Timeless Elegance Awaits.
This New Year, redefine your lifestyle with Dielmann Sotheby’s International Realty. Distinctive homes, personalized service.
Walk into and you will be immediately inspired. Our ever-evolving selection of plumbing fixtures & fittings will heighten your senses and spark your creativity. We are St. Louis’ top choice for designers, builders, contractors, and their clients due to our talented showroom staff and best in class service. Visit immerse and allow our selection, environment, and experience to bring your next project to fruition. Immerse yourself in Dreams.
St. Louis’ Finest Plumbing Showroom. Family Owned since 1937. Shop Local.
PUBLISHER
Craig Kaminer
Craig@slmag.net
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Christy Marshall
EditorSTL@slmag.net
ADVERTISING
Cortney Vaughn Cortney@slmag.net
Rachel Sokolich
Rachel@slmag.net
Karen Palmer Bland Karen.palmer.bland@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTORS
Writers Alexa
Craig Kaminer
Christy Marshall
Design
Photography
John Lorre
Alise
Carmen Troesser
SOPHISTICATED
Eric
Bridget
Greg Butrum
Jason Yann
We are running a story in this issue about a couple who lives in the Central West End. After their family grew, they determined they had outgrown their house and bought another a few blocks away.
But they didn’t move. Instead, they stayed and redid it top to bottom.
I get it. I have one of those houses.
Mine is a bungalow in Kirkwood. The sweet man I married and I bought it more than three decades ago from the incredibly talented designer Tim Rohan and his wife Ginny. We walked in, it was decorated to the nines and it was positively perfect. We put in our bid that day.
We’d been married a little over a year; we had one fine canine Boxer (not two) and we had no notion that we would be adopting the Great Ms. Kate from China. So, we moved in and years later, in a well-worn Kirkwood tradition, we added on: a study for my husband, a second full bath, a walk-in closet and a study nook for Katie.
The house was built in 1890, one of the first on the Leffingwell plantation. The original owners stayed until their two elderly spinster daughters ended up in rehab. One was blind; the other taught geography at Mary Institute for nearly 50 years. A rehabber flipped it and Ginny Rohan (pre-Tim) bought it. Then they had a two-story addition and the prettiest shed built. That makes us only the third long-term residents.
The house is so old. So, so very old. It reminds us of it every day.
Ominous cracks have appeared in the living room ceiling - and just like weeds in a garden, they are spreading. The additions seem to be trying to drift away from the core. Corners are sagging. Basement beams are undeniably worse for the wear. The floor has a certain unnerving give. The stairs are steep. Possums and raccoons like to saunter on our roof waking us up late at night.
We seriously contemplated the sell-as-is approach and scurrying for the hills. We aren’t. For better or worse, this house is ours. Also, I’m nearly positive that if we leave it, it will (in a newfound Kirkwood craze) be razed.
Can’t do it. Won’t do it. It would break my heart into a billion bits to drive by and see an empty lot where our handsome yet humble home had been.
As my husband keeps pointing out: We’re in our 70s, so the odds heavily favor the house surviving us. It’s true. And there is that other undeniable truth that houses are so much more than failing foundations.
Our world has happened here.
There was the arrival of Katie. Then that time she was in the hospital for almost a month and a pair of angels, Pat and Terry Stratmann, came in and swathed her room in tulle. They painted the floor in a checkerboard pattern of purple and pink and adorned the lampshades with a flurry of silk flower petals. When she saw it for the first time, Katie gasped. It was a little girl’s dream.
Katie’s naturalization fete. The annual birthday bashes first for my father and then for Katie. The hordes of adorable neighboring hooligans Katie played with day in, day out. All those Christmases. The wakes when my parents passed away. The day the upstairs toilet overflowed and as I walked in the house, I wondered when and why we had added a waterfall in the den. The Thanksgiving night we watched the movie “Up” in the den as our dining room caught aflame. The arrival (and departure) of so many dogs, cats, fish, hamsters and one rabbit. Most were absolutely adored, some were not.
Katie grew up in this house; my sweet husband and I have grown old here. So, we’re staying. With help from a wonderful designer, we will put some new paint (etc.) on the old digs and look forward to (fingers tightly crossed) another decade.
The house has our heart and our soul.
It will never let go.
Christy Marshall, Editor in Chief EditorSTL@slmag.net
A quiet extension from the rest of the home, this primary bedroom is a tranquil respite for this busy and fun-loving couple. The designer incorporated calm colors, peaceful pattern play and plenty of natural light to achieve this goal.
A Colefax and Fowler floral fabric serves as a jumping-off point for the room’s color palette where every detail interacts with this anchoring element. A matching Colefax and Fowler blue and cream plaid adds a masculine complement to the florals. A blue upholstered bench and a blue-gray beveled-edged Lee headboard frame the elegant bed. A muted blue-green trim perfectly pairs with the blues in the room, acting as a juxtaposition to the rest of the home’s white trims. The walls painted in a soft white quiet the room. And the elegant chandelier unifies the gold accents and is an homage to the client’s flower garden.
P rivate, sophisticated and calm, this primary suite is simply a breath of fresh air.
“Food is about more than just feeding people. It’s about telling a story, building community and creating moments that people remember.” — Gerard Craft
By Craig Kaminer / Photos by Carmen Troesser
St. Louis has long been a city of culinary traditions, rich with its toasted ravioli, gooey butter cake and deep loyalty to local favorites. Yet over the past two decades, a revolution has redefined dining in the Gateway City. At the heart of this transformation stands Gerard Craft, a James Beard Award-winning chef who not only elevated the city’s restaurant scene but also positioned St. Louis as a national food destination.
Craft’s journey to culinary stardom began far from Missouri. Born in Washington, D.C., Craft initially pursued a career in photography in Los Angeles. To make ends meet, he started working at a small restaurant. There he discovered his true passion for cooking. The energy of the kitchen, the artistry of plating and the thrill of creating flavors ignited a spark that led him to culinary school and to some of the most respected kitchens in the country including Bistro Toujours in Park City, Utah, and Chateau Marmont in Los Angeles.
In 2005, at just 25 years old, Craft took a leap of faith and opened Niche in the Benton Park neighborhood of St. Louis. With its innovative approach to fine dining and focus on locally sourced foods, Niche quickly became a beacon of culinary creativity in a
city better known at the time for barbecue and casual eats. Craft’s decision to open his flagship restaurant in St. Louis was seen as unconventional, but it proved to be a masterstroke that catalyzed a larger culinary movement.
Niche was more than just a restaurant; it was a manifesto. Craft’s dishes married bold innovation with a deep respect for Midwestern ingredients. Menus changed with the seasons. Craft introduced St. Louis diners to a world of flavors and techniques that challenged preconceived notions of what constituted “fine dining.” Over the next several years, Craft expanded his culinary empire by opening a series of restaurants that pushed the boundaries of their respective genres.
Brasserie by Niche, launched in 2009, brought the warmth and authenticity of a classic French bistro to the Central West End. Since then he has expanded the concept to include Brass Bar. Pastaria, opened in 2012 in Clayton, offered a more casual but equally thoughtful dining experience, featuring house-made pasta and woodfired pizzas that became instant hits. It has since been expanded to include Pastaria Deli & Wine.
Taste, a cocktail bar and small-plates concept, added a layer of sophistication to St. Louis’ nightlife.
Sardella, which replaced Niche in 2016, reimagined Italian cuisine with Craft’s signature flair for reinvention. (It is now closed after an 11-year run).
After a five-year partnership with the Four Seasons Hotel, the contract for Gerard Craft’s Cinder House restaurant expired on Jan. 8, 2024. “Cinder House was a deeply personal project for me, featuring our take on several dishes inspired by my childhood nanny, Dia, a native of Brazil. After opening in 2018, we hosted countless special experiences and dinners and even weathered the pandemic –no small feat for a destination restaurant within a hotel.”
Each restaurant not only earned critical acclaim but also created a ripple effect, inspiring other chefs and restaurateurs to elevate their own offerings. The result was a competitive yet collaborative culinary scene that drew attention from food lovers across the country.
In 2015, Craft was awarded the James Beard Foundation Award for Best Chef: Midwest, a coveted honor often referred to as the “Oscars of the food world.” The recognition was not just
a personal triumph for Craft but it put St. Louis on the national culinary map.
“I always felt that St. Louis had the potential to be something incredible,” Craft said in his acceptance speech. “This award is for everyone who believed in that vision.”
Winning the James Beard Award drew more national media attention to Craft and his restaurants. Food writers and critics who had previously overlooked St. Louis started visiting the city and uncovering a vibrant dining scene that had been years in the making.
Beyond his personal accolades, Gerard Craft has been a catalyst for nurturing talent and fostering community. Many chefs including Matt Daughaday (Idol Wolf), Nate Hereford (Chicken Scratch), Alec Shingle (The Robin Project), Chris Kelling (Pizza Champ), Andrew Cisneros (Jalea, Brasas), Adam Altnerther (formerly Elmwood), Philip Day (Root Food & Wine), James Peisker (Porter Road Butcher), Josh Poletti (Wright’s Tavern) and Dakota Williams (Winslows Table) who honed their skills in Craft’s kitchens have gone on to open their own successful restaurants, contributing to the city’s dynamic food ecosystem.
Craft’s commitment to mentoring reflects his belief that the growth of the St. Louis culinary scene is a collective effort.
Craft’s leadership goes beyond his own restaurants. He’s always been about lifting others up and making sure St. Louis thrives as a whole, and his influence also extends to his role as an advocate for sustainability and local sourcing. By forging partnerships with area farmers and purveyors, he has helped create a stronger local food economy, proving that high-quality, locally sourced ingredients are not just a trend but a standard.
Like any successful restaurateur, Craft has faced his share of challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented difficulties for the entire restaurant industry and forced Craft to adapt and innovate to keep his businesses afloat. He implemented carryout options, developed meal kits and pivoted to more casual offerings to meet the needs of a community in crisis.
“It was one of the hardest periods of my life,” Craft admits. “But it also reminded me why I do this work — to bring people together, even in the toughest times.”
Today, Gerard Craft’s impact is visible not just in his own restaurants but in the vibrancy of St. Louis’ culinary landscape. The city boasts a rich tapestry of dining options, from experimental fine dining to casual eateries that prioritize craftsmanship. Craft’s vision and leadership have played a crucial role in shaping this evolution.
Looking ahead, Craft continues to innovate. He purchased Café Osage, attached to the Bowood Farms shop, and reopened it as Bowood by Niche, a restaurant and café that combines seasonal dining with a lush garden center. He is also working on the expansion of his fast-casual Italian concept Porano featuring everything from pizzas and salads to build-your-own pasta bowls.
Gerard Craft’s vision has extended into two of St. Louis’ newest venues: CityPark and City Foundry STL. At CityPark (now Energizer Park), the stadium for St. Louis CITY SC, Craft played a critical role in reimagining the stadium dining experience. Fans now enjoy elevated food options that highlight local ingredients and regional flavors, transforming what it means to eat at a soccer match. Similarly, Craft’s involvement in City Foundry STL, a bustling food hall and community space, has solidified its reputation as a launch pad for innovative culinary talent. There he has overseen the openings of the Kitchen Bar, None of the Above (a speakeasy), Fordo’s Killer Pizza and EXPAT BBQ. By curating spaces that celebrate local chefs and creativity, Craft has helped redefine the relationship between food, community and entertainment in St. Louis.
