New Year 2023

New Year 2023

Rebecca Scotland, Editor Phone: +44 (0) 203 970 0037 Website: www.lux-review.com Editor’s Letter New Year 2023 Hello and welcome to the NewYear 2023 issue of LUXlife! We would like to wish all of our LUXlife readers a happy new year that’s brimming with prosperity. It is a time for new beginnings, for reflection and looking ahead, for learning from past challenges and exploring new opportunities for growth. There’s no denying how 2022 was a highly successful year for the luxury industry, with it always showing its resilience by defying pandemics and economic headwinds and global recessions. It is an industry ready to face this fresh start head-on, and it is set for further growth this year as wealthy shoppers continue to travel and spend. And they are spoilt for choice. From a dreamy vacation to Madagascar, to a mother-child yoga retreat, to a premier fine art and wine festival, to the world’s best seafood restaurant – these are just some of the luxury offerings we’ve got to tickle your fancy in this issue. Indeed, we are celebrating the high-end businesses that put their clients first and deliver true opulence, whether travelling, relaxing, dining, or shopping. The team here at LUXlife magazine hope you enjoy reading this new year edition and we look forward to welcoming you back in the spring. The Perfect Balance

Contents 49. LSH Auto Australia: Premium Automotive Retailing 50. A Sunset Chateau: Most Elegant Boutique Hotel – Arizona 51. The Laylow, Autograph Collection: Most Stylish Hotel 2023 – Honolulu 52. HolyMama Retreats: Honouring the Mother 53. Andilana Beach Resort: The Vacation Of Your Dreams 54. Shabestan Pte Ltd: Best Middle Eastern Restaurant 2022 - Singapore 55. The Lost Explorer Mezcal Company Ltd: Best Handcrafted Spirits Brand 2023 – Mexico 56. Imbibe Living: Best Clean Beauty Brand – Byron Bay 58. Elena Spa Company: Provider of Luxury Spa Escapes 2023 - Maldives 58. Winners' Listing 37. Kurt Strand Super Yacht Designs: Most Innovative Luxury Yacht Design Enterprise – USA 38. Wendy Glaister Interiors: Beautiful Interior Done the Wendy Way 39. Dartmouth Distillery Co: Contemporary, Classic Gin 40. MAD Ideas Marketing: Best Vegan Brand Marketing Agency - UK 41. Legacie Holdings Limited: Invest In Your Own Slice of Heaven 42. By Arrangement: Lavish Creations For All Occasions 44. Cupcakeology: Most Creative Custom Cupcake Provider - Texas 45. Thunderbird Artists: Leading Premier Fine Art & Wine Festival 2022 – USA 46. Innovation Yachts SAS: Best End- to-End Naval Architect & Shipwrights Enterprise 2022 - Western Europe 48. Glass House Retreat: Wellness Retreat of the Year 2023 – Essex 4. News 6. Alexandra Dixon Interiors: Making a Statement Through Interior Design 7. Bloomsbury Flowers: Charming Flowers, Your Way 8. Barocco Coffee Company: Best Traditional Coffee Roastery - Ontario 9. Fleures Honey: Bespoke Natural Honey Brand of the Year 2022 - South Africa 10. Cocos Cosmetics™: Best Natural Plant- Based Cosmetics Brand 2022 – Israel 11. Forward Feature Bel Ombre: Bel Ombre, Mauritius - Where Lush Tropical Scenery Meets a Sparkling Turquoise Lagoon 12. Delavie Sciences: Most Innovative Age- Defying Skincare Serum Company - Northeast USA 14. AD BUSHTECH Creations 15. GIA Distillery: The Personal Touch 16. Bagels and Beyond: Bagel & Pastry Business of the Year 2022 - Massachusetts 17. McWhinney’s Sausages Ltd: Best Pork Sausage Manufacturer 2022 - Europe 18. The V Spot: Most Ethical Independent Fashion & Beauty eTailer - Australia 19. Marano Foods: Best Pasta Sauce Brand - USA 20. Phoenix One: Most Unique Superyacht Charter Business – Australia & LUXlife Customer Service Excellence Award 2022 21. Damas Jewellery LLC: Clean-Cut Class 22. Christian Bense Studio: The Perfect Balance 24. CellWine: Best Wine Collection Management App 2022 25. Lucky Tree Café & Makers Market: Coffee Roasters of the Year – North Carolina 26. Societe Du Rhum Barbancourt: Rum Producer of the Year - Haiti 28. Creacon Wellness Retreat: AGem of a Retreat 29. OTC Beverages Limited: Best Traditional Caribbean Drink Company 2022 - London 30. Vendula London Limited: Innovative Vegan Accessory Brand of the Year 2022 - UK 31. EAB Homes: Best Boutique Family Development Company – 2023 32. Mawimbi Seafood Restaurant and Cafe: The World’s Best Seafood 33. Boorowa Hotel Restaurant: Most Friendly Country Pub – Southern NSW 34. Canada's Great Kitchen Party: Best Annual Celebration of National Gastronomy – North America 36. Carta Coffee: Best Sustainable Hawaiian Coffee Bean Company 2022 Contents 6. 46.

