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{Lexington’s Finest}

November/December 2026

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Nov/Dec 2026

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on the cover:

The Call of the Countryside Photo by Tony Bailey

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24 The Call of the Countryside Photo by Tony Bailey

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The Art of Living Happily Her New York Moment The Call of the Countryside A Legacy of Grace and Giving A Love Written in the Stars The Art of Belonging Of Note... Dear Santa In Defense of Anonymous Bistro Wine Island by Design A Toast to a Greater Good The Siren Song of Capri Holiday Entertaining Using Antiques Gathered: Lalique The Lexington Edit A Seat at Ouita’s Table Timeless by Design Sophisticated Society Calendar Keeneland Eve Secretariat Center Brunch Launch Party Make-A-Wish Luncheon LAASHOF Gala Keeneland Fall Meet Every Stitch Tells a Story The Sport of Kings in the Bluegrass Last Call with Shannon Latham

Showroom inside Thoroughbred Antique Gallery 637 E. Main St.Lexington, KY 40508 IG: KimHitesAntiques kimhitesantiques.com

EDITOR - IN - CHIEF Bridget Cottrell ______________________________________________ ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Lee Milward ART DIRECTOR Jason Yann CONTRIBUTORS Writers Patti Bailey Jon Carloftis Matthew Cottrell Tracy Cottrell Vicki Denig Kim Hites Claire Williams Joy Yascone Photographers Tony Bailey Tracy Beall Chad Henle Slade Howard Daniel Roberts Erica Sharp Grace Shlonsky Ashley Stinson 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.

SLMAG.NET

From the Associate Publisher On a recent crisp morning with the Iroquois Hunt Club, before the hounds are cast, a silver tray makes its way through the field. Riders lean from their saddles to accept a stirrup cup, a little warmth for the ride ahead, as horses stamp and snort in the chill. For a fleeting moment, the countryside is still. Then a horn sounds, and the timeless pageantry of the hunt unfolds across the Bluegrass. It is a scene as romantic as it is enduring, and one we are delighted to celebrate on our cover. Lexington has a remarkable way of keeping its cherished traditions alive. The Blue Grass Charity Ball, whose history we explore in this issue, has brought generations of families together in a celebration of community, philanthropy, and Southern elegance. And what would such an occasion be without the gowns? The sweep of silk, the rustle of tulle, the breathtaking moment when a beautiful dress makes its entrance. For designer Renee Cunningham, that magic began in childhood, when she fashioned wedding gowns from tissues and handkerchiefs so her Barbies could marry Ken. This September, she presented ten bridal gowns at New York Fashion Week, a remarkable achievement that makes us immensely proud. Closer to home, Stapleton Arnold's wedding at The Apiary was a celebration of personal style, right down to a gown created by Renee with a full-length train of white blooms, as though the garden itself had followed her down the aisle. Of course, beauty isn't reserved for grand occasions. Sometimes it is found in the simple pleasure of coming home. This fall, I traveled to Salamander in Middleburg, Virginia, where Sheila Johnson has created a retreat that feels less like a resort and more like a gracious country estate. I returned to Kentucky reminded that the even the best journeys can deepen our appreciation of home. Interior designer Ben Deaton certainly understands the sentiment. When his clients envisioned a house that would feel like a vacation every day, he created a lakeside sanctuary so extraordinary that its owner insists there is nowhere in the world she would rather stay. As the holidays approach, our attention turns to gathering around the table. Few understand the pleasures of hospitality better than Ouita Michel. The celebrated chef behind Holly Hill Inn shares the holiday rituals she holds dear, those she has happily abandoned, and a favorite recipe that makes its annual December appearance. And once the menu is planned, there is the pleasure of setting the scene. In his Gathered column, my friend Jon Carloftis reminds us that René Lalique found inspiration not in improving upon nature, but in paying closer attention to it. Jon also believes beautiful things are meant to be enjoyed, not tucked away in cabinets awaiting some elusive special occasion. I couldn't agree more. Our good crystal has waited long enough. That same spirit extends to gift-giving. The most meaningful presents are rarely measured by their price tags, but by the thought behind them: a handwritten note, an afternoon set aside for a friend, or something discovered just down the street that immediately brings someone to mind. In our Last Call column, my friend Shannon Latham, the creative force behind Little English, Bisby, and 3 Martha's, declares restraint overrated—a woman after my own heart. Her vision of perfect happiness is an evening at the farm, with fires crackling, Labradors asleep on the floor, and bourbon poured. Yet her most treasured possession is her mother's charm bracelet; its charms collected around the world by the parents who instilled in her a love of travel and an appreciation for beautiful things. A lifetime of memories gathered one charm at a time. May this be your loveliest season yet. Happy Holidays! Cheers!

Lee Milward Associate Publisher, Lexington lee@slmag.net 12 slmag.net

SARAH MARKS INTERIORS

Lexington, KY

sarahmarksinteriors.com sarahmarksinteriors

THE ART OF LIVING HAPPILY With a spectacular lakeside setting, an inspired mix of traditional elegance and playful personality, and a philosophy that nothing should be too precious to enjoy, designer Benjamin Deaton creates a Lexington home where every day feels like a vacation. Written by Benjamin Deaton & Bridget Cottrell / Photos by Tracy Beall Many people dream of a five-star resort or a villa by the Mediterranean as the ultimate luxury. For these Lexington homeowners, that vacation feeling is part of their everyday life. Their home, overlooking Lake Hickman, started with a simple wish: to create a place that makes its owners happy. The wife wanted a home that felt like a getaway every day, combining beauty with comfort. Designer Benjamin Deaton took this idea and created a space that is both stylish and easy to live in. His main goal was simple: "Marrying masculinity with cheerfulness." At first, this mix might seem 14 slmag.net

unusual, but it works well throughout the home. Rich colors, tailored furniture, and playful patterns come together, and every room offers a cozy spot to enjoy the lake view. The wife says the finished home is even better than she hoped. After traveling and staying in many beautiful places, she can't think of anywhere she'd rather be. To her, nowhere else is as beautiful or comfortable as their own home. This feeling is especially meaningful when you consider how the property started. Deaton first met the homeowners a few years ago, soon after they moved

from Texas. He was originally asked to help pick out a pair of chairs, but their work together quickly grew. When they started thinking about a kitchen renovation, they found themselves captivated by a new property. The house above Lake Hickman had an amazing view, but the inside hadn’t been touched since it was constructed in the 1990s. Still, the wife was quick to see the inherent potential. "I love the view," she told Deaton, “And I know you can make it great." Realizing this shared vision, though, meant more than just a quick update.

Deaton teamed up with Coleman Calloway of Broadview Buildings to completely transform the house. Almost every interior wall was moved, except for two. They took out the grand staircase, changed the layout, and designed a floor plan that made the rooms flow more naturally. They moved the bedrooms upstairs and added a new media room downstairs that opens to the outdoor living area. The project also included major structural and mechanical updates, like new retaining walls. "When you're essentially gutting the entire interior of

a home, it's a tremendous undertaking," Deaton explains. "In many ways, it's more complicated than building something new." The aim was not just to modernize the house, but to give it warmth, character, and the feeling of a home that had grown and evolved over the years. Throughout the process, the wife's vision remained the touchstone. The house needed to be beautiful, certainly, but never at the expense of comfort. Nothing was to feel so precious that it couldn't be used or enjoyed. Every room needed a purpose, and every detail, however decorative, had to contribute to the experience of living there. In short, the house needed to be more than just attractive—it had to be practical. This idea shows up in the way the home mixes masculine and feminine touches, blends old and new styles, and combines special pieces with more accessible ones. Deaton’s skill at mixing high-end and everyday items makes the interiors feel relaxed and welcoming. Custom furniture, fine fabrics, and original art sit alongside practical and personal pieces. The result is a space that feels rich but never forced. In the front living room, a subtly patterned Victoria Larsen wallcovering in shades of taupe and gray establishes a quietly elegant foundation. Deaton, who doesn't typically gravitate toward gray, found himself drawn to the paper's nuanced movement and versatility. A beautifully proportioned sofa anchors the space, while tailored window treatments developed with Patrick McBride and

sculptural Christopher Spitzmiller lamps introduce additional layers of refinement. A painting by Rachel Van Dyke, discovered at Lexington's Crossgate Gallery, brings the composition together. "Every piece that is layered is thought through," Deaton says. Even with all this planning, the room doesn’t feel staged. It’s a space where you can chat, read a book, or just relax and enjoy the view. The adjoining den offers a decidedly different expression of the home's personality. Boasting one of the property's most spectacular lake views, the room was conceived as a comfortable family gathering place that could accommodate television watching without sacrificing style. The wife provided the creative spark in the form of Ferrick Mason's Kincade fabric in Capri Blue, whose exuberant pattern became the starting point for a more adventurous palette. Deaton embraced the opportunity to push beyond convention, colordrenching the space in richly saturated hues and introducing a wood-paneled ceiling that lends warmth and an understated connection to the lakeside setting. "It's dark and moody meets happiness," he says. Contemporary furnishings provide a crisp counterpoint to the more traditional architecture, while artwork by Mark Jackson helps bridge the stylistic divide. The juxtaposition is quintessential Deaton: masculine without feeling severe, cheerful without becoming frivolous, and polished without sacrificing the pleasures of putting one's feet up. slmag.net

For a family that loves to entertain, the kitchen was always going to be central to the home's daily rhythm. Here, Deaton created a richly textured composition of green tile, warm walnut cabinetry, Katonah hardware, and statement lighting by Urban Electric. An expansive marble island provides a natural gathering place. Its generous proportions are dictated in part by the availability of exceptionally large stone slabs sourced through Counter Culture. The room's beauty, however, is matched by its practicality. Careful attention was given to the placement of workspaces and sightlines, allowing the homeowners to remain connected to the lake whether they're preparing a meal, washing dishes, or enjoying their morning coffee. "You can look out at the lake while you're doing dishes or cooking at the stove," Deaton explains. An arched doorway leads to a concealed pantry, cleverly incorporated from what had once been an exterior side porch. The arch was 16 slmag.net

inspired by an image in the project's earliest design presentation, one of many seemingly small ideas that ultimately contributed to the home's distinctive character. Even the green tile has a story. Near the end of installation, the team discovered there was just enough material remaining to extend the treatment beyond its originally planned boundaries, creating an unexpected detail that became one of the room's finishing flourishes. It's precisely this balance of beauty and usefulness that the wife appreciates most. The kitchen is designed to accommodate the rhythms of real life, not merely to be admired from a distance. That same sensibility extends to the dining room, where a custom table designed in collaboration with furniture maker Keith Fritz takes center stage. Deaton and the homeowners visited Fritz's factory and atelier to develop a piece with the presence of sculpture and the practicality required for gracious entertaining. "It's a big piece of art

on its own," Deaton says. A commissioned painting by Merrill Thompson provides another striking focal point, positioned to be appreciated from much of the first floor. Its colors and composition create a visual connection between the surrounding rooms. Art is among the home's most personal expressions. Having arrived from Texas with relatively little of their previous collection, the homeowners embraced the opportunity to acquire works that reflected their tastes and complemented the new interiors. Through galleries in Atlanta and Lexington's Crossgate Gallery, they assembled a collection featuring Mark Jackson, Merrill Thompson, Phil Saxton, and Rachel Van Dyke, along with sculptures by Phyllis Kravitz. Rather than being selected simply to fill walls, the artwork contributes to the individuality of each room, creating the impression of a collection thoughtfully assembled over many years.

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It’s no easy feat to make a thoroughly designed home feel effortless, and it often requires an extraordinary amount of work behind the scenes. For Deaton, that process begins with a comprehensive design development book, a visual roadmap encompassing architectural inspiration, proposed floor plans, finishes, cabinetry, flooring, textiles, and room concepts. In this case, approximately six months of design development preceded two years 18 slmag.net

of construction, followed by the final stages of furnishing and accessorizing. The resulting interiors are richly detailed, but never burdened by their own refinement. "When you walk through that house, we've done our job because you just feel the happiness," he says. Deaton’s approach also explains the home's successful mix of high and low. Not every piece needs to be a collectible or a custom commission to earn its place.

Some things are worth splurging on for their craftsmanship, longevity, or sheer beauty. Others are chosen because they make a room feel more welcoming, more interesting, or simply more fun. Together, they create an atmosphere that feels collected rather than decorated, elegant without being intimidating. "This was one of our most creative, beautiful projects," Deaton reflects, "and I'm so proud of it." sl

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Her New York Moment

From childhood dreams stitched together with tissues and handkerchiefs to a career-defining bow in New York, Renee Cunningham has always believed in the possibility of a beautiful dress. Written by Bridget Cottrell / Photos by Adam Alexander and Kaitlyn Antoniadis Photography Renee Cunningham only told a small circle of close confidants that she’d be showing a collection of 10 bridal gowns during New York Fashion Week this past September. In fact, she kept the news under wraps until just a week before the runway presentation. The accomplished bridal designer is no stranger to the spotlight, having made multiple appearances on the TLC network between 2016 and 2019, but she made it clear that she kept her New York debut quiet with her clients in mind. “My brides always come first,” Renee said emphatically, adding that while the show must go on, if something had come up with one of her clients, it would have gone on without her. Still, the high-wattage smile she flashed while taking her bow on the runway said everything about what the experience meant to her. “Hearing the oohs and aahs from the crowd as each gown went down the runway, and their applause for me as I closed the show, was a highlight of my career,” Renee recounted. A go-getter from the get-go, Renee’s path to NYFW didn’t happen by chance. She completed an application that included sketches, images of gowns she’d already created, and a statement outlining her vision for the collection. After talking it through with close friends, Renee decided that rather than veer too avant-garde, she would stay true to the principles that have guided her career. She created 10 traditional bridal gowns designed with timelessness in mind— dresses she could envision a bride pulling from storage decades from now for her granddaughter to wear. “I want my brides to feel confident, beautiful, radiant and fully themselves,” she explained.

