VILAGALLO IS A SPANISH CLOTHING BRAND THAT SEEKS TO DESIGN CLOTHING THAT IS “CLASSIC WITH A TWIST”. FROM THE VERY BEGINNING, VILAGALLO HAS BEEN DRIVEN BY FEMININE TAILORING MIXED WITH A KALEIDOSCOPE OF GLOBAL REFERENCES. PATTERED SILKS, MIXED FABRICATIONS, AND DIVERSE PRINTS SPEAK OF THE VILAGALLO IDENTITY: CREATING A MODERN TAKE ON POPULAR CLASSICS.
An era of significant wealth transfer has begun.
Strategic gifting to family members before you pass can be an effective strategy for providing for your family’s needs while creating your lasting legacy. And if done thoughtfully, it can provide tax efficiency benefits for your estate plan at the same time.
Whether leveraging the annual gift tax exclusion, making accelerated gifts to a 529 plan, or using medical and educational income tax exclusions, your seasoned team of private wealth management professionals at Commerce Trust will collaborate to assess various tax-efficient giving strategies and assist with providing an impactful, thoughtfully timed plan for giving to your family that aligns with your long-term wealth goals.
Through our holistic, team-based approach to servicing private wealth clients, your team of Commerce Trust estate and tax planning, investment management, and trust administration professionals can help turn your success into a lasting legacy that starts today.
Secure your legacy by contacting Commerce Trust at www.commercetrustcompany.com/estateplanning.
By Scott LaPresta, CTFA, Senior Vice President, Director of Private Client Advisors, Commerce Trust, and Amy Stiglic, CTFA, Senior Vice President, Market Executive, Kansas City, Commerce Trust
Gifting to family members provides for their needs while advancing your estate plan. In addition to the benefits your relatives receive, strategically gifting may decrease your transfer tax liability by lowering the value of your estate. Below are five methods to maximize the value of family gifts for donors and recipients.
1. Annual gift exclusion
For tax year 2025, the IRS allows you to gift up to $19,000 tax-free to as many people as you want, and married couples can give up to $38,000 to an individual without triggering a taxable gift.
Both recipients and donors can benefit from annual gifts. In contrast to an inheritance, recipients can enjoy the gift immediately without losing any value to pay transfer taxes.
Donors can coordinate annual gifts to achieve estate planning objectives like potentially decreasing their estate tax liability by lowering the value of their estate.
By making an accelerated gift to a qualified tuition program (QTP) like a 529 plan, you can contribute up to five times the annual exclusion ($95,000 for individuals and $190,000 for married couples in 2025) in a single year tax-free.
This strategy can provide significant value for those aspiring to attend college while lowering the value of the donor’s estate.
The 2025 federal lifetime estate and gift tax exemption amount is $13.99 million for individuals and is effectively doubled to $27.98 million for married couples.
This means the total value of one’s estate plus any taxable gifts can generally be transferred tax-free up to that amount. Using the lifetime exemption now, at its historically high level, may lower your eventual estate tax liability.
The medical exclusion is another way to give a gift to family members by paying for their medical expenses without triggering a taxable gift. The payment must be made directly to the care provider and be solely used for qualifying medical expenses as defined by the IRS. Donors can also pay for health insurance under the medical exclusion, but payments for medical care that are reimbursed by the recipient’s insurance company do not qualify.
Gifting to family members may seem straightforward, but care is needed to ensure the value of the gift is not diminished by taxes. If gifting is a priority for you, contact Commerce Trust at www.commercetrustcompany.com/estateplanning to learn how our tax management,* estate planning, and education planning professionals collaborate to execute a customized estate plan that is unique to you.
september 18 + 19
october 23 + 24
november 13 +14
EXTENSIBLE GURHAN
december 11 +12
all trunk shows are 10am-5pm for more info visit www.heffern.com/events
Pictured above: Abbraccio ring by Vhernier
PUBLISHER
Craig Kaminer
Craig@slmag.net
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Christy Marshall
EditorSTL@slmag.net
COPY EDITOR
Lou Ann Wilcox
DIGITAL CONTENT EDITOR
Grayling Holmes digitalSTL@slmag.net
ADVERTISING
Cortney Vaughn Cortney@slmag.net
Rachel Sokolich
Rachel@slmag.net
CONTRIBUTORS
Writers Alexa Beattie
Craig Kaminer
Christy Marshall
Design
Jon Feagain
Photography Alise O’Brien
John Lorre
Kate Munsch
Carmen Troesser
SOPHISTICATED
Eric Williams
Bridget Cottrell
Greg Butrum
Jason Yann
If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the last two decades of publishing Sophisticated Living St. Louis, it’s this: creativity in St. Louis never sits still. It doesn’t wait for permission. It doesn’t follow trends — it sets them. From hidden studios in Fox Park to buzzing collaborative spaces in Midtown, our creative community continues to reimagine what’s possible — not only in the arts, but in architecture, design, fashion, food, media and beyond.
St. Louis has always been a city of inventors, thinkers and doers. But what we’re witnessing now is something special: a surge of creative energy fueled by collaboration, diversity and a new generation of visionaries who are deeply invested in both aesthetic excellence and social impact. This isn’t just about creating beautiful things; it’s about creating a more thoughtful, inclusive and expressive city.
At Sophisticated Living , we’re committed to documenting and celebrating the people and ideas driving this creative momentum. In this issue, you’ll meet tastemakers and trailblazers shaping everything from digital art to sustainable design. You’ll see how legacy institutions are being reimagined by bold new leadership, and how emerging voices are finding platforms to share their stories with the world.
We’re thrilled to bring you the story of Ted Kornblum and his revival of Magnatone, the legendary amplifier brand that’s once again making waves from right here in St. Louis. Coming soon, you’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at Gateway Studios & Production Services, a $200 million creative complex in Chesterfield that could turn our city into the next epicenter of live event production.
And while we’re always looking forward, we’re equally invested in honoring the treasures that make this city what it is. The restoration of Powell Symphony Hall, home to the world-renowned St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, stands as a shining example of how preservation and progress can coexist — elevating not only the arts, but the civic pride that surrounds them. Just as heartfelt is our feature on Crown Candy Kitchen, one of St. Louis’ most beloved and enduring institutions, where tradition is served daily in every bite of a BLT or sip of a malted milkshake.
We also shine a light on organizations like Beyond Housing, whose visionary approach to community development proves that design and creativity can — and should — serve a higher purpose.
As someone who has spent much of his life immersed in visual culture — photography, architecture, style — I’ve never felt more inspired by the creative talent around us. It’s not just happening in galleries or theaters, but in the way people build businesses, throw dinner parties and design spaces that reflect their values and vision.
Let this issue serve as both a snapshot and a spark. A reminder that St. Louis is not only part of the creative conversation — it’s helping lead it.
See you out there.
Craig M. Kaminer, Publisher craig@slmag.net
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With the goal of making the concert hall among the world’s finest, the new Jack C. Taylor Music Center combines the beauty of century-old Powell Hall with a soaring, stunning new addition.
By Christy Marshall / Portrait by John Lore / Photography by Alise O’Brien / Additional
When the St. Louis Theatre first flung open its doors in 1925, no one had any notion that someday it would be reincarnated as Powell Hall, home to the renowned St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, the second-oldest symphony in the U.S. The building on Grand Avenue was built for vaudeville shows and a few years later, the new-fangled talkies.
Then in 1966, the theatre was bought by the St. Louis Symphony Society and after a two-year $2 million renovation, debuted on January 24, 1968, as Powell Hall, named after Walter S. Powell, an executive at Brown Shoe Co.
While a vast improvement on the original, it still had shortcomings. No practice rooms. No space to store valuable instruments. No loading dock. Few restrooms. No women’s dressing room.
When Marie-Hélène Bernard, then executive director and CEO of the Handel and Haydn Society in Boston, came to interview for the job as chief executive of the St. Louis Symphony, she immediately noticed a problem — not with the symphony but with its residence.
“When I took this job, I had it in the back of my mind that we had to adjust and improve Powell Hall to meet the needs of current and future audiences,” Bernard said. She landed the job in February 2015 and she moved here four months later. From the moment she got the position, she started working on a strategic plan to renovate and expand the existing concert hall. The Powell Hall Task Force was created, experts were consulted and studies were commissioned. Ultimately, the Symphony board was convinced and in 2018, Bernard got the green light to go ahead.
Now, 100 years after first opening its doors, the building has a new $140 million, 64,000 square foot complex and it has a new
photos courtesy of the St. Louis
name, the Jack C. Taylor Music Center, named after the late founder of Enterprise Holdings.
After a series of proposals and interviews, what Bernard calls “the dream team” was created: Snøhetta, based in Oslo, Norway, and New York City, was named lead architect; Christner Architects as the local architect of record and BSI Constructors as the builder.
“From the get-go, the architects were really clear that they were adding an expansion that would look very different so there was never any kind of confusion between the existing building and the addition,” Bernard said. “Obviously, by choosing Snøhetta, we were not choosing an architect that was going to build another Powell Hall attached to Powell Hall. We needed to aim for inclusiveness, accessibility and practicality…
“We selected a team that totally gets our spirit,” Bernard said. Anna Leavey, the project manager, “has been spectacular in her ability to manage the teams with poise and purpose. Of course, things happen in projects but I don’t remember a time when I felt lost…
“For all the firms that came to help us from the security consultants, disability consultants, architects, builders, masons, engineers, electricians, it’s unbelievable how many people working on the project had the same common goal to reach excellence and to give St. Louis the absolutely best music center in the world. I’m very proud of that because I have felt from the beginning that I was extremely well-guided…
“I can tell this community that the money has been well spent. The building received the best, the most caring attention.”
The result is simply spectacular and it consists of two very distinct parts: Powell Hall and the new Snøhetta-designed addition. Combined you have the Jack C. Taylor Music Center.
Before the renovation, you entered Powell Hall from Grand Avenue into a vestibule with the ticket office. Now there are entries on three sides of the building. The old entry is now a bistro with high and low tables, a place to have a drink and schmooze. In the lobby, the bars that were there aren’t anymore. “We took them away because they were not original to the [1925] building,” Bernard said.
Then head into the actual concert hall. At first glance, you might not realize anything has happened. The walls have been repainted in the same shade; the gold gilt freshened; the lighting fixtures are the same but now include LED lights. The seats are still red but are now in a warmer hue, in a larger size (two inches deeper and wider) and instead of the previous 2,683, the total has been shaved down to 2,150. A row of seats from one side of the hall to the other has been removed to make it easier to get around.
The most significant change is the new accessibility. “Powell Hall was not really accessible,” Bernard said. “So, we added 22 ADA accessible seats throughout the hall. If you were coming in a wheelchair in the past, we would park you downstairs. No more. You can go in the front, you can go in the back and we have elevators and ramps to take you there. That’s transformative.”
In the back of the hall is a room for someone in need of being alone. “This is the viewing room,” Leavey said, pointing to a glassenclosed space. “When we were thinking about accessibility, we were thinking about it not just from a mobility standpoint but also for people on the autism spectrum, for someone who needed to step out for a moment for whatever reason.”
In the balcony, the depth of the incline has been subtly changed to make it less steep and to provide more legroom. New railings have also been added throughout the hall.
Wings have been added on the floor in front of the stage, a new floor laid, the acoustics throughout improved (making the sound on the first floor as good as in the balcony).
And, the scarcity of facilities is no longer an issue. The new design added 60 new bathroom stalls and placed them on every floor outside the original Powell. With the addition, there are also bars serving drinks on each floor. “We made sure that every bar is at a level that if you approach in a wheelchair, you can still order,” Bernard said. Inside Powell Hall, you have no idea what awaits outside one of the doors along the walls. Where Powell Hall exudes the opulence of the Gilded Age, the new addition is sleek, serene and very New Age.
When dropping off or entering, you no longer have to negotiate the traffic on Grand Avenue. You can drive directly to the new floorto-ceiling glass-fronted lobby facing the intersection of Grand Avenue and Samuel Shepard Drive. The new floor to ceiling glass fronted lobby has a curved driveway for easy drop-off. Inside is the ticket office. A new loading dock is sited on the east side of the building.
A keynote to Snøhetta’s design is its use of natural elements, specifically, wood. The lobby has many elements clad in wood — from the slats in the ceiling to the walls behind the concession areas. The sweeping staircase is “very Guggenheim-ish,” Bernard said.
“One of the things our architects said was that they took inspiration from the environment, our region and our river,” Leavey said. “So that’s why you’re seeing so many curves. The way you move through the space, it feels almost like a riverbend.”
The original theatre lacked backstage space. The Music Center now has a musicians’ lounge, additional dressing rooms, 11 practice rooms (including one for percussions, one for timpani, one for harp) and lockers for the musicians and their instruments. There is a room for the music library, housing thousands of scores, a donor’s lounge and the executive offices.
There is a large multi-purpose room that will work as the education center. It will host after-concert discussions, lunch-
and-learn programs, galas, composer workshops and will be used as warming-up space for the SLSO’s two choruses and youth orchestra.
In the Music Center and “directly behind the stage is an entire suite of rooms that are dedicated for technology, media, video and audio capture,” Eric Dundon, the public relations director, explained. “These are things that position us for looking forward to the future.” The symphony has a partnership with St. Louis Public Radio and Classic 107.3.
A 27-foot tapestry commissioned from the renowned fiber artist Sheila Hicks and incorporating fabric from a previous set of Powell Hall curtains hangs in the corner. A champagne bar stands nearby.
