BITTNERS
Like a good bourbon that has carefully aged over time, our handmade collector’s edition box is the culmination of more than a century of old world craftsmanship. This unique piece is made from solid American walnut burl with each top meticulously hand-finished with a satin sheen.
The limited-edition boxes are tailor-made by our on-site master craftsmen.
7
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pools for your lifestyle
Using experienced architectural techniques combined with the latest lighting enhancements within a professional pool design, will have you entertaining for family and friends in a resort style living right in your own backyard. Define your lifestyle by allowing us to design and build your very own personal oasis.
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Forty years later, LBMC stands as a testament to this bold vision. From boardrooms to ballparks, from back porch meetings to the back nine, we’re there for our clients – wherever and whenever they need us. Your trust has been the cornerstone of our success. Thank you for being a part of our journey. Let us be a part of your next chapter!
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Custom-built single-family homes in Indian Hills
Poplar Hill Bluff Lots now selling starting at $350,000
Original Highlands Victorian with carriage house 1502 Highland Avenue Offered for $650,000
Cherokee Triangle brick beauty with room to expand 2521 Ransdell Avenue Offered for $750,000
Amid a daily barrage of bad news emanating from natural and political disasters, one must muster herculean strength to flip up a corner of a cloud seemingly lined with lead to glean the proverbial silver lining. Fortunately, I have a 50-pound antidote to the adversity: my bulldog, Victor Hugo. His effusive, enthusiastic response to my return after an absence, regardless of whether it was thirty seconds to three hours, is a dose of dopamine, as is his seemingly insatiable need to always be as close to me as possible, particularly at night when he somehow manages to scooch me to the very edge of my king-sized bed. While it can be annoying and is no doubt the root cause of my sleep deficit, it's one of those bonuses of being an adult and indulging in an activity that was forbidden in childhood (my mother thought having a dog in the bed was "gross").
Is Hugo perfect? Absolutely not! He's needy, stubborn, and prone to random acts of aggression towards small dogs, even after being in the same room for hours, something I attribute to his curmudgeonly "brother" Bentley, a Shihpoo that regularly tested my resolve as a dog person and who I am convinced lived to be 16 just to spite me. Bentley and Sarah Ferguson, my late precocious runt pug, were both immune to the cuteness factor of the wrinkly doughball that is a bulldog puppy and not at all happy about my adding to the pack. Unlike Charles M. Schulz, they did not believe that "Happiness is a warm puppy." When Bentley crossed the rainbow bridge this past summer, it was the first time in over a decade I've only had one dog in the house, a reality I think suits Hugo just fine as he works to supplant my daughter's favored child status.
Whether you are a dog parent, a "cat person" (no political judgment here), or just an animal lover, you won't want to miss the delightful "Dogs & Cats: an Exhibition" at the Headley Whitney Museum (headley-whitney.org). Featuring more than 100 works in total, 25 of which are dog depictions by acclaimed artist Jamie Wyeth (including the one on Lexington's cover), it is a heartwarming look at what our pets mean to us. On display through November 24, consider it a salve for the soul should your preferred candidate not emerge victorious in the election.
Bridget Williams, Editor-In-Chief bridget@slmag.net
SCULPTED CABLE COLLECTION
OLD LOUISVILLE’S LUSTER
Interior Designer Crystal Smith of Bittners helps facilitate the final phase of a dramatic decade-long renovation of a 125-year-old home.
Written by Bridget Williams / Photos by Dan Dry
While walking around the annual St. James Court Art Fair in Old Louisville, you've likely had your attention stolen away from the artsy wares by the beguiling architecture of the neighborhood's stately homes. Comprised of more than 40 city blocks, Old Louisville was the city's original suburb (called the Southern Extension) when it was developed in the late 1800s. Today, its more than one thousand Victorian-era mansions represent the most extensive contiguous collection in the United States and the third-largest Historic Preservation District in the country. As the automobile made new suburbs more favorable, Old Louisville entered a period of decline, with grand estates transformed into boarding houses, cheap apartments, or businesses. Preservation pushes, begun in the 1960s and accelerated in the 1970s, galvanized residents to advocate for a "traditional neighborhood zoning district," restricting the
types of development that can appear in the neighborhood. The residential reclamation continues today with the eclectic and often ornate Queen Anne, Italianate, Richardsonian Romanesque, gothic revival, classical revival, and beaux arts mansions being restored to their heyday.
A decade in the making and arguably one of Old Louisville's most glam glow-ups, a professional couple purchased the circa 1900 home from a neighbor who'd just initiated renovations. The project has proceeded in phases, beginning with unglamorous essentials like plumbing, electrical, masonry work, windows, roofing, and a few unpleasant surprises. "I think I still have PTSD from that time," joked the wife. Next, they tackled the laundry room, bathrooms, kitchen, and carriage house. When it came time for the finishing touches and furnishings, the couple called on interior designer Crystal Smith of Bittners to pull everything together.
Affable and understanding of the inherent challenges when revamping a historic home, Smith's amenable personality quickly established a good rapport with the homeowners. She and the wife became fast friends, which they both promptly cited as a significant upside of the project. The spaces they created aren't too shabby either, refined and elegant, with a calming color palette, layered patterns and textures, and a bevy of Baker Furniture (a favorite of the wife's) that deftly bridges the gap between antique and modern with alluring lines and youthful energy.
A highly personal project, it's fitting that a resorted 1960sera portrait of the wife's mother surmounts a Bittners-made console table just inside the front door. Stairs dressed in a custom starburst-print runner from Anabel's Oriental Rugs lead to the bedrooms and meditation room. A long, narrow hallway links the rooms on the first floor.
In the living room, a pair of large windows overlook clusters of hydrangeas, relying on a newly installed wrought iron fence to support the huge mophead blooms. The geometric lines of another custom rug from Anabel's contradict a sinuous freeform Baker polished Arabescato marble cocktail table. An antique mirror above the mantel reflects the artisanal glass of the Talia chandelier from Visual Comfort and the entryway portrait. The fireplace is flanked by a tall cabinet—given a lacquered finish by the craftspeople at Bittners—on one side and a Thomas Pheasant-designed cabinet from Baker on the other. Schumacher drapery adds a touch of chinoiserie.
Slate blue walls, conducive to candlelight dinners, define the dining room, which is open to the kitchen. Though not an overly grand space, tall ceilings, a dewdrop-shaped mirror from Baker, and built-ins painted in the same color as the walls enhance the feeling of spaciousness.
A comfortable TV room at the rear of the home leads to a covered terrace and the thoughtfully landscaped backyard designed by Hess’ Landscaping. Blooms spill over the edges of window boxes on both floors of the carriage house created by Pohl Iron Works and planted by the husband. While the combination of exposed brick and grasscloth-covered walls may lend an aura of casualness, the wife never misses an opportunity to add a couture touch, evidenced by the Hermès Avalon blanket draped over the back of a leather swivel chair.
Upstairs, both bedroom suites are studies in serenity, with curved lines on the upholstered beds, contemporary art, and subtle Art Deco elements carried over from the first floor. A bubble chandelier provides soft illumination for the primary bedroom, which includes a small antechamber that functions as a reading nook with built-in bookcases. A pinboard cleverly conceals the television in the meditation room, which does
double duty as the wife's art studio. Jim Thompson's "Golden Sunburst" drapery amplifies contemplative dark grey walls.
A pandemic project, the second floor of the carriage house is a chic space to work up a sweat. It shares the floor space with a casual seating area that artfully combines refined and rustic elements. The balustrade is a custom design by Pohl Iron Works. A pair of French Art Deco-style tubular chrome and leather armchairs flank a rustic dimensional sideboard. Overhead is a dramatic midcentury-inspired three-arm chandelier.
Just as precious as the interiors are the homeowners' pair of doll-faced Persian kittens, who seem to appreciate the soft hand of the home's upholstery as much as their humans. These new additions, who happen to marvelously meld with Smith's thoughtful design, have quickly adopted their owners' good taste, gravitating to the Fortuny pillows as their preferred perch. sl
EXQUISITELY TAILORED STAYS
QUEEN FOR A STAY
Sister properties 45 Park Lane and The Dorchester in London's posh Mayfair district bordering Hyde Park provide guests with distinct interpretations of the royal treatment.
Written by Bridget Williams / Images courtesy of The
I will readily admit to being an occasional ardent Anglophile. A storage tub in my attic holds yellowed newspaper clippings from the wedding of Charles & Diana: a testament to the rapture the spectacle inspired in my seven-year-old self. Whimsical wallpaper in my foyer is emblazoned with bowler hats and British flags, and an accent pillow in my living room reimagines a famous portrait of a young Queen Elizabeth in profile from a punk rock perspective. So, imagine my delight when, while strolling The Mall, a tree-lined royal road leading from Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace, a polite bobby asked us to wait for a moment before crossing at a corner. Our compliance was rewarded moments later by a backseat nod from King Charles himself as his car turned down a street in front of us...my idea of a magic kingdom moment!
During this London holiday, I wasn't the only one to have foggy childhood memories rush to the forefront with the suddenness of a pie to the face. After taking the Eurostar from Paris to London and exiting the Tube to see characteristically grey skies, we approached the 10-story building at 45 Park Lane (dorchestercollection.com/london/45-park-lane) in London's
posh Mayfair neighborhood, designed by a team of Modernist champions that included Walter Gropius (founder of the Bauhaus school and architect of the MetLife Building in New York) when my fiancé suddenly remembered walking by this spot on multiple occasions with his family as a child and getting up onto his tippy toes to try and see what was going on behind the curtained streetlevel windows. The intrigue was undoubtedly heightened when he lived in the city during his boarding school years, knowing that the prestigious address was the hippity-hoppity home of the London Playboy Club (1965 until 1982).
In 2011, 45 Park Lane was given an extreme makeover inside and out to become a suitable sibling to its sister, The Dorchester (dorchestercollection.com/london/the-Dorchester), one of London's most iconic hotels since it opened in 1931. While not quite a regular, the late Queen Elizabeth was a long-time fan of The Dorchester, having attended her first charity ball there and using the property for an event to formally announce her engagement to Lieutenant Philip Mountbatten, who later held a "media-friendly" stag night in the hotel's Park Suite before taking the raucous party private at the Belfry Club.
Though both fall under the 5-star Dorchester Collection umbrella, 45 Park Lane and the Dorchester are dissimilar siblings in their aesthetics. However, their shared DNA is evidenced in terms of top-notch service and amenities.
London-based architecture firm Paul Davis + Partners added metallic grille accents to the precast concrete exterior of 45 Park Lane that lend a slightly subtle Art Deco flair, with renowned French architect-designer Thierry Despont (1948-2023) running with the theme for the clubby interiors chock full of an evolving collection of Blue-Chip artworks by contemporary British artists in both public and private spaces. Each of the 45 guest rooms overlooks leafy Hyde Park. The view from our sexy Curzon Balcony Suite, with a whopping 1,100 square feet, a dining area for six, and a separate living room, allowed us to see all the way to Wellington Arch. The sensual interiors were highly detailed, with raised sisal plaid carpet, Tiffany blue velvet paneled walls, oversized floor lamps with shades bound in leather to match an upholstered closet wall, and a cute branded purple rubber duckie to keep you company while soaking in the deep bathtub. The room was also exceptionally quiet without a hint of street noise from Park Lane.