Though she hasn’t had a moment’s rest since her runway debut, Renee explained that the experience validated a career she has quite literally built with her own hands, beginning in 2001 with a store in Pensacola, Florida. Her foray into design, however, started well before that. She fondly recalls fashioning a new wedding dress from tissues and handkerchiefs each weekend as a young girl so Barbie could marry Ken in her pink bedroom. “Today my brides are my Barbies,” she said with the easy laugh that has endeared her to scores of women who’ve engaged in what she calls “couch talking” in her studio. And that fondness for pink? It has endured, making the rosy exterior of her atelier on Walton Avenue a local landmark. Largely self-taught, Renee quickly credits a pair of seamstresses who worked for her early in her career. They tasked her with creating patterns from paper bags and taking dresses apart and reassembling them so she could understand every aspect of their construction. The result? “I know how to mold a dress to a body.” Today, Renee creates a new line each year along with scores of completely custom gowns for clients near and far, noting that

she has outfitted brides in 46 states to date. Walking into her light-filled studio, even as a grown woman, I can’t help but feel a little giddy, marveling at the confections of silk and lace displayed throughout the space. After more than two decades in the business, she says the wonder and fervor for her craft endures. “It’s what I love with my body and soul,” she emoted. Running a small business comes with challenges and personal sacrifices, and Renee shared that part of the secret to her success has been refusing to take “no” for an answer. “There is always a ‘how,’ even if it’s not the preferred path,” she emphasized. That philosophy may yet take her back to New York. Asked whether she’d like to return to the runway, Renee didn’t hesitate to say at least once more. “I have three grandbabies and would love to see them in the audience and be inspired.” After all, her own journey began as a little girl in a pink bedroom, with no idea where those tiny gowns might one day lead. More than two decades into a career built stitch by stitch, bride by bride, she now knows better than most that inspiration can begin anywhere, and sometimes, it comes dressed in white. sl slmag.net

THE CALL OF THE COUNTRYSIDE For nearly a century and a half, the Iroquois Hunt Club has upheld a sporting tradition grounded in horsemanship, camaraderie, and a heartfelt appreciation for the Bluegrass landscape. Written by Bridget Cottrell Photography by Tony Bailey

On a recent Wednesday morning, at the crest of a hill on a bucolic farm just east of Lexington, an Impressionist’s dream took shape. Along the eastern horizon, a soft wash of apricot and blush pink illuminated silvery ribbons of mist hovering above the hay bales. A herd of black baldy cattle appeared as phantoms in the field, grazing languidly on dew-glazed grass. As the honeyed glow spread across the undulating pastures, horse trailers rumbled down the gravel road, breaking the morning stillness. The cattle remained unbothered by the commotion, perhaps accustomed to a scene that has played out across eastern Fayette County farmland 24 slmag.net

since General Roger D. Williams founded the Iroquois Hunt Club (IHC) in 1880. Me m b e r s g r e e t e d o n e a n o t h e r warmly as they readied their mounts, a mix of off-the-track Thoroughbreds, Irish-Sport Horses, Quarter Horses, and Draft Horse crosses. While much of the equestrian world emphasizes individual achievement—whether in the meticulousness of dressage, the speed of show jumping, or the polish of the hunter ring—fox hunting allows horses to indulge one of their most fundamental instincts: the desire to be part of a herd. “Having a horse with good feet and a good brain are the most important,” said

Dr. Jack van Nagell, who was welcomed into the hunt with open arms after joining so that he could spend more time with his late wife, Betsy, a lifelong IHC member who served as field secretary for more than 35 years. Dr. van Nagell’s influence reaches well beyond the Bluegrass. As a past president of the Masters of Foxhounds Association of North America, he helped guide the sport at the national level. The riders’ distinctive attire— tailored hunt coats, immaculate breeches, polished tall boots, and helmets—visually expresses a centuries-old sporting tradition embedded in symbolism, hierarchy, and respect for the horse, hound, and

countryside. Every piece performs a practical purpose grounded in safety, while communicating a subtle language of membership and accomplishment. The iconic scarlet coat, known as hunting pinks, is traditionally reserved for masters, huntsmen, and members who have earned the privilege of wearing their hunt’s colors. Arriving properly “turned-out”, with gleaming tack, polished boots, and a clean horse, demonstrates respect for tradition and for the landowners who permit passage across their property, explained Knox van Nagell Pfister, a Master of Foxhounds for the IHC. “Hunting is like my church,” she joked. “I get dressed up, and I’m on time.”

Although entitled to wear hunting pinks, Knox prefers a formal blue coat with a robin’s-egg blue collar, signifying that she has been awarded the Iroquois Hunt colors. The club’s distinctive horsehead insignia, said to be unique among American hunts, pays homage to Iroquois, the American-bred Thoroughbred whose historic 1881 Epsom Derby victory electrified horse racing fans on both sides of the Atlantic, and inspired General Roger D. Williams to name his hunt club in the horse’s honor. Knox’s father, Dr. van Nagell, a Joint Master of the Hunt, wore a scarlet coat first donned by an IHC master in the

1930s. Its deep red appeared particularly striking against his horse’s flea-bitten gray coat. Amid a world increasingly inclined toward informality, the pageantry of the hunt field reminds us that some traditions endure precisely because their participants take such care to honor them. Knox and Dr. van Nagell weren't the only parent-child pairing that morning. Benny Williams, who began fox hunting at age nine and is the former President of IHC, believes these multigenerational connections speak to the club’s place as a treasured Kentucky tradition. “Some of the best memories of my dad are on the hunt,” Knox recalled. slmag.net

Joint Master Frank Becker, originally from Maryland, is a prime example of how this special sport connected generations of his own family. Having grown up in Maryland, Frank rode with his father as a boy, who was also an avid foxhunter and horseman. Paying it forward, Frank then shared hunting with his own son, Evan, who developed his love of the horse in the hunt field and later became an equine vet in Lexington. Frank says he hopes to continue the family tradition by sharing the joys of hunting with his grandsons once they are old enough to sit in the saddle. T h e re w a s a n o t a b l e u p t i c k i n the energy level as the trailer carrying the hounds arrived at the farm. Their 26 slmag.net

spirited chorus reverberated across the countryside and announced their keenness to take to the fields. Iroquois Joint Master and Huntsman Lilla Mason, the first woman to have carried the club’s horn since its founding in 1880, handed each rider a slender strip of paper listing the names of the English and Welsh hounds participating that morning, ranging in age from one to nine. In 2000, the Hound Welfare Fund was established to care for IHC’s retired foxhounds— becoming the first hunt in the country to provide cradle-tograve care for its pack. Of the club’s 72 hounds, approximately 20 are retirees, happily spending their golden years with

unrestricted access to a 20-acre fenced turnout and climate-controlled indoor facilities. “The hunt career for our hounds is ten years, which is well above the average,” Lilla said with pride. Following a traditional stirrup cup and welcome remarks from the Masters, Aliina Keers, Professional Huntsman for Iroquois, “unboxed” 10 “couple” or 20 hounds from the trailer, and “cast” the pack into the fields. Almost immediately, their noses dropped to the earth as they searched for the elusive scent left behind by a coyote. As the coyote moves, scent from glands in its paws, along with other bodily secretions and microscopic particles, creates a trail that can linger long after it has moved on. Moisture, temperature, wind, and terrain all influence how that scent travels and how long it remains detectable. The hunting season, which extends from early fall through early spring, coincides with the period when agricultural fields are largely at rest. Cool, damp mornings, when dew clings to the grass and mist settles into low-lying pastures, are particularly favorable for scenting. Nearly thirty years ago, migratory patterns of the coyote changed, and they became prevalent in Central Kentucky. In response, IHC shifted its focus from foxes to coyotes, and adapted its breeding program by importing larger hounds from England, better suited to pursuing the more wide-ranging quarry. As adaptable predators, coyotes play an important ecological role, helping regulate populations of rodents and other small mammals. However, when they “pack up” in larger numbers, their predatory presence can also create challenges for agricultural operations, particularly those raising sheep, goats, and young calves.

The activity of hounds and riders keeps coyotes on the move, discouraging them from frequenting certain pastures and reducing encounters with vulnerable livestock. More broadly, the relationship between the IHC and participating landowners conveys a shared interest in responsible land stewardship and preserving the working countryside for future generations. When a hound picks up a scent, the others quickly join in, creating a cacophony that builds into a rolling crescendo of throaty bellows, sharp yelps, and melodious howls. To the practiced ear, it is a language unto itself, communicating the excitement of a freshly discovered trail, the immediacy of pursuit, and the pack’s common determination. As the hounds break into a sprint, the athleticism of horse and hound comes into full view. For riders and horses alike, the

thrill lies solely in the chase. “Seeing the hounds catch a scent will give you a chill every time,” Lilla remarked. The most accomplished riders follow immediately behind Huntsman Aliina, keeping pace by jumping fences between fields, while a second group maintains a brisk tempo, passing through open gates. Hilltoppers follow at a more leisurely pace, relishing the spectacle from elevated vantage points. At Iroquois, riders of all experience levels can participate. “We can meet anyone at their respective level,” Benny explained. The huntsman’s distinctive horn calls provide a time-honored way to direct the pack, signal changes in the pursuit, and communicate with riders scattered across the countryside. Modern technology supplements tradition: GPS and radio collars on the hounds, along with handheld radios, help maintain communication and safeguard horses,

riders, and hounds alike. Throughout the hunt, Iroquois members in vehicles patrol the perimeter, ready to retrieve any hound that strays or, as happened during our outing, simply decides the search for a scent isn't quite finished. As dawn’s dew dissipated, taking the favorable scenting conditions with it, the riders gathered for a headcount. The hounds, still remarkably fresh after covering nearly six miles, rolled contentedly in the grass and milled around Aliina’s horse, hoping to catch one of the treats she tossed their way. I had been following that morning’s hunt as a passenger in a Polaris UTV graciously piloted by Lilla, and the pause gave me a chance to mingle with the pack. Despite their imposing size and abundant energy in the field, these gentle giants were perfectly content to wait patiently for a chin scratch. slmag.net

Lilla's passion for the hunt, like that of nearly every member I encountered, is embedded within the fabric of her life. She and Knox are especially keen to expand the club’s junior program and introduce a new generation to the sport's pleasures and responsibilities. "It’s so wonderful for kids to get to experience agriculture, the outdoors, and the rhythms of the natural world,” Lilla said. Knox agreed, observing that “in today’s world, mounted hunting with hounds is a much-needed antidote to get kids off of their screens.” Knox speaks from experience, as both of her children, aged 16 and 12, started at a young age and continue to hunt every week. While the IHC’s hunting territory encompasses approximately fifty square miles of contiguous farmland, its soul lies at Grimes Mill, the club’s historic headquarters on Boone Creek near the Kentucky River. Purchased in 1928, the former industrial complex was transformed into a sporting headquarters, an unusual distinction among traditional 28 slmag.net

hunt clubs. The old mill became the clubhouse, while kennels, stables, and a huntsman’s residence were established n e a r b y. T h a t s a m e y e a r, I r o q u o i s inaugurated an annual horse show and barbecue honoring the landowners who allow the hunt to cross their farms, saluting a relationship that has always been fundamental to mounted hunting. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Grimes Mill remains a bustling gathering place, hosting member dinners several times a month, the annual Blessing of the Hounds in November, and a December meet-and-greet with Santa, among other special events. Current IHC President Cabby Boone is deeply committed to the Mill and is enthusiastic in her efforts to expand opportunities for members to gather and connect there. The IHC also organizes hound walks, hunter paces, and other equestrian activities that welcome broader community participation. For all the ceremony, camaraderie, and exhilaration of the chase, conversations with

Iroquois members invariably return to the land. Joint-Master Knox van Nagell Pfister recalled the old Kentucky proverb, “If you take care of the land, it will take care of you,” a sentiment that aptly informs the club’s enduring commitment to land stewardship and its recognition of the farmers whose generosity makes the sport possible. “We’re everyday people celebrating the land, promoting community, and honoring our hounds, horses, and quarry,” Knox added. T h e I H C ’s p h i l o s o p h y f e e l s particularly fitting in this corner of the Bluegrass, where the landscape is a living inheritance, nurtured by generations of farmers, equestrians, and families who understand that its beauty and traditions are inseparable. On hunt mornings, when the rising sun gilds the pastures and the vocalization of the hounds echoes across the hills, the Iroquois Hunt offers something increasingly rare: a chance to experience that inheritance not as a spectator, but as an integral part of its continuing story. sl

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A Legacy of Grace Giving

For more than six decades, the Blue Grass Charity Ball has brought generations of Lexington families together in a treasured December tradition celebrating young women, community service, and the abiding spirit of philanthropy. Written by Bridget Cottrell / Photos courtesy of The Blue Grass Charity Ball For many Southern families, a debutante ball represents a rite of passage entwined in the fabric of family lore, an occasion when mothers and grandmothers see their own youthful memories reflected in a new generation. While the social conventions that gave rise to debutante balls have evolved, the traditions have endured, sustained as much by friendships, philanthropy, and the feeling of fellowship they foster as by the ceremony itself. In Lexington, few events embody this perennial appeal quite like the Blue Grass Charity Ball, whose origins date to December 1961, when fourteen young women made their formal debut in the ballroom of the storied Phoenix Hotel. Organized by the Lexington Symphony Women's League, the inaugural Blue Grass Charity Ball was envisioned as something more meaningful than an elegant evening of dancing and celebration. Its founders sought to create an organization through which members could devote their time, talents, and resources to improving their community while raising funds for charitable causes. Among the women instrumental in establishing the tradition were Mrs. Lawrence Jenkins, president of the Lexington Symphony Women's League; Mrs. Hampton Adams, the inaugural ball chairman; Mrs. John Winn; Mrs. William R. Hilliard; Mrs. Duncan Stewart; Mrs. Frazee Wilson; Mrs. John Marr; Mrs. Emmet Milward; and Mrs. Leonard Cox Jr. Their collective vision established a legacy that has endured for more than six decades. From its earliest years, the ball occupied a distinctive place on Lexington's social calendar. Held each December, it continues to bring together families and friends to celebrate a new generation of young women while imprinting the importance of civic responsibility. For debutantes, the occasion represented a milestone in their transition to adulthood, steeped in the traditions of formal presentation and gracious hospitality. For their families, it offered an opportunity to participate in a joint experience that, in some cases, would come full circle when daughters and granddaughters took their own turns in the spotlight. “The generational appeal is strong in Lexington,” remarked Laura Adams, who chaired the 50th Blue Grass Charity Ball. The event's prominence was already well established by the early 1970s. A 1974 issue of The Arrow, the magazine of Pi Beta Phi fraternity, described the annual ball as one of Lexington's most 30 slmag.net

significant social occasions, noting that fifteen young women had been presented in December 1973. Over the years, the celebration moved among some of Lexington's notable gathering places, including Idle Hour Country Club, where debutantes were presented in 1977. Although the white gowns, formal presentations, and festive December atmosphere have long epitomized the ball's public image, philanthropy has remained its central purpose. Through the Blue Grass Charity Foundation, the event has supported an extensive roster of nonprofit organizations addressing needs throughout Central Kentucky, ranging from healthcare and education to historic preservation, the arts, and social services. Past beneficiaries have included the Lexington Philharmonic Society, Lexington Children's Theatre, the Carnegie Center for Literacy & Learning, Habitat for Humanity, the Hope Center, Ronald McDonald House, Central Kentucky Riding for Hope, and the University of Kentucky Arboretum. Other recipients, including Baby Health Services, CASA of Lexington, and Chrysalis House, reflect the foundation's longstanding pledge to improving the lives of vulnerable children and families. Today, the foundation emphasizes the connection linking tradition and service, encouraging young women to recognize their aptitude to make a meaningful contribution in their communities. In doing so, its mission goes beyond a single evening, nurturing a multigenerational culture of philanthropy, leadership, and civic engagement. In 2026, under the leadership of foundation president Alice Dearborn and ball chair Hart Boardman, the organization selected Ashland Terrace, Baby Health, CASA, Chrysalis House, and Mission Lexington as grant recipients, continuing the founders' pledge to support organizations across a wide range of philanthropic interests. More than six decades after fourteen debutantes gathered at the Phoenix Hotel, the Blue Grass Charity Ball continues as a reflection of Lexington's ability to honor its past as it invests in its future. Such is the real magic of these grand Southern affairs: the ability to make something old feel meaningful to someone new. Beyond the elegant gowns, polished dance floors, and holiday finery lies the persistent belief that tradition is most valuable when it serves a purpose beyond itself, proving that while times change, the desire to belong to something larger than ourselves is always en vogue. sl

