VOL 42 NOVEMBER 2023
www.modernluxuria.com
CONTRIBUTORS
PUBLISHED BY MODERN LUXURIA LTD.
Chelsey Belec Twyla Campbell
FOUNDER & PUBLISHER
Cooper & O'Hara
Elsa Amorim
Marcia J. Hamm Pablo Herrera-Cruz
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Steven Hope
Twyla Campbell
Phebe Melan Francesca Roznicki
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Tom Sedens
Brandy Belitsky
Erin Walker
COPY EDITOR Lucie Oosterveld Modern Luxuria is a digital magazine and is published monthly. For subscription inquiries email: hello@modernluxuria.com No part of this magazine, including text, photographs, illustrations, advertising layouts or other graphics may be reproduced in any way without the prior written consent of the publisher. Modern Luxuria Magazine is not responsible for loss, damage or any other injury to unsolicited manuscripts, unsolicited artwork (including but not limited to drawings, photographs, or transparencies) or any unsolicited material. By accepting and publishing advertisements, Modern Luxuria Magazine is in no way endorsing or guaranteeing the quality of service or product with those advertisements.
Thank you
VOL 42 NOVEMBER 2023
COVER Photography by Steven Hope
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Beauty is radiant joyful confident kind timeless
Photography by Romy Young
Dr. Thomas Nakatsui is the award-winning Medical Director of Nakatsui DermaSurgery Centre. With cutting edge technology and expert care, Nakatsui DermaSurgery is
780-482-1414
Edmonton’s centre
nakatsuiderm.com
of excellence in cosmetic and medical procedures.
Suite 200, 9670 142 Street Crestwood Centre, Edmonton
COSMETIC DERMATOLOGY MEDICAL DERMATOLOGY HAIR TRANSPLANT SURGERY LASER REJUVENATION -4-
November 2023
Twyla Campbell Executive Editor
Twyla Campbell is a freelance writer, author, and the former food columnist for CBC radio (Edmonton). She is a seasoned traveller who seeks unique destinations both local and abroad. A proud supporter of Canadian wine and sustainable food producers, Twyla is a regularly sought food panelist and judge for culinary competitions in Canada.
Contributors Erin Walker is a professional food
Marcia J. Hamm is a lover of all things
photographer, recipe developer and
wine, but is especially passionate
food stylist, with clients in Edmonton
about Italy's native grape varieties.
and across North America. When she’s
She is a WSET diploma holder, an
not spending time behind the lens or
Italian Wine Scholar and one of only
in the kitchen, you can find her reading,
15 Italian Wine Experts In the world
gardening and enjoying everyday life
through the Vinitaly international
with her husband and her two busy boys.
Academy (VIA). Marcia also loves to sing, ride her bicycle, have dinner parties and relax on the patio.
Francesca Roznicki is a creative entrepreneur and busy mom of two
Steven Hope Is an award winning
boys. Always passionate about interior
creative, working in commercials and
design, she has worked exclusively within
film around the world. He often uses
the interior design and home building
minimalism in his work, allowing the
industry in Edmonton. When she isn't
concept to stand alone.
busy shuffling kids to sports practice and writing for her clients, she's scouring the local real estate listings and diving into decor magazines with a piping hot Americano. Phebe Melan, Originally from Malaysia,
Matthew Stepanic is a writer who
Phebe moved to the UK when she
lives and works on Treaty 6 territory
was 19 and Alberta in 2013. She is a
in Edmonton. He hosts VERS/E, a
wildly creative photographer who uses
monthly queer poetry open mic. He
her skill to uniquely capture images
is a co-author of Project Compass
and make people look and feel great.
(Monto Books, 2017) and the author of
Photography has allowed Phebe to
Relying on that Body (Glass Buffalo,
expand her outlook on life. Her mission
2018), a poetry chapbook about
is to make every moment count, and
RuPaul's Drag Race. His work has
she does so by capturing many of
appeared in Queer Little Nightmares
them frame by frame, in the process.
