-2500 COMMISSIONROW.COM 110 S DELAWARE STREET INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46204
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The Ritz-Carlton, Naples

PUTTIN’ ON THE RITZ–TIMES TWO

There’s something for everyone at these five-star Naples resorts.

by

/ Photographed by The Ritz-Carlton Resorts of Naples

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Now that our daughter has gone off to college and our son is fast approaching high school graduation, the days of the impromptu family vacation are sadly disappearing into the distant past. Looking at our calendars last year, my wife and I realized that winter break would be the only time the four of us could travel together for any length of time, and so it was that earlier this January we headed south to the warmer climes of Naples, Florida, and to the sister resorts of the recently renovated Ritz-Carlton, Naples and the former Ritz-Carlton, Naples Golf Resort, now known as The RitzCarlton Naples, Tiburón.

Knowing that my daughter and I would enjoy outdoor activities and the beach at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, while my wife and son would be permanent fixtures on the Greg Normandesigned golf courses at Tiburón, but that we would also like to spend the entire trip in each others’ company, we hit upon the idea of splitting our visit down the middle, spending the first half at the former and the second at the latter. Transported from the airport in a hotel house car, our arrival was quintessential RitzCarlton, the kind of welcome we always appreciate, but never take for granted. Greeted by name (even our children) at the porte cochere by valets and bell staff, we were also treated like long-lost relatives when we set foot in the new and expansive Club Lounge on the first floor just off the lobby.

Overlooking the wide-ranging shoreline of Vanderbilt Beach and the Gulf of Mexico in the resort’s new Vanderbilt Tower, The Ritz-Carlton Club Level is an oasis for the discerning traveler. Club-level guests receive dedicated concierge service including check-in hosted in the lounge, the biggest yet for the luxury brand, a celebratory full-service bar, private office space, an inviting lounge and dining room featuring five daily culinary presentations, including a live chef at breakfast and dinner, as well as a whimsical kids’ space. Featuring wines selected by The Ritz-Carlton, Naples’ Master Sommelier and a connoisseur’s collection of signature spirits, the lounge’s private bar offers an exclusive cocktail experience. A grab-and-go section of snacks by the door was so large it rivaled some small convenience stores. To say our kids’ eyes were out on stalks would be almost true and, if they believe in heaven, they may have thought they’d arrived prematurely.

In the intervening two years since hurricane Ian decimated much of southwest Florida, The Ritz-Carlton, Naples has taken the opportunity to remodel and add onto the beach property. Although much of the surrounding country still bears the marks of the storm’s devastation, at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples all is as pristine and orderly as one might expect. Despite the damage, more residents of Indianapolis, half of whom I seem to know, own holiday homes in Naples than any other part of the country, such is the irresistible charm of the place.

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A pool at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples is the perfect place to spend the day.
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The Club Lounge at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples
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The stunning lobby bar at the Ritz-Carlton, Naples
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Mornings at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples followed what has become something of a routine for us over the many years we have been visiting: breakfast at the Club Lounge, usually fruit and coffee for my wife and me, and something more substantial for the kids (if they were even out of bed by breakfast time), followed by a workout at the well-appointed gym. Most days the four of us would convene mid-morning to borrow the hotel’s bicycles for an invigorating ride along the paths that follow the coast or head into downtown Naples. On a couple of mornings, the ladies enjoyed some first-class pampering at the hotel spa, while my son and I lounged at the pool and in our private cabana, complete with beverages and a dedicated poolside butler. Steps from the resort pools, fully enclosed, air-conditioned bungalows offer luxurious comfort, including private baths, televisions, and refreshments. Of course we made sure to take every reasonable opportunity to enjoy the house-made ice cream and freshly roasted coffee at the dawn-to-dusk café Moka.

During the entirety of our stay, we only ventured away from the resorts for dinner on one occasion. Having spent an afternoon

shopping on Fifth Avenue South in downtown Naples, and meandering around Third Street South in Old Naples, we repaired to The MED, a favorite artisan eatery. Inspired by a passion for Mediterranean flavors and a desire to create a European coastal experience in the heart of the Bayshore Art District, The MED offers an intimate dining experience. Beginning with octopus and beef tartare, we went on to enjoy the veal cutlet and a whole branzino, amongst other delicious items, accompanied by a lively Negroamaro from Puglia. Having visited the original Naples just last year, our experience at The MED was tinged with more than just a hint of nostalgia.

