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Photo by www.memoriesareforever.com
www.schnucks.com Š2011 Schnucks
by D'Marco Farr
Yes, you read that right. I – a one-time Super Bowl champ whose knees had gotten so bad that I dreaded walking up a flight of stairs – got the O.K. from my orthopedist to resume whatever activities I choose. That includes playing football again.
Let me tell you what else I like about 20 Minutes to Fitness. It's “come as you are.” You can do this work out in a shirt and tie if you want. And it costs less than hiring a traditional personal trainer.
The truth is, I think I'll stick with my day job at ESPN radio for now. Still, I'm living proof that, no matter what condition you're in, you can STILL get your body back into “playing shape.” And I can tell you how. It's called 20 Minutes to Fitness. 20 Minutes to Fitness makes it possible to achieve in one 20-minute session a week what might require three hours or more hours a week at the gym. It cuts the time it takes to exercise by nearly 90%!
Don’t believe it? You can watch a video of me doing the workout at 20minutestofitness.com or 101espn.com. To any of you skeptics out there who say you can’t possibly get fit in only 20 minutes a week, I have only three words to say: Just try it.
How is that possible? Each session, you work out on physical therapy equipment that is specially calibrated for your level of strength and fitness. So it's not just for former pro athletes. People in their 70s and 80s work out here. Competitive athletes in their teens work out here. A personal coach stays with you the entire time. Without that coach's encouragement, you'd quit before you should. Still, it takes only two to three minutes per machine to reach the point of muscle failure. Then, your trainer convinces you to hold on for an additional 10 seconds. This is where the benefit of this approach really kicks in.
D’Marco Farr Former defensive tackle for the St. Louis Rams
During your “time off” during the week, your muscle is rebuilding and growing stronger. Sound too good to be true? It's not. Everything you do at 20 Minutes to Fitness is medically based. So it's effective AND safe. In fact, so many DOCTORS work out here, they call it The Doctor’s Workout. For more information on 20 Minutes to Fitness, call its studios in Clayton (314-863-7836) or Chesterfield (636-536-1504) or visit 20MinutesToFitness.com.
Contents Ja n ua ry
86
59 features
ALIVE Bride Wedding news, trends, tips and more to provide inspiration for your big day.
74 80
Real Weddings Three St. Louis couples’ unique interpretations of “I Do.” Country Strong The country wedding trend is taking St. Louis by the horns.
86 fashion
A Walk to Remember Traditional wedding gowns leave an unforgettable impression.
96
stl now 18
7 things you must do this month.
20 C ALENDAR Find a “Way to Heaven,” get down with The Beatles and more. 24 ST L NOW Two comedians ditch standup to deliver farm-fresh, locally-grown produce straight to your door. 26 Hot spot Blondie’s brings the best of both worlds to Downtown St. Louis. 28 Spirits Warm up this winter with a hot toddy. 30 Buzz People Magazine Hero Award winner Judge Jimmie Edwards on helping the troubled youth of St. Louis. 32 Job Envy Fine jewelry dealer and designer Igal Alon is a girl’s best friend. 34 Column The single girl’s survival guide to wedding madness.
style
ALIVE Wedding Guide
150+ caterers, venues, bridal boutiques and more.
36 style Tuxedos aren’t just for men anymore. 38 s tyle Corduroys swoosh in as a staple in the stylish man’s closet.
80
self 48 Mi nd & Body Manage stress with these five easy tips from a local stress expert and author.
community 54 G ET INVOLVED Say “I Do” to these organizations to help local couples in need. 56 SOCIAL SCENE Photos from the Denim & Diamonds “Black & White” Gala and the Bell Bottom Ball.
resources 108 R ESTAURANT GUIDE The best places in town to eat, drink and dance.
scene 112 S CENE IN ST. LOUIS Party pics from ALIVE’s Most Wanted Party, Men of Style Event, Ice Ball and Le Cirque, An Unravel Event. 120 a rchetypes A conversation with Carl Phillips, writer and professor at Washington University.
40 acce ssories Fashion’s latest take on the penny loafer.
Update: In our December, 2011 issue, the cover photo taken by Brian Higbee should have been credited to Brian Higbee/ CPi Syndication. ALIVE, January 2012, Volume 9, Issue 1 (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.
4 ALIVE STL JANUARY 2012
alivemag.com
Left photo by Jennifer Silverberg; middle photo by Attilio D’Agostino; right photo by MNC Photography.
26
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
THE RITUAL Step Nº 9 : The Bestowal
The perfect Stella Artois is not only poured. It is served. A ritual that for centuries has left patrons the world over watching and wanting. And this, their refreshing reward. So before you say cheers, expect to hear a few of them.
StellaArtois.com
Always Enjoy Responsibly.
© 2011 Anheuser-Busch InBev S.A.,
Stella Artois® Beer, Imported by Import Brands Alliance, St. Louis, MO
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
Kate Allen, Katie Davis, Cristy Miller, Pamela Raymond, Christopher Reilly, Matt Sorrell, Jennifer Wells Art
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HAPPY HOUR START THE WEEKEND RIGHT
FRIDAY, JANUARY 20 5PM - 7PM Culinaria Wine Bar
(9th and Olive Street, Downtown) 2 hours free parking in garage with grocery store purchase (5pm or after)
$5 SUGGESTED DONATION
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Please RSVP to SipsInTheCity@alivemag.com 100% of proceeds will benefit Food Outreach
GET YOUR FIX WITH
from the publisher
I
love this time of year. More specifically, I love New Year’s resolutions. I realize I may be a bit out of the norm on this one, but there’s something about wiping the slate clean, starting over and making a plan that makes life a little more interesting. My New Year’s resolutions have traditionally had two recurring themes: fitness and education. As with all resolutions, I go in with the best of intentions, and being the over-achieving type that I am, my goals tend to be a little ambitious. For instance, one year I vowed to read one book a week for the entire year; I think I made it just about three weeks. Another year, I committed to eliminating sugar, dairy and alcohol from my diet completely—another failure. As I grow older (and hopefully wiser), my New Year’s resolutions aren’t getting any milder (2011 was to finish an Ironman, which I did), but I’m certainly gaining the pause necessary to put together realistic game plans. Our game plan at ALIVE this year is also ambitious and exciting. We’re ramping up our distribution to better serve you, our readers. Over the next few months, you’ll be able to find ALIVE on more newsstands and in more targeted drop-spots, including Whole Foods! If you’re ever in a bind and can’t find the latest magazine, we just launched a new tool on our website that lets you search our distribution by neighborhood and zip code (just go to alivemag.com/distribution). We’re also introducing a few new events into the mix in 2012, including our 10-year Anniversary party in April, a new bridal event in July, and a Supper Club is in the works for you foodies—stay tuned! One New Year’s resolution that I’ve been hearing a lot of buzz around is the GO! St. Louis Marathon on April 15. GO! has become one of the largest marathons in the Midwest. Jeff Trammel and team have done a fantastic job at integrating this event into the fabric of St. Louis. Their efforts go way beyond putting on the marathon to include corporate wellness initiatives and run/reading programs in our schools. ALIVE already has a team organized to tackle this beast of a run course in April. Join us by registering today at gostlouis.org, and get yourself a training plan in place. Here’s to wiping the slate clean, starting over and making a plan for a more interesting 2012!
Photo by Wesley Law, shot on location at The Lawrence Group.
Get out and enjoy St. Louis-
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on the calendar Sips in the City Friday, Jan. 20
ALIVE Bride Thursday, Jan. 26
Pistons & Pearls Saturday, Jan. 28
Head to Culinaria in support of Food Outreach for the January edition of this popular happy hour series.
Don’t miss St. Louis’ premier bridal event and fashion show, featuring the top wedding vendors in town.
Attend this fabulous auto show and gala, featuring cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and live entertainment.
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from the editor
Finding ways to keep you trendy, cultured and inspired.
parentpop Lisa Bertrand on parenting in the age of products and pop culture.
thegreenery Longtime green blogger Jeff McIntire-Strasburg digs into the sustainability scene—in St. Louis and beyond.
W
hen it comes to weddings, I think Steve Martin said it best in one of my all-time favorite wedding movies, “Father of the Bride.” And I quote, “I used to think a wedding was a simple affair. Boy and girl meet. They fall in love. He buys a ring. She buys a dress. They say, ‘I do.’ I was wrong. That’s ‘getting married.’ A wedding is an entirely different proposition.” For those of you who’ve ever planned a wedding—or even been in the vicinity of someone planning said blessed event—you know exactly what he’s talking about.
Planning a wedding, while exciting (and an experience that I absolutely enjoyed), is an enormous undertaking. From the venue to the flowers to the dress, there are infinite decisions to be made and even more tasks to juggle. I certainly never thought finding the perfect wedding gown would mean searching nearly every bridal boutique in the city. Then again, I never thought it would be 98 degrees on Oct. 6, the day of my wedding, either. And, although none of us can control the weather, we can plan (or try to plan) for most everything else. That’s what this issue is all about. There are an abundance of resources at St. Louis brides’ fingertips that make the madness of planning a wedding a little more manageable. And, I’m thrilled that so many local brides-to-be consider our annual Bridal Issue one of them. Now in its sixth year, ALIVE’s Bridal Issue provides stylish inspiration to STL brides and grooms, as well as access to trusted local vendors who can make their visions a reality. Our Wedding Guide (p.96-104) details 150+ top local vendors, photographers, caterers, cakeries and more—and that’s just the beginning. Our editorial team searched high and low to find the most spectacular wedding gowns and accessories of the season (check them out in A Walk to Remember, p.86), and we were sure to throw in plenty of on-trend bridesmaid and groomsmen looks as well (p.62 and p.64). Still, none of this beats the fabulously diverse inspiration provided by our very own St. Louis couples. In the incredible Real Weddings featured this month (p.74-79), you’ll meet a couple who created nearly all of their décor from scratch and vintage finds, a bride who had two ceremonies and three (yes, three) dresses, and a couple whose love of cooking inspired a truly unique culinary feast with lots of cultural infusions. Even more local brides are featured in my favorite piece in this issue, Country Strong (p.80), which provides real-life tips and inspiration from STL couples who’ve successfully pulled off one of the biggest wedding trends of the year. Reading their stories made me want to plan my own wedding all over again…for a brief moment, anyway. But, in the end, I’ll take my 98-degree October wedding, because— when you really think about it—nothing else matters but saying “I Do.”
Photo by Wesley Law, shot on location at The Lawrence Group.
BLOG POSSE
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.
alivemag.com
Now Leasing the Brand New
Ballpark Lofts
First month free Modern upgrades Two blocks from Busch Stadium Membership to Solara Health Club & Spa included Secured parking
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contributors
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Carmen Troesser
Kate Allen
Although there is no wedding in Carmen Troesser’s future, she found the bridesmaid dresses (p.62) very tempting when shooting them in the studio for the Bridal Issue. Anyone who is planning a wedding and missing a bridesmaid or two is welcome to invite her to be part of the wedding party if one of ALIVE’s picks is in play. Find more of Carmen’s work at carmentroesser.com.
Kate Allen knows weddings. Whether she’s attending one, planning one or covering one for ALIVE, she knows the ins and outs of “I Dos.” So, there wasn’t a better subject matter for her to cover in her first column, F.Y.BrIde (p.68). Kate also walks St. Louis brides-to-be through the secrets to achieving the season’s hottest wedding trend in Country Strong (p.80).
Sara Swaty Roger
Jennifer Wells
Sara Swaty Roger is a St. Louis-based photographer who returned to her favorite hometown after graduating from Rochester Institute of Technology in New York. Her India and Gender photography projects have been exhibited in St. Louis and Saint Genevieve, and she is currently working on a book about gender and identity. She was happy to photograph the founders of NeighborGood Foods (p.24) for ALIVE this month. View more of her work at saraswatyphoto.com.
When taking on the spectacular Real Wedding stories (p.74-79) for this issue, Jennifer Wells delved into every detail of each bride’s special day. From the flowers to the amazing venues, every bride had a unique story to tell. Jennifer truly enjoyed talking nuptials with the stylish newlyweds, but her favorite part was reminiscing about her own walk down the aisle at the St. Louis Art Museum in 2005.
alivemag.com
Carmen Troesser photographed by Jacob Henry Derfel; Kate Allen photographed by Ben Rieder; Self-portrait by Sara Swaty Roger; Self-portrait by Jennifer Wells.
Subscribe at alivemag.com/newsletters.
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this month on
ALIVEMag.com > Join Fashion Director Jill Manoff as she takes you behind the scenes of St. Louis’ premier ALIVE Bride Fashion Show held at Lumen on Jan. 26 and presented by Fleur De Lis Bridal Boutique and Bella Bridesmaid. Find out how Jill picks the stunning looks and accessories for this bride-perfect show, and Watch it! hear from Scan the tag the bridal exwith your smartperts themphone to view selves on the the video. Visit top trends http://gettag.mobi they’re seeto get the free ing for 2012. app and gain Purchase access to bonus tickets for content. the event at alivemag.com.
ALIVE TV ALIVE Bride Fashion Show Preview
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A Day In The Life— Neighborgood Foods
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14 ALIVE STL JANUARY 2012
From chic venues to fabulous photographers to the best St. Louis caterers, our searchable guide is the only resource a bride needs to plan the perfect big day. [alivemag.com/weddings]
restaurant guide
Before planning your next night out, check our searchable St. Louis restaurant guide and find a place by cuisine, neighborhood or name. [alivemag.com/restaurants]
> See the first in a series of “Day in the Life” videos of St. Louisans featured in ALIVE. Get an inside look at the local NeighborGood Foods operation featured on p.24 of this issue, and see what it really takes to run a local/organic food delivery operation.
Find us on Facebook
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ALIVE’s searchable shopping guide has all the best fashion boutiques, specialty shops and stores to satisfy every shopping addiction. [alivemag.com/fashion]
Follow us on Twitter @ALIVEMagSTL
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NeighborGood Foods photo by Sara Swaty Roger.
ALIVE TV:
online guides
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access
advertising | promotion | events | opportunities
Macy's Zootini Fashion Event November 3 Animal-lovers and fashionistas came to Macy’s to kick off the Saint Louis Zoo’s annual Zootini event with an absolutely wild fashion show. Guests mingled and enjoyed delicious cocktails and appetizers from Gregory’s Creative Cuisine, massages by MassageLuXe and makeup tips from Macy’s Dior makeup counter. The main event was an animal-inspired fashion show, featuring the latest trends in animal prints from Macy’s. Party-goers also had the chance to buy tickets for this year’s Zootini, which took place Nov. 19 in The Living World at the Saint Louis Zoo. Photos by Annie Hobbs/Alive Scene Team. For more photos, log on to alivemag.com/photos.
Emerald Gates, Morgan Tennell, Gabrielle Crayton, Millicent Tennell & Kierra Henryhand
Jermal and Rachel Seward & Ann and Lance Scharkey
Taryn Willis, Austin Dennis & Grace Wachter
Brenda Wirthlin & Kelly Flemming
Fernanda Rebello & Kelly Howard
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Out in the City November 10 LGBT professionals and friends gathered at Mandarin Lounge for Out in the City, the quarterly happy hour event sponsored by Bud Light, ALIVE Magazine and Vital Voice. Guests enjoyed complimentary Bud Light, appetizers and live music. Proceeds from the event went to the LGBT Center of St. Louis, which provides services and resources to the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and ally communities of the city. Photos by Emilie Graul/Alive Scene Team. For more photos, log on to alivemag.com/photos Logan Griesemer & Matt Kearney
Dr. Gregory Neff & Kelly Green
Mikey Berner & Derral Archibald
Ashley Lewis & Alison Green
Janae Johnson & James Walker Moon
CAM Nights November 17 Young professionals filled the Front Room at the Contemporary Art Museum for CAM Nights, the new monthly happy hour series. Attendees mixed and mingled while enjoying great drink specials and beats by DJ Ra Cailum in the chic gallery setting, with special guests from the young professional organization, Metropolis St. Louis. Two cash bars offered $1 Magic Hat, Blue Moon, Miller and Coors beers, as well as $2 Purus Vodka cocktails. 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 by Annie Hobbs/Alive Scene Team. For more photos, log on to alivemag.com/photos.
Daniel Lee & Kristin Roberts
Molly McCann, Meredith Nowicke & Beth Barry
LaShone Gibson & Duane Williams
Lauren Zoanetti & Sam Foxman
stl now
7 Things yo u m u st do this month
2
Get Jacked Up
Jack’s Mannequin starts the New Year right by kicking off its 2012 tour in St. Louis at The Pageant on Jan. 19. See the alt-rock band perform hits from its newest album, “People and Things,” which debuted at the top of Billboard’s Alternative Albums Chart—along with old favorites like “Dark Blue” and “Holiday From Real.” Opening acts include Jukebox the Ghost and Allen Stone. For tickets and more info, visit thepageant.com.
3
1
Save the Date
Join ALIVE and the most fashionable brides of St. Louis at a fun happy-hour-meets-bridalexpo event at Lumen Private Event Space on Jan. 26. This annual event invites the city’s most popular vendors to display the latest in wedding trends, including a fashion show featuring bridal styles from Fleur De Lis Bridal Boutique and Bella Bridesmaid. Brides-to-be will plan their dream weddings in style while sipping Pearl Wedding Cake cocktails and noshing on delicious appetizers.
For tickets and more info, visit alivemag.com.
Let it Be
Come together, Beatles fans, as “RAIN” takes the stage at The Fox, Jan. 20-21. The internationally-acclaimed tribute band will perform songs recorded in the studio by The Beatles, but never before performed in front of an audience, along with stunning note-for-note tributes to classics like “I Want to Hold Your Hand” and “Hey Jude.” This concert will take you back to what seems like just “Yesterday.” For tickets and more info, visit fabulousfox.com.
4
Sing Out Loud
Male vocalist of the year and five-time CMA nominee Blake Shelton brings country and raw talent to the stage at the Chaifetz Arena on Jan. 13, with opening acts Dia Frampton and Justin Moore. Don’t miss your chance to be swept away by this country superstar as he performs his biggest hits, including “Honey Bee” and “All About Tonight.”
5
Sustain Yourself
Join the St. Louis Speakers Series in welcoming Michael Pollan, a sustainable food activist and bestselling author of “In Defense of Food,” “The Omnivore’s Dilemma,” “The Botany of Desire” and “Food Rules.” Also featured in the documentary “Food, Inc.,” Pollan will visit Powell Hall as part of a series of speakers featuring distinguished and celebrated personalities who have enlightened and inspired audiences everywhere. For tickets and more info, visit stlouisspeakersseries.org.
18 ALIVE STL JANUARY 2012
6
Be Impressionable
See the acclaimed musical “Sunday in the Park with George” at The Repertory Theatre, Jan. 4-29. Inspired by the life and work of 19th-century Impressionist painter Georges Seurat and some of his famous works, including “A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte,” this moving musical explores the complexities of life. Paired with a soaring and insightful score by Stephen Sondheim, this show is sure to make an impression. For tickets and more info, visit repstl.org.
7
Go Full-Throttle
Kick it into high gear at Pistons and Pearls: Auto Show Charity Gala at America's Center on Jan. 28. This annual auto show and gala includes a performance by Gerry McCambridge (also known as "The Mentalist"), an after-party at The Pepper Lounge and more. Proceeds will benefit the 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). For tickets and more info, visit saintlouisautoshow.com
alivemag.com
Top left photo by Attilio D’Agostino; "RAIN" photo courtesy of The Fox.
For tickets and more info, visit thechaifetzarena.com.
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Hot Pick
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The Civil Wars
Calendar: January SUZY BOGGUSS Jan. 27, Sheldon Concert Hall
GREGG ALLMAN Jan. 3, The Pageant
Acclaimed folk singer Suzy Bogguss puts a new spin on old favorites like “Erie Canal” and “Shenandoah” with her clear, strong vocals. Tickets at metrotix.com (3648 Washington Blvd., Grand Center).
Known best for his place in the blues-rock Allman Brothers Band, Gregg Allman tours with his solo album, “Low Country Blues.” Tickets at ticketmaster.com (6161 Delmar Blvd., The Loop). THE CIVIL WARS Jan. 15, The Pageant
John Paul White and Joy Williams perform their wonderfully catchy acoustic tunes. Tickets at ticketmaster.com (6161 Delmar Blvd., The Loop). RAVI COLTRANE Jan. 18-21, Jazz at the Bistro
The son of legendary saxophonist John Coltrane brings his jazz quartet to St. Louis. Tickets at metrotix.com (3536 Washington Ave., Grand Center). BRANFORD MARSALIS AND JOEY CALDERAZZO Jan. 22, Sheldon Concert Hall
The Grammy award-winning saxophonist, who has played with legends like Dizzy Gillespie and Miles Davis, shows off his chops alongside friend and pianist, Joey Calderazzo. Tickets at metrotix.com (3648 Washington Blvd., Grand Center). 20 ALIVE STL JANUARY 2012
TCHAIKOVSKY 4 Jan. 27-29, Powell Symphony Hall
Experience the elaborate orchestral beauty of Tchaikovsky’s “Symphony No. 4” as Russian conductor Vassily Sinaisky takes the stand with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. Tickets at stlsymphony.org (718 N. Grand Blvd., Grand Center).
their mission to define family. Tickets at fabulousfox. com (527 N. Grand Blvd., Grand Center). THE SEAFARER Jan. 6-15, Union Avenue Christian Church
Conor McPherson’s Irish fable covers redemption, love and a game of cards with higher stakes than any of the players expected. Tickets at westendplayers.org (733 Union Blvd., DeBaliviere Place). CINDERBOTTOM Jan. 12-21, Black Cat Theatre
Kids and families will love this off-beat retelling of the original Cinderella fairytale. Tickets at eventbrite.com (2810 Sutton Blvd., Maplewood).
THE LEMONHEADS Jan. 28, The Old Rock House
A STEADY RAIN Jan. 18-Feb. 5, The Repertory Theatre
Formed as an alt-punk band in 1986, this duo has been on break exploring various genres—now, they’re back again with some new tunes. Tickets at metrotix.com (1200 S. 7th St., LaSalle Park).
Friendship, corruption and fear are tested in this thought-provoking play about two Chicago cop friends and a decision that could make them enemies. Tickets at repstl.org (130 Edgar Rd., Webster Groves).
Performing Arts
OVATIONS: BRIAN BROOKS MOVING COMPANY Jan. 20-21, Edison Theatre
LA CAGE AUX FOLLES Jan. 3-15, The Fox Theatre
The Brian Brooks Moving Company creates a visually stunning show with unusual choreography, aerobics and physical prowess. Tickets at edison. wustl.edu (6445 Forsyth Blvd., University City).
George Hamilton stars in this hilarious musical about the owner of a Saint-Tropez nightclub, his partner and
alivemag.com
Photo courtesy of The Pageant.
Music
Christodoulos Panayiotou and Figure Studies: Recent Representational Works on Paper January 27 - April 22, 2012
Tour with the Artists and Curator Saturday, January 28, 2012 Complimentary breakfast, 10:00 am Tour, 11:00 am Free admission
Opening Night
Friday, January 27, 2012 7:00 - 9:00 pm
Free admission, cash bar, valet available www.camstl.org
DOWNLOAD THE CAM APP // SEARCH FOR CAM ST. LOUIS Support for the Contemporary’s exhibitions program is provided by Jeanne and Rex Sinquefield; The Australian Government through the Australian Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body; Nancy Reynolds and Dwyer Brown; William E. Weiss Foundation; David Kordansky Gallery, Los Angeles; Mary Ann and Andy Srenco; and Étant donnés, the FrenchAmerican Fund for Contemporary Art; The British Council.
