Sophisticated Living Nashville January/February 2026

We

PUBLISHER

Dave Mahanes

EDITOR - IN - CHIEF Melissa Mahanes

FEATURES

ASSOCIATE

CONTRIBUTORS Writers

Michelle

Vicki

Melissa Mahanes

Vivek Surti

Photographers

Charlie Mahanes

Melissa Mahanes

at nashville@slmag.net.

CONTACT US

Melissa: 615.308.9294 / melissa@slmag.net

Dave: 615.495.4250 / dave@slmag.net nashville@slmag.net

SOPHISTICATED LIVING

Eric Williams, CEO

Bridget Williams, President

Greg Butrum, General Counsel

Jason Yann, Art Director

In the March/April 2024 issue of Sophisticated Living, I wrote about my spring vacations with my parents in Key Biscayne from 1967 to 1973. Beginning in 1974, we started taking ski vacations for spring break.

In the summer of 1973, Dad went to Sun Valley for Jack Daniel’s national sales convention. So, the following year, he was inspired to arrange a future trip for the family. Dad was the only one of us who had skied before. While he was in the army during the occupation of Germany, he took some R&R and went skiing in Switzerland. When we started skiing, being an overprotected only child, my parents wouldn’t let me take the ski lift to the bunny slope the first few days. Instead, I had to herringbone up partway on a bunny slope, ski down, and do it again and again. Well, this backfired on my parents as I got a massive blister on my heel that got infected, which resulted in blood poisoning and missing some of the days on the slopes.

Over the next several years, after taking some ski lessons and going on more ski trips, I became a pretty decent skier. I could get down the intermediate, blue-rated ski slopes if they didn’t have many moguls. Black diamond runs, forget about it. I could get down them but not gracefully, and they weren’t a lot of fun for me. On one trip, I wanted to take my dad down a slope that wasn’t hard for me but turned out to be challenging for him. He took multiple falls on that ski run and slid down several yards after each fall in his 70’s orange vinyl ski suit. After the final fall, he looked up at me and said, “Son, you realize I still need to survive to pay for your education!”

My parents were very apprehensive about catching the ski lifts. One spring break, we went skiing in the Squaw Valley/Lake Tahoe area, and on one particular day, we skied at nearby Sugar Bowl. The binding on one of my skis broke, so I had to walk down the mountain with my skis, after which I settled down for a margarita at the outdoor bar at the bottom of the slope. There, I watched my parents come down hard on the lift chair, which started rocking aggressively, until they, in their bright ski suits, rocked right off the lift into a snowbank below. Fortunately, only their pride was hurt.

We eventually started having our ski vacations in Vail. There, I learned to enjoy aprèsski as much as skiing. Getting into a hot tub with a drink after a long day on the slopes is very, very relaxing to say the least. The restaurants there were always terrific. We spent Christmas and New Year’s there one year. I can remember dining at an excellent French restaurant there on New Year’s Eve, where actor James Mason was at the next table. The restaurant had a two-story window facing the mountain, offering a fantastic view. To celebrate New Year’s Eve, a long line of skiers skied down the hill, each holding a light. It was spectacular.

My parents eventually bought a place in Beaver Creek that was right at the bottom of the ski slope near the lift. I have many fond memories of trips to Beaver Creek with my parents, including visiting with my parents’ closest friends in Nashville West, a large ski house owned by several Nashville families. Beaver Creek had a deal where property owners would ski for free once they turned 73. The actuaries must have figured this out because by the time Dad turned 73, he was no longer comfortable skiing and sold the place!

Wishing you blue skies and blue trails, free of moguls (unless that’s your thing), in 2026.

Dave Mahanes, Publisher dave@slmag.net

WELCOME home

Now Open

e Crestmoor at Green Hills understands that needs may evolve over time. at’s why we o er a full continuum of care—from luxury Independent Living to Assisted Living and Memory Care—all within our elegant community. With an expert team and supportive services tailored to each resident’s preferences, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing compassionate care is always close at hand.

- Assisted Living: Individualized care programs and amenities for our residents.

- Memory Care: A secured, nurturing environment for residents with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.

SOAR® Program: Developed in partnership with e Neuroscience of Memory, Mood and Aging at Rice University, this innovative memory care program incorporates the latest research and specialized support.

e Crestmoor at Green Hills is more than home—it’s a premier senior living destination designed for those who want to Live Life Well®.

JANUARY 15-16

ALGO

JANUARY 19-21

ZANG TOI JANUARY 22-24

LAFAYETTE 148 JANUARY 27-FEBRUARY 3

LOURDES CHAVEZ FEBRUARY 5-7

FRASCARA MARCH 19-21

BEYONDABOVE&

Ryan Aviation Group Elevates Private Travel Through Precision, Partnership, and Personal Service

Ryan Aviation Group has earned a reputation as a trusted partner in private aviation, serving the music and film industries alongside a diverse portfolio of business and leisure clients. With decades of industry expertise, the company is uniquely positioned to orchestrate complex, multi-leg global music tours with the same precision and discretion it brings to a single flight for a critical board meeting or an elegant weekend escape.

At the heart of Ryan Aviation Group’s success is a philosophy that values expertise as much as human connection. Founder and Executive Chairman Dan Ryan explains that while private aviation is often viewed through a purely numbers-driven lens, the company has intentionally built a culture rooted in personality, shared values, and long-term relationships. “We take

pride in emphasizing the human side of the equation,” Ryan says. “We are truly a company with a heartbeat.”

That philosophy has guided Ryan Aviation Group through a period of remarkable growth—particularly since relocating its headquarters to Nashville in 2021. The move placed the company at the crossroads of business, entertainment, and culture, aligning seamlessly with its expanding client base.

Recently, Ryan appointed longtime protégé George “JoJo” Wozniak as Chief Executive Officer, a leadership transition that reflects both continuity and evolution. Together, Ryan and Wozniak have helped shape a company culture that blends operational excellence with approachability—an uncommon balance in private aviation.

We are the best in the world. And being the best in the world does not mean that we are the biggest, or fly every single private jet client. Simply put its the quiet confidence in knowing exactly who we are, and the service we provide.

– George “JoJo” Wozniak

I want to personally thank the family of clients that have given us the opportunity to soar. It has been an absolute joy to walk down the path with you and share in your lives. We look forward to creating more memories inside the incredible journey and adventure ahead. We will continue to join you on this Limitless Road!

–Dan Ryan

Nashville’s rapid growth has proven to be a catalyst for Ryan Aviation Group’s expansion. As the city has become a magnet for entrepreneurs, touring artists, professional athletes, and creative executives, demand for personalized, high-touch aviation services has followed.

Long regarded as a high-level boutique charter operation, Ryan Aviation Group has built its reputation on making every client feel like its only client. As the company experiences rapid growth—and prepares to unveil forthcoming acquisitions across the Atlantic—it is positioning itself not only as a charter provider but as a global institution and brand. Unlike larger charter operators, Ryan Aviation Group offers a boutique approach, tailoring every detail, remaining agile in the face of last-minute changes, and building relationships that extend well beyond a single flight.

What sets Ryan Aviation Group apart is its commitment to scale without sacrificing soul. Even as the company expands internationally, leadership remains focused on preserving the values, personal attention, and human experience that have defined the brand from the beginning. It is a philosophy rooted in performance at the highest level—while remaining, at its core, a company with a heartbeat.

For Ryan Aviation Group, success is measured by more than flight hours or fleet size. Since relocating its headquarters to Nashville, the company has made a deliberate effort to invest in the community it now calls home. Community involvement and philanthropy are embedded into the company’s mission, with success viewed not only through growth, but through contribution. From supporting local charitable organizations to engaging in industry-adjacent initiatives that benefit education, veterans, and youth development, Ryan Aviation Group approaches philanthropy with the same intentionality it brings to aviation. Rather than treating giving as an afterthought, leadership views it as a responsibility—one that aligns with the company’s core belief in people, relationships, and long-term impact.

As the company looks toward the future, Nashville remains central to its vision—a place where business opportunity, creative energy, and community engagement intersect. With a leadership team grounded in experience and guided by values, Ryan Aviation Group continues to redefine sl

Ryan Aviation Group / ryanaviationgroup.com / 615.200.8796

Instagram: @ryanaviationgroup

$4,700,000

Sophisticated Southern Living in Thompsons Station

A Southern Living–inspired estate with timeless elegance and modern comfort. Set on 10+ acres in prestigious Bear Creek Farms, this 5,300+ sq ft home offers privacy, sophistication, and convenience to Franklin and Nashville. Enjoy serene views, a chef’s kitchen, and stunning outdoor spaces, including a spa, fireplace, and an entertaining patio. Now offered as two separate parcels, this property captures the essence of refined Tennessee living.

STORIES IN BLACK AND WHITE

Culture and Cuisine Converge at Drusie & Darr by Jean-Georges

Written by Melissa Mahanes / Photos by Madeline Johnson and Sam Calderon

Nashville has long been a city where storytelling thrives—from the timeless notes of country music drifting through Broadway to the elegant architecture that whispers tales of the past. Now, the city’s historic Hermitage Hotel has written a new chapter in its own story with a first-of-its-kind collaboration featuring celebrated fine art photographer Timothy White.

Renowned as one of the most influential figures in contemporary photography, White has spent more than four decades capturing iconic personalities across Hollywood, music, fashion, and advertising. His portraits distill entire narratives into a single frame, transforming fleeting moments into cultural touchstones. From Bruce Springsteen and Dolly Parton to Paul McCartney and Miley Cyrus, White’s lens has immortalized many of the world’s most recognizable figures— artists who have entrusted him to help shape the visual language of their public identities. Now, for the first time, these images are on permanent display within a landmark hospitality setting.

The collaboration brings together three storytellers, each expressing their craft in a different medium: The Hermitage Hotel, Jean-Georges, and Timothy White. The hotel speaks through its storied architecture and historic presence; Jean-Georges communicates through flavor, creating dining experiences that linger long after the last bite; and White tells stories through the quiet power of the camera. Together, they create a dialogue between culture and cuisine, art and experience.

A National Historic Landmark and Nashville’s original “million-dollar property,” The Hermitage Hotel has transformed its signature restaurant, Drusie & Darr by Jean-Georges, into a living gallery. Twenty-two of White’s celebrated portraits now line the walls, featuring icons of music, film, and entertainment. Guests may encounter Jon Bon Jovi—who has stayed at the hotel more

than 100 times and once credited its yellow notepads with inspiring lyrics—alongside Paul McCartney braving a cold Toronto shoot for Rolling Stone or a candid moment with Julia Roberts during an unexpected stop at a tire shop. Each image offers a glimpse into a singular moment that helped shape modern culture.

“Timothy White’s portraits capture the same spirit of influence and artistry that has always lived within these walls,” said Dee Patel, Managing Director of The Hermitage Hotel. “For more than 114 years, The Hermitage Hotel has been a stage for history and a home for artists, leaders, and visionaries. This collaboration honors Nashville’s legacy while inviting guests to experience culture in a new way.”

