EDITION 36
LIFESTYLE & REAL ESTATE
L A R A PA R K FASHION MODEL
O L O S A FA R I S DREAM OF AFRICA
FOUND NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY OKC’S LILY BOLKA
LUXI E R E 1
LUXI E R E 2
photo by Shevaun Williams
PRIVATE JET CHARTER. SALES AND MANAGEMENT.
Live Well Fly Often FLYSOULBIRD.COM 7200 Millionaire Drive • Bethany, OK 73008 charter@flysoulbird.com • 405.787.4568
PROUD SPONSOR OF THE OKLAHOMA CITY BALLET
LUXI E R E 1
AJ Stegall Photography
OKC GALLERY 320 W Wilshire Blvd | Oklahoma City, OK 405-286-6282 wilshirecabinetco.com | wilshireclosets.com @wilshirecabinet | @wilshireclosets 2 LUXI E R E
525 NW 11TH ST., STE. 114, OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73103 KITCHENSOCIETYDESIGN.COM
LUXI E R E 3
INSIDE THIS EDITION
CONTENTS
40
PROFILE: CRIME TIME FOR LOU BERNEY
With a string of capers on paper and a new novel on the horizon, OKC author Lou Berney is stealing the spotlight in crime fiction. S T O R Y BY S T E V E G I L L
20 CULTURE: A FAMILY FOUND A new Netflix documentary follows three cousins, including OKC’s Lily Bolka, on a quest to learn more about their adoptions, and possibly their birth families. S T O R Y BY VA L E N T I N A G U T I E R R É Z
30 TRAVEL: WE DREAM OF AFRICA Expertise, authenticity and unparalleled luxury in one glorious package make Olo Safaris the absolute pinnacle of African exploration. S T O R Y BY C H R I S T I N E E D D I N G T O N
ON THE COVER FASHION: LARA PARK’S CRAFT
International fashion is all in a day’s work for model Lara Park… though while Tokyo and New York have their charms, she’s found bliss here in OKC. S T O R Y BY L A U R A N A N C E
16 WOMAN OF INFLUENCE: DR. VALERIE THOMPSON Driven by passions for helping people in her community get better jobs and affordable housing, the CEO of Urban League is right where she belongs. S T O R Y BY C H R I S T I N E E D D I N G T O N
22 ART: THE RISE OF ROBERT PETERSON It took 10 years to develop his style and reach his audience, but Lawton artist Robert Patterson is more than ready to show the world what he can do. S T O R Y BY M I C H A E L K I N N E Y
54
3 6 Business: Alias CEO Donovan Farrow | 4 8 Fashion: Designer Lourdes Chavez | 6 2 Travel: A Weekend in Tulsa | 6 9 Luxiere Property Portfolio: Oklahoma’s Exclusive Real Estate
4 LUXI E R E
Furniture & design for sophisticated living. henryinteriors.com | Brookhaven Village • 3720 W. Robinson • Norman, OK | 405.321.1000 | @henryhomeinteriors LUXI E R E 5
CUSTOM CLOTHING
Lauren Warkentine | lauren@williamandlauren.com | 701 N Hudson Ave, Suite 100, OKC, OK 73102 Schedule an appointment at www.williamandlauren.com
3014 Paseo, OKC, OK 73103 | 405.642.9494 | edensokc.com
#masterfulstyling @edensokc
6 LUXI E R E
A P P A R E L
/
A C C E S S O R I E S
/
S H O E S
/
B E A U T Y
TRUNK SHOW APRIL 21 – 22 L O U R D E S C H AV E Z F A L L / W I N T E R C O L L E C T I O N 6 4 4 3 Av o n d a l e D r i v e , N i c h o l s H i l l s • w w w. b a l l i e t s . c o m LUXI E R E 7
photo by Shevaun Williams
LEE ANN POOLE | TSO CLIENT
DITA | MICRO-ROUND
T S O O P T I C A L .C O M 8 LUXI E R E
|
405-341-6941 | 3840 S BLVD. EDMOND, OK 73013
DO YOU HAVE
6 Locations in Edmond & OKC - FREE Pick-up & Delivery Service - Call us at 405.340.3907 - www.legacyokc.com This look is available at Eden Boutique in Paseo.
LUXI E R E 9
L U X I E R E M AG A Z I N E
A NOTE FROM THE PUBLISHER T
his issue is about connection, awareness and the beautiful, poignant, sometimes complicated symphony that is the human experience. As the Luxiere team was brainstorming ideas for Edition 36 over breakfast one morning, each of us kept returning to the concept of connection: to oneself, to our ancestry, to the arts and to beauty. That feeling of deep connection may well be the greatest luxiere of all. One of the most fascinating things about life is that it almost never turns out exactly according to plan. In many cases, not all, it’s those little (or big) derailments that really chart our course, define us and help us find the path we’re meant to follow. Take Lawton-based artist Robert Peterson, for example. What started as a bit of a lark, painting, turned into something closer to a career after Peterson was injured at work. Ten years later, his artistic career is in the stratosphere, collected by the glitterati and the art world alike, selling for astronomical sums. And, more importantly, he’s found his true calling. We’re inspired by the four young women we’ve written about in this issue, too. Three of them have been the subject of a Netflix documentary, Found, which follows the newly connected, thoroughly modern family on a quest to understand the past. Our fourth, Lara Park, who graces our cover, also found herself while circling the globe, albeit in a
10 LUXI E R E
much different capacity. The model, who spent much of her high school years in Edmond, is represented by Elite Models in NYC, yet for all the glamor, she remains a solidly grounded young woman. Our Woman of Influence Dr. Valerie Thompson’s life also took a serendipitous detour, from the highstakes world of banking and finance to captaining the helm of one of Oklahoma’s most influential nonprofits, Urban League of Greater Oklahoma City, Inc. In her decades-long career, she’s made our community stronger, healthier and happier. I’m proud of Oklahoma and Oklahomans. We’re unique, creative, bold and endlessly fascinating. Until next time,
Stacy D. Johnson Publisher, Owner @luxieremagazine luxiere
/luk-zhur-ee/ A state of abundance, beauty, ease and comfort that is unique to each individual.
THOUGHTFUL, ENERGY EFFICIENT, CONNECTED LIVING CLOSE TO THE THINGS YOU LOVE MOST OKC
|
WHEELER DISTRICT
|
@wheelerhomeokc
www.wheelerdistrict.com | home@wheelerdistrict.com LUXI E R E 11
L U X I E R E M AG A Z I N E
CONTRIBUTORS EDITION NO. 36
LIFESTYLE & REAL ESTATE
KENNON BRYCE
Photographer
STACY D. JOHNSON owner/publisher JOSH WELCH
Photographer
DESIGN | Brandlink Media ON THE COVER | Model: Lara Park Photography by Josh Welch
JORDAN MOBLEY
KATI HANNA
MICHAEL KINNEY
Photographer
Writer
Writer
CONTRIBUTORS Special thanks to all of our Luxiere Oklahoma vendor partners for your contribution of time and talent to make this extraordinary resource.
LUXIERE MAGAZINE CORPORATE OFFICE
2123 N Classen Blvd Oklahoma City, OK 73106 info@luxiere.co www.luxiere.co
Luxiere Oklahoma is published bimonthly, direct-mailed to a curated readership and distributed at select retail locations free of charge for individual use. Additional copies are inserted and mailed to the subscribers of The Wall Street Journal. To request copies, please contact the publisher. For more information, visit www.luxiere.co.
ADVERTISING INQUIRIES CHRISTINE EDDINGTON
STEVE GILL
Editor
Copy Editor/Writer
email: stacy@luxiere.co phone: 405.808.1332
© Copyright 2022 by Luxiere Magazine. All rights reserved.
COOPER ANDERSON
Website
LAURA NANCE
VALENTINA GUTIÉRREZ
TJ EVERETT
Writer
Videographer/Writer
Graphic Designer
12 LUXI E R E
Advertising claims and the views expressed in this magazine by writers do not necessarily represent those of Luxiere Magazine. No responsibility is assumed for unsolicited materials. Originals of manuscripts, photographs, artwork or other materials should not be sent to Luxiere Magazine unless specifically requested to do so in writing. Luxiere Magazine is not responsible for the return of any manuscripts, photographs, artwork or other materials submitted. Luxiere Magazine shall have no liability for errors, omissions or inadequacies in the information contained herein or for interpretations thereof. Luxiere Magazine shall have no liability for any infringement of copyright or other arising out of publication thereof. Luxiere Magazine reserves the right to edit submissions before publication. Reproduction in any form without prior written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. All requests for permission and reprints must be made in writing to Luxiere Magazine, c/o Legal, 2123 N Classen Blvd Oklahoma City, OK 73106.
PURVEYOR OF HAND SELECTED TILE AND NATURAL STONE 300 W Wilshire Blvd • Oklahoma City, OK 73116 • 405.242.2227
LUXI E R E 13
PHOTO: ELY FAIR PHOTOGRAPHY
SEE. SMELL.
TASTE. TOUCH.
7646 N Western Ave, OKC, OK 73116 | (405) 242-6457 | hello@theoiltree.com | theoiltree.com 14 LUXI E R E
O ur concrete coatings provide a custom, finished look while adding functionality to your existing concrete surface. At Garage Force, our ultimate goal is to achieve 100% customer satisfaction. We want you to be absolutely thrilled with our product. Offering a full range of products, Garage Force is a leader in floor coating installation across the country. Our coating systems provide a durable finished floor that is both easy to maintain and adds value to your home.
C O N T A C T U S F O R A F R E E E VA L U A T I O N
OKC G A R AG EF OR CE .C OM | [4 05] 385 9885
LUXI E R E 15
PROFILE
THE PLOT THICKENS OKC author Lou Berney is stealing the spotlight in literary fiction
BY STEVE GILL PHOTOS BY JORDAN MOBLEY
O
n a December evening in 2018, OKC author Lou Berney saw a social media post praising his new book, November Road: “When people say they want to read a really good novel, the kind you just can’t put down, this is the kind of book they mean. Exceptional.” This was the author’s fourth novel, and he’s won a string of writing awards — Edgar, Dagger, Anthony, Hammett, Macavity, etc. — so he’s not entirely unused to praise, even such high praise … but the author of this tweet was Stephen King. Turns out Berney can still be bowled over when readers appreciate his craft. That appreciation comes in many forms, sometimes less openly effusive than King’s but implicit in association. It’s obviously a good sign when you’re being held up to the greats: As much as you’d like your writing to succeed on its own merits, it’s clearly a compliment to be told you have the humor of a Carl Hiaasen or John D. MacDonald’s sense of atmosphere. “When I hear my name next to Elmore Leonard’s or when Stephen King tweets about me, that never, ever, ever feels ordinary,” Berney says. “It’s such a rush, it’s so exciting, and both those cases just kind of blew my mind.” Depending on the bookstore or library, his novels might be found in Mystery or Thriller — he prefers to call them “literary crime,” pointing out that readers who aren’t actively seeking textual mayhem can still enjoy his books for their multidimensionality. While all are rich with detail and well-rounded characters, his first two books are energetic capers
16 LUXI E R E
with a palpable sense of zest and comedy amid the gunplay and getaways; the third is more somber and concerned with the psychic weight of unresolved loss; the latest escapes into the past for a poignant romance in the 1960s. “It’s a really golden era for crime fiction because there’s such a vast variety of different authors and works, and you can do so many things under that big tent,” Berney says. “That’s why I say literary crime: You never know how much people know about crime fiction and what’s being done there, so you just want to make sure you turn them on and not away. “I just like good stories. I’m happy to have found a nice home on the crime shelf with a good readership that also spills over into more general fiction. But I love to read, and I love to write, all sorts of stuff.” That’s been true since his sisters taught him to read and appreciate the printed word, he said. “Those are literally my earliest memories. Every time I read a great writer, I get this jolt, this burst of inspiration and creative energy. I remember that happening since I was a kid as well — just getting excited about books and about stories.” He was a special fan of the Scholastic book catalog program: “That was the most exciting day of the month for me, to get new books.” Speaking of new books, Berney’s fifth novel is not far away. “I’m getting near the end of a new one right now,” he says. “Unfortunately, I don’t have anything to reveal yet; I’m not where I can explain it, but it’s getting close.” He did say it’s in the more thoughtful vein of The Long and Faraway Gone rather
PROFILE
A BERNEY BIBLIOGRAPHY Gutshot Straight (2009) Sparks, bullets and the storytelling pace all fly as Vegas getaway driver Charles “Shake” Bouchon meets a captivating lady … who’s also a captive of the Armenian mob. Whiplash River (2012) A lovelorn Shake has gone straight and runs a restaurant in Belize — until his quiet life erupts into a tangle of old friends, new enemies and an Egyptian heist that’s perilously half-baked. The Long and Faraway Gone (2015) Partially set in OKC, this is a sweeping, engrossing story of two strangers each working to uncover secrets from their pasts that have left open wounds on their present psyches. November Road (2018) As America reels in the aftermath of the Kennedy assassination, a love story unfolds amid a tangle of moral quandaries and a cross-country flight for survival.
