March 2016 by The Vital Voice Magazine

Pearl vodka and vital voice Presents 5th annual

a festival of short lgbtQ Plays

the rialto ballroom 3547 Olive St. â&#x20AC;˘ St. lOuiS aPril 8th-10th 2016

get your tickets today at briefs.eventbrite.com That Uppity Theatre Company thevitalVOICE.com

March 2016

MARCH 2016

The

HOME Issue

IMPRESSUM 6 7

MASTHEAD PUBLISHERS’ LETTER

NIGHTLIFE 8 11 13 15

FIRST SIP PLAYDATES ST. LOUIS PLAYDATES KANSAS CITY BRIEFS A FESTIVAL OF SHORT LGBTQ PLAYS

SELLOUT! AN OVER-THE-TOP MUSICAL AFFAIR

PROFILES 18

TED WIGHT MOLDING MODERN HISTORY

KEITH WARDLAW REFURNISHING KANSAS CITY

22.

JOSH FLAGG KICK IT AT HOME WITH THE BRAVO STAR AND TOP LA REAL ESTATE AGENT, WHO ISN’T SHY IN SHARING HIS SECRETS OF SUCCESS

STYLE 26

KANSAS CITY FASHION WEEK FALL/WINTER 2016

MITCHELL GOLD + BOB WILLIAMS SPRING 2016 COLLECTION

LIFE GUIDE 31

CONDENSED LIVING SMALL PLACE, SMART SPACE

ENTERTAINMENT 35 36 41

PENELOPE’S SPRING CLEANING ST. LOUIS SCENE SHOW ME SCENE

thevitalVOICE.com

CEO & PARTNER • DARIN SLYMAN DSLY@THEVITALVOICE.COM PUBLISHER & PARTNER • JIMMY LESCH JIMMY@THEVITALVOICE.COM MANAGING EDITOR • KEVIN SCHMIDT KEVIN@THEVITALVOICE.COM ART DIRECTOR • MELANIE LAYER-GASKELL MELANIE@MELANIELAYER.COM GRAPHIC DESIGNER • GRANT SWANSON GRANT@THEVITALVOICE.COM SENIOR WRITER • DENNY PATTERSON DENNY@THEVITALVOICE.COM CONTRIBUTOR • KARLA TEMPLETON KARLATEMPLETON1213@GMAIL.COM CONTRIBUTOR • KALEIGH JURGENSMEYER KMJURGENSMEYER@GMAIL.COM CONTRIBUTOR • TYLER BIERMAN TB6809@GMAIL.COM CONTRIBUTOR • JILL FIRNS JILLIANFIRNS31@GMAIL.COM CONTRIBUTOR • ERIN WILLIAMS ERINWILLIAMS16@AOL.COM CONTRIBUTORS ART: DARIN SLYMAN, MELANIE LAYER-GASKELL, MARK MOORE, TOMMY GARCIA/BRAVO, GRANT SWANSON, BECCA SPEARS, WESLEY PIERCY TEXT: KEVIN SCHMIDT, DENNY PATTERSON, KARLA TEMPLETON, KALEIGH JURGENSMEYER, TYLER BIERMAN, JILL FIRNS, ROMANA MRZLJAK DESIGN: MELANIE LAYER-GASKELL, GRANT SWANSON ONLINE THEVITALVOICE.COM FACEBOOK.COM/VITALVOICE TWITTER.COM/VITALVOICE INSTAGRAM.COM/VITALVOICE CONTACT VITAL VOICE MAGAZINE 4579 LACLEDE AVE #268, ST. LOUIS, MO 63108 VV@THEVITALVOICE.COM 314.256.1196 25K ISSUES PRINTED MONTHLY 400+ POINTS OF DISTRIBUTION THROUGHOUT THE ST. LOUIS AND KANSAS CITY AREA

March 2016

PUBLISHERS’ LETTER

WELCOME Home is where the heart is. It’s also where you can create, laugh, love and build a life. With so many LGBTers getting married and building lives together, it seemed fitting to bring back the Home Issue. This month’s cover boy, Josh Flagg, is known for his ruthless real estate acumen on the hit reality show Million Dollar Listing on Bravo. We wanted to explore how he handles the stresses of being a TV personality versus his personal home life. Whether you dislike him or love him, Josh is one of our own who has worked hard to get where he is in life. That is something to admire. Speaking of realtors, The St. Louis Convention and Visitors Commission and Vital VOICE are please to spotlight Ted Wight as one of our city’s real estate movers and shakers. This will be the first of six LGBT business profiles that we are proud to showcase this year. Most of us can remember our college dorm room or our first studio apartment. My, how things have changed when it comes to maximizing a small living space. Tyler Bierman

helps us life hack our way into creating a fabulous living space in very close quarters. Most importantly this month, you’ll want to get your tickets fast to the 5th anniversary of Briefs, our LGBTQ Theater Festival. We can’t believe that what started out as a brainchild of Joan Lipkin of That Uppity Theatre Company and Vital VOICE’s CEO Darin Slyman has grown to become the must- have ticket of the year. You’ll be treated to an amazing production of diverse live theater and great libations. Briefs will be held at the Rialto Ballroom on April 8-10. As always we at Vital VOICE appreciate your support and readership. We like to consider ourselves as your HOME for LGBT Life and Style Media.

