VOLUME 2. WHITE WINTER EDITION.
LIVE. LOOK. MAKE. ESCAPE. INSPIRE.
THE PARTY
Founder/editor in chief Creative and advertising director
JENNIFER CAMPBELL
Consulting creative director Web manager
SONIA PRICE
Executive art director/graphic design
SIMON LÉVEILLÉ Copy editor
ANDREA SHEPHERD Associate fashion editor
NINA MORIN
Contributing editor
SUZANNE WEXLER
Computer Graphics
MARIANNE BOUSQUET Video
GINGA TAKESHIMA Interns
ANGELLY CUSSE, ASHLEY KARP Contributing writers/special features
OLIVIA COLLETTE, CAIA HAGEL, PATRICIA GAJO, THE GLOBETROTTING GOURMET, ASHLEY KARP, JASON LAMARRE, NINA MORIN, DIMITRI PANOS, SONIA PRICE, TOMMY SCHNURMACHER, SUZANNE WEXLER, JANNA ZITTRER Features photographers
SAAD AL-HAKKAK, JORGE CAMEROTTI, MATHIEU FORTIN, TIM GEORGESON, MATTHEW LYNN, NEIL MOTA Event photographers
YANI ABDALLAH, MARC MURI, RADU DAICONU, KATE WALLACE Primary distribution Montreal Gazette-The Gazette (514) 987-2222 www.montrealgazette.com Also circulated with select retail partners and at select benefit and corporate events. Published by Diary of a Social Gal (D.S.G.) Management Inc. Printed by Imprimerie F.L. Chicoine. No part of a Diary of a Social Gal magazine may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior written consent from Diary of a Social Gal (D.S.G.) Management Inc. All views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those belonging to the editor in chief. Diary of a Social Gal Magazine takes no responsibility for any unsolicited manuscripts or photography. Copyright © 2012 Diary of a Social Gal (D.S.G.) Management Inc. All rights reserved. For more information or inquiries re: print and online advertising, please contact us directly at info@diaryofasocialgal.com. Special Thanks To Saad Al-Hakkak, Alan Allnutt, Jonathan Auerbach, Marianne Bousquet, Brahm Campbell, Gail Campbell, Natalie Chepurniy, Angelly Cusse, John Essaris, Randy Gates, Carolina Gallo Richer Laflèche, Caia Hagel, Rad Hourani, Isabelle Hudon, Ashley Karp, Sheila Kussner, Jean-Pascal Lemire, Karim S. Leduc, Joel Leonoff, Simon Léveillé, Cindy Levy, Christina Maselli, Tony Miceli, Nina Mourin, Vanessa Muri, Sonia Price, Jennifer Roman, Milad Sahafzadeh, Andrea Shepherd, Steven Smith, Johanne Sternthal, Cary Tauben, Ginga Takeshima, Andrew Torriani, Suzanne Wexler, Tim Zyto and the other angels too numerous to mention who continue to reinstate my faith in humanity. Thank you. Heart you much.
WWW.DIARYOFASOCIALGAL.COM
THE PARTY NEVER ENDS
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Content
WHITE WINTER EDITION LIVE THE PARTY
SPRING FABULOUSLY BACK INTO ALL THE ACTION THAT DEFINED THE SPRING/SUMMER SOCIAL SEASON. HIGHLIGHTS GALORE. NO SNORES. NO BORES.
20 WHITE ON
The 4th Annual Montreal Dîner en Blanc. The 5th Annual Notte in Bianco Benefit Evening.
24 MCCORD HITS EVENT BULL’S EYE … TWICE The Annual McCord Ball. The Young McCord Annual Sugar Ball.
30 DIARY IN DAFFODIL-LAND
The 19th Annual Daffodil Ball benefiting the Canadian Cancer Society.
32 FOR THE LOVE OF KIDS
The Annual ABC Ball for the Montreal Children’s Hospital Foundation.
38 THE GRANDEST F1 GRAND PRIX. REV THOSE ENGINES! The Grand Evening (a.k.a. Le Grand Soir). Hotel Le St-James’s annual F1 Grand Prix Bash hosted with Ferrari Maserati Québec.
40 F1 BLAZES ON
The Moët & Chandon Beach extraordinaire. Diesel presents CEE LO GREEN. La Coupole brings the Batmobile. Ferrari Québec and Ferrari North America’s annual F1 Grand Prix Celebration. The 2012 Code 20 Official F1 Closing Party. Big day at the Red Bull Infiniti Paddock Club. HUGO BOSS X McLaren. Rolls Royce Motor Cars Quebec’s official Grand Prix launch of the latest Phantom Series II.
42 LET’S DO LAUNCH
Sephora’s flagship super launch. AX Armani Exchange sets the scene on Ste. Catherine St. Maison Boulud opens festive doors at the Ritz-Carlton Montreal. Topshop’s stylish Montreal kick-off at The Bay downtown.
44 DIARY DOES LAUNCH
DIARYOFASOCIALGAL launches big
with the VIP opening of Ristorante Bice’s terrace, Il Giardino.
48 PARTIES PRIVÉS
The exclusive inside line on stylepreneur BRIAN CYTRYNBAUM’S rocking birthday bash. The elegant nuptials of DOROTHÉE LEPRINCE and JEAN-PHILIPPE SIMARD.
50 THE MAGIC OF MFW
The party that was Montreal Fashion Week (MFW), presented in collaboration with P&G Beauty & Grooming.
LOOK THE PARTY
WHERE A SMACK OF GOOD WINTER STYLE AND BEAUTY PIECES AWAIT …
54 DIARY LOVES FASHION
MAKE THE PARTY
INSPIRE THE PARTY
92 TABLE TALK: LOOKING THROUGH CRYSTAL GLASSES
114 SHOOTING FOR THE MOON, FALLING AMONG THE STARS
THE INSIDE SCOOP ON “MAKING” THE MOST OF THIS SEASON’S PARTIES .
Les DAMES DUMAS share precious setting tips for this season and beyond.
94 DAVID ADJEY DISHES
The outta-the-box celebrity chef on besting your next bash.
The designing dynamo weighs in on the season’s trends and how best to nail a party entrance.
60 A SOLE-FUL LIFE
Up close and personal with ‘Stiletto Sultan’ STUART WEITZMAN.
64 JENNERATION NEXT
Budding moguls/reality TV royals KENDALL and KYLIE JENNER dish on everything from style icons to their new clothing line.
Four of Montreal’s hottest restaurateurs talk party.
ESCAPE THE PARTY
FOR THOSE BETWEEN-BASH VALLEYS AND INTERLUDES WHEN RECHARGING AND REJUVENATING ARE AS ESSENTIAL AS BREATHING.
100 HIVING THE WHITE WAY
Philippe Starck protégé, interiors artist KELLY BEHUN confides the merits of a paler palette.
103 SPICE UP YOUR LIFE THIS WINTER A white-hot getaway to Grenada.
106 D.C.: THE ULTIMATE MIXER
80 THE FASHION FINALE
108 OLD WORLD CHIC, NEW WORLD WOW
A last ode to winter partywear thanks to SONIA’S SELECTS and CONNOISSEUR JAY.
82 TRESSING UP WITH MOROCCANOIL MANE MAN – ANTONIO CORRAL CALERO This season’s coifs and all else hair, as told to us by the uberbrand’s artistic director.
86 THE BRIGHT STUFF
Season-friendly beauty remedies for newly glowing complexions.
88 GO HARD OR GO OM?
Wondering where to work out this winter? Read this.
116 MAKING THE DIFFERENCE
A nod to an organization that goes the distance.
JUST FOR FUN
NO EXPLANATION NEEDED!
67 SUPERSARTORIALS FOR THIS SEASON’S PARTIES
Puttin’ on the Ritz in the grandest of style.
A candid and inspirational interview with ISABELLE HUDON.
96 THE SCENEMAKERS
A look back on spring-summer’s fabulously dressed, tressed, luxed and tuxed.
58 JAY GODFREY FROCKS
A CLOSER LOOK AT SOME EXTRAORDINARY MONTREALERS WHO MOTIVATE AND DRIVE THE PARTY. FOR A HIGHER PURPOSE.
The latest greatest on the U.S. capital. (You’ll wanna go too!)
NYC’s Mari Vanna perfects Russian fine dining.
110 SUPERWOMEN ON SUPERESCAPES MITSOU GÉLINAS and HEIDI HOLLINGER on how (and where) they recharge the batteries.
118 DIARY OF A SOCIAL PAL, AN AD HOC ADDENDUM The rhyme of a good time continues.
119 THE ADVENTURES OF REALLY, ROSIE Diary proudly presents some timely comic relief.
120 THE OFFICIAL VOL. 2 DIARY PLAYLIST Because magazines can be heard too.
121 SAYING GOODBYE WITH SOCIAL MEDIA
Insta-Diary and other fun with social media.
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Editor’s Note
THE MOST IMPORTANT THING ABOUT DREAMS IS HAVING ONE
Jennifer Campbell
R
ight now, you’re holding one of mine in your hands. For as long as I can remember, when it came to career, the dream was always media, every facet of it: newspapers, television, radio, and, yes, magazines. And while the journey has been anything but easy – nothing worth having ever is – the rewards along the way have been plentiful and deeply meaningful. I can honestly say that I’ve enjoyed every exhilarating, challenging, creative hard-won moment that has brought me to this indescribably joyful and pivotal place: the publication of DIARY OF A SOCIAL GAL’s second edition, which I’m so thrilled to share with you, our cherished readers and visitors online who have been so inspiring and supportive since the launch of the brand this past May. Your many letters and emails of encouragement and gratification have underscored why persevering toward the realization of a dream is so important. Any joy, entertainment and light that the Diary team and I have brought to your world is affirmation that our dedication and hard work is purposeful and has paid off. Your joy is our joy. In that vein, on behalf of all the talented writers and assiduous members of the crew, I sincerely hope that we continue to do you proud with this second issue, our special winter white edition. Why white? Well it’s the colour of the season, but it’s also so pure, beautiful, calming, serene and replenishing in its every incarnation. Whether worn (see our sartorial celebration of the hue), lived in (interiors artist Kelly Behun has much to report on the decorative power of pale), frolicked upon (Grenada’s pristine beaches are the ultimate temptation) or partied in (there’s a reason the Montreal Dîner en Blanc attracts thousands), white is just … right. PS: Speaking of dreams, another one of mine is growing the brand in new and innovative ways. That’s why today is, as well, the official launch of the second generation of DIARYOFASOCIALGAL.COM. That’s also why my sketched alter ego (thank you Dimitri) is wearing a dress, stilettos and ring from Diary’s clothing and accessory lines, coming soon. As another of my favourite sayings proclaims: DREAMS SHOULD BE A SIZE TOO BIG SO YOU CAN GROW INTO THEM. Amen to that. A happy, healthy, white-hot New Year to all. Wishing you every dream. Much xx toujours, JENN
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Contributors
SAAD AL-HAKKAK
’s striking photographs and signature style have propelled the young photographer (with an ever-endearing gleam in his eye) to the pinnacle of Montreal’s fashion scene. Completely self-taught, he is master of direction and always elicits the best from his subjects. For this edition of Diary, the rising star with an eye on the international dream turns his commanding lens on the fashion editorial Puttin’ on the Ritz (page 67).
JORGE CAMAROTTI
Brazilian-born Camarotti began his career as a graphic designer with a background in art. However, other artistic pursuits including photography and filmmaking soon beckoned. In 2007, his acclaimed short, Rising Son, was a selected finalist in a Canadian national film competition and in 2012, he won a prestigious BRAVOFACT grant for his fictional short film, 165 Days. Although he routinely travels to NYC and Paris to collaborate with such established artists as Feist, Seu Jorge, and Amon Tobin and shoots regularly for publications including Nylon, Vogue.IT and MIxte Magazine, the multitasking multitalent did carve out some time to shoot the Scenemakers’ portrait (page 96). Thanks, Jorge.
OLIVIA COLLETTE
has written about so many topics because this busy scribe is, well, interested in way too many things. She’s penned film essays for Roger Ebert’s Far-Flung Correspondents, deconstructed Mad Men for IndieWire’s Press Play, stayed in a log cabin with no electricity for enRoute, and, most recently, tackled urban development for the Montreal Gazette. When Jennifer approached her about interviewing Chef David Adjey for this edition’s MAKE THE PARTY section (page 94), Olivia couldn’t resist because for her, food isn’t so much an interest as the reason she can’t stick to a diet. The good news is, she loves vegetables. The bad news is, she loves carbs more. At parties, Olivia either hovers near the bread snacks or longs for them from a distance.
MATHIEU FORTIN
Working as an assistant for some of the world’s greatest photographic talents, including Walter Chin and internationally renowned Mariano Vivanco, has served Quebec native Fortin well. He is now an established lens master in his own right, shooting stories for high-profile publications and magazines like TANK. Most recently, his impressive body of work caught the eye of superdesigner Rad Hourani, with whom he has collaborated on several projects. Fortin’s candid and compelling shots of Mitsou Gélinas and Heidi Hollinger are a welcome addition to this volume (page 110).
PATRICIA GAJO The University of British Columbia grad has certainly earned her nickname, “Ms. Montreal”; she’s Montreal
editor for FASHION Magazine, blogger/vlogger at SID LEE’s Montréal Buzz for Tourisme Montréal, and author of the latest FROMMER’S guide to the city. When not investigating hot new local bars, spas, restaurants, and boutiques and interviewing homegrown celebs, unstoppable Gajo contributes to a host of other prestigious publications including enRoute, NUVO and the Globe & Mail. For this edition of Diary, she shows us why Grenada is a perfect winter escape (page 103).
TIM GEORGESON
’S advertising, art and environmental portraiture feature in The New York Times Magazine, Colors magazine, National Geographic, Code, and others. His avant-garde, award-winning print campaigns, shot with agencies and clients including KesselsKramer Amsterdam, 180, Glue Society, Nikon, Olympus, Levi’s, WWF and the United Nations have run around the world. Australian-born and partial to cool knitted tuques (even in summer), Tim has won a plethora of international prizes and shown his photos, in solo and group exhibitions, to critical acclaim. We’re thrilled to have him back on board, lending his talents for portraiture to two stories (pages 88 and 114).
GLOBETROTTING GOURMET (A.K.A. GG)
Though the globetrotting gourmet (who chooses to remain alluringly anonymous) is not a food critic per se, he may as well be given the gargantuan number of world-class eateries and food establishments he frequents on a regular basis. Add to that his almost fanatic love of cooking and entertaining – friends vie for invites to his themed dinner parties – and encyclopedic knowledge of the best dishes everywhere, we couldn’t imagine a better ambassador of food & fun. Dine with him in this edition at NYC’s trending Mari Vanna (page 108).
CAIA HAGEL
’s personality profiles, travelogues and design and art critiques appear regularly in international publications including Art Review, Azure, CODE, Elle, Marie-Claire, National Geographic, Oxygen, Rolling Stone, The Sydney Morning Herald, Vogue and Wallpaper. She is also no stranger to television where her award-winning television journalism has featured on CityTV/ Bravo productions’ Book Television, Fashiontv, Mediatv and Sextv. In 2010, Caia, along with her tuque-loving photographer husband Tim (above), co-founded rightfoot+creative, a boutique creative co-op that brings together cutting edge artists to create groundbreaking media. Given this love of creative expression and entrepreneurial drive, it’s no shock that Caia particularly enjoyed her sit-downs with sister go-getters, interiors artist Kelly Behun (page 100) and corporate marvel Isabelle Hudon (page 114).
ASHLEY KARP is proof that talent does not know age. Just 23, the McGill graduate joined Diary as an intern four months ago
(after a recommendation by her mom Gail) and has rapidly become an invaluable member of the team whose writing, editing, and proofreading skills are a gift from heaven (and Gail!). In fact, she’s never allowed to leave us to pursue a Masters degree at the University of Southern California. So what if it’s a lifelong ambition! For this issue, she shares the fruits of a recent exclusive interview with none other than the Jenner sisters, Kendall and Kylie (page 64).
JASON LAMARRE
is a brilliant young entrepreneur who has his hand in a number of hot ventures. He recently launched the company SOS Cardiaque with his dad, a long-time CPR instructor, with the noble goal of equipping as many Montrealers as possible with CPR certification. While business is the primary focus, Lamarre is also every inch the well dressed executive, and lucky for us, he indulges his love of good threads every Friday with a much-followed Connoisseur Jay fashion board on WWW.DIARYOFASOCIALGAL.COM. Even luckier? An impressive array of Connoisseur Jay’s selections grace this winter edition (page 80).
NEIL MOTA The Montreal-based portrait and fashion photographer has big talent. He also has a winning way with people,
immediately putting subjects at ease with his natural warmth and enthusiasm. Both have served him well in the industry. After only three years as a working photographer, he already has several important campaigns under his belt (i.e. Parasuco Jeans and ça va de soi) and has shot for publication leaders like ELLE Canada. On the portrait front, the celebrity count is no less stellar, with subjects including Georges St-Pierre, Amber Rose and fashion royal Carine Roitfeld. In this edition, he delivers the goods yet again on the shoot with Moroccanoil main man Antonio Corral Calero (page 82).
NINA MOURIN
has a passion for fashion and we’re so glad she does. As an associate fashion editor for Diary, she’s a welcome source of style scoop and fashion 411 both online and in print. For this edition of Diary, the in-the-know fashion journo and trendy gal about town serves up an exclusive profile of Stiletto Sultan Stuart Weitzman (page 60) and sits down with four of the city’s rockingest restauraters (page 96). Nina also contributes regularly to Vitamin Daily and Janna Zittrer’s Montreal Shopping Tours’ blog in addition to exercising her ad copy muscle masterminding creative campaigns for large-scale clients like Fido, Air Canada and Nivea.
SONIA PRICE
relocated to Montreal from Venezuela eight years ago as a fresh-faced teen. She continued her studies in graphic design and art history at Concordia University. Although the long-term dream is professional artist, of late she has been actualizing her professional potential and impressive skill set as a prized member of the Diary team. For this winter edition, in addition to her day-to-day contributions as consulting creative director and web manager, she brings her popular online feature Sonia’s Selects (appearing Mondays and Fridays on WWW.DIARYOFASOCIALGAL.COM) to print (page 80) and aces creative direction of the Scenemakers shoot (page 96).
TOMMY SCHNURMACHER
has come a long way since he babysat for John and Yoko at the Queen Elizabeth Hotel Bed-in. A veritable icon on the Montreal media scene, Tommy is the highly rated host of the 9 to noon show on CJAD radio and author of The Goldiggers Guide, Canada is Not a Real Country, and his most recent smash tome, Are We On Yet?: Insider Secrets On How To Be Interviewed and Other Essential Media Skills. Despite Jennifer’s love of all things Obama, he finds her wonderful still and couldn’t possibly refuse her scrupulously polite request for a sequel to his hit poem Diary of a Social Pal, which featured prominently in the inaugural edition. For this issue, he pens Diary of a Social Pal, An Ad Hoc Addendum (page 118 ).
SUZANNE WEXLER It may be winter, but Suzanne Wexler loves to compare writing to a summer’s day: Stories inflame passion, yet they are fleeting, wafting from one dreamy subject to the next. For this issue, she composed a travel piece on Washington, D.C. (page 106), took on table decor with experts from Marie Dumas (page 92), tried out the city’s latest fitness and training hotspots (page 88) and even created a timely comic strip titled Really, Rosie (page 119 ). When not monopolized by Diary, she jets off to L.A. for media training, learning to talk the talk on a variety of topics. Although she amasses subjects like flowers, this features writer can hardly be accused of dilettantism. With an M.A. and B.A. in interdisciplinary studies, her long-term pursuit will always be cultural understanding (so lovely, so temperate).
JANNA ZITTRER may be one of the most talented beauty and fashion writers around – she’s a frequent contributor to such
established publications as FLARE, LOULOU and Hello! Canada – but she’s also an inspired entrepreneur who recently launched Montreal Shopping Tours, a much-loved shopping service for fashion-loving tourists and locals alike. Although the busy journo and shopper-in-chief’s schedule is understandably packed, we’re thankful she found a window to share invaluable season-friendly beauty remedies for this edition (page 86). Our newly glowing complexions are especially appreciative.
For more of our contributors’ fabulousness (lots of it), hop to WWW.DIARYOFASOCIALGAL.COM.
