The Summer Soiree Issue - August 2018

AUGUST 2018

r e m m Su oiree S sue

The

Is

P I CTU RE PERF E C T PA RT I E S | T H E SUMMER LOOK BOOK | COASTAL TRAVEL E SCAPE S

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G R A N D T O U R I N G S U PE R YACH T S

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HISTORY NEVER AWAITS FROM BEHIND.

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Made LIFESTYLE COLLECTION

@SHOPMADELC

Editor-in-chief Bridgette Wright

Creative Director Design Director Beauty Director

Design Assistant Editorial Assistant Feature Writers

Erin L. Hubbs Beth Boulware Jesse Pellington

JoVanni Smoot Molly Weisner Janice Brady, Dana Farrior

OUR MAILING ADDRESS 15105 John J. Delaney Drive, Suite 177, Charlotte, NC 28277 +1-704-313-8102 | TellUs@CarolinaSTYLEMag.com

Carolina STYLE Magazine is published by STYLE Media, LLC. SUBSCRIPTIONS www.CarolinaSTYLEMag.com/subscribe www.CarolinaSTYLEMag.com

editor's note When I think about summer, I think about bathing in the sun on the beaches, cross-country travel adventures and of course unbearable heat. My entire family of six has birthdays throughout the summer too, which means summer is about parties and gatherings.

Speaking of gatherings, our Creative Director, Erin L. Hubbs, had lunch with two of the most coveted event designers in Charlotte, NC John, and Andrew of John Lupton Events. In their first magazine interview, they're sharing photos from some of their favorite events and talking about their faced-paced career as event designers (pg XX).

Jesse Pellington, our beauty director, shares some of the items she lives by when the heat turns up a few notches in the summer months(pg XX.

The B-Twins turned two in June. The ETwins turned eight in August.

I'm sharing some of my favorite things this summer including some new items I've found as well as a few things I've used for quite some time now (pg XX).

New to our STYLE pages are tours of some very well designed homes throughout the region. We asked Carolina-based interior designers to share some of their latest projects with us for design inspiration (pg XX).

Finally, our ever-expanding travel section features coastal destinations we've experienced over the past few months. We'll share with you where to eat, play and stay at these locations.

My husband and I had our first vacation together in nine years.

Summer is coming to a close, but we still, have a few more weeks to enjoy all the pleasures our vacation days allow. In the end, it's not necessarily how you spend your time, it's whom you spend your time with that matters.

Enjoy the rest of summer!

Love and light,

Brie Wright EDITOR-IN-CHIEF @ITSBRIEW

C O N T beauty & style

13 BEAUTY BUYS Our Beauty Director shares her must-haves for the season.

14 THE SUMMER LOOKBOOK PerfectLENA pieces for each festive MOST WANTED ROSARIO occasion.

FASHION NEW LOOK

lifestyle

24 LIFE OF THE PARTY An interview and photo essay with Charlotte's most coveted event designers.

31 MY FAVORITE THINGS Our Editor-in-Chief shares what THE BAG she's loving FASHION this season.

AND SHOE TRICKS FOR THIS SEASON

E N T S travel

32 THE MIAMI MUST DO Picture locals on morning runs and yacht watching in the park.

40 TOURING AND TASTING WILMINGTON Where to eat, play and stay in this popular port city.

48 ONE OCEAN

MOST LENA WANTED ROSARIO Reconnect, rejuvinate and relax FASHION NEW LOOK at this Atlantic Beach, Florida boutique hotel.

home

56 LUXURY BY THE LAKE Designer Lauren Clement shares her recent design of a beautiful Lake Norman home.

66 OLD WORLD CHARM Designer Amy Amy N. Lee shares a transitional twist on the typical old world style.

PALATE PLEASERS 20BAG THE FASHION AND SHOE Make your own Mahi with TRICKS FOR THIS SEASON Blueberry Olive Tapenade.

Michelle Dianne Salon

4

beauty buys

for the lips Milani Lipsticks

Our Beauty Director, Jesse Pellington, shares her beauty product musthaves for beating the heat, protecting your skin and looking glowy.

1

5

for the cheeks

for the hair

Benefit

Fekkai

2

for the face Becca

6

for the skin Neutrogena

3 for the eyes Lancome

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for the body NARS

Summer

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(l to r) Andrew Thomas and John C. Lupton with their daughter, Tilly.

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LIFE OF THE PARTY Lead artist John C. Lupton and partner Andrew Thomas are known as the creative designers revered for show-stopping theatrical events branded under John Lupton Events. With nearly two decades of combined floral and fauna art, both John and Andrew are the heart of every event while also being its best-kept secret.

