Cherry Creek Magazine | Winter 2022-2023

EXPERIENCE ITALY

Cuvée-Style

SEPTEMBER 26 - OCTOBER 5, 2023

THE RYDER CUP IN ROME | TUSCANY | LAKE COMO

Join us at the prestigious, redesigned Marco Simone Golf & Country Club in Rome, Italy for the 2023 Ryder Cup, and ten days of once-in-a-lifetime, curated experiences and ultra-luxury accommodations in Rome, Tuscany, and Lake Como.

“Cuvée always makes it special one way or the other – special access to different parts of the golf tournament itself. It’s just a once in a lifetime experience.”

Mark Spencer

CUVÉE & RYDER CUP 2018 GUEST

JEFF HENDLEY | 303.877.6767 | JEFF@JEFFHENDLEY.COM

36. MAN ABOUT TOWN

GAVIN BERRY OF DEL FRISCO’S GRILLE

38. GAL ABOUT TOWN

MEET MASON MILLS

40. HE SAID, SHE SAID

DATE NIGHT AT POSTINO

42. BAR CART

DRINKING WITH BLANCO’S RYAN MOORE

44. VIEW MASTER

WHAT WE’RE WATCHING + READING

46. ARTIST IN RESIDENCE

DISCOVER PATRICK KANE MCGREGOR

48. HOMECOMING

SERENITY IN CHERRY CREEK NORTH

82. REMEMBER WHEN?

OUR PARTING THOUGHTS

CHERRY CREEK MAGAZINE

2443 South University Blvd. Number 171 Denver, Colorado 80210 303.917.6705

CHERRYCREEKMAG.COM

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PUBLISHER + EDITOR IN CHIEF

Betsy Marr

PRESIDENT + EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Kevin Marr

ART DIRECTOR

Jill Hodges

PHOTOGRAPHER

JC Buck

Copyright 2022-2023 by Marr & Company, LLC. All rights reserved. Cherry Creek Magazine is published three times annually. Reproduction without permission of the Publisher is prohibited. Marr & Company, LLC and its affiliates, employees, contributors, writers, editor (Publisher) accepts no responsibility for inaccuracies, errors or omissions with information and/or advertisements contained herein. The Publisher has neither investigated nor endorsed companies and/or products that advertise in the publication or that are mentioned editorially. The Publisher assumes no responsibly for the claims made by the Advertisers or the merits of their respective products or services advertised or promoted in Cherry Creek Magazine. Publisher neither expressly nor implicitly endorses such Advertiser product, services or claims. Publisher expressly assumes no liability for any damages whatsoever that may be suffered by any purchaser or user for any products or services advertised or mentioned editorially herein. Opinions expressed in the magazine and/or its advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Publisher.

a note from our editor

Baby, it’s cold outside

It’s the time of year when snuggling near a cozy fire sounds like the best-laid plans and a warm libation on a snowy evening is just the ticket. Wintertime in Colorado is brimming with opportunities for escapades and adventures. Adventures that are all the more meaningful when shared with our loved ones.

In the spirit of healthy beginnings, we’re exploring the meteoric rise of Cherry Creek-based CLMBR (page 55) and its fearless leader, Avrum Elmakis. His story of entrepreneurship, perseverance, and celebrity investors is one for the books. Next, we find out what it takes to feed hockey’s preeminent names in The Stanley Cup Chef (page 61). Personal chef to Colorado Avalanche players Nathan MacKinnon, Gabriel Landeskog, and Erik Johnson, Curtis Bell takes us inside the kitchens of the reigning world champions.

Finally, we celebrate the city’s tastemakers and trendsetters in Denver’s Best Dressed (page 67). These seven individuals have cultivated an impressive sense of personal style, yet more impressively, are making incredible strides to better the community.

Add in a stunning Cherry Creek North home designed by Jane Bradford (page 48), a night of great food and great wine (page 40), the top fine jewelers in Cherry Creek (page 30) and the inside scoop behind the neighborhood’s larger than life public art (page 46) and you have the makings of a winter issue with a bit of something for everyone.

From our family to yours, we wish you a very happy new year. Cheers to a 2023 that’s filled with passion and prosperity!

Yours truly,

PHOTO BY REESE & CO PORTRAITS

Shop Local and discover our large assortment of in-stock furniture for immediate delivery. We’ve been proudly serving the Colorado Front Range for over 20 years.

Front Range Village : Fort Collins Cherry Creek North : Denver

Pearl Street : Boulder hwhome.com

A fine art and portrait photographer working exclusively in black and white, John Christopher Buck is the talent behind our Denver’s Best Dressed feature. A Minnesota native, JC was largely raised in Brussels, Belgium, a formative experience that exposed the artist to myriad cultures and countries.

After college, Buck pursued a career in the healthcare industry – one that would ultimately prompt a move to Denver. “This move would end up changing my life,” he says. “The entrepreneurial spirit of the West inspired me. I got an MBA from the University of Colorado with an Entrepreneurship emphasis. Shortly after, I launched my photography studio.”

Buck was introduced to his first 35mm SLR film camera in a high school darkroom class in the early 1990s. “One of my first exposures was a Porsche 911, my all-time favorite car. It hangs in my Dad’s office to this day,” he recalls.

Today, JC Buck helms his Denver-based gallery and portrait studio. His work has been widely published both in print and online.

JC BUCK Photographer

What’s trending online

Cherry Creek just got a bit chicer with the recent opening of the neighborhood’s first Gucci storefront. We’ve been glued to the iconic brand’s social media pages, which beautifully showcase the fashion house’s 2022 holiday campaign. Set within a classic locomotive, the photos are a nod to the past with a decidedly contemporary spin on couture. We’ll be spending plenty of time perusing the new retail location in Cherry Creek Shopping Center.

IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD

St. Louis-based The Normal Brand opened its fifth freestanding store this fall right in the heart of Cherry Creek North. Known for stylish, casual men’s and women’s clothing, the family-owned and operated company designs rugged, everyday apparel that is built to last. Visit them at their Fillmore Plaza location.

@thenormalbrand

Our website is chalk-full of up-to -the-minute, hyperlocal content. Stay in touch with Cherry Creek’s latest and greatest, browse our archives, and find a little inspiration for your next neighborhood adventure.

CHERRYCREEKMAG.COM

We are eternally inspired by the late Audrey Hepburn, and this season her après ski looks from the film Charade are giving us all the vibes we need. It’s a look that is just as on trend today as it was 60 years ago – something that only Ms. Hepburn’s enduring style could evoke.

pinterest.com/cherrycreekmag

Shown here, The 2022 Neiman Marcus Holiday Campaign @neimanmarcusdenver

CHERRY PICKED

1. 1Jimmy Choo Blake Pointed Toe Wedge Boot, $1,695 Nordstrom

2. Roberto Coin Princess 18K Yellow Gold & Diamond Tassel Necklace, $9,310 Hyde Park Jewelers

3. Loeffler Randall Rayne Pleated Clutch, $250 Nordstrom

4. Burberry Corrine Gown with Cutouts Neiman Marcus, $8,500

5. Royal Crown Derby Gold Aves Five Piece Place Setting, $932 White Peacock

6. Tiffany & Co. Schlumberger® Flame Ear Clips, $22,000 tiffany.com

7. Christiane Lemieux The Finer Things, $60 Pottery Barn

8. Bloom Jewelry Signature Hammered Cuff, $64 Garbarini or jewelrybybloom.com

9. L’Agence Billie Belted Leather Jacket, $1,625 Neiman Marcus

10. Valentino Garavani Roman Stud Medium Crystal Shoulder Bag, $6,500 Neiman Marcus

18KRG & HyCeram Double Diamond Eternity Band, $6,440 Oster Jewelers

Men’s “Mario” Python Loafers, $1,145

Neiman Marcus

3. Cartier

Men’s Double-Bridge Metal Aviator Sunglasses, $2,145 Neiman Marcus

Men’s 4G-Logo Stud Cufflinks, $290 Neiman Marcus

5. Tiffany & Co. Gold Vide Poche, $350 Tiffany & Co.

6. Vinglace Wine Chiller, $90 Nordstrom

7. Canada Goose Crofton Packable Quilted Down Jacket, $995 Nordstrom

8. Nordstrom Neat Silk Tie, $79.50 Nordstrom

9. Creed Millesime Imperial Cologne, $470 Neiman Marcus

10. Rolex

DAY-DATE 40 Oyster 40 mm, Yellow Gold and Diamonds, Price Upon Request Hyde Park Jewelers

1. Furrer Jacot

2. Manolo Blahnik

4. Givenchy

CUTTING EDGE GIFTS

G-Fusion Steak Knives

“Glides through steaks as if they’re butter.” - Wall Street Journal

The Teton-Edge Santoku

“The perfect balance of power and grace.”

- Bon Appetit

Petty Knife

“Razor sharp and gorgeous.”

- Forbes

AMERICAN MADE KNIFE ART

Cooking is a ne art and the knife is the artist’s brush. For 25 years, New West KnifeWorks has made world-class tools for the culinary artist. Designed and crafted in the Tetons.

Arete Block

“As beautiful as it is useful.”

- New York Times

Holidays in CHERRY CREEK

The holidays are here in Cherry Creek North and that means the neighborhood’s sterling lineup for this season’s Winter Wanderland…

Cherry Creek Holiday Market (daily, Thursday, Nov. 17, through Saturday, Dec. 24): With more than 50 makers, designers and creators to shop from during the holiday season, this event also features live music from local acts Thursday through Sunday and a full bar of festive and spirited drinks. Special deals, programming and pop-ups will make every visit unique! A full list of vendors, music schedule and market hours are at CherryCreekHolidayMarket.com.

Winter Wanderland Light Walk (daily, Thursday, Nov. 17 through Saturday, Dec. 24): Cherry Creek North’s stunning canopy of more than 600 trees is adorned with nearly a million twinkling lights, creating a bright and festive atmosphere. Illuminated 24-hours-a-day with LED energy-efficient bulbs, visitors are encouraged to wander the neighborhood’s 16 blocks to find eight twinkling displays choreographed to holiday music. At each display, visitors can register to win a $1,000 Cherry Creek North gift card.

Cherry Creek Carriage Rides (every Wednesday, Nov. 23 through Dec. 21, from 5-8 p.m.): Enjoy a complimentary horsedrawn carriage ride through Winter Wanderland. No better way to experience the magic of the season — and take a much-needed break from holiday shopping – guests are first come, first served at the Holiday Market on the corner of 2nd Ave. & Fillmore St.