Darin Slyman CEO/Partner

Jimmy Lesch Publisher/Partner

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NIGHTLIFE

FIRST SIP THE IRISHMAN Not to be confused with his kooky cousin, there’s nothing nutty about this Irishman. The cocktail is a twist on a White Russian, replacing the vodka with Irish whiskey and including Saint Brendan’s Irish Cream. The liqueur is inspired by the sixth-century monk, Saint Brendan the Abbot. Known for his remarkable travels, his adventurous spirit guided a quest for the most authentic, all-natural Irish ingredients to create the premium spirit. All natural cream from the finest milking cows along with aged, triple-distilled Irish whiskey form the most authentic, most decadent, most enjoyed Irish Cream Liqueur available. In the words of the Irishman, it’s “just as the good Lord intended.”

MAKE IT Glass: Short Rocks/Collins or Brandy Snifter Ingredients: 1 oz. The Quiet Man Irish Whiskey 1.5 oz Saint Brendan’s Irish Cream .75 oz Coffee Liqueur Combine all ingredients in a rocks glass over ice and top with half & half or milk. Don’t feel like making it yourself ? Join Vital VOICE for an Irishman at Bistro 303 for our St. Patrick’s Day Party on March 17! Text KEVIN SCHMIDT Art DARIN SLYMAN

March 2016

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March 2016

STL NIGHTLIFE

Playdates

SAINT LOUIS

2016 EXPERIENCE HENDRIX TOUR Fabulous Fox Theatre - fabulousfox.com

Hailed by critics and fans alike as the “Guitar Event Of The Year,” the multi-artist celebration known as the Experience Hendrix Tour is set to return in 2016. The series presents legendary artists who join together to pay homage to Jimi Hendrix. The tour celebrates the musical genius by bringing together a diverse array of extraordinary musicians, ranging from blues legend Buddy Guy to Black Label Society and former Ozzy Osbourne guitarist Zakk Wylde, as well as Jonny Lang, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Eric Johnson, Dweezil Zappa and many others. Billy Cox, bassist for both the Jimi Hendrix Experience and Band of Gypsys, anchors a rhythm section for exciting renditions of signature Hendrix favorites.

5th-6th

11th-13th

12th

PROKOFIEV’S ROMEO & JULIET

SLAM PRESENTS: ART IN BLOOM

MISS GAY SPIRIT OF ST. LOUIS

Powell Hall - stlsymphony.org It’s Prokofiev’s most recognized and haunting score from one of the greatest love stories of our time, remaining full of radiant textures and heart-breaking tenderness.

St. Louis Art Museum - slam.org Featuring more than 35 works of art interpreted into floral displays, the festival will include a full schedule of lectures, live music and activities for the entire family.

Grey Fox Pub - mgmpageantry.com Hosted by Vicki Valentino and Jade Sinclair, you are cordially invited to “A Night in Olympus: Goddesses,” a direct preliminary to Miss Gay Missouri America in April.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

IF/THEN: A NEW MUSICAL

CARRIE UNDERWOOD: STORYTELLER TOUR

Downtown St. Louis - irishparade.org Elaborate floats, marching bands, dance groups, animal units and giant cartoon character helium-filled balloons fill the streets of St. Louis for the annual parade.

Fabulous Fox Theatre - fabulousfox.com The original new musical follows one woman’s two possible life paths simultaneously, painting a portrait of the lives we lead, as well as the lives we might have led.

12th

15th-27th

Chaifetz Arena - thechaifetzarena.com Seven-time Grammy winner and Pollstar’s three-time top female country touring artist takes her new music to St. Louis with special guests Easton Corbin & The Swon Brothers.

24th

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March 2016

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KC NIGHTLIFE

Playdates

KANSAS CITY

AIDS WALK OPEN

Citywide - aidswalkopen.org

The pub crawl everybody’s talking about! Bring your team of four golfers and visit twelve bars (each with their own mini-golf hole) and compete for some fantastic prizes. A free bus service takes you from bar to bar, with Miller Lite drink specials and opportunities to make new friends. The crawl goes from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. with an awards ceremony at 7 p.m. at Missie B’s. Registration is $160 per team of four, but goes up to $180 if registered after March 3. Day of registrations will be held at Missie B’s only. This is an event to dress up for, and remember to bring your own putter and balls! Prizes will be awarded to the top three teams and the Best Dressed Team. This year’s Grand Prize is one case of Miller Lite per player per month for an entire year. All proceeds benefit AIDS Walk 2016 on April 30.

12th

13th-19th

17th

MELINDA RYDER’S BIRTHDAY PARTY

KANSAS CITY FASHION WEEK

ST. PATRICK’S DAY AT THE BISTRO

Studio Dan Meiners - eventbrite.com Celebrate the 60th birthday of Kansas City’s legendary female impersonator, Melinda Ryder, and her 40 years of entertaining, fundraising and community service.

Union Station - kcfashionweek.com All the designs from the region’s top designers will be on display at the weeklong event, highlighting the top fashion and designs for Fall/Winter 2016.

Bistro 303 - thevitalvoice.com Join Vital VOICE at Bistro 303 for an entertaining evening with amazing Pearl cocktails, music from the fabulous SELLOUT! and tons of St. Patty’s day shennanigans!