All told, the old and the new combine into one stunning whole. The result is key to Marie-Hélène Bernard’s goal to make the Jack C. Taylor a global destination.
“When you say St. Louis around the world, people say, ‘Ah, they have a great baseball team, they have a great hockey team, they have a great zoo, great museums, great culture, the food is amazing and the orchestra is one of the best in the world,’” Bernard said. “‘And Powell Hall is one of the finest concert halls in the country.’ That’s what we aspire to. I think we will get there and truly become an attraction so that people see St. Louis differently.” sl
JOIN US FOR A SPECIAL HOLIDAY EVENT WITH CORINA MADILIAN DESIGNER & FOUNDER OF SINGLE STONE DECEMBER 19 & 20TH
For years, this homeowner waited impatiently to move into the house of her dreams.
By Christy Marshall / Photography by Alise O’Brien
Love at first sight might happen to a stranger across a crowded room. But then again, a person can be totally gobsmacked by the sight of the perfect house.
In 2010, fresh out of her husband’s medical residency, the current owner and her husband started looking for their “forever home.” Then she found a Ladue house languishing on the market that she knew instantly had to be hers.
The house was built in the 60s for Edith (known as “Edie”) Spink, an attorney and the first female (and longest-serving) mayor of Ladue, and her husband C. C. Johnson Spink, publisher and great nephew of Alfred Spink, founder of St. Louis-based The Sporting News in 1886. (Johnson Spink, who had no heirs, sold “The Bible of Baseball” to Times Mirror in 1977). The house was designed for entertaining and housing their vast collection of Chinese antiquities.
“I would drive by over and over again, thinking, ‘This is the house I want to buy,’” she admits with a laugh. “On occasion, I would drive by the house very slowly, longingly looking at the house. I was literally stalking the house.”
When the house was suddenly pulled off the market and sold privately, the homeowner says she “collapsed, sobbing like something traumatic had happened. I had pegged the rest of my life on this house. I saw weddings at this house.”
Four years later, she learned the new owners had fallen on hard times. Without even seeing the interior again, their real estate agent sent an offer letter in August. By December 17, 2014, she moved into her dream home.
When she first walked through the doors, she saw beyond the dated interior to something magnificent.
The
“When I walked through, I immediately envisioned exactly what now is this house,” she recalls, settling into the jewel-toned embrace of what she calls her “glow-from-within green” room, a space that captures her aesthetic philosophy: traditional bones brought brilliantly back to life with contemporary confidence.
Living in the house for five years before renovating gave her plenty of time to refine her vision. COVID became the perfect storm for a major renovation — virtual schooling meant the family could relocate to their lake house while the gut transformation took place.
“We were told over and over again that we should have just torn the house down because it would have been quicker and more cost efficient,” she says. “But I was trying to honor Edie. We preserved what I think she would have appreciated.”
Enter architect Paul Fendler, contractor Brad Schneider and the design duo from C+M Interiors — Channing Krichevsky and Maria Hogrefe. Together, they would spend the next four years bringing her dream home to life. Some room openings were enlarged. Architectural details were restored. White carpeting was replaced with wood floors. People in the community sent the homeowner Christmas cards the Spinks had sent, photographed with their dogs in the house. “We kept it pretty true to what Edie had,” the homeowner says. A number of built-ins were removed. The flow of the layout was improved.
“[The homeowner] had a very clear, distinct vision of what she wanted it to feel like,” recalls Channing. “She wanted it to be formal
and fancy, with tons of moldings, but also modern in a way. She really likes modern art and furnishings.”
And marble. Lots and lots of marble.
“I just love marble,” she confesses. “I’m obsessed with marble. I think I would have made everything out of marble.”
The kitchen features Arabescato Portia marble on the 16-foot island with a waterfall edge that flows across countertops and climbs walls like natural artwork. The breakfast room continues the theme with slabs that transform walls into sculptural statements. Even the primary bathroom features Scarface marble.
The marble was ordered early in the process due to COVID shipping concerns, and it arrived so quickly that it sat at the fabricator for months. “They had so many people like it that now they carry it,” she says, slightly miffed. “Now everyone can get my marble.”
One of the homeowner’s mandates was the kitchen should not look like a kitchen. “I wanted it to feel as much not like a kitchen as possible.”
Every appliance disappears behind custom cabinetry with no visible hardware — just push-to-touch mechanisms that maintain clean lines. The wall oven hides behind cabinet doors lined with metal for heat protection. The refrigerator vanishes behind matching panels. Even a door leading outside to the grill is stashed behind a cabinet front.
The intent according to the homeowner’s wishes was to create a kitchen that didn’t look like a kitchen. The marble, Arabescato Portia, was imported from Italy. The cabinets are all push latch. The refrigerator and oven are hidden behind doors.
While the
The homeowner knew she wanted the room “a green that glowed from within” and the C+M team executed the furnishings. The built-ins were existing and simply lacquered the custom color.
The homeowner found this
“We went very feminine in here,” Maria Hogrefe says. The walls are a soft mauve; the ceiling is covered in snakeskin wallpaper. The chandeliers were made by Murano and Theiss Plating made the brass rods.
“Literally everything is hidden,” Channing explains. “There are a lot of secret doors everywhere.”
The heart of the home might traditionally be the kitchen, but its soul resides in the green room. The walls and existing built-ins were lacquered in a custom green that seems to emanate light.
“My mom didn’t speak to me for a while,” the homeowner admits about painting over the original wood paneling. “She was massively offended. But I needed a green that glowed from within.”
The room showcases a masterful mix of textures and tones: chairs reupholstered in Schumacher prints, custom-
made pillows from local fabricators and a massive area rug sized specifically for the space. A wet bar is discreetly tucked into one of the built-ins.
While transformation was the goal, preservation was paramount. The Thomas Jefferson floors — first crafted for Monticello and incorporating three different species of wood — were carefully restored and extended.
“When people come in and say, ‘I love your parquet,’ I’m like, ‘I love it too, but you’re wrong,’” the homeowner laughs. The flooring was done by Speigelglass Construction.
Original elements like Edie’s bronze and pewter chandeliers stayed. A vintage towel holder was repurposed by Theiss Plating as a toilet paper holder in a powder room that maintains its original marble sink and fixtures.
The primary bedroom and bath reside on the first floor; upstairs the three children each have a bedroom. The original doors on the first floor were repurposed to use for the upstairs bedrooms. Other modern-day conveniences that would never have occurred to Edie Spink: a laundry room for the kids; a washer/dryer in the primary bathroom, a gorgeous mudroom with individual doored lockers.
When the current owners moved in, the basement was still chock full of the Spinks’ Chinese treasures. “She was huge into art collecting,” the homeowner explains. “She had cases and cases and shelves. The basement was like a Walmart. It had 6,000 square feet
of aisles shelving units that were full of Chinese antiquities. Her collection went to art museums all over the world after she died.”
The house renovation is a testament to what happens when clear vision meets skilled execution.
“This was absolutely a collaboration,” Maria Hogrefe of C+M says. “She had the vision and we helped her execute it.”
The result is a 5,800-square-foot masterpiece that honors its 1960s bones while creating something entirely new. Today, the home serves as both sanctuary and showcase — a place where formal entertaining meets family life, where every room tells a story and where one woman’s unwavering vision created a legacy. And yes, Edie probably would have approved. As the homeowner notes with a smile, “She’s definitely still here. She loved this home.”
Some houses are just meant to be loved — completely, obsessively and with a healthy dose of Italian marble. sl
Avant-garde improvements at Hotel De L'Europe reinforce the inextricable link between the spirit of a Heineken heir and the iconic Amsterdam landmark.
Written by Claire Williams
When Alfred "Freddy" Heineken, the grandfather of Heineken founder Gerard Adriaan Heineken, took a break from modernizing his family's company in the 1950s, he often spent his free time in central Amsterdam, enjoying the grandeur and polished atmosphere of the Hotel de l'Europe.
Married to Lucille Cummins, a native Kentuckian from a family of bourbon whiskey distillers, the two found themselves not only sharing common interests in their line of work but also a shared love of the design and aesthetic of the hotel that they frequented. He eventually bought the hotel (for his wife, apparently), making Hotel De L'Europe the first and only familyowned luxury hotel in Amsterdam.
That same authentic and luxurious hospitality, which made Freddy take out his pocketbook seven decades ago, is the same that has made guests and Amsterdam locals alike keep coming back.
With a history dating back over 600 years, Hotel De L'Europe evokes the prestige of a French palace hotel while striking a balance between its longstanding heritage and its presence in the modern luxury space. The hotel's exterior resembles that of the classic colonial
Dutch architecture most of us are familiar with when we think of the Netherlands, but on an opulent scale.
Whether cruising down the Amstel River or combing the local markets with a stroopwafel in hand, Hotel De L'Europe is not only centrally located, but also Amsterdam's beating heart, with locals even quipping that the city of Amsterdam was built around it.
After undergoing a complete redesign and renovation starting in 2020 and finishing this past February, Hotel De L'Europe's mission wasn't to reinvent the hotel, but rather to emphasize its timeless beauty. Home to 107 rooms, including 55 suites and a fivebedroom penthouse suite, visitors can embark on a gastronomic journey within the hotel's walls.
Two-Michelin-star restaurant Flore focuses on local ingredients and Dutch micro-seasonality. Trattoria Graziella offers guests a taste of la dolce vita, serving authentic Italian cuisine rather than the oftenfound imitations across Europe. Offering a waterfront view, Brasserie Marie's chic atmosphere is a perfect pairing with Steak au Poivre. If the weather's favorable, patrons can moor their boats at the hotel's dock and take out lunch or enjoy a meal on the water.
Following dinner, guests can retreat to the Chapter 1896 speakeasy bar, where mixologists craft libations inspired by the richness of the seven liberal arts. For a more casual drink, patrons of Freddy's bar enjoy revisited cocktails with Heineken while chatting over bitterballen, a classic Dutch snack.
One of the most exciting aspects of Hotel De L'Europe's redesign is its new wing, known as 'T Huys (an old spelling of the Dutch word for "house"). Heineken expressed an interest in developing a myriad of interests, saying, "I've always set out to become homo universalis: a brewer, a composer, an architect, an anthropologist, a photographer," and Hotel De L'Europe takes that same inspiration to act as a "hotel universalis."
During the renovation, overseen by local company 'Nicemakers', a neighboring bank went up for sale, and the hotel's ownership seized the opportunity to expand its footprint. After passing through the lobby of the new wing, guests are welcomed into a grand, modern atrium that departs from the more classic and traditional styles found throughout the rest of the hotel. To the delight of guests, the space acts as a cultural and creative hub for local artists to use.
During the 2020 pandemic, Hotel De L'Europe lent its newly acquired square footage to local artists for studio space as most of them were unable to afford to rent one amidst uncertain times. However, the hotel's owners decided to make these installations more permanent by granting 14 local artists keys to 14 suites and offering
a blank canvas for each to personalize. The resulting handiwork comprises the ‘t HUYS suites, allowing guests to be fully immersed in an artist's world. For instance, in jewelry designer Bibi van der Velden's suite, there is a blend of eclectic design and vintage pieces, (a personal favorite is her giant shell necklace on the living room wall) that stands in stark contrast to the Amsterdam Fashion Week's suite, which mixes textures and fabrics in an almost pop/punk/rock fashion (see the patchwork screen-printed Princess Diana kimono). Other notable contributors to the ‘t Huys suites are the Van Gogh Museum and Harper's Bazaar.
Descending to the ground floor, you're immediately drawn into the flora and fauna of the Wunderkammer atelier. In this botanical hideaway, floral artists and co-founders Florian Seyd and Ueli Signer share their story through carefully curated floral arrangements and unique pieces, further transporting guests into this artistic space. The atelier is designed for guests to explore and enjoy, as well as for intimate events like wine tastings. ‘t HUYS also features a concept store, IN-HUYS, highlighting unique pieces from local artists that will make your souvenir shopping that much easier.
Hotel De L'Europe is a celebration of Amsterdam, from its inception to the modern era. In a similar vein as Freddy Heineken's quote, "I don't sell beer, I sell warmth", De L'Europe is more than a hotel: it's a cultural hub, meeting space, and an enduring emblem of Amsterdam. sl
Porsche is expanding the 911 model range with three all-wheel drive models for the 2026 model year.
Edited by Matthew Cottrell / Images courtesy of Porsche
All-wheel drive variants are popular among customers buying a 911 “S” variant. In fact, within that specific subset, almost half in the U.S. choose a model powering all four wheels. For the 2026 model year, Porsche is introducing three new all-wheel-drive models to the 911 range: the 911 Carrera 4S Coupe, the 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet, and the 911 Targa 4S. The latter will celebrate the 60th anniversary of its launch in September 1965 at the IAA in Frankfurt. These new models will fill the gap between the rear-wheel drive Carrera S and the more powerful GTS models.
The new all-wheel drive variants of the 911 adopt the upgraded engine of the Carrera S—a 3.0-liter twin-turbo six-cylinder boxer engine producing 473 hp and 390 lb.-ft. of torque—30 hp more than the predecessor. Optimized intercooling, a design feature inspired by the 911 Turbo, is credited with aiding the performance boost. An eight-speed Porsche dual-clutch transmission (PDK) transmits power to all four wheels. The 911 Carrera 4S coupe accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds using Launch Control with the optional Sport Chrono Package. It is capable of a top track speed of 191mph.