For St. Louis, Gerard Craft’s story is one that will be told for generations. His impact has left an indelible mark on the city he now calls home. As St. Louis continues to grow as a metropolis famous for its fine food, it does so on the foundation laid by one chef’s extraordinary vision. sl
After buying a new house in their current neighborhood, the siren call of their existing abode forced these Central West End homeowners to think again.
By Christy Marshall / Photography by Alise O’Brien
Houses can grab a person’s heart and never let go.
Ten years ago, these homeowners — she’s from St. Louis, he hails from Boston — moved from New York back to St. Louis and bought a house in the Central West End. After their family expanded to four, they bought a manse on Hortense Place.
But they never moved in. They cancelled the sale.
“They were like, ‘We love it here,’” says Julie Baur of Baur Interiors, the interior designer on the project. “‘We love the location.’ And they just couldn’t really wrap their brains around trying to make that house feel as good as this house.”
Plunked on a corner lot, the house exudes the charms of the turn of the century. Once the family decided to love it, not list it, they
packed up the family and the dog and moved to an apartment on Kingshighway while their house was redone. Top to bottom.
“It was a total redo,” Julie says. “The overall goal was to make it more practical and livable for their young family.”
Architect Susan Bower of Bower Leet Design and Matt Markway of Markway Construction were added to what Baur calls the “dream team.”
The house “had a lot going for it,” Susan Bower says. “It shows how a house like this can be renovated for the 21st century… All these houses were built with the idea that you would have servants so the spaces were all segregated with the front of house, back of house. What we did was open it all up and get rid of those distinctions.”
The existing kitchen before the redo was small and dark. The architect flipped the kitchen to the opposite side of the house and the old kitchen was transformed into the family room. A glassy two-story addition was clipped on to the back of the house adding much needed space and light. The patio level was raised to align with the main floor and a gym was tucked below it. Existing millwork stayed. The cabinets were fabricated by Classic Woodworking. “Picking these colors was just such a treat because they’re so different,” Baur says. The kitchen now opens into the breakfast room, new family room and mudroom.
“I think it is very hard to find this aesthetic in the Central West End where you modernize while giving a nod to the history of the house,” says Alise O’Brien, the photographer on the story. “They celebrated what they were in. Also, they brought color into the house and were not afraid to paint wood-stained millwork. I think that really works in an old house. It gives it life.”
The transformation took two years. Rooms were flipped. An old porch was ripped off. An addition to the back of the house was built allowing for a larger kitchen, family room, breakfast room and mudroom. Part of a back staircase was removed leaving space for a new laundry room and pantry. The powder room was redone. The
garage was rebuilt and a new patio was constructed with an indoor gym below. The unfinished basement was finished – made taller and transformed into a sleepover heaven with kitchenette, full bath, craft area and top-of-the-line exercise room.
“[The homeowners] are both very sophisticated and have a beautiful art collection and unique pieces from years of travel,” Julie says. “She is an artist, among other things, and was not afraid to take risks. All in all, it was a delightful project with a very special end result.”
Outside, the exterior was painted, new gardens added.
“For a Central West End house, it feels so charming,” Julie says. “It’s such a happy home.” sl
Build a Fischer & Frichtel home on your land! Simply choose a home design from our collection and customize it with our wide range of options. We will guide you through the entire process: evaluation of the land, financing, architectural and municipal requirements, construction and closing. Call or visit our website, and tour the stunning display homes in our master-planned communities and intimate enclaves throughout St. Charles and St. Louis counties. You will love the Fischer & Frichtel experience.
SINCE 1991
What’s better than an organized closet? An organized closet from a company that’s as passionate about St. Louis as you are! Enter Saint Louis Closet Co., a locally-owned, woman-led business that’s been transforming homes—and lives—since 1991. At the heart of it all is Jennifer Quinn Williams, the founder and president who turned her love for organization into a thriving business. Starting with a big dream and an even bigger work ethic, Jennifer has grown Saint Louis Closet Co. into the go-to for custom closets and storage systems. And here’s the kicker: it’s all done right here in St. Louis.
From designing to manufacturing to installing, everything happens locally at their Maplewood showroom and factory. But this isn’t just about closets; it’s about community. Saint Louis Closet Co. is all about breaking barriers and building relationships. Jennifer’s leadership has inspired countless women and entrepreneurs in the area, proving that success doesn’t have to come at the cost of your values.
Now, let’s talk closets—because, wow, these aren’t your average shelves and rods. Saint Louis Closet Co. designs storage systems that feel like they’re straight out of your Pinterest dreams. Need a chic pantry? Done. A swoon-worthy master closet? Easy. A kid’s room that might actually stay clean? They’ve got you covered. The best part? Everything is custom-made to fit your space, style, and needs. Saint Louis Closet Co. isn’t just about organizing homes; it’s about creating spaces that make life easier and more enjoyable.
Every consultation feels personal, every design is tailored, and every installation is seamless. And because it’s all done locally, you’re not just upgrading your home—you are supporting a small business that’s deeply rooted in St. Louis. So, if you’re ready to turn clutter into calm and support a business that truly gives back, look no further.
Saint Louis Closet Co. is more than a brand; it is a St. Louis success story—and one that can make your space look pretty amazing.
On and off the court, Incarnate Word grad and WNBA superstar Napheesa “Phee” Collier is soaring to new heights.
By Gerald Dlubala Photos courtesy of the Minnesota Lynx and Dan Rolfes
Star WNBA Minnesota Lynx captain Napheesa Collier may have a home in St. Louis but she doesn’t get back as much as she’d like. Nevertheless, the city still has a hold on her.
Napheesa’s high school basketball journey began in Jefferson City, playing for Jefferson City High School and for the Lady Warriors, an Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) team Collier’s parents started since the existing team had a full roster. Before her sophomore year, the Collier family moved to St. Louis for Napheesa’s mother’s job in hospital administration and Napheesa transferred to Incarnate Word Academy for her remaining three years of high school. There she shattered records and gained national recognition as a standout basketball star.
“Moving to St. Louis during my sophomore year of high school was a turning point in my life, both on and off the court,” Napheesa says. “The city welcomed my family and me with open arms and I quickly found a home there. I’ll always be grateful for how it shaped me as an athlete and a person. It’s a place I will always hold close to my heart.
“Some of my favorite St. Louis memories come from playing high school basketball. Winning three state championships at
Incarnate Word Academy was incredible, and the support from the students and faculty made it so meaningful.”
Those three state championships came with many personal accolades for Napheesa. Along with being the stats leader for the school, she was named a McDonald’s All-American, the Gatorade Player of the Year, and the Jordan Brand All-American. She had her choice of colleges and she chose the University of Connecticut (UConn) and the nation’s most high profile and winningest women’s college basketball coach, Geno Auriemma. When Napheesa traveled home when Connecticut played against the Saint Louis University Lady Billikens, Incarnate Word Academy surprised her with a one-of-a-kind ceremony.
“A few years ago, my jersey was retired at Incarnate Word Academy,” Collier says. “It was an honor I never expected. It meant the world to me. It’s a reminder of the hard work at the beginning of my basketball journey and how far that has brought me. I hope it can set an example for the next generation of young players.”
“She’s the first and only athlete at Incarnate Word to have had a jersey retired,” Incarnate Word Academy varsity basketball coach Dan Rolfes says. “It was fantastic. It was a great night for everyone.”
Napheesa made an immediate impression on St. Louis’ high school basketball scene and especially on Rolfes, who lives just minutes away from Napheesa and her husband, Alex Bazzell’s, St. Louis home. The couple has a daughter, Mila Sarah Bazzell.
“I grew up very near Alex’s childhood home and have known him since he was just a little kid,” Rolfes says. “I’ve known him for a long time on a different level, and with him being Napheesa’s husband now, it’s just weird how that all happened.”
Napheesa still stays in touch with Rolfes and he remains as impressed with her today as he was the first time he saw her on the court in high school.
“I knew that she was an outstanding player from seeing and playing against her during her freshman year in Jefferson City,” Rolfes says. “I knew about her tremendous quality of play from Incarnate Word playing against her several times and from our scouting. I vividly remember Napheesa playing her first game with us on one of our allowed summer contact days, which included tournaments and shootouts. After watching her, I turned to my assistant coach and told him we would win state that year. It was literally her first weekend ever playing with us and that was the impact she was having on our team and our players.”
Rolfes said that everyone knew Napheesa as an amazing player but they didn’t realize how amazing she was off the court.
“She never talked about wanting to be an All-American or about wanting to go to UConn for college basketball or anything personal like that,” Rolfes recalls. “Napheesa is one of the most humble people
I know, and most of the time, she didn’t even want to talk about basketball. She never sought attention for herself or talked about her achievements. And it’s not because she wasn’t driven to be the best player she could be, because she was. It’s just that she wasn’t in your face about it, always letting her play on the court speak for her and the kind of person she was. She really is unbelievably nice and humble, so much so that I can tell you that when she played other teams and scored her normal 30-plus points with numerous rebounds, that team would want to take pictures with her after the game. It was because, yes, she was a special player, but she was also a good, humble person. You know, people are often turned off by success, but it’s hard to dislike her or what she does. That speaks volumes when we see many great athletes constantly seeking attention and concerning themselves with social media stats.”
Rolfes says that the normal pregame routine was to see Napheesa sitting quietly before games in the locker room, reading a murder mystery novel. She is and always has been an avid reader.
In 2019, Collier was drafted by the Minnesota Lynx as the sixth overall pick in the WNBA draft. In her first year on the team she was named Rookie of the Year and made her first All-Star appearance. She’s also won two Olympic gold medals, first in Tokyo in 2020 and then Paris in 2024. Currently, Napheesa is a vice president on the Women’s National Basketball Players Association’s executive committee. Rolfes got to attend Game 4 of the 2024 WNBA finals in Minnesota and have dinner with the players’ families. Rolfes says Napheesa is just the same as when he coached her in high school.
Napheesa, along with star New York Liberty power forward Breanna Stewart (and fellow UConn alumna), are co-founders of a new professional women’s league named Unrivaled. This new league will allow female players to earn money in the offseason while being able to stay in the United States rather than travel abroad.
“It’s something that’s definitely outside the box,” Rolfes says. “For her and so many good players, they’ve traditionally had to spend their offseason overseas playing to continue to make money throughout the year. This new league allows Napheesa and a lot of the other star players to stay in the States and do what they love to do. Their window of time playing is so short that they have to maximize it. Unrivaled provides WNBA players the opportunity to continue playing and earning money during the offseason while staying closer to home.”
Unrivaled features a 3 v 3 concept on a shorter, but still full, court. Focusing on skill, it provides an action-packed format with a roster of household WNBA names. Rolfes believes it will quickly become a fan and spectator favorite. And after next year, when other players’ overseas contracts end, Napheesa says that Unrivaled will feature even more WNBA stars.
