Rising from One Brickell, wit h s tunning views of Bisc ayne Bay, Miami River, and t he Downtown sk yline – Viceroy bring s a new level of culture, s t yle, and luxur y to t he hear t of Miami Now Und er Cons t ruc tion – D eliver y Early 2026
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Black Eyed Peas frontman will.i.am showcases his artistic excellence via a new medium: tech
Introducing CARBONE VINO, Major Food Group’s latest dining destination in Coconut Grove 23 ART BASEL
24 HAUTE BEAUTY
This holiday season, Dior invites guests to the grand Ball of Dreams at the Château de Versailles and an exclusive look inside the Dior Ball of Dreams pop-up boutique at Aventura Mall; fast track your skincare with HydraFacial; and the story behind Sei Tu Bella Aesthetics 30
The 2024 Haute holiday
32 HAUTE FASHION
Get ready for après ski season with the new LV SKI collection; Miami’s Isabela Grutman and Vita Sidorkina are festive in Fendi; discover the Louis Vuitton Cruise 2025 collection that pays tribute to Barcelona; host the ultimate Dior holiday soirée this season; Louis Vuitton’s Cruise 2025 collection takes the streets of Manhattan; and an inside look of the new Louis Vuitton 57th Street temporary flagship
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104 HAUTE TIME
A. Lange & Söhne celebrates 30 years of the Lange 1 with four limited editions and Patek Philippe debuts a new collection for the first time in 25 years
108 HAUTE JOAILLERIE
Discover our exclusive editorial, Animal Instincts, featuring Cartier’s Trinity novelties and the Haute Joaillerie holiday gift guide
116 HAUTE TRAVEL
Bucket list adventures for the one percent
122 HAUTE MOVES
How to experience the white glove service that Rolls-Royce does so well
HAUTE PARTNERS
146 How amp will change your approach to fitness
147 Design duo FormaFantasma is creating a sustainable paradise in Champagne in partnership with PerrierJouët with Cohabitare
148 Redefining luxury car investment: a conversation with MCQ Markets co-founder Lachlan DeFrancesco
150 The drive to excellence: oneon-one with Douglas Burks Sr., founder of Burks Luxury Chauffeur Services
151 HAUTE SCENE
The hottest Haute Living events of the season
AFTER MAKING SOME SERIOUS INNOVATIONS IN THE WORLD OF TECH, WILL.I.AM IS READY TO START A WHOLE NEW ERA.
BY LAURA SCHREFFLER
here aren’t many things will.i.am hasn’t done in his 49 years, nor hats he hasn’t worn: creative innovation advisor, futurist, multi-platinumselling and nine-time Grammy-winning musical artist, tech entrepreneur, entrepreneur, founder, CEO, coach (on The Voice UK edition for 13 seasons), host (of “The FYI Show” radio program on SiriusXM), investor (the FYI Web 3.0 creativity and productivity tool, automotive, consumer-tech, fashion, food and beverage, software, and telecom), the first F1 Artist in Residence in history, humanitarian, two-time Super Bowl Halftime Show performer, Emmy and CLIO Award winner, Harvard graduate, and now — in his own words — “operationist.” The reason for this incredibly definitive epithet is that the Black Eyed Peas frontman is fully charting his own course, steering his own wheels, and becoming his own boss. He is calling the shots, and not just creating history — but creating the future at the same time.
That being said, on December 17, MBUX Sound Drive will make its U.S. market debut, his industry-first partnership with Mercedes-AMG that delivers a groundbreaking interactive music experience. The technology uses software that allows music to react to the way the car is being driven, creating a harmonious relationship between motion and melody. This turns the car into a virtual instrument, transforming an already exceptional driving experience into an emotional, musical journey. Using a suite of sensors and advanced software, MBUX Sound Drive interprets various driving dynamics — such as recuperation, acceleration, steering, and braking — and converts them into musical expressions, allowing the driver to fully engage in real time.
Earlier this year, will.i.am launched RAiDiO.FYI, a first-of-its-kind AI-infused, interactive, and conversational media platform that transforms radio as we know it into a new dimension, connecting consumers deeper with the music, talk radio, and cultural content they love, effectively managing to evolve a 110-year-old medium into something new and fresh.
Haute Living sat down with this jack of all trades — who not only recently graduated from Harvard Business School’s prestigious Executive Education Owners/Presidents Management Program, but who is also now a bona fide case study for his alma mater — about his tech innovations, his early work as a Futurist, and why he will never give up on music (case in point: the Black Eyed Peas are launching their first ever Las Vegas residency, “Black Eyed Peas: 3008 The Las Vegas Residency,” at PH Live at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino on February 15).
Let’s talk about your drive to innovate, first in music and arts, and now in the tech world. How is innovating in tech different, and why has this become your primary focus?
I’ve been working in this field since 2012; I started my first company over a decade ago. And the reason why I love it so much is because I worked I would say satellited, meaning orbiting around — with Apple, helping them. We were honored and blessed to be able to play a role in the first iPod and iTunes commercials, helping them sell that, and then the iMac. Around 2006, I started working with Beats Electronics. Then by 2007, I told Jimmy Iovine that we should sell; we should make our own hardware and use our music to sell our own stuff. By 2008, we had a prototype of Beats by Dre. So, I was a part of Beats from the beginning as the third equity shareholder, and then, when we sold Beats to Apple [in 2014 for $3 billion], I told myself, I want to start my own company. I started my first company in 2012, an AI team.
At that time, I was into natural language understanding and processing, and machine learning. Back then, it was advanced, but compared to now, it was like high school. So, I invested in AI companies early on, like OpenAI, Anthropic, Hugging Face, and Runway. Compared to making music or just doing creative work or videos, it’s more creative, because you are still thinking in a rhyme scheme type of way; things have to have some type of emotional resonance. I’ve been fearless in the past as far as coming up with ideas and pitching ideas to companies, and that’s why I love to work in the tech space. It provides hyperdimensional creativity. While music is great, it’s fun and allows me to rinse out my emotions, it’s a three-dimensional creative realm; technology is like six dimensions of creativity.
Let’s talk about MBUX Sound Drive: the focus behind it, how you created it, and where you want it to go.
Before, you got into a car to go from point A to point B and songs were played. Those songs that were played in the car, somebody sat in a studio for hours to close them into a capture. The only thing you could do was press pause, rewind, forward, and shuffle; you no longer could engage with the song and all of its components. It was left and right, and maybe center or surround sound. That’s it; it’s a captured moment. But with MBUX Sound Drive, you can truly engage with it, because we have more components to the song; it’s no longer just an audio file. It’s a multi-track file where the car is now the instrument. The car is now the DJ, and the car is now the turntables, and you are the DJ. When you drive from zero to five miles an hour, the car is going to behave differently. If you’re going ten miles an hour and you hit a bump and turn left, the song is going to behave differently. Every time you stop at a red light and a stop sign, it’s a slightly different experience. With MBUX Sound Drive, you’re able to capture all of these colorful moments through the world of music. From point A to point B, you’re scoring your route. Every route will render a new version of your favorite song, all done simply by driving.
How did you come up with that?
I was in a work session with Mercedes-Benz, and they were like, “We want you to come to a work session to vibe, see what we could come up with — with your vision — and what we are doing with sound and the electric vehicle.” I thought, “All right, cool.” So, I flew to Stuttgart, and they showed me their electric car. I worked at Intel in a Futurist department for three years and the rule of future casting is that if you have an opinion or criticism without a way to fix it, plausibly address it, and press pause on criticism or opinion... because the world is noisy. So, now I’m in studio applying this rule. First note, I had a criticism. Then, we took off. We were going down a street and we turned, banking left. Second criticism. Then we were going down a highway; we passed through a tunnel — third problem. And then we went through a very tight street, fourth issue. I wrote my notes down while we were in the car. I then had to look at each one of them and apply solutions to the issues I had pointed out. Number one, that sounds real, but in a car that has an engine, the sound is not coming from the speakers; it’s coming from the front. The direction of the sound is wrong, and the sound is not just heard, it’s felt; I’m just hearing sounds. Two, if I’m listening to a song in the key of G and yours is F flat, that’s going to cause dissonance, and the dissonance is going to overwork your speaker. I have a solution to that. We’re driving down the street and the banking left in a car that has an
engine in it: you’re going to hear gravity pushing down on gears: I have the solution to that. And so on. I knew I could fix all of these things, and more. And so, two years ago, I was flying back home from that meeting, and I looked at the city. I thought, “Wow, look at this grid.” Every city is a grid, right? I can take a city and map music to it so that when people are driving, they use the city as their metronome, or they use their city as their composition palette. Using this architecture, I have a whole new composition engine. I have a whole new way people can compose. We built this system in two years and now we’re launching MBUX Sound Drive across the entire Mercedes-AMG fleet starting December 17.
What can we expect from the MBUX Sound Drive deployment to market?
I hear you have formed some partnerships with music labels, partners, and artists. What can we expect there?
We’re collaborating with Universal, Sony, and Warner Music. We got together with Hit Boy and made some songs from scratch. We also reimagined some Black Eyed Peas songs and Nile Rodgers gave us his freaking hits. It’s really wild to hear Chic in such an immersive, engaging, interactive way. It’s just unbelievable that we were able to manifest this idea, this dream, and that it’s now real.
What exactly is MBUX Sound Drive doing at Basel?
We’re celebrating the fact that MBUX Sound Drive is officially live and within cars that are off the assembly line, sitting on the floor of Mercedes dealerships, and soon to be driven by Mercedes-AMG owners. It’s not every day that a new music experience is thrown into our society to “dimensionalize” our music economy. It’s good for artists and it’s great for our industry — so this came at the right time. Streaming has flattened out: artists aren’t really making the type of money that they used to make when we sold records versus experienced streams. To have a whole new dimension to our economy and a way that artists can get creative and color our environment with sounds and rhythms is truly awesome.
You’re constantly innovating. Can you share a bit about RAiDiO.FYI?
I was at CES with Mercedes this year, and met a girl by the name of Supercar Blondie. She has this amazing blog where she showcases all the dopest cars. So, she comes and asks me to tell her about MBUX Sound Drive; she’s a passenger, and I’m driving her. I’m thinking she’s going to be like, “wow.” But I realized something during this demonstration: while the driver gets to hear the full sound, the passenger is not immersed in it; they’re just in the car listening to music, whereas the driver actually feels what’s happening firsthand. So, after I got out of the car with Supercar Blondie, I thought, We need to innovate somewhere else. I got back to the lab and told the team, “When I stop at a red light, I need to be able to talk to the AI and be like, ‘What’s happening? Why is there traffic right now? Give me a different route.’ I wanted to be able to do this over radio, because there hasn’t been a serious innovation in radio since SiriusXM, and radio is really an ally for artists. I wanted to innovate around it. I was thinking, “What if we could have a million people calling in to the station, talking to the DJ or the host, having a million conversations at the same time? We’ll have an AI host, a DJ, a curated selection of music.” It’s fostering critical thinking. We want dreamers. We want freaking critical thinkers. We want folks who have opinions, who are inquisitors, and people who are curious about the world and concerned about it as it unfolds. Let’s engage in this debate. Let’s do it in a place where you don’t have to worry about being judged, about being bullied, about sounding stupid. Critical thinking is the new woke.
