VOL. 30
JOHNERIC HOME TH E PREMIER RE A L ESTAT E A N D L I F EST Y L E M A GA Z I N E
DC | VA | MD
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MAY | JUNE | 2015
ELEGANT SPACES
CONFIDENCE AND INTEGRITY WITH
JE JOHN ERIC R E A L E S TAT E
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JOHN ERIC +1 703 798 0097 john@johneric.com johneric.com
A NAME YOU KNOW AND TRUST.
WASHINGTON | VIRGINIA | MARYLAND
1206 30th Street, NW | Washington, DC 20007 C: 703.798.0097 | O: 202.333.1212 | E: john@johneric.com | www.johneric.com
CONTENTS
22 COVER STORY
The 2015 DC Design House offers elegant outdoor entertaining spaces
14 | DETAILS
Different takes on gardening sets
15 | JOHN’S FAVORITES
Newton Unfiltered Chardonnay, The Mandarin Oriental Spa and Orangetheory Fitness are a few of this month’s highlights
18 | DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT Highlighting Darryl Carter
19 | CULTURE
Take in bonzais at the National Arboretum and learn how river cities have shaped landscapes at Dumbarton Oaks
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10 DESTINATIONS
Chicago is our kind of town
20 | DESIGN NEWS
Thomas Moser returns to DC
26 | CALENDAR
Upcoming events in Washington D.C.
27 | DC FUN FACTS National Parks edition
28 | MIXOLOGY
Trees and blossoms are in full bloom and it’s time to gear up with cocktails ready to celebrate summer
42 | BUZZ
The news that all of Washington is talking about
43 | BLACK BOOK
Gorgeous Tokyo gardens not to be missed
44 | DIPLOMACY
A chef challenge, dancing the night away and Alan Choo comes to the Embassy of Singapore
40 | MONEY & FINANCE
The Castle and Moat series continues with a focus on wealth coordination
Cover photo by Angie Seckinger
30 FOODIE
Chef Jocko celebrates the summer garden with squash salad, roasted cauliflower, lomo saltado and goat cheese cake
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46 | TECH
Mother’s Day technological treats
HOME TRENDS
Home Staging - Putting your home in the spotlight
36 | STYLIST
Stock up on seasonal essentials & Wear printed pants with style
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CONTRIBUTORS
Charles M. Tappan, Jr., Before joining Republic National Distributing Company LLC,
Joaquin “Jocko” Fajardo, has been in the
Charles worked in finance, as a broker on Wall Street and as an equity trader. He decided to
Capitol area for over 12 years. Jocko was educated
make the leap into the Hospitality industry in 2011 while looking for the fountain of youth,
at the London Cordon Bleu and The Culinary
and since then he has worked as a bartender at some of the best hotels and restaurants in
Institute of America. Working in the homes of
Washington, DC, including Blue Duck Tavern at Park Hyatt and the Jose Andreas Think
celebrities, politicians, CEO’s and American
Food Group. Not only is he a member of the US Bartender’s Guild and DC Craft Guild,
elite, Jocko combines a flair for the creative in his
but he is highly decorated in the mixology community.
cooking. “I live for fresh, delicious, colorful and
Kristina Messner is a writer and award-winning communications professional who works
hearty cooking.
with clients in an array of technology markets, from emerging technology to consumer electronics, government IT, defense and homeland security.
David Brown became a pioneer of design in
some of DC and Virginia’s most up-and-coming Marc Schliefer has been in the financial planning business since 1978, when he joined
neighborhoods. As an executive with Moët
Equity Planning Institute, Inc. He became President of Equity Planning Institute, Inc. in
Hennessy Louis Vuitton & Valentino, he has been
1996. With over 33 years of practicing financial planning, Marc has worked mainly on
fortunate to travel extensively across the United
individual financial planning and counsels clients on all aspects of their financial life.
States and Europe through his work. David’s eclectic style and appreciation for architecture is
Sherry Moeller, co-founder and principal of MoKi Media, was a previous editor in chief
reflected in his work thanks to his unique cultural
of Capitol File magazine/Niche Media covering politicians, celebrities, fashion, travel,
perspective gained through his travels.
hospitality and lifestyle in Washington, DC and around the country. She now specializes in public relations for interior design, architecture and hospitality clients, among other luxury brands.
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JOHNERIC HOME 速
Publisher JOHN ERIC Managing Editor ANGELA CASEY Senior Editor-at-Large LK Creative Director HILLARY BROADWATER Photography SEAN SHANAHAN
CONTACT EDITORIAL e-mail | angela@johneric.com ADVERTISING phone | 703.798.0097 ONLINE www.johneric.com facebook | johnericwdc twitter | thejohneric
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EDITOR ’S LET T E R Throw open the windows. Pull out the shorts and t-shirts. Fire up the grill. Enjoy cocktails on the terrace and take a leisurely afternoon stroll along the canal. Finally, Washington gets to celebrate the arrival of the warm weather! This month, John Eric Home celebrates warm weather and the outdoors. We revel in summer styles with our “Stylist” features, providing women with the season’s essentials and men with tips on how to wear the current trend of printed trousers. Master Mixologist Charles Tappan shares his recipes for grand summer cocktails while Chef Jocko brings the garden inside in our “Foodie” feature. Gardens are celebrated throughout the magazine in a variety of our features. “Black Book” reveals the gardens not to miss when traveling to Tokyo, Japan, and “Details” provides different takes on gardening totes. In “Fun Facts,” we are all about National Parks while “Culture” takes in bonsai at the National Arboretum and shows us how river cities have shaped landscapes at Dumbarton Oaks.
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The big news in town, when it comes to home and design, is the DC Design House. Our cover story features this event and catches our readers up on all they need to know about this charmer in McLean, Virginia. Also, in this month’s issue is a great piece on how to stage your home in our “Home Trends” feature. So, sit back. Relax on your outdoor patio in your shorts and t-shirt, and enjoy this issue of John Eric Home.
John Eric John Eric Publisher, Principal and Realtor
One of my favorite Restaurants is Rural Society by Chef Jose Garces. See my other favorites on page 13.
DREAM THE FIRST STEP IN CREATING A NEW EXPERIENCE
WHERE EVERY ROOM INSPIRES YOU Turn your home into an experience where you can LIVE, CREATE, RELAX, DREAM and DELIGHT in the things you enjoy most in life. Discover your home’s potential at www.casedesign.com. ADDITIONS | BATHS | EXTERIORS | INTERIORS | KITCHENS
DE STINATI O N S
CHICAGO My Kind of Town...
