Bruce G. Weber by Accent Magazine

FA L L / H O L I D AY S 2 0 1 1 A C C E N T/ T H E M A G A Z I N E O F L I F E â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S C E L E B R AT I O N S

Platinum Pleasures

POWER PIECES MAKE A STATEMENT

PLUS: Gold Makes a Marriage Cruising in Style The Perfect Proposal

WELCOME

ou don’t have to be an expert on fashion or a world traveler to discover the finest jewelry and watch brands. Just visit Bruce G. Weber Precious Jewels. When you come into our store, you are walking into a whole world of jewelry and watches. We have spent years aggregating the very finest brands and you’ll see the latest jewelry designs by artists like David Yurman and Denise Robergé as well as fine Swiss timepieces by manufacturers like Cartier. These companies trust us to represent them and be good stewards of the brands they have spent many years building. It’s a great responsibility and one we don’t take lightly. That’s why our sales associates spend many hours and a lot of energy to learn about each brand we sell. They are the experts who can guide you through this world of fashion. You’ll see a glimpse of what we do in the pages of this magazine. We’ve assembled a fashion section that showcases some fantastic looks for the fall. You’ll see profiles of some of the hottest designers and watch brands, and you’ll get a chance to see a lot of great new jewelry and watch designs throughout the book. We hope you enjoy browsing these pages. Maybe you’ll find some things for your “I need that!” list. If you like what you see here, you owe it to yourself to visit us to see the jewelry in person. Or better yet, try some things on. It’s the only way to truly appreciate the artistry, beauty and feel of the world’s finest jewelry and watches. We look forward to seeing you soon, and we wish you a happy, healthy holiday.

Bruce G. Weber, Founder

Michelle Holdgrafer, Store Director

Contents fall/winter 2011 1700 UTICA SQUARE 918-749-1700 800-749-1771 WWW.BRUCEGWEBER.COM

P U B L I S H E D B Y T H E B J I FA S H I O N G R O U P PUBLISHER STU NIFOUSSI EDITOR-IN-CHIEF KAREN ALBERG GROSSMAN C R E AT I V E D I R E C T O R HANS GSCHLIESSER MANAGING EDITOR JILLIAN SPRAGUE PROJECT MANAGER LISA MONTEMORRA

DESIGNERS CYNTHIA LUCERO JEAN-NICOLE VENDITTI PRODUCTION MANAGER PEG EADIE DIRECTOR OF PREPRESS HUGH K. STANTON PRESIDENT AND CEO

FEATURES 1 Welcome Letter 4 Our People: Sasha May 6 Bruce G. Weber Events 8 Accent Advisor

44 Tulsa Food & Wine: Happy Healthy Holidays 46 Travel: Having it All 48 Perfect Gems

BRITTON JONES CHAIRMAN AND COO MAC BRIGHTON Prices are subject to change without notice and may vary

52 Food: Culinary Class

54 End Page: The Ultimate Gift

Accent® is Published by Business Journals, Inc, P.O. Box 5550,

10 Caring for the Community: The Parent and Child Center of Tulsa

BRIDAL SECTION

12 Interview: Irresistibly Ivanka

38 The Rings: Keeping it Real

14 Bell & Ross: From Cockpit to Wrist

40 The Proposal: Setting Sail

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42 The Jewels: Shine On

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16 Designers: Transformative Power

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18 Fashion: From the Runways

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20 Trends: Power Pieces

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23 Fall’s Effortless Fashions

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2011 JOHN HARDY LIMITED

PALU COLLECTION

OUR PEOPLE

Sasha May

SALES ASSOCIATE AT BRUCE G. WEBER PRECIOUS JEWELS

Where are you from originally? I was born in Tulsa and raised in Locust Grove, a small town about 50 miles away. How long have you been at Bruce G. Weber? I started working here in November 2009. How long have you been in the jewelry business? I began my career in jewelry in November 2000 as a part-time job to get through college. What’s your favorite part of your job and why? My favorite part is getting to help all the couples who are getting engaged. It’s so fun to see their excitement and know I am a part of that chapter of their lives. Is there a particular customer or sale that sticks in your mind as memorable? My first engagement ring sale was so memorable to me because the couple sent me an invitation to their wedding. If you weren’t doing this job, what might you be doing for a living? I would be working in human resource management. What is the greatest personal or professional challenge you have faced? Learning how to balance work and home and be successful at both. Who has been the biggest influence in your life? My mom. She taught me to work hard, dream big, and never give up. What is the best lesson you’ve ever learned? I learned early on in my career that I am responsible for my success and hard work will always pay off in the end. What do you do to unwind? I love to sit outside on the patio with a great book at the end of a long day. What is something you can’t live without? I can’t live without my sweet tea and my flat iron: both are very important to my daily life! Where is your favorite vacation spot? I love Colorado. There is nothing better than the fresh air and beautiful mountains to clear your mind. What’s your favorite type of food? I love all the good home cooking from my childhood, nothing better than fried chicken! What’s your favorite local restaurant? Albert G’s Barbecue because they have the best ribs! Do you have any hobbies? I am having a baby, going back to school, and I work. Who has time for hobbies? But if I had time I would love to take cooking classes!

BRUCE G. WEBER EVENTS

Bruce G. Weber was proud to sponsor “Greg & Chuck’s Dash for the Diamond” contest with Z-104.5 The Edge and the Tulsa Drillers. Lucky couple Rachel and Zack won a Bruce G. Weber engagement ring valued at $3,500, beating out two other couples in a hard-fought three-legged race at the Driller’s game on June 4th at Oneok Field.

ACCENTADVISOR

I HEAR A LOT ABOUT JEWELRY WARDROBING: WHAT ARE THE “MUSTHAVE” ITEMS? While there are no hard and fast rules, a great timepiece is an absolute essential. Since you wear this item often, if not daily, it should be something that embraces your personal style and suits your way of life (i.e. don’t get a leather strap or dainty diamond-encrusted model if you swim or play sports every day). There are many great options in well-priced materials such as ceramic, stainless steel and gold. Select features that meet your needs and reflect your personality. Another key item is a necklace or pendant that has special meaning to you, or showcases your individual style. Keep in mind that since your neck area is one of the first things people notice, a distinctive piece is memorable. Lastly, select great earrings that you don’t have to think about. These could be diamond studs, bold hoops, or something more elaborate, but keep it relevant to your regime, something you can put on and then forget about for the day!

WHAT SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT FALL/WINTER 2011 JEWELRY TRENDS?

I NEED SOME GIFT IDEAS FOR MEN: ANY SUGGESTIONS?

Jewelry is certainly an integral part of a woman’s wardrobe, perfect for jazzing up any outfit. Though we all have those traditional jewelry pieces, wearing them on a daily basis hardly inspires enthusiasm. So mix it up! To ensure that your look doesn’t get pigeonholed, diversify your jewelry collection to include trend pieces that can be paired with classics. According to top designers around the globe, fall/winter 2011 is the season to go bold! Chunky statement jewelry in bright colors is a key fashion trend—choose pieces that stand out from, rather than blend in with, your outfit. Go for extra-large bracelets, shiny danglers for ears, notable necklaces. If you’re a fan of motifs, now’s the time to mix and match various icons (animal, floral, religious) to create a unique look that’s very “you.” Lastly, remember to invest in bangles (or other bold bracelets) this season, a must-have for every fashionista. Those who love chunky rings can brandish huge retro-inspired styles that not only look great but are also easy on the pocketbook.

Whether your guy’s a corporate type or a musician, there’s some great new men’s jewelry in our store. Obviously, a good watch is always the ultimate gift and we have plenty of fabulous options. (Many of today’s best styles are more elegant and classic than in seasons past; rose gold is also trending.) Cuff links are always a great gift, allowing a man to express his personality, even in the boardroom. Choose a motif that relates to his interests or passions (sailing, golf), or match the gemstone or enamel to his favorite color. For the guy who’s cool and contemporary, neck or wrist jewelry that combines high-tech metals with natural and/or precious materials will bring out his inner rockstar. You know it’s in there somewhere! A romantic idea: why not buy each other new gold or platinum bands to celebrate your love and your ever-evolving relationship?

IMAGE COURTESY OF STEPHEN WEBSTER

Choose a notice-me necklace to update your jewelry wardrobe.