John Lupton Events media accolades include features with New York Times Page Six, Vanity Fair, Town and Country, Vogue, Martha Stewart Weddings, Southern Living, Garden & Gun, Veranda, Dini, ORCHID BALL, and MTV, making this creative duo more popular across the U.S. than you might believe. One look at their Instagram account (@JohnLuptonEvents) and you'll see why they are coveted for some of the most highbrow events.

When sitting down in Charlotte, North Carolina, with both John and Andrew for lunch, we discussed what it's like being sought-after artists pushing their creative process and traveling across America.

When stepping back and reviewing your portfolio, I would like to understand what exactly is John Lupton Events? To me, I am lost in the beauty of the final product but understand production is much more.

JLE: I would like to think that our work encompasses and puts forward an emotion, as well as just being a pretty thing. I try to make every event unique to the client who’s having the event and make it exude them as well as my interpretation of them.

To keep the magic of John Lupton Events simple, you are design artists including a design-build company for styled events from the ground up?

JLE: It’s more about building an experience that people are going to be in for a certain amount of time. Knowing how a tablecloth, a flower, a chandelier play together at six at night as opposed to eight at night as opposed to midnight.

You are the artistic group who sets the staging, designs the florals and flow of the evening and not the event planner; is this correct?

JLE: Right. If I want something to eat if I have a plate in my hand and I'm done with it, where does it go? That needs to be in consideration. We prefer to be in charge from the ground up because we know not to pick the wrong floor. You know if you picked the wrong floor and you try to do ‘x’ with it, it may not be the best idea. We build with experience from the ground up.

Do people often say ‘I don't need an event or wedding planner? I just want you?’

JLE: We do recommend that they get a planner depending on how complicated the event is.

Clients will have needs to consider such as hotel accommodations and transportation for their guest. Planners are also a great client resource for us. The planners spend much more time normally in advance with the client. This benefit gives them a really good understanding of the client and can help me understand the client.

They've been able to gain clean knowledge that the client might not even have themselves.

"I want to know what you want your event to feel like."Â From that experience and training, we speak the same lingo so we can shorthand a conversation where I might have to talk to a client for two hours to understand.

When guests enter one of your events, immediately cameras come out as they see a perfect photograph. You have set the magic of space with lighting, florals, linens, furniture; it exudes your clients' goals perfectly. What is one unique production item you have taken into consideration to make every angle photogenic?.

JLE: Not necessarily that it's going to be photographed. Things come to mind such as draping a bump out for a viewing screen. I thought about if I'm sitting at this table, where can I see a screen?

Which way to turn, but they only had to do like this (turns head slightly to the left and right), [which]was extremely planned out.

What is the shortest amount of time you had to put on your largest production?

JLE: A private dinner, 13 days and 65 guests.

What was a unique event item that pushed your creativity?

JLE: Anthropomorphic flamingos in ballet tutus playing flaming croquet on a freshly painted lawn.

Most bizarre design request that fulfilled your artistic drive?

JLE: Plantation Scottish taxidermy. I love working with this client because she'll give me just the most bizarre direction.

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Most recent client design theme you clicked within under five seconds?

JLE: When a client said 'Boho Swedish', it hit me.

Could you share a few names of distinguished guests who have graced your tables at public events? I know Andre Leon Talley was the distinguished guest at the Mint Gala honoring Oscar de la Renta.

JLE: Some recents are January Jones and Renee Zellweger.

What do people need to know before visiting you?

What information do they need to bring to you?

JLE: A headcount and a date. I'd love to have a few descriptive words of what you [want the event] to feel like, not specifically what you want it to look like. I want to know what you want your event to feel like.

As artists, you grow with your work. How do you encourage each client with a new design as each event you design is proprietary to its original visionary?. Do you steer people away from the desire to emulate?

JLE: I think you have to remind people. I think sometimes it's important to come back and remind people of what they were originally. Brides who get started and they have an idea of what they want, and then they look at five hundred wedding magazines.

They come back in; they are like ‘I have seen so much, I just want to default to what I know.

What would you like to see more of with wedding design?

JLE: We'd love to see more color.

What's a classic event must?

Good lighting. The best example is candle-lighting if it's after dark. It’s also essential and follow through on the little details.

What is the most important mantra you carry and recommend a host or hostess adopt during the event planning process?

JLE: Guest experience is number one.