LAPS: A Journey Through Time (daily, Thursday, Nov. 17, through Saturday, Dec. 24): In a world that seems to move at an increasingly rapid pace, this interactive art installation offers a moment to slow down and really enjoy the season. LAPS features six giant musical hourglasses — enticing visitors to bend time and then sit back and watch as bursting light and dancing color fill the air.

Saturday Night Lights (Saturdays, Dec. 3, 10 and 17, from 5-7 p.m.): Festive entertainment lines the streets of Cherry Creek North on Saturday nights in December. The family-friendly holiday celebration features stilt walkers, acrobats, jugglers and additional performers.

Chanukah Celebration (Sunday, Dec. 18, at 5 p.m.): The Chabad of Cherry Creek will host a community menorah lighting celebration at Gart Plaza on 3rd Ave. and Milwaukee St. on the first night of Chanukah. Visitors can also enjoy face painting, fire juggling, festive treats and crafts.

COZY UP

Parachute Home has landed in Cherry Creek North. Launched in 2014 as an online-only, direct-to-consumer brand focused on creating impeccable bedding, this new location is the latest in the company’s brick-and-mortar collection. “Home is everything to me. I created Parachute to bring more comfort to your world through premium, accessible essentials,” says Founder and CEO, Ariel Kaye. The offerings run the gamut from bedding, inserts, and robes and loungewear to bedroom, living room and baby furniture as well as bath and décor and living elements.

Miller Time

One of the furniture industry’s behemoths recently acquired a Cherry Creek North address when the world- renowned Herman Miller came to town and settled in on Fillmore Plaza. In business for over 108 years, the company has become synonymous with “modern” furniture, producing classics of industrial design and collaborating with a who’s who of outstanding designers from around the globe. In addition, Herman Miller has become a recognized innovator in contemporary interior furnishings, solutions for healthcare environments and related technologies and services.

hermanmiller.com/@hermanmiller

The juggernaut fashion duo comprised of two sisters-in-law known nationwide as Veronica Beard is bringing their iconic brand to Cherry Creek North. Ten years after launching their signature Dickey Jacket, a twist on the classic blazer and one of their best-selling pieces, the brand continues to be coveted and has been worn by celebs like Michelle Obama, Gwyneth Paltrow and Meghan Markle.

Veronica Beard sells its own brand of contemporary women’s apparel, including dresses, jackets, tops and pants ranging from $45 to $1,500. The company has 19 stores around the U.S. and in London, with 10 more slated to open in the next 12 months, including the Cherry Creek locale in December at 250 Columbine Street.

veronicabeard.com/@veronicabeard

A Cut Above

Cherry Creek North is sharpening its game with the pending arrival of New West KnifeWorks. NWKW has been on the cutting edge of kitchen cutlery for over 15 years, while specializing in 100 percent American-made chef knives made of the highest-grade U.S. steel. New West has put in the blood and sweat to find the right balance between sharpness, toughness, edge holding, and ease of sharpening. From the New York Times and Bloomberg to Bon Appetit and Fine Cooking, top tastemakers appreciate kitchen cutlery that, as the New York Times claims, is “as beautiful as it is useful.”

newwestknifeworks.com/@nwknifeworks

FASHION FORWARD

thelist

FINE JEWELRY…

All that glitters IS gold in Cherry Creek North this season. Set your sparking eyes on some of the best bijous in the 80206 and cross your fingers and toes that something shiney comes your way.

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Oster

To us, the Osters epitomize Cherry Creek style. Husband-wife duo Jeremy and Melissa are known for outfitting Denverites in baubles and bling with unmatched panache. With a mix of contemporary and fine jewelry and watches for both men and women, the Osters have a little something for everyone.

251 Steele Street osterjewelers.com

Hyde Park

In Denver, the name Hyde Park is synonymous with luxurious fine jewelry. A Cherry Creek icon since 1976, today the brand boasts eight nationwide locations including a flagship in Cherry Creek Shopping Center along with four separate brand-specific storefronts nearby. Engage for bridal baubles, plus freestanding Rolex, Breitling, and Omega boutiques for the watch enthusiast.

3000 East 1st Avenue hydeparkjewelers.com

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Element 79

2 3 4

Carol Ferguson’s Element 79 is as chic as it is unique, with looks ranging from Ferguson’s own sterling silver and gold “bee” line and beaded necklaces by Lena Skadegard all the way to custom designed diamond engagement pieces. Every time we enter her 3rd Ave storefront, we leave with a new obsession. Leather cuffs, sterling silver rings, moonstone studs and a medallion pendant from the aforementioned CFJ Bee line all have starring roles in our jewelry lineup.

2703 East 3rd Avenue element79jewelry.com

Foster & Son

With a history that stems back 62 years, Foster & Son is one of the oldest and most beloved businesses in all of Cherry Creek. What began with Patricia Foster at the original Cherry Creek Mall in 1959 has since lived on to see two new generations of Fosters at the helm. Patty’s son, Brien and his wife, Cindi recently welcomed their son, Tucker, into the mix and today the Fosters are known for their exceptional service and exquisite designs. From traditional diamond engagement rings to unique fine jewelry and watches, Foster & Son delivers time and again.

2908 East 3rd Avenue cherrycreekjewelry.com

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Raz and Itzhak Gnat began their jewelry business in Cherry Creek North in 1983, and their longevity has established the company as one of the area’s top go-to custom jewelers. Whether they’re creating a piece made in homage to a family member or a gift in celebration of a life milestone, Gnat Jewelry Atelier is one of Colorado’s most renowned custom jewelers for their ability to convey meaningful sentiments through thoughtful design.

250 Columbine Street gnat.jewelers.business.site

6

Tiffany & Co

There’s nothing that quite compares to the allure of the little blue box, and Cherry Creek’s Tiffany & Co locale – the region’s only – stands as a hallmark of luxury and style that’s indeed second to none.

The iconic jeweler, with a 180-year legacy, is known for some of the world’s rarest and certainly finest gems, as well as exclusive collections from designers like Paloma Picasso, Elsa Peretti, and Jean Schlumberger. Annually, the brand releases its Blue Book, a tradition dating back to 1845 showcasing one-of-akind, couture pieces that stand as some of the most coveted jewels on earth.

3000 East 1st Avenue tiffany.com

John Atencio

A Colorado jeweler, John Atencio has been creating original contemporary designs under his eponymous label for nearly four decades. What began as a small Fort Collins-based, back-of-avan jewelry endeavor, John Atencio has since evolved into an internationally recognized fashion brand with five storefront locations peppered throughout the state. Engagement, fine jewelry, watches and a popular men’s line all appoint Atencio’s coveted collection.

V i s i t H A V E N fo r u n i q u e p e r s on a l s t yl i n g , h o m e g o o d s , a nd a l l t h i n gs t i m e l e ss a n d t a s t ef u l l y r e be l l i o u s 257 Fillmore S t ree t shophavencolle c tive.co m

LAGUNA BEACH

BY BETSY MARR

A scenic drive down the Pacific Coast Highway is always a welcomed escape, yet when it winds through the sleepy streets of Laguna Beach and into the cobblestone driveway of the picture-perfect Montage Resort, it’s an experience to behold.

THE PROPERTY

Equal parts relaxed and refined, Montage Laguna Beach is a property immersed in its surroundings. Perched on a bluff high above the Pacific Ocean, the 30-acre site once played host to a mobile home park. All of that changed in 2003 with the opening of the area’s most lauded respite. Since then, the craftsman-style hotel has gained a loyal following of well heeled travelers, while garnering hundreds of awards and nods from nearly every top publication in the country.

Now a renowned artists’ colony, Laguna Beach’s beginnings date back to the early 1900s – an era when the California Arts and Crafts movement was in its heyday. With distinctive period elements such as stone architecture, crown moldings, rich dark wood, copper gutters and a shingle-style roof, the resort’s unique craftsman-style design reflects this bygone era.

The first and flagship property of the entire Montage Hotels & Resorts collection, the 258-room oceanside resort completed a fullrevamp in 2019, with an increased focus on sustainability. In 2023, Montage Laguna Beach will celebrate its 25th anniversary. With 250 luxe guest rooms, several notable dining options, a perfectly appointed spa and a front row seat to Laguna’s Aliso Beach, the resort is in a class of its own.

THE ACCOMMODATIONS

There are no bad rooms, or bad views, since all of them boast balconies that face the Pacific. Much like the homes that grace the hillside above, Montage is elegant, but not overdone. It’s luxurious without being ostentatious. Contemporary but comfortable. Of course, any of the property’s 60 suites will undoubtedly do the trick. Egyptian cotton towels, dreamy marble bathrooms, fine art local to the area, feather top beds and picture perfect balconies with panoramic views are the norm.

THE DINING

The Loft is one of Laguna Beach’s most sought-after restaurants, boasting an award-winning team of chefs and sommeliers alongside an inventive menu. Offering breakfast, lunch and dinner, along with weekend brunch, the menu reflects the seasons and utilizes local purveyors for the most optimal culinary experience paired with an extensive New and Old-World wine list.

Poolside, Mosaic Bar and Grille will curb your cravings with an al fresco meal that’s both tasty and toned down. Shrimp ceviche, lobster salad and tuna poke are amongst our favorites, and beach service is available upon request.

“BRIMMING WITH ART GALLERIES, LOCALLY OWNED EATERIES AND QUIRKY BOUTIQUES, A STROLL THROUGH THE STREETS OF LAGUNA BEACH IS ALWAYS ECLECTIC AND ENTERTAINING.“

THE SPA

The Spa at Montage – all 20,000 square feet of it – is among the best appointed in the nation. The usual suspects abound. A sauna, Eucalyptus steam room, fireplace lounges and whirlpools make for the ultimate retreat, while the adult-only lap pool with full views is truly resplendent.

In addition, the spa’s oceanfront facilities (with floor-to-ceiling windows that take maximum advantage of the nearby vistas) include a full-service beauty salon, an adultonly lap pool, fitness room with state-of-the-art weights and machines, yoga studio, and spa boutique.

Opt for one of the spa’s signature Elements of Wellness rituals – all of which are designed exclusively for the Laguna Beach locale. In particular, the 120-minute California Wildflower Ritual fuses the modalities of full body vibrational work, traditional massage, body wrap, and foot scrub into one sublime experience.

THE ACTIVITIES

Once a little known surf haven that was home to stars like Judy Garland and Ozzie and Harriet who were looking to get away from it all, Laguna Beach has since gained worldwide fame. Yet its roots are still those of the causal California lifestyle. Brimming with art galleries, locally owned eateries and quirky boutiques, a stroll through the streets is always eclectic and entertaining.

