Social Life DECEMBER 2021
JOHN KING JAMES C. METZGER
WHERE POWER MEETS LUXURY. BMWUSA.com Competition Package Shown. ©2021 BMW of North America, LLC. The BMW name, model names and logo are registered trademarks.
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LUXURY ESTATES
THE MOST SPECTACULAR NEW AMENITY DRIVEN HAMPTONS LUXURY ESTATE IN SOUTHAMPTON Situated behind a gated entry, this 2-acre Southampton property boasts ocean views, landscaped gardens complete with open lawn, pergolas and water features, fire features, tennis court with covered viewing area and an outdoor entertaining suite including a pool, spa, outdoor kitchen and outdoor fireplace as well as a separate pool house. The property also features a glass viewing window into the pool from a hidden outdoor lounge patio complete with firepit. The 16,000 square foot shingle-style home was also designed to support a modern way of life. Design elements include open living spaces, a double height Great Room with full bar, elevator and countless other features. The over- sized kitchen offers a sitting area. Incredible finishes, fixtures, materials and architectural details. In-home features include 9 bedrooms, 11 full baths and 3 powder rooms boasting waterworks fixtures, 4 interior fireplaces and 2 exterior. The enviable master suite comprised of a large bedroom with a fireplace, separate sitting room, dressing room, additional closets, his/her designed bathroom and two private terraces. There are two additional master bedrooms to choose from, with one located on the main level, offering flexible use spaces throughout. WebID 1953074 WebID 1892634 $35,000,000 PEGGY ZABAKOLAS ESQ 646-681-8804 peggyz@nestseekers.com SHAWN ELLIOTT 516-695-6349 shawnelliott@nestseekers.com All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and has been compiled from sources deemed reliable. Though information is believed to be correct, it is presented subject to errors, omissions, changes or withdrawal without notice. © 2021 Nest Seekers International. All rights reserved. Licensed Real Estate Broker NY, NJ, FL, CA, CT. Nest Seekers International fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.
QUIET MURRAY COMPOUND, NEW CONSTRUCTION This brand new +/- 8,500 sqft estate is anticipated to be finished by the end of July 2021. Roughly 1,000 ft from the ocean with private deeded access, this property presents 7 bedrooms, 9.5 bathrooms, double height ceilings, a movie theater, gym, heated gunite inground pool, and pool house. $19,995,000 WebID 1962037
JAMES GIUGLIANO 631-456-3567 jamesg@nestseekers.com
TIMELESS NEW CONSTRUCTION IN SOUTHAMPTON VILLAGE Situated on just shy of 2 acres, 51 Pheasant has over 12,000 +/square feet including 8 bedrooms, 12 full baths, and 4 powder rooms. The spacious chef’s kitchen is fitted with custom built cabinetry and showcases high-end appliances, Silestone countertops, andan amazing waterfall center island. This opens up to a dining area and an additional seating area next to a wood burning fireplace. In the back yard, there is a full-size, heated Gunite pool and spa, a pool house cabana which has a 10 foot wide fireplace, wet bar and changing room, and a sunken tennis court. WebID 1736529 $19,995,000 J.B. ANDREASSI 631-875-6323 jbandreassi@nestseekers.com JASON BARNETT 631-974-4012 JasonBa@nestseekers.com
GRAND ESTATE SAGAPONACK VILLAGE Completion due fall of 2021 this stunning home will have it all. Sited on over 2 fully cleared acres with 8500 sq ft home, pool and all weather tennis. Every designer detail and modern finishes with exceptional quality throughout that you would expect in a SHOJI built home. 7 bedrooms with both lower and second floor master suites, large open spaces with fully finished lower level with Media room. Gym, and recreation spaces. Still time to customize. WebID 1070783 $6,250,000 GEOFF GIFKINS 516-429-6927 geoffg@nestseekers.com JACK RYAN RICHARDSON 631-278-9549 jackr@nestseekers.com
nestseekers.com THE HAMPTONS
GOLD COAST, LI
NEW YORK CITY
NEW JERSEY
GREENWICH
MIAMI
PALM BEACH
BEVERLY HILLS
LONDON
PORTUGAL ASIA
Private Island ~ All-Inclusive Luxury ~ Private Airport Private Private Island Island ~ ~ All-Inclusive All-InclusiveLuxury Luxury~~Private PrivateAirport Airport Private Island ~ All-Inclusive Luxury ~ Private Airport Reserved exclusively for a select few, Ambergris Cay entices with a serene, natural beauty, from the endless turquoise
Reserved exclusively for aa select few, Ambergris Cay entices a serene, natural from turquoise exclusively forBanks select Ambergris Caystunning enticeswith with serene, naturalbeauty, beauty,unobstructed fromthe theendless endless turquoise blue waters of the Caicos tofew, starry nights with viewsa of the constellations, by the glare of Reserved exclusively for a select few, Ambergris Cay entices with a serene, natural beauty, from the endless turquoise blue waters of the Caicos Banks to starry nights with stunning views of the constellations, unobstructed by the of the Caicos Banks to starry nights with stunning views of the constellations, unobstructed by theglare glareofof civilization. blue waters of the Caicos Banks to starry nights with stunning views of the constellations, unobstructed by the glare of civilization. civilization. Whether you seek a private, peaceful retreat to unwind and disconnect or prefer to stay active with water sports, fishing Whether you seek seek aa private, private, peaceful peaceful retreat retreatto tounwind unwindand anddisconnect disconnector orprefer prefertotostay stayactive activewith withwater watersports, sports,fishing fishing or or nature walks, our attentive team will pamper you with bespoke service, all-inclusive gourmet meals and premium bevWhether you seek a private, peaceful retreat to unwind and disconnect or prefer to stay active with water sports, fishing nature walks, our attentive team will pamper you with bespoke service, all-inclusive gourmet meals and premium walks, our attentive team will pamper you with bespoke service, all-inclusive gourmet meals and premiumbevbeverages, spa treatments, catered lunch on a nearby deserted island and more to ensure an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind, or nature walks, our attentive team willon pamper youdeserted with bespoke service, all-inclusive gourmet meals andone-of-a-kind, premium beverages, spa treatments, catered lunch aanearby island and to an treatments, catered lunch on nearby deserted island andmore more toensure ensure anunforgettable, unforgettable, one-of-a-kind, private island experience. erages, island spa treatments, catered lunch on a nearby deserted island and more to ensure an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind, private experience. island experience. private island experience.
For ownership opportunities, contact us at realestate@ambergriscay.com For ownership opportunities, For ownership opportunities,contact contactus usat atrealestate@ambergriscay.com realestate@ambergriscay.com For ownership opportunities, contact us at realestate@ambergriscay.com
Private International Airport ~ 5,700 ft. Runway Private International Airport ~~ 5,700 ft. Runway Private International Airport 5,700 ft. Runway Customs & Immigration Clearance Available Private International Airport ~ 5,700 ft. Runway Customs && Immigration Clearance Available Customs Immigration Clearance Available Customs & Immigration Clearance Available Your all-inclusive Turks and Caicos private island experience at Ambergris Cay means 24-hour en-suite dining, five star
Your all-inclusive Turks and Caicos private island experience at Ambergris Cay means 24-hour en-suite dining, fivefive starstar Your all-inclusive Turks and Caicos private island experience Ambergris Cay means 24-hour en-suite dining, culinary experiences, boating excursions, nightly turndownatservice, a personal golf cart to explore the island, snorkeling Your all-inclusive Turks and Caicos private island experience at Ambergris Cay means 24-hour en-suite dining, five star culinary experiences, boating excursions, nightly turndown service, a personal golf cart to explore the island, snorkeling culinary experiences, excursions, nightly turndown a personal cart sailing, to explore the island, snorkeling excursions, kids clubboating house activities, guided nature tours,service, bone-fishing, reefgolf fishing, kayaking and paddle boarding. culinary experiences, boating excursions, nightly turndown service, a personal golf cart to explore the and island, snorkeling excursions, kids club house activities, guided nature tours, bone-fishing, reef fishing, sailing, kayaking paddle boarding. excursions, kids club house activities, guided nature tours, bone-fishing, reef fishing, sailing, kayaking and paddle boarding. Select from 1-bedroom beach front suites or 3- and 4-bedroom villas with sweeping ocean views. excursions, kids club house activities, guided nature tours, bone-fishing, reef fishing,ocean sailing, kayaking Select 1-bedroom beach front suites oror 3and 4-bedroom villas with sweeping views. Selectfrom from 1-bedroom beach front suites 3and 4-bedroom villas with sweeping ocean views. and paddle boarding. Select from 1-bedroom beach front suites or 3- and 4-bedroom villas with sweeping ocean views. Discreet yet accessible, Ambergris Cay boasts the longest runway of private any private international airport inCaribbean the Caribbean Discreet Ambergris Cay boasts the longest runway of of any international airport in the at at at Discreetyet yetaccessible, accessible, Ambergris Cay boasts the longest runway any private international airport in the Caribbean 5,700 ft in length (for comparison, East Hampton Airport’s longest runway is only 4,255 ft. in length). Flying time isthan less than Discreet accessible, AmbergrisEast Cay boasts theAirport’s longest runway of runway any private international the Caribbean at 5,700 (for comparison, Hampton longest runway is only 4,255 ft. ft. in length). Flying time is less 5,700ft ftinyet inlength length (for comparison, East Hampton Airport’s longest is only 4,255 inairport length).in Flying time is less than 3 hours from most East Coast gateways and less than 1.5 hours from Miami or Palm Customs and Immigration and 5,700 ft in length (for comparison, East Hampton Airport’s longest runway isor only 4,255 ft.Beach. inCustoms length). Flying time is lessand than 3 from most East Coast gateways and less than 1.51.5 hours from Miami Palm Beach. and Immigration 3hours hours from most East Coast gateways and less than hours from Miami or Palm Beach. Customs and Immigration and Covid-19 testing services available for a safe and seamless getaway. 3 Covid-19 hours from mostservices East Coast gateways less than 1.5 hours from Miami or Palm Beach. Customs and Immigration and Covid-19 testing available forfor a and safe and seamless getaway. testing services available a safe and seamless getaway. Covid-19 testing services available for a safe and seamless getaway.
WWW.AMBERGRISCAY.COM WWW.AMBERGRISCAY.COM WWW.AMBERGRISCAY.COM WWW.AMBERGRISCAY.COM
new york - madison avenue
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Finest Luxury Villa Collection Turks and Caicos Islands, BWI
Superior Private Residences | World Class Service 24HR Concierge | Private Butler | Private Chef Families | Honeymoon | Romantic Getaway | Special Occasions
The Source is your destination for luxury living in the Turks & Caicos Islands. The Source combines the superior level of luxury, service and amenities found at the worlds’ premier hotels with the privacy and creature comforts of an upscale personal residence. An intimate 1-bedroom villa to an expansive 11-bedroom estate, on the world’s number one beach, are the most exclusive villas overlooking miles of white sand beaches & crystal clear turquoise water. We can create your magical vacation in the privacy of your home.
www.thesource.tc | reservations@thesource.tc | 1.888.413.3808
Social Life Publisher JUSTIN MITCHELL Editor-in-Chief DEVORAH ROSE Managing Editor
BARI TRONTZ
FEATURES
Advertising and Senior Editor Christine Montanti Wine and Spirits Editor Sharon Roth Travel Editor R. Couri Hay Charity Editor MJ Pedone Mom Editor Lyss Stern Home and Design Editor Sarah Parker Young Local Hamptons Editor Karen Berliner Executive Editor Anthony Giampetruzzi Men’s Fasion Editor MJ Pedone Editor Suzanne Delay Features Editor Inna DeSilva Social Editor Jean Shafiroff Social Editor Rachel Heller Social Editor Chanel Korby International Editor Norah Bradford
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS AND WRITERS Jordyn Axelrod, Blaire Bass, Ray Colon, Cecilia Dawn, Alyssa Goldman, Frances Gormley, Teresa Fisher, Fallon Harrington, Rose Hartman, Cristina Hilsenrath, Helaina Hovitz, Alex Lerner, Jennifer Liedke, Bennett Marcus, Amanda McElroy, Monica Navia, Isaiah Negron, Krista Norris, Patrick Shannon, Mike Virgintino
ART Art Editor
Mago
FASHION / BEAUTY
Fashion Editor Gregory DelliCarpini Jr. Beauty Director Jeanette M. Zinno Jewelry Editor Jonathan Valdez
WELLNESS
Wellness Writer L.A. Dawson Wellness Writer Stacey Griffith Wellness Writer Kristy Rao Wellness Writer Liana Werner-Gray
CORPORATE Creative Director M arsin M ogielski Senior Executive Melissa Mitchell-Boyd Advertising Sales Director Robyn Michele Executive Manager Jennifer Lesser New Business Developer Cass Almendral Luxury Director Robert Pace
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PHOTOGRAPHERS Patrick McMullan, Rob Rich, Laura Mircik-Sellers, Vital Agibalow, Joe Corrigan, Don Fitzgibbon, Harry Heuts, Robert Linton, M arsin Mogielski, Mike Ruiz, Gail Tobias
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HOW DO YOU LIKE YOUR LUXURY?
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PUBLISHER’S LETTER
By popular demand, welcome to our Manhattan issue. We are best known for our Hamptons issues in the summer, but wanted to publish several additional issues in Manhattan to please our loyal readers. As we enter 2022, I can’t help but think ahead to warmer weather and long summer days on the beach in the Hamptons. Have a great winter!
Justin Mitchell
Social Life
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Devorah Rose, Nomi Ellenson Photography
“When it comes to life the critical thing is whether you take things for granted or take them with gratitude.” G.K. Chesterton What is the most important part about gratitude? Perhaps it’s the ability to change your life for the better. When we list all we are grateful for we see the glass as half full not half empty, as the old adage goes. But what that means is we start seeing the world as a place of potential and growth. If one moves through the world as if everything is a miracle, how much more full life would be. And isn’t it all a miracle? How strange and improbable is life here on Earth or a beautiful sunset . . . and yet we take it all for granted. Now is the time to truly value the everyday as well as the life around you. This is a season of giving and miracles. Try moving through the world with this in mind and see what kind of magic you experience. Wishing everyone many blessings,
Devorah Rose
Social Life
GOLD MEDAL AWARD WINNING PROSECCO BY CHRISTIE BRINKLEY
ALWAYS VEGAN. ALWAYS ORGANICALLY GROWN.
bellissimaprosecco.com PREMIUM WINE WITH A PREMIUM TASTE MADE FOR BIG MOMENTS, LITTLE MOMENTS, AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN. THIS IS BELLISSIMA PROSECCO.
Christine Montanti, Photography by Don Fitzgibbon
LETTER FROM THE SENIOR EDITOR
There’s something extraordinary that happens in NYC during the winter holiday season; the cold weather along with the holiday spirit sends an electrifying energy to the already bustling neighborhood streets. When the end of the year is upon us, magically, the world’s greatest city transforms itself into a winter wonderland filled with holiday lights, decorations and festive attractions. My personal and most treasured memories have been spent enjoying NYC’s holiday inspired activities. There are endless ways to relish this enchanting season from admiring Central Park’s stunning winter beauty while strolling on its winding paths, to viewing the tree-lighting ceremony and ice skating at Rockefeller Center. The Big Apple experience is always joyfully stimulating. Whether you are uptown or downtown, the holiday attractions are limitless. With seasonal shows such as The Christmas Spectacular featuring the Radio City Rockettes or the New York City Ballet’s, The Nutcracker, you will be delightfully entertained. For holiday sightseeing, be sure to check out the fabulous light festival on Randall’s Island or simply window shop along 5th Avenue to catch a glimpse of the many incredible window displays. Holiday gifts can be purchased at various stores and Christmas boutiques including the amazing Columbus Circle and Union Square Holiday Markets, so after a festive day of shopping or events, why not grab a bite to eat at one of the city’s finest restaurants decked out for the holidays. From the NoMad, which is known for its remarkable Norway Spruce Christmas tree to The Tavern on the Green located in the heart of Central Park, the decorations in these restaurants are certain to provide a festive dining ambiance. Whatever activities or entertainment you decide to enjoy during this holiday season, the magical island of Manhattan offers an extraordinary experience! Wishing you a wonderful holiday season,
Christine Montanti
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The Fields Southampton
Bruce Bronster. Peter Cook AIA
THE NEW STANDARD IN LUXURY STONE DESIGNASSISTANCE ASSISTANCE .. UNPARALLELED QUALITY . DIRECT DESIGN UNPARALLED QUALITY DIRECTIMPORTER IMPORTER MARBLE . QUARTZITE . QUARTZ . GRANITE . PORCELAIN “We needed 26 slabs to finish the master bath at a very expensive waterfront home in Southampton. Fame went to Italy to source what we were looking for. When the slabs arrived, they were better than the photos. Magnifico!” — G BRUCE LIFTON, LIFTON GREEN “Fame Luxury Stone supplied us with stunning stone slabs for a luxury residence we recently completed in the Hamptons. From beginning to end, Fame and her team provided an excellent level of service and sourced the highest quality of stone. We look forward to working with her again on our upcoming projects.” — KYLE STOKKERS, STOKKERS & COMPANY
Lifton Green/JBialsky. David Scott Interiors
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY 631.237.1113 | FAMELUXURYSTONE.COM | INFO@FAMELUXURYSTONE.COM 103 HAYGROUND ROAD, BUILDING 2, WATER MILL NY
WA T C H E S By Jonathan Valdez
We all need extra merriment and cheer this time of year. Don’t be afraid to go bold this season by making sure your watch stands out in the crowd.
