Sophisticated Living Las Vegas September/October 2019

ARCHITECTURE

|

INTERIOR DESIGN

|

CONSTRUCTION

|

FURNISHINGS

Blue Heron is a Las Vegas based Design/Build firm, founded with a commitment to exceptional architecture and outstanding quality of construction. Owner and founder, Tyler Jones has created an innovative architectural style called Vegas Modern™ in response to the climate, culture and lifestyle of his esteemed hometown. Many have imitated but there is only one original‌ Visit our brand new Show Home (under construction) and Sales Center located in MacDonald Highlands to learn about our comprehensive Custom Home Design/Build process. Commission your dream home in any Las Vegas Valley neighborhood today.

685 Dragon Peak Ct, Henderson, Nevada 89012 | Open daily | 702.531.3000 | blueheron.com

Style. Crafted just for you.

Your PellaÂŽ Chicago team is ready to show you the right window or door for your home and budget.

Whether wood, vinyl or fiberglass, let our Chicago team find the right product that fits your vision. Pella can help support the completion of your project - from a new construction install to a remodel project.

Your home is unique, so you shouldn’t have to settle for an ordinary window or door.

Pella windows are rated #1 by homeowners for highest quality.1 Call today for your free in-home consultation and learn more.

Study of homeowner perceptions of leading national brands. Study commissioned by Pella, 2019.

1

Pella Window & Door Showroom 840 Willow Road, Northbrook, IL | (847) 562-9275 1600 West 16th Street, Oak Brook, IL | (630) 571-6404 2726 New Sutton Road, Hoffman Estates, IL | (847) 643-8050 7805 West 159th Street, Tinley Park, IL | (708) 633-9830

PellaChicago.com

Fall 2019

82 18

on the cover: At Mama Rabbit inside Park MGM, artist Okuda San Miguel stands in front of his mural “Mother Natura,” which features an 18-by-22-foot mural of mythical figure, Mayahuel, the goddess of agave, looking down upon a valley of her sacred plant.

Portrait by JustKids.

DOWN TO A SCIENCE Amanda Phingbodhipakkiya’s art makes science not only accessible, but inviting

24

SISTER-IN-LAW ACT The co-founders of Veronica Beard give SL their take on how sophistication comes in one style: your own

26

WEARABLE ART Celebrity designer Jared Lehr talks to SL about his quest to create pieces of jewelry that are just as rare, beautiful and sophisticated as the muses they adorn

28

IN REAL LIFE Influencer-favorite e-retailer Revolve arrives at Palms Casino Resort with a pop-up boutique and playful suites

74

SELF-CARE AFFAIR The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas has a spread of sinfully good ways to take care of your body and mind

33

MID-ENGINE, HIGH EXPECTATIONS The 2020 C8 Stingray is Chevrolet’s first-ever production mid-engine Corvette

36

SOUTHERN DRAW A look at how natural beauty translates to Southern charm at Montage Palmetto Bluff

42

A PENNY FOR YOUR THOUGHTS From refrigerators to beds, baths and beyond, home decor’s metal du jour shines like a good ole one cent piece

44

EVERYTHING’S COMING UP ROSÉ A pioneer of rosé in the United States, Azur brings French techniques to California

46

REIGNING MEN A collection of must-reads about memorable men

48

82 4

slmag.net

Beverage expert and Oaxaca-born Bricia Lopez debuts Mama Rabbit at Park MGM, boasting the largest collection of mezcal and tequila in the country. Portrait by Krystal Ramirez

BREAKING THE MOLD The Lotus Evija stuns sports car lovers as the most potent all-electric car

50

CAMEO APPEARANCE Ancient art is given new life through innovative jewelry designs

Show your true colors.

ALL OF THEM.

DAC O R M AT C H

LEARN MORE ABOUT DACORMATCH AT OUR CHICAGO SHOWROOM 222 MERCHANDISE MART PLAZA, #142 CHICAGO, IL 60654 312 265 0033 | DACOR.COM

N E W YO R K | C H I CAG O | LO S A N G E L E S | S E O U L

Fall 2019

52

BRONZE AGE Offering the potential for a unique patina that develops over time, bronze is the new “it” metal for approachable luxury timepieces

54

CULTURE CLUB Angama Mara immerses guests in all aspects of Kenya’s legendary Maasai Mara National Reserve

62

NEW GUEST EXPERIENCES AWAIT RACING FANS The Breeders’ Cup returns to Santa Anita Park for a record-breaking 10th time

66

SOPHISTICATED SOURCE Fall’s freshest fashion, art and interior design finds

74

A LOT TO VIEW A MacDonald Highlands homeowner loved his neighboring lot so much, he moved next door. Here’s how he made the switch, with the help of designer Karla Isais

82

CAUSE FOR CELEBRATION As The Shade Tree grows—the life-changing organization honors pop powerhouse Christina Aguilera at its 30th anniversary gala

84

A SIP TRIP THROUGH GREECE Four must-drink bottles from the origin of wine culture

86

CASTING A MEZCAL SPELL A James Beard-Award winner brings the magic of mezcal to Park MGM with Mama Rabbit

93

CALENDAR SL’s list of not-to-miss events for giving back and good times

94

SOPHISTICATED SOCIETY SL makes its Las Vegas debut with a soiree in Southern Highlands

96

SOPHISTICATED WOMAN Eileen Moore, regional president for Caesars Entertainment, discusses the things that light up her life, and projects past and present that have ignited her passion

20 6

slmag.net

Artist Amanda Phingbodhipakkiya launches Connective Tissue at UNLV’s Marjorie Barrick Museum of Art. Shown here, her work “Psychodiagnostic.”

66

Sparkling cluster bracelet and earrings featuring sapphires, aquamarines and diamonds set in platinum, price upon request, by Harry Winston, The Shops at Crystals, 702.262.0001

PUBLISHER Alison Victoria CREATIVE DIRECTOR Bridget Daley EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Melinda Sheckells EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Lauren Velentzas ——————————————— ART DIRECTOR Jason Yann CONTRIBUTORS Writers Jessi C. Acuña Tony Bailey Camille Cannon Veronica Chase Colin Dennis Marisa Finetti Chole Gellar Karina Heinrich David Himmel Andre James Rob Kachelriess Lissa Townsend Rodgers Bridget Williams Claire Williams Photographers Stephen Busken Amit Dadlaney Ricardo Rivera Gonzalez Anthony Mair Krystal Ramirez Mikayla Whitmore Photo Editing Stephen Luxem ADVERTISING SALES OFFICE alison@slmag.net ——————————————— SOPHISTICATED LIVING MEDIA Eric Williams - CEO Bridget Williams - President Sophisticated Living® is published by AVMM Media Group, LLC and is independently owned and operated.

Sophisticated Living® is a registered trademark of Williams Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Sophisticated Living® is published six times a year. All images and editorial are the property of AVMM Media Group, LLC and cannot be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission. Annual subscription fees are $25.00; please add $5 for subscriptions outside the US. Address all subscription inquiries to the website slmag.net. Telephone 937.672.6448.

SLMAGCHICAGO.COM

4043 Primordia – NEW

Beautifully superior.

Designed by nature. Perfected through innovation.

Find yours at caesarstone.com

All the things that SL Mag Las Vegas Publisher Alison Victoria is coveting right now

FACE FORWARD I mix two drops of Tan-Luxe The Face with my moisturizer and get the most natural-looking bronze glow all year long. @tan_luxe FOR MY HEALTH I do a weeklong juice cleanse at least once every two months to jump-start my body. It’s a must with my travel schedule.

Clean Juice’s five-day cleanse energizes me and helps me feel refreshed. @cleanjuice FOR MY HOME Sleep is the most important thing I can do to stay healthy, so having the best sheets is so important. I feel like I’m resting in a cloud with these Legna sheets, and I have a travel set as well so I’m never without them. @bedsidemanorltd ON MY FEET I’m a sucker for a nude shoe, and these Manolo Blahnik Rosie boots are a staple of my fall wardrobe. @neimanmarcus SWEET DREAMS I get eight to nine hours of sleep a night thanks to the Hästens 2000T, and it’s worth every penny considering how many mattresses I’ve been through. This is my forever bed. @chicagoluxurybeds

Alison Victoria Owner & Publisher alison@slmag.net

10 slmag.net

Everything Editor-in-Chief Melinda Sheckells loves this season

WHAT I LOVE The seventh-annual Life is Beautiful festival brought a selection of new murals to Downtown Las Vegas. My favorite is the butterfly specimen boxes by French street artist Mantra, painted on the Fremont 9 apartments. @mantrarea ON MY CALENDAR Day N Vegas hip hop festival takes over the Las Vegas Festival Grounds November 1 to 3 with headliners J Cole, Travis Scott and Kendrick Lamar. This event is at the top of my fall calendar with dozens of acts that are a major draw. @daynvegas2019 WHERE I SHOP Drake’s OVO popup at Wynn Plaza has attracted long lines of shoppers to the tiny 700 square-foot space. This owl rug is just so cute but I also love the hoodies and other gear. The owl rug, one more way the Canadian rapper has collaborated with the casino-resort since launching a series of performances at XS Nightclub in early 2019. @wynnlasvegas WHAT I EAT The grilled octopus with clementine, gooseberries, bacon and Marcona almonds at Bobby Flay’s Shark in Palms Casino Resort is one of the best iterations of this dish I have tasted. It is perfection on the plate. @shark.lasvegas Melinda Sheckells Editor-In-Chief melinda@slmag.net 12 slmag.net

WHAT I WEAR I am a Rent the Runway devotee. I subscribed to their unlimited service in the spring, and I have been steadily receiving four amazing items at a time since. I love the experience so much I recently added a fifth spot in my shopping bag, and this fall season I will check out the formal wear selection. Perfect for those who always want to look fab but don’t want to commit. @renttherunway

Transform Your Home with Sunburst Shutters ¨

Custom window treatments are one of the most dramatic home upgrades you can make. New shutters are an especially beautiful upgrade to any room—and they go with any decorating style from modern to traditional. Sunburst Shutters & Window Fashions has everything you want, and we do all the work for you. Just pick your treatment and you’re done. You’ll love the look! ❖ ❖ ❖

Reduce Your Power Bills Add Equity to Your Home 100% Made in the USA

❖ ❖ ❖

100% Lifetime Warranty Free In-Home Consultation No Interest for 12 Months* *Subject to credit approval.

702-367-1600

|

Get up to $500 Off Polywood Shutters ¨

Minimum Order Required.

SunburstShuttersLasVegas.com

Visit Our New Design Center 5626 Rafael Rivera Way, Las Vegas

All the things that SL Mag Las Vegas Creative Director Bridget Daley adores this season

UP IN THE AIR I just received the Nike Air Force 1 ‘07 Lux as a gift, and I can’t get enough of them. I pair them with denim shorts and slip dresses. I always love to have a little edge with every outfit I put together. I’ve been a Nike kid since my grammar school days, and it’s hard to not love this brand that has outlasted all. @nike TASTE MADE From Chicago to Las Vegas, Bavette’s is my go-to restaurant for consistency in food, service and spirits. I love that Hogsalt Hospitality got its start in my hometown, Chicago. It’s been amazing to watch it grow. Now, I have my favorite restaurant in my second city, Las Vegas. Side note: best burger in town! @bavettessteakhouse ON MY FACE Sadly, summer is coming to a close, but that doesn’t mean your glow needs to end. M-61 PowerGlow Peel is insane! It transforms your skin overnight. @bluemercury MY FAVORITE SHADE I’m constantly asked about my eyeshadow—NARS Hardwired in Galapagos. I’ve been wearing this shade for more than 10 years. I have green eyes, and it really pops the color. I have suggested this palette to so many friends and they are just as obsessed with the outcome—such a universal shade by NARS. @narsissist IN THE CLOSET Once again, Off-White steals the show. This dress is a serious upgrade to anyone’s wardrobe—there’s nothing like it. Perfect for the cooler weather coming our way. @vmrchicago Bridget Daley Creative Director daley@slmag.net 14 slmag.net

A shorter season deserves a long-lasting investment.

Summer can slip away fast. But building your outdoor living space with Trex® means you’ll enjoy every minute of it. That’s because, unlike wood, Trex is engineered to eliminate time-consuming maintenance like staining and sanding, while providing superior scratch, fade and stain resistance.

And since it’s made from 95% recycled materials, it’s a decision you can feel good about. When it’s time for your next project, turn to the #1 name in outdoor living for stunning and enduring beauty.

Visit trex.com for ideas and inspiration to make your outdoor living dreams comes true.

Contributors “Interviewing Jared Lehr was like hopping on the phone with that one friend that you can talk to for hours and hours about anything,” says writer Karina Heinrich. “Jared’s intense passion for life, travel, beauty and his creative craft is not only what makes him such a significant designer, but that inner fire to push the envelope is both contagious and alluring. His extraordinary devotion to creating jewelry that allows women to adorn themselves with incredible pieces of art reflects his love for sophisticated techniques. Who and where will his next muse strike? His pieces will tell us the whole story.” Heinrich is the creator of The Karina Method, the breakthrough nutrition movement utilizing her signature “High Low Lean No” nutrition rules and “Tough Love” approach. Heinrich is a content powerhouse, hosting her popular Haute Nibble recipe videos and regularly contributing to national outlets such as E! News, Daily Pop, Huffington Post, Well + Good and Prevention. @thekarinamethod “When I took a sip of Assyrtiko, it took me back in time to when I stepped foot on that vineyard in Santorini—lava rock crunching beneath my feet, immersed in culture, food and people, the salty air, the distinct, donut-shaped vines found only there … wine can magically bring us to that place and time,” says Marisa Finetti, a wine writer for Las Vegas lifestyle publications, as well as for Decanter.

