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Editor's Note
These last warm days of late have been wonderful but those chilly nights are surefire signs of what’s to come, and we know it. The crops are off the field, fruits
and vegetables have been preserved, the to-do list for Thanksgiving dinner has been started, and yards are being prepared for the end of the month when little ghosts and goblins will knock on doors, yelling “Trick or treat!” on Hallowe’en night. There is much to do at this time of year.
While I've avoided hopping on the PSL train and abstain from anything pumpkin spiced in general (including pies), I do appreciate a good pumpkin display in stores and markets. Pumpkins signal the end of harvest, the height of fall, and a time to express gratitude for what one has, even if it doesn't seem like much in comparison to others. Gratitude is gratitude, big or small, and expressing it on a regular basis—and not just around the Thanksgiving holiday—goes a long way in helping to develop a healthy mindset.
I'm thankful to be a part of this magazine and to work with people of integrity. I'm proud of the creativity I see from the photographers and writers who make these issues so beautiful. And I’m thankful for each one of you who takes the time to read and witness what we’ve put together. Thank you for your feedback and your support and your words of encouragement. I am grateful for it all.
– Twyla
Dr. Thomas Nakatsui is the award-winning Medical Director of Nakatsui DermaSurgery Centre. With cutting edge technology and expert care, Nakatsui DermaSurgery is Edmonton’s centre of excellence in cosmetic and medical procedures.
780-482-1414 nakatsuiderm com Suite 200, 9670 142 Street Crestwood Centre, Edmonton
Photography by Romy Young
Contributors
Erin Walker is a professional food photographer, recipe developer and food stylist, with clients in Edmonton and across North America. When she’s not spending time behind the lens or in the kitchen, you can find her reading, gardening and enjoying everyday life with her husband and her two busy boys.
Francesca Roznicki is a creative entrepreneur and busy mom of two boys. Always passionate about interior design, she has worked exclusively within the interior design and home building industry in Edmonton. When she isn't 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.
Marcia J. Hamm is a lover of all things wine, but is especially passionate about Italy's native grape varieties. She is a WSET diploma holder, an Italian Wine Scholar and one of only 15 Italian Wine Experts In the world through the Vinitaly international Academy (VIA). Marcia also loves to sing, ride her bicycle, have dinner parties and relax on the patio.
Tom Sedens is a husband, father of 3, lover of pie and a world traveler that has explored over 50 countries. He is an accredited member of AJAC (Automobile Journalists Association of Canada) who loves driving anything, anytime, anywhere.
Jay Walker, originally from Halifax, has lived in Alberta for 15 years. He started shooting street photography on his way to a hiking and climbing destination and instantly fell in love with the process. Jay’s portfolio reflects his passion for interacting with people and is a compilation of street, nature and sporting photography from around the world.
Brandy Belitsky is a mom, wife, graphic designer, photographer, writer, and singer. Her passion for art and design has kept her busy in both the working world and in play. If she's not working, she's probably spending time with her family, creating something, singing, or cooking something up in the kitchen.
I BELONG IN EVERY SPACE WHERE INNOVATION HAPPENS.
The 1000 Women4STEM Bursary is working hard to shatter barriers in STEM careers, giving women the tools to innovate and inspire.
JOIN THE MOVEMENT.
Publisher's Note
Practicing gratitude in October 10
Profile
Ray Yue: innovating Alberta's mental health landscape 12
Fashion
Luxury fall essentials from Blogger Armoire 20
Auto
Acura MDX Type S: Where performance and comfort collide 34
Cuisine
Savouring culture and flavours at Monsoon Bistro & Bar 40
Arts & Culture
Bending glass and boundaries: James Lavoie 56
Travel
Exploring Minneapolis 62
Publisher's Note
As we step into October and welcome the crisp, refreshing change of season, it’s a wonderful time to reflect on what we’ve achieved together, and to express our heartfelt gratitude.
As an entrepreneur, you often feel like you’re navigating uncharted waters. You work late into the night making countless decisions with a blend of both excitement and uncertainty. When Modern Luxuria was just an idea, I dreamed of creating something that would not only inspire. but also connect our community. Every step we’ve taken since then has been a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved, from our talented team to our loyal readers and advertisers.
