Denver Colorado Luxury magazine Fall 2023

Unleash Luxury and Elevate Your Lifestyle with Colorado’s Premier Realtor, Brie Fowler

About the Editor

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Trisha Ventker

CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER

Trisha Ventker is a published author, award-winning photographic artist, branding and viral visibitity expert and publisher of ELIFE and Denver, Luxury magazine.

Reader impressions have surpassed 12 million for the magazines, with the Denver Luxury magazine leading readership, being nationwide.

Denver Colorado Luxury magazine has covered 15 major fashion houses, and in addition to the local and international fashion scene, featured are international and fashion travel, local and worldwide celebrities, food and wine, and the bustling Denver art scene.

Ventker is best known for her Amazon best selling book Internet Dates From Hell which had the movie rights optioned by Paula Wagner. Trisha is also one of the first Indie Book authors to have a book optioned for the big screen.

Ventker is originally from New York City, presently residing in Colorado for the last 15+ years, with her husband and son.

Trisha Ventker CONTRIBUTORS

Richard Carroll

Sarah Devermont

Andre & Coco Emery

Angela Jones

Mike Le

Bernadette McClair

Michael Moore

Tiaja Pierre

Trisha Ventker

Stephanie Wilson

SALES AND MARKETING VP

Peter Small

NATIONAL AND REGIONAL ADVERTISING

trisha@ventkermedia.com

peter@ventkermedia.com

VENTKER MEDIA GROUP

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Inside

Feature

Carla Ferreira

Home

Say Hello to Gwenivere Snyder

Fashion

Carla Ferreira: muse

Ferragamo, Italian Shoe Designer, Brilliant and Inspired

blu frontier

Town Hall Outdoor Co.

Travel

Caribbean Dream

Park City Quest

Quail Lodge & Golf Club

Savoring Sonoma

Health & Beauty

Fall Makeup 411… In 4 Easy Steps

Self Discovery

If This Suit Could Talk

Gift Guide

Must Haves: Fall Ideas

Denver Guide

Hotels, Restaurants, Hidden Gems: Denver’s Best Brunches

Boutiques and Culture

Contributors

Contributors

FEATURE

FEATURE

Carla Ferreira serves as the Principal and Director of Onsite Development for The Aurora Highlands master-planned community. In her position, she is at the helm of the community's marketing and sales efforts. With an unwavering commitment to quality and community, she cultivates strong affiliations with the development's building partners, public stakeholders and an array of consulting teams. She also works with artists from around the world to commission public art pieces for the community's Hogan Park at Highlands Creek.

Carla Ferreira

DThe Aurora Highlands: What inspired The Aurora Highlands master-planned community, and how does it stand out?

CThe Aurora Highlands was inspired by what has become my professional motto: “Build what you wish existed.” While we recognized the need to expand the aerotropolis region, we wanted to do so in a thoughtful and creative way. It’s not just about building homes. It’s about creating a space where residents feel a deep sense of pride and belonging. To ensure this, it was important that we offer unique features like our public art park and event spaces that bring the greater community together. With a diverse range of home options, we are reinforcing our commitment to making sure everyone can be proud to call The Aurora Highlands home.

DFamily: You are working on this project with your father, Carlo. How has he influenced you professionally?

CSince my earliest memories, my father has been an embodiment of talent and determination. Growing up, he single-handedly raised me amidst meeting rooms and model homes. As I observed him navigate challenges during the master-planning process, all while striking deals and transforming communities, he unconsciously laid down a roadmap for my own professional journey. Today, as I walk in his footsteps, I often find myself reflecting on those formative years, striving to emulate his work ethic and visionary approach. Every day, he continues to guide me, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have such an influential figure by my side.

DPublic Art: You are curating a collection of public art for The Auora Highlands’ Hogan Park at Highlands Creek. Why is this important to you, and how do you select the artists you work with?

CCurating public art for The Aurora Highlands’ Hogan Park at Highlands Creek is profoundly important to me because I believe that frequent exposure to art demystifies it. My mission is to break down the barriers people feel towards art, and by consistently presenting it, we can alleviate the daunting perception. >>>

CThe artists I choose resonate with this philosophy. I intentionally select artists from diverse backgrounds, both globally and locally, ensuring a rich tapestry of perspectives that enriches our community’s experience.

DFashion: Fashion can be a personal and powerful medium. What does fashion or style mean to you, and what message do you intend to convey with your fashion statements?

CI love finding ways to seamlessly blend traditional brands with emerging designers, holding firm to the idea that, just like art, fashion should be all-encompassing. To me, fashion transcends mere clothing; it’s a powerful form of self-expression, deeply rooted in individuality, culture and history. Moreover, my style is a reflection of my journey. Through my fashion choices, I try to exude confidence. Even in an industry that is largely dominated by men, I’ve never shied away from my femininity. In fact, I’ve doubled down! We should all be empowered to embrace and celebrate our unique identities, no matter our professions.

DLooking Ahead: As we look forward, what personal goals do you have set for yourself in the next five years, and what is your overarching vision for the future of The Aurora Highlands?

COver the next five years, I am excited to strengthen ties with The Aurora Highlands’ residents and stakeholders while continuing to embrace and lead innovative real estate practices. My greater goal is for our community to become a benchmark for urban living nationwide. We are on our way! Personally, as I anticipate my wedding next year and the joy of starting a family, I also look forward to creating a home that mirrors the community I hold dear, cherishing every moment and milestone along the way.

The Aurora Highlands

muse

model: Carla Ferreira @carla_sayschill

photography: Mike Le @mikeleshotit

hair/makeup: Sarah Devermont @sarahdevermont @glambysarahr @spiritedesigns

nails: Stacy Ramirez @dazedgelz

stylists and fashion: Andre Emery, Coco Emery @andreemeryofficial, @kinda.coco

jewelry: 18k gold & diamond sun by Barry Peterson Jewelers diamond earrings by Barry Peterson Jewelers pink sapphire & rose gold eternity band by David Yurman shoes: Christian Louboutin Mary Jane (last page of spread)

Christian Louboutin Combat boot (black on next page)

Gucci Cowboy boots (black on next page)

Valentino Cowboy Boots (right image)

art andlocation: Umi at Aurora Higlands

Artist: Daniel Popper

Andre Emery blazer and skirt

Coopers Den (@coopers.den) necktie

Christian Louboutin Combat Boots

art and location: @publicdisplaysofawareness art @steeleism

art and location: Totem Triad at Aurora Higlands Clock Tower

Artist: Lisa Solberg

Andre Emery puffer and dress

Christian Louboutin mary janes

Andre Emery Wedding Set (top and skirt)

Dolce & Gabbana sequin blazer

Mike Le, has worked as a visionary fashion photographer in Los Angeles for over 10 years. Working with numerous brands like Adidas, Popular Demand, Culture Kings and published in the likes of Harpers Bazaar and A Book Of. With an an ability to capture the essence of fashion, culture, and beauty, Mike has become a prominent artist in the world of fashion photography.

Mike Le

Andre and Coco are an LA-based fashion label with global reach. Founded in 2017, Andre Emery is pacing the industry with a mix of luxury, streetwear, and avant-garde products. They produce high-quality items and take pride in their custom pieces made from scratch, as they believe in empowering individuality. Their field of focus has grown beyond that of a typical e-commerce entity as they explore the nexus of content, commerce, and culture.

Sarah is an LA-based makeup artist who specializes in current trends and flawless finishes. She applies her own personal experience in film, photography, art, and fashion to deliver stunning and captivating makeup that compliments all skin types and shades.

Stacy is a dog lover who specializes in Gel, Gel-X, and gel nail art. Her favorite type of nails are long gel extensions with fun nail art. She prides herself on superior services, creativity, nail art, and being fully authentic.

HOME

HOME

“Say Hello to Gwenivere

Snyder”

Angela Jones

Say Hello to Gwenivere Snyder

When talking to Gwenivere Snyder, one thing is clear – she loves her job. But she loves her family and her clients more. Selling homes is her passion and giving each of her clients the concierge service she is known for has enabled her to build a business that is 100% referral based.

Snyder’s phenomenal success in the Denver Metro can be attributed to her knowledge of the area, having been born and raised in Colorado. Offering the same level of service to every client, whether selling a multi-million-dollar home, or a home under $1 million, is important to her and it shows. She is as loyal to her clients and her vendors as they are to her.

One of the state’s top agents with over $200 million sold in real estate transactions, she was recently named one of America’s Best by RealTrends. America’s Best Real Estate Professionals honors those real estate agents from across the U.S. who stand out as being the best of the best. Those ranked are among the top 1.5% of 1.6 million real estate professionals in the United States, which puts her in good company.

Even though the real estate business can be thought of as competitive, Snyder loves to champion other female agents, many of whom are friends and says she is her biggest competition. But success didn’t happen overnight. It started 20 years ago on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. She was burnt out in her then career and with the help of a female mentor, started in real estate for Sotheby’s International Realty, while pregnant with twins.

You could say her life has come full circle, now working with LIV Sotheby’s International Realty in her hometown of Denver. But more importantly, it was one woman who believed in her that changed the trajectory of her life, and she has never forgotten it.

Today, her clients include wealthy executives to local sports figures to generational clients. She’s currently helping the daughter of a client purchase her first home. Snyder’s integrity and discretion have allowed her to build lasting friendships with many of her clients. She loves helping to bring attention to many of their causes including most recently working with the Jerry Jeudy Youth Football ProCamp

In addition, Snyder loves supporting organizations that empower women and benefit children and those in need. Her giving and generous nature prompted her to start donating 10% of each closed deal to Philanthropic organizations. Giving back is at the cornerstone of who she is, and it’s something she’s instilled in her children. She sits on the board and is the Founder of the Women’s Guild for A Precious Child, an organization that provides opportunities and resources to children and families in need in Colorado. She recently made an appearance on Colorado & Company to discuss the Fill a Backpack program for the organization which allows kids the opportunity to come to school on the first day feeling confident and prepared.

Say Hello to Gwenivere Snyder

She credits the success of her business in part to her friends and family. Her family includes husband Jeff, their three children, two daughters-in-law and two grandchildren, and her beloved dogs, Zeus and Hunter.

Having dealt with many health challenges within the family over the years, they are her motivation to succeed. While she is best known for handling luxury home sales, Snyder prides herself on going the extra mile for all her clients and is persistant in helping them achieve their goals.

Her work ethic is unparalleled, and she is not afraid to get her hands dirty, going above and beyond for her clients. She even handled a closing with a tight turn around while her clients were out of town and couldn’t get back in time. With the help of her assistant, they managed all the repairs, cleaned, and packed the entire house in two weeks. Her strong relationships with her assistant and her vendors are what helped her pull off such a feat.

She is currently representing the sellers of six Denver-area properties including a standout property located at 15490 Mountain View Circle in Broomfield. This 10,938 square-foot home sits on 2.34 acres of land and offers stunning mountain and downtown views. It has five bedrooms, six full baths and two partial baths. Some of the notable features include a year-round saltwater pool and spa, vaulted beamed ceilings and four fireplaces.