Very few cities are endowed with Chicago’s inherent sensibilities, diversity and charm. Its Midwestern hospitality infused with a Capone-like rebelliousness coupled with a sense of tradition – it is a unique jewel in the American landscape. The character traits of Chicago lend themselves well to a dynamic food scene spread across the city. For a Foodie, it is not the Windy City but a dream city for culinary affairs. From traditional steak plates to envelope-pushing New American dishes to fusion-styled masterpieces to nosh from back alley food trucks – the gang is all here. This month, we travel to this metropolis on Lake Michigan and enjoy a tour of renowned eating destinations that you should know, if you don’t already. It is said that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. In Chicago, myriad opportunities exist for both a practical and enjoyable morning fuel-up. Whether it is stopping off for pancakes at Nookies, a great local diner in Lincoln Park (2114 N Halsted Street), or grabbing something on Michigan Avenue at King Cafe Gourmet & Go (900 N Michigan Avenue) the city is full of choice.
Perhaps, you are in the mood for a continentalstyled morning treat? Try Hendrickx Belgian Bread Crafter (100 East Walton Street). Their amarena chocolate croissant is pretty amazing and the macaroons are to be devoured. Or, if you would like to stick to Americana while hustling down the street with your cup of joe, make sure to find Interurban Café & Pastry (2008 North Halsted Street). This unassuming, alleyway pickup spot sells
some of the best pastries in town – their pop-tarts. Some of these tasty treats are of a common variety such as cinnamon and brown sugar. Others, have a bit more exotic flare such as pumpkin. Chicago is known for its deep-dish styled pizza. But, pizza is not its only specialty food. In this city hot dogs reign supreme and the variety of choice is staggering. The most classic definition of a Chicagostyle hot dog is an all-beef hot dog on a poppyseed bun topped with mustard, relish, chopped onion, tomato slices, a pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt. Quite a mouthful. Literally. And, while there can be a minor controversy over whether it is better to steam or grill, in a city where the art of hot dog preparation is taken so seriously, you can never go wrong. For a great midmorning snack, we head to the most famous hot dog stand in the area, Gene & Jude’s (2720 River Road, River Grove, IL.) which was chosen as “Best Hot Dog in the Nation” by Rachel Ray magazine. Although, it is not located within the confines of Chicago itself, food aficionados come from far and wide to taste their dogs, which are always plump and extra-beefy. Asking for John Eric Home
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everything gets you mustard, relish, onions and sport peppers. Of course, each order is served with a handful of just-fried hand-cut fries, which come heaped on top. On to lunch! Chicago is probably best-known for its steakhouses and nearly every visitor to Chicago will encounter one of these formidable establishments. Walking down the street you might pass by the original Morton’s of Chicago (1050 N. State Street) or hear talk of the Michael Jordan Steakhouse, situated in the Inter-Continental Hotel (505 N. Michigan Avenue.) You may decide to have lunch or dinner in any one of the city’s storied establishments. David Burke’s Primehouse (616 N. Rush Street) is found in The James Hotel and is the steakhouse to go to if you decide to dine on beef. Chicago magazine has voted their dinner main courses as the best in the city and, when dining there, the reasons for that ranking are abundantly clear. They are excellent. The food and drink, the staff, the ambiance – all are top notch. But, it is not just about dinner here. The restaurant is also quite popular with the lunchtime crowd, offering a large range of menu items that is turning what was formerly primetime into anytime. The lunch menu highlights a Charcuterie Board that includes an assortment of locally-sourced and house-made meats, including a selection of dry-aged options. The most popular burger, the 40 Day Dry-Aged Prime Steak Burker, is on the menu as is the Thin Burker, served with pickles, onions and American cheese. But, David Burke’s is not just about beef. A lobster roll, made with house-made kewpie mayo and celery pickled tomatoes and fish and chips are on offer too. A diverse list of options compliments many choices as, staying true to the steak-centric roots of Primehouse, David Burke’s continues to offer patented dry-aged steaks. Lunch diners can choose between seven different steak options. Between lunch and dinner, stopping by a location with a remarkable view for refreshments is a necessity. The Terrace at Trump fits this bill nicely.
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This terrace, one of the best in the city, showcases iconic views of Chicago’s landscape. Guests take in stunning vistas including the Wrigley Clock Tower, Lake Michigan and the Chicago River. Its restaurant and bar offers a specially crafted menu served alongside a variety of boutique wines and hand-crafted cocktails. It is difficult to find a more professional, knowledgeable and helpful team of mixologists and bartenders anywhere in the city. The Trump menus change to reflect the mood and flavors of the season. Currently, the Ultimate Summer Experience uses the finest and freshest and most interesting ingredients available. This means that exotic drinks, such as The Sacred Lotus, which blends shochu yokaichi mugi, griffard grapefruit liqueur, rooibos tea, lemon juice and rose water, are available that is both a potent and delicious. As is the White Radiance which mixes fonseca porto siroco, griffard apricot liqueur, honey ginger syrup and lemon blood orange ice. Both can be enjoyed while enjoying the weather and gazing upon boats venturing up and down the river.
“What do you want to do for dinner?” is such a common phrase that it is practically banal. In Chicago, dinner is not stale – it can’t be – nearly every stripe of food is represented throughout the city. A fine example of this is Sunda. This restaurant is located within Chicago’s bustling River North neighborhood (110 W. Illinois Street) and features great Asian fare. The food is not pretentious nor is it predictable. And, it certainly is not common. Lemongrass Beef Lollipops are addictive as the diner is transported to Indochina through taste. The Brussel Sprout Salad, the dish that the restaurant is known for, is delicious in its seeming simplicity. The coconut smell of Panang Chicken, passing
by the table, encourages a second or third look at the menu. And, the duck steamed buns? Try those and your heart will be taken. Sunda is a very trendy space, modern in its design and communal in its nature. While it can be loud, it is worth it. The food will keep you coming back for more. As will Chicago. This city is a stunner in the American Midwest. Rich in history, people, culture and food, its streets will always leave you wanting more.
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DETA ILS
Gardening Picnic at Ascot Eco Gardening Tote Set
Apollo 7 Piece Garden Tool Kit – Pink
Keep your tools handy while tending to your flowerbeds. This gardening tote set comes with multiple pockets to hold tools. Made of 600D polycanvas and cotton makes it eco-friendly and durable. The gardening tote includes three stainless tools that have comfortable grip handles. It comes with side pockets for holding snacks and drinks. Designed and assembled in the U.S., the tote set is a must have for gardening enthusiasts.
