3rd Annual Mind In Bloom Miriam School Fundraiser
An evening of generosity, inspiration, and heartfelt celebration blossomed into record-breaking success as Miriam School and Learning Center hosted its third annual Minds in Bloom Auction & Dinner on April 18, 2026, at the Clayton Plaza Hotel. Drawing its largest crowd to date, the elegant fundraiser raised more than $300,000, including over $181,000 for the Fund the Future Scholarship Fund, helping make specialized education accessible to more students with learning differences. Moving testimonials from scholarship recipient Eddie and Miriam parent Erin Chien brought the school's life-changing mission into focus. The evening also honored Steve and Karla Rosenblum, the Steele Family, and George Diederich for their extraordinary commitment to Miriam. More than a fundraising triumph, Minds in Bloom celebrated the power of education, philanthropy, and a community determined to help every child flourish.
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Denim Ascends to Haute Couture
Who says denim can't be haute couture? Levi's®, the legendary American brand synonymous with casual style for more than 170 years, made a spectacular debut at Paris Haute Couture Week through an extraordinary collaboration with acclaimed French designer Christelle Kocher. The breathtaking 10-look collection transforms iconic 501® jeans and classic denim jackets into wearable works of art, featuring intricate embroidery, delicate lace, dramatic featherwork, sculptural silhouettes, and exquisite handcraftsmanship. Blending the rugged authenticity of American denim with the refinement of French couture, Kocher challenges conventional notions of luxury and elevates everyday fashion to extraordinary new heights. The message is unmistakable: Denim isn't just for the streets anymore. It's ready for the world's most exclusive runways!
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Saint John’s Resort – The Unexpected Partnership of Luxury Hotels and Life-Changing Humanitarianism
What if your next luxury getaway could help change lives around the world? At Saint John’s Resort in Michigan, exceptional hospitality and extraordinary philanthropy come together in a destination unlike any other. Set on 200 beautifully manicured acres, this former seminary blends historic Romanesque architecture with sophisticated accommodations, exquisite dining, original artwork, and award-winning golf courses. Yet its most remarkable distinction lies beyond its luxurious amenities. Owned by the Pulte Family Charitable Foundation, Saint John’s is part of the Humanitarian Hotels collection, which directs 100% of net profits to charitable causes worldwide. In 2025 alone, the foundation awarded $10.1 million to 221 nonprofit organizations serving nearly 10 million people across 33 countries. Writer Tracy Cottrell discovers a resort where impeccable service, memorable experiences, and an unwavering commitment to humanity redefine the meaning of luxury travel. Here, indulgence isn't simply a pleasure—it's an opportunity to make a difference.
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GAME ON! A NEW TWIST ON ST. LOUIS SPORTS, DRY JANUARY AND THE PRICE OF A BEER
What do Dry January, $12 stadium beers, and Missouri football have in common? For Sophisticated Living’s Grayling Holmes, the answer begins with a phone call from his friend Cassie, who introduced him to Atta Gameday vapes, a new cannabis product available at Hippos Cannabis in Chesterfield.
After successfully completing his first Dry January and discovering THC breath spray as an alternative to alcohol, Holmes explores another option for adults rethinking their game-day traditions. Featuring team-inspired designs celebrating Mizzou and the Kansas City Chiefs, Atta Gameday brings a different twist to football fandom. From the Cardinals and Blues to St. Louis CITY SC and Sunday football, Holmes takes a humorous look at skyrocketing beverage prices, passionate sports fans, and evolving social rituals. His message? Enjoy the excitement, celebrate responsibly, and remember that a great game doesn't require a beer in your hand. Cannabis use is for adults 21 and older in lawful settings, and THC can cause impairment.
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WHAT IS ART OF PAWS?
What do original art, fabulous cocktails, and our four-legged friends have in common? Art of PAWS & People! On Saturday, October 24, Vivent Health, continuing the legacy of Saint Louis Effort for AIDS, will host this extraordinary fundraiser at the Gatsby Ballroom STL at The Alverne. Presented by St. Louis-based global pet care leader Purina, a dedicated sponsor for 23 years, the evening features original artwork by celebrated local artists, including Charlie Houska, live and silent auctions, cocktails, and delicious hors d'oeuvres.
But the real heart of the evening is PAWS (Pets Are Wonderful Support), which provides pet food and veterinary assistance to people living with HIV, ensuring they don't have to choose between caring for themselves and their beloved companions. Currently helping approximately 80 clients, with another 50 waiting for assistance, the program urgently needs community support. Art lovers, animal enthusiasts, and philanthropists alike are invited to enjoy an unforgettable evening while helping keep people and the pets they love together. Because sometimes the greatest gift isn't a work of art—it's the unconditional love of a cherished pet.