“It really is an awesome concept,” Rolfes says. “I had the opportunity to go and watch some of our players from Incarnate
Word Academy test the rules, theory, and concepts of the Unrivaled 3 vs. 3 format. The players absolutely loved it, and as a spectator, it was so much fun to watch. The full but shorter court, with fewer players, forces players to focus on movement, ball skills and quick decision-making. I really expect that people will want to follow the league and enjoy watching it, especially with the caliber of the players involved. With the career numbers Napheesa has put up in the last couple of years, she has built quite the following, so other WNBA stars were ready to join her in doing this rather than traveling overseas to play. And next year is looking to be even bigger with additional WNBA participants.”
Rolfes hesitated when asked about Napheesa’s most significant accomplishment at Incarnate Word Academy.
“There’s just so much she accomplished that you can’t pinpoint one thing,” he said. “I mean, she was a McDonald’s All-American, the Gatorade Player of the Year, the Jordan Brand All-American, and received many other awards. But Napheesa’s legacy and how she will forever be remembered is how she treated everyone on the team and around her. She’s one of the most humble people that you’ll ever meet. She’s such an amazing person, and everyone loves her. It’s very easy to always root for a person like Napheesa. She is an example of how we should all be.” sl
Photographer Andy Katz and his son, winemaker Jesse Katz, embrace l'art de vivre through unique expressions of their craft.
"It's a keeper!" globetrotting photographer Andy Katz said he'd exclaim when he was confident he'd captured "the shot." During a recent conversation amid the Farrow Ranch vineyard in California's Alexander Valley in Sonoma County, he joked that the phrase also applies to the day his son Jesse was born. Well before Jesse marked his first trip around the sun, he accompanied his father on an assignment in Japan, the first of many adventures, which included a near-death experience with a charging rhino in Africa and quite a bit of time galivanting through some of the world's most famous vineyards. The latter imprinted upon young Jesse a fascination with wine and, more importantly, the soil that imparts "good juice" with its unique characteristics.
As an eight-year-old, Andy recalls flipping through a book of black-and-white portraits by Yousuf Karsh and deciding at that moment that he wanted to be a photographer. In the 1960s, an early assignment sent him around the globe without a clear itinerary and per diem that today would barely cover your morning latte. Listening to Andy tell it, the adventure seems both intoxicating and wholly unfathomable in today's hyper-connected world. His skill as a raconteur is as evocative as his photography, an oeuvre encompassing
more than 14 coffee table books (a dozen of which are devoted to wine), record albums cover for the likes of the Doobie Brothers and Dan Fogelberg, and features in museums and galleries worldwide. In 2005, he became Sony's First Artisan of Imagery. "Beauty is everywhere; you just have to wait for the right light," said Andy.
Similarly, Jesse recalls being laser-focused on becoming a winemaker, a fascination stretching back to an idyllic childhood sprinting through and occasionally sleeping amid vineyards in Europe and South America. Seeing a vineyard through his father's expertly focused lens and later being offered a taste of wine from the same site gifted him a unique ability to communicate terroir.
After graduating from CSU-Fresno, Jesse worked in the cellar and vineyards at Bodega Noemia in Patagonia, Argentina, whose oldest malbec vines were planted in the 1930s. Their lowtech approach to the craft included destemming grapes by hand and stomping them à la I Love Lucy. Jesse went on to apprentice at Bordeaux's Pétrus and Napa's Screaming Eagle before becoming America's youngest head winemaker at 25 with Lancaster Estate and Roth Winery in Sonoma County, where he was given the opportunity to design a winery from the ground up.
Jesse launched Aperture Cellars (aperture-cellars.com) in 2009, initially purchasing top-tier grapes from the hills of Sonoma. In 2012, he also created a cult wine project called Devil Proof, focusing on single-site, dry-farmed malbec and malbec blends. After nearly instant and ongoing acclaim for his releases, in 2016, Jesse decided to build his own winery, selecting Sonoma's top AVA's for what he saw as its potential to be a vaunted cabernet region but in slightly cooler areas for the varietal. An ulcer-inducing bank loan enabled the purchase of a 75-acre vineyard and another 40 acres for the winery complex and estate vineyard (including a block of vines planted in 1912) located 10 minutes outside the charming town of Healdsburg.
Touring the 24,000-square-foot winery complex with Jesse and Hillary Sjolund, Aperture and Devil Proof's Director of Winemaking, I was struck by its lab-like cleanliness and eyepopping array of high-tech tools (one of the most advanced in the United States). Starting with a very advanced de-stemmer, the grapes move on to an optical sorter that captures a whopping 1200 photos-per-second of the grapes while infrared technology identifies fruit that's been sunburned or otherwise damaged and kicks it out so that only the best grapes make the journey to the fermentation tanks via a pump that's so gentle it is the same type used to relocate fish from one pond to another in nurseries. The tricked-out tanks boast automated pump-overs, temperature
control, and oxygen injection, all of which can be controlled via laptop or smartphone. In addition to creating wines with finesse and mouthfeel, the big-ticket investment in technology has been offset by reduced staff overhead and significant savings on water usage (ninety-eight percent of the water used by the winery is recycled for use in irrigation and landscaping).
While the technology minimizes human error and increases efficiency, it's still up to the winemaker's expertise to create something special with the raw materials. "It's our purpose to express the uniqueness of each vineyard in the glass," said Hillary. Jesse singled out Aperture's ability to do automatic pumpovers, which has taken their creativity to another level because the frequency (as much as one minute every hour for the first five days) would have been impossible to do manually. "We are textural winemakers," said Jesse, adding that he and Hillary are constant collaborators, tasting daily and making subtle tweaks to get the desired outcomes.
Over a few days, what I found endearing about Jesse was his quiet confidence and lack of wine snobbery. Speaking to our small group with widely varying wine expertise, he could switch on a dime from drilling down into the minutia of soil types to using a sports metaphor to help explain Aperture's approach, remarking, "It's no different than training at an optimal level to get each muscle fiber to fire optimally."
Today, Aperture's vineyard holdings encompass over 200 acres in six distinct vineyards. Jesse first visited one of these, Farrow Ranch, a decade before purchasing it as he was invited to dinner there by a family friend. Accessed at the end of a narrow dirt road, the Farrow home sat at the bottom of a bowl-like valley where the open trellis system of vines gave way to dense forest.
Walking the site, Jesse recognized a block of dry-farmed malbec thriving in volcanic soil. The site is the source of Devil Proof's Farrow Ranch Malbec; Jesse's malbec, now grown on three distinct sites, has garnered the lion's share of his 19 100-point scores from five different wine critics. I am by no means an oenophile, but even as an amateur, my first sip of Devil Proof was eye-popping for its nuanced layers of aromas, flavors, and mouthfeel.
The Devil Proof moniker and the unique black-and-white image on the label derive from a father-and-son trip to Cuba, where Andy captured the now iconic photograph of a Cuban woman languidly smoking a cigar. Jesse recounts being told by the locals, "'If you live well and drink well, the devil can't get ya.' Like, you're devil-proof." Only around 1,000 cases of Devil Proof are made in the years the crop is deemed worthy, and the bottles
are quickly snapped up by those who sign up for an allocation notice at devilproofvineyards.com. Sold in sets of three, the presentation case is designed to mimic a cigar box Jesse had as a child and used to store his prized collection of coins picked up around the world.
"Jesse can recall the contours of a vineyard like a parent knows their child's face," said Andy. At Farrow Ranch alone, Jesse has dug 86 soil pits to create a detailed soil map that helps guide decisionmaking. Working with his mentor and consulting viticulturist Phil Freese, Jesse utilizes technology in the vineyards, employing NDVI imagery analysis to measure plant vigor and biomass vine by vine and taking appropriate actions to strengthen crops, ward off diseases, or determine watering and fertilization schedules.
While I can appreciate a good vintage, I love the why behind a wine even more, and Aperture is Jesse's heartwarming homage to his father and their enduring bond. The centerpiece of the guest experience is an architecturally stunning tasting room designed by architect Juancarlos Fernandez with a central ceiling feature designed to look like the aperture of a camera lens. Inside the tasting room, the walls are adorned with Andy's large
format photos. The winery frequently holds immersive sensory experiences with local chefs that transcend the act of sipping by celebrating the delicious bounty of Sonoma County.
Jesse is a consulting winemaker for a handful of handpicked clients, including the Montage Healdsburg (montage. com/Healdsburg), a luxury resort that opened in January 2021. Before they broke ground on a single guest room on the 258acre property, Katz "cherry-picked" 15.5 acres to plant vineyards bearing malbec, merlot, petite verdot, cabernet franc, cabernet sauvignon and sauvignon blanc grapes that are used to create private label releases. Many of the 130 guest bungalows at the Montage Healdsburg, an event space, and a yoga lawn are integrated into areas of super-high-density vine plantings. These vines are carefully tended to by hand as heavy machinery would disrupt the resort's bucolic atmosphere. "From the outset, we were aligned in our desire to do nothing but the best, and the ownership listened to all of my crazy ideas," Jesse recounted.
In 2024, the Montage Healdsburg launched Surveyor, their private estate-bottled wine. The inaugural release, available exclusively to guests and residents of Montage Healdsburg
(montageresidenceshealdsburg.com), consists of a 2021 cabernet sauvignon and a 2021 sauvignon blanc, both harvested from Montage Healdsburg's estate vineyard and bottled at Aperture.
If you want to fully immerse yourself in Sonoma's wine culture during harvest, book a facial or body scrub at the Montage's 11,500-square-foot spa and try to resist the temptation to taste tantalizingly aromatic products made from grape skins and seeds.
One can draw parallels between photography and winemaking: a dedication to the craft, a pursuit of excellence, tempered hubris and obsession, and heaps of patience. Both Andy and Jesse lean into technology as a tool to augment their skills rather than as a crutch to mask shortcomings. Jesse said that his dad doesn't own Photoshop in the same way he hasn't acidified, fined, or filtered any of his red wines. Continuing that train of thought, Andy quickly jumps in, adding, "You can't do anything good by taking shortcuts" and "You can't rely on your last success for lasting happiness." However, as a proud father, he also emphatically proclaims that Jesse can make good wine in his sleep. And, after spending a few days with both Andy and Jesse, I'm reminded that healthy roots are essential to more than just winemaking. sl
Compiled by Bridget Williams
A few of our favorite men’s jewelry pieces, from classically elegant to edgy
Lagos diamond tag amulet ($1,990). Available through Richter & Phillips Jewelers in Cincinnati, Diamond Cellar in Nashville, Clarkson Jewelers in St. Louis and lagos.com. Chopard Ice Cube pendant in ethical rose gold ($6,460). Available through Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis and chopard.com. Effy Jewelry men’s 925 sterling silver blue sapphire pendant ($1,256; effyjewelry.com). Walters Faith Quentin black gold and black diamond band ($4,890; waltersfaith.com). Michael M Tetra diamond band ($4,350). Available through Richter & Phillips Jewelers in Cincinnati and michaelm.com. Krik Kara Scroll Wheat engraved wedding band ($3,890). Available through Richter & Phillips Jewelers in Cincinnati, Genesis Diamonds in Nashville and kirkkara.com. David Yurman Streamline two-row band ring in titanium with black diamonds ($1,950). Available through Moyer Fine Jewelers and Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, Davis Jewelers in Louisville and davidyurman.com. Pamela Love’s Alev bracelet ($240), is part of a collaborative collection with Turquoise Mountain to create a series of handcrafted jewelry made by Afghan artisans (pamelalove.com). Patcharavipa Allumette bracelet ($5,850; patcharavipa.com). Grown Brilliance Cuban link bracelet ($2,225; grownbrilliance.com). Chris Ploof Designs Damascus cuff (chrisploof.com). Verraggio two-tone gold and diamond bracelet. Available through Genesis Diamonds in Nashville and verragio.com. Seal & Scribe hand engraved cufflinks ($5,000; sealandscribe.com). Aurelia Demark single Lion cufflink ($185; aureliademark.com). LÖF Fritz bangle ($5,000; lofjewellery.com). Luis Morais gold Maille bracelet
Opposite page: Pieces from VRAM’s new men’s jewelry collection, priced from $1,300 (vramjewelry.com)
An alternative to day-tripping, AMERON Neuschwanstein Alpsee Resort & Spa offers a more leisurely and luxurious way to experience a storybook Bavarian village with two castles.