PIAGET 18k White Gold with Diamonds and Alligator Strap $34,300 Piaget 611 Fifth Avenue 212.753.4000
BULGARI 18k Yellow Gold with Diamonds and Alligator Strap $41,900 Bulgari 730 Fifth Avenue 212.315.9000
CHOPARD 18k White Gold with Emeralds and Diamonds Chopard Price Upon Request 709 Madison Avenue 212.223.2304
HARRY WINSTON 18k Rose Gold with Leather Strap $37,400 Harry Winston 701 Fifth Avenue 212.399.1000
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428 Jericho Turnpike, Syosset, NY 11791 hello@airem.com 516-614-1880 www.airem.com @airembeautyrituals
J E W E L RY By Jonathan Valdez
A new season means tons of parties. This year people are dressing up more than ever before, so make sure you stun with dazzling pieces.
BULGARI 18k Rose Gold with Diamonds, Malachite, and Sapphires $19,300 Bulgari 730 Fifth Avenue 212.315.9000
ROBERTO COIN 18k Yellow and Rose Gold with Diamonds $3,950 Roberto Coin 579 Fifth Avenue 212.486.4545
BUCCELLATI 18k Yellow and White Gold with Diamonds $76,000 London Jewelers 185 Greenwich Street 212.381.9455
DAVID WEBB 18k Yellow Gold and Platinum with Diamonds $23,000 David Webb 824 Madison Avenue 212.421.3030 Social Life
SHOPPING By Gregory DelliCarpini Jr.
These shops offer an array of items for any occasion. Whether it ’s a walk in the city or an evening painting Manhattan red, these shops know how to cater to your needs.
PRADA A true institution in NYC, Prada also has a shop in SoHo. This gorgeous shop has the Italian label’s accessories and items hot off the runway. This elegant spot is where the New York’s worlds to chic fashion and gorgeous architecture merge. 575 Broadway
GUCCI What’s better than shopping for Gucci? Perhaps only shopping for Gucci in Downtown NYC. Gucci is the perfect place to get the very best that this fantastic brand has to offer. This shop has everything from Italiancrafted leather goods to apparel and accessories for men and women. 63 Wooster Street
ALLBIRDS Allbirds is quickly becoming the hottest sustainable sneaker on the market. The brand recently opened a new shop Uptown, where you can browse all of their shoes made from natural, sustainably sourced, and recycled materials. Shop all of their signature sneakers from the Tree Runner to Wool Pipers. These kicks are both comfortable and extremely cool. 201 Columbus Avenue
ERIKA AUSTIN INC. Shop Erika Austin Inc. online where you’ll find ‘Modern Luxury Heightening the Art of Personal Care.’ Discover signature fragrances, lifestyle and jewelry pieces that are classic, sophisticated yet sexy for everyone on your holiday list. A portion of the proceeds goes directly to One Society Foundation, benefitting luxury artisans in underserved communities around the world. erikaaustininc.com
Social Life
SHOPPING
JEWELRY BY DESIGN By Tom Massey We sat down with Sara to find out a little more about her. Now that the summer has ended and you’re back from the Hamptons, how have you been spending your time? I have been fully immersed in creating my new collection, starting to travel more now that things have opened up again, playing tennis, and hiking.
S
ara Shala is an internationally renowned jewelry designer, whose innovative approach combines classic sensibility with high-tech production. She produces both ready-made and custom pieces. Her designs have been featured in mainstream publications like Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Cosmopolitan, Essence, and Nasdaq, among others. Prominent arts and entertainment figures wear her distinctive line of jewelry. Sara uses only conflct-free and cultivated gems in her jewelry, and a range of fine metals from sterling to plated to fine gold to platinum. Her success is a powerful reminder that dreams come true, and our victories only matter if we share them with others. Sara has donated to and raised funds for global causes such as Make-A-Wish, Doctors Without Borders, UN Women, St. Jude’s, and organizations concerned with mental health. SocialLifeMagazine.com
As we head into the holiday season, what is it about this time of year in NYC that you enjoy most? Are there any must-visit places for you? I love the fall colors in Central Park, I enjoy opera, and I’m very happy that the Metropolitan’s programs are back. I love going to museums and galleries. I suggest the retrospectives of Alexander Calder at MoMa and Jasper Johns at the Whitney. As a designer living in one of the most eclectic and inspiring cities, where do you find inspiration? In nature and architecture. I love walking around town and just studying the buildings of NYC. I believe that architecture affects our well-being, and good architecture shapes us and plays a big role in our happiness. My goal is to have my collections inspire the same feelings for others. Sara Shala New York sarashala.com @sarashalanyc
R U N WAY By Gregory DelliCarpini Jr.
Tailor Made Button up and add a bit of sophisticated edge to your wardrobe this season. Smart tailored looks for colder weather have hit the runway. Designers from Gucci and Valentino to Prada and The Row have turned out endlessly fitted and flattering numbers perfect for a lunch meeting or an evening out.
Prada
Gucci
Valentino
The Row
Social Life
ACCESSORIES By Gregory DelliCarpini Jr.
Heart It! Hearts are beating on runways all over the world. Heart-shaped patterns on dresses, jewelry, and bags are all the rage this season. Designers from Gucci and Versace to Saint Laurent and Valentino have embraced this cheeky and cute trend for fall and winter. Rock a pink or red dress with matching heart-shaped earrings for a sweet take on the look. For a rock ‘n’ roll and edgy take on the trend, go for a glittering Gucci suit with a matching heart bag and choker necklace.
D’heygere Pink Heart Earrings, $590
Gucci Silver & Red Interlocking G Heart Bracelet, $320
Gucci, Fall/Winter 2021/2022
Versace Jeans Couture Pink Heart Logo Lock Bag, $250 Social Life
SHOPPING
H O L I DAY H O T LY S S T By Lyss Stern
What’s hot? What’s in? What’s #fabuLYSS ? Lyss Stern, a NYC best-selling author and the founder of Divamoms.com is at the forefront of style, trends, and the must-have nows. Lyss gives moms and expectant moms the scoop on Instagram @ diva_moms
FOR #DIVAMOMS DIVAMOMS NEED SLEEP The Allswell reversible pillow allows you to flip from comfy down-alternative to supportive memory foam. The cool memory-foam side with a meshcool-touch cover adapts to your unique shape and maintains an optimal temperature. Flip to the plush side for cloud-like comfort. The entire pillow’s surface is antimicrobial-treated, helping to keep your pillow fresher longer. $48, allwellhome.com DIVAMOMS DREAM KIT Explore CharlotteTilbury’s world of magic makeup and skincare innovations and discover a beauty secret in every drawer! This limited-edition 12-piece Advent calendar includes nine travel-size and 3 fullsize items that range from lotions, creams, serums, lashes, eye and lip pencils, lip colors, and a setting spray. $200, charlottetilbury.com FABULYSS HOLIDAY NAILS Shining bright like a festive fairy light, Nails.INC’s mesmerizing nail topper is swirling with flecks of light-catching glitter. Bring it to life like a snow globe with a touch. Now that’s merry and bright! $15, sephora.com
FESTIVE HANDS & FEET When it’s cold outside, stay in and chill with Nails.INC’s moisturizing hand and feet masks! Wave off the effects of winter weather and bring back smooth and super-soft skin. Enriched with Vitamin E, cocoa butter, and coconut extract, this set has the perfect amount of TLC for dry and tired hands and feet. $10, sephora.com FABULYSS LIPS LANO 101 Ointment Fruities Trio gives you one each for your handbag, bedside, and desk. The original 101 Ointment is infused it with vitamin E and natural fruit extracts. They call it a little tube of magic for extremely dry and chapped lips, skin patches, cuticles, and elbows. $32, amazon.com I SMELL GINGERBREAD Spice up the festive season with Nails.INC’s polishes. The seasonal shades have a sweet gingerbread scent, like your fave holiday bakes. Find sugar spice, and all things nice in your manicure. Includes four shades: Pudding Lane (off-white), Bread Street (soft nude), Honey Lane (light bronze nude), Nutmeg Lane (spiced terracotta). $22, sephora.com Social Life
SHOPPING
SNOW GLOBE BLEND & BRUSH SET e.l.f. Cosmetics has your makeup tool essentials in one festive and frosty gift set. This limited-edition kit includes a range of six musthave brushes and sponges for seamlessly applying, buffing, and blending out your face and eye looks. Holiday party perfection achieved. $15, elfcosmetics.com and target.com FABULYSS FUN HAIR During the holidays and every day, a few twists with Scünci are all it takes to tame your tresses and keep your look on-trend with these six versatile scrunchies in assorted colors. Available in silver metallic, mauve metallic, silver satin, lavender satin, black velvet, and beige satin. $10, scunci.com
FOR DIVA KIDS
AMERICAN GIRL CULTURAL CELEBRATION OUTFITS American Girl has a new capsule collection of six cultural celebration outfits representing Lunar New Year, Eid al-Fitr, Diwali, Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa. The outfits are rich with realistic details and made with high-quality fabrics and unique design elements, such as gold embroidery, brocade, and rhinestone embellishments, to enhance their significance and authenticity. $36 to $41, americangirl.com
FABULYSS TEAS FOR YOUR FACE Florence by Mills Best-Teas includes all the BFFs your skin needs to cleanse, tone, and hydrate with Clean Magic Face Wash, Spotlight Toner Series: Episode 1 Brighten Up, Dreamy Dew Facial Moisturizer, and a pair of limited-edition bow-shaped eye gel pads that keep your eyes feeling extra moisturized and cute. 30, florencebymills.com and ulta.com FABULYSS HOLIDAY BROWS Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Bae-sics Deluxe Kit delivers double the award-winning Brow Wiz and Mini Clear gel. Brow Wiz is an award-winning ultra-slim, retractable eyebrow pencil ideal for adding hairlike detail to brows with precision. The lightweight gel sets brow color and holds brow hairs in place for a clean, polished look. $33, sephora.com
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AMERICAN GIRL COFFEE SHOP This doll-sized barista set with over 60 items has many perks: enough room for two dolls; a built-in sink, fridge, shelving, storage; soap and towel dispenser; bubble skylight; a backside counter that fits two real metal stools. Also included is a checkout counter, clear bakery case, a menu board, and pretend espresso machine that makes sounds: bean grinding, brewing, frothing, and has a pretend steam function. Other items include a credit card swiper and video monitor, plus dishware, pretend food and beverages, and much more. $280, americangirl.com
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
GRATITUDE By Lyss Stern
Holidays to me are all about spending quality time OTG (off the grid) like we do at our very popular camp retreats for moms. I am personally truly giving gratitude for my own and my family’s health this holiday season. And with the holidays approaching, it’s so easy to get wrapped up in a few days of thanks. But why only a few days. The gratitude that puts smiles on our faces so often becomes ancient history in five minutes or ten or maybe in an hour. Maybe it even lasts a day, but it usually doesn’t persist. It’s surface. It’s made up for holiday table talk. But I know there is more. There is more than just holiday conversation. There is more to be grateful for. For some, it’s the sound of their baby crying every morning at 5 a.m. because it took years to conceive. No early morning baby wails will ever take away the joy of having created a son or daughter. For others, it’s the rev of a car’s engine, because it’s proof that they built their businesses and made enough money to buy the car of their dreams. And yet for others, it’s simply the sound of a fork scraping the bottom of a bowl, as it is the sound of having been able to provide food for a family. What these past 18 months have taught me . . . and hopefully all of us . . . is that gratitude is not something that is solely for the holidays. That’s why gratitude journals and books about doses of appreciation can be found everywhere, from gas station checkout counters to the shelves of Bed Bath & Beyond. That’s why therapists and health gurus are touting to their clients that what will make them happiest in life is to look within and find what it is that they are most grateful for. And that’s why we created a space for moms to step away for a weekend, take a break, take a breath, and look inward. That’s why our upcoming Diva Moms getaways are far more important than fighting the crowds at Whole Foods and
sifting through food blogs to find the perfect apple pie recipe. That is all fleeting. What you’ll gain from our OTG weekends is everlasting. Join us and our crew and take a weekend for you. Gratitude makes a difference. But it’s more than a holiday table go-around. Make it a part of your daily life. Find gratitude. Share gratitude! u Follow Lyss on Instagram @diva_moms Social Life
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DR. MICHELLE ZWEIFLER, MD BOARD CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON
800-A FIFTH AVENUE DRMICHELLEZWEIFLER.COM 212.355.0500
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NOW IS THE TIME TO GET THE LOOK YOU HAVE ALWAYS WANTED WITH AWARD-WINNING CELEBRITY PLASTIC SURGEON
STEPHEN T. GREENBERG, M.D., F.A.C.S. By Laura Rothchild
W
inter is the best time of year to have the cosmetic procedures you have been thinking about,” says award-winning cosmetic plastic surgeon Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg, M.D., F.A.C.S. The winter season allows people to show off their new look over winter vacation as well as enjoy their results before summertime starts in the Hamptons. From surgical to non-surgical options, winter is the perfect time for men and women to rejuvenate their face and body and achieve the look they desire. This is especially true for women who have lost weight or have had children and would like to turn back the hands of time and regain their figure. The Greenberg Modern Mommy Make-Over provides a high-tech solution for women interested in taking action to improve their look. More and more women are having children later in life and their bodies do not bounce back the way they did when they were younger, or after their first pregnancy. Although diet and exercise are essential, areas such as the lower abdomen where the skin has been stretched and the muscles weakened may never return to normal without help. By creating a highly individualized plan to meet each patient’s specific needs and aesthetic goals, we can perform a variety of both surgical and non-surgical
procedures to address concerns of the breasts, abdomen, arms, and thighs with little to no downtime. Surgical procedures such as breast augmentation, with or without a breast lift, abdominoplasty, liposuction, and Cellulaze for stubborn cellulite, as well as surgical and nonsurgical vaginal rejuvenation, all help to achieve the body you desire. In addition to these body contouring and enhancement procedures, surgical facial procedures are a quick solution that will refresh and restore your look quickly with amazingly little downtime. Unfortunately, nothing stops the aging process for both men and women — not even a facelift. However, a facelift can turn back the aging process by 10 years. Facelifts improve the visible signs of aging by removing excess fat, tightening muscles, and removing extra sagging skin from the face and neck. Facelifts will correct and tighten both the skin and deeper muscular layers of the face. “Each patient is treated in my state-of-the-art, accredited ambulatory center. From our first meeting to the weeks following surgery, I want each patient to be happy with their full experience. I use cutting-edge imaging to help patients visualize their surgical results and mentor them on how a natural-looking and effective outcome can make a significant impact on reaching their goals. Each patient has unique goals and concerns. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach,” says Dr. Greenberg. Dr. Greenberg combines advanced surgical techniques with cutting-edge technology that has his patients back to daily routines quickly, without evidence that they had anything done. “Having my patients restaurant-ready in a matter of days is possible with my modern mini-facelift approach. I also recommend combining surgical facial procedures with non-surgical facial treatment options such as injectables and/or laser procedures for a complete and polished look,” he says. The fleet of technology at his MedSpa includes treatments for a variety of enhancements, such as skin-tightening, cellulite-reduction, nonsurgical fat-reduction with CoolSculpting and Emsculpt, as well as tattoo removal and sweat reduction with the revolutionary MiraDry system. Dr. Greenberg explains, “My Morpheus8 device combines microneedling with radio frequency to stimulate the natural healing process of your own cells and tissue and achieve radiantly younger and healthier skin.” Starting now helps to ensure you look and feel your best for your winter vacation as well as the upcoming summer season. For more information about Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg, call 631.287.4999 or visit greenbergcosmeticsurgery.com. Social Life
TheBeauty of Confidence BREAST BODY FACE INJECTIONS MEDSPA
Award Winning Celebrity Plastic Surgeon and Expert Injector
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STEPHEN T. GREENBERG, M.D., F.A.C.S. Southampton Woodbury Smithtown Manhattan Boca Raton 631.287.4999 GreenbergCosmeticSurgery.com
NOT AN ACTUAL PATIENT *BY NEW BEAUTY
DR. SHAWN SADRI COSMETIC & GENERAL DENTISTRY NEW YORK CITY
STAR QUALITY & VIP TREATMENT IN A STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITY Dr. Shawn Sadri and his extraordinary team provide a VIP experience every time you visit the New York office. When you choose our cosmetic and general dentistry services, you will enjoy a luxurious and comfortable atmosphere while receiving world-class dental treatment.