Brie's Favorite Things Our Editor-in-Chief, Brie Wright, shares some of her favorite things to take to the beach.

beach bag

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Scout Bags

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5

summer fragrance Benefit

Dolce & Gabbana "Garden"

for the soul

Grace Not Perfection, Emily Ley

1 2

in room spa Urban Skin Rx

for your ears For Love & Lemons

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for the sand Skova Travel Towel Collection

TRAVEL YOUR STYLISH JOURNEY BEGINS

THE MIAMI MUST-DO A WEEKEND AT THE JULIA HOTEL

Compared to its infamous counterpart, South Beach, Miami’s South of Fifth Street District or SoFi (pronounced like Sophie) as it's called, offers an alternative to the flashy party scene — picture locals on morning runs and yacht watching in the park. If this is your preferred atmosphere, The Julia Hotel will be your next favorite destination spot.

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THE JULIA OUTSIDE PATIOÂ

he Julia Hotel is a 29 room, adultsexclusive boutique hotel located in Miami’s South of Fifth neighborhood, SOFI, one block away from the beach. Built from the foundation of the third oldest hotel in Miami Beach, this art-deco inspired property is named after and influenced in design by Julia Tuttle, the often-proclaimed mother of Miami. Upon entering this adults-only getaway, you’re greeted by the property’s muse herself, as interpretive images of her and her friends and family adorn the walls.

1.THE JULIA LOBBY DECOR 2. THE JULIA LOUNGE AREA 3. THE JULIA PATIO

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JULIA STATUEÂ

The beauty of the lobby lies undeniably in the details; with its subtle furnishings and large, floor-toceiling windows, space feels more like your private sunroom rather than a hotel entrance.

However, the unique artistic touches don’t stop there. Of all 29 different rooms, each imparting a slightly different personality, I stayed in one of five, two-story Ibis rooms featuring vaulted ceilings from which hand-crafted paper butterfly art installations dangled, reminiscent of a kaleidoscope. Each in hues of greens, blues and pinks, colors all native to Florida’s natural color palette, the artwork was handcrafted by renowned Japanese paper artist, Yumiko Mizutani. The butterflies are light enough to slightly sway and add soft movement to the room.

1.THE JULIA IBIS BEDROOM 2. THE JULIA LOBBY 3. THE JULIA BREAKFAST

Modeled with community and functionality at the helm, what The Julia lacks in ostentation it more than makes up for in comfort and comradery.

Their daily French-inspired continental breakfast features pastries from local favorite Zak The Baker, as well as a nightly wine and cheese happy hour, are best enjoyed in the communal lobby space or ample porch seating available. In addition to sufficient onsite lounging, through a partnership with Boucher Brothers, visitors have access to complimentary beach chairs and towels daily. Leaving you with just the essentials, The Julia is perfect for the traveler who seeks to explore all SoFi has to offer.

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK I couldn’t have arrived in Miami at a better time. The April weather brought a cool breeze as we sat and enjoyed a local favorite, Pure Vida, in scenic South Pointe Park.

Given the year-around subtropical climate, just about every season is swimsuit season, and with that in mind, there are lots of healthy eateries around the city--Pure Vida being one of them. The lite but filling fare paired perfectly with people-watching and boat ogling.

Not to mention, the restaurant is just a short walk to the beach.

After enjoying a late lunch, my fellow travelers and I leisurely made the short walk back to our rooms where we freshened up before the aforementioned happy hour and dinner at South Beach’s largest Italian restaurant, Cibo.

Cibo’s wine collection, which exceeds more than 3,000 bottles, is a local treasure, held in high regard by wine-savvy restaurateurs. The bottles are housed in a soaring two-story, award-winning wine room equipped with a harnessed “wine angel.” Yes, you read that correctly; I’ve been to heaven, and it serves wine and carbs. The wine angel climbs into the harness, and is gracefully lifted into the air to retrieve bottles stored dozens of feet high. A few will even entertain with flips mid-air. If that isn’t enough, Cibo boasts an expansive 3rd-floor rooftop space with separate wine and beer bars.

1. CIBO "WINE ANGEL" 2. WOLFGANG CAJUN RIBEYE 3. WOLFGANG RED WINE

1. DESSERT FEATURED AT MCT 2. BIG PINK BRIOCHE FRENCH TOAST 3. MCT COCKTAIL

ENDLESS CUISINE You can’t forget the most important meal of the day, breakfast, and there’s no better spot to try that than at the retro and picture-perfect Big Pink. This famed local diner is enjoyed by many for its one-of-a-kind biscuits and extensive comfort-food menu. It also makes for the ideal selfie spot with their millennial pink décor and piled-high portions.

The outdoor venue is perfect for weddings, corporate events or little alfresco dining. If you prefer classic American fare with breathtaking sunset views on the water, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse is your place. After opening its South Florida location back in 2013, Wolfgang’s continues to elevate their standards of perfectly prepared dry-aged steak. Did I mention all steak preparation is done on the premises for an average of 28 days? My personal favorite was the sizzling Canadian bacon, proving that something so simple can taste delicious. Pair this with the seafood platter, and you have yourself a whole new twist on surf and turf (I know, they typically call pork the 'other white meat' but bear with me here).

