Native plants and a pollinator garden go hand in hand. The native plants used in rain gardens provide the perfect habitat for birds, bees, and beneficial insects. As we’ve seen species of insects like honey bees and Monarch butterflies becoming endangered, more and more gardeners have been incorporating plants to...
After basking in the beauty of Barcelona's architecture and rich history, as we did in our previous travel guide, comes the time to put something delicious in one's belly. Savor the yummiest and most unique venues in the area and, to help, I'll be happy to furnish my recommendation for places to...
The beautiful, rolling hills of Tuscany in Italy are as alive with history and culture as they are with flora and fauna. In the heart of the region, in the area between Florence, Pisa and Siena, is an 800-year-old estate dominated by an ancient castle: once home to the Medici...
It's time. Your financial situation is getting more complex and you have less time and energy to devote to it. You need some financial help, and decide it's time to go shopping for a financial advisor. Where do you go from here? Here are 8 key factors to consider before partnering...
China has become one of the most prevalent destinations for travelers. While most focus on China’s rapid transformation, China is still a country full of tradition, extraordinary treasures, and stunning sceneries. It is also a great place to eat, shop and find peace of mind. Due to China’s size and significant...
Jamaica is probably synonymous to most with white beaches, a fruity drink, and delicious Caribbean food, but this tropical haven has so much more to offer! Full of unique adventures, Jamaica is a place for sightseeing expeditions, vibrant culture, history and natural wonders. If your bucket list includes amazing food,...
Growing up in a household with four other women taught me many lessons. One of the most fun: women's tastes don't always agree. Naturally, as we grew older, my mom, three sisters and I developed very different tastes in music, food, men and fashion. As we all grow stronger ties with...
When I die, I hope the waiting room in heaven is furnished with an ornate tufted settee, a collage of vases with lush peonies and a chandelier with thousands of cascading translucent glass drops. It’s not uncommon to find me drooling over the pages of magazines, contemplating impossible-to-find artwork, intricate...
EV is proud to bring you the amazing work of renowned Austin-based interior designer Rachel Horn. She traveled to San Miguel de Allende to give us a glimpse of Mexico’s gorgeous culture and history through her work at La Casa Dragones. At the epicenter of Mexico’s silver trade in the late...
Have you ever wondered what’s the driving force behind the success of today’s biggest mega stars? What’s the root of their success? Is it their drive, talent, beauty, innovation or business know-how? Although these qualities attract media and create high visibility, all mega stars have one common thread that is...
Everybody loves a good story. We are story machines, constantly making up meaning about ourselves, about others, and the world around us. Take a moment to consider the following: So many of the stories you have listened to, created, and constantly retell are diverting the path to true happiness. If...
Dress up in layers of denim, crisp cerulean linens, and casual sweaters. We had tons of fun mixing it up in shades of urban chic blues. TALENTS: Fashion Director / Photography: Tania Quintanilla Wardrobe: Graham Cumberbatch Hair: Jorge Buccio Makeup: Kelsey James Model: Macaden Arnell from The Campbell Agency Suit by Tombolini ($1,295; Capra & Cavelli). Stadium...
Since my first year in college, I've been deeply interested in the story and work of Frida Kahlo. I found her paintings, often characterized by autobiographical elements, to be such a fascinating mix of surrealism and her powerful narrative. Her character was instantly engraved in my mind. One of the most...
Architect Stuart Sampley is proud to be an integral part of the evolution of Zilker, one of Austin's most beloved neighborhoods, transformed in recent years by stunning modern architecture. His clients are aware of his knowledge and understanding of the changing climate in the community and appreciate his respect for...
Pack your bags, eclectics. EV is taking you to the gorgeous City of Cartagena de Indias, Colombia. Colorful, lively and historic, Cartagena is a perfect destination for elite tourists looking for sunny weather, tropical lush greenery and some pretty exquisite venues. Cartagena is a gorgeous fishing village on Colombia’s Caribbean...
Whether it’s a seaside affair, a unique culinary experience or a world-class sports event you’re looking for, this European hotspot is sure to deliver all the thrills your heart desires. Barcelona is a city of breathtaking sites and endless leisure, with its top-notch luxury hotels, exquisite art venues and incredible...
The Tree House gets its name from the property’s primary live oak tree, which served as the focal point for this development. Each space has a special relationship to this central element, creating a unique connection between the indoor and outdoor realms. With finely detailed materials and finishes, this two-...
