Lee Michaels Spring/Summer 2026

SCULPTED CABLE COLLECTION ON EIZA GONZÁLEZ

FOUNDER AND CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

Lee Michael Berg

PRESIDENTS

Ryan Berg, Scott Berg, Chad Berg

CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER

Jane Harrington

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

Johnny Tate

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Andrew Brown

VICE PRESIDENT OF MERCHANDISING AND MARKETING

Steve Rennhoff

ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING

Amy Graham Hughes

CREATIVE DEPARTMENT

Andrea Barbier, Mariella Brochard, Courtney Odenheimer, Emma Peneguy

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Rita Guarna

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Stephen Vitarbo

SENIOR ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Darius Amos

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Kirsten Meehan

CONTRIBUTING

EDITORS

Christen Fisher, Vivienne Forsyth

PUBLISHER

Lizette Chin

ADVERTISING/PRODUCTION SERVICES

Penny Boag, Griff Dowden, Chris Ferrante, Jacquelynn Fischer, Catherine Rosario

ACCOUNTING

Kasie Carleton, Urszula Janeczko, Steven Resnick

PUBLISHED BY Wainscot Media

CHAIRMAN

Carroll V. Dowden

PRESIDENT & CEO

Mark Dowden

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENTS

Edward R. Burns, Lizette Chin, Thomas Flannery, Rita Guarna

VICE PRESIDENTS

Nigel Edelshain, Noelle Heffernan, Maria Regan, Steven Resnick

IWC Ingenieur. Form und Technik.

Ingenieur Automatic 35, Ref. 3249

It’s no secret that some engineers have slimmer wrists than others. So, for them, we’ve created the new Ingenieur Automatic 35. We housed it in a case measuring 35 millimeters in diameter, paying particular attention to the proportions of the case, bezel and bracelet to guarantee perfect ergonomics and wearability. Despite its compact dimensions, this model has all the design features you’d expect of an IWC Ingenieur, such as Gérald Genta’s unmistakable artistic signature, a bezel with five screws and a grid-patterned dial. Which goes to show that caliber is often more than a question of mere size.

This spring, we are reminded how much there is to celebrate, not only in the season itself, but in the continued growth of the Lee Michaels family and the relationships that mean so much to us.

We are proud to welcome 15 new American Gem Society Registered Jewelers to our team, bringing our total to 70, a meaningful milestone that reflects the depth of talent within our organization and reinforces our steadfast commitment to expertise, integrity, and excellence in everything we do.

Over the past year, we completed a remarkable transformation of our Ridgeland, Mississippi store, unveiling a refined modern design and proudly reintroducing Rolex this spring to our clients.

The months ahead promise exciting enhancements for both our team and our clients. Our Lafayette store will undergo a thoughtful refresh to further elevate the experience in every detail. In Baton Rouge, we are building a new state-of-the-art watchmaking shop, with a full store refresh planned in the coming years.

Behind the scenes, we have outgrown our corporate office and will soon relocate to a new space designed to better support our associates and thoughtfully position our company for continued growth.

Each of these investments is made with you in mind. They reflect our long-term confidence in the communities we serve and in the meaningful relationships we are privileged to share. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your celebrations, your milestones, and your everyday moments.

We look forward to welcoming you in this season and beyond.

With gratitude,

Welcome to the Club

Patek Philippe enthusiasts enjoyed an exclusive club atmosphere as we celebrated the Cubitus Collection in Baton Rouge.

Cartier's Red Carpet Moment

We rolled out the red carpet to celebrate the introduction of Cartier watches to our New Orleans market.

Dining in Style

A striking violin performance set the scene for a Bejeweled Ball at the New Orleans Museum of Art, where we celebrated fresh collections from David Yurman, Roberto Coin and more.

Better Together

From holiday gatherings and golden-hour soirées, to release parties and charity galas—every occasion is another opportunity to celebrate the communities we cherish.

Love at First Serve

Lee Michaels had the privilege of hosting a select group of clients for an unforgettable tennis experience at both the Laver Cup in San Francisco and the US Open in New York City. In partnership with Rolex, our guests enjoyed world-class matches, exceptional hospitality, and rare behind-the-scenes moments that brought them closer to the sport at its highest level. It was a celebration of precision, performance, and enduring excellence both on and off the court.

STORE LOCATIONS

We invite you to visit any one of our nine locations to experience an extraordinary selection of beautiful jewelry and timepieces.

Moment to Shine

These pieces elevate any look, making you feel polished and unmistakably stylish.

David Yurman

Guided by a philosophy of effortlessly wearable art, David Yurman remains a powerhouse in American luxury. Founded by David, a sculptor, and his wife Sybil, a painter, the iconic jewelry house blends sculptural forms with vibrant color. At the heart of the brand is its signature Cable—the twisted helix that has captivated collectors since its introduction in 1982. In Cable Flex® designs, the form evolves with state-ofthe-art flexibility and iconic motifs, like Buckle and X. Embellished with subtle Cable accents, DY Mercer® designs are inspired by the boundless creativity of New York City, David and Sybil’s hometown. Vibrant gemstones are cut with unique facets and bezel-set in precious metals—a striking complement to the collection’s signature sculptural links.

Clockwise from top left: 8-12.5mm Mercer Convert Necklace Diamonds in Sterling Silver and 14K Gold; Mercer 2-Row Drop Earrings with Prasiolite; 6mm Cablespira Flex X Bracelet Diamonds in 18K Gold; 6mm Cable Flex Buckle Bracelet Diamonds in Sterling Silver and 14K Gold; Mercer Multi2-Stone Ring with Topaz and Diamonds; 10mm Mercer Stone Ring with Topaz in 18K Gold.

Roberto Coin

With every creation, Roberto Coin invites you into a world where history, culture and nature converge as transportive, wearable art. Let the imagination drift to the palaces of Venice, the inspiration for the Venetian Princess collection, whose iconic floret motif blooms with a perfect colorful gem. Wander next through the romantic streets of Verona with the Love In Verona collection, where sleek enamel surfaces beckon the touch and modern minimalism is infused with timeless heritage. For something softer, the Principessa collection unfolds with quiet romance—delicate petals rendered in glowing gold, capturing femininity at its most refined.

Clockwise from left: 18K Rose Gold Venetian Princess Carnival Pavé Diamond and Mixed Stones (Blue Topaz, Citrine, Rubellite and Tanzanite) Large Open Flower Necklace; 18K Rose Gold Venetian Princess Carnival Pavé Diamond and Mixed Stones (Tanzanite, Blue Topaz, Rubellite and Citrine) Double Flower Climber Earrings; 18K Rose Gold Venetian Princess Carnival Pavé Diamond and Mixed Stones (Tanzanite, Blue Topaz, Rubellite and Citrine) Large Triple Flower Ring; 18K Yellow Gold Venetian Medallions Small Diamond and Mother of Pearl Reversible Ring; 18K Yellow Gold Venetian Medallions Small Diamond and Mother of Pearl Necklace; 18K Yellow Gold Principessa Diamond and Flower Link Bracelet; 18K Yellow Gold Venetian Medallions Small Diamond and Black Jade Stud Earrings; 18K Yellow Gold Love In Verona Diamond and Black Enamel Bangle; 18K Yellow Gold Love In Verona Diamond and White Enamel Ring; 18K Yellow Gold Love In Verona Diamond Black Enamel Ring.

Marco Bicego

Steeped in the rich heritage of Italian craftsmanship, Marco Bicego has created signature style that is both instantly nizable and timelessly iconic. The brand’s pieces embody gems like amethyst tourmaline—playful and sophisticated once. The Marrakech collection showcases Marco Bicego’s renowned Coil technique, featuring flowing, organic shapes rendered in radiant 18K gold. For those drawn structure and understated glamour, Siviglia collection offers hand-engraved designs enhanced by delicate diamonds catch the light with effortless grace.