While White’s work has long been exhibited in museums and galleries worldwide, this installation marks his first permanent exhibition in a hospitality setting. For White, the partnership feels natural. “Nashville has always been a place where artistry and storytelling thrive,” he said. “The Hermitage Hotel embodies that spirit, making it the perfect home for these narratives.”

The experience is further elevated by Jean-Georges’ culinary artistry. Dining at Drusie & Darr becomes a multisensory journey, where innovative cuisine unfolds alongside visual histories of Dolly Parton, Miley Cyrus, Keith Urban, and Shania Twain—each portrait adding depth to the experience. More than a place to stay, The Hermitage Hotel remains a cultural cornerstone where history, art, and storytelling converge. Through this collaboration, it continues its tradition of honoring creativity and influence, offering guests an immersive experience that is both sophisticated and unforgettable— one extraordinary story at a time. sl

Drusie & Darr by Jean-Georges at The Hermitage Hotel

231 Sixth Avenue North, Nashville, TN 37219 / 615.345.7116 / thehermitagehotel.com

Hours: Open every day 7:00am-10:30am, 11:30am-2:00pm, 5:00pm-10:00pm

Reservations on OpenTable.

Excellence Recognized.

"Oakworth stands apart for its expertise, quick responsiveness and thoughtful, practical guidance. As JetRight continues to grow, their support has made all the di erence."

- JetRight CFO Teresa Lewis Oakworth Client, Commercial Banking & Treasury Management

SEVEN WEEKS OUT

Inside the Making of a Seasonal Menu at Tailor

Written by Liz Beck and Vivek Surti / Photos by Minnie Morklithavong

Tucked away in Germantown’s historic district is one of Nashville’s most esteemed local dining destinations, Tailor. Offering a timeless dinner party experience, founder/owner Vivek Surti honors his heritage through a multi-course meal inspired by his first-generation Indian-American experience. In November, Tailor was named a Recommended Restaurant in the inaugural Michelin Guide to the American South, becoming the first Gujarati restaurant to be recognized by the Michelin Guide.

Behind the polished ease of every well-run, high-caliber restaurant is a meticulous weeks-long creative process. Every detail of the guest experience is taken into consideration, from the number of courses and where each ingredient is sourced to the type of utensils and glassware needed for an optimal guest experience. As Surti unveils a new seasonal menu at Tailor, we asked him to share what really happens before the first guest ever takes a seat at the table.

WEEKS 7 & 6: STORYTELLING

Each menu at Tailor has a set roadmap to emulate the warmth of a dinner party at a friend’s house, which means we always start with a snack or two on the table, followed by seasonal vegetables, seafood, heavier proteins, and dessert. We always end each meal with a cup of my dad’s signature chai blend and my aunt’s nankhatai, an Indian cookie. Expanding on those menu staples, I start with the question: What story do I want this season to tell? Seasonality guides everything at Tailor. I build each menu around ingredients at their peak, and that means communicating with our local farm vendors and purveyors. They’re a crucial part of this process, giving me a sense of what they’re excited to harvest or, alternatively, what didn’t have a great season. From the guest’s perspective, the ingredients taste better. From the restaurant’s perspective, ingredients are easier to source, they’re less expensive, and they taste better. This is the stage where ideas begin to take shape.

WEEKS 5 & 4: RECIPE DEVELOPMENT AND TASTE TESTS

Once I have the framework, I dive into recipe development, and that always starts at home with my mom. So many of our family recipes have been passed down verbally, so I like to get her in the kitchen and watch her prepare a dish that we’d have for holidays, when guests come over, or normal weeknight family dinners. I write down her method and rough measurements, then I prepare the dish myself over and over again until I have a recipe that I’m happy with.

As these dishes evolve, I also begin shaping the stories that will accompany them during service. At Tailor, every plate has a narrative woven into it, whether it’s the context in which the dish is typically enjoyed, the significance of an ingredient, the history, or a family story. These weeks are where the heart of the menu really starts to emerge.

WEEKS 3 & 2: LOGISTICS, TRAINING, AND FINAL REFINEMENTS

By the time we reach the last few weeks, the creative work shifts into technical mode. I train our kitchen team on the menu, new techniques, and plating, and we nail down timing to achieve a natural

flow. I also welcome feedback at this stage, and we make adjustments as needed. Substitutions are discussed for possible dietary restrictions.

Meanwhile, we create the seasonal cocktail offerings and develop the wine, cocktail, reserve, and spirit-free pairings for our beverage pairing add-ons. This is also when we place final orders with purveyors, and delivery cadences are finalized.

WEEK 1: SHOWTIME

Some dishes take several days to execute, so prep begins early in the final week, and we train the front-of-house team on the new menu and accompanying stories. We also finalize the menu design before printing and sit down as a team to taste each dish.

By the time the doors open and our first guest sits down on Thursday, it becomes an experience shared with everyone in the room. That’s when I know the season has truly begun. As I say at Tailor: we can’t wait to welcome y’all to dinner. sl

Tailor / 620 Taylor Street, Nashville, TN 37208 / tailornashville.com

Hours: Thursday-Saturday 5:00pm-10:00pm, Sunday 5:00pm-8:00pm

Reservations: tailornashville.com or sevenrooms.com / Instagram: @tailornashville

FOLLOW THE NORTH STAR

The 26th Annual Nashville Promise Gala

On Saturday, April 25, 2026, the Nashville community will come together for one of the city’s most anticipated black-tie evenings, the 26th Annual Breakthrough T1D Nashville Promise Gala, an elegant celebration of hope, purpose, and progress in the pursuit of cures for Type 1 diabetes (T1D).

Guided by this year’s Starry Night theme, guests will gather beneath a constellation of twinkling lights at the Omni Nashville Hotel, each one symbolizing a breakthrough, a story, and a future we are determined to change. For Breakthrough T1D, formerly JDRF, this gala is more than an event. It is a night where our community’s brightest stars align to accelerate the research that will one day free millions from the burden of T1D.

This year, Breakthrough T1D proudly honors the Hubbard Family for their extraordinary leadership and longstanding commitment to advancing T1D research. Fund A Cure Chairs, the Konves Family, will share their deeply personal journey with T1D, a moment of courage and inspiration that lies at the heart of the Promise Gala each year.

For 26 years, the Promise Gala has been recognized as one of Nashville’s premier charitable and corporate gatherings. Last year, more than 500 supporters raised an extraordinary $1.2 million for life-changing Type 1 diabetes research, including scientific advances happening right here in Tennessee. Breakthrough T1D currently invests nearly $4 million across eight research projects at Vanderbilt University, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, and East Tennessee State University.

Approximately 80% of every dollar raised goes directly toward research and research-related education, making the Promise Gala one of the most impactful philanthropic evenings in the region. sl

6:00 PM – Cocktail Reception Guests will step into a shimmering atmosphere of community celebration with cocktails, passed appetizers, and live music beneath a starry Nashville sky.

7:30 PM – Dinner, Live Auction & Program An inspiring program filled with stories of resilience, innovation, and hope. The exciting live auction and Fund A Cure moment directly support global research to cure, prevent, and treat T1D and its complications. The Premium Table Experience allows Patron and Feast table supporters to enjoy elevated benefits, including VIP check-in, premium wine service, dedicated waitstaff, and personalized auction concierge delivery.

9:30 PM – After Party: The Starry Night Soirée Guests dance the night away as we toast to the breakthroughs behind us, and the ones still to come.

Our North Star: A future without Type 1 Diabetes Breakthrough T1D remains the leading global organization funding Type 1 diabetes research and advocating for those impacted by this life-altering autoimmune condition. Our mission is bold yet clear: to make life better today, and cure T1D tomorrow. As the stars align at this year’s Promise Gala, we honor the extraordinary strength of the Nashville community and the luminous progress guiding us toward a future where Type 1 diabetes is no longer a life-long burden, but a solved problem. Join us as we follow the North Star to cures. For event details, sponsorship opportunities, or tickets, visit www.breakthrought1d.org/tennessee/events/breakthrough-t1d-nashville-promise-gala-2026

OUR PATH TO CURES AND IMPROVING LIVES

1976 How HbA1c Came To Be Breakthrough T1D-funded researcher Anthony Cerami, Ph.D., demonstrates that hemoglobin can be used to more effectively measure blood glucose level management. This discovery led to the creation of the hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) test.

1983 First Commercially Available Insulin Pump First insulin pump developed and commercialized by one of Breakthrough T1D’s industry partners.

1989 First Islet Transplant in Humans Breakthrough T1Dbacked researcher Paul Lacey, M.D., Ph.D., performs first islet transplant in humans.

1997 Special Diabetes Program Congress establishes a special Diabetes program (SDP) to address limitations in diabetes research. The SDP advances T1D research at the National Institutes of Health and has dedicated 43.4 billion to T1D research since its inception. Breakthrough T1D is the key advocate for SDP renewal.

1999 First Children’s Congress Led by Mary Tyler Moore, the first Breakthrough T1D Children’s Congress empowers children with T1D to share their experiences with members of Congress and advocate for federal funding of T1D research.

2000 Edmonton Protocol Breakthrough T1D-backed researchers established the Edmonton protocol to successfully transplant donor islet cells using much less toxic immunosuppressive drugs.

2006 Artificial Pancreas Consortium Breakthrough T1D launches the Artificial Pancreas Consortium, bringing together the best scientists from all sectors to work on the development and delivery of AP systems.

2008 Broader CGM Use Breakthrough T1D-funded clinical trial demonstrates efficacy of continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) blood sugar management. The study results in recommendations for CGM use by all leading diabetes professional societies and widespread coverage by private insurers.

2014 Stem Cells Into Insulin-Producing Beta Cells Two breakthrough T1D-funded investigators develop methods for converting stem cells into insulin-producing beta cells. Cell therapies built on decades of Breakthrough T1D- funded research are now in human clinical trials and showing amazing results: several therapy recipients have been able to stop taking insulin.

2016 The T1D Fund Formed by Breakthrough T1D volunteers eager to catalyze more private investment in T1D cure therapies, The T1D Fund: A Breakthrough T1D Venture, is a fund that has transformed the fight to cure T1D. The fund has created an investment market in curing T1D by attracting private venture capital.

2016 FDA Approves First Artificial Pancreas System FDA approves the first hybrid closed loop AP system to automate dosing of insulin, something Breakthrough T1D championed since 2006.

We played an integral role working on the regulatory pathway and provided funding to develop the system. Eight AP systems are approved for use in the United States.

2022 First Disease-Modifying Therapy For T1D Approved The FDA approves the first disease-modifying therapy for individuals at risk for developing T1D. This watershed moment for the T1D community has been supported by breakthrough T1D since 2002. In 2023, clinical trial results show that three other disease-modifying therapies preserve beta cell function and slow progression of new-onset T1D.

2022 A Plan To Produce Affordable Insulin With support from Breakthrough T1D, Civica announces plans to produce lower cost biosimilar insulins. These insulins will be available to anyone, regardless of insurance status, at no more than $30/vial or $55/ box of five pens.