than the fun-bordering-on-farce of his earlier heist stories, and he hopes to have it in readers’ hands toward the end of this year or early 2023. And for the future beyond? “I’ve got another novel lined up that I’m really dying to write. I feel very lucky that as I’m finishing one novel that I had a great time with, I’ve got another one all cued up and ready to go that I’m just dying to get to — so that makes me happy. It’s just kind of simmering on the back burner in my brain.” That phrasing hints at one of the fascinating aspects of the writer’s life: At any moment of the most undistinguished day, wandering around Target or waiting in line at a Braum’s drive-through, some critical element of a future hit may be coalescing in an author’s mind.
“I’ve been writing for a living for a long time, so I’m kind of in the habit of writing a lot every day, but it never gets old when you’re writing a book and it starts coming together and the sparks start flying. Every time it’s kind of like Christmas morning,” Berney says. “The process includes a lot of dark periods, for sure, but hopefully those balance out with the good moments as well. A lot of the process [of writing] is difficult and challenging, but I never take for granted those little miracles of, ‘I get to do this for a living.’” And perhaps not so many years from now, a publisher will praise a fresh writer through association with the greats, saying, “Yeah, this new kid’s gonna be good. He writes like an Elmore Leonard or a Lou Berney.” •
Berney advises, “I would say probably start with Long and Faraway Gone or November Road, because that’s just more where I am right now. But it also depends on the mood you’re in; if you’re in the mood for a really fast, fun caper-type book, then one of my first two will do the trick there.”
Further Reading If you’re caught up on Berney’s oeuvre to date, or don’t feel like it’s time for crime, he did heartily recommend a recent read: Susanna Clarke’s inventive fantasy Piranesi. “That’s the latest thing I read that I really, really loved. If you liked Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell, this is different but it’s really great. It’s definitely in her spirit.”
LUXI E R E 17
Experience & Commitment
Let Our Talented and Experienced Team of Bankers Help You. Whether you’re searching for a lending professional who can provide you with options and advice or a suite of traditional or electronic commercial banking products, trust First National Bank of Oklahoma. Our bankers are committed to helping you succeed. 405.848.2001 | WWW.FNBOK.COM
5101 N. Western Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73118 | 10900 Hefner Pointe Dr. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 18 LUXI E R E
THERE IS AN
Evolved, Compassionate, Intelligent, Holistic Way to approach family law.
Divorce • Parental Rights • Paternity • Asset Division • Child Custody • Guardianship Spousal Support • Visitation • Adoption • Modifications
4200 Perimeter Center Drive, Suite 237 • 405.266.7770 • contact@cunninghamsafi.com • cunninghamsafi.com LUXI E R E 19
WO M A N O F I N F L U E N C E
WOMAN OF INFLUENCE:
DR. VALERIE THOMPSON BY CHRISTINE EDDINGTON PHOTO COURTESY OF DR. THOMPSON
D
r. Valerie Thompson is the CEO of Urban League of Greater Oklahoma City, Inc., which celebrated its 75th anniversary last year. Thompson came to the agency in 1993, and was initially selected to serve as director of its Minority Business Development Center, although she wasn’t sure about abandoning her blossoming finance career to work in the nonprofit sector. “I cut my teeth in corporate America, which is really different from nonprofits. I started out in banking, and then moved into oil and gas,” she says. “I got my MBA as a financial analyst.” Thompson also holds a Ph.D. in political science. She eventually took the job, in part because her husband, Warren, pointed out that heading up the Minority Business Development Center — which had been created with a grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce — most certainly was a position in the finance sector, and one that would change lives. Thompson took the position, and served in that role until 1999, when she was elevated to the CEO position. Her game plan was to spend five years at Urban League. That was 29 years ago.
20 LUXI E R E
Turns out, she was made for this job, which is actually more of a calling. To understand why, it’s important to understand her family history. She’s forever humbled by her parents’ constant support and dedication to education, and feels every step she takes is guided by God. “I’m very grateful that my family was able to provide me the opportunity to go to college. I went to OSU for my undergrad; I majored in business marketing. And then I went to OU for my MBA and Ph.D.” Her mother, an accomplished Hidden Figures-level mathematician, began as a typist with the FAA, but moved into accounting and by the pinnacle of her career was responsible for paying the entire United States Coast Guard, doing the calculations by hand. That tight-knit family support also got Thompson through her formative, if traumatic, elementary education — which she now realizes lit a spark in her that still burns bright, driving her efforts to serve the community. “I was a product of busing,” she says. She attended her neighborhood elementary school for kindergarten through second grade, but for
WO M A N O F I N F L U E N C E
third grade she was uprooted and bused to Prairie Queen Elementary at SW 66th and Blackwelder Ave. “If you can imagine me, an eight-year-old on the bus, not knowing where I’m going to go. It was horrible for me, and for my parents.” Third and fourth grade were spent at Prairie Queen, but then for fifth grade she was bused back to her neighborhood school; for sixth it was back to Prairie Queen. “Then my parents said, ‘Enough is enough.’” They moved to Del City, and Thompson attended Mid-Del schools through high school. “I would say I was two grades behind from where [I was] when I went from Oklahoma City Public Schools to Mid-Del schools,” she says. The educational disparity was undeniable. “Having the opportunity to really get a good high school and middle school experience gave me opportunities,” she says, “so I feel very blessed that I’m able to share my skills, my education, my talent experiences with the African-American community … I just feel a real need to be able to help people get better jobs, and help people have affordable housing. That’s where my passion has come from.” Thompson met Warren, now a counselor, at Oklahoma State University. It was a classic college romance: He was a football player and she was one of the first Black women on the pom squad. Their daughter, Maya, 25, is an architect and classical pianist. You can literally hear Thompson smile when she talks about Maya, and how she’s taken the best from both parents to become the impressive young woman she is. Intellectual curiosity runs in the family. Thompson’s own curious nature is a big part of her success and willingness to tackle new initiatives. Urban League of Greater Oklahoma City initiatives address education, housing, health and wellness, social justice, early childhood learning, employment, voter education and registration, financial literacy and family development. Thompson says without her incredible team, such comprehensive service would be impossible. “I work with a remarkable group of people. Two ladies on my senior team have been with me for 25-plus years, which is kind of remarkable in the nonprofit sector. Almost half of my staff have master’s degrees. They’re very dedicated and they’re passionate. And the reason why I love the Urban League so much is because we’re able to make such a significant impact on the city. “Someone said, ‘Why did you guys do so much?’ And the answer is because the need is there.” •
LUXI E R E 21
C U LT U R E
22 LUXI E R E
C U LT U R E
A FAMILY ‘FOUND’
A SAGA OF IDENTITY, FAMILY AND LOVE BY VALENTINA GUTIERRÉZ PHOTOS COURTESY OF VALENTINA GUTIERRÉZ
T
he Netflix documentary Found tells the beautiful, powerful, poignant story of three girls — Chloe Lipitz, Sadie Mangelsdorf and Lily Bolka — who discover they are cousins after taking 23andMe DNA tests. The film follows them to China from their respective home states of Arizona, Tennessee and Oklahoma, on their quest to learn more about their adoptions and, hopefully, their birth families. “I did the DNA test, and then Sadie messaged me through the 23andMe website, but I never really looked at it, and then she messaged me on Instagram. Right after that, I got a message from Amanda,” Bolka says. Amanda Lipitz, the film’s director, is Chloe’s aunt, and an acclaimed filmmaker. The girls are three of the estimated 150,000 or more Chinese children, almost all girls, who were given up for adoption, many to overseas families, between 1979 and 2015. The statistic is generally considered the result of China’s one-child policy and, in some cases, a desire for sons over daughters.
There is something wondrous about documentary films. Having a window into someone else’s life can be so captivating that, for a moment, we might forget that we aren’t a part of everything happening on the screen. We are transported. This story, particularly the deep and unconditional love between Lily and her mother, Debra, is nothing short of magical. We recently sat down with the pair at their Oklahoma City home, and in true Oklahoma fashion, they made us feel like we were old friends catching up. Behind Debra’s kind and peaceful demeanor is a woman full of adventure who has lived in Nicaragua, speaks fluent Spanish and has traveled the world. The first part of this particular adventure started when she picked up Lily from the orphanage in China in Huazhou, a city in Guangdong Province, in 2001. Debra was always open with Lily about her adoption, often telling her, “Lily, you have a family out there that loves you.” It is human nature to wonder about our individual identities, especially during our teenage
LUXI E R E 23
C U LT U R E
years — trying to find ourselves and who we are in relation to the world and those around us. Behind that, Lily also wondered about the life she and her cousins left behind in China. Found follows Lipitz, Mangelsdorf, Bolka and their families across China as they visit the regions the girls are originally from, and examines their lives in the United States. Throughout the film we see Lily and Debra going through this journey together, and at the same time separately. We often think about adoption from the adopted person’s point of view and experience, but this film shows us what real parenting and love looks like. Debra stands beside her daughter, while allowing her to express herself and grieve. At the same time, it opens the door for conversation between them to understand the impact that adoption has had — not just in their lives, but in Chinese families who had to make a most difficult decision to put their child up for adoption, or face
24 LUXI E R E
debilitating taxation by the government. During the quest of finding their relatives, Lily and Debra found so much more: They experienced China with all its colors and flavors, and did all of it while the cameras were rolling. They found new friends during the filming of the documentary, from the genealogist Liu Hao, who worked tirelessly trying to find a genetic match between the girls and potential parents, to the film crew, to whom Debra attributes a big part of the film’s success. Lipitz, Mangelsdorf and Bolka found peace together, mourned together and gained a family. Debra found a deep connection with the girls and their parents. “Every time we get together, it’s like we haven’t been apart,” she says. During their visit to China, Debra also got the opportunity to say thank you, one more time, to Lily’s nanny. In perhaps the film’s most touching moment, we see the emotion on both sides and the
nanny’s joy in knowing that the baby she cared for is now a 20-year-old woman, thriving, with a loving family. Today Lily and Debra’s relationship is stronger than ever. Lily refers to her mom as her best friend, and they both look forward to the next phase of their lives. Lily will graduate this summer from Oklahoma State University with a degree in accounting, and Debra is looking forward to retirement from her career as a nurse at Oklahoma City’s Children’s Hospital. Found was released in 2021, and Lily and Debra got to go to the premiere in New York. Its promotional poster was featured in Times Square, like huge feature films that have come before it. The girls have been interviewed, or the film featured, in The New York Times, Newsweek, The Wrap, The Hollywood Reporter and many more. It’s received consistent five-star ratings. •
C U LT U R E
OPPOSITE: Lily and Debra in Times Square. LEFT: At home with the official poster for Found. BELOW: Debra and baby Lily.