This month, as we celebrate the harvest and express gratitude for what we’ve received, it’s important to acknowledge the challenges that many local businesses are facing. The journey of entrepreneurship can be tough, and we’ve seen some of our neighbours struggle through these uncertain times. But it’s precisely during these moments that our support for one another remains strong. Whether it’s by shopping locally, sharing a kind word, or simply spreading the word about a great local business, every small gesture contributes to our collective strength and growth.
At Modern Luxuria, we are committed to supporting our local businesses. We believe in their potential and the role they play in enriching our community. Each feature we share and each advertisement we publish is part of our effort to highlight the incredible talent and innovation right here in our city. We want to see our local entrepreneurs thrive and continue to bring their unique offerings to our vibrant community.
To our readers, thank you for your engagement and for spreading our publication far and wide through your channels. And to our fellow entrepreneurs, thank you for supporting us with your encouragement and advertisements. You are an integral and cherished part of our journey. Each one of you makes a difference, and for that, we are truly grateful.
Here’s to celebrating the strength of our community and to the continued growth and success of all our local businesses. – Elsa
PHOTO BY TATIYANA SEMENOVA
Innovating Mental Wellness in Alberta
WORDS BY FRANCESCA ROZNICKI PHOTOGRAPHY BY FONTAINE LEWIS
Ray Yue is a dynamic force in the realm of mental health care in Alberta, merging his background as a pharmacist with his entrepreneurial spirit to address critical gaps in the system. With a deep-seated passion for both physical and mental wellness, Yue has dedicated his career to innovating and implementing holistic health solutions that serve diverse communities across the province. We had a chance to learn more about these initiatives and what drives Yue to passionately pursue this field.
Can you tell us a bit about your background and what inspired you to focus on mental health in Alberta?
I've always had a deep connection with health care, starting with my background as a pharmacist. As a serial entrepreneur focused on finding ways to innovate and bring to life better solutions to our communities, I have seen many areas that can be disrupted with newer ways of thinking. My journey evolved into a passion for not just physical wellness but mental health, which is just as critical but often overlooked. Growing up in Alberta, I witnessed firsthand the gaps in mental health services, especially in underserved communities and
within Indigenous populations. This pushed me to co-found CARE Group and Evolve Strength, which are both centred on holistic health—combining physical strength with mental resilience. It’s that fusion of physical and mental wellness that inspires me every day, and Alberta, with its diverse landscape and people, has always been a key focus for me to drive change.
What are some of the most significant mental health challenges currently facing Alberta residents?
Alberta faces a number of mental health challenges, but the biggest ones stem from access and stigma. Many residents, especially in rural and remote areas, simply don’t have access to the right services when they need them most. Another issue is the stigma surrounding mental health; people are often afraid to speak up or seek help, believing it’s a sign of weakness. Economic pressures, the pandemic, and the mental strain that comes within many of our key industries also contribute to high levels of anxiety, depression, and addiction issues. These are things we need to tackle head-on.
Can you share some of the initiatives or programs you’re involved in to improve mental health services in Alberta?
At CARE Group, we’ve launched several initiatives aimed at addressing those challenges. One of the key programs is our digital mental health hub, which gives people 24/7 access to mental health tools, resources, and virtual consultations, whether they’re in Edmonton or a remote part of the province. We’ve also focused on bringing culturally relevant mental health programs to Indigenous communities, working closely with elders and leaders to design solutions that resonate with their needs. On the physical health side, at Evolve Strength, we combine mental and physical fitness programs—because we believe true health is holistic. Strengthening your body goes hand in hand with strengthening your mind.
What are some common misconceptions about mental health that you encounter and how do you address them?
One common misconception is that mental health only matters when you’re in crisis. The reality is that mental health is something we should be taking care of daily, just like physical fitness. Another misconception is that therapy or mental health support is only for severe cases. We work hard to show people that everyone can benefit from talking to someone or using mental health tools—whether you’re feeling a bit off, or dealing with something more serious. By making mental health more accessible and part of everyday life, we hope to eliminate these misconceptions.
Can you speak more on how AI factors into mental health care?