2022 T1D Index The T1D Index, an initiative led by Breakthrough T1D, provides the first comprehensive picture of T1D. The index’s data shows the presence and growth of T1D around the globe.

2023 FDA Approves First Cell Replacement Therapy The FDA approves Lantidra™, the first beta cell replacement therapy. This establishes a key regulatory pathway we will work to accelerate for stem-cell derived based therapies. Our cell therapy program is also addressing immunosuppression.

2023 AP Systems Improve Pregnancy Outcomes Breakthrough T1D-funded study finds AP systems substantially reduced maternal blood sugars, benefitting mothers and babies. The study recommends a key advance in standards of care: that all pregnant women with T1D have access to AP systems.

2024 Pushing For A Better Clinical Trial Endpoint Breakthrough T1D-funded research recommends a new way to gauge the efficacy of T1D therapies in development: C-peptide, a biomarker for insulin production. We will use this to advocate for faster, more accurate clinical development and approval of T1D therapies.

2024 First Early Detection Guidelines Breakthrough T1D helps establish the first international monitoring guidelines for T1D early detection. These will raise awareness of early detection among healthcare providers, prompting more of them to prescribe it.

2024 Cell Therapies Advances For the first time, an islet replacement therapy is advancing to a pivotal trial—the data from this kind of trial is used to seek regulatory approval. Researchers find a drug could protect transplanted islets with fewer harsh side effects.

2024 Project ACT Breakthrough T1D launches Project ACT (Accelerate Cell Therapies), our initiative to dramatically speed up the development and delivery of cell therapies. It will do for cell therapies what our Artificial Pancreas Project did for automated insulin delivery systems. Make them a reality, faster.

GET YOUR M AHJ ON

Mahjong is about more than strategy and luck, it’s about connection

Written by Melissa Mahanes / Photos by Lifestyle by LeBlanc

Mahjong is more than a game—it’s a cultural icon, a mental workout, and a deeply social ritual. Lately, it seems to be everywhere, from Julia Roberts chatting about it on The Late Show to Amy Poehler on Jimmy Kimmel and Kelly Ripa on morning television. For me, it has been a constant for five years now, firmly penciled into my calendar at least once—sometimes twice—a week. It is at once stimulating and calming, an excuse to catch up with friends, laugh freely, strategize intently, and keep the mind sharp. Mahjong is about concentration, competition, and connection—in that order, and sometimes in reverse.

The game traces its origins to 19th-century China, where it was created to teach discipline, strategy, and calculation. Mahjong—also spelled Mahjongg or Mah-Jongg—likely evolved from earlier card games such as Ma Tiao (Madiao). What began as a pastime among the Chinese elite gradually spread throughout the country before crossing oceans in the early 20th century. By the 1920s, Mahjong had landed squarely in the United States, where it became a Jazz Age sensation, marketed as an exotic and fashionable pastime. Joseph Babcock, a Standard Oil executive working in Shanghai, translated and standardized the rules for Western players, while Parker Brothers helped introduce the game to American households, sparking a social phenomenon from New York to Los Angeles. Within the

Jewish community, especially, Mahjong took on deep cultural significance—becoming both a beloved pastime and a testament to enduring familial and social bonds.

Today, Mahjong exists in many forms—Chinese, Hong Kong, Japanese, American, and more—each with its own rules, tiles, and distinctive rhythms. The balance of luck, skill, memory, and strategy shifts depending on the version. Some games are fiercely competitive; others are purely social. Across all styles, however, there is a tactile pleasure that remains universal: the shuffling of tiles, the building of the wall, the familiar click as pieces meet the table. It’s a small ritual that signals the start of a mental chess match.

Traditionally, four players gather around a square table. Each begins with 13 tiles, while the dealer starts with 14. The objective is to complete a 14-tile hand, typically composed of four sets and a pair. Tiles include Dots, Bamboo, and Craks, numbered one through nine, along with Winds, Dragons, and jokers. Players draw and discard in turn, forming pairs, pungs, kongs, and even quints. When someone finally calls “Mahjong!” it’s a celebration often followed by the playful groans of those left one tile short.

In the United States, the National Mah Jongg League (NMJL) card has long served as the ultimate authority. Issued annually, it dictates the hands and fuels spirited debates about which tiles are friends or foes. In recent years, variations of non-tournament American Mahjong have developed their own personalities. The Marvelous Mahjong card offers flexibility and year-round play while maintaining a familiar structure. In contrast, the Whimsy Mahjong card introduces clever themes and inventive phrases, making the game feel fresh and creative. New cards are also emerging in 2026 from groups such as Mahjong Line and Oh My Mahjong, encouraging players to think—and play—outside the box.

The tiles themselves have evolved as well. Mahjong Line offers colorful, themed sets ranging from Cheeky and Botanical to Ocean and Foodie. Oh My Mahjong’s patterned play mats bring brightness and personality to the table, while classic Chinese sets remain timeless and widely loved. Choosing a new set or mat feels a bit like selecting an outfit—setting the mood before the first tile is drawn.

The best part? Mahjong is actually good for you. Studies have shown that increased Mahjong-playing experience is associated with improved cognitive, psychological, and functional abilities. As an intervention, the game has been found to enhance general cognition, boost short-term memory, and even help alleviate depressive symptoms. Perhaps just as importantly, it invites players to be fully present in a world that is increasingly distracted and digital.

A single game might last five minutes or stretch into an entire afternoon or evening filled with laughter, strategy, and storytelling. You win some, you lose some—but you always leave with a good story, and a connection that extends well beyond the tiles. sl

MISSY’S WINNING HAND

Missy Mahjong Brings Fun to the Table in Nashville

Written by Melissa Mahanes / Photos by Lifestyle by LeBlanc

If you’re into mahjong—or even just mahj-curious—you need to meet Michelle Dermenjian, AKA Missy Mahjong, Nashville’s newest mahjong ambassador. She’s a go-to for anyone who loves strategy, laughs, and a little friendly competition, all while supporting local charities.

Splitting her time between Chicago, Lake Geneva, and Music City, Missy Mahjong is on a mission to spread the positive power of the game. A certified instructor and devoted philanthropist, she offers private lessons where players can learn the intricacies of mahjong in exchange for a donation to a local charity. Sessions can be booked for parties, team-building events, or a unique girls’ night out. To date, she has raised an impressive $57,000 for charitable causes. Most recently, she hosted a fundraiser with Friends of Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital, which was a smashing success.

Missy Mahjong isn’t arranging your grandmother’s game night. She hosts social evenings in Green Hills at Sports and Social, where players of all skill levels can gather for themed events to learn, refresh their skills, or enjoy open play. The atmosphere is casual yet competitive, with plenty of room for conversation. Registration is required in advance, but there is never a fee to attend—she simply asks players to be generous to the servers.

The real magic of Missy Mahjong? The sense of connection she creates. In a city that moves fast, where everyone seems to be rushing somewhere, she slows things down in the best way. It’s a reminder that the simplest pleasures—a cup of coffee, a friendly face, a well-played tile—can bring some joy into every week. See you at the mahjong table!

I have asked MM to curate a list of her mahj must-haves-enjoy! sl Missy Mahjong / missymahjong.com / Email: missymahjong@gmail.com / Instagram: @missymahjong

UNDER THE INFLUENCE

Missy Mahjong shares her picks for stylish accessories (many Nashville-based!).

GREENER PASTURES

After a comprehensive renovation, Ireland's Adare Manor, host of the 2027 Ryder Cup, is ready to shine for a global audience.

Written by Bridget Cottrell

Ireland is a different kind of green. Even Johnny Cash, famously dubbed "The Man in Black," pined for the moorlands and the midlands in his gravelly bass-baritone for the song "Forty Shades of Green." I like to think that the verdancy of the Emerald Isle is Mother Nature's consolation prize for frequent rain and cloud cover, creating a beguiling beauty of a landscape renowned for scores of scenic walking and hiking routes and a passionate golf culture dating back to the mid-19th century

The latter will put Ireland at the epicenter of the world golf stage when the 2027 Ryder Cup comes to Adare Manor in County Limerick from September 13-19, marking only the second time the prestigious event has been held in the country. While the lead-up no doubt will be enough to prompt golfers of all abilities to add the storied property to their travel bucket list, one would be remiss in thinking that the Adare Manor's manicured greens are the sole attraction.

Current estimates put the number of castles and castle ruins in Ireland at 30,000, second only to France, which has 45,000. And, while it certainly bears all the hallmarks of a castle, Adare Manor, named after the adjacent storybook village, is actually

family

house. It sits on an 842-acre parcel of land (just one acre shy of Central Park) with a settlement history dating back to the 12th century.

Construction of the manor house commenced in 1832 under the auspices of Lady Caroline Wyndham, who was inspired by the cathedrals of Europe and passionate about Gothic architecture. Interestingly, Caroline's husband, Wyndham Henry Quinn, the second Earl of Dunraven, was a descendant of a modest landowner named Donagh Quinn, who in the 1600s laid the foundation for his family's ascent from humble beginnings to nobility.

A great many of the world's castles and great estates seem to share stories of rise and ruin, and Adare Manor is no different. In 1897, Adare Manor hosted the Duke of New York, later King George V, cementing its status as one of Ireland's greatest estates. The expense of maintaining the estate weighed heavily on subsequent generations, and Adare Manor gradually fell into disrepair. In 1982, the seventh Earl, unable to afford its upkeep, sold the property to a group of investors who, five years later, sold it to Tom Kane, a stockbroker from New York City.

Kane made considerable investments to transform the property into a 62-room luxury hotel. He turned 230 acres over to Robert Trent Jones to create an 18-hole golf course, which went on to host back-to-back Irish Opens in 2007 and 2008, but failed to attract the desired large number of American golfers.

Enter JP McManus, described by my airport driver as "a local lad from Limerick." McManus' own ascent from humble laborer in his father's contracting business to a billionaire mirrored Donagh Quinn's rise. He acquired the property in 2015 with the intent of attracting one of golf's most high-profile events, the Ryder Cup, and, in turn, celebrate his hometown before a global audience. A 22-month renovation, employing some 800 workers from mostly local firms, touched every space within the original structure and added a ballroom and a new wing with 41 bedrooms.

Just as significant was the remaking of the parkland golf course. McManus retained Tom Fazio, his senior design associate Tom Marzolf, and a team of 150 professionals to reimagine Jones' original course without rerouting any holes. Frequent Irish rain showers will be a non-issue courtesy of a SubAir turf management system, sand-capped fairways and roughs, and more than 50 miles of drainage pipe. As part of Adare Manor's lineup of complimentary activities, on Mondays, guests can tour the final

holes of the golf course (and take a shot or two). According to an overview in the in-room newsletter, the par 5, 9th hole is the longest at 633 yards. "It rewards bravery and punishes greed," Andy McMahon, Director of Golf Operations.

