Sophisticated Living Nashville July/August 2021 by Sophisticated Living Magazine

{Nashville’s Finest}

July/August 2021 ten dollars

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SPECTACULAR PANORAMIC VIEWS Spectacular condo with incredible panoramic views – enjoy them from the terrace too! A walk to everything downtown Nashville. Beautiful gas fireplace. Floor to ceiling windows. Lutron shades. Washer and dryer included. Open kitchen with top grade appliances. Owner’s suite with access to terrace. Luxury living at its finest with a lush pool deck, 24hour concierge, fitness + yoga room, roof top lounge and dog park. www.CityLights302.com 3 Beds / 3 Full Baths | 1,864 SF 20 Rutledge #302, Nashville, TN NEW Price: $1,149,000 Represented by Jackie Roth Karr, 615.330.9779

SIGNIFICANTLY SOLD IN WEST MEADE

SOLD

This beautifully designed and renovated home just sold. The picturesque lot creates an idyllic setting and is highlighted by a babbling brook running across the back. The coveted outdoor living area features a covered back porch and a screened-in porch. The 4 bay designer carport is highlighted with a tongue and groove ceiling and doubles as outdoor entertaining. Truly it is one of a kind! 4 Beds / 3 Full Baths | 2,398 SF 6513 Jocelyn Hollow Road, Nashville, TN Sales Price: $1,000,000 Represented by Maria Holland, 615.289.6056

THOMPSONS STATION SIGNIFICANT SALE

SOLD

Open, spacious, and practically new make this Bridgemore Village Beauty highly sought after. Backing up to trees and fenced, the backyard offers privacy and space. The owner’s suite features two walk-in closets, an upscale bathroom, and a sitting area. The kitchen is astounding and opens into a large living space. The covered back porch makes it perfect and only 1.5 years young! 5 Beds / 3 Full Baths / 1 Full Bath | 4,380 SF 3658 Martins Mill Road, Thompsons Station, TN Sales Price: $926,000 Represented by Maria Holland, 615.289.6056

JACKIE ROTH KARR

MARIA HOLLAND

GREATER NASHVILLE AREA NASHVILLE HOME SALES UP 30% OVER LAST YEAR AVG. NASHVILLE HOME SELLS IN 15 DAYS: 2 50% FASTER THAN 1 YEAR AGO HOME SALE PRICES ARE UP NEARLY 3 15% OVER LAST YEAR CURRENT MEDIAN HOME 4 SALE PRICE IS $361,250 BUY + SELL WITH THE #1 BRAND IN REAL ESTATE, RE/MAX 5

Information provided by 1.) RE/MAX Housing Report, May 2021 2. - 4.) WSMV Nashville, May 2021 5.) Entrepreneur’s 2020 Franchise 500® survey, 8th Straight Year

lipmanhomesandestates.com 2002 Richard Jones Road, Suite C-104 Nashville, TN 615.463.3333 Each RE/MAX office is independently owned and operated.

{Nashville’s Finest}

July/August 2021

May/June 2021 ten dollars

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on the cover: Gibson Garage VIP Room Photo by Charlie Mahanes

Garage Rock

Gibson Flying V, 1958 at Gibson Garage’s Vault Photo by Charlie Mahanes

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Publisher’s Letter

A Spot of Tea

Garage Rock

Come Together

Making a Splash

Saddling Up in the Sunshine State

The Ultimate (Man) Cave comes to Auction

Summer Time

Tsavorite Favorites

Summer Sips

From Seventy to 70 Million

Of Note...Beachy Keen

Tip-Top with the Top-Down

Viva Villa

Joy of the Feast

Perfect Pairings

French Connection

Lowcountry Luxe

Trés Chic

Sophisticated Weddings

The Tale of Tales

We would like to make a correction to our article “All Aboard” in our May/June 2021 issue-Nashville’s Union Station is an Autograph Collection hotel, not a Hyatt property. We apologize for the confusion.

Escape

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Footsteps from the beach, miles from worry.

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July/August 2021

15 A Spot of Tea

Peek inside The Bracken Children’s Garden at Cheekwood through the eyes of some mini Nashvillians

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Sophisticated Society

Symphony Fashion Show

Fable Lounge

Swan Ball Auction

Four Seasons Private Residences Owners Celebrate Topping Out

Steeplechase Art Unveiling

Steeplechase at Diamond Cellar

Music City Grand Prix

Start Your Engines

Good to Gogh

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From the Publisher Since the newly opened Gibson Garage is the cover photo for this issue, I think it’s an opportune time for me to share my lifelong love affair with the guitar and rock and roll. My Dad was an avid jazz enthusiast who never cared for “the new stuff”. I remember watching the Beatles’ debut performance on Ed Sullivan when my dad jumped up and changed the channel. Lucky for me, a few years later, he grew to be open-minded enough to pick me up a copy of “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band”. Once I heard that music, I was hooked and got started with a four-string baritone ukulele that Christmas. Six months later, I got a proper classical guitar and took guitar lessons for the next 10 years. My guitar teacher, God bless him, tried very hard to get me to be a fluent reader of sheet music, but after I had heard a piece a few times, I could play it without having to read it–becoming both a blessing and a curse. Playing the guitar has always been an important aspect of my life. I even moved back to Nashville from New York City in 2002 to work for Gibson Guitar as their head of Corporate Development. I got an incredible SJ-200 acoustic guitar specially built for me as a signing bonus. If you have the musical bug and start to be proficient, sooner or later you will probably want to be part of a band. As a teenager and through my college years, it taught me how to collaborate with people. In a band, as with any group effort, sometimes your teammates will have different goals, abilities/talents, tastes in music, and personalities. Working in bands at this early age, you learn when to listen, when to compromise and when to advocate for yourself. There is something spiritual about making music with people that forms longstanding bonds. I’ve made some of my closest friends that way, especially when you are writing and performing original music. I started out writing songs with a boombox, a pencil, a pad of paper, and a guitar, then I would bring them to my NY band, The Aggressive Pedestrians. Looking back, I was a little protective of my material and not as open to other’s suggestions as I should have been. Fast forward to my first band when I moved back to Nashville, The New Derivatives. We would just jam and record everything. We would choose the good bits and then write melodies and lyrics over them, then tweak each other’s work because we trusted each other. Then there is the joy of recording original songs professionally. I was always amazed at how good they can make things sound in the studio, and this was before the existence of autotune. I have had the pleasure of recording at some fantastic studios: Mix-O-Lydian and Bennett Studios in New Jersey (where we were recording next door to Steve Martin), MillerMix and Sound Emporium in Nashville. My sons, Jack and Charlie, have been fortunate to record locally at The Castle, Blackbird Studios and Ocean Way in Nashville. Following that is the sheer adrenaline of playing your original music in front of a live audience and pulling off a tight performance as a band. I look forward to more opportunities to play live in the future. The logical extension of my guitar playing has been collecting guitars and vintage amplifiers. I am definitely a gearhead. I got my first great guitar, a black Gibson Les Paul Custom, as a surprise for Christmas in 1976. I still have it and have been an avid collector ever since. Before the internet, I used to read Vintage Guitar cover-to-cover primarily looking for vintage British Vox amplifiers from the ’60s and other Beatles/Stones-related gear. Whenever Melissa and I would travel, we would have to go to the nearest local vintage guitar store and check out their Voxes and guitars. We hauled back many choice items from our travels. There was even an occasion when I bought a mid ’60s Vox Bass amp like one used by McCartney that I sourced through a phone conversation and a subsequent international visit to Music Ground in Doncaster, England. I didn’t know anything about importing things, and the amp got stuck in customs at JFK. I had to pay as much as I paid for the amp to get it released. Live and learn! The internet has made this effort much easier. After 3 years of pretty constant searching, in September of last year, I bought a very hard-to-find 2003 sunburst Gibson Firebird VII with chrome hardware (a rare feature) in mint condition. Yeah, I’m still into it. My love of the guitar has brought me much peace, happiness, and contentment over the years in many different ways. It’s a major stress reducer and a significant social activity for me. Having two sons who are equally interested in music-it is a terrific way for us to be together, and they constantly introduce me to new material, not to mention our rockin’ basement jam sessions. If you learn an instrument, it is something that you can enjoy for the rest of your life. I hope that all of our readers have or find something special like that in their lives.

Dave Mahanes, Publisher dave@slmag.net

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willscompany.com

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______________________________________________ Copy Editor Brit Hoyt CONTRIBUTORS Writers Amy Atkinson Patti Bailey Colin Dennis Leo Dessaux Chloe Gellar Elliott Greene Shawn Haile Andre James Amelia Jeffers Dave Mahanes Melissa Mahanes Bridget Williams Claire Williams Travel Editor Christy Waller Photographers Mary Craven Dawkins Ashley Hylbert Charlie Mahanes We want you to be thrilled to receive your issues of Sophisticated Living Nashville—if we have your mailing address incorrect or wish not to receive the magazine, please email us at nashville@slmag.net.

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SOPHISTICATED LIVING MEDIA Eric Williams, CEO Bridget Williams, President Greg Butrum, General Counsel Jason Yann, Art Director Sophisticated Living® is published by Mahanes Media Group, LLC and is independently owned and operated. Sophisticated Living® is a registered trademark of Williams Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Sophisticated Living® is published six times a year. All images and editorial are the property of Mahanes Media Group, LLC and cannot be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission.

SLMAG.NET

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Mary Spottswood entertains

A SPOT OF TEA Mary Spotswood Underwood entertains in grand style at Cheekwood’s Bracken Children’s Garden Written by Melissa Mahanes / Photos by Mary Craven Photography

Growing up among the outdoors of the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia, Mary Spotswood Underwood was immersed in the regional traditions surrounding food, florals and all aspects of entertaining. After graduating from the University of the South in Sewanee, TN, with a degree in Fine Arts and Art History, she wanted to further explore her passion for food. She enrolled at the world-renowned Le

Cordon Bleu in London. While earning her certificates in cuisine and patisserie, she learned that how a dish is presented is equal in importance to the flavors it embodies. Mary Spotswood then put her passions and skills to use working in a catering kitchen in Birmingham, Alabama. She also worked as an event coordinator and freelanced in product styling, food styling, and recipe development for magazines.

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Meekins

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Relaxing in the Library

Colt Wesley

Wesley, Evelyn and Meekins share a secret

Henry

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Offered her dream job as Cookbook Editor and Project Manager for FRP (Favorite Recipes Press), Mary Spotswood moved to Nashville and quickly decided to call it home. After FRP closed its doors, Mary Spotswood felt it was time to reinvent herself professionally while also becoming a mom. Mary Spotswood now finds her passion in helping others entertain successfully seasonally and tries to find the sweet spot between being a mom of three young boys and getting all of her creative girly energy out! She is a dynamo of energy and creativity—her company, À la Bonne Femme, is there to help you entertain effortlessly no matter what the season. She offers a variety of services to accommodate your many entertaining needs. From dazzling florals and holiday décor to catering, cooking classes, and event styling, Mary Spotswood can do it all! 18 slmag.net

I loved collaborating on this tea party with her and being introduced to her friend, another talented double-monikered creative, Mary Craven Dawkins, to photograph some of our favorite young people enjoying a beautiful afternoon at the Bracken Children’s Garden at Cheekwood. Many thanks to Wesley and Meekins, Evelyn and Henry, Peter and Colt, and their mothers (and one grandmother) for being our models and sharing some delicious nibbles in such a delightful setting! sl Check out Mary Spotswood at: alabonnefemme.com/Instagram: @maryspotswood. Select children’s clothing courtesy of Maggie Tucker / Magpie’s / 6019 SR-100, Nashville, TN 37205 / (615) 997-3851 / magpiesnashville.com. Select table linens courtesy of Corzine & Co. / 4005 Hillsboro Pike #103, Nashville, TN 37215 (615) 385-0140 / corzineco.com. Fascinators: Melissa Mahanes. Silver service, furniture and accessories from Mary Spotswood’s personal collection.

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GARAGE ROCK Gibson Brand’s CEO JC Curleigh cuts the ribbon at Gibson Garage with an impressive dedication

Compiled by Melissa Mahanes / Photos by Charlie Mahanes and Mitch Conrad We were thrilled to be included in the ribbon cutting of Gibson Garage and are sharing JC Curleigh’s words to the assembled press and guests. This could not have been said any better! “Bob Dylan wrote a song called “The Times They Are a-Changin’,” and if we’ve learned nothing in the last year, the times they are a-changing, and we’ve gone through one hell of a challenge for the last year and a half. In fact, just almost a year to the day, some of our factories here in Nashville were closed, a lot of our guitar dealers. Nashville itself was asking more questions than anyone had answers for—in fact, the world was—and we declared something very specific a year ago—we said we’re going to plan for significant impact as we were going to have, and we plan for that, but at the same time, we said we are going to prepare for opportunity, because when it comes back (and it will, and it is), we need to be ready—not to say, well, we couldn’t get much done

because of (you know what), and we kept our team safe; we made sure we put all of our protocols in place, but we also dared to dream, and we dreamed big, and we said when it comes back in Music City, “What’s new in Nashville?” “What’s new at Gibson?”. In the last year, we persevered, and we created Gibson TV—now over 500 hours of award-winning content. We created the Gibson app—an app that’s designed to learn, actually to entertain, to engage, and yes, even transact and shop and buy a guitar from your phone through the Gibson Garage. And the final point is we’re opening The Gibson Garage, and when people say “what’s new in Nashville?” You’re like “yeah you got the Ryman” and “we’ve got Broadway,” you might see a show at Bridgestone, if you can get in the Bluebird—that’s awesome, “go to the Grand Ole Opry,” everyone knows all those awesome Music City-centric places and “what’s new in Nashville?” It’s The Gibson Garage.

