Luxist http://www.luxist.com Luxist http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Luxist http://www.luxist.com en-us Copyright 2010 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[The Classicist: Cheers to the 1st Ever Independent Champagne Invitational]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/08/the-classicist-cheers-to-the-1st-ever-independent-champagne-inv/http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/08/the-classicist-cheers-to-the-1st-ever-independent-champagne-inv/http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/08/the-classicist-cheers-to-the-1st-ever-independent-champagne-inv/#commentsFiled under: , ,


On April 16th -18th in New Orleans, more than 50 of the nation's top sommeliers will be on hand to pour some of the world's most sought after wines at the Independent Champagne and Sparkling Wine Invitational (ICSWI), the nation's first ever conference devoted exclusively to independently produced champagnes and sparkling wines. Industry experts will educate attendees, pouring wines produced in the grower and independent spirit ranging from the superb high-end cuvées of the Grande Marques to the terroir-driven jewels of the small producers. ICSWI sommeliers will represent cities and regions from across the nation, with restaurant representation including Per Se, The French Laundry, NYC's Eleven Madison Park, Aspen's The Little Nell, and Blue Hill at Stone Barns. All have broad wine industry experience including winemaking, retail, restaurant management and buying for private collectors.

Today, there are over 19,000 independent growers in the Champagne region, accounting for nearly 88% of all vineyard land in the region, with around 5,000 of these growers producing wine from their own grapes. These "fizz farmers" if you will are master artisans, controlling what happens on their farm every day unlike at some of the more large-scale industrial operations at the corporate labels. Worldwide, independent Sparkling Wine production includes Cava in Spain, Asti and Prosecco in Italy, Cap Classique in South Africa, Sekt in Germany and the sparkling wines of California. All together, there are thousands of champagne and sparkling wines to chose from, making the grower category ideal for authenticity, quality, value and ultimately choice. Smaller vineyards allow more site specific wines to be created for a truer reflection of terroir, and their extraordinary attention to detail is reflected in each grower's unique product.

Gallery: Independent Champagne

Continue reading The Classicist: Cheers to the 1st Ever Independent Champagne Invitational

LuxistThe Classicist: Cheers to the 1st Ever Independent Champagne Invitational originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 08 Mar 2010 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>champagneNew OrleansNewOrleanssparkling wineSparklingWinevineyardwineMon, 08 Mar 2010 09:02:00 EST<![CDATA[WWF "Earth Hour" Enjoys Continued Support from Luxury Hotel Chains]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/06/wwf-earth-hour-enjoys-continued-support-from-luxury-hotel-chai/http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/06/wwf-earth-hour-enjoys-continued-support-from-luxury-hotel-chai/http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/06/wwf-earth-hour-enjoys-continued-support-from-luxury-hotel-chai/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The World Wildlife Fund is holding the annual "Earth Hour" climate change initiative on March 27, 2010. The organization urges people to express their concern about climate change with one simple act, turning off their lights at 8:30pm local time. Last year nearly one billion people participated in the event in 4,100 cities world wide.

The Fairmont Hotel Group has been supporting the endeavor since its inception three years ago. The hotel group has come up with some creative ways to make "Earth Hour" an enjoyable experience for their clients who are at their properties spending money on a luxury vacation. Hotel guests at several properties can enjoy amenities such as; complimentary s'mores roasted at an ocean-side fire pit under the stars (The Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii), candlelight dinners at various hotel restaurants (Hotel Vier Jahresseiten, Mara Safari Club, Fairmont Turnberry Isle, Fairmont Chateau Laurier) and even themed "Happy Hours" (Fairmont Dallas). Other offerings include the opportunity for guests to learn more about the environment with lectures by naturalists and even an astronomer who will use the opportunity of less ambient lighting to show off the night sky. The corporate side of the Fairmont group will also be dimming their lights and have recently moved into new LEED certified offices in Toronto.