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Free
Hot Pick
key
I’LL BE YOUR MIRROR Through Feb. 11, Sheldon Art Galleries
Ensemble Español Spanish Dance at Touhill Performing Arts Center
This highly anticipated exhibit explores the concept of doppelgangers with photos, sculptures, paintings, videos and more from a number of international artists. More info at thesheldon.org (3648 Washington Blvd., Grand Center). UNTAMED Jan. 13-Feb. 26, Craft Alliance
Witness some truly out-of-the-box art, featuring numerous artists’ interpretations of the relationship between humans and animals. More info at craftalliance.org (6640 Delmar Blvd., The Loop). MEMORY Jan. 16-Feb. 23, Art St. Louis Main Gallery
Regional artists put forth unique pieces, creating a multimedia exhibit around the theme of memory and what it requires. More info at artstlouis.org (555 Washington Ave., Downtown). HARRY BERTOIA: THE TRAVELING EXHIBIT Jan. 26-March 17, Gallery 210 at UMSL
Interior design enthusiasts won’t miss this exhibit featuring some 30 framed furniture and sculpture drawings by Bertoia from 1940 to 1978. More info at gallery210.umsl.edu (1 University Blvd., Florissant). CHRISTODOULOS PANAYIOTOU Jan. 27-April 22, CAM
Christodoulos Panayiotou will show his first solo American exhibit with a multimedia exploration of both his native Cyprus and the US, as well as some interesting comparisons between the two. More info at camstl.org (3750 Washington Ave., Grand Center). Special Events STARS TO THE RESCUE Jan. 14, Peabody Opera House
Made famous by the 2008 film, this battle-of-thewills play sets one suspecting Sister Aloysius against an innocence-claiming Father Flynn. Tickets at ktgonstage.tix.com (111 South Geyer Rd., Kirkwood). WAY TO HEAVEN Jan. 26-Feb. 12, New Jewish Theatre
This depiction of Nazi “model villages,” made up of Jewish prisoners, uses perception, rhetoric and images to raise powerful questions. Tickets at newjewishtheatre.org (2 Millstone Campus Dr., Creve Coeur). ENSEMBLE ESPAÑOL SPANISH DANCE Jan. 27-28, Touhill Performing Arts Center
Experience Hispanic traditions in song and dance from around the world. Tickets at touhill.org (1 University Blvd., Florissant). Visual Arts AGGREGATE EXHIBITION SERIES Through Jan. 7, St. Louis Artists’ Guild and Galleries
Catch the last days of this exciting multi-exhibit event, including “Rhythms of the City,” “River 22 ALIVE STL JANUARY 2012
Road,” “Sustainability and the Built Environment” and more. More info at stlouisartistsguild. org (2 Oak Knoll Park, Clayton). EXPLORING THE FIGURE Through Jan. 7, Regional Arts Commission
Photographers Jerry Levy and Stan Stembicki put forth their interpretations of the bare human figure against various natural environments. More info at art-stl.com (6128 Delmar Blvd., University City). DAMON FREED: LIFE SAVER Through Jan. 20, Bruno David Gallery
Marked by his vibrant and almost in-motion artwork, Damon Freed will show some of his newest pieces. More info at brunodavidgallery.com (3721 Washington Blvd., Downtown). THE 200 SHOW ART EXHIBITION Through Jan. 23, Boileau Hall at SLU
Don’t miss some of the SLU Department of Fine Art’s most gifted students and their work in printmaking, metal art, painting, graphic design and more. More info at sluconnection.com (38 N. Vandeventer Ave., Midtown).
Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF) holds another “Stars to the Rescue” event featuring Luke Bryan, Timothy B. Schmit, Jeff Scott Soto and other entertainers and speakers. More info at arf.net (1400 Market St., Downtown). THE LOOP ICE CARNIVAL Jan. 14, Delmar Loop
Impressive ice sculptures, snow-related games, hot chocolate, treats and different boutique goodies will line The Loop in a festive ice extravaganza. More info at craftalliance.org (Delmar Blvd., The Loop). ORCHID SHOW Jan. 28-March 25, Missouri Botanical Garden
See more than 800 orchids in MOBOT's annual orchid show. The display is decorated this year in a “Year of China” theme. More info at missouribotanicalgarden.org (4344 Shaw Blvd., Shaw). U.S. CELLULAR FAMILY WINTER CARNIVAL Jan. 28, Soulard Market Park
Soulard’s family-friendly winter event features mask-making, live entertainment, arts and crafts and a children’s parade. More info at mardigrasinc.com (8th and Lafayette, Soulard). alivemag.com
Photo courtesy of Dance St. Louis.
DOUBT: A PARABLE Jan 20-29, Robert G. Reim Theatre
Winter Arts
BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE. STAY WARM AND GET CULTURED THIS WINTER AT THESE ST. LOUIS HAPPENINGS.
Mark your calendar! The COCA Family Theatre Series presents...
CONTEMPORARY ART MUSEUM ST. LOUIS
“Galumpha…Experiments in Human Architecture” January 20 - 22
Christodoulos Panayiotou January 27 – April 22
Winner of an Edinburgh Festival Critics’ Choice Award, three performers seem to defy gravity with their unique brand of athleticism and lyrical movement. Seesaws, diving platforms, off-center pyramids, pivoting pinwheels, insects, shrinking giants….there’s no telling what creative choreography and mind-blowing balance can produce. Presented by PNC Arts Alive. Showtimes: Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 1:30pm and 3:30pm Tickets: $14-$18 at COCA or cocastl.org 524 Trinity Ave. 314.725.6555 stlouisballet.org
PHD GALLERY “Macedonian Inspirations” January 21- March 3
Through numerous forms, Panayiotou addresses a range of issues and concerns from the legacy of theater, to the construction of national identity and history. He frequently takes the phenomena of public functions and spectacles as a point of departure from which to explore the structures and customs that inform social experience. Figure Studies presents recent drawings and works on paper by six artists that feature various approaches to representing the present, the past and even otherworldly phenomena.
During two recent summers, photographer David R. Hanlon joined an archaeological team excavating a medieval castle in Skopje, the capital of the Republic of Macedonia. Photographing the ruins and its artifacts piqued his interest in discovering more about the older culture associated with this structure, as well as the contemporary urban spaces of the country. Twenty of his Macedonian images, which integrate past and present iconography, are on view at phd gallery. Complementing the images are 10 Macedonian-inspired ceramic vessels created by Jim Ibur. Hanlon and Ibur coordinate the Photography and Ceramics programs respectively at at St. Louis Community College-Meramec in St. Louis.
3750 Washington Blvd. 314.535.4660 camstl.org
2300 Cherokee St. 314.664.6644 phdstl.com
“Figure Studies: Recent Representational Works on Paper” January 27 – April 22
Jan 20th - Feb 4th
Sheldon Concert Hall and Art Galleries Located in Grand Center, St. Louis’ Arts and Entertainment district, The Sheldon presents an exciting lineup of concerts, including Branford Marsalis and Joey Calderazzo, Los Lobos, Bela Fleck and the Flecktones, Suzy Bogguss and more! The Sheldon Art Galleries feature rotating exhibitions of photography, architecture, jazz history, children’s art, emerging artists and St. Louis artists and collections. The Sheldon–The Perfect Place for Music and Art! 3648 Washington Blvd. 314.533.9900 TheSheldon.org
THE FABULOUS FOX
HOTCITY THEATRE
Dance STL Presents “West Side Story” February 14 - 26
“Oleanna” Jan. 20 – Feb. 4
More than 50 years ago, one musical changed theater forever. Now it’s back, and mesmerizing audiences once again. From the first note to the final breath, “WEST SIDE STORY” soars as the greatest love story of all time. The score is considered to be one of Broadway’s finest and features such classics of the American musical theatre as Something’s Coming, Tonight, America, I Feel Pretty and Somewhere. Tickets are available at the Fox box office and through Metrotix 314.534.1111 or online at metrotix.com.
The first show in our 2012 season, “Oleanna” is a seething investigation into the ever-present mechanisms of power, harassment and abuse. Mamet’s rapid-fire drama exposes the “mixed messages” between a fledgling college student and her professor, where the seemingly innocent nuance of their first encounter is twisted and words become weapons.
527 N. Grand Blvd. fabulousfox.com
ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
“Oleanna is likely to provoke more arguments than any other play this year.” –NY Times Kranzberg Arts Center 501 N. Grand. 314.289.4063 hotcitytheatre.org
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John Doelling and Andria Smith
If you can’t stand the heat… Get out of the kitchen—and into these local eateries. St. Louisans are going crazy for cooking classes, and a few STL restaurants are teaching recipes for their signature dishes. At Stone Soup Cottage in St. Charles, up to 20 students watch Chef Carl McConnell as he cooks a three-course tasting menu paired with wines, and based on the restaurant’s popular cookbook. The students watch, learn and eat—an added benefit, since the restaurant is generally booked six months in advance. Check stonesoupcottage.com for the current schedule. $50 per person.
A Veggie Tale The story of two stand-up comedians who met and fell into business together. By Christopher Reilly | Photo by sara swaty roger
> It’s no secret that locally-grown produce is a booming trend. Now, more than ever, restaurants proclaim a focus on fresh local foods, and farmers’ markets are sprouting up everywhere—Missouri led the nationwide craze by adding 77 new markets last year alone. NeighborGood Foods, co-founded by John Doelling and Andria Smith, has taken it to the next level— bringing the farmers’ market right to their customers’ front doors with weekly and biweekly deliveries of farm-fresh fruits and vegetables. Love At First Bite. When they first met as stand-up comedians, Doelling and Smith would never have guessed they would eventually start a company together. But, Smith changed the course of both their lives when she returned from a standup trip (she’s made appearances on Comedy Central and “Last Comic Standing”) with a bag of grass-fed beef and pork from pigs raised on a natural acorn diet. Amazed by the great flavor of these organic meats, the pair started frequenting farmers’ markets to see if they would find the same taste difference in farm-fresh vegetables. They did. Doelling and Smith were instantly hooked and became regulars at farmers’ markets throughout the area, establishing contacts along the way. Have Veggies, Will Travel. The two Dogtown residents began planning and spreading the word via door hangers, and they delivered their first 25 food baskets in August 2011. Since then, the company’s reach has grown rapidly to include 14 communities, from Downtown and 24 ALIVE STL JANUARY 2012
the Central West End to Webster Groves and Ladue, with a diverse customer base ranging from high-level attorneys to the unemployed. Their service is particularly popular with parents who want to ensure their children are eating fresh produce, and busy individuals who simply don’t have time to shop the farmers’ markets themselves. “We’re getting people fresh fruits and vegetables with quality that exceeds what’s available at the grocery store,” Doelling says. “People are becoming more aware of the total spectrum of good health and food’s role.” Local greenhouse growers supply 75 percent of the produce NeighborGood Foods delivers, and while it has been grown in an environmentally responsible manner, it’s not necessarily certified organic. The rest comes from certified organic importers. In addition to produce, baskets may contain freshly baked breads, nuts, jams and jellies.
Vegadeli in Chesterfield held its first “Vegan 101” cooking class just before Thanksgiving, sharing recipes for healthy, vegan-friendly dishes. Chef Brent Leonard demonstrates the cooking techniques, while the restaurant’s resident nutritionist, Amanda Barker, talks about the nutritional value of ingredients in the dishes. They also happily offer suggestions for substitutions to those with different diet requirements (gluten-free and others). Sign up at vegadeli.com. Stone Soup Cottage
Bye-Bye Grocer. Smith and Doelling post what their baskets will contain each week on the NeighborGood Foods blog. They guarantee a variety, and when something unusual is on the menu, they include cooking tips or recipes as a bonus. If there’s something on the list that you don’t want, simply note it on your exclusion list, and they’ll make substitutions. For more info, visit neighborgoodfoods.com, or call 314.630.7808. If your neighborhood isn’t on the list, simply get five office workers or neighbors to order with you, and they’ll add your office or neighborhood to the route. alivemag.com
Photo by Lily Liu.
On the other side of the frying pan, Robbie Montgomery will offer cooking classes from her newest restaurant, Sweetie Pie’s Upper Crust, when it opens this spring in Grand Center. She’ll teach how to make her wellloved comfort food dishes, along with some kitchen safety, knife skills and prep techniques. Check sweetiepieskitchen.com or call 314.371.0304 for more info.
The
1
st
plate is always as Sunday try any three of our small plates for just $22. Plus wine specials on all bottles under $100.
CHARMING as the
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Private party rooms available 1234 Washington Ave. 314.241.7770 • LucasParkGrille.com
DISCOVER ISRAEL WITH ST. LOUIS YOUNG ADULTS
See Israel for Free on a Birthright Israel Trip This special St. Louis TaglitBirthright trip is for young adults (ages 22-26) who currently live in St. Louis and have never been to Israel on an organized trip. Don’t miss this opportunity to make new friends and lasting connections.
Summer 2012 Trip Registration opens February 15, 2012 www.israeloutdoors.com For more information, contact Lee’at Bachar at lbachar@jfedstl.org
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Hot Spot: Blondie’s Coffeehouse by day and wine bar by night, this new cozy spot brings a bit of everything to Downtown. By Cristy Miller | Photos by jennifer silverberg
> The space at 1301 Washington Avenue has been quietly vacant for a while. Home to a few retail businesses over the last few years, this prime corner locale with floor-to-ceiling windows needed a change of tenants. Enter Kathleen McGowan, a Downtown resident for 12 years, whose family is no stranger to the restaurant biz. After watching Downtown evolve over the years, McGowan decided it was time to open her own place in the neighborhood she knows and loves. Thus, Blondie’s Coffee and Wine Bar was born, and with it, a cozy and charming new destination for coffee, wine, desserts and more. What’s in a Name Although the restaurant’s name could mean many things—iconic Hollywood blondes, or as this sweets-obsessed food writer immediately thought, dessert—Blondie’s is a play on McGowan’s childhood nickname, the “Little Blonde Bomber.” The space has a European feel, with yellow and gold hues, high-top window seating, an espresso bar and a comfy lounge area with a fireplace. Much like the moniker implies, it’s romantic and sweet.
By night, the lights dim and the mood transitions; you’re more likely to find a couple on a date or girls dishing over drinks than a lone java junkie on a laptop. Small plate options like cheese and charcuterie are added to the menu, as well as hummus with popover crostinis, beef tenderloin and vegetables and smoked salmon with capers. Nightcaps, the Blondie Way If you come for dessert or drinks, you’ve struck gold; the menu is a playful list of “blonde bombshell”named drinks, like the Lauren Becall Negroni with Tanqueray gin, Aperol, Grand Marnier, 26 ALIVE STL JANUARY 2012
sweet vermouth and orange bitters, and the Betty Grable with 10 Cane rum, amaretto and pineapple juice. Dessert drinks include the Marilyn Monroe martini, a sweet blend of Rum Chata, vanilla vodka and Irish cream, and the decadent Jane Mansfield, with Serendipity Tahitian vanilla ice cream, Godiva white and dark chocolates and brandy. Plated desserts are equally satisfying. Try the chocolate pot de crème, peanut butter mousse, the signature butterscotch and toffee blondie brownie or a popover bread pudding with candied pecans and caramel. And, while the warm sofa seating by the fireplace is perfect for these dreary winter months, by spring, McGowan plans to add sidewalk seating—giving us yet another reason to visit.
where to go
Shades of Blonde But, Blondie’s is really whatever you want it to be. By day, you can stop in for coffee or a smoothie, or enjoy a spinach and goat cheese souffle from the breakfast menu, which includes a handful of paninis, souffles and popovers, deliciously light and airy rolls that are best enjoyed with butter and jam. Come noontime, grab a casual lunch with an oven-roasted turkey, Gouda and green apple sandwich, or choose from a selection of salads, soups and artisan sandwiches.
Blondie’s Coffee and Wine Bar 1301 Washington Ave., Downtown 314.241.6100, blondiesstl.com Sandwiches: $7.25-$8.50 Cocktails: $9-$10 Hours: Mon.-Wed., 6:30am-10:30pm; Thurs.Fri., 6:30am-1:30am; Sat., 8am-1:30am; Sun., 8am-4pm
{ Inside Dish }
best bets Tips for a top-notch experience at Blondie’s.
Share-Worthy Plate: Blondie’s Sweet & Spicy Popcorn Top Sandwich: The Cheese-A-Ramus: Swiss, cheddar, mozzarella and tomato with a sunflower pesto spread
Spirit Award: Blondie Got Back: Pineapple- and jalapeno-infused tequila with OJ and Aperol Best Bet Breakfast: Plain popover with honey-lime butter
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Good For What Ails You Hot toddies take the chill off this season. By matt sorrell | Photo by jennifer silverberg
> The toddy has been around for centuries—well before what we recognize as the modern cocktail. It was served in both hot and cold versions, and was simply made with whatever spirits were at hand, a little sugar, water and some herbs as desired— with nutmeg, cinnamon and mint as the common go-tos. Cold toddies eventually morphed into a variety of drinks, including the cocktail, while the hot toddy has kept its original identity, to a certain degree anyway. Hot toddies were often imbibed as a home remedy for a number of ailments, from head colds to hangovers (sometimes, they still are). But first-aid aside, the hot toddy also makes for a fine cold-weather tipple, and it’s an excellent source of experimentation for the home mixologist. While in years past, toddies were made with everything from rum to brandy, the most popular version in modern times is made with whisky. So, it’s no surprise that local whisky bar extraordinaire The Scottish Arms has some delicious variations of this classic libation available. Of course, The Arms does the classic hot toddy upon request, featuring the bourbon or Scotch of the customer’s choice, along with the requisite hot water and some cinnamon, honey and cloves. They’ll also add some tea into the mix occasionally to complement the chosen spirit. All in all, it’s a solid take on the venerable toddy, and a fine way to keep the chill at bay on a blustery evening. But, for those customers who’d like to step up to something a little more complex and unique, the bar also does a special house version of the hot toddy, which takes this classic to a whole new level. Bar manager Chris Lynch came up with the recipe, which features Ledaig 10-year-old single-malt Scotch as the base; a menthol liqueur, such as white creme de menthe; Green Chartreuse; a fresh squeeze of lemon and a lemon peel. Instead of straight hot water, this toddy incorporates English black tea for another layer of complexity. All of these subtle flavors interact precisely for a truly balanced drink. The single-malt makes for a bit of smoky flavor with some sweetness behind it, while the chartreuse lends herbal notes that complement the earthy tea, and the menthol brings a breath of mint to the mix. If that doesn’t cure what ails you, we don’t know what will. 28 ALIVE STL JANUARY 2012
Hot toddy at The Scottish Arms alivemag.com
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A Hero Among Us Local judge receives recognition for his efforts to help troubled youth. Interview by Gwen Ragno | photo by Emilie Graul
> As the senior judge presiding over the juvenile division of St. Louis Family Court, Judge Jimmie Edwards has seen more than his share of kids heading down the wrong path in life. So, when the opportunity arose in 2009 to do something about it, he didn’t hesitate. “The vast majority looked just like my brothers and me when we were growing up, and I thought that I could intervene and maybe provide a better outcome for the children,” he says. Edwards founded the Innovative Concepts Academy with a building provided by St. Louis Public Schools, financing from MERS Goodwill and plenty of help from the community. The first of its kind, the school provides full-time education and supervision for children who have been expelled from public schools— keeping them off the streets and out of trouble. People Magazine recently awarded Edwards with its annual Hero Award, which honors five individuals across the nation who have recognized a need in their communities and worked hard to fill it. The winners each receive $10,000 toward their causes— Edwards plans to use the prize money to create an arts program at the Innovative Concepts Academy. ALIVE: Why is the academy necessary? Judge Edwards: Learning continues, irrespective of where children are. If you lock a 12-year-old up for a minor misdemeanor offense, when he returns, he knows how to load an AK-47, how to make methamphetamine, how to cook crack cocaine, how to hurt somebody, how to steal cars—when you first sent him there because he was experimenting with marijuana. The question becomes, how do you want that child back in your community? With a more sophisticated criminal mind and a menace to our community? Or, do you want him back with a better understanding of what it is to be a good citizen, what it means to be decent and respectful and what it means to go get a job and become a taxpayer? ALIVE: Outside of academics, what does the school provide? JE: What we’re trying to teach these kids is that it’s okay to be law-abiding. It’s okay to be respectful. It’s okay to be independent enough to do the right thing. While reading, writing and arithmetic are important, all the other things that are causing them to fail are important to address as well. Chess teaches our children to deliberate. It teaches them that if 30 ALIVE STL JANUARY 2012
you’re impulsive, you will lose. We analogize that to life. If you’re impulsive in life, if you put your hands on a man, you might lose. ALIVE: Have the public schools failed these children in some way? JE: Public schools are doing a great job. My kids are kids who cannot function in a regular school setting because of their attitudes and their behavior. Unless a child can sit down, listen and be respectful, that child will not learn. You can’t teach unless you can control behavior, and in our school, I control behavior. ALIVE: Is the idea that these kids will go back to traditional schools? JE: I would like to see every child finish with me, because if you start with me, then you get on the right track and graduate. My biggest fear is that if I let them go, they will not be able to sustain the discipline they’re sustaining now.
ALIVE: How do you know when all of your efforts have paid off? JE: I know that they’re achieving when they want to run to me to show their progress reports. Whether it’s a D or an A, they show me that they’re proud of themselves, many for the first time in their lives. For the first time, somebody cares enough to ask about what they’re doing academically. ALIVE: Why did you decide to be a judge? JE: My mom passed away right after I graduated law school. She would always tell me that money is nice, but it’s not the end of the world. All the money that you have when you die doesn’t mean a thing. She always told me that what you do for others matters most. So, when the decision came to continue being a corporate lawyer for AT&T or go to the bench and make a heck of a lot less money, I thought about what my mom said, and she would have wanted me to go help somebody. I’ve been on the bench now for 21 years, and I’ve never regretted it. alivemag.com
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Job Envy They say diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but fine jewelry dealer and designer Igal Alon comes in a very close second. His custom engagement ring designs can be seen on the hands of countless St. Louis brides, which likely explains the incredible number of wedding invitations he receives each year. Let’s just say his reputation precedes him. interview by jennifer dulin wiley | Photo by attilio D’agostino
Igal Alon, 36 Owner, Mavrík Fine Jewelry & Diamonds How He Got Into the Biz. My family in Israel has been in the diamond-cutting business for as long as I can remember. Growing up, I didn’t really see myself being a part of the business. Being around diamonds was pretty cool, but I just wasn’t interested in diamondcutting. I found my passion in designing. When I started Mavrík, it gave me the freedom to create. It’s a great feeling to know people are walking around wearing my jewelry, and I can say, “Yes, I made that.” Education/Training. I studied electronics before my military service in Israel. Afterward, I jumped head first into the jewelry business and taught myself the fundamentals. Every day, I continue to expand my knowledge in this ever-changing industry. Why His Job Rocks. I’m lucky enough to share in the most memorable milestones in my customers’ lives. People come to me because they want to make that special moment perfect, and I can help them do that. This is what makes me happy to come into work every day. Typical Day. Oh gosh, I don’t think there ever is a typical day. Some days, I can be found in the store, and other days I am taking trips to jewelry conventions to learn about new technology and creations. I take trips to Israel to see handmade jewelry and also to buy diamonds. Whenever I leave, I always come away with more knowledge— and more jewelry! Proudest Moment. On Aug. 12, 2011, the real gem in my life, baby Bella, was born. This little girl makes everything worth it. Professionally, I’ve put a lot of hard work into my business to get it to where it is today. When most people 32 ALIVE STL JANUARY 2012
were forced to close their stores or lay people off, I was blessed to be able to expand, and I am very proud of that. Best Job Perk. People are fascinating to me, and I love hearing their stories. On top of that, I’ve been invited to many weddings because of the relationships I’ve built with my customers. Favorite Part of Weddings. I love to dance. Really, I do!
Most Surprising Thing About the Diamond Biz. My work is really less about diamonds and more about people. The diamonds are the easy part—it’s matching the perfect diamond to the customer that takes the most work. Goals for the Future. I want to keep my business growing, but I also want to keep it personal. I interact with all of my customers; I get to know them, understand them and know what they like. It’s really important for me to continue to run my business in this way. alivemag.com
Where I Live
The daily commute had gotten old and the life Downtown had started to bloom. For Ken Lehman, the Syndicate offered everything he was looking for in a place to call home. a priority. “It all centered around wanting to have more free time and enjoying the cultural and sporting events happening Downtown,” he says.