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We fundamentally believe that this experience will deliver for our Gibson fans—the fans that love us and want more, the fans that might have left us and want to come back, but also that future fan—that 10-year-old kid that’s going to come in here and we’re going to let them play one of these guitars—they may not buy it, but you know what? In ten years, they are going to come back and say, “I’m buying that guitar because ten years ago you let me play it.” Remember when you were a kid, and people told you what you couldn’t do? This isn’t the place. This is the place where we can tell the future fans and future artists that are not only going to be on this stage but probably at the Bridgestone and the biggest stages in the world, and they can say, “my guitar experience started here at The Gibson Garage Music City.” So, on behalf of the entire Gibson team who have made this possible, I want to say thanks. You know who you are, but I also

want to say thanks to the City of Nashville. When you have a backdrop, and a brand, and a name, and energy that starts with Music City, that’s a pretty good starting point. And for us, a lot of folks come to Music City to actually take from Music City (in a good way), take the energy, the excitement, the music—that’s why people come here, but we, Gibson, have an opportunity and an obligation to contribute to the legendary future of Music City and that’s why we’re thinking big around the Gibson Garage around putting our headquarters right here in the center of Nashville, moving our factories from Memphis to Nashville. We’re declaring Nashville once again truly the home of music and the home of Gibson. I just want to say thanks to all of you who made this possible, but the future looks bright for Gibson and for Nashville, so thank you!” sl Thank you, JC. Gibson Garage / 209 10th Avenue South, Suite 205, Nashville, TN 37203 (615) 933-6000 / Monday-Saturday 11:00am-6:00pm, Sunday 12:00pm-6:00pm

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Providence Interiors

Unique Finds + Design 2209 Bandywood Drive, Suite C Nashville, TN 37215

Mary Craven Photography

www.providenceinteriors.com @providenceinteriors

Retail Showroom + Design Studio

COME TOGETHER Providence Interiors designs a home meant for gathering Written by Shawn Haile / Photos by Ruby & Peach

Living Room: Statuesque composition-a room designed for conversation, surrounded by art and bathed in natural light.

This stunning Green Hills home was designed for a family who loves to GATHER. The “more the merrier” expresses the spirit of the homeowner. The pandemic brought a renewed sense of family, purpose, and refuge into the spirit of gathering. Providence Interiors’ Melanie Ball was the lead designer for the project, and she designed each beautiful space to set the stage

for different styles of gatherings throughout the home. Inspired by the client’s love of bringing family and friends together, the home was redesigned to set the stage for various gatherings at every turn. While bringing much “new” to the house, the client’s beautiful art collection was incorporated into the design to develop a sense of taste and history.

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Kitchen: Party of five in a kitchen that has it all!

Dining Room: The custom mural is a nod to Beersheba Springs, TN, where the family has gathered for six generations

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Family Room: The custom walnut waterfall cocktail table is showcased among textures and jewel tones to reflect the client’s collection of antique Persian rugs

Sunroom: Sun-kissed color bursts reflects the owner’s love of color

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Primary Bath: Timeless finishes create a spa experience, every dayperfect place to unwind

Primary Bath: Function meets beauty…coral is always a good idea

Primary Bedroom: A blend of “serene” and “fuchsia” create the owner’s personal retreat.

A custom mural on the dining room walls by Nashville artist Charlotte Terrell was commissioned as a nod to the family’s love of Beersheba Springs, TN. The mural surrounds the ample dining table, which seats 14, where six generations of their family has gathered over the years. The walls reflect the beauty of the mountain scene and beckon guests to relax and enjoy the experience. The formal living room was updated in a classical style with a modern edge. The new central-cased opening makes this room more accessible to the heart of the home, with four ivory leather chairs beckoning more intimate gatherings-the perfect place for conversation and cocktails. The removal of a central hallway enlarged the kitchen, allowing room for a large island and more 28 slmag.net

efficient workstations. Five counter stools invite family and guests to linger in the kitchen. If they’re lucky, they will leave with a tin of the famous homemade toffee made every Christmas by the client. Off the kitchen, the sunroom provides a casual space for family members to retreat and provides a relaxed entertaining space that accommodates eight at the table. The vivid colors of the outdoor gardens are reflected in the choice of fabrics. The primary bedroom suite serves as a private retreat for the client. Selections were made to provide a place to relax and rejuvenate, with pops of bright color. The bold fuchsia velvet of the chaise and the glass globe cluster chandelier are among the client’s favorite features. Layers of neutrals allow the fabrics and

Kitchen Bar: Art in the spotlight over a bar complete with a soda water tap

Family Room: Gather to play!

art to be front and center. The primary bath was transformed to reflect the owner’s desire for a spa experience. Both natural stone and natural light create a serene warmth. A view of the expansive backyard is framed above the free-standing tub. On the second floor, three separate bedroom suites were designed for the client’s adult children, with each reflecting various elements that each family member would appreciate. The lower-level basement can now be accessed through a covered entrance. This space provides a welcoming guest house experience, complete with two bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, a laundry room, project room, media room, and yoga room. In addition, a bunk room and planned secret hidden spaces are a delight for grandchildren.

This home has been reimagined to make memories for years to come. The new elements all work together to embrace the importance of family and friends gathering together to share love and laughter, and are always accompanied by boundless good food and hospitality! sl Lead Designer Melanie Ball, Providence Interiors Architect: Van Pond Builder: Brian Glasser of The Sovereign Group Photography: Ruby & Peach Artist: Charlotte Terrell (custom mural for dining room, as well as 3 oil landscapes she created to make the mural. One is over the mantle in the Living Room, reflecting what is on the Dining Room walls) Artist: Ed Nash - Primary Bedroom and Bath paintings Artist: Paige Moorehead (Living Room bookcase artwork) Stone and tile: Triton Stone Group Plumbing: Kenny & Co Good Wood, for the custom walnut coffee table. Nashville Fine Rugs (LR, DR and Kitchen runner)

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MAKING A SPLASH For Emily Vaca, a St. Louis native and entrepreneur, kiddie pools are more than just child’s play. Written by Claire Williams

Emily Vaca says that the idea for Minnidip, her inflatable pool company, can be traced back to her childhood in St. Louis, where she’d look to escape the heat and humidity by splashing around in a large galvanized tub in her backyard. Those memories sparked an a-ha moment years later while staring at her rooftop deck on a steamy summer day as an adult living in Chicago. At that time, mini inflatable pools were kiddie-sized and sported graphics appealing to the younger set. Looking for something more suited to sipping bubbly than blowing bubbles, Vaca realized she couldn’t be the only city dweller with the same thought. Drawing on years of experiences as an accomplished professional in design and branding, including working with clients such as Anheuser Busch, Kraft Foods, and Nike, Vaca self-funded the fiveyear effort it took to bring her first adult-oriented inflatable pool to market. Already a budding entrepreneur before taking the plunge into mini pools, Vaca rolled Minnidip’s pattern design, manufacturing, packaging, branding, content creation, and styling into La Vaca, a company she founded several years earlier as a side hustle focused on wedding invitations, event design, and home décor DIYs.

During Minnidip’s first year, more than 500 pools sold online and in a Chicago boutique. After catching the eye of Target, who signed on as a retailer in 2018, by 2019, Minnidip experienced a 3000-percent growth spurt, selling 100,000 pools and grossing $2.8 million in sales. When Vaca appeared on QVC in 2019, Minnidip’s most popular design, “That’s Banana(s) Leaves,” sold out in nine minutes. The brand made it to New York Fashion Week that same year via a collaboration with playful fashion brand Alice + Olivia. Continually innovating, Vaca continues to add to her line, including pools with a first-ofits-kind tufted shape and creating vibrant new on-trend prints appealing to adult sensibilities. While Vaca’s big idea started as the antithesis of the traditional kiddie pool, she has expanded her lineup of products to include whimsically-shaped splash pad sprinklers, DIPP!T ball pits, PUP DIP dog pools, floats, Minni-Coolers, and even chic Minni-Minni pools to for posh pint-sized pool-goers. The pools’ popularity persists, evidenced by the fact that orders placed on Minnidip.com are limited to one Minnidip per person. sl

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SADDLING UP INWestgate THE SUNSHINE STATE River Ranch Resort and Rodeo provides a plethora of outdoor activities without compromising on comfort Written by Patti Bailey / Photography by Tony Bailey

A Dude Ranch? Why would I want to go to a Dude Ranch, especially one located in Florida? That was my first thought when the trip was suggested to me. I mean, doesn't that involve sleeping in tents on the hard ground and cooking over an open fire? The reason you go to Florida is to relax on the beach. A Dude Ranch sounds more like work and not relaxation. As much as I tried to resist, I eventually gave in and decided to try it. As we drove through the gates of the Westgate River Ranch Resort and Rodeo, I quickly came to realize that there was a possibility I jumped to my conclusion about this Dude Ranch much too soon. The minute we arrived, a "ranch hand" escorted us to check-in, where we were given the keys to our golf cart and greeted by our personal concierge, who showed us to our accommodations. I was delighted to see that we would be staying in a Luxe Conestoga Wagon rather than roughing it in a tent. I have had my share of tent camping in my younger days and prefer sleeping in a real bed. As we walked up the steps to the deck of the wagon, I turned and looked at the magnificent view of open fields, with horses and buffalo grazing beyond the lagoon. I could feel my body going into relax mode already. Walking into the wagon, I breathed a sigh 34 slmag.net

of relief once I saw the king-sized bed with well-appointed linens and a full bathroom. Among the amenities in the mini kitchen were stemware for drinking a glass of wine on the deck and a s'mores kit to complement the nightly campfire lit by our concierge. We had a little time before our scheduled dinner, so we hopped into our golf cart for a tour of the resort, and I was astonished by the variety of available accommodations. To say there is something for everyone is an understatement. Typical tent camping and lodge rooms are available, but if you prefer a one-of-a-kind experience, book the 651 squarefoot Luxe Teepee, which sleeps four guests and contains a living room, dining area, and a fireplace that separates the living room from the bedroom. In addition to the same amenities as the Luxe Conestoga Wagon, the full bath In the Teepee boasts a porcelain cast iron clawfoot tub. When you stay in a Luxe Conestoga Wagon or a Luxe Teepee, your rate includes Adventure Park passes, airboat and swamp buggy rides, horseback riding, trap and skeet shooting, archery, and tickets to the famous Saturday night rodeo. We stopped for a quick break at the private airstrip to watch a collection of small private planes and helicopters take flight.

Interior of a Luxe Conestoga Wagon

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The 651-square-foot Luxe Teepees sleep up to four guests

Expert riders guide guests on a 45-minute trail ride.

A cutting-edge trap and skeet range is one of more than a dozen on-site activities.

Westgate River Ranch is the largest dude ranch East of the Mississippi.

Opening ceremony of the weekly Westgate Rodeo.

During the Florida airboat ride guests learn about the fascinating history while scanning the horizon for native wildlife, including alligators.

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Athletes of the Westgate Rodeo, held on Saturday nights.

Our dinner the first night was at the Westgate Smokehouse Grill. It was a magnificent Southern buffet consisting of barbecue, fall-off-the-bone ribs, brisket, and a plethora of sides. I do not know how we could save room for dessert, but we did manage, and the bread pudding was amazing. After dinner, we retreated to our wagon and found the roaring campfire too inviting to resist. We joined some of the other wagon guests and had a relaxing night of conversation, wine, and, of course, toasted marshmallows for s'mores. In the morning, a breakfast basket built to our specifications awaited us in a covered barrel on our deck, along with a big pot of coffee, another perk of Luxe Conestoga Wagon lodging. It was a perfect way to jump-start the day. Fully fueled, we were ready to start the dude ranch experience. An abundance of activities awaited us each day. Gentle horseback rides take guests on a scenic trail through the backwoods of the resort, passing cattle, buffalo, and grazing horses. It almost felt like we were in the Old West as we passed the covered wagons, teepees, and tents. With credit to an attentive instructor, I was pleased with the number of targets I managed to hit on my first attempt at trap shooting. By the time dinner at Saddleback Pavilion rolled around, we had worked up quite an appetite. We were thrilled to see that the impressive event space was serving up a traditional Louisiana crawfish boil. Once again, the Chefs did an outstanding job. After dinner, we stopped at The Saloon for drinks and line dancing, which was a fun way to work off those dinner calories.

Our last day was full of activity, starting with a swamp buggy ride. Our host was quite the entertainer as we drove through the wooded, scenic trails hoping to spot alligators. Next, it was on to an airboat ride, where we toured the picturesque Kissimmee River, snapping photos of more alligators, along with hawks, and rare birds. After a short break, we climbed aboard a hay-covered wagon for a ride through the resort while serenaded by a guitar-playing cowboy. The wagon dropped us off at the East Corral, another event space, for our final dinner, which was steak and lobster prepared by a visiting chef from one of Westgate's other resorts. Grilled to perfection, the delectable dinner was fit for a king and culminated with Bananas Foster for dessert. Capping off our stay, we watched in amazement as experienced riders showed off their skills at the Saturday night rodeo. Not quite ready for the weekend to end, we strolled over to the Adventure Park, which was abuzz with activity, including bungee jumping, rock climbing, zip lining, mini golf, mechanical bull riding and a petting zoo. How could you not have a great time? The idea of having our next family reunion at the Resort was forefront in my mind. If I have not convinced you that a Dude Ranch is your next vacation, you will be delighted to know that Westgate has 29 locations across the United States offering vacation experiences ranging from sandy beaches on the Atlantic Ocean to snow covered Utah mountains. sl Luxury glamping experiences at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo begin at $326/night. For more information visit westgateresorts.com.

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THE ULTIMATE (MAN) CAVE COMES TO AUCTION Written by Amelia Jeffers / Photos Courtesy Selkirk Auctioneers & Appraisers

In a remote area of eastern Missouri, roughly 50 miles outside of the bustling urban center of Saint Louis, prairies meet the Ozark plateau, and a mystical plat of land richly packed with natural resources conceals a well-known subterranean masterpiece that has come to be known as Picture Cave. Housing what some scholars believe to be the greatest assemblage of indigenous American polychrome paintings ever discovered in the ancient cultural area known as Meso-America, the two-cave system was once an important ritual site for early Mississippian culture. Today it functions as a vital ecosystem for one of the densest populations of the endangered Indiana gray bat. Over a millennia ago, native tribes, especially the Osage, roamed and controlled vast swaths of land from what is now known as the Ohio River Valley to Kansas, including the property where Picture Cave is situated. These early settlers utilized caves for various reasons, the most obvious being the opportunity for shelter and protection. Caves were also mined for powerful organic resources, including gypsum crystals and epsomite, used in trade and for medicinal purposes. What sets Picture Cave apart from almost any other is the extraordinarily well-preserved and comprehensive collection of pictographs and iconography. The images' significance is comparable to that of major ancient cities like Cahokia and Chaco Canyon, which once existed directly across the Mississippi River from modern St. Louis and in northwest New Mexico, respectively. Since the research began in 1990, several selfless individuals, institutional grants, foundational funding, Osage members, and the landowners have made it possible to link documented facts with artistic interpretation. For archeologists, Picture Cave represents a vast spiritual convention in the recesses of the Earth that early regional civilizations 38 slmag.net

used for sacred rituals, rites of passage, vision quests, and burials. Scholarly research dates the images to approximately 900-1100 CE. They are extensively documented in the 20-chapter fully-illustrated book, Picture Cave: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Mississippian Cosmos, published in 2015 by the University of Texas Press. Several field experts, archeologists, Native American tribe members, and artists comprise the Picture Cave Interdisciplinary Project to accomplish this wonderful resource guide to understanding Picture Cave and its preservation. These experts include such renowned names as Patty Jo Watson, Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Anthropology at Washington University in St. Louis, and Dr. Jan Simek from the University of Tennessee. As part of ongoing research in Picture Cave, Dr. Simek has compiled and compared geochemical analyses of prehistoric pigment, employed AMS radiocarbon dating and spatial order of iconography. The findings have been published several times in American Antiquity, the professional journal published by Cambridge University Press for the Society for American Archaeology. On an August or September date to be announced, Selkirk Auctioneers & Appraisers of St. Louis will offer this invaluable piece of history at auction to the highest bidder on behalf of its current owners, the Busch Family of Missouri. The cave's breathtaking iconography rests at the pinnacle of land teeming with natural springs, rolling hills, and wonderful views that only accentuate the magnitude of one of America's greatest archaeological finds. All 43 encompassing acres of real estate are included in the property auction, which is estimated to sell for $1,000,000-3,000,000 USD. For more information, visit selkirkauctions.com. sl Amelia Jeffers is an internationally recognized art and antiques auctioneer, appraiser, and adviser to top collectors, dealers, and institutions around the country. Amelia is also the Editor-in-Chief of Sophisticated Living Columbus and can be reached at ameliajeffers.com.

