An expertly curated, luxuriously produced compendium of all things Naples, Naples Illustrated brings to life personalities and takes you inside the exclusive homes, parties and interests of the world’s most affluent and influential people.
Not everyone weds, but almost all of us have been to at least a handful of weddings. Just a few short years ago, I had the honor of serving as maid of honor for my only sibling’s event. It went swimmingly and was a wonderful time. I left my hometown in Illinois at age 22 and, since then, have lived a distance from my sister. Thus, I hadn’t had the pleasure of spending much time with her groom—or his relatives—prior to their nuptials. The celebration afforded an opportunity to get acquainted with soon-to-be family in an auspicious setting. This is one power of weddings. They have the capacity to bring people together outside of the pair exchanging vows, often providing an ideal time to meet, mingle, and make merry with…
FOR A BRIGHTER FUTURE WHO: Pathways Early Education Center of Immokalee WHAT: Star Light, Star Bright: Pathways to a Brighter Future gala WHERE: Exclusive private club, Naples DETAILS: This magical evening supported early education for children in need. MEDIA SPONSOR: Naples Illustrated NONSTOP GIVING WHO: Path2Freedom WHAT: Red Gala WHERE: Northern Jet Hangar, Naples DETAILS: This year’s gala was an elegant evening of fundraising and a celebration raising funds for survivors of human trafficking. MEDIA SPONSOR: Naples Illustrated WALKING ON SUNSHINE WHO: Baker Senior Center Naples WHAT: An Evening for Better Tomorrows WHERE: Exclusive private club, Naples DETAILS: The center celebrated its thirteenth annual evening gala in a private club awash in bright orange. More than $2.15 million was raised to support critical social services and programs benefiting older adults in Collier…
The first-ever Naples International Dance Festival, which took place earlier this year, was an historic moment for the community. The three-day dance and wellness event, featuring more than 40 artists, was a celebration of the power and beauty of the arts. “We could not have asked for a more spectacular celebration of dance for our community’s first international dance festival,” says Elysia Dawn, CEO for United Arts Collier (UAC), who directed the event. “The energy and excitement were palpable, and the talent shared … was nothing short of amazing.” An initiative of UAC, the festival honors the art of dance through world-class performances, educational workshops, and community engagement. Bringing together renowned dance companies, educators, and artists from across the globe, it provided an enriching experience for both performers and audiences…
Sixty-four years ago, a group of educators teamed with parents to create Fun Time Nursery in the heart of Naples. Together, they had a dream children could be nurtured and educated close to home. In 1961, the nursery opened its doors to 12 children; it was the first childcare center for children of color in Naples. The organization’s fundraising event this year, named Once Upon a Time: A Storybook Gala, raised an unprecedented $800,000. These funds will benefit Fun Time Early Childhood Academy and its mission to provide affordable early childhood education to underserved children from working families. “The support from our community ensures we can continue to make a lasting impact,” says Jessica Campbell, executive director. Throughout its history, the academy has focused on learning through a research-based, creative…
The Naples Players (TNP) recognized local philanthropists Jay and Patty Baker with an inaugural Heart of the Arts Award at the 2025 Front & Center Gala, the annual major fundraising event hosted by the theater company. The Bakers were selected as the first recipients of the award due to their long-standing generosity and unwavering support for the arts. “They embody the spirit of artistic commitment and community leadership, making them the perfect first honorees for this prestigious award,” says Bryce Alexander, CEO and executive artistic director at TNP. This new accolade will be presented annually to recognize a community leader, business, or organization that goes above and beyond when it comes to contributing time, talent, or treasure to the performing arts. The honor serves as a reminder of the significant…
Led by the mother-daughter team of Shari and Stacey Summers, Summerfields is a noted Naples-based interior design firm and home, garden, and gift boutique, specializing in meticulously curated furnishings, decor, and tabletop designs from a variety of vendors. The Summers are particularly fond of one brand, Brunschwig & Fils. Founded in France and more than a century old, the company designs luxury fabrics, as well as wallcoverings and furnishings. Shari was first introduced to the company—known for its style, intricate designs, and expressive colors often featuring the beauty of the natural world—in the early 1980s. Over the years, Brunschwig & Fils products have been featured within myriad iconic places, such as the White House and the Palace of Versailles. Inspired by the rich heritage of the company, Shari and Stacey…