Otherwise, we dined exclusively at the truly extraordinary collection of restaurants at The Ritz-Carlton Resorts of Naples. Without doubt, our favorite of all was Sofra, a Turkish-inspired establishment featuring a vegetable-forward menu reflecting the food culture of the Mediterranean Sea. Sofra presents signature dishes created with authentic spices and regional wines, along with aged feta cheese and hand-pressed olive oil. Sofra is a Turkish term for gathering together to enjoy an extended meal, so as one would expect there is a strong emphasis on shareable

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Sofra, at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, offers shareable Mediterranean plates.

dishes, featuring plenty of vibrant colors and flavors, citrus and spice. Main courses, most of them cooked in traditional Turkish clay pots, include fragrant tagines and fresh fish, and of course there are plentiful pastries, replete with honey and nuts, as well as that wonderful, tooth staining coffee that will keep you awake all night. We enjoyed Sofra so much that we returned twice for lunch after our initial dinner. My family and I also enjoyed more casual fare at the beachfront Gumbo Limbo, as well as some fresh and beautifully prepared sushi at Dusk.

A much-beloved social hub in Naples for decades, the sophisticated new lobby of The Ritz-Carlton, Naples features an ornate lobby bar and signature Champagne tasting experience. An homage to decades of celebrations, the Champagne bar offers guests an enviable selection of more than 50 legendary bottles and a Master Sommelier-designed tasting experience. My wife and I made sure to participate in a tasting on our second evening before dinner.

Located a few minutes away from the beach hotel, The RitzCarlton Naples, Tiburón is nestled among native wetlands and

migratory bird preserves. This palatial resort offers a sanctuary for couples and families seeking an oasis of calm away from the daily grind. Inspired by surrounding waters, the resort’s Reservoir water park features a winding river, water slides and private cabanas. Located within an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, Tiburón Golf Club features two legendary courses and a suite of services designed exclusively for golf vacations.

Drawing from the natural beauty of the Audubon sanctuary and preserves surrounding Tiburón, the nationally acclaimed firm Parker Torres Designs is in the process of incorporating the natural aesthetic throughout the resort. A work in progress, guest rooms and suites will become a harmonious haven with earth tones complemented by opulent finishes, creating a dramatic, yet tranquil, setting when they are revealed later this year.

Having spent a day divided between the golf course and water park, the four of us relaxed with an al fresco dinner under the stars at Ría, an elegant restaurant that features fresh, homemade dishes and drinks inspired by a variety of Latin American traditions and techniques in a refined setting with outdoor seating.

A greek yogurt parfait makes a healthy dessert at Sofra. Local Heirloom Tomato Salad
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Cocktails are an event at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples.
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The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, Tiburón has its own water park.
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The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, Tiburón features two Greg Norman-designed golf courses.
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Ria, Tiburón’s newest restaurant, features Latin American cuisine in a relaxed outdoor setting.

When we weren’t swimming or splashing, my daughter and I joined my wife and son for a couple rounds of golf. Tiburón consists of two 18-hole championship courses that reflect Greg Norman’s appreciation for pristine natural settings and his passion for great golf. The picturesque courses feature stacked sod wall bunkers, coquina shell waste bunkers and no conventional rough. Home to three of golf’s most exciting events, we attempted the challenge of replicating golf shots executed by the world’s leading professionals, which was a lot harder than it may sound, even though I consider myself somewhat decent at the game. With

bicycle tours and organized nature walks, there was plenty for us to do as a family.

