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By Jen Myers

Look at my baby. I mean it. Look at him.

See that adorable face? Those chubby cheeks? You don't honestly expect me to put those cute toes in a stroller so I can torture myself on a 10-mile run through Forest Park, do you? Of course, that had been my plan BEFORE Finn was born in 2009. Back in those heady, over-achieving days, I was determined to lose my baby weight AND train for a half-marathon just as soon as my son arrived. Yes, I had motherhood all figured out. Then reality set in. Within weeks of Finn's birth, I was back to rising at 3:30 every morning, hoping to be reasonably coherent by the time I went live on the air two hours later. By mid-afternoon the LAST thing on my mind was a marathon, unless you count the times I was running to the store for baby food. Besides, who has time to exercise when you're juggling work and family? I also craved time for other things I enjoy, such as SLEEP. Exercise? Are you kidding me? I owed it to my myself not to. At least that's how I rationalized the less-than-perfect shape I was in when Finn celebrated his first birthday. Then I learned about 20 Minutes to Fitness, a place where you can supposedly get fit in just 20 minutes a week. I say â&#x20AC;&#x153;supposedlyâ&#x20AC;? because I was skeptical. It went against everything I have ever heard and believed about fitness. But by this time, my knees hurt and my back ached. And 20 Minutes to Fitness' protocol was, by all accounts, medically based and performed on special physical therapy equipment. I mean, doctors work out there. Long story short: I tried it. And I liked it. Encouraged by my personal coach, I today work harder during those 20 minutes than any other time all week. Afterwards, I also feel better. My muscles are toned. My aches have gone away. My clothes fit better.

Jen Myers, 35, of Y98's Phillips & Co. with her son, Finn. By the way, 20 Minutes to Fitness isn't just for new moms. It's great for anyone who is starved for time: elite high school athletes, busy professionals, car-pool captains. That includes dads, too. Thanks to 20 Minutes to Fitness, we can all spend more time doing the things that really matter. I mean, look at my baby. Then give 20 Minutes to Fitness a call. Tell them Jen sent you.

For more information on 20 Minutes to Fitness, call its studios in Clayton (314-863-7836) or Chesterfield (636-536-1504) or visit www.20minutestofitness.com.

Contents december

68 cover

The Real Deal St. Louis native David Giuntoli sheds light on his dark role in NBC’s new show, “Grimm.”

features

Wish List The hottest gifts for everyone on your list. St. Louis Shopping Guide The city’s ultimate holiday shopping directory.

88 fashion

Now Voyager Travel back in time as fashion trends emulate the good old days.

stl now 22 7 things you must do this month. 24 C alendar Ring in the New Year, do the Jingle Bell Rock and more.

50 Spirits Have yourself a merry little cocktail.

self 52 H ealth & Fitness Beat the bloat this holiday season.

28 S TL NOW A sneak peek inside Esther, Ladue’s newest boutique.

weddings

30 Hot Eats Baileys’ Range serves inventive burgers and milkshakes with a kick.

54 e ngagements Three St. Louis couples share their recently ringed moments.

32 Job Envy Anthropologie Visual Manager Trina Bellavance can get anyone into the holiday spirit.

56 w eddings A St. Louis couple’s journey to forever.

34 column ALIVE ParentPop blogger shares the secret to surviving the hectic holidays. 36 Buzz Hometown rockers Ludo return to St. Louis for A Very Ludo Christmas. 38 old is new Think outside the gift box this holiday season.

style 40 s tyle Chunky-knit winter wear keeps you stylish and cozy this season. 42 St yle Craft the perfect suit, and go anywhere in style. 44 Acc essories A “clutch” accessory for your winter wardrobe.

home 48 H oliday Entertaining ’Tis the season for a festive holiday table.

community 58 GE T INVOLVED Spread holiday cheer by giving back through your favorite activities of the season. 60 SOCIAL SCENE Photos from the Carousel Gala, the Key to the Cure Kickoff and St. Luke’s Hospital Girls’ Night Out.

resources 96 R ESTAURANT GUIDE The best places in town to eat, drink and dance.

scene 104 S CENE IN ST. LOUIS Exclusive coverage of Saint Louis Fashion Week. 112 a rchetypes A conversation with Kathleen Finneran, author and Writer in Residence at Washington University.

Correction: In the November 2011 issue, the hair and makeup artists for Men of Style on p.76 were incorrectly listed. Hair and makeup for Men of Style was completed by Valerie Brown (thevaleriebrown.com), Megan Dugan (makeupishaute.com) and Alison Silvagnoli Hampton (Alisonjosilvagnoli@yahoo.com). In addition, the watch featured on p.87 of The Manual was incorrectly labeled. It is a Breitling Montbrilliant Legende Limited, available at Simon’s, Clayton, 314.725.8888. ALIVE regrets these errors. ALIVE, December 2011, Volume 8, Issue 12 (Periodical #025092) is published monthly by ALIVE Media Group, L.L.C., 2200 Gravois Ave., #201 St. Louis, MO 63104-2848. Periodicals Postage paid at St. Louis, MO, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to ALIVE, 2200 Gravois Ave. #201 St. Louis, MO 63104-2848. One-year subscription rate $12.00; two-year subscription rate $18.00. To order a subscription call, 314.446.4059 or log on to alivemag.com.

8 ALIVE STL DECEMBER 2011

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Left photo by Carmen Troesser; middle photo by Brian Higbee/CPi Syndication; right photo by Jennifer Silverberg.

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Stella Artois Presents... President / Co-founder: Elizabeth Tucker Editor-In-Chief / Co-founder: Kelly Hamilton Fashion Director / Co-founder: Attilio D’Agostino Publisher: Damon Johnson Executive Editor: Jennifer Dulin Wiley Fashion Editor: Jill Manoff Associate Editor: Gwen Ragno Contributing Writers

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from the publisher

his holiday season, we at ALIVE have a lot to be thankful for. As the staff and I took a look back at 2011, we had a blast remembering the highlights of the year. To take a page out of the Synergy Productions playbook, here are my top 11 moments from 2011 (in no particular order).

1 Raising more than $10,000 for local charities during Saint Louis Fashion Week. 2 Welcoming several amazingly talented new team members. 3 Launching the August “Work Issue” to great community response. 4 Launching ALIVE Dates. 5 Seeing Sam Bradford on our November Men’s Issue Cover. 6 Taking a hard hat tour of the Peabody Opera House before its grand opening in October. 7 Emceeing our Fall Fitness event with Leisa Zigman to raise awareness for Pedal The Cause. 8 Growing our distribution (now you can find us in Whole Foods and on newsstands in Schnucks, Dierbergs, Walgreens and more). 9 Seeing our June 2010 Hot List cover man (and fellow Lafayette alum) David Freese earn the NLCS and World Series MVP. 10 Re-introducing the GLOW Spring Fashion Show to a sold-out crowd. 11 Most recently, launching our latest themed e-newsletter, the ALIVE StyleList, by Fashion Editor Jill Manoff.

In addition, we produced more than 20 events, continued a very successful entrepreneur-focused lecture series, and topped our Fashion Week attendance record. Inevitably, with each win, we face new challenges. 2011 was certainly no exception, but these lessons make us all stronger—and even more creative. It’s this creativity and passion that has kept ALIVE moving forward for nearly a decade—2012 marks our 10th anniversary of serving St. Louis! To celebrate, we have several surprises in store for next year. I, for one, can’t wait for another year of growth and success. In order to immortalize 2011, we all have plenty to reflect on and savor from the past 12 months. I hope you can join us on Friday, Dec. 9 at 9pm for our annual Holiday Bash at Mandarin. This year-end staple will be packed, so be sure to RSVP early to holidaybash@alivemag.com. If you haven’t made plans yet for New Year’s Eve, check out our NYE party guide on p.100. And, remember to make sure you get out to dine, drink and shop our locally owned businesses this holiday season! Photo by Wesley Law, shot on location at The Lawrence Group.

Happy Holidays–

Damon Johnson publisher

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on the calendar ALIVE Holiday Bash Friday, Dec. 9

Celebrate the season with us at Mandarin. Come early to enjoy drinks, and stay late to dance the night away.

Sips in the City CAM Nights Friday, Dec. 16 Thursday, Dec. 15

Head to Culinaria in supAttend port ofSTL’s Unitednewest Way of happy hour, with for $1 the Greater St. Louis beers, $2 cocktails and December edition of this music at the Contempopopular happy hour series. rary Art Museum. alivemag.com

2012 SAINT LOUIS AUTO SHOW CHARITY GALA SPONSORED BY:

PARTNERS:

Come join us for an evening on the town at the area’s premier automotive show. Enjoy a night of premium cocktails, passed hors d’oeuvres, and a performance by Las Vegas headliner Gerry McCambridge, “The Mentalist.” The inspiration for the TV show, The Mentalist. Along with an exclusive viewing of the Million Dollar Mile after the Gala, silent auction, music, free admission to the After Party at The Pepper Lounge and more! Proceeds will benefit Herbert Hoover Boys and Girls Club, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Operation Food Search, St. Louis Arc, St. Louis Auto Dealers Charitable Foundation, St. Louis Crisis Nursery, and TASK (Team Activities for Special Kids).

Saturday, January 28 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm For more information visit saintlouisautoshow.com or call 314-822-0333

from the editor

BLOG POSSE Finding ways to keep you trendy, cultured and inspired.

parentpop Lisa Bertrand on parenting in the age of products and pop culture.

ome people just naturally have the knack for gift giving. Each time the holidays come around, they manage to have a unique and thoughtful gift that’s so absolutely perfect for each person, it puts everyone else’s gifts to shame. I am not one of these people. I’m the gift giver whose knit hat (which I still defend) has jokingly gone down in history as one of the “worst gifts” of an annual holiday exchange among my girlfriends. I’m also the one who’s since learned that buying clothes for your husband that you’ve never seen him wear before—but that you think will look good—is never a winning strategy. It’s not that I didn’t think about a gift for my brother that didn’t come in the form of a card; it’s just that when I went through the exercise of nixing everything on the maybe list, a “now-youcan-buy-anything-you-want” gift seemed the most attractive option. But not this year—thanks, in part, to the content in our Holiday Issue. No matter how you play it, shopping (especially holiday shopping), needs strategy, which is why the 2011 version of our annual Wish List (p.70) has been carefully created in an easy-to-follow flowchart that points you to the perfect gift for anyone on your list—from the significant other who has everything to your quirky dad and ultra-picky BFF. It’s no coincidence that our holiday gift guide is immediately followed by a comprehensive local shopping directory (p.78)—with even more hot gift ideas from all of your favorite STL retailers. The inspiration continues with a fun snapshot of vintage, antique and handmade items to help you think outside the gift box (p.38), plus an insider’s look into one of St. Louis’ newest boutiques, Esther (p.28) in Ladue.

thegreenery Longtime green blogger Jeff McIntire-Strasburg digs into the sustainability scene—in St. Louis and beyond.

With holiday shopping madness in full swing, it couldn’t be a better time for the launch of ALIVE’s all-new shopping e-newsletter by our longtime Fashion Editor, Jill Manoff. For our many fashion-happy readers, the ALIVE StyleList delivers the latest shopping news and the looks we’re loving now directly to your inbox each Thursday. With a focus on what’s hot on the independent/ local shopping scene, including boutiques, specialty shops and more, the StyleList is the STL shopaholic’s must-read (subscribe now at alivemag.com/ newsletters). Think of it as your own personal present for the season—and one that promises to maintain your shopping sanity at least a time or two.

Photo by Wesley Law, shot on location at The Lawrence Group.

Christmas came early this year for one local family—when STL native and SLUH grad David Giuntoli was cast on NBC’s dark new crime drama “Grimm,” which premiered in late October and is already NBC’s highest-rated drama series premiere this season (read the cover story on p.68). The Midwest native shares the tales of his adventures in Hollywood and his unfolding TV stardom while revealing a type of raw humor and humility that only a St. Louis guy in Hollywood could. And, as he reveals Christmas is the “greatest time” to come back to St. Louis, you might see this rising star at one of his favorite local hangouts (Franco is his current pick) when he’s home for the holidays this year.

thestylelist ALIVE’s Fashion Editor Jill Manoff on shopping news and the looks she’s loving right now.

Jennifer dulin wiley executive editor

If it’s happening in STL,

it’s on ALIVEMag.com.

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C h a r i t y F u n d r a i s e r N o v. 2 8 - D e c . 2 2

s y a d i l o H e h t f o y t u a e B e h Share t Help Metro Design Studio Salons support area homeless, pregnant women and their children. Please donate unused, packaged toiletry items and hair, skin and beauty products at our four locations. All items will be donated to the Our Lady’s Inn shelters in St. Louis City and St. Charles.

Thank You and Happy Holidays from the Metro Design Studio Salons Staff! Walk Through the Doorway of SUCCESS! Studio Salons Available for Lease Call Lise Napoli at 314.983.0444 or log onto mystudiosalon.com for more information. University City - 612 N. McKnight • Des Peres - 2153 Barrett Station Rd. Creve Coeur - 12536 Olive Blvd. • Chesterfield - 1662 Clarkson Rd.

jennifer silverberg

kate allen

For this month’s issue, photographer Jennifer Silverberg had a few great assignments. Photographing food (Baileys' Range, p.30) and drinks (Spirits, p.50) is always a favorite for Jennifer. Photographing a beautiful tablescape designed by Cosmopolitan Events was added to the list for holiday inspiration (p.48). Jennifer’s work has recently been published in "The New York Times," "You Magazine UK" and "Reader’s Digest UK." See more of her work at jsilverberg.com or jennifersilverberg.blogspot.com.

With a style all her own and an eclectic taste in everything, Kate Allen is a regular at flea markets and vintage boutiques alike. A Cherokee local, she spends her weekends browsing the windows up and down St. Louis’ famed Antique Row. She balances signature style with timeless staples, and her gift-giving etiquette is no different. After gifting her ultra-feminine BFF a vintage X-Men tee, and getting her to actually wear it, Kate seemed like the perfect fit for this month’s Think Outside the Gift Box article (p.38).

Carmen Troesser

amy de la hunt

Carmen Troesser got plenty of ideas for her holiday shopping list when shooting the Wish List (p.70) for this issue. Carmen’s list is complete (Thanks Jill!), and yes, the vintage Monopoly game did make the final cut. Now if she can just get everything picked up before Dec. 25, it will be a miracle...and a record! As far as her personal wish list goes, (hint, hint) the Prada bag is near the top. See more of Carmen’s work at carmentroesser.com.

Thanks to her interview with “Grimm” star (and STL native) David Giuntoli, freelance writer and editor Amy De La Hunt got new perspectives on three fantasy worlds: the surprisingly sinister original Grimm’s fairy tales, the imaginary dangers lurking in their TV interpretations, and the reallife Hollywood where Giuntoli is living out his own happy ending (read the cover story on p.68).

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Jennifer Silverberg photographed by Edward Crim; Kate Allen photographed by Ben Rieder; Carmen Troesser photographed by Linda Troesser; Amy De La Hunt photographed by Katie Clancy.

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ALIVEMag.com Introducing the ALIVE StyleList E-Newsletter!

Weekly shopping news and the looks we’re loving now.

Klutch Boutique

> Now ALIVE’s Fashion Editor Jill Manoff delivers shopping news and tips straight to your inbox each week. As ALIVE’s longtime fashion expert, Jill has earned a reputation as one who is in-the-know on the fashion front. Local designers spoil her with sneak peeks of their upcoming collections; she gets to preview stores before they open; boutique owners give her the scoop on what they saw at the various buying markets, and when their most exciting shipments will arrive. Let’s just say STL’s many style sources have never been shy about sharing news with Jill— and it’s high time she starts sharing the love. Now, ALIVE’s fashion-happy readers can Scan the tag receive the ALIVE StyleList ewith your newsletter from Jill each Thurssmartphone to day. Simply log on to alivemag. subscribe to the com/newsletters to join the StyleList. Visit exclusive list. If it’s happening http://gettag. in fashion, Jill will make sure mobi to get the you know about it—because free app and friends shouldn’t keep secrets, gain access to and they should always share bonus content. good fashion finds.

Check Out the New Connect with local singles who like what you like at alivemag.com/dates.

Enter to Win Now! > GLAM salon in South City is offering one lucky

ALIVE TV: Street Talk

winner a $50 certificate to come experience the hottest hair trends and beauty techniques. Enter for your chance to win at alivemag.com/contests. The winner will be announced on Dec. 16.

What’s on Your Wish List this Holiday Season?

> As if our annual Wish List feature (p.70) isn’t enough, we sent the ALIVE Street Team out on the town to get the 411 from our readers on the top gifts on their holiday Wish Lists this season. From fashion and tech to quirky and random, we heard it all. See what St. Louis shoppers had to say, and share your top Wish List item on our ALIVE Around Town staff blog at alivemag.com/blog.

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18 ALIVE STL DECEMBER 2011

See what the ALIVE staff is up to on our blog, ALIVE Around Town, at alivemag.com/blog.

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Top Chefs October 23

More than 500 burger-lovers gathered outside the RE/MAX Platinum Office in the CWE for ALIVE’s third annual Top Chefs competition. Local chefs, including Rex Hale of Three Sixty, Wes Johnson of Salt, Adam Altnether of Taste, Kyle Patterson of Lucas Park Grille, René Cruz of The Stable and Jon Lowe of Oceano Bistro, each crafted a unique burger to showcase their best qualities. Guests tasted and voted for their favorites, washing it all down with complimentary Coors Light and Blue Moon, and mixed drinks from the cash bar operated by The Pour House. Judges, including last year’s Top Chef, Josh Roland, did the same. Rex Hale won both the People’s Choice award and the judges’ approval, which earned him a $500 donation to the charity of his choice, The Sylva Spoon. Photos by Emma Birge-Osborne and Annie Hobbs/ALIVE Scene Team. For more photos, log on to alivemag.com/photos.

Emily King & Kevin Jiang

Chef Rex Hale

Judges Cristy Miller, Mark Moxley, Scott Drake & Josh Roland

John Thilenius, Chris Clausen, Brian Wiegen, Josh Hutchison, Wade Crowder, Diane Thilenius & Stacy Wilshusen

Nathan and Nilses Penha

Chefs René Cruz, Adam Altnether, Wes Johnson, Rex Hale, Jon Lowe & Kyle Patterson

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CAM Nights Kickoff October 20

Young professionals and Cardinals fans gathered at the Contemporary Art Museum for the first CAM Nights. This monthly happy hour series features live DJs and great drink specials in a chic gallery setting. Since the Cardinals were playing the Texas Rangers in the World Series that night, guests watched the game on the museum’s massive 15-foot screen as they mingled and chatted. The bars offered $1 Magic Hat, Blue Moon, Miller Lite and Coors Light beers, as well as $2 Purus Vodka cocktails, including the “Go Redbirds!” martini. An Entre Underground food truck parked just outside was a favorite stop for guests to bring in tasty burgers, smoked chicken sliders and pork tacos. Photos courtesy of CAM and Kevin Shee/ALIVE Scene Team. For more photos, log on to alivemag.com/photos.

Stephen Rau

David Hartwell & Unitey Kull

Chad and Jessica Miller

DJ Grocery

stl now

7 Things you m ust d o this m onth

Ring In The New Year

Say goodbye to 2011 with family, friends and thousands of St. Louisans at First Night Saint Louis on Dec. 31 at Grand Center. This year’s theme is Xanadu, a mythological playground that serves as the setting for hours of entertainment, including music, stories and dancing at venues around Grand Center. When the clock strikes midnight, fireworks will light up the sky to celebrate the first night of the year. More info at grandcenter.org.

Run with the Pack

Put some “Ring-a-Ding-Ding” in your ears Dec. 6-18 at The Fox and see “Christmas with the Rat Pack,” a tribute to three of the world’s most talented entertainers, Frank, Sammy and Dean. Complete with a live big-band and the fabulous Burelli Sisters, the production brings such cheerful and heart-warming songs as “Fly Me to the Moon” and “That’s Amore,” with seasonal favorites like “Baby it’s Cold Outside” and “Winter Wonderland” sprinkled throughout the show. For more info and to purchase tickets, visit fabulousfox.com.

Frost Yourself

Kick off the holiday season at the first annual Ice Ball at The Roberts Orpheum Theater on Dec. 3. Guests will experience an alternative runway hair show, featuring salons and stylists from all over the city, in addition to performances by local university dancers and an aerialist from Bumbershoot. Silent auctions will support local businesses, and profits from ticket sales will benefit Children’s Miracle Network and the Andrew Gomez Dream Foundation.

Grab your family and friends and head to the Missouri Botanical Garden to celebrate Chanukah at the Festival of Lights on Dec. 18. Enjoy traditional Israeli holiday music and dancing, watch the customary menorah-lighting ceremony and shop for Chanukah merchandise from local vendors and the Garden Gate Shop. More info at mobot.org

Tickets and more info at theiceballstl.com.

Deck the Halls

Don your finest cocktail attire and join ALIVE for its annual Holiday Bash at 9 p.m. on Dec. 9 at Mandarin Lounge, one of the city’s hottest nightspots. Get into the holiday spirit and toast the season with a fashionable crowd of ALIVE friends, readers, clients and VIPs, as ALIVE celebrates another successful year and looks forward to an exciting 2012. Stay late to heat up the dance floor and party the night away with a lively and stylish crowd. More info at alivemag.com.

22 ALIVE STL DECEMBER 2011

Steal Christmas

That pesky Grinch will find his way into your hearts and houses again this holiday season with Dr. Suess’ “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Kids from 1 to 92 will enjoy the awardwinning Broadway production of one of the most popular Christmas stories and its infamous antihero at Peabody Opera House Dec. 7-18. Tickets and more info at peabodyoperahouse.com.

Do the Jingle Bell Rock

There was a time when there was nothing hardcore about holiday music. Then, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra came along and added power chords to the mix. Catch the group as they rock the Scottrade Center on Dec. 17 as part of their Winter Tour 2011. Not only will it get you into the holiday spirit, but you’ll be air-guitar-ing along to “Carol of the Bells” in no time. More info at scottradecenter.com.

alivemag.com

Top left photo courtesy of the Ice Ball; Chanukah: Festival of Lights photo by Leslie Wallace, courtesy Missouri Botanical Garden.

Light the Night

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Calendar: December

Hot Pick

key

Rachael Yamagata at Blueberry Hill

MUSIC SCOTT MACINTYRE Dec. 2, Sheldon Concert Hall

Witness former American Idol contestant Scott MacIntyre’s incredible singing as he performs a benefit concert for the Delta Gamma Center for Children with Visual Impairments. More info at dgckids.org (3648 Washington Blvd., Grand Center). THE FOUR SEASONS Dec. 2-4, Powell Symphony Hall

Prepare to be impressed by the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and guest violinist, Jennifer Koh, as they play Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons.” Tickets at stlsymphony.org (718 N. Grand Blvd., Grand Center). RACHAEL YAMAGATA Dec. 7, Blueberry Hill

Blues-rock diva Rachael Yamagata brings her sensational singer-songwriter-keyboardist skills. Tickets at ticketmaster.com (6504 Delmar Blvd., The Loop). SOUNDS OF THE SEASON Dec. 9-11, Touhill Performing Arts Center

Attend one of St. Louis’ most lively holiday events as the Ambassadors of Harmony hit the Touhill for their annual caroling extravaganza. More info at touhill.org (1 University Blvd., Florissant). EILEEN IVERS AND IMMIGRANT SOUL Dec. 10, Sheldon Concert Hall

Eileen Ivers shows off her Grammy award-winning talent for “An Nollaig–An Irish Christmas.” Tickets at metrotix.com (3648 Washington Blvd., Grand Center). A very LUDO Christmas Dec. 10, The Pageant

MICKEY HART BAND Dec. 13, Old Rock House

The ex-Grateful Dead member brings his current percussion-focused band for a lively, globallyinfluenced show. Tickets at metrotix.com (1200 South 7th Blvd., LaSalle Park). MUSIC OF JOHN WILLIAMS Dec. 29-30, Powell Symphony Hall

The St. Louis Symphony honors John Williams, the well-known movie soundtrack composer, with a full concert of his best scores from movies like “Star Wars,” “Indiana Jones” and “Harry Potter.” Tickets at stlsymphony.org (718 N. Grand Blvd., Grand Center). UMPHREY’S MCGEE Dec. 29-31, The Pageant

Join the progressive jam band for one or more of 24 ALIVE STL DECEMBER 2011

its popular weekend shows. Tickets at ticketmaster. com (6161 Delmar Blvd., The Loop). PERFORMING ARTS THE ADVENTURES OF TOM SAWYER Through Dec. 23, The Repertory Theatre

Adapted from Mark Twain’s classic tale of childhood mischief, experience and trust, this play by Laura Eason will leave you craving an adventure of your own. Tickets at repstl.org (130 Edgar Rd., Webster Groves). A CHRISTMAS CAROL Dec. 1-4, The Fox

What would the holiday season be without Scrooge, the three spirits and Tiny Tim? Tickets at metrotix.com (527 N. Grand Blvd., Grand Center).