Continue reading WWF "Earth Hour" Enjoys Continued Support from Luxury Hotel Chains

LuxistWWF "Earth Hour" Enjoys Continued Support from Luxury Hotel Chains originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 06 Mar 2010 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earth hourearth hour 2010EarthHourEarthHour2010FairmontHotelslas vegasLasVegaslightswwfSat, 06 Mar 2010 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[American Ballet Theater Cancels New York Fall Season]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/05/american-ballet-theater-cancels-new-york-fall-season/http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/05/american-ballet-theater-cancels-new-york-fall-season/http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/05/american-ballet-theater-cancels-new-york-fall-season/#commentsFiled under:

american ballet theatreIn another example of how the arts have been suffering during the economic downturn, the Wall street Journal reports that ABT will not be doing a fall season in New York this year. The dance company does not have its own theater and has previously conducted its fall run at the New York City Center. One of America's leading cultural institutions the company offers touring productions including performances in Chicago and Los Angeles this spring and summer. The company will also be in New York City at the Metropolitan Opera House for its traditional spring season.

American Ballet Theater is still planning to come to New York area but not until December and this time to Brooklyn. The Brooklyn Academy of Music has committed to a five year contract of ABT's new production of "The Nutcracker" choreographed by Alexi Ratmansky. Traditionally "The Nutcracker" is a big money maker for regional dance companies around the country and ABT is looking to cash in on that more predictable revenue source. David Koch, the Vice Chairman of ABT's board has already donated $2.5 million dollars towards funding the production.

New York City already has one "Nutcracker" performed annually since 1954 by the New York City Ballet at Lincoln Center. It is considered by many to be the traditional holiday dance performance to which on should take children, both who live locally and those who are visitng family, during the holiday season. It will be interesting to see how the competing versions of "The Nutcracker" fare against each other given the already limited interest that exists in classical dance.

LuxistAmerican Ballet Theater Cancels New York Fall Season originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 05 Mar 2010 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ABTamerican ballet theaterAmericanBalletTheaterballetBAMdanceNew York CityNewYorkCityNutcrackerBalletFri, 05 Mar 2010 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Beverly Hills Cigar Club to Hockey Haters: Light(en) Up!]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/01/beverly-hills-cigar-club-to-hockey-haters-light-en-up/http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/01/beverly-hills-cigar-club-to-hockey-haters-light-en-up/http://www.luxist.com/2010/03/01/beverly-hills-cigar-club-to-hockey-haters-light-en-up/#commentsFiled under: ,


Much ado has been made of the cigars ignited by the Canadian Women's Hockey Team in celebration of the gold medal they had earned. Of course, they are not the first to light cigars following a victory, and despite much of the criticism being levied these days, they are unlikely to be the last. Vin Lee, CEO of the Beverly Hills Cigar Club, wants the team to know that they have his support.

In addition to decrying the International Olympic Committee's suggestion that an investigation may be necessary, he said in a statement:

Every other sport - from the Stanley Cup, the World Cup of Soccer, NASCAR to the Super Bowl -- supports celebrating victories with a bottle of champagne and a great cigar," points out Lee. "The moment is emotional; in the case of the Olympics, it often is the reward of years of hard work and sacrifice. The Canadian Women's Hockey Team should not be chastised for wanting to mark their victory on the ice. They are national heroes.

It would be nice for the IOC to lighten up on this issue ... having already missed the opportunity to light up in support of the Canadian women's team.

And, congratulations on a victory that was certainly earned!