Sense of Community
Leaving behind the idea of neighbors and the luxury of having his own yard, Ken was pleased to find how easy it was to meet people Downtown. Of course, some credit goes to his beloved Italian Greyhound mix, who has helped Ken meet plenty of other dog owners in his new neighborhood. “It’s really a dog-friendly city,” he says. “I feel like half the people here own dogs, and it’s a great way to get to know people.” .
The Finer Things
Change of Scenery
live there,” he says.
Dedicated Red Birds Fan
Cardinals games have always been a mustattend for Ken and his kids. So, finding a home that offered the convenience of quickly reaching Busch Stadium and the Edward Jones Dome was
PMS 1665 Orange PMS 7463 Dark Blue
After commuting 30 minutes from Eureka each day to his job in Downtown St. Louis, Ken decided it was time to ditch his suburban dwelling and plant his roots in the growing culture Downtown had to offer. “I’ve watched the progression of the city taking hold and decided it would be fun to
The Syndicate offers its fair share of amenities, like a rooftop patio, amazing neighboring restaurants and plenty of luxury-style lofts. Ken has spent his first three weeks as a new member to the Syndicate family enjoying every bit of it. But, the one thing he’s enjoying the most is the Syndicate’s workout facility. “It’s like a professional gym,” Ken said. “It’s got a great feel to it.”
Syndicate Condos Located at 915 Olive currently has Developer Close-out Pricing for the remaining 2-3 bedroom units starting at $228,750.00. For Information & Private tours please contact Chris & Lisa Grus of Premier Realty Exclusive 314.517.5050/314.772.4868 or visit 4SaleStLouis.com. FHA Approved Building PMS 1665 Orange White
• Stylish Modern Finishes • Amazing Location • 3 Story Penthouses!
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Inspired City Living For Private Showings, Call 314.517.5050
Developer Closeout Pricing! Visit the Syndicate Condominiums and see why it’s the most popular downtown residence! FHA Approved Building INCREDIBLE VIEWS! 100% Walkable
stl now
Unwedded Bliss The single girl’s survival guide to wedding madness. By Pamela Raymond | illustration by sarah quatrano
> Once upon a time, back in the ’90s, there used to be a designated time of the year that you knew would bring embossed envelopes, regally inviting you to celebrate in the happiness of a distant cousin, close friend or a co-worker in the joining of holy matrimony. Now, it’s a year-round sport. Wedding invites can invade your mailbox like a stealth bomb at any moment. What ever happened to June being the designated month to make single girls’ lives a living hell? Okay, maybe I’m exaggerating. It isn’t hell, but it can be an anxious time for some single girls in the world. Who will I bring to the wedding? Will there be anyone interesting to flirt with at the reception? Will I commit an epic fail after too many drinks at the open bar? There are so many landmines to navigate. So, to help a single girl out, I’ve come up with this short survival list to unwedded bliss during wedding season—otherwise known as how to keep your pie hole shut, don’t get crazy-drunk and celebrate wedded bliss with the people you care about most. Feel free to weigh in on my blog with your own survival tips. Like it or not, it’s not about you. Maybe you don’t like the venue. You don’t like the groom. You don’t like weddings. So what? Get over it. Whatever opinions you may have formed on the actual wedding, keep your lipstick-laden lips sealed and be happy for the couple. Happiness reduces wrinkles. Frowning makes you look like a hag. Do you want to frown on this wedding and look like a hag? Thought not. No plus one? No problem. Contrary to popular belief, weddings can be fun without a date. If you are attending with your couple friends, be their third wheel. They probably owe it to you for putting up with their relationships. Or, get creative. Who says a “plus one” has to be a guy? Can’t you bring your best friend or your sister? Get dolled up and treat it like a mini prom. Buy a new dress and hit that party like a West Coast party cuz a West Coast party don’t stop. Or, something like that. Drunk and disorderly is not a good combination. Drowning one’s sorrows is a typical response to a tragedy. Weddings do not fall under this category. Unleashing yourself full-force on the unlimited booze that is
34 ALIVE STL JANUARY 2012
likely available to you at a wedding is a big no-no. Your misadventures in the land of “drunkity drunk drunk” will be talked about well after the last grain of bird seed is thrown. In this tech age, it will also be posted on Facebook and/or YouTube before your cab arrives to take your sorry slurring carcass home. How do you want to be remembered? Charming and sweet or crazy-drunk with Rasputin eyes? The bouquet toss is not meant to crush your soul. Many of my friends detest this tradition, mainly because it promotes “running of the bulls” behavior on the dance floor. They also hate how it glaringly points out their lack of coupledom or wedded matrimony. Here’s the upside. The tossing of perfectly good, expensive flowers is a goldmine. The bouquet is usually better than any flowers I would normally buy or get from a cheapskate date, so I go for it. Step aside, ladies. Momma needs a new dining room centerpiece! Weddings are a celebration, not a jail sentence to get out of. Regardless of whether you don’t champion the union, hate the Electric Slide or think the couple is the best thing since sliced bread, take a deep breath and make the most of the day. At the very least, you get a decent meal and some cardio on the dance floor. In the best of circumstances, you will witness two people you care about making a lifelong commitment, and that is worth celebrating.
XXRayVision Never one to believe that sleep is completely necessary, Pamela keeps a hectic social schedule, so she sees a lot of relationship dilemmas. A native of New Orleans, Pamela infuses a mix of Southern sass and Yankee tough love in all of her columns. Pamela also writes a blog for “Girls Guide To The Galaxy” and uses her MBA from Maryville University to run her own PR and events firm, The Raymond Experience. You can follow her on Twitter @RayExperience. alivemag.com
style
March of the Penguins With winter runways rampant in feminine tuxedos, the trend is clear: jacket required. By Jill Manoff | Photos by Carmen Troesser
> Borrowing from the boys is nothing new, but this season, the trend takes a more formal turn. From the glam-rock blazers that debuted at Balmain and Isabel Marant to the elegant suiting introduced by Michael Kors and Yves Saint Laurent (the originator of Le Smoking), winter’s choice outerwear seems inspired by menswear—more specifically, its black-tie staple. The take? Suit yourself! Indulge in designers’ overwhelming tux love by shopping updated versions of the traditional dinner jacket. Luxe textures, unexpected colors, cropped cuts and edgy embellishments define today’s most covetable styles. Dress them up (with matching pants), or dress them down (with jeans and a tee), and don’t hesitate to add to your growing collection; it is homme work, after all.
1
36 ALIVE STL JANUARY 2012
ALC blazer available at Esther, Ladue, 314.432.5300.
Mink Pink blazer available at Meka Boutique, Chesterfield, 636.536.6300.
Current/Elliott blazer available at Vie, Ladue, 314.997.0124.
Runway photos courtesy of style.com.
Yoana Baraschi blazer available at Mister Guy, Ladue, 314.991.5262.
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She’s waited her entire life for this day. Together, we can make it perfect.
The Party Professionals Since 1946.
Ask us how we can serve you: Tables Chairs Linens Tents Fountains China Dance Floors Flatware Glassware
West County (314) 822-9000 11601 Manchester Road, Des Peres, MO 63131 South City (314) 822-9000 5901 Elizabeth Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110 Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Saturday 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
www.weinhardtpartyrentals.com
style
Hit the Right Cords Thanks to a number of new incarnations, casual corduroys have “whooshed” in as menswear’s most stylish go-to. By Jill Manoff | photos by carmen troesser > Ever since denim became permissible on Casual Fridays, few fabrics have threatened its supremacy in the versatility department—until now. Thanks to labels from J. Crew to Current/Elliott turning out cool corduroy pants in countless combinations of wale widths and warm tones (gold, olive, rust), the style is burgeoning as the choice grab-and-go. But, before you go “whooshing” from work to play, be sure you’ve chosen the pair that is most appropriate. Thick wales (vertical ribs) are best worn in rich colors and give off a more casual vibe—but, as they add heft, should be reserved for the slim set. Conversely, thin wales (called “pinwales”) are more Monday-through-Thursday-friendly—and forgiving. Pair your pick with pieces of comparable heft (a cardigan, cable-knit sweater or peacoat) and just-as-versatile wingtips all winter. Be sure to keep denim in your wardrobe rotation, though—because sometimes, silence is golden. [Top to bottom] Benson cords available at Moris Fashions, Central West End, 314.361.6800. Peter Millar cords available at Woody’s, Frontenac, 314.569.3272. Peter Millar cords available at Woody’s, Frontenac, 314.569.3272. Bill’s Khakis cords available at Mister Guy, Ladue, 314.692.2003. Ballin cords available at Woody’s, Frontenac, 314.569.3272. Hertling Trousers cords available at Mister Guy, Ladue, 314.692.2003. 38 ALIVE STL JANUARY 2012
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END OF THE SEASON SALES! UP TO 75% OFF SELECTED STYLES! Wildfox Couture, Big Star Denim, Charlotte Tarantola & many more great brands marked down! Stop by to check out the great deals this month! Mention this ad and take an extra 10% off the final mark down!!!
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DATES
1634 Clarkson Rd. • Chesterfield, MO 63017 636.536.6300 • MekaBoutique.com
I n t ro d uci n g
DATES Co n n ect wi th St . L o uisa n s wh o l ike wh a t you like.
Check out nearby dates from people who like what you like + post the dates you want to go on. ALIVEMAG.COM/DATES
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by randi chervitz Scan the tag with your smartphone to get started.
4
...Have drinks at Pi and then see a movie at The ...Bike ride through Forest Park and then grab brunch at
...Go to a Cardinals’ game and then stroll through Citygarden?
107 1/2 e. argonne dr., kirkwood, mo 63122 314.984.9114 w w w. b r a n d o b o u t i q u e . c o m
style
Head Over Heels Keep the change—in an elevated take on the classic penny loafer. By Jill Manoff | photos by carmen troesser > It’s true that a penny saved is a penny earned, so you can rightly call your intention to scoop up of-the-moment penny loafers in a variety of textures and tones a “savings plan.” Seen on the winter runways of Alexander Wang and Tommy Hilfiger in styles ranging from tasseled and classic to metallic and evening-perfect, heeled loafers (many with coin-ready slits) are among the season’s most splurgeworthy—and wearable—trends to pair with denim or a dress. So, hit the stores, but be sure to verge far from your grandpa’s leisure shoes and Michael Jackson’s old-school dance kicks. Instead, bank on prettypreppy, elevated loafers to both appear current and store your meter money. Let’s just say, a piggy bank never looked this chic. [Top to bottom] Luichiny loafer available at Bronx Diba Luichiny Shoe Outlet, Earth City, 314.373.1280. Luichiny loafer available at Bronx Diba Luichiny Shoe Outlet, Earth City, 314.373.1280. Seychelles loafer available at Mary Jane’s, Central West End, 314.367.8867.
40 ALIVE STL JANUARY 2012
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Most STDs are curable, all are treatable | Grab your partner & get yourselves tested today
ANDREA’S BOUTIQUE
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
Andrea’s Boutique features new purses and jewelry, vintage and resale finds (from clothing to furniture), and original artwork. One of a kind items arrive every week! 1145 N. Lafayette St. 314.831.7500 Tues- Sat 11am –7pm
HIGHER EDUCATION
Make a Resolution You Can Keep
Achieving your continuing education goals has never been easier. The holidays are an especially hectic time of year with all of the shopping, holiday parties and family gatherings. Now that all the running around is finally over, why not start the New Year off right by taking the first steps to achieving your goal of continuing your education? College programs these days make it nearly impossible to continue making excuses to avoid going for that degree you’ve always wanted. If you have put off achieving your goals because of children, jobs or life in general—saying you’ll do it next week, next month, or next year—now is the time to step up and continue your education while still maintaining the other areas of your life that are important to you. Local schools like Fontbonne University, Saint Louis University, Washington University, Sanford-Brown College and University of Missouri–St. Louis offer a wide range of programs and options that are incredibly flexible, with evening classes, online classes and multiple campus locations to accomodate even the busiest schedules. There is also the potential for student financial aid, and some adult programs are offered at a third of the price of traditional programs. To sweeten the deal, experienced career counselors and professors who understand where you’re coming from are available to help guide you through your time as a student. So, put down your remotes and pick up your textbooks. The time to start furthering your education and achieving goals you never thought possible is now.
Fontbonne University
With Fontbonne University’s OPTIONS program for adult learners, continuing your education is at your fingertips. Fontbonne is dedicated to helping students of all ages accomplish their educational goals. The OPTIONS program at Fontbonne offers several different degrees in the field of business for students to choose from, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, and graduate certificates. Fontbonne has locations in Clayton, Brentwood, South County and North County, making it possible for people across the metro area to have access to the facilities. Online classes, which students can take at their own pace, are also available. The school offers career counseling and personal counseling with professionals that understand you and your busy life. For more information on Fontbonne University’s OPTIONS program, log on to fontbonne.edu or call 314.863.2220.
Washington University
University College is the professional and continuing education division in Arts & Sciences at Washington University, designed for adults who want to continue their education and earn certificates, bachelor’s, master’s or associate’s degrees. There are several different class formats available, guaranteed to fit your specific needs and time requirements. Choose from traditional 16-week courses, eight-week courses, online and hybrid online courses. You can also schedule courses back-to-back on the same night, to take full advantage of your time. Professional students at Washington University receive all of the same advantages as traditional students, and leave with degrees from a nationally ranked university—but are able to earn them in a manner that
fits into their lives and schedules. Washington University has added and upgraded several academic programs for the 2012 academic year, such as the new Bachelor of Science and certificates in Sustainability and the new undergraduate degree in Health Care. For more information on University College at Wahington University, log on to ucollege.wustl.edu or call 314.935.6700.
Saint Louis University
The name says it all when referring to Saint Louis University’s School for Professional Studies, also known as SLU for Busy Adults. Saint Louis University has developed a continuing education program, specially designed for adults who have busy schedules, but are always ready to challenge themselves and never stop learning. The school offers online classes that students can take when it’s convenient for them, as well as on-site classes that meet only once a week (on evenings and Saturdays) and blended classes that meet both on-site and online. With locations in St. Louis and Belleville, IL, classes are easily accessible no matter where you live and work. The School for Professional Studies has five eight-week accelerated terms that allow students to pick a start date that is convenient for them, at any time of the year. Students can earn certificates, bachelor’s and master’s degrees or take an accelerated path from bachelor’s to master’s degree known as a bridge program. For more information on Saint Louis University’s School for Professional Studies, log on to SLUonline.com or call 314.977.2330.
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HIGHER EDUCATION
Sanford-Brown College
With the help of the professional programs offered at Sanford-Brown College, working adults have a unique opportunity to “turn one day into day one” of their career development. Students can choose from a wide selection of available occupational paths and degree programs, including tracks for those interested in nursing, dentistry, business administration, law, art, design and technology, taught by professors with relevant experience and a genuine interest in helping their students succeed. Even the application process is specifically tailored to the multi-tasking adult, with the option of applying in person or entirely online for the utmost convenience. With three locations in Fenton, Hazelwood and St. Peters, Sanford-Brown makes its educational opportunities accessible, affordable and worthwhile to working professionals across the St. Louis area who are hoping to take their careers to the next level.
For more information about the programs offered at Sanford-Brown College, visit sanfordbrown.edu or call 1.877.809.2444.
University of Missouri–St. Louis
The Division of Continuing Education at University of Missouri– St. Louis is committed to improving the lives of St. Louis’ lifelong learners. The Division facilitates noncredit programs, credit courses, conferences and events that lead to not only degree completion, but also professional development and personal enrichment. Courses, programs and events are held both on and off campus, offering the flexibility continuing education learners need to fulfill their goals. Along with the main campus, UMSL delivers “2+2” programs at six community colleges and has recently opened the West County CE Center (home
You’ve got the confidence. Now get the degree. Accelerated bachelor’s and master’s degrees to fit your busy lifestyle.
www.fontbonne.edu/alive 314.863.2220
CMYK 59 / 90 / 19 / 53 “education focused on” = Avenir 45 book. “YOU” = ITC Avant Garde Gothic book.
education focused on YOU education focused on YOU education focused on YOU
of our Computer Education & Training Center)–sufficiently covering the entire St. Louis metropolitan area. In addition, the UMSL Online program adds even more education focused onflexibility and freedom to participate in courses wherever you may be. Providing options within six university colleges, 15 centers and programs, and more than 20 certificate YOU programs, UMSL’s Division of Continuing Education offers something for everyone.
education focused on
For more information on UMSL’s Division of Continuing YOU Education, log on to ce.umsl.edu or call 314.516.5961
education focused ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION education focused on YOU
on
WHY UNIVERSITY COLLEGE? Earn your degree at a University ranked among the best in the Nation with one of the lowest tuition rates in St. Louis. Visit us on Facebook.com/WUSTLucollege
Nationally ranked university | Centrally located with two Metrolink stops Distingushed faculty and first-rate teaching | Accelerated undergraduate options Challenging, innovative courses and programs | Inviting academic community A degree from University College is a degree from Washington University
IT’S NOT TOO LATE. CLASSES BEGIN TUESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2012
Call (314) 935-6700 e-mail: ucollege@artsci.wustl.edu • www.ucollege.wustl.edu/
2012 ALIVE PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE The St. Louis area is well-known for its wealth of quality private schools, from the early childhood approach of the Montessori Method, to intense college preparatory programs, to traditional faith-based curriculums. Local private schools are opening their doors to interested families, giving you the chance to get a first-hand look at what each one has to offer your child. It’s important to do your homework and study up on the schools you’re considering, but this cheat sheet will help you as you explore your options and plan for your child’s future.
School
Grades
Open House
Andrews Academy—Creve Coeur 888 N. Mason Rd., Creve Coeur 314.878.1883, andrewsacademy.com
PreK–6, Coed
Jan. 29, 1-3pm
Andrews Academy—Lake Saint Louis 1701 Feise Rd., Lake Saint Louis, 636.561.7709, andrewsacademy.com
K–8, Coed
Jan. 29, 1–3pm
Central Christian School 700 S. Hanley Rd., Clayton, 314.727.4535, ccsstl.com
3K–6, Coed
Jan. 5, 9-11am
Chaminade College Preparatory School 425 S. Lindbergh Blvd., Creve Coeur, 314.993.4400, chaminade-stl.org
6–12, Boys
Fall 2012
Chesterfield Day School 1100 White Rd., Chesterfield, 314.469.6622, chesterfielddayschool.org
PreK–6, Coed
Jan. 7, 10am-1pm
Chesterfield Montessori School 14000 Ladue Rd., Chesterfield 314.469.7150, chesterfieldmontessori.org
Pre–8, Coed
By Appointment
Christian Brothers College High School 1850 De La Salle Dr., Town and Country, 314.985.6067, cbchs.org
9–12, Boys
By Appointment
Churchill Center and School 1021 Municipal Center Dr., Town and Country, 314.997.4343, churchillstl.org
2–10, Coed
Jan. 13, 9:30am
City Academy 4175 N. Kingshighway Blvd., Penrose, 314.382.0085, www.cityacademyschool.org
PreK–6, Coed
Call for info
Clayton Academy 1414 Bellevue Ave., Richmond Heights, 314.727.2643, claytonacademy.org
K–8, Coed
Call for info
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School
Grades
Open House
School
Grades
Open House
The College School 7825 Big Bend Blvd., Webster Groves 314.962.9355, thecollegeschool.org
PreK–8, Coed
Nov. 2012
Nerinx Hall High School 530 E. Lockwood Ave., Webster Groves, 314.968.1505, nerinxhs.org
9–12, Girls
Fall 2012
Community School 900 Lay Rd., Ladue, 314.991.0005, communityschool.com
PreK–6, Coed
Jan. 9, 9:15am
New City School 5209 Waterman Blvd., Central West End, 314.361.6411, newcityschool.org
PreK–6, Coed
Fall 2012
Crossroads College Preparatory School 500 DeBaliviere Ave., Central West End, 314.367.8085, crossroadscollegeprep.org
7–12, Coed
Call for info
Principia 13201 Clayton Road, St. Louis, MO 63131 314.434.2100, principiaschool.org
PreK–12, Coed
By Appointment
De Smet Jesuit High School 233 N. New Ballas Rd., Creve Coeur, 314.567.3500, desmet.org
9–12, Boys
Fall 2012
Rohan Woods School 1515 Bennett Ave., Warson Woods, 314.821.6270, rohanwoods.org
Early Childhood–6, Coed
By Appointment
Downtown Children’s Center 607 N. 22nd St., St. Louis, MO 63103, 314.621.1131, downtownchildrenscenter.com
6 wks– PreK, Coed
March 24
Rossman School 12660 Conway Rd., West County, 314.434.5877, rossmanschool.org
PreK–6, Coed
Jan. 18, 9am
Saint Louis Priory High School 500 South Mason Road, St. Louis, MO 63141, 314.434.3690, stlprioryschool.org
7-12, Boys
Jan. 10, 11:30am
St. John Vianney High School 1311 S. Kirkwood Rd., Kirkwood, 314.965.4853, vianney.com
9–12, Boys
Nov. 4
St. Joseph’s Academy 2307 S. Lindbergh Blvd., Frontenac, 314.965.7205, stjosephacademy.org
9–12, Girls
Nov. 4
St. Louis University High School 4970 Oakland Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110, 314.531.0330, sluh.org
9-12, Boys
Nov. 6
Thomas Jefferson School 4100 South Lindbergh Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63127 314.843.4151, tjs.org
7-12, Coed
Oct. 2012
Ursuline Academy 341 South Sappington Road, Kirkwood, MO 63122 314.984.2800, ursulinestl.org
9-12, Girls
Call for info
Villa Duchesne 801 S. Spoede Rd., Frontenac, 314.432.2021, vdoh.org
Pre K-6, Coed; 7-12, Girls
Elementary: Jan. 18, 9am All Schools: Nov. 4
Visitation Academy 3020 N. Ballas Rd., West County, 314.625.9100, visitationacademy.org
PreK–12, Girls
Lower school: Feb. 11. 10:30amnoon
Westminster Christian Academy 800 Maryville Centre Dr., Town & Country, 314.997.2900, wcastl.org
7–12, Coed
Jan. 11
Whitfield School 175 S. Mason Rd., Creve Coeur, 314.434.5141, whitfieldschool.org
6–12, Coed
Explore, Examine, Exhibit: Jan. 12, 6:30-7:30pm
Downtown Children’s Center is a nationally accredited private early childhood program located in the heart of St. Louis. Our nurturing and developmentally appropriate program has a play-based curriculum with individual goals incorporated into each child’s learning. Our low teacher-to-child ratio, small group sizes and likeage grouping ensures quality learning. Our certified parent educator implements the Parents as Teachers program for all families. Our graduates attend some of the finest elementary schools in the area.
Forsyth School 6235 Wydown Blvd., St. Louis, 314.726.4542, forsythonline.com
Age 3 – Grade 6, Coed
Perspectives on Forsyth: Jan. 18, 7pm
Forsyth School offers a challenging, engaging education with support from exceptional teachers on a one-of-a-kind campus. With a strong academic foundation that includes the visual and performing arts, sports and challenge education, Forsyth graduates are well prepared for excellent secondary schools. Forsyth offers summer programs, full-time specialist teachers, a commitment to diversity and a comprehensive extended day program with after-school classes and year-round league sports.