Did Harvard help with that? What was your takeaway from your schooling there?
Harvard helped me organize my way of looking at the world; it helped me operationalize better. I’ve always been good at ideation to manifestation, but then, what about operation? It helped me sharpen that other tool in my cabinet.
Speaking of your cabinet, you wear many hats and have a variety of different accolades behind you. Is there one that you feel represents you the best currently?
When it comes to music, I was being creative in somebody else’s operation; it wasn’t my operation. I was a creative cog in the system that Universal owned, Interscope, Jimmy Iovine’s operation. I was the creative agent in that operation. And one would think, ‘just because you have success, musicians then have this ego.’ No, that’s not the way it works; if that’s your illusion, you’re going to have a rude awakening. If you’re lucky, you could move from this field, hop into an operation, have success in it, and then move to a different field... and then somebody else puts an operation together for you and leverages your name — but that’s still not a true operation. You just think it is because your ego is telling you that it’s you, but somebody else is doing it all, leveraging your magnet. But if you’re audacious like me, you want to be the operator. I don’t want to be relying upon somebody to operationalize my creativity. But the world is changing, and the only way to change with it is to get as much information as possible. So, I consider myself to be an operationist these days.
With tech so much at the forefront for you, why did you decide to do the “Black Eyed Peas 3008 – The Las Vegas Residency” next year? We wanted to do the Las Vegas residency because it allows us to do something that we’ve never done before. Once you’ve played stadiums, done arenas, theater tours, small bar tours, played the Grammys, the American Music Awards, the Brits — all the big gigs from the Super
Bowls to the World Cups — sent songs to Mars, done campaigns for the NBA, iPod, iTunes, and more, what else is there to do in the world of entertainment? We’ve never done a Vegas residency, so we thought, let’s do that. We know what happened when we put Fergie in the group — that really catapulted us to a different level, coupled with the songs that we wrote. You know, if Fergie was in the group and we didn’t have “Let’s Get It Started” and “Where Is the Love?” we wouldn’t be big. But the combination of big records and Fergie took us to a different level. Then, we added a new member to the group; we added an AI member, Vida. We had to look at the type of experiences fans were going to have, and what people would be curious about. I’m excited, because we’re going to be bringing the first AI residency to Vegas. And why not do it wild?
How do you want to be remembered in history books?
Not history: I don’t want to be known in history. I want to make the future. What do you hope your legacy will be then, with all that you’ve done in the arts, in tech, and in philanthropy? Legacy is cool. I like legacy because it’s like, the word ‘leg’ is actually in it, and that means you stood for something. Because without legs, you can’t stand for shit. I also love the word “speck.” The speck is so small. You need spectacles to inspect it. We’re all spectators — but what makes our species is specific, and it’s all those little specifications that make you special. And that’s what makes a spectacular person. But don’t make me specify which part of me you hear; it’s the specificity I just love. “Speck” is a dope ass word — and I get my kicks off of words, right? One day I thought, my name is William, ma. Everybody, all my black friends in school, their name is Jamal, Kamal, Darnell. I got William. I got a boring white name that I hated. So, I was like, “Ma, can I just call myself will.i.am?” It means I have will, I have the will, I am will, I have the will to do, to be whatever I want. I have willpower. Can I just call myself will.i.am? She said, “If that’s what you want to call yourself, sure.” And here I am.
Introducing CARBONE VINO, Major Food Group’s latest dining destination in Coconut Grove.
BY ADRIENNE FAUROTE
MAJOR FOOD GROUP (MFG), THE HOSPITALITY BRAND BEHIND Miami’s most coveted culinary hotspots, is preparing to unveil the ninth restaurant of its Miami repertoire: CARBONE VINO. Capturing the essence of the Italian saying, “Buon cibo, buon vino, buoni amici,” which translates to “good food, good wine, good friends,” VINO brings the joie de vivre of Italy’s classic enotecas to Miami’s Coconut Grove neighborhood this month. “We couldn’t be more thrilled to bring VINO to Coconut Grove, a neighborhood steeped in history and Floridian elegance,” says MFG co-founder Jeff Zalaznick.
As the name suggests, wine lovers are in for a treat. In a bold move that underscores MFG’s commitment to innovation, VINO will offer an unparalleled beverage experience, with a selection that includes rare wines that are typically reserved for full-bottle service and are now available by the glass. The beverage program, overseen by renowned experts Patrick Wert and John Slover, will feature over 600 incredibly rare wines with a rotating selection of by-the-glass offerings that promise something new on every visit and unexpected cellar surprises from the sommeliers.
To complement the robust wine program, the menu is teeming
with tradition as a nod to old-school Italian comfort food. Antipasti like zucchini fritti and zuppa di mussels with lamb sausage will start the dining experience, followed by nostalgic yet elevated dishes such as pumpkin agnolotti, pappardelle bolognese, and Vitello Osso Bucco. CARBONE classics like the spicy rigatoni and veal parmesan will also make an appearance. Finally, the desserts include indulgent Italian options like cannoli sundaes and CARBONE‘s iconic lemon cheesecake.
Chef Mario Carbone adds, “We’re introducing new dishes that feel both familiar and unexpected, inspired by years of refinement and our ongoing love affair with Italian cuisine.”
Designed by Bishop Design, VINO’s interior will exude a romantic, timeless charm with rich velvet drapes, gold-accented wallpaper, leather-upholstered banquettes, and intricately crafted ceilings. Unique to VINO, the main dining area, lounge, and private dining room are adorned with art curated by Vito Schnabel. From its extensive wine list to the curated Carbone-esque vibe, VINO is set to become a quintessential part of Coconut Grove’s dining scene, redefining luxury hospitality yet again.
THE HAUTE GUIDE TO ART BASEL MIAMI BEACH 2024.
BY ADRIENNE FAUROTE
AND JUST LIKE THAT, ANOTHER ART BASEL MIAMI BEACH season is upon us. As Miami’s vibrant hub for art and culture, the Miami Design District (MDD) will feature an impressive lineup of installations and exhibitions, including this year’s annual Design Commission, entitled Pearl Jam. The Miami Design District, in collaboration with Design Miami Curatorial Lab, presents Nicole Nomsa Moyo’s Pearl Jam, celebrating its 10th edition with an installation inspired by South Africa’s Ndebele tribe, featuring interactive life-size sculptures, giant pearls, and over 1,000 handcrafted ‘earrings’ made by indigenous Ndebele women. New Yorkbased artist Alteronce Gumby will debut his largest work to date, Living the Dream, a site-specific mural in the MDD, comprised of stained glass, gemstones, fossils, and mosaic tiles inspired by fauvism and his exploration of cosmic themes.
Another major moment for the MDD, the Craig Robins Collection in Miami, featuring over 1,500 contemporary art and design pieces, will showcase highlights, including works by Kai Althoff, Jana Euler, and recent acquisitions in its 2024-25 rehang at the Dacra headquarters.
Then, in true Miami Art Basel fashion, the luxury fashion houses are headed down south. Cartier will celebrate the 100th anniversary of its iconic Trinity collection with an immersive pop-up experience, featuring five distinct spaces embodying the collection’s history and cultural significance as well as a showcase of jewelry from the Cartier Collection. Around the corner, Gucci will unveil the Gucci Boule De Neige, a holiday-themed snow globe installation at Sweet Bird North Plaza in MDD. Finally, the newly expanded 6,700-square-foot Fendi boutique in MDD will reopen with a new Roman-inspired façade and interior design. For the new boutique, Fendi partnered with designer Lewis Kemmenoe for Design Miami to showcase a dual-material furniture collection, and a unique Peekaboo displayed at the fair as well as in the boutique’s windows.
This holiday season, Dior invites guests to the grand Ball of Dreams at the Château de Versailles. Celebrating the brand’s commitment to luxury craftsmanship, artist Pietro Ruffo has imagined exquisite, embellished designs for Dior’s year-end gifts. Explore Dior’s limited edition 2024 Trunk of Dreams Advent Calendar, which reveals 24 iconic creations behind its gilded doors. Each day offers delightful surprises, including perfumes, skincare, makeup, and the custom Bois des Rêves candle by Francis Kurkdjian, Dior Perfume creation director.
BY ADRIENNE FAUROTE
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CHRISTIAN DIOR PARFUMS
This holiday season, Dior Beauty returns to Aventura Mall with its Dior Ball of Dreams popup boutique, which will be open from November 3 to January 5. Inspired by Christian Dior’s appreciation for the Château de Versailles and the elegance of French costume balls, the boutique offers visitors an enchanting holiday experience filled with opulence. The space is adorned with golden motifs created by Italian artist Pietro Ruffo and illuminated by dazzling lights, creating a magical atmosphere. Upon entering, guests are welcomed by a stunning gilded Christmas tree that leads them into a magnificent Hall of Mirrors, showcasing Dior’s iconic perfumes, including J’adore, Miss Dior, and Sauvage, all crafted by Perfume creation director Francis Kurkdjian. To enhance the festive spirit, seasonal makeup looks designed by Peter Philips, Dior Makeup’s creative and image director, offer vibrant colors and luxurious textures.
The holiday wonder continues with La Collection Privée Christian Dior fragrances, displayed against luminous holiday fireworks to invite clients into a gilded gallery where exceptional pieces are showcased. Highlights include L’Or de J’adore by Jean-Michel Othoniel, the Miss Dior Mini Trunk by Eva Jospin, and the Sauvage Elixir x Baccarat Limited Edition, each embodying Dior’s exquisite craftsmanship. To further enhance the art of gifting, the boutique’s Gifting Atelier offers personalized consultation services, allowing clients to explore exclusive customization options and experience the joy of gifting in true Dior style.
BY DR. SARAH KHAN, ESTHETIC DOCTOR AND MEDICAL DIRECTOR OF ARA MED SPA IN BEVERLY HILLS, CA
THE HYDRAFACIAL IS A POPULAR, HYDRATING TREATMENT designed to refresh the skin through deep cleansing, extraction, and hydration. Designed to suit a range of skin types, it can be tailored to individual needs with options for targeted booster serums that address concerns like texture, dryness, and fine lines. Many people find it offers a gentle way to refresh the skin, leaving it with a smooth, natural-looking glow.