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10 TIPS ON STAYING HEALTHY DURING THE HOLIDAYS By Kristy Rao The holiday season is upon us! It may be hard to maintain your healthy diet and exercise regimen. When this time of year rolls around, it’s common to put on a few extra pounds. Then comes the New Year, and everyone seems to have the same resolution. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid steering off track. Here are my top tips:
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By all means, indulge . . . in moderation. Depriving yourself will backfire. Basically, treat stuffing and mashed potatoes as you would a condiment, having a few tablespoons of each. Fill your plate with lean protein and non-starchy vegetables. Then, don’t go for seconds. Don’t show up hungry at a party. Snack at home on something like seed crackers and carrots with hummus or an apple with almond butter. You will be less likely to engage in mindless eating. If there’s a buffet, scan it for healthy options and load up your plate with them. Instead of bringing a bottle of wine to a gathering, contribute a salad or vegetable side. This will ensure that you’ll have a healthy option.
Stay hydrated, especially while drinking alcohol. Try drinking one glass of water between every glass of alcohol. Drinking too much alcohol not only spikes blood sugar levels but also leads to eating foods you wouldn’t otherwise eat at a holiday party and feeling unmotivated to eat well the day after. Avoid drinks like eggnog (340 calories a cup) or any type of cocktail. Instead, stick to a couple of glasses of wine.
Put down your fork between every bite of food. When you eat quickly, you don’t give yourself enough time to properly digest your food. Eating quickly can lead to overeating before you realize that you are actually full. Before you know it, you will be left feeling stuffed and regretting it. Limit yourself to one dessert. Don’t fill up your plate with every type of pie, cookie, and cake. Stick with your favorite and don’t go overboard. Keep yourself from noshing on holiday treats at work by keeping some healthy snacks nearby, such as fruit, nuts, and a healthy protein bar. Preparation is key. Use nutritious substitutes in your cooking. For example, make a dessert like chocolate avocado pudding, which is both gluten- and dairy-free. Instead of refined white flour, use almond flour in your recipes.
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Prioritize finding time to exercise, whether going for a long walk before or after dinner or hitting the gym in the morning. Just do it.
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Don’t do your holiday shopping online. Get out and walk. It’s a great way to work in cardio.
Finally, limit indulging to actual holidays. However, don’t confuse the holidays with the entire season. Enjoy your food, but not to the point where you will regret it. Be merry!
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SHARON GRASSO LME, CLT. PMUA BEAUTY EXPERT, AESTHETIC PRACTITIONER & LUMINARY FOR SCITON INC. By Christine Montanti Photography By Gen Nishino
With over two decades of experience in plastic surgery, practice management, aesthetics, and permanent makeup, the founder of Permanent Touch Cosmetics, Sharon Grasso, is pleased to announce she has joined forces with Sciton Inc.: the leading facial and body rejuvenation laser systems company known in the industry as the “Rolls Royce of Lasers.” Sharon has perfected a formula to achieve amazing results using Sciton’s non-ablative facial and body rejuvenation technology. In addition, Sharon and her team are also using Sciton’s Broad Band Light (BBL) equipment to complement cosmetic surgical procedures. As a plastic surgery consultant, and business advisor, Sharon offers her professional services to practices that purchase Sciton equipment; she works alongside doctors, and assists with practice techniques and protocols to extenders, aestheticians, and nurses. Having cultivated and managed a substantial aesthetic practice for over 20 years, and as an accredited expert practitioner and consultant, Sharon understands how to get the best return on the investment of this transformative equipment. The incredible results experienced by her clients have undoubtedly made Sharon the most sought after and leading aesthetic practitioner in the industry. “Aesthetic practices need to have their extenders motivated and the practices need to identify how to most effectively package Sciton’s services and procedures for optimal patient results,” Sharon explains. The client base within these offices should be informed how effective these treatments can be alone, or when they are paired properly with various aesthetic and surgical procedures. Sciton’s BBL services can enhance the appearance of SocialLifeMagazine.com
the skin and, in many cases, even make the skin look and behave substantially younger. Often, these amazing results can help patients put off having a more invasive procedure for many years. The accurate positioning, marketing and integration of this incredible cutting-edge technology will enable aesthetic practices to have excellent client results and retention.” Sciton systems are designed to provide various treatment options with minimal downtime. Non -ablative procedures such as Forever Young BBL which turns back the clock and treats everything from rosacea to sun damage can be used alone or paired with the newest treatment option, Moxi Micro Laser Peel (MOXI) which effectively treats epidermal melasma. This corrects tone and texture with little to no downtime and can be used year-round and is safe for all skin types. Sharon was the first practice in the greater New York area to offer BBL HERO; (High Energy Rapid Output) the first inmotion pulsed light device created capable of treating an entire body in under an hour. Sharon reveals, “I can effectively treat an entire face, neck and decolette in under 7 minutes with incredible results. I really enjoy helping my clients look and feel their best with technology that naturally improves the appearance of skin by increasing collagen production.” Sharon’s practice is located in the offices of celebrity plastic surgeon, Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg, of Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology in Woodbury, New York City, and Southampton. For an appointment with call 917.734.7378. Follow Sharon on Instagram @permanenttouchcosmetics
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SANDY COHEN ART HAMPTONS Sandy Cohen is an artist born in Israel, based in New York City and the Hamptons. She started creating art as a child and sold her first piece at 13. Her works are currently in the private collections of two royal families as well as in museums and galleries internationally. Sandy’s pieces are filled with deep messages that have come from her life experiences. Despite her struggle with dysautonomia, she continues to create in the hope that through her journey she can be an inspiration for others to never give up.
SCHEDULE A PRIVATE VIEWING OF RECENT WORKS BY SANDY COHEN 631.296.8272
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LUCILLE KHORNAK DELIVERING THE FINEST IN PHOTOGRAPHY By Mago
888.858.1827 lucillekhornak.com SocialLifeMagazine.com
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our first glance at Lucille Khornak’s photographs will convince you that they are more than just the result of a click of the camera. Her eye for detail, her creativity, and her passion combine to produce soulful, whimsical, and energetic images. Khornak’s portfolio includes loving photographs of children as well as adults of all ages, of beauty and fashion shots created on location and in the studio. Destination travel excites her as the newness of a place is not only inspiring but further ignites her creativity.
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Quality is everlasting in a world filled with noise. She is an expert of color printing and has mastered the digital version of black-and-white. Consequently, the high quality she provides her clientele is evidenced in individual photographs as well as the black-and-white groupings she designs to fill entire gallery walls. Her multi-page Prestige Albums, in which each spread tells a story with an elegant flair, and the finest custom-made holiday greeting cards are also highly regarded among her subjects and fellow photographers alike. From individual portraiture to photographs of nuclear and extended family groups, Lucille is the number one choice of photographer to provide images that will be cherished for many lifetimes. Lucille Khornak Photography & Art Gallery 2400 Montauk Hwy, Bridgehampton 888.858.1827 lucillekhornak.com SocialLifeMagazine.com
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THE LATEST IN ART AND DESIGN AT THE MONACO YACHT SHOW By Kevin Berlin Photography By Honorata Perzanowska
Kevin Berlin with superyacht Artefact, Reymond Langton Design
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he world’s leading superyacht show returned in 2021, exceeding expectations. After a year and a half of uncertainty, the Monaco Yacht Show came home to port. For Penelope, the faithful wife of Odysseus, the time for unraveling yarn at night has ended. The ancient mariner has returned home. For the last 30 years, yachting enthusiasts have flocked to an elegant, sun-drenched former pirate port on the French Riviera. The Principality of Monaco, less than a square mile, comprises mini skyscrapers and ancient fortresses backdropped by trees and mountains, and constantly reinvents itself as a surprisingly modern place. The Monaco Yacht Show, located at legendary Port Hercules, featured the ultimate insider look at the latest in luxury lifestyle, technology, and trends. It also presented a perfect opportunity to discover what’s new in art and design. With 440 exhibitors and 101 superyachts worth an estimated $4.2 billion at the start of the show, it doesn’t require a
lot of imagination for visitors to feel like a character from the latest Bond movie. Hearts beat faster to dazzling displays of everything yacht. Industry experts presented high-speed water toys, personal submarines, helicopters, wine cellars, rare and exclusive vehicles from Klassen, Brabus, and Montecarlo Automobiles. “All yacht manufacturers are at capacity around the world. It’s a seller’s market at the moment,” said Juan Morillo of United Yacht Sales. While there was no formal theme to this year’s show, on opening day it was hard to miss the BlueNautech yacht by Heesen on a deep turquoise sea adorning the cover of The Financial Times. The wrap-around ad proclaimed “Sailing Our Oceans Responsibly” and set the tone for 2021 and beyond. The idea of sustainability, reducing waste, and giving back seems to be the major factors influencing yacht design for years to come. Quid tum . . . . what’s next? Sport that tuxedo and place your bets. You only live twice. Social Life
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Kevin Berlin with the latest from Montecarlo Automobiles
Mini Art Interviews with Naomi Tobin, a designer for Artefact; fine-art photographer David Yarrow; and Robert Smith, the founder of SHADOWCAT
NAOMI TOBIN OF REYMOND LANGTON DESIGN Tell us about Artefact. Is it true there is no other boat like her on the market? Yes, there is no other boat like Artefact! She is not only visually very different from any other boat on the market but she also embodies a unique blend of qualities, where the attention to detail with engineering and technology underlying the yacht is matched with a modern, characterful style and atmosphere with clever use of materials and shapes. So, in answer to your question: We do not think there is another boat on the market that successfully ties in all these qualities of design.
Describe the concept bring the outside in. We believe this has been achieved with the large expanse of glass windows, wall to wall and floor to ceiling in some places, linking the interior with the beautiful and exotic vistas one would expect to see at sea. We created a warm, natural atmosphere throughout the interior with light bleached oak and taupe sycamore woods as the signature materials used for the architectural elements of the design, contrasting with soft bronze and dark walnut accent elements that are integrated into unique, angular interpretations of the graphical elements of the exterior design.
Form and function unite. Which new design features are you most excited about? The size of the windows creating expansive vistas is something new to yachts! With careful consideration paid to the engineering, naval architecture, and dramatic exterior design, it was important for us to reflect this innovative concept with the interior styling, and enhance the distinctive character of the yacht’s layout, while also meeting the personal specification of high acoustic performance and practical living spaces.
Quid tum . . . What’s next? The only way is up in our eyes and we have set a new benchmark for ourselves with Artefact. We aspire to continue to use large wall-to-wall windows. This is something that everyone who is building a yacht is going to want! New and exciting technologies are also something that most owners want, which is an evergrowing market, so the possibilities are endless. We are always on the hunt for the most innovative design elements and we are always looking for new artists and artisans to collaborate with.
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DAVID YARROW FINE-ART PHOTOGRAPHER Endangered animals, the Wild West, Cindy Crawford, wolves of Wall Street. Is there a common theme that unites your work? I think that is for others to decide, but I do think the key to good photography and memorable photographs is what is in front of the camera, not the camera or indeed the person behind the camera. It needs to be interesting and grab and hold the attention of others. Focus is a key word for me — it deliberately includes or excludes. If it is meant to include, it must be pin sharp. I care a great deal about execution and sharpness. I think compositional balance is a key variable in strong images; it was true of the Dutch Masters centuries ago and it is key to my work today. I like my photographs to have emotion and that normally means I am close to the subject. How many truly great images have been taken with a telephoto lens? Looking at auctions — very few. What does it take to create a great photograph? Kevin Berlin with Like Father Like Son, David Yarrow photograph, I think three things. It can never 71 x 76 in., 2020. G & M Design Gallery exhibition be retaken. It can be looked at for a long time. If possible, it tugs at our emotions. You need to get lucky in Rwanda with gorillas and luck evens out, which is why I have been up that mountain 12 times. Tell us about the image Like Father Like Son featured at the Monaco Yacht Show. Quid tum . . . What’s next? It’s a simple shot. There is not a huge amount of skill inAntarctica. It’s always a thrill and also a challenge. I need to be volved, but it is such a rare sight to have the silverback there creative and authentic. I am scared of being dull or mundane. side by side with a young baby. It does happen, of course, but It is not good enough just to go there. You have to be smart in my experience not often with such an unobstructed view. with your time. Sometimes simplicity can win and this is one such occasion. Social Life
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Wayfinder, second vessel in the SHADOWCAT range, launched 2021. Photo by SHADOWCAT.
U-boat, personal submarine.
Toybox, catamaran support vessel by SHADOWCAT. Photo by SHADOWCAT
ROBERT SMITH THE FOUNDER OF SHADOWCAT What inspired you to create SHADOWCAT? Over the course of my career in the superyacht construction industry, I saw time and time again that customers were being limited by monohull support yacht designs. By developing the SHADOWCAT catamaran platform, clients had 40 percent more space to carry toys and room for accommodations. A catamaran platform also offers significantly more stability over a monohull vessel. The additional stability means that 70 percent more weight can be craned off the side, for larger tenders, submarines, and the like. We’ve also seen, in many cases, it has also meant that customers no longer have a need to upgrade to a larger superyacht. They can keep the one they have and shift storage and crew to the support yacht, which has more than enough room for whatever is needed. SHADOWCAT’s design allows creative expression for its owner. The beauty of SHADOWCAT support yachts is that they are fully bespoke, meaning owners can customize them to meet their needs and passions. Whether an owner desires a helicopter pad and full hangar, large tenders, a submarine, a beach club, accommodation for support staff, a Covid isolation space, or even an at-sea observatory, we can accommodate it. The only limit is imagination. When compared to the competition, SocialLifeMagazine.com
SHADOWCATs haul more toys and cargo per square meter, and can often accommodate everything desired without having to order a larger vessel. Pair this with the fact that our catamaran designs are highly efficient, offer some of the fastest speeds in their class, and provide unmatched stability, and you may have the perfect support yacht. Can catamaran yacht support vessels help save the planet? A catamaran by design is more efficient than a monohull and, therefore, is a more efficient way to carry support equipment and personnel. It can also carry all of the waste treatment equipment for not only itself but also the mother ship, allowing for a zero discharge setup. Also if correctly designed they can be utilized to support natural disaster relief by bringing in containers, personnel, and supplies — a true support mission. Quid tum . . . What’s next? What is exciting for us is the opportunity to develop vessels to meet the wide range of requirements which we are asked to accommodate on these SHADOWCAT vessels and how adaptive we find the platform can be to meeting these requirements. We also have our 48-meter vessel, Toybox, which has stirred a lot of interest and especially with a delivery date of summer 2023. So what is next? More custom-designed SHADOWCATs for sure.
Set on the top floor of the historic 'Little Flatiron Building' Triangle Loft is a newly renovated, loftlike space where urban meets modern. Built in 1849, the space has kept its original characteristics and warmth while its personality has evolved into an exclusive feel within an inclusive community. White brick walls and full wrap around windows are complemented by the street art of NYC’s local artists. Our loft creates a vibe which can only be felt in person. For those who are seeking inspiration or those who create it, Triangle Loft is a place and a space where relationships are fostered and dreams become realities.
