P R E M I E R E
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SUMMER 2012
LIFE
WELL
LIVED
E X C L U S I V E
"True luxury is being able to do exactly what you want."
Just how did this Cuban Jersey girl become the planet’s most beautiful mogul? BY RICHARD PÉREZ-FERIA PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL MURPHREE EXCLUSIVELY FOR HudsonMOD
Hamptons Beauty 911 Tico Torres Randi Rahm Queen Latifah Kimora Lee Simmons
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INSIDE S U M M ER 2 01 2
“You know what’s having real wealth? Creating lifelong memories and spending time with the ones you love.”
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FROM RPF THE WOW THE NUMBERS THE QUOTE THE SITE THE FEED THE 10 THE NEIGHBORHOOD THE LIFE
28 DAISY, IN FULL BLOOM Get to know New Jersey’s most beautiful homegrown mogul. BY RICHARD PÉREZ-FERIA PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL MURPHREE EXCLUSIVELY FOR HudsonMOD
38 RANDI RAHM’S FIFTH AVENUE EMPIRE How did this art loving Long Island girl become the go-to fashion designer to the stars? BY TARA SOLOMON
42 ALPINE’S AMAZING CHATEAU A personal guided tour of an unbelievable home. BY KENNY FORDER
48 YES, PLEASE We found the Caribbean destination of your dreams. BY RICHARD PÉREZ-FERIA
50 HIDING IN PLAIN SIGHT Its reputation notwithstanding, Las Vegas is a true luxury destination. Seriously. BY ERIN DOSTAL
56 HAMPTONS BEAUTY SURVIVAL GUIDE We have your hair, face, and body covered while you’re at play in the ultimate playground. BY MARCO MEDRANO
ON THE COVER DAISY FUENTES WAS PHOTOGRAPHED BY MICHAEL MURPHREE EXCLUSIVELY FOR HudsonMOD. WARDROBE STYLING BY CAROLEE FISHER. HAIR BY LYDIA O’CARROLL/CLOUTIER REMIX. MAKEUP BY SU HAN/CLOUTIER REMIX. SHOT ON LOCATION IN LOS ANGELES.
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COVET THERAPY GORGEOUS DRIVE WATER FOOD + DRINK HOME
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Ghost is the essence of Rolls-Royce in its purest form. Discreet technology and a new V12 engine make for effortless, rewarding driving; while the uncluttered interior cossets every occupant. Simplicity may be hard to achieve, but it’s always worth the effort.
Paul Miller, Inc., An Authorized Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Dealer, 250 Route 46 West, Parsippany, NJ 07054 Tel: 973 575 7751 www.rolls-roycemotorcars-parsippany.com Š Copyright Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Limited 2012. The Rolls-Royce name and logo are registered trademarks.
LIFE WELL LIVED
SUMMER 2012 VO L U M E O N E , N U M B E R O N E
hudsonmod.com
@HudsonMOD
LEILA NAVIDI
Richard Pérez-Feria
HudsonMOD exists solely to make you happy. How many things in your life can you honestly say that about?
Editor in Chief DESIGN DIRECTOR
Aaron Gill SENIOR EDITOR
Erin Dostal ONLINE EDITOR
FROM RPF
Amanda Thorogood
10
Shhh….
In the life-changing summer between fifth and sixth grades, I learned what real luxury means: Silence. W h e n my g o d m oth e r— wh o wa s returning to New York City after a monthlong visit to my family in Miami—asked me if I wanted to go “have an adventure in Manhattan” before the school year began, I leapt at the chance. Are you kidding me? As the only Woody AllenJack Kerouac loving Cuban kid in the neighborhood, the idea of spending time with my favorite aunt in New York away from Miami’s stifling heat was an answer to many a prayer. Just prior to boarding the National Airlines flight, a ticket agent approached us and asked my aunt if we would like to sit in first class where there were two open seats. My aunt smiled and we were escorted to the front of the aircraft. As the curtain was pulled behind us dividing the plane, it hit me: This is different up here. No one spoke. The light was dimmed. I understood. Once in the city of my dreams, my aunt took me on a raucous shopping day filled with toy stores and flea markets before we entered what I at first mistook to be a massive church: Bergdorf Goodman. As we walked through the impossibly heavy doors, I knew we were on a different sort of holy ground. As I took it all in—muted colors and hushed tones enveloped us—I noticed everyone smiling at us. Everyone. We were in the club. And I liked it. Informed by those childhood memories, I’ve always seemed to know the precious commodity most of us crave is the ability to shut the chaotic world out. It happened to me on that airplane so long ago and it happened to me at Bergdorf’s, where the hustle-and-bustle of the world’s greatest city was an instant distant memory. It also happened to me at a friend’s dream beach HUDSONMOD
SUMMER 2012
FASHION EDITOR
house in LaJolla, near San Diego. I spent part of a summer there after my sophomore year at Tulane University, and as I walked to the back of the spectacular residence, I could see through the floor-to-ceiling glass walls half a dozen toddlers running around playing on the beach, clearly shrieking with delight, but I heard nothing. Nothing. In this luxurious modern mansion, I was hermetically, magically protected from the outside world’s noisy distractions. That, to me, is luxury. Real luxury. So, with that, I’d like to quietly welcome you to HudsonMOD, a magazine that strives to be your informed companion, a smart, funny and knowledgeable BFF. Given the constant din that overwhelms m o s t o f o u r d a i l y l i ve s —24 - h o u rnews, social media hyperactivity, the must-know-everything-this-second mentality—HudsonMOD is going to be the calming antidote you crave. Yes, our magazine (and terrific companion website, hudsonmod.com) is full of surprising, enlightening and compelling pictures and words, but it’s mostly a magazine that deeply understands our reader. Our discerning reader. Our reader who knows what genuine luxury is. As you enjoy the fascinating stories and marvel at the striking images, go ahead and smile with the knowledge that HudsonMOD exists solely to make you happy. How many things in your life can you honestly say that about? Go on, take off your shoes and silence your iPhone. It’s time to shut the world out. It’s time to experience real luxury. It’s time to discover HudsonMOD. Shhh….
Tara Solomon BEAUTY/GROOMING EDITOR
Marco Medrano COPY CHIEF
Ellen Wager EDITOR AT LARGE
Lisa Raden CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
Kenny Forder, Sven González Mario Quirce, Mitch Rustad CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS/PHOTOGRAPHERS
Chris Morris, Michael Murphree Myrna Suárez, TK Woo
Shannon Steitz Publisher SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Nicola Clayton, John Knecht ACCOUNT MANAGERS
Renee Berry, Christine Wood MARKETING MANAGER
Amanda Thorogood MARKETING ASSOCIATE
Amanda McElroy CIRCULATION DIRECTOR
Lauren Mena DIGITAL SERVICES MANAGER
Michael LaRosa GRAPHIC DESIGNER, ADVERTISING SERVICES
Andre Frazier ©2012 by MOD Media, LLC All rights reserved ISSN# 2167-6151
For advertising inquiries call 973.249.6157 or email advertising@hudsonmod.com For all editorial inquiries contact editorial@hudsonmod.com For subscription information and customer service contact circulation@hudsonmod.com HudsonMOD is published by MOD Media, LLC
Jason Lembo— CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Shannon Steitz— PRESIDENT Richard Pérez-Feria— EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT
MOD Media, LLC RICHARD PÉREZ-FERIA
info@modmedia.com 973.249.6157 modmedia.com
Executive Vice President, Editor in Chief
@RPerezFeria
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THE WOW OH, BABY Carved entirely out of one Brazilian diamond, the ring takes nine months to make.
The World’s First All-Diamond Ring
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W
e’ve all heard of epic, out-sized engagement rings ranging from Jennifer López’s flawless pink diamond to Kim Kardsahian’s controversial 20-carat stunner, but nothing can prepare us for this all-diamond ring by Shawish in Switzerland, the first of its kind on the planet. Brilliant, shiny and as close to perfect as it gets, this ring, carved entirely out of one Brazilian diamond, takes nine months to make. Want to be the true envy of everyone you know? Now you have your answer. Oh, it’ll run you upwards of $77 million. Wow, indeed.
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THE NUMBERS 5 Number of people from New Jersey on the 2011 Forbes 400 list
$3,600 Cost of one pound of European white truffles
07620 Alpine in Bergen County boasts the most expensive zip code in New Jersey
$233,972 Cost for a bottle of 1869 Château Lafite wine sold at auction in 2010
THE QUOTE "Jersey’s special. We’ve got a sweet spot between New York and Philly. Sometimes places have too much going on.
Jersey’s got it just right. And judging by our property taxes, our secret is out.” —Queen Latifah
4 New Jersey is the fourth most-expensive location to get married in America
$5,745,600 Amount collected daily from car tolls on all Hudson River crossings
$130,000 Cost of a Ulysse Nardin Chairman smartphone
$300,000 Cost for yearly membership at Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, NJ
$1,978.75 Price of the world’s most-expensive sushi: Five pieces garnished with diamonds and wrapped in gold leaf sold in the Philippines
$4,550,000 Median asking price for a house in Bergen County, NJ 14
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ILLUSTRATION BY CHRIS MORRIS EXCLUSIVELY FOR HudsonMOD
THE LIFE
SUMMER 2012
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THE SITE
THE FEED Narciso Rodríguez Fashion Designer
HudsonMOD 24/7 At HudsonMOD we can’t stop talking about the hottest, ultra-exclusive summer vacation getaway. We’ve left behind Malibu and Martha’s Vineyard in exchange for a vacation that’s whatever you’d like to make of it (literally) on a private island in French Polynesia. From relaxing on white-sand beaches to underwater excursions, renting your own island means you’re devoid of the negatives of traveling—think long lines and noisy neighbors—and can bask in the good life. Sounds fabulous, doesn’t it? And lucky you, we’ve saved some of our most tantalizing (and exclusive) discoveries for our website hudsonmod.com.
@narcisostudio Claire Danes looked amazing in hot Narciso pink last night. Alice Gainer Anchor, News 12 New Jersey @AliceGainer Off to @ckokickboxing! Hope I don’t melt in the heat! #beingdramatic
Buzz Aldrin NASA Astronaut @TheRealBuzz Talking with Neil Tyson about “Space Chronicles”. He lost Pluto while we found the moon, now on to Mars.
Bobbi Brown Founder, Bobbi Brown Cosmetics/Make-up Artist @justbobbibrown Last night in Paradise. I want to be the ambassador to The Bahamas. Barack you listening?
Teresa Giudice Star, ‘The Real Housewives of New Jersey’/Author @Teresa_Giudice Everyone’s in bed & I’m finally finally done putting away the laundry. That’s the one thing I hate about going on vacation—the laundry!
Stephen Colbert Host, ‘The Colbert Report’ @StephenAtHome Parents are suing Apple over addictive kids iPad/ iPhone games. The results of the lawsuit will be available as a $2 in-app purchase.
Anthony Bourdain Host, ‘No Reservations’ and ‘The Layover’ @NoReservations We’re going with a Pierrot le Fou or Douglas Sirk color palette for this show. Filmed in ChankoVision.
Bruce Springsteen Rock Legend @Springsteen Dancing in the Dark 16
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THE 10
Golf Sebonack Golf Club $650,000 initiation fee Southampton, NY Sebonack Golf Club is one of the most exclusive and expensive clubs in the US, if not the world. Designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus and Tom Doak, the course hugs the scenic Peconic Bay.
Home “Antilla” $2 billion Mumbai This unbelievable private residence, owned by Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani, has 27 stories, 550 people on staff, three helipads, a two-story gym and a floor entirely dedicated to cars. ¿Su casa, mi casa?
Hotel Royal Penthouse Suite President Wilson Hotel $65,000 per night Geneva This suite has a private elevator entrance, massive living room, library (with pool table) and, lest we forget, twelve bathrooms. And being in Geneva and all, the chocolate on the pillow must be crazy good, too. 18
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Burger Fleur Burger 5000, Fleur Restaurant Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino $5000 Las Vegas This extraordinary Kobe beef burger is topped with foie gras and black truffles and it comes with a bottle of Chateau Petrus 1995.