Written by Bridget Williams / Photos of AMERON Neuschwanstein Alpsee Resort & Spa by Wolfgang Stahr
Nestled into an alpine valley with complementary castles perched atop Lake Alpsee on opposing hillsides, it's hard to imagine a more storybook setting than the Bavarian town of Schwangau near Füssen in Allgäu. Annually, nearly two million visitors queue up to peek at the ornately furnished state rooms of Hohenschwangau Castle (hohenschwangau.de/en) and a small portion of Neuschwanstein Castle (neuschwanstein.de/englisch/ tourist), built by the famously eccentric King Ludwig II of Bavaria between the years of 1869 and 1884. Most visitors make a quick in-and-out stop in the village, which is a shame as they miss the opportunity to experience the beauty of this little hamlet after the castles close and the crowds disperse.
In the shadow of the castles and enveloped by the Allgäu Alps on the banks of Lake Alpsee, the 4-star AMERON Neuschwanstein Alpsee Resort & Spa (ameroncollection.com/en/neuschwansteinalpsee-resort-spa), part of the Althoff Hotels family, is a full-service resort opened in 2019. The sprawling property represents a
masterclass in seamlessly integrating old and new. A trio of listed historic buildings — Alpenrose, Jägerhaus, and Schlosshotel Lisl—are joined by the newly built Galeria and Seehaus wings to comprise 136 rooms and junior suites, conference and event facilities, an extensive spa and fitness center overlooking the lake, several restaurants, and the Museum of the Bavarian Kings (the former site of a grand hotel). The rhythm of the disparate elements comes together in an aesthetic harmony that the Europeans know how to intuitively orchestrate flawlessly.
The contemporary lobby's stone floors recall the surrounding mountaintops' exposed granite peaks. At the center of the sprawling space, a seating area with plush velvet upholstery welcomes guests to relax in front of the fireplace. In keeping with the AMERON brand's commitment to uniqueness, guest rooms in each building present distinct personalities. Guests lodged in the listed historic buildings experience romantic, fairy-tale interiors complete with canopied beds, period-correct antiques, print-on-print wallpaper, and ornate drapery.
4
The transition from old to new takes place via underground passageways and glass-covered pathways, AMERON's interpretation of a wormhole. In contrast to the fussiness of a bygone era, the clean lines of the new resort buildings would undoubtedly appease the aesthetics of legendary avant-garde German architects Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Walter Gropius. Here, the guest rooms bend towards the tenets of Bauhaus interior design: functionality, simplicity, and craftsmanship.
Continuity of contrasts extends to the culinary offerings with a host of unique gastronomic concepts. Seasonally inspired contemporary Bavarian alpine cuisine procured from local producers is available at Lisl Restaurant, serving a buffet-style breakfast and fine dining in the evening.
Schloss Bräustüber delivers an authentic German beer garden experience with meats, sausages, and cheeses originating from regional butchers and cheesemakers. Go all-in on authenticity by washing down your brezel with a freshly tapped pilsner from the town's King Ludwig Brewery. Fun fact: The first Oktoberfest in Munich on October 12, 1810, commemorated the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig (later King Ludwig I, the grandfather of Ludwig II) to Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen.
Open seasonally, the terrace of Alpenrose am Se is the ideal place to enjoy a cocktail or a signature "King Ludwig
Glace Royale" sweet treat while surveying the glassy waters of Lake Alpsee. Ludwig Bar is a comfortable gathering place for a regionally inspired craft cocktail or light meal that combines international influence with regional ingredients and specialties.
After a day of exploring castles or hiking the trails accessed via cable car atop Tegelberg mountain (tegelbergbahn.de/en), the resort's 4 Elements spa complex, encompassing an indoor pool, Finnish and bio-saunas, experiential showers, ice fountain, quiet lounge areas, and a well-equipped fitness center, is an ideal place to unwind. Face and body treatments incorporate proprietary ARAMO ELIXIR anti-aging products.
An ideal visual representation of words like "idyllic" and "picturesque," it's easy to see why the region was the chosen home of Bavarian kings. While Hohenschwangau Castle was merely the summer residence of Maximillian II (and much smaller inside that it appears from its hilltop perch), his son Ludwig II, whose known eccentricities are still fascinating today, created his fantasy vision of an impenetrable year-round fortress based on Christian kingship in the Middle Ages as his power and relevance as a monarch crumbled beneath him. History lovers will relish in the luxury of time afforded by a stay at AMERON Neuschwanstein Alpsee Resort & Spa to do a deep dive into the short but fascinating history of the Kingdom of Bavaria and the House of Wittelsbach, one of the oldest dynasties in Europe. sl
Compiled by Bridget Williams
Fine jewelry that’s twice as nice with a two-stone design.
Akaila Reid stud earrings ($1,900; akailareid.com). Alison Lou Jewelry Double Cocktail drop earrings ($3,750; alisonlou.com). Marie Mas Aura ring ($4,937; mariemas.com/en-us). Mara Hotung Jewels peridot and tourmaline ring ($9,786; gemvoyager.com). Tanya Farah Jasmine Bloom bypass hoop earrings ($7,600; tanyafarah.com). Guita M lapis lazuli and opal drop earrings ($6,000; guitam-jewelry.com). MATEO pearl and diamond cluster drop earrings ($9,880; mateonewyork.com). Jacquie Aiche pavé diamond teardrop + baguette pink tourmaline open ring ($12,100; jacquieaiche.com). Clara Chehab Sienne Elemental stud earrings ($1,890; clarachehab.com). İTÄ Txirimiri Danza ring ($4,500; Opposite page: "In Reverse" sunstone & Tahitian natural color cultured pearl earrings from Assael ($44,000). Available through Diamond Cellar in Nashville and assael. com. Boochier Jewelers Lucky Pup necklace with diamond and sapphire accents ($3,590; boochier.com). Jonne Amaya ear climber ($1,200; jonneamaya.coom). Aurelia Demark small Fleur Toi Et Moi ring ($4,285; aureliademark.com). Mason and Brooks Fine Jewelry Tortuga pendant ($2,050; masonandbrooks.com). Suzanne Kalan one-of-a-kind Toi et Moi emerald and double baguette diamond ring ($12, 800; suzannekalan.com).
For over a century, Hôtel Plaza Athénée has remained at the pinnacle of luxury hotels in Paris.
Written by Bridget Williams
One can imagine the spirits of past Paris' haute couturiers as gossamer threads, gently tugging at the hearts and pocketbooks of contemporary fashionistas, drawing them en masse to the storied hôtel particuliers lining Avenue Montaigne in the 8th arrondissement. From the balcony of my Prestige Suite in the Hôtel Plaza Athénée (dorchestercollection.com/paris/hotel-plaza-Athenee), I sipped a latte from a delicate bespoke Jaune de Chrome porcelain teacup while my eyes slowly surveyed the scene like an iPhone camera’s Pano mode.
The early morning sun casts a painterly, dappled glow, making it easy to see why the City of Lights has seduced creative types for centuries. I first focus on the Eiffel Tower, its steel skeleton serving as a backdrop for the legendary hotel's iconic red awnings and window boxes laden with similarly hued geraniums from spring until late summer. My gaze casts down to the lobby's revolving door, where the omnipresent assemblage of some of the world's most covetable supercars attracts a similarly perennial gaggle of oglers. Craning my neck a bit, I can see eager early risers already queuing outside Dior (30 Avenue Montaigne), keen to be first in the door to soak up the fashionable fantasy offered by the ethereal five-floor showroom, Christian Dior's first boutique, which reopened in 2022 after two years of construction.
Sufficiently caffeinated, I head back into the opulence of my temporary abode, opulently outfitted in a manner that fully bolsters the Francophile fantasy, with sumptuous fabrics and furnishings punctuated with French marquetry and ormolu selected by designer Marie-José Pommereau.
Next, I head off to the gym, part of the world's first Diorbranded spa when it opened in 2008, where I almost felt bad for sweating on the supremely chic Dior-branded yoga mats, thinking they'd look just as good mounted on the wall as art. The recently refreshed labyrinth-like spa, which reopened in 2023 in a soothing cream and taupe colorway with discreet gold accents, now boasts larger treatment rooms, including one for couples and a designated beauty room for hair and makeup services. The Dior Light Suite features a light therapy booth, the first in Europe, which employs LED lights scattered across the ceiling to harness the sun's power to influence the body's circadian and chronobiological rhythms response to help fight stress, combat jet lag and increase energy.
My last stay at Hôtel Plaza Athénée was close to 15 years ago. Upon entering the circular lobby, the intoxicating scent of fresh flowers emanating from arrangements in cone-shaped vessels affixed to the marble columns created a moment of déjà vu and a pleasant realization that while much has changed, what makes the property iconic hasn't. I like to imagine that Christian Dior would feel the same. Long before the Dior name became synonymous with luxury fashion, he was purported to have strolled along Avenue Montaigne, stopping in front of Hôtel Plaza Athénée and pledging to himself that when he launched his own house, it would be located on this celebrated stretch of pavement. In fact, Dior presented his inaugural collection at the Hôtel in 1947.
There are two distinct personalities within the eight-floor hotel. Floors one through six are outfitted in Haussmannian style. In September, the property revealed 49 renovated rooms by acclaimed French interior design firm Moinard Bétaille on its fifth and sixth floors, including the legendary Royal Suite. Designed to resemble true Parisian apartments, each room and suite offer a different layout, ensuring no two rooms are alike. Six new color palettes have been designed to bring a touch of freshness and softness to the property amidst its 18th-century backdrop. The Virginia creeper plant that adorns the façade of the hotel's iconic interior courtyard –La Cour Jardin – appears throughout the design, from moldings and mosaics to the embroidery of cushions, carpets and moiré silks.