As is always the case, our final days quickly slipped away in a blur of golf, swimming and bicycling, not to mention plenty of wonderful food and drink in the Club Lounge. I tried my best to savor every moment, knowing that a return trip with the family will not be in the cards for quite some time. Our flight back home was somewhat muted; I, for one, was lost in our memories of a wonderful time spent at these two dream-like resorts. No wonder half of Indianapolis spends their winters in Naples. sl For more information, visit ritzcarlton.com

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This area of the pool at Tiburón is designed with young families in mind.
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SOPHISTICATED SOCIETY

Presented by

March

2 Elegant Vintages International Wine Auction,The Conrad Hotel Indianapolis, indianapoliszoo.com

3-17 BNP Paribas Open, Indian Wells, California, bnpparibasopen.com

5-9 Mecum Auctions, State Farm Stadium, Glendale, Arizona, mecum.com

10 96th Annual Academy Awards, Los Angeles, California, oscars.org

12-17 The Players Championship,TPC Sawgrass, Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, theplayers.com

16-23 Snowboxx Musical Festival, Avioraz Ski Resort, Avioraz, France, snowboxx.com

21-24 Rolex Australian Grand Prix, Melbourne, Australia, grandprix.com.au

April

6-8 NC AA Men’s Final Four, State Farm Stadium, Glendale, Arizona, ncaa.com

6-14 Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters, Monte Carlo, France, montecarlotennismasters.com

11-13

11-14

The Randox Grand National, Aintree Racecourse, Liverpool, England, thejockeyclub.co.uk

The Masters, Augusta, Georgia, masters.com

12-14, 19-21 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, Indio, California, coachella.com

27-5/1 Mediterranean Yacht Show, Nafplion, Greece, mediterraneanyachtshow.gr

27-5/12

The 63rd Annual Decorators’ Show House and Gardens, The Sylvan House at Northern Estates, Indianapolis, Indiana, showhouseindy.org

Compiled by Kerstie Shaw

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DUCHESSA

DISCOVERING BROADWAY

Discovering Broadway hosted a Launch Party on November 2 for their sixth programmed musical, The Trouble with Dead Boyfriends. Discovering Broadway Inc. is a nonprofit dedicated to making Indiana the launchpad for Broadway-bound musicals by hosting writers’ retreats for creative teams workshopping their shows. At the culmination of these workshops, Broadway performers premiere the score in concert to a Hoosier audience. These events are a sneak peek of an upcoming concert of the show and help to get the community excited about the shows coming to Indiana. The Launch Party, which started at Mickey and Janie Maurer’s home and ended at Jill and Matt Burnett’s residence, was a unique offering. For a group of 100 supporters and partners of Discovering Broadway, the awardwinning authors, Alex Petti and Annie Pulsipher, of the new musical The Trouble with Dead Boyfriends, discussed the show’s origin, the process of making a musical, and premiered four songs from the show. Carmel native and Broadway actor Eric Wiegand sang songs from the score alongside Hulu’s Up Here actress Emilia Suárez. Musicians included Michael Conley on piano, Alex Petti on guitar, and Briah Golder on drums. The Trouble with Dead Boyfriends is a musical comedy that follows Stella, Grace, and Madison, three BFFs, who haven’t been able to get boyfriends and prom is next month. So...they buy a ouija board and ask the spirits for boyfriends. It works, except each boyfriend is a monster that they now have to kill to save their town and their friendship. In less than three years, Discovering Broadway has programmed six Broadway-bound shows: Sir Elton John’s The Devil Wears Prada, a musical adaptation of Drew Barrymore’s 1998 film Ever After: A Cinderella Story, Hamlet: A Pop Musical, The Turning, Five Points, and The Trouble with Dead Boyfriends. To be the first to get tickets to the concert in 2024 or to learn more about master classes and getting involved, join the mailing list at discoveringbroadway.org.

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1) Don Knebel, Jill Burnett, Brian Payne, Diane Thompson 2) Matt Burnett, Jill Burnett, Janie Maurer, Mickey Maurer 3) Amy Wiegmann, Brendan Frank 4) Ersal Ozdemir, Izabela Ozdemir 5) James Schregardus, Lauren Schregardus 6) Frank Basile, Fernando Seria, Richard Buckner 7) Kathryn Randolph, Ryan Randolph 8) Jason Noyan, Jill Burnett, Linda Maurer, Todd Maurer 9) Karen Barnes, Clay Barnes Photographed by Mark Lee
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2284 West 86th Street | Indianapolis

CHRISTMAS IN THE KITCHEN

Nearly 400 people attended Christmas in the Kitchen on December 7 at the downtown Indianapolis Hyatt Regency to benefit Indiana Wish. It was the 20th year for the event. Guests enjoyed fun activities like the Tito’s Toss and Diamond Direct Bling Ring, as well as a silent auction and amazing food by Chef Reese and his culinary team. The evening raised $60,000 to grant wishes to Indiana children ages 3-18 suffering from life-threatening illnesses.