LUXI E R E 25
ART
THE ART (AND SCIENCE) OF
SANDRA DURAN WILSON BY VALENTINA GUTIERRÉZ PHOTOS COURTESY OF MS. WILSON
I
s it art, or is it science? Perhaps it is both. To say that Sandra Duran Wilson’s art is out of this world is not a symbolic statement: An image of her work is currently onboard NASA’s OSIRIS-REx spacecraft, as part of a project created for the public to have expressions of their creativity carried on an expedition to the asteroid Bennu. It seems incredibly fitting since Wilson has always walked the line between art and science. Both disciplines attempt to understand and explain the world around us, so maybe they are not different after all. In a recent conversation with the artist, she shared her history, artistic process, inspiration and more. A fascinating story, told in her own words: Beginnings “I grew up on the border of Mexico, and my father and his brother were both physicians. My mother was a nurse, which meant that my parents also worked with native healers. My great aunt taught me how to paint, and at the same time, I would look through my father’s microscope. I would paint what I saw, which was abstract, so I studied traditional oil painting on one side from a young age and learned science from another. I always liked mixing both.
26 LUXI E R E
“Art and science are the same things in so many ways. I spent many years doing outdoor art fairs here in Santa Fe, and I would meet a lot of scientists who were drawn to my works, and we would get to talk about science.” Synesthesia “Since I was young, I have listened to music and seen colors. It was an interesting perspective I had on the world. Not long ago, I read an article about it, and it said that synesthesia typically runs in the family. So it turns out my mom had the same sensations, and my nephew has them as well. “There is a traditional definition of synesthesia, and I don’t believe mine fits into that. When I listen to the music, it’s like a color light show that begins, and then I see the movement. It also comes up with numbers. I discovered this when I was doing some of my graduate work in cognitive science; I was working on analyzing data, and as I entered the numbers I would hear these songs in my head, so the numbers became songs in my head, and from the songs I would see the colors. I associate this more with frequencies because numbers and colors are frequencies, and so are the sounds.
ART
“Sometimes when I am painting, I don’t listen to anything because I don’t want to be influenced by the music. But then, sometimes, I experiment by creating music with a synthesizer program based on what I have painted. I have worked with musicians, and we have done some exciting collaborations. “I went back to school in my 30s. I got a degree in psychology from the University of New Mexico in cognitive science because I was so interested in how we view things and the concept of creativity.” Travel “I have been teaching for 15 years. I have written six art technique books, which has allowed me to travel by teaching workshops in many different countries. I have always loved to travel. Since I was little, I would get on a horse and run off into the sunset, and my mom would have to drive to the neighboring ranch to get me … I have hitchhiked through Mexico and Alaska. Now I travel more comfortably. Traveling is art, too. It will open your eyes to a new way of seeing.” Inspiration “Creative people have always surrounded me. I get a lot of my inspiration from science. For instance, I could be thinking about quantum physics or molecular space and how we can begin to use energy differently. You are telling a story through mark-making, shapes and colors. For me, the person who will interact with artwork is just as important as my motivation. I want to leave things for the viewer to enter into the world.” Evolution “I work on a surface as a painter, but I love the texture, so I continually build texture and depth on my pieces. In my earlier days, I did a lot of jewelry, so I did a lot of stone cutting, [and] you are looking at depth while looking at the stones. I wanted to bring that into what I was doing with painting, so I started incorporating pieces of cast acrylic and plenty of glass, and I would paint on both sides of that. After a while, I started working only with the plexiglass, which is how sculpture came about. I would say that acrylic painting is my favorite medium, although I love working with metals and earth.” What is art? “I think art is being fully awake. I believe art is seeing what’s in front of you, but through your soul.” •
LUXI E R E 27
Functional Medicine
Castel Santana, MD
Castel Santana, MD, is a functional medicine physician who offers a variety of services and specialized testing that provides an in-depth look into root causes of chronic disease and potential health risks. Bio-identical hormone treatment Chiropractic care Food intolerance, genetic and toxin testing Functional lab panel Gut Health IV therapy for fatigue, recovery, hydration and more Testosterone
Angela Schmidt, DC
Call today for an appointment
Norman Regional Wellness Clinic 2605 S.W. 119th St., Suite B | Oklahoma City, OK 73170
405.912.3900 Nicole Garber, APRN
NormanRegional.com
28 LUXI E R E
WALL HANGING SPIRIT WANDS Sandra Duran Wilson
OKLAHOMA CITY’S PREMIER ART GALLERY Howell Gallery Fine Art Gallery & Interior Design 6432 N. Western Avenue 405-840-4437 www.howellgallery.com LUXI E R E 29
ART
PAINTER ROB ER T P E TERSON
TEN YEARS TO THE TOP BY MICHAEL KINNEY PHOTOS COURTESY OF ROBERT PETERSON
R
obert Peterson’s raw and spontaneous abstract portraits are in high demand from art collectors and fans worldwide, including professional athletes Darrelle Revis, Amare Stoudemire, Kevin Durant, Carlos Boozer and Floyd Mayweather. He counts among his collectors celebrities like platinum-selling recording artist and entrepreneur Sean “Diddy” Combs, Lil Wayne, Swizz Beatz, Alicia Keys, Miley Cyrus and many others. His meteoric rise to the upper echelons of the fine art world began humbly, more than a decade ago, in Lawton, Oklahoma. When Peterson picked up a brush and started painting for the first time ever, it wasn’t under the grand illusion of becoming famous. When he purchased a $6 paint set and a $7 canvas, he saw painting as an opportunity for him to create while doing something he enjoyed during his free time away from work. That humble hobby has become much more to the 41-yearold Peterson. Painting has allowed him to help support his family, achieve international recognition and, just as importantly, tell the real story of Black America. “If you go to any museum, you see mostly work that highlights the good side, the good life — and tells the story of
30 LUXI E R E
ART
LUXI E R E 31
ART
Europeans and white people,” Peterson says. “If you happen to see a Black person in one of those paintings, they are usually like the help. I feel like we are so much more than help. It’s time to change the narrative.” Peterson’s work took off during a moment of intense social upheaval, a time which also saw people become increasingly interested in the works of the Black artist. He said this was brought on by the murder of George Floyd, the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement and the political, social and cultural reckoning taking place around the country. “I was creating really good work before that,” Peterson says. “But once that little window opened, it was like, ‘There were a lot of you that were ignoring me. Now I’m about to show you what you missed out on and what you need to be paying attention to.’ I think there were a lot of artists, like myself, who took advantage of that moment in time to say, ‘Watch, let me show you something.’” When Peterson first started to paint, he was also working as a forklift operator at the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company in Lawton. He would get up at 4:45 a.m. and create his art until 6 a.m., then head to the plant and work a 12-hour shift. After returning home, Peterson would often work another three to four hours on his artwork before finally going to sleep. In 2014, Peterson was injured while working at the plant and had to have his hip replaced. After rehabilitation, he was put on light duty. “When my light duty ran out and I couldn’t get cleared to go back to work, everything worked out together,” Peterson says. “My work started selling more and I no longer needed this.” Although Peterson was able to quit his job at Goodyear, it wasn’t a smooth journey; it was still a struggle because there wasn’t anything to fall back on when his art wasn’t selling. During those times, the family relied on the paycheck of Peterson’s wife, Marina, a hairstylist who currently runs her own salon. Despite downturns and struggles, Peterson never stopped believing in himself. “Since picking up the brush that first time and getting a sale, I have felt like this is what God has wanted me to do. There’s not been a moment in time where I felt like this isn’t what God has wanted me to do.” The first official work of art Peterson sold was a portrait of Andy Warhol. It earned him a $750 payday in September of 2012. The same buyer also purchased Peterson’s next project, a portrait of Jean-Michel Basquiat. It went for $750 as well. With that $1,500, Peterson took his wife on a vacation. “I did not have to work driving a forklift for 12 hours and I’m sitting on vacation on the beach,” he says. “I can do this. I haven’t looked back since.” Peterson’s 10th anniversary as a painter is in July. He says it has taken him this long to develop a style that is all his own, one he describes as “spontaneous realism; portraits that tell stories of people of color.”
32 LUXI E R E
ART
His process begins with a general idea, which comes from a story he believes needs to be told. He then commissions photographers to shoot the image in his mind, in black and white. Then, he works from the reference photos. Peterson said that by rendering the photos black and white, it allows him to make the subject matter his own, which he transfers onto the canvas. “Typically, I will go through and find out which one I love,” Peterson says. “I will sketch it out on my canvas. From there, it’s just a matter of letting
the canvas speak. I never really go in with an idea of how the colors are going to work. I just let it do what it does, and it has evolved into the style that you see now. You work it until it says it’s done. If you listen carefully, the canvas will tell you.” It takes Peterson somewhere between five days and two weeks to complete a painting. While that may seem like a short amount of time for work that can sell for tens of thousands of dollars, Peterson’s point of view is different. “You may see the two weeks and think that’s short, but I am looking at
how it took me 10 years to be able to do it in that time,” he says. “It’s not what I’m doing. It’s what I’ve done. I’ve put in a lot of work.” When Peterson lists the factors that have led him to this point in his career, he starts with his faith, then the support of his wife and family. He also says the belief that art was what he was created and designed to do has sustained him through some of his most turbulent times. “To be honest and transparent, I think what happened was I was trying to get people to notice me here in town and they weren’t. So, what happened was I just kept creating because it was something fun to do. At the time I was still working. Then people outside of the state started noticing and celebrities started buying. By March of 2013, I was doing my first show in New York City. By the end of that year, people in Lawton were taking notice.” At first, his work was just paying for itself. He was making enough to buy supplies, and pay for shipping and other expenses. Then it started to get to the point where he could pay bills with it. It wasn’t until 2020 that his career really took off. That’s when he made some crucial decisions regarding his work — after he noticed in 2019 that he personally was outselling the galleries that carried his work. “In February of 2020, after coming back from the L.A. Art Show, I ended up pulling all my work from the galleries and canceling all my contracts, and became an independent artist,” Peterson says. “I began controlling every part of my business.” One of the contracts Peterson canceled was with JRB Art at The Elms — the Oklahoma City gallery that gave him his first solo showing in 2015, which he describes as an opportunity that he’ll always be grateful for. The value and demand for Peterson’s work have increased dramatically since then. In October, his painting “We’re Gonna Be Kings” sold for $56,700 at the Phillips auction house in New York City, at the time a personal record for the highest price ever paid for one of his works. That record was soon eclipsed when he sold a painting for $60,000. Excluding prints, Peterson has sold a couple of thousand pieces of work in the past decade, a few hundred of which have been works on canvas. The list of those who collect or have purchased a Robert Peterson painting includes a who’s who of celebrities, as well as private collectors across the country — in fact, that list includes three of the top five individual collections in the United States. A decade ago, that’s something he would have never imagined. “When I hear people say they have a Robert Peterson or ‘We are going to go to this gallery because it has a new Robert Peterson,’ it still feels crazy. I’ve sold way more work under $1,000 than I have over $1,000,” Peterson says. “But it took all of that to get to where I am now.” •
LUXI E R E 33
IT'S SPRING AT SKINLAB! TRY THE NEW MJOULE LASER PLATFORM STOCK UP ON SPF PLAN YOUR NEXT EMSCULPT NEO SESSION BOOK YOUR QWO (CELLULITE) CONSULTATION TEXT (405) 436-1000 TO BOOK
34 LUXI E R E
“When you feel and function your best, so
Curis Functional Health www.drhughesoffice.com 16618 N. Pennsylvania Ave. Dr. Brian Hughes D.C.
does life.”
