Indholdsfortegnelse for December 2017 i Naples Illustrated

Growing up in a family of seven, I have so many treasured memories of Christmastime. Our house was full of excitement at any given moment. Santa was always right on the mark (with the exception of the oranges and nuts in our stockings), and would leave a small pile of gifts in certain designated areas for each of my siblings. We would all get up before the sun and gather at the top of the stairs, eagerly waiting for the green light from our parents to come down. We moaned and groaned while my dad stalled us with: “Wait a minute, I need to brush my teeth,” or “Wait a minute, I can’t find my slippers.” Of course, he was behind the door with his tongue in his cheek, trying…

Style Notes GILDED AGE: Mix gold accents with pops of black for an updated take on the trend WRAP AROUND: Try an armband or lace-up gladiator shoes for an evening look SHINE BRIGHT: Play with textures like burnished metal and lustrous snakeskin…

DEERLY BELOVED The reindeer encircling this platter ($59) from Pottery Barn are dressed for the season and ready to mingle at your next soiree. Pottery Barn, Naples (239-593-3772, potterybarn.com) ALL AGLOW The 30-light snowburst chandelier ($6,298) from ELK Lighting creates a wintry, magical ambience thanks to thousands of faceted crystals. Wilson Lighting, Naples (239-592- 6006, wilsonlighting.com) CAMPFIRE COMFORT Up the swank quotient of the outdoors with Ticket Chocolate’s Artisan Dulce de Leche S’mores Kit for four ($24). Caramel swirl marshmallows, handcrafted honey grahams, and salted caramel milk chocolate present a mature take on the childhood favorite. Republic of Decor, Naples (239-529- 3813, republicofdecor.com) WARM WISHES Cool evenings call for chic decisions like this J. McLaughlin reversible scarf ($298). With colors and patterns inspired by the palaces, bazaars, and jewels of…

NANUKU Pacific Harbour, Fiji While Fiji’s far-flung private islands typically steal the limelight, Viti Levu, the largest of the nation’s 333 islands, is making waves thanks to the opening of Nanuku, a property of Auberge Resorts pedigree on its sparkling southern shores. Unlike Fiji’s romance-imbued, slow-paced retreats, Nanuku attracts a more active and curious traveler, catering to those eager to immerse in cultural and natural wonders. To be sure, the resort’s lounger-lined beachfront, swimming pool, and dreamy, private, offshore island—not to mention the fabulous spa, an Auberge Resorts hallmark—are always available for perfecting the art of doing nothing. However, the extensive daily programming at Nanuku sets it apart from its South Pacific peers. Complimentary activities like cooking classes, tribal dance sessions, kava ceremonies, and coconut-husking lessons, often surpass a more…

FESTIVE FRAGRANCES An elegant scent, thoughtfully selected with her in mind, is a joy to unwrap. Our recommendations for perfect gifting: Hope ($115 for 1.7 oz., hopefragrancesint.com) by Audrey Gruss, for the eternal optimist; the new Miss Dior ($94 for 1.7 oz., Sephora), for the sensualist; Jo Malone’s Green Almond and Redcurrant ($140 for 3.4 oz., Saks Fifth Avenue), for the young at heart; Jason Wu ($145 for 3 oz., Saks Fifth Avenue), for the sartorialist; and Missive 15 ($150 for 1.7 oz., neimanmarcus.com) by Maria Christophilis, for the incurable romantic.…

GET AWAY Travel in style every weekend with an updated take on the traditional Gucci logo print carryall, like this Gucci Courrier soft GG Supreme duffle bag ($4,490). Gucci, Naples (gucci.com) SLIDE IN Update his Stubbs this season with these Pegasus (LEH) men’s velvet slippers ($600) from Stubbs & Wootton’s exclusive collaboration with British illustrator and designer Luke Edward Hall. (stubbsandwootton.com) MELLOW YELLOW Bring a subtle punch of color to his everyday wardrobe with Louis Vuitton’s Tambour Moon GMT watch ($4,850). Louis Vuitton, Naples (us.louisvuitton.com) POSH PUNK Every cool cat will crave this M Coolcoin wallet with spikes ($450) by Christian Louboutin. (christianlouboutin.com) WATER WARDROBE The multi-leaf, navy classic swim trunk ($110) by Strong Boalt is the ultimate suit for any man in Naples and beyond. (strongboalt.com) FRENCH ACCENT When…

