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Absolute Living

JULY 2022

LUXURY UPGRADES

ESCAPE TO THE LAKE

CARRIE HOLLE

TOTE–ALLY OBSESSED

HIGH–END. HOOSIER–MADE.

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July/2022

CONTENTS

LUXURY UPGRADES

Photography By Gabrielle Cheikh Noel

CARRIE HOLLE OF THE CARRIE HOLLE GROUP

THE ABSOLUTE AGENDA

HIGH–END. HOOSIER–MADE.

TOTE-ALLY OBSESSED

ESCAPE TO THE LAKE

Feeling the need for a staycation this summer? Our monthly agenda of city and regional happenings has you covered with all manner of arts, sports, and culture.

A new Hammitt handbag boutique—the first outside of the Los Angeles area—is now open at the Fashion Mall at Keystone.

Shopping local is always a smart choice. But shopping Indiana's high-end, luxury brands is an even smarter one.

What would summer be without a trip to the lake? Plan your escape to one of Indiana's great freshwater retreats.

Volume 16. Issue 06. (#173)

@absolutelivingmagazine

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Absolute Living

Publisher / Editor JUSTYNA PEÑA

Marketing Director EDUARDO PEÑA

Assistant Editor MATTHEW HUME

Writer SUSAN SALAZ

Photography GABRIELLE CHEIKH NOEL JES NIJJER PAOLA WILLIAMS

Art NICK PEÑA

Marketing Coordinator ISMAEL PEÑA

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The

Absolute

Living

AGENDA By Susan Salaz

July 7-17 Indiana Black Expo Summer Celebration Indiana Convention Center summercelebration.net For 51 years, the Indiana Black Expo has been hosting the annual Summer Celebration. One of the largest events of its kind in the country, the extended event showcases Black culture with education and business conferences, along with a free outdoor concert on July 15th featuring Patti LaBelle, Monica and After 7.

Opening July 3 (ongoing) Monet & Friends Alive at the LUME Newfields discovernewfields.org After a year spent immersing guests in the starry nights and sunflower fields of Van Gogh, visitors to Newfields can now find themselves among the impressionistic strokes of Monet, Renoir, Cézanne and more. Monet & Friends Alive features floor-to-ceiling interactive projections, a gallery with original artworks, and a Monetinspired café.

July 13 Petite G “3Cs” Event Petite G Jewelers petiteg.com Visit the charm bar at Petite G Jeweler’s “3Cs” event to build a customized necklace. First, pick out a chain. Then, pair it with just the right clicker (to hold the charms and chain in place). Finally, add all the desired charms needed to tell your story.

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July 27-29 Michael Feinstein Returns Feinstein’s Cabaret feinsteinshc.com Michael Feinstein returns this month to perform an all-new show at his namesake venue in Carmel’s Hotel Carmichael. The show will include classic numbers from the Great American Songbook, along with a selection of contemporary tunes, all in an intimate, elegant cabaret setting modeled after Feinstein’s/54 Below in New York City.

July 29-August 21 Indiana State Fair Indiana State Fairgrounds indianastatefair.com Experience quintessential summer fun at this year’s Indiana State Fair, where Hoosier traditions abound. For more than three weeks, take in the twirling and whirling of midway rides, free live music from national acts, vintage delights in the pioneer village, arts, crafts and animals, and all of your favorite fair food.

July 30 NPC Indianapolis Championships The Palladium indianapolischampionships.com

August 2-7 Indianapolis Indians vs. Louisville Victory Field milb.com/indianapolis

The National Physique Committee, the largest amateur bodybuilding organization in the nation, is set to hold the elite Indianapolis Championships at the Palladium in Carmel for the first time ever. This prestigious competition showcases top athletes competing in categories that include bodybuilding, physique, figure and more.

Root for the home team at Victory Field for a seven-game stretch with the Indianapolis Indians hosting divisional rivals, the Louisville Bats. Fireworks will follow the Friday night game, and the weekend games will feature MARVEL Super Hero™ Night with Captain America on Saturday, and Sunday Characters with Power Rangers.

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August 4 Animals and All That Jazz, Cathy Morris & Friends Indianapolis Zoo indianapoliszoo.com Wrap up the Indianapolis Zoo’s Thursday night concert series with a live show under the Bicentennial Pavilion that you won’t want to miss. With a unique “party jazz” style, Cathy Morris plays energetic rhythm and grooves on her electric violin in a venue like none other in town.

