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{Lexington’s Finest}

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Jan/Feb 2026

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{Lexington’s Finest}

January/February 2026

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Behind the scenes at Moda Productions’ SS26 runway of independent designers at Hôtel de Maisons, Pozzo di Borgo in Paris. Image courtesy of Moda Productions.

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Jan/Feb 2026

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on the cover:

The Thrill of the Hunt

Sophisticated Weddings The Trove A Golden Opportunity The Thrill of the Hunt Power to the Pattern Greener Pastures Ones to Watch Curves Ahead Vroom Vroom Rooms Cheers to the New Year! Happy in Healdsburg Clutch Players Cupid’s Choice Highpoint Highlights Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club Society Calendar ‘She Is Empowered’ Soiree LLF Annual Celebration Night on Wall Street Go Red for Women Brunch’n with the Arts Hollyday Market Farm to Fork EmpowHER Brunch Crafting with a Queen Medicinal Whiskey Winter Gala LV Harkness Holiday Tea Sexual Health in 2026

FURNITURE • ART • DECOR SOURCED IN FRANCE, ENGLAND, & ITALY Showroom inside Thoroughbred Antique Gallery 637 E Main St, Lexington, KY 40508 IG: @kimhitesantiques www.kimhitesantiques.com

From the Associate Publisher

There’s something magical about the heart of winter in the Bluegrass. As the start of the new year brings with it the promise of new beginnings and the season’s stillness settles in, we’re given an invitation to rest, reflect, and welcome what’s to come. In this same spirit of possibility, I’m thrilled to join Sophisticated Living as Associate Publisher of the Lexington edition. Lexington is my home, and the opportunity to connect with the businesses, creators, and visionaries who make this city extraordinary feels like a natural extension of everything I love about our city. It’s our privilege to illuminate the designers, tastemakers, proprietors, and culinary artists who define our city’s character—and to share their stories with you. This issue marks the Lexington edition’s 16th anniversary, and what an honor it is to provide you with a beautiful portrait of our city at its finest. From restaurateurs crafting unforgettable dining experiences, our hoteliers creating stunning, enveloping sanctuaries, and the artisans and curators elevating our everyday moments into something remarkable — these are the stories and people you’ll discover on our pages. Lexington has a signature energy that deserves to be celebrated, and we’ll be sharing it alongside Sophisticated Living’s award-winning content highlighting what’s new and notable around the world. We invite you into this celebration of our passion for exceptional craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and those elevated moments that enrich our lives. We’re not just documenting Lexington’s evolution —we’re celebrating it, championing it, and growing right alongside it. As our exceptional community of contributors grows with each issue, you’ll discover more of what makes our city shimmer—the talents you’ll want to know, the destinations that will become your new favorites, and the experiences that will become part of your story. Welcome to Sophisticated Living, Lexington. We’d love to hear from you as we continue building something beautiful together. Collectively, we’re not just reading about beauty—we’re creating it, living it, and writing the next chapter of what makes our home truly unforgettable. Here’s to a New Year filled with fresh starts and to the brilliant people who make Lexington shine. With gratitude and excitement for the journey ahead,

Lee Milward Lee Milward Associate Publisher, Lexington lee@slmag.net

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EDITOR - IN - CHIEF Bridget Cottrell ______________________________________________ ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Lee Milward ART DIRECTOR Jason Yann CONTRIBUTORS Writers Patti Bailey Jennifer Brian Matthew Cottrell Tracy Cottrell Vicki Denig Colin Dennis Elliott Greene Claire Williams Photographers Tony Bailey Chad Henle J.L. Jordan Kate Leichhardt Daniel Roberts Erica Sharp Ashley Stinson Bill Wine ADVERTISING SALES OFFICE 502.582.6563 ______________________________________________ CEO/PUBLISHER Eric Williams Sophisticated Living is published by Sophisticated Living, LLC, P.O. BOX 1229, Prospect, Kentucky 40059 USA. All Rights Reserved. Sophisticated Living is published six times a year. All images and editorial are the property of Sophisticated Living, LLC and cannot be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission. Annual subscription fees are $25.00; please add $5 for subscriptions outside the US. Single copies may be purchased for $5 at select fine retail outlets. Address all subscription inquiries to: Sophisticated Living, PO Box 1229, Prospect, KY 40059. To order back issues or reprints of 100 or more, call 502.582.6563.

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SOPHISTICATED WEDDINGS

SAMANTHA FARISH + ROSS ROSENSTEIN Photography by Jenny Losee

Sometimes, family knows best. For Sammy Farish and Ross Rosenstein, their origin story as a couple traces back to 2022, when Ross’s sister hosted a dinner party with a covert intention of introducing them to one another. After two years of dating, Ross proposed at her family’s farm, Lanes End. “We drove out

to Versailles early and went on a walk before heading up to my grandparents’ house,” recalled Sammy. “On our walk and at one of my favorite spots on the farm, Ross proposed! When we walked up for dinner, we were surprised by both of our families and spent the evening celebrating.” slmag.net

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The October 2025 wedding was held at The Gasparilla Inn in Boca Grande, Florida, a place of special significance to Sammy. “Luckily, selling that to Ross was easy!” she recalled. Sammy’s great-grandfather, Bayard Sharp, acquired the property in 1961. “We lost my grandmother [Sarah Sharp Farish] a little less than two months after our wedding,” said Sammy. “I’m so grateful that she was able to be there with us. She spent her life making the Inn the special place that it is today.” A multi-day celebration, Sammy said the couple wanted their wedding to “feel timeless and intimate,” inspired by the island’s natural beauty. “I kept our ceremony simple aside from 16 slmag.net

our beautiful Chuppah so that the beauty of the golf course could be seen all around us. The tent turned out to be my favorite part of our wedding day. The florals and decor were beyond my wildest dreams and made a big tent feel warm, cozy, and intimate.” “It was truly the best weekend of our lives,” said Sammy, adding that she wouldn’t have changed a thing. “There is something so special about bringing all of your friends and family from around the world to a destination to spend a weekend together. Sharing our favorite place with all our favorite people was so much fun.” sl Key Details: Venue: Gasparilla Inn; Photography: Jenny Losee; Videographer: iHeart Films; Florist: Botanica Design Studio; Invitations: Dogwood Hill; Dress: Enaura

The

Trove

Slope

Style

Clockwise from top left: SRG by Sofia Richie Grainge Waldo striped cashmere sweater and scarf ($550; revolve.com). OMEGA Black Edition Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 9900 ($16,100; available through Schiffman’s Jewelers; schiffmans.com). For the fourth time in history, the Olympic Games are coming to Italy. The winter events in Milano and Cortina will begin on February 6th, 2026, and once again, OMEGA will fulfil its vital role as Official Timekeeper. Snuggle Babushka from Lack of Color ($129; lackofcolor.com). Gucci Softbit tote bag ($4,100; gucci.com). Louis Vuitton LV Frost ski mask ($1,580; us.louisvuitton.com). Baobab I Love Ski Max 35 Candle ($860; us.baobabcollection.com). Yves Delorme Léopard bathrobe ($395; usa.yvesdelorme.com). Men’s Dixon short parka from Nobis Outerwear ($1,095; nobis.com). Lingua Franca “don’t hide your magic” Maxine cashmere sweater ($380; linguafranca.nyc). Hermes Equestre scarf ($660; hermes.com). Bogner Sport Bond ski trousers in Beige ($1,050; bogner.com). Cleo shearling boot from Gorsuch ($1,398; gorsuch.com). Miu Miu Shearling ballerinas in Desert Beige ($1,220; miumiu.com).

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Soak Up the Sun

Clockwise from top left: Orlebar Brown Luminis men’s mid-length swim shorts ($445; orlebarbrown.com). Johanna Ortiz off white Island Rhythms one-piece swimsuit ($450; johannaortiz.com). EZZ Studios Jude Rouille top ($286) & Barell Rouille pant ($535; ezzstudios.com). Marco Bicego Lunaria Mixed Gemstone Collar Necklace in 18K Yellow Gold ($10,800.00). Available at Schiffman’s Jewelers-Fritz Farm (schiffmans.com). Elae perfume from Trudon ($280; trudon.com). Tocca Saint Tropez candle ($50; tocca.com). Chloe Woody Mule ($550; chloe.com). Johanna Ortiz Roots wrap linen mini skirt ($495; johannaortiz.com). Moda Domus Trompe l’Oeil ceramic heart dish ($300; modaoperandi.com). Sarah Bray Bermuda Geranium Sun Hat ($95; sarahbraybermuda.com). Matteau relaxed shirt ($420) and Nineties classic brief ($150; int.matteau-store.com). Sensi Studio Two Tone Bag ($438; sensistudio.com). Frescobol Carioca Antonio men’s linen shirt in Cedar Gray ($295; frescobolcarioca.com). Thom Browne flip-up sunglasses ($950; thombrowne.com).

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A GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY

The member’s only Golden Skep at The Apiary is creating quite a buzz. Written by Bridget Cottrell / Photos courtesy of The Apiary Think about the single thread that connects some of our favorite hospitality experiences, close to home and away, and you’re likely to find commonality in the way these places appeal to all the senses. Signature scents, intriguing and enviable interior design, inventive cuisine, and a sense of welcome that’s as intuitive and genuine as a bear hug from an old friend cements their vaunted stature and beckons us back again and again. For over a decade, The Apiary has been creating these memorable moments in spades, pivoting with the times with the precision of a point guard to maintain balance and make quick, smart decisions that keep it at the forefront of elevated entertaining in Lexington. Incubated for nearly three years, The Apiary’s newest offering, Golden Skep, is a private membership club 20 slmag.net

that offers a chosen few privileged weekly access to custom-tailored experiences. “It’s an extension of our mission to bring people together to experience authentic connection and build a sense of community,” said Cooper Vaughan, founder of The Apiary. Then, as now, the guest experience is carefully crafted to unfold like the chapters of a page-turner, authored by Vaughan to be “a haven for those who want to experience beautiful moments.” Golden Skep members are privy to weekly Thursday Golden Skep lounge dinners that are well-orchestrated yet intimate, with a seasonally derived menu that remains in a state of constant evolution so that, if you desire, no two dinners are ever the same (except for the exacting service Vaughan’s team is known for).