Even if you're not gaga for Gothic, and its more is better ornamentation, you can't help but appreciate the craftsmanship, particularly in the original section, which is a rare example of a 'Calendar House,' meaning it has 365 leaded windows, 52 ornate chimneys, seven stone pillars, and four towers.

Walking to my accommodation in the historic wing, I became a bit concerned when, turning a corner, the ceiling height lowered, temporarily leading me to imagine being squirreled away in an old maid's quarters. As soon as the door opened, my fears vanished at the revelation of the spacious room's vaulted ceiling and tall leadedglass windows overlooking the manicured parterre. A half-wall separated the sleeping area from dual vanities, a deep-soaking tub, and a pair of towering wardrobes. Feeling a bit like Alice, I pushed open a curiouser and curiouser small door, which revealed the water closet with a shower and a modern toile hunting scene wallpaper. In keeping with the rest of the hotel, form and function receive equal billing, creating an ethereal equilibrium that appeases everyone from antique aficionados to technophiles.

Breakfast and afternoon high are served in 132-foot-long Gallery, filled with works of art collected over time by

during tours of Britain and Northern Europe.

After decimating the stash of Irish shortbread cookies in my room's complementary snack and refreshment station, I sank into the cloudlike bed for a quick jetlag-busting nap, interrupted by the clippity-clop of horse hooves on the cobblestones beneath my window My regal repose inspired a self-indulgent moment of imagining myself as a middle-aged Rapunzel, letting down my hair for rescue by a knight in shining armor on horseback. But alas, the dream was short-lived, as the crank windows wouldn't allow me to poke my head out.

Not content with simply creating one of the best golf courses in Ireland, McManus also elevated Adare Manor's culinary program. In 2019, the Oak Room, under the direction of Chef Mike Tweedie, became the first-ever Michelin Star restaurant in County Limerick. The candlelit setting is as refined as the tasting menu that celebrates the best of what's local with decadent flourishes. The thoughtfully compiled wine list affords a unique pairing experience, while those who choose to abstain from alcohol can opt for deliberate mocktail pairings.

Lady Caroline assuredly possessed a taste for life's finer things, drawing inspiration from Versailles to create The Gallery, a 132-foot-long cathedral-like space with delicate tracery windows and 17th-century Flemish choir stalls. But unlike the "tone-deaf" reputation of Marie Antoinette, during the Irish famine, Lady Caroline established a school of needlework to support local women. Today, a bounteous breakfast buffet and elevated afternoon tea, served on bespoke china designed to match the detail of the ceiling inset, are hosted in the grandiose space.

Bespoke draperies fashioned from 18th-century French brocatelle match the opulence of The Drawing Room, which serves morning coffee and light meals and refreshments throughout the day. The subterranean Tack Room is a chic and cozy spot for elevated craft cocktails. Whiskey hounds can arrange a tasting from Adare Manor's library of more than 160 rare bottles procured from around the world. Oenophiles can book a similar experience in the private wine cellar.

A short stroll leads to The Carriage House, an impressive space with a greenhouse-like glass-walled dining room overlooking the golf course, a lawn hosting the whimsical "Adare Bear," the largest figurative bronze sculpture ever made in Ireland, and an adjacent walled garden where roses tumble over the granite walls. Here, amid the subtle touches of Art Deco, I enjoyed my idea of a "girl dinner": beef tartare and a Negroni.

Slightly further still is Harry Lowes Cottage, a historic stone cottage-turned-chocolaterie named in honor of its last resident. This chocoholic's dream opened in 2024 exclusively for guests. In addition to the most gorgeous retail space, it offers guided chocolate tastings, conducted similarly to a wine tasting, where you learn to discern a coca bean's terroir. With a relatively tiny footprint for an operation that uses two tons of chocolate annually, the kitchen, under the direction of French chocolatier Cedric Rivière, employs state-of-theart technology to go beyond chocolate bars and bonbons to create complex architectural pieces, including a scale replica of the Adare Bear.

Just outside the estate's stone walls lies the charming Adare Village, complete with thatched-roof cottages, a community park,

the ruins of Desmond Castle, the 13th-century Triniarian Abbey, shops from couture (Aoife Mc Namara) to kitsch, and no shortage of pubs, including Pat Collins Bar, Aunty Lena's, and Bill Chawke's Bar. Back on property, Deirdre Moore, Adare Manor's boutique manager, sources luxury sustainable handicrafts and oversees a bespoke collaboration with storied Irish clothing brand Jack Murphy.

There is more to Adare Manor than dining, although I could have happily filled my days by consuming my weight in warm Irish soda bread generously lathered with salted butter. Pursuits include those historically befitting a sporting estate—falconry, shooting, carriage rides, archery, fishing—alongside modern interests like Padel.

The contemporary and architecturally striking Padel Club opened in 2021 as a center of wellness and recreation. The facility encompasses two custom-built indoor padel courts (the first of their kind in Ireland), a 17m infinity pool with sauna and steam room, a glass-walled yoga studio that seems to float above the trees, a massive fitness room, and a sports simulation room with a swanky lounge for waiting your turn.

An absolute highlight of our myriad outdoor activities was the Irish gundog experience with Willie Forde, who founded Adare Country Pursuits in 1975. In addition to being a masterclass in obedience training, Forde dished out plenty of life lessons. "Dogs become self-employed very easily if not trained properly," he said, stressing the importance of consistency, something that applies to both man and beast.

It's little surprise that Ireland's lush landscape has given rise to fairies, Leprechauns, and elves. Near the Carriage House, a

lovely woodland meditation walk is also a fairy forest, complete with little buildings, miniatures, and signs with poetry. It's also an excellent place for rambunctious kids to burn off some pent-up energy and delight in discovering a menagerie of ogre-like wire sculptures engaging in various hijinks from golf to serving a platter of forest delicacies.

Even if you aren't sore from your first padel lesson, as I was, The Spa at Adare Manor — the only outpost of the acclaimed London brand 111Skin in Ireland — is a restorative destination for an hour or an afternoon. The cocoon-like space is a haven for relaxation, with a private pool and infrared sauna, a relaxation room with starrysky illumination, and a unique menu of face and body treatments inspired by ancient Celtic wisdom and its Ogham alphabet.

In a place that garners no shortage of superlatives, I appreciated the focused attention to even the most minor details, for instance, the thick stock of the in-room stationery and the custom monogram imprinted on the head of my Guinness. However, amid all the luxurious amenities, time and again I found myself transfixed by the landscape and the simple in-room pleasure of admiring how the clouds cast shadows on the verdant lumps and bumps of the meticulous golf greens, playing out like a time-lapse video.

"This charming spot was my home of unclouded happiness for 40 years," wrote Lady Caroline. "May heaven's choice blessings be poured with equal abundance on its present and future possessors." The fair lady would no doubt be pleased to see the joyful legacy of her treasured family assured for generations to come. sl For more information, visit AdareManor.com.

ONES TO WATCH

Moda Productions opens Paris’s most exclusive runways to independent designers

Photos courtesy of Moda Productions

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

SAGIO by Alexander Sagio

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

Jeevan by Hussain Rehar

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

Alersundi

by Alejandra Lersundi

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

MAZINI by Maria

Mazina

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

NÜ CZN by Judy and Nikki Murdock

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

Aleen Sabbagh

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

RAXXY by William Shen

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

MOLMAUNI x Nuki Cosmetics

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

Rosii Nguyen & Ragged Romances

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

CURVES AHEAD

Compiled by Bridget Cottrell

VROOM VROOM ROOMS

A roundup of notable motoring museums around the world.

Written by Matthew Cottrell

From the sleek lines of a vintage Ferrari to the mighty roar of a muscle car, car museums around the world serve as temples to automotive history, showcasing a captivating blend of engineering, design, and cultural impact. These institutions range from sprawling national collections to specialized, privately-run havens, each offering a unique journey through the evolution of the automobile and its influence on modern society. A visit to these museums provides an immersive experience into the technology, artistry, and heritage that define the world's long-standing love affair with the automobile.

United States

The Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum in Leeds, Alabama (barbermuseum.org), is the world's largest motorcycle museum, according to Guinness World Records. Situated on the 880-acre Barber Motorsports Park, it houses over 1,800 motorcycles, with more than 1,000 on display at any given time, alongside the world's most extensive collection of Lotus race cars and other vintage race cars.

The Brumos Collection in Jacksonville, Florida (thebrumoscollection.com) focuses on the evolution of the automobile through competition, with a significant emphasis on the legacy of Brumos Racing and Porsche, and on showcasing cars tested in iconic

races like Daytona and Sebring. Visitors can explore a wide range of vehicles, including rare open-cockpit racers dating back to 1894, vintage Indianapolis 500 cars, Grand Prix machines, a vast selection of Brumos Porsches. Notable vehicles include Steve McQueen's Porsche 917K from the film Le Mans.

A national historic landmark, the 250-acre complex of The Henry Ford in Dearborn, Michigan (thehenryford.org) offers five distinct attractions, including the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation (home to Rosa Parks' bus and JFK's limousine, among other exhibits), the Ford Rouge Factory Tour, and the Benson Ford Research Center.

Located inside the Indianapolis Motor Speedway oval, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum (imsmuseum.org) is fresh off a $60.5 million, 17-month renovation, its first significant renovation in 40 years. The addition of 40,000 square feet of made room for new immersive and dynamic experiences, including seven permanent and three rotating galleries, a new mezzanine dedicated to displaying nonvehicle artifacts, The "Starting Line Experience," an immersive video space showcasing the pageantry leading up to the start of the "500", state-of-the art racing, and a "pit stop challenge" for guests to learn the tools and equipment of the racing trade.

Housed in a converted former bakery, the Lane Motor Museum in Nashville, Tennessee (lanemotormuseum.org), offers a unique and extensive collection of over 500 predominantly European automobiles, with a focus on unusual and innovative designs. Notably, it is one of the few working museums in the U.S. that strives to maintain nearly all its vehicles in running order. For a deeper dive, the museum offers weekend "Vault Tours" of the extensive reserve collection stored in the basement.

The LeMay-America's Car Museum in Tacoma, Washington (americascarmuseum.org), is a 165,000-square-foot, four-level facility that showcases the history and culture of the American automobile. The museum's collection, which includes over 300 cars, trucks, and motorcycles, is based around a core group of vehicles from the private collection of Tacoma businessman Harold LeMay.

Located across the street from the only GM assembly plant that builds Corvettes, the 115,000-square-foot National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky (corvettemuseum.org), provides a chronological journey through all eight generations of the Corvette, from the first 1953 models (C1) to the current mid-engine C8s. More than 80 cars are on display in nostalgic, periodic settings, such as a 1950s-style service station and soda shop.

With a striking façade composed of a red aluminum rain screen overlaid with a series of 308 undulating, "angel hair" stainless-steel ribbons, the Petersen Automotive Museum (petersen.org) is an architectural marvel on Los Angeles's famed Miracle Mile. Inside, the museum features over 300 vehicles across 25 galleries, with exhibits organized thematically across three floors. The collection spans the entire history of the automobile, from early horseless carriages and pre-war classics to modern hypercars and alternative-fuel vehicles.

