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For your big day, and every day after. C H A R L O T T E AT S O U T H PA R K M A L L C H A R L E S T O N AT K I N G S T R E E T S AVA N N A H AT B R O U G H T O N S T

T H E

L U X U R Y

L I F E S T Y L E

M A G A Z I N E

EAST COAST

L U X

YOUR

EDITOR IN CHIEF, FOUNDER Colleen Guilfoile Richmond ART DIRECTOR Kim Hall

GUIDE

ART & CULTURE EDITOR Nelia Verano DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING Kat Hands Kat@luxlifestyle-magazine.com

SALES EXECUTIVES Jo Neese jo@luxlifestyle-magazine.com Christy Spiegel Christy@luxlifestyle-magazine.com

ALL

Gayle Massey Gayle@luxlifestyle-magazine.com Lisa Turner lisaturner@lmtmedia.com PHOTOGRAPHY Jim Schmid

THINGS

LUX

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Debra Kennedy Sharon Jane Adam Jocot De Boinod Allison Parker Nelia Verano Nicole Peterenel John- Mark Mitchel Dr. Frank Lipman Jessica Swannie Cover - Photography by Ungano + Agriodimas for Veronica Beard

For advertising information contact: East Coast Lux Lifestyle Magazine 704-980-3111 The East Coast Lux Lifestyle Magazine is published bimonthly by Lux & Co media group llc.. Reproduction in any manner in whole or part is prohibited without the express written consent of The Lux Lifestyle Magazine. Material contained herein does not reflect the opinion of the publisher or its staff. The Lux Lifestyle Magazine does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertisements or editorial. The Lux Lifestyle Magazine reserves the right to edit all materials for space and clarity and assumes no responsibility for accuracy, errors or omissions. Articles and photographs are welcome and may be submitted to our offices to be reviewed.

Send all submissions to:

Colleen@LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

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Lux Lifestyle | P.O. Box 79322 | Charlotte, NC 28271 Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

CONTENTS 97

FEATURES 74 / LUIS MACHICAO by Allison Parker

81 / OPEN UP AND

CONNECT by Allison Parker

86 / BREEZY VIBES by Allison Parker

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

CONTENTS

DEPARTMENTS 12 / CONTRIBUTORS 17 / FROM THE EDITOR

BALANCE 18 / WEALTH

Business Spring Cleaning with Nesha Pai

20 / LIFESTYLE

Confessions of a Lifestyle Connoisseur with Debra Kennedy

22 / ETIQUETTE Sharon Schweitzer

24 / HEALTH

Ask the DR. - Dr. Frank Lipman

EXCLUSIVE

28 / REAL ESTATE

106 / REAL ESTATE

The LUX Report by John-Mark Mitchell

TASTE

ESCAPE

115 / TASTE OF EXOTICISM

34/ FEAST

AND LUXURY

Dine Alfresco by Jessica Swannie

by Adam Jacot de Boinod

40 / SAVOR

122 / THE FRENCH

Supperland by Jessica Swannie

QUARTER INN

126 / PASSPORT TO PRIVACY

46 / MIXOLOGY

Happy Hour for Al Fresco Fun

ART & CULTURE by Nelia Verano

53 / WHEN WALLS TALK 58 / MURALIST SPOTLIGHT

STYLE

by Sharon Jane

61 / SPRING/SUMMER 2021 READY-TO-WEAR

RETREAT

93 / CURATED BY CLAUDIA by Claudia Ricciardone

97 / RAYS OF SUNSHINE by Allison Parker

102 / 10 THINGS ABOUT THE MASTERS Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

CONTRIBUTORS

SHARON SCHWEITZER

Propelling professional leaders to their next promotion via virtual learning is what Sharon Schweitzer does best. She’s the author of the Amazon #1 best-selling book in international business and business etiquette, Access to Asia, which also received a coveted Kirkus Star. A certified cultural consultant, attorney, and international etiquette expert, she shares her message about building trust and creating long-lasting relationships in appearances from Dubai to Prague. She serves on various boards including the Global Thinkers Forum and the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library. Connect with her on Instagram @sharonschweitzer and explore her work at Sharon Schweitzer.

DEBRA ANN KENNEDY

Debra is most recognized as host of “The Debra Kennedy Show” a lifestyle talk show in which she is the producer and on-air host. She is also a regular on Fox TV Good Morning Charlotte and NBC Charlotte Today as a Lifestyle and Beauty Expert. Debra is a former Mrs North Carolina United States, Mrs North Carolina America and Mrs North Carolina International. She has appeared on many national television commercials as well as MTV and the World Wide Inspiration channel. Writing is a huge passion for Debra and many of her experiences include:Beauty Editor for Supermodels International Magazine, Lifestyle Editor for Elevate Lifestyle Magazine, Contributing Writer for Southpark Magazine and Carolina Bride Magazine. Debra has graced the cover of SuperModels International Magazine as well as Elevate Lifestyle Magazine and has been interviewed and featured in countless other magazines however her greatest accomplished is her unique ability to relate to others with her spitfire personality and passionate understanding that what you “give” in life is what you get in return. Please visit her website www.debrakennedyshow.com to learn more about Debra.

SHARON JANE

@itssharonjane As a 6 year old, little Sharon Jane followed her mother around at every fashion show, event, production and casting she would work in. As Sharon grew, she realized just how much she loves fashion and became her mother’s right hand at all of those productions. From watching fashion shows on little screens to witnessing the fun chaos of backstage, Sharon Jane just loves the fashion world in all of its layers. After she received her Bachelor’s in Creative Advertising at the age of 20, she used her newfound experience in visual arts to continue her work in fashion as Sharon Jane Productions as well as part of Embellecerte, a company she started with her mother, working as personal shoppers, producers, content creators, model coaches, and fashion editors. As a fashion editor and content creator, Sharon hopes to express her love for the ever-changing fashion industry and show how fashion increasingly becomes a pioneer for positive change from self-love, sustainability to a wider acceptance of diversity.

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

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CONTRIBUTORS ADAM JACOT DE BOINOD

Adam Jacot de Boinod is a British author, most famous for his works about unusual words. He has written three books, the first two (The Meaning of Tingo and Toujours Tingo) looking at words that have no equivalent in the English language, and his latest book (The Wonder of Whiffling) looking at unusual words in English. He worked on the first series of the television panel game QI. His research on the show involved him reading an entire Albanian language dictionary and noting down any words that he found interesting. He formed the idea that there are 27 different words for moustaches and 27 words for eyebrows in Albanian, including, “vetullan” (“very bushy eyebrows”), “vetullor” (“slightly arched eyebrows”) and “vetullosh” (“very thick eyebrows”). After leaving QI, he began to investigate other languages, examining 280 dictionaries and 140 websites. This led to the creation of his first book in 2005, The Meaning of Tingo, a book featuring words which have no equivalent in the English language, “tingo” being a word from the Pascuense language of Easter Island meaning, “to borrow things from a friend’s house, one by one, until there’s nothing left”. He then wrote up a follow-up book entitled Toujours Tingo in 2007. In 2009, de Boinod wrote The Wonder of Whiffling, a book about unusual words in English, the word “whiffling” having several meanings, including, “one who examined candidates for degrees… an officer who cleared the way for a procession, as well as being the name of the man with the whip in Morris dancing.”

ALLISON PARKER

Allison Parker has a MBA in marketing and human resources from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, PA. Always loving the written word, Allison has a knack for streaming her thoughts through to the keyboard. Her favorite part of freelance writing is meeting interesting people and discovering unique subjects to share with her audiences. Allison enjoys being a devoted mom to her 3 beautiful boys and volunteering within their schools and community. Allison embraces new adventures, loves to travel, and is always on the quest to learn more about the world around her.

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

NELIA VERANO

Nelia Verano, better known as Neely to colleagues and friends, grew up in the Midwest and began cultivating her love for the arts at an early age, taking piano and vocal lessons, art classes, and singing throughout high school and college. After moving to Charlotte, North Carolina in 2003 and working in various non-profit leadership roles, including as Chief Development Officer for The Mint Museum, she co-founded the art gallery LaCa Projects, where she served as managing director for six years. She has been a passionate advocate for the arts in Charlotte both in her professional roles as well as in numerous charitable and board positions with a number of organizations. Nelia is currently a member of the board of trustees for the McColl Center for Art + Innovation, an advisory board member of The Arts Empowerment Project, and a member of the Contemporary Art Board at the Mint Museum. Nelia is also co-founder of Sphere Series, a grass-roots initiative dedicated to bringing innovators in the arts from all over the globe to engage in thoughtful and relevant discussions on how arts and creativity can spark life-changing dialogue and promote necessary social change. Earlier this year, Nelia founded Nelia Verano, LLC (www.neliaverano.com), an art advisory firm dedicated to assist clients source, exhibit, manage, and install their art collections. Nelia is better known as “momma” to two energetic boys, Luca and Leo, her daughter Rosy, and her husband, Michael. Alongside her passion for art and music, Nelia adores time in her kitchen, travel, and interior design.

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S U S A N M AY Broker/Realtor® 704-650-7432 susanmay@hmproperties.com hmproperties.com Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

CONTRIBUTORS

JIM SCHMID

Jim’s grandfather was a Master photographer. His tradition was to give each grandchild a camera for Christmas the year they entered high school. Photography seemed to be in Jim’s DNA as 3 years later his portfolio won the “Best in the United States” Kodak award. Fast forward “a few” years, and he is still hard at work behind the lens. Jim’s images have graced the covers of more than 25 magazines focused on subjects as varied as airplanes, NASCAR, solar energy, human interest, opera, interior design, and home building. Online, his photographs can be seen on CNNtravel.com, and MSN.com. On Houzz.com, Jim is the highest ranked photographer in NC. His clientele ranges from international corporations to numerous craftspeople in the residential industry. Jim is a visual explorer who seeks diverse places to photograph and experience. He is affable, loves dogs, and hates pandemics. See his work at www.jimschmid.com or on Instagram @jimschmidphotography. Email: jim@jimschmid.com

NICOLE PETERNEL

Nicole Peternel is a midwesterner turned Charlottean, relocating from Chicago to the Queen City in 2015. She is the owner of Rein Communications, a boutique public relations agency with clients across the U.S. from the Hamptons to Miami. In her 20+ years of industry experience, she has worked with numerous global and luxury brands, securing them features in publications like The New York Times, Travel + Leisure and CNN. Alongside her team, she elevates clients in health and wellness, retail, beauty, real estate, hospitality and tourism, growing their businesses through storytelling, increased visibility and heightening reputation. Whether it’s visiting a major metropolis for work meetings, monthly beach trips with her husband and two boys or even just a quick retreat to enjoy the spa and shopping, Nicole is regularly exploring exciting destinations, restaurants, hotels and scenes across the globe. A believer in authenticity, you will find her on social media reflecting her real life, doing everything from (loudly) cheering on her son at hockey games or making dinner in her pajamas, to being dressed in sequins and attending red carpet events. You can follow the beautiful chaos at @nicolepeternel, contact her at www.nicolepeternel.com or see her work at www.reincommunications.com.

JOHN-MARK M. MITCHELL

John-Mark M. Mitchell is Owner/ Founder of Mitchell Prime Properties, a North Carolina-based brokerage that specializes in selling to high-net-worth individuals. He has lead his forward thinking luxury brand to winning several international awards while competing with the biggest names in the industry. John Mark has made it clear that while he has broken sales records in multiple markets, he always wants his company to be recognized for selling Luxury in all price ranges. He instills in his brokers that Luxury is not defined by price alone and wants his company to be known for the service they provide each of their clients. He is recognized as a national best selling author with his collaboration with Jack Canfield. He was awarded Concierge Auctions , Key to our Success Award in 2018 where he also serves as their Broker in Charge for NC. He has been recognized on the cover of several magazines including Top Agent Magazine and quoted in Fortune Magazine. He has also appeared on BRAVO and A&E. Travel, Italian cars and a constant quest to become a better bourbon snob makes for an exceptional and exciting lifestyle.

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

E D I T O R ’ S L E T T E R “If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant - if we did not sometimes taste adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome.” – Anne Bradstree Spring is upon us and whether you are further North with the blooms just budding or further South in full rapture, this year feels like no other. We welcome new beginnings and a cleansing of sorts. We have gone through a very difficult winter, one that seems to have lasted an entire year. As we awaken again and begin to venture out, children begin to go back to school, and travel becomes a reality. Our sights are on bringing the outdoors in. Allison Parker speaks with world renowned designer Amanda Linderoth in Breezy Vibes on page 86. Amanda has been decorating with the indoor/outdoor theme since its founding. Linderoth’s design has become the go to firm for Island Inspired Classic Design with shops in Charleston, South Carolina & Palm Beach. We escape by land, sea, and air in Passport to Privacy by Nicole Peterenel. The perfect socially distant vacation is on a private yacht. Susan Pollack offers outdoor entertaining tips in Open Up and Connect, and we look at the growing trend of taking art outdoors in If Walls Could Talk by Nelia Verano. Outdoor art has been a form of expression and beauty throughout history and has the ability to completely transform a neighborhood. Jessica Swannie picks some of her favorite al fresco dining spots up and down the East Coast, including one of our all time favorites. We look forward to exploring, enjoying and reconnecting with places and people near and far in the coming months as we celebrate spring.

Colleen

Colleen Guilfoile Richmond

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

BALANCE

W E A LT H

BUSINESS SPRING CLEANING 101 WITH NESHA PAI

In the Spring, we think of renewal

It is imperative to keep

or rebirth. The earth starts get

your business and personal

green again, flowers start to bloom,

assets very separate, as any of

and everything starts to ‘wake up’.

your creditors can bring your

Oftentimes, we start cleaning our

personal assets into a debt

homes, preparing our patios, and

situation, including the IRS.

getting rid of the dreary winter

You need to maintain a separate

clutter in our lives. One of the big-

bank account for your business;

gest things that get overlooked as

use the company name on all

business owners, is making sure our

documents; title any property

business is in order and up-to-date.

in the name of the company. If

We forget that our biggest asset

there was any wrongdoing or

should also be cleaned, prepared,

fraud, the above will not matter,

and de-cluttered too. It is time to

as owners will be held

take an inventory to make sure your

accountable.

business is protected and always up to par. Here are the major areas that need to be reviewed:

THE CORPORATE VEIL Is there exposure of lifting your ‘corporate veil’? A big reason

LEGAL CONTRACTS Do you do everything on a handshake? Protect your assets

a business owner chooses to form a corporation or limited lia-

by having lease agreements for your rentals, placing property

bility company (LLC) is so that they won’t be held personally li-

and equipment titles in the company name, having subcon-

able for debts should the business be unable to pay its creditors.

tractor agreements and contracts on every project, not relying

But sometimes courts will hold an LLC or corporation’s owners,

on emails or verbal agreements for terms, and never hiring

members, and shareholders personally liable for business debts.

people to work under the table by paying them in cash. Only use

When this happens it’s called “piercing the corporate veil.” An-

licensed, bonded, and/or insured professionals to help you in

other way that this can happen is by comingling bank accounts.

your business. There is merit to having everything in writing.