Porsche has significantly enhanced the standard equipment for the Carrera 4S and Targa 4S models. From a performance perspective, the improvements include a Sport Exhaust with silver tailpipes, as well as brakes taken from the previous generation 911 Carrera GTS models, measuring 408 mm on the front axle
and 380 mm on the rear axle. Uprated dampers with optimized hydraulics are more responsive and enhance ride quality compared to the preceding model.
Performance-focused standard features of the prior model remain, including Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV+) and staggered 20/21-inch Carrera S wheels. Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) are available as an option, as is PASM Sport Suspension, which lowers the ride height by 10 mm. Rear axle steering is available as an option on the Carrera 4S and Carrera 4S Cabriolet. The system offers increased agility at low speeds and greater stability at high speeds. If equipped, this system also includes a quicker steering ratio and revised front axle kinematics. The 911 Targa 4S comes standard with rear-axle steering.
Like all current 911 Carrera Coupe models, the Carrera 4S is available as a two-seater, with the option to add rear seats for no additional cost. In contrast, the Cabriolet and Targa are equipped with rear seats as standard.
The new models feature an upgraded interior with extended leather upholstery as standard, including the seats, headrests, upper dashboard, upper door panels, and, if equipped, the rear seats. Additionally, Matrix Design LED headlights and wireless smartphone charging are standard features. sl
Written by Claire Williams / Photos courtesy Cape Sounio, Cali Mykonos and Andronis
In Homer's The Odyssey , Odysseus' arduous journey spans a decade. Fortunately, for contemporary adventurers, an extensive ferry network makes traversing the Greek islands a far easier and enjoyable proposition. Starting in Athens, contributing editor Claire Williams spent nine days visiting Mykonos, Paros, and Santorini, where luxury hotels add to the intrigue of the diverse and dramatic landscapes, ranging from rugged mountains and volcanic terrain to fertile plains and stunning coastlines.
Cape Sounio, Athens (grecotel.com/capesounio)
Walking up to our villa at Cape Sounio, a Grecotel Resort, and gazing out over the Aegean Sea with the Temple of Poseidon towering in the distance, it was easy to surmise why the ancient Greeks believed this divine landscape was the realm of the gods.
Less than ten miles from downtown Athens, the Athens Riviera stretches the western coastline of the Greek mainland. At the southernmost tip of the Attica peninsula, you'll find the town of Sounion, where thousands of years ago the mountainous terrain was home to Greek miners who were captivated by the area's richness of crystals and minerals, which, when coupled with the magic of the bordering sea, translated into an abundance of natural and magnetic energy.
Sounion's existence dates to The Odyssey, when King Menelaus docked his ship in the coastal town while on his voyage to Sparta. While King Menelaus's wife might've had the face that launched a thousand ships, Sounion's natural beauty rivals that of Helen's. Millennia later, that same ocean view, natural beauty, and cultural richness continue to captivate travelers from around the world.
Nestled up to the coast, Cape Sounio is dramatically situated right across the bay from the Temple of Poseidon. Part of the Grecotel group since 2004, Cape Sounio is one of the most unique hotels in the brand's 40-property catalogue and a jewel in the crown of the Athens Riviera. In the same way that the Temple of Poseidon was a beacon for sailors in Ancient Greece, Cape Sounio serves as a guiding light for guests eager to take a break from their everyday hustle and bustle.
The immense property is home to 139 bungalows, suites, and private villas that have been built over the mountainous landscape and in harmony with the area's flora. There are 23 different room configurations, offering views that range from land to sea. Inspired by the landscape, carefully curated interiors boast immersive indoor and outdoor living spaces. The breadth of the property allows the hotel to operate at full capacity while enabling guests to feel as though they're the only ones in this sacred landscape.
Walking up the main building of the complex, not only is the temple-like design an intentional, stunning, and sleek focal point, but it also serves as a reminder that here, ancient history melds seamlessly with modern accoutrements. Small stones scattered in the lawn abutting a lighted pathway around the building are remnants of Greek miners' homes that date from 200-300BC.
If you'd like a break from your villa's private plunge pool, the Grand Pool, just steps away from the main building, is available. Nearby the Temple of Poseidon is the backdrop for Cape Sounio's private beach, offering both active and passive pursuits.
Perched atop the campus is Cape Sounio’s spa and wellness center. Whether your idea of a wellness journey is sweating it out on the tennis court or at an outdoor gym or indulging in Vicky Vlachonis’s newly curated Elevations of Wellness program, which emphasizes holistic wellness, you’ll feel revitalized.
A destination in its own right, Cape Sounio actively encourages guests to create a sojourn that's uniquely their own. If their traditional menu of activities isn't enticing enough, bespoke experiences are available on request, from yoga with an ocean view to laser tag on the lawn or even a bonfire on the beach.
To properly fuel up for the endless array of activities, Cape Sounio offers four dining experiences highlighting Greek
delicacies, with an emphasis on locally sourced produce. While taking a break from your beach day, you can enjoy fresh fish and seafood at the beachfront Yali restaurant or more casual poolside offerings at the Aegean Grill.
In the main building, overlooking the cape, the Cape Sounio Restaurant is a feast for the eyes, offering a vibrant buffet featuring a mix of Greek and international dishes. At The Restaurant, executive chef, Sakis Tzanetos, adopts a minimalist approach, allowing the hyperlocal ingredients to shine.
The Temple of Poseidon is one of the three temples known as the "Sacred Triangle," which also includes the Temple of Aphaia on the island of Aegina and the Temple of Hephaestus atop the Agoraios Kolonos hill at the Agora of Athens. While this supposed triangle is still subject to scholarly debate and there's no written record of it, it's widely believed that the meticulous Greeks who erected these religious sites wouldn't have done so randomly, and were part of a grander plan, one that often indicates sources of natural energy.
At Cape Sounio, nature, gods, and antiquity all converge; the energy is palpable, whether you choose passive recharging or active participation in a plethora of activities.
Cali Mykonos (calimykonos.com)
A short ferry ride from mainland Greece, where Athena and Poseidon rule, you can revel in what would most likely be Dionysus' island of choice: Mykonos. Often simplified as a deity of debauchery, Dionysus' love of wine, music, and dance was a means by which he freed his followers from the stresses of their daily lives. Nestled in the Mykonian hills in the village of Kalafati overlooking the Aegean Sea, those wanting an escape from the everyday can visit Cali Mykonos.
Shielded from the Mykonian winds and the congested city center, Cali Mykonis is a mountainside oasis, privileged to picturesque sunrises due to its eastern coast location. Owner Kyriakos Mourkakos sought to tap into the natural beauty and authentic side of Mykonos, frequently overlooked by its more cosmopolitan counterparts. Naming the hotel after his mother, Calliope, the name meaning "beautiful voice", Mourkakos uses Cali to voice a different story of Mykonos, embellished with wellness and sophistication.
Bringing Mourkakos' vision to life was no small feat, as the land is environmentally protected. Therefore, the suites and villas are strategically and sensitively placed, and all stonework was hand-
and cooling benefits.
Emulating the white-painted stone houses that dot the island, the property resembles a cliffside village from a bird's-eye view. At ground level, the 40 suites and villas (all of which have at least a partial sea view) maintain an intimate atmosphere with ample elbow room. With private plunge pools, the villas in particular lend a feeling of blissful isolation.
There's an aura of quiet luxury, with bathrooms wrapped in marble (four different types of marble are used throughout the hotel). In keeping with Cycladic themes of simplicity, abstraction, and connection to nature, the deep-set windows serve as canvases, framing the picturesque landscape as art. Outside spaces are equally detailed and spacious, featuring terraces with sunbeds, plunge pools, and outdoor showers.
Rivaling the allure of the Aegean and social media gold is the resort's showstopper: the infinity pool. Stretching 420 feet, it's the largest pool on the island. Perched above the cove, the pool creates an unbroken expanse of blue, blending with sea and sky. Steps below the pool is a private oceanfront cove. Adding to the chicness of the pool deck and cove is a new collaboration with
iconic Italian fashion house Missoni, marking the first Missoni Resort Club in Greece. On daybeds, umbrellas, headrests, and poofs, the brand's instantly recognizable patterns are interpreted in a spectrum of blues, echoing the tones of the surrounding Aegean landscape. "This partnership unites two brands that share a commitment to craftsmanship and authentic luxury," says owner Kyriakos Mourkakos.
The view is omnipresent even at mealtime as all of Cali's dining experiences overlook the pool and sea from a glass-enclosed terrace. An à la carte breakfast offers classic dishes with a localized twist (a personal favorite was the Mykonian Koulouri, essentially a Greek bagel), and their fine dining restaurant, Avli, lets local flavors sing.
Cali's primary building serves as a sanctuary of wellness, featuring a spa with treatments inspired by Greek traditions and rituals. At the Terra Athletic Club, guests have access to a fully equipped outdoor gym, as well as classes and private sessions in meditation, yoga, and Pilates.
Moored to Cali's private dock are two Axopar 37 Sun-Top vessels for island hopping in style and comfort. In stark contrast to Mykonos' cosmopolitan and festive reputation, just a 30-minute boat ride away is the island of Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage
site and one of the most important archeological and mythological sites in Greece. Director of Business Development Sophia Zacharatos says the island is a must-visit, and that Mykonos even credits its vibrant and magnetic energy to Delos' vitality.
Throughout the day and into the early hours of the night, guests are privy to regular shuttles that take them to the city center of Mykonos, where they can enjoy the convergence of gastronomy, fashion, and nightlife on the iconic all-white streets. No Photoshop here; the bare stone and white painted buildings of Mykonos and the Instagram-worthy bars and restaurants are far from a catfish.
Whether you like to enjoy your bottle of wine with sparklers or with the sparkle of the sea at Cali's Apollo bar overlooking the Aegean, Cali lets their guests choose their own adventure. On Mykonos, also known as "The Island of the Winds", ironically, the vibe is very much seeing where the wind blows you; a day at the beach club dancing into the night, or a day in Cali's private cove and finishing the night with room service on your private terrace and pool.
The hotel acts as a restful hideaway for an island known for eschewing sleep. Cali keeps their guest list small, but their experiences limitless.
Andronis Luxury Suites, Santorini (andronis.com/hotels/andronis-luxury-suites)
It's hard to imagine that an island created through volcanic eruptions of fire and ash is now a vision in white. Santorini spans only 28 square miles, but this island proves that less is more. Although there's nary a flake in sight, I keep finding myself describing the island as "snow-capped" with white-painted stone buildings blanketing its highest peaks. On these steep slopes, where real estate is hard to come by, you have to be creative.
In the city of Oia, instantly recognizable blue domes crown homes at the heart of the island's action. A central pathway guides visitors through Santorini's fashion, gastronomy, local artisan shops, and Andronis Luxury Suites.
Fully renovated in 2025, Andronis Luxury Suites has successfully created a mosaic of amenities befitting a luxury boutique hotel. Starting down at the sea, guests can reserve the Andronis Ferreti yacht to take a private tour of the island. On the hotel's lower level, guests can relax in the heated pool or lie on the sunbeds with a cocktail in hand. The pool boasts an unobstructed view of the Aegean, yet still feels private, despite being amid a cluster of homes on the Oia cliffside.
Moving up through the hotel, high on the cliff of the caldera, you must duck to enter their cave, which houses the world-class and tranquil Mare Sanus Spa. A succinct treatment menu harnesses the island's zen energy.
Further up the cliff, you'll find one of the most unique features of the hotel: Lycabettus restaurant. Protruding over the precipice, the dining terrace arguably offers the most breathtaking view of the island's entirety (a truly Instagrammable moment). The cuisine rivals the view with an artistic and avant-garde presentation of Mediterranean cuisine.
In June, Andronis Luxury Suites opened Miltos' Greek Table, a traditional Greek taverna offering the same culinary excellence as
while delving further into the Greek and Santorinian culinary scene with seasonal and local ingredients.
Interwoven throughout these cliffside amenities are 39 suites and villas. With 15 different room categories, many featuring infinity pools or outdoor hot tubs, all with breathtaking views of the Aegean, guests are treated to an intimate yet luxurious atmosphere. The suites and villas emulate the whitewashed, curved style of Cycladic architecture, combined with cave-like interiors that feel cozy while also exuding a sense of opulence.
After a day navigating the winding and vibrant streets of Santorini, we looked forward to returning to our grand suite, relishing in taking a dip in our private hot tub at the end of the day and stargazing on our private terrace.
Santorini is said to be the source of the legend of Atlantis; however, the growing Andronis empire is equally impressive. The name Andronis carries weight on the island, supported by the excellence of their three sister properties. Adjacent to Andronis Luxury Suites is Andronis Boutique Hotel andronis.com/hotels/ andronis-boutique-hotel), an intimate and romantic oasis with just 25 newly renovated suites and villas.
On the other side of the island, in the town of Imerovigli, is Andronis Concept (andronis.com/hotels/andronis-concept), a contemporary haven that focuses on wellness and reconnecting with Mother Nature. Andronis Arcadia (andronis.com/hotels/ andronis-arcadia) is a 113-villa and suite complex with a jawdropping, over 10,000-square-foot pool that is the ultimate oasis. Guests staying at any Andronis property are privy to the amenities of the portfolio throughout their stay.
