EPIC ENCOUNTERS

EPIC ENCOUNTERS

by | Feb 28, 2024 | Spring/Summer 24, Pursue

Where to go, how to support, and whom to know this spring? Look no further than here for our recommendations of the latest and greatest that Texans will love, according to our cool arbiter Lance Avery Morgan, who is always on the scene looking out for our best interests.

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

MEET ME AT THE PALACE

Led by its new President, Alicia Bryan, a Houstonian-turned San Antonian, the American Friends of Versailles weekend at the fabled palace, as well as gatherings in nearby Paris, is the place to be to kick off your five-star summer… Le Gala des Fleurs d’Oranger. Founded by Amarillo-born Catharine Hamilton decades ago, the preservation ties between the OG Cultural Landmark and Texas remain strong. From May 31 – June 3. To support, visit AmericanFriendsOfVersailles.org.

A WOMAN’S VIEW

Houstonian Sir Mark Haukohl’s collection of 47 women artists who are challenging the notions of gender, nationhood, and the practice of photography itself are the focus of the upcoming must-see exhibit at the Brooklyn Museum. The prior success of In the Now: Gender and Nation in Europe, Selections from the Sir Mark Fehrs Haukohl Photography Collection occurred at the Los Angeles County Museum in 2022. March 8–July 7. At BrooklynMuseum.org.

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NOW THAT TAKES THE CAKE

Most agree that the best wedding cakes in the state are made at Paige’s Bakehouse in the Austin area. The seventh-generation Texan Paige Morgan Perry is the fan favorite for creating artisanal, memorably creative, and festive cakes for any wedding or special occasion. “This is the most important day in a person’s life, and everything has to be perfect,” says Perry. “The cake is a sweet symbol of a couple’s love, and we make sure their vision is perfection.” At PaigesBakehouse.com.

FEATHERED & FABULOUS

This mini caftan is a part of the capsule collection for The SIL x The Beverly Hills Hotel. Dallas-based La Vie Style House’s combination of light pink silk mixed with pink feathers is an ode to Old Hollywood’s glamorous style. This classic caftan silhouette has a button placket front and boasts wide ostrich feathered sleeves. We love that The SIL’s native Texan-turned-Angeleno founder Natalie Bloomingdale is making the world more dazzling with each of her style collaboratives.  $950. At TheSILShop.com.

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RETREAT & REFRESH

Long ranked as one of the preeminent rejuvenation destinations in the

world, Lake Austin Spa Resort continues to dazzle.

Open year-round, the resort offers total immersive wellness experiences with an emphasis on the naturally restorative power and healing effects of water.

We love that the 25,000-square-foot Lake House Spa Resort features an outdoor

Palm Pool, hot tub, cabanas, 30 treatment areas, including garden

tents and suites, indoor heated Junior Olympic-length lap pool in the

Pool Barn, and two acres of terraced foliage and aquatic

gardens. A few days here will seem like a month anywhere else.

At LakeAustin.com

ALL HAT, NO CATTLE

We’ve found your next custom hat purchase. With the Yellowstone T.V. series craze in full throttle, it’s affected runways and closets across the world. Enter Cassandra Everett, founder of Cenizo West and Cenizo Hatworks, and her companies that craft her designs in Texas. Born in San Antonio and raised in Corpus Christi and Kerrville, she currently enjoys rural life in Sabinal, Texas (approximately 60 miles west of San Antonio). There she creates her Western designs that are sweeping the world. At CenizoHatworks.com.

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GO AHEAD, INDULGE

GO AHEAD, INDULGE

by | Dec 28, 2022 | 2023 January February, Pursue

Where to go, whom to know, and what to do?  Look no further than our Society Texas editorial team’s indispensable guide to what’s happening and why during the holidays.

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

PERFECT CAKE, PERFECT DAY

The wedding cake represents the nourishment of a couple’s happy life ahead together. Why not make it the most gorgeous it can be? We recommend Paige’s Bakehouse specialty wedding cakes that will be as innovatively sweet as your wedding. At PaigesBakehouse.com.

GETAWAY ATTIRE

For the bachelor party destination weekend, you want to be prepared for almost anything, right? Always ask yourself, what would Clooney do? Then, don your UNTUCKit sporty and sophisticated selects so you’ll feel comfortable in whatever may arise. We recommend, shown here, the wrinkle-free Blackstone shirt paired with the Italian wool blend Clavi sport coat. At UNTUCKit.com.

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BASKET CASE

Give, give, give. From next door to around the world, a gift basket is always well-received. We recommend Austinite Mia Simms’s brand child, Austintacious, which represents hipster Texan giving to those who are special in your life. At AustintaciousATX.com.