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Upon arrival, an ivy-clad brick wall around the Apiary’s perimeter acts as a beguiling cover, while forged wrought iron gates crafted by the metalworkers at Maynard Studios are compelling opening lines. Hooked on the unfolding narrative, you dive deeper, approaching the marble-fronted bar in the Apiary’s cozy solarium and ordering a craft cocktail, while likely recognizing a familiar face or two. Apiary prides itself on offering members world-class cocktails and wines, each crafted in a bespoke manner and designed to complement the boutique atmosphere. Signatures like the Southern Harvest Old Fashioned, built on pecan-infused bourbon, reflect an approach rooted in intention, originality, and craft. Rustic and elegant, the multi-layered Winter Room is arguably Lexington’s chicest living room. Intimate seating areas, oriented around a black marble hearth and stone chimney breast, are anchored by a vibrant Heriz rug. Blooms and branches of an oversized floral display, reflective of the seasons, nearly touch the arcing arms of a painted-metal coral chandelier. The apex of this opus is the dramatic 22 slmag.net

Orangery, where brick walls are broken up by 18-foot-tall windows accentuated by antique French shutters and crowned by a 10-foot by 30-foot skylight. At night, the candlelit space is absolutely magical. In warmer months, guests can linger outside in the surrounding courtyard before or after dinner, where a pair of antique stone fountains imported from Europe mask street noise. The alfresco scene remains beguiling in all seasons, courtesy of a mix of raised seasonal beds and evergreen plantings that have benefited from a decade of growing seasons. The seeds for the Golden Skep were sown during COVID, when a separate private membership option, known as The Hive, first provided fine-dining-quality food to go before morphing into socially distant dinners with ample ambiance in the Orangery. “We provided a pre-COVID level of connection that people were looking for without having to put guests behind plexiglass,” recalled Vaughan. As the world began to open up again, The Hive dinners evolved into OMAGE, what Vaughan refers to as their “crown jewel’ of

in-house events. For these themed, eight-course tasting dinners, The Apiary is completely and fantastically transformed by Mea Vaughan and her creative team to mirror the theme, which has ranged from Dia De Los Muertos to Thailand and the Alps, employing a multisensory approach to make guests feel transported. Vaughan said these events, which also encompass their annual Christmas high tea and OMAGE Soirees, allow his team to flex their creative muscles. “While we strive to deliver Michelin-level food and service on and off-site, because of scale, catering has more limiting factors, so our in-house events are all about honoring the craft and really trying to be as authentic as possible,” he explained. Vaughan added that his culinary team, led by Culinary Director Tony Yalnazov, who has been with him since the beginning, and Executive Chef Catesby Simpson, is unique and seasoned to thrive in these special circumstances. “These events keep our entire staff fresh, excited, active, and engaged,” he said, adding that the experimentation can also help inform future catering menus.

While not as over-the-top as the OMAGE offerings, Vaughan said the Thursday Golden Skep Lounge dinners boast a similar level of consideration and execution. “All of our creative resources and staff are uniquely focused on that one dinner to offer culinary ‘wow’ moments you can typically only find in larger metropolitan areas,” he elucidated. Whereas Vaughan regards other private clubs in Lexington functioning as “third spaces,” he said Golden Skep dinners are designed to be a oncea-week respite that feels like coming home. The Thursday timing, he added, allows guests to “ease into the weekend.” Having personally experienced a recent dinner, there’s an intentional, “Cheers”-like atmosphere where staff not only know a member’s name but also how they like their martini or the preferred temperature of their steak. These are tailored moments for a discerning clientele, just how Vaughan prefers it. sl In addition to the Thursday dinners, Golden Skep members get preferential access and pricing to The Apiary’s other special events, including OMAGE, Asado, and Secret Suppers. Find more information at the-apiary.com/membership.

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A 19th-century English metal dog statue on marble with framed document.

THE THRILL OF THE HUNT

An antiquarian muses on the passionate pursuit of pieces inspired by the sporting life. Written by Kim Hites / All pieces shown available at Kim Hites Antiques at the Thoroughbred Antique Gallery Imagine slow, cold breathing in the quiet stillness of a quail hunt at dawn or the excitement of barking hounds, horse hoofs striking the ground with the sound of a hunting horn signaling an early morning fox hunt. This imagery embodies the refined sporting life through various forms of hunting throughout history. When we refer to “the hunt scene” in antiques, it is a literal depiction of hunting in art and objets d’art. Various forms of bird and fox hunting scenes can be found in many different mediums, ranging from artwork (paintings and engravings) to porcelain, bronze, and brass amongst other items. Much of what we consider the sporting life has its origins in Great Britain from the 16th century onward, before being popularized in the United States in the 19th century. Early British bird-hunting traditions were diverse and strongly shaped by class. Historic pheasant and quail hunting became a cornerstone of British and American sporting traditions. The 19th century shaped the modern sporting era of bird hunting. Central to British estate culture, the pheasant sport in Victorian Britain was driven by ﬁrearm shooting and the use of “flushing” dogs such as spaniels, setters, and retrievers. It provided food, employment, and the social status of the day. While pheasant shooting was chiefly British, quail hunting became iconic in the United States, especially in the South, and was often conducted with point dogs. Hunters walked or rode horseback behind dogs that froze on point. Often, a “folk bird” before ﬁrearms, it was hunted for subsistence. With the rise of pointing dogs, it 24 slmag.net

quickly became a gentleman’s sport and is considered one of the most “classic” American upland hunts. For more than three centuries, the mounted fox hunt was one of Britain’s deﬁning rural rituals, a thrilling blend of sport, social display, and countryside management. From humble beginnings as a form of pest control, it evolved into the most glamorous field sport of the aristocracy and, in doing so, became one of the richest subjects in British art. The Victorian and Edwardian eras marked the golden age of hunting, with elaborate hunt breakfasts, mounted parting toasts of brandy, and a hosted tea or luncheon afterward. It embodied a strict social hierarchy that turned every meet into a pageant of rural privilege. No other British sport has inspired so much art as fox hunting. From the mid-1750s onward, painters and printmakers chronicled the drama of the chase, the beauty of horses and the foxhounds, and the glamour of the participants. From gleaming silver stirrup cups to porcelain tea service sets, from silver trophies to hunting portraits and brass horns, these pieces remind us of the sporting lifestyle. The sporting life is synonymous with pomp and pageantry...a regal nod to the nobility of the past. Steeped in excellence, sporting traditions have been preserved as a timeless legacy of reﬁnement. The sporting scene genre has carved out a prominent place in antique art and décor, and the fascination and love of the hunt have created an idyllic, romanticized visualization that remains classic in today’s interiors. Whether you’re a collector or just an avid admirer, there is something for everyone. sl

A 19th-century English metal dog statue on marble with framed document.

Pewter stirrup cups from Lexington Silver Co., vintage brass horse bookends on marble, and a pair of 19th-century Scottish horse martingales.

A vintage tray on fiberglass.

Mid-century vinyl tray with foxes and a pair of early 20th-century brass hunting horn candle holders.

Set of MCM snooty fox glasses. A pair of Victorian English brass letter holders.

An early 20th-century English leather horse, and early 20th-century English silver plate trophies.

Detail of a framed colored English engraving of a fox hunt. Hunting scenes plates by Wedgwood and a vintage brass horn.

Wool needlepoint pillow, an early 20th-century English silver plate trophy, and a European deer shed.

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POWER TO THE PATTERN

Self-professed maximalist interior designer Isabel Ladd employs her penchant for punchiness within a traditionalist framework. Written by Bridget Cottrell / Photos by Andrew Kung

“They’re like my favorite people,” gushed interior designer Isabel Ladd about her long-term clients Christa and Josh Marrillia. From the outside, it would seem that the couple, who had reached out to Ladd shortly after she hung out her shingle nearly a decade ago, wouldn’t be drawn to the loud, maximalist palette she is known for these days. In case you haven’t been on Instagram lately, Ladd’s “scroll stopping” interiors have made her a household name among fans of maximalist design, leading to collaborations with Café Appliances, Perennials Fabrics, and Spoonflower, as well as being tapped to showcase her vibrant, layered approach at the Kip’s Bay Showhouse in Dallas and at The Harmon Room in Lexington’s 21c Museum Hotel. However, ten years ago, as a new-to-the-market independent designer, she took a chance by saying “yes” to a three-room contract with the Marrillias, knowing that she’d have to find a happy medium between their traditional tastes and her “more is more” philosophy. Ladd recounts that as an extremely organized, “Type A” personality, she delivers a completely finished room “with a bow on 26 slmag.net

it,” down to the cachepots for houseplants and even a catchall tray for keys if called for. “I make sure that the budget I am given accounts for every last detail,” she explained. In the Marrillia home, Ladd’s muted maximalism meant working within a tighter color palette primarily focused on shades of the homeowner’s preferred hue: blue, which also became their “safe word” when they felt a design proposal strayed too far outside their comfort zone. “People associate maximalism with throwing everything against the wall to see what sticks, but we actively bantered off of one another throughout,” said Ladd, adding that she’d joke with them by saying, “buckle up, I am about to show you some greens.” Blue makes an appearance as soon as you cross the threshold, with the stair risers sporting a lacquered robin’s egg shade that’s repeated in the artwork and on the wallpaper that signifies a “secret bar.” The need to add support beams during the renovation created a nook in a hallway, enabling Ladd to add a “wow” moment when the doors open to reveal a lacquered orange interior.