Gardener’s delight with this 7 piece tool kit. The apron protects clothing while keeping tools together. The hand tools are comfortable and great for digging, planting bulbs, weeding and pruning. Includes: 12” narrow trowel, 12” trowel , 12” rake, 16” x 8” knee pad, 8” pruning shears, apron , gloves. $1.00 from this purchase is being donated to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
Uncommon Goods: Gardner’s Tool Seat
For the woman with the green thumb. This small canvas tote is great for smaller planting and gardening jobs, combining convenience with practicality. Personalize the large exterior pocket with any name. This garden tote set is ideal for working with house plants and potted plants for the porch or patio. Garden tools include 1 each: digging trowel, planting trowel, garden cultivator, all with wooden handles.
Keep the dirt off of your knees and your tools close by with this multi-function gardener’s seat. Combining the features of a tool bag and a folding chair, this handy seat is made of lightweight steel and water-resistant nylon. The bag detaches easily from the frame via hook-and-loop fasteners and has two carrying handles, 21 pockets for different sized tools and a large catch-all interior.
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My Garden Personalized Garden Tote and Tool Set
J O H N ’ S FAVO R ITES
Merry Edwards Winery
2013 Sauvignon Blanc, Russian River Valley 2013, $32.00 |This is one of my go to wines for spring and summer 2015. This wine has grapes from not one but six diverse sites in Russian River Valley this wine is rich with floral notes like orange, lemon, white pear but also has just a hint of minerality. It finishes with a balance of zesty crispness with weight and richness. http://www.merryedwards.com/
The Miami Beach EDITION
Ian Schrager’s latest hotel is the latest hot spot the mid-section of sizzling Miami Beach. The property has a low-key but whimsical white and gold interior and not one but two Jean-Georges Vongerichten restaurants. This property also features two swimming pools, spa, ice-skating rink and a bowling alley. If you are heading to Miami, check this out. Rooms start at $295.00 a night. http:// www.editionhotels.com/miami-beach
Footwear
Gommino Driving Shoes , $445 https://www.tods.com
Rural Society
Rural Society by nationally renowned master of Latin cuisine Chef Jose Garces is a contemporary Argentine steakhouse. Rural Society is like walking into a sophisticated Buenos Aires restaurant that is both rustic and luxurious. http://dc.ruralsocietyrestaurant.com
HOM E TR E N D S
HOME STAGING
Putting Your Home In the Spotlight
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As the real estate market becomes more competitive and the economy gets stronger, this is the perfect time to put your home on the market. Make it a priority today to complete those little projects, invest a little money and be prepared to get a big return. There has never been a better time to sell, profit and move on up to a more fabulous home. In order to be successful, you must of course listen to your realtor, but you also need to position and present your home in the best light. It is essential that your home is the one on the block that potential buyers don’t forget. Today, more homeowners are making the decision to sell. Marketing and home aesthetics play a more significant role now more than ever before. The most successful and profitable sales are a result of an educated realtor who also understands the importance of home staging. Many realtors are now partnering with designers or staging companies while others are utilizing their inherited skills to help their clients make educated decisions to contribute to the selling of their homes. In an effort to be the most competitive, you must quickly accept the “less is more” philosophy. The first step in getting ready to sell is de-clutter, de-clutter, de-clutter. Potential buyers shouldn’t be overwhelmed by your things, but rather impressed by your home. Counters and other surfaces should be kept clear and any furniture that isn’t needed stored away. Any personal effects such as family photos, mementos and framed degrees should all be packed away; anything that’s a link to the current owner should be avoided. Buyers want to imagine themselves in the house, so the more the house is a blank slate, the easier it is for them to dream. As our living spaces continue to get smaller, oversized furniture should be eliminated and minimalist styles should be used. Utilize glass and acrylic in your furniture and accent choices for nearly invisible storage and décor. When choosing pieces for your room, you must take into consideration how they relate to the size and scope of your space. Watch that the scale is appropriate -- does the ceiling dwarf your sofa? Is it too bulky in a narrow room? How do your furniture pieces relate to each other? Is there a complementing variation in size and shape, or is that coffee table way too small and square for that sprawling sectional? A good design is always achieved when each of these elements are balanced. To maximize limited space, make your room and furniture serve dual purpose. In a small office/guest room or even a studio apartment, a couch may double as a bed. Your living or dining room can act as an office when you’re not entertaining by turning a wardrobe or cabinet into
a mini computer station that’s hidden when the doors are closed. When arranging small areas of interest or artfully grouping objects either on a shelf, a mantel or even a coffee table, odd numbers always work best. The randomness of this type of vignette makes for a more natural look. For an inexpensive and quick fix, update your home with paint. Two coats of paint can give your space a whole new, rejuvenated feel. Although you love that dark marsala accent wall, some buyers may not. A fresh coat of bright, neutral paint will not only enlarge the house and make it feel airy and more spacious, but it will also help buyers with their vision (there’s that blank slate again). To complement the neutral house, a few wellplaced bright pops of color will bring the decor together. Bright throw pillows or a canary yellow kettle on the stove will be noticed as soon as you enter the room and will stick in buyers minds once they leave. Fresh flowers are another great idea, and single flower arrangements are most effective. Warm lighting and well-placed mirrors can make your home feel bright, inviting and even bigger. Mirrors placed over fireplaces and along hallway walls will make rooms appear larger than they are. Contemporary table lamps and overhead lighting like chandeliers and modern sconces will brighten rooms and add style to your décor. Swap out your spindly chrome ‘90s chandelier for an oversized statement orb for an instant contemporary feel. Lastly, if you are looking for the greatest financial gain, invest in your kitchen. First, consider replacing your backsplash. There was definitely a time when an accent backsplash that cut a kitchen wall in half was the highlight of any modern kitchen. Today, create a timeless look by refreshing your backsplash with a herringbone pattern or subway tiles that extend all the way up the wall to the ceiling. This will create an illusion of a larger and brighter kitchen. Next, update the kitchen cabinets. It wasn’t that long ago that maple and oak stained cabinets were all the rage but that time has passed. Thankfully, a fix can involve nothing more than a coat of paint - white or barely-blue cabinetry has proven to stand the test of time. To be successful and make certain your home is the beauty on the block, it is essential that you step outside your comfort zone and take a look at your space from a new perspective. Accepting neutrality, maximizing space planning, decluttering and making mini updates can make the difference in you selling or sitting on the market. Take the lead now and utilize these staging techniques to successfully sell your home. John Eric Home
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DE SIGNER SP OT LIGH T
D a r r yl Ca r t e r Unsurprisingly, for a native Washingtonian, Darryl Carter started out as a lawyer before discovering his true calling as a decorator and furniture designer. In addition to collections for Benjamin Moore and The Urban Electric Company, Darryl has authored two highly-rated books on design. In 1998, he established his own Embassy Row design firm, and has been featured in Elle Decor, Architectural Digest, and Veranda. Recently, the top designer opened a home decor shop and studio in DC’s Shaw neighborhood. The belief of Darryl Carter is that the home is about the individual’s lifestyle. Just as no two people are exactly alike, neither should any two environments be the same. His design centers around the client. One of the outstanding hallmarks of his design is its longevity, which is produced by honoring classical elements of the past and present, from the modern to the antique.