LuxistBeverly Hills Cigar Club to Hockey Haters: Light(en) Up! originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 01 Mar 2010 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beverly hillsBeverlyHillscanadacanadian womens hockey teamCanadianWomensHockeyTeamcigarcigarshockeyice hockeyIceHockeyOlympicGamesolympicsMon, 01 Mar 2010 20:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Camacho Cigars Official Sticks of Oscars Style Lounge]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/24/camacho-cigars-official-sticks-of-oscars-style-lounge/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/24/camacho-cigars-official-sticks-of-oscars-style-lounge/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/24/camacho-cigars-official-sticks-of-oscars-style-lounge/#commentsFiled under: ,

I've heard all over that Oscar parties are supposed to be a big deal this year. While you're donning your formals and schlepping over to someone's house to see who walks home with glory, think for a few moments about what will be going on at the Academy Awards Style Lounge at the Intercontinental Hotel in Beverly Hills. One thing will be certain: the guests will be cutting and lighting Camacho Cigars. At the party on March 6, 2010, Camacho will be the lounge's official cigar.

Says Dylan Austin, Director of Marketing for Camacho, "Camacho Cigars is proud to be a part of the Academy Awards Style Lounge," continuing, "We are excited to be aligning Camacho Cigars with the Oscars, and to be part of this grand celebration in honor of the 82nd Annual Academy Awards."

LuxistCamacho Cigars Official Sticks of Oscars Style Lounge originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 24 Feb 2010 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Academy AwardAcademy Awardsacademy awards 2010AcademyAwardAcademyAwardsAcademyAwards2010beverly hillsBeverlyHillsCamachocigarcigarsoscarsPartiesWed, 24 Feb 2010 14:02:00 EST<![CDATA[10 Tips for Successful Backyard Entertaining]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/21/10-tips-for-successful-backyard-entertaining/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/21/10-tips-for-successful-backyard-entertaining/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/21/10-tips-for-successful-backyard-entertaining/#commentsFiled under: ,

backyard partyFew things are better than enjoying good food, good friends, and good weather, and entertaining outdoors is a wonderful way to enjoy all three at once. Here are some tips to make sure your backyard get-together goes off without a hitch.
  • Skip tablecloths, or if you must have them invest in enough tablecloth weights to keep the wind from carrying everything away.
  • Set out at least one more cart or table than you think you'll need, because there's never too many places for guests to mingle, for drinks and glasses to accumulate, or for whatever else.
  • Control bugs and define a perimeter with incense or citronella tiki lamps.

Continue reading 10 Tips for Successful Backyard Entertaining

Luxist10 Tips for Successful Backyard Entertaining originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 21 Feb 2010 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backyardentertainingentertainmentluxist-awardsmain-pediaoutdoor entertainmentoutdoor-entertainment-pediaOutdoorEntertainmentpartySun, 21 Feb 2010 16:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Oscars Stage Design to Be More Glamorous and Fantastic Than Ever]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/20/oscars-stage-design-to-be-more-glamorous-and-fantastic-than-ever/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/20/oscars-stage-design-to-be-more-glamorous-and-fantastic-than-ever/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/20/oscars-stage-design-to-be-more-glamorous-and-fantastic-than-ever/#commentsFiled under: ,


The Oscars are a glitzy event, there's no doubt about that, but after last years low key approach stage designer David Rockwell isn't holding anything back for this years event. Described as "bigger, shinier, and with more moving parts than ever before," the stage will feature a stunning quarter-moon curtain hung with 100,000 glittering Swarovski crystals, plus three moving platforms, several rotating LED panels, and other effects like mirrors and metal architecture. The whole thing is inspired by the basic elements of movie making -- light and movement -- and is meant to show off the event's hosts and winners in the best possible way.

How impressive and beautiful it must to stand on that stage and look up into that amazing curtain!

LuxistOscars Stage Design to Be More Glamorous and Fantastic Than Ever originally appeared on Luxist on Sat, 20 Feb 2010 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>academy awardsAcademyAwardscelebritiesdavid rockwellDavidRockwelloscarsswarovskiswarovski crystalsSwarovskiCrystalsSat, 20 Feb 2010 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Royal Drive Supercar Rally in the UAE]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/19/royal-drive-supercar-rally-in-the-uae/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/19/royal-drive-supercar-rally-in-the-uae/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/19/royal-drive-supercar-rally-in-the-uae/#commentsFiled under: , ,