(Arsenal Pulp, 2022), CV2, an d others.
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November 2023
Highlights Note Celebrating November's winter wonders – Publisher's Note 8 Profile Joel Eden: Building brands and balancing life 10 Fashion Shades Of Grey's captivating holiday dresses 16
Auto Unveiling the Cadillac Lyriq 32 Cuisine Chapelle Kitchen Catering: Aya Ibrahim's culinary journey 38 Drinks Unique spirits from local ingredients 46
Arts & Culture Clayton Leung: A decade of passion and harmony with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra 56
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Publisher's Note With festivities on the horizon, our fashion editorial shines a spotlight on the glitzy and glamorous holiday dresses from Shades Of Grey, a local clothing boutique that continues to define style in Edmonton. For the auto enthusiasts, we introduce you to the highly anticipated Cadillac Lyriq. This cutting-edge electric vehicle offers advanced technology, a luxurious interior, and a commitment to sustainability. Our cuisine article takes us to the delectable offerings from Chappelle Kitchen Catering. Aya Ibrahim, the driving force behind this business, started her culinary journey by helping newcomers in Edmonton and has now carved a niche with her homemade, heartwarming dishes. In Arts & Culture, we meet the talented Clayton Leung, a violist celebrating a decade with the Edmonton
PHOTO BY TATYANA SEMENOVA
Symphony Orchestra. His passion for music and the joy of performing are truly inspiring.
November is here; ushering in cool air, cozy homes and a blanket of fresh snow. This November, we bring you the 42nd issue of Modern Luxuria, celebrating the
As we move into the holiday season, Modern Luxuria
crisp weather, the joy of the upcoming holidays, and
aims to be your guide, bringing you closer to the
the remarkable individuals who make our beloved
people, places, and stories that m ake Edmonton a
city shine.
unique and vibrant community.
In this issue, we sit down with the dynamic Joel Eden, a
Stay warm, stay cozy, and embrace the magic of
serial entrepreneur with a passion for building brands
winter!
and products. Joel talks about his projects, his love
– Elsa
for Edmonton, and his top luxuries in life.
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Built for Creativity How serial entrepreneur, Joel Eden, builds products, brands, and connections WORDS BY FRANCESCA ROZNICKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEVEN HOPE
Joel Eden is all about bringing people together to create brands and products. Whether he’s building a brand, a community, or a new product for his clients, Eden is always on the go, and enjoying the ride along the way. We caught up with Eden to learn more about what he does, how he maintains balance, and what he loves most about Edmonton.
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Tell us about your career history and how you
side project. One example was a concrete company
ended up where you are today.
here in Edmonton. We did a nice brand refresh and worked on re-logoing their products because
I was born and raised in Edmonton, and I started
then we could facilitate those changes through
with business school at Grant MacEwan College
Whiteridge. It's kind of still in the ecosystem, but
and the University of Alberta in The BCom program.
somewhat less of a focus.
Funny enough, I dropped out of that program to start a business with a friend. My lifelong journey
Kuma Outdoor Gear is definitely focused on a
of entrepreneurship started way back then. I
high-end, luxury outdoor product. I personally love
had a passion and an interest in fashion and in
that Whiteridge is a little bit more of an adaptable
manufacturing. So I scratched that itch by starting
creature, so we can basically produce anything
a couple of side businesses—initially, I tried men's
on any scale. We've had some clients want an
accessories and then dove into men's retail. I was
inexpensive giveaway that they can have in their
in men's retail for quite a while, and I think that
repertoire, right up to full-scale, high-end luxury
gravitated me towards the industry that I'm in, now.
products.
Can you expand on the work that you are doing
What do you think needs to go into a product to
now?
consider it luxurious?