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F E AT U R E S JOHN KING | CHIEF CUSTOMER OFFICER/CEO
Cover Feature Produced by Christine Montanti | Photography by Stefano Giovannini | Grooming by J.D. Rose
1974–2019
2015–PRE S E N T
F E AT U R E S
JUST LUCKY ? By Patrick Shannon
“John King is an amazing success story. He started with one deli and built a New York tri-state hospitality empire with more than $150 million in annual sales. John and I met through a client and a friend, Matt Bruderman, president and CEO of Bruderman Brothers, the investment banking and wealth management firm that represented King in a monumental sale to Sysco in 2019. When two true entrepreneurs like ourselves meet, generally something good happens. I was blown away by John King’s passion for the hospitality business and the creatively he brings to it. It is my pleasure and privilege to support John’s insurance needs for his new businesses.” JAMES C. METZGER Chairman & CEO The Whitmore Agency
It’s 1973 at 11:30 a.m, just after early morning work-study classes at St. John the Baptist High School in West Islip. Fifteenyear-old John King begins his usual morning routine: heading to work at his dad’s deli. After hitching to the Babylon train station, then boarding the LIRR for Oceanside, he clocks in at the shop, completing what is the better part of a two-hour commute. He’ll repeat this long commute until he is old enough to get a used car and can drive himself to work. He often works for his dad seven days a week, even after starting his own food business in 1974 — an enterprise that grew exponentially. Forty-five years later, King’s love for and dedication to his hospitality business resulted in the monumental sale of his company to Sysco, a global leader in selling, marketing, and distributing food products to restaurants, healthcare and educational facilities, lodging establishments, and other entities that prepare meals away from home.
“J. Kings is a well-respected, New York-area broadline distributor, and we are happy to welcome them into the Sysco family of businesses,” said Greg Bertrand, Sysco’s executive vice president, U.S. foodservice operations.
“It’s amazing how lucky you get when you work 80 hours a week!” “We believe J. Kings, with its strong local presence, combined with Sysco’s scale and depth, will provide our customers with even more of what they need to be successful in the competitive New York-area market,” added Bertrand. When asked about the sale, King commented, “It’s amazing how lucky you get when you work 80 hours a week.”
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C o n s t a nt l y G r o w i n g
2011
2003
Krazy Cooks Kitchen expanded production, on HMR Product with Forwarding Delivery Service.
Westbrook Farms Baked Goods Division was born.
FOR OVER 40 YEARS
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Kitchen Cuts Fresh Cut Produce Division was founded.
1980 Annual sales doubled as
J. Kings Local initiative introduced.
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a result.
J. Kings
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and the back of Terrace Garden
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created.
1981 J. Kings second
Delicatessen.
Food Show. Annual sales doubled as a
1997 Mountain Blend Coffee brand was created.
J.Kings moved to Oakdale Distribution Center
1998 J. Kings moved to current Holtsville Distribution Center with conference center and culinary kitchens.
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J. Kings became a full-time business.
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Digital Motion, J. Kings marketing division opens.
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The WB Stockyard brand launched.
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Westbrook Farms Produce Division was established.
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Pro-motion J. Kings promotional division established.
2009
WB Stockyard’s USDA Facility Opened it’s Doors
Launched Restaurant Row Kitchens Home Meal Replacement brand and began direct to store selling.
J. Kings Farmers’ Market opens its doors and attracts Stop and Shop as a local produce retail customer.
HOW IT HAPPENED . . . Working 60 hours a week while still in high school, how do you start a new business? Good question. For John King the answer was easy, yet its execution innovative and interesting. King practically grew up in Maxwell’s Deli, his parents’ German-style market, doing what you do in a family business — everything! Serving customers, making up food orders, cleaning, taking inventory, and making sure the market had the basics that customers often came in for. These basics — butter and eggs — sparked the fire for King’s $150+ million business. In 1974, J. Kings was born in King’s parents’ garage and out of the back of Terrace Garden Deli. While he was picking up products for the deli, he started offering his services to other local retailers, including his father’s brother and other friends in the business. He became a retail jobber: buying and selling goods at wholesale and taking a fee for shopping and delivery services. In ’74 he was jobbing one day a week, later gradually increasing the days dedicated to jobbing until J. Kings Distribution became his full-time business in 1979.
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J. Kings breaks ground on Grapes & Greens agricultural enterprise terminal.
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J. Kings hosts its first Independent University Business Building class.
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Grapes & Greens begins distribution of beers and wines.
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J. Kings begins distribution of Polar Beverages.
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Polar Crossing, J. Kings storage facility opened its doors.
Cucina Biello Italian Specialty brand was born.
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J. Kings opens Manhattan office.
J. Kings Hospitality Design Division was established.
Marketing teams
J. Kings moved to a 2,000 square ft distribution center in Bohemia
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Culinary and
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John King’s garage
J. Kings acquires JNI Frozen Foods.
2005
J. Kings first Food Show.
J. Kings was born in
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2015
Grapes & Greens begins importing & distributing Fine International Wines.
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Riverhead Ciderhouse Cidery, Orchard and Tasting Room opens it’s doors.
While J. Kings was developing and growing, so was the King family. John married at 19 and the first baby joined the clan when he was 21. Always self-motivated to grow revenues, his lack of family health insurance was a new impetus for success. After creating food shows in 1980 and 1981, sales doubled year over year, and King was beginning to do what he does best — innovate and represent unique manufacturers as well as create new products and services. All the while he was reinvesting in his distribution facilities on Long Island. Whether his inspiration and ability were innate or learned, or both, King looked to make moves every year that would build his business and make him increasingly important to his manufacturing partners and retail customers. Produce, coffee, Italian specialties, bottled water, soft drinks, frozen foods, and more were initiatives he took to market. He sold to everyone — local food stores and delis, restaurants, country clubs, and even family-style chains like TGI Fridays were on his hit list. Anyone with a truck and storage space can be a jobber, but John King was a visionary. The most important things he took
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to his retail customers were ideas! For example, King created design and marketing divisions and provided concepts and consulting services at no charge. When food retailers told him that preparing individual cups of coffee for multiple customers was a problem, King had a solution: Let consumers serve themselves. He bought self-serve coffee machines for some of his customers and the rest is history. Nearly all quick-serve delis and restaurants, like Pret A Manger and Kitchen Kabaret, among countless others, have adopted this practice. An even bolder move was the tours King organized so his customers could be exposed to practices that he thought were best in class and could help their business. Even if an exemplary business wasn’t his customer, he’d take his clients to see what it was doing right. “Take the best and leave the rest,” King said. One of the places he liked to visit was Harry’s In
A Hurry in Atlanta, Georgia. “They had great deli sandwiches and made-to-order lunch salads,” King noted. “Want to know how good? Whole Foods bought them.” King differentiated and grew his business with his creative strategies. J. Kings eventually became a prime acquisition target — at a healthy multiple — that Sysco wanted for its food service business on Long Island and the New York metropolitan area. King’s investment in himself, his people, and his business paid off handsomely when he sold his company to Sysco. Today he is on to another passion: wine making. What King describes as “a global glut of wine,” makes us greatly anticipate his next inspired game plans to make business better for his on- and off-premise customers and the more than 14 million people they serve on Long Island, in New York City, Westchester, the Hudson Valley, and Rockland County.
THE GRAPES & GREENS STORY John King has always had a palate for fine dining and fine wines. Wine distribution through Grapes & Greens, his newest venture, was a natural progression in the growth of his business model. “Provide customers with the quality products and best services they want and need.” Grapes & Greens is quickly building its wine team, product portfolio, and customer base. Grapes & Greens is committed to becoming an important player in the fine wine distribution network throughout the United States. He has been doing business throughout metropolitan New York for more than 40 years, providing his customers with strategies for growth and support with integral brand marketing. The distribution atmosphere among retailers and restaurants is ripe for viable options beyond the massive distributors that dominate with mostly big brands. Grapes & Greens also goes beyond the competition of other smaller distributors, bringing in qualified professionals with proven success, providing a formidable infrastructure and all the elements needed to properly position products, to grow sales, and service brands.
THE GRAPES & GREENS VISION The company mission is to continually enhance its customers’ profits by being the distributor that provides innovative, value-added solutions in response to customers’ ever-changing needs. To achieve this vision, Grapes & Greens treats its staff, customers, and suppliers like partners, with integrity and respect, and recognizes that its success and profitability depend on the success of its partners. “Thank you to our growing partners in Italy.” JOHN KING Grapes & Greens, Chief Customer Officer/CEO
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KING’S KEYS WORK HARD | WORK SMART CREATE & INNOVATE
Know Your Retail Customer Ask them…
“How can we earn more of your business?”
Know Your Customer’s Customer
“How can we improve consumers retail experience with our products and service ideas?”
Take Care of Your People “Give them the chance to own a piece of the business they help build.”
“ Provide customers with the quality products and best services they want and need. ”
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A MUTUAL CLIENT
Frank Bono
PRIMI ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE — WEST ISLIP If West Islip needed a lighthouse today, there’s a good chance the Primi Italian Steakhouse would be nominated. Everything about the building, the land, and its curb appeal are big, bright, and welcoming, just as a lighthouse should be. If you believe that you begin to taste your food with your eyes, well then, your experience at Primi begins on Montauk Highway. MODERN ITALIAN CUISINE In the heart of Long Island’s Great South Bay, Primi stands alone at 999 Montauk Highway in West Islip. It’s an unofficial landmark gateway to both Robert Moses State Park and Jones Beach to the south and routes 27A/27 that will take you on a scenic passage to the East End of Long Island. Drawing from communities all along the South Shore, from Seaford to Sayville and beyond, Primi is a dinner place and a place for special dinners. Since 2014, restaurateur Frank Bono has run a house that is grand as well as warm and inviting. Lighting, inside and out is deliberate: striking outside and subtle inside. The bar area sits under a 28-foot vaulted ceiling and near a fireplace for warming comfort. The restaurant also has a second cozy fireplace and three dining rooms. So, for the most intimate dinner for two to a family reunion, wedding, or company celebration for 100 or more, look for Primi’s bright lights.
While imagery and ambiance may have attracted you, here’s what will capture you. First, the Primi Italian Steakhouse promise to go the extra mile to make your dining experience perfect. Second, the menu features steaks that are USDA Prime and dry-aged for 28-days or more. Rounding out the offerings are chicken, veal, and lamb as well as salmon, tuna, lobster, shrimp, and branzino. And of course there is a full menu of classic Italian-heritage appetizers, pastas, and full courses. You won’t need a menu for Italian dishes. Order what you like and the chef will make it for you. Frank Bono is very hands on. He wants to meet you and get to know you. You, your family, and your friends are important to him and the Primi team. Over the last five years, Bono has had the pleasure of serving great meals and staging events, and he has also supported surrounding communities and charities with more than $100,000 in restaurant gift certificates, food, and contributions. Team Primi wants to be a light to help along the way. Primi Italian Steakhouse 999 Montauk Highway, West Islip primiitalian.com eat@primiitalian.com 631.526.9779 Social Life
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BROOKE SHIELDS NEW BEGINNINGS By Devorah Rose Empowerment is a through line in the life of Brooke Shields. The films that she is choosing remind us that women don’t necessarily need saving. Her newest business venture, Beginning is Now, is an internet platform where women of all ages can come together in a global community. Brooke’s work has a message of strength as well as hope because it’s all about knowing that every second is a chance for a new beginning. Unlike the Hollywood siren stereotype (a woman whose power is directly related to her youthful sexuality), Brooke’s power is rooted in wisdom gained over time. In her own words below, Brooke gives us the details of her latest work. Beginning is Now is a community based on the idea that it’s never too late to start any aspect of one’s life. Can you tell us more about the idea behind this new venture? I believe as women get older they come into their selves more and more. There is so much power in that growth. As that happens, women are less and less represented. In my life the strongest I’ve ever been is when I’ve had to pivot. When I’ve been put to the test and go into an arena I’ve never been in is when I grow the most. Every new chapter of my life I’ve had to go into blind and learn as I go. As women we grow into having careers, families, and other experiences — through all of these rites of passage we just become stronger and stronger. To me that’s inspiring and yet we aren’t really represented. It’s sort of you are paid attention to in your twenties and then suddenly you’re talking about diapers and dentures. The women I know over forty have all branched out and into new wonderful chapters in their lives. Whatever the pivot is, there is power in that. What is the most rewarding aspect of creating Beginning is Now? The most rewarding yet the most challenging
aspect was listening to my instincts and following my heart. I have no history building a business. It’s not what I studied in school, so leaping in without having any real experience or guarantees was scary. Yet when I watched all my hard work come together there was a feeling of confidence and appreciation. How does the community created by Beginning is Now tie into the product side of the business? It began with getting the message out. We plan to concentrate on purposeful products that will be born out of the community and what they want. Before starting a beauty line or other products, I wanted to make sure the products fit the part of the conversation the community wants to have. We also really want to make sure we are producing products that are both desired and needed. Can you tell us about your new Netflix movie, A Castle for Christmas? I found a real sense of empowerment with the character because the woman I play goes on a huge adventure by herself and takes on a new chapter. She has a child that just graduated college and chooses to go out on her own. Yes there is romance and there is a castle but the through line is that she is not waiting to be saved and there is something lovely about that. What was it like to film during an epidemic? Because it was in the middle of Covid and we all lived in the same compound, we were tested every day. We all stayed in our bubble and we became very close. We had knitting circles every night. We would go into an area and we would sit up and talk and tell stories. It was like being in a theater group or like being in camp. Everyone was so talented so the story telling was really great! Will you continue knitting? I think I’m going to transition to needlepoint because if I make a mistake in knitting, I’m not good at fixing it, but with needlepoint I can fix it.
Down to earth and focused on making the world better for women, Brooke Shields is always someone whose projects are exciting to watch come to life. Social Life
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KRISTIN CHENOWETH HOLIDAY BOUND By Devorah Rose Photography By John Russo
What inspired you to get in the studio and produce a Christmas album? I had a feeling that a lot of the world didn’t get to really have Christmas for a couple of years now. I know how much I missed just gathering and being with family and getting Christmas music and holiday music. That really inspired me. Are there any funny behind-the-scenes stories you can tell us about? I became very akin to the onsie. I might have done a lot of the record in, you know, a Christmas onsie. Were there any challenges to recording during the epidemic? Yes. All musicians were separated six feet apart and wore masks, and I was in a separate room. That brought us challenges. But we felt lucky to even be in a studio that would allow us to create.
The cover of Kristin Chenoweth’s newest album, Happiness is… Christmas, is all about light. Kristen is radiant amid a backdrop of glowing candles. The Tony- and Emmy-winning singer and actress who has captured our hearts on stage and screen has done it again with her renditions of treasured Christmas tunes. Kristin is well known for imbuing her roles with her sharp wit and warm heart. The feeling of joy and laughter is what we all need during the holidays! We caught up with Kristin to hear more about her recently released album.