AI plays a crucial role in making mental health care more personalized and accessible. At CARE Group, we use AI to provide tailored support based on individual needs. Whether it's through mood tracking, personalized resources, or even predicting potential mental health challenges
before they escalate, AI allows us to offer proactive, rather than reactive, care. By analyzing data in real time, we can create customized care pathways for people, ensuring they get the right help at the right time. This kind of technology can reduce wait times and make mental health care scalable across the province.
In your opinion, what are the key areas where Alberta’s mental health services need improvement?
The biggest areas for improvement are accessibility and integration. We need to make mental health services easier to access, especially in rural and remote areas. Technology like virtual mental health hubs can help bridge that gap. Integration is another key area—we need to stop thinking of mental and physical health as separate entities. Programs that combine the two, like what we’re doing at Evolve Strength, should be the standard. Finally, more investment is needed in preventive care—supporting people before they hit a crisis point will not only improve lives but also reduce strain on the healthcare system.
How do you see the future of mental health care evolving in Alberta over the next five to ten years?
I think the future of mental health care in Alberta will be much more tech-driven, with AI and virtual care playing a major role. We’ll see mental health tools integrated into everyday life—whether it’s through wearables that track your mood, or apps that offer instant support. I also believe mental health will be treated more holistically, as we continue to break down the barriers between physical and mental wellness. And finally, we’ll see more culturally specific mental health programs that speak to the unique needs of Indigenous and other underrepresented communities. Overall, mental health will become more personalized and accessible.
What are three important “luxuries” you must have in order to live a good life?
For me, luxury is all about balance. First, well-being—both physical and mental—is the ultimate luxury. It’s something I prioritize through regular fitness and mindfulness practices. Second, connection—whether it’s with my family, my team, or the community—is incredibly important. Finally, purpose—I believe living a life that’s aligned with your passion and values is a luxury that not everyone gets to experience. I’m grateful that I’ve been able to create businesses that allow me to contribute meaningfully to the world.
WWW.THECAREGROUP.CA
Blogger Armoire's Luxe Wardrobe
Autumn essentials for 2024
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAY WALKER
FASHION BY BLOGGER ARMOIRE
MODELLING AGENCY CHAN INTERNATIONAL
MODEL JAMIELINN MARVELOUS
HAIR & MAKE UP ESPERANZA MONZINI SHEN
Blogger Armoire presents a stunning array of fall fashion with standout pieces from Gucci, Valentino, Chanel and Burberry. This season, 2024 trends take centre stage with rich hues, tailored silhouettes, and a mix of classic and contemporary styles. Explore how these luxury brands are shaping fall wardrobe essentials with a perfect blend of elegance and statement-making designs.
WWW.BLOGGERARMOIRE.COM
Dries Van Noten Snake Print Jacket
Brunello Cucinelli Draped Mockneck
Brunello Cucinelli Metallic Silk Cargo Pant
Maison Margiela Architectural Heeled Boots
Valentino Striped Leather Flap Bag
Burberry Pink Laminated Lace Runway Trench
Gucci Poppy Silk Blouse
Acne Accordion Pleated Skirt
Valentino Bubblegum Patent Rockstud Heels
Balenciaga x Gucci Hacker Project Handbag
Chanel Fantasy Tweed Jacket
Louis Feraud Vintage Silk Blouse
Chanel Camellia Embossed Denim
Chanel Chain Trimmed Tweed Heels
Chanel Two-Tone Gabrielle Handbag
www.harryrosen.com
Fall’s Finest: Bold Looks for the Season
Sleek silhouettes, rich textures and timeless layers
PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
Designers are turning to rich, textured fabrics like cashmere, velvet and silk for a tactile allure that elevates even the simplest pieces. Oversized coats, tailored suiting and flowing dresses bring the drama while intricate details like hand-stitched embroidery, polished hardware and exotic leathers speak of understated elegance. Monochromatic palettes in deep jewel tones and soft neutrals dominate, bringing a timeless sophistication to both men's and women's wardrobes. This fall, luxury fashion is all about effortless extravagance where comfort meets couture in the most captivating way.