The opportunities to take in the breathtaking physical surroundings abound. They include four pristine white sand beaches, 30 acres of lush landscaping, an impeccably manicured park overlooking the Pacific Ocean and marine tide pools. Nearby are miles and miles of hiking and biking trails in the Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park and Crystal Cove State Park.

The resort’s recreation outfitter, Adventure IO, provides unique, locally-inspired day trips and activities developed and hosted by professional athletes and local experts. Guests can enjoy adventures like Electric Hydrofoil with professional instructor Chuck Glynn, Family Hiking and Photography adventure with Lululemon ambassador and Soul Cycle fitness instructor Remi Sullivan, along with a stunning 100’ luxury yacht trip to Catalina Island.

On property, the resort’s concierge can arrange beach-oriented activities like surfing, kayak tours, and stand-up paddle boarding. Guests can also take part in a weekly Coastal Eco-Tour Walk with the Laguna Ocean Foundation. In addition, Montage guests have access to Laguna Niguel Racquet Club with 22 championship courts. The resort is in close proximity to three area golf courses: Monarch Beach Golf, Talega Golf Club and Ben Brown’s Golf Course at the Ranch at Laguna Beach.

What’s your impression of the people, the neighborhood, and working in Cherry Creek North?

Cherry Creek North has a magic about it! Operating an upscale restaurant in the district requires understanding what the local clientele is looking for. It must be high quality, great service, and all delivered by friendly, polished, charismatic professionals.

Cherry Creek brings great people who visit the area and exceptional locals who give it a hum that you can only understand by experiencing it.

Do you have any favorite stores, restaurants, and services in the neighborhood?

My wife and I love to spend our date nights in Cherry Creek. We start with a drink at Forget Me Not, then dinner at Quality Italian or North, and then a night cap somewhere. We feel a family bond among the locals and the great people who work in the area.

What’s the most memorable moment you’ve witnessed so far while working at Del Frisco’s?

It is a toss-up between two events that we had here at Del Frisco’s. The first was Terrell Davis’ Hall of Fame celebration 2017 that was held on our roof top. He was amazing to watch on the football field, but it was even better to talk to him in person because he is super humble and kind. The second would be when Joe Sakic brought the Stanley Cup to our rooftop for a night in August. Joe and his family are incredible people, and it was an honor to celebrate that special day with him. I will always be the local kid that loved cheering for the Avalanche. The part that will never be forgotten is when we introduced my 8-year-old daughter to him and told him, “Aria wants to be a hockey player when she grows up,” and he took a picture with her. It’s something that she will never forget!

GAVIN BERRY

DEL FRISCO’S GRILLE

He’s been a staple of Cherry Creek North for the past seven years, and a member of the Board of Directors for the Cherry Creek Chamber of Commerce for the last five years. Needless to say, Gavin Berry knows a thing or two about the neighborhood. He also knows all about hospitality, fine dining, and managing elite teams as the General Manager for Del Frisco’s Grill. Without further ado, meet our latest Man About Town.

What’s the last movie that you’ve enjoyed watching?

My wife and I went to see Where the Crawdads Sing. I thought the movie was great and even got choked up for a second at the end. For me, there is nothing like watching movies with your kids along with popcorn, candy, and lots of blankets. We often have family movie nights at my house and we did just that for Hocus Pocus 2. Maybe it wasn’t as great as the first one, but it was fun to watch this one with my kids!

Do you read? Do you have a book or website that you’re enjoying at the moment?

I am reading Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey. It’s a combination of advice and a biography through the eyes of the famous actor. I always have admired how Matthew holds himself and commits himself to his roles.

What’s your favorite item on the Del Frisco’s Grille menu right now?

I cannot simply answer just one because it depends on the day and my mood. The top three are the Fish and Chips (made with Haddock), the Steak Salad, and a Ribeye with truffle mac and cheese. I can pair any of these with a martini from our bartenders, who are some of the best in the business!

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

I received very simple yet profound words from a great uncle. “If you just do the right thing, young man, then you are going to have a very successful life.” Doing the right thing is not always the easiest, but it has always been important to me. I have a lot of long-time friendships with people I work with who I’ve known for years. I think it’s because I know that treating others right will create friendships that will last a lifetime.

What are the three things that you can’t live without? My wife, my daughters, and coffee to keep up with all of them. Family is one of the most important things to me and it’s something that we are teaching our kids. You can never give your kids too many people to love them and help them grow to be great human beings.

Who are your five dream guests to join you at a dinner party, and what are you eating?

Michael Jordan, Babe Ruth, JFK, my wife Alison Berry, and Elton John. We would be enjoying a ton of seafood like King Crab legs, Prime Rib, sautéed asparagus and, for dessert, the lemon cake from Del Frisco’s. We would cheers with a 2016 Quintessa red wine, and maybe a couple of espresso martinis to end the evening!

The most fun you’ve had in any city is where?

That’s a tough one. The most fun times I have ever had have occurred right here in Denver. I am a Colorado native, and I love my hometown. They say we are a dying breed, but if you are a native, then you know a lot of the other natives (my wife included). I sometimes wish I moved and lived in another city, but I never found a good enough reason to leave a place that I love and care about so much. I also think being in the restaurant industry is another reason the city feels like home because of the community you find with others who work in the hospitality industry. I did get to spend a week in New York in the fall of 2019, and it was unlike anything I could have imagined. The vibe and the food were stellar and I would go back anytime!

What would you tell your 18-year-old self now? Invest in a house now because only time will reap the rewards and set you up for a great future. Work hard because that is who you are and you will never let yourself down knowing you did the work to get there. Be ready when Ali comes in to your life because she is the love of your life and when you find that love, hold onto it forever.

MASON MILLS | HOTEL CLIO

Stylish, savvy and as sweet as they come. Texan-turned-Coloradoan Mason Mills has quickly become a fixture of the Cherry Creek community, helming marketing for the ultra-chic Hotel Clio with unmatched panache. Here, we explore the hot spots and style secrets that make our latest Gal About Town tick.

What is your favorite aspect of Cherry Creek North? Cherry Creek North has it all! Amazing shopping, fine dining, exquisite art galleries, great local businesses and fabulous luxury hotels. You have an extraordinary community where people love to explore.

Talk about Hotel Clio’s recent transformation. Having the opportunity to bring the Hotel Clio story to life has been such an incredible journey. Discovering ways to activate our spaces and align with local partners has been incredible. We are all about inspiring our guests through each part of their stay. At check-in,all guests receive a Jasper Stone with their room key which is meant to ignite your inspirational journey from the moment you arrive. Our guest rooms feature a beautiful guest guide that shares the stories of Hotel Clio, recommendations in the neighborhood and even meditative breathing techniques provided by VIVE Float Studio. We also have Daily Epicurean Moments which might include a guacamole tasting, Spanish wine tasting or even a CevicheMaking Class. Guests who prefer to seek inspiration outside our doors can enjoy a guided tour of Cherry Creek by a member of our fabulous concierge team. Marriott aims to have all Luxury Collection hotels be a “destination authority” and I think Clio hit the mark.

Favorite neighborhood haunts? I have so many! Right next door to the hotel are two amazing art galleries, Clayton Lane Fine Art and Relevant Art Gallery. I love peeking in and seeing what new and amazing pieces they have featured. Some of my favorite wellness businesses in Cherry Creek include CYL Sauna, Hydrate IV Bar, The NOW and VIVE Float Studio. When it comes to shopping, I like Inspyre and A-Line boutiques.

Describe your personal style. A mix of cute casual and sleek chic. I am all about comfort but will squeeze my feet into a fabulous Jimmy Choo shoe if I must! I love incorporating a nice pop here and there, whether that means fun earrings, bold shoes, or a snazzy belt.

Who are your five dream dinner party guests and what are you eating?

Reese Witherspoon, Kris Jenner, Kendra Scott, Kate Middleton and Jennifer Aniston. A powerhouse of women who have all launched successful brands. It would be fascinating to hear their secrets to life and success stories. My guests would first be greeted with a

cheese board and a glass of cabernet from Hall Winery (my all-time favorite). We would enjoy a mixed green salad with avocado, goat cheese, purple onion and cucumber sprinkled on top. Our main entrée would be chicken pesto pasta...with plenty of parmesan cheese. For dessert we would have Blue Bell Vanilla Bean Ice Cream (I am from Texas so no other ice cream beats Blue Bell) with fresh berries accompanied by 10-year Tawny port wine.

Favorite way to relax on a weekend? I love running around my Denver neighborhood or doing an Orange Theory Class. Then a low-key evening at home spent with my fiancé Miles, our close friends, a good bottle of wine, a cheese board and a Nancy Meyers rom-com.

What’s your favorite Cherry Creek restaurant and what do you order?

Toro, of course! I think Chef Oscar Padilla does such a great job of creating a lively and flavorful menu that keeps people wanting more. I highly recommend the Sweet Corn Empanadas and Lomo Saltado. I also love Hillstone. My fiancé and I enjoy spending date nights there. I always get their Crisp Martini and the Campfire Barbecue Ribs for my entrée. They fall off the bone and are just incredible.

What city have you had the most fun in? Palm Springs. My family took me there for the Indian Wells tennis tournament. We stayed at the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort, a beautiful property that sits right on a small lake. They have little gondolas that can pick you up right in the middle of the lobby for a ride. It’s fabulous.

Who is your style icon? Jennifer Aniston and Sandra Bullock. They both have such a simplistic elegance to their overall style that I love to try to incorporate into my own!

Most beautiful place you’ve visited in Colorado? In the world? Beaver Creek has my heart. My parents would take my sister and I there in the summers when we were growing up. I also recently got engaged there, so it holds special meaning to me. In the world, Nice, Italy, is one of the most magical places I have ever been to. It’s a tiny little town that is right on the water and houses so much history as well. It’s one of those places that is hard to put into words how beautiful and amazing it is.

OFFERiNG AN ALL NATURAL APPROACH TO STRESS INDUCED

ILLNESSES | RESPiRATORY

DiSTRESS | AUTOiMMUNE

CHRONiC PAiN | iNFLAMMATiON

OVERALL WELL-BEiNG + MORE

HEALTHY & HAPPY HOUR

WED-FRi

he said she said

POSTINO

We’re married. We work together. We see each other all the time. So, what could we possibly talk about while out for dinner? In this case, food. And lots of it. Join at Postino.

He: I haven’t had a bite to eat yet and I already love this place. The lighting, the bookshelves, the wall of sunglasses – the design and creativity is fantastic. The 1980s alternative rock that’s playing is a fantastic time warp too. If Molly Ringwald or Rob Lowe walk in here, we should ask them to sit with us

She: Well I would hope so! I agree…it’s warm and inviting and, at the same time, funky and eclectic. Dark and moody but not depressing. The perfect place for happy hour! It would make a great first date, too. Small plates that you can move through at your own pace, and plenty of wine!