Behold,

OUR FIVE-TABLE DIAMOND EARRINGS.

Brilliant from five tables away.

1700 Utica Square, Tulsa, Oklahoma 74114

(918) 749-1700

www.brucegweber.com

CARING FOR THE COMMUNITY

The Parent and Child Center of Tulsa THE PARENT AND CHILD CENTER OF TULSA is on a mission to end child abuse in our community. 9.5 out of every 1,000 children in Oklahoma are abused or neglected. According to the Child Welfare Information Gateway and Child Protective Services, child abuse is most often neglect (64.1%), physical abuse (16.6%) and sexual abuse (8.8%). As a partner agency of the United Way, The Parent and Child Center of Tulsa (PCC) wears many hats, including operating the Great Beginnings program under Oklahoma Department of Health’s Office of Child Abuse Prevention (OCAP). This nonprofit organization has found a system that works: prevention. In fact 90% of children enrolled in OCAP programs never have a confirmed case of child abuse. Who They Serve According to family support specialist Donna Holladay, abuse or neglect is “not because the parents are bad people…they just don’t know any better.” Therefore PPC’s approach of education and support before the abuse occurs has proven successful. All education and prevention programs at PCC are voluntary. Families are referred to PCC by hospital social workers and physicians, human service agencies and even

clients who want to share their positive experiences. PCC helps families with parents who feel alone, angry or at a loss, have a child who has experienced violence outside of the home or behavioral problems or for those who are interested in learning new parenting skills. How They Serve Education. Early intervention programs offer newborn education for parents, neighborhood support, a resource library and elementary school puppet shows that teach children how to ask for help. Intervention. PCC also assists with secondary protection through home visits with at-risk families, pregnancy support, shelter outreach and parent support groups. Treatment. PCC helps families who have experienced abuse by providing therapy for children, adults, individuals and groups, jail outreach, supervised visits and family counseling. They also have a 24-hour crisis line, 918599-7999. The Parent and Child Center of Tulsa helped 25,301 people in 2010 alone. To learn more about their extraordinary work or to find out more about how you can help, visit www.parentchildcenter.org.

How You Can Help: Join the Parent Child Center Youth Council Help this group of high school students create awareness of child abuse and neglect. Attend the Toyland Ball on January 14, 2012 Volunteer From delivering donations to giving educational programs—your time can help stop abuse. Give Just $20 provides families with an hour of in-home visits. For more information, visit www.parentchildcenter.org.

INTERVIEW

Irresistibly Ivanka TALENTED, DRIVEN, AND VERY MUCH HER OWN PERSON, IVANKA TRUMP CONTINUES THE LEGACY. BY KAREN ALBERG GROSSMAN

How and why did you get into the jewelry business? My mother’s Legacy jewelry collection always inspired me, and my love for the classic aesthetic helped propel my vision. I realized the luxury fine jewelry market was missing a fresh, young design approach. That’s where my vision of “Rock Tradition” plays a vital role—it’s a modern twist on jewelry’s most important classic. I’ve always had a passion for jewelry. I wanted to make women of my time feel comfortable buying fine jewelry. Where do you get the ideas and inspiration for your designs? My creative vision is Heirloom Chic, the youthful reinvention of important legacy jewelry. Heirloom Chic puts a modern twist on classic jewelry, capturing a sense of fine workmanship, tradition and offhand elegance. I’m influenced by everything around me, especially my travels. Tell us a little about your fall 2011 collection. My 2011 collection is named Noor, meaning “light” in Arabic. It’s an exquisite new line of Art Deco-style jewels inspired by the sensual transparency of vintage lace, the play of light through its delicate pattern, and the intricate ornamentation of Byzantine architecture with its mosaic and arabesque patterns. I drew inspiration for the Noor collection beginning in 2010 while traveling to Morocco, Turkey and Baku, Azerbaijan. Design elements from these rich cultures were incorporated into the interior of the Trump Soho lobby and spa while some references were transformed into sketches for the new jewelry collection. What is your personal favorite piece from your collection? It has to be the medium signature oval diamond earrings: they really make a statement but are classically understated at the same time. How would you describe your jewelry style at the office? I stick to chic, timeless items like delicate bangles, banded rings and elegant earrings. I have a pair of rose gold rock crystal bangles from my fine jewelry collection that are perfectly understated for the office. I love statement jewelry, but there’s a time and place for it. If you do choose to bring statement jewelry into the office, it‘s important to balance it with a more conservative outfit. What have you learned (about business/life) from your father? I love working with my father! I’ve learned a great deal from him over the years. He taught me that hard work never goes out of style and to always be prepared for interviews, meetings, discussions, everything. Work hard. Create a strong and consistent identity—your name and reputation are your best assets. I couldn’t ask for a better mentor. What advice would you give to a bride-to-be about her wedding? Enjoy every moment—it goes by too quickly! How do you think motherhood will change you? It’s hard to say until I know my daughter’s needs and personality, but I hope to do as much as possible, while trying to be flexible and accommodating.

Getting Personal Describe Self: Driven Favorite Vacation Spot: Trump Waikiki Favorite Restaurant: Quattro at Trump Soho—fantastic light Italian food Favorite Cocktail: Champagne Favorite Movie: Snow Flower & The Secret Fan. It was amazing! Favorite Book: Atlas Shrugged On your iPod: Katy Perry and Kanye West Hero or Mentor: My parents What few people know about you: I am an expert bowler!

Rock Tradition.

Now available exclusively in Tulsa at Bruce G. Weber Precious Jewels

BELL & ROSS

From B Cockpit to Wrist

ell & Ross founders Carlos Rosillo and Bruno Belamich were childhood friends who shared a passion for watches despite their very different temperaments. Bruno’s creativity led him to one of France’s top industrial design schools, while Carlos’ business-minded pragmatism earned him an MBA and a career in finance. While working on a watch line for his thesis, Bruno approached his friend and asked if he would be interested in starting a watch company together using Bruno’s watch designs. Ignoring the skeptics, the two friends founded Bell & Ross in 1994, using truncated versions of their surnames for the brand name. The design of Bell & Ross watches also reflect the collaboration of the founders. Bruno is an avid collector of instrument panel clocks and Carlos has a fondness for vintage watches. As a result, the inspiration for Bell & Ross watches has always been aircraft instrument control panels as well as vintage pilot watches. The brand’s four design principles also reflect the qualities found in every airplane instrument: legibility, functionality, waterresistance and precision. During its early years, Bell & Ross produced watches modeled after pilot watches of the 1940s. In 2005 Bell & Ross introduced its iconic BR01 Instrument watch to great acclaim. The BR 01 was modeled after a cockpit clock, and its square shape and the four screws in each corner of the watch reflect the method of attaching those instruments to an airplane’s instrument panel. Today, Bell & Ross has expanded its collection by merging the original Bell & Ross vintage type watches with its BR01 Instrument line. The BR 01 and BR 03 Heritage watches maintain the square shape, matte black case and simple design of Bell & Ross’ Instrument collection but add a sand colored photoluminescent coating to the numerals, indices and markers that are reminiscent of the patina vintage watches acquire over time. The stamped natural leather straps also give the watches a 1940s quality. The Vintage Heritage line takes this melding of the two collections one step further by using the round shape of a period watch case and combining it with a matte black finish and simple, striking beige colored hands, indices and numerals. Featured with a natural leather strap, this watch is the ultimate link between Bell & Ross’ original pilots’ watches and its iconic BR Instrument collection.