Do you have a favorite song on the album? I can’t possibly pick a favorite song because every time I listen to the album, it changes. But right now, my favorite song is “A Little Road to Bethlehem.” It’s about Mary’s journey on her way to giving birth to Jesus. What did Christmas music mean to you as a child? It meant that my most favorite time of the year was coming, and I love all Christmas music. I love all holiday music frankly, and I just think about Frank and Dean and Andy Williams and Sammy Davis — all of those guys. Those were huge musical influences on my life and I remember their Christmas albums. I always dreamed that one day I’d get to do one and now this is my second. I’m a very lucky lady. Where will you be this Christmas? I will be in Oklahoma and Arkansas. I’m going to do a split on my Christmas. I can’t wait. Usually I’m working. This Christmas, I’m not working. I get to be with family and I can’t wait. But I’m working New Year’s Eve. Social Life
BOUTIQUE HOTEL
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JANET CHOI, M.D. FERTILIT Y EXPERT By Devorah Rose plan unique to each patient. During my personal journey with IVF (in vitro fertilization), she rooted for me and was emotionally invested in my success. Dr. Choi helped me fulfill the dream of having a baby and I interviewed Dr. Choi for Social Life in the hope that it helps those on their own fertility journey. At what point should a woman make an appointment with you? For women under the age of 35, it can be natural and normal for it take up to 12 months of unprotected intercourse with a male partner before she is considered to have issues with infertility. I usually suggest at least seeing a doctor to start testing around the sixth-month or ninth-month mark to stay ahead of the mark. For women 35 and above, most doctors agree (because age has such an impact on fertility) that six months of trying without success is considered “infertility” or at least “sub fertility.” So, I would advise seeing a doctor around the third month of trying, to stay ahead. For women who know upfront that they have issues which may impede their ability to conceive naturally, e.g. blocked fallopian tubes, partner with low or no sperm, very irregular cycles (suggesting a lack of regular ovulation), seeing a doctor as soon as they’re thinking about trying is reasonable. Janet Choi, M.D., a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist, is the medical director of CCRM New York, a practice devoted to fertility science, research, and treatment. Dr. Choi’s academic credentials are impressive. She earned an undergraduate degree, magna cum laude, from Harvard and received her medical degree from Columbia University, and completed her internship and residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Columbia University Medical Center. She then completed a fellowship in reproductive endocrinology and infertility at Weill Cornell Medical College. Dr. Choi has years of experience as a clinician and published author on topics related to reproductive medicine. New York Magazine named Dr. Choi a top doctor over several years, including 2021, and the magazine named her a Super Doctor in 2019. She has been voted by her peers to be named in Castle Connolly’s list of top doctors since 2015. Yet what sets Dr. Choi apart, in my opinion, cannot be found on a résumé, but is understood in person: Dr. Choi is a deeply caring person who always works carefully to tailor a fertility
What does CCRM do differently in comparison to other fertilty clinics? I can’t speak to how other clinics run. CCRM tries very hard to offer personalized care and treatment working with a team of excellent care providers, from physician to nurse to patient coordinator to billing staff. Embryology at CCRM is amazing! Dr Schoolcraft, the founder of CCRM, and his team of researchers have developed a state-of-the-art IVF lab which offers eggs and embryos the best chance of leading to present and future pregnancies. What impresses me the most is how the lab team is constantly working to stay at the forefront of IVF science and technology — from improving upon embryo culture media to optimizing the genetics testing platform for embryo testing. What should a patient expect when they meet you? I like to usually spend 45 to 60 percent of a first-time appointment meeting the patient (and her partner if she has one). Social Life
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I like to start off by understanding the reasons why she is seeking assistance (is it for longstanding infertility, just a fertility assessment, history of recurrent loss, egg freezing, etc?). I then go through her medical/surgical/GYN/OB family history. I review the appropriate tests to be done depending on her/their needs and usually finish up — after reviewing all her questions — with a physical exam and pelvic ultrasound. She then meets with my team and usually starts with pertinent blood tests. We touch base a few weeks later to go over results and a further plan of action (whether it is nothing at all or IUI [intrauterine insemination] or IVF). What do you recommend for single as well as married women in their mid-thirties who want to have children? Start trying!! Meet up with a reproductive endocrinologist to review the relevant baseline testing and go over the anonymous sperm-donor selection process. If they don’t want to have a child right away, consider exploring fertility preservation options with their doctor — whether egg or embryo freezing. Though aging doesn’t cause infertility or recurrent miscarriages in all women, an increasing proportion of women encounter infertility or recurrent loss issues as they age from 30 to 35 to 40 to 45, etc. So there is a lower likelihood of issues when women start the process at a younger age (if feasible). SocialLifeMagazine.com
Could you give us some fertility tips? Lifestyle adjustments are something you have control over and can help promote a healthy pregnancy: healthy, more plantbased eating; no or little alcohol consumption; regular exercise to maintain a healthy fitness level (remember, being pregnant is a major workout for your body); stopping use of any recreational drugs; making sure your vaccines are up to date (Covid, flu; chicken pox, measles, rubella, etc.). Folic acid use has been shown to greatly reduce the risk of brain and spine defects in offspring when mothers start taking folic acid before and throughout pregnancy. When a couple wants to try naturally, try not to stress about it. Try to enjoy each other’s company; have intercourse two to three times per week; and understand that, even for women in their young 30s, the normal average pregnancy rate per month is only about 15 percent, so it can take a little time.
Janet Choi, M.D. Medical Director CCRM 810 Seventh Avenue, Floor 21 ccrmivf.com 212.290.8100
S O C I ET Y — PA RT Y B E S T O F — EV E N T S
JEAN SHAFIROFF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL PANICCIA SocialLifeMagazine.com
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JACQUELINE WELD DRAKE JEAN SHAFIROFF INTERVIEWS JACQUELINE WELD DRAKE, CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF CASITA MARIA
By Jean Shafiroff I understand that you are very involved with Casita Maria. Tell me about it? Yes, indeed. I have served as chairman of the Casita Maria Center for Arts and Education for many years, and have also chaired the annual fundraiser, Fiesta. I am exceedingly proud of the work it does. Jean, we are happy to have just elected you to our board of directors.
How do you go about achieving your goals? Casita Maria creates a safe and welcoming environment away from the streets. We offer quality arts and educational programming, integrating music, visual arts, dance, and theater with academic assistance and youth development principles to spark creativity and nurture social-emotional skills, expression, self-knowledge, and leadership abilities. We prepare young people for college and career readiness, and encourage positivity and engagement with parents, caregivers, and others in the community.
Jean Shafiroff photography by Michael Paniccea
Explain Casita Maria for our readers. It is a group of people dedicated to the families and children situated in the South Bronx, the poorest congressional district in the country. We’ve been around for 87 years as New York’s first Latino-serving charity, long enough to have deep roots and to have secured the trust of the people we serve. Almost one third of New Yorkers are Latino, and we serve the most vulnerable families and children, many single-headed households, as we fight poverty. Our after-school and summer educational programs serve hundreds of K–12 children each day at our South Bronx facility and at Harlem Village Academy in Manhattan. We teach children to succeed.
Jacqueline Weld Drake
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Children served by Casita Maria
What kind of instruction does Casita Maria provide? We have dance, music, vocal, and drama instruction as well as easel arts, and more. We have dedicated art spaces with highquality, modern technology. We also have spaces where kids can perform or exhibit. As one 5th grader in the program said, ‘When I start dancing and singing, I just forget about the people. I do not see the people from the stage, so I just get going. It makes me feel like me, and I feel excited, even if I am shaking!’
director, and the team at Casita Maria. Even with the devastation of Covid they continued to function — distributing meals, vouchers, and helping with online educational programs. All this in the poorest congressional district in the country, where the effects of Covid were most felt due to multi-generational housing, lack of access to medical care, and our constituents being among the first to be laid off. And people were going hungry.
Is your art programming available to the public? As a bridge between the arts and the community, Casita Maria also presents exhibitions and performances. These celebrate the art and artists that reflect the cultures of the South Bronx. Open to the public, these provide the experience of art to the wider community, and are traditionally well attended. Visiting artists create and exhibit work that bespeaks the culture of the community, as they interact with students and families.
What about the effect of Covid on fundraising? Although Casita Maria has managed its finances well and has survived, our main source of unrestricted funds is our annual fundraising gala, Fiesta, which I have chaired for many years. I am proud to say that it has earned its place as the best gala party of the fall season — short on speeches and long on fun, all in the purpose of a serious cause. But Covid has forced us to cancel this year’s and last year’s Fiesta. We hope that it will be back as glamorous as ever next year. In the meantime, we are sending out an invitation to support Fiesta in the hope that our stalwart friends and supporters might continue their generosity. We may plan a spring event in Palm Beach, where so many of our friends might be.
How has Covid affected the organization? Clearly it has had a profound effect on our ability to deliver programming. Schools were closed, and mandates changed from day to day. I am so proud of Haydee Morales, our executive SocialLifeMagazine.com
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HRH Prince Dimitri of Yugoslavia, Carolina Herrera, Jacqueline Weld Drake, and Reinaldo Herrera. Photo by Patrick McMullan
How can people learn more and donate? They can go to our website casitamaria.org. We hope they will all learn more. ABOUT JACQUELINE WELD DRAKE The biographer and novelist Jacqueline Weld wrote the definitive biography of the art patron and dealer Peggy Guggenheim, Peggy: The Wayward Guggenheim. The book was recently the basis for the documentary Peggy Guggenheim: Art Addict, which featured Jacqueline, whose recorded interviews with Peggy Guggenheim formed much of the sound tract. Jacqueline Weld is also the author of Rara Avis, a novel based on her life experiences in Venezuela. Jacqueline is also known for her series of literary interviews, including those with Sally Bedell Smith, Chris Matthews, Alice Hoffman, Michael Gross, Erica Jong, Wally Lamb, Tony Mendez, Susan Isaacs, and Rebecca Miller. As chairman of Casita Maria, Inc., the oldest Hispanic settlement house in New York City, and of its annual Fiesta, she has received a great deal of attention for her tireless work on behalf of the underprivileged of this city.
ABOUT JEAN SHAFIROFF Jean Shafiroff — philanthropist, advocate, TV host, and author of the book Successful Philanthropy: How to Make a Life By What You Give — is a volunteer leader of several charitable causes. She serves on several charity boards: Southampton Hospital Association, American Humane, NYC Mission Society, Casita Maria, The NY Women’s Foundation, French Heritage Society, Couture Council of the Museum at FIT, Global Strays, Jewish Board (honorary trustee), and Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation honorary board. In addition, she is the national spokesperson for American Humane’s Feed the Hungry Covid-19 Program. She is the ambassador for the Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation. Jean is the producer and host of the TV show Successful Philanthropy, which airs six times a week through LTV studios in East Hampton. It also airs on Sun20TV in Southampton and MNN in NYC every Saturday night at 8:30 p.m. Jean holds two degrees: a BS in Physical Therapy from the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Columbia University and an MBA in finance from Columbia Business School at Columbia University. Social Life
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THE VIENNESE OPERA BALL By Rolise Rachel
Hubert Heiss, Silvia Frieser, Jean Shafiroff, Helene Steinhaeusl, Yoko Nakamura-Haider, Michael Haider, Photo by Rob Rich SocietyAllure.com
Sessa von Richthofen, Richard Johnson Photo by Patrick McMullan
Michele Herbert Photo by Patrick McMullan
David Hochberg, Pamela O’Connor Photo by Rob Rich SocietyAllure.com
The Viennese Opera Ball is one of the most anticipated events of the Manhattan fall gala season, as this prestigious event is attended by international diplomats, dignitaries, sovereign military orders, and those in high society. This year the swing dinner dance gala, “The Golden Age” black-tie event, was hosted at The Metropolitan Club on Fifth Avenue. Guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and libations in the variegated marble great room with a hanging Venetian lantern before moving into the west lounge ballroom known for its high ceilings, spectacular American-Renaissance murals, and gilded moldings. The Misha Piatigorsky Trio — Misha Piatigorsky on piano, Benny Benack III singing and on trumpet, Sergei Avanesov on saxophone — and the singer Kennedy performed as guests viewed silent auction items generously donated by supporters of the gala. The iconic club was designed by the celebrated architect Stanford White, whose style followed the principles of American-Renaissance architecture. The building is known for its grandeur, elegant design, and terrace with spectacular views of Central Park, a perfect venue for the Viennese Opera Ball. SocialLifeMagazine.com
Eve Brookville Photo by Rob Rich SocietyAllure.com
The philanthropist Jean Shafiroff and Denise Rich were gala chairs for the non-profit that benefited Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation for Cancer Research. Each year, the Opera Ball supports charitable organizations and projects in New York or Vienna. The honorary gala chairs were The Honorable Michael Ludwig, governor and mayor of Vienna; The Honorable Helene Steinhaeusl, consul general of Austria in New York; and Michael Haider, director of the Austrian Cultural Forum, New York. The gala, which was founded as an annual whitetie charity gala 66 years ago, has support from Vienna. It was created to connect the two countries to continually build economic relationships. Notable attendees included president of the Viennese Opera Ball Silvia Frieser, event chair Hubert Heiss, Yoko NakamuraHaider, Martin Shafiroff, Malan Breton, Scott Stone, Ana Stone, Eve Brookville, Sabine Riglos, Victoria Whipple, Paula Mahoney, Nelli Hantman, Imke Gerdes, Barbara Wennerholm, David Hochberg, Pamela O’Connor, Sonia Nassery Cole, Michele Herbert, Emily Mohr, Sessa von Richthofen, and Richard Johnson.
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ELSIE MCCABE THOMPSON PHILANTHROPIST JEAN SHAFIROFF INTERVIEWS ELSIE MCCABE THOMPSON, PRESIDENT OF THE MISSION SOCIETY OF NEW YORK CITY
By Jean Shafiroff
Jean Shafiroff and Elsie McCabe Thompson at Neighborhood Dinner of Mission Society of NYC
The Mission Society has served New York City for over 200 years. How has your service approach made a difference in the communities served? The Mission Society makes lasting differences in the communities we serve by implementing a hands-on approach to education. We serve over 3,400 students each year in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the Bronx through transformative programs that offer academic enrichment, career readiness, and college access programs that increase students’ chances of lifelong success. How has the pandemic impacted Mission Society of NYC’s approach to service delivery? Prior to Covid-19, three quarters of our families lived at or below the federal poverty line, and a third lived in temporary housing. The pandemic exacerbated their financial difficulties. We now see more families struggling to put food on the table.
Because students can’t focus on academics when they’re hungry or in a stressful environment, we expanded our scope of work to meet our families’ most basic needs. Through the generosity of our donors, we were able to provide students with care packages to help ease their families’ financial burdens and ensure they have nutritious meals at home. And most importantly, we let our families know we’re there for them by calling to check on their well-being, and provide referrals to food banks, medical care, and other critical services. Additionally, when schools went remote, most of our students didn’t have access to a computer or internet at home to complete their school work. Unfortunately, this situation only increased the education-opportunity gap, putting more students in danger of being left behind. In response, we mobilized our community to donate or loan technology to students who needed it and quickly pivoted to distance learning. Social Life
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Children at Mission Society of NYC
Our in-house team of educators transformed our curricula so we could continue to engage students through online literacy and STEM activities, provide homework help, and support parents as they homeschooled their children. For our high school programs, we created virtual office hours to help students with the college application and FAFSA processes, and offered virtual college tours. Working closely with our internship partners, we developed projects students could complete at home, allowing us to continue to pay those students for their internships. This was of utmost importance to us, since many students financially contribute to their households. What are some lessons that you’ve learned from this experience? The pandemic allowed us to experiment with new ideas amid so much uncertainty, and it is a great reminder of our ability to be nimble, to respond with compassion, and to find creative solutions to any challenges. One of the most important lessons that we learned is that we are so lucky to have such an incredible community of helpers. Our donors and board of directors stepped up to ensure Mission Society families were supported during a very difficult time, and we’re grateful to each and every one of them for helping us provide these critical services. Jean, we thank you for being a longstanding board member, past honoree, and great supporter of Mission Society of New York City. How can our readers learn more about the Mission Society of New York and how can they donate or get involved? They can visit our website at missionsociety.org and then they can contact us. SocialLifeMagazine.com
ABOUT ELSIE McCABE THOMPSON Elsie McCabe Thompson is the president of the Mission Society of New York City, one of the nation’s oldest social service organizations. Elsie is the former president of the Museum for African Art. She previously served as New York City Mayor David Dinkins’ chief of staff and as a senior litigator. She also co-founded and ran a mentoring program for minority students. ABOUT JEAN SHAFIROFF Jean Shafiroff — philanthropist, advocate, TV host, and author of the book Successful Philanthropy: How to Make a Life By What You Give — is a volunteer leader of several charitable causes. She serves on several charity boards: Southampton Hospital Association, American Humane, NYC Mission Society, Casita Maria, The NY Women’s Foundation, French Heritage Society, Couture Council of the Museum at FIT, Global Strays, Jewish Board (honorary trustee), and Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation honorary board. In addition, she is the national spokesperson for American Humane’s Feed the Hungry Covid-19 Program. She is the ambassador for the Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation. Jean is the producer and host of the TV show Successful Philanthropy, which airs six times a week through LTV studios in East Hampton. It also airs on Sun20TV in Southampton and MNN in NYC every Saturday night at 8:30 p.m. Jean holds two degrees: a BS in Physical Therapy from the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Columbia University and an MBA in finance from Columbia Business School at Columbia University.