SMALL BATCH = BIG FLAVOR

When you sip, make sure it’s something special. May we suggest a dark spirit, such as Landry Distillery’s signature Landry Stakes small batch bourbon whiskey and Landry Oaks rye whiskey? Native Texan Zach Landry created the beverages that were inspired by his love of racing-class quarter-horses. At LandryDistillery.com.

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WHAT’S YOUR FREQUENCY?

Imagine instantly dissolving unconscious energetic blueprints from old emotional, physical, or abandonment traumas. These powerful solutions are infused with specifically targeted pure light subtle energy frequencies to help you release the past, eliminate free-floating anxiety, and shine as the new you. Available January, 2023. $197 per bottle. At SourceFieldTech.com.

LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE

LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE

by | Oct 30, 2022 | 2022 November December, Pursue

Where to go, whom to know, and what to do?  Look no further than our Society Texas editorial team’s indispensable guide to what’s happening and why during the holidays.

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

MEET ME AT THE PALACE

We love supporting the preservation of international landmarks however we can, don’t you? When it comes to the American Friends of Versailles, founded by Catharine Hamilton of Amarillo, there is no stopping the glamour at this round of four days of festivities and fêtes ahead in June 2023.

For more information, visit  AmericanFriendsOfVersailles.org.

THINK GREENS

Even as it cools down, a perfect salad is always a healthy choice. When you’re in L.A. next, perhaps try the money-is-no-object selection at the Beverly Hills Hotel. The signature McCarthy Salad runs $1,912. Seem steep? It does come packed with gold flakes, lobster, caviar, and a bottle of Dom Pérignon.

At DorchesterCollection.com.

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RUNWAY TO REAL WAY

Want access to all the top collections but don’t have time to spend in the front row? Problem solved. If you want an insider’s guide to the best trends and inspiration for this fashion season, pick up a copy, or peruse the digital platform of THE EDIT ADVISORY, by our contributors Krystal De Lisi and Ellen Mason.

At TheEditAdvisory.com.

NEXT LEVEL SIPPING

In the competitive world of premium tequilas, there are distinct differences. The award-winning Casa Dragones launches Reposado, the first tequila rested exclusively in Mizunara, a rare oak native to Japan and traditionally used for aging Japanese whiskies. Aha, that’s why it’s so smooth. Prices vary.

At CasaDragones.com.

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PRECIOUS MEMORIES PRESERVED

With all the one-of-a-kind holiday photos you’ll be taking, you’ll want to preserve them with the top-rated LaCie Rugged 5TB hard drive. The powerful, trusted external hard drive, for both Mac and Windows computers, will give you peace of mind that you’ll never lose data again.

$169. At Amazon.com.

SERVING UP FRESHNESS

SusieCakes, a well-known sweets destination in the Brentwood area in Los Angeles, is now serving up tasty goodness in Austin in Westlake. From cakes to pies, cheesecakes, and puddings, there is something happy and mouthwateringly delicious for everyone here.

At SusieCakes.com.

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Courtesy of Restore 180

MAINTAIN THE MAINTENANCE

House Ninja is a concierge service that helps busy Austin homeowners manage all their home maintenance and repairs. From quick fixes to repairs, plumbing, painting, landscaping, and much more. Simply text your personal House Ninja team and they handle it for you…from hiring a professional to managing the work. All for just $29 a month.

At HouseNinja.co.

MILES OF STYLE

MILES OF STYLE

by | Aug 31, 2022 | 2022 September October, Pursue

Where to go, who to know…and what to have this fall? Look no further than these top recommendations as the vibrant fall season begins, according to our spectacular Society Texas editorial team who is always on the lookout for the new and different.

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

DID SOMEONE SAY BRUNCH?

The Brunch Scarf from August Morgan, who brought you the adorable linen cocktail napkins embroidered with charming quips, is perfect for plenty of other occasions, too. The fan-favorite August Morgan animals are on full parade and toasting the day with Bloody Marys and Sparkling Rosé.

At AugustMorgan.com.

PERFECTLY PETITE

The new power purse is small and colorful, according to Lovard, a Texas-based accessories company from mother and daughter Lee Gunn Falchi (Dallas) and Kate Falchi (Austin), who are the widow and daughter, respectively, of esteemed handbag designer Carlos Falchi. Their collection of iconic handbags made from exotic skins, leathers, and soon-to-launch vegan leathers, as well as jewelry, have been a hit for those who love the high design and approachable price point.

From $300. At ShopLovard.com.