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CU LTU R E Dumbarton Oaks River Cities: Historical and Contemporary 2015 Garden and Landscape Studies Symposium May 8 – 9, 2015
Organized by Thaisa Way, Dumbarton Oaks senior fellow and professor of landscape architecture at University of Washington. Resilience and adaptability are key elements of viable urbanism. But how have these concepts been understood historically? And how do they shape the design and stewardship of urban landscapes today? The dynamic relationships between cities and their rivers, a landscape of potentially critical adaptability and resilience, is the focus of “River Cities: Historical and Contemporary.” Building on the emergence of urban humanities and urban landscape history, the talk proposes to consider the urban river as a citymaking landscape deserving of careful reading and analysis: past, present, and future.
Exhibit: Art Blooms: Satsuki Azalea Bonsai May 22 – June 1, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm National Bonsai & Penjing Museum National Arboretum
Don’t miss these stunning bonsai, miniature in form, but covered with multicolored, full-sized flowers. Late-blooming Satsuki azaleas have been hybridized in Japan for hundreds of years; many of the museum’s azalea bonsai were started from cuttings collected in Japan in the last century. This annual exhibit showcases the most spectacular examples in a formal display. Based on individual bloom times, trees may be on display in the outdoor pavilions before and after the week-long indoor exhibit.
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DE SIGN NE WS
THOS. MOSER RETURNS TO WASHINGTON, DC
Thos. Moser celebrated its return to Georgetown in March in a new 5,500-square-foot showroom located at 1028 33rd Street, NW. Its Handmade American Furniture is displayed as pieces of art in a gallery setting. The historic building features stone walls along three sides providing a rustic backdrop for Thos. Moser’s signature chairs, tables, stools and chests, among other fine solid wood furniture, as well as its newest contemporary lines including the award-winning Cumberland Collection designed by Adam Rogers. During a Made in America-themed event, Tom Moser greeted more than 200 loyal customers, media members and politicos. Support included attendance by Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and Congressman Bruce Poliquin, all Congressional members from the company’s home state of Maine. After an introduction by Moser’s son Aaron Moser, who heads up the Moser Contract Division, Collins and King addressed the crowd, telling stories about Tom Moser and wishing him well on his return to Georgetown on the occasion of his 80th birthday. Members of the Thos. Moser team from Maine, including CEO Bill McGonagle, CBO Susan Davis, and manager of its flagship showroom in Freeport, Steve Wyman, also attended the evening festivities. In a separate weekend event, Tom Moser signed copies of the new Thos. Moser Spring/Summer commemorative catalog. Master Craftsman Warren Shaw demonstrated the making of the iconic Thos. Moser Continuous Arm Chair.
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Photos courtesy of Thos. Moser Thos. Moser’s new Washington, DC Showroom
JE JOHN ERIC R E A L E S TAT E
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CONFIDENCE AND INTEGRITY WITH A NAME YOU KNOW AND
TRUST
1206 30th Street, NW | Washington, DC 20007 C: 703.798.0097 | O: 202.333.1212 | E: john@johneric.com | www.johneric.com
TRE N D IN G
2015
DC DESIGN HOUSE
OFFERS ELEGANT OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING SPACES
With 28 beautifully-designed rooms, the annual showhouse benefiting Children’s National presents something for everyone, especially for warm weather enjoyment By Sherry Moeller
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Photos by Angie Seckinger Country Casual’s front porch design includes a glider and custom welcome mat. Right: Charles Owen of Fine Landscapes collects French statuaries, such as this horse trough and well pump, that he incorporates into his landscape and hardscape designs.