As Luxist readers well know the UAE and in particular Dubai and Abu Dhabi are home to some of the most spectacularly ostentatious collections of supercars, often customized within an inch of their lives. Now a new event has been inaugurated in order for the local sheikhs and such to show them off to best advantage. The Royal Drive is a three-day exotic auto orgy featuring an armada of 60 Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Aston Martins, Bentleys, Mercedes-McLaren SLRs, Gemballa Mirage GTs and more, kicking off on March 18. The event will begin at the 5-star Yas Hotel on Yas Island, home to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and upcoming Ferrari World theme park. From there the cavalcade will continue to circuit the Abu Dhabi Corniche beach boulevard winding up at the 5-star Intercontinental Hotel at Dubai Creek. That night participants will enjoy VIP treatment at the Elements Music Concert in Dubai Festival City before proceeding on to the Dubai Marina and a wrap party at the Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residences. And yes, you need a gold-plated invitation.

LuxistRoyal Drive Supercar Rally in the UAE originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 19 Feb 2010 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Abu DhabiAbuDhabiDubairallysupercarUAEFri, 19 Feb 2010 08:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Attending a Ball in Vienna]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/18/attending-a-ball-in-vienna/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/18/attending-a-ball-in-vienna/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/18/attending-a-ball-in-vienna/#commentsFiled under: ,

Though the art of social dance is a tradition forgotten by many, in Vienna, ball season is alive and well.

Every year, more than 300 grand balls are held. Ladies and gentlemen in gowns and black tie assemble to waltz, see, and be seen in some of Austria's finest venues, including the Imperial Palace. I had the pleasure of attending once such ball this year, The Coffeehouse Owners' Ball, held annually at said location with a guest list of over 5,000.

The Coffeehouse Owners' Ball, like most balls in Vienna, is open to the public. Just as every child in Vienna is taught social dance as a school requirement, every single person in Austria is eligible to attend most balls, simply by buying a ticket. Table seating and drinks come at an additional cost, as do carriage rides, fabulous dresses and other associated expenditures, but in Vienna, you'd be a fool not to attend at least one of these important societal gatherings each year -- and if you're a tourist, it's an experience you will never, never forget.

A typical ball evening begins with dinner, as one must prep for a late night of dancing. Then, most guests head to the ball venue around 7:30 PM to see the opening ceremony -- though I'm told "professional" ball goers, or people who've been attending several balls per week for years, tend to skip the ceremony and arrive at 11 or so when the real "party" starts. Depending on which ball it is, the ceremony may be less or more lavish. The Coffeehouse Owners' Ball included not only singing, dancing, and speeches by dignitaries and, of course, coffeehouse owners, but a presentation by Austria's most accomplished debutantes, who must apply and audition for a coveted debut slot at one of the larger balls.

Once the ceremonies are completed, the ball begins. At the Coffeehouse Owners' Ball, Professor Thomas Schäfer-Elmayer, Austria's etiquette expert, announces "Alles walzer!" or "Everyone waltz!" -- and that they do.

Continue reading Attending a Ball in Vienna

LuxistAttending a Ball in Vienna originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 18 Feb 2010 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AustriaBallDancingElmayerViennaVienneseviennese waltzVienneseWaltzWaltzThu, 18 Feb 2010 08:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Controversial Musical Coming to Seoul Theaters]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/17/controversial-musical-coming-to-seoul-theaters/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/17/controversial-musical-coming-to-seoul-theaters/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/17/controversial-musical-coming-to-seoul-theaters/#commentsFiled under:

When I saw the Korean movie Joint Security Area a few years ago, I was floored. The plot itself wasn't a big deal - think Law & Order in the DMZ - but it's a South Korean film that offers a sympathetic, almost brotherly view of its miltaristic neighbrs to the north. A decade after the movie caused a stir on the peninsula, it's getting ready to hit the stage. Singing and dancing will be used to convey the complex messages of politics and culture in Panmunjom.

