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Written by Annie Mosbaugh Knapp
Cami Mohler and Robbie Prather were engaged on June 9, 2023 in Chicago. Cami is originally from Celina, Ohio and Robbie is from Franklin, Indiana; their parents are Dancie and Chris Mohler and Cindy and Kerry Prather. Cami is the marketing coordinator at Redstory, while Robbie is an attorney at Bose, McKinney & Evans. The two met just prior to the world shutting down due to Covid, and while they both returned to their respective hometowns to quarantine, their daily text and phone conversations brought them close. Once things reopened, they enjoyed getting out and about,
attending concerts and sporting events in downtown Indianapolis, and trying new restaurants. Robbie organized the surprise proposal in one of their favorite cities, reserving a private dining room at the Chicago Chop House to ensure a romantic atmosphere. The couple had looked at rings, and Cami wanted a unique, yet traditionally elegant ring. A radiant-cut diamond from Reis-Nichols proved to be perfect, with a thin band designed to beautifully accentuate the stone. Their wedding will take place on August 10, 2024, at the Grand Hall at Union Station. sl
Taylor Thrift and Ryan Baer were married in March of 2023 in Todos Santos, Mexico, just outside of Cabo San Lucas. Their parents are Kathie and Terry Thrift and Kalyn and Brian Baer. Taylor is originally from San Antonio, Texas, while Ryan is from San Jose, California. Taylor works in strategic projects for Uber and Ryan is head of growth and operations for tech startup Swantide. The couple met on a dating app while living in Chicago, though they found that they worked for the same company and even worked on the same floor, but had never met. On the night he proposed, Ryan tricked Taylor into thinking they were going to a friend’s house to play games; instead, he had set up champagne and roses on the rooftop and proposed in
front of the Chicago skyline. The ring features a round–cut diamond belonging to Taylor’s late grandmother–Taylor’s parents gave the ring to Ryan when he told them of his plans to propose. While the ring held great sentimental value for Taylor, she admitted that a round-cut stone would not have been her first choice, and she was able to work with Reis-Nichols to design a complementary band more reflective of her personal style. Taylor ended up with an emerald-cut diamond infinity band that, together with the ring, truly make a statement. Their wedding in Mexico was a week-long celebration with 100 of the couple’s closest friends and family. They have relocated to Austin, Texas, where they will make their new home. sl
Written by Annie Mosbaugh Knapp / Photographed by Jose Alonso Photography
Sonia Nair of Chatham, Illinois and Jovanie Stewart of Cincinnati were engaged on April 8, 2023, on the rooftop of Chicago’s LondonHouse Hotel. Their parents are Sree and Devi Nair and Aurora and Lawrence Stewart. The couple reside in Chicago, where Sonia is a resident physician in her final year of family medicine training, and Jovanie is a senior information security analyst for Accenture. Jovanie surprised Sonia with the proposal on her birthday weekend, saying he’d made a cocktail reservation to celebrate her birthday at the LondonHouse rooftop, a place they’d long wanted to visit. She began to suspect something was up the day before, when Jovanie casually suggested she choose a neutral nail color for
her manicure instead of the “fun birthday nails” she planned to get. When they arrived at LondonHouse, a manager escorted them to an elevator that led to a private rooftop area known as the Cupola. There, they followed a path lined with rose petals to a table with a bottle of Dom Perignon and a ring box, and as Jovanie got down on one knee, Sonia realized what was happening and joyously said yes. Jovanie worked with Reis-Nichols to design the ring, based on others Sonia had admired, featuring an oval center stone surrounded by cluster stones, with a pave band. Says Sonia, “The ring truly represents the two of us and our love for each other.” The wedding will take place on March 21, 2025 at Fairlie, an events venue in Chicago. sl
Written by Annie Mosbaugh Knapp /
Bridget Anderson and Kevin Trinh, both of Carmel, Indiana, were engaged on December 31, 2020, in Chicago, with a wedding on July 7, 2023. Kevin proposed on the couple’s fifth anniversary of their first kiss, on the rooftop of the LondonHouse hotel in Chicago. Bridget had always wanted a vintage-inspired ring with a gold band, and Kevin was able to design the perfect ring with Bridget’s childhood friend Anna, who works for Reis-Nichols. Bridget and Kevin met as juniors at Indiana University when they attended a New Year’s Eve party thrown by a mutual friend.
Standing next to each other when the clock struck midnight, they serendipitously exchanged a New Year’s kiss that changed their lives forever. They were married in the middle of Chicago’s Lincoln Park, with their Australian shepherd, Bahn Mi, as flower girl; their reception featured unusual touches such as a couple’s trivia game and a voicemail guest book. Following the wedding, they honeymooned in Tahiti and Bora Bora. They reside in Chicago, where Bridget is a product sales executive and Kevin is a senior technology consultant. sl
Suzanne Ladson of Sacramento, California and Brian Kenny of Indianapolis were engaged in March of 2023. Their parents are Judy and Calvin Ladson and Douglas Kenny and Linda Nichols Kenny. Suzanne is a psychologist and Brian is a sales supervisor at Reis-Nichols Jewelers, specializing in luxury watches.The couple first met in August of 2021 in a chance encounter when both were visiting Lake Tahoe, and maintained a long-distance relationship for a year before Suzanne moved to Indianapolis. A year later, Brian surprised her with a proposal at their home in
front of her mother and childhood best friend, who were visiting from California. Although Suzanne suspected the proposal might be coming, the fact that she was wearing joggers and slippers for the big moment suggests she may have been caught offguard. The ring, a stunning oval solitaire, was carefully chosen by Brian and custom-designed by Reis-Nichols.The couple reside in the Kennedy-King neighborhood just north of downtown Indianapolis. Their wedding will take place in October 2023 at Tinker House events, within walking distance of their home. sl
Written by Annie Mosbaugh Knapp / Photographed by Danielle Harris Photography
Hannah Lily Fluhler and Perry Hovermale IV were married on May 20, 2023, in a sunset ceremony on the beach in St. John, followed by a reception with family and friends at the Artsgarden on July 8, 2023. Their parents are Dawn Brand and Stephen and Dana Fluhler, and Christy and Dean Warner and Dianne and Perry Hovermale III. Hannah is a neonatal nurse and Perry is a business owner. Family is very important to the couple. They met in Muncie, Indiana when they
were introduced by Hannah’s twin sister, and when Perry proposed with a stunning “aura” diamond at their favorite Muncie restaurant, he invited their families to celebrate (after Hannah said yes). At their reception, Perry’s grandmother recreated the wedding cake his greatgrandparents had at their wedding. Hannah and Perry enjoy European travel and running the mini-marathon, and look forward to moving into the dream home they are building in Yorktown, Indiana. sl
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Generosity–the act of “giving good things to others freely and abundantly”–is not a one size fits all. In many ways, generosity is as much a mindset and an attitude as it is an act. Giving can take many forms: money, possessions, time, attention, aid, encouragement, or emotional availability. When we are generous, we prioritize the needs of others, often above our own.
We now have evidence that humans are biologically hard-wired for generosity. Being intentionally generous activates reward pathways in our brain which may explain why giving and helping can feel so good, and further supports the idea that “prosocial” activity has important evolutionary advantages.
Perhaps on the surface, the value of being generous seems obvious. But we now know there are other, often unseen, benefits for those who give as well as for those who receive. Studies show that generous people tend to have better physical health, and performing small acts of kindness can actually lower blood pressure, much like medication or exercise can. Helping others is associated with greater life expectancy and less stress. Generous people report higher levels of optimism and happiness, a greater sense of selfworth, and tend to believe life is meaningful and satisfying. Further, they form better relationships, feel closer to others, have more friends, and find greater joy in their jobs.
In one notable study, researchers told participants they’d be receiving a certain sum of money. Half were asked to commit to spending the money on themselves, and half were asked to spend it on someone else. The researchers wanted to see whether simply pledging to be generous was enough to make people happier. They used equipment to measure activity in the regions of the brain associated with generosity, happiness, and decision-making, and
found that those who had agreed to spend money on other people tended to make more generous decisions in other ways as well, compared to those who had agreed to spend it on themselves. In other words, giving begets more giving. In fact, just committing to being generous leads to higher levels of happiness and more altruistic decision-making, according to this study.
If giving is something you’d like to commit to, here are four easy ways to start:
1. Share or give something that has meaning to you. Examples may include your time, talent, attention, influence, clothes and other possessions, or money. Giving away meaningful items will mean more to those who receive, knowing you enjoy and value those things.
2. Don’t expect anything in return. A core tenet of generosity is giving without an expectation of attention, recognition, praise, or even a thank-you. Simply knowing someone is better off because of your kind act is enough.
3. Embrace gratitude. Giving can generate a sense of pride and well-being by making a difference in the lives of others and creating a positive change in the world. It also helps foster deeper appreciation for what you have and less focus on what you don’t.
4. Support a cause you believe in. Find a charity or community that shares your passions and values and volunteer your time or make a financial donation. When you believe something is important, actions speak louder than words.
Generosity doesn’t happen by chance. Instead, it is an intentional decision we make to give. It is an attitude and approach to living that guides our actions and decisions, and from which the benefits persist long after the act itself. sl
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on the cover:
This living room by Sallie Lord of GreyHunt Interiors was inspired by an emerald green silk Valentino purse owned by the client.The designer transformed this formerly earthtoned room into a vibrant and classic space for entertaining; with its visual drama, it’s now the perfect conversation starter.
Designed by Sallie Lord, GreyHunt Interiors
Photographed by Stacie Zarin Goldberg
Produced by Charlotte Savafi
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By the time you read this, my wife and I will have dropped our first-born off at college. And as you might imagine, I am not ready. I’m the guy who cried as we left her at her dorm earlier this summer for a mere orientation, so the probability of me keeping it together when we drop her off for good is…nil. And my social media isn’t helping, with its montages of photos of our daughter through the years. I feel like her entire little-girl life has been played out for me on Facebook the last few months.
Of course, our daughter is ready. She’s our organized one, and has been packed for at least a week (however, organized as she is, she’s not much for logistics–she packed her own car, not the one we’re actually taking). Certainly, I’m grateful for the experiences and opportunities that await her, and secretly relieved that she’s only going a state away, not across the country. But that doesn’t make this any easier.
We got a taste of what life will be like when we visited her school for an overnight. Our daughter and her roommate met for the first time in person; the girls seemed like two peas in a pod, and immediately got on like fast friends. We saw the building where they’ll be living…the oldest residence hall on campus. I wonder how our daughter will adjust to spartan facilities; I’m sure she will, of course, but the hour-long bath she took upon arriving at our hotel after spending the night in the dorm spoke volumes. She did cheerfully point out, however, that she’ll be living across the street from a Chipotle. When God closes a door…
I’m also wondering how her younger brother will adjust to her absence–they’ve become even closer the last year or so since she got her license and has been driving him around. I know he’s going to miss his sister terribly, though I’m sure having the car she’s leaving behind will be a small consolation. Our dog will certainly be bereft; I wish there was a way we could tell her that our daughter will return, if only for school breaks and summers. Certainly, our house will feel different.
