Uptown Holiday 2012

Photo by Curt Parker

Photo by Curt Parker

Blakelee Loft, our cover girl for Uptown’s Holiday 2012 issue, models a luxe silk evening gown designed by Mary L Couture from Dazzle Me Twice, St. Louis’ most exclusive resale boutique for designer fashion and accessories. Blakelee was photographed at the Frontenac Hilton and you’ll see her modeling chic designer dresses in our Holiday 2012 fashion feature, “Party Perfect”.

Blakelee, a proud resident of Downtown St. Louis, enjoys being involved in the city’s renaissance. She thrives on the many worldclass cultural events that St. Louis has to offer, especially attending concerts and music festivals.

Blakelee is a district sales manager for North American Breweries, and she likes to travel frequently. A sports enthusiast, Blakelee is a former captain of the Rams Cheerleaders.

| 314-367-0857

Publisher from the

The holiday season is always a special and magical time of year. Everyone, young and old, delights in sharing joyful celebrations with their families and friends, giving and receiving heartfelt gifts and spreading good cheer.

Uptown Magazine’s Holiday 2012 edition celebrates the arrival of this glorious season of giving with a wealth of must-read articles.

We’ve highlighted holiday fashion for men and women with a special fashion preview of the best new looks in designer party dresses, holiday fashion must-haves, designer tuxedos for men, as well as our favorite designer handbags and party pumps

Our Holiday 2012 Luxe List focuses on the most-wanted luxury gift ideas for the special people on your gift list.

We’ll keep you up-to-date on the new holiday beauty trends in our article, “Holiday Beauty Essentials”. The holiday season’s most sought-after precious gems are rubies and emeralds, and we think that we’ve chosen the very best and brightest of these awe-inspiring gems in our article, “Rare Rubies & Elegant Emeralds”.

A must-read in Uptown’s Holiday 2012 issue is “Uptown’s Holiday Gift Guide”, which will help you select just the right gifts for your loved ones.

“Pairing Wine With Food” offers great suggestions for serving memorable wine and cuisine. “Holiday Entertaining” is filled with creative ideas for your New Year’s Eve Champagne Supper, Christmas Eve Buffet and Christmas Day Brunch.

“Elegant Interiors” will inspire you with easy and affordable decorating ideas such as Thibaut’s Spring Lake collection of fabrics and wallpapers.

Who’s who in interior design? Find out in our special section that profiles St. Louis’ top interior designers.

Uptown’s “Annual St. Louis Restaurant Guide” will tempt your taste buds with tantalizing cuisine for the holidays.

If an after-the-holidays winter vacation is in your future, you’ll want to explore the idyllic island of Hawaii, the perfect tropical destination, in “Aloha, Hawaii”.

On behalf of our Uptown staff, we wish you the very best this holiday season.

Susan Ashton Publisher

2012 luxe list

Uptown’s holiday gift list for men and women.

by robyN Walker

holiday

ALEXIS BITTAR BRACELETS

alexis bittar’s colorful gemstone and lucite bangles make holiday gift giving sparkle and shine. available at nordstrom www. nordstrom.com image courtesy of nordstrom, inc.

SUE WONG COCKTAIL DRESS

you’ll turn heads when you’re wearing sue wong’s gorgeous olive nylon mesh sheath embellished with beads. available at neiman Marcus www.neimanmarcus.com image courtesy of neiman Marcus.

LUXE LEATHER

GOODS FOR MEN luxe leather goods for men are an appreciated gift such as boconi’s leather bag and overnight bag with buckle closure and frye’s leather briefcase. available at nordstrom www.nordstrom.

THE STATEMENT NECKLACE & RING

albarre Jewelers’ magnificent yellow and white gold link necklace with white and yellow diamonds and two-tone gold ring make truly memorable gifts for every woman on your holiday gift list. 314-997-1707 www.albarre.com

give the men on your gift list a luxurious patek philippe watch from timekeepers’ exclusive collection of vintage designer watches. www.timekeepersclayton.com 314-721-4548

BOSS BLACK MEN’S SUIT

boss black’s charcoal double-breasted suit in luxe wool fabric is a fashion essential for every welldressed man. available at nordstrom www.nordstrom. com image courtesy of nordstrom, inc.

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FASHION HOLIDAY

by robyN Walker

Gold haWk FashioN FroM atheNa boutiQues be on trend this holiday season with athena boutiques’ chic designer fashion from gold hawk, poleci and french connection. you’ll adore athena boutiques’ unique accessories, fabulous fashion jewelry and cocktail perfume. visit athena boutiques’ kiosk on the second floor at west county Mall. www.athenaboutiques.com. 314-993-0055. 1 2 3 4 5 6 4 5

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deVoN leiGh JeWelry FroM NeiMaN MarCus devon leigh’s brightly-colored green onyx and jade jewelry is designed with gleaming 18-karat gold plate that you’ll wear day and night. you’ll find devon leigh’s fashion jewelry collection at neiman Marcus. image courtesy of neiman Marcus. www.neimanmarcus.com. 314-567-9811.

North FaCe JaCkets FroM NordstroM a holiday fashion essential that will keep you warm and cozy this winter is north face’s tri-climate vintage white polyester jacket from nordstrom. a chic casual look with black leggings and riding boots. www.nordstrom. image courtesy of nordstrom, inc.

lilly PulitZer sCarVes FroM PiNk MaGNolia dress up your holiday wardrobe with the ultimate fashion accessory, lilly pulitzer’s luxe silk and cashmere multi-colored confetti fringed scarf. available at pink Magnolia, a lilly pulitzer via shop www.lillypulitzer.com. 314-997-6161. ut

old GriNGo boots FroM Giddy uP JaNe get the aspen, colorado fashion look at giddy Up Jane, ladue’s chic western-inspired fashion boutique in ladue. giddy Up Jane is the go-to boutique for designer label boots from old gringo, frye, hunter, and lucchese. you’ll also find a plentiful selection of casual jackets, sweaters, coats, jewelry and more. 314-993-9944.

saFia day JeWelry FroM Vie boutiQue vie, ladue’s chic designer fashion boutique, is on trend for the holidays with the newest designer fashion, accessories and jewelry. one of our favorite holiday must-haves from vie is this contemporary semi-precious gemstone necklace designed by safia day, exclusively at vie. 314-997-0124.

Bdesigner

by robyN Walker

must-wear shoeshandbags

e on trend when you’re dressing up for holiday happenings with chic designer handbags and shoes that definitely have the ‘wow’ factor. We’re certain that you’ll stand out from the fashionista crowd when you’re wearing these fabulous designer shoes and handbags.

lilly PulitZer’s GlaM Gold MetalliC ClutCh FroM PiNk MaGNolia. iMaGe Courtesy oF lilly PulitZer.

JiMMy Choo’s Glittery heeled saNdals. iMaGe Courtesy oF NeiMaN MarCus

saM edelMaN desiGNs ultra soPhistiCated suede aNd PateNt leather saNdals. iMaGe Courtesy oF NordstroM, iNC

Alexander McQueen’s designer clutches from Neiman Marcus are the ultimate fashion accessory for every special occasion. Vince Camuto’s lapis blue suede platform pumps and sandals from Nordstrom

ViNCe CaMuto’s laPis blue suede PlatForM PuMPs aNd saNdals. iMaGe Courtesy oF NordstroM, iNC

Prada’s orNate Faux JeWel aNd satiN lutChes. iMaGe Courtesy oF NeiMaN MarCus.

tory burCh’s briGhtlyColored CaNVas satChel. iMaGe Courtesy oF NordstroM, iNC

MaNolo blahNik’s ClassiC NaVy blue suede Party PuMPs. iMaGe Courtesy oF NeiMaN MarCus.