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THE COLONY HOTEL LAUNCHED SOUTHAMPTON POP-UP AT CHRISTIE’S AUCTION HOUSE By Rolise Rachel
Sarah Wetenhall, Photography by BFA
On August 15, Christie’s Auction House Gallery at 1 Pond Lane, overlooking Agawam Park in Southampton, hosted the launch of the pop-up of the iconic The Colony Hotel from Palm Beach, which stayed open through Labor Day. Many of the night’s dinner guests are regularly seen at The Colony in Miami during the winter season. Notable guests included Debbie Bancroft, Wilbur & Hillary Geary Ross, Annelise Peterson, Christian Leone, Kim Heirston, Bob Colacello, Steven Stolman, Catherine Carey, and Kenneth & Maria Fishel. The Colony Hotel’s owners, Andrew & Sarah Wetenhall, and Christie’s president, Bonnie Brennan, co-hosted the event. Swifty’s owner, Robert Caravaggi, and core staff from The Colony Hotel attended. The dinner for the luminaries was a highlight of the summer season with over-the-top-décor representing all things The Colony. The hotel is known for its unique, hand-painted de Gournay wallpaper with hues of pink and green foliage and
tropical fauna. Johnny Brown, the monkey mascot that holds a pink Colony flag was represented at the launch. A profusion of tropical flowers complemented the colorful summer attire of the guests. It really was a home away from home for those in the know when it comes to all things The Colony Hotel. The large outdoor area was filled with whimsical, signature accents from Palm Beach, including chartreuse cabana chaises, scalloped umbrellas, a paddle board with a sea grape motif, palm trees, and a signature pink-and-green beach buggy. Courses provided by Swifty’s included a Hamptons farm stand salad, artisanal breads, Swifty’s special bacon-wrapped meatloaf, crab cakes, and Florida key lime pie. Rosé Côtes de Provence and Champagne À L’EST were provided by Out East. The Colony Hotel thecolonyhotel.com @thecolonypalmbeach Social Life
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THE COLONY HOTEL HOSTS AN EVENING AT CHRISTIE’S SOUTHAMPTON
1. Annelise Peterson Christian Leone 2. Mark Gilbertson Hilary Geary Ross Wilbur Ross 3. Debbie Bancroft Amy Hoadley 4. Steven Stolman Rolise Rachel 5. Alex Papachristidis Julia Amory 6. Bob Colacelo Cathy Busch 7. Kim Heirston 8. John Burman Bonnie Brennan 9. Adam Munder Elisabeth Munder
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All images thanks to BFA
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S O C I A L S A FA R I HOLIDAY HIGHLIGHTS
By R. Couri Hay with Photography by Patrick McMullan
James Bond No Time to Die Daniel Craig said, “I’d rather slash my wrists” than do a fifth Bond film. After seeing his final outing in No Time to Die, it might not have been such a bad idea as this was not a high point in 007’s career. The film co-stars Rami Malek as the uber villain and Lashana Lynch, Léa Seydoux, and Ana de Armas as the sexy Bond girls. Billie Eilish sings the film’s sluggish theme song. After the movie’s producers twisted Craig’s arm Lashana Lynch, Daniel Craig, Léa Seydoux with tens of millions of dollars and a piece of the profits, he signed on and said of the formidable franchise, “It was there before me, and it will be there after me. I’ve had a chance to be part of all of this, and if you can’t get it up for a Bond movie as an actor, what can you get it up for?” Craig will open in Macbeth on Broadway, starting March 29, 2022. Penelope Cruz
NY Film Festival Film
The stars came out for the 59th edition of the New York Film Festival, which was founded by Richard Roud and Amos Vogel. An annual bellwether of the state of cinema that has shaped film culture since 1963, the festival continues an enduring tradition of introducing audiences to bold and remarkable works from celebrated filmmakers as well as fresh new talent. The festival showed 32 films over two weeks, including Joel Coen’s The Tragedy of Macbeth, an inventive visualization of the Shakespearean play; Pedro Almodóvar’s Parallel Mothers, full of suspense and twisting plot lines; and new films by Celine Sciamma, Jane Campion, Jonas Carpignano, Nadav Lapid, and Radu Jude. Corporate supporters included HBO, Netflix, Vanity Fair, Hearst, Citi, Campari, Variety, Radeberger Pilsner, and Turner Classic Movies. Welcome back to the movies. filmlinc.org
Casa Cipriani
James Bond would feel right at home at NYC’s new and ultrachic private club Casa Cipriani in the Battery Maritime Building at
10 South Street. The club’s lux décor by Thierry Despont was inspired by the legendary 1930s ocean liner SS Normandie and features the sexiest live music room of the land. The building’s redesign is rumored to have set Giuseppe Cipriani and his son Maggio back $500 million; and I’m not talking lira. Drew Barrymore, John Legend, Chrissy Teigen, Usher, Alicia Keys, Swizz Beatz, and other international types have all been spotted in the bar, dining room, and gym. The initiation fee is under $1K, and the yearly dues are $3,500. The 125-year-old Beaux-Arts ferry building also has a ballroom that seats 800 and 47 hotel rooms starting at $1,000 a night and up to $9,000 for the presidential suite. The elegant space has killer views of the Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty. Julian Schnabel did a series of enormous paintings for the event space that is available for rent if you’re willing to cough up a suitcase full of cash à la 007. Currently, the club has 1,500 members but will ultimately accommodate 4,000. Casa is already giving Zero Bond and Soho House a run for its euros. Annabel’s, the popular London club is due to open its doors in a townhouse on East 61st Street in 2022. I can wait if you can. casacipriani.com Don Lemon, Luann de Lesseps
God’s Love We Deliver Golden Heart Awards
Blaine Trump, one of the world’s leading CEOs of good works, along with Neil Patrick Harris & David Burtka, Michael Kors, Iman, Aerin Lauder, Sarah Paulson, Judith Light, Lizzie & Jonathan Tisch, and others of that ilk and stripe co-chaired the God’s Love We Deliver 15th Annual Golden Heart Awards — always one of the season’s top events. Nicky Hilton Rothschild
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The benefit honored Billy Porter and Don Lemon and featured stellar performances by Cyndi Lauper and Dionne Warwick. In the mix were Rachel Brosnahan, Naomi Watts, Rose Byrne, Rachel Zegler, Nicky Hilton Rothschild, Jane Krakowski, Ariana DeBose, Tommy Dorfman, Sara Ramirez, Huma Abedin, Tony Leung, Liam Kelly, and Kyla Ramsey. In honor of Michael Kors’s 40th anniversary in the business, Anna Wintour gave him a surprise tribute, which was followed by a Broadway Inspirational Voices performance. God’s Love We Deliver is the leading provider of medically tailored meals for individuals living with serious illness. glwd.org
and said, “To Carolina Herrera, the queen of New York. The empress of elegance, I dedicate this award to you. I have only been the caretaker of the magical house you have built.” Among those applauding were Patricia Lansing, Fern Mallis, Indre Rockefeller, Stacey Bendet Eisner, Nicole Miller, Ramy Brook, Gillian Hearst, Victor dE Souza, B Michael, John Paul Jang, Young Emperors, and Ramona Singer. This year’s presenting sponsor was Nordstrom; the event was co-chaired by Jeffery Fowler and Emilie Rubinfeld. fitnyc.edu Jean Shafiroff
Central Park Conservatory 40th Anniversary Gala:
Mazdack Rassi, Diane Kruger, Hugh Dancy, Claire Danes, Zanna Roberts Rassi, Laverne Cox, Georgina Bloomberg, Deborah Roberts
NYC Ballet Fashion Gala
The stars were out for the ninth edition of New York City’s fall fashion gala at Lincoln Center. Although the benefit raised over $2.5 million, the new ballets by choreographers Sidra Bell and Andrea Miller and costumes by designers Christopher John Rogers and Esteban Cortázar disappointed. Luckily for the audience, the night opened with a stunning performance of Jerome Robbins’s classic Glass Pieces. The brilliant work was choreographed in 1983 and set to an inspiring score by Philip Glass; the beautiful jewel-toned costumes showed the dancers’ bodies and movements to great advantage and saved the night. The evening’s co-chairs included Carole Crist Sarah Jessica Parker (who was delayed on set of the Sex And The City reboot and failed to appear), Dove Cameron, and Michael Bloomberg. A highlight of the evening was the Ruinart reception, arguably the finest blanc de blanc Champagne extant. nycballet.org
The Museum at FIT (MFIT) Couture Council Luncheon
Carolina Herrera, Wes Gordon
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Designer Wes Gordon, the creative director of Carolina Herrera, was honored at MFIT’s Couture Council Luncheon at Casa Cipriani. The benefit, attended by the city’s most fashionable ladies, raised nearly $700,000. MFIT director and chief curator, Dr. Valerie Steele, introduced Gordon, who accepted his award
Michael Bloomberg and Diana Taylor led the perfumed pack to the Conservatory Garden in Central Park to celebrate the organization’s 40th Sylvester Miniter, Lilah Ramzi, anniversary. The Gillian Miniter, Zach Weiss festive evening included dinner and dancing to commemorate the transformation and restoration of the park. The event, which was supported by City National Bank, raised $2.8 million to keep the park in pristine condition. The celebration highlighted the Conservancy’s capstone project to re-envision the Lasker Rink and Lasker Pool near the Harlem Meer. The night honored Judy & Russ Carson, Kate & Andrew Davis, Alice Gottesman, and Kitty Patterson & Tom Kempner. Cutting the rug were Hilary Geary Ross & Wilbur Ross, Martha Stewart, Peter Marino, Christine & Stephen Schwarzman, Fiona & Eric Rudin, Patti Harris, Anne & Bill Harrison, Tracey & Craig Huff, Sharon & Bill Jacob, Didi & Oscar Schafer, Suzy Welch, and the president of the Central Park Conservancy, Betsy Smith. centralparknyc.org
R. Couri Hay, Janna Bullock
William Jarosak, Dr. Marie Hayag
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KAREN MAY JULIA WELD
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MARIE-NOELLE PIERCE KATHERINE BIRCH
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AMERICAN BALLET THEATRE FALL GALA 2021
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HOT SHOTS
TRI-COUNTY ANIMAL RESCUE Animal advocates Andrea Stark, Janna Bullock, Adrien Arpel, and Jean Shafiroff co-hosted a lunch for the Tri-County Animal Rescue, a nonprofit animal shelter working to prevent the killing of over 170,000 homeless pets in Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade counties every year. Sir Darius Brown, a 14-yearold who creates stylish bow ties to help pups look their best while looking for their forever homes, received the Young Leadership Award at Stark’s NYC penthouse. Darius’s Paw-Some Mission has the goal of visiting shelters in all 50 states. tricountyanimalrescue.com
YM/WREA & REBUILDING TOGETHER Rebuilding Together New York City, whose supporters include Chelsea Clinton, joined forces with the YM/WREA (Young Men’s/ Women’s Real Estate Association of New York) for their first in-person volunteer event since the pandemic. Thirty men and women helped to rehabilitate the Brooklyn Community Services O’Dwyer Gardens Community Center in Coney Island. The center helps children and young adults learn and grow through various educational programs. ymwrea.org
LINJIE DENG AT CARLTON FINE ARTS Charles Saffati and his son Morris Saffati of Carlton Fine Arts are famous for selling work ranging from Andy Warhol and Basquiat to Chagall and Mr. Brainwash at their elegant three-floor Madison Avenue gallery. This spring they introduced Linjie Deng, an emerging Chinese Conceptual artist, to their varied roster. They are showing Deng’s critically acclaimed pieces created in response to both the pandemic and the recent attacks on the Asian community throughout the country. The new show, Asian Art Spa, features Pop Art interpretations of Hello Kitty and pandas. carltonfa.com
JEAN SHAFIROFF, JANNA BULLOCK, ANDREA STARK
SAYO KAMARA, RYAN LEE
LIBBIE MUGRABI
SIR DARIUS BROWN, HAPPY, WENDY DIAMOND
CAROLINE MERCK, LAUREN CALANDRIELLO, LAURA JACKSON
LINJIE DENG
PRINCE DIMITRI OF YUGOSLAVIA, LILIANA CAVENDISH
SAMANTHA FETHKE, MAHER BATA
PETER THOMAS ROTH
Equus Collection: Pavé
Stone Source is a design-driven company with a curated selection of the world’s finest natural stone and tile including, porcelain, ceramic and glass.
Equus Collection Stone Source Original, Equus, captures the powerful elegance and kinetic energy of nature’s most noble beast, the horse. The subdued color palettes undulate like the natural beat of the rise and fall of this great animal’s stride. Experience Equus on our website and on Instagram
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NEW YORK 215 PARK AVE. SOUTH NEW YORK, NY 10003 212.979.6400
EAST HAMPTON 34 PARK PLACE EAST HAMPTON, NY 11937 631.324.7497
NEW JERSEY 350 STARKE RD. CARLSTADT, NJ 07072 201.549.7400
HOT SHOTS
ACTRESS & AUTHOR LEESA ROWLAND HOSTS “WILD WILD WEST” PARTY
YOUNG FRIENDS OF SAVE VENICE HOST “MURANO NIGHTS” DINNER
ICONIC CHUCK’S VINTAGE CELEBRATED NYC FLAGSHIP RETAIL STORE DEBUT
Actress and author Leesa Rowland hosted her “Wild Wild West” party at a private residence in New York City. Guests wore their best cowboy/cowgirl classic salooninspired costumes while enjoying cocktails and dancing to live music. A beautiful sitdown dinner was served by the vegan caterer City Roots. Fashion designer Marc Bouwer designed Leesa’s beautiful red dress. Photos courtesy of Patrick McMullan
Casey Kohlberg, Lizzie Asher, and the Young Friends of Save Venice hosted Murano Nights, an intimate dinner at Casa Cipriani to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Save Venice. The dinner’s attendees included 50 of Save Venice’s fashionable younger supporters from art and fashion to film and media for a cocktail hour, ballet performance by dancers from the Brooklyn Ballet, and dinner. Photos courtesy of BFA/Madison Voelkel
The iconic California-based Chuck’s Vintage has brought classic style to Manhattan with a grand celebration honoring the legacy of the brand. VIP attendees at a private party at Classic Cars of Manhattan enjoyed a night of old-school fun and modern twists that mixed the time-honored vibes of the brand with edgy New York City fashion tones. DJ Lee Kalt and vocalist Xandra K provided special entertainment. Photos courtesy of Getty Images
LEESA ROWLAND
LIZZIE ASHER, CASEY KOHLBERG, MERCEDES DE GUARDIOLA
VINNIE CAMMARATA
NICOLE NOONAN, STEVEN KNOBEL
KATIE GRAY, LIZZIE ASHER, PATINA MILLER
LILLIE HEINTZ, TRISTAN REYNOLDS, TAYLOR BURKHARDT
CASEY KOHLBERG, SERENA GOH
YASMEEN GUMBS-BREAKENRIDGE
JOHAN WAHLSTROM, DARA SOWELL
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JAMES GIUGLIANO NEST SEEKERS INTERNATIONAL’S OUTSTANDING SALESPERSON By Havi Rothschild
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earching for a new home or selling your current home can be a complicated and exhausting experience. It’s absolutely essential to find a real estate agent who is deeply involved in the business and loves what they do. Meet Nest Seekers International’s rising star. Born and raised in Southampton, James Giugliano understands firsthand the value, people, and spirit of the Hamptons. It takes an experienced hometown resident to navigate the landscape of the everchanging housing market. James’s experience in business planning, marketing, and negotiation will help make your buying and selling experience stress-free. His goal is to minimize your aggravation while delivering your expectations. Whether you’re a prospective buyer or seller, James will listen to your needs to ensure a successful outcome. His intimate knowledge of the market will save you, the homeowner or potential homeowner, time and money. Sales is really about relationships, and understanding each client’s goals and dreams is the best way to connect each client with the perfect property. No question you have will go unanswered. James is ready and willing to help you with all of your needs and looks forward to working hand in hand with you through a successful and happy experience.