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35th Annual Forest Park Forever Hat Luncheon
A dazzling parade of elegant, extravagant, and whimsical hats transformed Forest Park’s iconic World’s Fair Pavilion into a spectacular celebration of fashion and philanthropy for the 35th Annual Forest Park Forever Hat Luncheon. Nearly 800 civic leaders, philanthropists, and park enthusiasts gathered for the sold-out affair, raising a record-breaking $665,000 to support the care and preservation of Forest Park’s magnificent 1,300 acres.
Emceed by Carol Daniel and co-chaired by Akberet Boykin Farr and Laura Sawyier, the festivities celebrated two remarkable milestones: Forest Park’s 150th anniversary and Forest Park Forever’s 40th anniversary. Established in 1991, the Hat Luncheon has blossomed into one of St. Louis’ most fashionable and beloved philanthropic traditions, proving that fabulous hats, generous hearts, and civic pride are always in style!
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The 3rd Annual Groovy Do Hairspray at The Muny
Big hair, bold colors and even bigger hearts set the scene as more than 150 donors turned back the clock to the swinging ’60s for The Muny’s third annual Groovy Do fundraiser before the June 18 performance of Hairspray. The Broadhurst Pavilion was buzzing as guests mixed, mingled and got their groove on while raising more than $95,000 to help make the magic of The Muny accessible to everyone. Chaired by Cheree Berry, Ashley Kemper and Brooke Ray, the colorful celebration supported everything from nearly 1,500 free seats at every performance to ASL interpretation, audio description, closed captioning, assistive listening and wheelchair assistance. It was an evening where fabulous fun met a meaningful mission—proving that at The Muny, everyone deserves a seat, everyone deserves to experience the magic, and generosity is always in style.
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DARE TO BE AN ANOMALY
Fashion lovers, consider yourselves in on one of St. Louis’ best-kept style secrets. On Sunday, October 4, the fifth Anomaly Fashion Experience: Off White After Five takes over The Majorette in Maplewood for an evening of runway fashion, art, creativity and community. Guests are encouraged to make their own fashion statement in shades of off-white while discovering local designers including Kraze Krystals, Upgrade My Diva, Lila Mae, Laha, Embellishments Adorned, HZuchelli and Designs By J. Stocking. The evening will also honor 2026 Anomaly Award recipients Dr. Veronic Lewis-Kelly, Courtney Goad and Jade Harrell. For Sophisticated Living readers who love discovering emerging talent before everyone else does, this is one fashion experience you won't want to miss.
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The Show Must Go On: Celebrating Dolly Parton Through Music—and Giving
In the wake of Dolly Parton’s recent passing, St. Louis has an opportunity to celebrate not only the unforgettable music of the beloved entertainer, but also her extraordinary legacy of giving. The Dolly Show Starring Kelly O’Brien comes to The Factory in Chesterfield on Tuesday, October 27, taking audiences on a glittering journey through six decades of Dolly classics, including Jolene, 9 to 5, Islands in the Stream and I Will Always Love You. O’Brien, endorsed by the Parton family and selected by Dolly Parton Enterprises as Dolly’s official body double for film, brings the legend’s voice, humor, warmth and signature rhinestone glamour to the stage. Even more meaningful, The Factory will donate $1 from every ticket sold to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, helping continue the literacy mission Dolly championed for decades. Sophisticated Living encourages St. Louis to fill The Factory, celebrate an extraordinary life and help ensure Dolly’s generosity lives on. Come for the music. Celebrate the legend. Help continue the legacy.
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Beyond Pink: Turning Breast Cancer Awareness Into Action
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but The Hamsa Wellness Community at the J is encouraging St. Louisans to move beyond awareness and take action. On Sunday, October 25, its annual Beyond Pink event brings together education, exercise and community resources for a free morning dedicated to cancer prevention, wellness and survivorship. Participants can learn about hereditary cancer risks and genetic testing while exploring resources from leading St. Louis cancer organizations and taking part in Zumba, T’ai Chi, restorative movement and specialized Yoga for Cancer and Strength Over Cancer programs. With breast cancer touching approximately one in eight American women during their lifetime, understanding personal and family risk, following appropriate screening recommendations and embracing healthy lifestyle choices can be powerful steps. Whether you are facing cancer, supporting someone you love, celebrating survivorship or simply becoming more proactive about your health, Beyond Pink offers an important reminder: awareness gets our attention, but knowledge, movement and action can make a difference.
