ROMERO BRITTO | Winter 2023-2024 by Haute Living Naples

WINTER 2023-2024

NAPLES

$20.00

ROMERO BRITTO THE KING OF ART

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WHERE THE DIAMOND INSPIRES THE DESIGN

w w w . y a m r o n . co m WATERSIDE SHOPS | 5555 Tamiami Trail N #11, Naples, FL 34108 | 239-592-7707

S O U T H O F DO CT O R S P AS S S OUT P ASS SOHUOF T H DOOCTORS F DO CT O R S P AS S E 502 $ 9, 995, 000 S A N C E RSRANCE E 502R R | $9, 995,|000

M OORINGS MOORINGS OORINGS M

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A S P E N • T H E H A M P T O N S • P A L M S P R I N G S • M A L I B U • M A N H AT TA N • B E V E R LY H I L L S • L A G U N A B E A C H • A N D M O R E

SHPAEMNP •T OT N HE HAM PM T OSNPSR I •N P PRB I NUG •S M• AMNAHLAI B U • M• ABNEHVAETRTLAYN H•I LBL ESV •E RL LAYG U HILLS • L AGU N A B E A CRHE • A N D M O R E GAS•L M •P AMS A S P E N •S T •H P E AHL A MPTONS LAML I S P R I N G S • MTATLAI N B U • M A N H A T T A N • B E V E R LNYA HBI LELASC H • L• AAGNUDN AM O BE ACH • AND MORE 800 HARBOUR DRIVE, NAPLES, FLORIDA 34103 (239) 261-3939 © 2022 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. ALL MATERIAL PRESENTED HEREIN IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY. WHILE, THIS INFORMATION IS BELIEVED TO BE CORRECT, IT IS REPRESENTED SUBJECT TO ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGES OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL PROPERTY INFORMATION, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO SQUARE FOOTAGE, ROOM

800FLORIDA HARBOUR DRIVE, NAPLES, FLORIDA 34103 (239) 261-3939 © 2022 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE.HEREIN ALL MATERIAL PRESENTED HEREIN IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION ONLY. THIS INFORMATION IS 800 HARBOUR DRIVE, NAPLES, (239) 261-3939 © 2022 REAL ESTATE. ALLDOUGLAS MATERIAL PRESENTED ISALL INTENDED INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY. WHILE, THISPURPOSES INFORMATION IS WHILE, COUNT, NUMBER OFDOUGLAS BEDROOMS AND THE SCHOOL IN PROPERTY LISTINGS SHOULD BE VERIFIED BY FOR YOUR OWN ATTORNEY, ARCHITECT OR ZONING EXPERT. EQUALPURPOSES HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. 80034103 HARBOUR DRIVE, NAPLES, FLORIDA 34103ELLIMAN (239) 261-3939 ©DISTRICT 2022 ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. MATERIAL PRESENTED HEREIN IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION ONLY. WHILE, THIS INFORMATION IS BELIEVED TO BE CORRECT, IT TO IS REPRESENTED SUBJECT TO ERRORS,WITHDRAWAL OMISSIONS, WITHOUT CHANGESNOTICE. OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL PROPERTYBUT INFORMATION, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO SQUARE FOOTAGE, ROOM BELIEVED TO BE CORRECT, IT IS REPRESENTED SUBJECT ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGES INFORMATION, INCLUDING, NOT LIMITED TO SQUARE FOOTAGE, BELIEVED TO BE CORRECT, IT IS REPRESENTED SUBJECTOR TO ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGESALL OR PROPERTY WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL PROPERTY INFORMATION, INCLUDING, BUTROOM NOT LIMITED TO SQUARE FOOTAGE, ROOM COUNT, NUMBER OF BEDROOMS AND THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IN PROPERTY LISTINGS SHOULD BE VERIFIED BY YOUR OWN ATTORNEY, ARCHITECT OR ZONING EXPERT. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. COUNT, NUMBER OF BEDROOMS ANDCOUNT, THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IN PROPERTY LISTINGS SHOULD BE VERIFIED BY YOUR OWN ATTORNEY, ORYOUR ZONING EXPERT. EQUAL HOUSING OR OPPORTUNITY. NUMBER OF BEDROOMS AND THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IN PROPERTY LISTINGS SHOULD BEARCHITECT VERIFIED BY OWN ATTORNEY, ARCHITECT ZONING EXPERT. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY.

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MODERNIZED MEDITERRANEAN MASTERPIECE 4 2 1 6 C RA Y T ON RD |

PA RK SH ORE $8, 995, 000

MODERNIZED MEDITERRANEAN MASTERPIECE 4216 CRA Y TON RD |

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PARK SHORE $8,995,000

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NAPLES PUBLISHERS Kamal Hotchandani kamal@hauteliving.com Seth Semilof ssemilof@hauteliving.com Danny Govberg EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, NAPLES Mari Hernandez Rubenstein mari@hauteliving.com DIRECTOR OF DESIGN Maholi Aagaard maholi@hauteliving.com SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT April Donelson april@hauteliving.com VICE PRESIDENT OF LUXURY PARTNERSHIPS Lauren Mosseri lauren@hauteliving.com FASHION DIRECTOR Adrienne Faurote adrienne@hauteliving.com CONTRIBUTOR

Caroline Strachan Lefelhoc Darby Kordonowy Adrienne Faurote Tim Lappen Don DiCarlo

HAUTE TIME EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Adrienne Faurote adrienne@hauteliving.com HAUTE DESIGN & HAUTE LAWYER EDITOR Esly Davis esly@hauteliving.com

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3841 CRAYTON RD.

$15,995,000 | 5 BEDS | 6 BATHS | 6,031 SQ FT

SURPASSING

$1.15 BILLION IN SALES OVER

292 BAHIA PT. $10,995,000 | 6 BEDS | 8 BATHS | 6,873 SQ FT

12 MILLION SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS REACHED

200+ COMPLETED TRANSACTIONS TOP

After 14 years of traveling the world for Chris's Major League Baseball career, we have come remarkably far, and have built an expansive network of trust and passion for the business. We started in real estate with 0 closed sales just 8 short years ago. Today, we stand side-by-side proudly surpassing $1.15 Billion in sales, with $150 Million closed in 2023. This wasn't done by accident; it was done with intention. Together, we are effective, efficient, and strategic. Whoever you are, wherever you're going, The Resop Team can confidently take you there.

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CHRIS AND KARA RESOP 239.231.6164 | THERESOPTEAM.COM CHRIS.RESOP@THEAGENCYRE.COM | THERESOPTEAM THEAGENCYRE.COM THE AGENCY NAPLES IS AN INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED FRANCHISEE.

EDITOR’S NOTE

EDITOR’S NOTE EMBRACING NAPLES WITH HAUTE LIVING Dearest friends of Naples, As I step into the luxurious world of Haute Living Naples, I find myself filled with a blend of emotions. With a prior background in philanthropy and fundraising, I am now fueled by the prospect of immersing myself in this sun-kissed paradise, exploring its hidden gems, and chronicling its unparalleled elegance. Yet, there’s also a profound sense of respect and admiration that continues to inspire me as I contemplate the incredible legacy of this community. Naples is more than just a location; it’s a city filled with history, breathtaking beauty, and a spirit of effortless sophistication. It’s where the Gulf of Mexico’s azure embrace meets palm trees’ gentle sway, creating a postcard-perfect backdrop for lives infused with adventure and joie de vivre. In this inaugural edition, we embark on a journey that unveils the multifaceted essence of Naples. We’ll delve into the opulent world of waterfront living, where architectural masterpieces redefine coastal grandeur. We’ll discover vibrant artists, where creativity pulsates through every brushstroke and melody. We’ll savor the exquisite culinary scene, where international flavors tantalize the palate and celebrate the local region’s unique culinary offerings. Throughout our exploration, we’ll meet the remarkable individuals who contribute to Naples’ vibrant tapestry – from visionary entrepreneurs and artists to seasoned chefs, philanthropists, and cultural icons. Their stories will resonate with you, leaving you inspired and enriched. Haute Living Naples is not just a magazine; it’s an invitation to embrace the very essence of our extraordinary Naples. It’s a portal to experiences that ignite your senses, nourish your soul, and leave you with a taste of pure luxury. As we toast to the closing act of 2023 and embrace the promise of 2024, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our cherished partners who have played an integral role in bringing this edition to life. Your unwavering support and dedication are the beating heart of this publication. May the coming year be one of boundless joy, prosperity, and shared adventures. From my Haute Living family to yours, happy holidays, and cheers to a magnificent 2024! With warmest regards, Marie Hernandez Rubenstein Editor-in-Chief, Haute Living Naples

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CONTENTS

ON THE COVER

ROMERO BRITTO

26 SAILING INTO SEASON Philanthropists Power Largest Galas 32 LE COLONIAL The History of Le Colonial and Its Expansion to Naples 36 L A BONNE VIE Art and Fashion Imitate Life and Each Other 40 RITZ-CARLTON CLUB A Look Into The New RitzCarlton Club Level at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples 44 TRAILBLAZING TRIO TRANSFORMS NAPLES HOSPITALITY SCENE 48 W ARREN Warren American Whiskey Kitchen Debuts in the Naples Design District

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50 B AR NAT OFFERS A FRESH TAKE ON FOOD AND WINE IN NAPLES 52 AC HOTEL AC Hotel Naples 5th Avenue Debuts in Downtown 54 T URTLE CLUB Return of The Turtle Club: A Story of Resilience, Family Heritage, and Community 57 WILMINGTON Creating a Family Office Without the Office 58 THE BICYCLETTE COOKSHOP From the Golden Arches to Culinary Cohesion: A New Partnership Cycles in Naples

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HAUTE MEDIA GROUP HAUTELIVING.COM HAUTETIME.COM HAUTERESIDENCE.COM TOTLIVING.COM

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) NICK GARCIA, ROLLS-ROYCE MOTOR CARS, BENJO ARWAS

14 COVER STORY Romero Britto: The King Of Art

Gregory Otis, Lisa Drescher, Curt Edwards, Kerry Edwards

A heritage of trust. A modern approach.

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For more than a century1, we have built deep and lasting relationships by providing innovative advice for complex situations. We invite you to leverage our experience in: •

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wilmingtontrust.com 1 Wilmington Trust traces its roots to the founding of Wilmington Trust Company in 1903. 2 Private Banking is the marketing name for an offering of M&T Bank deposit and loan products and services. Private Bankers are M&T Bank employees. Wilmington Trust is a registered service mark used in connection with services offered by certain subsidiaries of M&T Bank Corporation. Investment products are not insured by the FDIC or any other governmental agency, are not deposits of or other obligations of or guaranteed by Wilmington Trust, M&T Bank, or any other bank or entity, and are subject to investment risks, including the possible loss of the principal amount invested. ©2023 M&T Bank and its affiliates and subsidiaries. All rights reserved. AMP-5375 231114 VF

CONTENTS

HAUTE TRAVEL

108

HAUTE WATCHES

59 RAIMONDA “Be You” Inspired by Raimonda Childress 60 NAVIGATING NAPLES LUXURY REAL ESTATE WITH EXCELLENCE

64 HAUTE WATCHES One-on-one with Shark Tank star Kevin O’Leary; a look at Grand Seiko’s Heritage Collection releases; Audemars Piguet’s new 38mm The Code 11.59; and exploring Iceland with artist and explorer Zaria Forman for Vacheron Constantin’s new 35mm self-winding Overseas to mark its latest “One of Not Many” campaign 74 HAUTE MOVES Make moves in the 2024 Mercedes-AMG S63 E Performance and take a rosy ride in the 2024 Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail 78 HAUTE FASHIONE A look at Dior’s Spring-Summer 2023 season and “Plan de Paris” collection; Nicolas Ghesquière’s tranquil Cruise 2024 collection for Louis Vuitton plus L’s exploration of the world through its Fashion Eye book series; and the best of après-ski chic 98 HAUTE JOAILLERIE Ring in the season with unparalleled luxury 108 H AUTE TRAVEL The hottest new hotels in America 118 HAUTE SCENE Haute Living Events

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HAUTE JOAILLERIE

PHOTOS COURTESY OF (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) HOTEL PER LA, GRAND SEIKO, JEFFREY WESTBROOK

62 YAMRON JEWELERS Sparkle This Season with Yamron Jewelers

Meet Mackenzie Rickman: VP of Investments at Naples Wealth Planning. Mackenzie Rickman, with 23+ years in wealth management, offers personalized solutions, including risk, tax, and estate planning. She specializes in high-net-worth individuals, particularly empowering women to achieve their financial goals. Mackenzie holds a Finance degree from the University of Missouri and is based in Naples. Her Certified Financial Planner™ designation ensures the highest industry standards. She’s committed to organizing and prioritizing your financial life, preparing you for the present and future. As your partner, Mackenzie instills confidence in how your money works for you, making finance and technology accessible while safeguarding your wealth.

Mackenzie C. Rickman, CFP® MBA Vice President Investments and Planning

Email mrickman@napleswealthplanning.com Phone 573-424-2474 napleswealthplanning.com/Mackenzie-rickman

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COVER STORY

The King of art: ROMERO BRITTO ON TRANSCENDING THE WORLD OF FINE ART TO EXPAND HIS MASSIVE EMPIRE BY ADRIENNE FAUROTE PHOTOGRAPHY NICK GARCIA

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COVER STORY

estled on a side street in Midtown Miami among parking lots and other mundane structures is an ordinary, rather large industrial building, but it is not ordinary at all. In fact, it is extraordinary: it is the BRITTO Palace. When the discreet front door opens, you enter the wonderful world of internationally acclaimed artist Romero Britto. The red carpet is rolled out, his vibrant artworks fill the space, and magic can be found in every corner. There is no denying that Britto knows how to make an impression. “I was so inspired by Versailles — the place is so majestic and spectacular with all its rooms,” he says. The BRITTO Palace, home of almost 100 employees, is the headquarters of the BRITTO® and ROMERO BRITTO Fine Art brands as well as the atelier the artist goes just about every day to create and inspire. As you walk through the vast hallways, photographs of the many lives Britto has touched, from former presidents, religious leaders, billionaires, celebrities and famed athletes like Tom Brady, Michael Jordan and Roger Federer to members of the British royal family, grace the walls, each one leaving you in more awe than the last. Perhaps it is Britto’s connection to the British royals that inspired him to create this modern-day palace fit for a king. Britto first met HRH Prince Charles in 2007 at the opening of Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs at the O2 Bubble, where he designed an original hand-painted 45-foot-tall pyramid, becoming the largest installation in Hyde Park. Today, Britto has become an active board member of the Prince’s Trust, founded by Prince Charles, and has done various portraits of royal family members, including the HM Queen ELizabeth II, for more than ten years. Here, at his own palace inaugurated last year, Britto has already welcomed famed guests like Andrea Bocelli, DJ Khaled, HRH Princess Madeleine of Sweden, the Bush Family, and even the Buffetts — the impressive list of his collectors goes on. However, not just anyone can enter the Palace; each guest must

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receive an exclusive Golden Ticket as their official invitation. Because the space is not open to the public, the BRITTO Golden Ticket has become a prized possession of the Palace that can even appear in BRITTO® products and fine art shipped to millions of consumers as a surprise opportunity to visit. The place is so magical that it has even had the flag of the United States of America flown this July 26th over the US Capitol in celebration of its grand opening and in honor of Romero Britto. Dr. Lucas Vidal, global CEO of the BRITTO Group, BRITTO® brand and ROMERO BRITTO Fine Art, appointed in February 2020, points to a framed photo hanging on the wall behind him, “As you see here, Britto was good friends with Michael Jackson. We thought about doing an exclusive ticket as a way to pay tribute to Michael Jackson [combined] with the story of Willy Wonka, who is a great personality in cinema, and both of them are sources of inspiration to Britto. This is such a special place.” Michael Jackson was indeed someone who Britto will forever admire. “I was struck by him,” he says. Jackson actually hosted a party for Britto in Neverland, and Britto implemented the Golden Ticket as a nod to Jackson’s influence. It’s Britto’s deep relationships that have not only continued to impact his work but also have helped transcend his art into a thriving global lifestyle brand. Spanning over 60,000 square feet as the largest art studio in the world, the BRITTO Palace serves as a metaphor for Britto’s dynamic evolution as an artist and entrepreneur. Since Britto was a child, he fostered an undying love for art. “I never knew that I would be doing what I do today,” he reflects. “I thought I would have a job and maybe be a painter over the weekend or in the evenings. I viewed art as more of a hobby.” He actually wanted to be a diplomatic ambassador of Brazil, but when he was in law school, he realized that would not fulfill him. “I quit the idea of being a diplomat,” he says with a shy smile. “[I thought to myself], maybe I should dive into this thing called art.” For the last 30 years, Britto has expanded his empire into a dynamic portfolio of companies within the BRITTO Group: real estate, licensing, retail stores, fine art, consumer goods, food and beverage, hospitality and entertainment—totaling over $250 million. He has also become the most licensed artist in history, with over $4 billion in retail revenue since BRITTO® Licensing was established. This expansion prompts the question of how Britto has been able to evolve his work into such a successful business. “It’s been an evolution,” says Britto. “I’ve always been interested in a larger audience. Many artists just want to have their works displayed in museums, but I believe that art is too important not to share and can have a positive impact on people’s lives. My art is all about happiness, hope and love. I did several large art projects, like the opening ceremony of Super Bowl XLI, the Grammys, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, FIFA World Cup, Carnival in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) and the Olympics.”

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COVER STORY

But it’s not just Britto building the fun lifestyle brand. With Dr. Lucas Vidal as the CEO and Britto’s right-hand man, the BRITTO® brand is rapidly expanding as Vidal amplifies the ideas and creativity behind Britto’s iconic art and brings them to life beyond the canvas, especially through high quality consumer goods with an innovative design. “In 2020 the focus was on brand repositioning, rebranding, product development and on creating a completely new e-commerce platform for both products and fine art – Shopbritto.com (which we have already seen an increase in over 600% revenue in a year). Now our focus is on opening 300 BRITTO® retail stores in the next 5 years, on expanding to Asia and Middle East our fine art program that counts today with more than 215 global gallery partners and on collaborating with strategic brands. Britto is far from being just a visual artist, he has transcended the arts world. BRITTO® is a fun global brand with incredible longevity and with a beautiful mission of inspiring happiness and sharing an art that relates to all. It is totally unique and the potential is unlimited” adds Dr. Vidal. As Britto’s best friend for almost seven years, Vidal has been able to approach the brand with not just a fresh perspective but a genuine understanding of who Britto is as an artist and the scope of what he has accomplished as a businessperson. It’s clear that Vidal recognizes Britto’s rarity as a brand and an artist. “The thing about being an artist is it’s not like winning the lottery, [where] you create one piece, and that’s the moment. It’s many moments, and I think that is the difficult thing sometimes for an artist or creator — to come to a realization that it is not just one painting, one sculpture, one movie, or one book that you write. It is a combination of many things,” Britto says. “This is something I learned earlier [in my career]; there were many paintings, many sculptures, many projects — and I will keep doing it until my last breath.” For Britto and Vidal, there are still many untapped industries to explore. The dynamic duo had just come off a conference call with the world’s largest cosmetics company prior to our meeting and is about to announce a series of new collaborations in Asia (China, South Korea, Mongolia and Japan). Britto’s dreams are big. “I could always go and open something super shy and small, but I always have liked things big,” he declares. “It is really important for people to keep dreaming big — it is how we, as humans, keep evolving. Imagine, without dreaming, how could we possibly evolve?” he says, also crediting industry innovators like Sir Richard Branson, Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk. And while Britto has a number of notable collaborations with massive conglomerates like Disney, Carnival Cruise Line and Citigroup, there’s a new project on the horizon that hits a bit closer to home for him: Britto: The Art of Happiness, the biopic on the rise of Britto, from his poor childhood in Brazil to moments before arriving at Buckingham Palace to becoming one of the most famed artists in the world. The film will be produced by Kory Apton and Armando Gutierrez, also producers of Bezos and Walt Before Mickey. For Britto, the entire experience is surreal. “[For this film], I go back to my roots — it is going to be very special,” he says. “The movie is an incredible and inspirational story that people have never heard before.” Throughout his career, Britto has become known as the artist of happiness and hope at the helm

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COVER STORY

of the Happy Art Movement, and through this film he hopes that the viewers will better understand his story as an artist and see where all the hope and love came from. “A movie now, especially because I am still alive, is unbelievable,” he adds, reflecting on how he was honored at the 2012 Rio de Janeiro Carnaval, the most famous form of cultural expression in Brazil, which was astounding, as it primarily honors those who have passed. The movie, debuting in December of 2022, is for legacy, celebrating how Britto has transcended generations through his art and charisma. Britto’s art is already studied in arts programs in schools worldwide, showcasing him as a legend and an influential figure in pop and postmodern art. Romero has been awarded the title of Professor Emeritus for the Arts for Miami Dade schools, two PhDs in Art, co-founder of the Harvard International Negotiation Program and he is a speaker at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Wharton School of Business and INSEAD. But it’s not just his vibrant color palette and bold expression that has set him apart; it’s his devotion and consistency to creating pieces that provoke joy and happiness that has started a real movement, The Happy Art Movement. “I did not know at the time that [the movement] was happening; people would tell me that my art made them happy,” he recalls. “It is a universal feeling; we all hope to love life. We hope to have success and be happy, no matter where you are on the planet. And that’s what I’m celebrating here with my art. Beautiful things of life — like a light,” he says with a twinkle in his eye. There’s no denying that Britto is constantly celebrating design. He arrived for our cover shoot in a head-to-toe Dolce & Gabbana — crown and all. “I love fashion,” he says. “I love dressing up and going out to enjoy and celebrate life.” It comes as no surprise that Stefano Gabbana and Domenico Dolce have visited Romero and are dear friends of the artist. And this past summer, Britto collaborated with not only Wilson Sporting Goods in tennis, but also with Puma to create PUMA x BRITTO®, a streetwear collection featuring Britto’s signature color palette on dynamic graphics and prints. It’s imperative for Britto not to remain stagnant, whether in finding inspiration for paintings or new business ventures. Britto and Vidal’s plan for the next few years is nothing shy of monumental. “We want to expand into a new concept of franchise retail stores,” Lucas Vidal says. “Over the next 10 years, we want to have at least 1,000 stores all over the world with exclusive BRITTO® products developed by us.” Within the Palace, there are three different concept models the team is working on to perfect the franchise model. Simply put, the plan is to continue to scale, with no sight of slowing down. Yet, amid all the growth, Britto continuously reminds himself to pause and soak it all in. “Don’t forget about the moment. Live in the moment — think about the future, but try to be in the moment,” he advises, an important lesson it took him years to learn. Nevertheless, he has indeed enjoyed all the moments — all in the name of happiness.

