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on the cover: STILL NIFTY AT FIFTY

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Still Nifty at Fifty Paradise Found Shell of a Week Boffo for Boca See Worthy Just Bead It Rabbit Hole Natural Selection Hey Now You’re An All Star Over The Moon at Under Canvas Night Moves Champagne Dreams See Bluff City Branching Out Take Care Sophisticated Weddings Ask the Experts

Al and Trish Thomas photographed by Charlie Mahanes at Sperry’s.

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PUBLISHER Dave Mahanes EDITOR - IN - CHIEF Melissa Mahanes

______________________________________________ Copy Editor Brit Hoyt CONTRIBUTORS Writers Lionel Haff Andre James Dave Mahanes Melissa Mahanes Bridget Williams Claire Williams Features Editor Carolyn Smith Bryant Travel Editors Christy Waller Shawn Haile Photographers Charlie Mahanes Melissa Mahanes We want you to be thrilled to receive your issues of Sophisticated Living Nashville— if we have your mailing address incorrect or wish not to receive the magazine, please email us at nashville@slmag.net.

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From the Publisher This morning’s 25-degree temperature makes me think of one of my favorite places, Chicago. I have a long history with The Windy City, starting when I moved there from Milwaukee when I was a year old. We lived on the North Shore in Lake Bluff, where I have my first memories. My earliest was a bee sting in the eye when I was two. I also clearly remember snow taller than me, learning to ice skate at the Lake Forest Winter Club, riding the fire engine in the Lake Bluff 4th of July Parade, and meeting Santa Claus for the first time at Marshall Fields on State Street in Chicago.

Fast forward 20+ years to my first job in banking at First Chicago in their New York office. First Chicago was a money center bank comparable to Chase, Citibank, Wells Fargo, etc., and has now, after several mergers, become J.P. Morgan Chase. As a baby banker, I spent September 1988 to February 1989 in Credit Training in Chicago. I had a corporate apartment in Streeterville on McClurg Court between Ohio and Ontario on a high floor facing Lake Michigan and Navy Pier, which was rather derelict at the time. I was three blocks from Magnificent Mile on Michigan Avenue, where I would catch the bus to work in the Loop. As someone who has lived in New York City, Chicago had everything New York had to offer but in a friendlier, more manageable environment. Like New York, Chicago has the finest dining, ethnic cultures, big-time sports teams, luxury shopping, music, art, and a rich history. It is also a beautiful urban environment. If I had to differentiate New York from Chicago, New York is a great International city, while Chicago is a great American city.

In the wintertime, the Windy City has one of the coldest winters I have ever experienced— colder than anywhere. I was amazed at the aweinspiring sight of Lake Michigan freezing over. Chicago has plenty of fine watering holes to supply antifreeze to weather the bitter cold. For me, these included the Golden Sardine Lounge, Billy Goat’s (the diner that inspired SNL’s “Cheeseburger, Cheeseburger, Pepsi, Pepsi” skit), and John Barleycorn’s, a British pub in Lincoln Park where my friends and I would play darts and drink Whitbread Ale. Let’s not forget El Jardin on Clark in Wrigleyville, which served Everclear margaritas.

I learned how to bowl in Chicago, though not very well. After my fellow trainees and I finished our group case studies after 10:00pm, we would walk up State Street to Marina City, with its futuristic cylindrical towers on the Chicago River that looked like something out of The Jetsons. In the basement of the towers is a twenty-four-lane bowling alley. The staff loved us because we would spend a lot of money and not cause any trouble, unlike some of the other patrons.

Two years later, in 1991, I did a rotation in First Chicago’s Investment Bank from March through September—a much warmer and better time to be in Chicago. I had a 900-square-foot one-bedroom apartment on the 29th floor on Carl Sandberg Terrace, a few blocks from the Rush and Division bar scene. The apartment had a balcony where I would barbecue on a small (and illegal) hibachi. I think I went to every worthwhile restaurant and nightclub with my newfound Capital Markets friends that summer. I fondly recall concerts in Grant Park and the Taste of Chicago food festival and remember hearing the din of noise from my balcony of Chicagoans celebrating the Bulls’ NCAA tournament win that year. Luckily, I had sublet my New York apartment, which helped pay for all the credit card bills I ran up while eating and drinking my way through the city. It was great to be 32 and alive that summer.

In 2016, my oldest son, Jack, matriculated to Columbia College to study music. Columbia College’s campus is urban in the South Loop of Chicago. Chicago has changed and grown much over the years since my two First Chicago stays there. In my earlier experience, the South Loop was not a place you would want to be. By 2016, it had become a gentrified, cool place to be. I used to pride myself on knowing how to get around in Chicago. Now, I struggled to figure out how to get from point A to point B. Navy Pier has been completely transformed into a gleaming tourist destination crowned by the 200-foot Centennial Wheel. Most of the restaurants I remember were gone (no more Pump Room!). In the four years that Jack was at Columbia, I had the opportunity to rediscover Chicago. We soon had our new favorite spots, including Burger Bar in the South Loop, Cai in Chinatown, Mario Batali’s Eataly, and my other son Charlie’s favorite, Siena Tavern, top chef contestant Fabio Viviani’s restaurant.

During Jack’s time there, we saw the reunion of Mott the Hoople at the Chicago Theatre, Black Sabbath at the Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre, Metallica at Soldier Field, and the Cubs at Wrigley Field. Since Jack graduated, I have sorely missed going regularly up to Chicago.

Chicago is just an hour and a half flight on Southwest from Nashville to Midway. From there, you can take the 25-minute ride on the CTA train to the Loop. It sure beats the 9-hour drive I made the first time we took Jack to school. I plan to revisit the City of Big Shoulders as soon as it gets warm. You should too.

Dave Mahanes, Publisher dave@slmag.net 12 slmag.net

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STILL NIFTY AT FIFTY

Dave chats with Al Thomas about Sperry’s 50-year milestone as a Belle Meade institution Interview by Dave Mahanes / Photos courtesy of Sperry’s, The Tennessean and Charlie Mahanes Dave Mahanes: Can you tell us about your favorite parts about the history and background of Sperry’s?

Al Thomas: Sperry’s was originally my mother’s garden store in the late ’50s and ’60s, The Garden Gate Garden Center, until it became The Brass Scales, a restaurant owned by my father and a couple of partners. As a child, I walked from Parmer School, just around the corner, to the garden store after school. My mother was a master gardener, and I remember the smells of the fertilizers and greenery. Those memories come back every time I walk into a garden store. When it was converted to The Brass Scales, my father chose a nautical theme after acquiring a large set of brass “balance beam” scales in Mobile, Alabama. He also discovered the ship hatches left over from WW2 merchant ships in Mobile and bought them to make the tables still in use today. I would walk over after school and watch a guy named Pete sandblast the grey paint off the hatch covers, fill the cracks and handles with rope, and pour

5-gallon buckets of resin over the tables. It was a tedious process, yet it produced what I now consider the most beautiful and heaviest tables on the planet.

The Brass Scales closed after a few years, and my father, Houston Thomas, and his brother, Dick Thomas, bought the assets off the courthouse steps and created Sperry’s. My grandfather owned the property, so the transition was easy. There was a huge lobster tank in the lobby, where there is now a buffet table with a bronze racing horse on top. At nine years old, I would come in for dinner with my parents, the server, David, would put a lobster bib around my neck and walk me out to the tank to pick out my very own lobster. They used an autoclave, commonly known for sterilizing medical equipment, as the steamer to cook the lobsters.

David would help me break into the lobster, which seemed bigger than life at my young age—the memory of eating that giant lobster drenched in drawn butter sticks with me to this day. slmag.net

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After a prosperous career of fishing out golf balls from the creek at Belle Meade Country Club and selling them back to the members, plus a short stint as a camp counselor at the age of 12, I asked my dad if I could work at Sperry’s when I turned 13. He said I was too young to work there, so I spent that summer working at three businesses down the street: Bay Seafood, where I headed shrimp and sold fresh fish over the counter; Varallos BBQ, where I cleaned out the brick BBQ pits regularly, and the Hot Stop Mini market where I restocked the beverage cooler. When I turned 14, my dad let me start working at Sperry’s. I cleaned the restaurant daily before opening and washed the leftover dishes from the night before. I eventually moved up to Dishwasher and then Busboy at age 16. About that time, we started holding Backgammon tournaments in the bar. I would come in for my evening shift as a busboy and ask manager David Hurst how many players we had that night. He would say, “Set it up as if we are full,” and I would move the tables around and add fold-out tables to accommodate the crowd. David would pull out his pencil from behind his ear and write down the 40-50 players’ names in prearranged brackets by memory. Backgammon nights were always lively nights and proved to be very popular.

Family nights at Sperry’s have always been very special. The memories over the years are exceptional, and being able to go to Sperry’s during my younger years, and later as the owner, with family and friends to celebrate special occasions has always 16 slmag.net

stood out at the top. The restaurant is warm, comfortable, and friendly to everyone celebrating special occasions. Sperry’s started taking photos of celebrating guests and presenting them in a special sleeve many years ago. Like many of our regular guests, I have a collection of those photos to reflect on and reminisce.

Sperry’s popularity after 50 years of operation is a testament to that warmth and hospitality. Our guests return year after year to celebrate special occasions and create new memories. There is nothing more special than that!!!

DM: What sets Sperry’s apart from other fine dining establishments in the area?

AT: Sperry’s is one of the most uniquely decorated restaurants in Middle Tennessee. The old English Steakhouse atmosphere, with the stone fireplaces and one-of-a-kind salad bar, set Sperry’s apart from the competition. The ship hatch-cover tables, unique decorations, and the original stained glass add to the ambiance. I grew up in an old English Tudor home just down the street and always felt that my father created the English theme from that house, but later in life, I discovered that he copied the look of the Jolly Ox, aka Steak-n-Ale in Green Hills. That timeless look transcends the modern upgrades in the current restaurant scene.

All that, combined with our simple yet quality-driven menu that has stood the test of time, make Sperry’s a consistent favorite.

Dick Thomas, Houston Thomas

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DM: Share with us about your signature dishes and customer favorites.

AT: Dad introduced the 6oz Bacon-wrapped Filet many years ago to create a portion size that was comfortable to eat. After visiting a restaurant in Chicago that topped their Filet with Blue Cheese, he decided to stuff the blue cheese into the Filet using the very best blue cheese available. That quickly became the number one selling item on the menu. After my wife, Trish, and I bought Sperry’s in 2000, Prince William and his entourage came in for dinner, and the Prince ordered the Blue Cheese-Stuffed Filet. We promptly renamed it the Prince William Blue Cheese-Stuffed Filet, which has been the number one item on the menu since then. Beyond that, Sperry’s original Salad Bar is as signature as it gets. Some say we had the first salad bar in Nashville, and I am inclined to agree. Nothing is more special than a trip to the Salad Bar to create your favorite salad while checking out the crowd. I have my own personal salad that I prepare every time I visit, and so does everyone else. You can’t beat it!

and center. My father, when he had cancer and had let some things slip; I quickly dug in to put the place back together the way it was supposed to be. Our guests, like me, do not like change and appreciate my work. Once it was tuned back up, we made minor changes to some lighting, adopted a new logo, and concentrated on upgrading food and service as needed. Using the knowledge I gained from my years at the former Houston’s Restaurant and L&N Seafood Grill, we set quality standards to guarantee a topnotch experience. After opening the Sperry’s in Cool Springs and multiple Sam’s Sports Grills, we brought Bob Tappan on board as Director of Operations. He has a very strong culinary background, developed the Bricktop’s concept, and has been with Houston’s for many years. He and I see food quality and consistency on the same level, and Bob helped us make some needed menu upgrades, including the best Crab Cakes on the planet. Bob sealed the deal regarding quality and consistency at Sperry’s (and Sam’s), and increasing sales soon told the story of his success.

DM: What do you enjoy most about leading the Sperry’s team?

AT: Many long-term employees, including Jeff, Scott, and Connie, have been with us since I bought Sperry’s in 2000. They are the DNA of Sperry’s and hold the team together. We are very lucky to have a mature and professional staff that keeps Sperry’s consistently top-notch when it comes to food quality and service. Our guests recognize and appreciate the atmosphere, which is always warm and friendly.

DM: What is Sperry’s Mercantile all about?

AT: The 2010 flood washed away the drapery shop behind Porter Paints and left us with an empty building. I always felt that a small butcher and gourmet shop would work in that location; however, it sat empty for several years before the dream was realized. My good friend Joe Gallivan spurred the concept when he called and asked the question, “Where are we going to get good steaks now that Harris Teeter is closed”? That was all it took, and we quickly moved to convert the 500-square-foot building into The Sperry’s Mercantile. It was an instant success. However, it was when we hired chef and meat cutter Drew that things really took off. Oddly enough, Covid helped spur our growth there as well.

While customers steered clear from the big stores, they lined up all the way out to Harding Road to get in and buy fresh meats and seafood along with my sister Anne Clayton’s prepared foods. The mercantile differs from standard butcher shops in that everything is cut and portioned for sale at Sperry’s, so the prices for almost everything are by the piece instead of per pound. My goal was to

DM: Al, you know I’ve been coming to Sperry’s since it opened when I was a teenager. Very little has changed over time. Why is that, and if anything has changed, what is it?

AT: When I bought Sperry’s in 2000, there were many false rumors that Sperry’s would change. Some even said I would take the Salad Bar away. Nothing could be further from the truth. At that time, I had been dining at Sperry’s (and the former Brass Scales) for 30 years. Consistency has always been my goal in life when it comes to the restaurant business, and Sperry’s was front 18 slmag.net

sell what we serve at Sperry’s so our guests could take it home and prepare it themselves. That includes our famous Sperry’s dressings, the Sperry’s Steak Seasoning, best-selling twice-baked potatoes, peppermint ice cream with chocolate sauce, and so on. Pretty much everything you can get on the Sperry’s menu is available to take home. The concept has worked extremely well.

Additionally, we are remodeling the Shoney’s Building in Bellevue, where we will open a second Sperry’s Mercantile plus a new concept called Café Sperry’s, which will have Bellevue’s first drive-thru coffee shop. In addition to those two operations, we are launching Sperrysmeats.com, our e-commerce business that will ship Sperry’s quality meats and seafood, plus our unique gourmet lines nationwide.