I’m grateful that our daughter has chosen a school where she can continue her Jesuit education. The school colors are the same as her high school’s, so she could even wear the same sweats (who am I kidding, that would negate a shopping opportunity). And I’m proud that she’s focused on her education. She told us when she began looking at colleges that she didn’t want to go to a big school or one with a party reputation, adding, “I’m not going to college to party, I’m going study and get my degree.” I believe her.
Her mother and I are excited to see our daughter embark on this new chapter, and we know that, like every family, we’ll adjust to this new normal. It’s a step toward the life that we’ve always dreamed of for her, and we’re looking forward to her many adventures ahead. Now, please excuse me while I go have a good cry.
Jeffrey Cohen jeff@slmag.net
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In September, the eyes of the interior design world collectively cast its discerning gaze on Paris for the Maison&Objet show and Paris Design Week. With Vivant, Vivants, which translates to 'alive, living' as the theme of the fourth edition of Paris Design Week and "quest of pleasures," the stated mission of Maison&Objet's fall edition, we're singling out a pair of designers who embody these concepts by marrying an adherence to time-honored techniques with forward-looking idealism.
Franco-Swedish and a École Nationale Supérieure d'Architecture de Paris-La Villette graduate, Bina Baitel is both an architect and a designer. Baitel's youth in the Middle East imbues her work with multiple influences, enabling her to explore the question of cultural interpenetration on formal, functional, and symbolic levels.
After founding her design and architecture studio in Paris in 2006, Baitel's creations have made their way into museums and international fairs (Milan, Dubai, Paris, New York, Venice, Basel) and
have been snatched up for public and private permanent collections. At Paris Design Week, she will unveil the Bina Baitel Collection, showcasing 30 pieces characterized by an invitation to contemplative and interactive experiences.
Baitel says that each piece, developed through proprietary manufacturing processes and technologies in collaboration with the finest artisans in Europe, “tells a story materialized through a dedicated plastic expression, generating new typologies of objects.” The designer prompts us to question our relationships and interactions with the things surrounding us while she explores their common codes to propose concepts with strong inspirations. Her innovations include a lamp made entirely of flesh-colored leather, an interactive circular wall light ringed with fur, a stool inspired by the world of haute joaillerie, and a sofa inspired by the fluidity of maritime landscapes. These highquality creations express the artist's embrace of a constant dialogue between traditional craftsmanship and innovative experimentation.
Parisian designers and artisans Franck Genser and Bina Baitel employ a transdisciplinary approach to bring elegant and exciting interiors to life.Architect and designer Bina Baitel.
Photo of Franck Genser by Vincent Leroux.
Furnishings from Bina Baitel’s new 30-piece collection.
Photo by Didier Delmas.
Fur-Light, by Bina Baitel is an interactive luminaire. Its sensitive fur, embedded with invisible sensors, reacts to the user's caresses to turn on and adjust the light as desired.
The PAD Lamp from Bina Baitel is made entirely of flesh-colored leather.
Photo by Florian Klein.
The Naïa sofa by Bina Baitel.
Photo by Stéphan Briolant
Since 2015, Franck Genser, an engineer-turned-entrepreneur, has turned out extraordinary pieces from his Paris atelier. Cabinetmaking, tapestry, art foundry, and alabaster work are among the skillsets he calls upon to breathe life into his sculptural pieces, combining exceptional craftsmanship with timeless elegance. As a Gestalt therapist (a form of psychotherapy that emphasizes personal responsibility and focuses on the individual's experience in the present moment), Genser says he remains fascinated by the essence of objects, their impact on individuals, and the constant interaction between humans and their environment.
At the heart of the Franck Genser workshop, the art of lacquer takes center stage, inspired by his extensive journeys and encounters with gifted artists. Among them, the revered lacquer master Nagatoshi Onishi profoundly impacted Franck Genser's work. Fueled by infinite patience and an unwavering quest for perfection, Onishi's influence is unmistakably evident in Genser's exquisite creations.Among these exceptional works, the Onishi coffee table is a testament to the rich legacy of Japanese vegetable lacquer. Painstakingly crafted using the Urusgi technique, the table undergoes more than 24 meticulous lacquering stages, each separated by precise sanding to achieve an impeccable finish. The result is a masterpiece that boasts sleek lines, sophistication, and a profound tribute to the art of Japanese lacquerwork.
Woodworking is another of Gesner's cherished traditions, bringing forth remarkable pieces that embody the essence of exceptional furniture. Under the skilled hands of master craftsmen,
rough wood transforms into exquisitely curved forms, reflecting the designer's vision. Merging the best of modernity and tradition, the iconic Décision chair, inspired by Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann, a French furniture designer and interior decorator who was one of the most influential figures in the Art Deco movement, balances two finely sculpted solid American walnut volumes with four elegantly designed legs.
An ongoing affinity for the delicate art of alabaster and Ruhlmann's legacy prompts Genser's team to hand-select some of these precious stones from the same deposit once mined by Ruhlmann in the 1920s. The workshop's Toutaime lamp enhances alabaster's natural transparency and facets while bathing interiors in a soft, diffused light.
The Piscine coffee table is a key piece in the atelier's table collection that demonstrates the workshop's skill in bronze with a whimsical touch. The table's ladder-like base is waxed brass, while the deep blue bronze tabletop is achieved through the hot patina technique.
Looking to the future by taking innovation to new heights, Gesner's studio is a pioneer in fusing traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. Engineers within the workshop focus on robotics projects, giving rise to imaginative creations, from touch-activated lamps to dome-shaped wall screens and even a serving droid for champagne glasses and bottles. Gesner says that these technical innovations, combined with human artistry and inspiration from his imagination, will continue to result in functional, artistic, and emotional furniture pieces. sl
Porsche Commemorates the 60th Anniversary of the 911 with the 911 S/T
Written by Andre James / Photography courtesy of Porsche Cars NA
Porsche is celebrating the 60th anniversary of the 911 with a special edition built for maximum driving enjoyment. With a limited run of 1,963 examples, the Porsche 911 S/T offers a lightweight design and a purist driving experience. An optional Heritage Design Package, which will appeal to Porsche collectors and those with an affinity for nostalgia, draws inspiration from the racing version of the 911 S from the late 1960s and early 1970s.
As the name identifies, the 911 S/T is the descendant of a particularly performance-focused version of the first 911 generation. From 1969, Porsche offered a special race version of the 911 S, internally called the 911 ST. Modifications to the chassis, wheels, engine, and body significantly improved acceleration, braking, traction, and cornering grip. Large spoilers and other aerodynamic aids were not yet used in these models. The new 911 S/T takes up the spirit of the original 911 S (ST) and transfers it to the current model generation.
Weighing in at just 3,056 pounds, this exclusive model, the lightest of the 992 generation, unites the strengths of the 911 GT3 with Touring Package and the 911 GT3 RS to deliver a unique combination of agility and driving dynamics. For the first time, it combines the naturally aspirated, 386 kW (525 PS) 4.0-liter high-revving boxer engine from the 911 GT3 RS with a manual gearbox and lightweight clutch. The compelling soundscape of the standard lightweight Sport Exhaust system heightens the exhilarating driving experience.
The 911 S/T's particularly nimble and agile handling, designed for maximum driving enjoyment on winding country roads, reflects a focus on GT and motorsport expertise. Unlike the 911 GT3 RS, the direction of the development of the 911 S/T has been not on track use but rather for journeys on public roads. Every steering
movement and every ounce of pressure on the accelerator or brake is implemented immediately and precisely. The 911 S/T is the only 911 of the current generation to combine a double-wishbone front-axle design with a multi-link rear axle without rear-axle steering.
Among other measures, the 911 S/T achieves its particularly agile and direct handling through consistent lightweight design. The hood, roof, front fenders, and doors, with their striking inlets, are made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), as are the rear axle anti-roll bar and shear panel (stiffening element on the rear axle).
Porsche also fits the anniversary model with magnesium wheels, the Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) system, a lithium-ion starter battery, and lightweight glass, all as standard.
A new exterior color, Shore Blue Metallic, and Ceramica wheel rim color are exclusive to the optional Heritage Design package. Upon request, a starting number from 0 to 99 and decorative foil can be applied to the doors. The classic-style Porsche crest from the original 911 that adorns the front, the center caps of the wheels, the steering wheel, the headrests, and the car key underscores the historical roots of the 911 S/T. The interior also features cloth seat centers in Classic Cognac with black pinstripes, which are another homage to heritage. Two-tone semi-aniline leather trim in Black/ Classic Cognac with extensive leather surrounds, a roof lining in perforated Dinamica, and other elements from Porsche Exclusive Manufacture round out the package. The Porsche logo and the 911 S/T model designation on the car's rear are in gold.
The new Porsche 911 S/T carries an MSRP of $290,000, excluding $1,650 for delivery, processing and handling. U.S. deliveries are expected to begin in Spring 2024. sl
Compiled by Bridget Williams
Kavant & Sharart Talay Wave Flow earrings ($3,260; kavantandsharart.com). 70s bangle from Jenna Blake ($23,200; jennablake.com). Pebbles
Compiled by Bridget Williams
MAREI New York Alexandria tassel earrings ($4,000; mareinewyork.com). Alison MacLeod Catkin Gossamer Web Earrings ($3,676; alisonmacleod.com). Nikos Koulis Jewels Together earrings (nikoskoulis.com). Reza Corne D’Abondance earrings ($256,000; worldofreza.com). Sia Taylor Sunrise earrings ($6,000 siataylor.com).
"If you want to really get away from it all where no one can find you, then you're heading to the right place," remarked my Uber driver as we set off from the terminal at the Savannah airport to the private embarkation dock on Hilton Head to catch one of 18 daily round-trip ferries to Daufuskie Island's Haig Point. A strict no phones policy inside the ferry boat for the duration of the 30-minute voyage helped ease me into a more chill state of mind and make my acquaintance with the first of many locals who were all quick to extol the benefits of living in the car-free development.
The architecturally unique array of homes, cottages, and townhomes within Haig Point (boasting some of the highest average home prices in South Carolina) are carefully positioned among 1,100 acres on Daufuskie Island, a mixture of waterfront, woods, and manicured golf greens that are bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, Caliboque Sound, and the Cooper River. From Haig Point's 150-year-old Lighthouse, you can spy Hilton Head's red-and-whitestriped Harbour Town Lighthouse (an eight-minute boat ride away).
With a fascinating history of human habitation dating back 9,000 years, the entirety of Daufuskie Island, whose name comes from the Muscogee language, meaning "sharp feather," has been named to the National Register of Historic Places. Spain claimed the Island in 1521 and enlisted the Native American population to fight off advances by the French and Scotts. Daufuskie's "Bloody
Point" is named after a trio of brutal battles between 1715-1717. Occupied by Union soldiers during the Civil War, the Gullah people (freed enslaved people) returned to work in the oyster and timber industries. The Gullah population of 2,000 dwindled to roughly 60 after the Island's economy gradually declined. Still, Daufuskie's remoteness allowed the language and customs of the Gullah people to remain well-preserved.