I am the Sales and Account Manager for Western
First off, super high quality. You want the promise of
Canada for Whiteridge Inc., where we design
what the brand is telling you to actually work. And
and produce retail goods. I take care of the whole
with a luxury product comes a higher price tag, so
business of getting it into stores, as well as corporate
you do expect to get the quality product that you're
distributorship.
buying. And then in our world with Kuma outdoor gear, you want cool features. We have a heated chair
With Kuma Outdoor Gear, I am also a Sales and
that's been a hit! It’s extended camping season
Account Manager, where I handle sales and
from early spring when it's still chilly out, to perhaps
accounts and management on the corporate end.
now into fall, and maybe all year round. We were the
Anytime a business wants to collaborate, I deal with
first people to do that. Another cool feature was the
the different brands that want to be within the
app that goes along with it, so your chair can now
Kuma ecosystem.
be preheated. We got used to it in luxury vehicles and luxury floors; why not preheat a chair? Lastly,
I am also the owner and founder of Eden Agency
you need to maintain a solid brand. I think those
and MODE Ventures where we do brand inception
three go into a luxury product. Good quality product
and full brand creation. We build out and create
with cool, fun, innovative features, and then a strong
brand profiles, logo creation, font creation and all
brand that surrounds it all.
that goes along with it. This was always kind of a
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Your job has you travelling a lot, but your love of
How do you relax and let go in such a connected
Edmonton is clear. What is your favourite thing
career?
about our city? I actually genuinely enjoy the hustle and bustle. I do Edmonton is a community that feels very connected.
love seeing the front line, if you want to call it that—
I know a lot of people say what makes Edmonton
visiting clients; people who are actually using the
great is the people, and I think that definitely holds
products. Maybe that's a start—actually enjoying
true which makes going out, being social, being at
what it is that you do.
events, and getting connected quite easy. I think what a lot of people love about Edmonton is just
When I'm out there, it's not just a grind, or a trip that
how special the people are. Being born and raised
I dread. I'm getting cool feedback. I'm seeing fun
here, the community in Edmonton was something
clients. Of course, I also have to stay regular with my
that was instilled early on. I have always felt that this
hobbies. I go to the gym and that's usually where
community gave a lot. Now it's time to return that.
I can just shut off and blast some jams in my ear.
So, getting involved is, I think, vital.
Golf is also great. That season is coming to an end so, indoors, it'll be tennis. Now that hockey season is back on, I will also kick back to watch some sports.
I’m currently volunteering with Wings of Providence (with their wingman campaign). It's about raising funds for an organization that helps people
I do enjoy it all and hopefully it's not too cliché. I
fleeing domestic violence. When they launched
know the saying is “work life balance”, but I kind of
the wingman campaign, it was to get a little more
combat that concept a little bit—I say it's all one. I
involvement from men which I think is pretty vital,
enjoy it all and it all works together, right? I try to
because sometimes you don't know if it's “your
make everything something that is enjoyable. I
issue” or not. This campaign was really good at
guess it all folds into just living a life that you don't
raising the awareness that anybody can get involved
necessarily need a break from.
because it's everybody's issue. Edmonton is a great community of philanthropy and people doing cool charity work and events.