PINK MARTINI HEARTLAND MEN’S CHORUS: PITCH PERFECT AT THE KAUFFMAN

Folly Theater - follytheater.org With music made popular by groups like Pentatonix and Straight No Chaser, you’ll be astounded by the power of the human voice in this high-energy pops concert.

Helzberg Hall - kauffmancenter.org Drawing sounds from a myriad of influences, as well as spanning the globe, cultures and time, Pink Martini crosses genres of classical, jazz and old-fashioned pop.

UNCORKED: KC WINE FESTIVAL

19th-20th

20th

26th

Union Station - eventbrite.com Uncorked features over 50 wineries, gourmet food trucks, live music and the perfect opportunity to sample new wines and revisit old favorites.

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introducing:

SPRING 2016 COLLECTION

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March 2016

STL NIGHTLIFE 5th annual

A F e s t i va l O f S h o rt TYLER BIERMAN L g bt q P l ays text art MARK MOORE Mark your calendars because come this April, we will see the return of St. Louis’ favorite LGBTQ theater event. Yes, it’s nearly time for the 5th annual Briefs: A Festival of Short LGBTQ Plays. Since its conception five years ago by That Uppity Theatre Company and Vital VOICE, Briefs has become a must-see event that pleases mature and diverse crowds with its unique format of eight 10-minute plays. And once again, Briefs will be sponsored by hometown favorite, Pearl Vodka. The 2016 season is shaping up to be the best Briefs yet with more than 250 submissions, substantially higher than any other year. With regard to the ever-growing success of the festival, co-producer and artistic director Joan Lipkin says, “This is year five of the festival and news of its high quality – from writing to acting to directing to venue – continues to spread. Playwrights we have produced in the past tell their friends and colleagues that we are a great place to show their work, and we continue to widen our networks for submission.” A few themes and issues we will see addressed in this year’s performances include coming out in the AfricanAmerican community, the LGBT experience in a nursing home, the thinlyveiled erotics of a Victorian women’s literary club and the relationship between a transgender mother and her daughter.

Tickets can be purchased through BRiefs.eventbrite.com 6

Among its diverse roster, Briefs will include two female African-American directors, an addition that Lipkin believes is very important in the St. Louis community at this time. “With Briefs, I have wanted to actively challenge ourselves to involve more artists of color to provide more opportunities, as well as to reflect more of the diversity of our community,” she explains. “We are working for the first time with

two female directors of color, Jackie Thompson and Fannie Lebby, who are excellent. They are happy to join us and I am thrilled to have these two respected directors.” Back again this year alongside Briefs is the Ken Haller Playwriting Competition for LGBTQ and Allied Youth. Named after Ken Haller, the esteemed pediatrician, performer and LGBTQ activist, this competition offers an exciting opportunity to playwrights in the community with the winner receiving a $250 prize and production at the festival. This year’s recipient is Webster Univerity student Max Friedman, who will be recognized for his play, The Grind. Now in its second year, the competition has grown and has received a higher rate of submissions and interest. According to Lipkin, the impact of this competition has been very impressive with several theater classes even utilizing the competition as a teaching tool for students by having them write submissions as part of their curriculum.V

Join Us AT the Rialto Ballroom at the at Centene Center for Arts and Education Friday, April 8 at 8 p.m. saturday, april 9th at 4 p.m. & 8 p.m. sunday, april 10 at 2 p.m. with a pre-show brunch at noon provided by hiro asian kitchen. General admission tickets: $20 VIP tickets: $50 & include two seats at a private table with a bottle of wine. Sunday brunch: $30 in advance for g/a $50 for vip TABLE. thevitalVOICE.com

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KC NIGHTLIFE

ST. PATRICK’S DAY IS A NOTORIOUSLY GOOD TIME, ESPECIALLY IF YOU FIND THE RIGHT PARTY. JOIN VITAL VOICE AT BISTRO 303 ON MARCH 17TH FOR FOOD, ST BRENDAN’S COCKTAILS AND AN ENTERTAINMENT LINEUP TO MAKE YOUR PADDY’S DAY UNFORGETTABLE. text KARLA TEMPLETON art BECCA SPEARS

icture this: Marilyn Monroe slips into her famous red satin dress and clears her throat. Tonight onstage, she will be singing an upbeat cover of Alanis Morissette’s “You Oughta Know” alongside Devo and Slash. Gene Simmons is in the wings, touching up his face paint and making sure his tongue is still long enough. One song in, Wonder Woman and Tina Turner show up and the party really gets started. This time everyone is singing “Fight For Your Right,” a little Beastie Boys to get the crowd going. Plus, it’s a dream come true when you add Kurt Cobain in the corner. This is reality when you see SELLOUT! live. This brainchild of Nick Kounas and Steve Ozark was conceived on a fishing boat one sunny morning. “You start coming up with wacky ideas, and the rest is history, so they say,” Kounas explains. Realizing that they had an idea that could fill the looming gap in the local Lawrence music scene, SELLOUT! was born. Over the next few years, they would realize they were on to something. Steve, the co-founder, set to doing what he does best: booking. “Steve owns his own talent agency and has booked more than 100,000 bands on six continents,” Kounas explains. With nine different female singers, seven drummers, four horn players, five guitarists and two keyboardists, SELLOUT! is known