PeNdaNt NeCklaCe

jewels our favorite holiday

by robyN Walker

we’ve chosen the holiday season’s best and brightest jewels designed with brilliant white diamonds, rich red rubies and gorgeous green emeralds. These must-have holiday jewels are the ultimate gifts for every woman on your holiday wish list.

eMerald aNd diaMoNd riNG FroM Curt Parker JeWelers.

eMerald aNd diaMoNd

FroM Curt Parker JeWelers.

eMerald aNd diaMoNd braCelet FroM Curt Parker JeWelers.

ruby aNd White Gold CoCktail riNG FroM NoVak JeWelers.

jewelry including an elegant emerald and diamond bracelet, emerald and diamond ring, and a captivating emerald and diamond pendant necklace. These stunning statement jewels are perfect when paired with an emerald green designer dress.

Mary Pillsbury Jewelers will take your breathe away with this rare ruby and diamond pendant necklace set in white gold. This awe-inspiring necklace definitely has status appeal and is destined to become one of your most prized possessions.

One of our favorite holiday jewels is Novak Jewelers’ large domed cocktail ring designed with red rubies and white gold. Wear this magnificent ring with the little black dress and set yourself apart from the fashionista crowd.

A must-see is Albarre Jewelers’ enchanting, one-of-a-kind “Flower Basket’ brooch designed in white gold with diamonds, rubies, sapphires and emeralds. This unique holiday brooch looks spectacular when you’re wearing with a chic red suit.

Our favorite estate jewelry for holiday gift giving is Timekeepers’ collection of elegant ruby and emerald rings embellished with sparkling diamonds.

We think that this collection of ruby and emerald jewels is not only exceptional, but truly amazing. ut

ruby aNd diaMoNd

NeCklaCe FroM Mary Pillsbury JeWelry.

d diaMoNd ers.

luxe

THE TUX

by roby

We’ve chosen the season’s best new looks in designer tuxedos from three talented fashion designers, Ted Baker London, Robert Talbott and Robert Graham.

Robert Talbott has designed a masculine green and black plaid jacket with black satin lapels that is the perfect jacket for holiday celebrations. This handsome tuxedo jacket is available at Mister Guy Men’s Store and Woody’s. Accessorize your formal attire with Robert Talbott’s classic solid white pique dress shirt and classic black faille bow tie.

The season’s musthave tuxedo is Ted Baker London’s trendsetting navy wool shawl-collar tuxedo and navy cotton dress shirt from Nordstrom. Although black tuxedos have always been considered to be the most traditional look in mens’ formal wear, we think that the navy tuxedo is a fresh, modern approach to formal attire for men.

ted baker

loNdoN’s NaVy shaWl Collar Wool tuxedo aNd NaVy

CottoN dress shirt FroM NordstroM

iMaGe Courtesy oF NordstroM, iNC

The new trend in men's formal wear is color such as navy blue, dark green, burgundy, and masculine plaids.

robert talbott’s blaCk aNd GreeN Plaid tuxedo JaCket, White PiQue dress shirt aNd blaCk Faille boW tie is aVailable at Mister Guy MeN’s store aNd Woody’s.

robert GrahaM’s CoNteMPorary burGuNdy aNd blaCk tuxedo by robert GrahaM CaN be ordered at kiM kuehNer MeN’s store.

Photos Courtesy Curt Parker

blaCk satiN CoCktail dressdesiGNer JuliaN JoyCe Made by MaNdalay aVailable at Vie iN ladue 314.997.0124

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holiday essentials beauty

by robyN Walker

if posh parties, high-society balls and glittering galas are on your social calendar this holiday season, treat yourself to some professional pampering __ from head to toe. If you follow our six-step holiday beauty regimen, we’re certain that you will enhance your natural beauty and add a touch of glamour to your holiday look.

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1. haVe your hair hiGhliGhted at a ProFessioNal saloN.

Make an appointment now to have your hair highlighted or colored by a professional hair coloring expert. if your hair is medium to light brown __ or if you’re a natural blonde __ blonde highlights will frame your face with a pretty halo and give you a more youthful, natural-looking appearance. if your hair is dark, you can add a lighter shade of color to your hair. perhaps your hair is showing a hint of gray. if so, now is the perfect time to have your hair professionally colored. we recommend the coloring experts at samantha’s other place, natural beauty of ladue and tymm’s salon.

2. treat yourselF to a ProFessioNal MaNiCure aNd PediCure. for the holidays, treat yourself to a professional manicure and pedicure to keep your nails looking their best our favorite places for manicures are samantha‘s in clayton, tymm’s salon in ladue and natural beauty of ladue. also have your hands and feet moisturized to eliminate any rough spots or chapped areas due to cold weather.

3. PaMPer aNd ProteCt your FaCe With a FaCial. if you have a professional facial, your skin will look better and feel smoother. Most beauty salons and spas offer highperformance facial that are formulated especially for your skin type so we recommend that you consult with the beauty specialists at body aesthetics in creve coeur, natural beauty of ladue and tymm’s salon in ladue.

4. Wear a Fabulous FraGraNCe. amper yourself with a deliciously-scented designer ne of our favorite fragrances for the holidays hierry Mugler, a contemporary and elegant perfume for sophisticated, fashion-conscious women. ordstrom www.nordstrom.com image courtesy

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GorGeous shade oF liP Color. or shiny, lustrous lips, rely on a fabulous lipstick in a vibrant, rich shade of pink, coral, burgundy or red. when you’re dressing up for the holidays, add a touch of high-impact, long-lasting lipstick for

eye lashes Need MasCara id you know that your eye lashes frame your eyes as

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TimelessTreasures for generations

by WeNdy sChlesiNGer

When you step into Timekeepers, you step out of the heart of Clayton and feel as if you’ve stepped into another time dimension entirely.

Surrounded by antiques, deep burgundy carpeting, wooden display cases and conversations in Russian, it feels like another time and place but you’re actually in a fine jewelry store with pieces on the

with Ella Ilyashov, the daughter

when Ella is speaking Russian on the phone to

gifts for her at Timekeepers, every year for the past thirty years and she simply called Ella to thank her - a common occurence in this place where customers become family. And to a family business, that’s everything.

In 1979, Semyon Ilyashov, a watchmaker, and his wife Alina, a baker, came to this country with two children and $500. In just two years, with a lot of hard work they opened their first store on Olive in University City. Thirty years later, they are still in business with two stores, at 9495 Olive in Olivette, and 17 North Meramec in Clayton, and they routinely work with customers from around the world. Ella Ilyashov, their daughter, a gemologist and

appraiser, and her husband Edward Pernik, a jeweler, run the Clayton store while Alina, the matriarch of the family, keeps it all running smoothly from the Olive Street store. On any given day day you may also find Ella’s own children, Sarah, eight, and Shawn, eleven, helping out.

As the Ilyashov family has grown, so has their family of customers. People come to the store initially because they want something out of the ordinary. Ella describes their unique, vintage collection as “things that are one-of-a-kind that you’ll never find anywhere else - things from the 1700s until today.” Along with antique clocks, animated toys and music boxes they carry a wide selection of vintage jewelry and vintage-inspired modern jewelry including engagement rings, brooches, watches, pocket watches and more. The customers stay, however, because “They can trust us because they know we’re here, and we’re here to stay.” says Ella. They also do everything - buy, sell, trade, repair - all in house.

The other primary reason customers keep coming back is the relationship. Ella explains “they know that we know what they like”. It’s like a registry, but without the computers or index cards. It’s all done the old fashioned way, through conversation and understanding. So just like that customer on the phone who called to thank Ella for the hand-selected birthday gift, they know and appreciate their clients likes and will go to great lengths to find items. One customer in particular has an intriguing story. He was looking for a very complicated, rare, vintage 1950‘s Patek Philippe Swiss watch that cost over $200,000. It was difficult to find but because of their international connection of dealers it took them only about two weeks to locate the watch.

While this all may seem very old world, they’re really on the cutting edge of fashion. One of the latest trends today is

women wearing men’s vintage watches from the 50s and 60s. Timekeepers has a stunning, large collection of authentic watches to choose from, all of which have been restored and come with a one year warranty. Rolex watches come with a two year warranty.