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SUMMER TIME Stylish ways to keep track of those lazy-hazy-crazy days Complied by Elliott Greene

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Spread clockwise from top left: One of the first ever wristwatches, the Santos De Cartier was originally created in 1904 by Louis Cartier at the request of Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos Dumont who wanted to be able to tell time while flying. Steel case and 18k gold bezel ($10,800). Available at Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, The Diamond Cellar in Columbus and Nashville, Simons Jewelers in St. Louis, and cartier.com. The 42mm Bell & Ross BR 03-92 Diver Orange is limited to an edition of 250 pieces ($4,000). Available through the Diamond Cellar in Columbus, Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis, King Jewelers in Nashville, and bellross.com. Ultra-light and ultra-sporty, the new limited-edition Angelus U30 timepiece unites a variety of prestigious complications into a single timepiece. The 47mm black DLC titanium case houses one of the most complex automatic skeletonized movements in the world ($73,400; angelus-watches.com). 42mm Polaris Date from Jaeger-LeCoultre in steel with a calendar and a rubber strap ($9,000). Available through Reis-Nichols in Indianapolis, King Jewelers in Nashville, and jaeger-lecoultre.com. The design of Breitling’s 44mm Super Chronomat is based on the original 1980s Chronomat that Breitling created for the hotshots of the Italian Air Force’s aerobatic fleet. Shown with a rubber Rouleaux-inspired strap ($8,500). Available from Richter & Phillips in Cincinnati, Reis-Nichols and Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis, Genesis Diamonds in Nashville, Simons Jewelers in St. Louis, and breitling.com. For its 2021 model, TAG Heuer revamped and upgraded the popular Golf Edition of its Connected watch with improved mapping and an innovative club recommendation tool ($2,550). Available at the Diamond Cellar in Columbus and Nashville, Moyer Fine Jewelers and Reis Nichols in Indianapolis, Davis Jewelers in Louisville, Kings Jewelers in Nashville, and tagheuer.com. RAYMOND WEIL Freelancer Caliber RW1212 Green Edition with 42 mm stainless steel dial framed by a green satin chapter ring with silver indices, Clous de Paris in the center and a a green canvas strap ($2,050). Available from The Diamond Cellar in Columbus, Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, Davis Jewelers in Louisville, King Jewelers in Nashville, and raymond-weil.us. Ideal for women and those with smaller wrists, Garmin’s Descent Mk2S is a watch-style dive computer designed for everyday wear. The full-featured dive computer supports multiple dive modes and has the ability to store and review dive data for up to 200 dives ($999; garmin.com). The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust 36 with a palm motif dial is one of four versions of the model with new ‘palm’ and ‘fluted’ dial motifs ($7,050). Available at Richter & Phillips in Cincinnati, the Diamond Cellar in Columbus and Nashville, Reis-Nichols in Indianapolis, Davis Jewelers in Louisville, Simons Jewelers in St. Louis, and rolex.com. The Alpina Seastrong Diver 300 is water-resistant up to 1,000 ft. and comes with a gray vintage leather strap, dial and bezel with PVD coated case ($1,395). Available from Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis, King Jewelers in Nashville, and at us.alpinawatches.com. A 2021 Red Dot Design Awards winner, the titanium solar-powered max bill MEGA Solar from Junghans boasts a state-of-the-art radio-controlled movement ($1,190; junghans.de/en)

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TSAVORITE FAVORITES Compiled by Bridget Williams

A member of the garnet mineral group, British geologist Campbell R. Bridges first encountered Tsavorite in Tanzania in 1961. A charging water buffalo prompted him to seek safety in a gully, where he discovered a rock outcropping with bright green crystals. Bridges made a second discovery of the stone six years later that also involved an animal encounter: a formidable rhinoceros who had a penchant for patrolling the pit Bridges and his team had excavated. A 35-carat example was unearthed before the mine was nationalized, forcing Bridges to turn his attention to Kenya. In late 1973, the mineral was finally named by Harry Platt, then the President of Tiffany & Company, after the Tsava Game Reserve, where some of the most prized and purest green hues are found. At the time, Platt, who also named Tanzanite, which was discovered near Tanzania’s Mt. Kilimanjaro in the 1960s, remarked “Tsavorite is everything that a fine gemstone should be, and then some.”

Clockwise from top left: Orchid pendant necklace from Ritique ($2,260; ritique.com). Sig Ward Jewelry opal, Tsavorite and diamond ring ($5,092; sigwardjewelry.com). Picchiotti Rose Tsavorites necklace. Available through Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis and at picchiotti.com. Assael Tahitian pearl, jade and Tsavorite earrings (assael.com). Lola triple ring from Melissa Kaye ($11,050; melissakayejewelry.com). Vendome Lace earrings from Nouvel Heritage ($4,300; nouvelheritage.com). Kwiat slim bangle ($3,750). Available through The Diamond Cellar in Columbus, Reis-Nichols in Indianapolis, King Jewelers in Nashville, and kwiat.com..

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Clockwise from top left: Geo Art earrings from Kavant & Sharart (kavantandsharart.com). Lunatic ring from Samantha Tea ($1,950; samanthatea.com). Carved abalone & tsavorite earrings from Goshwara ($7,000; shopgoshwara.com). Diaboli Kill Iris Goddness Tahitian black pearl ring with pavé Tsavorite ($7,000; diabolikill.com). Anita Ko Safety Pin earring ($950; anitako.com). Multi-strand emerald necklace with Tsavorite cube pendant from Rush Jewelry Design ($15,000; rushjewelrydesign.com).

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HERE COMES THE SUN Capture summer’s sojourn with these soleil-inspired pieces Compiled by Bridget Williams

Clockwise from top left: Sunface pendent with diamond eyes from Anthony Lent ($3,910; anthonylent.com). Azaurite Sunburst necklace from Karma El Khalil (karmaelkhalil.com). Solar pendant from Jennifer DeMoro ($2,800; jenniferdemoro.com). Hammered 19K gold and diamond earrings from Elizabeth Locke. Available from King Jewelers in Nashville and at elizabethlocke.com. Clio ring from Bondeye Jewelry ($1,550; bondeyejewelry.com). Jude Frances Provence Open Sunburst diamond earring charms ($2,710). Available through Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis, and judefrances.com. Fire ring from Ana Katarina ($4,765; anakatarina.com). Earrings from Lydia’s Courteille’s Marie Antoinette Dark Side collection (lydiacourteille.com/en/).

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Clockwise from top left: Il Sole Tarot Card necklace from Sorellina ($17,500; sorellinanyc.com). Luce bracelet from Pasquale Bruni ($5,800; us.pasqualebruni.com). Tamara Comolli GYPSY ‘Candy’ Sun pendant ($4,190). Available through Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis and at us.tamaracomolli.com. David Yuman Solari Bracelet ($675). Available through the Diamond Cellar in Columbus, Moyer Fine Jewelers and Reis-Nichols in Indianapolis, Davis Jewelers in Louisville, and davidyurman.com. 18K gold diamond Sun ring from Roberto Coin ($1,980). Available through the Diamond Cellar in Columbus, Reis-Nichols in Indianapolis, Davis Jewelers in Louisville, King Jewelers in Nashville, Simons Jewelers in St. Louis and at robertocoin.com. Irissa Sun stud earring from Pamela Love ($350; pamelalove.com). You Are My Sunshine diamond stud earring from EF Collection ($575; efcollection.com). Jewelry designer Temple St. Claire worked with astrophysicist at the University of Bologna to create this 18K gold bracelet with a working sundial. Crafted by the atelier’s most masterful Italian artisan, tt can be custom ordered with the constellation of your birth sign ($85,000; templestclair.com).

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SUMMER SIPS Picnic-perfect bottles from wineries around the world Compiled by Chloe Gellar

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CAVA FOR SPRITZ SEASON

Masseria Surani Primitivo di Manduria Doc 2017 (SRP $19)

Juvé & Camps Reserva de la Familia Gran Reserva 2017 (SRP $23)

Full-bodied and harmonious, Primitivo di Manduria represents one

A winegrowing family for over 200 years, Juvé first started producing

of the points of excellence of Puglian wine production. The Manduria

sparkling wines under their name in 1921. This family-owned, 100%

D.O.C. area of southwest Puglia is rich in history and culture and

estate-based producer is revered in Spain for its meticulous focus on

famous for producing excellent wines and Primitivo grapes in particular.

quality and sustainability.

A beautifully designed new label complements the deep ruby red color

"Reserva de la Familia" (translating to 'Reserve of the Family') is

of this Primitivo. Floral aromas of violets to rich, fruity ones of cherries

the leading Gran Reserva in the world, always vintage-dated, and all

and strawberries come forward against a background of balsamic notes,

the more notable because of the quality needed to produce it without

licorice, and aromatic herbs. On the palate, it is full-bodied, broad,

dosage ('Brut Nature' designation). Deep, intense, and elegant, it

and fruity and wins you over with its refined tannins and lively finish,

initially evokes ripe white fruits followed by hints of fennel, toast,

underpinned by an appealing sensation of freshness.

and citrus to complete its distinguished aroma. Its creamy mousse is perfectly integrated in the palate, making its texture in the mouth

A SAUVIGNON BLANC FOR THE SEASON

simultaneously fresh, rounded, and evocative.

Dog Point Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2020 (SRP $25) Dog Point wines are hand-crafted (and handpicked) from estate

Juvé & Camps Brut Rosé Pinot Noir NV (SRP $23)

fruit grown on some of Marlborough's oldest vines and best sites,

Juvé & Camps' flagship rosé is made from 100% Pinot Noir.

with some plantings dating back to the 1970s. Dog Point's focus on

Following the "Méthode Traditionnelle," it is aged for 15 months in

pruning, soil health through organic farming, use of native yeasts, and

the bottle. Categorized as 'Brut' with only 5g/l of dosage, it is intense,

a non-interventionist style of winemaking all point to a quality and

fresh, and exuberant. The inviting aromas of cherries and strawberries,

detail-obsessed producer intimately familiar with its region.

hints of honey, toast, and floral notes contribute to the freshness of

This wine is the ultimate vision of vibrant and perfumed New

this cava. The mouthfeel is creamy and delicate, with a fine, energetic

Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. A pure, citrus-driven Sauvignon with

mousse that caresses dry very gently, releasing all of its fresh aromas

subtle tones of pear and white peach, the palate bursts with fresh

of red berries.

grapefruit and Meyer lemons for juicy flavor and refreshing acidity. The wine would sit comfortably alongside a dozen oysters shared

ADD A CERTAIN JE NE SAIS QUOIS TO YOUR NEXT PICNIC

with or without social distancing. It drinks beautifully now or can

E. Guigal Côtes du Rhône Blanc 2018 (SRP $18)

comfortably cellar for five years or more.

Guigal's Côtes du Rhône Blanc both sets and steps outside the standard for the appellation and showcases one of the great secrets

CHILEAN CHOICES FOR SUMMER SIPPING

of the Guigal family: their specialization in the great white Rhône

Errázuriz MAX Chardonnay 2019 (SRP $20)

varieties. While only eight percent of the Rhône's production is white,

Founded more than 150 years ago by Don Maximiano Errazuriz in

a full twenty-five percent of Guigal's production is white, and they are

the foothills of Mount Aconcagua, Errazuriz has become recognized

today the single largest producer of whites in the Rhône Valley. A fresh

as one of the top quality producers of Chilean wines and has played

note marked by distinctive Viognier aromas of white flowers, apricot,

an instrumental role in raising the reputation of the region on a global

acacia, and white peach. The fruits come through on the palate, with

scale. The exceptional soils and cool ocean breeze provide optimal

plenty of richness and body. It's a well-rounded wine with elegance,

conditions for Chardonnay in Errazuriz's coastal vineyards, located

power, and balance.

just eight miles from the Pacific. The diverse soils control plant vigor, producing balanced yet intensely concentrated fruit with a beautiful

LIVING LA DOLCE VITA

fresh citrus and mineral profile. On the palate, it first shows its citric

Masseria Surani Fiano 2018 (SRP $18)

character, accompanied by tropical fruits and notes of marzipan and

Owned by the Tommasi family since 2014, Masseria Surani covers 309

dried fruits. The wine has medium structure and well-balanced acidity.

acres in the heart of the Salento Peninsula near the picturesque Ionian coast. In keeping with Masseria Surani's tribute to the local land, the

Errázuriz MAX Pinot Noir 2019 (SRP $20)

process that goes into making Fiano is noninvasive and allows the

Hailing from a daring planting nearly 15 years ago of vineyards fewer

characteristics of the local terroir to shine through. The wine, adorned

than ten miles from the Pacific Ocean, MAX Pinot Noir is a stunning

with a beautiful new label for 2021, is aromatic, marked by notes of

expression of Pinot Noir that arguably makes it one of the highest quality,

white flowers, tangerine, and lime. The premium fruit required for

most interesting, and most original Pinot Noirs available at its price from

making a small about of this high-quality wine is obtained via strict

anywhere in the world. The fruit gives way to balsamic and spicy notes on

clonal selection, modern vine training systems, and severe pruning, all

the palate, plus a lightly toasted note that hints of its time in the French

carried out with respect for terroir and tradition.

oak barrels. It is a wine with a good structure, soft and elegant tannins.