THE EPITOME OF ELEGANCE ON THE HUDSON 7800 B River Road, North Bergen, NJ 07047 www.WatersideRestaurantandCatering.com Contact: 201.861.7767
THE10:10EXTRAVAGANCE THE
Yacht The Eclipse $600 million Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich rents his $600 million, 538-foot yacht for $2 million a week, not counting maintenance expenses, which run about $650,000 per fuel fill-up. The yacht’s 15 state rooms (all with home theaters), two helipads, submarine and, of course, a missile detection system make up the most extravagant yacht on the planet.
Handbag 1001 Nights Diamond Purse By Mouawad in Dubai $3.8 million Encrusted with more than 4,500 pink, yellow and colorless diamonds, and crafted of 18-carat gold, this handbag is decadence you can carry with you anywhere. Well, not anywhere.
Noma $266 prix fixe; $169 wine pairing Copenhagen What makes this restaurant so extravagant isn’t the cost, but its exclusivity. Boasting two Michelin stars, Noma’s celebrated chef, René Redzepi, is in whitehot demand. How much demand? Well, more than 20,000 people fight for reservations on a daily basis even though Noma has seats for just 20. That much. 20
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THE 10
Car Bugatti Veyron Supersport $2.6 million Once you lay your eyes on this dream on wheels, that sports car you craved won’t feel the same. Believe it. The Bugatti Veyron Supersport tops out at a perfectly reasonable 270 miles per hour.
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Opera
Spa
Salzburg Osterfestpiele (Easter Festival) $673 each performance of Carmen featuring Magdalena Kožená and Jonas Kaufmann Salzburg, Austria Austria has some of the best opera on Earth and Carmen, let’s face it, is legendarily wonderful. Start planning now: In 2013, ticket prices will be lowered to $647. Bravo!
VIP Spa Suite Mandarin Oriental Hotel $1700 New York City The VIP Spa Suite features nearly two hours of side-by-side couple’s treatments, with an hour of relaxation time thrown in. For global spa lovers, the Mandarin Oriental spas are always a must-experience destination. New York City’s is no exception.
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THE NEIGHBORHOOD TASTE OF INDIA Just before hitting the Lincoln Tunnel in Secaucus, you’ll find Mausam, a newly opened Indian restaurant. Mausam, the Indian word for seasons, fuses American culture with authentic Indian cuisine. Its three-floor design allows for an uninterrupted view of the Manhattan skyline whether you’re sitting down for a quaint dinner or hosting a gathering for 175 people in one of the restaurant’s chic private rooms.
through November. The perfect place to find locally sourced fresh produce, this market will help make any meal truly special.
THE SHOE (STORE) FITS Fivestory, a luxury retail store specializing in shoes and home décor, is now open at 18 East 69th Street in New York City. This shop certainly looks like it’s worth the trek across the island—and you’ll have an unforgettable pair of new shoes to show off when you get home.
ROLE MODELS On June 14, the Venetian of Garfield, NJ, is hosting Posh Boutique’s Summer Fashion Show to benefit The National Brain Tumor Society research. The co-ed boutique, based in Towaco, specializes in exclusive fashion pieces.
WEDDING SEASON IS HERE Whether you’re getting married or helping a loved one plan their special day, a bridal show is always a good time. From June 8–10, The Bridal Boutique at Nan Romano in Bedminster will host its trunk show. The show will feature exclusive gowns from designer Jessica Fontaine.
PUTT-PUTT, SIP-SIP Wine, music and golf. Sounds like a perfect summer afternoon, doesn’t it? On June 11 the Liberty National Golf Course in Jersey City will host The Great Wine, Music and Golf Pairing, where for $1,500-$25,000 in donations, guests can play 18 holes paired with 18 amazing wines. Good drinks and a good cause.
MARKET SHARE The Montclair Farmers Market opens June 5 and takes place every Saturday, from 8 am–2 pm,
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APPLAUDING ART Now’s the time to head to the New Jersey Arts Festival at the Montclair Art Museum, 3 South Mountain Avenue. Through July 22, the exhibition will feature more than a dozen local artists. Who doesn’t love great art in their own backyard?
MARGARITA MAGIC Maya, a modern Mexican restaurant, recently opened in New York City at 1191 First Avenue. The restaurant prides itself on its amazing tequila bar, too, so save this spot for an extra special night on the town. Bring a designated driver for sure.
RSVP (from top) The Montclair Farmers Market is now open; the New Jersey Arts Festival runs through July; The Mall at Short Hills welcomes retailer Robert Graham.
JERSEY GREETS MR. GRAHAM A Robert Graham store is opening imminently at The Mall at Short Hills. The Graham brand opened its first retail location in Venice, CA in 2010.
WATCH HUNT International Watch Co. Schaffhausen recently opened its New York City flagship store at 535 Madison Avenue. Pop in and be ready to be duly impressed.
Experience shopping like never before at the legendary Bal Harbour Shops, just a stroll away from our beachfront hotels. Nourish the mind, body and soul with exclusive beach side workouts, and kids club programs designed by the Miami Children’s Museum. Stir the senses at a Bal Harbour Art Night, where Fashion loves Art or at one of several taste-tempting Bal Harbour restaurants.
Located at the Northern tip of Miami Beach. Bal Harbour, where life meets style.
www.BalHarbourFlorida.com
THE LIFE [KIMORA LEE SIMMONS]
T
here are few people—let alone women—in the world who have more and better-suited titles than one Kimora Lee Simmons. Mother. Wife. Supermodel. Mogul. Author. Philanthropist. Producer. Television star. Force of friggin’ nature. Simmons, former wife of powerhouse music and fashion billionaire Russell Simmons and current wife of three-time Oscar-nominated actor Djimon Hounsou, always seems to have strong men in her life. Good thing. This lady wants it all. Though a lot can be said for her considerable successful business ventures—the Baby Phat fashion empire and the KLS
Design Group among them—what sets Simmons apart from so many other glamorous entrepreneurs is her palpable desire to create. You can see her desire to succeed in her stunning face. She’s nothing short of a creative dynamo in head-to-toe couture and four-inch heels and wouldn’t have it any other way. Simmons’ 21st century blended family of three children and husband Hounsou call Saddle River, NJ, home. HudsonMOD caught up with the exotic beauty as she prepared a slew of new fashion-related launches for the world to see. For someone who wants it all, Kimora Lee Simmons sure looks like she has it all. Here’s the thing: She wants even more. —Richard Pérez-Feria
How do you personally define luxury? It’s funny that a lot of people think about luxury in broad, sweeping terms—a little heavy-handed. 99 percent of luxury is found in the details that most people may not notice: The stitching, the weave, the handle, the details. Luxury is when an object can tell a story and bring you into it.
What’s the one luxury accessory you couldn’t live without? I have a vintage Chanel agenda/planner that’s one of a series I’ve collected. Because I’m a meticulous note taker and list maker, it’s well worn and truly loved. I love tonal stitching and the gold leaf on the paper inserts—to me at least, that’s luxury.
KIMORA KNOWS “Luxury is found in the details.”
How does luxury play a role in any of your businesses? Luxe sells, definitely. Luxury is one way of showing the consumer you’ve thought about your product as a part of their lifestyle. I began my career as a model and have always taken inspiration from the brands I wore on the runways and in advertising campaigns and infused those sensibilities into whatever I was creating. We built a billion-dollar brand by offering that extra touch or special surprise that people appreciate.
Ever worry about your children being too isolated and not fully aware of others’ hardships? All three of my kids have activists for fathers. My ex-husband [Russell Simmons] works tirelessly on behalf of the underprivileged and marginalized, so Ming and Aoki are well aware of economic injustice and their role in working to reverse it. My son Kenzo is almost three—still very young, but his father [husband, Djimon Hounsou] will undoubtedly instill in him the belief that we all take care of each other. 26
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DESIGN | CONSTRUCTION | MAINTENANCE
E X C L U S I V E
TV LAND “It’s because of television I have everything I have. TV is my home,” says MTV legend Daisy Fuentes shown here in her Los Angeles home.
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Daisy, In Full Bloom Cuban born and New Jersey raised, Daisy Fuentes is much more than a television star and a multi millionaire mogul. After 25 years in the spotlight, she tells us she’s just getting started. BY RICHARD PÉREZ-FERIA PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL MURPHREE EXCLUSIVELY FOR HudsonMOD
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JERSEY? SURE: “Jersey represents the best of everything and the most real of everything. So, yeah, Jersey matters to me,” the Cuban beauty says, shown here with TK (dog’s name if we use this pic)
TEAM JERSEY “Jersey represents the best of everything and the most real of everything. So, yeah, Jersey matters to me.”
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I
needed daisies. Thousands of daisies. And I needed them now. When Daisy Fuentes entered my consciousness nearly—could it be?—a quar ter centur y ago, she was the impossibly beautif ul host of MT V Internacional, a weekly syndicated Spanish-language program that featured videos and celebrity interviews and aired all over Latin America and the US. I had never made a point of watching Spanish TV, but this show was the exception. I just couldn’t take my eyes off of the charismatic presence on the small screen smiling back at me, and I knew this woman, this Daisy Fuentes, was going to be huge. Huge. Shortly thereafter, as editor of a Spanish language luxury magazine, I asked Fuentes to be among the first stars to appear on our publication’s cover. By now, the Cuban-born beauty had crossed over to become MTV’s first Hispanic VJ as well as the host of the network’s wildly popular fashion program, House of Style all the while continuing her Spanish language hosting duties. Back to the daisies. My genius—and admittedly somewhat obvious—idea for the Fuentes cover story I was working on was to photograph her nude surrounded by thousands of daisies, revealing just enough of her impressive body. But before I could make this happen, I had to convince the star herself. When I first met Fuentes as she bounded into a Miami Beach photo studio all those years ago, she asked, with a wide smile on her face, “Where’s Richard? I need to see Richard!” and went on to give me the biggest hug I had ever received. Ever. Oh, yes, this was going to be a great day. And it was. When I brought up this decades-old memory to Fuentes as we prepared for the HudsonMOD cover story, she jumped out of her chair and said, “Of course I remember that shoot! I loved that cover. Richard, you were the first person to ever SUMMER 2012
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shoot me with daisies. God, that was a long time ago.” Daisy Fuentes was born in Havana, Cuba, 45 years ago to a Cuban father and a Spanish mother. At the age of three, Fuentes’ family fled Fidel Castro’s tyrannical dictatorship and moved to Madrid for a few years before settling in Harrison, NJ, where Fuentes spent her happy childhood, culminating in becoming Homecoming Queen at Harrison High School. At 17, she became a model and later enrolled in cosmetology school and soon thereafter was asked to become the weather person for New York City’s Spanish language Telemundo affiliate before moving to rival Univision as weather anchor and reporter. It was from the Univision gig that Fuentes jumped to MTV and has never really looked back in a career that has included scores of high-profile hosting jobs—America’s Funniest Home Videos, Miss Universe Pageant, Dick Clark’s Rockin’ New Year’s Eve, World Music Awards— as well as massively lucrative business ventures, not the least of which is her current success at Kohl’s department stores selling her Daisy Fuentes-branded clothes and accessories. Her financial relationship with Kohl’s brings in revenue in the many, many millions of dollars. On the relationship front, Fuentes has had a couple of long-term romances with high-voltage men, most notably Mexican superstar singer Luis Miguel— arguably the most famous Spanish speaking celebrity on the planet—whom she dated seriously more than a decade ago. Fuentes has also been engaged to Sinatra-esque singer Matt Goss, who’s currently headlining in Las Vegas to great critical fanfare. But the Daisy Fuentes I speak to today is not the same Daisy Fuentes I knew from the MTV days. Secure in her skin, confident in her choices, happy in her life, the 2012 Fuentes has never been more beautiful, more fully realized. But how did she get here? And where is she going? I wanted to know: What’s driving this Daisy? This sexy television star/millionaire business mogul/potty-mouthed Jersey girl is clearly, buoyantly in full bloom. And, lucky us, she’s just getting started. 32
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"I’ve had a lifelong love How would you describe Daisy Fuentes? What’s the elevator pitch? She’s a fucking goddess! [Laughs]. That’s a funny question because some people do seem to have a hard time with that. But if I had to pinpoint it, it would be television personality. It’s because of television I have everything I have. TV is my home.