She enjoys traveling the world sip-by-sip. She is also the creator of #marisaswinedoodles. “Greece’s wine history is ancient yet still undiscovered. It’s an exciting time for Greece right now!” @marisafinetti “I’ve written about numerous homes in the upscale MacDonald Highlands community, and they never cease to amaze me,” says writer Rob Kachelriess. “Of course, the views are incredible, but the neighborhood has a level of maturity and character that’s hard to find in newer, contemporary housing developments. The custom homes always feel adventurous, and I enjoyed talking with Brian Fettner about how he pulled together the right team to design an estate that was perfect for his lifestyle. He found the ideal lot and made his dream come true. It’s inspiring.” Kachelriess is a recent first-time homeowner and is always stealing design ideas. He profiles high-end homes throughout the Las Vegas Valley for Luxury Estates International. @rkachelriess “Watching Las Vegas evolve is such a special treat,” says writer Jessi C. Acuña. “This is my hometown, so I have a lot of pride in saying things such as, ‘We have the only brick-and-mortar Revolve in the world.’ It’s significant that the e-commerce fashion retailer made a home at the Palms Casino Resort, but this score is par for the course in this city. And that’s why I love it.” This isn’t the only thing Acuña adores about living in such a vibrant place. “The wellness space has grown at a rapid rate, and thanks to the Strip properties we have access to a community that is at the forefront of it. Case in point: The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. The hotel is offering it all.” @foreverarriving “Some artists have a sort of tunnel vision about their work—Amanda Phingbodhipakkiya is the opposite.

She has a wider vision of her art, how it employs different media and connects to other disciplines,” says Lissa Townsend Rodgers, who has written for a variety of publications in New York City and Las Vegas and is working on a book about gangster women to come out with Huntington Press in 2020. She spoke to Phingbodhipakkiya for this issue and was especially inspired by her focus on women in science. “Amanda’s art commemorates women in STEM—she’s not just examining the past, but looking to the future.”

“Photographing Bricia Lopez was a breath of fresh air. In a world dominated by men, she is a powerful force and her energy is contagious,” says photographer Krystal Ramirez, a Texas-Born, Nevada-raised multidisciplinary visual artist whose practice alternates between fine art and commercial photography.

She’s been photographing art, food and editorials in Las Vegas for 10 years. When she’s not taking photos you can find Ramirez roller-skating, making art or planning her next travel adventure. @krystalrmrz

16 slmag.net

salty but sweet

Our sweet mermaids swim in Silverton Casino’s 117,000 gallon aquarium each week.

Now is your chance to meet a mermaid up close and personal.

MERMAID SCHOOL

Saturday & Sunday  8:30am – 10am Learn to swim just like the Silverton Mermaids.

Includes:

 Warm up session  Behind the scenes  Mermaid swim lesson aquarium tour in the aquarium

MERMAID EXPERIENCE Friday & Saturday  12pm – 8pm Sunday  10am – 6pm

Meet a mermaid and have your photo taken with her.

MEALS WITH A MERMAID Saturday & Sunday  11am & 12:30pm Interact with our mermaids while dining next to the aquarium.

RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED

Purchase tickets at the Silverton Box Office, by calling 702.263.7777 or online at silvertoncasino.com

DOWN TO A SCIENCE

Amanda Phingbodhipakkiya’s art makes science not only accessible, but inviting.

By Lissa Townsend Rodgers / Portraits by Ricardo Rivera Gonzalez “Accessible” is not usually a word identified with the worlds of art or science, yet Amanda Phingbodhipakkiya combines the two to create works that welcome people to both the gallery and the lab.

“My work seeks to invite people in,” she says. “My hope is that you don’t need an arts or science background to enjoy it … that it invites you to feel not only like you belong but you have the freedom and the capacity to play in the space that I’ve created.”

Her pieces explore everything from the contributions of women scientists to the creative applications of fungi to the functions of a cell, combining her backgrounds in neuroscience and design to engage and illuminate audiences. “A lot of science feels so intangible because a lot of it we can’t see with our two eyes,” Phingbodhipakkiya says. “It measures changes over a long time, or it’s too small for us to see. My work really tries to make it tangible.”

18 slmag.net

While that work has been seen in galleries and museums from Iowa to the Netherlands, it also extends beyond the confines of well-lit whitewashed walls to two TED Talks, a STEM program for middle-school girls and a clothing line.

In her new show at UNLV’s Barrick Museum of Art, Connective Tissue, Phingbodhipakkiya has created a number of new works: sculptures, murals and interactive pieces. The variety of media suits the show’s theme of seemingly disparate entities linking together. “It’s about examining a macro view of society and all the ways in which connective tissues bind us, whether it’s person to person, person to organization, organization to organization, subatomic particle to subatomic particle,” she says. Her hope is that viewers will interact with pieces within the space, but that the images and ideas will also move people to action after they have left the gallery.

For her Barrick exhibit, Phingbodhipakkiya has added an extra dimension to the women of Beyond Curie by creating a series of classically styled, 3-D-printed busts.

slmag.net

19

Amanda Phingbodhipakkiya, Connective Tissue, 2019, Marjorie Barrick Museum of Art, UNLV

20 slmag.net

”Connective Tissue ignites curiosity and learning while encouraging us to work together. It’s an exciting example of how art and science can change our world for the better,” says Alisha Kerlin, executive director of Barrick Museum. “The exhibition is on view during a time when collective action and collaboration are important.”

“I’m trying to engage audiences and help them not only understand what touch can teach them, but also invite them to interact with others and work together toward a common goal,” Phingbodhipakkiya says. One of the exhibition’s pieces invites audiences to interact with a wall of printers that delivers possible biotech futures (“You know those fortune teller booths at the circus where you press a button and get a fortune? It’s kind of like that,” she says). Another turns LEDs and inflatables into a large-scale model of a neuron. “I’ll take something tiny you couldn’t possibly see with the human eye, and I’ll make it so huge that you can step inside it and touch it and view it and bask in its presence,” she says.

Phingbodhipakkiya is fascinated by how interaction impacts the appreciation of art, but she is also interested in how it can influence art’s creation. Her project The Leading Strand brings together scientists and artists to create visual and interactive representations of scientific concepts. The multidisciplinary project was incubated during Phingbodhipakkiya’s 2016 TED Talk Residency, but the genesis of the idea began much earlier.

She became aware of the need to make science accessible when she was a cognitive neuroscience researcher working with Alzheimer’s patients at Columbia Medical Center in New York.

She experienced the difficulty scientists had communicating complex medical and biological concepts to their patients and research subjects and realized that design could be a language to communicate those ideas. After getting an MFA in design from the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, she worked as an art director at an advertising agency, but felt the urge to turn her talents to something with not just visual but societal impact.

She combined science, design and activism in Beyond Curie, a series of striking, high-impact portraits celebrating lesser-known women in science, technology, engineering and math. Subjects included 19th-century mathematician Ada Lovelace, pioneering atomic physicist ChienShiung Wu and contemporary marine biologist Dijanna Figueroa. “Representation, to me, is so important,” says Phingbodhipakkiya. “Just being able to see a woman that looks like you and know her story and know that she has shaped society in an incredibly important way makes you believe that you can too.” The artworks would fit right into a chic penthouse or elementary school classroom and inspire viewers, if not to a career in science, at least to a Google search.

slmag.net

21

Amanda Phingbodhipakkiya, Connective Tissue, 2019, Marjorie Barrick Museum of Art, UNLV

Amanda Phingbodhipakkiya, Connective Tissue, 2019, Marjorie Barrick Museum of Art, UNLV

Image from the artist’s Brooklyn studio of lampshades grown from mycelium, the vegetative part of fungi before the mushroom sprouts. Each lampshade takes roughly two weeks to grow when conditions are right.

22 slmag.net

A field of hippocampal neurons, (where memory lives in the brain) over which stories of badass women who are no longer with us are projected, like a reimagined graveyard. The stories were sourced through Google voice from around the world.

For her Barrick exhibit, Phingbodhipakkiya has added an extra dimension to the women of Beyond Curie—literally—by creating a series of classically styled, 3-D-printed busts, an idea that came to her when she was considering what kinds of statues are in our nation’s parks and rotundas. “I actually looked it up, and it’s something like 7.5 percent of all busts in all of the United States depict women. So I thought: Why don’t we 3-D-print busts of women in STEM? Start to fix this problem!” She was also intrigued by the opportunity to “juxtapose this vision of a bust that looked like what you would see classically molded out of plaster or stone but actually [is] created with some of the latest technology.”

Phingbodhipakkiya has also tried to represent and inspire women in STEM beyond her artwork, creating an after-school program for young women that began in New York City and now extends into cyberspace.

The project had its bumps at first, as Phingbodhipakkiya sought to connect with a roomful of teenagers. “I realized that I was not meeting them where they are. These girls, they were just like ‘I’m so bored, I did this in class, I don’t need this from

you.’ I needed to change the curriculum to be more interactive— painting with conductive inks, creating little robots, making all different kinds of slime—but still learning the technology and the science behind these activities,” she recalls. “I knew I was doing something right whenever one of the girls had to miss club, her friends would FaceTime her in. That’s how much they wanted to be there and felt like they belonged.” The club expanded into ATOMIC Squad, a Facebook group for young women interested in STEM where girls can journal, chat and participate in live Q&A sessions with women in the sciences; as well as the ATOMIC by Design clothing line.

Working with the scientists and artists of the future fits with Phingbodhipakkiya’s philosophy of connecting people to the past, the future and each other. “We have access to technology that goes beyond what sci-fi writers could have dreamed of,” she says. “But we are still connected to these issues of the past, these impressions and insults of history. I think unless we can examine our past for what it is, then we aren’t going to be able to write ourselves a new path forward.” sl unlv.edu/barrickmuseum slmag.net

23

SISTER-IN-LAW ACT

By Ceta Walters, fashion and lifestyle blogger, clarkandstone.com

The co-founders of Veronica Beard give SL their take on how sophistication comes in one style: your own.

Many notable design duos may give the impression that they’re like a family, but few can say they actually are. Veronica Miele Beard and Veronica Swanson Beard are just that. Sisters-in-law married to brothers, the two came together through a love of fashion and founded Veronica Beard with the goal of designing for women like them. Launched in 2010, the label includes a variety of styles that appeal to all kinds of women. From their classic Dickeys—an article of clothing you zip into the front of a jacket to change its look—to collaborations with Kassatex, VB allows mothers, entrepreneurs and anyone in between to feel confident and fashionable without sacrificing comfort. Here the Veronicas share their favorites things, what inspires them and the places that keep them coming back for more.

What’s your favorite country to visit?

VMB: Italy.

VSB: France.

What is the first thing you do when you wake up in the morning?

VERONICA MIELE BEARD Press snooze.

VERONICA SWANSON BEARD Check Instagram.

Most universally flattering color?

VMB: Pink.

Name one thing that you can’t live without?

VMB: Joe’s coffee.

VSB: My phone.

What is the most elegant gift to give or to receive?

VMB: Love.

VSB: An engraved charm.

Where is your favorite place to go when you come to Chicago?

VMB: Michigan Avenue.

No one should ever wear…

VMB: Uncomfortable shoes.

Everyone should own…

VMB: A Dickey jacket.

Describe your line in three words?

VMB: Cool classic chic.

What is your favorite piece in your closet?

VSB: Vintage Christian Dior suede fringe western jacket.

Proudest career moment?

VSB: Every day we get to do this.

Who or what inspires you?

VMB: The win.

VSB: Women who are making it happen.

What are you reading right now?

VSB: Blessing in Disguise by Danielle Steel.

Most sophisticated person ever?

VMB: My mom.

Guilty pleasure?

VSB: Vintage shopping.

Who is your dream client?

VMB: All the ladies making a difference.

Current must-have from your collection?

VSB: Pink floral smocked dress.

What is your favorite cocktail?

VMB: A really good red.

VSB: Tequila soda and with lemons.

Place you go for utter peace?

VSB: Yoga mat.

Coffee or tea?

VMB: Both.

VSB: Currently high on matcha lattes.

Most sophisticated city?

VMB: Paris.

VSB: London.

24 slmag.net

Name your top three vacation must-haves?

VSB: My husband, my kids and sunscreen.

Most sophisticated structure or building?

VSB: Eiffel Tower.

How do you define ‘sophistication’?

VSB: Knowing who you are and what you want.

sl veronicabeard.com

Veronica Miele Beard (left) and Veronica Swanson Beard (right)

Left: Anthea Dress, $795 Right: Rhodora Jacket, $695, Elsy Belt, $250, Hibiscus Pant, $695

Left: Louisa Dickey Jacket, $695, Lucinda Top, $450, Colt Pant, $395 Right: Nila Dress, $750, Roan Sandal, $350

Cato Jacket, $750 Simona Dress, $595

slmag.net

25

WEARABLE ART

By Karina Heinrich / Portrait by Stephen Busken

Celebrity jewelry designer Jared Lehr talks to SL about his quest to create pieces of jewelry that are just as rare, beautiful and sophisticated as the muses they adorn.

Jared Lehr has dedicated himself to traveling to the most remote parts of the globe to master old-world jewelry techniques and source the rarest gemstones and diamonds. He is seldom seen without his sketchpad in hand ready for the moment that inspiration strikes—mosaics in Italy, the jungles of the Congo, the vibrant colors of South America. He skillfully fuses old-time influences and methods with new-world technology to create predominantly one-of-a-kind pieces, made in Los Angeles.

Nationally, through his brand Jared Lehr Jewelry, he is one of the select few who has been invited to sell his fine jewelry pieces at Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus.

Some of the world’s most famous celebs proudly wear his work on the red carpet, including Katy Perry, Zoe Saldana, Cardi B, Rihanna, and Carrie Underwood—with the A-list ever growing for his exclusive brand.

Lehr shares his creative passions, his day-to-day loves and inspirations, and explains how sophistication defines it all.

What are you reading right now?

Nahid by Joan Parks. She wrote that book based on my life.

What is your favorite cocktail?

Grey Goose with a splash of grapefruit.

Coffee or tea? Coffee.

Guilty pleasure?

Bacon—lots of it.

What’s your favorite country to visit? France.

Most sophisticated city …

Paris.

Place you go for utter peace?

Sequoia National Park—my phone doesn’t work there.

What is the first thing you do when you wake up in the morning?

Have a six-shot soy latte with two sugars.

Name your top three vacation must-haves.

La Mer moisturizer, my sketchpad and good coffee.

Name one thing that you can’t live without.

My archives of designs that I haven’t made yet—is that one thing?

Most sophisticated structure or building?