CIRC PILATES STUDIO PRIVATE & DUET PILATES SESSIONS SMALL GROUP CLASSES
1130 North Harvey Avenue Unit 101 | (917) 974-2616 circpilatesstudio.com
CIRC PILATES STUDIO PRIVATE & DUET PILATES SESSIONS SMALL GROUP CLASSES 1130 North Harvey Avenue Unit 101 | (917) 974-2616 | circpilatesstudio.com
LUXI E R E 35
BUSINESS
THE MAN BEHIND THE ALIAS
DONOVAN FARROW BY KATI HANNA PHOTO BY JORDAN MOBLEY
C
ybersecurity has become even more vital for businesses given recent world events, but many business owners don’t know where to begin. Meet Donovan Farrow, CEO of Alias — an Oklahoma-based company that focuses on bringing affordable cybersecurity to small and medium-sized businesses. While Farrow’s company has grown into several other markets, he continues to and always will consider Oklahoma his home. Tell me about your path to becoming CEO of Alias. I didn’t think I would be where I am today. Growing up in Anadarko, I got really into computers just by tinkering and seeing what I could do. Eventually computers became my career, as I started a job working at a help desk. From there, I worked my way through a few different businesses to become a security engineer. I founded Alias in 2010 when the field of digital forensics was just beginning to form. While working full time, on the side I was taking the occasional one-off digital forensics job. After a few years of working two jobs, I decided to take the leap and make Alias my full-time job. It cost me $40 to create the LLC, and now look at where we are. The growth has been incredible, and I can’t wait to see where else Alias goes. Oklahoma is not known for cybersecurity; tell me what makes our state home to Alias? While Oklahoma isn’t known for cybersecurity, it’s been an incredible experience pioneering and building the industry here. Before Alias, there weren’t any cybersecurity companies here, but when you look at where we are today, it’s not just us; there are a few other local businesses now doing what we do. As a born-and-raised
36 LUXI E R E
Oklahoman, I couldn’t imagine going anywhere else. Oklahoma is my home, and it is Alias’ home. While we may expand and open other offices — like our Dallas, Texas, and Richmond, Virginia, locations — Oklahoma will always be our home. Who might benefit the most from working with Alias? Small to medium-sized businesses are where we fit the best. There’s an intense need for companies like Alias: Most enterprise-level businesses have enterprise-level security consultants to help, but smaller to medium-sized businesses often can’t afford the same level of service the enterprise security consultants offer. So, Alias can fill that gap and offer affordable cybersecurity services to the small to medium-sized businesses. We can give them our full focus and be there physically, meeting with them face-to-face. Not to mention, we can give them reasonably priced ways they can better protect their businesses. Almost anyone reading this article has experienced some type of cyberattack. Do you have any best practices you recommend in the event one does happen? If a cyberattack happens to you, my best advice would be to not fix it yourself. Most of these attackers are incredibly skilled, and unless you have the knowledge regarding their attack methods and what exactly has been attacked, I would steer clear from trying to fix anything yourself. It’s better to call a professional. What has been the biggest crossroads you have come to in your life? When I was 18 years old, I had a beautiful baby girl. At that age, it took some realizing to come to terms with the fact that I had someone that relies on me. I had to grow up and be an adult.
BUSINESS
What should we expect to see from Alias in the future? Expect to see an incredible amount of growth. Cybersecurity isn’t going anywhere, and cyberattacks are only going to become more common and more advanced. Our team so far has been able to help secure numerous businesses, but as society becomes further intertwined with technology, the need for cybersecurity is only going to grow. I know you enjoy traveling — what is a favorite place you’ve been to and why is it on your top list? If you haven’t heard of it, I highly recommend booking a vacation to Leavenworth, Washington. It’s a small Bavarian-style town in the Cascade Mountains. The town itself has so much charm. Everywhere you go is gorgeous and the people were incredible. The views are breathtaking. Mountains surround the city, so it’s very picturesque. All in all, if you’re looking for a relaxing vacation with some unique scenery, this is the place. What is one habit you have adopted that has helped make you successful? I believe in being completely honest with people — that’s the one habit that has helped me be successful. Always tell the truth. Building an honest reputation has helped in ways I never would have imagined. If you’re honest and just set out to do good work and do good by people, that’s going to lead to success. Don’t try and deceive people or lie and say you can do a job when you can’t. That only works to ruin your reputation, and in a small business where you’re doing the job as well as running the business, your reputation is your business’ reputation. With the experience you have now, what advice would you give to your younger self? Trust your gut; it’s never wrong. If you have a gut feeling about a situation, listen to what your gut is telling you. Don’t think about something too much, either. That leads to inaction. Just trust your gut. What is one of your favorite little luxieres in life? Whiskey, cigars and quality time with the family. Being able to taste the subtle differences between whiskeys and [between] cigars, and pairing the two together, are little luxieres I enjoy. And of course, time with the family is absolutely a life luxiere. Between work and everything that comes with opening a business, it’s very important to me that I create meaningful time with my family. Once it’s gone, you can’t turn back time. My family is my life and there’s nothing better than spending time with them and making memories. • — Kati Hanna is a partner with The Mettise Group, a consulting firm focused on growth-stage companies and leaders. The Mettise Group completes a holistic evaluation of organizations and leaders to quickly and efficiently deliver an operating system that focuses on opportunities, best practices and solutions.
LUXI E R E 37
Master Fur Care Fur Storage, Cleaning/Conditioning, Repairs, Restyles, Custom Design
5637 North Pennsylvania, OKC | 405-242-3015
3023-J South Harvard, Tulsa | 918-742-3331
ELEVATED
Beauty & Confidence SKINCARE, LASERS AND INJECTABLES
405-888-5614 ZENAESTHETICSANDWELLNESS.COM 122 N BRYANT AVE, #B1 EDMOND, OK 73034
38 LUXI E R E
FOCUSED. DRIVEN.
PERSISTENT. REMARKABLE.
These adjectives best summarize who Dr. Bajaj is and what she represents. As a part of her ongoing commitment to supporting her fellow female plastic surgeons, Dr. Bajaj recently served as chair for the Limitless Leaders Summit. The Limitless Leaders Summit featured topics ranging from Financial Management to Contract Negotiation to Workplace Diversity, and more.
Confidence is a thing of beauty. bajajplasticsurgery.com • 405.810.8448 8106 North May Avenue, Suite B • Oklahoma City, OK 73120 LUXI E R E 39
FAS H I O N
LARA’S CRAF T
MUSINGS OF A YOUNG MODEL BY LAURA NANCE PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSH WELCH
W
hen chatting with Lara Park, you quickly realize behind her husky voice is someone wise beyond her 20 years. Her stratospheric career began with a summer spent modeling in Tokyo when she was just 16, traveling across Asia for two years for a makeup campaign and then settling in New York City. But of all the places she’s been, she finds her bliss in Oklahoma City. “I love going to Scissortail Park, walking around Belle Isle neighborhood, sitting outside at my grandparents’ house, taking a yin yoga class and just recharging,” she says. “There’s something to be said for knowing what you need and tuning it; it is calm and freeing.” Born in Scottsdale, Park spent her middle school and most of her high school years in Edmond. At 15, she was signed by an agency and at 16, spent the summer in Tokyo as a brand ambassador for a makeup campaign. “I love the Asian culture, and it gave me a feeling of home when I was there,” she adds. “There were moments of struggle — so many new experiences and lots of things I had to figure out by myself — but it gave me independence, projected me into a professional setting and broadened my perspective. It was so fast-paced, but it shaped me into who I am.” Park continued to fly back and forth to Tokyo every other month while still in high school. She graduated with a 4.0 and the very next day moved to New York City, then two months later, back to
40 LUXI E R E
Asia. “I worked nonstop in Tokyo, South Korea and Thailand and I didn’t go home for two years. I enjoyed the independence, the fast-paced environment and learning new cultures, but when COVID hit, I knew it was time for me to get back to the United States,” says Park. Back in New York City, Park signed with Elite Models, and the opportunities haven’t stopped — including jobs in France and London. She did Anna Sui’s Fall 2021 lookbook and walked in Sui’s first live runway show after the pandemic. “It was incredible, and Anna is such an intelligent, fun and witty woman who gave me such insight into the creative process and how collections are created,” she says. This past fall, Park walked the runway for another Asian American designer, Claudia Li. And it’s not lost on her all she’s gaining from the opportunity to work with strong women. “It is so inspiring to have these amazing, creative females as role models who happen to be Asian American like me — I think we gravitate toward each other.” And while Park is fully embracing where she is now, she realizes there are opportunities beyond modeling, which is why she’s pursuing her bachelor’s degree via online courses at Arizona State University. “This industry has given me such a strong mentality and strong sense of self, but I see this industry for what it is, which is why I will get my degree. Modeling is temporary, beauty is temporary, but beauty inside is forever.” •
FAS H I O N
LUXI E R E 41
FAS H I O N
In the ‘Stella’ top and skirt by A.L.C. Available at Balliets.
42 LUXI E R E
FAS H I O N
Ethereal in a floaty white top by Marella Kriss, from Balliets.
LUXI E R E 43
FAS H I O N
LIFE WITH LARA
44 LUXI E R E
Park was selected to be one of the five faces of Anna Sui’s “Phantasmadelic” collection.
Debuting on the Anna Sui spring-summer 2022 runway.
photos courtesty of Lara Park.
I don’t leave home without: ChapStick, lipstick and headphones. Now that I think about it, I’ve never left the door without a pair of headphones. Music is so therapeutic. Five favorite beauty products: Laniege Sleeping Mask—I use this nightly. Biore Sunscreen—Can’t leave the house without a solid application. Sulwhasoo Serum Activator—I apply this before using serum. Tatcha Dewy Skin Serum—This uses Japanese superfoods and that necessary hyaluronic acid that keeps the moisture in my skin. Mario Badescu Drying Lotion—This has prevented many breakouts, especially when pimples start to show up before a job. Favorite movie: Blade Runner (Yes, the original from the ‘80s!) I have such a knack for neo-noir cyberpunk and this one was ahead of its time. Favorite TV show: “Succession.” I just finished the last season, and I can say I thoroughly enjoyed this witty satire. Favorite meal: Anything involved with seafood, but my most comforting meal is Korean food. Currently listening to: I feel like my music goes through phases. Right now, I’m listening to more R&B, and Jorja Smith is all over my playlist. Favorite place I’ve traveled: The city that struck me the most was Tokyo. Which is probably why I was so drawn to it. You have the bustling, brightly lit hub which is Tokyo, and the outskirts of the city filled with temples, bamboo forests and mind-blowing shrines. The history that is deeply rooted through this country is shown so prominently with its preservation of culture. Favorite quote: “Change is inevitable. Growth is optional.” I believe life offers us opportunities to turn past or current experiences into self-growth. The ability to change is perpetual and has surprised me in beautiful ways. Best piece of advice I’ve been given: Slow down. It’s easy to get caught up with the workings of life. I’ve learned to take more time for myself which, in return, is allowing me to share more time with the people I care about. Favorite casual outfit: I’m a sneakerhead, so anything cozy and comfortable paired with some cool kicks. Favorite day in NYC: I’d head to Central Park with my headphones in, grab a matcha tea and then maybe stop and journal, then take a walk through The Met.