Lariat

Collar

Diamonds; Paradise18K Yellow Gold

Amethyst and Pink Tourmaline; Marrakech 18K Yellow Gold

3-Strand Bangle with Diamonds; Siviglia 18K Yellow Gold Ring with Diamond Pavé.

Mikimoto

Every gem and jewel tells the story of its creation—often forged over millennia beneath the earth’s surface. Pearls, however, enchant in a different way: They carry the narrative of living creatures, of salt and freshwater, each one radiant with a soft, natural glow. Few capture this story as exquisitely as Mikimoto. Since its founding in 1893 by Kokichi Mikimoto, the visionary behind the world’s first cultured pearls, the brand has continued to write new chapters in pearl artistry. From the effortlessly elegant Everyday Essentials collection to the understated brilliance of the Station collection to the shimmering diamond accents and flower motifs of the Morning Dew collection, one thing is certain: Every Mikimoto pearl’s journey culminates in a flawless piece designed to adorn you and your loved ones.

Clockwise from top left: Akoya Station Necklace in 18K Yellow Gold; Akoya Everyday Essentials Cultured Pearl Strand Necklace in 18K Yellow Gold; Akoya Morning Dew Cultured Pearl and Diamond Pendant in 18K Yellow Gold; Akoya Everyday Essentials Cultured and Diamond Earrings in 18K Yellow Gold; Akoya Station Bracelet in 18K Yellow Gold; Akoya Everyday Essentials Cultured Pearl and Diamond Earrings in 18K Yellow Gold.

Kenneth Brown

Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry is proud to unveil the redesigned Ridgeland, Mississippi store, led by acclaimed interior designer Kenneth Brown. Known for his sophisticated, contemporary aesthetic, Brown reimagined the space to reflect a modern vision of luxury while honoring the warmth and hospitality that define the Lee Michaels experience. “My design goal was to transform the stores into a light-filled experience that feels elevated and inviting,” Brown says.

Flooded with natural light from dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows, the new interior allows diamonds and gemstones to shine at their fullest brilliance. Clean architectural lines, luminous materials, and curated displays create a refined yet welcoming atmosphere. As Brown explains, “By introducing tailored architectural lines, luminous materials and a more curated, fashion-forward material palette, the space now reflects a modern, high-end aesthetic, positioning the brand confidently in today ’s luxury market while expanding its emotional appeal.”

This renovation marks the first phase of a next-generation evolution for the Ridgeland location and reflects the broader design direction shaping our brand. This elevated aesthetic was also introduced a couple years ago in our San Antonio stores, creating a more refined and immersive experience across key markets. A second phase, set for Summer 2026, will introduce a fully remodeled Rolex environment and Rolex Certified Pre-Owned timepieces, further reinforcing Lee Michaels’ commitment to exceptional service and the finest luxury offerings.

Above all, the transformation elevates the customer experience, reaffirming Lee Michaels as a premier destination for fine jewelry and timepieces.

and

SUNLIT STYLED

Golden rays, radiant jewels—effortless elegance for sun-soaked days and luminous nights.

FOPE 18K yellow gold and diamond stretch

Going Straight to the Source

For nearly 50 years, the Berg family has traveled the globe, forging relationships with designers and artisans to bring clients jewelry of unparalleled quality, integrity, and value. By Emma Peneguy

BUILDING LASTING VALUE

For nearly 50 years, Lee Michael Berg has traveled the world in search of that one special piece. Long before international travel became common for independent jewelers, Berg understood that the best way to ensure quality, integrity and value was to experience it firsthand. That belief took him across the globe, from New York to Italy, Switzerland, Hong Kong and beyond, forming relationships with designers and manufacturers that would ultimately shape the Lee Michaels brand into what it is today.

Today, Lee’s three sons—Ryan, Scott and Chad—carry that same philosophy forward, traveling annually to the world’s most renowned jewelry and watch destinations. From Vicenza, Italy, known for producing some of the finest gold jewelry in the world; to Geneva, Switzerland, the epicenter of high watchmaking; to Hong Kong for pearls and gemstones; and to India for diamonds, the Berg family continues to invest in relationships that allow them to deliver exceptional pieces with uncommon value.

A FOUNDATION BUILT ON TRUST

In fine jewelry, trust is everything. For Lee Michaels, that trust begins long before a piece ever reaches the showroom.

“Our entire brand is built on trust,” says Lee Michael Berg, founder and chairman of the board. “Our clients trust us to bring them the best in quality and value, and we take that responsibility seriously. That same level of trust has to exist with our partners overseas. If we don’t believe in the craftsmanship or the integrity of the supplier, we won’t put it in our cases.”

Many of those relationships span decades. Lee’s early travels connected him directly with international designers and manufacturers at a time when most retailers relied on intermediaries. Over decades of in-person visits, factory tours and shared business values, those professional relationships became true partnerships.

“The designers we work with aren’t just names to us,” says Scott Berg. “In many cases, they’re people we’ve known for most of our lives. That kind of history creates a level of confidence you just can’t replicate.”

That legacy continues today. While the Bergs still work closely with established designers like David Yurman, Roberto Coin and Marco Bicego, they also seek out new partners who share the same standards of craftsmanship and ethics. Their most recent travels included a visit to Australia, where they toured the Paspaley manufacturing facility, a family-owned company recognized for sustainably sourced pearls and meticulous production.

“We’re always looking for partners who care as much about how something is made as how it looks,” says Ryan Berg. “That attention to detail matters to our clients, and it matters to us.”

SEEING MORE, LEARNING MORE

One of the greatest advantages of traveling directly to manufacturers is education—education that doesn’t stay overseas but comes home with the Bergs and filters through the entire Lee Michaels team.

“Some people don’t realize that so much of what we do is still made by hand,” says Chad Berg. “There’s an art and a science that goes into it. Many of the designers we work with use techniques that have been passed down for generations. When you see that process up close, you gain a much deeper appreciation for the work.”

That firsthand exposure allows the Bergs to evaluate pieces beyond what can be seen in a catalog or photograph. Weight, balance, movement, finish—these details can only be judged in person.

“You can’t fully understand a piece until you hold it,” Chad explains. “How it catches the light, how it feels in your hand, how it moves. Those are things you miss when you’re just looking at images.”

Scott Berg, who focuses heavily on sourcing loose diamonds and gemstones, agrees. “Being there allows us to be extremely selective,”

that meet our standards. That level of selection only happens when you’re on the ground.”

That knowledge is then passed along to Lee Michaels’ client advisors, who are trained not just to sell a piece, but to tell its story.

“Our goal is for clients to leave knowing why their piece is special,” Chad says. “When we understand where it came from and how it was made, our team can share that story with confidence.”

SUPPORTING CRAFTSMANSHIP AND COMMUNITY

Beyond quality and education, the Bergs’ global travels offer something less tangible but equally important: the opportunity to support generational craftsmanship around the world.

“In many of these places, jewelry is the backbone of the local economy,” Chad says. “There are entire regions known for a single craft—Vicenza for gold, Surat for diamond cutting, parts of Thailand for colored gemstones. These industries support families, sometimes for generations.”

As a family-owned business themselves, the Bergs feel a strong connection to those communities.

“We’re working with a lot of small, family-run operations,” says Ryan. “That resonates with us. We understand what it means to protect a legacy and pass something down.”

Chad recalls visiting diamond mines and cutting facilities across multiple continents and witnessing firsthand how interconnected the industr y truly is. “A single piece of jewelry might involve materials and craftsmanship from five or six different countries,” he says. “When you step back and look at it, it’s incredible how many hands have played a role in bringing that piece to life.”

BETTER VALUE, WITHOUT COMPROMISE

Perhaps the most immediate benefit to clients is also one of the simplest: value. By traveling directly to the source, Lee Michaels eliminates unnecessary layers in the supply chain. Rather than buying product from an intermediary seller, the Bergs work directly with the people who design, cut and create each piece.

"We’re focused on bringing in the best of the best, pieces we’re proud to stand behind."

- RYAN BERG

“When you remove the middleman, you’re able to offer a sharper value,” Scott explains. “That doesn’t mean cutting corners. It means being intentional about where your dollars go.”