Wildflower Farms,Auberge Resorts CollectionWelcomes Chef Michael Anthony of Gramercy Tavern for Exclusive Collaboration The Hudson Valley’s hottest new resort and culinary destination, Wildflower Farms, Auberge Resorts Collection, has partnered with Gramercy Tavern’s James Beard award-winning Executive Chef Michael Anthony to host an exclusive culinary experience with the resort’s Executive Chef Rob Lawson over January 27-28, 2023. Part of Auberge Resorts Collection’s Taste of Auberge program, the immersive weekend will include unforgettable epicurean events and exceptional new menu items at the resort’s signature restaurant, Clay. Chefs Lawson and Anthony have curated special dinners and events that highlight the intersection of tastes, sounds and aesthetics of both restaurants. The collaboration will forge a connection between the cuisines of New York City and the Hudson Valley by celebrating both Clay’s vegetable-forward, New-American fare and Gramercy Tavern’s contemporary, downtown edge, providing guests and locals with a one-of-a-kind destinationspecific dining experience. “We look forward to welcoming the esteemed Chef Michael Anthony to our new dining destination,” says Manolo Sorensen, general manager, Wildflower Farms, Auberge Resorts Collection. “We are thrilled to offer our guests this unique opportunity to experience New York City’s beloved Gramercy Tavern while visiting the resort. The restaurant’s commitment to using fresh, seasonal ingredients perfectly complements the focus of our culinary program, which creates stunning dishes that celebrate the local bounty native to the region.” A New York institution, Gramercy Tavern has long been respected for its ongoing commitment to using fresh, seasonal ingredients and for continually pushing to discover and innovate. At the helm of the restaurant for the last 16 years is Executive Chef Michael Anthony. Anthony, a thoughtful, cerebral culinary mastermind with a sophisticated approach came to Gramercy Tavern via Tokyo, Paris, and then New York, where he gained valuable experience at revered restaurants such as Blue Hill at Stone Barns and Daniel. “I am excited to bring a taste of NYC and Gramercy Tavern to the Hudson Valley,” shared Chef Anthony. “My team and I are looking forward to cooking alongside Executive Chef Lawson to create an immersive experience for the Wildflower Farms and Hudson Valley community. The menus at our restaurants are heavily influenced by using fresh and locally sourced ingredients, and we plan to have a lot of fun tasting, cooking, and highlighting the region together.” The weekend events will kick off with a special a la carte menu on Friday evening, curated by Chef Anthony, that will be offered alongside the Clay dinner menu. Attendees can immerse themselves in his signature dishes made with ingredients from the property’s local purveyors and farm, including cauliflower and kabocha squash curry, roasted chicken and potato dumpling, and sunchoke chowder with monkfish. On Saturday afternoon, Maplehouse, the resort’s cooking school and farm education center, will host a chef demonstration led by Chef Anthony. Guests will enjoy an interactive lunch, where they’ll learn how to ferment vegetables and make vegetable-forward dishes, such as cabbage and leek gyoza and carrot and mustard green stuffed egg crepes. The produce used will combine unique varieties of vegetables grown on-site with other local produce from Norwich Meadows Farm to highlight the very best in the region. NOFA’s Farmer of the Year, Zaid Kurdieh, has bestowed his expertise, advising on seasonal offerings for the menu and helping with the farm education during the class. That evening, Clay will host a pre-fixe dinner experience, curated between Chefs Lawson and Anthony. Delight in dishes like the Broken Pork, a unique twist on Clay’s signature broken beef dish, featuring Wildflower Farms pork, black butter potato, and head cheese ravioli, alongside a highly-curated wine pairing led by the resort’s Wine Director Vanessa Price. Wildflower Farms, Auberge Resorts Collection will welcome chef Michael Anthony from January 27-28, 2022. Both hotel and non-hotel guests are welcome to attend either Friday or Saturday night dinners by calling the resort or booking directly on Clay’s Resy page. The cooking class is only available to those who purchase the ‘Flavors of the Farm | A Weekend with Michael Anthony’ package, which includes two nights of accommodations, the cooking class for two, and access to the Saturday prix fixe dinner for two. The rate for the bundle package inclusive of all Saturday events starts at $3,450+ tax and gratuity. For more information or to book a stay, please visit aubergeresorts.com/wildflower-farms.