DESIGNERS Describe the exclusive collection you designed for our store. The palette is called Wisteria and is anchored by a gorgeous bronze amethyst gemstone doublet. The multi-stone silhouettes in the collection also have hand-faceted clear quartz and Brazilian amethyst gemstones and a beautiful black shell doublet. I source stones and materials from all over the world, though I actually found the bronze amethyst I used for this collection right here in the U.S. You’ve talked about jewelry as empowering women; explain. For me, jewelry has always had a transformative quality—a great necklace or the perfect stack of bangles can really lift a mood, inspire confidence, make a woman feel more beautiful, more sexy, more herself. When you feel beautiful, you feel confident and that’s empowering. In general, what inspires your designs going into 2012? It seems I can never get enough color, or sparkle! So for 2012 you will see a big emphasis on gorgeous colors in bright and tonal hues across all three metals. And then there is the bling factor—expanding my diamond category in a sophisticated and somewhat unexpected way has been fun for me. I just spent two weeks traveling in Asia and India and was completely inspired by EVERYTHING: the cuisine, the language, the architecture, the diversity and the dichotomy. Especially in India, you really have this interesting sense that while this is the oldest living civilization on earth, it is also incredibly modern in many ways. How do you account for your strong and dedicated following? When I started out, I was designing the kind of jewelry I wanted to wear but couldn’t find. No one was crafting truly wearable fine jewelry that you could wear everyday, all day. As I continued to develop my collection, it became clear that this concept of creating fashion fine jewelry resonated with women—all kinds of women. They embraced the wearability, the versatility and the collectability: the idea of building a wardrobe. What’s really inspiring is the range of women who wear my jewelry, from young ingenues to established actors to musicians and artists. What are you personally wearing a lot of these days? I love the simplicity and versatility of a long link chain; it’s the perfect day to night piece. I wear it doubled at the office and when I go out in the evening I wear it long with a great pair of drop earrings. The 19 gold and diamond bangles I wear everyday have become my signature and are definitely my favorites.

Transformative Power IPPOLITA’S JEWELRY INSPIRES CONFIDENCE. AND JOY! BY KAREN ALBERG GROSSMAN Other than design, what are you doing these days? One of my goals this year has been to make time for art—to see it, to create it, to appreciate it. Art rejuvenates and inspires me—it makes me a more creative designer. What are you most proud of? I am most proud of raising a confident and independent daughter and instilling in her the importance of pursuing your passions, working hard and being a good person. Of course I am immensely proud of the business I’ve created, but this is a team effort and I work with an incredible group of people. I believe we are all constantly evolving into the people we are meant to be, so while I embrace change, I really just try to live in the moment and be who I am.

When itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s for anEternity

Asscher cut, cushion cut, emerald cut, princess cut and radiant cut rings, from two to ten carats total weight.

1700 Utica Square, Tulsa, Oklahoma 74114

(918) 749-1700

www.brucegweber.com

FASHION

MIXED MATERIALS

FORMERLY FROWNED UPON, MIXED METALS AND STONES RULED THE FALL 2011 RUNWAYS. BY KELSEY WHITE

Runways

From the

TRENDS

POWER PIECES FASHION’S STRONG FAVORITES MAKE A STATEMENT. BY LORRAINE DEPASQUE Jeweler’s Resource Bureau, marketing and trend specialists in contemporary fine designer luxury brands. “To be in style, you need huge rings, long and dangling earrings, and a signature wide cuff—or a stack of ‘wristies’ to build that wide-at-the-wrist look. Also be sure to buy at least one statement necklace. If not, then you need several of the new extra-long links and chains to layer and create that big look at the neck.” In the necklace category, “Dramatic collars are important,” adds Jeanne Johngren, president of the Contemporary Jewelry Design Group (CJDG) and owner of an eponymous jewelry line. “Especially strong are unconventional ones with defining elements of a brand or designer making them extra special and further showcasing your distinctive style.”

SIZE MATTERS PEARLS WITH A NOTICE-ME “EDGE” Trite but true, there’s no other way to say it: These are not your grandmother’s pearls. In fact, insiders in the jewelry world no longer talk of “pearls” but instead “pearl fashion.” Unusual pearl statement jewelry is a must this year. “There has been a lot of pearl jewelry on the runways,” says Broili, “but it’s not about stark white pearls. Rather, the more warmed-up versions.” Some of the best brands are showing new collections with pale pinks, creams, and lavenders and, to underscore the special statement look, the pearls are often in irregular shapes—perfect in their imperfection!

When it comes to the hottest jewelry trends, it simply isn’t the time for simple. So, first and foremost, when choosing your statement jewelry, consider what fashion insiders call “the silhouette.” In the case of jewelry, that means big, wide, or long. Nothing small, itty-bitty, or dainty. Not now anyway. To help you make selections, here are some notes on the silhouettes of the season in several specific jewelry categories: CUFFS They needn’t be massive and bulky like back in the ’70s, but they should definitely be wide. Pierced or with cutouts maybe—not filigree, but more like the look of crochet or lace. RINGS Four of the new fashion favorites: chunky cocktail rings, with or without stones; uberwide bands; flat retro-looking cigar-band styles made to resemble the paper or foil loops fitted around cigars; and big “cuff rings” that are open at the bottom, allowing you to slightly adjust the fit yourself. EARRINGS Not quite “shoulder-dusters” (Remember that term?), the lengthy earring looks fresh, either worn slim like a stiletto, wider with bead tassels, or with the metal shaped into generously-sized marquise or teardrop patterns. LINKS AND CHAINS To mimic the size of a large collar or a big multi-strand choker, you need several, each at least 34 to 36 inches. Remember, this is statement jewelry, so the more the better. And because it’s your personal statement, buy a wardrobe of links and chains that are different from each other in terms of metals, gems and materials.

IMAGES COURTESY OF MARCO BICEGO, MATTIOLI, ERICA COURTNEY, DANIEL GIBBINGS AND ROBERTO COIN

his year’s number-one accessory is, without question, statement jewelry! It’s all about dramatic designs that reveal your self-assured personal style—jewelry that wows instead of whispers. Remember the fashion “winners” at the Academy Awards? Gwyneth Paltrow in mega-sized multi-color gem earrings with a matching brooch pinned at the hip of her curvehugging Calvin? Natalie Portman in rubellite tassel earrings swinging stylishly as she accepted her Best Actress Oscar? Helen Mirren in a bold white diamond pendant that added décolletage dazzle to her neutral gray Vivienne Westwood? Now that’s what we’re talking about! And not just for red carpets and evening wear. “This is the season—and the year—for bold jewelry fashion statements for day and night,” says Cindy Edelstein, president of the

HUGELY HOT (AND HAUTE) GEMS “This year, there is a riot of colored stones set in jewelry,” says Edelstein. Adriane Broili, designer and trend forecaster at The Doneger Group in New York City, adds, “The colors are usually bold and bright with an eastern influence—especially from Japan—but also strong shades à la African fusion.” James Alger, a gem cutter and stone importer who supplies the newest cuts and best gems to some of the biggest names in jewelry, says that this year, pinks are red hot, especially pink tourmaline, morganite and pink sapphire. “I haven’t seen pink stones so popular since 2002, when Jennifer Lopez got her 6.5-carat pink diamond engagement ring from Ben Affleck!” And speaking of pink diamonds, as they’re rarer than some other diamond colors— yellow, cognac and black, for example—natural color pink diamonds are the perfect choice for statement jewelry. Designers this season are sprinkling the smaller-size pinks in rose gold for a tone-on-tone jewelry look that becomes a great distinguishing everyday accessory—almost a “neutral” because of the monochromatic metal/gem combination. While pinks are important, so too are many of the blue and green gemstones. STATEMENT BLUES If you haven’t looked at blue chalcedony lately, do ask your jeweler about it. A treasured gemstone of the ancient world, contemporary designers are once again featuring this quartz, which has an ethereal adularescence. Also take a second look at aquamarine, another blue that high-end brands are rejuvenating by using it in transparent and translucent cuts in fresh and fashionable collections. STATEMENT GREENS The “newest” dramatic greens include green chalcedony, prasiolite (green quartz), chrysoprase and zultanite, a gem with colorchanging properties found only in Turkey. Zultanite’s kiwi and khaki greens are some of the shades this diaspore mineral can take on.

ATTENTION-GETTING METALS & MATERIALS “Darkened metal jewelry is especially important right now, much of it multi-culturally influenced and vintagy in look,” says Broili. “But the blackened and grayed metals can also have a very modern feeling,” says Edelstein. “In fact, darkened metals are part of what I see as one of the newest trends—something I call ‘Techno Funk.’ It’s fun and casual, with pieces made for lots of layering, draping and stacking.” The newest combinations of metals and materials on a single piece of jewelry really amp up the look-at-me element. Great show-stoppers often mix white, gray and blackened silver together. Or they combine precious gold or platinum with materials like enamel, ceramic, stainless steel, cobalt, titanium and, in some cases, esoteric meteorite or unusual woods. Bronze/high-karat yellow gold is a particularly important fashion pairing, as is palladium with sterling silver and touches of gold.