Boss Malbano Goat Leather Jacket
Boss
Bellroy
Polo Ralph Lauren Mens Train 89 Leather Sneakers
Acura MDX Type S
Sleek, powerful sophistication
WORDS BY TOM SEDENS PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
When it comes to Acura’s Type S branding, you know you are going to be driving something special. Acura only bestows the Type S badge to its most powerful and capable vehicles. And so it is for the MDX Type S, where pure precision and raw power come together in Acura’s flagship SUV.
The heart of the MDX Type S is a 3.0L turbocharged V6 putting out 355-horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque that is mated to a super-fast, 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, and Acura’s racetrack-bred Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). But it is not just about power and straight-line performance. Endowed with an adaptive air suspension and torque-vectoring technology for enhanced handling and control, and a superb Brembo braking system, the Type S is a true high-performance vehicle.
That being said, the MDX Type S can just as easily become a comfortable cruiser. The Integrated Dynamics System allows the driver to choose between numerous drive modes, including Normal, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Snow, and a fully customizable Individual setting. There’s even a Lift mode if more ground clearance is needed.
The exterior, while familiar with its sleek, sophisticated styling, pronounced beltline, and the signature Jewel Eye LED headlights, gets the Type S treatment too. You immediately notice the black trim accents and the stunning Berlina 21-inch rims, exclusive to the Type S, wrapped in massive 275-sized performance tires. Around back, the rear diffuser and quad exhaust tips complete the look.
Inside, the precision-crafted and technologically advanced cabin is at once sporty and luxurious. The beautiful, quilted leather seats with Ultrasuede inserts to keep the driver and passengers in place during spirited driving are heated, ventilated and have massaging functions and special Type S embossing.
Behind the bespoke Type S flat-bottomed heated steering wheel is a 12.3-inch Precision Cockpit digital dash that allows the driver to display the exact information they desire. Centred in the dash is a large touchscreen that controls the MDX’s functions, including the 31-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.
Second and third-row passengers are treated to equally luxurious and comfortable surroundings. Getting into the third row is a snap thanks to the One-Touch Smart Slide access that moves the second row seating out of the way. Overhead is a huge panoramic sunroof providing an expansive view that makes every seat in the vehicle bright and airy.
An SUV needs to provide utility (it’s right in the name), and the MDX delivers with a power liftgate that reveals a substantial cargo space with intelligently designed versatility.
When it comes to keeping everyone inside the vehicle safe, the driver and passengers can count on AcuraWatch, the full suite of Acura’s industry-leading active driver assistance technology including a heads-up display, all manner of collision mitigation systems and a full surround-view camera system.
The MDX Type S combines the best of both the luxurious and the sporting worlds in a perfectly balanced, performance SUV.
WORDS BY TWYLA CAMPBELL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIN WALKER
With every dish I order, every cocktail I try and every interaction I have with the staff at Monsoon Bistro & Bar, I learn more about the food, the culture and the connection we have, as humans, to each other. Each of my visits has felt like an adventure, and when it comes to food experiences, I appreciate that.
The food served at this southside gem is Northern Indian and reflects the upbringing of its owner, Goldie Hazrah, who hails from a small village in Punjab. The chefs she employs craft the dishes from recipes handed down through the generations.
“Food is how we talk to people,” explains Hazrah. “There is passion and honour in the dishes. Heat and spices come together to make something beautiful. We share knowledge and experience with customers. It’s a lot of fun.”
I could rattle off a long list of things I love about Indian food, but what many might not know is how accommodating it is for people with dietary restrictions. There are as many dishes for vegetarians, vegans and people with lactose and gluten intolerance as there are for omnivores that can stomach everything from nuts to shellfish and every protein in between.
For starters, you’ll want to try the Delhi wali aloo tikki (crispy potato cakes filled with chickpeas), the crunchy Brussels sprouts, or anything with paneer, a non-melting soft cheese that works in a variety of preparations, from curries to kababs. The glass of Christian Nett riesling that Hazrah suggests to pair with the marinated paneer kababs is a perfect choice—and on that topic, the wine list at Monsoon’s is also something to appreciate.
“It can be a challenge to pair wine with spicy food,” Hazrah says, explaining that many wines will elevate the spiciness, so knowing which wines work and which ones don’t is important. The wine selection at Monsoon is refreshingly thoughtful with nearly four dozen intentionally selected wines from around the world.