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LOCATION: GERMAIN YACHTS, E60 PARDO YACHT

Sailing Into Season Philanthropists Power Largest Galas BY MARI HERNANDEZ RUBENSTEIN

Naples, Florida, boasts a vibrant philanthropic spirit, and at the helm of this movement stand remarkable women and a powerhouse couple. Through their unwavering dedication and passion, these event chairs have orchestrated incredible galas, raising over $1 million yearly for causes dear to their hearts. Jessica Shwedel, 2022 and 2023 chair of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) gala, champions the fight against type 1 diabetes with fierce determination. Her leadership has been instrumental in raising over $1 million annually, with a recordbreaking $1.8 million last year, fueling vital research and offering a beacon of hope for a cure. Ashley Gerry, chair of the 2024 Children’s Museum of Naples Night at the Museum gala, “C’mon Dreamhouse,” fuels the flame of childhood curiosity and wonder. Under her guidance, the event has become a pillar of the Naples community with fun dress-up themes, raising millions to provide enriching educational experiences for Naples’ young minds. Jenny Haire, prior chair of the STARability gala, leads the cause of inclusion and empowerment for individuals with disabilities. Her tireless efforts have propelled the event to unbelievable heights, raising over $3 million last year to create opportunities and enrich lives, ensuring that everyone has a chance to shine. For the last two years, 26

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Jenny has focused on co-chairing Women Rock Philanthropy. Beverly Fanning, co-chair of the 2023 Youth Haven gala, Starry Nights, dedicates her energy to protecting and nurturing vulnerable youth. Her leadership has ensured the success of this critical fundraiser, raising millions to provide shelter, education, and support, offering hope and a brighter future to countless young lives. Last year’s gala helped raise over $1.3 million for the vulnerable children of Southwest Florida. Naples’ philanthropic landscape boasts few stars brighter than Amy and John Quinn. This powerhouse couple isn’t just lighting up the social scene; they’re shining a light on mental health awareness and Naples’ youth. Serving as 2024 Honorary Chairs for Youth Haven’s Starry Nights Gala and spearheading the David Lawrence Center’s 2024 Sound Minds event, their impact ripples beyond galas and into the very critical needs of our community. The Quinns are true champions of compassion and architects of hope. As we sail into season and 2024 fundraising events for many local non-profits, these exceptional women and this dynamic couple, alongside countless others, will be the beating heart of Naples’ philanthropic landscape. Beyond fundraising events, their galas are celebrations of hope, driven by generosity and steadfast determination. As they continue to lead the charge, Naples can step into the future knowing that its foundation is built on the bedrock of compassion and the boundless power of a community united for the greater good.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ERIK KELLAR, JEWELS ARE FROM YAMRON JEWELERS

“CHAIRING” CHANGE: WOMEN PHILANTHROPISTS POWER NAPLES’ Largest Galas

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Amy and John Quinn David Lawrence Centers Sound Minds Gala, Youth Haven Starry Nights Gala IN THE VIBRANT LANDSCAPE OF NAPLES PHILANTHROPY, many shine bright because of the generosity of Amy and John Quinn. Their passion, fueled by a deep understanding of mental health challenges, has become a source of hope for countless individuals and families battling the invisible scars of emotional well-being. Their inspiration runs deep, rooted in their family legacies. Amy, a marriage and family therapist and education doctorate holder, witnessed the transformative power of helping others navigate life’s complexities. John, hailing from a lineage of military service, embodies the spirit of dedicating oneself to their community. Together, they are a force of compassion with a unique blend of professional expertise and endless empathy. Their philanthropic endeavors paint a vivid picture of their commitment. From NCEF’s mental health initiatives to the David Lawrence Centers, Kids’ Minds Matter, and Youth Haven, the Quinns are passionately dedicated to easily accessible, effective mental healthcare. However, their impact goes beyond generous donations. To improve mental health resources beyond crisis intervention, The Quinns lend their voices to initiatives that prioritize well-being and equip individuals with the tools to navigate life’s challenges. They actively work to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness, promoting awareness through personal stories and collaborative efforts. Their goal? To create a Naples that prioritizes mental health, where affordable treatment is within reach for all—without the barrier of long waitlists, and where prevention takes center stage in fostering a resilient community. They don’t measure their success in dollars or accolades; they measure it in the data-driven results demonstrated by NCEF’s research, the smiles of children empowered by Kids’ Minds Matter, and the hope rekindled in the eyes of families supported by Youth Haven. The Quinns are currently championing mental health as chairs for the 2024 David Lawrence Centers Sound Minds gala with guest speaker Brooke Shields, held on March 21st, 2024, at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburon. They are also serving as honorary chairs for Youth Haven’s Starry Nights Gala, held on March 23rd, 2024, at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburon. Their message to aspiring philanthropists is simple: “Find your passion and pursue it with unwavering commitment.” They believe that every thread of giving creates a powerful source of hope and change, from volunteering time to financial support. The Quinns are more than a power couple; they are true advocates of mental wellbeing. Their story is a call to action, a reminder that compassion can forge a brighter future for our community.

Beverly Fanning BEVERLY FANNING ISN’T JUST A PHILANTHROPIST; SHE’S A radiant spark, igniting a vibrant flame of hope and progress throughout the Naples community. Relocating full-time from Atlanta four years ago, she embraced Naples with open arms, discovering her calling in the philanthropic scene. Her passion is driven by a deep love for her new home and her parents, “My parents were hard workers. My mother volunteered for all my activities, kept our home immaculate, and had meals ready at 5 PM sharp. She poured her heart into everything she did. We did simple things as a family, like camping and taking Sunday car rides. I’m grateful I’ve never forgotten the way I was brought up and the values they instilled in me”. Beverly’s impact on Youth Haven, Southwest Florida’s only emergency and residential shelter for abused, abandoned, or neglected boys and girls, is a testament to her transformative power. For over three years, she has been mentoring Vonte, a young man she has supported through high school and paved his path to college. Though an accident dimmed his athletic aspirations of playing football, Vonte will continue his academic pursuits at Florida A&M University, fueled by Beverly’s unwavering belief in him. Keeping his love for athletics alive, she recently gifted him a new set of golf clubs, a favorite pastime she hopes to share with him. Beyond mentoring, Beverly co-chaired the 2022 American Cancer Society’s Bucket List Bash last year, raising $1.1MM for local cancer initiatives. She also supports annual events at the Naples Zoo and other local non-profit organizations, leaving a trail of positive change in her wake. Beverly’s philanthropic vision ensures essential programs receive all needed support. When asked about the importance of philanthropy in the community, Beverly’s eyes lit up with an inspiring fervor, “I believe philanthropy plays a vital role in filling the gaps where funds are needed and places where they would not have the money if we did not help or supplement the programs. It brings hope and support to those who need it most, enriching the lives of individuals and strengthening our community as a whole.” Beverly’s commitment to Youth Haven remains steadfast as she looks forward to 2024. As co-chair for the Starry Nights event, alongside Ingrid Aielli, Rufino Hernandez, and Brenda Melton, she is dedicated to making the occasion—a gala to be held on Saturday, March 23, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 11:00 PM—a success. Her tireless efforts inspire us, reminding us that even the smallest act of kindness can spark a vibrant glow in the world around us.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF ERIK KELLAR, JEWELS ARE FROM YAMRON JEWELERS

Youth Haven Starry Nights Gala

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Ashley Gerry Children’s Museum of Naples Night at the Museum Gala ASHLEY GERRY SHINES WITH UNPARALLELED BRILLIANCE. Her journey, woven from childhood empathy and nurtured by unwavering dedication, has positioned her as one of Naples’s most influential philanthropic leaders. Her canvas isn’t confined to a single cause; it’s a boundless panorama of giving. Volunteering first as a “pediatric hugger” at Golisano Children’s Hospital to spearheading crucial fundraising for JDRF and The Community School of Naples, Ashley paints a future brimming with opportunity. The Children’s Museum of Naples and the Naples Children and Education Foundation are testaments to her leadership. But Ashley truly emerged as a force of nature in the face of Hurricane Ian’s fury. Orchestrating a $1.5 million fundraising concert in just 45 days, she rallied her community, proving that even in the darkest storms, kindness can be the guiding star. “Giving back isn’t just a cause; it’s my compass,” Ashley shared, her voice echoing with quiet strength. “As long as I can, I will illuminate the path for those in need.” Her steadfast commitment isn’t driven by accolades, but by an understanding of Naples and the needs of its residents—children and families. Her vision extends far beyond individual acts, “I would like to see our local medical and mental health programs increase so that everyone has the care they need. To see the needs of families being met so children have the education, the healthcare, the afterschool care, and their overall needs being met so that they can have the opportunities to succeed later in life”. Her message is a true catalyst of change, “I am a true believer in the statement ‘If you see something, say something.’ I don’t believe in sitting around and just talking about issues and problems that you see. I think that actions speak louder than words. Taking action when you see a need is the only way.” On February 10th, 2024, she will chair the annual Night at the Museum “C’mon Dreamhouse,” an iconic evening to benefit the Children’s Museum of Naples, whose mission is to provide an exciting, inspiring environment where children and their families play, learn, and dream together. Ashley Gerry’s story isn’t just a personal triumph; it’s a testament to the power of one woman to ignite change. It’s a call to action, a reminder that within each of us lies the potential to make a difference and to illuminate the path toward a brighter future.

Jenny Haire STARability Gala, Women Rock Philanthropy JENNY HAIRE’S PASSION WASN’T A SINGLE SPARK, BUT the warm embrace of Naples itself. “I have a natural instinct to care and give back to my hometown,” she explains. Witnessing the transformative power of Naples’ renowned fundraising events, like The Bucket List Bash and Naples Winter Wine Festival, ignited a flame within her. “I fell in love, and my passion for philanthropy was born,” she says, a flame that has steadily illuminated her journey.

Jenny’s simple yet profound goal is to inspire a sense of shared responsibility to encourage everyone to find their own way to give back, be it with time, expertise, or resources. This spirit of giving is woven into the very fabric of Naples, thanks in part to her tireless efforts. “I believe accepting and including more adults with disabilities within our community is a pressing social issue,” she states. “Naples has numerous centers supporting various causes, but none specifically for the disabled. I feel this population of persons has been overlooked for too long, and it’s our personal responsibility as citizens to provide a space that enriches their daily lives.” With multiple events and fundraisers spearheaded on her behalf over the next months, Jenny supports The Women’s Foundation private wine tasting event at Bleu Provence on January 11th as sponsor chair; The STAR gala – scheduled for February 3rd at The RitzCarlton Naples, Tiburon; and the exclusive patron party at the historic Keewaydin Lodge benefitting the STARability Foundation. Jenny’s success can be seen in the faces of individuals empowered to join a cause, in the awareness raised, and in the partnerships forged. Addressing the challenges of her community, like engaging newcomers and inspiring younger generations, is a constant pursuit, one she tackles with perseverance, enthusiasm, and dedication. Her future vision for Naples is one of inclusivity and shared responsibility. Her philanthropy plays a vital role in generating support for those in need, ensuring that every thread, every act of kindness, contributes to a brighter future. Jenny Haire’s story is a call to action for us all. Her infectious optimism, smile, and kindness, along with her unwavering belief in the power of community and her dedication to making a difference, serve as a beacon of hope for the Naples community. From gala co-chair to advocate for inclusion, Jenny’s impact is a symphony of change, one note at a time, echoing through the lives of all those she has touched.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF ERIK KELLAR, JEWELS ARE FROM YAMRON JEWELERS

One of Jenny’s most profound contributions shines through her dedication to the STARability Foundation, whose mission is to empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Cooney family’s dedication to the Trailblazer Academy, a vocational program for adults with disabilities, touched her deeply, and she became an integral part of their fundraising efforts. Steering the STARability Gala during the challenging COVID year stands out as a testament to her resilience and resourcefulness. Faced with unprecedented challenges, she orchestrated “Dining for the Stars,” a series of twelve intimate dinner parties that raised a staggering $1.2 million, exceeding expectations and showcasing her power of creative adaptation.

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Jessica Shwedel Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) JESSICA’S STORY IS ONE OF RESILIENCE, LOVE, AND DEDICATION. It began with a diagnosis, a challenge, and a mother’s unwavering commitment to her daughter’s health. When Jessica’s daughter, Leah, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 5, the world shifted. Nothing could have prepared Jessica for this new reality, but her maternal instincts kicked in, transforming her into a warrior for her daughter’s well-being. Jessica’s advice to her younger self emphasizes the crucial importance of cherishing good health. She acknowledges the sacrifices she would make to give her daughter just one carefree day without the constant worry of managing blood sugar levels. Driven by an unwavering love and a fierce determination to find a cure, Jessica embarked on a journey into philanthropy. Inspired by the strength of her grandmother, a fighter against multiple illnesses, Jessica knew she had to do more. She needed to raise awareness, advocate for better treatment options, and ultimately find a cure for type 1 diabetes. Monetary gains don’t measure Jessica’s success in the philanthropic realm; her impact measures it. She tirelessly educates others about the complexities of type 1 diabetes, dispelling myths and highlighting the daily struggles of living with this chronic illness. Through her efforts, Jessica helps others understand the invisible battle her daughter fights daily. Jessica dedicates her energy to supporting organizations like JDRF, Help A Diabetic Child, and The New York Stem Cell Foundation. She believes that stem cell research holds immense potential for type 1 diabetics, and she actively supports these efforts to offer them a brighter future. Through her philanthropic work, Jessica has learned that there’s no greater feeling than helping others. While she shies away from being labeled a “power woman,” her dedication and achievements speak volumes. Her story inspires others to look beyond themselves and find fulfillment in making a difference in the lives of others. Jessica’s passion for raising awareness and supporting the type 1 diabetes community shines through her involvement in various projects. She has consistently gone above and beyond, from organizing free dental care for those in need to leading fundraising walks and chairing galas. Jessica’s leadership as chair of the JDRF Hope Gala notably raised the most money for the local chapter. Beyond her efforts, Jessica empowers her daughter, Leah, to become an advocate for herself and other type 1 diabetics. Their joint efforts demonstrate the true meaning of collective impact, including speaking engagements with congress members and participation in awareness campaigns. As a valiant advocate in the search for a cure, Jessica’s dedication brings hope to those diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. She stands as a remarkable example to those aspiring to create positive change in the world.

The History of Le Colonial and Its Expansion to Naples Le Colonial celebrates 30 years of success and expansion in the restaurant industry with the influence of the French Colonial period in the 1920s. BY DARBY KORDONOWY

Rick Wahlstedt, the professional squash player turned legendary restaurateur and owner and co-founder of iconic Le Colonial, hails from Sweden. He is still an active squash player who competes and is preparing for the World Masters in Amsterdam in August.

Haute Living (HL): Why is Le Colonial expanding to Naples? Rick Wahlstedt (RW): Historically, Naples on the West Coast has been a popular destination for winter escapes, especially for those escaping the harsh Midwest winters. However, following the pandemic, there has been a noticeable shift. Even people from the East Coast are increasingly drawn to Naples, strengthening its market presence. This shift can be attributed in part to a younger clientele moving to the area, like those coming from the East Coast, such as Boston, New York, and Palm Beach. Le Colonial had already established a presence in Naples indirectly through its longstanding restaurant in Chicago, which has become somewhat of an institution there. Many had asked if

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we would open on the West Coast, but we were initially cautious about operating seasonal restaurants. Nevertheless, as Florida experienced a rejuvenation during the pandemic, we decided to take a chance. Despite the grim circumstances, Le Colonial managed to fare reasonably well during the pandemic by offering takeout and delivery services, which were new ventures for us. We pursued location leases, starting with Lake Forest near Chicago, then Delray, and finally Naples. Opting to drive between Naples and Delray rather than fly made logistical sense. We felt a strong connection to Naples even before opening, making the decision straightforward. Fifth Avenue is a beautiful spot, and Naples, with its harmonious community, seemed like a perfect fit. Given the great location, we

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LE COLONIAL

Haute Living Naples sits down with Rick Wahlstedt to discuss his history in the restaurant industry, the expansion of Le Colonial to Naples, and what it takes to make it as a restaurant entrepreneur.

FEATURE hope to contribute positively to the community, especially for those unfamiliar with our brand. Being on Fifth Avenue, you know, it has to offer a complete package, not just a couple of great restaurants. It should include excellent retail, office spaces, and hotels. It’s about creating a comprehensive experience. I believe Naples has evolved positively over the past 10 to 15 years, becoming even better. We’re thrilled about it. HL: How did you get your start in the restaurant industry? RW: When I came to New York from Europe, fresh off the boat, it was a thrilling time. Playing squash, participating in tournaments, and working in restaurants at night while practicing during the day filled my schedule. It was a fabulous period in my life. Keith McNally was a key influencer in my journey. I initially came to New York to play the Chivas Regal Open at the Uptown Racquet Club. I was offered a job as a squash instructor at Uptown, where I met Keith, who was passionate about squash. It was this friendship that eventually led me into the restaurant industry. My first restaurant job was with Keith at The Odeon. I recall he asked me if I knew anything about bartending, to which I truthfully replied that I didn’t. That’s where my journey in the restaurant world truly began. It worked well with squash as I could work at night, practice during the day, and even have weekends off for tournaments. From there, I worked my way up, bartending, waiting tables, running the kitchen, and eventually becoming a maître d’ at Indochine with Keith’s brother, Brian’s restaurant. This journey led me to become more intrigued by the restaurant business, although I was fired a couple of times for being less than proficient. I never thought I’d make a career out of it until I joined Indochine, where I worked the door and really got a feel for the industry. It opened my eyes, and I started getting involved in the restaurant business on my own. Yet, squash remained a significant part of my life, helping me manage stress in the often-stressful world of restaurants. One interesting aspect was that the squash community was quite different from the restaurant community. This exposure allowed me to meet a diverse range of people and create friendships across various domains. The restaurant industry introduced me to photographers, models, and more, broadening my horizons. I even dabbled in modeling while simultaneously pursuing squash and the restaurant business. It was a fantastic period of exploration that arose from my involvement in these worlds. At one point, thanks to connections from squash, I ventured into Wall Street. A fellow professional squash player had a firm called Jonathan Foster & Company, which provided a unique experience. Eventually, I reached a crossroads and had to make a choice. I couldn’t balance Wall Street and the restaurant business anymore, and in 1993, we opened Le Colonial. That was the turning point, and I’ve been on this path ever since, with other restaurant ventures along the way. So, it was a journey that started with squash and led me into the dynamic and diverse world of the restaurant industry. HL: How did your mentor Keith McNally’s restaurants transform the restaurant scene? RW: The Odeon significantly transformed the downtown dining scene, specifically in Soho and Tribeca. When The Odeon opened, it played a pivotal role in drawing people to Tribeca, back when it was largely warehouses and not much residential presence. Keith McNally, who’s been in New York for a long time, initially worked at 15 Avenue along with his brother Brian. They helped create a

downtown scene, culminating in the opening of The Odeon in Tribeca, which was groundbreaking at the time. This was before I arrived in New York, and they continued to pioneer and expand into different neighborhoods. They had a keen understanding of downtown and garnered a dedicated following, which made a significant impact on the New York restaurant scene, particularly in the 80s and 90s. They redefined what a restaurant meant—it became more than just good food; it was about entertainment, celebrities, bringing together diverse groups, and creating a special ambiance. They attracted top figures from various industries, turning it into a melting pot of interesting people, from famous painters to actors, neighborhood regulars, and more. It was a time when a great restaurant was about the mix of clients, both young and old, from all walks of life, making New York truly unique in those days. HL: How have you seen the restaurant landscape change? RW: Back in those days, restaurant success hinged on one crucial element: a review in The New York Times. A negative review from them could spell the end of your business. It wasn’t about social media reviews or individual opinions as it is today; it was The New York Times review that made all the difference. Today, it’s a whole new ball game. With everyone being a reviewer on various platforms, the landscape has dramatically changed. Social media allows people to instantly share their experiences, making it a far cry from the past. HL: Working at Indochine had a profound impact on you and transformed your course in the restaurant industry? Can you describe this? RW: You’re absolutely right. It was a game-changer for me, and I think it happened partly because I was a bit older at that time. I had grown up a bit, and this change steered me towards continuing my journey in the restaurant world. HL: Can you describe the first restaurant you opened? RW: I ventured into the restaurant world after leaving my military service days behind. My partner at the time, Ulrich Trojaborg, a dancer in the New York City Ballet, shared Danish roots with me, adding a unique connection to our venture. We opened a FrenchScandinavian restaurant called Punsch across from Lincoln Center in the late ‘80s, which enjoyed success for a few years. However, success was accompanied by its share of mistakes and challenges. After about three years, we had to close the restaurant, and I was devastated. The experience of losing something you’ve poured your heart into is quite different from not having it in the first place. It left a deep impact on me, leading me to step away from the restaurant business. I believe in learning from one’s mistakes, and this experience was a valuable life lesson. So, I left the restaurant industry and embarked on a new journey on Wall Street. It was a completely different world, and I found myself loving the change. HL: How did the concept of Le Colonial form? RW: During my time on Wall Street, an old friend from the restaurant business, acclaimed restaurateur Jean Denoyer, approached me, suggesting we collaborate on something new. I agreed, but with one condition: I wanted to create a concept that could potentially expand beyond New York if it proved successful, an unusual approach at the time. I didn’t want to limit myself to just one location. I wanted to embrace the industry I loved and create an experience around cuisine that could potentially grow. This was when the idea of a Vietnamese restaurant started taking shape. We found the perfect location on 57th Street, and that’s when my journey into this concept truly began.