There is one great truth about life, which could not be truer for homes in America: what goes around comes back around. Building homes are big undertakings for families, and their designs are undeniably being revisited. For two decades now, we’ve seen both the ‘supersizing’ and the ‘homogenization’ of the...
The name may be familiar to you but Brazilian ambrosia is different from the American and European recipes. Made with milk, eggs, sugar and cinnamon, this traditional, homely dessert has been around for centuries and was a part of some of the most sophisticated meals in Minas Gerais. Ambrosia is a common...
Looking for a new idea for a tired fireplace? These fabulous fireplaces look gorgeous, warm toes, and transform each space with style and character. A dramatic marble fireplace surround anchors the light-filled great room, which looks outside through expansive windows. Hintgen designed twin chaise lounges, made by Van Peursem and covered...
Delicious and very substantial, this traditional Brazilian dish is a national culinary staple (and easily found in local eateries). Feijoada is a stew of beans with beef and pork of Portuguese origin. It is also commonly prepared in Macau, Angola, Cape Verde, Mozambique, Goa and India. Brazilians typically enjoy this hearty meal...
Inspired by a deep love of art, our style team created a visual homage to Baroque Artists, with a stylish twist. In an editorial story worthy of royalty, deep hues, contrasting layers, and dramatic makeup were combined to create an undeniably dramatic scene. (Yes, we did Games of Thrones before it was...
Oftentimes the simplest advice is the best. For example, it’s a good idea to not talk religion or politics in social situations. While there are some instigators out there who may enjoy stirring the pot, this simple rule of thumb is one that many people follow and benefit from. Financial...
Let us transport you to the beautiful amazon with vibrant makeup, gorgeous jewels, and shimmering flowers of sapphire, gold, and emerald. TALENTS Fashion Director / Photographer: Tania Quintanilla Styling: Coral Talavera & Jennifer Swanson Hair: Robert Grimes Makeup: Kelsey James Model: Roxanna Redfoot Crème Eye Liner in Eggplant Purple ($24; Laura Mercier). Chaos Eyeshadow ($20; Urban Decay)....
Fall fashion gets a jolt of modern. In a whirlwind of unexpected layers, pops of color and playful prints, one can easily get swept away. TALENTS: Photography: Tania Quintanilla Photo assistant: Rudy Arocha Model: Taylor Lovelace Wardrobe stylist: Graham Cumberbatch Wardrobe assistant: Kathryn Garza Hair Stylist: Ted Sabol-Williams Makeup artist: Clarissa Luna Green leaf pants by St.John ($695; Julian Gold)....
Reminiscent of a 'Modern Day Babylon', vertical gardens will make any minimalist swoon. Refusing the traditional pots and soil, these green artscapes provide sleek simplicity and seem to defy gravity. The trend is a result of arduous research and thoughtful design, and the main focus is to maximize space and...
The Doc B’s Fresh Kitchen in Fort Lauderdale Project by DMCA Architecture marries the company’s “focus on fresh, house-made and mindfully sourced dishes”, with an idea of timelessness, a universal quality that transcends moment or place. The material’s palette evokes a graceful mid-century nostalgia and its associations of home, a...
Beautifully curated looks inspired by the grace of dance. Deep fall colors, one very romantic setting, and a gorgeous dancer came together to create this beautiful ballet themed fashion shoot. A graceful fusion of nature, sheer fabrics, and a sense of airiness set the stage perfectly for our pink pointe shoes and...
FLIGHT IS BOOKED AND BAGS ARE PACKED...
Sharp, sophisticated and buttoned up: the essentials for the international jet-setter. Inspired by James Bond (and with the help of a very friendly neighbor who let us borrow his beautiful vintage ride) the fashion team created a highly sophisticated men's shoot. Layered in luxurious pieces carefully selected by our uber-jazzy stylish,...
The fusion of indoor and outdoor spaces is quickly gaining ground in today’s architectural landscape and Dick Clark, one of our favorite architects in Austin, has incorporated the concept into several beautiful projects, as is the case with this property in Brownwood, TX. the project This 4,600 square-foot haven amidst natural Texan...
The sequins, the shine, the big hair. For some, the 80's were truly the best of ages. For us, it was the music. For some, it was the fashion. A decade marked by bold style, shocking colors, and rather strange silhouettes, the '80s were a time to experiment with big and...
The most important element of the shoot is the inherent celebration of 'less'. Many readers have come to expect extravagance and overly complicated sets for editorial fashion shoots; heavily ornamented outfits; over-the-top hair and makeup. It can overpower our senses. It can overload the brain. Sometimes we need to cleanse the...