That approach allows Lee Michaels to offer pieces that are both distinctive and competitively priced—an uncommon combination in the fine jewelr y world.

“We’re not trying to be everything to everyone,” Ryan says. “We’re focused on bringing in the best of the best, pieces we’re proud to stand behind.”

CARRYING THE LEGACY FORWARD

At its core, the Berg family’s approach hasn’t changed much over the past four decades. It all comes down to showing up, asking questions and caring deeply about the work.

“Our dad really instilled in us that relationships matter,” Ryan says. “Not just for business, but for doing things the right way.”

As Lee Michaels looks to the future, that philosophy remains firmly in place. Annual trips continue. New partnerships are formed. Old ones are strengthened. And with each journey, the Bergs reaffirm what has always set them apart: a commitment to quality, integrity and value that begins at the source and ends with the client.

In an industry driven by trust, that commitment makes all the difference.

MODERN CLASSICS the

Diamonds are reimagined in sculptural frames of gold, where the bezel setting creates a look that is smooth, secure and strikingly contemporary. The result is minimal, luminous and endlessly wearable.

Left page: Bezel-set diamond cuff bracelets. Solitaire bezel-set diamond necklaces. Four-row bezel-set diamond ring.

Right page: Mixed shape bezel-set diamond drop earrings. Mixed shape bezel-set diamond tennis necklace. Oval and emerald cut diamond line bracelets in bezel setting.

Tickled Pink

A celebration in shades of blush and bold pink, where gemstones and radiant dials bring a playful energy to fine jewelry. From soft rose hues to vivid magenta, each piece adds a pop of personality. Think feminine, fresh and irresistibly chic.

Polished to Perfection

Luminous gold, finished to a mirror-like glow, meets the restrained brilliance of diamonds. The look is sleek, confident, and intentionally minimal. A study in modern luxury.

Bezel-set Beauties

A pop of color, a flash of gold, and the smooth finish of a bezel setting—everything about this look feels bright and carefree. Designed to layer, wear, and love in the warm months ahead. It's fresh, fun and unmistakably modern.

Necklaces: Blue topaz and lemon quartz necklaces with diamonds in 14K gold; Earrings: Blue topaz and lemon quartz earrings with diamonds in 14K gold; Dome rings: Topaz and diamond ring, peridot and diamond ring, and topaz ring with accent peridot and diamonds, all 18K gold; Bands: Blue topaz and amethyst bands in 14K gold.

Elegance for All

Precise and refined as well as lovely, Patek Philippe’s newest Twenty-4 is a watch that is second to none. By Christen Fisher

In 1999, Patek Philippe stood once again at the forefront of luxury Swiss watchmaking when it launched its first-ever exclusively feminine watch collection. Designed to be worn by the classic yet modern woman anywhere from the office to the theater to a quiet evening at home, the Twenty~4 lived up to its name, appropriate at any hour of the day. First presented as an Art Deco-inspired rectangular quartz watch with a “manchette” or cuff design, the Twenty~4 has evolved into an iconic collection that since 2018 has included a round, automatic version and, as of 2025, the first-ever grand complication, the Twenty~4 Perpetual Calendar. Each version is a highly contemporary timepiece created to accompany every moment of the eclectic and vibrant lifestyle of today’s woman.

The original Twenty~4 model features a rectangular, two-tier, cambered case designed to trace the contours of the wrist. It is highlighted by two rows of diamonds and presented on an integrated, cambered bracelet with a fold-over clasp adorned with the Calatrava cross. The stainless-steel version is offered with a sunburst blue, gray or olive-green dial with applied hour markers and numerals as well as elegantly rounded baton hands, all in white gold with white luminescent coating. The rose-gold version, released in 2024 to mark the 25th anniversary of the Twenty~4, features a unique and stunning purple lacquer dial embossed with a concentric wave motif. Its applied hour markers, numerals and rounded, baton-style hands are rendered in rose gold with a white luminescent coating. Both the stainless steel and the rose-gold versions are powered by the E 15 quartz movement and are waterproof to 30 meters.

In 2018, Patek debuted an automatic version of its iconic Twenty~4 watch, this time in a 36-millimeter, round case high-

lighted by a double row of diamonds arranged in a “Dentelle” setting.

Available in steel with a blue, gray or olive-green sunburst dial featuring white-gold applied numerals and rounded, baton-style hands with a white luminescent coating, the automatic Twenty~4 also features a date window at 6 o’clock. Presented on a stainlesssteel bracelet with a fold-over clasp, the watch is powered by the self-winding 26-330 S C caliber movement with sweep seconds and date, viewable through the watch’s sapphire crystal caseback. Additionally, there is a rose-gold version offered with either a rich brown sunburst dial or a silvery dial enhanced by a vertical and horizontal, brushed finish reminiscent of shantung silk fabric.

In 2025, Patek Philippe introduced the very first complication within the Twenty~4 collection: the Twenty~4 Perpetual Calendar. Powered by the ultra-thin, self-winding movement caliber 240 Q with day, date, month, leap year, moon phase and 24-hour indication by hands, the Twenty~4 Perpetual Calendar boasts an elegantly slim, 36-millimeter, rose-gold case with a sapphire crystal caseback. It is offered with either a silvery shantung finish or a sunburst, olivegreen dial, both with rose-gold applied numerals and rounded, baton-style hands with a white luminescent coating. The calendar indications are displayed across three subdials and an aperture for the moon phase that together comprise the iconic Patek PerpetualCalendar watch face. This special watch is presented on a rose-gold bracelet with fold-over clasp.

Classic yet modern, bold yet subtle, the Twenty~4 collection is designed for today’s ever-evolving modern woman. And watch out—she’s just getting started.

Opposite page, top left: the rose gold quartz with purple dial is 25th anniversary edition; Top right: The round rose gold with silvery shantung dial is the new Perpetual Calendar version; bottom right: The round rose gold with olive-green dial is the other colorway of the new Perpetual Calendar version; bottom left: The standard stainless-steel quartz with olive-green dial.

"It's all about the part jewelry plays in your life."

- LEE MICHAEL BERG

Treasures for Generations

From cherished pieces passed down to him, to designs made to endure for generations, our founder’s collection tells a story of legacy and elegance.

For Lee Michael Berg, jewelry has never been simply about what you wear; it has always been about what you carry forward. Raised in a family of retailers, he grew up immersed in the rhythm of business and the importance of relationships long before he ever opened the doors to Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry. His grandfather owned Levine's, a remarkable network of 120 department stores across the South. From him came not only an entrepreneurial spirit, but a lasting understanding that the most meaningful possessions are those tied to memory, milestone, and family.

“It’s all about the part jewelry plays in your life,” Lee says. That belief is reflected in the pieces he treasures most—objects that mark defining moments, honor legacy, and connect one generation to the next.

For more than four decades, he has carried the same money clip, a gift from his grandfather in the 1970s that he has cherished ever since. Over time, it came to represent far more than its original purpose. Lee later had matching clips created for Ryan, Scott, and Chad, each of whom carries one today, and commissioned seven more for his grandsons, along with a bracelet of coins for his granddaughter to receive one day. These are not simply gifts; they are symbols of continuity, waiting for the right moment to be passed on.

Another constant are the gold and diamond cufflinks that once belonged to his grandfather. Worn proudly, they offer a quiet connection across decades—a way to bring the past into the present at every important occasion.

In 2018, when Lee placed the future of the company into the hands of the next generation by gifting stock to his sons, they marked the moment with

a watch worthy of the occasion. A Rolex Daytona was placed on his wrist, an expression of gratitude, celebration, and the shared journey that brought them to that day. It was a symbol of evolution: the next chapter for a family business built together.

Among Lee’s most thoughtfully pursued treasures are three Patek Philippe pocket watches, each acquired with intention and each destined for one of his sons. He spent years bringing them together, knowing they would one day become part of their stories, just as his grandfather’s pieces became part of his own.