There are two restaurants on the property. Just off the doubleheight lobby is Cut at 45 Park Lane by Wolfgang Puck, the celebrity chef's debut European eatery. We started dinner with our first-ever tasting of British bubbly, a 2019 predominantly pinot Classic Cuvée from Rathfinney Estate in Sussex. Apparently, as we learned from head sommelier Davide Bottoni, climate change is
gradually expanding the possibilities for viticulture in the UK. The Negroni trolley pulled up to our table just in time to steer the table topic to something lighter, including the Italian sommelier's recent road trip along Route 66 with his brother and parents. After careful consideration, I opted for the chestnut-infused variety, a riff that imbued the classic cocktail with a smoother finish.
For the main course, we had the world's red meat literally at our fingertips as our server presented a tray with cuts hailing from the US, the UK, Australia, and Japan. Our perfectly prepared steaks paired wonderfully with a red wine from Judeka, an organic/ biodynamic winery located in the southeastern area of Sicily.
Ascend a flight of stairs to reach Sushi Kanesaka, an exclusive Michelin-starred omakase-inspired experience offered to just nine guests in two evening seatings. Also tucked away above the lobby is intimate Bar 45, sitting alongside The Dorchester's swanky Vesper Bar as the pinnacle of Mayfair hotel bar luxury, offering all the beautiful people sipping unique cocktails from bespoke glasses.
45 Park Lane's spa and wellness center is a subterranean respite from the bustle of the city. The complex's centerpiece is a 20m lap pool dramatically illuminated to highlight the intricate tile mosaic depicting oversized hyacinth. Sprawling and well-equipped, 007 would feel right at home perfecting his physique in the gym's ebonized interiors while his paramour luxuriates in the warmly lit spa, enjoying treatments designed by Dr. Uliana Gout (a respected thought leader in evidence-based aesthetic medicine) with products from ishga that harnesses the power of Scotland's pure seaweed.
As hard as it was to leave the chic confines of our suite at 45 Park Lane, we decamped to The Dorchester for a few nights, with the doorman at the former insisting he transport our bags for the short transfer. I hadn't been to The Dorchester in over a decade, and as soon as I stepped inside, the familiar feeling of an eternal spring washed over me. A pair of omnipresent urns positioned at the start of the Promenade spurred the moment of déjà vu. The vessels' burgeoning blooms are refreshed every three days, so there's never a less-than-perfect petal present.
The Promenade has been the place for high tea and leisurely lunches with Niçoise salad tossed tableside for nearly a century. Glasses clink against the backdrop of a pianist tickling the ivories of a grand piano covered in mirrored mosaic tiles that once belonged to none other than Liberace. Composite columns of black marble with gilded capitals separate mirrored wall panels from which an eclectic art assemblage is displayed. A contemporary collage by Maria Rivans highlighting the piercing gaze of a young Elizabeth
Taylor (who considered the hotel a second home in the 1960s), and an oversized rendition of a Machin stamp depicting a young Queen Elizabeth created by Ann Carrington using more than 1,000 motherof-pearl buttons, overlays youthfulness upon the ornateness, which culminates at a gilded and bespoke Lalique bar crowned by a Baccarat chandelier. The sumptuous setting, formal and fabulous, is perfection for people like me who fully embrace pomp and circumstance.
Determined to age with grace without looking old (a reality this 50-something traveler can relate to), guestrooms on four of the eight floors were under renovation during our stay. Our third-floor room, recently redone, boasted a spring-like palette in shades of green and yellow with a proliferation of patterns that called to mind the bold and beautiful interiors of The Greenbrier.
Befitting a property of its stature, the food and beverage options are plentiful, from the three-Michelin-starred Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester to Cake & Flowers, whose tagline is "Where Beautiful Blooms Meet Outrageously Good Cakes."
We were thrilled to try The Grill by Tom Booton, which, when it opened, made Booton the youngest chef appointed to helm the kitchen in a 5-star hotel (he was 26 at the time). Still baby-faced at 31, Booton invited us into the kitchen following our meal, where his staff was putting the final touches on preparations for an event at Royal Ascot the following day. The Colchester native is clearly confident without being cocky, citing a work-hard ethic instilled by his parents and an understanding of the need for time outside of the kitchen as the bedrock of his success in what can be a grueling industry.
Bypassing formal training for time in renowned kitchens starting at the tender age of 15, Booton's menu at The Grill is, in his words, "simply plated, precise plates of food using beautiful ingredients." Booton was also given authority to refashion The Grill's interiors, and even the playlist, to reflect his upscale British grill classic fare and comfort dishes. If you can't get there for dinner, don't miss one of Booton's favorite dishes—the truffled egg soldiers—at breakfast.
Just beyond the hotel's landscaped forecourt, in which stands The Dorchester Sphere , a bronze sculpture by Jill Berelowitz commissioned to celebrate her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee, is the English capital's affluent Mayfair district, offering ample world-renowned shopping, theater, entertainment and tourist attractions. If you're feeling inspired by all The Dorchester and 45 Park Lane art, head to the National Gallery (nationalgallery.org.uk), where Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers is on display through January 19th.
The Victoria & Albert Museum (vam.ac.uk) is hosting F ragile Beauty: Photographs from the Sir Elton John and David Furnish Collection through January 5th and NAOMI IN FASHION, an exhibition exploring the career of fashion model Naomi Campbell through April 6th. For the ultimate art-lovers experience, book a bespoke walking tour with a chauffeurdriven car through the concierge at 45 Park Lane. The royal treatment, indeed. sl
Compiled by Bridget Williams
ARMOR AMOUR
A modern form of armor, the talisman tendencies of these pieces serve as a contemporary way to protect and empower ourselves through fine jewelry.
This page, clockwise from top left: In Louis we trust. Louis Vuitton Les Gastons small tag pendant in yellow gold and titanium ($3,600; us.louisvuitton.com). Heavenly Vices Charming Miniatures luck rondelles ($1,500; heavenlyvicesfinejewelry.com). Walters Faith Dora large clover charm ($4,950). Available through Ylang Ylang in St. Louis and waltersfaith.com. Anita Ko pavé diamond Baby Whistle pendant with marquis diamond ($8,825; anitako.com) Guita M treated opal bead necklace with detachable pendant ($3,250; guitam-jewelry.com) Jacquie Aiche enamel eye and diamond dome ring ($6,875; jacquieaiche.com) Marie Lichtenberg “Tutto Passa” (Everything Passes) bracelet ($24,460). Available through Diamond Cellar in Nashville and marielichtenberg.com. Hargreaves Stockholm Nomad “book” can be worn as a bracelet or folded to wear as a pendant (hargreavesstockholm.com) A reminder that anything is possible…Retrouvai Pig Fantasy signet ring ($3,980; retrouvai.com) Buddha Mama huggie earrings. The company donates proceeds from the sale of their 20k gold pieces to Tibet House and Kristi House, a non-profit center that provides the needs of child victims of sexual abuse and sex trafficking (buddhamama.com). From Lisa Dahlen, this ancient Roman denarius (90 BC) features a depiction of a rotund Pegasus. Bacchus, the god of wine, is featured on the reverse ($4,320; lisadahlen. com) Protect pendant from Jane Win Jewelry. The snake symbolizes wisdom, power and healing.($928; janewin.com) A tree is a universal symbol of strength and growth. Tanya Farah tree of life bracelet (tanyafarah.com) Capolavoro personalized Love Lock bracelet ($25,500). Available through Clarkson Jewelers in St. Louis and capolavoro.com. Opposite page, clockwise from top left: Scapular necklaces from Marie Lichtenberg (from $3,440). Available through Diamond Cellar in Nashville and marielichtenberg.com.
AS SOOTHING AS SWEET TEA AND SUNSHINE
The all-inclusive Windy Hill Farm & Preserve in rural East Tennessee is an ideal place to explore and unwind.
Written by Bridget Williams / Images courtesy of Windy Hill Farm & Preserve
Nearly a quarter-century ago, Knoxvillian George Sampson fulfilled a long-held dream by acquiring 650 acres nestled into a horseshoe bend of the Tennessee River near Tellico Lake in Loudon and named it Windy Hill Farm for the near-constant breeze that rustles the treetops of a hill crowned by a water tower. Initially used as a working cattle farm, the property began a transition towards sustainability in 2014 when Sampson's grandson, Steven Brewington, a newly minted UT graduate who'd spent many childhood summers on the land, spearheaded a new round of investment aimed at operating the property in a more environmentally friendly fashion.
Over four years, as they sold off the herd, pasture was converted to dense native warm-season grasslands interspersed with fields of millet, oats, and sorghum (kinds of food quail find particularly tasty) to create an upland preserve. The restoration project led to a rebound of the area's endangered Northern Bobwhite quails, and the property became one of the few in the
South specializing in quail hunts. Because hunters, who are led on tailored, guided hunts, harvest birds regularly from October to March at Windy Hill Farm & Preserve, it's necessary to supplement the wild populations with pen-raised quail, a common practice at quail hunting lodges across the South. Windy Hill welcomes canine companions in several dedicated pet-friendly rooms, so you can bring your own four-legged bird finder or die-hard lap dog. Curious about quail hunting but have never tried it? Windy Hill has hosts of experienced guides and can even equip you with a shotgun and ammo.
Evidence that the ideas of capitalism and conservation can be complementary, Brewington gradually transformed the property into a boutique all-inclusive resort with luxury accommodations, an upscale restaurant, and a host of build-your-own-adventure activities on land and water that cater not only to wing shooters during hunting season (fall and winter) but also to those interested in just enjoying the respite offered by a few days in the great outdoors.
Seating adjacent to the Wilder terrace
The property includes more than two miles of shoreline along the Tennessee River with a dock to launch kayaks and paddleboards.
An easy four-hour drive from my home in Louisville, I could feel my blood pressure lower as soon as we turned onto the twisty rural roads in a region frequently referred to as the "Lakeway to the Smokies." The Watchhouse, perched atop a ridge with views spanning fields, woodlands, and the foothills of the Smokies, is the property's hub of activity. The main level hosts the reception desk, a small shop, and a vaulted living area with a balcony overlooking the lower-level terrace of Wilder Restaurant, where guests enjoy three included meals daily. As soon as we began to unload our bags, I was immediately reminded of why I love traveling in the South: everyone seems to have an innate sense of hospitality.
Lodging is spread among nine individual Water Tower Cabins grouped around a communal fire pit, the hotel-style eight-room Lodge, or the five-bedroom Farmhouse. The layout of each cabin is identical, with a vaulted ceiling accentuated by rough-hewn beams and a wall of glass along the backside (my favorite feature) that frames the pastoral and river views. One morning, I opened the
drapes and was surprised to find a rafter of wild turkeys checking out their reflections. With a pair of comfy chairs centered in front of the pane, it would be the perfect place to spend a day catching up on all that reading you keep promising yourself you'll do. The "quiet" interiors were outfitted in colors reflective of the landscape—I could imagine the paint chips with names like "baled hay," "morning mist," and "field grass." The cloud-like bed was dressed in velvety soft sheets, and the bath towels were oversized and plush, all luxurious little things that evidence attentive ownership.
Each guest is given a golf cart to explore the property, although we did most of ours on foot, hiking all five miles of designated hiking trails. Guests can purchase a pass with unlimited access to standard activities, including biking, beekeeping and honey tasting, forest bathing, kayaking and paddleboarding, garden tours, stretching and mobility classes, archery, and axe throwing. The fabulous Cindy Jones led our chosen activities—forest bathing and five-stand sporting clays. I chose the former on a lark, assuming that my fiancé
and I would be unable to stay silent or present for the duration of the mindfulness trek. Still, thanks to Cindy's guidance, we quite enjoyed the ecotherapy excursion, which ended with sharing a pot of tea while a 45 played softly in the background in the cutest activities cabin. After talking with Cindy about everything on offer, I do regret not opting for the wine hike and beekeeping, the latter of which Cindy is particularly passionate about.