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FROM SEVENTY TO 70 MILLION

Marking a milestone birthday with a rafting trip in the Grand Canyon Written by Bridget Williams / Photography by Tony Bailey

“Don’t think, just do,” river guide Mackay said to me in a Yodalike fashion as I peered over the edge of a crag above the Colorado River in the belly of the Grand Canyon. It wasn’t so much the height that prompted my hesitation, rather a genuine fear that the shock of hitting the 50-ish-degree water and the subsequent swim to shore would induce a heart attack. Among the fellow travelers who’d gathered on an adjacent rock to watch the spectacle was my father, camera at the ready to capture his eldest daughter in action. I’d planned a trip to the 70 million-year-old natural wonder to mark his seventieth birthday, and not wanting ever to deny dear old Dad a photo opportunity, I swallowed deep and launched myself into the air. Seconds later, emerging from the depths of the blue-green water, I felt a rush of relief and fully alive from the invigorating polar plunge. The jump was part of my second Grand Canyon rafting trip with Western River Adventures, this time a three-day float encompassing the lower 100 miles of the Canyon. While celebrating a milestone birthday was the impetus, I was also enticed by the fact that at the trip’s end, I could say I had rafted the entirety of the Grand Canyon, from Mile 0 at Lee’s Ferry to mile 277 at Pearce Ferry. Western River Expeditions is a leader in top-notch rafting vacations, having pioneered the concept more than five decades 48 slmag.net

ago. Based on my last experience, I didn’t even consider another rafting outfitter when planning this trip. While short in duration, the three-day holiday offered a packed itinerary and the Western River version of “Planes, Trains, and Automobiles,” namely planes, helicopters, and rafts. Following a crack-of-dawn charter bus ride from our hotel in Las Vegas to the airport, a scenic small craft flight over Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam took us to a remote dirt landing strip at Bar 10 Ranch, located on the North Rim of the Canyon. From there, we boarded a helicopter for a dramatic flight into the Canyon, landing at Mile 188, just below the infamous Lava Falls rapid and the spot where my trip five years earlier had ended. A pair of J-Rig boats dubbed the “Cadillacs of the Colorado,” were “parked” at the river’s edge. Weighing 10,000 pounds without passengers, Western River Expedition’s patented boats are capable of supporting 66,000 pounds. Four long tubes in the front provide a bucking-bronco-type ride through the rapids for up to 12 guests. Just behind, elevated seating atop the food coolers offers a less wild ride, with the area near the boat captain and drybag storage that keeps passengers’ gear secure and dry at the rear of the craft is the place to be for kicking back and just soaking in the scenery.

Campsite along the river’s edge

The three-day rafting trip begins with a helicopter ride from Bar 10 Ranch into the Grand Canyon.

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Exploring Travertine Grotto, a series of hidden waterfalls and pools.

Having paddled my way through Class V rapids on more than one occasion in West Virginia, I can say that I much prefer letting the quiet 4-cycle outboard engine do the heavy lifting and expert maneuvering as we powered through the rapids, which are rated on a scale of 1 to 10 due to the technical challenges provided by the unique environment. As a passenger, it’s best not to get hung up on ratings, as several of the most fun rapids fall lower on the scale but provide the biggest bounce! Unless you are a hard-core outdoorsman or woman, the bottom of the Grand Canyon is likely one of the most remote places you’ll ever find yourself. With no cell service or dedicated bathrooms (except for the private “port-a-potty” set up at camp each evening), the experience is not quite glamping, but not exactly roughing it either, making it ideal for those with little-to-no camping expertise. The majority of daylight hours are spent floating downriver on the boat, with bits of whitewater interspersed with stretches that are smooth-as-glass. With temperatures at the bottom of the Canyon sometimes as much as twenty degrees warmer than at the rim, the quick chill prompted by punching a rapid is soon a distant memory. By the end of the first day, you might find that your neck is sore from craning in all directions to appreciate the vastness 50 slmag.net

of the landscape, which ranges in width from rim-to-rim from 600 feet at Marble Canyon, near mile zero, all the way up to 18 miles. Though indiscernible while rafting, there’s a 1,000foot drop in elevation as you travel from the North to the South Rim. Rocks rule as the star attraction, although the Canyon is home to 70 species of mammals, 250 species of birds, 25 types of reptiles, five species of amphibians, and, surprisingly, just eight fish species, six of which are only found in the Colorado River. Guests on spring trips have the added bonus of potentially peeping the fleeting blooms of wildflowers. After a full day of rapid-running, making stops for scenic hikes, and “nature breaks,” a riverbank campsite is chosen for the evening. Guests work together to create a “fireline” and offload everything stowed on the boat that’s needed for the evening, an exercise that’s the embodiment of the idiom many hands make light work. Western River provides cots, tents, sleeping bags, chairs, and a drybag for your personal duffel bag. Our travel mates ranged from a couple celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary with their children and grandchildren to newlyweds who pivoted to a stateside honeymoon after the pandemic canceled a planned

Guide Mackay taking it easy atop the dry bags.

The biggest rapids are run on the second day of the three-day trip.

Perfecting the art of the “smize” during dinner service in camp.

European adventure. Nearly a third of campers went all-in on the dark sky experience by skipping the tent set-up and opting to snooze under the stars. You will definitely not go hungry with hearty buffet-style meals that leave you wondering how the guides pull off their culinary wizardry in such a primitive setting. With advance notice, guests with dietary restrictions can be amply accommodated. As dinner wraps up and the sun dips behind the canyon walls, conversations continue in the darkness, with brief pauses to admire a sky splatter-painted with billions of stars. On the flip side, the “call to coffee” coincides with the emergence of dawn’s first light. Breakfast is served, the camp is dissembled without leaving a trace, and the boats repacked before many of us would be finishing our first coffee of the day at home. The heart and soul of Western River Expedition trips are its guides, who work tirelessly to ensure that every guest has the best experience possible. Becoming a professional guide is a distinct lifestyle choice. Western River has several guides who’ve transitioned into “grown-up” lives but can’t resist heeding the river’s call and continue to return to lead a few trips each summer. Shortly after disembarking the helicopter I was delighted to see

a familiar face in guide Mackay, who was in his first season as a guide during my seven-day trip in 2015. During long stretches on the water, guides provide levity, share interesting tidbits about Canyon lore and geology and provide essential safety reminders. They occasionally spring into action to throw themselves on top of a passenger to prevent them from falling off the raft, which happened as we punched through a rapid on day two. Knowing what to expect, I admittedly wasn’t as gobsmacked by the scenery as I was on my inaugural journey, and that’s often the case for any place you return to more than once. Still, there’s much to be said for experiencing something familiar through the eyes of someone who is seeing it for the first time. An enduring expression of awe on my dad’s face, combined with a slew of superlatives rolling off his tongue from the trip’s start to finish, erased any hint of been there done that nonchalance I would have otherwise exhibited. The National Park Service regulates the number of permits it issues for rafting trips, meaning that it’s wise to plan well in advance, although I have COVID to thank for a relatively last-minute opening for our early spring trip. Rates for a three-day Grand Canyon rafting trip with Western River Expeditions start at $1,600 per person. For more information and reservations, visit westernriver.com. sl

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Of Note... Beachy Keen

Compiled by Colin Dennis

This page, clockwise from top left: Madam Stoltz paper rope hat ($40; trouva.com). Octo drawer hardware from PullCast (pullcast.eu). Yves Delorme Calypso bath mat (from $95; usa. yvesdelorme.com). Life’s a Beach takes readers into remarkable coastal dwellings around the world. Life’s A Beach, gestalten 2021 (gestalten.com). Lazy Daze beach towel from Tesalate ($59; tesalate.com). NEST New York x Gray Malin Ocean Mist & Sea Salt Reed Diffuser ($54; nestnewyork.com). BOLA Sofa from Gansk ($1,800; gansk.pt/en/).

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This page, clockwise from top left: Cioccolato gelato from Amorino (amorino.com/en-us). Arid'Eté dessert plates from Jardin D’Ulysse (jardindulysse.com). Carl Hansen & Søn’s BM5565 Deck Chair with Footrest ($1,060; carlhansen.com). Nikki hammock from Hommés Studio (https://hommes.studio/). The Design Collection: 'Harbour' dog drying coat from Ruff And Tumble (from $70; ruffandtumbledogcoats.com). Johanna belted swimsuit from Hermoza ($164; thehermoza.com). John Hardy unisex Kami Classic chain ring ($795). Available through Moyer Fine Jewelers and Reis-Nichols in Indianapolis, Davis Jewelers in Louisville, and johnhardy.com. Briar dress from PQ Swim ($150; pqswim.com).

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Audi R8 Spyder

TIP-TOP WITH THE TOP-DOWN

A few of our favorite summer rides that let you doff the roof for pure driving pleasure. Compiled by Andre James / Photography courtesy of the manufacturers

AUDI R8 SPYDER From a limited series to a permanent addition, the character of the R8 models carry forth sharpened design enhancements for the 2021 model year. The V10 performance variant takes the sporty stature up a notch, with the lower trim finished in matte Titanium color and the sideblades, mirror housings, and rear spoiler finished in carbon. At the rear of the vehicle, the dominant diffuser frames the sport exhaust with black oval tailpipes. The V10 performance models come standard with 20-inch 5-double-spoke-dynamic design milled cut wheels in titanium finish, with an option to change the color to anthracite finish. The ceramic brake calipers are available in red or blue, along with the standard gray finish. Weighing just 97 pounds, the soft-top in both R8 Spyder models features an electrohydraulic drive system to raise and lower the roof in about 20 seconds, at speeds of up to 31 mph. When opened, the soft top folds into a flat storage compartment over the engine. With the top up, the rear power window blocks the wind or can open to allow the rich sound of the naturally aspirated V10 engine (the same naturally aspirated engine found in the R8 LMS racecar) to flow into the vehicle cockpit. The R8 V10 performance generates 602 horsepower and catapults from 0-60 mph in 3.3 seconds, with a top track speed of 204 mph for the Spyder. The seven-speed S tronic® dual-clutch transmission can shift gears in as little as 120 milliseconds. The R8 RWD features a naturally aspirated 5.2-liter FSI V10 engine that produces 532 horsepower and sprints from 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds and on to a top track speed of 200 mph. MSRP for the 2021 Audi R8 V10 Spyder RWD is $154,900; and $208,900 for the 2021 Audi R8 V10 performance Spyder Quattro (audi.com). 54 slmag.net

BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT SPEED CONVERTIBLE Boasting enhanced chassis technology, including All-Wheel Steering, an electronic rear differential and the option of carbon-ceramic brakes, the third-generation Continental GT Speed Convertible is the most powerful, driver-focused interpretation of the benchmark convertible Grand Tourer, designed, handcrafted and engineered in Bentley's carbon-neutral luxury automotive factory. The powerplant is either a 4.0-liter V8 engine or an enhanced version of Bentley's renowned 6.0-liter W12 TSI engine, delivering 650 hp, 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds, and a top speed of 208 mph. Superior handling comes via Active All-Wheel Drive and Bentley Dynamic Ride, an anti-roll control system. Available in seven colors, the unique Z-fold convertible roof system can be deployed or stowed in 19 seconds at speeds up to 30mph. While the engine's purr is a sweet symphony to many, improvements in sealing and acoustic treatments have brought about a three-decibel reduction in overall noise level compared to its predecessor. Befitting a Bentley, the luxuriously appointed cabin sports Speed badging on the passenger fascia, an Alcantara steering wheel, and a unique color split trim in hide and Alcantara. Special to the Convertible range, the neckwarmer is seamlessly integrated into the heated and vented Comfort Seats, optimizing efficiency and airflow around the electrically adjustable headrests. Combined with a heated steering wheel and heated armrests, these sophisticated comfort features create an indulgent driving experience in all environments. MSRP for the 2022 Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible starts at $302,000 (bentleymotors.com)

Audi R8 Spyder

Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible

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BMW 4 Series Convertible. Photo by Fabian Kirchbauer.

BMW 4 Series Convertible The four-seater continues the tradition of exhilarating open-air motoring, rightfully deserving "The Ultimate Driving Machine" moniker with its modern styling, low-slung shoulder line, cutting-edge technology, and performance. The most noticeable change from the previous generation is switching from a hardtop to a newly designed insulated soft-top, which is approximately 40 percent lighter and increases cargo space, provides additional headroom, and creates a lower center of gravity for improved handling. Opening and closing the soft-top takes 18 seconds and can be performed at speeds up to 31 mph. Convertiblespecific noise reduction measures in the areas of the intake system, engine cover, and underbody dampen engine noise and thereby increase acoustic comfort when driving with the top down. A premium driver-centric cockpit boasts newly designed front power Sport seats and a leather Sport steering wheel as standard. The M Sport Package and M440i Convertible models offer additional soft knee padding on the sides of the center console and an M Sport steering wheel and door sill plates with the M logo. The start/stop button is located in the center console along with the newly designed gear selector lever, the iDrive Controller, and the buttons for the Driving Experience Control 56 slmag.net

switch. Rear seating for two includes integral head restraints and features a center armrest with storage and cupholders and a passthrough section to the cargo area. At the top of the power pyramid are the M440i and M440i xDrive Convertibles, with the B58 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder BMW TwinPower turbocharged engine producing 382 hp @ 5,800 – 6,500 rpm, and acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 5.0 seconds. All variants of the 4 series can reach an electronically limited top speed up to 155 mph depending on the selected wheel and tire combination. Drivers can opt for either traditional rearwheel drive, or BMW's latest intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system, offering additional traction during both performance driving and in varied weather conditions. MSRP is $53,100 for the 430i Convertible, $55,100 for the 430i xDrive Convertible, $64,00 for the M440i Convertible and $66,000 for the M440i xDrive Convertible (bmwusa.com). LEXUS LC 500 CONVERTIBLE The LC 500 Convertible may be based in part on the LC 500 coupe, but it is more than just a crop-topped replica, as careful attention was given to the LC Convertible's suspension, which is tuned specifically to complement the subtle changes in weight

2021 Lexus LC Convertible

between coupe and convertible. Even the sound system is finetuned with an EQ that adjusts based on the driving environment, whether the top is open or closed. Able to be operated at speeds up to 31 mph, the roof takes just 15 seconds to open and 16 seconds to close. An innovative folding mechanism includes a tonneau cover for when the top is stored. The front-engine, rear-wheel-drive LC Convertible shares the same direct-injected V8 powerplant as the LC Coupe. The 471 hp engine posts an impressive 0-60 mph time of 4.6 seconds, and its maximum track speed is electronically limited to 168 mph. The engine is paired with a Direct-Shift 10-speed automatic transmission. A focal point of the cabin is a 10.3-inch high-resolution split-screen multimedia display to provide immediate access to audio or climate controls and various systems, including the voice-activated navigation system. Lexus Enform Remote service, included with the first year of ownership, lets you lock and unlock doors, start the engine and climate control, check the fuel level, and more all through your smartphone, smartwatch, or devices enabled with the Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa. MSRP for the 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible starts at $101,100 (lexus.com).