LUXLIFE MAGAZINE | 5 Baja California Invites Travelers to Discover Its Latest Attractions New resorts and restaurants are just a few reasons to visit this renowned wine region south of the border For travelers looking to wrap up the year or kick-off 2023 with a new adventure, Baja California offers plenty of enticing options for indulging the senses. Known for its exceptional dining scene and picturesque vineyards producing award-winning wines, the area has recently welcomed several new restaurants and a luxe wellness resort for travelers worthy of indulgence. Whether its discovering inventive cuisine or indulging in wellness-driven self-care, there’s no better time for travelers to feed their palate and soul with a visit to Baja California. New wellness, food, and wine options in the area include: JAK Restaurant at Encuentro Guadalupe Perched atop the hillside guestrooms of Encuentro Guadalupe and boasting sweeping views of the Valle, JAK, the hotel’s newest upscale eatery is set to open to both guests and public in February 2023. Featuring modern interpretations of regional dishes using locally sourced meats and produce, JAK will complement Tova, the luxury desert resort’s exclusive guests-only restaurant offering guests its signature BajaMed flavor fusion of regional cuisine combined with Mediterranean flavors. 'Wild' Mexican Cuisine at Salvaje Salvaje, which opened its doors in June 2022, is redefining traditional Mexican fare. Spanish for “wild,” Salvaje offers guests a unique interpretation of Mexican cuisine from start to finish, with homegrown ingredients that bring out the distinctive flavors of the region. A true sensory experience, dishes are paired with Xolo Vino wines from the onsite vineyard and are created to share on large wooden tables facing the lake with views of the vineyard and mountains. Guests are encouraged to embrace a primitive spirit by indulging in delicacies such as rice with seafood, served on banana leaves in place of plates, or the picaña barbecue served directly on the table with a shovel. Montevalle Wellness Resort Providing an exclusive and tranquil space for travelers seeking to boost their health as they head into the new year, Montevalle Wellness Resort opened its doors in October 2022. With spaces designed for healing, the resort offers state-of-the-art therapeutic amenities including intravenous infusions of vitamins and minerals specifically designed to detox and energize, boost the immune system, promote skin health, aid weight loss, increase hydration, revitalize the body, and eliminate toxins. An array of holistic therapies includes BioMagnetic, Rife, Mag Ray, hyperbaric oxygen, laser, ultraviolet blood irradiation, and pulsed electromagnetic field therapy. Guests can wind down their days relaxing in one of the resort’s luxury villas, or find calm in the meditation labyrinth or reflexology pathway. A variety of retreat packages are currently available. Discover New Wines in Valle de Guadalupe No trip to Baja California is complete without a visit to Valle de Guadalupe’s renowned wineries. Often referred to as the “Napa Valley of Mexico” and attracting a roster of national and international industry leaders, Valle de Guadalupe was recently named one of the world’s top wine regions in USA Today 10Best’s annual Reader’s Choice Awards, after being selected for consideration by a panel of top travel and wine writers. This recognition is the latest wine industry accolade for Baja California’s distinctive wine region which is home to more than 150 wineries best known for Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chenin Blanc, and Sauvignon Blanc.