Europe

Housed in the Audi's original factory in Zwickau, Germany, and named to honor the founder of the manufacturing giant that eventually became Audi, the August Horch Museum's permanent collection showcases roughly 160 large exhibits. Vehicles, including early Horch and Audi models, DKW, Wanderer, and the iconic Trabant, are displayed in recreated historical settings that contextualize their place in history.

In the heart of Italy's "Motor Valley," the Automobili Lamborghini Museum in Sant'Agata Bolognese (lamborghini.com/ en-en/museum#val-tab) is dedicated to the history, innovation, and iconic models of the brand. Visitors can see a rotating collection of classic and modern supercars, including historical models like the Miura and Countach, as well as recent and one-off vehicles like the Sesto Elemento, Veneno, and Sián. They can also tour the factory production lines and test their skills in a driving simulator.

The BMW Museum in Munich (bmw-welt.com/en) is one of the oldest car museums in Germany. The permanent exhibition is split into seven theme-based exhibitions housing nearly 125 original exhibits from over 100 years of BMW Group history. In the Rotunda, temporary exhibitions highlight the company's brands or notable contemporary themes. The BMW Junior Museum offers interactive tours and a selection of workshops on topics such as design, architecture, art, and sustainability.

The British Motor Museum in the small village of Gaydon, Warwickshire (britishmotormuseum.co.uk) brings the story of British motoring to life with the world's largest collection of historic British cars, featuring more than 400 vehicles from the classic,

vintage, and veteran eras. Visitors can explore exhibits on the history of the British motor industry, see iconic movie cars like the FAB1 and the James Bond Land Rover.

With over 400 vehicles, the Cité de l'Automobile in Mulhouse, France (musee-automobile.fr/en/), is a national automobile museum renowned for housing the world's most extensive Bugatti collection. Beyond the exhibits, visitors can experience interactive road-safety simulations, a race-car demonstration area, and, for an extra fee, drive classic cars on a private track.

Assembled over two generations by the Louwman family, the Louwman Museum in The Hague (louwmanmuseum.nl/en/) owns the world's largest collection of cars built before 1910. It displays some of the earliest patented motorcars, including a Benz Patent-Motorwagen from 1886 and a De Dion Bouton & Trépardoux from 1887. Architect Michael Graves designed the purpose-built structure, which was opened in 2010 by Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands.

The unique double-helix structure with two spiral-like ramps guides visitors of the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, Germany, through the nine floors. The museum's interior has no enclosed rooms or straight walls, creating a dynamic flow for all the exhibits, which trace the history of the Mercedes-Benz brand and the automobile industry from its origins in 1886 to the present day.

Mark your calendars for May 2026, when the Musée des 24 Heures du Mans (lemans-musee24h.com/en), a motorsport museum located at the famous Circuit de la Sarthe in Le Mans, France, reopens as the M24 museum after undergoing a significant expansion.

The Museo Ferrari in Maranello, Italy (ferrari.com/en-EN/ museums/ferrari-maranello) is dedicated to the history of Ferrari, located near the factory and focusing on iconic road and track cars, as well as the company's motorsport successes. In contrast, the Museo Casa Enzo Ferrari in Modena (ferrari.com/en-EN/museums/enzoferrari-modena) centers on the life of Enzo Ferrari, featuring his birthplace and a futuristic building for temporary exhibitions. While both are Ferrari museums, the Maranello location is the marque's official company museum, showcasing its modern and historic cars.

Founded in 1933, the Museo Nazionale dell'Automobile in Turin, Italy (museoauto.com/en/mauto/) is considered one of the world's best car museums. It's collection of nearly 200 cars from over 80 different brands, arranged chronologically and thematically over three floors, tracing the car's evolution from its earliest models to modern concepts.

Asia

The Motorcar Museum of Japan, located in Komatsu City (motorcarmuseum.jp), is Japan's first and largest automobile museum, housing a vast collection of over 500 vehicles from the 1900s to the 1970s, including many early commercial vehicles that were crucial to Japan's post-war economic recovery.

The first dedicated automotive museum in China, the Shanghai Auto Museum, located in Jiading District (shautomuseum.com), it has over 100 cars from around the world, including many classic European models, as well as significant Chinese-made vehicles such as the Hongqi CA770 and the Shanghai SH760A. The museum, notable for the flowing curves of its exterior, sits adjacent to the Shanghai International F1 Circuit, China's first racing complex for Formula 1 cars. sl

CHEERS TO THE NEW YEAR!

A globetrotting wine expert shares five recent standouts.

Written by Vicki Denig

Bonjour, Sophisticated Living readers! My name is Vicki Denig, and I’m a wine and travel journalist, as well as a Certified Specialist of Wine, based between New York and Paris. With each issue, I’ll be sharing five of my top recent wine discoveries with you, in hopes that you’ll enjoy them just as much as I did. Check out this edition’s selection below and be sure to let me know what you think! Follow along on Instagram at @vickidenig/www.vickidenig.com.

Hambledon Vineyard Classic Cuvée Brut NV (Hampshire, England – SRP: $49.99)

Sparkling wine and the holiday season go hand in hand, though not all that glitters must be Champagne. This year, I was excited to try out this Classic Cuvée Brut from Hambledon Vineyards, located in the heart of Hampshire, England—yes, you read that correctly. While not a traditional winemaking country, England’s cool-climate conditions are highly conducive to growing grapes for sparkling wine production, especially in the wake of global warming. This flagship wine is made from the signature grape trio of Champagne (Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier) and is aged for an impressive minimum of three years on the lees prior to release. Elegant and well-balanced, the wine is dominated by flavors of baked apple, citrus, magnolia, and toasty brioche. Pop with fresh seafood or your favorite salty snacks for a seriously satisfying pairing.

(Burgundy, France – SRP:

Burgundy is known for producing ethereal wines that promise to age gracefully over time—and this captivating bottle from Domaine Rougeot is no exception. Rooted in Meursault, winemaker PierreHenri Rougeot organically farms 13 hectares of vines in and around this revered Côte de Beaune village. In the cellar, Rougeot beautifully meshes a low-intervention mentality with strong respect for regional tradition, resulting in beguiling wines that leave a lasting impression. Clos des Six Ouvrées is made from 100% Chardonnay cultivated at the base of the hill of Meursault and is fermented with native yeasts in concrete vats before aging for 18 months in French oak barrels. Luxurious and round, the wine’s notes of yellow apple, peach, honeysuckle, and baking spice are balanced by ample amounts of refreshing natural acidity.

Pax North Coast Syrah 2023

(California, USA – SRP: $37.99)

Pax Mahle is one of the original faces of the ‘New California’ wine movement, one that prioritizes balance and restraint over excessive ripeness and new oak. He moved to California with his wife in 1997 to source wine for Dean & Deluca, though just a few years later, he decided to start his own brand. Over the past 25 years, Pax has inspired

an entire generation of winemakers with his minimalist philosophy, believing that “great wines can only be made from great vineyards.” This varietal Syrah comes from a handful of organically farmed sites across northern California and is vinified with 100% whole cluster prior to aging for 10 months in neutral French oak. Notes of wild berries, cracked black pepper, olive brine, and lavender lead to a long, palate-coating finish; if you tend to gravitate towards wines from the Northern Rhône, this bottle is certain to blow your mind.

Giulia Negri Serradenari 'Pian delle Mole' Langhe Nebbiolo 2023

(Piedmont, Italy – SRP: $39.99)

Nebbiolo has become one of my favorite grape varieties, and expressions from Langhe are perfect for enjoying as ‘daily drinkers.’ Hailing from Piedmont, these “baby Barolos / Barbarescos” are youthful and bright—and contrary to their older siblings, are almost always suitable for immediate consumption. This bottling from Giulia Negri hails from high-elevation vineyards in the hills of La Morra, which are characterized by cool-climate conditions and marine sediment soils. In the cellar, the wine is fermented with native yeasts and aged for 14 months in a combination of stainlesssteel tanks and large tonneaux. Lifted and aromatic, the wine’s supple palate is driven by notes of sour cherry, cedar, forest floor, and a touch of cooling balsam. Serve slightly chilled for maximum enjoyment!

Bastian Wolber Côte de Nuits-Villages 2023 (Burgundy, France – SRP: $155.00)

Although Burgundy is known for its prestigious grand crus and big-name producers, what I find most exciting about the region is its plethora of up-and-coming young winemakers crafting exciting bottles from lesser-known areas—cue Bastian Wolber and the Côte de Nuits-Villages. Born in Germany, Bastian honed his winemaking skills at Domaine Leflaive and Domaine Ganevat before ultimately setting out on his own in 2020. This Côte de Nuits-Villages comes from two parcels (Aux Vignottes, located across the street from the Clos de la Maréchale, and Aux Fauques in Comblanchien) and is vinified with 100% whole clusters with native yeasts prior to aging for 10-18 months in used barrels. Bright and energetic—just like the hands that make it—the wine exudes flavors of wild strawberry, cherry, rose petal, and sweet spice. I enjoyed this bottle at Lei, a new-to-the-scene wine bar in Chinatown from restaurateur Annie Shi; if you find yourself in New York anytime soon, it’s an absolute must-visit. sl

When not writing, she enjoys running, indoor cycling classes, petting dogs, and popping bottles on her rooftop with friends.

HAPPY IN HEALDSBURG

Come for the wine, keep coming back for so much more.

Written by Bridget Cottrell

Some meals are so good, they're worth making a mess of yourself. That was the case at Arandas, the all-day dining spot at boutique hotel 27 North (hotel27north.com), located on the charming square in Healdsburg, California. As soon as I took one bite of their Quesabirria tacos, the warm, rich, savory, and slightly spicy birria consommé dribbled down my wrist, prompting a quick clean-up before quickly diving in for more messy deliciousness.

For this visit to the heart of Sonoma's wine country, we enjoyed one moment of culinary decadence after another (along with some outstanding wine). From the pistoriophile's perfect ham and gruyere croissant at Quail & Condor (quailandcondor. com), rivaled only by Parisian pâtisseries; to DIY after-dinner s'mores at Farmhouse Inn (farmhouseinn.com), where we didn't mind sticky fingers courtesy of their homemade marshmallows; a repeat visit to famed vegan restaurant Little Saint (neighbor's with 27 North; littlesainthealdsburg.com), whose culinary plantbased wizardry is flavorful and filling enough to make even the most ardent carnivore eschew their meaty ways for a meal; and sampling our way through a farmer's market, even dry travelers will find there's so much to love about this region.

I love Sonoma County—my list of "saved" homes on Zillow (which grows after each trip there) peeks at my pining for a California

contemporary lifestyle. Having visited in all four seasons and all types of weather, I firmly believe there's no "wrong" time, as each month offers unique experiences. Summer is ideal for outdoor activities; fall ushers in the busy harvest season; and temperate winter offers fewer crowds for exploring wineries before bud-break on dormant vines heralds the return of spring.