Interior designer Isabel Ladd

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While it’s grounded in a subdued base of grasscloth-covered walls in an au courant colorway reminiscent of “Cloud Dancer,” Pantone’s 2026 Color of the Year, the living room is the liveliest, with a gallery-style art installation framing a deep blue velvet sofa. “I haven’t done a neutral sofa in ten years,” joked Ladd. Contrasting tape trim on the sofa’s skirt is one of no fewer than seven patterns in the room—from the floral pattern on the lampshades to the diamond-motif rug—that happily coexist, as the use of different scales and styles adds depth and visual interest. The dining room also nods to tradition with neutral walls, simple linen drapery, and antique furnishings. The client’s existing lyre-back chairs were already painted a soft blue, to which Ladd lent her signature Scalamandré Tigre silk/velvet on accent pillows placed on each of the captain’s chairs. She topped the table with a bold block-print tablecloth and crowned a pair of cloisonne lamps with pleated chartreuse shades to add pops of panache. Completely renovated in collaboration with Creative Kitchen and Bath, the kitchen required creative space planning, 30 slmag.net

namely, placing the island on a diagonal to create optimal flow and efficiency. Antiqued mirror in the upper cabinet doors and a light blue finish on the island break up the predominance of white cabinetry. For the window valance above the sink, Ladd selected Schumacher’s Shirala Paisley fabric in the Berry colorway, carrying through an oft-repeated accent color. A spacious three-season room flirts with pattern on the upholstery and throw pillows, while staying in the traditional lane with wicker and cane furniture. A blue rug and a painted cornflower blue door create continuity with the interiors. The limestone pavers extend to an outdoor terrace with a fireplace and landscape designed by Jon Carloftis. “Vibes, more than anything else, are more important to me when starting with a new client,” explained Ladd, adding that beginning with just a few rooms, as she did with the Marrillias, gives both parties space to assess the working relationship. “I was happy to ease them in because they were willing to trust the process by respecting my vision and giving me the space to be creative,” said Ladd. sl

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Photo by Jack Hardy

GREENER PASTURES After a comprehensive renovation, Ireland's Adare Manor, host of the 2027 Ryder Cup, is ready to shine for a global audience. Written by Bridget Cottrell Ireland is a different kind of green. Even Johnny Cash, famously dubbed "The Man in Black," pined for the moorlands and the midlands in his gravelly bass-baritone for the song "Forty Shades of Green." I like to think that the verdancy of the Emerald Isle is Mother Nature's consolation prize for frequent rain and cloud cover, creating a beguiling beauty of a landscape renowned for scores of scenic walking and hiking routes and a passionate golf culture dating back to the mid-19th century The latter will put Ireland at the epicenter of the world golf stage when the 2027 Ryder Cup comes to Adare Manor in County Limerick from September 13-19, marking only the second time the prestigious event has been held in the country. While the lead-up no doubt will be enough to prompt golfers of all abilities to add the storied property to their travel bucket list, one would be remiss in thinking that the Adare Manor's manicured greens are the sole attraction. Current estimates put the number of castles and castle ruins in Ireland at 30,000, second only to France, which has 45,000. And, while it certainly bears all the hallmarks of a castle, Adare Manor, named after the adjacent storybook village, is actually

an opulent family manor house. It sits on an 842-acre parcel of land (just one acre shy of Central Park) with a settlement history dating back to the 12th century. Construction of the manor house commenced in 1832 under the auspices of Lady Caroline Wyndham, who was inspired by the cathedrals of Europe and passionate about Gothic architecture. Interestingly, Caroline's husband, Wyndham Henry Quinn, the second Earl of Dunraven, was a descendant of a modest landowner named Donagh Quinn, who in the 1600s laid the foundation for his family's ascent from humble beginnings to nobility. A great many of the world's castles and great estates seem to share stories of rise and ruin, and Adare Manor is no different. In 1897, Adare Manor hosted the Duke of New York, later King George V, cementing its status as one of Ireland's greatest estates. The expense of maintaining the estate weighed heavily on subsequent generations, and Adare Manor gradually fell into disrepair. In 1982, the seventh Earl, unable to afford its upkeep, sold the property to a group of investors who, five years later, sold it to Tom Kane, a stockbroker from New York City. slmag.net

Adare Manor’s Great Hall, a grand reception area, now serves as the hotel’s lobby. Photo by Paul Lehane

Kane made considerable investments to transform the property into a 62-room luxury hotel. He turned 230 acres over to Robert Trent Jones to create an 18-hole golf course, which went on to host back-to-back Irish Opens in 2007 and 2008, but failed to attract the desired large number of American golfers. Enter JP McManus, described by my airport driver as "a local lad from Limerick." McManus' own ascent from humble laborer in his father's contracting business to a billionaire mirrored Donagh Quinn's rise. He acquired the property in 2015 with the intent of attracting one of golf's most high-profile events, the Ryder Cup, and, in turn, celebrate his hometown before a global audience. A 22-month renovation, employing some 800 workers from mostly local firms, touched every space within the original structure and added a ballroom and a new wing with 41 bedrooms. Just as significant was the remaking of the parkland golf course. McManus retained Tom Fazio, his senior design associate Tom Marzolf, and a team of 150 professionals to reimagine Jones' original course without rerouting any holes. Frequent Irish rain showers will be a non-issue courtesy of a SubAir turf management system, sand-capped fairways and roughs, and more than 50 miles of drainage pipe. As part of Adare Manor's lineup of complimentary activities, on Mondays, guests can tour the final 34 slmag.net

holes of the golf course (and take a shot or two). According to an overview in the in-room newsletter, the par 5, 9th hole is the longest at 633 yards. "It rewards bravery and punishes greed," Andy McMahon, Director of Golf Operations. Even if you're not gaga for Gothic, and its more is better ornamentation, you can't help but appreciate the craftsmanship, particularly in the original section, which is a rare example of a 'Calendar House,' meaning it has 365 leaded windows, 52 ornate chimneys, seven stone pillars, and four towers. Walking to my accommodation in the historic wing, I became a bit concerned when, turning a corner, the ceiling height lowered, temporarily leading me to imagine being squirreled away in an old maid's quarters. As soon as the door opened, my fears vanished at the revelation of the spacious room's vaulted ceiling and tall leadedglass windows overlooking the manicured parterre. A half-wall separated the sleeping area from dual vanities, a deep-soaking tub, and a pair of towering wardrobes. Feeling a bit like Alice, I pushed open a curiouser and curiouser small door, which revealed the water closet with a shower and a modern toile hunting scene wallpaper. In keeping with the rest of the hotel, form and function receive equal billing, creating an ethereal equilibrium that appeases everyone from antique aficionados to technophiles.

Breakfast and afternoon high are served in 132-foot-long Gallery, filled with works of art collected over time by the Dunraven family during tours of Britain and Northern Europe.

Dunraven king stateroom. Photo by Jack Hardy

Bathroom in a Dunraven stateroom. Photo by Jack Hardy

Sitting room in the Lady Caroline Signature Suite. Photo by Jack Hardy

Sitting room in the Lady Augusta Signature Suite. Photo by Jack Hardy

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Infinity pool in the Padel Club. Photo by Paul Lehane

Falconry is one of many on-site pursuits historically befitting a sporting estate. Photo by Bridget Cottrell

Willie Forde has been leading Irish gundog experiences since the mid-1970s.

After decimating the stash of Irish shortbread cookies in my room's complementary snack and refreshment station, I sank into the cloudlike bed for a quick jetlag-busting nap, interrupted by the clippity-clop of horse hooves on the cobblestones beneath my window. My regal repose inspired a self-indulgent moment of imagining myself as a middle-aged Rapunzel, letting down my hair for rescue by a knight in shining armor on horseback. But alas, the dream was short-lived, as the crank windows wouldn't allow me to poke my head out. Not content with simply creating one of the best golf courses in Ireland, McManus also elevated Adare Manor's culinary program. In 2019, the Oak Room, under the direction of Chef Mike Tweedie, became the first-ever Michelin Star restaurant in County Limerick. The candlelit setting is as refined as the tasting menu that celebrates the best of what's local with decadent flourishes. The thoughtfully compiled wine list affords a unique pairing experience, while those who choose to abstain from alcohol can opt for deliberate mocktail pairings. Lady Caroline assuredly possessed a taste for life's finer things, drawing inspiration from Versailles to create The Gallery, a 132-foot-long cathedral-like space with delicate tracery windows and 17th-century Flemish choir stalls. But unlike the "tone-deaf" reputation of Marie Antoinette, during the Irish famine, Lady Caroline established a school of needlework to support local women. Today, a bounteous breakfast buffet and elevated afternoon tea, served on bespoke china designed to match the detail of the ceiling inset, are hosted in the grandiose space. 36 slmag.net

A glass-walled yoga studio in the Padel Club seems to float above the trees. Photo by Paul Lehane

The Carriage House. Photo by Bridget Cottrell

Bespoke draperies fashioned from 18th-century French brocatelle match the opulence of The Drawing Room, which serves morning coffee and light meals and refreshments throughout the day. The subterranean Tack Room is a chic and cozy spot for elevated craft cocktails. Whiskey hounds can arrange a tasting from Adare Manor's library of more than 160 rare bottles procured from around the world. Oenophiles can book a similar experience in the private wine cellar. A short stroll leads to The Carriage House, an impressive space with a greenhouse-like glass-walled dining room overlooking the golf course, a lawn hosting the whimsical "Adare Bear," the largest figurative bronze sculpture ever made in Ireland, and an adjacent walled garden where roses tumble over the granite walls. Here, amid the subtle touches of Art Deco, I enjoyed my idea of a "girl dinner": beef tartare and a Negroni. Slightly further still is Harry Lowes Cottage, a historic stone cottage-turned-chocolaterie named in honor of its last resident. This chocoholic's dream opened in 2024 exclusively for guests. In addition to the most gorgeous retail space, it offers guided chocolate tastings, conducted similarly to a wine tasting, where you learn to discern a coca bean's terroir. With a relatively tiny footprint for an operation that uses two tons of chocolate annually, the kitchen, under the direction of French chocolatier Cedric Rivière, employs state-of-theart technology to go beyond chocolate bars and bonbons to create complex architectural pieces, including a scale replica of the Adare Bear. Just outside the estate's stone walls lies the charming Adare Village, complete with thatched-roof cottages, a community park,

The Oak Room. Photo by Jack Hardy

Exploring colorful confections at Harry Lowes.