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Tell us what your top non-negotiable luxuries are that you need in your life. We don't make any clothing in my current industry, but clothing and fashion, coats, and shoes are a luxury of mine. I do love that side of things, so that's a huge one. I scratched that itch early on by getting into the industry a bit and I think it never went away. Something I always believe is, you can go just a little extra to have a polished look or to have fitted clothes. I believe in spending a bit more and then you have something for five or 10 years. With all my clothes, I have them forever until I can't fix them anymore. You buy something nice and it stays [nice]. I'd have to also say another luxury for me is creating space for health and nutrition. A non-negotiable for me would be forcing fitness time. I have a whole shelf of supplements and products to make sure that I'm treating my body like number one. I would consider that a luxury. You brag in your socials about being a fan of dad jokes. Give us your favourite one. There is just something about corny jokes. They're so bad, and the worse they are, the better they are. I like this one. I recently told it to someone and they got the biggest kick out of it, so I'll go for it. What do you call a French guy that's wearing sandals? Philippe leflop. WWW.WHITERIDGEINC.COM/HOME | WWW.KUMAOUTDOORGEAR.COM
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Sparkle and Shine Unveiling the glamour of holiday dresses PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEVEN HOPE AGENCY CHAN INTERNATIONAL MODELS BLYSS WARD, VALERIIA MIKNO, & RIESE BALISI
Embracing the allure of Shades of Grey boutique,
women's
fashion
takes
a
captivating turn this month. With the festive season drawing near, it's time to indulge in the enchantment of holiday dresses. Double the style, double the fun: view the collection at both Shades of Grey locations. WWW.SHOPSHADESOFGREY.COM
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Solene Dress
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Left: Dreamer Mini Dress Right: Bonita Midi Dress
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Left: Marianna Dress Right: Aviana Dress, Griffin Dog Tag Necklace
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Carmen Dress
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Lera Dress
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Left: Doris Dress Right: Anna Dress, Ola Earrings
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Left: Savine Pant, Jorja Top Centre: Dreamer Halter Top, Dreamer Maxi Skirt Right: Nera Dress
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Introducing Vandenbergs Jewellers A legacy of excellence in Edmonton PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED WWW.VANDENBERGSJEWELLERS.COM
For nearly five decades, Vandenbergs Jewellers has been a cherished family-owned and operated business, serving the community of Edmonton with utmost dedication. With a rich history spanning 47 years, they have become synonymous with trust, quality, and exceptional craftsmanship. Experience the legacy of excellence that Vandenbergs Jewellers has built over the years. From their family to yours, they invite you to discover the beauty, craftsmanship, and personalized service that sets them apart. Visit their showroom today and let them help you celebrate life's most precious moments with timeless elegance and pop sophistication.
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November 2023
Aquamarine and Diamond Ring Ladies 18Kt. white gold halo style Aquamarine and Diamond dinner ring. set with 1 @ Oval faceted Natural Beryl, Aquamarine, Fine medium dark blue in colour, 2.18 carats in weight, measuring 11mm x 6.2 mm x 4.9 mm and 0.43cts. of diamonds, SI1/F/G
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Blue Sapphire and Diamond Ring
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Ladies Sapphire and Diamond dinner ring. Oval halo design with diamond set shank, 18Kt. yellow gold shank and 19Kt. white gold halo. Set with 1 @ 2.65ct. Oval faceted natural Corundum, Natural Sapphire, fine Royal Ceylon blue in colour and 42 @ round brilliant cut Diamonds, F/VS2, 0.60cts TWT
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Citrine and Diamond Ring Ladies 18Kt. yellow gold halo style Citrine and Diamond dinner ring. straight shank, plain shiny finish, 2.94 grams in net weight and set with 1 @ 0.75ct. oval faceted Natural Quartz, Citrine and 20 @ round brilliant cut Diamonds, 0.12cts. in total weight VS/FG
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Emerald and Diamond Ring
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One Ladies 19Kt. white gold Emerald and Diamond ring. Tapered soft pipe shank, plain shiny finish, cast and hand finished and set with 1 @ 1.73ct. Natural Beryl, Emerald, fine intense green in colour, 2 @ trap step cut diamonds, VS clarity and F/G colour with a total weight of 0.44cts.and 16 @ small round brilliant cut diamonds with a total weight of 0.284cts. VS clarity and F/G colour