DM: Tell us about your family and how you met your wife, Trish.

AT: We met while we were attending UT Knoxville. I was the head waiter at Cajun’s Wharf, and she was a hostess. The restaurant management arranged a snow ski outing for the staff. I saw a girl crash on one of the slopes in front of me, so I quickly crashed next to her to offer help. Her name was Trish, and I invited her to the lodge for hot chocolate. The rest is history. I had to drop out of college because I was so busy managing a staff of about 60 servers during the 1982 World’s Fair, so Trish graduated two years before me. Before graduating with a degree in Special Education, she asked me what I was going to do about finishing school. It didn’t take long to decide on Hotel Restaurant Management as my ultimate degree. Unfortunately, “undeclared” doesn’t qualify as an actual degree. I transferred to Denver University to major in Hospitality Management, and Trish moved back to Columbia, TN, to start her teaching career. After about a year apart, we decided to get married and start a family. She moved to Denver while I finished school. After graduating, I was hired by Houston’s in Metairie, Louisiana, and we moved there. We moved 17 times in our first ten years of marriage!

Our first child, Mary Allison, was born in Atlanta, and our second child, Cate, was born in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, seven years later.

All the moves were tough on the family and especially on Trish while

she worked hard to continue her teaching career, although I will say it is very easy to get a job when you are Special Ed. After many more moves, we ended up back in Nashville when I bought Sperry’s.

DM: What do you like to do in your spare time?

AT: My wife is a horse person, along with my youngest daughter, Cate. I am a boat person along with Mary Allison, who holds a 100-ton captain’s license. We have a place at Center Hill Lake and a place near Orange Beach. Trish and I enjoy boating and fishing together when she’s not doing horsey stuff. Trish is quite the angler, and her most recent catch was a 313-pound Blue Marlin in a ladies’ tournament out of Orange Beach Marina.

When we are not fishing in the Gulf, we fish for trout on the Caney Fork River or in Montana. She outfishes me every time.

There is something about women having more patience than men. The bottom line is that after all the moves and hardships associated with the hospitality industry, I promised Trish that she would never be what I call a “sports widow.” That means my favorite pastime is spending time with my best friend, Trish, and most importantly, I am the luckiest guy in the universe because she likes to fish!!!

DM: What is your personal motto?

AT: My soon-to-be-famous quote is, “If you cut me, I bleed au jus!”. I have been in this business fully dedicated, as in it never was a “dress rehearsal,” for coming up on 50 years.

DM: Thank you, Al, for being at the helm of such a Nashville institution. It’s been a pleasure to hear about Sperry’s story. sl Sperry’s Belle Meade / 5109 Harding Pike, Nashville, TN 37205 / (615) 353-0809 / sperrys.com Monday-Saturday 4:00pm-10:00pm, Sunday 4:00pm-9:00pm Sperry’s Mercantile / 5109 Harding Pike, Nashville, TN 37205 / (615) 353-0809 / sperrys.com Monday-Saturday 4:00pm-10:00pm, Sunday 4:00pm-9:00pm Sperry’s Cool Springs / 650 Frazier Drive, Franklin, TN 37067 / (615) 778-9950 / sperrys.com Monday-Thursday 11:00am-3:00pm, 5:00pm-10:00pm, Friday-Saturday 11:00am-3:00pm, 5:00pm-11:00pm, Sunday 5:00pm-9:00pm

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Houston and Sue Thomas

Sue and Houston Thomas

Trish and Al Thomas

Dick and Judy Thomas and Sue and Houston Thomas photographed at Sperry’s December 5, 1988 as seen in The Tennessean

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PARADISE FOUND The islands of the 50th State offer sun and fun

Written by Christy Waller and Shawn Haile Photos Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton, Maui, Kapalua, Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection, and Four Seasons Maui (Christian Horan and Rich Stapleton) Nestled on the western coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, the picturesque region of Kona is a true gem of the Pacific. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and diverse outdoor activities, Kona attracts travelers worldwide seeking an unforgettable Hawaiian experience.

Kona is situated on the leeward side of the Big Island of Hawaii, renowned for its stunning sunsets and warm, dry climate.

The region stretches along approximately 60 miles of coastline, encompassing a variety of scenic spots and historical landmarks.

The name “Kona” means “lee” or “dry side” in Hawaiian, aptly reflecting the weather pattern on this side of the island, which experiences minimal rainfall compared to the windward regions.

Kona boasts an array of natural wonders that will leave visitors in awe. The region is blessed with majestic volcanoes, most notably Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea, the latter of which stands as the tallest mountain on Earth when measured from its base beneath the ocean. The volcanic landscape has sculpted various captivating formations, such as lava tubes, lava fields, and volcanic craters, providing a fascinating insight into the forces that shaped the island’s geography. One of the most iconic and breathtaking sights in Kona is Kealakekua Bay.

For adventure seekers, Kona offers a paradise of outdoor activities. Surfers flock to the region for its renowned breaks, while paddleboarders explore the calm waters along the shoreline. The vast Pacific Ocean surrounding Kona is a playground for water enthusiasts, offering opportunities for snorkeling, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, and swimming with manta rays—an unforgettable nocturnal adventure.

Imagine waking up to the soothing sound of the waves crashing on the rugged coastline of Hawaii’s Big Island. As you open your eyes, you’re greeted with breathtaking views of the azure Pacific Ocean, framed by lush greenery and swaying palm trees. This is the magic of Auberge Mauna Lani, a luxury resort that captures the essence of Hawaii’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Mauna Lani is nestled on the west coast of Hawaii’s Big Island, known as the Kona Coast. The resort sits on a stunning stretch of oceanfront, perfectly blending into the landscape, providing a sense of tranquility and connection to nature. The Kona region is celebrated for its remarkable sunsets, incredible snorkeling spots, and proximity to various historical and cultural landmarks. slmag.net

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Mauna Lani

The architecture and design of Mauna Lani are a testament to modern elegance infused with Hawaiian elements. The resort seamlessly merges traditional island aesthetics with contemporary amenities, creating a luxurious and comfortable retreat for its guests.

With open-air spaces and floor-to-ceiling windows, you can immerse yourself in the panoramic beauty of the Pacific and the lush tropical surroundings from every corner of the resort.

The accommodations at Mauna Lani redefine luxury living. The resort offers a diverse range of stylish guest rooms and suites, each meticulously designed with high-quality materials and Hawaiianinspired decor. From spacious ocean-view rooms to private bungalows with direct access to the beach, every stay promises an unforgettable experience.

Mauna Lani takes pride in its culinary offerings, presenting a fusion of flavors that showcase the island’s rich gastronomic heritage.

Guests can indulge in a delightful variety of fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and locally sourced ingredients. The resort boasts several dining options, from casual beachside cafes to upscale restaurants helmed by renowned chefs, ensuring that every palate is satisfied.

For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, Mauna Lani provides a range of wellness experiences. The resort’s spa is a haven of serenity, offering traditional Hawaiian treatments and modern therapies to soothe the mind, body, and soul. Yoga classes and meditation sessions in open-air spaces allow guests to connect with nature while finding inner peace.

Mauna Lani is more than just a luxury resort; it’s a paradise rediscovered. With its mesmerizing location, modern elegance, and commitment to preserving Hawaiian culture and nature, the resort 24 slmag.net

offers an unparalleled experience for travelers seeking a harmonious blend of luxury and authenticity. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, Mauna Lani beckons you to indulge in the enchanting haven of Hawaii’s Big Island.

Situated in the Pacific Ocean, Maui is the second-largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago and is known for its breathtaking beauty, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. This tropical gem is a haven for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those looking to unwind in unparalleled tranquility. Maui’s geographic diversity is one of its most striking features. The island is divided into several regions, each offering a distinct landscape and character.

The eastern side of Maui is adorned with lush rainforests, plunging waterfalls, and the famous Road to Hana, a winding road that leads to one of the most scenic drives on Earth. Visitors can immerse themselves in the island’s wild beauty, exploring hidden pools, bamboo forests, and untouched beaches.

In stark contrast, the western side of Maui boasts arid plains and the stunning Haleakalā National Park, home to the dormant Haleakalā Volcano. Watching the sunrise from the summit of Haleakalā is an ethereal experience that leaves an indelible impression on all who witness it. As the first rays of the sun pierce through the clouds, the landscape transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors, creating an otherworldly spectacle.

Maui’s coastline is filled with some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, drawing visitors seeking sun, surf, and sand. Kaanapali Beach, situated on the western coast, is particularly famous for its golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant beachfront atmosphere.

It’s a popular spot for snorkeling, parasailing, and catamaran cruises.

Mauna Lani

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Four Seasons Maui

For a more secluded beach experience, travelers can head to Makena Beach (often called “Big Beach”) on the southern side of Maui. Surrounded by lava rocks and backed by dunes, this pristine stretch of sand provides a serene escape from the crowds.

One of Maui’s most popular outdoor adventures is the previously mentioned Road to Hana. The 64-mile-long journey takes travelers through lush rainforests, past cascading waterfalls, and around hairpin turns with breathtaking coastline views.

Visitors can stop at various roadside stands to sample fresh fruits, coconut candy, and other local treats.

For those seeking a unique adrenaline rush, zip-lining above the treetops or taking a helicopter tour over Maui’s diverse landscapes provide awe-inspiring perspectives of the island’s natural wonders.

The Four Seasons Maui Wailea enjoys an enviable location on the southwest coast of Maui, boasting stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and its neighboring islands. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens and swaying palm trees, the resort exudes a sense of exclusivity and serenity that immediately transports guests to a world of relaxation and escape. The resort offers a wide range of luxurious accommodations, each designed to cater to the diverse preferences of its discerning guests. From elegant guest rooms 26 slmag.net

and suites to lavish private villas with panoramic ocean views, every space is meticulously decorated and equipped with modern amenities that ensure maximum comfort and indulgence.

Culinary enthusiasts will be delighted by the array of dining options at Four Seasons Maui. The resort is home to a selection of award-winning restaurants that serve delectable cuisine from around the world. Whether it’s the authentic Italian flavors at Ferraro’s Bar e Ristorante, the exquisite seafood offerings at Spago by Wolfgang Puck, or the contemporary Hawaiian dishes at DUO Steak and Seafood, each restaurant promises an unforgettable culinary journey.

For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, the Four Seasons Maui offers an extensive spa and wellness program. The Spa at Four Seasons Maui offers a range of luxurious treatments inspired by ancient Hawaiian traditions, utilizing natural and organic products to create a truly immersive experience. Guests can also indulge in yoga classes, fitness facilities, and personalized wellness programs to promote holistic well-being during their stay.

Beyond the comforts of the resort, Four Seasons Maui presents many activities and adventures to explore the island’s beauty. From snorkeling in crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life to embarking on exhilarating helicopter tours to

Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua

witness the dramatic landscapes of Maui from above, there’s an activity to suit every interest and age.

The resort is an excellent choice for families seeking a memorable vacation together. The Keiki (Children’s) Club offers a host of supervised activities, allowing parents to enjoy much-needed relaxation while knowing their children are in safe hands. The whole family can partake in educational excursions, cultural experiences, and water sports, making for an unforgettable bonding experience.

Finally, fans of the popular series The White Lotus may notice several key landmarks and indicators on the property, as Season One was filmed at this iconic resort.

This world-renowned resort offers an unparalleled experience for travelers seeking an exquisite Hawaiian escape. From its stunning surroundings to its impeccable service, The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua is a true paradise for discerning travelers. Located on the pristine shores of Kapalua Bay, The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua boasts a prime location on the island of Maui, one of Hawaii’s most sought-after destinations. The resort’s 54 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds merge seamlessly with the stunning natural beauty of the island, showcasing the magnificent contrast of the azure Pacific Ocean and the lush greenery of the surrounding forests and mountains.

The resort offers a variety of luxurious accommodations to suit every guest’s preference. From elegantly appointed guest rooms to lavish suites with sweeping ocean views, each space exudes comfort and sophistication. All rooms feature contemporary Hawaiian-inspired décor, plush furnishings, and modern amenities, ensuring a restful and indulgent stay.

The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua presents an exceptional culinary journey that caters to all tastes and preferences. The resort’s dining options include a collection of exquisite restaurants that celebrate the finest ingredients from both land and sea. Guests can indulge in delectable dishes at the renowned Banyan Tree, which offers Pacific Rim-inspired cuisine in an intimate and romantic setting. For those seeking a more casual dining experience, the Beach House restaurant provides a beachfront location and delicious Hawaiian-inspired fare.

The resort offers a range of activities for guests of all ages and interests. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at the world-class Plantation Course, which has hosted prestigious PGA tournaments, providing an unforgettable golfing experience with breathtaking views. For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, The RitzCarlton Spa offers a range of traditional Hawaiian therapies and wellness treatments amidst a tranquil tropical setting. sl slmag.net

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19-25 FEB 2024

HILTON HEAD ISLAND SEAFOOD FESTIVAL At the Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival, we have crafted an exhilarating culinary adventure committed to preserving our distinct, South-inspired culture. With world-renowned chefs crafting delectable seafood specialties, oyster roasts for sustainable consumption, wine tastings and expert mixologists – there’s something unique for everyone to enjoy!

Discover an unforgettable memory that delivers exceptional culinary delights and leisurely activities all on one gorgeous southern island. H I L T O N H E A D S E A F O O D F E S T I V A L . C O M

SHELL OF A WEEK

The Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival is a feast for all the senses Written by Melissa Mahanes /Photos courtesy of Hilton Head Island Visitor’s Bureau The Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival is not your average foodie gathering. It is a week-long extravaganza celebrating the island’s rich history and vibrant culture. South Carolina in February boasts comfortable maximum daily temperatures of 60 to 67 degrees, meaning plenty of days outdoors beachcombing, checking out local nature preserves, and hiking in this ideal weather.

The Seafood Festival has an action-packed schedule with multiple dining experiences, from Chef-led demonstrations to tastings. The week culminates with a Seafood and Champagne Sunday Brunch on the final day. During the week, highlights are Alexander’s Homegrown Supper, featuring chefs Jon Buck and Charles Pejeau, alongside the esteemed Elyse Winery by Josh Peeples. This extraordinary evening will transport you to the heart of Hilton Head Island and the Lowcountry, where the talented chefs share their personal memories and culinary traditions. Indulge in a five-course feast showcasing the finest in locally sourced seafood, farm-fresh produce, and delightful Southern-inspired cuisine. Each course will be complemented by

exceptional wines carefully selected from Elyse Winery, adding an exquisite touch to this extraordinary culinary journey. Take advantage of this one-of-a-kind gathering of culinary brilliance!