Musée d’Orsay in Paris.

What is your favorite piece in your closet?

My Tom Ford herringbone jacket.

Where is your favorite place to go when you come to Chicago?

True story—I’ve snuck into Soldier Field a few times when it’s empty, just to soak up the history and feel.

What is the most elegant gift to give or to receive?

Dom Pérignon, of course.

Who or what inspires you?

Traveling the world and soaking up its beauty inspire all my creations.

Who is your muse?

All my collectors are my muses in their own way. They inspire my art to be pure and from the soul.

Most sophisticated person ever?

Katharine Hepburn. I would have loved to design some pieces for her.

Proudest career moment?

Having my pieces in the Bergdorf Goodman window on 57th Street.

Who is your dream client?

I have her, but I have to plead the fifth on her identity.

26 slmag.net

No one should ever wear … socks and sandals.

Everyone should own … a sexy pair of long earrings.

Most universally flattering color … gray.

Current must-have from your collection?

My stackable mosaic band rings.

Describe your line in three words?

Elegant, wearable art.

How do you define ‘sophistication’?

Sophistication is being your best self, owning it, and winning at life. sl jaredlehr.com

18K blackened gold spinel and diamond ring, $26,500

18K yellow gold spinel and diamond earrings, $57,000

18K blackened gold Colombian emerald and diamond ring, $147,580

18K yellow gold multicolor diamond necklace, $105,000

slmag.net

27

Photo by Jeff Green

IN REAL LIFE

Influencer-favorite e-retailer Revolve arrives at Palms Casino Resort with a pop-up boutique and playful suites.

By Jessi C. Acuña Eleven young women pose on the second story of a private cabana overlooking a popular Las Vegas pool. Dressed in similar denim shorts and trendy swimwear tops—neon, one piece, bandeau— their faces are painted in filter-free-worthy makeup and framed by voluminous, bouncy locks. “What happens here resonates everywhere,” reads the Instagram caption.

This is the stuff social media influencer dreams are made of.

And fashion e-retailer giant Revolve is reigning supreme.

Captured for its 3.3 million Instagram followers, the “Revolve x Palms” takeover at Palms Casino Resort in June signified a well-timed partnership that has resulted in an exclusive pop-up boutique and branded suites.

For starters, Revolve is reaching far and wide. Its first IPO this summer closed the day with the year’s third-best U.S. trading debut. Known for bypassing traditional marketing campaigns with models, the company finds much of its success through its global network of roughly 2,500 influencers.

Draya Michele and Amanda Stanton, former reality TV stars who parlayed their platform into social media fame, were a part of that spring pool-day posse. The combined 8.7 million Instagram followers of that pair alone shows the reach Revolve has in its back pocket.

As for Palms, Revolve’s arrival was another brilliant addition to its massive $690 million renovation. On June 14, the millennial-focused e-commerce site, which features more than 600 fashion labels and 21 in-house brands, opened its first longterm pop-up boutique on the casino floor of the resort.

The aspirational lifestyle—now available in-store.

This partnership was born from sisters Kelley Nemiro and Victoria Fertitta. Nemiro is vice president of corporate marketing

28 slmag.net

and guest experience for Station Casinos, the owner of Palms. Their dad, Frank Fertitta III is chairman and CEO of Station Casinos, owners of Palms.

Thanks to a lifestyle blog they launched four years ago, the sisters have established themselves as influencers in their own right.

“I started out as a customer on Revolve probably six or seven years ago,” Nemiro says. “It was probably two or three years ago now we got introduced to Michael Mente and Raissa Gerona through a mutual friend of ours and had dinner with them.”

Mente founded Revolve with Mike Karanikolas in 2003.

Gerona joined as Chief Brand Officer in 2010.

The parties immediately clicked, and Nemiro realized the synergies of the Palms and Revolve brands were a match. Plus, she was on the lookout for a store partner.

“Both Kelley and Victoria were just so in tune with what we were doing on the influencer side, and more importantly, obviously felt the brand was in great alignment with the new Palms that they were building,” Gerona says.

The partnership launched in 2018 with a Palms activation at Revolve Festival, the exclusive event that takes place during the first weekend of Coachella, drawing the company’s top influencers to see big-name acts in an intimate setting (Hello, SZA and Chance the Rapper!). It’s also where highprofile celebs, such as Kendall Jenner and Emily Ratajkowski, come to pose in front of flower walls and give you FOMO. Flash forward, after a second Revolve Festival and the Revolve Awards— last November, Palms hosted an evening built for hashtags, categories include Brand of the Year, BFFs of the Year and, of course, Influencer of the Year—to this summer. Between its

Kelley Nemiro Portrait by Bethany Paige

Photo by Denise Truscello

Ellen Lora, @ellenvlora and Christen Dominique, @christendominique Photo by Denise Truscello

Raissa Gerona

all-occasions women’s clothing, beauty and men’s retail options, last year’s sales came in at $499 million.

The boutique’s success is no surprise. Customers can now shop at the 1,000-square-foot space in-person for favorites, including Lovers + Friends, Tularosa and GRLFRND. And since it is Revolve, get yourself a flower wall photo too … #revolveme.

The lifestyle the retailer is curating grows from the data on trends that it mines. Its chosen content creators showcase the end results. When a style or product is selling well, some of the designers and brands can turn around inventory within weeks, according to Gerona, who has helped launch some of the in-house labels. It’s part of the infrastructure in place to make sure the company stays up to speed.

“Creating a brand is always so exciting because you have an opportunity to connect with the consumer on a deeper level through products and obviously through the brand message,” she says.

There are also the big-name partnerships.

“On top of that, when we have great partners, whether it’s Chrissy Teigen or Nicole Richie or most recently Aimee Song of Song of Style, it makes the process even more fulfilling and just more enjoyable because you have such a great person that you’re working with,” Gerona says.

The Fertitta sisters have also made it to the pages of Revolve.com themselves with their blog-turned-clothing-brand Wilson Gabrielle.

After making the connection with Mente and Gerona, the sisters realized the synchronicity of the moment and brought some samples forward.

It was a fit, and the first line of jeans made their way to the e-retailer.

“We’ve been really blessed that we sold out of almost everything on their site twice now, and they’ve done a reorder and it’s been really

successful,” Nemiro says. “We’re so happy to have them, because we can really reach a wider audience with their support.”

Palms being a hotel and all, the fashion fun transcends shopping sprees and nightclub takeovers.

As part of the property’s rebranding, all six of its famed suites— think Kingpin and Hardwood—underwent a transformation at the end of 2018. With that came two Revolve-themed suites, designed

by Los Angeles’ Avenue Interior Design, and ready to host influencers and fans alike.

Ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 a night, the photofriendly one- and two-bedroom suites are the ultimate playgrounds, including dressing rooms with seating areas, and multiple sinks and vanity mirrors, making getting ready an event in and of itself.

Similar to the boutique, the rooms are rich in blush rose and cream tones and gold accents, and decked out with white marble. Curated art from Brooklyn-based street art duo Faile and British graffiti artist Aroe accompany floor-to-ceiling views of the Las Vegas Strip.

And if that weren’t enough, in-room styling by Revolve is also available throughout the hotel, giving all guests the chance to have a store employee prep a personalized look to try on in the comfort of their rooms. Or, if you still prefer to shop online, opt to have your purchase steamed and waiting in the hotel room upon arrival.

Expect plenty more takeovers at the resort, from the casino floor to anywhere else Palms decides to give this social-mediasavvy bunch access.

Instagram is a good place to look for hints. sl palms.com

slmag.net

29

SELF-CARE AFFAIR The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas has a spread of sinfully good ways to care for your body and mind.

By Jessi C. Acuña Transform your senses. Treat yo’ self. However you want to say it, the goal is the same: self-care. Whether for the mind, body or spirit, the idea is to come back to yourself reinvigorated to tackle whatever life may throw at you next. And what better way to do that than with a wellness day. On a Strip loaded with options, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas has you covered.

“We’re getting more and more wellness-savvy clients through the door over the years, and not just our own, but The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas as a luxury resort,” says Shannon Stringert, director of spa, salon and fitness. “We focus on giving guests the resources to maintain their wellness routine while they’re traveling.”

Although Vegas isn’t solely about vices, the resort still offers an experience that leaves you on a sensory high. From specialized massages to B12 booster shots, here’s a look at some of our favorite ways to reach peak vitality on property.

PUT IN WORK It’s not enough to simply unplug these days.

Unwinding is a process, and you want to be sure you’re in full Zen mode before you hit the massage table. So think of a visit to the Chelsea Fitness Center as the pregame to the spa. For 60 minutes, its blended yoga class guides you through a flow of both 30 slmag.net

active and passive poses, taking you from dance-floor sore to sauna-room ready. This moving meditation is the perfect mix of vinyasa and yin influences for both beginner yogis and those with longtime practices.

Now that the blood is flowing, head over to Sahra Spa, Salon & Hamman, where the steam room, sauna and Jacuzzi await.

“Our trend has been that a lot of our guests are carving out either a half day or a full day to experience everything that the spa has to offer,” Stringert says. “A lot of our guests make a good amount of time before their treatment to disconnect so that by the time they get to their treatment, they’re actually disconnected.”

THE RUB DOWN According to Stringert, guests are opting for longer services too—think 80- to 100-minute treatments—to coincide with those dedicated spa days. One great option to amp up the senses is the Desert Aromatherapy Massage. In addition to its signature Desert Oasis blend of oil, this 80-minute massage includes the use of oregano, cedar wood, thyme, rosemary and peppermint essential oils dripped and rubbed on the spine and feet for a transdermal absorption, which means lasting benefits.

“The oils really elevate the service, the whole experience,” says Anne Weisman, director of wellness and integrated medicine

The Sahra Spa’s exclusive retail collection

The Sahra Spa Suite is perfect for bachelorette parties.

at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. “Oils add an additional layer because they’re working on the physical body, but they’re also working on the emotional body and the energetic bodies. I think that that’s a really important feature.”

Not only do you get the luxury of a personalized treatment, you get the added benefit of knowing the Sankaya essential oil line is locally based. In fact, Weisman, who also happens to be a former massage therapist, has worked with owner Jordania Goldberg for years and even offered input about tweaking this particular treatment.

“The intention of the treatment is full-body detox, and we definitely wanted not just single notes of different things that are used in it … we wanted to blend some oils together that would have a specific intention,” Stringert says. “They’re handcrafted, pure essential oils, and they help tell the story of Sahra Spa along with its desert-inspired background.”

ABOVE AND BEYOND The story of the space transcends the typical therapy rooms, thanks to private spa suites. If you want to go all out, opt for the Sahra Spa Penthouse Suite. The spa within a spa concept, as Stringert describes it, is suited for private events— hello, bachelorette party—or romantic getaways. With its own

The Sahra Spa Suite

The “Space Between” Serenity Lounge

steam room and oversize side-by-side bathtubs guests can choose shared experiences, such as a couples massage, or enjoy it solo.

But don’t stop there. You’ve spent the day detoxing, it’s time to refuel. REVIV IV Wellness Spa offers booster shots and IV therapy treatments to replenish your body with vitamins, electrolytes and antioxidants like the hangover-friendly Ultraviv.

Services are available in the Sahra suites as well as in-room for an additional charge, or you can do one onsite at Reviv’s spa on the second floor of the hotel.

The suites are also ready to serve up healthy bites, too, with plenty of catering options. Let Mother Nature play her part with some cold-pressed juices and nut milks from another locally based gem, The Juice Standard. Bee WHealthy, a mix of cucumber, celery, romaine, kale, apple, dandelion, parsley, lemon, ginger and turmeric, is the perfect nutrient-dense way to add another layer of wellness to your day.

You’ve worked out, blissed out and even did a re-up of fluids.

But this is Vegas. So end your day with one of Juice Standard’s cold-pressed cocktails. Also located on the second level, its fresh signature juices are mixed with the likes of vodka and tequila— think Bee WHealthy with vodka and ginger beer. Wellness is also about balance, so go ahead and treat yo’ self. sl cosmopolitanlasvegas.com slmag.net

31

MID-ENGINE, HIGH EXPECTATIONS

The 2020 C8 Stingray is Chevrolet's first-ever production mid-engine Corvette Written by Andre James / Photos courtesy of Chevrolet Explaining that the traditional front-engine configuration had reached its performance limits, GM President Mark Ruess, said that the iconic Corvette was due for a new layout. “In terms of comfort and fun, it still looks and feels like a Corvette, but drives better than any vehicle in Corvette history.”

In addition to adding a futuristic dimension to the classic corvette silhouette, the mid-engine layout provides for better weight distribution, as well as improved responsiveness credited to driver positioning closer to the front axle. The new Corvette also boasts excellent forward sightlines, due to a lower positioning of the hood, instrument panel, and steering wheel. “As America’s most iconic performance nameplate, redesigning the Corvette Stingray from the ground up presented the team a historic opportunity, something Chevrolet designers have desired for over 60 years,” said Michael Simcoe, vice president of Global Design, General Motors.

Like a gem on display in a glass case, the 6.2L Small Block V-8 LT2 engine— the only naturally aspirated V-8 in the segment —is

visible through the large rear hatch window. Every one of the engine components, all the way down to the bolts, were built with aesthetics in mind. Seven air vents accentuate this focal point.

The V-8 LT2 engine produces 495 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque when equipped with performance exhaust — the most horsepower and torque of any entry-level Corvette. When equipped with the Z51 Performance Package, it has the fastest 0-60 time of any Corvette ever.

This power, paired with Chevrolet’s first eight-speed dualclutch transmission, translates to lightning-fast shifts and excellent power transfer. While a manual transmission option was left out of the redesign, paddle shifters allow drivers to choose a specific gear. “The performance shift algorithms are so driver-focused, they can sense when you’re doing spirited driving — regardless of driving mode — and will hold lower gears longer for more throttle response,” said Tadge Juechter, Corvette executive chief engineer. slmag.net

33

34 slmag.net

In addition to the familiar Weather, Tour, Sport, and Track driver mode choices, two new modes have been added. MyMode is a configurable setting for a preferred driving style that can remain between key cycles. Z mode, which is activated through a “Z” button on the steering wheel, is a single-use mode that takes MyMode configurations one step further, allowing drivers to adjust the engine and transmission.