Many small business owners comingle their personal bank

Make sure your contracts are up-to-date. Find a good business

accounts with their business expenses and vice-versa.

attorney to help you with these documents.

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

INSURANCE MATTERS Do you have the right policies? Insurance is an important

AN ESTATE PLAN What will happen to your family if you were no longer living?

part of your life and business and should be reviewed annually.

No one ever wants to go there, but it is imperative to think

Insurance gives you the ability to take care of an incident in

about this when we do not know what tomorrow brings. You

your business. There are many types of insurance to consider

don’t need to be a millionaire to have an estate plan. This

depending on the type of business you have. Most common are:

becomes most important when you become a parent and even

professional liability, general umbrella, and workers compen-

more so when you own a business. Besides a will, there are

sation. Also, from a personal standpoint, it helps to review your

many other important documents such as a living will (which

health, auto, and homeowners policies each year.

lays out your wishes for things like life support) and health care

EMERGENCY FUND

proxy (which appoints someone to make decisions on your behalf if a medical issue leaves you unable to do so yourself).

What if the world shut down again? Keep at least 3 month’s worth of expenses set aside in a liquid account to be able to get

TECHNOLOGY GAMEPLAN

back on your feet. But, even if the world kept going, this fund is

More and more viruses are hitting databases and the world

a great tool to manage unexpected bills such as medical costs or

wide web. Identity theft and confidential data are becoming

to repair your home or car. Set up auto drafts from your check-

easier to hack into, and most of us have experienced this in one

ing account into a savings account. This way you don’t even see

way or another. The pandemic caused all kinds of issues with

the money and you won’t spend it.

scammers. For example, If you received a PPP loan, your record

RETIREMENT LIVING Do you have a plan for your financial future? Find a good

was made public and you will be bombarded with scam email. Don’t respond to anything that isn’t coming from a source you know, and do not click on any links. Make sure that your

financial advisor. Federal law provides asset protection to

technology is protected with firewalls, anti-viral software, and

ERISA qualified retirement plans (like 401k plans), and up to

disaster recovery backup.

$1,362,800 in assets in a non-ERISA qualified plan (like IRAs) in the event of bankruptcy. This protection cap is adjusted every three years for inflation and will adjust again on April 1,

RECORD RETENTION As a general rule, for tax returns: Hold onto documents that

2022.This is a great way to sock away money that you will not

support income, deductions, and credits for at least three years

need immediately. Some states provide even more protection

after the tax-filing deadline. There are exceptions for longer

to IRAs. Retirement accounts are excellent vehicles to protect

periods in cases where taxpayers neglect to report income, have

long-term savings, and provide substantial tax benefits, but

worthless securities, or if you pay taxes to a foreign government.

need to be understood and used with due care.

Shred any documents that you no longer need to keep.

It is easy to neglect, or put on the backburner, these things because they are not necessarily a priority in our day to day lives. But know, that your life will be smoother if you intentionally care for your business affairs as you do your home and your life.

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

BALANCE

LIFESTYLE

CONFESSIONS OF A

LIFESTYLE CONNOISSEUR WITH DEBRA KENNEDY

ello Fabulous Besties! As I was narrowing down a topic for my article, I began reading my e-mails with all of your comments and questions for inspiration and a light bulb moment flashed. I am soon approaching three glorious years with Lux and you have been with me

every step of the way. A lot has happened over the last two years and your e-mails gave a whole new meaning to my writing journey. In this article, I will answer a few of your questions.

MOST ASKED PERSONAL QUESTION: HOW ARE YOU ALWAYS SO HAPPY? I certainly have had my share of “changes” but who hasn’t? Being happy is a choice. On days that are less than perfect, I find one or two great things that happened that day and appreciate the good! It also helps that I don’t live in a bubble of perfection. Who can? I don’t take myself too seriously and I focus on what I do really well. I believe in the power of bestie sisterhood! Sisters who lift each other up and help each other. Jealousy is not allowed in my happy zone and if you can’t be happy for others you can’t be part of my “bestie club!”

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

Do I consider myself a Pollyanna? I am an excessively cheerful and optimistic person so I guess the answer is YES! To be honest, I don’t want to spend time with negative people? You

smile, twirl in a beautiful evening gown and anyone of the girls could be lucky enough to be named the winner. Pageants are not about luck but 100% about preparation.

know that person that finds the bad in everything and is painful

When I entered the world of pageants, I trained like I was

to have a conversation with. Remember it takes just as much

running a marathon. I watched the World News, I was part of

energy to smile as it does to frown.

mock interviews, I worked out twice a day, and did a daily video

I AM HAPPY TO BE HAPPY!!!!!!

review of previous pageants. Networking, mental preparation and lots of community service were all part of the process as

MOST ASKED RELATIONSHIP QUESTION: HOW IS THE WORLD OF DATING GOING FOR YOU?

well. Why did I enter the pageant world? Why do football play-

I know there have been some extreme changes in my life and

and the ability to love and accept myself as a unique individual.

ers play professional football? Why do race car drivers race? We like to WIN!!! What I gained from pageants is confidence

I appreciate the question about my dating life. Or better said

The “crown” allows you to have a platform for your message

“WHAT IS GOING ON DEBRA KENNEDY?” So, you want me

that can change lives. Pageants did that for me and I will forev-

to “spill the tea!!!”

er be a beauty queen! The friendships I gained from the years in

Honestly, my dating life is nonexistent at the moment. I toy

the pageant world will always be one of my most valued prizes.

with the idea and even get giddy at times when I think about it.

So, to answer your question, “What is the biggest misconception

I am just not quite ready for the time commitment. My friend

about pageants?” Pageants are about looks only when in fact,

visited a few weeks ago and gave me a tutorial on her dating

it takes brains, hard work, discipline, energy, and drive to be a

apps. My head was spinning from the banter back and forth. I

BEAUTY QUEEN!

am also not sure I have the patience just yet. She literally had 25 conversations going on at the same time. I also realized how

MOST ASKED FUTURE QUESTION: WHAT IS NEXT FOR YOU?

much I am enjoying “alone” time and when the time is right, I will know. The time is just not now. I do love the reader that

Besties, I love pushing boundaries. At 19 years old, I had a

wanted to fix me up with her brother! It is not a No, just a not

regular TV Segment on fashion, I was a cheerleader for a semi-

right now, but thanks! At some point it is going to happen and

pro football team and I flew to New York for two guest spots

you know I always keep it real and share with You my besties.

on All My Children and felt the world was my oyster. There is

So, hang tight for the “Dear Debra” Dating column as I might

something so magical about youth. The ability to try new things

need to go on a few dates before I can write that book or answer

and discover what I like is a gift and at times I still feel like that

your dating questions.

19 year old dream seeker! The one thing on my bucket list is to

MOST ASKED PAGEANT QUESTION: WHAT IS THE BIGGEST MISCONCEPTION ABOUT PAGEANTS? On television, it looks like you walk out on stage, flash a pretty

write a book. I am in the beginning stages and by this time next year I may just be a best- selling author. “By Changing Nothing, Nothing Changes!” Please keep those e-mails coming besties and I hope to connect with you soon, Until Next Time!

Follow me on Instagram: @debrakennedyshow You Tube: The

Facebook: debraannkennedy

Debra Kennedy Show Channel Website: debrakennedyshow.com

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

BALANCE

ETIQUETTE

CULTURE AND ETIQUETTE IN SOCIETY By Sharon Schweitzer, J.D. Schweitzer’s Headshot by Korey Howell

GRACIOUSLY RESPONDING TO HIGHLY CHARGED POLITICAL QUESTIONS Joseph R. Biden, Jr. was inaugurated on Wednesday, January 20, 2021, during the Covid-19 pandemic. In light of the events of January 6, the inauguration occurred with unprecedented levels of security as the world observed our democracy in action. So how do we successfully navigate highly charged political conversations during this turbulent time? Depending on your cultural conditioning, your comfort level with direct, or even confrontational questions, may be different from your colleague’s or BFF’s. So, what’s the best way to respond if someone pointedly asks you, “Who did you vote for?” or “What do you think of Kamala Harris?” Then there are alternative approaches, “Are you watching the impeachment proceedings?” “Did you watch the inauguration?” “How do you think his first 100 days went?” Depending on your preference for direct or indirect questions, and privacy, you may freeze up like a deer in the headlights. How do you respond graciously? Whether it is a global team meeting, private-Zoom-chat, or a one-on-one convo, are you prepared?

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

RESPECT IS UNIVERSALLY UNDERSTOOD: When you are asked a political question in the U.S., or another culture, it is important to show respect for different customs, including what makes each culture unique. Our personal cultural conditioning has a deep impact, and yet we all understand and recognize respect. Globally, the decorum of asking and answering personal questions can vary greatly. In Russia, questions about salary are common. In China, questions about work titles and history are expected because the responses determine where you belong in the hierarchy. Different cultures have different expectations and queries. For example, be prepared for open discussion about politics with teammates or colleagues from Australia. Respectfully exercising your right to remain silent, with private views, when questioned by your boss: Keeping your opinion to yourself can be awkward or difficult in some situations; especially when your boss, client, or super-

visor asks you directly. However, privacy is possible, when han-

Just as you want to express your beliefs, be courteous and let

dled diplomatically. If you don’t wish to share your views or are

the person you are speaking with express his or her beliefs, even

responding to your manager, consider something like, “In the af-

if you disagree.

termath of such a contentious time (or during this time of social unrest), I’m keeping my opinion to myself. I do appreciate your interest.”

RECONCILE CONFLICTING BELIEFS:

By acknowledging and thanking them for their genuine inter-

It’s inevitable that disagreements will arise, but when they

est, you deflect a potentially unpleasant political conversation,

do, handle them with grace, dignity and respect. For example:

and keep your views private. Be true to yourself.

“That’s an interesting way to look at it and you bring up some valid points; however, my research reveals that…'' If possible,

RESPONDING GRACIOUSLY WHEN FACED WITH A PERSISTENT QUESTIONER: If the person is persistent and continues asking for your opinion, consider playing the undecided card and then pivot to a new

avoid raising your voice, showing anger, abruptly walking away, or making it personal. Some unhappy and unfulfilled folks will attempt to bait you, and it can be difficult to recognize that in the heat-of-the-moment. Do your best to stay centered and grounded, even if you need a walk outside to clear your head.

topic that this person is passionate about such as sports, fishing, hiking, or cycling. “I’m absorbing lots of information and still determining how things are progressing.” “I haven’t made up my

HANDLE YOURSELF, EITHER WAY:

mind yet.” You can also inquire about something meaningful; “I

Whether you decide to respond or not, be tactful, polite, and

hear your daughter was accepted to MIT. Congratulations!” “The

remember that educated responses will help you to either cor-

clients are thrilled with the new format for the quarterly report.

dially engage, or graciously decline these conversations. An ex-

How do we finalize it?” “Do you have Spring Break plans?”

ample would be “I am basing my political opinion at this point in time on research results from ____.” Then cite a resource that

ENGAGE IN RESPECTFUL CONVERSATION:

this person respects - not one that will antagonize them. This requires you to be familiar with various resources and points

Political conversations may be taboo among your colleagues,

of view. If the person you are conversing with turns ugly, close

and the conversation starter in your social circles. So, know

the conversation with “That’s an interesting observation. Have a

your audience before engaging and remember that research has

good afternoon.” or “That’s one way of looking at the situation.

shown increased political conversation (even online) is associ-

Thanks for your point of view. Goodbye.”

ated with greater political action. Answering political questions may make you a cheerleader for democracy!

FIND A BALANCE:

Express your beliefs in a way that avoids a political brawl -

Take time to self-assess your comfort level with highly charged

by citing research and concrete reasons why your views align a

political discussions. Be authentic and make an informed deci-

certain way. Encourage an intellectual conversation not a war of

sion. Find a balance that makes you comfortable and stay the

opinions.

course so you “don’t change horses in midstream.”

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

BALANCE

H E A LT H

ASK THE DR. BY DR. FRANK LIPMAN

7 TIMELY TIPS TO SLAY THE SUGAR MONSTER – AND LOOK YOUNGER FAST!

No doubt about it, the last few months have been tough. With so many of life’s pleasurable activities restricted, or gone altogether, small wonder so many folks have had some dietary slip-ups, with too much sugar topping the list. Our culture frames sugar as something benign – a celebratory indulgence or maybe just a little reward for getting through the day — but it’s actually more like a punishment for your body. Think of it as a terrible, life-altering substance that’s nothing but trouble. So, whether you’re led astray by the banana bread craze sweeping social media a few months ago or just an all-purpose sweets-cravings-gone-wild, it’s time to start planning your sugar exit strategy. Why is sugar so hard to break up with? Because it’s a drug, an addictive substance that stimulates the same areas in the brain as cocaine and heroin. If you, like millions of Americans, are hooked and quitting cold turkey isn’t your style, then start tapering off in phases. The sooner you do it, however you do it, the faster you can start turning back the clock on aging and amp up your immunity. That got your attention? While most people know that sugar

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

helps drive weight gain, they don’t necessarily appre-

gans and aging you from the inside. On the skin, your

ciate the big picture, that sugar is the quickest way to

largest organ, this phenomenon manifests visibly as

age and damage your organs, your skin, your brain and

wrinkles. On the inside of your body, these sugar com-

numerous other parts of you — making you old long

pounds scar the blood vessels that feed your heart and

before your time.

your brain, contributing to heart disease and dementia.