S P R I N G I S A T I M E F O R R E N EWA L . SKINCARE ISDIN Sunscreen SPF 50
No skincare routine is complete without sunscreen. Isdin brings expert formulations for optimal skin health when knowing the sunscreen in your makeup is not enough. The perfect lightweight sunscreen for all day use, every day.
Environ C-Quence Serum & Defence Cream
These products contain extremely active, but gentle, combinations of antioxidants. The vitamin A penetrates and speeds up cellular turnover. Over time, your lines become less visible; your pores become less noticeable, and your skin tone is radiant.
Biologique Recherche Lotion P50
Lotion P50 has been hailed as a “facial in a bottle” for decades. This multifunctional lotion exfoliates, cleanses, and purifies the epidermis, helping maintain the pH balance. With daily gentle purification, the skin becomes noticeably mattified and regenerated.
PROCEDURES CoolSculpting Elite
JASON HENDERSON
co-owner, Restorative Injectables
Get ahead at the start of Spring and be ready for the lighter days ahead in summer. The Elite can reduce fat by up to 20-25% in the treatment areas, all with little to no downtime and no surgery.
Microneedling
This treatment helps the skin pump up production of collagen and elastin, the coveted building blocks of youthful skin that naturally dissipate with age.
Injections (Neurotoxins & Filler)
Spring is the perfect time to refresh your face, this duo will keep you looking rested and refreshed for all things Spring.
IPL
This non-invasive treatment is an effective way to address concerns caused by aging and sun damage. IPL can help smooth skin tone and texture, while also improving the fine lines and dark spots.
Skinwave
Just like you transition your closet for warmer temperatures, your skin treatments need a seasonal refresh. Spring into a nodowntime treatment like Skinwave for glowing, hydrated, brighter and smoother skin.
restorativeinjectables.com • 405-849-9373 1001 NW 71st Place, Building 3 • Oklahoma City, OK 73116
LUXI E R E 45
Experienced Advocate Bringing Innovative Solutions To Your Problems. Family Law • LGBTQ Family Law • Real Estate Law Oil & Gas Law • Small Business Contracts Renewable Energy Law
W W W. H AYE SL E GAL S O LU TI O NS . C O M • ( 4 0 5) 63 5- 5 57 8 U NION TOW E R • 3 03 0 NW EX P R ES S WAY • O K L A HO M A CI T Y, O K 7 3 1 1 2
CYBERSECURITY IS MORE IMPORTANT NOW THAN EVER BEFORE. Legion makes business safer in Cyberspace. We can help your organization better understand your cyber risk and create a custom plan tailored to your business needs.
LEGIONCYBERSOLUTIONS.COM | INFO@LEGIONCYBERSOLUTIONS.COM | 844.330.7467
46 LUXI E R E
Are you eating right for your JEANS?
genes
Introducing NutriGen™ The regulation of body weight is complex and dependent on several factors. Overweight and obesity may increase the risk of many health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer. • The most complete nutrigenetic analysis in the market 384 genetic variations related to weight loss, response to exercise, intolerances and nutrients metabolism, among others, are analyzed. • An exclusive tool for healthcare professionals Fagron NutriGen is a unique tool that unravels the patient’s nutrition metabolism, only available to the patient via healthcare professionals. • Personalized diet plan A suggested personalized diet plan is generated by a complex algorithm, from more than 850 foods. • State-of-the-art technology Genetic test based on DNA micro-array technology with more than 99% of reproducibility and sensibility.
Call our office today to get your Nutrigen genetic test!
DR. LAURA MILES COMPREHENSIVE OPTIMAL HEALTH SPECIALIST 912 NW 139th Street Parkway Mon. - Thurs. 8:30am - 4:30pm • Fri. 8:30am - 1:00pm
LUXI E R E 47
FAS H I O N
48 LUXI E R E
FAS H I O N
FROM PAPER DOLLS TO IMPERIAL INSPO
DESIGNER LOURDES CHAVEZ BY LAURA NANCE PHOTOS COURTESY OF LOURDES CHAVEZ
I
magine finding, at the age of five, something you love to do — even feel called to do — and it becomes your life’s work. For designer Lourdes Chavez, an innate desire to create has paved the way for making women of all ages look and feel fabulous. “I was born in a small town in Mexico on a farm; there were no magazines or television, so I spent my time making paper dolls and their clothes,” Chavez says. “And while I may not have known at the time what it might lead to, I knew what I loved to do.” Chavez and her family moved to the United States when she was nine. “As the only girl in the family, I wasn’t allowed to go outside much where we lived, so my mother made sure I kept busy doing what I loved,” she says. “Mother had a little sewing machine and she taught me how to use it, and any extra money I had I spent on leftover fabric from the town’s seamstress so I could create more clothes.” As she began junior high and went into high school, Chavez never changed her focus or love of creating — she knew she wanted to be a designer. At 16, she began working in a high-end coat factory and worked there until she graduated from The Fashion
Institute of Design & Merchandising in Los Angeles. Trained by some of the best in the industry, Chavez honed her skills in designing, sewing and pattern making, giving her a unique perspective on the entire process. “I know all the stops,” she says. “And that began when I was little, learning different tricks and techniques. I truly believe you are born with a gift, and you develop your technique and love for what you do with dedication and practice.” After working with two prestigious houses in Los Angeles, Chavez opened her own house in 1997. “I want women to feel comfortable and beautiful and to be themselves when they are wearing one of my designs,” she adds. “Women know what they love and how they feel, and if it means changing a silhouette to give them what they need to feel their best, I do that. I want my clients happy and confident.” The ultimate reward for Chavez is seeing a new generation of clients come for their first “Lourdes dress.” She smiles, “I have clients who have been with me through the duration of my business, and they are now bringing their daughters and granddaughters to see me. I can think of nothing more wonderful.” •
LUXI E R E 49
FAS H I O N
LOURDES CHAVEZ
FALL/WINTER COLLECTION April 21 - 22, 2022
Balliets, Nichols Hills Plaza 6443 Avondale Drive Chavez’s newest collection features rich jewel tones, embroidery and beading. “This collection reminds me of the Roman Empire with gold embroidery and textures,” she says.
THIS PAGE: two looks from the Lourdes Chavez Spring-Summer 2022 collection
50 LUXI E R E
LUXI E R E 51
AT CAMERON FINANCIAL STRATEGIES, we understand that financial planning is not about numbers on a page, it is about developing a long-term relationship between client and advisor. Every client needs a dedicated professional to provide objective advice to help them make informed decisions about their finances. No two clients are the same and our advisors know this better than most. Our deep financial knowledge and years of experience inform our every decision, with only one goal in mind: your ideal future. Visit us at CameronFinancial.us to learn more.
Melinda Olbert | Financial Advisor, CFP®, JD
WE HAVE MOVED! PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS: 405.463.7952 | 5600 N. May Ave., Suite 190 | Oklahoma City, OK 73112 | CameronFinancial.us SECURITIES AND ADVISORY SERVICES OFFERED THROUGH CETERA ADVISORS LLC, MEMBER FINRA/SIPC, A BROKER/DEALER AND REGISTERED INVESTMENT ADVISOR. CETERA IS UNDER SEPARATE OWNERSHIP FROM ANY OTHER ENTITY. INVESTMENTS IN SECURITIES DO NOT OFFER A FIXED RATE OF RETURN. PRINCIPAL, YIELD AND/OR SHARE PRICE WILL FLUCTUATE WITH CHANGES IN MARKET CONDITIONS AND, WHEN SOLD OR REDEEMED, YOU MAY RECEIVE MORE OR LESS THAN ORIGINALLY INVESTED. NO SYSTEM OR FINANCIAL PLANNING STRATEGY CAN GUARANTEE FUTURE RESULTS.
PE R S ONAL I NJ U R Y L AW H E I M LE G AL SE R VI CE S .C O M 24 7 N B R O A D WAY, SU I T E 2 0 3 E D M O N D, O K 4 05. 4 4 5. 6 1 55 | D O R OT H Y @ H E I M L E G A L S E R V I CE S .CO M
52 LUXI E R E
We Don’t Sell Crowns. We Sell Smiles, Confidence, and
OPTIMAL ORAL HEALTH.
Experience the difference at Sorgen Dentistry. Wilshire Point: 7244 N Classen, 73116 • 405-946-5198 • sorgendentistry.com
LUXI E R E 53
T R AV E L
WE DREAM OF AFRICA
OLO SAFARIS BY CHRISTINE EDDINGTON PHOTOS COURTESY OF OLO SAFARIS
O
liver Nicklin, whose company Olo Safaris delivers white-glove travel experiences to fortunate travelers from around the world, values authenticity and knows his clients feel the same. Authenticity paired with delicious luxury, that is. Most of Nicklin’s U.S. clients come to him from the East or West Coast, but he’s pleased to have worked with one lucky Oklahoma family, the Kassam-Alamis, whose glorious trip we chronicled in Edition 33. Nicklin’s company is an associate of The Original Ker & Downey Safaris, the longest-running safari company in the world, with the best mobile camps in Africa. Responsible travel is a priority at Olo. Its commitment to conservation and philanthropic partners means that you’ll have multiple options for making sustainable choices and giving back to the inhabitants of this magical continent. We recently chatted with Nicklin, who goes by the nickname “Olo,” to learn more about his company, its rich history and his philosophy.
54 LUXI E R E
T R AV E L
NAIROBI’S GIRAFFE MANOR by Scott Ramsey
LUXI E R E 55
T R AV E L
How would you explain the concept of a “bespoke safari?” Combining an excellent understanding of the countries we visit and getting to know all of our clients’ requests ensures truly bespoke itineraries and a tailored trip to our clients. Whether that includes specific activities, locations, being conservation-focused or the overall experience they want from their trip to Africa, we can make that happen for them. We curate, design and deliver highly refined travel experiences that match people to places, so no trip is ever the same. Africa is a vast adventure playground, and your safari will be whatever you would like it to be: camel treks, horse riding safaris, helicopter flights to remote areas we cannot reach by road. Anything is possible in Africa. No matter what the request!
LEFT AND BELOW: Guests of the Lewa Wilderness Lodge near the base of Mt. Kenya
56 LUXI E R E
T R AV E L
ABOVE: Sometimes a private chopper is the best way to travel. LEFT: Deadvlei is a clay pan punctuated by dark, dead camel thorn trees.
LUXI E R E 57
T R AV E L
How are the trips you offer different? Being born and brought up in East Africa allows us an excellent understanding of getting the best out of the continent. Being a small Kenyan bespoke company, we have the time and energy to really understand and meet the needs of what our clients want. Being a partner with The Original Ker & Downey, we have access to the oldest safari company in the world. With over 70 years of safari experience, it has taught us the best way to get close to Africa. When you stay in our private mobile camps, you can rest assured that you’ll have the best of everything. The custom-made tents are the largest and roomiest available, with luxurious beds, en suite bathrooms and private verandas with carefully chosen views. Every camp is tailored to our guests: the menus, locations and arrangements for special activities. Tell me a bit more about the conservation efforts Olo is involved in and initiates. We have always been at the forefront of wildlife conservation and responsible tourism. Our first objective is to ensure that all elements of your safari are 100% carbon offset. In contrast to existing offset programs that focus on international flights, our ambitious goal considers every element of safaris, from game drives to domestic fixed-wing and helicopter flights to waste production to the usage of plastics and non-renewables. Our second objective is to support local communities and conservation organizations, facilitating staff and client engagement to optimize opportunities for high-impact communities in Africa and conserve wildernesses and wildlife. Each of our safaris contributes a donation to Kenya Wildlife Trust, a conservation organization that focuses on allowing people and predators to thrive. We create specific conservation-focused itineraries which give clients the opportunity to join the experts who have been performing award-winning wildlife conservation work for more than a decade. We founded Prints for Conservation at the start of the pandemic, which sells prints to support conservation organizations in Africa through the sale of art and photography.