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“I’m Here”—And After 50 Years, The Black Rep Is, Too
For 50 years, The St. Louis Black Repertory Company has given Black artists a stage, brought powerful stories to St. Louis audiences and grown from Ron Himes’ vision as a Washington University student into the nation’s largest professional African-American theater company. Its golden anniversary season opened triumphantly with The Color Purple, featuring a powerhouse performance by Angela Wildflower as Celie and culminating in a sold-out final performance. Thank you to Sophisticated Living readers and patrons who showed up and filled those seats. Now, the challenge is to keep showing up. With an ambitious 50th season ahead and a $15 million endowment campaign aimed at securing its future, The Black Rep is not simply celebrating its remarkable past—it is building its next half-century. Buy another ticket, bring a friend, make a donation and, for those with the means, consider a transformational gift. The Black Rep is here. Let’s make certain it stays here for the next 50 years.
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Saint Louis Dance Theatre Continues to “Move and Shake!”
Saint Louis Dance Theatre is ready to get St. Louis moving at its annual Movers & Shakers Ball, Friday, October 23, at the Touhill Performing Arts Center at UMSL. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or have never experienced the company before, this is the night to discover why Saint Louis Dance Theatre has become such an exciting force in our city’s cultural landscape. Beginning at 5:30 p.m., the gala promises an unforgettable evening of cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, a main-stage dance performance, silent auction, seated dinner and DJ dance party. More than a glamorous night out, Movers & Shakers supports the world-class dancers, acclaimed choreographers and ambitious programming that are helping put St. Louis on the national contemporary dance map. Come for the party, experience the artistry and become part of the movement.
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The Chair That Changed the World Began in St. Louis
One of the world’s most iconic pieces of furniture has a surprising hometown connection. Long before Charles Eames and his wife, Ray, created the legendary Eames Lounge Chair, Charles was a curious young St. Louisan exploring the city with a sketchbook and developing an appreciation for architecture, craftsmanship and design. From Yeatman High School and Washington University to early work at The Muny, St. Louis helped shape the creative vision that would ultimately transform modern furniture. Introduced in 1956, the Eames Lounge Chair remains a coveted symbol of timeless design, still handcrafted by Herman Miller nearly 70 years later. Now the story comes full circle with the opening of St. Louis’ first dedicated Herman Miller showroom in the Central West End—a fitting homecoming for a design legacy that began on the streets of St. Louis and went on to influence the world.
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Hospitality Begins at Home
For acclaimed St. Louis restaurateur Ben Poremba, food has always been about something larger than what arrives on the plate: bringing people together. That philosophy is transforming the Delmar Maker District, where his Bengelina Hospitality restaurants Nixta, Florentin and the new Del Bono surround the Maker’s Yard, an outdoor gathering place designed for dining, music, markets, families and the simple pleasure of spending time together. Following the devastating May 2025 tornado, Poremba saw an opportunity not simply to rebuild, but to give St. Louisans new reasons to return to Delmar and help change the narrative surrounding a street too often defined by division. Each restaurant reflects his travels and personal history—from the Israeli-inspired Florentin and contemporary Mexican Nixta to Del Bono, his warm, wood-fired interpretation of Italy. But Poremba’s real ambition extends beyond restaurants. Inspired by the hospitality he learned from his mother, he is creating a place that feels welcoming, sophisticated, diverse and connected—and demonstrating how food, thoughtful design and genuine hospitality can help rebuild not only a neighborhood, but a sense of community.
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Sculpted by Nature
Set on nearly 20 wooded acres overlooking a secluded lake in Labadie, Missouri, award-winning architect Thomas Wall’s contemporary retreat demonstrates that true luxury is not measured in square footage, but in thoughtful design, exceptional craftsmanship and connection to place. Conceived as a weekend “cabin” for a client drawn to contemporary and mid-century modern architecture, the residence evolved into a sophisticated composition of glass, steel, walnut, stone and concrete-inspired surfaces, with nearly every principal room oriented toward the water. Floor-to-ceiling glass, a dramatic floating walnut staircase, disappearing walls, a two-sided fireplace and striking walnut slatted ceilings blur the distinction between architecture and landscape while showcasing meticulous craftsmanship. Yet the home’s greatest achievement may be its restraint. Rather than competing with its spectacular setting, Wall designed the residence to frame it, allowing sunlight, water, woodland and changing seasons to become part of the interior experience. The result is a timeless retreat that makes a compelling case for a more sophisticated definition of luxury: less about excess and more about exceptional design, enduring materials and the emotional connection between a home and the land it inhabits.