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Tourmaline and Diamond Ring Ladies 18Kt. white gold cast and hand finished Tourmaline and Diamond dinner ring, halo design with diamond set shoulders. The ring is set with 1 @ 2.00ct. Oval faceted Natural Tourmaline, medium intense Peach in colour and 0.62cts. of round brilliant cut diamonds. VS2 G/H
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Cadillac Lyriq: Electrifying Luxury Redefined Powerful efficiency that comes without compromise WORDS BY TOM SEDENS PHOTOGRAPHY CADILLAC CANADA
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November 2023 The world has long anticipated Cadillac’s first foray into the constantly evolving landscape of electric vehicles. Finally, the wait is over. The Lyriq has arrived, bringing together cuttingedge technology, a sumptuous interior, and a commitment to sustainability. At the heart of the Cadillac Lyriq is the Ultium platform, a revolutionary architecture for electric vehicles developed by General Motors, that allows the vehicle to provide impressive performance and a generous driving range. The Lyriq is equipped with a massive 102 kWh battery, ensuring that drivers can expect a substantial driving range. The rear-wheel drive Lyriq range exceeds 500 kilometres on a single charge, making it a competitor with the best in its class. The Lyriq's electric powertrain is not just focused on efficiency, it also delivers exhilarating performance. The rear-wheel drive Lyriq’s motor puts out 340 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque electric motor, whereas the optional all-wheel drive’s two motors combine for an impressive 500 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. Both provide an incredibly smooth, responsive driving experience, breathtaking acceleration, and an exceptionally quiet ride. Cadillac has engineered a near 50/50 weight distribution in the Lyriq. Combined with a lower centre of gravity, this makes for a sporty and spirited handling. Living with an electric vehicle should not just be fun, it should be easy too. The Lyriq supports DC fast charging, which can replenish over 240 kilometres of range in just 30 minutes, taking convenience and practicality to new levels.
The Cadillac Lyriq has a wholly modern design. Its sculpted exterior exudes timeless elegance, thanks to sleek lines and special details that can be found everywhere. Free from the need for a traditional grille, the Lyriq comes with a dramatically lit Black Crystal Shield. Stacked on either side of the Shield are LED projectors, creating a thin vertical lighting signature. The rear LED lighting elements provide an equally striking presence.
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Inside, the driver and passengers are enveloped in a world of luxury and technology. The exquisite materials chosen, including Nappa leather, wood, and knurled metal accents exude a sense of grandeur. A minimalist, decluttered design with a focus on user-friendliness with voice and gesture control options provide more convenience, allowing the driver to maintain focus on the road. The vehicle surrounds the driver in technology with a curved 33” high-definition LED display that encompasses the instrument cluster and infotainment system. It provides a seamless interface for vehicle controls and information needs, including the staggering 19-speaker AKG Studio audio system.
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Safety is a top priority in the Lyriq. It comes equipped with a full suite of advanced safety features. In addition, Cadillac's Super Cruise technology, a hands-free driving system, uses advanced sensors and cameras to allow for semi-autonomous driving on compatible highways, making long-distance travel safer and more convenient. The Cadillac Lyriq represents a bold entry into the electric vehicle market, blending technological achievement, opulence, comfort and innovation to deliver an outstanding driving experience. Its unique design, cutting-edge technology, luxurious interior, strong performance, and commitment to safety and environmental sustainability set the bar for Cadillac and show where the brand is headed. As we move toward an electrified world, the Cadillac Lyriq is a symbol of luxury and innovation, and a testament to Cadillac's commitment to its heritage of iconic luxury vehicles while embracing a greener future. WWW.WOLFECADILLACEDMONTON.COM
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Love at First Bite Delicious and meaningful food by Chappelle Kitchen Catering WORDS BY TWYLA CAMPBELL PHOTOGRAPHY ERIN WALKER
Stewed meats and colourful vegetables are heaped
In the spring of 2022, Ibrahim received a request
high in clay pots and platters. Fistfuls of mint stand
to cook 130 meals for the Mosquers Film Festival.
at the ready, waiting to infuse water kept hot in
The lengthy list of 5-star Google reviews that
shiny silver teapots; lemon wedges perch on piles of
accumulated thereafter caught the eye of a pilot
roasted chicken thighs, and baskets of bread take
ferrying VIP passengers through Alberta in the fall.
their place next to trays of flaky baklava.