Wednesday’s agenda includes a captivating pop-up dinner that celebrates the vibrant heritage of New Mexican culture, presented course by course. Chef Fernando Olea is the esteemed James Beard Award Winning Southwest’s Best Chef of 2022. For one night only, Chef Fernando Olea will team up with Chef Tim Nelson of Holy Tequila. With a splendid fusion of indigenous ingredients from Old Mexico and flavors from around the world, Chef Olea creates a symphony of sophisticated tastes. Their collaboration extends to the shores of Hilton Head Island, where the renowned Chef Tim Nelson’s expertise blends New American flavors with the authentic essence of Mexican cuisine. These two star chefs will combine their talents to present a four-course extravaganza. Each delectable dish will be expertly paired with exceptional cocktails featuring the festival’s official tequila from Herradura. Olé to mole! slmag.net

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The Zero Forks Given and Pig Pickin’ and Oyster Roast events include all food and drinks and benefit the David M. Carmines Memorial Fund, supporting local charities in the community. Nearly two million dollars have been contributed to the community since its inception in the early 2000s. By joining in the fun, you’re treating yourself to an unforgettable experience and giving back.

What sets this festival apart is its inclusivity. While most food and wine events are limited to adults, the Saturday Seafood Festival is a family-friendly affair. Enjoy live music, witness thrilling chef cooking competitions, and let the little ones embark on a thrilling adventure of shark teeth hunting. It will be a day filled with wonder for everyone.

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As for accommodations, you have two fantastic options. The Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort, the official host hotel, offers everything you need just a stone’s throw away from the event.

Alternatively, immerse yourself entirely by staying at Palmetto Dunes Resort for the whole week. Pair it with golfing and biking; you’ve got the perfect recipe for a memorable getaway.

Mark your calendars and journey to The Hilton Head Seafood Festival from February 19-25, 2024. Hilton Head Island is waiting to welcome you with open arms. Dare to experience something truly extraordinary. We promise you will find it shrimply irresistible. sl HiltonHeadSeafoodFestival.com

Enjoy Winter at Your European Café

Café Intermezzo

205 Demonbreun at Second Avenue . Nashville cafeintermezzo.com

3 locations in Atlanta since 1979

Committed to Doing First-Class Business in a First-Class Way Morgan Stanley Private Wealth Management was created specifically to help our most affluent clients address the complex, multigenerational challenges of managing significant wealth.

Deeply committed to meeting the needs of exceptional individuals, families and foundations, we work with our clients to help enhance their lifestyles, create enduring legacies, and capitalize on the opportunities generated by a constantly changing world.

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3102 West End Avenue, Suite 200 Nashville, TN 37203 615-269-2441 raj.patnaik@morganstanleypwm.com advisor.morganstanley.com/the-patnaik-group

Morgan Stanley and its Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals should seek advice based on their particular circumstances from an independent tax advisor. © 2023 Morgan Stanley Private Wealth Management, a division of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. PWM001 CRC 6053374 10/23

Yacht Club exterior

BOFFO FOR BOCA

Reinvigorated under the ownership of Michael Dell's MSD Partners, The Boca Raton, an iconic South Florida resort, delivers panache without pretense.

Written by Bridget Williams / Photos courtesy of The Boca Raton

The contributions of architect Addison Mizner and business tycoon Henry Flagler to elevating Palm Beach County's prominence as a long-time playground for the rich and famous cannot be understated. The latter's landmarks include The Breakers Palm Beach, which well-heeled travelers of the late 1800s accessed via his expanded railroad system. Mizner literally followed Flagler's tracks to leave an indelible mark courtesy of his Spanish and Mediterranean Revival style buildings, whose architectural ambiance is now regarded as a quintessential South Florida architectural hallmark.

Arriving in Palm Beach with sewing machine heir Paris Singer during the winter of 1918 gave Mizner, a self-taught architect, instant entrée into the upper echelons of society. By all accounts, his charisma quickly garnered attention, but it was the architect's unique perspective and exacting execution— extending to workshops he

established to turn out tiles, wrought iron fixtures, cast-stone trim and columns, and furniture to his specifications—that kept clients calling.

Among Mizner's dossier of "Mizner Mediterranean Revival" buildings are more than 50 mansions, the Everglades Club and nearby Via Mizner on Worth Avenue in Palm Beach, and the RitzCarlton Cloister Inn, part of a sprawling development spearheaded by his Mizner Development Corporation in Boca Raton, which in the early 1920s was just a small farming community. The 100room Cloister Inn, which opened to great fanfare in 1926, went on to become the Waldorf Astoria-run Boca Raton Resort & Club and most recently reemerged under Michael Dell's MSD Partners' ownership and a $200M facelift as simply The Boca Raton. Following my recent visit, I can only surmise that Mizner would be tickled as pink as the pastry case in Maison Rose, a sweets shop in the historic Cloister Lobby with the renovation of the resort and private club. slmag.net

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Lazy river at the Harborside Pool Club

A sprawling property encompassing five lodging options, The Cloister remains the heart of the property. It is the embarkation point for guests staying here and at the Bungalows, the Tower, the Beach Club, and the Yacht Club, an adults-only luxury mid-rise where I was lucky to lodge for a few days.

It's nearly impossible to pass through The Cloister without stopping at least once to marvel at the architecture, the ornateness of which is even more pronounced against a blue-chip collection of contemporary art from the likes of Alex Katz, KAWS, and Fernando Botero placed in partnership with Palm Beach's Sponder Gallery. Moving past Sadelle's (an outpost of the beloved SoHo institution often credited with the best bagel in the Big Apple) and the soaring-ceilinged and strikingly stunning Palm Court lounge, a corridor lined with art that's heavy on photography 34 slmag.net

and nostalgia, including a diamond-dusted portrait of Jackie O

by Russell Young, leads to the private Yacht Club entrance, only accessible to registered guests.

After being greeted in the living-room-like lobby, guests are escorted to their suites, all of which face the Intracoastal. The terraces in each suite provide a bird's eye view of Lake Boca Raton and the Atlantic Ocean beyond. The Yacht Club's sleek interior design—bleached oak floors and a blue and white color scheme— aptly calls to mind the superyachts moored just outside the lobby.

Guests of the Yacht Club are privy to scores of exclusive amenities, including butler service, full access to the lush private pool and wellness facilities of the Forbes Five-Star Spa Palmera, and the ability to take the house car, an Aston Martin DBX707 (the world's most powerful luxury SUV) out for a spin.

Palm Court

The Flamingo Grill, a Major Food Group restaurant.

The adult’s pool at the Harborside Pool Club

The Ritual Bath at Spa Palmera

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Spa Palmera Great Room

Palm Court

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The pool at Spa Palmera is open to guests of the Yacht Club to use for the duration of their stay.

Yacht Club guests have privileges at two exclusive food and beverage outlets: Flybridge and an alfresco Champagne Terrace featuring premium bubbly from French Champagne house Moët & Chandon, including Ice Impérial, the first and only champagne designed to be enjoyed over ice. Located on the top floor of the Yacht Club, Flybridge is an intimate fine dining concept serving breakfast and Executive Chef Peter Annewanter's beautifully plated and exquisitely orchestrated three- and five-course tasting menus at dinner, including a vegetarian option tempting enough for a carnivore like me to try.

Outside the Yacht Club's rarified air, you'll find a plethora of amenities scattered throughout the resort's 300+ acres. In total, there are 15 restaurants and lounges. Take advantage of a sunset cocktail on the smartly outfitted terrace of The Flamingo Grill, overlooking the 18-hole par-71 golf course. A Major Food Group restaurant, there's a touch of South Florida's mid-century golden age in the interior design and snappy attire of the service captains at this classic American steakhouse.

Harbor House, which leans heavily on seafood and supersized salads, is adjacent to the sprawling Harborside Pool Club, which encompasses a 450-foot lazy river, waterslides, a surfing simulator, an adult-only pool, and luxury cabanas. Leave room

for their Tackle Box sundae, where giant scoops of ice cream are delivered alongside a retrofitted tackle box full of toppings.

The whimsical wallpaper and light fixtures at the Monkey Bar are an homage to Johnnie Brown, Mizner's pet spider monkey, who ran for mayor of Palm Beach and was buried in Via Mizner after he died in 1927. You can spy a larger-than-life statue of the duo atop a clock tower in downtown Boca Raton.

The 50,000-square-foot Spa Palmera is a visually stunning palace of pampering open to Yacht Club guests during operating hours, with no appointment. Inspired by Spain's Alhambra Palace, the ritual experiences offered in the opulent Moroccan baths are a must-do, either on their own or in conjunction with indulgent face and body treatments that use products from Natura Bisse and Biologique Recherche, among others. Those wanting a little pumping up in addition to pampering can avail themselves of a superbly equipped fitness facility with a slate of daily complimentary classes, a Racquet Club with 16 tennis courts and six pickleball courts, and seven swimming pools.

From formal to frivolous, all types of monkeying around are possible at this comprehensive resort, which meant I could follow up an afternoon of zipping down the waterslides with dressing up for a refined five-course dinner at Fybridge. Mizner would approve. sl slmag.net

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SEE WORTHY Bentley creates a bespoke interior for Contest Yachts’ new 67CS sailing cruiser.

Written by Andre James / Images courtesy of Contest Yachts

A Bentley design team specializing in crafting interiors for the Continental GT and Bentayga received a unique opportunity to create a bespoke interior for a 20-meter Contest 67CS yacht following the private client’s visit to Bentley’s Crewe Factory. “We are delighted to be working with Bentley Motors, adding the option of fully matched Bentley auto and yacht interiors to our portfolio,” said Contest CEO Arjen Conjuin.

The team at Bentley worked closely with the Contest Yacht design team, Wetzels Brown Partners, to create the unique interior, which they described as “an exciting challenge that pushed the create boundaries of its craftspeople.” The team harnessed prototyping methods, including 3D printing, to enable the feasibility of individual components with a full mock-up of some items, including the sofa, produced before fitting out to ensure their exacting standards were satisfied. Bentley’s instantly recognizable diamond quilted hides were book38 slmag.net

matched throughout the vessel’s interiors, with details such as the tissue holder and drink coasters created from scratch to the customer’s preference. Hand cross-stitching, employed by Bentley craftspeople to produce the steering wheel, was adopted and adapted throughout this project for new applications.

The project also provided a platform to showcase pieces from the Bentley Home furnishings line, including the Malvern Chair. A bar and vanity unit are among the one-off case goods.

The Contest Yacht’s Captain’s chair and ‘Egg’ tables were given a bespoke touch by Bentley, along with the sofa, which was handbuilt at Bentley’s engineering facility.

“Yacht interiors, like that of a car, must be exact with precision details,” said Dr. Matthias Rabe, Member of the Board for Engineering at Bentley Motors. “The finished article is a testament to the incredible talent and skill of our craftsmen and women who rose to the challenge and pushed the boundaries of what is possible.” sl

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JUST BEAD IT Compiled by Bridget Williams

This page, clockwise from top left: Assael Sciacca coral multi strand earrings ($4,800). Available through Diamond Cellar in Columbus and Nashville and assael.com. EF Collection emerald bead & bezel diamond necklace ($925, efcollection.com). Established Jewelry Cowboy necklace ($2,550; establishedjewelry.com). Marco Bicego Paradise gemstone & pearl earrings ($1,340). Available through Diamond Cellar in Columbus & Nashville, Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, Davis Jewelers in Louisville, and marcobicego.com. Essentially color South Sea pearl & diamond necklace from Picchiotti. Available through Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis, Elleard Heffern Fine Jewellers in St. Louis and picchiotti.it. Elhanati men’s Isha jade bracelet ($2,416; elhanati.com). Jenna Blake pink and white Heishi bead necklace ($4,800; jennablake.com). Opposite page, clockwise from top left: Guita M opal bead necklace with porcelain pendant ($3,200; guitam-jewelry.com). Ray Griffiths Sonoran turquoise necklace ($5,445; raygriffiths.com). The Last Swan necklace by Sanjay Kasliwal ($80,000; sanjaykasliwal.com). Nikos Koulis Lingerie collection brooch (nikoskoulis.com).

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A bird’s eye view of the Rabbit Hole distillery with downtown Louisville in the background.

RABBIT HOLE Through the Looking Glass Written by Claire Williams / Photos courtesy of Rabbit Hole Bourbon, at its base, is a story of creativity and innovation. Traveling monks who immigrated to Ireland and Scotland used fermented grain mash and cereals to make aqua vitae (early concoctions of whiskey, which in Latin means "water of life") due to the absence of vineyards and grapes. European settlers who traveled to North America used distillation techniques to create new whiskey styles with local grain mash and corn. Even during prohibition, medicinal whiskey could be prescribed by a doctor for pick up at a local pharmacy, enabling distilleries to skirt strict prohibition laws. In the centuries succeeding those early renditions of whiskey and bourbon, some argued that America's native spirit had lost some of that original imagination and ingenuity.

Kaveh Zamanian was among those who believed the whiskey category had "fallen asleep." Two decades ago, when Zamanian met his wife Heather, a Louisville native, he said he had the chance to fall in love twice: with Heather and with whiskey. Launching Rabbit Hole in 2012 represents Zamanian’s love letter to the latter.

Working in bars in his 20s, Zamanian pined for a career in the spirits industry, and opening Rabbit Hole was the realization of a deferred dream that simmered on the back burner as he pursued another path as a successful clinical psychologist and psychoanalyst.

Zamanian remarked that once he caught the "bourbon bug," he envisioned what the spirit could be, saying it’s "51% corn and 49% possibilities." While he always envisioned Rabbit Hole as the next great United States whisky brand, even today, Zamanian has

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"pinch me" moments when he reflects on how what he thought would end up as a small craft distillery has become an international phenomenon. “It’s not a cliché for me to say that I go down ‘rabbit holes’ to challenge what bourbon is and what it can be,” he says when discussing one of his most personal projects, the limitedrelease Founder’s Collection.