37 GEORGICA ROAD, EAST HAMPTON $13,900,000 Located in the Georgica Estate section of East Hampton Village, this luxurious gated estate of 9,000+ square feet offers so much more than just its prime location. Approximately one mile from Main Street or half of a mile from ocean beaches, this estate offers all you could wish for in a Hamptons home! Nest Seekers International James Giugliano Licensed Real Estate Salesperson 20 Main Street, Southampton jamesg@nestseekers.com 631.456.3567 Social Life
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J.B. ANDREASSI NEST SEEKERS INTERNATIONAL’S TOP SALESPERSON By Laura Rothchild
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orn to one of the founding fathers of Hamptons luxury residential development, J.B. Andreassi was exposed to and acquired a deep passion for designing and building from an early age. His father has built a multitude of homes since the early 1990s. He also designed and built Southampton Youth Services, Rogers Memorial Library, and other well-known commercial projects in the Hamptons and throughout Long Island. With Nest Seekers International since 2018, J.B. has sold or put into contract 24 properties ranging from $800K to $32MM, in under three years. He is a part of the TV series Selling the Hamptons that will premiere on Discovery Plus and HGTV in early 2022. He is co-owner in a development company that oversees commercial, institutional, and residential properties in the Hamptons and on Long Island. In J.B.’s earlier career, he worked for four years at the National Hockey League, responsible for tens of millions of dollars of corporate partnership assets. He left in 2016 to join the Related Management Group. After a successful year and a half with Related Management Group, he pursued his desire to help people make their dream of being a Hamptons homeowner a reality and joined Nest Seekers International. One of his current listings is below. SocialLifeMagazine.com
885 SEVEN PONDS TOWD ROAD, SOUTHAMPTON $6,395,000 This Southampton new construction comes in at just under 7,400 square feet. This property, with soon-to-be-6 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms, is exploding with potential. Two stunning fireplaces, one gas and one wood, allow for all to be satisfied. A home theater and fitness center can keep everyone busy. And with the potential for tennis in either the front or back of the property this home becomes the whole package. With top-of-the-line finishes, every showing will end in satisfaction. Nest Seekers International J.B. Andreassi Licensed Real Estate Salesperson 20 Main Street, Southampton jbandreassi@nestseekers.com 631.875.6323
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KEY WEST, FLORIDA HOME TO HEMINGWAY & CALVIN KLEIN By R. Couri Hay
R. Couri Hay is the travel editor and society columnist for this magazine. Couri began his career at Andy Warhol’s Interview and he wrote for Town & Country and People. Couri also appears on CNN, PBS, FOX and VH1 commenting on Hollywood. He can currently be seen on Showtimes new series Gossip and throughout the CNN film Halston. He lives in NYC and Southampton and is the CEO of his own PR firm.
Mel Fisher’s Gold Coins
PIRATES & TREASURE The jet set flocks to Miami and Palm Beach during the winter season, but don’t overlook Key West, surrounded by sparking blue water with charm to spare. This picturesque island city is especially interesting if you’re a history buff, or have kids who like shipwrecks, buried treasure, and running around 19th-century forts. I was there for Race World Offshore Key West Championships, when high-speed powerboats race around the harbor at speeds of up to 140 mile per hour. Massive yachts surround the area, and I was on one that gave me an up-close view. I stayed at Pier House and my balcony also faced all the action. This hotel has the perfect address in the center of town, next to Duval Street, Key West’s main drag. Walking in this area, you see many Victorian mansions, and you can walk to most of the important historical attractions. Or better yet, rent a classic Victorian and bring friends or the family for a fun trip. Key West was controlled throughout the years by Spain,
Britain, and Cuba and visited by Bahamians and pirates at times, until finally, in 1822, the United States claimed it as part of Florida. JIMMY BUFFETT’S MARGARITAVILLE Over the years its Victorian charms attracted a who’s who of renowned residents, the most famous of which was Ernest Hemingway, whose home is now a museum. Many other literary lions have made their homes in Key West, including the poets Robert Frost and Wallace Stevens and the playwright Tennessee Williams. Meg Cabot, whose The Princess Diaries series of books were adapted into movies starring Anne Hathaway, is also a resident. Other famous folks who have called Key West home include President Harry S. Truman, who wintered there while in office; the fashion designer Calvin Klein; and of course, Jimmy Buffett, who rose to musical fame while living in Key West and established his Margaritaville empire there. Social Life
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Calvin Klein’s Home
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Ernest Hemingway’s Home
WHAT TO DO IN KEY WEST
THE LITTLE WHITE HOUSE The Little White House was built in 1890 as naval command headquarters and earned its current name when President Harry S. Truman used the place as his winter home from 1946 through 1952. In 1911 it had been turned into a single-family dwelling, and President William H. Taft stayed there in 1912, on his way to Panama to view the Panama Canal during its construction. Thomas Edison stayed in the house during WWI, helping the U.S. Navy to develop underwater weapons. After Truman’s visits, Presidents Dwight Eisenhower and John F. Kennedy stayed in the house and held important meetings with world leaders there. Later, Presidents Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton stayed at the property, and
the late General Colin Powell held peace talks there when he was Secretary of State. The museum displays Truman memorabilia in the rooms where he and his wife, Bess Truman, lived, including his famous “The Buck Stops Here” desk sign. trumanlittlewhitehouse.org ERNEST HEMINGWAY’S HOME Ernest Hemingway left Paris in 1928, and he and his second wife, Pauline, began to spend winters in Key West not long after. In 1931 Pauline’s uncle bought the couple this Spanishstyle walled compound where the future Nobel Prize winner penned works, including The Snows of Kilimanjaro, Green Hills of Africa, and the novel To Have and Have Not. The author lived in the house between travels from 1931 until 1938, and his ex-wife Pauline remained there until her death in 1961. Social Life
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Fort Zachary Taylor
Now a museum and National Historic Landmark, it houses Hemingway memorabilia, including his typewriter, his ironframed bed, and a urinal/fountain he brought home from Sloppy Joe’s bar. Roaming the grounds are more than 40 cats, many of them six-toed descendants of Snow White, a white six-toed feline given to Papa Hemingway by a ship’s caption. hemingwayhome.com MEL FISHER’S TREASURE MUSEUM Mel Fisher was a treasure hunter whose most famous find was the Nuestra Señora de Atocha, a Spanish galleon that sank in 1622. Fisher’s company recovered $450 million worth of treasure, including 40 tons of gold and silver, over 100,000 Spanish coins knowns as “pieces of eight,” Colombian emeralds, and other valuable artifacts. melfisher.com SocialLifeMagazine.com
FORT ZACHARY TAYLOR A visit to Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is a great way to spend the day, roaming the walkways and scaling the walls of the fort, a beautiful relic dating from 1845. Considered a hidden gem of Key West, the site, named for President Zachary Taylor and known to locals as “Fort Zach,” was active in the Civil War, in which Key West, as a U.S. Naval base, sided with Northern abolitionists, unlike the rest of the South. Fort Zachary State Park also includes the town’s best beach. This may sound odd for an island, but Key West is not known for its beaches; this one is at the point where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Gulf of Mexico, offering pristine water and colorful reefs perfect for snorkeling. Have a picnic at one of the shaded areas on the beach and watch the famous sunset over the western shore. floridastateparks.org
JETSETTER STYLE CHÂTEAU EZA ÈZE, FRANCE By Gregory DelliCarpini Jr. Photography by Lorenzo Vinti
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hâteau Eza, located in the Côte d’Azur region of France, is one of those mystical hotels that truly transports you to another time and place. Just a ten-minute drive from Nice, Château Eza is a must-see while visiting the French Riviera. To reach the property, you traverse a labyrinth of stone in the ancient village of Èze. Arriving to the hotel feels as though you are going back in time. When you reach your super-private and impeccably designed room, you’ll discover some of the most breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The rooms are ac-
tually spread out in different buildings around the original château, and many are accessed by their very own stone staircase. The property was built 400 years ago within the ancient walls of the 9th-century village of Èze, by a prince seeking inspiration. On a boat trip along the Mediterranean with his father, King Gustaf of Sweden, Prince Wilhelm of Sweden and Norway was captivated by the villlage. Three years later, he bought a cluster of homes and created Château Eza. This new home proved to be a much-needed oasis for Wilhelm, who left his royal duties to pursue his love for writing. Until 1976 it was known as The Prince of Sweden’s Castle. Though the name changed, many guests still seek rest and inspiration here just as the prince did. While you are staying at the former Prince of Sweden’s castle, you can dine with the most mesmerizing views of the French Riviera while being served beautifully made French and Mediterranean cuisine. The Michelin-starred chef Axel Wagner crafted a menu that is wonderfully fragrant, exploratory, and a reflection of the local market. Château Eza is dazzling and romantic. While staying at this property, you will feel as though you are living in a modern-day fairytale. For more information about the hotel and the region, visit chateaueza.com/en and cotedazurfrance.fr/en Social Life
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HOTEL BOSCOLO NICE, FRANCE By Gregory DelliCarpini Jr. Photography by Lorenzo Vinti
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erfectly situated on the central boulevard of Nice, the Hotel Boscolo is a true pearl in the Côte d’Azur region of France. Just a five-minute walk from the charming Old Town of Nice and the Mediterranean Sea, this property is perfect for relaxation and exploration. Inside this Belle Époque creation, modern design and classic accents merge. Upon entering you are greeted with a dramatic glass-ceilinged atrium filled with impressive bronze sculptures. The dream-like white of the façade is continued everywhere in the hotel, from the marble-floored lobby, to the gorgeously decorated bedrooms. The cuisine also impresses. Bclub Rooftop terrace, where you can have everything from summertime lunches to crisp evening aperitifs, is decorated with chic navy-and-white striped sofas and umbrellas. Sit by the pool and enjoy 360-degree views of Nice. The ground-floor Genesi bar area also serves delicious dinner options. Be sure to take advantage of the delightful spa offerings located beneath the hotel. Explore a wide range of treatments from body wraps to massages and facials that use Biologique SocialLifeMagazine.com
Recherche beauty products. After your treatment, you can relax in the sauna or Turkish bath. You can also enjoy the multisensory showers and the subterranean indoor pool with massaging water jets. If you’re craving the beach, as many of us do in the summer months, you can take advantage of the unique partnership the hotel has with Ruhl Plage’s private beach and restaurant, just a seven-minute walk from the property. For more information about the hotel and the region, visit boscolocollection.com/nice and cotedazurfrance.fr/en
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NAYA TRAVELER CURATED JOURNEYS By Havi Rothschild Photography Courtesy of Naya Traveler
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ravel company Naya Traveler has launched The Wellness Edition in its Best of Bubble Travel portfolio, featuring journeys that focus on rejuvenating the mind, body, and soul. Naya Traveler has scoured the world in search of the best places to take your bubble safely on the road. Designed for multigenerational families, groups of friends, or couples, these trips are guaranteed to bring back the joys of travel, while taking into account every necessary and extraordinary safety measure. Naya Traveler’s journeys to off-the-beaten-path locales are designed with natural immersion, social distancing, and deep connection in mind. All itineraries include luxury accommodations; all daily activities and excursions with private, English-speaking hosts and expert guides; some meals; all applicable tourism fees and taxes (airfare not included).
HERE IS A SNEAK PEEK AT ONE OF NAYA’S WANDERLUST ADVENTURES:
UTAH, U.S.A For the Desert Dwellers: Bathe your soul in the silence and majesty of Canyon Country. With the highest concentration of national parks in America, the Colorado Plateau offers endless opportunities to explore the likes of Grand Canyon (AZ), Bryce Canyon (UT), and Zion National Park (UT) by air, by car, and on foot. For those looking to restore and rebalance, it is the perfect place to delve into the ancient healing traditions of the Navajo, drawing on the elements of earth, wind, fire, and water. Social Life
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HIGHLIGHTS A range of one-of-a-kind experiences that bring you closer to the culture and history of the Navajo people. • Navajo-guided tours of the slot canyons and Monument Valley Tribal Park to powerful storytelling sessions and ritual dances by a fire. • Hiking and climbing: Graded by difficulty, guided hikes offer guests the opportunity to discover the geological wonders of the landscape. • Private boat tours: Navigate the vast reservoir of Lake Powell by kayak, take a stand-up paddleboard across the glassy waters, or explore from the comfort of a luxury private boat. • Horseback riding: Explore the sweeping Utah desert with seasoned wranglers, riding trails available both in the area and beyond. More challenging rides include ridge-top hacks high above the maze of ridges and canyons. • Private air tours: Flying over this incredible landscape — by plane, helicopter, or on a sunrise balloon trip — is an inspiring way to discover the breadth of the backcountry. Working closely with the area’s best pilots, you’ll experience the awe-inspiring scale of Canyon Country from on high. • Native Wellness: Hózhó healing, relaxing massages, restorative therapies, yoga practice, and grounding rituals. SocialLifeMagazine.com
STAY AT AMANGIRI Amangiri blends into untouched red-rock country, claiming 600 acres of the vast and majestic Colorado Plateau, the original Wild West. In this desert landscape of canyons, mesas, ridges, and gorges, the modernist suites of Amangiri, and the tented pavilions of Camp Sarika offer an inspiring welcome to one of the world’s most dramatic, secluded settings. Spacious and with clean lines and natural materials, the suites reflect the luminous qualities of the surrounding Utah desert. Accommodation design features include white stone floors, concrete walls, natural timbers, and fittings in blackened steel. Each suite has an outdoor lounge and fireplace with expansive desert views, while some feature a private pool or roof terrace. For more space and privacy, the Mesa Homes offer consummate privacy just minutes from the resort, secluded by a rock escarpment and surrounded by 600 acres. New flexible booking conditions allow for rebooking or postponing your trip free of charge should circumstances change.
Naya Traveler nayatraveler.com info@nayatraveler.com 301.358.5096
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A CONVERSATION WITH JULES TRUMP, DEVELOPER OF THE ESTATES AT ACQUALINA By Lara Lisbon
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he Acqualina Brand is an iconic name that is transforming the South Florida skyline forever with a residential enclave whose beauty, luxury, and service place it in a class of its own worldwide. Tell us about The Estates at Acqualina. From the beginning, our vision for The Estates at Acqualina has been to create a unique lifestyle that will set it apart from the rest of the world. Quite simply, we have set out to create the world’s finest residences. The Estates at Acqualina, a $1.8-billion residential development located in Miami’s Sunny Isles Beach, will feature 245 estates in the sky in two, 50-story towers. Each residence will be delivered furniture-ready, and equipped with the finest appliances, imported stone countertops, and smart-home technology. The master suites will have his-and-her bathroom suites, ocean-view showers, and elaborate his-and-her dressing rooms. Why did you decide to choose Karl Lagerfeld, a fashion designer, as a design partner? Actually, Mr. Lagerfeld was more than just a fashion designer for the world’s most prestigious labels — Chanel and Fendi
— or even his own labels. He was also an artist, photographer, filmmaker . . . there were truly no limits to his creativity. Everything he touched benefitted from his brilliant point of view. He created the ultimate tableau to arouse a sense of arrival for every one of our residents and the guests they have visit. We are thrilled that we will unveil his works-of-art lobbies in early 2022. Tell us about the service. The legendary service by Acqualina Resort, TripAdvisor’s No. 1 beachfront resort in the United States, ensures that The Estates delivers ultimate perfection and a unique experience on every level. We provide a great living experience, trust, and tremendous value and the world’s finest residential and resort community. Is there anything else our readers should know about The Estates? The popular Avra Estiatorio of New York and Beverly Hills will be opening a spectacular new restaurant overlooking the beach at The Estates at Acqualina. Located inside Villa Acqualina, a Mediterranean-inspired villa that’s the heart of The Estates, Avra Estiatorio will be a European-inspired restaurant and urban oasis for residents, visitors, and locals to relish. In addition to Avra, Villa Acqualina, situated between the North and South Towers, will feature 45,000 square feet of amenities, including a health and fitness sanctuary called AcquaFit, and Circus Maximus, an entire floor of magical amenities that include an ice skating rink, bowling lanes, a golf simulator, a Formula One simulator, a movie theater, and a Wall Street Traders’ Club room. With expansive beachfront acreage located between The Estates and the Atlantic Ocean, residents will also enjoy access to the ultimate playground for adults, families, and children. There will be walking trails, game areas, meditation zones, and places where friends and families join in the daily and nightly enjoyment of life! estatesatacqualina.com acqualinaresort.com Social Life
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VERSANTE HOTEL VANCOUVER’S NEW ‘IT’ HOTEL By Lillian Langtry
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fter a tumultuous year, countless Americans are eager to start exploring the world again. With no border restrictions for U.S. citizens traveling to Canada, the time has never been better to discover (or rediscover) Greater Vancouver — a region beloved around the globe for its stunning natural beauty, world-class dining and recreation, multicultural attractions, and much more. The upcoming Christmas season as well as Chinese New Year in February make venturing to this renowned metropolitan destination even more attractive. Whether for pleasure, business, or as part of a long-overdue reunion with family and friends, the most exciting accommodation in Greater Vancouver is Versante Hotel — the region’s newest luxury boutique hotel. Highly anticipated by international visitors and residents alike, Versante proudly opened its doors to the public in July of this year. Located in the city of Richmond — 20 minutes by car from downtown Vancouver and mere minutes from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) — every detail at Versante has been carefully considered, from leading-edge technology to vibrantly colorful interior design. Versante Hotel boasts 100 guestrooms and suites in five bold décor themes (developed by Vancouver-based CHIL Interior Design), each evoking a distinct personality. Wall coverings, fabric selections, and furniture colors were customized to create an immersive experience within each room. In addition to either two luxury queens or one king-size bed, each room features contactless check-in/-out and controls for room entry and lighting via the Versante app. The app also allows for SocialLifeMagazine.com
contactless room-service ordering as well as connecting with the Versante guest-services team. State-of-the-art MirrorTM workout technology is in select suites. Spa-like bathrooms feature the Dyson Supersonic hair dryer, large rainforest shower, a heated floor, and, in most guestrooms and all suites, a freestanding soaker tub. Bath amenities are by Red Flower, a New York City brand whose acclaimed bath and beauty products are biodegradable, vegan, and cruelty-free. Other highlights include energy-efficient View Smart autotinting windows, floor-to-ceiling windows, pet-friendly spaces, and expansive mountain and river views. Elsewhere on the property, Versante offers a 24-hour fitness facility with Peloton bikes and Life Fitness cardio equipment; a serene rooftop terrace with saltwater pool and hot tub; 5,500 square feet of function space for meetings and events; and an array of new dining concepts, including Bruno. Led by a team of industry veterans, Bruno boasts family-style share plates and destination-inspired craft cocktails, taking guests on a culinary journey featuring the best of British Columbia. The city of Richmond was cited by the New York Times as having the best Asian food in North America — so you can discover more culinary experiences just steps away. Worldclass shopping, golf, recreation, gaming, and much more are also close by. Versante Hotel versantehotel.com
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CONSERVATION THROUGH EXPLORATION WITH EXPLORA IN PATAGONIA By Andrea Schnoor
Explora El Chaltén
The Chilean expedition company Explora is a pioneer in exploration tourism in South America, with hotels and nomadic expeditions in Chile, Peru, Bolivia, and Argentina. The first Explora lodge was Explora Torres del Paine set smack in the middle of the famed National Park. For almost 30 years, Explora has taken travelers to the most remote territories of the continent, offering guide-led explorations on foot, horseback, catamaran, bike, e-bike, and passenger van. At the end of a deeply fulfilling day in the elements, a sleek Explora hotel welcomes guests with gourmet meals, stellar local wines, spa treatments and other relaxing comforts, and, perhaps most important, camaraderie with fellow travelers. A strong conservation focus on protecting land in perpetuity represents the company’s commitment to an expanded role in caring for the territories it has long led guests to explore. This is now playing out in Patagonia, a region shared by Chile and Argentina at the southern tip of the continent, most notable for its dramatic and remarkably photogenic mountains. In line with Explora’s new caretaking role, the company was recently awarded the contract to manage ecotourism services in Patagonia National Park in the Aysén Region of Chile. Explora manages all concessions and ticketing of the 750,000-acre park and will operate the new 10-room lodge (débuting December 2021), in the Chacabuco Valley a region once transited by ancestral hunters, now newly designated Explora Patagonia National Park.