According to the Muk Company, which hasn't begun casting yet, "The musical will be different from both the original novel and the film. It will be a totally new production with a twist, which will touch upon sensitive issues, reflecting the 2010 relation between the two Koreas." Like the film version, the musical is expected to have an all-star cast.

Interestingly, Muk adds, "The production will also mark the 60th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War this year."

LuxistControversial Musical Coming to Seoul Theaters originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 17 Feb 2010 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dmzmusicalnorth koreaNorthKoreatheaterWed, 17 Feb 2010 20:01:00 EST<![CDATA[LuckyRice Announces New York City Asian Food Festival]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/17/luckyrice-announces-new-york-city-asian-food-festival/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/17/luckyrice-announces-new-york-city-asian-food-festival/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/17/luckyrice-announces-new-york-city-asian-food-festival/#commentsFiled under: ,


Tickets went on sale yesterday for a new festival in New York City. LuckyRice, a media and marketing company honoring Asian culinary culture, has created the LuckyRice Asian Food Festival which will run April 29 to May 2. The event will benefit City Harvest and the Asian American Federation and is presented in partnership with the LuckyRice Culinary Council and Conde Nast Traveler, Time Out New York and Edible Manhattan. The Culinary Council includes some top names like Daniel Boulud, Anthony Bourdain, David Chang, Michael "Bao" Huynh, Masaharu Morimoto, Eric Ripert, Marcus Samuelsson and Jean-Georges Vongerichten.

The festivities include grand tastings, cocktail parties and other epicurean events including a Night Market and a Sunset Luau. Following the festival will be the LuckyRice Restaurant and Bar Week, which will offer prix-fixe lunches and dinners at participating restaurants. Ticket prices vary per event. One can't-miss talk on April 30 is on Buddhist cuisine and features Eric Riper and David Chang in conversation with noted Buddhist authority Robert Thurman. Night owls might enjoy with sake and karoke night with Iron Chef Morimoto which starts at 11 pm. Lisa Ling will host the Grand Feast of Asian Flavors at the Mandarin Oriental NY. A list of all events and ticket information can be found on the LuckyRice website.

LuxistLuckyRice Announces New York City Asian Food Festival originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 17 Feb 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anthony bourdainAnthonyBourdainasian food festivalAsianFoodFestivaldaniel bouludDanielBouluddavid changDavidChangeric ripertEricRipertluckyriceWed, 17 Feb 2010 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Chopin to Auction World's Largest Bottle of Vodka, Signed by Celebs]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/12/chopin-to-auction-worlds-largest-bottle-of-vodka-signed-by-cel/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/12/chopin-to-auction-worlds-largest-bottle-of-vodka-signed-by-cel/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/12/chopin-to-auction-worlds-largest-bottle-of-vodka-signed-by-cel/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Chopin, the small-batch ultra-premium potato vodka from Poland named in honor of the famed composer, has created the world's largest bottle of vodka to be signed by celebs and auctioned off for charity. The 200-liter behemoth, celebrating the 200th anniversary of the Polish composer's birth, was just unveiled at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF) where Sandra Bullock (above) was the first to affix her signature. Bullock won the Festival's American Riviera Award, presented by Chopin and established to recognize an actor who has had a strong influence on American cinema. Past recipients include Mickey Rourke, Tommy Lee Jones and Forest Whitaker. The signed 200-liter bottle will now tour the U.S. and then be auctioned off with proceeds going to The GRAMMY Foundation's Music Preservation Project. The lucky winner will get to have one hell of a party.