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LIV E T HE PAR T Y
4th Annual Montreal Dîner en Blanc 5th Annual Notte In Bianco Benefit Evening
WHITE ON! S
eeing that this special winter edition of Diary embraces a whitehot theme, it’s only fitting that we initiate the LIVE THE PARTY section – showcasing highlights from the immediate past spring-summer social season – with a pair of events that did right by the white. The first, the 4th local edition of the Dîner en Blanc, took the city by stylish storm in mid-August, as some 4,000plus chic-as-can-be guests from Montreal and beyond donned their purest threads for what is arguably one of the glammest outdoor events in party city history. Originating as a simple picnic among friends in Paris 24 years ago, the Dîner has since mushroomed into a colossal international success, with a presence in 22 cities over four continents with fresh editions added every year. Guests, including Montreal’s own, simply can’t get enough of the unique all-white format and theme, which not only requires that an invite be extended by a pre-existing guest but also only reveals the soirée’s highly guarded locale at the absolute last minute (talk about a suspense-builder). And even luckier for us natives – AYMERIC PASQUIER (son of event founder FRANÇOIS PASQUIER and cofounder of Dîner en Blanc International
Inc. along with SANDY SAFI) has chosen to make Montreal his North American home for the past 10 years. How lucky can a party city get? Not done yet: Our second pale-perfect opener is the 5th Annual Notte In Bianco Benefit Evening in support of the Guzzo Environment-Cancer Research Chair, that was co-chaired once again in 2012 by devoted founders MARIA and VINCE GUZZO. At the risk of sounding broken record-y (we’ve profiled the evening before and my admiration for it was obvious), I won’t go on (and on) about the dazzling decor of the grounds and tent, impeccable four-course dinner and stellar entertainment by legendary MARTHA WASH and GINETTE RENO as well as JULIE MASSE and husband COREY HART (who, much to everyone’s delight, was on stage for a good 45 minutes delivering hits like Sunglasses at Night). But I will take a moment to note that, whatever the special ingredient for this year’s 5th anniversary edition (presented under the honorary presidency of FARAH and MARCO MATTIACCI, president/CEO of Ferrari North America), the light shone brighter than ever, and raised a soul-replenishing quarter of a mil for the Guzzo EnvironmentCancer Research Chair. Bravo.
BrownsShoes.com
Montreal QuĂŠbec Toronto Winnipeg Edmonton Calgary Vancouver
Photo: Barry Harris Studio
LIV E T HE PAR T Y Photography DÎNER EN BLANC
2 2 / DI ARY O F A SO C IA L G A L
ANNA JURKIEWICZ
LOLITTA DANDOY
LY-NA TOYE
KARINE GEOFFRION SANDY SAFY AYMERIC PASQUIER
KATE BAUMANN BILL BAUMANN
ERAN ELFASSY
YAËLLE PHILIPPE-AUGUSTE JERRY ELFASSY
PATRICK ELFASSY
JESSICA SCALERA EMILY DEANE ELISA DAHAN
JOSH SILVER SONIA PRICE
JOSEPH IANNICELLI CAROLINA IANNICELLI
Photography MARC MURI
SPIDEY
ELNAZ BALASHI
KRISTY STRATTON
MICHELLE MCHUGH
SYLVIE CHARRON
ALEXANDRA DIAZ INDIA HART SABINO GRASSI
VINCE GUZZO
MARIA GUZZO
JULIE DU PAGE CLARA GRASSI DANTÉ HART
BARRY GARBER
ANTONELLA ARGENTO
JULIE MASSE
RIVER HART
LINDA SMITH
RAIN HART
SONIA BENEZRA
JONATHAN SINGER LISA KISBER
SABRINA D’AMICO
UMBERTO BONFA
ANGELA BONFA
MICHELE CHRIQUI FRANCO ROCCHI
MARCO MATTIACCI
FARAH MATTIACCI
COREY HART CHERYL BESNER COHEN
MARTHA WASH
24 / DIARY O F A SO C IA L GA L
LIV E T HE PAR T Y
The Annual McCord Ball The Young McCord Annual Sugar Ball
MCCORD HITS EVENT BULL’S-EYE … TWICE ONE OF THE CITY’S MOST REVERED CULTURAL INSTITUTIONS, THE McCORD MUSEUM, DID NOT DISAPPOINT THIS SPRING-SUMMER, HOSTING TWO OF THE SEASON’S ROCKINGEST BENEFIT EVENTS … BACK2BACK.
I
ts first and biggest - the Annual McCord Ball - presided over by honorary ball president ROLAND LESCURE and ball committee chair CHRISTIANE LANGEVIN, moved party headquarters from their usual base at the museum to hot new venue Arsenal where, with a theme of ‘The Past Revisited-a Celebration of Montreal of Yesterday and Today’, it dazzled the finely turned out crowd of 400 from start to finish. Among the most entrancing lures in the McCord’s eventto-please arsenal were a champagne cocktail serving a hard-to-resist Moët & Chandon Impérial; gourmand souper by Cornellier Traiteur (grain-fed veal to covet); and a well-placed, wellreceived spotlight on SHINE, the group – who, with talent to spare, triggered the ultimate dance stir. Their second flagship soirée - the Young McCord Annual Sugar Ball chaired once again with fab&flair by twenty-something wonder women NADIA NIRO and ALEXANDRA SCHWARZ, radiated an equally impressive PV (party vibe) at the same venue
the following night. More than 400 of the ville’s hip young stylepreneurs with a yen for culture and history took to the celebration of Montreal past and present like bees to honey, reveling in the minimalist glam lounges, flamboyant potions whipped up by king mixologist BRAHM MAUER, gratifying munchies from the likes of Zen-Ya and Sophie Sucrée; and of course seductive dance spins courtesy of master spin himself DJ Yo-C. (As you shall see, ANGELO CADET was particularly spin-spired). The beautiful bottom line: Both benefit events generated sizable funds for the McCord, monies integral to the furtherance of the museum’s mission “to collect, preserve and display the cultural history of Montreal, Quebec and Canada through innovative exhibitions, educational programs, and community outreach for the benefit of current and future generations.” For the complete McCord ‘bulls-eye experience’, turn the page and visit WWW.DIARYOFASOCIALGAL.COM.
HERBY MOREAU, VINCENZO CAVALLO, GIOVANNI FICCA Photography ANGELA CAMPANELLI
THE SHINES
ALESSANDRO BERGA
GIOVANNI FICCA AND JOANNE VRAKAS
MCC OR D AKES MAGIC
SUZANNE SAUVAGE
K MA
GIC
ROLAND LESCURE SUSIE O’REILLY.
RD M O C MC
DAVID CHANO, EMILIE RAINVILLE
GIC A M ES
MCCOR
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THE ANNUAL McCORD BALL THE ANNU L L A B AL Mc RD CORD McCO L A U BAL N AN L TH E H T EA L L NN A B UA D R LM O C c cCO M L RD A NU
E TH L L BA
McCORD BALL TH L A U N N THE A L L A RD B O C Mc L A NU AN
D MA KE S MA A GALLANT GUEST AND CHRISTIANE LANGEVIN
THE ANNUAL McC O R D B A LL TH E A NNU A L M cCO R D BA L L TH E AN
McCORD ANNUAL SUGAR BALL THE YOUNG McCORD ANNUAL SUGAR BALL THE YOUNG McCORD ANNUAL SUGAR BALL THE YOUNG McCORD ANNUAL SUGAR BALL
THE YOUNG McCORD ANNUAL SUGAR BALL THE YOUNG McCORD ANNUAL SUGAR BALL THE YOUNG McCORD ANNUAL SUGAR
EMILIE WAXMAN, BRAHM MAUER, MAYA AZZI
ANGELO CADET
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NICHOLAS NIRO, YASEMIN COMERT
L THE ANNUAL McC ORD BA LL TH E
Photography OWEN EGAN
ANN UAL McC ORD BAL LT HE AN
RD CO Mc AL NU
MA KE
ALL ORD B L McC NUA E AN L TH BAL
MCCOR D
ASHLEY ROSENBERG, ERIC SIMARD, JESSICA SCALERA, ALEX SCHWARZ BROWN
PAULE BOUVIER, PAUL RAYMOND, MICHÈLE PLOURDE, STEVE KELLY, LINDSAY MATTHEWS, RENÉE KESSLER, NORM STEINBERG, JEAN RABY, ERIC RICHER LAFLÈCHE AND LINE RIVARD
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THE ANNUAL McCORD BALL THE ANN UAL
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REBECCA WOLFE, BRAYDEN NELSON
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THE DREAM TEAM STELLA SCALIA, CHANTAL LEBLANC, LINE RIVARD, ROLAND LESCURE, MARIELAURE GUILLARD, CHRISTIANE LANGEVIN, CHARLES FLICKER, CLAIRE LEFAIVRE
ANN U AL M c CO RD
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LL TH L McCORD BA ANNUA
ANNA BROCCOLINI, JOHN BROCCOLINI
ANGELO CADET, TANIA SEMPER, MAYA GORCZYCA
KARL SCHWARZ, NIKOLE JECEN, JEAN PAUL BRUTUS
JOHN ANTHONY LUZIO, NADIA NIRO, ROSEMARY NIRO, FRANCO NIRO
McCORD ANNUAL SUGAR BALL THE YOUNG McCORD ANNUAL SUGAR BALL THE YOUNG McCORD ANNUAL SUGAR BALL THE YOUNG McCORD ANNUAL SUGAR BALL
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O
ff with our heads on the Diary front had we failed to feature the awardwinning Daffodil Ball benefiting the Canadian Cancer Society in this winter edition! Thanks to bionic event producer ALISON SILCOFF and her indefatigable team, the 2012 Daffodil at Windsor Station, chaired by über corps Rio Tinto Alcan CEO JACYNTHE CÔTÉ, Air Canada president/CEO CALIN ROVINESCU and Fednav president and co-CEO PAUL PATHY, was as spectacular as ever, boasting a record-breaking attendance (700 to be exact). The theme (one of the best yet) immersed guests in the most entrancing of wonderlands – a decidedly clever choice given that 2012 marks the 150th anniversary of the first telling of Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll and, as such, has been celebrated the world over by the likes of prestigious ballet companies, the Tate Gallery, even the sexy Sanderson Hotel in London, where Mad Hatter teas have become all the rage in socializing hip. Of particular wonder in our humble opinion were the welcoming “rabbit” who escorted guests into cocktails for their “very important date” with the Daff; the breathtakingly bright dining decor inspired by Tim Burton’s screen adaptation of Alice’s adventures; an exquisite main of lobster and crayfish presented in a “pool of tears” (which, FYI, provoked anything but); and a series of performances by British virtuoso electric violinists LINZI STOPPARD and BEN LEE so spirited that their appeal to royals like her majesty Queen of England was crystal clear. The dazzlingest Daff to date topped off the fantasy with a very real $1.67 million for the Canadian Cancer Society and guests had a ball. (Tweedle-DUH!)
“ESPECIALLY FOR FOODIES”
DARIO PIETRANTONIO
ANTONELLA ARGENTO
ISABELLE HUDON IOHANN MARTIN MITSOU GÉLINAS
SOLANGE DUGAS LUCIEN BOUCHARD TONY LOFFREDA
ANGIE LOFFREDA NORM STEINBERG
JACQUES MAURICE ELAINE ROVINESCU MARC PARENT
SYLVIE LECOURS
RENÉE KESSLER
DOMINIQUE BERTRAND
Photography MARC MURI
LIV E T HE PAR T Y 30 / DIA RY O F A SO CI AL G A L
DIARY IN DAFFODILLAND
CONSTANZA SAN JUAN
Some additional boldface worthies not pictured at left included NATHALIE SCHWARTZ and husband CHARLES DÉCARIE, RAYMOND BACHAND and wife MICHELINE BRAZEAU, SUSAN MCPEAKSIROIS and husband CHARLES SIROIS, FRANCESCO BELLINI and wife MARISA BELLINI, LUCIE BOIVIN and husband PIERRE BOIVIN, the honourable MICHAEL FORTIER and wife MICHELLE SETLAKWE, DENYSE TESSIER and husband ROBERT TESSIER, CHARLES GUAY and wife ISABELLE PAGÉ, CHANTAL CARRIER and husband LOUIS VACHON and LINDA GREENBERG and husband IAN GREENBERG.
JAVIER SAN JUAN OLGA TARASOVA
PAUL PATHY CALIN ROVINESCU BRIAN CYTRYNBAUM CLAUDIA CYTRYNBAUM
JACINTHE CÔTÉ
ANIMATOR
FUN FETE FACTS
MAXIME RÉMILLARD
ALICE
CAROLINE DESLANDES ANIMATOR RICHARD MARTINEAU
PIERRE BOUCHER
KARINE VANASSE
SOPHIE DUROCHER
JEAN-GUY DESJARDINS SUZAN MOREAU
Over 30,000 daffodils were incorporated into the ball’s decor. Playing-card chandeliers were the brainchild of lighting designer NOL VAN GENUCHTEN and DÉCOR & MORE. The Red Queen’s skirt carried an impressive 125 champagne glasses. Over 200 volunteers worked on the ball. Floral designer YVES CHÉNIER used six different themed centrepieces. Luxury raffle packages were worth more than $160,000. Executive chef ALAIN PIGNARD drew inspiration from revered British celebrity chef HESTON BLUMENTHAL. The pastry mastermind behind the much-talked-about hat cake was Le Gateau’s DOMINIQUE MATTE. Gift bags were of the designer variety thanks to YSL and BCBG. The Daff dances on at WWW.DIARYOFASOCIALGAL.COM.
VIRGINIE COOSSA MARIA VARVARIKOS-PEART MARJORIE DUMAS
GUY C. HACHEY
CHRISTIANE HACHEY ALAIN BELLEMARE
JANICE DAVIS KRISTOPHER PINNOW
31 / DIARY O F A SO C IA L G A L
ALISON SILCOFF
LIV E T HE PAR T Y
MORE DAFF DEVOTEES
3 2 / DIARY O F A SO C IA L GA L
LIV E T HE PAR T Y
The Annual ABC Ball for the Montreal Children’s Hospital Foundation
FOR THE LOVE OF KIDS A
s is evident from a visit with Diary (in print or online) and/ or a check-in with any other social zine or website, the majority of benefit events do glitter, glam and often showcase a flock of enviable good fashion (no complaints there). Most importantly, however, they support a variety of causes, organizations, foundations and institutions integral to the overall wellbeing and future of our people and society at large (mushy but true). In this vein, one big-hearted standout on the 2012 spring-summer calendar is more than deserving of a nod herein. It is (drum roll optional): The Annual ABC Ball for the Montreal Children’s Hospital Foundation. While the evening boasted an award-winning theme, stunning de-
cor, the finest food and entertainment (not to mention the support of some of the city’s most boldface worthy and multi-hyphenates), its ultimate agenda – healing and caring for our children – was, without a doubt, the biggest coup. And so, trendy hats off to ABC ball co-chairs KARYN LASSNER and KIRSTEN STERN, who along with a tireless team of organizers and committee members topped off the Best Care for Children Capital Campaign with sizable funds for the construction of the new hospital. As for all that good glitter, glam and fashion? It’s a page away … More ABC fun awaits at WWW.DIARYOFASOCIALGAL.COM.
Find out more about Money for LifeTM at www.moneyforlife.ca or contact your Sun Life Financial advisor today.
Life’s brighter under the sun Š Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, 2012
3 4 / DI ARY O F A SO C IA L G A L LIV E T HE PAR T Y
CATHERINE SHERRIFFS
ALAN AZUELOS
NATHALIE ANDRADE JENNIFER CAMPBELL
GABRIELLA MUSACCHIO NADIA SAPUTO
MYRLA AZUELOS
LYSA LASH
MARK HORNSTEIN
KARYN LASSNER
JILL RAY
KIRSTEN STERN
MATT RAY JONATHAN RAY
SANDRINE RAY
ADAM RAY SARA RAY
INGRID LIEBICH
JASON SCHLEIN JEZEBEL ROCHELEAU
PAMELA SIERRA
NIKO VEILLEUX
NICKY SEYNARD
RYAN HILLIER
NATACHA ENGEL JASON KATZ
STACEY GARTNER DOMINIQUE BERTRAND GILLES COULOMBE ISABELLE HUDON
JACQUES MAURICE
SHARON ALTER
ERROL STERN ELEANOR MASSI DIANA MICELI RHONA STERN
RAYMOND MASSI
Photography YANI ABDALLAH
TONY MICELI
A NEW FAMILY OF WORLD-CLASS PERFORMERS. ON STAGE AT MASERATI QUÉBEC.
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MASERATI GRANTURISMO SPORT BASE MSRP $144,900, NOT INCLUDING GAS GUZZLER TAX, DEALER PREP AND TRANSPORTATION. DEALER PRICE MAY VARY. TAXES, TITLE AND REGISTRATION FEES NOT INCLUDED. ©2012 MASERATI NORTH AMERICA, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. MASERATI AND THE TRIDENT LOGO ARE REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF MASERATI SPA. MASERATI URGES YOU TO OBEY ALL POSTED SPEED LIMITS.
And now kindly rev those reader engines as Diary unveils its first ever F1 Grand Prix spread … vroom vroom.
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JOEY SAPUTO, CARMIE SAPUTO
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EMMANUELLE RONDEA
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CAMILA LOPEZ
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LOUIS LEBLANC, JOEL LEONOFF P.K. SUBBAN, DAVID DESHARNAIS
UV JACQUES VILLENE
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JACQUES PARISIEN JOHANNE CHAMPOUX
Photography RADU DAICONU
“THE BOYS OF
SUMMER”
MARIA SANZ
DR. DAVE, SUZA
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MARIE SAIN
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ABEILLE
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Photography YANI ABDALLAH
ISABELLE RA
CICOT
F1F1BLAZES BLAZESON ON NINA MOURIN, GINO MOURIN, JENNIFER CAMPBELL, SONIA PRICE
ELNAZ SOTOUDEH, THIERRY CARBOU
“WONDER WHEELS WOW”
ILDA DABDA, GINO MOURIN
BATMOBILE BRAVES F1 Masks off to rocking restaurateur GINO MOURIN who saw fit to bring the Batmobile to Montreal for the 2012 F1 Grand Prix. A savvy move indeed as hundreds of F1 and Batman enthusiasts flocked to Hotel Le Crystal’s chic eatery La Coupole to catch a glimpse of the wonder wheels up close and personal. FYI: None were disappointed; Bruce Wayne would have been proud. As for the après-party? Ditto. Photography YANI ABDALLAH
ANTOINETTE
DAVID MORALES
ANTONIO PEREZ, JUAN DOMINGO
SCARLETT JAMES
VALENTINE
THE CODE DECODED
Epic barely begins to describe the parties produced by event architect ELENA CHATZIKONSTANTINOU, founder/CEO of The Code 20 Official F1 after-parties, which she’s thrown from some of the globe’s most glam destinations including Monaco and Shanghai (always to rave reviews and always for super elite patrons like CHARLENE WITTSTOCK, princess of Monaco). And so, expectations ran high for the 2012 Legends of House Official F1 Closing Party at Koko. But of course, the globetrotting professional did not disappoint (shock). Special plasma screens broadcasted the morning races in thrilling 3-D, the display of Montreal artist DANIEL STANFORD’s limited edition F1 paintings added the cool cultural note and the postpaddock VIP lounge created in partnership with top tequila maker JOSE CUERVO, official sponsor of the Sauber Formula 1 Team, was the hottest spot. Et voila, the code decoded. Photography THE CODE 20
GREG LAZAR, JANNA ZITTRER
MARC BELLINI, GLEN BAXTER
JOSEPH TORCHIA, SHANE STILLER, ANTHONY ROMEO, JONATHAN TORCHIA
PAUL ÉRIC POITRAS, MARYSE CHARNEY
JENSON BUTTON
BOSS OF BASHES One of the most refreshing and elegant galas of F1 Grand Prix 2012 was a collab dubbed HUGO BOSS X McLaren. Held in the Science Centre’s scenic Belvedere Room, the stylish soirée honoured the fashion group’s long-standing partnership with the McLaren Formula One Team and enjoyed high profile support from A-1 guests including Fashion Television Network’s GLENN BAXTER, runway impresario HANS KOECHLING, and of course special guest Vodafone McLaren Mercedes team driver JENSON BUTTON. While good drink and apps were all ‘round, a beloved highlight of the night was a lavish auction brimming with biddables like the motorsport overalls created by winners of the “Dress Me For the Finale” design competition, signed by LEWIS HAMILTON and JENSON BUTTON. Photography KAROLINA JEZ
LUXE LIFEGUARD
CINDY LEVY, STÉPHANE DE MEURVILLE
VERONIQUE GONNEVILLE, JESSE PALMER
MOTI MESLATI, BRAHMS YAICHE, BENJAMIN BITTON
CINDY LEVY, MABEL PALOMINO
OUR NEW FAVOURITE BEACH Another Formula 1 Grand Prix perk: You never know what’s around the corner on the partyscape. Accordingly, one of 2012’s most creative offerings – hands down – was the Moët & Chandon Beach in the heart of Peel Paddock in downtown Montreal. Masterminded by event virtuoso Manina Productions’ MABEL PALOMINO, the concrete jungle morphed “magically” into a fantasy beach refuge replete with soft Caribbean-esque sand, perfect palms, lifeguards so model sleek St-Tropez beach patrol is already hot on their case, and of course, an endless dream-stream of Moët Ice Impérial champagne. VIP guests didn’t know where to revel first sending Moët top brass à la Charton Hobbs Group president DUNCAN HOBBS, Moët Hennessy GM Canada STÉPHANE DE MEURVILLE and group marketing pro CINDY LEVY straight over the moon. Yes, the one currently setting into the vivid blue Moët sea. Photography YANI ABDALLAH
NF1F1BLAZES BLAZESON ON CHRISTINA KRCEVINAC
STEPHANE-LUC DESMARCHAIS, JESSE PALMER, JEFFREY FELDMAN
“CEE LO IN THE HOUSE”
PIERRE GIROUARD, JONAS, SONIA PRICE, HEIDI PEKOFSKY, KERRY SCHELLENBERG, ADRIAN CHOW
CEE LO GREEN ON GRAND PRIX SCENE Leave it to hot fashion brand Diesel to blaze the trail on the F1 Grand Prix entertainment front with an exclusive performance at Arena by Grammy-winning music master himself CEE LO GREEN, star of NBC’s hit TV show The Voice. Movers and groovers were everywhere (particularly in the Diesel VIP section) eager to catch the superstar live. Spotted on the Diarycam: rocker JONAS, UFC champ GEORGES SAINT PIERRE, sportscaster JESSE PALMER and many more. Go Diesel. Photography KATE WALLACE
“SPIDER UNVEILED”
PHILIPPE TARDIVEL, UMBERTO BONFA, MARC GENÉ
GIOVANNI CARESTIA, SABRINA D’AMICO
SYDNEY SWEIBEL, MORGAN SWEIBEL, CHELSEA MAYOFF, MITCHELL SWEIBEL
FRANÇOIS DUMONTIER, CHARLÈNE DUMONTIER, BRUNO DESAUTELS, ELIZABETH GLIMENAKI
BEST FERRARI FEST Friday night before Grand Prix should be called Ferrari Friday as Ferrari Québec and Ferrari North America teamed up to host their annual F1 Grand Prix Celebration at minimalist-chic Ferrari Maserati headquarters on Jean Talon West. Over 500 of the city’s highest profile invitees turned out in their GP best to toast the races while also enjoying the very first adrenaline pumping outing of the Ferrari 458 Spider in Montreal. Adding to the magic were special race strategy presentations by Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro Formula One team members MARC GENÉ and PHILIPPE TARDIVEL. And of course, food and drink were first rate thanks to mouthwatering canapés courtesy of the chefs at Ristorante Bice, fresh prosciutto prepared by the lovely and talented ladies of Ham Bar, and Italvine’s fine selection of complementary wines. Yes, Ferrari Québec power-prez UMBERTO BONFA was thrilled with the eve’s success and is already talking Ferrari fab 2013. Photography KATE WALLACE, CARLOS DAVILA
HERBY MOREAU, JASON PRIESTLEY, SUGAR SAMMY
“TOUT LE GANG”
MATT DUSK, JASON PRIESTLEY, DANIEL LAMARRE, WENDY DURWARD.