today to bring the show, with a different performer and a surprise hit each time. They hit the road like a band of gypsies performing at bars, nightclubs, private parties, weddings, resorts and benefits from St. Louis to Colorado. The lineup is sure to change, but the songs remain the same: “over-the-top party hits that make any event better,” Kounas states. SELLOUT!’s following has grown tremendously throughout the years, even turning skeptics into fans. “There’s always some stuffy people in the audience who look at us as soon as we step on stage and shake their head, but after a while, we usually win them over,” Kounas laughs. “Come on, Gene Simmons is up there playing the Thong Song!” “I guess the lesson of the SELLOUT! story is simple,” Kounas explains. “It doesn’t matter who is on stage on any given night, SELLOUT! is not about me or anyone else. It’s about having a good time. So rest assured, with or without me, the many drummers, singers, horn players or other musicians, SELLOUT! will continue to improve, will continue to learn more tunes and continue to give you the best damn time you could imagine when considering you are going to see Gene Simmons play everything from Madonna to Led Zeppelin and everything in between. What a strange idea this thing was, but it works. It works because people know how to let their hair down, not take life too seriously and get out and have a good time.” V

Who They Are: A live music experience with talented musicians and fun females with costumes that match their personalities. Their Sound: Over-the-top hits with an 80s & Disco flair. Their Philosophy: SELLOUT! doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s all about having fun. So, let your hair down and have a good time.

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MOLDING MODERN HISTORY

TED WIGHT text KEVIN SCHMIDT art MARK MOORE

“If you would Google mid-century homes for sale in St. Louis, I’ll be on the first page,” Ted says. “Hopefully number one or number two.” Exceptional may come at a price tag, but it does not necessarily mean that it is unattainable. “The one thing that I run into is that, ‘Oh, it’s Ted Wight, everything he has is a million dollars,’” he explains. “It’s not like that. I lot of them are expensive, but I don’t just do pricey. The most expensive listing I have right now is one in Huntleigh for $6 million, text KALEIGH JURGENSMEYER art DAISY BUCKËT

March 2016

There’s no place like home. True. But what if there was something better out there? Home is where your heart is, but it’s Ted Wight’s job to make you fall in love all over again with something exceptional. He is the go-to guy for St. Louis homes that are “architecturally interesting.” It’s the guideline that governs his portfolio, and what he has in his stash is beyond interesting. From sprawling estates to historic urban mansions, Bernoudydesigned modern homes to chic condos, his listings are made to sell. In short, the man is killing it right now.

but my least expensive would be a condo in DeBaliviere that sold for $89,000 last year.

cool listings. My stretch goes from about Tower Grove to Wildwood area. That’s my focus.”

I have around 30 listings going at any given time, and I’ll take the listing if the property is architecturally interesting, if it is sellable,” Ted continues. “I love to help friends in Tower Grove, Shaw and CWE in selling their own homes and finding new ones. I honestly rarely turn down a listing because I want to help people. Usually it’s a friend or a family member; I get a referral and I get a lot of

But Ted, by no means, has any interest in limiting himself. Being an outgoing, charismatic guy, thinking outside of his realm is always something that’s in the works. “I do other fun and interesting homes like a country log cabin in House Springs,” he says. “It’s 30 minutes away from the city, out Gravois Road, and it’s beyond interesting. Judy Garland, even Elvis Presley, slept at this home. Not

STL Profile at the same time, of course. It’s called Pride’s Crossing, and it was a place where celebrities could stay if they wanted something more private. Lena Horn and Sarah Vaughn stayed out here as well. I believe it was because they couldn’t stay at the Chase back in the 40s and 50s because they were African American.” Nothing pretentious about the guy, Ted is more interesting in finding something special in the home, regardless of price tag or prime location. If you’re in the market to find something distinctly you and customized to your personality, Ted is here to please.

Ted defines the real estate market in the region as exciting and very stable, and that the things that are done well are selling. For 2016, St. Louis was named the second hottest real estate market in the country by realtor.com.

“We have a lot of people that, when they move to St. Louis or are considering moving here, are always very pleasantly surprised at the quality of architecture of our homes,” he explains. “St. Louis is known for great brick homes. Places like San Francisco are known for more frame houses, and Chicago has a lot of wood homes. St. Louis is just a wonderful place to buy a house. The homes are interesting and are in nice neighborhoods that are easy to get around.” While St. Louis is great on inventory with historic architecture, finding a stable modern home is something more

explorestlouis.com/lgbt

more comfortable with the concept of living there. Also, the Central West End, on the north side of the neighborhood toward Olive, Washington and Delmar, you’ll see a lot of beautiful older houses there that are run down or abandoned altogether. There’s no reason why it’s like that.”

TED WIGHT Office: 314.725.0009 Direct: 314.607.5555 Email: Ted@TedWight.com

Ted’s homes are both different in style and design, just how he likes to keep his portfolio. “I live in a Bernoudy-designed house in Ladue, and it’s a small one,” Ted says. At the same time, I love old houses.

few and far between. “It’s hard to find a good contemporary home,” Ted says. “They’re here in St. Louis, but they’re not the norm. The Grove is putting up some contemporary homes, and I’d like to see some more infill like that going in. I would say that, in the city, they embrace it more than in places like Clayton or University City. Still, St. Louis is in need of cutting-edge architecture.”