Here is some food for thought on how to get started on your sugar-slashing journey: Sugar ages your face – and the rest of you – fast. Like smoking and alcohol use, sugar accelerates aging, by weakening the immune system and promot-

If you make only one change in 2021, it should be cutting sugar from your diet, along with honey and agave, which essentially are all the same to your system. Free your day from the Sugar Monster, one meal at a time.

ing the development of diseases we all fear: diabetes,

When downshifting your intake, the immediate goal

heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s, to name a few.

is to step off (and stay off) the sugar rush-and-crash

In combination with certain proteins, sugar creates

rollercoaster by maintaining stable blood sugar levels.

deposits that get into the bloodstream. They become

Here are seven easy-to-incorporate tips to keep you on

lodged in various places, sitting like rust on your or-

track throughout the day:

down, sending energy levels and blood sugar careen-

1 | START ON THE SAVORY SIDE:

ing up and down several times a day. To stay on an

To begin a sugar purge, start by jettisoning it from

even keel, when feeling peckish and a snack is in order,

your breakfast repertoire. Whether you break your fast

switch out the coffee and sweet stuff combo and boost

at 7 a.m. or noon, your first meal of the day should be

energy with actual fuel – like organic nut butters, raw

rich in good fats, leafy greens, some protein and ut-

veggies, hummus, berries, hard-boiled eggs, etc. You

terly devoid of sugar. In practice, that means ditching

won’t “crash” (and be hungry!) an hour later.

morning sugar-bombs like fruit juice, jam/jelly, breakfast ‘breads’ (sweet or otherwise) and sugary coffee drinks from the local barista. One meal down, one or two more to go

2 | OUTSMART THE SLUMP: If you’re like many folks, you may combat mid-morning or mid-afternoon slumps with a blast of caffeine and a jolt from a blood-sugar-spiking sweet. Sure, they’ll jack you up quickly but then slap you

3 | SWIG ON REAL FLAVOR: If you sip on drinks throughout the workday, remember to hydrate with health-supportive, naturally un-sugared drinks like organic teas, sparkling water, lemon/cucumber water, green drinks. Skip fruit juices, sodas and diet sodas, which flood your body with sugar and/or a spate of potentially toxic chemicals that no one needs.

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

BALANCE 4 | TO SWEETEN OR NOT TO SWEETEN: When it comes to sweeteners, the less the better. As soon as possible, start tapering off all chemical and so-called ‘natural’ sweeteners — including “health-washed” ones like agave and ‘raw’ sugar – as they tend to fuel cravings rather than satisfy. If, at first, you feel you can’t live without sweetening your beverages, then add the smallest amount possible of raw, organic, plant-based stevia or monk fruit sweetener (which don’t spike blood sugar). The goal here is to eventually phase them out as well, to tamp down your sweet tooth over time and side-step any possible long-term metabolic effects (which have not yet been well-studied). Some folks opt for sugar alcohols such as erythritol and xylitol, but they can give you gas and upset your digestion, so they’re not ideal for all.

5 | LUNCH LIKE A PRO:

do instead? Your best bet is home-meal prep, so you control the ingredients and keep the sugar out. Or, budget and time-permitting, join a meal delivery kit service that caters to your dietary preferences and keeps sugar off the menu.

6 | MASTER THE EVENING MEAL: So, what’s the secret to keeping sugar from invading your dinner plate? Switch to a bowl instead, and think soups and light stews, which are easier to digest and will help keep blood sugar from jacking you up at the end of the day. Also, make sure to have your final meal of the day at least 3 – 4 hours before bed to make it easier for your body prepare itself for sleep.

7 | HAVE AN AFTER DINNER CUPPA: For something warm and cozy to linger over, say, after dinner, try a cup of caffeine-free mint, chai or ginger tea, or

For a lot of busy people, the mid-day meal usually de-

hot lemon water. A decaf cappuccino with a sprinkle of cin-

faults to the eat-with-one-hand, grab-n-go’s like a quick deli

namon or cocoa powder is another low-sugar way to wrap

sandwich, a smoothie from Jamba Juice, a yoghurt or pro-

up the day in a way that feels indulgent but won’t mess with

tein bar. The result – anywhere from too much to off-the-

your sleep or blood sugar.

charts amounts of sugar both hidden and obvious. What to

Recognized as a vocal pioneer of integrative and functional medicine (or what he calls “good medicine”), Dr. Frank Lipman is the founder of Eleven Eleven Wellness Center and the Chief Medical Officer at The Well. He is the best-selling author of five books—How to Be Well, The New Health Rules, Young & Slim for Life, Revive and Total Renewal—as well as a sought-after international speaker. Dr. Lipman has been featured in The New York Times, Vogue, Women’s Health, New York Magazine, and O, The Oprah Magazine, and has appeared as a guest on TODAY, Extra, and The Dr. Oz Show.

His newest book, The New Rules of Aging Well: A Simple Program for Immune Resilience, Strength, and Vitality, will be out on October 27, 2020.

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

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BALANCE

R E A L E S TAT E

THE

LUX REPORT by John-Mark Mitchell

Welcome back.....Want some great

all our markets are different when it

news? The Luxury Real Estate market

comes to Luxury Buyers, one thing

is on FIRE......and there is not an extin-

remained the same. Service to our

guisher in sight! The National Associa-

customers remained the number

tion of Realtors, NAR, has posted their

one cohesive element to our presen-

statistics and declared that home sales

tations.

in 2020 reached their highest level since

was obviously different, the custom-

2006! Who saw that happening during

ers and clients that we represented

a pandemic? We also had double-dig-

wanted to have a Luxury experience

it year-over-year growth in December

while finding their new residence.

for all four markets which includes the

While price and location

Now let’s take a look at the largest city on the east coast.

north east and southern regions.

In New

Last month I was honored to be one of

York we are seeing numbers that

four speakers for the National Associa-

week after week in 2021 are at or

tion of Realtors ( NAR) to talk about the

above pre-pandemic levels. In just

Luxury Markets going into 2021. NAR

one week in January, there were 27

is the largest trade association in Amer-

homes asking $4 million or more

ica with over 1.4 Million members. The

going under contract which is the

other Speakers were representatives

highest number since the first week

from Beverly Hills, California, Chicago,

in March 2020! The idea that a lot

Illinois and Sarasota, Florida.

What

of Luxury home owners are fleeing

was interesting to discover is that while

the larger cities has just been de-

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

bunked. While some sellers have wanted out of the city and on to

Make a Note: “It is so important when finding a Broker to represent

larger yards and pools, some city dwellers have just decided to sell

you in buying or selling real estate, that they have a proven history

and buy larger condos for more room. Again, the lowest interest

of knowing the Luxury market and private properties better than

rates in history has spurred on an influx and sence of urgency like

the competition. Public and private connections, along with being

we haven’t seen in the market.

respected by other firms in the area are key aspects to confirm with

On a personal note, February was a huge month in my home town

any broker you hire to represent your best interest.

of Winston-Salem, NC. I was honored to represent both the Buyers

Due to the pandemic, we are seeing less over seas buyers but

and Sellers of the Highest Price ever recorded in the local MLS /

more local residences buying larger luxury homes and estates on

Winston-Salem / Forsyth county area. Even more exciting is that

the east coast. Even across the large pond, London’s priciest homes

we reached the highest value closed in the entire Triad region in the

are predicted to get more expensive after May, 2021, with sales ris-

past 15 years. To add more excitement, I just listed the most ex-

ing by up to 15 percent according to Mansion Global.

traordinary estate built in the past 20 years for $5 Million in the Tri-

In conclusion, I am excited to be taking another journey with you

ad. This property is not on the MLS , Multiple Listing Service, and

in this report. The market is the Best we have seen in Years! Let’s

is shown only to pre-vetted buyers and their brokers. That is some-

enjoy more Luxury in our life and help more folks discover it for

thing to always be aware of in looking for Ultra-High end proper-

themselves. If you have any suggestions for future reports or any

ties. A lot of sellers do not want their private homes exposed to the

questions, please feel free to reach out to me by email: johnmark@

open market and only allow one broker firm to vet buyers for their

GoMitch.com or follow me on Instagram: @johnmarkmitchell.

properties. They still will cooperate with compensating other com-

realestate.

panies or Brokers, if they secure a contract acceptable to all parties.

Thank you for letting me be a part of your story. Cheers!

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Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

What We’ve Got Our Eyes On

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Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

TASTE

FEAST

DINE ALFRESCO AT THESE EAST COAST GEMS by Jessica Swannie One of life’s greatest luxuries is a meal set on the

of ocean views. If you’re down south, Charleston pi-

patio. Here, the first bite evokes a reverie of a breezy

azzas mingle the present with visions of yesteryear.

afternoon, where the sun and sea salt complement an

Charlotte’s chic patios offer a retreat with live music

expertly prepared meal.

and fine wine. And Palm Beach blends a charming

Sure, you can enjoy food outdoors at most restaurants, but a true patio dining destination offers more. In Nantucket, your main course is served with a side

courtyard with scratch-made Italian dishes. These five spots offer some of the most celebrated patio dining on the East Coast:

POOGAN’S PORCH Charleston, South Carolina

The scent of hot-from-the-oven biscuits permeates the air outside this historic Queen Street home. Named for Poogan, the resident dog who first welcomed guests to the restaurant, Poogan’s Porch preserves the essence of its past, from dual staircases to knotted heart-of-pine flooring. A meal inside the home will be marked by the finest hospitality, with tables nestled beside antique fireplaces and windows. Outside, first- and second-story porches offer a dining experience reminiscent of a simpler Charleston, where one could enjoy a Southern meal while overlooking the Queen Street bustle. Even today, a horse-drawn carriage will pass by as you await your supper.

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

Culinary selections include traditional country fried chicken and sweet-tea-glazed salmon, as well as contemporary options like pan-roasted duck breast, seared scallops, and butcher’s steak. However, those who have frequented the spot know to order the restaurant’s award-winning shrimp and grits, tossed with Andouille sausage, sweet onions, bell peppers, and tasso ham gravy. Whether your trip finds you hungry after a day of downtown exploration or excited for a breezy brunch on the patio, make sure to reserve your table ahead of time, as the historic home will quickly fill up with both travelers and locals awaiting an unforgettable meal. Photos courtesy of Poogan’s Porch

HUSK CHARLESTON Charleston, South Carolina

Perched beside Poogan’s Porch, Husk reinterprets classic Southern dishes in a late-1800s historic home. Antique charm is imbued throughout the restaurant, from the Queen-Anne-style facade with Victorian details on the exterior to reclaimed floors and exposed brick inside. Two sweeping piazzas face Queen Street, welcoming travelers to toast with drinks over brunch or savor a hearty dinner. Passersby may view the daily menu posted outside the entrance moments before each seating. Menu items change daily, fashioned from the season’s bounty and heirloom products available from local and regional farms. If the ingredient doesn’t come from the South, executive chef Travis Grimes will not use it in his recipes, as his cuisine is “not about rediscovering Southern cooking but exploring the reality of Southern food.” As such, the menu features playful twists such as Carolina gold crab rice, South Carolina shrimp and okra stew, and skillet cornbread with a bacon crumble. Visitors may find a wait before settling into a spot on the piazza due to the popularity of the locale, but the next-door freestanding cocktail bar offers a space to share a pre-dinner drink. Restored from ruin, this salvaged space is rich in lowcountry tradition, from the exposed brick to wide verandas overlooking the street below. As you wait for a table, sip from an inspired collection of bourbon and whiskey in a space that recalls a bygone era of Charleston’s nightlife. Photo by Andrew Cebulka Reid’s Fine Foods Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

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FEAST

REID’S FINE FOODS

Charlotte, North Carolina While you’ll find panoramic city views at Fahrenheit and small-town charm at Kindred, Reid’s Fine Foods is a hidden gem for al fresco dining in Charlotte. Founded in 1928, this specialty food store offers locally sourced provisions, fresh meat and gourmet foods all rooted in tradition that blossomed at its original location on Morehead Street. Upon opening a Providence Road location in 1931, Reid’s became a local staple. Now, an afternoon or evening at the market embodies an experience of distinctive entrees or cheese and charcuterie set to the tune of live music on the patio. Menu selections include seared scallops and blackened salmon, though the curated list of wines truly defines the experience. Before departing, it’s recommended to browse the indoor marketplace. In addition to pantry staples, shelves also feature a selection of biscuits, cakes, pies, prepared meals — and, of course, wines — so you may host an upscale Southern soiree featuring products and provisions selected with care. Photo by Smoak Public Relations

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

GALLEY BEACH Nantucket, Massachusetts

Patio dining meets the sand-dusted shoreline at Galley Beach on Nantucket. Owned and operated by the Silva family since 1958, this celebrated destination has served as a setting for presidents and stars — both in reality and in fiction novels. The culinary experience at Galley Beach is defined not only by the menu, but also the luxe outdoor dining. From seats in the open-air dining room with heated mosaic floors to tables stationed in the sand, each meal is accompanied by the water views and breathtaking sunsets expected from an upscale escape.

Owing to a focus on locally sourced ingredients, the renowned seafood at Galley Beach earned it accolades from Bon Appetit, Travel & Leisure, and Vanity Fair. Menu selections include sauteed shrimp, Nantucket lobster, Faroe Island salmon and sea scallops — the ideal pairing for a glass of wine poured from a cellar with over 5,000 bottles. From unmatched al fresco dining to impeccable service, Galley Beach embodies a culture of living and eating well.

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FEAST

RENATO’S Palm Beach, Florida

Tucked away in Via Mizner, a site listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, Renato’s personifies Old World luxury. While the warm wood interior welcomes guests for an intimate dining experience indoors, the restaurant’s allure rests in its romantic outdoor courtyard positioned amidst a blend of Spanish and Mediterranean architecture. Here, each meal is set to an enchanting backdrop of twinkling lights, vibrant florals and a trickling fountain. Renato’s owes its namesake to founder Renato Desiderio, a native of Capri, Italy, and former maitre d’ at Palm Beach’s celebrated Petite Marmite. It’s no surprise, then, that the Continental cuisine reveals an Italian flair. Homemade saffron tagliolini, ribbon pasta accompanied by Atlantic salmon, and spaghetti with fresh Maine lobster are among the dishes one can expect to enjoy over a glass of wine in the charming courtyard. After a meal, it’s recommended to explore Worth Avenue, where upscale boutiques and galleries capture the sophistication and grace of quintessential Palm Beach.

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

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S AV O R

HISTORY MEETS THE SOUTHERN STEAKHOUSE AT

SUPPERLAND By Jessica Swannie Photos by Jim Schmid The COVID-19 pandemic can’t stop Charlotte’s Jamie Brown and Jeff Tonidandel. Not only are they the loving parents of three children, but they also own some of Charlotte’s most celebrated restaurants under the Tonidandel-Brown Restaurant Group, including Haberdish, Crepe Cellar Kitchen & Pub, Growlers Pourhouse, Reigning Doughnuts and the latest Supperland.