For buying information, turn to page 154. Fashion Editor: Katherine Lande For buying information, turn to page 154. For buying information, turn to page 154. For buying information, turn to page 154.…

People from all over France flock to the Alsatian town of Colmar to visit its Christmas markets, which sell everything from toys to sweet treats. A native of Colmar, Yannick Brendel brings a taste of his storybook hometown to Naples at La Colmar Bakery & Bistro. The design of the bakery, which opened in August, takes cues from Colmar’s medieval and Renaissance architecture. The town’s festive holidays inspired Brendel and his wife, Ana, to recreate childhood memories through the decor and baked goods. “We love Christmas,” says Brendel. As a pastry chef, chocolatier, and third-generation master baker, Brendel plans to make traditional raspberry and cranberry pastries for the holidays and a marble Bundt cake with German origins, known as gugelhupf. The bakery-bistro overflows with authentically French, made-from-scratch breads, croissants, pastries,…

President Trump’s election victory coincided with record stock market returns—the so-called “Trump bump”—that sent euphoric investors into a frenzy of equity buying. Although the Federal Reserve has signaled confidence in the economy with gradual interest rate hikes, there’s plenty of healthy uncertainty among experts about whether the United States can sustain its growth. WHAT’S AN INVESTOR TO DO? In the wake of the election, certain sectors of the stock market, particularly financial and transportation companies, responded well to the president’s promises, but many of his initiatives have yet to gain congressional approval, says Leo Chen, Ph.D., a professor at the Muma College of Business at the University of South Florida. “There are too many ‘ifs’ for investors right now,” he adds. “Everyone wants to know what to do if the…

• The inaugural Naples Jingle Bell Jog 5K (jinglebelljog.net) kicks off at 7:30 a.m. at North Collier Regional Park on December 16. Participants will receive a pair of jingle bells to attach to their shoes along with a Santa costume to wear over their running clothes. Water, food, and holiday-themed refreshments are available afterward. • Enjoy some holiday sparkle at Elite Events’ Christmas Santa Stroll 5K Glow Run (eliteevents.org) on December 16. The course will feature thousands of lights along the pathways and dozens of inflatable decorations, with a snowfall at the finish line. • The fourth annual Reindeer Run 5K (gotrcc.org) is also scheduled for December 16, at 8:30 a.m. at the Community School of Naples. Festive costumes are encouraged at this family-friendly event, which includes a 400-meter Santa…

LIGHTS: Marco Island’s annual Christmas Island Style tree lighting and community celebration will take place at Veterans Community Park at 6 p.m. on December 2. In Naples, the Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony at Mercato is on December 6, featuring music performances and the largest live tree in Southwest Florida. The next day on Fifth Avenue South, Naples’ annual Christmas Walk and Tree Lighting Ceremony also hosts local bands, choral groups, and dance troupes. MUSIC: Naples Concert Band is hosting a special Concert in the Park on December 3, which will include a vocal quartet performing selections from A Christmas Celebration, Christmas on Broadway, and Leroy Anderson’s A Christmas Festival. Fifth Avenue South’s annual Tuba Christmas concert at Sugden Plaza on December 14 will include more than 70 musicians and offer…

TABLE OF CONTENTS Patent leather bustier ($2,990), nylon tulle skirt ($2,990), Ralph Lauren Collection, Ralph Lauren, Naples; red suede flats ($550), Jimmy Choo, jimmychoo.com; blue Bohemienne metal with antique gold finish, red lacquer, white, and turquoise resin pearl ring ($340), Dio(r)evolution cuff bracelet ($440), Dior, dior.com; bracelet ($1,675), Chanel, Saks Fifth Avenue, Naples; round-and-pear-shaped diamond ring (price upon request), multi-shape diamond Strand earrings (price upon request), Graff, graffdiamonds.com. PAGE 96 Liquid Mikado evening dress ($4,490), Ralph Lauren Collection, Ralph Lauren, Naples; tiered necklace ($1,825), Chanel, Saks Fifth Avenue, Naples; J’adior earrings ($330), blue Bohemienne metal with antique gold finish, red lacquer, white, and turquoise resin pearl ring ($340), Dio(r)evolution cuff bracelet ($440), Dior, dior.com. PAGE 97 Silk crepe dress ($5,600), Ethnie Ballerina suede and feather flats ($790), J’adior earrings ($330),…