In 2020, the Oak Room, under the direction of Chef Mike Tweedie, became the first-ever Michelin Star restaurant in County Limerick.

the ruins of Desmond Castle, the 13th-century Triniarian Abbey, shops from couture (Aoife Mc Namara) to kitsch, and no shortage of pubs, including Pat Collins Bar, Aunty Lena's, and Bill Chawke's Bar. Back on property, Deirdre Moore, Adare Manor's boutique manager, sources luxury sustainable handicrafts and oversees a bespoke collaboration with storied Irish clothing brand Jack Murphy. There is more to Adare Manor than dining, although I could have happily filled my days by consuming my weight in warm Irish soda bread generously lathered with salted butter. Pursuits include those historically befitting a sporting estate—falconry, shooting, carriage rides, archery, fishing—alongside modern interests like Padel. The contemporary and architecturally striking Padel Club opened in 2021 as a center of wellness and recreation. The facility encompasses two custom-built indoor padel courts (the first of their kind in Ireland), a 17m infinity pool with sauna and steam room, a glass-walled yoga studio that seems to float above the trees, a massive fitness room, and a sports simulation room with a swanky lounge for waiting your turn. An absolute highlight of our myriad outdoor activities was the Irish gundog experience with Willie Forde, who founded Adare Country Pursuits in 1975. In addition to being a masterclass in obedience training, Forde dished out plenty of life lessons. "Dogs become self-employed very easily if not trained properly," he said, stressing the importance of consistency, something that applies to both man and beast. It's little surprise that Ireland's lush landscape has given rise to fairies, Leprechauns, and elves. Near the Carriage House, a

The architecturally significant Gallery is adorned with five remarkable stained glass windows designed by Thomas Willement, heraldic artist to King George IV. Photo by Bridget Cottrell.

lovely woodland meditation walk is also a fairy forest, complete with little buildings, miniatures, and signs with poetry. It's also an excellent place for rambunctious kids to burn off some pent-up energy and delight in discovering a menagerie of ogre-like wire sculptures engaging in various hijinks from golf to serving a platter of forest delicacies. Even if you aren't sore from your first padel lesson, as I was, The Spa at Adare Manor — the only outpost of the acclaimed London brand 111Skin in Ireland — is a restorative destination for an hour or an afternoon. The cocoon-like space is a haven for relaxation, with a private pool and infrared sauna, a relaxation room with starrysky illumination, and a unique menu of face and body treatments inspired by ancient Celtic wisdom and its Ogham alphabet. In a place that garners no shortage of superlatives, I appreciated the focused attention to even the most minor details, for instance, the thick stock of the in-room stationery and the custom monogram imprinted on the head of my Guinness. However, amid all the luxurious amenities, time and again I found myself transfixed by the landscape and the simple in-room pleasure of admiring how the clouds cast shadows on the verdant lumps and bumps of the meticulous golf greens, playing out like a time-lapse video. "This charming spot was my home of unclouded happiness for 40 years," wrote Lady Caroline. "May heaven's choice blessings be poured with equal abundance on its present and future possessors." The fair lady would no doubt be pleased to see the joyful legacy of her treasured family assured for generations to come. sl For more information, visit AdareManor.com.

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ONES TO WATCH Moda Productions opens Paris’s most exclusive runways to independent designers Photos courtesy of Moda Productions

Mazini

NÜ CZN

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Alersundi

Aleen Sabbah

Molmauni

JEEVAN

Ragged Romances

Sagio

RAXXY

This past Paris Fashion Week, Hôtel de Maisons, Pozzo di Borgo was abuzz as Moda Productions staged a group SS26 runway of independent designers. Each show represented a single thread of a larger garment that celebrated individuality, craftsmanship, and modern femininity. Sophisticated Living was thrilled to have a frontrow seat to the future of fashion, and a reflection of the creative world Moda intends to build across Europe’s fashion capitals.

SAGIO by Alexander Sagio Living and working in Budapest, Alexander Sagio draws on his background in architecture to create sharply intelligent designs. The SAGIO woman embodies power, sensuality, and a sense of balance—a modern vision built on contrasts: soft yet structured, restrained yet daring. His collection featured architectural minimalism brought to life through fluid tailoring and sculptural silhouettes. Sagio’s ability to blend intellect with allure makes his presentation a study in strength—clean, magnetic, and unforgettable.

Jeevan by Hussain Rehar The designer showcased clean structures and precise linework, highlighting meticulous surface details that reflected both tradition and contemporary influences. The color palette felt both grounded and sophisticated, weaving together cultural richness in a modern, urban style. Each tailored piece exuded a calm confidence, allowing the skill in technique and craft to shine through. The overall effect was an elegant exploration of simplicity and sophistication, in which the quality of craftsmanship conveyed a subtle form of power.

Alersundi by Alejandra Lersundi From Mexico to Paris, Alejandra Lersundi brought glamour with discipline. Her Alersundi Collection shimmered with the elegance of redcarpet heritage, gowns that honored tradition while celebrating the freedom of form. Each look was made-toorder and hand-finished with hours of intricate craftsmanship that translated effortlessly onto the runway. In Paris, Lersundi showed that true sophistication is found in the balance between beauty and intention.

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MAZINI by Maria Mazina Marking its 10th anniversary, Ukrainian label MAZINI delivered an ode to elegance — a masterclass in tailoring and timeless design. Founded by Maria Mazina and guided by brand director Tatiana Prosnitskaya, the brand embodies quiet authority through impeccable fit and natural fabrics. The collection speaks to women who lead with grace and strength, using suiting as soft armor and silhouettes that move seamlessly between the boardroom and the boulevard. MAZINI’s Paris debut was not just a milestone; it was a portrait of resilience, crafted with the precision and spirit of Ukrainian artistry. 40 slmag.net

NÜ CZN by Judy and Nikki Murdock Founded by acclaimed Hollywood makeup artist Judy Murdock alongside her daughter Nicole “Nikki” Murdock, the brand blends cinematic precision with streetwise luxury. Their SS26 collection featured gender-fluid tailoring and upcycled fabrics crafted into bold, expressive silhouettes that moved with confidence and emotion. With its mix of artistry, rebellion, and refinement, NÜ CZN’s Paris debut captured the essence of modern identity and sustainability— transforming raw energy into elevated design and redefining what it means to be a true citizen of style.

Aleen Sabbagh Aleen Sabbagh made a graceful and heartfelt debut, presenting a collection that embodied soulful couture grounded in care and conscience. With a focus on longevity and emotional connection, Aleen’s work redefined what modern luxury means, where sustainability meets sentiment and beauty becomes an act of responsibility. Her SS26 collection was a quiet triumph of refinement and purpose, inviting the audience to see couture not only as fashion but as a living expression of empathy, artistry, and enduring grace.

RAXXY by William Shen The SS26 collection revealed RAXXY’s signature language of structure and sensitivity—where technology meets artistry, and precision breathes with purpose. It was a study in controlled beauty that transformed down-filled design into living sculptures. It is a vision of modern luxury built on intellect, emotion, and craft in perfect equilibrium.

MOLMAUNI x Nuki Cosmetics Molmauni x Nuki presented a moving and poetic debut, revealing a collection that felt like a quiet symphony of strength and grace. The collaboration embodied a duet of gentle power and radiant beauty, where fluid silhouettes were shaped with emotional precision and understated confidence. With luminous fabrics, sculpted lines, and a profoundly human sensibility, Molmauni x Nuki celebrated the woman who remains centered—resilient, expressive, and softly commanding in her own light.

Rosii Nguyen & Ragged Romances Rosii Nguyen and Ragged Romances brought a breath of light and emotion with a collection that reimagined bridalwear through movement, color, and joy. Their presentation unveiled color-lit gowns with layered sheers, painterly dyes, and buoyant tulle that shaped stories into silhouettes. Each piece felt expressive and candid, capturing the spirit of love in flux—playful yet profound, spontaneous yet intentional. The collection radiated a joy-forward energy that transformed tradition into art, offering a vision of modern romance that was as heartfelt as it was luminous. slmag.net

CURVES AHEAD Compiled by Bridget Cottrell

Clockwise from top left: TEJEN Rock Sugar Croissant Pendant (tejen-collection.com). Type Jewelry LEGGO 2.0 Riviere Tennis Necklace (typejewelry.com). Maison Tabbah Aquatica Cuff (tabbah.com). Bondeye Jewelry Kalisa Bracelet (bondeyejewelry.com). Mattia Cielo Bracelet (mattiacielo.com). Tabayer Limited Edition OERA Bracelet (tabayer.com). Walters Faith Thoby Spiral Earrings. Available through Ylang Ylang Jewelers in St. Louis and waltersfaith.com. Opposite page clockwise from top left: Sig Ward Jewelry Infinity Necklace (sigwardjewelry.com). Lagos The Drop Embrace Two-Tone XO Diamond Pendant Necklace. Available through Richter & Phillips Jewelers in Cincinnati, Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis, Schiffman’s Jewelers in Lexington, Diamond Cellar in Nashville, and Lagos.com. Verragio Scallop Necklace. Available through Genesis Diamonds in Nashville and verragio. com. Francesca Villa Fantasia The Mermaid Has Her Cherries Ring (francescavilla.it). Boochier Slinkee Icon Ring (boochier.com). FOPE EKA Collection Flex’It Bracelet with Onyx. Available through Schiffman’s Jewelers in Lexington, Chesterfield Jewelers in St. Louis and fope.com. Mindi Mond New York Celestial Diamond and Tourmaline Detachable Earrings (mindimondnewyork.com). David Yurman Snake Amulet. Available through Moyer Fine Jewelers and Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, Schiffman’s Jewelers in Lexington, Davis Jewelers in Louisville, Diamond Cellar in Nashville, Clarkson Jewelers in St. Louis, and davidyurman.com. Marco Bicego Twisted Irregular Hoops. Available in Indianapolis from ReisNichols Jewelers, in Lexington from Schiffman’s Jewelers, in Louisville from Davis Jewelers, in Nashville from Diamond Cellar, in St. Louis from Simon’s Jewelers and Clarkson’s Jewelers, and at us.marcobicego.com. Etiq Jharokha Hoops (etiqdesign.com). Everlee Bezel Wrap Ring. Available through Welling & Co. Jewelers in Cincinnati, Davis Jewelers in Louisville, and everleejewelry.com. Melissa Kaye Large Aria Jane Ring. Available in Indianapolis through Moyer Fine Jewelers and shop.melissakayejewelry.com.

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The indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum reopened in April 2025 after a $60 million renovation.

VROOM VROOM ROOMS A roundup of notable motoring museums around the world. Written by Matthew Cottrell From the sleek lines of a vintage Ferrari to the mighty roar of a muscle car, car museums around the world serve as temples to automotive history, showcasing a captivating blend of engineering, design, and cultural impact. These institutions range from sprawling national collections to specialized, privately-run havens, each offering a unique journey through the evolution of the automobile and its influence on modern society. A visit to these museums provides an immersive experience into the technology, artistry, and heritage that define the world's long-standing love affair with the automobile. United States The Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum in Leeds, Alabama (barbermuseum.org ), is the world's largest motorcycle museum, according to Guinness World Records. Situated on the 880-acre Barber Motorsports Park, it houses over 1,800 motorcycles, with more than 1,000 on display at any given time, alongside the world's most extensive collection of Lotus race cars and other vintage race cars. T h e Br um o s C o l l e c ti on i n Ja c k s o nv i l l e , Fl o r i d a (thebrumoscollection.com) focuses on the evolution of the automobile through competition, with a significant emphasis on the legacy of Brumos Racing and Porsche, and on showcasing cars tested in iconic 44 slmag.net

races like Daytona and Sebring. Visitors can explore a wide range of vehicles, including rare open-cockpit racers dating back to 1894, vintage Indianapolis 500 cars, Grand Prix machines, a vast selection of Brumos Porsches. Notable vehicles include Steve McQueen's Porsche 917K from the film Le Mans. A national historic landmark, the 250-acre complex of The Henry Ford in Dearborn, Michigan (thehenryford.org ) offers five distinct attractions, including the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation (home to Rosa Parks' bus and JFK's limousine, among other exhibits), the Ford Rouge Factory Tour, and the Benson Ford Research Center. Located inside the Indianapolis Motor Speedway oval, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum (imsmuseum.org) is fresh off a $60.5 million, 17-month renovation, its first significant renovation in 40 years. The addition of 40,000 square feet of made room for new immersive and dynamic experiences, including seven permanent and three rotating galleries, a new mezzanine dedicated to displaying nonvehicle artifacts, The "Starting Line Experience," an immersive video space showcasing the pageantry leading up to the start of the "500", state-of-the art racing, and a "pit stop challenge" for guests to learn the tools and equipment of the racing trade.