With an exterior design that draws cues from modern fighter jets and Formula One racing, the canopy-forward stance boasts a commanding presence with aggressive front fenders, low profile headlamps and uninterrupted body contour lines courtesy of completely hidden door, hood and hatch releases. Dual trunks offer a combined 12.6 cubic feet of storage space Inside the aeronautic-inspired cockpit, a new squared-off, two-spoke heated steering wheel enables an unobscured view of the 12-inch reconfigurable cluster display. Interior accoutrements

encompass hand-wrapped leather components with thick-press stitching; a generous use of metal, including stainless steel speaker grilles with Bose Performance Series audio system; a choice of aluminum or carbon fiber for console and door trim plates; Corvette’s next-generation infotainment system; and, an industry-pioneering Performance Data Recorder, an advanced driving analysis tool.

Options for customization abound, from paint colors to performance. Fancy an Accelerate Yellow body and Adrenaline Red cabin? You can have it by choosing from twelve exterior colors and six interior color themes, in addition to six seat belt colors and two optional stitch packages. A trio of seat options range from the GT1, which emphasizes comfort, to the Competition Sport, which is designed for the track-focused driver.

Scheduled to go into production at GM’s Bowling Green, Kentucky assembly plant in late 2019, the 2020 Stingray will start at under $60,000 (chevy.com/nextgencorvette). sl slmag.net

35

SOUTHERN DRAW Montage Palmetto Bluff Written by Bridget Williams Spanish moss languidly dangling from majestic live oak trees, waiting for a passing breeze to break its stupor. A sinuous flame endlessly shimmying within a gas lantern. The rhythmic ticking of a fan as it whirls away beneath its mount on porch ceiling painted Haint blue. These sleepy and sultry keepers of the cadence of the deep South are utterly intoxicating to me; their charms persist even as the pace slows even more at the height of summer, when the humidity hangs around your shoulders like a wet, warm blanket and the best antidote is a glass of sweet tea.

Epitomizing an idealized version of genteel Lowcountry is Palmetto Bluff, a 20,000-acre development within the historic community of Bluffton, South Carolina. At its heart is Wilson Village, a mixed-use city center whose architecture—including tidy cottages and larger estates disguised as a cluster of smaller dwellings—belies the fact that many of the structures are just over a decade old. Miles and miles of hiking and walking paths meander like the many tributaries of the nearby May, Cooper, and New Rivers. Prominently yet comfortably nestled into this utopia is the Montage Palmetto Bluff, the first East Coast outpost of Montage Hotels & Resorts.

Surrounded by 32 miles of riverfront, the resort is comprised of guest cottages, Montage-branded residences 36 slmag.net

and a 74-room Inn that debuted in 2016. With its vast front porch supported by grand columns, the architecture of the Inn pays homage to a storied mansion that stood nearby in the early 1900s . Inside, the elegant coastal-inspired interiors are sprinkled with heirloom-quality fine art (including pieces by notable local artists) and antiques that lend a feeling of residential realness to the graciously proportioned rooms.

Arriving at lunchtime, I gladly whiled away the hour before my room was ready by tucking into one of the tastiest cobb salads I've ever had at the Inn's Jessamine Restaurant.

The tang of the salad's pimento ranch dressing mixed with the sweetness of candied pecans was divine. Guests of the Inn have access to all seven restaurants spread out over two villages in Palmetto Bluff.

The heartiness of Southern cuisine is legendary, and people in living in this region have eaten well for generations.

Archaeologists say that ancient shell middens located on high bluffs next to local waterways are remnants of oyster roasts by the Altamaha and Yamassee Native American tribes. Appetites have remained consistent according to Executive Chef Nathan Beriau who said the restaurants under his charge can go through ten-thousands oysters on a holiday weekend.

The Montage Palmetto Bluff is located along the May River.

The 74-room inn opened in 2016

slmag.net

37

Kayaking at sunrise on the May River

Church of the Cross in Bluffton, SC

38 slmag.net

Palmetto Bluff's extensive trail system provides access to a diversity of habitats.

Longfield Stables

At Cole's restaurant in the newly developed Moreland Neighborhood, tabby concrete accent walls pay homage to the bounty of the nearby marshland. After loading up on yummy fried pickles, head next door to the state-of-the-art bowling alley, whose gleaming lanes were crafted from a single cypress tree felled on the property.

Palmetto Bluff strives to be an ambassador for the foodways of the Lowcountry. You can taste this commitment at every dining outlet, as they receive produce from a small working farm on property. Going beyond the table, their farmers are committed to understanding and improving best practices that can be shared with students and the broader community. So, while you're indulging at Buffalo's famous Biscuit Bar, a craft cocktail at the Octagon Bar, or coastal cuisine at the Canoe Club, you can feel good about supporting local producers.

Lucky for me there were ample options to keep active in atonement for my daily indulgences. Each morning I referred to the weekly activities booklet to inform the day's agenda. A cruiser-style bike assigned to me for the duration of my stay allowed for frequent leisurely rides on wide paved bike trails, as well as a few forays onto unpaved pathways that provided an even closer look at the local flora and fauna. An absolute highlight for me was a sunrise kayak excursion. As we paddled

across the smooth-as-glass waters, dolphins dipped in and out of crimson-colored spotlights created by dawn's first light breaking through the clouds. There's also an option to explore local waterways at a more leisurely pace aboard Grace, a recently restored 60-foot 1913 motor yacht.

Anglers can fish inland waterways, coastal shallows, or deep waters offshore. Located in a 40-acre hardwood bottom, the new Palmetto Bluff Shooting Club offers 13 sporting clay stations.

The Wilson Lawn and Racquet Club features two manicured croquet lawns, two bocce courts, and eight Har-Tru tennis courts.

Longfield Stables is part of a 173-acre equestrian facility that offers a variety of programs for guests of all ages and levels of experience. A booklet is printed each week outlining the myriad activities available to guests.

A unique aspect of the development is the Palmetto Bluff Conservancy, whose staff of six, including an archaeologist, are tasked with being stewards of the environment and cultural heritage of the property. They carry out their mission via a combination of wildlife management, research, and more than 200 outreach events annually. Conservancy staff have an infectious level of enthusiasm for their job, which has resulted in marked improvements to the local ecosystem at all levels, from bugs to raptors.

slmag.net

39

Clubhouse of the May River championship golf course

The bowling alley at Cole's restaurant

40 slmag.net

Canoe Club restaurant

Conservancy staff were consulted during development of the par-72, 18-hole Jack Nicklaus-designed May River championship golf course. Seashore paspalum turfgrass was chosen for being drought resistant and able to handle contact with brackish water. Pesticide use is kept as low as possible, and bird boxes throughout the course ensure that you'll experience at least one type of birdie during your round. A comfort station on the 6th and 15th holes serves up boiled eggs with hot sauce, a curious but beloved Palmetto Bluff tradition started years ago by the original director of the golf program.

Back at the Inn, Spa Montage Palmetto Bluff eschews the temptation that befalls many destination spas who veer from their given sense of place into something more generic. The crisp

palette of the pretty environs stays in step with the rest of the property. A spa is only as good as its therapists, and my facialist was a master. My 90-minute facial used indulgent Tata Harper products, including a mask made with pure raw honey that smelled good enough to eat. Spa guests can partake of eucalyptus steam rooms, a whirlpool, cold plunge pool, and redwood sauna.

While I still hold tight to my love of the South's sleepy slant, I'll readily admit that I didn't mind upping the tempo to take advantage of the sophisticated satiation offered by engaging in all aspects of the Montage experience.

Montage Palmetto Bluff is located at 477 Mount Pella Road in Bluffton, South Carolina. Rooms from $370/night. For more information or reservations, visit montagehotels.com. sl

slmag.net

41

Of Note... A Penny for Your Thoughts

Compiled by Colin Dennis

Clockwise from top left: Big Chill Classic Fridge in white with brushed copper accents ($4,995; bigchill.com). Serena, designed by Patricia Urquiola for FLOS, is an ultra-thin table lamp intended to mimic the simple beauty in nature ($695; flos.com). Chester floor lamp with satin copper shades from Original BTC ($1,499; originalbtc.com). Falda occasional table in copper-plated steel from Ligne Roset (ligne-roset.com). Opposite page: Dreamcatcher four poster bed in copper-finished metal with with dreamcatcher webbing across the top. Made-toorder by Gaxiola (price upon request; lorengaxiola.com). Intersections Urban Bronze self-adhesive, removable wallpaper from Tempaper ($125/double roll; tempaperdesigns.com). Icona Deco faucet in a matte copper PVD finish from Fantini (fantiniusa.com). Santorini freestanding copper soaking tub from Native Trails ($10,490' nativetrailshome.com).

42 slmag.net

slmag.net

43

EVERYTHING'S COMING UP ROSÉ California-meets-Provence at Azur, who pioneered premium Provençale rosé production in the United States Written by Chloe Gellar As summer slowly begins its fade into fall, I find myself reaching for rosé to bridge the gap between light, crisp summer sipping white wines and heartier fireside reds. But if you ask Élan Fayard, co-founder of Azur Wines in the Napa Valley, she'll say that rosé is seasonless. "It's a fun wine that always has its place on the table," she said.

A Bay Area native and a Francophile from an early age, Élan spent her sophomore year studying abroad in Angers, France. Her passion for food, wine, and the written word took her on a postcollege journey to Oregon's Willamette Valley and then back to France, where she worked and studied in Bordeaux and Provence.

Along the way, she met winemaker Julien Fayard, who hails from a French wine-producing family, and together they devised a plan for making French-inspired and terroir-driven wine in California.

"Napa is the Bordeaux of the USA," explained Élan. "It was our goal to produce the best wines possible, and we sought out sunlight and a great place to live. Napa footed the bill."

Julien's family has been making rosé in Provence for more than five decades. Upon their return to the United States fifteen years ago, both Julien and Élan were discouraged by a dearth of good rosé. In fact, the words "quality" and "rosé" were rarely, if ever used in the same sentence. Seeking to define their niche in the Napa Valley, they started a pioneering crusade to change rosé's image, one sip at a time. Julien worked with local growers to select and harvest grapes for dedicated rosé wine production.

44 slmag.net

With the release of their first 50 cases, Azur quickly made a name for itself as the first winery in the United States dedicated to an authentic Provençale technique for rosé wine production.

The name the Fayard's chose for their winery—Azur— pays homage to the time they spent living in Southern France and underscores that their wines are produced in the French style. Élan said the first three years in business were the hardest, as they worked to inform miseducated consumers that rosé isn't white Zinfandel.

Today, Azur has two labels. Azur, which encompasses a rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, a Proprietary Red, Cabernet Sauvignon, and a Reserve. Ideal for avid collectors, their Empreinte label is a single vineyard designee only available through allocation as production is limited to 100 cases or less.

In 2018 the winery opened The Green Room, its first tasting room. Outfitted in reclaimed wood and touches of sumptuous green velvet, a floor-to-ceiling window in the intimate space provides a full view into the crush pad.

While Élan admits to missing some of the aspects unique to living in France, she does enjoy the wine and food culture in Napa. "It's an invigorating place to live where nearly everyone in this industry is here by choice. That may not seem like much, but almost every person you meet is following their passion." sl Open daily from 11am-6pm, The Green Room at Azur located at 190 Camino Oruga #9 in Napa, California. For more information, visit azurwines.com.

The Fayard Family

slmag.net

45

Bibliotaph... Reigning Men

Compiled by Victoria Chase

Australian artist Samuel Leighton-Dore puts forth 150 resolutely tongue-in-cheek illustrations that explore the myriad identities of a modern man and elicit conversation about how ideas of manhood affect the way men think and act. Samuel Leighton-Dore— How to Be a Big Strong Man: A Modern Guide to Masculinity— hardcover, 144 pages, Smith Street Books (rizzoliusa.com)

Ernest Hemingway's cats are legendary, and the author wasn't alone in his fervor for felines. This illustrated book is full of charming quotes from a broad range of notable "cat men." Sam Kalda—Of Cats and Men: Profiles of History's Great Cat-Loving Artists, Writers, Thinkers and Statesmen— hardcover, 112 pages, Ten Speed Press (crownpublishing.com)

Daniel R. Day overcame a hardscrabble childhood to gain notoriety in the 1980s for his take on high-end streetwear that remixed luxury-brand logos with his own designs. Basking in the limelight once again, this memoir chronicles a life and career marked with undulating ups and downs. Daniel R. Day—Dapper Dan: Made in Harlem—hardcover, 304 pages, Random House (penguinrandomhouse.com) The storied and romanticized gauchos of Argentina have come to symbolize absolute freedom in wide-open, unspoiled landscapes. Fulfilling a promise made to Juan José Güiraldes, founding president of the Argentine Gaucho Confederation, Argentine photographer Aldo Sessa spent months taking 50,000 images in total. The highlights compiled in this gorgeous tome eternalize the gaucho spirit. Aldo Sessa—Gauchos: Icons of Argentina— hardcover, 190 pages, Assouline (assouline.com)

46 slmag.net

bib 'li' o 'taph, [bib-lee-uhtaf, -tahf ]: a person who caches or hoards books When you can't choose between a man or man's best friend, opt for this collection of 100 clever and comical photographs that pair handsome men with comely canines. Alice Chaygneaud-Dupuy and Marie-Eva Chopin—Men & Dogs—hardcover, 112 pages, TarcherPerigee (penguin.com) During Prohibition, Cincinnatian George Remus, a former pharmacist and criminal defense attorney, is said to have accumulated more wealth than notorious bootlegging gangster Al Capone. Author Bob Batchelor outlines the fascinating rise and fall of the hoodlum bon vivant, who built an empire on hooch. Bob Batchelor—The Bourbon King: The Life and Crimes of George Remus, Prohibition's Evil Genius—hardcover, 336 pages, Diversion Books (diversionbooks.com) Photographer Rose Callahan and writer Nathaniel “Natty” Adams document the well-kept lives of 57 contemporary, cultivated gentlemen that hail from varying countries, cultures and social circles. Nathanial Adams & Rose Callahan—I an Dandy: The Return of the Elegant Gentleman— hardcover, 288 pages, Gestalten (us.gestalten.com)

Part history lesson and part lifestyle guide, this witty book chronicles the roots of the English gentleman and traces them to present day. Gustav Temple—How to be Chap: The surprisingly sophisticated habits, drinks and clothes of the modern gentleman—hardcover, 272 pages, Gestalten (us.gestalten.com)

slmag.net

47

BREAKING THE MOLD

Lotus unveils the world's most potent all-electric production car Written by Andre James This past July at the Royal Horticultural Halls in the heart of London, the oohs and aahs emanating from hundreds of VIP guests were louder than the engine of the hypercar they'd gathered to ogle. Guests were greeted outside the event by a convoy of a dozen historic and current Lotus cars, all sporting a blazing yellow paint job. This bold statement paled in comparison to the unveiling of the world's first all-electric British hypercar: the Lotus Evija.