Ed Staros, managing director and vice president of the Ritz-Carlton Resorts of Naples, has been with the company since its founding more than three decades ago. He has received numerous accolades over the years for his contributions and longstanding commitment to the community. Among the most recent honors in 2017, Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida recognized Staros for serving as a role model for our youth and inducted him into the Business Hall of Fame, Collier County. 1. Beloved charity: I have had the good fortune to be a part of the Naples Winter Wine Festival since its inception. It provides support to disadvantaged children, children at risk, and children with disabilities. The top of my philanthropic focus is children in need. 2. Nature escape: Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary and the…

There always seems to be a sprinkle of pixie dust in the air during the month of December. It’s a time to reflect on the year that was, the lessons learned, the challenges surpassed, and, most importantly, the blessings we are oh-so thankful for. But it’s also time to look forward with excitement and energy for the breath of fresh air that every new year brings. Somewhere in between is a firm embrace of the present, as we take in every moment of the holidays—and all the revelry that it entails with family and friends. Of course, that includes the joy of giving that we experience when we head out for what will likely be many bouts of holiday shopping. Need a bit of inspiration as you gear up for…

This season’s beauty trends center around the smoky eye, expressed in deep earth tones punctuated by bold metallics. It’s a look that begs to be noticed—all the better for complementing the current runway collections. To accompany the strong eye, opt for a soft lip in muted tones and matte nudes. Our must-haves: Chanel Trait de Caractère eyeshadow palette ($80), Ombre Première Longwear cream eyeshadow in Memory ($36), Rouge Coco lip color in Daylight ($37, all at Chanel, Naples); Giorgio Armani eye tint eyeshadow in Navy Lights ($39), Cruise Smoky eye palette in Sunset ($88, both at Saks Fifth Avenue, Naples); Smith & Cult nail color in Vegas Post Apocalyptic ($18, beautyhabit.com); Rouge Dior liquid lip stain in Scandalous Metal ($35), Dior Vernis nail color in Jungle Matte ($27, both at…

CELESTIAL WARMTH As the flame’s heat wafts upward, the Constellations Carousel candle ($50) from Diptyque dances round and casts whimsical shadow shapes. (diptyqueparis.com) CLOSE AT HAND Give hands the feather touch of Chanel with La Crème Main ($50). Not only is it the ultimate softening cream, it fits perfectly in a handbag—and a holiday stocking. (chanel.com) LYME AID The gentleman who loves being in—and on—the water will appreciate Royall Lyme All Purpose Lotion ($48 for 4 oz.), the citrus-scented aftershave and cologne inspired by Bermuda. Brooks Brothers, Naples (royallbermuda.com) TENDER ROSE The sweet scent of roses pairs with potent anti-inflammatory benefits in Tammy Fender’s Très Rose Duo ($125), which includes bath gel and body oil. (tammyfender.com) THE EYES HAVE IT Chantecaille’s Save the Forest eye palette ($85) was inspired by…

IT'S A WRAP For the jetsetter, Lululemon’s Vinyasa Scarf ($48) is a versatile accessory that can be worn in several ways, including as a warm wrap, cozy cardigan, or customizable infinity scarf. Lululemon, Naples (lululemon.com) OFF THE CUFF MantraBand bangle bracelets ($34 each) promote positivity with an inspirational word, phrase, or message. The bracelets, which come in silver, yellow gold, or rose gold, serve as a daily reminder to look for the beauty in life. Yoga Loft, Naples (yogaloftnaples.com) KEEP IT COOL Alo Yoga’s Vixen cropped tank top ($60) is a stylish and practical gift for the fitness enthusiast. Its ventilated design and racerback is ideal for everything from outdoor runs to hot yoga. Anthropologie, Naples (anthropologie.com) SAFETY FIRST Ensure the cyclists in your life stand out in a crowd—and…