The cocktail list is interesting, as well. Many of the drinks are named after Bollywood films, and while I’ve never watched Sharabi, Tamasha or Gabbar is Back, I can tell you firsthand that their liquid namesakes are fantastic. If a classic Old Fashioned is more your style, you can have yours made with rum, bourbon or whisky. Along with visual drama, an applied smoke technique adds both flavourful and aromatic elements to the drink.
Heady smells and big flavours are all part of the package here. Spice mixes are crafted in-house using whole, fresh spices that are blended and toasted before being incorporated into other ingredients. Expect the deliciousness of cardamom, fenugreek and cumin to be ever-present.
For all the dishes I’ve enjoyed at Monsoon, I struggle to find a favourite. Currently, I’m torn between the lal maas (lamb cooked in a rich gravy) and the jumbo prawns in creamy cardamom-infused “Malai” sauce. The street-style chicken in fresh fenugreek also rivals for first spot, but so does the Punjabi-style goat curry called bakra. And yes, there is butter chicken on offer, this one from the chef’s family recipe which requires the meat to be first marinated, and then cooked in the tandoor before being placed on top of the sauce, making it a “smoked” butter chicken. You’re going to need extra naan with this one.
Along with a very accommodating menu, the restaurant is also accommodating from a space perspective. The venue is divided into three sections: a small private section suitable for intimate dinners, a large dining room that is open and bright, and an elegant but cozy lounge that’s perfect for solo dining, date night, or a casual get-together with friends.
A seat at the bar allows you to grill the resident mixologist with questions about movie names, sugarcane and the spectacular collection of whisky that takes up an entire wall.
If you’re fortunate to dine on a day when Goldie Hazrah is in the room, lucky you. Her charm and grace are a pleasure to witness. That being said, the staff are a direct reflection of their employer, which speaks volumes. Perhaps what I appreciate most of all is their patience in answering my unending barrage of questions. I hope that continues to be the case because I still have about another 38 dishes to try, and I haven’t even started on the wall of whisky, yet.
Find Monsoon at 4485 Gateway Blvd., Edmonton, AB
From Crush to Soft Crush World class non-alcoholic options
WORDS BY MARCIA J. HAMM PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
A thirst for a healthier lifestyle and sober state of mind are the reasons behind the meteoric rise of no-alcohol and low-alcohol products within the drinks industry. Millennials lead the way in the demand for products in this ever-expanding category, and with restaurants offering more mocktails and store shelves vastly increasing their shelf space for zero-proof products, it is safe to say this category is not going to shrink anytime soon.
Mark Kuspira, who founded Crush Imports in 2003, was an early adopter of non-alcoholic products. His workdays started with time spent online poring over market trends and industry news. During the COVID-19 pandemic, having (more) time to spend researching, he noticed that non-alcohol drinks-related articles kept popping up in his feed. “I had a couple of people reach out to me about no- and low-alcohol drinks and decided I needed to taste the stuff.”
Kuspira admits to questioning how these products would be perceived in the market and wondered how he could create the dotted line between his current portfolio and the non-alcohol offerings. After speaking to his team, and, together, tasting over 400 products, he launched Soft Crush with 11 items on the list. Today there are 35 no- and low-alcohol products in the portfolio, with a breakdown of 85 per cent wine, 20 per cent spirits and 5 per cent RTD (ready-to-drink). Where one could only buy two or three products without alcohol, there’s now something for everyone’s tastes. “The most successful product by far has been in the sparkling wine category,” Kuspira says. “The bubble is the placebo for the missing alcohol.”
The parameters on what products Kuspira chooses are strict. In selecting wines, for example, the grapes need to come from vitis vinifera vines, from a place of provenance that grows grapes, and with no flavour manipulations and/or editions—wine in its purest sense, yet one that has gone through a dealcoholization process, either by vacuum distillation or centrifuge, two processes that continue to improve with the evolution in modern technology. “There are some historical producers trying to get into the game of non-alc, because they know the space needs to be there,” Kuspira says.
To make their mark with no/low products, Soft Crush entered the Vancouver Wine Festival in 2022 where their presence and the offerings at the table were generally dismissed and labelled with skepticism. A year later, things had completely changed along with people’s attitudes. “Whether the category is embraced or whether they know the wine sales have declined for whatever reasons, they know they need to be inclusive in their wine offerings,” Kuspira says.