Celebrate.

The three-stone anniversary ring from Bruce G. Weber Precious Jewels.

1700 Utica Square, Tulsa, Oklahoma 74114

(918) 749-1700

www.brucegweber.com

FASHION

Fall’sEffortlessFashions FALL’S FUSS-FREE SEASON IS FILLED WITH FUR, LEATHER, SPARKLE AND SHINE. FROM METALLIC TO VELVET TO NAVAJO-INSPIRED PRINTS, THE TEXTURE AND DECIDEDLY COZY LOOK AND FEEL OF THE SEASON’S SOPHISTICATED SILHOUETTES ARE SURE TO MESMERIZE AND INTRIGUE ALL WHILE KEEPING YOU LOOKING EFFORTLESSLY CHIC.

FASHION

Leader of the Pack Don’t be afraid to mix textures, colors and prints. A fox vest, animal print top, red jean, croco embossed clutch and turquoise accented hat, although individually strong, come together in this unspeakably chic look. Fox Vest by June Sheer silk top by Hy & Dot Pant by Genetic Denim Clutch by Gilbert & Leona Shoe by Matt Bernson

Roberto Coin 18K Yellow Gold Bollicine Earrings $1,980

18K White Gold Diamond, Coral and Onyx Earrings $2,500

Ippolita Sterling Silver Turquoise Resin Ring $195

Ippolita 18K Yellow Gold Pailette 33" Necklace $2,500; 18K Yellow Gold Mini Lollipop Necklace with Round Cabochon Mother of Pearl $3,595

David Yurman 18K Yellow Gold Threads Diamond Ring $6,900

Rolex 36mm Stainless Steel and 18K Yellow Gold Datejust with Diamond Dial $11,800

Prices are subject to change.

Roberto Coin Sterling Silver and 18K Yellow Gold Martellato 6 Bangle Set $2,540

FASHION

Textured Elegance Although luxury and chic sophistication go hand in hand, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let a silhouette alone dictate the feel of a look; let the accessories help tell your fashion story. Dress from Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent Clutch by Santi Heel by Ash

Mikimoto 18K White Gold Opera Length Pearl Strand $5,900

Cushion Shape Diamond Ring in Platinum, 4.90 Carat t.w. $87,450

18K White Gold Diamond and Pearl Hoop Earrings $8,580

Roberto Coin 18K Yellow Gold Multi-color Stone Ipanema Earring $3,200

Roberto Coin 18K White Gold Diamond Cuff $4,900

Cartier 18K White Gold Delice with Diamonds $49,800

David Yurman Sterling Silver Diamond Starlight Ring $2,600

Prices are subject to change.

FASHION

A Rock N’ Roll Lady A sequin pant can be the ultimate in rock n’ roll style, but even a rock n’ roll goddess gets dressed up every once in a while. Try pairing these sequin statement pants with an architectural cut jacket and silk blouse to create an effortlessly put together rockin’ look. Jacket by Funktional Silk blouse by Iro Sequin pant by Genetic Denim Leather sandal by Ash

Denise RobergĂŠ 22K Yellow Gold Green Tourmaline Ring $7,400

David Yurman Sterling Silver Moonlight Ice Moon Quartz Ring $2,450

18K White Gold Tahitian Pearl & Black Diamond Necklace $2,789; 18K White Gold Tahitian Pearl & Black Diamond Necklace $4,125

Bell and Ross Aviation in White Ceramic with Diamond Bezel $6,700; Aviation in Black Ceramic on Ceramic Bracelet $3,700

Ippolita Sterling Silver Sky Doublet Crazy 8 Earrings $895

Prices are subject to change.

FASHION

Starry Night A little bit of sparkle can go a long way. Â The fluidity of this party dress is given a downtown gal goes glam lookÂ by pairing it with an opaque tight and short suede bootie. Dress by Funktional Tights by Commando Bootie by Matt Bernson

Denise RobergĂŠ 22K Yellow Gold Toggle Necklace $9,800; 22K Yellow Gold Aquamarine Cross Enhancer $6,590; 22K Yellow Gold Black South Sea Pearl Fob $5,750

Penny Preville 18K White Gold Diamond Necklace $3,995; 18K White Gold Diamond Chain $2,270; 18K White Gold Diamond Leaf Enhancer $5,340

David Yurman Classic Watch in Stainless Steel and 18K Yellow Gold, Diamond Bezel $5,900

18K White Gold/Yellow Gold Diamond Shoulder Duster Earrings $13,260

Roberto Coin 18K White Gold Diamond Hoop Earrings $7,900

Roberto Coin 18K Rose Gold Diamond Doublet Ring $5,580

Prices are subject to change.

FASHION

Tuxedo Redefined Modern day tuxedos were all the rage on the runways. By pairing a structured blazer with a pant in a similar color it will create a monochromatic effect, conjuring up the look and feel of a sleek suit. Collarless jacket by Iro Top by Aaron Ashe Pants by James Jeans Pumps by Dolce Vita

All clothing and accessories by Rowe Boutique www.roweboutique.com

Elizabeth Locke 19K Yellow Gold Square Dome Earrings $4,100 Ippolita 18K Yellow Gold PavĂŠ Diamond Ring $5,500

Denise RobergĂŠ 22K Yellow Gold Long Chain Necklace $13,564; 22K Yellow Gold Amber Enhancer $6,840 David Yurman 18K Yellow Gold Sculpted Cable Diamond Bracelet $15,000

Cartier Miss Pasha in Stainless Steel with 18K Pink Gold and Diamond Bezel. $12,900 Roberto Coin 18K Yellow Gold Bollicine Cuff $4,400 Prices are subject to change.

FASHION

Bringing it all

Together

So, what does it take to create the beautiful fashion images you see in magazines? A team effort. In this case, the team was our jewelry and watch buyers along with Maren Roth of Rowe Boutique, Peter Coe of Coe Photographic and many other talented, hard working individuals.

A little color can make a big splash

The colored stone jewelry collection, exclusively at Bruce G. Weber Precious Jewels.

The Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ring Collection. Stackable designs custom-made for Mom with the birthstones of her children.

WEDDINGS

TheBigDay

THE RINGS

BY KAREN ALBERG GROSSMAN

Keeping It Real WHY THE WORLD GOLD COUNCIL HAS ADDED A DOSE OF HUMOR TO THEIR NEW MARKETING CAMPAIGN.

he fact that almost 78 percent of women in the U.S. purchase gold wedding bands (according to a study by The Knot Market Intelligence) should keep the folks at the World Gold Council pretty happy. But according to Michael Pace, VP of marketing for the U.S. at the World Gold Council, there is no reason to get complacent. In fact, by adding some levity to their ad campaign, this organization is reminding both brides and grooms that gold plays a central role in a happy marriage. “We’re changing the tone of how we speak to younger consumers who are searching for their marriage bands, so the ads really engage them and stand out in the bridal category,” Pace explains. “The ‘Gold Makes it a Marriage’ campaign is also backed up big time by a new Facebook page with videos, ads and some very interactive features.” There’s even a ‘Makes it a Match’ app that takes information from your Facebook page and your partner’s, comparing them to show what you have in common.

The main message of the new campaign, according to Pace, is that most of the intricate details of your wedding (no matter how special) don’t last, and even the memories eventually fade, but the rings remain with you always. A gold marriage band is a symbol of a timeless and precious relationship and should therefore be a priority in your list of purchases for your wedding. “Your great uncle nearly breaking a hip to Bust a Move makes it a wedding; gold makes it a marriage” is a typical headline from the campaign. Then there’s a wonderful video, in which real married couples of all ages are asked about specific aspects of the big day. As might be predicted, their memories are vague and inconsistent; their responses are thus highly comical, especially some of the details that young couples obsess over (e.g. “We argued about the exact angle to set up the chairs…”). “Gold is the original and authentic metal of love and was used for marriage bands by the Romans as far back as the 2nd century A.D.,” explains Pace. “Our new campaign focuses on this intrinsic value: your relationship is genuine—make sure your ring is too. Our goal is to create an emotional connection with both brides and grooms…” And speaking of grooms, Pace says 97 percent of married men in the U.S. wear a wedding band, according to The Knot Market Intelligence study, and that most often it’s the only piece of jewelry they wear. So we say to those brides-to-be: You want him to keep the ring on his finger? Make sure it’s fabulous and make sure it’s real gold!