Since the beginning, Haig Point has been committed to the preservation of the Island's history. After purchasing the land in the 1980s, the original developers hired an archaeologist and historical architect to locate and restore sensitive sites. In conjunction with the Daufuskie Island Historical Foundation, in 2014, Haig Point, whose ownership was transferred to the members in 2001, restored a trio of former slave quarters dating back to the 1820s. Located near the ferry dock and the Strachan Mansion, a circa 1910 home barged to the site from St. Simon's Island in 1986, the ruins are a fine example of Tabby homes, a building material comprised of burned oyster shells, lime, sand, and water. Careful attention has also been given to preserving "Constitution Trees," massive twohundred-year-old Southern Live Oaks surrounding a fountain and dwarfing the 40-foot tower of the nearby Lighthouse. The tree's graceful, outstretched branches, festooned with resurrection ferns and Spanish moss, recall Charleston's famous Angel Oak.
Haig Point is easy to define by what's missing, and how that enhances life in the Lowcountry.
Haig Point's 150-year-old Lighthouse
The Strachan Mansion is a circa 1910 home that was barged to Haig Point from St. Simon's Island in 1986.
The Strachan Mansion is a hub of community life, with a coffee house, souvenir shop, a small grocery and meeting areas on the first floor and guest accommodations on the second floor. A large waterfront lawn with croquet and bocce areas is also a popular site for wedding receptions and special events. The Haig Point Club facilitates a strong sense of community, and homeowners are offered two levels of membership: the highest tier provides unlimited access to 29 holes of golf. Designed by Rees Jones, the 20-hole, par 72, 7,380-yard Signature Course has made Golf Magazine's list of "Top 100 in the World." For those new to the game or don't want to commit to a full day of play, the par 36 9-hole Osprey course is an ideal option.
Tennis pro Ron Gwyn provides regular clinics at the Haig Point Tennis and Pickleball Center, which has received an Outstanding Facility award from the USTA. Two of the six HarTru® courts are lighted, and the site plays host to the Daufuskie Island Adult Championships, featuring amateur play for men and women in both singles and doubles, with divisions for adults aged 35 and older.
Adjacent to the tennis center, a large fitness center overlooks a five-lane lap pool reserved for adults. The Beach Club at Calibogue Club, which overlooks the beaches of Calibogue Sound, is the site of a second family-oriented pool.
A private equestrian center with a 12-stall barn supported by an accomplished team of equestrians offers members every service from grooming and boarding to lessons and trail rides.
With no grocery store on the Island, I'd be tempted to rely on the culinary team at Haig Point's various dining options for sustenance. Sourcing locally from land and sea, the dining outlets offer everything from elevated Lowcountry fare to tried-and-true favorites to satisfy even the finickiest eater. Even though I was visiting solo, in the spirit of Southern hospitality, I never dined alone as current homeowners invited me to join them each meal. Everyone seemed genuinely interested in knowing what brought me to the Island and sharing the unique path to what drew them there.
However, even with all the human-made amenities, I quickly found that my favorites were those offered by Mother Nature. Early risers who take to traversing the one-mile-long Beach Road are rewarded with spectacular sunrises. Low tide provides DIY oyster harvesting and sand dollar gathering. Constant coastal breezes are ideal for kite flying.
Between 500-600 people live on Daufuskie Island full-time. Outside the gates of Haig Point lies a tight-knit and surprisingly rich and resourceful cultural community. Tour Daufuskie (tourdaufuskie.com) offers a guided History & Artisans tour led by an island resident, providing a historical overview and a fascinating
The Calibogue Club at dusk.
The Daufuskie Community Farm is committed to bringing sustainable and organic farming to the island.
insight into what it's like to live in a teeny, isolated town. We ogled the quirky artworks at Iron Fish Gallery & Studio (ironfishart.com), where customers pay on an “honor system” and learned how the beautiful natural indigo-dyed textiles are made at Daufuskie Blues (daufuskieblues.com), which operates out of the Maryfields School, made famous by Pat Conroy in his book, The Water is Wide Always keen to converse with a fellow Kentuckian, I hopped on a beachcruiser to visit Daufuskie Island Distillery (daufuskierum.com). Tony Chase, a long-time resident of the Bluegrass and a former pharmacist, perfectionist, and serial entrepreneur, retired to Haig Point with his wife Christy, only to "unretire" a few years later by opening a distillery on a 12.5acre site in 2015. Obsessed with quality and being as hyper-local as possible, the business launched with 54 barrels of rum and has since added flavored vodkas and rums, infused simple syrups and ready-to-drink cocktails. At the time of my visit, several barrels of bourbon were aging in the warehouse, created using a mashbill recipe shared by legendary distiller Lincoln Henderson. In a nod to Kentucky's claim that there are more barrels of bourbon aging than people, Chase remarked that he'll have a far easier time reaching that mark on Daufuskie, where bourbon ages differently due to the climate. "There's no cold season to stall the aging, so a four-year aged bourbon tastes like an eight-year," Chase explained.
Hugely successful from the get-go, Chase has added a food truck, serving as many as 200 "smash burgers" on their busiest days. For the high-octane entrepreneur who has owned 61 different companies, Daufuskie's business environment is a horse of a different color. Staffing and affordable housing remain a constant struggle, so he's establishing a nonprofit dedicated to building and renting affordable housing for Island workers. "Daufuskie is black or white, which you either love or hate," Chase said. "I've definitely learned to be a little more laid back."
On my way back to the airport after my stay at Haig Point's Strachan Mansion, I shared the ferry with a group of teens heading to school on the mainland. Typically, when I come across a pack of kids this age, they all have their heads buried in their phones, but here, where it's not allowed, some chatted and laughed with youthful exuberance, others found a quiet corner to read; and, procrastinators after my own heart found a space to spread out and frantically work to finish up homework. It was a refreshing change of pace that recalled a line from Haig Point's marketing material: "It is not an escape from life, but a deeper immersion into it." sl
Non-members wanting to experience the Haig Point homeowner lifestyle can register for the Daufuskie Island Marathon on January 13th, 2024; the annual Haig Point Foundation Golf Tournament in the spring; or book a Discovery Visit at haigpoint.com/discovery-visits/.
For two decades, The Iron Fish Gallery has operated on an honor system with customers signing in, noting the piece they took and whether payment was left in the honor box or if they want a call to pay via credit card.
A horse at Haig Point's private equestrian center.
Compiled by Victoria Chase
Using narration adapted from Davis’ own words and a unique undulating visual style that reflects Davis’ constant musical changes, this graphic novel follows Davis through four decades of musical innovation centered around his quest to find a mysterious sound he heard on a moonlit country road as a child. Dave Chisholm (author & illustrator) — Miles Davis and the Search for the Sound, hardcover, 150 pages, Z2 Comics (available September 26)
Rick Rubin, a nine-time GRAMMYwinning producer, named one of the 100 most influential people in the world by Time and the most successful producer in any genre by Rolling Stone, shares the path of the artists as a road we can all follow. “I set out to write a book about what to do to make a great work of art. Instead, it revealed itself as a book on how to be,” says Rubin. Rick Rubin—The Creative Act: A Way of Being—hardcover, 432 pages Penguin Press
Bobby Berk, a design expert and Emmynominated TV host of Netflix’s Queer Eye, shows you how designing your space, no matter what size home you have, has an immediate, visceral, and undeniable impact. Bobby Berk — Right at Home: How Good Design is Good for the Mind — hardcover, 304 pages, Clarkson Potter (available September 12)
From ancient castles to sturdy Georgian manors and modest farmhouses, the rich history of the 15 homes featured here offers a unique insight into the Irish temperament and an exploration of a style of decoration that, while adapted to meet 21st-century demands, still retains historical integrity. Robert O’Byrne—Romantic Irish Homes— hardcover, 176 pages, CICO Books
A look at thoughtfully matched, excessive, but on-point, more-is-better spaces worldwide and the passionate creators behind them. Living to the Max: Opulent Homes and Maximalist Interiors—hardcover, 256 pages, gestalten; us.gestalten.com.
As the first-ever account of how the Popes’ presence has shaped the history of Rome, this book illuminates the lives of the men who have sat on the throne of Saint Peter, alongside the bold and curious actions of the men, women, and children who have shaped the city with them, from antiquity to today. Jessica Wärnberg—City of Echoes: A New History of Rome, Its Popes, and Its People—hardcover, 448 pages, Pegasus Books (available September 5)
Looking to literature, film, architecture, and art history, artist Noah Davis, who died from cancer in 2015 at 32, permeated his paintings with emotion and imagination. This book delves into the Los Angeles-based artist and activist’s impact and legacy. Noah Davis, Helen Molesworth, Franklin Sirmans, Lindsay Charlwood, Thomas J. Lax, Glenn Ligon, Julie Mehretu, and Fred Moten—Noah Davis: In Detail —hardcover, 208 pages, David Zwirner Books (Available September 12)
A celebration of German home baking from Jürgen Krauss called "possibly the best-loved contestant in Great British Baking Show history." A self-taught baker, Jürgen draws on the flavors, techniques, and memories from his childhood, his European travels, and his wife's Jewish heritage to create this collection of authentic German baking recipes. Jürgen Krauss—The German Baking Book: Cakes, Tarts, Breads, and More from the Black Forest and Beyond— hardcover, 208 pages, Weldon Owen
This book is a vivid chronicle of a couple’s four-year, 40k journey across several countries and continents via bicycle. Olivier Van Herck & Zoë Agasi—Leaving the Comfort Zone: The Adventure of a Lifetime—hardcover, 320 pages, gestalten; us.gestalten.com.
Recreate recipes from the hit series as prepared by "Gator," the on-set caterer for the Paramount Network show's cast and crew since season one. Gabriel "Gator" Guilbeau—Yellowstone: The Official Dutton Ranch Family Cookbook—hardcover, 176 pages, Insight Editions (available on September 12)
'li' o 'taph, [bib-lee-uhtaf, -tahf]: a person who caches or
After exhausting my arsenal of automotive knowledge in conversation with Roger Ormisher, Vice President of Communications and PR for McLaren in The Americas, at an exquisite lunch at Aperture Cellars served on a table embellished with bright orange flowers that recalled the head-turning McLaren Artura parked nearby, our table topic took a philosophical turn. Roger asked me and my tablemates if our minds would be at ease if today were our last. Had we gotten everything out of life we wanted up to this point? It was a poignant reminder of why moments matter. Just an hour before, I was behind the wheel of an Silica White Artura, enjoying a windows-down driving experience that allowed the intoxicating scents of redwood and sea air to commingle, feeling the pulse-quickening acceleration, and noticing how certain exhaust notes made the hair at the back of my neck stand on end. It was one of the rare instances where I enjoyed being fully present to live in the moment. And, though I'm not quite ready to punch out on my life's time clock, a lifelong chase after carpe diem, which on this day included thoroughly testing the Artura's cornering capabilities, means that, like my delicious lunch that day, nothing is left on the table.