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

TASTE are very far off and during the summer, when there was a lot of construction the oversight was a bit challenging.” Despite a few obstacles along the way, Brown and Tonidanel debut their newest concept, set in former Plaza Midwood church buildings fabricated by the first Church of Christ congregation beginning in 1938. When the congregation first purchased the land, it could only afford to build a small structure for its early services. After years of saving, a second structure was built on the land in 1956. “For me, it was really important to try to bring forward the history of the building because there’s no hiding that it’s a church. When you look at it, it looks like a church,” Brown said. “I think The newest concept came to fruition prior to the onset of COVID-19, and the duo were committed to seeing it through. “Working to open a restaurant during a pandemic has been really, well, strange in a lot of ways,” Brown said. “Lead times

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

leaning into something that has a very apparent history is better than just ignoring it or hiding it. We don’t want to hide it — the building itself is gorgeous. So in some ways, we’ve tried to keep that history alive.”

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Instead of the sectioned-off layout typical in a restaurant setting, the interior was intentionally kept as one, large sweeping space, similar to how it would feel to walk into a church. Diners will enjoy meals in nook-type areas complemented by high ceilings, wide windows, and double-stained floors. The aisle running down the center of the building will draw the eye to the raised kitchen, similar to how all eyes would rest on a preacher in the front of a church service. “We had toyed with the idea of painting the building, but we wanted to hold onto as much as we can to keep the story and the original look of it in place, so we elected not to paint it,” Brown said. Southern-steakhouse-style menu selections will be cooked on a 14-foot fire grill and inside a brick-fire oven and will include options such as chicken, steak, lobster, fish, and vegetarian dishes. The real star will accompany the main courses — Brown and Tonidandel decided to lean into the idea of a church potluck for sides. “It’s beautiful, it’s colorful and it’s fun, and it allows our chefs to really get creative,” Brown said.

Supperland, 1212 The Plaza, Charlotte NC

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

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MIXOLOGY

HAPPY HOUR DRINKS FOR A LITTLE AL FRESCO FUN

The Colony Hotel recently announced the launch of a new craft cocktail menu created in partnership with Miami mixologists Bar Lab — perfect for lounging by the pool in Palm Beach, or at least making you feel like you’re there.

MONKEY BUSINESS Ingredients: • Vodka of choice 1.5 oz • Sweetened Mango Puree 1 oz • Lime 1 oz • Ginger Beer : Top • Shake with Mint Instructions: Place all ingredients minus Ginger Beer into small shaker tin. Add ice and shake for 5 seconds. Strain into a Collins glass with fresh ice. Top with Ginger beer. Garnish with mint boutique, dehydrated Lime wheel and mango slice.

Eau Palm Beach brings a new sense of style with new-fashioned luxury that is more relaxed. Eau is situated on a private beach on seven acres of oceanfront; if you want to feel like you’re there, make their Pineapple Infused Margarita.

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

MIXOLOGY

HEMINGWAY DAIQUIRI Capturing the breezy, subtropical climate, laid-back lifestyle

Square, where historic Duval Street begins the old town expe-

and celebrated history and charm of Key West, the Hemingway

rience, the resort’s signature cocktail delivers the perfect mix of

Daiquiri takes readers to Ocean Key Resort & Spa, a luxurious

warm breezes, sunset celebrations, relaxation and revelry with

oceanfront property located in the heart of America’s South-

an easy-to-make recipe from home.

ernmost island. Nestled between Key West Harbor and Mallory Ingredients:

Instructions:

• 2 oz. Bacardi Superior Rum

Strain over crushed ice in a double old

• 1 oz. Grapefruit Juice

fashioned glass, and garnish with a

• 1 oz. Lime Juice • 0.5 oz. Cane Syrup

grapefruit slice.

• 0.5 oz Maraschino Liqueur

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

TASTE GUMBY SLUMBER Perfectly capturing the essence of the resort’s “Get Lost” motto the tropical “Gumby Slumber” is the signature cocktail at Little Palm Island Resort & Spa, the 4-acre, private island resort located discreetly off the fabled coastline of the Florida Keys. A best-kept secret among U.S. presidents and celebrities alike, the resort recently reopened March 2020, unveiling a complete design makeover. The ultra-luxe resort now boasts: 30 British West Indies-inspired thatchedroof bungalow suites, a world-class spa with two-story atrium and carved architectural details, and the property’s signature ‘Dining Room’ restaurant, enhanced to encompass sweeping views of the ocean. Ingredients: • 1 part pineapple juice • 1 part cranberry juice • 1 part orange juice • 1 part Captain Morgan Spiced Rum • 1 part Parrot Bay Rum • Fresh coconut Instructions: Mix ingredients and serve chilled. Garnish with fresh coconut. For an extra kick, marinate the coconut garnish in 151 Rum.

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

MIXOLOGY

ART & CULTURE

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

ART & CULTURE

NAVIGATING THE WORLD OF ONLINE ART ACQUISITION By Nelia Verano

The coronavirus pandemic, and

Just as walking into a gallery can be

the resulting quarantine, caused

overwhelming, so is buying art online,

monumental shifts in so many

especially if you are a novice collector or

aspects of our lives, including

have decided that it’s the only way you

our behaviors and priorities as

can collect during this season in your

consumers. When in-person con-

life (or, say, during a pandemic). The

sumerism came to a screeching

biggest hurdle for most of us who want

halt and we were forced to remain

genuine engagement with art and art-

inside of our homes for unprece-

ists is time, proximity to physical spaces

dented lengths of time, we real-

selling or showing art, and the lack of

ized just how much our homes—

expertise. Couple those factors with the

which quickly doubled as our

inability to leave our homes, and it’s no

work, school, and entertainment

wonder that online art acquisition sky-

spaces—contribute to a joyful and

rocketed in the last half of 2020. Thank-

meaningful existence (or not). Suddenly, there was an urgency to

fully, e-commerce for art sales was highly developed long before

create surroundings that spark joy and provide the comfort and

the pandemic, and buying art online has never been easier or more

meaning we so desperately need not only during a quarantine, but

convenient. Here are a few tips to begin (or improve) your online

all the time. For many, a critical missing component to that was

art acquisition process. Look, learn, repeat. Begin with the intent to learn as much as

art. Que the Internet. The art industry, and collecting online, has

possible, and do so with well-established online platforms for art

seen astronomical change and growth in the last 20 years. E-com-

acquisition. While there are many great options, my personal,

merce and social media have expanded access and exposure to art

go-to resource is Artsy, which is a host site for thoroughly vetted,

and artists in unprecedented ways, and the virtual art world con-

reputable galleries and dealers offering more than 1 million works

tinues to serve as a critical place for broadening art’s reach and im-

of art offered at a wide range of prices. Artsy is amazing because it

pact—for many it is the only place that can happen. That unmatch-

allows you to customize your searches to build an online collection

able access, along with the convenience of buying online sans the

of artists, works, movements, and genres you love, gives you the

intimidation phenomenon when walking into galleries, translated

option to save artists’ works and galleries directly on your profile,

to an astounding $4.82 billion in art sales online in 2019, and con-

and grants access to thousands of exhibitions and art fairs without

sistently accounts for more than 30% of art sales overall.

stepping foot outside your home. Each work shown in Artsy is ac-

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

companied by a full biography of the artist and often a description

room. Many times, high-resolution images won’t adequately show

of the work in which you are considering. I find this especially im-

texture, cracks, tiny lines, and nuances of paintings and works

portant in helping connect the work to the artist and subsequently

on paper, so you can even request close-up’s of the work with an

to my life. Do you share common passions, values, or social drivers

I-phone. Galleries are accustomed to working with informed cli-

with the artist? Is the artist located in a place or did he/she live

ents who want to make smart investments of artwork, especially

in a time that you have connections or ties to? Do you share cul-

when purchasing online, so no question or request is off-limits.

tural or ethnic commonalities or interests? My favorite feature is

Other questions to ask during the process: is the artwork au-

the option to view the work in your own room on your own wall,

thentic? Usually this is readily apparent by the provenance and by

which is incredibly helpful when it comes to scale. Artsy also offers

doing a quick search on the gallery website to ensure they repre-

a plethora of customized educational opportunities based on your

sent or work with the artist/artist’s estate, and/or have consistent-

art interests, from online webinars to panel discussions to virtual

ly carried that specific artist. Is the cost of the work reasonable?

tours of new exhibitions to weekly and daily newsletters about ev-

An online search of comparable works by the same artist should

erything happening in the art world. Other good platforms, all of

show similar prices. If there are glaring price discrepancies from

which offer personal profiles for its buyers, include Artnet, Saatchi

one work to another similar work by the same artist, find out why.

Art, Artspace, and Exhibition A. Regardless of the platform you’re

Is the work framed and if so, is the listing price inclusive of that

using, have fun with it and get experimental with your searches

frame? What is the gallery’s policy on shipping, including insur-

and saves.

ance during shipping, and what happens if the work or frame be-

Once you’ve refined your search or have discovered a work you

comes damaged in transit? Does the gallery profit on shipping?

*think* you cannot live without, the next few steps are critically

Some galleries charge a processing fee and/or upcharge for ship-

important. First, ensure that the gallery or dealer offering the art-

ping and handling. Is there a catalogue or special documentation

work for purchase can be trusted. Ensuring this is twofold: first,

that accompanies the work? Is the work signed? Are there any par-

research the gallery/dealer and gather as much information as you

ticulars, features, or noteworthy highlights about or of the work?

can about the who, what, why, when, and where around it. Sec-

There is always a level of trepidation with purchasing artwork

ond, communicate directly and engage with the gallery. You’ll get

online, and this is completely normal, especially if the purchase is

a strong sense of the level of professionalism, experience, knowl-

a stretch for your budget andyou’re buying artwork sight unseen.

edge, and selling history of the gallery by interfacing with its staff,

It is always better when you view artwork in-person before pur-

whether that’s through phone, e-mail, or a visit (if possible). Some

chasing, and there is no replacement for engaging and connecting

galleries, forced to innovate during the pandemic, are now offer-

with art in that way—no matter how well a gallery or platform does

ing virtual tours and previews, as well as private viewings. Howev-

it virtually. However, when you go about it in the right way, the

er possible, have the assurance that you are working with dealers

world of art is right at your fingertips, and gives you access to thou-

you can trust. Of course, always trust your gut in the process too.

sands of artists, galleries, art fairs, and museums you’d otherwise

Second, ensure that the gallery can provide the following three

never know about. Spending the time perusing, looking, and hon-

things: the provenance of the artwork (the path and story of the

ing in on artists and art is a valuable process in of itself, because it

work, from its origination until today); a condition report of the

helps you become a more savvy, discerning collector, teaches you

work, which shares detailed information on the work’s overall con-

about your tastes and desires, and gives you the knowledge you

dition (this report includes descriptions of any damage, scratches,

need to make wise online art purchases. And wisdom, as we all

tears, fading, stains, etc.); and multiple photos of the work. Upon

know, is never a bad investment.

your inquiry, most sellers will immediately provide a high-resolution photo of the work by itself, but be sure to ask for a photo

Nelia Verano is owner of Nelia Verano LLC, an art advisory

of the work in its frame (if it is framed), a photo of the work hung

and home styling firm in Charlotte, North Carolina.

on the wall, and perhaps a photo of the work “staged” in a living

To inquire about Nelia’s services, please visit her website at

or office space, to get a sense of how the work looks in an actual

www.neliaverano.com or e-mail nelia.verano@gmail.com. Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

ART & CULTURE

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

WHEN WALLS TALK: THE GROWING PROMINENCE OF STREET ART By Nelia Verano Murals may save us. They are excellent tools to transform spaces into places. They give us pause, catch our eye, and show us other perspectives. Being one of the oldest human art forms, this is how we’ve shown each other who we are and what we value. We know that this current wave of wallbased public art has the power to both elevate Charlotte art culture to national prominence and give emerging and underserved communities and people a voice in the conversation, and a seat at the creative table. –Mike Wirth, Co-Founder, Talking Walls Charlotte

photo by Brian Twitty

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

ART & CULTURE Murals, often called street art, are defined as artwork

Murals are finally getting overdue recognition as an import-

painted or applied directly to a permanent surface. They

ant genre of mainstream contemporary art, especially with

have remained the most common form of self-expression

the rise in prominence of well-known, respected street artists

since the beginning of human creativity, and can be found

like Shepard Fairey and Banksy. But that acceptance has not

in almost every established community across the world.

been built without a hard fight for funding, relevance, and sus-

Murals began as cave paintings in Paleolithic times, moved

tainability amidst the legalities and more broadly-accepted,

into the frescoes of the Italian Renaissance era, rose to new

traditional channels of creation. Thankfully, more public and

levels of prominence during the Mexican Mural Movement,

private entities than ever before are recognizing the impact

and again in the graffiti-laden subway stations of New

murals and public art have on building cultural awareness and

York—no period of history has ever been absent of murals.

equity, providing more access to art experiences, and adding

While the approach, process, and types of street art have

dynamism and richness to otherwise colorless cityscapes.

evolved over time, the common thread in all of them is their

We take a look inside two cities whose artistic and corporate

transformative impact on public places, and their ability to

leaders use murals in groundbreaking ways, and where street

reflect a community’s artistic landscape while communicat-

art serves as a testament to how it can unite and revitalize

ing powerful messages of unity and responses to any num-

communities while placing big stakes in the ground for artistic

ber of social issues.

and cultural awareness, exposure, and experiences.

WYNWOOD WALLS: MIAMI, FLORIDA

Ashop Crew Mural At The Wynwood Walls Photographed By Nika Kramer Courtesy Of Goldman Properties

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

ART & CULTURE

Jonone Mural At The Wynwood Walls, Photographed By Nika Kramer Courtesy Of Goldman Properties

If there ever was a story about the true power of art’s im-

for creatives from all over the world to add color, depth, and

pact, this is the one. Wynwood Walls, often coined as the Ur-

life to this once-struggling neighborhood resulted in an as-

ban Graffiti Art Museum of Miami, is located in the eclectic

tounding 80,000 square feet and 50 street blocks of vivid

Wynwood, originally a borough for Caribbean immigrants

murals featuring 50 artists from 16 countries. It didn’t stop

and Miami’s garment district. Following more than a decade

there. The mural project, now in its 12th year as an interna-

of economic depression, developers and property owners

tionally recognized mecca for the creative class, has served

made a commitment to revitalize the delipidated, neglect-

as the catalyst for the establishment of restaurants, retail-

ed neighborhood—but it was the art that brought the true

ers, art galleries, and antique shops, and is a thriving, funky,

transformation in the early millennium, with the arrival of

unique hub for people from all walks of life.