Porsche Museum in Stuttgart, Germany.

Jaguar Gallery at the British Motor Museum in Warwickshire, UK. Photo by Karam Ram The "Driven to Win: Racing in America" exhibit at The Henry Ford museum

BMW Museum in Munich, Germany Aerial view of the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky.

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Museo Enzo Ferrari in Modena, Italy

Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, Germany

Housed in a converted former bakery, the Lane Motor Museum in Nashville, Tennessee (lanemotormuseum.org), offers a unique and extensive collection of over 500 predominantly European automobiles, with a focus on unusual and innovative designs. Notably, it is one of the few working museums in the U.S. that strives to maintain nearly all its vehicles in running order. For a deeper dive, the museum offers weekend "Vault Tours" of the extensive reserve collection stored in the basement. The LeMay-America's Car Museum in Tacoma, Washington (americascarmuseum.org ), is a 165,000-square-foot, four-level facility that showcases the history and culture of the American automobile. The museum's collection, which includes over 300 cars, trucks, and motorcycles, is based around a core group of vehicles from the private collection of Tacoma businessman Harold LeMay. Located across the street from the only GM assembly plant that builds Corvettes, the 115,000-square-foot National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky (corvettemuseum.org ), provides a chronological journey through all eight generations of the Corvette, from the first 1953 models (C1) to the current mid-engine C8s. More than 80 cars are on display in nostalgic, periodic settings, such as a 1950s-style service station and soda shop. With a striking façade composed of a red aluminum rain screen overlaid with a series of 308 undulating, "angel hair" stainless-steel ribbons, the Petersen Automotive Museum (petersen.org) is an architectural marvel on Los Angeles's famed Miracle Mile. Inside, the museum features over 300 vehicles across 25 galleries, with exhibits organized thematically across three floors. The collection spans the entire history of the automobile, from early horseless carriages and pre-war classics to modern hypercars and alternative-fuel vehicles. 46 slmag.net

August Horch Museum located in Zwickau, Germany.

Musée de l'Automobile, Mulhouse, France. Photo by Alexis Toureau

Europe Housed in the Audi's original factory in Zwickau, Germany, and named to honor the founder of the manufacturing giant that eventually became Audi, the August Horch Museum's permanent collection showcases roughly 160 large exhibits. Vehicles, including early Horch and Audi models, DKW, Wanderer, and the iconic Trabant, are displayed in recreated historical settings that contextualize their place in history. In the heart of Italy's "Motor Valley," the Automobili Lamborghini Museum in Sant'Agata Bolognese (lamborghini.com/ en-en/museum#val-tab) is dedicated to the history, innovation, and iconic models of the brand. Visitors can see a rotating collection of classic and modern supercars, including historical models like the Miura and Countach, as well as recent and one-off vehicles like the Sesto Elemento, Veneno, and Sián. They can also tour the factory production lines and test their skills in a driving simulator. The BMW Museum in Munich (bmw-welt.com/en) is one of the oldest car museums in Germany. The permanent exhibition is split into seven theme-based exhibitions housing nearly 125 original exhibits from over 100 years of BMW Group history. In the Rotunda, temporary exhibitions highlight the company's brands or notable contemporary themes. The BMW Junior Museum offers interactive tours and a selection of workshops on topics such as design, architecture, art, and sustainability. The British Motor Museum in the small village of Gaydon, Warwickshire (britishmotormuseum.co.uk) brings the story of British motoring to life with the world's largest collection of historic British cars, featuring more than 400 vehicles from the classic,

British Motor Museum in Gaydon, Warwickshire

Motorcar Museum of Japan, located in Komatsu City, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan

Musée de l'Automobile, Mulhouse, France. Photo by Alexis Toureau

vintage, and veteran eras. Visitors can explore exhibits on the history of the British motor industry, see iconic movie cars like the FAB1 and the James Bond Land Rover. With over 400 vehicles, the Cité de l'Automobile in Mulhouse, France (musee-automobile.fr/en/), is a national automobile museum renowned for housing the world's most extensive Bugatti collection. Beyond the exhibits, visitors can experience interactive road-safety simulations, a race-car demonstration area, and, for an extra fee, drive classic cars on a private track. Assembled over two generations by the Louwman family, the Louwman Museum in The Hague (louwmanmuseum.nl/en/) owns the world's largest collection of cars built before 1910. It displays some of the earliest patented motorcars, including a Benz Patent-Motorwagen from 1886 and a De Dion Bouton & Trépardoux from 1887. Architect Michael Graves designed the purpose-built structure, which was opened in 2010 by Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands. The unique double-helix structure with two spiral-like ramps guides visitors of the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, Germany, through the nine floors. The museum's interior has no enclosed rooms or straight walls, creating a dynamic flow for all the exhibits, which trace the history of the Mercedes-Benz brand and the automobile industry from its origins in 1886 to the present day. Mark your calendars for May 2026, when the Musée des 24 Heures du Mans (lemans-musee24h.com/en), a motorsport museum located at the famous Circuit de la Sarthe in Le Mans, France, reopens as the M24 museum after undergoing a significant expansion.

The Museo Ferrari in Maranello, Italy (ferrari.com/en-EN/ museums/ferrari-maranello) is dedicated to the history of Ferrari, located near the factory and focusing on iconic road and track cars, as well as the company's motorsport successes. In contrast, the Museo Casa Enzo Ferrari in Modena (ferrari.com/en-EN/museums/enzoferrari-modena) centers on the life of Enzo Ferrari, featuring his birthplace and a futuristic building for temporary exhibitions. While both are Ferrari museums, the Maranello location is the marque's official company museum, showcasing its modern and historic cars. Founded in 1933, the Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile in Turin, Italy (museoauto.com/en/mauto/) is considered one of the world's best car museums. It's collection of nearly 200 cars from over 80 different brands, arranged chronologically and thematically over three floors, tracing the car's evolution from its earliest models to modern concepts. Asia The Motorcar Museum of Japan, located in Komatsu City (motorcarmuseum.jp), is Japan's first and largest automobile museum, housing a vast collection of over 500 vehicles from the 1900s to the 1970s, including many early commercial vehicles that were crucial to Japan's post-war economic recovery. The first dedicated automotive museum in China, the Shanghai Auto Museum, located in Jiading District (shautomuseum.com), it has over 100 cars from around the world, including many classic European models, as well as significant Chinese-made vehicles such as the Hongqi CA770 and the Shanghai SH760A. The museum, notable for the flowing curves of its exterior, sits adjacent to the Shanghai International F1 Circuit, China's first racing complex for Formula 1 cars. sl slmag.net

CHEERS TO THE NEW YEAR! A globetrotting wine expert shares five recent standouts. Written by Vicki Denig Bonjour, Sophisticated Living readers! My name is Vicki Denig, and I’m a wine and travel journalist, as well as a Certified Specialist of Wine, based between New York and Paris. With each issue, I’ll be sharing five of my top recent wine discoveries with you, in hopes that you’ll enjoy them just as much as I did. Check out this edition’s selection below and be sure to let me know what you think! Follow along on Instagram at @vickidenig/www.vickidenig.com. Hambledon Vineyard Classic Cuvée Brut NV (Hampshire, England – SRP: $49.99) Sparkling wine and the holiday season go hand in hand, though not all that glitters must be Champagne. This year, I was excited to try out this Classic Cuvée Brut from Hambledon Vineyards, located in the heart of Hampshire, England—yes, you read that correctly. While not a traditional winemaking country, England’s cool-climate conditions are highly conducive to growing grapes for sparkling wine production, especially in the wake of global warming. This flagship wine is made from the signature grape trio of Champagne (Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier) and is aged for an impressive minimum of three years on the lees prior to release. Elegant and well-balanced, the wine is dominated by flavors of baked apple, citrus, magnolia, and toasty brioche. Pop with fresh seafood or your favorite salty snacks for a seriously satisfying pairing. 48 slmag.net

Domaine Rougeot Bourgogne Côte d'Or Clos des Six Ouvrées 2023 (Burgundy, France – SRP: $64.99) Burgundy is known for producing ethereal wines that promise to age gracefully over time—and this captivating bottle from Domaine Rougeot is no exception. Rooted in Meursault, winemaker PierreHenri Rougeot organically farms 13 hectares of vines in and around this revered Côte de Beaune village. In the cellar, Rougeot beautifully meshes a low-intervention mentality with strong respect for regional tradition, resulting in beguiling wines that leave a lasting impression. Clos des Six Ouvrées is made from 100% Chardonnay cultivated at the base of the hill of Meursault and is fermented with native yeasts in concrete vats before aging for 18 months in French oak barrels. Luxurious and round, the wine’s notes of yellow apple, peach, honeysuckle, and baking spice are balanced by ample amounts of refreshing natural acidity. Pax North Coast Syrah 2023 (California, USA – SRP: $37.99) Pax Mahle is one of the original faces of the ‘New California’ wine movement, one that prioritizes balance and restraint over excessive ripeness and new oak. He moved to California with his wife in 1997 to source wine for Dean & Deluca, though just a few years later, he decided to start his own brand. Over the past 25 years, Pax has inspired

an entire generation of winemakers with his minimalist philosophy, believing that “great wines can only be made from great vineyards.” This varietal Syrah comes from a handful of organically farmed sites across northern California and is vinified with 100% whole cluster prior to aging for 10 months in neutral French oak. Notes of wild berries, cracked black pepper, olive brine, and lavender lead to a long, palate-coating finish; if you tend to gravitate towards wines from the Northern Rhône, this bottle is certain to blow your mind. Giulia Negri Serradenari 'Pian delle Mole' Langhe Nebbiolo 2023 (Piedmont, Italy – SRP: $39.99) Nebbiolo has become one of my favorite grape varieties, and expressions from Langhe are perfect for enjoying as ‘daily drinkers.’ Hailing from Piedmont, these “baby Barolos / Barbarescos” are youthful and bright—and contrary to their older siblings, are almost always suitable for immediate consumption. This bottling from Giulia Negri hails from high-elevation vineyards in the hills of La Morra, which are characterized by cool-climate conditions and marine sediment soils. In the cellar, the wine is fermented with native yeasts and aged for 14 months in a combination of stainlesssteel tanks and large tonneaux. Lifted and aromatic, the wine’s supple palate is driven by notes of sour cherry, cedar, forest floor, and a touch of cooling balsam. Serve slightly chilled for maximum enjoyment!