Their ability to offer these warranties is due to Semyon Ilyashov’s skill as an expert watchmaker whose reputation results in the store receiving nearly daily packages from around the world for his attention. Even though some pieces may be hundreds of years old, he either finds the parts to repair them, or makes the parts himself on his lathe. He is one of only a very few in the region to do so.

Timekeepers has a collection that must be seen to be appreciated. Their international connections, dealer network with over two hundred contacts, and their estate buying efforts keep the selection always unique and different. But it always comes back to the family. Ella says “It’s amazing to see the progression of the family” describing a family’s growth from engagements to children to Bar Mitzvahs to children’s weddings. And she should know. She herself started working in the store when she was eight and she frequently receives comments like “I remember you this big!” Now the comments are directed toward her own daughter, Sarah. “Oh, she’s the spitting image of you” As for Shawn, who already does minor, simple repairs, he wants to be a watchmaker some day. Lucky us.

When Ellen Ross first saw an advertisement for The Curtain Exchange she thought it was too good to be true; beautiful, readymade, designer curtains that you could try out in your home for 48 hours before purchasing.

Luxe

liViNG the liFe

Especially for those who have difficulty envisioning full window treatments from a little swatch, this was the ideal solution. She checked into the company further, discovered they were looking for someone to open a location in St. Louis, and seven months later she was up and running in her beautiful showroom on Maryland Avenue in Clayton. She just celebrated six years in business on October 15th and is treating her customers to a great sale on floor samples and consignments.

One of her customers, Lisa Malone, couldn't say enough good things about The Curtain Exchange and Ross herself. "It's Just like a jewelry store, the fabrics are just so scrumptious and luxurious. It's impossible to find anything as stylish and high quality - and they're so fast." She added "I love working with Ellen, I think she has a great sense of taste and style and she's very accommodating."

I talked with Ellen about this innovative business and what sets it apart.

how does the exchange work?

Customers can bring in their measurements along with notes and pictures of their room, and working with a curtain specialist, select curtains that will go with their decor and style. Take the curtains home, try them out for 48 hours with your furniture, your lighting, and your decor and if you like them, buy them, (we hem them to

fit at no additional coat) and if riot, return them for new candidates. Or if you find something in our wide selection of fabrics you can have quick ship panels made from in-stock fabrics delivered in a couple of weeks. We have about 150 or so readymade panels to choose from and about 800 fabrics for custom drapes.

What makes these curtains different from other ready-made curtains?

Primarily it's the quality. All of our curtains are made with three fabrics; the face fabric, the interlining, and the lining all of which contribute to the way a curtain hangs, its proper weight, and the luxurious look of the curtain. We don't skimp on details. For example we use weighted corners and the craftsmanship is superb.

Where do your fabrics come from?

needs. We can also help with paint colors and upholstery, not just curtains.

Do you work with Interior Designers?

Yes, quite frequently. It makes it easy for them since their clients can see a full panel in their rooms and not have to take a chance on custom designed draperies working from just a swatch. They also appreciate our extremely quick turnaround time. With priority quick ship we can have custom draperies to the client in 1012 business days if the fabric is in stock.

other than designer curtains what other products do you offer?

The fabrics are sourced from all over the world but the curtains are all made by experienced seamstresses here in the U.S. We have new fabrics all the time in a variety of textiles - linens, cottons, silks, chenilles, velvets - many of which are made just for The Curtain Exchange.

Do you offer decorating services?

Of course we will advise you in the store on the large selection of fabrics and styles but we offer in-home consultations as well. The consultation fee is a one time fee of $100 regardless of the number of times we go out. We can also do a proper measurement in the home for $50. We select the window treatments that will enhance your room and its style, decor and color, also taking into consideration the purpose of the room, the lighting, and privacy

We also make custom bedding, pillows, bed skirts and headboards. We provide full installation services and hardware options. We have several hardware lines like The Finial Company and House Parts. We offer many different options in drapery hardware. Modern, traditional, transitional, or contemporary, our product styling is always up to date. Interior designers nationwide find us to be a valuable resource for curtains and hardware. We also offer window shades, top treatments, blinds and valances.

Our newest partnership is with bedding specialist Peacock Alley. We make a good team because of our shared ambition to provide uniquely customized products and services. Peacock Alley has a rich tradition of making the bedroom a place of beauty, comfort and tranquility. Because Peacock Alley uses a lot of neutrals like gray, silver and cream, their fabrics and colors coordinate beautifully with our products. This allows The Curtain Exchange to design an entire bedroom, not just the curtains.

I can't get to the store, can I still get sample panels to try out?

Yes! Contact me by phone or email and I can email you images and then we ship the panels directly to your home. We recently did a home in Vancouver, Canada that turned out just as they had envisioned it.

Is it too late to get curtains in time for the holidays?

No. The ordering deadline for Thanksgiving is November 11th, and December 9th for Christmas. What's something that customers may not know about you?

Many people are unaware that we also do woven wooden shades. ut

By definition,

interior design describes a group of various yet related projects that involve turning an interior space into an "effective setting for the range of human activities" that are to take place there. An interior designer is someone who conducts such projects. Uptown presents talented St. Louisans who have that aforementioned knowhow. Here they share tips on putting more pizzazz in your interior spaces.

With 20 plus years of experience, Diane Rosen of Diane Rosen Interiors brings her clients expert ways to create beautiful, yet energy efficient and environmentally friendly spaces. Recycle, reuse, reclaim, sustainability – these are everyday words in her design vocabulary. Rosen’s philosophy is all about Greening Your Home Interior she is often asked to speak on subjects like

Rosen shared a

can still get your basic stripes, small and large patterns and prints. But if you want more pizazz, bling or faux textured artisan walls, check out Romo's Omexico series. From soft rubbed faux to replicating stone textures on your wall(s), it’s the perfect accent for that extra wow factor. These papers are fun, eclectic and add that wow factor in the most cost effective way.”

SUSAN BLOCK

Designer Susan Block believes in the power of imagination. A professional interior decorator for more than 31 years, Block’s trademark is eclectic and comfortable elegance with a touch of whimsy. She loves to add a lighthearted sense of fun to all her design projects. Her delightful store The Designing Block reflects this philosophy. It offers two floors chock full of funky fun –fabulous yet affordable finds in designer furniture, mirrors, throw pillows, lamps, purses and bags, bold jewelry, adorable baby gifts, English-flavored occasional furniture, and soy based candles. Be sure to check out Block’s newest collection of unique holiday gifts and gorgeous acrylic chandeliers. “We have lots of fun and fashionable gift items like great scarves, fun clutches in striped wool, Hot Girl Pearls, note cards, belts with bits, and especially for hunters - sunglasses, lighters, and pillows in camoflage. Our unique acrylic chandeliers come in large and medium sizes. They’d be great in any room.”

TEDDY KARL

Teddy Karl’s “got it covered” when it comes to interior design. He brings over 15 years of experience to The Great Cover-Up, a full service interior design studio. Born and raised in Massachusetts, Karl began as a bridal shop owner, where he created every gown himself. His interior design career naturally evolved with his next job at Sunshine Drapery & Interior Fashions. Karl then moved back to Massachusetts in 2001, heading the design department for Leonards New England. His work was featured in Cape Cod Islands Home magazine and Cape Cod Life.

Today, The Great Cover-Up showcases his personal philosophy that more is definitely better. It’s packed with classic traditional style and plenty of color, mixing patterns and textures – a layered look with old money feel. The store offers designer fabrics, trim, wall coverings, custom window treatments, bedding, furniture, collectibles, and lamps. Karl’s specialty items include his own beautiful hand sewn pillows. Be sure to look for a great selection of wonderful Holiday gifts and accessories.

BARBARA PRENTICE

Barbara Prentice lived in Connecticut for a number of years.

“I was always involved in some aspect of design.” After a move to St. Louis, she worked with close friend and fellow designer Ellen Ross. Seven years ago, Prentice assisted in the opening of Ross’ store The Curtain Exchange. “We specialize in window treatments, but also offer a full design service. As far as my design philosophy goes, I feel a home needs layering, especially in sumptuous bedding.” Prentice calls this The Fluff Factor. “I like to take a few risks, by mixing and matching.” Prentice starts with the basics —foundations, rugs, window treatments, paint colors, and wall coverings. “I work off of core colors. I like the juxtaposition of mixed periods, modern and historic. The most well appointed homes are ones that are a work in progress. Adding a new piece or an antique that speaks to you always brings special interest to a room.”