The passengers tasked the pilot with sourcing fresh, made-from-scratch food that was interesting and different from what one usually eats in the air.
Digging into the foods that Aya Ibrahim of Chappelle Kitchen Catering prepares is a satisfying experience. Even the air is perfumed with lemon, garlic, mint,
The VIP passengers were The Eagles, and they
cinnamon, and other heady aromas indicative of
enjoyed Ibrahim’s food so much that first night,
Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine.
they requested her food again when they were passing through the airspace a few days later as they continued on with their Canadian concert tour.
As beautifully prepared as these dishes are, it may come as a surprise to learn that before Ibrahim and her family moved to Canada from Egypt in
“When I first got the phone call, I thought it was a
2013, this diminutive dynamo tutored people in
joke,” Ibrahim says of the day the pilot phoned. “I
medical terminology. After settling in Edmonton,
thought she meant to call someone else.”
and on days when she wasn’t working in medical administration, Ibrahim filled her spare time
Ibrahim cooked up a buffet of barbecued chicken
helping other new immigrants source clothing and
thighs,
household items. She fed them, too, along with
hummus, fresh pita, her made-from-scratch hot
many hungry and unhoused people in the inner
sauce, and baklava.
salads,
vegetables,
fish
and
shrimp,
city. The decision to establish a catering business came the day Ibrahim was denied the opportunity
What sets this food apart from many other catering
to present food in a shelter because she didn’t have
companies, is that everything is homemade—from
a food handling permit. That problem didn’t stop
the kebabs to the silky smooth hummus and all
her; she built a commercial kitchen, got the permit,
items in between.
and started to feed the masses.
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Unlike typical falafel (made with chickpeas), Ibrahim
that positive vibes add positive energy to the
makes hers the Egyptian way, with dried fava beans
final results of the food. It's all about creating that
that she soaks, purees and then seasons. According
harmonious atmosphere and infusing the dishes
to Ibrahim, fava beans don’t soak up the oil as much
with love and positivity.”
as chickpeas do. The resulting falafel have a crunchy exterior and a light, fluffy interior. At first bite, the
Ibrahim often reflects on what has transpired since
difference is notable and delicious.
receiving her first paid catering job to now with a stream of offers each week. Her thoughts go to the
For those unfamiliar with Egyptian food, Ibrahim
importance of sharing her culture with others as
says it is relatively mild but still full-flavoured. She
well as learning about other people’s traditions and
doesn’t
customs.
use
pre-mixed
seasonings,
preferring
instead to take fresh spices which she blends into her own mixes—one for lamb, one for fish, one for
“Catering provides an opportunity to expand my
chicken; the seasoning for her rice dish is made of
knowledge and appreciation for the rich tapestry of
20 spices.
cultures that make up Canada, and it allows me to be a bridge between different cultural backgrounds.
But what one notices even more than the deep
This understanding and cross-cultural exchange are
flavours and beautiful presentation, is the genuine
invaluable in creating a harmonious and inclusive
love and care that goes into each dish. When
society.”
Ibrahim cooks, she cooks from the heart. Food is (and has always been) the common thread “Before I cook, I always make sure that I prepare
that connects us all, regardless of who we are.
myself to be in a good mood, ready to cook with mazaj,” she says, explaining that the Arabic word refers to the overall emotional state or disposition of
WWW. CHAPPELLEKITCHEN.COM
an individual at a specific moment. “I firmly believe
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PHOTOGRAPHY COOPER & O'HARA
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November 2023
From Garden to Glass Crafting homemade liqueurs and spirits WORDS BY MARCIA J. HAMM PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
Alberta is known for its abundance of natural resources, quality raised livestock, and acres of verdant farmland that yield millions of metric tonnes of cereal grains and legumes. The number of distilleries and breweries that have opened over a relatively short time period, is proof that artisans in this province can make world-class products from what grows in our provincialwide backyard.