Bastian Wolber Côte de Nuits-Villages 2023 (Burgundy, France – SRP: $155.00) Although Burgundy is known for its prestigious grand crus and big-name producers, what I find most exciting about the region is its plethora of up-and-coming young winemakers crafting exciting bottles from lesser-known areas—cue Bastian Wolber and the Côte de Nuits-Villages. Born in Germany, Bastian honed his winemaking skills at Domaine Leflaive and Domaine Ganevat before ultimately setting out on his own in 2020. This Côte de Nuits-Villages comes from two parcels (Aux Vignottes, located across the street from the Clos de la Maréchale, and Aux Fauques in Comblanchien) and is vinified with 100% whole clusters with native yeasts prior to aging for 10-18 months in used barrels. Bright and energetic—just like the hands that make it—the wine exudes flavors of wild strawberry, cherry, rose petal, and sweet spice. I enjoyed this bottle at Lei, a new-to-the-scene wine bar in Chinatown from restaurateur Annie Shi; if you find yourself in New York anytime soon, it’s an absolute must-visit. sl Vicki Denig is a wine / travel journalist based between New York and Paris. Her work regularly appears in various industry publications, including Decanter, Food & Wine, and WineSearcher. In addition to journalism, Vicki also works with a handful of wine-focused clients, including Paris Wine Company, High Road Wine & Spirits, and more. When not writing, she enjoys running, indoor cycling classes, petting dogs, and popping bottles on her rooftop with friends.

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The Restaurant at Farmhouse Inn. Photo by John Troxell

HAPPY IN HEALDSBURG Come for the wine, keep coming back for so much more. Written by Bridget Cottrell Some meals are so good, they're worth making a mess of yourself. That was the case at Arandas, the all-day dining spot at boutique hotel 27 North (hotel27north.com), located on the charming square in Healdsburg, California. As soon as I took one bite of their Quesabirria tacos, the warm, rich, savory, and slightly spicy birria consommé dribbled down my wrist, prompting a quick clean-up before quickly diving in for more messy deliciousness. For this visit to the heart of Sonoma's wine country, we enjoyed one moment of culinary decadence after another (along with some outstanding wine). From the pistoriophile's perfect ham and gruyere croissant at Quail & Condor (quailandcondor. com), rivaled only by Parisian pâtisseries; to DIY after-dinner s'mores at Farmhouse Inn (farmhouseinn.com), where we didn't mind sticky fingers courtesy of their homemade marshmallows; a repeat visit to famed vegan restaurant Little Saint (neighbor's with 27 North; littlesainthealdsburg.com), whose culinary plantbased wizardry is flavorful and filling enough to make even the most ardent carnivore eschew their meaty ways for a meal; and sampling our way through a farmer's market, even dry travelers will find there's so much to love about this region. I love Sonoma County—my list of "saved" homes on Zillow (which grows after each trip there) peeks at my pining for a California 50 slmag.net

contemporary lifestyle. Having visited in all four seasons and all types of weather, I firmly believe there's no "wrong" time, as each month offers unique experiences. Summer is ideal for outdoor activities; fall ushers in the busy harvest season; and temperate winter offers fewer crowds for exploring wineries before bud-break on dormant vines heralds the return of spring. In a crowded hospitality market, Foley Entertainment Group has quietly been making significant inroads, most recently acquiring and rebranding the former Hotel Le Mars, a 20-year-old French chateau-inspired property, sited directly on Healdsburg's bustling square. It reopened this past summer as 27 North, offering outsized amenities for a 16-room boutique property. A refreshing watermelontequila cocktail offered at check-in was a primer for a top-notch, finger-licking dinner at Arandas, which serves a solid menu of Mexican staples done exceptionally well. Throughout 27 North, classic French country touches are juxtaposed with contemporary artwork sourced specifically for the property. As the door to our third-floor room opened, I was surprised to discover a stately canopy bed beneath a beam-vaulted ceiling. Placed next to a gas fireplace with a faux limestone hearth, an eightfoot-tall wardrobe with pleated fabric behind the perforated grille on its doors elegantly serves as the room's closet.

The Library at XXVII North. Photo by Anna DaMommio,Hey Honey Photography

Guest room at XXVII North. Photo by Anna DaMommio, Hey Honey Photography

27 North is located in the heart of Healdsburg on its bustling square.

The Tasting Room at Aperture Cellars. Photo by Bridget Cottrell.

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Buildings at Farmhouse Inn are designed to resemble agrarian structures.

Foley Family Wines owns over 25 wineries and distilleries, including both well-known and historic brands in California, Oregon, Washington, and New Zealand, which consistently garner 90+ point scores from reviewers for Wine Enthusiast and Wine Spectator. Guests of Foley-owned properties can participate in a sommelier-led tasting across their portfolio in the elegant library at 27 North, which notably includes Chalk Hill and Roth Estate in Sonoma and Foley-Johnson in nearby Napa. The experience is ideal for oenophiles on a shorter sojourn, offering a comprehensive tour of the terroir sans travel time between wineries. While you can amply fill an afternoon or two perusing the small businesses, including clothing, home and jewelry boutiques, tasting rooms, restaurants, and art galleries that line Healdsburg Square, grab a sandwich to go from Troubadour (troubadourhbg.com), Quail & Condor's sibling, to fuel a day of exploring Sonoma County's 425 wineries spread among 19 different wine areas. This past October, Sonoma County Tourism 52 slmag.net

(sonomacounty.com) launched LOU, an AI tool and personalized trip-planning assistant for visitors. Getting recommendations the old-fashioned way—from the people who live and work in the area—is still our go-to, as is a stop at Aperture Cellars (aperture-cellars.com). Winemaker Jesse Katz was recently named Wine Enthusiast's 2025 Winemaker of the Year, and the estate has been selected for The World's 50 Best Vineyards list, ranking at number 14. Splurge on the "Devil Proof Experience", which offers a private tasting of Malbec and Malbec blends that have earned Katz significant critical acclaim, including multiple 100-point scores from top wine critics. Although it's just a few miles from Healdsburg, Farmhouse Inn, nestled in among towering trees in the Russian River Valley, feels worlds away. A former 19th-century family homestead, the boutique property, also part of Foley Entertainment Group, maintains a homelike appeal with just 25 rooms generously spaced around the wellness barn and garden pool.

King Deluxe Guestroom at Farmhouse Inn. Photo by Jay Graham.

Treatment room in the Wellness Barn at The Farmhouse Inn

The Restaurant at Farmhouse Inn. Photo by Sean Mattimore

The Wellness Barn at Farmhouse Inn

At check-in, guests are invited to pack a goodie sack from the bath bar to take to their room. I opted for a brown-sugar scrub that smelled good enough to eat and chunks of locally made soaps in rainbow hues. All guest rooms and suites, decorated in a modern farmhouse style with slipcovered upholstery and a soothing color palette, are equipped with a steam shower and soaking tub, making an indulgent spa day possible without ever leaving the confines of your suite. The casualness of a plethora of plantings, some with heavy blooms that graze the knees of guests traversing the pea-gravel paths between the various buildings—all designed to resemble agrarian structures with galvanized milk bucket light fixtures and corrugated metal roofing—belies their careful manicuring. Also abundant is the sound of running water, courtesy of rustic fountains and features that enhance the overall aura of tranquility. Sonoma artist Marci Davis was tapped to create striking blackand-white horse murals in the treatment rooms within The Wellness Barn, which sits adjacent to the pool. The holistic spa, with plenty

of alfresco relaxation areas, offers a range of treatments using local, seasonal ingredients and specialized practices, such as a CBD, herbal, and Milk Moon baths and a farm-to-beauty facial that incorporates fruits, herbs, raw honey, goat's milk, and infused olive oil. The Restaurant at Farmhouse Inn, located in the original circa 1879 farmhouse, is a celebration of California cuisine, existing in the rarefied air of fine dining establishments presenting multiple courses that feel indulgent yet still healthy, thanks to the preponderance of locally sourced ingredients, including their onsite Chalk Hill Culinary Gardens. Our dessert course was a showstopper. The ser ver approached our table with a lidded cut-crystal box that opened to reveal a gaggle of white truffles, carefully nestled on a bed of muslin. He proceeded to shave a generous portion of the pungent fungus atop a petite, puck-shaped date cake sitting in a pool of plate-licking caramel sauce. It was fitting finale to a quick trip punctuated by scores of elevated experiences. sl slmag.net

The Dolli Bag by Marina Raphael is the result of a unique partnership between THE DOLLI and acclaimed designer Marina Raphael, celebrating the timeless elegance of old Athens and the bold creativity of young Greek visionaries ($1,500; thedolli.com/shop).

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Silvia Furmanovich Marquetry Red Rose clutch ($7,480; SilviaFurmanovich.com) Malone Souliers May Leopard Calf Hair clutch ($1,525; malonesouliers.com)

Cult Gaia Grape clutch ($598), Jamisha gown ($2,498) and Suni choker ($398; cultgaia.com).