In many ways, these heirlooms mirror the journey of Lee Michaels itself, a business built on family, guided by shared values, and entrusted from one generation to the next. Today, Lee continues to work alongside his sons, sharing his experience, his vision, and his passion for the relationships that have always been at the heart of the company. The watches and jewelry he holds dear are more than cherished possessions; they are chapters in a living story, one that is still being written, together, and one that will continue for generations to come.

Charms and Medallions

Crafted with meticulous artistry, these masterpieces carry the weight of meaning, marking milestones, memories, and moments that define your journey. Layer them, mix them, and wear them close. Every piece becomes a personal narrative, a symbol of identity, and a testament to refined taste.

Donna Saurage and Community Coffee, Two Stories with Heart

Brewing legacy and leadership—how Donna Saurage carried Community Coffee’s heart into the future

By Karen B. Gibbs

Coffee with heart. That’s a fitting description of the Saurage family’s Community Coffee Company, LLC.

It’s certainly what drove its founder Henry Norman “Cap” Saurage to begin selling his “especially good tasting” coffee to customers in 1919.

Cap was an honest-to-goodness “people person.” The name of his Full Weight Store attests to his reputation for having accurate scales and giving customers the full weight of product they purchased. He brewed his special blend of coffee for customers to enjoy—gratis. Cups of coffee led to conversation and conversation led to a sense of community, hence the name Community Coffee.

Cap believed, “If you buy our product, we need to give you something extra.” In the early days, that meant premiums like cups and saucers taped to coffee packages, and Community Coffee coupons, redeemable for housewares. Today, Community Coffee proofs-of-purchase earn money for schools from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. That generosity extended beyond coffee cups and coupons. One of Cap’s best decisions was giving some shares of company stock to Donna Saurage, the wife of his grandson Norman. Cap was ver y fond of Donna, and those shares were a life-changing gift to her and the company. Prior to that, only blood relatives could own Community Coffee stock. With her own shares, Donna had a voice in the company—something that proved a

blessing to her, Community Coffee and the entire Baton Rouge community.

A BEAUTIFUL PARTNERSHIP

Norman and Donna fell in love while they were in high school. Norman, who was two grades ahead of Donna, attended University High, and Donna went to Baton Rouge High. After Donna graduated from high school, the couple got married and worked for Community Coffee. She was in the accounting department, and he repaired coffeemakers while attending school.

Donna excelled at her job. She was fast, accurate and a smart worker. And she was devoted, working until just a few hours before delivering the couple's first child. Donna stepped away from work to focus on raising her growing family—one that would eventually include five children—while Norman threw himself into learning all facets of the business.

“She invested a lot into the family,” says Matthew, the youngest son. “While dad was focused on work, she was the one who was always there and who enjoyed the dynamics of a large family. It's been a blessing.”

By the time Matthew was 12, he was the only child at home. With more free time, Donna became more active with the Junior League of Baton Rouge. It introduced her to the value of working on boards of charities as an effective way to give

back to the community. She enjoyed serving on these committees and boards and grew in knowledge and expertise. In 1990, the Junior League of Baton Rouge named her Sustainer of the Year for her longterm, exceptional service, leadership and volunteerism.

Though she was focused on charity work, Donna also kept abreast with the business. “Norman would talk about what went on at work,” she remembers. “He used me as a sounding board when he had an issue. I always knew what was going on.”

NORMAN TAKES THE HELM

However, in 1977, something happened that neither Norman nor Donna anticipated. While driving his father, H.N. Saurage, to the hospital for a four-way bypass, Norman received an unexpected promotion. En route, H.N. elected him president. He wanted to make sure the company would continue seamlessly in case he died. (Fortunately, H.N. lived until 2006.)

One of Norman’s immediate challenges as president was a three-year coffee shortage caused by the Brazilian frost of 1975. Impressively, Norman's purchasing and financial decisions allowed the company to weather the crisis without borrowing a penny.

The next year, he tackled another problem: the declining number of coffee drinkers among

20- to 30-year-olds. In 1979, he and Donna went to California to investigate the trending coffee stores that were enticing young people to drink coffee again. These stores sold whole bean coffee, leaf teas, candies, coffeemakers and other coffee-related items. Norman decided Community Coffee would follow suit.

“We came back to Louisiana,” says Donna, “and I worked with a merchandiser to convert our five Premium Stores (where customers traded coupons for merchandise) into Community Coffee Places, high-grade coffee stores like we saw out West.”

In his book, The Community Coffee Story, Norman describes Donna’s contributions: “She led the reconstruction of six locations and handled the design, marketing, store setup, inventory stocking, key personnel recruiting and grand opening events during a few short months in 1980. Her only pay was, ‘Thank you.’ Without Donna, we could not have done it.”

“My role was as a volunteer, although once Norman had the company issue me a check for zero dollars,” Donna reminisces.

By the late 1980s, coffee houses were replacing coffee stores—and Starbucks was planning to open coffee houses in Baton Rouge and New Orleans.

“We knew we had to get up front and pretty well block them, so we decided to go into the coffee house business,” Donna explains. Thus was born

(Clockwise L to R). Norman and Donna loved spending time aboard their sailboat. Norman and Donna on a date as teens. Matt playing piano, as did each of his siblings.

CC’s Coffee House, a separate business that sons Hank and Matt run.

Another wise and gutsy move by Norman was buying out his siblings’ shares of the company. “They had no children and wanted to sell the company,” explains Donna. “We had children and wanted to keep it.”

Logical, yes, but the purchase also incurred huge debt. Norman told employees about the purchase and asked their help to liquidate the debt. In return for great sales, he rewarded workers with profit sharing, something that continues today. Remarkably, the debt was paid off in two-and-a-half years.

LEADING WITH PURPOSE

Life for the Saurage family changed in 2014, when Norman became ill with ALS. “He was only sick for about 14 months before he died,” says Donna. “That’s when Norman said I needed to get my head into the business. Norman prepared his children. Hank and Matt knew they were going to have to take up the mantle of leadership with me.”

Many family businesses fail under such circumstances. “However, when that transition took place,” says Matt, “there was a continuity and steadiness with family, employees and in the company that kept us focused on our business and customers.”

Donna prepared her sons for their leadership roles. “She taught me to be an active listener and a continuous learner,” says Matt. “She also taught me to trust others’ ability to figure it out, get it done, and reach and exceed their potential.”

Donna showed Hank how to run meetings. “Mom starts and ends meetings on time out of respect for people’s time. ‘On time’ is being there early. Plus, at meetings, Mom asks hard, good, thought-provoking questions others are afraid to ask.”

Donna honed these skills while ser ving on the boards of 50 nonprofits over 50 years. A generous donor, she learned the value of “donor-advised funds,” or charitable investment accounts. Donna and the family pooled their donor-advised funds to create the Saurage Family Foundation, which is now a supporting organization of the Baton Rouge Area Foundation (BRAF).

Chris Meyer, CEO and president of BRAF, says, “One of Donna’s great passions is education, especially giving opportunities to kids in our community and beyond who haven't had access to them.” She supports educational choice/public charter schools, Teach For America and the Baton Rouge Youth Coalition.

“Donna has such great acumen for standards for nonprofits and board governance,” Chris continues. “She led a group that worked on our governing documents, bylaws and committee structure. She’s a leader with strong conviction and a very clear moral compass. She brings financial resources and deep experience in running her company and working with nonprofits. Plus, she recruits her friends to contribute. You get more than a check. You get the full package if Donna Saurage is involved.”

Another fan of Donna is Judith Roberson, the vice president for institutional advancement for Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University in Baton Rouge. Donna served on this board for nine years and plans to return next year. She also served as chair of its development committee and mission and governance committee.

“Nobody r uns a meeting like Donna,” says Judith. “She’s very efficient yet effective and understands the value of everybody’s time. She expects board members to come prepared and ready to ask questions. She also believes board members should either give, get others to give, or get off the board.”