THE MESSAGE IS THE MESSAGE A key advantage of using gold for wedding bands is that it’s highly malleable and thus engravable. In fact, throughout the ages, messages printed on gold bands have revealed many wonderful secrets of adoration and adulation. For those who can’t get beyond ‘I luv u’, here are a few suggestions: To the moon and back • Worth waiting for • A deal’s a deal • A lifetime of happiness • You jump, I jump See www.facebook.com/gold for more information about how ‘Gold Makes it a Marriage’ B R I D A L

S E C T I O N

THE PROPOSAL

BY AUSTIN DIAS

Setting Sail

fter searching for weeks, I finally stumbled across the perfect ring. The center stone appeared to float among the tiny diamonds that surrounded it. Next, I went to visit her parents to ask them for their blessing. They were excited and shared their wisdom with me. Her Mom asked if she could see the ring, but I politely declined since I didn’t want anyone to see the ring before Jessica. I had been planning to propose on a weekend that was over a month away, but couldn’t stand having the ring, since I knew it belonged on her finger. I had a few ideas for what the ultimate proposal would be, but I finally settled on one that involved our love of sailing and was going to take a large amount of preparation, teamwork and secrecy. The plan involved borrowing a sailboat and organizing a crew of friends to sail the boat. I worked with a friend from a local sail making company to put “Marry Me?” on the spinnaker sail. Meanwhile, I was also contacting some of my best buddies to help crew the boat on this special mission. I created a plan for them that detailed multiple possible locations for the proposal: all depended upon the day’s wind direction and even included a “no wind” plan that involved putting the sail up and motoring backwards to make the spinnaker fly! The final piece of the puzzle was to have a professional photographer taking paparazzi-type photos while the proposal was unfolding. The night before, I called Jessica and told her that I had just received a gift certificate to a nice restaurant on the bay. I wanted to wait until the B R I D A L

last minute to make it seem like it was nothing special, until I found out her roommate had already made plans with her! I spent the next day scrambling to contact her roommate to convince her to cancel. Now the plan was in place! I met the crew at the boat and they all looked sharp in their khaki pants and white polos. They told me that I needed to leave! I was pretty nervous as I reviewed the plan over and over again. Finally, after what felt like the longest day of my life, I picked up Jess and headed down to the bay. I asked her if we could go on a walk and she agreed that it would be nice. The ring was burning in my pocket! Then we noticed a boat dangerously close to the rocks… “What is that boat doing?!” she asked, concerned. “I don’t know, let’s watch,” I replied. The big white spinnaker sail flew up and in large red letters she read, “Marry Me?” She turned around to find me on one knee and the ring sparkling in the sunset. She cried with excitement and said, “YES, YES, YES!” My ultimate proposal came together perfectly, with my friends cheering wildly, and I held my fiancée in my arms as she wore the ring of her dreams. The Jewelry Information Center’s second annual Ultimate Proposal Contest invited couples to submit their special proposal stories at www. JIC.org, and asked America to vote for a favorite amongst 10 Top Finalists. More than 6,000 people cast their vote to choose the winner. Austin Dias and his fiancée, Jessica Williams, won a seven-night Caribbean cruise from Norwegian Cruise Lines and a pair of platinum and diamond wedding bands. The story has been edited for ACCENT. S E C T I O N

THE JEWELS

BY HANNAH ROTH These platinum, sapphire and diamond rings are very similar to the engagement ring worn by Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge.

Shine On CHOOSE THE METAL THAT’S HOT WITH THE STARS.

latinum has long been heralded as the crème de la crème of jewelry settings. Not only is the metal durable and resistant to corrosion, but platinum is also rare and eternal, much like the qualities of love. Most celebrities choose platinum for their rings because they want their large diamonds (20.5 carats in Kim Kardashian’s case!) to be as radiant and beautifully showcased as possible. Another admirable quality of platinum is its natural white color, which flawlessly sets off the brilliance of the diamond and enhances the wowfactor. Here, some sparkling examples of why platinum is a gorgeous option for highlighting a gorgeous rock: Emily Blunt’s engagement to John Krasinski was made even more special by the addition of her three-carat Edwardian diamond and platinum ring. The custom-designed ring features side-scalloped detailing of alternating diamond and platinum ripples, emphasizing the

flawless cut and clarity of the center stone impeccably. The unique engagement ring given to Katherine Heigl by nowhusband Josh Kelley boasts a three-carat pear shaped diamond flanked by rows of pavé diamonds. The everlasting quality of platinum jewelry is apparent in this design—half of the platinum band is actually from Heigl’s mother’s own engagement ring! Beyonce and Jay-Z, the power-couple to rival all power-couples, exhibit their love in an equally powerful fashion. Beyonce’s 18-carat emerald-cut diamond set in platinum is reportedly worth $5 million and is a prime example of the brilliance and clarity a diamond can project when properly displayed.

FAST FACTS:

This brilliant cut diamond with pavé surround is comparable to Natalie Portman’s platinum and diamond engagement ring.

This three-stone ring closely resembles Kim Kardashian’s 20.5 carat stunner.

B R I D A L

S E C T I O N

IMAGES COURTESY OF PLATINUM GUILD INTERNATIONAL

• Platinum is naturally white, so it won’t cast any color on a diamond. • Platinum will never fade or change color. • Platinum is the strongest metal, making it the best option to securely hold large diamonds. • Platinum is eternal, with everlasting radiance and durability. • Platinum won’t chip or scratch. • Platinum is the most precious of metals.

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Learn about jewelry: Diamond buying guide The 4Câ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s of diamonds Jewelry care and cleaning Custom design

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TULSA FOOD & WINE

HappyHealthyHolidays TAKE A CUE FROM YOUR ANCESTORS: EATING HEALTHY DOESN’T HAVE TO BE ABOUT COUNTING CALORIES OR MAKING SACRIFICES. BY CAROLE AMBER s fall turns to winter and temperatures cool, the holidays hang in the distance. Times of celebration, sharing and family lay ahead— as well as gravy, pies and cookies galore. For many of us, tasty treats bring up an internal dilemma. How do I make healthy choices throughout the holiday season? As I see it, there is a simple answer to this question: eat like your great-grandparents ate. Back in the old days people ate what could be grown, caught or raised near them. Soil was rich, meat was a luxury and availability dictated the food choices. Animals roamed freely on grass pastures. Bread was made by hand. Sweets were made from scratch and with lots of love. As a result people ate whole and fresh foods according to the seasons. Their meals were colorful, varied and teeming with nutrients—while their plates contained whole grains, ripe vegetables and small portions. The ways of our great-grandparents are good rules of thumb for making healthy selections this holiday season. Choose meats without hormones, vegetables without pesticides and desserts made from scratch. Fill your plate three-quarters full with fresh foods and have fun with the rest. This is not about counting calories or making sacrifices—simply eat real food, the way nature intended. And savor it. Your body will thank you. For additional tips about making the holidays more healthful, we turned to some local experts. Anner Stone of Tulsa Organic Coop operates a grocery cooperative that offers weekly vegetable, meat and pantry bags by reservation. This nifty organization offers weekly whole, fresh and organic grocery bags packed with seasonal goodies and tailored recipes to boot. “I believe holidays are all about tradition,” says Anner, while she gives us the tip to “remember to eat healthy—it’s more fun!” To put these recommendations to use, try her fresh broccoli or green bean casserole or sweet potato bake to add a lovely vegetable to your table. Chris Emerson, owner of Naturalfarms, believes that “just because it is healthy doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice taste, tenderness, or quality!” Naturalfarms sells all-natural, organic and locally raised meats, cheeses and eggs. They even deliver to the Tulsa area, so keep them in mind when you are looking for your Thanksgiving turkey just like your great-grandparents’ bird. If ham is your protein of choice, make Naturalfarms’ recipe of ham with apple mustard glaze (organically cured without nitrites/nitrates). Lastly, impress your guests with sautéed pears and zabaglione for dessert. Made with seasonal fruit, eggs and just a bit of sugar, this fresh ending is the perfect way to finish a special meal. So as you head into the holidays, arm yourself with nourishing tips, soul satisfying recipes and whole ingredients. Tis the season for health and happiness. Carole Amber is Co-Founder & Editor of ChopSizzlePop! (www.chopsizzlepop.com)

Sautéed Pears with Zabaglione

Photo by Troy L. Amber

Broccoli or Green Bean Casserole Recipe by Anner Stone of Tulsa Organic Coop

Sautéed Pears with Zabaglione Recipe by Carole Amber and Silvia Volonta on www.chopsizzlepop.com Serves 6

1 pound green beans (Trim off the ends and cut in half. Drop into boiling water for 3 minutes, then drain. If using broccoli, cut florets into small pieces, boil for 30 seconds, then drain.)