In just under 10 hours, Austin can enter a new wing of the world just beyond the sliding doors of bustling Heathrow. Traveling on a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, passengers in route are treated to impeccable service and amenities including multi-course meals and special cabin features that control the lighting, filter the...
Jet chartering from your smart phone is now easier with Jet Smarter, the app (for iOS or Android) that connects aircraft operators with fliers in real time. Founder Sergey Petrossov designed the app to give flyers access to the largest private jet marketplace in the world right from their mobile...
Relationships can be one of the greatest sources of joy. The place where we feel the most loved, safe and happy to be alive. They can also be hard. Most of us who have been in a long-term relationship might agree that there are times when managing our life together...
Trade in less-than-ideal-weather for a chic and sunny setting. Lovely primaries contrast with a gorgeous story of black and white perfection. Pack your bags, eclectics; here's a taste of impeccable style for jet-setters. TALENTS: Fashion Director / Photographer: Tania Quintanilla Wardrobe: Robert Mitchell Hair: Robert L Grimes Makeup: Kelsey James Model: Breanna Young from Campbell Agency Dress...
Combining unexpected colors, unique shapes, and shimmering metals, this beauty story captured the sleeker side of gold jewelry. Pieces of various weights and sizes were combined beautifully and layered to create variety. Meanwhile, the dark fabrics in the shot created a beautiful contrast when paired with the sultry shimmer applied to the model's...
In 1900 the average life expectancy in the USA was about 47 years of age; 46 for men and 48 for women. Now, just a little over 100 years down the road, the average life expectancy is 79. Advances in medical technology, improvements in living conditions, organ replacements, pharmaceuticals, etc....
Many great and colorful things come to mind when we think of Brazil. To you, it may be the 2016 Olympic games, the fabulous glitter and feathers of the Carnaval, the majestic tropical rainforest, Pele’s incredible football legacy, or maybe it’s talking CGI-animated macaws. In this particular instance, I was enthused...
Sleek lines and modern rustic, perfectly paired with its natural surroundings...
Imagine a luxury suite in the middle of the woods, where the air incessantly smells of lavender and dreams. Imagine sitting down at a fine restaurant floating on water, covered in lush greenery, where your cell phone won’t even get a signal. Imagine detaching from it all and getting lost...
Don’t let ridiculous heat ruin your mood or, even worse, cramp your style. Mix it up this summer with vibrant color, breezy prints and casual pieces. Florals, shorts, sand and sun. The perfect elements for this breezy shoot. Our style team has put together a cooler-than-cool lookbook for gents who...
Upon our discovery of The Elephant Story, one of the most unique venues in Texas, we were drawn to the rarest and most exclusive coffee in the world, Black Ivory Coffee. Here's what we learne from this very rare delicacy.Ten years in the making, Black Ivory Coffee is created through...
Modern Forms, by award-winning photographer Nicolas Grospierre, is a new publication edited by Alona Pardo and Elias Redstone, celebrating the 200-photograph archive that chronicles the photographer’s substantial visual collection of modernist architecture around the globe. Grospierre, who is now based in Warsaw, interestingly, doesn’t have art, architecture or photography training. He started his career studying political science at...
Joah Spearman is the co-founder and CEO of Localeur, an Austin-based startup that has helped hundreds of thousands of travelers around the world experience local. Localeur’s iPhone app has been featured in Huffington Post, the LA Times, Mashable and countless other outlets. Before Localeur, Joah was the founder of SXSW’s...
With chunky knits and borrowed-from-the-boys tailoring, it's okay to relax those shoulders in the comfiest silhouettes. TALENTS: Photographer: Tania Quintanilla Wardrobe: Graham Cumberbatch Hair: Robert L Grimes Makeup: Kelsey James Model: Alencia Lewis from Campbell Agency Pleated Pant by Studio Nicholson ($386; Kick Pleat). Navy top by Studio Nicholson ($386; Kick Pleat). Turtleneck by Ralph Lauren ($425; Julian...
I was introduced to this sport by my friends at The Elephant Story, a wonderful and whimsical venue in Comfort, Texas dedicated to wildlife preservation and whose owners are deeply driven by their love of animals. They are so passionate, in fact, that the store is the only The World Elephant...
BEHIND THE DELICATE SCIENCE OF SERVICE, STEVEN LEIGH HAS BEEN CATERING TO DISCERNING GUESTS FOR OVER 25 YEARS. HERE’S WHAT INSPIRES AND FULFILLS HIM. In the world of travel, the people we owe the most gratitude to are those of service such as the concierges. Have you ever wondered what their...