Pocket glass doors create the ultimate indoor/outdoor living, and the outdoor space is ideal for entertaining, with a commercial oven and refrigerator as well as an elevated custom fire pit. The finished basement might be the showstopper in this house with a private gym, recessed billiards/ game room, custom bar, and golf simulator as well as a climate-controlled wine cellar.

This beautiful home also comes equipped with an underground shooting range and target system. If that’s not enough, there’s also a 10-car garage (or space for seven cars and one RV) and an elevator from the garage directly into the home.

While her clients trust her with finding them the perfect home, Snyder has found her home in the DTC office of LIV Sotheby’s International Realty, describing the environment as positive and kind. But, if you want to know where she is on a Sunday night, she’ll be at home with her family, making an Italian feast from recipes brought to the U.S. from Italy and handed down from generations.

For more information on Gwenivere Snyder, and to learn more about this property or other properties she represents, visit Sotheby’s International Realty.

Want more insider resources? Visit our Instagram page for Gwenivere’s tips on how a luxury agent can work for you.

15490 Mountain View Circle

MLS #2782968

Price $7,600,000

Listed by Gwenivere Snyder, LIV Sotheby’s International Realty

15490 Mountain View Circle, Broomfield, Colorado

DO

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FASHION

FASHION

Andreas Tsagas Designs

Ferragamo, Italian Shoe Designer, Brilliant and Inspired

Salvatore Ferragamo was a superstar in his day, who followed his heart, grasping his love of handmade footwear with an unconceivable yearning to absorb and analyze the framework and structure of the foot and body, and always evaluating the quality of materials and workmanship.

Ferragamo, Italian Shoe Designer, Brilliant and Inspired

Salvatore Ferragamo for 50 years possessed an uncontrollable love affair with the art of crafting shoes, and a yearning to succeed in designing fashionable women’s handmade footwear. Inventive and widely copied, Salvatore acutely believed that form-fitting custom shoes were the core of a woman’s attire and health, and for him as related to the affairs of the body, the critically overlooked foot should be listed at the top of the human anatomy. Ferragamo’s life endured the challenges of two wars, the demanding and ever-changing fashion world, financial setbacks, and nevertheless, hope and success were always just beyond the horizon and always within reach.

The Alliance of Salvatore, Coco Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Elie Tahari

Salvatore Ferragamo is a valued member of the small and elite fashion coalition, “Rags to Rapture.” Members include Coco Chanel, whose mother died, and her father abandoned her to an orphanage. Louis Vuitton as a young boy spent two years walking across France to Paris in search of a new life, and Elie Tahari who said, “I had to succeed. Failure meant I would have to be homeless again.” Salvatore indisputably is a select member of the Elite Fashion Club inaugurating his career near the bottommost realm of life, not unlike the other members. Born in Bonita, June 5, 1898, a small, hilly village, 62 miles from Naples, he was the 11th of 14 children, a family of farmers despairingly poor with undeniably no likelihood of accomplishment for an exceedingly gifted son and his progenies. With support from the unforeseen mystery of life he followed his heart, persistently refusing to deviate from his ambition which would eventually lead him to fulfill his dreams. Was it an enchanted force that possessed Salvatore as a barefoot boy, not even ten years old, to be possessed with shoes and the craft of a shoemaker?

Shoemakers or cobblers at the time were at the bottom of the social structure, and much to the chagrin of his farmer father, becoming a cobbler which in essence was repairing children’s and farmer’s shoes was not for his son. Later in his career Salvatore’s thoughts were often overcome by the same question. He researched the family history reaching back four hundred years to discover not a single Ferragamo shoemaker.

The village was exceedingly poor, with 2,258 residents and firmly stuck in its own isolated bubble with ongoing hard-times, and with few opportunities for Salvatore or his siblings. He finished the third grade with no other advanced education existing in Bonita for him. Like many Italian villages at the time nearly everyone is connected by either family or friends with few bewilderments or surprises. Salvatore, a barefoot nine-year-old boy became enamored with Luigi Festa, the local cobbler whose shop was conveniently located near the Ferragamo home. Astutely observing Festa, Salvatore became involved with the art of footwear, the feel of leather, and the craftsmanship. Beseeching Festa for work, he finally assigned Salvatore to straighten used nails, his mother was delighted when he presented her with one penny for a week’s work. Quick to learn a challenging and specific craft he was soon repairing shoes, and to the chagrin of his father he frequently insisted, “I want to be a shoemaker.”

Ferragamo, Italian Shoe Designer, Brilliant and Inspired

Creating his first workbench and footwear

The historic and celebrated narrative of his fledgling career unfolded when his six-year-old sister, Giuseppina, was scheduled to take her first communion with sister Rosina as her attendant, the church tradition being that both sisters were required to wear white shoes for the service. The Ferragamo family was unable to purchase new white shoes, and to beg, buy or borrow, white shoes were out of the question, as well as the possibility of hand-me-down shoes from village friends. Salvatore, acutely aware of the family distress, found some scraps in Festa’s workshop, set up a workbench in the basement of his home, and laboring throughout the night, by morning had created two sets of white shoes for his sisters. His mother and villagers alike were greatly amazed as was his father. His proud mother answering the villagers’ questions, “My son Salvatore made them.”

From this dramatic episode Salvatore’s career as a shoemaker was launched. Barefoot, skilled, and working with Festa, he finally was allowed to measure, and began creating fashionable shoes for the village ladies. When he was ten, his father died from an appendicitis operation in Naples, which was an incentive for Salvatore to further help the family. By age eleven, with little money he spent a year in Naples working for cobblers, living from day-to-day, often hungry, while further absorbing the craft. With surging self-confidence, help from his uncle Alessandro to purchase tools, and with immensurable dreams he opened a small shop in the Bonita family home. The signoras quickly realized that this young boy who was barely 12 could create fashionable shoes not unlike those in Naples, and by age 14 his reputation had spread. Urged by his eldest brother Alfonso, who had migrated to Boston and ironically was working in a shoe factory, he migrated to the United States to further his skills and for the unlimited opportunities.

Salvatore Ferragamo’s shoe designs, a cultural evolution

In 1915 during World War 1, he arrived in Boston aboard a tramp steamer with zero command of the English language, meager funds, teaming with ideas for custom hand-made footwear, but was appalled by the unattractive and clumsy appearing factory-produced shoes. Later in Santa Barbara where four of his brothers were working at various labor jobs, and creative juices flowing, this young Italian boy created hand-made footwear for the cast of a greatly delighted film company, including Mary Pickford, Douglas Fairbanks, and Gloria Swanson, and with the brother’s pooled money they opened a shoemaking and repair shop.Shrewdly, Salvatore was studying the feet of his customers crippled by ill-fitting shoes and inferior workmanship. He traveled three times a week to the University of Southern California, USC, to study human anatomy, and enrolled in correspondence classes in Pennsylvania and Berkeley studying chemical engineering and mathematics, and by age 20 earned a degree, all the while in search of the perfect shoe.

Hollywood’s first distinguished shoe designer

In 1923, Salvatore 24, riding his success with the Santa Barbara Film Company, and fittingly a blossoming superstar, opened the Hollywood Boot Shop in the heart of Hollywood designing footwear for the entire theatrical profession, including major films for the Fox Corporation, formerly the Santa Barbara Film Company.

His clients were the celebrities of the day such as Joan Crawford, John Barrymore, Marlene Dietrich, Greta Garbo, friend and fellow Italian Rudolph Valentino, and later in his career, Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn, Sophia Loren, Ingrid Bergman, Rita Heyworth, Eva Peron, European Royalty, and thousands of others throughout the world.

Deciding to expand, Salvatore established a factory in Florence with 60 workmen producing superior hand-made footwear. Fervently opposed to factory produced shoes, he was unable to deliver large orders to stores in the United States with the Ferragamo flair. Together with the advent of the 1933 depression, and merciless financial decisions, the factory closed, and with eleven family members living with him, and a handful of lira in his pocket, the Hollywood store also closed, his car a lost memory. Salvatore was bankrupt and momentarily distressed.

A new beginning, aspirations unending

With astonishing buoyancy and self-assurance in his creative skills, Salvatore called on wealthy former patrons gathering orders, regrouping, and by 1936 his business was up and running again, opening a salon in the grand Palazzo Spini Feroni, producing the first pair of modern wedgies, a comfortable shoe with a thick cork heel that was an instant success. He repaid his debtors, and working long hours with his staff, in 1938 Purchased the Palazzo.

Love at first sight

With Mussolini on a rampage, Salvatore, 42 and unmarried, drove to Bonito with his family in the summer of 1940 and with his first glance at attractive Wanda Miletti, it was love at first sight. He said to his sister, “I found the wife I’m looking for. She is going to be my wife.” On November 9, 1940, they were married in Naples at the Santa Lucia church while Allies were dropping bombs on Naples. The German’s twice accusing Salvatore of being an American spy and the Allies also checking on his credentials.

In 1947, following the war, Salvatore was awarded the yearly Neiman Marcus fashion award along with Christian Dior, though at first meeting on the ship to the United States, Salvatore was oblivious of the name Dior, but developed a lifetime friendship. By 1950 Salvatore had a staff of 700 producing shoes in mass, specific to the stringent Ferragamo criteria.

Ferragamo today - family upheld

Salvatore died in 1960, age 62. Wanda was the honorary chairwoman of the company until her death in 2018, age 96. They had six children, Leonard Ferragamo, fifth son, is chairman and president of the board. Among Salvatore’s many film credits, he created the platform sandal for Judy Garland in the Wizard of Oz. Florence’s Palazzo Spini Feroni, 1289, remains Ferragamo’s headquarters with a museum dedicated to Salvatore. The book, Salvatore Ferragamo, Shoemaker of Dreams, inspired the film of the same name.

Collection

stylist: Tiaja Pierre @tiajamaisondebeaute

makeup/hair/grooming: Tiaja Pierre @tiajamaisondebeaute

blū frontier

fashion blū frontier

blū frontier

hat (below left): black wool felt outback hat with faux leather band by Rockmount Ranch Wear hat and coat (below right): Designs by Andreas A. Tsagas Furs and Leather shirt (below left): men’s 2-tone space cowboy embroidered western shirt by Rockmount Ranch Wear shirt (below right): women’s plush green & turquoise plaid flannel western shirt belt and booties (below left): Designs by Andreas A. Tsagas Furs and Leather shirt (right): serape pattern fleece western shirt in brown & purple by Rockmount Ranch Wear skirt (right): Designs by Andreas A. Tsagas Furs and Leather hat (right): Shyanne

models: Andreas A. Tsagas (left below), Tiaja Pierre (roght below), Erin Nielsen (right)

blū frontier

hat, camisole, skirt, belt, coat and bandana (left and

right): Designs

and Rockmount Red Ropers Western Cotton

Bronc Western Cotton

Navy hat (above left): crushable brown felt western cowboy hat by Rockmount Ranch Wear hat (above middle): black wool felt outback hat with faux leather band by

Ranch Wear shirt left: women’s plush red & grey plaid flannel western shirt shirt (above left): men’s fleur-de-lis embroidered black western shirt by Rockmount Ranch Wear shirt (above middle): men’s 2-tone space cowboy embroidered western shirt by Rockmount Ranch Wear jeans: (above middle): Levi Strauss jeans: (above left): Edwin Made in Japan belt & coat: Designs by Andreas A. Tsagas Furs and Leather jewelry: stylist’s archive models: Erin Nielsen (left and above right) Ron

The Town Hall Outdoor Co. Story Stephanie Wilson

The Town Hall Outdoor Co. Story

Imagine you’re blissfully enjoying a camping trip with your family, reveling in the amazing life you have created together. This is a life that combines a successful career with raising two energetic boys who have embraced your passion for the outdoors. You are invested and embedded in your small community in a mountain town where the value of loving outside is embraced. Then your phone rings, and you find out everything has just shifted from underneath you.