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THE ART OF BELONGING At Salamander Middleburg, Sheila Johnson’s singular vision brings together equestrian heritage, pastoral beauty, exceptional dining, and deeply personal hospitality in the Virginia countryside. Written by Lee Milward Photos courtesy of Salamander Resort

Traveling along Route 50 just outside Washington, DC, the gridlock eases, office parks give way to pasture, and the quiet of the bucolic landscape elicits a deep, welcoming exhale. Verdant gentle hills roll toward the horizon; their verdant broad fields stitched together like a quilt by the fence line. Dotted throughout, centuries-old stone houses and barns stand as reminders of Virginia’s long agricultural history. By the time Salamander Middleburg’s gates come into view, the city already feels distant. What awaits isn’t simply another luxury resort, but a place with the warmth and familiarity of an old friend. That was Sheila Johnson’s experience long before Salamander existed. She first

came to Middleburg for the riding, drawn by the quiet rhythm of Virginia’s horse country. What she discovered was 340 pastoral acres that immediately felt personal. Rather than keep that feeling to herself, she created a resort designed to share it. Johnson’s philosophy reveals itself in thoughtful ways, and tangibly from the moment of arrival. The lobby is called the Living Room because Johnson believes hospitality should feel welcoming rather than transactional. As she puts it, guests should feel like family, not visitors. Artwork throughout the resort comes from her personal collection, lending the interiors the character of a lived-in home rather than a carefully staged hotel. Guest rooms feature fireplaces prepared for cool evenings and balconies overlooking the

rolling countryside. I spent my first afternoon wandering between the terrace and my room with nowhere to be, content to admire uninterrupted views of immaculate pastures. Mornings quickly became my favorite time, when mist lingered over the hills and the day still held endless possibility. Guests are greeted with a proclamation of the property’s guiding principles in a personal welcome message: “Diversity of thought, and of people. Empowering women. Humanity. Supporting the arts. Truth. Because at Salamander, we’re real.” For me, reading them reframed the experience, reminding me that Salamander reflects the vision of one woman determined to build a resort rooted in authenticity rather than convention. slmag.net

The Living Room

The land on which the resort sits holds a remarkable history. Long before Salamander, it belonged to diplomat Pamela Harriman, and Jacqueline Kennedy was among those who rode these trails during visits to Middleburg. Rather than erase that legacy, Johnson embraced it, drawing inspiration from her nearby horse farm so the architecture would feel inseparable from its surroundings. Harrimans restaurant continues to honor Pamela Harriman’s name, linking one steward of the property to another. The resort’s accolades are considerable. Salamander is one of only a handful of properties in the United States to earn a Forbes Five-Star rating for its accommodations, restaurant, and spa, while Condé Nast Traveler consistently ranks it among the South’s finest resorts. Impressive as those distinctions are, the resort’s character is evident long before you hear about its awards. As someone raised in the saddle in the heart of Kentucky’s Bluegrass region, Salamander’s equestrian program was a 34 slmag.net

major draw, and it became the axis of my daily experiences. The 25-acre Equestrian Center includes a 14,000-square-foot stable with 22 stalls, nine paddocks, and an outdoor arena. Guests may bring their own horses for full-service boarding, complete with daily care, turnout, grooming, bathing, and braiding. Riding these trails, which wind through postand-rail fencing and open countryside, felt less like a resort activity than a return to a familiar way of life. Dining centers on Harrimans, where Virginia Piedmont ingredients are handled with confidence and care. The nearby Middleburg AVA continues to produce increasingly impressive Cabernet Francs, making local wines an easy pairing. For a more relaxed evening, Gold Cup Wine Bar offers eclectic small plates alongside an extensive wine list, while the Culinary Garden supplies the kitchen with seasonal produce. Guests seeking a more immersive experience can reserve the Chef ’s Table inside the Cooking Studio.

The Library

Estate Double Queen Guestroom

Grand Estate King Guestroom

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Cupcake, Salamander’s resident miniature horse and equine brand ambassador is a favorite among guests of all ages.

Equestrian pursuits at the Salamander Middleburg resort are centered around a stateof-the-art, 25-acre Equestrian Center that offers trail rides, professional riding lessons, and unique unmounted horsemanship programs.

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The spa encourages you to surrender your schedule altogether. Following a heavenly Salamander Signature Massage, time seemed blissfully irrelevant as I continued the relaxed interlude beside the intimate spa pool. For guests seeking activity rather than stillness, the wellness program includes customized fitness experiences designed to prepare participants for challenges ranging from personal milestones to mountain summits. Johnson envisioned the spa as a place for personal discovery as much as relaxation, but even without booking a treatment, that philosophy is easy to embrace over a game of croquet or a leisurely round of life-sized chess on the lawn. You can also luxuriate in leisure at the new Champions Pool, although the name belies the grandness of the oneacre complex, anchored by an upper-level family pool connected to a lower adultsonly pool by a 40-foot-long infinity-edge waterfall. Two years in the making and artfully integrated into the surrounding Virginia countryside, the space boasts handcrafted stonework, lush landscaping and a large firepit. Private cabanas and plush loungers invite lingering, while thoughtful touches—including chilled towels, sunglass cleaning, frozen candied grapes and freshly prepared smoothies—elevate an afternoon by the water. When hunger or happy hour calls, The Stirrup Cup, a 2,000-square-foot open-air bar and dining destination, serves seasonal fare, handcrafted cocktails and thoughtfully selected wines from the resort’s Five-Star culinary team. At the Champions Pool opening this past April, Johnson remarked, “My hope is that it becomes a place filled with laughter, connection and memorable moments—a place where the water sparkles, conversations flow and the Salamander spirit shines.” Of all my memories from Salamander, one stands apart. During the afternoon meet-and-greet in the Living Room, I was introduced to Cupcake, the resort’s miniature horse ambassador. Dressed in sparkling hoof boots and colorful ribbons,

Photos this page by Lee Milward

she clip-clopped confidently among guests, patiently posing for photographs while accepting guests’ admiration with practiced grace. While she may be the smallest resident on the property, she’s undoubtedly one of its biggest stars. B e y o n d t h e re s o r t l i e s o n e o f Virginia’s most charming small towns. Founded in 1787 by Revolutionary War officer Leven Powell, Middleburg still revolves around a single traffic light. More than 160 of its buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and generations of local families continue to operate antique shops, boutiques, galleries, and cafés. Saturdays bring a farmers’ market to the village green, while each spring the Virginia Gold Cup draws thousands dressed in their finest for one of the country’s premier steeplechase events. Wa n d e r i n g t h e t ow n , I f o u n d beautifully curated shops filled with antiques, equestrian treasures, and clothing chosen with the same understated elegance that defines the surrounding countryside. Nothing feels manufactured for tourists. Middleburg remains exactly what it

has long been: a town built on horses, hospitality, and tradition. Johnson tells every guest that her goal is simple: personalized service, genuine hospitality, and a stay worth remembering. By my final morning, it was clear those weren’t marketing promises but guiding principles. As I made my way back to DC for the flight home, Route 50 unfolded in reverse as the gates closed behind me, followed by the fence lines, stone walls, and green pastures. Before long, Washington’s traffic reclaimed the horizon. Along the way, I thought about Cupcake making her afternoon rounds, guests gathering on the veranda before dinner at Harrimans, and the horses settling quietly into their stalls for the evening, coming to an understanding of what Sheila Johnson must have felt when she first stood on Salamander’s 340 acres. Before there were suites, restaurants, or a Forbes Five-Star resort, there was simply a landscape that inspired an extraordinary vision. She transformed it into a place where strangers arrive as guests and leave feeling as though they’ve discovered somewhere they belong. sl slmag.net

Of note... Vanity Flair Compiled by Bridget Cottrell

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1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

Maison Valentina Darian Vanity Cabinet, Stiletto Stool and Cay Console (maisonvalentina.net) Hastings Bath Collection Lamé Vanity (hastingsbathcollection.com) Drench Billy Wall Hung Vanity (drench.co.uk) Devon & Devon Music Junior Vanity (devon-devon.com/int) Balcoon Wall-Mounted Console Vaniity by Patricia Urquiola for Duravit (duravit.com) Covet House Nazca Celadon Vanity Cabinet, Helios Wall Mirror, Cyrus Scones (covethouse.eu) Stone Forest Petite Renaissance Vanity (stoneforest.com)

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Dear

Santa This year I'm wishing for something extraordinary.

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11 10

Paintings from Photo hand-painted oil portrait (from $299; paintingsfromphoto.com) 2. Thom Browne Hector Browne Football dog vest ($720; thombrowne.com) 3. Michael Aram dog scoop ($75; michaelaram.com) 4. Scruffs Aspen pet blanket ($33; petslovescruffs.com) 5. Charley Chau Deeply Dishy dog bed ($220; charleychau.com) 6. Neverwoof MM pet carrier from Louis Vuitton ($2,670; us.louisvuitton.com) 7. Hermes On-The-Go dog pouch ($800; hermes.com) 8. Wedgwood Large Florentine Verde pet bowl ($255; wedgwood.com) 9. Lucchese dog leash ($345; lucchese.com) 10. Kona Cave faux fur travel dog bed (from $159; konacave.com) 11. Prada Re-Nylon pet collar ($525; prada.com) 12. Lambwolf Typewriter plush dog toy ($24; lambwolf.co) 13. French Bedroom Ma Petit Douceur pet bed ($529; frenchbedroom.co.uk)

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Dear Santa, I've been very... 1 4

2 3

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...very good 10

11 1.

13 12

Oscar Heyman Invisibly Set Ruby Ring (price on request). Inquire through Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis, Elleard B. Heffern & Simons Jewelers in St. Louis and oscarheyman.com. 2. Buccellati Muse Bracelet ($190,000). Inquire through Simons Jewelers in St. Louis and buccellati.com. 3. Grace Winfrey Blue Doves Bracelet ($89,950; gracewinfrey.com) 4. Daniel Yu Momentum Fire Horse Brooch ($32,000; danielyujewelry.com) 5. Mindi Mond Bi-Color Watermelon Tourmaline Earrings (price on request; mindimondnewyork.com) 6. David Gotlib Madison Cufflinks ($19,500; davidgotlib.com) 7. Yutai Modular Necklace ($54,167; yutai.jewelry) 8. Michael M Montage Cushion Cut Drop Earrings (price on request). Inquire through Richter & Phillips Jewelers in Cincinnati, Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, Genesis Diamonds in Nashville and Michaelm.com. 9. Miseno Italy One-of-a-Kind Bracelet (price on request; misenoitaly.com) 10. Austy Lee Bespoke Brooch (price on request; austyleeartjewellery.com) 11. Picchiotti’s Emerald Wonder Necklace (price on request). Inquire through Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis, Clarkson Jewelers in St. Louis and picchiotti.it. 12. Harwell Godfrey De Beers Cushion Champagne Diamond Buckle Ring (price on request; harwellgodfrey.com) 13. Rahaminov Diamonds Soleil Ring (price on request). Inquire through Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis, Davis Jewelers in Louisville, Diamond Cellar in Nashville, Simons Jewelers in St. Louis, and rahaminov.com 14. David Yurman Ouroboros Brooch ($45,000). Inquire 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. 15. John Hardy Men’s Love Knot Bracelet ($38,900). Available through Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, Davis Jewelers in Louisville and johnhardy.com

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I want to get up and glow

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Technogym Reformer ($13,670; technogym.com) Knesko Skin Gold Repair Collection ($95-$260; knesko.com) Memo Paris x Thomas Lélu limited-edition Darling Point collection ($340/750ml) Tréca Paris Auguste Sleeping System (price on request; treca-paris.com) La Prairie Platinum Rare Haute-Rejuvenation Ritual ($3,090; laprairie.com) Paris is always a good idea and it’s even better with an indulgent spa day at the Shangri-La Paris (shangri-la.com/paris/). Book a customizable CHI Yu Massage, designed to stimulate blood circulation and deeply relax the mind using personalized essential oil blends. Follow it up with a dip in the indoor pool, located in the former stables of Prince Roland Bonaparte’s historic private residence, and cap off the afternoon with lunch in the lush garden at Maison Roland, offering a peek-a-boo view of the Eiffel Tower Valmont Fuchsia Odyssey Advent Calendar ($580; lamaisonvalmont.com)

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For those who want their horsepower with a decidedly futuristic edge, the new MIRAVA M800E is rethinking the dayboat for the electric age. Measuring just under 26 feet and accommodating up to eight guests, the sleek smart boat pairs a 100 kWh battery with up to 150 horsepower and a top speed of 20 knots for quiet, emissions-free cruising. But its cleverest features go well beyond propulsion: intelligent technology includes assisted docking, dynamic positioning and autonomous following, while a smart wearable can prompt the boat to follow along as its owner swims, dives or paddleboards. A modular stern transforms to accommodate everything from watersports and fishing to lounging at anchor, with a detachable section that can even operate independently as a tender. Making its global debut at the 2026 Cannes Yachting Festival, the M800E offers an intriguing glimpse at a future where boating is quieter, smarter and considerably more effortless (quote on request; miravaboats.com)

The 2027 Valhalla Boatworks V 55 Sport Yacht blends the exhilarating performance of a supersized center console with the comfort and refinement of a cruising yacht. The flagship rides on a Michael Peters Yacht Design Stepped-V Ventilated Tunnel hull and harnesses 2,400 horsepower from four Mercury Verado V12 600 outboards for a fast, stable and efficient ride. Above deck, multiple configurations transform the aft cockpit into an enviable entertaining space with options for a summer kitchen, bar and generous seating, while below deck, premium accommodations make extended weekends on the water an enticing proposition. With a 1,100-gallon fuel capacity and the engineering pedigree of parent company Viking Yachts, the 55 SY proves you don't have to choose between going fast and going first class (from $3,160,000; valhallaboatworks.com)

I want to make waves

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Dear Santa, it's about time 1.