THE SANTALAND DIARIES Dec. 1-17, Tower Grove Abbey

Don’t miss this hilarious Christmas story about an unemployed man who becomes a Macy’s elf and questions the commercialized season. More info at straydogtheatre.com (2336 Tennessee Ave., Tower Grove). THE LAST NIGHT OF BALLYHOO Dec. 1-18, New Jewish Theatre

Check out this smart, comedic play about an upperclass German-Jewish family living in the South and dealing with its biases. More info at newjewishtheatre.org (2 Millstone Campus Dr., Creve Coeur). MY THREE ANGELS Dec. 2-18, Gaslight Theater

See the Gaslight crew's most recent play about three prisoners, a family of French colonists and the events alivemag.com

Photo by Laura Crosta.

Don’t miss the high-energy and theatrical St. Louis alt-band when they return to their hometown. Tickets at ticketmaster.com (6161 Delmar Blvd., The Loop).

stl now that transpire between them. More info at gaslighttheater.net (358 N. Boyle Ave., Central West End). THE LITTLE DANCER Dec. 9-11, COCA

Free

Hot Pick

key

Peat Wollaeger at Hoffman LaChance Contemporary Gallery

COCA’s Ballet Eclectica performs this fantasy tale of one of Degas’ famous statuettes that comes to life and dances about his works of art. Tickets at cocastl. org (524 Trinity Ave., University City). THE NUTCRACKER Dec. 16-23, Touhill Performing Arts Center

Lose yourself in the fantastical world of Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece, and be amazed by the St. Louis Ballet’s graceful prowess in “The Nutcracker.” Tickets at touhill.org (1 University Blvd., Florissant). DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Dec. 20-24, The Fox

One of The Fox’s most anticipated shows this season, Disney’s story of love between a beautiful woman and a selfish beast will enchant fans once again. Tickets at metrotix.com (527 N. Grand Blvd., Grand Center). VISUAL ARTS MONET’S WATER LILiES Through Jan. 22, St. Louis Art Museum

Witness the beauty of Giverny, France and its luscious water lilies, as interpreted by Impressionist master, Monet. More info at slam.org (1 Fine Arts Dr., Forest Park). PEAT WOLLAEGER Dec. 2-24, Hoffman LaChance Contemporary Gallery

Stencil graffiti artist Peat Wollaeger, also known by his street name, “stenSOUL,” will be devising some of his best graffiti art schemes both inside and outside the gallery. More info at hoffmanlachancefineart.com (2713 Sutton Blvd., Maplewood).

Stop by opening night of this fifth annual photography competition. More info at studioaltius.com (2301 S. Big Bend Blvd., Maplewood).

Wallace Smith, as his private collections go on display. More info at thesheldon.org/galleries (3648 Washington Blvd., Grand Center). SPECIAL EVENTS

TONY CONRAD Dec 3, White Flag Projects

DANIEL BLAKE SMITH DISCUSSION Dec. 7, Schlafly Branch Library

Conrad’s Harvard background in math and computer programming has continually made his underground art films an integral part of the non-Westernized film scene. More info at white-flag-projects.org (4568 Manchester Ave., The Grove).

Hear Smith discuss his new book, “An American Betrayal: Cherokee Patriots and the Trail of Tears.” More info at slpl.org (225 N. Euclid Ave., Central West End).

CLEAN UP BY SCREWED ARTS COLLECTIVE Dec. 10-23, Aisle 1 Gallery

Using eye-catching shapes, colors and images to spark conversation, these artists will be sure to get your brain ticking as they paint Aisle 1’s “virgin” walls. More info at aisle1gallery.com (2627 Cherokee St., Benton Park). WALLACE SMITH Dec. 16-Jan. 28, Sheldon Art Galleries

Marvel over the still-lifes, landscapes, portraits and other paintings by early 20th-century St. Louis artist 26 ALIVE STL DECEMBER 2011

ETSY HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE Dec. 8, Contemporary Art Museum

A group of local Etsy artists display and sell their handiwork. Expect drinks, music and a DIY craft station. More info at camstl.org (3750 Washington Blvd., Grand Center). UNDERSTANDING ABSTRACTION Dec. 8, St. Louis Art Museum

Join SLAM’s Assistant Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art, Tricia Paik, for this gallery talk on abstract art. More info at slam.org (1 Fine Arts Dr., Forest Park).

Conductor’s Brunch Dec. 11, University City Hall Rotunda

Join the University City Symphony Orchestra conductor, Leon Burke, for a special brunch prepared by Chef Vito Racanelli, featuring live music by a UCSO quartet and jazz ensemble. Tickets at UCSO. org (6801 Delmar Blvd., University City). CAM NIGHTS Dec. 15, Contemporary Art Museum

Make your way to the vibrant museum for one of the city’s best happy hour gatherings. More info at camstl.org (3750 Washington Blvd., Grand Center). CEDRIC THE ENTERTAINER Dec. 31, Peabody Opera House

Laugh yourself into 2012 as Cedric the Entertainer kicks off the NYE show with guest performers J. J. and Malik S. Tickets at ticketmaster.com (1400 Market St., Downtown). CAM NEW YEAR’S EVE Dec. 31, Contemporary Art Museum

Mark your calendars for CAM's New Year’s Eve Party to ring in the new year in style. More info at camstl.org (3750 Washington Blvd., Grand Center). alivemag.com

Photo by Angela Kelly.

SEEN 2011 Dec. 2-3, Studio Altius

SAINT LOUIS SCIENCE CENTER

BOLDLY GO EXPLORE

BOLDLYGOEXPLORE.ORG

stl now

Introducing Esther Ladue’s fresh, fashion-forward shopping destination, with a name you won’t soon forget. By Jill Manoff | Photo by Kylie Schweiss

> Newly situated across from Plaza Frontenac in the corner of the ever-hoppin’ Village at Schneithorst is a blessing from the fashion gods—otherwise known as Esther. The charming women’s boutique is the brainchild of Molly Brown and, whether it’s intentional or not, serves to fill the void left by a handful of recently-defunct retailers. Shoppers can reunite with lines including Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen’s uptown-downtown Elizabeth & James (once carried by Valerie Mills), easy-elegant Rachel Pally and youthful-chic Milly (both formerly at Susan Lynn’s). That’s not to say there’s nothing new. Sleek and modern Maggie Ward separates and flirty Hunter Dixon dresses are among the many fresh-to-the-market pieces that will keep fans of high-end contemporary styles coming back. Although some designer names— like Patterson J. Kincaid and Winter Kate—can also be found in the aforementioned, within-eyeshot mall, Brown’s buys are catered to the Esther girl, so the inventory is noticeably different and, to those who consider themselves “Esther-ettes,” it's decidedly elevated. In addition to well-stocked ready-to-wear numbers, the boutique boasts selections of covetable handbags (by the likes of House of Harlow), jewelry, lingerie and gifts—which can be browsed in the inviting, loft-like space seven days a week. 1556 S. Lindbergh Blvd., Ladue, 314.432.5300. Esther

New Beginnings With fresh ideas and new locales, these local dining spots are born again. The Parlour brings a whole new vibe to the South City bar scene, offering the atmosphere of an upscale Downtown lounge, but with South City prices. The menu features familiar neighborhood eats with a fresh touch— the toasted ravioli are made in-house daily, and the classic spinach artichoke dip comes wrapped in phyllo dough and drizzled with a balsamic glaze. At the bar, sample from a cocktail list crafted by General Manager Mike LaMartina, made entirely with Pearl Vodkas and fresh fruits. With extended happy hours, local artwork on the walls and DJs five nights a week, there are plenty of reasons to check out the new nightlife spot. More info at theparlourstl.com. Recently opened on the main strip of Maplewood, The Crow’s Nest is a second venture for Mike McLaughlin, owner of South City bar The Bleeding Deacon. The Crow’s Nest fills the space where The Red Lion abruptly closed its doors this summer, and is quickly positioning

28 ALIVE STL DECEMBER 2011

itself in the neighborhood as a “local bar with really good food,” as McLaughlin puts it. “It gives us the chance to expand what we do without threatening the vibe of The Deacon.” Indeed, The Crow’s Nest menu is chock-full of innovative, yet accessible comfort food, like fried frog legs (a customer favorite already), truffle frites, fish and chips and a house-made vegan burger. The bar is largely beercentered, with local brews like Schlafly, Urban Chestnut and Perennial on tap, but McLaughlin says a carefullycrafted cocktail menu is in the works as well. The well-loved Downtown burger joint Dooley’s, which closed its doors three years ago, has found new life as Dooley’s Beef N Brew Haus in Grand Center. Sean Dooley, son of the original owner, reopened the restaurant in late October. The kitchen offers grilled pub fare, including the world-famous Dooley Burger (the recipe untouched from the old days), as well as Irish fries, chicken sandwiches (with pineapple and Pappy’s barbecue sauce), beer-battered codfish and onion rings. The new location has much more space than the old; in addition to the main dining area, the lower level, dubbed Dooley’s Underground, has a full bar and can be booked for private parties. alivemag.com

A R M E N TACO L L E C T I O N . CO M

stl now

Hot Eats: Baileys’ Range Well-known restaurateur David Bailey’s latest theme: meaty burgers and boozy milkshakes. By Amy De La Hunt | Photos by jennifer silverberg

> The new Baileys’ Range Downtown makes a few nods to its sister restaurants. There’s a Nutella crepe (Rooster), chili-chocolate-tequila milkshake (The Chocolate Bar) and a selection of 30 local beers on tap (Bridge). Owner David Bailey is masterful at choosing a signature theme and creating a destination around it. This time, his inspiration comes from childhood memories of farm-raised beef and the home cooking it inspired. At Baileys’ Range, all of the beef is from Missouri and everything surrounding it is made from scratch—buns, ketchup, mustard, even the spice sprinkled over the fries. Sweets with a Kick Better still, all of the ice cream—18 flavors, plus seven sorbets—is house-made, too. You can eat them in a bowl, of course, but it’s oh-so-much tastier to slurp them through a straw in a float or shake, especially when alcohol is involved, as with the Sweet Sweet Bacon (bourbon, candied bacon and salted caramel ice cream shake), the Mojito (cachaça, mint leaves and lime sorbet shake) and the Chocolate Covered Raspberry (St. Louis Framboise and double chocolate ice cream float).

get the Ozark (local crimini mushrooms, onions and goat cheese) or On the Lamb (feta, cucumber, hummus and olive spread). Hard-core carnivores will go for the Basic or perhaps Dave’s Smoked Burger, but the adventurous will want to at least see whether cilantro aioli and peanut sauce work together on a fresh-ground chicken patty with cabbage and daikon slaw. (They do!) Home on the Range The restaurant’s home in the former City Gourmet grocery store is spacious almost to a fault—the servers have to hoof it to get from the kitchen to the upstairs tables, so unless you plan on tipping big, try not to send them running back for anything. On the other hand, the view of worker bees manning enormous stainless-steel mixers and turning out mountains of fresh bread and huge tubs of ketchup is inspiring.

Creativity points go to the soda pop list, organized by flavor and filled with niche bottlers you may not have heard of, including Ski, R-Pep, Virgil’s, Lucky Club and Sprecher. There’s even a handful of draft sodas (no Pepsi or Coke products).

The “Range” in the name appropriately implies wide-open spaces, but it’s also a fitting description of the vast number of choices in beer, burgers and ice cream.

Between the Buns Mini animal icons form a little farm on the burger menu, with cattle outnumbering pigs, chickens, lambs and bison—but you can choose your meat for a slight upcharge, so if veggie patties on glutenfree bread are your dietary preference, you can still

30 ALIVE STL DECEMBER 2011

where to go

Tempting as the ice cream is, the better pairing with Bailey’s burgers is beer. Drawn from 10 local microbreweries, the list is long and diverse, with quirky seasonal beers from newcomers 2nd Shift and Perennial Ales, plus classic favorites from the old guard, like Schlafly Pilsner. The idea of sampling so many local beers without driving all over the metro area seems to appeal to a big crosssection of the Downtown community.

Baileys’ Range 920 Olive St. Downtown 314.241.8121 Burgers: $7 to $12 Boozy floats and shakes: $9 Hours: Wed.-Sun., 11am-1am

{ Inside Dish }

best bets Tips for a top-notch experience at Baileys’ Range.

Best place to perch: In the balcony overlooking the giant kitchen Spirit award: The Classic float with organic root liqueur, Fitz’s root beer and vanilla ice cream

Sauciest topping: Wasabi catsup Can’t resist: Burger battle, in which two specialty burgers face off each week (like smoked duck with cassis barbecue sauce vs. Philly cheesesteak with jalapeños)

alivemag.com

7.623”

5”

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NOW OPEN

WWW.HAMBURGERMARYS.COM 3037 OLIVE STREET - ST. LOUIS, MO 63103

stl now

Job Envy Nobody can get you into the holiday spirit like Trina Bellavance—though you probably won’t realize she’s the reason you’re suddenly humming “Jingle Bell Rock” amidst the chaos of yet another shopping marathon. Walk into this visual manager’s festive hideaway, and you’re immediately transported into a merry mindset—which can be great for your Zen, but dangerous for your wallet. interview by jennifer dulin wiley | Photo by attilio D’agostino

Trina Bellavance, 38 Visual Manager, Anthropologie How She Got Into the Biz. I’ve always been interested in art, fashion and interior design, and I’ve always loved the aesthetic of Anthropologie. So, I started as a part-time sales associate with the company in the late ’90s, and worked my way up from there. Having explored other opportunities over the years, I was fortunate to return to the company when my husband and I relocated from Boston. Education/Training. I have a BA in Studio Art from the University of Vermont and an MFA in Fine Art from the School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. I’ve also worked in a decorative painting studio and an art gallery, decorated an entire office building, merchandised cutting-edge fashion and designed props for events. Best Work Day Ever. It’s not so much a day, but 10 days. The first time I participated in a new store opening for the company was the most intense, inspiring, collaborative thing I have ever done. Transforming the space from an empty shell into an awe-inspiring environment with a team of incredibly talented people was kind of magical. Why Her Job Rocks. I use my creativity every day. How many people can say that? I’m constantly surrounded by beautiful things, and I have the freedom to create environments that inspire others. Typical Day. I might start by placing new holiday party dresses, move on to tabletop merchandising and finish out the day prepping a display for installation. I set the floor plan and determine which furniture and 32 ALIVE STL DECEMBER 2011

fixtures are best for each concept, as well as place home and apparel products to create balance and harmony throughout. Proudest Moment. When James Taylor offered to buy a sweet little dog painting I made as a prop for one of our concepts. It was in a holiday display at our Chestnut Hill, MA, location. He came across it while shopping and fell in love with it. Role for the Holidays. Holiday prep is intense. We start with inspiration from our home of-

fice and then look at blogs, books, movies, magazines, galleries, junk shops, you name it. We think about our space, lighting and layout, and determine how things should live within the store. We spend a lot of time sourcing materials and experimenting with them before executing the concept. Best Job Perk. The amazing product (at a discount!), and the truly great people I meet. Goals for the Future. To push further and be more innovative. alivemag.com

stl now

Merry Meltdown The quest for perfection can wreck your sanity—and holiday spirit. By Lisa Bertrand | illustration by sarah quatrano

> I must confess that I used to dread the crazy, frantic and supposedly festive window of time between Thanksgiving and New Year’s—especially once I became a parent. There’s always the holiday cards to send, the extra food to bake, the additional social events to manage—not to mention braving the mall and waiting in store lines filled with people equally as worn out (and likely as crabby) as I am. As moms, many of us put a great deal of pressure on ourselves. We want to give our loved ones what we envision as the “perfect” holiday. But, we forget that “perfect” is not only overrated—it’s impossible. My story: Last year, Mother Nature gave me a gift I’ll always remember. It was the lesson to stop, breathe and reflect. I was able to ask myself, “What are we really giving our kids in this crazy quest for holiday perfection? What happens when we’re too wiped out and cranky from all the effort of ensuring flawlessness?” Here’s how it all began… ’Twas the day before Christmas, and the car was packed with a plethora of presents and overnight bags. My husband, son and I were ready to roll out of town to spend some quality time with extended family—until they called to cancel. The weather was supposed to get ugly, so for safety’s sake, we postponed. We had an entire day free—which, due to my husband’s hectic work schedule last year, was a rare treat. So, after three seconds of deliberation on how to spend the day, we trekked to Kopperman’s in the Central West End. My husband and I used to brunch at the deli regularly during our courtship and in the early years of our marriage. We would spend hours there, lingering over coffee and omelets, watching people (and their dogs) pass by. We were excited to share the experience with our son. From there, we decided to visit the Missouri History Museum in Forest Park. We were surprised to find the place practically empty and capitalized on the opportunity, exploring various sections of the museum, savoring each exhibit. Later that evening, as fat flakes of snow covered our lawn, we curled up to watch “A Christmas Story” next to a crackling fire. For dinner, we pulled out paper plates and feasted on ribs.

34 ALIVE STL DECEMBER 2011

It definitely wasn’t the traditional way of celebrating Christmas Eve. The china remained where it always is, tucked away in the cabinets. The everyday clutter of homework, bills and school forms littered the table. We were in desperate need of groceries. Dust bunnies, realizing it was safe to emerge from the nooks and crannies of the living room, seemed to gather around the tree. Tired, yet happy from our day, we were hopelessly unfit for company—and it was the best Christmas Eve we’ve ever had! There was no rushing around. Deadlines, math problems and business calls could wait. We completely unplugged; it was delicious. Here’s what I learned: The important thing is to toss the expectations aside and just be. Keep in mind, most kids won’t remember beautiful bows donning the gifts or a burnt bundt cake. But, they will remember how you made time to be with them and enjoy the season. Every family is different, so everyone’s ideal of what makes for an amazing holiday will vary, too. Whether it’s a family walk, volunteering for the day or watching movies together while popping popcorn, celebrate in your own way. The other night I overheard my son talking to his best friend about that last Christmas Eve. He said, “It was one of the best days of my life.” Now, that was perfect.

About the Writer ALIVE ParentPop blogger Lisa Bertrand discovered a passion for social media more than six years ago. In that time, she’s written for a host of local and national websites. Currently, she’s finishing a second novel. She lives in West County with her son, husband, puppy and a little old lady dog.

alivemag.com

stl now

Ludo

Ludo returns to St. Louis for an unforgettable holiday show. Interview by Gwen Ragno

> A few years ago, the garage rockers of Ludo were standing outside concerts at The Pageant handing out demo CDs. Now, they can easily pack the place at the drop of a Santa hat. In fact, this is the first year the STL-bred rockers had to book a second holiday gig in Chicago to reduce overflow at The Pageant. The band went national in 2008 with its major-label debut, “You’re Awful, I Love You,” but has never lost affection for its hometown. We caught up with lead singer Andrew Volpe and synth player Tim Convy to chat about the show, fan love and rocker success. ALIVE: What can we expect at A Very Ludo Christmas? Andrew volpe: It’s everything you can imagine about Christmas, good and bad, wrapped up in a little box…then it explodes in your face. ALIVE: Anything we should do to prepare ourselves? AV: Everyone should come to the show dressed up 36 ALIVE STL DECEMBER 2011

ALIVE: Do you get gifts from fans often? Av: Our fans are pretty rabid—if they like us, they like us a lot. So, we get a lot of art and other things thrown at us at shows. Tc: We do get a lot of art, which we appreciate, like Ludo portraits and drawings of songs. ALIVE: What was it like to get your start as a band here in St. Louis? Tc: We had absolutely no idea what we were doing when we started, so it was really more about getting out there and learning than trying to infiltrate ourselves into a scene. We grew up being inspired by a lot of great local bands like The Urge, MU330 and Stir…they inspired us to be a band. Av: We really didn’t get into other bands’ shows back then—our bread and butter was not being in the scene at all. It was standing outside venues handing out demos and begging people to come to our shows. ALIVE: How have your fans changed since then? Tc: Honestly, I really don’t feel like our fans have changed that much at all. Obviously now there are a lot more of them, but we still have a really close relationship, talking to them and hanging out after shows. It doesn’t feel too different. ALIVE: What was it like to hear yourselves on the

radio for the first time? Av: The first time I got really excited about hearing one of our songs on the radio was when we were driving into LA [for a show], listening to KROQ and heard “Love Me Dead” come on. Although we’d heard it on local stations and college radio before, here we were driving into a city knowing that untold thousands of people were hearing it at that very moment—whether they were loving it, or absolutely hating it and changing the channel. ALIVE: What are you working on now? Av: Right now, I’m writing a novel based on our EP “The Broken Bride.” ALIVE: Aren’t you due for a new record soon? Av: Our MO is that when it’s time to make a record, we all kind of look at each other and say, “Hey, let’s go make a record.” Tc: We do things when we’re inspired to do them, rather than being confined to deadlines. We feel like we do a better job that way. ALIVE: How do you keep the buzz going when it’s a while in between projects? Tc: We’re pretty engaged with our fans in general, so we’re never too far away. As long as there’s always something coming up, our fans are very loyal. We’re lucky. See them for yourselves at A Very Ludo Christmas Dec. 10 at The Pageant. Tickets and more info at ludorock.com. Follow Andrew’s progress on the “Broken Bride” novel at brokenbride.tumblr.com. alivemag.com

Photo courtesy of Ludo.