While I would have accepted an offer to pilot the Artura down my street, given the opportunity to do so through the varied terrain of California's Sonoma County, starting from the Montage in Healdsburg was a no-brainer. The evening before our drive, we took a deep dive into the McLaren culture during an alfresco dinner at
the Montage. As the last rays of sunlight cast a golden hue on the vineyards weaving through the luxury wine country hideaway, an A-list team of Ormisher, Nicolas Brown, President of McLaren Americas, Jo Lewis, McLaren's Head of Color and Materials Design, and Nolan Gray, Product Pricing and Fleet Specialist, shared the story of the world's last independent small volume manufacturer of high-performance vehicles.
"Motorsports are the core of our DNA," explained Brown. He went on to illuminate how the Artura, McLaren's first-ever seriesproduction High-Performance Hybrid (HPH) supercar, represents the distillation of more than a half-century of McLaren's expertise and experience in race- and road-car engineering. Artura, the name for this "clean sheet" design, comes from combining "art" and "future."
Extremely lightweight even with the battery, McLaren engineers employed a 'form-follows-function' design philosophy in devising the all-new McLaren Carbon Lightweight Architecture (MCLA), uniquely optimized for HPH powertrains and built in-house. A single MCLA tub is strong enough to withstand the weight of 15 Arturas stacked on top of it. Audiophiles will appreciate the tubmounted subwoofer's clean, crisp sound free of vibrations. Sexy and supercar go hand-in-hand, and the exterior's super-formed aluminum panels perform like Spanx in accentuating Artura's sinuous curves with a functional 'shrink-wrapped' look.
A pair of Arturas parked outside Aperture Cellars A dinner party celebrating Artura at Montage HealdsburgDesigned around the driver, "it's all about having fun behind the wheel at any speed," remarked Brown. And, with an all-new twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 petrol engine with an E-motor and energy-dense battery pack, producing combined outputs of 671bhp and 530lb-ft, there's plenty of fun to be had. Rather than just becoming a garage trophy, McLaren owners put three times more miles on their supercars than other top-tier manufacturers in this realm.
A mandate to cut weight without cutting corners resulted in several innovations, including a first-to-market domain-based ethernet electrical architecture that's twenty-five percent lighter and allows for over-the-air updates. Not only are the Pirelli P ZERO™ CORSA tires extra grippy, but their innovative Pirelli Cyber Tyre® technology allows for real-time data collection resulting in improved handling.
While all the engineering and performance aspects are undoubtedly important and exciting, if the package isn't captivating, then it's all for naught. That's where Jo Lewis comes in. A master’s graduate of the Royal College of Art specializing
in textiles and technology, Lewis worked for Stella McCartney before moving to the automotive industry. Her involvement with Artura stretches back to 2016. "Design is cross-functional with engineering," explained Lewis, who added that McLaren's small volume means that customers get closer contact with corporate in the bespoke realm via McLaren Special Operations.
Applying NASA-level knowledge to her craft, Lewis’ portfolio of innovations is quite impressive. A newly developed method for leather interiors leans on her aerospace experience to deliver thirty-percent weight savings. She's devised ways to make cashmere applicable in an automotive setting, taking advantage of its wicking abilities. "Slip and grip" embossing in key touchpoints makes getting in and out of a McLaren easier. Ultrafabric, derived from the yachting sector, is durable, lightweight, and weather-resistant. If seeing your name in lights is insufficient, Lewis has found ways to weave it into your carbon fiber dashboard (even using 24-karat gold). Available contour paint jobs highlight the Artura's aerodynamics akin to contouring cheekbones with bronzer.
Chef Jamil Peden during lunch at Aperture Cellars
Fog shrouded the Healdsburg hillsides on the morning of my drive. Nolan Gray escorted me to my Silica White Artura with a sumptuous all Alcantara interior, including the steering wheel, making it feel so luxurious in my hands. The scissor doors opened effortlessly, and a single finger provided enough force for closing. I sank into the Clubsport bucket seat, and at the push of a button, the Artura started in EV mode, and I set off like a silent assassin buzzing through the vineyards.
Knowing that 0-60mph straight-line acceleration is achievable in 3.0 seconds, I anxiously looked for a wide-open straightaway to switch the powertrain mode into Track to test the stat. As soon as I pressed the accelerator, the back of my head pressed into the seat, prompting me to yell "woohoo!" out of the open windows. In the interest of safety (and not wanting to go to jail!) I resisted finding out if sprinting 0–186mph takes a reported 21.5 seconds, so I'll have to take McLaren's word for it.
Throughout my roughly 50-mile journey over varied terrain, I switched between Artura's four powertrain modes: E-mode,
Comfort, Sport, and Track. Artura can drive up to 11 miles on battery power alone, and when I found I'd nearly exhausted its EV range, I switched to Sport mode to replenish the battery. I became giddy when a "Curves Ahead" road sign popped up, knowing that I'd be able to hug them as tightly as an old friend. At the halfway point, our driving group convened at The Birds Café in Bodega Bay, and our tricked-out Arturas in hues ranging from lowkey to lookat-me created quite a stir. "I guess I'm a car girl now!" exclaimed one of my colleagues from New York City, who said she "didn't get car people" until she got acquainted with Artura.
Truth be told, no one needs to own a McLaren, but at the end of the day, getting from point A to B is entirely more exhilarating for those wanting to squeeze every last drop out of life.
Artura is priced from $233,000 for the standard specification. Every McLaren Artura comes as standard with a five-year vehicle warranty, a six-year battery warranty and a 10-year body perforation corrosion warranty. More information is available at https://cars.mclaren.com/en/artura. sl
Written by Claire Williams
While he doesn't have a flickering cigarette sticking out of his mouth and isn't sporting a marinière, (the classic French striped shirt), Jérôme Peter does embody the essence of a true Frenchman and wine aficionado. With family hailing from Corsica and Alsace, Jerome's upbringing educated his palette with tastings from acidic Rieslings to crisp Rosés. In his 20s, an internship in the wine industry with his stepfather in the mid-90s allowed Peter to take a deep dive into wines of the world, meeting winemakers and discovering varietals from South America to China. In the process, he found a new love and passion for wine. Peter equates the feeling of finding a wine you love to "clicking" with a newfound love interest, saying, "When you know, you know that there's an instant chemistry."
After his stepfather's passing just a few years later, Peter decided to honor the man who introduced him to his newfound amour by embarking on what would turn out to be a lengthy career in the wine world.
Like a faithful partner, he has spent over 20 years working in the wine industry for Carrefour, the eighth-largest retailer in the world by revenue, following trends and selecting wine for its outlets year after year. Peter says his tenure is long enough that he was there when premium bag-in-box wine was a foreign concept and continues with him navigating the current biodynamic revolution. Peter's longevity in the French wine trade has made his name uttered in the same breath as renowned stars of the industry he frequents, such as winemaker Gérard Bertrand (well known for his collaboration on Hampton Water Rosé with Bon Jovi) and
sommelier Gérard Margeon. Over the past two decades, Peter has encountered specific wines that have stood the test of time to remain among his favorites in a market where tastes, flavors, and trends evolve more rapidly than we realize.
Peter says that for him, tasting wine is a spiritual experience, something he calls "tasting the blood of the land," with each bottle bringing out a different emotion while telling the story of the winemaker and the terroir. Peter says Salvador Dali said it best with his maxim, "The connoisseur does not drink wine but tastes its secrets." Peter will take hours to make sure his roti de porc is the perfect complement to his bottle, not the other way around (and if there's no wine on the table, he says it's not a meal).
As a youthful wine drinker, Peter gravitated towards bold and fruity wines and still enjoys them today. Gérard Bertrand's Cigalus wine from Pays d'Oc (the southern coast of France) is a wine he says everyone likes. It comes from a region with plenty of sunshine, and the wine boasts a balance of ripe black fruit such as blackberries, black cherries, and plums with grilled spice and toasted oak, imparting flavor that even the most stubborn wine drinker will enjoy.
Made from Gamay grapes, Henry Marionnet's Tourraine Gamay 1ère Vendange (hailing from the Loire Valley region) is a lesser-known variety that is the cousin of pinot noir and with whom it shares similar tasting notes. Peter says he opens a bottle almost every evening at dinner with his wife, and it's worth noting the wine contains no sulfites, which, according to some reports, should give you less of a hangover and headaches after drinking, hence the easy drinking quality of the wine.
French wine connoisseur Jérôme Peter shares a few of his favorites.
For those more inclined to white wines, Peter enjoys Domaine Grist's Cotes d'Auxerre Chardonnay, sharing the taste of Burgundy without breaking the bank. It's a toasty wine with ripe fruits that pairs well with chicken and seafood, and if you're feeling like embracing the art de vivre of the French, foie gras. “A tremendous value for the price, finishing with pleasure and soul,” remarks Peter.
If you're lucky enough to get your hands on a bottle, one of Peter's favorite big, sunny, and fruity wines is from critically acclaimed Domaine Peyre Rose. Marlène Soria founded the estate in the late 1990s in the village of Saint-Pargoire in the south of France, where her plan to make wine for herself and friends resulted in international success and even attention from Robert Parker. Peter says the small size of their operation means they only produce around 30,000 bottles a year, and they age them for up to a decade to let each bottle reach its full potential before they're sold. Peter still has a bottle of 2003 in his cellar, and he describes the flavor as "bold and balsamic."
For those looking for something other than a fruit-forward wine, Peter recommends Chateau Rayas, started by the godfather of Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Jacques Reynaud; their wines are some of the most sought-after in the region. The wines are aromatic and complex, and Peter singles out their herbaceous character.
Moving outside of France, Peter gravitates to Italian wines. Among his favorites is an expressive Castello Banfi Brunello di Montalcino that's intense with ripe red fruit combined with more complex notes of licorice and pipe tobacco.
To finish his evening on a sweet note, Peter enjoys the awardwinning Château la Varière's Bonnezeaux, Les Melleresses, a sweet
wine that combines citrus fruits, sweet spices and tropical fruits. And when it comes to bubbly, Peter says you can't go wrong with the classics: Krug champagne delivers rich and layered baked bread and brioche notes, while one of his other favorites, Taittinger Champagne, has ripe fruit, honey, and brioche aromas but is rich and creamy on the palate. During his career, Peter has been lucky enough to drink all the terroirs of France and even some of the rarest, such as Romanée Conti, which he says you should not pass up if given the opportunity to taste it. Not averse to change, Peter constantly discovers new wines to add to his favorites list. As the climate, trends, and even our palates evolve, there's a never-ending list of wines to choose from, and there are always new gems to unearth. sl
Jérôme’s Cellar Standouts
• Gerard Bertrand Cigalus Pays d’Oc
• Henry Marionnet’s Tourraine Gamay Première Vendange
• Goisot Côtes d'Auxerre
• Domaine Peyre Rosè Languedoc Roussillon
• Château Rayas Châteauneuf-du-Pape
• Sauternes Château d'Yquem 1989
• Grange des Péres Languedoc Aniane Vin de Pays
• Domaine LeFlaive Puligny-Montrachet
• Domaine Jean-François Ganevat, Jura
• Taittinger Champagne
• Krug Champagne
• Château la Varière Bonnezeaux Les Melleresses
• Brunello di Montalcino Castello Banfi
Leprechaun lore aside, I've always found Ireland to be enchanting, particularly the myriad green hillsides of the rural countryside that stand in contrast to skies that are shrouded in clouds roughly half of the time, and which make the occasional pop of sunshine seem all the more magical.