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HL: How has Le Colonial transformed since its opening in 1993? RW: When we opened in Houston in River Oaks, we redid the entire restaurant’s design, as well as the culinary inspiration, creating an experience, a culinary theater, and an environment where people can immerse themselves. I wanted to do something different, and the opportunity at River Oaks came, and it seemed perfect for Le Colonial. However, I didn’t want to repeat the same thing. I aimed to change it and really brighten it up, make it less heavy, and bring in more light than what we were used to in New York and Chicago. We brought in our new designer, Mark Knauer of Knauer Inc., and we kept the bones of Le Colonial, but significantly elevated the game, both in terms of design and culinary aspects, focusing on Vietnamese cuisine. My business partner of 30 years, Joe King, and I work very well with Mark Knauer, who is easy to work with, and he brings a fresh feel to our projects. HL: Can you describe the transformation of the Le Colonial culinary menu since 1993? RW: Vietnamese cuisine is relatively limited compared to Chinese, for instance. You go to a Chinese restaurant, and you get menus six pages long, right? You have Cantonese, Szechuan, Beijing, Mandarin, and numerous other regional varieties. Vietnamese cuisine, on the other hand, is straightforward, essentially a national cuisine with some differences between the North and the South. So, I felt the cuisine needed authenticity, which we’ve always maintained on the Vietnamese side and still do. But we branched out a little, incorporating influences from Cambodia and Malaysia, among others. This made the menu more interesting, especially for patrons who visit two or three times a week, which we have many. That’s the path we’ve been on since then, expanding to Atlanta after Houston. Then, we moved from Rush Street to Oak Street in Chicago, doubling our volume, followed by Lake Forest and now Florida. We’re also starting construction in Denver, Colorado this January. HL: What are some successful lessons you’ve learned from Le Colonial throughout the years? RW: The success in Houston really catapulted the new Le Colonial. What I’m trying to say is that you still need to push forward. Even if you have a full room, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best it can be. You have to keep evolving, or you get left behind and become outdated, which we’re trying to avoid at all costs. So, innovating and being forward-thinking has always been our approach. HL: Can you describe your approach for expansion? RW: In the 80s and 90s, expanding was not commonly thought of.

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Many who tried usually failed, to tell you the truth. It wasn’t the right time. Back then, there were only a few cities in this country where you could succeed with a concept like Le Colonial. The demand and price points elsewhere didn’t match. So, New York, Chicago, and LA were viable, but not places like San Diego or Boston. Today, however, the landscape has changed. I prefer not to enter prime markets like New York, Chicago, or LA, or even European cities like Paris or London. Instead, I focus on slightly secondary markets, where you can make a more significant impact and become more integrated into the community. Nowadays, you can open a great restaurant almost anywhere in America, and it will be appreciated. This shift is largely due to the internet, the quest for better products, and increased knowledge among consumers. It’s actually easier today to expand restaurants, or even hotels, than it was back then. You don’t have to be confined to a single city. For example, Keith McNally has expanded to multiple locations in New York, but it took him about 30 years to open his first restaurant outside of New York, which I believe was in London, his hometown. HL: How do you choose your locations for Le Colonial? RW: It’s sort of a gut feeling about what’s right and wrong for what we do. And so, it’s not a science-based decision about where to go and how to do it; it’s more of a gut feeling about which markets to enter and which ones not to pursue for various developments. We usually work directly with a developer, whether it’s a hotel owner or a mixed-use retail developer, or a landlord in general. They usually come to us and present us with an opportunity. We don’t try to force a square peg into a round hole. And I guess that’s the question, right? To do what feels natural. And I guess, over the years, with 35 years in the industry, you develop some gut feelings about what to do and what not to do. HL: How will Le Colonial in Naples differ from other locations? RW: In Naples, we aim to make Le Colonial unique, offering dishes and cocktails that are tailored to the local taste. While a significant portion of the menu features our classic dishes, around 30% of our menu will showcase new, region-specific creations, particularly focusing on seafood due to the Gulf of Mexico’s influence. Expect dishes like a fantastic branzino and a lemongrass steak that’s sliced thinly and incredibly delicious. Our goal is to make each Le Colonial location one-of-a-kind, respecting the local community and its preferences. Our Naples menu will reflect Florida’s love for fresh seafood, with some unique additions. Vietnamese cuisine is naturally healthy and light, which resonates with the current health-consciousness trend. We’re working with local farms to source high-quality ingredients, be it meat, chicken, or vegetables, and pushing the boundaries of freshness and quality. We’re confident this approach will resonate with diners, especially in Florida. Additionally, we’re introducing a brand-new cocktail program, a result of our collaboration with Employees Only, a top-rated cocktail bar in New York. This program will debut first in Naples and Delray. HL: Can you describe Le Colonial’s cocktail program collaboration with Employees Only? RW: It’s quite special since I have a history with Employees Only’s owner, Bill Gilroy. We were roommates back in the day and started our bartending careers together in 1986. It’s remarkable how paths reconnect over time. This collaboration aims to bring something distinct to Naples. With our collaboration with Employees Only, we’re striving to create something unique and fast to prepare. Personally, I’m more

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LE COLONIAL

The concept drew inspiration from the architectural and cultural elements of 1920s French colonial Vietnam, as well as influences from movies like Indochine. The talented late designer Greg Jordan, who hailed from New Orleans, also added his touch to the concept. This fusion of ideas and influences created a romantic and timeless ambiance that has stood the test of time. The French Quarter in New Orleans and Greg’s favorite restaurant, Galatoire’s, played a role in shaping the design. We aimed to capture the essence of these influences, especially in the front room. The design was aimed at transporting our guests to a different time and place, making them feel warm and romantic, even on a cold, snowy day. This design concept has proven to be enduring, as we’ve been in business for over 30 years. It’s a testament to the power of creating an immersive dining experience that resonates with our patrons.

inclined towards classic cocktails and not too sweet. One cocktail I’d recommend is the “Old Cuban” made with rum, champagne, and bitters, providing a fresh cocktail. It’s a fantastic choice. Additionally, we have a “Lychee Martini” on the menu, which is wonderful, and I believe everyone will enjoy our entire selection. Employees Only is renowned worldwide for their cocktail expertise. They even participate in global competitions, showcasing their skills. Collaborating with them to create something unique for Le Colonial is an exciting opportunity.

involving skilled artists from Europe, including Russia and Sweden, to create unique murals and paintings in the Naples location. Our aim is to set our restaurants apart in terms of design and ambiance.

HL: Will there be a happy hour at Le Colonial? RW: Yes, we will host a “Saigon Social” during those hours, typically from 3 pm to 5 pm. The dining room opens at 4 pm because Naples’ diners prefer to eat early. Our hope is to bring a bit of late-night culture to Naples as well, catering to a younger crowd looking for late-night lounges.

HL: What advice do you have for restaurant entrepreneurs? RW: We all make mistakes, and we try not to make the same mistakes twice. In fine dining, I believe it’s important to “walk before you run.” My other advice is to do one thing and do it really well, putting 110% of the focus into whatever that is. I often speak to young entrepreneurs, and when they’re talking about doing a new restaurant or a new concept, it’s not about doing one; it’s about what they’re going to do when they have 100 of them. They jump too far, too quickly. So, my advice is to walk before you run. Succeed and put all your effort and passion into your first concept, and don’t worry about whether you are going to go public or you’re going to have 100 of them.

HL: Are there any unique design details for Naples? RW: Absolutely, we pay great attention to the details in our design,

Le Colonial opens Thursday, December 14, at 4 pm on 5th Ave South. 457 5th Ave S, Naples, FL 34102

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La Bonne Vie Art and Fashion Imitate Life and Each Other BY DARBY KORDONOWY

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF NICK MELE

IN THE HEART OF THIRD STREET SOUTH, A UNIQUE collaboration is unfolding that beautifully merges the worlds of art, photography, and fashion. “La Bonne Vie: Art and Fashion Imitate Life and Each Other,” is an initiative that will showcase the captivating photographs of talented photographer Nick Mele along with an exclusive shopping experience. The event, running from February to March 2024, is not just a celebration of artistic and fashion excellence, but also a powerful gesture of community support. At the Camargo Courtyard on Third Street South, visitors will be greeted by the extraordinary works of Nick Mele, a photographer renowned for his ability to capture the essence of life’s moments. The exhibition is a testament to Mele’s keen eye for detail,

theatrical approach, and his unique perspective on the world. Alongside Mele’s art, the event features an array of shopping opportunities presented in collaboration with esteemed names like Ala von Auersperg, A Mano, Cameron Silver of DECADES, Herend, Vintage Couture Jewelry from MDVII by Susie Hoimes, vintage and original jewelry from Kim Palmer, woven hats and antique ribbons by Sarah Bray Bermuda, and much more. Ala von Auersperg, an artist and designer, has immersed herself in the very world that Nick Mele captures through his lens for as long as she can remember. Her elegant clothing designs effortlessly channel the essence of this world, radiating grace and glamour. Together, von Auersperg and Mele usher in an era of sophisticated living and timeless allure.

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and ever-evolving selection of antique, vintage, and custommade items. Additionally, expect surprise appearances by guest vendors, offering further insights into the enchanting, witty, and desirable world depicted in Nick Mele’s photographs. This blend of art and commerce will seamlessly offer attendees a chance to immerse themselves in a world where every piece tells a story.

A Mano, under the astute leadership of Adam Mahr, embodies the essence of what Nick Mele’s photographs encapsulate. With a history spanning decades, A Mano has established itself as the premier destination for decorations, tabletop pieces, gifts, and more in both Washington and Naples, boasting a clientele that extends across the nation. Within the collaborative space at Third Street South, you will discover a carefully curated

This initiative supports “Women Lifting Women,” a fundraising initiative by the Women’s Foundation of Collier County. This noble cause is at the heart of “La Bonne Vie,” symbolizing the community’s commitment to uplifting and empowering women through meaningful initiatives. Proceeds for “Women Lifting Women” will include donations to help senior women who find themselves homeless.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF NICK MELE

Well Made Home is set to craft exclusive offerings for the collaborative space at Third Street South, where exceptional interior design and bespoke furnishings will take center stage. Their collection encompasses a wide range of fabrics, wallpapers, and decorative items, catering to both trade professionals and retail customers alike.

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A Look Into The New Ritz-Carlton Club Level at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples Indulge in paradise with an all-access lounge to luxury with elevated culinary presentations, curated leisure experiences, and timeless sophistication. BY DARBY KORDONOWY

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE RITZ-CARLTON, NAPLES.

THE RITZ-CARLTON, NAPLES, SETS THE NEW STANDARD for hotel club experiences. The recently renovated beachfront property along Florida’s Gulf Coast showcases a new 14-floor Vanderbilt Tower with 70 club-level rooms, including two-story suites. Its main highlight is the new Ritz-Carlton Club Level Lounge spanning 4,000 square feet, making it the largest Ritz-Carlton Club Level Lounge to date. Guests can immerse themselves in Paradise Coast in the Club Level Lounge, designed with soft, blue hues, patterns of tides rolling in, vintage postcards of Naples lining the walls, and expansive, floor-to-ceiling windows with mesmerizing Gulf of Mexico views. The Club Level’s inviting lounge and dining room boasts a dedicated full-service Club Only Bar complete with gold-handle beer taps and a full selection of wine, champagne, and spirits, along with a bartender. It’s the perfect spot for a pre- or post-evening drink. The lounge offers farm pop-ups and five daily culinary presentations showcasing sushi rolls, charcuterie, crudités, and more. Guests may also choose from an array of small plates throughout the day, including an action station with different daily offerings. Guests also have access to hot and cold beverages and 24-hour access to the Club’s exclusive Grab and Go. If a guest gets in after the Club has closed for the

day, they are able to use their room key to access a gourmet grab and go that includes a variety of hot and cold non-alcoholic beverages, snacks, sweets, and fruit for weary guests checking in very late or leaving very early. The Grab and Go is available throughout the day for a quick bite on the go. The Club Level also delights its resort guests in a media room with soft seating, a television, and glass doors for privacy. Guests have used it as a small breakout room, office, or a quiet place to watch the game. Kids can entertain themselves in a whimsical play area in the Club Kids Room equipped with a floor-to-ceiling chalkboard, lots of little nooks to explore, books, games, and a television ready with kid-friendly movies and shows. Parents are asked to watch their children in the Club Kids Room. Club Level guests also enjoy perks such as an exclusive, dedicated checkin, curated local experiences both on- and off-property, and spacious, sophisticated guest rooms. When guests want to explore the waterfront resort, there’s luxury awaiting their every desire. Foodies can enjoy an elevated, marble-clad Lobby Bar with a celebratory menu designed by a master sommelier starring more than 50 champagnes

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Vacationers can soak up the sun in comfort and luxury poolside in the new, fully enclosed, air-conditioned bungalows with plush seating, ceiling fans, and cascading doors for privacy. Plus, pool-goers can enjoy their own private bath, television, entertainment system, and full-

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service bar for refreshments in their private bungalow! For wellzess seekers, enjoy The Spa, now offering a large fitness center with the newest equipment. Plus! A fitness studio for yoga, and other wellness classes. The second studio is for Pilates and is equipped with five Pilates reformers, classed are offered daily. Finally, The Spa café, =H20+ has reopened for the season and serves healthy, light, and satisfying dishes that can be enjoyed inside or on The Spa’s roof overlooking the adult pool. The rooftop is also an amazing space to take a dip in the mineral pool and catch some sun. Kindly note that The Spa is exclusively for hotel guests and guests of The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón. The Salon is open to the public and offers nail services, hair, and make-up. 280 Vanderbilt Beach Rd, Naples, FL 34108

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE RITZ-CARLTON, NAPLES.

and sparkling wines. The Lobby Bar offers a ‘Signature Champagne-Tasting Experience’ paired with caviar and deluxe bites such as crispy tuna and wagyu truffle sliders with gold leaf. Epicureans can also savor gourmet experiences at the resort’s newest restaurants, including Sofra, a vegetable-forward restaurant offering Eastern Mediterranean fare, Moka, serving coffees made from hand-picked beans selected in partnership with a thirdgeneration roasting family, and beloved resort favorites, The Grill and Gumbo Limbo.

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Trailblazing Trio Transforms Naples Hospitality Scene The innovative team behind District, The Kitchen & The Mini Bar, Staff Only, and The Alley are transforming the hospitality landscape in Naples. BY DARBY KORDONOWY

NAPLES, FLORIDA, IS WITNESSING A TRANSFORMATIVE MOMENT in its hospitality sector, thanks to the visionary efforts of three seasoned professionals – Christopher Shucart, Marty Kenney, and Christopher Lee. These dynamic entrepreneurs have combined their distinct backgrounds in construction, development, entrepreneurship, and the food and beverage industry to create a multi-concept destination that includes an outdoor island oasis offering ‘Super Brunch,’ Naples’ first speakeasy, a relaxed, upscale lounge, a New Yorkthemed alley bar with late-night bites, and weekly live music, all

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within one walkable location in the Naples Design District. Christopher Shucart, an entrepreneur with more than 20 years of experience in construction and commercial real estate development, serves as the president of JCS Realty Group. His expertise has been pivotal in transforming the physical space of the project. Shucart is also working to bring the first rooftop restaurant, Prime Social Reserve, to 5th Avenue South through a partnership with Cameron Mitchell Restaurants. Marty Kenney has been in the hospitality industry since he was 14 years old. His journey began with owning his first bar when

he was 22, and he hasn’t looked back since then. He also owns Sidebar, a craft cocktail and wine bar in downtown Naples. Christopher Lee started bartending in New York, then moved to Florida in 2008, where he worked at the Ritz-Carlton for eight years and met Marty. Afterward, he left the Ritz to start a coconut water company with Kenney. He later joined and opened Continental Naples and worked for D’Amico’s for about four and a half years. Lee also earned his Sommelier certification and worked at some prominent clubs. Most recently, he worked his way up to a partner position at Truluck’s, all while running his consulting company, Lee Consulting.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE LOS ANGLE

“We’re excited to bring something new and innovative to the Naples area, catering to a younger demographic,” expressed Lee. “We want to revolutionize the local scene and offer experiences that people have been craving. We are progressing with some newer venues that are not the same thing in Naples.” The conception for this hospitality project entitled CMC Concepts was conceived about three years ago but faced initial delays due to city-related challenges. The concept was refined and resumed about a year and a half later, with Lee expressing interest in joining the team. This collaboration led to weekly meetings to detail out their innovative restaurant and bar concepts, combining Shucart’s real estate acumen, Kenney’s operational expertise, and Lee’s culinary and beverage finesse. Selecting the right location is often a pivotal decision for any business venture. In the case of this project on Central Avenue, Shucart, who owns the real estate, had a clear vision for the property. While the location initially consisted of little more than parking spaces and a driveway, Shucart saw its potential for something greater. Having traveled extensively and drawn inspiration from diverse concepts, Shucart envisioned creating something truly unique in Naples. His time spent in the Keys, with its eclectic offerings, provided valuable insights into what could be achieved. The goal was to introduce a fun and high-quality atmosphere with an exceptional food and beverage program, setting this venue apart from the existing establishments in the area. A significant turning point in the project occurred on September 28, 2022, when Hurricane Ian struck Southwest Florida, causing severe flooding and rendering The Wine Store and MY Shower Door unable to reopen. The trio made a bold decision to seize the opportunity presented by the circumstances rather than wait several years. They quickly pivoted, embracing the challenges as a chance to reimagine and reshape their venture. In a remarkably short timeframe, they set to work, envisioning what this venue, which is now occupied by District, Staff Only, and The Alley, could become and how it could operate. “The biggest challenge is that you come up with the vision, but executing the vision is always challenging, even in this market, especially with construction costs, labor, material availability, and all these things that make the barrier to entry of building something from scratch very difficult,” Shucart reflected. “You have to have wherewithal, patience, knowledge, money, and everything to make it through the gauntlet of what it takes to build anything these days.” From District to Staff Only to The Kitchen & The Mini Bar, each place has a totally different ambiance and menu offering. District has an elevated lounge-style atmosphere featuring dark tones. Don’t expect

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high-energy EDM music here; this space is a luxe lounge escape with ambient music. District’s menu features craft cocktails and elevated small plates, with 11 menu items in total. Cocktails include the ‘PearA-Chute’ cocktail infused with Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey, pear puree, lemon, and Madagascar vanilla, and the ‘District Espresso-Tini’ with a signature house cold brew, Kahlua, spices, Caffe Borghetti, and chocolate bitters. The meat and cheese boards are elevated, featuring unique items like duck prosciutto and sage-infused cheddar. The ‘Stacked Dish’ includes sushi-grade Hawaiian ahi tuna, avocado, and a seaweed salad and is a fan favorite, along with ‘Prime Swine’ with the center cut pork loin, Boursin, and aged balsamic reduction with crostini crackers. The speakeasy, Staff Only, hidden within the walls of District, has a completely different aesthetic with 1920’s and 1930’s jazz music. It’s dimly lit and incredibly intimate in nature, with only 20 seats, a strict no-cell-phone policy, and a 90-minute sit. Staff Only operates purely as a beverage outlet, with no food service. This venue is reservation only through District’s website, scroll to the bottom and click on Staff Only. Staff Only focuses on prohibition-style cocktails. The menu is divided up two ways: traditional prohibition-style cocktails and 2000s and beyond that are rifts of prohibition-style cocktails with a twist. Offmenu items are also available. Indulge in cocktails such as ‘The Flapper’ inspired by the women of the 20s who had a modern style and sexual attitude towards vanilla vodka, Passoa, mango, and champagne, and the ‘Get Naked and Have Fun,’ a riff on the 1900’s Hanky Panky by Ada Coleman from the Savoy Hotel, London. This inviting cocktail is made with Averna, Four Roses Single Barrel, strawberries, lemon, and gomme. At Staff Only, there are private liquor and wine lockers, with a few still currently available. Moving outside to The Kitchen & The Mini Bar, guests walk into a vibrant, upscale island-like oasis with greenery, pastel colors, IPE wood decking, and shiplap. Other elements include an Instagram-worthy VW bus with a festive light-up shark and rows of lit green palm trees that transport you to a paradise escape. Each table has its own speaker and heater, and there are misting fans throughout the restaurant, creating comfort and ease for all guests. Patrons can soak up the island vibes and live music on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Foodies and cocktail lovers can enjoy a selection of craft cocktails and frozen drinks at The Kitchen & The Mini Bar. For cocktails, try the frozen ‘Yuzu Sake Lemonade’ made with citron vodka, yuzu sake, and lemon; the delicious ‘Weekend Water-melon’ infused with Ketel One cucumber mint, watermelon juice, and honey, and the ‘Shaken Tiramisu’ concocted with signature cold brew, vanilla vodka, and creme de cacao. Seeking a mocktail? Opt for the calming ‘CBD Lavender Spritz.’ On the food side, the menu features American fare with an island twist. Everything is à la carte, so everything is mini and built for people to enjoy multiple items on the menu. Enjoy options like filet mignon chimichurri and organic grilled chicken skewers with a pineapple Island slaw along with a carnitas taco bowl, a pimento smash burger, as well as several different sliders, fish bites, lobster rolls, and the best coconut shrimp in town according to the team.