This is exactly what happened to Robin Hall in August of 2018. With a 15-year career in the outdoor industry and 11 of those at Smartwool, the call was to share that parent company VF Corp was moving the Smartwool headquarters from the remote mountain town of Steamboat Springs, CO to the urban convenience of Denver. That phone call led to a flurry of emotions from panic to fear to anger, but it eventually resulted in Robin and her husband Matt making the decision to put their family and their love of, and involvement in, the Steamboat community first and figure out a way to stay.

What came next was Town Hall Outdoor Co. Having held a variety of roles at Smartwool including Finance, Strategic Planning and Project Management, Chief Information Officer, Director of Retail, and Director of Sustainability, Robin had ample experience in all aspects of growing a business and a deep passion for the outdoor industry. Robin quickly partnered up with two co-founders with complementary backgrounds in business and the outdoor apparel industry to launch Town Hall Outdoor Co.

“We wanted to use our years of experience in outdoor apparel to create a new standard in outerwear, built specifically with kids in mind. Kids aren’t mini-adults. They are full-size versions of themselves, who need clothes built around their unique needs.”

VISION

You only must spend a few minutes with Robin to recognize she can make the most of any situation and that she is a woman who can get ‘er done. Not content to just create unique outerwear for kids, Robin and her founders wanted more for Town Hall. Before they even started designing the first jacket, they quickly identified the driving force of People+Planet+Place.

PEOPLE

From kids to adults, Town Hall wouldn’t be moving forward without a deliberate approach to how the company impacts people. It starts with recognizing the intention of encouraging all kids to embrace the outdoors.

The Town Hall Outdoor Co. Story

“We want every kid to love outside. We use the word ‘outside’ deliberately because the outdoors can sometimes be exclusive, scary, and unapproachable. Outside is the great equalizer. It is free to enjoy, promotes physical and mental health and you can make what you want of it. From ripping the resort terrain park to playing hopscotch in the alley, there is space outside for everyone, regardless of your color, size, age, gender, socioeconomic background, religion, or sexual orientation.”

But it doesn’t stop with the kids. Robin is passionate about ensuring that they are building a company that will provide a healthy culture for their employees as well as good-paying jobs to allow employees to continue living in the Yampa Valley.

“This little corner of the state in rural Colorado is such a beautiful melting pot of ranchers, outdoors people, conservationists, entrepreneurs, students, artists, and tourists. Everyone here rolls up their sleeves every day to make the Yampa Valley, its people, and outdoor spaces better. We all are passionate about this place and want to ensure that it continues to thrive for generations to come. At Town Hall, our goal is to do everything that we can to keep jobs in the Yampa Valley and to ensure the staff is fulfilled and passionate about giving back to this great place that we call home.”

PLACE

A driving force behind staying in Steamboat was Robin and her co-founder’s commitment to giving back to the community.

“Town Hall’s ‘place’ is Steamboat Springs and the Yampa Valley surrounding area, where getting your gear dirty is a badge of honor and community is everything.”

“Town Hall partners with local, community-based organizations like Integrated Community and Boys and Girls Club in Steamboat to amplify their efforts to get more kids in this community access to being outside. Lastly, we are about to launch a winter gear takeback program where we will take back outdoor gear from consumers, repair and resell it on our website for lower cost so that more kids in our community can love outside, more affordably.”

SUSTAINABILITY

Being in the outdoor industry for 15 years, Robin watched the impact the changing climate had on outdoor recreation and the industry as a whole. As Director of Sustainability in her final year at Smartwool, she began to see the possibilities for businesses to help shift the tides of climate change.

“The more you love the outside, the more you want to sustain, maintain, and save the places that you love to play. These kids are inheriting this world, so we want to make sure that everything we create is sustainably made. We use as much recycled material as possible. We believe in reducing our manufacturing footprint. And we don’t believe in taking shortcuts. Our goal is to be planet-positive - to leave the planet better than we found it. We’re all about building quality gear that lets kids find joy in the outdoors and stay warm and comfy doing it.”

It hasn’t been an easy path, but Robin is laser-focused on her goals, and the joy of bumping into someone she doesn’t know wearing Town Hall apparel keeps her going.

Keep an eye out for the Hall family out on the slopes this winter, and if you find yourself on a chairlift ride with Robin you might just end up being interviewed for her chairlift chats. You can find out more about Town Hall Outdoor Co products by visiting their website: townhallco.com, stopping by Ski Haus, or following them on Instagram or Facebook.

TRAVEL

TRAVEL

Carribean Dream

Trisha Ventker

Oceanfront 6-Bedroom Villas at The Shore Club | Turks & Caicos

For families or friends seeking a more private, exclusive experience, the hotel offers six oceanfront 6-bedroom luxury estate villas - some of the most sought after in the Caribbean - naturally providing a “home away from home” feeling. Each of the 8,800 square villas offer luxury amenities such as a private and heated whirlpool plus private courtyard, beachfront access to the 800-foot stretch of beach, private butler, and dedicated watersports equipment, while the option to add-on butler services, a private chef, and live entertainment are among other luxuries groups can add during their stay. Steps away, villa travelers can also utilize the resort’s guests benefits from all resort amenities including access to the four resort pools, wellness center, four restaurants and bars, tennis courts, The Dune Spa and more.

Caribbean Dream

The world is enormous and for an avid traveler it could easily take two lifetimes to see it all. In my own modest way I’m doing my best to at least touch the corners, and recently I had the opportunity to experience the culture of both the Caribbean and The Shore Club. The award-winning property is tucked away in the North Atlantic 575 miles southeast of Miami in the Turks and Caicos and British West Indies. Some 30 years ago I did visit a Club Med in the Turks & Caicos, but the memories of that trip have faded. Regardless of the travel excitement, before heading out I was reflecting about the Nuggets and the great Nikola Jokić who was a cover story in the Fall Issue, and how they have forged a new frontier for Denver and the State of Colorado.

Researching the Shore Club a few days before the trip, I found that the resort has earned a host of honors, “Number One Resort Hotel in the Caribbean, Bermuda and the Bahamas,” awarded “USA Today’s Reader’s Choice Best Caribbean Resort,” named by Conde Nast Traveler among the “Ten Best Island Beaches Around the World,” and voted “The Most Instagrammable Hotel in the World.” Over the years I’ve visited several resorts so it will be a challenge to appraise the Shore Club and its sister property, The Palms. I’m traveling with Peter, VP of sales and marketing for the Ventker Media Group. We connected in New York City and flew American Airlines to Providenciales International Airport. Providenciales, known locally as Provo, is the third largest island in the Turks & Caicos chain, and it was easy to see that it is a British Overseas Territory with cars driving on the left side of the road, Cricket is the island’s national sport, and English the spoken language, though Spanish is widespread.

Shore Club Panache

The luxurious Shore Club opened in 2017, offers 106 ocean view suites, and six luxury villas, overlooking Long Bay Beach and a lush panorama of manicured grounds. The stunning setting set the stage to awaken my senses with the feeling of serenity, relaxation and well-being. I had booked an ocean-front suite that was light, airy, and modern with a lively Caribbean flair, and a welcoming warm tropical breeze flowing throughout. Anxious to become familiar with my new home, unfortunately a home for only three days, I found the resort easy to navigate, discovering four shimmering pools, three attractive restaurants that I was eager to experience, and a therapeutic spa. I found the environs are absolutely eye-catching with dazzling Long Bay stretching some 820 feet, the sun-bleached sand a blazing white, and Long Bay with no open ocean swells, and 350 days of sunshine, making the Shore Club a nirvana for Snow Birds.

Caribbean Dream

Dining With Exuberance

While walking the beach as flocks of seabirds rose into the sky with pulsating wings, I spoke with guests who were raving about the cuisine. The bracing sea air and beach walk created an appetite, so we popped over to Sui-Ren for dinner, which is an Asian-themed restaurant with a blend of Japanese and Peruvian finesse. Created by Executive Chef, Matin Davies, Director Of Operational Food and Beverage, and Sous Chef Vivek Khedekar, the cuisine is unique to the county and high end. We shared the highly recommended and flavorsome sushi dishes; a Rainbow Roll filled with crab, shrimp, tuna, salmon and avocado, and an Asian Fusion Roll with tuna, avocado and crispy crab sticks. The Beef Aao Buns were carefully slow steamed, as was the four hour slow braised beef with garden scallion, chili and Asian basil with scoops of steamed coconut rice. After undertaking dessert I definitely will need another vigorous beach stroll. Before us was a Molten Lava Cake with Peruvian matcha crunch, mango passion ice cream, green tea and lemon grass Yuzu sorbet, and lastly, sweet potato donuts with Chantilly cream. An attentive bonus is the complimentary buffet breakfast offered at all three restaurants.

The Palms

One morning we were offered the opportunity to visit The Palms, an exquisite 72-suite sister property opened 2005 at Grace Bay Beach, and it was another eye-opener. Our guide was personable Malie, and everything here at first glance was five-star, starting with the spectacular setting. The beach is consistently noted as among the world’s most striking with the turquoise waters of Grace Bay beckoning. The 25,000 square foot spa is ranked number one in the Caribbean, a state-of-theart infinity pool promises relaxation, a wide range of boutique shopping if offered, and the spacious Palms Caribbean architecture is open to the pleasures of nature. We enjoyed lunch at Plunge, a restaurant near a large swimming pool with a swim-up bar. We both ordered succulent conch fritters and tuna wontons fresh from the fishing boats. Accompanying the lunch was refreshing mango frozen daiquiris, and finally the house key lime pie crowned with limes and strawberries. It was a short visit but visitors shared with me that the award-winning property ensures peace and serenity with a smiling and efficient staff.