In contrast, guestrooms on floors seven and eight were created from reconfigured staff quarters fifty years ago in a distinct Art Deco style and refreshed during COVID by Parisian duo Bruno Moinard and Claire Bétaille. Blond and whited solid oak is punctuated with pops of "Plaza Red." Each guest room is uniquely sized, so furniture is similarly styled but bespoke to remain proportionally pleasing. A curated selection of coffee table books and framed fashion photos from vaunted photographers lend an apartment-like feeling to the intimately sized rooms. Luxurious grey-white marble bathrooms with graphic veining are an amenity shared with the more traditional accommodations.
Arguably, the most exciting change in recent years has occurred in the culinary sector. The COVID closure of 2020 prompted management to rethink their entire food and beverage program. After a 22-year run with Alain Ducasse at the helm in the kitchen, Hôtel Plaza Athénée created waves when they decided to roll the dice
on Jean Imbert, a 42-year-old Top Chef France winner who'd yet to earn a star. Given Imbert's experience working at hotspots in Miami and St. Tropez and celebrity clientele that includes Pharrell and Beyoncé, Justine Klar, Communications Manager at Plaza Athénée, said that in addition to Imbert's culinary prowess, hotel management appreciated the chef's VIP connections in the influencer age.
Rather than follow in the footsteps of Ducasse, Imbert chose to boldly forge his own path, working in a methodical fashion to completely overhaul all the restaurants, most dramatically the gastronomic one, which was reborn in an avant-garde style as Jean Imbert au Plaza Athénée. The theatrically designed experience begins with the decor. If you ever wanted to know what it was like to dine at the Court of Versailles, reserve one of the 16 coveted seats at the room's central marble table, where you will experience traditional cuisine served with succinct choreography. Guests are privy to ample interaction with chef Imbert, who purposefully leaves a little ambiguity on the menu descriptions for an element of surprise.
The Plaza Athénée's garden restaurant menu is now appropriately veggie-forward with a Mediterranean bent. Throughout the year, the space evolves to host seasonal events championed by chef Imbert, including an open-air summer cinema series with a corresponding menu inspired by a given film. In winter, an alpine chalet with a long table for 20 is erected alongside the garden's La Cour Jardin ice rink, where a lucky few can partake of fondue and Champagne. Fans of Emily in Paris will recognize the scene from the Agence Grateau holiday party in the second part of Season 4, proof positive that the quest for relevancy never rests.
An Art Deco masterpiece opened in 1936, Le Relais at Hôtel
Plaza Athénée is one of the most famous brasseries in Paris. The décor, which includes a chandelier classified as a monument by the French government, derives inspiration from the liner SS Normandie. We spent a lingering lunch surrounded by the power suit set, sampling cuisine with a pronounced sense of tradition, including Imbert's "My Grandmother's Terrine. I indulged in beef tartare, prepared tableside, accompanied by Pont Neuf potatoes, thick-cut fries that get their moniker from the city's oldest bridge, where pommes frites were once sold.
For generations, La Galerie, open from breakfast until late night, has served as the hotel's beating heart and is where the pulse of fashion week is taken outside the runway. However, I preferred the quiet of the afternoon, where the leisurely lull is accompanied by a harpist.
Time didn't permit a nightcap at Le Bar, but a daytime peek inside, revealing original wood paneling contrasted with a contemporary haute couture-inspired lighting installation and a bar resembling an ice sculpture, was enough to envision why there's almost always a line to get in on the weekends. The allure is long-standing: Christian Dior's iconic New Look Bar jacket is said to have been inspired by the space. A partnership with Dom Perignon provides guests access to rare bottles, which Klar described as "the price of a little apartment in Paris." During the day, Terrace Montaigne restaurant in front of Le Bar is the place to be for people watching and partaking of a new seafood, oyster bar and Champagne experience.
As part of The Dorchester Collection, guests of Hôtel Plaza Athénée gain entrée into an exclusive array of distinct properties lined by an unwavering commitment to quality at all touchpoints. Equally iconic, the Plaza's Parisian sister, Le Meurice (dorchestercollection.com/paris/le-Meurice), was the city's first palace hotel when it opened opposite the Tuilleries gardens in the 1st arrondissement. The opulent décor is wonderfully eccentric; over the years, architect Jean-Loup Roubert, interior designer Charles Jouffre, designer Philippe Starck, and his daughter, visual artist Ara Starck, have lent their unique perspective to interiors that deftly meld classical and contemporary styles.
A gastronomic tour de force, Restaurant le Meurice Alain Ducasse bears 2 Michelin stars for haute cuisine inspired by authentic dishes served in a dining room reminiscent of the sumptuous Salon de la Paix at the Palace of Versailles. I was equally enamored of the dramatic and lively Dalí-inspired and Philippe Starck-designed environs at Restaurant Le Dalí, a fitting backdrop for a celebration of local and seasonal French cuisine.
Although it's often said that "what's old is new again," the Hôtel Plaza Athénée has never fallen out of fashion, drawing in a steady stream of luminaries like moths to a flame since it opened in 1913. Never willing to rest on its gilded laurels in a quest to meet its motto as "The palace of tomorrow," Hôtel Plaza Athénée continually reinvests in enhancing the guest experience and elevating the property's online allure with a savviness that would make Emily Cooper proud. sl
Compiled by Colin Dennis
can positively impact sleep quality by helping regulate body temperature, promoting relaxation through comfort, and signaling to the brain that it's time to wind down, ultimately leading to easier sleep onset and better sleep quality. Opting for breathable materials like cotton, bamboo, or silk is generally recommended over synthetic fabrics that can trap heat and moisture. Dandy paisley silk pajamas from Yves Delorme ($795; usa.yvesdelorme.com).
Countless studies have shown that a sauna’s dry heat promotes sweating, improves circulation and cardiovascular health, and enhances relaxation, which may translate to better sleep. From ThermaSol, the Ventura indoor sauna cabin features curved, waterfall-like benches and a veneered ash interior. A silk-printed glass wall allows natural light to filter through (thermasol.com).
The SOPHIA Fitness Mobile Set from PENT is designed to seamlessly blend style and functionality. Built to order, the setup can encompass dumbbells, kettlebells, compact fitness accessories, exercise mats, and fitness balls ($11,885; pentfitness.com).
Real-time health data is always in reach with the Samsung Galaxy ring (shown in titanium silver). A trio of sensors offer a discreet way to monitor health metrics like heart rate, sleep patterns, and activity levels ($399; samsung.com).
It may seem that a soak in frigid water may not be good for you. Still, studies have shown otherwise, with benefits from reducing inflammation to improving mood. Sun Home Cold Plunge Pro ($9,699; sunhomesaunas.com).
Red light therapy uses specific wavelengths of light thought to stimulate energy production in the cells and reduce inflammation. From Mito Red, the patent-pending MitoADAPT™ Mega 3.0 Series with dual chip multi-wavelength design provides eleven different possible modes, allowing users to determine which combinations of wavelengths are having the most significant impact on helping them reach their goals ($4,999; mitoredlight.com).
Travel has been linked to stress reduction and can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Studies have shown that resveratrol, wine’s “super ingredient,” may lower blood pressure, control cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and even boost brain power. Combine the benefits of both at SB Winemaker’s House & Spa Suites, the luxury boutique hotel by Argentina’s first female winemaker, Susana Balbo, and her daughter, Ana Lovagilo Balbo. Their new Wine Immersion Program offers a complete sensory journey through a comprehensive exploration of Mendoza’s rich wine culture through the legacy and insights of the Susana Balbo family. From private winemaking expeditions—featuring behind-thescenes visits to some of the region’s top wineries—to in-suite wine-based wellness treatments, tastings in the hotel’s intimate tasting room, and an aromatic evening turn-down service in iconic wine egg tub, every detail is designed to celebrate the finest of Mendoza’s wine world within SB Winemaker’s House’s elegant setting (rates start at $1,663 per night base on double occupancy; susanabalbohotels.com).
Fitness boxing is a high-intensity workout that engages the aerobic and anaerobic systems, torching as many as 800 calories an hour, depending on intensity. Modest Vintage Player limited edition floral leather heavy punching bag ($399), strap-up boxing gloves ($135), and hand wraps ($35; modestvintageplayer.com).
A symbol of wealth and status in ancient times, ear cuffs have newfound popularity, and the genderless jewelry is perfect for those who don’t want the long-term commitment of a piercing. Compiled by Bridget Williams
This page, clockwise from top left: Mazarin Eboris ear cllip ($1,320; mazarin-paris.com). Tiffany T1 ear cuff in rose gold with diamonds ($9,000; tiffany.com). Guzema Chainfall ear cuff ($1,450; guzema.com). Patcharavipa Lune Sucré ear cuff ($5,240; patcharavipa.com). MACADAM Quadra open enamel ear cuff ($3,750; voilamacadam.com). Jacquie Aiche Sophia teardrop shaker ear cuff ($4,125; jacquieaiche.com). De Beers white gold Dewdrop ear cuff ($2,100; debeers.com). Bondeye Jewelry Wave ear cuff ($600; bondeyejewelry.com). Type Jewelry LEGGO 2.0 diamond ear cuff ($1,600; typejewelry.com). Anita Ko Cosmo ear cuff ($7,875; anitako.com). Nouvel Heritage VENDÔME double pearl ear cuff ($1,700). Available through ReisNichols in Indianapolis, Ylang-Ylang in St. Louis and us.nouvelheritage.com. Ippolita single pavé Squiggle ear cuff ($1,395). Available through Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis and ippolita.com. State Property Arcan Markeli triple ear cuff (thisisstateproperty.com). Shahla Karimi Le Corbusier Puff Set double ear cuff ($1,360; shahlakarimi.com).
A
two-week adventure through Spain and Portugal was nothing short of luxurious.
By Christy Marshall / Photography courtesy of Luxury Gold
I am a tour newbie.
Once decades ago, while living outside Glasgow, I schlepped to Paris with a slew of Scottish schoolteachers. They brought their own tea and marmalade. They got cranky. Frequently. The hotel was old... and cold. It was one of those okay-but-not-sogreat experiences. Except for a spectacular safari in Kenya, I've sidestepped group outings ever since.
Little did I know what an incredible difference tapping a company like Luxury Gold makes. The trip, titled "Spain and Portugal Travel in Style," involved visiting nine cities in two countries over 13 days.
It's not for the faint of heart.
But then again, when Luxury Gold is at the helm, stamina, not bravado, is the key. Several of the 22 others on this jaunt already knew. One couple was on their fifth Luxury Gold tour. Others had already taken the company's trips to Italy, Croatia, Poland, England, and Scotland. Before we packed our bags to go home, some signed up for a trip to Egypt.
But then again, what's not to love? You travel first class, you stay in five-star hotels, the food is divine, you get private tours of the sites and cities, and every possible detail is handled by the tour concierge.
Luxury Gold’s parent, The Travel Corporation, was founded in 1920 by hotelier and restauranteur, the late Stanley Tollman, and his wife, Bea, then living in the fishing village of Paternoster, South Africa. Last July, Travel Corporation, which now holds more than
40 travel and tourism brands and hotels, was purchased by Apollo Funds of New York.