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CMC Concepts’ commitment extends beyond its walls. They prioritize sustainability, using pressed palm plates from fallen branches, pressed agave utensils, fully compostable coffee cup and smallwares. The team behind The Kitchen & The Mini Bar also partnered with Captains for Clean Water to create a unique mural and purified water station. The Kitchen & The Mini Bar is set to unveil ‘Super Brunch’ every Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 2:30 pm beginning on New Year’s Eve. This will offer phenomenal, crave-worthy brunch-style food in a casual, relaxed setting with live music. The Kitchen & The Mini Bar is also planning to host a monthly themed brunch on the last Sunday of every month. Lastly, the team’s final concept, The Alley, will offer a New York City alley experience indoors, serving as one of the entrances to The Mini Bar. It will feature approximately 40 seats and a bar, and serves as a temperature-controlled space, providing shelter in case of adverse weather. The Alley will serve cocktails, wine, beer, mocktails, and late-night dishes.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE LOS ANGLE

“Every outlet has its own liquor selection and its own menu, and we tried not to crossover; we want it to feel like you are in a different bar,” added Lee. “We want the guests to have four different experiences.” District, Staff Only, and The Kitchen & The Mini Bar now welcome guests and aims to be a one-stop destination catering to various tastes and preferences. The team is excited about introducing new and innovative concepts to Naples, catering to a younger demographic, and driving the evolution of the local hospitality scene. The Alley is poised to open in early 2024, adding another dimension to this multifaceted venue and starting a new chapter in Naples’ hospitality story. 1200 Central Ave, Naples, FL 34102

FEATURE

Warren American Whiskey Kitchen Debuts in the Naples Design District Warren American Whiskey Kitchen recently opened in The Collective Naples in the Naples Design District. BY MARI HERNANDEZ RUBENSTEIN

Haute Living Naples gets a first take from Jeffrey John, CEO of Damn Good Hospitality Group, on what the upscale contemporary American restaurant and whiskey kitchen boasting an extensive whiskey library offers for food and beverage enthusiasts. Haute Living (HL): Explain the concept of Warren American Whiskey Kitchen. What can guests expect? Jeffrey John (JJ): Warren is the embodiment of casual sophistication, from our design to our culinary program to our unique and expansive whiskey and cocktail program. The brand was imagined to pay homage to my late Uncle Warren John, and each portion of the concept was created to bring his spirit to life. Guests can expect South Florida’s largest whiskey library,

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with seasoned Spiritual Advisors on hand to help guide them through any tasting experience, expert cocktails, and excellent Contemporary American cuisine in a lively and upscale environment. HL: What are some food highlights at Warren? JJ: The menu at Warren Naples features many signature dishes from our Delray location like ‘Glorias KFC’ (Korean Fried Chicken), our ‘Roasted Cauliflower,’ ‘Warren’s Damn Good Burger,’ and a ‘Bourbon Brined Pork Chop.’ Different from our Delray location, here, we’ll be offering a special menu for Warren Cocktail Club members with items like ‘Caviar Nuggets,’ ‘Seasonal Truffle Grilled Cheese,’ and a ‘Chocolate Bourbon Sphere.’

HL: What are some cocktail highlights at the Warren? JJ: Some of my favorites are the ‘Head of Lettuce,’ a creative and perfectly balanced vodka-based cocktail featuring romaine lettuce, extra virgin olive oil, chili oil, and black pepper; the ‘Lock and Key,’ a gin-based cocktail with pineapple, lime, and lychee flavors; and the ‘Japanese Clear Old Fashioned,’ which is a modern take on the traditional cocktail. HL: What are some standout whiskey brands that guests can experience? Any extremely rare whiskey bottles? Can guests have different tasting experiences? JJ: We work with so many unique brands; our Sazerac products will stand out the most, as a lot of these brands are some of the most sought-after in the world. Some other noteworthy, rare bottles we’ll have on hand include Pappy Van Winkle 10-year, Pappy Van Winkle 12-Year, and The Macallan Fine and Rare 1985. Warren will also bring along our proprietary DAMN GOOD barrel program offering the best bourbon made at home with single barrels of only the top juice from America’s great distilleries. In terms of tasting experiences, we plan to offer a variety, from themed whiskey and wine dinners to pop-up tastings on the patio. HL: What type of events and tasting specials will Warren host? JJ: Like our counterpart in Delray, Warren Naples will look to host an assortment of events, from exclusive spirit tastings (with a strong focus on whiskey, of course) to charitable initiatives to holiday celebrations.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF PIER GRAMEGNA

HL: What does Warren offer to the Naples community? JJ: Warren offers a space for the community to come together over the shared experience of great food and cocktails in an unmatched environment. Through Warren’s Cocktail Club, we also look to create an even stronger sense of community, with exclusive offers for members to enjoy together. HL: Describe the Cocktail Club at Warren. What should interested members expect? How do you become a member? What type of events can Cocktail Club members expect? JJ: Members of WCC will have exclusive access to a bevy of perks, including access to the entire property, including the semi-private mezzanine and exclusive lounge, reservations for seating in the library, discounts on events and cocktails, VIP invites to Damn Good Hospitality member’s trips to explore iconic distilleries and towns, special Gulfshore Playhouse benefits and more. You can become a member on this website. Membership includes your spouse.

HL: What type of private rooms can guests request at the Warren? Quantity of people for private events? JJ: WCC members will have access to a members-only lounge. Some highlights of the lounge include a tableside cocktail cart where all of the drinks will be made, a special lounge menu featuring exclusive drinks and bites, and a personal concierge for all Warren-related needs. HL: What can guests expect for brunch? JJ: Like our counterpart in Delray, we will be offering our exclusive Champagne Brunch with tiered champagne offerings along with specialty items like our ‘Bread Pudding French Toast,’ ‘Prime Short Rib Hash & Eggs,’ and ‘Chicken & Chive Waffles’ to name a few. Special to this location, we will also be offering a Happy Hour Monday-Friday from 3 pm – 5 pm with different specials each day, such as a $10 martini on Mondays, and bottomless wine on Wednesdays. Warren American Whiskey Kitchen’s hours are: Monday–Thursday 11:30 am – 10 pm Friday 11:30 am – 12 am; kitchen closes at 11 pm Saturday 11 am – 12 am; kitchen closes at 11 pm Sunday 11 am – 9 pm Happy Hour daily Monday-Friday 3 pm – 5 pm 111 10th St S. Naples, FL 34102

Bar Nat Offers A Fresh Take on Food and Wine in Naples Bar Nat, a unique establishment in Naples, Florida, has been making waves in the culinary scene. BY DARBY KORDONOWY

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BAR NAT ACTS AS A NEO-BISTRO EMPHASIZING HIGH-QUALITY, fresh, and healthy ingredients, prioritizing both the food and wine being as wholesome as possible. Neo-bistros around the world are now championing natural wines, which is a shift from older bistros that may not care about the origin of the wine as long as it tastes good. Neo-bistros offer a more casual and informal dining experience with a strong focus on quality and sustainability for healthier and fresher food. The team behind Bar Nat includes co-owner and chef Ming Yee, who was born into the restaurant industry, where his parents originally ran a Chinese restaurant before they partnered with a Japanese chef to transform it into Tokyo Sushi in 1999. Yee had the opportunity to witness the restaurant’s evolution firsthand. His dad worked as a chef, primarily handling the kitchen and cooked food items, while his mom served as a waitress. Over the years, his parents bought out the sushi chef, and his mom took charge of the sushi section. As Yee grew older, he became increasingly involved, observing the restaurant’s growth, and developing a deep appreciation for the bustling and dynamic world of a sushi chef. Yee started his own restaurant, Café Nutrients, seven years ago with the idea of creating a cozy, high-quality, and healthy space that served as an extension of your kitchen. Bar Nat offers a similar cozy and casual vibe focusing on small plates with diverse influences like Mediterranean, Puerto Rican, and a bit of Asian. They focus on natural wine, spotlighting a few ingredients without overcomplicating. It pairs well with their philosophy of simplicity and quality. “Our goal is to offer great ingredients without unnecessary extravagance,” remarked Yee. “We prefer using organic and locally grown products.” Bar Nat supports the community, local businesses, and restaurateurs. They source from various local farms like Care 2 Grow, Inyoni Organic Farm, and Earth Giving Medicinals. In contrast, co-owner Peter Rizzo’s background is rooted in the wine business, thanks to his grandfather’s influence. Rizzo would go with his grandfather at a young age down to South Boston to the railroad cars where he would journey from boxcar to boxcar tasting and selecting grapes for his grandfather’s homemade wine. Growing up around wine, it wasn’t until he became a professional wine buyer and ran a wine importing company that he truly honed his expertise. Rizzo has been part of the wine industry for 33 years, having spent most of his adult life in this field. He previously owned Natural Wine Naples before merging with Yee to open Bar Nat in September.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DIEGO SANCHEZ

“At Bar Nat, our approach is about more than just running a restaurant. It’s about nurturing a place of learning and inspiration,” said Rizzo. “We prioritize educating our team members, creating an atmosphere where they are genuinely inspired by the world of natural wine.” Bar Nat prioritizes delivering an exceptional dining experience that aligns with their mission of providing high-quality, authentic, and healthy food and wine. “We focus on covering a range of tastes, emphasizing quality and freshness,” exclaimed Yee. “I like to keep things fun and dynamic. Our concept at Bar Nat is more like an open kitchen where guests can see the preparation. It’s a unique experience, almost like a communal vibe.” So, what is natural wine? Natural wine is the return to the traditional

ways of growing grapes and making wines. That was the standard model for thousands of years. This is just re-embracing the past and celebrating wines as agricultural products. After World War II, wine slowly but surely became an industrial beverage. It started with spraying with herbicides, and then with pesticides, and then finally, the soil was so devoid of life and robbed of its nutritional value, wine began to be made with cultured yeast and synthetics, which was easier and cheaper. It is the textures, flavors, and terroir expressions that give each wine its own unique personality and energy and freshness. “Every new vintage I sell is going to be different than the year before,” said Rizzo. “My job as a wine buyer is to decide, ‘Is it as good as last year, but different? Or is it not as good and not worth buying?’ I’m making buying decisions all the time. We are trying to stay very hands-on in terms of our choices.” Bar Nat’s menu changes every week. This allows owners Rizzo and Yee to introduce their customers to new and exciting dishes constantly. “At Bar Nat, we always start with the food concept,” said Yee. “We prioritize sourcing high-quality local ingredients and build our menu around them. Once we have the food concept in place, we carefully select wine pairings that complement and enhance the flavors of the dishes. Our diverse and ever-changing menu is designed to provide our customers with a unique and educational dining experience.” As for the wine flights, they change nightly. This means that even returning customers can enjoy a different wine flight each time they visit, making it educational, enjoyable, and a memorable experience. In one evening, a wine spectator can travel the world and experience a spectrum of flavors, personalities, and styles through the diversity of wines at Bar Nat. “We want our wines to be session type wines that are still delicious,” said Rizzo. “Bar Nat offers a diverse wine selection and aims to keep the prices reasonable, around $12 per glass, to ensure that customers can enjoy their evenings. We truly want our customers to grow appreciation and understanding for the rich diversity of what the wine world really is that the commercial world doesn’t expose people to.” Bar Nat’s latest edition is lunch on Fridays and Saturdays from 11–3 pm, featuring a variety of fresh baked focaccia sandwiches, salads, and a seasonal smoothie. Lunch is a more casual setup, perfect for a quick and wholesome meal. In addition to their wine store, neo-bistro, and tastings, Bar Nat engages in special events and collaborations with artists, chefs, and wine enthusiasts. They believe in creativity, collaboration, and providing a unique dining experience for their patrons. Bar Nat hosts a monthly sourdough starter class and will host themed wine tastings. Customers will also have the opportunity to explore the fusion of art and food, where local, acclaimed artist Carmelo Blandino will cook, and Yee and Rizzo will paint. This event embodies Bar Nat’s commitment to creativity and collaboration, adding another layer to their mission-driven culinary journey. Bar Nat is open Thursday 6–10 pm; Friday and Saturday 11–3 pm and 6–11 pm. 3080 Tamiami Trail N. Naples, FL 34103

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AC Hotel Naples 5th Avenue Debuts in Downtown

Experience the pinnacle of modern charm and culinary excellence at AC Hotel Naples 5th Avenue – where every stay is not just a visit, but a voyage into luxury and style in paradise. BY DARBY KORDONOWY

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NESTLED IN DOWNTOWN NAPLES, THE AC HOTEL NAPLES 5th Avenue is the latest gem in the Marriott Bonvoy’s crown, welcoming guests with unparalleled sophistication to Florida’s Paradise Coast. This design-driven three-story haven opened on December 15 and redefines luxury with its 150 modern guest rooms that promise an atmosphere of sleek elegance and serene comfort. Hotel amenities include an inviting lobby and ground-floor café; 2,500 square feet of stunning event space; a well-equipped fitness center; an outdoor rooftop pool; and Limón, a signature rooftop restaurant and bar. The hotel’s distinctive European flair is harmoniously blended with the spirit of Southwest Florida, offering an authentic experience enriched by local artwork and natural inspiration drawn from the region’s bald cypress trees and verdant foliage.

Limón isn’t just a dining destination but a social hotspot where patrons can enjoy the cityscape. Whether by the poolside or at the long, lively bar with fresh cocktails such as ‘Limón Cadere’ made with vodka, fresh lemon juice, elderflower liquor, honey syrup, and limoncello and ‘Melon-Basil Sparkler’ infused with vodka, prosecco, watermelon puree, lemon juice, and basil. AC Hotel Naples stands as a pillar of the Naples Square mixed-use development. Surrounded by luxury condos, Gulfshore Playhouse’s under-construction, state-of-the-art Baker Theatre and Education Center, Tin City, Bayfront, and Baker Park, and only a stroll away from the sugar-white beaches, the hotel is a cornerstone of culture and sophistication in Naples. 455 12th St. South

“The AC Hotel’s motto is to provide guests with everything they need — and nothing they don’t — and today’s travelers appreciate that,” said General Manager Jacob Kucinski. “Form balances perfectly with function here; the style is sleek and sophisticated, but there are so many practical comforts, too.” The hotel’s design is a testament to this philosophy, where form and function find a beautiful equilibrium. Every detail, from commissioned artwork to strategically placed technology, caters to the discerning traveler. The hotel’s public spaces are adorned with eclectic artwork from Floridian artists, each piece a dialogue with nature and materials native to the Sunshine State.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF AC HOTEL NAPLES 5TH AVE.

For instance, LouAnn Wukitsch crafted “Reflect” using textured glass tiles at her studio situated near the thriving Glass Coast. Within this space, you’ll also discover “Beach Ball” by Kari LaOrden, a Naples native, which features a blend of natural cork and salt wash. The art collection at the hotel also includes pieces by renowned Florida artists such as Steph Gimson, Lynda Fay Braun, Bonnie Keane, and Brigitte Balbinot. From her studio located in the Balearic Islands of Spain, Karen Hain uniquely expressed the local essence with “Sand Lines,” a creation made from sand collected at Naples Beach. Additionally, the hotel boasts several wooden sculptures that echo the beauty of nature. Meanwhile, Carolina Sardi’s steel sculptures, known as “Lemon,” pay tribute to the Amalfi coast, serving as an artistic reflection of the inspiration behind Limón Rooftop Bar. The crown jewel of the AC Hotel Naples is Limón, the signature rooftop restaurant and bar offering an elevated dining experience with Mediterranean fare and a modern twist. Menu highlights include homemade meatballs, Spanish-style rock shrimp, skin-on red snapper, and desserts like Limoncello mascarpone cake and olive oil cake. “This is where favorite dishes meet updated flavors,” said food & beverage director Douglas Gaquer. “Our culinary focus is equal parts classic and contemporary, with an emphasis on Florida’s freshest ingredients.”

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Return of The Turtle Club: A Story of Resilience, Family Heritage, and Community BY DARBY KORDONOWY

Haute Living Naples sits down with Mick Moore, co-owner of the Vanderbilt Beach Resort and partner of The Turtle Club, to discuss Naples’s iconic waterfront restaurant beloved by locals and travelers alike. Haute Living (HL): Describe your background and family history with The Turtle Club? Mick Moore (MM): My grandfather, Robert Moore, moved to Naples in 1968 and bought the Vanderbilt Beach Resort, which was built in 1951 and was one of the only commercial properties on Vanderbilt Beach. He passed away in 1976 and my father moved our family down to Naples, Florida from Burlington, Vermont, to be closer to my grandmother. I was seven years old. My Dad took over operating

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the Vanderbilt Beach Resort and expanded it over the years. I grew up in Naples and attended public schools, including Naples Park Elementary School, Pine Ridge Middle School, and Barron Collier High School. After graduating from Barron Collier in 1987, I went to Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire. I graduated from Dartmouth in 1991 and moved to Washington, D.C., where I worked as a paralegal at a large New York law firm for two years before going to law school at William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. After graduating from law school in 1996, I practiced law as a commercial litigator in the Washington, D.C. area for a few years. I met my wife, Diane, in law school, and we were married in the D.C. area in 1997. In 1998, my dad partnered with Peter Tierney, who has a culinary degree from Johnson and Wales and was managing the Edgewater Beach Hotel at the time, to open The Turtle Club on the grounds of the Vanderbilt Beach Resort. I moved back to Naples in 2000, and I practiced law with the firm of Roetzel & Andress until 2004, when I left the full-time practice

PHOTOS COURTESY OF NICK SHIRGHIO

THE TURTLE CLUB, A BEACHFRONT FINE DINING RESTAURANT a part of the Vanderbilt Beach Resort, suffered extensive damage from Hurricane Ian in 2022, but with help through community, staff, and construction, the Naples institution has been able to repair and rebuild and is slated for reopening in January 2024.