Inspired by the universal symbol of the holidays this season, Sebastien Thieffine, executive pastry chef at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, turned to chocolate to conceptualize a traditional wreath design with contemporary expression. The award-winning pastry artist created stylized pine needles, jingle bells, and ornaments out of dark chocolate sprayed with colored cocoa butter and fastened onto a circular form with chocolate “glue.” “Everything is chocolate and edible,” says Thieffine. The 12-inch wreath, which took him 12 hours to make, will adorn the resort’s holiday buffet. kitchen CONFIDENTIAL CHEF BILL ZIMMER Executive chef Bill Zimmer says he is doing what he loves best at Coast Restaurant at Edgewater Beach Resort— and that is cooking fresh. Since his youth in the Philadelphia area, where he worked in an Italian restaurant, Zimmer says his…

Naples is a community where neighbors come together to help neighbors, as we realized once again after Hurricane Irma ravaged Collier County. In a show of support for the storm’s victims, Chef Lysielle Cariot of Bleu Provence joined Chef Fabrizio Aielli of Sea Salt for an evening of stellar food and wine to benefit disaster relief efforts of the American Red Cross. “The response was amazing,” says Ingrid Aielli, co-owner of Sea Salt, where the dinner was held on October 11. “We sold out in less than 24 hours, and ended up with 121 guests rather than the 60 or 80 we expected. It was a testament to how much everyone in Naples wanted to step in and help others.” The menu featured a combination of classic French and Italian…

As the Western world continues to look to Eastern practices, ancient therapies like crystal healing are gaining mainstream appeal. These stones, believed to emit unique energetic vibrations, are popping up in everything from moisturizers to makeup. But can the presence of amethyst really encourage restful sleep? “I see crystals as a tool for awakening consciousness and mindfulness,” says Margaret Ann Lembo, author of The Essential Guide to Crystals, Minerals, and Stones (Llewellyn Publications, $25). She explains that when placed on a desk, vanity, or bedside table with an intention associated with it, crystals can help a person uncover what’s preventing them from realizing a desired outcome. If you’re curious to experience these effects yourself, the Salt Cave in Naples offers a new Crystal Bed Therapy service designed to re-energize clients.…

While tai chi is known for its mental health benefits, new research shows it’s good for more than just reducing stress and anxiety. It can also help improve balance and prevent falls in the elderly. A study published in the American College of Sports Medicine’s journal Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise showed tai chi significantly enhanced balance control in the elderly after four weeks of training. Additionally, an analysis published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found tai chi may help reduce the rate of falls in the elderly by approximately 43 percent. Joel Ying, a local physician and tai chi instructor, is not surprised by the findings. “Tai chi is a gentle exercise because it’s a martial art, and the main idea of the movement…

MANY HEALTHY SNACKERS REMEMBER THE HUMMUS RECALLS OVER THE SUMMER, WHEN EVERYONE WAS SCOURING THE INTERNET TO ENSURE THE SNACK IN THEIR FRIDGES WAS UNAFFECTED. THE FOODKEEPER APP, DEVELOPED BY THE USDA ALONG WITH CORNELL UNIVERSITY AND THE FOOD MARKETING INSTITUTE, ALERTS USERS TO RECALLS AND FOOD SAFETY ALERTS AS SOON AS THEY’RE ANNOUNCED, MAKING IT EASY TO STAY INFORMED AND FEAR-FREE. ESPECIALLY HELPFUL FOR HOME COOKS AND FAMILIES, THE PLATFORM ALSO SERVES AS A QUICK-ACCESS ENCYCLOPEDIA FOR FOOD STORAGE AND PREPARATION, ANSWERING QUESTIONS LIKE: AT WHAT TEMPERATURE IS CHICKEN FULLY COOKED? AND, HOW LONG DO LEFTOVERS REALLY KEEP IN THE FREEZER? (FOODSAFETY.GOV)…