BIG DAY AT THE (PARTY) RACES For those who think that F1 Grand Prix parties happen only after dark, you are sorely mistaken. In fact, the races are a party in their own right. I learned that first-hand this year as a guest of Infiniti Canada, who welcomed me into their amazing Red Bull Infiniti Paddock Club with warmth and hospitality. Truth be told, I never wanted the day to end. Not only was the paddock a bastion of fun, food, drink and good company (I shared the day with cool peeps like über-crooner MATT DUSK and Beverly Hills 90210 alum/racing enthusiast JASON PRIESTLEY), but our hosts (including Infiniti Canada director WENDY ‘THE COOLEST’ DURWARD) had countless surprises in store. Among them: an exhilarating walk through the pit, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to head to the drivers’ inner lair for up-close-and-personal chats with racing royals like MARK WEBBER and a paddock call by none other than driver SEBASTIEN VETTEL. Be still my racing heart. Photography ANDREW HONE, INFINITI CANADA
NORMAN HÉBERT, GAD BITTON, L. JACQUES MÉNARD, JANET CULLY
VANESSA PERONACE, FRANK PERONACE, RINA PERONACE
CHUCK BLESSED, GAD BITTON, ROB EGLESTON, LINDSAY COVINGTON, ALYSSA BARTHASHY
THE WAY WE ROLL(S) The new Rolls Royce Phantom is not in the current social gal budget. That doesn’t mean Diary webmaster SONIA PRICE and I didn’t enjoy every last high-glam minute of our stop-in at Rolls Royce Motor Cars Quebec’s Grand Prix launch of the latest Phantom Series II. The crowd impressed (many thanks to consummate hosts/owners GAD BITTON and NORMAN HÉBERT), the sushi beckoned, the bars brimmed and of course the Phantom shone. One day … Photography ROXANE PAQUET, ROLLS ROYCE MOTOR CARS QUEBEC. For more F1 GP fab, race to WWW.DIARYOFASOCIALGAL.COM.
High-profile launches were all the rage this springsummer season ...
SEPHORA SWEETENS MAIN STREET
DEBRA MARGLES
MARIE-CHRISTINE MARCHIVES
KATHIA CAMBRON ALEX STERG
EMILIE DUMAS
RENATA DE OLIVEIRA
CHRISTOPHER DE LAPUENTE
DAVID SULITEANU
JENNIFER CAMPBELL
LIV E T HE PAR T Y
VANESSA MURI PATRICIA GAJO
REUBEN ROSS
JENNIFER ABEL
MEAGHAN BENFEITO
CAROL-ANN WARE
“SERVICE WITH A KISS”
FRANÇOIS IMBEAU-DULAC PAMELA WARE
Photography YANI ABDALLAH
PATRICK L’ARISTOCRATE
MARIE SAINT PIERRE
DENIS GAGNON
4 2 / DIARY O F A SO C IA L GA L
The Olympics were the biggest deal this summer, but closer to home, an Olympic beauty moment was upon us when beauty mecca Sephora opened its downtown doors on Ste. Catherine St. And what a beauty-ful event it was. While the discriminating gaggle of by-invite-only guests, including Michael Kors Canada president DEBRA MARGLES, fashion designers DENIS GAGNON, MARIE SAINT-PIERRE and DIMITRI CHRIS, sampled platters of irresistible bon-bons (washed down with flutes of just as irresistible Moët & Chandon), live tunes played pleasingly in the background and every possible beauty product and balm demanded closer scrutiny and sampling. Speaking of sampling, that experience was taken to fresh heights upon the distribution of parting SWAG bags so actionpacked with the best and latest beauty products that I feared smelling salts might be needed for certain guests (including myself). A huge MTL merci to the Sephora team for a rock-star launch, especially top brass CHRISTOPHER DE LAPUENTE, president/CEO World, DAVID SULITEANU, president of the Americas, and MARIE-CHRISTINE MARCHIVES, president of France, all of whom jetted in especially for the happening. Thanks to you, our downtown shopscape is infinitely more beauty-ful.
DIMITRI CHRIS
CAROLINA GALLO RICHER LA FLÈCHE MORGANE LA FLÈCHE
A|X ARMANI EXCHANGE, YOU’RE AOK.
STEVIE B HAMRON TRAVIS TADDEO
“DRAGONETTE ROCKS”
PATRICK DODDY ALESSANDRO BERGA MICHELLE YOUNG
DANIEL D’AUTEUIL HANS KOECHLING BRAM PAPERMAN SONIA PRICE
DAN KURTZ
ANDREW LUTFY JESSICA LUTFY
YSO NOÉMIE MONIC DOMINIQUE LE GALL
BRE BOYCE
CINDY PORTO
KARIM S. LEDUC
TIA SK JENNIFER CAMPBELL
DANIEL QUINTAL
MARC ANTOINE BRÛLÉ BROSSEAU MODEL BETTA LEMME THIERRY HAVITOV
BRUNO H
Spring-summer 2012 was clearly the season for LLITC (luxe launches in the city). One of the highest profile brands to mix things up on morestylish-by-the-minute Ste. Catherine St. was a very welcome A|X Armani Exchange. Well represented by corporate top brass like senior vicepresident and brand director PATRICK DODDY, the iconic label feted the opening of its high tech flagship with an equally impressive soirée. While a minimalist bar backed by supersized screens riveted with references from the spring-summer collection, a discriminating cross-section of fashion insiders including Dynamite/Garage CEO ANDREW LUTFY, designer TRAVIS TADDEO and model mogul KARIM LEDUC made the rounds, kiss-kissing and indulging good schmooze (and even better champagne) before heading stage-side for the much-anticipated performance by hot band Dragonette. A supreme evening for a supreme brand. A|X ARMANI EXCHANGE, you’re A|O|K. Photography SONIA PRICE
KATHERINE LIMA JEAN-CHARLES LIMA
ROSEMARY NIRO
JOHN PARISELLA
FRANK NIRO
MARC BERGEVIN
MICHEL THERRIEN
ESTHER BÉGIN
JULIE POIRIER LIZA FRULLA
DANIEL BOULUD
ANDRÉ MOREAU
ISABELLE HUOT SOPHIE DUROCHER
NADIA CHAMPAGNE ELAINE LEE
MICHEL GIROUARD
JULIE DU PAGE
LOUIS-FRANÇOIS MARCOTTE CARLOS FERREIRA
JACQUES MAURICE
ANDRÉA DU PAGE
DANIEL BOULUD
ANTHONY TORRIANI
JONATHAN TORRIANI LIZA KAUFMAN
ANDREW TORRIANI
LUCIE BOIVIN
GENEVIEVE TORRIANI PIERRE BOIVIN
THE BEST KIND OF MAISON THE BOULUD KIND
My mouth waters just thinking about it: the official summer opening of award-winning international chef DANIEL BOULUD’s hot new eatery in Montreal’s recently remodelled (and drop-dead gorg) Ritz-Carlton hotel. A social gal’s event dream. Not only did the red carpet brim with the city’s who’s who (think Ritz-Carlton Montréal president/GM ANDREW TORRIANI, and new Canadiens GM MARC BERGEVIN and coach MICHEL THERRIEN), but the tasty (and plentiful) hors d’oeuvres and food stations that awaited at the end of the carpet in decidedly fresh and urban interiors exceeded epicurean expectations. Vegas, Miami, L.A., Paris, New York, take that!
HARD TO TOP
Yet another thanks is in order for the retail gods. We now no longer have to make Topshop a must-shop upon border crossing for the up-to-the-minute British retailer has at last brought its sartorial magic to our local stomping (ahem shopping) grounds. Indeed, the energy was palpable this September at the much-anticipated official opening of the in-store Topshop boutiques for men and women at The Bay downtown, where a flurry of the city’s fashion insiders (think big influencers like photo fab SAAD and superstylist CARY TAUBEN) were positively giddy over the chic, eclectic and affordable pieces that had finally come our way. BONNIE BROOKS, you are our hero.
Photography YANI ABDALLAH
MICHEL LEPAGE
KAT CAMPOSARCONE-STUBBS
GENEVIÈVE BOUFFARD
HELOISE LEBLANC
4 3 / DI ARY O F A SO C IA L G A L
NADIA SAPUTO GABRIELLA MUSACCHIO
LIV E T HE PAR T Y
DOMINIQUE BERTRAND
DOMINIC PION RYON
LOLITTA DANDOY JENNIFER CAMPBELL FAFA KHAN
CARY TAUBEN
ROMANE
SAAD KATE GOOD
PACO MEDINA
CORNEILLE
“TOPSHOP LOVELIES”
KEV ADAMS
PEDRAM KARIMI
SOFIA DE MEDEIROS CHLOÉ RANDLE
GIJS LEENDERS
MAKENZIE COSTABILE
Photography MARC MURI
MARJORIE ROUX
LEO ROMAIN
PATRICIA GAJO EMANUELA LOLLI
BEN LEACH
TINASHE MUSARA
The launches launch on at WWW.DIARYOFASOCIALGAL.COM
And one more…
DIARY DOES LAUNCH
DANIELLE MARTIN, PAO LIM
NIKOLE JECEN
FRANK PERONACE, RINA PERONACE
A
VIVIANA RESTREPO, VANESSA VITORINO
ROMY FELICIANI, MARY KYRES, CAROLE KHOURY, CAROLYN TURNER
CINDY LAVERDIÈRE
JOSEPH MORGAN, SHANE BERUBÉ
TOMMY SCHNURMACHER
STUART WEBSTER, CLAIRE WEBSTER
s was crystal clear from the foregoing, spring-summer 2012 was the season for LLITC (luxe launches in the city). And Diary was right in there with the official launch of both the magazine and website at the by-invitation-only VIP opening of Ristorante Bice’s terrace, Il Giardino on Sherbrooke St. W. Despite an initial scare from her weathership, Mother Nature, the evening was everything we hoped it to be: a fiesta of good friends and guests, crazy good food, the luxe-est lounges from Luxe Rentals and an incredibly inspiring upsurge of love in the air. A special thanks to Moët & Chandon, Belvedere Vodka and the
MUCH FUN WAS HAD IN TOTAL ENTERTAINMENT’S PHOTOBOOTH.
ALEXANDRA SCHWARZ
HAINYA WISEMAN
SONIA PRICE, JASON LAMARRE
NANNETTE DE GASPÉ BEAUBIEN, SUZANNE MADY, RAMA SIFRI, JENN CAMPBELL, NINA MOURIN, MATHIEU DE LATOUR
SOPHIE ANNE
TARA GARBARINO, GABI GARBARINO
POTA NANJI
ANNE-MARIE LOSIQUE
TINA LEBER
GEORGES ST-PIERRE, SÉBASTIEN THIBAULT
THE SOCIAL GAL RUSH
LOUIS LEHOUX, MARTINA PRIBYSLAVSKA, YVES LEFEBVRE
brew-masters at DAVIDsTEA for their combined contributions to the Diarytinis and Social Gal Rush specialty drinks, and just as special thanks to Moroccanoil, Cinemas Guzzo, Telus, Enso Yoga, and Lindt for their excellent additions to the SWAG bags. Diary launches on at WWW.DIARYOFASOCIALGAL.COM (the party never ends). Photography VINCENZO D’ALTO, SANDRINE CASTELLAN, ALLEN MCINNIS
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LIV E T HE PAR T Y
BRING ON THE BIRTHDAY For those of you who have not yet made the acquaintance of unstoppable Montreal marrieds CLAUDIA and BRIAN CYTRYNBAUM, know this : When it’s time to party, they go for it. And what better time to pull out all the stops than in honour of Brian the rocking stylepreneur’s milestone b-day, the big Four-O? This July, close to 150 of their closest friends and family members from destinations as distant and exotic as Monaco, Hong Kong and London, including NANNETTE and PHILIPPE DE GASPÉ BAUBIEN, CATHERINE and ADAM TURNER and POTA and CHIKO NANJI made an eager party pilgrimage to their DDG (drop-dead gorgeous) country digs where, thanks to much prep on the part of Claudia, Brian and brand architect JENNIFER ROMAN, the scene for weekend revelry was set. And I mean set. First on the birthday agenda was an afternoon beach party proffering up every type of summer entertainment imaginable from waterskiing, zip lining, fourwheeling and go-karting (for the athletically inclined) to sunbathing and barbequing (for the relaxation-cocktail inclined). Post fun in the sun, it was time to hop into the glam private changing rooms assembled on the lawn – replete with oversized mirrors for once-overs – before heading into the stunning event tent for evening festivities. There, dance stars showcased serious moves (MARIA ESSARIS, you inspire) and food stations laden with delectable sushi, pasta, and seafood whet even the most particular palates. (Personal trainer FRANCISCO DAVILA may or may not have been seen imbibing several calorie-rich carbohydrates ,wink!) Bountiful brunch the next day? Icing on the birthday cake.
SHAWN ZARBATANY, ADAM TURNER
CLAUDIA CYTRYNBAUM, BRIAN CYTRYNBAUM
THE DEETS VENUE: Country house extraordinaire. ATTIRE: Casual-chic. CATERING: Java U. EVENT PLANNING: The Cytrynbaums in collaboration with brand architect Jennifer Roman. LOOT: Personalized beach bags for each guest chock full of the birthday boy’s favourite candy stuff. 48 / DIA RY O F A S O CIAL G A L
TIM GEORGESON, CAIA HAGEL
S É V I R
P S E
GREGOR ANGUS, JULIET ANGUS
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DEBRA MARGLES
NANNETTE DE GASPÉ BEAUBIEN, CATHERINE MELLING TURNER
JENNIFER ROMAN, MARIA ESSARIS, GRACE OBERMAN Photography LAFOREST ET SABOURIN
PIERRE SIMARD, DIANE JUSTER
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WEDDED WOW I don’t know about you, but weddings always get me. And when they’re done in impeccable taste, I’m a goner. Such was the case at the August nuptials of JEAN-PHILIPPE SIMARD (yes, of the SorelSimards), who undoubtedly took wedding standards up a notch (or six) when he wed the love of his life and proverbial girl next door DOROTHÉE LEPRINCE. Among the 120 in attendance were such high-profile guests as DIANE JUSTER, PIERRE NADEAU and Italian noble FABRIZIO BIONDI-MORRA DI BELFORTE, who looked on as the priest of the Saint-Germain of Outremont Church (a longtime personal friend of Jean-Philippe) officiated the moving yet lighthearted ceremony. From cocktails in the Bronze Gallery of the Museum of Fine Arts to the glamorous blacktie reception in the gorgeous Verrière Glass Room across the street and a six-course feast fit for kings and queens, the wedding was an elegant and unforgettable affair. A colossal congratulations and lifetime of happiness to the bride and groom.
JEAN-PHILIPPE SIMARD, DOROTHÉE LEPRINCE AND THEIR LOVING FAMILY.
JEAN-FRANÇOIS LEPRINCE AND DOROTHÉE LEPRINCE
THE DEETS
JEAN-FRANÇOIS LEPRINCE, DOROTHÉE LEPRINCE, ERIC SIMARD, JEAN-PHILIPPE SIMARD
VENUE:The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. DRESS: A handcrafted Alvina Valenta gown. TUX: A rare midnight blue Ermenegildo Zegna couture tuxedo. CATERING: Agnus Dei. WEDDING PLANNING: Geneviève Ouellet. CAKE: A staggering eight-tier masterpiece by Patisserie De Gascogne. MUSIC: Montreal Rhapsody Orchestra 14-piece band.
DIANE SIMARD AND JEAN-PHILIPPE SIMARD
Photography GARY MUNDEN
PIERRE NADEAU, CLARENCE LOTH NADEAU
JEAN-PHILIPPE SIMARD, DOROTHÉE LEPRINCE
For more on these two summer sizzlers (and other perfect parties privés), head to WWW.DIARYOFASOCIALGAL.COM.
4 9 / DIARY O F A SO C IA L GA L
A P S
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os:
ed t a v pri
LIV E T HE PAR T Y
V I R P S
R P S
E I T R
A P ÉS
JEAN-PHILIPPE SIMARD, DOROTHÉE LEPRINCE
S É V I
Finally, what better segue to the fash-focused section LOOK THE PARTY than a celebration of the immediate past Montreal Fashion Week (MFW), presented in collaboration with P&G Beauty & Grooming. Of course we were there. For more galleries, scoop and exclusive video, visit WWW.DIARYOFASOCIALGAL.COM.