Andronis Luxury Suites serves as the ultimate serene and sophisticated sanctuary for travelers as they navigate this lively island. Even with the draw of black sand beaches, 21 wineries, and charming spots like Ammoudi Bay for dining at the beachfront, it's hard to venture outside the charm and comfort of the boutique hotel.
Andronis Minios, Paros (andronis.com/hotels/andronis-minois)
If you're island hopping around Greece, the first thing you will notice while visiting Paros is the lush greenery compared to its neighboring island counterparts. While other islands might be known for their nightlife or their Instagram hotspots, Paros is known for its beaches. Driving up through the rolling hills, you'll spy postcard-perfect villages like Lefkes and Marpissa, nestled amidst the green hills and pine forests.
Perfectly integrated into this idyllic setting is Adronis Minios, a member of the Small Leading Hotels of the World. The design of the hotel's 44 Suites harnesses the interplay of light and shadows with natural textures, incorporating aspects of Moroccan decor with the ambiance of the Spanish, French, and Italian Rivieras. Guest accommodations are dispersed throughout the tiered landscape, surrounding a central hub that houses the all-day Olvo Restaurant. It's just a four-minute walk to the sandy beach of Parasporos. For ease of exploration, the hotel offers a daily shuttle to the town
of Naoussa, renowned for "Gouna,"
out to
in the sun near the small church in the historic port and then charcoal-grilled and served with olive oil and lemon dressing.
In keeping with the wellness thread weaving through the entirety of the Andronis brand, the subterranean Aura Spa has a special focus on couples' treatments. There's also a well-equipped outdoor gym and yoga classes offered amid the olive trees.
Andronis, as a brand, is deeply rooted in Greek heritage and culture, particularly in the spirit of philoxenia, which embodies the concept of "friend to the stranger," a deep-seated value centered on hospitality. More than just offering a place to stay, it's a cultural practice rooted in ancient beliefs, where showing kindness to visitors is considered a sacred duty and could even be a way to encounter gods in disguise. With its expansion into Paros and continual reinvestment in all properties across its portfolio, the heart of the brand remains just as founder Miltiadis Andronis intended: "a dedication to crafting unforgettable moments." sl
Compiled by Bridget Cottrell
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selections that are worth the hunt.
Written by Vicki Denig
Greetings, Sophisticated Living readers. For those of you who are new to my column, I'm a wine and travel journalist, as well as a Certified Specialist of Wine, based between New York and Paris. When I am not writing in either city, my favorite thing to do is scour the globe in search of the most interesting and delicious bottles I can find. This time around, I am sharing a few bottles inspired by my recent travels. While a few of them may be hard to come by, they are definitely worth the hunt.
Champagne Pierre Deville ‘Copin’ Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru (Champagne, France – SRP: $105)
Although Champagne is frequently associated with celebratory toasts and apéritif sipping, the food-and-wine pairing versatility of the category is seemingly limitless, thanks to the high levels of acidity found in the wine. On a recent trip to New York's famed Korean fried chicken outpost, COQODAQ—which is also known for having the country's largest Champagne list—I popped a bottle of this Blanc de Blancs from Champagne Pierre Deville. I can confirm that bubbly and all things fried most definitely go hand in hand. Made entirely from Chardonnay grown in two Grand Crudesignated parcels (Les Epinettes and Les Alouettes), this textured and tasty Champagne was aged for 36 months on the lees prior to dosage. On the palate, notes of baked apple, lemon, and pastry crust lead to a harmonious, persistent finish. I'm already plotting my next trip back—yes, for the crispy goods and cold perilla seed noodles, but equally for a second dive into the Bible-like wine list.
Thibaud Boudignon Rosé de Loire 2024
(Loire Valley, France – SRP: $25.00)
Few wine categories are subject to as many stereotypes—and misconceptions—as rosé, and for those who tend to steer clear of the category, I can't recommend this bottle enough. Crafted by Bordeaux native Thibaud Boudignon, who settled in the Loire Valley in 2009, this organic/biodynamic bottling is savory, food-friendly, and one of my favorite rosés to drink year-round, particularly during the early months of fall. A blend of 90% Cabernet Franc and 10% Grolleau, the fruit for this wine was direct-pressed and fermented with native yeasts prior to aging in stainless steel. The wine's earthy undertones beautifully complement its core notes of wild strawberry, citrus peel, and white pepper, coming to life when served with seasonal root vegetables and grilled meats alike.
Moraitis Estate Assyrtiko' Sarakiniko' 2021
(Paros, Greece – SRP: $30.00)
This past July, my summer travels took me island hopping through the Cyclades, specifically to Santorini, Paros, and Ios. While Santorini's wine scene has been gaining traction for the better part of the past two decades, the viticultural happenings on Greece's other sun-drenched islands have been a bit slower to catch up, most likely due to their minuscule productions. Although this specific bottle may be hard to find, I'm presenting it here for two purposes: first, to put Assyrtiko on your radar
(or for those already aware, to remind you of its salty, palatecleansing delights), and secondly, to encourage the notion of drinking local whenever possible. Before selecting this bottle, I was just about to reach for a tried-and-true Assyrtiko from Domaine Sigalas in Santorini, but at the last minute, I decided to spring for the unknown. To my delight, the wine was all things salty and refreshing, with notes of freshly squeezed lemon, saline, and crushed stones. I'm not sure if I'll ever see this wine again, but the memory of drinking it against the backdrop of a setting summer sun over the Mediterranean is sure to stick with me for a long while.
Dunites Pinot Noir ‘Cuvée Ella’ San Luis Obispo Coast 2023
(Central Coast, California – SRP: $35.00)
As noted above, many wine drinkers are guilty of clinging to the same regions, producers, and grape varieties more often than they'd like to admit (including me). Pinot Noir has long been a staple variety in my wine fridge, though expressions from France and Oregon tend to dominate its shelves. If you're like me and tend to prefer your Pinots on the more restrained, lifted, and acid-forward side, then I highly recommend this bottle from Dunites. Hailing from the coastal area of San Luis Obispo, this bright and zesty wine was crafted with twenty-five percent whole clusters, which adds a touch of refreshing spiciness to the palate, and aged for eight months in neutral oak barrels before being bottled without fining or filtration. Lively notes of tart raspberry, cranberry, and
rose petals lead to a long, juicy finish. Best of all, the wine seriously overdelivers for the price point and is certain to leave an impression on even the most skeptical Pinot aficionados.
IDDA Etna Rosso 2023 (Sicily, Italy – SRP: $55.00)
Established on the southern slope of Sicily's Mount Etna in 2016, IDDA is the brainchild of Angelo Gaja (of the famed Barbaresco property) and local legend Alberto Graci. Here, vineyards are planted with native varieties of Carricante, Nerello Mascalese, and Nerello Cappuccio at staggering altitudes of up to 2,600 feet above sea level. This Etna Rosso is made with the latter two grapes and aged for 18 months in a combination of oak and concrete. Medium-bodied and spicy, the wine offers flavors of smoky red berries and wild herbs, characterized by silky, well-integrated tannins and bright acidity. I was familiar with the family's Piedmont and Tuscany-based projects, but getting to dive in firsthand with Giovanni, Angelo's son, at the source was a career highlight. After an hours-long hike around the mountain, we settled at a picnic table with some fresh meats and cheeses and popped a chilled bottle of this as our reward (check out the mountain in the background of the picture!). Pair this with all your roasted meats and veggies to usher in fall on a high note. sl
Vicki Denig is a wine / travel journalist based between New York and Paris. Her work regularly appears in various industry publications, including Decanter, Food & Wine, and WineSearcher. In addition to journalism, Vicki also works with a handful of wine-focused clients, including Paris Wine Company, High Road Wine & Spirits, and more. When not writing, she enjoys running, indoor cycling classes, petting dogs, and popping bottles on her rooftop with friends.
Written by Bridget Cottrell
"Honey, close your mouth," remarked my husband as I stood there gobsmacked by the view, which had taken my eyes hostage, leading my gaze across the foyer, through the living room, the terrace, and out to a bird's eye view of the Caribbean Sea and the seemingly infinite horizon.
Snapped back into focus and my mouth no longer agape, I was able to appreciate the more immediate and equally beautiful details of Celestial Villa, a five-bedroom Georgian-style home perched atop Garden Hill in Jamaica's Tryall Club. Of the more than 90 one-to-10-bedroom villas in this 2,200-acre development, approximately 74 are available for rent, offering highly personalized and entirely tailored holidays with exceptional privacy, as the villas are generously spaced apart amid the lush, mountainous terrain.
Partial Miami-style modern? The oceanfront Ocean's 8 is for you. Want more swimming pool square footage than you even thought possible in a private residence? Book the Trinity Villa. Desire a bit of Palm Beach panache with both ocean and expansive jungle views, along with a well-equipped gym located in a lighthouse-like tower? Following Seas is for you. Best of all, each property comes fully staffed, and some teams have been working together at the same property for decades. Renting a villa is like having the run of a posh boutique hotel with staff who
always seem to have a tune on their lips and a contagious sway in their hips and come to feel like family by the time you leave.
I was never able to obtain a definitive answer on the roots of the property's name, the origins of which date back to a 260-acre tract purchased by Henry Fairchild, who operated it as a sugar plantation in the 17th century. Following a history of undulating highs and lows, the property was eventually acquired by a group of Texans in the mid-1950s who transformed it into a private club. After three days of trying it all, from "tipsy" golf, pickleball, yoga, jumping like a fiveyear-old on a water trampoline in the ocean, exploring historic sites, getting pampered at the Livity Spa by Tryall, and relishing in the overrated art of doing absolutely nothing but floating in the pool, the "Tryall" moniker seems apt for the range of available activities.
Our days at Following Seas commenced with breakfast on the poolside covered terrace prepared by uber-talented chef Shameka and served by house manager Desmond, named the Tryall Club's manager of the year in 2024 (he also happens to make a mean scratch margarita). Guests can arrange to have all meals prepared in-villa, submit a grocery list to have the kitchen stocked before arrival, or dine at club facilities, including the contemporary Jamaican restaurant Ooshan, the casual Beach Bar & Grill, or the 1834 Great House, which serves a daily high tea.
One morning, our group arranged to have a yoga instructor lead a morning class on a sprawling deck on the backside of our villa's acreage. Cantilevered over a jungle that calls to mind Skull Island, the infamous lair of King Kong, and built around a majestic mature tree, the Zen setting was certainly apropos for the practice, and a nice foil to testing out the new Social Swing cocktails and golf program scheduled later that afternoon.
The Tryall Club's picturesque 18-hole course offers a challenging and memorable experience for golf enthusiasts of all skill levels. Designed by Texan Ralph Plummer in 1958, the course spans over 6,836 yards of undulating terrain with strategically placed bunkers, rolling fairways, and demanding greens. The five closing holes, all par-4s, are said to be deceptively difficult, with elevation changes and swirling winds contributing to the challenge. Ewan Peebles, director of golf, is an affable and patient pro, providing easy and immediate fixes for the newbies and lessexperienced golfers in our group (me included).
Full-time Environment and Conservation Manager Karen Sharpe-Williams is available to lead hiking, history, bird watching, and forest bathing excursions. "Tryall has a rich history that beautifully blends with the present and future," she remarked during a history tour that prompted me to wish that trees could talk. Resembling bony fingers clawing at the earth, the elevated, weather-beaten roots of a three-hundred-year-old silk cotton tree that shades part of the golf course's 12th hole could rival the most prolific orator.
In the eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, it's said that the approximately 226 slaves bound to the sugar plantation used the roots as church pews for Sunday services during which plans were laid for the "Christmas Rebellion" of 1831, led by preacher Samuel Sharpe. Both the tree and a nearby waterwheel erected in the 17th century to process sugarcane have been designated as National Heritage sites on a property originally inhabited by the Taino, Jamaica's indigenous people. Both are carefully preserved
and thoughtfully integrated into the visitor experience, enabling them to connect meaningfully with history.
Tennis has been part of the Tryall Club since 1959, with Agile Turf and Nova Cushion hard courts providing pro-grade surfaces. Players on one of the four Pickleball courts are also required to adhere to the predominantly white dress code, a global tradition that harkens back to Victorian-era decorum.
One of the newest and most indulgent amenities is the Livity Spa. Spa director Leesa Jones is the wife of Managing Director Kenton Jones. The Brits met in 2003 while working at Necker Island, where she was tasked with setting up its first spa, and Kenton was the director of watersports, teaching owner Richard Branson to kitesurf (the couple's daughter is now an accomplished kite surfer herself). The couple have been islandhopping ever since, often working as co-general managers. Leesa returned to the spa space after Hurricane Irma in 2017, while living in the British Virgin Islands.
The Livity Spa, situated in a former villa surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, offers a comprehensive menu of holistic skin and body treatments, complemented by locally sourced Jacana Jamaica products, as well as a yoga & Sound Meditation space. Leesa said that she plans to add bespoke spa packages and wellness retreats to the offerings. Post-treatment, guests often choose to linger by the pool or in the shade of the covered veranda spanning the length of the villa.
"Nature's volume is on full blast," remarked a fellow guest on our final night as we admired the star-filled skies from the dock adjacent to Ooshan Bar & Restaurant. In this stunning setting, the ocean breezes whisper "slow down," the curl of the whitecaps beckons you to put down your phone and pay them their due, and tradewinds morph wispy clouds into Rorschach shapes with seagulls filling in the shadows. If just for a fleeting moment, you feel that all is right with the world. sl
For more information, visit tryallclub.com. Pro tip: breeze through customs and immigration on the inbound and through security on the outbound at Sangster Airport by enlisting the services of Club Mobay (vipattractions.com/club-mobay/)
Compiled by Bridget Cottrell
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Brad Walls employs a top-down approach for his fine art photography.