Turks and Caicos Pleasures

Island pleasures flourish here, many revolving in and around the sea with yacht charters, scuba diving at the artificial reef in the shallow waters of Grace Bay, horseback riding on the beach, or visit the Turtle Cove boardwalk for restaurants, bars and local entertainment. Visitors can look for either Jojo, a wild bottle-nose Atlantic dolphin or Dreamer who may be related to Jojo, who interact with humans, and have made their home in the coastal waters of the Caicos Cays, and Grace Bay. The island is also noted as the world’s best for Kiteboarding or kitesurfing, and with schools too. The best wind conditions being between November and July. For the adventurous, a ride on the E-foil or E-foiling, which is an electric hydrofoil surf board allowing riders to fly up to two-feet above the water reaching a speed of 25 mph. Not for me, though I would love to watch someone propelling on the sea two feet above the water.

When You Go

The Shore Club is a Canadian-owned company, and part of the Hartling Group with it sister resorts, The Sands at Grace Bay, The Palms and Villas at Blue Mountain. Climate is an average of 88 degrees with September the hottest month. theshoreclubtc.com; thepalmstc.com

DREAM IN Color

Park City Quest

credit: Park City Chamber/ Bureau

Park City Quest

Reflecting on Park City and ongoing travel destinations in my portfolio, I have covered Salt Lake City, but passionately excited to experience Park City, a short 40 minute drive from Salt lake. I eagerly visited Park City along with my husband Tom, an excursion that opened my eyes to the vastness of the region, to Heber Valley and the active side of the Park City region deprived of snow, assisted by a bright summer sun exposing a landscape with activity to suit all tastes and a huge travel satchel filled with family fun. It’s always delightful to travel with Tom who is diligent and enormously active with his own agenda, speaks several languages, and loves to explore new destinations. It was also Tom’s first trip to Park City, and he was aware of the film and art festivals, the internationally renowned reputation of the city’s famed powder snow, and the enchanting setting of the city with 47 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places and Main Street, a designated National Historic District.

Pendry Hotel Precision

We checked into the Pendry in Canyon Village a short hop from the Historic District and were greeted in the lobby by a large and spectacular modern-style, two-way fireplace that, for me, established the tone of the hotel with an immense welcome. The Pendry, a midsized 153 room ski out/ski in property located at the base of Park City Mountain, was opened February 2022 and is popular with the international crowd. Our suite, not unlike the public spaces, was upscale, casual and contemporary in design with clean uncluttered lines, a kitchen, comfortable living room, hefty bathroom with a soaking tub, and a terrace to gather your thoughts. The hotel has the obligatory full-service spa and fitness center, and I have found when traveling it’s almost always pleasurable to expect the unexpected, and unique to the Pendry is the only rooftop swimming pool in Park City

Executive Chef Adán Morales

It was an energetic travel day, and we were looking forward to dinner at Kita, an attractive Japanese grill style restaurant offering indoor/outdoor dining and a busy sushi bar. Executive Chef Adán Morales led us through a Japanese culinary journey with server Claudia Nguyen assisting. Chatting with Chef Morales for a few minutes, he said that he’s originally from Mexico City, began cooking at age 15, worked in top restaurants, was a chef at the Versace mansion in South Beach, Miami, and for many years has explored and worked with Japanese cuisine, but best of all said that he enjoys cooking at Pendry’s with locally sourced produce. We felt we were in good hands and after Claudia delivered a plate of Hotate Betayski scallops with a dash of lime, followed by Himachi Crudo, a classic fish dish dressed with yuzu-chile emulsion, sriracha aioli, bits of radish, cilantro and puffed rice, and then a delightful carrot ginger salad with warm Japanese rolls, we knew for sure that Chef Morales was brilliant. Course four was a pan seared bass accompanied with blanched Oshitashi spinach, carrot miso puree and Po. The wine selected was a Pascal Jolivet “Attitude” Sauvignon Blanc.

Park City Quest

Switching to a French Burgundy, Louis Latour Domaine Valmoissine Pinot Noir, we experienced the American Wagyu, a 12-ounce NY Strip cut and a Japanese Wagyu. Both were preeminent and among the best we’ve ever experienced, with sides of sauteed wild mushrooms, garden vegetables, and truffled mashed potatoes, another wow. My sweet tooth was satisfied with a banana chocolate gratin on salted caramel ice cream, a touch of almonds with orange streusel and cappuccino. The chef’s creations were smartly devised and visually appealing. Thankfully, we will be active and exploring tomorrow.

Heber City: The Other Side of Park City

We were aware of Park City’s historic downtown where more than 200 of the city’s restaurants, bars, and shops are wall to wall fronted by narrow walkways, bursting with mended for the entire family. visitors and residents, but on this visit, we experienced the other side of the area with skis aside, the sun casting warm darting rays, and hiking boots in place, it was a 20 minute ride to Heber City in Wasatch County, known as the Wasatch Back, at 5,595 feet elevation, first settled in 1859, Heber is an exceptionally safe city I was told, and noted with the lowest unemployment rate in Utah. Located on the eastern side of the Wasatch Range of the Rocky Mountains, Heber Valley is an alpine splendor with 75 percent of the valley national forest and BLM lands, and where visitors in the summer and fall can hike or horseback ride the 36 plus trails, such as the 20-mile Mid-Mountain trails, through three ski areas and a pine forest. Also on the active list, Provo Rover for fly fishing, boating, fat tire biking, golfing, ziplining, ballooning, and more. We enjoyed a much needed coffee at Dutch Bros. Coffee in Heber City and then off to a balloon ride with Ballons Above, flying since 1979.

Ballooning Heber Valley, Fear Aside

We are both exceedingly fearful of heights, but the owner and pilot, Wil LaPointe, ballooning for 43 years, soothed our fears a tad explaining that ballooning is the safest sport in aviation. We would be ballooning from 500 to 1,000-feet elevation depending upon the winds and would be up from 40 minutes to an hour or more. We reasoned, you only go around once, so what the hell, we’ll give it a try and see what happens. The propane burners were fired, the heat directed into the envelope, and we lifted off at 7:30 a.m., and were away. I felt a light-headed sense of freedom moving with the winds, yet not feeling any movement, the morning sky a cheerful blue with a tiny nip in the air, the horizon endless, and below a rolling and checkered terrain, while passing over Deer Creek and Jordanelle State Parks, with mountains in the foreground.

Ziplining From An 80-foot Tower

Landing on solid ground we were elated, and had a quick breakfast at Ritual Chocolate, sharing an Avocado Smash and hot chocolate with a yummy chocolate tasting and then drove 22 miles to Wallsburg and Zipline Utah at Deer Creek. Again, putting our acrophobia aside we climbed an 80foot tower to experience a five zipline course over a suspended aerial bridge, traveling 2,200 feet. Other choices are ziplining 3,900-feet over a lake, a world record, and a continual two-mile loop, another record, with many of their seven tours starting from the 80-foot tower.

We experienced a memorable active Heber Valley morning and lunch was recommended at the family-owned Midway Mercantile in the town of Midway, serving fresh heartland cuisine on a large patio. I met Chef John and chatted about his gluten-free menu, and the agreeable selection of salads and seafood. I ordered the Mercantile Raclette Fondue, tasty bacon wrapped dates, and a fresh handmade pasta.

Back at our Pendry suite we had the afternoon to relax and to take notes. I wanted to check my photography skills before the 6 p.m. Park City Gallery Stroll, which takes place the last Friday night of every month till 9 p.m. with 20 galleries to browse, and with food, drinks and live music. Tom experienced dinner at Pine Cone Ridge on Main Street with art aficionados passing by some toting recently purchased art. The restaurant adorned with local art is anchored by Chef Gudrun Thorne-Thomsen crafting contemporary American cuisine and vegan offerings. Tom ordered Heirloom Tomato Burrata Panzenella, a stuffed lobster, and a signature margarita. From the chef’s personal repertoire are Miso Chilean Seabass and Chilled Buttermilk and Cucumber Soup. The international wine list is impressive as is the separate bar menu.

Park City Mountain Village and Adventure Park

Saturday, our last full day in Park City, we didn’t want to waste a moment. The complimntary Park City Shuttle service drove us to the park where awaiting was enough summer activity to keep us busy throughout the day. A 3,000 foot long Alpine Slide on a Luge-like track, among the world’s longest slides, is only the beginning. The Scenic Chair Lift can drop one off to hike or bike any of the 150 miles of well-groomed trails, while a Mountain Coaster weaves through a stretch of loops and curves at speeds up to 25 mph, and two ziplines, one with seats, which would be my choice. Four separate trampolines with a safety harness to assess your agility, and mini golf too, set this summer and fall park aside as a “one of a kind” for health and fitness while profoundly bonded with nature.

With evening calling we walked to the Dos Olas Cantina in Canyons Village for dinner. I admire Mexican cuisine and Executive Chef Carlos Segura, who has cooked in many of Mexico’s top resorts, did not disappoint. The chef’s creation of sweet plantains and cauliflower with a rich mole, or an avocado shrimp salad designed with lightly grilled shrimp, a mix of fresh greens, slices of avocado, heirloom tomatoes, tads of radish, and dressed with a cilantro lime dressing, were layered with taste. He also creates a selection of classic Mexican dishes, and fresh baked bread with cilantro oil. His southern Mexico style with a speck of French influence is a huge addition to Park City dining.

On our getaway day, and hours before our flight to Denver, an Uber drove Tom to White Pine Touring in Park City. The outdoor retail company specializes in everything from rock climbing and guided mountain biking to road biking, hiking, and utilizing Park City’s 450 miles of trails including the neighboring Uinta Mountains. During the snow months White Pine switches to backcountry and cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Tom booked a two-hour, six mile guided hike with approximately 20 trekkers and 20 mountain bikers, the guide sharing informative details in regards to the topography and environment.

The Pendry Hotel Park City is first class and greatly assisted us in experiencing the other side of Park City.

Quail Lodge & Golf Club

Trisha Ventker

Quail Lodge & Golf Club

Quail Lodge & Golf Club is a golfer’s dream and a paradise of enthusiastic bliss for one of the most difficult games on the planet. I’m literally surrounded by golfers and a shimmering award-winning 18-hole, 6,500 yard, par 71 golf course designed around ten lakes and the Carmel River, that includes a Golf Academy for beginners and those who need to improve their game. The golf club also includes an all-grass 9-hole putting green complimentary for hotel guests, an exclusive golf shop, and the chatter of golfers, some happy, others ready to throw their clubs in the lake. Regrettably, I don’t golf; growing up in New York City wasn’t conducive to acquiring knowledge of the skill, though I might take a turn on the putting green and see what happens.

I’m here with, Peter Small, VP of Sales and Marketing for the Ventker Media Group, a skilled traveler who shares with me his brilliant eye for detail. This is my second trip to Carmel Valley and first to the Quail Lodge & Golf Club which dates to 1964, and I’m overwhelmed with the splendor of nature, the pride of the Carmel Valley residents, and their respect and protection of the area.