Décor Interiors’ designers, Wendy, Kathy and Laura, attribute their success as sought-after professional interior designers to being great listeners. Combined, they have over 60 years of experience. In addition to helping Décor’s clients create the rooms of their dreams, they also stay within budgets that they are given.

Wendy handles all of the purchases for home furnishings and accessories. To stay on trend, Wendy attends the design markets twice a year.

Wendy notes that Décor’s interior design business focuses on transitional and contemporary furnishings and accessories that include designer sofas, benches, chairs, ottomans, dining sets, artwork, mirrors, tables, lighting fixtures, beds and mattresses.

Décor’s 20,000-square-foot showroom is customerfriendly because Wendy, Kathy, Laura and Amanda arrange vignettes of actual room settings within the showroom. The room decor changes frequently, usually every week, so there is always something fresh, new and different for the clients to choose from.

Whatever your interior design needs are, we’re certain that the experienced design team at Décor will help you create the decorator-inspired rooms that you’re always envisioned.

5 ways to create

easyelegant5

by robyN Walker

thibaut’s sPriNG lake ColleCtioN is aVailable at the Great CoVer uP.

Creating elegant interiors in your home can seem to be a daunting task, as well as expensive. However, if you follow this easy-toimplement decorating plan, you can achieve the ‘decorator’ look. We’re certain that you can easily transform your home from ordinary to extraordinary with these creative decorating ideas.

1. CoordiNated FabriCs & WallPaPers

For a true decorator touch, give definition to your rooms with coordinated patterned wall coverings and fabrics. We especially like Thibaut’s Spring Lake collection of decorator fabrics and wallpapers from The Great Cover Up. Thibaut’s Orchid pattern from the Spring Lake collection is a great choice for redecorating a living room or a dining room. The coral-colored wallpaper and the coordinating fabric can be used on the ceiling, walls and curtains to give the room a pulled-together, professionally decorated look. You can complete this sophisticated decorator look with a neutral white sofa and a sisal rug.

2. luxe PilloWs

Luxe pillows, especially when they’re embellished with tassel fringe or roping, will create an inviting and comfortable ambiance in your home. Interior designer Teddy Karl of The Great Cover Up designs exquisite pillows with the best decorator fabrics and meticulous attention to detail. Joy Tribout Interior Design carries luxe decorator pillows by Caroline Cole. You can also buy custommade pillows in luxurious fabrics such as sumptuous silk at The Curtain Exchange. Interior designer Susan Block, owner of The Designing Block, and Kay Wallace, owner of F.O.B. Saint Louis, can also show you how to enhance your decorating projects with pillows.

3. luxe silk CurtaiNs

Create a sense of timeless elegance in your living room and dining room with the addition of luxe silk curtains in a pastelcolored striped fabric such as pink, blue or green. For decorator curtains that are ready made and ready to buy, you should visit The Curtain Exchange. The decorator-style curtains are affordably priced and they’re virtually mistake-proof because you or your decorator can take the curtains home and see how they look in your home. The Curtain Exchange also has interior designers on staff

as well as custom upholstering services. They’ll custom make pillows as well as table skirts. You’ll also find elegant decorator hardware for your window treatments. In addition to elegant window treatments, The Curtain Exchange carries Peacock Alley linens and bedding that will create a truly luxurious look in your bedroom.

this eleGaNt liViNG rooM Was desiGNed by susaN bloCk.

4. eleGaNt liGht Fixtures

Elegant light fixtures are the focal point of any room. To add a touch of oldworld elegance, we suggest an elegant brass or crystal chandelier. You’ll discover stunning vintage crystal chandeliers at Jon Paul Designs & Collectibles, which has the largest inventory of vintage crystal chandeliers in St. Louis. You’ll be amazed how the addition of one of these shimmering crystal chandeliers can dramatize any room in your home, especially your dining room, living room or foyer. With the help of these tasteful, yet affordable decorating ideas, you and your interior designer, in partnership, can achieve a truly elegant and inviting ambiance throughout your home that you and your family will enjoy for years to come.

aiNts

Colorful paint is one of the most important and most affordable decorating tools for creating elegant, livable interiors. We recommend that you paint your master bedroom a pretty shade of pale blue to give the room a soothing ambiance. A vibrant color for your dining room that adds an element of elegance is a rich, deep crimson. Interior designers often use the color yellow to breathe new life into a room and make the room appear airy and spacious. Green is a must-use color because there are so many shades of green that harmonize well with other colors such as yellow, magenta and coral. If you have a garden room, create a tropical paradise by painting the walls bright lime green and upholstering white wicker furniture in a vibrant coral and lime green floral fabric with accent pillows of coral and lime green stripes. You can add potted palms and ceramic garden stools to complete the look. ut

aboVe: these luxe silk CurtaiNs are aVailable at the CurtaiN exChaNGe. leFt: this ViNtaGe Crystal ChaNdelier is FroM JoN Paul desiGNs & ColleCtibles.

holiday

entertaining

The holiday season is the perfect time for a festive New Year’s Eve champagne supper, a Christmas Eve buffet or a Christmas Day brunch.

the NeW year’s eVe ChaMPaGN

Create a sumptuous champagne supper for your closest friends. It’s easy and your friends will enjoy the opportunity for great food and camaraderie. We suggest that you serve an intimate, yet simple supper of shrimp cocktail as the first course, a bibb lettuce salad with Roquefort dressing for the second course, beef tenderloin for the third course, and an elegant dessert of Buche de Noel, which is the French version of flourless chocolate cake. You can also serve espresso in small cups with the chocolate cake. Cover your table with a festive red and green plaid tablecloth and matching napkins. Use your finest china and silver. Scented Trapp Candles from Ladue Florist can be arranged in the living room, the den and the dining room. You’ll need a set of champagne flutes and a beautiful arrangement of fresh flowers for your dining table.

ChristMas eVe buFFet

Our suggestion is to create a delicious buffet for your friends who drop by for the holidays. Just cover your dining room table with a pretty patterned tablecloth and napkins such as the French linens from Provence Boutique. Keep the buffet menu simple. We suggest a smoked turkey, a honey baked ham, brie cheese garnished with fresh grapes, crackers and freshly-baked French bread with butter or cream cheese, a loaf of pate, a fresh garden salad and, for dessert, fresh fruit salad with a variety of Christmas cookies. A bottle of white wine is a good accompaniment for this simple menu. Grace your table with an arrangement of fresh greenery and flowers.

ChristMas day bruNCh

A Christmas Day brunch is an easy and casual way to entertain your friends and family. An easyto-plan brunch that will earn you compliments is to gather ten to twenty of your friends. Send them an invitation from The Service Bureau. There are all sorts of clever invitations there. A two-hour brunch from 10 am to 12 noon always works well. We suggest a simple bar menu of white wine and fun-to-serve drinks such as mimosas (champagne with orange juice) and bloody marys (tomato juice and vodka). You can mix up a batch ahead of time. Serve the drinks in your best glassware and add a wedge of fresh lime to make the drinks fun and festive. The brunch food can be prepared ahead of time and placed on a table in your kitchen or dining room. Buy red and green paper napkins and matching plates. Pick-up food is the easiest such as Danish pastries, fresh fruit kabobs (strawberries, bananas, pineapple), bacon with brown sugar glaze, and sausage burritos, which you can make using tortillas, scrambled eggs, red peppers and sausage.

Enjoy the magic of the holiday season with these creative, imaginative and entertaining ideas. ut

just in time for the holidays!

by WeNdy sChlesiNGer

'Tis the season to celebrate. Whether it’s a large holiday gathering or an intimate New Year’s Eve Dinner for two, you’ll want to make sure your guests are happy and the number one way to assure that is with the food and drink.