Written by Elliott Greene / Images courtesy of Brad Walls
Brad Walls (b. 1992) is a New York-based visual artist originally from Sydney, Australia. He is known for his unique aerial perspective, transforming movement and everyday environments into minimalist works that emphasize symmetry and negative space. His subjects, including synchronized swimmers and ballet dancers, become studies in geometry and rhythm. The final product of his unique perspective is visually arresting, as the image transforms familiar scenes into something unexpected.
Walls gained recognition with his 2022 series, Pools From Above, published as a hardcover book by Smith Street Books and featured in The New York Times, positioning him at the forefront of fine art photography. From the approximately 1,000 pools he photographed around the globe, just 89 made the cut for the book.
“From the moment I started shooting from above, everything just made sense,” says Walls. “That perspective gave me the space to work in a more graphic, minimal way with lots of negative space, clean lines, and structure, which really suits how I like to compose. Beyond that, I’ve always been drawn to doing things differently. I tend to take a contrarian approach, so working from a perspective that’s less common feels natural. It wasn’t just about the visuals, it was about finding a way to express how I see things, which is often from a different angle.”
For his latest series, PASSÉ, Walls collaborated with over 60 ballet dancers from New York City Ballet, American Ballet Theatre,
Ian Schwaner for a single eight-hour session of continuous shooting on a red carpet the size of a football field. Opening in New York City on September 12, Walls' solo exhibition, three years in the making, intends to be an immersive and sensory-rich experience promoting participation and joy, and blurring the lines between photography, performance, and spatial design.
Visitors enter through The Red Room, walking the red carpet used during the shoot. Life-sized photographic prints line the space at eye level, placing viewers face-to-face with the dancers in intimate, arresting detail. Strengthening the visceral connection, all visitors to PASSÉ will receive a postcard with images of the series and a handwritten note from a featured ballerina.
The roots of PASSÉ stretch back to a 2021 shoot with Australian ballerina Montana Rubin, during which five-year-old triplets approached Rubin and were visibly moved. "I took a step back in that moment and realized the profound emotional connection ballet can have on people,” recalled Walls. “That moment sparked a journey for me: to explore and highlight the deep human connection ballet creates. Ever since, I’ve been committed to drawing out that emotional power through my work.” sl
PASSÉ will be on display from September 12 to 14 at 347 Broome Street in New York City. For more information about Walls, visit bradscanvas.com.
“Spine”
“Suns
“The
LXR Hotels & Resorts launches its Pursuit of Adventure program at Ka La'i Waikiki Beach, encouraging guests to fully immerse themselves in the travel experience with on-property experiences and exclusive destination excursions.
Written by Bridget Cottrell
Oahu feels like you need a passport. Between the diverse and dramatic landscape—227 miles of coastline ringing a pair of extinct shield volcanoes, and the Wai'anae and Ko'olau mountain ranges separated by a broad central valley—all primed for exploring, and a tourism infrastructure catering to Japanese travelers, Hawaii's largest international market, there's nothing like it in the continental United States. Such singularity made Waikiki an ideal place for LXR Hotels & Resorts (hilton.com/en/locations/lxr-hotels/) to officially launch its Pursuit of Adventure program, a brand-wide initiative celebrating the timeless quest of personal exploration. Since its launch in 2018, LXR Hotels & Resorts has thoughtfully expanded its global portfolio to 16 distinctive properties, with more in the works.
The kickoff was hosted by LXR's Ka La'i Waikiki Beach property, which boasts the highest-rated staff across the entire family of Hilton brands. Their attention to detail quickly became evident on the way from the airport to the hotel when I casually mentioned an interest in surfing lessons. Before I was even finished
settling into my one-bedroom suite, complete with a fully equipped kitchen with granite countertops and a balcony overlooking the ocean on one side and the verdant cloud-shrouded hills on the other, the concierge texted me two preferred vendors, whose primo reputation was seconded by valet staff who enthusiastically encouraged my personal pursuit of adventure.
Currently, the hotel is undergoing a comprehensive renovation of its 240 rooms, with interior design overseen by Brian O'Sullivan Studio, whose portfolio includes Claridge's in London and numerous high-end residential projects worldwide. We were given a sneak peek at a finished two-bedroom unit, boasting a subtle mid-century vibe chock-full of unique touches, including sculptural upholstered furniture, blonde wood tones, Saniharto case goods, a hand-painted tile backsplash in the kitchen, and basalt tops on the nightstands and television credenza. The improvements, scheduled for completion next summer, will also include Muse Lounge, a new 42-seat bar, and a new restaurant concept, The Kini Room.
After a long travel day, I took advantage of the hotel's location, one block off the beach in the heart of bustling Kalakaua Avenue, which is brimming with high-end shopping, to take a leisurely evening stroll, followed by room service. The poke nachos were a perfect, subtly spicy, carb-laden treat for helping me adjust to the time difference. The next morning's sunrise was a sight to behold from the balcony. I marveled at early bird surfers anxious to catch the first waves before the crowds rolled in as regularly as the tide.
According to Hilton's recent trends report, nearly 70% of global travelers enjoy being active on their trips, and over three-quarters prioritize accommodations offering diverse experiences. LXR took great pains to immerse us in authentic Hawaiian culture by having Kalei 'Uwēko'olani, a native Hawaiian with a fervent appreciation for her heritage, accompany us throughout our adventures. An engaging educator, she commenced each activity with a message of thanks and a blessing for Mother Earth. During a lei-making session at the hotel, we learned that the iconic adornment is always presented as a closed
loop because "aloha," which can mean "love," "hello," and "goodbye," embodies an ongoing interaction between people and the land, never ending. "It represents a shared experience, but your heart has to be open and ready to receive it," explained 'Uwēko'olani.
Our connection to the land continued at a farm-to-table experiential dinner at Mohala Farms, a six-acre organic farm and nonprofit in Waialua on the North Shore, one of the six original districts of ancient Hawaii on the island, known as a moku. With just a few thousand residents, this rural paradise feels worlds away from Oahu's urban center. Modern hippie Mark Yamamoto is the farm's owner who studied theology but chose a different path for his ministry, tending to the land and educating children about the importance of caring for the land that nourishes us.
We followed Mark through the garden, sampling freshly harvested mountain apples, known as 'ōhi'a 'ai, breadfruit, and bananas grown in the iron-rich soil before gathering under a hale, a traditional Hawaiian open-air structure with a thatched
roof to experience the farm's "clean eating" philosophy. "It's a new old thought," explained Mark, who added that the Hawaiian word āina means both "land' and "that which feeds us," emphasizing the interconnectedness between people and the land as a source of sustenance.
A special guest that evening was Andrés A. Ruzo, a geothermal scientist, Amazon conservationist, and National Geographic Explorer, best known for his work at the Boiling River of the Amazon. In 2011, he became the first geoscientist to receive a shamanic blessing, allowing him to study a place that was largely unknown to the outside world at that time. Feisal Jaffer, global head of LXR Hotels & Resorts, explained that Ruzo's involvement in the launch highlights LXR's philanthropic support of the National Geographic Society and its global community of Explorers, "working to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world."
Andrés' seemingly boundless energy was on full display during a group hike to a waterfall a short drive from the hotel. His
ability to sell a subject with the passion of a multi-level-marketing pitchman pulls you in, and, before you know it, you're as excited about rocks as he is, joining him in marveling at the stone floors and grain in the stone top of the bar back at the hotel. "The Earth's beating heart is what keeps us alive," he remarked during the hike as he brought out a box of rock specimens wrapped with the same care given to a piece of rare Tiffany glass. Pointing out the abundance of flora and fauna as we walked, he reminded our group to always take time to stop and smell the roses. "We live in a big, beautiful, interconnected world, and every place has magic to it…you just have to keep your eyes open."
While curiosity may not have turned out well for the proverbial cat, for intrepid travelers, it may hold the key to a truly unique adventure. sl
Editor's Note: Do your heart and heart rate good by heading over to one of the Hawaiian Humane Society's offices on Oahu to participate in their Īlio Explorers program, where, for a donation, you can adopt a shelter dog for a day of exploring. More information can be found at hawaiianhumane.org/ilioexplorers.
For its Fall-Winter 2025 Collection, Brunello Cucinelli employs craftsmanship and tailoring to offer a contemporary perspective on timeless classics.
Edited by Matthew Cottrell / Images courtesy Brunello Cucinelli
Founded in 1978 by Brunello Cucinelli after he dropped out of engineering school, his eponymous brand, which initially flourished due to a magical mélange of hard work and happenstance, is still renowned for its high-quality cashmere garments and a corporate commitment to "humanistic capitalism." The latter has encompassed significant investments in the community of Solomeo, Italy, where the brand is headquartered, including the restoration of historic buildings and the creation of a center for craftsmanship and the arts.
For its Fall-Winter 2025 men's and women's collections, the brand leans heavily on a meticulous blend of distinctive elements. "Instinct & Reason," the name of the women's collection, draws heavily on equestrian themes and British flair, incorporating unexpected details such as shimmering embroidered gems paired
with tweed and tartan, as well as matching sets that emphasize contrasts and vibrancy.
“Anamnesis,” the name of the men's collection, hearkens to ancient Greek philosophy and the recollection and recognition of eternal ideas that lie at the origin of the world's phenomena. Rich colors stand out through carefully curated combinations, and every pairing is refined by subtle details and a light touch. The brand's exquisite tailoring is dichotomized with an informality elevated by artisanal and polished details, such as a refined jacket with denim trousers.
In the quest for cohesion, balance, and harmony, details make all the difference, adding character and defining style across both collections. sl
In 2010, Van Cleef & Arpels unveiled the Pont des Amoureux watch, the first Poetic Complications piece to win a prize at the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève. Ever since, the collection, using the grisaille enamel technique, has told the story of a woman and a man who meet on a bridge in Paris. For 2025, the brand introduced four new watches to the story, revealing the couple in landscape scenes that evoke different moments of the day. At noon and midnight, the couple moves toward each other for a kiss (vancleefarpels.com). Named after the year in which the first TUDOR divers' watch waterproof to 200 meters was introduced, the BLACK BAY 58 18K is a bold version of TUDOR's popular model in 18 ct yellow gold with an open case back, Manufacture Calibre, and a solid gold bracelet, complete with "T-fit" clasp. Available through Richter & Phillips Jewelers in Cincinnati, Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, Schiffman’s Jewelers in Lexington, Davis Jewelers in Louisville, and at tudorwatch.com. The Oyster Perpetual Land-Dweller is a new watch from Rolex characterized by bold aesthetics and cutting-edge technology. Offered in 36 mm and 40 mm sizes, of the 32 patent applications and patents pertaining to the Land-Dweller, 18 are exclusive to this watch, and 16 concern its movement. Available through Richter & Phillips Jewelers in Cincinnati, Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, Schiffman’s Jewelers in Lexington, Davis Jewelers in Louisville, Diamond Cellar in Nashville, and at rolex.com. The entire OMEGA Seamaster Diver 300M collection has recently undergone a comprehensive revamp, featuring new mesh bracelets, domed sapphire crystals, and oxalic anodized aluminum bezels. These latest 42mm models continue that same design theme, while establishing their own identity through a black and orange colourway. Available through Richter & Phillips Jewelers in Cincinnati, Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis, and at omegawatches.com. Gran Seiko’s Spring Drive Caliber 9RB2 holds the new U.F.A. designation, standing for “Ultra Fine Accuracy.” The groundbreaking movement boasts a level of precision defined not by accuracy in seconds per day, week, or month, but by its accuracy over the course of one year. Available through Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis, Davis Jewelers in Louisville, Diamond Cellar in Nashville, Clarkson Jewelers in St. Louis, and at granseiko.com. Bell & Ross has updated its iconic BR-03 watch by introducing a Black Ceramic version that features skeletonisation and transparency. Drawing inspiration from the aviation world, this technical and functional timepiece includes an X-shaped skeleton movement, complemented by a fumé crystal dial and luminous details. You can find it at Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis or on bellross.com.
It’s hard to imagine St. Louis without the beloved Crown
By Alexa Beattie / Photography by Carmen Troesser
Summertime on a Thursday, minutes after opening, there’s a line at the door. Inside, Joe Eisenbraun is putting out chocolate snappers, Zach Thomas is at the soda fountain wafting clouds of cream over a banana split and back in the kitchen another smiling somebody is piling a pound of bacon into a BLT.
This is how it is at Crown Candy Kitchen.
This is how it mostly has always been — ever since 1913 when a man called Harry Karandzieff bought the 1880 building at the corner of St. Louis Avenue and 14th Street in the Old North neighborhood. “Zoned commercial,” but with living quarters upstairs, the building had housed, at different times, a feed store (which served the flourishing neighborhood’s work animals), a shoe store and a tailor. It is where Harry Karandzieff, a young man from Macedonia with a taste for sweetness and grit for hard work, started serving (hand-cranked) chocolate, strawberry and vanilla ice cream for a few cents a cup.
Harry’s grandson Andy Karandzieff (who part-owns the business with his brother and sister-in-law) now runs this St. Louis institution with his wife, Sherri. He has done so for the last 48 years.