Art Basel each December (the world’s largest art fair origi-

A powerful example of the transformative nature of art,

nating in Basel, Switzerland) and the late real-estate devel-

Wynwood Walls is a not-to-miss spot during a visit to Mi-

oper Tony Goldman’s vision for the potential of Wynwood.

ami.

What emerged from this trifecta was one of the world’s most recognized places for street art, or as former co-curator Jef-

For more information,

frey Deitch termed “Museum of the Streets.” The invitation

visit www.thewynwoodwalls.com.

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

ART & CULTURE TALKING WALLS: CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA The Queen City is growing exponentially, evidenced in its

Talking Walls, inspired by the energy of Wynwood and the

consistent ranking as one of the South’s most populous and

booming creative talent in Charlotte, was begun by local cre-

fastest-growing cities in the US, and reaffirmed by the recent

ative leaders and artists as a way to celebrate and advocate

announcement that Charlotte holds the number one spot for

for public art and murals through an annual festival. Show-

millennial population growth. The arts in Charlotte is fierce-

casing a diverse range of artistic talent and backgrounds

ly matching that growth—along with the establishment of

from the Southeast, Talking Walls has significantly enhanced

the Levine Center for the Arts (home to three museums and

Charlotte’s visual appeal and cityscape by injecting vibrant,

a performing arts center), numerous new galleries, artistic

thought-provoking murals across its center city. In its 4th

spaces, studios, collectives, festivals, and residencies have

year, this grass-roots effort spearheaded the creation of al-

emerged. Additionally, Charlotte has never been a more ra-

most 40 murals, as well as a number of other smaller proj-

cially, culturally, and ethnically diverse city—a testament to

ects, and has built critical bridges while sparking important

all that Charlotte offers, and its development as a world-class

dialogue in ways that only street art can do.

city where opportunity for creatives abounds.

photographed by Uncle Jut

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

ART & CULTURE

photographed by Owley

“Since the start of Talking Walls, our goal has been to bring

donation options, and held a site-specific festival in October

art directly to the public, and make it a part of the everyday

2020, where observers and artists could spread out in a large,

lives of the community and the city’s landscape,” says Sam

open-air format in one place.

Guzzie, co-founder and current chairwoman. “Our priorities

Talking Walls is just getting started, and remains one of

are sustainability and accessibility, but at the heart of what

the most important movements in Charlotte’s artistic history,

we do is the artists we partner with and support,” she adds.

setting the tone for taking brave, bold steps toward a more

To continue meeting these overarching goals, Talking

beautiful, equitable city and world.

Walls made some important pivots when the pandemic hit, as accessibility became an even greater challenge for so many.

For more information on Talking Walls,

They established a digital platform for the movement, which

visit talkingwallscharlotte.com or e-mail Sam Guzzie at

offers citywide mural maps, artist profiles and interviews, and

samguzzie@gmail.com.

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

ART & CULTURE

MURALIST SPOTLIGHT:

DAMMIT WESLEY CHARLOTTE, NC

Dammit Wesley is an artist and muralist in Charlotte, and has founded, led, and curated several important artistic initiatives, including Talking Walls, the Durag Fest, and the Black Lives Matters mural on Tryon Street, a collaborative effort that made history on a national scale. Wesley is also founder of BlkMrktClt, a gallery and studio space that partners with and offers resources to local photographers and artists of color, as well as exhibitions and workshops. Wesley shares his unique experiences as an artist of color and as a muralist living and working in Charlotte. 1) As a multi-disciplinary artist, how did your explora-

It was lit. Seeing your peers passionate about a common goal

tion and eventual creation of murals begin? How have

and vision is very endearing. It’s the unity that Joe Biden

they evolved?

keeps talking about, of course without white supremacists,

I always felt constrained on small canvases, so I kept increasing the size of work until I could properly express every brush stroke. It got to a point where I went to a hardware store and purchased a 9 x 12 ft canvas dropcloth on which to paint. It was an enlightening experience, and I’ve been attacking bigger canvases ever since.

domestic terrorists, and QAnon. 4) Why, in your mind, are murals important for cities to support and embrace? Murals are like tattoos for a city. They tell a story of what the people have experienced. A city is defined by its culture, and murals highlight that. In the same way that billboards sell

2) Murals are often a response to social, political, and

advertisements, murals sell culture in a genuine, non-preda-

cultural environments—all art is, really. What is your

tory way.

catalyst for mural creation? Is it different from your other mediums/non-mural projects? Slavery. Everything thing I do is because of slavery. My existence in America, my European art sensibilities, the themes of racism in relation to capitalism...it’s all about slavery.

5) Are there particular muralists or artists outside of Charlotte from whom you draw inspiration? Fabian Williams in Atlanta. He behaves more as a scribe, documenting historical black moments, people, and places in the city of Atlanta.

3) You’ve been involved with and have created murals for Talking Walls, and curated and led the Black Lives Matter mural on Tryon Street, which ended up being a historically significant effort and artistic contribution to Charlotte. What was the experience of working alongside other artists for a collective and common goal?

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

6) What are the challenges with creating murals? Finding a wall. Living in a “conservative” city like Charlotte, it’ difficult trying to talk business owners into letting you paint their walls...if you can even find the building owner. On top of that, it’s extremely hard to find owners/clients who give artists the freedom to really create and just paint city skylines.

Samantha Keely Smith

Jeannine Marchand

Mariella Bisson

“Simply Breathtaking!”

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STYLE

SPRING/SUMMER 2021

READY-TO-WEAR By Sharon Jane - @itssharonjane The time has finally arrived to embrace a new sea-

your wardrobe or used this time to excitedly experi-

son, a new equinox, and a new solstice filled with hope

ment with new styles and combinations, Spring/Sum-

for the best being yet to come. With nature around us

mer 2021 Ready-To-Wear has come in full force to

awakening from the autumnal slumber, we start to

inspire us to take things to the next level, preparing us

see it stirring jubilantly with new songs and bloom-

to go outside and to go all out.

ing all around us with invigorating scents, colors, and

For this season, some of the top trending styles in-

warmth. As we savor the nature around us and every

clude exuberantly vibrant color palettes, finding inspi-

moment we are with it, we also are inspired to enjoy

ration from the past and welcoming the future, classic

the great outdoors with what we wear.

infallible denim on denim combos, laser sharp cut-

Whether you have welcomed more comfort into

outs, romantic silhouettes and breezy textures.

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

STYLE

Photo courtesy of Mustafa-Nurdogdu- Courtesy of Dice Kayek

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

STYLE

ROMANTIC SILHOUETTES Like the sweet floral scents blooming around us, the warmer clouds swirling above us, and the seemingly illusory beauty that comes with Spring, most Spring/Summer 2021 Ready-To-Wear looks channeled this unmatched romantic beauty of the season with dreamy silhouettes, optimistically pastel palettes, danceable ruffles, delicate sheer fabrics, floral motifs, and ultra-femme details such as bows, embellishments, lace, sparkly sequins, and baby-doll puff sleeves - all being a girly-girl’s paradise.

Photo Kevin Tachman-Courtesy of Carolina-Herrera

From Alexander McQueen’s sensational puff-sleeves, Chanel’s pink head-to-toe looks, Carolina Herrera’s sheer detailing, Armani’s bow tops, Moschino’s marionette Audrey Hepburn-esque princess gowns, Tomo Koizumi’s 3-Dimensional floral textured A-line dresses, and Dice Kayek’s perfectly pink baby-doll mini-dress - romance is in the air with some of the looks seen for this season.

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

STYLE

DENIM ON DENIM Unfazed, infallible, and completely and classically uncomplicated: Denim on Denim is unfalteringly a Spring/ Summer 2021 staple. Loungewear may have been our best friend for Autumn and Winter, but all throughout this season’s Ready-To-Wear collections included countless denim combinations and denim-like colors.

Photo courtesy of Filippo Fior - Gorunwa

endless inspirations. Some of the designers that showcased this trend include Burberry, Balmain, Alexander McQueen, Dolce & Gabbana, and Isabel Marant among many others.

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

Photo courtesy of Lucioni-Oberaouch - Gorunway Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

STYLE

BREEZY TEXTURES Spring has arrived with a need to switch out of our cozy structured pieces and into more easy breezy looks with airy fabrics that flow with the wind and feathers and fringe that move as we move. These breezy textures, fabrics, and silhouettes swayed their way into Spring/Summer 2021 Ready-To-Wear. As the elevating heat invites us to embrace the beloved great outdoors, some of the garments from this season have prepared us for this. These textures that were seen parallel palm trees swaying to a tropical summer breeze and the fabrics used move weightlessly in harmony with the spring air.

Photo courtesy Isidore Montag - Gorunway

Chanel included feather detailed dresses and skirts, silky capes, and flowy floor-length sheer dresses, Saint Laurent included an A-Line cape-like sheer dress with a feathered hemline, Valentino had a fringe-caped classic black midi-length dress, Bottega Veneta included the season’s iconic fringed knit oversized purse, and Azzaro showcased a goddess-like golden floor-grazing dress with cascading ruffles and butterfly sleeves. Photo courtesy of Lucioni-Oberaouch - Gorunway

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

STYLE

COLORBURST!

Photo courtesy of Miu Miu

Spring has for years on end been known symbolically and literally as the season for rebirth, new beginnings and opportunities. It is the time where flowers start to bloom and in turn sparkle an endless variety of invigoratingly vivid colors everywhere we go, leaving behind the frigid foliage shades of autumn and winter neutrals. This season’s Ready-To-Wear was inspired by this to include extra-sensory staple pieces featuring a kaleidoscope-like variety of colors and combinations.

Prismatic, magical, jovial and almost nostalgic - for this Spring/Summer 2021, we certainly saw playful and colorful combinations, brightly color-blocked looks, as well as some far-out graphics. Fearless, adventurous, and serotonin-boosting - these colorful looks were probably inspired by our being at home more thus inspiring us to experiment with outfits, play around with our closet and even a bit of DIY or perhaps because wearing our neutral-colored loungewear has become a bit too routine. Photo courtesy of Alicia + Olivia

Whatever the reason, we will not question that these colorful looks are definitely trending for Spring and Summer and the fact that this trend brings a smile to our faces.

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

Let’s brighten up our day and maybe even someone else’s with looks like Chanel’s neon lights graphic printed asymmetrical dress, Miu Miu’s candy-striped polos, Versace’s surf-ready kaleidoscope tops and ocean inspired neoprene-like ruffled skirt, Alice + Olivia’s vibrantly color-blocked and ruffled maxi-skirt, and Dolce & Gabbana’s patchwork blazer-dress and boots. The designers mentioned are just some of the many that opted to create looks that bring a bit of rainbow goodness to anyone having a gray stormy day.

Photo courtesy of Versace

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

Photo courtesy of Off-White Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

STYLE

CUT-IT-OUT Designers have been predicting what post-Pandemic styles are to look like and they expect them to be even more glamorous and sensual. This was channeled with lots of unashamed laser cutouts for a more cutting edge touch to any look. Perhaps the inspiration came from the increasing popularity of DIY since this pandemic or the yearning to step out of our homes and into the outside

Photo Jonas Gustavsson -Courtesy of Brandon Maxwell

world, like a butterfly coming out of its cocoon, with a bang - garments featuring cutouts are for sure a must for Spring and Summer. Some of the labels that included these cutouts into their designs are Alexander McQueen, Off-White, Versace, Brandon Maxwell, and Fendi.

Photo courtesy of Alessandro Lucioni-Gorunway

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STYLE

THE FUTURE MEETS VINTAGE This season’s styles showed us that there is no time like the future - and the past. With looks that ranged from each end of the time spectrum with 50’s princess gowns, 60’s A-line color-blocked mini dresses, 70’s disco-fever inspired outfits and 80’s voluminous shoulders to modernistic and impossibly gravity-defying shapes, other-world-

Photo courtesy of Lucioni -oberraouch-Gorunway

ly color combinations, dystopian-like silhouettes, and infinitely seam-less and achromatic pieces - this season escaped the present and took inspiration from the past and also freely dreamt and expressed what is believed the future will look like. Some collections took us on a journey, traveling throughout time to past romanticized eras to surpassing the final frontier and into tomorrow and beyond with a perfect alchemy of yesterday’s nostalgia and Photo courtesy of Alessandro Lucioni-Gorunway

the hauntingly intriguing future.

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

As fashion constantly looks for meaningful inspirations to create collections, it sought to look into what is most precious today: time. Perhaps while being at home we reminisced about the good old days or worked hard to build a wonderful and hopeful tomorrow filled with new memories and adventures - fashion reciprocated this feeling, these emotions, and channeled the past and the future in its collections. Some designers that channeled the past include Gucci, Moschino, Valentino, Junya Watanabe among many others and those that dreamt about the future include Balmain, Brandon Maxwell, Alexander McQueen, and Carolina Herrera among many others.

Photo courtesy Filippo Fior - Gorunway

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J I M S C H M I D LIFESTYLE CORPORATE ARCHITECTURE PHOTOGRAPHY

JIMSCHMID.COM 704.262.3687

704.737.3030

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LUIS MACHICAO

REPURPOSING FASHION DURING COVID-19 WITH A HEART ENTWINED TO HUMANITY By Allison Parker - www.allisonparkerwrites.com Photography by Jim Schmid

y first thought meeting Luis Machicao was that he is a man of great caring and compassion for his fellow human beings. Besides being a top fashion designer with annual appearances at Paris fashion week,

a professor at University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, and a thriving business owner in the Charlotte community, Luis Machicao truly cares about the world we live in and uplifting those around him. Thinking about design work 2020 - the unprecedented events due to the global pandemic have rippled through the world at large. Within the fashion realm, the design runway in more ways than one. With social distancing limiting galas, weddings, and public outings, the need for elegantly designed formal wear was put on hold. Runway events were pretty much nonexistent. With the world living inside quarantined walls, life was not the same. The humbling effect of COVID-19 opened everyone’s eyes to appreciate the basics - a loving family, caring friends, and an abode to stay home in became the focus- away from the material glitter and sparkle of life before COVID-19. As a professor at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Machicao taught a class called Product Design, a part of the fashion/media journalism school. Loving the City of Lights and wanting his students to witness the birth of fashion design in Paris’ big fashion houses, Luis had a class field trip in March of 2020. In Paris, Luis awaited the students’ arrival. Then COVID-19 hit. Field Trip cancelled. Luis was lucky to find a flight back to the United States just before the borders officially closed. Home in the United States and on lock down, Luis was not one to remain idle. He recalls, “I felt compelled to do something to help the situation for people around me. Being in the home for long periods of time can become depressing if you feel helpless. I looked around my home, I had a portable sewing machine and a lot, a lot of t-shirts.” Machicao laughed, “You get t-shirts for almost every event.”