Home for the Holidays

in holiday attire. That means your most hideous Christmas sweaters, reindeer horns, Santa hats and elf costumes. Tim Convy: We should clarify that fans do not have to bring gifts for the band to the show. We actually give you gifts.

holiday

bash 9pm Friday, december 9

Mandarin lounge, 44 Maryland plaza Celebrate the season with us at aliVEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual holiday bash. Come early to enjoy drinks, stay late to dance with the most stylish partygoers in the city. arrive before 11pm and indulge in complimentary appetizers courtesy of The Fountain on locust RsVP Required. Please Email holidaybash@alivemag.com. Cocktail attire suggested.

stl now The Purple Cow

Skif

tag The Purple Cow

Think Outside the Gift Box Old is new this gift-giving season. By Kate Allen | Photos by lily liu

> It’s that time of year again, but before you march to the mall, consider shopping the city’s resale retailers that make holiday gift giving easy on the eyes, and the wallet. Independent shops across town are offering a wide variety of vintage, antique and handmade gifts guaranteed to please even the pickiest of people on your holiday shopping list. So, shop happy this season, knowing your one-ofa-kind gift beats anything from The Gap—and then some. Visions of vintage. Celebration aside, you can’t go wrong with a throwback this holiday season, and there’s no better place for vintage than the Delmar 38 ALIVE STL DECEMBER 2011

Loop. Stop by tag Timeless Authentic Garments for a wide variety of accessories for the good boys and girls on your holiday shopping list. Vintage cuff links and tees top the list for the men in your life, and women’s accessories, from handbags to belts, abound. “For someone who isn’t that comfortable with vintage, accessories are a great place to start; you can mix them into your everyday look and ease in slowly,” says tag owner Laney Stout. Remember that crazy family vacation in the late ’80s? Give your brother a nostalgic vintage tee to commemorate the occasion, or a retro St. Louis sports jersey for the fanatics in the family. Shopping for a pint-sized present? Vintage toys and classic superhero lunch boxes are a hit with the little ones, and are available at Retro 101/Cherry Bomb Vintage on Cherokee Street. The store also has a great selection of women’s apparel and vintage housewares to transport mom back to a bygone era. Antiques on Ice. Antique home décor makes the perfect housewarming or hostess gift this holiday season. The resurgence of antique and shabby-chic has hit the mainstream retailers in a major way, but why pay inflated prices for antique imitation when you can get the real deal for a steal? Your one-stop-shop for all things antique has to be Cherokee Antique Row on historic Cherokee Street. While shops like A Light Above, which focuses on antique chandeliers, have a very specific niche, the majority of shops offer a wide variety of antiques and collectibles. For the man’s man, check out Brent’s Antiques’ collection of firearms,

tag

knives and watches. The Purple Cow Antiques has a huge selection of Roy Rogers and Hopalong wallets, but it’s worth the trip just to check out the backyard garden, filled to the brim with antique hotel and gas station paraphernalia, complete with an airstream trailer. Off the beaten path, antique malls are known to contain their fair share of diamonds in the rough (check out South County and Eureka), and estate sales are always a great way to get some serious bang for your gift-giving buck. Homemade for the Holidays. If you’re in the market for a one-of-a-kind gift for that special someone, make your way to The White Rabbit on Manchester, where tons of local artisans showcase their handmade goods for adults and children alike. Leave that traditional “Baby’s First Christmas” gift to mom and grandma, and spring instead for a one-of-a-kind “What High School Are You Going to Go To?” onesie by Knollwood Lane. While you’re there, pick up some highly sought-after Diane Martin picture frames to showcase your holiday memories year round. If you’re searching for something a little more substantial, and sustainable, pop into Skif International on The Hill. Specializing in handmade knit sweaters, pants, dresses and winter accessories, the studio is always open to visitors. A full-service design lab, workshop and boutique, Skif (Sweaters Knitted in Freedom) is much more than a storefront—it’s a movement, making a Skif original the go-to gift for the do-gooders in your life. alivemag.com

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style

Knit Picking From thick, woven boots to hefty knit capes, this season’s sweater set has epic proportions. By Jill Manoff | Photos by Carmen Troesser

> Chubby is in, at least when talking knitwear—and so ends the feud between fashion’s influential designers and those fond of practicality. Undoubtedly warm, the season’s most-wanted sweaters are composed of wildly thick gauges, braided tight—instead of airy, open weaves, which fans of edge have typically turned out on the runway. The winning look is boxy—at times, challenging a puffer in heft. Though it “works,” it should by no means be reserved for casual denim days; designers showed wooly layers with everything from satin skinnies and chiffon maxis to evening gowns, proving that knits-for-night are perfectly acceptable—that is, if everything else is kept traditionally formal. In other words, like it or not, skinny stilettos are a must.

5 6

Soyer double-wrap scarf available at Esther, Ladue, 314.432.5300. 2 Dolce Vita poncho available at Klutch, Town & Country, 636.220.6110. 3 Heartloom “Jackie” sweater available at Esther, Ladue, 314.432.5300. 4 Wooden Ships snood available at Cha, Ladue, 314.993.8080. 5 Wooden Ships gloves available at Cha, Ladue, 314.993.8080. 6 Dr. Scholl’s “Jasper” boot available at drschollsshoes.com. 1

40 ALIVE STL DECEMBER 2011

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style

Suited to Perfection Carefully craft the perfect suit, and go anywhere in style. By Jill Manoff | photos by carmen troesser > Shopping a suit and its various coordinates can be overwhelming—unless you’re prepared. From what’s hot in shirts, ties, pants and lapels, we’ve mapped out everything you need to know to buy the perfect pieces. Take notes…because a suiting disaster can be as simple as an off-the-mark tie. 1 The Shoulders If the shoulder pads extend beyond your shoulders, it’s too big. The suit should hug your shoulders right off the rack; don’t count on a tailor to make it work.

The Lapel A notch lapel is standard, but a peak lapel makes more of a statement. Plus, it extends the shoulder line, so it’s flattering on everyone. 2

3 The Color If you plan on wearing it at least once a week, a suit that’s dark and classic is your best bet. 4 The Sleeves The length of your suit sleeve is perfect if it reveals ¼ inch of your shirt cuff. 5 The Vent You can’t go wrong with an always-in-style center vent. Side vents are also acceptable; they’re more European, and create clean lines. 6 The Buttons Today’s two-button suits are streamlined, modern and most popular. If you opt for a three-button style, choose a suit with a soft lapel and button only the middle button so the lapel rolls over the top. 7 The Shirt Stick to fitted shirts with well-defined cuffs, and avoid dramatic collars.

8 The Pocket Square Retro pocket squares are ideal for taking your look to the next level. Whether you work a casual plop or a basic rectangle is up to you. 9 The Tie Striped ties reference today’s Ivy League trend. Half-Windsor and FourIn-Hand knots are still suitable for all occasions, and complement a standard shirt collar. 10 The Cuff Links While not essential, cuff links contribute personality to a look. Match the metal with the tone of your belt buckle and wrist watch, and—if colorful—make sure the shade complements your tie, pocket square or dress shirt. 11 The Pants Slim, flat-front pants are trending, but not for every body type; if your suit has pleats, make sure they’re discreet. As for length, request a full break; pants should be hemmed to reach the top of the heel of a standard dress shoe, which will make for a nice break over the front of the shoe. 12 The Shoes The right boot can, and should, be worn with a suit. Pick a no-fuss pair in luxe leather, and with a clean toe.

Corneliani suit, Robert Talbott Carmel tie, cuff links and Hanauer pocket square available at Mister Guy, Ladue, 314.692.2003. Eton shirt, available at Woody’s, Frontenac, 314.569.3272. Hugo Boss boots available at Moris Fashions, Central west end, 314.361.6800. 42 ALIVE STL DECEMBER 2011

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style

So Clutch This season, get your hands on a statement minaudiere. By Jill Manoff | photos by carmen troesser > While you could be quick to peg many of winter’s top trends as “impractical,” you should first consider your reasons. Sure, the statement day-to-night clutch—available in a plethora of prints, bold colors and buttery-soft leathers—will tie up a hand, but so does your cell phone, which you’ve been known to tote 24/7. So get a grip, and plan to hold your choice of the season’s must-have handbag through spring, knowing that—if worst comes to worst—you can safely tuck it under your arm…or between your knees when keying in that all-important text.

[Top to bottom] HOBO clutch available at Sole, The Loop, 314.863.3600. Big Buddha clutch available at Ivy Hill, Central West End, 314.367.7004. House of Harlow clutch available at Esther, Ladue, 314.432.5300.

44 ALIVE STL DECEMBER 2011

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7821 BIG BEND BLVD. WEBSTER GROVES, MO 63119 314-962-1400 SUMMITJEWELERSSTL.COM

212–A Paul Mitchell Focus Salon 212 offers the full Paul Mitchell experience complete with Color Bar, Wash House and concierge. The salon provides all the essential hair, makeup and nail services, but also specializes in keratin smoothing systems, hair extensions, locks and twisting, MINX and Shellac nails and detailed brow shaping. 511 N. Garrison • 314.534.4247 212Salon.net

ILLUSIONS COLOR SPA Illusions Color Spa is a full service salon and spa, specializing in dimensional color, hair and eyelash extensions and creating “New Illusions.” The only salon in St. Louis to be named to "Elle" Magazine's Top 100 Salons in America. Named in "Salon Today Magazine’s" Top 200 nine times. 4579 Chestnut Park Plz. 314.845.0118 Illusionscolorspa.com

The Haughty Bride Salon Is it hot in here, or is it just the bride? With The Haughty Bride Salon, he’ll be sayin “I do!” An elite, private bridal experience, The Haughty Bride Salon specializes in airbrush make-up, special event hairstyling, and custom accessories. 314.757.9215 Thehaughtybride.com

Airbrush Spray Tans Gift Certificates

BLUE ELEMENT SALON

Robert Govero for HAIR

Located in Clayton, Blue Element Salon offers hair design, manicure, pedicure and waxing services for a multi-cultural clientele. Relax in a warm and friendly environment while feeling your very best.

Robert Govero for HAIR is an independently owned and operated, cutting-edge salon in downtown Clayton, offering services for men, women, kids, bridal and/or special events, including manicure/pedicure. We indulge guests from anywhere in metro STL region.

Owner Tracy has 5+ years experience using three different colors to customize your tan. For only $35, look good without the odor or orange. High detail, full service. All natural, lasts 7-10 days. Appointments available Tues.-Sat. See her on TV on KSDK Channel 5 and at saloneuforia.com.

8111 Maryland Ave. • 314.725.6179 robertgoveroforhair.com

11722 MANCHESTER RD. 314.965.8268 SALONEUFORIA.COM

7529 Forsyth Blvd. 314.725.1200 BlueElementSalon.com

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SALON EUFORIA

Best Beauty Products Three top picks for looking and feeling beautiful this season.

1. Shea Luxe Creme, KIND Soap Company, 43 South Old Orchard, kindsoap.com 2. ORIBE Après Beach Wave and Shine Spray, Illusions Color Spa named to Elle Magazine’s Top 100 Salons, 4579 Chestnut Park Plaza, illusionscolorspa.com 3. Crabtree & Evelyn® La Source® Hand Therapy, Cassie’s Fragrance and Scent Bar, 316 N. Euclid, cassiesscents.com ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION

home

’Tis the Table Top tips and tricks for decorating the perfect holiday table. By jennifer wells | Photos by jennifer silverberg

> The quintessential holiday party at home isn’t complete without a standout yuletide table. But, that doesn’t mean your décor should be dripping in traditional red and green. We turned to the experts at Cosmopolitan Events to show us how it’s really done. Armed with a team of talent and one top-notch Rebel Florist, Cosmo’s Chasley Bradbury demonstrates how to set a breathtaking dining scene that can take you through the holidays and beyond—adding some much-needed shelf life to traditional yuletide décor. Visions of a snowy walk in the woods serve as the primary inspiration for this modern and festive table, while subtle seasonal elements charmingly play back-up. To get the look of this Woodland Winter theme at home, take a cue from the experts and call on a bevy of natural elements for inspiration—some rustic, and others that are far from it.

Posh Placement Choosing place settings first will help set the tone of your holiday soiree. These steel-colored placemats offer the perfect backdrop to the whimsical, leafy chargers. A taupe napkin is a neutral middleman for the two seemingly opposite colors. BBJ Linen, 314.447.9200. Natural Beauty Take a nod from nature and mix winter whites with woodsy browns for an understated Woodland Winter theme. Crisp white takes on a warm and cozy feel when paired with varying shades of chocolate. Search your own backyard for tableworthy clippings or pine cones. Flower Power A monochromatic palette of all-white flowers is very French and very chic. Multiple arrangements make for a dramatic presentation. Fleurish, The Rebel Florist, 314.226.4842. Let it Snow Wow your guests with a “snowy” table. Shaved

Styrofoam, available at many craft stores, does the trick. Keep most of it contained by using a clear, shallow container purchased from your local florist, but allow a little spill-over for disguise. Glow for It Now that you have your “snow,” bring it to life! Hide a few strategically placed LED Instalytes for an inexpensive way to illuminate your dining space. Dim the lights for extra impact. It’s in the Cards Elegant menu cards give guests a sneak peek of what’s to come. When designing stationery, choose art and text that complement your theme. M. Haley Design, 636.352.2102. Fire and Ice Add a frosted effect to clear vases by filling them with ice. For maximum contrast, place the frosted vases near lit candles for a “fire and ice” feel. Using mirrored votives adds a reflective element that also mimics a natural, icy look.

Have a Ball Decorative balls come in an endless variety of shapes and sizes to complement almost any décor. The experts at Cosmopolitan Events chose balls made of twig to further enhance the Woodland Winter theme. Fleurish, The Rebel Florist, 314.226.4842. Favorite Favor Handmade truffles playfully dotted with pearls give new meaning to the word “tasteful.” And, simple organic packaging is a sweet way to bring a little “green” to your holiday table. Oh Sheila! Chocolates, 314.681.8803. Room for More Glasses and flatware and chairs…oh my! If you find yourself with more guests than you can accommodate, consider consulting a reputable party rental store—or rely on the expertise of a top-notch event company to help you pull off your party. Premier Rentals, 314.785.1100; Cosmopolitan Events, 314.249.9107.

Woodland Winter table shot at Palladium Saint Louis, 314.799.8886. Designed and concepted by Cosmopolitan Events, 314.249.9107, with the help of Fleurish, The Rebel Florist, Brian Blasingame, 314.226.4842.

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DECEMBER 2011 ALIVE STL 49

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Have Yourself A Merry Little Cocktail Festive takes on three classic yuletide spirits. By matt sorrell | Photo by jennifer silverberg

> Forget the typical beer and Plentiful Party wine—a holiday party requires Wassail Punch Ingredients: 6 large Fuji a little more merriment. And, or Honeycrisp apples, nothing works to bring folks cored and cut into large together like a little festive wedges; ½ cup brown sugar; 1 cup water; 750 tippling. These yuletide ml rye whiskey; 375 ml recipes are sure to be a hit at sweet madeira wine; your holiday party—no matter 375 ml apple jack; 1 liter apple cider; 1 cup maple what the size. So, take a sip, syrup; 10 whole cloves; and get into the holiday spirit. 10 whole allspice berries; 2 cinnamon sticks; 2 star anise pods; 1 tsp ground ginger; 1 tsp ground nutmeg; 6 whole eggs, separated Preheat oven to 350°F. In large baking dish, add apples, brown sugar and water. Stir to combine. Bake apple mixture for 30 to 45 minutes, until apples are tender. Put remaining ingredients, except eggs, in a large stock pot or slow cooker

50 ALIVE STL DECEMBER JUNE 2011 2011

at medium heat. Bring to just below a boil, then drop to low heat to keep warm. Do not boil ingredients. Put egg whites in a medium bowl and beat with hand mixer, about 5 minutes. Put the egg yolks in separate bowl and whip until light in color and frothy. Combine whites and yolks slowly with mixer on low speed. While mixing, ladle in 6 oz of hot alcohol mixture, slowly to prevent eggs from curdling. Pour egg mixture back into pot and whisk to combine. Add apple mixture to punch, stir and serve warm in your best punch bowl.

MidSized Merrymaking Mulled Wine Ingredients: 750 ml red wine; 8 oz Diet Coke; ⅟3 cup brandy; ⅟3 cup water; 6 to 8 cinnamon sticks; 1 tsp grated nutmeg; 1 cup sugar; palm full of cloves; pinch of black peppercorns; zest of 1 lemon; zest of 1 orange

Makes approximately 20 5-oz servings; multiply recipe as needed.

Combine all ingredients in a large saucepan. Put on low heat and let simmer for 20 minutes. Strain spices through cheesecloth or chinois. Let cool slightly, and serve warm in a petite wine glass or mug. Serves six to eight. Note: The best wines to use are pinot noirs, sirahs, shiraz and malbecs.

Recipe by Justin Cardwell, BC’s Kitchen.

Recipe by Joel Clark, Sanctuaria.

Intimate Gathering Egg Nog Ingredients: 2 oz buttermilk; 2 oz cognac; ½ oz Marie Brizard Apry; 1 oz hazelnut simple syrup*; ¼ oz creme de casis; 1 farm-fresh egg Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker and dry shake for 10 seconds. Add ice and hard shake for 20 seconds. Serve in a hearty mug and garnish with grated nutmeg. Serves two. * For the hazelnut syrup: Toast ¼ cup of hazelnuts in the oven, then place in a food processor on pulse until fine. Put 1 cup of water and 2 cups of sugar in a sauce pan and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat and stir in hazelnut mixture. Recipe by Lucas Ramsey and Chris Bork, Blood & Sand.

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Create the look you deser ve

Breast Enhancement Augmentation Lift Laser Bra Breast Implantation Revision See our full range of services at westcountyplasticsurgeons.wustl.edu Marissa Tenenbaum, MD and Terry Myckatyn, MD

314.996.8800

1040 N. Mason Road, Suite 124, St. Louis, MO 63141

self

Beat the Holiday Bloat Before you partake in the merriment of the season, fill your stocking with these simple solutions to stay healthy and happy for the holidays. By Cristy Miller

> ’Tis the season for merry feasts, foodladen festivities and...forgetting your fitness and diet plans. But, outsmarting these yuletide temptations is easy if you take a proactive approach—starting now. From easy exercise strategies to keeping calories under control, ALIVE enlisted the help of area experts for their top tips to beating the holiday bulge. Sip smart. Our brains often confuse thirst for hunger, says Tim Detmer, Certified Personal Trainer and owner of Finish It Fitness (finishitfitness.com), so make sure you drink plenty of water before a holiday feast. Plus, water aids digestion; stay hydrated by drinking before, during and after your meal. 52 ALIVE STL DECEMBER 2011

Survey the scene. Jennifer McDaniel, LD, MS, RD, CSSD and nutrition consultant (mcdanielnutrition.com), recommends scoping out the food options before filling your plate. Determine which foods you like best and choose only those dishes…within reason. Many times, people fill up on bread or rolls at the start of a meal, only to find the dessert is what they really wanted. Pass the protein. Eating a small proteinpacked snack, like unsalted almonds, before a big meal can help you eat less. Eating protein helps stabilize blood sugar and ward off cravings. The protein-induced “full” feeling will come in handy when mom brings out the pumpkin pie and cake for dessert. Chill out. You can experience many stressors during the holidays—from family drama to monetary expenses and a busy schedule—so it’s important to find food-free outlets to cope. Keeping your emotions in check can cure the need to indulge, advises Julie Walther-Scheibel, a fitness instructor and mental health therapist (jwscounseling.com). Don’t ditch exercise. Keeping a regular workout schedule has a huge impact on your mind and body, as well as your metabolism. Use your gym time wisely by trying a new routine or workout, so you don’t dread heading to the gym. Try an interval cardio workout, with short blasts of intense speed and recovery, to give yourself a burst of energy. Avoid the “all or nothing” pitfall. Most of us give up on our holiday diet once we indulge just a little. It’s easy to think, “I’ve already

had two pieces of pie, I might as well eat what I want the rest of the weekend.” Avoid this “all or nothing” philosophy. Even if you overeat one night, the whole weekend doesn’t have to be a diet bust. You can still wake up the next morning, take a walk, eat a healthy breakfast, and get right back on track. Enlist a partner in crime. Accountability is huge when it comes to staying on your diet. Lean on friends, co-workers or family members and let them know your healthy eating plan. That way, if they see you heading for the dessert table in a moment of weakness, they can stage an intervention. Pick your place wisely. Research shows that when we eat socially, we mimic the speed that our tablemates eat. So, be strategic and sit next to your slow-eating friends. Also, the larger the group we eat with, the more we will eat. It’s not a reason to fly solo, but it is a reminder to be mindful of the temptation. Eat your calories. All too often, we start off with wine, eggnog or other cocktails at holiday parties and end up consuming anywhere from 300 to 600 calories before we even sit down to eat. These yuletide spirits might taste great, but they fail to fill us up or provide any real nutrition. Our experts recommend choosing diet and sugar-free drinks when possible. If alcohol is a must, do so in moderation, and opt for lower calorie choices such as red wine or light beer, versus eggnog or margaritas. Be Merry! The mind can do amazing things, so don’t tell yourself you’re going to fail before you even step into your first holiday party. Commit to putting a positive foot forward and enjoy the season. alivemag.com

IN THE CENTRAL WEST END

Q Boutique

CHI SUSHI This trendy sushi bar serves up some of the best nigiri and sushi rolls in the city, now with even more sushi on the menu. Watch the chefs whip up rolls in the open kitchen, including their signature Chi Roll, with salmon, shrimp and kiwi, or the Lemon Drop, a customer favorite. Check out the brand new happy hour from 4-7pm Mon.-Sat. 4 N. Euclid Ave. 314.367.2209 ChiBarStl.com

Cassie’s Fragrance and Scent Bar Cassie’s is a fragrance boutique and scent bar that also carries a wide variety of high-quality gift items, including Crabtree & Evelyn, Lampe Berger, Thymes, Crislu and more. We have something for everyone, and we are delighted to help you! 316 N. Euclid 314.454.1010 cassiesscents.com

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At The World Chess Hall of Fame

Q Boutique, the newest shopping destination in the CWE, has gifts for everyone on your list! Peruse vintage jewelry, home décor, children’s games, unique gifts and more! CHECK it out! 4652 Maryland Ave. 314.367.9243 qboutiquestl.com

LEFT BANK BOOKS Left Bank Books is St. Louis’ oldest full-service, locallyowned bookstore with a full line of new, used and e-books, great children’s books, gifts, cards and calendars. Free gift-wrapping, shipping to anywhere. Shop our website, too. 399 N. Euclid 314.367.6731 left-bank.com

weddings

Recently Ringed Three St. Louis couples share their engagement stories.

How We Met Ed and I first met when we sat at the same table for a wedding reception at St. Francis Xavier’s Ballroom during the summer of 2006. We didn’t begin dating until May 2008, when we reconnected on the dance floor at my cousin’s wedding reception—my cousin sensed the attraction and insisted that we dance together! Since then, we have had an amazing (though sometimes challenging) three years together. Ed, a staff sergeant in the US Army, was deployed to Afghanistan in September 2010. Although it was difficult for us to be apart, nothing compares to the moment a year later when I saw him in the airport as he returned home!

How We Met Chelcy and I first met during our sophomore year at Timberland High School. We became best friends and started dating April 27, 2008, when we were both 18. Our relationship grew quickly over the summer, and we spent most of our days together, including trips to Colorado and Puerto Rico with my family. At the end of that summer, our relationship was tested for the first time when Chelcy went to Southeast Missouri State for college, and I attended Maryville University.

The Proposal We tried a lot of new restaurants while Ed was home (for only five weeks), so I thought nothing of it when he took me out for dinner at Monarch in Maplewood. He talked a lot about our future together during the meal, which I thought was the wine speaking—I had no idea he was setting me up for big plans for later in the evening. After the meal, Ed said we were meeting a friend for drinks near Saint Louis University’s campus. As we drove there, I started pointing out places we could go that evening, but Ed seemed distracted. He parked, and we started walking around on Grand Blvd. until we reached St. Francis Xavier College Church. Ed stopped, turned around and got down on one knee. He placed a gorgeous ring, which he picked out himself at Walters Jewelry, on my finger. I was so surprised and happy that I started to cry, and then said “yes!”

The Proposal Our last year away from each other was quickly approaching. Before Chelcy left for her final year of college, I told her that I wanted to take her out one last time. We started the day by walking around the Delmar Loop eating Fro-Yo, and later, we headed Downtown. I had arranged for a romantic horse-drawn carriage to take us to our next location: a riverboat dinner cruise in front of the Arch, complete with a live band. After eating, we went out onto the front deck of the boat to enjoy the view and take pictures. As we approached the Arch, I whispered into her ear, “I have a question for you.” She started laughing and jokingly said, “Shut up!” Then, she turned around and saw me down on one knee holding a princess-cut solitaire diamond ring. I asked her to marry me, and she immediately said “yes!”

The Big Day October 6, 2012 at St. Francis Xavier College Church, reception at Lumen Private Event Space.

The Big Day July 28, 2012 at First United Methodist Church in St. Charles, reception at Heart of St. Charles.