6 Oct22507 Making a Statement Through Interior Design As the Best Home & Abroad Interior Design Studio - South East England, Alexandra Dixon Interiors has an exceptional reputation to uphold. Thankfully for the company, it oozes quality and opulence, creating magical results for homeowners in both the UK and Europe. With over 30 years of experience behind it, the future of Alexandra Dixon Interiors is sure to exceed expectations. Established in 1989 by Alexandra Dixon, Alexandra Dixon Interiors is a luxury interior design studio based in Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire that works on projects in both the UK and overseas. The company acts as a one-stop shop for professional and efficient interior design services, with this including initial design and specification to final installation and completion. Furthermore, Alexandra Dixon Interiors boasts an experienced and ambitious team of designers, who, along with Alexandra, have created a service that exudes relaxation and individuality. Customers receive a bespoke service and are provided with a wealth of ideas and advice. Alexandra Dixon Interiors typically attracts clients from the South of England; however, the company has worked on several international projects. For example, Alexandra Dixon Interiors has left its stamp on a boutique hotel in Provence, a newly built super yacht in Italy, and an opulent ski chalet in Chamonix. The company has whatever its clients need – it has the contacts, teams, and knowledge to make visions to come to life, be it builders, electricians, or specialist sound and lighting technicians. The team are integral to the company’s success; they listen to what the clients are looking for. In essence, the client’s aesthetic preferences are more important than the team’s style, and therefore, rather than forcing the client into a particular style, they advocate choices and encourage the clients to trust them. This approach results in a more integrated look and happy customers. The team has grown in tandem with the company – organically – and the majority of the recruits stem from personal recommendations or they have approached the business. In turn, there is an air of enthusiasm, creativity, and innovation. In 2020, the Covid-19 pandemic shook the world, causing a great amount of disruption. The pandemic, wrapped up with leaving the European Union, has created several hurdles for Alexandra Dixon Interiors, especially when it comes to acquiring materials and furniture from overseas. To tackle this, the company ensures that its clients are fully informed at the outset as to any potential impact that obtaining stock has on the deadline of the project. Alexandra Dixon Interiors’ passion and adaptability has ensured its survival throughout any challenges that it has faced over the past three decades. Remaining flexible and aware has also opened doors for Alexandra Dixon Interiors’ future. The company currently has an order book of projects that run far into 2023, and it has recently taken on a new designer and project management staff to help with its upcoming work. Success comes naturally to Alexandra Dixon Interiors, who consistently produce quality, luxury, and glamour. Contact: Stewart Jameson- [email protected] Company: Alexandra Dixon Interiors Web Address: https://www.alexandradixoninteriors.co.uk

7 Oct22464 Charming Flowers, YourWay Bloomsbury Flowers is a dazzling florist with a breathtaking talent. Its’ bespoke bouquets and luscious arrangements come from years of experience in the realm of floristry. Always keeping on top of its game, Bloomsbury Flowers has become a multi-award-winning florist that is extremely passionate and, ultimately, unstoppable. Here we find out more about Bloomsbury Flowers as it wins Wedding Florist of the Year – London. Bloomsbury Flowers was started 28 years ago in the heart of Covent Garden by two former ballet dancers and over this time it developed a loyal following and established itself as one of London’s foremost florists, setting standards for others to reach. Anoma Radkevitch took over ownership of this lovely shop earlier this year and the long established business is continuing to flourish under her guiding hands. She has always had a huge love for flowers and all things natural. She gathered her many years of experience working with flowers slowly as she started out in the industry in a small way whilst still an university student helping out with event floristry in prestigious London venues & overseas. However, this carried on very part time for more than 20 years, even whilst she pursued other ambitions & brought up a family too. Firstly she followed a career in international development, working for various charities, think tanks, the UN & the Commonwealth Secretariat with a focus on sustainable development & gender. And then she discovered her own entrepreneurial streak during a period of more than decade of running her own tea room in Windsor and bringing up four children. With the confidence gleaned from many years in business, in 2016 she took over a florist local to her, and rebranded it to be “Lady Flora”. It thrived throughout the periods of restrictions surrounding the pandemic and won the Prestige Award, Florist of the Year Award – twice! And then in early 2022 Anoma’s varied background & her depth of experience all came together perfectly and she completed the purchase of Bloomsbury Flowers. As Director of both floristry firms now, Anoma says she will always keep the two brand names, Bloomsbury Flowers and Lady Flora, as separate entities but they influence each other’s brilliance. By getting both their names out there, Anoma is slowly building a legacy that will last her lifetime – and beyond. Bloomsbury Flowers is an exquisite example