Tell me about New Jersey. Jersey means everything that’s real to me. There’s a real grittiness to New Jersey. Jersey is a big part of who I am, even on Twitter, the first thing in my public bio says “Jersey girl.” I
grew up on the streets of Jersey with a real strong sense of toughness. You become stronger in Jersey and you curse—a lot [Laughs]! Jersey represents the best of everything and the most real of everything. So, yeah, Jersey matters to me.
Whenever I see you on television or on a red carpet or even hanging out with friends, the term “effortless” always comes to mind, particularly in front of the camera. Are you just a natural born talent? Maybe a little. But, I’ll tell you something, I had an executive
affair with a country I can’t have." producer at MTV who critiqued me something harsh and I got better.
Here’s what I always thought was incredible about your TV work: How completely fluent and at ease you equally are in both English and Spanish. Gloria Estefan—another Cuban-born star and our great mutual friend—is the only other person I know who has that same ability to fully inhabit both languages without a hitch on camera. You’re right; it’s not something you see every day. Most bilingual people on television speak one language better
than the other. I refer to my English/ Spanish combo hosting abilities as “apple pie meets frijoles negros.” I love it. [Laughs].
If you could change one thing in your life, what would that be? Oh, God, I would’ve stopped aging externally at least ten years ago! I would definitely continue growing internally, but the external aging has got to stop [Laughs]!
When was the last time you cried? Honestly, it was the last time I saw that ASPCA commercial about adopting SUMMER 2012
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“I chose not to have children. It’s not something I want right now.” those puppies and kittens. My God that’s sad. You know, the other day I saw a homeless woman who I speak to sometimes near my home and as I drove away I started to cry thinking about how hard her life is. Any kind of suffering makes me crazy. Abuse of the elderly, women, children or animals fills me with rage.
blood. But you know I also feel very Spanish because my mom is from Spain.
Define what luxury means to you.
Cuba is different for all of us who have been denied our homeland, our country. I’ve had a lifelong love affair with a country I can’t have.
The term “luxury” is relative to me. Yes, luxury literally means having the better things in life but I like the paradox luxury conjures up—wearing a couture dress and walking around barefoot or boarding a private jet in an old T-shirt. But true luxury is being able to do exactly what you want. That’s luxury.
Describe a defining crossroad.
What do you feel passionate about?
I’ve had a few important crossroads in my life but the single most important decision I ever made was the day I decided to choose peace over anger. I became overtly spiritual and tamed my anger. Today, very few things can ruin my buzz. Being on this spiritual path and choosing peace, has helped me in immeasurable ways. Spirituality is always searching for answers and I need teachers in my life.
Well, I’m a Scorpio so there’s a lot of passion right there.
I feel so Cuban in every way even though I’ve never set foot in Cuba. Strange doesn’t begin to cover it.
Who was your first love? Oh, who remembers! I’ll tell you someone who I used to love, love, love, Richard—John Travolta. Oh my God! How dreamy was he? And still is. Vinnie Barbarino? Tony Manero? Danny Zuko? Are you kidding me? Sexy doesn’t begin to cover it [Laughs].
When did you first realize you were actually wealthy? You know, I started modeling when I was 17 so I’ve always had my own money. I was always independent so the whole wealth thing happened slowly, organically for me. Money has never, ever been my driving force. Money doesn’t motivate me. I’ll tell you what real wealth means to me. The fact that I can take my entire family on a beautiful weeks-long vacation and I can cover everything so all we’re worrying about is creating lifelong memories; that’s having real wealth. Sharing times with the ones you love.
Tell me about being Cuban. I definitely feel Cuban; Cuba is in my
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Describe a perfect day. Today is always a perfect day.
What was your first luxury purchase? My very first car I bought in Jersey, a Fiero GT. That was a sweet car until I spun out on an icy road because the car’s engine was in the back. I sometimes miss that car.
Are you in love now? Yes, I’m always in love [Laughs]. You know me Richard; it’s always really nice to have a couple of men hanging around [Laughs].
And you’re Cuban. Right! But I feel passion for helping people; I really have passion for that. I think that’s a big part of who I am.
Do you think you’ll ever want children? Not really. I chose not to have children. It’s not something I want right now, but the truth is, I don’t really know for sure. I’m very fulfilled in my life, and I don’t need to fill a void with children.
What’s something surprising about you no one knows? I’ve never ever had a one-night stand.
Seriously? Well, as of now [Laughs]! I mean, it’s not a rule or anything, but I can’t fake passion at all. I have to get to know someone well first. I believe that famous quote from Hunter S. Thompson: “Sex without love is as hollow and ridiculous as love without sex.” My sentiments exactly.
RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE “The single most important decision I ever made was the day I decided to choose peace over anger,” says the former Cover Girl supermodel.
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“I want longevity and I think I’m on my way to achieving that.”
BÉSAME MUCHO “I’m always in love,” Fuentes says laughing. “It’s always really nice to have a couple of men hanging around.”
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Where are the family gatherings? Well, I live in Los Angeles and the majority of my family is in Miami so we usually take snow trips for Christmas and holidays. We love it.
What’s the single best business advice you followed? Andy Cohan, another close mutual friend of ours and the licensing genius behind your huge Kohl’s deal, is a big fan of yours, as you know. Andy Cohan’s very, very good at what he does, that’s for sure. Someone once told me two things I’ve always tried to do: Know what your story is and surround yourself with the best people available. My goal was never to make it and go away. I want longevity and I think I’m on my way to achieving that.
Speaking of longevity, where are you in five years? In five years, I’ll hopefully be on a yacht in St. Tropez surrounded by fabulous people [Laughs].
Am I there? Sure. You can write all about it [Laughs]!
When was the last time you were genuinely surprised? You know when you kind of know something’s going to happen, but when it actually does it still shocks you? That happens to me all the time.
What’s next for Daisy Fuentes? Well, let’s see, my businesses are doing very well and I’m developing several television projects. There’s always a lot going on but I love it. Bring it on! I’m having a helluva good time [Laughs]!
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Carrie Underwood “This gown was a custom designed performance piece for Carrie Underwood for the 2010 Country Music Awards. We had a very tight deadline to create and put together this hand-beaded gown with a 12-foot long train. Four people actually worked around the clock five straight days in order to complete it on time. Carrie also chose two of our other dresses to wear that same night while hosting the show.”
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Randi Rahm’s Fifth Avenue Empire Creating red carpet stunners for the likes of Jennifer López, Halle Berry and Christina Aguilera isn’t enough for NYC designer Randi Rahm. She’s a bona fide Renaissance woman. BY TARA SOLOMON
ADRIANNA FAVERO
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very young girl has a defining fashion moment that determines the direction of her personal style. For me, it was my friend Debbie Chase’s “Cabaret Barbie” evening gown, its little black sequined mermaid curves and hemline-sprouting black tulle nothing short of mesmerizing. Although my grade-school mind was too naïve to understand, the doll dress’s plunging décolleté and second-skin fit was a testament to pure sex appeal. It was exactly what I wanted to look like. Not that I trotted around Allen Park Elementary in risqué evening gowns, but, at home, I did indulge in some rather over-the-top dress-up, which today might be classified as drag. My eccentric maternal grandmother, Rose, was to thank/blame for my alter-ego wardrobe, which was comprised of frothy 1950s prom dresses in soft pastels and pointy-toed stilettos, along with my own garish ballet recital getups with names such as “Yellow Bird” and “Irish Miss.” As I matured, vintage kitsch gave way to film goddess glamour as I became transfixed by Hollywood stars and their wardrobes. Why couldn’t my life be as perfectly accessorized as Elizabeth Taylor’s in A Place in the Sun with her full-skirted debutante dresses and pristine gloves? Why, oh why, couldn’t my life be as fanciful as Marilyn Monroe’s in The Prince and the
Showgirl? I wanted to be Liz, Marilyn, Hedy, Audrey, Lauren, Esther and Jayne, all rolled into one. But didn’t every retro girl growing up in the ’60s and ’70s? Today’s most viral fashion icons— the It Girls from the film, television and music industries—are helping to create a new breed of pint-sized divas who crank up their iTunes and prance around in outfits inspired by their idols. And just as the screen sirens of old had their fashion gurus in Edith Head, Givenchy and Christian Dior, today’s femme fatales have go-to designers who understand the essence of glamour. One of Hollywood’s most valuable leading ladies is New York City-based couturier Randi Rahm, she of country artist Miranda Lambert’s liquid gold, hand-beaded sequin “Silvia” gown with crystal diamante detailing, worn to the recent Country Music Awards where she won both “Top Female Vocalist” and “Album of the Year.” “Glamour itself is the way a woman should always feel,” says Rahm, who has an atelier on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan and a showroom in Los Angeles. Rahm, who admits she’s always in a pair of high heels, has helped many of Hollywood’s A-list
WHEN IN RAHM “Glamour itself is the way a woman should always feel,” says New York City-based fashion designer Randi Rahm, here in one of her creations. SUMMER 2012
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ladies feel their most glamorous, including Halle Berry, Beyoncé, Catherine Zeta Jones, Eva Mendes, Katherine Heigl, Eva Longoria, Mariah Carey, Edie Falco, Fergie and Carrie Underwood. The Help actress Ahna O’Reilly wore Rahm’s tea-length, black tulle and gold micro-bead “Jill” cocktail dress to the must-go-to Vanity Fair Oscar Party and the Elton John AIDS Foundation Oscars party. American Idol fans will remember Jennifer López’s metallic mini-dress of hand-beaded copper sequins. Cut like an extra-large T-shirt, the dress looked just as comfy, without sacrificing the dazzle. Granddaughter of the editor of the New York Daily Mirror, Rahm has NYC in her DNA. But fashion was not this Long Island native’s first love. Art, history and music—she has degrees in them all—were her passions. A classically trained conductor and concert pianist, Rahm considers her design prowess an extension of her creativity, fashion another medium of artistic expression. Her love of music is reflected in “the movement, the color and even certain fabric choices” of her silhouettes, says the sought-after designer. Fashion as an avocation surfaced only after Rahm fortuitously created for her son a quilt, which she sold to a local boutique, which in turn commissioned more, and turned into a request that she design a line of dresses for little girls. And those little girls, as we well know, need their fashion. And how.
Sandra Lee “Having dressed Sandra Lee before, she came to me requesting a gown to co-host this year’s Elton John’s AIDS Academy Awards Party. We selected this sleek, 1940s micro-beaded gown, which truly made Sandra a sexy, yet sophisticated sensation. Whether dressing her for the red carpet or on the arm of her beau, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, Sandra brings style to everything she wears.”
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Jennifer López “This is a fun Mod cocktail dress, constructed as a hand-beaded, oversized T-shirt. JLo pulled it off magnificently, especially showing off her sculpted legs. Her sense of style and minimal accessories helped to highlight the finished look.”
Julianne Hough “Being a dancer, Julianne Hough was a perfect fit for the Melissa Gown, a backless, halter, full flowing skirt of imported, silk jacquard coral chiffon. It was obvious she truly enjoyed working the red carpet. With a simple ponytail and infectious smile, every shot we saw of her was breathtaking.”
Beyoncé Taraji P. Henson “I’m always thrilled when Taraji P. Henson visits the studio. She’s such a wonderful person. Besides that, she fits perfectly into everything she tries on, which made it difficult to select what she finally wore to the NAACP Awards earlier this year. We finally narrowed it down to our Sylvia gown, a wash of silver sequins and crystals in a web-like pattern.”