Sautéed Pears 1 tablespoon organic unsalted butter 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar 4 firm ripe pears, cored and sliced 1 2 ⁄ teaspoon fresh nutmeg 1 2 ⁄ teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoon olive oil 1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced 3 tablespoons whole wheat flour 2 cups milk ¼ teaspoon sea salt 1 8 ⁄ teaspoon white pepper 1 2 ⁄ teaspoon Anner’s Mix (available at Tulsa Organic Coop)

Zabaglione 6 egg yolks 6 teaspoons sugar 1 cup Moscato d’ Asti (any good Moscato or Marsala wine will do)

Sauté the mushrooms in the butter and oil, until they are a rich deep brown. Add the flour and cook for one minute. Add the milk, Anner’s, salt, and pepper. Add the green beans or broccoli and pour into a buttered baking dish. Bake at 350˚ for 15 minutes. ■

Slice pears and set aside. Prepare the zabaglione by adding egg yolks and sugar to a double boiler. Turn heat under double boiler to medium. Beat mixture rapidly with a whisk until it begins to foam (1-2 minutes). Add Moscato and continue whisking vigorously. Be careful not to boil the mixture. Whisking does take some elbow grease—about 15 minutes total. Zabaglione is ready when it is foamy, dense and almost three times its original volume. Take off heat and set aside.

Sweet Potato Bake Recipe by Anner Stone of Tulsa Organic Coop 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 14⁄ inch thick slices 1 tablespoon sucanat 2 tablespoons chopped pecans 1 4 ⁄ teaspoon cinnamon 1 8 ⁄ teaspoon nutmeg 1 tablespoon butter Zest from the rind of one orange ¼ cup fresh orange juice

Prepare the pears by melting butter, brown sugar, nutmeg and salt in your skillet over medium heat. Add pears and sauté for 6-9 minutes or until they reach desired consistency. Remove from heat and plate (or serve in martini glasses for a fun option). Spoon zabaglione over pears and sprinkle with fresh grated nutmeg. Serve warm. ■

Toss everything except the butter and orange juice together and then place in a baking dish sprayed with non-stick spray. Dot with the butter and drizzle with the orange juice; bake covered at 350° for 45-60 minutes until the potatoes are quite tender. ■

Quick Healthy Holiday Tip:

Ham with Apple Mustard Glaze Recipe by Chris Emerson of Naturalfarms Serves 4

Eat a healthy meal before holiday parties to avoid over-indulging on holiday party trays. Include a good portion of protein along with vegetables—this will keep you feeling fuller longer during your holiday party. But if you feel the need to indulge in party foods, choose low-calorie and healthy holiday foods. Go for higher quality proteins (such as grilled chicken, seasoned turkey, lean deli meats or chicken kebabs), whole grain pastas, salsa (instead of using chips, spoon up thicker salsa straight from your plate or with a piece of chicken), steamed asparagus (one large spear has only four calories), boiled shrimp (22 calories for four large shrimp), and grapes (two calories apiece). On a cheese tray, go for lower-calorie selections such as soft goat cheese and Feta. Skip the cracker when eating hard cheeses.

1 (5-6 pound) fully cooked ham 1 4 ⁄ cup apple jelly 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Whole cloves (exact number will vary according to size of ham) Preheat oven to 350˚. Score the top of the ham in a diamond pattern, and press a whole clove into the center of each diamond. Place on a roasting rack in a roasting pan and bake 1 12⁄ hours. While ham cooks, melt jelly in a small sauce pan over medium heat until it is liquid and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in mustard. Spread evenly over ham and bake 35 minutes longer. (If using an uncooked ham, bake until it reaches an internal temperature of 160˚. This will require 5-8 minutes per pound. Glaze in last 30 to 40 minutes of cooking.) Let stand for 15 minutes before carving. ■

TRAVEL

Having It All WHY SACRIFICE INTIMACY FOR VARIETY WHEN YOU CAN HAVE BOTH? BY LENORE RICH

adore the warmth and sophistication of a small ship (why should I dine with thousands?) yet hate to forego the myriad activities of a large one. Wanting both options, and unsure if I’d be craving a burger bar or a sushi bar, a pomegranate martini or a double chocolate milkshake,

I set out to discover a “luxurious and healthful small ship experience” aboard a mega-ship. Just to be safe, I booked two one-week cruises aboard Celebrity’s award-winning Solstice Class ships, each easily housing 2,850 passengers

and touted by Frommer’s as “the most fragrantly beautiful mega-ships ever built.” Venues include a spa (with treatments like bamboo massage, acupuncture, Botox, and 14K gold facials), a fitness center with spectacular water views, and state-of-the-art theaters (one equipped for “cirque-type” aerialists). Lounge options include a martini bar with frosted counters and a molecular bar tended by lab coat wearing mixologists who create tantalizing smoking concoctions with liquid nitrogen. Consider the “Lawn Club”, a half-acre of real grass on which you can play bocce, hone your putting skills, sunbathe, picnic or sip chardonnay under the stars. And—to satisfy the newly-emerging cruise demographic of 30 to 50 year olds—a fabulous nightclub! y mission was to have it all, but without the lines, crowds and 5,000-plus calories a day (despite my husband’s desire for all of this!). So here’s what I found: Booking one of 130 coveted “spa-inspired” AquaClass staterooms grants exclusive entry to “Blu”, a signature dining room that “puts a spin on spa cuisine.” Here, open-seating breakfasts (smoothies and frittatas included) and healthful dinners are available in a serene, intimate setting. Unlimited access to the relaxation room and “Persian Gardens” (a peaceful enclave within the spa), Frette robes, Hansgrohe shower panels, and a spa concierge are among the enhancements. If spa-inspired is not your thing but pampering is, consider Concierge Class or a Butler suite.

WOULD I CRAVE A POMEGRANATE MARTINI OR A CHOCOLATE MILKSHAKE?

Don’t Leave Home Without It! • Pack sample sizes of suntan lotions, insect repellent and cosmetics. Consider ear plugs, chargers, a mini flashlight, crazy glue, baggies. • An over-the-door shoe caddy or organizer is a space saver in the cabin and a catch-all for small items. • Duct tape, now in an array of colors and patterns, can save the day. Repair a torn hem or handbag, secure rattling hangers or drawers in rocky seas, secure your favorite cap to the deck chair or personalize your black luggage for easy identification. Turquoise? Leopard? Go for it! • Copies of passports, credit cards, tickets and prescriptions (including eyeglasses) should be left with a contact and also carried with you. Or why not email them to yourself for easy access? • Cross pack with your travel companion. If one bag is lost or delayed you’ll each have something to wear! And seriously consider travel insurance for those unexpected problems. • Alert credit card companies, particularly if traveling out of the country, and find out which of them assess (hidden) foreign purchase fees, often 3%. • A current passport with an expiration date well beyond your travel return date is crucial. Check the expiration when booking your trip. Need a visa? Injections? Plan ahead!

Specialty restaurants were well worth the surcharge. In Murano, five (gorgeous!) servers treated our party of four royally, flambéing, deboning and tossing contemporary French cuisine tableside. Qsine, one of the most innovative restaurants on land or sea, was a culinary adventure. Forewarned that this venue is best experienced with others, our table of eight newfound friends perused menu offerings on iPads and Rubics-cube-likegizmos. The internationally-themed food was creative, delicious and outrageous, evoking much good cheer for the duration of our four-hour meal. (Although we missed the evening’s scheduled entertainment, we created our own.) To avoid the elaborate lunch buffet on sea days (a tough task since the aroma is hard to resist), we opted for lunch at the more sedate creperie, conveniently located near the gelateria! (Those in the know head here as soon as they board.) Celebrity has designed on-board programs categorized as Savour, Discover and Renew. I can hone the art of wine pairing or choose to detox for health and weight loss. I can learn a new language with Rosetta Stone or practice it in the iLounge. An urge to tango? Prepare a gourmet meal? How about a Smithsonian lecturer? The possibilities are overwhelming... so I head to the spa to de-stress! Clearly, there’s something for every taste on the high seas and I know I’ll be back to try it all! Or I can just sink into the closest cocoon chair with a pineapple caipirinha and do absolutely nothing!