The 8th Annual DC Design House, which is open until May 10th, offers an array of design inspiration in the new farmhouse-style home in McLean, Virginia (on the market for $4.895 million.) Built by Artisan Builders and designed by Harrison Design, the 8,860-square-foot stone house at 956 Mackall Farms Lane features five bedrooms, five full bathrooms and three half baths. With impressive interiors that include formal living and dining rooms flanking the entryway, a stone-lined back gallery leading to the library on one end and the back stair hall on the other, the main floor is designed in an L-shape with the butler’s pantry, breakfast room, kitchen and family room along the back to the left. The upper level offers a master suite with sitting room and opulent bath, a laundry room decked out with some bling by the designer, two guest suites and a nursery off the second stair hall that leads to the entry foyer. The lower level currently features a bistro with bar, central art aficionado lounge and den with fireplace. Most furnishings in the DC Design House spaces are for sale with a portion of the proceeds going to the sole beneficiary of the event, Children’s National Health System. There are also boutiques with home goods, jewelry, clothing and more to peruse and purchase, also with a portion of sales going to Children’s. French Inspired Statuary Among the stars of this showhouse, which has been open since April 11, are the outdoor spaces beginning with the rustic statuaries installed by Charles Owen of Fine Landscapes. Owen collects antique garden ornaments on his trips to France and installed a 19th century French stone horse trough and well pump to the right of the front porch of this Virginia home. “The landscape and hardscape materials for the home have been chosen to complement the farmhouse-styled architecture,” Owen says. The front also includes a low wall and a paver auto court in brick, which is true to the époque contemplated for the house. Along the side yard, Owen added Pennsylvania flat stack fieldstone walls with central waterfall as well as a series of garden walks, brick patio and firepit terrace to provide circulation and intimate outdoor living rooms. “The horticulture includes a classically assembled palette of deer resistant plants that offer complementary color and texture,” he adds. Front Porch Charm For the second year, Country Casual has been part of the DC Design House. This year, the team of Nicolette Powell and John LeMieux designed the furnishings for the front porch. Powell, who specializes in detailed design concepts to fit clients’ styles and budgets, and LeMieux, who has devoted three decades to the landscape industry creating and structuring exterior living spaces, created a warm and welcoming front porch using Country Casual’s teak furniture that enhances the home’s natural fieldstone finish. Finely-crafted rockers, a glider, chairs and tables as well as a side buffet along the porch present a restful retreat at the entry. Six-foot long teak planters line the brick courtyard. “We took a traditional approach to the front porch with teak furniture that lasts for generations,” LeMieux adds. John Eric Home
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Indoor-Outdoor Loggia “The loggia can be enjoyed no matter the season,” says Nancy Colbert of Design Partners, who created this outdoor space. “It was designed to be a natural conduit between the family room and patio beyond.” Colbert’s room features a “casual sophistication” using a green wall and a seating area as focal points. A custom fabricated fire table made of locally-mined granite grounds the lounge seating, while greenery provides both privacy and asymmetrical balance. “The loggia projects the same sophistication as that of an interior space,” Colbert adds, by incorporating a Janus et Cie sectional with Lee Industries slipper chairs, a Century Furniture concrete bench, and Theodore Alexander faux bois chandelier. Patio Perfect As a first time DC Design House designer, Skip Sroka of Sroka Design is not new to the showhouse, as he has been a design advisor in the past. In his new role as a design participant, he says, “When I saw this marvelous space surrounded by trees and with the fountain, I was instantly drawn to it. I couldn’t imagine anything better than to come home to a wonderful garden area like this and have dinner al fresco.” His inspiration for the space was to be able to enjoy the outdoors from spring through fall so he started with a traditional design for the pavilion that incorporated proportions of the house, but also added elements of “Hollywood Regency and Palm Beach.” Sroka opted for Italian-style gardens for greenery rather than flowering plants, as well as moss balls on pedestals and hydrangeas for the table. Classic blue and white fabrics and finishes create a modern space. “I love the crispness of the white textures highlighted by the fresh blue,” Sroka adds. For more information about the 2015 DC Design House, go to http://www.dcdesignhouse.com.
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Nancy Colbert of Design Partners created a backyard sanctuary with her casual yet sophisticated loggia. Blue and white are the primary colors of the Sroka Design patio that brings a bit of Palm Beach to McLean, Virginia.
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C A LEN DAR National Cathedral Flower Mart May 1-2, 2015 Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The National Cathedral Flower Mart is Washington, DC’s annual outdoor festival for garden enthusiasts and families that features annuals, perennials, landscape exhibits, Olmsted Woods and Garden Tours, musical entertainment, gourmet food, a book sale, and children’s activities such as a rock wall, moon bounce, mini-Ferris wheel and a century-old restored carousel. Held on the grounds of the Washington National Cathedral since 1939, the Flower Mart is sponsored by the volunteer organization, All Hallows Guild. The Georgetown Garden Tour May 9, 2015, 10 a.m-5 p.m. Tour Starting Point: Christ Church, 31st and O Streets, NW Washington, DC
The Georgetown Garden Tour is an annual selfguided tour of eight private gardens, sponsored by the Georgetown Garden Club. This event is a great way to explore the residential streets of one of Washington, DC’s most famous neighborhoods. The tour includes an afternoon tea.
DC Yoga Week Yoga on the Mall May 9, 2015, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
More than a thousand yoga enthusiasts and first-timers will gather to practice on the Mall at Constitution Gardens, near the Vietnam Memorial. The closest Metro Station is Foggy Bottom. The Green Festival June 5-7, 2015 Friday, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sun, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Location: Washington Convention Center Admission $11 when purchased online $15 at the door
The Green Festival is a consumer show in Washington, DC focusing on sustainability education and green products and services. More than 300 exhibitors will showcase a wide range of products, services and resources in all things earth-friendly – from organic food, fashion, health, children’s toys and pet care to eco-travel, energy and transportation. Three days of activities, workshops and special presentations educate the public on healthy lifestyle choices, including The Green Kids Zone, where youngsters can enjoy recycled crafts and educational exhibits, culinary workshops featuring delicious vegetarian cuisine, a robust schedule of yoga classes, an organic food court and beer and wine garden.
Tours of the Tall Ship in Alexandria Alexandria Tour Dates: June 10-12, 2015 Times: Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursday and Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Final boarding begins at 3:30 p.m. Location: Alexandria City Marina Tickets: Free timed tour tickets are required.
This summer, French tall ship Hermione will dock in Alexandria, Virginia for three days as part of a commemoration of Marquis de Lafayette’s historic voyage to America in 1780. Alexandria will host free tours, while celebrating its French connections with lectures, a historic ball, and special French inspired menus at the local restaurants. Visitors can take part in pier-side activities including historic shipbuilding demonstrations, costumed characters and a traveling exhibition that tells the story of L’Hermione, its reconstruction, and Lafayette’s role in the American Revolution.
D C FU N FACTS
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There are 397 units in the National Park System named from A to Z – Abraham Lincoln Birthplace (KY) to Zion (UT) -- and more than 280 million people visit them each year.
The largest living things in the world are in National Parks -- Sequoia trees -- and the world’s largest carnivores -- Alaskan brown bears.
Russell Cave National Monument (AL) has an almost continuous record of human habitation going back to 7000 B.C.
Two National Parks are located north of the Arctic Circle -Gates of the Arctic National Park (AK) and the Kobuk Valley National Park (AK).
The largest National Park is Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve (AK) at more than 8.3 million acres. The smallest National Park unit is part of a part of an acre in downtown Philadelphia, the Thaddeus Kosciuszko National Memorial.
6 The house used by poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, 18371882, while he taught at Harvard is the same house George Washington used as his headquarters during the siege of Boston, 177576 (Longfellow National Historic Site, MA).