Rabbit Hole focuses on capturing new emerging whiskey consumers, essentially the antithesis of the stereotypical Mad Menesque tippler or those who only see whiskey as suited for cocktails. As such, Zamanian knows that learning from both sides of the bottle is crucial. He believes it's the industry's job to educate consumers while listening to their needs and wants. Teaching moments frequently occur at their distillery, where they conduct tastings of whiskey flights that may encompass expressions aged in cognac barrels to double chocolate bourbon, creating a natural learning flow on both sides.

Occasionally, distillery visitors "test" new expressions, with their feedback contributing to the finished product.

Zamanian says, "Shoot me if I only have one idea," explaining his belief that it's his job to inspire his team to think like chefs as much as distillers while tasting and testing ingredients to see how they can keep pushing the boundaries of bourbon and whiskey. He wants Rabbit Hole to be an innovative hub for American whisky and a leader in the whisky renaissance. At the same time, Rabbit Hole pays homage to those creators and innovators who pioneered American whiskey while constantly evolving and creating new styles. '

Kaveh with Raceking, part of the Founder’s Collection. The bourbon is crafted with a oneof-a-kind mash bill featuring chocolate-malted wheat and chocolate-malted barley, and aged in new American Oak barrels.

Kaveh Zamanian with Boxergrail Cask Strength, part of the Founder’s Collection.

Kaveh Zamanian with Amburana, part of the Founder’s Collection. It’s a blend of 12 year old Kentucky Straight Bourbon aged in Brazilian oak barrels to impart more exotic notes.

Kaveh Zamanian with Mizunara, part of the Founder’s Collection. The aged whiskey is finished in Japanese Mizunara Oak.

Kaveh Zamanian with Nevallier, part of the Founder’s Collection.

15-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon is finished for one year in new French Oak barrels made by Tonnellerie Leroi, one of France’s most renown cooperages.

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Cavehill, one of Rabbit Hole's original bourbons and the recipient of multiple prestigious accolades, is named to honor generations of Louisville distillers and those daring enough to experiment and take risks to forge the path for modern whiskey.

Before Zamanian was wooed by whisky, he loved the earthiness and smoke of a single malt scotch; those same flavors echo in his Cavehill Bourbon. In the early days of distilling, pioneers fermented yeast, water, and corn, and Cavehill bourbon pays homage to this process with a grain mash of seventy percent corn, ten percent malted wheat, ten percent honey malted barley, and ten percent malted barley to create a four-grain, triple malt whiskey those previous generations would undoubtedly approve of.

Each blend at Rabbit Hole evidences its commitment to innovation and celebrating tradition. For instance, Dareringer (inspired by Zamanian's wife) is a straight bourbon whisky finished in PX Sherry casks, marrying Spain and Kentucky in a fruity finish with a hint of vanilla. Boxergrail, an homage to Louisville's august boxing legacy, is a robust rye whisky with a ninety-five percent rye mash, offering a balanced blend of sweetness and spice.

Serving as a physical manifestation of their forwardthinking, in 2018, Rabbit Hole opened a distillery in Louisville, Kentucky's NULU neighborhood, a buzzy area known for its arts, culture, and culinary scene. In contrast to the brick and iron-framed windows of historic buildings on nearby Distillery Row, Rabbit Hole's architecture presents a modern 44 slmag.net

take on a distillery as a luminous landmark with a large glass facade, courtyard, and an open-air terrace that showcases the entire process of crafting bourbon from grain to bottle. Just as Zamanian is proud to be a part of the whisky revival in Louisville, he is equally keen on being a cornerstone of the neighborhood, which has seen more than $400 million in investments since the distillery opened.

The Rabbit Hole distillery welcomes some 50,000 visitors annually, and Zamanian believes we're just at the beginning of what whiskey can be. It's a sentiment reflected by wine and spirits juggernaut Pernod Ricard, who acquired a majority stake in Rabbit Hole in 2019, just seven years after Zamanian founded the company. During meetings with Alexandre Ricard, CEO of Pernod Ricard, Zamanian said he was reassured that he would retain creative freedom and "no handcuffs." The partnership has already resulted in a new brand, the Mary Dowling Whiskey Company, inspired by the "Mother of Bourbon," a successful female distiller in the male-dominated world of pre-Prohibition bourbon, who moved production to Mexico in 1926. Presently producing two distinct whiskies, their Mary Dowling Tequila Barrel is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey finished in tequila casks to honor Mary's D & W Distillery in Juarez. Storytelling through distillation, particularly of brands lost to time, is something Zamanian is enthusiastic about and what he feels will ultimately separate a good bourbon from a truly great one. sl

NATURAL SELECTION Historic Champagne house Leclerc Briant builds on its legacy as a pioneer in biodynamic winemaking.

Written by Bridget Williams

Deep in the cellar of Leclerc Briant in Epernay, France, I spied the standard trappings anyone who has spent time in a similar setting would recognize, namely orderly rows of oak barrels playing the waiting game as the wine inside slowly oxygenates. However, in the muted light of the chilled cavernous space, one is quick to note foreign forms: glass globes, terracotta eggs, a sandstone vessel, a barrel made of pure titanium, and a stainless-steel barrel concealing a treasure more valuable than wine: a lining of 24-carat gold two microns thick.

This experimentation is all in a day's work for winemaker Hervé Jestin, who has been at the forefront of biodynamic winemaking and bioenergetics for over three decades. He's been the lead winemaker at Leclerc Briant since it was purchased—some would argue saved from being entirely swallowed up by larger Champagne houses—by Mark Nunnelly and his wife Denise Dupré (who also own nearby Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa) in 2012.

Lucien Leclerc founded the family vigneron estate in the village of Cumières in 1872. In 1955, Bertrand Leclerc and his wife Jacqueline Briant moved the company's head office to Epernay, thereby elevating its status as a full-fledged Champagne house.

Bertrand is credited with experimenting with organic viticulture in the 1960s, something his son Pascal took to the next level in 1990 when he introduced bio-dynamic methods to 50 acres of vineyards.

Following his untimely death in 2010, Pascal's daughters sold most of the company's 75 acres to larger Champagne houses. Nunnelly and Dupré's acquisition of the brand included the winery, cellars, offices,

and 32 acres of vineyards. Wanting to build on Pascal's legacy, they hired Jestin, a respected global authority on biodynamic winemaking who had worked alongside Pascal from the late 1990s. Rounding out the C-suite at CEO is Champagne native Frédéric Zeimett, who spent 20 years at Moët & Chandon.

We recently sat down for an elegant lunch with Zeimett in the Zuber-papered dining room at Le 25bis by Leclerc Briant (le25bis. com), an exquisite five-bedroom guest house and wineshop on the prestigious Avenue de Champagne in Epernay. "Champagne is magic; it's a gathering point that brings people together in a way that wine cannot," Zeimett stated.

As an arbiter of that afternoon's enchantment, while our group dined on Breton lobster roasted with truffle oil, Zeimett placed a barnacle-crusted Champagne bottle on the table. The 2017 Leclerc Briant Abyss Champagne inside, a blend of thirtyfour percent pinot noir, thirty-three percent chardonnay, and thirty-percent pinot meunier, spent 10 months submerged nearly 200 feet in the same waters our lobster once roamed: just off the Breton coast where the English Channel meets the Atlantic Ocean.

The first pass of the Champagne's nose was like an electric shock to the senses, a feeling, Zeimett says, is attributable to the fact that the Champagne "has a great and powerful story to tell." Zeimett elucidated that "submarine" aging is just one of Leclerc Briant's many projects focused on "capturing the different energies present in nature and the universe." slmag.net

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After lunch, we were escorted to the LeClerc Briant winery by Paul Lebard, director of VIP guest experiences, during which we learned how minimization of human intervention maximizes quality.

Many aspects of the process are bespoke, from hand-picked grapes to tanks designed by Jestin for this winery. Each vintage undergoes nine to ten months of barrel aging and fermentation, a timeframe determined per biodynamic principles.

While we marveled at the unconventional aging vessels in the cellar, Paul did a stellar job explaining how the myriad materials impact the wine's maturation. Still, when we met Jestin, the Willy Wonka of wine behind this oenophile's playground, we truly understood the method behind what some would perceive as madness.

At the winery's rooftop tasting room, which opens to a walled garden, Jestin explained that "wine holds the memory of our planet" and, as a result, "creates a special consequence to the wine."

Jestin shared that Rudolf Steiner, founder of the biodynamic approach, didn't provide any guidance when it came to viticulture,

so he and others of the same mindset have had to create their own textbook. "It's why we wake up in the morning," he explained. Jestin's passion is palpable as he explains that his ultimate goal is not an endproduct for consumers, what he calls a "horizontal dimension," but a "vertical dimension" for humans. "Drinking Champagne should be a mind-body experience," he said, adding that "when you share wine, it's building bridges between the people enjoying it and those who made it."

While naysayers say biodynamic agriculture is pseudoscience, I find no fault in Jestin's reverential regard for the process from ground to glass. He is even quick to acknowledge that some people have called his unconventional approach, in which he sees winemaking as "communicating with the ancients via the soil," crazy from time to time. However, his results speak for themselves. Jestin's zero dosage cuvées frequently appear on Wine Spectator's list of the world's top 100 wines. "The wines I am making now are the ones I dreamed about when I started forty years ago," Jestin said. sl slmag.net

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HEY NOW YOU'RE AN ALL STAR Compiled by Bridget Williams

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This page, clockwise from top left: Nouvel Heritage medium star bracelet ($2,100). Available through Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, and nouvelheritage.com. Colette Jewelry Comète bracelet ($1,000; colettejewelry.com). Anna Maccieri Rossi Aventurine painted day and night art necklace (annamaccierirossi.com). Lionheart Moon to My Stars lapis lazuli charm (from $1,675; lionheartjewelry.com). Opposite page, clockwise from top left: Samantha Tea Astrid ring ($3,310; samanthatea.com). Chris Ploof Designs Damascus star pendant (chrisploof.com). Eden Presley Harem pinky ring ($2,000; edenpresley.com). Bondeye Jewelry Howlite signet ring ($850; bondeyejewelry.com). David Yurman Starburst cable bracelet ($1,300). Available through Diamond Cellar in Columbus and Nashville, Moyer Fine Jewelers and Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, Davis Jewelers in Louisville, and davidyurman. com. Modern Moghul Karana earrings ($4,500; modernmoghul.com). Sorellina Constellation drop earrings ($4,100; sorellinanyc.com). Aurelie Gi NIXIE stud earrings ($265; aureliegi. com). Reza Revolution earrings (worldofreza.com). Orly Marcel Fez inlay signet ring ($9,600; orlymarcel.com). Pamela Zamore star cigar band ($5,200; pamelazamore.com). Ashley Zhang Jewelry Victorian diamond star bangle ($2,550; ashleyzhangjewelry.com).

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Moonrise above the Under Canvas Lake Powell - Grand Staircase property. Photo by Bridget Williams.

OVER THE MOON AT UNDER CANVAS The segment-defining brand offers upscale safari-style accommodations and unparalleled access to some of the United States' most iconic and beloved outdoor destinations.

Written by Bridget Williams / Photos courtesy of Under Canvas

An unfamiliar sound roused me from a deep sleep. I sprung upright, hurdling the grey area between dreamland and daybreak and into an immediate state of alertness. Was the racket coming from an early risers' party, an emergency, or the last call for breakfast?

Overnight, the temperature had dropped like a lead balloon, and I sat completely still, the tendrils of my warm breath creating curlicues in the air as I allowed the cacophony of calls to clarify in my head. After a few more minutes, I realized it wasn't a group of revelers but a pack of coyotes greeting the day.

Comfy and warm under the weight of multiple blankets, I touched the tip of my nose as confirmation of the chill. Freeing myself from the bed's warm embrace, I unzipped a corner of the door to my tent to witness the day's first light silhouetting the trees with an orange glow. Entranced by the scene, I moved out to the deck, savoring the scent of wood fires burning in the stoves of 50 slmag.net

neighboring tents. As the field of wildflowers in the grasslands of the Bar N Ranch—just 10 minutes from the primary Yellowstone National Park West Entrance—swayed in the breeze, I thought: this is why people come here – for moments just like this.

Under Canvas' West Yellowstone camp was the company's first, debuting in 2012. The brand has since grown to encompass eleven camps from Moab to Maine, all with direct or easy access to National Parks and recreation areas. "Essentially, what we do is connect people to the outdoors and each other," remarked CEO Matt Gaghen, a native of Montana and a passionate outdoor advocate, during a campfire chat near the banks of the Yellowstone River at Under Canvas' newest location, North Yellowstone – Paradise Valley. "It's our mission to offer upscale hospitality in nature-oriented settings complimented by subtle programming that is exceptionally executed."

A tent at the West Yellowstone Camp.

Interior of a Stargazer tent in the Paradise Valley camp.

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Live music at Pine Falls Lodge near the Paradise Valley camp.

The fifty-acre North Yellowstone property, boasting one mile of Yellowstone River frontage and prime fly fishing just steps from camp, opened this past summer on a parcel that's part of a fifteenthousand-acre, fifth-generation family-owned ranch. It's a setting that Gaghen, whose father was a Yellowstone park ranger, said "is quintessential Montana to a Montanian."

I grew up camping for family vacations, living the "van life" before it was a hashtag, so Under Canvas' "glamping" tents weren't a tough sell. For those not as seasoned, the experience is hardly roughing it, with tents boasting amenities including ensuite bathrooms with hot water pull chain showers, a polished concrete sink that would be right at home in an urban loft, plush kingsize beds with luxury linens, and a wood-burning stove for chilly nights. Premium Stargazer tents feature an arced clear window at the head of the bed, while suite tents offer additional elbow room with an expanded seating area. My favorite upgrade has to be the kid-sized "hive" tents with two twin beds, allowing younger guests to experience semi-autonomous adventures. Under Canvas tests and constructs its bespoke and patented tents at its corporate office in Bozeman, Montana. What's missing is electricity and 52 slmag.net

WIFI, intentional omissions that Gaghen says prompt guests to disconnect from technology and connect with others.