The soda fountain is the city’s oldest, and without question the place to come for a malt … and a not-so-humble BLT.
“We fry 300 pounds of bacon a day during the summer months,” Karandzieff says. “Over the course of the year, that amounts to 22 tons [or 44,000 pounds] of bacon.”
He throws out another figure: “Combined, we sell around 30,000 pounds of chocolate a year.”
All the work here is done by hand. “There are no fancy machines.” Indeed, it feels like a cottage industry in back. That’s where it’s beautifully cool and where Maddie Wilson, Karandzieff’s niece, monitors the chocolate vats. The vats are old-school; “temperamental,” Karandzieff says, lifting the lid off a tempering machine from the ’50s. The chocolate gyrates, silent and glistening, while Wilson prepares the molds — little chicks (or giant bunnies) if it happens to be Easter, ghosts for Halloween, Santas for Christmas or Saint Louis Arch Bars which never go out of style. There’s a huge tray of toasted coconut fresh from a Goliath copper kettle on the counter to be “dipped” a little later into clusters.
“This is the factory,” Karandzieff says. “You’re looking at it.”
Twenty-five to 30 people work here year-round, Thomas says, but during high days and holidays, a number of retired policemen from the neighborhood come in to lend and hand and a few of Karandzieff’s best friends step in to help as well.
He says that while so many things have stayed the same here, the clientele has changed over the years. “In the good old days, 80 percent of the lunch business between September and Memorial Day was made up of office and warehouse workers. Now it’s more retired people and people who work four days a week.”
The best time of all for business, he says, is when the Cubs are in town to play their archrivals, the Cardinals. With word of Crown Candy’s seasonal peach malt on everybody’s lips, it is hard to keep anyone away.
But Karandzieff says things may be about to change quite significantly when, likely by year’s end, 3,500 Federal employees will take up shop 10 blocks away at the new National Geospatial Agency facility.
“I don’t know what that means or what those people do, but it will be good for business.”
And no, he doesn’t seem phased. Karandzieff and his wife are used to going with the flow; used to adapting with the times. Ever since COVID when they closed their doors for a while and online ordering exploded, shipping has become a major part of the business. (Just after Thanksgiving during the first real week of the holiday season, Crown Candy can ship out around 1,000 boxes) The tech side of things falls mainly under Sherri’s purview.
“She’s a Jetson, I’m a Flintstone,” Karandzieff says.
The only other time Crown Candy Kitchen was forced to close was after a fire in 1983.
Once in a while, there’s a little electricity in the air; a hush may fall over the old wooden booths. This is because a customer has stepped up to the great malt challenge: Drink five 24-ounce malts in under 30 minutes, the rules say, and receive them all for free (a $45 value).
Karandzieff says only one in 15 people accomplishes this feat which, in 2009, was featured on the Travel Channel’s program, “Man v. Food.”
The record time, according to Karandzieff, is two minutes and 17 seconds.
“It was like Popeye eating spinach.”
Time is actually everywhere in this “room.” It’s in the old ice cream menu board with its custom stained glass, in the two old aquacolored malt machines, and in those old wooden booths (built by Karandzieff’s uncle to replace the metal ones donated as part of a war effort during WWII).
And, with a firm eye on a bright future, time is still ticking. Karandzieff, who is 61 years old, has his sights already set on the heirs to this throne (or crown).
“Maddie is all things around here.” And Zach, 32, and hired from the neighborhood when he was just 15, certainly knows the ropes.
“My brother told him to go get a haircut and come to work. Now we just say ‘Put a hat on.’” In any event — bad hair day or good — Zach Thomas is a “workhorse,” Karandzieff said. “Those two are the future.”
Maddie Wilson, meanwhile, is still in back, lifting lids, setting out molds, breaking into 50-pound cases of Guittard chocolate bars which she will shatter with a hammer. The air is cool, allencompassingly, deliriously sweet. So it’s no surprise to hear that sometimes, Wilson and Karandzieff dream in chocolate. “Particularly at Easter,” Wilson says. “But those are usually anxiety dreams — of having to dip with my left hand.”
Otherwise, regardless of seasonal stresses out back in the “factory,” front of house is the stuff that sweet dreams are made of: marshmallows and malted milk balls, gobstoppers and gummy worms, nonpareils and pecan clusters, banana splits with cherries on top. The list goes on and on.
“We’re not what you would necessarily call ‘bright and shiny,’” Karandzieff said. “But we get the love.” sl
A family legacy and the reinvention of Magnatone
By Craig Kaminer / Photography by John Lore
In a world increasingly driven by digital convenience and mass production, there is something singularly seductive about analog craftsmanship — the imperfect hum of a tube amplifier warming up, the vibrato of a guitar tone swirling through a room, the whisper of legacy stitched into sound. Ted Kornblum, founder of the resurrected Magnatone amplifier company, understands this allure intimately. His is a story not just of entrepreneurial daring but of reverence — for sound, for heritage and for the enduring value of things built to last.
Magnatone may not be a household name today — or yet — but for connoisseurs of rock, blues and vintage tone, the brand is steeped in near-mythical status. First founded in Los Angeles around 1937, Magnatone was once a thriving American manufacturer located across from what is now Los Angeles International Airport with up to 450 employees and multiple facilities. The company became known for its stylish, high-fidelity amps and was the first to develop pitch-shifting vibrato using a non-moving part — a true analog innovation in the 1950s. But like many niche brands of that era, by the late 1960s, Magnatone eventually faded into obscurity.
What drew Kornblum to the defunct brand decades later was not nostalgia alone — it was possibility.
“What intrigued me about Magnatone was that it was a boutique and high-end brand back in the day,” he says. “It had style and fashion through the design of the product and the advertising campaigns. It hadn’t been screwed up. It was truly a 100 percent American-made brand — and it still is, other than a few parts.”
Kornblum’s own lineage reads like a who’s who of American music manufacturing. His grandfather, Bernard Kornblum, founded St. Louis Music Supply in 1922. His father, Gene Kornblum, expanded the company dramatically, bringing brands like Ampeg, Crate Amplifiers and Alvarez Guitars into the global spotlight. Growing up in St. Louis, Ted was immersed in the business from the start — hauling equipment to soundchecks as a teenager, photographing artists and absorbing the rhythms of the industry like a backstage pass to destiny. However, he paid his dues outside the family business before officially joining through working for other guitar companies plus he received his BA and MBA at the University of Denver.
“I was 16 and bringing guitars to concerts at the Arena or Kiel,” he recalls. “I’d take photos of the bands with our gear. I was probably one of the youngest artist relations people ever. It was a crash course in what artists want and how sound really works.”
That combination of hustle and humility would prove invaluable when, years later, he stumbled across the dormant Magnatone brand name and saw an opportunity — not just to bring it back, but to elevate it.
Before anyone knew he owned the trademark, Kornblum quietly built a collection of over 400 vintage Magnatone pieces — vacuum tube amplifiers, record players, solid body electric guitars, lap steels, even coin-operated radios — to better understand the DNA of the brand. “I needed to physically tell myself this was a calculated risk,” he explains. “Seeing the breadth of what they had made gave me a roadmap for the future.”
And, what a future he has charted.
In 2013, Magnatone began building new amplifiers in a dedicated St. Louis facility, hand-wired by a team of passionate technicians — many of them young, many of them drawn to the tactile beauty of analog craftsmanship in an increasingly virtual world.
“It’s amazing how many young people today recognize the value of classic rock, of real tube amp sound,” Kornblum says. “To cut wire with your hands, to solder circuits and then to hear the result at a concert or on TV — that’s deeply satisfying. They know they’re part of something authentic.”
Authenticity, of course, is the currency of today’s luxury market. Just as fashion houses revive heritage logos and
automakers dust off iconic silhouettes, the resurrection of Magnatone taps into a larger cultural moment — a yearning for originality, craftsmanship and story.
Magnatone’s signature sound — that lush, pitch-shifting vibrato — has once again found its place in the hands of legendary artists. Neil Young and Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top were the first two to play through the newly resurrected amps. Each had wildly different visions: Young likes an amp with natural tube power amp distortion and of course Magnatone’s patented stereo vibrato effect intact; Gibbons wanted a gain-heavy amp with modern features like an effects loop and retro-futuristic aesthetics.
“The key to understanding artists,” Kornblum notes, “is through their guitar techs. They’re the ones who know the minutiae. My relationships with Elwood Francis from ZZ Top and Larry Cragg from Neil’s camp made all the difference.”
Since then, Magnatone’s artist roster has quietly expanded to include Slash, Jeff Beck, Brandi Carlile, Jason Isbell, Sturgill Simpson, Richard Fortus and Lukas Nelson. Notably, all of them buy their amps. “We don’t give them away,” Kornblum says. “That’s how I know they really want them.”
The amps themselves are as much works of art as they are tools of the trade — visually distinct, sonically rich and built with an obsessive attention to detail. The company’s “Master Collection”
delivers a robust, gain-driven tone that appeals to rock icons like Gibbons, Slash and the late Jeff Beck, while their Traditional Collection models preserve the purity of dynamic range and touch sensitive responsiveness tube tone.
“We made a deliberate decision to separate clean and distorted sounds and design the amps to reflect that. If you do it right, you can sell two amps to the same customer,” Kornblum adds with a smile.
But for all the talk of vintage fidelity, Magnatone amps are far from a museum pieces. The brand is positioned as a living legacy — one that could expand into hi-fi record players, Bluetooth speakers and sound playback systems, many inspired by the company’s original designs.
“We don’t want to be everything to everybody,” Kornblum says. “But I do want to collaborate with others — designers of complementary brands who are experts in hi-fi or outboard effects pedals. I think that’s the next phase of this story.”
Still, Magnatone’s soul remains resolutely analog. The choice to stick with vacuum tube technology, despite its imperfections, is a deliberate one. “Tubes are warm. They breathe. They’re responsive. That’s why we use them,” he explains. “It’s an extension of the player’s body, like a dance between the guitar and the amp.”
That ethos — warmth, care, personality — extends to every corner of the company. Magnatone is still privately owned, made in
Louis and powered
a
team
engineers like
Khan, Greg Geerling, George McKale, Dan Ryterski and Chris Villani, all of whom came from the St. Louis Music legacy. “It’s kind of like forming a band,” Kornblum says. “Everyone plays a different part and that creates the sound.”
Even Kornblum’s approach to artist relations feels less corporate and more old-school rock ‘n’ roll. “I’ve got a Rolodex — a real one,” he laughs. “I used to go to concerts early in the afternoon, find the guitar techs and see if what I had sparked their interest. The key is being genuine, being trusted. Then your product has to perform.”
As Magnatone approaches its 90th anniversary in 2027 — a milestone Kornblum plans to commemorate with a book and documentary — the company is more relevant than ever. Not because it follows trends, but because it defies them.
“Magnatone is about making things the right way, with integrity,” Kornblum says. “It’s not about being the biggest. It’s about lasting value — heirloom value. I’m humbled by the musicians and consumers who invest in us. They have a lot of choices. So we better make something worthy of that choice.”
In the end, what Kornblum has built is a testament to American ingenuity, musical legacy and the quiet power of passion over profit. Magnatone may have once been forgotten — but under his stewardship, its voice rings louder than ever. sl
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It’s all in St. Louis. No need to shop for plumbing fixtures in Chicago, Los Angeles, or New York.
Walk into and you will be immediately inspired. Our ever-evolving selection of plumbing fixtures & fittings will heighten your senses and spark your creativity. We are St. Louis’ top choice for designers, builders, contractors, and their clients due to our talented showroom staff and best in class service. Visit immerse and allow our selection, environment, and experience to bring your next project to fruition. Immerse yourself in The Best.
St. Louis’ Finest Plumbing Showroom. Family Owned since 1937. Shop Local.
By Christy Marshall / Photography by Kate Munsch / Additional photos courtesy of Beyond Housting
The Garfield Elementary School in Pine Lawn tells a story of transformation that extends far beyond its weathered brick walls. Built in 1937 and designed by architect William Ittner, the building now houses the offices of Beyond Housing, an organization that’s proving comprehensive community development can work — if you’re willing to think big, get creative and take the long view.
When Beyond Housing bought this building along with five other vacant school properties for just under $3 million over a decade ago, they weren’t just acquiring real estate. They were making a declaration about the power of anchor institutions and the importance of preserving community assets, even when — especially when — those communities are struggling.
“We didn’t exactly have a plan about what we were going to do,” admits Chris Krehmeyer, president-CEO of Beyond Housing. “But this one, we said, ‘We’d love to turn this into our office.’”
What Beyond Housing has built since then represents one of the most comprehensive community development efforts in the country — a model that refuses to see housing, education, health, economic development and civic infrastructure as distinct and separate challenges.
Beyond Housing’s name captures their fundamental philosophy. While housing remains central to their work — they now manage 650 homes across the Normandy Schools Collaborative area — the nonprofit recognized that sustainable community change requires addressing the interconnected web of factors that shape where and how people live.
“Everything is interrelated and connected,” Krehmeyer says. “There’s not a housing solution that will fix everything. It’s not a job solution that will fix everything. It’s not a health solution that will fix everything. It’s all the things that make up a healthy community, a healthy space.”
This linked systems approach has guided Beyond Housing’s work across 24 municipalities in what was originally the Normandy Schools Collaborative boundary. Their organization’s full name — 24:1 — reflects this: 24 communities working toward one collective vision.