Cocktail hour calls for The Wharf. Recently opened and situated on the Historic Miami River, The Wharf is an open-air special event space equipped with two bars, multiple food trucks and a poppin’ DJ spinning all the hits.

Lastly, round out your foodie adventures with a Miami Culinary Tour. Choose from one of four daily food tours throughout the city’s most celebrated neighborhoods. Discover all that South Florida’s art and culinary communities have to offer. Venture through a roughly twoand-a-half hour tour with fun and highly knowledgeable guides while they provide a lite bite, brief history and the significance of each eatery.

MY GUIDE, KEVIN, WAS ENGAGING, WELLINFORMED AND A TOTAL GENTLEMAN WHEN I FELL OFF MY PADDLEBOARD — TWICE. WHERE TO PLAY Let’s be honest. Most folks expect to spend some quality time beachside in a beautiful coastal city like Miami. For those of you who value your sleep on vacation, the Third Street sunrise Beach Yoga may not be for you. However, morning yoga is a great way to enjoy the beach before the scorching Miami heat reaches its peak. Then again, if you don’t consider yourself a morning person, sunset classes are available, as well.

If you’re still in need of a bit more sun-worshipping, head to South Beach Kayak for a guided or solo tour with your choice of kayaking or paddle boarding. My guide, Kevin, was engaging, well-informed and a total gentleman when I fell off my paddle board — twice. Did I mention I’ve paddle boarded several times prior and managed to fall off when met with the wake of a nearby boat EVERY-SINGLE-TIME? The two-hour tour includes sights of gorgeous waterfront properties once and/or currently owned by famous celebs, as well as marine life sightings if you’re lucky.

1. FROST SCIENCE MUSEUM" 2. DETAILS OF FLORIDA POWER & LIGHT COMPANY SOLAR TERRACE 3. MANGROVES EXHIBIT

If you’re looking for an escape from the heat, check out The Phillip and Patricia Frost Science Museum. The building is divided into four interconnected floors: a planetarium, aquarium, West Wing (rooftop lunar terrace) and North Wing (Feathers to Starts exhibit and River to Grass exhibit). Each division seamlessly connects to highlight the varying areas of scientific study like solar exploration, biodiversity and paleontology. Young or old, visitors will get lost in the wonderment of the Frost Museum. My personal favorite tied for the aviary cage or the crocodile tank, mostly because they sat still the longest for photo ops. Ultimately, for a laid-back Miami getaway look no further than SoFi and The Julia. Pair its casual atmosphere with proximity to shopping, dining, and sightseeing and you’ll be sure to enjoy yourself.

I WAS PLEASANTLY SURPRISED AT ALL THERE IS

TO DO WEEKENDER'S GUIDE TO TOURING AND TASTING WILMINGTON

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L

et's face it - we all look for somewhere to go for a quick weekend away from home. Close enough to get there within a couple of hours but far enough away to make you feel refreshed when it's time to head back to work or school on Monday. If you live in the Carolinas, a visit to Wilmington, North Carolina, is definitely the answer!

I spent a few days exploring Wilmington recently and was pleasantly surprised at the convenience and all there is to do.

Where to Stay There are several places to stay along the water, as well as downtown, that offer great rooms, food and views. Hampton Inn, Aloft Hotel and Hotel Ballast (a Tapestry Collection hotel by Hilton) all offer anything you will need for a few days rest and relaxation. All are conveniently located for touring Wilmington.

The Embassy Suites by Hilton Wilmington Riverfront Hotel was my home for a few days, and I was thrilled with the location and the hotel itself.

The Embassy Suites is located adjacent to the Wilmington Convention Center and is one of the newest hotels in the area. Opened in early 2018, they offer all two-room guests suites, daily free breakfast, 42 | Carolina STYLE Magazine | August 2018

Cloud 9 rooftop deck and bar and stunning views of the Cape Fear River.

The rooms are large, well furnished and comfortable. Since the hotel sits right along the Riverwalk you couldn't have a better place to start a day in Wilmington. It's an easy walk down the boardwalk to shops and restaurants.

What to See The renewed riverfront has been expanded and is now home to new and renovated hotels, waterfront restaurants, rooftop bars, a marina and an event pier. Everything is connected by the Riverwalk which is full of tours, small shops and cafes.