LuxistChopin to Auction World's Largest Bottle of Vodka, Signed by Celebs originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 12 Feb 2010 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ChopinFrederic ChopinFredericChopinPolandSandra BullockSandraBullockSanta BarbaraSantaBarbaravodkaFri, 12 Feb 2010 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Cartier Captures Snow Polo World Cup in St. Moritz]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/09/cartier-captures-snow-polo-world-cup-in-st-moritz/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/09/cartier-captures-snow-polo-world-cup-in-st-moritz/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/09/cartier-captures-snow-polo-world-cup-in-st-moritz/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The team fielded by famed French jeweler Cartier beat back rivals Brioni, Maserati and Swiss banking house Julius Baer to capture the 26th World Polo Cup on Snow in St. Moritz the other day. 15,000 well-heeled spectators cheered on during the four-day event, culminating in a nail-biting finale where Cartier and Julius Baer were tied 3 - 3 up until the very last minute when Cartier won a penalty shot with only 8 seconds remaining on the clock. A team of seven well-known Swiss star chefs with a combined total of 118 Gault-Millau points catered to the guests on the chic resort's frozen lake where the matches are staged. In snow polo the ponies are shod with special cleated shoes to provide better traction, and the ball is larger, lighter, and painted bright red to accommodate winter conditions.

LuxistCartier Captures Snow Polo World Cup in St. Moritz originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 09 Feb 2010 07:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CartierequestrianMaseratipolosnow poloSnowPolosportingSt. MoritzSt.MoritzSwitzerlandwinter sportsWinterSportsTue, 09 Feb 2010 07:01:00 EST<![CDATA[New York Celebrity Chefs Serve Up Street Food]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/04/new-york-celebrity-chefs-serve-up-street-food/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/04/new-york-celebrity-chefs-serve-up-street-food/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/04/new-york-celebrity-chefs-serve-up-street-food/#commentsFiled under: ,

On Monday, Feb. 8, 500 lucky New Yorkers will get a chance to taste gourmet fast food of sorts from some of the city's most popular chefs. It'll be the street cart equivalent of New York City Ballet dancers doing pirouettes on a subway platform, or Broadway actors singing karaoke in a dive bar. In other words, a rare treat.

Four top chefs - Daniel Boulud, Alain Ducasse, Paul Liebrandt and Michael White - will be operating street carts and in four top secret locations around Manhattan. The lunches will be free, but you know what they say about free lunches.

Continue reading New York Celebrity Chefs Serve Up Street Food

LuxistNew York Celebrity Chefs Serve Up Street Food originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 04 Feb 2010 10:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alain ducasseAlainDucassecelebrity chefsCelebrityChefsdaniel bouludDanielBouludmichael whiteMichaelWhitenew york chefsnew york street foodNewYorkChefsNewYorkStreetFoodpaul liebrandtPaulLiebrandtsouth beach food wine festivalSouthBeachFoodWineFestivalThu, 04 Feb 2010 10:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Tell Us Everything, Event Designer Preston Bailey]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/02/tell-us-everything-event-designer-preston-bailey/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/02/tell-us-everything-event-designer-preston-bailey/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/02/tell-us-everything-event-designer-preston-bailey/#commentsFiled under: ,



Last week, high-end event planner Preston Bailey gathered hundreds in the sprawling 69th Regiment Armory in Manhattan to celebrate the launch of his fourth book, "Preston Bailey Celebrations." The gorgeous book is filled with images of the lavish events he's designed the world over (with rates starting at $250,000), from a stunning Tiffany-glass inspired wedding in New York to a reception with giant floral animals in Bali. So you can expect his own party would be a stunner - not to mention celebrity-tinged.

Bailey created a magical environment with no shortage of glitz (above). Two giant disco balls dramatically projected light throughout the room and dreamlike trees glowed at the entrance. A giant runway ran down the middle of the room, which was projected with a rotating image of pages from his book, giving it the illusion of a printing press. The runway served as a stage for performers such as Martha "Everybody Dance Now" Wash and Gloria Gaynor, then later was filled with attendees dancing. Bailey was true to his theory that a diverse crowd makes for the best parties. He was feted by quite a diverse crowd.