To that end, Donna was the catalyst in helping start a mid-level giving program whereby donors make significant contributions that may grow into greater ones. “Philanthropy is in Donna’s heart,” says Judith. “She freely shares what she knows and by her example, she is instrumental in shaping future philanthropists and board members.”

Donna is also fond of the arts. The entire Saurage family has generously supported the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge since day one. When the Council facility needed renovations, Donna and the family greatly helped with fundraising. In gratitude, the building was named the Cary Saurage Community Arts Center in honor of Cary, Donna's brother-in-law and arts patron, who died last year.

Today, the family foundation continues to support BRAF through operational and grant dollars. It also funds the Michael Crespo Award which, since 2012, has awarded a $5000 fellowship annually to a local visual artist.

“Donna is such a respected person in the community. People trust her decision-making and want to follow in her footsteps,” says Jonathan Grimes, president and CEO of the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge. “Without a doubt, there are plenty of sponsors, supporters and corporations that we have because of Donna Saurage.”

Considering her philanthropic history, it should come as no surprise that Donna chairs the Citizenship Committee for the Community Coffee Company. The philanthropic arm focuses giving in four areas:

• Education, with its Cash For Schools program

• Military Match, where customers can buy four pounds of coffee for anyone in the military and the company adds four pounds of coffee and a mug

• Disaster Relief Heroes, which serves fresh coffee to Red Cross, Salvation Army and first responders, in addition to displaced residents

• Sustainability Efforts, which helps Community Coffee's coffee-growers around the world become more successful

The company also gives in-kind donations to others in the community and offers financial help after disasters.

So what’s the why behind the philanthropy of Donna Saurage? “I am rooted in a lifelong Christian faith, and I see stewardship as both a privilege and a duty. I believe we are entrusted with time, resources and influence for a purpose greater than ourselves. It is that conviction that has guided my commitment to serving others and investing in organizations that shape the next generation’s values.”

No doubt, Cap would be proud.

Located in the heart of San Antonio, the Alamo stands as the Shrine of Texas Liberty and is the #1 most visited destination in the State of Texas. We honor the 190th anniversary of the 13-day siege leading up to the Ba le of the Alamo on March 6, 1836 with these commemorative knives. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Alamo Trust to ensure future generations will Remember the Alamo!

Exclusively Limited to 190 Pieces

REMEMBER THE ALAMO PECAN WOOD KNIFE

Commemorative knife featuring wood from the heritage pecan tree that towered over Alamo gardens for roughly 170 years

$2,000 Exclusively Limited to 10 Pieces

VICTORY OR DEATH HAND ENGRAVED KNIFE

$20,000 Commemorative hand engraved knife featuring the iconic Alamo façade with custom Texas Star Damascus Steel blades.

Lee’s Picks

BUTTERFLY JEWELRY

Semi-precious gemstone jewelry starting at $535.

Discover the latest must-have pieces, handpicked by our beloved founder.

14K yellow gold citrine and orange sapphire cocktail ring interspersed with diamonds, $2,450.

DIAMOND

BANGLES

From top to bottom: Yellow gold pavé and bezel diamond bangle, 1.67ctw, $9,850; White gold pavé and bezel diamond bangle, 1.34ctw, $7,450; Yellow gold pavé diamond bangle, 1.80ctw, $7,900.

18K white gold emerald cut diamond in-out hoops, 38mm, 7.54ctw, $24,950.

18K white gold oval diamond in-out hoops, 25mm, 3.73tcw, $13,750.

18K white gold emerald cut diamond in-out hoop earrings, 19mm, 6.51ctw, $35,000.

ROSE GARDEN RING BEE & FLOWER RING

18K white and rose gold flower ring with pink sapphires, green garnets and diamonds, $3,250.

DIAMOND BEE STUD EARRINGS

18K white and yellow gold diamond bee stud earrings, $3,750.

18K gold bee and Flower Ring with pink sapphires and diamonds, $5,250.

BACCARAT HARMONIE TUMBLERS SET

Baccarat Harmonie tumblers Colors of Joy Intense Set, $1,300.

OPENING NEW HORIZONS

With numerous horological achievements to its name, the Oyster Perpetual Land-Dweller is designed for those shaping the world of tomorrow. Rolex begins a new chapter in its history with the Land-Dweller. Fitted with a bracelet that merges seamlessly with the Oyster case, this watch boasts a sleek, bold design and is powered by a cutting-edge movement developed especially for it.

INNOVATION IN MOVEMENT

Calibre 7135 – entirely developed and manufactured in-house – is engineered to beat at a high frequency of 5 hertz, measuring time to a tenth of a second.

Dynapulse escapement

Designed with an innovative architecture and primarily crafted from silicon components, this sequential distribution escapement is truly revolutionary. Very lightweight and highly resistant to shocks and magnetic fields, it offers significantly greater energy efficiency than a Swiss lever escapement.

Dynapulse escapement

State-of-the-art oscillator

State-of-the-art oscillator

The oscillator is resistant to strong magnetic fields, thanks to the materials from which its components are made. It features a Syloxi silicon hairspring, a balance wheel crafted from optimized brass, and a balance staff made of a new high-tech ceramic exclusive to Rolex. Optimized Paraflex shock absorbers enhance the shock resistance of the movement in any position.

A CONTEMPORARY DESIGN

With a resolutely modern touch, the Land-Dweller reinterprets the design of watches featuring integrated bracelets, with its case and bracelet melding perfectly in a smooth continuous line. This meticulously crafted aesthetic strives for perfect harmony of form and proportion.

The Land-Dweller is offered in two diameters, 36 mm and 40 mm. It is also available in a white Rolesor version or in 18 ct Everose gold, both with an intense white dial, or in 950 platinum with an ice blue dial.

FLAT JUBILEE BRACELET

Specially designed for the Land-Dweller, the Flat Jubilee bracelet is a reinterpretation of the emblematic Jubilee bracelet, unveiled at the launch of the Datejust in 1945. This new metal bracelet differs in that all the links are flat. Moreover, the centre links are polished and slightly raised in relation to the outer links. The latter feature a technical satin finish. The polished chamfered top edges of the outer links create a stream of light that continues uninterrupted along the Oyster case and forms a harmonious whole.

Honeycomb motif dial

Framed by an angled flange, this graphic dial is adorned with a honeycomb motif in subtle relief that is created using a high-technology laser. Time-honoured techniques are employed for the dial surface finishings: a fine satin finish for the intense white dial and a sunray finish on the ice blue version. On the versions with a Chromalight display, the open 6 and 9 numerals, and index hour markers with luminescent material that extends the full length of the component, grant the Land-Dweller optimal legibility in any situation.

Rugged for Real

If there’s one thing English actor Tom Hardy isn’t afraid to do, it’s stand out. His watches do it too.

In a Hollywood landscape filled with carefully curated perfection, it’s a pleasure to find someone who brings grizzled grounding and realism to the screen. Actor Tom Hardy, 48, does that—and more. With a hypnotizing charisma, a rugged, everyman charm and an instinct for the strange and wild in cinema, he gives movie viewers the rare sense that they’re going somewhere they’ve never quite been before.

Originally from a London suburb, Hardy made his screen debut 2001 in the acclaimed HBO miniseries Band of Brothers. A few years later he made a home for himself in director Christopher Nolan’s stable of regulars, starting with 2010’s Inception (in which he plays a rakish dream thief), 2012’s The Dark Knight Rises (he’s supervillain Bane) and 2017’s Dunkirk (he’s a World War II pilot).

Want him as a leading man? Check out Mad Max: Fury Road, where his portrayal of the titular Max lends the film gravitas. In something award-winning? See his chilling performance as the antagonist in Oscar darling The Revenant (Hardy got a nomination for Best Supporting Actor). With more creative freedom and the ability to follow his own muse, Hardy reaches for the wacky (his performance as the main hero in the three Venom movies delights audiences with its strangeness), the quirky (in The Bikeriders, which he also produced, he plays a man so inspired by a Marlon Brando movie that he starts a gang) and the gritty (try action flick Havoc or director Guy Ritchie’s acclaimed

WATCHES TO WATCH

Actor Tom Hardy plays a fixer for a London crime family in the 2025 Paramount+ show MobLand, directed by Guy Ritchie. Hardy gave the character a yellow-gold Rolex GMT-Master II (ref. 116718LN-0001) on an Oyster bracelet with an eyecatching black dial—a sign to the audience that this plainly dressed individual means business.