Incarnate Word Academy 2788 Normandy Dr., Bel-Nor, 314.725.5850, iwacademy.org
9–12, Girls
Nov. 4, 12-4pm
John Burroughs School 755 S. Price Rd., Ladue, 314.993.4045, jburroughs.org
7–12, Coed
Fall 2012
Mary Institute and Saint Louis Country Day School (MICDS) 101 N. Warson Rd., Ladue, 314.993.5100, micds.org
PreK–12, Coed
Curriculum Night: Jan. 5, 6:30pm (upper school) Jan. 18, 6pm (lower school)
ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
self
Stress Less Simple strategies make a big difference in reducing everyday stress and anxiety. By Cristy Miller
> Most people would agree that managing stress is an ongoing battle. Whether it’s the day-to-day grind, an emotionally charged situation or anxiety about work, it can seem as if we never get relief from stress and tension. This New Year, resolve to recover your emotional health and relax with a little help from Dr. Jennifer L. Abel, author of the recent book, “Active Relaxation.” The Problem. According to Dr. Abel, a St. Louis psychologist who specializes in anxiety disorders, one of the biggest problems in reducing stress is that most people wait too long to treat it. We often wait until anxiety has spiraled out of control, and the relaxation techniques we apply are no match for our high stress and anxiety. For example, we may only take time to de-stress with a hot bath, massage 48 ALIVE STL JANUARY 2012
or deep-breathing exercise at the end of a busy work week or a non-stop day of outings and errands. And, although these techniques certainly help relieve stress, they often fail to have a significant effect on the overall stress and anxiety levels in our daily lives. Another problem, says Dr. Abel, is that most stressed people get even more tense at the thought of trying to relax because they are afraid of “losing their edge” or feel they are wasting time. The bottom line: Many practices we use are merely a band-aid to the problem instead of a treatment. Simple Solutions. In her book, “Active Relaxation,” Dr. Abel helps people solve this issue by providing easy strategies to cope with anxiety throughout the day and thereby decrease stress and improve relaxation. Her book also offers tools and step-by-step approaches to help control tension and slow down without losing your edge. Over time, these everyday practices go a long way. After using the techniques for many years, Dr. Abel says people “report their energy and productivity levels have increased.” It’s a natural byproduct of stress reduction—they have more time and energy to enjoy leisurely activities, which gives them a greater sense of balance and ultimately more happiness.
> For more info on Dr. Abel and her book, “Active Relaxation,” visit anxietystlouispsychologist.com.
{ Doctor’s Orders } Five tips to work your worries away.
1. Bring yourself in the moment.
Focus your concentration and energy on your senses and the things around you. Take time throughout the day to be mindful of your body and ask yourself if the tension you’re experiencing is really needed. This tactic can help you identify and reject unnecessary stress.
2. Take a break. If you’re stressed about
work or a project, don’t try to just power through it. Studies show that people who take four 15-minute breaks throughout the day are more efficient and focused at work.
3. Don’t worry, problem-solve. Most people worry about the future, upcoming situations and life’s little what-ifs. Instead of being victim to these often repetitious, preoccupying thoughts, train your brain to focus on what you can control, and come up with steps to deal with it. 4. get LOUd. Studies show that singing is proven to reduce stress, so belt out a few tunes in the shower or in the car before work. And, there’s a positive chemical change in your body when you smile, so when you’re feeling stressed, show those pearly whites. 5. Practice “Mindful Acceptance.”
Don’t try to fight how you’re feeling. If you’re stressed and feeling anxious, observe those feelings and learn to label your thoughts. By recognizing stress-inducing, negative thoughts, you’ll be better able to accept them and move on.
alivemag.com
NEW YEAR
NEW YOU The New Year always seems like the best time to devote yourself to getting back in shape. But, it’s also a great time to snag a deal on that gym membership you’ve been eyeing.
ROCK WORKOUT
3001 LOCUST ST. • 314.531.7625 • ROCKWORKOUT.COM
If you’re committed to making a change in 2012, Rock Workout is the perfect destination to help you achieve your New Year’s resolution. Val Strang, master trainer and cancer exercise specialist, and her team of nationally certified trainers focus not solely on weight loss, but on improving clients’ health and fitness levels—ensuring lives that are full, active and invigorating. Training sessions address every detail of your journey, including food logs and homework, in order to encourage a complete lifestyle change. Even in small group sessions, trainers guide all clients equally to help them achieve their highest fitness potential. Rock specializes in corrective exercises, muscle balancing and those with special needs such as cancer, M.S. and other chronic illnesses. Visit rockworkout.com to learn more about their unlimited training session packages!
ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
Train with heart
Lionheart
Personal Training Studio 1039 S. Big Bend Blvd. • 314.452.2392 lionheartPERSONALTRAINING.com
If you are looking for a gym with personable, experienced trainers and a place that you can be comfortable no matter what your level of fitness is, look no further than Lionheart Personal Training. The highly qualified trainers at Lionheart believe that the keys to success are not only hard work, but a sense of self-worth and enjoyment. The trainers have a combined experience of 40 years and qualifications such as Masters in Athletic Development, NASM, NSCA, USA Track and Field Level 1,2,3 and TRX Certification. Lionheart even has a nationally certified Proctor for Personal Training on staff. Don’t let their credentials intimidate you, though—everyone at Lionheart fully understands and welcomes people of all ages and fitness levels to share in their expertise and facilities. Lead trainer Jonathan Peck, nominated for Top Trainer St. Louis, tailors workouts to your needs, using positive energy and imagination to transform your body. Trainer Drew Seward, a former football player, wrestler and track athlete understands the value of hard work while trainer Matthew Harden, a 13-time All American track athlete, uses his skills to help you reach your full potential. To motivate customers, they realize that workouts have to be not only tough, but fun as well. What sets Lionheart apart from other gyms is that the trainers use a mentorship approach, making them not only your trainer, but also your coach, cheerleader and friend. The trainers here stress that lifestyle change is a strong component for getting and staying fit. You don’t need to be enslaved to a diet, but instead find healthy options for the foods you already love. Lionfit is a semi-private program that combines speed, power, strength and agility to make your body even more beautiful. If all that isn’t enough to get you in the door, Lionheart is offering a 50 percent discount on all contracts beginning January 1 as a special incentive to help you keep your New Year’s resolution.
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CLUB FITNESS MULTIPLE ST. LOUIS AREA LOCATIONS CLUBFITNESS.US • 866.551.2582
Once those holiday pounds have been shed, you could get back to your normal veg-out routine, but after seeing the variety of workouts and classes Club Fitness offers, working out might not seem like such a chore. Whether it’s more your style to stretch out all that negative energy with some morning yoga, or sweat it out with a session of cardio hip-hop hustle, the trainers at Club Fitness are there to help.With several locations in the St. Louis area, finding a gym on the way to or from work is a breeze. Plus, Club Fitness offers group exercise classes, babysitting, 24 hour access and personal trainers. And for this New Year, Club Fitness is offering a $10/month membership with no contract to tie you down. Every new Club Fitness member is set up with a complimentary personal training session to learn how to use the equipment, and to design a workout that fits their needs. Trainers understand the importance of creating a routine that fits into busy work schedules and have a few tips on keeping those pounds off without slaving away in a gym all morning. This is an intimidation-free zone, so even greenhorns should feel welcome on these weight machines. So, put down that calorie-packed peppermint mocha and head on over to Club Fitness to enjoy everything the New Year has to offer.
SWEAT POUND4POUND
8011 Maryland Ave. • 314.725.2714 • sweatp4p.com
A few months ago, Sweat co-owner José Ponce was the type of guy who would eat whatever he wanted, drink on the weekends and work out when he felt like it. He was also a tad overweight. When he began to experience health issues like high blood pressure, anxiety and sleep apnea, he decided it was time to do something about it. He teamed up with Jason Barbour, founder of the meal program Metabolic Meals, and together they developed a new lifestyle for a full-body transformation. After 90 days, Jose had lost 40 pounds of body fat, and replaced it with almost 10 pounds of muscle mass. More importantly, though, he feels great.
E BEFOR
“In our business, at this time of year, people want to talk about working out to lose weight,” José says. “They take for granted what it takes—it’s not just working out, but what you eat and how you live.” Metabolic Meals delivers fresh, healthful meals to your door three times a week, helping you take the first step to learning how to eat right. Sweat offers a one-on-one personal training program specifically designed to work with Metabolic Meals to transform your body and life. “You stick to the plan and have a professional to guide you,” José says. “If I can do it, anybody can do it.” For more information on Metabolic Meals, visit mymetabolicmeals.com. AFTER
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community
Justin and Julie Knight, beneficiaries of The Gifted Wedding
Say “I Do” to these organizations to help local couples in need. By Jessica Ruhlin
> Planning a wedding can be one of the most exciting experiences of a lifetime—that is, if you’re lucky. But, sometimes life is unpredictable, and getting to that happily ever after is more difficult than expected, or even impossible. Fortunately, these local wedding organizations make it possible to help couples create that special day— and encourage others to use their own celebrations to support charities close to their hearts. Wish Upon a Wedding Based on the principle that no one who is in love should be denied the opportunity to marry his or her soul mate, Wish Upon a Wedding organizes dream weddings and 54 ALIVE STL JANUARY 2012
Only the cake itself could be sweeter, and anyone can get a slice of the action. Consider adding your name or company to the St. Louis chapter of Wish Upon a Wedding’s list of resources, donated services and products to join the cause. You can also get involved by attending or donating to the annual “Blissful Wishes Ball” and auction, or by hosting your own fundraiser. Don “something blue” with the organization’s popular wish bracelets and wishing star pins, the proceeds of which benefit the organization. Or, select from charitable merchandise, like bookmarks and logo pins, to use as favors at your own wedding—or as inexpensive, charitable anytime gifts. The Gifted Wedding Two years after its launch, The Gifted Wedding puts together three Missouri weddings a year, joining couples of all religions, races and sexual orientations as they face illness, disability, military service and even natural disasters. Justin Knight, a quadriplegic, and his new wife and mother of two, Julie, married last July in Chesterfield with the help of The Gifted Wedding. A strong believer in the idea that the three most important things in life are family, friends and love,
The Gifted Wedding invites anyone to become a part of the family. You can help by donating your talent, including photography or dance lessons, food and beverages, or reusable décor such as candles and vases—which are not only used for ceremonies, but can also serve as auction items to raise money for other parts of the preparations. The “I Do” Foundation With the “I Do” Foundation, engaged couples create registries with participating companies (such as Target, Macy’s, Crate and Barrel, Pottery Barn and WilliamsSonoma), which donate a percentage of their profits to the couples’ choice of over 1.5 million charities. “I Do” also offers gift cards to present to wedding guests, so each individual can redeem his or her card toward a cause that’s personal to them. Incorporating charitable giving into events is a “great way to share love with the world on a special day,” says Candy Culver from JustGive, the company that powers “I Do” donations. Culver speaks passionately of how a wedding is a chance for couples to celebrate their union and also show their values—charity and joy make one happy marriage. Donations are always accepted, but Culver says another way to help is simply through spreading the word. If not wedding fever, then wedding “fervor,” at least, is catching on. > For more info, and to get involved with these organizations, visit wishuponawedding. org/st.louis, thegiftedwedding.com and idofoundation.org. alivemag.com
Photo by Under Grace Photo.
Get Involved: Weddings at Work
vow renewal ceremonies for couples who have encountered life-altering circumstances—particularly when one of them has less than five years to live. It helps people focus on their day of celebration, even when life has dealt them a rough hand.
Destination: The Loop Explore the latest hotspots on Delmar.
HIRO
THREE KINGS
Serving everything from vegan to meat lover tapas-style dishes, HIRO is putting a new twist on sushi by adding fresh fruit, raw beef and truffle oil in their sushi rolls. Stop by on Wednesdays and Sundays for weekly “all you can eat sushi” night. On Mondays and Thursdays enjoy $5 specialty martinis and wine. Serving lunch under $10 (Mon.Fri.) and dinner nightly.
After opening earlier this year, Three Kings has quickly become a neighborhood staple in The Loop. Three Kings offers a slight gastronomic change of pace from the throngs of other Mediterranean restaurants with its burgers, Reubens and classic pub fare like mussels, fish and chips and sliders. Three Kings is a great lunch or dinner stop, and with live music Saturday nights and no cover charge, it’s also a popular weekend hotspot. Join us for happy hour Sunday-Thursday from 10pm-Close.
Enjoy free Wifi and a heated smoking porch. Blueberry Hill now accepts Bear cards! This St. Louis landmark restaurant and music club is filled with pop culture memorabilia. Famous for its hamburgers, jerk chicken, trout almondine, homemade soups, chili, salads, vegetarian specials and breakfast all day. Darts, pinball, video games and photo booth. Live touring and local bands electrify the Duck Room. Excellent choice for private parties. Open every day of the year!
609 EASTGATE AVE. • 314.721.9168 HIROSTL.COM
6307 Delmar Blvd. • 314.721.3355 Threekingspub.com
6504 DELMAR BLVD. • 314.727.4444 BLUEBERRYHILL.COM
DEVIL CITY
PIZAZZ FURNITURE
sushi and modern japanese izakaya
SUBTERRANEAN BOOKS
One of St. Louis’ great independent bookstores, we’re legendary for our curious and wonderful selection. We’re heavy in the literature, pop culture and history sections, but we are also proud of our children’s, poetry and design areas. We sell eBooks, t-shirts, magazines and anything else we feel like adding into the mix. We’re everything a neighborhood bookstore should be.
Devil City offers a blend of some of the oldest American brands, products that are made in the USA, and items that are unique and rebellious in nature. Devil City pays tribute to the craftsmanship of years prior, mixing old concepts with current lifestyles. Some of the men’s brands offered are Filson, Pendleton, Redwing, Rockmount and Stronghold. Steal the scene in a vintage-inspired pinup dress from brands like Stop Staring!, PinUp Couture, Heartbreaker and Collectif.
6275 DELMAR • 314.862.6100 SUBBOOKS.COM
6301 Delmar Blvd. • 314.863.8080 devilcity.com ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
BLUEBERRY HILL
For those who love their furniture with a little flair, Pizazz offers alternative home furnishings at affordable prices. You won’t find this type of furniture anywhere else. Even better, Pizazz furniture is downsized to better fit into small spaces—perfect for apartments and city living. Swing by to see the latest designs, all at reasonable prices. Open 11am-6pm, Mon.-Sat, and 12-6pm, Sun. 6254 Delmar Blvd. • 314.863.7709 pizazzfurniture.com
community
Social Scene: Denim & Diamonds “Black & White” Gala November 12 ∑ Supporters of Saint Louis University Liver Center gathered in the Khorassan Room at Chase Park Plaza for the ninth annual Denim & Diamonds “Black & White” Gala. Guests donned black and white cocktail attire and enjoyed a lively cocktail hour and lavish three-course meal, as well as live and silent auctions. Honorary chairperson Father Lawrence Biondi, president of Saint Louis University, and Emcee John Pertzborn, anchor of KTVI’s FOX 2 in the Morning, announced the 2011 recipient of the Naomi Judd Award and the Volunteer of the Year Award during a special dinner presentation. The night closed out with dancing and live music by Cashmere. Photos by Kristen Baker/ALIVE Scene Team. For more photos, log onto alivemag.com/photos.
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1 Matt and Leslie Hodges 2 John Pertzborn of KTVI FOX 2 3 Lynn Ross, C.J. Tatum & Robin Ude
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Social Scene: Bell Bottom Ball November 5 ∑ Dancing queens and kings dusted off their finest disco-wear for the Bell Bottom Ball, hosted by the St. Martha’s Hall Junior Board. Guests at the ’70s-themed soiree enjoyed a costume contest, dancing and a silent auction at Club 1530 in the Systems Graphics Warehouse, with complimentary dinner and drinks. Proceeds benefited St. Martha’s Hall, the Catholic Charities of Missouri shelter for abused women and children, aiding in the quest to break the cycle of domestic violence. Photos by Emilie Graul/ALIVE Scene Team. For more photos, log onto alivemag.com/photos.
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1 56 ALIVE STL JANUARY 2012
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1 Bridget Andrews, Carey Daly & Megan Rebore 2 Paul & Amy Atkinson 3 Tom and Rachelle Shipley alivemag.com
LIMITED TICKETS AVAILABLE. TO PURCHASE TICKETS, VISIT ALIVEMAG.COM.
Bride
ANNUA L B R I DA L E V E N T & FAS H I O N S H OW
THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2012, 6–9PM LUMEN PRIVATE EVENT SPACE AT 22ND & LOCUST
Join us for ALIVE Bride, St. Louis’ premier bridal event and fashion show. Experience the top wedding vendors in town while enjoying light appetizers and complimentary beer by Anheuser-Busch. View the most beautiful bridal gowns from Fleur De Lis Bridal Boutique and bridesmaids dresses from Bella Bridesmaid.
T I C K E TS VIP EXPERIENCE $15 online pre-sale Featuring complimentary Pearl Wedding Cake cocktails and the ALIVE Bride gift bag. GENERAL ADMISSION $10 online pre-sale; $15 at the door Log on to alivemag.com to purchase tickets.
F E AT U R I N G VENUES • REHEARSAL DINNERS • STATIONERY STORES • GIFT REGISTRY • PHOTOGRAPHERS • WEDDING PLANNERS • SALONS • SPAS • CATERERS • BAKERIES • MEN’S FORMAL WEAR • LINGERIE • FLORISTS • LINENS • JEWELERS • LIMOS/TRANSPORTATION • TRAVEL COMPANIES • DESTINATION WEDDING • FINANCIAL PLANNING • ENTERTAINMENT
®
A S F E AT U R E D I N
DOWNTOWN'S PREMIER EVENT SPACE FROM
AND THE PEPPER LOUNGE • MANDARIN LOUNGE • EL BORRACHO
AVAILABLE FOR WEDDINGS, RECEPTIONS, AND PRIVATE EVENTS ACCOMMODATING UP TO 600 GUESTS FOR DETAILS AND RESERVATIONS PLEASE CONTACT INFO@LUMENSTL.COM
Photography: Pam Brendenkamp/Jon Koch/Tim McDermott Photography
“From the food to how smoothly everything went it was just plain amazing and one of the best nights” —Lumen Bride “Thanks again for all of the hard work that you and your staff put into our wedding! Everything was fantastic and many of our guests said it was the best wedding they had ever been to!!” —Lumen Bride 2201 LOCUST STREET | 314.241.5757 | WWW.LUMENSTL.COM
alive bride January 2012
Photo by Megan Thiele / Megan Thiele Studios
The top wedding news, trends, styles and more all inside.
alivemag.com
january 2012 ALIVE STL 59
alive bride
| news
Style Files
Love is in the air, as a number of shops stock up on the best in wedding wear. By Jill Manoff
Badgley Mischka at Berrybridge Bridal. Adding to a considerable selection
of bridal gowns by the industry’s top designers, including Vera Wang and Anne Barge, Berrybridge Bridal owners Janey Thompson and Marie Brauer recently acquired Badgley Mischka Bridal. Sold in STL exclusively at the Ladue-based boutique, Mark Badgley and James Mischka’s wedding-catered collection offers brides Old Hollywood-style, feminine gowns with intricate embellishments—and possibly good luck built in; “Sex and the City’s” Charlotte York wore the label in her second wedding to Harry. 9904 Clayton Rd., Ladue, 314.997.1439. Ivanka Trump Fine Jewelry Collection at Elleard Heffern.
A mogul in her own right, Ivanka Trump recently turned her passion for jewelry into the first business to carry her own name. The weddingperfect Ivanka Trump Fine Jewelry Collection, composed of unique jewels that “rock tradition,” was recently picked up by Elleard Heffern Fine Jewelry in Clayton. Described as “heirloom-chic jewelry,” the modern line is inspired by standout vintage styles from the ’20s to the ’60s—and has already earned a number of awards (No. 1 New Fine Jewelry Collection for 2011 by United Brands) as well as fans on and off the red carpet. Blake Lively, Jennifer Lopez and Natalie Portman are among the many stars who’ve been spotted in Trump’s statement pieces. 101 S. Hanley Rd., Clayton, 314.863.8820.
Badgley Mischka gown
been revolutionized. If you’ve long equated borrowed black-tie wear with pleated pants and boxy jackets, you’re in luck; tapered tuxedos with narrow lapels and flat-front pants are new to Savvi for 2012, as are fitted shirts in white and ivory variations. In addition, as cummerbunds are back, Savvi has stocked up on the style, along with matching bow ties. Multiple locations, savviformalwear.com.
The Sweetest Thing Recently opened online dessert shop Just Sweets offers gifts that keep on giving, with sweet subscriptions to offerings like sweet buns, raspberry criss-cross squares, chocolate babka and ginger honey mini-cakes. Made with fair-trade, organic and local ingredients, these treats are as easy on the conscience as they are on the sweet tooth. A three-, six- or 12-month gift subscription delivers a different dessert each month to the recipient—a thoughtful thank-you treat for the wedding party, or a sweet gift for the newly wedded couple. Fan favorites also make for great wedding favors or dessert stations on the big day. Visit justsweetsdesserts.com for more info. A Sip of Cake
STL-based Pearl Vodka recently added a new flavor to its mix that’s making cocktailhappy brides grin from ear to ear. Aptly named Wedding Cake, the spirit carries rich flavors of vanilla and almond, with just a hint of buttercream. Pair it with pomegranate and Prosecco for a sparkling rosé cocktail, or with chocolate syrup and half and half for a sweet dessert martini. Visit pearlweddingcake.com to find more recipes for novelty cocktails to dress up your reception.
60 ALIVE STL january 2012
alivemag.com
Top left photo courtesy of Badgley Mischka; left photo courtesy of Just Sweets.
Modern Tuxedos at Savvi Formalwear. The rented tuxedo has just
Fabulous Fabrics
Add elegance to your next event with luxe linens from Weinhardt Party Rentals
Weinhardt Party Rentals is a full-service rental company and offers several linen collections to choose from for your next event. Choose rich fabrics and textures from our Luxury Collection, subtle elegance from our Lamour Satin Collection, patterns and prints from our Specialty Collection or an array of colors from our Traditional Collection.
RUN FOR YOUR MONE Y Using a sleek table runner is an affordable and inexpensive way to add the perfect element to your table. Create a symmetrical focal point with our Roses are Red or Burgundy Tuxedo Runners.
WITH COMPLEMENTS... Instead of choosing a single color though the room, entice the senses with a variety of colors. Use linens of complementary hues to accent your existing décor and add a designer touch to your table. Melt our warm Caramel Florence Damask with Champagne Lamour Satin.
DRESS IN LAY ERS Many events use only one selective cloth for all the tables. To create your personal look, add several colored and textured linens to create depth and beauty in your design. Try adding a Victorian Lilac Crinkle overlay to a Platinum Silver Embroidered Taffeta.
Now that you’ve combined the perfect linens, don’t forget to add china, glassware and flatware to complete your design. Combine round & square China patterns and coordinated Verras stemware for the finishing touches.
11601 Manchester Rd. • Des Peres - 5901 Elizabeth Ave. • St. Louis - WeinhardtPartyRentals.com • 314.422.9000 ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
alive bride
| style
Wedding Belles
“Always a bridesmaid” has a nice ring to it, now that going to the chapel means wearing a fabulous frock.
Emerald City A popular one- shoulder neckline and pleated skirt elevate an already stunning jeweltoned dress.
Pickpocketed Handy compartments and a cummerbund waist make a ball gown anything but basic.
Short Cuts A ruched bodice and knee-length hem take a poppy pink frock from feminine to flirty.
By Jill Manoff Photos by Carmen Troesser
It was a prenuptial agreement
of sorts; your gal pals agreed to go along with the hoopla that inevitably pairs with being a bridesmaid because you promised to avoid the heinous section when selecting their matching frocks. Piece of cake. But, with so many fab dresses flooding boutique aisles, deciding on the absolute best for your bridesmaids-to-be has led to Bridezilla-inducing stress. Breathe, and look to the hottest trends for styles all parties will love. Asymmetrical necklines, thick, cummerbund-inspired waistbands and forgiving pleats make for gowns that are as flattering as they are fashionable. Pick from jewel tones or brights, satin or chiffon—and consider your support system content, rather than your “something blue.” From left: Alfred Sung bridesmaid dress available at Simply Elegant Bridal, Downtown, 314.241.8201. Vince Camuto heels available at Macy’s, Saint Louis Galleria, 314.726.1810. Bella Collection clutch available at Apricot Lane, Chesterfield Mall, 636.537.1161. Headband available at Cha, Ladue, 314.993.8080. Pearl bracelets available at CODI, Town & Country, 636.227.2634. B2 bridesmaid dress available at Town & Country Bridal Boutique, Plaza Frontenac, 314.991.5400. Dyeables heels available at Simply Elegant Bridal, Downtown, 314.241.8201. La Regale clutch available at Ivy Hill, Central West End, 314.367.7004. Hair pin available at Fleur De Lis Bridal Boutique, 314.721.2457. Pearl earrings available at CODI, Town & Country, 636.227.2634. Amsale bridesmaid dress available at Bella Bridesmaid, Town & Country, 314.205.1191. Nina heels, Nelle clutch and M. Flynn earrings available at Bella Bridesmaid, Town & Country, 314.205.1191. Deepa Gurnani headband available at Alixandra Collections, Ladue, 314.997.2360.
