By Sophie Lloyd

One of my favorite things about being a personal shopper is helping people find the perfect outfit for that special occasion– weddings in particular.  It’s rewarding to have such an instrumental role in the happy couple’s day!  Earlier this year, I was asked by two of my good friends Hugh MacDermott and Paulo Jiménez Verón of MacDermott’s Argentina (luxury adventure travel company based in Buenos Aires) to help them shop for outfits for their destination wedding in the idyllic beach resort of Jose Ignacio in Uruguay.

The wedding ceremony took place on the beach, followed by a party at a nearby estancia in the middle of March (end of summer in the southern hemisphere).   With the help of my local Argentine menswear designer contacts in Buenos Aires, we outfitted Hugh and Paulo with some fun, stylish  pieces to fit the relaxed, laid back, boho-chic vibe. Head-wear being a must, Hugh and Paolo’s only request was for the guests to wear fresh flower crowns.We selected a light color palette of pastel pinks, blues, creams and the obvious white that would work well in the heat and perfectly offset their colorful flower crowns.

Paulo likes his prints so we picked out a blue and white printed fitted shirt from Buenos Aires shirt designer Silvio Sierra. And if there’s ever an occasion for a man to wear pink, it’s a wedding, so we chose a fitted solid pink shirt for Hugh and some salmon pink chinos for Paulo from chic Buenos Aires menswear boutique Mis Intimos Amigos (M.I.A.).  A stone-coloured linen blazer for Hugh and a crisp white blazer for Paulo from Argentine hipster menswear label Felix.

I was lucky enough to attend the wedding and what a beautiful, heart-warming day it was. Hugh and Paolo are known for the fabulous bespoke holidays and honeymoons they organize for the most discerning travelers, so the affair which lasted all night, ran like clockwork  The highlight of the wedding party, was witnessing the two beaux making their grand entrance to the party on horseback to the disco classic ‘I feel love’ by Donna Summer’.

If you’re planning a trip to Buenos Aires, here are my top five picks for men’s shopping in Buenos Aires:

  1.     Apuesto –  handmade leather shoes – El Salvador 5772, Palermo Hollywood
  2.     Maidana Sombreros – men’s handmade hats – Avenida Rivadavia 1923, Congreso
  3.     Dinamarca – urban menswear label – Arevalo 1758, Palermo Hollywood
  4.     Silvio Sierra – handmade fitted shirts – Alvarez Thomas 637, timbre 2 (by appointment), Colegiales
  5.     La Restinga – luxury menswear and accessories fashion house – Niceto Vega 5181, Palermo Soho (by appointment)

Shopping tip: Argentina is a closed economy so there is a thriving local design scene, which makes it a great city for shopping since you’re unlikely to find anyone else with the same thing back home. And, due to high inflation rates and rising overheads, some of the best shopping can be found behind closed doors as many emerging designers and brands prefer to sell their collections out of private studio spaces or from their apartments on an appointment-only basis, which is a more personal, exclusive and fun way of shopping. Bring plenty of cash for shopping in pesos and/or USD as some places will give you a 10% discount if paying in cash.

 

To discover some of these secret shopping spots and Buenos Aires’ other shopping treasures, you can book a bespoke shopping trip with personal shopper Sophie of Shop Hop BA www.shop-buenosaires.com / sophie@shop-buenosaires.com

And once you are all kitted out and looking for an adventure in Argentina write to Hugh & Paulo of MacDermott’s Argentina www.macdermottsargentina.com / info@macdermottsargentina.com

 

Chef Sean Brasel transports us through Bordeaux 

Having recently experienced Meat Market’s Indian Culinary adventure, I  reserved a table of twelve for my friends in anticipation of Meat Market’s  upcoming Iconic Bordeaux wine pairing dinner. I wasn’t taking any chances, as the recent Indian cuisine and wine pairing dinner master minded by Meat Market Chef Pushkar Marathe was sold out a week before the event.  