Judith Leiber Couture Collection’s Edition Dragon’s Eye Fan handbag ($4,995; judithleiber.com) From Shanghai-based jewelry designer Grace Tang, this bejeweled “Starry Sky” clutch was crafted from hand-textured 18k yellow gold, mined diamonds and hand-cut onyx (price upon request; gracetangfinejewelry)

Anguilla Lola in Gold Alligator from Piper & Skye ($1,890; piperandskye.com)

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CUPID'S CHOICE Compiled by Bridget Cottrell

Clockwise from top left: Renato Cipullo Cupid Ring (renatocipullo.com). Chris Ploof Designsx Anthony Lent Earrings (chrisploof.com). Jemma Wynne Love Notes Pendant (jemmawynne.com). Temple St. Clair Large Rock Crystal Heart Pendant. Available through Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis, Ylang Ylang in St. Louis and templestclair.com. Eden Presley Love Luck Ring. Available through Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis and edenpresley.com. Opposite page clockwise from top left: Ana Katarina Pierce Your Heart Drop Earrings (anakatarina.com). Bangelle Abacus Valentine Cuff (bangelle.com). Heavenly Vices Love Lock (heavenlyvicesfinejewelry.com). Bee Mine: Elizabeth Locke Cushion Banded Agate Bee Ring. Available through Elleard Heffern Fine Jewelers in St. Louis and elizabethlocke.com. Fred Leighton Circa 1870s Cupid Pendant Earrings (fredleighton.com). Zahn-Z We Clicked Set (zahnzjewelry.com). Dorian Floating Teardrop Engagement Ring by Angie Marei (mareinewyork.com). Shahla Karimi Jewelry Zaha Two-Stone Cushion Curve Engagement Ring (shahlakarimi.com). Claudia Mae Watermelon Tourmaline Heart Earrings (claudiamae.com). Seal & Scribe Two Hearts Together Forever Ring (sealandscribe.com). Lionheart Jewelry Cassandane Multi Heart Charm Bracelet (lionheartjewelry.com). Yvonne Leon Je T’aime Bracelet (yvonneleon.com).

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Eclipse chandelier from Regina Andrew (reginaandrew.com)

Hickory Chair debuted an exclusive collection created in collaboration with Britsh design house Liberty fabrics; the 11 bespoke colorways of its iconic fabrics marry Liberty’s rich heritage in textiles with Hickory Chair’s 114 years of American furniture craftsmanship (hickorychair.com)

HIGH POINT HIGHLIGHTS

Twice a year, more than 75,000 interior designers, architects, and home furnishings buyers coalesce at High Point to take the pulse of the interior design industry as presented by 2,000-plus exhibitors and emerging makers spread across 11 million square feet of showroom space. Leading the way among the discernible trends are organic silhouettes, tactile surfaces, comfort through refinement, rich color palettes, artisan-made pieces, cultural collaborations, sustainability, and burgeoning customization options. While it’s impossible to share everything that commanded our attention, our editors hand-picked a few of their favorites.

Madheke The Charles Serving Credenza (madheke.in)

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Jamie Young Co. Anguilla handcrafted wood chandelier (jamieyoung.com)

Moe’s Home Collection Segment stone dining table and Elise dining chairs (moeshome.com)

The Fleur Collection designed by CLAUDIO BELLINI Studio for Caracole (caracole.com)

The Solenne collection from Brown Jordan (brownjordan.com)

Mayu sconce in Midnight Steel from Fine Art Handcrafted Lighting (finearthl.com)

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Madheke Duma Lounge chair and ottoman (madheke.in)

Ellen Robinson Studio terra-cotta Sea Garden table lamps (ellenrobinsonstudio.com)

From Danao Living, the Dock collection by Claudio Bellini blends sculptural woven panels with solid wood (danaoliving.com)

New England-based plunge pool manufacturer Soake Pools unveiled their Check + Stripe collection. Any of Soake Pools’ five plunge pools can be specified with small checks (8”x8” pattern), large checks (16”x16” pattern), or a chunky 16” stripe. Eleven colorways are available (soakepools.com).

Greenington Wynn solid bamboo writing desk (greenington.com)

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Floating Flowers Blue Wall Covering from Liora Manné’s Lamontage® Collection (lioramanne.com)

Jamie Young Co. Zinnia chandelier (jamieyoung.com)

Jaipur Living’s Majnun rug is hand-knotted and inspired by the Cintamani motif (jaipurliving.com)

Calligaris Edgar Sofa (calligaris.com)

Mr. And Mrs. Howard Benjamin bar cart (sherrilldesigncenter.com)

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Rendezvous Beach

AURORA ANGUILLA RESORT & GOLF CLUB A beachfront property with something for all ages

By Tracy Cottrell / Images courtesy of Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club The word "Caribbean" is rife with vibrant tropical colors and textures, evoking balmy breezes, soft white beaches, temperate waters, and exotic fruit beverages to savor. The island of Anguilla embodies the Caribbean at its finest. Guests of the Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club (auroraanguilla.com), located on one of the most northerly of the Leeward Islands in the Lesser Antilles, are brought to the British Overseas Territory by speedboat, adding a touch of adventure to the abundance of glorious views of surrounding islands, villages, and ports along the way. Upon arrival, it is a brief ride from the port to the Aurora Anguilla, where a welcoming corps of hospitality connoisseurs awaits to greet guests. The abundance of amenities, services, activities, and entertainment at this luxury resort is broad and deep and solely focused on enhancing guests' every experience. Eco-friendly transportation enables guests to access all areas of the resort quickly and easily. Aurora Anguilla is a large resort on more than 300 acres, including two-and-a-half miles of beachfront. The hotel offers a 62 slmag.net

multitude of accommodations, providing guests with just what they need for their dream vacation. The multi-storied Merrywing Tower, in the style of a traditional hotel à la Mies van der Rohe, is a more intimate facility, close to the new Aurora Entertainment Park and a delightfully broad range of activities, including events at the Amphitheatre, a waterpark, an activity center, and 11pickleball courts, the most in the Caribbean. The Merrywing Beach enclave hosts a collection of private suites, as well as multibedroom seafront suites and private estate homes. Many include kitchens for vacationing gourmets and would-be chefs. Merrywing Beach is also home to diverse dining options, including D Richard's Steakhouse, where I went against the grain, opting for a delicious vegetarian entrée made with exquisitely fresh vegetables, grains, and legumes. Enhancing my meal was an unexpectedly beautiful view of the Aurora International Golf Course (an 18-hole, par-72 championship course designed by Greg Norman), illuminated to bring out the vibrant greens and the darkening dusk sky, rendering the scene abstract and painterly.

Aurora International Golf Course

Merrywing Tower

Beachfront Villa Bedroom

Breezes Restaurant

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Hydroponic farm

C Level Bar

Rendezvous Beach is a more private niche, close to the shore and nearby pool, with C Level and Chef's Table restaurants easily accessible. The more casual, open-air C Level is directly on the beach, with front row seats to the ebb and flow of the transparent turquoise sea. Listening to the rush of the waves while enjoying a fresh snapper fillet is a memory underscored by the softness of the breeze and the fluid watercolor landscape of the sky and setting sun. For swimming aficionados, Chef's Table, open for much of the day, is right next to the pool and within walking distance of the beach. The morning breakfast buffet, laden with colorful tropical fruit and freshly baked pastries, never disappoints. Less well known, but equally impressive, is Aurora Anguilla's commitment to sustainability and wellness. Intentional interior design dually minimizes environmental impact while enhancing guests' experience. The onsite hydroponic farm provides a continuous and inspiring supply of fresh fruit and produce for resident chefs. Beyond the luxurious accommodations, excellent dining, and pristine beaches, Aurora Anguilla offers guests access to 64 slmag.net

almost every water sport and vacation activity imaginable. Reveling in the spectacular Caribbean Sea surrounding Anguilla will be the central focus for visitors of all ages. Diving, kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, Hobie Cats, snorkeling, and aqua aerobics are available to every guest and can also add a unique element to weddings, family reunions, milestone birthday celebrations, or annual business meetings. For guests such as newlyweds or families desiring an intimate experience, privacy is readily available. The newly opened Aurora Entertainment Park appeals to children of all ages with a zero-entry swimming pool, lazy river, three thrilling water slides, a kids' splash pad, fullservice cabanas, and a swim-up bar Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club is a sprawling property with diverse accommodations and an abundance of amenities available at any time. Guests transition seamlessly from activity to activity, seeking out the next adventure and joyful event. A strong undercurrent is Aurora Anguilla's sustained, deeply felt, warm, and genuine hospitality that embraces every guest throughout their stay. sl

SOPHISTICATED SOCIETY

January 8 16-17 17 29

31st Kentucky Chamber Day Dinner, 4pm, Central Bank Center; kychamber.com/events/kychamberday BourbonCon, Marriott Griffen Gate; bourbonconlex.com Bourbon & Bubbles, 5pm, Central Bank Center; bourbonandbubbleslex.com An Evening with Commerce Lexington, Central Bank Center; commercelexington.com/evening.html

February 6 7 12-14 13 27

Central Kentucky Heart Ball, 6pm, Central Bank Center Special Olympics Polar Plunge,Texas Roadhouse Beaumont Circle ASHBA 2026 Annual Convention and Youth Conference; saddlebred.com/events/convention-2026 American Saddlebred Horse & Breeders Association Major Awards Gala, 5:30, Carrick House; saddlebred.com/events/convention-2026 CASA of Lexington Bourbon on the Bayou; asaoflexington.org/bourbon-and-the-bayou

March

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Kentucky Crafted Market, Alltech Arena Mission Magic Gala; missionhealthlex.org/gala/ KY Hopeful Paws’ “Pawrty Through the Decades” Gala; kyhopefulpaws.com Night of Angels Gala, 6pm, Lexington Downtown Hilton; maryqueenschool.org/night-of-angels

Is there an event you’d like us to cover? Send an email to bridget@slmag.net with the details.

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Photos by Daniel Roberts

‘SHE IS EMPOWERED’ SOIREE

This benefit for Refuge for Women Kentucky raised over $100,000. The event highlighted current statistics on human trafficking and sexual exploitation, shared stories of survivors’ resilience, and celebrated the empowerment that comes with freedom.

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LLF ANNUAL CELEBRATION

For its 26th anniversary, the Lexington Leadership Foundation chose the theme “Unity in Action” for its annual fundraiser to show how working together as a community can create real change.

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NIGHT ON WALL STREET

At a lively corporate fundraiser for Junior Achievement of the Bluegrass, professionals battled to see who could build the biggest ‘portfolio’ before the night was over.

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‘She Is Empowered’ Soiree 1) Deanna Lynn, Steve Oglesby 2) Jessica Dixon 3) David & Kaylee Hall, Kirsten & Evan Grant 4) Sarah & Kurtis Alva LLF Annual Celebration 1) Ken, Liz & Abbie Degen, John Withers 2) Dr. Regina Washington-Arthur & Alva Arthur 3) Steve & Terri Allen, Pattie & Joe Blackburn Night on Wall Street 1) Buchi Ajaezu, Sydney Sanders, Nicholas Wasley, Sydney Brooks 2) Christina Thomas, Latonya Meekins 3) Danny Murphy, Charley Holloway, Mike Jones 4) Madelyn Elledge, Amanda Lewis, Jennifer Tackett, Cecelia Reilly, Laurel Martin

Photos by Daniel Roberts

GO RED FOR WOMEN

The American Heart Association’s signature women’s initiative aims to raise awareness and improve clinical care for women facing their leading health risk, cardiovascular disease. During the runway show, eight women who survived cardiovascular disease and stroke were honored.