Carmel Appreciation

The pride of a destination was so evident when we visited Carmel or as it’s called by some, Carmel-by-the-Sea, an artsy one-square-mile European village on California’s Central Coast, less than a five-mile drive from Quail Lodge, and it just might be unique to the United States. Carmel, with its rich artistic history, is a gathering place for artists, writers and poets, and where actor Clint Eastwood served as mayor from 1986 to 1988. The forward-thinking residents vehemently protecting the village’s stunning nature setting, stating that parking meters and street lights are prohibited in Carmel, and houses, cottages and businesses, are without numbers. New buildings must be built around existing trees, and no higher than a tree. I was also informed that years ago Carmel didn’t allow chewing gum because it often ended up on the walkways. Sustainability is also in place, with a solar farm nearby and village laws or not, Carmel is friendly and welcoming and, in my eyes, not pretentious or showy.

The village is synonymous with dignity and respect, and thankfully you won’t find a trace of graffiti. For a long moment I lingered on Ocean Avenue, the village’s main street, pulled into an entrancing state of repose and relishing the setting as seabirds adrift flitted about in the coolish air. Visitors and residents alike, enjoying a serene and restful moment and a couple holding hands strolled past, both offering a fleeting smile. For me, it’s a village with lost stories of people come and gone, found love, and the mystery of fading time. I felt a strong sense of community and a Carmel Village farewell was an enormous peaceful breath of bracing sea air.

Quail Lodge & Golf Club

Quail Lodge Exuberance

Back at Quail Lodge & Golf Club, I realize the entire Carmel Valley on the Monterey Peninsula, comprising the cities of Carmel, Pebble Beach, Monterey and Pacific Grove, have a classy and compassionate image, synonymous with gratification and care, with the village leading the pack. Quail golfers are also led into the Carmel Valley style. An enforced dress code policy is in place enhancing the refinement of the game, which I’m told many of the award-winning golf course have and are strictly implemented. Not allowed are denim, T-shirts or sweats, while preferred are collared shirts and Bermuda shorts. Nevertheless, the 93 room hotel on 850 acres of pristine soil is an oasis of pleasure and in tune with nature.

We booked Quail for two nights and found the resort enticingly landscaped centered around attractive Mallard Lake, manicured gardens, and the far-reaching golf course. Quail has separate bungalows, one or two-level lodges, and each accommodation has a patio offering an impressive view of the resort and the Santa Lucia mountains touching the clouds in the outlying background. My roomy ranch-style suite was furnished with London based Molton Brown bath products, an accessible Nespresso machine, and hypo-allergenic treated luxury down duvets and linens. After settling in and enjoying the view, the two of us put on our walking shoes and explored Quail with the nature setting keeping my hardworking camera active with striking vistas of the gardens, lake, and golf course. If golfing is not your game, there’s a fitness center and spa for exhausted bodies, and for the active-minded, a heated pool, pickleball and tennis courts, electric bicycles, and a scenic Carmel Valley Land Rover trip to the vineyards that includes an overview of Monterey Peninsula, where you walk in the footsteps of the great writer John Steinbeck at historic Cannery Row in Monterey.

Cuisine

It’s brought to mind in my travels that a destination can be judged by the cuisine, the table setting, menu selection, and most important the chef’s creativity, all a tasty peek at the culture and style of the area, and best of all, unique dishes you might never have attempted at home. Quial’s staff feature fresh organic garden to table cooking, sourced from local farmers and fishermen, and implemented at Quail long before the popular catch phrase, “farm-to-table.” Covey Grill is the resort’s dinner restaurant with indoor/outdoor seating, featuring the chef’s house-made sauces as enjoyed with a delightful carrot soup dusted with pickled carrots and candied sunflower seeds. The ahi tuna was prepared with a creative avocado puree and bits of tangy citrus segments. Edgar’s was our lunch stop, also with indoor/outdoor seating. I ordered a plate of shrimp scampi with the California-style, shrimp tacos for another sitting, but not before a bowl of clam chowder with layers of taste. The service was attentive and efficient and with glorious views from both restaurants.

I found the resort fascinating and for a non-golfer, the temperament and passion of the resort and Carmel Valley is exceedingly extraordinary, and recommended for the entire family.

ZAMA OASIS: REDEFINING LUXURY

Designed to provide incredible privacy and the ultimate in comfort, Zama Oasis in Aldea Zama, Tulum has an exclusive feel and personalized service, with extraordinary attention to detail that creates a relaxed yet upscale ambiance Our tropically-inspired property gives our guests the feeling of being in a “home away from home," by offering a luxurious stay in a high design concept

Our 2 bedroom/ 3 bathroom with private infinity pool penthouse suite is thoughtfully designed and locally inspired, so you can Instagram to your heart’s content!

At Zama Oasis, the high-end finishes and best accessories make the difference between a nice stay and a fantastic getaway you can’t wait to have again Book Today!

2 bedrooms

3 bathrooms

modern kitchen

family room

wraparound deck

private penthouse infinity pool

air conditioned

washer & dryer

on-site parking

Healdsburg, CA: Savoring Sonoma

Sonoma isn’t an attraction, it’s an experience. A visit to the county is a spiritual quest to have your senses heightened. Sonoma simply embodies everything that is wonderful about traveling. It’s like putting on a comfy pair of slippers and your favorite robe. The county simply embodies everything that is wonderful about Northern California. An enduring whimsical energy is the backbone of this vital and energetic rural region, whereas the spirit of America is felt nearby in the impressive redwoods, 800-acre Jack London State Park, and the historic town of Healdsburg, which is a magnificent magnet for artists, galleries, and one-of-a-kind boutiques and craft shops

Only an hour drive north of San Francisco, a mere 35 miles via Highway 121 or State 101 to Sonoma County and another hour to Healdsburg, is an eternity removed. Visitors will find, as I did, a rich assemblage of working farms which encourages one to drop by for a basket of cherries, a jug of apple cider, or a wedge of Sonoma cheese, all perfect for a picnic along the Russian River or in the tree-shaded Healdsburg town plaza. There are 1,450 miles of meandering country roads here, linking family-run farms, and small towns to spectacular beaches, and a rugged, unspoiled coastline.

Vino Anyone?

Exploring the destination with Peter, VP of Sales and Marketing for the Ventker Media Group, it was my first trip to Sonoma County, and I was aware of a fabled tradition of winemaking but didn’t realize that Sonoma county is the largest wine producer in Northern California with 18 viticultural areas, 63,000 acres of vineyards, 60 grape varieties, and 425 plus wineries. Driving through Sonoma County to Healdsburg, I personally enjoyed the maze of green vineyards, so nicely in step with nature, so perfectly organized, and hugely augmenting the magnetism of Sonoma. It seemed as if the vines were planted and carefully systematized by an expert architect from a different planet.

Healdsburg Allure

The 1,600-square-mile county is filled with free-spirited folks who are wildly enthusiastic about their cuisine and wine. Newcomers, when they arrive in search of a region where they can rediscover themselves, put down their roots quickly. It seems to me that Sonoma has as many artists, crafts people, and antique shops as it has wild flowers. The county is a playground for California creativity and produces some of the country’s finest olive oil, mustards and cheese. Petaluma, in Sonoma County, is the Egg Capital of the World and “The Girl & and the Fig” is in the city of Sonoma. This French restaurant is in the attractive Sonoma Plaza and seeks to educate palates to the sensual, crunchy, and luscious qualities of, what else, figs.

Healdsburg has continuously been selected as one of the top 10 towns in the country, and I indeed understand the awards. Edged by orchards and farms, Healdsburg is friendly and attractive with its web of leafy trees and Victorian-style architecture and a showcase central plaza >>>

with one-of-a-kind boutiques, antique shops, galleries, 30 wine tasting rooms, farm-to-table restaurants, hiking and biking paths, and you can test your skills with either a canoe or kayak on the nearby Russian River.

Hotel Healdsburg

We enjoyed two nights at the 56-room, 4-star, boutique hotel, found on the western edge of the town’s plaza, complete with a large garden pool and jacuzzi, bordered by personality-laden knotted trees, and a full-service spa and fitness center. Charlie Palmer’s Dry Creek Kitchen offers French cuisine, lunch and dinner only, and for dog lovers the hotel has dog beds and bowls, if needed. We didn’t have time for a bike ride, maybe next time, but they are available at no charge as is the valet parking, Wi-Fi, and buffet breakfast. After a busy day, the snug and chic Frette Italian sheets were a delightful blessing.

Tipping a Glass at The Jordan Vineyard & Winery

Visiting the heart of the Sonoma wine country it was time for a bit of wine tasting. There are enough selections to keep us busy for an eternity, but our time at Jordan in the hills of the Alexander Valley was spectacular. Family owned, their 1,200 acres that surround the winery and chateau run on solar energy and are certified sustainable, of which 125 acres are planted grapevines amidst nature and two lakes. The vine covered chateau reminded us of something that could have been lifted from the French wine country and placed here, the French flag still flying. The delightful trait of travel, as I have noted in other travel articles, is the expectation to understand and absorb a destination. The art of creating wine is complex. Jordan’s first planting was in 1972. They use French oak barrels from Bordeaux and stated “You don’t drink wine, you taste it, and always with food because it enhances the dining experience,” so we experienced the Tour & Tasting with delights created by the Jordan chef. The sizeable tasting room home to large oak barrels and windows with views of the vineyard was a journey of flavors with their Bordeaux-style blends, and with Jordan sharing the history and details behind each varietal. First up was a taste of a 2021 Chardonnay, light and tasty, accompanied by Brentwood corn, estate tarragon, hazelnuts, and the chef’s Reserve Caviar. The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux influenced, was layered with hints of fruit and paired with marinated wild mushrooms and local salumi, aged Parmesan cheese, and garden celery mixed with Jordan Estate Extra Virgin Olive Oil. A 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon paired with truffle fondue and bread, fruit crackers and Jordan Estate Extra Virgin Olive Oil, was another favorite with suggestions of blackberries, rosemary and spices.

I did feel life surging around me as I strolled through the vineyard. The owner, John Jordan, is a leader in sustainable winemaking practices to reduce the winery’s carbon footprint, installing solar panels, water conservation programs, and organic and biodynamic farming practices in the vineyard. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a curious wine devotee, a visit to the Jordan Winery is a journey that delights the senses while embracing the remarkable landscape in the midst of wine country brilliance.

Dining Barndiva

Another Healdsburg memory for my travel diary is Barndiva. A Michelin star winner opened in 2004 with a rustic yet elegant ambiance, Barndiva features Sonoma’s premium farm-to-table ingredients Wednesday through Sunday. Dinner is served prix fixe with two choices

for each course. The dinner throughout was artistically inspired and with a wine list featuring the best of Sonoma. The first course was Raw Diver Scallop Tartare, or a garlic infused Persian Cucumber spiced with black vinegar, mint and dill. Second course offered Ajo Blanco or Egg Yolk Dumplings, a favorite for both of us, made with bits of bacon, onion and radish, grana Padano and a selection of herbs. The third course was a Mt. Lassen Trout, Potato Fondant or Roasted Duck, created with sauce au poivre and delicious butter braised turnips. Dessert choices were a Paris Brest, a classic French pastry, another favorite for both of us, or Burned Sugar and Rosemary Pudding. Again, our hats off to Executive Chef Erik Anderson, a significant Healdsburg talent. The prix fixe dinner experience for one is $115.