It is suitable for clients of all genders and ages, with all skin types and skin tones. The treatments are fast and effective and come in three treatment lengths of 30 to 60 minutes. Visible improvement in the skin is reported after just one treatment, and hydration can last from up to five to seven days. Regular, once-a-month treatments can result in improvement in fine lines, wrinkles, brown spots, and oily and congested skin.
In the first step of a HydraFacial, the skin is cleansed with a formula containing licorice root extract for antioxidant and brightening, phytic acid as a mild exfoliant, lactic acid as a gentle AHA exfoliant, and laminaria saccharina (algae) extract for skin soothing with antioxidant properties.
The second step is a chemical peel, applied with glycolic and salicylic acid in a low, medium, or high strength, customizable to each client. For sensitive skin, a gentler peel with the substitution of lactobionic and phytic acid can be used in place of glycolic and salicylic acid.
As a third step, impurities are extracted from pores with painless, gentle suction. This is done with a multi-action formula containing peach, apple, and raspberry extracts to visibly brighten the skin, salicylic acid as a BHA exfoliant to unclog the pores, willow bark extract as a gentle exfoliant and Tasmanian pepper berry to soothe the skin.
The fourth step is the application of a personalized serum booster. Serum boosters are clinically proven to target specific skin concerns
such as the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, texture, elasticity, hyperpigmentation, and pore size.
Finally, the ultimate step is to hydrate with a formula that contains a firming peptide to diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, hyaluronic acid to replenish moisture back to the skin and deeply penetrate for effective hydration, green tea extract for skin soothing, copper, magnesium, and zinc PCA for skin conditioning, as well as red algae extract to help hydrate and brighten skin.
The relaxing facial lymphatic massage is performed using a custom vacuum device. Lymphatic therapy stimulates the facial lymph nodes to assist with improving blood flow, detoxifying the skin, decreasing inflammation, and overall optimizing skin health.
To complete and seal the treatment, the LED light therapy (FDA approved) is performed using the LightStim Elipsa device and is customizable at two different wavelengths. Red light is used to treat acne for 12 minutes, and blue light is used to treat acne for 16 minutes.
In a research study of 20 acne patients treated with HydraFacial treatments, published in 2022 in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 100 percent of the patients reported clearer, healthier, more radiant skin, and felt more confident in their appearance. Greater than 80 percent of patients reported reduced erythema (redness), oiliness, and congestion, and saw a visible improvement in inflammation and acne.
*Reference below.
*Storgard R, Mauricio-Lee J, Mauricio T, Zaiac M, Karnik J. Efficacy and Tolerability of HydraFacial Clarifying Treatment Series in the Treatment of Active Acne Vulgaris. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2022 Dec;15(12):42-46.
PMID: 36569524; PMCID: PMC9762628.
BY HEATHER MERLO
HELPING OTHERS HAS ALWAYS BEEN MY PASSION, AND MY JOURNEY in medicine began in the high-stakes world of emergency and trauma surgery. However, the pandemic profoundly shifted my perspective. At seven-and-a-half months pregnant, I found myself navigating another wave of the crisis, feeling both unheard and undervalued. The stark reality of jeopardizing my unborn child’s health while being told I should simply be grateful to have a job was a wake-up call. I realized my calling extended far beyond my current role.
After resigning, I discovered that esthetic medicine was where my true purpose lay. Though I was already certified to perform these treatments, I hadn’t fully embraced the possibilities until I committed wholeheartedly, with no backup plan. Taking the leap was both daunting and exhilarating, but it solidified my belief that this path was meant for me.
Drawing inspiration from my Italian heritage, I envisioned a medspa infused with Italian charm — a place where clients could rediscover their beauty, regain confidence, and experience treatments designed to turn back the clock. The name “Sei Tu Bella,” meaning “are you beautiful?” captured the essence of my vision. If the answer isn’t a resounding yes, it becomes our privilege to help you feel that way for as long as you are part of the Sei Tu Bella family. In that moment, a brand was born.
As a female entrepreneur and mother of five, I knew that finding a unique niche was essential to making Sei Tu Bella stand out and defining our mission. I aspired to break barriers and empower women to overcome their insecurities. When I discovered the INMODE EMPOWER RF Women’s Wellness platform, it felt like the missing piece of the puzzle. Within two months of opening our doors, we introduced this groundbreaking technology to our practice, starting with just a handful of clients. This decision proved to be a game-changer.
While many medspas offer neurotoxin treatments and facial balancing, I wanted to elevate our practice by incorporating an advanced platform
that would truly set us apart in the esthetics industry. This vision ultimately led to a partnership with INMODE, the world’s largest esthetic device manufacturer. Adding an energy-based device required a heightened level of accountability and commitment to excellence — challenges I was more than ready to embrace.
Building Sei Tu Bella Aesthetics required forming strategic partnerships to support our growth and elevating the client experience. Inspired by industry leaders, I aligned with key partners such as Growth99 for website development and marketing, RepeatMD for our rewards and membership platform, and renowned names like Merz Pharmaceuticals, Galderma, Allergan, Aesthetic Record, Boulevard, SaltMED, Skinbetter Science, and ZO Skin Health. Each partnership has played a pivotal role in shaping the foundation of Sei Tu Bella and ensuring our commitment to excellence.
Reflecting on the challenges of the pandemic, I’m grateful for how they pushed me to pursue my dreams and embrace entrepreneurship. I transformed adversity into a mission: to ensure our clients are more than just numbers — they are the heart of Sei Tu Bella and deserve to feel valued, heard, and truly cared for.
In esthetics, it’s vital to reflect the confidence and wellness we strive to provide. Our clients often come to us at their lowest — physically, emotionally, or mentally — and it’s our responsibility to embody the transformation they seek. Balancing a large family, a thriving practice, and my own well-being is no small feat, but I remind myself to recharge and be the role model I want my children to see.
I believe success comes from committing fully, with no backup plan, and fostering self-love, confidence, and empowerment in others. At Sei Tu Bella, we’re not just about esthetic enhancements; we’re about creating transformative experiences that help our clients become the best versions of themselves.
BY LAURA SCHREFFLER
1. Perrier-Jouët 2016 Limited Edition Belle Époque Giftbox Formafantasma, $229;perrier-jouet.com 2. Tiffany & Co. Tiffany HardWear Large Link bracelet in yellow gold with diamonds, $83,000;tiffany.com 3. CHANEL Fine Jewelry Coco Crush ring in quilted motif, small version in 18K yellow gold and diamonds, $5,300;available at select CHANEL boutiques and 800-550-0005 4. Jimmy Choo Stevie 100 black patent heels with crystal ankle strap, $1,295;jimmychoo.com 5. Gucci suitcase, $4,100;available at Gucci stores and gucci.com 6. Louis Vuitton Men’s Keepall Bandoulière 50, $2,780;available at select Louis Vuitton stores, 866-884-8866, and louisvuitton.com 7. Prada Glass Christmas ornament set, $575;prada.com 8. Bvlgari Serpenti Forever Mini top handle bag, $7,050;bulgari.com 9. Paravel x Silver Oak: Aviator carry-on plus, $895;silveroak.com 10. Merchant of Venice Red Potion, $227;maxaroma.com 11. Dior Prestige La Micro-Huile de Rose Activated Serum, $350;dior.com 12. Dior Medium Caro bag, $3,900;available at Dior boutiques and 1-800-929-3467 13. CHANEL 22 Cruise 2025 handbag in metalized calfskin and metal, $5,500;available at select CHANEL boutiques and 800-550-0005 14. Cartier Panthère de Cartier watch, small model in 18K yellow gold, $28,400;cartier.com 15. Vacheron Constantin Overseas Dual Time in 41mm in pink gold, $75,500;vacheron-constantin.com 16. Saint Laurent Rive Droite longboard, $1,650;ysl.com 17. Patek Philippe Complications Ref. 4947/1A, $52,440;available at the Patek Philippe Boutique Miami Design District, 305-482-1916 18. Rolex Deepsea in 44mm in yellow gold, $54,200;rolex.com 19. Brunello Cucinelli flecked soft virgin wool and cashmere waffle stitch knit polo, $3,900;shop.brunellocucinelli.com 20. Ferragamo Hug Crossbody bag, $2,300;ferragamo.com 21. FENDI brown FF jacquard and black leather Fendi Force chelsea boots, $1,150;fendi.com 22. Dior Men CD Icon beanie, $450;available at Dior Men boutiques and dior.com 23. Avi & Co. Frosted Collection frosted watch in 18K rose gold with 24.07CT diamond dial in 40mm, $130,000-$150,000, and Avi & Co. Graduated Round diamond necklace in platinum in 89.95ct and 17 inches, $1,650;aviandco.com 24. Hermès Sellier change tray, $730;available at Hermès stores, 1-800-441-4488, and hermes.com 25. 111 SKIN Ultimate Black Diamond collection, $1,900;111skin.com 26. Maison de Sabré The Airpods Case, $69;us. maisondesabre.com 27. Stefano Ricci luxury chessboard, $26,250;stefanoricci.com 28. Cincoro Añejo Cristalino, $150;cincoro.com 29.FENDI champagne-colored suede Peekaboo ISeeU Petite handbag with FF in crystals and studs, $5,700, and champagne-colored suede Nano Baguette charm with FF in crystals and studs, $1,290;fendi.com
This winter, Louis Vuitton redefines après ski style with its latest LV SKI collection, which features women’s ready-to-wear, leather goods, shoes, and accessories that blend technical sportswear with incredibly chic silhouettes. From shearling gloves and hats to the new Monogram Miroir handbag and the like-snow Capucines, the LV SKI collection is designed to wear both on and off the slopes.
PHOTOGRAPHY CHRISTINE HAHN
STYLING RYAN YOUNG AT THE WALL GROUP
FASHION DIRECTOR ADRIENNE FAUROTE
PROP STYLING SAM WARKOV
MAKEUP TIFFANY LEIGH PATTON
HAIR AZIZA RASULOVA
MODEL JEN AT KEV MGMT
PHOTO ASSISTANT IAN RUTTER
DIGITECH ANDREW BEADSWORTH
STYLIST ASSISTANT MEG GALVIN
WARDROBE INTERN REBECCA SCHIMKE
SHOT AT AGX STUDIOS
This December in Miami, all eyes are on Fendi as the brand unveils its newly expanded 6,700-square-foot boutique in the Miami Design District (MDD), featuring women’s and men’s collections across two levels that blend the signature style of Fendi with the vibrant, pastel-hued ambiance of Miami. Two of the city’s most influential women and style icons, Isabela Grutman and Vita Sidorkina-Morabito, give Fendi a warm welcome to the MDD ahead of the holiday season, donning pieces from the new Fendi winter holiday 2024 collection.