WITH LIMITED STORAGE AND NEW AIRLINE WEIGHT REGULATIONS, PACKING LIGHT IS KEY. • Create a wardrobe based on solid neutrals. (Yes— sage is a neutral!) Fabulous accessories are key. Will your tablemates remember that you wore the same “column of black” on multiple evenings, or will they remember your gorgeous leopard scarf, red belt, or statement necklace? • Men: Good time to come out of your comfort zone with great belts, ties and watches. Try that pink or lavender shirt you won’t wear at home and prepare for compliments. • Note: Several cruise lines have relaxed their dress code to Country Club Casual. Those who lament leaving their gown or tux at home, play up the accessories. Diamonds and gemstones spell instant black tie glamour. • Consider the purchase of a new camera or laptop on board. Celebrity, an authorized Apple reseller, gives lessons in the iLounge—you’ll have the entire cruise to get advice from the experts.

PerfectGems

EXPLORE THE LITTLE LUXURIES THE WORLD HAS TO OFFER. BY DONALD CHARLES RICHARDSON

PRIVATE VIEW Not far from Missoula, Montana a wide stretch of foothills and hay meadows surrounds The Ranch At Rock Creek, a new, very luxurious guest ranch. Along with comfortable rooms, an impressive selection of wines and excellent food, there’s a full spa on site; activities in the area range from fly-fishing to skiing. For the guest who wants to experience nature in private without sacrificing creature comforts, the ranch offers the Trapper Luxury Canvas Cabin. Sequestered in a wooded area next to the creek, two miles from the main buildings, this suite has a king bed, gas fireplace, wine cooler, kitchenette stocked to your specifications, and even a Jacuzzi on the front porch. Perfect for the greenhorn who wants to get back to nature.

VICTOR HUGO ATE HERE This autumn, the hottest souvenir in Paris is a copy of the newly released Les Contemplations Gourmandes by chef Florian V. Hugo. A direct descendant of the legendary writer Victor Hugo, Chef Hugo’s new book contains 55 traditional French recipes enjoyed by his ancestor, with rare pictures, drawings, documents and quotes from Victor Hugo, and from other writers about the Les Misérables author and the culinary aspects of life. Instead of photographs of yourself in front of the Eiffel Tower, you’ll dazzle your friends with boeuf bourguignon, soufflé au fromage, biszue de homard, and macaron à la rose.

ACCENT INSERT: FRONT trim 8.75”x10.75” ISSUE: Fall Materials Supplied Insert: PDF/X-1a SHIPPED TO: Lisa Montemorra • 1384 Broadway, 11th Floor • New York, NY 10018 • Telephone: 212 710 7416 • Fax: 212 686 6821 • Email: lisam@busjour.com

PEACE OF MIND STARTS WITH PROOF OF QUALITY. Carat Weight 1.53

Color Grade E

Clarity Grade VS1

Cut Grade

Excellent

Laser Inscription Registry Number GIA 16354621

Natural Diamond Not Synthetic

A GIA report is certainty from the source. As creator of the 4Cs and the International Diamond Grading System,™ GIA sets the standards for diamond assessment, worldwide. Unbiased. Scientific. A report from GIA gives you a clear understanding of your diamond’s quality. Look for GIA Diamond Grading Reports and the jewelers who offer them. www.4cs.gia.edu

THE UNIVERSAL STANDARD BY WHICH GEMS ARE JUDGED.

AGENCY: The Shand Group, Chris Weakley 805 969 1068 ADVERTISER: GIA

GIA_AccentInsert_front_FNL.indd 1

PRODUCTION CONTACT: Melissa Helvey 818 242 2427 ISSUE: ACCENT Insert FRONT

8/31/11 12:56 PM

PerfectGems RÉPIT On any given evening during the “season” on the island of St. Barths, there are glamorous and very chic social events. Sometimes even the most indefatigable partygoer can use a break. During your vacation on this most perfect Caribbean island, get a reservation (you really will need one) at Bonito. This remarkable restaurant, where chef Laurent Cantineaux's French cuisine is influenced by his 10 years in Venezuela and has a decidedly South American flavor, is where all the island’s movers and shakers go for a delicious and stress-free evening. The ambiance is perfect with stunning views of the sea and a lovely French countrydecorated living room. The perfect place to recover from (or prepare for) a party.

THAT’S A GOOD LOOK FOR YOU

FROM THE TERRACE In the 17th century, a charming Byzantine church was built on the cliffs of the caldera above the Aegean on the lovely Greek island of Santorini. A very exclusive neighborhood of small houses grew up around the church. With terraces jutting out over the sea offering magnificent views of the legendary volcano, these were the residences of the wealthy for nearly three centuries. Now a Yades Historical Hotel, the Aigialos Luxury Traditional Settlement comprises 16 neoclassical houses, restored by master masons, retaining the original shapes and schemes. The comfortable rooms have marble floors and handsome furniture, there’s a restaurant and swimming pool…all the modern conveniences. But the sense of history remains, along with the views, which offer one of the most superb sunsets in the Mediterranean.

There’s a lot to see at the very fashionable Hotel Zaza in Houston, Texas. It’s often possible to spot visiting celebrities like Billy Idol, David and Victoria Beckham, and Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony (before the breakup they stayed in one of the Zaza’s “Magnificent Seven” suites: crystal chandeliers, gold bed covers, Persian rugs and terraces with soaking pools). Then there’s the extraordinary artwork. Owner Charles S. Givens regularly installs pieces from his private collection, by artists including Simon Procter, Isack Kousnsky and Helmet Newton, throughout the hotel. For guests who want to learn more about the art, the Zaza will arrange a private tour of the current exhibits with expert Steven Thompson. Sommelier Alex Aland opens a bottle of Châteauneuf-du-Pape to complete the artistic ambiance.

FOOD

Culinary Class

CHATEAU D'ANCY LE FRANC

IT’S A LOT MORE THAN COOKING... BY DONALD CHARLES RICHARDSON

n a quiet afternoon, an American tourist wandering around a shop in Rome struck up a conversation with the young woman behind the counter. After chatting for a few minutes, the saleswoman looked curiously at the customer, then leaned forward and confidentially asked why the visitor was shopping instead of sightseeing. “After all,” she whispered, “you have everything in the U.S.” It’s true that finding things to bring home is becoming increasingly difficult. Every fashion house in the world is represented in the U.S., and American jewelry shops not only have a full range of pieces created in America, but an elaborate and extensive collection of European designs as well. That leaves T-shirts, baseball caps and coffee mugs. Do you really need another one? There is one other thing, one aspect of a vacation that won’t shrink, fade, or crack over time: memories. Walking through the Piazza San Marco late at night, your first moments in the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur, watching

the Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London… while cooking dinner. For some people, the last thing they want to do during a holiday is see the inside of a kitchen. But there are many others who find the opportunity to learn a new dish to be a marvelous souvenir. Coming home with cooking knowledge has several advantages. It’s not something that needs to be declared at customs. An innovative dish can kick your confidence up a notch and make you feel like a real chef. And, of course, once a group of friends are gathered around your dining room table, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to tell your trapped guests all about your vacation. Cooking classes have in fact become a staple at leading restaurants and hotels all over the world. At the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, the hotel’s chefs, under the direction of executive chef Siegfried Eisenberger (1998 coach of the Apprentice Team and captain of the U.S. Culinary Olympic Team) guide novices to gourmets through topics such as Entertaining at Home, Summer Grilling, Hors d’oeuvres Made Easy and Dessert Specialties.