“Golden girl Beyoncé wore our golden Gypsy dress to the opening of Jay-Z’s Atlantic City nightclub, 40-40. Nobody wears the Gypsy dress like she does.”
Christina Aguilera “Christina Aguilera chose Foxy, a black satin, simple but sexy gown that was slit high and open in all the right places to wear to the Clive Davis pre-Grammy Party. Evoking true Hollywood glamour, Christina was channeling a young Marilyn Monroe with her blonde curls and bright red lips.”
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Alpine’s Amazing
Take a peek inside the most talked about home in the most talked about town. The 14,000 square foot mansion in Alpine designed by architect John Henry is simply, well, beyond. 42
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Chateau
BY KENNY FORDER
E
ver since I was a kid, I had an obsession
with mansions. I mean, seriously obsessed. As I got older I would go to open houses every Sunday and would be in awe of the homes I encountered. A few years ago, I decided to share my passion for luxury real estate with others by starting www.homesoftherich.com, one of the most popular real estate blogs focusing mostly in northern New Jersey. And that’s how I came to HudsonMOD. Another luxury real estate success story. In pursuit of gorgeous mansions, I’ve been to dozens of affluent towns in northern New Jersey, but nothing comes close to the opulence that is found in Alpine. Located just 15 miles northwest of Manhattan, Alpine is currently the most expensive zip code in the United States. The city boasts dozens upon dozens of million-dollar mansions and is home to countless celebrities including Sean “P. Diddy” Combs, Chris Rock and Jay-Z. One of Alpine’s newest homes is the masterpiece you see here, a fairy-tale slate roof stone manor that has some 14,000 square feet of, frankly, ridiculously luxe living space. 21 rooms. 7 bedrooms. 11 bathrooms. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill millionaire manse. It’s an event unto itself. While surrounding homes are of similar size, the sheer craftsmanship of this home puts it in a league of its own.
A couple of summers ago, I toured this magnificent French Chateau style mansion in the nation’s most expensive residential town, Alpine, NJ. This stunning home was designed by acclaimed architect John Henry. It features two gated entrances and lush front-yard landscaping. As you walk up to the house, a massive front entry double door that features the same iron used on the gates greets you. One of the most unique features of the exterior is the different rooflines as well as the stones that were individually hand cut.
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I was literally speechless as I entered the home and saw the grand sweeping staircase. The intricate moldings and wrought iron banisters add an aggressive elegance to the staircase. The wrought iron railing was hand-torched with hot wax by the owner himself to add a unique finish to it. The foyer also boasts imported French limestone floors that were pillowed.
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I’ve always loved me a gourmet kitchen, and the kitchen in this home is a showstopper. I first stumbled upon a butler’s pantry with custom backsplash, wine cooler, farmhouse sink and an espresso machine. The kitchen itself features gorgeous two-toned furnituregrade cabinetry and a large center island. The kitchen cabinets are made by Salernos and have 5/4 doors made of Russian birch. Antique mirrored glass is incorporated into one section of the cabinet doors—perfect for showcasing fine glassware. The same custom backsplash in the butler’s pantry is carried throughout the entire kitchen. Top-of-the-line appliances include two Sub-Zero refrigerators with freezer drawers, copper sinks and faucets, a prep area with two hidden Sub-Zero refrigerator drawers and an impressive 60-inch Wolf stove.
Just past the foyer, I walked into a mahogany paneled office—some may call it a library—to my left. Spacious, the room features an abundance of built-in bookshelves and rich hardwood floors. I definitely could picture myself working there.
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Who doesn’t long for a sumptuous master bathroom, exactly like the one in this home? I mean, c’mon! This bathroom’s features include a beamed ceiling, imported tumbled Jerusalem stone, the prerequisite claw-footed bathtub, oversized steam shower with large rain-head and multiple body spray, double sink vanity and a separate makeup vanity.
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“It was exactly like walking into a tropical oasis.�
As I leaned over the terrace balcony, I gazed at the glistening free-form swimming pool with adjoining spa. The surrounding stone patio is a beautiful sand color and really stands out against all of the green foliage. Simply stunning.
The rear exterior of this home is also quite impressive. When I stepped outside it was exactly like walking into a tropical oasis. The perfectly manicured lawn and abundance of foliage made it feel like a private getaway. What I really liked about the back of the home is that the terrace level opens into the backyard, which makes for perfect accessibility to the bathroom/changing rooms after taking a dip in the pool. Other great features include a large entertaining terrace off the first floor and balconies off two separate bedroom suites.
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Yes, Please
When you imagine what a dream Caribbean destination looks like, this is what you see: The Radisson Blu Resort, Marina & Spa in St. Martin BY RICHARD PÉREZ-FERIA
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OMG “God was very good to us here,” so says Jean-marc Jalbert, general manager for the luxe resort.
hat does a dream look like? That’ll be the pervasive question on your mind as you descend into this magnificent escape (the term “resort” doesn’t seem to do this corner of Heaven on Earth quite enough justice) in St. Martin. How could it not? Look at that beach. Look at those views. This is precisely where you go for the fantasy Caribbean vacation of your life. Not. Kidding. One. Bit. I’m not alone in my assessment about the Radisson Blu Resort, Marina & Spa. In fact, its unbelievably charming general manager (and Four Seasons New York veteran), Jean-marc Jalbert, takes it a step further with his astute assessment: “God was very good to us here.” Indeed. The fabulosity starts right after the non-stop JetBlue flight from JFK lands in this French colony tucked away in the southeastern Caribbean. You’re immediately escorted to a surprising half-hour water taxi straight to the property’s marina, all the while admiring the impossibly turquoise water, impressive millionaire estates and, perhaps, even sipping on an adult beverage. No tiny taxis thrashing over potholed streets for Blu’s guests. Arrive wind swept and energized. The resort itself is secluded—it’s surrounded on three sides by nature reserves and mountains—so your guard comes down because you feel protected, relaxed. Just like a vacation should be. A resort should also be about food, and Blu has several tremendous offerings. For breakfast, the legendary buffet at Le Marché is a must. Well, only if the sound of homemade croissants, fresh French pressed coffee, all-natural smoothies and every conceivable breakfast food known to man sound enticing. At dinner, C Le Restaurant tops off another day in paradise with its four-star offerings and priceless panoramic views. During the day, eat poolside or on the beach or try Le Lobby Bar’s amazing tapas. Another must is, of course, Le Spa. It’s exactly what you hope a world-class spa would be. Oh, with the nicest staff of any hotel anywhere. Every single person who works at Blu will feel like a long-lost friend (a good friend, not like the ones who keep poking you on Facebook). The staff learns your name almost instantly and makes your every wish their genuine pleasure. I’ve been all over the Caribbean experiencing the region’s very best resorts, and I’ve never seen anything quite like the warmth and truly caring personnel at Blu. It’s intoxicating and deeply gratifying. And be sure to pay homage to Blu’s longest full-time resident, Gaston, the resort’s bright orange, six-foot long (!) iguana. It’s harmless and quite the draw, as you can imagine. So, what does a dream look like? It looks exactly like the Radisson Blu Resort, Spa & Marina in St. Martin. Please don’t pinch me, this is one dream I don’t ever want to wake from. SUMMER 2012
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ALL IN During the past couple of decades, Las Vegas has morphed from a tawdry locale into a paradise for foodies, luxury shoppers, spa goers and concert enthusiasts.
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Hiding In Plain Sight The relentless ‘what happens here stays here’ marketing of Las Vegas does the desert city a disservice. Fact: Las Vegas is the most luxe destination in America. Best part? No gambling required. BY ERIN DOSTAL
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VEGAS STRIPPED (above) Culinary master Rick Moonen, chef/owner at RM Seafood in the Mandalay Bay Resort, is famous for his private sushi lessons in Vegas; (bottom left) MGM’s SkySuites are among the most luxurious accommodations on the Strip; (top left) indulging is mandatory at Canyon Ranch Spa.
his is the true story of the ultimate luxury vacation of your dreams in Las Vegas. Yes, that Las Vegas. And no, we’re not kidding. Picture this: You step into the room and silently gasp as you’re completely taken aback by the sheer decadence you’ve encountered. The marble tables, vaulted ceilings, luxurious baths, massive dining area and baby grand piano all make you take stock for a moment. A silently efficient butler carts your bags away in the huge master bedroom while the two of you slink out onto the patio that oversees the Garden of the Gods—an impossibly large, clear pool full of fountains and Romanesque columns. Your eyes blur a bit, adjusting to the too-hot summer sun. You smile to yourself delighted to realize this isn’t a dream and you call to one of your butlers to prepare you a gin gimlet, up. You sit down, pull your floppy sunhat over your eyes and kick off your newly purchased pair of Dior wedges. Now this, you think, is the life. Not a slot machine or drunk Spring Breaker in sight. But this isn’t Italy or Monaco we’re talking about—it’s the Marcus Aurelius suite in the Octavius Tower at Caesars Palace in Vegas. Even though it’s on the fabled Strip, this suite couldn’t feel farther away from the crowds toting yard-long margaritas from poker table to poker table, from strip club to sports book. Appropriately enough, you find that your powder room’s sink is fashioned after a baptismal font, an alltoo astute reminder that this isn’t your Vegas cliché. The attention to detail is immaculate. The suite, named for the Roman emperor, is 12,000 square feet and costs in excess of $40,000 per night. Trust—it’s worth every single penny. During the past couple of decades, Vegas has morphed from a tawdry locale into a paradise for foodies, luxury shoppers, spa goers and concert enthusiasts. Let us take you on a tour of your very own Las Vegas. Loosen up those pocketbooks, and get ready for the time of your life. You climb out of your custom-made bed at the Marcus Aurelius suite and toss on the gorgeous pink Gucci sundress your personal shopper picked up at the Forum Shops the evening before, only to start your day at Canyon Ranch spa, a locale likely worth a weeklong Las Vegas vacation itself. After being greeted in the spa’s lobby, you change into a robe and lounge in a huge co-ed area sipping refreshing juice. It’s so nice to be able to lounge with your husband at the spa, you think, and you take another sip. “Should we start our treatments?” you ask, as you pull your hair back with ribbon. His answer is a resounding, “yes.” The two of you are led into a room with pots of five different muds to choose from. Each one, you’re instructed, is for a different body part. This Vegas-exclusive Canyon Ranch ceremony, called Rasul, begins. You and your husband apply mud to each other, after being instructed how to do so by a Canyon Ranch therapist. After that, you wander into the Rasul chamber, where steam infused with rose petals and lavender fills the air. Then, finally, it rains from the ceiling, cleaning you off just in time for your full-body massage. The cost of Rasul: just $195 per pair. A tad excessive? Yes. Traditional Vegas? Anything but. After your massage you decide to wander into Canyon Ranch’s salon, where you and your husband get manicures and pedicures—and you get one fabulous blowout.