Meals at Wilder restaurant were an absolute delight. Affable Executive Chef Ben Warwick is a Knoxville native who has been at the property from its beginnings as a luxury resort. His kitchen, supported by a sizeable on-site garden, turns out wellproportioned plates full of interesting ingredients handled with a light touch and infused with global influence. "We have a lot of activities on site, so I never want guests to leave the table feeling like they need to take a nap," he remarked.
At dinner, we sampled rabbit, lamb, and quail and were surprised to find a few of our favorite Oregon pinots on the
interesting wine list. Service was sweet and sincere, and we enjoyed the authentic interactions. During a quiet period at lunch, we presented a couple of culinary challenges, which Warwick happily accepted and excelled. Our visit coincided with Windy Hill's regular Friday summer concert series on the Wilder patio and under the branches of a majestic tree someone fittingly described as the "Jerry Bruckheimer tree." Wilder is open to the public, and the patio was packed with locals enjoying a special concert menu that included one of the best burgers I've had in recent memory. Larger concerts are staged on Windy Hill's Granary Stage.
Even though I had more than my fill at dinner, I looked forward to returning to our cabin each evening, knowing the firepit would be ablaze and s'mores kits at the ready. It was a sweet finish to our sleepaway camp for grownups experience. sl
Windy Hill Farm & Preserve is open for reservations Thursday through Sunday. Rates start at $475/night for a lodge room and $700/night for a cabin, including daily meals for up to two people (windyhillfarmtn.com).
Compiled by Bridget Williams
DROP IT LIKE IT’S HOT
When it comes to earrings, a dangle can be a drop, but a drop cannot be a dangle. Whether you prefer the subtlety of a stationary drop earring or the swinging drama of a dangle, we’ve rounded up something for everyone.
Annette Ferdinandsen Arrowhead Cobaltoan Calcite drop earrings ($1,540; brokenenglishjewelry.com). Bondeye Jewelry Highlight earrings ($2,395; bondeyejewelry.com). David Yurman petite pavé heart drop earrings ($1,650). Available through Moyer Fine Jewelers and Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, Davis Jewelers in Louisville and davidyurman.com. Picchiotti diamond and emerald chandelier earrings ($72,500). Available through Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis, Clarkson Jewelers in St. Louis and picchiotti.it/en. Chris Ploof Damascus dangle earrings (chrisploof.com). ITA Jewelry Sempiterno dangler earrings ($2,700; itajewelry.com). Jonne Amaya Baby emerald dangle earrings ($570; jonneamaya.com). Kavant & Sharart Twist Kaleidoscope double disc earrings ($9,250; kavantandsharart.com). LAGOS Studio Prasiolite Ball Drop Earrings ($6,500). Inquire about availability through Richter & Phillips Jewelers in Cincinnati, Moyer Fine Jewelers and Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, Diamond Cellar in Nashville and lagos.com. Marco Bicego Lunaria drop earrings with aquamarine ($1,600). Available through Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, Davis Jewelers in Louisville, Clarkson Jewelers and Simons Jewelers in St. Louis, and us.marcobicego.com. LÖF The XL Marionettes earrings ($11,600; lofjewellery.com). Albarré Jewelry garnet earrings ($3,900; albarre.com). Mikimoto Morning Dew Black South Sea Cultured Pearl Earrings ($7,600). Available through Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, Diamond Cellar in Nashville, and Clarkson Jewelers in St. Louis. Tejen Rock Sugar stick earrings ($12,200; tejen-collection.com). Ritique emerald and diamond line drop earrings ($9,290; ritique.com). Seaman Schepps Canton drop earrings in jade and ruby ($5,450; seamanschepps.com). Suzanne Kalan bespoke earrings (suzannekalan.com). Terzihan Epoca Gaia Index earring ($4,185; terzihan.com). Opposite page: KINRADEN IONIC MPINGO statement earring ($1,610; kinraden.com)
ASTON MARTIN
ROAD SCHOLAR
What's new and notable in the motoring world
Compiled by Matthew Cottrell
Vanquish, Aston Martin's V12 flagship sports car (MSRP from $430,000), was unveiled to great fanfare on a Venetian lagoon amidst the starlit backdrop of the Venice International Film Festival. Vanquish will be Aston Martin's highest-performance sports car in its core product line-up and its most exclusive, with production limited to no more than 1,000 examples annually. Unique in this portfolio, Vanquish is the sole model to feature a bespoke, Aston Martin-developed 12-cylinder engine. Revived for the first time since 2018, this will be the third Aston Martin generation christened with the vaunted Vanquish nameplate.
AUDI
In September, Audi of America announced an extensive refresh for the 2025 Audi A3 and S3 sedans, with all models arriving with standard quattro® all-wheel drive paired to 7-speed S tronic transmissions, increased power, chassis upgrades, and the addition of advanced torque-vectoring rear-axle technology from RS 3. The new interior inlays accent upgraded interior materials and
technology, with the 10.25" digital instrument cluster now standard. Wireless phone charging pad and door panel lighting options are now available, along with the Audi App Store upgrades that permit popular apps to be loaded directly into Audi's MMI. A top-view camera will also become available during the 2025 model year.
BMW
The very first BMW X5 was driven off the BMW Group Plant Spartanburg line in South Carolina on September 1, 1999. Since then, nearly 3 million X5s have been assembled there, destined for markets worldwide. The company is marking a quartercentury of creating the Sports Activity Vehicle Category with a limited-edition BMW X5 Silver Anniversary Edition (MSRP $79,900). Lime Rock Grey metallic paint, 20-inch M Star-spoke wheels, extended Shadowline trim, carbon fiber interior trim, and Silver Anniversary Edition badging distinguish the X5 Silver Anniversary Edition. The Standard xOffroad Package includes 2-axle air suspension, underbody protection plates, and four drive modes calibrated for various terrains.
BENTLEY
In September, Bentley launched the fourth-generation Flying Spur (MSRP from $280,000-estimated), the most powerful Bentley sedan ever. Built around Bentley's new "Ultra Performance Hybrid" powertrain, the true four-door supercar is capable of silent progress in pure EV mode for up to 47 miles or when more spirited driving is warranted, calling on the Bentley V8 to pass the 0-60 mph benchmark in just 3.3 seconds–half a second quicker than its predecessor. Inside the spacious cabin is an all-new seat design that features 3D diamond quilting. New driver instrumentation graphics complete the package of design enhancements, while the acclaimed Bentley Rotating Display with its choice of 12.3" high-definition display, three analog dials, or an unbroken side of handcrafted veneer is as an option.
LAND ROVER
Unveiled at Range Rover House during Monterey Motoring week in August, the 2024 Range Rover SV Carmel Edition (MSRP $370,000) is an ultra-exclusive model curated by SV Bespoke, showcasing the pinnacle of Range Rover brand's luxury bespoke personalization service. Inspired by the lush greenery and ocean cliffs surrounding Carmel, California, the special edition features
a bespoke Satin Green exterior, complementing a Sequoia Green and Perlino leather interior. A 606hp V8 Twin Turbo engine powers each vehicle. Buyers will receive Titleist Professional club fitting experience for two at Titleist's Performance Institute in Oceanside, California, or Acushnet, Massachusetts, and two custom sets of clubs (putter through driver). The Del Monte Forest Conservancy will receive a portion of the proceeds from each sale.
MASERATI
Maserati's new super sports car, the GT2 Stradale (MSRP from $243,000 – estimated), made its world premiere at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, during 2024 Monterey Car Week, flanked on the display stage by the MC20 Icona, making its North American debut, and MCXtrema. The GT2 Stradale, the roadlegal version of Maserati's GT2 race car, shares the same Nettuno twin-turbocharged V-6 as the MC20 (but weighs 132 pounds less), with performance amped up to 631 horsepower and a top speed of 210 mph. According to the company, the Stradale zips from zero to 62 mph in just 2.8 seconds. At the launch, David Grasso, Maserati CEO, said, "The Maserati GT2 Stradale is a product that can fulfill the requirements of the most discerning enthusiasts, a new creation that expresses the brand's entire essence."
McLAREN
The 2025 model year specification of McLaren's 750S offers enhanced optional specifications and new levels of colorful visual personalization, including 12 new pre-configured themes for the MSO Contrast Pack created by McLaren Special Operations (MSO). For 2025 model year cars, the Stop/Start button on the 750S changes to Papaya orange, McLaren Racing's traditional color. It was first seen in the M6A Can-Am racer in 1967 and adopted by the McLaren Formula 1 team during the 1968 championship.
MERCEDES
Mercedes-Maybach continued its series of special editions with the world premiere of the new Mercedes-Maybach S 680 Edition Nordic Glow (MSRP $339,000) at Pebble Beach. The MANUFAKTUR individualization program is crafting the exclusive model solely for the U.S. market and is strictly limited to 50 units. Inspired by the aurora borealis and the Arctic Circle, the unique exterior features a custom two-tone Northern Lights Violet Metallic / Moonlight White Metallic paint finish. The cabin features hand-stitched MANUFAKTUR Rose Grey Exclusive Nappa leather with intricate Amethyst Grey contrast stitching. There are high-pile trunk and floor mats with an embroidered Mercedes-Maybach logo and Rose
Grey Nappa leather piping. An "Edition Nordic Glow 1 of 50" badge adorns the center console. Among the extensive features are a refrigerator for rear seat passengers and Maybach champagne flutes.
PORSCHE
The Porsche 911 Turbo (Type 930) redefined what was possible when it debuted in 1974. It brought turbocharging technology –which Porsche initially used in race cars such as the 917/10 and 917/30 – to the roadgoing 911, a unique design, and a nearly unparalleled level of daily usability for a sports car. Porsche is commemorating the 50th anniversary of the 911 Turbo with an exclusive special edition of the sports car icon based on the current 2025 911 Turbo S. The interior and exterior of the "911 Turbo 50 Years" adopts design touches from historic 911 Turbo models, with an optional Heritage Design Package further enriching the throwback look. For the first time on a 911, the anniversary model is adorned with Turbonite, a color exclusive to Porsche Turbo models. At the 1973 International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, Porsche presented the 911 RSR Turbo concept with seat centers and side bolsters in Black Watch tartan. In the anniversary model, "MacKenzie" tartan upholstery graces the same areas. sl
OMGG
Arm Candy
Longines Mini Dolcevita ($3,900). Available through Richter & Phillips Jewelers in Cincinnati, Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis, Davis Jewelers in Louisville and longines.com.
Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona, 40mm, white gold and diamonds ($73,000). Available through Richters & Phillips Jewelers in Cincinnati, ReisNichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, Davis Jewelers in Louisville, Diamond Cellar in Nashville, Simons and Clarkson Jewelers in St. Louis, and rolex.com.
One-of-a-kind straw marquetry jewelry box by Lison de Caunes. Price upon request (lisondecaunes.com/en)
Vietri “Poppy” Siciclian terra cotta head ($860; vietri.com)
A trio of mirror-polished stainless steel and leather catchalls from the French craft concept store Empreintes ($1,962; empreintes-paris.com)
Assael Angel Skin coral and diamond bow ring (price upon request). Available through Diamond Cellar in Nashville and assael.com.
Marco Bicego PETALI 18K Y statement Necklace with Diamonds ($77,650.00). Available through Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, Davis Jewelers in Louisville, Diamond Cellar in Nashville, Simons Jewelers and Clarkson Jewelers in St. Louis, and us.marcobicego.com.