“2016 should be a very good year,” Ted continues. “We’ve become a real hotspot for the medical community. And with the Cortex expansion, it’s an exciting time. Plus, we’re a great place for high-tech start-ups. We’re affordable for employees to live here, and we’ve got a great Internet infrastructure downtown. We’re definitely on the uptick.” And as far as where to invest in next? You don’t have to look far. “The Grove area is going to explode,” he says. “Washington University is putting a lot of money up in the area, and people are becoming

I have a farm up in Pike County that I share with my family, and it has a historic house on it.”

Louis is also not so much a transient city, so when you get to know people, they stick around.”

Whether you call it the “Paris on the Mississippi,” “Rome of the West,” or simply home for now, St. Louis and its style are unique. “As one of the oldest cities off of the east coast, we have great architecture, a great history and, I would say, St. Louis is easy to get around in,” Ted says. “Here, you can have a friend in Tower Grove and Town & Country, and it works. The city is so accessible. St.

So if you call St. Louis home but are ready for something fresh, or are new to the area and ready to completely submerge yourself in what the city has in store, Ted’s got something to offer. And as a hometown guy whose family tracks their roots to the city’s founders, Pierre Laclede and Madame Chouteau, he certainly plans on sticking around for a while. V thevitalVOICE.com

REFURNISHING KANSAS CITY

PLUS MODERN DESIGN 20

March 2016

KC Profile If you live in Kansas City and are in need of urban, modern furniture pieces that are both quality and affordable, searching the Internet is the most viable option. But for Keith Wardlaw, he knew there had to be a better way. “I decided if I couldn’t find it here, I would introduce it to Kansas City by helping easily attain the look and products associated with modern interior design,” he says. Wardlaw is the founder of Plus Modern Design, Kansas City’s freshest and most imaginative modern interior design firm and furniture showroom. He oversees all of the projects the firm produces, already establishing an extensive portfolio, and has positioned himself at the forefront of modern interior design in the city and around the country. Vital VOICE caught up with Wardlaw to chat more about his business endeavors, upcoming trends and, of course, his personal style. What is the primary goal of Plus Modern Design?

Here in Kansas City, the reason I started Plus Modern Design was to offer an option for people on modern design. We don’t really have a lot of those options outside of Crate & Barrel in our city, so I wanted to offer something that had a little bit more of a modern touch and industrial design. What makes your business unique?

When you walk in the door, you’re actually working with designers. We don’t have a huge showroom space, so we are a lot more involved with the design process and actually showing people the multiple products that we can get. We help design items specifically for the client, and we also have the ability to customize just about anything. We have our own private label we had made in southern California, so if someone comes in and loves one of our sofas, we can actually customize it to how they want it. When designing a room, what is the most important factor for you?

Probably how you’re going to scale the room and floor planning. I think that’s what most people struggle with. Obviously, if you have something that’s undersized, it

makes the room look ridiculous. And if you purchase something oversized, it’s obviously not going to fit in the space and you’re not going to be happy with it. What room would you say is the most difficult to design?

If it came to designing – like the construction aspect – I would say the utility or laundry room, because I find them to be very boring. A lot of people find the organization part of that to be great, but I don’t find a lot of interest in those rooms. When it comes to interior designing, kitchens can be quite daunting. They seem to be a very personable space for people, so there’s a lot of back and forth going on when it comes to designing that room. People want that room to function perfectly well for them. What are some design trends that we should be on the lookout for?

One of them is going to be rose gold – we will begin to see it everywhere. I also feel like we are transitioning to mid-century modern and we will see, as crazy as it sounds, a lot of different patterns and textures from the 70s. Although not as bold, we’re going to see some of those accents coming back. What makes a timeless piece of furniture?

Number one is going to be the quality – how well it’s made and how long it’s going to last. I also feel, for me, a timeless piece is something that’s going to have clean lines and can easily go into different periods or designs – something that was made high quality but can go into a different design style and be used for the future opposed to what I call “throw away” furniture. What kinds of pieces most stand out to you?

I have a weird obsession with chairs [laughs]. I don’t know why. Chairs are one of those things you can put just about anywhere. You can put one in the corner or across from the sofa; chairs can be made in all kinds of different ways. You can change out the fabric, do more of a laid back, relaxed chair or you can do something a little bit smaller. I always find myself looking at chair options the most. Either that or rugs. What does your home look like?

It’s a loft-style condo in River Market in downtown Kansas City. I have a lot of midcentury style pieces with a mix of traditional

1739 Walnut Street St, Kansas City, MO 64108 (816) 866-7587

pieces that I have added into that. And there’s a lot of blues and oranges with a lot of textures as well. Is there a style of furniture that you think should just go away altogether?

Yes. Those horrendous, overstuffed sofas that have cup-holders and stuff in them. They are such a monstrosity. Do you have any tips for those wanting something special, but on a budget?

I feel like people who want to stay on a budget should frequently check out flea markets and antique stores. You can find a lot of great accent pieces that can either be re-finished or recovered, and there’s really not a lot of cost when it comes to that. Do you have a dream type of home you would like to furnish?