He: : Since we’re old and we got here at 5:30, it’s been fun to watch the cocktail crowd transform into the dinner crowd. This place is busy and I can see why.

We’re parents of two toddlers. We aren’t old, we’re tired!

He: It’s unbelievable. But for me, the most unexpected thing on the board is the corn nuts. I haven’t had them in decades. My orthodontist hated me because I ate corn nuts with braces on and ruined them time and time again. But Dr. Marsters isn’t here, my braces are off, so tonight is fair game!

She: Moving into the hardier dishes, we have the “OMG Grilled Cheese.” I didn’t know what to expect but I couldn’t be happier with this. When we come back (when, not if), I am ordering one to myself as my meal. It is next level.

I think it’s difficult to make a bad grilled cheese, but I think it’s more difficult to make an unforgettably outstanding grilled cheese. This is the latter. And the tomato soup dunk is going to be very popular as the weather cools down.

She: Let’s not forget the wine! I am a sucker for a good name and a good label, and I am excited to try this OPP (Other People’s Pinot).

He: I’m down.

She: Ha! It’s a great, smooth wine and incredible value. I am impressed. I love Willamette Valley Pinots, and this one hits the nail on the head.

He: Plus, they go perfectly with these meatballs. Good lord…just another example of a delicious small plate that we’ve had. There are no duds, and there’s great variety with the menu. Another thing that we could make a meal out of in and of itself.

She: Absolutely! I am also really excited for our bruschetta board. It’s arguably what they’re best known for and the flight we ordered sounds amazing. Pepper Jam & Goat Cheese, Fig, Brie & Apple, and Burrata and Bacon. It’s quite the lineup.

He: Admittedly, I was not very well versed with bruschetta before tonight. The few times I’ve had it, the bread was hard enough to break glass. Not only does Postino take bruschetta seriously, but the bread is the perfect taste and texture, light and crunchy, but not stealing the show for all the good stuff up top.

She: We can’t leave without dessert. The Chocolate Bouchon and the Salted Caramel Sundae sound up our alley.

He: They sound up anyone’s alley. And while I expected to favor the sundae, the bouchon is winning for me. And I am not even a chocolate person.

She: Warm choloate ganache and vanilla ice cream? The perfect end to a perfect meal.

Kevin and Betsy Marr are “He” and ‘She.” They work and live in the Denver area, where they produce Cherry Creek Magazine and raise their two toddler boys…all under one roof.

ROCHELLE MCNAUGHTON & TIM THEIN

With so many opportunities to view real estate online, certain educated buyers no longer need real estate brokers to showcase their superior listings. We are very proud to continue giving as much personal advice as possible to help all sellers, buyers and individuals looking for design tips. We truly enjoy working with everyone – buyers, sellers, investors, and design enthusiasts in all aspects of the real estate industry. In our “Designing for the Sale” series, we will continue to offer the most up-to-date tips on creating a home with style that will sell for top dollar in Colorado’s unprecedented market.

design-driven,

Sheer Beauty

Window treatments will make a room look exponentially more “finished” and will add both warmth and sophistication. We think that less is more. A simple look such as the gorgeous sheers shown here is always a great choice. Hung from the ceiling, they can even make the room feel taller. Added bonus? Add an electric remote so they can be opened and closed with the touch of a button!

Add Layers

Layering sheers with drapes is a great way to have options when it comes to allowing natural light in. Try a two tone drape in neutral colors to add dimension to the room. This makes the space interesting and beautifully styled without overdoing it or using a fabric that will be outdated within a few years. Neutral hues are also very soothing and help to create a serene space.

Match the Wall

One way to achieve a very clean, contemporary look is to match your window treatments to your wall color, much like the simple custom draperies shown here. The look is chic and uniform, allowing your furnishings and decor to take center stage. Tone on tone window and wall treatments can also make a space appear larger than it actually is.

Rochelle McNaughton

303.929.9001

rochelle.mcnaughton@livsothebysrealty.com

Tim Thein

303.478.5475

tim.thein@livsothebysrealty.com

Today’s buyers are discerning and

making it more important than ever for a home to be not only inviting and attractive, but also up-to-date before it hits the market. FOR THE SALE

RYAN MOORE BLANCO COCINA + CANTINA

Blanco Cocina + Cantina has been gaining raving fans since it opened its 9th and Colorado doors. With its consistently delicious Mexican fare and a house full of every type of tequila imaginable, we can see why. We sit down with mixologist Ryan Moore to learn the ins and outs of cocktails, Blanco style.

What’s the best drink we’ve never had?

With the espresso martini craze going on right now, it surprises me that most guests haven’t tried a Carajillo. You simply shake Licor 43 with espresso and serve over ice.

Is there a cocktail with a particularly interesting backstory that you appreciate?

I love the story behind the Ranch Water. Ranchers would take a swig of their topo chico, add tequila, and a little fresh lime juice. Try the Tiki Ranch Water at Blanco. It’s the ultimate way to refresh on a hot day.

How did you get into the industry?

I got my first job with Fox Restaurant Concepts (FRC) at 18, working as a dish washer at North Italia in Tucson, Arizona. From dishwashing to serving to bartending, I was able to advance and learn every function of a restaurant. I fell in love with the hospitality industry and making people happy. Eleven years later, I haven’t looked back.

SPICED MEZCAL DAIQUIRI:

makeit

.75 oz .75 oz FRESH LIME CINNAMON SYRUP

.5 oz POMEGRANATE JUICE

.5 oz ST GEORGE SPICE PEAR

.75 oz BANHEZ ENSEMBLE

.75 oz CORAZON BLANCO

SERVE OVER ICE, OR BLENDED.

What’s the vibe at Blanco?

Think of Blanco Cocina + Cantina as your own personal “escape from reality.” From the moment guests walk in, they can soak in the carefree vibes and relax on what feels like a vacation in their neighborhood. No matter what time of day it is, the bright and welcoming oasis will draw you in and the tequila shots will taste like you have the day off tomorrow. From the fun music and vibrant décor to the incredibly fresh cuisine, it’s a feel-good-energy all around. So, come on in, close your eyes and imagine an ocean breeze running through your hair…and enjoy a margarita or two. It’s always 5 o’clock at Blanco.

What’s the funniest or strangest thing you’ve ever overheard from a patron while behind the bar?

One time I overheard a bar guest casually suggesting that he had a pet monkey at home. I (and every other patron there that day) didn’t believe him. Two hours later, he comes back in and I am standing there face-to-face with a real-life monkey.

Is there a particular drink that you love to make?

A margarita! I love to make any variation because the possibilities are endless. You can experiment with so many fruits, flavors, and spices.

What’s the oddest drink order you’ve ever received?

A Negroni sbagliato with prosecco.

Where do you get your inspiration?

Inspiration is everywhere! My co-workers, friends, family, music, movies and especially listening to our guests.

blancococinacantina.com/@blancotacostequila

HIS

The best basketball players in the world looking to avenge some humiliating losses. A groundbreaking music journalist who was the heart of Rolling Stone Magazine. One of the best films of the past few years centered around vengeance. A crime novel based off a Robert DeNiro/ Al Pacino masterpiece. A little bit of everything, and a whole lot of satisfaction with what entertained me in the past few months.

THE REDEEM TEAM

VIEW MASTER

WHAT WE’RE CURRENTLY WATCHING + READING

In 2004, USA’s Olympic basketball team was dealt a shocking defeat for the first time in the history of the Olympic games using NBA players, all the while being stacked with the best players in the world on its roster. With the much-needed addition of Kobe Bryant to right the ship with teammates like Dwyane Wade, LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony, the team seeks redemption as they pursue the gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Games.

Watch it on Netflix

LIKE A ROLLING STONE: THE LIFE & TIMES OF BEN FONG-TORRES

No one knew music and could interview and write about the early rock n roll scene quite like the legendary Ben Fong-Torres. He was Rolling Stone Magazine and put the iconic music publication on the map. This fascinating documentary chronicles his life as a journalist and how the Rolling Stone writer and editor defined an era through his relationships with music royalty who changed the world with their songs.

Watch it on Peacock and Prime Video

HERS

A self-described “tragicomedy” set in Italy, a raunchy sitcom within a sitcom, and a satirical show that touches on the absurdity of family and fame in today’s tuned in society. All of these are ideal for holiday binge watching.

REBOOT

I am not sure there is a producer today who is funnier than Steven Levitan (Modern Family) and Reboot proves the point. In this “show within a show,” Hulu pretends to follow the reboot trend we’ve seen with sitcoms like Full House with the fictitious late ‘80s program Step Right Up. What unfurls is a series of hilarious, witty, raunchy dialogue between a network exec (Paul Reiser),

his disgruntled showrunner-daughter (Rachel Bloom) and the original, 20-years-older cast (Judy Greer, Johnny Knoxville, Keegan-Michael Key, and Calum Worthy). When it’s not about the actors, the show has a roster of scenestealers in its writer’s room. Made up of equal parts old school and new school talent, the personalities create a walking HR nightmare with their inappropriate zingers and un-PC banter in a decidedly PC era.

Watch it on Hulu

THE WHITE LOTUS

Back for a second season, this runaway hit by TV phenom Mike White centers on the notion of everyday squabbles and relationship woes snowballing into their own highly dramatized horror stories. The “tragicomedy” is based on the fictitious albeit familiar White Lotus resort brand (think Four Seasons) and follows the lives of its guests over the course of a week – which ultimately end in uncharacteristically sinister scenarios. Season Two takes the audience from the Hawaiian Islands where the show originally took place, to the stunning shores of Italy at the White Lotus’ dreamlike Sicilian locale. With it, new faces (and some old, including the imitable Jennifer Coolidge) appear alongside gripping new storylines. Greed, sex, murder and a sharp thread of cutting humor are all woven throughout the show, along with a star-studded cast that includes the likes of Michael Imperioli, Aubrey Plaza, and F. Murray Abraham.

Watch it on HBO Max

HEAT 2: A NOVEL

Already an instant New York Times bestseller, Michael Mann, four-time-Oscar-nominated writer-director of The Last of the Mohicans, The Insider, Ali, Miami Vice, Collateral, and Heat, teams up with Edgar Award–winning author Meg Gardiner to deliver Mann’s first novel, it’s an explosive return to the universe and characters of his classic crime film—with an all-new story unfolding in the years before and after the iconic movie.