Vaunted Vessels Bling's the Thing
The new Racing Sport Diamond Ultra is the world’s most expensive Apple Watch case ($20,000). The case features 5.6 carats of VVC diamonds, 1068 in total, with each stone set by hand. Limited to 10 pieces worldwide (goldenconcept.com)
Mercedes-Maybach has released a collection of six unisex fragrances in collaboration with INCC Parfums. The sides of the vessels, which can rest on an elegant wooden base, are finished with polished aluminium, on which the Maybach logo and the name of the fragrance are engraved ($395/each; maybach-luxury.com)
MCM Limited Edition Parfum with hand-applied Swarovski® crystals ($1,800; mcmworldwide.com)
Scentsational
Luxe Leisure
For the cinephile, the Pillow Cinema Armchair by Poltrona Frau offers unparalleled relaxation with its fully adjustable headrest, backrest, and footrest. Upholstered in luxurious Pelle Frau® leather his chair features a cooling/heating drink holder, wireless charging, and USB-A ports (poltronafrau.com/us/en).
Minimalist style with maximum listening options.
The Tivoli Audio Music System Home (Gen. 2) merges Hi-Fi streaming capabilities with smart home conveniences. Tivoli Audio's analog past has inspired simple hands-on controls, such as the tuning dial and volume/source knobs. However, it offers a full-function remote control or, when streaming, control audio via your smart device ($750; tivoliaudio.com)
Named “Motoryacht of the Year” by the Robb Report, the A96 BY ARCADIA YACHTS is a 30-metre crossover yacht with five cabins that blurs the lines between sea and sky. Interior spaces are decorated with natural, eco-friendly materials, the design embraces soft lines and furnishings with a pleasing handfeel, and the sleek curves and dark lacquered surfaces conjure up an Art Deco mood (base price from $11m; arcadiayachts.it/en/yachts/a96-overview-en)
Next best thing: Exclusive Yachts is a membership club that aims to eliminate the challenges of owning and operating a luxury watercraft while delivering personalized yachting experiences. Memberships from $40,000 initiation and $70,000 annual fee (exclusiveyachts.club)
For ladies who lounge in luxury: cashmere knit trousers from Brunello Cucinelli, often referred to as “The King of Cashmere” ($4,995; shop. brunellocucinelli.com)
UK home fashion label Buster + Punch have teamed up for a capsule collection that unifies the best of both brands. The Cocotte is available in two sizes: 24cm ($349.99) and 28cm ($439.99; thestaub.com)
Gourmandise
x Stéphane
Parmentier Collection leatherbounded Nespresso machine ($5,200; artemest.com)
Chess Set from Alexandra
is made in England with a flocking-lined Tiger Oak veneer box with signature fastenings. Set includes 32 Staunton-style wood chess pieces in Verdigris green and golden yellow lacquer and 24 semi-precious malachite and motherof-pearl draughts playing pieces ($11,890; alexandrallewellyn.com).
Released just once a year in limited quantities, Château DucruBeaucaillou's Celebration Collection brings together the equivalent of 100 bottles of wine including 21 bottles of the Maison’s estate wine, DucruBeaucaillou with less than 33 units produced per year ($28,000 - $35,000). For purchase information contact Accueil@ducru-beaucaillou.com.
Penfolds new Cuvée Brut Champagne, a combination of pinot noir, pinot meunier and chardonnay, is made in partnership with Champagne Thiénot and presented in a vibrant gift box painted in the signature Penfolds red ($275)
The Antero from Monday Motorbikes is a capable mountain bike designed with full suspension and a center mono shock. The design is intended to keep the wheels on the trail and the rider in control ($3,099, mondaymotorbikes.com)
From The Little Car Company, the Ferrari Testa Rossa J is a 75% scale reproduction of the Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa – developed and built from the original drawings kept in Ferrari Classiche. Limited to 299 examples, this battery-powered mini marvel boasts four driving modes, and a top speed of 50mph. (From $100,000; hedleystudios.com)
Louis Vuitton golf bag ($22,600). Available at select Louis Vuitton stores, 866.VUITTON, and louisvuitton.com
With shops in Mayfair and Chelsea, Peter Harrington Rare Books is one of the leading rare book dealers in the world and the largest antiquarian book dealer in Europe, stocking hundreds of first editions from some of the most famous literary works (peterharrington.co.uk)
Allegorie Black Gala Cruiser is crafted from natural apple peel and plant-based materials ($575; allegoriedesign.com)
Taschen’s GOAT. Champ’s Edition ($15,000), Limited Champ’s Edition (No. 1–1,000), signed by Muhammad Ali and Jeff Koons, with four gelatin silver prints and the Jeff Koons sculpture Radial Champs (taschen.com)
HISTORY, HERITAGE, AND HOSPITALITY
For 300 years, the prestigious Bordeaux Maison Château Ducru-Beaucaillou has prided itself on welcoming friends and family for an unforgettable experience in Saint Julien.
Written by Bridget Williams
Everything in this house is a memory.
Amidst a vast estate of more than 250 acres in the vineyards in the Saint-Julien appellation in the Médoc region, where soils comprised of gravel, marl, and pebbles have produced wines of grace and elegances from before the Napoleonic classification of 1855, sits the jewel of the Ducru-Beaucaillou estate: an impressive building in the Directoire style.
Commissioned by Bertrand Ducru in the 1820s, Parisian architect Paul Abadie's creation boasts a raised ground floor that gracefully follows the natural level of the land, gently sloping towards the banks of the estuary, on which the heavy traffic in the 19th century offered the spectacle of a navy constantly on the move. Two Victorian-era towers, designed by Michel-Louis Garros, winner of the Grand Prix d'Architecture in 1887, impart a majestic configuration upon the original structure.
Surrounding the château is a twelve-acre park conceived by landscape architect Eugène Bühler, a disciple of Michel-Louis Garros. Century-old trees, flower beds, winding paths, a pond, a vegetable garden surrounded by rubble walls and planted with trellised pear trees, and a beautiful wrought-iron greenhouse define the parklands. Statues of Diana, Bacchus, and Demeter are spread among a trio of terraces, positioned so that their faces bask in the sunlight that nourishes the vineyards.
Since 2003, Bruno-Eugène Borie, whose father Jean-Eugène spearheaded a modernization of the property that catapulted Ducru-Beaucaillou's reputation to the highest level in Bordeaux, continues a legacy that traces back to the Age of Enlightenment.
The genesis of that intellectual movement is alive and well in Bruno-Eugène, a man of insatiable curiosity and a diverse roster of interests. He introduced sustainable viticulture to the vineyard and contemporary art and design into the chateaux.
Keith Haring, Carl André, Christian Boltanski, Annette Messager, Claude Viallat, Jean-Pierre Raynaud, and Jean-Marc Bustamante are among the roster of artists warmly welcomed to Ducru-Beaucaillou. "My passion for contemporary art, cultivated during visits to the CAPC in Bordeaux, has greatly influenced Ducru's identity," said Bruno-Eugène, adding that one of his favorite recent collaborations was with Alain Ellouz, who created a stunning alabaster stone light that holds a double magnum of 1982 Ducru. "Art challenges us, much like winemaking, to push boundaries while honoring tradition," explained Bruno-Eugène. He asked Jade Jagger to create the "La Croix Ducru-Beaucaillou label," and he selected famous Parisian decorator and founder of Maison Sarah, Sarah Poniatowska–a descendant of the admired monarch, Stanislas II of Poland–to lead a refreshment of the château's interiors in advance of the estate's 300th anniversary, resulting in a harmonious marriage of classicism and modernity.
Not only is France the world leader in wine production, but wine has also always been an essential part of the French "savoir vivre" culture, translating into an effortless ability to live with elegance. In 2010, the 'gastronomic meal of the French' was inscribed by UNESCO on its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. At Ducru-Beaucaillou, when you step inside the château's kitchen, you glean that the
rituals of the table are heavy with memory, meaning, and mood. Bruno-Eugène remarks that he cooks because he can't forget. As he tends a simmering pot-au-feu concocted with vegetables from the garden, he feels the watchful eye of his grandmother. He feels at home in the kitchen and relishes interpreting the local gastronomy without pretense. Rivaling Bruno-Eugène's gastronomic fervor is his wife Frédérique's affinity for floral design and tablescapes, which result in grand seasonal displays in the formal dining room. The grandeur of the estate is tempered by the graciousness of Bruno-Eugène and Frédérique, who are hands-on hosts in their home.
A proud steward of its Second Growth (Deuxième Cru) status from the 1855 Classification of Bordeaux (one of 15), Ducru-Beaucaillou's reasoned approach to viticulture is grounded in heritage and refined through science. Bruno-Eugène regards nature as a "subject of law." Therefore, every procedure in the vineyard respects the entire ecosystem and is innovative and precise in its execution. For instance, the vineyard employs mechanical weeding, judicious grass cover, manure, and quality composts to eliminate herbicide and chemical fertilizer use. "Sustainability is not a new concept; it has been an obsession for vignerons for centuries," said Bruno-Eugène. "At Ducru, it's a mission embedded in every practice, every vintage, and every project we undertake."
We had the opportunity to ask Bruno-Eugène a few questions about the French art and legacy of hospitality in general and his approach in particular.
SL: How would you characterize the French philosophy of entertaining? B-E: In France, each province and city has its own social customs. Bordeaux is steeped in English culture (300 years) and cosmopolitan influences due to international trade. The city has long been animated by foreign merchants, with trading posts from the Hanseatic League (Bremen, Lübeck, etc.), Scandinavians, the Irish, and even Spanish and Portuguese.
As a result, Bordeaux's philosophy of entertaining is deeply rooted in the art of sharing and savoring life's pleasures. It's not just about the food or the wine—it's about creating a warm, welcoming environment where conversation flows as naturally as the wine. Meals are enjoyed at a leisurely pace, giving time for flavors, stories, and company to be fully appreciated.
In Médoc culture, every meal is a celebration, with meticulous attention to detail, from the choice of wine to the presentation of dishes. At Ducru-Beaucaillou, our family-owned estate embodies this philosophy. We believe that every gathering is an opportunity to share not just a meal but the rich stories behind our wines. Our diverse selection of vintages reflects our commitment to showcasing the evolution of our wines over time. Each wine tells a chapter in the story of our estate, contributing to an experience that is both refined and deeply personal.
Every event at Ducru-Beaucaillou is an invitation to explore these stories, savor the nuances of our wines, and enjoy a tradition of hospitality that values both the small details and the lasting impact of genuine connection. We are open to serving the most exclusive champagnes, white wines, and more.
SL: What is your earliest memory of cooking/entertaining?
B-E: One of my earliest memories of cooking comes from the harvest feasts at Ducru-Beaucaillou when I was a child. Helmut Seidel, a former WWII prisoner who decided to settle here with his family, became our estate chef, cooking for over 200 people twice a day during harvest time. The smell of hearty dishes like pot-aufeu, poule au pot, or bœuf en daube au vin de Médoc simmering in giant cauldrons is something I'll never forget. Those moments gave me a deep appreciation for how food brings people together.
I also fondly remember the grand formal dinners my parents occasionally hosted for important foreign visitors in the château's grand dining room. These elegant black-tie affairs were filled with exquisite table linens and Limoges porcelain—my father invested in the renowned Haviland porcelain factory—alongside rare silverware and glassware. Every detail was a testament to their love of beauty and tradition.
The dishes were classic staples of haute bourgeoisie cuisine: fresh white asparagus with mousseline sauce, fresh salmon from the estuary grilled and served with béarnaise sauce, tender Pauillac milk-fed lamb with homemade pommes dauphine, veal Orloff, a generous cheese platter, and for dessert, either an ice bombe or peach Melba.