A California contemporary. That’s how I would explain it. Open floor plans, clean lines and a very modern style. V text DENNY PATTERSON art WESLEY PIERCY

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A T

H O M E

W I T H

JOSH FLAGG S T A R M I L L I O N

O F B R A V O ' S D O L L A R L I S T I N G

In Josh Flagg’s own words, he doesn’t just sell houses. He sells a lifestyle. A very expensive lifestyle. As a cast member and real estate agent on Bravo’s Million Dollar Listing, Flagg has seen the biggest, the grandest and the most extravagant houses in Beverly Hills and beyond. He’s traveled to 50 different countries and graced the pages of The Wall Street Journal, Los Angeles Times, Forbes, Variety, to name a few. Seeming rather content with his present career and lifestyle, Flagg doesn’t have plans to slow down anytime soon. text KALEIGH JURGENSMEYER art TOMMY GARCIA/BRAVO

March 2016

thevitalVOICE.com

You know someone is a big deal when they have enough experience and success to have published their own autobiography at the ripe old age of 25. Today, five years later, Josh Flagg could fill up the pages of volume two if he wanted, having sold more than $1 billion in real estate in the past decade. “I hope to be where I am now in five to 10 years,” Flagg says. “If I continue doing what I’m doing now, I’ll be very happy.” Who could blame him? When he goes to work he’s surrounded by clean lines, sleek designs, luxury and sophistication. “I was either going to be an architect or an interior designer,” Flagg says. But real estate fits him. His love of houses and architecture and people were combined. “I get the best of both worlds now because I am in fabulous homes every single day.”

March 2016

That sophisticated environment is something Flagg has been familiar with his entire life. He grew up in Los Angeles and started his career when he was just 18 years old, negotiating deals out of his math class. The first deal he did was for a $6 million home on Laurel Way in Beverly Hills. Today, that house would be worth $12 million. “This is where I’m from. I know properties better and know how one block makes a complete difference between other streets,” Flagg explains. “In a way, I know houses better than those in the business for 40 years. If I didn’t have the knowledge I have about Beverly Hills and Bel Air, I would surely not be where I am today.” Although Southern California is where Flagg was born and raised, “home” to him is not what home means to others.

“I am the youngest cast member in the franchise, but I have been on the longest. It was a great decision for my career,”

“I don’t like to live in one place for a long time – I like to buy and sell. So home to me is not a place forever.” “Home is whatever is in the moment,” he says. “I don’t like to live in one place for a long time – I like to buy and sell. So home to me is not a place forever.” When you’ve sold million-dollar and up residences, it makes sense that you would have a wandering eye to other properties. He sees the best and most beautiful places of LA, and having a change of scenery is a luxury he can afford. Even though he moves often, his own living is nothing short of lavish. Clad with fine art and timepieces, Flagg’s living room might look more like a hotel or museum. It also doesn’t hurt that his partner is an interior designer. “I am a traditionalist,” Flagg shrugs. “I can appreciate contemporary, but by no means do I want to live in contemporary.” When his clients are selling a home, he recommends staying away from an eclectic or dramatic design. Today, it’s all about sleekness. “Make it clean, fresh, white,” he says. “Something everybody likes.” The best-selling feature, however, cannot be aesthetically changed. “Today the most important

feature of a home is the view,” Flagg says. “In the 90s, it was the tennis court. What will be next, I do not know.” Flagg’s career really took off when he was approached by Bravo to be a cast member on Million Dollar Listing. At that time, Flagg had just reached the legal drinking age and had been in the business for only a few years. Despite his age, however, he was already making big waves in the real estate scene. Since he got into the business, he’s worked with a number of big names, including Merv Griffin, Adam Levine, Steve Aoki and Chicago’s Robert Lamm, and has been featured as a real estate expert on various Fox Business shows, NBC’s Today Show, E!, CBS’s The Insider and ABC’s Good Morning America. “I am the youngest cast member in the franchise, but I have been on the longest. It was a great decision for my career,” he says. As for his cast members? Flagg responds, “Every agent is different and has their own talents. Some just have more than others.” Although Flagg describes himself somewhat selfdeprecatingly as an “idiot savant,” his talents and charisma clearly keep him busy. In 2015, Flagg took the number one spot for volume agent in Los Angeles and was the number two agent in sales. In the first half of 2015, he sold $147 million, which included 20 homes over $5 million. Flagg’s relentless nature, work ethic and honesty with his customers keep them coming back to him. “There are many brokers that make big deals, but the key is repeat business,” he explains. “If you want clients to come back, you have to be fair with them.” The future looks bright for this young entrepreneur. Book number three is in the works, he’s on the next season of Bravo’s hit show and he’s in line to snag the spot as number one agent in Beverly Hills. Plus, he’s in the right place at the right time. “Los Angeles is the hotspot for the year,” Flagg says. “As New York has cooled down, the City of Angels is on fire! LA is the new London.” Undoubtedly, Flagg’s fortune will continue and hopefully lead to bigger and bigger sales. But as a true go-getter, Flagg doesn’t stop to bask in his achievements – he just sets a bigger goal.V thevitalVOICE.com

Although St. Louis was just mentioned by online powerhouse publication Not Just A Label as potentially being the fashion capitol of the Midwest, we can assure you that our sister city Kansas City knows how to show out when the time comes. And the time is definitely coming: Kansas City Fashion Week is quickly approaching for its Fall/Winter 2016 season, with the dates set for March 13-19. With fancy affairs, business workshops and three nights in a row of runways, the weekend is sure to impress.

Three-day passes are currently available for an affordable $70 through kcfashionweek.com.