island), where the chef teaches about Cretan food. Next, everyone adjourns to the kitchen for a practical lesson featuring local ingredients. Of course, all sit down together to share the meal and a bottle of the local wine. Chef Philippe Masseglia at the famous Le Bartolomeo restaurant at the Hotel Guanahani on St. Barths also takes a casual approach to cooking classes. Guests who dine at his restaurant and like a particular item on the menu can simply ask how it’s made. They’re invited into the chef’s kitchen where he greets them as friends, opens a bottle of wine, and teaches them how to prepare their favorite dish. Nearly everyone (except maybe Greeks and Italians) agrees that French cooking is the ultimate gastronomic experience. The French take both cooking and eating very seriously and the country abounds in cooking classes. These two are bound to whet the appetite. In the Loire Valley, the Château Hotel de la Bourdaisiere is a magnificent 15th-century castle owned by Prince Louis Albert de Broglie. In this sophisticated and majestic environment, the park and the gardens are cultivated in the big market garden tradition. To bring to light the simple beauty found in a vegetable, the master gardener sets flowers and aromatic herbs in original arrangements in crannies of chestnut trees around the property. There are also 80 acres of park and historic gardens including a grand vegetable garden, famous for its collection of 650 tomato varieties (the château hosts an annual tomato festival). Here, cooking classes are many and may include harvesting produce from the garden, preparing lunch or dinner under the guidance of the chef, and even tours of local vineyards. VILLA LE MASCHERE

To make you feel even more official, the Broadmoor will arrange for you to take your apron home with you. In the summer, guests at the Hasting House Country House Hotel on Salt Spring Island in British Columbia are invited to catch Dungeness crabs. You’ll board a boat, help pull up a crab trap, and learn how to clean and prepare your catch. Finally, the executive chef teaches guests how to cook crab specialties and everyone sits down to a communal dinner. Then there’s the Borgo Santo Pietro, a 13th-century villa surrounded by 13 acres of gardens in the Tuscan hillside not far from Florence. In this peaceful setting (800 years ago pilgrims rested here on their way to Rome) cooking classes are held in the kitchen, under the guidance of chefs Richard Gynn or Nicole Ianesi. Guests have the choice of cooking a pasta, bread, or dessert item. If you want to truly indulge in Tuscan cooking, each year in April and October Borgo Santo Pietro offers a three-night, two-day Tuscan cooking experience. This special package features a visit to the cheese production hub in the local village of Palazzetto and a tour of the herb and vegetable gardens at Borgo, guided by the veggie garden keeper, Davide. After gathering ingredients, cooking classes begin with traditional Tuscan specialties: breads, antipasti, pastas and sauces. Also in Tuscany is Villa Le Maschere. Built in the 16th-century by the Bettini family, this villa is situated in the hills of the Mugello region near Lake Bilancino. The stunning site is important not just for aesthetic reasons but because Mugello has the highest agricultural production rate in all of Tuscany. In its

COOKING CLASSES HAVE BECOME A STAPLE AT LEADING RESTAURANTS AND HOTELS ALL OVER THE WORLD. panorama, white wild boar and sheep feed on chestnuts and porcini and the region’s famous cattle graze freely. Naturally, this location has a dramatic effect on the cooking classes. Master Chef Fabio Matteo Danzo begins his classes by selecting from the region’s (and the season’s) freshest ingredients. Students prepare a meal at the hotel’s Il Pioppo Nero restaurant. Once the cooking is completed it’s tutti a tavola overlooking the Tuscan countryside from which the wonderful meal emanated. The Greeks are famous for their hospitality, particularly around the dinner table; it’s not unusual for meals to go on for hours. One of the most famous areas for food is the island of Crete. Here, not only is the cuisine delicious, it’s also rumored to be one of the healthiest diets in the world. The Cretans eat primarily only what they grow or make. At the lovely Avli in Rethymnon, the cooking classes are relaxed events. Guests are invited to gather in the garden restaurant (one of the most beautiful locations on the

The Château d’Ancy-le-Franc, in Burgundy, is a Renaissance palace. It’s considered a work of art, by the famous Italian architect Sébastiano Serlio, master of symmetry and of 16th-century architecture, who was summoned to the French court by François I. The château sits on the lands of the Dukes of Burgundy and contains the largest collection of Renaissance murals in France. Cooking classes are taught by Parisian chef Judicael Ruch and take place in the old kitchens, which in the 17th century belonged to Louis XIV’s famous minister, the Marquess of Louvois, and once even hosted the king. Each course is paired with Laroche wines from the region. There’s more to gain than simply learning how to sauté or mix. Along with chefs and other students, you’ll meet sommeliers, gardeners and pastry experts. And once you arrive back at home, you can enthrall your guests with tales of kitchen adventures as you serve your latest accomplishment. As Julia Child said, “Dining with one’s friends and family is certainly one of life’s primal delights, both soul-satisfying and eternal.”

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The Ultimate Gift GOOD HEALTH IS ALL THAT MATTERS, BUT GOOD DIAMONDS CAN’T HURT... BY HANS GSCHLIESSER

or better or worse took on significant meaning this year as I watched the woman I love suffer through a medical crisis. It started when, for some unknown reason, Janet stopped cooking. This was simply unfathomable to me. She loves to cook! And I love to eat. As if this wasn’t bad enough, she also stopped eating, saying that the mere smell of food was making her nauseous. She totally refused to go anywhere near the kitchen. As I am a terrible cook, we were both getting thinner by the day. “I know you want to lose a few pounds, but don’t you think this is a bit extreme?” I asked her. No answer. Was this some sort of psychological rebellion against me? It is about me isn’t it? Knowing something was very wrong, we called in doctors. There were endless tests with endless specialists but still no answers. In a state of helpless confusion I watched as my wife withered away physically and emotionally. I watched as the ambulance took her to the hospital, as she received more tests from more specialists. Then finally, a diagnosis: “Your wife is anorexic, has a brain hemorrhage and Bacterial Endocarditis, which has destroyed her heart valve. She needs open heart surgery.” I sat there white as a ghost as the blood drained from my body. Bacterial what? By now, Janet was gaunt, exhausted and terrified at the prospect of

surgery, which was to be scheduled after eight weeks of daily IV antibiotics, administered by me, at home. To regain her strength, she needed to eat. Luckily, supportive family and friends precluded the need for my cooking. Slowly she regained her appetite as the antibiotic killed off the nasty little Streptococcus Viridans bacteria. But the looming prospect of open heart valve replacement surgery haunted us every minute. Ultimately, the day arrived and we drove to the hospital in a state of disbelief. The surgery was scheduled for Valentine’s Day, which felt like a good omen. After five intense hours, the surgeon came out to inform me that all had gone well. I could finally breathe. And to celebrate the ultimate gift of my wife getting a new heart for Valentines Day, I surprised her with a pair of diamond earrings. The nurse ran into the room in a frenzy when Janet’s EKG lit up the monitor, but it was only her heart fluttering as she opened the box and saw the earrings. “I’ve always wanted these; I’m never taking them off!” she exclaimed with joy and gratitude. It was just what the doctor ordered to renew the twinkle in her eyes, the radiant smile, the prospect of normalcy. And how we both craved the monotony of normal routine living! Routine living, with a little extra sparkle.

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Tulsa

Bruce G. Weber Precious Jewels is proud to support these worthy causes: Alzheimer’s Association, Memory Gala • Brush Creek Ranch • National Vaccine Safety/Vaccine for Victoria Habitat for Humanity • The Little Light House • Philbrook, Wine Experience • Tulsa Medical Missions Indian Health Care Resource Center, Dance of the Two Moons Heart Association, Go Red for Women, Heart Ball Tulsa Opera • American Cancer Society, Cattle Barons Ball & Rib Crib Golf Tournament • Leukemia Society The Children’s Hospital at St. Francis, Painted Pony & our Annual Ladies Tennis Tournament • United Way Indian Nations Council, Boy Scouts of America • American Lung Association, Beaujolais Noveau American Legion • Tulsa Project Women • Family & Children’s Services, Brainiac Ball & Care Card • Tulsa Ballet Light Opera of Oklahoma • Oklahoma State University Alumni Association Bartlesville Symphony Society OU College of Pharmacy/ Make a Wish Foundation • Extreme Home Makeover • ALS, Hunt for a Cure

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BRUCE G. WEBER ACCENT THE MAGAZINE OF LIFE’S CELEBRATIONS

FALL/HOLIDAYS 2011