As he presented the nearly 2,000 horsepower two-seater to the audience, Phil Popham, CEO of Lotus Cars remarked, "The Evija is a seismic shift for Lotus and signifies the rebirth of one of the UK's most renowned sports car marques. It will act as a halo for the thrilling new range of Lotus performance cars that will follow."

Limited to 130 examples, the Evija (pronounced 'E-vi-ya'), means 'the first in existence' or 'the living one.' As Lotus' first hypercar, and its first model with an electrified powertrain, it represents a new chapter for the 71-year-old sports car brand.

The Evija is also the first Lotus road car to feature a onepiece carbon-fiber monocoque chassis; the manufacturing 48 slmag.net

process is identical to that of an F1 chassis. Russell Carr, Design Director of Lotus Cars, explained, "We studied how Le Mans race cars use airflow creatively to go over, under and around the vehicle, but also through it. This concept of 'porosity' is key to the Evija and has enabled us to create a timeless design with exceptional amounts of downforce." Motorsport-inspired road car design and technology is expressed throughout, from the Venturi tunnel that pierces each rear quarter to the adjustable race-style seats.

To minimize drag, traditional door mirrors are strikingly absent.

Cameras integrated into the front wings electronically deploy on unlock, as well as another camera built into the roof. Their images are displayed on three interior screens. Also missing are door handles.

The pair of dihedral doors are operated via the key fob. Once in the car, a switch in the roof console closes the doors.

The advanced all-electric powertrain was developed in tandem with Williams Advanced Engineering, of Formula One and Formula E fame. The 2,000 kW lithium-ion battery pack is mid-mounted behind the passenger compartment and directs

energy to four e-motors, each producing a peak 493 horsepower.

This configuration represents the lightest and most energy-dense electric power package ever fitted to a road car, making Evija the lightest pure electric hypercar ever to go into series production.

Torque-vectoring is fully automatic and self-adjusting, so that power is distributed to any combination of two, three, or four wheels within a fraction of a second. ESP stability control ensures safety in all road conditions.

Evija clocks the 0-62mph sprint in under three seconds, before going on to a top speed in excess of 200mph. Lotus points out that the car's advanced aerodynamics and four-radiator cooling package keep the battery at an optimum temperature, meaning that the Evija is capable of being driven flat-out with no derate for at least seven minutes in Track mode. A digitally created sound, transmitted via a front-mounted speaker, alerts pedestrians to Evija's presence.

Fully charged, the Evija's range is between 250-270 miles.

Using existing charging technology, charge time will be 12 mins to 80% and 18 mins to 100%.

The 'floating wing' dashboard is arguably the most striking feature of the cabin, which Carr said was inspired by Lotus' prototype racing cars from the late Fifties and early Sixties. "It reinforces Colin Chapman's cast-iron rule that no Lotus component goes along for a free ride, " added Carr.

Carbon fiber shell seats are hand-trimmed with thick Alcantara-finished pads. A thin metal band – engraved with the words 'For The Drivers' – runs centrally through the squab of both. Ahead of the steering wheel is a state-of-the-art digital display, providing the driver with key information. The screen displays essential functions only, with information appearing as required when the appropriate button is pushed, then fading when no longer needed. Further controls are located on the floating 'ski slope-style' center console.

Priced from just over $2m, Lotus will offer Evija customers the opportunity to specify the car precisely as they wish, including unique paint finishes, interior trims, and detailing. Designed and engineered in the UK, production is scheduled to begin at Lotus’ Hethel headquarters in 2020. sl slmag.net

49

CAMEO APPEARANCE A fresh perspective on an ancient art form

Compiled by Claire Williams

Clockwise from top left: Sylva & Cie Lava cameo drop earrings with rough diamond slice ($38,875; sylvacie.com). Sardonyx shell cameo horse earrings with black diamonds and tiger eye cabochons ($6,200; amedeo.com). Black lava cameo Memento Mori bracelet with black diamonds from Amedeo ($7,900; amedeo.com). One-of-a-kind all around bracelet with bronze, coin, intaglio, mosaic, and lava cameo in 24K gold from Gurhan ($11,500; gurhan.com). Munch's Logs cufflinks designed by Catherine Opie. Sardonyx cameo set in 18k light pink gold (lizworks.net). Munch's Logs Sardonyx cameo cufflinks designed by Catherine Opie (price upon request: lizworks.net).

50 slmag.net

Clockwise from top left: Sylva & Cie Venetian cameo necklace ($52,875; sylvacie.com). Teardrop lava cameo necklace from Gurhan ($5,500; gurhan.com). Pensive sardonyx cameo earrings in 18k light pink gold with pink and lemon quartz. Designed by Cindy Sherman (price upon request; lizworks.net). Dressed cameo ring with silver, diamonds, red sapphires, enamel, and agate from Lydia Courteille (price upon request; LydiaCourteille.com). Skull cameo cufflinks from Deakin & Francis ($176; deakinandfrancis.co.uk). Wilfredo Rosado Lips pendant shell cameo pendant with 18k yellow gold and diamond ($12,200; wilfredorosado.com). Sardonyx shell cameo elephant ring with black diamonds from Amedeo ($1,900; amedeo.com).

slmag.net

51

BRONZE AGE

Offering the potential for a unique patina that develops over time, bronze has become the “it” metal for approachable luxury watches. Compiled by Bridget Williams

Clockwise from top left: Montblanc 1858 Geosphere Limited Edition 42mm with bronze-coated titanium case back ($6,300; montblanc.com). 42mm self-winding Baume et Mercier Clifton Club bronze is available in four dial versions ($2,790; baume-et-mercier.com).. Panerai Luminor Submersible 1950 Bronzo 47MM ($11,500; panerai.com). The limited edition Tockr D-Day C-47 “Alfred Pepper" features a bronze case and a dial cut from salvaged aircraft material from the “That’s All, Brother” aircraft, which led the D-Day invasion into Normandy ($2,700; tockr.com/dday). Zenith 45mm Pilot Type 20 with bronze case and camouflage fabric strap with protective rubber lining ($7,700; zenith-watches.com).

Graham Chronofighter Vintage Bronze 44mm with black rubber mesh pattern strap (price upon request; graham1695.com).

52 slmag.net

Clockwise from top left: The BR V2-94 Bellytanker Bronze from Bell & Ross is a limited edition of 999 pieces ($4,990; bellross.com). Tissot Seastar 1000 Chronograph with a 45.5mm stainless steel case with an antique bronze PVD coating ($605; us.tissotshop.com). U-Boat Limited Edition Chimera 46mm automatic chronograph with aged bronze case and handcrafted embossed leather strap ($7,500; uboatwatch.com). Shinola 43mm Bronze Monster Automatic Dive Watch ($1,650; shinola.com). Tudor Black Bay Bronze 43mm with fabric strap ($4,050; tudorwatch.com). IWC Big Pilot's Watch Heritage with a 46.2mm bronze case ($13,200; iwc.com).

slmag.net

53

CULTURE CLUB

Angama Mara immerses guests in all aspects of Kenya's legendary Maasai Mara National Reserve Written and Photographed by Tony Bailey The notion that one could become dinner en route to dinner is not a thought that ever crossed my mind…until my first night at Angama Mara, a luxury safari resort located just a few degrees south of the Equator in the heart of Kenya's Maasai Mara National Reserve. As a professional photographer, what obviously drew me to Angama Mara were the animals, but what ultimately endeared me to the place was its people, who added an earnest dimension of authenticity to an unapparelled experience.

It would be easy for the Fitzgerald family, who opened the resort in 2015, to let the all-inclusive property's picturesque positioning—the very site where some of the most romantic scenes from Out of Africa were filmed—do all of the heavy lifting, but they don't. Beginning with an early morning tray of tea and biscuits delivered to my suite with a smile as warm as dawn's first light, to helping identify constellations and animal calls that ripple the blanket of night, there are certainly no cookie-cutter experiences to be had.

With a name inspired by the Swahili word for 'suspended in mid-air,' Angama Mara is cited on a bluff some 1,000 feet over the Maasai Mara, high enough for the two camps of tented guest suites to be at eye level with hot air balloons as they float past at daybreak.

54 slmag.net

A far cry from any tent I've camped in, each suite boasts a 30-footwide, floor-to-ceiling glass wall offering unimpeded "pinch me" views in every direction. Keeping you continuously connected with nature, everything in the spacious studio-style suite is oriented to the aforementioned glass wall, including a soaking tub that promises an indulgent afternoon of ogling.

A whistle hanging outside the entrance to each tent serves as a poignant reminder that we are all part of the food chain in this wild place. From dusk to dawn it is used to summon a member of the Maasai tribe who will accompany you as you traverse the property.

Connecting the two camps is The Pavilion, which includes a zeroedge swimming pool, a well-equipped fitness room, a safari shop, and a Maasai design studio.

Angama Mara staff attended to our group's every need from the moment we deplaned in Nairobi. Following a Kenya Air flight in business class that allowed us to arrive well-rested, we made our way to nearby Wilson Airport for a short and exhilarating AirKenya flight to Angama Mara's private airfield, where a herd of zebras lining the runway served as unofficial greeters. From here, you can opt for a 15-minute walk into camp, or get there a bit quicker via Land Cruiser.

Accommodations at Angama Mara are positioned on a bluff 1,000 feet above Kenya's Great Rift Valley Escarpment.

Luxurious tented guest suites provide breathtaking views.

slmag.net

55

Noted architects Silvio Rech and Lesley Carstens designed Angama Mara to be a lodge unlike any other.

56 slmag.net

Governors' Balloon Safaris has been flying over the Maasai Mara since 1972.

As a small lodge, itineraries at Angama Mara are agile and custom-tailored to the interests and abilities of each guest.

Daily' Big Five' safaris take place in the acclaimed Mara triangle.

Excellent for game viewing year-round, there is an uptick in activity during the great migration, which takes place from July to October. Wilderness walks along the Great Rift Valley are proudly led by members of the Maasai tribe, who share aspects of their ancient and fascinating culture. On select evenings, guests are treated to an energizing pre-dinner demonstration of traditional Maasai dancing.

To gain a greater appreciation for the vastness of the landscape and the sheer number of animals who call it home, head up in a hot air balloon. Angama Mara partners with Governors' Balloon Safaris, who has been flying over the Maasai Mara since 1972.

The colorful family members who operate the company boast an immense knowledge of the area along with nerves of steel, which were put on display when, at the end of our hour-long adventure, a charging elephant scuttled our intended landing site. The ensuing maneuvers to ensure the safety of both man and beast provided a jolt of adrenaline and a well-deserved champagne toast to our pilot after returning to terra firma.

Before setting out on any safari, guests are encouraged to visit the Angama Mara photo studio for expert photography advice and the opportunity to rent additional camera equipment. For those itching to see their images on something other than a screen, the studio also offers photo printing services.

During safari days, lunch is safely staged at a photogenic spot that varies from day-to-day. On more than one occasion curious creatures, including a hyena, expressed an interest in accepting (or commandeering) handouts and were swiftly shooed away without incident. Dinner, which is simply sensational, sometimes spicy, and inspired by what camp chefs might have prepared in the early days of being on safari, can be had in the guest area, under the stars, in the bush or in your tent. Our bush barbeque under the stars was an experience I won't soon forget, as was a lavish champagne brunch at the Kopje, where you can recreate your own Out of Africa moment.

Angama Mara grows a fair amount of fruit and vegetables in their one-acre Shamba, or kitchen garden, and the popular Shamba lunch program allows interested guests the opportunity to pick their own ingredients. It is interesting to note that one-third of the menus are designed with vegetarian guests in mind, and their Kenyan chefs can accommodate dietary preferences and restrictions. slmag.net

57

58 slmag.net

slmag.net

59

Simone Musgrave (left), owner of Musgrave Gin, mixing up happy hour libations for resort guests.

60 slmag.net

The Out of Africa kopje featured on the movie's poster is a popular picnic site for guests.

"Every day, our staff ensure that guest delight is everyone's business, and that kindness, warmth, and love are brought to each one of our guest's stays," said Kate Fitzgerald Boyd. To give back to the community that has given so much to them, the Fitzgerald family established the Angama Foundation, which focuses on three areas of impact: education, healthcare, and conservation. It comes as little surprise that Angama Mara was named #1 Safari Lodge in the World by CondĂŠ Nast Traveler's Readers' Choice Awards 2018.

Standing as a silent and solemn testament to the mutual admiration of the hotelier and its guests is a 100-seat chapel erected in memory of co-founder Steve Fitzgerald that opened in December 2018 on what would have been Steve's 65th birthday.

The chapel was built in part using donations that poured in from guests hailing from all corners of the globe as word spread of his untimely passing. Steve's daughter Kate, who runs the lodge with

her mother Nicky, says that her father was the heart of Angama Mara. "There is no doubt in my, or anyone else's, mind that Angama Mara simply would not exist without my father having a crazy dream and the courage to see it through almost four years ago," she said. For more information, visit angama.com.