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After a quick stop back in your suite at Caesars Palace—and one final darkred lipstick touch-up in the powder room—you and your husband take a town car down to Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino, where, he says, he’s planned a spectacular surprise. You pull up the back way to Mandalay Bay and walk to The Beach, the resort’s gargantuan pool area complete with sand, a wave pool and palm trees. You notice that there’s nobody there. That’s odd, you think, for a place this large to be so empty on a summer Saturday night. Then you see it: A candle-lit dinner on the sandy beach surrounded by palm trees. Prepared by world-class chef Hubert Keller at Fleur, this unforgettable gastronomic experience is made just for the two of you. As you begin your second course, you see a band setting up on the stage. Soon, as you’re served dessert, the truth is revealed to you: A Bruce Springsteen concert just for you two. A. Bruce. Springsteen. Concert. Only. For. You. You seriously can’t believe this one—and all this can be had for as little as $115,000 or as much as $265,000 (depends on your private singer). One thing’s certain: This is one amazing, life-altering story that that won’t be staying in Vegas. After that ridiculously over-the-top evening, the next day you decide to indulge yourself in a little luxe shopping spree at the Forum Shops at Caesars and the Wynn. At the Wynn Esplanades, you drop the most cash, getting a personal shopper to help you pick out a Chanel bag, a Louis Vuitton steamer truck (you couldn’t believe you hadn’t bought one before) and a Cartier bracelet. For lunch you have your driver take you back to Mandalay Bay. Today, you can’t be late for a semi-private sushi-making lesson with celebrated seafood chef Rick Moonen. For your share of $12,000, you meet up with a group of 20 people who are all ready for their sushi lesson. Chef Moonen gives you and your new sushi loving friends a two-hour lesson and a tour of RM Seafood, Chef’s Moonen’s award-winning restaurant. After lunch, your husband decides it’s his turn to do some spending on the Strip. In a great mood from the fun morning you had, you’re happy to tag along. You have your driver take you back to the Wynn, where your husband makes a b-line for the Penske-Wynn Ferrari Maserati dealership—the only dealership of its kind on the Vegas Strip. Within moments of walking in, he’s got his eyes on the 458 Italia Spyder. The car’s price ranges from $250,000$400,000, and he just has to have it. Without even taking it for a spin first—it’s against the dealership’s policy, and perhaps understandably so—he buys one on the spot. And even you’re impressed by how quickly he decided to pull the trigger on the beautiful machine. You tell your driver that you won’t be needing his services any more and hop into the car for a joy ride into the Nevada desert. You drive out on Charleston Boulevard and head straight toward the gorgeous Red Rock Canyon. Whipping around corners and enjoying the view of a little nature, this is a little known aspect of any fabulous Las Vegas adventure that you truly weren’t expecting. And it’s quite a pleasant surprise. In Las Vegas, where to go for an elegant dinner is as difficult a question as anyone is likely to face in this town. So many choices, so many world famous chefs; what’s one to do? How about dining at Le Cirque at Bellagio (after watching the oh-so beautiful fountains out front for free) and order the caviar menu, which includes Caspian Sea Russian Golden Osetra Caviar for $495 per ounce. Or, if you’re a little hungrier, you could head to Joël Rubuchon, which has three Michelin stars, at MGM Grand Hotel and Casino and dine on the chef’s 14-course menu degustation for $425 each, complete with foie gras, cheeses, caviars, beef and, yes, dessert. Another option is dining at é by José Andrés at The Cosmopolitan, a
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BIG CHILL The conservatory at Canyon Ranch Spa pulls you in. Here’s the spa’s spacious co-ed relaxation space.
private room for eight where a prix fixe menu is served along with a beverage (thankfully, we’re pretty sure they mean alcohol) pairing for $265 per person. The room is large enough that you can decide to invite some of your new friends from the RM sushi-making lesson you had earlier in the day. Decadent. Delicious. Delightful. These meals are totally, utterly Vegas. After waking up in your suite you decide to spend your final day in Las Vegas at the pool at The Cosmopolitan, where you and your husband have rented a cabana, just for two. You overlook the Strip as the sun sets, enjoying the ever-changing crowds milling beneath you. As you sip your third (or was it fourth) gin gimlet you think about how lucky you are to have experienced this ultra luxe version of Las Vegas, the Las Vegas that isn’t advertised, the Las Vegas that’s been hiding in plain sight. Yes, the Las Vegas that’s tailor-made just for you. SUMMER 2012 HUDSONMOD
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HAMPTONS BEAUTY SURVIVAL GUIDE So you’ve finally made it to Long Island’s fabled East End and your beauty team is M-I-A? No worries, we’ve got you covered—hair, face and body. BY MARCO MEDRANO
F
inally, the season you live for is here—it’s summer, people! In. The. Hamptons. Although you know that remaining beautiful (and ever youthful) is a year-round, comprehensive endeavor, many of you have used the fall and winter to your full advantage. A lot of us have surely concluded the last in a series of body sculpting procedures, ultra sonic slimming and particle-free, hydra-infused micro-dermabrasion, yes? And of course your mink lashes are flawless, and your little “jiggle-nomore” has been relocated to your lips and cheekbones. While your primary color weave and keratin smoothing treatments are locked in until Labor Day, right? Fret not. If you’re a little behind or just can’t, won’t, fathom turning down the beauty dial volume—we’ve got you covered here at HudsonMOD. As a nationally licensed colorist, stylist, beauty and grooming editor and antiaging product expert, I’ve worked at and seen many of the top salons and spas internationally, with much of that time spent in Europe and Beverly Hills. And, like you, my quest for endless exterior maintenance (and reversal) is on constant red alert. How could it not be? Now, while looking effortlessly beach-chic in the Hamptons for a few comes naturally, we all know that even at our most relaxed, we want (need) to be camera-ready, even if there are no photogs jumping out from behind sand dunes or flash bulbs going off at the Ina Garten-approved cheese shop. Hence, our selfimprovement regimen doesn’t stop just because we’re
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ON DISPLAY, ON DISPLAY In the Hamptons, we want (need) to be camera-ready, even if there are no photogs jumping out from behind sand dunes or flash bulbs going off at the Ina Garten-approved cheese shop.
BATTER UP Southampton’s 27 Hampton Salon is frequented by many of New York City’s fashion and media heavy hitters.
re-enacting the more glamorous scenes from Revenge. (It really is must-see television). Knowing that when most of us travel, we tend to stock up on beauty services, sometimes even stopping for a Brazilian Wax before the tarmac. No guilt, here. So, although you or your invaluable assistant can just as easily get a referral for the best smoothing blowout or red carpet facial (or look online), HudsonMOD decided to take a beauty tour of the Hamptons for you, hand picking a few spa and salon gems that will spare you the dreaded turn-around-and-walk-out scene (we’ve all been there). This isn’t to say that other establishments not on our list couldn’t please you too, my goal was to be objective, based on seasoned skills, customer service, pride of work and all around store look and feel. Oh, lest we forget, parking. Many of the finest locations are hidden, tough-to-spot-while-driving boutiques and Hamptons’ traffic alone is enough to make you blow out your own hair—if you haven’t pulled it out already. Here’s a useful tip: Book early, book now, reconfirm—and, most importantly, allow for travel time and parking. Be sure someone from your camp has printed out the directions or entered your appointment addresses in your phone or GPS. One wrong turn in Hamptons’ seasonal traffic can cost you a good half hour. Incidentally, most of our selections also provide outcall services, not to mention a few that specialize in traveling beauty appointments. Hopefully, we’ve saved you some time and helped you become gorgeous and Hamptons ready.
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Hamptons’ traffic alone is enough to make you blow
SPA 2.0 The Naturopathica Spa in East Hampton prides itself on rebalancing holistic health and has been repeatedly voted best spa in the Hamptons.
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out your own hair—if you haven’t pulled it out already. If you’re having a slew of services or a major day of beauty that can bypass all the travel concerns, then consider the East End’s true full-service beauty spot with the most “it” factor. 27 Hampton Salon in Southampton can be easily overlooked— until you step in and you’ll instantly realize why it’s frequented by some heavy-hitting fashion and media boldfaced names. The salon has Fifth Avenue richness inhabited by even warmer, gracious manners. Its beautiful, compact space is well designed and provides just the right amount of privacy where needed; after all, we don’t want to eliminate all the buzz. The staff at 27 Hampton Salon is kind and well trained, and the ever-present c o - d i re c to r s , B i a n k a Le f f e r t s a n d Karen Ruggiero, are there to make sure everything happens exactly as you expect it to. There is plenty of parking in the back, with quiet service rooms—waxing, skin care and spray tanning—nestled below the main floor. Add the professional makeup room, color bar nook and a small, yet segregated “man space” and you’ve found a truly gorgeous one-stop shop. The salon’s elite service products (Brazilian Blowout; Goldwell Color) and luxe retail (Oribe, Ouidad, Kérastase and organic Tata Harper) reflect the beach chic philosophy of the Hamptons perfectly. Try on some serious lift serum and a miracle makeup session from their RuLef skincare line and you’ll step out feeling like a bouncy starlet.
When even the helipad is overscheduled in East Hampton and you’re forced to drive to the East End, let ’s star t our beauty guide from the west, as in Westhampton. Despite the unspoken rivalry (snobbery), the Dune Road area and its beach residences in Westhampton are breathtaking. Westhampton Bath & Tennis is a sprawling, surfside jewel; think Waldorf Astoria meets South Beach. Although their Luna Mesa Spa and Salon are separated on the property, their services are prepared for even the most discerning guests—a real treat. The property’s size also permits comfortable wedding parties. About a mile from the surf, Brunetti Salon resides on Westhampton’s Main Street. Headed by salon industry leading educators Mary and Michael Brunetti, their
expertise in all-things hair is an invaluable insurance policy in its own right.
Heading down the Montauk Highway toward Hampton Bays located on another Main Street (you fall in love with all the Americana of the place), you’ll find E Day Spa & Salon, a mid-sized, well-appointed full service boutique that’s known for great work without all the East End hype. Of the many services, it provides Balayage coloring techniques (I highly recommend it), Keratin smoothing, threading and great spa techniques. The E Day Spa & Salon also stocks the in-demand HydroPeptide skincare line (one of my favorites). Remember, since we’re driving, you can send the man in your life to Mario’s Barber Shop because it’s just down the street from E. This is the spot in Hampton Bays for a classic, lightning-fast haircut as well as a traditional hot-towel shave. Come meet the burly and loveable owner, Joe Marino, who comes from a long lineage of barbering masters. Joe also knows everything and everyone in town.
Aside from the great 27 Hampton Salon, Southampton is brimming with beauty talent. Revolve Hair Salon is a modern, full-ser vice, hippie-chic and brandconscious newcomer with a cool kids following. True to its craft and planetconscious charities, Revolve creates with Davines Color, Moroccan Oil and Privé products. Owner Alicia Cook and staff are not only great stylists, but can satisfy your more avant-garde impulses as well. New to the area is John Dillon Salon & Day Spa, which provides a full range of services with an accent on keratin smoothing, twisting, hair weaving and extensions. The laws change quarterly on keratin hair smoothing, so call ahead—and find out the latest on this in-the-news technique.
For many locals, Kevin Maple Salon is just the place. A slim stairway off Jobs Lane (pronounced Jōbes) leads you to an open-air, large studio with a welcoming and spacious lounge area. This salon has a classic and chic environment with a seasoned staff to accommodate your
needs. La Carezza is also a notable spa salon within a large space, and I would lean toward the spa services, such as Endermologie (body contouring and circulation) and Hydrotherapy (healing salts, seaweed and essential oils—for men and women). And Ernie is reportedly the best scalp massage therapist around with his use of custom-blended oils targeting your particular needs.
Also in Southampton is Anana’s Day Spa, an award-winning spa for advanced massage/lipo massage, body treatments and micro-dermabrasion skin care. Its large foot spa area is known for one-hour spa pedicures, and Anana’s provides a dry bar (with a view) for post-treatment relaxation. For those demanding “hard wax” Brazilian procedures, they’ve got it. And Anana’s Day Spa also features Yonka skincare products for men.
If your summer digs find you in the center of it all—Bridgehampton, Watermill, Sagaponack or Wainscott—there are plenty of high-end spa and salon options to help you stay fine-tuned. Two boutiques with Manhattan locations have made themselves available for their summer clients, Valery Joseph Salon and Vincent Da Silva at Gil Ferrer Salon, the latter is open year round with plenty of parking. Both salons have received the highest accolades in hair technique as well as salon services. For those used to NYC ’tude, you should be prepared to pay for le printemps de la vie of these two high-caliber salons. If you choose to avoid all the pomp and circumstance and just require great hair at fair prices, try Capelli Hair and Skin, an underground haven of beauty, also featuring a Hamptons classic, Judith Desirée Skin Thérapie.