SCHEDULE March 17 | Doors 6:00 p.m., Show 7:30 p.m. Gypsy Blaque The House of Khai T. Michelle Designs The Little Line by Liz KJ Clothing Design Ola Style More Than Just Figleaves March 18 | Doors 6:30 p.m., Show 8:00 p.m. Lauren Bander Paulie Gibson Madison LaRae Durant Michael Drummond Kiana Godsey Present. by, Rachel Anne Gottlieb My Heirloom Bridal Design March 19 | Doors 6:30 p.m., Show 8:00 p.m. Architexture Tomboy Design Luciaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sarto Erin Paige christianMICHEAL Andrea Marie Long Designs

March 2016

KC Style

She’s doesn’t believe in coincidences: everything has a reason and everyone has a purpose. Her purpose was to spread love. When Erin Paige Stegman founded her jewelry line, Erin Paige Designs, in 2012, she knew that each piece was a chance to put the four-letter word into action. Hand crafted and laced with positivity, Stegman’s designs are emblems of her passion for life. Her collection, “Art Meets Fashion,” which showcased at KCFW in 2013, featured an array of copper necklaces, cuff bracelet and patinaed earrings – all infused with Stegman’s loving kindness. Three years later, Stegman is back at KCFW to debut her 2016 collection,“Compassion and Grace.” Extending her line to include handmade clothing and preparing to manufacture her first jewelry piece, Stegman is more eager than ever to share her purpose. What was the process like in making your most recent collection for KCFW? My collection for KCFW was based on the Guan Yin, the goddess of compassion. Through a very interesting time in my life, I discovered her and she help me through a lot. I had a time when I was walking, right after I painted her, and I could feel her with me, her arms around me.There is a statue of her here in Kansas City, and that’s my temple. I visit her and I meditate. The collection is based on visions of her and her assistance. You’re very specific about making sure each piece is made from the heart, this includes using mainly copper in your collection. I gravitate toward copper because it has healing properties. I started to use patina on it and I loved the reaction; it’s different every time and that’s what makes the pieces unique. It’s an angelic thing. One of your main goals in creating the collection was to infuse every piece with positive energy. How does it feel to know that your pieces are spreading love and strength? It’s so hard to put into words, except that I love with all my heart and it makes me feel good that others feel that love. I

Featured Designer: Erin Paige Stegman

realized that I infuse my loving-kindness into my jewelry pieces about a year and a half ago. When I create a custom piece for a client, I know that my angels are there. The jewelry is one aspect, but I want to know about the person. I meditate on them; what kind of music they listen to, what makes them happy. I focus on that because I feel that that energy passes on to that person that wears it. On top of designing your collection, you also run a blog and create motivational YouTube videos. What inspired you to start posting? The videos are me speaking from my authentic self. In the videos, I try to show that there is good everywhere. Even if you are in a not-so-good situation, there is good that can come out of it if you choose to see it. I think that’s the biggest thing. You have to choose to open yourself up and have a growing awareness of your surrounding. Do you have a mantra or quote you live by? My mantra for 2016 is: I surrender and I am ready now. I think in the past, I’ve put my own chains on myself and have limited myself. I’ve learned that I need to accept that I am ready for bigger and better things. V

text JILL FIRNS AND ROMANA MRZLJAK art ERIN PAIGE DESIGNS

Rightfully Sewn is the KCFW16 charity partner which focuses on empowering at-risk women by providing seamstress training. With their newly learned trade skill, these women can help reestablish Kansas City as a forerunner in the garmentmanufacturing world, as well as offer them greater opportunities.

DID YOU KNOW? thevitalVOICE.com

ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S GOT TO BE THE GOOD LIFE

When you think of a high-end retail store welcoming any and all customers, do you typically consider furry friends to be included as well? Accepting doggy shoppers is just one practice that helps set luxury home decor shop Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams apart in the scene in St. Louis. Their flagship store opened inside Plaza Frontenac in November of 2014, and has established itself as one of the go-to spots to shop for inspiration on how to integrate new styles into your home.

March 2016

STL Style With expansive white walls and various styled settings to peruse, the design philosophy of the company shows through: Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams aims to provoke customers into choosing comfort as the priority in their everyday home life. Walking into the store feels welcoming and serene, and immediately sparks customers’ imaginations without overwhelming them. The Plaza Frontenac location is the third largest storefront in the mall, taking up the equivalent space of three former retailers. We found settings that could appeal to a variety of St. Louis tastes – from functionbefore-fashion homes full of children, to the more refined leather pieces one might enjoy alone with a nightcap. We visited with Paul Reigelsberger, General Manager of the Frontenac store, and asked him what helps them stand out in the crowd He explained that the brand operates on a schedule that more closely follows fashion than the calendar other furniture retailers do.