One afternoon we decided to take a stroll to the town’s central plaza, named one of America’s “Most Beautiful Town Squares” by Travel and Leisure magazine and explore the shops. We stopped by the Susan Graf Limited store featuring elegant men’s and women’s clothing, and chatted with Susan, a friendly woman eager to share, who first opened her store in 1989. She said, “Across the street was a grass lot before Hotel Healdsburg was built by Circe and her father Merritt Sher, those two raised the bar in town. I first came here to visit a friend when I was living in Switzerland. I loved the vibe of Healdsburg, it reminded me of Bern, Switzerland, especially the town square and the gazebo, so I had to move here.”

Hazel Hill at the Montage

Our farewell dinner was at the prestigious Montage resort and the Hazel Hill restaurant orchestrated by Executive Chef Jason Pringle and Sommelier, Paul Coker. We had heard that Hazel Hill was among the best in Sonoma, so we selected the chef’s tasting menu. First up was an attractive plate of flavorsome peas with purple haze, radish, and splashed with Daniels vinaigrette, along with a taste of the Merry Edwards Sauvignon Blanc, Russian River Valley 2020. This was followed by smoked duck infused with spring garlic, egg and consommé paired with a glass of the Sonoma Coast Brick and Mortar Rosé 2020 and nine herb tortellini complemented by Delta asparagus, pecorino, and a truffle too. The dish was paired with an Ernest Vineyards Bennett Valley 2021 Pinot Noir. Next to arrive at the table was a halibut dish with spring onions, favas with a nutty and buttery flavor, and ramps, a garlicky wild onion. The wine was Williams Selyem 2021 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, a perfect pairing. A nice surprise was a Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon, 2018, served with a medium rare, Westholme New York Strip with a side of Bordelaise sauce. Lastly, I completed my Sonoma dining experience with a strawberry cream cake, served with blackberry, basil, and white rhubarb sorbet and paired with a 2015 Mauritson Port, which I skipped because my taste buds were totally satisfied. Sonoma County is a destination to be explored. I’m enthusiastically looking forward to another visit!

Hotel Healdsburg

hotelhealdsburg.com

25 Matheson Street

Healsburg, CA 95448

HEALTH&BEAUTY

HEALTH&BEAUTY

Fall Makeup 411…in 4 Easy Steps

Michael Moore

“Fall Makeup 411…in 4 Easy Steps”

Michael Moore

This season will continue to be dominated with a throwback of the 90’s. The minimal look of a clean, fresh, and hydrated face. This is always a favorite for most people. As I always say this is the simple 3-minute look. Ageless, fresh to the point.

Blush, blush, blush

Blush is here to stay…but try something a bit more modern: a crème blush. They are very trendy right now. I love the hydrated “I look like I wake up this way kind of look.” For fall, try taking a bolder approach by easily layering it on a bit more.

Lips, lips, lips

Lips will be making a statement this fall. Bold does not have to be bright…but why not for a bit more fun? Think about a statement of definition and put a bit of depth into the lips. Think about bold burgundy, red, pinks, purple, and of course some orange.

Lashes. lashes, lashes

Accentuate the lashes, but your lashes. Not the ones you have paid to have put on. Build up the lashes. Revitalash is the perfect way to get your lashes thicker, longer, and darker. Follow up with a navy liner into the lash line and finish it all off with a clean and defined navy mascara. The Moore For Life mascara will give you beautiful and enhanced lashes. Looking bold, built up and full-on impact. I prefer to curl after you mascara application with your heated Blinc Lash Curler. No need for an expensive lash lift after using this winning trio.

Make fall 2023 something new or old with a new twist.

mooreforlife.com

Eventually, the quality of the Colorado lifestyle—the healthy, natural atmosphere that inspires his technique—drew him out west, where he opened Moore For Life in Denver’s own center of chic, Cherry Creek North. Today, Michael works regularly with print and television media for photo shoots, fashion content, and special events. His makeup artistry has graced numerous publications such as INStyle and The New York Times, and television shows Oprah and The Today Show.

SELF DISCOVERY

DISCOVERY

This

If

Suit Could Talk: The Power and Vivacity of “Dress for Success Denver” and the Impact it has Beyond Suiting Women

The Power and Vivacity of “Dress for Success Denver”and the Impact it has Beyond Suiting Women

A significant degree of my success has been attributed to the resources of Dress for Success, which for me was a life-saving support for a productive transformation.

While overcoming a painful and violent domestic occurrence some 20 years ago and on the verge of becoming homeless, I was forced to acquire new skills and better employment to provide for two small children, not unlike countless other women. I was employed at a college striving to become part of their administrative staff, but the essential situation in the office required professional dress attire, which I was sorely lacking.

I was both tentative and fearful that I wouldn’t be acknowledged in the interview, and wondered how do I present myself with confidence for a job that I so desperately need, and yet am so poorly dressed? Thankfully, I was introduced to Dress for Success. Even during my suiting, I still lacked confidence and conviction, but after I was fully dressed something happened. I felt powerful, and looking at myself in the mirror I said, “I have the suit, and I’m going to get the job.” I did get the job, later I was promoted, and my life was dramatically changed for the better.

I know first-hand that there are a few important steps that can help someone on the verge of homelessness. Dress for Success Denver not only provides the suiting, but they go a step further and reach inside the woman to see herself, to inspire confidence, courage and belief in who she can be, who she is going to be, and who she is. Their esteemed programs include Suiting, Career Center, Financial Literacy, and the Professional Women’s Group (PWG), which supports women to provide for themselves and their families and builds hope and confidence.

Celebrate, Friday, September 29th at Infinity Park Event Center

This year Dress for Success Denver will be celebrating 16 years of assisting more than 20,000 women at the annual ‘Sweet 16’ fall fundraiser, featuring the Decade Runway Show with DFS Denver participants and fashions donated by local designers. The unveiling of the final remolding of the 20-foot box truck, the “Butterfly Bus” Transformation Center, which was made possible through a donation from Schomp Subaru. Guests will be able to take a tour of this wonderful mobile resource that will be on the road this Fall.

Executive Director, Amara Martin said, “We’ll be able to go outside the Denver metro area and beyond, reaching women at-risk and those living in pockets of poverty. Women deserve the same rights and ability to be successful no matter where they come from or what situation, and that’s what we believe.”

denver.dressforsuccess.org

MUST

HAVES

MUST VISIT Fall Ideas

CATBIRD HOTEL

RiNo’s hotel, Catbird, for the month of October, offers the Catbird & Chill Scary Movie Experience for guests to book a spooky season in-room weekend binge.

At Catbird, each guest room features a theater-like viewing experience with giant windows that transform into oversized viewing screens and drop-from-the-ceiling 4K Ultra HD Projectors with streaming service capabilities that you can watch with a front-row seat atop the patent-pending lofted bed. With this experience, however, the hotel also provides a scary movie menu, from thrillers and horrors to family-friendly Halloween amusement, and makes things interactive (beyond tossing the popcorn in the air at a jump-scare) with scary movie bingo. Also included: Movie theatre candy popcorn, credit to The Red Barber and, for those brave enough, two tickets to the world-famous 13th Floor Haunted House, one of Denver’s ultimate Halloween events.

3770 Walnut Street

Denver. CO 80205

catbirdhotel.com

EUGENIA KIM

HARLOWE SLATE BLUE HAT

Slate blue wool felt geometric-crown wide-brim fedora with slate blue shiny satin ruched band. crown: 4” / brim: 4”

$455.00

eugeniakim.com

HERMES H08 WATCH 42MM

Graphene composite watch and sunburst satin-brushed ceramic bezel with mirror-polished chamfers, grey transferred minutes track, Hermès Manufacture movement H1837, black-gold treated dial, grained center, strap in black rubber

Made in Switzerland

$8,250.00

hermes.com

MUST HAVES Fall Ideas

JIMMY CHOO Didi 45

Silver Liquid Metal Leather Pointed Pumps

Didi in liquid metal leather is a striking design with a pointed toe silhouette. This slingback shoe features a strap fastening and a modern kick heel.

Pair with your evening ensembles to bring statement shine to your wardrobe.

Liquid metal leather, Pointed toe Strap fastening

Heel height: 45mm/1.7 inches

Made in Italy

Italian sizing. Fits true to size.

$975.00

jimmychoo.com

GRAF VON FABER-CASTELL’S FOUNTAIN PEN GUILLOCHE RHODIUM M

Faber-Castell, one of the world’s largest and oldest manufacturers of pens, pencils, art and office supplies, was founded in 1761 and has a fascinating history.

Guilloches - ornamental patterns of fine, engraved lines - originally adorned precious watches and accessories such as the legendary Fabergé eggs.

Graf von Faber-Castell uses this traditional jewelling technique to transform the writing instruments in the Guilloche series into true pieces of jewellery: The precious resin barrel is given a filigree pattern line by line and then further refined in manual lacquering and polishing processes.

The Guilloche models are available in many expressive colour variations, as well as in a rhodium-plated finish.

Fountain Pen: $455.00

graf-von-faber-castell.com

GUIDE

GUIDE

Denver’s leading guide to highly-rated hotels, restaurants and culture

The Brown Palace

The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa is aptly named with its palatial atrium aweing guests of all ages. The hotel first opened in 1892 and has kept its historical charm while providing modern and luxurious amenities. A walking tour of the hotel is available to enlighten visitors of the heart and soul that went into its design and highlights special details only visible to a knowledgeable eye. Despite the close proximity to a bustling downtown, guests enjoy the many restaurant options on-site, including afternoon tea time in the stunning atrium, complete with devonshire cream shipped in directly from England, and the culinary mastery offered at the Palace Arms restaurant, served in a room with hand painted wallpaper and surrounded by ancient relics.

brownpalace.com

321 17th Street, Denver, CO 80202 (303) 297-3111

HOTELS

The Crawford Hotel

The Crawford is a truly unique hotel, located in Denver’s Union Station. Designed within the original walls of this historical landmark, which dates back to 1881, guests find themselves enjoying a new room experience at each visit, as no two rooms are the same. The hotel boasts historical yet modern design features, with rooms that feel cozy yet luxurious. Guests looking for a peaceful atmosphere can curl up with a good book in one of the reading nooks while those looking for more excitement need only walk downstairs to The Great Hall. Also known as Denver’s Living Room, The Great Hall features a vibrant array of shops and restaurants with award winning chefs. Whether patrons are enjoying a craft beer from the Terminal Bar or competing in a friendly game of shuffleboard, The Great Hall brings people together, a perfect reflection of the building’s original intention.

thecrawfordhotel.com

1701 Wynkoop Street

Denver, CO 80202

(720) 460-3700

Four Seasons

Four Seasons hotels are known for their luxurious accommodations and unmatched customer service, and the Four Seasons Denver is no exception. From the moment guests enter the hotel, they are treated to an experience like no other. Large suites with stunning mountain views, unforgettable meals at the famed EDGE Restaurant & Bar, relaxing treatments at the full-service spa, and delicious cocktails served poolside at the rooftop pool oasis, are just a few of the unique amenities awaiting Four Seasons guests. Its convenient location across from the Denver Center for the Performing Arts complex and just steps away from Larimer Square and the 16th Street Mall, allows guests easy access to shows, shopping, restaurants, sporting activities, and exciting nightlife offered in downtown Denver.