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alivemag.com
s
Hilton t. Louis Frontenac Y
our Wedding day is a life changing event and when the dedicated staff of the Hilton St. Louis Frontenac caters to your needs you can be assured that your guests will leave with a memorable experience. No detail of your wedding reception goes unnoticed by our wedding professionals. From the rehearsal dinner to the bouquet toss and everything in between, we are dedicated to flawless coordination and unmatched personal service.
W
hether you choose the Ambassadeur or the Clayton Ballroom, your guests will be enchanted with our historic splendor, polished service and spectacular cuisine. Our well appointed guest rooms and suites offer comfort & style in one of St. Louis’ most prestigious communities.
For personalized service please contact our wedding professionals to book your reception and overnight accommodations.
314.993.1100
1335 South Lindbergh Boulevard St. Louis MO 63131 www.stlouisfrontenac.hilton.com Bride photo by Tom Paule Photography
alive bride
| style
Fit To Be Tied This isn’t your senior prom; forego the rented ascot in favor of the ever-classy bow tie. By Jill Manoff Photo by Carmen Troesser
Gone are the days of the cookie-cutter penguin suit. Today, there are more tuxedos and wedding-perfect accessories than you can shake a cane at (tip: don’t work a cane). Among the numerous new standout options, one can easily be hailed the season’s most popular wedding crasher: the bright bow tie. A traditional silhouette with a contemporary flair, the style is best when bold—composed of stripes, polka dots or a paisley print. But, consider yourself forewarned: If many complement both your suit and the bridal party’s dress, deciding on just one could prove as complicated as memorizing your vows. We’ll leave it up to you, because—in our eyes—they’re all neck and neck.
From left: Carrot & Gibbs bow tie available at Woody’s, Frontenac, 314.569.3272. Robert Talbott bow tie available at Mister Guy, Ladue, 314.692.2003. Hanauer bow tie available at Mister Guy, Ladue, 314.692.2003. Private Stock bow tie available at Woody’s, Frontenac, 314.569.3272. Hanauer bow tie available at Mister Guy, Ladue, 314.692.2003. Hanauer bow tie available at Mister Guy, Ladue, 314.692.2003. Carrot & Gibbs bow tie available at Woody’s, Frontenac, 314.569.3272.
64 ALIVE STL january 2012
alivemag.com
alive bride
| rings
Diamond Ring custom made by Décor Interiors & Jewelry, 13476 Olive Street Rd., Chesterfield, 314.434.4022.
Tiffany Bezet diamond ring with pave diamond setting in platinum, Tiffany & Co., 64 Plaza Frontenac, 314.692.2255.
Designer Engagement Ring with cushion-cut center diamond, surrounded by round and trapezoid-cut diamonds, Diamond & Jewelry Brokers, 473 Lafayette Center, 636.391.6622. Emily Ring, 14-karat white gold with micro-pave halo, Mavrík Fine Jewelry & Diamonds, 200 S. Kirkwood Rd., 314.909.6818.
Put a Ring On It
T
By Jill Manoff
he fact that you have your heart set on an engagement ring with a halo setting (several stones wrapped around a center solitaire) has nothing to do with the “hugging” pave stones that make the center stone appear larger. Please! You’re a hopeless romantic. You love its vintage vibe, and the meaning behind the unbroken circle: unity. Lucky for you, it seems designers are just as sold on the style’s romantic symbolism, as they've been fashioning countless variations as of late—flip-flopping colored and clear stones as the piéce de résistance. Donned by celebs and duchesses alike, the look works with a slim or statement band, and complements a wedding of any caliber—even a “simple affair” with swans. You’re a fan of their “love and fidelity” connotation, of course.
Jenni's Engagement Ring, 14-karat white gold custom design by Mavrík Fine Jewelry & Diamonds, 200 S. Kirkwood Rd., 314.909.6818.
Tiffany Legacy diamond ring in platinum, Tiffany & Co., 64 Plaza Frontenac, 314.692.2255.
66 ALIVE STL january 2012
alivemag.com
Ring images courtesy of jewelry companies.
The halo setting is oh-so-heavenly—and among the hottest trends in engagement rings this year.
alive bride
| column
F.Y.brIde
The coulda, woulda, shoulda from a recent bride who still lived happily ever after. By Kate Allen
I
Photo by beth berry photography
t’s hard to believe that eight months have passed since we said “I Do.” As I look back— not only on my big day, but on the dozens I’ve covered for ALIVE and attended as a guest in the past year—I’ve picked up my fair share of coulda, woulda, shouldas that I’d be remiss not to pass along to the next bride in line. As you work your way from “recently ringed” to “happy honeymooners,” you’re sure to encounter a speed bump or two. But, don’t let it throw you off the path to happily ever after. Instead, troubleshoot this turmoil with tips and tricks from a been-there-done-that-bride.
Shoulda asked for more help. Whether
you need invitations addressed, seating chart support or petals scattered down the aisle, there are plenty of people who are happy to help you. I was what you might call a “control freak” bride. I wanted to do everything myself, and up until the moment I walked down the aisle, I was putting the finishing touches on the centerpieces. I was a mess and caused myself much more stress than was ever needed. Last month, I had the pleasure of watching my best friend get married, and I was in awe. A native of Cape Girardeau, she was planning her St. Louis wedding from New York City, a daunting task for any bride. She asked for help, friends rallied around her, and she was a perfect bride because of it. Not only did this take a lot off of her plate and allow her to enjoy the process, but it also kept her glowing and stress-free all day, and well into the night. Shoulda realized “Best Laid Plans” are nothing more than that. Anyone in the
event business will agree with this. No matter how long and hard you plan, something will go wrong. It may not be a catastrophic failure, but it’s virtually impossible for everything to go perfectly. Take the weather, for example—you simply can’t control it. I envisioned my outdoor evening ceremony at the Contemporary Art Museum perfectly. There was a sunset, and my hair was down, blowing in a gentle breeze. But, when Mother Nature decided to rain on my parade—and bring gale-force winds along for the ride—my perfect wedding hair was ruined. I opted instead for a simple ponytail that was much more “me,” and every time I look back on those wedding photos, I thank Mother Nature for working for me, not against me. Woulda prioritized better. Weddings are
expensive. But, once you’ve spent thousands, what’s a few hundred more? Don’t cut corners on the things that are important to you. Instead, find a way to 68 ALIVE STL january 2012
make a sacrifice somewhere else. Flowers weren’t my thing, but I had a clear vision for my centerpieces. Literally, like the Bridezilla I was, these beauties came to me in a dream. And, at the advice of a friend, I trusted them to someone who “does weddings on the side.” Not the best advice I’ve ever gotten. If there’s one thing about the wedding that you absolutely have to get right, invest the time and/or money to get it right. Skimp on the dress and splurge on the shoes. Skimp on the invites and go for the top-shelf bar. Work within your budget, but prioritize the bells and whistles. Coulda been more prepared. This is a tough
one. I mean prepared in every sense of the word: physically, emotionally, literally. Sure, maybe I could have hit the gym a few more times, but that’s the “coulda” that concerns me least. It’s the emotional stuff that really takes the toll on you. No one really prepares you for this, but there’s an outside chance that you might not love being a bride. Don’t get me wrong, my wedding day was the best day of my life, but I was not a good bride in the idealistic sense of the word. Some of us just aren’t built for the
spotlight, and that’s okay. The most important thing to remember is to be you. Don’t be a “bride”—be you. A lot of brides get this really distorted idea of what a “bride” is and conform to it. Don’t do that. People love you and want to celebrate you for who you are, so there’s no need to smile and wave for the crowd if that’s not your thing. Woulda trusted a friend with my camera. The best advice I can give as a bride is to
give your personal camera to a friend. Pick someone close to you, who will be spending the majority of the day with you and the bridal party. (A reader or friend-in-law are great options!) This way, when you and your groom head back to the hotel to jet off to your honeymoon, you’ll have plenty of memories to reflect on together without having to wait for the professional pics. Kate Allen is a regular contributing writer for ALIVE, who covers many of the Real Weddings featured in the magazine. In addition to her professional event planning experience, she has helped multiple brides plan and execute their big days.
alivemag.com
Your ceremony, rehearsal dinner, or reception is the event uniquely yours. We listen to what you want – and are dedicated and equipped to make your day beautiful beyond expectation.
Call today to schedule your one-on-one consultation and to tour our classic and unique facility – the Kemp Auto Museum.
K E MP M U S E U M S E R V I C E S 636-537-1718 • www.kempmuseumservices.com
StLouisMagBridal_Ad_HalfHorz.indd 1
Photo courtesy of Video Gate Studio
The Kemp Museum Services professional planners provide complete planning and implementation of your event – including décor, catering, entertainment, and more. From our first meeting to the last guest leaving, we are there with you every step of the way.
6/7/11 9:56 AM
alive bride
| registry
Breaking the Registry Mold Today’s couples are customizing the registry process and asking for exactly what they want.
B
By Katie Davis
ring up the topic of bridal registry around soon-to-be brides and grooms, and images of pristine china dishes, formal silverware and clear-cut crystal glasses traditionally come to mind. Yet, a growing number of engaged couples are opting for individualized gifts—from practical to fun and everything in between. We talked to four pros: Nancy Bischoff, owner of Byron Cade; Bill Mackin, vice president of gift galleries at Neiman Marcus; Megan Glynn, wedding and gift registry manager at Macy’s; and Diane Fogerty, owner of Savvy Surrounding Style, who shared their insights on breaking out of the registry mold in the name of bridal gifts that couples actually want—not what they think they should get.
Gizmos ’n’ Gadgets Follow the “couple-that-
plays-together-stays-together” mantra and ask for some fun gadgets that encourage you to spend quality time with each other once the wedding 70 ALIVE STL january 2012
madness has subsided. For the foodie types, fun kitchen appliances that encourage do-it-yourself thinking, including cookie presses, popover pans and ice cream makers make for unique registry picks. If you prefer electronic gadgets over kitchen toys, LCD screens, GPS trackers and cameras might be a better fit. For the right couple, even air hockey tables, iPod stations and video games are great out-of-the-box registry requests. Pretty Little Things If there’s ever a time to
ask for something that’s elaborate, eye-catching or artistic, it’s before a wedding. Don’t be afraid to register for higher-priced items, such as paintings, sculptures and other home décor, as long as you also include a number of practical, more reasonably priced items on your list. By creating one or two themes throughout your registry, friends and family can not only get a feel for what types of items you’re hoping to receive, but also the overall look and feel you’re trying to achieve within your home. If you’re looking for fewer statement pieces and more functional items, register for accessories to finish off a room. Cozy fur blankets or hand-painted picture frames provide style and comfort, while contemporary office items or silver flatware make for useful gifts that can still contribute to the aesthetic of a space. Requesting monogrammed engravings is also a great way to make your gifts personal and even more attractive to the eye.
Updating the Basics Even though couples are
branching out and deciding to register for more offbeat gifts, you might still want a few traditional pieces to replace outdated items, entertain future guests or fill up space in a new home. A good way to spice up some of these everyday items is to register for a few accent pieces that will shake up the whole look of a table or room and give it a more modern spin. For example, if you register for blue and white porcelain dishes, ask for bright orange vases or an eclectic serving tray to liven up the collection and complement the classic saucers, plates and cups you’ll receive. If you already own said sets—or you’ve inherited them—there’s always room to brighten up or update old pieces with those that are new and unique. Truly Alternative If the last thing you want is more “stuff,” and you’re ready to really shake things up, go completely registry-rogue and invest in something even larger. Honeymoon funds have been catching on since the ’90s, but many couples still don’t know how to organize and register for a trip that others can help them pay for. Websites such as honeyluna.com and thebigday.com specialize in helping soon-to-be newlyweds set up and plan the honeymoons of their dreams. If you prefer to work directly with a travel agent, these sites can check into the various agencies in your area. Many of them not only offer an option to set up a honeymoon fund, but also provide additional bonuses or trip counseling just for using their services. alivemag.com
Catering to unique St. Louis venues including: City Museum | the Foundry Art Centre The Mahler Ballroom | The Sheldon Concert Hall Neo on Locust | The Jewel Box Kemp Auto Museum and World’s Fair Pavilion in Forest Park See our website for additional locations.
We can help with all of the aspects of your wedding including rentals and entertainment.
City Museum
The Jewel Box
The Sheldon Concert Hall
World’s Fair Pavilion
Banquet facilities for 50-800 guests Wedding Ceremonies and Receptions Rehearsal dinners - Bridal Showers
314-638-6660
www.orlandogardens.com
www.gregoryscreativecuisine.com or gmchef@yahoo.com
alive bride
| engagements
Recently Ringed
Three St. Louis couples share their engagement stories.
Jean Crompton, 24 & James Patrick Schmidt, 23
How We Met
How We Met
Alison and I first met at the office in 2000. We worked together at an entertainment company, but in different departments. One evening, I was in the elevator leaving for the day, and Alison walked in to join me. I said hello and made small talk. I noticed her big blue eyes and thought, “Wow, she’s cute!” A few weeks later, we attended a company party at Blueberry Hill’s Duck Room, and I asked Alison to dance with me. Our relationship grew out of those long-ago moments on the dance floor!
James and I met at Alleman High School in Rock Island, IL. He took my best friend to the homecoming dance freshman year. She was not interested in James, but I thought he was cute and saved him from being totally ditched at the dance. We really got to know each other the next week, and I said to him, “If you asked me out, I would say yes.” He did, and we have been together ever since. I went to SIU-Edwardsville and James went to the University of Missouri. After he graduated, we lived together in St. Louis for a short while before he moved to Florida for a job. It can be hard to be apart, but it’s worth it.
The Proposal
In October, I arranged a private tour of the current exhibition at the Contemporary Art Museum, which was led by the former museum director Paul Ha. Paul walked us through each gallery, describing the vision and technique that went into creating each work of art. We ended the tour in the Front Room, a small gallery space where there were two bold photographs and artist Donald Baechler’s “The Lucky Ring” print. After Paul gave an explanation of the art on display in the room, he stepped out to let us view the pieces on our own. I grabbed the Baechler diamond ring print off the wall, got down on one knee and popped the question—using the piece of art as the ring! (Don’t worry, there was an actual ring as well.) Alison was totally surprised and said “yes!” She is my best friend, a true partner, and I adore her immeasurably—I am so happy and excited to marry this fantastic woman! P.S. Donald Baechler’s “The Lucky Ring” is now hanging in our home! The Big Day
Winter 2012, location TBD.
The Proposal
James flew in to visit for Mizzou’s Homecoming, so I picked him up from the airport. He had been telling me that he wanted to go to Arch Park and see the Mississippi first thing, so we headed straight there. We found a bench near the river, and he gave me my anniversary gift: a scrapbook he’d made of all our years together. I assumed this was the surprise he’d been hinting at all week. As we walked closer to the river, he said my full name, “Jean Danielle Crompton.” I looked at him like he was crazy; then, he got down on his knee and held up the ring. I was thinking, “Oh my God!” over and over in my head, but it turns out I was saying it out loud, too! I didn’t even hear him ask the question; I just grabbed the ring and said “yes.” He stood up and pulled me into a big hug. Up on the sidewalk, three guys who were walking past started cheering for us, which was just enough public attention to make it feel real.
Kelly Yehling, 27 & Mike Reiter, 28 How We Met
Mike and I met at a party when I was 13 years old, shortly after his family moved back to St. Louis from Washington D.C. Over the next few years, we stayed in touch and eventually became close friends. Mike joined the Marines in 2001, and he came to say goodbye to me the day he left for boot camp. We had our first kiss standing outside his red Ford Ranger in my parents’ driveway. The Proposal
Mike proposed to me on July 22, 2011. We had been planning on having a date night all week, and I was really excited to hang out since we’d been having such a busy summer. We were getting ready to walk out the door when he went out to get something from the garage. I was switching purses for our night out, and when I walked back into the living room ready to go, he just looked at me for a moment, then got down on his knee and asked me to marry him. It was so sweet and simple and perfect. I was completely surprised! I think I asked if it was a joke before I said “yes!” Mike and I had been talking about getting married for a long time, but he had me convinced that it would be a while before we walked down the aisle. We celebrated that night with friends and family at our favorite bar. I found out later that night that my ring, a beautiful cushion-cut diamond in a split shank halo setting, had been in our basement in his hunting bow’s box for months. He definitely picked the perfect hiding spot!
The Big Day
November 10, 2012 at Christ the King Church in Moline, IL and reception at the University Club of Moline.
The Big Day
January 20, 2012 at Queen of All Saints in St. Louis and reception at Andre’s West.
Recently ringed? Email your story to jennifer@alivemag.com, and your engagement moment could be featured in ALIVE! 72 ALIVE STL january 2012
alivemag.com
Edited by Melissa Grubbs; photos courtesy of the couples.
Alison Sieloff, 34 & Sam Foxman, 37
Let Bogey Hills Country Club take care of all of the details to ensure your day is perfect! We have a selection of affordable, all-inclusive Wedding Packages and offer great spaces for Bridal Showers or Rehearsal Dinners. Experience the elegance of an indoor Reception or beauty of an outdoor Ceremony at Bogey Hills Country Club! www.bogeyhillscc.com For more information about planning your ceremony and reception or another wedding event, please call Allison Walters at (636)946-6250
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| real weddings
The Couple Ellen Fitzsimmons, 25, Clinical Psychology PhD Student & Tim Craft, 27, Video Editor and Motion Graphics Designer
Well-Crafted Sophisticated DIY elements and vintage touches make for an original way to tie the knot. By Jennifer Wells Photos by Brea Photography
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hen Ellen and Tim Craft began planning their wedding, they were sure to have a hand in every element. The couple’s playful mix of handmade décor with carefully selected vintage items made for a warm and charming ceremony that made their guests feel right at home. Although the story of their courtship has taken them across continents, it all started right here in St. Louis. Ellen and Tim first met as teenagers while working together at Ted Drewes. The pair
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quickly became good friends, but it wasn’t until years later (and one serendipitous midnight walk in the park) that they realized they were destined to be together. Eventually, the adventurous young couple indulged in a fun-filled trip to Ireland, where Tim popped the question. They began planning immediately and decided to get married in front of family and friends, where they could display their artistic talents in the form of heartfelt wedding décor. Vintage Variety
The bride and groom began collecting vintage pieces for their wedding almost immediately after getting engaged. In lieu of traditional centerpieces, antique vases made of milk glass mingled with vintage books and functioned as lovely and unique wedding décor. Local florist Bloomin’ Buckets brought the vintage look to life with a splash of peonies, dahlias and billy balls. A vintage suitcase (a reminder of their fateful trip to Ireland) was chosen to hold wedding
cards and served as a romantic departure from the traditional decorated box. Personalized to Perfection
Handmade poufs made of tissue paper and fabric in washed-out shades of pink and cream hung on satin ribbon throughout the venue. Ellen crafted each one months before the wedding—a labor of love. A huge banner, also made by the bride, provided the perfect backdrop to wedding party photos, and lent a definite air of nostalgia to the event. Handmade invitations (which rightfully garnered much pre-wedding attention) were a family affair. Ellen, Tim and Ellen’s sister, Jane, all played a part in their design and creation. Love at First Sight
Although it took Ellen and Tim a while to realize they were destined to be together, it wasn’t so with the dress. Ellen was clicking her way through a wedding blog when she stumbled upon the dress of her dreams. Simple, with an A-line cut and strapless
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neckline, it was exactly what Ellen was looking for. She was even more delighted to find out that the dress was made mostly of cotton, which fit in nicely with her easy but elegant aesthetic. Home Sweet Home
Although the St. Louis couple is currently living away from home in Carraboro, NC, it was important for them to get married in their hometown, and to incorporate as much of St. Louis as possible. They took photos at many of their favorite local landmarks, including Forest Park and the Muny, and their last photo opp was at Ted Drewes (where they first met). It was there that the entire wedding party commenced to indulge in a sweet treat—on the house, of course—as is the tradition at the St. Louis frozen custard staple. Inspired Attire
The bride and groom went out of their way to avoid being too matchy-matchy, especially where wedding
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attire was concerned. As an alternative to stiff tuxedos, the men wore gingham dress shirts with suits. In addition to traditional ivory, a wash of muted pink and peach floral detail enhanced the back of Ellen’s dress. Her shoes, from the Anthropologie Bridal Collection, spoke to her classic, yet eclectic sense of personal style. Food for Thought
From the rehearsal dinner (held in a backyard tent) to Ellen and Tim’s elegant plated wedding dinner at the Forest Park Visitor Center, everything was 100 percent vegetarian. By the time the delicious wedding meal was over, any misgivings about vegetarian dining were quietly put to rest as guests were busy enjoying fresh salads topped with gouda-filled beggar’s purses and sumptuous butternut squash ravioli. Ultimately, to Ellen and Tim’s delight, most guests raved about the “amazing” food, and truly enjoyed the departure from the standard wedding fare.
january 2012 ALIVE STL 75
alive bride
| real weddings
The Couple
A Tale of Two Weddings An elaborate all-day affair unites two people—and two cultures—for life. By Jennifer Wells Photos by Tracey Bartmann-Leek / Love and Life Photography
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here culture was concerned, compromise was never an option for Mini and Zach Pancoast. The couple decided early on that watering down an Indian wedding for Christian consumption was not an option. Instead, the cross-cultural couple decided to properly honor both sides of the family with an elaborate day of unions, which included two wedding ceremonies—one Christian and one Hindu. 76 ALIVE STL january 2012
Open communication about the impending nuptials was never an issue for Mini and Zach, who are both known for their talkative personalities. Even on their first date, there was never an awkward silence as the chatty pair dined on Pan Asian cuisine and spent the rest of the warm summer night strolling the Central West End. Even now, as a married couple, the two rarely run out of topics of conversation. Grand Plans
Both weddings were celebrated Downtown in separate ballrooms at the Renaissance Grand. The first, a traditional Christian ceremony, was held in the extravagant Crystal Ballroom. The couple wowed guests with an impressive 20-person bridal party, plus a flower girl and ring bearer. The second ceremony took place in the Landmark Ballroom and was truly a visual treat for
the 300 guests. The beginning of the ceremony started with the Baraat, which celebrates the entrance of the groom and is symbolic of the groom’s introduction to his future in-laws. As planned, Zach arrived in dramatic fashion by horse and carriage to the beat of an Indian drummer. Traditionally, Hindu weddings are boisterous affairs with a celebratory tone, and Zach and Mini’s followed suit. After Zach's entrance, the couple and their families converged under the mandap (a canopy ornamented with an exotic mix of flowers and banana plants) to make it official. Beauty Rituals
Mini prepared for her wedding by hosting a mehndi at her house, a traditional Indian hand-painting ceremony. It took a little over an hour for the brideto-be to have both her hands and feet painted with henna. The result was a beautiful and intricate artistic display for Mini and her female family members. alivemag.com
Wedding planned and referred by Cosmopolitan Events.