The tour stands apart from others because of all the posh details: Being picked up by a driver in a black town car to go to the airport, then from the airport to the hotel and at the end, back to the airport and from the airport to my St. Louis bungalow. It's the luxury of having every reservation made, every room ready, of never hauling my luggage a step further than my hotel room door. No lines. Anywhere. Having proud local citizens give us either bus or walking tours (or a combination of both) at every destination. It's the ease of boarding a Mercedes version of a Greyhound bus, flitting you from one province, city, site, or even restaurant to the next.
At a time when international travel can be an unpleasant mixture of annoying and exhausting, all those little things add up to a lot.
The Luxury Gold approach offers total immersion into the country and its culture. The kingpin of the trip is the guide or concierge, the magician who eases away any and all rough edges, never fusses, never gets rattled, keeps a sharp eye out for pickpockets, and both entertains and educates. For us, her name was Sonia Santos. With an almost encyclopedic knowledge of the regions, she kept us enthralled hour after literal hour with history, data, statistics, anecdotes, local eccentricities, and even gossip. I now know the average alcohol consumption, cigarette users, and age longevity for Spaniards. She educated us on all things both Spanish and Portuguese. A guide for the past 28 years, Sonia spent five years at the university earning her tourism degree.
The Luxury Gold goal is "to take you on a silver tray to the best places we can," Sonia said. The trip started in Barcelona. There, we explored all things Gaudi and toured the spiral-laden Sagrada Familia Cathedral, a Gaudi-inspired plan now (theoretically) being executed by (living) architects.
Next, we bussed to Valencia after stopping for a seven-course lunch at the Michelin-starred L'Antic Moli restaurant in La Galera, where we also consumed (a considerable amount of) locally harvested wine. One of the highlights of the drive through Valencia's Ciutat de les Arts Y De Las Ciències (City of Arts and Sciences), a collection of stunning buildings including the L'Oceanogràfic (the aquarium), The Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía (the opera house), Hemisferic (planetarium/IMAX theater), Museu de les Cièscience Principe Felipe (science museum), L'Agora (covered event space) designed by Félix Candela and Santiago Calatrava, the same architect who created the Oculus at Ground Zero in New York City.
In Granada, a guide led us patiently through the Alhambra Palace, built by the Moors in the 13th century. That night, we stayed at the Hospes Palacio de los Patos, a palace-turned-hotel that was truly palatial with its marble floors and wood-carved ceilings (all making it feel a bit like living in the Alhambra). With no rest for the weary, we were up and out the following morning to travel to Córdoba (where we walked through Mezquita and the Jewish Quarter) and then on to Seville, affectionately referred to as
the "Soul of Spain." That city may have been my absolute favorite. Aside from the gorgeous hotel, the Colón Gran Meliá, we spent hours exploring — and learning by doing. There was the flamenco lesson before sitting down for a performance by the professionals. The next day, we trekked to the local market (Mercado de Abastos), where we made the best paella I've ever eaten (and where the chef warned us against ever, ever adding chorizo to the dish).
On the eighth day, we crossed the border into Portugal. En route, we stopped for lunch to hear a performance of local men in a group singing Cante Alentejano. This genre of traditional twopart singing, originating in southern Portugal, has been added to UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Once in Lisbon (Sonia's hometown), we stayed at the Pousada de Lisboa and explored the city. A not-to-be-missed attraction was the Museu dos Coches (Coach Museum), which made me roll my eyes when I first read it. Foolish me. It was spectacular. Who knew coaches could be so intricately made, ostentatious, beautiful, and uncomfortable? But as wonderful as it was to see them, they came in a strong second to the Pastel de Nata. This Portuguese egg-yolk custard tart dates to before the 18th century and is basically a crème brûlée in a puff pastry made from a recipe held fast to the heart by the monks living atop a nearby hill. Afterward, we explored the National Palace of Queluz and headed out on our own to shop and dine.
Before ending our trip to Madrid, we stopped at Évora (another UNESCO World Heritage Site). We explored the town, toured the cathedral, and tasted Portuguese wines at the Herdade de Calada vineyard. We shopped and shopped, buying cork (purses, shoes, bottle stoppers), espadrilles, tiles, and jewelry, among other native wares. We spent the night in the simply spectacular Convento do Espinheiro, a 14th-century monastery and convent reborn as a gorgeous hotel that opened in the early 2000s.
Back on the bus, we stopped at Mérida to tour the Roman ruins before motoring on. From our base in Madrid at the Hotel Fénix Gran Meliá, we had two days to explore, walk through the city, tour the Prado Museum, explore the maze-like Old Town, and do more shopping, eating, and learning.
By the time we were done, we had traveled 1,700 miles on the bus. In a casual survey, everyone agreed that this trip (an $8,000plus investment) was worth every penny. Universal praise came for the hotels, the bus, and the various events, but especially for Sonia. Aside from her incredible knowledge, she always treated us with gifts. With a mischievous grin, she'd announce, "I have a little surprise for you," and follow it up with chocolate treats on the bus and local pastries. There was the night we met for champagne before dinner. There was Café Carajillo, a coffee drink with brandy
at one of the gas stops. She texted us her favorite sangria recipe. And then later for gazpacho. She led us to the Lisbon marketplace to join the locals for shots of cherry liqueur.
When one young couple from Perth asked to go to a vineyard to buy a bottle of the rare Spanish sherry PX (Petro Ximénez), Sonia made it happen, and they returned ecstatic with two — circa 1931. The simple fact that a hat owned by one of the women on the tour, which was lost at one site and still made its way back to her, is proof positive of Sonia's skills. As one earlier tour member mentioned, she felt protected with Sonia in charge. "She's like a German shepherd," the woman said. For a group with an age range spanning early 50s to mid-70s, the notion of someone else being totally in control and casting an ever-vigilant protective eye had a luxurious ring to it.
Built into the delight of the trip was the process of total strangers (from Australia, Canada, New York, California, Maryland, Virginia, Florida, and Texas) almost instantly morphing into an ad hoc group of friends. Every single person was funny, kind, welcoming, smart, interesting, and primed for an adventure.
"I know that I'm doing a good job when you are mingling," Sophia said. "You started as strangers — and you end as a family."
And I know now that group travel, with the right company in charge, is as good as gold. sl For more information visit luxurygold.com.
Rolls Royce remains relevant by keeping its white-gloved hands rooted in its heritage and a heavy foot on accelerating bespoke customization.
Written by Matthew Cottrell / Photos courtesy of Rolls-Royce
No one actually needs a one-off vibrant yellow Rolls Royce Spectre, or a Twilight Purple Cullinan II. Still, for those with the wherewithal to purchase one of these half-million-dollar-plus bespoke odes to luxury, it sure is fun to know that the sky is the limit for customization. As finely tailored as a Savile Row suit, throughout 2024, the British marque has paraded a bevy of its latest bespoke creations to events around the globe, most recently the Las Vegas Concours at Wynn Las Vegas. The resort owns the largest fleet of Rolls-Royce Phantoms in North America, with 10 extended-wheelbase Phantoms specifically designed for the resort to chauffeur its highest caliber guests.
Sophisticated Living was invited to be among a select group of media to experience a condensed version of Rolls-Royce's "White Glove" training program for the finest chauffeur education in driving and etiquette before getting behind the wheel of some of their latest creations in nearby Red Rock Canyon and the Vegas strip.
The tradition of having specially trained chauffeurs pilot RollsRoyce goes back nearly a century ago, when tycoons and maharajahs, who imported the cars from England, requested the company provide training for everything from personal presentation to the 'champagne stop,' a unique braking technique that halts the vehicle with such smoothness that nary a drop of bubbly is spilled by the passengers. While it's a bit of an anomaly in an era of autonomous cars, as we all know, one of the most self-indulgent ways to enjoy a RollsRoyce is from the backseat (and a full twenty percent of the 6,000 Rolls-Royce cars delivered annually are strictly chauffeur driven).
Witty Englishman Andi McCann leads the White Glove training program. After a brief history lesson, McCann provided
an abbreviated version of the invitation-only course Rolls-Royce offers to those who drive their VIP clientele, demonstrating how to move with grace and precision even before the engine starts. "Striving for perfection is a basic component of luxury," remarked McCann. "Everything you do must be sharp, effortless, professional, and safe." In short, we learned that a professionally trained Rolls-Royce chauffeur knows everything from the preferred elevation of their clients' headrests to knowing whether to use the vintage or non-vintage champagne setting in the backseat Coolbox.
After two hours of classwork, I found myself behind the wheel of the Rolls-Royce Spectre Semaphore. This one-of-one commission made its global debut at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, this past August. If the attention-grabbing yellow paint job wasn't arresting enough, the bonnet boasts a dramatic 'Marbled Paint Spill' graphic that took 160 hours to perfect. Keeping McCann's guidance top-of-mind, I ease myself behind the wheel, taking notice of the interior, a combination of Bespoke Lemon Yellow and Citrine Yellow on the seats, the Starlight doors, and above the instrument panel. It blends into the contrasting Grace White and Slate Grey hues with Lemon Yellow stitching. The SPIRIT operating system, an advanced digital interface that allows for extensive personalization within the car's interior, allowed the dials to complement the motor car's yellow colorway. I relax into the seat, gently grasp the wheel at 9- and 3-o'clock, and glide away, instantly acknowledging that even those who choose to be driven shouldn't deny themselves the pleasure of piloting this beauty for themselves on occasion.
Having familiarized myself with the nuances of the Spectre, it was time to try my skills with the Cullinan Black Badge Series II, the next iteration of the luxury SUV that brings the marque's hallmark "magic carpet ride" to any terrain. The acceleration of the 592 horsepower V12 is effortless and quiet, with the selfleveling air suspension constantly adjusting to road conditions to provide a remarkably smooth ride. The uniquely patterned cabin seating, mated to the Twilight Purple bespoke paint job, features a glass dashboard panel that uses backlighting through tiny pinpricks to create an ambient effect and a small vitrine with an illuminated Spirit of Ecstasy.
It is hard to imagine that Rolls-Royce could improve the legendary ride and comfort of its decadent automobiles, but the age of electric vehicles has done just that. The Spectre BEV exhibits a level of smoothness that flattened the legendary Red Rock roads, and the electric motor's instant torque leaves you wanting more. After all, who wouldn't want the finest, smoothest, and quietest automobile to also whisk you away at near sports car acceleration? Rolls has once again reset the standard for luxury automobiles.
Arrayed on the green of the Wynn Golf Club Like a peacock fanning out its train, Rolls-Royce's candy-colored lineup for the Las Vegas Concours also included a Brener Green Spectre, an Emerald Cullinan, and a Turchese Blue Spectre. The diversity of the display comes on the heels of the brand opening Private Office New York this past September in the Meatpacking District. It's the latest creative outpost in a network that already includes Shanghai, Dubai, Seoul, and the 'original' Private Office at the home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood. Available by appointment, it allows North American clients to interact directly with a US-based designer and specialist client experience manager. "Our investment in this office is in response to the steadily increasing engagement we see from our North American clients in this region, constantly challenging our designers to create and develop even more exciting and ambitious commissions," said Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.