Challenging the confines of traditional design, Toronto designer Lori Morris has been offering clients an exceptionally luxurious experience in the world of interiors since 1987. This firm employs over 25 workers, specializing in high-end residential and commercial properties. Although Lori Morris lives in Toronto, she has practiced her unparalleled art both nationally and internationally...
During the chilly winter months, the biggest treat for most is escaping to the sunny beaches of a tropical oasis. Located 179 miles from the coast of Florida, you will find a grand version of just that on Paradise Island. Imagine descending upon the turquoise waters of the Caribbean to...
From the park to the runway, the season's fittest trend is all about the sporting life. Get inspired with perfectly curated visions of athleisure. Our style team created a hip visual story that artfully combined activewear with an urban flare, to create a look that I like to describe as fitness chic....
After 15 years writing about other people’s house projects, I finally got the opportunity to experience my own, in Zilker. In 2012 my husband Todd and I decided it was time to take our little 1,100-square- foot house (with 300-square-foot converted garage) to the next level. We chose Burton Baldridge...
Located in the heart of Toronto’s most popular district, King West, you will find the cool, luxurious Thompson Toronto Hotel. This upscale venue opened in 2010 features works by renowned artists along with an exceptional rooftop lounge that has the best, breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the city. It’s a...
Filmmaker, documentarian, editor and producer; it seems like Barbara Morgan just can’t resist a good story. Morgan co-founded Austin Film Festival 21 years ago and has served as the sole Executive Director since ‘99. Her work has been featured across screens of all sizes in and out of Austin and...
Jet Set Candy captures the spirit of favorite destinations and far-flung places. The collection includes over 100 whimsical original charms, representing six continents and 33 countries, meticulously crafted in sterling silver, vermeil and 14k gold. Each piece in their collectible, destination-specific range is thoughtfully designed...
In a city revered for its musical roots, one particular Austin composer, Nathan Felix, found himself in a bit of a challenge to both: teach himself how to compose for orchestra and somehow let the world know that classical music is not dead, but rather much alive. IN THE WORKS Felix has...
Lizard Island is truly secluded from the rest of the world. After Cyclone Ita devastated this petite Great Barrier Reef Island in April 2014, it was hard to imagine the property reemerge as such a beautiful haven for relaxation. Almost 12 months down the track, and following a massive rebuild...
It’s funny how I came across this little treasure...
Sugar, spice and everything nice have come together in Victoria Amory's eclectic collection of colors and flavors in her namesake line. Born in Spain, Victoria Amory has set herself apart as a passionate cook, award-winning author, lifestyle TV personality, entrepreneur and tastemaker, and is now leading the way for the...
It’s been almost a year since legendary actor and entrepreneur Robert De Niro launched his vodka brand, VDKA 6100. The trendy spirit, made from the freshest seasonal whey and natural spring water, has made its way into some of the star’s restaurants and hotels, as well as some of the...
Even from above, Grand Junction, Colorado is truly something spectacular to behold. Once you reach your destination, you will discover the gateway to stunning sceneries, the craziest adventures and extravagant accommodations, Welcome to Gateway Canyons! Voted #1 in the state and #12 in the world by Conde Nast Traveler, Gateway Canyons...
If you - like us - are obsessed with alternative homes and unique design, you’ve probably considered joining the shipping container home revolution. Although the trend has had its share of opposition from select builders, it’s proven to be a cool and cost-effective shelter solution across the globe. The fact...
An advocate for simple, edited design, Michael Hsu is an accomplished architect, an amazing space designer and a true visionary. He is responsible for designing some of the most popular venues and eateries in Austin and is one of the most recognized names in local modern architecture. Hometown: “I was born...
It’s a common dining experience at nearly every new restaurant: After poring over the menu, meticulously taking in the ingredients and style of each offering, you order what you think is the ideal plate, but when it arrives, you find you have somewhat aloof feelings about your own meal, though...
Leaving behind the social media, along with the city pollution and fast-paced environment, I escaped to the Caribbean’s all-Inclusive resort Curtain Bluff. Located in Antigua and Barbuda, it has consistently ranked among the finest resorts and tennis centers in the world, and is a prime destination for weddings, family gatherings and...
Meet MM.LaFleur, a New York City-based fashion startup founded by Sarah LaFleur and Narie Foster, two former consultants who were tired of dressing in boring pantsuits, in collaboration with Miyako Nakamura, former head designer of Zac Posen. Started in 2013, the brand is tailored to make working women feel fabulous by...