Mini Tandon, 36, Physician & Zachary Robert Pancoast, 36, Attorney
Wardrobe Change
One of the benefits of having two weddings is choosing two dresses—and Mini was lucky enough to have three! The first was a traditional ivory gown in an elegant mermaid cut with a halter top and detailed beading. For the Hindu ceremony, she changed into a vibrant red lengha, filled with ornate brocade detailing. North Indian custom also dictates that the bride don an outfit gifted from her new in-laws. Mini happily obliged, as her in-laws couldn’t have chosen something more to her liking. She was thrilled with the royal-blue jewel-toned skirt and blouse they purchased for her final wedding ensemble. Birds of a Feather
Peacocks, the national bird of India, were a recurrent theme of the wedding. The vibrant, exotic plumage was a natural complement to fall’s rich palette, and the symbolism was alivemag.com
hard for Mini and Zach to resist. In many cultures, the peacock represents fidelity— indeed a worthy theme for any new union. The feathers were incorporated into the invitations as well as multiple decorative backdrops; an ice sculpture was created in the form of the regal bird and one peacock feather glamorously adorned each jeweltoned place setting. Celebrate Good Times
As major music aficionados, Mini and Zach couldn’t choose just one song for their first dance, so they chose instead to create a personalized five-song remix. To get the party started, the couple included both American and Indian selections for their repertoire. The party mix was indeed a success, as it kept guests dancing from the beginning of the reception until the staff turned the lights back on at the end of the night. january 2012 ALIVE STL 77
alive bride
| real weddings
The Couple Alexis Cosse, 39, Sr. Vice President, CAO of the Financial Services Group at Wells Fargo Advisors & Erik Karanik, 42, Managing Director, National Director of Operations, Private Client Group at Wells Fargo Advisors
Eat, Drink & Get Married Artistic and gourmet touches abound at this lavishly catered union. By Jennifer Wells | Photos by Jon Koch
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lexis and Erik Karanik are no strangers to entertaining. About every six weeks, the couple hosts a themed dinner party for both family and friends. They enjoy cooking and dining together, but for more formal in-home soirees, they call in the big guns. More often than not, they use Chef John at Entre Underground, so it was only natural that they selected the well-known caterer for their most important party to date—their wedding.
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This couple's mutual appreciation for the culinary arts is no coincidence—much of their courtship was spent perusing local restaurants in search of outstanding cuisine. Their first “official” date was at Frazer’s, where the fellow foodies first fell in love. Alexis and Erik's ultimate mission was to create a warm and inviting environment—not unlike that of their in-home dinner parties. And, they stayed true to their entertaining philosophy in creating an elegant, yet comfortable affair. FOODIE FARE
The pair wanted to showcase their heritage in the food they selected. The groom’s family is Italian and the bride’s family is both French and Italian. So, Italian fare with Creole flair served as inspiration for the eclectic menu. Even the centerpieces were inspired by food, using artichokes, apples, grapes and other culinary textures to spice up the table arrangements. For those who truly ap-
preciate food as art, the menu read like poetry. A charcuterie board was accompanied by a selection of light nibbles such as oyster po-boy bruschetta made with fried oysters, pepper jelly and smoked lavash. The elaborate cocktail menu was followed by three meticulously executed courses, including such delicacies as Missouri freshwater prawn shooters served with spaghetti alla bottarga. Dessert followed suit with a creative selection of four taste-tempting options, including a gourmet spin on a St. Louis classic—gooey butter cake with blackberry gastrique. As if that wasn’t enough, a hot dog cart serving “designer” dogs capped off the evening. FAVOR FLAVOR
In lieu of traditional wedding favors, Alexis and Erik celebrated their love of cooking by creating a custom cookbook for their guests. In addition to sharing their favorite recipes, the couple also included personal stories and
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anecdotes about the times they’ve shared in the kitchen. To the delight of guests, the reception’s main course (stuffed lamb saddle and porchetta-style pork shoulder) was also featured in the cookbook.
much consideration, he purchased a custom-designed multi-stone bauble created by the couple’s friend, jeweler Adam Foster of Adam Foster Fine Art Jewelry. He carried it around for two weeks, just waiting to find the right moment to pop the question.
A JEWEL OF A VENUE
The bride and groom wowed their guests with a ceremony at the Jewel Box in Forest Park. It was actually the first time a ceremony had been held in “the round”—a request that their wedding planner, Cosmopolitan Events, was delighted to be able to fulfill. An equally stunning reception was held at the Contemporary Art Museum, which further complemented their artistic take on traditional “I Dos.” BAUBLED BLISS
The groom wanted a unique ring that was truly symbolic of their relationship, so Erik embarked on a solo journey to find the perfect one. After
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A DRESS TO IMPRESS
When it was time to shop for a dress, Alexis knew she wanted something designed to complement her specific sense of style and creativity. She opted to forgo the traditional princess aesthetic, and instead chose to have something custom made. The result was a chic silver dress, constructed with a removable lower panel that took Alexis from ceremony to reception with ease. The dress was handmade by Connie Simpson at R&M Designs, and looked stunning with the strappy Manolo Blahnik sandals and bouquet by Fleurish that Alexis selected for her big day.
january 2012 ALIVE STL 79
Country Strong
The perfect mix of fun and romance, informality and elegance,
B
By Kate Allen | Photos by Brea Photography, Jon Koch Photography, Kelly Pratt Photography, MNC Photography & Untamed Heart Photography
rides all across the metro area are hiking up their gowns and getting down with this year’s hottest wedding trend: country. Whether you’re looking for a dash of down home or a concentration of country, there’s a way to infuse the sweet simplicity of a country wedding into your “I Dos” with the help of these local couples.
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alivemag.com
Photos courtesy of MNC Photography, mnc-photography.com.
Country Weddings are taking St. Louis by the horns.
Green Acres The Couple: Laura Unverferth & Thomas Coggins The Venue: The Unverferth Family Farm in Jackson, MO When it comes to finding the perfect pasture for your country fete, less is more. If you’re not lucky enough to have access to a private country setting, like Laura and Thomas, take advantage of a St. Louis treasure like Faust Park in Chesterfield, complete with a beautiful barn on its grounds (15185 Olive Boulevard, Chesterfield, 314.615.8328). If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, head west to Wright City’s Cedar Lake Cellars (11008 Schreckengast Rd., Wright City, 636.745.9500).
To Have and to Hold
Nothing says country like a fresh bundle of blooms (left). Take a cue from Mother Nature and stick to an earthy color palette. Laura’s delicate bouquet of muted colors (skillfully crafted by her sister) perfectly complements the delicate lace of her Sophia Tolli gown (Robin’s Bridal, 9993 Manchester Rd., Kirkwood, 314.822.7433).
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alive bride
| trends
The Couple: Alexa Kunz & Timothy Dombkowski The Cake: The Cup Luscious florals and a country theme go hand in hand—even on a cake. Bite-size sweets, like cupcakes, are a great way to offer your guests variety in a grab-and-go fashion that’s perfect for a laidback country affair. (The Cup, 28 Maryland Plaza, Central West End, 314.367.6111. Wedding topper by friend of the bride. Shot at The City Cottage, 3800 Chouteau Ave., Midtown, 314.961.7588, ext. 221).
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Left photo courtesy of Untamed Heart Photography, untamedheartphotography.com; Top right photo courtesy of MNC Photography, mnc-photography.com; Bottom photos courtesy of Jon Koch (first two images), kochphotography.net, and Untamed Heart Photography.
Love is Sweet
Country Cutie The Couple: Amanda Wobbe & Max Rehling The Shoes: Etsy b.Poetic Kick up your heels, or lack thereof, by going country from head to toe—like Amanda did with these Ben Franklin craft store flats, adorned with flowers by b.Poetic on etsy.com (Multiple locations, benfranklinstores.com. Shot at the Rehling Family Cottage in Maeystown, IL).
State Fare
The Couples: Hannah Roberts & Nicholas Graham and Meghan Murphy & Kerry Williams The caterers: Overlook Farm and The Blue Owl Country fixins aren’t all corn dogs and funnel cakes! Choose a caterer known for bringing country flavor, like bride Meghan’s choice of The Blue Owl for desserts (6116 2nd St., Kimmswick, 636.464.3128)—or a venue that uses all locally grown ingredients, such as Hannah’s venue, Overlook Farm—and you can’t go wrong (901 South Hwy 79, Clarksville, MO, 573.242.3838).
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| trends
Family Affair
Left photo courtesy of Brea Photography, breaphotography.com; Invitation photo courtesy of Kelly Pratt Photography, kellyprattphoto.com; all others, courtesy of MNC Photography, mnc-photography.com.
The Couple: Jennifer Leonard & Aaron Mancuso The Venue: Overlook Farm in Clarksville, MO Country is all about the influence of family and infusion of friends. Pay homage to the simpler times like Jennifer and Aaron did with family-style seating. Increase the intimacy with low lighting from lanterns, candles and simple overhead strands. Mason jars, bottled sodas and water carafes create a nod to simplicity while rich florals warm an otherwise informal table (901 South Hwy 79, Clarksville, MO, 573.242.3838).
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Every Little Thing She Does
The Couple: Laura Unverferth & Thomas Coggins The details: DIY Rustic brides leave no stone unturned when it comes to details. Start simple with the big picture, like venue and color scheme, but stun your guests with the intricacies of your details, many of which can be DIY. Laura and Thomas directed guests to the ceremony and reception with hand-painted wooden signs, and played up the country details for photos—turn to old trucks, wooden crates and farm machinery to create a bold contrast against the femininity and romance of your day. For a cute and country DIY favor, take a cue from this bride and purchase mason jars in bulk, and fill them with natural honey from local Missouri vendor Mo’Honey (573.243.6568, mohoney.homestead.com). alivemag.com
Rustic Requests
The Couple: Laura Nibberich & Mark Meyer The INVITes: etchedinvites.com To set the stage for her country wedding at Cedar Lake Cellars, bride Laura etched her and Mark's monogram into a recycled wood product for these gorgeous invites. Guests were so impressed with her handiwork that Laura created etchedinvites.com to recreate this look for brides across the country.
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alive bride
| fashion
A Walk to Remember Today’s top bridal trends hold true to tradition—and the effect is unforgettable. Photography + Art Direction by Attilio D’Agostino Styling by Jill Manoff Model: Elizabeth Klinge for Mother Model Management, mothermodelmanagement.com Makeup + Hair by Lisa Kalz, lisakalz.com Shot at the historic Maple Leaf Cottage Inn, Elsah, IL, mapleleafcottages.com.
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The Princess Bride
Gown available at Simply Elegant Bridal Boutique, Downtown, 314.241.8201. Ivanka Trump earrings available at Elleard Heffern Fine Jewelers, Clayton, 314.863.8820. Lady Bird Couture belt and headband available at ladybirdcouture.com, 314.578.8833.
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alive bride
| fashion
Sitting Pretty Gown available at Simply Elegant Bridal Boutique, Downtown, 314.241.8201. Ivanka Trump earrings available at Elleard Heffern Fine Jewelers, Clayton, 314.863.8820. Diamond ring available at MavrĂk Fine Jewelry & Diamonds, Kirkwood, 314.909.6818. Lady Bird Couture headband available at ladybirdcouture. com, 314.578.8833.
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Laced With Love Judd Waddell gown available at Fleur De Lis Bridal Boutique, Clayton, 314.721.2457. Diamond earrings, bracelet and ring available at MavrĂk Fine Jewelry & Diamonds, Kirkwood, 314.909.6818. Lady Bird Couture headband available at ladybirdcouture.com, 314.578.8833.
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alive bride
| fashion
Wedding Belle Vera Wang gown available at Berrybridge Bridal, Ladue, 314.997.1439. Ivanka Trump earrings, bracelet and ring available at Elleard Heffern Fine Jewelers, Clayton, 314.863.8820. Lady Bird Couture headband available at ladybirdcouture. com, 314.578.8833. Flower hair accessories, stylist’s own.
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Have a Ball Gown Christina Wu gown available at Kirkwood Bridal Boutique, Kirkwood, 314.821.8555. Diamond drop earrings available at DĂŠcor Interiors & Jewelry, Chesterfield, 314.434.4022. Diamond pendant and necklace available at MavrĂk Fine Jewelry & Diamonds, Kirkwood, 314.909.6818. Ivanka Trump bracelet available at Elleard Heffern Fine Jewelers, Clayton, 314.863.8820. Lady Bird Couture headband available at ladybirdcouture.com, 314.578.8833. Bouquet by Stems Florist, Florissant, 314.972.7836.
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| fashion
Flower Girl Liancarlo gown available at Fleur De Lis Bridal Boutique, Clayton, 314.721.2457. Diamond earrings and bracelet available at Mavrík Fine Jewelry & Diamonds, Kirkwood, 314.909.6818. Diamond ring available at Décor Interiors & Jewelry, Chesterfield, 314.434.4022. Lady Bird Couture headband available at ladybirdcouture.com, 314.578.8833. Flower hair accessories, stylist’s own. Bouquet by Stems Florist, Florissant, 314.972.7836.
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Joy Ride La Sposa gown available at Simply Elegant Bridal Boutique, Downtown, 314.241.8201. Diamond earrings and necklace available at DĂŠcor Interiors & Jewelry, Chesterfield, 314.434.4022. Lady Bird Couture headband available at ladybirdcouture. com, 314.578.8833. Carriage courtesy of Classic Carriage Co., Shipman, IL, 618.729.4445. Photo assistants: Sara Swaty Roger & Caitlin Ward. Fashion assistant: Abigail Newell. Special thanks to Esther Bally and Diane Bailey at the Maple Leaf Cottage Inn, Elsah, IL, 618.374.1684, mapleleafcottages. com, and Albert, Debbie and Paula Golike of the Classic Carriage Company, Shipman, IL.
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BRIDESMAID GIFT GUIDE Show your gals what they mean to you with these unique bridesmaid gifts.
1 1. IVY HILL 18 karat recycled gold and sterling silver pendant on a chain with your choice of stone. 304 North Euclid Avenue 314.367.7004 IVYHILLBOUTIQUE.com
2. KIND SOAP COMPANY Vintage Balmshells. Hundreds of vintage pieces with fillable areas ready to hold your choice of aromatherapy balm, solid perfume or lip balm. Each piece is unique and refillable! 43 South Old Orchard 314.517.2868 kindsoap.com
ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
3. CODI The perfect accessory to any ensemble, this clear and iridescent crystal encrusted bracelet deserves a place in every woman’s jewelry box! $65 1134 Town and Country Crossing Drive 636.227.2634 CODIJEWELRY.COM
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Wedding Venue Guide ceremony site
capacity standing
capacity seated
outdoor party area
on-site catering
allow choice of caterer
9th Street Abbey 1808 S. 9th St., Soulard, 314.621.9598, pattylongcatering.com
YES
350
250
YES
YES
NO
Bevo Mill 4749 Gravois Rd., South City, 314.832.6776, thebevomill.com
Yes
150-300
75-210
YES
YES
NO
Bixby’s Missouri History Musuem's 2nd Floor, 5700 Lindell Blvd., Forest Park, 314.361.7313, bixbys-mohistory.com
Yes
300
50-100
Yes
Yes
Yes*
Bogey Hills Country Club 1120 Country Club Rd., St. Charles, 636.946.6250, bogeyhillscc.com
YES
450
450
YES
YES
NO
Cedar Lake Cellars 11008 Schreckengast Rd., Wright City, 636.745.9500, cedarlakecellars.com
Yes
450+
350
Yes
Yes
NO
Chandler Hill Vineyards 596 Defiance Rd., Defiance, 636.798.2675, chandlerhillvineyards.com
YES
300
300
YES
YES
NO
Chase Park Plaza 212 N. Kingshighway Blvd., Central West End, 314.633.3050, chaseparkplaza.com
YES
2,000
800
YES
YES
NO
City Museum 701 N. 15th St., Downtown, 314.231.2489, ext. 117, citymuseum.org
YES
300-600
100-300
NO
Yes
Yes*
Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis 3750 Washington Blvd., Grand Center, 314.535.0770, ext. 201, camstl.org
YES
330
200
YES
YES
NO
Coronado Ballroom 3701 Lindell Blvd., Midtown, 314.367.4848, thecoronado.com
YES
650
350
NO
YES
NO
YES
480
230-300
NO
YES
NO
Danforth Plant Science Center 975 N. Warson Rd., Creve Couer, 314.587.1000, danforthcenter.org
YES
350
250
yes
YES
NO
Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis 999 N. 2nd St., Downtown, 314.881.5800, fourseasons.com/St. Louis
YES
600
400
YES
YES
NO
Fox Theatre–Fox Club 527 N. Grand Blvd., Grand Center, 314.531.9999, fabulousfox.com
YES
500-2,200
400-1,200
NO
YES
NO
The Gardens at Malmaison 3519 St. Albans Rd., St. Albans, 636.458.0131, gardensmalmaison.com
YES
240
180
YES
YES
NO
Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark 1 S. Broadway, Downtown, 314.421.1776, hiltonweddingstlouis.com
YES
900
650
NO
YES
NO
Hilton St. Louis Frontenac 1335 S. Lindbergh Blvd., Frontenac, 314.993.1100, stlouisfrontenac.hilton.com
Yes
500-1,000
280-600
No
Yes
NO
HoteLumière 999 N. 2nd St., Downtown, 877.450.7711, lumiereplace.com
YES
500
300
NO
YES
NO
Hyatt Regency at the St. Louis Arch 315 Chestnut St., Downtown, 314.655.1234, stlouisarch.hyatt.com
YES
2,200
1,380
YES
YES
NO
reception sites
Drury Plaza Hotel–At the Arch 2 S. 4th St., Downtown, 314.231.3003, druryhotels.com
* Must be selected from an approved list.
96 ALIVE STL january 2012
alivemag.com
ceremony site
capacity standing
capacity seated
outdoor party area
on-site catering
allow choice of caterer
The Jewel Box Forest Park, 314.531.0080, cateringstlouis.com
YES
250
160
NO
YES
NO
Kemp Auto Museum 16955 Chesterfield Airport Rd., Chesterfield, 636.537.1718, kempautomuseum.org
YES
1,100
800
Yes
YES
NO
The Lodge at Grant’s Trail 4398 Hoffmeister Ave., South County, 314.638.3340, lodgeatgrantstrail.com
YES
100-200
75
YES
YES
NO
Lumen Private Event Space 2201 Locust St., Downtown, 314.241.5757, lumenstl.com
YES
700
300
YES
YES
NO
Mad Art Gallery 2727 S. 12th St., Soulard, 314.771.8230, madart.com
YES
400
250
YES
YES
YES
Millennium Hotel 200 S. 4th St., Downtown, 314.241.9500, millenniumhotels.com/milleniumstlouis
Yes
2,800
1,700
Yes
Yes
NO
Missouri Botanical Garden–Multiple Locations 4344 Shaw Blvd., Tower Grove, 314.577.5100, cateringstlouis.com
YES
250
200
YES
YES
NO
Missouri History Museum 5700 Lindell Blvd., Forest Park, 314.454.3151, butlerspantry.com
YES
400
250
YES
YES
NO
Moonrise Hotel 6177 Delmar Blvd., The Loop, 314.721.1111, moonrisehotel.com
YES
180
60
YES
YES
NO
Moto Museum 3441 Olive St., Midtown, 314.446.1805, themotomuseum.com
YES
1,200
300
NO
YES
NO
Moulin Events 2017 Chouteau Ave., Lafayette Square, 314.241.4949, moulinevents.com
YES
100-450
30-300
YES
YES
NO
NEO on Locust 2801 Locust Ave., Midtown, 314.570.9218, neostl.com
YES
650-800
300-500
NO
NO
YES
Oliva 4915 Daggett Ave., The Hill, 314.961.7588, cateringstlouis.com
YES
120
120
YES
YES
NO
The Palladium Saint Louis 1400 Park Place, Lafayette Square, 314.799.8886, palladium-stl.com
Yes
700
400
Yes
Yes
NO
Peabody Opera House 1400 Market St., Downtown, 314.552.4572, peabodyoperahouse.com
YES
TBD
400
YES
YES
NO
Piper Palm House 4256 Magnolia Ave., Tower Grove, 314.771.4410, palmhousestl.org
Yes
200
160-280
Yes
Yes
NO
Renaissance Grand & Suites Hotel–Crystal Ballroom 800 Washington Ave., Downtown, 314.418.5820, renaissancestlouisgrand.com
YES
400
300
NO
YES
NO
The Ritz-Carlton 100 Carondelet Plaza, Clayton, 314.863.6300, ritzcarlton.com
YES
1,000
800
YES
YES
NO
Scape American Bistro 48 Maryland Plaza, Central West End, 314.361.7227, scapestl.com
YES
300
150
YES
YES
NO
Sheldon Concert Hall & Art Galleries 3648 Washington Blvd., Grand Center, 314.533.9900, thesheldon.org
YES
700
500
YES
YES
YES
The Thaxton Building 1009 Olive St., Downtown, 314.323.3146, thethaxton.com
YES
200
120
NO
YES
YES
The Westin 811 Spruce St., Downtown, 314.552.5727, westin.com/stlouis
YES
600
260
NO
YES
YES
Windows on Washington 1601 Washington Ave., Downtown, 314.241.5555, wowbanquets.com
YES
1,000
800
YES
YES
NO
World’s Fair Pavilion Government Hill, Forest Park, 314.289.5344, cateringstlouis.com
YES
1,000
500
YES
NO
NO
reception sites
alivemag.com
january 2012 ALIVE STL 97
alive bride
Wedding Guide
Photo by Lily Lin.
Over 150 top local vendors, photographers, caterers, cakeries and more.
Forest Park Visitor Center 98 ALIVE STL january 2012
alivemag.com
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Wedding Planners Absolutely In, LLC 130 South Bemiston, Ste. 603, Clayton, 314.315.1775, absolutelyin.com Let Absolutely In help make your big day memorable, whether you need planning from scratch or dayof assistance. Carolyn Burke Wedding Liaison 705 Dickson St., Kirkwood, 314.821.4844, weddingliaison.com Carolyn Burke coordinates weddings of many faiths and non-religious backgrounds, and specializes in lowbudget, elegant weddings. Cosmopolitan Events 8132 Big Bend Blvd., Suite. B, Webster Groves, 314.249.9107, cosmopolitanevents.com Cosmopolitan Events specializes in weddings with panache, complete with a skilled design department and operations team. Divine Events 224 N. Highway 67, #233, Florissant, 314.805.3587, mydivineevents.com Get help with the planning process, finishing touches and anything in between. Hospitality Concierge 3966 Wyoming St., Tower Grove South, thehcweddings.com Use the virtual wedding planner to connect with a planner who will work with you one-on-one to fit your dreams and budget. Lucky You Productions 2101 Locust St., Ste. 4, Downtown, 314.588.0073, luckyoustl.com Rachel McCalla and Amanda Hill make wedded bliss a reality, specializing in coordination and floral design. Pulse Events 314.518.4511, pulseweddings.com Let Pulse Events help you plan your special day, so you can be stressfree and still have the wedding of your dreams. St. Louis Wedding Consultants 16943 Lewis Spring Farms Rd., Chesterfield, 636.236.9359, stlweddingconsultants.net From vibrant flower arrangements to elegant, intimate wedding invitations, St. Louis Wedding Consultants connects you with the vendors to make your day spectacular.
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Rehearsal Dinner Venues
Photo by Brea Photography.
Al’s Restaurant 1200 N. 1st St., Downtown, 314.421.6399, alsrestaurant.net Almonds 8127 Maryland Ave., Clayton, 314.725.1019, almondsrestaurant.com Annie Gunn’s 16806 Chesterfield Airport Rd., Chesterfield, 636.532.7684, smokehousemarket.com alivemag.com
Araka 131 Carondelet Plaza, Clayton, 314.725.6777, araka.com
Robust 227 W. Lockwood, Webster Groves, 314.963.0033, robustwinebar.com
Aya Sofia 6671 Chippewa St., South City, 314.645.9919, ayasofiacuisine.com
Salt of the Earth 8150 Big Bend Blvd., Webster Groves, 314.963.1919, salt-earth.com
Blueberry Hill 6504 Delmar Blvd., The Loop, 314.727.4444, blueberryhill.com Bristol’s 11801 Olive Blvd., Creve Coeur, 314.567.0272, bristolseafoodgrill.com
Soulard’s 1731 S. 7th St., Soulard, 314.241.7956, soulards.com SqWires 1415 S. 18th St., Lafayette Square, 314.865.3522, sqwires.com
Charlie Gitto’s 5226 Shaw Ave., The Hill, 314.772.8898, charliegittos.com
Syberg’s 2430 Old Dorsett Rd., Maryland Heights, 314.785.0481, sybergs.com.