BY ADRIENNE FAUROTE
PHOTOGRAPHY DANNY CARDOZO
STYLING KELLY BROWN
FASHION DIRECTION ADRIENNE FAUROTE
MAKEUP YULIA AFI
HAIR AARON GRENIA USING IGK HAIR
MODELS ISABELA GRUTMAN AND VITA SIDORKINA-MORABITO
DIGITECH CARLOS ROJAS
FIRST PHOTO ASSISTANT ALEX LARSON
SECOND PHOTO ASSISTANT ASHLEY REDA
PRODUCTION ASSISTANT JACQUES BRUNA
STYLING ASSISTANTS DIANA REGLA RODRIGUEZ AND LISA MARIE TRIGUEIRO
SHOT ON LOCATION IN THE MIAMI DESIGN DISTRICT
Louis Vuitton’s 2025 Cruise collection pays tribute to one of Barcelona’s greatest architects, Antoni Gaudí. Gaudí’s influence transcends beyond Spanish architecture and is reflected in Louis Vuitton’s latest collection through drastic tailoring, a striking contrast between darkness and lightness, and thought-provoking silhouettes.
BY ADRIENNE FAUROTE
PHOTOGRAPHY DENIS BOULZE FOR LOUIS VUITTON
STYLING MARIE-AMÉLIE SAUVÉ FOR LOUIS VUITTON
MODELS ANNEMARY ADERIBIGBE AND SARA CABALLERO
This season, indulge in the finer things with Dior’s latest fine jewelry pieces by Dior Joaillerie artistic director Victoire de Castellane. Our favorite collections? Gem Dior, La Rose Dior, and My Dior, as well as the Étoile des Vents pieces from the Rose des Vents collection and the La D My Dior timepiece. Top your table with the many collections that make up the wonderful world of Dior Maison for the ultimate festive flair. From the latest Le Noël de Monsieur Dior collection to signature collections like the Cannage, Lily of the Valley, Plan de Paris, and Toile de Jouy, here’s to the perfect Dior soirée.
BY ADRIENNE FAUROTE
PHOTOGRAPHY JEFFREY WESTBROOK
STYLING MIAKO KATOH
Dior Maison Grey Toile de Jouy dessert plate, $150; teacup, $230;and teacup saucer, $100;available at Dior boutiques nationwide and 1-800-929-3467
Dior Fine Jewelry Bois de Rose necklace, price upon request and Bois de Rose rings, from $2,600 to $7,050;available at Dior boutiques nationwide and 1-800-929-3467 for special order
Dior Maison Le Noël De Monsieur Dior By Cordelia De Castellane dinner plate, $320 and dessert plate, $230; available at Dior boutiques nationwide and 1-800-929-3467
Dior Fine Jewelry Rose des Vents bracelets, from $3,900 to $4,250;available at Dior boutiques nationwide and 1-800-929-3467
With Louis Vuitton’s 2025 Cruise collection, Nicolas Ghesquière proves that clothing can take on the identity of any city in which it is worn. Here, the clothes embody the urban identity of New York, revealing their versatility in styling.
AN EXCLUSIVE LOOK INSIDE THE SPECTACULAR LOUIS VUITTON 57TH STREET NYC FLAGSHIP.
BY ADRIENNE FAUROTE
If you’ve been on Fifth Avenue recently, you may have noticed that Louis Vuitton was about to unveil something as grand as the façade of trunks that covered their boutique on the Champs-Élysées. In a city synonymous with ambition and reinvention, Louis Vuitton has introduced Louis Vuitton 57th Street NYC, an unprecedented temporary flagship that transforms the retail experience — just in time for the holiday season.
Located at 6 E. 57th Street, this five-story cultural haven invites consumers to explore the innovative world of Louis Vuitton. As the largest Louis Vuitton location in the United States, the space bridges history, craftsmanship, and the complex nature of the Maison’s connection to New York.
Louis Vuitton’s long-standing relationship with New York began in 1898, when the brand introduced its French art de vivre to the American market. The opening of its first independent store in the city on 57th Street in 1980 further solidified the brand’s cultural presence. Today, Louis Vuitton 57th Street NYC celebrates this enduring legacy by offering a space where history and modernity blend seamlessly — in true Louis Vuitton fashion.
Housed in an Art Deco-inspired building, the store is designed to reflect Louis Vuitton’s core values of artistry and innovation. Upon entering, visitors are welcomed by a 52-foot installation of Courrier Lozine 108 trunks, stacked in twisting towers that evoke the New York skyline while honoring the Maison’s trunk-making heritage. Additionally, a 60-foot mirrored wall showcasing iconic bags — including the Keepall and Speedy— rises vertically, creating a dynamic interplay of light and space.
Each floor offers a distinctive journey through the Maison’s universe. The first floor features iconic leather goods alongside an on-site personalization artisan, while the second and third floors house the women’s and men’s collections. On the fourth floor, culture and cuisine come together with Le Café Louis Vuitton and Le Chocolat Maxime Frédéric.
Finally, the fifth floor is home to exclusive lounges, Objets Nomades, Art de la Table, and a hidden loft dedicated to high jewelry and watches. Enhancing the overall experience, the store’s design incorporates contemporary furniture crafted by artists such as Carlo Mollino and Charlotte Perriand, alongside works from New York-based creatives like Todd Eberle and Chris Martin — making the store itself a true work of art.
For food connoisseurs, Le Café Louis Vuitton, a sophisticated café-library concept blending French elegance with New York’s loft culture, is the focal point of the flagship. Helmed by chefs Christophe Bellanca and Marie George, under the mentorship of Louis Vuitton’s culinary stalwarts Arnaud Donckele and Maxime Frédéric, the café introduces a new genre of luxury snacking. Signature dishes, like truffle ravioli embossed with the flower Monogram and Damier tartlets, offer a playful yet refined nod to some of Louis Vuitton’s design codes.
Adjacent to the café, Le Chocolat Maxime Frédéric makes its U.S. debut, showcasing handcrafted confections made from responsibly sourced cocoa. The menu features must-order items like the delightful Vivienne on a Malle, a chocolate centerpiece inspired by a music box that celebrates the Maison’s creativity and heritage.
Finally, for the ultimate New York moment, Louis Vuitton unveiled an exclusive capsule collection paying tribute to the city’s style, featuring men’s and women’s ready-to-wear, leather goods, accessories, and gifting items. Among the iconic pieces are collector bags like the Neverfull Inside Out in taxi yellow, the Speedy Soft with yellow lining and playful tags, the Capucines adorned with skyscraper panels, and the shimmering gold GO14. The Vivienne figurine returns in a New York State of mind, appearing on small leather goods, a silk bandeau, and other giftable items.
For men, the collection reimagines NYC-inspired elements from the SS25 precollection. It includes a city license plate motif that has been downsized into bag charms for the Avenue Slingbag and Keepall, as well as a hot-stamped detail on the Slender wallet. All of these items are rendered in Monogram Héritage with a vibrant yellow palette and the playful inscription “LV since 1854,” which nods to the founding year of Louis Vuitton.
A. Lange & Söhne celebrates 30 years of the Lange 1 with four limited editions.
BY ADRIENNE FAUROTE
IN HONOR OF THE 30 TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ICONIC Lange 1, A. Lange & Söhne has released four limited edition pieces that pay homage to the timepiece’s legacy. Known for its off-center dial, outsize date display, and meticulous craftsmanship, the Lange 1 has been a hallmark of German precision watchmaking since its debut in 1994. To mark this milestone, the brand has presented two special editions of the Lange 1 and two of the Little Lange 1.
The anniversary collection features the Lange 1 and Little Lange 1 in 950 platinum with a striking black onyx dial and in 750 pink gold with a radiant blue dial crafted from 925 silver. Limited to 300 pieces each, the Lange 1 models are paired with a 38.5mm case, while the smaller versions, limited to 150 pieces each, sport a more refined 36.8mm case. Both models maintain the signature esthetic of slender bezels and prominent lugs, adding a touch of sophistication to this commemorative release.
Wilhelm Schmid, CEO of A. Lange & Söhne, notes, “When the Lange 1 launched 30 years ago, it broke the existing design rules and defined its very own style. It symbolizes our unyielding ambition to innovate and refine.” The design of the Lange 1 has always
been about balance and refinement, guided by the principles of the golden ratio. With Roman numerals, lancet-shaped appliqués, and a harmonious arrangement of its dial elements, the watch remains visually captivating even 30 years after its introduction. The off-center dial configuration, complemented by the power-reserve indicator and subsidiary seconds display, is a testament to its enduring design.
The watches also feature the L121.1 manufacture caliber, a movement that powers both models. Introduced in 2015 as the 50th manufacturer movement, it offers a seamless date change at midnight and a 72-hour power reserve, all thanks to the reliable twin mainspring barrel. The movement, visible through the sapphirecrystal caseback, showcases exquisite hand-finishing, including a three-quarter plate crafted from untreated German silver and decorated with Glashütte ribbing, along with eight gold chatons secured by blued screws for contrasting accents.
Since its inception, the Lange 1 has inspired an entire family of watches, expanding its impact with models like the Tourbillon Perpetual Calendar and the Time Zone, carrying the weight of the invaluable reputation of A. Lange & Söhne.
Patek Philippe debuts a new collection for the first time in 25 years.
BY ADRIENNE FAUROTE
PATEK PHILIPPE PRACTICALLY BROKE THE INTERNET THIS October with the official debut of its first new collection in over two decades. The brand introduced the all-new Cubitus collection, a daring departure from tradition that embodies elegance and modernity. Featuring a distinctive square-shaped case with rounded corners, the collection debuts in three versions, each unique in its character.
The focal point of the collection is the Cubitus Grande Date, Ref. 5822P-001, which introduces an all-new complication in Patek Philippe’s portfolio. Powered by the newly developed caliber 240 PS CI J LU, this ultra-thin self-winding movement drives a grand date, day, and moon-phase display, offering precision and legibility with patented innovations in energy management. Its 45mm platinum case houses a horizontally embossed sunburst blue dial, framed by white gold markers and hands, and is completed by a navy-blue strap. A baguette-cut diamond at six o’clock adds another luxurious element to the timepiece, exemplifying the perfect marriage of esthetics and craftsmanship.