My father meticulously selected and prepared the wines, ensuring perfect pairings. The champagne was often Krug, whites from Domaine de Chevalier or Bonneau du Martray, and reds from our own estates (Ducru-Beaucaillou, Grand-Puy-Lacoste, and Haut-Batailley), elevating each course into a celebration of taste.
Growing up on the estate, I developed a close relationship with the vineyard, sensing its rhythms and feeling the impact of nature. Playing among the vines, I developed a fusional relationship with the land. Like our vignerons, I could feel the vineyard's rhythms when the east wind, the September sun, and the cool
nights ripened the Cabernet Sauvignons, when too much rain would fall, or when the vines would bud. This connection to the land has shaped my approach to hosting and winemaking alike.
SL: Do you prefer large or small gatherings?
B-E: I appreciate both.
Small gatherings allow for personal conversations and a more intimate atmosphere, while larger celebrations reflect the grandeur of the moment.
At Ducru, we host both types of gatherings. Smaller events are perfect for honoring our 300-year legacy, creating meaningful connections with guests, and ensuring they experience the depth of our history and hospitality.
We also love grand celebrations, like the Médoc Food Festival at Beaucaillou, which we host annually for 500 guests. A gargantuan menu and a fine selection of wines—a perfect moment to explore the estate and experience the art of living at Ducru-Beaucaillou.
SL: Describe your perfect dinner party.
B-E: My ideal dinner party would be at Ducru-Beaucaillou, in our beautifully restored Great dining room. It would be a mix of friends, colleagues, and wine lovers from around the globe with great wine and seasonal dishes. Conversation would flow, but there would also be quiet moments to take in the surroundings—the vineyard, the château, and the company.
Recently, we hosted an extraordinary Michel Guérard dinner executed by his Chef, Stéphane Mak, which was pure enchantment. We reviewed Michel's iconic creations. Every dish was a masterpiece, the balance of each dish and the flavors were nothing short of sublime. We served our finest wines, including vintages from 1961 and 1955. It was a perfect evening.
SL: Do you have a signature dish?
B-E: I have many dishes I enjoy cooking, but my signature dish is Canard du Médoc en deux façons: thighs in a civet stew and breasts roasted with root vegetables. This traditional Gascon preparation is close to my heart and reflects my love for French cuisine and attention to detail. I'm happy to share the recipe with you:
Recipe for Canard Rôti en deux façons
The Day Before CIVET
1. Take two farm-raised ducks.
2. Remove the thighs (legs) and cut them in half.
3. Remove the wings.
4. Marinate the four wings and four legs in Médoc red wine with aromatics (carrots, celery, leek, bouquet garni, onion, shallot, garlic, peppercorns, cloves, and salt).
DUCK STOCK
1. Break two duck carcasses into four or six pieces.
2. Add the necks and brown everything in duck fat.
3. Add the same aromatics and sweat gently.
4. Cover with water and simmer for 2 ½ to 3 hours.
The Day Of PREPARATION OF "LES CUISSES EN CIVET"
1. Remove the leg pieces and thighs from the marinade and brown them in duck fat.
2. Flambé with a small glass of Armagnac.
3. Cover with the marinade and simmer for 1 ½ hours.
4. Set aside the duck pieces and strain the marinade.
5. Thicken the sauce with brown roux and adjust with spices and salt.
6. Add sliced black olives, pearl onions, diced ham, and mushroom caps.
7. Cook for 15 minutes, then return the duck pieces to the sauce and cook for another 15 minutes or more.
8. Serve with croutons
ROASTED DUCK LEGS WITH ROOTS AND OLIVES
1. Cut carrots, salsify, parsnips, celeriac, and turnips into large pieces.
2. Sweat them with two chopped shallots and bacon bits in duck fat.
3. Add duck stock and small green olives.
4. Meanwhile, brown two duck thighs in duck fat.
5. Place them on the bed of root vegetables and cook for 30-40 minutes.
6. Thinly slice the duck fillets. Cover generously with vegetables and olives.
This dish represents the "state of art" I admire in great French chefs like Michel Guérard, Alain Senderens, Paul Bocuse, or Joël Robuchon. Their dedication to technique, flavor, and perfection inspires my approach to both cooking and winemaking. I love the fine attention to detail—the balance of flavors, the slow development of textures, and the harmony that comes with perfecting such a recipe.
Pairing this dish with Château Ducru-Beaucaillou is the ideal way to complement its flavors. A radiant, extremely elegant, and perfectly balanced vintage like 2015 pairs beautifully with the civet, while an older vintage such as powerful 2010 enhances the roasted breast with its refined notes.
This meal is a perfect union of land, tradition, and craftsmanship, representing the best of French gastronomy and the spirit of our estate. It's not just a meal, but a celebration of the craft that defines both our wines and our table. sl
WHEEL OF APPROVAL
Our
2025 Concours Calendar is required reading for car collectors and motoring enthusiasts.
Compiled by Matthew Cottrell
Concours d'Elegance, derived from a French term meaning "competition of elegance," traces its roots to 17th-century France, when aristocrats paraded their horse-drawn carriages through their estate grounds and Parisian parks on summer weekends. Today, the oldest motoring beauty pageant still in existence is the Concourso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este, first held on the grounds and gardens of the storied Villa d'Este Hotel on Lake Como in 1929. The Pebble Beach Concours holds the distinction of becoming America's first
JANUARY
19 Arizona Concours d’Elegance at the Scottsdale Civic Center ; arizonaconcours.org
FEBRUARY
2 Motorcar Cavalcade Concours d’Elegance at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa in Aventura, FL; motorcarcavalcade.com
15 Concours in the Hills presented by Phoenix Children’s Foundation; phoenixchildrensfoundation.org/signature/concours
27-3/2 ModaMiami at the Biltmore Coral Gables; modamiami.com
MARCH
9 30th Annual Amelia Islands Concours d’Elegance at the Golf Club at Amelia Island; ameliaconcours.com
APRIL
25-27 La Jolla Concours d’Elegance at La Jolla Cove; lajollaconcours.com
27 3rd annual Delray Beach Concours d’Elegance; delrayconcours.com
May
TBD Concourso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, Lake Como, Italy; concorsodeleganzavilladeste.com
2-5 The Greenbrier Concours d’Elegance; greenbrierconcours.com
3-4 Keels & Wheels Concours d’Elegance at the Lakewood Yacht Club; keels-wheels.com
30-6/1 Greenwich Concours; greenwichconcours.com
JUNE
TBD Exposition of Elegance: Classic Cars at Cheekwood in Nashville, TN; cheekwood.org
TBD Philadelphia Concours d’Elegance at the Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum; Philadelphiaconcours.com
TBD Goodwood
1 Valetta Concours d’Elegance in Malta; vallettaconcours.com
3-5 London Concours; londonconcours.co.uk
12-15 Highlands Motoring Festival in Highlands, NC; highlandsmotoringfestival.com
15 30th annual Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance; rodeodrive-bh.com/
and arguably most famous car show when it debuted in 1950. More than just a car show, many of these events, which take over golf courses, country clubs, and private estates, have become multi-day lifestyle events, melding myriad passions from fashion, fine dining, and retail. As the car collecting world continues to mature, the evolution of these events challenges the establishment to offer a diverse audience new ways of connecting with all facets of the motoring world. sl
JULY
6-12 68th annual Porsche Parade in Oklahoma City, OK; porscheparade.org
10-13 Goodwood Festival of Speed; goodwood.com
12 7th annual Concours d’Elegance at Copshaholm; concoursatcopshaholm.org
18-20 Keeneland Concours d’Elegance, Lexington, KY; keenelandconcours.com
25-26 Concours of Elegance Germany at Gut Kaltenbrunn on Lake Tegernsee; concoursofelegancegermany.com
AUGUST
TBD Lake Tahoe Concours d’Elegance; laketahoeconcours.com
13-16 Rolex Motorsports Reunion; whatsupmonterey.com/events/monterey-car-week
15 The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering; peninsula.com/en/signature-events/events/motorsports
16 Concourso Italiano; whatsupmonterey.com/events/monterey-car-week
17 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance; pebblebeachconcours.net
SEPTEMBER
TBD Artomobilia in Carmel, Indiana’s Arts & Design District; artomobilia.org
TBD The Bridge Hamptons; thebridgehamptons.com
TBD The Dayton Concours d’Elegance at Carillon Park; daytonconcours.com
10 The New York City Concours, Madison Avenue & 72nd Street; thenycconcours.com
OCTOBER
TBD Audrain Newport Concours & Motor Week; audrainconcours.com
TBD Chattanooga Motor Festival: chattanoogamotorcar.com
TBD Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance; hhiconcours.com
TBD 5th annual Ft. Lauderdale Concours at Superyacht Village; ftlconcours.com
NOVEMBER
TBD Concours Wynn Las Vegas; lasvegasconcours.com
DECEMBER
TBD Palm Beach Concours; palmbeachconcours.com
WONDERMENT IN THE WILDERNESS
Hotel Rangá is an ideal base for exploring the marvels within Iceland’s famed Golden Circle
Written by Claire Williams / Photography courtesy of Hotel Rangá
Looking out over Mýrdalsjökull, Iceland's fourth largest glacier atop the volcano Katla, spanning roughly the size of Chicago (230 square miles), if you're not taken aback by the striking landscape of the black volcanic rock mountains veiled by melted patches of white ice and the thick tunneled walls within the ice cave (formed by the glacier meltwater), you're sure to be humbled by a sensation of smallness. Standing on a glacier whose genesis has BC written after it and has lived and evolved through a time we can only imagine, you become aware that our experience in this lifetime is just a blip. We were lucky enough to witness the glacier when a rare ring shape had formed within the ice (the glacier is constantly changing with ice melting, making each visit unique), creating a picture-perfect aperture to survey the vastness below.
As an American, I'm no stranger to feeling small in a country of sprawling and impressive National Parks and cities with skyscrapers towering above one another. However, Iceland's terrain feels otherworldly in terms of its raw and seemingly untouched natural features and the fact that it doesn't resemble
anywhere else (evidenced by the many sci-fi movies like Star Wars and Interstellar filmed there).
Only a few worldwide destinations merit a double dip on one's bucket list, but Iceland is undoubtedly worthy. Here's why: the mainland of Iceland is only a few degrees south of the Arctic Circle, creating a dichotomy of summers when the sun never sets and winters full of dark and starry punctuated by the occasional aurora borealis. Thus, the island nation, about the size of Kentucky, is worth two visits to experience the drastic differences due to seasonality.
We touched down in Reykjavik near the end of May and were lucky to experience the beginning of summer in Iceland. The sun barely set, but we still needed a jacket to ward off the remainder of winter's lingering chill. At the fringes of Reykjavik's metropolitan area, nature grabs the spotlight, with ancient lava fields covered in spongy moss and mountains in the foreground. We made our way to the south to Hotel Rangá (hotelranga.is), a roughly two-hour drive from Reykjavik in the township of Hella and an ideal location for less driving and more access to the island's marquee attractions.
Arriving at Hotel Rangá, the sprawling ranch-style hotel, resembling a hunting lodge, sits alone amid a vast landscape that's bleak in a poetic sort of way. Owner Friðrik Pálsson greeted us at the front desk, standing next to Hrammur, a taxidermy polar bear standing on its hind legs so that one can truly appreciate all eight feet of the largest terrestrial carnivore. This moment of surprise is one of many in a hotel where the owner's idiosyncratic tendencies shine through in the whimsical design.