The classic Submariner Date ref. 116610LN follows Hardy from red carpets to press events. Heavy, masculine and bold, it’s the perfect piece for an actor who made his name in gritty crime dramas and war flicks.

Its luminous white dial has given this Rolex Explorer II the nickname “Polar.” The orange dial also makes it instantly recognizable. Hardy has been turning heads with it since he debuted it at the 2015 Toronto International Film Festival.

Paramount+ show about London crime families, Mobland.) Hardy is married to actress Charlotte Riley, with whom he has two sons, and has a son from a previous relationship.

Full of surprises though this performer is, it’s no surprise that he likes his watches classic and masculine. Rolexes are a must. At the premiere of Venom: The Last Dance in 2024, he took to the red carpet with a Submariner Date ref. 116610LN, one of the brand’s all-time classic timepieces. A millimeter larger than the modern version, it draws eyes with its size, and Hardy rocked it with ease. You can also spot him wearing a Rolex Explorer II (ref. 216570) with the iconic bright orange hand, 2-mm case and luminous white dial. (It got the nickname “Polar” for a reason.) These are pieces on which the brand’s heritage of exploration and discovery shows, and Hardy’s an apt showman.

When he’s feeling flashier, he might reach for the Rolex Sky-Dweller, a Rolesor Steel and white gold piece with an ivory dial and a slick black bracelet. Or his Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean, a limited-edition version in bold gold and black that pays homage to another titan of the screen, Daniel Craig as James Bond in Casino Royale. Hardy has also been spotted with the nowdiscontinued Rolex Datejust Turn-O-Graph, a piece invented with army pilots in mind much like the one he portrayed in Dunkirk. Tom Hardy seems as unafraid to take risks as a collector as he is as an actor. As time moves on, he’ll surely show us more.

Desert Racer

The Tudor Ranger is timepiece fit for the Dakar Rally in the sand—or other adventure.

In 1977, Thierry Sabine, a young motorbike racer the Abidjan-Nice Rally, got lost in the Libyan His compass smashed and wearing only racing with minimal supplies, he wandered the desert three scorching days and two freezing nights, edly sucking on rocks to keep his mouth from ning dry. Finally, one of the rally organizers and spotted his tracks in the sand and the cross he’d from those rocks and rescued him. Though severely dehydrated, Sabine was profoundly inspired by spectacular landscape that almost killed him over determined to share its unfathomable beauty with the racing world.

The following year, on December 26, 1978, Thierry Sabine’s desert racing dream became reality when more than 170 competitors embarked on the Dakar Rally, a 10,000-kilometer racing adventure from Paris to the Senegalese capital Dakar. Since then, the Dakar Rally has grown come the biggest annual rally raid event in the The location of the race routes has changed over years: First it ran from Europe to Africa, then South America, and finally in the Middle East. Today the Dakar Rally is run entirely in Saudi Arabia, ing vast deserts, rocky plateaus, coastal plains rugged mountains, living up to Thierry Sabine’s racing vision: “A challenge for those that go. A for those that stay behind.”

Tudor is proud to be the official timekeeper of the Dakar Rally and has recently expanded one of iconic families of expedition tool watches, the to include a new size option as well as a stunning desert-inspired dial color, “Dune White.”

The origins of the Ranger watch date back when Tudor founder Hans Wilsdorf envisioned an adventurous aspect to certain watches and istered the name “Ranger.” Then, in the 1950s,

aspect realized when it sent tool watches—the Prince—with the British North Greenland Expedition to be evaluated in the field under extreme conditions. Their performance was nothing short of “remarkable,” putting and technical precision at the heart of the Tudor system. Whether in the desert or in the wilds of everyday Ranger watches continue to uphold those values and aplomb.

Ranger is available in a 39-millimeter and now a 36-millimeter, brushed stainless-steel, satin-finished case with a fixed bezel and a screw-down winding crown adorned by rose in relief. Both sizes feature a grained, matte either black or the new “Dune White” with Arabic numerals at 3, 6, 9, and 12 o’clock and painted hour markers that contrast perfectly with each respective dial color. The arrow-shaped hands, rounded for the hours angular for the second hand, are characteristic of Ranger aesthetics and contribute to the watch’s exceplegibility in all conditions.

Powered by the Manufacture Calibres MT5400 in the 36-millimeter and the MT5402 in the 39-millimeter, the is designed to ensure robustness, longevity, reliprecision. Both movements boast a 70-hour power making the watch weekend-proof. In other words, the take the watch off on a Friday evening and put it back on Monday morning without ever having to wind or reset

Both sizes are available on either a satin-brushed stainless-steel bracelet with a Tudor T-fit clasp for rapid length or a single-piece, earth-tone, tri-color strap woven on 19th century Jacquard looms by the Julien Faure Waterproof to 330 feet, the Ranger line begins at

you’re racing through a desert on a motorbike weekend or dreaming about it while racing your children practice, consider the Tudor Ranger, a watch robust meet any of life’s challenges.

brushed stainless-steel, satin-finished case, arrow-shaped optional Dune White numerals at the 3, 6, 9 and 12 positions, the Tudor Ranger is both robust and beautiful take its wearer seamlessly from work to weekend.

Dark. Polished. Defined.

Black titanium takes on a sharper identity in chains that command attention, bracelets that anchor the wrist, and dog tags that feel both personal and powerful. Each piece balances strength with restraint. Matte depth against polished edges creates a modern uniform built on precision and presence.

WILD ONE SKELETON

THE ULTIMATE HIGH-PERFORMANCE SPORTS WATCH

Citadels of Sport

It’s soccer to us, football to the world. Whatever you call it, the places where they’ll play the World Cup games have a drama all their own.

This summer the world’s most beloved sport will take center stage across North America. With matches hosted in iconic stadiums throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico, the FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association) World Cup will make the continent a vibrant mosaic of culture, competition and spectacle. For a fleeting moment, these architectural landmarks will become more than just venues. Soccer—known as football globally—brings a unique electricity: the tension before kickoff, the collective breath held before a decisive strike and the roar that follows a goal. It commands an emotional fluency that transcends language, uniting fans through ritual, rhythm and reverence for the game.

In his latest book, The World Atlas of Football Stadiums: 1,000 Iconic Grounds and Their Stories, British author John Gillard explores legendary arenas—from Estadio Urbano Caldeira in Santos to Olympiastadion in Berlin to MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where the World Cup Final takes place July 19. “Stadiums hold

Fans visiting BMO Field in Toronto typically fill about 31,000 seats; however, capacity will expand to more than 40,000 when 2026 World Cup play begins. The stadium’s opening match is June 12—it’s the first ever Cup game played in Canada and will feature the Canadian national team.

so many memories and emotions,” he says, reflecting on the passion found both in the stands and on the pitch. “They bring together communities, harbor rivalries and friendships, create magical moments and heartbreaking losses. No two are ever the same, and each offers something unique, something surprising.”

Though scheduling conflicts may keep him from attending this year’s World Cup, 50-year-old Gillard, who’s watched games in dozens of stadiums, understands the tournament’s enduring power. It lies not only in the battle for a trophy, but also in the atmosphere these stadiums create. For a few extraordinary weeks, they become spaces where sport, culture and connection converge—reminding us that the most luxurious experience is being part of something truly universal.

Above: Vancouver’s BC Place features a retractable roof supported by cables and is home to the Vancouver Whitecaps of Major League Soccer. It is slated to host seven World Cup matches, including five group stage games, a round-of-32 match and a round-of-16 contest. Below: Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta opened in 2017, and is home to Atlanta United FC. Its retractable roof is modeled after the Pantheon dome in Rome and features a 360-degree LED screen at its base. A slate of eight World Cup matches is slated for this Peach State facility, including a semifinal game July 15.