Professional Liability can be complicated and to most is completely unknown. One of the questions I often get is: Why would I need Professional Liability when I already have a general liability policy for my business? General Liability is designed to address exposures relating to personal bodily injury or property...
The Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa celebrates the next phase of its newly fashioned Palm Beach luxury philosophy by partnering with Jonathan Adler to redefine the guest experience with rooms full of elegant surprises, including his signature accents to add style, craft, and joy to the lives of resort...
Rachel Horn is an international design muse who has called Austin home, while still operating out of her workshop in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. Her rich design approach, worldly perspectives and exclusive clientele more than qualify this blond bombshell as one of our IDF Tastemakers. Here’s why...
These top-notch travel spots in Northern Territory have managed to unite the luxuries that elite jet-setters expect from the world’s best leisure destinations, with the majestic natural wonders of the Australian outback. Here are top picks for luxury hotels in Northern Territory, Australia: BANUBANU WILDERNESS RETREAT (BREMER ISLAND, NT) The perfect antidote...
The last couple of years have been really dramatic for raw food diets, as raw cuisine has started to make its huge mark in the fine dining panorama. Some of the best US raw food eateries are in uber-trending cities, such as Los Angeles, New York, Chicago and DC, where...
EV sat down with music with SXSW Music Programmer Jes Elliot to better understand the event organizer's mindset and the goals for the world renowned festival. Each year, SXSW draws more people to Austin. To combat the mayhem of SXSW Music, arguably the most chaotic segment of the festival, only...
Juniper, the newest addition to the Austin dining scene will open this spring at 2400 E. Cesar Chavez St., by veteran Austin chef Nicholas Yanes. Yanes was most recently chef and creative director for Uchi restaurants and St. Philip. That experience paired with chef positions at Hotel 50, Nana, Dallas...
I had an unforgettable opportunity to visit with world-famous rocker Bret Michaels at the unveiling of his themed suite at the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya. Here are some more fun and exploring in the area, for those wanting to make a quick escape to this Mexican beachside gem. DINING WITH...
When I was asked to cover the unveiling of the Bret Michaels suite at the Hard Rock Hotel in the Riviera Maya, the hardest choice was deciding what swimsuit to bring. Sandy beaches, an out-of-this-world resort, and an international celebrity? I was so ready to get the star treatment (rock...
Tucked away on the street level of Post South Lamar’s apartment complex in Austin is a quaint, authentic tapas eatery called Barlata. If you have never been to Barcelona or tasted traditional Spanish dishes before such as patatas bravas or paella, you are in luck. Designed by architect Michael Hsu as...
CAPTIVATING, COLORFUL AND DYNAMIC, THE work of SENÉN LLANOS TRANSFORMS CELESTIAL BODIES INTO COLLAGES OF COLOR AND TEXTURE THAT INSPIRE, PROVOKE AND GENUINELY BLOW ONE’S MIND. Emerging artist Senén Llanos is a self-taught photographer making a splash in New York City. The artist began experimenting with photography while studying computer science...
Discovering good bourbon is like striking gold. Or double gold, in the case of Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon. THE NAME OF THIS AWARD-WINNING SPIRIT CAUGHT OUR ATTENTION, BUT IT WAS ITS STORY WHAT GOT US REALLY INTERESTED. Its name hails from historical ties to the Old Fitzgerald brand. It was long...
You probably know him from the hit TV show and, if you're like most of my friends, you're counting the days to meet this real estate menace. One of the most fun stories of young success in the Big Apple, Luis Ortiz from Million Dollar Listing has not only made...
Tell an out-of-towner you’re from Texas. He or she will more than likely think up an image of a cowboy on a horse. In life, as in legend, the horse is central to what defines Texas as a state, and before it was a state, as it’s own Republic. However,...
I’ve got two kids, a home office, and my husband happens to be one of my favorite chefs in the world, so we probably eat at home more than anyone else I know. I’ve learned firsthand that no amount of planning, bulk purchases, and eco-friendly tips can hide the fact...
Gossett Jones Homes, one of Austin’s top custom homebuilders is proud to announce their new project in South Austin, Bluebonnet Lane Cityhomes. This hip urban development is rising just on the outskirts of Downtown, located on Bluebonnet Lane (a block off of South Lamar Blvd). Leslie Gossett, local luxury real estate...
Coming to Austin from New York City in 2004, I was already used to the idea that a neighborhood could be a little planet unto itself, and appreciated the idea that even a four-block area can have a distinct personality. I was happy to find that Austin identifies in a...
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