My Irish eyes were smiling during my most recent visit, which began with a whirlwind two nights in Dublin at The Merrion Hotel (merrionhotel.com), followed by another three at Sheen Falls Lodge (sheenfallslodge.ie), situated along the famed Wild Atlantic Way. But honestly, how could I not love a place where, after introducing myself, the locals are quick to remind me that my name is indicative of a strong woman and the name of one of three of the country's national saints?
Located in an upscale neighborhood steps from the National Gallery, The National Museum of Ireland, and the "golden mile" around St. Stephen's Green, the five-star The Merrion represents a triumph of thoughtful historic preservation. The hotel comprises four Georgian townhouses, the oldest dating to the era when American Colonists were busy tossing tea into the Boston Harbor. The two-year restoration commenced in the mid-1990s, resulting in interiors that mirror the handsome exterior: elegantly understated and dignified.
The present owners claim one of the largest collections of 18th and 19th-century art in Ireland and generously share it with hotel guests in public and private spaces. Art enthusiasts will want to avail themselves of a self-guided audio tour and partake of a whimsical afternoon Art Tea, in which the accomplished pastry chefs create edible works of art inspired by works in the hotel's collection.
The wings of the hotel envelope a beautifully landscaped garden with water features and a glass-enclosed walkway leading from the historic structures to the modern wing, which includes a large spa complex with an indoor pool. Accordion doors along one wall of the aptly named Garden Terrace restaurant bring the outdoors in; the elevated environs draw in stylish local "ladies who lunch" like bees to the hives on The Merrion's rooftop.
The labyrinth-like cellar bar is housed in the property's original wine cellar, offering plenty of cozy nooks for a candlelight dinner. Waterfall-inspired stained-glass windows, an homage to the cascades dotting the famed Ring of Kerry, are inset among the thick stone walls. In a city with no shortage of pubs, this watering hole is popular with locals who come to imbibe its two bespoke ales, lemon gin, and listen to traditional Irish music on Thursday evenings.
When the calendar flips to March, everyone purports to be Irish, a claim that's partially attributable to the fact that some 10 million Irish have left their homeland since the 1800s. It's mind-boggling that today, 70 million people claim Irish heritage, more than ten times the country's total population, which makes ancestry tourism a big deal. Dublin's subterranean Epic Museum (epicchq.com), the world's first fully digital museum, traces 1,500 years of Irish immigration, including the accomplishments of some of its most famous (and infamous) sons and daughters, who I was surprised to learn include Che Guevara, Muhammad Ali, Gene Kelly, Walt Disney, Tom Cruise, Robert DeNiro, and Barack and Michelle Obama, among many others.
A City-to-Countryside Tour of the Emerald Isle
The Garden Terrace Restaurant at The Merrion
French chocolatier Benoit Lorge at his eponymous shop in Kenmare.
Accessible only by ferry, the 37-acre Garnish Island in Bantry Bay boasts extensive gardens with several unique structures.
A feast of locally sourced Kenmare delicacies at Heidi Ryan's Wholesome Food, organize.d by Kenmare Foodie Tours.
Dublin is a great town for wandering. If you're a James Joyce fan, you must stop into Sweney's Pharmacy (sweny.ie), whose lemon soap is famously featured in Ulysses (and still available for purchase today). With disheveled gray hair that calls to mind Einstein's coif and a silk tie peeking out from his down jacket that lends the air of eccentric aristocrat, owner and polyglot J.J. Murphy preserves the tiny shop as it appeared in Joyce's time. Smelling of stale tobacco and dusty old books, Murphy is quick to pick up his guitar to serenade visitors and invited us to return for a scheduled reading of Joyce's works.
If music history gets your heart racing, you'll want to arrange a tour of Windmill Lane Studios (windmilllanerecording.com). Rather nondescript from the outside, Brian Masterson and James Morris opened it in 1978, and it remains one of Ireland's largest recording studios. U2 was famously the first Irish band to record there, becoming part of a motley mix of bands and artists that includes Simple Minds, Kate Bush, AC/DC, Hozier, The Spice Girls, Kylie Minogue, Niall Horan, Lewis Capaldi, Van Morrison, and Ed Sheeran. Their studio tour allows you to mix a session with their virtual band and receive the MP3 file as a one-of-a-kind souvenir or, in my case, a painful reminder that even though I love to sing, I can't carry a tune.
No visit to the capital of the Republic of Ireland would be complete without a pub tour. During ours, led by Perfect Pint Tour (theperfectpinttour.com), we visited both well-known and local's only watering holes and learned all about the letters and numbers
found on a Guinness pint glass; that a good Irishman (or woman) finishes a pint in seven sips or less; and, that foamy rings from topto-bottom evidence a perfect pour. We even went behind the bar to learn from time-tested pint perfectionists who seem to eschew any interest in crafty cocktails.
The concierge at The Merrion can arrange a guided hike along the Cliff Path Loop that follows the contours of the wildflowercovered cliffs of the Howth Peninsula, just east of central Dublin. Ideal for a day trip; even though it's just a short drive from the bustling city, it feels worlds away.
After a few days exploring Dublin, we hit the M7 to Sheen Falls Lodge in County Kerry. En route, we enjoyed a thoroughly entertaining rest stop at the Barack Obama Plaza, located next to the village of Moneygall. Essentially a fast-food-laden truck stop, a small second-floor museum highlighting US Presidents with Irish heritage is surprisingly well executed.
Sheen Falls Lodge, nestled amid the gently undulating landscape next to its namesake falls and overlooking Kenmare Bay, was built in 1765 as a private country house and debuted as a 72-room resort in 1991. Later additions to the original structure kept the same Irish plaster exterior and steeply pitched roof as the original home, which belies its grandiose scale, including a large Easanna Spa wing with a massive indoor pool. Spa treatments incorporate VOYA products, made with sustainably-harvested wild seaweed from Ireland's west coast.
All the guest rooms at this rural retreat, a Relais & Chateaux property, provide a view of the falls, Kenmare Bay, or both. Lodge guests are privy to 15 miles of private fishing on the river, and Sheen Falls has a strong commitment to conservation, ensuring that the native Wild Atlantic salmon who have inhabited these waters since the last Ice Age will continue to do so for generations to come.
Not wanting to squander a moment of the views afforded by the large terrace of my sprawling Signature Suite, I indulged in an elegantly presented alfresco breakfast each morning, allowing the soothing sounds of the falls to have my full attention. In addition to nine distinct room types, the property boasts a trio of storybook thatched roof cottages and a pair of bayfront villas for rent, each beautifully, uniquely, and luxuriously outfitted.
In addition to fishing, Sheen Falls offers scores of activities such as horseback riding, tennis, bike riding, sporting clays, guided walks and hiking, archery, kayaking and paddleboarding, golf, photography excursions, and falconry. Liam Regan, a licensed falconer and wildlife biologist from Killarney leads the falconry program. His calm demeanor makes even the most reluctant ornithologist comfortable as he demonstrates the skills of the forest's apex predators.
Dining options on the property include the newly opened Stables Brasserie & Bar, housed in the property's original horse stables. Casually elegant, it's quickly become a favorite of locals from the nearby town of Kenmare. The Falls offers a more elevated dinner experience. A recent addition is the Mediterranean-influenced Nua Vista Restaurant, located at the Lodge's sister property, Ring of Kerry Golf Club (ringofkerrygolf.com). For a more bespoke experience, private dining is available in several unique spaces, including the candlelit wine cellar, one of the largest private cellars in Ireland. Take advantage of a G&T in the cozy Sheen Bar, made with seacentric gin custom-blended by the nearby Isle of Barra Distillers specifically for Sheen Falls Lodge.
Sheen Falls has a symbiotic relationship with the quaint town of Kenmare. A local artist created the whimsical mural behind the reception desk; local products are among the gratis goodies in the minibar; the stoneware coffee set hails from Killarney; and a local wine shop selects the Lodge's wine of the month. Kenmare locals, a surprisingly cosmopolitan bunch for a city of just 2,300 residents, are proud that their village was awarded a gold medal in the 2022 TidyTown annual nationwide competition.
Liam Regan, a licensed falconer and wildlife biologist from Killarney leads the falconry program at Sheen Falls.
The Oscar Wilde monument in Dubin’s Merrion Square Park.
At Sweney's Pharmacy, made famous by James Joyce, proprietor J.J. Murphy is keen on entertaining visitors with a song.
We enjoyed a half-day walking tour led by Kenmare Foodie Tours (kenmarefoodies.com), during which we sampled authentic French pastries at Maison Gourmet (maisongourmetkenmare. com), where the husband-and-wife owners hail from the Pyrenees; farmhouse cheese and charcuterie at Heidi Ryan's Wholesome Food, and award-winning, handmade chocolates from Lorge Chocolatier (lorge.ie), whose affable owner Benoit, a native of France, moved to Kenmare twenty-five years ago. Those with an adventurous spirit or just a fondness for craft beer will want to stop for a pint at the Tom Crean Brewery (tomcreanbrewerykenmare.ie). Another husbandand-wife enterprise, the duo are as passionate about their craft as they are about exploring the far corners of the globe. "We aim to produce a pint that doesn't cost the earth," explained Bill Sheppard, a former fireman from England who met his wife Aileen Crean O’Brien, a Kenmare native, while traveling in Goa, India. The couple worked with Dutch scientists to build a biodigester that converts the spent grain from distilling into high-protein silage to feed sheep. While sipping a St. Bridget Irish Lager, I learned that the patron saint was a brewer and several of the miracles attributed to her involved beer.
Garden enthusiasts should plan to visit Garinish Island (garinishisland.ie), accessible by ferry in the sheltered harbor of
Glengarriff in Bantry Bay, where languid seals blend in with rocky outcroppings. John Annan Bryce purchased the 37-acre island, which boasts a unique micro-climate, from the War Office in 1910 and tasked Harold Peto to execute extensive gardens with structures that include a clock tower, Grecian temple, Italian casita, and a Martello tower that dates to the Napoleonic Wars. Today the parklands are maintained by the Office of Public Works. After the tour, drive along the breathtakingly beautiful Healy Pass in the Beara Peninsula, dotted with solitary sheep whose wool bears colorful dots indicating its ownership, before stopping for super-fresh seafood lunch with the locals at Helen's Bar in Kilmackillogue Harbor.