of a florist that goes above and beyond for each of its customers, no matter their budget, occasion, or taste. It is particularly famous for the extravagant & splendid on-stage bouquets it creates for the special occasions and prestigious shows put on by The Royal Ballet and The Royal Opera House & other London theatres. It strives to produce the best of the best as it is now able to present male dancers – as well as female dancers – with lavish gifts of lush flowers that burst with colour and elegance, as thanks for their magnificent performances. However, not only this, it also works with firms, hotels, and other businesses to decorate their venues and breathe an air of elegance into them & it has a thriving wedding side too. So much so, that with the years of experience that Bloomsbury Flowers has, it is no surprise that it has been crowned the Wedding Florist of the Year - London. It works as a preferred supplier to many of London’s most stylish wedding venues and is able to create arrangements that truly represent the union between people, the love that is shared, and the passion of their unity as they embark on one of the biggest journeys of their lives. Setting the scene for an enchanting day or evening, Bloomsbury Flowers creates bouquets and boutonnieres to match, suit any style or theme. The future of Bloomsbury Flowers is bright and beautiful indeed. Its’ success knows no bounds as it continues to reach out to a wider variety of customers. The team of five is expanding. It is developing cutting gardens outside of London and plans to offer floristry classes in different locations and perhaps move to providing a full event service too. Visit its Covent Garden store, or call, to discuss how it can translate your dreams into a reality, no matter the occasion. Contact: Anoma Radkevitch Company: Bloomsbury Flowers Web Address: https://www.bloomsburyflowers.co.uk/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomsburyflowerslondon/

8 Oct22096 Best Traditional Coffee Roastery - Ontario It seems almost an understatement to say that the coffee industry is competitive. Yet, Barocco Coffee has built its formidable reputation on the twin pillars of quality and customer service. Led by Bruno Colozza, (Founder of b espresso bar, established in 2004), Barocco has become synonymous with excellence in the industry. On the back of the roastery’s recognition in the Food and Drink Awards, LUXlife took a closer look at Barocco’s dedication to coffee excellence. Barocco Coffee Company is celebrating its 12th year in business with an impressive string of industry recognitions. Focusing on small batch artisanal roasting, they have become the roaster of choice for many of Ontario’s leading restaurants, bakeries, hotels and bars. This past fall, Toronto was selected as the first city in Canada to have its restaurants awarded Michelin stars. Barocco Coffee is served at several of them, including Alo, Alobar and Osteria Giulia. This capped off a year that garnered Barocco Coffee positions of excellence in both the Toronto Life and Canada’s 100 Best magazines. By offering a full array of blends and single origin coffees, they can satisfy almost any desired taste profile. Bruno joined Barocco in 2012 and turned the company’s sights from a limited economical (private label) retail offering to a Barocco branded premium offering. Focusing on targeting Toronto’s burgeoning fine dining scene and integrating with cultural events helped propel Barocco into a highly sought-after brand. The Toronto International Film Fest, Sundance Film Festival, Grey Goose Marché and many other street and food festivals chose Barocco Coffee to be served and enjoyed. In 2015, partner Phil Lanzarotta joined the devoted team and brought his vast entrepreneurial family business experience and over a decade at Kellogg Company to implement necessary organizational improvements that have helped Barocco provide an industry leading customer service experience. By adding a host of related products to their offerings such as Citizen Teas loose leaf tea, non-dairy milk alternatives, barista tools and artisanal chocolate products, Barocco is able to satisfy even more of their customers’ needs. Head Roaster and Production Manager Noah Walker, leads the roasting facility with an unrelenting pursuit of excellence. By customizing their traditional batch roaster, he has honed his craft to become one of the specialty coffee sector’s brightest young stars. Winning 21 medals over the past three Golden Bean North America coffee roasting competitions suggests that his peers agree. Barocco opened its first “bricks and mortar” location a few months before the pandemic arose, called Barocco x Nino. One area that Barocco has worked diligently to change is regarding the role of the customer, as Colozza explains in more detail. “One example of our commitment to our customers is offering on-going barista training and support. We don’t believe in traditional vendor/client relationships. “Instead, we seek to foster partnerships where our customers understand that we are equally responsible for achieving excellence. The journey of the coffee bean from farms in South and Central America, Africa, Indonesia and beyond; is long and arduous. Climate change is diminishing this resource and with demand increasing it’s so important that we don’t disrespect nature’s gift to us. Coffee is second only to water in global consumption. So, if we don’t all work together to ensure the provision of a great tasting, ethically sourced cup of coffee, we have broken a critical link in that chain” The year ahead will likely present more challenges with inflation and rising interest rates, making it even more competitive to attain a share of the consumer’s tightening budget. By