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BRUNCH’N WITH THE ARTS

Presented by LexArts, this event united community members, artists, and supporters to spotlight young Black and Brown voices through music, dance, visual arts, and spoken word. Proceeds will support the Bridge Initiative–Lex, African American Ballet Troupe, and R.H. Williams Culture Center.

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HOLLY DAY MARKET

Each year, the Junior League of Lexington transforms the Alltech Arena at the Kentucky Horse Park into a festive marketplace, bringing together vendors from across the country for a weekend of holiday shopping magic under one roof.

Go Red for Women 1) Andrea Ooten, Meredith Adkins 2) Dr. Shengnan Zheng, Erin Martin, Niki Moss, Blakely Callahan 3) Megan Holley-Slaughter, Sherry Holley4) Alex Edwards, Kaitlyn Williamson Lex Arts Brunch 1) Trina Morton, Shalanda Smith 2) Nathan Zamarron, Raquel Carter, Bishop Carter, Ame Sweetall, Anthony Smallwood 3) Camden & Kim Skidmore 4) Roy & Shaniah Booker, Latonya & Craig Williams 5) Gene & Jayla Barber Holly Day Market 1) Susan Kennon, Emily Pack, Jatanna Hall, Lara Keene 2) Julie Head, Fred Worsham, Carol Worsham 3) Amanda Adams, Caroline Kruer

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Photos by Daniel Roberts

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FARM TO FORK

Season 9 MasterChef winner Gerron Hurt lent his star power to Woodhill International’s annual fundraising event, presented by the Lexington Leadership Foundation. Proceeds support a biweekly market promoting food justice in one of Lexington’s most diverse neighborhoods. 2 1

Photos by Daniel Roberts

EmpowHER BRUNCH

Money raised from this third annual event helps fund YOU ARE CO’s programs, which offer safe housing, education, and resources to women and girls facing extreme poverty in Uganda.

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Farm to Fork 1) Jeremy Porter, Anne Gay Donworth 2) Ty Forker, Money Proctor, Angela Ballew 3) Kevin Archer, Kit O’Connor, Nate Orshan 4) Andrai & Anthony Jackson 5) Philip Rieger, Kristin Hughes EmpowHER Brunch 1) Nakia Ridgeway, Shamiah Booker, Casondra Jones 2) Jess Upchurch, Michelle Burke, Kait Saier, Kayla Grubbs, Maisen Morgan, Alexandra Fernandez, Kelsie Hughes, Bobbi Daniel, Sarndra Upchurch 3) Lafayette Cowden IV, Lonnetta Grimes, Ton’Niyah Martin, Kyree Whaley, Randy Johnson, Jonathan Rice, Jermaine Reeves, Michelle Snow 4) Sabine Cooper, Stephanie Burke 5) Lora Carter, Mike Melott

Two Centuries.

One Promise.

Because trust isn’t built overnight — it’s earned. Generation after generation.

milwardfuneral.com

Photos by Chad Henle

CRAFTING WITH A QUEEN

Part of LexArts’ vibrant Arty Parties, guests sipped festive cocktails and savored delicious bites, all while May O’Nays led a lively, laughter-filled lesson in crafting whimsical pipe cleaner Christmas trees. 2 1

Photos by Daniel Roberts

MEDICINAL WHISKEY WINTER GALA This fourth annual event, held at the Carrick House, raised over $700,000. The funds will go to UK Healthcare, specifically to support Golisano Children’s and the UK Transplant Center.

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Medicinal Whiskey Winter Gala 1) Dionna & Dr. Michael Huang 2) Rob Nielsen, John McKilop, Malay Shah, Tricia Potts, Dr. Michael Huang, Patrick Grace, Jon Bailey 3) Nick & Hailey Archer 4) Shea Robbins, Julie Bedenbaugh 5) Dr. Isaac & Emma Mittendorf

Photos by Daniel Roberts

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LV HARKNESS HOLIDAY TEA

Celebrating their 25th annual holiday season, Jennifer Jewett and the LV Harkness team transformed The Apiary into a scene of festive elegance, setting tables with exquisite linens and tableware from their unrivaled collection of world-renowned brands like Baccarat, Herend, Simon Pearce, Matouk, and William Yeoward.

1) Sandy Judy, Alyson Codell, Martha Trussell, Emmy Cowden, Kathy Courtney 2) Joseph Hillenmeyer, Harky Jewett, Shannon Hillenmeyer 3) Hannah Gabbard,Lucy Ritter,Susan Pollack,Lynn Morris, Jennifer Jewett, Whitney Hines, Suzanne Justice, Debby May 4) Carrie Wood, Johnna Kelly 5) William Carey, Brandl Skirvin 6) Harky & Jennifer Jewett 7) Connie Whitfield, Gay Reading 8) Dottie Maloney, Edie Green, Lee Milward, Mindy Mobley, Diane Lott

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SEXUAL HEALTH IN 2026 Yes, let’s talk about it.

By Terri Paige, CEO and Co-founder, Medical Transformation Center Terri Paige is CEO and co-founder of Medical Transformation Center with her husband, Dr. Carl Paige. Under Terri's leadership, the Kentucky-based MTC has become a regional hub of innovation, advancing optimal health through cellular medicine and helping the body heal itself. Working from a state-of-the-art medical center in Louisville, MTC offers regenerative approaches to healthy aging, optimization, longevity, and restorative care. Terri is a Fellow of the International Seeds Scientific Research and Performance Institute and a regular speaker at Institute symposiums; a Certified Lifestyle Coach through the American Academy of Anti-aging, Regenerative and Functional Medicine in conjunction with the Metabolic Medical Institute; and a Certified Professional Performance Coach through SourcePoint Training.

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My last article declared that menopause is having a moment. Well, in 2026… it’s sex. More than 30 years ago, Salt-N-Pepa suggested “Let’s Talk About Sex,” and it felt downright scandalous. Now here we are, decades later, finally having grown-up conversations about it. And thank goodness, because sexual health isn’t frivolous or embarrassing. It’s foundational to overall health. Yet, I meet people quite often who tell me they still struggle to talk about sexual challenges and end up suffering silently. Or they turn to dubious online peddlers that promise the world and deliver very little. The National Institutes of Health reports that 43% of women and 31% of men experience sexual dysfunction at some point. But here’s the hopeful part: real, effective solutions exist. We just have to talk about the problems first. So… let’s talk. Common Struggles (and Why They Happen) First off, I often tell people to make sure they like the person they are looking to be intimate with because that can help quite a bit. Obviously, there is much more to it, but it needs to be acknowledged that relationships are complex and can be challenging (take it from someone who has been married for over forty years and has eight kids!). Clear communication, actively combating resentment, and deliberately making time for each other are all actions that can go a long way toward keeping two busy people connected over the long term. But liking - even loving - someone doesn’t guarantee the desire is always present. People often chalk low libido up to stress or exhaustion (and those are certainly part of it), but it can also be an early sign of a deeper medical issue. Hormone imbalance is common for both men and women, but the approach to addressing it varies between the sexes. For men, you’ll often hear talk of testosterone replacement. This can be a viable option, but there are many things to consider before jumping in. Men can maintain their male hormones well into what might be considered “old age”. We find that environmental and lifestyle factors create the “imbalance” and prefer to work on optimizing metabolism and cell function before we go straight to testosterone replacement. Approaches exist to help the body start making more testosterone, which can lead to better overall health outcomes. It’s good to try this first because once you start hormone therapy, it will need to be maintained. It will cause your body to stop making it on its own. Talk to a medical professional and make sure you understand this option. For women, hormone replacement is often more necessary and needed earlier once perimenopause sets in. In my experience, adding progesterone helps with a lot of concerns - and makes you feel a lot better about life and those you are spending it with. Again, talk to your doctor. Not Just a Female Thing Speaking of menopause, again… Women aren’t the only ones who see functionality shift with age. Andropause

is often referred to as “male menopause,” and at the top of its list of symptoms sits low sex drive (along with fatigue, brain fog, loss of muscle mass, and weight gain). A diagnosis is based on symptoms and bloodwork - especially a morning testosterone draw. But again, there are plenty of treatments that work. Lifestyle changes and targeted therapies can make a dramatic difference if you are feeling these effects in your own life. Keeping (Bladder) Control Yes. I know no one loves discussing this stuff, but bladder control affects confidence and quality of life. And almost half of women dealing with these struggles say it has clearly had an effect on intimacy. And again - it isn’t just women who report this struggle (though childbirth often causes it to surface earlier.) After hearing story after story from patients about how this affected their sexual wellbeing, Medical Transformation Center invested in a groundbreaking technology in 2022: Emsella. Emsella strengthens and rebuilds the pelvic floor using highintensity electromagnetic energy - basically Kegels on superpower mode. You sit fully clothed on the chair for 28 minutes while it stimulates deep contractions. Most people need six bi-weekly sessions. And this really gets results. Many report they aren’t just feeling more confident about their trips to the toilet - things have improved in the bedroom, too. Laxity Can Cause Anxiety As already mentioned, childbirth and menopause do force some intense changes on women. These extend all the way to the vaginal opening. Vaginal looseness is something many women are never told about, and many physicians hardly address. But it can affect sensation and sexual satisfaction. Because this is rarely discussed, many don’t realize how simple the solution can be. There has been significant success in improving collagen, moisture, and tightness in women by using heat and high intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM) energy. Talk to us at Medical Transformation Center or ask your physician about EmFemme 360. There’s no downtime, no discomfort, and a series of treatments can make a significant difference in confidence and enjoyment. Treating Sexual Health as Health What it really comes down to is this: sexual health isn’t something that should be treated in isolation. At Medical Transformation Center, it’s part of our broader Cellular Medicine approach. We look at the entire system: hormones, metabolism, inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, lifestyle, and mental well-being. From there, we seek to put together a plan that addresses all these things, knowing that when you are wholly healthy, many things fall into place. When we address the whole person, sexual health often improves naturally. If something in this article made you think, “That sounds like me,” then I want to encourage you: you’re not alone, and you don’t have to figure this out by yourself. Sexual health shouldn’t be taboo. It should be talked about honestly, addressed thoughtfully, and supported compassionately. sl Let me invite you to explore Medical Transformation Center's many offerings or reserve a free consultation. Call 502.443.9962 or visit medicaltransformationcenter.com/

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