DENIS N GAGNO
UNTTLD
DUY
CARY TAUBEN
MARTIN LIM
JOSÉ-MANUEL ST-JACQUES TAMMARA SUZANNE WEXLER
EVE
FRITZ
SIMON BÉLANGER
LOLITTA DANDOY
JANNA ZITTRER ALEXANDRE DESPATIE
MITSOU GÉLINAS
NINA MOURIN DUY
STÉPHANIE-ALEXANDRA TALBOT DAVID TRUDEAU HAMIDI
LAUREN KLASSEN ANASTASIA LOMONOVA MILES GREENBERG LAURA GURANDIANO
MYRIAM AAM
PATRICIA GAJO
DENIS GAGNON
KELLY YEE RICHARD SPEER JANNA ZITTRER
LUDWIG CIUPKA
RUBY BROWN
IA ANASTAOSVA LOMON
HIP AND BONE
TRAVISO TADDE
ANDREW LY
FEMMES FATALES
SORAYA AZZABI
PEDRAIM KARIM
ISABELLE LONG
WILL TURNER
MÉLANIE BRISSON
GENEVIEVE GALLAGHER
JENNIFER NASCHEN
MODEL IN MARIE SAINT PIERRE
LISA KISBER
MARTINE LEMIEUX
DANIELLE MARTIN RACHEL SENDI-MUKASA
PAO LIM SORAYA AZZABI
MARIE PIKE
YSO
MICHEL LEPAGE
EDWINA TAIT
DUBUC PHILIPPFEASHION SHOW STREET
DIARY LOVE
DIARY LOVES FASHION DIARY LOVE
DIARY LOVES FASH JILLIAN ZRIHEN
ISABELLE HUDON
CHRISTOPHER TURNER, YANG-YI GOH
SUZAN MOREAU
PHILIPPE DUBUC
JOHANNE STERNTHAL
KARINE GEOFFRION
ZARA, BRIAN ATWOOD
DUY, YSL
MASSIMO DUTTI, DSQUARED
RALPH LAUREN COUTURE
PHILIPPE DUBUC
BALMAIN, CURRENT ELLIOTT, HERMÈS
BCBG
DOMINIQUE BERTRAND
FRITZ
ELNAZ SOTOUDEH
CLAUDINE BLONDIN BRONFMAN STEPHEN BRONFMAN
LOLITTA DANDOY
LIZA KAUFMAN
SYLVIE CHARRON
RALPH LAUREN, STELLA MCCARTNEY
DENIS GAGNON
EMILIO PUCCI, CHARLOTTE OLYMPIA
ALAÏA, CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN KITON
AGENT PROVOCATEUR, H&M, ALDO
YSL, JIMMY CHOO
RALPH LAUREN COUTURE
Photography: YANI ABDALLAH, SANDRINE CASTELLAN, VINCENZO D’ALTO, SEAN MOLLITT, MARC MURI, SEBASTIEN ROY, GINGA TAKESHIMA, INGRID BAUER
ES FASHION
ES FASHION DIARY LOVES FASHION
HION DIARY LOVES NATHALIE ANDRADE
ADAM RAY
BRITTANY SHILLER
CARY TAUBEN
KARINE VANASSE, MAXIME RÉMILLARD
TARA GARBARINO, GABI GARBARINO
MARIE-LISE ANDRADE
D&G
WITHOUT PREJUDICE LONDON
VINTAGE CHANEL, SERGIO ROSSI
GIVENCHY, HERMÈS, ISABEL MARANT
DUY, ARMANI
LOVE U ALWAYS, CELINE, LOUBOUTIN THEORY, VINCE
MISSONI
LYSA LASH
MARCO MATTIACCI, FARAH MATTIACCI
CLAUDIA BARILA
MARIA ESSARIS
MARIA GUZZO
BRIAN CYTRYNBAUM, CLAUDIA CYTRYNBAUM
JESSICA SCALERA, EMILY DEANE
ROLAND MOURET
BURBERRY, TOD’S FERRARI SANDRO, JIMMY CHOO
BARILA
D&G, GIUSSEPPE ZANOTTI
ASTRI PRUGGER, CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN
ARMANI, VANESSA BRUNO
REBECCA MINKOFF, BCBG MACKAGE, ZARA
Hope LIVE THE PARTY entertained. We move now to the LOOK THE PARTY section, where a smack of good style and beauty pieces await. First, though, a final adieu to last season’s parties is in order, with a lens on spring-summer’s fabulously dressed, tressed, tuxed and luxed. No wonder we’re Canada’s fashion capital.
Celebrating Montreal Lifestyle
FOOD
FASHION
WA N T M O R E M O N T R E A L ? VISIT US ONLINE.
urbanexpressions.ca
FUN
www.winterkate.com
www.hoh1960.com
5 8 / DIARY O F A SO C IA L GA L
LO O K T HE PAR T Y
A few months back, upon exiting the Montreal Gazette where I have the pleasure and privilege of working as social columnist, I made the acquaintance of Torontobased Postmedia president/CEO PAUL GODFREY. Could this get any bigger? Yup. Godfrey is also the father of hot N.Y.-based designer JAY GODFREY (be still my fash-beating heart). Bigger still? You betcha. The biggest boss was kind enough to help clinch the following exclusive on his son for our LOOK THE PARTY section. Go Godfreys:
JAY GODFREY BY JENNIFER CAMPBELL
I
n my world, stiletto-hopping from event to event is as natural as breathing. Rise and shine. Don the journo/editor hat for the duration of the workday and then do what it takes to morph into trending “social gal” for the evening’s events ahead. One of my most formidable allies on this front is a reliable range of dresses. There’s just something so easy about slipping into a comfortable, flattering frock – the ultimate party armour! For years now, one of my favourite go-to designers for just such fashion fixes has been none other than Toronto-born frockstar JAY GODFREY. You see, in addition to boasting enormous talent and skill (he trained at the prestigious Parsons School of Design and apprenticed for the legendary likes of Oscar de la Renta), Godfrey “gets it.” He gets that real women (ahem) love fabulous fashion and trends and are keen on looking stylish and hot but ultimately want to be comfortable, too. He’s also acutely aware of the fact that pocketbooks are not always as bottomless as we would like. (Dresses range from an accessible albeit still exclusive $400-$600.) As for the x-factor, take notice, je ne sais quoi that separates designing mediocres from superstars? Godfrey has that down as well. Why else would his
earliest designs have caught the lasersharp eye of powerhouse Intermix CEO Khajak Keledjian who, upon seeing Godfrey’s wife Dara in an original design, immediately commissioned a collection for his chain? Why else would all the fashion and celebrity mags, websites and blogs parade snap after snap of such Hollywood A-listers as Halle Berry, Eva Longoria, Emma Stone, Eva Mendes, Vanessa Hudgens and Leighton Meester in head-to-toe Godfrey? And why else would hit television show America’s Next Top Model request his presence as a special guest designer to dress contestants for a red carpet event? All this and more – including a mandate to redesign uniforms for W Hotels worldwide – in just the last few years. Clearly, Godfrey gets it and has it going on. So I was particularly pumped when, in our exclusive interview, the designing dynamo who derives inspiration from places as diverse as architecture (he loves Frank Gehry and Santiago Calatrava) and the apple itself (“sometimes it’s just about watching women on the streets of New York”), agreed to weigh in on both the trends for the season and how best to nail a party entrance. Enjoy.
FRO
Graphic black and white says “I’m Chic and I know it,” winks Godfrey.
OCKS Unusual details, including peplums, make the statement this winter, adding flair to holiday dressing.
This fall-winter and into the holiday season, nothing screams “I’m with it” more than some great leather items cut into unexpected shapes and unusual details – peplums, sleeves, dresses and of course, a wide leg trouser. I’m also loving graphic black and white for the holidays. It doesn’t say I’m ready for eggnog, but it does say “I’m chic and I know it.” As for hot hues, Oxblood and Teal are the freshest fall colourways moving into holiday. Finally, solid wardrobe investments this season are soft and draped jackets. They’re a fresh hybrid between a cardigan and constructed blazer, but way sexier than both.
THE ULTIMATE PARTY ENTRANCE Wear support garments like Spanx if you need to, but only if it makes you feel sexy and confident. The sexiest thing on a woman is her confidence. Wear something out of the box. Keep the little black dress at home. The holidays are a time to shine (sequins or embellishment). Be bold and take risks (the odd cutout here or there won’t hurt). If you’re wondering what shoe to wear with bold colour or sequins, go with a nude pump – it always works. Makeup – mascara, eyeliner, bronzer, and something on your lips – is a prerequisite. For more Jay Godfrey, visit WWW.DIARYOFASOCIALGAL.COM and www. jaygodfrey.com. To purchase his designs, head to www.jaygodfrey.com as well as Bergdorf Goodman, Intermix, Neiman Marcus, Saks, Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, Cusp, Tootsie, Holt Renfrew and his new flagship boutique at 810 Washington St., in the heart of New York’s Meatpacking District. Important note to male readers: Godfrey is about to rock your sartorial world too. An ardent fan of Savile Row’s classic tailoring techniques, he’s currently hard at work on a men’s collection, coming soon.
5 9 / DIARY O F A SO C IA L GA L
THE SEASON’S TRENDS PER GODFREY
LO O K T HE PAR T Y
Frockstar designer JAY GODFREY.
60 / DIA RY O F A SO CI AL G A L
LO O K T HE PAR T Y
So, the frocks have been spoken for (thanks J.G.). But now it’s time to pay our respects to an accessory that legions of women the world over can never get enough of: shoes. And who better to spotlight in this well-heeled realm than the ‘Stiletto Sultan’ himself, STUART WEITZMAN? Associate fashion editor NINA MOURIN has the scoop:
A SOLEFUL LIFE BY NINA MOURIN
THE BIO It’s not unusual for sons to follow in their fathers’ footsteps. But the adage takes on a particularly special meaning when your father owns a shoe factory, as in the case of world-renowned footwear designer STUART WEITZMAN, whose dad Seymour was the founder/owner of the successful Mr. Seymour shoe factory in Haverhill, Massachusetts. Although the company was sold to Caressa Inc. 12 years after Stuart and his older brother Warren took up the reigns following their father’s unexpected passing in 1972 and has since undergone expansion and new ownership twice (the Jones Group currently holds a majority stake), Stuart has remained designer and chairman as well as the brand’s guiding force. Blessed with years of hands-on experience and a visceral understanding of what it takes to create the perfect marriage of comfort, luxury and up-tothe-minute style for women of all ages from every corner of the globe, the industry legend and recent recipient of Footwear News’ prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award has taken the brand to unprecedented heights: More than 2 million pairs are sold annually at hip flagships and important retailers across the continents including Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, Nord-
strom, Saks Fifth Avenue, Harrods, Harvey Nichols, Luisa via Roma, Printemps and Holt Renfrew on the home front. While designs are prolific – 400 plus styles in sizes four to 12 in four different widths are created seasonally from the finest materials – it remains challenging to meet the demand for Stuart Weitzman artistry. Everywoman and celebs alike (à la Angelina Jolie, Eva Mendes, Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon, Beyoncé Knowles and Jennifer Lopez) are brand devotees. As are royals including monarch darling Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge. It doesn’t get better than this. … Actually, it does; we have the exclusive interview:
THE INTERVIEW A powerhouse in the industry for decades now, you’ve even been dubbed the “Stiletto Sultan.” How did this grand title come about? I think it started back in 2000. I’ve always been personally involved in making special request shoes for actresses attending the Academy Awards and have enjoyed seeing Kate Winslet, Kim Basinger, Sandra Bullock and Angelina Jolie, among others, looking gorgeous in my designs, especially on the red carpet. Honestly, I got tired of the media only asking about the dress and jewellery
on the Oscar red carpet so I created footwear that demanded a spotlight of its own. You devote considerable time, energy and creativity to the engineering and craftsmanship of every pair. What, in your expert opinion, does it take to make a shoe work? A shoe must function, first and foremost. Which is why comfort and fit are obligatory elements [in my] designs. Of course, without beautiful lines, eye-catching appeal, or anything fanciful that makes you smile, success will not be the result of a comfort-focused shoe. You create shoes that look as good as they feel. Do you share the same philosophy on shoes now as when you first started? Absolutely. I have always designed for the modern woman who wants high fashion yet doesn’t want to sacrifice comfort. Also, I learned from my father that if you continue to produce good quality products, people will come back again and again. They know they can depend on your product to suit their needs and lifestyle. Fantasy and fairy tale are key components of your designs. What were your biggest hits? I’ve had many successes, but the one that stands out is when I experimented with a neutral crochet in our famous ALEX wedge. It has been our top seller for the past few spring collections, as well as a celebrity favourite, especially with Jennifer
Aniston. It’s perfect for summer as its neutral tone goes with any outfit, plus its versatility and comfort make it easy to go from day to night. There’s no question that shoes are an essential accessory and can make or break an outfit. What is the secret to selecting the perfect shoe? Honestly, my answer would depend on the woman, but my overall advice is to never wear a shoe that kills your feet because it will change your personality at the same time. Besides, who wants to be around an angry woman? The holidays are around the corner. What styles top your holiday must-list? The styles from the Stuart Weitzman Young Hollywood Cares collection should make everyone’s must list. Not only are these styles chic and fabulous, but they raise money for Dr. Marsha A. Moses’s pioneering research in ovarian cancer. Brooklyn Decker, Julianne Hough, Nikki Reed, Anna Sophia Robb and Chloë Grace Moretz each co-designed a style. And finally, the million-dollar question: What is it about shoes that makes women crazy? I have been asked often “why do women love shoes?” and the answer is so obvious: What is the first wonderful story that most little girls read about? Yes, something as simple and accessible as a beautiful shoe makes her feel like a princess. Who wouldn’t want to be Cinderella for a night?
LO O K T HE PAR T Y
“CINDERELLA IS PROOF THAT A SHOE CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE.”
61 / DI ARY O F A S O CIAL G A L
Stiletto Sultan STUART WEITZMAN
5050
BLITZ
STILETTO
CAPNAUGHTY
CLOSECALL
DAGGER
KEYBOARD
5050
UPRISE
WALLAPALOOSA
For more on this article, visit WWW.DIARYOFASOCIALGAL.COM. For more Stuart Weitzman and to shop the collections, head to Stuart Weitzman Canada Boutiques and www.stuartweitzman.ca.
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Available on MTM service agreement only. Data is valid for 30 days from activation and cannot be carried over month to month. Your iPad or tablet plan will automatically renew every 30 days unless you change or cancel your plan. Data used while outside of Canada is not applied towards any included monthly amount, but is charged at the applicable roaming rate in the US or abroad. Speed and frequency coverage are dependent on international carrier network. Š 2012 TELUS.
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64 / DI ARY O F A S O CIAL G A L
LO O K T HE PAR T Y
Kendall and Kylie Jenner debut their much-anticipated clothing line.
JENNERATION NEXT Photography NICK SAGLIMBENI
LO O K T HE PAR T Y
It’s no secret that the team and I have a thing for fine fashions and the celebrities who not only wear them (well) but as is the trend, often design them too. Last season, we brought you an exclusive with celebrity designer NICOLE RICHIE. This go round, talented new Diary contributor (and really good dresser) ASHLEY KARP brings you the fruits of her one-on-one with teen reality stars cum models cum authors cum spokeswomen cum fashion designers cum future leaders of the free world KYLIE and KENDALL JENNER. The future is looking bright:
BY ASHLEY KARP
“THE MOST AMAZING THING IS THAT WHEN YOU’RE KNOWN, YOU CAN GIVE TO CHARITY AND YOU CAN MAKE A HUGE DIFFERENCE ON THINGS THAT MATTER.”
THE INTERVIEW Who are some of your favourite designers? Kendall & Kylie: Chanel, Givenchy, Dior and Dolce & Gabbana. Describe your go-to, never-fails party outfit. Kendall & Kylie: Tights, boots, a dress and a cute jacket. Or even a skirt with a nice sweater.
several times over, in addition to gracing such coveted magazine covers as TeenVogue and Seventeen alongside her sister. The girls are also the latest in a long string of celebs to try their hand at writing, with their co-authored sciencefiction novel to see print sometime next year. In case that’s not enough (it never is), they are now following in the stillettoed footsteps of their fashion mogul sisters, Kim, Kourtney and Khloé with the upcoming launch of their much-anticipated debut clothing line, exclusive to PacSun (online and in stores February 2013). Most recently, in honour of Kendall’s 17th birthday, the family transformed the backyard of their palatial Calabasas home into a winter wonderland, replete with an ice skating rink and artificial snow (though surely our city could have graciously offered up some surplus flurries and frost). On top of it all, the rumour mill continues to churn out speculation about a possible spinoff of their very own. Kendall and Kylie Take the World, perhaps? Welcome to the next Jenneration.
have different opinions because a lot of people only like Kendall’s style or only like my style; it gives people more options. What songs or artists are guaranteed to get you in the party mood? Kylie: The Weeknd and Lana Del Rey’s new album. Kendall: Rihanna.
Who do you look to for fashion inspiration?
How do you escape the chaos of publicity and unwind?
Kylie: The Olsen twins, Miley Cyrus.
Kendall: Our friends are a big part of keeping us grounded and making us feel normal and like we don’t have to worry about anything.
Kendall: Blake Lively, my sisters. How do your styles differ from one another? Kylie: Unless Kendall’s getting ready for something, she’ll go out in sweats and a sweatshirt. I take more time to get ready, and I care more. What are your must-haves this season? Kendall & Kylie: Leather pants, patterned tights and cute beanies. What was it like designing a clothing line together? Kylie: I love everything in the line, we both do, but I had a lot of stuff that I wanted in the line and Kendall had a lot that she loved and insisted upon. I think that it’s cool to
What is the best perk of celebrity life? Kendall & Kylie: We get amazing opportunities to do things like interview people at Twilight and Hunger Games premieres. The most amazing thing is that when you’re known, you can give to charity and you can make a huge difference on things that matter. You have to take advantage of that if you’re in the spotlight. For more on this article, visit DIARYOFASOCIALGAL.COM. For more on the Jenner sisters and their new line, visit www.kendallandkylie.com and www.pacsun.com.
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t goes without saying that popular society has a cultural affinity for all things Kardashian (or rather, Jennerdashian). Part media luminaries, part commercial alchemists, the fused Jenner-Kardashian clan has become something of a phenomenon. Indeed, in our five-year tenure as flies on the walls of their California mega mansions – privy to their major life happenings, intimate moments and innermost thoughts – they have drawn us in and, perhaps unwittingly, won our hearts. For those of you not in the know (all three of you), Keeping up with the Kardashians (and it’s associated spinoffs) centres on the glamorous lives of the first family of reality TV, as they navigate the trials and tribulations that arise from balancing celebrity and family life. Their show is the sexier, flashier and glitzier Brady Bunch for the modern age, only unscripted. Of course, Mike and Carol Brady never had children together in their time onair, but if they had, it’s a safe bet their fictional offspring would be a far cry from the irresistible brood’s youngest members: KENDALL and KYLIE. Impossibly well adjusted and unexpectedly wise beyond even their combined years, statuesque Kendall, 17, and darling Kylie, 15, are proving that success runs in the family. “We’re really excited about the future,” chime the girls, who, along with their chocolate locks, have also inherited the Jennerdashian ambition and unflagging work ethic that has collectively earned them a hefty fortune. Their verdant youth notwithstanding, Kendall and Kylie have carved out impressive résumés that include stints as models, red carpet hosts, fashion contributors for Seventeen and spokeswomen for OPI Nicole Nailpolish and Venus Gillette Razors. On the modelling front, Kendall has scored major gigs with Forever 21, Luca Couture, Nordstrom, and Sherri Hill since signing with Wilhelmina Models at age 14. Kylie, too, has parlayed her fame into a career as a model, having walked the runways of New York Fashion Week
SUPERSARTORIALS FOR THIS SEASON’S PARTIES
PUTTIN’ ON THE RITZ Photography SAAD VISION Styling CARY TAUBEN
PARTY IS WHERE THE HEARTH IS MIYANDA: Gown PAVONI, diamond bracelet and necklace KWIAT (Birks), 18K white gold and diamond knot ring BIRKS, heels STUART WEITZMAN. BRITTANY: Gown PAVONI, diamond and morganite drop earrings in 18K white gold VIANNA (Birks), 18K white gold and diamond ring DI MODOLO (Birks). ANNIE: Gown PAVONI, 18K white gold and diamond bracelet KWIAT (Birks).
BOY TALK DANIEL B.: Shirt, bowtie ARMANI (Harry Rosen), pants TOM FORD (Harry Rosen). FELIX: Shirt LANVIN (Duo), bowtie YVES SAINT LAURENT (Duo), tuxedo LANVIN (Ssense), BAUME & MERCIER Classima Mens Watch with white dial and alligator black leather bracelet (Bijouterie Italienne).
GIRL TALK RAN: Gown THEIA (Jenna les collections, 3rd floor La Maison Ogilvy), ring, bracelet and earrings KENNETH JAY LANE (Holt Renfrew), fur NATURAL FURS. CHARLIE: Gown WAYNE CLARKE (Holt Renfrew), fur TAVAN & MITTO, 18K white gold earrings and ring POMELLATO (Bijouterie Italienne). Table setting HAINYA WISEMAN. Floral design JEAN-PASCAL LEMIRE (Bouquet Fleuriste). Champagne VEUVE CLICQUOT.
OVAL THE TOP BRITTANY: Gown TAVAN & MITTO, 18K yellow gold and South Sea Pearl ring, 18K yellow gold diamond and South Sea Pearl earrings, 18K yellow gold platinum and diamond vine bracelet ALL GLORIA BASS. MIYANDA: Gown MARCHESA (Holt Renfrew), 18K white gold South Sea Pearl and diamond ring, double strand silver blue Baroque South Sea Pearl 18K white gold blue and white diamond necklace, platinum Baroque South Sea Pearl diamond and aquamarine earrings, ALL GLORIA BASS. ANNIE: Gown MARCHESA (Holt Renfrew), South Sea Pearl 18K yellow gold platinum and fancy diamond necklace, 18K yellow gold and diamond stack rings, ALL GLORIA BASS.
BREAK BETWEEN DANCES CHARLIE: Gown PAVONI, shoes GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI (Browns). DANIEL B.: Tuxedo LANVIN (Ssense), shirt SORIALTO, bowtie DUO, shoes WAXMAN (Waxman).
PREP TIME CHARLIE: Rings ANZIE, earrings ERIKCSON BEAMON (TNT Montreal), necklace BCBG. MIYANDA: Gown TOM FORD (Holt Renfrew), earrings ALEXIS BITTAR (TNT Montreal), pearl bracelet KENNETH J. LANE (The Bay), shoes STUART WEITZMAN. Bath bubbles ACQUA DI PARMA.
STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN RAN: Gown WAYNE CLARKE (La Maison Ogilvy), white feathered hairpiece with pearl trim BEAU BELLE COUTURE (La Maison Ogilvy), rings and earrings ERIKCSON BEAMON (TNT Montreal), Hermès Collier de Chien cuff HERMES. ANNIE: Gown RUSH COUTURE, crystal hairpin with floral motif BEAU BELLE COUTURE (La Maison Ogilvy), earrings SWAROVSKI, white Baroque pearl necklace with 18K white gold clasp BIJOUTERIE ITALIENNE PRIVATE LABEL.