continuing to focus on the quality of what ultimately goes into the cup, Barocco Coffee is positioned to weather the storms that may come its way in 2023. Future plans include a roastery café at their main facility and further investment and improvements as well as marketing it’s coffee beans to markets beyond the Canadian border. “Barocco Coffee will work to ensure their position as an industry leader is built to last.” Colozza concludes. “The Latin words on our coat of arms reflect our belief in the importance our people, respecting what the earth gives us and doing everything with passion. Terra, Humanitas, Passionis. We are truly honoured to be recognized by LuxLife; a globally read publication.” Company: Barocco Coffee Company Contact: Bruno Colozza- [email protected] Address: 1020 Meyerside Dr Unit 4, Mississauga, Ontario, L5T 1K7, Canada Telephone: 905 696 0303 Website: https://baroccocoffee.com/

9 Sep22522 Bespoke Natural Honey Brand of theYear 2022 - South Africa With its distinctive branding and deep golden colour, Fleures Honey is not just another honey manufacturer. Its commitment to the environment and keeping small-scale farming alive is clearly evident as we take a closer look at the company in the wake of it receiving this Food and Drink Award. Fleures Honey is a honey producer based in Potchefstroom in the north west province of South Africa and specialises in the production of pure, natural and pollen-rich honey. Committed to building meaningful, long-lasting relationships with stakeholders upstream and downstream within the honey value chain, Fleures Honey believes in creating positive change and sustainable bee populations that resonate beyond its influence into the wider community. Fleures Honey is dedicated to travelling around the continent of Africa, meeting and interacting with the local honey producers and, along the way, selecting the finest honey of the season. The firm’s honey producers are typically small-scale subsistence farmers which Fleures Honey fiercely believes in supporting and therefore pays above the average market pricing for their honey, all of which is hand-harvested by more than 10,000 small-producing beekeepers and delivered in its raw form to the company’s facilities. Once the raw honey arrives at the production facilities it is carefully filtered to remove impurities, before being bottled and sold online or distributed to retailers and, ultimately, to consumers. Fleures Honey can even be personally branded to create bespoke corporate gifts or wedding favours. Recently, Fleures Honey was awarded the prestigious title of Bespoke Natural Honey Brand of the Year 2022 - South Africa in the LUXlife Food and Drink Awards. This accolade is testament to the dedication and hard work of the Fleures Honey team, as well as the firm’s commitment to supporting sustainable small-scale farmers throughout Africa. Company: Fleures Honey Web Address: www.fleures.co.za

10 Oct22011 Best Natural PlantBased Cosmetics Brand 2022 – Israel Cocos Cosmetics™ is a progressive, naturedriven beauty company that has changed the way we look after our bodies. Finding more ways to preserve and take care of our skin, this company presents us with all kinds of products that can alter our relationship with ourselves. Here we look deeper at what the team at Cocos Cosmetics™ has created as the business wins this prestigious award. The Cocos Cosmetics™ story began in 2011 when the team wanted to create healthier practices for themselves, in order to feel better, fresher, and happier. This included what they ate and drank, the sports that they played, and what they put onto their skin. Our skin is the gateway to our bodies, and it is of utmost importance that we treat it right. That’s why Cocos Cosmetics™ came to fruition. As the market is highly saturated, it can be difficult to carve out a path for ourselves within the health and beauty sphere. However, with the power of its innovative products, Cocos Cosmetics™ has made a name for itself and not only nestled within the industry, but become a leader in its own right. For facials, there are creams, serums, oils, standard masks and detox masks, and hydrosol facial toners that help to address any issues we may be having with our skin. These problems may be sensitivity, acne, aging, or oily or dry skin, and we can truly rely on Cocos Cosmetics™ to help us when we feel there may be nowhere else to turn. When it comes to our bodies, Cocos Cosmetics™ offers butters, scrubs, and spa salts to soothe, smooth, and moisturize us all over. Much like with our facial skin, our bodies can face problem areas such as eczema/ dry skin, cellulite, and acne – all of which can be improved with the proper use of certain products. Of course, we can’t forget about our hair. With plenty of sumptuous products for proper hair treatments, Cocos Cosmetics™ guarantees a delicious scent and helps with oily hair, dandruff, sensitive scalp, and more. All of the products at Cocos Cosmetics™ are full to the brim with natural ingredients that provide a luxurious experience every time. From pomegranate to coconut oil, argan oil to jojoba oil, mango to vanilla, and very many more, there’s a scent for every special moment – or simply a way to lift our mood even throughout the most mundane days. Cocos Cosmetics™ serves clients of all ages and genders who would like to preserve their beauty and feel good in their own skin. Its products have been used by a plethora of famous people – from musicians to athletes, actors to models, and more – but, most importantly, we can rest assured that all of the products have our best interests at heart no matter what we do for a living. For those searching for ways to improve their health, Cocos Cosmetics™ offers an elevated range of products