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After graduation, he went to Paris where he could work real time in fashion to complement his education. Paris taught Luis the ins and outs of dressing people with impeccable taste and panache. Returning to Peru, Machicao found a bustling career in TV miniseries, Soap Operas and Theater. His claim to fame occurred when he was appointed to serve the President and First Lady of Peru with his fashion expertise as well as other PresiHis creative juices started to flourish - from cuts of t-shirts,

dents, First Lady’s, high ranking politicians in South America as

Luis created unique piecework masks to meet the needs of first

well as the designer for the Miss Peru pageant. His life’s passion

responders. Producing as many masks as he could sew, he sent

cut through traditional barriers as he climbed the ranks in his

them off to hospitals in New York City and Los Angeles.

home country with his hard work and tenacity.

Luis explains, “Whether rich or poor, COVID-19 has been

Soon, Luis’ talent was to be showcased on the runways of the

humbling to all humanity as it affects everyone the same regard-

world. His international fashion shows led him to eventually

less of material status. We were all caught up in quarantine, the

move to the United States of America. His travels were exten-

terrifying thought of not wanting to go outside due to health

sive, Houston, London, San Francisco, Tokyo, Sydney, Miami,

risks. It was a light in the dark to be able to do SOMETHING to

Charlotte, Milan, Barcelona, Washington D.C., Los Angeles,

help my fellow human beings.”

Rome, Madrid, and New York were all focal points to showcase

Luis heart for others has been working nonstop in the communities even before COVID-19. Active with local projects such as

his amazing works. After these travels, Luis ended up a regular in New York Fashion week showcasing his collections.

Autism Charlotte, RunningWorks which aids the homeless and

Luis is an avid art collector with pieces from the 17th century.

he is now working with Novant Project Runway for the Arts,

He loves European art, his favorite piece is an early Pablo Picas-

Luis has found a calling to use his talents and blessings to help

so.

those less fortunate.

A pivotal point in Machicao’s career was the presentation in

“I feel at home in the south, Charlotte is home for me and I feel

Spring-Summer 2014 Collection at Tiffany’s Paris Fashion Week.

I belong.” Luis has traveled extensively throughout the world

Here, he was named “Best Designer 2014″. Also, at this time, he

looking for inspiration and ideas. After his whirlwind travels, he

launched his signature perfume for men, “Homme” and women,

was able to choose Charlotte as his forever home.

“Femme”.

Growing up in Peru, his fashion penchant was in his heart

What’s next for Luis and his role in the fashion world after

from a very young age. Machicao shared with me a story about

COVID-19? Luis is eager to adapt and work within this new

growing up in Peru. He has vivid memories of his family and

normal. With social distancing creating a gap in the presence of

their beloved house keeper. She took note that Luis always has

formal galas, balls, and formal events, fashion for these events

impeccable taste choosing his clothes for Sunday church even at

can come to a halt. However, Luis sees a repurposing of fashion

the early age of 4 and 5 years of age. So, it was not wonder when

through upscale alteration opportunities.

Luis decided to buck the trend and leave college to seek a career in fashion design, his family’s housekeeper was not surprised. She knew he had a talent and a knack for creative clothing vision that could not be suppressed. At age of 20, Luis began to pursue his dream. He enrolled in The School of Dramatic Arts. Luis switched to study Sociology, Philosophy, Latin and Greek at University. One semester later, Luis took a trip to Paris with a friend, he had an epiphany to join the fashion world when experiencing Paris Fashion Week with a friend’s mother. It was a pivotal point on his life that changed his direction to be a fashion designer. On his return, he commenced study at a fashion institute.

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Luis notes,

curtains, pillows to lift up the spirit by making the abodes

“During the pandemic people have lost or gained weight

personal where people spend their quarantine days and

so it is critical to keep a beloved garment by reconstructing it

nights. Working to assist interior design friends, Luis is

to fit the owner at present. What I love the best is putting the

closely developing these items to keep his Atelier (work-

garment on my cutting table and completely deconstructing

room in French) bustling. Everything is evolving as the

it and putting it back together again. I love to make the gar-

world we live in is changed per the pandemic.

ment come alive again.”

Though social media and video conferencing capabilities,

Machicao adds, “A moment for a customer to redo a dress

the fashion runway would make pop into the virtual reality

that belonged to a beloved relative, by changing sizing or a

realm. People will always be drawn to the positive uplifting

detail in styling can make an older item current. Alterations

experience that a dazzling fashion can provide - a glimpse

will allow the wearer to feel a connection to the person who

into the world of glitz and fantasy which will be brought into

gave it them as well as have a part of themselves reflected in

one’s living room.

the garment.”

Luis re-opened his doors to Machicao Couture on January

Luis also loves creating wedding gowns. With the post-

1, 2021 at the Galleries 811 which used to be the old Colo-

ponement of weddings to the next year, it would a boom

ny Furniture Warehouse on Providence Road in the Meyers

year for brides to call Luis for a custom- made, one of a kind

Park area. With an aura of hope for the future embracing

gown. Brides wanting something off the rack will be pleased

the changes in the fashion world from the effects of the pan-

to work with Luis and his 32 years of experience in wed-

demic, fashion will thrive as repurposed through the effects

ding gowns. Luis looks forward to resurrecting the wedding

of COVID-19. Machicao’s positive contributions to the com-

gowns from the dark ages of COVID-19.

munity at large will raise the spirits and well-being of every-

In order to make our habitats we live in each day more a part of our inner person, Luis sees a trend to create linens,

one he encounters in his journey as a true designer of the south with true southern hospitality.

Sophisticated Design. Personal Approach.

7 0 4 .3 7 2 .0 9 2 7

| my rong re e r. c om

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OPEN UP AND CONNECT Fresh Air Entertaining Tips with Suzanne Pollak By Allison Parker Photography by Mark Staff Forget about pomp and circumstance, mad cleaning frenzies, or lavishly long dinner parties with grand, extensive menus. Today’s unprecedented times throw the indoor formality of entertainment to the wind. With the social distancing practices in the era of Covid-19, person-to-person contact changed and entertaining has changed with it.

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

Suzanne Pollak believes human connection is the key to any

was eager to hear her perspectives on entertaining in the down-

social gathering. As a social strategist known for her scrumptious

sized environment of COVID -19, and especially the art of host-

recipes and cooking, hospitality and design, and weekly Zoom

ing gatherings informally outside.

Sips with Suzanne (http://www.charlestonacademy.com/sip-

When asked about her hook for creating a fabulous gather-

with-suzanne), this worldly Charleston resident knows all about

ing, she explains, “For me, it’s about the connection between

entertaining. She is the co-founder of the Charleston Academy of

people who attend the gathering. I like to do odd numbers, like

Domestic Pursuits, where she leads and instructs on platforms

3 or 5, as it encourages everyone to talk and get to know one

designed to build relationships through interactions. Born in Bei-

another. For example, when the party is two couples, usually

rut, Lebanon, Pollak was raised in Africa for eighteen years, and

the husbands end up talking to the husbands and the wives to

has harnessed her travel and entertaining experiences abroad to

the wives.“

hone in on what makes an event rich and meaningful. As a former resident of one of South Carolina’s historical civil war hospitals turned private residence, Suzanne intrigues me. I

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

Pollak adds, “I also like for a friend to bring a new friend who has not met anyone else in the group. In this situation, people often open up and meet interesting and long- lasting friends.”

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Going from formal to informal is a breeze for Pollak, who once owned 300 place settings. I pressed for more of her secrets to outdoor entertaining with pizazz. Below are some of the helpful hints I gleaned during our talk: • Be short and sweet. Just one hour can be a lovely drop-in with cocktails and small plates • Help your guests feel your hospitality outside; if you are hosting by a fire pit, place cozy blankets or shawls on the seats • Fire in any form creates a sense of warmth, a phenomenom since the prehistoric times. Use it! A firepit, fire ring, etc., in the spring, when weather may not be quite so welcoming outside, will light the night • Serve soul-warming food, such as French Onion Soup in eclectic pottery cups of a single serving size • Have a specialty cocktail theme. For nights with a chill, an Irish coffee will do the trick • Repurpose fun dishes to serve mini sized desserts, such as demitasse glasses

Fresh air, stimulating conversation, tasty nibbles, festive drinks, and smaller outdoor gatherings are the key to enjoying connecting with others this spring. Let’s get outside and embrace the season!

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JL ayton Int erio rs

Jlaytoninteriors.com

@jlaytoninteriors

704.506.6159

BREEZY VIBES

Balmy breezes. Petal soft sand. Aqua clear water. Vibrant greenery of palm trees and tropical plants. Imagine walking into your home and feeling the relaxing feeling of being in the warmth of the Caribbean sun. By Allison Parker Interior photography by Tria Giovan

Amanda Lindroth of Lindroth Designs brings the outside in.

Lindroth Design company’s Amanda Lindroth has the magic to create an essence of the Bahamas in every project she touches. From the islands to inland locations from Maine to the California coast, Lindroth brings the Caribbean inside to her client’s homes. “I decorate to create the feel of an island holiday of leisure. I want people to feel a sense of entering a loved home when they open the door to come inside.”

Photo by Graciela Cattarossi

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Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

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A love of decorating as a young child developed into a full-fledged career for Lindroth. Working in public relations and marketing for companies such as Gucci, WWD (Women’s Wear Daily) and W magazine, she learned the different facets of corporate life. Extensive travel to places such as New York City, Paris, London gave a frame of reference for different styles along the way. Coming to settle in Nassau, Bahamas in her 30’s, Lindroth took on the adventure of designing her home, “Hope Hill”. “Hope Hill” is located in Lyford Cay. Lindroth Design company was founded in 2010. It has become synonymous with airy, relaxed, indoor-outdoor living for island dwellers everywhere. Offices are located in Nassau, Bahamas, Palm Beach, Florida and Charleston, South Carolina. Lindroth ‘s use of texture is critical to her finesse. When asked about texture, Lindroth explains, “I like to utilize varying items such as books, vases of leaves, flowers, patterns of items to create layers to pull the outside inside to keep a vibe of warmth in the home.” With a childhood in Palm Beach, Amanda has salt water in her veins so to say. When making initial contact with her, she was on a remote island, Guana Caye, working on client’s projects. Her process is mesmerizing as she has the ability to morph into a vision of design for each client.

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Lindroth Design signature island style is captured through distinct pieces. White canvas upholstery, colored prints brighten up the room. English furniture is a staple item as is woven natural fibers of rattan used to make wicker and cane. Think breezy coastal home. It’s key to understand the differences between rattan and wicker. Rattan is made from the core a fast- growing vine while cane is a particular type of weaving using rattan fibers. Caning is seen as almost a mesh in vision. It’s commonly used in bed boards and chair backs. It’s not be confused with wicker though. Wicker is another weaving technique that can use multiple materials not just rattan. It’s all beautiful intermingled together with Lindroth’s design work. Tidbits of her style are showcased in her blog, the Jolly, (https://amandalindroth.com).

Lin-

droth offers ideas on entertaining which illuminate the small and large details of an outdoor event. Start off with noteworthy bar with cool

beachy accessories like island wrapper tumblers or a shell corkscrew. For some backdrop décor, layer in the texture with sparkly votives and hurricanes filled with natural greenery. Music is also an excellent backdrop accessory. Create a playlist in advance to follow the mood of your gathering. A staple item is a glass pitcher of Ruby Red Grapefruit. This tasty beverage can be the palette for many drinks when paired with choices such as Don Julio, Kettle One and other top shelf liquors. Bridging the merger between inside and outside is euphoric when done with the tasteful designs and Bahamian aura of Amanda Lindroth’s interior design projects. Embrace the islands and step into a holiday each day you walk through your door with her fabulous styling.

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RETREAT CURATED BY

Claudia Josephine Design, Photography by Brie Williams

CLAUDIA By Claudia Ricciardone

How to Get the Designer Look

Dear Claudia,

My husband and I recently purchased a home in a historic district of a charming town on the Connecticut shoreline. We will be starting from scratch as our current furnishings don’t work well with the architecture of our new home. I read that furnishings and décor can contribute to indoor air pollution, landfill waste, and the destruction of natural resources. I’d like to make smart choices when decorating my home. Can you help? Thank you, Charles from CT

Dear Charles,

Congratulations on your new home!

With Earth Day on the way, your question is a timely one. You are correct; unfortunately, inexpensive, mass produced furnishings and décor are often burdensome to our planet and to our health. However, there are many things you can do to ease that burden when designing your abode. As a certified Green AP, I’m often on the lookout for the most eco-friendly and sustainable practices in interior design. Here are four tips that will get you off to a solid start. Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

RETREAT

REUSE One of your greenest options is to give older furniture some love. Using antique furnishings, treasured family heirlooms, and/or existing pieces (updated with new fabric or paint) can set the foundation for a beautiful, collected look. Well-made vintage pieces give a room patina and visual interest. It can also be a very cost-effective way to furnish a home. Antique stores, consignment shops, estate sales, and online sites, such as Chairish and 1stDibs, are good places to begin your search.

BUY PIECES THAT ARE MEANT TO LAST For case goods, tables, and dining chairs, look for solid hardwood construction; however, nine-plus layer plywood substrate

INVESTIGATE YOUR FABRICS Most upholstery fabric sold today, such as polyester, is chemical based. Textile manufacturing is also water heavy, resulting in billions of gallons of wastewater a year. Performance fabrics are often treated with perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAOs). These chemicals provide stain resistance; however, according to the EPA, they are also known endocrine disruptors, have been linked to cancer and low birthrate, persist in the environment, and are one of the longest lasting greenhouse gases. So, what’s a consumer to do? For one of the most eco-friendly

with an applied hardwood veneer may be used as well for cab-

options, look for the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS),

inets and drawers, as it increases their stability and strength.

which certifies every step in the production of a material; un-

Ideally, drawers should have dovetail or mortise and tendon

fortunately, few manufacturers meet these standards currently.

joints. Make sure that the wood used is sustainably sourced and

Consumer demand for safer products will push more manufac-

not from endangered tree species. Upholstered goods, such as

turers to become certified, so it’s important to use your buying

sofas and lounge chairs, should be made from kiln-dried, solid

power wisely. Another option to consider is the Oeko-tex Stan-

hardwood frames. They should also include eight-way hand-

dard 100 certification, a post-production certification that guar-

tied coil construction and spring-down cushions. The most

antees your fabric is non-toxic and safe for use in your home.

eco-friendly cushions are made from natural latex. Soy based

Using 100% hemp, linen, or organic cotton are excellent op-

latex is often mixed with synthetic latex for a more cost-effec-

tions. These can be more easily recycled post-use so that your old

tive option. If sourcing quality products feels overwhelming, an

draperies or upholstery fabric don’t end up in a landfill when it’s

experienced interior designer, especially one who is LEED or Green AP certified, can help you navigate the options.

Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

time to update your décor.

DESIGN FOR KEEPS I often hear first time clients say that they like to redecorate

updated often, costing you more money in the long run. Well-de-

frequently so they prefer inexpensive options. When I probe a

signed doesn’t necessarily mean big budget either. If you have

bit further, it’s typically because they never really loved what

the patience to search secondhand finds and get creative, you can

they started with or went with less expensive options that didn’t

pull together a green and timeless design without eating up your

hold up well. My advice? Design slowly and well. A beautifully

savings.

designed room can feel fresh for years and is typically not hard to update with a few new (to you) items and a fresh coat of no

Thanks for your question, Charles. I appreciate your efforts to protect our planet while beautifying your home!

VOC paint. A cheaply or poorly designed room will need to be

XOXO,

Claudia

Harlow Hays Design Co., Photography by Laura Griggs

If you have design queries, feel free to reach out. Send your questions via direct message on Instagram @claudiajosephinedesign. Please be sure to include photos, if applicable. Your question may be answered in my column! Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

RETREAT HOME

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RAYS OF SUNSHINE COTTAGE PLACE By Allison Parker Photos by Laura Sumrak

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Volume 5, Issue 2 | www. LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

Color is also key for Hillary’s love of light. For Cottage Place, she embraced white as the color for her walls. It reflects light well and is an open palette to layer in exquisite details of a mix or match nature. She notes it is wise to test a few shades of white within the home throughout the day, with different lighting to choose just the right one. Finally, the direction of the home in relation to sunrise and sunset as well as the location of the windows can make a big difference in how the light distributes throughout the home. With Cottage Place is a very inviting and warm home. The exquisite creation of Interior Designer Hillary Rondero of Millicent Design

Studio

(https://www.millicentdesign.com),

Cottage

Place embraces the natural light from the outdoors with natural beauty and flow. As Cottage Place is Rondero’s personal residence, the project of a remodel was a labor of love and creativity made this house a home. Her tweaks to the original home were done to make the home spacious and user friendly for her family. Looking at the photos, one can’t help but see the connection between the open air and the indoors. The key is the floor to ceiling windows which provide a picture-perfect view of the outside. It was important to Rondero to utilize all of the space available and make it as functional as possible. Embracing the outdoors was key with an active family. Features such as the pool and outdoor ping pong table are accents that make spending time in the sunshine fun and interactive for the whole family. When asked about her tricks of the trade to bring light into one’s own home, Rondero shared her favorite tips, “I like to utilize floor to ceiling windows to capture the incoming light and I find windows without window treatments such as curtains or plantation shutters really brighten up the room. “ She adds, “I only use minimal window shades in areas that are

Cottage Place facing northeast, she finds a beautiful array of dif-

private in nature such as bathrooms. It’s refreshing to look over

ferent light patterns from the morning into the evening. Window

at a home and see a family enjoying a meal together in their din-

location is also a point to consider if remodeling and adding win-

ing room.”

dows to a home to make the most of the light available. Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

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RETREAT TEE TIME

10 THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT THE MASTERS & AUGUSTA NATIONAL

The Masters is arguably the most popular golf tournament of the entire year. Played at the famous Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia, the event highlights the world’s best players at a course that is truly one of a kind. As The Masters puts golf at center stage

every April, there are many interesting facts about the tournament and its location. Keep reading to learn 10 things you didn’t know about The Masters & Augusta National.

1) THERE ARE ONLY TWO GOLF PROFESSIONALS WHO ARE CURRENT MEMBERS OF THE CLUB As it may sound like a surprise, there are currently only two golf professionals who are members at Augusta National Golf Club. This short list includes legend Jack Nicklaus and former amateur star John Harris. One of the greatest players of all time, Arnold Palmer, was also on this list, but he passed away in 2016.

2) THE LOW PRICE OF CONCESSIONS IS ONE OF THE MANY TRADITIONS Although the ticket is expensive, prices are exceptionally reasonable at the concession stands. Fan favorites like a pimento cheese and egg sandwich go for just 1.50 and a beer is only $4.

3) THE GREEN JACKET TRADITION BEGAN WAY BACK IN 1937 If you know about The Masters, then you are fully aware of the green jacket tradition. Once a golfer is crowned champion, they’re awarded the prized green jacket; one of the most sought-after possessions in the world of professional golf. But this tradition isn’t anything new. In fact, its been a thing since 1937. Today, these jackets are stitched at Hamilton Tailoring near Cincinnati, OH. According to experts, each iconic clothing item takes about one month to produce.

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4) MAGNOLIA LANE’S TREES ARE MORE THAN 160 YEARS OLD

7) THE MASTERS’ WINNER FROM THE PREVIOUS YEAR CHOOSES THE DINNER MENU

Driving into the facility, Augusta National Golf Club welcomes

Every single year prior to the famous tournament, there is a

in guests with breathtaking magnolia trees. But if you thought the

Champions Dinner that is accompanied by all former winners of

tournament had been around for a while, it’s got nothing on Moth-

The Masters. When it comes to the dinner menu, this is chosen

er Nature. Known as Magnolia Lane, the trees on this entrance

by the previous year’s tournament champion. However, the for-

road are over 160 years old.

mer champs aren’t required to indulge in the meal; they’re free to choose whatever they like from the full clubhouse menu.

8) EACH HOLE IS NAMED AFTER A PLANT OR SCRUB The Masters golf tournament doesn’t only include the world’s best golfers, but it also features some of the most gorgeous nature known to man. And the course takes its greenery very seriously; each and every hole on the course is named after a plant or shrub found on the hole. For instance, hole No. 3 was coined the name “Flowering Crab Apple.”

5) THREE BRIDGES ON THE COURSE ARE NAMED AFTER GOLF LEGENDS Another fun fact is that three bridges on Augusta National are named after golfers. The Sarazen Bridge on hole No. 15 is named after Gene Sarazen, who landed a double eagle on the hole way back in the 1935 Masters. Hogan Bridge, at the No. 12 green, is named after Ben Hogan, who shot a tournament score of 274 in 1953; that was a record low at the time. Finally, we have the Nel-

9) THE MASTERS’ LOCATION WAS ONCE A NURSERY August National Golf Club was actually a commercial nursery back in the day. The famous course boasts a remarkable 80,000 plants that have been added since the formation of the club. Some notable types of vegetation located on the grounds include dogwoods, magnolias, and azaleas.

10) THE COURSE TEMPORARY CLOSED IN THE 1940S

son Bridge at 13, which honors Byron Nelson, who had a legendary

While this legendary golf tournament has been running strong

performance on holes 12 and 13 in his victory in the 1937 Masters.

for decades, it took a brief pause in the 1940s. From 1943 to De-

6) AUGUSTA NATIONAL DOESN’T RELEASE THEIR ATTENDANCE NUMBERS As a surprise to many, Augusta National Golf Club doesn’t release the number of how many people attend the tournament. As we can assume those figures are pretty high, course officials keep that info to themselves.

cember 1944, Augusta National Golf Club closed its doors. This was done to support the war effort and improve the finances of the establishment. If you’re a fan of golf, you look forward to The Masters every single year. As you’re watching the next tournament at Augusta National, keep these interesting facts in mind.

Sources: https://golfweek.usatoday.com/lists/masters-augusta-national-12-things-you-didnt-know/ https://golf.com/news/tournaments/18-things-you-didnt-know-about-augusta-national-and-the-masters/ https://365atlantatraveler.com/things-you-probably-dont-know-about-the-masters/ Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

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Gil Hanse thought of every angle. Now it’s your turn. Play the new Pinehurst No. 4.

It’s time to test your mettle on this rugged masterpiece. Renowned course architect Gil Hanse has transformed what Donald Ross first carved out of the sand a century ago into 18 dramatic holes you’ll want to play again and again. Introducing the latest championship course at Pinehurst. 104

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The upscale approach to sleeping under the stars.

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For 42 years my quest

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real estate sales, rentals and property management – specializing in Kiawah and Seabrook Islands. “I established PHE for the sole purpose of renting villas on the fledgling resort island of Kiawah…within five years or so, through lasting relationships, I began to sell real estate predominantly on Kiawah Island. From there, business has grown and expanded to where we are today.” Pam’s experience, expertise and knowledge is unsurpassed in the area thus Pam is currently the #1 selling agent in sales volume for all of the Charleston MLS. “Our buyer representation is unparalleled. Our bank of resources can assist with any as-

people find their own special place in this landscape of rare beauty and joyful living, and we

pect of the buying process – to facilitate smooth transactions in this niche 2nd home market.

look forward to

At PHE, we tend to create lasting friendships with our clients – business relationships that

welcoming you!

endure. Our unique mix of marketing services and hand-picked staff make Pam Harrington Exclusives the natural choice for newcomers to the lowcountry.”

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EXCLUSIVE R E A L E S TAT E

215 Inverrary Rd. in Prestigious Fairwoods on 7, a gated Community adjoining Pinehurst Resort and Country Club.

LIN HUTAFF PINEHURST

REALTY GROUP If you want to

910.528.6427 lin@linhutaff.com www.linhutaff.com PRIVATE Estate on over 4 acres within the gates of prestigious Fairwoods on 7, a gated

KNOW

Community adjoining the Pinehurst Resort and Country Club. Minutes from the Historic Vil-

PINEHURST,

and #15 of Pinehurst No 7. Short golf cart ride to the famed Pinehurst NO 2 course, home of

you need to KNOW LIN.

lage of Pinehurst. Surrounded by over 1000 feet of golf frontage including golf holes #13, #14 the 1999, 2004, 2014 and soon to be 2024 U.S Open. Gracious grounds, extensive covered porches, and gorgeous home with all the charm of a southern sanctuary. Open floorpan, lavish finishes, gourmet kitchen and walls of glass surrounding handsome dining room and large Carolina Room. An elevator goes to the second floor Home Theatre and Club room with entrance to roof deck for panoramic views of golf and private grounds. Spectacular! Golfing in the area since 1978, Lin knows the Pinehurst Real Estate market. Lin is a top local agent and in the top 1% of U.S. agents nationwide. Lin’s goal is to delight her clients and her focus is on finding the right LIFESTYLE.

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UNDER C

R E A L E S TAT E

HIGHGATE | WED

8000 Wicklow H MLS 3626977 |

9002 Masters Court Waxhaw, NC, 28173

70 Lis Ive

LISA McCROSSAN

IVESTER JACKSON

704.620.0328 LisaM@IvesterJackson.com IvesterJackson.com A former TV news anchor, Lisa believes the home buying and selling process should be as enjoyable as possible. She’ll make sure you find your dream home! With her wealth of real estate knowledge and a steadfast work ethic, Lisa has made it her mission to help her clients enjoy a stress-free transaction from beginning to end. Her ded-

Senior Broker, Christie’s International Real Estate Luxury Specialist, Certified

ication to going above and beyond for her clients has included donning a beekeeper suit to help remove honey bees from one home, to project managing numerous updates at a listing in just 3 short days. Lisa provides a complimentary staging consult for her seller clients and is committed to getting sellers top dollar for their homes in a timely manner. She wants your real estate experience to be an exceptional one. She is enthusiastic, professional, knowledgeable and a strong negotiator who truly cares

Luxury Home Marketing Specialist & Million Dollar Guild.

about her clients. Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

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EXCLUSIVE R E A L E S TAT E

INSON 3429 Sharon Road Charlotte, NC

Realtor®

oducer

MEG WILKINSON

2000

of experience

r real estate, I

ssionalism with

HM PROPERTIES

patience and

g to help you

rfect home!

Meg has built a very successful Sbusiness OLD ad ,0 0 0

3 4 2 9 S h a ro n Ro a d S o u t h P a r k | $ 2 , 3 6 0,0 0 0

OLD and Shas 24 2 3 Ve r n o n D r i ve P h a r r Ac re s | $ 1 , 9 0 0,0 0 0

a wonderful

WILKINSON

oker/Realtor® 04-906-5747 hmproperties.com properties.com

reputation for taking excellent care of her clients.

704.906.5747 meg@hmproperties.com hmproperties.com In 1998, Meg made the decision to go back to working for herself and earned a residential real estate license. She was hired by one of the top firms in Charlotte, Bissell Hayes Realtor®s, and was the Rookie of the Year in 1999. Meg knew she found her calling in real estate and has been a consistent top producer ever since. She has built a very successful business and has a wonderful reputation for taking excellent care of her clients. When Bissell Hayes merged with Cottingham Chalk Hayes in 2009, Meg teamed up with Sam Cochran, a real estate appraiser for 27 years, and they joined HM Properties in July 2016. Our beloved Sam passed away in early 2018. The tradition of hard work with attention to excellent customer service and love of real estate continues on in Meg’s practice. Meg has been honored as a top producer since 2000.