The Cubitus collection expands with two additional models: the Cubitus Ref. 5821/1AR and the Cubitus Ref. 5821/1A. The Cubitus Ref. 5821/1AR is a two-tone rose gold and steel version, boasting a bold 45mm square case with rounded edges and a slim profile. The blue sunburst dial with rose gold applied markers enhances its legibility and sleek design. Powered by the caliber 26-330 S C, this self-winding model features a 21K gold rotor and a stop-seconds function, ensuring precision and functionality. The rose-gold-and-steel bracelet with a patented fold-over clasp adds a contemporary yet timeless appeal.
Finally, the Cubitus Ref. 5821/1A is a 45mm steel model with an olive green, horizontally embossed dial. The ultimate Patek Philippe design that blends sophistication with sportiness through the watch, the Cubitus Ref. 5821/1A features a polished and satinbrushed finish. In contrast, its self-winding movement that features the same 21K gold rotor ensures optimal performance.
A brand-new collection from Patek Philippe was certainly not on our Q4 of 2024 bingo card, but it has breathed some fresh air into the industry for the end of the year.
Welcome to the Cartier jungle. This season, Cartier embraces the wild by reimagining its iconic Trinity design with signature animal motifs, including the panther, the tiger, and the snake. The Trinity novelties feature rings, bracelets, and earrings that incorporate designs mimicking reptile scales, panther spots, and tiger stripes.
BY ADRIENNE FAUROTE
PHOTOGRAPHY JEFFREY WESTBROOK
STYLING MIAKO KATOH
MAKEUP ASAMI MATSUDA AT SAINT LUKE ARTISTS
Cartier Trinity necklace in 18K yellow gold, 18K white gold, and 18K rose gold, $3,450;Trinity ring, large model in 18K yellow gold, 18K white gold, and 18K rose gold, $3,850;and Trinity bracelet in 18K yellow gold, 18K white gold, and 18K rose gold, $18,900;available at Cartier boutiques nationwide, 1-800-227-8437, and cartier.com
CHANEL Sport High Jewelry Graphic Line ring
One-of-a-Kind
UNVEILING OUR EXQUISITE HIGH JEWELRY 2024 GIFT GUIDE FEATURING INCREDIBLY RARE PIECES FOR YOUR ONE-OF-A-KIND LOVED ONES.
BY ADRIENNE FAUROTE
ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME ADVENTURES FOR THE ONE PERCENT.
BY LAURA SCHREFFLER
It’s a dream to see the Big Five out in the wild (leopards, rhinos, elephants, lions, and African buffalos), but it is not easy to do so. Forget about the logistics of actually getting up close and personal with these majestic beasts in their natural habitat, and think about yourself for a second. After what could be upwards of 30-plus hours of traveling from the States, most will want a cozy bed, a great place to stay, and a stiff drink — and not necessarily in that order. Sadly, not all safaris are built the same — which is why we recommend staying at Cottar’s 1920s Camp, located in the private, 7,608-acre Olderkesi Conservancy, on the border of Kenya’s famous Maasai Mara National Reserve (and letting the experts at ProAfrika Safaris do all of the logistical planning for you). This is truly one of the most bespoke, upscale experiences available — especially in that one with deep pockets doesn’t have to “glamp.” In addition to its own private airstrip (a true essential when arriving from Nairobi) Cottar’s Safaris offers one of the most truly exceptional places to stay Mara-wide in its Private Bush Villa. This behemoth, 10,000 square-foot retreat comes with eight dedicated members of staff, has its own private 82-foot swimming pool, and boasts breathtaking views onto the savannah plains with a backdrop of the Olentoroto Hill. Although the Bush Villa is part of the main camp, it feels like it’s set apart, and that could be because it is: guests will need to be escorted by jeep, security guard, or Maasai Warrior to the main mess tent which is where the action happens. Situated with a hilltop view of the rolling savannahs, the camp’s center encompasses an Art Nouveau bar where dedicated staff members make a mean Mint Julep amid vintage-era décor such as first-edition books, sextants, binoculars, and telescopes. This particular safari features a spa, and also offers a traditional safari bath, best enjoyed with bubbles and champagne at sunset, as well as unique activities including immersive walks with a local Maasai medicine and foraging expert, an immersive raptor experience, evening talks on the history of African travelers, and visits to local Maasai villages — which is among one of the most enriching and rewarding experiences modern-day travelers can have. Perhaps most importantly, however, Cottar’s Safaris has become known throughout Kenya for its conservation efforts, becoming the first camp in Africa to attain Preferred by Nature’s “Ecosystem Restoration Validation” certificate, and are one of only 11 accredited Long Run Global Ecosphere Retreats in the World, working via its Cottar’s Wildlife Conservancy Trust (CWCT) to conserve critical wilderness and wildlife corridors and areas bordering the Maasai Mara and Serengeti National Reserves.
How many people in the world can say they’ve been to Antarctica? The answer: not many. It’s expensive, precarious — the Weddell Sea being one of the most dangerous in the world — and time-consuming, in that you’ll be at sea for days at a time without land in sight. But if you’re going to make the trek, you had best do it right, and glamorously — and that’s where Swan Hellenic comes in. The British company relaunched in July 2020 with the sole purpose of offering upscale cultural expedition cruising via its purpose-built boutique ships that feature elegant Scandi-design interiors, extensive outdoor spaces, and dedicated expedition facilities. SH Diana, a PC 6 ice-class vessel, launched in May 2023 as a luxury expedition vessel, with on-board elements inclusive of a dedicated presentation and lecture theater, on-board Tender boats to take guests ashore more comfortably than customary expedition Zodiacs, a state-of-the-art gym, spa, panoramic sauna, club room, swimming pool, and three restaurants. But what sets Swan Hellenic apart is its experts: famous explorers, seasoned expedition guides, and leading authorities in their fields join in on the Antarctic fun, as do unique organizations such as JRE-Jeunes Restaurateurs, Chopra, and the SETI Institute. On many cruises, you can also participate in Swan Hellenic’s Citizen Science partnerships, contributing valuable data obtained during your expeditions and on board, reporting cloud data with NASA, recording whale sightings with Happywhale, monitoring phytoplankton with the Secchi Disk Study, and Antarctic seabird numbers with Stony Brook University. And best of all, you’ll be able to witness, first-hand, an untapped part of the world: the emperor penguin colony at Snow Hill Island, Adélie penguins, blue-eyed shags, humpback whales, minkes, and leopard seals at Pléneau and Petermann Islands; and finally, finally say you’re among the few to have conquered that tumultuous Weddell Sea.
In the States, we have Napa and Sonoma, along with the Willamette Valley, Central Coast, and newer wine regions in Virginia and Texas. But wouldn’t it be a dream to sip and swill in South Africa’s Cape Winelands? We think so, at least. Indulge in some of the best food and wine in Franschhoek, which is considered the gourmet capital of the Cape and is home to some of the country’s best restaurants, before heading to Stellenbosch, the country’s most famous wine region — and what is considered to be the birthplace of Pinotage home to over 150 wine estates. You can stay where it all began in Constantia, which is considered to be the first-ever wine estate in South Africa, located just 20 minutes from Cape Town, and known for its Sauvignon Blanc, Bordeaux-blends, and Muscat Blanc. For your stay, we recommend first checking into the magical Royal Portfolio collection properties of The Silo Hotel, a sanctuary in Cape Town celebrating art, style, and design that is defined by its shimmering pillowed-glass windows with panoramic views stretching from Table Mountain to the Table Bay harbor and which is located six floors above the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (which houses Africa’s largest collection of contemporary African art) and is close to some of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, such as Fyn Restaurant and La Colombe. Then, head to La Residence, a glorious property located on a private 30-acre estate in the heart of the Franschhoek Valley. Here, you can enjoy the best of the region with private wine tastings at nearby wineries; helicopter flights through the Winelands; strolls through a natural backdrop of olive trees, vines, and roses; and dinners at one of the many award-winning restaurants in the Valley.
Mardi Gras is something that should be experienced once in a lifetime. It’s a rite of passage, an opportunity to really let laissez bon temps rouler in a cloud of purple, gold, and green. French for “Fat Tuesday,” the season, known best as Carnival, begins on January 6, and continues until the midnight before Ash Wednesday. It’s wild to think that this ode to revelry didn’t become a renowned event until the late 1830s, with street processions of carriages and horseback riders, all featuring masked and mysterious patrons, lit by gaslight torches. Today, there’s a decidedly more hedonistic bent to Mardi Gras; a revelry that consumes the city via costumes, krewes, balls, dining (including the ever-present King Cake) and, of course, drinking. Becoming part of this giant party is unlike anything you’ll be likely to experience in life. That being said, when it comes to a place to stay, those who like their creature comforts will want to confine their French Quarter ministrations to partying only. Stay at the tony Four Seasons New Orleans, which is just far enough away to take a break from the crowds should you need some peace and quiet, and close enough that you can easily join in. Plus, the property features the crème de la crème of the Big Easy in Donald Link’s Chemin à la Mer eatery, Alon Shaya’s Miss River restaurant, the gorgeous and glorious Chandelier Bar, and a spa that will melt all traces of late Mardi Gras nights away.
In Wadi Rum, Jordan — otherwise known as the Valley of the Moon the stars appear so close that you can touch them. Or it seems that way, at least. In this valley, cut into the sandstone and granite rock of southern Jordan near Saudi Arabia’s border, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is an ideal spot for a proper Bedouin experience under the stars. Which, as it happens, is one of the many reasons to go: throughout the year, Jordan becomes a popular destination for astronomy enthusiasts and skywatchers alike to catch spectacular starry displays and meteor showers (including this past summer’s Perseid meteor shower, November’s Leonid meteor shower, or the upcoming Geminids meteor shower in mid-December). The Memories Aicha Luxury Camp is definitely the most luxurious glamping experience in the area — 55 tents, bordered by rugged mountains and the stunning Arabian desert — a standout being its lavishly-decorated panoramic luxury suite with plush furnishings inspired by the colorful sands of the desert. Beyond that, Jordan also now has a Hollywood pedigree: Olivewood Film Studios, located just outside of Amman, consist of two 16,000-plus square foot soundstages, where the likes of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, Dune 1 & 2 and The Martian were filmed.