Pairing wines with foods can be as easy or as complicated as you like. Susie Priesmeyer of Wine Simply explains the driving principle of wine pairing - “The food makes the wine taste better, and the wine makes the food taste better. They should complement one another, not overtake or overwhelm.” To get started there are several rules of thumb. First is to drink what you like. If a Gewurztraminer is too sweet for you, take it off the list. Next, Priesmeyer gives the adage “If it grows together, it goes together.” When pairing foods, think regionally, they generally go together the best. Another aspect to take into account is to let your senses guide your choices. Don't look at just one ingredient such as chicken, consider the sauce or seasonings to determine which wine works best. Lightly seasoned, grilled chicken is different from one served in a hearty sauce like coq au vin. Another way of looking at your menu is to match the weight of the wine with the weight of the dish. For example you might pair lobster with a buttery chardonnay.

For an exquisite holiday feast try this sample wine pairing menu from Priesmeyer:

• Appetizer Course - Grilled Shrimp paired with Albarino from Spain or a White Burgundy such as Mersault

• Main Course of Turkey - pair it with a Beaujolais especially Nouveau or a Chardonnay, though not an oaky or lightly oaked one.

• Main Course of Red Meat such as Lamb, Venison or Beef - pair it with a peppery and/or spicy Syrah or California Cabernet Sauvignon

• Cheese Course such as goat cheese - pair with Sancerre or Pouilly Fume'

• Cheese Course such as Brie or other creamy cheeses - pair with Champagne or Italian Prosecco

• Dessert such as Chocolate Souffle - pair with Banyals.

• Dessert of dark, rich chocolate (can simply be fine, imported, chocolate bars) pair with a Cabernet Sauvignon

To learn which specific wine and vintage is right for your menu there are a number of experts to guide you on your choices. Priesmeyer does full-service wine pairing where she pairs, selects, purchases and serves the wine for your party and gives either a formal education where she talks to the entire group, or works in a more informal manner milling about among the guests to inform them and answer questions. Or, if you just need her to simply go pick up the right wines for your dinner she can do that too. There are also stores like Balaban’s out in Chesterfield or The Vino Gallery in the Central West End, who will be happy to provide you excellent advice on specific wine pairings. Bring in your menu and they will be happy to guide you. If you’re not ready to throw a fete on your own, try out a local tasting dinner to learn the techniques. Balabans has two dinners coming up on November 4th and December 16th. Each is a five course, prix-fixe dinner with specially selected wines from a particular vineyard. Or, for a more private, relaxed atmosphere, invite Priesmeyer into your home or corporate event to conduct a pairing dinner or simply a wine tasting.

The more you learn about wine, like how the growing conditions, the soil and how it’s barrelled affect the taste, the more you will appreciate your purchases. Priesmeyer likes to “uncork the mysteries of wine” and make it fun and informative, not intimidating or overwhelming. The holidays are a great time to venture into pairings and think beyond red for beef and white for chicken or fish. Besides some people don’t like reds - and some don’t like whites - so venture outside the box and dine on a new wine. ut

dining best iN st. louis

Uptown’s picks for the best dining in St. Louis. From casual to elegant, international to American cuisine, seafood and steaks...they have it all!

best restauraNt iN hotel: the Grill at the ritZ-CarltoN

do you know “What the Chefs are eating”? come and enjoy an exciting adventure in dining. in addition to our regular menu, our chef andreas edlbauer has created “what the chefs are eating menu. savor our fourcourse tasting menu from the grill, $59 per person, or paired with wine, $89 per person. Unleash your foodie side and make your reservation today. for reservations call 314 719-1433

*for a larger gathering, experience the city's largest dine-in wine cellar, the Wine room at the ritz-Carlton to inquire about menu pricing and available dates,call our catering department at (314) 719-1406.

100 Carondelet Plaza, st. louis | 314.863.6300 www.ritzcarlton.com

best restauraNt With WiNe bar: balabaN's awards from st. louis Magazine and wine spectator give balaban's wine cellar & tapas bar solid credentials for best restaurant with wine bar. the bistro also hits the mark this month as the best place for parties and events. balaban’s new private rooms with state of the art audio visual equipment include space for 80 seated, 100 for cocktails, or two groups, if divided. the expansion also carved the intimate wine room, private space for two to six tastefully and intriguingly lined with balaban’s library wines, wines from the original award-winning café balaban cellar. these wines drink well at balaban’s retail prices.

1772 Clarkson at baxter, Chesterfield, Mo | 636.449.6700 www.balabanswine.com | www.selectwineonline.com

best thai: addie's thai house

located in chesterfield plaza at the intersection of olive boulevard and woodsmill road, addie's thai house is a distinctive, full service restaurant that offers authentic thai cuisine at moderate prices in an elegant setting. the interesting menu features authentic thai favorites like curries, flavorful soups, stir fry, meat and seafood dishes, as well as vegetarian fare. specialty dishes set addie’s apart. the restaurant has been recognized for serving the best panang curry in our area. the full bar offers thai food friendly refreshments like the original singapore sling. whether for lunch, dinner or a special occasion, you’ll dine in siamese splendor at addie’s.

13441 olive blvd., Chesterfield, Mo 63017 314-469-1660 | addiesthaihouse.com

best steaks: the teNderloiN rooM

the tenderloin room at the chase hotel in the historic central west end has a rich history and is a favorite st. louis dining tradition. the management of this elegant gourmet restaurant has passed from tommy karagiannis to his son and daughter-in-law, dino and Jules karagiannis. the tenderloin room has the ambiance of the most elegant restaurants from a bygone era. specialties include their signature pepperloin a la tenderloin, rack of lamb, stuffed filet, veal chops, and a wide array of succulent seafood such as lobster, shrimp scampi and dover sole. enjoy the finest imported wines from an award-winning wine list. reservations are recommended. .

232 North kingshighway 314-361-1900 | www.tenderloinroom.com

best bistro: roxaNe's aMeriCaN bistro

roxane's american bistro in clayton wins great reviews for its eclectic urban ambiance, creative cuisine and awesome drinks. there's an extensive menu at roxane's with signature specialties including fabulous starters, entrees, pizzas, gourmet sandwiches, and tantalizing pastas. don't forget about our delectable desserts like our brioche bread pudding with spice rum sauce. roxane's bar and restaurant is one of clayton's most popular hot spots. bring your friends and family to roxane's and indulge in a truly eclectic and unique eating experience. Now open for lunch on saturday. happy hour 3-6 with drinks specials and half price starters.

12 North Meramec avenue, Clayton, Mo 314.721.7700 | www.roxaneonmeramec.com

best bed & breakFast: h.s. Clay house

h s clay house bed and breakfast in scenic augusta owners leigh and alan buehre have taken their years of training and experience in the hospitality industry to transform their historic home, built in 1885, into an elegant retreat near st. louis. after a relaxing night, guests are treated to alan's multi-course gourmet breakfasts featuring fresh fruit, baked goods, and ever changing main dishes--some from his classical training, some creative new approaches to favorites. the holidays bring the augusta christmas walk, and in the month of february you can experience the area’s most romantic seven course valentine’s dinner at the h s clay house. come visit to celebrate a special event, or to surprise someone with a quick escape from the everyday. they welcome you to their home, and they hope to see you around their table soon.

219 Public, augusta, Mo. 314-504-4203 | www.hsclayhouse.com

best CrePes: City CoFFeehouse & CrÈPerie

ooh, la, la! it's all about traditional french crepes, whether savory or sweet. these very thin pancakes come stuffed with enticingly fresh combinations for breakfast, brunch, lunch or dessert. over forty different crepes are offered, from french style to st. louis inspired delights. customers to this parisian inspired cafÈ can actually watch their choices being prepared. crepes come filled with eggs, bacon or ham and gruyere at breakfast time. for lunch, try them with honey ham, fresh asparagus spears, fresh spinach and havarti cheese with hollandaise sauce. for dessert, enjoy them filled with delicious nutella chocolate and fresh strawberries, bananas and pecans. italian made espresso machines keep coffee cups filled with aromatic brews. come enjoy a bit of paris at st. louis' original crÈperie. cast si bon!