Buy it on Amazon

VENGEANCE

B.J. Novak of The Office fame, wrote, directed and stars in this comedy mystery thriller about a writer from New York City who attempts to solve the murder of a girl he hooked up with. So, he travels down south to Texas to investigate the circumstances of her death and discover what happened to her. In a year where I haven’t been all that enamored with our film options, Vengeance checked a lot of boxes for originality, solid writing, character development and humor, all rolled into this ‘Who dunnit?’

THE OTHER TWO

Molly Shannon is on television fire these days, and The Other Two is no exception. In this series, the lives of Shannon’s adult children, Cary and Brooke, are upended when their teenage brother, Chase, becomes a famous singer overnight. Shedding hilarious light on the absurdity of social media, pop culture and today’s human condition, The Other Two is as charming as it is inappropriate. Season One follows the mega-rise and near-fall of “Chase Dreams,” while Season Two hones in on Shannon’s new Cary as a beloved daytime talk show host. Along the way, Cary and Brooke become the unlikely central characters who offer the audience both humor and heart.

Watch it on HBO Max

Watch

PATRICK KANE MCGREGOR

She might be the prettiest woman in Cherry Creek North. She’s certainly the tallest at around 25 feet. She’s the jewel of The Jacquard. You can’t miss her, nor do the cameras. Brigitte Bardot was a legendary French actress, singer, model and sex symbol of the ‘50s and ‘60s, and her larger-than-life image has graced the valet entrance of The Jacquard hotel since the property’s 2018 opening. But how did she get here? Meet Patrick Kane McGregor.

You’re a local boy, having grown up in Wheat Ridge, and your introduction to art came through graffiti and painting letters, right?

I was into that stuff when I was a teenager and into my 20s, and I got a job doing handpainted advertising at the same time, so I started learning how to paint realism and letters with brushes rather than with spray paint.

How did this progress your skillset and development as an artist?

The group of guys I painted with didn’t paint for the masses, but instead we painted to impress each other. You get better that way and you learn stuff when you paint with others. With any type of art, the more you do it, the better you get. I also had a few mentors who pushed me through a couple of doors that wouldn’t have opened if I wasn’t working with them. One of them was a sign and billboard painter whose name was actually Art! I was cleaning his brushes and just watched him paint and he’d teach me stuff and tell me what was he doing and why. That really sunk in with me and made me a much better painter.

Were you destined to do murals and sign painting?

Back in the 1990s, it was a harder job to get. I got lucky getting into it with the people that I did. Nowadays, it’s a little easier to be an artist because there are more venues. Back then, you worked for Disney or a sign shop because there just weren’t a lot of options. There wasn’t the internet and social media where you could promote your work.

How did the Brigitte Bardot mural project at The Jacquard come about?

I was approached to do something for the grand opening of the hotel in 2018. We talked about how Cherry Creek North is a fashion district, and I started thinking of models who we could paint before the era of technology and cell phones. Brigitte Bardot was one of the first supermodels back then, so the notion of her taking a selfie is a bit of humor. The Birkin bag hiding around the corner is also an ode to the fashion world. Growing up, Brigitte Bardot and Sophia Loren were my favorite old Hollywood actresses, and I loved the nostalgia they evoke. I actually painted the mural with my son Tristan. He has branched out as an artist now, but he used to be my apprentice. We did it in about a week. I still get compliments it on years later.

esotericartdenver.com/@patrickkanemcgregor

What are you doing lately?

My bread and butter is advertising. I just did a project in Los Angeles on the wall next to the Pantages Theater for the latest Call of Duty game. I also paint a lot of dogs. I can paint anything, but that’s what I enjoy. I recently did a project in RiNo. The interaction between humans and dogs has always fascinated me. They’re our best friends and they tend to hold such a special place in our hearts. I love focusing on the details and color of fur, eyes and wrinkles on dogs. I find them as I go for inspiration and if I don’t find one then I’ll paint one of my own dogs. I like to brainstorm with people involved and come up with something that lasts.

Well, Brigitte Bardot is no dog, but it’s guaranteed that she’s built or, in this case, painted to last. And Cherry Creek North is more gorgeous because of it.

home COMING

SERENITY IN CHERRY CREEK NORTH

WORDS BY BETSY MARR | DESIGN BY JANE BRADFORD | PHOTOS BY SUSIE BRENNER

Oftentimes, a new home marks a new chapter in our lives – a new beginning that will set the stage for decades of memories. Such was the case with this classic Cherry Creek North home. Denver-based designer Jane Bradford and her talented team had one key objective when designing the contemporary space – creating serenity. “We wanted to design a sophisticated yet comfortable space with a timeless aesthetic,” Bradford explains. “We did this by bringing an organic nature to the home while still retaining a strong, timeless, yet modern vibe.”

With this in mind, Bradford honed in on “forever” pieces that would age gracefully over time versus bringing in items simply to fill the space. “We focused on choosing pieces that not only fit the scale of the home but that also offered tactile and visual interest.” Unique textures, organic lines and mirrored surfaces to play off the natural light that floods the space all spark curiosity. “We wanted to shy away from loud patterns that might lock the client into one style or era,” Bradford says. Instead, the team embraced color through artwork and accents inspired by the blues and greens that are found in nature.

This Page: The dining room, which Bradford admits is her favorite space in the home, boasts large-scale organic artwork with metallic leafing applied to the pieces, which reflect light to create a subtle yet stunning effect. A dining table by Kravet creates a visual path to the courtyard oasis, while dual Visual Comfort lantern-style chandeliers evoke interest.

beautiful

Soft blue upholstery, neutral hues and a mix of textures helped achieve the goal of creating serenity and beauty throughout

Opposite

This Page: A mirrored bar with a lighted interior is both sophisticated and timeless, while grasscloth inlay doors embrace texture. A soft ivory leather bench with Greek key wooden edge detail complements the piece.

Opposite Page, Top: In keeping with the edict of embracing the home’s natural light with

reflective surfaces, a coffee table by Modern History is punctuated by an irregular edge that reflects light and adds an organic feel to the room.

Page, Middle and Below:

the home.

In the formal dining room, large-scale, organic artwork was used to create a stunning focal wall that perfectly accents the grandeur of the Kravet dining table. Above, two contemporary lanterns by Visual Comfort offer dimension while also adding a soft glow to the space. Nearby, a unique accent table was placed in the living room to provide both form and function. “We loved the silhouette of this table and how it has such strong visual nuance. It is what you first see when you enter the room from the den, so we wanted that table to be a piece of art as well as serve a purpose,” Bradford continues.

Likewise, the team incorporated a cabinet-style bar with a distinct texture and unique interior lighting that exudes sleek

sophistication. “We wanted to embrace texture, and the grasscloth inlay on the doors achieves that nicely.” Another of Bradford’s favorite pieces? The mirrored coffee table by Modern History in the family room, which boasts an irregular, live edge style to reflect the light while feeling natural in its tone.

Ultimately, the use of eclectic but enduring pieces led to a home that is both calming and contemporary, something that was of the utmost importance to Bradford and her team. “Our goal was to create a home that our client felt proud of, a home that she felt represented her,” the designer attests. “She is an incredibly strong woman who bleeds sophistication and class, and her home needed to do the same. She has such a big heart and so much compassion, respect, and empathy for humanity. Working with her was truly a privilege and I hope that she takes pride in the home that we helped her create.”

Top Left: A bold graphic wallcovering makes a statement in the powder bath.

Center: The kitchen island was painted a calming shade of blue to add character and cohesion without a major overhaul.

Bottom Left: The designer loved this unique table’s silhouette for the strong visual interest it evokes. “We wanted that table to be a piece of art as well as serve a purpose in the room,” she says.

Our goal was to create a home that our client felt proud of, a home that she felt represented her. She is an incredibly strong woman who bleeds sophistication and class, and her home needed to do the same.

JANE BRADFORD

“

A new level of luxury.

45 minutes west and 2,000 feet above Denver lies Monarch Casino Resort Spa. Exquisite guest rooms. Expanded gaming with no limits on the bets you can place. Five restaurants rich with culinary adventure. World-class treatments in our 23rd-floor Spa Monarch. You’ll never settle for less.

UP&AWAY

FROM CELEBRITY PARTNERS TO A PRE-COVID LAUNCH, THE INSIDE STORY

BEHIND CLMBR’S STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN

BY KEVIN MARR

Avrum Elmakis solved the puzzle without needing to buy any vowels from Pat Sajak.

CLMBR.

“Much like Elon Musk didn’t invent the car, I didn’t invent climbing as a modality. Somebody else did that,” Elmakis shares from his Cherry Creek office. “My job in this was how to make it the absolute best expression of that modality.”

It’s the most efficient, safe-for-all-ages, high-intensity cardio workout in the world, whose impressive array of partners is providing a new, fully-immersive connected workout experience unlike any other.

And Avrum’s story has been one hell of a climb so far.

He’s a thinker and a doer, with the apple not falling far from the tree. His father, born in Morocco, graduated with a degree in engineering from Virginia Tech. His mother, a native of South Africa, was a social worker and mother of two. The family would end up in Newport News, Virginia, where his dad worked on nuclear-capable ships for Newport News Shipbuilding as a government contractor.

“It was a crazy place to grow up. There was a lot of culture and a very diverse population. Newport News is notoriously known as a bad area, so you stay focused with your head down and you get your work

done,” he discloses. “Coming through an immigrant family household as a first-generation American, that’s typically where you’re seeing a really hard work ethic and a pursuit of a lot of different things.”

Those “different things” translated to jobs after college in Richmond, Virginia, that would help shape and navigate this incredible journey. “My first job was with Mac Tools, a division of Stanley Black & Decker. This is the tool truck I drove around,” pointing to the toy model perched at the head of his desk. From there, he continued to build his resume and experience in pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and financial sales – all avenues where he was absorbed into the business development of selling products and connecting with customers.

Then, in 2007, Elmakis and his wife Lauren pulled the trigger and put their business forecast in a new gear, betting it all on themselves. It was a decision that would change their lives forever.

The venture was a line of natural dog treats and chews, and its conception is one of those entrepreneurial stories that is scripted for the American dream. “I was working a full-time job. Lauren was working a fulltime job. We were renting a two-bedroom condo in Richmond,” Elmakis explains. “I just had this intense belief that others would share the passion for health and wellness for their pets the same way Lauren and I do. And that was true.” The spare bedroom is where the company began, until it ballooned to hundreds of employees, and Avrum and Lauren were on their way.

Coming through an immigrant family household as a firstgeneration American, that’s typically where you’re seeing a really hard work ethic and a pursuit of a lot of different things.

So, how do you go from a life-changing business venture with dog treats and chews to a reconfigured fitness machine, the likes of which have changed the way people work out and live today? “My version of entrepreneurship is to build things based on my experience, and I’ve tended to focus on health and wellness and things like that. Just like the pet treats, CLMBR became self-evident that there was an opportunity to create something better.”