Hotel Rangá has 51 rooms, including eight suites individually decorated in homage to each continent. My favorite is the Iceland suite, which has a moveable breakfast nook via a rotating floor and a cozy comforter on the bed resembling a giant Icelandic sweater and knitted by local artists. After completing the commission, the artisans made it very clear to Pálsson that it would be their first and last giant sweater. Pálsson pointed to several of the hotel's 150 original artworks en route to our room. Most are attributed to local artists and derive inspiration from Iceland and its history. Cookie cutter it is not; a sense of place is palpable everywhere. From the moment I crossed the threshold, I was overcome with a feeling of "home," although I'd never been there.
Before dining at Rangá Restaurant, a drink at the bar is a must for an education in Icelandic gin and whiskey. As a native Kentuckian, I was pleased to find out the hotel has the largest whiskey selection in Iceland. One local specialty I grew fond of was an Icelandic single malt variety from Flóki Whiskey. Smoked with sheep dung, this whiskey's flavor profile is reminiscent of peated whiskey.
Rangá Restaurant offers modern Nordic cuisine with elevated local proteins such as salmon and lamb, but also more out-of-thebox (for non-Icelanders) options such as a reindeer carpaccio with truffle oil that I think I ordered for almost every meal. Rangá's diverse menu means guests don't need to search for dining elsewhere, which can sometimes be difficult in this sparsely populated region.
Hotel Rangá is positioned on the banks of the East Rangá River, a hot spot for salmon fishing and Iceland's most productive salmon river system for two decades. Several geothermal hot tubs dot the landscape outside the guestrooms and are ideal for quiet contemplation of the vast grasslands, reminiscent of the Great Plains. Enjoying the various health benefits of bathing in thermal baths is an Icelandic tradition dating back to settlement in the second half of the ninth century.
In addition to facilitating guests' access to Iceland's greatest hits, Pálsson is also on a mission to be a leader in innovation among independent Icelandic hoteliers. The newest addition to the amenities at Hotel Rangá is an unassuming wooden house built adjacent to the hotel. Inside, Pálsson spared no expense in tricking out the interior with the best telescopes in Iceland. The observatory's retractable roof makes it ideal for enjoying the Northern Lights and other celestial bodies, and on clear nights, a local astronomer takes guests on an engaging tour of the heavens. Cap off the experience with a starry night cocktail in the hotel bar.
Hotel Rangá embodies a passion project at every level, with Pálsson's ardor for his home country's culture, cuisine, and natural beauty wonderfully celebrated in details both great and small.
The advantageous timing of our trip, with its extended hours of daylight, offered more time to explore in Southcoast Adventure's (southadventure.is) "Super Jeeps," which are standard 4x4s highly modified to power through various terrain and weather conditions that can turn on a dime. Adventure-ready accouterments were necessary as bumpy, paved roads gave way to dirt roads before there were no discernable roads at all.
By some estimates, Iceland has 10,000 waterfalls, so many that passenger "oohs" and "aahs" subsided after a few hours. We marveled at the colorful houses lining the roads, resembling early Fisher Price "Little People" houses. Because it was lambing season, these scenes were even more idyllic with ewes and their frolicking offspring. The purity of Icelandic sheep's lineage, an essential part of Iceland's heritage and a key to survival is credited to centuries of isolation and a total absence of contact with others.
Bouncing along in dune buggies through the badlands of Rangárþing Eystra, on the south coast of Iceland, we seemed like mere ants in the face of the surrounding mountains' verdant valleys interspersed with the occasional waterfall, including Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss, the latter of which is the height of an 18-story building.
One of Iceland's most impressive waterfalls is Gulfoss, a doubletiered cascade plunging 105 feet into a canyon of the Hvítá River. It is a part of Iceland's Golden Circle, a route that also includes the Thingvellir National Park and the Geysir geothermal area. If you find yourself on the Golden Circle and can plan your trip far enough in advance, book a table at Friðheimar (fridheimar.is/en), an attraction in its own right. This family-run, tomato-to-table restaurant has
guests noshing everything tomato, fresh from greenhouses that do double-duty as dining rooms. And if the tomato soup bar and fresh bloody Mary's weren't enough, they also have a wine bar.
On our final night, we had the pleasure of having an intimate evening in the Caves of Hella (cavesofhella.is), ancient man-made caves whose origins are shrouded in mystery but were likely built by some of Iceland's first settlers. In the caves, you're regaled with local ghost stories and Viking lore. The acoustics were perfect as Pálsson's daughter, Ingibjörg, treated us to a private concert of Icelandic songs (and a few of her original compositions) as we sipped on local liquors and nibbled regional delicacies, including Greylag geese.
A familiar theme on this trip, within the belly of the Caves of Hella, I once again experienced moments of awe and smallness. As I surveyed the towering human-made sandstone walls, we noted areas where 9th-century settlers carved their loved one's names into the wall, not unlike contemporary teenagers cementing their affection on a tree trunk tree in a park. How would they react, I wondered, if they knew their love letters in stone would remain for us to ponder over a thousand years later, leading us to speculate on their identity and daily lives?
ouring Iceland presents a privileged glimpse of our world in some of its rawest forms, seemingly untouched by human intervention. Such stark and powerful beauty inspires deep thinking that puts everything into perspective. In my case, it was the realization that you get 76 summers and winters if you're lucky. I hope that fortuitous fate allows me to designate one of those winters for a return trip to the "land of fire and ice." sl
MODERN FAMILY
Interior Designer Bethany Adams respects history and a young family's needs while renovating a vintage Tudor-style home.
Clients: A Louisville, Kentucky native and director at a media company and her husband, who works in technology. The couple had lived in New York City for a decade. Following the birth of their first child, they moved back to Louisville at the start of the pandemic to be closer to family.
Challenges: A late 1980s renovation converted an original porch into a family room, leaving behind an awkwardly located structural column and a prominent structural beam. The original layout (as seen on the architect's initial blueprints) had been modified to close off a key hallway on the first floor, blocking light and flow. The primary bathroom layout was also awkward. The entire home was dark, and though there was plenty of space, it lacked storage and functionality. In addition, both clients work remotely, and the house did not have adequate and separate office space.
Solutions: Strategic reconfiguring hid the structural column behind a new plaster-finished fireplace in the family room. The original structural beam remains but is disguised amidst several new faux beams. A new mudroom was carved out of an awkward space behind the column, and a new breakfast room occupies what was once a large stair landing. Crittall doors and windows allow light to pour into the family room and kitchen. With the help of architect Mark Foxworth, a pull-down attic ladder was replaced with a staircase matching the home's original stair design that leads to a finished attic, housing the couple's individual offices. Crittall interior partitions and doors, along with numerous skylights and windows, allow light to filter through the entire space while providing auditory privacy.
Below, top: A vintage 1980s Weiman Ruched three-piece sectional upholstered in chartreuse by Schumacher, a green velvet Lawson-Fenning ottoman with a brushed brass base, artwork by Chris Bogia, and a bright red Eames Molded Plywood Lounge Chair, owned by the homeowners, establish the color palette in the family room. Sustainably made childsized table and chairs from ecoBirdy. New Crittall windows and doors flood the family room with natural light.
Below, bottom: A vintage 1980s Weiman Ruched three-piece sectional upholstered in chartreuse by Schumacher, a green velvet Lawson-Fenning ottoman with a brushed brass base, artwork by Chris Bogia, and a bright red Eames Molded Plywood Lounge Chair, owned by the homeowners, establish the color palette in the family room. New Crittall windows and doors flood the family room with natural light. The fireplace, entirely faux, was designed by Bethany Adams Interiors to cleverly disguise a structural column.
Draperies by Schumacher frame the living room, while a multi-tier Gaia Pendant from Ochre casts a warm glow. A side table in rich American walnut by Lawson-Fenning adds a touch of warmth.
Curved vintage Vladimir Kagan lounge chairs in cobalt blue complement a deep ocean blue sofa from Dmitriy & Co. The space is further refined by a Matin Table Lamp from Hay, a custom rug by Nanimarquina, a vintage travertine coffee table, and photographs by Bernd and Hilla Becher.
he primary bathroom features Zachary Grand floor tiles in a mix of patterns, paired with sleek, clean-lined cabinets that continue the Shaker Deco aesthetic. A Brizo Litze faucet adds a finishing touch. Adams custom-designed the vanity, combining walnut with Calacatta marble. The mirror, also her design, complements the space, while a ribbed light fixture, sourced from Chairish, hangs on the side.
IMAGINE WHAT SUSTAINABLE WEIGHT LOSS WOULD FEEL LIKE
By Terri Paige, CEO and co-founder of Medical Transformation Center
How many of us have tried a weight loss program only to gain our weight back (and more) after we went back to “normal” eating? Restrictive diets don’t work, and yo-yo dieting can leave you feeling depressed and defeated.
I know you’ve heard it before, but the only successful way to lose weight and keep it off is to make lifestyle adaptations. The Medical Transformation Center TransformWeight program was designed as a lifestyle plan, helping you to readjust your thinking and behaviors while offering resources to help you implement habits and practices that support you to attain a healthy weight and keep you there.
Taking Control and Losing Weight Annette came to MTC in 2019 with stomach and intestinal issues. She was 47, weighed 210 lbs., and was just hitting menopause. We worked to get her healthier metabolically and provided recommendations on dietary changes. She also began using semaglutide to help with weight loss. By the end of 2019, she had reached her all-time low of 158 pounds. She was in a good place and was continuing with some of our healthy lifestyle recommendations while taking semaglutide, but the challenges of COVID, which included the physical and mental stresses faced by so many of us, led to some setbacks for Annette. She started slipping into some old habits and gained more than 30 pounds. She was able to lose weight again, but by the end of 2022, she was stuck at 170 pounds.
Looking for a way to take control of her health again, Annette joined our first TransformWeight program in January 2023. She dedicated herself to the program and implemented all of its personalized recommendations.
Annette said, “(the program) encapsulated the full spectrum of information and practices that I needed to keep my body in a healthy state. It served as a roadmap to eating healthy. Because all the information is contained in one package, I found it easier to implement. When I feel I’m slipping a little, I use it as a guide to reorient my focus.”
It wasn’t until she fully embraced the Paleo-Mediterranean lifestyle we teach in TransformWeight that she saw real and lasting success. This was a turning point for Annette in her weight loss and health journey. Although she always exercised, her diet was lacking, and she was relying mostly on liraglutide for weight loss.
By the end of the three-month TransformWeight program, Annette had lost 25 pounds and weighed 146. Her blood pressure improved, and she experienced a reduction in inflammation. Her visceral fat rating dropped from 7 to 4, which is significant as visceral fat is both inflammatory and toxic and is associated with fatty liver, cancers, stroke, and increased cardiac risk.
Annette has continued to live the healthy lifestyle she learned in TransformWeight. She’s made sustainable changes, including nutrition, movement, supplements, and peptide therapies, all designed to keep her in shape. Continually diving into our other resources like cooking classes and workshops, now at 52, Annette is 135 pounds and feels better than ever.
Designing a Sustainable Lifestyle Program Patients like Annette are why we developed TransformWeight. We know how difficult it is to change habits. While some of our patients saw success with our advice and recommendations, others needed structure and a specific plan. TransformWeight is a complete program that includes many of the strategies we gave patients but were having difficulty implementing on their own. We also added accountability, small group support, workshops, and guidance to help participants see success.
TransformWeight is a physician-developed program that teaches people how to make lasting and sustainable lifestyle and health changes, allowing them to maintain long-term weight loss. It works on the whole person and includes:
• Lab work to determine food sensitivities and specific dietary needs for your body
• Targeted supplements
• Advanced peptide therapies
• Sessions with a personal trainer, an emotional eating psychotherapist and a coach
• Workshops with experts in the field
• Group meetings
• Help with grocery shopping, meal planning, and recipes
• In-office support to reach your goals
Some of the most significant stressors when you’re making lifestyle changes are dining out and going to the grocery store. Our group goes out to eat together to learn how to make better choices while dining out. I take small groups grocery shopping so they can pick the items they need to prepare the healthy Paleo-Med meals we discuss. We also discuss favorite meals, recipes, and snacks and how to transition them to a healthier Paleo-med version.