36 N. brentwood blvd., Clayton 314.862.2489 | www.citycoffeeandcreperie.com

starter Wasabi tuNa

best Casual diNiNG: harry’s doWNtoWN

harry’s downtown is the perfect place to relax after work. it’s renowned for having one of the best outdoor areas in st. louis. the view of st. louis’ skyline, the arch and Union station is magnificent. guests are able to enjoy dJ music with live shows by the best musicians around. happy hour is Monday through friday from 4:00 to 7:00 offering drink and appetizer specials. no wonder everyone’s wild about harry’s. perfect for parties, wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners, birthday parties, and business Meetings. now open horizon’s boutique night club and event space.

2144 Market street 314.421.6969 | www.harrysrestaurantandbar.com

best burGers: blueberry hill

blueberry hill is open every day of the year! home for the holidays –meet up with everyone here! this st. louis landmark is filled with pop culture memorabilia including the simpsons, toy story, chuck berry, the beatles, nelly, star wars, jukeboxes, lunch boxes and toys. voted #1 restaurant bar and #1 hamburger, blueberry hill is also famous for jerk chicken, vegetarian specials, trout almondine, homemade soups, chili, salads, sandwiches and breakfast all day. a superb beer selection is featured along with darts, pinballs, video games and a photo booth. plan a memorable event in one of the four party/meeting rooms, such as the new pac-Man room! live touring bands perform in the duck room. 6504 delmar in the loop

314.727.4444 | www.blueberryhill.com

best PiZZa: iMo's PiZZa

for over 46 years imo's has been serving st. louis its famous thin crust pizza with fresh ingredients and home made sauce. now the great taste of imo's pizza is available at its location in the heart of clayton. Just across the street from city hall, imo's is an easy walk from anywhere in clayton. imo's has it all - pizza, pasta, salads and sandwiches, plus fast delivery within clayton, richmond heights, University city, brentwood and parts of ladue. hungry pizza fanatics can select from a variety of specialty pizzas; imo's deluxe pizza, Meat lovers, veggie, bbQ chicken or pick your favorite toppings and build your own. remember imo's provides catering for any size event. give imo's a call and plan your holiday party now or request a catering Menu.

dine-in • Carry-out • delivery • Catering • Convenient on site Parking 23 N. bemiston., Clayton ) 314.862.4667 • www.claytonimos.com

best diNer: tiFFaNy's oriGiNal diNer

a 50 year old original diner located in the heart of Maplewood. serving the best breakfast in town, eggs, omelets, french toast, belgium waffles, biscuits and gravy and their famous homemade hash browns. breakfast is available 24 hours a day. desserts are also available from pie oh My a neighboring bakery. not in the mood for breakfast they also serve sandwiches and platters. yoUr choice, yoUr way, all day, all night new to tiffany’s diner now serving alcohol and beer til 1:30 am.

free wi fi and internet- atM on site

7402 Manchester rd. at sutton 314.644.0929

best deli: ProtZel's deli

three generations of the protzel family have served the finest in traditional Jewish deli for over 58 years. known for "the finest corned beef - anywhere", prepared fresh daily from their secret recipe, protzel's delicatessen also features fresh roasted turkey, beef and succulent pastrami among many other meats and freshly prepared soups and salads. additionally, you will find fresh hand cut lox and other smoked fishes along with bagels and Jewish rye bread. other delicacies include legendary homemade chicken soup with matzo balls, a variety of savory knishes, kreplach, kishke and more. all items are prepared for dine-in or take-out and catering is available. voted rft best deli 2011.

7608 Wydown boulevard, st. louis, Mo 314.721.4445 | www.protzelsdeli.com

best PaN latiN: Maya CaFÉ

Maya café has been serving pan-latin cuisine that includes central and south america, spain, portugal and the caribbean for ten years. the hand squeezed "best in st. louis" margaritas are just a warm up to the five time sauce Magazine readers choice award winning food. enjoy your dining in one of Maya's eclectic dining areas designed by local artist bill christman or outside on a retired Michigan fishing trawler. whether it's a table for one or private party, every occasion is special at the Maya. Music every friday and saturday evening and every wednesday st. louis' best blues musicians perform at the house party Jam. come in and see why this unique eatery is so loved. viva el Maya.

2726 sutton blvd., Maplewood, Mo 314.781.4774 | www.mayacafestl.com

best iNdiaN CuisiNe - house oF iNdia

savor the exotic cuisine at house of india, where you'll enjoy delicious entrees with a masterful blend of aromatic spices. the award-winning menu offers savory curry dishes, kormas and grilled kabobs. house of india favorites are lamb, chicken and seafood as well as fifteen different vegetarian entrees. enjoy freshly-baked indian breads and select from fine wines and beers. house of india is a unique venue for your next party or corporate event. or, have your party catered by house of india. carry out is also available. house of india's authentic indian cuisine is truly the spice of life.

8501 delmar boulevard, st. louis, Mo 314.567.6850 | www.hoistl.com

best CeltiC restauraNt: the sCottish arMs

the scottish arms, situated in the historic central west end, is a mustvisit for authentic scottish cuisine. signature dishes you'll want to savor are the fish and chips, fried haddock, iron kilt steak and bangers 'n' squeeks. select from more than 100 single malt whiskeys and twentytwo domestic and european beers. the scottish arms' handcrafted bar and outdoor patio also make dining a unique experience. enjoy a taste of european ambiance and scottish hospitality at the scottish arms.

8 south sarah st., st. louis, Mo 314.535.0551 www.thescottisharms.com

&

by CourtNey broWN

Cut, Color, Carat, Clarity CaMeras

what do cameras and gemstones have in common besides their flash? Just ask Curt Parker. The St. Louis native has turned his passions for photography and jewelry design into profitable careers.

The only son of a well-traveled businessman and a loving, easygoing mother Curt enjoyed a modest childhood, filled with adventure and exploration. Growing up in a two-bedroom house in South St. Louis, Curt shared a room with his older sister until he was nine years old. After the arrival of a younger sister, Curt vowed not to share a room with two girls, and decided to move into the detached garage. Initially, Curt's mother was amused by such a declaration from her nine-year-old son, and thought that surely he would be moving back inside the house once summer ended. However, when cooler temperatures failed to force Curt from his new 'home' in the family's garage back into the house, she knew that her son was not kidding around. Even when the lights went off inside the house, Curt would stay awake for many hours to explore the world around him. Given his

innate sense of curiosity, coupled with profound ambition, Curt was destined to be an entrepreneur. Around the same time as he moved into the garage, Curt began his first business endeavor. From the age of nine until he left for college, Curt financially earned money by repairing scooters and lawnmowers.

Fresh out of college, Curt worked as a parts manager for a car carrier company. It was during this time that he decided he wanted to purchase a diamond ring, but did not believe he could afford to do so with his income at the time. This desire temporarily waned until Curt saw another jeweler, Nick Kunzleman, make a ring. Curt thought to himself 'that is certainly something I could do', and he did just that. Nick Kunzleman, who was beyond pleased when he saw the ring Curt had created, offered Curt a job. After working for Kunzleman for one year, Curt made the decision

toP: Curt Parker today aboVe: youNG Curt Parker oN the other side oF the CaMera's leNs

to start his own jewelry store with his wife Elizabeth.

Soon after, Curt Parker Jewelers was opened. Curt credits a growing and loyal client base with the success of his jewelry business. In the beginning, Curt produced all of his creations by hand. As his business continues to thrive and new technologies are introduced, Curt invests in highly specialized equipment that improves the quality of his breathtaking pieces.