Blue Lagoon Iceland was founded in 1992 to unlock the benefits of geothermal water, but it’s become one of (if not the most visited) tourist attractions in Iceland thanks to its unusual natural phenomenon of ocean water and freshwater converging in a tectonic realm of searing heat and extreme pressure, creating geothermal seawater over a mile beneath the earth. The water, which is enriched with silica, algae, and minerals, is known for its healing, rejuvenating, and nourishing abilities. It’s a great introduction to the Land of Fire and Ice, though Sky Lagoon, a man-made geothermal spa just 13 minutes from the center of Reykjavik, is certainly as incredible, though in a more convivial, less wildly outrageous way. We recommend trying both though the latter is certainly more convenient in that it’s closer to our recommended, over-the-top, five-star hotel pick, The Reykjavik EDITION, which opened its doors in 2021, the very same year as Sky Lagoon. Located in the historical, scenic heart of downtown Reykjavik by Old Harbor port next door to the Olafur Eliasson-designed Harpa Concert and Conference Center, the sleek, sensual hotel boasts a variety of distinctive food, beverage, and entertainment outlets. On a good night, you might even see the Northern Lights from the seventh floor bar, The Roof, though hidden sanctuary TÖLT, which is named after the unique fourth gait of Icelandic horses and which is inspired by Icelandic culture, with local Icelandic spirits dominating the menu, is much cozier —and what we feel is the perfect venue for late night cocktails come winter.
There is nothing quite so majestic as the aurora borealis. Seeing the colors swirl and dance, live in person, is nothing short of incredible. In our experience, the very best place in the world to see the Northern Lights is directly beneath the Aurora Oval in the coastal city of Tromsø. Though many believe winter to be its peak time, statistically, the most active seasons are autumn and spring, when the earth’s orientation towards the sun maximizes the probability of solar flares interacting with the planet’s magnetic field. Plus, as a bonus, you’ll be able to see the aurora without freezing your buns off, and it’s less crowded, which is much more appealing. Despite being in the Aurora Zone, the aurora can be a finicky bombshell, and as such, you definitely need the right guide to get you to witness her glory. Should all else fail on a cloudy night, North Experience can take you to their nearby aurora base station for a glimpse of this outrageous spectacle; they’ll take care of everything including showing you how to best take photos to witness the lights. While in Tromsø, there are a variety of activities to engage in outside of aurora hunting. Float peacefully on a lake — underneath the stars or in broad daylight — with Authentic North; tour the Troll Museum and Arctic Cathedral for pieces of Norway’s legendary folklore; and indulge in some incredible meals with local, native fare at restaurants like Bardus Bistro, Smak, Fiskekompaniet, and Walter & Leonard. Should you choose the more convenient option of staying near the city’s center as a opposed to a more private luxury lodge outside of town, Clarion Hotel The Edge a Scandi-cool stay located on Tromsø Harbor — is our top pick.
Rolls-Royce: 120 years of excellence.
BY TIM LAPPEN
SAY YOU WANT TO CELEBRATE YOUR 120 TH BIRTHDAY — WHAT would you do? If you are a person, you would most likely add special bunting on your wheelchair, but if you’re a car company — I mean, if you are THE car company, with one of the longest pedigrees and almost the longest history — you would need to do something special.
That was the conundrum facing Rolls-Royce recently, when they invited a small cadre of esteemed journalists (and me) to come to Las Vegas for three days to experience two of their latest and greatest creations.
Rolls-Royce has completed constructing the last iterations of their twodoor models, which will no longer be produced — their Dawn convertible and their Wraith two-door luxury fastback. Still very much in production are their top-of-the-line Phantom and their next-in-line four-door Ghost. But the recent Sin City event was with their next-newest model, the Cullinan Series II SUV and their latest creation, the Spectre two-door Ultra-Luxury Electric Super Coupé. Yet the main focus of this gathering was on the proper care and feeding of both the cars and their occupants, which is accomplished by way of the exemplary “Rolls-Royce White Glove Programme and Chauffeur
Experience.” Yes, that’s a real thing and it has been popular — in one version or another — almost since the company was founded. I was very pleased to have been able to partake of an abridged version of that program as part of our Las Vegas experience (apparently not all that happens in Vegas is meant to stay in Vegas).
Fortunately for us all, the chief instructor of the Chauffeur Academy was the inimitable Andi McCann, a product expert and trainer who has worked with Rolls-Royce since 2005. With an extremely eclectic background (he has worked with Formula 1 drivers and competitive skiers; his knowledge of how the human body reacts and how to make it work better is incredible), he is perfectly suited to instruct others on the proper movements and procedures to efficiently and flawlessly handle the tasks at hand. But why, in this day and age, are we even talking about chauffeurs? To take our hospitality host hotel for example, Wynn Las Vegas and the adjacent Encore Las Vegas, have ten Phantoms on order to add to their fleet of Rolls-Royces, all driven by graduates of the Chauffeur Academy. In fact, in the US, though eighty to ninety percent of Rolls-Royces are driven by their owners, the rest are piloted
by a chauffeur (the percentage of chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royces is twenty to thirty percent worldwide). While some owners may have a full-time person whose job is to be the driver, many owners (and virtually all of the companies with fleets of Rollses), employ a car manager who looks after the cars and is periodically called on to be the driver. (Interesting fact: “chauffeur” is derived from the French word for “heat” and came from the name given to the person who stoked the fire on a steam engine of a train, whose job itself was not likely to involve wearing white gloves.)
So back to McCann’s program. The stated purposes were to give us familiarity with the Rolls-Royce lineup of vehicles, gain a working understanding of how the vehicles’ systems operated, a basic knowledge of the maintenance of the cars and, especially, the proper way to care for one’s passengers and to safely and comfortably arrive at Point B.
From the start, Rolls-Royce knew that the key to making a reliable car was to have someone who knew how to care for it. This included preventative maintenance — not just repairs — making the role of chauffeur a dual one. Historically, the program included a fair amount of mechanical training. Even though the Rolls-Royces of the past were highly reliable for their time, they did need regular attention for adding oil, lubricating various moving parts and, especially given the early history of the ox cart paths — I mean, roads — how to change a tire. Due to the immense mechanical improvements over the past dozen decades, the emphasis is now on the desired personality traits of the drivers as well as the drivers’ skills in making the passengers feel cared-for but not intruded-upon.
The first part of our program was held at a suite in the Encore tower, where McCann explained some of the steps of his extensive training program. As the chief trainer of the Rolls-Royce Chauffeur Academy, he has educated dozens of drivers who work for (or who want to work for) the owners of these
luxurious cars. Some of the issues he mentioned were common sense, such as not parking the car too close to a wall or hedge so as to make entry and exit a challenge, or being sure to back the car in so that the passengers would approach the car from the front, as that is the most distinctive and elegant angle from which to see the vehicle. Other suggestions weren’t as apparent to many of us in the class, such as adjusting the inside rear-view mirror to not make eye contact with the back-seat passengers so that they wouldn’t feel “watched” or intruded-upon.
The second part of the program included the “field work.” Ensconced in the new Cullinan Series II or the equally new all-electric Spectres, we journalists drove (two to a car) an hour or so out of Las Vegas to the Valley of Fire. There, the initial test was for McCann to see how everyone parked. We all (mostly) did fine, backing in equally between the parking lines, all front bumpers lined up in a row. It was a great photo op as well, with the juxtaposition of the world’s most-elegant cars and the rugged terrain around us on a bright and very sunny day.
The next test was to practice opening the rear door of a Cullinan to allow a guest to enter. Sounds easy, right? Well, true to the Rolls-Royce motto of “Effortless everywhere,” the plan was to open the door and make it look graceful and easy. “Arm extended, step back and pull the door handle in one flowing move, starting far enough forward so one can reach the door but far enough rearward so that one doesn’t block the occupant’s path,” we were told. After several attempts, even the clumsiest members of the group (no names will be mentioned here) were able to master the movement.
At the good-bye dinner at the sumptuous Delilah restaurant at the Wynn that night, each writer received the coveted framed white glove, personally signed by Andi McCann. What an elegant trophy to remember a very special trip, while piloting some of the most elegant cars on Earth.
The 911 was his first masterpiece. Then, Prof. F. A. Porsche wrote history with the world’s first black timepiece. The Chronograph 1 –All Black Numbered Edition.
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BY GRACE SARKISIAN
WHEN I FIRST TRIED AMP, THE SMART STRENGTH MACHINE THAT’S getting a lot of buzz, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Founded in 2021 by entrepreneur Shalom Meckenzie, amp was born from a simple necessity: combining cutting-edge design with smart technology to create a transformative fitness experience. As someone who loves experimenting with fitness trends but doesn’t always stick to them, I was curious to see how this sleek, tech-driven piece of equipment would hold up in just one session. Spoiler alert: it left me impressed — and wanting more.
Right out of the box, I was impressed by the machine’s clean, minimalist design. Made from high-grade materials such as aluminum alloy and chrome-plated steel, amp feels incredibly durable without being bulky. It blends into your home unlike most traditional gym equipment, which is a major plus for anyone trying to keep their living space stylish.
The cable system is one of the smoothest I’ve ever tried. Everything, from the pulleys to the motor is meticulously engineered to create a seamless workout experience. With just a single session, it is clear that amp is as much about ease of use as it is about serious strength training. But it’s no surprise: the powerful fitness tool was developed by experts who have worked with top brands like Apple, Nike, and Spotify, as well as sports scientists who have trained NBA, NFL, and Olympic athletes.
One of the standout features of amp is how user-friendly it is. Even with zero setup experience, adjusting the machine for different exercises felt intuitive. The arm’s height and rotation can be controlled with a simple knob, and every movement is smooth and precise. During my workout, I wasn’t worried about fussing with the machine — it allowed me to focus fully on the exercises.
The brand’s app, which acts as your personal, AI-powered fitness assistant, works seamlessly with amp. The setup is intuitive — all I had to do was set up my phone, and the app’s technology tracked my movements in real-time — counting reps and measuring my progress. I wasn’t distracted by trying to keep track of sets or repetitions. Instead, I could focus on perfecting my form, knowing the app was capturing everything.
The smart modes add a dynamic edge to the workout. With amp’s electromagnetic technology, you can choose between modes like fixed,
band, amplify, tempo, and drop set. Each mode delivers resistance in different ways, keeping muscles constantly engaged and challenged. Even though it was my first session, I felt like I got a great workout in just 30 minutes.
One of the most surprising aspects of amp is its price. The device retails for $1,795, with a $23 monthly subscription for the app. Given the high-end features of the machine and the technology behind it, this is particularly competitive in today’s premium fitness equipment market. Remarkably, amp has managed to bring a high-quality product to a price point that makes it accessible to a wider array of customers.
This aligns with the vision of Meckenzie, who aimed to create a device that wasn’t just for elite athletes or high-end gyms but for everyone. His goal was to make strength training more approachable and affordable so that more individuals could integrate fitness into their everyday lives and live healthier, more active lifestyles.
Even after just one session, it was clear how amp could take my workouts to the next level. The personalization is where amp truly shines. The app adapts your workout to your performance, meaning the more you use it, the more it tailors itself to your needs. I could see how this would make working out consistently not only more effective but also more enjoyable.