Katie Heineman, 29 & Chad Overbey, 30 How We Met Chad is a bartender at Felix’s Pizza Pub in Dogtown. I happen to live in the neighborhood, so would stop by now and then for a delicious beverage or two. When I first met Chad, I was dating someone else, but thought Chad was a funny, sweet guy—he was definitely my favorite bartender! One day, I made plans to meet one of my friends at Felix’s for happy hour, and Chad happened to be working. He noticed that I was with a girlfriend this time, not my boyfriend, and asked if I was still dating him. I was not. When my friend and I were leaving Felix’s, Chad asked me for my phone number, which I discretely left on the back of my receipt. He called that weekend to ask me out, and the rest is history! The Proposal This past July, Chad and I took a summer vacation in Cape Cod. One day, we took a ferry out to the islands of Martha’s Vineyard and spent the day exploring and walking around together. The day was coming to an end, but we still had a few hours until the ferry came to take us back to the mainland, so we decided to relax for a while at a cute little bar near the port. We had a few drinks and were chatting with some locals, when all of a sudden Chad dropped down to one knee and anxiously said to me, “I was trying to find a lighthouse all day to do this at, but this will work, too. Katie Heineman, will you marry me?” He completely surprised me, and I immediately started to cry. I think I said “yes,” but to this day, he insists that I never officially responded. It was a moment we will never forget. The Big Day September 15, 2012, reception at Windows on Washington.

> Recently ringed? Email your story to jennifer@alivemag.com, and your engagement moment could be featured in ALIVE! 54 ALIVE STL DECEMBER 2011

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Edited by Melissa Grubbs; photos courtesy of the couples.

Nicole Buschmann, 26 Chelcy Liliensiek, 21 & & Edward Russo, 29 Micah Canaday, 21

IT’S TIME TO RAISE THE BAR!

efining Exercise

GET FIT THIS HOLIDAY SEASON Team up with one of our best to stay fit this holiday season, or take it to the next level for a complete body transformation! JAMIE MUSHLIN Owner of Red Fitness Lounge, 24 years as a professional personal trainer, specializing in weight loss, motivation and extreme body transformations. MONICA ADAMS 15 years as a certified group instructor and professional fitness trainer, specializing in extreme body transformations. Radio host of her own fitness show and TV personality. BRIAN SHAW 5 years strong as a professional trainer and fitness motivator.

139 Carondelet Plaza • St. Louis, MO 63105 • 314.497.8838 • Foreverfit6776@sbcglobal.net

GREGORY’S CREATIVE CUISINE The best vendor for your corporate, social, wedding and holiday catering.

check us out today!

Holiday Menus At: www.gregoryscreativecuisine.com Contact Chef Gregory at (314) 481.4481 or gmchef@yahoo.com.

weddings

Companions for Life A casual breakfast at Companion Bakery unites lovers for life. By Kate Allen | Photos by Angela Brewer and Brian Schmittgens of Todd Studios Photography

The C ouple M

eghan 32, Co Brown, Comm rporate un Sigm ications at Keith M a-Aldrich & y Plannin ers, 34, Med ia g Man ag Anheu ser-Bu er at sch > When St. Louis natives Meghan Brown and Keith Myers met for a casual breakfast at Companion in 2009, they had no idea they’d be embarking on forever. Throughout their courtship, Keith was a perfect gentleman; Meghan wasn’t accustomed to having car doors opened for her or a jacket around her shoulders to keep her warm, but it was definitely something she could get used to. Chivalry was a plus, but it was one specific sacrifice Keith made for her that really sealed the deal. Even though flying is his least favorite thing to do, Keith boarded a four-hour flight to California to meet Meghan’s best friend. Needless to say, she wasn’t the only one he won over on that trip. Just over a year later, the happy couple was enjoying the opening night of “Hamlet” at the Forest Park Shakespeare Festival. It was admittedly a pretty solemn night at the theater considering the excitement that was to follow. As the couple made their way back through the parking lot, Meghan paused at the top of Art Hill and thought about what a beautiful spot it would be for a proposal. As if on cue, Keith dropped to one knee and gave her the performance of a lifetime. After shouting, “Are you for real?” about a half dozen times, an over-the-moon Meghan accepted. Following the big question, the couple stopped a few passersby for a photo, and then 56 ALIVE STL DECEMBER 2011

made their way to Meghan’s mother’s house for an impromptu celebration. Musical Matrimony The couple’s musical interests played a huge role in their relationship, as well as their “I Do” moment. Keith, a music buff, helped sculpt Meghan’s musical tastes, treating her to numerous concerts and exposing her to new genres—which explains the announcement of their nuptials on a record-shaped Save the Date. They also surprised guests by exiting the Faith Des Peres Presbyterian Church to the The Beatles’ classic, “Here Comes the Sun,” played by the Rosewood Ensemble string quartet. The music thumped well into the night as Boogiechyld rocked the Coronado reception with wedding favorites and slowed it down for the couple’s first dance to “Swept Away” by the Avett Brothers. Surreal Deal Meghan was a down-to-earth bride. She found her dress sans stress—a La Sposa gown, accented by a gorgeous belt, headpiece and veil, which served as her “something new” for the day. But, she also came complete with things “old” and “borrowed.” She proudly wore a ring, containing her grandmother’s engagement stone, as well as a garter adorned with her sorority badge, bor-

rowed from her day-of coordinator. As she stood in the back of the church preparing to walk down the aisle, she experienced her favorite moment of the day: She realized that the moment she had waited for her whole life was here. So, she wiped the tears from her eyes, and walked down the aisle toward her loving groom. Toast with the Most With sizable families and a large bridal party, Meghan and Keith had no shortage of heartwarming toasts on their big day. After receiving gorgeous Vera Wang toasting flutes from Meghan’s aunt, as well as a traditional hand-etched pair from Keith’s uncle, the couple found themselves raising their glasses on multiple occasions throughout their three-course dinner service. Midnight Snack The staff at the Coronado Ballroom outdid themselves with passed hors d’oeuvres, a bountiful plated dinner and plenty of cocktails. Later in the evening, Keith and Meghan kept the party going strong with a late-night pretzel station. In addition to the main attraction of warm pretzel sticks, the buffet was well-stocked with cheese sauce, honey mustard and chocolate fondue for dipping—a sweet and fulfilling end to an unforgettable evening. alivemag.com

Bride A N N UA L B RIDAL ISSUE AND EVENT THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2012, 6–9PM LU M E N P RIVATE EVENT SPACE

Save the date for ALIVE BrIdE, St. Louis’ premier bridal event and fashion show, featuring the top wedding vendors in town and showcasing the most beautiful bridal gown styles of 2012.

ATTENTIoN BRIDAL VENDoRS: Be a part of ALIVE’s premier bridal show and reach over 500 stylish and influential brides. Email Advertising@alivemag.com or call 314.446.4059 to reserve your spot in ALIVE’s bridal show.

community

St. Louis Christmas Carols Association

Spread holiday cheer with the traditions you love most. By Mary Kate Murray

> We all have our fair share of holiday traditions that make the season special. This year, why not help those in need while enjoying the festive activities you love most? Project ARK, Gateway Homeless Services and the St. Louis Christmas Carols Association are just three of several charitable organizations you can join in bringing cheer to the lives of underprivileged St. Louisans. Here’s how to get started. Play Santa This season, as you spend day after day shopping for the perfect gifts, keep in mind the thousands of St. Louis children who won’t receive any presents during the holidays. Then, join Project ARK, a local organization that helps families affected by HIV/ AIDS, in its quest to provide presents to the children of these families during the holidays. You can donate toys or money to the organization’s citywide

58 ALIVE STL DECEMBER 2011

> Visit projectark.wustl.edu/toydrive for more info. Bake for Good For many, the holidays wouldn’t be complete without adorning baked goodies with festive decorations. If you’re passionate about giving back—and have a sweet tooth you can’t ignore—join Gateway Homeless Services in its popular cookie-decorating parties as part of the organization's 12 Days of Hope for Homeless Families initiative. Taking place in the weeks leading up to Christmas, the program was designed to alleviate the stress of homelessness during the holiday season. Gateway is the largest shelter for women and children in Missouri, so this party will be one for the books. Simply bring cookies and decorating supplies and have a blast decorating treats with the kids at the shelter. “Anything we can do to help ease the burden of homelessness for the kids we serve is a plus,” says Jenn Gauthier-Lyke, Gateway’s Resource Development Director. “We

want to help the kids feel loved and special.” Seeing these kids’ faces light up as they enjoy the festive cookies is sure to brighten your day.

> Visit gateway180.org/volunteer/12-days-ofhope to volunteer and get more info.

Carol for a Cause Caroling is a quintessential holiday pastime. This year, consider teaming up with the St. Louis Christmas Carols Association to spread holiday cheer while supporting a good cause. First, recruit friends and family to join your caroling posse. Then, contact SLCCA to register your group, and you’re good to go. Throughout November and December, carolers sing for donations and send that money back to SLCCA, which in turn, donates it to 41 St. Louis metro area children’s agencies, including Girls, Inc. of St. Louis, the American Youth Foundation, Every Child’s Hope and more. Last year, more than 400 caroling groups raised money for SLCCA—most of them were families caroling around their own neighborhoods. Executive Director Joan Koontz is enthusiastic about SLCCA, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. “There is no other organization like this in the country,” she says. “Christmas caroling is a nice thing for families to do; it brings together all generations, and it makes the best family memories.” If you’re nervous about singing in front of a crowd, Koontz is quick to calm your fears. “You don’t have to be a fabulous singer. The most important part is that it’s coming from your heart.”

> Visit stlchristmascarols.org to volunteer and get more info.

alivemag.com

Photo courtesy of the St. Louis Christmas Carols Association.

Get Involved: Making Spirits Bright

Holiday Gold for Kids Toy Drive, which collects gifts for children from newborns up to age 14. Last year, more than 1,100 kids received gifts from the toy drive. “The gifts provided through this program are typically the only toys these children receive during the holiday season,” says the toy drive’s coordinator, Stacey Slovacek. “It makes a world of difference in providing hope and happiness during the holidays.” Those who’d like to make an even bigger impact can host a “Party with Purpose” and have friends bring toys to donate. When the party’s over, bring those toys to Project ARK and feel good knowing you’ve just made a child’s holiday wish come true.

St. Louis Christmas Carols Association

community

Social Scene: Carousel Gala October 15 ∑ Supporters of St. Louis Children’s Hospital gathered at the Fox Theatre for the annual Carousel Gala, raising over $430,000 to benefit Healthy Kids Express, a pediatric mobile health program that provides preventive health care and education to nearly 20,000 children outside the hospital’s walls every year. Guests at this blacktie gala enjoyed cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and a gourmet dinner, as well as auctions and dancing to live music by Galaxy Red. Major sponsors for the event included Ameren Corporation, Waterhout Construction and Centric Group. Photos by Emma Birge-Osborne/ALIVE Scene Team. For more photos, log onto alivemag.com/photos.

1 Back row: Corinne Qureshi, Renee Bell, Denise Miller, Libby Donnell, Susan Krawl & Susie Sivewright; Front Row: Glenda Seldin, Kathy Pope, Lisa Holley, Becky Wood & Suzanne Boyle 2 Ann and Russell Perry 3 Dr. Michael and Debbie Polinsky & Mindy and Brian Pultman 4 Virginia Hool, Alden Pflager & Beth Condie

Social Scene: Key to the Cure Kickoff October 19 ∑ Fashionable philanthropists gathered at Saks Fifth Avenue for a special evening kicking off the annual Key to the Cure charity shopping weekend. The store closed to the public for the evening, entertaining guests with dueling pianos, makeovers and skin consultations by Dior, hair braiding and manicures from the Salon & Spa at Saks and even a fortune teller. Guests sipped complimentary pink cocktails by 901 Tequila and Stoli Vodka, Bud Select beer and wine from Chandler Hill Winery, and enjoyed passed appetizers from Brio, Winslow’s Home, Fleming’s, Billy Goat Chips, Serendipity Homemade Ice Cream and other fine local eateries. Those in the VIP “Sky Lounge” also received an invitation to test drive a Lexus for the weekend. Photos courtesy of King Tungsten, kingtungsten.com.

1 1 Michael Hill Kennedy II & Megan Bedelia Burns 2 Behija Vehab & Alison Silvagnoli Hampton 60 ALIVE STL DECEMBER 2011

2 alivemag.com

DOWNTOWN, ST. LOUIS Celebrate the season in Downtown St. Louis!

PLAY Go To Town With over 200 restaurants, attractions, shops, amenities and exciting events every day, Downtown is the perfect destination for your holiday fun!

One gift buys it all. The Downtown Gift Card

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Connected!

downtownstlouis

downtownstl

downtownstl.org

community

Social Scene: St. Luke’s Hospital Spirit Girls’ Night Out October 20 ∑ Spirited women came together at the DoubleTree Hotel for St. Luke’s Spirit of Women Girls’ Night Out to celebrate women’s health. Guests discovered their “purse-onalities” with friends as they pampered themselves with massages and mini-makeovers, posed for photos with Creve Coeur Camera and learned “Five Things in Your Purse That Will Change Your Life.” Ladies also enjoyed cocktails, appetizers and desserts as they entered for chances to win a Dooney & Bourke handbag, a Michael Kors tote, round-trip airfare to Cancun and many more prizes. Photos by Emma Birge-Osborne/ALIVE Scene Team. For more photos, log onto alivemag.com/photos.

5 62 ALIVE STL DECEMBER 2011

1 Danielle O’Toole, Lisa Redden, Lynn Owen & Lori O’Toole 2 Tanya Abreu 3 Karen Gaus, Doris Dooley & Paula Pressly 4 Amy Schmerold & Ann Henderson 5 Sue Huseman, Sue Page, Nancy Exler & Julie Smith alivemag.com

GIFT GUIDE

MEKA BOUTIQUE Meka Boutique has a great selection of Old Gringo Boots. Each pair is an artisan handcrafted boot. Old Gringo boots not only look amazing on, but, they feel just as amazing. Every lady needs a pair of Old Gringos to add a little country flair to her wardrobe! Stop by Meka to see a large selection and great styles to match!

SHOPPING TIPS:

1. Don’t procrastinate. 2. Ask for wish lists. 3. Make a budget, and stick to it.

1634 Clarkson Rd. 636.536.6300 “Like” us on Facebook!

4. Make a list, and check it twice.

Q Boutique

At The World Chess Hall of Fame Q Boutique, the newest shopping destination in the CWE, has gifts for everyone on your list! Peruse vintage jewelry, home décor, children’s games, unique gifts and more! CHECK it out! Featured here: A & B Home Sleek Black Lamp w/ Silver Base, $275; Trina Turk Palm Springs Block Pillow, $99. 4652 Maryland Ave. 314.367.9243 qboutiquestl.com ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION

5. Listen to holiday music to get into the spirit. 6. Shop with a buddy to keep you on-task. 7. Be sure to snag gift receipts. 8. Wear comfortable shoes, and stay hydrated. 9. Go in with a game plan. 10. Most importantly: Have fun!

RUNG DEVIL CITY

Diane Von Furstenberg wrap jacket, size 8, $125 (originally $264), new with tags 9739 Manchester Rd. 314.918.0575 SHOPRUNG.ORG

PETUNIA Retro Christmas tree t-shirt with red glitter name and lace petti-pants. Pants come in sizes 12m to 8 and in black, turquoise, red, green, and pink. $28 each.

These giftable items encompass the idea, concept, materials and production method involved to make them look interesting while adding a creative element to their surroundings. Mollaspace items now available at Devil City. Bomb Vase $55, Armed Notebook $22, Grenade Bank $35. 6301 Delmar Blvd. 314.863.8080 devilcity.com

169 Carondelet Plz. 314.721.3133 Sweetpetuniaclothing.com

IVY HILL House of Harlow 1960 NICOLE Sunglasses, oversized grey rounded frame sunglasses with gold metal frame detail & signature brand logo inlaid in both arms. Modern, classic... simply gorgeous! $139. 304 North Euclid Ave. 314.367.7004 IVYHILLBOUTIQUE.COM

THE EYE BAR

KIND SOAP COMPANY

How many times can one look for one's glasses? And wearing those granny leashes—not an option. Why can’t something be functional, stylish and well made?

The KIND Soap Company store is small but mighty. There are so many unique gift ideas–from all– natural, pampering bath luxury to vintage jewelry ready to hold an array of balms!

401 N. EUCLID 314.367.1848 THEEYEBAR.NET

43 South Old Orchard 314.517.2868 kindsoap.com

ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION

Extra Virgin, an Olive Ovation

GIFT GUIDE

Traditional handcrafted pottery from Poland decorated in sienna, cobalt blue, forest green and burnt orange. Go from oven to table, for family and company! Also, microwave and dishwasher safe. Many unique shapes and sizes. $21-$128 143 Carondelet Plz.. 314.727.6464 extravirginoo.com

10DENZA The Q.West line from iSkin provides stylish protection for all of your valuables with tote bags, iPad sleeves, MacBook sleeves and camera pouches in colorful padded Italian nylon. $50-$185. Available at 10denza retail lounge. 44 Maryland Ave. 314.361.1010 10denza.com

THE SERVICE BUREAU A quality picture frame makes a fantastic, personal holiday gift sure to be treasured for years. Try this dramatic frame by Diane Martin Designsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;just one of many exquisite selections at The Service Bureau.

BE DIRTY RICH The boutique where you are the celebrity! We offer the latest Hollywood fashions that will satisfy any socialite! Carrying quality top designers and custom pieces, personal stylists available.

9773 Clayton Rd. 314.991.1104 stlservicebureau.com

BeDirtyRich.com Bedirtyrich@gmail.com TWEET US! @BEDIRTYRICH

9 MONTHS IN STYLE The expectant mother on your gift list will look like one hot mama in this black embellished neck dress from Maternal America. It is sure to turn heads at all of the holiday parties this season! Find this and other holiday gifts at 9 Months in Style. Gift Certificates available! 11243 Manchester Rd. 314.835.9935 9monthsinstylestl.com

ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION

GIDDYUP JANE Just what every woman needs this holiday season...black patent leather cowgirl boots by Lucchese. Perfect with your favorite jeans or your dressiest velvets. $660 at GiddyUp Jane. 9670 Clayton Rd. 314.993.9944

Influential Woman Influential Woman OF OF ST. St. LOUIS lOUIS

The The woman woman who who makes makes things things happen. happen.

When Ola Hawatmeh is working on her designs, makeovers, styling and teaching, she is also busy WhenanOla Hawatmeh is working onjuggling her designs, makeovers, and teaching,can shebeisaalso busy being on-the-go mom. Although the duties of workstyling and motherhood challenge, being an on-the-go mom. Although juggling the duties of work and motherhood can be a challenge, it is with the influence and inspiration of other working moms that she has found the time and it is with the and inspiration of other working moms that shefashion has found the time and her motivation toinfluence start not one, but three businesses. This entrepreneurial maven attributes motivation to parents, start notwho one, taught but three entrepreneurial fashion attributes her success to her herbusinesses. the valuesThis and morals that make her themaven person she is today: success to her parents, who taught her the values and morals that make her the person she is today: be strong, courageous and never give up. be strong, courageous and never give up. In November 2007, Hawatmeh created Mom Me Makeover, a company that provides inside-out In November Hawatmeh created Mom Me Makeover, a company that provides inside-out makeovers for2007, mothers, to help them feel more confident about themselves. Riding on the success makeovers for mothers, to help feel the more confidentMakeover about themselves. Riding on allows the success she found with this venture, shethem started nonprofit for a Cause, which cancer she found with this venture, she started the nonprofit Makeover for a Cause, which allows cancer victims, homeless, battered and sheltered women to benefit from the pampering makeovers as well. victims, homeless, battered and sheltered women to benefit from the pampering makeovers as well. To make each and every person she works with feel special, and to ensure the makeover experience is To make each and Hawatmeh every personmakes she works special, ensure the makeover experience one to remember, sure with to putfeel time asideand for atoconsultation with each client. Heris one to remember, Hawatmehand makes sureintopsychology put time aside forMarist a consultation Her degree in communications minor from Collegewith in NYeach hasclient. helped her degree in communications and minor in psychology from Marist College in NY has helped her understand the women she works with, especially in Makeover for a Cause, and allows her to council understand women works with, especially in Makeover for aa Cause, andcompany allows heristothrilling council them as theythe embark onshe journeys to better themselves. “Running makeover them as they embark on journeys to better themselves. “Running a makeover company is thrilling because I get to do something that I enjoy very much while helping change people’s lives,” she says. because I get to do something that I enjoy very much while helping change people’s lives,” she says.

DRESS SHOWN IS AN OLA STYLE ORIGINAL DESIGN DRESS SHOWN IS AN OLA STYLE ORIGINAL DESIGN

Ola Ola Hawatmeh HawatmeH CEO of Mom Me Makeover CEO of Mom Me Makeover Designer and Founder of Ola Style Designer and Founder of Ola Style CEO of Makeover for a Cause CEO of Makeover for a Cause 8103 Maryland Ave. Clayton, MO 63105 8103 Maryland Ave. Clayton, MO 63105 314 768.0516 • www.Olastyle.net 314 768.0516 • www.Olastyle.net olastyle1@gmail.com olastyle1@gmail.com BY MELISSA GRUBBS BY MELISSA GRUBBS

Even with two businesses running in high gear with much success, she chose in December 2008 to Evenher with two high gear with much success, she chose in December 2008 to take love forbusinesses fashion to running the nextin level and became a fashion designer. By 2009, she was launching take her love for fashion to the next level and became a fashion designer. By 2009, she was launching her first clothing line, M3. Now, she runs Ola Style, regularly producing fashion shows and new her first clothing M3. Now, runs OlatoStyle, andand newhold lines. “Every otherline, month I go toshe New York meetregularly with myproducing producer,fashion launchshows my line lines. “Every other“Right monthnow, I go to New York to meet with my producer, launch shows, ” she says. I am preparing for Kansas City Fashion Week,my asline welland as hold shows in shows,”LA sheand says.New “Right now, I am preparing for Kansas” City as well aswith shows in of Vegas, York Fashion Week in February. This Fashion season Week, is her busiest, plenty Vegas, LA and New York Fashion Week in February.” This season is her busiest, with plenty of clients in need of styling and personal shopping. clients in need of styling and personal shopping. When she’s not busy designing and running her business ventures, Hawatmeh volunteers with various When s not events, busy designing and running herofbusiness ventures, volunteers withseminars various St. Louisshe’ charity helps out with Friends Kids with Cancer Hawatmeh and gives once-a-month St. Louis charity events, helps out with Friends of Kids with Cancer and gives once-a-month seminars with the St. Patrick Center education program. She addresses issues like going back to school, with the St.job Patrick Centerskills education program.tips Sheon addresses issues like going back to school, practicing interview and provides dressing to impress. practicing job interview skills and provides tips on dressing to impress. To continue to be a loving mother and successful business owner, Hawatmeh is careful to keep her To continue toup, be with a loving mother andinsuccessful business owner, Hawatmeh is careful keep her priorities lined family always the number one spot. Although each day differstodepending priorities lined up, family always in the number one spot. each day differs depending on what’s inked intowith her schedule, she emphasizes that none ofAlthough it would be possible without the love on what’ s inked into her schedule,give sheher emphasizes of it would be possible and support of her family—who the drivethat and none happiness to create beautifulwithout things.the “To love me, anddefinition support ofofher family—who the drive and to create beautiful things. “To me, the success is to look give into her my children’s eyeshappiness and see contentment in their hearts, smiles thetheir definition success is to look children’ s eyesand andgood see contentment their hearts, smiles on faces,ofand to know theyinto are my happy, healthy Catholics,” in she says. on their faces, and to know they are happy, healthy and good Catholics,” she says. The end of the day finds Hawatmeh preparing for the next morning by making lunches for her The end of the daylaundry finds Hawatmeh preparing the nextready. morning bydinner, makingshe lunches her children, finishing and getting schoolfor uniforms After talks for over Skype children, finishing contacts laundry and school uniforms ready.answers After dinner, talks overonSkype with international andgetting manufacturing companies, emailsshe and works designs with international and may manufacturing answers and workslipstick on designs before bed. Life forcontacts Hawatmeh not alwayscompanies, come as easy as theemails candy-colored in your before but bed.itLife for Hawatmeh maythat not keeps alwaysher come as easypushing as the candy-colored in your purse, is this daily lifestyle always for the next lipstick best thing. purse, but it is this daily lifestyle that keeps her always pushing for the next best thing.

ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION

THE REAL DEAL

Amidst a fanciful Hollywood life and the dark fairy tales that haunt his new TV drama, STL actor DAVID GIUNTOLI is as grounded as they come.

BY AMY DE LA HUNT PHOTO BY Brian Higbee/ CPi Syndication

It’s a little ironic that St. Louis-bred actor DAVID Giuntoli received his first big break from a new NBC crime drama inspired by the famous Grimm fairy tales. After all, the thought of a down-to-earth Midwestern guy making it in Hollywood could arguably be the makings of a pretty decent fantasy. And even though Giuntoli’s celebrity life often comes in equal doses reality and fantasy, it’s been every bit as interesting as he could’ve ever imagined. Take his latest acting adventure, “Grimm,” which premiered in late October. It isn’t based on the modernized version of Cinderella and other familiar fairy tales, where the lowly maid wins the heart of the prince. Two hundred years ago, when the German brothers first published the story, it was a little darker—as in, the stepsisters mutilate their feet to fit them into Cinderella’s tiny golden slipper. This is the grisly fairytale world Giuntoli inhabits on “Grimm,” which is already earning high marks from critics for originality. The 31-year-old actor, who played his first part at St. Louis University High School in ’98, plays the role of detective Nick Burkhardt, a descendant of the Grimm family with special powers that allow him to see the beasts lurking inside the criminals he’s chasing. It’s Giuntoli’s first leading role in a television series, though he’s been gaining traction in LA since 2005. His first break came when he was on the cast of MTV’s reality show “Road Rules: South Pacific” in 2003. Two years later, he moved to Los Angeles with a college diploma in international business and finance and a whole lot of enthusiasm for acting. He’s since landed parts in TV shows, including “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Cold Case,” and a number of TV movies. Giuntoli spoke with ALIVE from Portland, where “Grimm” is filmed, to talk about his journey to Hollywood, his unfolding TV stardom and his upcoming movie. He also set us straight on a few stereotypes that he himself harbored before living in LA. For one thing, all actors are not rich; “99 percent of them are working like it’s a blue-collar business,” he quips. And another: “It’s really not very glamorous when you’re doing it”—yet, he’s loving every bloody minute. ALIVE: How did you get into acting…was it doing plays at SLUH? David Giuntoli: I wasn’t really doing plays. I would take all these courses, like scene studies, improv, things like that, and then we had this thing that every graduating class did called “Senior Follies,” and I just wrapped myself around that. I loved it! ALIVE: Was the Indiana University degree in business something your parents wanted you to do? DG: Some people know what they want to do when they’re kids. I was not one of those people. I didn’t know what I wanted to do in college, and my parents were like, “Why don’t you get this degree?” But once I started straying from that, I certainly was encouraged to do what I wanted to do. My

alivemag.com

family’s always been very supportive and encouraging and kind of giddy about me going for it. ALIVE: I bet they’re really giddy now. DG: Now they can tell their friends what I do without having to qualify it with, “Well, he did a pilot, but it didn’t get picked up…but a pilot’s a big deal.” ALIVE: What’s it like being the lead on a series? DG: It’s insane! I had no idea how work-intensive it is. It can be 14 hours every day, and then you’re back home and you’re trying to work out and be in shape and stay healthy mentally and do press. Once I booked this thing, I talked to people who had been the leads of their own shows, and they warned me, “Get ready!” It’s a weird sleeping schedule—hard to get rest. ALIVE: Sounds like it’s grueling at times. DG: Yeah, that’s why staying in shape is really hard. So finally I went to Sports Authority and bought weights for my trailer. You know you’re starting to slip when a 19-year-old kid who’s working there comes up to you and says, “Hey, looking to get back in shape, huh?” ALIVE: Have you been brushing up on your fairy tales, too? DG: My relationship with fairy tales went from zero to being completely enveloped. I’ve read most of the Grimm fairy tales—in their original form, they’re very dark and menacing. I think they kind of served the function that horror movies serve now for teenagers. “Don’t have sex!” “Don’t drink in the woods!” “Don’t leave your house!” You’re supposed to be scared. ALIVE: “Grimm” is produced by Jim Kout and David Greenwalt, an early writer and director of “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.” Were you a fan of “Buffy”? DG: I just remember thinking Sarah Michelle Gellar was hot. ALIVE: So, you weren’t thinking about the writing and the plot? DG: You have to understand, I was almost failing out of high school. I had horrible ADD, and that kept me from sitting in front of the TV too much. Then Ritalin came along and I was saved. But, I revisited “Buffy” after I got this show. Man, it was so fun and playful and smart. It was campy, but it didn’t insult your intelligence. Just to be involved with one of the creators of that is humbling. ALIVE: Tell me about your upcoming movie, “Caroline & Jackie.”

DG: It’s so wild. Bitsie Tulloch plays my girlfriend in “Grimm.” She’s an awesome actress. Just randomly, last summer I got offered this movie. So Bitsie and I worked together for a month and a half, and it was great. We had a lot of chemistry. Then after I booked “Grimm,” I went in and helped in the casting process. In walks Bitsie, and I’m like, “Oh my God!” She nailed the audition. And, the next thing you know, we’re playing boyfriend and girlfriend again. We joke that we’re gonna get a head shot together. ALIVE: It must be nice to feel like you’re getting to know your way around the scene in LA. DG: It takes a while to get your foot in the door and to get some traction out there. I’m addicted to the rush of auditioning, and it’s weird not to audition now. It’s kind of like adrenaline junkie behavior. You need that zest for life, especially in the beginning, just to keep you going. ALIVE: So did you ever think about coming back to St. Louis? DG: Actors have an unhealthy dose of delusional confidence. If you’re booking jobs every year, you have momentum, so even though you’re not working a ton, you feel like you’re going in the right direction. Also, none of my friends had jobs regularly—you have a community where that’s the norm, and you help each other through until everybody gets their break, and then you help each other to the next level. ALIVE: And it takes the stress off while you wait to find out if your show is a hit. DG: You just take what you get when you get it, and enjoy it! Don’t take it too seriously. You have to have more confidence than you deserve, and that gives you the excitement to go on—otherwise, it’s miserable. ALIVE: Any thoughts about what your future might hold? DG: Actors always want to be working, but if you’re lucky enough to work, you want to be creatively satisfied. This role is fantastic for that. I just want to keep getting roles that are satisfying for me. ALIVE: Do you come back to St. Louis to visit? DG: Yeah, I love St. Louis. It’s such a real place where people are real, and they’re not trying to show off. Some of my best friends are in St. Louis, and my family is there. Christmas is like the greatest time for me. And thank God for Cardinals baseball—it’s the only sport I care at all about!

december 2011 ALIVE STL 69

The 2011

wish list

Your foolproof guide to properly gifting everyone on your list this holiday season. By Jill Manoff M photos by carmen troesser

’T

is the season of giving, the season of sharing, the season to freak out about finding sufficiently thoughtful gifts for every loved one on your list. Avoid becoming a Scrooge and instead, knock back some eggnog, and skim our handy guide to finding the perfect presents across the board. Once you see how easy we’ve made it to pick up garments, gear and gadgets for everyone—from your hipster brother to your picky BFF—you’ll inevitably find yourself in the holiday spirit. If you suddenly break into carols, we completely understand.

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Have you ever seen her donning studs?

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Three months. Romance is already in the air, so perfume just makes sense. Fendi Fan di Fendi perfume available at Saks Fifth Avenue, Plaza Frontenac, 314.567.9200.

Flashy no. Her idea of a statement bag is one that’s striking, but sans bells and whistles. Ivanka Trump handbag available at Klutch, Town & Country, 636.220.6110.

Is she more…

Feminine

Girlfriend

Significant Other Is he more… metro

He’s into accessories…

That are practical. A boring black wallet is not his style; give him a modern upgrade. J.Fold wallet available at Moris Fashions, Central West End, 314.361.6800.

72 ALIVE STL december 2011

One year. Show her you’re serious with a piece of jewelry—but avoid disappointing by choosing something that doesn’t come in a small square box. Tiffany & Co. small heart key locket available at Tiffany & Co., Plaza Frontenac, 314.692.2255.

Boyfriend

You’ve been dating…

masculine

r��

that are posh. If you decide to splurge, opt for a high-end timepiece he’ll wear for years. Croton watch available at Mavrík Fine Jewelry & Diamonds, Kirkwood, 314.909.6818.

Six months. Sexy lingerie from Frederick’s of Hollywood? Bad idea. Instead, go to Jule—and don’t be shy about asking questions. Elle Macpherson lingerie available at Jule, Ladue, 314.983.9282.

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Yes. Studded-to-themax heels seem made for your “dangerous” gal. ZiGiNY heels available at Epiphany Boutique, Grand Center, 314.249.5384.

in a traditional kind of way. If he’s going to be your Mr. Fix-It, he’s going to need badass work boots. Red Wing boots available at Devil City, The Loop, 314.863.8080.

in a trendy kind of way. A rugged, canvas-look coat will keep him looking current. G-Star RAW jacket available at Blues, The Loop, 314.863.3600.

alivemag.com

Rocking with his band. A selfish gift or not (you’re sick of hearing his music), he’ll be excited to unwrap a pair of cool headphones. Marshall headphones available at Nordstrom, Saint Louis Galleria, 314.884.4900.

Into skinny jeans

A baby face. To him, a clean shave is as important as clean underwear; just go with it. The Art of Shaving Power Shave Collection available at The Art of Shaving, Saint Louis Galleria, 314.862.1045.

If he’s…

(Read: he's a hipster.)

In a Frat

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He can be found…

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Skateboarding in the park. Just because he has a closet full of sneakers doesn’t mean he wouldn’t love more; it’s like you and your stilettos. Alife sneakers available at 10denza, Central West End, 314.361.1010.

Studying in a coffee shop. Buy him a manly bag, rather than a “man bag.” It’s flannel versus leather— and doesn’t look a thing like a purse. Filson duffel bag available at Devil City, The Loop, 314.863.8080.

A poker face. Give him a poker set and a six-pack as a hint: it’s his turn to host poker night. Poker set available at Décor Interiors & Jewelry, Chesterfield, 314.434.4022.

Brother

Siblings r��

Athletic

A meditator. Because one should only “downward dog” in style, set her up with colorful yoga gear. Yoga mat available at Blue Moon Activewear, Clayton, 314.256.1823.

A motivater. She'll be hitting the pavement with sporty separates she can mix and match. lululemon workout wear available at lululemon athletica, Plaza Frontenac, 314.994.7662.

alivemag.com

You’d describe her as…

Her personality reads…

Fashionista r��

Sister

Does he have…

Her style is more… cool. If she loves shopping vintage, but doesn’t have the time to search, surprise her with something from Blush’s new vintage collection. Blush vintage boots available at Blush, Kirkwood, 314.965.4411.

Classic. Cater to her feminine side with this CODI ring available at CODI, Chesterfield, 636.227.2634.

contemporary. Sexy specs have become her signature; she’ll love adding to her growing collection. Face a Face glasses available at The Eye Bar, Central West End, 314.367.1848.

december 2011 ALIVE STL 73

go (all) out. Because “black tie” is music to his ears, buy him accessories he’ll love as much as his tux. Cuff links available at Décor Interiors & Jewelry, Chesterfield, 314.434.4022.

Dad

He likes to.…

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Creative

Is he more…

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His Starbucks order. As the barista can never seem to get it right, let him have at it. Nespresso Machine available at Sur La Table, Plaza Frontenac, 314.993.0566.

His artwork. Hook up your rightbrained dad with high-end photo gear. Nikon J1 camera available at Schiller's Camera Co., Brentwood, 314.968.3650.

Conservative

Parents/In-Laws j

Mom Is she more…

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sassy

Show-stopping pieces. She’ll be sure to make an entrance in an on-trend, voluminous cape. Eileen Fisher cape available at Eileen Fisher, Plaza Frontenac, 314.983.0975.

She can never have too many…

Reasons to get all dolled up. As you’re constantly waiting for her to put on her face, updating her tools is a good idea. Bobbi Brown makeup brush set available at Nordstrom, Saint Louis Galleria, 314.884.4900.

stay in. Because he appreciates good wine and good company, bring him a bottle—and stay for a while. Wine available at Brennan’s, Central West End, 314.361.9444. Vintage wine rack available at TFA The Future Antiques, St. Louis Hills, 314.865.1552.

Sparkly. If diamonds are her best friend, buy her a dazzling piece of jewelry that will never go out of style. Diamond earrings available at Albarré Jewelry, Ladue, 314.997.1707.

sophisticated

r��

He never fails to impress with…

His classy attire. Like other dads, he’ll do a sweater—but be sure to stray far from cable knits, turtlenecks and Mr. Rogers cardigans. Skif sweater available at Skif, The Hill, 314.773.4401.

She prefers pieces that are…

Heels to give her a boost. Present her with a new pair of patent leather heels, topped with a bow. Valentino heels available at Neiman Marcus, Plaza Frontenac, 314.567.9811.

Structured. If she’s picky about her purse, choose something in a timeless shade and shape. Prada handbag available at Neiman Marcus, Plaza Frontenac, 314.567.9811.

Looking out for others. She’ll love knowing her gift of TOMS shoes also means a gift for a child in need. TOMS shoes available at Cha, Ladue, 314.993.8080.

Looking in the mirror. “Smizing” practice will be even more fun when she has 12 new eyeshadow shades. Urban Decay NAKED Palette available at Macy’s, Saint Louis Galleria, 314.726.1810.

She’s known for…

She’d rather be…

r��

Being a bit of a homebody. A gal that loves changing up her décor will love finding a home for colorful throw pillows. Pillows available at Niche, Downtown, 314.621.8131.

Her style is more…

Traditional

Trendy

Stocking up on staples. She’ll count on her “practical” cashmere scarf to elevate casual, everyday looks. Scarf available at Ivy Hill, Central West End, 314.367.7004.

Pondering “Who Wore it best.” A fan of celeb style, she'll be stoked to work Wildfox—worn by Beyonce and Taylor Swift. WildFox Couture hoodie available at Meka, Chesterfield, 636.536.6300.

Gal Pal

friends

Singing country. Whether he’s a country boy or just likes to pretend, buckle him up! Belt and buckle available at GiddyUp Jane, Ladue, 314.993.9944.

Best Bud j

Smoking a cigar. He’s been a fan of fine cigars ever since he saw Jack Nicholson smoking. Don’t let him see “The Shining.” Cigars available at Charles P. Stanley Cigar Bar, Downtown, 314.436.3500.

A karaoke bar...

Primping to no end. Luxe beauty products in innovative palettes make hot gifts for her. Le Metier de Beaute Face Kaleidoscope available at Neiman Marcus, Plaza Frontenac, 314.567.9811.

You’d likely find him in…

Rocking an air guitar. A longtime fan of “the greats,” he'll appreciate being reunited with Jimi Hendrix, Pink Floyd and The Grateful Dead. Remastered Classic Rock ’n’ Roll CDs available at Vintage Vinyl, The Loop, 314.721.4096.

A coffee shop...

Attempting to read through his Bieber bangs. He’ll love receiving a shampoo and gel set, even if he’s already deemed his hair “perfection.” American CREW Daily Duo gift set available at Look After, multiple locations, lookafterhairco.com.

Sizing up customers’ MacBooks. Because he’s on the pulse of technology and little else, he could use some help accessorizing. Laptop case available at 10denza, Central West End, 314.361.1010.

Shopping online. Surefire ways to wow a fashion fanatic? Look for luxe materials and beloved labels. BOSS Hugo Boss scarf available at Moris Fashions, Central West End, 314.361.6800.

At the zoo. Help your animallover save up for her own pet by gifting her a girl-friendly bank. Hand-painted bunny bank available at Ware, Clayton, 314.727.2500.

On speaker phone. Encourage her gift of gab with a stylish custom cell phone case. Personalized phone case available at Vellum, Kirkwood, 314.909.1640.

Watching TV past her bedtime. Make sure she enjoys nighttime snacks and bedtime stories in style. Pajamas available at Verde Kids, Webster Groves, 314.962.5437.

She'd rather...

Daddy's Girl

At the library. Reiterate that books best television with a classic, animated read. “The Wizard of Oz, A Scanimation Book” available at Left Bank Books, Central West End, 314.367.6731.

Be the entertainer

r��

Be entertained r��

kids Little Man

More specifically… his closet. Stock his closet with cute separates—so you can continue to let him pick out his own clothes. Jacket available at Verde Kids, Webster Groves, 314.962.5437.

r��

Cleaning his room

He’s more likely to be found… his bookshelf. If story time is his favorite time, make sure some Seuss is in the rotation. “The Bippolo Seed and Other Lost Stories” by Dr. Seuss available at Left Bank Books, Central West End, 314.367.6731.

Dirtying his hands

She’s happiest…

On the playground. He won’t mind bundling up for recess when he loves his winter accessories. Moose hat available at Verde Kids, Webster Groves, 314.962.5437.

r��

She’s most likely found…

Onstage. If it were up to her, she’d be in a costume 24/7; give her a fab alternative. Custom tee and tutu available at Petunia, Clayton, 314.721.3133.

While…

In the playroom. Opt for trendy, oldschool toys this season— and show him simple can be exciting, too. Classic building blocks available at City Sprouts, The Loop, 314.726.9611.

In the kitchen. Get the budding chef starter tools for his choice trade. Martha Stewart Kids Collection Mix & Measure Prep Set available at Macy’s, Saint Louis Galleria, 314.726.1810. 76 ALIVE STL december 2011

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ambitious. It may only involve fake money, but a game of Monopoly will give him his competitive fix. Vintage Monopoly Game available at Restoration Hardware, Saint Louis Galleria, 314.863.7566.

At home. If he’s a fan of his fireplace, gift him a new match strike; if you’re feeling extra generous, fetch his firewood, too. Jonathan Adler pipe match strike and matches available at Niche, Downtown, 314.621.8131. He gets his R&R…

r��

He’s all about…

r��

Boss Man

Making money

co-worker

Drinks. Stock her home bar with the best glassware and accessories. Jonathan Adler coasters available at Niche, Downtown, 314.621.8131.

Thrifty. Get him a chic money clip to remind him to pinch his pennies. Money clip available at Diamond & Jewelry Brokers, Manchester, 636.391.6622.

Boss Lady When away from the office, she’s…

Dinner. Buy her dinnerware that complements her pizza with provel and toasted ravioli. St. Louis dinnerware available at Good Works, The Loop, 314.726.2233.

“Working” from home r��

Apron on, in the kitchen

r��

Cozying up on the sofa. When she’s healthy, she’s happy—so pamper her with a variety of tasty teas. Teavana cast iron teapot available at Teavana, multiple locations, teavana.com.

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He’s best described as…

Making an exit by 5pm

In the men’s department. Complement his fashion habit with desk supplies that seem suited to a Dapper Dan. Wingtips paperweights available at The Service Bureau, Ladue, 314.991.1104.

Her strong suit is…

Organized. Help him manage his bills, checks and work docs with a sleek set of tools. Letter opener & magnifying glass gift set and mouse pad available at The Service Bureau, Ladue, 314.991.1104.

While…

on her laptop. When she’s not working, she’s networking; remind her to always have business cards on hand. Business card holder available at Savvy Surroundings, Ladue, 314.432.7289.

In the tub. Yummy-smelling soaps and bubble bath are chicken soup for her soul. KIND bath products available at KIND Soap Company, Webster Groves, 314.517.2868.

december 2011 ALIVE STL 77

78 ALIVE STL december 2011

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St. Louis

shopping Guide

We’ve searched the city for the best shops and hottest gift ideas for every person on your list—from the latest in fashion and jewelry to unique specialty stores. Plus, local gift-giving experts share tips on choosing just the right present to make everyone’s holidays bright. By Gwen Ragno, Jessica Ruhlin and Khori Wright

FASHION

icon key

From hot new boutiques to longstanding staples, these stores are stocked with the latest traditional-to-trendy clothing and accessories for him and her.

Denim

Jewelry

Shoes

Avalon Exchange Buy and sell like-new clothing and accessories at this popular trading post, and never wear the same thing twice. 6388 Delmar Blvd., The Loop,

West End, 314.361.6161. Gift: Scarves, cashmere.

Hot Gift: 314.725.2760. Patterned tights and scarves.

Hot

Ladue, 314.997.2360. Hot Gift: Virgins, Saints and Angels jewlery. ANDREA’S BOUTIQUE This little haven of both new and vintage finds has a great selection of purses, jewelry, artwork and more. Definitely check it out if you’re looking for something different and edgy. 1145 N. Lafayette St., Florissant, 314.831.7500. Hot Gift: Camel-colored coat (resale). APRICOT LANE With brands like Level 99, Miss Me and Hudson, Apricot Lane offers a trendy mix of premium brands and looks. 2401 Saint Louis Galleria, Brentwood, 314.725.0020; 291 Chesterfield Mall,

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Handbags

AG Adriano Goldschmied The his and her go-to for casualclassic apparel and all-American denim in of-the-moment cuts and washes. 36 Maryland Plaza, Central

Alixandra Collections A girly girl’s dream closet, stocked with sweaters by Nicole Miller, separates by Free People and fashion jewelry galore. 9814 Clayton Rd.,

Cha

Women’s Fashion Men’s Fashion

Chesterfield, 636.537.1161. Hot Gift: Riding boots.

Bakers If you love footwear by fashion’s top designers but don’t have the wardrobe budget to fund it, shop Bakers for like styles at a sliver of the cost. 1155 Saint Louis Galleria, Hot Brentwood, 314.725.6155. Gift: The Wylie wooden heel wedge. Beverly’s Hill Head to Beverly’s Hill for panties and PJs, from sexy bras and cute boyshorts to camis and comfy robes. 1309 Washington Ave., Downtown, 314.621.1633. Hot Gift: Deisel “Cecile” lounge dress. Blue Moon Activewear Locally-owned Blue Moon Activewear caters to active women—via stylish, comfortable, fun and functional clothing and accessories. 159 Carondelet Plaza, Clayton, Hot Gift: Falke 314.256.1823. ergonomically designed half-zip pullover. december 2011 ALIVE STL 79

Hot Gift: Black 314.965.4411. and red La Mer Bali stud watches.

Ask the Expert

Boutique 83 Shop modern Howe and Ben Sherman for him and a sexy-meetshigh-fashion selection of brands like Meghan Fabulous and Vivienne Westwood Anglomania for her. 4658 Maryland Ave., Central West End, Hot Gift: Ben 314.361.4700. Sherman button-down.

Everyone loves receiving new clothes as a gift, but buying for someone other than yourself can be difficult. Cole Forst, a personal shopper at Saks Fifth Avenue, gave us some tips on choosing a fashionforward gift that will never end up at the back of the closet.

Boxers Your source for men’s briefs, boxer-briefs, swimwear and loungewear by lines including Diesel, Armani and 2xist. 1305 Washington

Accessorize. It’s a little easier to buy accessories and outerwear as gifts, since sizing doesn’t have to be as exact. In accessories, look for saturated jewel tones that will add pop to a go-to outfit. With women’s outerwear, try new shapes like ¾-length sleeves or a cape—the fitted military look is out. Toggle coats, exaggerated plaids and camel colors are your best bets in men’s outerwear.

Clayton Rd. Ladue, 314.993.8080.