Curt's career as a photographer took off simultaneously with the construction on 40/64. Since Curt anticipated that the impending road closures and traffic problems would deter clients from visiting his store, he sought ways to bring Curt Parker Jewelers to his clients. Curt believed that improving his website would be the best way to do this. In order to make his jewelry marketable on the store's website, Curt would have to showcase his pieces in a way that would make the client feel as if they were looking into the glass display cases in the store. With that, Curt made the decision to purchase a camera to photograph his jewelry for the store's website. Curt's passion for photography expanded beyond jewelry into the realm of fashion when a friend invited Curt to photograph local fashion models at the Artist's Guild. Through travelling across the country to photograph fashion shows and shoot for various magazines, Curt keeps his passion alive.

Curt aspires to be the best at whatever he pursues. He is inspired by all things beautiful, and the variety of people, places and things to photograph, and driven by his innate curiosity. Seeing his clients happy and having fun brings Curt immense fulfillment. Although he believes that his work and life are intertwined, and claims to work 24 hours a day, Curt always finds time to spend with his loved ones. Appreciating nature, seeing the world, and spoiling those who mean the most to him are simply a part of Curt's job. ut

Curt Parker PhotoGraPhs Caroli oF CW Couture

beloW: a disPlay oF eleGaNCe iN Nature iN this

Photo by Curt Parker leFt: Curt Parker JeWelers

riNGs FroM

Curt Parker's MilleNNiuM ColleCtioN

aloha

Hawaii

by liNda sPall

Aloha! Why do we have such a warm feeling when we hear “Aloha”? Why do we feel so welcome and so genuinely accepted and yes, loved. “Alo” means “presence”. “Ha” means “breathe”. “Aloha” literally means “the presence of breath”. One life is exchanging love and respect to another life. This is the spirit of Hawaii, the “Aloha” state. Who doesn’t want to go to Hawaii in their lifetime? Ever since I saw the handsome Gardner McCay sailing the Polynesian seas in “Adventures In Paradise” I was hooked. Whether for a honeymoon, an anniversary, a veteran with the dream to visit Pearl Harbor or simply a state on your bucket list, Hawaii is a dream destination. The best part? You don’t need a passport!

United, Delta, US Air, American all fly with connections to Hawaii out of St. Louis with air time of 9 or 10 hours. Since the long lamented days of TWA, we have no non-stop flights. Honolulu is the major airport and is the hub for interisland flights and upon landing, with the help of your travel agent, your trip in paradise can begin with a lei greeting , a necklace ring of sweet smelling hibiscus flowers, a symbol of welcome and love.

The state of Hawaii consists of hundreds of islands spread over 1,500 miles. The "main islands" are Kauai, Oahu, Lanai, Maui and the island of Hawaii (also called "The Big Island"). Each has a distinct personality and features which are unique from the others and depending on your taste and idea of the perfect vacation you will want to do your research. If choosing one island is too difficult, you may opt to cruise all the four islands by sailing with a cruise lines who visits each one. You most likely will land in Oahu, the home of Honolulu, Waikiki, Pearl Harbor and Diamond Head which is a 760 foot extinct volcanic cone. Honolulu is the capitol of the state of Hawaii. Waikiki is the tourist district of Honolulu next to Diamond Head and attracts millions of visitors every year. Most of the hotel rooms on Oahu are located in Waikiki which has nightlife, tourist attractions and hotels by the score either on the beach or in close proximity. Pearl Harbor offers a visitors center, the USS Arizona Memorial and the US Missouri battleship with WWII museums and tours. Spend the day at the 42 acres Polynesian Cultural Center to experience a luau, evening show and a canoe ride that winds through Polynesian villages or visit the

Bishop Museum or the Dole Plantation.

Clint Eastwood, Oprah, Willie Nelson and Owen Wilson are just a few of the celebrities that live on the island of Maui, the Magic Isle. Known for luxury resorts, waterfalls and lush, green landscapes, Maui is host to Lahaina Harbor where you can whale watch, the Maui Ocean Center Aquarium, Kaanapali’s beautiful beaches and Haleakala National Park surrounded with coastal caves, and towns such as Hana and Wailea. Haleakala is a dormant volcano. You can bike, hike or horseback ride or even camp at the park and witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.

The Big Island of Hawaii is the largest of the islands with wide-open spaces and natural landscapes, black sand beaches, volcanos and waterfalls. Snorkle along the Kona coastline and view endangered sea turtles, fish and dolphins at Pawai Bay which is a protected marine preserve, visit Hilo’s Farmers Market in downtown Hilo , the farms of fresh fruit, coffee and orchids. Walk along the rim of the volcano with a 11 mile hike that begins at the Kilauea Visitor Center, complete with steam vents, rain forest and

dessert or perhaps, go swimming with the gentle Manta Rays at night.

Kauai is the Island of Discovery. Here you find the Waimea Canyon which is known as “the Grand Canyon of the Pacific”. You will see panoramic views of the crags and towering rock that will stay in your memory and heart. If you are not a hiker, take a boat or a helicopter tour, but don’t miss this beautiful scenery. Visit a sugar plantation or one of the tropical botanical gardens. Kauai also has 50 miles of incredible white sandy beaches.

Lanai is known as the “Pineapple Island” In the early 1800’s sailors brought the pineapple home to New England, where a fresh pineapple displayed on the porch meant that the sailor was home from foreign ports and ready to welcome visitors. When pineapples were served at any meal, it was an expensive display and therefore also contributed to the concept of pineapple symbolizing hospitality. In June of this year, Oracle CEO Larry Ellison bought 98 percent of the island.

With 3,000 residents living on its 141 square miles of pristine beaches, red dirt roads, and largely undeveloped land, the Hawaiian island of Lanai doesn’t even have a traffic light. This is the island for privacy and local character with resorts and views and colloquial atmosphere.

Where do you begin to look for your perfect island? Blue Sky Tours, Apple Vacations, Pleasant Holidays, Classic Hawaiian and Delta Vacations are just a few of the travel companies that offer flight, hotel and car packages to Hawaii. But don’t try it on your own. Your local travel agent can help you find the perfect island(s), the hotel or resort, the right activities and the best way to book your perfect dream vacation to this warm, welcoming, “Aloha” state of Hawaii. Mahalo! ut

making dreams come true...

fastlane in the

by WeNdy sChlesiNGer

"My business is about relationships, sitting down with somebody, getting to know them, and finding out how I can help them achieve their dream and make that dream a reality," says Danny Baker, President and Founder of Exotic Motors Midwest (EMMW). At just 28, Baker and his staff sell and service Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Porsches, AstonMartins, McLarens - whatever you want - to make dreams come true.

To find you the car of your dreams, EMMW frequently performs “locates” (finding a specifically desired car) for customers, and arranges transportation eveywhere from Kansas City to Malaysia. While all of that may summon images of Tom Cruise in Rainman, the reality is the company is built around small business owners and professionals in the midwest.

Baker respects the confidentiality of all his clients but if you happen to see a shiny, chrome EMMW license plate frame on some sexy car around town (an ever growing

number) you’ll know where the car came from. People assume their customers are high-profile athletes and celebrities, and some are, but for the most part, as Baker describes them, “they get up, they work forty to sixty hours a week just like anybody else, they’ve made a decent living for themselves, they’re married, they’ve got kids and they just enjoy cars. Our customers are not interested in keeping up with the Jones’s, they are simply passionate about cars.”

Driving down Manchester Road in Rock Hill, you might not even notice the modest but impressive retail showroom. (The service department is around back and is set up similar to a walkout style basement with a large garage door.) When you step inside, however, you realize you’re literally in a “dream factory”. Surrounded by intense red Ferraris and pearl yellow Lamborghinis with powdery-smooth, leather cockpits, it’s like an ode to testosterone. But is that a bad thing? Baker’s business philosophy is that the cars will sell themselves but it’s the relationship that keeps the customers coming in and coming back. Consequently, his goal is to make the whole process as easy and enjoyable as possible. He keeps his overhead low, gives the customer a fair price, includes all the paperwork, manuals, keys etc. that a person needs to sell the car again, along with a clean CAR-FAX report and a 100% money back guarantee. With customized, tailored financing, customers can lease, finance, or even pay cash. The cars come from an extensive network of dealers, private individuals and collectors. To keep owners’ dreams alive, they’ve also added a Service Department. Prior to that, Baker was forced to send his customers’ cars to Chicago or Dallas for quality service

work. With highly trained staff, stateof-the-art technology and the industry’s best electronic and diagnostic equipment, EMMW now services cars from all over the Midwest and even nationwide! “Even in our first month of having the service department fully operational,” Baker says, “we had previous sales customers from Colorado, Ohio and Kansas send us their cars because they know we would take good care of them.” Surprisingly, Baker explains, the cost of maintaining one of these exotic cars is not much more than that of a BMW or Mercedes.