The gamification built into amp adds a layer of fun and motivation. Competing against myself through personal challenges felt engaging and could become addictive over time, encouraging me to constantly push past my limits.
While I’ve only tried amp once, I’m convinced that it’s a practice I’d love to incorporate into my routine. It combines everything I look for in any kind of fitness equipment — elegance, ease, and efficiency — with the added bonus of AI technology that adapts to my progress. Strength training becomes accessible, enjoyable, and, most importantly, effective with amp.
For anyone looking for a smarter, more engaging way to work out at home, amp is worth a try. One session was enough to show me its potential, and I’m already eager to see what more it can do with regular use.
Design duo FormaFantasma have partnered up with Perrier-Jouët to create Cohabitare, a revolutionary project that will protect and propel Champagne’s delicate ecosystem.
BY LAURA SCHREFFLER
MAISON PERRIER-JOUËT HAS JUST UNVEILED THE ULTIMATE eco-collaboration of art, design, and — of course — champagne with Cohabitare, a project years in the making conceived by the renowned Milan- and-Rotterdam-based design studio FormaFantasma, a research-focused design studio investigating the ecological, historical, political, and social forces shaping the discipline of design today. Founders Andrea Trimarchi and Simone Farresin are championing the need for value-based advocacy and comprehensive design thinking. The aim of the designers’ practice is to facilitate a deeper understanding of both natural and built environments, with transformative interventions through design and its material, technical, social, and discursive possibilities. The studio has earned many of design’s most prestigious awards, as well as partnerships with international brands such as Flos, Cassina, Fendi, Tacchini, Vitra Design, Prada, and Artek, among others. Their designs are present in the collections of institutions including New York’s MoMA and Metropolitan Museum, London’s Victoria and Albert, Paris’s Musée National d’Art Moderne, Musée des Arts Décoratifs, and Centre Pompidou, Rome’s Museo Maxxi, and the Vitra Design Museum, among many others. In 2020, Serpentine Galleries dedicated a solo exhibition to FormaFantasma.
For their latest project, the duo has taken a holistic and conceptual approach to design, developing projects that contribute to local biodiversity. That is the case here with Cohabitare, which draws direct inspiration from Perrier-Jouët’s experimental regenerative program. It is a living manifesto of an environmental vision that unites biodiversity and agriculture, employing design as a transformative and vital force in FormaFantasma’s first permanent project situated in nature.
Cohabitare is an architectural intervention and physical space in Champagne dedicated to celebrating the productive coexistence of multiple species to foster a culture of ecology. The project necessitated two years of research, during which FormaFantasma consulted international experts in biodiversity and, in France, collaborated with a scientific committee (a naturalist specializing in the management of land and ecosystems, a doctor of entomology and landscape ecology, and an expert in regenerative viticulture) established several years
ago by Maison Perrier-Jouët. The committee was consulted during the pre-research phase and provided the designers with preliminary studies, data, and analyses. The result is an innovative piece of architecture for non-human species — a long-term undertaking projected towards a better future — revealed to the public in September 2024 at Les Agusons, in Ambonnay. The first part of the project, the Ilot de Biodiversité (Biodiversity Island) is a functional design location activated by the birds, insects, bats, and plants for which the 285 square mile space has been reimagined. Keeping humans at a respectful distance without cutting them off entirely, the installation uses 74 posts designed by FormaFantasma, structured by terracotta modules handcrafted in France, and finished with a range of natural iron oxide glazes whose bright colors attract the species. Some of the modules are designed to serve as a habitat for insects thanks to openings and cavities of various sizes and shapes. The indigenous plants of this protected space will provide food for the insects. The aim of the Ilot de Biodiversité is to enrich local biodiversity, which will be monitored, according to nature’s rhythms, by the experts on the scientific committee. A study will also be undertaken in partnership with the Natural History Museum in Paris, to establish biodiversity indicators both for Cohabitare and for the vineyard plots managed with regenerative viticulture.
The Ilot de Biodiversité is surrounded by plots that benefit from the experimental regenerative viticulture program started by Maison Perrier-Jouët in 2021 and which now extends to 28 hectares — over 40 percent of its vineyard today with an objective of 100 percent by 2030. This holistic approach considers the ecosystem of the vineyard as a whole in order to improve its functionality and resilience: the soils, the local species, and the human caretakers. Maison Perrier-Jouët is experimenting with four ways to enhance biodiversity: biomass plant covers, floral plant covers, vitiforestry, and green corridors. The regenerative viticulture program is part of the initiatives started by Maison Perrier-Jouët a decade ago to adapt its vineyard practices with the goal of minimizing strain on the environment and enriching biodiversity. The designers have also curated the first edition of the Banquet of Nature by Perrier-Jouët.
A CONVERSATION WITH MCQ MARKETS CO-FOUNDER LACHLAN DEFRANCESCO.
Born in Toronto and raised under the Fort Lauderdale sunshine, Lachlan DeFrancesco’s zest for speed and style started early.
“One Christmas, when I was around six or seven, my dad — a lifetime car enthusiast — surprised my brother and I with go-karts,” Lachlan reminisces with a smile. “It was definitely against my mother’s wishes.”
Before long, he and his older brother Devlin were dedicating every weekend to their newfound love, trekking from Miami to Palm Beach to Orlando to compete in various club races and competitions. It wasn’t long before such a hobby fast-tracked their childhood into a demanding career, with school schedules revolving around races across Europe. “It’s what you had to do to be successful in karting,” Lachlan explains. “But it was a lot of fun, a lot of traveling and getting to meet new people. When I was ten or eleven, I started winning some championships in North America, which led my brother and I to really commit to this.”
While Devlin went on to become one of the world’s top auto-racing drivers, winning the 60th running of the Daytona 24 in 2022 and achieving two podiums and nine top five finishes in the open-wheel racing series Indy Lights, Lachlan — a three-time U.S. National Karting Champion — opted for a different track.
“I stepped away from racing around sixteen because I wanted to focus on my studies, but I still wanted to remain connected to the racing world. While my brother excelled in racing, I was more interested in following my father’s path into business.”
That entrepreneurial spark ignited with an unexpected detour into cryptocurrency and fractional ownership. After successfully trading sports cards with his friends, Lachlan realized he could apply a similar model to something he was truly passionate about — cars.
“My dad couldn’t believe the margins we made on these cards, so I told him the key was fractional ownership. While I enjoyed it, sports cards weren’t my passion. That’s when the idea struck: How can I do this with cars?”
This revelation laid the foundation for MCQ Markets, a company that Lachlan co-founded at just 21 years old. His mission? To democratize luxury car ownership.
“At a Barrett-Jackson event, there were about 65,000 people cheering, but only one percent was actually bidding,” Lachlan explains. “That’s when the lightbulb went off. I thought, What if we could bring this to the masses?”
MCQ Markets, which Lachlan helped launch alongside CEO Curt Hopkins, is offering fractionalized ownership of luxury and classic cars, making these high-end investments accessible to a broader audience.
Curt brings a wealth of experience to the table, having previously held senior leadership positions at major companies like Vodafone and Nortel before transitioning to CEO roles in tech firms like Redeem and Telenomics. “With MCQ Markets, we’re creating a platform where everyday individuals can invest in luxury assets — assets that would normally be out of reach,” Curt explains. “This isn’t just about cars; it’s about creating a new way for people to own and invest in something they love.”
Despite being in its early stages, the company has attracted a formidable team and high-profile backers from the world of motorsports and entertainment. Notable names like the Andretti family, several Indy and F1 drivers, and Keaton Hoskins from the Diesel Brothers have all rallied
behind the company. Hoskins highlights how the vision of MCQ Markets could create a massive shift in the car market. “Our audience, at the core, is passionate about all things automotive — whether it’s a souped-up diesel or a classic Ferrari. What MCQ Markets is doing really resonates because it takes that shared passion for cars and turns it into an investment opportunity. They’re not just opening the door for luxury car enthusiasts — they’re giving everyday gearheads a chance to be part of something bigger, to own a piece of these legendary machines in a way that’s never been possible before.”
At the heart of MCQ Markets’ model is the ability for multiple individuals to own shares of rare vehicles such as a 1986 Lamborghini Countach 5000 QV and a 2012 Lexus LFA. “We are giving people the chance to invest in cars they’ve dreamed of owning but never thought possible,” Lachlan says. “This allows collectors to diversify their portfolios without the need to shell out hundreds of thousands of dollars upfront.”
CEO Curt Hopkins echoes this vision, stating, “Fractional ownership dismantles barriers like storage, maintenance, and high price tags, making these investments significantly more accessible.”
By offering fractional ownership, MCQ Markets taps into a growing luxury car market projected by analysts to reach USD 2.79 trillion by 2032, according to Fortune Business Insights. Investors can now buy into high-performance cars which, according to historical industry data, have outperformed traditional stock markets in value appreciation since 2001.
While the financial model is critical, Lachlan’s vision extends beyond profit: he aims to build a passionate community. As part of this communitybuilding effort, MCQ Markets is opening a 10,000-square-foot warehouse in Miami’s Wynwood district to showcase its classic car fleet. Investors will have the opportunity to see the vehicles they’ve invested in, and the space will serve as a hub for car enthusiasts.
“I want to eliminate the velvet rope,” Lachlan says. “I want everyone to have this opportunity. To some people, a classic car is like art. To others, it’s a status symbol. And for some, it’s a dream come true.”
Looking ahead, Lachlan shares, “We’d like to take the company public, and we’re in discussions to do so, with realistic hopes for the end of 2024. But for me, it’s about more than the business. It’s about bringing together people who love cars as much as I do.”
BY MARY GIBSON
IN A SATURATED MARKET WHERE MANY COMPETITORS SETTLE for standard vehicles and conventional approaches, Douglas Burks Sr. has built a luxury car service that doesn’t just transport clients — it transforms their experience. From the impeccable cleanliness of the fleet to surprise touches like champagne and cigars for wedding clients, Burks’ attention to detail has set the company apart. In this interview, we dive into the visionary journey that led to the company’s success, uncovering the faith, ambition, and relentless commitment to quality that drive it forward.
What inspired you to start your luxury car service business?
I started in tailoring, believe it or not. I always had a vision for excellence, whether it was in clothing or cars. But when I began this journey, I wanted to do something that reflected not just good service, but the best service. Escalades, for example, are a cornerstone of my fleet. Most people in this business stick with Suburbans or Yukons because they’re cheaper, but I believe in going the extra mile. It’s not just about money for me; it’s about giving people an experience. And when you commit to quality, the money follows.
You’ve mentioned your faith as a big part of your journey. How has that shaped your business?