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1) Jason Caldwell, Danielle Caldwell 2) Kelly Pilarski, Paul Pilarski 3) Julianna Bolonyi, Olivia Myers 4) Jeff Dowden, Cheryl Dowden 5) Kyle Thomas, Kevin Spitler 6) Jasen Phelps, Lisa Curry 7) Dan Klemkosky, Katie Klemkosky, Kelli Wiess, Chris Wiess 8) Michelle Gallegos, Shelley Maher 9) Kerry Stuart, Terry Weiss, Rich Stuart 10) Susan Graham, Matthew Graham
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Photographed
by Emily Lewis

NANCY NOEL DOCUMENTARY

The award-winning documentary Art & Soul–a Portrait of Nancy Noel, directed by Alex Kosene, premiered on October 7 at the Heartland International Film Festival. The film will screen at the historic Artcraft Theatre for Heartland’s BEST OF FEST on March 2, and on March 25, the film’s team will travel and premiere the film at the prestigious AmDocs Film Festival in Palm Springs, California.

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Photographed by Amy Pauszek
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1) Bruce Poetz, Nancy Poetz 2) Jill Zaniker, Fernando Serpa, Richard Buckner, Lisa Doss 3) Katrina Basile, Frank Basile 4) Alex Kosene, Michael Kosene 5) Alex Kosene, Sami Mustaklem, Gerry Kosene, Michael Kosene 6) Tom Grande, Arlene Grande, Brian Grande 7) Danielle Mullen, Hannah Mullen 8) Roger Singh, Ashlyn Singh, Pam Singh 9) Janelle Morrison, Mel McMahon 10) Krissy Oeff, Ami Susan Petrucelli 11) Kristianna Iliff, Susan Henthorn 12) Tasha Simons, Todd Simons 13) Kathy Pierle, Greg Sorvig
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MEALS ON WHEELS BINGO BASH

On November 10, Meals on Wheels hosted their 27th annual Bingo Bash at the East Event Centre in Carmel. “Back to the Future” was the theme of the event, and the more than 300 guests enjoyed bingo with cash prizes, a silent auction featuring three trips, and a “Heads and Tails” game with prizes including hotel stays, Colts and Pacers tickets, restaurant gift cards and more. The evening raised $123,000 for Meals on Wheels of Central Indiana’s financial assistance program for low-income clients.

Photographed by Emily Lewis 1) Doshia Stewart, Wanita Kumar, Tatiana Foroud, Marlene Marchesani 2) Gabe Cunningham, Kristin Cunningham 3) John Morningstar, Bethany Morningstar
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4) Brian Shaughnessy, Kathleen Shaughnessy 5) Brianaa Erpy, Syreta Thomas, Tamara Erpy 6) Karen Christensen, Margaret Wood, Jill Madinger, Cathi Wineland 7) Lindsay Buckley, Brittany Lane, Jennifer Purvis, Jana Desapio 8) Paul Gohmann, Lora Gohmann,Tim Plake, Jamie Johnson, Patrick Johnson, Julie Plake
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INDIANA BALLET CONSERVATORY

On December 15, parents, friends and staff of the Indiana Ballet Conservatory gathered for the annual Ballet Conservatory Holiday Party hosted by Chad and Marisol Buchanan.

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1) Michael Shultz,Kimann Schultz 2) Rich Rust, Missy Rust 3) Nader Afshar, Daria Afshar 4) Beth Warn, Brian Warn 5) Rick Griskie, Alyona Yakovleva 6) Chad Buchanan, Kaiti Rochford 7) Keith Hanzlik, Maria Hanzlik 8) Melissa King, Stacy Huntsman, Alyona Yakovleva, Jenny A. Bizzoco 9) Hector Rosa, Jenny A. Bizzoco, Deborah Katz Dorman, Elaine Mordoh 10) Hailey Kolker, Sergey Sergiev 11) Rick Griskie, Alyona Yakovleva, Marisol Buchanan, Chad Buchanan 7
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Photographed by Amy Pauszek

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