GETTING THERE: In 2018 Kenya Airways began offering direct flights from JFK to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, using the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft, sparing travelers an arduous layover in Europe or the Middle East. At present, Kenya Airways is the only carrier offering a direct flight between East Africa and the United States (Kenya-airways.com) AirKenya was the first scheduled air operator into the Maasai Mara more than four decades ago, and they remain the only commercial airline that flies to that region. Outside of their scheduled itinerary, the company also offers charter and scenic helicopter flights from their home base at Kenya's Wilson Airport (airkenya.com). sl slmag.net

61

Arrogate #10, ridden by Mike Smith, finishes first ahead of California Chrome #4, ridden by Victor Espinoza, in the the 2016 Breeders' Cup Classic at Santa Anita Park.

Photo by Kaz Ishida

NEW GUEST EXPERIENCES AWAIT RACING FANS AT THE 2019 BREEDERS’ CUP The November event returns to Santa Anita Park for a record-breaking tenth time Written by Claire Williams / Photos Courtesy of Breeders’ Cup An experience worth traveling for, the world’s most prestigious Thoroughbred horseracing event, Breeders’ Cup, combines firstclass dining, entertainment, and celebrities with the sport’s best racing, horses and jockeys. The 2019 event, which will take place on November 1st and 2nd at Santa Anita Park in Southern California, marks the tenth time the Breeders’ Cup will be run at this track, which is picturesquely positioned at the foot of the San Gabriel Mountains.

Since its inception in 1984, Breeders’ Cup has continued to elevate the lifestyle appeal of horseracing by making the annual weekend event a multi-faceted entertainment experience. The hottest ticket this November is for the newly renovated Trackside Marquee. Situated at the quarter pole (top of the stretch), the 62 slmag.net

elegant Marquee offers glassed-in, climate-controlled dining with access to a covered viewing deck and commanding views of the racetrack. Guests will enjoy a gourmet luncheon buffet, allinclusive beer and wine, and a cash bar and cocktail station.

Another new option is the Silks Lounge, which offers a fresh, hip vibe for the casual but sophisticated racing fan. Placed in the infield at a prominent position at the rail, the Silks Lounge allows fans to get right up to the racetrack as the horses run by – an exhilarating viewing experience that is supplemented by multiple TVs placed throughout and a larger video board amidst the Lounge’s open-air seating. Guests will additionally enjoy a luncheon buffet, premium cash bar with cocktail service, private mutual tellers for wagering, and a DJ to keep the energy up between races.

Actress Emily Ratajkowski at the 2016 Breeders' Cup at Santa Anita Park.

Photo by Charley Gallay

Brandon Wesley and Bixby Wesley.

Photo by Doug Engle

The Chandelier Room Photo by Doug Engle

Chelsea Mesa, winner of the Longines Prize of Elegance, at the 2016 event. hoto by Scott Serio

slmag.net

63

For those looking to watch the races from within the Clubhouse, the newly renovated Trackside Dining Level places you right at the rail and offers a catered luncheon and cash cocktail service.

Building off of the momentum of the 2018 event, held at historic Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, which featured some of the culinary industry’s most impressive figures, Breeders’ Cup 2019 will bring several celebrity chefs to Santa Anita to whip up their signature cuisine for fans. Nancy Silverton, the co-owner of Osteria Mozza, Pizzeria Mozza and chi SPACCA in Los Angeles, as well as the founder of the worldfamous La Brea Bakery, will bring her talents to the Frontrunner 64 slmag.net

Restaurant and Bar on Breeders’ Cup Friday and the Turf Terrace on Breeders’ Cup Saturday. Sylvain Delpique, executive chef of New York’s 21 Club, will grace the beautiful appointed Chandelier Room for the full weekend. Adam Perry Lang, barbecue guru and chef/owner of Hollywood’s APL Restaurant, will be cooking for guests of the Trophy Lounge. Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo, two of Los Angeles’ most influential chefs who together own and run multiple restaurants including Animal, Jon & Vinny’s and Son of a Gun, will be cooking for guests of the Turf Terrace on Breeders’ Cup Friday and Frontrunner on Breeders’ Cup Saturday.

For more information and tickets, visit breederscup.com. sl

Autumn’s finest ingredients, including caramelized acorn squash, nuts and fresh pomegranate, take center stage in this nutrient-rich seasonal salad.

By Nutritionist and Health Coach Karina Heinrich / Photography by LX MGMT Fall in love with fall produce while it lasts by enjoying this nutritious salad that perfectly combines the season’s best flavors.

Whether you’re serving this fresh dish at your next dinner party or adding it to your Thanksgiving feast, this Arugula and Caramelized Squash Fall Salad recipe, topped with my very own TKM Ultimate Organic Dressing, will complement your event perfectly. Not only is it as tasteful as it looks, it’s oh-so good for you. And while the seasons change, this homemade healthy dressing should remain a staple all year round.

KARINA’S ARUGULA AND CARAMELIZED SQUASH FALL SALAD INGREDIENTS (Serves 4) THE SALAD: Karina’s Arugula and Caramelized Squash 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 acorn squash (Slice into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Remove the seeds with a serrated spoon.)

1/4 teaspoon pepper (optional) 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon 2 teaspoons honey 1/2 cup whole unsalted walnuts OR pistachios, chopped 1 pomegranate, arils removed (or buy with arils pre-removed) 1 cucumber, sliced 6 to 8 cups baby arugula 1 avocado, sliced thinly

THE DRESSING: TKM Ultimate Organic Dressing Splash of filtered water 1/4 cup organic apple cider vinegar 1/4 cup organic extra virgin olive oil 1/2 lemon squeezed Tiny drop of organic honey 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon PREP: 20 minutes, tops!

Dressing (make first and chill until salad is ready to be served): 1. Combine water, vinegar, lemon, cinnamon and honey in a large bowl and whisk or use a salad dressing shaker.

2. Slowly pour in olive oil while whisking until the dressing comes together.

3. Store in refrigerator for up to one week.

Salad (you’ll need a large skillet and a small skillet): 1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil.

2. Add squash slices (and optional pepper) to the skillet and cook until golden (3 to 5 minutes per side). Optional: Add honey to help the squash caramelize.

3. Heat a small saucepan over low heat and add unsalted walnuts or pistachios. Toast until slightly golden. Stir the nuts as they toast for about 5 minutes. Don’t let them burn. Sprinkle nuts with cinnamon.

4. Put arugula into a large serving bowl.

5. Add cucumbers, nuts, squash pieces, pomegranate arils and top with avocado. Lightly cover the salad in the dressing or serve it on the side.

Karina Heinrich, International Certified Integrative Nutritionist and Accountability Health Coach, achieves unmatched success in helping clients reach optimal wellness and weight loss through her breakthrough nutrition movement The Karina Method. @thekarinamethod

slmag.net

65

SOPHISTICATED SOURCE

Double Steel Bowl, $110; and Moiré Steel Tray, $105; Alessi, Saks Fifth Avenue, Fashion Show, 702.733.8300

66 slmag.net

Unravel Python Jacket Resort 20’, $3,595, VMR, vmrchicago.com

Delilah Animal-Print Floor Mirror, $1,799, Haute House, Neiman Marcus, 702.731.3636

Martyn Lawrence Bullard’s Hermitage collection of antiqued mirrored tiles in Python, price upon request, Ann Sacks, annsacks.com

Save the Wild Elephant Brooch, $35,000; Save the Wild Lion Brooch, $12,000; and Save the Wild Rhino Brooch, $20,000; Tiffany & Co., The Shops at Crystals, 702.545.9090

18K Gold Diamond & AnimalPrint Necklace, $3,160; and Hoop Earrings, $2,260; Adolfo Courrier, Neiman Marcus, 702.731.3636

Nymphenburg Rhinoceros Clara in Black Bisque, $4,790, Kneen & Co, kneenandco.com Dora Mixed Animal-Print Knee Boots, $995, Alexandre Birman, Neiman Marcus, 702.731.3636 Tessuto Soft Leopard Zip Pouch w/ Chain, $895, Prada, Neiman Marcus, 702.731.3636 Haas Monster Incense Burner, $975, L’Object, The Design Bar, thedesignbars.com

slmag.net

67

From top to bottom, left to right: Low top “Off-Court” 3.0 sneakers in white with orange patches, $640. White and fuchsia sneakers with black arrow at side, $690. White and beige runner sneaker with brown arrow patch, $740. Fuchsia ODSY- 1000 sneakers with orange arrows at side, $815. High top “Off-Court” 3.0 sneakers in black with orange details, $780. Leather low top “Off-Court” 3.0 sneakers in black and white, $320. Black low top sneakers with black and white striped rubber sole, $260. Medium gray runner sneakers with white arrow patch, $690.

Available at Off-White, Wynn Plaza, off---white.com

68 slmag.net

Crackle collection, price upon request, by Ann Sacks at LuxeHome in theMART, 312.923.0919.

Hirondelles Bracelet, $495, Lalique, Neiman Marcus, Fashion Show, 702.731.3636

Wool gloves with mirrored GG, $415, Gucci, The Forum Shops at Caesars, 702.369.7333

Pair of “Dusk in Pastel� Wall Art by Carol Benson Cobb, $2,000, Benson-Cobb Studios, Neiman Marcus, Fashion Show, 702.731.3636

Fineline Wenge handless vanity with Emerald Green quartzite, Custom Chroma countertop, metallic textured wallpaper, modern Dornbracht faucet, price upon request, Eggersmann, eggersmannusa.com

HiMirror Mini, $119, himirror.com

Poseidon Vase, $17,500, Lalique, Neiman Marcus, Fashion Show, 702.731.3636

Incense Burner in 18/10 stainless steel and wood, Alessi, Saks Fifth Avenue, Fashion Show, 702.733.8300

slmag.net

69

OnTop Nero Marquina laminate, price upon request, Formica Group, Peterman Lumber, 5625 Arville Street, 702.430.3433

70 slmag.net

Hella Rich Snakeskin Trench, $70, Akira, shopakira.com

Druggist Coaster Set, $78, Jonathan Adler, jonathanadler.com

Tailored multicolor blazer and Bermuda pant, price upon request, by Heron Preston at VMR, vmrchicago.com

Gone Girl Sunglasses, $670, Louis Vuitton, The Shops at Crystals, 702.262.6189

Sharon Tate: Recollection, $27, Debra Tate, amazon.com

Piper Leather Ankle Boots, $995, Gianvito Rossi, Saks Fifth Avenue, Fashion Show, 702.733.8300

Matrix Yarrow Gold Chair, $599, Article, article.com

slmag.net

71

Femme, price available upon request, by Francine Turk, francineturk.com.

72 slmag.net

Suede Moto Jacket, $198, BLANKNYC, Nordstrom, Fashion Show, 702.862.2525

BOYY Romeo PVC Color Block Handbag, $750, olivela.com

CRUZ 65 Black Grainy Calf Leather Lace-Up Combat Boots with Crystal, $1,350, Jimmy Choo, The Shops at Crystals, 702.366.0503

Leather Belt with GG Buckle, $460, Gucci, Neiman Marcus, Fashion Show, 702.731.3636

Mugler Resort 20’ Trench Coat, $1,990, VMR, vmrchicago.com

Brass & Leather Wine Rack, $295, Jayson Home, jaysonhome.com

Bolero Decorative Pillow 14x26, $338; and 22x22, $360; V Rugs & Home, Bedside Manor, shopbedside.com

slmag.net

73

A LOT TO VIEW

A MacDonald Highlands homeowner loved the neighboring lot so much, he moved next door. Here’s how he made the switch, with the help of Sun West and designer Karla Isais.

By Rob Kachelriess / Photography by Anthony Mair

It’s easy to argue that the homes at MacDonald Highlands have the best views in Southern Nevada. The Las Vegas Valley slopes in the direction of the Henderson community, offering expansive, sweeping sightlines of the entire city, including the Strip, Downtown and the airport.

“At night, the valley is glistening,” says Brian Fettner. “It’s a spectacular Hollywood Hills look.”

Fettner, a sports agent who also spends time in Boca Raton, Florida, researched and explored a number of highend neighborhoods before buying a second home in Las Vegas.

Finally, he enlisted Sun West to design and construct a custom estate in the upper rim of MacDonald Highlands. He was sold on the convenience and character—and yes, those incredible views—of the Black Mountain foothills community. Access to the DragonRidge Country Club and its golf course didn’t hurt either.

But it wasn’t enough. He really wanted the lot next door.

Someone had been sitting on it since 2009. “I hunted him down,” Fettner remembers. Eventually, the lot owner responded with a set of conditions: “I’ll sell it to you. Gotta be for cash, gotta close in two weeks,” he was told.

So despite already building his dream home, the dream got bigger and Fettner seized the opportunity. “I just felt this was my one chance,” he says.

Fettner again recruited Sun West, which broke ground in late 2017. By the following October, the home was complete.

Spanning 8,863 square feet, the two-story residence has four bedrooms, an office and windows from every angle to soak in all that stunning scenery. Fettner believes he scored the best lot in MacDonald Highlands, with not only high elevation and unobstructed views, but neighbors tucked out of sight.

“This is the 50-yard line,” says Fettner, speaking the language of his profession. “My neighbors look right over my roof.”

74 slmag.net

Pocket doors disappear into the walls, opening up the pool deck to the great room.

slmag.net

75

The homeowner is fond of gray colors, but it was important for the master bedroom to feel warm. Its shape and tall ceilings allowed for a 3D-tile headboard feature wall. The room’s fantastic view is revealed by blackout drapery with automation controls.

The home has a powerful yet efficient presence. No space is wasted on a sprawling courtyard or winding driveway. Guests are immediately greeted with a heavy pivoting glass door, towering 14-foot ceilings, a spacious great room and an open floor plan that merges effortlessly with the kitchen and full wet bar. Tall, majestic glass pocket doors disappear completely into the walls, revealing an expansive outdoor pool deck that includes a waterfall, lounge and eye-catching features such as a sunken firepit in the middle of the water. It’s an idea Fettner borrowed from his previous home, which is now being put to good use as a rental.

The seamless blend of indoor and outdoor spaces is reflected in the Italian marble that forms not only the exterior of the home, but the interior of the great room and parts of the pool. The light hues are balanced out by subtle touches of brown, adding character and dimension to a bright, open living space with similar tones in the woodlike ceramic tile flooring that also crosses boundaries into the pool deck.