and free beauty hacks that will leave us feeling as though we’re glowing from the inside out. Encouraging everyone to take charge of their own well-being, Cocos Cosmetics™ does all it can to supply the tools needed, whilst being a support system for them. This has built a friendly atmosphere that keeps customers coming back for more, whether they intend to buy something or simply enjoy some free advice. The team behind Cocos Cosmetics™ is passionate about self-care and the health of the planet. Without the team, Cocos Cosmetics™ couldn’t be where it is today, and they are all extremely proud of the progress of the business. With this in mind, it is clear to see how much Cocos Cosmetics™ cares about the environment. Ensuring that trees are being planted around the world, CO2 emissions are being reduced, products and packaging are as plant-based as possible, and 160 countries around the world have access to its products means that Cocos Cosmetics™ is doing its part to make the world a better place. Now, Cocos Cosmetics™ has won Best Natural Plant-Based Cosmetics Brand 2022 – Israel and we are sure to see it helping even more people to find glowing confidence. We believe in Cocos Cosmetics™ because it believes that beauty is more than skin deep – but the skin is a great place to start! Contact: Helen Stuchevsky Company: Cocos Cosmetics™ Web: https://www.cocoscosmetics.com/

11 Aug22379 Bel Ombre, Mauritius -Where Lush Tropical Scenery Meets a Sparkling Turquoise Lagoon A witness to the centuries gone by, Bel Ombre in the south of Mauritius is a unique place steeped in history and culture that brings an extra dose of “extraordinary” to those who visit. Ideal in any season and offering an exceptional variety of activities to visitors seeking a unique experience, Bel Ombre is a naturally beautiful area where the lush tropical scenery merges with a protected lagoon of sparkling turquoise water. The Bel Ombre territory places sustainable tourism and community inclusion at its heart and supports several projects to improve the biodiversity in the region and protect the lagoon. The five star Heritage Le Telfair is a plantation style all-suites resort in Bel Ombre that provides luxury accommodation for couples and families, whilst delivering a high level of personal service with a dedicated residence host. The hotel is Green-Key accredited and offsets all carbon emissions from each guest’s stay. Guests can expect to wake up to the sound of the Indian Ocean lapping against the shore, breathe in the scent of the gentle sea breeze and listen to the peaceful melody of tropical birds singing. The beautifully appointed suites feature four poster beds, wooden floors and freestanding baths, designed for the utmost in luxury and comfort. The hotel offers a palette of luxury hospitality that combines a superb beach, luxuriant nature, history and adventure. Within its unique location in Bel Ombre it boasts a wide selection of land and water based activities, to entertain the most adventurous types. Special facilities of note include an 18 hole championship golf course (voted the best golf course in the Indian Ocean at the World Travel Awards), varied culinary concepts in 12 restaurants with the exclusive Gourmet Bliss package, an exceptional wellness centre and spa which offers bespoke tailored treatments and a range of wellness treatments in nature, a Nature Reserve that has a range of adventure and nature experiences, a Beach Club for the ultimate beach and chilled sun experience, and a 19th Century historic plantation house Le Chateau de Bel Ombre which serves fine dining cuisine in a romantic setting, as well as picnics and afternoon tea. Families are also well catered for with a complimentary baby corner for infants & toddlers under 3 years of age, a kids club and teenagers programme 12-17. Not to be missed is a trek and picnic with a Mauritian Wildlife Ranger in the stunning Bel Ombre Nature Reserve, who will explain and identify species of birds such as the pink pigeon, point out wildlife such as monkeys, fruit bats and deer and explain about the reforestation project to encourage endemic species of trees. Further afield is the Chamarel 7 Coloured Earth Geopark where visitors can explore this unique coloured landscape and marvel at Mauritius’ highest waterfall at Chamarel. Another interesting attraction in Bel Ombre, and popular with children is the World of Seashells which has the world’s largest collection of sea shells. Key Facilities: • Nature Reserve with range of activities • Swimming pools • Beach Club • Wellness centre & spa • Gym and classes • Gourmet Bliss: 12 restaurants offering a range of dining experiences • 19th century chateau • 18 hole championship golf course and 9 hole golf course • Complimentary watersports and snorkelling • Complimentary baby, kids and teens club • Onsite kite surfing school • Concierge service • Free wifi Website URL: www.heritageresorts.mu Telephone Number +44 2070 48 20 32 Email Address :[email protected] Forward Feature

12 Nov22256 Founded and co-developed by Harvard Medical School Longevity expert Dr. David Sinclair, Delavie Sciences was born with the desire to improve peoples’ self-confidence through unique, ground-breaking skincare – whether SPF, anti-aging, or moisturising – that you can’t get anywhere else. We got in touch with Delavie Sciences President, Kyle Landry to learn more about the company and its products. Most Innovative Age-Defying Skincare Serum Company - Northeast USA