Marveling at the moodiness of the Emerald Isle's landscape always evokes introspection for me. In-between songs at Sweney's Pharmacy in Dublin, Mr. Murphy recited a quote attributed to G.K. Chesterton: "The great Gaels of Ireland are the men that God made mad, for all their wars are merry, and all their songs are sad."
I'd argue that the scenery, well suited to wide panoramic shots that beg for a dramatic orchestral accompaniment, is more winsome than weary, particularly when combined with Ireland's enduring culture of hospitality consistent from city to countryside. sl
A suite at Sheen Falls Lodge
The lobby at Sheen Falls Lodge
A tour of Kenmare in Sheen Falls’ 1936 Buick is a popular among guests.
($120) and printed skort ($95; fila.com). Vinglacé limited edition pickleball wine set in white ($149.95; vinglace.com). Anyone for Tennis biscuit box from Biscuiteers ($58; biscuiteers.com). Palissade bench from Hay ($1,045; us.hay.com). Spinshot player Pickleball machine (from $1,979; spinshotsports.com).
There are many reasons to visit New York City, and I have two: Amateur Night at the Apollo and Central Park. For my most recent sojourn, which included a stay at The Lowell (lowellhotel.com), I couldn't have gotten much closer to Central Park than if I pitched a tent under one of its 18,000 trees. And, if perks rather than parks are more your thing, you're a Birkin's-throw away from Hermès' Madison Avenue flagship. Walk just a little further for an actual breakfast at Tiffany’s at Daniel Boulud’s Blue Box Café on the fourth floor of the exquisitely renovated Landmark building on Fifth Avenue, which reopened to great fanfare this past April. Waiting to be discovered among its ten floors are a high jewelry workshop and an Audrey experience, where you can marvel at how teeny tiny Ms. Hepburn’s waist had to be to fit into that iconic Givenchy gown.
Nestled on a tony tree-lined Upper East Side block dotted with brownstones and offering the chance to rub elbows with neighbors counted among the world's wealthiest (a nearby ninebedroom townhouse was on the market for $28 million), the Lowell, one of the last privately owned hotels, was practicing stealth wealth long before it became a buzzword.
Stepping down into a small marble-floored vestibule that provides access to the chic Jacques Bar on the left and the hotel's reception room on the right, we were immediately entranced by the aroma of fresh flowers. Purpose-built as a 17-story hotel that opened
in 1927, notable features of the 74-room property include rooms with wood-burning fireplaces and furnished terraces, a rarity among NYC hotels. The Lowell's most recent $25 million renovation, overseen by current owner Dina De Luca Chartouni, and unveiled in 2017, cemented its consistent placement atop major travel magazines' lists of the world's best hotels.
Los Angeles-based interior designer Michael S. Smith devised the property's eclectic interior design scheme, imparting a uniqueness that looks like it was collected over time. Though it is as impeccably and elegantly outfitted as the rest of the property, guests generally don't linger long in the small lobby, preferring instead to seek repose in large and luxurious guest rooms and suites boasting loads of natural light and upscale amenities, including Chartouni’s own DDC28 bath amenities. The hotel’s residential feel made it fun to ponder living in the city for a hot second.
The army of attendants at the front desk projected the care and confidence of a team that's been at the helm for decades. The casual mention of a birthday resulted in the prompt delivery of a lovely card, a bottle of Cava, and a glass jar of colorful macaroons.
By and large, rooms at The Lowell are as much as 100 square feet larger than venerable peers like The Carlyle and The Pierre. Our 15th-floor suite boasted a separate living room with plush upholstery and an abundance of windows to admire the view of neighboring rooftop gardens, a Carrera-clad bathroom with a separate tub and
Written by Bridget Williams
The Lowell makes it easy to take a juicy bite from The Big Apple’s best offerings.
shower, and an elegantly understated bedroom so quiet that each morning, we remarked that for the first time, the sounds of the city didn't suspend our slumber. Not having read a physical newspaper in years, I looked forward to the daily doorknob delivery of the New York Times and the luxury of time and comfort to engage in an activity that felt akin to firing up a record player.
Throughout our stay, I gravitated to the first-floor Club Room at the rear of the property, which is reserved exclusively for guests. Deftly toeing the boundary where gilt and mirrors traipse from gobsmacking to gaudy, I relished concocting my vision of who'd live in such a place. Classic design elements culled from Greek and Roman influence spoke to someone well-versed in history; a plethora of coffee table books hinted at continuous curiosity; art spanning the centuries signaled an openness to beauty in all forms; and a series of photographs of Marilyn Monroe surmounting a pair of leopard-print upholstered slipper chairs added just a touch cheekiness to indicate someone who didn't take themselves too seriously.
It's always a treat when I can share something new with friends who live in the city, and it was fun to invite them for a private apéro in our temporary haven. "How did we not know about this gem?" they exclaimed while surveying the space.
Arched French doors at the rear of the Club Room provide a view into the glass-ceiling orangery at Majorelle, The Lowell's elegant French/Mediterranean restaurant. Resplendent with a groin vault
ceiling accentuated by French Art Deco pendant chandeliers and a graphic black-and-white marble floor, the space is punctuated by monumental and fragrant floral arrangements.
The lobby's grand marble staircase leads to the Pembroke Room, another of NYC's best-kept secrets. In this opulent, Europeaninspired salon, white-jacketed servers serve daily breakfast and weekend brunch for hotel guests. Also on this floor is a very wellequipped fitness room, which is quite large for a boutique city property.
With The Lowell located one-hundred-fifty feet from Madison Avenue and slightly more than one thousand feet from Central Park, we amply occupied our days by shopping and strolling, even walking all the way through the park to Harlem for our pre-show dinner at Vinateria (vinaterianyc.com), a lively Black-owned restaurant serving solid Italian and Spanish-inspired food without pretense.
While it's been a staple at the historic Apollo Theatre since the 1930s, I have been a fan of Amateur Night since college, when it would air on network television in the late night/early morning timeslot. I've attended in person four times, and I never fail to be entertained by the crowd and the rookie performers willing to go up against a "be good or be gone" audience whose display of dismay gets contestants promptly escorted by a tap-dancing "executioner" off a stage that's launched the careers of legends like Ella Fitzgerald and James Brown. For $30 a ticket, it's some of the best fun you can have on the cheap in the Big Apple.
Jacques Bar at The Lowell The Hollywood Suite at The Lowell.Here Lies Love sits at the opposite end of the entertainment spectrum (herelieslovebroadway.com). We were introduced to this new David Byrne and Fatboy Slim musical by dear friends who helped bring the disco-bio about Imelda Marcos to Broadway. Flirting with being among the top ten highest-grossing shows since opening in July, we celebrated the show's success and a pair of milestone birthdays with a prix fixe French/Korean feast at LittleMad (littlemadnyc.com). The restaurant's austere interiors, with overhead linear suspension lights casting an LED glow above chunky concrete tables with bench seating, belied the nuanced
flavors and beautifully presented dishes from Korean-born and New York-raised chef Sol Han's kitchen.
While NYC has long been known as "The City that Never Sleeps," it seems that COVID has left a melatonin-like effect on the fine dining scene. Running a little late for our 8:30 reservation, we sat down and found that we had mere minutes to submit our order to the kitchen at LittleMad before the cutoff. And even though we were the last to leave, we were happy knowing that our somewhat abbreviated evening could continue back in the comfy confines of the Club Room at The Lowell. sl
An amateur vocalist performing during Amateur Night at The Apollo.
The Landmark, Tiffany's 5th Avenue flagship store.
The “Audrey Experience” on the fifth floor of The Landmark, Tiffany's 5th Avenue flagship store.
GreyHunt Interiors may be new to Indianapolis, but its founder and chief designer, Sallie Lord, is no stranger to the design world. Alongside her amazingly talented team, she has made a name for herself in the Virginia/DC area with her elegant and exclusive style of “livable luxury.” Sallie’s personal life led her to the Hoosier state recently when she married Judd Lord, director of industrial design for Delta Faucet, located in Carmel. With her oldest son starting Purdue University in the fall and her youngest in high school, the timing could not be more perfect for branching out and making her mark in the Midwest at the Indiana Design Center.
Sallie’s colorful background certainly helped shape her career as a noted designer. Influenced by her master builder British father, who taught her from an early age about architectural elements, as well as her aunts’ antiques and reproductions store, Sallie was immersed in learning how to mix objects to make them work together. This foundation solidified with time spent working in an
art studio before moving into buying furniture and accessories for a home furnishings store. After obtaining her BA in interior design from Marymount University, Sallie’s dream of owning her own business became a reality. Named for her sons Hunter and Greyson, GreyHunt Interiors blossomed from a seed planted during childhood into the booming design business it is today.
But even with her immense expertise and years in the design arena, Sallie still believes her learning and growth as a designer is fluid. “Every client, every scenario, every house is different,” she explains. “I want to know what they love, what they don’t love, how they live in each room. Do they entertain? Have pets? Kids? What is their life like? Because in the end, I am helping them achieve a lifestyle with a design that is both functional and beautiful.” Sallie’s thirst to learn extensively about each client’s needs, combined with her mastery of design elements, makes her a genuine delight as a designer. “We find out who they are, and then we build them up for success,” she says.
Sallie Lord
This project, dubbed “Emerald Gem,” is a favorite of Lord’s. Photographed by Stacy Zarin Goldberg
High-contrast finishes are a GreyHunt hallmark; here, black glass herringbone tile highlights the gold Brizo faucet. Photographed by Stacy Zarin Goldberg
This bathroom perfectly exemplifies the “livable luxury” for which GreyHunt is known.
GreyHunt Interiors’ motto of “Cohesive – Luxury – Curated” is apparent in the various projects and rooms displayed in its galleries. The viewer is swept up in the livable luxury that Sallie and her team create for their clients. Cultivating calm, refining relaxation, and crafting character not only transforms a client’s home, but their life, Sallie believes. “Giving people joy, even in hard times, and being a bright light to a client is a privilege that I am blessed to do,” she adds. Looking at the psychology of design, Sallie works to help clients find a cohesive approach, curating a path for successful living with the feel of modern luxury. Sallie feels that rooms affect us emotionally, and one of the biggest mistakes she sees relates to her clients’ desire to only work on the main floor and ignore one of the most important rooms in the home: the primary bedroom. When overlooked, this room, which is the first and last thing seen each day, can cause anxiety and stress, inhibiting a client’s ability to fully reach their potential, she maintains. “It should be your retreat, your bedroom and ensuite. It should give
you a peaceful calm, an escape to a luxurious hotel where you leave your worries at the door.” Indeed, most of those clients return to her after finishing their main floor in order to achieve the same sense of ease she has created in their other rooms. Sallie’s designs not only wield magic on the rooms, but on the people themselves.
Delving deeper into GreyHunt Interiors’ galleries, clients cannot help but notice a love for color. Whether it is a lazy lavender or a gregarious green, Sallie is not afraid to add pops of interest and personality to a space. “Colors create certain feelings,” she says, adding that color can be used to connect rooms visually and add another element of universality throughout the home. When implementing color, Sallie ensures that it compliments not only the room, but surrounding spaces. While this sounds easy to do, it is far from it. In order to craft each room with its separate needs—from a well-used family room to a formal dining area— Sallie’s team has to blend without being redundant. In the end, the result is one where the pieces fit together and yet shine singularly.