So on Wednesday June 28th, Chef Sean Brasel will be creating 4 exquisite dishes to be complemented by iconic Bordeaux wines, from the Château Lafite portfolio.  This event has NOT been shared yet, as I asked them to please give me a chance to share with my friends and Meat Market Gold card holders.  Here is a peek:

Passed Hors D’Oeuvres

Lobster Rangoons, Wood grilled Churrasco, Shrimp Ceviche, House Cured Salmon with Boursin Cheese

NV Champagne Barons De Rothschild, France

First Course:

Duck Fat Seared Scallops

Creamed Pea Tendril, Couscous Summer Salad  

2015 Légende Bordeaux Blanc by Domaine Barons De Rothschild, France

Second Course:

Baby Quail Lollipop and Lamb Lolli-Chop

Compressed Melon Carpaccio, Mint Ginger Marmalade,

Apple Brown Butter Sage Baby Potatoes

 Side by Side Icon of the Andes: Caro 2013, Argentina / Le Dix 2012, Chile

Third Course:

Petite New York and Petite Filet

Red Wine Foie Gras Butter, Red Wine Truffle Réduction,  

Wild Mushroom Tartelette

Side by Side Left Bank vs. Right Bank:

2014 Château Moulin de Duhart, Pauillac / 2011 Château La Grave, Pomerol

 

Dessert:

Fireman Derek’s Warm Summer Black Pepper and Cherry Pie

 Fresh Black Cherry Ice Cream

2014 Château Cose, France

$95 per person (+7% sales tax and +20% gratuity)

Gold Card Member perks honored!

To reserve, call Meat Market at 561 354 9800 or

Eric Lumb at 443 8428 or email me at Maribel@altimapalmbeach.com

 

Piper’s Angels hand engraved charm and customized bracelet unveiled at Crossing for a Cure Launch Party

Hamilton Jewelers’ commitment to philanthropic efforts in Palm Beach County resulted in the creation of a Piper’s Angels Collection to support the local Cystic Fibrosis organization–Piper’s Angels Foundation.   Sterling silver and gold versions of the custom designed bracelet and hand engraved charms were unveiled during the Palm Beach Launch Party for Crossing for a Cure.

Piper’s Wings and Halo

The jam packed event took place at Meat Market Palm Beach May 17th, thirty days prior to the actual crossing.  Over 100 supporters including several brave paddle boarders attended the send off celebration.  In addition to Hamilton Jewelers, sponsors include Chris McDermott and McCloskey Financial Group, Tito’s Vodka, Chasin A Dream Photography and Spark PR Group.  (see photos)

The highlight of the evening was when Sarah Mlostek, manager of Hamilton Jewelers Worth Avenue, presented Piper with her very own 14kt gold bracelet and charm, with the logo’s recognizable wings and halo.

“The energy in the room was electric, and to have such as special a moment with Piper, to bring her front and center to recognize her for the strength and courage she has, was a memory we will always cherish.  A huge thank you to Hamilton Jewelers for making it happen,” said Travis Suit.

 

Twenty percent of all proceeds are donated to Piper’s Angels Foundation.  Piper’s Angels Foundation bracelets can be purchased online at www.hamiltonjewelers.com/piper  or stop by Hamilton Jewelers located at 215 Worth Avenue or at The Gardens Mall to see samples of bracelets and charms and place your order for one of these custom pieces while supporting a very worthwhile cause.  Shipping is complimentary.

Read more about Crossing for a Cure

Photos by Lori Griffith, Chasin A Dream Photography

www.chasinadreamphotography.com

 

Isabel Saad’s Photographic Palm Beach Début Exhibit Sells out

 Those of us who attended the recent photographic exhibit at The Center for Creative Education met the talented Isabel Saad and witnessed first hand the young lady’s impressive collection, which sold out opening night! Isabel Saad’s recent show of her engaging new photographs, curated by Bruce Helander for The Gallery at Center for Creative Education located in historic Northwood, West Palm Beach, opened on May 6th.