Yet another Explora hotel, the 20-room Explora El Chaltén, is set to début this December as well. The newest address for outdoor enthusiasts is located within Los Huemules Natural Reserve, a private 14,300-acre spread devoted to the preservation of native flora and fauna in the hushed heart of the Electrico Valley at the entrance to the Southern Patagonian Ice Field (Campo de Hielo Sur). Surrounded by ancient forests, rushing rivers, and towering peaks, Explora El Chaltén is just 10 miles from the town of El Chaltén, Argentina, within a natural amphitheater of rock, mountains, and ice, providing stunning and near-endless expanses for travelers to get out, get moving, explore deeply, and make lasting memories. As at every Explora destination, there will be many bespoke opportunities for all of the above, with 30 explorations mapped and designed by the company’s guides for guests of all fitness and skill levels to engage in immersive outdoor activities that excite all the senses, including hiking, overland trips, rock climbing, and even ice hiking. All three Explora hotels in Patagonia can be combined into a circuit via Explora Connects, a convenient new service designed to bridge the mountainous distances between them. Adding to the company’s transfers by van, a new private charter service offers small-plane flights between Torres del Paine and Patagonia National Park in Chile. Twin-turboprop aircraft can transport up to six travelers and a crew of two in comfort between remote destinations otherwise lacking easy commercial connectivity. explora.com Social Life
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GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS PIKAIA LODGE By Inna DeSilva
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he Galápagos Islands, which have always been on my bucket list, practically sang me a siren song when I saw the photos from Pikaia Lodge. While everyone I knew went to Italy, France, and Greece the summer of ’21, I decided to go in another direction. I flew to Guayaquil, Ecuador, via Miami. And two days later boarded an Avianca short flight to the Galápagos airport on Baltra Island. The most inhabited of the 19 islands in the Galápagos chain is Isabela, but I headed to my dream hotel on Santa Cruz, the second largest island in the center of the archipelago and a short ferry ride from Baltra. Pikaia Lodge, which is the only five-star hotel on Santa Cruz, arranges for a VIP meet and greet. A friendly fellow was waiting for me on the tarmac as I exited the plane. He escorted me to a small VIP area with refreshments, where I waited while my luggage was searched for a second time because the islands are afraid of nonnative plants being smuggled in. Then Sofia, a lovely hotel employee, accompanied me on the one-hour drive to the hotel. By the time I arrived at the hotel, I was ready for a cocktail. The welcome passion fruit rum cocktail hit the spot. The hotel, at the edge of an extinct volcanic crater, is one of the most beautiful hotels I have ever seen.
The owner waited five years to receive his building permits and it took an additional five to complete the sustainable hotel. The hotel is dedicated to protecting the delicate ecosystem as well as promoting the welfare of the people. Guests are invited to plant trees, adding to
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the more than 11,000 trees that Pikaia Lodge has planted on Santa Cruz. Surrounded by 100 acres of working farmland, the topography reminded me of the Scottish Highlands and is perfect for long walks. There are only 14 rooms or suites in this elegantly sleek hotel. Each room has a private shaded terrace or balcony, floor-to-ceilingwindows, and a gorgeous panoramic view. When I went, during the South American cooler dry season, I awoke to a canopy of clouds and cool air, but by noon it was pool weather. The hotel owns a 105-foot yacht, and I was fortunate enough to spend ten hours on it exploring the other islands. One of the coolest things while cruising was snorkeling among abundant marine life, including sea lions. The hotel has a separate bar and one restaurant. The chef tried to accommodate all of my dietary restrictions. Service both at the restaurant and the front desk was outstanding. The hotel spa is magnificent with great views and a sauna. I had the shaman massage, which was one of the best massages I have ever had. The hotel includes both sea and land excursions in the price, which is quite convenient. If you find yourself booking a trip to this amazing place for Christmas or the New Year, please remember that the SocialLifeMagazine.com
islands are at the equator. Although the weather isn’t tropical, the sun is searing and it’s easy to get burned even with high SPF protection. I recommend a large, wide-brimmed hat. The islands are like a fever dream and frankly I wish I stayed at the hotel for seven nights instead of four. A week gives you time to explore by land and sea and spend two days by the pool admiring the view and reading a book. The flora and animal life are spectacular and abundant. It’s worth a trip to Puerto Ayora, the main town on Santa Cruz with restaurants and shops. Here you can visit The Charles Darwin Research Station. A short walk from Ayora’s center is Tortuga Bay, where you can see indigenous marine life and mangroves. Even though Pikaia Lodge is an exclusive boutique hotel, I suggest you bring your own warm robe because the temperature dips at night. Rooms have teapots, but tea lovers should bring their own favorite teas because the hotel’s selection is minimal. And snorkelers will be happy to have their own wet suit because the water can be cold. If you like an active vacation, you’ll be happy that you finally came to this magical place. pikaialodge.com
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FOOD & WINE
THE OPENING OF NUNZI’S CREATES THE HOTTEST “FARMINGDALE TO TABLE” DINING EXPERIENCE ON LONG ISLAND By Patrick Stevens
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family’s love for good food and good vibes has created what is destined to be the hottest new restaurant in Farmingdale, New York. Inspired by a grandfather’s passion for bringing people together at a table and a grandmother’s love for food is the launch of Nunzi’s. Owner and operator Michael Napolitano along with his brother, Vincent Jr, are out to prove that the incredible dishes made in the kitchen are only to be rivaled by the fantastic hospitality of Nunzi’s where everybody is treated like a VIP. Traditions and respect for the good ole days,’ are incorporated into a sleek and modern layout by renowned designer Derek Axelrod. “Here at Nunzis we plan on keeping my grandfather's traditions alive. You will eat with us, drink with us and laugh with us. Families and friends will all enjoy delicious food, fine drinks, good music and making memories,” states Napolitano. The modern take on classic dishes, highlights a menu that incorporates unique twists on old school Italian meals. With superb creations such as Grandmas Meatballs, Pappardelle & Lamb, Heritage Pork Chop, Pan Seared Scallops; and desserts like Cannoli Cream with Biscotti. Not to be missed are fascinating interpretations that will satisfy the cravings of adventurous foodies such as one-of-a-kind Limoncello Chicken Wings and a boisterous menu placement of a Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich. SocialLifeMagazine.com
What Chefs Anthony LoCastro and Marc Wisehart have collaborated to produce, are memorable moments on a plate. In fact, the outstanding time restaurant goers spend at Nunzi’s is considered an immersive cultural experience that warmly embraces the best minute of our lives. The moment guests walk in the door they are dazzled by a lively environment that is both edgy and delightful. Both Axelrod and the Napolitano’s worked in harmony to launch a soon to be Farmingdale institution. Nunzi’s seeks to enchant young and old alike by capturing a fresh, contemporary, and sleek look, with nods to the glamour and romance of classic Italian meals. Nunzi’s 125 Secatogue Avenue, Farmingdale nunzis1274.com @nunzisfarmingdale. HOURS: Monday & Wednesday: 5:00pm – 11:00pm Thursday & Friday: 5:00pm – 2:00am Saturday: 1:00pm – 2:00am Sunday: 1:00pm – 11:00pm Tuesday: Closed
FOOD & WINE
LIVE AXE NEW IN MANHATTAN, AN AXE-THROWING VENUE LIKE NO OTHER By Bennett Marcus
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ac Segal created Live Axe, a bar and lounge featuring axethrowing. It brings a sophisticated, New York City-level experience to this activity that has become popular across the United States. Manhattan’s first axe-throwing venue offers delicious food, including vegetarian and gluten-free options, an elevated cocktail menu in a Viking-themed bar, and chic, Instagramfriendly industrial design in its 10,000-square-foot Soho space. And no worries, it’s perfectly safe to hang out there — the axe throwing is relegated to cages and guided by highly trained “axperts” called cage captains. “We elevated the experience; it’s not just a barn or warehouse. The vibe is like going to a fancy lounge in Manhattan,” says Segal.
INNER VIKING Part of the experience is in doing something unique, something that most people haven’t done before. There’s a strong social aspect. “You get excited. You see people being tense, and then half an hour later, screaming and yelling and rooting for their friends, getting very competitive,” Segal explains. Because it’s a fairly new activity, not many people are really good at it, so everyone is competing at the same level, and you don’t feel intimidated. “Unlike, say, bowling, where there are people who have been playing since they were young,” says Segal. POPULAR WITH ALL AGES The proprietors have been amazed at the variety of people Live Axe has attracted. A few months ago, a woman held a 35th birthday party there. Not long after, the birthday girl’s mother celebrated her 76th at the venue with a bunch of female friends, all of similar age. “They had so much fun, these mature ladies,” Segal says, “that they said next time they’re bringing their husbands.” CORPORATE EVENTS Segal has been surprised at how popular the place has proven for corporate events. “People are branching out, and it’s fun for everybody,” he says. With different sections on different levels, parties can have their own space, or even their own floor, in which to mingle, munch, and imbibe near their dedicated cage. RAGE ROOM In the planning stages is a rage room, where patrons will be invited to break things. It could be plates or glassware, a computer, or anything that comes to mind. You choose your weapon, perhaps a sledgehammer, baseball bat, or, yes, an axe, and smash the object. Loud music may be your accompaniment, getting you even more keyed up — or more precisely: more gleefully vengeful. Live Axe 96 Lafayette Street 888.812.9060 liveaxe.com @liveaxe Social Life
FOOD & WINE
ELISABETTA’S RISTORANTE By Rolise Rachel
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ne of the newest additions to West Palm Beach is Elisabetta’s Ristorante, by Big Time Restaurant Group. This 10,000-square-foot restaurant with a multi-tiered balcony faces the Intercoastal Waterway just behind the Palm Beach Yacht Club. The restaurant’s size and location, and its delicious housemade dishes keep the 300-seat restaurant booked, and those who go do so frequently. Many of the restaurants on the strip don’t have the capacity to provide open-air seating on a large scale. Elisabetta’s has become a must for many diners and an anchor in the community. The restaurant’s interior was designed by Karen Hanlon along with Big Time partner and co-founder Todd Herbst. The décor includes vintage fixtures, terracotta floors, and Old World touches like brick walls, pewter accents, and wooden ceilings. The interior boasts two gold-tiled, beehive-shaped Neapolitan pizza ovens and a salumi bar faced with Calacatta marble. Guests pass a 19th-century gelato cart and indoor-outdoor bar if entering from the east side of the terrace, which also features a regulation bocce ball court, a 25-foot tall fireplace, an outside pizza oven, and four vintage gazebos. The restaurant features a 12-seat private dining room for a more intimate dining experience. SocialLifeMagazine.com
Elisabetta’s wine list boasts 400 vintages, a selection created by Ervin Machado, a Level 2 sommelier. The wines range from well-known to lesser known reds, whites, and proseccos and can please the most discerning wine aficiando. The wine menu also offers 70 wines by the glass. Elisabetta’s also cures its own salumis for delightful plated selections that can accompany generous portions of cheeses and seasonal fruits. The menu includes dozens of lunch and dinner options, ranging from traditional to artisanal pizzas, salads, and paninis as well as classic to gourmet entrées. Big Time Restaurant Group’s corporate culinary director, Lisabet Summa, and Elisabetta’s executive chef, Andris Salmanis, are responsible for the menu while the general manager, Drew Shane, is responsible for the day-to-day workings of the restaurant and staff. Elisabetta’s first restaurant opened on Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach in July 2019; the West Palm location in January 2020. The restaurant serves dinner seven nights a week, lunch Monday to Friday, and brunch (with unlimited mimosas, Aperol spritzes, bellinis, bloody marys, proseccos pops) on weekends. Elisabetta’s Ristorante 185 Banyan Boulevard, Palm Beach 32 East Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach elisabettas.com
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DR . KARYN GORDON EQUIP YOURSELF TO BE A CONFIDENT LEADER WITH THE THREE CHAIRS By Neil Charles
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orld-renowned leadership & relationship expert Dr. Karyn Gordon’s new book The Three Chairs: How Great Leaders Drive Communication, Performance, and Engagement is making a dazzling impact on people around the globe. The CEO and co-founder of DK Leadership has taken her riveting principles of how to develop powerful leaders at work and the home and turned them into what is destined to be a top-selling book. With the publication of the The Three Chairs comes the introduction on how to obtain a status that will forever change your existence for the better. “Working with Millennials, I realized that a lot of them struggled with self-esteem and confidence,” states Dr. Gordon. “I had dug into a lot of the research about the different power of attitudes and how that impacts decision making throughout the years. I really started seeing a pattern that comes down to three attitudes that people have. When you understand what these three attitudes are, you can start making educated guesses on how people make decisions, respond to situation based on what chair they sit in.” In the framework of the text, she explains how she came up with the three chairs as a powerful visual. Each chair represents the three different attitudes that everybody has in life. Which chair you're sitting in and which attitude you carry actually impacts your everyday behavior (communication; relationships / friendships; goal-setting; decision-making, stressmanagement / wellness). The three chairs are a representation of those three different attitudes and people can identify and connect too. The groundbreaking concept is not only helping shift dynamics for Millennials. It is also creating a positive work environment across multiple platforms. Three Chairs is a business book with an edge since it showcases applications to use in the office as equally as in your personal life. “It is such an easy concept for people to understand,” the leadership & relationship expert explains. “People can quickly SocialLifeMagazine.com
start seeing themselves where they sit and how it impacts their life. They can see themselves where their colleagues sit with their clients as much as with their spouses.” The book, which includes a special forward from Shark Tank Investor Robert Herjavec, has already received rave reviews from dozens of leaders within the industry. The engaging publication is now available online and will be a featured title on Amazon. For more information and to purchase The Three Chairs: How Great Leaders Drive Communication, Performance, and Engagement please visit: dkleadership.org/the-three-chairs-book
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