Group accountability is an integral part of the program, which participants said they like. We have a WhatsApp for the group so they can help and support one another, discuss challenges, and cheer victories. It’s helpful to know you’re not the only one struggling - there’s someone else who’s in it with you. On those down days, when your phone buzzes, and someone in the group has posted an inspirational quote or a new recipe or reached out with their challenge, it provides the kind of support to keep you motivated and on track to succeed.
We also offer customized peptide therapies, supplements, and other targeted treatments to help you lose weight in a sustainable and healthy way. Semaglutide, like Ozempic and Wegovy, has received extensive media coverage lately. We’ve been using these in our practice for years and know that when used responsibly and in combination with the lifestyle adaptations we teach in TransformWeight, they can lead to healthy, sustained weight loss without unsightly and unhealthy side effects.
Regardless of where you are on your weight loss journey, TransformWeight can help. For more information or to register for TransformWeight visit: medicaltransformationcenter.com/ transformation-weight-loss-program. sl
Terri Paige is CEO and co-founder of Medical Transformation Center with her husband, Dr. Carl Paige. Under Terri’s leadership, the Kentuckybased MTC has become a regional hub of innovation, advancing optimal health through integrative cellular and regenerative medicine. Working from a state-of-the-art medical center in Louisville, MTC offers a comprehensive, personalized approach to healthy aging, optimization, longevity, and complex presentations. Terri is a Fellow of the International Seeds Scientific Research and Performance Institute and a regular speaker at Institute symposiums; a Certified Lifestyle Coach through the American Academy of Anti-aging, Regenerative and Functional Medicine in conjunction with the Metabolic Medical Institute; and a Certified Professional Performance Coach through SourcePoint Training.
RESTORING A CLASSIC
Blue Grass MOTORSPORT receives national recognition for reviving a 1977 Porsche 911 Turbo.
Written by Elliott Greene / Photos courtesy of Porsche
The United States is home to more classic Porsche vehicles than any other market, creating a unique opportunity for specialized repair and restoration services to keep these beauties road-ready. Now in its fourth year, Porsche Classic North America's (PCNA) Restoration Challenge focuses on classic Porsche sports cars from the 1950s to the 2000s, inviting Porsche Centers across the United States to compete in one of three categories: Preservation, Restoration, and Individualization. Each vehicle receives expert attention from Porsche-trained technicians at dealerships across the country – all of whom are ardent enthusiasts, just like many owners. Fifty-eight Porsche vehicles entered this year's contest.
After a successful run in 2023 in the Preservation category, this year, Blue Grass MOTORSPORT chose a coveted 1977 Porsche 911 Turbo (model designation 930), one of just 727 made for the US market to compete in the Restoration category. It was the fastest production car in the world at its launch, with a top speed of 155 mph and the ability to sprint from 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds. Developed to compete head-to-head with the likes of Ferrari and Lamborghini, the car became known as the "Widowmaker" as the turbocharged engine came without the safety systems of today, namely power steering, ABS, or traction control.
While the car's unique combination of a "Peru Red" exterior and cork leather interior is likely rare, Jim Haynes, principal of Blue Grass MOTORSPORT, remarked that it's the exterior hue's resemblance to the burnt orange of his alma mater, the University of Texas, that caught his eye. "For all you Texas fans out there, root for this 930," Haynes said in a promotional video detailing the project in the leadup to the competition.
Though it had just 11,000 miles on the odometer, the car hadn't run in 15 years, presenting a unique restoration challenge. Over seven months, Ryan Utke, the Lead Porsche Classic Technician at Blue Grass MOTORSPORT, estimated 1,000 work hours went into the restoration, which included rebuilding the suspension, electrical system, and engine to match its original performance specifications, allowing this Turbo to perform just as it did in 1977.
The 930 made its public debut in July at the Keeneland Concours d'Elegance, followed by a cocktail reception at the Porsche showroom in Louisville. "This car makes me think back to what was going on in 1977," said Haynes at the showroom event. "This was the most exotic and forward-thinking car of that era."
The Louisville team's meticulous restoration work, supported by access to a portfolio of more than 80,000 Porsche Classic Genuine Parts, was rewarded by being named a finalist in Area South Central in the Restoration category. The 930, the oldest among the regional finalists, was sent to the Peterson Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, where the team's hard work garnered top honors in the Restoration and People's Choice categories. "The skill and dedication that went into each of these entries speaks volumes to the unparalleled passion surrounding Porsche vehicles of the past and the future," said Jonathan Sieber, Senior Manager of Porsche Classic. sl
Your Charitable Interests. Your Passions. Our Expertise.
As we approach year’s end, consider opening a charitable fund at the Community Foundation of Louisville. When you open a charitable fund with the Community Foundation, you can do more with your philanthropy than you ever thought possible.
Our team of experts can help you by:
Maximizing Your Tax Benefits
Making Your Charitable Giving Quick and Easy Offering Flexible Gift Options
All of our fund options can accept gifts of cash, stock, or other complex assets. Don’t wait until December to open your new charitable fund, get started today!
Following are two of our most popular fund options:
Charitable Checking Fund
Our Charitable Checking Fund has no fees and no minimum balance, and it’s the perfect vehicle to accept a quick tax-deductible gift before years-end. Scan the QR code to learn more!
Donor Advised Funds
Our Donor Advised Funds, combine maximum tax benefits with the flexibility to support your favorite charitable organizations at any time. These funds are invested for long-term growth and can be passed down to future generations. Scan the QR code to learn more!
In addition to offering convenient charitable fund options, here are two impactful initiatives that may also interest you.
SOPHISTICATED WEDDING
BETH GRAHAM + KYLE STEVENS
Photos by Andrea Hutchinson
Former collegiate athletes Beth Graham and Kyle Stevens met in the training room at Spalding University, where he played baseball, and she was on the golf team. "Together, we quickly realized how effortlessly our personalities and interests aligned," Beth recounted.
Kyle proposed in July 2022 at Beckley Park, a place that held a lot of sentimental value as the pair often visited with their dog, Drake. The proposal was a complete surprise, although Beth, who is the Marketing Director for Davis Jewelers, made sure her coworkers knew exactly what style of engagement ring she wanted the day Kyle came in to shop for it.
After sharing the engagement news with close friends Steve Humphrey and Janice Carter Levitch Humphrey, Steve generously offered Lincliffe, their beautiful historic river bluff estate, as the site for their wedding and reception venue. The couple did the heavy lifting for the wedding planning, with Beth saying, " It was a challenge, but one we embraced fully, as we wanted every detail to reflect our personal style."
To bring everything together on the wedding day, they used a day-of coordinator to ensure a seamless execution of their wedding vision.
The couple chose a "Garden Party Formal" theme reflective of Lincliffe's grandeur, with lush greens and whites setting the tone for the décor. Guests were invited to wear light-colored suits and elegant, colorful dresses, bringing freshness and sophistication to the day. Beth recounted personal touches that made their day feel unique: the bridesmaids carrying flower baskets that held their bouquets, parasol umbrellas, and customized fans for our guests, cocktail hour set in Lincliffe's beautiful, shaded garden, and a candlelit tented reception surrounded by friends, family, and their favorite music.
Ashley Davis Sigman, Vice President of Davis Jewelers, officiated the ceremony. "Over the past four years, she has been a role model to me and has witnessed the growth of our relationship," said Beth. "I knew her presence and words would make the ceremony both intimate and heartfelt, and she certainly delivered."
Following their wedding, the couple honeymooned in Italy, spending two weeks exploring Lake Como, Venice, Florence, Rome, and the Amalfi Coast. sl
The couple extends special thanks to the following:
• Kiersten Kremer, wedding coordinator. Beth said she helped keep everything on track and took over vendor communication in the final month. "She perfectly executed my vision."
• Andrea Hutchinson, photographer. "She captured the essence of our wedding day by striking an ideal balance between candid moments and traditional family and bridal party photos."
• Baes Baekery created a beautiful vintage-inspired cake, and delicious cookies loved by guests.
• Bluewater Kings Band set the tone with live music during the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception, creating the perfect atmosphere.
• Janice and Steve Humphrey. "They provided us with the most stunning and memorable venue we could have imagined."
SOPHISTICATED SOCIETY
1-3 Louisville Ballet’s Triple Take, Brown Theatre; louisvilleballet.org
1 Boys & Girls Haven Legacy Celebration; 5:30pm,The Olmsted; boysandgirlshaven.org/event/the-2024-legacy-celebration/
1 Epilepsy Foundation Gala, 6:30pm, Angel’s Envy Bourbon Club at L&N Stadium; efky.org/events/gala
7 Fillies Fashion Show, 6pm,The Ice House; https://acwfillies.wildapricot.org/event-5835843
7 Prodigal Ministries 30 yr. Anniversary Gala, 6pm,The Olmsted; prodigalky.org/events/
8 20th Anniversary of Gilda’s Night, 6pm, Gilda’s Club; gck.org/events/gildas-night/
9 11th annual Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards; alicenter.org/our-work/programs/maha/
9 Friendsgiving Gala, 7pm, Mellwood Art Center; parkcommunity.com/foundation
9 American Cancer Society Hope Gala, Louisville Marriott Downtown; Louisville.acsgala.org
9 Fire in the Field at Farmington, 6pm; visitfarmington.org
13-14 Holiday Shopping Boutique, 3-7pm, KP Designs, 8003 Vine Crest Ave. Ste 2
13-16 Festival of Faiths; festivaloffaiths.org
16 Bows & Bowties Gala, 6pm, Mellwood Art Center; ddieandbaylorfoundation.com/event-details-registration/4th-annual-bows-and-bow-ties-gala
20 The Rose Awards, Louisville Palace; louisvilleroseawards.com
23 Snow Ball, 6pm, Omni Louisville Hotel; one.bidpal.net/nortonchildrenssnowball24/welcome
29-30 Jack Harlow + Louisville Orchestra: No Place Like Home,Whitney Hall; lousivilleorchestra.org
November December
5 Holiday Open House at the Peterson-Dumesnil House, 5:30pm; crescenthill.us/events/#!event/2024/12/5/holiday-open-house
7 Nor ton Commons Holiday Open House, 4pm; nortoncommons.com/events
7 A Celebration of YPAS, 7pm, The Pointe
7 Blackacre Country Christmas, 11am; visitblackacre.org/events/country-christmas-2
7 Light Up Louisville; 3pm-9pm; louisvilleky.gov/government/city-events
7 Bardstown Road Aglow, Noon-10pm; bardstownroadaglow.org
7-8 Old Louisville Holiday Home Tours; oldlouisville.org/holiday-home-tour
11 Date Night at Gardens Aglimmer; Waterfront Botanical Gardens; waterfrontgardens.org/gardens-aglimmer/
13-24 The Brown-Forman Nutcracker; Whitney Hall; louisvilleballet.org
14 Farmington Holiday Open House, 6-9pm; visitfarmington.org
60TH ANNIVERSARY GALA
St. George’s Scholar Institute held a gala celebration of its 60th anniversary at the Muhammad Ali Center. The St. George’s Community Center serves students from ten JCPS schools during the academic and summer months. Their after-school program is the only one in the city to provide students with access to Study Island and Success Maker- in adherence with JCPS core standards.