Rolex Perpetual Padellone ($72,000). Inquire through Richter & Phillips Jewelers in Cincinnati, Reis-Nichols in Indianapolis, Schiffman’s Jewelers in Lexington, Davis Jewelers in Louisville, Diamond Cellar in Nashville, Clarkson Jewelers and Simons Jewelers in St. Louis and rolex.com. Hublot Classic Fusion Balloon Dog by Jeff Koons ($25,100). Inquire through Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis and hublot.com. Louis Erard x Konstantin Chaykin Limited-Edition Unfrogettable ($5,400; louiserard.com) Longines Conquest Heritage Central Power Reserve ($4,300). Available through Richter & Phillips Jewelers in Cincinnati, Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis, Schiffman’s Jewelers in Lexington, Davis Jewelers in Louisville, and longines.com. Actor Patrick Dempsey wearing a TAG Heuer Carrera Sport Chronograph ($6,850). Available through Reis Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, Davis Jewelers in Louisville, Diamond Cellar in Nashville, Clarkson Jewelers in St. Louis and tagheuer.com.

2. 3. 4.

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I want Horsepower

From July 11-16, 2027, Hunter Moss’ Swiss Supercar Tour will offer a rare opportunity to traverse Switzerland’s dramatic landscapes and sweeping lakeside roads from behind the wheel of a fleet of legendary supercars, including an Aston Martin Vantage Roadster and a Bentley GTC. Every detail of the ultra-luxe holiday is handled with quiet precision, from dining to luggage transfers. From $18,490 per person with an optional add-on VIP visit to the Goodwood Festival of Speed with helicopter transport; huntermoss.com.

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I want arm candy 1. 2. 3. 4. 1

Marc Cross Romy 25 ($2,290; markcross.com) Mellerio Étoile de Minuit Pendant Clutch (price upon request); Nail Ornaments from $2,174; us.mellerio.fr Cult Gaia Kazia Crossbody Bag ($598; cultgaia.com) Parker & Thatch's GIANT tote in Leopard ($1,200; parkerthatch.com) Perrin Paris Le Panier ($1,800; perrinparis.com)

I want to be warm and fuzzy 3 2

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

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XiRENA's Cub Scout Ridge Pullover ($345; xirena.com) Zadig & Voltaire F/W 2026 (zadig-et-voltaire.com) Suzie Kondi's Kyma Double-Faced Cashmere Coat ($2,950; suziekondi.com) The Verellen Butterfly stool from Urban Natural Home ($2,200; urbannatural.com) House of Dagmar Wool/Cashmere Beanie ($290; houseofdagmar.com/us) Dandelion Design 100% Cashmere Coverlet ($2,250; dandyliondesign.com) Noah Double Campus Jacket ($498), Lambswool Scarf ($48), Classic Oxford Shirt ($168); Pleated Tartan Trouser ($598; noahny.com) Photo by Paul Hempsted

want to put a ring on it 2

1 4

11 10

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12.

Zahn-Z Big ZAHA Art Deco Old Mine Cut ($39,000; zahnzjewelry.com) Fie Isolde Deco Emerald Diamond Ring Light ($16,500; fieisolde.com) Alder Fine Jewelry Pear Diamond Lunar Floating Ring ($26,348; alderfinejewellery.com.au) Jennifer Dawes Design The Magical Moon Diamond Ring ($13,475). Inquire through Ylang Ylang Jewelers in St. Louis, and dawes-design.com. Chris Ploof Designs Audrey Ring (price on request; chrisploof.com) Gabriel & Co. Iolana Platinum Ring ($10,700/setting only). Inquire through Richter & Phillips Jewelers in Cincinnati, Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis, Rivard Fine Jewelert in Lexington, Genesis Diamonds in Nashville, and gabrielny.com. Harry Kotlar Circa1920 Ring (price on request). Inquire through Schiffman’s Jewelers in Lexington, and harrykotlar.com Sorellina Nomad Ring ($85,000). Inquire through Reis-Nichols Jewelers in Indianapolis, Hearth & Soul in St. Louis, and sorellinanyc.com. JB Star Channel Set Diamond Gentlemans Band (price on request). Inquire through Reis-Nichols Jewlers in Indianapolis, Davis Jewelers in Louisville, Clarkson Jewelers and Simons Jewelers in St. Louis, and jbstar.com. Tacori Dahlia Sculpted Double-Petal Pavé-Intense Ring ($20,390). Inquire through Moyer Fine Jewelers in Indianapolis, Rivard Fine Jewelers in Lexington, Genesis Diamonds in Nashville, and tacori.com. Kirk Kara Dahlia Wheat Engraved Milgrain Rose Gold Wedding Band (from $5,480). Inquire through Richter & Phillips Jewelers in Cincinnati, Genesis Diamonds in Nashcille and kirkkara.com. DY Eden Pavé Engagement Ring (price on request). Inquire 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.

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IN DEFENSE OF ANONYMOUS BISTRO WINE Written and photographed by Vicki Denig

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Paris is undoubtedly one of the best places in the world to drink wine, especially if the bottles you’re after are French. From legendary establishments with Biblelike lists to jewel box natural wine bars with just a few seats, drinking through the city’s top wine bars is a lifetime endeavor—yet despite the “insanely priced” Burgundy and accessible back-vintage Bordeaux, I still find myself reaching for anonymous wine. The nameless. The mysterious. The unidentifiable. Whatever you want to call them, my heart still yearns for them, even after 10+ years of tasting the best that the industry has to offer (perhaps more so than ever, in retrospect). In an age where popping bottles feels more like a show than an enjoyable experience (thanks, Instagram), I find myself craving a taste of the past; enter anonymous bistro wine, a place where a piece of my heart lives forever. Every bistro in Paris has some sort of a wine section—this is France, after all. However, contrary to the sought-after producers and esoteric cuvée names that flood greater and more grandiose lists, bistro wine generally sells itself by region and region alone. For whites, you’ll almost always find something from the Loire Valley (Touraine, Saumur, Pouilly-Fumé) and Bourgogne, plus a pour or two from the Languedoc (IGP Pays d’Oc) or Southwest (Côtes de Gascogne). Similarly, the red section often highlights Bordeaux, Beaujolais, and the Loire Valley, with Côtes du Rhône and Burgundy also usually present—and let’s not forget rosé. There’s always, at minimum, one or two rosés. At its best, bistro wine is drinkable. I don’t think I’ve ever had a glass that left any lasting impression on me, but who the hell cares? Bistro wine serves a purpose. Sure, getting drunk could be one of them (and for most people, it is), but for me, it’s a reminder of simplicity and an opportunity to be present. While pondering and poring over exquisite bottles is certainly justified, basic bistro wine offers a moment of presence. In shifting my focus from what’s in the glass to what’s outside of it, I find myself experiencing so much more: the warmth of afternoon sunlight hitting my hands and cheeks, the smell of a piping hot steak frites being served at the table next to me, the sound of mundane French conversations and bizarrely pitched Parisian ambulances (I’ll never get over that noise). Plenty of wine pros out there will scoff at the idea, saying the same could be done with a hot cup of coffee or bubbly Perrier, but the meaning is so much deeper. Anonymous bistro wine reminds me that not every wine-drinking experience has to be so serious, that there’s still joy to be found in sipping a completely mediocre glass of rosé beneath the Parisian sun. Zero performance, zero bottle shot — just me and my surroundings in one of the world’s greatest cities. Everyone who loves wine started their journey somewhere. For me, it was on the streets of Paris, bistro wine in hand. It was 2014, and I was 23, fresh off my first “job,” an eight-month gig at Sud de France Manhattan that introduced me to the wine world. Hooked and craving more, I spent that summer in Paris tasting whatever I could afford—which at the time, wasn’t much. I had zero reference for what was “cool,” and honestly, thank God. Bistro wine satisfied a gateway curiosity that led me down an unavoidable rabbit hole —one that led me to inevitably outgrow those said simplistic offerings, for the most part. While not a daily occurrence, I still partake in an anonymous glass here and there, letting that first sip whisk me down memory lane and catapult me back to the present for a moment of meditative sipping. It’ll never be a life-changing pour, but it’ll always be a life-affirming one. 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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ISLAND BY DESIGN

From Mandarin Oriental’s polished opulence to Soho Beach House’s barefoot cool, Canouan pairs wild Caribbean beauty with an extraordinary concentration of luxury. Written by Bridget Cottrell Photos courtesy of The Canouan Group

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Nestled between lush, emerald-green hillsides and the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, Mandarin Oriental, Canouan offers an idyllic beachfront retreat, where elegant accommodations overlook a pristine stretch of white sand and the secluded beauty of the Grenadines.

A DIY project looks a little different when you’re a billionaire. In the early 1990s, after Swiss-Italian banker Antonio Saladino was denied permission to build a house on Mustique, he secured a 99-year lease from the government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines for roughly two-thirds of nearby Canouan—an area nearly as large as Mustique itself. He subsequently formed the Canouan Resort Development Company, which committed to investing at least $100 million over a 20-year period to build out the island’s primary infrastructure. At the

time, Canouan was sparsely populated, with more of its famous wild red-footed tortoises than people and no paved roads, electricity or access to desalinated water. Fast-forward several decades, and Canouan Estate (canouanestateresortandvillas. com), which today encompasses a Mandarin Oriental, the Caribbean’s first Soho House outpost, dozens of luxury villas and residences, and an 18-hole, par-72 championship golf course originally designed by Jim Fazio, is now owned by Italian fintech billionaire Andrea Pignataro.

Geographically diverse, one of Canouan’s defining ecological features is the extensive Atlantic barrier reef running along its windward side. Part of one of the Caribbean’s largest living coral reef systems, it acts as a natural shield against powerful Atlantic swells. The leeward side, by contrast, boasts calm turquoise waters and sheltered bays. White-sand beaches ring the island, contrasting with the coastal forest blanketing its rolling hills and steep ridges, which culminate at Mount Royal’s 877-foot peak. slmag.net

The six-bedroom Silver Turtle estate villa is known for its privacy and sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea and barrier reef. It hosted Prince Harry during his 2016 Caribbean tour.

Guests flying commercial typically arrive at Canouan Jet Port via Barbados, a little more than a 45-minute flight by prop plane. From there, it’s a short private transfer to the resort, which at times felt like a live-action version of Frogger as our driver cautiously weaved around scores of tortoises. “The turtles are a good reminder to put yourself on island time,” he said with a chuckle. Canouan was badly battered in 2024 by Hurricane Beryl, the first hurricane to hit the island in 15 years. During the three months the resort was closed, the Canouan Group maintained staff salaries and bonuses while distributing direct aid to help employees rebuild. Today, 10 percent of ongoing guest-stay revenues are earmarked f o r t h e C a n o u a n Re s i l i e n c e Fu n d , 54 slmag.net

supporting initiatives aimed at lessening the impact of future storms. Making the most of the rebuilding period, the Canouan Group is also renovating the golf course and spa and adding another restaurant to the seven already on the property. At full capacity, Canouan Estate hosts a maximum of just 240 guests across its 1,200 acres, offering the peace and quiet of a deserted island without forgoing luxurious creature comforts. A nearly three-to-one staff-to-guest ratio supports a level of service befitting the legacies of both the Mandarin Oriental and Soho House brands. The range of accommodations means that even when traveling with a group, there can still be a “choose your own adventure” aspect to a Canouan stay. Our group of eight lodged in the eight-bedroom,

6,200-square-foot Silver Turtle villa, where a framed thank-you letter from Prince Harry to the owners following his vist was displayed prominently in the entry. Perched high above the Atlantic, both the terrace and infinity pool afforded sweeping views of the ocean, golf course and Mandarin Oriental. Villa guests have access to all resort amenities and restaurants—and a golf cart to reach them—along with daily housekeeping and private butler service. Private chef service is also available at an additional cost. A Forbes Five-Star resort awarded One MICHELIN Key in 2025, the intimate oceanfront Mandarin Oriental is a luxurious escape. The interiors of its 26 suites are a mélange of Chinese Chippendale, Hollywood Regency and British Colonial

Top left: Ocean view pool at the Silver Turtle villa; top right: Bathroom in a Mandarin Oriental private villa; middle left: Treatment room at the Spa at Mandarin Oriental; middle: Terrace and pool of a Mandarin Oriental villa; bottom: Turtles Bar & Lounge inside the Mandarin Oriental

styles, with a mountain’s worth of marble and strategic, maximalist pops of bright color that stand out brilliantly against the turquoise ocean. Separate from the resort but similarly styled, a four-bedroom, threestory Lagoon Villa with an elevator is an indulgent option for group travel, located closer to the estate’s primary amenities, including a supremely well-equipped fitness center and oceanfront pool. Nestled into the hillside above the resort—but not so high that you can’t hear the ocean—are seven sprawling two-bedroom Patio Villas. Built in 2020, their striking European-meetsAsian contemporary interiors employ a muted palette that allows the surrounding landscape to take center stage. Huge sliding glass walls bookend the central living room, framing views of a long infinity-edge pool and the sea beyond. Also tucked into the landscape are private spa treatment suites with jaw dropping views. The treatment menu blends Mandarin Oriental’s signature therapies with island-inspired rituals incorporating ingredients such as coconut, ginger and aloe. Dining at Mandarin Oriental begins with breakfast at Asianne, where local specialties are served with a side of sweeping Atlantic views. TIDES Bar + Grill showcases premium meats, fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients with a subtle Caribbean influence. Lagoon Café takes a Mediterranean approach, pairing Italianaccented seafood and shareable tapas with an open-air perch overlooking Godahl Beach, while the Pool Bar offers lighter, Peruvian Nikkei-inspired fare. slmag.net

At Soho Beach House Canouan, meals are served beneath a breezy dining palapa on a terrace overlooking the Caribbean Sea, blending familiar Soho House favorites with island-inspired dishes cooked over a wood-fired grill.