For those hanging your hats in East Hampton, the choices for maintaining a hair salon regimen are surprisingly slim. M Salon (on the back side of Main Street with public parking) is a smaller full-service salon with master stylists doing notable work with color, keratin smoothing, glamour blowouts, extensions and nails—but it’s not SUMMER 2012
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a tranquil oasis by any means. Located in a quiet upstairs corner is where you’ll find A-Studio Day Spa & Laser specializing in an advanced menu of skin and body esthetics, ranging from classic and prenatal massage, reflexology, lymphatic drainage and laser treatments to Hydradermie Lift facials. Naturopathica Spa prides itself on rebalancing holistic health and has been repeatedly voted best spa in the Hamptons. Look for Red Horse Plaza (with abundant parking) or you’ll zoom right by. With regard to its advanced massage and esthetics techniques, Naturopathica’s philosophy is one that can touch us all. The spa’s founder, aromatherapist and herbalist Barbara Close, is often called “The Formulator” because she merges modern science with ancient ingredients to help find ways to penetrate anti-aging skin delivery in a safer, non-toxic way. A definite plus to the spa’s location is that you can drop the kids off at rock ’ n’ roll bowling across the street. If you like to separate your services, Elegant Touch Nail Spa has you covered with four manicure and three pedicure stations, plus waxing. It’s located near the Newton Lane train station where parking is more manageable—with Bucket’s Deli next door. Across the street you can also find East Hampton Barber, an official landmark and a 75-year staple.
As we head east, Sag Harbor is not only abundant with talent, escaping celebrities and a tad more artsy, you won’t be giving up the glam here. Salon Xavier, owned by Xavier Merat, has a dedicated, veteran staff and an elite following of die-hards. The atmosphere is an open-air woody-loft chic space housing a true full service salon and features a full complement of body treatments including classic massage and Thai bodywork to Shirodhara (a-ma-zing), lash extensions, Brazilian Blowout-branded keratin smoothing, hair extensions, custom facials, 02 Oxygenating treatments, mani/ pedis and more. Many salons carry Rene Futerer products, but Xavier Salon is trained in its healing properties as a hair restorer. Did I mention how nice they were?
Smack in the middle of Sag Harbor’s Main Street there’s Salon 66 (formerly Marty’s Barber Shop, another Hamptons staple). Owner-stylist Jackie Fuchs has earned her master designer status, with an equally
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impressive roster of notable clients and previously owned local salons. A smaller, yet very open studio awaits those in need of a great haircut, color or extensions and includes a large, windowed privacy room. Goldwell Color and GK Keratin Smoothing (one of the safest—and what’s currently on my own hair) are offered. The salon is intentionally pared down to restored modern chic as a place even a man’s man could feel comfortable having his hair colored in. Salon 66 is the perfect solution for those among us who value clean lines and hands-on personal service.
Next up is Montauk, the last stop on our sun-kissed car trip lying at the easternmost point in Long Island. Once referenced as the non-Hamptons Hampton for its working class roots, Montauk is now a highly sought-after (and not inexpensive) refuge from those trying to limit their social calendars, hide from P. Diddy or just remain in pure sleep-beach-drink vacation mode. Montauk’s hospitality venues give you more exercise options for staying in shape, even if you’re only burning calories from the surf to the spa to the surf again. Many people like to reverse the order— staying in Montauk and making cameo appearances in East Hampton.
If you have kids in tow, Gurney’s Inn Resort & Spa is a truly decadent retreatby-the-sea for adults, while the younger set can enjoy the amazing lifeguardprotected beach via the watchful child services staff or the heated indoor or outdoor salt water pools. And if you and yours decide to indulge in a healing spa experience, what could be better than a steam or utilizing the world-class gym with its only-in-the Hamptons Spin center? The Salon has an ocean view and promotes wellness via Rene Futerer products, while the Spa is nothing short of amazing with many of the treatments harnessing what’s right at their doorstep—the sea. With a plush service menu too extensive to list (and equally, wonderfully man-friendly), you should take note that Gurney’s Inn inhabits, according to the website, “the only authentic Thalasso Center in the continental US, utilizing seawater and seawe e d in a marin e e nrich e d environment for therapeutic purposes, both preventative and curative.” With an
oceanfront suite or separate cottage, this is one holiday the whole family can walk away feeling completely on top. I’d highly recommend Gurney’s Inn as a spa/salon staycation apart from your own Hamptons hideaway, even for a few days.
Montauk Yacht Club: In a word, WOW! The MYC, as it’s referred to locally, certainly has incredible activities and sporting venues— tennis, horseback riding, sightseeing, clam bakes, surf lessons, deep sea fishing and more—but it’s focused on seamanship, spa-ing and yachts. What better way to commute to the Hamptons for the season? The Spa Salon treatments are for the discerning, while some massages are perfectly matched to the MYC ’s tennis, yachting and socializing stresses. Start your experience with a pre-season body scrub tissue massage, or French Gommage. Then consider the MYC’s Spa Reflexology or Botanically Charged Body Wrap to heal and seal your bronzed body with calm and moisture upon departure. Male and female city slickers will feel right at home with the Collagen upgrades and Vitamin C infusions. You simply can’t go wrong here. Heaven on Earth, people.
Now for a truly decadent option: I know whom I’m dealing with. That means you, HudsonMOD-ster. If you’re in tip-top, Grade A beauty health and just couldn’t dream of exerting this kind of energy into your overbooked holiday, well, don’t. Let the services come to you. Healing Hands offers mobile masseurs specializing in Swedish, Deep Tissue, Hot Stone and Rain Drop massage therapy and provides “facial parties” for your groups at home. For all around hair and esthetic services, Primp In Home delivers top, vetted talent to your front door. Need to stay lean and stretched? Norma Jean Pilates delivers “on and off shore” services with group studio, one on one or in-home. If you find yourself between injectable procedures, et al www.AmericasTopCosmeticDoctors.com provides worthy recommendations by zip code. Wasn’t that easy? Now all you have to do is show up ready to enjoy your well deserved summer vacation in the Hamptons. And to your beauty and peace of mind, I say, Namaste. Or, if you prefer, ’til next time fellow beach lovers.
MONTAUK SEA, MONTAUK DO The Montauk Yacht Club has tons of activities but it’s focused on seamanship, spa-ing and, yes, yachts.
MAPLE STAPLE Kevin Maple Salon in Southampton sets the bar high with an open-air, large studio with a welcoming lounge area. SUMMER 2012
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THE DETAILS 27 HAMPTON SALON 27 Hampton Road, Southampton, NY 11968, 631.377.3107 www.27hamptonsalon.com
LUNA MESA SALON & SPA 231 Dune Road, Westhampton Beach, NY 11978, 631.288.2500, x2816 www.lunamesaoceanspa.com
BRUNETTI HAIR & BEAUTY 48c Main Street, Westhampton Beach, NY 11978, 631.288.1709
E DAY SPA & SALON 154 West Montauk Highway, Hampton Bays, NY 11946, 631.723.3200 www.edayspaandsalon.com
MARIO’S BARBER SHOP 5 East Montauk Hwy, Hampton Bays, NY 11946, 631.728.9458
REVOLVE HAIR SALON 34 Hill St., Southampton, NY 11968, 631.377.3555 www.revolvehairsalon.com
KEVIN MAPLE SALON 46 Jobs Lane, Southampton, NY 11968, 631.283.8230 www.kevinmaplesalon.co
RETREAT YOURSELF Gurney’s Inn Resort & Spa is a retreat-by-the-sea for adults, while the younger set can enjoy the amazing lifeguard-protected beach.
JOHN DILLON SALON & DAY SPA 16 Hill St., Southampton, NY 11968, 631.283.8383 www.johndillonsalon.com
LA CAREZZA SALON DA SPA
M SALON
43-45 Windmill Lane, Southampton, NY 11968, 631.283.7683 www.lacarezza.com
64 Park Place, East Hampton, NY 11937, 631.324.3036 www.msaloneasthampton.com
ANANA’S SPA 71 Hill St., Southampton, NY 11968, 631.287.9099 www.ananasspa.com
CAPELLI HAIR & SKIN
74 Montauk Hwy, Suite 1, East Hampton, NY 11937, 631.329.2525 www.naturopathica.com
2491 Montauk Hwy, Bridgehampton, NY 11932, 631.537.9545
A. STUDIO DAY SPA & LASER
VALERY JOSEPH SALON
10 Main St., East Hampton, NY 11937, 631.324.6996 www.astudiodayspa.com
2454 Main St., Bridgehampton, NY 11932, 631.537.8967 www.valeryjoseph.com
VINCENT DA SILVA AT GIL FERRER SALON 2044 Montauk Hwy, Bridgehampton, NY 11932 (Bridgehampton Commons) 631.537.5805, www.vincentferrersalon.com
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NATUROPATHICA HOLISTIC HEALTH SPA, RED HORSE PLAZA
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ELEGANT TOUCH NAIL SPA 1 Railroad Avenue, East Hampton, NY 11937, 631.604.5444
EAST HAMPTON BARBER 100 Newton Lane, East Hampton, NY 11937, 631.329.3296
SALON XAVIER
PRIMP IN HOME
1A Bay St., Sag Harbor, NY 11963, 631.725.6400 www.salonxavier.com
212.217.6038 www.primpinhome.com
SALON 66
NORMA JEAN PILATES
66 Main St., Sag Harbor, NY 11963, 631.880.1711
51 Division Street, Harbor, NY 11963 631.235.0303 www.normajeanpilates.com
GURNEY’S INN RESORT & SPA 290 Old Montauk Hwy, Montauk, NY 11954, 631.668.2345 www.gurneysinn.com
AMERICA’S TOP COSMETIC DOCTORS REFERRAL SERVICE
MONTAUK YACHT CLUB
www.americastopcosmeticdoctors.com
32 Star Island Road, Montauk, NY 11954, 888.MYC.8668 www.montaukyachtclub.com
HEALING HANDS 631.618.1839 www.healinghandx2.com
Marco Medrano is Beauty/Grooming Editor for HudsonMOD. He can be reached at marco.medrano@hudsonmod.com
SAINT XAVIER Xavier Merat, owner of Salon Xavier in Sag Harbor, works on Organic Avenue’s Denise Mari.
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www.karlsappliance.com • 888-98-KARLS
Experience Counts V
isiting a Karl’s Appliance Designer Showroom brings the entire shopping experience to an entirely different level. With highly-trained, knowledgeable appliance specialists, flexibility to arrange a personalized appointment or to stop in, competitive pricing and stores that not only display the appliances, but showcase them—when you come to Karl’s be prepared to have an experience! “We work with a lot of designers and builders who make use of our showroom to enhance their clients’ selection process.” says Dan Schwartz, president and CEO of Karl’s Appliance. “It’s a complete design experience when you walk through the doors. You immediately have an idea how the product will look and fit into your own kitchen.” Having been around for more that 70 years, Karl’s Appliance has a long, rich history of making sure each client’s experience is a superior one. With five designer showrooms, Paramus (the newest location), Fairfield, Madison, Orange and Sparta, Karl’s is easily accessible by anyone in the tri-state area. And for those living out of the area, everything that you can find in the designer showrooms you can find on website—www.karlsappliance.com. In an age of online shopping and uninformed, automated and impersonal (almost non-existent) service, Karl’s dares to be different. “All of our appliance specialists go through rigorous training. They can answer any question thrown at them.” he says. “The expertise and positive, professional and no-pressure attitude of our appliance specialists is exceptional.” Karl’s staff knows that creating just the right indoor or outdoor
kitchen can take months. “Planning a new kitchen or remodeling one, it takes time and we can walk you through every step of the process.” Schwartz says. “We have the training, expertise, knowledge, and planning to help you pick out the best products that fit the clients needs and get the desired results.” One of the biggest differences you’ll notice when you walk into a Karl’s Designer Showroom is how the products are showcased throughout the store. Just about every brand of appliance is featured and displayed in real-life kitchen vignettes, which help you to envision the look and feel you’ve always wanted in your own home. Karl’s offers thousands of appliances in numerous color choices and finishes. From the most basic washer & dryer combination to complete customized professional kitchens—indoors and out. They carry the area’s largest selection of prestigious brands like Viking, Sub-Zero, Wolf, Miele, GE Monogram and Thermador – along with leading brand name appliances such as Maytag, GE, KitchenAid, JennAir, Electrolux, Whirlpool and GE Café. So what are Karl’s obstacles? “One of our biggest obstacles is that people look at our designer showrooms and think that the
SUB-ZERO/WOLF LIVING KITCHEN IN KARL’S PARAMUS DESIGNER SHOWROOM prices must be too high. That’s just not the case.” Schwartz says. “We’re very competitive in terms of pricing.” Karl’s is a member of a buying cooperative that purchases $5 billion in appliances each year. “We’re proud to be a member of the largest buying organization in the country which brings you the combined purchasing power of thousands of retail stores nation-wide. This huge buying power is passed along to our customers by means of lower prices every day on the finest name brand appliances in the world,” Schwartz says. It all boils down to the level of service, knowledge and experience provided at Karl’s. In an industry where sales personnel come and go, Karl’s has been successful in retaining their staff. “Many of our Appliance Specialists have been here for two decades, which is quite rare among appliance retailers. In many cases, our customers may go ten years between purchases, but when they come in to replace something, they are coming back to see their original Appliance Specialist.” says Schwartz. After someone purchases a product, if for any reason they need to contact Karl’s, there will be a real person on the other end of the phone. Karl’s Customer Service is one of the best in the industry
with professional, helpful, experienced and knowledgeable staff ready and willing to assist you. Because of the experience a customer receives, Karl’s is given many recommendations and referrals. The most common response to “How did you hear about Karl’s Appliance?” is that they had a friend or family member who shopped here and had a great experience. Service, quality, knowledge, display, savings and flexibility are just some of the reasons that set Karl’s Appliance apart from everyone else. Experience the difference for yourself!