IN AFRICA, “glamping” is a next-level experience, especially under a majestic canopy of stars.
58 LUXI E R E
T R AV E L
LUXI E R E 59
T R AV E L
What are some of the ways Olo makes travel, specifically safari, magical and stressfree for its clients? Every detail is our responsibility, from the day we pick you up to the day we drop you off for your international flight home, so you can relax and enjoy a stress-free safari. Most of our safaris are privately guided by me, Olo, or another one of our expert guides and a full-time team of employees on call 24-7 based out of Kenya. It is hard to imagine anyone who would not enjoy being on safari — even those who might not think it is for them. Exhilarating, humbling and inspiring, this is what going on safari is all about. From witnessing the wildebeest migration crossing the Mara River, to getting up close and personal with the gorillas, and meeting traditional, authentic and untouched tribes. Safaris in Africa offer a diversity of different habitats to explore, from endless savannas to snow-capped mountains, from harsh deserts to tropical coastlines. The African safari experience is so moving, so beautiful, and says so much about our place in the world that it is truly something everyone should experience. People say it is a “bucket list” thing, however, clients come back repeatedly, each time with friends, family and even grandchildren. •
CLOCKWISE FROM RIGHT: “Gorilla Face,” by Oliver Nicklin; Learning to hold a spear properly; The great wildebeest migration
60 LUXI E R E
T R AV E L
LUXI E R E 61
T R AV E L
DOWNTOWN Tulsa’s South Boston Avenue
62 LUXI E R E
T R AV E L
LUXE, QUICK
A WEEKEND IN TULSA BY MICHAEL KINNEY
A
s we get closer to resuming something like a normal routine, I recently took a weekend trip up to Tulsa to help remind me of what the pre-pandemic world felt like. There are several restaurants and nightspots that I go to regularly when I find myself in the 918. However, for this trip I decided to look for the city’s hidden gems: the cool, tucked-away places where the locals go. First and foremost: If you plan to stay overnight, which I did, you need a good base of operations. It has to be a location where you can lay your head in comfort at the end of a long day, but also one that makes the experience special. For me, there is no better option than the Tulsa Club. Centrally located in the heart of downtown, it is within walking distance of many of the city’s top-tier restaurants. More than anything else, the Tulsa Club offers a level of luxury that can transform a quick road trip into one that feels like a getaway to Chicago or Seattle. An example: the charcuterie board and bottle of wine waiting for me in the spacious suite epitomized luxury and class. Next step: If you’re like me, you will want to make sure you are impeccably groomed and feeling splendid before stepping out for the evening. You will be hard-pressed to find a better grooming shop than
Black Label Men’s Grooming, 8316 E. 61st. While a variety of services is offered, including tapers, fades, undercuts, Afros, comb-overs and more, The Clean Up ($40) is my top choice. It includes an edge up of the hairline and a hot towel beard shave with a straight razor. This option, perfect for a night on the town, does not include a full haircut; it is a service to keep you clean in-between. Before heading out on the town, the Tulsa Club offers a particularly epic and hidden experience: If you ask the right staffer, you can grab a drink (or two) and head up to the Sky Terrace on the 11th floor. From there, you can watch the sunset over the Tulsa skyline from the outdoor balcony. It’s a definite mood-setter for the rest of the evening. A hidden gem that is within walking distance of the Tulsa Club is The Local Bison (522 S. Boston Avenue). The locally owned kitchen and bar features local beer, wine, spirits and farm-fresh food. Located under an apartment complex, it can be easy to miss if you’re not looking for it. While The Local Bison is not very big and can fill up quickly, the service is stellar. The self-described healthy eatery’s menu is full of unique and flavorful dishes, including the Sweet Tea Brined Statler Chicken ($28), the Bison Bolognese ($22) and Lemongrass Jackfruit Banh Mi ($14).
LUXI E R E 63
T R AV E L
INSIDE THE INFAMOUS and elusive - Bull in the Alley speakeasy
Close out the evening at a nice cigar bar like Classic Cigars & Lounge (118 N. Boston Avenue), or maybe coffee and desserts at PRHYME Downtown Steakhouse (111 N. Main Street). While PRHYME is certainly best known for its impressive entrees, don’t overlook its dessert menu. The Chocolate Midnight Cake ($13) is the ultimate capper to a low-key evening in Tulsa. The Bull in the Alley: IYKYK In its six short years, the Bull in the Alley has become something akin to an urban myth. While many people know of its existence, pinning down information on the restaurant and bar can feel like an episode of “Mission: Impossible.” Not even Google Maps can get you to the front door, and nobody who works there is talking. Located in the Brady District near downtown Tulsa, The Bull in the Alley is part speakeasy and part steakhouse with a big dash of style. It’s obvious that the owners enjoy their anonymity and secrecy. They do not give interviews or publicly speak about their creation. They’re happy to let the food and atmosphere speak for themselves, for those who find the place. When scouring the internet for a scrap of information, you are likely to come up empty-handed
64 LUXI E R E
except for a few reviews and photos. Even its own website is of little help: it’s a picture of a chandelier and a number to call to make reservations. No menu or location. One of the bartenders told me that one day he was taking the trash out when he spotted a young lady roaming up and down the alley looking at each door. She finally came up to him with a confused look on her face and asked him if he knew where the Bull in the Alley was. Because the staff uniforms do not have names or logos, she obviously didn’t know he was an employee. He politely pointed to the little copper bull hanging over the large green door, leading her to smack her forehead at the obviousness of the revelation. While the treasure-map-style journey to find the elusive spot can be daunting, once inside, customers will understand quickly the experience is worth it. From its dark mood lighting to old-school booths, it gives off an intimate and cozy feel from a bygone era. The most popular dish on the Bull in the Alley menu is the Porterhouse Table Steak ($108). It’s hefty enough to share between two people, but the staff claims they have watched quite a few diners tackle the meal by themselves. For those not looking to devour a side of beef, Bull in the Alley also offers
Prime Petit Filet ($50) and Market Fish (Market Price) on its main menu. As far as entrees go, it keeps the choices simple. Other exquisitely prepared mainstays include Seafood Bisque ($7/$12), Shrimp Cocktail ($19), Crab Cakes ($26) and a majestic Seafood Tower ($108/$185). Do not miss the infamous hand-cut bacon ($4 per slice). Crispy and burned just enough, these go great as a side dish or on their own, especially with a glass of bourbon. The clientele that gathers at the Bull in The Alley can range from large families celebrating a special occasion to a couple on a date night away from the children. It also works for anyone going solo and just looking for a great meal and smooth drink before heading out. In-house entertainment is offered on Friday and Saturday evenings. If you can’t find the place, or can’t get in (a common problem) a number of other new speakeasy-style restaurants are popping up around Tulsa. They include Boston Title & Abstract, 522 S Boston Ave Suite B100; The Hemingway, 1313 E 15th St; and Devin Williams Speakeasy, 124 N Greenwood Ave. If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, then Bull in the Alley must be doing something right. •
T R AV E L
THE LUXIERE LIST:
TULSA EDITION Dinner Oren 3509 S Peoria Ave, Suite 161 Oren is a fruit- and vegetable-forward restaurant where much of the menu development begins with local produce. The cuisine has a foundation in French and European technique, with an emphasis on using locally sourced, high quality, fresh products. Lowood 817 E 3rd St Lowood celebrates Tulsa as a unique place with fresh pasta, wood-fired dishes and thoughtful pairings, all with an emphasis on local produce and meats grown and raised by farmers in and around northeastern Oklahoma. Try the chef’s tasting menu. Amelia’s 122 N Boston Ave In the heart of the downtown arts district, Amelia’s boasts a chef-driven menu inspired by regional and South American cuisine. Pizza Bohemian Wood Fire Pizza 818 E 3rd St Serving wood-fired pizzas, prepared Neapolitan style, all menu items are imported from Italy or are sourced locally, including imported double “00” flour, Italian San Marzano tomatoes, fresh buffalo mozzarella and Burn Co. sausage and Canadian bacon. Pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired oven at over 800 degrees. Prairie Fire Pie 1303 E 15th St Chef James Shrader calls PFP’s offerings “West Coast Inspired” pizza, made
the way he experienced it in his native home of Seattle: slow fermented pizza dough, topped with a blend of both traditional and unexpected toppings and cooked in a wood-fired pizza oven. Cocktails Vintage Wine Bar 324 E 1st St From the VWB website comes this bold promise, one the bar easily upholds: “Whether you need a happy hour with our trusty house red or a new vintage experience with our monthly curated flights, we’ve got you covered.” Basque 114 N Boston Ave Named one of Tulsa’s Best New Restaurants of 2021, Basque is a vibrant, lively spot for a cocktail. Follow it with dinner! Hodges Bend 823 E 3rd St Impeccable service from its baristas, sommeliers and bartenders. Locally sourced and roasted coffee. Hand picked wines. Classic cocktails and adapted interpretations. Saturn Room Rum & Tiki Bar 209 N Boulder Ave This bar was built on the fundamental ideas of the forefathers of tiki, Don the Beachcomber, Trader Vic and Stephen Crane. Out of respect to these time-honored traditions, Saturn’s talented team uses only premium spirits and fresh juices and ingredients to handcraft each cocktail to order.
LUXI E R E 65
Put everything in its HAPPY place. 405-509-5375 • BEENEAT.COM
&
Indoor Outdoor PLANT DESIGN
5308 N. Classen Blvd. • Oklahoma City, OK 73118 405.848.6642 • www.calverts.com
66 LUXI E R E
M A S T E R S O F T H E
unique
"We love using our creative talent, experience and knowledge to build the most beautiful, sustainable roofs possible." - Paul Goodman residential and commercial goodmanconstructionok.com 405.720.7663 LUXI E R E 67
WE DO IT ALL BUY | SELL | RENT | PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
"Lauren was amazing. We are so grateful that we used Lauren and Cherrywood for the sale of our home." - JILL | SELLER
LAUREN TOPPINS, BROKER, OWNER 4501 N. Western Ave | Oklahoma City, OK 73118 Office: (405) 768-3468 | Cell: (405) 821-4061 @topthatrealestate | @thecherrywoodre
cherrywoodre.com
68 LUXI E R E
LUXIERE PROPERTY PORTFOLIO
Listed by Joy Baresel • Engel & Völkers LUXI E R E 69
# 1 O K L A H O M A LU X U RY R E A L E S TAT E T E A M
$3,900,000 | 14275 E Waterloo Rd
$2,500,000 | 18645 E Reno Avenue
$2,450,000 | 1603 W Wilshire Blvd
$2,150,000 | 1603 Guilford Blvd
www.OKLuxuryHomes.com
www.OKLuxuryHomes.com
www.1603wilshire.com
www.OKLuxuryHomes.com
$1,800,000 | 1110 NW 2nd Street
$1,795,000 | 6149 Red Rock Lake Road
$1,499,000 | 14809 Aurea Lane
$1,495,000 | 9333 E 33rd Street
www.OKLuxuryHomes.com
www.6149redrock.com
www.14809aurea.com
www.OKLuxuryHomes.com
LISTED BY:
Wyatt Poindexter, Keller Williams Elite 405-417-5466 OKLuxuryHomes.com 5629 N. Classen Blvd | Oklahoma City, OK 70 LUXI E R E
# 1 O K L A H O M A LU X U RY R E A L E S TAT E T E A M
$1,485,000 | 17515 Prairie Sky Way
$1,082,250 | 21 Redbud Lane
$1,050,000 | 3300 Scarab Inlet
$999,000 | 36147 E Ew 1200 Road
www.17515prairieskyway.com
www.21redbud.com
www.3300scarab.com
www.SeminoleLuxuryRanch.com
$949,900 | 86 Lower Green Way
$939,000 | 6429 Grandmark Drive
$885,000 | 31 Park Street
$799,000 | 424 Carpenter Trail
www.86lowergreenway.com
www.OKLuxuryHomes.com
www.31parkstreet.com
www.424carpenter.com
$575,000 | 14360 N Post Road
$350,000 | 816 NW 8th Street
$320,000 | 5900 Mosteller Drive #44
$295,000 | W Shore Drive #25
www.OKLuxuryHomes.com
www.OKLuxuryHomes.com
www.OKLuxuryHomes.com
www.OKLuxuryHomes.com
$295,000 | 9300 Farmhouse Lane
$242,000 | 119 Lower Green Way
$200,000 | Muirfield Place
$199,520 | 5541 Harper Creek Trail
www.OKLuxuryHomes.com
www.OKLuxuryHomes.com
www.OKLuxuryHomes.com
www.OKLuxuryHomes.com
LISTED BY:
Wyatt Poindexter, Keller Williams Elite 405-417-5466 OKLuxuryHomes.com 5629 N. Classen Blvd | Oklahoma City, OK LUXI E R E 71
AN INCOMPARABLE BUYING AND SELLING EXPERIENCE
1 6 O 3 W. W I L S H I R E B LV D | N I C H O L S H I L L S 4 BD | 4.2 BA | 8,506 SQ FT $2,450,000 | SOLD Timeless elegance, as well as its remarkable location, situated directly across from the original GA Nichols estate, makes this home a once in a lifetime opportunity. Expansive dining and living area featuring 2 original fireplace surrounds, flanked by a 2 story esplanade that spans the back of the home to give it a resort like feel. The kitchen encompasses everything an aspiring home chef would need. Every imaginable amenity can be found on the lower level. Manicured grounds complete with pool, spa and outdoor living make this home truly magnificent.