The colors are complemented by prominent displays of natural wood, including long glulam beams that span the ceiling as well as hickory in the staircase and bedroom doors. The interior was designed and decorated by Karla Isais, who knew the importance of introducing warm elements to prevent the modern architecture from feeling too cold or sterile. Most of the furniture was sourced from Italian brands, most notably a commanding Bracci sectional that anchors the center of the great room.

76 slmag.net

Isais handled Fettner’s previous home too, so she was already familiar with her client’s style and personal preferences.

“It’s so important. Even if you’re making all the decisions, having a good designer like Karla is everything,” says Fettner.

Together, they spent money wisely, not wasting it for the sake of extravagance. Expenses were cut when it made sense. Sun West owner Dan Coletti suggested pushing the house back a bit, so it wouldn’t hang over the side of the nearly half-acre property. The decision eliminated the need for a retaining wall and saved about $100,000 in concrete work. All said and done, the home is worth $6 million with furniture.

“People who have money-spending problems can rationalize anything,” says Fettner. “They can buy a $700 pair of shoes.

‘What’s more important than what’s on your feet?’ They can buy a $10,000 bed. ‘What’s more important than where you sleep?’

You can rationalize anything, and you actually have a pretty good argument. However, you will go broke.”

One thing the homeowner wouldn’t compromise on was the master closet. He asked Coletti, “Can’t we make it bigger?

Can’t you blow the wall out? I want you to be kinda embarrassed by the size of this closet.” Coletti worked on his draft and came back with a new, over-the-top design. “And I said, ‘Are you embarrassed?’” remembers Fettner. “He went, ‘Yeah, I’m kinda embarrassed.’ I said, ‘We’re good!’”

The homeowner and designer spent time finding the perfect natural stone for the master bathroom shower. It’s also used in the bedroom fireplace.

Even the bathrooms are decorated with art and color in mind.

slmag.net

77

The great room is the first area seen when entering the home. The space is a balance of warm natural materials against gray tile and marble.

Each piece of art was carefully selected to balance the bold power of the architecture.

78 slmag.net

Every guest room has its own individual sense of style. The custom orange metal bed is from Johnston Casuals.

A large guest room is bold and elegant with a forest green Nathan Anthony bed, antique bronze accents and graphic wallpaper on the ceiling. The photograph by Richard Bernardin was sourced through These Fine Walls.

slmag.net

79

Black metal Sonneman light fixtures were selected to not interfere with the view from the kitchen. A blue-tinted mosaic backsplash and a kitchen counter of granite slab with silver flecks add glamour to the space. The Italian bar stools and nook table were purchased through Las Vegas Design Center.

Views are seen from every corner of the home, including the dining room.

80 slmag.net

The main pool deck is all Vondom outdoor furniture. The style complements the angled and unconventional furnishings in the great room and kitchen.

There was also little room for compromise on the master bedroom, which dominates the northeast corner of the home. A glass wall fixture, marble bench and crystal fireplace are countered by dark, rugged tile flooring. “It has this hint of rust and metallic copper,” says Isais. “It’s a fun-looking tile.”

Of course, the master has its own large pocket doors with those incredible Vegas views. Fettner loves to leave them open at night when the weather is just right. “Sometimes you’ll hear coyotes howling, and the dogs get upset,” he says. “You don’t want it that nature-ish.”

The “top-heavy” main level is rounded out with another bedroom that’s nearly a second master, a dining room with a 350-bottle LED-enhanced wine rack and parking garages for three cars. The lower floor has two smaller bedrooms, a sunken ovalshaped television lounge and an office that’s strictly for pencils and paperwork. “I don’t meet clients here, it’s not that kind of office,” says Fettner. More important is the sliding door where his three dogs—-two Jack Russell terriers and a dachshund—can have their own coyote-protected play area. A spiral staircase leads back up to the pool deck in case the balance of work and fun needs to be quickly adjusted.

Less pressing to Fettner is the kitchen, which he barely uses. So he asked Coletti to remove a few cabinets and add yet another window instead. It just made sense for a guy who prefers to order food than make it. “I don’t even cook,” he says.

“I’ve never used the oven.” Yet the kitchen is still gourmetquality with a Sub-Zero refrigerator, self-close cabinets, granite countertops and a pair of large islands with extra storage. “I have two dishwashers I’ve never used,” he adds.

And let’s just face it: The house is sexy. The artwork seduces with female imagery and glimpses of tasteful nudity. A tiger print in the dining room was sourced from National Geographic Fine Art Galleries. Local artist Eric Vozzola was commissioned for a graphic on the bedroom wallpaper. As functional as they are, the delicate overhead light fixtures by Sonneman and Circa serve as artwork in their own right. Even the powder room is a spectacle with dark, compelling hues and a long water faucet that hangs from the ceiling.

Fettner invites his star athletes to stay when they’re visiting Las Vegas, but he rarely hosts parties—almost a shame considering the property’s stunning recreational features. “It’s a great party home, but I’m not a great party guy,” he says.

The 51-year-old prefers to spend time on the greens of DragonRidge, which he calls one of the best golf courses in the country. It’s clear the Cincinnati native is relishing his time in Las Vegas, watching the fruits of his labor pay off after building a rewarding and inspired career from the ground up.

And in case you’re wondering, the views from that lot never get old. “It’s not like I was born a Kennedy,” Fettner says with reflection. “So I totally breathe it in.” sl slmag.net

81

Cause for Celebration

As The Shade Tree Grows, the life-changing organization honors pop powerhouse Christina Aguilera at its 30th anniversary gala.

By Camille Cannon Since 1989, The Shade Tree in North Las Vegas has been a lifeline to women in crisis escaping domestic violence, sexual assault, homelessness, abuse and human trafficking. The nonprofit shelter provides a safe place for women, their children and their pets to live temporarily. It also offers life-changing services such as on-site courses, workforce readiness training and medical clinics designed to prepare women for self-reliant and stable lives.

These programs and services, of course, depend on funding and community partnerships. Thanks to over 170 community sponsors in a project spearheaded by Wynn Las Vegas, The Shade Tree completed $2.5 million in renovations earlier this year. Now, in honor of The Shade Tree’s 30th anniversary, the nonprofit, led by new executive director Linda Perez, will produce its most ambitious fundraising event: the Mask Off Gala.

To be held Oct. 3 in the Arts District’s historic Mansion 54 and inspired by the whimsical and quirky cinematic universe created by Tim Burton, Mask Off promises live music, cuisine from beloved Downtown Vegas chefs, performances by the Strip’s aerial/aqua ballet extravaganza Le Rêve-The Dream, and an appearance by the guest of honor, Christina Aguilera.

For years, the five-time Grammy winner Aguilera has been open about her personal connection to domestic abuse, in songs such as “Oh Mother” and “Hurt,” and in interviews. “Not everybody likes to wear it on their sleeve and talk about it,” she told US Weekly in 2015. “It makes people uncomfortable, and there’s a lot of shame around it. But that’s why for me, it’s so important for me to speak my truth and help others to find theirs, and to find their own hope in a hopeless situation.”

For The Shade Tree’s Perez, the commitment to this cause is also personal.

“I’m a survivor of domestic violence as well,” she says. “I’m very grounded in my faith, and I believe that I am continuing to do the work that I was called to do.” Having worked in nonprofits for the past 10 years, and with survivors of domestic violence for the past five, Perez was most recently the executive director of a domestic assault shelter in her home state of Indiana. She moved to Las Vegas in late 2018, and began her new role in April.

In May, just months after Aguilera announced her debut residency, Christina Aguilera: The Xperience, in Planet Hollywood’s Zappos Theater, the pop superstar shared the news that $1 from every ticket purchased to her show would benefit The Shade Tree. Shortly after, Perez says Aguilera agreed to accept an award for her activism as guest of honor at The Shade Tree’s gala.

Aguilera was particularly candid about the impact of domestic violence in her March 2018 cover story with Paper magazine. “I hate when people say, ‘Why doesn’t she just leave?’ There’s psychological damage and mental abuse that comes with being in a situation like that. A lot of people don’t have the ability to vocalize it themselves or have the know-how to get out.”

82 slmag.net

Education, Perez says, is central to The Shade Tree’s mission. While the gala has an intended fundraising goal of $700,000 to continue—and improve—its services, the second goal for the gala is more important: creating awareness. “Domestic violence and these crisis situations are topics that we want people to talk about,” she says. “The statistics are such that you or someone you know has or will be affected by domestic violence unless we’re educating our loved ones.”

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, one in three women and one in four men have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner in their lifetime. In one year, that number averages more than 10 million people.

“For children, it is huge to be able to talk to your loved ones about it,” says Perez. “I grew up in it. That was normal to me. If you grow up in a home with domestic violence, the chances of you becoming an abuser or a victim are extremely high. This is a topic people don’t like to talk about, but we have to talk about it. We have to break the cycle.”

And while the subject matter is serious, this 30th anniversary gala is most certainly still a cause for celebration. “Celebrating may sound a little weird because of what we do,” says Perez. “We’re celebrating the families that we have been able to help and the clients for whom we have been able to make a difference. We’re celebrating our partnership with [neighboring animal shelter] Noah’s Animal House because a lot of people in crisis will not leave their situations because of their pets. We’re highlighting 30 years of being in the community and impacting someone’s life.” sl theshadetree.org

slmag.net

83

Kir-Yianni vineyard

A SIP TRIP THROUGH GREECE Four must-drink bottles from the epicenter of modern wine culture

By Marisa Finetti Greece is the birthplace of Western civilization and thanks to an extensive stake in trade and colonization, it gave way to the earliest beginnings of wine culture in Western Europe. The Celts imported Greece’s wines to Gaul (ancient France) more than a thousand years before Benedictine monks laid down the foundation for what is today’s Burgundy region. The Greeks also established the first vineyards in modern-day Provence and Sicily. Yet, despite all the hegemony as one of the most important wine producers of antiquity, Greece has had an uphill climb into the modern wine world. Having been underrated for years, Greek wines are finally getting greater attention from sommeliers and oenophiles. To understand Greece’s wine you must become fully immersed in its smell, its taste and its feel—a journey awaits in every glass.

Bathed in three seas—the Aegean, the Mediterranean and the Ionian—Greece gives the impression of being made up as much of water as it is of land. Mountainous landscapes tumble down to rugged peninsulas and a smattering of islands.

Greece is a runway model. A head-turner, its charm inescapable.

But, her beauty runs deeper in the people, the culture and history, and ultimately the wines that emerge from roots that have driven down to the soul of the nation. Despite the political and economic setbacks, wars and market challenges, not to mention pests that ravaged through European vines, Greece has set out to return anew. And in turn, educated wine enthusiasts are discovering its wine with curious fervor.

Greece offers the opportunity to dive deep into the heart of its native offerings. Greeks embrace the grapes of their islands— more than 300 autochthonous varieties and counting. Savvy drinkers are inquisitive, looking for the next great grape for unlimited discovery of new expressions in the glass.

“I’m curious, which is why I like to taste them,” says Master Sommelier Ira Harmon. “And Greek food is so delicious, why wouldn’t Greek wine be delicious, too?”

Sophisticated palates are increasingly favoring terroir-driven wines, of which Greece offers many. Native varieties such as 84 slmag.net

Assyrtiko, the floral Moscofilero, full-bodied Agiorgitiko and well-structured Xinomavro each perform particularly well at showcasing their terroir.

“Modern winemakers of Greece are also choosing highelevation vineyards and considering exposures more than they ever had in the past,” says Ted Diamantis of Diamond Importers.

“This has improved the quality of the fruit they are producing, which leads to better, more focused wines.”

The days of homogenous wines are moving to the background as the sense of place found in each glass creates virtual “sip trips” to distinct regions, appellations, even single vineyards throughout the Hellenic wine spectrum.

Greece’s wine revival has also meant that grapes that were on the brink of extinction now are making wine lists around the globe.

Vassilis Logothetis, an oenology professor, came across a wild and ancient vine growing on a dilapidated pergola. Until his discovery in the 1970s, nobody had heard of this grape, which we now know today as Malagousia. Winemaker Vangelis Gerovassiliou began experimental vinification with the grape, and today it’s considered the quintessence of the modern renaissance of new wines in Greece.

Whether vinified in blends or as a single varietal, the grape is prized for its aromatic expressions, finesse and balance. Today, Malagousia grapes are grown throughout Greece.

But some grapes are bound to a specific place. Along the volcanic island of Santorini overlooking the deep blue caldera, Assyrtiko are indigenous vines of the island that produce dry, crisp wines that recall the sea and the volcano. Amid Santorini’s charming whitewashed buildings with blue domes, the terrain is scrubby with feather-light, crunchy, bone-white pumice and heavy black lava rocks. The vines themselves are unique. Trained into circular wreaths that rest on the ground, the grapes are sheltered within from the sea gusts and scorching sun. In a glass of Assyrtiko, salinity meets minerality and undeniably pairs perfectly with the fish that come straight out of the nearby sea.

Yet another viticulturally productive winegrowing region is the Peloponnese—home to the famous ancient sites of Sparta and Olympia. It’s as important as a whole in Greek history as for its wine. Located in the southernmost tip of the Balkan Peninsula, separated from the mainland by the Corinth Canal, it is distinguishable by its finger-like projections. Homer referred to the area as Ampeloessa, meaning “full of vines,” and there is evidence that wine was made here as early as 4,000 years ago. A wide range of Greek and international grape varieties are covered by these appellations, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and native varieties such as Agiorgitiko and Moscofilero.

Moving north to Macedonia’s slopes of Mount Vermio, the vineyards of Naoussa are centered around full-bodied, intense, tannic red wines produced from the native Xinomavro (which means “acid black”). Xinomavro’s thick, dark grape skins and extra pips give it tremendous tannin and structure to contribute to ageability. It is often compared to Italy’s reigning Nebbiolodriven wines of Barolo and Barbaresco.

Enjoying a long and illustrious history of winemaking is Crete, the farthest southern island of Greece. While winemaking appellations are spread east to west across the 150-mile-long island, most of the vineyards are planted on the northern side, where sites are cooled by Aegean Sea breezes and extensive mountain ranges shelter vineyards from hot North African winds. Cretan mainstays are Liatiko, Vilana and Kotsifali, which often are blended with international grapes, including Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah.