Elmakis was a triathlete. He cycled. He swam. He ran. In fact, he ran from stress right into the life of a triathlete, “As an entrepreneur, the level of stress that you deal with is intense,” he confides. “It comes in waves with really good days and really bad days. For me, it was an outlet to help with mental pressure and stress and not focus on the day-to-day of what I had to do.”

“For me, I’ve always had grit. I’ve always had determination and an insane work ethic, and that matched being a triathlete. To do that well and enjoy it, it takes a lot of training and discipline. There were days when I went on six-hour bike rides. I would put on my wetsuit and go into the James River in Richmond and swim against the current in the morning before work. It’s this natural fuel that’s in all of us that helped weather these storms when they came. I always say it’s like building armor. For anybody, I’d say moving is better than not moving.”

As we chat, I spy a treadmill behind his desk. “What’s that all about?” I ask.

“I walk every day at my standing desk,” he says with a chuckle. “Rarely am I seated, and rarely am I sitting still or standing still. I usually walk between five and 13 miles a day when I’m at the office. Why sit all day and then sit to work out?”

CLMBR is all vertical, and that’s by design as he astutely explains, “As we progress through our human existence, we go through our cognitive decline. We get Dementia, Alzheimer’s, Multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease. The really cool thing about CLMBR is that we made it upright because a lot of people have trouble sitting down. You’re not going to find an 85-yearold with Fibromyalgia

So, with his experience with lower back pain, neck pain, sore shins, ankles, knees and hips, Elmakis knows whereof he speaks when it comes to comfortable and effective exercise options. When he first encountered a VersaClimber machine, he realized that there was a better way to do it and that the equipment was inherently not what he wanted it to be or what he thought it should be.

And that, according to Elmakis, is why CLMBR was born.

Present day sees the 41-year-old husband and father of four dressed in workout clothes and sneakers, having already gotten a morning sweat out of the way, and now behind a desk in his corner office. The office walls are adorned with assorted displays of artwork and motivational quotes, perhaps reminding this serial entrepreneur where he came from and how he got here.

and Parkinson’s anywhere else but on a CLMBR. Also, most of the other workout options are 45 minutes to an hour. We’re 30 minutes. Other options are also high impact exercises, and I don’t do a lot of that in my life. I want to preserve what I’ve got as long as I can. It appeals to people looking for safety and time efficiency.”

CLMBR has also appealed to some of the biggest and well-known names in the world. LeBron James, tennis star Novak Djokovic, and Super Bowl Champion Odell Beckham Jr. are elite athletes who have invested, joining YouTube co-founder Chad Hurley, media personality Ryan Seacrest, and music titan and billionaire entrepreneur Jay-Z, to name a few. In explaining this collection of famous partners, Elmakis’ reasoning is rather simple, “Fitness is a passion that cuts through sport, entertainment, lifestyle and humanity. It helps them in

James River in Richmond, Virginia

their pursuit of what they choose to do in their life. It’s intensely physical to be an entertainer and an athlete at the highest level. Your body is creating your revenue, but CLMBR is also preserving their longevity with less impact and less time. Ultimately, these are smart people. You don’t just become a Jay-Z. That takes years of blood, sweat, and tears to even get close to having an opportunity to be somebody at the level.”

However, the rich and famous get pitched investment opportunities all the time. So, what closes the deal? It starts with the product and whether it’s something that potential partners can see the value in for themselves. If he had sent LeBron a deck for a treadmill, a bicycle, or a row machine, he doesn’t think he’d have gotten the same response as something like CLMBR that’s something wholly new, differentiated, unique, and, as Elmakis puts it, “just has this beauty to it that calls to you.”

I wonder out loud to Elmakis, considering his incredible path to CLMBR, what his advice would be to any inspiring entrepreneur, and his response is simple, “Start small. CLMBR is big. It’s different than a natural dog treat or dog chew. There’s a much different level of complexity, but, before I’d gotten to that, I had dealt with supply chains, personnel, human resources, capital raising and exits, and all those things for 13 years. That’s a sharpening of the intellect that can only be gained through experience and not something that you can get taught or read in a book.”

While launching in October of 2018, CLMBR had big plans for the evolution of the brand until the pandemic hit. Adjustments had to be made and additional partnerships and strategies had to be scrapped while the world was faced with an unknown future.

Where are things today?

Elmakis says with a smile, “We’re retrenching under our original vision to be an omni-channel company, so we want to serve the healthcare community, the physical therapy community, the gym, the physical fitness community in the B2B (business-to-business) space while serving customers at home and through retailers. I think we’re very close with our Gen2 product coming out and our reassessment of team size and structure with our better understanding of the markets, the dynamics, and the new rules of the game that we’re all having to play by. I think we’re well positioned for a very exciting future.”

Avrum Elmakis has the pedal to the metal. Full steam ahead. His business plan is just getting started now that COVID appears to be tailing off. But you know what? All those bike rides, long runs, and swims in frigid rivers are paying off because he’s not worried about it.

“If it doesn’t work out, then that’s ok too. You get up and you try again. The most successful people I know had plenty of failures along the way to success. I always live by the tenant that, at the end of this life, regardless of what you do, your regret will be the risks you didn’t take and the people you chose not to help.”

One thing is for sure, he’s had great training for this climb.

As we progress through our human existence, we go through our cognitive decline. We get Dementia, Alzheimer’s, Multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease. The really cool thing about CLMBR is that we made it upright because a lot of people have trouble sitting down. You’re not going to find an 85-year-old with Fibromyalgia and Parkinson’s anywhere else but on a CLMBR.

“

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THE STANLEY CUP CHEF THE STANLEY CUP CHEF

Wordsby KevinMarr

e’s the trivia answer to a very unique and distinct question…

Who’s the only person to cook exclusively for Denver Bronco legend Von Miller and, more currently, for the Colorado Avalanche Stanley Cup Champions Nathan MacKinnon, Gabriel Landeskog, and Erik Johnson?

You’re not going to guess who. That’s why I’m writing this feature in the first place because he’s an extraordinary master in the kitchen, and an even more impressive person.

Meet Curtis Bell.

“I know I’m not their buddy. I’m there to do something for them. I am the help,” Bell says with the utmost conviction.

I’m blown away by his candor. Curtis is a straight shooter and calls it like he sees it, but damn…it’s been a while since I’ve come across this kind of blunt honesty about one’s self. But, at the end of the day, he’s right. “As sad as that might sound,” he continues, “it’s just to put yourself in check, so that you don’t get too comfortable. It’s a privilege to work for them, and it’s one that I don’t want to take for granted. That’s one of the biggest reasons why I’ve never lost a client.”

Bell is a local by way of Lakewood, and his affinity for spectacular food prepared at an elite level was first conceived from going to restaurants with his father as a boy. When he was 10, he was categorically mesmerized by a chef at the former Trinity Grille in downtown Denver, and he realized that it could be a career path. It became his goal to attend the Harvard of culinary schools – the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in Hyde Park, New York.

After graduation, he returned to Denver stacked with the skills and the experience to thrive in the restaurant world. Then, the unimaginable occurred. Bell got burnt out on cooking – or at least cooking in restaurants. His longtime passion had disappeared. A stint in the sales world, as far away from the kitchen as possible, eventually gave way to a phone call from an old friend and mentor, highly regarded Denver chef, Kevin Taylor. The call was in regards to a private chef opportunity for a family that Bell knew, and it was cause for pause for the former chef, “I never pushed myself towards being a private chef, but it was always something that had been developing in the background while I was doing other things,” he explains.

So, he went for it. Then, separate of that new client, a tryout for another potential partnership revealed itself to be Von Miller. Bell would land that job as well, and cook for the future NFL Hall of Famer for three seasons. In 2020, an unassuming connection on Instagram with one of the NHL’s biggest stars in Nathan MacKinnon

would lead to what Bell can only describe as serendipitous. Sometimes, it really is that easy. “The power of social media,” Bell begins with an astonished tone. “Nate added me on Instagram and we struck up a conversation. I had listened to him on a podcast talking about his diet, what he eats at intermissions during games, and his overall nutrition, and I’m thinking that this guy really takes his health seriously. So, I message him, ‘If you ever want some help with meals and snacks then I’d be happy to help.’ He responded by saying that he’d been looking for a chef for a while, so we got on a call and made it happen.”

From there began two organic peas in a pod. MacKinnon is known throughout the league as the most disciplined eater you’ll meet, and Bell’s previous experience with Miller already solidifies his repertoire for taking care of world-class athletes.

So, now it’s go time. Bell compares cooking during the NHL season to a marathon. Once it starts, there’s no stopping. And while MacKinnon is in a constant cycle of training and taking care of his body, he’s not the only one in this partnership who needs to stay in shape. Most people might not know this, but cooking is notorious for putting the body under constant strain and duress, so Bell held his own offseason training with daily visits to the gym and getting outside in the sun to take advantage of that Vitamin D. Bell explains, “Exercising regularly keeps the blood moving and it’s better for your mental health. To be in great routines physically, mentally and within your work means that I can handle more than if I’m not in good rhythms and routines.”

However, the mental aspect to the task at hand might be even more critical, “Honestly, one of the biggest pieces with this is keeping a good mental health space because it’s really easy to overwork yourself and burn out. Burn out is very real in this industry, but I don’t see myself slowing down anytime soon. If anything, I’m still building momentum.”

He’s a pro. He’s not only obsessively organized with his schedule, but since this isn’t his first rodeo, he’s prepared for anything. What he does is unique not only because of the notoriety of his clientele, but also because of what is demanded, “I have to be in a good rhythm to be continually creative. The hard thing is that I’m cooking for a single person and there are a lot of meals, so I need make sure there’s interest in eating the meals and that the food is intriguing, it tastes good, and I’m changing it up enough so that it doesn’t get boring. I’m constantly trying to come up with new things.”

I’m in awe of the Avalanche locker room in downtown Denver’s Ball Arena. Wellappointed spaces for each player border the walls, showcasing nameplates, team logos, and assorted equipment from helmets and skates to pads and practice jerseys. They’re all perfectly placed for a gorgeous presentation, particularly for guests who aren’t used to this type of behind-the-scenes backdrop. The best hockey team in the world calls this home. Then, Nate MacKinnon appears and I’m half-looking for wings, a cape, a jetpack, or whatever modern day heroes are into these days. There’s none of that. Not all heroes wear capes. Clad in

street clothes, a ball cap, and sneakers, the Stanley Cup champion standing before me has taken time out of his day to chat up his chef.