17515 PRAIRIE SKY | EDMOND 5 BD | 6 BA | 8,445 SQ FT $1,485,000 | SOLD This West Coast showplace is a stunning example of modern efficiency and unmatched craftsmanship. The Spanish Revival style home’s exterior is molded from 700 cubic feet of concrete and inside you’ll find the original bar from O’Connell’s Bar & Grill in Norman, reclaimed wood floors, reclaimed solid wood stairs, and 185 feet of 1880s hand hewn wood beams. This home has “WOW” in its DNA, being 1 of only 12 homes in OK with a Gold LEED certification.
1603 GUILFORD LN | NICHOLS HILLS 4 BD | 3.5 BA | 4,560 SQ FT $ 2 ,1 5 0 , 0 0 0 | S O L D Stunning mid century modern contemporary overlooking a beautiful Nichols Hills park! Completely remodeled with window walls and unparalleled design! Exceptional attention to detail. Several outdoor patio areas. Very secluded, wooded and private lot in the heart of Nichols Hills!
As a longtime resident of Oklahoma City, David Oliver has an exceptional understanding of the
Oklahoma City real estate market dynamics and its diverse communities. His success is attributed to his dedication to go above and beyond for his clients, always striving to exceed their expectations. David is a savvy marketer with a keen understanding of what it takes to position a property locally, and paired with an award-winning residential brokerage, the exposure he offers is unparalleled. 72 LUXI E R E
DAV I D G.O L I V E R
W YAT T P O I N D E X T E R G R O U P
6429 GRANDMARK DR | NICHOLS HILLS 2 B D | 2 B A | 2 , 3 5 5 S Q F T | $ 9 3 9, 0 0 0 Crafted with the finest luxury materials and designed for a life lived to the fullest, with the least amount of complication, you’ll feel right at home in this single-story Grandmark flat. Delight in the high-end finishes found among the two bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and two well-appointed living areas. Exclusively, residents can host guests in one of two fully furnished suites in the Grandmark Guesthouse on property. Experience Grandmark today!
DAVID G. OLIVER
5629 N. Classen Blvd Oklahoma City, OK 405.948.7500 | 405.532.3800 david@wyattpoindexter.com LUXI E R E 73
I N D U ST RY L E A D E R S - CO M M U N I T Y A DVO C AT E S The Brad Reeser Team has led Edmond’s real estate industry since 1982, providing unparalleled service and impressive results to their clients every day. Brad, Tracy, and the rest of the team are just as active in the community as they are in the business, championing the RED Day Run and other causes assisting those in need in the metro area.
SOLD!
$1,895,000 | 6501 OAK TREE One of Edmond’s most iconic residences with stunning, expansive views of Oak Tree National.
SOLD!
$1,500,000 | 6300 OAK TREE CIR Stunning Mediterranean-style home on double lot with stunning views of Oak Tree National.
$820,000 | 5632 RABBIT RIDGE LN Don’t miss this impressive 3 bed, 3 bath stunner in the new Rabbit Ridge at Oak Tree!
YOUR OAK TREE EXPERTS In 2021, the Brad Reeser Team closed $10,355,000 worth of homes in Oak Tree alone! If you’ve been thinking about a move, think Results with Reeser.
WE HAVE BUYERS LOOKING FOR:
4,000 SQ. FT. OR MORE 3 BEDS | 3.5 BATHS 3 CAR GARAGE POOL & GOLF COURSE UP TO $1,350,000 CASH
3,500 SQ. FT. OR MORE 4 BEDS 3 BATHS 3 CAR GARAGE UP TO $850,000
LI STED BY:
Brad Reeser Real Estate Team 405-990-8262 BradReeser.com 10 E. Campbell | Edmond, OK 74 LUXI E R E
WELCOME TO FOREST CREEK 1 TO 2+ ACRE LOTS | GATED COMMUNITY 15 ACRE NATURE PRESERVE | EAST OF I-35 • EDMOND, OK
The natural beauty of Forest Creek Estates will inspire you to dream big. This environmentally friendly gated community, with its 5-acre lake, 15-acre nature preserve and acreage lots, is designed for people who wish to create a distinctive home. www.forestcreekedmond.com
Wyatt Poindexter, Keller Williams Elite 405-417-5466 OKLuxuryHomes.com 5629 N. Classen Blvd | Oklahoma City, OK
LUXI E R E 75
# 1 I N D I V I D UA L LU X U RY AG E N T AT K E L L E R W I L L I A M S E L I T E
3008 BLACKSTONE DRIVE • UNDER CONTRACT $2,380,000 | 5 BD | 4.1 BA | 7,469 SQ FT www.3008blackstone.com
3464 BRUSH CREEK RD $1,175,000 | 4 BD | 4.2 BA | 3 CAR GARAGE | 6,002 SQ FT www.3464brushcreek.info
1904 SUMMERHAVEN WAY • SOLD $1,750,000 | 5 BD | 6.2 BA | 7,216 SQ FT www.1904summerhaven.info
3041 ROLLING STONE RD • SOLD $1,250,000 | 5 BD | 4.1 BA | 6,445 SQ FT www.3041rollingstone.com
S I M O N S H I N G L E TO N 4 0 5 .6 3 3. 3 6 1 1 4 0 5 H O U S E A N D H O M E .C O M
6219 RIVIERA DRIVE • SOLD $895,000 | 5 BD | 6.2 BA | 7,793 SQ FT www.6219riviera.info 76 LUXI E R E
Jennifer Kragh © 2022 Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC.
405.274.6767 Jennifer.Kragh@SothebysRealty.com jenniferkragh.sagesir.com instagram: @jenniferkraghgroup LUXI E R E 77
LD SO
Majesty & Splendor 700 NW 15TH ST OKLAHOMA CITY 5 BED, 4.3 BATH, 6966 SQ. FT. OFFERED AT $1,800,000 700NW15THOKC.COM
Handsome in Heritage Hills 928 NW 14TH ST OKLAHOMA CITY 3 BED, 1.1 BATH, 1872 SQ. FT. OFFERED AT $475,000 928NW14THOKC.COM
Jennifer Kragh 405.274.6767 | Jennifer.Kragh@SothebysRealty.com jenniferkragh.sagesir.com | instagram: @jenniferkraghgroup 78 LUXI E R E
Grace & Perfection 1703 N HUDSON AVE | OKLAHOMA CITY 5 BED, 4.2 BATH, 4985 SQ. FT. OFFERED AT $1,475,000 1703NHUDSONOKC.COM
© 2022 Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. LUXI E R E 79
Experience Luxury Real Estate Sleek, sexy and contemporary with a hint of a coastal vibe. Every detail in this home has been carefully curated with your lifestyle in mind. Everywhere you turn are gorgeous natural finishes: soapstone counters and fireplace surround, rich exposed wood beams overhead, white oak floors and custom cabinetry, perfectly imperfect pecky cypress
Jenna Harper Broker Associate 405.748.0405 jenna@sagesir.com jennaharper.sagesir.com
paneling in the living room, clean penny tile, regal marble. Custom steel doors and windows, and designer fixtures throughout, lend an urbane sense of cool glamour; paneled walls add comfort and warmth. 137 NORTHEAST 14TH STREET | $1,299,000 4 BEDS | 3.1 BATHS | 3,799 SQFT 137NE14THST.COM
80 LUXI E R E
© 2022 Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC.
Welcome home to your Oasis on the Lake. This expansive Mediterranean Estate stuns and surpasses expectation with every custom detail. Daily living on the main floor and full entertainment in the finished basement will make you enjoy staying in.
15532 LAGUNA DRIVE | $2,690,000 ESPERANZA IN EDMOND 4 BEDS | 5.2 BATHS | GAME ROOM | THEATRE WINE ROOM | 8,659 SQFT 15532LAGUNADR.COM
© 2022 Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated. Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC.
Kate Brennan Global Real Estate Advisor, Broker Associate 405.641.3004 kate@sagesir.com katebrennan.sagesir.com LUXI E R E 81
82 LUXI E R E
LUXI E R E 83
MIDTOWN RESIDENCES, REIMAGINED. STARTING FROM $660,500 - $1,160,000
EXCLUSIVELY MARKETED BY
CHRIS GEORGE HOMES CHURCHILL BROWN | CHINOWTH & COHEN
CHRIS GEORGE 405 627 0801 JUSTIN BRANNON 405 503 3968 EDEN MOORE 817 371 8132
VILLATERESAOKC.COM
84 LUXI E R E
LUXI E R E 85
Oklahoma City’s Commercial Landscaping Experts Native plants, modern, sustainable, low maintenance, eco-friendly, landscape and hardscape www.ecolandscapesok.com | 405.259.1665
Never worry about your Sprinkler System again. Using cutting edge technology and products, Conserva Irrigation is the leader in ensuring that your sprinkler system delivers precisely the right amount of water at the right times, based on what your property needs.
www.conservairrigation.com | 405.259.1648
86 LUXI E R E
BRIAN HARVEY Oklahoma’s High Net Worth Insurance Expert WWW.BRIAN HARVEYOKC .COM
“2021 HUB International SHARP Award Winner” (Top 10% of HUB Brokers Internationally)
SPECIALIZING IN • Asset Protection
• Equine Insurance
• Primary & Secondary
• Aviation Insurance
Residences • Rental Properties • Personal Autos • Antique/Exotic Autos
• Watercraft/Yachts • Collections (Jewelry, Watches, Fine Art, Wine, Furs, Music & Sports Memorabilia)
BR I A N H A R VEY PRIVAT E C L I E N T A DVI S O R
13100 N. Western, Ste. 115, Oklahoma City, OK 73114 Office: 405.863.9842 | Mobile: 405.397.3823 brian.harvey@hubinternational.com | www.brianharveyokc.com LUXI E R E 87
IMAGINE YOUR ESTATE IN
THE CROWN JEWEL OF NICHOLS HILLS.