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simple: focusing on Olde Florida design, outstanding seafood and steaks, a simple and relaxed beach atmosphere, and outstanding hospitality. When you are dining with us, you feel like you are in Naples, not Miami, Chicago, or New York. That is very intentional. Our philosophy also places a very strong emphasis on hospitality and authenticity. We believe that true hospitality is a step above excellent service and that it is marked by courtesy, kindness, and a genuine caring spirit. In a fast-paced and chaotic world, true hospitality is getting harder and harder to find. So, we are focused on providing that hospitality to our guests and employees and on providing a place where our guests can relax, unplug, unwind, and rejuvenate themselves as they spend time with their loved ones and friends. People have referred to us as iconic. We hope that we are an icon not only because of our location, but also because we combine highquality food and wine with service marked by courtesy, kindness, friendliness, and authenticity -- all in a simple and beautiful beach side setting. All these ingredients are important to us and are what have made us so successful. HL: Hurricane Ian was devastating, but what are some of the biggest lessons you have learned from these challenges and any other challenges? MM: Ian severely damaged The Turtle Club because the indoor dining space was designed with breakaway walls to protect the integrity of the building in the event of hurricane storm surge. They broke away in the storm surge, as they were designed to do, but the damage was worse than many other properties without breakaway walls.

of law to work at both the hotel and the restaurant. Since 2004 I have been integrally involved in the management of both the Vanderbilt Beach Resort and The Turtle Club. We have assembled a wonderful staff of managers and employees, and it has been a privilege to work with them to create the experience that our guests enjoy at the property. Peter Tierney has been a great partner and is very involved. He continues to be responsible for directing the outstanding cuisine at the restaurant.

Perhaps the biggest takeaway from the storm for me was the importance of surrounding yourself with a loyal team of professionals. Our team is fantastic. Immediately after the storm, most of The Turtle Club staff came to the property to help start the clean-up process. After we all took a moment to mourn our loss, we all rolled up our sleeves to begin the repair process. And it was not just our staff. We also had neighbors and customers stopping by to help and many of our vendors also stepped up to give us a hand. Many of them cried when they saw the property.

HL: What does The Turtle Club represent in the Naples community? MM: I think that The Turtle Club represents the finest fusion of Olde Florida and New Florida in Naples -- combining a very relaxed casual Olde Florida beach environment with sophisticated modern cuisine and outstanding gracious hospitality.

And then there were the many, many calls, texts, and emails we received just providing moral support, which meant a lot, especially in the early days when we were exhausted, afraid, and a bit dazed and confused about what to do. Really, Ian showed us the power of community. And it showed us what we can do when we all work together. Again, it comes back to hospitality -- if you treat your employees, customers, and vendors with kindness and respect, it comes back to you. Almost everyone we have worked with as we have gone through the process of restoration -- staff, vendors, customers, insurance companies, Collier County, and many contractors -- have been supportive and helpful.

Most of the major chain restaurants have come to Naples, and while many are excellent, we consider ourselves to be different because we are focused on being representative of what makes Florida, and Naples in particular, special. We try to keep things

HL: What can guests expect with the renovated Turtle Club? MM: Guests can expect that The Turtle Club will be largely the same, with a few small changes and a new interior look. We did not feel a need to totally re-invent something that so many people

With the sale of the Naples Beach Hotel, we are now the oldest operating beachfront hotel in Collier County, and the only beachfront property that is still a small family-run business.

FEATURE

enjoy and that has worked so well for so many years. The outdoor seating area is expected to remain the same, but the interior will get a facelift with a new, lighter look and feel that still stays true to Olde Florida design principles. The bathrooms will also get a facelift. And, of course, the old giant turtle shell will be there to greet visitors as they come through the front door. It was the very first thing I grabbed the morning after Hurricane Ian hit -- it was still safely attached to the wall! And our focus on hospitality will remain. We look forward to welcoming back our regular customers as well as meeting new ones. And we plan to do it with smiles – which is the best decoration a restaurant like ours can have.

HL: Do you have anything else to add? MM: The only other thing I would add is that we really appreciate the support of the community, and we don’t take it for granted. We feel honored to be a place where people come to spend time with family and friends. We feel privileged to be in the business of helping people connect with each other and make happy memories. Many of our guests have been coming for years, and we love seeing them return -- much like the sea turtles that return year after year to nest on the beach right in front of the restaurant. 9225 Gulf Shore Dr, Naples, FL 34108

HL: Will there be any new menu/cocktail items? Any new staff members to highlight? MM: We have kept a relatively stable core of The Turtle Club’s favorite dishes on the menu over the years while offering new dishes seasonally and as nightly chef specials. We expect to bring back most of The Turtle Club’s favorite dishes because people love them. I am sure we will be adding new menu items and cocktails when we re-open, but we have not yet decided what they will be. HL: When do reservations open and when is the opening night slated? MM: We have not scheduled an opening night yet. We expect to re-open by the end of January, but construction timing is inherently unpredictable, and it will be very hard for us to predict the exact day we will re-open until we get very, very close to it. We are probably not going to take reservations until we re-open because we recognize how much people value our reservations and we don’t want to miss-guess the timing of our opening and have to cancel reservations as a result. So, when we get closer and have a better idea as to an opening date, we will announce it on social media and by email to our customer list. We will likely operate on a first come, first served basis for the first week or so when we re-open. But as soon as we re-open, we will start taking reservations for the future. So, everyone should stay tuned for more information.

HL: What advice do you have for future restaurant owners/ entrepreneurs? MM: My advice would be to assemble an excellent team around you and to take care of them. Plan for the worst and hope for the best. Build up reserves and savings if you can so that you can weather any storms (literal or figurative) that pop up unexpectedly on the horizon. Stay flexible and be prepared to adapt -- because you will need to. Once you have done that, buckle up and enjoy the ride!

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF NICK SHIRGHIO

HL: What’s your favorite dish and cocktail at The Turtle Club? MM: My favorite dish is probably our iconic ‘Oysters Turtlefeller.’ They are small mouthfuls of heaven! People have told me that they sometimes dream about them! They are absolutely outstanding, and I think many people would agree that they are some of the best Oysters Rockefeller you will ever have anywhere in the world. My favorite cocktail is the ‘Turtle Club Dark and Stormy,’ which is a traditional rum drink with black rum mixed with ginger beer. You feel a bit like a pirate when you drink one -- which is a nice feeling to have every once in a while.

Creating a Family Office Without the Office BY DON DICARLO

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LUKE COPPING PHOTOGRAPHY

FOR MANY FAMILIES OF WEALTH, A TRADITIONAL WEALTH management offering may not always be sufficient to manage the challenges and complexities of their circumstances, especially during times of business or personal transition. However, creating or maintaining a traditional family office can also prove to be impractical or untenable, especially from a cost perspective. At Wilmington Trust, we have created a holistic offering to provide integrated and tailored wealth management solutions, which aim to promote and preserve the family’s identity and values, but at a lower cost than that of a typical family office structure. As your “Outsourced Family Office Director,” Wilmington Trust can create and deliver a customized family office experience tailored to help meet your evolving needs and designed to align with your existing team and advisors. Our goal is to help ensure that you have the ongoing clarity, perspective, and control necessary to identify and achieve your family’s long-term priorities with peace of mind. Our dedicated team of highly credentialed and multidisciplinary family office professionals not only guides our clients in the creation, implementation, and execution of complex financial, estate, and succession plans, but provides both a comprehensive digital platform to integrate and report financial data as well as an educational platform to engage family members. Our family office solutions are especially suitable for businessowning and entrepreneurial families seeking to elevate their current advisory services as they plan for or execute on transition events. As your family needs grow ever more complex, now may be the time to turn to a team of experienced advisors who may help you manage

complexities and challenges—and take advantage of potential opportunities—at a lower cost than a traditional family office structure. Wilmington Trust’s local Naples team is here to help. Call us at 239397-5000 or visit wilmingtontrust.com for more information. Donald DiCarlo, President, Wilmington Trust Family Office A respected thought leader, Don is a Fellow of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (ACTEC), a highly selective group of peer-elected trust and estate attorneys in the U.S. and abroad. He has been an adjunct professor of tax law for over 20 years and lectures frequently at industry-leading conferences, including the Heckerling Institute of Estate Planning. Don’s past experience includes the private practice of law and active-duty service as Judge Advocate in the United States Army. He also maintains his credentials as a Certified Exit Planning Advisor and Certified Life Coach. Wilmington Trust is a registered service mark used in connection with various fiduciary and non-fiduciary services offered by certain subsidiaries of M&T Bank Corporation. Note that tax, estate planning, investing, and financial strategies require consideration for suitability of the individual, business, or investor, and there is no assurance that any strategy will be successful. Wilmington Trust is not authorized to and does not provide legal, accounting, or tax advice. Our advice and recommendations provided to you are illustrative only and subject to the opinions and advice of your own attorney, tax advisor, or other professional advisor. Investing involves risks and you may incur a profit or a loss. There is no assurance that any investment strategy will be successful.

From the Golden Arches to Culinary Cohesion: A New Partnership Cycles in Naples BY MARI HERNANDEZ RUBENSTEIN

LOUIE MELE, A MAN WHOSE NAME IS SYNONYMOUS WITH the golden arches, has embarked on a new chapter. This time, it’s not a global franchise, but a charming haven in the heart of Naples, The Bicyclette Cookshop. Here, Louie’s passion for food and cycling and his talent for spotting potential collide with the culinary masterpieces of Chef Kayla Pfeiffer, creating a dining experience unlike any other. Louie’s journey is one of dedication and ambition. From frying French fries at 17 to rising to the presidency of McDonald’s Canada and Italy, his story is a testament to hard work and unwavering passion. Retiring at 53, his love for cycling intertwined with his love for food, leading him to The Bicyclette Cookshop. Enter Kayla Pfeiffer, a young chef whose talent and ambition shone through her culinary pedigree. Trained in the prestigious kitchens of New York City, she brought her innovative vision and dedication to fresh, locally sourced ingredients to Naples. Together, they formed a partnership as harmonious as the flavors on their menu, comprised of snacks, shareables, and entrees. From the innovative Tuna Crudo, with its surprising tomato water vinaigrette, to the caviar or braised leeks with raclette and oreganata vinaigrette, each dish shows off Chef Kayla’s artistic flair and meticulous techniques. Louie’s homemade olive oil from Umbria takes center stage in a soft-serve creation, a playful nod to his McDonald’s days. The wine list reflects their shared passion for natural wines, highlighting the Umbria, while the cocktails are bold

CHEF PARTNER KAYL A PFEIFFER

5OWNER 8 HAUTE LOUIE MELE NAPLES LIVING

and exciting, with Flaquitas being Chef Kayla’s favorite, “Flaquita is my nickname. It means ‘skinny girl’ in Spanish. It’s like our signature Mezcal Margarita with Tamron a lot of different bold flavors”. Louie, seasoned by years of leadership, provided the perfect foundation for Kayla’s talent. He recognized her potential and nurtured her growth, ultimately making her a partner at 27, a testament to his faith in her vision, “I offered her a blank canvas, paint, and the freedom to create. And she did a magnificent job. Everything you see here—the menu, the design, the atmosphere—is all her vision. I’m incredibly grateful that she joined me on this journey and that I could make her a partner.” The Bicyclette Cookshop is more than just a place to dine; it’s a vibrant hub for the community. It’s warm and inviting ambiance welcomes guests to share in the joy of good food and conversation. Whether it’s a casual lunch with friends, a romantic evening, or a celebration, The Bicyclette Cookshop provides the perfect backdrop for creating lasting moments. With Louie and Kayla at the helm, this culinary haven is sure to continue captivating hearts and taste buds for years to come.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE LOS ANGLE

FEATURE

“Be You” Inspired by Raimonda Childress The Power of Fashion for Women in Naples Has a Home, the BU Club PHOTOS COURTESY OF LANE WILKINSON AND MEGAN DIPIERO FOR HEADSHOT

BY MARI HERNANDEZ RUBENSTEIN

IN THE VIBRANT HEART OF NAPLES, AMIDST THE SUN-KISSED shores of Southwest Florida, Raimonda Childress reigns as the epitome of chic and timeless elegance. As the visionary behind the BU Club boutique, Childress has crafted a timeless boutique for women seeking fashion that transcends trends and reflects the essence of personal expression. From humble beginnings in her native Lithuania, Childress was captivated by the transformative power of style. Witnessing the profound impact of clothing on one’s confidence and self-perception, she developed a deep-rooted appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship that lie at the heart of fashion design. Recognizing a void for sophisticated and unique apparel, she envisioned a boutique catering to Naples’ women’s tastes. Thus, the BU Club was born, a testament to Childress’s unwavering belief in the power of fashion to empower and inspire. Stepping into the BU Club is like entering a world where fashion becomes an extension of your being. Childress’s meticulous curation of European brands sets her apart from mainstream retailers, offering a variety of pieces that embody femininity, quality, and enduring appeal.

Her approach to fashion extends beyond simply providing stylish apparel. Childress believes fashion is an intricate tapestry woven from individuality, reflecting one’s personality and unique spirit. She is passionate about providing personalized service, even outside of her boutique. She regularly hosts events to provide a platform for local businesses to showcase their talents and for women to connect, share ideas, and celebrate their passion for fashion. A unique aspect of Childress’s service is her organization of exclusive fashion trips to renowned fashion capitals like Milan and New York. These immersive experiences allow her clients to witness firsthand the latest trends, connect with designers, and curate personalized wardrobes from the world’s most distinguished fashion houses. With her unwavering dedication to fashion and genuine commitment to her clientele, Raimonda Childress has established herself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of Naples fashion. The BU Club successfully brings her vision to life, providing women with a haven to embrace their confidence through fashion and discover their unique sense of style.

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Navigating Naples Luxury Real Estate with Excellence A trusted name in the Southwest Florida real estate industry shares his insight, advice, and how he navigates both career and family. BY DARBY KORDONOWY

Haute Living Naples sits down with Blaze Zdravev to discuss the real estate market in Naples, including current trends, advice for clients, and the future.

Blaze’s success can be attributed to his combination of an efficient team and an innovative approach to marketing. He seamlessly directs both buyers and sellers in all aspects of financing through one-stop-shopping and utilizes cutting-edge digital marketing tools to enhance their real estate experience. Fluent in five languages and certified as a negotiation expert, Blaze has the unique ability to connect high-end clients with global resources, delivering some of Naples’ most unique properties.

Haute Living (HL): Can you share some insights into the current luxury real estate market in Naples, Florida? What trends and opportunities are you currently observing? Blaze Zdravev (BZ): With pleasure! The luxury real estate market in Naples is experiencing a demand for waterfront properties, particularly those with direct access to the Gulf of Mexico, modern designs, eco-friendly features, and investment opportunities in luxury rentals. Buyers are looking for modern and contemporary architectural styles, sleek designs, open floor plans, and high-end finishes that provide a luxurious and comfortable living experience. Naples has a vibrant cultural scene, with various events, galleries, and upscale shopping areas. This contributes to the appeal of luxury real estate in the area, as buyers seek a combination of natural beauty, cultural amenities, and a high-end quality of life.

One of Blaze’s defining characteristics is his deep respect for his valued clients, which has earned him a reputation for discretion and privacy. Starting his first business at the age of 20, he brings to the table a strong work ethic, alongside his passion for luxury cars, golf, and showcasing the best that Naples has to offer.

HL: Naples is known for its stunning waterfront properties. What advice do you have for clients looking to purchase a luxury waterfront home, and what distinguishes these properties from others? BZ: Work with a highly energetic local real estate agent (me) who has a proven track record and market knowledge. Prioritize your preference and

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF ERIK KELLAR

IN THE REALM OF LUXURY REAL ESTATE IN NAPLES, FL, ONE NAME shines brightly: Blaze Zdravev. With a stellar reputation as one of the region’s most distinguished agents, Blaze has been consistently delivering excellence in the world of high-end property listings and transactions. Having called Naples his home for more than a decade, he possesses an intimate understanding of the local market dynamics and has established himself as a prominent figure, working with the prestigious John R. Wood Properties and Luxury Portfolio International.

FEATURE consider the property location. Waterfront properties in Naples are highly sought after, so choose a location that suits your lifestyle and offers desirable amenities nearby. Assess the architectural style and quality of construction. Luxury waterfront homes often feature modern and contemporary designs, high-end finishes, and state-of-the-art technology. Ensure the property meets your aesthetic and quality standards. What distinguishes luxury waterfront properties in Naples is their prime location, access to the Gulf of Mexico, and breathtaking views. These homes offer a unique blend of natural beauty, exclusivity, and upscale amenities, making them highly desirable for those seeking a luxurious waterfront lifestyle. HL: How do you stay informed about the most exclusive and private listings in the area? What sets your access to luxury listings apart from other real estate agents? BZ: As a trusted advisor and a member of the esteemed board of directors at John R. Wood Properties and Christie’s International Real Estate, I have unparalleled access to the most exclusive and private listings in the area. My network and connections within the industry are second to none, providing me with insider information on luxury properties that other agents simply do not have. Furthermore, my fluency in five different languages allows me to effortlessly communicate with a diverse range of clients, ensuring that I can cater to their specific needs and preferences. Rest assured, my commitment to excellence and my extensive resources guarantee that my clients and their families receive an elevated level of service and access to the most soughtafter luxury listings available. HL: Naples offers a wide range of luxury communities. What factors do you consider when matching a client’s lifestyle and preferences with the right neighborhood or community? BZ: When it comes to matching a client’s lifestyle and preferences with the perfect neighborhood or community in Naples, I take a comprehensive approach. I understand that each client has unique needs and desires, and I strive to find the ideal location that aligns with their specific criteria. First and foremost, I prioritize understanding my client’s lifestyle. This includes considering factors such as their hobbies, interests, and daily routines. Whether they enjoy golfing or boating or prefer a vibrant city atmosphere, I consider these preferences to narrow down the options. I also consider their desired amenities and facilities. Some clients may prioritize access to worldclass golf courses, while others may value proximity to beautiful beaches or exclusive marinas. By understanding their must-haves, I can identify neighborhoods or communities that offer those specific features. Additionally, I pay attention to the overall ambiance and atmosphere of the area. Some clients may prefer a quiet and tranquil setting, while others may be drawn to a livelier and more vibrant neighborhood. By understanding their desired ambiance, I can guide them toward communities that align with their preferences. Lastly, I consider practical factors such as proximity to schools, healthcare facilities, shopping centers, and other essential amenities. I understand that convenience and accessibility are crucial to a client’s daily life, and I strive to find neighborhoods that meet those requirements. By considering all these factors, I ensure that my clients are presented with options that perfectly match their lifestyle and preferences, allowing them to make informed decisions and find their dream luxury community in Naples. HL: Luxury homebuyers often seek specific amenities and features. What are some of the most in-demand features among your high-end clientele, and how do you assist in finding properties that meet these criteria? BZ: Some of the most in-demand features include high-end finishes, outdoor living spaces, smart home technology, spa-like bathrooms, and private amenities. To assist clients in finding properties that meet these criteria, I utilize market knowledge, networking, customized property searches, collaboration with industry professionals, property tours, and evaluations.

HL: You have a family of your own. How do you navigate fatherhood and your career? BZ: My wife Emilia and my team play crucial roles in helping me navigate fatherhood and my career. Emilia’s support is invaluable as she understands the demands of my job and is always there to provide love and encouragement. She helps create a balanced home environment, ensuring our family’s needs are met while allowing me to focus on my career. Additionally, my team is incredibly supportive and understanding. They collaborate with me to create flexible schedules and provide assistance when needed. This enables me to prioritize my family while still excelling in my professional responsibilities. With the support of my wife and team, I can maintain a healthy work-life balance, being present for my family while also pursuing my career goals. HL: The process of buying a luxury property can be complex. How do you ensure a smooth and confidential experience for your high-net-worth clients, and what kind of services or resources do you provide to facilitate this? BZ: By providing personalized assistance, maintaining confidentiality measures, and leveraging our vast network and market knowledge, I have strong connections with top real estate attorneys, title companies, financial advisors, home inspection and interior design companies. These resources allow me to provide comprehensive services, including legal expertise, clear titles, financial guidance, and thorough property inspections. With these connections, I ensure a seamless and secure transaction process for my clients. We aim to make the luxury property buying process seamless and enjoyable for our clients.

FEATURE

Sparkle This Season with Yamron Jewelers Adorn yourself with exquisite jewelry that sparkles and shines. BY DARBY KORDONOWY

IN THE HEART OF NAPLES, FLORIDA, YAMRON JEWELERS is ready to help you dazzle this season with a stunning collection of bracelets, necklaces, rings, and earrings that are sure to make your festive season even more memorable. Explore the world of luxury and elegance with Yamron Jeweler’s handpicked selection of gemstones and diamonds that will elevate your style to new heights. Bracelets That Make a Statement Rahaminov 18k White Gold Diamond Wide Bracelet: This exquisite bracelet features a double row of gorgeous pearshaped diamonds. It’s the perfect accessory to add a touch of sophistication and brilliance to any outfit. Robert Procop 18K White Gold Diamond Sapphire and Pink Sapphire Bracelet: A true masterpiece, this bracelet boasts a total diamond weight of 0.48ct, along with 171 sapphires and 177 pink

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sapphires. It’s a symphony of color and sparkle that will capture everyone’s attention. Yamron Collection Platinum 18K Yellow Gold Fancy Yellow Diamond Bracelet: This stunning bracelet is adorned with two rows of diamonds, including 26 Asscher cut fancy yellow diamonds and 52 emerald cut diamonds. It’s a dazzling display of luxury and opulence. Necklaces That Shine Bright Rahaminov 18K Rose Gold Diamond By The Yard Necklace: This necklace features a total diamond weight of 6.64ct, including 2 oval diamonds, 2 marquee diamonds, and 84 round diamonds. It’s a timeless piece that will add a touch of elegance to any ensemble. Yamron Collection 18K White Gold Diamond Sapphire

5. 1. Rahaminov 18k White Gold Diamond Wide Bracelet 2. Yamron Collection Platinum 18k Yellow Gold Fancy Yellow Diamond 3 Stone Ring 3. Parulina 18k Rose Gold Fantaisie Ivy Marquis Earrings 4. Yamron Collection Platinum 18k Yellow Gold Fancy Yellow Diamond Bracelet 5. Rahaminov 18k White Gold Diamond Bypass Branch Ring 6. Rahaminov 18k White Gold Diamond Flower Cluster Earrings 7. Yamron Collection 18k White Gold Diamond Sapphire Necklace 8. Yamron Collection Platinum Radiant Diamond 3 Stone Ring 7. 8. 6.