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Remembering John Ferring: The Quiet Giant Who Changed St. Louis
St. Louis has lost one of its quiet giants. John Ferring was a visionary businessman, philanthropist and civic leader whose influence can be felt across the arts, education, healthcare, Forest Park and countless organizations serving the community. Yet those who knew him say his greatest gift was not simply his generosity—it was the sincerity, humility, discipline and personal commitment he brought to everything he supported. Ferring approached philanthropy as a partnership, investing his time, intellect and confidence along with his resources and inspiring others to think bigger and do better. Leaders from the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis, ArchCity Defenders and St. Louis Shakespeare Festival remember a man who listened, asked thoughtful questions and took genuine joy in helping people and institutions succeed. Together with his wife, Alison, Ferring helped shape a stronger, more compassionate St. Louis. His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy lives on in the institutions he strengthened, the leaders he inspired and the countless lives made better because he quietly invested in a city he never stopped believing in.
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FROM 3,000 TO 5,000: SABABA IS READY FOR ITS BIGGEST CELEBRATION YET
Sababa is getting bigger—and St. Louis is invited. After attracting approximately 3,000 guests in 2024, the Sababa Jewish Arts & Culture Festival could welcome as many as 5,000 people when it moves to downtown Clayton on Sunday, October 18, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Headlining the free celebration is Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Lisa Loeb, joined by an impressive musical lineup that includes Yuval Raphael, Nissim Black, Elana Jagoda and Klezundheit. Rooted in Jewish culture but created for everyone, Sababa—modern Hebrew slang for “awesome” or “cool”—invites the entire St. Louis community to experience contemporary Jewish culture through live music, art, kosher cuisine and family activities. From fine art and a 12-foot-tall “tree of life,” activation inspired by the tradition of placing written messages in Jerusalem's Western Wall, to challah braiding, a bubble party and plenty of pastrami and knishes, there is something for every generation. Admission is free, but advance registration is required. Come curious, come hungry—and absolutely come for Lisa Loeb. With potentially 5,000 people celebrating together in Clayton, that sounds pretty Sababa to us.
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Art of the Possible
St. Louis has long produced extraordinary artistic talent, but some of the city’s most important artists may still be hiding in plain sight. Here, we turn to three respected St. Louis gallerists—William Shearburn, Philip Slein and Tanner Steslow—to identify 18 artists they believe deserve the attention of serious collectors. Their selections range from internationally recognized talents including Kennedy Yanko, Katherine Bernhardt and Tom Friedman to rising and underrecognized artists such as Amy Granat and Jamie Adams (pictured here), whose work may represent compelling opportunities for collectors. The list also revisits historically significant figures such as Ernest Trova, Oliver Lee Jackson, Arthur Osver and Ernestine Betsberg, making the case that collecting well requires looking backward as well as forward. Ultimately, the story is about more than acquiring art. It is about developing the eye and conviction to recognize important work before consensus arrives—and preserving the remarkable artistic legacy and evolving cultural story of St. Louis in the process. Read about the background and see the works here.
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Riding for a Brighter Future: Why Team PALM is Pedal-Ready
PALM Health is putting its commitment to longevity into motion by joining Pedal the Cause, September 19–20, 2026, at the Family Arena in St. Charles. Led by Team Captain Mary Druyvesteyn, Team PALM is bringing together employees, members, friends, cyclists, spinners, volunteers and donors to help fund groundbreaking cancer research at Siteman Cancer Center and Siteman Kids at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. Since 2010, Pedal the Cause has raised more than $56 million, with 100% of participant-raised funds supporting cancer research. For PALM Health, a Ladue-based center dedicated to personalized longevity medicine and helping people live longer, healthier and more vibrant lives, the partnership is a natural extension of its mission. Through group rides, training sessions, “Pilates for a Purpose” classes and fundraising efforts, Team PALM invites the community to ride, spin, volunteer or donate—because every contribution helps create more birthdays, more celebrations and more time with the people we love.
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When the Clydesdales Came Trotting In
The Clydesdale certainly knows how to make an entrance. Grayling Holmes and his daughter, Megan Anne Holmes-Govier, experienced the VIP preview of James Beard Award-winning Chef Kevin Nashan’s new upscale American tavern at Ballpark Village—and the evening began spectacularly with the Budweiser Clydesdales trotting down Clark Avenue under police escort to ceremoniously deliver the beer.
Inside, the father-daughter duo discovered an equally memorable experience: warm wood paneling and hunter green accents, premium cocktails, oysters, jumbo shrimp, irresistible sliders and elevated tavern fare showcasing Nashan’s celebrated culinary touch. But what impressed them most was the extraordinary service. From the moment Megan, who uses a cane, arrived, the staff anticipated her needs with warmth, attentiveness and grace. “Daddy, I really feel special here,” she told her father.
For two people who have attended their share of VIP events, that simple observation became the evening’s greatest compliment. The Clydesdales delivered the spectacle, Nashan delivered the food, but the staff delivered something equally important—genuine hospitality.
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