Continue reading Tell Us Everything, Event Designer Preston Bailey

LuxistTell Us Everything, Event Designer Preston Bailey originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 02 Feb 2010 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>celebrity event plannerCelebrityEventPlannerkatie lee joelKatieLeeJoelluxury event plannerLuxuryEventPlannerpreston baileypreston bailey celebrationsPrestonBaileyPrestonBaileyCelebrationsrizzoliTue, 02 Feb 2010 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Aspen Fashion Week Set for March]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/01/aspen-fashion-week-set-for-march/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/01/aspen-fashion-week-set-for-march/http://www.luxist.com/2010/02/01/aspen-fashion-week-set-for-march/#commentsFiled under: , ,


In the wake of a successful inaugural preview last year, the 2nd annual Aspen Fashion Week has been slated for March 14 - 19, showing that the ultra-chic Colorado resort is truly recession-proof. Designed to showcase and market winter resort, ski and technical outerwear in the home and playground of the country's most stylish mountain winter town, the occasion will feature slopeside runway events, daily après ski fashion shows, in-store presentations, on-mountain events and late night fashionable soirées. Expect world class designers, emerging fashionistas, brands with unique art programs, film screenings, music and models galore. W magazine will kick-off the festivities with an opening night party. Labels getting in on the action include Burberry, J. Crew, Helly Hansen, Victorinox, Calypso, Authier and more.

LuxistAspen Fashion Week Set for March originally appeared on Luxist on Mon, 01 Feb 2010 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AspenAspen Fashion WeekAspenFashionWeekColoradofashion showFashion WeekFashionShowFashionWeekskiskiingMon, 01 Feb 2010 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[How to Throw the Perfect Party]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/29/how-to-throw-the-perfect-party/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/29/how-to-throw-the-perfect-party/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/29/how-to-throw-the-perfect-party/#commentsFiled under: ,

Whether its just friends getting together for drinks or a big soiree full of people you want to impress, the trick to throwing a truly perfect party is to plan out the details in advance so you can relax and have fun at the event. The mood of the host or hostess sets the tone for the whole party, so being stressed and uncomfortable around the guests is not an option. In order to create the perfect atmosphere here a few good rules of thumb appropriate for any party.

  • Don't sweat the small stuff. Plan and prepare the little details till your heart's content (they can really make a party) but if something goes wrong or doesn't turn out just right don't panic. If you stay relaxed and happy your guests will be that much more comfortable (and a few imperfections can be endearing).
  • Know your guests If you're serving food find out ahead of time if there are any special guest requirements (vegetarian diet, allergies, etc). Also make sure the music is appropriate for everyone, and plan ahead for special guest groups like the elderly (plenty of seating) and children (places to play). You don't want to be scrambling for extra chairs as the guests arrive.

Continue reading How to Throw the Perfect Party

LuxistHow to Throw the Perfect Party originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 29 Jan 2010 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>entertainment-pediahostesshostingmain-pediapartiespartyparty planningPartyPlanningFri, 29 Jan 2010 08:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Get Married By Rev Run On Valentine's Day]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/28/get-married-by-rev-run-on-valentines-day/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/28/get-married-by-rev-run-on-valentines-day/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/28/get-married-by-rev-run-on-valentines-day/#commentsFiled under:

Most people have an idea of what their dream wedding might look like but I bet no one had this vision. The Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City is inviting couples to share their over-the-top love stories for a chance at winning the "Ultimate Rock N' Roll Wedding!"

The Valentine's Day weekend wedding includes bachelor/ bachelorette parties hosted at Borgata's nightlife venues MIXX and mur. mur. on February 13 with performances by celebrity DJ's Samantha Ronson, DJ Mos, DJ KISS, and DJ Ruckus. After a day of pampering the wedding party will go to the Kid Rock concert hosted at Borgata's Event Center followed by access to the official after-party. The wedding ceremony will be held at Borgata's Gypsy Bar and officiated by founder of Run-D.M.C., Rev Run. The package also comes with a custom wedding cake by Borgata's Executive Pastry Chef Thaddeus DuBois, and accommodations for the couple in Borgata's romantic honeymoon suite. Couples must enter their submissions online at www.borgatanightlife.com.