Along with less tolerance of (and stricter laws on) drinking and driving, no/low drinks appeal to so many because the trend is an all-inclusive one. “There’s always going to be someone who is not drinking for whatever reason,” Kuspira says. “And those reasons are diverse. It’s not just about recovery. It’s about faith, lifestyle and moderation.”
When it comes to alcohol free products, less is definitely more as it turns out, and for people like Mark Kuspira, that’s a very good thing, indeed.
WWW.SOFTCRUSH.CA
Glass In Motion
James Lavoie’s artistic evolution
WORDS BY BRANDY BELITSKY PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
James Lavoie’s basement studio is like a portal into his mind, one where glass transforms from rigid and cool to something that fuses and bends into elegant, geometric forms.
Lavoie’s love for clean lines and minimalist shapes permeates his work, and while he doesn’t dabble in the overly complex, his pieces emanate a quiet sophistication that comes from years of experience.
His journey into glassmaking wasn’t a straight line, but rather a winding path through different mediums. “I wasn’t really good at drawing,” Lavoie admits, “but I always loved art class.” Pottery first captured his attention while living in Red Deer, but a chance encounter with a friend’s stained glass tools in the 1970s flipped a switch. “I picked them up and I was hooked,” he says. Lavoie dove into stained glass, a medium that gave him his foundational understanding of design, proportion and working with light. “It’s kind of a cliché, but stained glass really is like painting with light.”
Eventually, stained glass led him to kiln-formed glass, where he’s now made his mark. Kiln glass, or “warm glass,” allowed him to merge the precision he learned from stained glass with a more spontaneous approach. Lavoie’s pieces are known for their balance of order and whimsy—a product of his love for geometric shapes and his deep respect for the material’s limitations. “I’ve always had this innate desire to keep things simple,” he explains. “There’s a real elegance in simplicity.”
His recent work features the same attention to clean lines, but he’s been playing more with texture and depth. He speaks excitedly about one of his favourite recent pieces, a boat-shaped design made from strips of blue-green and almond-coloured glass. The two colours reacted during firing, creating a rusty halo effect between them. It’s a small detail, but it’s exactly these kinds of surprises that fuel his creative process. “I love when things like that happen,” he says. “It’s what keeps me experimenting.”
Despite his laid-back demeanour, Lavoie is meticulous, particularly when it comes to the technical challenges of glassworking. From thermal shock to cold-working (the post-firing process of shaping and smoothing), glass demands precision and patience. “You’ve got to have the right tools,” he says, explaining how glass, especially when thick, can become difficult to cut. And while these technicalities might intimidate some, Lavoie embraces them as part of the craft.
One thing he doesn’t get caught up in is holding onto his pieces. While many artists struggle with parting with their work, Lavoie takes a more pragmatic approach. “I’d rather share it,” he says. “I can always make another one.” It’s a sentiment that reflects his openness to both his craft and the world around him.
WWW.ALBERTACRAFT.AB.CA/LAVOIE
Pack Your Bags!
WORDS BY TWYLA CAMPBELL
PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIED
BY
PHOTO
LANE PELOVSKY
The changing colours of foliage throughout Minnesota this time of year offer up a spectacular palette of comforting hues. Leaf chasers looking for prime photo ops will be checking the state’s Fall Color Finder for daily updates through September and October. Known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, this Upper Midwestern state overflows with scenic vistas, so if that’s your travel vibe, you better get packing.
The Mississippi River separates the two most populous cities, Minneapolis and Saint Paul. If you like bridges, the Twin Cities, as they’re collectively known, have over 20 for your viewing, strolling and photographing pleasure. And because all twins appreciate some form of autonomy, these pages will focus on Minneapolis, a city I haven’t stopped thinking about since my first visit. With direct flights now available from my hometown of Edmonton, Alberta, and at just over 2.5 hours in the air, a return trip (this time to explore the state capital, Saint Paul) is in the works.