PERFECTLY PATIO BRANDON: Shirt, bowtie, pants, tux, cummerbund WAXMAN (Waxman). LAUREN: Shirt, bowtie, pants, tux, cummerbund WAXMAN (Waxman), black sequined bowtie BEAU BELLE COUTURE (Mimi & Coco). CHARLIE: Fur NATURAL FURS, dress ALAIA (Holt Renfrew), shoes MICHAEL KORS, South Sea pearl earrings and South Sea single strand pearl necklace BIRKS. FELIX: Shirt, tux and bowtie WAXMAN (Waxman), TAG HEUER CARRERA Automatic Steel Watch, chronograph with black alligator bracelet (Bijouterie Italienne). MIYANDA: Blazer and pants C.O. (Ssense), turtleneck PINK TARTAN,100in Freshwater pearl necklace BIRKS, gloves VINTAGE (The Little Shop). VINCE: Shirt, tux and bowtie WAXMAN (Waxman). BRITTANY: Dress CHLOÉ (Ssense), hat VINTAGE (The Little Shop), diamond and pearl drop earrings BIRKS VINTAGE COLLECTION, pearl rings with diamonds BIRKS.
PUTTIN’ ON THE GLITZ MIYANDA: Gown THEIA (Jenna les collections, 3rd floor La Maison Ogilvy), earrings MARNI (Ssense.com), bracelet POGI (Bleue Comme Le Ciel). BRITTANY: Gown, clutch, bracelet and cocktail ring, ALL MICHAEL KORS, 18K yellow gold earrings GUCCI (Bijouterie Italienne).
À LA PROCHAINE RITZ-CARLTON MONTRÉAL FELIX: Shirt SARAOLTO, bowtie YVES SAINT LAURENT (Michel Brisson), shoes WAXMAN (Waxman), jacket and pants WAXMAN COLLECTION (Waxman). BRITTANY: Suit ESCADA, Pearls VINTAGE CHANEL (Johanne Sternthal), shoes GIUESSEPE ZANOTTI (Browns). PRESLEY: Fur (HIS OWN!) Photography first assistant BARRIE MACLEOD. Second assistant MUSTAFA UNSAL. Third assistant ALEXANDRA SHAFTER. Styling assistant MAXINE IANNUCCELLI. Hair RAFAEL ESTRELLA DUNN (Dulcedo). Products TRESEMMÉ. Assistant FLORIAN BONNEMAISON. Makeup JESSICA LABLANCHE (Folio). Assistant LILLY SMITH (Folio). All models DULCEDO MODEL MANAGEMENT. Retouching DAVID MORAN. Special thanks to ANDREW TORRIANI, GUILLAUME BENEZECH, DANIELLE POUDRETTE and la belle NATALIE CHEPURNIY, of the Ritz-Carleton Montréal and BARRIE MACLEOD STUDIO. FYI: There’s more behind-the-scenes and exclusive video at
WWW.DIARYOFASOCIALGAL.COM.
And before we bid fashion farewell, a last ode to winter partywear is in order thanks to SONIA’S SELECTS and CONNOISSEUR JAY. Check out their picks every Friday on WWW. DIARYOFASOCIALGAL.COM.
Gala jacket HELMUT (www.lagarconne.com)
Nailhead dress REBECCA TAYLOR
LO O K T HE PAR T Y
Shoes GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI (Browns)
Claire cat eye sunglasses ILLESTEVA (TNT Montreal)
Keepme clutch STUART WEITZMAN
Tribtoo pumps YVES SAINT LAURENT (www.ssense.com)
Leather pants DIESEL
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Fur key fob MICHAEL KORS
Silver-plated onyx cufflinks LANVIN (www.mrporter.com)
Slim Fit ‘Jacco US’ Shirt BOSS BLACK (www.hugoboss.com)
Bomber jacket PAUL SMITH (www.mrporter.com)
Losheka leather jacket DIESEL
Henry sunglasses TOM FORD (La Maison Ogilvy)
Max Cash jeans ACNE (www.lagarconne.com)
Patent leather sneakers GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI (www.ssense.com)
Gloves UGGS Australia (La Maison Ogilvy)
Shoes CESARE PACIOTTI (Browns)
MONTRÉAL
TORONTO
CALGARY
VANCOUVER
STUARTWEITZMAN.CA
LO O K T HE PAR T Y 8 2 / DI ARY O F A SO C IA L G A L
TRESSING UP WITH MOROCCANOIL MANE MAN ANTONIO CORRAL CALERO BY JENNIFER CAMPBELL
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f you’re wondering about this season’s coifs (and all else hair), wonder no more. At an exclusive shoot for this edition, ANTONIO CORRAL CALERO, artistic director for überbrand MOROCCANOIL told me, well, everything (in a Spanish-tinged accent so charming that I wanted the sit-down to last forever). As for the goods, Antonio delivered in spades. Of course he did. Not only was the tress master coming off 28 shows for New York Fashion Week – to which brand devotees like Madonna, Salma Hayek, Penelope Cruz and Lady Gaga were tuned right in – but he’s also been an instrumental force in growing the Montreal-based brand from a single product (their now legendary Original Treatment)
to a global industry leader with a full range of products, currently available in 40 countries worldwide. Heck, if he doesn’t know hair, who does? On this season’s hottest trends (for her): It’s a lot of bedhead. A lot of volume! You know, back in the day, in the 40’s and 50’s when Brigitte Bardot, Gina Lollobrigida had that magic and softness about their hair. It looks sleptin, not too perfect nor too made up, but you can see the overall quality, shape and movement of the hair. On this season’s hottest trends (for him): For men I’ve seen a lot more sleek and slicked-back styles. Very fifties-like. The haircuts are very clean, very proper, very sharp, created with a lot of product. The effect is very shiny, glossy and lacquer-like.
WHILE UPDOS ARE A GREAT HOLIDAY ALTERNATIVE, THE MODERN TAKE IS NATURAL – NEVER TOO DONE. RACHEL C.: Dress BLUMARINE (Holt Renfrew).
DREAMY WAVES WITH FLUIDITY AND MOVEMENT HARK BACK TO AN AGE WHEN LEGENDS LIKE BARDOT RULED THE SCREEN.
RACHEL C. and FLORENCE H.: Both dresses DUY.
On holiday hair (for her): It’s updos that look very natural with lots of texture – nothing too sleek so there’s not too much hairspray involved. Nothing too done! It’s that little bun in the back or a little chignon higher up, and they have to have the little flyaways and those little hairs that look “misplaced” somehow. Braids are big too: We first saw them back in the summer and this winter, they’re thicker and a lot messier and textured. On hair love in general: I always say the foundation is your key to the best styles. A good shampoo, a good conditioner, and a good mask are the three things that will keep your hair healthy and manageable, and allow you to create anything that you want. It’s about prepping and making the hair strong and healthy enough to withstand any kind of styling. At Moroccanoil, we teach our stylists in the salon to use the Original Treatment with the color process to boost luminosity. At home, you can use the same product to prep your hair after shampooing and conditioning and before heat styling. This will help protect the hair and avoid split ends. Shampoo your hair twice a week (people who don’t have oily hair can even get away with once) and use a mask weekly. Avoid using too many heat-styling tools such as the curling iron or flatiron. If you do so, again, use Moroccanoil Treatment to prep hair! On hair as the ultimate accessory: Your hair has to be the best accessory. So no matter the way you put it – up or down – try to keep it fun. Have a good time with it. That’s what it’s all about. For the complete interview (with every hair-raising, hair-fabu detail) head to DIARYOFASOCIALGAL.COM. For more MOROCCANOIL, head to Moroccanoil.com.
Photography NEIL MOTA (Agence L’Éloi). Styling ISABELLE LONG (Agence L’Éloi). Hair ANTONIO CORRAL CALERO (MOROCCANOIL). Assistant LAURIE DERAPS. Makeup NICO GP (Agence L’Éloi). Models RACHEL C., FLORENCE H. (Next Models Canada).
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BIG HAIR WITH AMPLE VOLUME IS THE WAY TO GO THIS SEASON.
LO O K T HE PAR T Y
FLORENCE H.: Pants HELMER (Helmer Boutique and Gallery), earrings VINTAGE.
© 2012 GLORIA BASS DESIGN INC
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G re e n e
Av e ,
We s t m o u n t
G L O R I A B A S S D E S I G N . C O M
Make-up: Teint Radiance N°1, Radiant Touch N°2, Mascara Volume Effet Faux Cils Shocking N°1, Eyeliner Effet Faux Cils N°1, Dessin du Regard N°1, Rouge Pur Couture Vernis à Lèvres N°9, La Laque N°1.
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It’s the winter white edition and we’d be wholly remiss without an apropos beauty feature. Enter beauty maestro/journo/shopper-in-chief JANNA ZITTRER with a panoply of seasonal pickme-ups we simply cannot live without:
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LO O K T HE PAR T Y
CREAM OF THE CROP
THE BRIGHT STUFF SAY “SO LONG!” TO WEATHERBEATEN FEATURES AND “HELLO” TO RADIANCE-PACKED PRODUCTS THAT’LL GIVE EVEN THE WEARIEST OF WINTER WARRIORS A BOOST
IN THE BUFF
Bikini season be damned! Be beachready — even in the dead of winter — with DERMAGLOW GLYCOLIC BODY CREAM, which sloughs off unsightly scales for ultra-smooth skin from tips to toes. $34 at Jean Coutu.
Is the cold weather taking its toll on your complexion? Look on the bright side with LA PRAIRIE WHITE CAVIAR ILLUMINATING CREAM. It’s chock full of glow-getting ingredients, such as white honey and golden caviar extract, to lift and lighten sallow-looking skin. $570 at Holt Renfrew.
EYE SPY
Your eyes may be the window to the soul, but ringed with discolouration and crows feet, they can also be the window to your age. Bring the curtain down on bags and blue circles with VELD’S EYE MAGIC, a hydrating treatment and illuminating concealer in one with a built-in brush for brighter eyes in one easy sweep. $59 at Jean-Coutu and nataboutique.com.
ON THE SPOT
Reverse the signs of breakouts and sun damage with KIEHL’S PHOTOAGE HIGH-POTENCY SPOT TREATMENT, a powerful colour corrector that tackles hyperpigmentation over time both on and below the skin’s surface. You may not feel even keel after yet another night of cocktails, but at least your skin will look it! $60 at Kiehl’s.
SMILE SAVER A white smile is always in fashion no matter the season, and the GLO BRILLIANT PERSONAL TEETH WHITENING DEVICE is the hardest-working at-home gadget you can get your shearling-gloved hands on. Just a few eight-minute sessions are all you need to make your pearly whites up to eight shades brighter, giving you plenty to smile pretty about. $239 at Sephora.
SCHWARZ Chirurgie Plastique
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GASTON SCHWARZ, MD, FRCS(C), FACS KARL SCHWARZ, MD, MSc, FRCS(C) WWW.SCHWARZPLASTICSURGERY.COM WWW.SCHWARZPLASTICSURGERY.COM
1506 DR. PENFIELD, MONTRÉAL, QUEBEC, H3G 1B9 TEL: +1 514.932.8200 / INFO@SCHWARZPLASTICSURGERY.COM
LO O K T HE PAR T Y
There’s no question that party-beat attire, particularly the type I’m drawn to – body skimming gowns, LBDs and cool girl tuxes – are far more figure flattering when a fair amount of attention is paid to the bod and its maintenance. (Not to mention all those more important motivators for staying in shape, like good health, longevity and a surplus of nature’s Prozac: endorphins.) And so, I was particularly tickled when trend-savvy contributing editor SUZANNE WEXLER suggested an exploration of some of the city’s hottest workouts. What follows are her honest, funny and reliable findings, sure to make you smile and, even better, break a sweat:
GO HARD OR GO OM?
Stretching while strengthening is an ideal winter workout at the gorgeous new studio Ensõ Yoga on Peel St. Photography KELLY-ANNE BONIEUX
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BY SUZANNE WEXLER
C
hoosing a winter exercise regime, especially pre-holidays, is always a fine balance of imagining vivid goals to a buffer bod, while coming to terms with the grips of reality (i.e. laziness). Having grown tired of my old routine, plus admittedly a pinch lazy (just a pinch!), I decided to test out a few of the latest workout trends to see what would stick. Which did I choose? Read on to find out.
HOT YOGA
Chanting at a gym is just not my thing. Maybe it’s the wall-sized mirror and the scantily clad people, but many yoga classes strike me as a group vanity project, not a spiritual exercise. That being said, stretching while strengthening is the kinder, gentler route to physical fitness, and doing so in a hot toasty room at the new gorgeous studio Ensõ founded by ANDRÉ RILEY and EMILY A. WEBSTER seemed like the ideal winter workout scenario. Verdict: After my Hot Flow class in a room set between 38- and 39.5-degrees Celsius, I was dripping in sweat, and felt pleasantly exercised but not totally exhausted. It was as if my cardiovascular system had been given an intense workout, while my muscles experienced a moderate one. At Ensõ, going hard and going om are not mutually exclusive concepts. Bonus: no chanting – well, in the class I took anyway. Plus studio owners plan to give 50 per cent of profits to charity. Tip: Suck on a water hose when you’re done and be extra careful not to overextend your muscles. Consult a doctor if you’re even the slightest bit concerned about pre-existing conditions.
FUNCTIONAL TRAINING
Studio Athletica specializes in functional training, a series of exercises based on physical therapy and rehabilitation. This may involve doing pulleys to correct poor posture, or building up core muscles on a BOSU ball. Sounds innocent, but after my first class with incredibly handsome studio owner FRANCISCO (an added perk), I’d whipped ropes, climbed the “Jacob’s Ladder,” and done “Superman” poses, collapsing after each. Supposedly these were all “natural movements” that my body could easily handle, and ones that would ultimately allow my natural strengths to maximize their potential. It’s no wonder Francisco also uses functional training to help athletes build toward peak performance. Verdict: A couple of days later, my muscles felt strong and awakened, but they weren’t sore at all. Next thing I knew, I was back for Francisco’s famous two- to four-person group classes, and, well, let’s just say I felt slightly more sore the next day. But the classes were indeed “addictive,” which is how one ripped mommy described them. Another fellow had lost 30 pounds in six weeks. Tip: It may be daunting, but just get in the car and go. Francisco will be sure to consider your fitness level and past medical history while weaving his intense fitness magic.
to the new studio Cadence Cycle, Montreal’s answer to NYC’s SoulCycle (a sort of Jazzercise on wheels that has inspired legions of real – and celeb – devotees). On the home front, Studio owner YARON SPITZER does his classes to themed music lists, such as ‘Divas’ with hits by Janet, Beyoncé, and Madonna, which he announces via email. When I arrived, I donned specialty spin shoes, got clipped in, and rocked and rolled to tunes by Flo Rida, among others. Verdict: I think I burned about 1,000 calories, though the website states that individuals can burn up to a potential 800. I can’t say I managed to master all Spitzer’s moves — cycling at top speed while standing up resulted in a few mechanical errors on my knees. But I had a whirl, and so did my butt. Tip: Classes are all about keeping a rhythm, so best to be in sync with the set list. The Verdict of verdicts? I loved ‘em all for different reasons (c’mon, you sort of knew I would say that, no?). Yoga had stretch, functional training had sculpt, and rhythmic cycling made my heart go pitter-patter. Now all I have to do is keep going to any of them twice or three times a week — say, two hot yoga classes and one cadence cycle one week, followed by two functional training sessions the next — and I’ll be one fit mighty mouse.
THE BUFF CORNER STUDIO ENSÕ 1470 Peel St., Tower B, Suite 100, Montreal 514-419-9642 www.ensoyoga.ca STUDIO ATHLETICA 233 Dunbar Ave., Suite 201, Mount Royal 514-315-2211 www.athleticastudio.com CADENCE CYCLE 2585 Bates Rd., Montreal 514-733-8111 www.cadence-cycle.com
RHYTHMIC WHEELS
Can you dance on a bike? I can dance almost anywhere and practically on anything, but I happen to hate biking (I know, not a popular thing to say since the Bixi rolled into town). Yet I wouldn’t let my Debbie Downer attitude stop me from going State-of-the-art wheels, themed playlists and a high calorie burn await at Montreal’s Cadence Cycle. Photography MARTIN BANOON PHOTOGRAPHY
Studio Athletica trainers like owner FRANCISCO specialize in functional training, a series of highly effective exercises based on physical therapy and rehabilitation. Photography TIM GEORGESON
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TABLE TALK:
LOOKING THROUGH CRYSTAL GLASSES While this is a special winter edition, there’s no denying that it launches just prior to the holidays. And so, how could we not address dressing the perfect holiday table in our MAKE THE PARTY section? You’re right. We couldn’t – not address it, that is. For your table-beautifying bliss, the seasoned decoristas at MARIE DUMAS share their best setting tips with Diary contributing editor SUZANNE WEXLER. Get reading; your most spectacular holiday table is 755 words away. BY SUZANNE WEXLER
S
ome people interpret modern as a neon beam (that would be me). Others view modern as dishwasher-safe crystal glasses and mirrored art deco trays. The latter sensibility is the one shared by FRANCINE DUMAS and her two daughters, MARIE-JOSÉE (a.k.a. MARIE) and STÉPHANIE DUMAS, owners of beloved decor boutique Marie Dumas on Greene Ave. They are immersed in a world of Vera Wang fine bone china plates, and their opinions on what constitutes elegant design are as impeccably coordinated as their respective ivory homes. “We have the same picture frames, but placed in different rooms of our houses. We have the same chandeliers,” said youngest daughter Stéphanie, listing items that were once sold at their boutique. The Dumas trio also unanimously refer to Martha Stewart as “too country,” looking instead to such posh designers as florist/event architect Preston Bailey and furniture designer Barbara Barry for inspiration.
For this special winter edition of Diary, the tight-knit team was asked to create an alluring non-denominational holiday table setting so that readers could then easily envision themselves personalizing it. Deconstructed, the table revealed the essentials of Dumas’s design philosophy. First, the rules: The table’s selected theme was crystal, because the Dumas women insist that all tables should have a clear theme. “[Crystal] is a good base, all seasons, and keeps things monochrome and elegant,” said Marie, the eldest daughter, after whom the store was named 19 years ago, when she opened the boutique with her mother. (Stéphanie was finishing university.) The theme was played up with crystal candlesticks, place-card holders and napkin rings. Diamond-cut glass chargers by Nachtmann and woven scalloped placemats added shimmer. As per rules about place settings, Marie insisted that each seat should be set up identical to the one next to
it – no alternating colours or china patterns – while Stéphanie was a stickler for symmetry, insisting both sides of the table should be perfect reflections of each other. Ivory table linens by Le Jacquard Français fit 10 to 12 inches on each end. Precise dimensions ensure that the fabric doesn’t hang onto laps and create accidents when a guest stands up. The silk verbena floral arrangements were also set to a customary seated chin-height. Second, what to avoid: According to the Dumas ladies, old-fashioned are the use of tchotchkes, along with piling onto the table every last piece of silver and crystal from your grandmother. And if it wasn’t entirely obvious: Antique china plates should remain on the wall. “I’m a firm believer in building a table from old and new – that’s less stuffy,” Marie said. Third, incorporate modern twists: Again, for the Dumas women, dishwasher-safe is a very au courant concept. The rule applied to all pieces dis-
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Marie-Josée wears her own clothes, a 3-tiered diamond ring, South Sea Pearl earrings mounted on 18K white gold, and her own bracelets. Francine wears her own clothes, an 18K white gold ring with South Sea Pearl, 18K white gold Chimento earrings and 18K rose gold bangle. Stephanie wears her own clothes, 18K white and rose gold Chimento earrings with diamonds, 18K white gold Chimento bracelet, and an oval pearl pendant set in 18K white gold with diamonds. All jewellery (except Marie-Josée’s bracelets) BIJOUTERIE ITALIENNE.
Marie-Josée, Francine and Stéphanie Dumas work their magic. Photography MATTHEW LYNN. Styling TATIANA CINQUINO. Hair and makeup MARIE DESLONGCHAMPS.
played, including the faux-ivory and stainless steel cutlery, which were also suitable for everyday use. Other updates included mixing pieces from different collections to avoid being matchy-matchy (another relative concept for this trio, since everything they touch is always impeccably coordinated). Ivory Vera Wang fine bone china platinum-rimmed lace plates, called Vera Lace, were paired with ivory fine bone china roseembossed salad plates by dress designer Marchesa, part of the couture collection for Lenox. A crystal dessert cup was added to the centre, which brought elevation and dimension, along with the essential theme, to each place setting. Marie insisted a “high and low” mix of price points also suit modern elegant entertainers. Wow-factor pieces, such as the 1920s-style mirrored Art Deco tray at $309.99, could easily be paired with lesser-priced items, such as small crystal jewelled knives at $5.49 each.