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EXCLUSIVE R E A L E S TAT E

OA K S D R I V E I N M O R R O C R O F T E S TAT E S

.1 BA | 5,213 SQ F T | $2,195,0 0 0

SUSAN MAY

5428 Carmel Park Dr. Charlotte, NC 28226

Broker/Realtor®

SUSAN susanmay@hmproperties.com MAY HMPROPERTIES.COM

704-650-7432

HM PROPERTIES

704.650.7432 susanmay@hmproperties.com HMproperties.com

“With over 25 years of experience in the real estate industry, I thoroughly enjoy my career as a residential real estate agent and have learned that the most important thing I can do for my clients is to listen to what they have to say and then act on their behalf

Over 25 years of experience in the real estate

based on my training, experience and instincts.” A native Charlottean, I have also lived in San Diego, California; Seattle, Washington; and Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Buying and selling homes for my family throughout

industry.

the United States has given me a unique insight of the ins and outs of relocation whether across town or across the country. Volume 5, Issue 2 | www.LuxLifestyle-magazine.com

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Your Trusted Guide to

Charlotte Luxury Real Estate CUR R E NT LY O F F E R E D

$1.5 M

$1.55 M UNDER CONTRACT

$869,900

CARMEL ESTATES WEST CHARLOTTE

LONGVIEW WAXHAW

LONGBROOKE INDIAN LAND

Restored Colonial Home Overlooking 8th Fairway at Carmel Country Club

Stunning Brick & Stone Basement Home on a Quiet Cul-de-sac in Gated Longview

Custom Build Opportunity with Stevens Construction in a Gated Community

5921 Masters Court MLS 3618461

9002 Masters Court MLS 3698091

7399 Barrington Ridge Drive MLS 3641792

$3.0 M

SOLD

$4.8 M

SOLD

$1.485 M

SOLD

$3.0 M

SOLD

GREENWOOD

EASTOVER

LONGVIEW

GREENWOOD

8359 Providence Road Closed representing buyer

2251 Vernon Drive Closed representing buyer

8513 Longview Club Drive Closed representing seller

8333 Providence Road Closed representing seller

Thinking about buying or selling in 2021? Call me today for a complimentary consultation!

Lisa McCrossan 704.620.0328 LisaM@IvesterJackson.com IvesterJackson.com

ESCAPE

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A ONCE IN A LIFETIME TASTE OF EXOTICISM AND LUXURY by Adam Jacot de Boinod

I could hardly believe my luck as I boarded a 2x350 horsepower aluminium speedboat, laid on to deliver me across the choppy water to Laucala, this superlative island resort. I skipped happily from Taveuni the delightful island that’s bang on the date line and is only one of two bits of land across the world, it appears (were the line to have been kept straight); the other being somewhere in Siberia. It has fabulous waterfalls and is known as the ‘Garden of Fiji’.

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For the enormity of the distance involved and the sheer height of the exoticism promised, the South Pacific is truly a sensational confection of natural beauty, infinite luxury and cultural vitality. Fiji requires an eight-hour long-haul flight from Los Angeles down either to Nadi with Air New Zealand which offers very comfortable and reasonable flights. There, at the efficiently built dock to meet me, alongside the standard wonderful singing that greet all guests in Fiji, stood the stout, patrician, General Manager, Andrew Thomson, who was to dedicate much of his time to showing me around the island. “Doctor Livingstone!”, I jokingly called out and we were to play up other duels and duets, acting out with our golf buggy drive Thatcher and Reagan and then James Bond in the lair of Dr. No as we met at the panoramic Seagrass bar for lunch.

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Laucala (pronounced Lauthala) has an extraordinary mystique not just amongst the truly well-heeled jetsetter clientele, but to the normal Fijian. They all see it as something special, unique actually. Malcolm Forbes bought it originally as a hideaway for his private interests, but on his death, it was sold in 2002 to Dietrich Mateschitz. C.E.O. of Red Bull drink company and launched in 2011 as a private island resort. He was keen to push for an even more sublime island of paradise. Improvements underway include the cobblestone roads made specifically from the best stone in Vietnam and along which everyone travels in their electric golfing buggy, a style seemingly American but highly practical.

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He has included the ‘Deep Flight Super Falcon’, a submersible, for those who love to see fish and coral but don’t scuba dive. It’s the first resort in the world to offer the experience. This is the most advanced of underwater craft, I discovered, and it was available at $2,000 per hour. With a length of 21 feet and a wingspan of 9 feet this Hawkes Ocean Technologies’ two–person winged submersible reaches some extraordinary depths of upto 120 metres. It has the capacity to fly through the ocean at six knot. So it’s only forty minutes away from the legendary dive site, the Great White Wall, which is a dazzling vertical wall enshrouded in soft white coral.

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As a guest I got to see these 360 degree views of fish busying themselves, and circling sharks, while sitting ij comfort in the craft. The shallow lagoons are home to colourful reefs that themselves play home to schools of tropical fish, such as coral trout, angelfish, lionfish, and even octopus. The submersible has LED lights and low electromagnetic fields, and so it keeps sea animals and the environment in rude health. Also there’s the addition of a wonderful 100 year-old fishing boat, having taken two months of sailing to arrive from Croatia. “Malaika” is made of wood and was built by a shipyard on the island of Krk and is of the boat type Bracera . She has one deck, an engine type manufactured by Caterpilar and engine power of 138 kW. She carries upto eleven passengers and she gets used for sunset cruises, fishing, and even day excursions for snorkelling and beach picnics.

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Set upon a private island of 3,200 exclusive acres in the Fijian Pacific archipelago, Laucala Island brings a new meaning to the term “all-inclusive resort.” It is undoubtedly beyond five-star, it is set among coconut plantations, sandy beaches, turquoise lagoons and rich green mountains. The resort consists of 26 villas and sleeps 60 maximum, attended to by 300+ staff. They lend a vibe of complete belief in the resort enjoying, as they do, the abundance of the “fruits of the land”. They all exude their magnificent dignity, reverence and grace. It is only by waking up at dawn from your private villa and jump in the sea to see the hard work that goes on behind the scenes as combing staff discretely weed the night’s flotsam. The harmony of staff and guests is palpable … all blest by nature’s providence. The philosophy is one of community. I got chatting to two waitresses. While Hamlet and Julius Caesar was on their school curriculum there are no art books to show Paul Gauguin’s work, a much more vital and fitting connection between European and Oceanic values. They were stunned as they recognized many of the themes Google Images offered of his paintings.

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The classiness of what’s on offer at Laucala is everywhere

tures. Snorkelling is the best way to enjoy them especially

to be seen. The Island's farm and hydroponic gardens make

in and amongst these renown soft coral spots. I had a hat

it uniquely 85% self-sufficient, with such rarities as its own

and some water and of course underestimated the distance

soap, papaya jam and green tea ice cream. I was spoilt with

and the heat. Nothing that a drop of iodine and tea tree oil

an evening and breakfast degustation. The food is truly stun-

couldn’t restore.

ning with the freshest of ingredients and top international cuisine.

The clientele comprise of a small Australian crowd though many Americans and Europeans come via LA. Often they

Andrew goes the extra mile in personalizing poems for the

come with a specific purpose, be it golf (the 12th hole has a

pillow. Menus are without pricing, though additional to the

beach with the sea behind the flag), diving, great jungle hikes,

stated rate are extras such as Krug, premier Cru Wine, boat-

horse-riding and every water pursuit imaginable. Some hire

ing beyond a certain reef and long distance calls. Deliveries

the whole island as Arnold Schwarznegger allegedly did re-

from Harrods take four days. There are five specific hang out

cently. Mel Gibson was photographed next door on the is-

spots: the colonial Plantation House, Beach Bar, Pool Bar

land of Qamea getting friendly with the chief. Laucala does

(where guests tend to congregate), Rock Bar and Seagrass

get honeymooners but inevitably they are tired from their

Bar. Guests can even have ‘in-villa barbecues’.

event and are not that adventurous. Unsurprisingly there is

I had the place to myself alongside a myriad of little crea-

a healthy return rate.

I shall at least dream forever of returning, as I left to the Fijian’s “Isa Lei”, their famous departure song: Isa Isa vulagi lasa dina

Isa, Isa you are my only treasure

Nomu lako au na rarawa kina

Must you leave me, so lonely and forsaken?

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THE FRENCH QUARTER INN As a recent recipient of a Traveler’s Choice Award from Tripadvisor, The French Quarter Inn received the firstplace designation in the United States and sixth in the world. The upscale inn has also received least a dozen other accolades. Travelers who appreciate its architecture, numerous amenities, and staff dedication to customer comfort consider it a must-stay location in Charleston. Guests who have yet to experience The French Quarter Inn will notice its elegance the moment they step inside the building.

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ESCAPE ELEGANT DESIGN TOUCHES THROUGHOUT THE INN The unique, hand-crafted design of The French Quarter Inn jumps out at guests as they approach the check-in desk in the lobby. From the awe-inspiring skylight to iron work shaped by hand, travelers have likely never experienced lodging accommodations quite like this.

After a long day of shopping, sightseeing, and other travel activities, guests can relax in the roomy outdoor terrace. With cool but mild winters in Charleston, outdoor seating is available all year long. Guests also have the option to participate in wine and cheese hour and partake in the world-famous Callie’s biscuits and treats from local chocolatier companies. Located in the country’s historic south, The French Quarter Inn is the very definition of southern hospitality.

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ESCAPE AMENITIES GALORE The French Quarter Inn has just 50 oversized rooms and suites available for its valued guests. Here are examples of the extras they can expect as a guest at The French Quarter Inn: • Complimentary bottle of champagne at check-in • Complimentary artisan breakfast to can enjoy in the lobby or the privacy of their room or suite • Cookies fresh from the oven and a glass of milk served each night • International newspapers and full media library available

• Exclusive on-site dining experience with food prepared by Chef Benjamin Dennis, a renowned culinary expert in Gullah cuisin • Valet parking • Ride a vintage bicycle at no extra cost • Sound machines in each room or suite to ensure a quiet night’s sleep along with sound sleep pillows upon request

The French Quarter Inn is tucked just south of the always buzzing Charleston City Market. Here the staff goes above and beyond to make sure you have a pleasant stay (even the bedtime milk and cookies and a pillow menu so you can score a perfect night of tranquility), while the outdoor courtyard beckons you to sit and relax as you listen to nearby church bells ringing. As the name hints, the hotel is in the heart of the French Quarter and is popular as it offers you the chance to explore historic Charleston by foot.

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PASSPORT TO PRIVACY by Nicole Peternel Photos curtesy of Worth Avenue Yachts and Markers Air

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Private travel has always been the epitome of

Swimming in hues of green and blue water,

luxury. Chartered planes, chauffeured cars and

feeling the island breezes blow through our hair is

exclusive accommodations are often considered

what Caribbean dreams are made of, and there is

options that are available for only the fortunate

no one better at connecting passengers to paradise

few, the rest of us left to wrestle with airport traffic,

than Makers Air. Arriving at the Fort Lauderdale

long security lines and early morning wake-ups in

executive airport, valet is ready with an immediate

order to claim a lounger by the pool. Whether it’s

greeting, taking luggage off your hands while the

the ease of accessibility or the prioritizing of health

reservation agents and charter concierge are noti-

safety, this year, globetrotters are looking to more

fied of your arrival.

personalized options for land, sea and air.

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Being escorted to the Makers Club, a private lounge for your group, you glance to the bar and see that a perfectly chilled glass of your favorite rosé is already being poured. After being guided out to the aircraft, the pilot introduces himself while you step onto a new Cessna Grand Caravan EX, the sumptuous interior providing plush seating for up to eight guests.

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ESCAPE The sparkling shores of the Bahamas is a short flight

a perfect sampling of favorite tastes while a steward-

away, offering high-end accommodations throughout

ess brings a chilled, premium cocktail. A tour of the

their islands and cays. Though the options for 5-star

yacht reveals numerous dining areas, expansive sun

resorts are plentiful, there is nothing more opulent

decks, an inviting jacuzzi and massive theater that is

than arriving in Staniel Cay, where you are welcomed

perfect for a movie night after sun-soaked days.

by the crew as you board a private yacht. Whether

Reviewing the itinerary in your little orange pass-

you desire adventure, pure tranquility or exploring on

port, thoughtfully sent to you before arrival, you see

shore, Worth Avenue Yachts will create the ultimate

the days and nights are the perfect blend of relaxed

charter experience, complete with award-winning

ease and exciting escapades, including water sports

chefs crafting epicurean delights.

and snorkeling, beach BBQ’s, swimming with nurse

Settling into your suite is a breeze, while the atten-

sharks and themed dinner parties. No distractions

tive crew leaves you totally free to relax, explore, and

or worries, surrounded by those you adore with your

excite in the freedom of the sea as you launch from

every need anticipated, it doesn’t get more luxurious

shore. The chef, aware of your food preferences, sends

than this.

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Making an impact during the COVID-19 pandemic Your ongoing commitment to our mission is making a difference for patients, families and communities as we fight back COVID-19 and cardiovascular disease together.

Impacting COVID-19 through RESEARCH Investing up to $2.5 million to investigate the cardiovascular implications of coronavirus. Helping to accelerate antiviral drugs to combat coronavirus.

Leveraging SCIENCE and RELATIONSHIPS Collaborating with national and global health colleagues. Sharing the latest COVID-19 research through our 12 scientific journals. Science volunteers provide support for health care providers and researchers.

Meeting the needs of our HEALTHCARE WORKERS

Launching free job aids for Oxygenation & Ventilation of the COVID-19 patient. Utilizing Get With The Guidelines to create a COVID-19 data registry to better manage patients and support research. Supporting efforts for remote patient monitoring (telemedicine).

Working with FEDERAL and STATE GOVERNMENTS Ensuring everyone can access COVID-19 testing and increasing the supply of personal protective equipment (PPE). Providing relief to hospitals, increasing funding for community health centers and strengthening the public health infrastructure.

Teaching how to safely ADMINISTER CPR

Establishing interim guidance and resources for CPR trainings. Supporting CPR card extension for those unable to retrain due to COVID-19. Encouraging the public to use Hands-Only CPR through social media.

Helping those IN GREATEST NEED Working with partners to nourish families, support physical activity and reduce the burden of chronic disease. Supporting local food pantries by providing fresh produce.

Your donations make a difference. Supporting our SCHOOLS and BUSINESSES Helping teachers and parents get moving through Kids Heart Challenge. Providing resources to businesses to help their employees stay healthy.

Helping PARENTS and FAMILIES Creating and curating content for survivors, those staying at home and those with essential jobs that are out working. Utilizing our Support Network to share resources and help those in social isolation.

Visit heart.org/charlotte to save lives.

LAMBORGHINI CHARLOTTE Authorized Dealer

“For every minute, the future is becoming the past. ~Thor Heyerdahl The Huracán EVO was developed to amplify your daily routine by anticipating the needs of the driver, making your day-to-day experience behind the wheel unique and completely personal. A state-of-the-art control system and innovative touchscreen easily manage the car’s functions and entertainment system. This, combined with dazzling aerodynamic design, elevate the performance and driving emotions to unprecedented levels. The future is here. Will you be ready? Schedule your Huracan EVO driving experience today!

Charlotte Showroom Now Open 6500 E Independence Blvd Charlotte, NC 28212 (980) 960-9562 www.lamborghiniclt.com