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Tote-ally Obsessed By Susan Salaz

A new Hammitt handbag boutique—the first outside of the Los Angeles area—is now open at the Fashion Mall at Keystone. Hammitt is marking the halls of the Fashion Mall and coming in clutch for those looking to add a classic handbag to their collection. Tucked between Saks Fifth Avenue and Restoration Hardware, what was once Purse Strings has been reinvented to exclusively offer the luxury handbag line.

ABSOLUTELIVING Photography By Paola Williams

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Paul Braun believes Hammitt has a cutting edge on its competition. "The leather that Hammitt uses is the best quality you can get anywhere."

Hitting the scene over a decade ago, Hammitt handbags have been an in-demand accessory on the coast of California (where the brand calls home) and over the shoulders of celebrities since their debut. Stunning designs and riveting details make Hammitt the future of American handbags. The ultra-soft leather and thoughtful functionality make them easy to love, and the unmatched quality and lifetime guarantee on all hardware and zippers add to the appeal, says Purse Strings owner and Fishers resident Paul Braun, who has had a storied career in fashion retail. He began carrying Hammitt in late 2019, and despite retail businesses across the world getting sent into a tailspin

during the pandemic, Hammitt quickly moved to the top of his sales charts. This led to Braun’s partnership with Hammitt at the Fashion Mall: Hammitt by Purse Strings. Tony Drockton, the enthusiastic chairman of Hammitt who refers to himself as the company’s chief cheerleader, is delighted with the newfound collaboration. "Paul quickly became one of our top national retail partners by elevating the Hammitt experience and creating a high-end shop

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Paul Braun

feel for his clients,” says the L.A. dweller. “We are excited for our partnership to evolve into an even better customer experience by opening our first local Hammitt Boutique with him as a partner.” The Fashion Mall has always been a popular shopping destination for luxury handbags, with plenty of designer brands to choose from, and while Hammitt might be the new kid on the block, it has a cutting edge on the competition. “The leather that [Hammitt] uses is the best quality you can get,” says Braun, acknowledging that many competitors have moved away from using real leather, instead opting for synthetic alternatives. He adds that the designs are fresh and different, without loud logos or big branding. The boutique will feature all the iconic favorites, including the VIP zippered crossbody clutch,

the 210 West thin leather wallet and the Hunter backpack. You’ll also find newcomers like the innovative Runyon bucket bag for your bottled drink of choice—and for clear, stadium-approved options perfect for Colts games or a night under the stars at Ruoff Music Center. While the store is dedicated to the Hammitt brand, Braun will still carry Ambre Blends, natural fragrances produced locally, as well as select men’s products. The two other Purse Strings locations, found in Clay Terrace and Hamilton Town Center, are due to remain the same, continuing to carry a wide selection of handbags, accessories and home goods. Visit Hammitt by Purse Strings in the Fashion Mall at Keystone at 8702 Keystone Crossing in Indianapolis. Find more information at pursestrings.shop online.

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Photography By Gabrielle Cheikh Noel

Artwork By Eduardo Peña

Luxury Upgrades

Carrie Holle of the Carrie Holle Group By Susan Salaz

Last July, luxury real estate professional Carrie Holle staged a career move to become the first founding principal agent for Compass, Inc., in the Indianapolis area. This month she celebrates her first successful year with the New York-based company. Carrie Holle has grown her career in real estate over the past 30 years, beginning with her involvement in the creation of her husband’s real estate brokerage in 2000. She branched out with her own boutique brand, The Carrie Holle Group, in 2014, and she opened the doors to an agency on Main Street in Carmel the following year, watching it thrive with a high-producing team. But within a few years, she plateaued. Carrie knew she had outgrown her own capacity and sought to find direction in the luxury market— and that’s when she found Compass. Founded in 2012, Compass, Inc., takes an innovative, tech-driven approach to real estate. Carrie was drawn to the luxury prowess and amazing marketing resources Compass offered, as well as the ability to learn from and connect with a nationwide network. She was ready for a change, but the choice wasn’t one she made in haste, consulting her family and team throughout the process. “It was a huge decision,” says Carrie, “and a thoughtful one.” In the end, Carrie and her team of girl bosses (who collectively sold more than $75 million last year and are on track to hit $100 million in 2022) were all eager to see for themselves what Compass could offer. The Carrie Holle Group still operates out of the same welcoming space in the Carmel Arts & Design District, but after one year on the books with Compass, they couldn’t be happier about making the move.