Finally, a medium-sized glass placed at each setting, intended for either white or red wine, also helped to declutter, and therefore update, the traditional table. Fourth, personalize it: Marie says buffet settings are popular nowadays, especially for parties greater than 10. A separate table with a beverage dispenser, decanters, dinnerware caddies, and service pieces is key. Playing with details such as organza napkin covers, place mats, and jewelled napkin rings are also simple ways to shake things up. For Christmas settings, the women suggest “gold scalloped placemats, a lot of mercury glass, branches, and balls – plus there need to be crackers on the tables,” said an enthusiastic Stéphanie. The Dumas women will surely be going all out for the holidays. To get a sneak peek at their latest seasonal theme, a table is always on display at Marie Dumas, 1212 Greene Ave., Westmount, 514-932-9977. Happy table talk!
TOP: Ivory Vera Wang fine bone china platinumrimmed lace plates, called Vera Lace, are paired with ivory fine bone china rose-embossed salad plates by dress designer Marchesa, part of the couture collection for Lenox. LEFT: Chin-height silk verbena floral arrangements are beautiful and practical.
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So you’ve set the table thanks to les formidables dames Dumas, and now, in this ‘take action’ place we call MAKE THE PARTY, you’re itching for some more insider scoop on besting your next bash. No problem. Diary contributor OLIVIA COLLETTE has some rather interesting insight thanks to an exclusive with outta the box celebrity chef DAVID ADJEY.
DAVID ADJEY DISHES BY OLIVIA COLLETTE
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hef David Adjey is a naturalborn icebreaker. On Food Network’s Restaurant Makeover or The Opener, he spared no bluntness towards rookie chefs in need of a firm tongue-lashing. When hosting any function, Adjey likes to round up folks who probably shouldn’t be stuck in a room together … just to see what happens. “If you force people together, they’ll do things they don’t normally do. The wild ones will be a little bit more chilled; the chilled will be a little bit more wild,” he reveals. If it’s wintertime, Adjey will likely spice up a party with a sizzling tropical theme, if only for the possibility that people might shed a layer of, er, inhibition. “I’ll throw people off-kilter, flip up the heat to 40 so everyone’s in bikinis,” he says. “A great Christmas theme is ‘New Orleans Mardi Gras.’ Make some gumbo. Make some po’ boys. And once everyone’s had enough beer and bourbon, get the beads out… because everyone knows how to get beads.” That free-spirited, unconventional image certainly matches Adjey’s rocker edge. Whether he’s sporting a leather jacket or a tailored suit, a first glance at his towering, Viking-like frame wouldn’t suggest that he surrounds himself with
fresh-cut flowers or that he hand-rolls his towels. Yet that’s precisely what he delivers if you make his guest list. In fact, he’s ready for just about anything. “My job as a chef has always been about my attention to detail,” he admits. “I live that way; I party that way.” To Adjey, a great party tells a great story. “You should remember more than just the food,” he waxes poetically. “You should remember the music that was playing, how the flowers smelled, how wonderful the touch of your 800-threadcount napkins felt. A really great party is a sensory overload.” Storytelling is something he learned to appreciate under mentor Chef Dante Rota. Rota, who recently passed away, brought Italian cuisine to the forefront in 1980s Toronto. He was known for introducing diners to traditional dishes and flavours that were generations old, while resisting the urge to compromise their integrity with a modern twist.
technically, Mexican guacamole is just avocado, lime and salt.” Not surprisingly, if you need to fake being a chef for one night, Adjey recommends simplicity: “You can’t go wrong with lobster. No one ever goes to a party and says ‘Adj, lobster again?’” He even shared a recipe with us to demonstrate how easy it is to cook up this crustacean (see sidebar). Oddly, you won’t find Adjey near the finger foods at a party. The reasons are pragmatic: he’s a gestural talker, and food means crumbs in his mouth and restricted hands. “Conversation and the bar go hand-in-hand,” he imparts. “I’ll get my food late at night. I have no problems eating hot hors d’oeuvre ice cold on the counter.” After all, parties are about making connections. “The most successful party is when people form new friendships,” he concludes. “That’s the best part.”
DAVID’S “THEY’LL THINK YOU’RE A SUPERSTAR” LOBSTER • Buy a whole steamed lobster from the market • Take the lobster out of the shell and rinse the flesh • Cut it up in small pieces • Warm it up in a bit of butter • Place bite-sized amounts in serving spoons • Garnish with chopped chives • Salt and pepper to taste
DAVID’S “QUIET THE VOICES IN YOUR HEAD” COCKTAIL • Equal parts vanilla and pineapple vodka (½ or 1 ounce each) • Freshly squeezed pink grapefruit juice • Blood orange soda (e.g. San Pellegrino or Orangina)
_____ That’s why, as a guest, Adjey might step in if he sees you frilling up an otherwise unfussy recipe. “I lose my mind when people think that guacamole is a fridge cleaner,” he says. “People will put cubed tomatoes, green onions, huge chunks of garlic, bits of onion. But
On top of his TV appearances, Chef David Adjey is also the author of Deconstructing the Dish and official Ambassador of Toronto’s St. Lawrence Market.
For more on David Adjey, come play at DIARYOFASOCIALGAL. COM and head to his website: www.davidadjey.com.
M AK E T HE PAR T Y
FOUR OF MONTREAL’S HOTTEST RESTAURATEURS TALK PARTY
HE SCENEMAKER
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I can think of no Montreal rock-star restaurateurs better suited to follow the preceding piece on DAVID ADJEY than the quartet of scenemakers that Diary contributor NINA MOURIN is about to introduce you to. Ready, set, party.
Party pedigree: The sexy Marseilles import studied hotel management in his native France and has been a pioneering industry insider for the past decade. After honing his skills at such well-known Montreal eateries as Time Supper Club, Vernis opened the much-anticipated doors to his own Spanish-style supper club – Santos – six years ago. He recently added another notch to his fashionable Hermès belt with the launch of popular Italian wine bar Dolcetto & Co. The part-time traveller/resto-visionary continues to persevere with plans for a third restaurant, poised for takeoff in 2013. Best party ever: “The best party I’ve ever thrown was probably New Year’s Eve at Santos two years ago. I don’t think there was one person dancing on the floor. They were either on tables, chairs, banquettes, the staircase or the bar.” Secret spark: “With good music, the right people and the right chemistry, you get that spark,” Vernis says. Pop champagne: Although an oldie but a goodie, bubbles, in Vernis’s opinion, are the best ingredient for a fabulous party. “It’s one of those secrets. You can have vodka, gin or rum, but as soon as you throw bubbles into the mix, girls go nuts and guys react,” Vernis laughs. He also says he’s a strong believer that Absinthe gets the party started. Tapas state of mind: His two successful party/dining destinations have one not-so-secret strategy in common: sharing. Stepping away from traditional individual courses, the concept of sharing small dishes, like tapas, creates a synergy, he explains. Midnight jam: Anything Kanye West. Dream scene: “I’d love to attend a GQ after-party, or something like that. That would be fun.”
ROCKING RESTAURATEUR #2: CHARLES MANCEAU Cool beginnings: Like Vernis, Manceau hails from France and spent an enlightening spell at Time Supper Club (all four scenemakers met and bonded there) before working at hotspots Rosalie’s and Buonanotte. He teamed up with partners a few years later to open his own gourmet go-tos: Greasy Spoon, Lucille’s Oyster Dive and Marché 27. As for future plans, the indefatigable foodie is as hush-hush as he is handsome. Best party ever: “The best one? It was back in the day for Karl Meche’s birthday, at Time in 2002. From 7 p.m. up to I think 5 a.m. or something like that, people were going crazy, and the
music was insane. I think it was one of the best parties,” Manceau reminisces with a grin. “Back then, everything was spectacular. I guess maybe it’s because we were younger!” Raw diet: Faithful to his roots, one of Manceau’s favourite foods to serve at parties – and to enjoy generally – is everything tartar. It’s easy on the body, he explains, filling and perfect for lunch or dinner. Party drink of choice: Champagne. Tuning in: Bouncing from hip hop to house music, Manceau believes in going with the party flow. Dream do: A soirée at the iconic Playboy mansion with überhost Hugh Hefner.
ROCKING RESTAURATEUR #3: JEREMIE FALISSARD Building blocks: Rounding out the French trio, dark and dreamy Falissard grew up near St-Tropez, deriving great pleasure from watching his grandmother cook meals that were “just perfect.” As admiration grew into passion, he studied to become a chef. Such flights of foodie soon took him to Paris, where he learned invaluable culinary lessons working in a five-star restaurant before heading to London to try his hand at bartending. Eventually, the party city beckoned and, like Vernis and Manceau, he spent quality time at main attractions Time Supper Club and Buonanotte before striking out on his own four years ago with hit resto/bar Barroco. Beloved for its comfortable rustic decor and tasty fare prepared largely from fresh local produce, its sizable success led to the more recent opening of sister venue Bocata. Best party ever: “The best party I’ve ever thrown was my birthday at Barroco. It was also Barroco’s second anniversary, and all the people who encouraged me, all my close friends and all the people I love were there. You know, [it was special] because it was also the place I worked hard to get,” he recalls. Fete favourites: Oysters and sharable dishes. Cocktail central: According to Falissard, Absinthe Sour is the ultimate addition on the drink front. The music: Although he’s a fan of celebrity DJs and a solid dance beat, the seasoned entertainer is also an advocate of old school reliables like The Rolling Stones and The Doors. “You can throw in that type of music if the atmosphere fits,” he winks. Decor matters: “Details are really important. I actually went to all those antique shops on Notre Dame to find [the details] myself. I wanted people to feel good. I put out candles, books and a chandelier, all antique, all rustic, all cozy,” Falissard says. Dream bash: “The best party is with
‘those guys’” he confides, referring to the three other restaurateurs profiled herein. “But [one with] Jim Morrison would be cool.”
ROCKING RESTAURATEUR #4: DAVID DAYAN Glam globetrotter: David Dayan has many passions, but top contenders are arguably travel, food, and, yes, great parties. To that end, the ambitious young real estate developer/ entrepreneur has made travel a priority and in so doing, has had occasion to sample delicacies from across the globe (not to mention attend some pretty epic parties). And so, when the opportunity arose for him and Groupe Dayan (a family-driven real estate development firm) to take over a commercial space previously zoned as a restaurant, the savvy set gave it a go. Their instincts paid off. Fuelled by a love of international cuisine - Asian cuisine in particular - Dayan opened Ryu in 2011 and a star was born. The hip haven for Japanese-fusion cuisine soared to the top of the food charts, delighting customers with a vibe as relaxed as it is hip. Best party ever: “There have been a lot of good parties. But definitely the Ryu one-year anniversary,” he concludes upon reflection. “We only have a capacity of about 50 people, and I think we were at 250! So yeah, that one was pretty rock ’n’ roll. “ Prep is key: When you’re planning a good party, he says, “always focus on who’s coming, and what type of theme you want to create. What type of guest list? What type of energy? Depending on your direction, you align all the pieces of the puzzle.” Drink of choice: Dayan’s favourite is the Shoshido Shocker, a Ryu exclusive with a vodka base, inspired by and containing Japanese Shoshido peppers. He’s also ever faithful to the party-enhancing potential of vodka and champagne. Food porn: “Food can be sexy. I had these stunning canapés for my condo project launch: compressed watermelon with tuna and a basil leaf on top. It was really elegant and the flavours meshed. I also think it got people in the vibe. But apart from that, oysters are always the way to go,” he declares. Party beat: The nightlife native is all over French electro music because, he explains, it sets the tone for a good night. He’s also into new disco, which comprises a lot of French artists as well. Fantasy fete: “I would most like to party with these three guys. They’re a solid group! I’d also love to party in Hong Kong. There’s also Burning Man,” he adds. “I really want to go to that.”
LAST CALL WITH THE PARTY POSSE THOMAS VERNIS
“Music, decor, alcohol, the right food, and that extra spark; you definitely want some sexiness and swagger.”
CHARLES MANCEAU
“Do things small, and with close friends. That’s how the party begins.”
JEREMIE FALISSARD “Planning a great party is to not expect to have a big party.”
DAVID DAYAN “Don’t try to put [the party] together at the last minute. Plan ahead, get your ideas together, add some entertainment, and think outside the box. Always think outside the box.” For more with the fab four, enjoy a behind the scenes video at DIARYOFASOCIALGAL.COM.
JEREMIE: Shirt, jacket, suspenders, bowtie, cummerbund and pants WAXMAN (Waxman), shoes RALPH LAUREN (Little Burgundy), bracelets (La Maison Simons), watch HAUREX (Haurex.com). THOMAS: Jacket ZARA, shirt and bowtie WAXMAN (Waxman), pants DIESEL, shoes FRED PERRY (Little Burgundy), watch ROLEX, jewellery DOLCE & GABANNA (his own). DAVID: Shirt and jacket WAXMAN (Waxman), pants PHILIPPE DUBUC, shoes BAKER BLACK (his own), pocket square WAXMAN (Waxman), bowtie DUCHAMP (his own), ring BLOODSTONES JEWELS. CHARLES: Shirt DOLCE & GABANNA (Holt Renfrew), pants PHILIPPE DUBUC, jacket, vest, bowtie and pocket square WAXMAN (Waxman), shoes VANS (his own), jewellery ALL CHROME HEARTS. Photographer JORGE CAMAROTTI. Creative director SONIA PRICE. Styling TATIANA CINQUINO. Location LOFT HOTEL. Champagne MOËT & CHANDON. Special thanks to BENJAMIN BITTON at the Loft Hotel.
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ROCKING RESTAURATEUR #1: THOMAS VERNIS
M AK E T HE PAR T Y
BY NINA MOURIN
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THE FIRST AND ONLY GATED RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY IN THE HEART OF MONTREAL’S MAJESTIC MOUNT ROYAL, WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE TO GREENE AVENUE AND MONTREAL’S CENTER CORE.
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“They” say that life’s not black and white, but shades of grey (which recently has taken on a whole new dimension of meaning, but I digress). Strangely, though, at least on a basic level, my life has always been lived in this palette; I habitually wear black and I reside in all white. An analyst’s dream? Perhaps. However, there’s something infinitely soothing and replenishing about a home bathed in the spa-like glow of this natural hue. And coincidentally of late, many seem to share my predilection for the pale, including hot N.Y.-based interiors artist KELLY BEHUN, who routinely escapes to her all-white Manhattan hive. Much to my delight (and hopefully yours) Behun recently confided her “lighter” design philosophies to Diary contributor CAIA HAGEL for this ESCAPE THE PARTY section. Enjoy.
HIVING THE WHITE WAY BY CAIA HAGEL
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n her first professional life, KELLY BEHUN was convinced that Wall Street was her destiny and she secured a bachelor of science in economics from University of Pennsylvania’s prestigious Wharton School of Business before spending a few months at Salomon Brothers (now merged with Citigroup). However, a little introspective thinking soon revealed that her skill set and passions lay beyond the world of finance. In fact, she realized that she had always been far more intrigued by how the lighting and ambiance of her school environments affected her study of economics than the study itself. Armed with that life-changing epiphany, a few focused career U-turns soon saw her well ensconced at Ian Schrager Hotels’ legendary design studio, where she became the protégé of the master himself, Philippe Starck. Among the many lessons learned in this bastion of ingenuity, perhaps the most energizing and inspirational were her introduction to the practical negotiations of space as sculpture and innovation, as well as the powerful potential of white as a primary palette. Indeed, these Every meal is heavenly at Behun’s dining and kitchen tables above the clouds. Photography GENTL & HEYERS
Interiors artist KELLY BEHUN pictured in front of AFTER CHARLOTTE, the Charlotte Rampling mirror created by kelly behun |STUDIO. Photography DANIEL KUKLA
Behun’s monochromatic living room is a perfect counterpoint to the colour and play of the NY skyline and changing seasons beyond.
immersions were critical to the design directions she would eventually take with the launch of her own venture in 2008, kelly behun | STUDIO, from where she has been crafting impossibly chic Narniaesque cloud-white perches in elegant living spaces ever since. Spare, tranquil and absolutely luxurious, Behun’s predominantly white, monochromatic spaces transport owners and visitors to dreamy inner worlds: spiritual hives where the hectic pace and frenetic stresses of the outer world dissolve completely. A firm believer that environment reflects the soul and has the power to enhance quality of life, Behun designs to calm, recharge and inspire. “We live on the 52nd floor of a high rise and there are times that I feel like we are literally in the clouds,” she says of her home and first white design, “so I wanted to play off that and keep the palette uniform, seamless with the sky beyond. I didn’t want to distract from the beauty of the N.Y. skyline and Central Park. There’s nothing I could possibly do that would be more beautiful than what already is, so why even try?” she adds, citing the constant unfolding in-the-clouds scenery – birds, thunderstorms, blimps – as the perfect muses to her serene snow-like interiors. Featured upon completion on the cover of New York Magazine by trend-spotter Wendy Goodman, Behun’s personal space quickly spawned a devoted following of clients who similarly desire to surround themselves with the uplifting, replenishing qualities of white.
“It may seem counterintuitive, but I’ve found an all-white palette to be quite forgiving,” Behun says. “I think all the white at once must short circuit some sensory connection that allows the eye to see imperfections. I have lived in a [nearly] all white environment for eight years now with a husband, two young boys and a dog, and yes there has been some touching up to the walls and floors, but not any more than before we lived this way, and best of all we continue to enjoy its calming and soothing effects. White allows the brain to recalibrate, which can be very important after the sensory overload of living in a big city.” Possibly on account of returning daily to her personal hive for restorative doses of “white magic,” Behun has found new inspiration to take on furniture design as well. Galvanized by a serious love of art, she recently launched a line of furnishings in collaboration with artist Alex P. White. These startling functional treasures for the residential environment, which include mirrors, cocktail tables and wallpaper, were on display this fall to critical acclaim at R 20th Century in New York City. “I love what I do and consider it a privilege to work with people to create beautiful environments together,” Behun beams. “I am constantly inspired by the art and film worlds – and in many ways, I feel like surroundings are the stage set or backdrop for the film that is our life. And if our life is a movie, why not make it a beautiful one?” Touché.
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A Baltimore home with Behun interiors stays faithful to the preferred palette of pale. Portrait of George Michael in study (below) is by N.Y. painter Michael Berryhill. Photography kelly behun |STUDIO
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While I routinely “escape the party” in the serenity of my all-white apartment (ahem hive), sometimes you just need more – a bona fide getaway where work, deadlines, obligations – and yes, even invitations – can’t find you and the most important decision you’ll make all day is what to eat for dinner. Seeing that this is our special winter edition, a feature on the dreamy beachscape of Grenada couldn’t be a better fit. Heck, thanks to well-travelled Diary contributor/superscribe PATRICIA GAJO, you just might be adding it to your travel agenda:
A WHITE HOT GETAWAY TO GRENADA
Photography LALUNA
BY PATRICIA GAJO
Pristine beaches are just one of the many lush lures in Grenada.
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renada may be a quiet, little island in the Caribbean, but it’s big on pleasing the senses (especially taste!) and first-class on luxury. Approximately 12 degrees north of the equator, measuring only 21 by 12 miles with a cozy population of just over 100,000, the wee bijou is widely beloved as “the Spice of the Caribbean” thanks to her generous output of cloves, cinnamon, ginger, and about one-third of the world’s production of nutmeg – and let’s not forget the delectable chocolate and fragrant coffee. Throw in pristine beaches, lush, mountainous terrain, warm, tropical nights and the verdict is clear: In Grenada, the spice is right.
FRIDAY NIGHTS AND ALL THE SIGHTS A Friday night with friends, special someone, or on your own, is best reserved for driving to Gouyave, the town that never sleeps, for the very memorable outdoor fish fry. Two intersecting pedestrian-only roads make for one big street party where the fun lies in jumping from stall to stall and loading up on fresh lobster or sampling fish cooked in more delicious ways than you ever thought possible: fried, steamed, grilled, even reinvented as pizza and lasagna! Frequented by locals and tourists, the weekly event also features a lively bongo show, rum samples (try it with the local sorrel juice, sweet and slightly tart), and mega-screen karaoke where you can
get your Michael Bublé groove on. Here in Grenada, nutmeg is used to flavour everything from pancakes to meats. A hike through the Grand Etang Rainforest passes several nutmeg trees along the way toward the stunning Seven Sisters Waterfall. To see how the spice is processed, the historic Dougaldston Spice Boucan, originally a sugar cane plantation but now a working farm, offers enlightening explanatory tours on how it’s cultivated and its many diverse uses. While most people know about the nut, they are less familiar with the red webbing outside the shell called mace, which is often dropped into stews for added seasoning. The lesson also includes information about the island’s other culinary gifts, such as cinnamon (buy it in sheets) and cocoa. Sweet tooths will particularly enjoy a stopover at the sweet smelling (and tasting) Grenada Chocolate Factory, a chocoholic’s dream come true. And for those wishing to exercise some shopping muscle, a visit to St-George’s Market is a must; souvenirs indigenous to the area are in abundance, including the popular spice necklaces – like fresh potpourri on a string.