The interior design at Soho Beach House Canouan skews mid-century and incorporates Soho Home furniture and accessories.

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The 40-room Soho Beach House Canouan is the first Soho House property that doesn't require membership to enjoy the amenities.

In contrast to the Mandarin Oriental’s opulence, the 40-room Soho Beach House Canouan—the first Soho House property where you don’t have to be a member to stay—takes a more barefoot approach to luxury. Located on the island’s west coast, the vibe skews mid-century, from the architecture—three low-rise, wood-built beachside blocks—to interiors incorporating Soho Home furniture and accessories, including rattan, macramé art, radios and rotary telephones. With a slew of Soho House spinoffs spanning interior design to skincare, the in-room amenities are top-notch, from a full lineup of Cowshed bath and body products in the shower to award-winning Soho Skin serums, cleansers and creams on the vanity—which I loved so much I placed an order as soon as I returned home. Dining embodies the property’s relaxed, barefoot approach to Caribbean

luxur y. Meals are ser ved beneath a breezy dining palapa and on the terrace overlooking the Caribbean Sea, blending familiar Soho House favorites with islandinspired dishes cooked over a wood-fired grill. Local flavors take center stage in dishes such as conch fritters, jerk chicken tacos and the catch of the day, alongside Caribbean lobster linguine and refreshing rum-based cocktails. For something casual after a dip in the ocean, the Deli offers pastries, smoothies, snacks and soft-serve ice cream, while those looking to dial up the romance can arrange a bespoke private dinner on the Jetty or directly on the beach. Wellness is a core tenet of Soho House, and the two-story, 24-hour Soho Health Club amply meets the needs of gym junkies and yogis alike. Its impressively equipped fitness center makes it easy to

balance indulgence with a proper workout, while an ethereal second-floor studio hosts a weekly schedule of yoga, Pilates and bootcamp classes. For an alfresco calorie torcher, arrange a guided hike to the peak of Mount Royal, where panoramic island views are an ample reward while you catch your breath. On the restorative side, the spa offers Soho House signature treatments as well as deep-tissue massage. Soho Beach House’s location on Grand Bay Beach also makes it an ideal jumping-off point for a day on the water, combining snorkeling and fishing with a lunch stop on nearby Union Island. Or, hop on one of the beach cruisers parked near reception and pedal out to explore the local community—a fittingly laid-back way to experience an island where, as the tortoises remind you from the moment you arrive, there’s little reason to hurry. sl slmag.net

A TOAST TO A GREATER GOOD The inaugural Palm Beach International Wine Experience brings together world-class vintners, celebrated chefs and extraordinary experiences in support of Palm Beach County’s children.

Palm Beach has long been synonymous with a particular brand of luxury, defined by grand estates, gleaming yachts, exceptional dining and a social calendar that attracts an international crowd. In January, those elements will converge with a larger purpose as the Palm Beach International Wine Experience makes its debut. Taking place January 19–20, 2027, the invitation-only, two-day affair will bring together just 200 philanthropists, collectors, and corporate leaders for an immersive celebration of fine wine and gastronomy 58 slmag.net

centered on charitable giving. Rather than benefiting a single organization, the event will support a network of nonprofits serving children throughout Palm Beach County. At the heart of the initiative is the newly established Palm Beach Children’s Fund, the Wine Experience’s philanthropic arm. Powered by Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County, the fund will serve as an intermediary, directing proceeds toward organizations and strategic initiatives focused on education, health, and youth development. The approach is intended to

broaden the reach of a traditional charity gala by bringing multiple youth-serving organizations under a shared philanthropic umbrella. The festivities begin January 19 at the new Julie & Mike Connors Boys & Girls Club at Dreher Park in West Palm Beach. A cocktail reception and community showcase, dubbed “Meet the Kids,” will introduce guests to the young people and programs at the center of the weekend’s mission. From there, the evening moves from land to sea.

Select guests will board eight yachts docked at the Town of Palm Beach Marina for a series of intimate vintner dinners pairing acclaimed winemakers with renowned chefs and elite sommeliers. Allied Marine, a Ferretti Group company, will complement the privately owned yachts with vessels from the Ferretti Group portfolio. Luxury tabletop brands will help set the stage for evenings that marry wine, cuisine, craftsmanship, and life on the water. The following night raises the stakes— and the paddles. On January 20, guests will gather at a private Palm Beach estate for a Michelin-starred dinner prepared by a worldrenowned chef and a live auction featuring 15 one-of-a-kind wine, culinary, and travel lots. Many will incorporate wines from some of the world’s most revered vineyards, with each experience presented through immersive installations designed to make the auction itself part of the evening’s theater. Lydia Fenet, CEO of the Lydia Fenet Agency and former Global Managing Director of Christie’s, will preside over the bidding. With more than two decades of experience spanning philanthropy, luxury, and fine art, Fenet will lead the live auction and a call for on-the-spot donations. PNC Private Bank will serve as the event’s Founding Corporate Partner and Auction Paddle Sponsor. A Founding Committee drawn from Palm Beach’s philanthropic and civic community is also guiding the initiative. Its first announced members include Thomas Peterffy, Dr. Herbie Wertheim, Charles Schumacher, Dr. Jeffrey Skoll, Sean Smith, and Scott Smith. “Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County is incredibly proud to spearhead this effort and to bring our community together in suppor t of exceptional organizations working together every day to give children the opportunity to thrive,” said Jaene Miranda, President

and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County. Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County currently serves more than 50,000 children and teens annually, with programming focused on academic success, healthy lifestyles, leadership development, and workforce readiness. After the event, the Palm Beach Children’s Fund will distribute net proceeds as grants to multiple youth-serving nonprofits and to strategic initiatives benefiting children in need throughout the county. In a destination where spectacular experiences are hardly in short supply,

the Palm Beach International Wine Experience is aiming for something more enduring. The yachts, rare vintages, celebrated cuisine, and extraordinary auction lots may provide the glamour, but the real measure of the weekend will come after the final glass is poured: using Palm Beach’s considerable capacity for generosity to create opportunities for the children who call the community home. If you wish to be added to the invitation list or inquire about sponsorship opportunities, contact Scott Siegfried at (704) 995-5491. sl slmag.net

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THE SIREN SONG OF CAPRI

At Pazziella, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Capri, timeless glamour, storied traditions, and the irresistible pleasures of la dolce vita reveal why this legendary Italian island continues to enchant. Written by Claire Williams Photos courtesy of Pazziella, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Capri

Lounge Bar image by Lutz Vorderwuelbecke

In Homer’s Greek Epic The Odyssey, the fabled hero Odysseus, while navigating the troubled waters of Poseidon, ties himself to the mast of his ship and instructs his crew to plug their ears with beeswax to avoid falling under the spell of the Sirens, whose sweet melodies lure sailors toward their demise. The mythical encounter has long been associated with the waters off southern Italy. While no Sirens sing their tantalizing tunes today, some 3,000 years later, Capri remains every bit as enchanting. For generations, Capri has been synonymous with luxury and indulgence, a place where, within roughly four square miles, visitors can rub shoulders with celebrities, shop both local artisans and international fashion houses, and savor the splendors of la dolce vita. Unlike its volcanic neighbors, Capri is a limestone outcropping once connected to the Sorrento Peninsula, giving the island its distinctive landscape of precipitous cliffs, lush greenery, brilliant blue seas, and rugged sea stacks. Just a short boat ride from mainland Italy, visitors arrive at Marina Grande, greeted by a kaleidoscope of pastel buildings climbing the hillside. From there, Capri’s iconic open-top convertible taxis whisk them upward toward the town center. La Piazzetta, Capri’s famous central square, is a beguiling fusion of Italian charm and modern extravagance, where centuries-old architecture mingles with contemporary luxuries. Tucked among the narrow lanes just beyond its bustle, boutique hotel Pazziella, a Luxur y Collection Hotel, Capri (pazziella.it) offers a serene counterpoint. slmag.net

Hotel entrance photo by Lutz Vorderwuelbecke

Passing through Pazziella’s white gates just off Via Fuorlovado, guests enter a lush sanctuary of greenery and lemon trees. At its heart, a generous patio and swimming pool sit secluded between the hotel’s two wings, seemingly worlds away from the lively streets just beyond. Pazziella’s story began in the early 20th century as a private family villa and gathering place before becoming a hotel in the 1950s. On the heels of a significant multiyear renovation that concluded in 2024, the property joined Marriott’s Luxury Collection in spring 2026. While thoroughly refreshed, the hotel retains the character of the original villa through preserved flooring and select pieces of handsome furniture. Its aesthetic is one of refined simplicity: clean lines, Mediterranean influences, local art, and a palette of crisp whites and blues, all bathed in abundant natural light. With just 25 rooms and suites, Pazziella possesses an alluring intimacy. Accommodations range from Deluxe Sea 62 slmag.net

View Rooms with private balconies to the aptly named La Dolce Vita Suite, complete with its own patio and plunge pool. Mornings begin with breakfast on the patio—I highly recommend the Caprese Eggs Benedict—and later in the day, the space transitions into P Garden Lounge Bar. The main culinary event, however, is Campanella, Pazziella’s signature restaurant. Here, straightfor ward preparations allow seasonal ingredients to shine, delivering the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean through fresh local seafood, handmade pasta, and other regional specialties. For those seeking deeper relaxation, one of the hotel’s more distinctive amenities is the opportunity to privatize its spa suite, enjoying the plunge pool and sauna before adding a massage to the experience. If your version of unwinding includes a workout, P Fit offers a fully equipped gym inside a panoramic glass studio with sweeping views.

Within Pazziella’s walls, guests can experience one of the region’s most famous creations: limoncello. The lemon liqueur has deep roots in this corner of southern Italy, where fragrant citrus has long flourished. During Pazziella’s Aperitivo Ritual, guests hand-press freshly picked lemons alongside the resident bartender to create their own limoncello spritz. The hotel has also introduced its Caprese Ravioli Cooking Class, an intimate cooking class in which guests make pasta alongside a local recipe guardian while learning the techniques and traditions she has perfected over a lifetime. Many of Pazziella’s staff are passionate locals, eager to make recommendations that venture beyond the typical Instagram itinerary. On our first night, they suggested sunset cocktails across the island at Punta Carena Lighthouse in Anacapri, a quieter community on Capri’s western side. Far removed from the bustle of Capri town, we sipped Aperol Spritzes alongside locals, watching the sun slip into the sea.

Capri Suite bedroom photo by Lutz Vorderwuelbecke

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The hotel’s garden and pool

Al fresco lunch at Campanella

On a brisk evening, while sipping that limoncello spritz, you may find a scarf draped over your shoulders courtesy of Farella (farella.it), whose storefront sits just in front of the hotel. Run by generations of women, Farella keeps Capri’s traditional hand-weaving techniques alive through its creations and workshops that invite visitors to try their hand at the loom. For the family, the work is about more than producing something beautiful; it is about preserving an island tradition, one thread at a time. Pazziella’s location places guests squarely within the pulse of Capri. Running parallel to Via Camerelle, the island’s premier shopping promenade, the hotel is mere steps from boutiques bearing names 64 slmag.net

such as Gucci and Louis Vuitton. Standing confidently among these international luxury houses, Emanuela Caruso (emanuelacaruso.com/us) offers another expression of Caprese craftsmanship. In less than an hour, a pair of handmade leather sandals are fashioned before your eyes, customized from understated leather straps to sparkling Swarovski embellishments. Capri may be celebrated for its glamorous façade, but its true character reveals itself through traditions such as these—and through the people committed to carrying them forward. “The value of Capri lies in the unity between nature and the work of man,” Italian art historian and critic Roberto

Pane wrote in his 1954 book, Capri. His observation still rings true. Amid the island’s dramatic landscape and ancient ruins, crafts once born of necessity evolved into distinct artisanal traditions. Over time, Capri became a haven for artists, writers and affluent travelers, each adding another layer to the island’s enduring mystique. Over millennia, Capri has passed through countless hands, from the Greeks and Romans to later invaders and rulers, while attracting generations of writers, artists, aristocrats and adventurers. Yet for all that has changed, the island’s essential allure remains remarkably intact. From ancient myth to modern-day travelers, people have struggled to resist Capri’s siren song. sl

SOPHISTICATED WEDDING

A Love Written in the Stars From a chance meeting in Lexington to a proposal on the Amalfi Coast, Stapleton Arnold and

Dylan Palmer celebrated their love with a wedding weekend steeped in family traditions, Kentucky hospitality, and a few unexpected surprises. Photos by Meagen Steward

When Dylan Palmer traded the beaches of Southern California for Lexington, Kentucky, in July 2021 to pursue a career in real estate investment management, he had no idea that his most significant investment would be one of the heart. On his first day managing properties at Chevy Chase Square, Dylan met Stapleton Arnold in the lobby of Pure Barre Lexington, the business owned by her mother, Amanda. Whether he asked Stapleton to dinner or merely requested restaurant recommendations remains a matter of playful disagreement. What neither disputes is that fate seemed determined to bring them together. Over the next six months, three seemingly coincidental encounters—

what the couple affectionately calls “God winks”—repeatedly crossed their paths. Eventually, Dylan secured a first date at Kenwick Table, followed by a University of Kentucky basketball game. Unbeknownst to Stapleton, he hadn't actually purchased the tickets until she agreed to go. Their courtship culminated in a romantic proposal on May 17, 2025, aboard a private boat off the coast of Positano, Italy. Dylan waited until the final hour of an eight-hour excursion to surprise Stapleton with a threestone engagement ring rich in symbolism. The outer stones represent Dylan and Stapleton, while the center symbolizes Christ as the foundation of their marriage. A hidden crown beneath the diamonds honors Dylan's

queen, while a golden thread represents the invisible connection that brought a California boy and Kentucky girl together. With more than half their wedding guests traveling from out of state, the couple envisioned a celebration showcasing everything they love about the Bluegrass. An October wedding during Keeneland's fall racing meet provided the perfect opportunity. Festivities began with a welcome party at Camel Club, where guests toasted the couple with Arnold Palmer Spritz cocktails. Following their Friday wedding, celebrations continued Saturday with brunch at The Manchester's Lost Palm Rooftop, an afternoon at Keeneland, and a University of Kentucky football game. slmag.net

For the ceremony, Good Shepherd Episcopal Church was an especially meaningful choice. Stapleton's parents married there, she was baptized there, and she attended its day school. More recently, the church became the couple's shared spiritual home. The Rev. G. Hendree Harrison Jr., who had guided them through premarital counseling, officiated. The reception unfolded at The Apiary Fine Catering & Events, where elegant interiors, intimate gathering spaces, and exceptional cuisine provided 66 slmag.net

an inviting setting for an evening that balanced sophistication with exuberant fun. Personal touches abounded. Their two cats appeared as miniature clay figurines on a three-flavor wedding cake by Chloe Gabbard of Cakes by Coco. Late-night Jell-O shots, a Stapleton party signature, received an upscale interpretation from The Apiary's kitchen. During ABBA's Dancing Queen, ballerinas from Kentucky Ballet Theatre surprised guests with light-up balloons and festive accessories—a particularly meaningful moment for

Stapleton, who danced with the company from childhood through her teenage years. Family history was equally prominent. Stapleton's wedding band incorporates the center diamond from her mother's original wedding ring, while the accompanying sapphires were transformed into earrings Dylan presented to her that morning. His traditional Irish Claddagh wedding band honored his late grandmother, Mary Bridget Palmer. An heirloom table displayed generations of family wedding photographs, alongside treasured gloves, purses, and veils.