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Field Notes, a distillery that launched in 2021, is a partnership between Edmonton-based entrepreneur Faaiza Ramji and Carstairs, Alberta’s farmer, Lindsey Good. Unbeknownst to many, one of Canada’s most significant global exports is field peas, with most of the tonnage coming from the prairie provinces. Ramji knew that this Alberta crop could be used to make something special that everyone could enjoy. Amaro, meaning bitter, is an herbaceous Italian liqueur consumed after a meal that helps to aid in digestion. Field Notes created their version of the famous liqueur from distilled field peas and 15 different botanicals, describing it as a “garden amaro” with the name, Don’t Call Me Sweet Pea. Not as viscous as the Italian version, Field Notes’ amaro is delicious on its own with an orange slice, on the rocks, or neat. For a change-up on a Negroni, use this amaro in place of the vermouth for a taste of Alberta in your glass. WWW.FIELDNOTESSPIRITS.COM
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November 2023
PHOTOGRAPHY COOPER & O'HARA
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PHOTOGRAPHY PABLO HERRERA-CRUZ
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November 2023
Above Average Drinks was founded in 2020 in Edmonton, by two young entrepreneurs who desired to craft a simple, yet high-quality liqueur made from an ingredient grown in Alberta; something one may not expect: coriander seed. The resulting liqueur (with wheat as the base distillate), is sweet and creamy with cracker and vanilla notes from the wheat, and underlying citrus and earth notes with hints of spice from the coriander. Try it first neat or on ice, but it can also be used in place of Triple Sec or Cointreau in any favourite classic cocktail recipe that uses orange liqueur. WWW.ABOVEAVERAGEDRINKS.COM
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Absinthe is an anise-flavoured spirit that is derived from several plants, including wormwood, green anise, and fennel. Sometimes called “the green fairy” due to its natural green colour, it can also be produced colourless. Strathcona Spirits, located just off Whyte Avenue, is Edmonton’s oldest distillery, and the smallest in North America. They are continually expanding their line of fine spirits and use only locally farmed grains and foraged botanicals. Their newest release, Absinthe Blanc, is a hearty and traditional spirit which contains locally harvested wormwood, anise, and sweet fennel. And yes, it does have thujone, the psychoactive hallucinogen that gives the spirit a bad reputation, but the amount is well within the allowable provincial regulations. Flavour-wise, this is licorice allsorts in a glass with great complexity— something not typically associated with absinthe. It is perfect on ice as the flavours will change as the ice melts. Absinthe Blanc has a whopping 55 per cent alcohol by volume, so enjoy it in moderation. WWW.STRATHCONASPIRITS.CA
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November 2023
PHOTOGRAPHY CHELSEY BELEC
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Advertising Feature
Inspiration Lives Here. Lease Today.
Photo credit: Onetwosix Design
For: Modern Luxuria Due: Oct 27, 2023 17.25” x 11.25” with bleed included in dimensions, as per supplied
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For production questions:, please contact: Kelli Brunton
Advertising Feature
The Pendennis Building is a revolutionary space for a business, organization, or group looking to enhance the vitality and services available in downtown Edmonton. Create the
For a private tour and leasing information contact:
space you have envisioned for your business in the heart of
Lorraine Bodnarek
the city.
CEO, Pendennis Development Ltd.
A mix of history, old character brick and modern materials are
hello@pendennisbuilding.com
brought together in this remarkable heritage building. Exclusive
780.907.1262
spaces to lease are available and ideal for techcompanies, law firms, design and architecture firms, retail and boutiques. An opportunity for a restaurant and/or brewery is also available.