With the exception of the West Yellowstone camp, which features a large brick-and-mortar restaurant, expansive main lobby tents serve as a hub of camp life, where guests can enjoy upscale breakfast and dinners served from café-style kitchens. The food at each location far exceeded anything I'd expected from a camp kitchen. The varied and flavorful menus focus on locally sourced ingredients and offer choices for those with specific dietary needs and preferences. Complimentary coffee and tea are available throughout the day, and there are grab-and-go selections for lunch and snacking.

Each Under Canvas outpost offers a host of complimentary camp programming, from yoga to live music and family-friendly scavenger hunts, guided hikes, and arts and crafts. Nightly fireside s'more making is the most popular activity, with guests gathering to swap stories about the day's adventures and marvel at star-filled skies that those living in light-polluted urban areas rarely get to experience.

Under Canvas Lake Powell - Grand Staircase property is the first-ever DarkSky-certified resort in the world, a distinction that demonstrates its environmental leadership in the hospitality industry.

Under Canvas Lake Powell - Grand Staircase property is the first-ever DarkSky-certified resort in the world.

Photo by Travis Burke.

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The Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone National Park.

Photo by Bridget Williams.

A slot canyon at Under Canvas Lake Powell - Grand Staircase.

Photo by Travis Burke.

Fly fishing guides in the Yellowstone River, just steps from Under Canvas’ Paradise Valley camp.

Photo by Bridget Williams.

There are nearly 6,000 bison in Yellowstone National Park.

Photo by Bridget Williams.

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Traveling down the Yellowstone River is McKenziestyle drift boat hand-built by Jason Cajune can be arranged by the concierge at the Paradise Valley camp.

Photo by Bridget Williams.

Paradise Valley camp.

At West Yellowstone, we "met" a herd of elderly wild horses rescued by the general manager. At North Yellowstone-Paradise Valley, we hiked to Pine Creek Falls, which is located in a designated road-free wilderness area larger than Yellowstone. Later, we capped off our evening with live music and craft beer at Pine Falls Lodge (an occasional haunt of John Mayer, who lives nearby). At the Lake Powell Camp, perched atop a boulder-strewn valley, we hiked a trail leading to a hidden slot canyon.

An in-camp concierge operates out of the lobby tent and can share insider tips on favorite under-the-radar hikes and craft bespoke guided outdoor experiences, from fly fishing to rock climbing. At North Yellowstone, we floated down the river, noshing on charcuterie and sipping chardonnay in the hull of a handsome wood McKenzie-style drift boat hand-built by Jason Cajune. The lifelong outdoorsman, hunter, and adventurer learned his craft from his father, who grew up on the Flathead Reservation. The waitlist for those wanting to get their hands on one of his boats can span as much as six years. Rather than ramp up production, Cajune prefers to go at his own pace and enjoys operating the guiding side of his

business alongside his adult daughters. An Under Canvas organized fly-fishing expedition introduced us to the most passionate and patient instructors, who quickly made us feel like seasoned pros.

After visiting four Under Canvas locations, it would be easy to go on and on about the amenities, the caring and capable staff, the stunning beauty of each location, and the company's sound environmental practices, but honestly, what really struck me time and again, was witnessing the impact of the outdoors on the younger set. For instance, one evening during dinner at the Lake Powell camp, I got teary-eyed when a group of raucous boys paused their roughhousing to marvel at the sunset, with one excitedly exclaiming, "The whole sky is a rainbow!" And, as someone who fondly remembers a childhood largely spent outside, taking stock of children's muddy knees and animated conversations that gave way to drooping eyelids as they sat around the campfire at the end of an activity-filled day recalled my fireside chat with Gaghen, who said that the passion for his position at Under Canvas stems from "taking my childhood memories and helping make them happen for others." sl For more information about Under Canvas, visit undercanvas.com.

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NIGHT MOVES Maserati unveils MC20 Notte, which it calls "a fierce creature of the nocturnal world."

Written by Andre James / Photos courtesy of Maserati

Following on the heels of the hugely successful 2023 Maserati MC20 coupe and Cielo convertible sports cars, with eager customers quickly snatching up the entire first-year production allotment, Maserati has announced the MC20 Notte, the first of its promised limited edition super sports cars. Meaning "night" in Italian, the Notte Edition of the MC20 is limited to 50 units globally.

The Notte Edition springs from an internal collaboration with Andrea Bertolini, Maserati reference driver and 2010 GT1 world champion for the marque. In contrast to its shiny roof, the sportscar's body offers a new dramatic paint finish: a matte version of the glossy 'nero essenza' hue presently available on the MC20. Bertolini's "Midas touch" is credited for turning the details - the Trident, the side logos, and the Maserati signature – from silver to matte white gold. The 20" matte black birdcage wheels feature accents in flat white gold, while the brake calipers are black.

The minimalist cabin of the MC20 Notte features 6-way power sport seats in Alcantara black/grey with yellow stitching.

The unmistakable Trident is emblazoned on the headrests, and the Alcantara sport steering wheel boasts carbon fiber inserts.

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An exclusive metal plate celebrating the MC20 Notte Edition and a distinctive 'UNA DI 50' (one of 50) signature are applied between the two headrests.

Under the hood, the Notte builds upon the standard MC20, with a mid-mounted 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6 Nettuno engine putting out 621 horsepower and 538 lb-ft of torque and linked to an 8-speed twin-clutch automatic transmission that pushes its power through the rear wheels.

The MC20 Notte is a project of Maserati's in-house Fuoriserie customization program, which Klaus Busse, Head of Maserati design, says "is conceived to create one-of-a-kind rolling sculptures for our clients."

To celebrate the MC20 Notte's launch, global brand ambassador and MC20 enthusiast David Beckham and Andrea Bertolini starred in a short film where Beckham's dazzling MC20 is transformed into a new racing creature blazing through the night across the city and on the racetrack. Following a sneak preview exclusively for Maserati Tridente members, MC20 Notte is now available worldwide. Its future owners will be invited to experience the thrill of a Maserati on-track driving experience. sl

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CHAMPAGNE DREAMS Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa Written by Bridget Williams

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For a man so often associated with being small in stature, Napoleon Bonaparte looms large in French lore and legend, elevated to the forefront once again courtesy of director Ridley Scott's recently released epic historical drama film. Napoleon's proclivity for grandiosity contrasted with his natural frugality, with Champagne being counted among the rare gastronomic pleasures he truly appreciated. A lifelong close friend of Jean-Rémy Moët, the founding grandson of the iconic champagne house Moët et Chandon, Napoleon would often visit the Moët winery in Epernay to buy a few cases during many of his campaigns. "I cannot live without Champagne; in case of victory, I deserve it; in case of defeat, I need it," is a quote famously lent to the emperor and military commander.

Another of Napoleon's frequent stops in France's Champagne region was a 19th-century post house, where the

kings of France traditionally stopped en route to their coronation in Reims. Picturesquely perched on a hilltop near the commune of Champillon, the site offers sweeping views of UNESCO-listed vineyards, forest, and the nearby quaint village of Hautvillers, where Benedictine monk Dom Pérignon is interred at the base of the altar in the humble Abbey of St Peter, founded in 665 AD. Today, the humble royal rest stop is preserved as a Michelinstarred restaurant and cornerstone of the region's only five-star hotel and spa, aptly named Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa. Already operating as a hotel when it was acquired in 2014 by American married entrepreneurs Mark Nunnelly and Denise Dupré, the couple retained Reims-based architect Giovanni Pace to lead a multi-million-dollar renovation and expansion of the property, which reopened in July 2018. slmag.net

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The spa's indoor pool overlooks the UNESCO-listed vineyards of Champillon.

Unassuming from the approach, the forty-seven-room property's amphitheater-like architecture crowns the hillside like a champagne cork, embracing interiors that are a master class in quiet luxury, orchestrated by Parisian interior designer Sybille de Margerie. Modern in its approach, upon closer inspection, one is quick to note classical design elements associated with French history and local heritage. The hotel's logo—a horse and rider – first appears at the entrance and is repeated throughout, including the walls of its Le Bellevue restaurant to guest rooms' thresholds.

At check-in, guests are offered a glass of the house bubbly, Leclerc Briant, a house founded 150 years ago in Cumières and resuscitated by Nunnelly and Dupré after they purchased it in 2012.

The tiny bubbles in our glasses mirrored the light-filled interior's effervescence, highlighted by light wood tones, a soft and calming color palette, unique lighting elements, and nods to natural aspects of the local terroir.

All the guest accommodations are large and thoughtfully designed with an ombré vine-inspired wallpaper adorning the wall behind the bed, heated floors in the oversized bathroom, and plenty of closet space. Arguably, the pièce de résistance are large private terraces, perfect for sipping bubbly and savoring the view, including the most spectacular sunsets I've seen in recent memory. Much like the weather in my home state of Kentucky, where it's often said, "If 60 slmag.net

you don't like the weather, stick around a day or two, it'll change," I imagine that at least one French thinker or poet has described Champagne's skies as a femme inconstante.

Alcohol is often considered counterintuitive to restive sleep.

However, the hotel's unique Royal Sleep Experience package, which includes mocktails and a special dinner menu with sleep-supporting ingredients, a bedside sound machine with guided meditation options, a sleep mask embroidered with "sweet bubbly dreams," Sleep & Glow melatonin drops, sleep infusion herbal tea, and Aime essential oil sleeping mist, all but ensures a good night's rest.

Having the distinction of being Champagne's first destination spa, an entire ground floor wing of the Royal Champagne is given entirely over to wellness, the centerpiece of which is a sprawling heated 25m indoor pool with floor-to-ceiling valley-facing windows. There's also a hammam, an outdoor infinity pool and hot tub, a beauty bar, a well-equipped fitness center, a yoga room, and nine spa treatment rooms. The spa has forged impressive partnerships, including Jo de Carvalho, one of just 50 people in the world considered a master of the Kobido facial massage technique, Biologique Recherche, KOS Paris, and their newest partner, Clarins.

I indulged with a results driven but relaxing Clarins myBlend facial, which combined deft human touch with technology, including an LED mask to stimulate cells close-up.

View from the lobby of a besopoke crystal chandelier, designed to mimic flowered grapedvines, that's suspended above the library.

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Pastry chef Claire Santos Lopes sharing her confections during a holiday tea service.

A statue of Bacchus watches over a vineyard in Champillon.

Chargers in Le Royal feature love letters penned by Napoleon.

Each of the spacious guest rooms provide vineyard views.

The spa's infinifty pool is heated for year-round enjoyment.

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Franco-Italian chef Paolo Boscaro oversees the 40-seat fine dining restaurant, Le Royal, the interior of which is heavy on Napoleonic references related to the women he loved.

Under a ceiling dripping with crystals, or outside on the sprawling terrace in warmer months, Le Bellevue is buzzy from breakfast through dinner.

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Royal Champagne offers two dining options: the gastronomic restaurant, Le Royal, and the more casual but no less chic Le Bellevue bistro. Franco-Italian Chef Paolo Boscaro oversees the 40-seat fine dining restaurant, Le Royal, the interior of which is heavy on Napoleonic references related to the women he loved. Portraits of his wives and mistresses are emblazoned on curved half walls in the room's corners. Love letters penned by Napoleon are reproduced in the round on specially commissioned chargers, while a statue of the emperor stands at the center of the room beneath a bubble-esque pendant-style light fixture. Head sommelier Philippe Marques hand-picks a local winemaker to create a pairing menu each month.

During our visit, the six-course gastronomic tour-de-force, beautifully presented in a well-choreographed fashion, was paired with Champagne by biodynamic winemaker Francoise Bedel, who works with her son Vincent Desaubeau in the Marne Valley's Meunier-rich western fringe.

Inside, under a ceiling dripping with crystals, or outside on the sprawling terrace in warmer months, Le Bellevue is buzzy from breakfast through dinner. The diverse menu offers local specialties like Jambon cuit de Reims, to indulgent black truffle risotto. The adjacent Abysse Bar & Terrace is ideal for an aperitif and caviar, or a juicy cheeseburger.

If you've been told to never trust a skinny chef, you can throw that advice out the window after tasting the confections of petite pastry chef Claire Santos Lopes. Sublime without being overly sweet, her creative capabilities are on full display during seasonal Royal Tea Time, served fireside in the dramatic two-story library lounge. Lopes' winter offerings were laden with chocolate, dried fruits, and nuts. The latter, Claire pointed out, are full of 64 slmag.net

antioxidants and vitamin E that can help you get through the cold months "like squirrels in the winter."

Royal Champagne is arguably the best place in the region to take a deep dive into learning all about Champagne, from on-site sommelier-led tastings to the hotel's Champagne Chauffeur program, which provides entrée to tasting rooms not typically open to the public via partnerships forged by hotel management with local growers and makers who often meet with their colleagues at Le Bellevue restaurant for a power breakfast or lunch. A self-guided two-mile trek through vineyards and forest park leads to Hauteviller, full of typical maisons champenoises and 140 whimsical wrought iron signs, historically used as a visual depiction of the various businesses inside. Epernay, and its famous Avenue de Champagne, is about 4 miles away, while Reims is less than a 30-minute drive.

We enjoyed a two-hour on-site and in-depth tasting at Salon Fines Bulles at a long table adjacent to a glass Champagne cellar with assistant head sommelier Antony Laviron (one of five sommeliers on staff), who has been with Royal Champagne since it opened. Among the 450 Champagnes from the hotel's extensive wine list, the approachable Antony chose four of varying ages for our tasting, during which he dispelled several myths, including that Champagne must always be served super-chilled and the "good stuff" can and should be cellared. Our engaged group sipped with intention, learning to appreciate the nuances of flavor and texture.

A lover of old vintages, Antony is adept at romancing the vine and the enduring allure of Champagne as a drink and a destination.

"Imagine that a couple chooses a bottle from the 1980s," he surmised as we tasted a 2004 Gosset' Grand Millesime' Brut. "It could have been harvested on the day they met or were married, and now they and it have both traveled here to finally meet at this very tasting room." sl

50 & COUNTING

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR WONDERFUL GUESTS AND VALUED STAFF MEMBERS FOR MAKING SPERRY’S SUCH A SPECIAL PLACE!

Experience the beauty of orchids this winter and be transported to a tropical paradise. The sweeping staircase in the Mansion sets the stage for the Loggia display where stylized columns erupt in elaborate headdresses exploding with orchids, while a lush ground layer becomes an interpretation of a forest floor. New this year, don’t miss the stunning display in the atrium of Botanic Hall.