Necklace: With a total diamond weight of 12.19ct, this necklace is a true showstopper. It features 68 marquis diamonds, 19 pearshaped diamonds, 65 round diamonds, and 19 oval sapphires weighing 41.25ct. It’s a masterpiece of craftsmanship and artistry. Robert Procop Diamond and Emerald American Glamour Necklace: This necklace is a testament to glamour and luxury, with a total diamond weight of 8.03ct, 5.87ct of emeralds, and 6.80ct of diamonds. Stamped with RP 5629 Plat, it’s a collector’s dream. Rings That Capture Hearts

PHOTOS COURTESY OF YAMRON JEWELRY

Rahaminov 18K White Gold Diamond Bypass Branch Ring: This stunning ring boasts a total diamond weight of 4.08ct, including 8 pear-shaped diamonds. It’s a unique and captivating piece that will make a statement wherever you go. Yamron Collection Platinum 18K Yellow Gold Fancy Yellow Diamond 3 Stone Ring: With a total diamond weight of 17.85ct, this ring is a true masterpiece. It features one 15.61ct radiant diamond, 62 fancy yellow diamonds, and 148 round diamonds. It’s a symbol of luxury and sophistication. Yamron Collection Platinum Radiant Diamond 3 Stone Ring: This exquisite ring showcases a total diamond weight of 6.89ct, including one 6.37ct radiant diamond and two trapezoid diamonds weighing 0.52ct. It’s a timeless and elegant piece that will capture hearts.

Earrings That Shine Brighter Rahaminov 18K White Gold Diamond Flower Cluster Earrings: These stunning earrings boast a total diamond weight of 8.54ct, with two round diamonds and 12 pear-shaped diamonds. They’re a symbol of natural beauty and elegance. A pair of Vhernier 18K White Gold Diamond Paved Earrings: These exquisite earrings feature a total diamond weight of 4.24ct. They’re a dazzling accessory that will light up any occasion. Parulina 18K Rose Gold Fantaisie Ivy Marquis Earrings: These earrings are a true work of art, with a total diamond weight of 2.72ct. They’re also available in yellow gold, allowing you to choose the perfect style for the season’s celebrations. Let Yamron Jewelers in Naples, Florida, be your destination for the finest in luxury jewelry. With their stunning collection of bracelets, necklaces, rings, and earrings, you can sparkle and shine like never before. Elevate your style and make a statement with these exquisite pieces that are sure to capture hearts and turn heads wherever you go. Visit Yamron Jewelers at Waterside Shops today and experience the magic of luxury and elegance. 5555 Tamiami Trail N Ste 11, Naples, FL 34108

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HAUTETIME.COM

WATCHES

PHOTO COURTESY OF GRAND SEIKO

Haute

TIME

O’Leary in the F.P.Journe Chronomètre Optimum and Chronomètre Bleu 66

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O’Leary sporting the Chopard L.U.C Quattro Spirit 25 “Mexican Laughing Skull

THE MASTER COLLECTOR With an unparalleled reputation in the watch industry, Kevin O’Leary has a relationship with watches that transcends far beyond the dial — as time is Mr. Wonderful’s most valuable asset. BY ADRIENNE FAUROTE

KEVIN O’LEARY’S PASSION FOR WATCHES IS PALPABLE.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ALBERTO GONZALEZ

A brief digression: in mid-July, I connected with O’Leary a few weeks prior to our shoot to discuss the creative direction and story we wanted to tell. He was beaming with such enthusiasm about showing his watch collection in a new, fun way that for a moment, I thought he was going to burst through the phone. Fast forward to late August on our cover shoot with his beloved timepieces, and his passion practically became infectious. Being in this industry, it’s clear that some collectors and enthusiasts were just destined for it — and I quickly discovered O’Leary is one of those folks. His aptitude for watchmaking is a part of his early upbringing. When O’Leary was just a teenager around 15 years old, he moved to the watch capital of the world, Geneva, Switzerland. It was there he discovered the biggest players in the industry, which sat along the streets lining Lac Léman (or Lake Geneva). “Lake Geneva is where the watchmakers were, and where they still are today,” O’Leary explains. “I took a fascination with watchmaking in Geneva, and at that time, in the late 60s, there were remarkable dials I was beginning to learn about, in addition to the history of watchmaking. I developed a passion for watches, realizing they are an unusual piece of art,” he recalls. There is a hint of nostalgia in O’Leary’s voice, while he also reflects on his early days in Geneva so fondly — as if it were yesterday. “We were just getting a man to the moon around this time, and Omega launched the Speedmaster, which was a watch selected by NASA to be worn in space,” O’Leary says as he references his first-ever watch. And yes, that is the 1969 Speedmaster that made history when worn by Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on the moon.

Some years later, his passion — and collection — has only grown. “When starting a collection, most people go down the so-called ‘three horsemen’ path, which consists of the three core brands of every collector’s collection: Audemars Piguet, Rolex, and Patek Philippe,” O’Leary explains. Indeed, these are the big three: think of the Patek Philippe World Time, the steel white-faced Daytona from Rolex, and the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak as your founding fathers, if you will. However, O’Leary came to a point in his collecting career where he had reached great heights in the classic category from these three industry pillars. He began to question where he would go next. The answer was simple: dials. “I got captured in the dials. I wanted to get more diversification in dials because what you see on your wrist — and what starts the conversation — is the dial. And the thing is, Patek has a look, Audemars Piguet has a look, and Rolex has a look. Those are dials I can spot from 20 feet away. I wanted to explore new watchmakers and new dials. For example, the F.P.Journe dials are unmistakable,” he suggests with a smile spreading across his face.A proven expert in both watches and entrepreneurship who spends his time as an original “shark” on Shark Tank, evaluating and investing in dynamic business proposals, his strategic thinking has infiltrated his keen eye and mindset in watches. Ultimately, he has mastered the minutia of collecting through his investment in watches — emotionally, physically, and beyond. “The thing about collecting,” he starts to explain, “is people always ask me how I am getting these pieces. So, I think it is important to cover this topic for collectors who are just starting to understand how it works. The

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O’Leary in the Patek Philippe Aquanaut Ref. 5968, Nautilus 5711/1A, Ref. 5575-001, and Aquanaut Luce Rainbow 7968/300R

It’s true; O’Leary is a man of his word. He is so serious about his unwavering commitment to not selling, trading, or bartering any of his watches that he confesses they will likely go with him when he dies (lightheartedly, of course), as he will undoubtedly need them in his afterlife. As they say, watch enthusiasts are die-hards. All jokes aside, O’Leary is not wrong; this is the golden rule of watch collecting. And once you earn the watchmaker’s trust, the fun can be had. “When I covet a piece, I let a brand know that a particular dial is of interest to me; however, I do not bug them or call them 40 times — I call once. At their election, they may eventually call me up one day and say they have that dial in North America, asking if I want to take it. My answer is always yes,” he admits. A trendsetter nonetheless, he is excited about where the industry is headed at this very moment. “I am excited that even the most conservative watch companies — like Rolex and Patek — are getting more creative with

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their dials. For instance, the Rolex Day-Date Puzzle Dial that just dropped this year is off the charts,” he says with his passion shining through his words again. “That watch came right out of left field, causing a massive controversy among collectors. They thought Rolex was out of its mind, but I think it’s a brilliant move, bringing excitement to a classic.” Spending the morning with a snippet of his collection, there is no denying his dials are special. From the Rolex “Eye of the Tiger” Daytona and the F.P.Journe Chronomètre Bleu to the same Patek Philippe Aquanaut Luce “Rainbow” Messi was spotted wearing earlier this year, his repertoire is impressive. With such a vast collection, I supposed it would be hard for O’Leary to pick just one favorite. Proving me right, he rattled off a few classics he simply could not live without like the Patek Ref. 5711, the Audemars Piguet Jumbo Royal Oak, and his F.P.Journe Chronomètre Bleu he wore during our interview. But watches that transcend into the mind-to-watch realm hold the most importance. With season 15 of Shark Tank in full swing and a few other ventures in the queue (he teased a culinary endeavor on the horizon in Miami), we can’t wait to see which milestone he reaches next — in life… And on his wrist. Read the full story on HauteTime.com.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ALBERTO GONZALEZ

watch industry has not changed in 250 years. It has grown on the back of its collectors. Those who get into watches and spend a lifetime collecting are the backbone of the industry. And there are certain unwritten rules to follow,” O’Leary reveals.

Haute

Grand Seiko Style Grand Seiko releases two sleek models within its Heritage Collection, paying tribute to the legendary Grand Seiko Style.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF COURTESY OF GRAND SEIKO

BY ADRIENNE FAUROTE

ONE COULD ARGUE THAT ONE OF GRAND SEIKO’S crowning achievements is the 44GS, which has left an indelible mark on the horological world since its introduction in 1967. This watch would become a beacon of the Grand Seiko Style. With its distinctive case, impeccable finishing, and captivating dial, the 44GS set new standards in watch design and craftsmanship.

The case finishing is accomplished using Grand Seiko’s signature Zaratsu method — highly skilled artisans employ this technique to create mirror-polished surfaces that contrast seamlessly with areas adorned with Grand Seiko’s distinctive hairline finishing. Each step of this intricate process is performed by hand, requiring years to master.

In 2013, Grand Seiko paid homage to the iconic model by introducing a modern interpretation that retained the essence of the original, while adapting it to contemporary design, ensuring that the Grand Seiko legacy continued to thrive. It was a testament to the enduring appeal of the 44GS design. Then, in 2022, the watchmaker continued the evolution of the design by releasing a new mid-size variant. With a case diameter of 36.5mm, it became the smallest in the series. This introduction heralded a new era for the 44GS, catering to enthusiasts who appreciated its timeless aesthetics in a more compact form.

In true Grand Seiko fashion, the dials of SBGW297 and SBGW299 are works of art. The former boasts a pristine white dial, while the latter features a captivating dark-blue hue — both showcase a dramatic sunray pattern that dances elegantly with the interplay of light, creating a visual spectacle. The bezels, multi-faceted indexes, and hands have been carefully reimagined to complement the scaled-down dimensions. A boxshaped sapphire crystal protects the dial, infusing warmth into the design and connecting it to its mid-century predecessor.

The culmination of this evolution arrives in the form of the SBGW297 and SBGW299, the latest additions to the Grand Seiko Heritage Collection. Both are distinguished as Master Shop models, a distinction that underscores the exceptional craftsmanship behind their creation. At 36.5mm in diameter, 11.6mm in thickness, and just 42.7mm in length from lug tip to lug tip, the cases of SBGW297 and SBGW299 are a nod to the proportions of the ‘67 original. These cases have been meticulously redesigned to maximize the potential of Grand Seiko’s slim, manual-winding Caliber 9S64.

Powering these timepieces is the Caliber 9S64, a mechanical manual-winding movement assembled by the skilled artisans of the Grand Seiko Studio Shizukuishi. This movement undergoes rigorous testing in six positions over 17 days, exceeding the chronometer standard. It adheres to the Grand Seiko Standard of -3 to +5 seconds and boasts a 72-hour power reserve when fully wound. In the world of horology, where heritage meets innovation, the Grand Seiko Heritage Collection SBGW297 and SBGW299 stand as timeless tributes to the 44GS legacy.

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Sizing Down The Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet collection welcomes a new 38mm size. BY ADRIENNE FAUROTE

IN AN UNEXPECTED NEWS CYCLE THIS FALL, AUDEMARS PIGUET

PHOTOS COURTESY OF COURTESY OF AUDEMARS PIGUET

released a new 38mm case size to their iconic Code 11.59 collection. At Watches & Wonders in March, we saw the smaller case size assert its dominance, so this smaller size addition doesn’t come as much of a surprise, yet we’re still here for the slimmer case size movement. The 38mm Code 11.59 is introduced in two models that complement the collection’s existing 41 and 42mm offerings. Despite the reduced size, these two timepieces have retained the aesthetics that define the Code 11.59 collection. The case consists of an octagonal middle case, nestled within an extra-thin bezel, and a rounded caseback. The lugs, a hallmark of the collection’s design, showcase impeccable craftsmanship — the upper part is seamlessly welded to the bezel, while the lower portion aligns elegantly with the caseback. This modern case design receives the same meticulous attention to detail as Audemars Piguet’s renowned calibers, with a refined combination of satin-brushing and polished chamfers that accentuate its multifaceted architecture. Building on the collection’s design evolution introduced earlier this year, the crown of the new 38mm models boasts shallower but more pronounced indentations, adding another layer of geometrical complexity to the case. The two 18-karat pink gold models add elegant contrasts to the collection. The first one features a dynamic purple dial complemented by a matching strap; the second one exudes a more understated yet brilliantly radiant ivory aesthetic.

The embossed dial, crafted in collaboration with Swiss guilloché craftsman Yann von Kaenel, presents a mesmerizing gradient structure. Hundreds of tiny holes emanate from the dial’s center in a captivating wave-like pattern, creating mesmerizing color effects. To achieve the rich purple and ivory hues, a process known as PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) is employed, preserving and enhancing the depth of the embossed pattern while maximizing the interplay of light. The new faceted and polished hour-markers and hands further accentuate the contrasts on the dial. For optimum legibility in lowlight conditions, the hands are filled with luminescent coating. At the heart of these watches is Audemars Piguet’s latest selfwinding movement, Calibre 5900. This movement, which made its debut in 2022 on select 37mm Royal Oak references, boasts a slim 4mm thickness, a high 4Hz frequency, and an impressive 60-hour power reserve. The meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail are visible through the sapphire caseback, which reveals the movement’s 22-karat pink gold oscillating weight and refined decorations adorning its components. Each timepiece is paired with a “large square scale” alligator strap that matches the dial’s tone, secured by the collection’s new 18-karat pink gold pin buckle. Additionally, two rubber-coated straps — lined with calfskin leather and adorned with a textile pattern in ivory or purple hues — will be available exclusively in Audemars Piguet boutiques.

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In Sync Louis Vuitton collaborates with Akrivia’s Rexhep Rexhepi collection to create the perfect timepiece, the LVRR-01 Chronographe à Sonnerie. IN PERHAPS ONE OF THE BIGGEST INDUSTRY PLOT TWISTS

of the year, Louis Vuitton and Akrivia designed a first-of-its-kind timepiece. At the helm of Louis Vuitton Watches, Jean Arnault has kept us on the edge of our seats with the release of his new design direction for the brand earlier this year. And if I could sum it up in two words, it would easily be, “fresh blood.” As the youngest Arnault, Jean has made his vision for the maison very clear: the collections will be clean, contemporary, and cool. And while the collaboration came as quite a surprise, Rexhep Rexhepi makes perfect sense. The LVRR-01 Chronographe à Sonnerie is a double-faced chronograph with a chiming complication. Showcasing each brand’s design ingenuity on their respective sides, it is a true standout. The LVRR-01 is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s an auditory delight, too. The watch houses a unique combination of complications: a chronograph, a sonnerie mechanism, and a tourbillon. While the integration of a chronograph and a striking mechanism has historical precedents in pocket watches, it’s a groundbreaking achievement in contemporary watchmaking. The chronograph functions are controlled by a pusher at two o’clock, with an acoustic reminder of elapsed time — a beautiful chime that sounds every minute. What sets the LVRR-01 apart even further, is its movement design. Unlike conventional movements, the watch features an inverted caliber, with the chronograph and chiming mechanisms visible on the front instead of the back. This ingenious design allows the

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Each LVRR-01 is delivered in an individually hand-painted Louis Vuitton traditional trunk.

wearer to admire the exquisite craftsmanship of the movement continuously. The movement features meticulous hand-applied decorations, such as anglage and black polishing, showcasing the highest levels of watchmaking expertise. The platinum case of the LVRR-01 is a testament to both Louis Vuitton’s iconic Tambour shape and Rexhep Rexhepi’s recognizable design. The tall, sloping bezel and elegantly sculpted lugs draw inspiration from mid-century gentlemen’s wristwatches. Even the crown and chronograph pusher, with their seven-sided form, are handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail, displaying the artistry that both brands bring to the table. For me, one of the most intriguing aspects of this timepiece is the emblem that graces its sapphire dial. At first glance, it appears to be the conventional Louis Vuitton logo. But after closer inspection, it reveals a clever merging of the Louis Vuitton and Akrivia names, with “LV” subtly intertwined with “AKRIVIA.” The emblem represents not only the watch’s aesthetics, but also the historical link between the two brands. Indeed, this is the first time in Louis Vuitton’s history that its logo is combined with another brand’s — a symbol of the unique nature of this alliance.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LOUIS VUITTON

BY ADRIENNE FAUROTE

The Art of Exploration Vacheron Constantin unveils a new 35mm self-winding Overseas to mark its latest “One of Not Many” campaign with artist and explorer Zaria Forman. BY ADRIENNE FAUROTE

THIS FALL, WE WERE ON THE GROUND IN ICELAND WITH

Vacheron Constantin as they broke the news, revealing the new 35mm self-winding Overseas. And while this timepiece is certainly a beauty and perfect addition to the Overseas collection — it is dressed in the opulence of pink gold from case to bracelet — it also tells a story.

The 35mm self-winding Overseas is not just a watch; it represents the essence of the Vacheron Constantin “One of Not Many” campaign, in collaboration with the artist and explorer Zaria Forman. Forman’s work is a testament to her dedication to exploring remote locations in nature — specifically Iceland — and capturing their beauty at that point in time. As I listened to Forman talking about her works, I immediately drew the parallel to Vacheron Constantin’s unwavering commitment to designing products that are inspired by the intricacies of nature.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF VACHERON CONSTANTIN

Similar to Vacheron Constantin’s fascination with nature, Forman developed a deep love for landscape at an early age, becoming fascinated with the ever-evolving properties found in nature. “When you love something, you want to protect it,” Forman explained as we were wandering through Iceland. Forman’s works become ephemeral portraits of the landscapes we stand to loose; ultimately, freezing them in time.

Back to time — the new Overseas exudes a radiant personality, highlighted by its monochromatic design that plays with the warm reflections of pink gold, both in its case and bracelet. The dial, adorned with a sunburst satin-brushed finish and coated with transparent lacquer, radiates with a harmonious tone-on-tone brilliance that captivates the eye. A total of 90 diamonds, meticulously set on the six-sided bezel resembling the iconic Maltese cross, adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the slim cuff-like profile of the watch. Beyond its appearance, the watch houses a movement that guarantees exemplary reliability. Caliber 1088/1, the beating heart of this timepiece, comprises 144 components and operates at a frequency of 4 Hz, ensuring precise timekeeping. The inclusion of a stopsecond mechanism enables accurate adjustments of time functions, a testament to Vacheron Constantin’s commitment to precision. The movement also boasts a generous 40-hour power reserve, ensuring that you stay on time no matter where your adventures take you. A work of art from the inside out, the back of the self-winding Overseas features a meticulously decorated open caseback. The rear bridges feature exquisite Côtes de Genève, showcasing the brand’s dedication to craftsmanship. The emblematic rotor, sculpted in gold and adorned with a compass rose, adds a touch of wanderlust to evoke the spirit of travel and exploration.

2024 Mercedes-AMG S63 E Performance City elegance, canyon stormer BY TIM LAPPEN

“WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT MERCEDES-BENZ?” The response to this question isn’t a simple one, and will likely depend upon when someone’s main experience with the brand occurred. If it were in the late 1930s, the images conjured up would be of the famous world-beaters, the “Silver Arrows,” the sleek, shiny, and super-fast torpedoes that won races everywhere. If it were in the 1950s, the response undoubtedly would focus on high-performance sports cars, including the legendary 300 SL “Gullwing” — still very much sought-after today — the 300 SLR racer, and the less-mighty yet beautiful 300 SL’s younger brother, the 190 SL. If it were in the 1980s or if it is now, luxury cars like the S-class would stand out, as well as perhaps the wagons, SUVs and crossovers — all status symbols. But throughout all these decades, one thing remained constant: engineering. The cars coming from the company, based in Stuttgart, Germany, were strong, durable, solid, and dependable. In recent years though, Mercedes has done more than just hint at its racing heritage, with high-speed road-going cars that display the “AMG” badge on their tails. Today, AMG is the high-performance subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz, headquartered about 13 miles northeast of the main plant. While it started as a racing-engine company in 1967, it slowly became more formally aligned with Mercedes, until Mercedes-Benz bought the majority interest in the company in 1999.