Lamborghini Aventador SVJ

LAMBORGHINI AVENTADOR SVJ ROADSTER With its razor-sharp lines, the open-air version of the Aventador coupé is head-turning even before the V12 engine is fired up. Prepare to hold onto your hat when the roof is removed, as the roadster's V-12 engine is the most potent production series produced to date by the Italian supercar manufacturer. With an output of 770 hp at maximum 8,500 rpm, the convertible accelerates from 0-60 mph in 2.9 seconds and boasts a top speed of 217 mph. On the flip side, a braking distance of 60-0 mph takes 101-feet. Dynamic aerodynamics are courtesy of Aerodinamica Lamborghini Attiva, Lamborghini's patented active aerodynamics system, which actively varies aero load to achieve high downforce or low drag, depending on dynamic conditions using electronicallyactuated motors positioned in the front splitter and the rear wing. Adding a little more than 110 pounds to the car's total weight, individual sections of the roadster's roof, comprised of high-pressure RTM carbon fiber, weigh just over 13 pounds each. The roof, removed via quick-release levers in the cabin, stows securely under the front hood. Just 800 units of the Aventador SVJ Roadster will be produced with an MSRP of $573,966 (Lamborghini.com).

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Porsche Boxster 25 Years

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2021 Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster “Stealth Edition”

MERCEDES-AMG GT ROADSTER Among the 2021 model year enhancements is 54 more horsepower, bringing the total to 523 hp, capable of accelerating the roadster from 0-60 in just 3.7 seconds. The list of standard equipment has also grown to encompass AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension with adaptive damping adjustment, electronic limited-slip differential on the rear axle, AMG highperformance composite braking system, and red-painted brake calipers. Additional enhancements include the new lithium-ion starter battery and the "RACE" drive program setting. A sleek "Stealth Edition" variant is distinguished by the AMG Exterior Night Package, black brake calipers, the AMG radiator grille in dark chrome, headlamps with black elements, a black soft top, and mixed-size tires with 19-inch matte black Y-spoke wheels on the front, and 20-inch wheels on the rear. Equipment found in the interior of the "Stealth Edition" includes AMG Performance seats, an AMG Interior Night Package, AMG steering wheel in DINAMICA microfiber with black steering wheel spokes and shift paddles, upholstery in exclusive Napa-style leather in black with diamond quilting, black topstitching and trim elements in black piano lacquer (optionally in carbon fiber/black piano lacquer). A unique badge in the center console also denotes this special model. MSRP for the 2021 Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster from $130,700 (mbusa.com). PORSCHE BOXSTER 25 YEARS This year, Porsche Cars North America Inc. celebrated the 25th anniversary of its Boxster family with a special anniversary model: the 2021 Boxster 25 years. Based on the 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 model, the particular production model is limited to 1,250 units worldwide. Now in its fourth generation, more than 357,000 of the

mid-engine sportscar have been produced since the original Boxster concept car was first shown at the 1993 Detroit Auto Show. Neodyme, a copper-like color, which provided a unique contrast to the GT Silver Metallic color on the 1993 concept, appears on the front and side air intakes as well as for the lettering and the specially designed two-tone, five-spoke, 20-inch alloy wheels and in the special "Boxster 25" badge on the rear. Porsche is offering the Boxster 25 years in GT Silver Metallic, although Jet Black Metallic and Carrara White Metallic are also available. Another striking element can be found on the fuel filler cap, enhanced by Porsche script from the Exclusive Design range. The cap is painted in an aluminum look, as are the high-gloss tailpipes of the Sport Exhaust system, while the windshield frame is finished in black. Staying true to the style of the historic original, the unique model combines a Bordeaux red leather interior with a red roadster top made of fabric. Both interior and top are also available in black. An interior package in Brushed Aluminum, 14-way electrically adjustable sport seats, door sill trims with "Boxster 25" lettering and the heated GT multifunction sport leather steering wheel are included as standard equipment on the special edition model. The 4.0-liter flat-six engine, which is shared with the 2021 718 Boxster GTS 4.0, offers exceptional throttle response, power delivery, and a rich exhaust note. The high-revving 394 hp naturally aspirated powerplant, which is available with either a six-speed manual transmission or an optional seven-speed Porsche dual-clutch transmission (PDK), creates an emotional driving experience. The special-edition model reaches a top track speed of 182 mph with the manual transmission and, in combination with the PDK gearbox and standard Sport Chrono package, sprints from zero to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds. The Boxster 25 years starting MSRP is $98,600 (Porsche.com). sl

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The Zabuco Honeymoon Villa is built atop a cliff in Dominica’s Secret Bay promontory.

VIVA VILLA

A newly-launched portfolio of 500 Relais & Châteaux villas aims to raise the bar for fully customizable getaways. Written by Leo Dessaux

As the world slowly begins to crack open its door to travelers, some are willing to jump right in, while others take a more cautious approach, eschewing hotels for more private experiences. Reflecting changing customer attitudes due to the pandemic, Villas by Relais & Châteaux amplifies the group's defining ethos of family spirit, local anchorage, and excellent cuisine with a collection of more than 500 villas in 30 countries. Villa vacations are nothing new, but the affiliation with Relais & Châteaux gives guests peace of mind that they can expect the same elevated service found at one of the 580-strong, largely family-run network of R&C hotels and restaurants. Each villa in the portfolio is carefully evaluated and included based on guaranteeing a genuine sense of space, being available to rent exclusively, boasting private access, and having no adjoining properties, except for properties located in city centers. "Guests of Villas by Relais & Châteaux can expect the same level of refined service as if they were staying in one of our hotels – how much they want and when is entirely up to them," said Philippe Gombert, President of Relais & Châteaux. "Now, more than ever, our guests value personal space, and our collection of incredible villas can give them confidence and peace of mind – without compromising on hospitality. Villas by Relais & Châteaux is an essential component of our ability to evolve and thrive as we begin to think beyond the pandemic." While it's hard to choose favorites among the many notable properties, we've highlighted a few of our favorites below. You 60 slmag.net

can view all of the available villas and make reservations at relaischateaux.com/us/villas/destinations. VILLA IL BORRO, ITALY Nestled in the heart of a 270-acre estate in Tuscany, the 19th-century Tuscan villa overlooks the medieval village of Il Borro. The private palazzo sleeps up to 20 people in 10 quaint en-suite bedrooms with double beds. The property boasts a heated indoor pool, an outdoor pool, a fully equipped gym, a Turkish bath, and a large billiards room. Guests can spend the day strolling through a pair of private gardens, admiring the exquisite artwork painted on the estate ceilings, or sitting by the fire enjoying fine Italian wines and charcuterie. CASA DEL ARBOL, MEXICO Just five minutes from the main hotel, Casa del Arbol is a private treetop retreat perched above the tropical rainforest with incredible views overlooking the Pacific Ocean (book during the winter months for exceptional whale-spotting) and a private beach. Crafted from crafted pine and local stone, the villa is crowned with an enclosed main bedroom surrounded by a large private terrace. A wall-free second bedroom with an outdoor shower on the floor below makes guests feel truly at one with nature. Continuing down to the lower levels, a beautiful waterfall cascades down the hillside to fill three ponds that serve as guests' very own private pools. The culinary experience is one to remember, prepared by a chef who champions local Mexican ingredients.

The Villa des Orangers in located in the heart of the Medina of Marrakech in Morocco.

Villa Il Borro in Tuscany by Francesca Pagliai.

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Aerial view of the Nautilus estate in the Maldives

Casa del Arbol in Mexico

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Queen Victoria is among the storied guests who’ve enjoyed tea at Spring Cottage at Cliveden House, which sits on the banks of the River Thames.

CHALET COTTAGE AT TWIN FARMS, VERMONT The crown jewel of Vermont's only five-star resort is the Chalet, one of the property's ten uniquely designed standalone cottages. The two-floor, 3,000-square-foot cottage nestles at the edge of one of the property's six private ski slopes. Guests can admire the view of Mount Ascutney as they lounge in the expansive living area with floor-to-ceiling windows or soak in the tub on the enclosed private patio. Uniquely appointed, the cottage boasts two fireplaces, beautifully crafted furnishings, 18th-century Burgundian limestone flooring, and hand-thrown glazed tiles. Executive Chef Nathan Rich and his expert team invite guests to go on a unique menu-less journey throughout their stay by entrusting the kitchen to guide them through an exceptional culinary program celebrating local New England terroir. THE NAUTILUS, MALDIVES Located within the Maldives' stunning Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the three-bedroom Nautilus estate was designed as the ultimate private beach home with panoramic sea views from every light-filled room. Capped by an incredible thatched roof, the living spaces and decor convey the bohemian spirit of the island. Guests can indulge in fine cuisines and a curated wine selection via personalized catering service or select from various dining destinations throughout the estate. SPRING COTTAGE AT CLIVEDEN HOUSE, UK On the outskirts of London, this standalone cottage sits on the banks of the River Thames. Beloved by royalty, Queen Victoria and the Duchess of Sutherland are among the esteemed guests to have enjoyed afternoon tea at the cottage. The charming design of this

three-bedroom residence is the perfect spot for travelers looking for an ultra-private, elegant home-away-from-home. A rear garden right on the banks of the Thames makes this accommodation incredibly unique. Throughout their stay, guests will benefit from exceptional amenities, including personalized catering. VILLA DES ORANGERS, MOROCCO An oasis of calm and serenity in the heart of the Medina of Marrakech, the centerpiece of this private riad is the courtyard, finished in ornate ceramic tiles and featuring a private pool that shaded by lush banana trees. The private roof terrace overlooks the old town and the Koutoubia Mosque and has an unobstructed view of the Atlas Mountains. Guests will feel swaddled by nature as the property is complete with exceptional landscaping, flowers, tropical plants, and verdant planters. The two-suite riad, accommodating up to five guests, features intricately carved wooden furniture with soft fabrics, two luxuriously appointed bathrooms finished in cooling marble, and an outdoor living area. ZABUCO HONEYMOON VILLA, DOMINICA Perched atop a majestic cliff offering 180-degree views over the mountain peaks of Dominica and the sparkling Caribbean Sea, the Zabuco Honeymoon Villa lies at the furthest point of the Secret Bay promontory. The property is ideal for couples looking for a remote escape with all the luxuries of a beachfront home, including a stateof-the-art open-plan kitchen, private plunge pool, and expansive outdoor deck area. The beautiful master bedroom features furniture made from Dominican Red Cedar by local craftsmen. Guests enjoy dedicated villa hosts on call to provide discreet service, creating the perfect balance of romance, privacy, and pampering. sl

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JOY OF THE FEAST Chef Lisa Brooks takes her women-led

Lowcountry soul dining experience on a multi-city tour Written by Leo Desseaux

Chef, mentor, and entrepreneur Lisa Brooks, Executive Chef and CEO of Heart & Soul personal chef services, has announced her first culinary tour: Joy of the Feast. As part of this multi-city event, Brooks and a talented team of nationally known and rising Black women chefs will share signature Lowcountry coastal cuisine as part of a unique and intimate fine dining experience. Adding to the intrigue, the location of each venue will remain a surprise to registered attendees until 24 hours in advance of the event. While no two Joy of the Feast tour stops will be the same, guests in each city will be treated to a seven-course meal of impeccable dishes and drinks, complemented by Chef Lisa’s warm and welcoming dining style. Each dinner will feature a local female chef or mixologist who will create a signature dish or drink that reflects the tour city. “I am thrilled to share my Carolina-based cuisine and dining experience with those who have followed my career from a distance and those who are new to my work,” said Brooks. “It is near and dear to my heart to curate unforgettable dining experiences that are inviting, delicious, fun, and fabulous. I’ve been able to share this gift in the Charlotte region and look forward to spreading the magic in major cities across the country.” 64 slmag.net

Each event will implement social distancing and adhere to local and federal health guidelines for dining. The Joy of the Feast tour will visit the following cities: July 13, Atlanta, GA July 18, Houston, TX July 20, Dallas, TX July 24, Los Angeles, CA July 30, San Francisco CA August 5, Nashville, TN August 7, Chicago, IL August 11, Columbus, OH August 14, New York, NY August 18, Washington, DC August 20, Durham, NC August 26 & 27, Charlotte, NC Said Chef Brooks, “I am determined to keep my family’s legacy alive by pairing my Southern culture and family recipes with my classic French culinary training to create dishes that stem from my roots and expand beyond your imagination!” sl For more information and reservations, visit cheflisabrooks.com/joy-of-the-feast-tour.

www.sperrys.com

Annual Promotional Gift Card Sale July 12th in Belle Meade • July 13th in Cool Springs

Doors open at 7 am!

Purchase $150 in Sperry's Promo Cards for only $100! Supplies are LIMITED and this is a first come, first serve deal. *Must purchase at location, in person. Benefitting A Vintage Affair and Belle Meade Plantation. Cards valid through June 30, 2022. Maximum of $500 in gift cards per person. Belle Meade | 5109 Harding Pike | 615.353.0809

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Tennessee, meet Fifth Third Bank. Oh, you’ve already met! Some of these faces may look familiar to you. After all, these proven experts have an average of over 20 years of banking experience. Providing unparalleled local market knowledge, they’ve come together for one purpose—to help empower and propel your business into the future.