Mix Media. Look for a fabric that the person you’re buying for doesn’t have a lot of—it will make your gift feel more special and luxurious. For example, if they wear a lot of cotton, try a leather cuff or glove. Or, go for a softer look with cashmere or silk. Be Bold. A gift is the perfect opportunity to add some drama to the recipient’s wardrobe. Forst suggests going for trendy jeweled or sparkly tops, an oversized 3D-knit cardigan or cape, handbags with oversized tassels and futuristic digital prints.

Ave., Downtown, 314.454.0209. Hot Gift: Emporio Armani Eagle Trunk. Cha The go-to for such must-have brands as Wildfox Couture and L.A.M.B. 9666 Hot Gift: Customized TOMS. Clique Shopping on a budget, but loyal to a number of name brands? Shop Clique, where you can load up on gently-used jackets, dresses, denim and more by the labels you love, for less. 11551 Gravois Rd., Sunset Hills, 314.729.0883. Hot Gift: Designer jackets. Daisy Clover Women love Daisy Clover for its vast array of sizes and “now” lines, including Paige Premium Denim, Citizens of Humanity and Susana Monaco. 8146 Big Bend Blvd., Webster Groves, 314.962.4477. Gift: Origami by Lilla P.

Hot

Dazzle Fill your gift bag with fab statement jewelry, trendy accessories, picture frames and oodles of out-of-the-ordinary pieces. 169 Lamp and Lantern Village Dr., Town & Country, Hot Gift: Mariana 636.220.7200. “Guardian” necklace. Designer Resale Boutique Get the high-end look without the matching price tag. Shop Designer Resale Boutique for gently used designer labels. 344 Mid Rivers Mall Dr., St. Charles, 636.279.3968. Hot Gift: Unique and unusual jewelry pieces.

80 ALIVE STL december 2011

Devil City With brands rooted in American style, Devil City pays tribute to craftsmanship by bringing together old concepts with current styles. 6301 Delmar Blvd., The Loop. 314.863.8080. Hot Gift: Carnival wax candles. Dillard’s Beloved for carrying some of fashion’s hottest brands for him, her and home, the shoe and contemporary departments are among the highlights. 1105 Saint Louis Galleria, Brentwood, 314.725.8363. Steve Madden boots.

Hot Gift:

Dotdotdash Busy moms, rejoice! At Dotdotdash, you can shop everything from yoga and office wear for you, to cozy message tees and onesies for your little one. 6334 N. Rosebury Ave., Clayton, 314.862.1962. Hot Gift: iPhone touch glove in assorted colors. Eileen Fisher Classic, upscale, sophisticated and chic, Eileen Fisher offers head-to-toe pieces for work and play, including petite sizes and stylish accessories. 84 Plaza Frontenac, Frontenac, 314.983.0975. Hot Gift: Brown velvet scoop-neck top with bronze-washed mohair infinity wrap. EPIPHANY BOUTIQUE Be the trendsetter, not the trend follower. This one-of-a-kind boutique has a unique and sophisticated showcase of high-fashion pieces for women to meet all of your personal style wants and needs. 3431 Locust St., Midtown, 314.249.5384. Hot Gift: ZIGIny Starter black leather boot. Esther Style and luxury unite at this brand new Ladue boutique with jewelry, handbags and gift items for the sophisticated woman. 1556 S. Lindbergh Blvd., Ladue, 314.432.5300. Hot Gift: Elizabeth & James fur coat. Express From office separates to party dresses, Express is the ultimate source for on-trend pieces. Shop styles ranging from sexy to sophisticated. Menswear available at most locations. Six St. Louis area stores; express.com. Hot Gift: Men’s and women’s accessories. Femme True to its name, Femme is a ladies-only shop that perfectly caters to its target customer via on-trend clothing and accessories. 7270

Manchester Ave., Maplewood, 314.781.6868. Hot Gift: Sarapatino gold jewelry. GiddyUp Jane Head to GiddyUp Jane and saddle up in authentic riding wear and on-trend Western accessories. 9670 Clayton Rd., Ladue, 314.993.9944. Hot Gift: Cowboy boots. It Boutique For cute wearables and memorable gifts, shop It Boutique—where trendy jewelry and handbags mingle with glassware and candles. 125 N. Main St., St. Charles, 636.940.7576. Hot Gift: Humorous paper cocktail napkins. Ivy Hill French Connection sequin dresses, Tulle coats, Big Buddha handbags and plenty of jewelry line this Central West End shop, known for of-the-moment looks for her. 304 N. Euclid Ave., Central West End, 314.367.7004. Hot Gift: French Connection dresses. Jillybean Dress your little guy or girl as your mini-me in made-for-kids apparel by your favorite boutique brands. Shop Splendid Girl, Ella Moss Girl and more in sizes newborn to 14. 9208 Clayton Rd., Ladue, 636.220.4221. Hot Gift: LeTaxi Dress. Ju Ju B’s Carrying chic wearables from head to toe, including must-have Level 99 denim, Ju Ju B’s is a true one-stopshop. As it shares space with a salon, you can leave with a new ‘do and a new dress. 48 Four Seasons Center, Chesterfield, 314.469.7096. Hot Gift: Ruana one-size-fits-all cashmere blend wrap. Jule Lingerie & Loungewear Upscale lingerie, swimwear and PJs by Hanky Panky, Huit, Cosabella and Eberjey. 9757 Clayton Rd., Ladue, 314.983.9282. pajama sets.

Hot Gift: Eberjey

Kate Spade A bright mecca of fabulous and feminine shoes, handbags, jewelry, clothing and more by Kate Spade. 34 Plaza Frontenac, Frontenac, Hot Gift: 314.991.8820. “Victoria” faux fur pullover. Klutch Boutique Outfit yourself in looks by L.A.M.B., Meghan Fabulous, Miss Me, Nightcap, Wildfox Couture and more at this alivemag.com

Photo by Kylie Schweiss.

Blush Get outfitted for any occasion at the newly-expanded Blush boutique, where Jeffrey Campbell kicks, Tulle coats and Wildfox Couture tees fill the racks. 110 N. Clay Ave., Kirkwood,

trendy Town & Country clothier. 1126 Town & Country Crossing Dr., Town & Country, 636.220.6110. Gift: Tolani scarves.

Hot

Laurie Solet Free People, Foley+Corinna, LaROK and Graham & Spencer are among the offerings at this popular two-location boutique. 8228 N. Forsyth Blvd., Clayton, 314.727.7467; 1176 Town & Country Crossing Dr., Town & Country, 636.527.4139. Hot Gift: Jeanine Payer “Emily” necklace in sterling silver with Rumi inscription. Levine Hat Co. Shop your choice topper style at Levine Hat Co., a longstanding St. Louis tradition for fedoras, Panama hats, Western styles and more. 1416 Washington Ave., Downtown, 314.231.3359. Hot Gift: Dino newsboy cap by Cavanagh. Lusso Shop Lusso for Nanette Lepore and Yoana Baraschi pieces for you, and the perfect gift for that someone special. Select from unique jewelry, beauty accessories, books and home goods at this boutique near The Ritz. 165 Carondelet Plaza, Clayton, 314.725.7205. Hot Gift: Jonathan Adler coaster sets. Macy’s Many a shopper's go-to department store, with head-to-toe brands for all in the family including MICHAEL Michael Kors, INC International Concepts, Calvin Klein and Coach. Multiple area locations, including 1550 Saint Louis Galleria, Brentwood, 314.726.1810. Hot Gift: Justin Bieber limited-edition fragrance. Mary Jane’s Trendy ready-to-wear by Eryn Brinie and Spiewak coats share space with Jeffrey Campbell shoes, House of Harlow jewelry and a slew of accessories. 387 N. Euclid Ave., Central West End, 314.367.8867. Hot Gift: Scarlett Garnet jewelry. Meka Boutique Meka houses such “it” brands as Wildfox Couture, Hudson Jeans, Old Gringo handbags and Zigi shoes. 1634 Clarkson Rd., Chesterfield, 636.536.6300. Hot Gift: Old Gringo boots. Melanie’s Shop a large selection of affordable jewelry, from delicate chains to bold alivemag.com

baubles, plus handbags, headbands and more at this popular accessories station. 10277 Clayton Rd., Ladue, 314.993.0664.

Hot Gift: Scarves.

Mezzanine A Maplewood hotspot for the latest styles by Tucker and Mara Hoffman, plus Alexis Bittar jewelry, Melissa shoes and more. 2741 Sutton Blvd., Maplewood, 314.645.2777. Hot Gift: Katie Kantley hand-dyed scarves. Mister Guy Sharp-dressed St. Louis men shop Mister Guy for suits, outerwear, sportswear and more by designers including Ralph Lauren and Robert Talbott. 9831 Clayton Rd., Ladue, 314.692.2003.

Hot Gift: Men’s ties.

Mister Guy Women’s Store Mister Guy's ladies location offers a stellar selection for her, including coats, denim, Tracy Reese dresses, Michael Stars staples, statement jewelry and more. 9817 Clayton Rd., Ladue, 314.991.5262. Michael Stars tops.

Hot Gift:

Moris Fashions Where the boys go for modern suiting and sportswear; think Boss, John Varvatos, Modern Amusement, Theory and Robert Graham. 26 Maryland Plaza, Central West End, 314.361.6800. Hot Gift: Goorin Bros “tweedy” fedora. NCJW Resale Shop Shop the well-stocked clothing racks and cases of luxe handbags at this designer resale shop; your high-fashion purchases benefit the National Council of Jewish Women St. Louis and its community projects. 295 N. Lindbergh Blvd., Creve Coeur, Hot Gift: 314.692.8141. Chanel clothing and shoes. Neiman Marcus For the very best, browse Neiman Marcus—where men’s and women’s designer offerings include Christian Louboutin, Gucci, Prada and Etro. 100 Plaza Frontenac, Frontenac, 314.567.9811. Gucci fragrances.

Hot Gift:

Nordstrom In addition to boasting one of the city’s top shoe departments, Nordstrom is known for practical-toluxury fashions for men, women and children by the likes of Diesel and Diane von Furstenberg. 47 West County Center, Des Peres, 314.255.2000. 1453 Saint Louis Galleria, Brentwood,

Nordstrom

Hot Gift: 314.884.4900. Cara Accessories ball and ribbon necklace.

beeline for Pulse. J Brand denim, Free People separates and Vintage Highway tees are among brand favorites. 1644 Clarkson Rd.,

NV Boutique If your biggest fear is showing up in the same dress as someone else, start shopping NV, where only a small quantity of each piece is sold, and styles are never boring. 1308 A Washington Ave., Downtown,

Chesterfield, 636.519.4022. Hot Gift: chicBuds keychain.

314.621.0029. Doors clutch.

Hot Gift: The Red

Paperdolls Women of all ages and styles can perfect their wardrobes at Paperdolls, where BB Dakota outerwear mingles with a slew of flirty dresses, jewelry at a variety of price points and Naughty Monkey footwear. 110 E. Jefferson Ave., Kirkwood, 314.965.3655. Poetic License candles.

Hot Gift:

Pulse For all things cutting-edge, make a

The Purple Cow Smart moms and moms-to-be become regulars at The Purple Cow, a resale shop with racks of kids’ choice apparel (by the likes of Gap and Gymboree) and on-trend maternity pieces. 11543 Gravois Rd., Sunset Hills, 314.843.3888. Hot Gift: Melissa and Doug games, toys and art supplies. Rung Specializing in brand-name career apparel for her, this resale shop donates 100 percent of its profits to support the Women’s Foundation of Greater St. Louis. 9739 Manchester Rd., Rock Hill, 314.918.0575. Costume jewelry.

Hot Gift:

december 2011 ALIVE STL 81

Hot

314.567.9200. Gift: Jimmy Choo shoes.

Hot Gift: Vintage men's

Woody’s Men’s Shop When dressing to impress is important, step into Woody’s, and find fail-proof pieces including Robert Graham shirts, Ike Behar ties and suits by Coppley. 10411 Clayton Rd., Suite 104, Frontenac, 314.569.3272. Hot Gift: Eton dress shirt.

cuff links.

Savile Row With a reputation as one of the city’s premier custom clothiers, Savile Row pieces are esteemed for quality fabric and impeccable fit. 9727 Clayton Rd., Ladue, 314.567.8500. Hot Gift: Cashmere from Dormevil and Holland & Sherry. The ScholarShop A resale shop offering mall-to-designer brands, purchases support The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis. 8211 Clayton Rd., Clayton, 314.725.3456. Fashionable finds.

tag At tag Timeless Authentic Garments, you’ll find a well-stocked, cherrypicked selection of coveted vintage cowboy boots, message tees, dresses, jackets and more. 6314 Delmar Blvd., The Loop, 314.721.1370.

Hot Gift:

Skif Designer Nina Ganci and her team are notorious for turning out knitwear in unexpected incarnations. Step inside the workshop to browse the latest sweaters and scarves. 2008 Marconi Ave., South City, 314.773.4401. Hot Gift: Birdie sweater. Sole & Blues Sole & Blues houses more G-Star Raw ready-to-wear, Hobo handbags and footwear by Bronx Diva and Luichiny than ever before. 6317 Delmar Blvd., The Loop, 314.863.2121. Hot Gift: Red Sorel boots, leather jacket. SPLASH At its new location, Splash offers all sorts of fun styles for her you can’t find anywhere else. 8811 Ladue Rd., Hot Gift: Suite B, 314.721.6442. Liberty Black handmade fringe cowboy boots.

Blvd., The Loop, 314.725.9602. Hot Gift: Oxmo wide-lapel draped cardigan.

Hot Gift: Embellished clutches and Swarovski crystal jewelry. Upscale Resale A high-end resale shop that works in collaboration with nonprofit Willows Way Inc., shoppers can purchase like-new Ann Taylor, Banana Republic and Coach apparel and accessories for a cause. 10042 Manchester Rd., Rock Hill, 314.821.8161. Gift: Designer jewelry.

Hot

Vie For your next special occasion, think Vie—where you’ll discover flirty-to-sophisticated dresses and separates by Nightcap, Mark & James, Bailey 44 and Alice + Olivia. 9660 Clayton Rd., Ladue, 314.997.0124. Hot Gift: Alice + Olivia dresses. Women’s Closet Exchange Contemporary pieces neighbor to-die-for designer styles, like Armani blazers and Louis Vuitton handbags, at this nationally-recognized upscale resale shop. 11575 Gravois Rd., Sunset Hills, 314.842.8405. Hot Gift: Designer jewlery and handbags.

Presents With Presence When it comes to giving gifts that are both personal and creative, Brigid Pritchard knows best. ALIVE’s senior account executive recently started

82 ALIVE STL december 2011

Ziezo Whatever your clothing allowance, there's something for you at Ziezo, where you’ll encounter an unexpected mix of hip clothing, shoes and accessories by Colcci, Free People and Jeffrey Campbell. 6394 Delmar

A TASTE OF LUXURIE This full-service boutique specializes in high-end designer apparel, shoes and accessories for men and women. It also offers personal shopping, makeover consultations, accessory pairing and exclusive shopping parties. 364 N. Boyle, Central West End. 314.534.3800.

Jewelry From fashion pieces to future heirlooms, these STL jewelry shops are the go-to for pearls, pendants and extravagant extras. Albarré Jewelry For watches and an impressive selection of fine jewelry that runs the gamut, including custom pieces designed in-house, shop Albarré. 9711 Clayton Rd., Ladue, 314.997.1707. Hot Gift: Animal and insect rings with black and white diamonds. Charm Boutique Though Charm’s specialty is jewelry, it also boasts accessories by Midwest designers Iram-Inal, Scarlett Garnet and Squasht by Les. 7312 Manchester Rd., Maplewood, 314.588.8203. Hot Gift: Vienna necklace by Urbanite Jewelry. Clarkson Jewelers Shop custom jewelry and designer pieces by such of-the-moment brands as David Yurman, Hearts on Fire and Patek Philippe. 1306

the gift-giving website B-Giving.com, which helps give inspiration and ideas for perfect gifts, even for the hardestto-please people on your list. We asked Brigid for some hard-and-fast tips to giving thoughtful, unique presents every time. Creative combinations are key when it comes to gift-giving. There’s nothing wrong with a basic gift card, but you

Clarkson Clayton Center, West County, 636.227.2006. Hot Gift: Breitling watches. CODI, The Boutique Owner Courtney Hopson designs and creates the store's "funky for day, fancy for night" jewelry. Head to CODI for small accessories and special gifts for yourself or a friend. 9218 Clayton Rd., Ladue, 314.692.2634; 1164 Town & Country Crossing Dr., Town & Country, 636.227.2634. Hot Gift: Gold bug bangles in red, turquoise or gray. Curt Parker Curt Parker prides itself on a stellar selection of diamond gemstone and platinum pieces by awardwinning jewelry designers. 10192 Conway Rd., Ladue, 314.989.9909. Hot Gift: Sterling silver bangle bracelets. DÉCOR Whether you’re looking for a full interior design showroom or high-end one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces, this third-generation interior/jewelry store has you covered. 13476 Olive Blvd., Chesterfield. 314.434.4022. Hot Gift: Meira T jewelry. Diamond & Jewelry Brokers Family-owned Diamond & Jewelry Brokers has been a Master IJO Jeweler for more than three decades, and is the area’s go-to for incomparable diamonds and gemstones. 473 Lafayette Center, West County, 636.391.6622. Hot Gift: Combination pieces of silver mixed with yellow gold. The Diamond Shop Whether you’d rather shop a hot designer’s line or have a celebinspired piece custom designed, think The Diamond Shop. 12 N. Central Ave., Clayton, 314.721.2210. Hot Gift: Tahitian black pearls.

can personalize it by pairing it with something else. For instance, give a gift card for cooking classes with a recipe box; a wine tasting with a bottle of vino; a gift card for a spa day with lotions and beauty products the recipient can use for at-home pampering. Think outside the box. Consider packaging your gift in some way other

alivemag.com

Photo by Kylie Schweiss.

Saks Fifth Avenue St. Louis shoppers’ exclusive resource for Chanel handbags, Jimmy Choo shoes, Versace for men and more, Saks also houses luxury cosmetics and home décor. 1 Plaza Frontenac, Frontenac,

Codi

Elleard Heffern Home to jewelry by the industry’s most respected names, plus vintage estate jewelry at attractive prices and hot new lines like Grupo Corpo by H. Stern. 101 S. Hanley Rd., Clayton, 314.863.8820. Hot Gift: Ivanka Trump’s thin black diamond hoops. Genovese Jewelers Coveted fine jewelry for him and her, including watches by Michele and Tag Heuer, rings by Simon G and bold bracelets by Chad Allison. 12460 Olive Blvd., Creve Coeur, 314.878.6203. Hot Gift: Combination of black and white diamonds. Hannoush Jewelers A direct importer of diamonds and gemstones, with impressive prices and pieces by the likes of Pandora. 218 Chesterfield Mall, Chesterfield, 636.536.2906. Hot Gift: Pandora bracelets. Hufford’s Jewelry Shop designer jewelry, bridal jewelry and estate jewelry—plus unexpected gifts, including fine silver. 10413 Clayton Rd., Frontenac, 314.993.1444. Hot Gift: Sterling silver and enamel jewelry by Belle Étoile. Mavrik Fine Jewelry From fashion jewelry by such lines as

Michal Negrin to stunning custom engagement rings, you’ll find yourself coveting a variety of pieces upon any visit to Mavrík. 200 S. Kirkwood Rd., Kirkwood, 314.909.6818. Hot Gift: Ice watches.

YOUR STYLE. OUR EXPERTISE

The Silver Lady Sterling silver jewelry is the specialty at The Silver Lady, which houses bold cuffs, chunky rings, chokers, pendants and more. 4736 McPherson Ave., Central West End, 314.367.7587; 6364 Delmar Blvd., The Loop, 314.727.0704. Hot Gift: Somers basket-weave leather bracelet with sterling silver. Simon’s Jewelers Visit Simon's for an impressive watch selection (including Cartier, Breitling and Panerai) and fine jewelry by Marco Bicego and other luxury designers. 8141 Maryland Ave., Clayton, 314.725.8888. Hot Gift: Forevermark ring. Summit Jewelers Award-winning design and a spectacular selection of colored gemstones and diamonds for every occasion—from engagement rings to earrings, pendants and bracelets. 7821 Big Bend Blvd., Webster Groves, 314.962.1400. Hot Gift: 14-karat yellow gold, amethyst and citrine neckpiece, with diamond accents.

than the classic wrapping-paper-

Stocking stuffers don’t have

and-bow approach. Baskets are

to be generic and predictable.

great for collecting small items

Fill those stockings with

around a theme—for instance,

personalized trinkets that won’t

a cornucopia of local foods, like

end up stuffing trash cans in a

Ted Drewes, Billy Goat chips and

few days. For the golf-lover, try

Schlafly beer. Or, for the fitness-

monogrammed golf balls. For

lover, zip a new workout outfit

the wine aficionado, something

and a gift card to her favorite

crafty to make with his or her

yoga class into a cool gym bag.

cork collection.

Gifts, Holiday decor and design services Visit us soon at 9753 Clayton Rd St. Louis Missouri 63124 www.savvyladue.com 314-432-7289

And, check us out on facebook!! alivemag.com

Ask the Expert Kaitlyn Wiesner, the personal stylist manager at Nordstrom, says it best: “There’s a piece of jewelry for everyone, and it always makes you feel good.” We picked Wiesner’s brain for tips on buying gifts with a bling factor for nearly anyone on your list. First and foremost, she says, think about who you are buying for. More is More. For a big, loud personality, look for jewelry that is big, colorful and sparkly. Try a colorful necklace, a bold statement watch or a chunky cocktail ring. Alexis Bittar, Michael Kors and Kate Spade are great brands to get you started in the opulent style. Dainty Does It. Someone more introverted may prefer smaller, daintier pieces. Styles with mixed metals are great for this personality type—they’re trendy and outside the box, but not too flashy. Simon Sebbag, Judith Jack and Bony Levy are good brands to look out for. Watch Yourself. For guys, a really great watch is a bigticket item that exudes a lot of personality. Big-faced TAG watches are “timeless, with a trendy flair.” If the guy you’re buying for wears a different watch every day, you may want to go for a fashion watch from a brand like Diesel.

84 ALIVE STL december 2011

Uncommon Threads Locally-designed and crafted with innovative metal practices, Uncommon Threads jewelry includes everything from modern earrings to chunky cuffs. Uncommonthreadsjewelry.com. Hot Gift: Twig earrings in oxidized sterling with freshwater pearls. Vinciguerra From classic timepieces by Movado and Seiko to dazzling engagement rings, Vinciguerra’s designer roster includes A. Jaffe, Cherie Dori and Simon G. 735 N. New Ballas, Creve Coeur, 314.991.1490; 701 Market St., Downtown, 314.421.1488. Hot Gift: Rose gold pieces. Ylang-Ylang With jewelry at a variety of price points, you’ll want to gift the store’s Ice watches and custom pendants, but keep the Erica Courtney bangles and Jude Frances rings for your own jewelry box. 81 Plaza Frontenac, Frontenac, 314.567.5555. Hot Gift: Todd Reed raw diamonds or wrap bracelets by Sydney Evan.

EYEWEAR Shop these eyewear experts for the perfect of-the-moment frames. Erker's See and be seen in the latest eyewear by the hottest brands; Erker's houses cutting-edge eyeglasses, sunglasses and more. 9717 Clayton Rd., Ladue, 314.997.0002; 908 Olive St., Downtown, 314.241.9410. Hot Gift: David Yurman glasses. The Eye Bar An upscale eyewear shop with exclusive designer lines, shoppers can order sunglasses and specs by Oliver Peoples, Face a Face and Chanel. 401 N. Euclid Ave., Central West End, 314.367.1848. Hot Gift: La Loop eyewear accessories. EYE ROC With thousands of fresh designers, this CWE eyewear boutique caters to fashionistas who know that eyewear isn’t just for medical use. 28 Maryland

Plaza, Central West End. 314.361.9900. Hot Gift: Eye Roc glasses. Eyewearhaus If glasses are your signature, shop Eyewearhaus, where you’ll find the pair that’s perfectly you, whether it's the retro shapes or the super-fresh frames by l.a. Eyeworks, Oakley and Cazal. 745 N. New Ballas Rd., Creve Coeur, 314.567.7423. Hot Gift: Theo-Theo handmade eyewear.