Reserve tickets at cheekwood.org

Cheekwood is funded in part by

SEE BLUFF CITY The Memphian is an artistic hub to enjoy Memphis’ classic and new sights Written by Melissa Mahanes / Photos courtesy of The Memphian On the banks of the Mississippi River, Memphis has always celebrated a rich musical and cultural history. It is the birthplace of blues and rock ‘n’ roll, home to Graceland, Sun Studios, and The National Civil Rights Museum, just to name a few. Memphis is enjoying a reboot, and the epic revitalization of the last decade has made it a delightful destination that goes beyond their world-famous barbeque and Elvis’ mansion gates.

As part of Marriott’s Tribute Portfolio, The Memphian is an independent boutique hotel full of bold colors, prints, and noteworthy art installations. Opened in 2021, the Memphian is in midtown Overton Square, the “Heart of the Arts.” The hotel is within walking distance of five live music venues, including The Memphis Ballet and many new restaurants and shops, and is only a few minutes’ drive to Beale Street, Graceland, The Memphis Zoo, and Rhodes College.

The 106 guestrooms and suites are well-appointed, with all the space and comfort you would expect. Each room has an espresso machine and refrigerator, and each of the seven floors has a centrally

located hydration station to refill your water bottles. There are two suite offerings. The junior suite sitting area includes a sofa, chairs, and desk in a combined living and sleeping space. The larger suites offer living and dining areas separate from the bedroom and bath.

All rooms include plush bedding and signature toiletries. Canine companions are welcome (up to 25 pounds), and there is ample on-site parking with electric vehicle charging stations.

The lobby is a bright and eclectic gathering space, with artwork from local artists and vintage shops and a gift shop corner with locally sourced items from Memphis artisans. A central chandelier is comprised of what seems like hundreds of colorful fishing lures arranged in concentric circles. Inviting cheetah print chairs, colorful photographic pop art prints, extravagant neon chandeliers, and a lobby piano round out the comfortable living room. The hotel hosts an ongoing monthly Gallery Evenings series featuring installations of works by local artists. These events are open to the public and provide a lively happy hour with an opportunity to meet the artist and purchase their works directly. slmag.net

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The Complicated Pilgrim is located on the hotel’s first floor, just off the lobby, and is a welcoming spot where you can begin your day with breakfast, stay for lunch, or enjoy dinner. Since a pilgrim is someone on a journey, it is an appropriate place to start your day or wrap it up in the colorful seating and bar area. Chef Scott Donnelly’s menus highlight the region’s bounty, sourcing products from purveyors committed to community and quality.

Breakfast standouts include overnight oats flavored with chocolate and almonds, a full selection of eggs, and a chicken biscuit with sausage gravy, bacon cheddar, and breakfast potatoes. Lunch features sandwiches, pastas, salads, and a double-stacked Cooper Street Burger. Dinner features salads, vegetarian dishes, seafood, and steaks. We certainly look forward to exploring more of the menu on our next pilgrimage to Memphis.

The Memphian has a stunning rooftop cocktail bar, Tiger and Peacock. Guests can take in some of the best views of Bluff City while enjoying small bites and craft cocktails. We enjoyed a charcuterie board and some delicious roasted tomatoes and burrata. You can be adventurous and order a concoction based on your astrological sign.

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to the full-sized taxidermized zebra behind the bar. An ethereal psychic’s lounge inspires the main bar area’s décor. The ceiling is hand-painted with an astrological mural with a gold leaf embellished sun and constellations of the zodiac. The venue features an adjacent hot pink champagne room.

You do not have to be staying at The Memphian to enjoy a visit to Tiger and Peacock. It is a perfect date night or girls’ night out destination with décor that delivers an abundance of Instagrammable backdrops. Depending on the time of year, outdoor seating is available.

The Memphian is a fresh and funky place to rest your blue suede shoes after a day exploring all that Memphis has to offer, no matter if your journey involves BBQ ribs, Graceland and The Lisa Marie, or some of the new cultural happenings in Overton Park. Check out The Memphian— you’ll thank us, thank us very much. sl The Memphian, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel / 21 South Cooper Street, Memphis, Tennessee 38104 / (901) 276-9311 / www.thememphian.com / @thememphian Complicated Pilgrim / (901) 538-7309 / www.tigerandpeacockmemphis.com / @complicated. pilgrim / Reservations: opentable.com / Hours: Monday-Friday 6:30am-10:00pm, Saturday 6:30am-12:00pm, 5:00pm-10:00pm, Sunday 6:30am-12:00pm. Breakfast 6:30am-11:00am, Lunch 11:30am-2:00pm, Happy Hours 2:00pm-5:00pm, Dinner 5:00pm-10:00pm Tiger and Peacock / www.complicatedpilgrim.com / @tiger_andpeacock / Reservations: opentable. com / 21 and older with dress code and food and drink requirements / Hours: Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday 5:00pm-10:00pm, Thursday-Saturday 5:00pm-12:00am, Closed Monday

Bel l e Me a de Wi nery

615.356.6164 w w w. b e l l e m e a d e w i n e r y. c o m

Creating comfortable elegance for all of my clients since 1999

leslienewpherinteriors.com

BRANCHING OUT We heard through the grapevine about Harvest Wine Market’s new owner, Seema Prasad

Written by Melissa Mahanes / Photos courtesy of Jen McDonald, Miel and Harvest Wine Market Meeting Seema Prasad was such a pleasure for me. She has a quiet strength and endless energy that I found inspiring. Instead of resting on her laurels and celebrating the 15th anniversary of her fourth restaurant, Miel, she is enthusiastically delving into purchasing Harvest Wine Market in Belle Meade’s Westgate Shopping Center. The purchase of Harvest Wine Market was a logical extension of Seema’s passion for connecting with others through wine. Opened in 2008, Miel has a stellar reputation for providing diners with responsibly grown food from local purveyors alongside a specially curated wine list. Her passion for wine is evident when you peruse the restaurant’s wine list, which features extraordinary offerings unlike any in Nashville. She also takes

immense pride in training her attentive staff on the wines they feature with appropriate pairing suggestions to complement their ever-changing seasonal menus.

Seema wants to take her diners and drinkers on a journey to put the “best juice in your glass” by introducing new varieties and expanding their knowledge. After traveling extensively throughout her life to parts of Italy, France, and the West Coast, Seema has gained knowledge of many types of wines. She has always loved showcasing that through hosting educational classes alongside Chef Jason La Iacona. In January alone, they are hosting classes with Introductions to Rhône, Tuscan, and Mountain Wines, a Bardstown Bourbon Dinner, and a 5-course Cellar Dinner. slmag.net

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Opening Harvest felt like a natural step for Seema, as all wines from Miel will be available for purchase, with a few other key crossovers in the works, like small bites for purchase. She is building an extensive Tasting Bar where clients can sample products from renowned and emerging wine producers. Helping people find their favorite wine is Seema’s love language—she wants to make Harvest Wine Market Nashville’s premier wine and spirits shopping experience while maintaining its friendly neighborhood feel. We look forward to seeing Seema crushing it at Harvest!

Here’s a taste of what Seema is enjoying right now, with some of her insightful notes: • Champagne from Dosnon—From the Côtes des Bar region in the Aube, Champagne, this rosé from Davy Dosnon is bone-dry, spicy and structured.

• Rosé that you can enjoy all year—I have 2019 Chateau de Pibarnon Rosé from Bandol on the list at Miel in a 375ml half bottle. This is a rich, structured rosé to pair with meat. Delicious!

• 2022 Minimum Chardonnay—From the Goulburn Valley in Victoria, Australia. Clean, fresh wine with flavors of white peach and crisp red apple. Seriously good with shrimp on the Barbie. Watch for more very well-made Australian wines in our market now that Legend Imports exists!

• 2021 Erbaluna Barbera, Piemonte, Italy—Barbera, the lesser-known grape from the Piedmont, makes a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with so many wintery dishes, such as rosemary and mustard-crusted pork tenderloin or polenta with roasted mushrooms.

• 2021 Craven, Syrah, Stellenbosch, South Africa—Juicy and structured, this wine is made from fruit grown just outside Capetown in the Stellenbosch region. The clay soil there gives this wine its boldness, deep color, and richness on your palate.

Drink with smoked brisket. sl Harvest Wine Market / 6043 Highway 100, Nashville, TN 37205 / (615) 750-3476 / www.harvestwinemkt.com / Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 10:00am-8:00pm, Wednesday 9:00am-8:00pm, Friday and Saturday 10:00am-9:00pm, Sunday 12:00pm-5:00pm Miel / 343 53rd Avenue North, Nashville, TN 37209 / (615) 298-3663 / mielrestaurant.com / TuesdayWednesday 5:00pm-8:00pm, Thursday-Saturday 5:00pm-9:00pm, Closed Sunday and Monday

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TAKE CARE

Abe’s Garden Community opens The Club to provide care and support Information and photos courtesy of Abe’s Garden Community

The Club at Cool Springs, a Hearthstone Memory Support Program designed to meet the needs of Williamson County residents living with dementia, recently opened its doors to patrons in November.

This brain health program represents a significant milestone as the county’s first licensed adult day program specializing in the care and engagement of those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

The dedicated center has been designed to provide the highest quality of support to individuals living with cognitive loss, respite for their family caregivers, and unparalleled dementia care in the area.

It is estimated that by 2025, Tennessee will have about 140,000 residents living with Alzheimer’s Disease, which is the 4th leading cause of death in Williamson County. While doctors and scientists are working hard to find a cure for Alzheimer’s, Abe’s Garden Community is working hard to improve the quality of life for those living with dementia and their caregivers. They are fulfilling a local need by launching the county’s first licensed adult day program specializing in dementia engagement.

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The Club at Cool Springs offers patrons best-in-class, outcome-based, and research-driven programming rooted in the I’m Still Here® philosophy. The Club’s mission is to promote a unique experience through socialization, education, and innovative techniques. By adopting this approach, The Club aims to create an environment where individuals with cognitive decline can thrive, remain interested, and maintain their sense of identity and purpose.

The I’m Still Here® care approach is backed by over 25 years of research and field testing. It creates opportunities for true s and increased quality of life for persons living with dementia and their care partners. I’m Still Here® utilizes sustainable, nonpharmacological approaches to treat the agitation, aggression, apathy, and anxiety that individuals living with dementia often experience. I’m Still Here® combines meaningful activities, specialized communication techniques, and an enriched environment to provide choice, and true purpose regardless of the level of cognitive challenge. This approach increases levels

of self-confidence, significance, and well-being by creating opportunities for those living with dementia to express their preferences and choices.

• Support for Families: The program also offers valuable support and resources to families and caregivers, helping them navigate the dementia journey and providing respite during the week.

Key highlights of The Club at Cool Springs include: • Innovative Programming: The Club members will benefit from a wide range of activities and programs designed to stimulate their cognitive, social, and emotional well-being.

These activities are specifically crafted to align with the I’m Still Here® philosophy.

• Expert Caregivers: Every team member is specially trained in dementia care and the I’m Still Here® approach.

They provide compassionate, personalized support tailored to each patron’s unique needs.

• Safe and Welcoming Environment: The Club features a secure and comfortable environment, ensuring the safety and well-being of all patrons.

The Club at Cool Springs was developed by Abe’s Garden Community, an internationally recognized senior care provider in Nashville, establishing an elevated model of care for those living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. The nonprofit organization’s 501(c)(3) mission is to establish a replicable model for senior life that is focused on brain health, wellness, and purposeful living. Abe’s Garden Community focuses on improving the quality of life for older adults and provides all they serve with person-directed care and enhanced programming. sl For more information about The Club, please visit https://www.abesgarden.org/abes-gardenclub. To apply to be a member, contact Jaime William at (615) 910-3789 or jwilliam@ abesgarden.org. The Club at Cool Springs / 1909 Mallory Lane, Suite 203, Franklin, TN 37067 / (615) 857-5162 / Open to members on weekdays 9:00 am-3:00pm, with extended hours upon assessment. Abe’s Garden Community / 115 Woodmont Boulevard, Nashville, TN 37205 / (615) 997-3030 / abesgarden.org

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CLEMENTINE HALL NASHVILLE’S BOUTIQUE VENUE

S t a r t y o u r i n d i v i d ua l jo u r n e y a t Cle m e n tin e Ha ll.co m

Sowi n g Clov er Photography

MARY WINSTON REAMES & KEVIN CRAMER November 11, 2023 / Photography by Jeremy Harwell

Mary Winston and Kevin met in college at SMU and were introduced by Kevin’s sister, one of Mary Winston’s sorority sisters. They shared a Latin Class, then walked into the next class and were enrolled together then as well. Mary Winston says, “The rest is history!”

Debordieu, South Carolina, is one of the oldest coastal communities on the East Coast and is a place that is very special to the Reames Family. They welcomed guests on the first evening at Exchange Plantation, a historic rice plantation from the 1820s on the Pee Dee River.

The beautiful daytime outdoor ceremony was held by the marsh in Debordieu. Todd Jones, the bride’s childhood minister and retired Senior Pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Nashville, officiated the ceremony. Guests were happy to hold umbrellas over the smiling couple to shield them from the blessing of a light rain, making it even more magical.

Mary Winston’s gown from the Bride’s Room was an Allison Webb design further customized by Muna at Muna Couture with Monique Lhuillier lace to perfectly suit Mary Winston’s sparkly personality. Later in the evening, Mary Winston changed into her grandmother’s wedding dress.

The bride had 14 bridesmaids, and Kevin had 12 groomsmen, a mix of siblings, and college and high school friends. Mary Winston’s brother William from Boy Named Banjo and his wife Kynlie (a fellow Sophisticated Living wedding couple) sang Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing at the ceremony. The reception was held in a beautifully appointed tent with plenty of natural elements and a large dance floor.