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GO AHEAD, FÊTE

Native Texan and founder Elizabeth Swift Copeland, a Dallasite, planned and coordinated prominent events in Washington D.C. Now, she has founded her own event and catering company, The Fab Fête, that provides delicious handmade cheese soufflés overnighted directly to your doorstep­––then you pop it in the oven.

At TheFabFête.com.

BY THE BOOK

We love that Dallas-based personal style expert Bobbi Schwartz has released Chic Casual Dressing: The Budget Guide, the second book in her Style Essentials series. The first book in the series, Build Your Ultimate Wardrobe, is focused on creating the foundation of an investment wardrobe, while in this latest addition, Schwartz has chosen to spotlight chic, casual dressing.

$9.99. At Amazon.com.

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MARFA? MARVELOUS.

It’s that time again. Time for Chinati Weekend in Marfa. The weekend of open viewing of the permanent collection, special exhibitions, talks, and music is free to the public and has become an international destination. In the more than thirty years since 1987 when Donald Judd created the happening, it has grown to be an essential part of Chinati’s programming and a much-anticipated cultural event for the entire West Texas region. October 7­––9.

At Chinati.org.

SERVING UP FRESHNESS

SusieCakes, a well-known sweets destination in the Brentwood area in Los Angeles, is now serving up tasty goodness in Austin in Westlake. From cakes to pies, cheesecakes, and puddings, there is something happy and mouthwateringly delicious for everyone here.

At SusieCakes.com.

Courtesy of Discovery Green
Courtesy of Restore 180

MAINTAIN THE MAINTENANCE

House Ninja is a concierge service that helps busy Austin homeowners manage all their home maintenance and repairs. From quick fixes to repairs, plumbing, painting, landscaping, and much more. Simply text your personal House Ninja team and they handle it for you…from hiring a professional to managing the work. All for just $29 a month.

At HouseNinja.co.

FANCY THAT

FANCY THAT

by | Jun 29, 2022 | 2022 July August, Pursue

Where to go, how to know…and what to have this spring? Look no further than these top recommendations as the restful summer season begins, according to our chic Society Texas editorial team.

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

MEXICO? MARVELOUS.

Las Ventanas, a Rosewood Resort in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico is celebrating its 25th anniversary. The property has redefined pampering and luxury in Los Cabos with unparalleled service and unwavering attention to detail. Overlooking the sparkling Sea of Cortez, it is an oasis for anyone who wants a true escape at this serene hideaway.

Prices upon request. At RosewoodHotels.com.

KIMONO CHIC

Ready to conquer the world with just one new fashion item? Consider a kimono  by Kimono Zulu, founded by Houstonian designer Tina Zulu. These fabulous, vintage, kimonos work equally well at home, for Texas cowgirl chic or when dressed-to-the-nines sophistication. Available in both solids and vibrant prints with long and short versions.

Prices upon request. At KimonoZulu.com.

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LUXE STANDARD

Ready for a new accessory to immediately enhance any room in your home? Look no further than the new, sexy UnZipped collection. The refreshing, summery colors such as yellow, aqua, and gray add more oomph to any space, according to ThePillowGoddess.com’s, Deborah Main who has partnered with designer Robin Baron on the made-to-order concept.

From $350. At RobinBaronDesign.com  

ORANGE YOU GLAD?

The new Hermès store on South Congress in Austin, is the third Hermès store in the state and a new market for the brand. We love that Hermès is an artisan-focused brand that will resonate well with Austin due to its large artisan community. The architectural core of the two level store is a gray terrazzo ramp inspired by the skate parks and greenery surrounding the store.

At Hermes.com.

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BOTTOMS UP

Martha Stewart, Baccarat, and Tequila Casa Dragones have teamed up for a new collection of fine glassware that will add panache to any bar. The Martha collection is available at all Baccarat boutiques, Baccarat.com, Martha.com, and NeimanMarcus.com.

Prices vary. For Casa Dragones, visit CasaDragones.com.  

PERFECT FOR ALL SEASONS

The Four Seasons in Houston, a longtime favorite, is like a brand-new hotel thanks to its recent opulent make-over. We love the restaurants on-site, Bandista, Toro Toro, and Bayou & Bottle, along with the revitalizing spa and pool. Plus, we adore the 24-hour Four Seasons Concierge service​ for top recommendations, hard-to-get reservations, and ticket purchases around the city.

At FourSeasons.com.

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POUCH PROOF

Houston-based line, JJ Olivier. With their backgrounds in engineering and business, the duo have created ideal, versatile and chic handbags without sacrificing fashion for function. Selections include the Aline Tote, the Carmalite Crossbody, and the Porter Pouch. The Porter Pouch, shown in full grain Italian leather, is $245.

At JJ Olivier.com.