HOME DÉCOR Whether you’re outfitting a living room or loft or love unique knickknacks, shop these abode-focused showrooms for the best in home décor. Amini’s The area’s headquarters for game room musts, including pool tables, game tables and home bar furniture. 17377 Chesterfield Airport Rd., Chesterfield, 636.537.9200. Hot Gift: Arcade Classics, featuring 60 games in one. Atom Known for unique and timeless interior design, Atom is an onlineonly retailer that caters to retail customers, interior designers and architects, in addition to offering interior design services. atom-designs.com, 314.621.4141. Hot Gift: Fontella rose pillows. Centro Modern Furnishings Focused on bringing world-class modern design to the Midwest market, Centro offers furniture and lighting collections by B&B Italia, Cassina and Wittmann, to name a few. 4727 McPherson Ave., Central West End, 314.454.0111. Hot Gift: Alvar Aalto vase, designed 1936. The Designing Block Two floors of colorful chaise lounges, throw pillows, lamps, mirrors and rugs, from funky to fabulous. 7735 Clayton Rd., Clayton, 314.721.4224. Hot Gift: Light-up reading glasses. Good Works Known for contemporary and stylish furniture and accessories at affordable prices, Good Works can update a room or outfit your entire abode with beds, dressers, mirrors and more. 6323 Delmar Blvd., The Loop, 314.726.2233. Hot Gift: Salvador Dali clock. Niche Blending creativity with distinctive home furnishings, Niche houses

furnishings by Gus, Herman Miller and Bernhardt Interiors, plus an experienced interior design team. 300 N. Broadway, Downtown, 314.621.8131. Hot Gift: Grizzly throw. Rothschild’s Antiques With a large selection of antiques, fine art and home furnishings in a variety of styles and prices, one could spend hours perusing this multi-level shop. 398 N. Euclid Ave., Central West End, 314.361.4870. Hot Gift: Cow-skin rugs. Savvy Surroundings Whether you're looking to furnish your living room or re-do your bathroom, Savvy Surroundings has everything you need to create a stunning space. 9753 Clayton Rd., Clayton, 314.432.7289. Hot Gift: Artwork that creates a focal point.

SPECIALTY STORES Shop these specialty stores for those hard-to-buy-for giftees, from athlete to bookworm to mother-to-be. 9 Months in Style Where expectant fashionistas stock up on everything from Paige Premium Denim to formal dresses. 11243 Manchester Rd., Kirkwood, 314.835.9935. Hot Gift: Ingrid and Isabel leggings. 10denza With an eclectic selection of clothing, accessories, gadgets, gear, music and books, 10denza is a one-stop-shop for anything trendy and modern. 44 Maryland Plaza, Central West End, 314.361.1010. Hot Gift: Q. West totes and laptop sleeves from iSkin. Apple of Your Eye Specializing in personalized gifts— perfect for holidays, weddings, showers or birthdays. 20 N. Gore Ave., Webster Groves, 314.968.9698. Hot Gift: Upholstered chair shaped like a baseball mitt. Big Shark Bicycle Co. All things needed for the cycling enthusiast, from accessories and apparel to best-brand bicycles for every age and level. 6133 Delmar Blvd., The Loop, 314.862.1188. Hot Gift: Bikase smartphone holder. alivemag.com

Photo by Kylie Schweiss.

TIFFANY & CO. Shop covet-worthy diamond engagement rings, statement jewelry, watches and more by such prolific designers as Paloma Picasso, Frank Gehry and Elsa Peretti. 64 Plaza Frontenac, Frontenac, 314.692.2255. Hot Gift: Holiday charms.

Sparkle WE PUT THE

BACK IN CHRISTMAS

We Buy Gold, Diamonds, Platinum, Colored Stones and Watches. We Repair Jewelry and All Watches, Including Rolex. 9711 Clayton Road • Ladue, MO 63124 314.997.1707 • www.ALBARRE.com

The Diamond Source

Giving back is always in style.

9739 manchester road saint louis, mo 314.918.0575 shoprung.org Left Bank Books

Sign Up For STYLE Get St. Louis shopping news delivered straight to your inbox each Thursday from ALIVE’s fashion insider. Subscribe at alivemag.com/newsletters.

Byron Cade Step into Byron Cade for memorable fine gifts for all occasions, including silver and home accessories by Vera Wang and Waterford. 7901 Clayton Rd., Clayton, 314.721.4701. Hot Gift: Juliska candles.

Phoenix Rising Eclectic gifts, including handcrafted jewelry, unique home accessories, quirky gift cards, bath products, toys and more. 6331 Delmar Blvd., The Loop, 314.862.0609. Hot Gift: Indigo collection by Dana Kellin.

Cheap Trx Visit Cheap Trx for sexy clothing, edgy accessories, piercings, tattoos or any of a number of adults-only items. 3211 S. Grand Blvd., South City, 314.664.4011. Hot Gift: Merman/ mermaid ornaments by December Diamonds.

Q Boutique Located at the World Chess Hall of Fame in the CWE, Q Boutique invites you to peruse an eclectic selection vintage jewelry, home décor, children’s games, specialty gifts and more. 4652 Maryland Ave., Central West End, 314.367.9243 ext. 109. Hot Gift: Trina Turk Palm Springs block pillow.

LB Design From wine glasses and platters to totes and baby accessories, find a great gift and have it personalized by the experts at LB Design. lbdesignstl.com, 314.494.5052. Hot Gift: Monogrammed towels. Left Bank Books Shop an impressive array of books— ranging from children’s titles to political discourse—and hard-to-find magazines. 399 N. Euclid Ave., Central West End, 314.367.6731; 321 N. 10th St., Downtown, 314.436.3049. Hot Gift: “Wreck the Halls: Cake Wrecks Gets ‘Festive’” by Jen Yates. MacroSun International Truly unique clothing, jewelry, ritual art, masks, traditional wares and textiles from traditional artists and craftspeople around the world. 1310 Washington Ave., Downtown, 314.421.6400; 6273 Delmar Blvd., The Loop, 314.726.6222. Hot Gift: Om three-metal Mantra bracelets.

THE Service Bureau Everyone appreciates receiving a “thank you” note or invitation in their mailbox—especially if it’s a beautiful card from The Service Bureau. 9773 Clayton Rd., Ladue, 314.991.1104. Hot Gift: Note card sets by Karen Adams. TigerLily From jewelry to serving wear to wearables for Baby, shop Tigerlily for gifts galore. Have them monogrammed in-house for an extra-special touch. 7328 Manchester Rd., Maplewood, 314.646.0061. Hot Gift: Exotic butterflies in acrylic shadow boxes. Vellum You’re sure to find the perfect announcements, personal stationery and invitations at Vellum. 120 W. Monroe Ave., Kirkwood, 314.909.1640. Hot Gift: Monogrammed iPod cover.

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We have given our profits back to the community since 1930.

2011 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE DESIGNS BY

JORGE REVILLA T&B ICE WATCH AND MORE

Perfect gifts for treasured moments Free personalization available 9773 Clayton Rd. • 314.991.1104 • StlServiceBureau.com

314.909.6818 | 200 South Kirkwood1Road | www.MavrikJewelry.com

ABOUT US

Brilliant

401 N. Euclid • 314.367.1848 theeyebar.net

314.909.6818 | 200 South Kirkwood Road | www.MavrikJewelry.com

(bril-yent)

adj. Very bright and shiny; sparkling; radiant; extraordinarily intelligent. n. A precious gem, especially a diamond, finely cut in any of various forms with numerous facets.

Mavrik

(mahv-reek), Hebrew, Adj. - brilliant

At Mavrik, we believe your jewelry should be as intimately unique as your love. If you want to buy diamond jewelry in St. Louis, you have many choices. If you want a custom creation that brings your dreams to brilliant life, there’s really only one choice - Mavrik Fine Jewelry. The artists at Mavrik will craft diamond jewelry that is yours alone. Your diamond is waiting at Mavrik.

FINE

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Don’t wait until the last minute... Our hand crafted jewelry is only availalbe in limited quantities. Be the first to place your holiday order before anyone else. Call us now!

314.909.6818

Now Voyager Fashion travels back to more romantic timesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;as poet blouses, swing coats and Hepburn-reminiscent pants return as top trends. Photography + Art Direction by Attilio Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Agostino Styling by Jill Manoff Model: Gwen Carrier for Mother Model Management, mothermodelmanagement.com Makeup by Lisa Kalz, lisakalz.com Hair by Kevyn Idoux, kolorssalon.com

88 ALIVE STL december 2011

alivemag.com

Plaid fad

Knitted Dove coat available at Blush, Kirkwood, 314.965.4411. Shoshanna dress available at Cha, Ladue, 314.993.8080. Beret available at Mary Janeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Central West End, 314.367.8867. Vintage Kodak Duaflex IV camera available at La Roserie, St. Charles, 314.265.4942.

White Noise Audrey dress available at Paperdolls, Kirkwood, 314.965.3655. Vintage scarf available at TFA The Future Antiques, St. Louis Hills, 314.865.1552. Headband available at Ivy Hill, Central West End, 314.367.7004.

90 ALIVE STL december 2011

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Oh My Mod Shoshanna dress and necklace available at Ivy Hill, Central West End, 314.367.7004.

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december 2011 ALIVE STL 91

Swingin' in the Rain BCBGMaxAzria coat available at BCBGMaxAzria, Plaza Frontenac, 314.432.6166. Theme dress available at Alixandra Collections, Ladue, 314.997.2360. Vintage umbrella available at La Roserie, St. Charles, 314.265.4942.

92 ALIVE STL december 2011

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Pretty in Prints Daniel Rainn blouse available at Meka, Chesterfield, 636.536.6300. Velvet Heart pants available at Apricot Lane, Chesterfield Mall, 636.537.1161. Bangles available at Alixandra Collections, Ladue, 314.997.2360. Photo assistant: Caitlin Ward. Fashion assistant: Jordan Dunahue. Special thanks to Cheri La Rose (La Roserie boutique, St. Charles) and the Marquette High School marching band.

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december 2011 ALIVE STL 93

Cheese-ology Macaroni & Cheese 6602 Delmar Blvd., THE LOOP 314.863.6365 • cheese-ology.com

ALIVE’s best bets for winter dining

Bringing the science of savory Macaroni and Cheese to you in a cast iron skillet, this cheesy comfort food will wow your taste buds and soothe your soul. Bill Courtney, owner and chef, brings 15 specialty dishes, including gluten-free and vegan options as well as his favorite: a Bacon, Bacon dish! Warm up this winter with the limited-edition Chili Mac, perfect for all families and friends. Whatever your mood or the weather, enjoy the creamy, sweet and salty sensations of Cheese-ology, allowing you to experience a brand new take on your favorite childhood dish.

Mango Peruvian Cuisine 1101 Lucas Ave. • 314.621.9993 • mangoperu.com Most Popular DISHES APPETIZER Ceviche Mixto: Tilapia, shrimp, octopus and mussels coldcured in fresh squeezed citrus juices with Peruvian spices, onions and garlic. Entrée Lomo Fino: Grilled beef tenderloin filet with roasted aji panca, red wine and sundried tomato reduction. DESSERT Plantantitos Dulces: Fried sweet plantains surround a scoop of vanilla ice cream topped with fresh ground cinnamon and caramel sauce. Tucked away in the Washington Avenue Loft District, Mango provides a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, serving thoughtful, rustic comfort food to satisfy not only your physical hunger, but emotional hunger as well. All items on the menu are made with authentic spices directly from Peru that will envelop you in comfort and warmth. The Lomo Saltado, a traditional Peruvian recipe and one of Mango’s signatures, has an earthy, savory flavor that will dazzle your senses. The true essence of comfort food, the Lomo Saltado is made with sirloin steak strips, flash sautéed with garlic, tomatoes, onions and Peruvian peppers, and then tossed with steak fries to soak up the juices. Whichever dish you choose, Mango’s staff will work to ensure that it warms you from the inside out. Be sure to catch happy hour for $5 small plates, Mon.-Thurs., from 3-6pm and 9pm-close, or Fri. and Sat., from 3-6pm and 10pm-close. Also, don’t miss the pre-theater menu this month, which will feature three courses for $20 Mon.-Sat., 4-6pm. ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION

St. Louis Restaurant Guide Log on to alivemag.com for an expanded list of recommended spots to dine, drink and dance. key $ Entrees average under $10 $$ Entrees $10–$17 $$$ Entrees $18+

Central West End/ The Grove Bixby’s Located on the second floor of the Missouri History Museum with breathtaking views of Forest Park, Bixby’s manages to preserve the past while boldly embracing the future. Lunch served daily; Sun. brunch. 5700 Lindell Blvd., 314.361.7313. $$ BRASSERIE BY NICHE Niche owner Gerard Craft brings his take on casual French dining to the CWE with an evolving menu of French bistro fare, an impressive beer list and classic desserts. Dinner served Mon.-Sun. 4580 Laclede Ave., 314.454.0600. $$

Come Get Your Greek On! Happy Hour Monday-Friday, 4-7p Sunday, 9 pm-close Mondays 4pm-close

Monday - Saturday Dining 11 am - 11 pm Bar until 1 am Sunday Dining 4 pm - 10 pm Bar until midnight

1/2 off wine bottles Tuesdays 4pm-close

1/2 price Mojitos

Wednesdays 4pm-close

$1 Stag Beer

Private Rooms Available

630 North and South, University City, MO 63130

314.863.3511 | momos-stl.com

ST. LOUIS DINING GUIDE

SEARCH RESTAURANTS, CAFES, BRUNCH SPOTS AND MORE ALIVEMAG.COM/RESTAURANTS

Chi This trendy Japanese sushi bar has some of the best St. Louis sushi rolls around; the Lemon Drop roll is a must-try. Lunch and dinner served Mon.-Sat. 4 N. Euclid Ave., 314.367.2209. $ CrÊpes: etc. This upscale patisserie takes a modern twist on a French classic, serving both sweet and savory crêpes as well as a variety of homemade pastries, soups and sandwiches. Breakfast and lunch served daily; dinner served Fri.-Sat. 52 Maryland Plaza, 314.367.2200. $ the Drunken Fish This stylish sushi lounge with an extensive Japanese menu offers everything from tuna tataki to traditional rolls. Arrive late night for DJs and karaoke. Lunch and dinner served daily. 1 Maryland Plaza, 314.367.4222. $$ Herbie’s Vintage 72 A beloved classic is reborn under the direction of the Monarch duo with contemporary American cuisine in an elegant atmosphere. Dinner served daily; Sat. and Sun. brunch. 405 N. Euclid Ave., 314.769.9595. $$ Pi Creative cocktails, homemade desserts and, of course, delicious San Fran-style pizza. Lunch and dinner served daily. 400 N. Euclid Ave., 314.367.4300. $$ Salt Chef Wes Johnson’s adventurous menu is served in the unique ambiance of a former Central West End mansion.

Hot List 2011 Winner Late-night dining Outdoor seating Opened in the last 12 months

Dinner served Wed.-Mon.; Sat. and Sun. brunch. 4356 Lindell Blvd., 314.932.5787. $$ SANCTUARIA Fresh, Pan-Latin inspired tapas at this Grove destination include the signature “wild tapas” paired with handcrafted cocktails. Dinner served Tues.-Sun. 4198 Manchester Ave., 314.535.9700. $$ Scape american bistro Chef Eric Kelly has crafted an innovative and unique menu of American cuisine at this contemporary CWE bistro. Dinner served Tues.-Sun.; Sun. brunch. 48 Maryland Plaza, 314.361.7227. $$$ scottish arms Authentic Scottish fare includes the best-selling lamb burger and Celtic crisps. Sample from the famous single malt scotch list and 22 local and import beers on tap. Lunch served Mon.-Fri.; dinner served daily; Sun. brunch. 8 South Sarah St., 314.535.0551. $$ SubZero More than 300 international labels of vodka, a wonderfully large list of drinks, sushi and a build-your-own burger menu are available in the expanded area. Dinner served daily. 308 N. Euclid Ave., 314.367.1200. $$

Midtown/Downtown AL’S RESTAURANT Known for steaks and seafood, Al’s is operated by three generations of one St. Louis family. Dinner served Tues.-Sat. 1200 N. First St., 314.421.6399. $$$ BRIDGE TAP HOUSE and WINE BAR A large craft beer and wine selection, as well as a full menu with tons of house-made touches. Lunch and dinner served daily. 1004 Locust St., 314.241.8141. $$ BURGER BAR Celeb chef Hubert Keller offers build-your-own gourmet burgers with a large list of breads, meats and condiments to choose from. Lunch and dinner served daily. 999 N. 2nd St., 314.881.7580. $$

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Café Ventana This coffeehouse has an extensive food selection, including sandwiches, beignets, pastries and coffee. Open daily. 3919 W. Pine Blvd., 314.531.7500. $ Chuy arzola’s The relaxed atmosphere pairs perfectly with the Tex-Mex cuisine, with spicy fajitas and chilled margaritas to complete the vibe. Lunch and dinner served daily. 3701 Lindell Blvd., 314.644.4430. $ CIELO Enjoy Italian cuisine with Cielo’s fresh, evolving menu. A dynamic beverage list and Downtown’s most stunning views top off the experience. Breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily. 999 N. 2nd St., 314.881.2105 $$$ The Fountain on Locust Home of the ice cream martini, as well as freshly made appetizers, entrées, fine ice creams and retro cocktails. The hand-painted Art Deco interior is a must-see. Lunch and dinner served Tues.-Sun. 3037 Locust St., 314.535.7800. $ Harry’s Downtown Restaurant & Bar This eclectic bistro is understatedly refined, serving a wide range of cuisine. Dinner served daily; Sun. brunch. 2144 Market St., 314.421.6969. $$ House of Savoy This casually elegant restaurant features delicious and authentic Italian cuisine prepared by executive chef Paola Bugli. Dinner served Wed.-Sun. 999 N. 2nd St., 314.881.7830. $$$ LOLA This Downtown hotspot offers a large collection of unique cocktails, French and American cuisine. Don’t miss the recently opened Lola Absinthe Bar. Open daily; Sat. and Sun. brunch. 500 N. 14th St., 314.621.7277. $$ Lucas Park Grille The seasonal menu with fresh ingredients features soups, salads and New American entrées. Lunch and dinner served daily; Sat. and Sun. brunch. 1234 Washington Ave., 314.241.7770. $$$ Mike Shannon’s This 20-year-old St. Louis landmark serves upscale American cuisine. Stop by “The Outfield” beer garden for some pre- or post-game spirits. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner served daily. 620 Market St., 314.421.1540. $$ Mosaic This modern fusion restaurant offers an array of cold and hot tapas. Lunch and dinner served Mon-Sat.; Sat. brunch. 1001 Washington Ave., 314.621.6001. $$ Prime 1000 Wash Ave.’s hotspot serves high-end steak in a chic setting. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner Mon.-Sat. 1000 Washington Ave., 314.241.1000. $$$ rosalita’s cantina Enjoy Mexican favorites like fajitas, tacos and margaritas at this happening Tex-Mex restaurant. Lunch alivemag.com

and dinner served daily. 1235 Washington Ave., 314.621.2700. $ Shula’s 347 Grill Located in Roberts Tower, Shula’s 347 Grill has an energetic atmosphere with quality burgers and steaks to match. Lunch and dinner served daily. 411 N. 8th St., 314.241.7267. $$$ TONY’S Tony’s has long been a St. Louis institution known for its attentive service and flawless cuisine. Dinner served Mon.-Sat. 410 Market St., 314.231.7007. $$$ VIto’s Known for its exceptional Italian cuisine and pizza, this spot serves classic Sicilian-style pizza, fresh pastas, calzones and more. Lunch served Mon.-Fri.; dinner served Mon.-Sun. 3515 Lindell Blvd., 314.534.8486. $$

ON THE ROOFTOP AT CLARK & 10TH

DOWNTOWN

LIVE DJ ON FRIDAY & SATURDAY NIGHTS!

OPEN ON FRIDAY & SATURDAY CARDINAL HOME GAMES * AT 5:30 PM

Clayton/Ladue/ Richmond Heights Araka This gorgeous restaurant in Clayton’s The Crescent features delicious globally-inspired cuisine. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner Mon.-Sat. 131 Carondelet Plaza, 314.725.6777. $$$ BARcelona A see-and-be-seen hot spot to nosh on Spanish tapas. Lunch and dinner served daily. 34 N. Central Ave., 314.863.9909. $$ BOCCI BAR Bocci offers a taste of northern Italy with contemporary flair, served in a rustic, cozy interior. Lunch served Mon.-Fri.; dinner served Mon.-Sat. 16 N. Central Ave. 314.932.1040. $$

COME JOIN US AT OUR

CLAYTON GARDEN PATIO! OPEN DAILY! CLOSED SUNDAYS

101 SOUTH HANLEY ROAD • CLAYTON, MISSOURI 63105

COASTAL BISTRO & BAR Recently evolved from Mosaic Bistro, Coastal offers a brand new menu of fresh oysters and low country cuisine. Stop by during happy hour for fantastic oyster shooters. Lunch and dinner served Mon.-Sat. 14 N. Central Ave., 314.932.7377. $$$ THE CROSSING This Clayton gem features a seasonal menu of farm-to-table fare. Lunch served Mon.-Fri.; dinner served Mon.-Sat. 7823 Forsyth Blvd. 314.721.7375. $$$ Demun Oyster Bar Flying in fresh oysters from the west coast daily, Demun Oyster Bar is the ultimate destination for seafood enthusiasts. Lunch served Sat.; dinner served daily. 740 Demun Ave., 314.725.0322. $$ Houlihan’s Great burgers and other finger foods, and one of the best happy hour specials in the city. Lunch and dinner served daily. 1221 Strassner Dr., 314.863.9116. $$ J.Buck’s A Clayton staple for business lunches and happy hours, with flavorful classic offerings like pizza, pasta, burgers and baby back ribs. Lunch and dinner served Mon.-Sat. 101 S. Hanley Rd.,

Intro Assessment $45 Explore your unique needs and prepare for Pilates or Yoga classes, all at a great rate! 55 minutes of one-on-one attention

Take $5 off any session with the studio! Latest schedule and updates on classes/workshops/instructors: PILATESYOGASTUDIO.COM No Membership Fees – Pay as You Play

Pilates + Yoga + Kettlebell + Fitness + Conditioning 1015 McCausland Ave. (Next to the Hi-Pointe Theatre) 314.781.5050

314.725.4700. $$$ Kaldi’s Offers plenty of options, like flavored coffees and premium blends. Breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily. 700 DeMun Ave., 314.727.9955; 187 Carondelet Plaza, 314.726.2900. $ LESTER’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL Every sports-lover’s dream, with TVs at every post, top-notch bar fare and Mon.-Fri. happy hour from 3-6pm. Open daily. Multiple locations. lestersrestaurant. com. $$ Mad Tomato Chef Vito Racanelli Jr.’s newest eatery features a seasonal, farm-to-table menu, a selection of Italian wines, desserts and pastries. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner Tues.-Sat. 8000 Carondelet Ave., 314.932.5733. $$

314.645.9919. $$

314.241.7799. $$

CITY DINER Travel back to the ’60s at this retro American diner, serving comfort foods and brunch favorites. Breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily. 3139 S. Grand Blvd., 314.772.6100; 541 N. Grand Blvd., 314.533.7500. $

Soulard’s Restaurant Delicious contemporary American and Southern cuisine and grilled-to-perfection steaks await you at this historic Soulard restaurant and bar. Lunch and dinner served Mon.-Sat. 1731 S. 7th St., 314.241.7956. $$$