Let’s start with the specs, which clearly foreshadow what you can expect from the upcoming driving impressions: Motors: V8 twin-turbo up front (603 horsepower) and an electric motor at the rear (188 horsepower). Total horsepower: 791. Total torque: 1,055. 0-60 mph acceleration: 3.2 seconds. Top speed: 180 mph. Drive wheels: all-wheel drive.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF MERCEDES-BENZ

The latest addition to the Mercedes-AMG line is the S63 E Performance, a sedan — and a hybrid — that I had the pleasure of experiencing for the day, both on the Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, and along the canyons and valleys close to Mulholland Drive. And what a car it is.

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Note that the car is not marketed as Mercedes-Benz, but as Mercedes-AMG, reflecting the joint-venture nature of the “Skunk Works”, where the gremlins create masterful, powerful cars. To put an accent on that demarcation, the AMGs are built in Affalterbach rather than the main Mercedes-Benz plant in Stuttgart. And it does not come as a surprise to car aficionados that Mercedes-AMG created the engines that motivated some of today’s most sophisticated hypercars, such as the Pagani Zonda, Huaryra V12, and the Aston Martin V8. Pretty good company to be in, right? The car has a great stance, helped immeasurably by stunning 21-inch forged wheels, a design exclusive to AMG. The front grille is the first of its kind for AMG and an array of design elements and finishes differentiate it from other Mercedes-Benz models. The business end of the car is similarly impressive: it boasts a nine-speed transmission with seven drive modes, ranging from all-electric to drop the hammer and four settings of regen. Entering the car, it is hard to believe that this isn’t the Mercedes-Maybach sedan, considering how plush and commodious it is. Specially stitched and ventilated seats are complemented by surround sound; stateof-the-art air conditioning with vertical registers are located on the main dash; and exquisite woods and leathers, as well as a large back seat, make for a luxurious ride. Driving the car was pure joy. A wonderful combination of handling, accelerating, braking, and steering in a vehicle that tips the scales at around 5,500 pounds is a unique experience. The ride is supple, yet there’s no body roll on the corners. Push it and it takes it all, and then some. There is absolutely no compromise in this vehicle: it is as if Mercedes-AMG had made the largest — 17.5 feet long — and most luxurious car one that is both high-performing yet enjoyable to drive at the same time. Yes, it’s a hybrid, but the emphasis is not on miles-per-charge — it’s on blistering performance. And that works beautifully. At press time, the cost had yet to be announced, but the base price is expected to be around $200,000. Is it worth it? When accounting for the luxury it provides for nights on the town and the incredible performance it has when hitting the canyons, it’s hard to imagine what other vehicle in that price range can keep up.

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2024 Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail A romantic journey through “la vie en rose.” BY TIM LAPPEN

the Pacific Ocean and Pebble Beach Golf Links, La Rose Noire glided up the driveway to take its place in front of a wall of gorgeous dark red roses featuring a gold “RR” emblem in the middle, while Torsten MüllerÖtvös, Rolls-Royce’s CEO, introduced the brand’s latest creation.

Many ultra-luxury car makers and hypercar manufacturers will personalize your new ride. Though they may use different names to do so, they allow the buyer to choose the paint color, interior color, materials, seat and dash stitching, wheels, options packages, and, in some cases, enough options so that the purchase price of the fully-loaded car can go up to 100 percent more than the base car. But then, there is the concept of “coachbuilt.” This is how many luxury cars were created around the world starting at the end of the horse-drawn coach period, which declined after the late 1920s. During those years, a buyer would purchase a “rolling chassis” (frame, wheels, motor, transmission, etc.) from the builder and then commission a separate company to design the perfect body and interior for the car, making this a time-consuming and expensive process. Yet when it was completed, the owner would have a unique car that couldn’t be owned by anyone else. Some vintage coachbuilt cars have received extremely high bids at

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auction, despite it being almost impossible to determine their value. Yet, I doubt that people purchasing coachbuilt cars today are as concerned about their resale value, considering they’re mostly looking for a car that is a reflection of their taste while showing their passion for design. Starting in 2017, Rolls-Royce returned to its roots by introducing commissioned roadgoing art with its Sweptail — a two-door coachbuilt embodying the company’s wish to create never-before-seen cars. The design was intended to create an intimate and cosseting interior, wrapping the occupants in comfort and luxury while also providing a smooth and powerful ride and scenic views with a full-length glass roof. The 2021 Boat Tail continued that design language. It is the car of an extrovert, one who enjoys driving with what Rolls-Royce calls a “highly social open top.” Let me now introduce you to La Rose Noire, the first of four coachbuilt “droptails” to be built, which was unveiled on the eve of the 2023 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in California. The open two-seater (it has a removable roof) is the first roadster body style in Rolls-Royce’s modern history. It was inspired by the allure of the Black Baccara rose, a flower grown in France with velvet-like petals, beloved by the doyenne of the commissioning family.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ROLLS-ROYCE MOTOR CARS

AT AN ELEGANT RECEPTION HIGH IN THE HILLS OVERLOOKING

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Photos do not do the color of the car justice. The incredibly luminescent and jewel-like red paint required some 150 iterations to perfect — a finish so dynamic that, while on display on a perfectly clear, sunny day, it shone with many different shades of red. The red colorway is a lovely counterpoint to the black-mist chrome accoutrements that adorn the body, as well as the bumpers, grille work, and Spirit of Ecstasy adorning the top of the Pantheon grille. Inside the car, the woodwork was created by combining hundreds of wooden shapes, while the parquetry is comprised of an extraordinary 1,602 pieces of wood sourced from France. The latter is the most complex project ever undertaken by Rolls-Royce. It provides the perfect canvas on which to illustrate the flow of red rose petals that float from fore to aft, even when the car is not in motion. Rolls-Royce director of design Anders Warming and head of coachbuild design Alex Innes were both in attendance, pointing out the innumerable design touches that were put together to make La Rose Noire one-of-a-kind, yet recognizable. The designers also collaborated with Audemars Piguet to create a special one-off timepiece that can be placed into its dash receptable as an in-car clock or which can be worn by the car owners. The 43mm Royal Oak Concept SplitSeconds Chronograph GMT Large Date runs on a unique self-winding Calibre 4407 movement, with a flyback chronograph and split-seconds mechanism. It has red counters and a red inner bezel that both stand out against the black openworked dial that is highlighted with rhodium-toned bevels. The company’s return to the coachbuilt era has been terrific for both the special customers who commission these beautiful vehicles — some of which can be seen at the most prestigious car shows in the world, such as Villa d’Este — and those of us who aren’t buyers yet still enjoy the gorgeous styling and workmanship emblematic of these exclusive cars. This latest series — the quartet of Droptails each is to be produced in its own variant — harken back to the time when time and money were not as important in the creating of these cars: achieving extraordinary results was paramount.

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Nicolas Ghesquière’s Cruise 2024 collection for Louis Vuitton calls for a tranquil escape. In true Ghesquière fashion, he captures modern femininity and profound romanticism, weaving together contrasting silhouettes and unexpected materials. Baroque opulence blends in with contemporary neoprene elements for an incredibly effortless result. FASHION DIRECTOR ADRIENNE FAUROTE PHOTOGRAPHY BENJO ARWAS CREATIVE DIRECTOR & FASHION STYLIST SHALEV LAVÀN HAIR STYLIST VIRGINIE PINEDA AT THE VISIONARIES AGENCY USING COLOR WOW MAKEUP ARTIST SARAH USLAN AT THE VISIONARIES AGENCY USING CHANEL BEAUTY AND KYPRIS MODELS SEAN LEVY AT ELITE MODELS PHOTO ASSISTANTS CHRISTIAN SCOTT & DANNY MOULTON STYLING ASSISTANT CASSIDY MAMULA ALL CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES BY LOUIS VUITTON SHOT ON LOCATION AT MALIBU ROAD, DESIGNED BY JAE OMAR, JAEOMARDESIGN.COM

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WITH ITS FASHION EYE BOOK SERIES, LOUIS VUITTON EXPLORES THE WORLD THROUGH THE LENS OF FASHION PHOTOGRAPHY. BY ADRIENNE FAUROTE PHOTOS COURTESY OF LOUIS VUITTON MALLETIER / OLIVIA FRÉMINEAU

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There’s no denying that Louis Vuitton is a pioneer in marrying the worlds of luxury fashion and travel, whether it’s with its original signature trunk or its latest travel photography collection. Louis Vuitton’s Fashion Eye Series has carved a niche where legends of the craft and emerging talents engage in an unprecedented dialogue. This extraordinary series confronts the contemporary with hidden archival treasures, resulting in a collection of visually captivating photography books set to become reference works. Each title is a true masterpiece, entrusted with the hands of prominent, authoritative editors who guide readers through extensive imagery while sharing a glimpse of each photographer’s life through interviews and critical essays. Always celebrating the art of exploration, Louis Vuitton recently added three new titles to the series — Vienna by Stefanie Moshammer, Hong Kong by Frank Horvat, and Deauville by Omar Victor Diop, all providing a unique perspective. Joining an impressive repertoire of cities ranging from Paris to Buenos Aires, the new Fashion Eye titles continue to redefine the relationship between fashion, photography, and travel.

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Hong Kong, imagined by Italian-born French photographer Horvat, captures the bustling streets of the city to reveal its palpable energy through previously unpublished blackand-white images. Horvat’s project started in 1962, when he captured these images at a time shaped by an influx of Chinese refugees and British rule. Now historic in its own right, the imagery gives a glimpse at a bygone era of this dense city.

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Moshammer’s Vienna offers a fresh take on her hometown, challenging clichés and presenting an unexpected portrait of the city. Her work transcends conventional storytelling, delving into the capital’s collective imagination and unraveling the mysteries of Vienna’s physical and mental landscape. It ultimately shapes a unique narrative that bridges past and present, providing a new perspective on the essence of the place.

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Diop’s Deauville explores the iconic Normanic seaside town, drawing connections between the landscapes of the region and his native Dakar. A visionary photographer, Diop has consistently captured attention through his artistic amalgamation of color, atmosphere, composition, and fashion into compelling portrait photography. As part of the Fashion Eye Series, he embarked on a creative residency in Deauville, leading his project to expose the reshaping of the town’s architecture while projecting elements of his personal narrative and cultural influences.

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Gucci Allegoria High Jewelry tanzanite, yellow beryls, and diamond bracelet

Introducing Gucci Allegoria, Gucci’s high jewelry collection that narrates the story of nature’s ephemeral seasons through a rich palette of precious gems and diamonds. FASHION DIRECTOR ADRIENNE FAUROTE PHOTOGRAPHY JEFFREY WESTBROOK STYLING KAT LOZHNIKOVA AT ART DEPARTMENT ALL JEWELRY BY GUCCI ALL PIECES ARE PRICE UPON REQUEST AND AVAILABLE AT GUCCI PLACE VENDÔME

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Gucci Allegoria High Jewelry rubellite, mandarin garnet, and diamond tiara

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Gucci Allegoria High Jewelry green tourmaline and diamond earrings and green and fancy tourmaline with yellow beryl and diamond necklace

Gucci Allegoria High Jewelry Spinel, paraiba tourmaline, and chrysoberyls necklace and spinel, paraiba tourmaline, and chrysoberyls earrings

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Gucci Allegoria High Jewelry pink sapphire and mandarin garnet necklace

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AMERICAN SPLENDOR It’s time to check in to these haute new American luxury hotels. BY LAURA SCHREFFLER

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PHOTO COURTESY OF HALL ARTS HOTEL

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RAFFLES BOSTON Luxury brand Raffles has come to play in the States in a big way, opening its first North American property in Boston’s Back Bay. The 35-story, 147room, sustainable, new-build hotel represents the first mixed-use development for the 136-year-old Singaporean brand. The $400 million investment in the project is a reflection here: this LEEDcertified building is a beautiful property, with a dramatic exterior sheathed in reflective glass — a tribute to its neighbor, the John Hancock Tower. Award-winning hospitality design firm Stonehill Taylor drew inspiration from the city’s historic and cultural surroundings to imagine the locally inspired design. Guests will notice details like copper accents (a nod to Paul Revere’s copper plating company), historical illustrations that adorn custom wall coverings, and greenery that references the window boxes found throughout the Back Bay. There are dramatic, unique touches throughout the hotel as well, chief among them a three-story sky lobby, a grand staircase that spirals through the atrium, and Writer’s Lounge, a signature of the Raffles brand. Upscale dining experiences are available too. Guests can visit Amar, a Portuguese-Bostonian hybrid; Long Bar & Terrace, a Paolo Ferrari-designed lounge that pairs cocktails with sweeping views of the South End; and Blind Duck, a speakeasy that offers specially crafted cocktails and small bites. There’s also a range of amenities, all of which have been designed by the world-renowned Rockwell Group: a state-of-the-art gym, a 66-foot pool, and a prestigious Guerlain Spa that features treatments of the renowned Parisian beauty and wellness brand. 40 Trinity Pl, Boston, MA 02116

PHOTO COURTESY OF RAFFLES BOSTON

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Aman New York is one of those rare properties; the one that comes along once in a blue moon and makes such a significant impact that it has all of the world — never mind all of Manhattan — abuzz. The Jean-Michel Gathy-designed property is nothing less than an oasis in the city, so quietly luxurious that it’s very nearly like not being in New York at all. Yet, here it is: smack dab in the center, on the corner of Fifth Avenue and 57th Street, two blocks away from Central Park, close to Broadway, Rockefeller Center, and more. Its 83 suites are among the largest in the city and inspired by the airy architecture of Aman’s properties in Southeast Asia. All suites offer a functioning fireplace and massive, opulent bathrooms with oval soaking tubs, marble rain showers, and double vanities. There’s so much to love here, from the personalized check-in processes and a house car — rare for New York — to a gratis minibar of decadent treats (excluding alcohol) and daily scheduled wellness activities. Speaking of which, its Aman Spa is a spot where relaxation is almost a prerequisite, with offerings meant to detox, ground, and energize. Dining outlets follow suit: the convivial Italian restaurant Arva, Japanese eatery Nama, and year-round outdoor Garden Terrace all offer breathtaking views of the Big Apple (the subterranean Jazz Club intentionally does not). The hotel now offers even more: a partnership with Leica provides options for a personal photoshoot; a session with a renowned fashion photographer and model gives an in-depth look at the industry; and a three-day workshop helps guests master portrait photography with renowned celebrity photographer Mark Mann. Also available are experiences with artists for one-on-one sit-down sessions, art historian guided city tours, and more. It’s the personalized touches that make this so magical — because where else would one expect to receive a hand-drawn, personalized art card after a special meal? 730 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019

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PHOTO COURTESY OF AMAN NEW YORK

AMAN NEW YORK

PHOTO COURTESY OF FONTAINEBLEAU LAS VEGAS

FONTAINEBLEAU LAS VEGAS The opening of Fontainebleau Las Vegas is easily the biggest of the year, and I do mean in every way: scope, size, prestige, and fanfare. The hotel, which makes its debut this month on December 13, is a 67-story affair residing on nearly 25 acres of land at the end of the Las Vegas Strip with 3,644 luxury rooms and suites, 550,000 square feet of customizable meeting and convention space, more than 150,000 square feet of gaming space, a collection of world-class restaurants and shops, exquisite pools, vibrant nightlife, and vitality-enhancing spa and wellness offerings. It features designs and collaborations with some of the best players in the game: Carlos Zapata Studio, David Collins Studio, Rockwell Group, Lissoni & Partners, Jeff Leatham, Lifescapes, and Jeffrey Beers International, among others. The rooms and suites, as designed by an in-house team led by Fontainebleau Development’s John Rawlins, evoke an understated, timeless elegance in a color palette of blue and silver water tones with dashes of coral-pink, accented by mercury-glass mirrors and brass details. Silver-grey wood veneer, silver-leaf details, pearlescent shagreen inlaid surfaces, and Arabescato marble define the case-goods and other hard surfaces, while custom brass bowtie-shaped drawer-pulls represent both exquisite attention to detail and a nod to Fontainebleau’s history. The rooms also feature custom carpeting in a linear, Art Deco pattern of dove-grey and shades of blue that establish a geometric foundation for the assorted curvaceous furniture selections that rest upon it. As opulent as the rooms are, it’s the sheer scale of the F&B concepts that blow my mind: there will be 36 first-to-market restaurants and bars, which will open this year and continue to roll out through 2024. They include efforts by chefs such as Gabriela Cámara, Evan Funke, and Josh Capon, and restaurateurs inclusive of David Rodolitz, Alan Yau, and David Grutman, who will be debuting the Sin City versions of his Miami staples Komodo and Papi Steak. As if this wasn’t enough, there is a 14,000-square-foot fitness center and 55,000-square-foot spa with 44 treatment rooms, a purifying salt cave, healing infrared sauna and invigorating event sauna, his & hers hydrotherapy lounges, as well as a co-ed sensory room with communal healing waters. Additional resort amenities will include a 96,500-square-foot luxury boutique retail district on the first two levels of the resort, a six-acre pool district, the LIV nightlife experience, and the forthcoming LIV BEACH daylife experience. 2777 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109

PHOTO COURTESY OF HOTEL PER LA

HOTEL PER LA Los Angeles has been having a bit of a hotel renaissance in recent years, and this is apparent in Hotel Per La, the latest five-star stay to open downtown. As with many things in the area, what’s old has become new again. The hotel is housed in the former Giannini Place building, originally built in 1922 as the headquarters of the Bank of Italy. Reimagined by HN Capital Partners and Sage Hospitality Group, the property features 241 rooms and suites, as well as grand public spaces for guests and locals alike. The hotel includes 10,000 square feet of event space and an array of dining options such as Ristorante Per L’Ora, an upscale Italian restaurant; Café Ora, a daytime café; and Bar Clara, a rooftop bar offering poolside drinks and dramatic views of the LA skyline. “Per La” — “for the” in Italian — is a nod to the building’s Italian beginnings: its founder, Amadeo Pietro Giannini, believed in the dignity and abilities of those commonly overlooked, and as such, “Per La” means “for Los Angeles, and people like you.” Today, the 12-story property retains the building’s signature neoclassical architectural features. Doric columns, ornate gold and blue ceilings, and marble floors meet modern touches like airy linens, amorphic lighting, and pops of colors. The rooms are just as exquisite. They feature European white oakwood floors and Persian rugs in vibrant colors alongside 4,000 vintage art pieces, original photographs, and illustrations from commissioned artists. The marble writing desks with settees and European-style bathrooms with Terrazzo floored walk-in showers or freestanding pedestal bathtubs complete the spaces. The addition of a heated rooftop pool makes this one to beat. 649 S Olive St, Los Angeles, CA 90014

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The newly opened St. Regis Chicago has a pretty impressive pedigree: the 101-story tower is the tallest building in the world designed by a female architect, and who wouldn’t be here for that? Beyond this unique selling point, its design is very creative, featuring a distinctive design made of an interconnected series of stacked, frustum-shaped towers that extend to various heights. The building’s crystalline form nods to the facets of a shimmering gem, with a gradient of greenblue glass inspired by nature, meant to be a reflection of the colors of Lake Michigan and the Chicago River. Its 159 guestrooms and 33 suites, all designed by Gensler in a curated palette of natural stone and wood, follow suit on the nature front. In contrast, the hotel’s common spaces, spa, and Presidential Suite, designed by KTGY Simeone Deary Design Group, are decorated in metallic materials and colors such as copper and rust. Interwoven, geometric details and angular lines nod to the Great Chicago Fire as well as the city’s geographic interconnectivity of waterways, buildings, and green spaces. These modern elements are found throughout the hotel, from the fitness center, which overlooks the Chicago River and Navy Pier, to the palatial, heated indoor pool that offers stunning views of the city and Lake Michigan. Add in fabulous Japanese cuisine from the likes of chef Hisanobu Osaka, desserts courtesy of pastry chef Juan Gutierrez—winner of Netflix’s School of Chocolate — and a soon-to-openTuscan steakhouse in Tre Dita, the first venture outside of Los Angeles for award-winning chef Evan Funke; an amazing spa; and signature St. Regis experiences, including afternoon tea, evening champagne sabering, and butler service, and the St. Regis may very well become your new Chi-town go-to. 401 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601