Designer Showroom Locations: PARAMUS FAIRFIELD MADISON ORANGE SPARTA
469 Route 17 South 65 Passaic Avenue 300 Main Street 557 Main Street 10 Main Street
John Nouri’s
Broadway SuperCars
rent by the day NORTH JERSEYS PREMIER EXOTIC CAR RENTAL COMPANY
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COVET Napoleon’s Jeweler
WATCH CRAFT You’ll need a calculator to count the jewels in the Haute Joailliene MarieAntoinette Dentelle.
By Amanda Thorogood
T
here are a handful of companies that boast about their historical lineage, but very few, if any, can claim Marie-Antoinette, the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire, Winston Churchill and Napoleon Bonaparte as happy customers. Breguet’s Swiss luxury watches are a marvel to be sure and have been worn by European royalty and other bold-faced names since 1775. Let’s take a closer look at the Breguet Classique Chronométrie, a classic, yet over-the-top masterpiece. The 18-karat rose gold case, sapphire-crystal case back and lustrous leather band create an unparalleled blend of style and sophistication. Wearing this timepiece will give any man a shot of confidence not easily replicated. And for the ladies, jaw-dropping diamond rings and bracelets are the company’s specialties. Breguet has also designed the head-turning Haute Joaillerie Marie-Antoinette Dentelle. And while the name of the watch alone conjures up images of unattainable elegance, the design takes it one step further. You may need a calculator to keep track of all of the jewels. With hundreds of strategically placed brilliantcut diamonds and an eye-popping 1.3-karat ruby, this watch ain’t messing around. Next time you’re on Madison Avenue, step inside Breguet and be ready to be transported to a c’est magnifique journey through time. Marie-Antoinette? Napoleon? You’ll never be in a retailer with a more colorful—and boast-worthy—client list.
BFF Not for the beach.
WHITE HOT T
his is one pair of earrings you won’t want to wear to beach, lest you slip and one of them is swept away in the summer waves. Made by Cedar Grove, NJ-based Yanina & Co., these gems are the perfect pairing for an exclusive dinner party or gallery opening. These earrings are truly a “one of a kind statement piece for any woman’s jewelry collection,”
says Yanina & Co.’s marketing director Maureen O’Keefe. The stunning pair of White Diamond and 18 Karat White Gold Open Marquise shape earrings is one of the newest editions to the jewelers, whose pieces are all custom with handpicked diamonds. I wonder which opera would do these earrings justice? —Amanda McElroy
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THERAPY
45 MINUTES ON RODEO DRIVE Y
YOU BETTER WORK Bal Harbour Shops retailers mimic the lineup of NYC’s Fashion Week.
Miami’s Shopping Bliss
ou find yourself in Beverly Hills for a day or two, maybe stopping in the City of Angels on the way home from Hawaii or, better yet, Australia, and you decide you want to be super nice (super duper nice) to the man in your life. But where to go? After the requisite al fresco chopped salad/mint julep lunch at The Ivy—how do they cram so many celebrities onto one patio?—you can only spare 45 minutes to find the perfect jaw-dropping present before heading back to the Chateau Marmont to meet friends poolside. Also vital, this particular gift can’t be replicated back home. You want to find something not available at all on Fifth or Madison Avenues or certainly Short Hills Mall. What to do? And the clock is tickin’.
By Amanda Thorogood
M
arc Jacobs. Dolce & Gabbana. Chanel. Gucci. They’re among the brands you’re used to having right at your fingertips. It’s just one of the many perks of living in or close to New York City—my goodness, the shopping. Luckily, even when you’re away for a bit in Miami, these delicious shops are there by your side. They’re all located in the ultra-luxe Bal Harbour Shops, where the store directory closely mimics the lineup of any premier Fashion Week. In recent months, the luxury shopping Mecca’s newest tenants include veteran fashion industry darlings Carolina Herrera and Stella McCartney. Bal Harbour Shops strives to serve as your ultimate vacation shopping experience particularly when paired with a stay at the mesmerizing oceanside resort. Forgot those sandals at home? Not to worry. Stella McCartney has your back. The beautiful mall also boasts a few exclusive retailers not found anywhere in our proximity. As the company’s only US location, Gee Beauty Boutique and the expert staff on hand promise to have you looking runway ready for all your vacation photos. The sleek, white studio provides the ideal atmosphere
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for the unique, sought-after Gee Beauty Boutique signature services, including the Ultimate Oxygen Facial, Gee Beauty Brows and, of course, professional makeup applications. Just one trip to the makeup haven will have you wanting more, and that’s perfectly fine, because there’s a line of retail beauty products tailored to ensure that you maintain your vacation glow long after your plane returns you home. Another Bal Harbour Shops staple has become Oxygene Boutique, providing the latest trends for both fashion-forward mothers and kids. Since its opening, Oxygene Boutique has quickly garnered an impressive celebrity following including doting mothers Kourtney Kardashian and Jennifer López, who never fail to depart the shop without bags full of stunning, red-carpet-worthy options for themselves and the perfect ensembles to make their adorable children the envy of every play date. While we know how easy it is to overpack bags to go on vacation, when you do make it to Bal Harbour, heed our advice: Leave plenty of room in your carry-on for all your purchases. You’re going to need it. Better yet, bring an empty suitcase ready to be filled. Word.
COWBOY UP Battaglia is the place to shop on Rodeo Drive for that one “Wow” piece he’ll be all too happy to wear.
Go directly to Rodeo Drive and make your way to Battaglia, the world famous men’s specialty store. On Rodeo for more than fifty years, not only is Battaglia the oldest store on Rodeo Drive, it’s one of the oldest men’s specialty stores in the world. This is the place to shop for that one “Wow” piece he’ll be all too happy to wear. And according to Battaglia General Manager Dow Thamombhand, the single must-have item in his store is the custom fur-lined leisure jacket. When it comes to outerwear, there’s nothing quite like it on the planet. The jacket will set you back a cool $50,000, but what are a few pennies when he gets the jacket of his dreams? OK, other Rodeo Drive-only options include Patek Philippe, Gearys Beverly Hills, Richard Mille and Kenda Scott. But, all I know is if someone brought me a fur-lined custom jacket from Battaglia, there’s very little I wouldn’t do for them in return. Run to Battaglia, people. It’s on Rodeo Drive for a reason. —Richard Pérez-Feria
BEHOLD
THE
POWER
OF
The power of Belgard® is undeniable. With the widest selection of styles, shapes, colors and textures in the industry, it’s easy to see why so many are drawn to our paver and wall collections. For a free Idea Book or more information on America’s best-selling brand of durable pavers, scan the QR code or visit Belgard.biz.
THE
PAV E R .
GORGEOUS Dynamic Duos By Marco Medrano
There’s something beautifully reassuring about dynamic duos—a best buddy who backs you when you need it. Just as Thelma had Louise, the same can be said for skin care as HudsonMOD picks lines chosen for their unrivaled results and, yes, synergistic simplicity.
La Prairie
La Mer
AmorePacific
Everyone knows the value of precious metals as financial investments, now La Prairie has introduced the absolute pinnacle of science for the most important part of your portfolio, your skin, called Cellular Cream Platinum Rare. By recharging the skin’s electrical balance, platinum greatly improves the absorption of beneficial and costly nutrients and restores your skin’s natural beauty and radiant glow while preserving its supple texture and firm tone. Designed to enhance, this cream represents a very exciting—and significant—advance in skincare.
If you could select three adjectives you’d want from your skincare line, you could do worse than powerful, simple and effective. These words also happen to describe La Mer’s incredible Crème de la Mer, crème régénération intense. Dr. Max Huber, an aerospace physicist, is the founder of La Mer’s “miracle broth” (the basis for La Mer’s products) as he was trying to find something to alleviate the effects he suffered in a lab accident. Dr. Huber’s formula uses a four-month proprietary distillation process combining select ocean vitamins, minerals and sea kelp, which produce powerful energies in skin repair.
This line, known for its potent, anti-aging cell rejuvenation that famously uses highly absorbable Asian botanicals (red ginseng, bamboo sap and green tea leaves derived from the company’s unique-in-the-world, proprietary mineral-rich volcanic ash gardens) strives for a more supple, luxurious you. With more than 140 patents and half a century of research and development, AmorePacific introduces its latest one-two secret weapon, a Time Response Skin Renewal Gel Crème and Time Response Skin Renewal Serum. The cream has moisture stimulating, collagen producing and melanin regulating features (hyperpigmentation), not to mention 24-hour time release. How many products can make your skin feel plump, dewy and gently matte at the same time? Exactly. Its companion serum is a seriously concentrated (unprecedented absorption technology), powerful, patented compound of green tea stem cells, green tea EGCG and green tea saponin. Um, what? Simply put: The serum revives the skin’s hydration process to reduce lines and wrinkles, improve clarity and increase radiance and firmness.
Skin Caviar Liquid Lift is also a product to be excited about and a must-have partner to Cellular Cream Platinum Rare. A dual-chamber of agedefying DNA, marine nutrients and the highest dose ever of golden caviar pearl extracts come together resulting in an extraordinary restructuring lift. Cellular Cream Platinum Rare $1,050 (50 ml/1.7 oz.); Skin Caviar Liquid Lift $500 (50 ml./1.7 fl. oz.) available at Saks Fifth Avenue and www.shoplaprairie.com
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Combined with La Mer’s The Concentrate, a superserum treatment that helps enhance the skin’s natural healing, you’re sure to stop overt signs of aging and trauma. While not exactly brand new to our radar, both the cream (now a large 16.5 ounces) and concentrated serum can be used anywhere on your skin, even under the eyes. Importantly, it’s also a safe, miraculous post nip/tuck skincare treatment. La Mer’s indulgent combo will surely see you through to Labor Day and beyond—regardless of what else is in your anti-aging repertoire. Crème de la Mer $1,800 (16.5 oz.); The Concentrate $275 (1.7 oz.) available at the finest stores and www.cremedelamer.com
Time Response Skin Renewal Gel Crème $450 (50 ml/1.7 fl. oz.); Time Response Skin Renewal Serum $525 (30 ml/1.0 fl. oz.) available at Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman, Sephora and http://us.amorepacific-cosmetics.com
DRIVE
Topless Optional There’s nothing quite like the feeling of sitting behind the wheel of an impossibly sexy convertible. The power. The feel. The bragging rights. Yes, driving any of the cars below rivals anything you’ll experience on four tires. Anything. In honor of driving-with-the-top-down season, HudsonMOD investigated the five hottest convertibles right now. Is it too soon to call Santa for an early Christmas gift? HOT WHEELS The Bentley Azure T is as luxurious as it is beautiful.