“Before Curtis, I was always trying to find somebody,” admits MacKinnon. “It’s challenging to find someone who cooks healthy, but also who is good. I could make rice, potatoes and salmon every night, but he makes everything so tasty, and he’s a fine dining chef at heart. It’s been a great experience with him.”

MacKinnon is so locked in with his health and diet that he’s had blood work done to determine what his body’s specific needs are. Bell is cooking based on those findings – something he’d been familiar with when he worked with Von. “That was key,” MacKinnon explains regarding his chef’s prior tenure with the Denver Broncos’ all-time sack leader. “Curtis’ experience around pro athletes was important, not just from a cooking standpoint, but even just the day-to-day. I don’t always want to talk about my games and things like that,” he says with a chuckle. “And he knows how to conduct himself well. It’s been a great fit.”

What’s on the menu?

“He makes everything so well,” Nate says with admiration. “He could tell you my favorites more than I could, but I love the lamb that he makes and the different types of chicken that he stuffs with really healthy things that don’t taste healthy, which is the best thing about it.”

Specifically, as Bell confirms, MacKinnon has eyes for the stuffed chicken with spinach and roasted peppers with a cream-based mustard sauce. He’s also partial to Pad Thai with sweet potato noodles. For the chef, dishes like these are his dream trifecta, “I can get creative. I can add a lot of flavor. And I can give him the nutrition that he needs.”

So, what goes in to cooking for Nathan MacKinnon? It’s not as though Curtis is putting on a show like you see a Benihana, replete with fire balls, an onion volcano and ninja knife moves. A lot of this is behind-the-scenes. He provides postgame meals when MacKinnon gets home if the NHL star didn’t partake in the team-provided meal of pizza or pasta. Bell’s meal allows for something cleaner and leaner, especially during the playoffs when there’s only a day between games.

Chef points out that practice days, days off, and game days are all different in the way that Nate eats, “One rule of thumb is to eat when you’re hungry. Your body will tell you. These guys burn off so many calories that they need to maintain because, if they don’t eat enough, then they’re going to lose weight. Often times, I’ll leave a lot of meals for Nate to eat, and he might tell me that he needs more carbs or protein depending on the meals, how he’s feeling, and what he needs.”

Nathan MacKinon Photos courtesy of Chase Angnello-Dean

Guess who’s coming to dinner.

Birds of a feather flock together and some even live in the same neighborhood, so it became a common sight for Bell to cook not only for MacKinnon, but also for MacKinnon’s regular dinner guest and close friend, Colorado Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog. Perhaps it was the Shawarma-marinated chicken with spices and turmeric that drew him in - a favorite of Landeskog’s. To hear Bell tell it, it didn’t take much to gain a new fan and a new client, “Landy would come over for dinner. They’re neighbors. He was impressed enough to ask me to cook for him.”

And then there were two.

Just a couple of all-time great hockey players who will go down in franchise history as two of the best. And they just brought Denver another Stanley Cup, while you-know-who was feeding them the entire season.

Unfortunately for Landeskog, this season already sees him out of action until 2023 due to knee surgery. In this situation, does it change what his chef feeds him? Absolutely. Fresh turmeric shots address the initial inflammation from surgery. A more anti-inflammatory diet can be expected with the likes of more cruciferous, leafy vegetables to help with the healing process. He’ll get a steady diet of beets because they’re high in iron, and Bell will be pulling back on simple carbs because Gabe’s activity is going to be lower. It’s all about promoting healthy cell growth as soon as possible and minimizing further damage.

I want to know if Curtis sees any similarities between working with Von Miller and working with MacKinnon. He quietly thinks about it for a moment, as though it has never crossed his mind. And you know what? It hadn’t.

“I’d never thought about it from an opportunistic standpoint of cooking for two of the best athletes in their respective sport and giving them the best fuel that they can have. It certainly is unique and rare.” And then he reminisces, “Von always said, ’You’ve got to put premium in the Ferrari.’ Nate is the exact same way. He is so dialed in to anything that will improve his game. He is 100 percent willing to invest in his body and his health. That was similar with Von. And Gabe has the same understanding – if you invest in your body and your nutrition, then you may add years to your career. So, if I’m able to give these guys more years in their sport, then I’m helping them make more money. Talk about return on investment. It’s brilliant from a business perspective, but also for their overall health.”

It sounds like a glamorous and sexy career, doesn’t it? Cooking for the rich and famous. I know good and well that Curtis doesn’t see it that way, but I ask him anyway because the man is so insightful when it comes to his craft. “It’s not necessarily super glamorous, but I’m not working 16 hours a day in a 125-degree kitchen like I would be in a restaurant. I’m my own boss. I’m able to control what’s going on, so if that’s glamorous, sure. It’s not often that I step back and look at the glamorous side of it because I’m so deep in it that I don’t really see it that way. At

the end of the day, they’re just guys who have a very specific job that requires me as a specific tool for their job.”

But there are perks. Namely, attending more Avalanche and Bronco games in the past five or six years than he ever would have otherwise. Then there was the date with the Stanley Cup at a private party courtesy of Erik Johnson – Bell’s latest client from the Avs.

“I’ve always heard throughout my career to invest in your body, and food is a big part of that,” Johnson explains from just outside the team’s Centennial training center locker room. “Curtis obviously knows what he’s doing. Even when we want to have team gettogethers, he’ll come over and make dinner for everyone. It’s just nice to have someone you trust who comes to your house and helps with good, healthy food. He’s super easy to work with. He’s a good guy and the three of us really enjoy using him.”

As if he didn’t have enough going on, Bell has also somehow managed to launch his own brand of chili paste called Miso Heat, “It’s a passion project that is gaining traction. It has multiple distributors, it’s in a lot of stores, and its conception was at a time of burnout for me and I was contemplating whether private chef work was what I wanted to do in the long term. Starting this business has been really thrilling. I still think that one day it will be my exit plan, but I want to grow it and turn it into a nationwide, household name condiment. It’s one of the most unique condiments on the market and I don’t know anyone else who’s combining miso and peppers that can be applied to any food.”

He’s the man with the plan. Miso Heat is meant as a golden parachute later in life, but much later. He’s never been happier with his current calling, “I love how genuinely passionate hockey players are about their sport, their nutrition, and how much they care about the people around them. They’re really great people. They’re so damn nice in general that it makes life a little bit better when your clients are like that. It’s not just a business to them. The goal is to raise that cup over their head. For Nate, you could tell that nothing else mattered other than that. He got it and I’m proud of him.”

Now, if you ’ll excuse him , Chef Curtis Bell has an avalanche of food to prepare.

Erik Johnson - Photos courtesy of Michael Martin

Spend time with your loved ones nestled around a fire, drinking a hot toddy (or cocoa), and enliven your senses with soothing tunes and breathtaking views of the Mile High City! Enjoy curling, cabanas, tailgating, stargazing and more! Enjoy curling, Cabanas, tailgating, sips, stargazing and more! Drink it in- on top of Halcyon!

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN CHRISTOPHER

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL + FATHER + COMMUNITY LEADER

Random people on the street

Where do you like to shop, both locally and online?

Locally I frequent Suitsupply, Burberry, and Neiman Marcus. My favorite place to shop is in Miami. They have THE BEST shopping for men.

Favorite Cherry Creek haunts?

Forget Me Not

Finish the sentence, “To me, style is…”

An expression of your upbringing and who you are today.

Best dressed celebrities past and present?

Past: Christopher Korey

Present: Jerry Lorenzo

BOUTIQUE OWNER + PHILANTHROPIST + MOTHER

Chat with us about your background. What do you do professionally and how do you enjoy spending time personally?

I started my boutique, Mariel, in Larimer Square 40 years ago and moved to Cherry Creek over 10 years ago. I really enjoy helping women embrace different fashions that they may have not considered and making them feel and look their best. I am very social and my husband and I are out and about with friends and family often. We also love to travel.

How long have you been in the Denver area and where are you from originally?

I am a Colorado Native. I have been able to watch the city grow tremendously over the years.

Any charitable organizations you’re involved in?

Throughout the years I have always felt it is important to give back to the community. Some of the charities I have been involved in are Volunteers of America, Latinas First, Children’s Diabetes Foundation, and Denver Center Alliance.

Who was your earliest style influence?

My earliest influencers were Versace, Jean Paul Gaultier, Chanel and, of course, Madonna!

Describe your personal style. My personal style is all over the spectrum. I am lucky because I get to dress up every day. Depending on my mood or where I need to go I like chic, edgy, feminine looks.

Current style icons?

JLO, Kate Middleton and Taylor Swift. They all have their own distinct styles and know who they are. Whatever they are wearing, they wear it with confidence.

Where do you like to shop, both locally and online?

I don’t shop online at all – as a small business owner I just don’t feel great about it when I do. While most of my clothes are admittedly from Mariel, I do often shop while traveling. I love finding unique things that remind me of the places I’ve been and experiences I’ve had.

Favorite Cherry Creek haunts?

Cucina Colore, which is across the street from my store, is a longtime favorite.

Finish the sentence. To me, style is…

Style is not necessarily about the article of clothing but about how you wear it and also about a woman’s inner beauty. That includes her mind and character.

Best dressed celebrities?

Nicole Kidman

Blake Lively

Cher

CREATIVE DIRECTOR + CONCIERGE + PEOPLE PERSON

Chat with us about your background. What do you do professionally and how do you enjoy spending time personally?

I’m the Resident Services Manager at St. Paul Collection in Cherry Creek, which allows me to engage with some of the most interesting and accomplished people in our community on a daily basis. Prior to that, I developed an extensive background in creative direction, working in both New York and Los Angeles. I have had the honor of working with some of the biggest names in the industry in terms of wardrobe, hair, makeup, and set design. I studied at both University of Maryland and NYU. When I am not working, I enjoy traveling, fine dining, shopping, meeting new people and having new experiences.

How long have you been in the Denver area and where are you from originally?

I have been in Denver for six years, but I am originally from Trinidad/Tabago, the dualisland Caribbean nation near Venezuela. My family and I moved to New York City when I was eight-years-old.

Who was your earliest style influence?

My grandparents

Describe your personal style?

Classic. While many types of fashion styles are about trusting the “basics,” nothing can rival the timeless allure of the classic dressing style. Instead of relying on trends, the classic aesthetic is based on refined pieces such as a simple pair of jeans, blazer, great jewelry and accompanying neutral-toned accessories like a great tote or crossbody bag.

Current style icons?

David Beckham

The late Yves Saint Laurent

Tom Ford

Ralph Lauren

Where do you like to shop, both locally and online? Here in Cherry Creek, I love Neiman Marcus, Zara, and Hugo Boss. I also love Bergdorf Goodman, Saks 5th Avenue, Ralph Lauren, and a host of great vintage and consignment shops in London, New York, and Los Angeles.