The Drunken Fish 1 Maryland Plaza, Central West End, 314.367.4222, drunkenfish.com
Table Three 16765 Main St., Wildwood Town Center, 636.458.4333, table-three.com
Eau Bistro at Chase Park Plaza 212 N. Kingshighway, Central West End, 314.454.9000, chaseparkplaza.com Eclipse in the Moonrise Hotel 6177 Delmar Blvd., The Loop, 314.726.2222, moonrisehotel.com F15teen 1900 Locust Ave., Downtown, 314.588.8899, 15stl.com Franco 1535 S. 8th St., Soulard, 314.436.2500, eatatfranco.com Frazer’s 1811 Pestalozzi St., Benton Park, 314.773.8646, frazergoodeats.com Herbie’s Vintage 72 405 N. Euclid Ave., Central West End, 314.769.9595, herbies.com J. Buck’s 101 S. Hanley Rd., Clayton, 314.725.4700, jbucks.com Kemoll’s 1 Metropolitan Square,. Downtown, 314.421.0555, kemolls.com Lorenzo’s Trattoria 1933 Edwards St., The Hill, 314.773.2223, lorenzostrattoria.com Lucas Park Grille 1234 Washington Ave., Downtown, 314.241.7770, lucasparkgrille.com Luciano’s Trattoria 172 Carondelet Plaza, Clayton, 314.863.9969, lucianostrattoria.com Mike Shannon’s Steaks & Seafood 620 Market St., Downtown, 314.421.1540, shannonsteak.com Molly’s 816 Geyer Ave., Soulard, 314.241.6200, mollysinsoulard.com Monarch 7401 Manchester Rd., Maplewood, 314.644.3995, monarchrestaurant.com Mosaic 1001 Washington Ave., Downtown, 314.621.6001, mosaictapas.com Prime 1000 1000 Washington Ave., Downtown, 314.241.1000, prime1000.com
The Tenderloin Room 232 N. Kingshighway Blvd., Central West End, 314.361.0900, tenderloinroom.com Tony’s 410 Market St., Downtown, 314.231.7007, saucemagazine.com/tonys
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Caterers Butler’s Pantry 1414 Park Ave., Lafayette Square, 314.664.7680, butlerspantry.com From the moment you begin working with Butler’s, you’ll see their commitment and expertise in planning and executing a flawless wedding and reception. Catering St. Louis 2141 59th St., South City, 314.961.7588, cateringstlouis.com Take your special day to a whole new level with full-service catering and event planning focusing on mood, atmosphere and, most of all, superb food. The Dutchie Catering Company 314.354.0809, thedutchie.com Caribbean-inspired food, including traditional dishes such as jerk chicken, curry goat, fried plantain and coconut rice pudding. Farotto’s 9525 Manchester Rd., Rock Hill, 314.962.0048, farottos.com With a delicious catering menu full of classic Italian dishes, Farotto’s allows newlyweds to build the perfect menu according to their own tastes and styles. Gregory’s Creative Cuisine 4700 Adkins Ave., South City, 314.481.4481, gregoryscreativecuisine.com Choose from a diverse selection of delicious and sophisticated dishes. Gregory’s also coordinates flowers, valet parking and even ice sculptures. Hollyberry Catering 284 East Ave., Webster Groves, 314.968.9239, hollyberrycatering.com St. Louis’ premier small-plate caterer, Hollyberry creates memorable details such as wine-tasting stations, dessert bars and signature cocktails.
LoRusso’s Catering Company 3121 Watson Rd., Tower Grove, 314.647.6222, lorussos.com For a spectacular rehearsal dinner or reception with delicious entrées, LoRusso’s is just right. Orlando’s Banquets & Catering 8352 Watson Rd., Webster Groves, 314.638.6660, orlandogardens.com For over 40 years, the Orlando family has provided brides-to-be with delicious food, excellent service and sophisticated facilities. The Pasta House Company 2200 59th St., Downtown, 314.644.1400, pastahouse.com Design a custom menu for your wedding, with options like a buffet, seated dinner, family-style dinner or passed hors d’oeuvres, with quality in planning, detail and presentation. Patty Long Catering 1804 S. 9t St., Soulard, 314.621.9598, pattylongcatering.com With decades of service under their belts, these experienced chefs offer exquisite cuisine, impeccable service and breathtaking venues. Russo’s Catering Company 9904 Page Ave., Overland, 314.427.6771, russosgourmet.com No matter the size of your event, Russo’s can create a menu specifically designed to fit your needs. The Social Affair 314.583.9435, thesocialaffairstl.com Kelly Spencer creates and presents beautiful desserts and decadent entrées in a unique way. Steven Becker Fine Dining 3701 Lindell Blvd., Midtown, 314.367.4848, stevenbeckerfd.com Featured exclusively at the Coronado Ballroom, Steven Becker brings upscale wedding celebrations to a historic venue. Vito’s 3515 Lindell Blvd., Midtown, 314.534.8486, vitosstl.com This established Italian restaurant will cater your big day, and make it truly memorable with an array of delicious authentic eats. Westwood Catering 190 N. Sappington Rd., Glendale, 314.965.7428, westwoodcateringstl.com Westwood will stop at nothing to make your reception a standout by offering over 600 items, including rentals, tents, linens, ice carvings and entertainment. Wolfgang Puck One Fine Arts Drive, Forest Park, 314.655.5369, wolfgangpuck.com With unparalleled cuisine and impeccable service, Wolfgang Puck will create a wedding celebration that flawlessly captures your imagination and personal style. V. Catering & Events 15 N. Meramec Ave., Clayton 314.443.6956, vcateringandevents.com Let the combined expertise of Michele and Vito Racanelli create your perfect day based on their motto, “Taste is a matter of choice; quality is a matter of fact.” january 2012 ALIVE STL 99
| guide
Zia’s 5256 Wilson Ave., The Hill, 314.776.0020, zias.com Known for delicious Italian dishes at affordable prices, Zia’s caters to couples with a taste for tradition.
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Boutiques / Accessories Amore 173 Long Road Ste. 104, Chesterfield, 636.536.0007, amoretodaysbridal.com Amore delivers wedding and bridesmaid dresses in all sizes, featuring such top designers as Pronovias and Allure. Bella Bridesmaid 13428 Clayton Rd., Town & Country, 314.205.1191, bellabridesmaid.com For the modern bridesmaid, Bella offers a wide range of top designer dresses suited to fit every body type. Berrybridge bridal 9904 Clayton Rd., Ste. A, Ladue, 314.997.1439, berrybridgebridal.com This mother-daughter shop offers a comfortable and attentive atmosphere, with dresses by designers Matthew Christopher and Romona Kevesa. Blushing Bride 4632 N. Illinois St., Fairview Heights 618.257.7600, blushingbrideshop.com A full-service boutique with an extensive collection of high-quality gowns that will ensure your bridal party looks exquisite on your special day. Brides by Demetrios 19 The Boulevard, Richmond Heights, 314.963.9800, demetriosbride.com Sophisticated and stylish, Demitrios brings the latest trends, brands and experienced service within your reach. Fleur De Lis Bridal Boutique 8109 Maryland Ave., Clayton, 314.721.2457, fleurdelisbridal.com Featuring collections of leading couture designer gowns, the shop also carries veils, headpieces and jewelry to complete each bride’s look. Jule Lingerie & Loungewear 9757 Clayton Rd., Ladue, 314.983.9282, juleonline.com Find everything from cute embroidered thongs to comfy sweats and sexy lingerie that will come in handy before and after the ceremony. Kirkwood Bridal Boutique 112 W. Jefferson, Ste. 124, Kirkwood, 314.821.8555, kirkwoodbridalboutique.com From formal to informal gowns, this boutique offers a wide array of dresses for both bridesmaids and mothers-of-the-bride. Savvi Formalwear Multiple locations, savviwedding.com Look your best for any formal occasion with a trip to Savvi, St. Louis’ premier provider of men’s formal wear. Simply Elegant Bridal 1004 Olive St., Downtown, 314.241.8201, simplyelegantbridalstl.com Gorgeous gowns and formal attire for everyone in the wedding party. 100 ALIVE STL january 2012
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Cakes / Desserts Bissinger’s Handcrafted Chocolatier 32 Maryland Plaza, Central West End, 314.367.7750, bissingers.com With a confectionery style dating back to the 17th century, it's the perfect source for no-fail guest favors. The Cakery 1420 Tamm Ave., Dogtown, 314.647.6000, thecakerybakery.net Ericka Robertson Frank and Julie Van Elswyk offer all things sweet and chic, from a trendy tower of cupcakes to the traditional threetiered mega-cake. Encore Baking Company 2730 Sutton Blvd., Maplewood, 314.832.4303, encorebaking.com Think you have an impossible wedding cake request? Encore Baking can do it all, including custom-blended icings to match any color swatch you bring. Jilly’s Cupcake Bar & Café 8509 Delmar Blvd., University City, 314.993.5455, jillyscupcakebar.com Jilly’s can create a perfectly delicious and completely custom idea for your wedding desserts—from color matching and themes to special flavor combinations. Just Sweets 314.750.7501, justsweetsdesserts.com For delicious desserts that are both aesthetically and ethically pleasing, Just Sweets offers sweet and semisweet confections made with Fair Trade Certified ingredients. McArthur’s Bakery Multiple locations, mcarthurs.com Since 1956, McArthur’s Bakery has crafted delicious, mouthwatering wedding cakes, made with the finest ingredients.
Ellisville, 636.227.2006, clarksonjewelers.com Curt Parker Jewelers 10192 Conway Rd., Ladue, 314.989.9909, curtparker.com Décor Interiors and Jewelry 13476 Olive Blvd., Chesterfield, 314.434.4022, decor-jewelry.com Diamond & Jewelry Brokers, Inc. 473 Lafayette Center, Manchester, 636.391.6622, diamondaa.com The Diamond Shop 12 N. Central Ave., Clayton, 314.721.2210, thediamondshop.net Elleard Heffern Fine Jewelers 101 S. Hanley Rd., Suite 110, Clayton, 314.863.8820, heffern.com Genovese Jewelers 12460 Olive Blvd., Creve Coeur, 314.878.6203, genovesejewelers.com Huffords Jewelry 10413 Clayton Rd., Frontenac, 314.993.1444, huffordsjewelry.com Lordo’s Diamonds 9222 Clayton Rd., Ladue, 314.432.8008, lordosdiamonds.com Mavrik Fine Jewelry 200 S. Kirkwood Rd., Kirkwood, 314.909.6818, mavrikjewelry.com
Tiffany & Co. 64 Plaza Frontenac, Frontenac, 314.692.2255, tiffany.com Ylang Ylang 81 Plaza Frontenac, Frontenac, 314.567.5555, ylangylang.com Your Diamond Source 333 S. Kirkwood Rd, Ste. 204, Kirkwood, 314.835.9899, yourdiamondsource.net
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Photographers Bethre Means 314.740.3134, bethremeans.com Don Siegel Photography 314.432.6981, donsiegelphotovideo.com GoodEye Photoshare 1600 S. Big Bend Blvd., Richmond Heights, 314.644.7770, goodeye-photoshare.com Greg Lappin 314.393.1746, greglappinphotography.com Heather Roth Fine Art Photography 646.284.1215, hsrphoto.com
Simons Jewelers 8141 Maryland Ave., Clayton, 314.725.8888, simonsjewelers.com
Joanna Kleine Photography 1085 Dauphin Ln., Florissant, 314.368.5073, joannakleinephotography.com
Summit Jewelers 7821 Big Bend Blvd., Webster Groves, 314.962.1400, summitjlrs.com
Joel Marion Photography 1478 Cherry Creek Ln., Manchester, 636.861.2400, joelmarionphoto.com
Sugaree Baking
Sugaree Baking 1242 Tamm Ave., Dogtown, 314.645.5496, sugareebaking.com Pat Rutherford-Pettine can create your dream wedding cake in traditional circle shapes, modern squares or even funky hexagons. SweetArt 2203 S. 39th St., Tower Grove, 314.771.4278, sweetartstl.com Sweet Art will make your big day’s dessert unique and memorable with made-from-scratch cakes using allnatural and organic ingredients.
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Jewelers
Photo courtesy of Jeffrey and Julia Woods.
alive bride
Albarré Jewelry 9711 Clayton Rd., Ladue, 314.997.1707, albarre.com Chesterfield Jewelers 17037 Baxter Rd., Chesterfield, 636.537.5590, chesterfieldjewelers.com Clarkson Jewelers 1306 Clarkson Rd., alivemag.com
Professional Bridal Consultant™ with the Association of Bridal Consultants
Lorenzo’s Trattoria Celebrate your rehearsal dinner and reception at Lorenzo’s Trattoria. Call now to make your reservation.
1933 Edwards St. St. Louis, MO 63110 314-773-2223 LorenzosTrattoria.com
314.323.3146
Appointment Appreciated 173 Long Road Chesterfield, Missouri 636-536-0007 www.amoretodaysbridal.com Big Sale - January 2012
Jon Koch Photography 314.497.8308, kochphotography.net J. Pollack Photography 314.374.3249, jpollackphoto.com Megan Thiele studios 573.579.5513, meganthiele.com
11/10/11 3:11:19 PM
Merry Images 314.884.1510, merryimages.com Mirage Images 636.577.1074, mirage-photo.com Nordmann Photography 9420 Litzsinger Rd., Webster Groves, 314.962.5900, nordmannphoto.com St. Louis Photobooth 314.667.4637, stlouisphotobooth.com Tim McDermott Photography 2323 Locust St., #508, Benton Park, 314.406.1149, timmcdermottphoto.com
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Warwick Photography 1750 S. Brentwood Blvd., Ste. 265, Brentwood, 314.962.3222, warwickphotography.com
Today’s Bridal-N-Fashion
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Videographers / Music 11/10/11
Downtime Productions 7534 Watson Rd., 3:11:19 PM Shrewsbury, 314.452.2848, downtime-productions.com First Dance Saint Louis firstdancesaintlouis.com The Manhasset Strings 636.537.0405, manhassetstrings.com Millennium Music 1334 Strassner Dr., Brentwood, 314.918.9335, millenniummusic.net One Eyed Dog Productions 314.303.6976, oneeyeddog.com Pulse Events 314.518.4511, pulseweddings.com Spectrum Band 14140 Conway Rd., Chesterfield, 314.434.7153, spectrumband.net
RECENTLY RINGED?
Steamline Productions 19 Heathwood Lane, Fenton, 314.650.3277, steamlineproductions.com
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Bridal Registry Byron Cade 7901 Clayton Rd., Richmond Heights, 314.721.4701, byroncadegifts.com Crate and Barrel 1 The Boulevard, Richmond Heights, 314.725.6380, crateandbarrel.com The Kerry Cottage 2119 S. Big Bend Blvd., Maplewood, 314.647.0166, kerrycottage.com
SHARE YOUR ENGAGEMENT OR WEDDING STORY TO BE FEATURED IN ALIVE! JENNIFER@ALIVEMAG.COM
Macy’s 800.568.8865, macysweddingchannel.com
Neiman Marcus 100 Plaza Frontenac, Frontenac, 314.567.9811, neimanmarcus.com Pottery Barn 262 Plaza Frontenac, Frontenac, 314.996.2630, potterybarn.com Williams-Sonoma 260 Plaza Frontenac, Frontenac, 314.567.9211, williams-sonoma.com
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Hair / Makeup Adorn Salon 17660 Chesterfield Airport Rd., Chesterfield, 636.530.9000, adornhairsalon.com Alison Silvagnoli Hampton 314.308.1762, alisonjomakeupartistry.com A True Spa 116 Chesterfield Commons East Rd., Chesterfield, 636.537.3227, atruespa.com Belleza Salon 3449 Pheasant Meadows Run, O’Fallon, 636.300.3437, mybellezasalon.com Blue Element Salon 7529 Forsyth Blvd., Clayton, 314.725.1200, blueelementsalon.com DanielleStyle Inc. 2826 Sublette Ave., 314.302.1467, daniellestyle.com Dominic Michael Salon 17057 Baxter Rd., Chesterfield, 636.449.1583, dmsalon.com GLAM 2724 Chippewa St., South City, 314.771.1175, iamglam.net Jean Phillipe & Company 745 Old Frontenac Sq., Ste. 203, 314.991.2900, jeanphillipe.com Kolors Salon 4188 Manchester Ave., The Grove, 314.531.1218, kolorssalon.com The Lifestyle Center 7642 Forsyth Blvd., Clayton, 314.863.5556, thelifestylecenter.com Megan Dugan 312.285.5907, makeupishaute.com Metamorphosis Bridal Makeup & Hair Design 636.443.5931, makeoverstl.com Metro Design Studio 612 N. McKnight Rd., University City, 314.983.0444, mystudiosalon.com Pixies Hair Design 2709 Sutton Blvd., Maplewood, 314.605.8417, pixieshairdesign.com Robert Govero for Hair 8111 Maryland Ave., Clayton, 314.725.6179, robertgoveroforhair.com
alivemag.com
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314 862 1000 ~ InfinityLaserAndSkin.com 141 North Meramec Suite 317 Clayton 63105
Complimentary suite with 10 rooms 20 St. Louis locations to serve you
Ask for the “ALIVE” Rate druryhotels.com | 1-888-324-1691
We have the perfect invitation for your wedding celebration! 10am to 5pm Tuesday-S aturday 120 West M onroe K ir k wood
The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel 999 N. 2nd St., Downtown, 314.881.5800, fourseasons.com/stlouis
M. Haley Design 629 N. New Ballas Rd., Ste. 203, Creve Coeur, 636.352.2102, mhaleydesign.com
Studio 703 703 Long Road Crossing Dr., Chesterfield, 636.536.6770, thestudio703.com
The Service Bureau 9773 Clayton Rd., Ladue, 314.991.1104, stlservicebureau.com
Studio Salons 633 N. New Ballas Rd., Creve Coeur, 314.578.6116, studiosalonscc.com
Slice of Lime Design 9009 Meadowbrook Ln., Overland, 314.210.0245, sliceoflimedesign.com
Valerie Brown 2020 Washington Blvd. 314.479.6306 thevaleriebrown.com
Two Blue Doors 7 Gray Ave., Webster Groves, 314.968.4033, twobluedoors.com
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Florists
314.909.1640 velluminc.com
Becky Huffman Flowers 314.368.7760, beckyhuffmanflowers.com Blooms, Jenny Seitz 314.795.1067, jennyseitz@hotmail.com Botanicals Design Studio 3014 S. Grand Ave, South City, 314.772.7674, botanicalsdesignstudio.com
A salon like no other...South City’s hidden luxury 2724 Chippewa • 314.771.1175 Iamglam.net
Thermal Silkening Treatments • Brazilian Blowout • The Color Bar • Hair and Scalp Treatments • Designer Hair Cuts • Hair Extensions • Eyelash Extensions • Bridal Up-Dos
Brides, don’t forget about your undergarments for your big day. Choose from gorgeous bra and panty sets to the smooth fit of the Le Mystere Bridal Seduction bustier. We also carry fun gifts such as the Hanky Panky bridal thongs, Mary Green boyshorts and the new Jenny Packham designer chemises. LINGERIE & LOUNGEWEAR
Lingerie ~ Loungewear ~ Sleepwear ~ Underwear ~ Bridalwear ~ And we now carry Maternity Lingerie and Sleepwear
9757 Clayton Road in Ladue MarketPlace 314.983.9282 www.JuleOnline.com - M-Th 10-5:30, F-Sa 10-5
Vellum 120 W. Monroe Ave., Kirkwood, 314.909.1640, velluminc.com
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Linens / Rentals Alobar’s Party Rentals 716 Hanley Industrial Ct., Brentwood, 314.781.7600, alobars.com Aries Party Rental 4940 Northrup Ave., Tower Grove, 314.664.6610, ariesco.com
Festive Atmospheres 8314 Olive Blvd., Olivette 314.481.1501, festiveatmospheres.com
Exclusive Events, Inc. 13633 Lakefront Dr., Maryland Heights, 314.995.7282, exclusiveeventsinc.com
Fleurish, The Rebel Florist 314.962.3232, therebelflorist.com
Ice Visions 324 Sante Ave., Kirkwood, 314.821.1204, icevisions.com
Fresh Art 7639 Wydown Blvd., Clayton, 314.721.5080, freshartllc.com Ladue Florist 9776 Clayton Rd., Ladue, 314.994.7304, ladueflorist.com Petals Galore 9292 Dielman Industrial Dr., Olivette, 314.651.1360, petalsgalore.com Sisters Flowers & Gifts 431 E. Clinton Pl., Kirkwood, 314.821.0076, sistersflowers.net Soulard Florist 730 Carroll St., Soulard, 314.231.0602 or 314.622.4180, soulardflorist.com
Universal Rentals 10831 Manchester Rd., Kirkwood, 314.822.4535 or 314.363.7626, ineedatent.com Weinhardt Party Rentals 11601 Manchester Rd., Des Peres, 314.822.9000, weinhardtpartyrentals.com
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Transportation All About You Limos 314.631.0747, aaylimos.com
Stems 301 Saint Francois St., Florissant, 314.972.7836, stems4weddings.com
BEST Transportation 8531 Page Ave., Ste. 160, 314.989.1500, besttransportation.com
Wildflowers 1013 Ohio Ave., Lafayette Sq., 314.772.9900, wildflowersstl.com
Midwest Valet 314.361.6764, midwestvalet.com
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Invitations By Alice Boutique 263 Chesterfield Mall, Chesterfield, 314.227.5451, byalice.net
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Travel Companies AAA Travel 888.366.4222, ouraaa.com/travel
BBJ Linen 856 Hanley Industrial Ct., Brentwood, 314.447.9200, bbjlinen.com
Travel Haus 11231 Concord Village Ave., 314.842.7313, travelhausstlouis.com
Cheree Berry 3 S. Newstead Ave., #2, Central West End, 314.533.6688, chereeberry.com
Travelplex American Express 238 Mid Rivers Ctr., St. Peters, 636.397.2100, travelplex.com alivemag.com
photography by Megan Thiele Studios
Wedding event
planning
Design social
Sorirees Cosmopolitan Events p 314.249.9107
www.cosmopolitanevents.com
Wedding Design event
social
planning
Sorirees
Kirkwood Bridal Boutique All your special occasion needs: • • • • • •
Bridal Gowns Bridesmaid Dresses Mother of Attire Prom Dresses Tuxedo Rental Custom Alterations
112 W. Jefferson • 314.821.8555 • kirkwoodbridalboutique.com
Bride
ANNUAL BRIDAL EVENT & FAshIoN s how THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2012, 6–9PM LUMEN PRIVATE EVENT SPACE AT 22ND & LoCUST
Limited tickets avaiLabLe. To PURChAsE TICKETs, VIsIT ALIVEMAG.COM.
Top Dentists ALIVE profiles top-notch local dental professionals.
Eugenia Kardaris, DDS New Age Dental Care 125 Chesterfield Business Parkway Chesterfield, MO 63005 • 636.449.0215
Services
Cosmetic Dentistry • Gum Recontouring • Veneers • Whitening Sedation Dentistry Implants • Preventative Dentistry Cleanings Dental Examinations • Polishing • Scaling • X-Rays • TMJ Treatment • Braces • Invisalign • Maxillofacial Surgery • Laser Dentistry Dr. Eugenia Kardaris and her team at New Age Dental Care provide everything from general dentistry to complete smile makeovers, all under one roof. And, with options like Sedation Dentistry, you can be relaxed and comfortable for all of your dental procedures. Dr. Kardaris is licensed as a general dentist in the state of Missouri. She is committed to providing her patients with the best care possible and places an emphasis on continuing education for herself and her entire staff. She annually attends many leading dental seminars and has served as both researcher and instructor at several medical institutions, including Northwestern University, Washington University and Barnes-Jewish Hospital. Dr. Kardaris received the Athena Award from the University of Missouri–St. Louis and Helenic Spirit Foundation for her contributions to education, philanthropy, the arts and heartwarming community service.