In a crowded hospitality market, Foley Entertainment Group has quietly been making significant inroads, most recently acquiring and rebranding the former Hotel Le Mars, a 20-year-old French chateau-inspired property, sited directly on Healdsburg's bustling square. It reopened this past summer as 27 North, offering outsized amenities for a 16-room boutique property. A refreshing watermelontequila cocktail offered at check-in was a primer for a top-notch, finger-licking dinner at Arandas, which serves a solid menu of Mexican staples done exceptionally well.

Throughout 27 North, classic French country touches are juxtaposed with contemporary artwork sourced specifically for the property. As the door to our third-floor room opened, I was surprised to discover a stately canopy bed beneath a beam-vaulted ceiling. Placed next to a gas fireplace with a faux limestone hearth, an eightfoot-tall wardrobe with pleated fabric behind the perforated grille on its doors elegantly serves as the room's closet.

Foley Family Wines owns over 25 wineries and distilleries, including both well-known and historic brands in California, Oregon, Washington, and New Zealand, which consistently garner 90+ point scores from reviewers for Wine Enthusiast and Wine Spectator. Guests of Foley-owned properties can participate in a sommelier-led tasting across their portfolio in the elegant library at 27 North, which notably includes Chalk Hill and Roth Estate in Sonoma and Foley-Johnson in nearby Napa. The experience is ideal for oenophiles on a shorter sojourn, offering a comprehensive tour of the terroir sans travel time between wineries.

While you can amply fill an afternoon or two perusing the small businesses, including clothing, home and jewelry boutiques, tasting rooms, restaurants, and art galleries that line Healdsburg Square, grab a sandwich to go from Troubadour (troubadourhbg.com), Quail & Condor's sibling, to fuel a day of exploring Sonoma County's 425 wineries spread among 19 different wine areas. This past October, Sonoma County Tourism

(sonomacounty.com) launched LOU, an AI tool and personalized trip-planning assistant for visitors.

Getting recommendations the old-fashioned way—from the people who live and work in the area—is still our go-to, as is a stop at Aperture Cellars (aperture-cellars.com). Winemaker Jesse Katz was recently named Wine Enthusiast's 2025 Winemaker of the Year, and the estate has been selected for The World's 50 Best Vineyards list, ranking at number 14. Splurge on the "Devil Proof Experience", which offers a private tasting of Malbec and Malbec blends that have earned Katz significant critical acclaim, including multiple 100-point scores from top wine critics.

Although it's just a few miles from Healdsburg, Farmhouse Inn, nestled in among towering trees in the Russian River Valley, feels worlds away. A former 19th-century family homestead, the boutique property, also part of Foley Entertainment Group, maintains a homelike appeal with just 25 rooms generously spaced around the wellness barn and garden pool.

At check-in, guests are invited to pack a goodie sack from the bath bar to take to their room. I opted for a brown-sugar scrub that smelled good enough to eat and chunks of locally made soaps in rainbow hues. All guest rooms and suites, decorated in a modern farmhouse style with slipcovered upholstery and a soothing color palette, are equipped with a steam shower and soaking tub, making an indulgent spa day possible without ever leaving the confines of your suite.

The casualness of a plethora of plantings, some with heavy blooms that graze the knees of guests traversing the pea-gravel paths between the various buildings—all designed to resemble agrarian structures with galvanized milk bucket light fixtures and corrugated metal roofing—belies their careful manicuring. Also abundant is the sound of running water, courtesy of rustic fountains and features that enhance the overall aura of tranquility.

Sonoma artist Marci Davis was tapped to create striking blackand-white horse murals in the treatment rooms within The Wellness Barn, which sits adjacent to the pool. The holistic spa, with plenty

of alfresco relaxation areas, offers a range of treatments using local, seasonal ingredients and specialized practices, such as a CBD, herbal, and Milk Moon baths and a farm-to-beauty facial that incorporates fruits, herbs, raw honey, goat's milk, and infused olive oil.

The Restaurant at Farmhouse Inn, located in the original circa 1879 farmhouse, is a celebration of California cuisine, existing in the rarefied air of fine dining establishments presenting multiple courses that feel indulgent yet still healthy, thanks to the preponderance of locally sourced ingredients, including their onsite Chalk Hill Culinary Gardens.

Our dessert course was a showstopper. The server approached our table with a lidded cut-crystal box that opened to reveal a gaggle of white truffles, carefully nestled on a bed of muslin. He proceeded to shave a generous portion of the pungent fungus atop a petite, puck-shaped date cake sitting in a pool of plate-licking caramel sauce. It was fitting finale to a quick trip punctuated by scores of elevated experiences. sl

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

CLUTCHPLAYERS

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

SilviaFurmanovich.com)

Judith Leiber Couture Collection’s Edition Dragon’s Eye Fan handbag ($4,995; judithleiber.com)

From Shanghai-based jewelry designer Grace Tang, this bejeweled “Starry Sky” clutch was crafted from hand-textured 18k yellow gold, mined diamonds and hand-cut onyx (price upon request; gracetangfinejewelry)

CUPID'S CHOICE

Compiled by Bridget Cottrell

Earrings (chrisploof.com). J ndianapolis, Opposite page clockwise from top left: Vices Love Lock (heavenlyvicesfinejewelry.com). Be ndant Earrings (fredleighton.com). Zahn-Z We Clicked Set y Angie Marei (mareinewyork.com). Shahla Karimi Jewelry Zaha Two-Stone Cushion Curve Engagement Ring ts Together Forever Ring (sealandscribe.com). Lionheart Jewelry Cassandane

HIGH POINT HIGHLIGHTS

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

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

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

Jamie Young Co. Zinnia chandelier (jamieyoung.com)

AURORA ANGUILLA RESORT & GOLF CLUB

A beachfront property with something for all ages

By Tracy Cottrell / Images courtesy of Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club

The word "Caribbean" is rife with vibrant tropical colors and textures, evoking balmy breezes, soft white beaches, temperate waters, and exotic fruit beverages to savor. The island of Anguilla embodies the Caribbean at its finest. Guests of the Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club (auroraanguilla.com), located on one of the most northerly of the Leeward Islands in the Lesser Antilles, are brought to the British Overseas Territory by speedboat, adding a touch of adventure to the abundance of glorious views of surrounding islands, villages, and ports along the way.

Upon arrival, it is a brief ride from the port to the Aurora Anguilla, where a welcoming corps of hospitality connoisseurs awaits to greet guests. The abundance of amenities, services, activities, and entertainment at this luxury resort is broad and deep and solely focused on enhancing guests' every experience. Eco-friendly transportation enables guests to access all areas of the resort quickly and easily.

Aurora Anguilla is a large resort on more than 300 acres, including two-and-a-half miles of beachfront. The hotel offers a

multitude of accommodations, providing guests with just what they need for their dream vacation. The multi-storied Merrywing Tower, in the style of a traditional hotel à la Mies van der Rohe, is a more intimate facility, close to the new Aurora Entertainment Park and a delightfully broad range of activities, including events at the Amphitheatre, a waterpark, an activity center, and 11pickleball courts, the most in the Caribbean. The Merrywing Beach enclave hosts a collection of private suites, as well as multibedroom seafront suites and private estate homes. Many include kitchens for vacationing gourmets and would-be chefs.

Merrywing Beach is also home to diverse dining options, including D Richard's Steakhouse, where I went against the grain, opting for a delicious vegetarian entrée made with exquisitely fresh vegetables, grains, and legumes. Enhancing my meal was an unexpectedly beautiful view of the Aurora International Golf Course (an 18-hole, par-72 championship course designed by Greg Norman), illuminated to bring out the vibrant greens and the darkening dusk sky, rendering the scene abstract and painterly.

Rendezvous Beach is a more private niche, close to the shore and nearby pool, with C Level and Chef's Table restaurants easily accessible. The more casual, open-air C Level is directly on the beach, with front row seats to the ebb and flow of the transparent turquoise sea. Listening to the rush of the waves while enjoying a fresh snapper fillet is a memory underscored by the softness of the breeze and the fluid watercolor landscape of the sky and setting sun. For swimming aficionados, Chef's Table, open for much of the day, is right next to the pool and within walking distance of the beach. The morning breakfast buffet, laden with colorful tropical fruit and freshly baked pastries, never disappoints.

Less well known, but equally impressive, is Aurora Anguilla's commitment to sustainability and wellness. Intentional interior design dually minimizes environmental impact while enhancing guests' experience. The onsite hydroponic farm provides a continuous and inspiring supply of fresh fruit and produce for resident chefs.

Beyond the luxurious accommodations, excellent dining, and pristine beaches, Aurora Anguilla offers guests access to

almost every water sport and vacation activity imaginable. Reveling in the spectacular Caribbean Sea surrounding Anguilla will be the central focus for visitors of all ages. Diving, kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, Hobie Cats, snorkeling, and aqua aerobics are available to every guest and can also add a unique element to weddings, family reunions, milestone birthday celebrations, or annual business meetings. For guests such as newlyweds or families desiring an intimate experience, privacy is readily available. The newly opened Aurora Entertainment Park appeals to children of all ages with a zero-entry swimming pool, lazy river, three thrilling water slides, a kids' splash pad, fullservice cabanas, and a swim-up bar

Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club is a sprawling property with diverse accommodations and an abundance of amenities available at any time. Guests transition seamlessly from activity to activity, seeking out the next adventure and joyful event. A strong undercurrent is Aurora Anguilla's sustained, deeply felt, warm, and genuine hospitality that embraces every guest throughout their stay sl

MADE IN THE SHADE

StruXure TN enhances all-season outdoor living with its luxury pergolas

Written by Melissa Mahanes / Photos courtesy of StruXure TN

In Nashville, outdoor living has evolved into something far more intentional than a simple patio or deck. As homeowners place greater value on time spent at home—hosting, unwinding, and reconnecting with nature—the backyard has become an extension of the interior, curated with the same care as any living space. Enter the modern pergola: architectural, adaptable, and designed for living.

StruXure innovative pergolas reflect this shift toward thoughtful outdoor design. Clean lines and high architectural standards create a polished foundation. At the same time, adjustable louvers allow the space to change with the day—welcoming soft morning light, offering shade during peak afternoon hours, and

opening to the evening breeze. Integrated rain management and discreet automation ensure the space remains usable even when Tennessee weather is unpredictable, reinforcing the idea that outdoor living should feel effortless rather than seasonal.

What distinguishes today’s most coveted outdoor spaces is customization rooted in lifestyle. Features such as retractable screens, ambient LED lighting, ceiling fans, heaters, and built-in audio transform a pergola into an actual outdoor living room—one that adapts to quiet mornings, family dinners, and elegant evenings with friends. The result is a setting that feels equally suited for casual routines and special gatherings, without ever feeling overdesigned.