Faith has been the foundation. When God gives you a vision, it’s between you and Him. I’ve learned not to run my ideas by others who may not understand them. My imagination — what I call the “snapshot” of the future — is my guide. That snapshot drives every decision I make. I focus only on things that align with that vision and surround myself with a team that shares it. My faith has also inspired how I treat people. Whether it’s my employees or my clients, I aim for a vision that benefits everyone involved. A good idea helps only yourself, but a real vision elevates the whole community.
Your company is known for providing unique touches, especially for weddings. Can you share more about that?
Weddings are special to me because God honors marriage, so I make it a point to go above and beyond. We include a bottle of champagne for the couple, flowers for the bride, and a cigar for the groom — all at no extra charge. Clients are always surprised and delighted by these gestures. It’s not just about driving; it’s about creating memories. That’s the standard of service I hold myself to.
What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?
Do everything without fear. And don’t rely too much on others’ opinions — they may not see your vision the way you do.
When you believe in your dream, pursue it aggressively and persistently. Treat every client like they’re the most important person in the world because that word-of-mouth will bring you more opportunities. I remember when the CEO of Georgia-Pacific became a client. From there, referrals started coming from others at that same level. Success builds on how well you treat the people you serve.
Another piece of advice: don’t chase money. Some of the most impactful opportunities I’ve had didn’t start with a big paycheck. But those moments became stepping stones to where the money was. If God gives you the opportunity, He’ll provide what you need to make it happen.
What’s next for your business?
I’m focused on growth and visibility. I’m proof that when you stay true to your vision and work hard, amazing opportunities come your way. I’m excited about what’s next, not just for the exposure but because it aligns with my mission to provide the best experience in this industry.
For more information: 866.599.1213 or burksluxury.com
ON OCTOBER 5, HAUTE LIVING CELEBRATED LION ORDER, Rohan Marley’s luxury root brand with Herb during an exclusive cocktail party and dinner at Soho Beach House Miami. Rohan Marley, son of Bob Marley, attended the event to highlight Lion Order’s mission of redefining cannabis culture through the Rastafari philosophy of authenticity. The event featured stunning floral arrangements by Luxury Flowers Private Studio and kicked off with an El Cristiano Tequila tasting. The intimate dinner brought together notable guests such as Kamal Hotchandani, CEO of Haute Media Group, and April Donelson, Senior Vice President of Haute Media Group, Maytee Martinez, Aaron Cole, Richard Booker, and more. Guests were treated to a sophisticated culinary experience with delicious dishes including a pan-seared snapper filet with spinach and cherry tomatoes, Agnolotti del Plin with butter, sage, and truffle, and mini key lime pies for dessert. Specialty rum-based cocktails transported guests to a tropical paradise, including the rum cake creation, infused with a blend of rum, pineapple, orange, lime juices, and grenadine. Lion Order and Goldflower Cannabis have recently joined forces to introduce their organically grown cannabis products to Miami — with plans to expand across Florida — therefore blending tradition with innovation in cannabis culture. Together, they are proud to offer premium products and carry forward the Marley commitment to excellence in the cannabis industry.
HAUTE WINE SOCIETY CELEBRATED THE COVER OF THE five-time NBA All-Star, FIBA World Champion, Olympian, and Miami Heat player Kevin Love with an intimate dinner at Cipriani Downtown Miami on October 21. The exclusive evening was hosted in collaboration with Cipriani Residences Miami and Mast Capital, bringing together an impressive guest list, including Kamal Hotchandani, CEO of Haute Media Group, April Donelson, Senior Vice President of Haute Media Group, Camilo Miguel Jr., CEO of Mast Capital, Miami Heat players Duncan Robinson and Jaime Jacquez Jr., Radmila Lolly, Matthew Chevallard, Andy Ansin, Marc Gardner, Brian Hecker, and more. Guests indulged in a refined menu curated by chef Giuseppe Russo featuring Cipriani’s signature Italian cuisine. Appetizers included a fresh cucumber salad with celery, tomatoes, and avocado; the renowned carpaccio alla Cipriani; and the indulgent baked tagliolini with Parma ham. For the main course, attendees were treated to baked Norwegian wild salmon and a prime grilled filet “tagliata.”
The meal concluded with Cipriani’s decadent dessert selection, perfectly paired with a curated selection of wines from Cipriani’s private cellar. Haute Wine Society ensured that the wine pairings complemented the dishes, offering guests a full sensory experience.
3. Atmosphere at Cipriani Downtown Miami
4. Dr. Karent Sierra
5. Chelcie May and Matthew Chevallard
6. Caroline Nava, Robinson, and Love
7. Shreya Arun, Olivia Szynski, Radmila Lolly, and Dominique Ruotolo
FROM OCTOBER 30 TO NOVEMBER 3, HAUTE LIVING AND FRASER YACHTS hosted a five-day Fraser Hospitality Mansion at the 65th annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show with partners Haute Jets and artist Johnathan Schultz. As guests arrived, they were treated to culinary dishes from Spuntino Catering, complemented by Simon Estate Wines and El Tequileno Tequila. Attendees enjoyed private tenders to and from the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, along with an all-day chef service, signature cocktails, and beach vibes by DJ Sepi. Spuntino Catering served hors d’oeuvres such as a petite Mediterranean octopus salad with baby arugula pesto, roasted cherry tomatoes, stracciatella cheese with Genova pesto and roasted tomatoes and mini Angus beef en croûte with pesto drizzle, salmon tartare, fennel, green apple on a savory crispy cone, and more. Attendees also dined at stations serving a selection of European cheeses with honey and marmalade, bresaola carpaccio, pastiera napoletana, Roman-style Margherita Pinsa, and skirt steak filets with balsamic carrots. The mansion hosted a captivating fiveday gallery showcase spotlighting the artwork of South African celebrity artist Johnathan Schultz. Known for his use of diamonds, gold, and precious metals, Schultz’s creations enthralled attendees.
THE STYLISH DUA MIAMI, AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION, CELEBRATED its grand opening in partnership with Haute Living, delivering an unforgettable night of Miami allure. The dazzling event featured craft cocktails, inspired bites from signature restaurant Ahu|Mar by chef Victor Rosato, and entertainment by legendary DJs Harry Romero and Rich Medina. Over 250 guests gathered to celebrate the debut of DUA Miami, a chic hotel that features 124 rooms and suites, an expansive rooftop pool, the on-site DUA Spa, 58,000 square feet of event space, the sultry DUA Lounge, and the acclaimed Ahu|Mar, a wood-fired seafood restaurant led by beloved chef Victor Rosado. Notable guests included general manager Leslie Weil, Genc Bicoku, Florida Kasa, and Hakien Pagan on behalf of DUA, along with social set Rohan Marley, Amanda Greenberg, Melina Cespedes, Starr Hawkins, and many more. In The Lounge, guests enjoyed an array of signature cocktails expertly crafted with the help of premium liquor partners Campari, Mayenda, Montelobos Mezcal, Brugal Rum, The Macallan Whiskey, and No. 3 Gin, which were featured in the elegant frozen martinis on site. In Ahu|Mar, Lallier Champagne and Fleur De Miraval rosé added a touch of sparkle to champagne cocktails. “DUA” translates to “love and desire” in Albanian, reflecting the hotel’s ethos of personal indulgence and meaningful connections. Located in the heart of Brickell at 300 S Miami Ave, DUA Miami offers elevated accommodations and amenities that seamlessly blend personal fulfillment with social connection.
4. Sara Prada
Stefano Santoro
5. Paquito Jamon
6. Emily Wilson and Cailin Currier
7. Zee Mass, Julia Leebedynets, and Viktoriia Poll
1. Antonela Roccuzzo, Kamal Hotchandani, Maria Roccuzzo, and Adrienne Faurote
2. Maison de Sabré
3. Roccuzzo and Hotchandani
4. Roccuzzo and Zane Sabré
5. Vic Garcia presents a bespoke painting
6. Amnisia Vodka
7. Diego, Alirio, and Doris Torrealba, April Donelson, and Mayor of Coral Gables Vince Lago
ON MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11, HAUTE LIVING CELEBRATED ITS October 2024 Miami cover star, the stunning Antonela Roccuzzo, at Casadonna in Miami alongside Maison de Sabré and MG Developer. As guests arrived, they were immersed in the world of Maison de Sabré with the brand’s luxury leather goods on display. Founded by brothers Zane and Omar Sabré, Maison de Sabré redefines leather with meticulously crafted collections that set a new standard of excellence. Guests mingled and indulged in bespoke cocktails, including the Sabremoji and The Master Plan. The ultra-premium Amnisia Vodka was also served throughout the evening. Founder and CEO of MG Developer, Alirio Torrealba, graciously welcomed Roccuzzo to Miami. Sabré also expressed his sincere gratitude for celebrating Roccuzzo in such an intimate setting. It was an intimate evening indeed, which highlighted the excellence of the city of Miami with notable attendees like Haute Media Group CEO Kamal Hotchandani, Mayor Vince Lago, Radmila Lolly, Isabela Grutman, Dorys Torrealba, and more. After the cocktail, guests enjoyed a coursed dinner of Italian classics at Casadonna with a stunning seaside view.
ON NOVEMBER 15, HAUTE LIVING AND BULOVA HOSTED a celebratory evening with a private screening of America Telling Time, 150 Years Of Bulova at Silverspot Cinema in Miami, which commemorates the American watchmaker’s incredible 150-year legacy. The film highlights Bulova’s pioneering spirit, innovative milestones, and cultural impact over the past century-and-a-half. Attendees were taken on a journey through time, witnessing the evolution of Bulova’s watchmaking artistry, from the brand’s early days in Miami to its iconic worldwide status. The event honored Bulova’s enduring commitment to excellence and its role in significant historical events, providing a fitting tribute to the watchmaker’s legacy and its future. Notable guests included Motiff, Rohan Marley, Luis Figueroa, Goyo, Venanzio Ciampa, Michael Benavente, Manuel Abud, CEO of The Latin Recording Academy, Kamal Hotchandani, CEO of Haute Media Group, Seth Semilof, publisher and COO of Haute Media Group, April Donelson, Senior Vice President of Haute Media Group, and more. The evening kicked off with signature cocktails paired with gourmet hors d’oeuvres including marinated tuna bites, steak skewers with housemade peanut sauce, and caprese skewers drizzled with balsamic glaze. The screening concluded with a grand finale celebration of the Latin Grammys’ 25th anniversary, produced by Venanzio Ciampa. It was marked with a luxurious dessert reception and a private dinner at Zuma, curated exclusively for the Bulova team.
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5. Alessandra Bregni, Aileen Contreras, and Fernando
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