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PERFECT PAIRINGS The Westin Nashville hosts a quarterly wine dinner series Written by Dave Mahanes with wine descriptions courtesy of Arrow and Branch General Manager Josh Kretchmer / Photos by The Westin Nashville

In April, the Westin Nashville began a quarterly series of wine dinners pairing wines from the Napa Valley with a five-course meal prepared by Jake Strang, Westin Nashville’s Executive Chef. Each wine dinner will feature a different high-end vineyard from the Napa Valley. The wine pairing dinners take place at L28, the Westin’s covered outdoor rooftop bar overlooking the pool of their L27 rooftop bar with sweeping panoramic views of Nashville. The events are limited to 30 guests, and tickets are $250/per person and includes valet parking. I was fortunate enough to attend the first of these exquisite culinary experiences. For this first of the quarterly series, wines from the Arrow & Branch vineyards were featured. Located in the northeastern corner of Napa Valley, the vineyard was purchased in November 2007 by Steve & Seanne Contursi who share a great love for the wines of Bordeaux, particularly those produced with a large quantity of Cabernet Franc. The boutique winery only produces around 1,500 cases per year. Before the dinner started, the evening began with several canapes: a parmesan chive gougère, foie gras mousse and chervil on grilled brioche, and a grilled apricot wrapped in Nueske’s bacon. These were paired with 2020 Sauvignon Blanc “Stagecoach Vineyard”. The wine had an expressive bouquet of candied lime leaf, fresh blossoms, and white peach and exuded freshness and perfectly ripe fruits. The texture offers a core of citrus-laced

acidity that is balanced by a sense of creaminess achieved by the winemaking technique of sur lie aging. Highly exuberant in flavor, this wine finishes long with precision and minerality. The dinner began with the first course of poached octopus terrine with green strawberries, easter egg radish, and cucumber consommé—a truly original and inspired dish. This was paired with 2017 Sauvignon Blanc “Heritage Reserve”. This wine was a special treat as it is a single barrel wine made once a year producing only 21 cases. It is aged an extra nine months in neutral French oak which adds weight and texture to the wine. The “Heritage Reserve” has beautiful acidity with flavors of candied pineapple and limoncello as well as an extended lovely finish. The second course was the Duo of Duck consisting of a roasted breast, leg confit, spring pea & carrot tart, black currant, and hibiscus. This was a beautifully prepared dish, and was paired with the 2017 Red Wine “Right Bank Blend”. The 2017 Red Wine checks in as 45% Cabernet Franc, 28% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot and was aged for 20 months in 75% new French oak. It is a juicy, incredibly pure, delicious effort, offering loads of blue fruits, kirsch liqueur, violets, white flowers, and spice as well as full-bodied richness, a seamless, and a plump texture. It has a wonderful floral character, perfect balance, and a great finish. Drink it any time over the coming 15-20 years.

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The third course was a delectable dish of braised veal cheeks with black pepper barbine, morels, sunchoke, and gremolata. The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon “Black Label” was an outstanding accompaniment to this dish. This wine is a blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Merlot, and 2% Petit Verdot aged 20 months in 65% new French oak. It has a deep garnet-purple color and delivers exuberant black cherries, ripe plums and crème de cassis notes with nuances of fallen leaves, pencil lead, and charcoal plus a touch of dried herbs. Full-bodied, firm, and grainy, it packs in the black fruit and earthy layers, finishing with a mineral kick. For the fourth course, we were served a Black Hawk Farms ribeye with charred ramps, Yukon gold velvet, oca chips, and whipped bone marrow. It absolutely melted in your mouth. This hearty dish was paired with 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon “Vine Hill Ranch” made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Deep garnetpurple color, it offers up flamboyant scents of mocha, stewed plums, blackcurrant cordial, and licorice, with an undercurrent of kirsch, tar, lilacs, and tobacco leaf. The taut, densely laden, full-bodied palate is built like a brick house supported by firm, ripe, fine-grained tannins and seamless freshness, finishing long with a compelling savoriness. Only 162 cases were produced. The evening concluded with a dessert of dark chocolate cake with fennel pollen ganache, cocoa nib, hazelnut crumble and bacon rhubarb compote paired with 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon “Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard”. This wine offers a stunning bouquet of blackcurrants, tobacco, gravelly earth, chocolate, and lead pencil. Just pure class, with full-body, ultra-fine tannins, and awesome purity and elegance. For wine enthusiasts and foodies like me, the Westin Nashville Wine Dinners are not to be missed. sl THE WESTIN NASHVILLE September 4: Anomaly Vineyards November 5: Veuve Clicquot www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bnawi-the-westin-nashville 807 Clark Place, Nashville, TN 37203 / (615) 248-2800 ARROW & BRANCH www.arrowandbranch.com 3003 Hagen Road, Napa Valley, CA 94558 / (707) 200-3640

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Here are some other notable venues offering fine wine dinners and events in Nashville: YOLAN AT THE JOSEPH July 10: Sardinia Wine Tasting ($65/per person) July 24: Liguria Wine Tasting ($65/per person) August 7: Trentino-Aldo Adige Wine Tasting: White Wines ($65/per person) August 24: Trentino-Alto Adige Wine Tasting: Red Wines ($65/per person) www.yolannashville.com/events 403 4th Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37201 / (615) 231-0405 L’ETE DU VIN EVENTS July 23: A Taste of Piemonte: Featuring the Wines of Prunotto at Giovanni Restaurant ($300/per person) August 20: An Expression of Napa Valley: Antica Wines crafted by Antinori at E3 Chophouse ($300/per person) September 10: Toscana al Fresco: Explore the wines of Guado al Tasso at Johnny Haffner’s Porch ($325/per person) nashvillewineauction.com/summer-of-antinori GRAY AND DUDLEY AT THE 21C MUSEUM HOTEL Chef Matt Bell and Wine Director Matias Yerrick present a four-course dinner to accompany a line-up of wines sourced from the region. July 22: Destination Known: Wines of Sicily ($65/per person) August 19: Destination Known: Wines of Beaujolais ($65/per person) September 16: Destination Known: Wines of Slovenia ($65/per person) October 21: Destination Known: Wines of California (Rhône Style) ($65/per person) www.grayanddudley.com/destinationknown 221 2nd Avenue North, Nashville, TN 37201 / (615) 610-6460 BELLE MEADE HISTORIC SITE & WINERY Daily: Complimentary Wine Tasting-no reservation necessary Fridays at 12:00pm: Chef Inspired Food and Wine Pairings ($90/per person) Sunday-Friday: 12:00pm and 2:00pm: Food and Wine Pairings ($50/per person) By reservation: Private Tastings ($70/per person) https://visitbellemeade.com/wine-and-food-options/wine-and-food-pairing 110 Leake Avenue, Nashville, TN 37205 / (615) 356-0501 UNCORKED WINE FESTIVAL AT ADVENTURE SCIENCE CENTER September 18 www.uncorkedwinefestivals.com/uncorked-nashville VIP: ($80/per person) 7:00pm-11:00pm (extra hour of tasting, shorter lines, more time to explore, special commemorative wine glass and some special pours from select wineries during that first hour) General admission: ($65/per person) 8:00pm-11:00pm Enjoy over 100 wines and champagnes from across the globe, entertainment, gourmet food trucks, interactive exhibits and more! 800 Fort Negley Boulevard, Nashville, TN 37203

FRENCH CONNECTION The Wines of Bordeaux come to Nashville Written by Amy Atkinson with tips by Steve Taylor / Photos courtesy of Nashville Wine Auction

Bordeaux, France, is known for producing what many consider to be the most delicious—and prestigious—wines in the world. Each year, serious wine lovers and collectors eagerly await news about the latest Bordeaux vintage to make decisions about purchasing the wines for their cellars, restaurants, and investments. The recent worldwide pandemic has affected almost every industry in various ways. While the main influences on the production of French wine remained largely unaffected by the coronavirus—including soil, weather, traditions, terrain, etc.— how people can gather to taste and report on these wines was dramatically different this year. Typically, wine experts and collectors worldwide gather in Bordeaux, France, to taste the most recent vintage of Bordeaux. This year, because people were unable to travel, the tastings were distributed to significant wine-collecting cities around the world. Only ten cities in the United States were selected as sites to participate in the 2020 en primeur tasting, and Nashville was

one. En primeur wines are basically wine futures, and they are often still in the barrel. Many collectors and investors like to buy sought-after vintage wines this way before they are bottled. Twelve people were invited to attend this private Bordeaux tasting in Nashville. Many were members of the Nashville chapter of the Commanderie de Bordeaux, a few members of the wine industry, and two media members (Sophisticated Living’s own Dave Mahanes joined the tasting). This small group included some of Nashville’s most serious collectors of Bordeaux wines as well as sommeliers and investors. This tasting of 25 en primeur wines took place in the brandnew offices of the Nashville Wine Auction. The offices were designed by board member Marjorie Feltus Hawkins of Feltus Hawkins Design, and the tasting room houses bottles of wine that have been featured in past auctions over the decades. Original wine artwork donated by artist Revi Ferrer hangs waiting to be auctioned at l’Eté du Vin in October.

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Above, left to right: Alex Burch, Wine Director at Bastion; Dave Mahanes of Sophisticated Living; Steve Taylor of Nashville Wine Auction and Commanderie de Bordeaux; Group; Jenelle Engelson with Lipman Brothers.

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This tasting sounds like fun–and it was–but it was serious business too. Each bottle was introduced by Nashville Wine Auction CEO Holly Whaley and/or Commanderie de Bordeaux Grand Argentier and Nashville Chapter Maître David Morgan with a full PowerPoint review before tasting. Each participant took notes, had water, food, reports, and a spit cup (there WERE 25 wines to taste, after all). There were many questions, several comments, swirling of glasses, squinting of eyes as the colors were examined, and expressions of enjoyment as they tasted the numerous bottles of the traditional Bordeaux reds, but also Bordeaux white, Bordeaux Clairet, Bordeaux Moelleux, Bordeaux Rosé, Saint Emilion Grand Cru and many more. The Nashville contingent of wine experts loved the wines. The favorite amongst many was the Chateau Martinat 2020 Cotes de Bordeaux, with its scents of red fruit with ripe and silky tannins, while others leaned toward the 2020 Chateau Turcaud Bordeaux Rosé and also a white wine, the Chartron La Fleur. Of course, the wines were very young, as these wines are designed to age. All in all, just like many gatherings around a table with great wine and fun people who enjoy wine experiences, it was time well spent with friends both old and new. The specific and detailed wine notes were sent back to Bordeaux with an invitation for them to come back and visit Music City any time. We all agreed that Bordeaux goes well with whatever we have going on here in Nashville! THE NASHVILLE WINE AUCTION The Nashville Wine Auction is the country’s longest-running charity wine auction, and it exists to unite the wine community to help fund the fight against cancer. For more than forty years, some of Nashville’s most passionate and generous wine collectors have been gathering together to raise money to support several local non-profits who work in the area of treatment, research, and support in the cancer field. Since 1980, the Nashville Wine Auction has expanded from hosting just one main auction in the summer, its signature event, l’Eté du Vin, to organizing several events, auctions, and dinners throughout the year, raising more than $27 million to date. Additionally, while serious wine collectors continue to be attracted to the Nashville Wine Auctions, the Nashville-based nonprofit has expanded to offer experiences to those just starting to explore the fascinating world of wine through tastings and dinners.

(For details on upcoming events, the charities it serves, and how to get involved, go to www.NashvilleWineAuction.com ) Join the Nashville Wine Auction for the return of l’Eté du Vin live and in person on October 23, 2021! INTRO TO BORDEAUX Written by Steve Taylor, Nashville Wine Auction Board Member and Wine Collector INVESTING: • Educate yourself. Read. Subscribe to wine magazines and wine websites. Search for the latest wine articles in newspapers and popular magazines. • Invest in wines you want to drink. While a few people profit from investing in wines, most people invest in wines because they love to drink the wine. • For wines that hold their value, focus on established producers from the prominent wine regions—Bordeaux, Burgundy, Napa, Italy. • Unless you’ve recently won the lottery and money is not a factor, create a budget. Focus on paying a fair and “market” rate for wine. BUYING: • Develop a good relationship with a knowledgeable, local wine shop. Start there when buying wine. • Attend Nashville Wine Auction events and bid at the auctions. You will find great wines at fair prices, and the money goes for a great cause. • For U.S. wines, consider buying wines direct from the winery. Many hard-to-find California and Oregon wines can only be purchased directly from the winery. • When possible, visit wine country and buy wines while visiting. The provenance of the wine will be good, and it’s fun meeting the winery staff. STORING: • If you plan to age wine, you should buy a wine storage unit. They come in all sizes and styles. They are much like a refrigerator, except they hold wine at 55 degrees and 70% humidity. • Develop a good inventory and tracking system. Some people simply create a spreadsheet. Many serious collectors use an online site called “CellarTracker”. sl

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Belmond Charleston Place

LOWCOUNTRY LUXE

Written by Christy Waller of CW Luxury Travel / Photos Courtesy of Charleston Place, a Belmond Hotel, Charleston and Emeline In Historic Charleston, change has long been an unwelcome stranger. But the last 15 years of growth have culminated in an infusion of youth, wealth, and a new modern culture. Southern charm and boundary-pushing art are just part of what makes Charleston the pride of the Lowcountry. It would be easy to spend an entire week exploring Charleston. Its architecture, history, and food scene have earned the city a reputation as the quintessential Southern city. You could spend day after day making your way from one fantastic restaurant to the next and walking the scenic city streets every night. Let me detail a few of my favorite spots and places to stay, whether you are in Charleston for a long weekend or the week. A horse-drawn carriage ride is a pleasant way to get your bearings in a new city. From here, you can pinpoint your “must-go” spots, ensuring that you make the most of your time. After the

tour, check out City Market, where you will find many locally crafted treasures. After you have finished some shopping, you must make your way to Rainbow Row to admire the series of colorful historic buildings dating back to the 18th century. While walking the cobbled streets, take in Charleston’s notable architecture; the city boasts the most extensive collection of historic buildings in the world outside of Rome. Finally, if time allows, you must visit one of Charleston’s neighboring beaches. Sullivan’s Island and Folly Beach are both scenic drives from downtown Charleston with expansive sandy beaches and plenty of parking for a day trip. Visitors to the islands will enjoy uncrowded beaches and lots of local fares. Charleston is home to some of the South’s finest restaurants owned and operated by some of the most notable chefs in the world. The restaurant scene is bar-none one of the best I have ever experienced. See below for a list of a few of my favorites.