Across Middle Tennessee, recent installations reveal how StruXure redefines spaces rather than simply cover them. Some create intimate retreats—perfect for reading, conversation, or a glass of wine by the fire—while others anchor expansive backyards with outdoor kitchens, layered seating, and softly illuminated gathering areas. Architectural-grade finishes and sustainably sourced materials ensure each pergola blends seamlessly into its surroundings while maintaining a timeless aesthetic.

The process itself mirrors the result: personal and considered. Projects begin with collaborative design conversations and detailed

3D renderings that allow homeowners to envision how a pergola will integrate into their home, landscape, or poolside setting. Whether freestanding or attached, residential or commercial, each structure is tailored to complement both architecture and lifestyle.

As outdoor living continues to define how Nashvillians entertain and unwind, the pergola has become less of an accessory and more of a statement—one that celebrates the beauty of the seasons, the art of gathering, and the luxury of simply being outside. Thoughtful, refined, and quietly transformative, it’s a natural evolution of the way we live now. sl StruXure TN / struxuretn.com

Backyard Resorts

YOU DREAM IT, WE’LL BUILD IT

Effortless luxury, built for life outdoors — from casual pools and elegant spas to outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, and waterfalls. New builds, renovations, and year-round service, all backed by our Jandy-certified expertise. Contact Lee Seelig at (615) 242-5284.

D cover N hvi e’s Oldest

Come for a tour and stay for the cocktails! Try a rotating selection of hand-crafted bourbon cocktails and award winning wines at Bonnie’s Bourbon and Wine Bar. Best Old Fashioned in Nashville!

Whether celebrating a milestone birthday, planning the office holiday party, or putting together a charity fundraiser, Belle Meade Winery has a number of unique elegant atmospheres to offer. With an onsite culinary team and world class hospitality, your next event won’t be soon forgotten! 615.356.6164 | www.bellemeadewinery.com

Dive into the art of pairing food and wine, learn to craft a classic bourbon cocktail, or sit back and indulge in our culinary team’s latest creations! Join us seven days a week for an unforgettable experience.

FOR THE WIN

Fabio Viviani’s flavorful menu, rooftop views, and spa escapes make Wind Creek Chicago Southland a hit

Written by Melissa Mahanes / Photos Courtesy of Wind Creek Chicago Southland

Wind Creek Chicago Southland has ushered in a new era for the Southland region, transforming what many once knew primarily as a gaming venue into a polished, full-service resort that combines elevated dining, refined wellness offerings, and contemporary accommodations. Its expansion, culminating in the April 2025 opening of the hotel and spa, marks the debut of a destination designed as much for relaxation and culinary exploration as for gaming.

At the heart of this transformation is a partnership with renowned chef and hospitality visionary Fabio Viviani, whose involvement has dramatically raised the resort’s profile. Viviani’s culinary presence infuses the property with a cosmopolitan energy, giving visitors a dining experience that feels at home in any culinary capital.

The crown jewel of Wind Creek’s dining program is Alto, the signature steakhouse perched atop the 17th floor. Here, guests are welcomed into a space that feels both contemporary and warm, with design elements that frame views of downtown Chicago’s sweeping skyline. Viviani’s menu blends Italian sensibility with classic steakhouse structure, creating dishes that

are refined yet approachable. Dry-aged beef, pistachio-crusted lamb chops, and vibrant interpretations of pastas and seafood highlight Alto’s sophistication. The restaurant’s atmosphere is equally compelling, making it an ideal setting for anniversaries, celebratory dinners, or simply an indulgent night out in a space that truly feels like an escape.

For those seeking more casual fare, the resort delivers breadth without compromising quality. Food Bazaar by Fabio Viviani offers a lively, all-inclusive culinary marketplace featuring multiple prepared-to-order concepts under one roof, from comforting Italian favorites to fresh seafood, Mexican specialties, and classic American dishes. The variety makes it a favorite stop for families, groups, or guests popping in between spa appointments and shopping excursions. Additional restaurants, including the energetic oyster and seafood bar Shuck It and the Asian-inspired Ivory Noodle Bar, provide a diverserange of flavors without leaving the property. Whether settling in for a luxurious multicourse dinner or grabbing a quick bite, the dining offerings at Wind Creek are thoughtfully curated and consistently elevated.

As much as Wind Creek Chicago Southland has leaned into culinary ambition, its spa and accommodations provide an equally compelling reason to visit. The 16-story hotel tower features more than 250 guestrooms and 43 suites, offering a serene retreat for overnight stays, weekend escapes, or extended getaways. Rooms are outfitted with clean-lined contemporary décor, spacious layouts, and restful palettes designed to encourage unwinding after a day of exploring the resort or the surrounding region.

Located one floor below Alto, the Spa at Wind Creek spans more than 11,000 square feet and was conceptualized to create a sanctuary-like environment above the bustle. The spa features a full suite of treatment rooms, including spaces dedicated to massages, facials, and body therapies. A thermal suite enhances the experience, complete with sauna, experiential shower, whirlpool tub, and relaxing lounge spaces. Guests often wander from a morning massage to an unhurried lunch at the Food Bazaar or ascend to Alto for a late dinner, underscoring how seamlessly the property blends wellness and culinary indulgence.

Though the resort continues to offer an expansive 70,000-squarefoot gaming floor—featuring over 1,400 slot machines, 56 table games, a poker room, and a forthcoming sportsbook—the true story of Wind Creek’s reimagining lies in its commitment to being more than a casino. The shift toward becoming a destination

resort is evident in the investment in its spa, the sophistication of the dining program, and the amenities that enhance longer stays. A modern fitness center, an indoor pool, flexible event and meeting spaces, and convenient on-site parking with EV charging all contribute to the property’s broader hospitality mission.

The emergence of Wind Creek Chicago Southland is significant for the region. Historically, the Southland has not been known for upscale hotels and dining options, often yielding to downtown Chicago’s gravitational pull. This resort changes that dynamic. With Viviani’s culinary vision, a thoughtfully designed spa, and a hotel experience that balances style with comfort, Wind Creek stands as a compelling new alternative—one that offers the conveniences of proximity with the pleasures of escape.

In its entirety, the resort strikes a delicate but successful balance between vibrancy and tranquility, indulgence and ease. Guests may come for a celebratory dinner at Alto, a rejuvenating spa day, or a weekend retreat that feels worlds away from daily routines.

Regardless of the reason, Wind Creek Chicago Southland delivers an atmosphere of elevated hospitality that reflects a new chapter for the region. sl

Wind Creek Chicago Southland / 17300 South Halsted Street, East hazel Crest, IL 60429 (866) 946-3361 / windcreek.com/chicagosouthland Instagrams: @wcsouthland, @altosteakhouse, @wcsouthlandspa

THE HEART OF MIDDLE TENNESSEE Heart Gala: Where Our Community Works in Harmony

Written by Sophie Marini / Photos Courtesy of Middle Tennessee Heart Association

The measure of a good year isn’t the number of gala attendees— it’s the lives changed because this community decided to act. The Heart of Middle Tennessee campaign is a year-round commitment that engages companies, civic leaders, and families to make a lasting impact across four essential chambers of work: Discovery, Advocacy, Access, and Knowledge. Together, these chambers power a healthier future for everyone who calls Middle Tennessee home.

This is more than a fundraising event. It is a blueprint for sustainable change. Since the American Heart Association’s founding in 1924, deaths from cardiovascular diseases have been cut in half.

The numbers tell a story our community cannot ignore. Nearly one in three adults in Middle Tennessee has high blood pressure, almost half face limited access to healthy food, and 19 percent smoke. Most striking, life expectancy can differ by 15 years between neighborhoods just miles apart. The Heart of Middle Tennessee is here to close these gaps, change the future of health, and be the progress that ensures longer, healthier lives.

Here’s how the four chambers translate into impact you can see and join:

• Discovery: Through local investment, the Heart Association has funded more than $4 million in Middle Tennessee research, underwriting discoveries that lead to better treatment, prevention, and improved outcomes for families across our region.

• Knowledge: Knowledge transforms bystanders into lifesavers. This year, volunteers taught Hands-Only CPR and provided blood pressure screenings to more than 1,000 employees and community members, meeting people where they are—whether in offices, at events, or at community centers. Across schools, 5,000 students learned Hands-Only CPR and stroke signs, embedding lifesaving skills in the next generation.

• Advocacy: Policy changes are the quiet victories that endure. Recent legislative successes expanded paid caregiver leave for more than 43,000 state employees, enabled self-measured blood pressure monitoring for all pregnant women covered by TennCare, and defeated a bill that would have reduced tobacco tax revenue by an estimated $738,000, preserving resources and public-health protections. Locally, the Heart Association helped advance smoke-free policies and emergency response protocols— system changes that scale impact beyond any single program.

• A ccess: Access brings health within reach. This year, the team placed 20 new blood-pressure check stations across the community and expanded “Libraries with Heart,” allowing neighbors to check out clinically validated monitoring kits like a book—complete with education and referrals—so hypertension can be recognized and managed at home. For communities facing food insecurity, the Heart Association is providing education, resources, and support to make hearthealthy choices more accessible every day.

The Heart Gala is more than just one evening; it’s a testament to what happens when a community comes together with purpose. Stories like the Marshalls’ remind us why this mission matters: three generations whose lives were changed through early detection and evidence-based care. These stories are not rare; they are the threads that stitch Middle Tennessee together.

On February 21, at the JW Marriott, the Heart Gala invites us to write the next chapter. It’s a celebration of progress, a call to action, and a chance to stand with neighbors, leaders, and friends to ensure health and hope reach every corner of our community. When you join us, you’re not just attending an event; you’re fueling research, advocacy, education, and access that save lives every day.

Action is what drives change in Middle Tennessee. It’s underwriting research that will shape care for years to come. It’s making CPR certification a standard practice. It’s opening doors so blood-pressure stations, nutrition initiatives, and school programs reach the neighborhoods where they matter most. It’s ensuring every family has access to lifesaving resources and care, no matter their ZIP code.

Join the mission your way. Whether you host an employee screening, champion policy, or simply ensure your family and staff are CPR-ready, the Heart of Middle Tennessee offers a tailored path to meaningful, visible impact. As a community that prides itself on hospitality and heart, we have the opportunity and responsibility to ensure that health and hope reach everyone, everywhere.