PHOTO BY: DISCOVER NARAMATA
PHOTO BY LANE PELOVSKY
PHOTO BY LANE PELOVSKY
PHOTO BY HEIDI EHALT
PHOTO BY MEET MINNEAPOLIS
The culinary scene in both cities is off the charts. In Minneapolis, several award-winning chefs have restaurants, some of which include Ann Kim of Young Joni and Pizzeria Lola; Gavin Kaysen of Mara, and Spoon and Stable; Sean Sherman of Owamni; Christina Nguyen of Hola Arepa and Hai Hai; and Yia Vang, of Vinai and Union Hmong Kitchen. But, for as many newly minted and highly lauded chefs that open new restaurants every year, there is an old guard that deserves the same praise—like Kramarczuk's East European Deli, and landmark steakhouses, Manny’s and Murray’s, or the Monte Carlo, a ratpack-esque establishment that’s been serving classic cocktails, steak and seafood since 1906. The legendary cheese-stuffed flat-top burger called the Jucy (or Juicy) Lucy hails from these parts. Two restaurants lay claim to its invention: Matt’s Bar & Grill states the burger originated there, while the 5-8 Club claims their burger, the Juicy Lucy (with an “i”) was the first to appear on menus. The argument as to which one is better has been going on for over 70 years. You’ll need to go to both to decide for yourself.
When it comes to breweries, distilleries, cideries and cocktail culture, most cities twice the size would have a hard time keeping up with what’s happening in Minneapolis. An easy-to-use light rail system along with bike trails that connect paths and parks to pubs and pourhouses make sipping and sampling an accessible pastime.
In the 1800s, Minneapolis was known for its lumber and flour milling industries. Telltale brick structures of both industries remain in the Warehouse District (also referred to as the North Loop), with many of those structures now transformed into condos, boutique stores and restaurants. Definitely a neighbourhood worth exploring. Nearby, the downtown core maintains several buildings from the 1920s, many of which are linked by the Skyway System, a series of enclosed walkways that connect over 80 city blocks. You can spend an entire day admiring gorgeous Art Deco architecture and details while shopping and taking food and drink breaks along the way.
BY MATT LIEN
PHOTO
Prince Rogers Nelson, or Prince, as he was known throughout most of his musical career, is arguably the most famous Minneapolite. The late musician’s mansion, Paisley Park, in the suburb of Chanhassen, is open to the public for tours, concerts and festivals. Robert Zimmerman is another famous Minnesotan. While a freshman at the U of M, he began writing songs that he later recorded at venues including the Orpheum Theatre which he owned from 1979 to 1988. You may know him better as Bob Dylan, the name he chose after leaving Minnesota for New York. The likenesses of Dylan and Prince are featured in an impressive number of outdoor murals around the city.
Cultural arts are strongly rooted here with the Minneapolis Institute of Art, the Walker Arts Center, the American Swedish Institute, and the Museum of Russian Art as venues to explore for music, theatre and visual arts. The Minnesota Orchestra plays downtown at Orchestra Hall, a venue surrounded by restaurants and hotels. Fly in for the weekend for fantastic music, food and drink? Totally doable. If you go now, you’ll experience the colourful wonder of the foliage and mild autumn temperatures of the midwest, but…if you go in winter, specifically from January 23 to February 2 of 2025, you can take in the Great Northern, an annual 10-day festival of indoor and outdoor events that organizers promise will invigorate both body and mind. Take a dip in a hot tub and then scoot down a snowy path to the Sauna Village at the Market at Malcolm Yards—at -15 Celsius, you’ll definitely feel invigorated.
PHOTO BY MEET MINNEAPOLIS
PHOTO BY HIERO VEIGA
PHOTO BY MEET MINNEAPOLIS/GREAT NORTHERN
PHOTO BY MEET MINNEAPOLIS
Approaching winter with a celebratory mindset goes a long way in making it more enjoyable. Firepits, beer gardens and hot chocolate at outdoor events will temper the chill, but gearing up with toques, mitts, down-filled parkas and those sporty boots you just bought can also help. Fall has its sweater-weather cachet, but winter fashion is in a league of its own in Minnesota. Embrace it. You’ll want to be comfortable at the outdoor launch party or watching the ice carving competitions and the U.S. Pond Hockey Championships.
Indoor events are part of the Great Northern, as well, and include plays, short films, concerts, comedy acts, and dinner collaborations between world renowned chefs and some of the area’s finest food stars. The sessions on climate change held at the American Swedish Institute make one keenly aware that the winter season is to be cherished and protected.