M I XOLOGY
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Tiki Toast glassware:
Tiki Mug
ingredients:
1 oz. Soho Lychee Liqueur .25 oz. Orgeat Syrup .5 oz. Lemon Juice 2 Strawberries 2 dashes of bitters 1.5-2 oz. Wheat Beer Crushed Ice Sliced Strawberries and Lemon Peel with Grated Nutmeg garnish:
In a shaker combine Lychee Liqueur, strawberries, orgeat syrup, bitters and lemon juice and Ice. Muddle, shake to a 13 count and strain over crushed ice. Top off with a wheat beer, garnish serve and enjoy. directions:
The Tiki craze, born of the tropics and their style in the 1930’s, has seen many flows and ebbs over the history of time. However, those traditional tropical spirits still seem to hit the spot, especially in the summer. This summer, keep the heritage alive and begin with classic citrus and orgeat syrup to build the foundation of a classic tiki cocktail. In addition to the rich vanilla, orange and citrus tones, lychee liqueur and strawberries add depth and floral notes, further enhancing exotic overtures of the cocktail. Finally, a wheat beer and bitters bring the touching balance to a light cocktail made for refreshment. This summer, make this fun cocktail and raise a Tiki Toast to celebrate a beautiful day. Story:
Blending In glassware:
Goblet
A Full Count glassware:
Collins Glass
ingredients:
ingredients:
1 oz. Malibu Black 1 oz. Malibu Spiced 1oz. Luxardo Maraschino 3 oz. Passion Fruit Juice .5 oz. Lime Juice 12 mint leaves 1.5 – 2 cups Crushed ice
garnish:
garnish:
Leaved
Lemon Sliced and Mint
In a shaker combine Lychee Liqueur, strawberries, orgeat syrup, bitters and lemon juice and Ice. Muddle, shake to a 13 count and strain over crushed ice. Top off with a wheat beer, garnish serve and enjoy. directions:
Green is not only the traditional color of camouflage; it is also the color of mint, one of the greatest summer seasonings in all cocktails. Enhance a great day on the beach with a mint based cocktail. Traditional hurricane cocktails consist of a lot of passion fruit juice and rum. This cocktail is no exception. Two flavors of Malibu rum provide a great layer of sweet, coconut, and light island spices. However, Luxardo maraschino, a cherry brandy liqueur, helps to add a little bit of tart and bite to the cocktail. Lots of passion fruit and light amounts of lime help to balance the sweetness of the Malibu and Luxardo without creating a cocktail reminiscent of a traditional sour. Finally, mint and crushed ice are added, two things that simply feel perfect to complement a gorgeous summer day. The drink is a little green, but camouflage is supposed to be! Whether camo-ing up a rainy or sunny day often times the best way to do it is by Blending In with a great cocktail! Story:
1.5 oz. JP Wiser’s Rye .5 oz. Aperol .75 oz. Cranberry Syrup .25 oz. Lime Juice 3.5 oz. Club Soda
Lime Wheel
In a shaker, combine Rye, Aperol, Cranberry Syrup, lime juice, and ice; shake to a 13 count and strain over ice into a Collins glass. Top of with club soda, garnish, serve and enjoy! directions:
Summertime is about baseball. Great friends get together and watch great teams play the great American pastime. When the bases and count are full, and someone needs just one hit, call in a great whiskey cocktail -- especially one with rye -- one of the favorite spirits of our American forefathers. To keep it light and refreshing, semi-sweet and semi tart cranberry syrup effortlessly melds in with the whiskey and soda to develop a drink that is easy and smooth and flavorful. A touch of aperitif makes this a cocktail that can be had several times without worrying about the lights going off like the end of a night game. Made to match the colors of the team from the Nation’s Capital, the Full Count is perfect for that special time when only a home run or a strike out will do. Story:
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F O OD IE
Summer Fare
Roasted Cauliflower With Lemon-Parsley Dressing SERVINGS: 4 1 head cauliflower (about 2 lb.), cut into florets, including tender leaves 6 tablespoons olive oil, divided Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper 1 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves 1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Place lentils in small bowl. Cover with cold water and soak 10 minutes; drain. Preheat oven to 425°. Toss cauliflower and 4 Tbsp. oil on a rimmed baking sheet; season with salt and pepper. Roast, tossing occasionally, until tender and golden brown, 25–30 minutes. Meanwhile, pulse parsley, lemon juice, and remaining 2 Tbsp. oil in a food processor until very finely chopped; season with salt and pepper. Toss cauliflower with lemon-parsley mixture and top with lemon zest.
Grilled Summer Squash Salad SERVINGS: 4 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided, plus more for grill 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper 1 pound summer squash or zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch-thick wedges 2 cups mesclun or mixed lettuces 1/4 cup feta or goat cheese, crumbled Prepare grill for medium heat; lightly oil grill grates. Combine onion and vinegar in a large bowl; let sit 5 minutes. Gradually whisk in 3 Tbsp. oil. Season with salt and pepper and set aside. Brush squash with remaining 1 Tbsp. oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill until tender and charred in spots about 3 minutes per side. Let cool slightly and toss with onion and half of vinaigrette. Toss lettuce with remaining vinaigrette in a medium bowl and season with salt and pepper. Divide squash among plates and top with salad and feta.
Lomo Saltado SERVINGS: 8 1 14.5-ounce can low-salt beef broth 2 cups water 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup long-grain white rice 1/2 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed Olive oil for frying plus 2 1/2 tablespoons olive oil 1 1/2 pounds russet potatoes, scrubbed (unpeeled), cut into 1/2-inch-thick rounds, then cut crosswise into 1/2-inch strips 1 1/2 pounds beef tenderloin steaks, cut crosswise into 1/4-inch-thick strips 1 red onion, cut through stem end into 8 wedges, peeled 3 tomatoes, each cut into 8 wedges 3 tablespoons minced ají amarillo chile from jar* or minced seeded red jalapeño chiles 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro 1/3 cup soy sauce 2 1/2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
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Preparation Boil broth in small saucepan until reduced to 1 cup, about 8 minutes. Set aside. Bring 2 cups water and 1 teaspoon salt to boil. Add rice. Cover; reduce heat and cook about 15 minutes. Mix in corn. Cover; let stand 5 minutes, then fluff rice with fork. Meanwhile, heat enough oil in large deep nonstick skillet to reach depth of 1/8 inch. Add potatoes and cook until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Heat 2 1/2 tablespoons oil in heavy large skillet over high heat. Add beef; sauté until brown, 1 to 2 minutes. Using slotted spoon, transfer beef to plate. Add onion to same skillet and cook until beginning to soften, turning with tongs, about 2 minutes per side. Add tomatoes, chile, cilantro, soy sauce, vinegar, and reduced broth and cook 2 minutes to soften tomatoes. Add beef and potatoes; toss to heat through. Spoon beef-potato mixture into shallow soup bowls. Serve rice mixture alongside. * A Peruvian chile; sold at Latin markets.