The invitation is simple: lend your voice, your influence, and your presence. Help us close the gaps between neighborhoods and health disparities among them. When the four chambers of our community work in harmony, Middle Tennessee doesn’t just beat—it thrives. sl

SOPHISTICATED SOCIETY

Presented by

January

–1/4 Holiday Lights at Cheekwood

–2/8 Zoolumination at Nashville Zoo

7 TedxNashville’s evening with Mayor Freddie O’Connell

11 TIFF Pop Takeover with Tiffany at Monthaven Arts & Cultural Center at 6:00pm 17 Hope Smiles’ Free Dental Day at Northfield Church in Gallatin

17-2/15 The Art of Love:The Paintings and Sculptures of Polly Cook and Somers Randolph at Monthaven Arts & Cultural Center 17-18 Monster Jam 2026 at Bridgestone Arena

19 MLK Day 2026: Five Years of Preserving the American Soundtrack at National Museum of African Music 20-25 Les Miserables at TPAC’s Jackson Hall (various times) 22, 24 Nashville Opera’s The Girl of the Golden West at The Fisher Center for the Performing Arts at 7:30pm

26-2/1 Hot Chicken Week at various locations

1/29-4/26 In Her Place: Nashville Artists in the Twenty-First Century at Frist Art Museum

1/29-4/26 Sistah Griot:The Iconoclastic Art of Barbara Bullock at Frist Art Museum

31 Family Day at TPAC

31-3/8 Orchids at Cheekwood

31-6/21 Common Ground:The Hainsworth Collection in Conversation with Cheekwood’s Permanent Collection at Cheekwood

February

1 Jiselle Lauren Foundation’s Sparkle for Smiles at 14TENN at 6:30pm 6, 11 + 13, Afternoon Teas at Cheekwood from 3:00pm-4:30pm at Cafe 29

18 + 20, 25 + 27

3-8 Six:The Musical at TPAC’s Jackson Hall (various times)

5, 12, 19, 26 A Tour and Tea at Cheekwood at 2:00pm

5-22 Studio Tenn’s Deathtrap at Turner Theater in The Factory at Franklin (various times)

7 Ruby Gala at Marathon Music Works

8 The Next Door Recovery’s 2nd Annual Love Big Shop Small at Blackstone Brewing Company from 2:00pm-4:00pm

8 Grand Kyiv Ballet’s Swan Lake at Ryman Auditorium at 6:30pm

12 Heritage Music Series:T.G. Sheppard at Monthaven Arts & Cultural Center at 6:00pm 13-15, 19-22 Nashville REP and Nashville Shakespeare Festival’s Fat Ham at TPAC’s Johnson Theater (various times)

20 + 27 Book ‘em Read Me Days

21 Middle Tennessee Heart Gala at JW Marriott Nashville

21-4/5 From the Moulin Rouge to Music City:The Graphics of Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec at Monthaven Arts & Cultural Center

25 Park Center’s How About Dinner and a Movie? at Belcourt Theatre

27-3/1 Nashville Ballet’s Swan Lake at TPAC’s Jackson Hall (various times)

26 Goldfinch Foundation’s Race Packet Pickup Party for Into the Light Sunrise 5K from 4:00pm-7:00pm at Percy Warner Golf Course Shelter 2/26-5/31 The Impressionist Revolution: Monet to Matisse from the Dallas Museum of Art at Frist Art Museum

27 Nashville Wine Auction’s Wined Up! + Collectors’ Showcase at City Winery at 6:00pm

28 Nashville Wine Auction’s Pairing: Dinner and Live Auction at Loews Vanderbilt Hotel at 6:00pm

28 Nashville Humane Association’s Unleashed: Dinner with Your Dog at Hilton Downtown Nashville at 6:00pm 28 Nashville Opera’s 32nd Annual La Bella Notte at Omni Nashville Hotel at 6:00pm February United Way’s Young Leaders Society “Unlabeled”

March

1 The Goldfinch Foundation’s Into the Light Sunrise 5K at 5:30am at Steeplechase Grandstand, Percy Warner Park

3 Second Harvest Chef’s Dinner at Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery benefiting The Grocery Rescue Program

3-8 Suffs at TPAC’s Jackson Hall (various times)

7 Ballet Ball at Schermerhorn Symphony Center

Co-Chairs: Lisa Manning, Julie Schneider + Neil Krugman

13 Nashville Bel Canto Foundation’s Piazza Italia at 5:00pm

INTERFAITH DENTAL

Interfaith Dental hosted its annual Story Behind the Smiles Breakfast at Geodis Park, honoring Dentists of Distinction and showcasing the impact of its work. Guests heard powerful testimonials from individuals whose lives have been transformed by the high-quality, accessible oral healthcare provided by Interfaith Dental and its partner organizations. (October 21)

LIGHT THE NIGHT

by

Blood Cancer United (formerly The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society) hosted its annual Light the Night celebration at First Horizon Park. The moving lantern ceremony illuminated the night in tribute to those touched by cancer—bringing communities together to honor loved ones lost, celebrate survivors, and shine hope toward a future of cures. (October 23)

RED DOOR BASH

The Omni Nashville Hotel set the stage for Gilda’s Club Middle Tennessee’s 2026 Red Door Bash, an inspiring evening honoring the strength and spirit of those impacted by cancer. Guests gathered in support of Gilda’s Club’s mission to provide hope, connection, and free emotional support services to anyone navigating a cancer journey. (October 25)

GALA

Nashville’s philanthropic community gathered at the Alive Hospice Gala for an evening of reflection, recognition and support. Guests enjoyed an elegant program honoring the legacy of compassionate end-of-life care and the dedicated caregivers who serve patients and families across Middle Tennessee. Proceeds from the gala will strengthen Alive Hospice’s mission and ensure its vital programs continue to flourish. (November 4)

MAHJONG WITH FRIENDS

Mahjong with Friends hosted a lively fundraiser on November 6 at the Hilton in Green Hills, bringing players together for an evening of games, cocktails, and connections. Guests filled reserved tables to play and socialize while supporting Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt. The event blended friendly competition with a meaningful cause, creating a spirited and memorable night. (November 6)

SFS KICKOFF

BOLD HEARTS

Nashville came together for the American Heart Association’s Bold Hearts event at Earl Swensson Associates, celebrating survivors, honoring caregivers, and celebrate the raising of $69,580 for heart and brain health. The evening highlighted inspiring personal stories and recognized local leaders making an impact in Middle Tennessee, uniting the community in support of longer, healthier lives. (November 11)

HAL’S STEAKHOUSE

Hal’s The Steakhouse — downtown Nashville’s go-to destination for fine dining, exceptional service, and expertly prepared steaks — celebrated its first anniversary in style with a lively cocktail party. Hosted in Hal’s private dining space on the second floor of the restaurant, the party brought together more than 100 community leaders, tastemakers, and VIPs for a festive evening. Guests sipped an assortment of classic cocktails, like Hal’s espresso martini and old-fashioned, and wine, while sampling some of Hal’s most famous dishes, including the filet mignon, beef carpaccio, lamb chops, and lobster le’beaux. (November 13)

MUSCLE SHOALS

The Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum celebrates the legendary sounds of Muscle Shoals, spotlighting the iconic Alabama studio scene that shaped hits for artists from Aretha Franklin to The Rolling Stones. The new exhibit invites visitors to explore the history, stories, and music that made Muscle Shoals a cultural and musical phenomenon. (November 13)

BAL D’HIVER

by

The 75th Annual Bal d’Hiver Charity Gala was held at the Nashville City Club,

decades of leadership and service. Guests enjoyed a seated dinner, dancing, a silent auction and recognition of outstanding women — raising $15,000 in support of causes that uplift women and children across Middle Tennessee.

NUTCRACKER TEA

Nashville Ballet’s Nutcracker Tea was held at The Fisher Center, delighting young guests with a festive afternoon inspired by the beloved holiday ballet. Families enjoyed sweets, holiday treats, and special appearances from Nutcracker characters, creating a charming and whimsical celebration that marked the start of the season. (November 23)

CENTENNIAL CIRCLE

Centennial Park Conservancy welcomed members of the Centennial Circle to the 3rd Annual Centennial Circle Dinner. Guests enjoyed at cocktails among Alan LeQuire’s Goddess in Progress, dined upstairs in the Naos, and later experienced a preview of Mythic, with performers Mamie Parris and Annalise Scarpaci. (December 1)

SOPHISTICATED GIVING

The 4th Annual Launch Party for Sophisticated Giving, presented by The Patton Foundation, took place at the National Museum of African American Music. Representatives from 65 participating organizations gathered to enjoy holiday cocktails and bites while picking up copies of the Charity Register, celebrating the season of giving and community connection. (November 18)

SPARKLING SETTINGS

The Horticultural Society of Middle Tennessee’s annual Sparkling Settings luncheon brought a festive holiday spirit at Cheekwood’s Botanical Hall. Guests enjoyed elegant table settings, sparkling décor, and a celebratory atmosphere, all while supporting the Society’s educational programs and efforts to enhance Middle Tennessee’s gardens and green spaces. (December 1)

FOLDS OF HONOR

Folds of Honor’s Heroes and Holidays event at Jet Linx Nashville brought together supporters for a festive evening honoring families of fallen and disabled service members. Guests enjoyed a lively Wine and Bourbon Pull, an engaging Silent Auction, and a memorable performance by Phil Vassar. The night blended seasonal cheer with meaningful camaraderie, all in support of scholarships for military families. (December 4)

The Tennessee Innocence Project brought together supporters for an inspiring evening dedicated to advancing justice for the wrongfully convicted. Guests gathered to hear powerful stories, learn about the organization’s ongoing work, and raise vital funds to support case investigations and legal advocacy. (December 5)

FIFTH THIRD AT THE BLUEBIRD

Fifth Third entertained clients at their annual Evening at the

After an introduction to the

and

from

SYMPHONY BALL PATRON PARTY

The Symphony Ball Patron Party, held at Belle Meade Country Club was an evening with elegance and excitement, bringing together supporters of the Symphony for a night of conversation, cocktails, and camaraderie. Guests mingled in a sophisticated setting with previews of the gala to come, all while celebrating the Symphony’s mission to inspire and enrich the community through world-class orchestral performances. (December 3)

SYMPHONY BALL

RAISING THE BAR

A new beauty spot brings stress-free glamour

Written by Melissa Mahanes / Photos Courtesy of Musea Makeup Bar

Musea Makeup Bar is poised to redefine Nashville’s beauty landscape as the city’s first dedicated makeup bar, bringing celebrity-level glam to an approachable, empowering studio setting. Founded by celebrity makeup artist Dorka Jones and beauty entrepreneur Ashley Snell, Musea offers an elevated experience rooted in artistry, confidence, and connection. Clients can choose from a curated menu of signature looks, including Natural Glam, Soft Glam, Bold Glam, and Bridal Glam, as well as men’s grooming services, all designed to help guests feel like the most confident versions of themselves for any occasion.

Nashville was selected as Musea’s flagship market, a decision driven by the city’s vibrant creative community and growing

demand for accessible luxury. Each appointment is intentionally crafted to feel seamless and stress-free, blending expert technique with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Every artist on the team is either a celebrity makeup artist or has been trained by Jones, ensuring a consistent standard of refined, modern artistry.

With plans to expand to Miami, Houston, and Atlanta in 2026, Musea is positioning itself as the next national beauty franchise, offering memberships, exclusive events, and a fresh approach to glam that resonates with today’s beauty consumer. Let Musea make you their muse! sl

Musea Makeup Bar / 409 11th Avenue North, Nashville, TN 37203 / 689.312.1291

Hours: Monday-Wednesday 10:00am-6:00pm, Thursday-Saturday 8:00am-6:00pm

Appointments: museamakeupbar.com / Instagram: @museamakeupbar