“If you’re on time, you are late,” McCann stressed during our briefing. Staying ahead of the game has made Rolls-Royce a benchmark for luxury vehicles since Charles Rolls and Henry Royce established the brand in 1904. sl
By Alexa Beattie
You know Carla Starke’s the right one for the job; she blends right in. After 10 years as the Pulitzer Arts Foundation’s executive director, she and it have begun to blur. Her beautiful hair has turned the exact same color as the Pulitzer’s dove-gray walls and her affect is as peaceful as the stunning modernist space she moves through.
Starke came to the Pulitzer in 2015 from Creative Time, a nonprofit arts organization in New York, considered to be one of the most visionary and preeminent public art organizations in the county. Before that she served as assistant curator at The Museum of Modern Art in New York. She has a master’s degree in art history from Williams College and a bachelor’s degree from
Cornell University. She grew up in Maryland, on the outskirts of Washington, D.C. The Red Line was a lifeline, she said, shunting her at high speed to the museums and galleries of the nation’s capital on an extremely regular basis. “I saw things in those places that blew my mind,” Starke says.
The Pulitzer building blows the mind as well. You’ve never seen sunlight so large; never remarked – as you happen to on a drizzly Tuesday morning – how raindrops falling on water sort of look like music. In this place, that reflecting pool is a piece of art as well –galvanizing, never the same and indeed, changing with the weather. “Your body physically responds,” Starke says.
The Pulitzer was founded in 2001 by arts patron and philanthropist, Emily Rauh Pulitzer, who commissioned Japanese architect Tadao Ando to design the building. At the time, it was Ando’s first free-standing public commission in the U.S. (there are still only a handful; among them the Museum of Modern Art Fort Worth and Wrightwood 659 in Chicago). The one on our doorstep may be one of the most sublime spaces you’ve ever stepped foot in.
“In this cultural moment, it’s essential that we provide for joyfulness,” Starke says. “To [help people] see the world through different sets of eyes and imagine a better future.”
This kind of generosity is Starke’s hallmark. She is committed absolutely to sharing the wealth by bringing wonderful art to as many people as she can. That essentially generous habit of mind may have been most evident during the pandemic when Starke felt it was important to keep the Pulitzer’s doors open to small groups in 45-minute blocks. She says that as far as she knows, the Pulitzer was the only arts organization in the country to have done so.
“It was a gift. And a gift for my staff. Everyone was so isolated.”
That same spirit – of erring always toward beauty – means that Starke has a tendency to “color outside the lines.” In other words, she’s been involved in reclaiming little parcels of urban space and seeding them with native grasses and flowers. A grassy, Pulitzerowned lot across the street is now known as Park-Like – a one-acre rain garden of more than 100 varieties of native plants. And, a tumbledown, former Baptist church destroyed by fire, has risen again in a whole different way around the corner. The Pulitzer bought this
property in 2020, stabilized it and opened it to the public in 2022. The roof opens to the sky; there’s no door or floor or windows. But there’s a magical, unexpected beauty to the flowers and moss and to the blood-red vine that creeps up and over the stones.
“There is so much vacant land in St. Louis,” Starke says. “We are currently asking ourselves what it means to be a landowner in the city, and what does it mean to design for the ecological health of a neighborhood?”
Starke – dressed all in black – moves fluidly through this breathtaking space, talking with reverence about the art it contains. The Pulitzer is not a collecting museum but, rather, a temporary host for historic and contemporary artworks from around the world. There are a few permanent pieces requested by Emily Pulitzer to specifically complement the architecture. A two-tone wall sculpture by Ellsworth Kelly called “Blue Black” presides over the Main Gallery and a massive torqued steel spiral called “Joe” in the outdoor courtyard was made by Richard Serra in honor of Emily Pulitzer’s husband, Joseph Pulitzer, who died in 1993.
As a cultural and civic asset, the Pulitzer Foundation is also a space for other art forms, providing an array of free readings and lectures, dance, wellness workshops and musical performances.
Although Starke took a few life-drawing classes in high school, she said she has never thought of herself as an artist. But considering her resume, her finely-tuned sensibility to beautiful things, artistry, we wager, runs in her blood. sl
The current exhibit, Scott Burton: Shape Shift, runs through February 2.
Keith Alper’s 40 Years of Creative Leadership and Innovation
By Craig Kaminer / Photos by John Lore
Keith Alper always knew what he wanted to do when he grew up. When he was 10, he asked his parents for extension cords and Lite-Brites for the holidays because he wanted to make a stage, which he used for performances at the nursing homes in town and to produce back yard carnivals. That is where he learned, early on, his future was producing and creating. So much so that in high school, at Parkway Central, Alper helped run the AV and theatre departments.
Since then, Alper’s life reads like the ultimate entrepreneurial success story, shaped by relentless ambition, creativity and an unwavering commitment to his community. As his first company, CPG Agency, prepares to celebrate its 40th anniversary in 2025, Alper’s journey from a 15-year-old Six Flags summer employee to a pioneering entrepreneur and civic leader underscores his remarkable ability to turn vision into reality.
“As a summer employee at Six Flags, I was so hungry for what we did because I loved what I was doing,” Alper says. “I didn’t even care that I got paid. As a result, I got a lot of experience. I became a stage manager and then a seasonal supervisor. And once the marketing department would book an act, I’d get to – what they call – advance it. So, at the age of 16, I was talking with managers on the phone and negotiating with their management. I think on any given day Six Flags would do 50 shows. So, it was like working in an emergency room.” Alper recounts that his passion for crafting unique experiences would later intersect with another opportunity: creating a forward-thinking company that actualized his drive and creative spark. Those early professional experiences became the foundation for Alper’s approach to leadership, strategy and entrepreneurship. Upon graduating college, he ended up running the Show Operations department for Six Flags for a few years.
Alper’s journey at his first company, CPG Agency, was shared with his longtime business partner Steve Friedman, who recently retired after decades of collaboration. “Steve’s partnership was invaluable. Together, with a great team, we built a company that thrives on creativity, trust and innovation, always with the client in mind first, as well as our team.”
Alper’s visionary mindset did not stop there. In 2009, he launched The Nitrous Effect, a collective of seven specialized agencies that collaborate to provide clients with a one-stop shop for marketing, branding, experiential and events solutions. Each company within The Nitrous Effect excels in its niche, from branding to employee engagement, event production to content creation. The Nitrous Effect offers clients the ability to tackle complex challenges with seamless integration and is one of the largest St. Louis based and privately owned marketing services companies. The company’s client roster covers large Fortune 500 companies, including Southwest Airlines, Ulta Beauty and Carnival Corporation. It also works with numerous leading local businesses and nonprofits.
“The Nitrous Effect is about amplifying creativity and outcomes,” Alper explains. “It’s a model that breaks down silos and harnesses the power of diverse expertise to deliver extraordinary results.”
Alper explains, “The recession taught us a valuable lesson: to ensure survival and growth, diversification was essential. We weren’t just pivoting our services; we were redefining our future. Each new venture – whether it was UpBrand, Evntiv, Geniecast,
Vidzu or Gravity – they allowed us to specialize while still working collaboratively.”
Alper’s belief in the power of diverse skill sets and integrated collaboration has become a hallmark of his companies’ successes. This approach not only strengthened their business model but also deepened their client relationships. Throughout his career, Alper’s work has taken him across the globe, allowing him to create events and experiences for some of the world’s most prominent figures and brands. From Fortune 500 CEOs to cultural icons such as Rihanna and tech luminary Steve Wozniak, Alper and company have curated moments that bridge cultures and inspire audiences globally
“Traveling the world and working with incredible people have been one of the great privileges of my career,” he says. “These experiences shape your perspective and remind you of the universal power of storytelling. I like to say our businesses are in the business of winning hearts and minds.”
“In the early days of CPG, we didn’t know how to run a business. We thought we were pretty good producers. We didn’t know. But at that time, we were kind of doing everything. We weren’t in the meetings business back then. We did slideshows, then videos. We did a little bit of marketing,” Alper recalls. “We were figuring it out as we went, learning by doing and constantly evolving.”
Alper’s entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond his own businesses. In 1992, he was an early co-founder and board chair
of the global Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO), a peer-topeer network that now connects over 18,000 entrepreneur and CEO business leaders across more than 60 countries. EO fosters collaboration, learning and mentorship – principles that align closely with Alper’s philosophy.
Alper has also held global leadership roles in YPO (Young Presidents’ Organization) and has served on several boards, including Maryville University and the St. Louis Jewish Federation. His civic involvement underscores his commitment to creating a thriving community, both locally and globally.
“As an entrepreneur, you have a responsibility to give back and contribute to the greater good,” Alper asserts. “Whether it’s through mentorship, philanthropy or civic leadership, we all have the power to make an impact.”
Keith Alper’s journey has not been without challenges. Now a single father, he faced the devastating loss of his wife Nancy (who was 52) to cancer in 2017. Yet he has approached parenthood and life’s hurdles with the same determination and creativity that fuel his professional endeavors.
“Let’s not forget the big recession of 2008 and COVID19, which threatened businesses and the industry. I hope we never experience it again. But like everything in life, we probably will. Life is unpredictable, and resilience is key,” he reflects. “My children are my greatest inspiration and they remind me daily of the importance of love, family and living with purpose.”
In addition to his business achievements, Alper is a bestselling author and speaker. His book, From Like to Love, delves into the art of building deeper emotional connections in an increasingly digital world. Drawing on decades of experience, Alper outlines strategies for fostering genuine relationships for companies that go beyond superficial interactions.
“In today’s fast-paced and tech-driven environment, creating meaningful connections is more important than ever,” he emphasizes. “Whether in business or personal relationships, it’s about moving from transactional to transformational.”
As CPG Agency marks its 40th anniversary, Alper shows no signs of slowing down. With new ventures on the horizon and a continued focus on innovation, he remains committed to pushing boundaries and inspiring others. Whether it’s how to integrate AI or creating lasting in-person events.
“The past 40 years have been an incredible journey, but there’s so much more to do,” he says. “I’m excited for what’s ahead – for our companies, our community and the next generation of leaders.”
Keith Alper’s story is one of resilience, vision and unwavering dedication. As an entrepreneur, civic leader and single father, he has touched countless lives through his work and personal example. With every project, partnership and initiative, Alper continues to prove that the power of creativity, collaboration and connection can transform businesses, communities and lives. sl
In the last issue of Sophisticated Living St. Louis, we ran the winners and finalists of our first-ever SOPHI awards. Regrettably, errors were made. We would like to correct them here and now. Go to /issuu.com/sophisticatedliving/docs/slsl_n-d_2024?fr=xKAE9_xEREQ
On the cover and winner of Interior Design over 3,500 square feet (pg. 80) Ken Stückenschneider was the overall project designer to work on the residence from 2020 to 2023 completing the living room, study, billiard room, master bedroom and sitting room, while also updating and styling the dining room. He reupholstered the dining chairs in green leather, hung the artwork, adjusted paint colors and accessorized the room. Unbeknownst to Ken, in 2018 Jessie Miller of Jessie D. Miller Design designed the dining room flooring and picked the room’s furniture, in collaboration with the homeowners.