The River District combines historic charm with modern design and is an easy walk to downtown where you can find so many restaurants you'll have a difficult time choosing where to dine. You can go shopping and even take a horse drawn carriage ride. The downtown area offers breweries, shopping and outstanding food.

Free activities and festivals fill the calendar with special ways to spend your days while visiting Wilmington.

The Shell, which is perched along the water at Port City Marina hosts concerts and private events, while being surrounded by water on three sides and is within walking distance of a beautiful city park.

Wilmington, North Carolina, was selected as one of TripAdvisor's 2018 Traveler's Choice for "Top Destinations on the Rise" for good reason.

The River District is full of historic charm, mixed with new attractions and modern designs. An easy walk to the downtown area gives visitors access to hundreds of restaurants, charming boutiques and attractions. Nearby beaches add a little extra into what there is to do for any visitor.

The U.S.S. North Carolina battleship sits regally along the Cape Fear River as a museum full of World War II artifacts.

Wilmington is within easy driving distance to three area island beaches. Wrightsville, Carolina and Kure Beaches all offer and quick beach day when visiting the area. The Carolina Beach Boardwalk is nationally recognized as a vacation destination. Kure Beach offers historic sites to tour and the North Carolina Aquarium. Wrightsville Beach is the place to visit for surfers and water-sport enthusiasts.

"Everything is connected by the Riverwalk which is full of tours, small shops and cafes."

What to Eat If you want to get a true sample of the food in Wilmington, take a tour with Taste Carolina! Taste Carolina Gourmet Food Tours connects visitors with the best restaurants in the downtown area of Wilmington.

They offer walking tours that will give you a sample of some of the best area dining spots, as well as corporate and private events. I couldn't have asked for a better way to be able to sample what the Wilmington area has to offer when it comes to food.

Fork-n-Cork - Without any doubt one of the food highlights of the tour for me. A small location on Market Street that started out as a food truck and now offers such delicious and interesting items such as Rattlesnake Bites (no rattlesnakes involved), ribbon cut Fried Pickles, Duck Wings and Fonduta.

The Fork-n-Cork was recently highlighted on the Food Network show Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives with Guy Fieri. Once you visit, you'll understand why!

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Clockwise from top: Wrightsville Beach, shopping alley, aquarium at Fort Fisher

Pinpoint Restaurant - The Pinpoint serves food rooted in Southern traditions and locally sourced. The menu changes daily since it depends on the offerings of the Wilmington area farmers, fishermen, oystermen, and crabbers. Baked oysters and strawberry salad were among the items I sampled and a flourless chocolate brownie left me wondering how such simple dishes could be made to taste so heavenly!

Beer Bario - Â craft beer-infused modern Mexican with over 30 beers and margaritas on draft, this stop is definitely a hot spot in Wilmington. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating and in-house, fresh made chips and salsa that will help get any party started!

Savorez - run by a (very) young Wilmington native, the restaurant combines art, music, flavor and community into a dining spot that offers different flavors right along side southern favorites like shrimp and grits.

Sweet potato and goat cheese guacamole with house made chips can be a delicious starter or a meal in itself.

What's Coming to Wilmington The River Place Development plans are underway on development. The project is scheduled for completion in 2020 and will provide new and exciting places for visitors as well as the residents of Wilmington.

The new North Waterfront Park will include children's play areas, beer gardens, open lawn space and a new outdoor performance center that will host outdoor events and concerts managed by Live Nation.

The South Front neighborhood is being rejuvenated and re-purposed and is full of on-going renovations. A historic shirt factory has been made into apartments, and new and exciting restaurants are moving into the area, including Benny's Big Time Pizzeria owned by Celebrity Chef Vivian Howard.

Overall, Wilmington offers something for every visitor.

The area is full of historic buildings and homes, great restaurants, eclectic shopping and is close to beautiful beaches. Wilmington is definitely on the rise with upcoming new development. Why not spend a few days exploring Wilmington

From top: Strawberry salad from Pinpoint Restaurant, Beer Bario, Issue 27 | 234 seared tuna tostados from Savorez

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Relax & Retreat Whether honeymoon, babymoon, or just a weekend away, One Ocean Resort is the perfect place to relax, rejuvenate and retreat.

Clockwise from right: Pirate ship sailing by, Jamaican Coconut Crusted Snapper at Calypso and Big Island Crab Cake at Calypso.

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IT'S AN EARLY SUNDAY MORNING IN JULY. I FRANTICALLY JUMPED OUT OF BED AND WOKE MY HUSBAND. "The alarm didn't go off, and we're late!" I said in a panic. "We need to get ready quickly and get out of here as fast as we can!"