With many residents traveling for the holidays, seize the chance to reserve a table during Naples Restaurant Week’s Winter Edition, going on through December 13. “The main premise of the event is to get people to go out to local restaurants during a typically slow time of the year,” says Guy Clarke, co-founder of the event. Restaurants including Chops City Grill, Ocean Prime, Pazzo! Cucina Italiana, and Yabba Island Grill will make their Restaurant Week debut this month, and they’re just four of the 75 restaurants expected to participate. Each will offer a three-course dinner menu ranging from $25-35 per person. (naplesrestaurantweek.com)…

COLLIER BUILDING INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION WHAT: SAND DOLLAR AWARDS “UNDER THE SEA” GALA, RECOGNIZING LOCAL BUILDING, DESIGN, AND MARKETING EXCELLENCE WHO: CBIA MEMBERS AND GUESTS WHERE: THE RITZ-CARLTON GOLF RESORT, NAPLES. This year’s “Under the Sea” themed Sand Dollar Awards Gala honored the finest in the Collier County Building Industry Association.…

GO FISH For those who cherish the salt life, consider this tropical fish glass figure by Beachcombers Coastal Life ($21), which includes blue and green swirls that reflect the vibrancy of the ocean. Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (rookerybay.org) HEARTS AFLUTTER This handcrafted inner spirit rattle ($30) by J. Davis Studio features a dragonfly to encourage resilience with every shake. The raku creations were inspired by the Native American use of rattles in ceremonial rituals. Naples Art Association (naplesart.org) UP WHERE WE BELONG Alex and Ani’s Spirit of the Eagle charm bracelet ($28) lifts the American spirit. Through December, 20 percent of each purchase goes to Team Red, White, and Blue, a nonprofit that connects veterans to communities with sports, fitness, and social activities. (alexandani.com) BRANCH OUT For the…

PINE ISLAND {For Lovers of Quirky Culture} “Island Time Begins Here,” reads the sign as you cross the bridge into Pine Island’s town of Matlacha, an Alice in Wonderland kind of place where things, indeed, aren’t always as they seem. Known for its vibrant artist community, the “Creative Coast,” as it brands itself, emerged from its commercial fishing heritage. A mural on the east side of the Matlacha Post Office potently illustrates: The town’s colorful cracker-box galleries ride on the back of a snook-trout-redfish composite. Matlacha’s unofficial artistlaureate, impressionist Leoma Lovegrove, painted the scene. Her Lovegrove Gallery & Gardens (leomalovegrove.com) makes a proper introduction to this whimsical world. Call ahead to arrange a private, two-hour, customized paint-along session with Lovegrove that can include a tour of her waterfront gardens, snacks,…

THE LISTINGS The Naples area is packed with an abundance of great eateries, serving up food and drinks to satisfy every palate. Naples Illustrated has rounded up details on can’tmiss places for dining delights. AMERICAN 7TH AVENUE SOCIAL Eclectic southern fare and craft cocktails, with an outdoor patio and live music in the evenings. 849 Seventh Ave. S., Naples (239- 231-4553, 7thavenuesocial.com) AGAVE BAR & GRILL Innovative Southwestern cuisine in a comfortable setting. 2380 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples (239-598-3473, agavenaples.com) BALEEN AT LAPLAYA BEACH & GOLF RESORT Dine amid elegant tropical surroundings indoors, or on the patio to soak up the view. 9891 Gulf Shore Drive, Naples (239-598-5707, laplayaresort.com) BISTRO 821 A long-time favorite, thanks to executive chef Jesse Housman’s Natural Fusion menu. 821 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (239-261-5821, bistro821.com)…

Seaweed has been showing up with increasing regularity on spa menus, and with good reason: The marine algae can help heal and hydrate your skin. It’s packed with B vitamins that help reduce swelling and redness caused by acne, rosacea, or sun damage, and is rich in iodine that may help boost thyroid function, as well as fatty acids that enhance skin elasticity. Local spas offer seaweed treatments that pamper from head to toe. The spa at the Ritz-Carlton, Naples features organic, hand-harvested seaweed from Ireland for its deeply moisturizing seaweed bath, as part of its signature Harmony treatment ($240, 80 minutes; $295, 110 minutes; ritzcarlton.com/naples). The relaxing and hydrating bath is followed by a full-body massage. The Spa on Fifth’s Brush and Tone Seaweed Wrap ($150, 70 minutes; innonfifth.com)…