Greece has much to offer for the restless wine lover—the ones driven by rarity, the ones who gravitate to classics, the ones who seek ageability, even the ones who drink the wines made from grapes we still know nothing of.

Wine writer and luminary Jancis Robinson wrote earlier this year that Greece “ticks all the right boxes,” referring to wine regions to watch. Now it’s time to try.

SKOURAS SALTO MOSCOFILERO 2018 The single-clone Moscofilero bottling by Skouras is grown at high altitude in Mantineia, made mostly from free-run juice and fermented in tanks with indigenous yeasts and a short aging on the fine lees. Moscofilero’s aromatic, whitepink variety ushers in explosive aromas of familiarity—white flowers and Fruity Pebbles cereal leading to spicy lemon and undertones of rose. Its high acidity is mouthwatering and coaxes more than one sip.

DOMAINE SIGALAS ASSYRTIKO 2018 Tended from black lava, volcanic ash and pumice is Sigalas’ elegant and mouth-filling 100 percent Assyrtiko. Universally acclaimed for producing Santorini’s star grape, Sigalas delivers excellent structure and depth of flavor. The richly textured wine showcases sun-drenched ripe tropical fruits, a subtle citrus twang and minerality that reminds of the Mediterranean. Notably, this white wine is excellent for aging.

DOULOUFAKIS DAFNIOS LIATIKO 2016 Liatiko, one of Crete’s noblest indigenous red grapes, was historically used for sun-dried sweet wines, but increasingly explored for dry table reds, such as this 100 percent Liatiko bottling. Ruby hues with a glimmer of orange reflections deliver aromas of cherry cola, a bramble of berries and olives, while its elegant texture reminds of tobacco and tea leaves.

KIR-YIANNI RAMNISTA XINOMAVRO 2016 The single vineyard Xinomavro is iconic of the grape variety’s familiarities, mingling earthiness, rusticity and freshness.

Handpicked from some of the estate’s oldest vines, the wine is heady with dark plum and black cherries, leather, savory herbs and licorice. Its high acid, with deep, powerful tannins, contributes to its ability to age for many years, even decades. sl slmag.net

85

Flora y Fauna

CASTING A MEZCAL SPELL

A James Beard-Award winner brings the magic of mezcal to Park MGM with Mama Rabbit.

By David Himmel / Potraits and Food by Krystal Ramirez; Interiors by Mikayla Whitmore Mama Rabbit Mezcal + Tequila Bar at Park MGM is pure Oaxaca, Mexico, a place that produces about 90 percent of the world’s mezcal—tequila’s more posh and smoky cousin. Conceived by the person credited with introducing the spirit to the United States, James Beard-Award winner and Oaxaca native Bricia Lopez, the bar is a mecca for mezcal. Opening to the public Mexican Independence Day weekend, it aims to convert non-mezcal drinkers and give those familiar with it a place to explore and discover all this drink—and Lopez’s homeland—has to offer.

Dubbed the Oaxacan Princess by late Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Jonathan Gold, Lopez is quick to tell me that she’s not really royalty. Yet, when it comes to mezcal, she does hail from a remarkable bloodline. Born in Mitla, Oaxaca, Lopez grew up in the trade of producing mezcal. Her grandfather, father, aunts, uncles and cousins all made or make it. Her father moved to L.A. in 1994 and opened Guelaguetza, a James-Beard Award-winning restaurant. To little surprise, mezcal came with him.

“We didn’t set out to make it a thing,” Lopez tells me over the enticing music playing at Mama Rabbit a few weeks before 86 slmag.net

opening. “We just brought our culture with us. In Oaxaca, we have such a connection to fire and smoke. That connection transcends through everything we make. Mezcal happens to be one of those items.”

She remembers a time when mezcal was hard to find in L.A., or anywhere in the U.S. for that matter. After each visit back home, she’d return to L.A. with a suitcase filled with little bottles of mezcal for her friends. Unlike bootleggers of the early 20th century, Lopez didn’t peddle in money or power; she dealt in knowledge and flavor.

She’s widely known throughout L.A. as the city’s official mezcalera, but Las Vegas—and the fine culinary offerings at Park MGM—demand more than another L.A. transplant eager to scream, “Vegas, baby!” Lopez says that Mama Rabbit is going to redefine what it means to be a Las Vegas bar. Coming from the mouth of most any other bar owner, it’d be easy to dismiss this statement as a practiced talking point. But Lopez has bona fides, and her approach is different.

She’s not trying to bring the people to Oaxaca, she’s bringing Oaxacan taste and culture to the people.

slmag.net

87

Bricia Lopez

“I really want to change people’s perception of what a Mexican bar is, what Mexican cocktails are,” she says. “To be a female-driven bar championing the culture of not just Mexico but of Oaxaca … to show that the food, the spirits, are just as great as any European categories.”

Her role as an Oaxacan woman working in mezcal is not lost on Lopez. The ancients used mezcal as an elixir, and the bar’s name is an homage to that practice. The story, according to Lopez, goes that Mayahuel, the goddess of agave and fertility, was mother to 400 rabbits, which she nourished with mezcal and tequila, products of the agave plant. “When you look at ancient Mexican culture, you see the role women had in society and how the matriarchs are the ones who carry on the traditions,” she says.

The cocktail possibilities of mezcal are seemingly endless. Where tequila is made from only the blue agave plant, mezcal can be made from more than 30 species of agave. A mezcal neophyte, as I still am, might liken mezcal to wine. Like the grape, different kinds of agave plants from different regions produce different-tasting mezcal. But 88 slmag.net

that’s where the similarities end. And Oaxaca isn’t exactly a cocktail kind of place. Which is perhaps why Lopez chooses a different analogy. One closer to her native culture.

“It’s like salsa,” she says. “There are so many different tomatoes that can make salsa. And each one will create a different taste.”

The range of tastes, Lopez says, is “crazy.” A step in producing mezcal is roasting the plant underground for several days, which is where it gets its smokiness. It is never aged, so the unique flavors are that of the particular agave plant coming through. Embracing those natural flavors, Mama Rabbit offers about 30 specialty cocktails. In a scene where specialty cocktails rarely feel special, Mama Rabbit’s drinks stay true to their categorization. Lopez learned what makes a great mezcal cocktail from her time as L.A.’s mezcalera. It’s using Oaxacan spices and salt, and knowing which varietal belongs where.

“Mezcal is that drink that you continuously find differences,” she says. “You enjoy the process and enjoy the moment and flavors that linger on your palate for hours.”

Mural by Spanish artist Okuda San Miguel depicts Mayahuel overlooking a field of agave.

The carpet

Dama Blanca

Mama Rabbit’s DJ booth

slmag.net

89

Mama Rabbit’s Salsa Trio, Carne Asada Taco, Ceviche Tostada, Street Quesadilla, and Guacamole

90 slmag.net

slmag.net

91

Ceviche Toastada with rock shrimp, avocado and citrus

Mama Rabbit is not a restaurant, but it does offer a handful of items, including tacos and mole, for which her father’s restaurant is famous (its website URL is, after all, ilovemole.com). “Our world, our culture, revolves around food,” Lopez says. “You want something to soak up the liquor so you can keep enjoying it.”

It’s not hard to want to keep enjoying the liquor and the food. Mama Rabbit is not just a bar—it’s an escape to a different kind of place. The 4,400-square-foot space has a Las Vegas nightlife allure that pairs perfectly with its vibrant Oaxacaninspired art and live entertainment. It’s relaxing, welcoming. Even for the daywalkers who can stop at the double-sided bar to grab some of Mama Rabbit’s elixir as they make their way along the rest of the Strip.

92 slmag.net

There’s even 400 black clay rabbits handmade in Oaxaca installed in one of the bar’s walls. “Every time I look at it, I think about how it was made in Oaxaca and is now in Las Vegas,” Lopez says. “When someone makes something from hand, the energy travels through it. This adds a lot of spirit.”

Mama Rabbit carries the spirit from more than the 400 clay rabbits. There’s the spirit of Oaxaca, of a family tradition, of Lopez. There is intrigue for something greater than just another fancy cocktail at another fancy Vegas bar.

As the Oaxacan saying goes, Para todo mal, mezcal, y para todo bien, también. For everything bad, mezcal, and for everything good, as well.

Like the goddess Mayahuel, this Mama Rabbit is here to nourish us. sl parkmgm.mgmresorts.com

SOPHISTICATED SOCIETY October 4 5 11 11–12 12 12 19 19 27

ALS Association Food Is Art at Keep Memory Alive Event Center, webnv.alsa.org Life’s A Riot The Center’s Honorarium at Palms Casino Resort, thecenterlv.org Hoving Home 9th Annual Gala at JW Marriott, hovinghome.org Las Vegas Pride, Downtown Las Vegas, lasvegaspride.org The Magic of Discovery Gala at Discovery Children’s Museum, discoverykidslv.org The Neon Museum Boneyard Ball at Encore Las Vegas, neonmuseum.org Las Vegas Natural History Museum Dinosaur Ball at Red Rock Casino, lvnhm.org Foundation for an Independent Tomorrow Notte Di Carnevale Gala at Paris Las Vegas, lasvegasfit.org Concours d’Elegance on the Las Vegas Strip, lasvegasconcours.com

LOST VEGAS: TIM BURTON October 15, 2019 to February 15, 2020 at The Neon Museum For the first time in nearly a decade, Tim Burton will be staging an exhibition of fine art in the United States. The acclaimed artist, animator and film director will be transforming The Neon Museum’s already-distinctive campus with his own one-of-a-kind art, inspired by Las Vegas itself. This isn’t the first time Burton has taken inspiration from Las Vegas, as the city and its aesthetics played a major role in his love letter to B-sci-fi movies, Mars Attacks!.

The exhibition opens October 15, though museum members will be allowed to see it at the exclusive preview day, as well as special members-only viewing hours. The exhibit is twofold; the general admission ($30) hourlong experience in the boneyard, and the Tim Burton Brilliant experience (additional $24), a light show incorporating music and historical footage of the city. neonmuseum.org

November 14 23

Camelot at the Magical Forest at Opportunity Village, opportunityvillage.org 26th Annual Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation Profiles of Courage Gala at Bellagio Hotel, nvccf.org

slmag.net

93

Photography by Amit Dadlaney

LAS VEGAS GETS A LITTLE MORE SOPHISTICATED SL Mag Publisher Alison Victoria showed off the desert’s newest luxury lifestyle magazine, Sophisticated Living Las Vegas, at a preview party at Blue Heron’s luxury Southern Highlands community The Bluffs. Surrounded by beautiful decor from Naakiti Floral, guests enjoyed cocktails from Mezcal Veras, Effen Vodka and 7Five Brewing throughout the night, all served by Craft LV. They also snacked on bites from STK Las Vegas and an array of desserts from Carl’s Donuts, Sin City Cupcakes, 6 Sugar Factory American Brasserie and more. The evening included boutique activations from Stitched and Porsche, while DJ Stephi K kept the party riding high, welcoming Sophisticated Living to Las Vegas with style.

94 slmag.net

Photography by Amit Dadlaney

LAS VEGAS GETS A LITTLE MORE SOPHISTICATED

slmag.net

95

SOPHISTICATED WOMAN

By Melinda Sheckells / Portrait by Krystal Ramirez

Eileen Moore, regional president for Caesars Entertainment – Harrah’s Las Vegas, The LINQ Hotel + Experience, Flamingo Las Vegas and The Cromwell resorts leads by example.

Are you on any boards or working with any groups outside your company? Other projects in the works? Yes, I am on the corporate board of directors for Parlay Solutions, which is the premier group purchasing organization for North American gaming operators. I am also currently serving as a board trustee of the Nevada Ballet Theatre and on the dean’s advisory board at the top-ranked University of Nevada, Las Vegas, College of Hotel Administration. Additionally, I am a member of YPO [Young Presidents’ Organization], the premier leadership organization of chief executives around the world, and C200, a peer community of 200 successful female business leaders with the purpose of advancing women’s leadership in business.

What is your favorite quote or motto? People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.

What Las Vegas neighborhood or suburb do you live in? I love living in Henderson and most appreciate our peacefulness, beautiful parks, views and proximity to all the excitement and action that Las Vegas has to offer.

What sets your soul on fire? Getting to travel and explore the world with my fiancé Richard Johnson, who is also my best friend, truly sets my soul on fire.

When you look back on your career so far, what are the moments that you are most proud of? I am most proud of seeing the success of leaders, particularly diverse leaders, whom I have personally sponsored and mentored. I get great satisfaction from watching women advance after their participation in one of the 40 Lean In Circles I founded at Caesars Entertainment and in the gaming industry through Global Gaming Women. Opening more than $1 billion and counting in new hospitality assets on the Las Vegas Strip, in one of the world’s most visited tourist destinations, is pretty surreal too!

96 slmag.net

Who is your mentor or muse? These days, my 13-year-old son is reverse mentoring me all the time on technology, arts and all things cool.

Name your No. 1 life-changing, aha moment … My No. 1 lifechanging, aha moment was going to work as a little girl with my father, who was head of finance at The Drake hotel in Chicago, and him telling me that I could someday be the hotel general manager.

That idea planted a deep passion in me, and it has afforded me the most amazing career I could have ever imagined.

What is your biggest mistake or regret? My biggest regret is not working or studying overseas when I was younger.

What is your biggest challenge (professional or personal) that you work on every day? My biggest challenge is making a longdistance relationship and blended family work.

Give us one word that best describes how you live your life … passion.

Use three adjectives to describe the sophisticated woman you aim to be … powerful, inclusive and gracious. sl

Carbide and Carbon Building | 230 N. Michigan Avenue | Chicago, IL 60601 312-345-1000 | stjanehotel.com

why settle for ordinary when you can experience excellence eggersmann since 1908

eggersmann USA | 300 W Hubbard St, 4th Fl | Chicago, IL 60654 | 312.222.8700

eggersmannusa.com

n ew york | d ani a b ea c h | hou s ton | d al l a s | chic a go | los a nge les | pittsburgh | to ro nto | sand cit y | maui | lo s c abo s