Since my mom and dad agreed to keep the kids while we were away, the plan was for the six of us (my husband, myself and our four kids) to sleep over at my mother's house on Saturday night, then leave at five on Sunday morning before the kids woke up to begin our drive to our first couples vacation in quite some time.

The last time we spent more than 24 hours together, without the kids, was our honeymoon in the Bahamas, almost nine years ago. So on this day, of course, my alarm didn't go off. My saving grace was my fear of oversleeping, which proved to be helpful and got us out of the house in enough time that only Bougette, my mother's Shih Tzu, was awake to see us off.

We were heading on a much-anticipated retreat to One Ocean Resort and Spa in Atlantic Beach, Florida. Just a short drive from the Carolinas, the boutique hotel is located in northeast Florida, one of the Jacksonville beaches or ‘Jax Beaches’ as they are colloquially known. The "Nantucket of the South," Atlantic beach is celebrated for its shingle-style mansions and cottages along Beach Avenue and Ocean Street.

As we drove onto the circular entryway of the hotel, the valets were eager to make our first impression a good one. Pleasant but not overbearing, they requested our bags and escorted us to the registration desk. I couldn't stop staring at the beautiful Spanish-style wooden and wrought-iron door that lead to an airy lobby. The lobby is spacious but also feels intimately residential. It feels as though we are in the home of one of our wealthy friends. There's also a photography gallery representing the confluence of art, luxury and nature. At the center of the lobby is a grand wrought-iron staircase that takes you to the main elevators, which are located directly in front of the spa.

We took the elevator to the top floor and walked the hall to the end, noticing each hotel door illuminated by the blue doorbell. Each room had either a full or partial view of the ocean.

When we entered the room, we immediately noticed the floor-to-ceiling windows and faux balcony that led to our view of the ocean. The room was decorated with a relaxing color palette of soft blues and warm golds.

The airy, oceanic-inspired décor is draped in soothing splashes of azure, sand and pearl. The laid-back, beach-chic atmosphere is a contrasting backdrop of artistic sophistication and beautiful beach style.

The hotel seemed to appear before our eyes as we were busy sightseeing the local shops and restaurants within walking distance of the hotel.

The resort is nestled directly across After snapping photos of the room, I from the picturesque Beaches Town jumped on the bed for my traditional Previous spread: An ocean Center, luring guests in with its brick hotel-bed jump and bed fall, being sure view of the resort. paved streets leading to an eclectic to get my husband in on the action as Opposite: Through this artful hallway of swirling waves in a mix of shops, restaurants, art galleries my "Instagram husband" for the wall of glass is Azurea’s ultrachic lounge. and nightlife venues. moment. Just as I finished my rituals, the

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Clockwise from top: Luxury Junior Suite, Dips Bar, Hideaway Bar, and Calypso West Indies Cuisine restaurant.

venture 29

doorbell rang. One of the vallets, Patrick, arrived with our luggage and to share the room amenities and docent services with us. Docents are personal concierge. They can pack and unpack your bags, make recommendations for local activities, steam and press your clothes and tend to any special requests you may have.

Parents traveling with babies will be happy to know docent services include items such as a bottle warmer, drying rack, bottle washer, baby oil, diaper cream and baby sunscreen towelettes when you're ready to make your trip to the beach. If you have your furry babies with you, their pet amenity package includes a pet bowl, doggie mints, treats, clean-up bags, toys and even a fluffy bed just for them. Pets also have their own in-room dining menu with treats such as Schnauzer Spinach Salad with Corn and Chopped Beef, Open Faced Beagle Burger, Feline Tuna Carpaccio (a thinly sliced ahi-grade tuna) or Foie Gras Pâté (made for only the finest breeds).

Traveling with neither furry babies nor human babies, we were pleased to know that our minifridge was stocked with beverages and, at any time, if we needed a refill on drinks or snacks, a docent will fill our request with one push of a button.

Our room was cozy and quiet (something we have not heard in a while); we didn't want to leave. But eventually, we ventured downstairs to find the Azurea, the hotel's fine dining restaurant boasting innovative and mouthwatering cuisine, as well as fresh seafood.

creative cocktails specially developed by the talented resort mixologists. Ours was Nolan, who crafted cocktails from the menu and eventually created something new for us. I ordered the Duke of Cuc (as in cucumber), a favorite summer cocktail, and my husband ordered the Mango Madness (Ketel One Vodka, Solerno Blood Orange Liqueur Mango, housemade Sour, and cilantro). The cocktails on the menu were excellent.

Venturing off the usual, we wanted to try one of Nolan’s creations, so he made us something he called the "Pain Killer"--his working title. After my husband had a sip, he donned it the "Stress Reliever," which I seconded after having a sip.