WHISKEY THIEF VIP OPENING
Whiskey Thief, Kentucky’s first and only distillery to offer every visitor a unique straight-from-the-barrel tasting and thieving experience, held a VIP reception and ribbon cutting for their new NuLu tasting room at 610 Nanny Goat Strut.
BEN’S BRIGHT HORIZONS
The Stratford Family founded Ben’s Bright Horizons in 2023 after their eldest son Ben took his own life at the age of 21. The Foundation aims to provide crucial support for young individuals navigating mental health difficulties and to raise awareness about the prevailing mental health crisis effecting our youth. Their inaugural golf tournament and silent auction were held at Hunting Creek Country Club.
A TOAST TO 10 YEARS OF TRANSFORMATIONS
Dr. Carl and Terri Page, co-founders of Medical Transformation Center, hosted a cocktail reception for clients and special guests at Owl Creek Country Club to herald a decade of sharing their vision of vitality via integrative regenerative and cellular medicine and to officially welcome
AGE SMART FEST
Medical Transformation Center provided a glimpse at the future of optimal aging at this second annual outdoor health fair that shared the latest in Integrative Regenerative and Cellular Medicine.
by
FIELD TO FORK
Held at the Brown-Forman Silo Center in Turkey Run Park, proceeds from the event benefit The Parklands of Floyds Fork, one of the largest park systems in the nation operated as a nonprofit.
DIGENIS OPEN HOUSE
Dr. Alexander Digenis and his team hosted a “Cosmetic Odyssey,” their first open house to showcase the state-ofthe-art plastic surgery center and med spa at their Terra Crossing Boulevard office. Guests enjoyed live demonstrations of cutting-edge technology, sampled signature cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, and received special event pricing on aesthetic packages, injectables, dermal fillers, and skincare.
TOWER AWARDS
Presentation Academy presented its 29th annual Tower Awards during a reception at the Galt House Hotel. The school’s largest fundraising event celebrates women who are at the forefront of their fields and recognizes them for their accomplishments.
TWILIGHT IN THE GARDEN
Yew Dell Garden’s signature fundraising event, the 2024 garden party, presented by Mercedes-Benz of Louisville, featured dinner from Volare and live and silent auctions. Proceeds from the event directly benefit the preservation of Yew Dell’s beautiful grounds along with workshops, educational programs, and community activities.
CASABLANCA
Held at the Frazier History Museum, CASA of the River Region’s speakeasy-style event raised funds to ensure the organization can continue supporting and promoting courtappointed volunteer advocacy for abused, neglected, and dependent children to thrive in safe, permanent homes.
COLORS OF COURAGE
More than $60,000 was raised to fund metastatic breast cancer research as part of the Hope Scarves Color of Courage event, presented by UofL Health / Brown Cancer Center. Since 2015, Hope Scarves has raised more than $1 million to invest in translational research and clinical trials.
WEALTH MANAGEMENT & TRUST
Objectivity, Experience, Professionalism.
Since 1904, Stock Yards Bank & Trust’s Wealth Management team has been guiding individuals, families, businesses, and institutions across the U.S. towards financial security. We specialize in crafting financial plans, investment strategies, retirement roadmaps, and trust & estate services to meet your unique goals. Contact us today to start your financial journey.
BIOPHILIC
DESIGN (A WINE & DESIGN SEMINAR)
HOSTED BY KP DESIGNS
KP Designs - Decorating
NEW LOOK, NEW US, NEW YOU @ CENTER FOR BEAUTY MEDICAL SPA AND PLASTIC SURGERY
Plastic surgeon Dr. Sean Maguire unveiled a new iteration of Physician’s Center for Beauty, a well-regarded aesthetic practice and one of Louisville’s first medical spas. The practice, founded in 2005, has expanded beyond medical spa services and medical aesthetics to include laser and other minimally invasive cosmetic procedures, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, a retail skincare boutique, an e-commerce skincare outlet, and full-scale plastic surgery. The open house marked a new chapter for one of Louisville’s most esteemed plastic surgery practices, with a refreshed look and an enhanced patient experience.
MARKING A MILESTONE
Dr. Chet Mays and Mays Plastic Surgery and Med Spa hosted a cocktail reception in honor of Dr. Marc Salzman, who is retiring from his three-decade-long private practice plastic surgery career in Louisville. He will continue to work part-time at Holcomb-Kreithen Plastic Surgery in Sarasota and Tampa, Florida. Drs. Salzman and Mays have partnered to provide a continuum of care for Dr. Salzman's existing Louisville clientele.
GALLOPALOOZA
Disco fever broke out during the Gallopalooza auction at the Marriott Louisville East, with “Disco Horse,” created by Louisville artist Robert Brown, fetching the highest bid of the night, selling for $17,000. Thirty-one full-sized and 38 tablesized horses were up for auction, with proceeds benefitting the greening and beautification of Louisville's gateways and neighborhoods carried out by the Brightside Foundation.
IT’S ELECTRIC
ART OF BOURBON
or
DENIM & DIAMONDS
BROADWAY BRUNCH
The Kentuckiana Stroke Association's largest fundraiser is a dinner-by-the-bite event highlighting the talents and generosity of local restaurants, chefs, and distillers.
SOPHISTICATED STARS
Happy Holidays and Happy Birthday, Scorpio & Sagittarius! The coming months are busy with planetary news, as Pluto changes signs from Earth sign Capricorn to air sign Aquarius from November 19th, 2024, to January 2044. Pluto rules transformation and regeneration. Read on to find out how this transit will transform and regenerate you. Didn't see your sign? Head to slmag.net/louisville for more.
Scorpio
October 23rd - November 21st
Pluto's transit through Aquarius will transform your home and family with the new moon on November 1st, beckoning a new beginning. What do you want to manifest, dear Scorpio? Your wish is the Universe's command. Be cautious at the full moon in Taurus, as it figures strongly on November 15th featuring your house of partnership and marriage. During this period, it's advisable to be intentional and take the high road; don't say anything you may regret. Then, at the new moon in Sagittarius on November 30th, the Universe opens new doors toward a new role or incomemaking opportunity that will bring you immense success.
SAGITTARIUS
November 22nd -December 21st
Pluto will transform communication, including your sibling relationships, agreements, and contracts in powerful and profound ways. It's a great time to embark on a new writing project for ultimate transformation. The new moon in Scorpio on November 1st invites Sagittarius to tackle a wellness journey, while the new moon in Sagittarius on November 30th gifts you a healthy dose of inspiration. At the new moon in Capricorn on December 30th, just before New Year's
CAPRICORN
December 22nd -January 19th
From November 19th, 2024, through January 2044, Pluto's transit in Aquarius will transform and regenerate your financial picture. How you earn a living will be social and connected. The new moon in Scorpio on November 1st brings new friends and social connections to the forefront. You'll start a fresh journey towards wellness at the new moon in Sagittarius on November 30th. The beautiful highlight of December will come at the new moon in Capricorn on December 30th, allowing you to manifest dreams into
Stars Astrologist Joy Yascone Elms MA
Written by Joy Yascone Elms MA
Field &Fork
Benefitting The Parklands of Floyds Fork
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ARE YOU FINANCIALLY PREPARED FOR A DISASTER?
WE HAVE ALL WITNESSED THE DEVASTATION CAUSED BY HURRICANES, TORNADOES, FLOODS, EARTHQUAKES AND FIRES. IN THE WAKE OF THESE DISASTERS, WE OFTEN COME TOGETHER AS A COMMUNITY — DONATING MONEY, FOOD AND SUPPLIES TO HELP THOSE IN NEED.
Yet, amid our efforts to support our neighbors, we can’t help but wonder: what if this was me? Am I truly prepared for a disaster?
Many individuals update their insurance policies and feel confident in their readiness. However, preparedness goes beyond just coverage. Have you considered what would happen if crucial documents—such as a will, financial records, home deeds, car titles, birth certificates and passwords—were lost or destroyed? To ensure you’re fully prepared for any emergency, here are a few essential tips to safeguard your personal and financial data.
1. Know your banker. Develop a personal relationship with your bank. In times of need this connection can prove to be extremely valuable. Today, many people choose to do their banking electronically. While convenient, this has diminished personal bonds with your financial professional. Without these bonds, in times of need or disaster, banking may prove to be more difficult.
2. Make copies of important documents (and passwords). Store these items in a place away from your home. Many people have fireproof file cabinets or a safe at home. In a catastrophic event, these safeguards may be destroyed. Obtain a safety deposit box at a bank to place
copies of important documents. You may also consider placing documents in the cloud or paper copies of documents with family members in another city. If a Trust has been established, documents may be placed with the Trustee.
3. For the immediate need of evacuation. Everyone should always have copies of identification (including social security card –which will be required to apply for FEMA disaster relief), medical information (and medicine), credit cards and at least $1,000 cash. Electricity may not work, so cash will be essential in this instance. Of course, you should have a full tank of gas, some food and water for your family and pets.
4. A disaster can disrupt mail service for days or weeks. For those who are dependent on Social Security or other regular benefits, switching to electronic payments is a simple, significant way to protect yourself financially before disaster strikes. It also eliminates the risk of stolen checks. Additionally, establishing automatic payments for your mortgage, car loans and credit cards will ensure your credit score remains high.
5. Memberships and Passwords. In today’s society, we have memberships and passwords for multiple organizations—including hotels, airlines, car rental agencies, credit cards, internet, utilities,
clubs, etc. The list is endless. Keep a copy of all of these membership numbers, login credentials and passwords in a safe location.
Being prepared for a natural disaster is crucial not only for physical safety but also for financial stability. Securing essential documents—such as identification, financial records, and legal papers—ensures that you can access vital resources and support in the aftermath of a crisis. Additionally, having a plan for your finances, including emergency cash and electronic payments, can help you navigate challenges more effectively. By taking these steps, you can minimize stress and safeguard your family’s wellbeing during unpredictable events.
Independence Bank has been delivering financial solutions for decades. As Kentucky’s largest privately held bank, we offer personal, commercial, investment and trust products*, services and expertise as diverse as our unique communities and clients. Independence Bank possesses the size and experience to serve large and complex clients and the liberty for consumers and businesses to reach long-term goals. As we navigate the changing economic landscape, Independence Bank welcomes you to visit at 3901 Shelbyville Road in St. Matthews or online anytime at www.1776bank.com.
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THE FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY (“FEMA”) RECOMMENDS THAT COPIES OF THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS ARE STORED IN A SAFE PLACE:
Vital records (birth, marriage, divorce certificate, adoption, child custody papers)
Passport, driver’s license, Social Security card, green card, military service identification, other.
Pet ownership papers, identification tags.
Housing: lease or rental agreement, mortgage, home equity line of credit, deed.
Vehicle: loan documents, VIN, registration, title.
Other Financial Obligations: utility bills, credit cards, student loans, alimony, child support, elder care, automatic payments such as gym memberships.
Financial Accounts: checking, savings, debit cards, retirement, investments.
Insurance Policies: homeowners, renters, auto, life, flood, appraisals, photos, and lists of valuable items.
Sources of Income: pay stubs, government benefits, alimony, child support.
Tax Statements: Federal/state income tax returns, property tax, and vehicle tax.
Estate Planning: will, trust, power of attorney.
Health/dental insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, VA health benefits.
List of medications, immunizations, allergies, prescriptions, medical equipment and devices, pharmacy information.
Living will, medical power of attorney.
Caregiver agency contract or service agreement.
Disabilities documentation.
Contact information for doctors/specialists, dentists, pediatricians, veterinarians. You may obtain a full list of items www.ready.gov.
ROAD