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Belmond Charleston Place

Hotel Emeline

CHARLESTON PLACE, A BELMOND HOTEL, CHARLESTON / WHERE SOUTHERN CHARM MEETS TIMELESS ELEGANCE The Belmond Charleston Place is a hotel that combines historic design with a warm Southern embrace. The hotel is in the heart of downtown Charleston, in the Historic District, and within walking distance of all the major attractions. The Belmond Charleston Place has effortlessly blended Southern hospitality with luxury touches, including a leading-edge spa and innovative cuisine. Guests will enjoy an array of amenities while staying at The Belmond Charleston, such as the undisputed jewel of the hotel, its rooftop infinity pool. Featuring a stunning retractable glass roof, you will feel like you are standing on top of the world. When not basking in the sun, guests can enjoy The Shops at Charleston Place, where an exquisite collection of world-famous stores are nestled in Charleston’s downtown shopping district. When not shopping and exploring, you must try Palmetto Café located in the hotel for breakfast or lunch. Enjoy giant picture windows overlooking downtown in a stunning gardenstyle setting. Charleston Grill is a world-class restaurant where jazz meets mouth-watering cuisine inside the hotel. Dishes are divided into three categories: Roots & Stems, Waves & Marsh, and Field & Pasture. Each type fulfills the restaurant’s prestigious AAA Four Diamond Award for food excellence. The hotel will also gladly prepare gourmet picnic baskets for guests to take to the city’s beaches or other enchanting locations. EMELINE “Whatever your speed, regardless of the time of day. A coffee, a snack, a meal, a libation. Once you walk through those doors at 181 Church Street, Emeline will satisfy your cravings.” —Emeline Throughout the last century, 181 Church Street has had many iterations, guests, and experiences, all contributing to Emeline’s unique identity. Emeline is a boutique hotel located in Charleston’s historic district. This boutique hotel is full of grace, grit, and determination. At Emeline, every room and nook has been curated for comfort and style. While the warm hospitality from the staff at Emeline will immediately make you feel at home, you will find yourself transformed into a luxury lifestyle with unique features and refined touches. From the beginning of your stay at Emeline, the concierge will immediately customize your visit from start to finish, even for your furry friend. The experience at Emeline truly sets it apart from the Charleston experience. Guest can enjoy the use of custom Emeline Bikes to tour the city and take in all the sights. If you are looking to explore more of the Lowcountry, borrow one of the hotel’s

Countryman Mini Cooper house cars for your daily adventure. If you need help mapping out your day in the Lowcountry, the concierge will make sure you visit the not-to-be-missed experiences. Frannie & The Fox inside Emeline offers an indoor or outdoor dining experience featuring wood-fired regional dishes with Italian sensibilities. Do not miss the vast array of specialty cocktails and exciting wines. For a light bite, visit Clerks Coffee Co. for a downto-earth inviting dining experience, or grab what you need as you head out onto the cobblestones. Guests will not want to miss Emeline’s curated Keep Shop, where all items have been selected with care and character from the local region. Inside, you will delve into a rare luxury retail experience featuring various clothing, accessories, home goods, print designs, and more. Most all items are crafted exclusively for the Keep Shop by favorite makers, artists, and artisans. It is truly the little surprises that make this place sing; working record players in every room, a resident chocolate-truffle chef, a discreet panel leading to a speakeasy behind the bar to the beautifully curated gift shop—Emeline is special. WHERE TO EAT Charleston Grill: Renowned restaurant in the Charleston Place Hotel. 224 King Street / (843) 577-4522 Circa 1886: A highlight at the Wentworth Mansion. 149 Wentworth Street / (843) 853-7828 FIG (Food Is Good): Featuring Mediterranean-American fare prepared with local ingredients. 232 Meeting Street / (843) 805-5900 Felix: Parisian-inspired small plates, creative cocktails, and a fabulous atmosphere. 550 King Street / (843) 203-6297 Husk: Located in downtown Charleston, Husk transforms the essence of Southern food. 76 Queen Street / (843) 577-2500 Peninsula Grill: One of the most sophisticated restaurants in town. 112 N. Market Street / (843) 723-0700 Slightly North of Broad: A SoHo-style interior meets such Lowcountry fare as shrimp and grits. 192 E. Bay Street / (843) 723-3424 sl

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I N C O L L A B O R AT I O N W I T H VA N D E R B I LT- I N G R A M C A N C E R C E N T E R

a fashionable fight for ovarian cancer research

M O N D AY, S E P T E M B E R 1 3 , 2 0 2 1 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Central Time Hilton Nashville Green Hills 3801 Cleghorn Avenue Give.VanderbiltHealth.org/ChicAwearness Chic Awearness

@chicawearness

All proceeds will benefit ovarian cancer initiatives at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center.

TRÉS CHIC Marci Houff shares with us what’s new with Chic Awearness

Interview by Melissa Mahanes / Photo by Ashley Hylbert Founded by Ovarian Cancer survivor and advocate Marci Houff in 2013, Chic Awearness has been Nashville’s only event to support Ovarian Cancer awareness and raise critical research funds. 2021 brings an exciting collaboration with the VanderbiltIngram Cancer Center. To date, Chic Awearness has raised over $500,000 to support the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center for innovative and promising ovarian cancer research. Chic Awearness funds are directed toward those early investigative efforts most likely to achieve a breakthrough in early diagnosis and improved survival. Ovarian Cancer is the deadliest of gynecologic cancers, and there is no early detection test available. Most women are diagnosed in the later stages where the prognosis is poor. Through the work of the Chic Awearness Board and its supporters, we are seeking to change these outcomes. Marci tells us about her commitment to raising funds and awareness of Ovarian Cancer and shares details about the next Chic Awearness Fashion Show on September 13th at The Hilton Nashville Green Hills. Melissa Mahanes: Marci, tell us what is new with Chic Awearness! Marci Houff: After a year impacted by Covid-19, Chic Awearness is back bigger and better than ever with a beautiful new venue, a real runway for our fashion show, and a program that is certain to inspire! MM: Please share the news about your new partnership with Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center (VICC). MH: Yes! This is a huge win for Chic Awearness and our supporters! The new partnership will allow for synergies that were previously unavailable. These include more input on the use of funds at VICC, more accountability demonstrating research outcomes tied directly to Chic Awearness donated funds, expansion of our outreach to include patients, alumni, and established donors from Vanderbilt. We also now have the full support of Philanthropic Services at Vanderbilt, being one of only nine internal functions supported by VICC and the only event that involves female cancer research. MM: Congratulations and thank you, Marci, we can’t wait!

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SOPHISTICATED WEDDING

Newly married and newly Nashvillians Photos by Kathy Thomas

Lydia Lancaster and Adam Krauss were married on November 7, 2020, at The Hermitage Hotel. About ten days before the wedding, new Covid-19 requirements were implemented across the city, not allowing all of the guests to be seated in the Hermitage Hotel’s Veranda for the ceremony. Thanks to their determination to move forward, wedding (and event) planner Bruce Pittman’s talents, and their great A/V team through High Tone Entertainment, they could restructure the ceremony and maintain social distancing guidelines. Their guests were extremely gracious and understanding of the guidelines. They hosted a fun welcome party the evening prior at ACME Feed and Seed rooftop, with an after-party at Skye at Sheraton Grand Hotel to kick off the weekend’s celebrations. Lydia wore a modern and sophisticated gown with bolero purchased at Maggie Louise Bridal in Memphis. The bridal party comprised of Lydia’s closest friends from dental school and 78 slmag.net

residency and her best childhood friend from Southeast Missouri. The Best Man was Adam’s best friend since the fourth grade, and the groomsmen included his best friend from college at OSU and two of his closest friends from Texas. Lydia’s niece and nephew were the junior bridesmaid and groomsman, and Adam’s niece and nephew served as the flower girl and ring bearer, respectively. After loving the experience of getting married in Nashville, they are grateful to now officially be Nashvillians. This recent move allows the bride to move closer to her hometown of Dexter, Missouri. After getting married in Music City, they quickly realized what a great town this is and relocated from Columbus, Ohio. Lydia is a practicing orthodontist in the Nashville area, and Adam is a continuous improvement consultant. After a honeymoon in California Wine Country, the new Nashvillians live here with their 1 ½-year-old black standard poodle Hugo. sl

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SOPHISTICATED WEDDING

Third Time is the Charm Photos by Mary Rosenbaum

Meredith Manning and Thomas Griswold rescheduled their wedding not once, twice, but three times to make their guests feel safe and enjoy the wedding of their dreams. They married at West End United Methodist Church with the reception at Cheekwood Botanical Gardens. The Mother of the Bride, Lisa Manning is an avid gardener, so Dori Waller of The Social Office helped bring that into the wedding decor. There was a table in the loggia with Lisa’s love of gardening in mind. Buttercup ranunculus floated above a four-tiered ice sculpture with champagne for the escort card table in the cocktail tent. The bar fronts and stage backdrop were custom made from the design of the liner from the invitations from You’re Invited. Lisa expressed their sentiments to the attendees with “The Language of 80 slmag.net

Flowers” in all floral components of the bouquets, memorial, and reception flowers. She grew the edible flowers for the salad and dessert plates to enhance the catered dinner by Kristen Winston. The wedding party was their immediate family, with the Maid of Honor being Meredith’s sister and the Best Man being Thomas’s father. Meredith wore a Reem Acra “Elegance of the Stars” gown purchased from Warren Barron Bridal in Dallas. They had two incredible honeymoons planned: one to Cartagena, Colombia, and another to Madeira, Portugal, both canceled due to COVID. They love to travel and are excited to take one of these adventures as soon as possible! Thomas is Managing Director for a financial consulting firm, and Meredith works as a private educator. They live in Dallas, Texas, with their Rottweiler, Max. sl

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A NAIL STUDIO FOR MEN ONLY

LUXURY MEN'S GROOMING SPA SPECIALIZING IN CUSTOM HAND AND FOOT TREATMENTS

1025 17th AVENUE SOUTH NASHVILLE, TN 37212 (615) 975-2201 musiccitymancave.com

THE TALE OF TALES

Fable Lounge creates their own international phenomenon Story by Ben Powell / Photo by Lillian Boeskool

“Welcome to Fable After Dark. We here at the Fable Lounge hope that you are staying safe, healthy, happy, and indulging in all the things you used to do before the downward spiral of 2020. I’d like for us to remember a time in the days of yore. It was Friday, March 13th, 2020, a full moon was in the sky—daylight savings weekend was upon us. The mayor of our fair city had made an announcement that it was not safe to go out. As a people, as a society, as a great city, we all collectively made the same decisions to cancel our reservations at the Fable Lounge and buy toilet paper. So, we cut the staff down accordingly, and a gentleman by the name of Quincy casually rolls in with 39 of his closest friends. Now normally, we’d be excited when a charter bus rolls into the Fable Lounge except for that particular moment, of that particular day, at that particular time. So, I’m downstairs trying to help the bartender out (unsuccessfully, I might add) as Quincy’s trying to get shots or something to drink, and I said, “my friend, I can barely make a vodka water back here.” Meanwhile, at the end of the bar is a young lady by the name of Mae who wants to spend her last night in Nashville here at the Fable Lounge before she moves to Arizona to help take care of her ailing father. She turns to Quincy, and she says “you know what you want? The green Chartreuse”. Now a glazed expression appears over his face, and I said: “My friend-In the 1600s, a pandemic ravages through Europe. Carthusian Monks from the French Alps, sworn to silence, create an elixir of 120 botanicals and herbs to help combat the pandemic of the day”. I don’t know if Quincy was inspired by that story if he was just thirsty but he says “46 of them”-for himself, his 39 closest friends, Mae, her friend and myself, and everyone else at the bar. Quarantine happened, and we cry ourselves to sleep over the mounds of toilet paper we bought only to watch the “Tiger King” to feel better about our lot in life. June comes and Quincy navigates through the rocky shoals of the pandemic paradise to return to the Fable Lounge and he says to me: Quincy: “Hey, Ben, you got any more of that, um, elixir of green Chartreuse?” Ben: “Yeah, what about it?” Quincy:“Because all my friends that took it didn’t get Covid” Ben: “That’s amazing, the other six people, I’m one of them, didn’t get it either.” Quincy:“You’ve gotta start marketing that.” 84 slmag.net

Ben: “Well, I feel like that’s a lawsuit. But I tell you what, whilst we are here at the Fable Lounge, we can tell “The Tale of Tales” as a beacon of hope during these dark times.” Quincy takes it as a personal challenge, and as he is casually running for Congress in the 5th District of the State of Tennessee on the National Level, and can casually bring in 39 of his closest friends, hundreds of people come in to hear “The Tale of Tales” including a fabulous group of ladies from Miami, and he says to them, “Hey, Ben, you gotta do the green Chartreuse thing”. I’m like “my friend, they want tequila, they don’t want anything to do with this” He says, “no, no tell the story” I’m like, “very well...Good evening my name is Ben-in 1605 green... it takes off. Hundreds of thousands of people have now heard “The Tale of Tales”, never once propagated by us, but told to everyone, so eventually, members of Chartreuse International reach out and very politely ask, “who are you people?” to which I tell them the “The Tale of Tales”. So, you need to understand in a restaurant like ours, we would be doing good to move one bottle of green Chartreuse a month, we’re now moving a case a week. So, they ask, “would you be interested in doing Chartreuse Day on May 16th-05/16 (1605)?” and I say “that’s a Sunday this year, and I’m usually in recovery, but I tell you what, let me ask around and see what we can do.” So, I reach out to Mae in Arizona, whose father is doing amazing, by the way, because she gave him the green Chartreuse, and I explained to her that her tale as the Emerald Goddess has been woven into the fabric of Fable in the tapestry of all time, and has been heard by hundreds of thousands of people as an inspiration during these dark times. She agrees to come do the shoot; a celebrity photographer agrees to come do the shoot as well. Quincy is supposed to be at the shoot, but unfortunately gets called away for political obligation. So, I had to step in as the male model we do the shoot, it is absolutely amazing, and come to find out no one’s actually interested in coming to Fable Lounge on a Sunday for the green Chartreuse. So, we change it up, and instead of celebrating the international phenomenon that is known as green Chartreuse, we here at the Fable Lounge did the Emerald Ball on May 15th, Saturday, and it was the event of a lifetime because when we think back to March 13th, 2020 that began with restrictions, quarantine, social distancing, masks and on the eve of the Emerald Ball, all restrictions were lifted, and that my friend, is how everyone lives Happily Ever After.” sl Please see p. 89 for pictures from the Emerald Ball. Fable Lounge / 114 28th Avenue North / Nashville, TN 37203 / (615) 645-5150 / fablelounge.com

Quincy McKnight, Mae James and Ben Powell

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Big Machine Music City Grand Prix

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SOPHISTICATED SOCIETY Presented by

July 23 23

L’ETE DU VIN EVENT: “A Taste of Piemonte” at Giovanni Ristorante featuring the wines of Prunotto. Tickets: nashvillewineauction.com/lete-du-vin FULL MOON PICKIN’ PARTY at Percy Warner Equestrian Center at 11:00pm

August 6-8 10 20 22

BIG MACHINE MUSIC CITY GRAND PRIX (see p. 93) EQUAL CHANCE FOR EDUCATION’S 4TH ANNUAL SALSA FOR SCHOLARSHIPS at Plaza Mariachi at 5:30pm Celebrate and support the ECE scholars with a night of dancing and fun. Night includes salsa dance lessons and live music with drinks, dinner, and special activities available for purchase. Sponsorship opportunities are available, and General Admission tickets are $30/per person at www.equalchanceforeducation.com/salsa L’ETE DU VIN EVENT: “An Expression of Napa Valley” at E3 Chophouse featuring Antica wines crafted by Antinori. Tickets: nashvillewineauction.com/lete-du-vin NASHVILLE REPETORY THEATRE’S BROADWAY BRUNCH at City Winery from 10:30am-1:30pm Honoring Vicki Horne with the Ovation Award Co-chairs: Julie Schneider and Tracy Wade / Honorary Chair: Kellie Pickler Dress: Casual chic / Tickets: www.broadwaybrunch.org $200/per person

Antinori Family

September 10 11 Until 12 13

Margaret Macdonald Mackintosh, The May Queen, 1900 at Frist Art Museum

L’ETE DU VIN EVENT: Private Dinner on Johnny Haffner’s front porch celebrating the wines of Guado al Tasso. Tickets: nashvillewineauction.com/lete-du-vin CHUKKERS FOR CHARITY 25th Annual Polo Match benefiting Rochelle Center and Saddle Up! Hosted by Orrin Ingram at Riverview Farm in Franklin, TN Co-Chairs: Matt Paco and Nina Lindley. Tickets: www.chukkersforcharity.net (Please see ad p. 30) DESIGNING THE NEW: CHARLES RENNIE MACKINTOSH AND THE GLASGOW STYLE at Frist Art Museum This is a touring exhibition co-organized by Glasgow Museums and The American Federation of the Arts. The exhibition comprises works from the collections of Glasgow City Council (Museums and Collections), with loans from Scottish collections and private lenders. CHIC AWEARNESS at The Hilton Green Hills from 6:30-8:30pm (Please see p. 77 to read more about Chic Awearness and the organization’s founder, Marci Houff)

RECURRING

Thursdays-Sundays in August/September SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK’S TWELFTH NIGHT at Onec1ty The performances take place each week from Thursday to Sunday from. There will also be performances on Thursday, September 16 and Friday, September 17, at Academy Park in Franklin. This season will feature the play Twelfth Night. Performances begin at 7:00pm, with Pre-Show festivities beginning at 5:30. Food and drink vendors open at 5:15pm. Admission is free, but a $10 donation is suggested. Tickets: www.nashvilleshakes.org/shakespeare-in-the-park Thursdays in August DOG NIGHTS OF SUMMER at Cheekwood sponsored by Mercedes-Benz of Music City Cheekwood goes to the dogs every Thursday from August 5-26, 2021, from 5:00pm to 9:00pm. This event is family-friendly and dog-friendly. All pups must be on a leash. As a safety precaution water fountains are currently not running; don’t forget water for your pups!