After drinks, we made our way to Azurea's dining area. Anita, our server, promptly came to the table to greet us and review the menu. We started dinner with their "breads and spreads" for our first course. We enjoyed artisanal sea salt and Vermont butter, watermelon mousse , extra virgin olive oil with balsamic vinegar and homemade pimento cheese. The bread presentation included an assortment of Asiago cheese bread, black olive bread, ciabatta and lavash.

For the second course, we feasted on their First Coast Fried Oysters and Azurea's baby romaine Caesar salad. The food was as delicious as the presentation was beautiful. and our table-side view of the ocean enhanced our dining experience. If you are one to take photos of your food, the lighting is more than optimal to take the most Instagram-worthy picture.

Located through an artful hallway of swirling waves in a wall of glass is Azurea’s ultra-chic lounge featuring a comfortable atmosphere and delicious drinks. The outdoor Verandina of the lounge offers the perfect setting to enjoy a quality cigar or settle in by the fire pit with a cocktail in hand.

For our main course, we had the Atlantic Coast Oceanic Mixed Grill (Boudin Blanc, which is the house-made seafood sausage, jumbo shrimp, fish du jour and garish du jour). Eric had the Catch of the Day Three Ways, which comes grilled, bronzed and beignet-battered.

The lounge offers community seating for a relaxed and sociable experience.

The Fountain Bar’s menu features an assortment of curated wine selections, bubbly Taittinger champagne and

For dessert, we ordered the dark chocolate macaron with strawberry compote and chocolate ganache. The macaron was the perfect balance of stiff and soft texture. The dark-chocolate center was very rich.

1 and 3. Drinks by the bar 2. Where we enjoyed a few good nights of rest 3. A photo of one the Grisham Suite.

We planned to walk off our meal touring the nearby Beaches Town Center. Instead, we walked right up to our room and called it a night.

The next morning we ordered in-room dining, which is my favorite part of waking up in the morning. No cooking, no sourcing food, no cleaning afterward. Ocean One makes it easy with their "One Touch" service, a button on the phone to order room service, housekeeping or anything else you may need during your stay.

We kept it simple for breakfast and ordered our usual room service meals:lox on a toasted bagel with the traditional accompaniments for me and pancakes and bacon for him.

After breakfast, I quickly got dressed to make sure I had enough time to enjoy the spa amenities before my 10 am appointment. One Ocean Resort & Spa has the only full-service oceanfront spa in northeast Florida, offering beautiful views of the rolling surf from the comfort of its meditation lounge. A stimulating sensory journey in an intimate setting, The Spa offers more than 40 marine-inspired rituals comprised of specialty treatments, unique massage styles, body wraps, peels, facials and more.

Danielle checked me into the spa then gave me the grand tour. We entered the women's locker rooms, which was also home to the pampering salon (for manicure and pedicure services) and warm jet pool. Around the corner were three showers - two Swedish- style showers and one steam shower with the Swedish shower heads. I selected the Swedish steam shower. Danielle started the shower for me and offered a mimosa. I could have stayed in this shower all day. The multiple jets and rain-shower head coupled with the steam was an invigorating hydrotherapy and detoxification treatment.

Once I stepped out into the air, I felt like a new woman.

Waiting for me in the lounge was a traditional mimosa with my name on it literally with the words "Ms. Wright.

Enjoy" written on a napkin. The spa 54 | Carolina STYLE Magazine | August 2018

"ONCE I STEPPED OUT INTO THE AIR, I FELT LIKE A NEW WOMAN." lounge is behind the main spa entry partitioned by floor-to-ceiling glass. I wasn't sure if I would be comfortable in the lounge with a potential audience behind me (remember the main elevators are a few feet away from the spa entry), but once you've finished your steam shower or soaked in the warm jet tub, you won't even notice the elevator hallway behind you.

My massage therapist Cassandra greeted me shortly after and walked me to the spa room.

She was made for this job; I could tell. She treated me to the One Ocean Signature massage, a 50 minute traditional Swedish massage combined with a choice of aromatherapy oils. After the massage, I headed back to the lounge to enjoy the beach view for just a few moments. Then I decided to head back to my room so my husband and I could enjoy actually being on the beach together.

One of the main reasons to visit a beachfront resort is to take advantage of the beach. We passed the heated pool and plush chaise lounges to the private boardwalk leading to the sweeping white sand beach. Once there, our beach attendant guided us to a set of umbrellas and lounge chairs. As our quick getaway was coming to a close, we were already making plans for a return visit.

One Ocean Resort & Spa was an excellent host for our much need time together to reconnect, rejuvenate and relax. After sitting in our chairs doing absolutely nothing but taking it all in, we decided to finally hit the water, which had the perfect waves for surfing.