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Her own home in Carmel captures the essence of luxury that Carrie Holle brings to her real estate clients, with an exquisite attention to detail and topnotch quality. Carrie admits she has high standards, especially when it comes to customer service, and always gives her clients the level of service she would want herself.

Compass agrees. “It has been a privilege to work with and support Carrie Holle and her team. Carrie runs a tremendous business out of Carmel, and from our first day together she expertly leaned into Compass resources and technology in order to best support her client's real estate needs in today's market,” says Fran Broude, a regional

vice president at Compass. “Her luxury presence is exceptional, and her continued growth has been exciting to watch. The Carrie Holle Group is shaping the culture of Compass in Indiana and we look forward to many more years together," adds Broude.

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Carrie Holle, a native of Chicago and Purdue University graduate, is proud to call Carmel her home, raising her children here and dedicating herself to the town long before this career move. “I feel like I’ve helped put Carmel on the map,” says the town ambassador confidently, attesting that she is constantly promoting Carmel within her nationwide network. In 2018, she was even appointed by Mayor Brainard to the Residential Board of the Carmel Plan Commission. “It’s my favorite thing I do,” says Carrie, who admits the position comes with certain challenges and a real learning curve. “It definitely makes me a more educated, qualified real estate agent.”

With the partnership, Carrie and her team are able to pass along exceptional new benefits to their clients, like Compass Concierge, which assists sellers with upgrades and home staging without the hassle of upfront fees or interest, as well as an immense network and marketing capabilities now brought to the table. Carrie serves as a specialist among Compass brokers with the Sports & Entertainment network, offering discreet, attentive professionalism for celebrity clients. This niche helped her land the $30 million Hidden Hollow Ranch listing in southern Indiana, widely regarded as the most expensive home ever on the market in the state of Indiana. Owned by auto racing legend Tony Stewart, Hidden Hollow Ranch boasts breathtaking views indoors and out. With a private stocked lake for fishing and swimming, indoor water features that include an 8,700-gallon freshwater aquarium and a two-story waterfall that flows into a koi-filled stream, and a lower-level golf simulator room for practicing your swing, the property is a sport lover’s dream. The surreal space is perfect, too, for the outdoorsman, situated on 450 acres of forest where turkey, deer and even elk roam wild. It’s not one where an agent can just hammer a for-sale sign in the front yard. “I have had so many marketing resources at my fingertips and the support of a national luxury team,” says Carrie on the level of service Compass offers, helping create exposure for the property and allowing her to navigate the world of ultra-luxury real estate, not often found in Indiana, with ease. Her astute knowledge of the industry and reputation of excellence among her clients, along with the exposure she has earned, has catapulted Carrie to the higher career level she has been striving for over the past few years, reinforcing her decision to collaborate with Compass. “I am able to give my listings incredible exposure,” says Carrie, who has secured Wall Street Journal exclusives for recent listings, and, with the help of the Compass Luxury Division, received more than 65 million impressions on Hidden Hollow Ranch alone. She also gives tours of her listings on a regular WISH-TV segment. The Carrie Holle Group is the go-to agency for those looking to buy or sell a luxury home, but beyond the immaculate landscaping, sleek interiors and basement bowling alleys, Carrie ultimately considers herself a knowledge broker. “I feel like I've done my job when I can give [clients] all the facts and the best guidance to make an educated decision,” she says. At home in Carmel, Carrie’s husband and three sons are proud of her accomplishments and the success they know will continue. “Carrie is amazing. I honestly don’t know how she has done it and continues to do it. Somehow she finds the time to be a great mom and wife and also the hardest working Realtor in the state,” says her husband Brian Holle. He sees the work Carrie puts in for her clients and often wonders if they realize how lucky they are to have chosen her as their real estate agent. And he says that the results of her hard work and dedication are evident, adding, “When people in the market for a luxury home start thinking about buying or selling, it would be almost impossible for them not to be in contact with Carrie at some point.” You can find the Carrie Holle Group at 110 W. Main Street, just off the Monon Trail on the flower-lined streets of the Carmel Arts & Design District. Visit wearecarmelrealestate.com and follow @carriehollegroup on Instagram for more information and Carrie’s latest luxury listings. For details on Hidden Hollow Ranch, visit tourhiddenhollow.com.