106 ALIVE STL january 2012
ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
alivemag.com
Michael F. Grasso, D.D.S MFGrasso D.D.S and Associates 120 West Drive, Suite 120 • Chesterfield, MO 63017 636.777.7700 • mfgrassodds.com
Services Veneers • Cosmetic Restorations • Implants** • Invisalign®* • TMJ** • Whitening • Root Canals* • Prevention and Hygiene • Laser Treatments • CEREC Same Day Crowns • Air Abrasion • Dentures and Partials • Intra-Oral Camera • Digital X-Rays • Snap-On Smile® • 3D X-Rays • JVA-Joint Vibration Analysis • PRGF and PRP Treatments Going to the dentist doesn’t have to be a scary ordeal. At the office of Dr. Michael F. Grasso, patients feel at ease in the capable hands of a friendly and professional staff. By using all the latest equipment and techniques, Dr. Grasso ensures that not only are you receiving alivemag.com
the newest treatments in the dentistry industry, but also that your experience is a comfortable and welcoming one. Dr. Grasso treats each and every one of his patients like a member of the family and counsels them on the best ways to maintain and improve their dental health. Dr. Grasso and his staff believe that informed patients are better prepared to make decisions regarding their health and wellbeing, which is why his team is always dedicated to giving you the individualized attention you deserve. Dr. Grasso has been practicing dentistry for nearly 30 years and is committed to pursuing ongoing education to stay on top of the latest trends in the industry. From 3D X-Rays to Joint Vibration Analysis, you can feel confident that you are receiving the best and most innovative care. *Dr. Grasso is not licensed in MO as a specialist in the advertised dental specialty. **Specialty area not recognized by the ADA and requires no specific educational training to advertise this service.
ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
january 2012 ALIVE STL 107
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. $$ BRASSERIE BY NICHE Niche owner Gerard Craft brings his take on casual French dining to the CWE with an evolving menu of French bistro fare, an impressive beer list and classic desserts. Dinner served Mon.-Sun.; Sat. and Sun. brunch. 4580 Laclede Ave., 314.454.0600. $$
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
108 ALIVE STL january 2012
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. Half off signature martinis on Martini Mondays. 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. Breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily. 400 N. Euclid Ave., 314.367.4300. $$ Salt Chef Wes Johnson’s adventurous menu is served in the unique ambiance of
Hot List 2011 Winner Late-night dining Outdoor seating Opened in the last 12 months
a former Central West End mansion. Dinner served Wed.-Mon.; Sat. and Sun. brunch. 4356 Lindell Blvd., 314.932.5787. $$ 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. $$ SubZero More than 300 international labels of vodka, a wonderfully large list of drinks, sushi and a build-your-own burger menu are available in the expanded area. Dinner served daily. 308 N. Euclid Ave., 314.367.1200. $$ Tavern of Fine Arts Offering fine wines, seasonal appetizers and small plates, patrons can view art from local artists while relaxing with friends. Lunch and dinner served Mon.-Sat. 313 Belt Ave., 314.367.7549. $
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. $$$ BRIDGE TAP HOUSE and WINE BAR A large craft beer and wine selection, as well as a full menu with tons of house-made touches. Lunch and dinner served daily. 1004 Locust St., 314.241.8141. $$
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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. $$ Café Ventana This coffeehouse has an extensive food selection, including sandwiches, beignets, pastries and coffee. Open daily. 3919 W. Pine Blvd., 314.531.7500. $ CIELO Enjoy Italian cuisine with Cielo’s fresh, evolving menu. A dynamic beverage list and Downtown’s most stunning views top off the experience. Breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily. 999 N. 2nd St., 314.881.2105 $$$ 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. $ 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. $$$ LOLA This Downtown hotspot offers a large selection of unique cocktails, as well as French and American cuisine. Open daily; Sat. and Sun. brunch. 500 N. 14th St., 314.621.7277. $$ 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. $$$ Mango A little taste of South America in St. Louis, Mango’s Peruvian Fusion dishes are a twist on foods you thought you knew. Lunch and dinner served Mon.-Sat., dinner served Sun. 1101 Lucas Ave., 314.621.9993. $$ 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 steaks in a chic setting. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner Mon.-Sat. 1000 Washington Ave., 314.241.1000. $$$ rosalita’s cantina Enjoy Mexican favorites like fajitas, tacos and margaritas at this happening Tex-Mex restaurant. Lunch and dinner served daily. 1235 Washington alivemag.com
Ave., 314.621.2700. $ Shula’s 347 Grill Located in Roberts Tower, Shula’s 347 Grill has an energetic atmosphere with quality burgers and steaks to match. Lunch and dinner served daily. 411 N. 8th St., 314.241.7267. $$$ 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. $$$ VIto’s Known for its exceptional Italian cuisine and pizza, this spot serves classic Sicilian-style pizza, fresh pastas, calzones and more. Lunch served Mon.-Fri.; dinner served Mon.-Sun. 3515 Lindell Blvd., 314.534.8486. $$
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. $$$ BARcelona A see-and-be-seen hotspot to nosh on Spanish tapas. Lunch and dinner served daily. 34 N. Central Ave., 314.863.9909. $$ 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. $$ COASTAL BISTRO & BAR Recently evolved from Mosaic Bistro, Coastal offers a brand new menu of fresh oysters and low country cuisine. Stop by during happy hour for fantastic oyster shooters. Lunch and dinner served Mon.-Sat. 14 N. Central Ave., 314.932.7377. $$$ 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. $$ J.Buck’s A Clayton staple for business lunches and happy hours, with flavorful classic offerings like pizza, pasta, burgers and baby back ribs. Lunch and dinner served Mon.-Sat. 101 S. Hanley Rd., 314.725.4700. $$$
Cozy up this winter with a hearty bowl of hot soup
THE FOUNTAIN ON LOCUST
3037 LOCUST ST. • 314.535.7800 • FOUNTAINONLOCUST.COM
If you’re searching for the perfect soup to warm up this season, look no further than The Fountain on Locust. Using fresh ingredients from local and international vendors, The Fountain makes soup from scratch every morning. Try their signature Polish Dill Pickle Soup, an elegant potato soup featured on the menu daily. Vegetarian? You’ll love the Moscow Mushroom Soup, with fresh mushrooms and onions in a delicious vegetable broth. Whatever you decide, The Fountain always makes flavor a priority, using thoughtful spice choices and unexpected ingredient combinations to create an unforgettable meal. ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION january 2012 ALIVE STL 109
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. $$ Mad Tomato Chef Vito Racanelli Jr.’s newest eatery features a seasonal, farm-to-table menu, a selection of Italian wines, desserts and pastries. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner Tues.-Sat. 8000 Carondelet Ave., 314.932.5733. $$ 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. $$ Océano St. Louis’ premier seafood bistro is an elegant addition to the Clayton dining scene. Lunch and dinner served daily. 44 N. Brentwood Blvd., 314.721.9400. $$$ Roxane This cozy tapas-style spot is home to a bohemian atmosphere and an eclectic menu. Lunch Mon.-Fri.; dinner served Tues.-Sat. 12 N. Meramec Ave., 314.721.7700. $$ VINO NADOZ WINE BAR Nadoz Café owner Steven Becker brings an intimate destination with an international wine experience and savory American-fusion cuisine. Dinner served Tues.-Sat. 16 The Blvd., 314.726.0400. $$
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. $$ Aya Sofia Add a dash of culture to your diet with exotic Turkish and Mediterranean delights. Lunch served Tues.-Fri., dinner served Tues.-Sun.; Sun. brunch. 6671 Chippewa St., 314.645.9919. $$ 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. $ 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. $$ LORENZO’S TRATTORIA For a different taste on The Hill, try Lorenzo’s northern Italian cuisine with contemporary flavors. 110 ALIVE STL january 2012
Lunch served Tues.-Fri.; dinner served Tues.-Sun. 1933 Edwards St., 314.773.2223. $$ 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. $$ The ROYALE This tavern-style restaurant pays homage to its St. Louis home with drinks named for different aspects of the city. Lunch and dinner served daily. 3132 S. Kingshighway Blvd., 314.772.3600. $$
Lafayette Square/ Benton Park/Soulard 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. $ 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. $
University City/ The Loop 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. Lunch and dinner served Tues.-Sun. 6602 Delmar Blvd., 314.863.6365. $ ECLIPSE This restaurant in the Moonrise Hotel features cosmic décor and a creative American menu. The Rooftop Terrace Bar offers a dramatic view of The Loop and out-of-this-world cocktails. Breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily. 6177 Delmar Blvd., 314.726.2222. $$$
Franco This cool bistro serves country French fare with a modern twist. Lunch served Mon.-Fri.; dinner served Mon.-Sat. 1535 S. 8th St., 314.436.2500. $$$
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. $
the Mud house Fresh-roasted coffee, sandwiches, soups and pastries all served in the heart of the CherokeeLemp Historic District. Breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily. 2101 Cherokee St., 314.776.6599. $
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. $$
NICHE This award-winning neighborhood bistro offers a fabulous menu of American cuisine. Dinner served daily. 1831 Sidney St., 314.773.7755. $$$ 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., 314.241.7799. $$ Soulard’s Restaurant Delicious contemporary American and Southern cuisine and grilled-to-perfection steaks await you at this historic Soulard restaurant and bar. Lunch and dinner served Mon.-Sat. 1731 S. 7th St., 314.241.7956. $$$ 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. $$$
Three Kings Enjoy a full menu of traditional Mediterranean cuisine coupled with classic burgers and Reubens in an approachable, yet elegant setting. Lunch and dinner served daily. 6307 Delmar Blvd., 314.721.3355.
Kirkwood/Maplewood/ Webster Groves boogaloo A vibrant Caribbeaninspired restaurant featuring tapas, a wide selection of smoked meats and a full bar with refreshing mojitos. Lunch and dinner served Mon.-Sat. 7344 Manchester Rd., 314.645.4803. $$ 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. $$ Twin Oak: Wood Fired Fare Taste the specialty wood-fired pizzas at this new eatery, with a one-of-a-kind oven that brings out the natural flavors of toppings like seasonal veggies and roasted chorizo. Lunch and dinner served Tues.-Sun. 1201 Strassner Dr. 314.644.2772. $$ 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 daily. 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. $$
Creve Coeur/Maryland Heights/West County/ Chesterfield annie gunn’s Known for heartwarming dishes and fresh seasonal specials, Annie Gunn’s offers unforgettable steaks, seafood, soups and salads. Lunch and dinner served Tues.-Sun. 16806 Chesterfield Airport Rd., 636.532.7684. $$$ bistro 1130 Savor traditional dishes like French onion soup and rack of lamb, or indulge in desserts such as crème brûlée at this contemporary French restaurant. Dinner Tues.-Sat. 1130 Town and Country Crossing Dr., 636.394.1130. $$$ Dave & Tony’s Premium Burger Joint Using fresh ingredients and a build-your-own-burger approach, Dave & Tony’s is the ultimate destination for burger lovers. Lunch and dinner served daily. 12766 Olive Blvd., 314.439.5100. $ VegaDeli Offers a menu of vegetarian and vegan entrées, including wraps, burgers, salads and soups, with fresh juice and smoothies and a great selection of baked goods. Breakfast, lunch and dinner served Tues.-Sat; lunch served Sun. 177 Hilltown Village Center, 636.536.6938. $ Log on to alivemag.com for our searchable, comprehensive directory of St. Louis restaurants, bars, nightclubs, bakeries, coffeehouses and more. alivemag.com
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january 2012 ALIVE STL 111
scene
Scene in St. Louis: St. Louis’ Most Wanted Party November 23
THE PLACE: Molly’s in Soulard
THE PARTY: More than 500 of St. Louis’ hottest men and women came together for ALIVE’s Most Wanted party at Molly’s in Soulard on Thanksgiving Eve. Ashley Yarchin, Nick Palank, Cassandra Giaimo and Ola Hawatmeh were named as the most successful, stylish and sophisticated St. Louis singles out of the top 20 finalists. GoodEye Photoshare provided guests with memorable pictures of the night, and Molly’s served appetizers to attendees as they mingled and sipped beverages from Blue Moon, Coors Light and 901 Tequila. The Laurel Apartments raffled off a $100 Visa gift card. Other sponsors for the evening included LivingSocial, GenNext and The Arch 106.5. Photos by Annie Hobbs and Kylie Schweiss, ALIVE Scene Team. For more photos, log on to alivemag.com/photos.
Most Wanted Finalists Ashley Yarchin, Nick Palank, Cassandra Giaimo & Ola Hawatmeh Chris Mayer, Kelly Pozzoli & Joe Paske
Philip Hines, Danielle Ojoe & Kevin Walker
Carrie Roberson, Jessica Ferguson, Miranda Murphy & Ryan Brockschmitt
Kelly Graham, Natalie Jones & Cathy Headrick
112112 ALIVE ALIVE STLSTL august JANUARY 20112012
The Laurel’s Raffle
alivemag.com
sT. LouIs’
The votes have been cast and the finalists have been chosen! Meet the Top 4 of ALIVE’s Most Wanted competition, powered by ALIVE Dates. Check it out at alivemag.com/dates.
Ashley Yarchin Anchor/Multimedia Journalist, KSDK-TV
Hometown: Ft. Lauderdale, FL What is your best feature? While I would say my quick wit, I’m often told people like to watch as I walk away. What traits do you most admire in others? If I weren’t in television news and I had the talent, I’d be on Broadway. So, if you can sing, dance and act—wow! Where are your favorite places
in St. Louis for a night out on the town? For a low-key evening out, I stay close to home with Demun Oyster Bar or the Fox & Hounds Tavern at The Cheshire. But most often, you can find me in the Central West End, where I’m all about a night on the dance floor at Mandarin! What’s your next big adventure? In my business? You’ll have to ask my boss.
Describe your best date idea, ALIVE Dates style. How about we… lace up our hiking boots, hop in the car and head to Pere Marquette State Park. Pick a trail that’ll take us through the woods past some of the best views in Illinois. A good sweat, a few photos and a good chat later, let’s head to Fast Eddie’s Bon Air to dine on fries and peeland-eat shrimp, throw back some brews and listen to live music.
Nick Palank Assistant General Manager, Hotel Ignacio
Hometown: St. Louis
adventure are always a plus, too.
What is your best feature? My dimples.
Where are your favorite places in St. Louis for a night out on the town? The Central West End is a great spot to grab a bite to eat and get drinks with friends. Sekisui is my favorite go-to sushi place in the South Grand neighborhood. Other nights, I might be found in South City in a local bar watching a Cardinals or Blues game.
What traits do you most admire in others? I look for someone who has a good sense of humor and knows when to joke around and when to be serious. I admire someone who has a goal in life and knows where they’re going. Confidence and a sense of
What’s your next big adventure? I am planning a trip to Pamplona, Spain for the Running of the Bulls in the summer of 2012. Describe your best date idea, ALIVE Dates style. How about we… pretend we’re tourists and check out the city’s bests like the City Museum and the Arch, followed by a Cardinals game and trying the city’s best restaurants all along the way.
Cassandra Giaimo Senior Global Assignment Consultant, SIRVA Relocation
Hometown: St. Louis What is your best feature? My eyes. What traits do you most admire in others? I admire those who are confident and comfortable with themselves, have a compassionate nature and who look for laughter and humor in life. Where are your favorite places
in St. Louis for a night out on the town? Soulard, Lafayette Square and Clayton are my go-to places in St. Louis to hang out. What’s your next big adventure? Every year I choose five to six items from my bucket list and make them my adventures for that year—no matter how big or small. In 2012, I plan to sing karaoke (I’m terrified to sing in public), learn how to snowboard,
run a half marathon and travel to Greece or Italy. Describe your best date idea, ALIVE Dates style. How about we…go zip lining?
OLA Hawatmeh CEO, Mom Me Makeover; CEO and designer, Ola Style; Founder, Makeover for a Cause
Hometown: New York What is your best feature? My mind—I am always looking to accomplish everything I desire in my heart. I believe that nothing is impossible if you set your mind to it. As for physical features, I am known for my big hair and eyes. What traits do you most admire in others? I admire meeting people who are genuine and are
motivated in life and their careers. I also admire confidence! It’s the best accessory in a person by far. Where are your favorite places in St. Louis for a night out on the town? Oishi restaurant—I love sushi! My next favorite place would have to be the movies with my boys.
ALIVE SPECIAL PROMOTION
What’s your next big adventure? New York and Las Vegas fashion weeks, and getting Ola Style in more pop-up boutiques in New York. My next show is at Maserati in New York, where I will be showcasing exclusively to buyers and guests.
Photos shot at The Laurel Apartments, laurelstl.com.
scene
Scene in St. Louis: Men of Style Event November 16
THE PLACE: 10denza
THE PARTY: St. Louis’ best-dressed gentlemen graced 10denza in the Central West End on Nov. 16 for the ALIVE Men of Style event, honoring this year’s ALIVE Men of Style: Patrik Berglund, Fred Bronstein, Christopher Chung, Jeff Clarke, John DeGregorio, Sam Foxman and Anthony Slaughter. Previous Men of Style, ALIVE VIPs and supporters toasted to fashion and good taste while sipping complimentary Jack Daniels whiskeys, as well as Budweiser, Bud Select, Stella Artois and Shock Top, and noshing on appetizers from Gregory’s Creative Cuisine while shopping in the brand-new retail space. Photos by Lauren Hammond, ALIVE Scene Team. For more photos, log on to alivemag.com/photos.
Peter Mosanyi & Jeff Kapfer
Michael Gow & Darren Compton
Jennifer Dulin Wiley, Wesley Law & Kelly Hamilton
Liz and Fred Bronstein
Sam Foxman & Damon Johnson
Mary and Jeff Clarke & Trevor and Anita Collis
114 ALIVE STL JANUARY 2012
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scene
Scene in St. Louis: Ice Ball December 3
THE PLACE: Roberts Orpheum Theater
THE PARTY: St. Louis’ most stylish came together for the first annual Ice Ball, presented by Paul Mitchell the School, St. Louis. The evening kicked off with an alternative dance show, featuring designs and styling by Kink Hair Salon, JC Designs, Hyper Haute and Kreations by Kelsey. Dancers from local universities showed off their ornately styled hair through captivating modern dance. Next came a runway show of cutting-edge hair styles by a variety of local stylists and Paul Mitchell students. Two young cancer survivors walked in the runway show as ambassadors of Children’s Miracle Network. VIP guests sat at tables beautifully decorated by Rich West Designs and enjoyed bottle service courtesy of 901 Tequila and Absolut Vodka. The show was followed by a silent auction, with proceeds benefiting Children’s Miracle Network and the Andrew Gomez Dream Foundation. Guests closed out the evening with an after-party at Shiver. Event consulting and PR was provided by Rock Uniform Midwest. Photos by Kylie Schweiss and Kevin Shee, ALIVE Scene Team. For more photos, log on to alivemag.com/photos.
Brad Green & Jessica Shirshekan
Mark and Alyssa Welch Michael Crane & Corey and Rachel Johnson
ALIVE JANUARY 116116 ALIVE STLSTL august 20112012
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Scene in St. Louis: ALIVE Holiday Bash
Emily Powderly & Irbad Chowdhury
December 9
THE PLACE: Mandarin Lounge
THE PARTY: Partygoers turned out in style for this year’s annual ALIVE Holiday Bash at Mandarin Lounge in the Central West End. Guests mingled throughout the bar in sharp cocktail attire and posed for commemorative photos by GoodEye Photoshare, while enjoying complimentary Bud Light and Shock Top and tasty appetizers courtesy of The Fountain on Locust. It might have been a cold night outside, but Mandarin’s fabulous patio was tented and cozy, and the party continued late into the night as guests danced their way into the holiday season. Photos by Lauren Hammond/ALIVE Scene Team. For more photos, log on to alivemag.com/photos.
Joseph and Kim Zeable & Adam McCoy
Kelly Hamilton & Sarah Bruno
Stephanie Oliver & Cheresse Pentella Chris Benson & Natalia Sirtak Cathi Cowan & Sylvia Robbins
scene
Scene in St. Louis: Le Cirque, An Unravel Event October 20
THE PLACE: The Palladium Saint Louis
THE PARTY: More than 500 of the city’s fashion and home design enthusiasts gathered at The Palladium Saint Louis to see local design schools and the city’s hottest interior design firms face off on the runway for Le Cirque, An Unravel Event. Sponsored by the International Interior Design Association, the event challenged designers to use unconventional materials (from carpet to wallpaper to tile) to create exciting couture looks, inspired by Cirque du Soleil, which would transform on the runway. Christner, Inc. took home the Best in Show prize, Nehring Design was recognized for Best Concept to Creation and Kiku Obata had the Best Construction, according to Unravel judges: designer Michael Drummond, Nine West Footwear VP of Sales Brian Clore, Vital Voice Publisher Darin Slyman and ALIVE Executive Editor Jennifer Dulin Wiley. Photos courtesy of Joe Vavek & Hilary Machovina.
Michael Drummond, Brian Clore, Darin Slyman & Jennifer Dulin Wiley
Rachael Berry & Brittany McNairy
Shanna and Daryl Gourley
Meredith Milner, Karey D. Brown & Laura Meyer
118118 ALIVE STLSTL august 20112012 ALIVE JANUARY
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Archetypes
Carl Phillips An interview with Carl Phillips, poet and professor of English and African/African-American Studies at Washington University and 2011 finalist for the National Book Award. What is your current mood or state of mind? Wondering if a poem I just wrote is finished. What makes you happy? Knowing I’ve written a good poem, good sex and excellent food, especially if I made it myself. What is your idea of misery? Living without imaginative risks. What did you eat for breakfast today? An English muffin and a glass of orange juice. What is one word that describes you? Centaur. What trait do you value most in others? Directness, even though it can hurt. What’s your favorite occupation? Probably prep work for cooking; it’s a real release, and it’s the opposite of writing or teaching. Who would you most like to be? Madonna in the time of “Erotica.” I like the sacred and the profane. What is your favorite color? Blue. What is your favorite food? Pasta.
120 ALIVE STL APRIL 2010
What food do you like the least? Liver. If you could have dinner with anyone (dead or alive) who would it be? Billie Holiday, as long as she’s having a good day. What vice do you most tolerate in others? Overeating. What talent do you wish you had? The ability to play the bass guitar. Who is your favorite author? Li Po, the Chinese poet. What excites you? Reasonable risks. What do you consider a turnoff? Bad bed habits, like hogging the sheets or eating something gross in bed, like a sloppy joe. What do you love? I love animals and serving food. What do you hate? Intolerance of difference. What are you most looking forward to? The next poem. What is one thing you wish would happen? That I get to live a long time in good health and that I have the time and energy to keep surprising myself. What is your favorite quote? “I’d rather have people ask why there’s no statue of me in Rome, than why there is one,” Cato the Elder. What is something you want to learn? I want to know more dances. I do the Continental very well. What is your personal motto? At the end of the day, you have to be true to yourself. In another life, you would be: It might have been nice to be Sophocles. What is your current obsession? New music; it’s an ongoing one.
ALIVE MAGAZINE | January 2012
What is your favorite word? Fuck. I’m told I use it a lot. I use it as an expression of joy. What is your least favorite word? Genitalia. What is on your “bucket list”? I hope I’ve written some poems that are memorable. And, to have a vegetable garden, live in view of the ocean and invent my own recipe. Your hidden talent: Cleaning a toilet bowl. Personal hero: Nina Simone, a talented singer and social activist. If you could have a conversation with your younger self, what would you say? You don’t have to be afraid. Things are going to go in directions you never imagined. And, you’re not the loser you think you are.
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.
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