The exhibition was completely sold out by the end of her well-attended opening reception, as every one of the photographic

Norka Aron, Isabel Saad, David Aronberg

works from Ms. Saad’s first solo show were snapped up, with a percentage of sales proceeds going directly to the CCE for educational programs. Collectors include Lori Stoll, State Attorney Dave Aronberg, Charles Bianco, Aron Family Collection, William Louis-Dreyfus, and artists Bruce Helander and Alex Guofeng Cao. Adjacent to the recently completed Conrad N. Hilton Theater, The Gallery opened in 2013 and is a spacious 1,500 square foot area that presents a spacious and bright platform for ongoing exhibitions that focus on student artworks in addition to established artists with local and national standing.
“Isabel Saad’s photography was a standout amidst the works of many student pieces being exhibited in what has been the most robust collection of student works The Gallery at Center for Creative Education has exhibited to-date.  With varying levels of artistic merit, the artworks and opening reception were well received by art aficionados and casual collectors alike with the stamp of approval being the sold out works by Isabel Saad,” said Jonathon Ortiz-Smykla, Gallery Manager.
Isabel Saad, who currently is a photography and English literature major at the prestigious New School Parsons School of Design in New York City, has had a strong interest in photography for a number of years. This interest developed into a recognized style, quite often influenced by her discoveries and documentation of urban street activities, from department store windows to pedestrians passing provocative billboards and advertisements. Some of her works concentrate on self-portraiture and other figurative representations, which can elicit a mysterious and pensive depiction. In some examples, Ms. Saad can appropriate an historical or theatrical connection, such as her Red Shoes composition that seems to connect with Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz. In others, the photographer examines the unusual aesthetics of emptiness, such as an empty classroom where vacant tables and chairs take advantage of shadows and natural light, set up an unexpected minimal composition that is surprising and memorable.

Isabel Saad, who at a young age has lived in and traveled across two continents, has developed an interest not only in photography but in film making, drawing and design, creative writing and acting. She has attended Phillips Academy Andover, Cambridge University, the New York Film Academy, the nation’s only early college Bard College at Simon’s Rock and the Boca Raton Museum of Art School, among others.

In addition to her exhibit, The Gallery at CCE is showing photographs of Dreyfoos School students who major in photography and the work of Lot23 students.  The exhibition is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00am – 5:00pm and continues through May 27th.  The Center for Creative Education is located at 425 24th Street, West Palm Beach, Fl 33401. 

For additional information please contact, Jonathon Ortiz-Smykla, Gallery Manager, The Gallery at Center for Creative Education at (561) 805-9927 or jonathono@cceflorida.org

To view photos from opening night, click here. 

An experience our Food and Wine connoisseurs won’t want to miss out on!  

Meat Market, Palm Beach’s sizzling steakhouse, is kicking off the summer season with its popular Summer Wine Dinner Series. A must-attend dining experience for foodies and drink connoisseurs, the four-course Joseph Phelps Wine Dinner will be taking place on Wednesday, May 24, 2017. Crafted by Chef/Co-Owner Sean Brasel, the menu will feature bold and savory dishes that pair perfectly with world-class wine from Joseph Phelps Vineyards in Napa Valley. The dinner, priced at $150 per person (excluding tax and gratuity) will start with a reception at 7PM, followed by the sit-down dinner at 7:30PM.

Limited seating available!  Here is a sneak peek at the menu:

Reception

Lobster Empanadas

White Truffle Kobe Tartare Canapes

Shrimp Ceviche

Wild Mushroom Eggplant Belgian Endive Cups

2014 Joseph Phelps Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley

 

First Course

Hamachi Tartare with Soy Ponzu Infusion, Truffle Avocado Mousse

2014 Jospeh Phelps Freestone Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast

 

Second Course

Curry Braised Leg of Lamb with Fermented Rice Crisp, Sous Vide Baby Carrots

2014 Joseph Phelps Freestone Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast

 

Third Course

Koji Cured Prime New York Steak with

Black Garlic Puree and Charred Red Onion Puree, Cheddar Hash Brown, Umami Reduction

2014 Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

2011 Joseph Phelps Insignia Meritage Blend, Napa Valley

 

Fourth Course

Blueberries and Cream Pie with Blueberry Basil Sorbet

NV Veuve Clicquot Brut Rose, Reims, France

 

Meat Market Palm Beach is located at 191 Bradley Place in Palm Beach. Reservations for the wine dinner are limited and can be made by calling (561) 900-6001; or email elumb@meatmarket.net

 

Celebrate Mothers Day on Sunday, May 14th

Once a year we pay special tribute to the special lady, who’s there ALL YEAR round for us: MOM.   Mothers are loving, supportive and inspiring through life’s ups and downs, but mothers are also one-of-a-kind…  Show your Mom you appreciate her uniqueness with a classic gift of fine jewelry from Hamilton Jewelers.  My personal favorite in case anyone is wondering?  The 14k gold labrodorite bracelet with pavé diamonds from Hamilton’s Facet Collection pictured above.