For a glimpse of a few of these dream cars, you can attend “Napoli’s Night” on November 15th, 2012 at Cafe Napoli in Clayton. For $40 guests are treated to appetizers, open bar, door prizes, music and a chance to visit the dream-mobiles up close and personal. Proceeds benefit St. Louis Crisis Nursery, a regular recipient of EMMW and Baker’s generosity.

“What we’re trying to say to the local community is it’s OK to buy this car that’s been your dream or your passion. We’re here to make it easy, affordable and fun.” In fact he makes it so easy that he routinely has customers call and say, for example, “I want a Range Rover for my wife, a white one, brand new” and they just put it in the driveway. Hmmm, never happened to me but dreams do come true. ut

in the

what's newlou?

by WeNdy sChlesiNGer

So many new choices this issue from babies to boutiques to BBQ.

Manhattan comes to middle america with the opening of EGG by Susan Lazar (9757 Clayton Road, in the old Jules location, 314-503-0092, egg-baby.com.) With sister stores in Manhattan and Brooklyn, EGG baby clothes store has ventured into our neck of the woods with adorable, designer duds for babies and kids up to size 6. While they’re in 500 boutiques and stores across the country this is the only store outside New York to exclusively carry their line. The emphasis is placed on natural fabrics with clean, simple designs, that wash well and last. They also feature an organic line and a charity line along with gift items, toys and accessories.

Webster has added another chic boutique to its roster of destination venues in the name of Paisley Boutique (233 W. Lockwood, Webster Groves, 314-475-3443, xopaisley.com). Owner Stacie Swederska decribes the comfortable setting she’s created as more your best friend’s closet, rather than a store. You’ll find yourself surrounded by beautiful clothes and accessories with everchanging styles that emphasis classic lines with a touch of trend. She’s known for jeans (size 0 to 16) and swears she “can make any woman’s butt look good.” The store features lines like Lilla P, Greylin and 88 Orange. Check out their online sites to see their great selection of outerwear - better yet pop on in. With evening hours (M, T, W til 7, and Th til 8, Fri and Sat til 6 and Sundays during the holidays) she makes it easy to shop. Besides, there’s always a party, whether it’s manicures and mimosas or live bands on the patios.

Choice, (7807 Clayton Road, Clayton, freshchoicestl.com) that cute, pink storefront that’s been taunting us by looking so enticing for several months is finally open. Inside you’ll

find organic delicacies inspired by the owners’ mediterranean roots. Soups, salads, sandwiches, desserts and mediterranean dishes are availabe for dine-in, lunch boxes or catering. Their extensive organic, garden provides fruits, vegetables and herbs used in some of the dishes. Owners Rouhani and Abady also own Blackberry catering that delivers meals to schools without a kitchen.

oceano Bistro (16125 Chesterfield Parkway West, Chesterfield, 636-536-9404, oceanobistro.com) has brought it’s fresh seafood and casual but elegant surroundings to Chesterfield. Take advantage of the last few days of lovely weather to enjoy their outdoor patio replete with waterfall. They offer the same luscious menu as the Clayton location with choices like Hamachi Avacado Ceviche or, my favorite, the Umami Kobe Sliders. With Happy Hour specials Monday through Friday, this is a great addition to your tour of watering holes.

Here’s to health and prosperity for all in the New Year! ut

k. hall

eGG by susaN laZar

Paisley boutiQue

nov/dec2012

ARoUnD ToWn

LAURA KATHLEEN JEWLERY SHOW AT ALBARRE JEWELERS

we invite you to visit albarre Jewelers on thursday, november 29 from 4 pm to 8 pm for a preview of the laura kathleen Jewelry collection designed exclusively for albarre Jewelers. we are located at 9711 clayton road in ladue. for more information. please call 314-997-1707 www.albarre.com

MACY'S PRESENTS ZOOTINI 2012

november 17, st. louis zoo from 8 to 12, 21 yrs age and older. a party filled with creative cocktails, live entertainment by fat pocket & dJ needles, raffle and game room! for more info visit www.stlzoo.org

HOLIDAY CHAMPAGNE STROLL

november 18, clayton rd. from brentwood blvd. to hanley rd. free guest can expect warm holiday greetings, refreshments and special activities as they stroll this charming holiday setting. for more info call 314-721-4224

SKATE WITH FROSTY & ALL THAT GLITTERS

december 7, 231 s. brentwood blvd. kickoff winter in style with frosty the snowman! shaw park ice rink will be open to the public with free admission, skate rental, and hot chocolate! visit www.clayton.mo.org

FIRST NIGHT ST. LOUIS

december 31, the grand center district - a "fanta-sea" of the arts transforms grand center's streets and stages for this year's first night 2011 celebration. for more info visit www.grandcenter.org

SPoRTS

RAMS HOME GAMES

nov. 18 vs. new york Jets

dec. 2 vs. san francisco 49ers

dec. 16 vs. Minnesota vikings

BLUES HOME GAMES

nov. 6 vs. stars

nov. 8 vs. blue Jackets

nov. 17 vs. predators

nov. 23 vs. islanders

novl 25 vs. capitals

nov. 29 vs. blue Jackets

dec. 1 vs. senators

dec. 2 vs. flames

dec. 12 vs. wild

dec. 14 vs. flames

dec. 15 vs. blackhawks

dec. 18 vs. coyotes

dec. 23 vs. canucks

dec. 26 vs. blue Jackets

dec. 29 vs. flyers

THE FABULOUS FOX

nov. 1 - so you think you can dance noc. 2 - Jackson browne nov. 3 -Joe bonamassa nov. 8 - celtic thunder nov. 10 - straight no chaser nov. 11 - Mythbusters nov. 20 - dec. 2 - blue Man group dec. 12 - 31 - wicked

PEABODY OPERA HOUSE

nov. 8 - 17 - radio city christmas spectacular starring the rockettes

THE REPERTORY THEATRE

oct. 10 - nov. 4 - daddy long legs nov. 28 - dec. 23 - the foreigner

SAINT LOUIS ART MUSEUM

sept. 28 - Jan. 13 - focus on the collection: drawn in copper, italian prints in the age of barocci oct. 21 - Jan. 20 - federico barocci: renaissance Master

SCOTTRADE CENTER

nov. 1 - Madonna nov. 20 - carrie Underwood dec. 27 - trans-siberian orchestra

SHELDON CONCERT HALL

nov. 2 - natalie MacMaster nov. 9 - artsounds! sylvia Mcnair, "sketches of new york" nov. 10 - brasil guitar duo nov. 14 - the Magnetic fields nov. 16 - carolina chocolate drops nov. 27 - beth tuttle dec. 1 - the Marcus roberts trio dec. 5 - team stages dec. 9 - preservation hall Jazz band creole christmas dec. 11 - 12 - deborah sharn christmas song dec. 18 - -Melanie lina

TOUHILL PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

nov. 2 - arianna string Quartet nov. 3 - celtic festival featuring black 47 nov. 7 - University Jazz ensemble concert featuring special guest artist denise thimes nov. 8 - 10 - festival of dance nov. 9 - 10 - pilobolus nov. 12 - University singers & vocal point nov. 14 - University percussion & afro-cuban ensemble nov. 30 - kyo-shin-an arts presents kaMMerrakU dec. 2 - UMsl's Jazz for the holidays dec. 7 - 9 - the ambassadors of harmony: sounds of the season dec. 14 - 23 - the nutcracker dec. 15 - 16 - sugar plum fairy luncheon