In 2024, Minneapolis was named the happiest city in the United States, rated by the London-based research firm, the Institute for Quality of Life. Visit the city any time of year— yes, even in winter—and you’ll see why.
Recommendations
Top tier hotels: Hewing, Emery, Four Seasons
More award-winning food: Oro by Nixta, Khaluna, Porzana
Cocktail Hour: Gai Noi, Meteor, Prohibition Lounge (Foshay Tower)
Taprooms and beerhalls: Fulton, Utepils, Surly, Pryes, Modist
For over three decades, LightForm has illuminated Edmonton's design landscape with an unparalleled blend of innovation, quality and aesthetic brilliance. As Canada’s largest importer of decorative lighting, LightForm is not just a store, it’s a beacon of creativity and design, transforming spaces with a meticulously detailed approach to both lighting and furniture design.
With partnerships spanning approximately 50 lighting brands and 60 decor and furniture brands, LightForm brings a world of possibilities to its clientele. From the iconic hedonistic lights by a-emotional to Octavio Amado's geometric sculpted lights, LightForm’s offerings are a testament to the art of illumination.
Walking into LightForm, one is struck by the harmonious blend of light and shadow; a sensory experience that showcases the transformative power of lighting. The Bocce glass-blown series, with its artisanal craftsmanship, adds a touch of elegance and sophistication, while Archilume’s luxury designs bring forth a modern, sleek aesthetic. Perhaps most captivating is the Verpan Fun chandelier, a nearly 6.5-foot tall masterpiece made of tinkling seashell discs and stainless steel rings that dance with light in a mesmerizing display.
"Organic brutalism is very much on trend these days and we are seeing that in lighting, too,” says Craig Volkerink, regional sales manager for LightForm. “Laser cut wood or organic shapes, mimicking underwater sand, oceans and anything else related to Mother Nature continues to be very popular. Some fixtures may look very delicate, like they are made of fabric, but they are actually made with very durable materials that are meant to last. We are also seeing more ceramics and concrete being used, and of course, coloured glass is on trend, as well."
LightForm’s expertise extends beyond lighting. Their emphasis on fully customizable and modular furniture options ensures that every livable space can be both functional and uniquely personal. The store’s adaptable seating solutions, such as the iconic Ligne Roset Prado sofa and other modular configurations, offer versatile and stylish options for any living space. Each piece is designed with livability in mind, ensuring that comfort and style are never mutually exclusive.
Design lead, Jeandrè Botha, encapsulates the essence of LightForm’s design philosophy perfectly. "It's important to consider the whole design story. You could create the most perfect layout, but if your lighting isn't impactful, it can feel boring,” she says. “One of the things that I love most about design is the storytelling. What is the room about? Where do you want me to go? The eyes go up for information…think traffic lights and aisle signage in a grocery store. The same goes for our homes. Building that storyboard of how it all goes together; it's like stringing a necklace of pearls. Each one of them is important in order to get a full picture.”
Every aspect of LightForm’s operation is meticulously detailed, from the selection of brands, to the personalized service each customer receives. The store’s team of experts takes pride in their ability to handle both the aesthetic and functional aspects of design, creating spaces that are not only beautiful but also practical.
In essence, LightForm is more than just a boutique lighting and furniture store; it is a curator of stories, each piece contributing to a larger narrative of design and living. With a team that is passionate about every detail and a collection that is as diverse as it is exquisite, LightForm continues to light the way in Edmonton’s design community, one meticulously crafted piece at a time.
Lightform can be found at 10545124 St., Edmonton, AB. Open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
WWW.LIGHTFORMSHOP.COM
Harvest Gala 2024
An evening of elegance and generosity
PHOTOGRAPHY BY FONTAINE LEWIS
The 2024 Harvest Gala was a spectacular evening of elegance and philanthropy, bringing together a distinguished group of guests united in their support for the Lois Hole Hospital for Women. Attendees enjoyed an unforgettable night of fine dining, entertainment and heartfelt moments, all while raising crucial funds for the hospital’s ongoing efforts in women’s health. The generosity and community spirit displayed at the event made it a night to remember for all.