Stapleton wore a one-of-a-kind gown by Renee's Bridal, while Jameson Douglas Clothing styled Dylan's wedding wardrobe. The couple's first dance to Jason Mraz's I'm Yours was choreographed by Stapleton's longtime ballet teacher, Rafaela Risco. Despite the elaborate festivities, their favorite memories were often the quietest: exchanging private vows during their first look, sharing a few minutes alone in a vintage Bentley, and enjoying a private dinner before returning to the reception.

Among the weekend's most poignant blessings was the presence of Stapleton's grandmother, Tita Arnold, who attended the welcome party and ceremony after suffering a severe stroke just over a month earlier. Another unforgettable moment came when both fathers joined the newlyweds for a live performance of Stand by Me. Throughout the planning process, the couple prioritized working with local creatives and longtime friends, including planner Heidi Crouse, florist Ha n n a h K n ow l e s o f C o s m o Fl o r a l

Design, photographer Meagen Steward, and stationery designer Amelia Weber of Mélange Stationery. In the end, the weekend was more than a celebration of two people finding one another. It was a tribute to the families who shaped them, the community that brought them together, and the faith that continues to guide their journey. For a love story that began with three little “God winks,” it seemed only fitting that so many meaningful moments would fall beautifully into place. sl slmag.net

Holiday Entertaining Using Antiques Tabletop fineries to help host memorable gatherings Written by Kim Hites, proprietor of Kim Hites Antiques

For the dining table:

Looking forward to being the “hostess with the mostess” this holiday season? Look no further than incorporating antiques to help make your tables, servers, and bar carts showstoppers that leave your guests feeling wowed! Use unique one-of-a-kind items or classic pieces with character and patina to elevate your events and set them apart from the crowd. The holidays are the perfect time to showcase your beautiful tabletop antiques while also highlighting their usefulness. Here are some of the most popular antiques and vintage items that are used for entertaining that will help make your celebrations memorable.

For the bar cart: Champagne buckets: This is by far the number one go-to that instantly adds panache to your serving vignette. Whether it's a gleaming English silver plate example 70 slmag.net

or a fun French aluminum bucket, these offer a quiet elegance. Silver water pitchers and lidded ice buckets: These are a must for serving cocktails, and they exude sophistication with their form and function. Crystal glasses: Cut or etched crystal adds a brilliant element for guests as they're sipping beverages from them. Handsome rocks glasses for spirits and coupes for champagne naturally make the party special. Cocktail napkins: Beautiful handembroidered antique or vintage linen or cotton cocktail napkins always make a statement. Look for matching sets that are more formal, or use mismatched napkins for a more fun, boho party! Accoutrements: Guests will notice the small accessories that make an impact. Items such as cocktail stirrers, ice tongs, jiggers, and wine stoppers are the details that matter.

Embroidered linens: These can be tablecloths, dinner napkins, runners, toppers, or placemats. You can be minimal, or you can layer multiple items. Beautiful linens provide a perfect base for all your other pieces. A centerpiece: This is the star of the table! An antique epergne is a pretty visual with florals and candles added. A large crystal vase filled with flowers is also lovely and traditional. Candlesticks: Beautiful candlesticks in pairs or in multiples offer an elegant dining experience with their soft glow when the candles are lit. Antique English brass sticks, wood barley twist sticks, or silver plate candlesticks are all great choices. Serving pieces: Coordinate pieces with your dinnerware to add interesting options for serving. The top choices in antique options include silver plate trays, white ironstone, transferware platters, and hotel silver accessories. Stemware: Beautiful crystal stemware rounds out a sophisticated dining table and is the jewelry of the evening. Many antiques and vintage sets are available in cut crystal or etched glass, offering a glimmering sparkle to the occasion. sl

The unmistakable beauty of designs made by hand.

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(502) 443-9962

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LALIQUE

GATHERED:

From dragonflies and delicate ferns to flowers frozen in glass, Jon Carloftis argues that the extraordinary world of Lalique proves that Mother Nature has always been the greatest designer of all. Written and photographed by Jon Carloftis

There’s an old saying that Mother Nature is the best designer, and I’ve spent most of my life trying to prove it. Give me a perfectly shaped leaf, a fern unfurling in the spring sunshine, or a dragonfly hovering over a garden pond, and I’ll show you something no amount of money can improve upon. René Lalique figured that out more than a century ago, and goodness gracious, did he ever make something beautiful out of it! Now, anybody who knows me knows I love beautiful things, especially when they have a story behind them. I’m just as happy poking around an old antique shop as I am wandering through a grand Bluegrass garden. Every once in a while, you come across something that makes you stop dead in your tracks. That’s how I feel about Lalique crystal. It’s elegant without being stuffy, glamorous without being gaudy, and so inspired by the natural world that I swear some of these pieces look like they could have sprouted right out of the ground. The story begins in France with René Lalique, born in 1860, who grew up to become one of the most celebrated designers of the Art Nouveau and Art Deco movements. He started out making jewelry in Paris during the late 1800s, back when the fashionable thing was to pile on diamonds and precious gemstones until you practically needed somebody to help hold up your neck. But René had other ideas. Instead of concentrating on how many expensive stones he could squeeze into a necklace, he looked to the world around him. Flowers, birds, butterflies, snakes, dragonflies, and all sorts of wonderful

creatures became the stars of his creations. He mixed gold and gemstones with materials that traditional jewelers might have turned their noses up at, including glass, enamel, horn, and mother-of-pearl. And wouldn't you know it? The results were spectacular. His jewelry attracted some of the most fashionable people in Europe, including the legendary French actress, Sarah Bernhardt. Can you imagine the excitement of seeing one of his extraordinary creations on a woman who was already larger than life? These weren't just pieces of jewelry. They were miniature works of art, full of movement, imagination, and personality. What I particularly admire is that Lalique wasn't trying to improve upon nature. He was paying attention to it. There's a mighty big difference. Think about a fern, for instance. Most people walk right past one without giving it a second thought. But stop and really look at the way those fronds curl as they open, each little leaflet unfolding in perfect order. It's a masterpiece of design, and it doesn't need a single diamond to make it more beautiful. By the turn of the 20th century, René had become fascinated with glass, a material that allowed him to capture the delicacy of nature in an entirely different way. His collaboration with French perfumer François Coty helped change the perfume business forever. Before Lalique came along, perfume bottles were largely just containers. He turned them into objects of desire. And really, why shouldn't something smell wonderful and look wonderful, too? slmag.net

He created bottles adorned with flowers, graceful figures, and intricate patterns that made the packaging almost as enticing as the perfume inside. It was a brilliant idea, and one that luxury brands are still following today. But René wasn't content to stop at perfume bottles. By the 1920s and 1930s, his imagination had gone into overdrive. He was designing vases, bowls, chandeliers, decorative panels, fountains, and even magnificent glass ornaments for the hoods of luxury automobiles. His talents were also called upon for some of the grandest interiors of the day, including the legendary ocean liner SS Normandie and luxurious railway cars. This was the golden age of Art Deco, when elegance wasn't confined to the drawing room. It extended to practically everything, from the light fixtures overhead to the decorative details on a train. Yet through all this grandeur, Lalique kept coming back to the garden. One of his most famous creations, the Bacchantes vase, introduced in 1927, features a circle of sculpted female figures. Another, the Tourbillons vase, takes its inspiration from the swirling movement of unfurling fern fronds. It's the sort of piece that makes me want to head straight outside and examine every fern in my garden. That’s the beauty of great design: it makes you see familiar things in a whole new light. And, speaking of light, that's where Lalique really works its magic. 74 slmag.net

Unlike ordinary clear glass, which often relies on sparkle alone, Lalique crystal combines polished surfaces with areas that have been frosted or given a soft satin finish. The contrast creates extraordinary depth and dimension. Light passes through the clear portions while the frosted details seem to glow from within. It's almost like looking at a flower early in the morning, when the sun is just beginning to filter through the petals, and every little vein suddenly becomes visible. As a garden designer, I find that fascinating because light is one of the most important tools we have. You can plant the most beautiful garden in the world, but if you don't consider how the sun moves through it, you're missing half the show. The same principle applies to Lalique. A piece can look entirely different in the morning than it does in the late afternoon, and when candlelight enters the picture, well, honey, you've got yourself something special. After René died in 1945, his son Marc took over the family business and made a significant change, shifting production from glass to lead crystal. That decision helped establish the luminous, substantial material that most people associate with Lalique today. The company's crystal is still made in Wingen-sur-Moder, a village in France's Alsace region, where René established his factory in the early 20th century. And here's something I especially appreciate: despite all our modern technology, creating these extraordinary objects still requires an enormous amount of skilled handwork.

Molten crystal is shaped into beautiful forms, but that's only the beginning. Craftspeople spend countless hours cutting, engraving, polishing, and satin-finishing the pieces. Some of the most elaborate creations require a technique called lost-wax casting, an ancient process in which a wax model is used to form a mold that is destroyed after casting. Now, I don't know about you, but in a world where just about everything seems to be rolling off an assembly line, I find that kind of craftsmanship downright refreshing. There is something deeply satisfying about knowing that a beautiful object has passed through the hands of someone who has spent years, perhaps decades, perfecting a skill. It's not so different from the stone masons, ironworkers, and master gardeners I've been fortunate enough to work with over the years. You simply cannot replace that kind of knowledge with a machine. And while antique Lalique pieces can command considerable attention from collectors, the company is very much alive and well. Today, its creations include everything from decorative crystal and jewelry to fragrances, lighting, furniture, and architectural elements. What I love most is that the inspiration hasn't strayed very far from where it began. More than a century later, you'll still find leaves, flowers, birds, and other natural forms woven into the designs. That's a pretty remarkable legacy when you think about it. I'm often asked what makes a garden timeless. My answer is that you must start with the things that never go out of style.

Good proportions. Beautiful materials. A little surprise around the corner. And, most importantly, an appreciation for what nature already does so well. The same goes for decorating a home. I have always believed that the most interesting rooms are collected over time rather than purchased all at once. A wonderful antique table, a favorite piece of pottery, fresh flowers cut from the garden, and perhaps a Lalique vase catching the afternoon light. None of those things needs to shout for attention. Together, they tell a story. And please, whatever you do, don't think something as beautiful as Lalique crystal has to be tucked away in a glass cabinet, never to be touched. I firmly believe that beautiful things are meant to be enjoyed. Put that vase on a table where the sunlight can find it. Fill it with flowers if the design allows. Let it become part of your everyday life. Because what's the point of having something beautiful if you never get to appreciate it? The next time you're out in the garden, take a few minutes to really look around. Study the shape of a fern, watch a dragonfly dart across the water, or hold a leaf up to the sunlight. You might be surprised by what you discover. And if, like me, you happen to have a piece of Lalique sitting on your mantel, take another look at that, too, because sometimes the most sophisticated things in life are simply Mother Nature's handiwork, dressed up for a night on the town. And Lord knows, she's always had impeccable taste. sl slmag.net

The Lexington Edit

What we’re wearing, wanting, and loving now. 4

13 1) Luvente diamond hoop earrings ($12,295) at Rivard Fine Jewelry (rivardfinejewelry.com) 2) Frédérique Constant Ladies Automatic Double Heart Beat watch ($2,995) at Schiffman’s Jewelers (schiffmans.com) 3) Catherine Regehr T-neck gown ($3,108) at Carl Meyers (carlmeyers.com) 4) Arteriors Carlton cabinet ($7,490) at Norwalk Furniture (norwalklexington.com) 5) William Yeoward Bella Blue cocktail mixer and spoon ($312) at L.V. Harkness (lvharkness. com) 6) Jane Win LOVE pendant coin ($328) at AJ’s Casuals (ajsclothinglexington.com) 7) Lalique Cactus Perfume Bottle, No.2 at L.V. Harkness (lvharkness. com) 8) Peserico micro-sequin herringbone wool coat ($2,088) at Carl Meyers (carlmeyers.com) 9) Rebecca Gardner Smudged Faces & Kid Gloves box ($98; housesandparties.com) 10) Libeco Home Nell pillow cover ($170) at Frances M (shopfrancesmreviews.com) 11) Staud Porcupine clutch ($495) at AJ’s Boutique (ajsclothinglexington.com) 12) Mon Coeur x Eden Rock onepiece ($61; boutique.oetkerhotels.com) 13) Lauren Dunn acrylic nativity set ($142) at Peggy’s Gifts & Accessories (peggysgifts.com) 14) Passalacqua x La DoubleJ ceramic trinket tray ($221; senseoflake.com) 15) Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc collector’s edition Monopoly ($323; edenrocrivieracollection.com) 16) HELSA Voluminous Blouse ($328) and 1950s jean ($358; fwrd.com) 17) 2026 Porsche 911 Turbo S (from $270,300) at Porsche of Louisville (louisville.porsche.com) 18) Cult Gaia SS27 (cultgaia.com). Photo by GoRunway 19) Fiabesca knee high leather and nylon back boots ($381; fiabesca.company.site) 20) Pomegranate Holly & Pinecones dinner and salad plates (from $108/2; pomegranateinc. com) 21) Le Bristol Paris pajama shirt ($176) and cap ($88; boutique.oetkerhotels.com)

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A SEAT AT OUITA’S TABLE From cherished family recipes to the art of making guests feel at home, celebrated Kentucky chef Ouita Michel shares the traditions and philosophy that make holiday gatherings meaningful.