fourseasons.com/denver

1111 14th Street

Denver, CO 80202

(303) 389-3000

HOTELS

The Gaylord of the Rockies

DLocated minutes from Denver International Airport in the idyllic All American City of Aurora, Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center will feature over 1,500 guest rooms including 114 well-appointed suites and over 485,000 square feet of extraordinary meeting and convention space. As a gateway to the Rockies, Gaylord Rockies will offer memorable experiences to its guests with first-class restaurants, a luxurious spa and salon, diverse shops, winding waterways and picture perfect sunset views. Rustic alpine charm and exciting “open-air” activity make this Rocky Mountain Front Range retreat an adventure in itself.

gaylordhotelsnews.com

6700 North Gaylord Rockies Blvd.

Aurora, Colorado 80019

(720) 452-6900

The Oxford Hotel

The Oxford Hotel, in addition to being one of the most popular luxury hotels in downtown Denver, is the oldest operating hotel. It has seen many enhancements through the years, perfecting the art that is a luxury hotel, while preserving the character and integrity of its history. As a registered landmark on the National Register for Historic Places, and boasting a stunning display of art and historical architecture, it’s no wonder the hotel receives guests from across the globe.

theoxfordhotel.com

1600 17th Street

Denver, CO 80202

(303) 628-5400

HOTELS

The Ritz-Carlton

The Ritz-Carlton Denver, located in the heart of downtown, lives up to its name with quality and modern sophistication incorporated into every inch of the hotel. Special attention to detail is evident throughout and provides guests with a tranquil setting to enjoy a luxurious home away from home. Even the youngest of guests are considered VIP’s and eligible to take part in the Ritz Kids program. A myriad of dining options are available within walking distance of the hotel but many guests enjoy paying tribute to famed Broncos quarterback John Elway, by indulging in the fine dining offered on site at ELWAY’S steakhouse.

ritzcarlton.com/denver

1881 Curtis Street Denver, CO 80202 (303) 312-3800

Acova

Owned and operated by restaurant veterans, Sean and Betsy Workman, Acova debuted in the Lower Highlands area of Denver in June of 2018 and was designed to be the neighborhood joint for friends and family. The kitchen creates an eclectic menu for all lifestyles and dietary restrictions and serves lunch, happy hour, dinner and weekend brunch.

acovarestaurantcom

3651 Navajo Street, Denver, CO 80202 (303) 736.2718

Mon - Thurs

Fri 11:30 am - 10:00 pm 11:30 - 11:00 pm

Sat 10:00 am - 11 pm

Sun 10:00 am - 3:00 pm

RESTAURANTS

Barolo Grill

One of Colorado’s best northern Italian restaurants, Barolo Grill has also been recognized as one of the world’s best restaurants for wine. In 2018 Barolo was honored with both Wine Spectator’s Grand Award and Wine Enthusiasts’ Best 100 Wine Restaurants award. Known for hand crafted modern Piemontese cuisine and knowledgeable, attentive staff, Barolo is the perfect choice for special occasions or a great night out. Their seasonally changing menus highlight items from the staff’s annual pilgrimage to Northern Italy and features locally sourced ingredients from regional farms and artisans.

barologrilldenver.com

3030 East Sixth Avenue, Denver, CO 80206 (303) 393.1040

Dinner Tues - Thurs 5:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Fri - Sat 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Sun - Mon closed

Ash’kara

Ash’Kara, a globally inspired restaurant with influences from Israel, the Middle East and Mesopotamia, is a collaborative partnership with the restaurateur team of chef Daniel Asher and Josh Dinar (River and Woods, the forthcoming Tributary Food Hall in Golden and Mother Tongue at Broadway Market) and Culinary Creative Group (Bar Dough, Senor Bear, Morin and the forthcoming Maine Shack). Ash’Kara is located in Denver’s Lower Highlands neighborhood.

ashkaradenver.com

2005 W 33rd Avenue, Denver, CO 80211 (303) 537-4407

Mon - Tues 3:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Wed - Sun 11:00 am - 2:00 pm

- 10 p.m.

RESTAURANTS

Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse

The restaurant features warm dining spaces, with local stone and classic mahogany throughout to create an unparalleled ambiance. Enjoy Denver’s premiere smoking lounge with more than 65 cigars to choose from in our humidor. Located in the prestigious Greenwood Village area, it’s the perfect place to reconnect over an intimate dinner and is one of the best steakhouses in Denver.

delfriscos.com

8100 E Orchard Road, Denver, CO 80111 (303) 796-0100

Lunch Weekdays 11:30 am - 2 :00 pm

Dinner Mon - Thurs 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Fri- Sat 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm

Sunday 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Cocktails check website

Guard and Grace

There’s a reason that Guard and Grace is the first name on people’s lips when asked for a steakhouse recommendation in Denver. Chef and owner Troy Guard wows his patrons with a fine dining experience featuring mouth watering steaks and a delicious raw bar, turning any social gathering into a celebration.

guardandgrace.com

1801 California Street, Denver, CO 80202 (303) 293-8500

Dinner Sun - Thurs 4:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Fri - Sat 4:00 pm - 10:00 pm

RESTAURANTS

Le French

Founded by Senegalese French sisters Aminata and Rougui Dia, Le French is a gourmet, casual-chic French bakery and bistro. Le French specializes in high-end pastries and elevated modern Parisian cuisine with global influences, a nod to the sisters’ heritage.

lefrenchdenver.com

4901 S. Newport St. Denver, CO 80237 (720) 710-8963

Tues - Thurs 11:00 am - 9:00 pm

Fri 11:00 am - 10:00 pm

Sat Sun 8:00 am - 10:00 pm 8:00 am - 2:30 pm

Le Bilboquet

Reminiscent of a charming French bistro, Le Bilboquet Denver is located in Cherry Creek North within the St. Paul Collection. The restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere paired with simple, classic French cooking - bringing a slice of Parisian café culture to the neighborhood. Le Bilboquet is a natural gathering spot to enjoy a chilled bottle of rosé alfresco or classic bistro fare like croque monsieur paired with a local draft beer.

lebilboquetdenver.com

299 St. Paul Street, Denver, CO 80206 (303) 835-9999

Mon - Fri 11:30 am - 9:00 pm

Sat 11:00 am - 10:00 pm

Sun 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm

Sat - Sun 10:30 am - 9:00 pm

RESTAURANTS

Spuntino

Spuntino Food & Wine claims a “Global Mind, Colorado Body, and Italian Soul” and the statement could not be more true. The owners, a husband and wife team, bring their passion for Italian food and culture to the Highlands region of Denver. Fresh, house-made focaccia, gnocchi, and gelato are enhanced by an extensive wine list and intimate setting.

spuntinodenver.com

2639 W. 32nd Avenue, Denver, CO 80211 (303) 433-0949

Dinner Wed

Thurs - Fri 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Sat - Sun 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Happy Hour Tues- Sun 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm

Tamayo

Patterned after Tequileiras in Mexico, Tamayo invites patrons in for delicious small plates and specialty margaritas designed to perfection, inciting conversation and community. This modern take on Mexican cuisine is not found at a typical Mexican restaurant. Served on the terrace while watching a spectacular sunset over the Rocky Mountains, first time visitors are sure to return.

eattamayo.com

1400 Larimer Street, Denver, CO 80202 (720) 946-1433

Lunch Mon - Fri

RESTAURANTS

The Corner Office

The Corner Office, located in downtown Denver, opened in 2008 by restaurateur Peter Karpinski of Sage Restaurant Group. The Corner Office is where enjoying great food and cocktails is your only assignment Loosen up, kick back and slide into prime time with colleagues, friends or someone special. Designed with a modern eye for comfort and good times, The Corner Office features a bustling bar, energetic dining rooms, communal table and private event rooms.

thecornerofficedenver.com 1401 Curtis Street, Denver, CO 80202 (303) 825-6500

Mon - Thurs 6:00 am - 11:00 pm

Fri- 6:00 am - 12:00 am

Saturday Sunday

7:00 am - 12:00 am 7 :00am - 11 :00 pm

Toro

In the tradition of Central and South American convivial dining culture, Toro Denver features a ceviche bar, small plates, and family-style entrees, plus, hand-muddled cocktails and local beer and wine. Toro features authentic Latin ingredients, international flavors, and artful dishes at their Cherry Creek Denver restaurant.

torodenver.com

150 Clayton Lane, Ste B, Denver, CO 80206 (303) 253-3000 Brunch

RESTAURANTS

The Fort

The Fort, an award-winning Denver western restaurant located just southwest of Denver, is one of the nation’s most recognized establishments and sells more buffalo steaks than any other independently owned restaurant in the country. Featuring fine beef, buffalo, game and seafood, The Fort’s menu offers a tantalizing selection of old and new foods from the Early West.

thefort.com

The Fort 19192 Highway 8 Morrison, CO 80465 (303) 697-4771 Mon -Sun 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Hidden Gems: Denver’s Best Brunches

Bistro Le Roux

Bistro LeRoux, Chef Lon Symensma’s ode to the Meditteranean bistro, is gorgeously appointed and features an inventive menu of decadent fare in the heart of Denver’s LoDo neighborhood. From savory Croques Madame to decadent fresh-baked Cinnamon Rolls, LeRoux’s menu draws inspiration from Symensma’s time spent training (and eating!) in kitchens across Europe.

lerouxdenver.com

1510 16th Street Denver, Colorado 80202

(720) 845-1673

Brunch Sat - Sun 10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Hidden Gems: Denver’s Best Brunches

Brown Palace

Perked in an elegant corner of The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa, Ellyngton’s is a stylishly appointed breakfast and lunchroom that offers a classy Sunday Brunch. With an extensive selection of exquisite menu items – guests can relish entrees like the prime rib quiche or the cured salmon toast. Patrons will get a taste of the hotel’s rich 130-year history by dining among the ornate décor and 19th century structures. .

brownpalace.com

321 17th Street, Denver, CO 80202 (303) 297-3111

Brunch at Ellyngton’s Sun 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Hilton Denver Inverness

Set against the backdrop of the picturesque Rocky Mountains, Hilton Denver Inverness’ Champagne Sunday brunch features over a 100 offerings each week. A local favorite, the Sunday brunch is hosted in The Garden Terrace and offers an omelet station; shellfish display, including shucked oysters; smoked salmon; snow crab legs; bay scallops; and more. Additionally, a wide display of mini desserts and weekly rotating dessert flambe is available. Prices start at $64.95 per person and $32 for children ages 6-12 (guests under five are complimentary).

theclubatinverness.com/garden-terrace

200 Inverness Drive West, Englewood, CO 80112 303-397-6411

Brunch Sun 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

Hidden Gems: Denver’s Best Brunches

Tamayo

Tamayo’s Bottomless Margarita Brunch is everything you want and everything you need going into fall and winter brunch dates with friends. The free-flowing small plates and brunch cocktails are offered every Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Enjoy unlimited small plates featuring delectable favorites like huevos rancheros, carnitas tacos and tres leches paired with mimosas, margaritas and Bloody Marias.