PHOTO COURTESY OF ST. REGIS CHICAGO

ST. REGIS CHICAGO

The new crowning jewel of Dallas’ 19-block Harwood District is Hôtel Swexan, a 134-room boutique concept that charmingly fuses the family-owned property’s Swiss heritage with quintessential Texan hospitality. It is, indeed, where its rather unique name comes from, “Swexan” meaning “Swiss meets Texan.” The hotel has a serious pedigree as well: it’s located in a 22-story modern tower designed by world-renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, who was not only recognized as one of Time magazine’s most influential people of 2021, but who is responsible for the Tokyo Olympic stadium, the new Rolex Building in Harwood District, and the LVMH headquarters in Japan. The mirrored structure exemplifies Kuma’s philosophy that buildings should enrich the connection between their architecture and the environment they’re in. And in the case of Hôtel Swexan, the interiors mirror the exterior, with art and design elements inspired by exploration and adventure drawing cues from various global cities inclusive of 100 different types of natural stones and woods and decorations of antique fireplace mantels from the 19th and 20th centuries. One of the hotel’s hallmark features is that every bathroom is one-ofa-kind, covered with different wallpapers, lighting, sink fixtures, floors, and tiling. There are also eight unique suites, five dining and drinking concepts, a private social club, and an expansive rooftop pool with panoramic views of the Dallas skyline. 2575 McKinnon St, Dallas, TX 75201

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PHOTO COURTESY OF HÔTEL SWEXAN

HÔTEL SWEXAN

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PHOTO COURTESY OF HALL ARTS HOTEL

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HALL ARTS HOTEL HALL Arts Hotel is the first hotel in the Dallas Arts District — the largest contiguous arts district in the country — and one with a prestigous wine pedigree to boot in that the property was developed by Craig and Kathryn Hall, the co-owners of Napa Valley’s award-winning HALL Wines. Designed by HKS Architects with interiors by Bentel & Bentel, the 11-story property flaunts a sleek, contemporary glass and steel jewel box design for its 183 guest rooms and 19 Arts District-inspired suites — each of which is named in tribute to cultural venues and performances that embody the area. It features a rooftop pool, a robust contemporary art collection, and Ellie’s, a sophisticated and locally beloved eatery with a lounge and terrace area.The restaurant not only uses sustainable, farm-to-table fare, but it also has a robust wine program representative of its owners. Art is a big focus here as well, and as such, the property offers its own art tour, alongside other offerings such as a 2,900-square-foot fitness studio with Matrix equipment and Pelotons; complimentary bikes; and homey touches such as HALL branded dog amenities and in-room watercolor kits to further enhance the stay. 1717 Leonard St, Dallas, TX 75201

PHOTO COURTESY OF THOMPSON HOUSTON

THOMPSON HOUSTON Set in a soaring 36-story skyscraper, Thompson Houston is the city’s newest and most fashionable landmark. It suits the city to a “T,” housed as such in a refined, mid-century modern building with a glass-and-steel facade. The hotel’s coveted location in verdant Buffalo Bayou Park centers the property as a true oasis within the city, a 160-acre green space adjacent to downtown Houston overflowing with diverse flora that is delightfully close to Montrose, the city’s artistic hub. The 172 guestrooms, 34 of which are suites, play to its strengths, showcasing glorious views of the H-Town skyline and Buffalo Bayou Park from floor-to-ceiling windows. Each room is fresh and modern, paying homage to the hotel’s natural surroundings through a synthesis of earthy colors, organic materials, and hardwood flooring. The attention to detail here is as excellent as the views: from an unparalleled honor bar stocked with delicious local goodies to the spa-grade plush robes and professional-grade Tivoli audio systems, every detail is designed to make guests feel like true VIPs. That each room is decked out with a custom en-suite bathroom featuring luxury-grade stone wall treatments, rose-gold and bronze fixtures, and D.S. & Durga bath and body products only furthers this point. All guests are also treated to one of Houston’s largest pool decks — an astonishing acre in size — with a laid-back café, private cabanas, as well as a peerless infinity pool with unobstructed downtown views. A private heliport provides the ultimate way to make an entrance for even the most discerning of guests. 1717 Allen Pkwy, Houston, TX 77019

The Mayfair House Hotel & Garden isn’t a new hotel per se, but this Coconut Grove original just completed a massive remodel two years in the making, debuting a brand-new name to boot — it was known as the Mayfair Hotel & Spa. The transformation of this five-star boutique hotel includes an array of newly developed concepts, including a change of culinary and cocktail recipes at Mayfair Grill, the Fountain Bar, and Sipsip Calypso Rum Bar. The place features fully renovated guest rooms and curated art from local and international artists inclusive of glass pieces by Verre Eglomise artist Jane Richardson Mack, a lobby installation by Miami multimedia artist Michele Oka Doner, and a hand-painted wall mural by Bahamian artist Angelika Wallace-Whitfield. Additional art by Ryan Humphrey, Lee Clarke, Shauna Lan La, and photographer Anita Calero are highlighted in the guest rooms. Architect Kenneth Treister’s framework is still very much intact, but the hotel’s interiors have been updated to resemble small private homes, complete with terraces, as well as living, dining, and sleeping areas courtesy of New York-based interior design studio Goodrich. Guest rooms offer thoughtful luxuries, including carved wooden headboards, deep standalone bathtubs, private walled gardens, and outdoor showers. As a tribute to the neighborhood’s inherent freedom of expression, each room at Mayfair House Hotel & Garden is unique, promising guests a new experience each time they visit. Impressively the same with each visit, however, is the hotel’s vibrant and sun-filled courtyard and garden, filled with lush plantings, cascading fountains, beautiful pools, fanciful copper lighting, and sculptural architectural details that make for a stunning, secret garden-like touch. 3000 Florida Avenue, Miami, FL 33133

PHOTO COURTESY OF MAYFAIR HOUSE HOTEL & GARDEN

MAYFAIR HOUSE HOTEL & GARDEN

Washington, D.C. has become an even trendier destination these days with the emergence of a Pendry hotel. Pendry Washington DC - The Wharf, the seventh in the brand’s portfolio, is in a prime position on the Potomac River, along the iconic mile-long waterfront playground destination known as The Wharf. Designed by ODA with interiors by DesignAgency, this haute hotel has a timeless, European-inspired grandeur while still drawing inspiration from the iconic colonnades and limestone buildings the capital is known for. Its overall aesthetic is grounded by old-world flooring, metal detailing, and plush textiles, offset by light colors and a cozy, almost homey feel that is best presented in its top accommodation: the 1,852-square-foot, two-bedroom, two-bathroom Pendry Suite. And, as with all Pendry properties, dining is a special affair. The hotel is home to three signature dining and bar concepts, inclusive of Moonraker, a rooftop restaurant and bar; Flora Flora, a Latin American-inspired brunch spot; and Bar Pendry, an intimate, richly designed space drenched in moody blue and crimson hues. It’s fully rounded by a curated modern art collection, a state-ofthe-art fitness center, and the signature Spa Pendry. 655 Water St SW, Washington, D.C. 20024

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PHOTO COURTESY OF PENDRY WASHINGTON DC – THE WHARF

PENDRY WASHINGTON DC – THE WHARF

PHOTO COURTESY OF 1 HOTEL NASHVILLE

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1 HOTEL NASHVILLE

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1 Hotels, the sustainable luxury lifestyle brand founded by hospitality visionary Barry Sternlicht, has opened its first eco-focused property in Music City, and this LEED-certified hotel has really struck a chord with residents and visitors alike. A verdant ivy-covered facade and native landscaping evoke nearby natural attractions, from the bustle of the Cumberland River to the Great Smoky Mountains and the Natchez Trace, while still being a stone’s throw from the beating heart of Nashville and within walking distance of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Here, there are 215 rooms, including 61 suites, all of which feature rough-hewn poster beds and workbench-like vanities. Reclaimed woodpaneled walls are surrounded by the extensive use of organic and natural materials in the rooms, suites and other public areas. Sustainabilitythemed touchpoints include wooden room keys, an in-room water filtration system, tumblers and carafes made from recycled wine bottles, smart thermostats, and the 1 Less Thing year-round program that enables guests to leave behind gently used clothing items for 1 Hotel to donate to local organizations in need. The hotel also features three distinct dining concepts that reflect a commitment to simplicity, luxury, and sustainability. 1 Kitchen Nashville features farm-to-table cuisine from culinary director and Top Chef alum Chris Crary; Harriet’s Rooftop makes use of sustainable ingredients for a slew of cocktails, mocktails, and Asian-inspired bites; and Neighbors, a laid-back all-day café. All of them implement a TRUE zero waste program, which encourages a more sustainable resource management across the property. Health and wellness are priorities here as well, with in-room yoga mats, as well as a Bamford Wellness Spa and an Anatomy fitness and yoga studio, both inspired by 1 Hotels’ mission to foster a closer relationship between people and nature. 710 Demonbreun St, Nashville, TN 37203

PHOTO COURTESY OF NOBU HOTEL ATLANTA

NOBU HOTEL ATLANTA When it comes to unparalleled quiet luxury, no one does it better than Nobu Matsuhisa and his business partners, Robert De Niro and Meir Teper. As such, their Nobu Hotel Atlanta, located in the Phipps Plaza’s luxury retail development within the prestigious Buckhead neighborhood, is as excellent as can be expected. Atlanta, Georgia’s capital, is known as the “city in a forest” because of its exceptionally lush canopy of trees such as magnolias, dogwoods, Southern pines, and oaks, which cover much of the city. The designers at Rockwell Group took inspiration from this verdant landscape as well as Japanese arts and crafts to create a design that echoes the ethos of Matsuhisa’s signature, world-renowned Japanese cuisine. This means a property of 152 thoughtfully curated guest rooms — including 27 suites — that feature Japanese inspired décor, the largest of which is the Nobu Villa at 2,200 square feet of space. The most unique plae to stay is the 825-square-foot Porsche suite, a collaboration with the luxury auto brand whose US headquarters are in Atlanta. Here, guests will find bestin-class amenities consistent with Nobu’s signature style but customized for the Porsche minded-lifestyle inclusive of oneof-a-kind art pieces that pepper the spacious living area; sleek, Porsche-inspired décor; exclusive memorabilia that celebrates some of the brand’s key moments; and a selection of coffee table books that provide guests with an inside look into the notable brand. There’s also a Porsche house car available for guests — a Taycan — and the utterly cool Porsche experience, which includes a two-night stay in the Porsche Icon Suite, dinner for two at Nobu Atlanta, a Nobu champagne bottle in-room, a personalized Porsche robe to take home, and an omakase tasting for two. The hotel also features a Nobu restaurant of course, as well as a saltwater pool and 24-hour fitness center. 3520 Peachtree Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30326 HAUTE LIVING NAPLES 1 1 5

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SEAFARING DREAMS WITH THE PARDO ENDURANCE 60

BY MARI HERNANDEZ RUBENSTEIN

PHOTOS COURTESY OF GERMAIN YACHTS

Experience the yachting world like never before with the Pardo Endurance 60, a gamechanger designed to redefine long-distance navigation with its revolutionary approach to space, time, and luxury. Also known as the Pardo 60, this magnificent vessel awaits you at Germain Yachts in Naples, Florida.

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The Pardo 60 boasts a state-of-the-art propulsion system featuring 2 VOLVO IPS 800 engines and the Volvo Interceptor +ACP system. This dynamic duo delivers calibrated speed, low consumption, exceptional performance, and reduced environmental impact. In addition, it comes equipped with two 16” Volvo displays on the saloon helm station and a Volvo display on the flybridge helm station, putting intuitive navigation and control right at your fingertips. An electric anchor system with a 32kg Trefoil Anchor and 75 meters of chain ensures secure anchoring, while additional features like portholes, a hydraulic retractable gangway, and a bathing platform with an integrated ladder add to the overall convenience and luxury. Zach Germain, owner of Germain Yachts, believes the Pardo 60 truly shines in its unwavering dedication to luxury and entertainment with features like hydraulic electric biminis and side terraces, as well as the Premium Platinum Plus Entertainment Package. The spacious interior and comfortable cabins create an oasis of opulence, perfect for long journeys, Gulf cruises, or extended stays at sea. In a world where time is of the essence, the Pardo Endurance 60 allows you to savor the journey as much as the destination. Whether you’re crossing oceans or anchoring in secluded coves, this yacht is your gateway to a world of unparalleled comfort and adventure. Experience the Pardo Endurance 60 firsthand at Germain Yachts in Naples, Florida. Visit their showroom at 895 10th St S, Naples FL 34102 or explore their website at www.germainyachts.com to learn more about this masterpiece of maritime engineering and set sail on a journey unlike any other.

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RESIDENCE

FOR THE REAL ESTATE MARKET IN NAPLES NAPLES TOP REALTORS SHARE INSIGHT, ADVICE, AND THEIR FORECASTS FOR THE 2024 YEAR FOR THE SOUTHWEST FLORIDA MARKET. BY DARBY KORDONOWY

DANTE DISABATO Dante DiSabato is a highly dedicated and knowledgeable real estate professional with a comprehensive background in development, construction, product programming, and quality analysis. His commitment to his clients is evident through his availability at all hours and his hands-on, concierge approach to brokerage. His expertise in the market is augmented by his role in Limitless Development, which he co-founded with his father, Mark DiSabato. Their company is recognized for crafting luxurious homes in Naples, with Dante contributing significant market insights and value to their projects. His achievements include developing properties in prestigious areas such as Port Royal and Old Naples, with recent developments valued at over $40 million, marking him as one of the youngest developers in the Port Royal area. This profile underscores Dante’s depth of experience and his proactive, client-centered philosophy in the real estate market. “2023 was slower than 2022, but because we are still at an all-time low of inventory there isn’t a lot to pick from,” says Dante DiSabato. “And sellers aren’t selling. It’s not that prices went down; they were level steady in 2023. The craziness of 2021 was not sustainable. 2023 was sustainable, but there just wasn’t a lot of action because the spread between the buyers and sellers was so wide, and honestly, there still isn’t a lot of inventory. Buyers are still having a hard time wrapping their heads around pricing, and sellers now have comparables available to sell their homes.” DiSabato believes that 2024 will be similar to 2023. There will be some big sales that break things loose and free people’s confidence in the market. While we aren’t influenced by interest rates, when rates do drop, more people jump into the market, spurring all levels. For his best advice, Dante DiSabato believes you should trust your real estate agent. “Review the comparables and make decisions based on actual facts,” DiSabato adds. “Remember, sellers have comparables now that will back up these values.” Property Highlight 3120 Crayton Rd Naples, FL 34103 $6,500,000 An exquisite home is currently on the market in the highly desirable Moorings community. This stunning 5-bedroom, 5.5-bathroom residence boasts a chef’s kitchen with abundant storage, a built-in pantry, an oversized island with bar seating, and stunning countertops. Throughout the home, you’ll find a modern design and decor, with high ceilings, beautiful wood flooring, and distinctive architectural details. The master suite includes custom closets and a spa-like bathroom, perfect for relaxation. The well-designed floor plan allows for seamless transitions from the interior living space to the impressive outdoor living area, which takes full advantage of picturesque views, featuring voluminous wood ceilings, a captivating fireplace, and an inviting pool and spa. All of this is just moments away from the vibrant downtown Naples, renowned shopping, gourmet dining, and pristine white-sand beaches. Follow Dante DiSabato on Instagram and Facebook @dantedisabato.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF DARREN MILESAND SUN SERVICES

+2024 PREDICTIONS

THE RESOP TEAM Over a span of 14 years, Chris and Kara Resop traveled the world as part of Chris’s career in Major League Baseball. In that time, they’ve achieved remarkable progress and have fostered an extensive network of dependable relationships and a fervent passion for their business. Beginning their journey in real estate with no sales to their name just eight years prior, they now approach a significant milestone of $1 billion in total sales, with a notable $200 million closed in the year 2022 alone. Their success is not a product of mere chance but a testament to their purposeful and strategic approach. Their collaboration has proven to be effective, thorough, and meticulously organized. Kara and her husband Chris are Naples’ natives, born and raised, and have personally witnessed the remarkable growth and transformation of their hometown. Now, as an adult, raising a family, working, and thriving in Naples, Kara has come to appreciate the lifestyle this city offers. Despite her husband’s previous career in Major League Baseball, which took Kara and Chris to various parts of the country, and other parts of the world, they have found themselves drawn back to Naples. While the excitement of exploring different places served them well, it became clear that Naples was where they wanted to plant their roots and raise their family. “Our decision to settle here is rooted in the thriving community, and I can personally attest to the city’s welcoming environment for families, businesses, and retirees alike,” says Kara Resop. Kara believes that many people will continue to want to live and thrive in Naples for the same reasons she and Chris do, and she doesn’t foresee that ending anytime soon. “Beyond its real estate allure, Naples, FL, offers more than just tax benefits, which attracted an influx of individuals recently,” added Kara. “The year-round warm weather, a strong sense of safety, excellent schools, nearby universities, parks and preserves, beautiful beaches, and an abundance of fine dining and amenities contribute to making Naples a truly special place. Naples is a timeless destination, a classic, and classics tend to improve with time.” Dynamic duo Kara and Chris Resop discuss their predictions for the 2024 real estate market in Naples, FL. For sellers, Chris discusses that strategic pricing will be crucial in 2024. He believes that pricing properties accurately can lead to quicker sales, higher sale prices, and a favorable return on investment. Chris and Kara anticipate that buyers will have more options in the coming year, but prices will likely hold steady. “We anticipate another strong year for real estate in Naples in 2024,” said Chris Resop. “The overwhelming demand from individuals relocating from out of state to Naples continues to exert pressure on our market. Our advice for buyers is not to wait if they find a property that meets their criteria. Waiting for prices to drop may result in missing out on the ideal home. Some buyers seem to be waiting for interest rates to decrease and housing prices to come down. However, once interest rates decrease, we can expect another wave of buyers to enter the market, seeking opportunities that align with their preferences.” “Naples continues to stand out as a sought-after real estate investment hub, drawing attention for its location, robust economy, and quality of life,” remarks Chris Resop. “Over the past years, Naples’ real estate market has grown, fueled by strong demand and limited inventory, leading to continuous price appreciation.” Chris recommends to buyers and sellers in the Naples market to engage the services of a seasoned and well-informed real estate agent with a thorough understanding of the local market.

Property Highlight 3841 Crayton Rd. Naples FL, 34103 $15,995,000 The latest enchanting waterfront abode in Naples, this five-bedroom, six-bathroom property is situated in the highly sought-after Park Shore neighborhood. It delivers the ultimate in opulent waterfront living with breathtaking views of Naples’ tranquil Inner Doctors Bay. Besides its ideal boating location, this residence offers residents numerous options for recreation and entertainment. Inside, you’ll find hardwood floors, lofty ceilings, generous built-in storage, unique light fixtures, and a fully equipped chef’s kitchen, perfect for hosting gatherings. Follow The Resop Team on Instagram and Facebook @TheResopTeam.

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HAUTE LIVING EVENT AND THE BUTCHER PRIVATE 3

THE BUTCHER PRIVATE, SHIMMERED UNDER THE glow of a Dom Perignon and Haute Living collaboration early December. Amidst whispers of luxury and clinking flutes, guests savored exclusive champagnes paired with a gastronomic symphony created by Veljko Pavicevic and Corinne Ryan’s team. Esteemed evening sponsors included Yamron Jewelers, BU Club and Home-Tech.

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1. Debbie Toler and Bill Toler. 2. Raimonda and Rick Childress. 3. Corinne Ryan, Seth Similoff, Veljko Pavicevik. 4. Mari Rubenstein and Bill Gaston. 5. Sonya Sawyer and Brian Sawyer. 6. Debbie Toler, Laura Kendall, Natalie Harley, Sonya Sawyer, Mari Rubenstein, Raimonda Childress. 7. Benji and Laura Kendall. 8. Fil Mercer, Wendy Mercer, Brian Mayotte.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE LOS ANGLE

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FERRARI OF NAPLES RALLY TO REELS: THE FERRARI MOVIE PREMIERE 2

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BRAD YOUNG

FERRARI OF NAPLES, THE UNSURPASSED LEADER IN LUXURY lifestyle in Southwest Florida, hosted an extraordinary private screening of the highly anticipated Ferrari Movie. The evening began with a glamorous cocktail hour at the dealership, where attendees mingled, shared stories, and immersed themselves in the captivating Ferrari spirit. Guests then embarked on an epic rally to Regal Cinemas, where they were treated like true VIPs. The atmosphere was electric, with cameras flashing and the buzz of anticipation filling the air.

These fortunate few witnessed the Ferrari Movie before its official release on Christmas Day which beautifully captured Ferrari’s rich history and passion, leaving over 400 distinguished guests in awe. This unforgettable event, meticulously organized by Dagney Wysong and her team at Ferrari of Naples, exemplified their commitment to providing extraordinary experiences for their esteemed clients. The attention to detail, from the seamless logistics to the personalized touches, showcased their dedication to creating cherished moments.

1. Matt Ganzak, Dagney Wysong, and Sachi Ganzak. 2. Ferrari of Naples. 3. John Defelice, Patty Foster, Helder Rosa, Bruce Foster, and Franklin Bass. 4. Alessandra Rosa, Morgan Mills, and Gianna Rosa. 5. Jim Iacovino, and Janice Iacovino

11291 TAMIAMI TRL N NAPLES, FL 34110-1635 Tel.239.256.1400 dwysong@newcountry.com ferrariofnaples.com

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