ABSOLUTELIVING

By Susan Salaz

High–End. Hoosier–Made.

hopping local is a smart decision. It’s better for the environment, it stimulates the economy and it strengthens our tight-knit community. We’ve got it easy with first-rate small businesses and some of the finest retail shops around, and many well-appointed items are made here in our Hoosier state. From the delicious coldpressed Simplicity juice that will have you hooked after just one sip, to the delicate, natural fragrances by Ambre Blends—there is definitely more than corn in Indiana (but don’t discount an exquisite popcorn experience at Just Pop In!). Feel the thrill of joy-riding through the backroads on an adventurous Janus motorcycle, the calming effect of filling your home with a scent crafted just for you as you burn a Penn & Beech candle, or the indulgent delight of DeBrand Fine Chocolates. Read on for more of our favorite locally made luxuries.

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DeBrand Fine Chocolates (8685 River Crossing Boulevard, Indianapolis, 317-669-0955) Locals are lucky to have access to world-class chocolatier DeBrand close to home. “It’s really an experience like no other,” says Lori Sonner, who partnered with the Fort Waynebased company to open the chic Indianapolis chocolate shop and café almost five years ago. The swanky spot offers all of DeBrand’s signature chocolates and truffles (made from scratch, with only the finest ingredients), along with coffee drinks and ice cream sundaes. They even have a private party room for birthday parties, showers and small gatherings. “Our chocolates make the perfect gift for so many occasions,” says Lori, happy to assist with consultation and shipping for everything from corporate gifts to wedding favors. “Everyone should eat more chocolate,” she says, adding that you won’t find better, more thoughtfully produced and beautifully packaged chocolate than DeBrand.

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Penn & Beech Candle Co. (145 W. Elm Street, Carmel, pennandbeech.com) Why buy a candle from anywhere else when you can pour your own at Penn & Beech? “There is nothing wrong with falling in love with a pre-poured candle,” says marketing director Sarah Chait—and they stock those as well. But she adds, “the real magic happens when you create something that is truly custom for you.” With pure soy wax for clean burning, more than 100 unique scents and endless blending combinations, a wide variety of vessels, and even the option to create your own label—individual candles can be created to match any season or mood. The vibrant Midtown Plaza location in Carmel is the perfect spot for a date night or social event, and you can even enjoy an adult beverage while pouring.

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Simplicity Cold Pressed Juice (1101 E. 54th Street,Indianapolis, simplicityhh.com) Beth McCarthy Smith doesn’t count calories or carbs, but she does care deeply about nutrition and holistic health—an approach to wellness devoted to the whole person. Simplicity Juice, born out of her own health journey, uses only fresh, whole, raw produce, and never any additives like sugar or preservatives. “It’s just quality ingredients as close to Mother Nature as possible,” says Beth of the easily digested, crave-worthy concoctions available in cold pressed juices, cleanses, and even cocktails. The result is a difference you can not only taste, but also feel in your mind, body and soul. The sustainable company can be found just south of Broad Ripple, online or at your local grocer.

Beth McCarthy Smith

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Ambre Blends (ambreblends.com) With delicate scents that uniquely compliment individual body chemistry and an array of body care products, Ambre Blends has been perfecting the art of natural fragrance for 20 years. “The oil is the base for the entire line,” says Stephanie Harris, partner and sales director. Sourced from organic ingredients, Ambre oil is blended into five fragrant essences intended for both men and women, as well as into lush soaps and soaks, gentle spritzers and skin tonics (which Stephanie calls “a smoothie for your skin”), and even a natural deodorant, all made in Indianapolis. Shop online or at retailers nationwide, including nearby Purse Strings, 8FIFTEEN, Lola Blu Boutique and AH Collection.

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Janus Motorcycles (211 S. 5th Street, Goshen, janusmotorcycles.com) Go joyriding through the country or zip around town on a custom Janus Motorcycle, hand-built in Goshen, Indiana. These simple, yet beautiful machines draw on an enthusiasm for vintage European moped styles and a love of classic motorcycle design, says co-founder Richard Worsham. He adds that Janus Motorcycles are unlike any other bikes available—not only in aesthetics, but also in the reliability and ease of maintenance. The northern Indiana shop produces about 300 bikes annually in several models, but Richard says his favorite is their flagship Halcyon 250, which he has ridden all over the country. “We’ve built more of those than anything else, and we’ve really honed it down close to perfection,” he says.