Bottomless Food & Drink $60 - Bottomless Food Only $40.

eattamayo.com

1400 Larimer Street, Denver, Colorado 80202 (720) 946-1433

Brunch Sat - Sun 10:30 am - 3:00 pm

Toro

Denver is a city built on brunch and Toro’s brunch menu is a pioneer in pairing breakfast favorites with unique cultural cuisines from all over the world. Toro’s bottomless brunch is perfect to enjoy with friends and family in their outdoor courtyard that’s hidden within the dining room. Offered Saturday and Sunday with a bottomless food and drink option for $49 and bottomless food only for $30, this brunch is exclusive but surely one you’ll never forget. Their new brunch menu, just launched this month, features exotic dishes with Latin flair like the Zucchini Tiradito, huevos rancheros, shrimp corn enchiladas, churrasco and eggs and quinoa-fried rice. Toro is also introducing a new brunch dessert, which is sure to become a fan favorite: churro bread pudding!

torodenver.com

150 Clayton Lane, Ste B, Denver, CO 80206 (303) 253-3000

Brunch Sat - Sun 10:30 am - 3:00 pm

Hidden

Gems:

Denver’s Best Brunches

Snooze A.M. Eatery

Snooze specializes in innovative breakfasts made with responsibly sourced, fresh ingredients and a bright, upbeat atmosphere. The menu features Snooze’s signature Pineapple Upside Down and Blueberry Danish Pancakes, imaginative Benedicts, as well as breakfast sandwiches, omelets and breakfast tacos. Diners can customize their meals and taste their way through three pancake flavors with the Signature Pancake Flight, or sample two different Benedicts with the Benny Duo option. The full bar is replete with morning cocktails, local beers and spiked coffee beverages.

snoozeeatery.com

101 N. Broadway, Suite 1, Denver, 80203 ((720) 443-4540

Brunch Daily weekdays: 6:30 am - 2:30 pm

weekends 6:30 am - 4:00 pm

Jill’s at The St. Julien

Although in Boulder, Jill’s definately is worth the drive from Denver! Brunch has returned to Jill’s Restaurant on both Saturdays and Sundays, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., with a new menu from executive chef Rich Byers. The thoughtful menu features fresh, local and dynamic ingredients with dishes such as a brioche croque madame with black truffle béchamel, Gruyère, an overeasy egg and River Bear ham, Shrimp & Grits with Gayla’s Georgia grits, and various Benedicts. Plus, brunch-goers can enjoy a buildyour-own Tito’s Bloody Mary Bar loaded with mixes, toppings, hot sauce and more, in addition to bottomless mimosas.

stjulien.com

900 Walnut St., Boulder, CO 80302 (720) 406-7399

Brunch Sat - Sun 7:00 am - 3:00 pm

Hidden Gems: Denver’s Best Brunches

Local Jones

Local Jones, a neighborhood American Bistro and Bar, is nestled in the heart of the bustling Cherry Creek North. The socially engaging atmosphere features indoor and outdoor seating where friends and soon-to-be friends come together to celebrate what we all cherish: great food, great drinks, and great company. Enjoy a newly launched brunch menu by Executive Chef Brendalee Vialpando and Executive Pastry Chef Saura Kline - featuring brunch favorites including Saura’s Jerusalem Bagel, LJ cinnamon roll and the pork green chilli burrito. On Sundays, enjoy “Vinyl Brunch” from 10AM - 2 PM where cocktails flow as the vinyl spins.

halcyonhotelcherrycreek.com

249 Columbine St, Denver, CO 80206 (720) 772-5022

Brunch Sat - Sun 7:30 am - 2:00 pm

Postino

The weekend brunch at Postino is in a category all its own and will appeal to Highlands Ranch residents and visitors looking for a curated selection of farm-fresh comfort foods like Umbria Egg Toast featuring scrambled egg with crèma and white truffle, crispy oyster mushroom, and parmigiano reggiano atop a toasted ciabatta, and the Smoked Salmon Carpaccio with Sicilian garlic yogurt, smoked salmon, capers, pickled red onion, avocado, and dill. Brunch cocktail highlights include the Lectric’ Eye composed of Cappelletti, Dolin Blanc, fresh lemon juice, and soda, and the Sherry Mary featuring Oloroso Sherry.

postinowinecafe.com

1497 Park Central Dr., Highlands Ranch, CO, 80129 (720) 410-8600

Brunch Sat - Sun 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

Hidden Gems: Denver’s Best Brunches

Urban Farmer

Located in Denver’s charming LoDo neighborhood Urban Farmer Steakhouse offers an extensive selection of brunch offerings, including classic dishes like buttermilk pancakes, waffles and French toast, and unique options such as rabbit hash, served with fingerling potato, endive slaw and confit egg yolk. The restaurant also offers a Bloody Mary bar, encouraging guests to concoct their own creations each weekend for just $25. The buffet is complete with 26 different toppings, including olives, celery, pickled vegetables, fresh cucumber, fresh horseradish, togarashi, inhouse candied bacon with brown sugar and chili flake, a selection of spices, house made bloody mix and much, much more. For those who prefer bubbles, the mimosa bar features a selection of freshly-squeezed orange, grapefruit and cranberry juices and a selection of up to four berry toppings.

urbanfarmersteakhouse.com 1659 Wazee St, Denver CO 80202 (303) 262-6070

Brunch Sat - Sun 9:00 am - 2:00 pm

A Tsagas Furs and Leathers Designs

A Tsagas Furs and Leather Designs is a Leather and Fur Clothing Store in Denver, CO that creates customized designs, offers alterations, and even restyles your old fur and leather pieces into something current and stylish. If you’re looking for edgy fashions made of leather or fur, visit us today or contact us to find out more about our unique services

atsagasdesigns.com

974 S Monaco Pkwy

Denver, CO 80224

(720) 941-3877

Monday-Friday 10:00 am- 7:00 pm

Saturday 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Sunday CLOSED

LUXE FAVS

Gnat Jewelers

Today, father and son create a beautiful array of custom jewelry ranging from classic to contemporary. While Gnat Original Design is well known for our exquisite engagement rings, we also craft one-of-a-kind pieces in the entire range of jewelry using precious metals, fine gemstones and certified diamonds.

gnatjewelers.com

250 Columbine Street Suite 130 Denver, CO 80206 (303) 355-5050

Monday 11:00 am- 5:00 pm

Tues - Fri 11:00 am - 6:00 pm

Saturday 10:00 am- 6:00 pm

Moore For Life

Michael Moore has worked in the cosmetics industry since 1988 with brand leaders such as Bobbi Brown Essentials, Chanel, and Estée Lauder. In New York City, he was often seen backstage during fashion week, supporting major designers such as Oscar de la Renta, Bob Mackie, and Vera Wang. Michael’s client list included Oscar winners, First Ladies of the United States, and royalty.

Eventually, the quality of the Colorado lifestyle—the healthy, natural atmosphere that inspires his technique— drew him out west, where he opened Moore For Life in Denver’s own center of chic, Cherry Creek North. mooreforlife.com

3035 East 3rd Avenue

Denver, CO 80206

(303) 484-1857

Tues- Saturday 10 am - 6 pm

LUXE FAVS

Hermes

A family company whose craftspeople make, often by hand and always with love , bags and belts, diaries and dishes, scarves and shoes, perfumes and purses, ties and travelling furniture, as well as gloves, hats, watches, jewelery and clothes.

hermes.com

Cherry Creek Shoping Center

3000 E. First Avenue, Space P-206 Denver, CO 80206

(303) 388-0700

Tues-Saturday 11:00 am- 7:00 pm

Sunday CLOSED

Denver Art Museum

The Denver Art Museum continues to wow visitors daily with its extensive display of world-class art, featuring painting and sculpture disciplines, modern and contemporary art, photography, textile art, and other representations from around the world. Temporary exhibitions provide a constant source of new art to view and appreciate. Special activities and games for kids are incorporated into the museum, allowing for an engaging and enlightening experience for all ages.

denverartmuseum.org

100 W. 14th Avenue Parkway, Denver, CO 80204 (720) 865-5000

Mon - Thurs 10am - 5pm

Fri 10am - 8pm

Sat- Sun 10am - 5pm

Denver Center for the Performing Arts

DThe Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA) is the largest non-profit theatre organization in the country. From Broadway tours including performances such as Phantom of the Opera, Rent, Les Miserables, and Wicked, to more intimate theatres featuring comedy shows and other events, and education for all levels of thespian talent, the DCPA offers something for everyone.

denvercenter.org/ 1101 13th Street, Denver, CO 80204

Administrative offices: (303) 893-4100

Main Box Office: (303) 893-4100

Mon - Sun 10am - 8pm

Closed major holidays

Denver Botanic Gardens

The Denver Botanic Gardens offers visitors an escape to a tranquil, 24-acre floral oasis. It features endless trails to meander while surrounded by a stunning display of natural beauty, showcasing local plants as well as plants from around the world. Many enjoy stopping in at the Offshoots Cafe for a coffee and croissant before continuing their journey. Families enjoy the Mordecai Children’s Garden, a rooftop garden designed for kids, providing them with a safe space to explore and connect with nature.

botanicgardens.org

1007 York Street, Denver, CO 80206 (720) 865-3500

Mon - Sun 9am - 5pm

CULTURE

Downtown Aquarium

The Downtown Aquarium is truly an underwater adventure with exhibits featuring creatures in multiple habitats across the globe. From the desert to the rainforest and everything in between, visitors of all ages will marvel at the beauty of this underwater life. Aquarium visits are enhanced by dining at the aquarium restaurant where delicious meals are served with a view of a 50,000 gallon aquarium containing tropical fish, sharks, and even a mermaid or two.

aquariumrestaurants.com/downtownaquariumdenver

700 Water Street, Denver, CO 80211 (303) 561-4450

Sun-Thurs 10am - 9pm

Fri-Sat 10am - 9:30pm

Denver Museum of Nature & Science

The DMNS provides visitors with multiple exhibits to explore and perform hands-on activities. Visit the Health exhibit to test your strength and view your self-portrait from 50 years in the future. Explore the Space Odyssey exhibit and experiment with the impacts of water, air, and magnets. Walk through the Wildlife dioramas to experience the magnificent size of a bear. The Discovery Zone was specially designed for small children and gives them the opportunity to expand the use of their fives senses within a safe environment. Museum visitors also enjoy the many shows offered at the IMAX and Planetarium.

dmns.org/ 2001 Colorado Blvd., Denver, CO 80205 (303) 370-6000

Museum Mon - Sun 9am - 5pm except Dec 25)

Shop Mon - Sun 9am - 5pm

Dock Hours 8am - 2:30pm

CULTURE

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