This allows pieces throughout the home to be interchangeable elsewhere and yet also be original to their space—unique, but universal. The flexibility to move items around when the whim strikes without upsetting the balance of the design is a tall task that GreyHunt Interiors readily accomplishes in each design project.
If a client prefers a monochromatic palette, Sallie and her team instead play with depth and texture to create contrast. “A house talks to me…I build the room in my head and then go on the treasure hunt,” she says. That is when her team steps in to create the ideas in 3D renderings, pull together paint and fabric boards, and bring in various texture ideas in order to make the design a reality for clients. Her team works collaboratively throughout the entire process, their roles blending together much like the carefully selected textures, colors, and pieces they choose for each project. Even with several employees working in Virginia, daily meetings, Zooms, and emails allow them to bounce ideas around, coordinate choices, and bypass obstacles. And while some projects call Sallie away to
other areas of the country, she says her family is in Indianapolis to stay. “We’re working on our forever home. And I’m loving it here. Everyone is so wonderful and nice, I feel very welcomed.”
In addition to finding ideas for projects and well-coordinated rooms on GreyHunt Interiors’ website, potential clients can browse seasonal styling for the holidays and entertaining décor. Gorgeous photos present a plethora of examples of how to spice up a room or glam up a gathering. In addition, Sallie uses her expertise to teach others through a monthly blog in which she offers tips, tricks, and information on what is happening within the design industry. This October, Sallie will be a featured designer at the High Point Furniture Market where she has been selected to create a room for Rowe Furniture Company. But what excites Sallie the most these days is making a home in Indiana with her husband and children while discovering the flair and flavor of the Midwest as she brings her own style and inspiration to the Hoosier state with GreyHunt Interiors. sl For more information, visit greyhuntinteriors.com
In the fast-paced world of digital entertainment, where high-definition graphics and immersive virtual reality experiences dominate the landscape, one analog classic continues to capture the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide: pinball. At the forefront of this captivating pastime is Stern Pinball, Inc., a company that has not only preserved the legacy of the machine, but also evolved the game into an art form that transcends generations.
Before Space Invaders and Frogger began to spring up in pubs and bars around the world, my friends and I would amuse ourselves with a few rounds of darts, a game of shuffleboard or, when available, a couple of dollars’ worth of plays on the pinball machine. Back in the 1980s, machines were not especially sophisticated, bearing names like Wild West Rodeo or Cannonball Run and sporting colorful designs that brought a touch of Vegas (or the local county fair) to even the dingiest of dives.
In the old days, the sole objective of pinball was to keep the ball in play by using flippers, scoring points with each bounce off the various bumpers, games that could go on for many minutes in the hands of expert players. Games and themes were rudimentary by today’s standards. All that changed with the emergence of Stern Pinball, founded in 1986 by Gary Stern, a visionary in the world of pinball manufacturing, at a time of significant change in the industry. As video games began to dominate arcades, the traditional charm of pinball was facing an uncertain future. However, Stern saw an opportunity to revitalize the game and embrace the progressing technological landscape.
Under Stern’s leadership, the company quickly established itself as a leader in pinball innovation. Their commitment to high-quality craftsmanship and innovative design set them apart from the competition. By producing a steady stream of machines that pushed the boundaries of creativity, Stern Pinball ensured that the game would remain a beloved form of entertainment for years to come.
The history of pinball is closely intertwined with the cultural fabric of the 20th century. Originating as a tabletop version of billiards, pinball machines transformed into electric marvels in the 1930s. However, their journey was far from smooth. Often criticized and even banned due to moral concerns, pinball persevered, becoming a symbol of rebellion and freedom for many.
Through the decades, pinball machines evolved to reflect the changing times. From the vibrant art deco designs of the 1930s to the space-age themes of the 1960s and the neonsoaked aesthetics of the 1980s, these machines mirrored the spirit of their respective eras. The tactile joy of pulling back the plunger and skillfully maneuvering the ball with flippers resonated with players seeking a physical connection in an increasingly digital world.
Stern Pinball has crafted numerous iconic machines that have left an indelible mark on pop culture. Among these, the “The Addams Family” machine, released in 1992, stands out as one of the best-selling and most beloved of all time. Based on the quirky and macabre Addams Family franchise, the machine captured the essence of the characters with impeccable art, animations, and sound effects. Its popularity not only revived interest in pinball, but also showcased the potential for storytelling within the game.
Another groundbreaking release was “The Lord of the Rings” pinball machine in 2003. This epic adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s fantasy masterpiece transported players to the realms of Middle-earth. With intricate artwork, immersive audio, and challenging gameplay, the machine drew in fans of both pinball and the fantasy genre, demonstrating the medium’s capacity to transport players to imaginative worlds. Most recently, James Bond and Venom have joined the ranks of pop cultural behemoths incorporated into the pinball universe.
The evolution of pinball gameplay is a testament to the industry’s adaptability and innovation. Early machines relied heavily on chance, but over time, a delicate balance was struck between skill and luck. The introduction of flippers in the 1940s revolutionized the game, allowing players to influence the ball’s trajectory and create strategies. This marked the beginning of the “pinball renaissance,” as manufacturers started incorporating mechanical and electronic elements that intensified the gameplay experience.
The digital revolution of the 1980s and 1990s brought advancements like dot matrix displays, ramps, multiball modes, and intricate rule sets. These innovations not only increased the complexity of the game but also provided players with a deeper level of engagement. By seamlessly blending classic elements with modern technology, pinball machines evolved from mere amusements into interactive works of art.
Despite the ever-changing landscape of entertainment, pinball has endured as a timeless pursuit that continues to captivate enthusiasts young and old. Stern Pinball remains at the forefront of this enduring phenomenon, constantly pushing the boundaries of design and gameplay. Through its commitment to preserving the essence of pinball while embracing innovation, the company has ensured that the silver ball’s journey will carry on for generations to come. No longer strictly the preserve of amusement arcades and bars, Stern pinball machines have become a popular fixture in many a man cave and game room. Machines both ancient and modern provide not only an endless source of non-electronic gaming, but a unique conversation piece. Unlike a game controller or TV set, a Stern pinball machine is an heirloom piece, one that, if well-maintained and respectfully used, will provide a source of entertainment for generations.
In a world where instant gratification often prevails, pinball serves as a reminder of the joy that comes from mastering a physical skill, the thrill of unpredictability, and the simple pleasure of watching a ball traverse a captivating landscape. As long as there are those who appreciate the blend of artistry, craftsmanship, and strategy, the mesmerizing allure of pinball will continue to light up arcades, bars, and homes, reminding us that some classics are truly timeless. sl For more information, visit sternpinball.com
CHICAGO’S PREMIER DINING DESTINATIONS
Written by Jeffrey Cohen
Last time my wife and I stayed at the Ritz-Carlton, Chicago, we enjoyed a blissfully quiet sojourn in no one’s company but our own. On our most recent trip this past June, we were on a mission: to take our daughter to college freshman orientation and to meet her future roommate, a day we had anticipated for months, but which had finally arrived all too soon. Although we had not foreseen making any new friends that day, we hit it off immediately with our daughter’s roommate’s mother and made plans then and there to meet for lunch later. Once we parents were dismissed and the kids taken off to orientation, we departed with mixed feelings of both relief and foreboding, as I suspect many of us did, and headed straight for a favorite lunch spot, RL Restaurant just off Michigan Avenue. Within minutes, calm was restored with rounds of old fashioneds and vesper martinis, followed by a perfectly pale pink rosé from Provence, accompanied by lobster rolls and burgers, as we whiled away a pleasant afternoon with our newfound friend.
Following lunch and a bit of window shopping, my wife and I made our way to the Ritz-Carlton, Chicago where we were greeted like old friends, which in a way we almost are by now. We have been staying at this architectural gem in Water Tower Place for almost 20 years, and relish any opportunity to return. While checking in, I enquired about the newly redesigned Presidential Suite, with its collection of notable art and luxury amenities, and as we are art lovers, wondered if a tour might be possible. The concierge, as accommodating as could be, granted our request for later that afternoon.
Encompassing two floors connected by a show-stopping spiral staircase, the expansive suite features exclusive accommodations that offer a taste of luxury living in Chicago’s coveted Gold Coast neighborhood. With its art gallery theme, it offers guests the opportunity to sleep among museum-quality pieces by Tseng Kwong Chi, Rene’ Magritte, Roy Lichtenstein and James Rosenquist, complemented by panoramic views of the city’s skyline as well as Lake Michigan. With several pieces commissioned exclusively for the space, including those by Michael Young, a Chicago-based sculptor, the collection reflects Chicago’s sophisticated art scene.
The expansive full-service kitchen features its own secret entrance, offering discreet access for invited guests and a heightened sense of
privacy. I would have loved to cook here, envisioning entertaining family and friends for a Chicago weekend, but with the advent of college and tuition payments, I realized, such rarified accommodations might remain beyond our reach for at least the next four years.
Thoroughly impressed with our tour, we repaired to our own suite to dress for cocktails and dinner. Dining at the Ritz-Carlton, Chicago is a journey through flavors and culinary craftsmanship. Torali, Italian-Steak offers the highest caliber of dry-aged meats, seafood, and Italian classics while Bar Torali, with its magnificent rooftop terrace, provides breathtaking views of the cityscape and lake. It was here that we enjoyed a couple of negronis before summoning a car and heading up to Lincoln Park for a quiet date night dinner.
Mon Ami Gabi is a classic old-school French bistro, located in the historic Belden Stratford building. Cozy and pleasantly bustling, the restaurant is full of old world charm and is patronized by a clientele that clearly knows its European food. This little gem offers elevated country cooking that includes rustic chicken liver pate, steaming bowls of mussels and wonderfully authentic steak frites. Starting with escargots smothered in garlic butter, we subsequently enjoyed all the above, washed down with a delicious Chateauneuf du Pape. Then it was back to the hotel for a nightcap.
Mon Ami Gabi offers classic French fare.
Photographed by Michael Williams
A cozy spot at RL
Photo courtesy of Gibsons Restaurant Group
Quartino is a lively Italian spot with something for everyone.
In the evening, Bar Torali comes alive with a thoughtful selection of wines, craft cocktails, and an inviting atmosphere that encourages lively conversations. This is the ideal spot for unwinding after a day of exploration, and it was to the outdoor terrace that my wife and I repaired after our immensely satisfactory French dinner. Here we enjoyed a couple of digestifs, talking about how much we were already missing our daughter, even though it had only been a few hours, and how much we were looking forward to seeing her the next morning.