Guests enjoyed the signature cocktail of spicy margaritas and food stations of Nashville hot chicken, short rib, and shrimp and grits. The raw bar of shrimp and oysters featured an ice sculpture of the family’s French Bulldog, Henry. slmag.net

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The couple’s favorite part of the night was dancing to Party on the Moon. The band kept everyone on their feet and rocking into the wee hours and even featured band outfit changes. Guests’ appetites were fortified with late night mini hamburgers and french fries. The bride’s mother, Leigh, said it was “the most joy I have ever felt. Such a

fun weekend celebrating sweet MW.” From the smiles all around, her sentiments were shared by all. After their honeymoon at Hermitage Bay in Antigua, The Cramers live in West Nashville. Mary Winston is a broker at JLL representing landlords, and Kevin is at Carter Haston in multifamily real estate acquisitions. sl slmag.net

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a e b Let’s your f o t par story

Enjoy Every Moment AT THE OLD OAKS FARM

HISTORIC EVENTS & LODGING VENUE NESTLED ON THE BORDER OF TENNESSEE & KENTUCKY B O O K N O W BY V I S T I N G T H E O L D O A K S FA R M . C O M | 2 7 0 . 6 0 4 . 5 1 6 4

ASK THE EXPERTS Ruthann and Eric Ross on the Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville Written by Ruthann and Eric Ross Attending the Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville is absolutely our favorite tradition and, in our opinion, the Nashville design event of the year. It allows the city to shine in such a special way for those who love and appreciate home, garden, and fine antiques. We have been attending as a couple for over 25 years. Long before we could afford to purchase anything, we’d make a date out of it and would stroll the floor admiring, learning from the knowledgeable dealers, and delighting in the fabulous garden displays.

Over the years, the Show has grown, moved to the Music City Center, and become the impressive nationally acclaimed event

that design lovers flock to year after year. With the busyness of the holidays behind, it is a pleasure to escape the dreary winter weather and step onto a floor of treasures arranged amidst a floral spring display that astounds you with beauty and architectural engineering.

We recommend attending the Show in its entirety…not a moment is to be missed, and the variety of events and programming offers something for everyone. The BEST way to do this is to purchase a Benefactor Package. This provides you with tickets to everything, is the best bang for your buck, and supports the Show’s longtime beneficiaries, Cheekwood and ECON Charities. slmag.net

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PREVIEW PARTY (Thursday, January 11) With tickets to Thursday evening’s Preview Party, you will get the first opportunity to purchase antiques and garden accessories before the Show opens to the public Friday morning. This dressy cocktail event is so special, with appetizers, cocktails, and live music among the gardens. It also wouldn’t be a Music City party without live entertainment, and we’re excited for this year’s Preview Party performance from Tyler Reese Tritt.

DAY ONE: SHOPPING, LECTURES & BOURBON PARTY (Friday, January 12) On Friday morning, we love to get back on the floor when the doors open at 9:00am to purchase those items we may have needed a night to “sleep on” before deciding to make the purchase.

With our Benefactor ticket package, we have preferred seating at the lecture series, which allows us extra time to shop before we head to the first Keynote Lecture event in one of the Music City Center ballrooms at noon. These speaking events are educational, entertaining, and fun for décor, design, and floral inspiration. Eric is particularly looking forward to hearing 84 slmag.net

from Ina Garten this year who he has enjoyed watching on “The Barefoot Contessa” television show for years. Ruthann’s favorite “talk” is always the floral design feature, which over the years, has provided inspiration combined with how-to demonstrations.

Between the first and second lectures, we love getting out for lunch with friends. It’s just a short stroll to The Southern or Kitchen Notes at The Omni. The Music City Center has a Fresh Market + Cafe, but another casual option is just across the street at Bajo Taco at The Country Music Hall of Fame.

These spots are all on the lower side of Music City Center, which will save you some steps getting back for the second lecture at 2:00pm. This year’s Lifestyle-Design Lecture is with Ajiri Aki on “A Parisian’s Guide to Celebrating the Good Life.”

We’re looking forward to her advice on embracing joy, followed by her book signing.

When we want to visit with friends who prefer a more casual setting, some good bourbon and live music (this year’s band is The Castellows), we come back for Friday evening’s Bourbon Party that is a fan favorite for the younger set. By this point, you will even find that dealers have restyled their booths, moved out sold items and brought in new pieces, providing shoppers with a new selection.

DAY TWO: LECTURES, LIVE MUSIC & GARDEN SHOWCASES (Friday, January 12 + Saturday, January 13) Four lectures are offered each year: two on Friday and two on Saturday. The Lecture Series continues Saturday with a Floral Design Lecture and demonstration at 11:00am from gardener and floral designer Gabriela Salazar, who is coming to the Show from Bravo, Mexico. The Design Panel will follow at 2:00pm, which always provides such a variety of fun interactions between the interview questions peppered with dramatic professional photography and the story behind each designer’s project. Don’t miss the book signings following both Saturday lectures as well!

Not to be overlooked on Saturday is “Music in the Gardens,” starting at 3:30pm, which provides Saturday afternoon shoppers with low-key musical entertainment and the chance to really admire the true beauty of the astounding gardens. Every year local landscape firms bring the outdoors IN with plantings, stonework, trees, potting sheds, arbors, and an assortment of floral creations that are a delight to behold. We are always excited to see what ideas we can take home to our own property. And if we need to revitalize our home with plants or our garden with bulbs, planters, and statuary, the Antiques & Garden Show offers the best of the best in quality selections.

DAY THREE: FINAL PURCHASES (Sunday, January 14) Sunday is for final purchases…going back to that rug dealer or looking once again at that antique piece that we can’t get out of our heads. Sometimes we find that it may have been “the one that got away,” but often we get a smidge of a concession on price because the dealer really would rather not have to load it back on his truck after the Show. Speaking of transportation, the Show makes that part easy with a loading dock and two transport companies who can help you arrange to see that special piece to its rightful spot in your home.

So, bring your friends, your pocketbook, and your eye for inspiration to join in the celebration of the best design in the country right here in your own hometown! You will be proud of our city’s charm and realize that the Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville reveals our deep appreciation for gardens, art, antiques, and refined, delightful design. sl Eric Ross and his wife and business partner, Ruthann, have enjoyed lending their time to the Antiques & Garden Show for the past eight years as the First Look shopping event co-chairs. Eric has more than 25 years of design experience and started his eponymous interior design firm in 2009, working with clients in Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, and beyond. With a background in bespoke furnishings, Eric creates dynamic home interiors that blend comfortable Southern living with timeless style. Eric and Ruthann live in Nashville with their daughter Julianne and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Prince Darby and Dixie. The 34th Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville (Jan. 12–14, 2024) / Music City Center, 201 Rep. John Lewis Way South, Nashville, TN 37203 / (615) 401-1400 / antiquesandgardenshow.com

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SOPHISTICATED SOCIETY

January

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Funny Girl at TPAC’s Andrew Jackson Hall (1/2-1/4 at 7:30pm, 1/5 at 8:00pm, 1/6 at 2:00pm and 8:00pm, 1/7 at 1:00pm and 6:30pm)

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Tom Papa: Good Stuff Tour at TPAC’s James K. Polk Theater at 7:00pm

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Let Freedom Sing, an Annual Concert celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr. at Schermerhorn Symphony Center at 7:30pm Conducted by Dr. Jeffrey L. Ames in works by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, Adolphus Hailstork, Florence Pride, Mary D.Watkins and others Guest artists to include Tenor Rodrick Dixon and poet Wisdom Wright

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Nashville Opera’s LookIn: Florencia En El Amazonas at Noah Liff Opera Center at 6:30pm

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Nashville Symphony’s Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest in Concert at Schermerhorn Symphony Center at 7:30pm

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Opry Goes Dolly at Ryman Auditorium

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The Cher Show at TPAC’s Andrew Jackson Hall (1/19 at 8:00pm, 1/2 at 2:00pm and 8:00pm)

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PENCIL’s Cabaret Night honoring Angie Adams at Music City Center at 6:00pm

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Kristen Chenoweth with The Nashville Symphony at Schermerhorn Symphony Center (1/20 at 7:30pm, 1/21 at 2:00pm)

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Tennessee Art Education Association’s 16th Annual Middle Tennessee Regional Student Art Exhibition at The Parthenon (awards ceremony on 1/25 at 5:30pm)

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Nashville Repertory Theater’s LookIn: Indecent at TMProductions at 6:30pm

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Video Games Live at Schermerhorn Symphony Center conducted by Emmanuel Fratianni at 7:30pm

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Southern/Modern at Frist Art Museum

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Carving a New Tradition:The Art of LaToya M. Hobbs at Frist Art Museum

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Evening of Promise benefiting Blake McMeans Foundation at The Bell Tower at 6:00pm Co-Chairs: Allie Barry, Mimi Beaver and Virginia Voigt

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ECHO Chamber Music Series: Lockeland Strings in The Parthenon at 7:30pm

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Girl From the North Country at TPAC’s Andrew Jackson Hall (1/30-2/1 at 7:30pm, 2/2 at 8:00pm, 2/3 at 2:00pm and 8:00pm, 2/4 at 1:00pm and 6:30pm)

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The Simon and Garfunkel Story at TPAC’s James K. Polk Theater at 7:30pm

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Nashville Repertory Theater’s Indecent at TPAC’s Johnson Theater (2/2 at 7:30pm, 2/3 at 2:00pm and 7:30pm, 2/4 at 2:00pm, 2/8 at 7:30pm, 2/9 at 7:30pm, 2/10 at 2:00pm and 7:30pm, 2/11 at 2:00pm)

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Sparkle for Smiles, A Fundraising Soiree benefiting The Jiselle Lauren Foundation at 14Tenn at 6:00pm

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Lunar New Year with the Nashville Symphony at Schermerhorn Symphony Center at 7:30pm

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Patti LaBelle with The Nashville Symphony at Schermerhorn Symphony Center at 7:30pm

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Nashville Ballet’s Attitude at TPAC’s James K. Polk Theater (2/9-10 at 7:30pm, 2/11 at 2:00pm)

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La Bella Notte benefiting Nashville Opera at The Fisher Center for the Performing Arts at Belmont

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Ruby Gala benefiting The Vanderbilt Comprehensive Care Clinic at Marathon Music Works

Co-Chairs: Julie and John Schneider Co-Chairs: Sean Kelly, MD, Margaret Wailes, and Jeff Jenkins

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Love Big, Shop Small benefiting The Next Door Recovery

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3rd Annual Family Day at Andrew Jackson Hall benefiting TPAC

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Tina:The Tina Turner Musical at TPAC’s Andrew Jackson Hall (2/13-15 at 7:30pm, 2/16 at 8:00pm, 2/17 at 2:00pm and 8:00pm, 2/18 at 1:00pm and 6:30pm)

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Romance at the Symphony: Cinema’s Iconic Love Themes at Schermerhorn Symphony Center at 7:30pm

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Middle Tennessee Heart Gala at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum at 6:00pm, Co-Chairs: Greg Maczko and Ken Marlow

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Faith Family Medical Center’s Neighbor’s Night, featuring songwriter Rivers Rutherford

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Nashville Wine Auction’s Pairings: Nashville’s Ultimate Wine and Food Weekend

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ECHO Chamber Music Series: Ben Sollee in The Parthenon at 7:30pm

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Williamson County Library’s Love Our Libraries with local author J.T. Ellison in conversation with Jeremy Finley at 6:00pm at The Main Library in Franklin (see p. 90)

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Yo Yo Ma at Schermerhorn Symphony Center at 7:30pm

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High Hopes’ Strings and Stories at The Franklin Theatre

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TPAC Prelude Party

March 1

The Duke Ellington Orchestra at Schermerhorn Symphony Center at 7:30pm

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Jagged Little Pill at TPAC’s Jackson Hall (3/1 at 8:00pm, 3/2 at 2:00pm and 8:00pm)

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Monuments and Myths:The America of Sculptors Augustus Saint Gaudens and Daniel Chester French at Frist Art Museum

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Ballet Ball at Schermerhorn Symphony Center at 6:30pm Co-Chairs Evelyn Galletti, Bob Deal and Jason Bradshaw

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AWAKE’s Day on the Hill at Cordell Hall

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Studio Tenn presents Driving Miss Daisy at Studio Tenn’s Turner Theater (various times)

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Mrs. Krishnan’s Party at TPAC’s Johnson Theater (3/7 at 7:30pm, 3/8 at 8:00pm, 3/9 at 2:00pm and 8:00pm)

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West Side Story and Harlem at Schermerhorn Symphony Center at 7:30pm

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Cheekwood in Bloom

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ECHO Chamber Music Series: Alias Chamber Ensemble in The Parthenon at 7:30pm

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Beetlejuice at TPAC’s Andrew Jackson Hall (3/12-14 at 7:30pm, 3/15 at 8:00pm, 3/16 at 2:00pm and 8:00pm, 3/17 at 1:00pm and 6:30pm) slmag.net

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ONCE IN A BLUE MOON

Co-Chaired by Sarah Lodge Tally and Jenny Wray, Once in a Blue Moon, the Land Trust of Tennessee’s major fund raiser, was held at the historic Glen Leven Farm. Guests dressed in farm friendly attire enjoyed cocktails, dinner, live music and smores. The Land Trust of Tennessee is a conservation movement that preserves the unique character of Tennessee’s irreplaceable landscapes for present and future generations of Tennesseans. (October 21)

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SYNERGIZING WELLNESS AND PROSPERITY

NashvilleHealth partnered with Morgan Stanley to hold a series of events and listening sessions focused on improving Nashville’s community health profile. Panel discussions with local healthcare executives, business leaders, and policy experts were held at Nashville’s Soho House. Proceeds from this event will support NashvilleHealth and its mission to advance health equity and create a healthier future for Nashville. (October 25 & 26)