GASTRONOMY GUARANTEED TO FLOAT YOUR PALATE All activities in Granada, it seems, can be combined (tastefully!) with a culinary element. Who wouldn’t love a six-hour snorkeling, champagne and lobster cruise? Indeed, this experience is rendered all the more enjoyable when the captain stops by the Underwater Sculpture Park by Jason
Grenada’s capital, St. George’s, is a rich tropical terrain where the spice is always right.
Photography PATRICIA GAJO
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Sun salutations performed in classes at Laluna overlook a private beach. Yoga as it should be.
Spice Island Beach Resort’s scenic Oliver’s.
Photography SPICE ISLAND BEACH RESORT
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Suites at Grenada’s Spice Island Beach Resort look out onto the famous Grand Anse Beach.
Asian minimalism informs the design of Laluna’s 16 beach view cottages.
de Caires Taylor at Molinaire Bay – the only one of its kind on the planet and a veritable feast for the eyes. Another local epicurean fave is the Västra Banken, otherwise known as the Lighthouse Ship Restaurant, permanently anchored at Le Phare Bleu Marine & Resort. Not only does the rooftop deck with canopy of twinkling stars above provide the ultimate ambiance, but Chef Mark Banthorp’s contemporary Caribbean cuisine featuring fresh local produce never disappoints. Signature dishes include his take on the ubiquitous callaloo (the local version of spinach) combined with shrimp in a fluffy soufflé and his four-way chocolate plate, boasting a chocolate parfait, white chocolate crème brûlée, chocolate and marzipan muffin, and dark chocolate ice cream.
ALL THE RIGHT YACHT SPOTS, RESORTS & VILLAS One of the most exciting ways to experience Grenada is aboard a yacht or sailboat docked at burgeoning Port Louis, where locals have seen the likes of Will Smith, Oprah Winfrey and Harrison Ford. The number of berths has rapidly increased from 60 to 170 (upon completion there will be 400), including 73 super-yacht slips for those 25 metres or more. A joint venture between the de Savary Group and the largest marina developer in the world, Camper & Nicholsons, will pour $24 million (U.S.) into the surrounding area. As well, Maritime Village’s investment of $1.5 billion in East Caribbean dollars promises to transform Grenada into the St-Bart’s of the new millennium, with many projects on the horizon, in-
cluding a five-star hotel, luxury homes, deluxe condos, premiere spa, wellbeing lifestyle centre, restaurants, bars and duty free boutiques. Should cruisers not be your first choice in accommodations, the family-run Spice Island Resort offers warm, personalized hospitality and elegant private suites looking directly out onto the famous Grand Anse Beach, some with full dining and living rooms, Jacuzzi tubs, his and her sinks, raindrop showers and four-poster beds. Hammocks and cozy daybeds are added perks and serve as picture-perfect roosts from which to survey hypnotic sunsets or fall asleep to the rhythmic lullaby of rolling waves. Finally for romance, deluxe Laluna is the place to be with 16 beach view cottages, all designed in breezy Asian minimalism. The Bali-inspired spa is so beautifully authentic it boasts two Balinese-born therapists while the new outdoor yoga lounge faces a private beach, adding a whole new dimension to the practice of sun salutations. The sheer beauty of the property makes even more sense once it’s revealed that owner is Bernardo Bertucci, the ex-PR man for powerhouse fashion designer Giorgio Armani, who hired the legendary designer’s architect to mastermind the resort. Among the most famous guests to have stayed at Laluna are Mick Jagger and family and supermodel Heidi Klum, who even shot a swimsuit campaign on the property. For a taste of his motherland, Bernardo imports high quality products from Italy, including cheese, olives and wines – even the resident chef, Daniele Gaetano, hails from Calabria. Hopefully, the verdict is now crystal clear: In Grenada, the spice is right.
Laluna’s pool at sunset – a feast for the senses.
GRENADA MADE EASY
THE GRENADA CHOCOLATE COMPANY Hermitage, St. Patrick’s, Grenada, W.I. 473-442-0050, www.grenadachocolate.com SHADOWFAX BANANA BOAT TOURS 473-437-3737, www.bananaboattoursgrenada.com THE LIGHTHOUSE SHIP RESTAURANT (VASTRA BANKEN) Petite Calivigny Bay, St. George’s, Grenada, W.I. 473-444-2400, www.lepharebleu.com LE PHARE BLEU Petite Calivigny Bay, St. George’s, Grenada, W.I. 473-444-2400, www.lepharebleu.com PORT LOUIS 473-439-0000, www.portlouisgrenada.com SPICE ISLAND BEACH RESORT Grand Anse Beach, St. George’s, Grenada, W.I. 473-444-4258, www.spiceislandbeachresort.com LALUNA VILLA ESTATE Morne Rouge, St. George’s, Grenada, W.I. 473-439-0001, www.laluna.com
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Laluna’s Bali-inspired spa is beautifully authentic, a veritable Shangri-La.
Speaking of travel – and we do rather extensively in this ESCAPE THE PARTY section – there’s one spot on the globe that I’ve been itching to explore for awhile now, and that’s the capital of the United States, Washington, D.C. There’s just something so historic, cool and elegant about the epicentre of politics. Unfortunately, I haven’t had the pleasure yet, but thanks to Diary contributor/ Washington connoisseur SUZANNE WEXLER, when I do, I’ll be well equipped. So will you. (One more thing, this winter edition would be wholly incomplete without a nod to the definitive white house. Just saying.):
use, a Donovan Ho The mod-stylel, is one of many great te ho on Kimpt y in D.C. places to stay THE DONOVAN HOUSE Photograph
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diverse s feature n sets over su ndmark D.C.’s la ture. Here, the ashington architec itol Building, Warine Corps the Capent and U.S. M d). Monum l (in foregroun Y IMAGES GETT Memoria phy NEW Photogra
s part of Wall comprise The Freedomar II Memorial. Each of the World W lden stars represents 100 the 4,048 go ho died in the war. Americans wy SUZANNE WEXLER Photograph
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A favourite the Lincoln of president Obam Memorial draws milli a’s, ons of visitors ea Photograph y SUZANNE ch year. WEXLER
D.C. THE ULTIMATE MIXER BY SUZANNE WEXLER
THE INTRO
I first got hooked onto Washington, D.C., years ago after meeting a friend at Off the Record in the basement bar of the Hay-Adams Hotel. In it, one gets the distinct impression of what it’s like to hob-knob among Washington’s elite, with whispers going on at a nearby booth. From the grand federal buildings to Georgetown restaurants, many of D.C.’s must-see destinations likewise boast an old-world charm or a stately appeal. But nowadays, with the country’s first African American president in office for a second term, and the latest hotspots stressing all that is au courant and cool, the historic D.C. suddenly feels like it’s on the cuttingedge of the future. A month ago, I stood on the rooftop bar of the stylish Donovan House boutique hotel and noticed a skyline full of cranes (rooftops bars have become very popular in D.C.). Hip new restaurants and cafés touting buzzwords like ‘sustainable’ and ‘organic’ breathed life into formerly derelict neighborhoods, while young and brainy twenty- and thirty-somethings filled the streets. Since 9/11, the D.C. area has received $500 billion in federal funding and perhaps not-so-coincidentally, it is now one of the rare places for young graduates to find jobs.*
The traditional district already impressed with its monument-rich landscape, carefully urban planned to restrict most tall buildings while elegantly accommodating over 200 museums. Now thanks to modern additions, many of which abide by a refurbish-the-old ethos, D.C.’s classic formula has been shaken and stirred – and refreshed – most brilliantly.
THE DRINK
The latest incarnation of the D.C. cocktail den is the Columbia Room, an 18-seat max speakeasy type lounge tucked in the back of The Passenger Bar. My friends and I were seated at a raised platform in the rear, instead of the customary bar area, because of our last-minute reservations (note: Reserve in advance!). Head bartender Katie Nelson then took our orders. But there was no menu. Of course there was no menu; customers were simply expected to say what they wished to drink, or Katie and her colleague offered suggestions. (A three-drink tasting menu is standard, but we opted for à la carte.) One friend asked for a mint julep. Katie, however, hadn’t picked enough mint leaves from her homegrown garden that morning, so she whipped
up a Lion’s Tail instead – a drink she plucked from a 1940s cookbook. It had bourbon, such ‘Christmassy’ spices as allspice, limejuice, Boker’s bitters and an orange peel. My other friend wanted something not too sweet and was handed a Fancy Sour, a cocktail with sweet vermouth, marrasquino liquors and a dash of orange bitters. If this is sounding all too forced, please assuage your fears; the cocktails were spectacular. We ordered more rounds, despite having begun the night with three (!) all-organic margaritas at El Chucho, a new downscale hotspot that served up tacos on a stylish rooftop deck.
THE FOOD
D.C. was, and still is, known for posh steakhouses and elegant establishments, such as the award-winning 1789 Restaurant in Georgetown, where Obama dined last year with Angela Merkel. Yet nowadays, even 1789 has “sustainable seafood” and “humanely raised animals,” as the latest craze of soul-friendly comfort food sweeps through D.C. Newer restaurants are typically more casual than D.C.’s traditional venues, and are often painstakingly decorated with repurposed relics and upcycled
antiques. Sharing tapas-size plates or charcuteries is often encouraged, and thanks to D.C.’s diverse population, ethnic food selection is particularly impressive as well. A shortlist includes: Little Serow for Thai, Fiola for Italian, Proof for charcuteries, Estadio for fun Spanish cuisine and cocktails, Belga Café for mussels and waffles, Bistro Bohem with a Czech menu and specialty coffees, and Brixton, for a Scotch egg and smoked Jamaican jerk chicken. (Brixton was opened by the owners of the amazing world music club Eighteenth Street Lounge, where the band Thievery Corporation united.) We settled on the Pearl Dive Oyster Bar, a Louisiana-inspired place decorated with vintage furniture and recycled lighting. The menu features a selection of gumbos, po boys and an interesting mention of potato latkes. Seated at the bar for brunch – brunch in D.C. is also huge – Bloody Marys swirled around me. The gumbo was a tart, nicely spiced version of the New Orleans classic.
THE MONUMENTS
Fortunately, many of Washington’s museums and monuments are geared toward general international audiences and don’t exclusively focus on
om. The Columbia RoE COLUMBIA ROOM Photography TH
Th raphy Pe Pearl Dive O EARL D IVE OY yster Palace. STER PA LACE
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EATERIES
EL CHUCHO 3313 11TH ST. N.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. 202-290-3313
Language is the lure Kruger exh in this Ba and Sculp ibit at the Hirshho rbara rn Museum tu Photogra re Garden. phy SUZA NNE WEXLE R
1789 1226 36TH ST., N.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. 202-965-1789, WWW.1789RESTAURANT.COM
horses, drums, and a flag in the background — it’s literally staggering live theatre that would make David Byrne’s head swivel. If you do make Arlington a prime destination, be sure to stay at the über-elegant Ritz Carlton Hotel in Pentagon City. It’s a short cab ride away from both Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and the National Mall. For military buffs, off-duty personnel can sometimes be seen drinking and dining at the hotel’s Fyve restaurant lounge. As for D.C. hotels, the Sofitel and the mod chic Donovan House will appeal to different tastes. Like Rome, D.C. wasn’t built in a day. Since its inception in 1790, the Washington area has seen war and misfortune, and Obama’s White House is near Lafayette Park, where slaves were once traded. Yet from restaurants to monuments, Washington’s diverse offerings each impress with a palatable commitment to quality and class. Add to the mix the latest influx of hip bars, restaurants, and rollicking rooftops – along with a diverse and young population, and upand-coming neighbourhoods – and you’ve got yourself a revived cocktail generation, sans white gloves. Indeed, you can carry on like an unruly pundit and no one will notice. Enjoy!
*According to a must-read 2012 Time magazine article by Andrew Ferguson, Bubble on the Potomac.
RITZ-CARLTON 1250 SOUTH HAYES ST., ARLINGTON, V.A. 703-415-5000, WWW.RITZCARLTON.COM SOFITEL 806 15TH ST. N.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. 202-730-8800, WWW.SOFITEL.COM
HISTORIC SITES
MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. MEMORIAL 1964 INDEPENDENCE AVE. S.W., WASHINGTON D.C. 202-426-6841, WWW.NPS.GOV/MLKM
LITTLE SEROW 1511 17TH ST. N.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. WWW.LITTLESEROW.COM
EINSTEIN MEMORIAL 2101 CONSTITUTION AVE. N.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. 202-334-2000
FIOLA 601 PENNSYLVANIA AVE. N.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. 202-628-2888, WWW.FIOLADC.COM
NEWSEUM 555 PENNSYLVANIA AVE. N.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. 202-292-6100, WWW.NEWSEUM.ORG
PROOF 775 G ST. N.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. 202-737-7663, WWW.PROOFDC.COM
SMITHSONIAN NATIONAL AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM 600 INDEPENDENCE AVE. S.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. 202-633-1000, WWW.AIRANDSPACE.SI.EDU
ESTADIO 1520 14TH ST. N.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. 202-319-1404, WWW.ESTADIO-DC.COM America’s rise into super-powerdom, a potential turn-off for some Canadians. Another bonus? Most things at the ‘National Mall’ are free. Top picks on these fronts include the Martin Luther King Jr. memorial, the Einstein memorial, the Newseum (small fee), and the Air and Space Museum. For those with modern sensibilities, I highly suggest a trip to the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden. Its circular building is a breeze to walk through, but its facade and artworks linger within. As for American-themed scenes, there are many marvels to be seen, sculptural and otherwise. Many quintessential D.C. landmarks boast a white facade (our Diary of a Social Gal winter theme), including the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, the World War II Memorial, and, of course, the White House. The Korean War Veterans memorial captures soldiers trudging along through murky ground, resulting in a classic yet arrestingly novel display. Arlington National Cemetery – which is technically in Virginia – is beyond impressive as well, appealing to modern tastes in the most unexpected ways. For example, the marines do a meticulously practised walk with a dropped leg during funeral performances with
DONOVAN HOUSE HOTEL 1155 14TH ST. N.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. 202-737-1200, WWW.DONOVANHOUSEHOTEL.COM
BELGA CAFÉ 514 8TH ST. S.E., WASHINGTON, D.C. 202-544-0100, WWW.BELGACAFE.COM BISTRO BOHÉM 600 FLORIDA AVE. N.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. 202-735-5895, WWW.BISTROBOHEM.COM BRIXTON 901 U ST. N.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. 202-560-5045, WWW.BRIXTONDC.COM PEARL DIVE OYSTER PALACE 1612 14TH ST. N.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. 202-319-1612, WWW.PEARLDIVEDC.COM FYVE RESTAURANT LOUNGE 1250 SOUTH HAYES ST., ARLINGTON, V.A. 703-415-5000, WWW.RITZCARLTON.COM
DRINKERIES
OFF THE RECORD 800 16TH ST. N.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. 202-638-2716, WWW.HAYADAMS.COM
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GO D.C.
HAY-ADAMS HOTEL 800 16TH ST. N.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. 202-638-2716, WWW.HAYADAMS.COM
HIRSHHORN MUSEUM AND SCULPTURE GARDEN 700 INDEPENDENCE AVE. S.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. 202-633-4674, WWW.HIRSHHORN.SI.EDU LINCOLN MEMORIAL 2 LINCOLN MEMORIAL CIRCLE N.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. 202-426-6841, WWW.NPS.GOV/LINC WASHINGTON MONUMENT MADISON DR. N.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. 202-426-6841, WWW.NPS.GOV/WAMO NATIONAL WORLD WAR II MEMORIAL 17TH ST. AND INDEPENDENCE AVE. S.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. 202-426-6841, WWW.NPS.GOV/NWWM THE WHITE HOUSE 1600 PENNSYLVANIA AVE. N.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. 202-456-2121, WWW.WHITEHOUSE.GOV
COLUMBIA ROOM 1021 7TH ST. N.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. 202-393-0336, WWW.PASSENGERDC. COM/COLUMBIA
KOREAN WAR VETERANS MEMORIAL DANIEL FRENCH DR. AND INDEPENDENCE AVE. N.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. 202-619-7222, WWW.NPS.GOV/KOWA
EIGHTEENTH STREET LOUNGE 1212 18TH ST. N.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. 202-466-3922, WWW.EIGHTEENTHSTREETLOUNGE.COM
ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY MEMORIAL DRIVE, FORT MYER, V.A. 703-607-8000, WWW.ARLINGTONCEMETERY.MIL
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oftop bar. e’s swish roHOUSE van Hous N The Donophy THE DONOVA Photogra
SLEEPERIES
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ES C APE T HE PAR T Y
And now as a special holiday treat (we aim to spoil), Diary presents a brand new column - here and online – penned by our very own GLOBETROTTING GOURMET. He’s savvy, seasoned, and hits the planet’s foodie hotspots on a regular basis. Even sexier? We’re keeping his I.D. under wraps. Take that Camilli.
OLD WORLD CHIC, NEW WORLD WOW GG IN NYC
A
s legend would have it, in a simpler time in Moscow, a woman named Mari Vanna welcomed diners into her home with open arms, feeding them a wide variety of exquisite Russian delicacies on her finest china. For her most cherished customers, she would furnish them with a key to the front door and invite them to return at their convenience for another delicious and cozy home-style meal. Roll the clock forward to today and the warmth and Russian hospitality can again be found in present day New York on a popular block between the Flatiron and Gramercy.
THE EXPERIENCE
Mari Vanna immediately transports you into a prototypical Russian home feel. The restaurant is small, but personal and if you listen very closely to the banter at the bar and tables, you’re sure to pick up Russian conversations that enhance the experience of Moscow of old. The trinkets and traditional Russian treasures throughout the eatery serve only to augment the journey.
THE MENU
For those of us with Russian roots, the menu offers classic dishes such as borscht and blintzes. We sampled the traditional beef stroganoff served with buckwheat and mushrooms in truffle oil, as well as the timeless chicken
Kiev cutlets, cooked to perfection, juicy and moist, filled with a decadent herbed butter sauce. Each dish was flawless. However, for the real connoisseurs, the piece de resistance is, of course, the Petrossian Caviar platters from red to black served in a stackable Russian doll dish. Magnificent!
THE VODKA
No journey to Russia would be complete without a sampling of top-tier Russian vodka. Beyond the authentic Russian vodkas, the restaurant bar also offers selections from all over the world, more than 70 options to choose from for the vodka aficionado or novice with a sense of adventure. Mari Vanna also makes an eclectic list of
house-infused Russian vodkas with flavours ranging from sweet to spicy and savory. It’s a great opportunity to expand horizons and sample unique flavours. If an intimate and authentic soirée in Moscow of old is the objective, a visit to Mari Vanna is a can’t miss opportunity. Na zdorovje! And yes I did receive my “key” and have every intention of returning on “key Mondays”…. See you there. The GLOBETROTTING GOURMET continues to dish&dazzle at DIARYOFASOCIALGAL.COM MARI VANNA, 41 East 20th St. (near Park Ave S.), New York, N.Y., 212-777-1955.
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SUPERWOMEN ON SUPERESCAPES
MITSOU GÉLINAS AND HEIDI HOLLINGER ON HOW (AND WHERE) THEY RECHARGE THEIR BATTERIES BY JENNIFER CAMPBELL
I
’ve had the pleasure of knowing these extraordinary women – and dear friends to each other – for years now. Heidi and I date back to our pigtailed days of summer camp. Mitsou (a.k.a Mits) was my first interview over a decade ago when I finally decided to take a late-blooming leap of faith and pursue the media dream. (Indeed, her easy, affable nature was likely the reason I didn’t pass out midinterview.) Since then, thanks to the social beat and a city that is as hamlet as it is cosmopolitan, I’ve crossed many a path with Heidi and Mits and, accordingly, had the opportunity to get to know them both pretty well. To say that they impress is something of an understatement. Bona fide superwomen is more like it. Practically famous from birth, Mitsou made her television debut in a Direct Film commercial at age five and, as a tween, shone in the popular soap Terre Humaine. She next splashed big in 1988 with her iconic hit song Bye Bye Mon Cowboy. From there, it was an
onward spiral of seemingly everything: She starred in a series of movies including Denys Arcand’s Les Invasians Barbares, cut more albums, conquered the world of publishing as magazine director of Clin d’oeil, made her mark as a successful businesswoman with the launch of Dazmo, emerged as a beauty ambassador for no less than Lise Watier Cosmetics, and even voiced a character for the acclaimed animated feature Paranorman. Most recently, after spending 12 great years on C’tencore Drole at Radio NRJ FM 94.3, she joined the team at Rythme FM 105.7, where she currently co-hosts Heureux! with Sébastien Benoit, Mondays-Thursday, from 4 to 7 p.m. Did we mention spokeswoman for the Quebec Breast Cancer Foundation, loving wife and mom of two, good daughter, sister, friend and social gal? Mitsou seamlessly transitions from one role to the next, all without ducking into a phone booth for a Superman-esque quick change. Her pal Heidi is no less accomplished (or busy). After graduating McGill with
a B.A. in modern languages (Russian and Spanish) and serving as photo editor for the McGill Daily, Heidi headed to Moscow State University to pursue a graduate degree in Political Science. Not one to rest on her laurels (or rest at all), within just two years, she became the first non-Russian photo editor of the leading national daily newspaper Pravda. From there, her career as a photojournalist exploded both in Russia (where she is widely credited with revolutionizing political photography), and internationally, where triumphs included: portrait sessions with such world leaders as Jean Chrétien, Fidel Castro and the Dalai Lama; more than 30 one-woman shows from Omsk to Los Angeles; the launch of several successful books and publications in leading newspapers and magazines including the New York Times (a cover photo), Harper’s Bazaar, the Globe and Mail, and prominent Russian weekly magazine Ogoniok; and the entrance of her works into prestigious private and permanent collections belonging to the Moscow History
Museum, Moscow House of Photography, Cirque du Soleil and Montreal Museum of Contemporary Art. Of late, she has added television to the list, hosting Waterfront Cities of the World on Discovery World HD and its French counterpart, Ports d’attache on TV5. Yes, she too is an active supporter of causes close to her heart such as the Quebec Breast Cancer Foundation, The Kovalev Foundation, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and Jhamtse International in India. Like Mitsou, Heidi is also a loving mom of two, a good daughter, sister, friend, and social gal! Clearly, super was an apt description. But what I wanted to know was just where and how these superwomen and super friends (who met and bonded when Heidi photographed Mitsou over 12 years ago) recharge, refuel, and, in keeping with Diary lingo, escape. In a candid interview, they delivered the goods, captured in a series of quotes at right and in an interview available online. Enjoy.