Written by Bridget Cottrell Photography by Talitha Schroeder; Portrait of Ouita Michel by Slade Howard Few people have guided the way Kentuckians think about food more than Ouita Michel, whose restaurants have elevated the Commonwealth’s agricultural heritage from a supporting role to the star of the show. Yet, despite her professional accolades, some of her most meaningful culinary memories have been made far from the spotlight, surrounded by family, friends, and the familiar flavors of holiday meals prepared much the same way for generations. Ouita’s culinary beginnings hearken back to a childhood surrounded by art, literature, and made-from-scratch meals. Her late mother, Pam Sexton, an artist and poet, frequently welcomed creative friends 80 slmag.net

into their home, thereby instilling in Ouita an appreciation for wholesome ingredients and the pleasures of breaking bread. She studied political science at the University of Kentucky, where, as a member of the debate team, she won the prestigious title of 1986 National Debate Tournament champion alongside her debate partner David Brownell. It’s a skill that undoubtedly contributes to her elegant elocution as the mouthpiece for the Commonwealth’s gastronomic legacy. After graduating from UK, Ouita headed to New York and enrolled at the Culinary Institute of America, where she met her future husband and business partner, Chris, on the first day of classes (they had recently

marked their 33rd anniversary at the time of this interview). Her exposure to French and Italian culinary traditions introduced her to the importance of regional agriculture, though it took time to recognize the extraordinary resources in her own backyard. Quick to give credit where credit is due, Ouita said her years working alongside eating local pioneer Debbie Long at Dudley’s in the early 1990s accelerated her coming to value the richness of Kentucky’s agricultural landscape. “There can be no Kentucky cuisine without the Kentucky farmer,” Ouita proclaims. That conviction became the foundation of Holly Hill Inn, the historic Midway restaurant that launched a comestible enterprise encompassing Wallace Station, Windy Corner Market, Smithtown Seafood, Penny’s at Pomegranate, and Midway Bakery and Cafe. For Ouita, the relationship between food and place is far more than a fashionable and fleeting philosophy. “Local food became a trend and all trends come and go,” she says. “But really reflecting your home and being a part of your agriculture, that’s not a trend. That’s a building block.” That same reverence for place and tradition extends to the way Ouita entertains at home, where safeguarding the flavors of her childhood takes precedence over culinary experimentation. For more than two decades, Thanksgiving has been a family affair at Holly Hill Inn, which closes to the public for the holiday. The custom began when Michel’s daughter, Willa, was just a few months old. Rather than spending the day shuttling between relatives’ homes, Michel realized she had the perfect solution: bring everyone together in one place, where lively mixed media pieces by her father Ray Papka, a retired professor and scientist, adorn the walls in nearly every room. Ouita’s Thanksgiving menu has changed remarkably little over the years by design. At the heart of the meal is a desire to preserve her mother’s culinary legacy. “I want my family to remember what her food tasted like,” Ouita explains.

The preparation is as much a part of the celebration as the meal itself. Children begin helping in the kitchen around age five, starting with kid-friendly tasks such as stuffing mushrooms, spooning filling into deviled eggs (which she says can produce some “comical” presentations), rolling dough, and making miniature sugar pies in little pie pans. As their abilities and assurance grow, so do their responsibilities. Willa and other younger family members have graduated to preparing gravy, dressing, and pumpkin pie, while Ouita continues to claim the turkey as her domain. Welcoming kids into the kitchen is both practical and sentimental. Rather than just simply observing family traditions, the next generation is given hands-on ownership to carry them forward, one dish at a time. Giving everyone a role transforms the preparation of a holiday feast into an occasion for togetherness. Ouita absolutely beams with pride when speaking of her nephew Wyatt, who started washing dishes at Holly Hill and is gradually working his way up the ladder of responsibilities in the

kitchen. “It fills me with tremendous joy to look across the kitchen and see him there,” she said with a smile. While Thanksgiving warrants china and silver, Ouita is considerably less concerned with formality at other gatherings. In fact, she believes one of the greatest obstacles to genuine hospitality is the pressure hosts place on themselves to create a restaurant-worthy experience at home. “We’ve gotten so used to entertaining in restaurants that we feel like our homes have to be like a restaurant,” she observes. Her advice is refreshingly uncomplicated: Stop worrying so much about appearances. “You don’t have to have a big fancy thing,” she says. “It’s really about connection and having fun together.” Ouita points to a burgoo gathering last winter at Holly Hill Inn as an example of hospitality at its most authentic. Approximately 50 or 60 people came together around five fires to prepare some 25 gallons of the hearty Kentucky stew. The cooking stretched throughout the day, accompanied by bourbon, music, singing, and spontaneous performances.

Gu e s t s l i n g e re d a r o u n d t h e f i re s , spinning yarns and taking turns tending the pots before enjoying the fruits of their collective labor. She said that the gathering was memorable not because of an elaborate presentation or perfectly orchestrated service, but because everyone participated. The cooking itself became the entertainment, and the experience mattered every bit as much as the meal. This laid-back philosophy offers a welcome antidote to the pressure of holiday entertaining, when social media can make even the most enthusiastic host feel inadequate. Ouita knows better than most that a flawless meal is neither guaranteed nor necessary for a successful gathering. “You have to accept that things sometimes go horribly wrong, move on, and build your confidence from it.” If a battle-tested chef can survive a disastrous dinner service (and Ouita said there have been a few in her nearly four-decade career), surely the rest of us can forgive ourselves for overcooked vegetables, a forgotten side dish, or a pie that doesn’t quite resemble the photograph. slmag.net

Ouita serving burgoo to songwriter Bee Taylor

Amid all the culinary wizardry involved in running celebrated restaurants, one of Ouita’s most cherished Christmas traditions revolves around something decidedly uncomplicated: sugar cookies. After her daughter Willa was born, she began setting aside an afternoon each December at Holly Hill Inn to make batches of her family’s aptly named “Damn Good Sugar Cookies”. She rolled out the dough and cut it into angels, snowmen, stars, and Christmas trees, which Willa and her friends transformed into edible works of art amid a happy commotion of conversation, laughter, and music. Ouita traces the recipes for both the “Damn Good Sugar Cookies” and icebox cookies back approximately nine generations, linking today’s holiday baking to ancestors whose names and kitchens remain part of the family’s collective history. The icebox cookies are now available to enjoy year-round and from coast-to-coast through the Goldbelly website. There is something wonderfully re f re s h i n g a b o u t a c h e f c a p a b l e o f orchestrating elaborate restaurant meals finding such joy in a humble sugar cookie. The handwritten card is more than a set of instructions; it’s a concrete connection to the women who came before her, their kitchens, and the generations who gathered to enjoy the results. And while the cookies are undoubtedly delicious, the sweetest part of the tradition may be the afternoon spent making them. Ouita’s understanding of hospitality extends well beyond the pleasures of entertaining family and friends. She believes that somewhere along the way, society commenced confusing hospitality with an expensive experience rather than treating it as a fundamental human value. “We’ve made it into an industry rather than a value system,” she says. To Michel, genuine 82 slmag.net

hospitality isn’t determined by the price of a meal, the elegance of the surroundings, or the social standing of the guest. “Hospitality is something that is simply creating a sense of welcome for people who are in your midst.” It’s a conviction reflected in her longstanding involvement with Lexington’s FoodChain, where she serves as an emeritus director. The nonprofit works to strengthen the local food system while making fresh, nutritious meals accessible to people who could otherwise go without. Ouita is notably enthusiastic about FoodChain’s efforts to remove the stigma often associated with receiving assistance. Meals are adjusted to individual dietary needs and packaged in ordinary restaurant-style containers rather than anything that identifies the recipient as someone receiving charity. At the organization’s nonprofit grocery store, customers aren’t required to demonstrate

financial hardship to be treated with generosity and respect. “You don’t have to prove that you really need this,” she says. “You can have it.” The same philosophy guides the organization’s Feast fundraiser, where invited FoodChain guests participate alongside ticket holders without distinction. The goal is to create an atmosphere in which everyone feels equally welcome, an approach Ouita believes should be fundamental to hospitality in any setting. Over the course of Ouita’s career, Kentucky’s gastronomic scene has undergone a notable transformation. Ingredients and dishes once considered ordinary have found new regard among chefs and diners, while the farmers responsible for producing them have earned greater recognition. Michel has been both a driver of that evolution and an unwavering advocate for preserving the

Damn Good Sugar Cookies

As written by Ouita Peyton, Ouita Michel’s maternal grandmother and namesake and mom Pam Sexton

traditions that give the region’s cuisine its character. “I want to make sure that there are parts of it that stay recognizable as uniquely Kentucky,” she says. But perhaps her most enduring contribution remains the way she has encouraged people to think about the connections created through food. Whether gathering her extended family around the Thanksgiving table, teaching children to prepare recipes conveyed through generations, sharing burgoo around an open fire, or helping ensure a neighbor has access to a nourishing meal, Ouita returns to the same essential principle: “The most important thing is getting your family together,” she says, adding that definition includes the friends who arrive with a dish to share, the neighbors who pull up an extra chair, and the people who become part of our lives through the simple act of breaking bread together.

For the dough:

For the icing:

Ingredients

1 cup softened butter 2 cups granulated sugar 4 eggs, beating in between each egg ½ cup sour cream 1 teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon baking soda A pinch (¼ tsp.) of salt A dash of vanilla- about a scant 1 tsp. Roughly 4 cups of all-purpose flour

2-pound bag of powdered sugar 1 cup butter 1 cup sour cream 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla

Directions

• Cream together butter & sugar. • Add egg, sour cream, baking powder, baking soda, salt and vanilla. • Add enough flour to make a soft dough, start with about 4 cups flour. May need a bit more. • Chill for at least one hour. • Roll, cut into shapes and bake at 375 degrees until very lightly browned.

Directions

• Melt the butter and transfer to a mixing bowl. • Beat in the powdered sugar. • Add the sour cream and vanilla, then beat at high speed until creamy and fluffy. • Divide into bowls and color with food coloring.

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Nashville’s celebrated Antiques & Garden Show returns for its 37th year, celebrating collected interiors, enduring style, and the stories that make a house a home. Photos by Jessica Amerson and Peyton Hoge, courtesy of the Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville In an era when trends can disappear as quickly as they arrive, there is something particularly appealing about a home assembled slowly and thoughtfully; one that’s layered with objects acquired over time, inherited treasures, well-loved furnishings, and pieces whose beauty is enhanced by the stories they carry. That philosophy takes center stage at the 37th annual Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville, returning to Music City Center January 8–10, 2027. Appropriately themed “Timeless: Living a Collected Life,” this year’s Show celebrates the art of creating spaces that transcend trends for something far more personal. Since its founding in 1990, the Antiques & Garden Show has grown into one of Nashville’s most anticipated annual events, drawing more than 17,000 attendees and bringing together over 150 exhibitors specializing in antiques, fine art, and horticulture. Immersive garden installations, lectures and special events round out the weekend, with proceeds benefiting Cheekwood Estate & Gardens and Economic Club of Nashville (ECON) Charities. To date, the volunteerled event has raised more than $13 million for its beneficiaries. Co-chairs Allison Schaufele and Lynn Brown, longtime friends united by a shared enthusiasm for design, philanthropy, and their community, are at the helm of the 2027 Show. A Nashville native and longtime Show volunteer, Schaufele brings experience in luxury hospitality and nonprofit fundraising. Brown has also served the organization in several roles, including four years as floral chair. Together, they are charged with honoring the traditions that have made the Show a Nashville institution while ushering it into its next chapter. This year’s theme will come to life throughout Music City Center, where Schumacher will guide the Show’s visual identity alongside Exclusive Paint Sponsor Benjamin Moore and a team of designers, landscape architects and volunteers. Three immersive garden showcases will let visitors step into imaginative landscapes, showing that collecting extends beyond interiors to the gardens and outdoor spaces that surround them. The weekend’s lecture series brings an equally impressive collection of creative talent to Nashville. Friday begins with a keynote from Cordelia de Castellane, artistic director of DIOR Maison and Baby DIOR, whose work bridges fashion, interiors and the French art of living. That afternoon, Mieke ten Have, Aldous Bertram,

and Schuyler Samperton join for a design panel moderated by John Bossard, offering distinct perspectives on creating interiors rich in personality and provenance. Flowers take center stage Saturday morning when master floral designer Ariella Chezar joins watercolor artist and illustrator Matthew Rice for a conversation moderated by author and tastemaker Frances Schultz. Later that afternoon, the focus widens to the art of living well with a lifestyle panel featuring 2027 Honorary Co-Chairs Bunny Williams and Elizabeth Lawrence, moderated by House & Garden UK contributing editor Anne Hardy. The creative roster extends well beyond the lecture stage. Amanda Khouri of Amanda Khouri Interiors will serve as the 2027 Stage Designer, while Nashville-based Kate Figler of Kate Figler Interiors will create the entrance experience and set the tone for the weekend from the moment guests arrive. The Show’s social calendar also promises plenty of reasons to linger. Sid and Ann Mashburn will serve as Honorary Chairs of the Preview Party, while Southern Living Editor-in-Chief Sid Evans and Senior Lifestyle Editor Ivy Odom will serve as Honorary Co-Chairs of the Bourbon Party. Beyond Music City Center, one of Nashville’s grand dames will join the celebration. The Hermitage Hotel returns as the Show’s Presenting Hotel, extending the “Timeless” theme into its historic surroundings. During Show weekend, guests can enjoy specially crafted cocktails in the Grand Lobby, along with a “Timeless Tea,” a fitting nod to the hotel’s designation as a National Historic Landmark and its enduring role as one of the city’s most storied gathering places. A collected home rarely comes from a single shopping trip or a single moment. It evolves. An antique discovered while traveling finds its place beside something inherited from a grandparent; contemporary art mingles with weathered wood and old silver; a garden matures season after season. Each element may be beautiful on its own. Together, they tell a story. For three days in January, the Antiques & Garden Show of Nashville will celebrate precisely that kind of storytelling, offering inspiration for anyone who believes the most compelling homes aren't simply decorated—they're collected. sl For tickets and additional information, visit antiquesandgardenshow.com.