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Strike a Chord Violist Clayton Leung builds community connections over his decade with the ESO WORDS BY MATTHEW STEPANIC PHOTOGRAPHY STEVEN HOPE
Based only on appearance, you wouldn’t expect the youthful Clayton Leung to be celebrating his 10th anniversary playing viola with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra (ESO). Also passionate about team sports, Leung once baffled his soccer team when he made a comment about how tough it is to keep up with all of these 25-year-olds. “They kept guessing my age,” he explains, “and I was like, ‘I appreciate this, but I could be your dad.’” Leung is 40, and when you listen to him discuss his passion for music, you realize there’s plenty of experience and wisdom beneath the boyish handsomeness.
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Leung got his start performing music at the age of three, thanks to his encouraging mother. A music teacher herself, she guided Leung and his two younger brothers to perform at seniors’ homes and weddings. (Equally supportive, Leung’s dad helped by chauffeuring the family band and carrying the instruments.) He began his musical journey with the violin, but needed a change as a young adult so picked up the viola. “If you’re a decent violinist, you’ll be an even better violist,” Leung jokes; but then sincerely adds, “In a string quartet, I was playing violin and remember thinking, ‘Oh I’d love to try that [the viola’s] part. I’d love to be that voice: that low, underlying rich texture.’ You’re always playing that beautiful centre harmony. I wanted more of that.” He went to the University of Victoria to “feel [his] way through music,” where he met and worked with many musicians, perhaps the most influential being the Lafayette String Quartet—an all-women ensemble that has been performing together for over three decades. “They inspired me,” he says. “I could see myself making a career of music based on how they approached it.” He still keeps in touch with the quartet and recently joined them for an Alberta tour.
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www.modernluxuria.com
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November 2023
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www.modernluxuria.com
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November 2023
He’s not looking for attention in his career, but rather, connection with his fellow performers and audience. (He’s among the very small minority that doesn’t maintain any public social media.) Although one of his most memorable experiences with the ESO is a solo performance of Mozart’s ‘Sinfonia Concertante,’ he prefers the comradery of performing with the rest of the orchestra. The ESO’s exceptional teamwork may be why he doesn’t get nervous before performances and thrives in that rare, magical space where you’re neither under- nor over-rehearsed. “Sometimes you definitely feel like things will be more spontaneous,” Leung says. “If dress rehearsal doesn’t go great, that can make for a really exciting concert because we’re all at the edge of our seats.” Outside of his work with the ESO, Leung teaches and mentors people of all ages in the violin and viola. He regularly keeps in touch with former students—and their moms, who are usually the ones to report that their child is pursuing music and owe that decision to Leung. “I like to see people progress in their love for music,” he says. “I hope to bring some joy to their daily lives.”
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www.modernluxuria.com
Pendant (457BDD) www.parklighting.ca
Stanford Square Mirror www.finessehomeliving.com
Selina Sofa www.leons.ca
Ginkgo Leaf Object www.finessehomeliving.com
Beauclair Cocktail Table www.cottswood.com
Winter Elegance Chic and cozy treasures for your winter sanctuary PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
Feizy Rugs Braeside Area Rug www.mcelherans.com
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November 2023
Channel Accent Table www.finessehomeliving.com
McCreary Modern 31 Swivel Chair www.cottswood.com
Evelyn Chair www.finessehomeliving.com
Fleur in Bloom Wall Decor Art www.mcelherans.com
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www.modernluxuria.com Left Art Deep Forest Reflection www.finessehomeliving.com
Clusters Collection 8 Light Chandelier www.parklighting.ca
Theo Swivel Club Chair www.cosafina.ca
Logan Rug www.simoneandivy.ca Live Edge Tray www.parklighting.ca Maison Levy Pillow www.cosafina.ca
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Uttermost Living Room Elenio Glass Console Table 24421 www.finessehomeliving.com
Dutchess Sofa www.parkfurnishings.ca
Wildwood 61166 Table Lamp www.mcelherans.com
Mac Coffee Table www.simoneandivy.ca
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780 428 6565
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