SPATASTIC H: One of the things we love to do together is a spa day (or spa afternoon) where we can spend quality time and get a massage. Mitsou’s mom and sister are accomplished shiatsu therapists so she was weaned on it! A favourite is Strohm spa on Nuns’ Island. M: Heidi is a big fan of the Scandinavian spa experience and has a Finnish sauna at her country home, where, in winter, her stepdad tops it off with a dipping hole in the ice. H: Yes, Mitsou has taken the plunge! M: Only for a second! (with a smile).
RETAIL THERAPY
GOURMET GO-TOS
M: With limited time, I’ve fallen for personal shopping. The complementary service, offered at hot retail spots like TNT, BCBG, Holt Renfrew and The Bay, is amazing. All the fun in half the time!
H: I absolutely love the new Brasserie Central in Westmount. The slow-cooked salmon is exceptional.
H: We still have our shopping days ... M: Which are even better now with a little help from the personal shoppers lol!
M: Heidi and I go there together – and with our kids – often. Other favourites are Crudessence (healthy and delicious) and Bottega, which my family often heads to on weekends. H: Can’t forget to mention the markets, both Atwater and Jean Talon (great escapes), where my boys and I buy all kinds of fresh goodies and eat at Crêperie du Marché, and of course Atwater’s Satay Brothers.
EXERCISE M: To be there for others and be the best you can be, taking care of yourself – your body – is crucial. So I work out regularly, whether it’s Pilates, running, or core-training. It keeps me in shape and lets the steam go. H: Yoga at Victoria Park is a mustgo, but my favourite exercise is done outside, weather permitting! I bike everywhere and play tennis. That’s our family sport in the summer until hockey comes along in winter.
TRAVEL TIME
MANI-PEDI BLISS
M: Weekends are often spent at our country place, where one of our treasured family activities is horseback riding. But we do miss Jamaica, where my eldest daughter learned to walk. We hope to return soon!
M: Because my skin is so sensitive and I’m allergic to a lot of products, I don’t do facials very often, but I’ve become a devotee of the manipedi experience. I love Candy Nail Bar. It’s also great for a shower or birthday party.
H: My mom is Finnish and I spend a lot of time in Finland, with family and friends. Helsinki is extremely beautiful, with mind-blowing Art Nouveau architecture and fine Nordic cuisine.
H: Nothing like a good mani-pedi! I’m a fan of Ongles Westmount and the wonderful Kim.
Photography MATHIEU FORTIN. Assistant JESSE BRUNETTE. Styling JOSÉE MÉNARD. Hair and makeup LESLIE-ANN THOMSON (Folio). Products TRESEMMÉ HAIRCARE and MAC COSMETICS. Assistant MICHEAL GOYETTE (Folio). Location STUDIO L’ELOI.
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H: That’s all it takes!
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HEIDI’S ESCAPES
MITSOU’S ESCAPES TNT 4100 Ste. Catherine St. W., 514-935-1588, www.tntfashion.ca BCBG MAX AZRIA 1300 Ste. Catherine St. W., 514-398-9130, www.bcbg.com HOLT RENFREW 1300 Sherbrooke St. W., 514-842-5111, www.holtrenfrew.com THE BAY 585 Ste. Catherine St. W., 514-281-4422, www.thebay.com CRUDESSENCE 105 Rachel St. W., 514-510-9299, www.crudessence.com BOTTEGA 65 St. Zotique St. E., 514-277-8104, www.bottega.ca
ONGLES INTENTIONNELS 1257 University St., 514-392-4775, www.intentionails.shutterfly.com CANDY NAIL BAR 6218 St. Hubert St., 514-276-7835, www.candynailbar.com SCANDINAVE 71 de la Commune St. W., 514-288-2009, www.scandinave.com STROM SPA 1001 de la Forêt Blvd., Nuns’ Island, 514-761-2772, www.stromspa.com
VICTORIA PARK 376 Victoria Ave., 514-488-5182, www.vicpark.com BRASSERIE CENTRALE 4858 Sherbrooke St. W., 514-439-0937 ATWATER MARKET 138 Atwater Ave., 514-937-7754, www.marchespublics-mtl.com/Atwater JEAN TALON MARKET 7070 Henri-Julien Ave., 514-937-7754, www.marchespublics-mtl.com/Jean-Talon SATAY BROTHERS 138 Atwater Ave., 514-661-6983, www.sataybrothers.com LA CRÊPERIE DU MARCHÉ 7070 Henri-Julien Ave., 514-238-0998, www.creperiedumarche.com CAFÉ SOUVENIR 1261 Bernard St. W., 514-948-5259, www.cafesouvenir.com
L’EXPRESS 3927 St. Denis St., 514-845-5333, www.restaurantlexpress.ca LEMÉAC 1045 Laurier Ave. W., 514-270-0999, www.restaurantlemeac.com RENOIR 1155 Sherbrooke St. W., 514-285-9000, www.restaurant-renoir.com L’AUBERGE SAINT-GABRIEL 426 St. Gabriel St., 514-878-3561, www.lesaint-gabriel.com NORA GRAY 1391 St. Jacques St., 514-419-6672, www.noragray.com WESTMOUNT NAILS 4932 Sherbrooke St. W., 514-482-6033
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30104 (06/2010)
Photography TIM GEORGESON
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INS PIR E T HE PAR T Y
‘As noted in the inaugural edition of Diary, this section, INSPIRE THE PARTY provides a unique forum to go deeper with some of the extraordinary Montrealers who at once motivate and drive the party. For a higher purpose. I can think of no better fit than ISABELLE HUDON, who, from the moment I met her several years ago, not only inspired me to be the best professional I could be – she is the ultimate paradigm of the peaks women can achieve in the modern age – but is also one of the kindest, most philanthropic individuals I have ever had the pleasure of encountering. Indeed, Isabelle’s singular accomplishments and titanic heart are a source of great inspiration and I am so proud and honoured to share herein the harvests of a candid interview she recently gave to Diary contributor CAIA HAGEL:
SHOOTING FOR THE MOON, FALLING AMONG THE STARS
INS PIR E T HE PAR T Y
ISABELLE HUDON
I
sabelle Hudon is one of those rare human beings whose life you can say has changed society as we know it. An adoring mother [to Arnaud], a happily married wife [to Gilles Coulombe], and one of the most influential players in both business and charity in Montreal, Hudon has seemingly waved a special wand and reshaped our landscape, not just by adding to the modernization of industry and the roles a woman can play within it, but also by glamourizing the humanitarian envelope and the virtues of being kind. As the embodiment of the virtuous and the ambitious, she has come to be fondly referred to in local circles as The Mother of Montreal. On how she has managed to achieve this honour: “I adore being surrounded by people who are better than me, who help me grow,” she confides from behind her long glass desk in her airy white office on the top floor of the historic Sun Life building, where she is president of Sun Life Financial Québec. Flawlessly chic in a tailored Burberry suit, encircled by hallmarks that speak to her stellar business acumen and impressive philanthropic portfolio, including a symbolic portrait of her on the stock exchange floor as the lone woman amidst a sea of men, a heartshaped red leather stool gifted by dedicated employees, and a surfeit of books triumphing the importance of caring for others, you wonder: Who could be better? “It hasn’t always been this way,” Hudon explains humbly, citing the early days before her upward trajectory. “I was rebellious when I was young, I lost interest in high school and then was really uninterested at University. I tried so many different majoring subjects that I spent more in enrollment fees than anything else!” Ultimately the bright but bored maverick dropped out of higher education completely. “It was risky but I knew that I had to pursue my quest for knowledge in the most practical way possible, by working,” she says.
Her first stop was Ottawa. “I went there to learn about power – how it works, how to achieve it and how to manage it without falling prey to the abuse of power,” she recalls. And what better arena to learn this in than the political one? Accordingly, her first job was as a press secretary with the Conservative party. Once ensconced in this world, she spread her wings. “I was in my early 20s, the work meant I travelled to developing countries and it was in that context that I discovered the world. I learned so much about the relativity of life and significance of mutual understanding. I was with these amazing people, people we think, from our First World point of view, have nothing, and yet they think they have everything – which in so many ways, they do. It was a moving and lifechanging experience to see through their eyes.” When Hudon returned to Montreal, she had an expanded understanding of the dynamics of power, the subtleties involved in managing people and how to use her emotional intelligence more effectively. Confident and poised for new career challenges, she was soon hired by the Chamber of Commerce, where she quickly became president/CEO of the Board of Trade of Metropolitan Montreal, successfully transforming its performance and socioeconomic outreach. Next, she heeded the call of leading ad agency Marketel, from which she was poached just two years in by Sun Life Financial, where she has served as Quebec president since 2010. Although seemingly disparate, the red thread running through the varied positions Hudon has held is their requirement for understanding and managing large groups of people, large budgets and most pivotal, large challenges. “I am a conceptual thinker and work at large scale,” she confirms. Indeed, if there was such a thing as a “corporate doctor,” Hudon would be one, for she has trained herself to see exactly where the flaws in the
team or strategy lie, and in each case, to use her skill set to operate on these weak spots by building effective new teams and strategies, re-energizing enthusiasm for the vision, and restoring healthy performance to the enterprise as a whole. “I work best when the challenges appear almost impossible to beat,” she says, “and I’m one of those persistent people that doesn’t accept the word no until I’ve heard it at least 22 times! I’ll do everything in my power – and my team’s – to actualize a goal. But then when I do help to achieve the next-to-impossible, it becomes about managing the day-to-day, and this is my cue to move on to meet my next [healing] objective.” Has she made the difference in each position and left an indelible impression? Absolutely. “Everybody loves her,” says close friend, media personality Dominique Bertrand. “Not just because she excels in the corporate world, fully dedicates herself to myriad charitable endeavors and has a compelling, charismatic manner, but because she has dared to imbue her business dealings with the same kindness she applies to all areas of her life. Until she came along, nobody believed that you could be powerful and also kind.” Not surprisingly, Hudon’s meteoric rise has been littered with awards. She has been named one of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40, one of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women, Consumer Choice Award’s 2011 Business Woman of the Year, and Réseau des femmes d’affaires francophones du Canada’s (RFAFC) Francophone Business Woman of the Year. “So many good people have helped me along the way,” she says, holding one hand over her heart. If I can give back, I will, in any way I can.” And she has, in spades. In 2012 alone, Hudon has raised invaluable funds and awareness for Fondation Québec Jeunes, Société Canadienne de la sclérose en plaques, the Museum of Contemporary Art, Marie-Clarac
Hospital, Espace pour la Vie Ecological Society and the WXN Network, while maintaining longer term relationships chairing the board of directors of L’Université du Québec à Montréal and the Collectif de festivals montréalais. She additionally sits on the boards of the Institute for Research on Public Policy, Turquoise Hill Resources, Hydro Québec, Aéroport de Montreal, Holt Renfrew and Parc Jean Drapeau. Of what holds this diverse set of commitments together, she says, “They all need help and I am happy to oblige.” Her outreach covers art, medicine, ecology and infrastructure; all the ingredients that cement a society. “She is passionate and determined and knows how to rally people around her to help her help others,” says friend and in-house legal powerhouse Kim Thomassin. “With strong convictions, and an overwhelming desire to be generous and make a difference, she is an amazing role model. Being philanthropic and professionally successful is contagious around her!” “I have this inspiration that I repeat as often as I can to my son, family, friends, colleagues and everyone I meet: ‘Shoot for the Moon and if ever you miss it, you will fall among the stars’,” says Hudon of her tireless optimistic drive and general worldview. “We live for such a short time, there is not a minute to waste in going for our greatest potential.” From the moondusted perch of her spacious downtown office, we go on to discuss where her leadership and heart will take her next. In philanthropy, it will be Les Grands Ballets, she confides, her warm smile filling the room – and in business, it will undoubtedly be teasing out Sun Life Financial Québec’s best possible potential. Falling among the stars again and again is surely this trailblazer’s worstcase scenario as she continues to live her motto and shoot for the moon.
115 / DI ARY O F A SO C IA L G A L
BY CAIA HAGEL
116 / DIA RY O F A S O CIAL G A L
INS PIR E T HE PAR T Y
And now a nod to another globechanger: BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF GREATER MONTREAL
MAKING THE DIFFERENCE E
stablished in 1975, BIG BROTHERS
BIG SISTERS OF GREATER MONTREAL devotes itself to making the future
of our youths better and brighter by creating positive mentoring relationships for children in need of a significant adult role model in their lives. Overseen by a team of trained professionals, the organization pairs each child with a congenial adult (carefully assessing common interests and temperaments) with a view to establishing an enduring and productive bond for the child (which is often just as rewarding for the mentor). It also offers a wide array of programs and activities – including the successful Prometheus and Horizons projects – aimed at enhancing the success of the relationships. Speaking of which, the proof is in the pairing: 46 percent of children paired are less likely to use drugs, 27 percent are less likely
to drink, 52 percent are less likely to drop out of school and 37 percent are less likely to skip classes.* Perhaps, however, one little sister said it better than statistics ever could: “Having a Big Sister means living again. It means forgetting about the worries of life. Feeling appreciated, acknowledged. It gives me wings! I didn’t have these in school, but with wings, I can go farther.” Diary is proud to endorse Big Brothers Big Sisters of Montreal and looks forward to collaborating with them and lending support. For more information or to get involved, visit WWW.GFGSMTL.QC.CA.
* Statistics are taken from a public/private ventures study conducted in 1992-1993.
IT’S NICE TO BE IMPORTANT. IT’S MORE IMPORTANT TO BE NICE.
LET’S
LET’S
PART Y
PART Y
WWW.DIARYOFASOCIALGAL.COM
JU S T F O R F U N 118 / DIA RY O F A SO CI AL G A L
DIARY OF A SOCIAL PAL AN AD HOC ADDENDUM
BY LORD TOMMY SCHNURMACHER
And now, before we say goodbye until next season, we close with our final section, JUST FOR FUN, which we initiate with another rhyme of a good time from Sir TOMMY SCHNURMACHER (back by popular demand):
Ayaya ya ya yigh Ayaya ya ya yigh Roam home to Leonard Cohen Jennifer in heels on the phone Covering the glitz Loving the new Ritz Pouring Moët & Chandon bubbles How can there be troubles?! To be on the scene What can it all mean? Nothing semantic But as usual she’s a tad frantic She orders me around And around! Don’t offend Don’t pretend Paint it black but Jen sez it’s winter white The theme is bright White all night Right all night Right airtight Now and then on CNN Anderson Cooper In the Situation room It’s Wolf Blitzer For all to see Some see Some sea and sand and organic seaweed Far from any religious creed What am I, Josh Freed? Taylor Mead At the Bowery Poetry Club Every Monday Never on a Sunday Melina Mercouri Fellini, Gucci, Fiorucci Justin or Kevin Is it true, though? Designer name and designer label Mabel and Moms Mabley Remember her? Instant fame and then forgotten Don’t mention the Omni Or Ann Romney Can I be bolder? How about Ann Coulter? Not Jenn’s best belle She’s no Michelle! Starck reality Real reality Fealty reality Tovah Feldshuh Yo-Yo Ma and Yo Yo Grandma Grenadier and Geraldine the Grenadine Invading Grenada It was an Itsy bitsy teeny weenie Yellow polka dot bikini That Nouriel Roubini wore for the first time today Fiscal cliff and a tiff with terror She has never really had a serious error Remember Iman and Bowie? Truly an amazing story You can’t lie or buy a Shiz Tzu All eyes on Heidi and Mitsou I could go on and and make this really absurd But sadly, I am not paid by the word. Jenn – I sincerely hope I made your deadline. But it’s you who gotta do Da headline!
119 / DIARY O F A SO C IA L G A L
ROSIE GOES RETAIL
JU S T F O R F U N
We move now from poetry to comics as contributing editor SUZANNE WEXLER introduces her latest creation,a sassy social gal bound to make you smile: REALLY, ROSIE.
BY DIMITRI PANOS Self taught artist, illustrator, musician.@ Demeter.bandcamp.com.
THE OFFICIAL VOL. 2 DIARY PLAYLIST BY CONNOISSEUR JAY AVAILABLE ON OUR
CHANNEL DIARYOFASOCIALGAL
FASHION FINALE WITH SONIA’S SELECTS AND CONNOISSEUR JAY
D.C.: THE ULTIMATE MIXER
SOMETHING SPECIAL (USHER)
BLUE JEANS (LANA DEL RAY)
ONE MORE TIME (DAFT PUNK)
MCCORD HITS EVENT BULL’S EYE … TWICE
THE MAGIC OF MFW
THE BRIGHT STUFF
SUPERWOMEN ON SUPERESCAPES
LA VIE EN ROSE (EDITH PIAF)
VOGUE (MADONNA)
ADORN (MIGUEL)
SUPERWOMAN (ALICIA KEYS)
DIARY IN DAFFODIL-LAND
DIARY LOVES FASHION
GO HARD OR GO OM?
SHOOTING FOR THE MOON
COME FLY WITH ME (FRANK SINATRA)
FASHION (DAVID BOWIE)
GANGNAM STYLE (PSY)
FEELING GOOD (MICHAEL BUBLÉ)
FOR THE LOVE OF KIDS
JAY GODFREY FROCKS
TABLE TALK: LOOKING THROUGH CRYSTAL GLASSES
OLD WORLD CHIC, NEW WORLD WOW
ABC (JACKSON 5)
LES ARTISTES (SANTIGOLD)
WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD (LOUIS ARMSTRONG)
BRIGHT LIGHTS (GARY CLARK JR.)
THE GRANDEST F1GRAND PRIX
A SOLE-FUL LIFE
DAVID ADJEY DISHES
DIARY OF A SOCIAL PAL
IN MY MIND, AXWELL MIX (IVAN GOUGH & FEENIXPAWL FT. GEORGI KAY)
THESE BOOTS ARE MADE FOR WALKIN’ (NANCY SINATRA)
CHAN CHAN (BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB)
LISZTOMANIA (PHOENIX)
F1 BLAZES ON
JENNERATION NEXT
THE SCENEMAKERS
THE ADVENTURES OF REALLY, ROSIE
BORN TO BE WILD (AC/DC)
D.A.N.C.E (JUSTICE)
THE COOLEST (JADEN SMITH)
ISN’T SHE LOVELY (STEVIE WONDER)
LET’S DO LAUNCH
SUPERSARTORIALS FOR THIS SEASON’S PARTIES
HIVING THE WHITE WAY
MAKING THE DIFFERENCE
FAMILY AFFAIR (MARY J. BLIGE)
PUTTIN’ ON THE RITZ (HARRY RICHMAN)
LEVELS (AVICII)
HEAL THE WORLD (MICHAEL JACKSON)
WHITE ON
PARTIES PRIVÉS
VOLARE (GYPSY KINGS)
DIARY DOES LAUNCH
TRESSING UP
SPICE UP YOUR LIFE
SAYING GOODBYE WITH SOCIAL MEDIA
WHERE THE PARTY AT (JAGGED EDGE FT. NELLY)
LOVE AND HAPPINESS (AL GREEN)
JAMMING (BOB MARLEY)
MIDNIGHT CITY (M83)
121 / DIA RY O F A S O CIAL G A L J U S T F O R F U N
INSTA-DIARY
Unless you’ve been living under a rock (or even then), you’re acutely aware of the power of social media and the role it has come to play in our world. In this spirit, we invite you to check out some of the images that we’re proud of on Instagram (diaryofasocialgal). Yes, we have pinspiration too (diaryofasocialgal), twitter fever (@diarysocialgal), and a near obsession with Facebook (diaryofasocialgal). What can we say? Social gals love social media.
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