“In doing it this way, we bump up the time frame so we are ahead of the curve,” Paul explains. “Many stores launch their collections for spring and fall in April and October, respectively, but by following the fashion calendar, we are ready to go as people are preparing to spruce up their homes for the changing seasons.” For folks like us, that works out just perfectly. We’ve noticed quite a bit of lush grey tones walking the FW‘16 runways in New York recently, and they certainly jive well with the cool colors we spied in Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams’ layouts. When customers find themselves uncertain about which of those colors, fabrics or textures will work best with their current decor, they can schedule an in-home consultation to ensure they’re making the right choice. This is a great option for people who have an idea in mind, but need just a little extra help to fully realize it. Even purchasing the smallest of furniture pieces can be stressful and overwhelming,

SPRING 2016 COLLECTION

so Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams focuses on “immediate gratification” as most of the brand’s inventory is available in-store. Shoppers are provided with multitudes of ideas on creating the look and feel they most desire. If you’re eco-friendly like us, you’ll fall even more in love with the brand, which is a founding member of the Sustainable Furnishings Council. With intense recycling initiatives, domestically-sourced wood and natural fibers used in many of their products, Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams makes sure you feel comfortable with your purchase in more ways than one. From large pieces, such as swanky sectional sofas, to small decorative elements like cut glass coasters, Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams caters to everyone’s side that desires just a little bit of luxury. V text JILL FIRNS art COURTESY OF MITCHELL GOLD + BOB WILLIAMS

STAFF PICKS

Tyler Bierman, Contributor: “I’m feeling the Kimora Rosewood Table. It’s a look that shows your affinity for the modern, but also the appreciation for classic craftsmanship.”

SEASIDE PRINTS ROXBURY BAR

Melanie Layer-Gaskell, Art Director: “Roxbury Bar! I love the diamond pattern and the brass peg legs. Contemporary with a nice mid-century modern flair.”

Grant Swanson, Graphic Designer: “I really like the seaside prints. Being around bodies of water is really calming for me, so I think it’d be a great addition to my apartment!”

Kaleigh Jurgensmeyer, Contributor: “I’m crazy about the open shelving units of the Vienna Bookcase. When placed in the middle of the room, it creates a visual block to separate two distinct areas while allowing a seamless, airy flow between the space.”

VIENNA BOOKCASE

Romana Mrzljak, Design Intern: “The Enzo Wing Chair is the perfect balance between simple and luxurious. I really love the juxtaposition of the thin, deconstructed frame with the cozy, black faux fur.”

KIMORA ROSEWOOD ENZO WING CHAIR thevitalVOICE.com

How will you make the world more beautiful?

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March 2016

LIFE GUIDE

CONDENSED LIVING Everything You Need to Know About Living in a Micro Apartment text TYLER BIERMAN

Okay, so you’ve finally made the leap to sign a lease for your first micro apartment. Before you start loading up your U-Haul, let us fill you in on a few vital tips that will make your new living arrangement so much easier.

INITIAL THOUGHTS

SMALL CAN BE BIG

Focus on the essentials in your life. Think about it. The whole point of moving to a new, smaller apartment wasn’t just to save money. It was to strip your living space down to the essence of what it is to reduce your focus on space and improve your life. Focus on bringing only what you need, and optimizing it from there.

When it comes to making your small space feel bigger than it really is, there are a number of fun ways you can trick the eye. Hands down, our favorite technique is to utilize mirrors. You’ll be astounded at the effect a mirror can have in a cramped kitchen or claustrophobic office. Additionally, art that has depth works very similarly to mirrors. It’s a sort of optical illusion that pulls the eye past the wall it’s hanging on.

Another idea that could save you a ton of time is to simply blueprint your apartment. All you need is a tape measure, a piece of paper and the time to take thorough measurements of your apartment. This takes the entire guesswork out of organizing your new space.

CUT THE CLUTTER Two words: versatile furniture. We’re talking about any item that can be used for multiple purposes, whether that be a bed that doubles as a couch, storage box chairs or a convertible desk. Nowadays there’s virtually no limit to this sort of specialty item. You just have to go out and find them. Another two words: build up. What we mean by that is you have to utilize wall space when living in a condensed area. At many furniture stores you can find stylish storage units to fit the length of a standard wall, as well as television mounts, free-hanging hooks and wall shelving.

STAYING SANE It’s not always going to be a walk in the park living in your new micro apartment, especially if you’re living with a significant other or roommate. However, there are ways to divide up your space even in the tightest quarters. This could be a strategically placed divider or curtain that can go up in a moments notice. It’s a great move to have in your playbook when tempers flare up or you just need a little change to your landscape. Air quality is something many people don’t think about, but can be a real concern. You can quickly and easily remedy this problem with a few houseplants, filtered fans or a humidifier. Perhaps the most important tip is to remember to get out of your home. Micro apartments are almost always located in easily walkable neighborhoods that are close to trendy shops and delicious cuisine options, so take advantage of them. Treating yourself – even to something small like coffee – can keep you happy when your apartment gets a tad stuffy. With these clever tips and helpful insights, you can make your 450, 300 or even 200square-foot apartment feel like home. Now comes the fun part – get out there and decorate your new place. V

thevitalVOICE.com

You don’t have to move to get that new-home feeling.

Consider a U.S. Bank Home Equity Line of Credit for your next project. With competitive rates and flexible payment options, lasting home improvements could be within reach. Call 800.209.BANK (2265), visit a local branch, or go to usbank.com/dreambig.

EQUAL HOUSING

Loan approval is subject to credit approval and program guidelines. Not all loan programs are available in all states for all loan amounts. Interest rates and program terms are subject to change without notice. Visit usbank.com to learn more about U.S. Bank products and services. Mortgage and Home Equity products are offered by U.S. Bank National Association. Deposit products are offered by U.S. Bank National Association. Member FDIC. ©2016 U.S. Bank. 160083 2/16

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text DENNNY PATTERSON art AARON STONE

March 2016

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