Does your Mom prefer to showcase a prized bangle or wear a stack of bracelets on her arm?  Is she a diamond stud earrings type of Mom or one that prefers something more dramatic and eye-catching?  Below are some unique gift ideas from Hamilton Jewelers:

Going Vintage

For the individualistic mom, wrap her wrist with this one-of-a-kind handcrafted Evocateur Vintage Palm Beach cuff bracelet highlighted with enamel and Swarovski crystals.  The 22k gold leaf is applied by hand and carefully burnished in the surface of each piece.

Moms who love the isle of Capri will appreciate the timeless Chantecler LOGO collection representative of ‘la Dolce Vita’ dating back to 1983.

Chantecler Palm Beach LOGO collection

The legendary collection was revered by celebrities and icons such as Jackie Onassis, Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, Ingrid Bergman, Greta Garbo and Rita Hayworth! Chantecler designed the Palm Beach LOGO pendant and earrings  exclusively for Hamilton Jewelers.

Hamilton may represent an impressive roster of international brands, but the pride of American craftsmanship is a hallmark of Hamilton’s product offerings. Employing old-world techniques with state-of-the-art equipment, master craftsmen create jewelry of exceptional design and quality. Hamilton maintains workshops domestically, and most Hamilton Collections are made in these facilities.

A family owned business since 1912, Hamilton Jeweler’s heritage of excellence continues to offer generations of guests with an outstanding experience with each and every visit.  Hamilton is a recognized leader with a commitment to responsible social and business standards, environmental preservation, and community philanthropic support.

For more information, visit www.HamiltonJewelers.com 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Father launches 50 mile stand-up paddleboard challenge to raise awareness for Cystic Fibrosis

When Piper was four years old, she was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis, a terminal lung disease that currently does not have a cure.  CF is a genetic disorder that causes a thick buildup of mucus in the lungs, pancreas and other organs. 

Immediately after her diagnosis Piper’s dad, Travis Suit, learned that the inhalation of salt water mist has a therapeutic effect on the lung problems associated with the disease.  Salt water helps to clear the mucus that traps bacteria, viruses and other foreign particles.    

“When we heard about the effects that salt water has on the lungs, we knew we had to get her in the ocean immediately,” said Suit. “It doesn’t cure the disease, but she doesn’t suffer nearly as much, and we’re hoping that instilling a lifelong love for the ocean will keep her alive as long as possible.”

In the summer of 2013, Travis Suit and three friends completed The Crossing for A Cure which was a stand-up paddleboard journey from the Bahamas to Florida to raise awareness of the benefits of salt air and raise money for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Battling rough seas, a moonless night and exhaustion, the quartet completed the arduous 90 mile journey in less than 16 hours.

 

This upcoming Father’s Day weekend (June 17th) Travis and 30+ other paddlers will be embarking on The Crossing for A Cure 2017.  Paddlers will start in Bimini and finish in Dania Beach. Once again, all proceeds will benefit families impacted by the disease and research toward a cure for CF. 

 

                                                                   

PALM BEACH

LAUNCH PARTY

MEAT MARKET,  MAY 17TH

SPACE IS LIMITED!!!

RESERVE YOUR SPACE NOW 

BY

DONATING ON LINE

$20 Minimum Suggested Donation

 

To pay at door RSVP:

561 833 8283 

(Paying at the door subject to space)  

 

 

New Proud Sponsor of Crossing For A Cure:

 

Following a successful career on Wall Street as an investment advisor and Vice-President of UBS / PaineWebber, Steven Hartman took the bold step of founding Contessa Gallery to fulfill his passion of becoming a fine art dealer.  He comes to the Art World with a passion for both Right Brain and Left Brain thinking. 

“I’ve always been a believer in the mantra that if you follow your passion, you will be successful in life.  I am blessed that my avocation became my vocation.” remarks Steve. 

A collector from the early age of nineteen, “I collected everything at the start,” explains Steve, “coins, baseball cards, wine and art,  but it wasn’t’ until I began purchasing art that everything fell into place for me.  Since that time, purchasing art at has always been at the top of my To Do List and brought me the most pleasure.”