Above: Though the mountain view from Estadio BBVA (nicknamed “El Gigante de Acero” or “the Steel Giant”) in Monterrey, Mexico, is stunning, fans always stay glued to the action on the pitch. Four 2026 World Cup matches will be played at this venue. Below: MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., has hosted countless sports and entertaining events, but none match the grandeur of the World Cup. Eight tournament matches will be played on the pitch here, which will be outfitted with natural grass, including the prestigious World Cup Final July 19.

Exhale and Fly Easy

Today, even in a single-engine aircraft, thrills need not come at the price of safety.

The spirit of adventure goes hand in hand with real-life danger, and nowhere is that more apparent than with the single-engine personal aircraft. On one hand, the freedom of the skies opens up to you; on the other, this is a hobby that comes with no small measure of risk—and high-profile cautionary tales. But at the crossroads of adventure and danger, innovation is often born, and that’s just what the aviation company Cirrus has delivered with its Generation 7+ SR series.

These are the first ever single-engine piston aircraft to be equipped with a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-approved autonomous emergency landing system. That means that if there’s ever an emergency in the air, the pilot can engage the Safe Return Emergency autoland system and the plane will take over and land itself at the nearest safe runway.

Elements of autoland technology have been used in aviation for some time now. The Boeing 747, for instance, has sophisticated autoland systems to help its pilots touch down safely in low visibility or adverse weather conditions. Navigation tech company Garmin has been working on emergency autoland systems for more than 20 years, and there’s been success throughout the 2020s in incorporating them into high-end personal jets and turboprops. The system eluded the single-engine, piston-and-propeller plane, however, because of its inherently more analog nature—until now.

The SR Series G7+ weaves together advanced sensors, sophisticated algorithms and automated flight control to land safely—and without further

pilot input—at just a button-touch. After it takes control, the emergency autoland communicates with air traffic control, navigates to the nearest suitable airport, executes a landing, comes to a complete stop and shuts down the engine.

More technology? Large, clear screens on the dashboard display 3D images of ground features, water features, obstacles and traffic, regardless of weather conditions or time of day. Cirrus’s Global Connect system ensures that you can always access worldwide text messaging and telephone service. Bluetooth connectivity allows you to sync your mobile device for everything from accessing flight plans to streaming music.

That safety and tech don’t come at the cost of style, or of choices. The SR Series G7+ offers three models: The SR 20, 22 and 22T. You can pick the engine strength that’s right for you (215, 310 and 315 horsepower, respectively) and cruise at 17,500 feet (though the 22T can get up to 25,000). You can choose between different handcrafted finishes and among dozens of color combinations for the outside and, if none of those suit you, Cirrus also offers custom paint options. Inside, the inviting cabin accommodates the pilot and up to four passengers with accent lighting and USB-C ports for easy charging access.

S o don’t choose between safety and adventure. Opt for innovation, and you can have both. SR Series G7+ aircraft begin at $700,000.

The Right Ring . The Right Plan .

FINANCE YOUR FOREVER RING WITHOUR PREFERRED FINANCING PROGRAM*

*Subject to credit approval. Ask for details. Initial account activation in-store only.

The Lee Michaels credit card is issued with approved credit by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. The LM Preferred Financing Program provides the flexibility to help your dreams come true.

MODERN BRIDE the

A fresh take on forever—for the bride who writes her own rules. Yellow gold engagement rings with sculptural settings, unexpected diamond shapes, and delicately scattered stones redefine modern romance.

From top to bottom: 2.00ct Emerald cut diamond engagement ring with baguette diamonds down the sides; 2.00ct Round diamond solitaire engagement ring; 1.50ct Round diamond engagement ring with round and marquise diamonds on each side; 2.00ct Emerald cut diamond engagement ring with pavé diamond halo and round diamonds down the sides; 1.50ct Round diamond engagement ring with diamonds scattered throughout the sides; All in 14K yellow gold.

Evan + Victoria

A LEE MICHAELS LOVE STORY

Evan Ashy and Victoria Heckman met in March 2021 at a mutual friend’s house party. Evan had just recovered from the flu, but any lingering symptoms quickly faded once he met Victoria. What began as a low-key introduction soon turned into a meaningful connection, and after three years together, Evan planned a proposal as thoughtful as their love story. During a trip to Quebec City, he asked Victoria to marry him, then surprised her again when both of their parents appeared to celebrate the moment alongside them.

With a shared love for Italy, where Victoria had studied abroad and Evan had once traveled through Tuscany, the couple knew it was the perfect place to begin their next chapter. They welcomed guests with an intimate gathering at the Angel Roofbar in Florence before exchanging vows at the historic Chiesa di Ognissanti. The celebration continued with a breathtaking reception at the Villa di Maiano in nearby Fiesole, where family and friends gathered to toast the newlyweds beneath the Tuscan sky, an unforgettable beginning to their life together.

THE DETAILS: A welcome dinner for guests was hosted at the Angel Roofbar in Florence. The evening kicked off the wedding weekend with a true Italian culinary experience, featuring wood-fired pizza, Aperol spritz and other classic Italian fare.

Forever starts with a

MR. & MRS. JACK MILLER II (Olivia Brechot)

Lee Michaels has been helping couples say “I Do” since 1978.

MR. & MRS. KANDON GUIDRY (Kaci Guidry)

September 18, 2025 | Mount Charleston, Nevada

Photography: Kristen Joy

November 1, 2024 | Austin, Texas

Photography: Julie Wilhite Photography

MR. & MRS. QUENTON JONES (Jasmine Wade)

September 26, 2025 | New Orleans, Louisiana

Photography: Kayla Lazard Photography

MR. & MRS. ANDREW HUGHES (Madeleine Breaux)

April 12, 2025 | New Orleans, Louisiana

Photography: The Mulligans

MR. & MRS. DAVID DOMINICK (Carol Ann Harrison)

November 22, 2025 | Shreveport, Louisiana

Photography: Jennifer Bradford Photography

MR. & MRS. JOSE SANCHEZ (Veronica Aguirre)

October 25, 2025 | San Antonio, Texas

Photography: Jonathan Antunez

MR. & MRS. TREY WINSTEAD (Audrey Good)

December 20, 2025 | Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Photography: Lizzie Jones Photography

A House of Magic

The Paris fashion museum La Galerie Dior lavishes the same loving attention on its design and exhibits as the House of Dior has always given each garment.

By Vivienne Forsyth

For those of us who love fashion and see it as an art form, no visit to the French capital is complete without soaking up some of the history of haute couture at the fashion museum La Galerie Dior. The museum opened its doors to the public in 2022 as “a testament to the visionary boldness of Christian Dior and his six successors.”

In a word, La Galerie Dior in Paris is “exquisite.” Housed in the building at 30 Avenue Montaigne where it all started in 1946 (not far from the Champs-Élysées and the Grand Palais), the Galerie is an art museum that celebrates the life’s work and genius of its founder, Christian Dior, and his creative successors: Yves Saint Laurent, Marc Bohan, Gianfranco Ferré, John Galliano, Raf Simons and, since 2016, Maria Grazia Chiuri. Open to the public, the Galerie Dior is as much a masterpiece of design, color, intrigue and allure as one of the maestro’s haute-couture creations. I was entranced, enchanted and mesmerized, and left feeling as if I were walking on air.

On entry, a spiral staircase surrounded by a rainbow of color greets the eye. Stretching up three floors, the rainbow is made up of thousands of tiny fashion must-haves—from garments to shoes, handbags, perfume bottles, hats, gloves—each miniature model exquisite in its detail and placement. You are tempted to take the stairs and immerse yourself in this amazing wall of wonder but instead, you are respectfully directed to take the lift to the third floor. At the top, you look down on the rainbow and then enter stage left to begin your journey of discovery. For me it was like going down the rabbit hole with Alice into a wonderland of unexpected surprises, visual feasts and sheer reverence for clothing the female form.