Beyond Housing’s housing portfolio is representative of their comprehensive approach. They’ve built over 300 single-family homes, rehabilitated several hundred more for rental or homeownership and
upgraded 1,500 owner-occupied homes, primarily for senior citizens living in modest post-World War II bungalows.
The senior home rehabilitation program exemplifies their linked systems thinking. Many elderly residents in these communities raised families in homes they can no longer afford to maintain. Without intervention, those properties deteriorate and are eventually abandoned, contributing to neighborhood blight.
Beyond Housing invests $20,000 to $30,000 per home in new roofs, windows, HVAC systems, electrical and plumbing upgrades. The work accomplishes multiple goals simultaneously: it allows seniors to age in place safely, increases property values throughout the neighborhood, prevents future abandonment and strengthens the tax base that supports schools and public safety.
“When you invest in the production of new housing, build them new or rehab them, guess what it does? It improves the tax base because property values go up,” Krehmeyer explains. “And when you improve the tax base, where does most of that money go? To public education. What’s the second place it goes? Public safety.”
Perhaps Beyond Housing’s most innovative work involves their partnership with McBride Homes and the Community Impact Network to create new homeownership opportunities. The challenge is straightforward: In struggling communities, developers can’t sell homes for what they cost to build, making development financially impossible.
Beyond Housing solved this problem by taking on the frontend costs and complications. They acquire properties, clear titles, handle municipal bureaucracy and prepare lots for construction. Then they give builders the prepared lots, eliminating much of the financial risk that makes development unfeasible. The sale proceeds from the home go back to the builder.
The results are striking. On a block in Pagedale where Beyond Housing’s rental properties were assessed at around $120,000, a McBride-built home sold (in a day) for $250,000. Beyond Housing has 50 more parcels in preparation for similar development.
“We didn’t ask McBride to come here and lose money,” notes Krehmeyer. “We said, ‘Is there a way we can make this work?’”
Beyond Housing’s education work also illustrates their comprehensive approach. With 15 staff members embedded full time in Normandy schools, they provide both direct services and coordination of all wraparound support services.
Their Match Savings program has sent nearly 500 students to college or trade school. Students and families save a dollar; Beyond Housing matches it with three for post-secondary education. The organization boasts 150 college graduates — 15 with master’s degrees, one PhD working on his medical residency and their first law school graduate from Washington University.
But money alone doesn’t ensure success. The BH staff builds long-term relationships with students and families, providing college visits, ACT preparation, Federal Student Aid assistance and ongoing support throughout college. Their 75 percent persistence rate — the percentage of students who complete their programs — far exceeds national averages for similar income groups.
The other 13 Beyond Housing staff members serve as family engagement liaisons, providing crisis intervention and basic needs support. They maintain offices in every school building, offer food for hungry students, provide school uniforms and operate washers and dryers so families can do laundry. According to Krehmeyer, each year they interact with 80 percent of the student body.
Beyond Housing’s Freedom School program, based on curriculum from the Children’s Defense Fund, serves 180 children across three sites during an eight-week summer session. The program traces its roots to the Freedom Summers of the 1960s, emphasizing literacy through authors and stories. College students from the community serve as “Servant Leaders” — role models who receive training at author Alex Haley’s Farm in Tennessee. Former Freedom
School participants have returned years later as entrepreneurs in Beyond Housing’s small business programs, creating full-circle success stories that demonstrate the long-term power of early intervention and community connection.
“There’s no school district that can both do the pedagogy of teaching and learning each and every day and tackle the multitude of issues that kids and families face each and every day,” Krehmeyer says.
Beyond Housing’s economic development work centers on the intersection of Page and Ferguson in Pagedale, where they’ve created a commercial district that serves both practical needs and communitybuilding functions. Basically, they’ve built a small town.
Their grocery store operated successfully for 11 years, reaching nearly $5 million in annual sales before corporate ownership changes forced its closure. Beyond Housing is currently reviewing three potential operators to reopen the store. Around the corner, Beyond Housing has built a comprehensive commercial district, which includes a Midwest Bank Center branch that has become a $75-million operation — far exceeding the bank’s expectations for success in this market.
The 241 Cinema offers first-run movies with $7.50 tickets — intentionally priced so community families can afford entertainment without leaving their neighborhood. The theater employs Normandy High School students enrolled in Beyond Housing’s Match Savings program and serves as a community gathering space for events, parties and celebrations.
Carter Commons, named for longtime Pagedale mayor Mary Carter, houses a food hall with three restaurants and a pub, all operated by local entrepreneurs. The building also includes retail space, a community gym, event facilities and office space for employment services and culinary training programs.
Beyond Housing’s commitment to economic development extends beyond real estate to nurturing local entrepreneurship through their Biz Start Smart program. In their third year, this 12-week small business incubator addresses a crucial gap in the entrepreneurship ecosystem — most business development resources aren’t easily accessible from North St. Louis communities.
The program’s selectivity demonstrates both demand and quality: from 91 applicants in 2025, Beyond Housing chose 10 entrepreneurs for intensive mentoring and coaching. Participants work on business plans, competitive analysis, marketing strategies, and pitch development while receiving practical support that removes barriers to success. Every participant receives $500 upon acceptance and an iPad with Square payment processing, providing both encouragement and essential business tools. The program culminates in a “mini Shark Tank” event where first place wins $4,000, second place $3,000 and third place $2,000.
“The energy and enthusiasm that comes from the entrepreneurs is just off the charts good,” Krehmeyer says.
Perhaps Beyond Housing’s most surprising project involves their partnership with the Metropolitan Golf Foundation to revitalize the
Normandie Golf Course. When the University of Missouri-St. Louis no longer maintained the facility, Beyond Housing helped arrange its lease and renovation financing.
The course is being redesigned by the legendary Jack Nicklaus, who’s donating his design fee. When it reopens next year, the course will serve as a community asset that builds pride while maintaining affordable access for residents. The Western Golf Association, through its Evans Scholars program, will train and fund caddie positions at Normandie. Through this program, caddies will have potential opportunities for University of Missouri scholarships, along with various other programs that use golf as a vehicle for youth development and mentorship.
“It’s not that this golf course or any golf course is going to magically make everything better,” Krehmeyer says. “But it’s an asset, it’s pride in community.”
In a world where St. Louis is separate and apart from St. Louis County, Beyond Housing has facilitated regional collaboration. Seventeen of the area’s 24 municipalities recently created a transportation development district to collaboratively address infrastructure needs — streets, sidewalks, curbs and bridges. The organization has also helped facilitate the only two municipal mergers in St. Louis County history.
“This wringing our hands of ‘Oh my God! These municipalities! It’s such a big problem,’” Krehmeyer says. “Our response is ‘Folks up here are working together.’”
Beyond Housing’s health initiatives extend beyond their health facility partnerships. They employ community health workers focused on asthma and diabetes management, operate walking clubs and work to connect residents with medical homes and preventive care.
Their commercial district includes Affinia Healthcare’s urgent care and primary care facility, serving a population where the majority lack adequate insurance. BJC Behavioral Health provides mental health services for youth dealing with trauma and other challenges. The St. Louis County Children’s Services Fund maintains offices in Beyond Housing’s building, coordinating $40 million annually in mental health services for children throughout the county.
“There are no doctors up here. None. There just aren’t,” Krehmeyer says.
Obtaining financing is a challenge for every nonprofit. Recognizing that stable housing represents the most significant social determinant of health, BJC helped finance the building of 36 new homes.
“They loaned us money at a below market rate,” Krehmeyer says. “But for their dollars, we couldn’t have done this project.” BJC has since made substantial deposits with Midwest Bank Center specifically to support community reinvestment. Beyond Housing has also pioneered the concept of a “nonprofit IPO” — seeking investment capital with returns measured in human lives and community strength rather than financial dividends alone.
Beyond Housing’s comprehensive approach addresses a fundamental failure in American poverty alleviation efforts. Despite billions spent nationally over decades, virtually no indicators of community wellbeing have improved in struggling areas.
“You do the same thing for 50, 60 years and it doesn’t work, but you keep doing the same damn thing,” Krehmeyer says.
Beyond Housing offers a different model: comprehensive community building that addresses multiple challenges simultaneously while building on community assets and resident leadership.
“We’re confident that everything we’re doing here is replicable,” says Krehmeyer. “It’s not rocket science. It’s just really hard.”
The 2025 tornado that devastated parts of North St. Louis largely spared Beyond Housing’s service area, but it reinforced their understanding of community vulnerability and regional inequality.
“What the tornado did, again for the region, is lay bare in front of us, quite frankly, the great disparity between the haves and the have nots,” Krehmeyer says. “The opportunity for us again is to ask as a region, ‘How once and for all are we going to invest in the people and places that have been left behind for so long?’”
Beyond Housing continues expanding their model. They’re working to establish similar homeownership programs in Wellston, seeking additional housing development funding, and exploring how their comprehensive approach can be replicated in other like communities.
In the old Garfield Elementary School, past and future converge around Beyond Housing’s vision of what’s possible when organizations think beyond the box. The terazzo floors remain, as do the original wall tiles depicting such storybook legends as Robin Hood but now that one-time school anchors an effort that requires adequate resources, patient capital, genuine community partnership, imagination and sustained commitment.
As Krehmeyer says, “It’s the power of what’s possible.” sl
Wednesday,
November 5th
at the fabulous 21c Museum Hotel St. Louis
Internationally acclaimed interior designer and author of the best-selling book The Art of Elegance: Classic Interiors and his new book Defining Elegance, Marshall Watson brings timeless sophistication and star power to the stage.
His work has graced the homes of the Rockefellers and Whitneys and the covers of Architectural Digest and countless design magazines.
One of the country’s most celebrated architectural photographers, Alise’s iconic imagery has defined the visual identity of leading firms and hospitality brands for over three decades. Her lens captures the soul of great design—and this year, she takes center stage.
TICKETS: $200 | SPONSORSHIPS
www.thesophiawards.com Reserve your spot before it sells out (again!)
To learn more or secure a sponsorship: Craig Kaminer | 314-363-3333 | craig@slmag.net
with generous support from:
Elevated menus. Impeccable service. Holidays that feel effortless.
Out of a time of nothing but heartache, Theresa Carrington took her blessings and created a business with women in Africa
By Alexa Beattie / Portrait by John Lore
Theresa Carrington knows a thing or two about love: She knows what it is and she knows what it isn’t. More specifically, a bunch of Valentine roses given in the morning by a husband who — by afternoon — had packed his bags and left was definitely not love. But a message on her answering machine a few weeks later certainly felt like it was. “You don’t know me,” the voice said. “But my name is Ruth and I have been instructed to pay your power bill.”
“My life was crumbling.” Carrington said. “I had two young children and suddenly half the income.”
It turned out that Ruth was a member of Carrington’s church. And Ruth was just the beginning. That call was the first in a very long line of kindnesses: Groceries turned up on her step
overnight; her lawn was mowed while she was at work. A $100 dollar bill arrived in an envelope with a card that simply said, “For the kids.” The notes and letters came so thick and fast, they “decorated” her living room, then quickly overspilled the little wicker “blessing basket” which had contained them. Carrington read and reread those letters. “People must never underestimate the power they have to touch other people’s lives,” she said. “If we don’t have each other we have nothing.”
Now, two decades later, Carrington not only has touched the lives of countless people in seven countries around the world, but her nonprofit Ten by Three — formerly (and self-explanatorily) called The Blessing Basket Project — has altered those lives dramatically.
“I had no idea how paying it forward would look, but I knew I wanted to try,” she said.
For obvious reasons Carrington had the concept of “basket” in mind, and because of her own lean beginnings in Kansas (as a foster child and then an adoptee), she was also thinking about poverty and ways to alleviate it. It made sense, she thought, to go where poverty in the U.S. was greatest and got in touch with a man named Alton C. Byers — a mountaineering expert with deep knowledge of the Appalachians. She proposed her idea: to employ indigenous people to weave baskets. But Byers shot it down. “The people of Appalachia don’t weave,” he said. “Go to Africa.”
It was still the early days of the internet, but not too early for a global chat room called The Mountain Forum, which Byers had established with participants in all seven of the world’s continents. Carrington’s message said, “If you have need and know how to weave, please contact me.” She had offered to pay $5 per basket — 25 times the going rate (in 2003) of 20 cents.
Overnight, 12 countries had responded. Over the next two weeks around 80 more inquiries had come in. With the $1,000 she had to her name, Carrington made good on her promise and put in orders for a total of 200 baskets.
“But I hadn’t factored in shipping costs,” she said. Nowadays, she laughs about her credit card bill which mounted quite quickly to $40,000. “Back then, I didn’t know!”
In 2004, as a way to get funding, Carrington entered WashU’s Olin Cup — an annual entrepreneurship competition
held by the Olin Business School. She won. That notoriety led her to philanthropist Bob Skandalaris of Skandalaris Center for Interdisciplinary Innovation and Entrepreneurship at WashU who gifted Carrington $200,000. But it came with a few conditions: consult his CFO to learn how to run a company, make him Blessing Basket’s Founding Sponsor, move out of her basement and hire someone to help. “Make it official.”
The Blessing Basket Project changed its name in 2018. Carrington is pleased with it. Ten by Three, she says, more fittingly speaks to the business model, which stipulates that the nonprofit will buy 10 baskets a month from each artisan, who then must start three small businesses for multiple streams of income. For instance, Sulota Mondol from Bangladesh launched a pigeon enterprise and in doing so, produced four income streams for her family: meat, chicks, eggs and manure. She also has ducks and cows and a sewing machine. The money Ghanaian Adombila Awelgya made from her artistry allowed her to launch five businesses involving crops and four different livestock — cows, chickens, sheep and goats. She soon had money coming in through 43 different channels.