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Goat Cheese Cake With Mixed Berries SERVINGS: 8 Unsalted butter (for pan) 3/4 cup sugar plus more for pan 12 ounces fresh soft goat cheese, room temperature 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 6 large eggs, separated 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 1/2 pints mixed berries (blackberries, strawberries, blueberries, and/or raspberries)
Preheat oven to 350°. Butter springform pan and dust with sugar, tapping out any excess. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat goat cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla, and 3/4 cup sugar in a large bowl until smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes. Add egg yolks two at a time, beating to blend and scraping down sides of bowl between additions. Reduce speed to low, add flour, and mix just until blended. Using clean, dry beaters, beat egg whites in a medium bowl until soft peaks form. Fold 1/4 of egg whites into goat cheese mixture just until blended; fold in remaining egg whites just until blended. Scrape into prepared pan and tap pan to level batter. Bake cheesecake until top is set but still jiggles slightly in the center, 30–35 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack; let cool in pan. Run a thin knife around sides of pan; unmold cake. Serve topped with berries.
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W OM EN’S ST YLIST
IT’S TIME TO CLEAN OUT THAT CLOSET OF YOURS. The weather has finally broken and it is time to celebrate warm weather Washington! So, clean out your closet to make room for these staples of the season. They are classic, current and chic and every piece is under a hundred bucks.
WOMEN Commando mini-cami slip, $72; journelle.com; J.Crew silk slip dress, $80; jcrew.com Levi’s Women’s 501 Boom Town mid-rise shorts, $60; coggles.com Gap classic leather ballet flats, $40; gap.com; Adidas Originals Stan Smith leather sneakers, $75; net-a-porter.com
M E N’S S TY LIS T
MEN Printed pants are in with a vengeance this season. When your pants are the focal point of your look, you’re going to stand out. And, you don’t want to stand out for the wrong reasons! The trick to wear the prints is to keep the rest of your gear as simple as possible. This means clean T-shirts, solid button-ups, or sleek polo shirts.
Marc by Marc Jacobs (print) Club Monaco (print) Baldwin Denim (Camo) Orley (Plaid/Light Blue)
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INC. We take a holistic and comprehensive approach to your finances. We listen to our clients and understand their unique financial situation and develop customized strategies for them.
For a free initial consultation, call or email.
MARC SCHLIEFER, CFP速 Marc S. Schliefer, CFP速 Equity Planning Inc. 7910 Woodmont Avenue, Suite 900 Bethesda, MD 20814 Phone: 301-652-8702 Fax: 301-652-9066 www.equityplanning.com marcs@equityplanning.com www.linkedin.com/in/marcschliefer/
Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through U.S. Financial Advisors, a Registered Investment Advisor. U.S. Financial Advisors and U.S. Wealth Management are separate entities from LPL Financial.
M ONEY & FIN AN C E
WEALTH COORDINATION Many people get frustrated and concerned when making financial planning decisions because they are not sure how one decision or financial strategy will impact other financial strategies that they are doing or considering. It would be nice to see how one strategy impacts everything else that you are doing in your financial life. Over the past several years, I have found that working with a model that measures the impact of one financial decision on your overall financial life can be very valuable. It is always good to see what harm or potential gain can happen by making one financial move. We will look at three simple strategies and see what impact that one strategy will have on the rest of your finances.
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We have discussed the three components of wealth over the last few years; they are Protection, Savings, and Growth. The biggest thing about these wealth components is that you cannot look at them in a vacuum. Most of the time when you make a change in one of the wealth components, it can have an effect on other wealth components that you have. We are used to making decisions one drawer or component at a time. The problem is that there is a ripple effect caused when you do one thing, it creates many things that come into play when you make any financial move or commitment. An example of that is Car insurance. Let’s say that you increased your deductible on your car insurance and also increase your liability limits. This can have an effect on your liability insurance, your ownership and regular savings account. You may also decide to put more money into savings to protect yourself for a few years from the higher potential risk of paying more out of pocket to cover the deductible. The people that would be involved in this transaction could be your insurance broker, your financial advisor, and your banker. Another example would be if you increased your contribution to a retirement plan. You would have your Tax deferred component opened up, along with your taxes which would be less initially, but possibly higher later on when the money hopefully increases and you withdraw funds and are taxed on them. Your wills and trusts component would change because there is a beneficiary on your retirement plan. The ownership component would open up also, since the funds are in a government controlled fund that has rules imposed by the government that constantly change. The investments that are part of your retirement plan would be involved and this can include bonds, stocks, real estate, collectibles, and money markets. Purchasing a house would be another example. You would have the Real Estate component opened up, along with Homeowners Insurance, and Liability insurance, along with less in Regular Savings for the down payment, the Tax deductible component would open up along with the Tax Shelter component. Most people usually do not look at how one decision has so many other moving parts that can cost them money or save them money when you make a financial decision. You can see by the above examples that there one financial decision has many impacts. The Car Insurance has an impact on four financial components, the retirement plan has an impact on eight financial components and purchasing a home has a financial
impact on six components. That is assuming that things are operating in a regular way without any complications. If there are complications or extenuating circumstances the number of components starts to expand from there. You need some sort of modeling tool that allows you to see how each financial decision impacts your life. Over the past several articles, we have been using a financial modeling tool that measures Protection, Savings and Growth. The nicest part of the tool is that each financial move can show the ripple effect of that strategy. In other words, it can measure the impact of doing one thing and what type of impact that has on other strategies. You need to see what the short term, mid- term and long term impact is on all of your financial decisions. If you have any questions regarding this please feel free to email me at marcs@equitplanning.com The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through US Financial Advisors, a registered investment advisor. US Financial Advisors and Equity Planning are separate entities from LPL Financial.