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SYMPHONY FASHION SHOW

The Schermerhorn Symphony Center was a muchmissed venue and grand host for the Symphony Fashion Show. The fabulous pink Eiffel Tower was only the beginning of Bruce Pittman’s magical décor taking guests to Paris for Zang Toi’s “Paris, My ” Fashion Show. Johnny Haffner created a sublime boxed dinner wrapped with a satin bow. Sophisticated Living coordinated gift bags that held a heavenly slice of Chocolate Torte from Café Intermezzo, macarons from Le Macaron, popcorn from KiNiMi Pop. Trés Chic.

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1) Carolyn Taylor, Louise Bryan, Rowena Dolor Cuffe 2) Janice Elliott Morgan, Co-Chair Angela Bostelman, Zang Toi, Co-Chair Sarah Reisner, Sandra Lipman 3) Lydia Howarth, Jennie Smith, Dana Sherrard, Martha Ingram, Tooty Bradford and Clare Armistead 4) Ashley Rosen and Barbara Burns 5) Barbara Bovender, Annette Eskind, Nan Parrish 6) Zang Toi and Laurie Seabury 7) Laura Niewold and Lisa Manning 8) Jay Joyner and Donna Joyner 9) Melissa Mahanes, Emily Noel, Sandra Lipman and Laurie Eskind

FABLE LOUNGE

Fable Lounge hosted an homage to green Chartreuse at an evening inspired by Mae, Quincy and “The Tale of Tales”. Read all about the legend in the words of Ben Powell on p. 84. (May 15)

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1) Upstairs at Fable Lounge 2) Ben Powell and Mae James 3) Quincy McKnight entertains 4) Marcy Pruett (r) and friends 5) Emerald Ball attendees 6) Mae James (r) and friends 7) Green Chartreuse on display 8) Ben Powell shares ‘The Tale of Tales” and green Chartreuse 9) The Mahanes chat with Mae James 10) Emerald Ball attendees

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SWAN BALL AUCTION

(Photos 1-6) The Swan Ball Auction hosted a preview event at Cheekwood to allow attendees to view the “Tiny House” built by Huseby Homes. Nichole and Craig Huseby and designer Bill Johnson led tours of the exceptional auction item. Andrews Transportation Group provided a Land Rover Defender to tempt bidders to bid on a new set of wheels. (Photos 7-13) The Swan Ball Auction was held virtually with a broadcasted live auction. Parties were hosted around Nashville. Emily and Mark Humphreys hosted an intimate soirée with special touches provided by Bruce Pittman. The auction was on multiple TVs and computer screens throughout their home to allow bidders to participate in the Live Auction.

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1) Tori Wimberly, Swan Ball Co-chair Janette Smith 2) Swan Ball Co-Chair Janette Smith, Swan Ball Auction Co-Chair Tracy Frazier, Julia Morris 3) Luis and Viviana Fernandez 4) Larry Papel, Keith Frazier, Dave Mahanes 5) Swan Ball Co-Chair Mary Catherine McClellan, Mindy Jacoway, Swan Ball Co-Chair Janette Smith 6) Bill Johnson, Nichole Huseby, Craig Huseby 7) Betsy Wills, Sylvia Bradbury, Susan Simons, Vicky Horne 8) Table set by Bruce Pittman at the Humphreys 9) Karla Calderon, Allison Cotton, Janie Berry and Tyler Moody 10) Mark and Emily Humphreys 11) Ashley Henry and Ashley Rosen 12) Swans atop boxed dinners from Kristen Winston 13) Dave and Melissa Mahanes

FOUR SEASONS PRIVATE RESIDENCES OWNERS CELEBRATE TOPPING OUT

From the amenity deck at the neighboring 222 Building, overlooking the Four Seasons Private Residences site on 1st Ave., owners enjoyed food and libations from The Rutledge at Four Seasons Nashville (one of two featured restaurants within the project), music by Kevin Monahan, and custom Four Seasons treats by Baked in Nashville. Vroom Vroom Balloon, A Village of Flowers, and White Door Events helped create stunning décor. A speech was given by MarieLaure Frère, Director of Sales for Four Seasons Private Residences, and Dean Stratouly, of developer Congress Group, to owners. Development partners Timothy Haskin of AECOM Capital Real Estate and Michael Lynch of Junius Real Estate Partners were in attendance. (May 27) 3

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1) Larry and Camilla Jackson 2) Jacque and Chip Connor 3) Bill and Janet Warfield 4) Marie-Laure Frère of Four Seasons and Dean Stratouly of Congress Group 5) Linda and Don Ware 6) David and Jan Brandon 7) Mason Revelette, homeowner and owner of The Rutledge at Four Seasons 8) Tiffani and Rob Day 9) Darrin Erdahl and Judy Keener

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STEEPLECHASE ART UNVEILING

The Iroquois Steeplechase recently hosted an unveiling of the official artwork of the 80th Anniversary of the Iroquois Steeplechase for Trustees, Race Committee, and sponsors. Iroquois Steeplechase President Marianne Byrd unveiled artist Topper Williams’ painting to serve as the cover of the official program book. She painted from a photograph taken by photographer Tod Marks. A second painting was unveiled entitled “Mr. Hot Stuff and his Groom” and was painted by Williams from a photograph taken by local photographer Brenda Black. (June 4)

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1) Andrew Byrd and Nelson Andrews 2) Hank and Mary Brockman 3) Cara and Andrew Jacks 4) Kathy Green, Dave Green, Holly Hirschman 5) Casey Kupper, Tara Moore, Susan Andrews, Hannah Garrett 6) Iroquois Steeplechase President Marianne Byrd and Andrew Byrd 7) Mary Brockman and Bill Armistead 8) Tom Magli, Bill Haggard, Alex Wade 9)Iroquois Steeplechase Official Artist Topper Williams

STEEPLECHASE AT DIAMOND CELLAR

Guests were invited to the Iroquois Steeplechase shopping event hosted at Diamond Cellar along with Gus Mayer and Levy’s. Attendees were able to browse and buy the showcased merchandise from Diamond Cellar, Gus Mayer and Levy’s to put together their Steeplechase look. A portion of the proceeds from the event was donated to the Iroquois Steeplechase and the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt. (June 10)

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1) Clark Palombo and Chase Doscher 2) Jennifer Trsinar Jezewski and Jordan Hill 3) Lyn Plantiga 4) Megan and Drake Prange 5) Melissa and Dave Mahanes 6) Ron and Kimberly Carlson 7) Sammi Moore and Milton White 8) David Levy and Ellen Levy of Levy’s, Alex Johnson and Meghan McKenzie of Diamond Cellar, Sarah Gardner and Sam Phypers Simmons of Gus Mayer 9) Susan Andrews, Megan McKenzie of Diamond Cellar, Iroquois Steeplechase President Marianne Byrd 10) Wes Davis, Marci Kleinrock, Ellen Levy of Levy’s

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MUSIC CITY GRAND PRIX

The Grand Hyatt Nashville’s pool deck was the setting for the RPM and Founders Clubs. Remarks from Grand Hyatt Nashville’s General Manager Marc Sternagel and Big Machine CEO and President Scott Borchetta stirred up enthusiasm for the event. (June 16) 4

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1) Kevin Crumbo and Mark Kate 2) Bonnie and Gary Crigger pose with BMMCGP Trophy 3) Greg and Erin Cooley 4) Scott Borchetta, Mark Borchetta, Chris Parker, mark Crews 5) Bill and Sharon Piper, Rose Grindstaff, Dave Mahanes 6) Grand Hyatt Pool Deck 7) Scott Borchetta and Chris Parker 8) Ron Wise, Kent Russell, Caroline Fisher 9) Marjorie Feltus Hawkins, Jeanette Feltus, Rose Grindstaff 10) Mary Barton, Matt Crews, Marjorie Feltus Hawkins, Rose Grindstaff

Pictured (L-R): Radio Host Shawn Parr, Lady A’s Charles Kelley, President & CEO of Big Machine Label Group Scott Borchetta, Carly Pearce, Executive Vice President of Big Machine Distillery Mark Borchetta, and CEO of Music City Grand Prix Matt Crews

START YOUR ENGINES

Compiled by Melissa Mahanes/Photo by Jason Kempin / Getty Images for Big Machine Label Group The streets of downtown are about to come alive with the sounds of music, food, and racing. The Big Machine Music City Grand Prix®—a three-day international festival running August 6-8. It will be staged on a temporary 2.17-mile grand prix circuit in Nashville and around the Nissan Stadium campus. The course will cross the Cumberland River via the Korean Veterans Memorial Bridge, making the Music City Grand Prix the only current event in motorsports to cross over a major body of water. Music City Grand Prix President Chris Parker explained “In addition to a weekend of racing, attendees can look forward to the best Nashville has to offer, including live music performances by top artists, best-in-class food experiences and entertainment that centers on speed in a way only Music City can serve up.” There will be an unprecedented selection of premium hospitality options, ranging from on-track suites for groups of 20-50, and the Starting Line and Nissan Stadium Eastside Clubs.

“I’ve worked for decades bringing racing and music together and I can’t think of a better way to welcome the IndyCars back to Nashville than honoring them with our namesake,” said Scott Borchetta, President and CEO of Big Machine, Title Sponsor for the event. “My very first race was an IndyCar race, the California 500, and this brings it full circle. I truly believe that we’ve created the most exciting new weekend in racing anywhere in the world and Nashville is going to roll out the red carpet. This will be a party you don’t want to miss.” Entertainment announced to date include Alan Jackson, Brooks & Dunn, Tyler Farr, Vince Neil, Danielle Bradbery, Justin Moore, Callista Clark, Riley Green, and Jamey Johnson. More exciting announcements about additions to the lineup will be rolling out over the coming weeks. sl For more information on the Music City Grand Prix visit musiccitygp.com or follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @musiccitygp. Hashtags: #MusicCityGP #BigMachineMCGP. Ticket packages are on sale now. Fans can purchase Music City Grand Prix three-day ticket packages, starting at $119, and festival add-ons at musiccitygp.com/ tickets, Ticketmaster.com or by calling the Tennessee Titans’ ticket office at 615-565-4650. #MusicCityGP #BigMachineMCGP

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GOOD TO GOGH

Written by Melissa Mahanes / Photo courtesy Immersive van Gogh If you are a fan of the recent Lily Collins Netflix hit “Emily in Paris,” you are familiar with her visit to the Atelier des Lumières, where she stepped into 360-degree illuminations of van Gogh’s paintings projected on the walls and floors. “Immersive: van Gogh” is coming to Nashville this November, though the venue is still a secret. Ticket holders will receive an email with the venue name and location once it is made public. Renowned for transforming venues into unforgettable art experiences, “Immersive van Gogh” strives to highlight the unique architecture of its spaces while integrating influences from its history and community. The immersive virtual reality (VR) exhibits of Vincent van Gogh’s paintings go deep inside the mind and works of van Gogh and bring them to life in a creative new way. The show features 300,000 cubic feet of flawless projections animating van Gogh’s oeuvre. The installation includes the Mangeurs de Pommes de Terre (The Potato Eaters, 1885), Nuit Étoilée (Starry Night, 1889), Les Tournesols (Sunflowers, 1888), and La Chambre à Coucher (The Bedroom, 1889), and many more. Artistic Director Italian Massimiliano Siccardi has created a presentation unlike any other. A former ballet dancer, Siccardi has manipulated images within the works that change, move, 96 slmag.net

grow, and shrink, covering the entirety of the rooms’ walls and floors. The pieces are deconstructed so that viewers can see in extreme detail the skill and energy that van Gogh put into every brushstroke, stroke of paint, or scrape of his knife. Participants can stand or sit (or even lay down) to gaze at massive projected images of around forty notable works by van Gogh. The dark silhouettes created by the other visitors add to the theatricality. “People are the central element. Not only can you see the silhouettes of others, but we erected large mirrors on the floor so people can see themselves against the images on the walls. Everyone is included in the installation” states Siccardi. A soundtrack accompanies the exhibition by composer Luca Longobardi. He describes the experience as “the classic is given new nourishment, written anew, again and again, styled inside our production, it is something alive and contemporary. All this, together with a sophisticated selection of pop songs that could be played on the radio even today, puts in our minds the seed of intimacy, moving us all, in spite of cultural or age differences, towards a wider sense of belonging.” sl Tickets are available online at https://tickets.nashvillevangogh.com. Children: $30, Basic: $50, Basic Flex: $55, Premium Flex: $60, VIP: $75 and VIP Flex: $100 (ticket prices are also based on times) Runs: November 4, 2021-February 5, 2022