In its labyrinth of rooms, each one took my breath away. Some are dark caves accentuating the color and crusted embellishments of spectacular gowns; some are spring gardens where the dresses are the flowers—some mirrored, some simply dazzling on their own. Then suddenly, the pièce de résistance, the highlight of your journey through the annals of Paris haute couture, a true masterpiece: three tiers of gorgeous gowns set against a changing backdrop of light and special effects. You sit and are overwhelmed with awe and wonder at the beauty before your eyes. We sat and soaked up the magic and the artistry. Then it came time to walk down through the rainbow, a fitting farewell to the fabulous and fanciful world of fashion we’d just inhabited.

La Galerie Dior traces the history of the couture house and its creations from the iconic “New Look” of its first collection in spring-summer 1947 (bottom right). The “New Look” or “Bar Suit” took the fashion world by storm and won instant international recognition for Christian Dior and his new house of haute couture. The exhibits change and rotate periodically. Azzedine Alaïa’s Dior Collection is on display now through May 3, 2026. It highlights the figure of Azzedine Alaïa, a collector and admirer of Christian Dior.

In its many enchanting rooms, the museum showcases Dior’s multiple sources of inspiration from the gardens of his childhood home to a dark treasure trove of sparkling, jewel-encrusted dresses, to his signature H, A and Y lines and the sumptuous multilayered ballroom. “Fashion designers offer one of the last refuges of the marvellous. They are, in a way, the masters of dreams…”

Christian Dior, Dior by Dior , 1958

From Legend to Legacy

The Bugatti Tourbillon has arrived, and it’s a tribute to craftsmanship, precision and the eternal pursuit of beauty.

When the curtain rose in 2024, the car world seemed to pause. Whispers had swirled for years: What could possibly follow the outgoing Bugatti Chiron, the modern titan of speed and design? The French manufacturer responded with the Tourbillon, and the silence took on the quality of awe. This wasn’t merely a successor; it was a renaissance.

Two years later, it’s finally available. Named for the intricate watchmaking mechanism that defies gravity, the hybrid Tourbillon channels the same spirit of mechanical perfection. At its heart beats an all-new, naturally aspirated, 8.3-liter, V16 engine—co-developed with Cosworth, the British auto engineering company—that’s accompanied by three electric motors. Together they deliver a symphonic 1,800 horsepower that propels the vehicle from 0 to 60 in as little as two seconds, engineers say. The top speed is estimated at 277 miles per hour, but industry experts suggest that Bugatti wants to bring the model in line with the now-retired Chiron

Super Sport 300+, which pushed the needle to 304 mph.

Yet the Tourbillon’s drama extends beyond numbers. Its design blends sculpture and science—fluid and curvaceous, yet muscular and unmistakably Bugatti. The artfully designed cockpit is a study in restrained opulence: crystal glass gauges handcrafted by Swiss horologists remain perfectly centered as the steering wheel spins around them. There isn’t a trace of plastic to be found; even the crystal-clear coverings over the instrument cluster and center console are crafted from machined sapphire glass. The Tourbillon is designed to captivate all on its own, yet for drivers who demand a digital lifeline, a discreetly concealed touch screen offers smartphone connectivity. Only a few hundred examples of this vehicle will ever exist, and each comes with an estimated price tag of around $4.1 million. But for Bugatti’s clientele, ownership means more than mere possession of an automobile. It’s an acceleration into legend—and maybe the reason humankind invented wheels.

This Much is Clear

Familiar as it may seem, gin can still surprise you. At its most precisely crafted, it’s a work of art in a glass.

In classic movies, gin’s reputation is as transparent as the drink itself. It’s blunt, no-frills and slightly nefarious. “I never met a gin drinker yet that you could trust,” grumbles Arthur O’Connell in Anatomy of a Murder “Boys and girls and music,” says actress Lillian Randolph as the maid in another Jimmy Stewart vehicle, It’s a Wonderful Life “Why do they need gin?” And of course there’s Bogey in Casablanca: “Of all the gin joints in all the towns in all the world…”

But gin, one of the world’s oldest spirits, is more complex and nuanced than its rep would suggest—and in the hands of today’s elite distillers, it’s more intriguing too. It can be an object of desire, a study in craftsmanship and a quiet marker of taste. In an era when we seek authenticity, rarity and a deeper connection to the provenance of what we drink, luxury gin has ascended from a simple cocktail component to a collectible experience. This renewed rel-

evance is driven by a global shift toward mindful indulgence: Discerning drinkers now crave a spirit with a story, a sense of place and an unmistakable point of view.

This is not the bar gin splashed slap-dash into tonics in crowded night clubs. It’s a clear pour sought out by connoisseurs and those who recognize that true luxury lies in nuance. From remote Nordic foraging operations to avant-garde Japanese distilleries to the heritage British houses that are reinventing what’s traditional, the world’s most rarefied gins are rewriting the boundaries of the spirit.

To sip them is to step into a deeper world—one where clarity, structure and botanical complexity reveal themselves slowly. For those who appreciate a spirit as an experience, these gins represent the pinnacle: elite, expressive and unapologetically exceptional.

Truffle Gin

From the heart of Cambridge, England, to the rare white truffles of Piedmont, Italy, Truffle Gin is a sensory journey. Crafted in microbatches at Cambridge Distillery, each botanical—including the prized Alba truffle—is vacuum-distilled to capture its full aroma. On the nose it reveals earthy truffle, citrus and piney juniper. On the palate, savory depth unfolds with gentle spice, creamy texture and a touch of pepper and herbaceous complexity. The finish is long and lingers with a truffle’s earthy elegance. It elevates any moment and is best enjoyed neat, over ice or in a decadent Truffle Negroni.

Procera Blue Dot Gin

Distilled high above Nairobi’s skyline, Procera Blue Dot Gin captures the spirit of Africa in every sip. Produced at Procera’s distillery in Kenya, this gin is built around Juniperus procera, a rare African juniper. It’s infused with 11 botanicals sourced from across the continent—for example, Swahili lime, Somali acacia honey and Zanzibar cardamom. On the nose, it opens with resinous juniper, citrus zest and herbal warmth. The palate is fullbodied, with juniper at its core, layered with citrus and green tea. The finish is long, and smooth, making this gin a refined choice for a dry martini or sipping neat.

Anty Gin

Here’s where bold innovation meets nature’s wildest flavor. Created by Cambridge Distillery with the Nordic Food Lab, this spirit distills the essence of real red wood ants—around 62 per bottle—infusing the gin with a tang unlike any other. Paired with hand-foraged botanicals such as nettle and wood avens, it offers sharp citrus and forest whispers on the nose. On the palate it delivers woody spice, tingling lemongrass and a dry, earthy finish. Best savored neat or in an avant-garde Anty Soda, this gin is made for those who dare to explore the extraordinary.

Nginious! Vermouth

Cask Finished Gin

Aged to perfection, Nginious! Vermouth Cask Finished Gin brings the subtle sophistication of vermouth barrels to the classic gin experience. This German-born gin harmonizes juniper botanicals with the rich complexity of premium vermouth cask maturation. It greets the nose with herbal sweetness, dried fruit and vanilla notes. On the palate, citrus zest and warm spices unfold alongside a silky texture, enhanced by vermouth’s aromatic botanicals. The finish is velvety, with hints of bitter orange and gentle oak. It’s ideal neat or in elevated cocktails.

This artisanal gin is crafted using select botanicals sourced from both Dutch landscapes and exotic regions, marrying tradition with worldly sophistication. Its bouquet reveals delicate floral aromas layered with warm cinnamon and cardamom. On the palate, vibrant juniper mixes with bright citrus and refined spice, creating a lush, lingering finish. Designed for the discerning, Eau de Nuit embodies elegance and complexity—an ideal companion for contemplative evenings or a constituent part in luxurious nighttime cocktails.

Pearls Meet Paradise

Paspaley Pearl Jewelry designs celebrate the beauty of the Australian South Sea Pearl, highlighting its luminous luster and timeless elegance.