On our second day, following my workout in the hotel’s well-appointed fitness center in The Carlton Club, a private, members-only club also open to hotel guests, we enjoyed a quick breakfast of coffees and croissants in the recently-remodeled Club Lounge. This gorgeous space features various culinary and beverage offerings throughout the day, and functions as a “hotel within a hotel” for guests on the Club level. Next, we were off to campus to collect our daughter, who had already become fast friends with her new roommate. Deciding that a return visit to RL was in order, we all descended upon what has for at least the past decade been our
daughter’s favorite lunch spot. Somehow I do not think she will be able to afford to dine there on her student stipend, so she wisely made the most of the opportunity before her. Then she joined us at the hotel and took what may have been the longest bath in human history. I was tempted to assure her that she would be spending the next four years at a private university, not at the state penitentiary, but was secretly happy to indulge her whims.
Dinner that night was at Quartino on North State Street, an eatery highly recommended by our food and wine editor as an ideal spot to entertain people of all ages. Specializing in all manner of fresh pasta, conveniently offered in full- and half-portions to encourage sharing, Quartino is a hive of activity at almost any time of the week; service is prompt and friendly and everything, including the Italy-heavy wine list, is reasonably priced. Starting with a selection of salumi and a silky ball of burrata for the table, we then dove into a selection of pasta, particularly enjoying the gnocchi with tomato sauce and tortellini alfredo with fresh peas. Prudently leaving room for dessert, we shared a plate of profiteroles before calling it an evening.
Torali at the Ritz-Carlton, Chicago is a modern steakhouse with an Italian touch.
The following day, the three of us engaged in some light shopping in the morning, after which we visited the Spa at The RitzCarlton, Chicago by K’Alma, where I treated myself to a hot river stone massage while the ladies pampered themselves with manis, pedis, facials and everything in between. Dinner that evening was at Torali Restaurant on the hotel’s 12th floor. A modern steakhouse with an Italian twist, this is serious food for gourmets and gourmands alike. We had dined here on a previous visit and enjoyed several wonderful dishes, including a whole roasted branzino, memories of which still bring a smile to my face and an anticipatory rumbling in my stomach. We started with the charcuterie board accompanied by Manhattans for my wife and me, followed by an impeccable filet for my wife, a strip steak for our daughter and, inevitably, the branzino for myself. My memory had not failed: this was heaven
on a plate. Throughout our meal the flavors were rich, savory and utterly delicious, especially when accompanied by an excellent bottle from Priorat, which satisfied both my love of old-world elegance and my wife’s taste for rich, ripe reds. I am not usually one to steal from my wife’s plate, but found her steak to be nothing short of perfect.
Bidding adieu to the Ritz-Carlton, Chicago, and getting on the road for our three-hour drive home, we felt as if we had just exited one era in our lives and were about to enter another. The next time we would make this drive, it would be to deposit our daughter at college, and life would never be the same again–a daunting prospect, but also one tinged with excitement and anticipation. We spent the journey talking about the future and all that lay ahead; our horizons, disappearing into the distance like the Indiana cornfields, seemed endless sl For more information, visit Ritzcarlton.com
Written by Jeffrey Cohen
The Western & Southern Open is one of the world’s top tennis tournaments, held in Cincinnati at the Lindner Family Tennis Center each August. It’s the nation’s longest-running professional tennis tournament played in its city of origin. First played in 1899 on the
current site of Xavier University, the tournament has been a fixture in the Queen City for more than a century. The champions list reads like a who’s who of tennis greats, with more than 100 International Tennis Hall of Famers having played the tournament over the years.
The Western & Southern Open is held each year at Cincinnati’s Lindner Family Tennis Center.
This year’s tournament was won by men’s champion Novak Djokovic and women’s champion Coco Gauff. Said Djokovic after the tournament, “This rivalry (against opponent Carlos Alcaraz) just gets better and better. It did feel like a Grand Slam final. Every match we play goes the distance.” Indianapolis resident Toni Navarrete said, “Imagine the exhilarating anticipation that comes with having the world’s most talented tennis players converge in
your backyard. The courts were bustling with energy as the best of the best, both men and women, took to the pristine hard courts and showcased their skills, agility and determination. You sit so close to the action you can practically feel the spin of the ball.”
The Western & Southern Open is about more than simply tennis, however. Over the past decades, the Western & Southern Open has used tennis as a force for good, donating more than $12
million directly to community beneficiaries such as Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, the University of Cincinnati Cancer Center, and the Inner City Tennis Project. And throughout the tournament, which runs for a full week, there are a wide variety of activities for all ages, including tennis agility drills and games, kids’ art activities, player autograph sessions and meet-and-greets, “Tennis Talks” where attendees can ask questions about the game, and a wide
variety of musical artists performing each day. In addition, there are numerous bars and restaurants set up to appeal to all ages and tastes, from burgers and ice cream to brasseries, asian fusion, even charcuterie and champagne bars. A day spent at the Western & Southern Open is a wonderful activity for couples, groups and families alike sl
Next year’s tournament will be held from Monday, August 12 through Tuesday, August 20, 2024. For tickets and more information, visit wsopen.com.
The experts at Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery are here to help create a home that’s as extraordinary as you are. Any project, any style, any dream—bring your inspiration to Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery. Visit build.com/ferguson to schedule your personalized showroom experience today.
YOUR LOCAL SHOWROOM: CARMEL
8/17–3 IndyFringe Theatre Festival, Indianapolis, indyfringe.org
3 Formula One Italian Grand Prix, Monza, formula1.com
8–10 The Armory Show, New York City, thearmoryshow.com
14–17 Fortinet Championship, Napa, California, fortinetchampionship.com
14–17 BMW PGA Championship, Surrey, England, europeantour.com/dpworld-tour/bmw-pga-championship-2023
16–10/16 Festival Verdi, Parma, Italy, teatroregioparma.it/festival-verdi-2023/
22 Polo at Sunset for Special Olympics Indiana,Whitestown, indypolo.com
23 Portrait of Wishes: Bourbon, Bling & Bowties, Indianapolis Marriott North, indianawish.org/events/bourbon-bling-bowties-2023/
27–30 Indy Jazz Fest, Indianapolis, indyjazzfest.net
6 Oktoberfest, Carmel, carmel.in.gov/our-city/experience/events-and-festivals/oktoberfest
9–15 Shriners Children’s Open, Las Vegas, shrinerschildrensopen.com
11–15 Frieze London, London, frieze.com/fairs/frieze-london
20-21 Candlelight Concert: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics, Indianapolis, thecyrusplaceeventcenter.com/event/candlelight-concert-a-haunted-evening-of-halloween-classics
22 Formula One United States Grand Prix, Austin, Texas, formula1.com
23–11/13 25th Annual Ann Katz Festival of Books & Arts, JCC Indianapolis, jccindy.org
24–11/5 Wexford Festival, Wexford, Ireland, wexfordopera.com
by Morgan Kirsch
On April 27, Reis-Nichols hosted a special VIP preview party to kick off the Annual Watch Event weekend festivities. Among the highlights of the evening, guests were invited to view the newest releases from IWC Schaffhausen. The evening included entertainment from DJ MetroGnome, cocktails and delicious food catered by Savor.
Drivers Alexander Rossi and James Hinchcliffe were the special guests at the Reis-Nichols-TAG Heuer event that took place on May 23 during Indianapolis 500 Race week. Hinchcliffe, former IndyCar driver and commentator for NBC Sports, interviewed his longtime friend, IndyCar driver and TAG Heuer ambassador, Rossi in a special live session during the event for the VIP guests.
On June 19, over 130 golfers gathered at Sagamore Golf Club in Noblesville for the 18th annual Noble Golf Classic presented by Mark and Kristin Plassman, Corteva Agriscience, World Wide Technology and Walmart. This year’s event sold out months in advance and raised a record $111,000+ to benefit the more than 3,000 children and adults with disabilities served by Noble. Following a full day on the links, golfers enjoyed a post-game reception emceed by WTHR Channel 13 meteorologist Kelly Greene, with heavy appetizers compliments of Ruth’s Chris Steak House, an open bar, putting contest, prizes, giveaways and more.
Monumental Yoga, benefiting Indy Yoga Movement, took place on Monument Circle on June 21. This was the tenth year for the event, which features yoga classes held on the circle throughout the day. The event raised over $10,000 to support yoga education in central Indiana schools.
IndyHumane held their 3rd Annual Putts for Paws golf tournament at Prairie View Golf Club in Carmel on June 22. Over 150 people attended the day-long event that benefited IndyHumane and its programs. Various holes featured fun activities, such as “Beat the Pro”, where golfers teed off against world-ranked long drive professional Andrew “Thor” Wright; the “Flamingo Hole”, which required golfers to tee off one one leg or pay a penalty fee; and the Golf Ball Cannon, with Colts player Braden Smith and radio personality Nikki Miller, where golfers could pay a fee to shoot their ball out of a cannon instead of driving it. The event raised $87,000 to improve animal welfare in central Indiana.
Prairie View Golf Club in Carmel was the site for a golf outing on June 8 benefiting St. Mary’s Early Childhood Center. More than 120 golfers competed to support the Center’s early childhood initiatives; it was the 28th year for the event. Jimmy “Mad Dog” Matis hosted, while food and beverage holes were sponsored by Cardinal Spirits, Tito’s Vodka, and Another Broken Egg
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Dulcinea, the home of Jamie Gibbs and Paco Argiz, was the setting for the Romeo and Juliet Garden Party, held on August 12 to highlight the upcoming spring premiere of Romeo and Juliet. The performance will be the first-ever collaboration between the Indianapolis Ballet, the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, and Clowes Hall. Members of the Indianapolis Ballet Troupee attended, as well as board members and patrons from all three organizations.
The Premier Group and Ovation AV are proud to announce their merger to offer an even broader assortment of superior brands and leading-edge home and commercial technology services to the Greater-Indianapolis area.
Combining Premier’s leadership position in residential and commercial integrated systems including lighting, window treatments, security & camera surveillance, audio & video entertainment, conferencing systems, and related technology solutions, and Ovation’s expertise and long standing reputation for providing the very best brands in high-end two-channel audio and Atmos home theater systems, this merger will surely result in customers being offered some of the finest selections and services the technology industry has to offer.
S im pl ify i ng y our smart hom e tec hnolog y i nto one ea sy -t o-u se touch pane l.
Af ter a t iri ng wo rkday, it’s ti me to escape to a p lace of ca lm and rel ax a tion . Let us he lp yo u simpl if y you r even i ng rout i ne into the touch of a but ton called you r “N i ght” scene. Con ta ct us for a pr iv ate consultat i on in ou r sta te-o f -the-a rt show room at the Ind iana Desi gn Ce nter.
COMING SOON! In early 2024, you’ll be invited to browse the new Ovation Retail Gallery featuring the very best in Lighting, Audio & Video. This new Experience Center will offer designers and homeowners the chance to test-drive the latest in home technology trends. Please visit our current Premier and Ovation showrooms.
Dr. Emily Hrisomalos is a double board-certified plastic surgeon and an expert in reconstructive and cosmetic surgery of the face and neck. Her treatment philosophy revolves around delivering compassionate, customized care and exceptional results that help patients look and feel their absolute best.
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- DR. EMILY HRISOMALOS -