LuxistGet Married By Rev Run On Valentine's Day originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 28 Jan 2010 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlantic cityAtlanticCityborgatacontestkid rockKidRockrev runRevRunweddingThu, 28 Jan 2010 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Conan O'Brien: Divorce from NBC is Ugly and "Crazy Expensive"]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/22/conan-obrien-divorce-from-nbc-is-ugly-and-crazy-expensive/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/22/conan-obrien-divorce-from-nbc-is-ugly-and-crazy-expensive/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/22/conan-obrien-divorce-from-nbc-is-ugly-and-crazy-expensive/#commentsFiled under:

If you can't beat them and you are leaving anyway, why not spend all their money?

That seems to be Conan O'Brien's philosophy this week as he embarked on a series of skits and extraordinarily expensive props to put on the appearance that he intended to blow through the Tonight Show budget in one week.

On Wednesday he trotted out a Bugatti Veyron, a rare and pricey sports car that costs as much as some private jets. O'Brien unveiled the Bugatti Veyron, showing the million dollar car embellished with mouse ears and whiskers. O'Brien claimed to have purchased the sports car.

Last night, he upped the ante by bringing out Kentucky Derby winning racehorse Mine That Bird adorned with a mink "Snuggie" and by showing restricted Super Bowl footage. This "crazy expensive" skit, he claimed, cost NBC $4.8 million.

Continue reading Conan O'Brien: Divorce from NBC is Ugly and "Crazy Expensive"

LuxistConan O'Brien: Divorce from NBC is Ugly and "Crazy Expensive" originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 22 Jan 2010 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugatti veyronBugattiVeyronconan obrienConanObrienjay lenoJayLenokentucy derbyKentucyDerbyMine that BirdMineThatBirdnbcnbc universalNbcUniversalrolling stonesRollingStonesSuper BowlSuperBowlFri, 22 Jan 2010 14:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Andaz Wall Street Housewarming Party]]>http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/21/andaz-wall-street-housewarming-party/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/21/andaz-wall-street-housewarming-party/http://www.luxist.com/2010/01/21/andaz-wall-street-housewarming-party/#commentsFiled under: ,

Usually a "soft launch" is a quiet affair with friends and employers gathered for a big round of encouragement smiles, trying menu items and testing out drink concoctions. Someone forgot to tell that to Hyatt, who gathered a crowd of 300 to toast their highly anticipated new Andaz hotel in Manhattan.

Andaz is a new boutique concept from the hotel giant with locations in West Hollywood and London. Andaz Wall Street is the first in New York, with another on Fifth Avenue to open this spring. The Wall Street location officially opened to the public on Jan. 18.

At the housewarming, the restaurant, Wall & Water, was packed to the gills as guests gathered around marble "bars" for tastings of smoked salmon, arugula salad, grilled scallops and other bites being cooked before their eyes in the dining room.

Downstairs at Bar Seven Five, guests could try a choice of several different drink concoctions including a signature bourbon drink served flaming. Instead of a traditional bar with mixologists working their magic on one side and guests on the other, the lounge is laid out with a series of square-marble islands that break down the wall between guest and server, giving the bar an air of a high-end kitchen. Alchemy, a duo behind several successful New York speakeasies, designed the cocktail menu with an appropriately hip retro flair.

At right, Dr. Oz's daughter, Daphne Oz, with Lily Cowles, Natasha Lennard and Elizabeth Cordry.

Continue reading Andaz Wall Street Housewarming Party

LuxistAndaz Wall Street Housewarming Party originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 21 Jan 2010 15:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andaz wall streetAndazWallStreetbar five sevenBarFiveSevenhilton hotelsHiltonHotelsnew york hotelsNewYorkHotelswall streetwall waterWallStreetWallWaterThu, 21 Jan 2010 15:03:00 EST