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Just Pop In! (6406 Cornell Avenue, Indianapolis, justpopinpopcorn.com) There is more than corn in Indiana, but popcorn has a special place in Hoosier hearts, especially the gourmet goodness made at Just Pop In!, a hoppin’ spot in Broad Ripple Village. “We started as a small 500-square-foot popcorn company,” say co-founders and twin sisters Mandy Selke and Carly Swift, who opened their first shop in 2003. Almost 20 years later, they are pioneers in Indy’s “local” movement and have international appeal. Stop in the café for one of their favorites—Mandy and Carly eat the plain popcorn daily, but Indy Style (a mix between their Caramel and Sharp Yellow Cheddar popcorn) tops the charts in popularity and there are plenty playful combinations to choose from.

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Escape to the Lake What would summer be without a trip to the lake? Indiana is home to hundreds of lakes, both large and small, natural and manmade. Here we highlight some great options for your next fresh water retreat.

By Susan Salaz

Lake Monroe

Drive time: 1.5 hours Situated among a backdrop of rolling hills and dense hardwood forests, Lake Monroe is a Southern Indiana sanctuary. A boat ride is the way to enjoy it best, and Erin White at Visit Bloomington says, “For folks who want to get out on the water, we have three different marinas that offer rentals ranging from double-decker party pontoons to jet skis and smaller boats perfect for an individual family—as well as kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, canoes, and fishing boats.” Fourwinds Lakeside Inn and Marina has the best selection, along with a waterfront restaurant, lodging, and a gorgeous indoor-outdoor pool.

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Lake Wawasee Drive time: 2 hours

Tucked away near the northern Indiana town of Syracuse, Lake Wawasee is our state’s largest natural lake and has long been a favorite summer vacation destination, offering 25 miles of shoreline. The historic Oakwood Resort offers gorgeous water views and greenspace, along with luxurious rooms, lakeside homes and indulgent amenities any time of day. Experience it all, from handcrafted coffee drinks in the morning, to afternoon swim sessions off the pier, to a sunset cruise aboard the historic canal boat in the evening.

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Wasatch Lake

Drive time: 1.5 hours Wasatch Lake Retreat, set among the rolling hills and forests of Owen County, features seven fully equipped lakefront cabins and the Long House Lodge—a perfect setting for family reunions, weddings and corporate retreats. Hike miles of trails, swim, fish and canoe in the lake, play tennis or pickleball, and relax around the bonfire every evening. Owner Turner Woodard, who says Wasatch Lake has been his family gathering spot for Memorial Day and Thanksgiving for as long as he can remember, loves sharing this special place, offering a natural haven from the busy-ness of everyday life. "Just relax and leave your cares behind for a week or weekend. You don't have to go far away to get away to have a peaceful and unique experience. It's just as beautiful as you can get and it’s only one hour away from Indy," says Turner.

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Lake Maxinkuckee Drive time: 1.75 hours

The pristine waters of Lake Maxinkuckee, a glacial kettle lake formed 15,000 years ago, are popular for summer swimming and sailing, deep enough for scuba enthusiasts, and so full of fish that anglers are left in awe. Accommodations abound, but the waterfront town of Culver, nestled along the northwestern shores, is the vibrant hub of life at Lake Max and often referred to as the Cape Cod of the Midwest. Home to Culver Military Academy and Culver Girls Academy, the walkable community of Culver also boasts immaculate parks and beaches, shopping and dining, and a beautiful bike path along the lake.

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Lake Michigan

Drive time: 2.5 hours The Hoosier state might not have ocean beaches, but the south shore of Lake Michigan offers sky-high sandy dunes without the sting of saltwater. The Indiana Dunes, which includes the state’s only national park and a state park, has 70 miles of well-manicured trails perfect for all skill levels. Michelle Senderhauf, Communications Director at Indiana Dunes Tourism, says that on a clear day, the Chicago skyline can be seen from the top of Diana's Dune at West Beach. That hike and the State Park’s 3 Dune challenge can be tough, “but you're rewarded with beautiful views of the lake,” she adds.

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