LOT 2 LOT 3
LOT 4
6600 NW GRAND BOULEVARD | NICHOLS HILLS | $1,890,000 | .69 ACRES 6606 NW GRAND BOULEVARD | NICHOLS HILLS | $1,890,000 | .74 ACRES 6612 NW GRAND BOULEVARD | NICHOLS HILLS | $1,890,000 | .83 ACRES
DEBBIE BOLDING Broker Associate | Metro Mark Realtors 6501 Avondale Drive
Once believed to be unobtainable, you now have an opportunity to select from one of three lots for your new estate home on a property long considered the Crown
Nichols Hills, OK 73116
Jewel of Nichols Hills. Imagine your home perched on a
(405) 642-2866
hill overlooking NW Grand Boulevard and a park littered with redbud trees and its own private street.
88 LUXI E R E
400 DEEP FORK CIR CL E | A R CA D IA, O K 73007 $5,950,000 | 7 B ED | 8.5 B AT H | 12,020 SQ F T
EXPERI ENCE OKL AHOMA’S PRE MI ER LUXU RY LI S TI N G
in the scenic landscapes of Sugar Hill. This contemporary estate features a breathtaking main living area with a cathedral ceiling and view that nods to traditional mountain architecture. Then boasts a stunning chef kitchen with oversized marble island, commercial appliances and upscale dining areas. Each room offers an array of touches for a unique experience. The main suite holds a see-through fireplace, garden room, celebrity style closets, heated bathroom marble floors and steam shower. An ingeniously smart Control 4 system provides whole-home automation. Entertaining? THX Theater Room. Entertainment suite and bar. Elevator to cavernous basement and wine cellar. Resort infinity pool. Any number of patios with seamless indoor-outdoor transitions and fire features. Don’t forget the guest home or cabana with home gym. Short distance from paved Lake Arcadia trails. With endless detail and style, this is the ultimate luxury living experience.
TY BURNETT
Broker Associate, REALTOR® 405.641.4624 ty@525realtygroup.com 400DeepForkCircle.com LUXI E R E 89
Visit Selah
Tower Homes {prlvauily tucked 1hrougho1.11 Phuo IA gr.,.,napaco)
Sweetwater Village Homes
Each village offers its own unique character and set of experiences within, including various architectural styles and lot sizes to flow effortlessly with the natural landscape backdrop.
Selah is a new urbanism development located just 10 minutes south of historic downtown Norman. Off ering 540-acres of front porch living, fresh air, and fresh food, Selah focuses on reconnecting family and neighbors. This walkable community is set among acres of over 50% preserved green space (compared to only 15% national average) with miles of nature trails that will connect homes and restaurants with arts and businesses. The Selah vision is unlike any of it's kind in Oklahoma, providing a large range of authentic experiences, both in terms of lifestyle choice but also everyday interaction. For this very reason, Selah has been welcomed as 1 of only 13 Southern Living Inspired Communities™ in the United States, making it the first and only one in Oklahoma. The SelahRealty Realtyteam team The Selah is the exclusive, theisexclusive, in-house, go-to-source for all in-house, go-to-source things for for all Selah. thingsCall Selah. a personalized tour Call for a personalized tourappointment. a ointment.
90 LUXI E R E
Mollie Gatto Director of Sales
405.426.0895 mollie@swhok.com
KAREN BLEVINS LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
EDMOND BOARD OF REALTORS® $82.3 million in sales volume in 2021 #1 Company Top Sales for 13 years Ranked #1 REALTOR® by Journal Record for Top Residential Sales Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist, CLHMS 2016 Certified Seller Representative Specialist, SRS 2020 Certified Residential Specialist, CRS 2002 Graduate of REALTOR® Institute, GRI 2003
LUXI E R E 91
NW 72nd & N Classen Blvd, East of Nichols Hills WilshirePoint.com
MODERN URBAN LIVING Single Family Custom Homes from 3,000 SF & Up Garden Offices from 3,000 SF & Up Executive Garage Condos Walking Trails, Ponds, Fountains, Parks FALL 2022 “74” Full Service Restaurant Scheduled to Open PLANNED Upscale Condos and/or Apartments
PRE-CONSTRUCTION NOW! Call David Bohanon for Details (405) 850.0987
DAV ID B OH ANON JD, DE V E LOP E R - B R O K E R | 4 0 5 . 8 5 0.0 9 87 DB OH ANO N @ B LAC KSTO N E CO M .CO M
92 LUXI E R E
LUXURY LIVING NEEDS A L U X U RY AG E N T.
Charli Bullard Engel & Völkers Oklahoma City 1138 N Robinson Ave Oklahoma City, OK 73103 405-414-6215 · charli.bullard@evrealestate.com
ENGEL&VÖLKERS photo by Kennon Bryce
®
CHARLI BULLARD ©2022 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act.
SERVICE & CLASS. Sara Knudsen • Advisor/Broker Associate 405-408-8480 · sara.knudsen@evrealestate.com Follow on IG @sara.knudsen.ok Certifications and Designations: Certified Probate Real Estate Specialist Accredited Buyer’s Representative® Seller Representative Specialist At Home with Diversity® e-Pro® - Technology in Real Estate Military Relocation Professional Pricing Strategy Advisor Seniors Real Estate Specialist® Resort and Second-Home Property Specialist Supreme Auctions Certified Auction Agent Residential Real Estate Council Luxury Homes Certification Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist™ RRC Inside Sales Agent Graduate, REALTOR® Institute
ENGEL&VÖLKERS
®
SARA KNUDSEN
©2022 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act.
LUXI E R E 93
“Creating timeless custom home plans for over 35 years.”
415 West 15th Street, Ste. 1 Edmond, OK 73013 405.340.1980 www.brentgibson.com
Find us on Instagram @brentgibsondesign @nicolerickeydesigns
FOR THE DISCRIMINATING BUYER C AREFREE, LUXURY LIVING IN THE HEART OF OKC!
360 AT FOUNDERS PLAZA
AVAILABLE UNITS
• • • • •
Unit #54 | $396,000 2 bed | 2.5 bath | 1,617 sq ft
Unit #143 | $230,400 1 bed | 1.5 bath | 1,152 sq ft
Unit #73 | Pending 1 bed | 1.5 bath | 1,152 sq ft
Unit #153 | $299,000 1 bed | 1.5 bath | 1,304 sq ft
Stunning Architecture Panoramic views 24 hour concierge service High level of security Amenities include: indoor saltwater pool & spa, outdoor saltwater pool & kitchen, full fitness center w/state of the art equipment, recreation room.
Unit #81 | $269,600 1 bed | 1.5 bath | 1,348 sq ft
Photo by Dark Room Media, Staging by Live Boho Staging
94 LUXI E R E
Janet Helms • Advisor 100 S. Broadway Ste 100 Edmond, OK 73034 405-921-0572 janet.helms@evrealestate.com
ENGEL&VÖLKERS
®
JANET HELMS
Providing “Extra”ordinary Service ©2020 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act.
BRINGING LUXURY HOME
6 1 6 N W 6 T H S T, O K L A H O M A C I T Y
6 1 4 N W 6 T H S T, O K L A H O M A C I T Y
4BD | 3.1BA | 2,489 SQ FT | $900,000
4BD | 2.5BA | 3,470 SQ FT | $1,195,000
Architecturally renowned, contemporary concept featuring reclaimed wood floors,
Bespoke touches abound in this architectural gem, including decorative metal
artisanal stained concrete, piano finished kitchen cabinets and custom Murphy bed.
doors, museum worthy walls, European-style windows, accent lighting and seamless
This unique property also includes a low-maintenance turf lawn and separate structure
custom oak cabinetry. Washed with natural light, a gallery hall overlooks the secluded
offering the potential for home office, guest quarters or short-term rental. Energy
courtyard and beckons you to the first floor primary suite, complete with spa-like bath
efficient at its core, this home features 2x6 exterior walls with spray foam insulation
amenities, in-closet laundry and downtown views. The second floor offers even more
and a commercial grade roof. Let the downtown skyline dazzle you from your own
space and potential to customize. Views of nearby attractions can be found in every
private balcony just steps away from the impressive en-suite.
room of the home. This stunning modern masterpiece awaits you.
There is only one real estate advisor to contact when you decide to make your move. Britta Thrift leverages her knowledge and training to negotiate winning deals for all of her clients, closely reflecting their personal goals and passions. With numerous designations to her name, Britta Thrift combines her decade of experience with an approachable but straightforward communication style to create an exclusive and rewarding experience for her clients. H O W W I L L Y O U D E F I N E Y O U R L U X U RY ?
Britta McAfee Thrift, JD • Advisor 405-821-2313 • Follow me @britta.at.ev 1138 N Robinson Ave • Oklahoma City, OK 73103 britta.thrift@evrealestate.com • brittathrift.evrealestate.com
ENGEL&VÖLKERS
®
BRITTA ELITE TEAM
©2022 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act.
LUXI E R E 95
LUXURY & HISTORIC SPECIALIST
SOLD 2002 SUMMERHAVEN WAY • $2,050,000 5 BED • 7 BATH • 7,014 SQ FT
NEW TO MARKET 314 NE 3RD • $1,100,000 4 BED • 4 BATH • 3,141 SQ FT
UNDER CONTRACT 1715 HIDDEN LAKE DR • $979,000 6 BED • 6 BATH • 5,603 SQ FT
UNDER CONTRACT 908 NW 38TH • $799,000 3 BED • 3 BATH • 2,754 SQ FT
NEW TO MARKET 5423 BROOKHAVEN PLACE • $699,999 5 BED • 4 BATH • 2,572 SQ FT
SOLD 1022 NW 17TH ST • $620,000 5 BED • 5 BATH • 2,600 SQ FT
SOLD 4900 OLD LANTERN WAY • $525,000 4 BED • 4 BATH • 3,529 SQ FT
NEW TO MARKET 1520 NW 35TH ST • $369,000 3 BED • 2 BATH • 2,075 SQ FT
SOLD 2533 CUMMINGS DRIVE • $365,000 4 BEDS • 3 BATH • 2,055 SQ FT
Joy Baresel • President/Owner Engel & Völkers Oklahoma City & Edmond Private Office Real Estate Advisor +1 405-826-7465 joy.baresel@evrealestate.com www.joybaresel.evrealestate.com Follow on instagram: @joybaresel
ENGEL&VÖLKERS
®
JOY BARESEL ©2022 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act.
96 LUXI E R E
L U X U RY & H I S T O R I C S P E C I A L I S T
3201 E HEFNER RD | 6BD | 8BA | 10,876 SQ FT | $3,870,000 This coastal modern estate with organic luxury finishes is surrounded by 10 acres of forest views. From the moment you walk in you see nature surrounding you through gigantic walls of glass. The enormous wrap around outdoor living space with kitchen and fireplace provides several seating spaces overlooking the beautiful pool and 16 person hot tub. Inside you will notice the unique architectural design of the floating spiral staircase which acts as a sculptural centerpiece. The Savaria glass elevator, 168 bottle glass wine display, and sunken living room are the accents to the gorgeous gourmet kitchen. The primary bedroom has the largest closet, with a spa bathroom, dry sauna, soaking tub, and cold plunge rivaling many European spas. A full gym, theater room, and attached full 2 bed apartment with large kitchen complete this resort estate.
Contact Joy Baresel for your private showing today! +1 405-826-7465 • joy.baresel@evrealestate.com ©2022 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act.
LUXI E R E 97
LUXI E R E 98