“It’s a formula for creating generational wealth and ending poverty in a sustainable way,” Carrington explained. Having helped almost 40,000 people out of extreme poverty to date, Ten by Three recently achieved Consultative Status with the United Nations. This means the United Nations wants to hear what her nonprofit is doing, what it’s seeing and how its actions relate to the economic and social affairs in the world.
So far this year, Ten by Three has received 55,000 units (baskets) from Ghana; another 16,000 from Uganda, 6,000 from Bangladesh and 2,000 from India. It also works with artists in Togo, Kenya and Madagascar. To date, the nonprofit has sold 44,000 units and expects to double that number. “This year we hope to sell between 85,000 and 95,000 units based on how strong of a Christmas we have.”
On average, Carrington pays $10 per basket which, in those countries, has purchase power that far exceeds the U.S. dollar domestically. “That money is life-altering,” Carrington said.
While most of those countries allowed Ten by Three to import goods with zero tariff fees under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), that has recently changed. Tariffs now range from 10 to 47 percent. “Off the chain,” Carrington said.
A visit to Carrington’s office, on Oakland Avenue by the Saint Louis Science Center, involves a winding walk through canyons of oversized cardboard crates. The air in the warehouse is dry, grassysmelling, a little sweet. And all around, on surfaces and storage shelves, are baskets of all sizes, styles and colors, each one heartstoppingly perfect in its own way. The people of Uganda weave in sisal and banana leaf while the Ghanaians and Togolese employ elephant grass. In Bangladesh, date palm and sea grass are used. Baskets are made
of cane in India, of mahempe in Madagascar. Every one comes with a signed photograph of the artist as well as contact information. If you write them a letter, Carrington said, they will write you back.
The walls of her office, once you reach it, are mosaiced in beautiful, sunshiny photographs of distant places: Carrington with artisans in Ghana, Carrington with artisans in Uganda and Carrington — Dr. Carrington — receiving her Honorary Doctorate of Humanities from WashU in 2019.
“I couldn’t afford to go to college...” she said. “So that was very special. One of the biggest days of my life. I could never have imagined...”
Anyone who’s ever been to Whole Foods — anywhere in the U.S. — will know that Ten by Three baskets are as standard in that grocery store as throw-pillows around a sectional sofa. The baskets can be bought at all 527 stores. It isn’t going to change. Carrington and her team just received an order for spring 2026 — for as many baskets as $500,000 will buy. But the timing is precarious: Ten by Three now has to find a way to fund that order.
“We can’t say, ‘Wait ’til the white lady sells your basket five months from now.’ We have to put the money in [the artisan’s] hand today.” sl
Hate thrives in silence. You have the power to speak up.
Antisemitism isn’t a problem of the past—it’s happening now in slurs and stereotypes, misinformation, conspiracy theories, exclusion, harassment, vandalism, and even violence toward the Jewish community. Here in St. Louis. Across the country. Around the world.
History has shown us the cost of silence.
When antisemitism is ignored, it grows—fueling division, distorting truth, and threatening the safety of entire communities.
Antisemitism has no place in our society.
Jewish Federation of St. Louis is working every day to educate, protect, and inspire action. But we can’t do it alone. When you use the power of your voice to call out hate, you are helping your Jewish friends, neighbors, and colleagues. You are making our community better for everyone.
Each SpiritJets trip begins and ends at our home base - Spirit of St. Louis Airport. This gives our in-house maintenance and detailing teams the unique advantage of seeing and servicing the same aircraft between trips. Our dedicated aviation technicians, averaging over 29 years of experience each, know each aircraft in our fleet inside and out, and perform a comprehensive inspection and maintenance checklist before every departure and after every return. It’s this consistency, familiarity, and attention to detail that sets us apart from larger fleet operators.
We’ve also raised the bar in aircraft appearance and cabin care with the addition of our own SpiritJets Detailing Crew. This specialized team focuses solely on our fleet, meticulously maintaining each aircraft’s interior and exterior to the highest standards.
September
4-7
Stifel Charity Classic, stifelcharityclassic.com
6 The Walk to End Lupus, supportlupus.org
6 The 2025 ZERO Prostate Cancer Run/Walk, zerocancer.org
18 Sababa Jewish Arts & Culture Festival, sababastl.com
19-20
The Great Forest Park Balloon Race and Glow, forestparkforever.org
20-21 Pedal the Cause, pedalthecause.org
22 32nd Annual Scramble for Charity Golf Tournament, Ronald McDonald House, rmhcstl.com
24-27
The National Charity Horse Show to benefit TREE House of Greater St. Louis, stlhorseshow.com
25 St. Jude Walk, fundraising.stjude.org
27 St. Andrew’s Charitable Foundation’s Ageless Remarkable Saint Louisans, standrewscharitablefoundation.org
27 Together We Shine: A Night for Hope & Healing, rankenjordan.org
3-5
Best of Missouri Market, Missouri Botanical Garden, mobot.org
4 WONDER: A Quantum Blast, St. Louis Science Center, slsc.org
6 Saint Louis Chess Club 15th Annual Charity Golf Tournament, saintlouischessclub.org
10 Little Bit Foundation’s Join the Journey Gala, thelittlebitfoundation.org
10 BJC Classic, foundationbarnesjewish.org
11 SSM Health Foundation Bright Night Gala, givetossmhealth.org
12 A Tasteful Affair, Food Outreach, foodoutreach.org
17 Springboard to Learning’s Diamond Anniversary Celebration, springboardstl.org
18 Red Shoe Society Wine Event, Ronald McDonald House, rmhcstl.com
24 Friends of Kids with Cancer Halloween Party, friendsofkids.com
25 Walk to End Alzheimer’s, act.alz.org
Opera Theatre of Saint Louis’ 50th Anniversary Gala honoring founding General Director Richard Gaddes was held in Webster Groves on May 8, 2025. Over 430 guests gathered at the Sally S. Levy Opera Center to support accessible arts experiences for all ages, living wages for artists in our community and awe-inspiring performances that bring acclaim to St. Louis. Mayor Cara Spencer presented a proclamation establishing May 8 as “Richard Gaddes Day” in the City of St. Louis. Tenor Joshua Blue, baritone Justin Austin and soprano Jennifer Johnson Cano performed treasured opera selections. A special encore featured a performance of Leonard Bernstein’s “Make Our Garden Grow” by Joshua Blue, soprano Deanna Breiwick and members of the Gerdine Young Artists Program.
Blending wonder with purpose, the Believe Gala on May 16 transported guests into a world of possibility, featuring a mesmerizing performance by Nevo Abutbul, the world’s youngest mentalist. Nevo’s story aligned perfectly with the mission of Variety’s Believe Gala — proving that when you empower young people, provide them with the right tools and support and believe in their abilities, they can achieve greatness far beyond expectations. Additionally, guests enjoyed an interactive cocktail hour, dinner and opportunities to directly empower Variety Kids. All proceeds raised support Variety’s vital programs, providing children and teens with disabilities essential medical equipment, therapies and inclusive arts and recreation programs.
AVALON PLACE Fantastic business/lifestyle opportunity! Ripe with potential for a new caretaker. The charm and grandeur of this property offer a canvas for conferences, retreats, weddings/receptions or other hospitality events. As you enter the hall through the large custom wood doors and walk thru the main floor, notice the exceptional woodwork and stained glass. The large stone fireplace at one end fills the hall with warmth. A second level mezzanine offers a second bar and additional seating. Six sets of east facing french doors lead to multiple levels of outdoor entertainment spaces overlooking the MS. River Valley. Set on 14+ acres of walking gardens, quaint paths and water features. An outdoor pizza kitchen is in addition the commercial kitchen attached to the hall. In addition to the hall, the property includes a 4 bed house with spectacular views of the valley and an “overlook” With an alter/stage for outdoor weddings or music. The possibilities are endless! Your vision can become reality!
LISTING PRICE $2,100,000
RACKHEATH HOUSE This is Rackheath! This wonderful home sits on the bluffs of the Mississippi River on 4+ acres with incredible views of the river valley. The home was built in 1860 and has been updated and re-sized to accommodate todays lifestyle. The first floor has an amply sized living/dining combination, a green house w/hot tub and kitchen with center island. Additionally the first floor has a bedroom with it’s own full luxury bath and a common sitting area. The second level has 2 more bedrooms each with it’s own bath and a common area/sitting/tv room with incredible views on 3 sides. The large outdoor patio area has views of the grounds and are of an English garden, landscaped and manicured shrubs, pathways and statuary. Can you find the secret garden with the oversized chess set? This is a must-see property!
LISTING PRICE $775,000
CEDAR CREST MANOR The amazing Cedarcrest Manor sits on 2.5 acres on the bluffs of Clarksville and overlooks the Mississippi River. Built in 1842 by Captain Benjamin Clifford, a prominent riverboat captain, Cedarcrest began its life as a plantation home and quickly became the archetype for a number of houses built in the Mississippi River Valley. This is a fantastic opportunity as a family home, corporate retreat location, or just your home away from home. The home is complete with 7 bedrooms, each with it’s own full bath. The home has a commercial kitchen and an owners suite with it’s own kitchen in the lower level. The private grounds feature Victorian gardens, a pool and pool house with changing rooms, a bathroom, and a fireplace. The property has an abundance of entertaining areas including upper and lower level patio areas. The home has most recently been used as a bed and breakfast and is still configured as one or it’s easily used as a residence. This is a must-see property.
LISTING PRICE $1,200,000
The Illumination Gala is The Foundation for Barnes-Jewish Hospital’s premier event, supporting cutting-edge cancer research at the Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center. Held June 14, the unforgettable evening was chaired by Elizabeth Mannen Berges and Jim Berges and featured celebrity guest hosts Andy Cohen and Justin Willman. Held at the RitzCarlton, the event raised more than $4.1 million to fuel innovative and breakthrough cancer research. Since 2007, Illumination has raised over $45 million, funding more than 160 innovative cancer research projects and bringing new hope to patients and families.
ZOOFARI 2025 presented by Wells Fargo, the Saint Louis Zoo’s most important fundraiser and grazing gala, was held on June 20. Guests enjoyed a beautiful summer night at the Zoo with refreshing libations, special activities, main stage music from The Block Party Experience and dinnerby-the-bite samples of signature dishes from over 30 local restaurants and caterers. Special fundraising activities included a wine pull, bubbly wall, bourbon tasting, local restaurant gift card wall, Rawlings Gold Glove photo op, Hearth & Soul pop-up shop and silent auction offering exclusive animal experiences. ZOOFARI proceeds support the Zoo’s conservation efforts here and around the world. This year’s event raised over $887,000 from more than 2,000 community supporters.
Our pets deserve nothing less than the best
By Grayling Holmes / Portrait by John Lore
We love our dogs and cats. We treat them as we would want to be treated.
Jessica Cooke, founder of Yuppy Puppy, knows this very well. Her company is fast becoming the gold standard in pet care.
Yuppy Puppy is an elegant spa and resort for pampered pooches … and fine felines. The upscale pet resort has separate wings for dogs and cats. Every inch of the establishment is designed to envelope one’s precious pet in luxury.
“Twenty-two years ago, I was watching an episode of ‘Will & Grace,’ and Jack had to take his cherished dog to the groomer,” Jessica said. “He took her to Yuppy Puppies and the name stuck with me. I researched it and was delighted to find out that it was a fictitious name, so I trademarked it.” She envisioned a place where pets could go for the ultimate care while their owners were away.
Posh elegance greets you everywhere. Whether sitting in the vestibule with your pooch or puss or browsing the boutique area, you will at once recognize the Yuppy Puppy difference.
“Yuppy Puppy is fully certified by the Pet Care Services Association, which used to be called the American Boarding Kennel Association, ” Jessica said. “That means that in addition to just being expert at boarding, we adhere to a wider range of pet care including dog daycare, training and grooming.”
In the west wing of Yuppy Puppy, cats are boarded in private rooms. Dogs reside in the east wing. Relaxing, tranquil music is played throughout. Some guests come for what Yuppy Puppy calls “playcamp” while the owners are at work. “Whether in one of the three play yards or enjoying a fun time in our doggy dance area, it’s always a doggone good time here,” Jessica said.
“I have built something special here. I have designed a canine paradise that even my five pampered pooches, Tiffany, Blueberry, Cherry, Plum, Maddox, and Banner, love. And so will your precious doggies or kitties.” sl
Yuppy Puppy currently has two locations, one in O’Fallon, Missouri, the newest in Cottleville, Missouri, www.yuppypuppyspa.com.
The high-energy afternoon featured spectacular performances by local drag queens who delivered messages of empowerment, inclusivity and pride — all core values that reflect Rung’s mission to support women on their paths to economic independence. Proceeds from the June 8 event benefit Rung’s new Career Center, a transformative hub set to open in 2026. Plan. Seek. Attain. is the motto for the Career Center which will provide women with the tools, guidance and support they need to land meaningful jobs — a critical step on their journey to long-term success. At Rung for Women, a member’s journey begins with learning new skills, continues with a promotion or new employment and leads to lasting personal and professional growth.
From weekday meal prep to weekend entertaining, experience