Gian-Tony’s Owner Tony Catarinicchia brings recipes straight from Sicily to St. Louis with fresh ingredients from the on-site garden. Dinner served daily. 5356 Daggett Ave., 314.772.4893. $$

SqWires A seasonal menu features fresh interpretations of American classics. Lunch Tues.-Fri.; dinner Tues.-Sat.; Sat. and Sun. brunch 1415 S. 18th St., 314.865.3522. $$$

LORENZO’S TRATTORIA For a different taste on The Hill, try Lorenzo’s northern Italian cuisine with contemporary flavors. Lunch served Tues.-Fri.; dinner served Tues.Sun. 1933 Edwards St., 314.773.2223. $$

The Stable This brew house, distillery and pizzeria features bacon-wrapped dates, housemade grinders and an array of pizzas and pastas. Lunch and dinner served Tues.-Sun. 1821 Cherokee St., 314.932.1222. $

MANGIA ITALIANO Casual cuisine in an intimate interior, with live music several nights a week. Lunch and dinner served daily. 3145 S. Grand Blvd., 314.664.8585. $$

University City/ The Loop

The ROYALE This tavern-style restaurant pays homage to its St. Louis home with drinks named for different aspects of the city. Lunch and dinner served daily. 3132 S. Kingshighway Blvd., 314.772.3600. $$

Lafayette Square/ Benton Park/Soulard

MISO ON MERAMEC One of St. Louis’ most popular sushi spots, Miso is as famed for its Pan-Asian food as it is for its lounge. Dinner served Tues.-Sun. 16 N. Meramec Ave., 314.863.7888. $$

BAILEYS’ CHOCOLATE BAR Offering a mix of savory and sweet items, this hotspot serves desserts such as Baileys’ Chocolate Brownie and bread pudding. Open daily. 1915 Park Ave., 314.241.8100. $

Océano St. Louis’ premier seafood bistro is an elegant addition to the Clayton dining scene. Lunch and dinner served daily. 44 N. Brentwood Blvd., 314.721.9400. $$$

blues city deli A charming turn-ofthe-century storefront with an expansive menu of sandwiches, salads and Po’ Boys. Lunch served Mon.-Sat. 2438 McNair Ave., 314.773.8225. $

Roxane This cozy tapas-style spot is home to a bohemian atmosphere and an eclectic menu. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner served Mon.-Sat. 12 N. Meramec Ave., 314.721.7700. $$

Franco This cool bistro serves country French fare with a modern twist. Lunch served Mon.-Fri.; dinner served Mon.-Sat. 1535 S. 8th St., 314.436.2500. $$$

VINO NADOZ WINE BAR Nadoz Café owner Steven Becker brings an intimate destination with an international wine experience and savory Americanfusion cuisine. Dinner served Tues.-Sat. 16 The Blvd., 314.726.0400. $$

South City/ Hampton/The Hill Anthonino’s Taverna Anthonino’s brings Greek flavor to The Hill with gyros and stuffed olives, as well as Italian staples like chicken parmesan. Lunch and dinner served Mon-Sat. 2225 Macklind Ave., 314.773.4455. $$ Aya Sofia Add a dash of culture to your diet with exotic Turkish and Mediterranean delights. Lunch served Tues.-Fri., dinner served Tues.-Sun. 6671 Chippewa St., 98 ALIVE STL december 2011

the Mud house Fresh-roasted coffee, sandwiches, soups and pastries all served in the heart of the Cherokee-Lemp Historic District. Open daily. 2101 Cherokee St., 314.776.6599. $ NICHE This award-winning neighborhood bistro offers a fabulous menu of American cuisine. Dinner served daily. 1831 Sidney St., 314.773.7755. $$$ Park Avenue Coffee Enjoy Chauvin coffee, bagels, house-made muffins, smoothies and a selection of more than 70 gooey butter cakes. Open daily. 1919 Park Ave., 314.621.4020. $ PW Pizza Focusing on fresh, local and seasonal ingredients, PW Pizza offers classic pies as well as innovative recipes, like the Creole Connection. Lunch and dinner served daily. 2017 Chouteau Ave.,

Blueberry Hill Joe Edwards’ flagship restaurant is as synonymous with St. Louis as the Arch—it’s a landmark spot not to be missed. Lunch and dinner served daily. 6504 Delmar Blvd., 314.727.4444. $ Blue Ocean Sushi This contemporary Japanese restaurant serves all-you-can-eat sushi and à la carte items, such as chicken teriyaki and tempura. Lunch and dinner served daily. 6335 Delmar Blvd., 314.726.6477. $ Cheese-ology For your inner child, this new twist on traditional macaroni and cheese offers a wide range of dishes to suit every grown-up craving. Open for lunch and dinner Tues.-Sun. 6602 Delmar Blvd., 314.863.6365. $ ECLIPSE This restaurant in the Moonrise Hotel features cosmic décor and a creative American menu with delicious twists. The Rooftop Terrace Bar offers a dramatic view of The Loop and out-of-this-world cocktails. Open daily. 6177 Delmar Blvd., 314.726.2222. $$$ HIRO Sushi HIRO Sushi brings the flavors of the izakaya explosion to the city with unique ingredients and beautiful presentation. Lunch served Mon.-Fri.; dinner served daily. 609 Eastgate Ave., 314.721.9168. $ MoMos Mediterranean tapas and a festive, lively atmosphere make this beloved St. Louis spot a must-visit. Lunch Mon.-Sat.; dinner daily. 630 North and South Rd., 314.863.3511. $$

Kirkwood/Maplewood/ Webster Groves boogaloo A vibrant Caribbeaninspired restaurant featuring tapas, a wide selection of smoked meats and a full bar with refreshing mojitos. Lunch Mon.-Fri.;

dinner Mon.-Sat. 7344 Manchester Rd., 314.645.4803. $$ Home wine kitchen Seasonal American comfort food and wine pairings, including chicken confit and rosemary waffles with maple balsamic gravy. Lunch and dinner Wed.-Mon.; Sun. brunch. 7322 Manchester Rd., 314.802.7676. $$$ Monarch The newly revamped interior at this casual restaurant perfectly complements the Southern-inspired fare. Dinner served Mon.-Sat. 7401 Manchester Rd., 314.644.3995. $$$ Ranoush Indulge in classic Middle Eastern cuisine like shawarma, falafel and tabbouleh using the freshest ingredients—a truly authentic Syrian experience in the heart of Kirkwood. Lunch and dinner served daily. 200 N. Kirkwood Rd., 314.984.8899. $$ Twin Oak: Wood Fired Fare Taste the specialty wood-fired pizzas at this new eatery, with a one-of-a-kind oven that brings out the natural flavors of toppings like seasonal veggies and roasted chorizo. Lunch and dinner served daily. 1201 Strassner Dr. 314.644.2772. $$ the block This restaurant, butcher shop and bar boasts a farm-to-table concept, with contemporary American fare like mussels, pork chops, braised pork steak and Missouri trout. Dinner served Mon.-Sat. 146 W. Lockwood Ave. 314.918.7900. $$ TRATTORIA BRANICA Formal Italian dining and a chic wine bar make this the perfect destination for a special occasion or vino sipping session. Lunch served Mon.-Fri.; dinner served daily. Multiple locations; trattoriabranica.com, 314.909.7575. $$$ Water street Excelling in specialty and vintage cocktails, Water Street offers an intriguing menu with dishes like plum and apple coated meatballs and chicken liver pâté with pistachios. Dinner served Tues.-Sat. 7268 Manchester Rd., 314.646.8355. $$

Creve Coeur/Maryland Heights/West County/ Chesterfield annie gunn’s Known for heartwarming dishes and fresh seasonal specials, Annie Gunn’s offers unforgettable steaks, seafood, soups and salads. Lunch and dinner served Tues.-Sun. 16806 Chesterfield Airport Rd., 636.532.7684. $$$

Log on to alivemag.com for our searchable, comprehensive directory of St. Louis restaurants, bars, nightclubs, bakeries, coffeehouses and more. alivemag.com

St. Louis’ Best ALL ON ONE BLOCK Tapas Restaurant Tapas all day ~ Sangira all night 34 N. Central Ave. • 314.863.9909 • Voted Best small places by Sauce and RFT Magazines • Voted best place for girls night, date night and outside dining • Lunch and dinner 7 days a week

www.barcelonatapas.com

• Happy Hour food and drinks M-F 4-6:30

NEWEST ADDITIONS

Modern Italian Cuisine 16 N. Central Ave. • 314.932.1040 • Voted Best New Restaurant by St. Louis Magazine

14 N. Central Ave. • 314.932.7377 • Newest Addition to Central Ave. Restaurant Row

• Lunch Mon-Fri and Dinner Mon-Sat

• Featuring our Raw Bar with oysters, crab and oyster shots

• Happy Hour food and drinks M-F 4-6:30

• Lunch and Dinner Mon-Sat.

• Outside Dining and Private Dining!

• Happy Hour food and drinks Monday-Friday 4-6:30

www.boccibar.com

www.coastlbistrocom

new year’s eve guide C EL E B RAT E 2 0 1 2 WI T H T HE ESSENT IALS : G ood friends, great parties, and of c ourse, th e b ubbly! O ur NEW YEAR ’S EVE GUIDE h as a h ot spot for everyone, so ge t ready to ring in th e new year wi th st yl e!

Celebrate New Year’s eve at the sCottish arms

6pm Hogmanay Champagne Toast and Countdown to the bells in Scotland DJ playing all evening plus Bagpipes and Auld Sang Syne at the bells Drink and Shot Specials from 6pm 4 Course Prix Fixe Farm Fresh Menu - $40 reservations recommended Free Champagne Toast and Party favors at midnight No cover charge!!! 8 SOUTH SARAH ST. • 314.535.0551 THESCOTTISHARMS.COM

ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION

new yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eve guide

ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION

new year’s eve guide

New Year’s Eve

Enjoy a four-course meal with Champagne Toast $120 per couple Call 314.241.7770 for details and reservations

4200 MANCHESTER AVE. ST. LoUIS, M0 63110

ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION

just john presents

THE

ENDt OF THE WORLD A NEW YEARS EVE EVENT

12-31-11 Hosted by

Dei t a Pepsi ............ D J Ruben_B

............

spinning all night long

cash and prize giveaways 4112 MANCHESTER AVE - (314)371-1333

scene

Scene in St. Louis:

Saint Louis Fashion Week 104 ALIVE STL december 2011

Watch it! Scan the tag with your smartphone for video highlights from Fashion Week. Visit http://gettag.mobi to get the free app and gain access to bonus content.

alivemag.com

Apricot Lane

Ivy Hill

Ann Taylor, Plaza Frontenac

Sole & Blues

Epiphany Boutique

Rebecca Taylor, Saks Fifth Avenue

Garic Stephens, Project:Design!

The Eye Bar

Macyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Meka Boutique

alivemag.caom

DECEMBER 2011 ALIVE STL 105

scene

Exposure Saint Louis Fashion Week Kickoff Party October 7

The Place: Mandarin Lounge

The Party: Saint Louis Fashion Week 2011, presented Brown Shoe, started off with a bang at Mandarin Lounge. A sophisticated and stylish crowd flocked to the CWE hotspot to celebrate the start of the highly anticipated fashion-filled week. Saint Louis Fashion Week models, stylists and producers greeted guests, who were excited to mix and mingle with countless movers and shakers in the local fashion world. The crowd enjoyed 901 Tequila cocktails and bottle service while taking in the hot beats of DJ Big D, and danced the night away in celebration of fashion at its best. Liz Muir & Ameliesa Rofkahr

Photos by Kevin Shee/ALIVE Scene Team. For more photos, log on to alivemag.com/photos.

DJ Big D Meghan Caldwell, Tiffany Salazar & Victoria Wiggins Mary Clarke, Jeff Clarke, Stephen Garnette, Attilio Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Agostino & Jill Manoff

Sarah Radcliff & Carla Giggo

Holly Mccamn & Megan Hummel

Matt Fry, Tony Rosendo & Britt Hagarty

106 ALIVE STL december 2011

alivemag.com

Brown Shoe Presents Project:Design! October 11

THE PLACE: 2720 Cherokee

THE PARTY: The first night of Saint Louis Fashion Week got off to a stylish start at Project:Design!, presented by Brown Shoe and produced by Rock Uniform. “Project Runway” Season 9 contestant and ALIVE’s October cover girl Laura Kathleen Planck hosted the competition, which featured the exclusive lines of six designer finalists who battled it out on the runway for this year’s ultimate Project:Design! title: KellyChristine, Rebel Tart, Haus Designs, BMDesigns, CWCouture and Garic Stephens. The looks were accented by shoes from Brown Shoe, whose latest styles were also featured in the VIP room, along with jewelry and other fashion items by Bella Style, Bluebird Denim, Vauje Jewels and Stella & Dot. Guests mingled over sushi from The Drunken Fish and drinks by 901 Tequila, Budweiser Select, Select 55 and Stella Artois, while judges Darin Slyman, Sarah Garlich, Rick Gebler, Debra Bass, A.J. Thouvenot, Jane Zachritz and Jill Manoff deliberated over the winning designer. The Garic Stephens line of men’s and women’s fashions, designed by the talented Stephen Curd, was the judges’ proclaimed winner. Curd won a consultation and development of a fashion-forward social media presence to showcase his line, created by 963Collective; post-fashion coverage in ALIVE Magazine and a Trunk Show hosted by Cha Boutique. This year’s Peoples’ Choice Award winner, decided via live Twitter votes, went to Rebel Tart, designed by Cindy Brown, who walked away with a $250 credit from Fabric.com. Photos by Becca Francis, Nick Vineyard, Kevin Shee and Lily Liu/ALIVE Scene Team. For more photos, log on to alivemag. com/photos.

Bill Donius, Jay Perez, Greg Lukeman & Justin Scarbrough

Laura Kathleen Planck

Diana Thomas & Geoff Green

alivemag.com 107 ALIVE STL august 2011

Stephen Curd

DECEMBER 2011 ALIVE STL 107

scene

Macy’s Presents Find Your Magic October 12

THE PLACE: Macy’s Saint Louis Galleria

THE PARTY: The second night of Saint Louis Fashion Week at Macy’s was alive with fabulous, ready-to-wear looks. The more than 300 stylish attendees of the runway show, presented by Macy’s, instantly created an environment that was lively and full of energy in support of St. Louis Children’s Hospital, the charity of choice for the event. The night got off to a running start as guests mingled and enjoyed appetizers provided by Vito’s Sicilian Pizzeria & Ristorante and sipped tasty 901 Tequila cocktails, crafted by the mixology experts at Salt. Music sang from the speakers and lights lit up the room as the models confidently strutted their looks down the runway, wearing stylish, hip and must-have designs from Bar III, INC International Concepts, Alfani, Rachel Roy, Michael Kors, Kensie, Andrew Charles, Miss Me, Coach, Jones 24/7 and many more. The night wrapped up with exclusive shopping time at Macy’s with access to a personal shopper and special prices specifically for the night’s event. One hundred percent of all ticket sales went directly to Children’s Hospital, and guests who donated $5 to the charity received a $10 gift card to Macy’s. Photos by Emma Birge-Osborne, Laila Schu and Kylie Schweiss/ALIVE Scene Team. For more photos, log on to alivemag.com/photos.

Tyler Bryant & Robert Schmidt

Susie Graham, Lauren Graham, Megan Stephens & Amy Wellington

Kristin ECS Dinga & Shannon Ward LIVEMag.com Display Ads Dimensions solution Format Size Limit Animated Ad rmats Accepted Leaderboard 468 pixels wide x 60 xels tall 72 dpi RGB JPG or GIF 150kb F (150kb limit) or SWF (300kb limit) Tile 300 pixels wide x 250 pixels tall 72 108 ALIVE 108 STL ALIVE august STL december 2011 i RGB JPG2011 or GIF 150kb GIF (150kb limit) SWF (300kb limit)

Sandy Graham & Bailey Graham

alivemag.com

Saks Fifth Avenue Presents Fall 2011 Rebecca Taylor October 13

THE PLACE: Saks Fifth Avenue, Plaza Frontenac

THE PARTY: A who’s who crowd of St. Louis VIPs, fashion enthusiasts and charity supporters gathered at Saks Fifth Avenue for the much anticipated Rebecca Taylor runway show and appearance, hosted in support of Food Outreach. It didn’t take long for the first-floor designer shopping areas of Saks to fill with droves of stylish St. Louisans, who enjoyed 901 Tequila cocktails created by the mix masters of Salt, as well as Budweiser Select, Select 55 and Stella Artois beers and Little Black Dress wine, as they shopped the latest fall looks. Passed hors d’oeuvres kept guests’ taste buds tantalized to start the evening, as they awaited their turn on the red carpet, or their chance to explore one of the high-end Plaza Motors models of Land Rover, Cadillac, Audi and Porsche on display. But, the fabulous Rebecca Taylor fashion show was, of course, the main attraction. Everyone’s eyes stayed glued to the runway as Taylor’s signature fun and flirty looks were shown. The 500-strong audience couldn’t get enough of the smart blend of casual-chic and high-fashion styles, which had the same class and sophistication that Rebecca Taylor herself exuded in her appearance after the show. The gracious Taylor greeted fans, who enjoyed shopping an extended selection of Rebecca Taylor looks brought in especially for the event by Saks.. Photos by Emma Birge-Osborne, Lily Liu and Kylie Schweiss/ALIVE Scene Team. For more photos, log on to alivemag.com/photos. Sam Foxman & Nicole Benoist

Jeff Clarke & Laura Kathleen Planck

Ehren Dorsey & Caitlin Ward Pete Ferretti & Logan Trentadue

alivemag.com

DECEMBER 2011 ALIVE STL 109

scene

Plaza Frontenac Presents Indulge October 14

THE PLACE: Plaza Frontenac

THE PARTY: Night four of Saint Louis Fashion Week at Plaza Frontenac got off to a fashionable start as guests arrived for a 901 Tequila and Anheuser-Busch cocktail hour and noshed on delectable bites, courtesy of Brio Tuscan Grille, while anxiously awaiting the start of the Indulge runway show, featuring collections from Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, BCBG MaxAzria, Chico’s, Eileen Fisher, Graphic Traffic, J.Jill, Lucky Brand Jeans, lululemon athletica and Talbots. The looks presented by the 10 luxury brands kept it current with stylish and sophisticated collections that hit on all of the season’s hottest trends. Many prominent looks featured clean silhouettes in natural shades and muted prints with metallic accents. Rich fabrics such as leather, satin and fur were in full force—as were exhilarating pops of bright colors like cobalt blue, rust and bright orange. Outfits were polished off with an array of stylish shoes, several from Brown Shoe, makeup and hair by Stonewater Spa and Salon and accesories from Ylang-Ylang Fine Jewelry. The show even included trendy luggage styles from Tumi for fashionable jet-setters. After the show, guests shopped, took photos on the red carpet and discussed their favorite looks. One hundred percent of ticket sales benefited the Friends of Wings BLC Pediatric Hospice and Palliative Care program.

Photos by Laila Schu, Kylie Schweiss & Nick Vineyard/ALIVE Scene Team. For more photos, log on to alivemag.com/photos.

Hannah Buehler & Allison McCoy

Joyce Bryan & Julie Grossman Alice An,Nolen Sarah Sayavong & Tanya An Alexis Zotos & Chelsea

110 ALIVE STL december 2011

alivemag.com

Brown Shoe Presents Liquid Style October 15

THE PLACE: HoteLumière in Downtown St. Louis

THE PARTY: Saint Louis Fashion Week 2011 ended with a bang with the Liquid Style finale, a showcase of chic St. Louis boutiques, presented by Brown Shoe, the Partnership for Downtown St. Louis and ALIVE Magazine. Guests arrived early to dine on delicious appetizers provided by Gregory’s Creative Cuisine and learn more about Fashion Group International, the featured charity of the evening. The open bar once again featured delicious 901 Tequila cocktails, Budweiser Select, Select 55 and Stella Artois. The red carpet was flooded with fashion enthusiasts who worked it in front of the cameras before taking their seats for the show. ALIVE’s Executive Editor Jennifer Dulin Wiley and Fashion Week Director Jill Manoff kicked off the runway show—set in the center court of HoteLumière with a stunning waterfall backdrop. Apricot Lane, Epiphany Boutique, The Eye Bar, Ivy Hill, Meka Boutique, and Sole & Blues all showed spectacular collections that were perfect for the fall and winter seasons. Textures like fur and fringe, and movement—in long, draped tunics and ponchos—ruled the runway, proving to be must-have staples for the cold weather season. Brown Shoe featured stunning kicks from Carlos by Carlos Santana, Fergie, Franco Sarto, Naturalizer, Naya, Sam Edelman, Via Spiga and others to complement the runway looks. St. Louis designers, including Laura Kathleen Planck, Michael Drummond and Ola Hawatmeh mingled with friends and fans after the show, as did each of the boutique owners, celebrating well into the night in honor of a wildly successful Saint Louis Fashion Week.

Photos by Laila Schu & Kevin Shee/ALIVE Scene Team. For more photos, log on to alivemag.com/photos. Godfried Addae, Kasia McMullen & Mimi Harris

Carrie Benson, Sarah Bruno, Meghan Myers & Katie Picarella

Heather Wilkins, Katherine Luking & Maria Chusak Footwear by Brown Shoe

111 alivemag.com ALIVE STL august 2011

Tanisha Thomas & Walter Nichols

DECEMBER 2011 ALIVE STL 111

Archetypes

Kathleen Finneran An interview with Kathleen Finneran, author of “The TenderLand: A Family Love Story” and a Writer in Residence at Washington University.

What is your current mood or state of mind? Distracted. What makes you happy? Spending time with my nieces and nephews, especially my youngest nephew. What is your idea of misery? Being surrounded by constant chatter. What did you eat for breakfast today? A whole-wheat bagel with peanut butter and a banana. What’s one word that describes you? Calm. What trait do you value most in others? Curiosity. What’s your favorite occupation? For myself: reading. In the world: an architect who can write, in addition to designing and building. Who would you most like to be? A writer with a second book. What’s your favorite color? Green.

What’s your favorite food? Pizza. What food do you like the least? Eggs with runny yolks. If you could have dinner with anyone (dead or alive), who would it be? My younger brother who died early in life; it would be nice to sit across the table from him again. What vice do you most tolerate in others? Capricious shopping. What talent do you wish you had? Imagination, so I could write fiction. Who are your favorite authors? Susan Orlean and John McPhee for nonfiction, and Marilynne Robinson for fiction. What excites you? Really good writing. What do you consider a turnoff? Self-absorption. What do you love? Quiet. What do you hate? Pettiness. What are you most looking forward to? A poetry reading on March 5, when my friend Jane Mead will be reading as part of the Observable Reading Series. What is one thing you wish would happen? Hillary Clinton runs for president again. What’s something interesting that you just learned? That the sweetness of an orange is determined, in part, by where the orange is located on the tree. What’s something you want to learn? Practical things: plumbing, electrical wiring and the inner workings of a house.

ALIVE MAGAZINE | December 2011

What is your personal motto? Less is less; more is more; enough is enough. In another life, you’d be: A carpenter. What is your current obsession? Elephant seal colonies. What is your favorite word? I like the word browse. It has nice possibilities. What is your least favorite word? Reconnoiter. What’s on your “bucket list”? Finding a way to live most of my life on the shore of Lake Michigan. Your hidden talent: I plan fantastic trips. Personal hero: The painter, Agnes Martin. If you could have a conversation with your younger self, what would you say? I would tell myself to want more, do more and see more.

Interview by Elizabeth Tucker PHOTOGRAPH BY WESLEY LAW

‘Archetypes’ are off-the-cuff interviews with St. Louis’ most inspiring, well-known personalities based on the 19th century Parisian parlor game known as the Proust Questionnaire.