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ROLLIN’ The Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe is quite possibly the world’s perfect automobile.
The Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe is quite possibly the perfect automobile: Aesthetically stunning, powerfully built, impeccable credentials. Per-fect. The Lamborghini Murcielago LP650-4 Roadster isn’t only the sexiest convertible on our list of sexiest convertibles, but it’s also the fastest, topping off at 205 mph. Another ‘Wow’-mobile is the Ferrari F430 Spider. The Spider can go from 0 to 60 in an incredible 4.1 seconds. Talk about a perfect get-away car. How about the James Bond-worthy Aston Martin DB9? This baby tops out at a perfectly reasonable 190 mph. There’s no getting around it. The Bentley Azure T is a gorgeous, sophisticated machine. A little more refined than the rest of this bunch, it’s as luxurious as it is beautiful.
We could of course tell you that all of these cars have top-of-the-line engines, suicide doors and over-the-top posh interiors, but that’s not what’s most important to you, is it? It boils down to the feeling—you know the one—when the key in the ignition is turned and you first hear the engine roar. That’s the ticket. These beautiful specimens will run in the $300,000 to $550,000 price range, depending on a whole bunch of factors. But can you put a price on this kind of luxury? Fast, roomy and total turn-ons, these vehicles are ready and waiting for you. After all, ’tis the season. —Amanda McElroy
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SUMMER GETAWAYS
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BEACH
VILLAS
THE SANCTUARY
WATER HAVE MERCY The AMG automotive inspired “Black Series” 50’ Marauder cigarette boat mimics the style of a Mercedes-Benz.
Smokin’ N
othing evokes a perfect New Jersey summer afternoon like a boat ride in the Atlantic Ocean. Take a deep breath and take in that salty, fresh air. This, dear friends, is going to be a fun afternoon. There’s room for a little adventure in this summer sun. This is Jersey, after all. That’s why we’re craving the undeniable thrill and adrenaline rush that come from feeling the power of a Cigarette boat. These expertly crafted speed machines provide the ability to take the throttle you thrive on (admit it—it’s
true) from the road and drop it in the open water. Enter the AMG automotive inspired “Black Series” 50’ Marauder. At just shy of $1 million, this Cigarette mimics the style, comfort and excitement of a MercedesBenz. Nods to the luxury brand are apparent throughout the intricate design, including the Mercedes-Benz color-matched black and white exterior and Italian imported Alcantara upholstery. Here’s the thing: It doesn’t get much more luxe than this.
But when talking C i g a re t te s , t h e re ’s only one question people want to know: How fast does it go? At 125 miles per hour, the Marauder will have you forgetting the stresses you left back on shore as you watch the coastline disappear with each wave the boat passes over. Let’s get windblown hair. This much fun is worth a few tangles. This ain’t no clam bake, folks. This is serious summer action. —Amanda Thorogood
LUXE LEASE So you don’t want the kind of awesome responsibility of baby-sitting a massive yacht for your occasional aquatic trips. That’s perfectly understandable. But, you (and your family) shouldn’t be deprived of lasting memories luxuriously spent on the high seas. HudsonMOD finds some options to get you off dry land. —Amanda Thorogood
O’MEGA Voyage past the picturesque coast of Greece in grand style aboard the O’Mega. Created with the ultimate VIP in mind, the O’Mega comes fully staffed with room for more than 30 guests to float comfortably on the blue water. Between sunbathing on the upper deck, unwinding in the Jacuzzi or spending the night in one of the 16 cabins on board, the hardest part of your trip may be the realization that the yacht isn’t yours to keep. A one-day rental of the O’Mega costs $99,000.
EXCELLENCE III Expectations are set high when you board a 188-foot yacht with the monogram Excellence III. But high expectations or not, this one will blow you away. With all the amenities of a high-profile resort, the Excellence III provides gorgeous views of the tropical Caribbean. Stocked with wave runners, kayaks and a complete gym, the Excellence III makes it easy to enjoy the life you’ve earned. Renting the Excellence III starts at $450,000. 74
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NORTHERN BELLE “Belle” embodies the elegance and charm of the quintessential yacht charter.
BELLE Not unlike a great bottle of French red, there are some yachts that seem to only get better with age. Few understand that more than the experts at Vintage Yachting Club, who meticulously maintain a fleet of luxury yachts that can be rented for an afternoon gala, late-night wedding or weeklong hiatus. Based at Liberty Landing Marina on the Hudson until June 20 and again from September 10 through October 30, the 77-foot Belle embodies the elegance and charm of the quintessential charter. Member rates and charter information are available through info@vintageyachtingclub.com.
Enjoy Our New Prix Fixe Lunch Menu. Happy Hour Specials Monday-Friday 405 Eisenhower Parkway, Livingston, NJ 07039 973.758.1111 • www.lithosnj.com
FOOD + DRINK
THE PERFECT MOJITO Rarely has the national drink of a country—and make no mistake, the mojito is Cuba’s official cocktail—reflected a culture, a people so perfectly. Vibrant, refreshing, bold and irresistible, mojitos are, like Cuba herself, at once simple and infinitely complicated. Made of just four ingredients (five if you count ice), the trick to the perfect mojito, then, lies squarely on its maker. HudsonMOD, as a delicious public service in this scorching hot season, sought expert help in creating the perfect—and we mean per-fect—mojito. Leo Romero, Son Cubano’s bar manager, shared his recipe and instructions for a can’t-miss mojito with us. My goodness, has a drink ever tasted more like summer? —Erin Dostal
I n g re d i e n t s One whole lime 2 tablespoons sugar 5-8 mint leaves Light Rum (Cruzan or Bacardi) Ice
Instructions Cut the lime into four pieces and toss it into a large, hard plastic cup. Take 5-8 mint leaves (depending on their size and your taste— Romero likes his extra-minty) and toss them into the cup, too. Add in the sugar and muddle it all together (this is the key to the perfect mojito), making sure the lime’s juice is totally squeezed out. Then, fill the cup with ice and add five counts, about a shot and a half in bartender speak, of light rum. Shake thoroughly and serve in a highball glass. ¡Viva Cuba!
DURAN DURAN Brothers Alexander and Edward Duran are co-owners of Son Cubano.
Cuba, Again By Erin Dostal
W
hen Son Cubano’s lease on its trendy Manhattan Meatpacking District location ran out two years ago, the owners looked at a lot of places to set up shop. One, according to co-owner Alexander Duran, was obvious: New Jersey. Having grown up in West New York, a town full of Cubans and where Son Cubano now resides, the move was a homecoming for the Duran family. Alex and his brother, Edward, are partners at the buzzworthy restaurant. It makes sense, Alexander says, especially because they’ve always been close. The brothers were born on the same day, two years apart. The restaurant itself is a sight to behold. Son Cubano’s interior is designed to reflect the height of the island’s rich, glamorous past. In one room, guests can experience Havana—where the Duran family traveled and took notes on decorating. The other room, La Vista, is more modern, but still, Alexander says, unmistakably, deliciously, intoxicatingly Cuban. Six nights a week the restaurant doubles as a dance hall. It’s a destination, a fun place to be, even on school nights. “This is a stateof-the-art location that oversees Manhattan,” Duran says. But just because you can let loose at Son Cubano doesn’t mean you can be sloppy, he says. “Don’t come in here with sneakers and torn jeans, because you’re
n ot e atin g h e re ,” h e s ay s , a d d i n g that it’s not about where your outfit is from—Target or Gucci or anything in between—but how you show you care about your appearance, that matters. In Cuba—as in many countries— going out to dinner meant you dressed up. “I just want you to come in here looking your best,” he says. “The women in particular dress to kill here. They dress up looking like a million dollars.” The food at Son Cubano is as unique as its background. The menu isn’t only Cuban inspired, though, it also is Caribbean inspired, meaning there’s a lot of fresh fruit and rich spices involved. The must-get items include the pernil, a Berkshire pork shank slow roasted with corn chorizo, and the Chilean Sea Bass, which Duran describes as simply “incredible.” As children, the Duran siblings grew up in a community full of Cubans, and therefore, lots of delicious, mouth-watering Cuban food. Clearly, something stuck, and the result has been a huge success for the entire family. “It’s funny,” Duran says. “We used to come and throw rocks down here and fish on the pier when we were kids. This used to be all trees and garbage and railroad tracks. I still get goose bumps thinking about it. Having Son Cubano here has been the biggest thrill.” I’m not sure about you, but I’m ready for a pernil and mojito right now. Por favor.
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MOD LIFE
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[BON JOVI’S TICO TORRES]
“I grew up in a completely Cuban household where only Spanish was spoken. I would love to go back to Cuba.”
PAULETTE MARTIN
GRASS IS GREENER “When we moved to Jersey it meant we would have trees and grass.”
It’s His Life M
ore than a decade ago, I met Bon Jovi’s drummer Tico Torres poolside at the chic One&Only Ocean Club in The Bahamas. It was one of those days one tends to remember: Palm trees swaying, cocktails flowing, celebrities chatting. And from the moment we met, it was nonstop laughter. As Cubans, we were trading jokes and telling stories—things our people do quite well, thank you very much—and the small group that had assembled around us seemed genuinely captivated by our mojito-infused chatter. It was a good day. Tico Torres is a lot of things—impressive things—but at his core, he’s a Jersey tough guy who’s a great father and a damn good friend. Lest anyone forget, he also happens to be a revered rock ’n’ roll superstar as well as a globally celebrated artist who’s been married a time or two to ridiculously gorgeous women (see Eva Herzigova), enjoys frequent rounds of golf and has been known to fire up a fine cigar now and again. To paraphrase Bon Jovi’s smash hit: It’s his life. No doubt. HudsonMOD caught up with Señor Torres and asked him if he would answer ten things we wanted to know right now. He said yes. And we laughed a lot. Again. —Richard Pérez-Feria
What does luxury mean to you?
Tell me a secret.
Luxury means the freedom to travel the world and gain incredible perspective and appreciate how fortunate all of us are to live in the US.
I’ve never told anyone this story but a few years back Bon Jovi was the headliner of the Royal Variety Show with Queen Elizabeth in attendance and in the receiving line after the show, the queen leaned in to me and said, “I watched you and I can’t believe you weren’t tired playing the drums.” Everyone just looked at me in shock that the queen of England was actually speaking to me. I loved it.
Would you rather be a rock star, celebrated artist or golf junkie? Choose one. Celebrated artist. Art transcends all ages and barriers. Music is segregated by genre whereas art is much more expressive and universal.
Describe your perfect day. Breakfast with my son before taking him to school, play a round of golf, pick up my son at school and play with him before dinner, paint and enjoy a good cigar.
How Cuban are you?
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What does New Jersey mean to you?
What has been the happiest moment in your life?
I was born in Manhattan at St. Vincent’s Hospital so when we moved to Jersey when I was a kid, that meant we would have trees and grass. It was great.
We didn’t grow up with much of anything and I remember the first air conditioner my family purchased and how crazy happy I was. We used to place ice cubes in front of a fan to cool off so the new a/c was unbelievable.
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Very. I grew up in a completely Cuban household where only Spanish was spoken. I would love to go back to Cuba.
What have you ever learned the hard way? Not to be afraid. Fear isn’t real; it’s an emotion. That took me a long time to learn.
If you could change one thing about the world, what would that be? The way we’re killing the Earth. It’s shameful. I’m trying to do what I can but I think it has to become a priority for all of us.
Is Bon Jovi ever retiring? I don’t know. I don’t think so. Bon Jovi has been extraordinarily blessed for 29 years. As a band, we’re stable; we’re brothers, actually—I liken it to being in a sexless marriage [Laughs].
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