Finish the sentence, “To me, style is…”

Expression. Style is the ability to distinctively sort through the maze of options, make a selection and do so in a way that is in keeping with how we see ourselves. Style, I believe, is how we define and place a stamp on our personal identity

DEVELOPMENT EXECUTIVE + FASHION EDITOR + MOTHER

Chat with us about your background. What do you do professionally and how do you enjoy spending time personally?

I am the Vice President of Development & Fundraising at Downtown Denver Partnership. My job is all about supporting and continuing to build an economically vibrant and inclusive city. Before this role, I was the Director of Membership Development, Events & Partnerships at Clayton Members Club. I also own a small online magazine, Cherry Creek Fashion. My work in all of these spaces revolves around creating community and a sense of belonging for everyone. My personal time is spent with my six-year-old son and my friends in Cherry Creek where I live, Downtown Denver or RINO. There is so much to do all over this wonderful city, so I am never at a loss for interesting experiences.

How long have you been in the Denver area and where are you from originally?

I moved to Denver eight years ago and I love it! This is home now, and I plan to stay for the long run and raise my son here. This is one of the best cities for families and for business. The arts and culture scene is also incredible. I am originally from Saint Lucia in the Caribbean and have lived in a few other cities including London and New York.

Any charitable organizations you’re involved in?

I serve on the board of three non-profits including Cherry Arts, Biennial of The Americas and Cherry Creek Chamber. I also support the Denver Art Museum through their Associate Program and was on the committee for the last Rev the Runway, supporting National Jewish Health. Being involved in the Denver community and supporting wonderful organizations doing great work is very important to me.

Who was your earliest style influence?

My mom Jacintha. I remember watching her getting ready, doing her make-up and choosing outfits when I was a little girl. She is a beautiful woman with an equally beautiful soul, so I learnt alot from her about personal style.

Describe your personal style?

I love a lot of classic pieces but add a rocker chic London vibe to all of my outfits. I call it classic rocker chic! I love good, structured tailoring in beautiful fabrics that stand the test of time.

Current style icons?

My number one style icon also happens to be one of my best friends! Koya Nyangi (@letmeshowyoudifferent) embraces her authentic individual style and teaches us all to do the same by bring so much enthusiasm and self-love to dressing up.

Where do you like to shop, both locally and online?

I love shopping in person locally. I rarely ever shop online, I usually reserve that for basic pieces that need replacing. I love the experience of walking through stores, talking to stylists and feeling fabrics. My favorite shops are a mix of classic lines and local designers. I love the St. John Boutique in Cherry Creek North, A Line Boutique, Artizia in Cherry Creek Shopping Center, and Rags Consignment for second hand and vintage pieces. I also wear a couple of local designers including C.R.Lee and The Oula Company. Tennyson Street and RINO are also great for shopping. The only online store I frequent, because they are no longer available locally, is AYR.

custom clothier + family man + outdoorsman

Chat with us about your background. What do you do professionally and how do you enjoy spending time personally?

Professionally, I am the director of sales for Balani Custom; we’re a high-end men’s custom clothier, headquartered in Chicago and in business since 1961. We produce everything from formal wear to casual looks and have a showroom right here in Cherry Creek North. Personally, I am a family man, an avid outdoorsman, and a lover of a good steak and peaty scotch.

How long have you been in the Denver area and where are you from originally?

I am one of those rare Colorado natives - born and raised here.

Any charitable organizations you’re involved in? Our company participates in a number of charitable initiatives nationwide. We like to thoughtfully support local organizations that do great work in the community, such as Denver Children’s Foundation.

Who was your earliest style influence?

As far back as I can remember, I was particular about my style, though I don’t know that I’ve ever really had a specific influence per se. I’ve always appreciated classic, put-together looks, and good taste.

Describe your personal style?

Whether it’s dressy or casual, I always like to feel put together. I appreciate small details - the shoes, the belt, the tie… For a formal look, I love the feel of a three-piece suit with peak lapels - nothing beats that for a dressy occasion. On a casual day, I’ll pair a comfortable cotton tee with a pair of Paige jeans and Magnani sneakers.

Current style icons?

David Beckham

Daniel Craig

Christiano Ronaldo

Where do you like to shop, both locally and online?

I’m fortunate to work for a company that offers both formal and casual wear, so I don’t have to go far for my clothing needs. One of my current favorite staples is Paige denim - soft, stretchy, and super comfortable jeans that are versatile enough to be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

Favorite Cherry Creek haunts?

Hillstone, Toro, Sol and Cherry Creek Grill

Finish the sentence, “To me, style is…”

..an expression of oneself, and it’s important to run with it and be your own person.

Best dressed celebrities past and present?

David Beckham

Ryan Gosling

Tom Ford

Daniel Craig

Marlon Brando

James Dean

George Clooney

Sean Connery

identical twins + interior designers + mothers

Chat with us about your backgrounds. What do you do professionally and how do you enjoy spending time personally?

CB: I spearhead commercial interior design for hospitals and medical facilities. Creating spaces that are not only functional but also beautiful and comforting to the patients and families that find themselves there is extremely rewarding. I spend my personal time being a “soccer mom” to two fantastic sons, ages 10 and 13. I also enjoy cycling year-round.

CS: I am a commercial Interior Design Principal at Davis Partnership Architects. I love being in a creative field and leading a studio of 25 designers. Being able to convey a sense of style in my profession is important in the impact that a sense of fashion can convey to clients and potential clients.

How long have you been in the Denver area and where are you from originally?

CB: Cynthia and I were born in Steamboat Springs and raised in Glenwood Springs. We are both CSU grads, who spent short but lively stints in San Francisco. Cynthia also spent time in Boston, but Colorado has always been where our hearts thrive.

How has being a twin influenced each of your personal style?

CB: Being a twin is having a built-in best friend, but it also comes with constant comparison. We learned early on that trying to be exactly the same only brought on scrutiny. We have each developed our own style along the way. Cynthia is more adventurous in her styling with spunk and awe. I’m more subdued and timeless. The best thing is that we are constantly raiding each other’s closets. Always having twice the wardrobe has been a game changer. Cynthia and I both joke that once borrowed, never returned.

CS: I think it forced us early on to have our own style. My style has always been a bit more masculine and clean-lined, whereas Carrie’s is always a bit more classically feminine.

Any charitable organizations you’re involved in?

CS: I was blessed eight years ago to have a sweet little girl who we named Lydia; she was born with a very rare genetic disorder that affected her cellular metabolism. It presented first when she was born with pure white hair (she looked like an angel). Because of this rare disease we were “frequent flyers” at Children’s Hospital Colorado. We saw almost every specialist there. The incredible care and attention we were given made my husband Scooter and I want to give back. Over the last seven years we have helped raise over $300,000 for Children’s Hospital. Lydia’s daily fight to survive became too hard this past January and we lost our sweet girl, but we will always be a fundraising team for Children’s Hospital for the love and support we were given while in their care. Her spirit is with us always and is often seen at unexpected times in the form of a butterfly.

CB: The Children’s Hospital of Colorado Foundation will forever be my favorite charitable organization, in honor of my sweet niece, Lydia. This past year, I was nominated as the Woman of the Year by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. I raised almost $110K in only ten weeks. I received the Mission Integration Award and was able to designate the funds towards cancer patients seeking financial support. I am also on the board of the Denver Architecture Foundation.

Favorite “twin fashion” memory?

CB: Rocking our beautiful magenta “Lydia” cycling jerseys for the Courage Classic bicycle race every year.

CS: Senior Prom. We dressed the same in a white fitted one shoulder dress with a cutout at the side. Very 90’s glam.

Who was your earliest style influence?

CB: It was a tragic hair influence when I was eight. I brought a magazine clipping of Pat Benatar into the salon, and I rocked a mullet for a year until my hair grew back. A very early lesson in not going with trends.

CS: Seventeen Magazine!

Describe your personal style.

CB: Classic with a little bit of edge. I don’t let trends dictate my style, I let in what works for me. I prefer tailored pieces that can travel well. I have mastered two-week international travel with only a carry-on!

CS: Modern, architectural, clean lined and substantive.

Current style icons?

CS: Zendaya – her aesthetic is very clean, modern, and non-fussy, it has a level of structure that is both timeless and on trend.

Where do you like to shop, both locally and online?

CS: Online, I love The REAL REAL. I am a sucker for a good deal on second-hand pieces. Zara for trendy items. Locally I love MAX on Columbine and my favorite for gifts is also The Artisan Center.

Favorite Cherry Creek haunts?

CB: Satchels on 6th is so cozy and inviting! It exudes the perfect neighborhood vibe. Barolo Grill is the best in Denver. Ryan Fletter always delivers an exceptional experience.

Finish the sentence. To me, style is…

CB: Knowing yourself and expressing it outwardly through your personal effects.

CS: A daily expression of your personal vibe.

Best dressed celebrities past and present?

CB: Audrey Hepburn (can we please bring back hats and gloves?) and Victoria Beckham

CS: Amal Clooney and Audrey Hepburn

From CEOs to soccer moms, and entrepreneurs to executive directors, these Coloradoans are always dressed to impress. Yet their style is about so much more than fashion. At its very core it is about grace, strength, and spirit. Meet our 2022 Denver’s Best Dressed Nominees.

Allie Marchese

Amy Borman

Brandis Becky Pelletier

Brittany Pillard Dietzler

Brook Griese

Carolina Hellal

Carrie Bradley

Charles Goldstein

Conor Hall

Courtney Olson

Craig Andrisen

Crystal Lee

Cynthia Steinbrecher

Delroy Gill

Denise Snyder

Erika Massaquoi

Esther Lee Leach

Florence Muller

Isaac Stroope

Jeff Hendley

Jennifer Marsico Lapham

Josh Majchrzak

Koya Nyangi

Michelle DeHaven

Molly Keech

Quinn Washington

Robb Brown

Samatha Joseph

Sameer Bawa

Sergio Dior Garcia

Stefanie Jones

Sylvia Atencio

Timothy Rollins

Tobias Jenkins

Tre Tallman

Yaneev Benami

Snowmass Picnic by Slim Aarons, 1967.

In 1967, Holiday magazine hosted a mountaintop fondue picnic for skiers at the newly opened Snowmassat-Aspen Resort, with the helicopter being used to bring up hot food. The guest list included Howard Head of the Head Ski Company, president of IBM Thomas Watson Jr. and his wife Olive (nee Cawley), Norwegian Olympic skier Stein Eriksen, and American restaurateur Armando Orsini.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images.