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Once in a Blue Moon 1) Elected Officials 2) Donna Johnson, Barbara Daane 3) Greer Tidwell 4) Trey and Co-Chair Sarah Tally, Co-Chair Jenny Wray and Matt Kaminski 5) Tim Jones & the Wolves 6) George Clements, Tim and Ginny Kelly, Liz and Richard McLaurin 7) Phil Morrissey, Michael Hendrix, Greer and Marian Tidwell, Thomas Woltz Synergizing Wellness and Prosperity 1) Fahad Tahir, CEO Ascension Saint Thomas, Raj Patnaik, Morgan Stanley Wealth Management; Mark Yancy, Nashville Health, Dr. Kim Henderson, Morgan Stanley, Matthew Miller, K&L Gates; Marcus Whitney, Founder and General Partner, Jumpstart Nova 2) Emily Thomas, Morgan Stanley Wealth Management, Dr. Janey Camp, Vanderbilt University, Dr. Kim Henderson, Morgan Stanley, Senator Bill Frist, Laurel Creech, the Nature Conservancy, Mark Yancy, Nashville Health, Raj Patnaik, Morgan Stanley Wealth Manag 3) Rob Loeppke, Charlie Apigian, Belmont Data Collaborative, Brion Lee, Juice Analytics 4) Senator Bill Frist, Emily Thomas, Morgan Stanley Wealth Management, Dr. Janey Camp, Vanderbilt University 5) Senator Bill Frist, Emily Thomas, Morgan Stanley Wealth Management, Dr. Janey Camp, Vanderbilt University, Dr. Kim Henderson, Morgan Stanley, Laurel Creech, The Nature Conservancy 6) Fahad Tahir, CEO Ascension Saint Thomas, Marcus Whitney, Founder and General Partner, Jumpstart Nova 7) Dr. Alex Jahangir, VUMC

Photos Courtesy of Morgan Stanley Private Bank)

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CAUSE FOR PAWS

Photos by Melissa Mahanes

The Nashville Humane Association held its annual fundraiser luncheon, Cause for Paws, at the Belle Meade Country Club. Co-Chaired by Eileen Hart and Haden Cook, the event featured snuggly shelter puppies, a Shoshanna fashion show sponsored by Gus Mayer as well as pop-up shops from Diamond Cellar, The Vault Luxury Resale and Gus Mayer. The Nashville Humane Association provides care and support for more than 4,000 shelter cats and dogs every year. (October 25) 2 1

GOODWILL IMPACT AWARDS

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Hosted by Robin Andrews and Ryan McLaughlin Wood, and emceed by NewsChannel 5 Anchor Rhori Johnston, the 2023 Goodwill Impact Awards was held at Nashville’s Music City Center. The awards ceremony recognizes community partners who help advance Goodwill’s mission of changing lives through education, training, and employment as well as employees and clients who have achieved success through persistence and the power of work. (October 26)

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Cause for Paws 1) AC Graham 2) Co-Chairs Hayden Cook and Eileen Hart 3) NHA Board Chair Chris Hilton 4) Rebecca Russell 5) Dara Russell and Sam Simmons 6) Robin Patton 7) Shoshanna Goodwill Impact Awards 1) Barbara Daane, Sandy Nelson, Lauren Martin 2) Carrington Fox, Kate Ezell, Jamie Capps 3) Bill Schreiber, Goodwill Development VP Beth Alexander 4)Carrie McClaren, Lolly Brown 5) Deena Drummond, Dara Russell, Jennifer Puryear, Julia Ann Hawkins, Kate Satz

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Join us for a fundraising event benefitting the Williamson County Public Library system with special guest

DATE

ISSUED TO

J.T. ELLISON in conversation with Jeremy Finley

Thursday, January 25 Main Library in Franklin 1314 Columbia Ave. | Franklin, TN 37064

5:30

VIP Meet & Greet Tickets: $100

6:00

General Doors Open Tickets: $60

All tickets include heavy hors d'oeuvres, drinks, and a signed book.

About J.T. Ellison J.T. Ellison is a New York Times and USA Today best-selling author and EMMY award-winning co-host of A Word on Words. eventbrite.com/e/love-our-libraries2024-tickets-741722701567

Tickets:

Photos by Jason Bihler

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BRIGHT NIGHT

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The Centennial Park Conservancy held its new fundraising event, Bright Night, at the Parthenon. Bright Night is an artistic and immersive celebration of food, art and fashion. The party was catered by Juniper Green with craft cocktails served up by celebrity mixologist Rob Floyd.

Centennial Park Conservancy is a nonprofit organization that collaborates with Nashville’s Metro Parks to support the Parthenon and Centennial Park. (October 26)

Photos by Peyton Hoge

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CHEEKWOOD 1929 DINNER

The 1929 Club Dinner welcomed special guest Patrick McIntyre, Executive Director of the Tennessee Historical Commission, in conversation with Jane MacLeod after a seated dinner catered by Flavor and designed by Amos Gott.

The 1929 Club supports the endowment of the Cheekwood Mansion and the seven historic acres surrounding it. In 2024, The 1929 Club will enter its 10th year! (November 1) 7

Bright Night 1) Denise Cummins, Neil Krugman, Nancy Peterson Hearn 2) Frannie Corzine, Libby and Ben Page, Brooks Corzine 3) Kyle Young and Sarah Sperling 4) Susan Short Jones and Roland Jones 5) John and Catherine Tuminello 6) Marlene Eskind Moses, Sylvia Rapoport 7) Sandy and Dean Chase Cheekwood 1929 Dinner 1) Barry Stowe, Joan Cheek, David Manning 2) Nancy Peterson Hearn, Anne Russell, Joan Cheek, Kat Delay 3) Lisa and David Manning, Barbara and Rick Turner 4) Cathy and Clay Jackson, Susan and Gene Shanks 5) Kevin and Carla Nelson, Katherine and Pete Delay 6) Sharon Brix McMahan, Karen Morgan, Alberta Doochin 7) Patrick McIntyre, Steve Sirls

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Photos by Melissa Mahanes

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ALL FOR NAHT

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Photos Courtesy of PENCIL

Chaired by Cecile and CJ Gideon, Kate and Grant Jackson, Julie and Will Trapp, and Ashley and Ward Waltemath, the All for NAHT charity auction was held at the chic Prancing Horse of Nashville Ferrari dealership. The even raises funds for the Nashville Anti-Human Trafficking Coalition. Guests enjoyed Italian inspired appetizers and cocktails while exploring Prancing Horse. The Nashville Anti-Human Trafficking Coalition’s mission is to rescue and restore women and children from the bondage of human trafficking and addiction. (November 9)

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PENCIL CABARET KICKOFF

The kickoff of PENCIL’s upcoming Cabaret Night was celebrated with a party at its headquarters. Demeter’s Common provided cocktails and canapes while guests socialized amongst the school supplies of DG PENCIL Box. The event was Co-hosted by Hasina Mohyuddin and Norman Merrifield. PENCIL leverages community resources so that community investment in schools can bridge the resource gaps by which so many schools are challenged and that directly impact day-to-day learning. (November 15)

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All for NAHT 1) Carol Andrews, Lulu Elam 2) Cecile Gideon, Kate Jackson 3) Patricia Jeffrie, Wayne Foreman 4) NAHT Board Chair Jodi Ervin, Anne Lucas 5) Co-Chairs Ashley Waltemath and Julie Trapp 6) Ginger Demonbreun, NAHT Executive Director Mary Trapnell, Abbiesue Webb, Christina Meadows 7) Julie Trapp, Kelly Crockett, Kelley Beaman, Sherry Miller PENCIL Cabaret Kickoff 1) Shabir Bhegani, Ryan Flanagan, Perry Moulds, Chuck Abbott 2) Juan Williams, Hasina Mohyuddin, Brandon Hill 3) Angie Adams and Brittany Adams-Davis 4) Jessie Garcia Knowles, Elizabeth Garza Bumpas 5) Kendrick Robinson, Nicole Keefe 6) Kirsten Dodson and Meredith Jones Long

Photos by Kathy Johnson Photography

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SYMPHONY BALL PATRON PARTY

The Symphony Ball Patron Party was hosted by Michael and Pam Carter, Kevin and Katie Crumbo, and Jim and Laurie Seabury at the Hermitage Hotel. The cocktail party preceding dinner was provided compliments of the Hermitage Hotel in the elegant lobby of the hotel. The hosts collaborated with party planner, Bruce Pittman, to create a wonderful experience for the attendees. (November 30) 6

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1) Co-Chair Suann Davis and Ralph Davis 2) Nashville Symphony CEO and President Alan Valentine, Barbara Bovender 3) Jay Jones, Rob Turner 4) Karyn Frist, Betsy Wills, Anne Russell 5) Kevin and Katie Crumbo, Julie and Frank Boehm 6) Frank and Julie Boehm, Jeff and Melinda Balser, Andre and Doreatha Churchwell 7) Craig and Nichole Huseby, Melissa and Dave Mahanes 8) Sandra Lipman, Janice Elliott Morgan 9) Sharon and Will Cheek 10) Co-Chairs Suann Davis, Kayla Counts 11) Joe and Joanne Sowell, Donnie and Co-Chair Kayla Counts 12) Mark and Nancy Peacock, Janice and David Morgan

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Photos by Kathy Johnson Photography

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SYMPHONY BALL

The 39th Annual Symphony Ball was recently held at Schermerhorn Symphony Center. The event was Co-Chaired by Kayla Counts and Suann Davis with Martha Ingram serving as Honorary Chair. The Symphony gave an inspired performance followed by a wonderful dinner catered by Kristen Winston.

Kix Brooks was honored with this year’s Harmony Award which was followed by a rousing set by Kix. (December 9)

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1) Donnie Counts and Co-Chair Kayla Counts, Co-Chair Suann Davis and Ralph Davis 2) Geary Leathers, Morel Harvey 3) Emily Davis, Max Davis 4) Melissa and Dave Mahanes 5) Jason Bradshaw, Evelyn Galetti, Bob Deal 6) Hillary and Chad Blackburn, Marsha and Chuck Blackburn, Lexi Sestak, Nancy Gregg 7) Dr. Carl Awh, Harmony Award Recipient Kix Brooks, Nashville Symphony Board Chair Mary Cavarra, Nashville Symphony President and CEO Alan Valentine 8) Jennifer Puryear, Nancy Cheadle 9) Kevin and Katie Crumbo 10) Ralph Davis and Co-Chair Suann Davis 11) Nick Willems, Madelyn Bradley, Andrea and Matthew Sinclair 12) Sharon and Todd Sandahl, Kim Hewell and Norm Scarborough

Photos by Melissa Mahanes

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FIFTH THIRD AT THE BLUEBIRD

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Fifth Third Bank hosted a fun and casual event at the Blue Bird Cafe for their core team members, clients, and friends to enjoy Bluebird’s magical atmosphere with a performance by the chart-topping Warner Brothers songwriting duo.

Brad and Brett Warren have written hits for stars such as Tim McGraw, Toby Keith, Keith Urban, Faith Hill, and Martina McBride to name a few. Dave Briggs, 5/3 Regional President, Tennessee welcomed the group gathered to enjoy some music and storytelling. (November 29)

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NUTCRACKER TEA

The inaugural Nutcracker Tea was a sold-out affair Co-Chaired by Allison Cotton, Catherine Grace and Caylan Jarman at Belmont’s Fisher Center. Young attendees had visions of sugarplums as they enjoyed bitesized performances and of The Nutcracker and nibbles dressed in their finest. What a lovely way to spend a December afternoon! (December 3) Fifth Third at the Bluebird 1) Connie White, Diana McAfee 2) Joy Smith, Emily Humphreys, Bradley Pinson, Jonathan Frascarelli 3) Jeff Thieman, Rob Bailey 4) Paul Anderson and Dave Briggs 5) Paul and Jennifer Anderson, Beth and Richard Hussey Nutcracker Tea 1) Co-Chair Caylan Jarman, Nancy Cheadle 2) Co-Chair Allison Cotton, George Cotton 3) Axel and Cheryl Thorne 4) Elizabeth Tipton, Louise Tipton slmag.net 5) Trinity Koch, Co-Chair Catherine Grace, Trinity Grace, Kayla Breedlove 6) Margaret Rick, Grace Jagar, Jane Jagar, Eleanor Ness 7) Nashville Ballet’s Caroline Sutton, Nick Mullikin, Deborah Kehoe

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REDEFINING LUXURY TRAVEL The Luxury Travel Agency Expands to Nashville in Response to the City’s Appetite for Luxury The Luxury Travel Agency, founded by world travelers Dr. Nabeel Alateeqi and Andrew Satkowiak, has expanded from Toronto to Nashville. Dr. Alateeqi, who transitioned from a successful medical career to pursue his passion for travel, and Andrew bring a wealth of global experience to the Southeast. Driven by their desire to offer clients a taste of their personalized journeys and exclusive global connections, The Luxury Travel Agency saw an opportunity to bring luxury experiences to the vibrant Nashville region with a seasoned team of professionals.

From beginning to end, and every detail in between, Andrew and Nabeel offer clients a travel experience that is truly unparalleled. Because of their many connections around the world and their commitment to tailoring trips to client preferences, The Luxury Travel Agency is renowned for securing remarkable hotel upgrades, arranging for any special requirements and crafting curated itineraries and extraordinary adventures for their clients. The Luxury Travel Agency proudly holds exclusive membership with Virtuoso, the premier global network specializing in luxury and experiential travel.

MEET THE EXPERTS Since 2013, The Luxury Travel Agency has been dedicated to curating unique travel experiences for clients across the world. World travelers Dr. Nabeel Alateeqi and Andrew Satkowiak are driven by a passion to impart their expertise and experiences in luxury travel to a diverse range of travelers, including couples, families, small groups, solo adventurers and business travelers.

With their extensive background encompassing visits to more than 90 countries, accommodations in numerous world-class hotels and resorts and a wealth of bucket-list experiences, these travel connoisseurs aspire to simplify the intricacies of trip planning and reignite the joy of journeys. The Luxury Travel Agency aligns with the finest luxury hotel brands, including Four Seasons, St. Regis, Ritz Carlton, Mandarin Oriental, Cheval Blanc, Belmond, Dorchester Collection, Aman, Waldorf Astoria and many more. They specialize in upscale cruise lines, private yachts, exclusive villas, jets and secluded islands.

Whether it's a simple hotel reservation or comprehensive travel planning, from custom guided tours in Asia to safaris in Africa, wine-tasting experiences in Italy, cruises through the Greek Islands or celebrating Mardi Gras in Brazil, The Luxury Travel Agency is your gateway to extraordinary journeys.

THE FIVE BEST PLACES TO TRAVEL IN MAY May is the perfect time for a luxurious escape, with warm temperatures and blooming flowers in many parts of the world. If you’re looking to travel in style, The Luxury Travel Agency can help make your dream a reality. From breathtaking islands to historic cities, read more about the five of the best places to visit in May for a truly luxurious experience at www.theluxurytravelagency.com.

NASHVILLE | TORONTO www.theluxurytravelagency.com 615.955.5525 concierge@theluxurytravelagency.com