Bedroom The judges’ critiques were inadvertently included in the two finalists’ write-ups. (pg. 91).
Children’s Room The judges’ critiques were mistakenly reprinted on the first finalist write-up. (pg. 99).
Dining Room The finalist is Amy Studebaker, not Joni Spear (pg. 103).
Designer: Amy Studebaker, Amy Studebaker Design
Olive Avenue’s dining room exudes an approachable elegance that creates a comfortable, elevated experience for any dinner guest. Rich velvet tones anchor the space’s traditional interior when unexpectedly paired with a coral lacquered hutch and timeless brass lighting.
Living Room or Great Room (pg. 105) Finalist: Laurie LeBoeuf, Emily Castle Design; Schaub Projects Architecture & Design. The correct copy is: Recalling the golden days of Hollywood, this stunning lower-level bar and lounge pays homage to the glamorous interiors of the silver screen. Here, the stage is set with a curved
By Amy Studebaker
By Laurie LeBoeuf
bar clad in a fluted black tile, complemented by dark forest green walls and topped with a deco-inspired countertop and perforated brass lighting. Rich furnishings, like the bold black leather and brass barstools wrapping the bar, create a centerpiece worthy of everyone’s attention. Once an unused storage space, the design team worked together to create a layout separating a family friendly movie area, snack bar and bunk room with a hidden speakeasy lounge fit for entertaining. Challenged with creating a cohesive plan, all while designing a distinct separation between the desired usages of space, the designer set out to provide the homeowner with a new fully finished and functional lower-level for all ages to enjoy. The color palette, gold and glass sconces and velvet upholstered furniture help get the atmosphere just right. A custom upholstered banquette built by Jente Woodworking serves as a comfortable place to gather, accomplishing an end result that feels exactly like the Art Déco hideaway the homeowner desired.
Historical Preservation: Residential Caroline Kerckhoff’s name was inadvertently omitted among the first finalist winners for the cozy log cabin (pg. 119) Designer: Meghan Heeter; Castle Design; Caroline Kerckhoff, Stone Wall Cabinetry / Builder: Randy Renner Jr., Period Restoration. Few places feed the soul like a cozy log cabin in a picturesque lake setting. Calm and peaceful, this 100-acre country estate creates the idyllic weekend getaway for a busy, city-dwelling family of five. The property features two historic log cabin structures, dating back to the 1850s, that were skillfully combined into one expansive home.
Caroline Kerckhoff’s name was misspelled in the second Period Restoration fnalist entry (pg. 119).
21c was decked out in its finery and Tony Montano had outdone himself on the gorgeous centerpieces as the design community gathered for the first SOPHI Awards celebration. The magazine’s visionary award went to Steve Smith of the Lawrence Group. The individual design and architect awards were given out to some of the city’s finest talents. By the end of the evening, everyone was already talking about what will happen in 2025.
Utilize our experience in aircraft maintenance, operations, and sales. SpiritJets is your trusted partner for all your private jet needs. Whether you're considering purchasing a new jet or selling an existing one, our seasoned team of experts is here to guide you every step of the way.
Our deep industry knowledge and commitment to exceptional service ensure that your next aircraft transaction is smooth, efficient, and tailored to your specific requirements. From initial consultation to final acquisition or resale, you can rely on SpiritJets for a seamless, professional experience.
We look forward to helping you navigate your next aircraft transaction with confidence.
9 Missouri Emancipation and the St. Louis African American Community, Missouri Histor y Museum, mohistory.org
15-2/9
“Athena,” Emerson Studio Theatre, Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, repstl.org
17 Big Head Todd and the Monsters, the pageant.com
21-2/2 “Six,” fabulousfox.com
24 The Artist who Captured Eichmann, St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum, stlholocaustmuseum.org
25-26
Beethoven and Mahler, St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, stifeltheatre.com
5-3/2 “Clyde’s,” Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, repstl.org
6 Author Andrew Hahn for a presentation of his new book Mapping St. Louis about the city’s growth from the 1700s to now. Mohistory.org
7 Celebrating Saj Issa, Contemporary Art Museum, camstl.org 11-23 “Shucked” at the Fabulous Fox, fabulousfox.com
14 Valentine’s Day Dinner, Missouri Botanical Garden, mobot.org
15 Doorways Annual RED Gala, doorwayshousing.org
18 “Dancing with the Stars Live!” 2025 Tour, stifeltheatre.com
21 Saint Louis Art Museum Member Lecture by Becky Smith on Suzie Zuzek, slam.org
21-7/28 “Seeds: Containers of a World to Com,” Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum, kemperartmuseum.wustl.edu
21 Two Friends Presents Heatwave: The Tour
22 St. Louis Cardinals Spring Training v. Miami Marlins, cardinalsspringtraining.com
25 Michael Shannon & Jason Narducy with friends play R.E.M, the pageant.com
28 Trivia Gone Wild, St. Louis Zoo, stlzoo.org
28 Brian Stokes Mitchell, “Lift Every Voice feat” with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, stifeltheatre.com
Founded in 1981, the St. Andrew’s Charitable Foundation mission is to improve the quality of life for seniors-inneed through reliable and compassionate care. The 20th Annual Ageless Remarkable Saint Louisans Gala was held on September 28 at the Hilton St. Louis Frontenac to honor 12 remarkable individuals, ages 70 and older, who are making a positive impact through volunteer work, philanthropy, career and contributions. Board members Natasha Hrycauk and Melissa Jones co-chaired the event and Dan Gray emceed. The Champion for Seniors award was presented to Lawrence Group and the Dedication to Seniors award honored Laura McBride, a longstanding board member. Also in attendance was Dr. Blanche Touhill, from the 2003 inaugural class.
by Lucas Peterson
The St. Louis County Library Foundation hosted its annual gala, Casino Royale: All In for the Mission, on Saturday, October 5, at the new Clark Family Branch. One hundred twenty-seven people attended the event, which raised over $200,000 for the Foundation’s literacy programs and community support initiatives. The evening included dining catered by Butler’s Pantry, gaming tables, musical entertainment from Harvey Lockhart and the Collective, a live auction and fund the mission. St. Louis County Library Director & CEO Kristen Sorth shared about the library’s recent achievements including the completion of the Your Library Renewed campaign, the addition of a sixth social worker to SLCL’s Community Resource Initiative and a new program to increase access to digital media called ePopUp Library. KSDK’s Rene Knott served as emcee. The law firm, Dowd Bennett, was the event’s Millionaires Club presenting sponsor. KSDK was the media sponsor.
The Little Bit Foundation hosted its 18th Annual Join the Journey Gala on November 1, 2024, at the Chase Park Plaza Hotel. The organization’s signature event and largest annual fundraiser is a celebration of Little Bit’s work across the St. Louis region, those who are vital to the mission and the potential of the 17,000-plus students it serves. Pastors Aeneas and Tracy Williams served as this year’s honorary chairs, and Little Bit honored six recipients of its Spirit of Little Bit Award.
More than 500 guests celebrated Girls Inc. of St. Louis, and Trailblazer Honorees Joan Berkman, Adrian Bracy and Laurna Godwin at its 18th Annual Strong, Smart, and Bold Luncheon on November 8 at The Ritz-Carlton.
“Girls Inc. of St. Louis is the longest running girls’ leadership program and nonprofit that uses the power of mentorship and service to unlock opportunity to help prepare young women for success in fields where they have been historically underrepresented,” said Cheryl Jones, president & CEO, of Girls Inc. This year’s event raised more than $300,000 in addition to a generous AT&T grant of $50,000. Celebration highlights also included a Broadway worthy musical performance by Girls Inc. participants and scholarship presentations to members of its senior class.
The Black Rep’s Ninth Annual Gala on November 9 raised $150,000 funds to support year-round community programs throughout the St. Louis community. Founder and Producing Director Ron Himes, with Gala Co-Chairs Vito and Adrian Bracy and Everett and Amy Johnson, honored Rudy Nickens and Maxine Clark with the Frankie Muse Freeman Spirit Award, and Daryl Harris, Denise Thimes and Pearl Cleage with the Woodie King Jr. Lifetime Achievement Award. Featured guests included Hollywood
and the
On November 8, Best Buddies - Missouri hosted the 2024 “Under the Stars” gala held at the James S. McDonnell Planetarium. The evening brought together supporters, community leaders, volunteers and Best Buddies participants to celebrate the achievements of the 2024 Champions of the Year: Sage Acorn, Bennett Baur, Ned McLean, Felicia Ford, Hayley Leach and Matthew Leach, Marshall McClure, Jaime Chailland and Joe Reed. The Champion candidates spent the eight weeks leading up to the event raising awareness and funds to support Best Buddies programs. Best friends Bennett Baur and Ned McLean won the distinction of Grand Champion by raising a record $56,000.
On Thursday, November 14th, a sold-out crowd gathered at 18Rails The Venue at City Foundry to celebrate 20 years of LEAD STL (formerly Cultural Leadership). Attendees included alumni of the program, their families, past and current members of the board of directors, supporters of the program and awardees. Funds raised from the event support the programs of LEAD STL. Awards were given to the following: Karen Kalish, the founder of the organization; Tamyka Perine, Phil Hunsberger, Bryant Ewing, Rabbi Scott Shafrin, Dr. Sharonica Hardin-Bartley, Rev. Bethany Johnson-Javois, Denise Lieberman and Michael McMillan.
ere are a lot of tour options if you want to go to Tuscany. But ours is like no other.
{The World’s Finest}
MaidenVoyage:October2025
We have been coming to Tuscany since we met as study-abroad students in 1985. en, I was the North American publicist for the Italian Tourism Board (ENIT SPA), and since then we have spent more than 365 days in Florence and Tuscany with our family and closest friends. Now, we want to share Tuscany with you in a way no travel company can o er.
Highlights include:
Junior suite in 5-star hotel.
Florentine guide for walking tours, line-free access and day trips to hill towns.
Leading scholar on Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo at your disposal.
Private tour of the U zi Galleries, Palazzo Vecchio and Accademia.
Behind the scenes tour of the oldest vineyards in Tuscany, white tru e hunt and tru e lunch, and latest harvest of the highest rated organic Tuscan olive oil.
Cooking class overlooking the Ponte Vecchio after provisioning at Mercato Centrale.
Guests of the most important wine family in Italy, wine tasting and Michelin Star meal in their private dining room in their palazzo.
Private shopping at the most exclusive boutiques and an optional half day trip to e Mall.
Walk 20,000 steps a day, climb towers and see vistas few get to experience. You will likely lose a few pounds too.
Optional guided tours daily.
And this is just the beginning. If you are the least bit interested, email me (craig@slmag.net) for more information and to receive a detailed itinerary. Space is limited to 5 couples per week.
$12,000 per person excluding airfare and discretionary alcohol, but includes a junior suite in 5-star hotel with breathtaking views, meals, excursions and gratuities.
Available Weeks of Oct 15, 22, 29 and Nov. 5.
With beautiful contemporary art galleries, catering by Idol Wolf, and top-notch hospitality, 21c St Louis offers unforgettable experiences for every kind of celebration.