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BUZZ Co-working company WeWork is looking to expand its D.C. area footprint, this time on H Street NE. The New York-based provider of co-working space is close to a deal for a 26,000-square-foot space at the Apollo, a mixeduse building under construction on the 600 block of H St. NE, according to a source with knowledge of the discussions. (WBJ)
The dismantling of the Corcoran continues with the sale of the old Fillmore School building in Georgetown to the non-profit S&R Foundation, which plans to turn it into an incubator for the fine arts. The George Washington University took ownership of the building last summer as part of the deal which split the storied art museum and school. The money from the sale will go toward the estimated $80 million renovation of the Corcoran’s aging building on 17th Street. The Fillmore School building was listed in January for $14 million, but the sale price wasn’t disclosed. S&R said in a release that the building will “serve as a platform to grow talented artists in the fields of fine, visual and performing arts, maintaining the educational use of the building and its place as part of the vibrant arts landscape in the nation’s capital.” The non-profit also runs a social entrepreneurship incubator at Halycon House and hosts musical events at the Evermay Estate, both in Georgetown. (dcist)
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Word has gotten out that the International Spy Museum is proposing a new location in the District’s Southwest quadrant, and the project was being designed by London’s Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners. The Spy Museum is currently located at F and 8th streets NW, and has been searching for a larger space. The museum’s development partner, Chevy Chase, Md.–based the JBG Companies, has
been collaborating with Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners on this site for several years, and a design from Feb. 2013, proposed two connected office buildings for the site. In this latest proposal to go before the commission, these structures have been scaled back to accommodate a roughly 100,000-square-foot building fronting 10th Street designed to house the Spy Museum. (Architect)
BL ACK BO O K
Tokyo may not be known as a city with much greenery, but it has several noteworthy parks and gardens. On your next visit to Japan’s capital, stop by one of these tranquil settings for a bit of rest and relaxation.
Imperial Palace East Gardens 5-10 minute walk from Tokyo Station Admission: Free
This is the location of the former Edo Castle and part of the current Imperial Palace. It includes massive castle moats, the foundations of the former castle tower and a Japanese landscape garden.
Rikugien 2 minute walk from Komagome Station Admission: 300 yen
One of the most beautiful, classic Japanese landscape gardens of Tokyo. Dating from the Edo Period, 1603-1868, a period of history enhanced by the enjoyment of the arts and culture, it reproduces landscape scenes from famous poems in miniature. Nice in all seasons.
Koishikawa Korakuen 5-10 minute walk from Iidabashi Station Admission: 300 yen
Beautiful Japanese landscape garden, representing famous Japanese and Chinese sceneries in miniature. It also dates from the early Edo Period and is enjoyable during all seasons.
Mount Takao Takaosanguchi Station, Keio Railways Admission: Free
This sacred, wooded mountain, 50 minutes by train, west of central Tokyo, but still within the boundaries of the metropolis offers various hiking courses, and is particularly nice in autumn.
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DI PLOMAC Y by Katherine Eschenbach
Embassy Chef Challenge 2015
Often described as Washington, DC’s best kept secret, this event is the perfect way to explore your palate! Sample delectable dishes from world class embassy chefs. Each chef will be competing for the People’s Choice Award, chosen by attendees. A live and silent auction will also be held which features world class items, such as a meal for 6 prepared by representing Nordic chefs. Price of admission is $250. Evening Concert Alan Choo, violin and Iris Hsu, piano
Renowned violinist Alan Choo and pianist Iris Hsu will be performing at the Embassy of Singapore on May 7th. Choo has performed for elite orchestras such as the St. Petersburg Symphony in Russia and various Chinese Orchestras such as the Singapore Chinese Orchestra. In 2011, Mr.Choo won Singapore’s National Piano and Violin Competition. In 2014, he received the Goh Soon Tioe Centenary Award, which was founded by the students of late musician Goh
Soon Tioe. His accompanist, Iris Hsu, was described by the New York Times as an ”exquisitely subtle pianist”. She is also the prizewinner of the Los Angeles International Liszt Competition, as well as the Baltimore Music Club, Pacific Musical Society and Ross McKee Competitions. For $95 you can enjoy a buffet and listen to the beautiful music of these talented artists. Embassy of Singapore 3501 International Place. NW May 7, 2015
The Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW May 20, 2015
France Dance Soiree in Paris
Have you ever wanted to learn how to dance the Viennese Waltz, Tango or Salsa? Look no further! The Embassy of France is holding a night for music, dancing, wine and appetizing desserts. Enjoy the night and learn from the professionals. Without lessons the event costs $15. Embassy of France 4101 Reservoir Road NW June 26, 2015
THE BRAND BEHIND THE
BRAND
Supporting premier brands for over 25 years. 2941 Fairview Park Drive Suite 650 Falls Church, Virginia 22042
703.739.8803
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John Eric Home 45 branding. marketing. public relations.
TEC H
FUN PEARLS Mother’s Day OF TECH WISDOM
If you’re shopping for Mother’s Day, whether it’s for a loved one or to treat yourself, consider swapping out the standard gifts for some glam gadgets that will add a little extra twinkle to your favorite mama’s eye. We discovered a few “pearls” that seemed especially fancy, fun and perfect for Mom’s spring wearable tech wardrobe:
If you want to go with most popular gift of the season, order up an Apple Watch for mom ($349-$17,000). However, do not expect them to ship in time for Mother’s Day and they will not be available to purchase in-store until June 1. Meanwhile, Barney’s of New York is currently offering Intel’s MICA (My Intelligent Communication Accessory), a smart phone and virtual personal assistant all rolled into one super stylish bangle ($500). The option with black snakeskin features pearls from Madagascar, hence confirming it a winner for this gift list! With the MICA 3G radio via AT&T, you can send and receive calls, be notified by important contacts and reminded about Google and Facebook calendar events. It will even suggest Yelp listings for places around you. www.barneys.com Pearl of a Watch
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Pearl Mirror Compact Charger From the makers
of the iStick, which was a favorite success story last year on KickStarter, HYPER by Sanho Inc. presents the World’s First Compact Mirror with Built-in USB Battery Pack (3000mAh), which they say “can recharge Mom’s devices while she refreshes her makeup.” Indeed. Pretty nifty stuff for $39. They even light up, courtesy of an LED light inside, and are available in fun colors too – red, gold and silver. www.hypershop.com
An alluring addition to the newest list of “smart jewelry,” the NFCempowered Momento Pearl™ from Galatea (range is for $350 to a couple thousand) is said to be the first cultured pearl to contain a “near field communication” chip, which lets you record a unique personal message that is played when the pearl is tapped against a compatible mobile device. Beyond audio, it also can store other digital content such as images, messages and videos. The user downloads a Galatea app on their phone or tablet, through which the message or audio/video file is uploaded. Choose from a variety of styles with the Momento Pearl collection, which includes 29 pendants, 26 earrings and eight rings in 14k gold with Tahitian and freshwater pearls. www. galateausa.com Momento Pearl
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BMW of Fairfax
8427 Lee Highway Fairfax, VA 22031
800-591-2541
www.BMWofFairfax.com