"Do you feel like it's 2008 all over again?" I asked my husband in nostalgia. That was the year we met. The year we dated. The year it was 1. A photo of our dark just the two of us. The good times before the chocolate macaroon.

2. My husband and I enjoying good times plus four.

in-room dining.

3. Views from the spa lounge.

4. Our dinner at Azurea.

"No." He surprised me with his disagreement.

"It's better."

4 3

1 2

Clockwise from top: Luxury Junior Suite, Dips Bar, Hideaway Bar, and Calypso West Indies Cuisine restaurant.

venture 29

L aure n Cleme n t, o wn er o f L a uren N ico le De sign s sha re s how she marri e d fami ly-fri en dly de signs an d ve rsa ti le use o f space i n t hi s La ke No rma n ho me . by: Mol ly Wei sner

LUXURY by the LAKE

"[The room] is very comfortable, inviting, like a hands-off kind of living room.

We did not put a TV in there on purpose. [It's] truly a living room-conversation, hanging out--not so much just watching the TV." 58| Carolina STYLE Magazine | August 2018

"We added some drama with the artwork [and] the cut-outs. On either side above the bookcases...We [added] pretty greenery, and that visually takes up the space.�

"We added the drapery panels to soften the wall and add more drama, but again kept things fairly neutral color-wise...and left a little bit of that lake blue in the artwork above the main [fireplace]."

60 | Carolina STYLE Magazine | August 2018

"Color-wise, we really wanted to let the lake and the outside do the talking. That rug is like, truly, walking on a cloud. It’s so comfortable."

48 | Carolina STYLE Magazine | August 2018

“This is... a sitting room off a bedroom. I just love the chairs; they are piped, and the fabric...brings out the coral and the contrast. It just feels so ‘lake-living’ without being over the top.”

“ Thi s la ke hous e h as a lo t of di ff er en t a re as - t he pool, a lit tle pa tio, a n u ppe r d ec k. S o se at ing w as imp ort ant .

Th e g oa l: ke epi ng it c omf or tab le , ca su al, i nv iti ng . "

Old World Charm Amy N. Lee, ASID of Artistic Interiors shares with us her most recent project, a transitional twist on the typical old world style

66| Carolina STYLE Magazine | August 2018

A two story living space with a masterful light fixture as the centerpiece.

68 | Carolina STYLE Magazine | August 2018

A small nook in the house makes for the perfect minimal office space..

This hanging seating option is in the perfect space for reading on a leisurely afternoon.

70 | Carolina STYLE Magazine |August 2018

A master bedroom completed ideal for reading, writing and resting.Â

This happy toddler room makes for happy days and restful nights.

MAHI with

Blueberry

Olive Tapenade Chef Emily Lane Blueberry Olive Tapenade

1 teaspoon anchovy paste or 1 anchovy fillet, optional 1 clove garlic, finely minced 2 tablespoons capers drained and minced 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, or more to taste 2 sprigs fresh thyme leaves, minced 1 cup pitted Kalamata olives, minced 1 cup fresh, ripe blueberries, halved 3 tablespoons olive oil Sea salt, to taste If using a whole anchovy, use a fork to press into a paste. In a mixing bowl combine the anchovy with garlic, capers, balsamic, thyme, olives, blueberries and olive oil. Season to taste with salt, pepper and more balsamic vinegar. Set aside while making the fish.

74 | Carolina STYLE Magazine | August 2018

Mahi 4 6-ounces Mahi filets (preferably with skin) Canola oil, for grilling Sea salt, to taste Freshly ground pepper, to taste 1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper. Set aside.

2. Preheat grill to high heat. Pat each fish filet dry and season the filets with salt and pepper. Drizzle with enough oil to lightly coat them.

3. When the grill is hot (450-500 degrees F), Place the fish skin side UP on the grill. Close lid and check in 5 minutes.

See if the filets move easily from their place on the grill. If they will not, allow them to sit, checking every 2-3 minutes until they remove easily without the flesh tearing. The fish is NOT cooked through at this time. Place on the parchment-lined sheet pan, skin-side down and grilled-side up. Top with the tapenade mixture. Bake until the fish is 135-140 degrees F internally.

Cooking times will depend on the thickness of the fish. I recommend starting with 10-15 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to rest while making the salad.

Arugula Salad 6 ounces fresh arugula or other local fresh lettuces 1 lemon, juiced Extra virgin olive oil, to taste Sea salt, to taste Freshly ground pepper, to taste 1. Toss the arugula with the lemon juice, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, salt and pepper to taste. Divide the salad among 4 plates. Top with fish, then extra tapenade to serve.

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