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SOPHISTICATED SOCIETY

November 5 7 7 7 7 15 20-21 20-21 21 28

LexArts Arty Party Aged Two Perfection, 5pm,West Sixth Brewing Barrel Room; lexarts.org Iroquois Hunt Blessing of the Hounds, 11:00am; 2439 Grimes Mill Road; iroquoishunt.com LexArts Arty Party The Gilded Age, 6pm,The Home of Nikki Paley & Jill Bakehorn; lexarts.org 5th Annual Honors Gala, 7pm, Pam Miller Downtown Arts Center; kfbwfinc.wixsite.com/2024 Shriner’s Children’s Lexington Centennial Celebration Gala, 5pm,The Manchester Hotel; shrinerschildrens.org/en/news-and-media/events/2026/11/centennial-celebration-gala EmpowHER Brunch Gala, 11am, Harper Hall; givebutter.com/empowher-brunch-gala-2026 Schiffman’s Jewelers Holiday Diamond Event; schiffmans.com/pages/events Holiday Diamond Event at Schiffman’s Jewelers Fritz Farm; schiffmans.com/pages/events LexArts Arty Party Violin & Vino, 6pm 177 N. Upper St.; lexarts.org Blessing of the Hounds, 9am, Shaker Village; hakervillageky.org/events/blessing-of-the-hounds-2026

December 1 4 4 5 5-6 11 11 15

Bluegrass Gives; bggives.org Junior League of Lexington Holly Day Eve Preview Party, 5pm, Alltech Arena; exington.jl.org/annual-events/experience-the-holly-day-market/ The Nutcraker…A Ballet Deconstructed, 7pm, 21c Museum Hotel Lexington; Schiffman’s Jewelers David Yurman Shopping Experience; schiffmans.com/pages/events Holly Day Market; lexington.jl.org/annual-events/experience-the-holly-day-market/ The Nest’s Reindeer Express, 9am-4pm; thenestlexington.org/event/reindeer-express-2026 Medicinal Whisky Charity Winter Gala, 6pm, Carrick House; medicinalwhiskeycharity.org Schiffman’s Jewelers Lagos Holiday Event; schiffmans.com/pages/events

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

Keeneland Eve Friends of Bluegrass Land Conservancy celebrated the 2nd Annual Keeneland Eve with an evening of camaraderie and philanthropy at the Camel Club in Lexington. Bringing together supporters united by a passion for preserving the Bluegrass region’s treasured landscapes, the event raised more than $13,000 to benefit Bluegrass Land Conservancy and its mission to protect the places that make Central Kentucky so special. The evening’s success was made possible by the Camel Club, which donated its space; an enthusiastic community of donors who contributed to the silent auction; and Stewardship Sponsor Sturgill, Turner, Barker & Moloney, PLLC. Together, their support underscored a shared commitment to safeguarding the region’s natural beauty and rural heritage for generations to come. sl

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The Secretariat Center’s annual “Brunch & Bubbles” fundraising gala drew a stylish crowd to Fasig-Tipton in Lexington on Sunday, October 11, 2026, for a morning of celebration in support of the Center’s mission to retrain and rehome Thoroughbred racehorses for second careers. Guests sipped champagne and mimosas, savored a thoughtfully prepared brunch, and mingled in the historic Bluegrass setting that has long been synonymous with the sport’s most celebrated sales. Beyond the elegance of the occasion, the gathering carried a meaningful purpose, uniting horse lovers, supporters, and community members around the retired racehorses whose next chapters the Center helps write. sl

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Photos by Daniel Roberts

Brunch & Bubbles

Ferrick Mason celebrated the launch of its 2026–27 collection with a cocktail reception on October 8 at its new showroom in Versailles. The evening brought together design enthusiasts, industry professionals, and friends of the brand for an introduction to the latest offerings from the luxury textile and wallpaper company. Guests had the opportunity to explore the new showroom and discover Ferrick Mason's distinctive approach to pattern, color, and texture, which has made the Kentucky-based design house a favorite among interior designers seeking sophisticated, artfully inspired fabrics and wallcoverings. sl

Make-A-Wish Luncheon Keeneland's Fall Meet provided a memorable setting for the 19th annual Make-A-Wish Day on October 8, bringing together young wish recipients, their families, and members of Kentucky's Thoroughbred community. Among the special guests was Linda Pauling, whose son, Chris Greicius, inspired the founding of Make-A-Wish in 1980. Families enjoyed VIP experiences, including meeting jockeys and presenting trophies in the winner's circle. The celebration also recognized the remarkable bond between Cody's Wish and his namesake, Cody Dorman, whose friendship with the champion racehorse captivated the racing world. The event reflected Keeneland's longstanding commitment to philanthropy and the generosity of an industry united in making extraordinary experiences possible for children facing critical illnesses. sl

LAASHOF Gala On September 19, 2026, the Lexington African American Sports Hall of Fame transformed the Central Bank Center into an exciting stage for its fifth annual Induction Ceremony and Gala. The black-tie event honored the athletes, coaches, officials, teams, and community supporters whose achievements have etched their names into Lexington’s sporting legacy. The night buzzed with a celebratory spirit as honorees, families, and supporters gathered to herald not only athletic achievements and perseverance but also the lasting influence of African American sports figures on the Bluegrass community. Nearly 20 new inductees, including Robert “Nimbo” Hammons, Jaron Brown, and Dougie Allen, were recognized. Beyond spotlighting individual triumphs, the gala underscored the Hall of Fame’s mission to safeguard Lexington’s history and motivate future generations to chase greatness both on and off the field. sl 92 slmag.net

Photos by Daniel Roberts

Launch Party

Photos by Daniel Roberts

Keeneland Fall Meet Keeneland's 2026 Fall Meet brought the excitement and pageantry of Thoroughbred racing back to Lexington, welcoming racing enthusiasts, equestrians, and visitors from across the country to one of the Bluegrass region's most beloved autumn traditions. Opening October 2 and continuing through October 24, the 17-day meet featured world-class competition, prestigious stakes races, and the unmistakable atmosphere of a Keeneland afternoon, where impeccably dressed racegoers mingled against a backdrop of changing leaves and the picturesque Kentucky countryside. The 2026 meet held special significance as Keeneland celebrated its 90th anniversary, with a racing program featuring 22 stakes worth $10.7 million, including eight Breeders' Cup qualifying races. Opening Fall Stars Weekend delivered memorable performances, including Rhetorical's victory in the $1.25 million Coolmore Turf Mile and Fully Subscribed's win in the Juddmonte Spinster Stakes. Beyond the racetrack, special events, charitable initiatives, and festive gatherings reinforced Keeneland's enduring place at the heart of Lexington's social calendar. sl

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EVERY STITCH TELLS A STORY A quilt feels inherently intimate. Unlike a painting or sculpture, created primarily to be admired from a distance, a quilt invites touch. We wrap ourselves in it, pull it close on a cold evening, or pass it from one generation to the next. Its fabric may have once been a favorite dress, a child’s outgrown shirt, or a remnant carefully saved for a purpose not yet imagined. Every piece has a past, and every stitch can preserve a memory. But quilts are also works of extraordinary artistic expression, capable of communicating ideas that transcend their humble, utilitarian origins. This intersection of artistry and storytelling is at the heart of Storied Quilts: The Art of Quilts and the Stories They Tell, on view through December 6 at Lexington’s Headley-Whitney Museum of Art. Bringing together more than 70 quilts from private collections, cultural institutions, and celebrated artists, the exhibition makes 94 slmag.net

a compelling case for recognizing quilt making not simply as a traditional craft, but as an important, continually evolving art form. Curated by the museum’s executive director, Christina Bell, the exhibition includes works from the Phyllis George Brown Collection, the Linda and Jerry Bruckheimer Collection, the National Quilt Museum, the Kentucky Historical Society, and several other distinguished institutions. These contributions underscore the exhibition’s central premise: quilts are as varied as the people who make them, and their stories are often inseparable from the cultural circumstances in which they were created. Among the exhibition’s most compelling works are 14 quilts from Legacy in Motion, a series by Kentucky native and self-taught artist Dr. Eugene Poole Jr. honoring the Black jockeys who once dominated America’s most celebrated horse race. Black jockeys

won 15 of the first 28 Kentucky Derbies, including the inaugural running in 1875, when Oliver Lewis rode Aristides to victory. Yet, despite their formative contributions to Thoroughbred racing, these athletes were gradually pushed out of the sport as racial discrimination took hold. Another significant component is Women’s Work, a series by the late Kentucky artist Rebekka Seigel. Its title invites reconsideration of a phrase historically used to distinguish domestic labor from men's supposedly more consequential pursuits. For generations, quilting gave women a creative outlet when opportunities for formal artistic recognition were limited. The exhibition also includes works by the celebrated quilters of Gee’s Bend, Alabama, whose improvisational compositions and bold geometric arrangements have earned

international acclaim, alongside pieces by Caryl Bryer FallertGentry and Kentucky artists Minnie Adkins, Alma Lesch and Arturo Alonzo Sandoval. Ultimately, Storied Quilts is about more than preserving a traditional American art form. It recognizes the human impulse to create, communicate, and leave something meaningful behind. In an age increasingly defined by speed, disposability, and mass production, their painstaking construction feels particularly poignant. Every seam represents time. Every carefully selected piece of fabric reflects a decision. And every finished quilt carries the unmistakable imprint of its maker. Storied Quilts is on view through December 6, 2026, at the Headley-Whitney Museum of Art, 4435 Old Frankfort Pike, Lexington. Visit headley-whitney.org for details. sl slmag.net

The Keeneland Bluegrass International Cup celebrated its 20th anniversary on September 11, 2026, bringing together Lexington's equestrian enthusiasts, philanthropists, and community leaders for an evening of world-class polo and elegant entertainment at historic Mt. Brilliant Farm. Set against the rolling hills of the Bluegrass, the event featured a thrilling high-goal polo match, exceptional cuisine, live music, and dancing. Presented by Keeneland and held just ahead of its prestigious September Yearling Sale, the annual gathering has become a highlight of Lexington's fall social calendar. Beyond the excitement on the field, the occasion supported two important causes: the Fayette Alliance Foundation's efforts to preserve the region's distinctive landscape through sustainable growth and the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center's commitment to advancing cancer research. sl

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Photos by The Malicotes

The Sport of Kings in the Bluegrass

Last Call Shannon Latham

Illustration by Katie Morrison

Serial entrepreneur Shannon Latham has channeled her boundless creativity and unabashedly maximalist sensibilities into building three children's clothing brands—Little English, Bisby, and 3 Martha’s—while creating a life rich in family, friendships, horses, and adventure. In this month’s “Last Call” feature, the devotee of first-class travel, beautiful wallpaper, and antiques with a story to tell readily admits that restraint is overrated and slowing down doesn't come naturally. Read on to discover what else makes her tick. If you could live anywhere else, where would it be? I'd be torn between the

First-class travel, beautiful wallpaper, and antiques Which words or phrases

wild beauty of Kenya and the colorful chaos of Tangier, Morocco. Kenya for

do you most overuse? "Fabulous!" and “Love it!” Which talent would you

the animals and romance of safari life. Tangier for the sea, incredible food,

most like to have? To speak several languages fluently. It would help me feel

markets, and textiles. I love places that are a little untamed, rich

closer to the cultures of the countries where I travel. What

in history, and full of character. If you could have

is the one thing you'd recalibrate about yourself ? I'd

a secret second life or career, what would it be?

learn to slow down and savor the moment. I'm a serial

I'd run a safari lodge in Kenya or an antique

entrepreneur, always dreaming up the next idea or

and textile shop in Tangier. I'd be surrounded

adventure. What achievement are you proudest of ?

by animals, interesting people, and beautiful

Creating a beautiful life in Lexington

things. Which artist or historical figure do

with family, friends, and

you most identify with? Karen Blixen. The

horses, restoring our 1850s

romance of her life in Africa

home, and building my

has always captivated

three children's clothing

me —the an ima ls,

brands—Little English,

the landscape, the

Bisby, and 3 Martha’s. It’s been a

fascinating characters,

wonderful blend of family, creativity,

and the adventure of it all.

and entrepreneurship. What virtue

What is your idea of perfect happiness? An

does everyone praise that you find

evening at our farm surrounded by family

overrated? Restraint! I've always

and friends, fires crackling, laughter

believed more is more—whether

filling the room, Labradors asleep

it's decorating , entertaining , or

on the floor, and bourbon flowing. Nowhere

dreaming up my next

else I'd rather be. What is your greatest

a d v ent ur e . I f y o u

fear? Not having my husband and

could be reincarnated

children by my side to share

as a person or thing ,

life's adventures, both big and

what would you be? The

small. The people you love are what

magnificent old magnolia tree at

make the journey worthwhile. What

SummerTrees, my family's 1820

traits or characteristics do you most value in

home in Mississippi. To stand for

others? Kindness, loyalty, a wonderful sense of

generations, watching life unfold

humor, and above all, people who make others feel

beneath my branches and collecting stories along

included. I admire those who are genuinely curious

the way. What is your most treasured possession,

about life and have the ability to make everyone feel welcome and valued. What is your greatest regret, or the road not taken that still lingers? I really don't have any regrets. Every road I've taken, even the winding ones, has led me to a life I love

and why? My mother's charm bracelet, filled with charms from around the world. My parents gave me a love of travel, adventure, and collecting beautiful things that tell a story and make a house a home.

and am proud of. Which living person do you most admire, and why?

What is your signature pour? Woodford Reserve bourbon

My husband, Davant Latham. His kindness, strong faith, generous spirit, and

over crushed ice, a splash of club soda, a squeeze of fresh

genuine desire to serve others. He approaches life with joy and optimism and

orange, and a few cherries, served in a glass with the rim rubbed

always sees the best in people. What is your most unrepentant indulgence?

with fresh orange. My own twist on an Old Fashioned—refreshing, sl slmag.net