Founded in 1999, Contessa Gallery is a Fine Art Dealers Association Member (FADA) offering artworks of exceedingly high quality as well as art acquisition counsel to collectors, museums and institutions. Coupled with a strong commitment to service and connoisseurship, Contessa Gallery has developed a notable local, national, and international following and a reputation for integrity and excellence.  Contessa Gallery has continued to build its highly-respected profile through curating important exhibitions and participating in prestigious art fairs. 

At first meeting with Steve, it’s easy to see what has made Contessa Gallery such a powerhouse in the art industry.  Contessa Gallery is driven by Steve’s three main principles: passion, integrity and education.

“I think the location of our home office in Cleveland, Ohio has provided us with a unique opportunity to plug a Midwestern work ethic and values into the prestigious hip world of curating fine art collections.  We work with exclusive, high-profile clients including many Forbes 400 members, athletes, celebrities and corporate business leaders while maintaining a high-degree of privacy and discretion.” explains Steve.   

 

“Many gallery owners are artsy but they lack business savvy, or they are business savvy without being passionate and knowledgeable about art.  Before entering the art world, I worked on Wall Street in one of the most private and regulated industries in the world.  I have brought those skill sets and knowledge to evaluate what is under, fairly, and over-valued to the art world.  At Contessa, we approach building a legacy collection that will stand the test of time for multiple generations.” explains Hartman. 

Contessa Gallery I 539 Clematis Street I West Palm Beach, FL 33401

Open Monday -Saturday 11-5 PM and by Appointment (216) 956 2825

Steve@ContessaGallery.com  www.ContessaGallery.com

Dress Shirts for men who dream BIG and live BOLD

After years of being underwhelmed by drab colors and patterns in the men’s department, Wyatt Koch embarked on a journey to liven up wardrobes with his bold, colorful button down shirts for men. Wyatt Ingraham‘s recent launch party took place at EmKo in West Palm Beach.  Guests were wowed by a high energy fashion show, wild costumed characters and racks of Wyatt Ingraham’s electrifying designs.

The crowd erupted when Wyatt, donning a vibrant yellow blazer and his own colorful shamrock button down, gave an energetic champagne toast after the runway show, describing the inspiration behind his designs and thanking a number of people for their all of their help and support. Wyatt and his team are thrilled to now have their shirts available online. Click here to shop and show your support.

Click below for a taste of Wyatt Ingraham’s BOLD designs

 

Click here to View Collection and Shop

 

 

 

CLOSING NIGHT CELEBRATION, April 1, 5:30-8:00 pm.   Celebrate Andy’s life with Warhol fans and art lovers exactly 30 years to the day of his star-studded Memorial. 

Remembering Warhol has seen record crowds come through the doors at Alfstad& Contemporary gallery in Sarasota. Opening Night was the largest-attended event at the gallery in the past three art seasons.

Thc closing Night Celebration of Remembering Warhol is Saturday, April 1st 5:30-8:30 pm.  Christophe will be signing copies of his award winning book, The Day the Factory Died. The exhibition of historic photographs of the pop Icon’s memorial service and personal remembrances from Warhol friends will continue to live on at a global level. First stop Art New York at Pier 94, May 3- May 7.

You don’t have to know Christophe to enjoy the video where he ‘relives the moment’– Christophe’s natural gifts tells it all.   “I can’t relive the emotions, but I can recap the moment thirty years later,” says Christophe.  He was on assignment for Vanity Fair when he captured this veritable time capsule treasure of celebrity.

On April 1, 1987, two thousand invited guests arrived on foot, taxi and limousine at Fifth Avenue and 50th Street and walked through a throng of curious onlookers held back by NYPD wooden barriers. Stationed in front of the Cathedral, von Hohenberg took over 300 photos of what Grace Glueck of the New York Times called the “most droppable names” in the world of Hollywood, fashion, music, international society and art. Von Hohenberg captured an epochal era that Warhol helped shape.

VIDEO of Opening Night at Alfstad& Contemporary:

NEXT STOP   Remembering Warhol: Thirty Years Ago

Art New York at Pier 94

MAY 3- MAY 7

office@alfstadand.com

Visit the Alfstad& Contemporary booth at Art New York