LUXLIFE MAGAZINE | 13 New Year 2023 All of the products crafted by Delavie Sciences are clinically tested and PETA animal test-free certified. They are also going through the process of becoming Leaping Bunny, non-GMO, and gluten-free certified. Now, in addition to the Aeonia line it is launching, Delavie Sciences is working on three other patented ingredients, all as Kyle says, “with killer backstories”. One is a mixture of enzymes that will help cleanse the face, unclog the pores, remove dead cells; patented and licensed from Harvard Medical School, along with the company’s own internal patents. Finally, the third proprietary ingredient is Delavie’s osmotic stress protection factor. This ingredient increases cell viability and protects it from the likes of osmotic stress, pollution and other environment stress factors. This is going to be used in a line of daily face and body lotions and moisturisers. Thus, customers will have the complete package, being able to cleanse, rejuvenate and revitalize skin with Delavie’s patented skincare products. The Delavie Sciences team focus their attention on skin problem trends – and they solve them with an unmatched level of expertise. They develop the technology needed internally from their own collection of novel biology that it has been collected from around the world, such as the space station, 5,000 feet below the surface of the earth, abandoned gold mines, oceans, landfills, and compost heaps. These novel organisms can be leveraged to create skintransforming ingredients. The company’s latest product, Aeonia age defying serum is the first product that features the patented Bacillus Lysate that was researched aboard the International Space Station. Kyle Landry tells us, “After it was brought back down to earth, we incorporated in the serum. We’re planning to release an eye lotion, eye repair, and then a facial moisturiser. We may also develop a sunscreen, which we hope will be released by the beginning of 2024.” Kyle enthuses, “Innovation is our work. We’re not buying ingredients that everyone else can buy. We’re making the ingredients and then making the product around those ingredients. So, we innovate every day. And the goal is to make products that no one can get anywhere else.” Delavie Sciences has a team of hardcore scientists using every type of science you can imagine, from genomics, proteomics, transcriptomics, epigenetics, molecular biology, protein chemistry, microbiology, emulsion, and chemistry, to name a few. Kyle himself has a PhD in food science, having done a postdoc at Harvard Medical School in Genetics and Longevity. He is also a faculty member at Boston University in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences. He explains, ““I’m in deep with the science. Much more so than you would expect for a cosmetic company. We can leverage all of that experience to innovate in the space. So, we look at things (or in areas) that cosmetic companies don’t normally look at. We look at microbiology, we look at fungi, we look at genetics. We have the tools to innovate. We go deeper than just the bacteria on your skin. We’re looking at the mechanisms. We’re looking at the molecular impact, and really how to change that.” Indeed, the skincare industry is one with a lot of noise, so the focus, and the challenge, is standing out in that space. Kyle says, “The technology is pretty universal. That’s where we’re different. And the challenge is getting people to realise that we’re not just another white labelled product. We’re innovative, making novel products that no one else can get. So, it is a challenge, but we’ve seen a lot of momentum.” Kyle and the team have found that skincare in the US is addressed very much at a superficial level, but Delavie Sciences’ products work at a cellular molecular level in order to really do the job. Kyle states, “It’s promoting the rejuvenation of cells and making the skin appear more youthful.” The team are also researching and developing a whole host of ingredients that will really change the game in the industry in terms of helping to remove wrinkles, increase moisture, and reduce inflammation. Again, they will be going down the novel patented proprietary root, as well as have Harvard Medical School, Boston University, and Jet Propulsion Labs credentials behind them. Ultimately, it’s easy to see how Delavie Sciences has come to achieve such success within the LUX Global Excellence Awards 2022, between its team’s nextlevel expertise and devotion to innovation, and producing the most superior, sciencebacked, and safest products that can’t just be found anywhere. It’s not only marketing. Company: Delavie Sciences Contact: Kyle Landry Email: [email protected] Website: www.delaviesciences.com

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15 Nov22745 The Personal Touch GIA Distillery is a place where the personal touch means everything, with such care and attention to detail being what makes it stand out from the rest. Named in the LUXlife Leaders in Luxury Awards 2023 as the Best Bourbon Whiskey Producer 2023 – Northeast USA, we took a closer look to sample what sets this astonishing provider apart. The unique taste of quality liquor is one which is hard to beat and easy to recognize. GIA Distillery has managed to build a reputation in recent years which has more than put it on the map. For those who know fine spirits, the results truly speak for themselves. Experience underpins every part of GIA Distillery. This detailed knowledge allows it to bring that unique hand-crafted touch to the distilling process, creating some of the most stunning spirit products. Francesca Grappa and renowned FJW Solera Style American Whiskey both embody the values and qualities that set GIA Distillery apart from the crowd. Francesca Grappa is created the old world Italian way, by using 100% of the Moscato grapes and rested in French Oak Barrels. This process provides something truly stunning, a much appreciated smoothness, and a golden color in a world of its own. The same is true of FJW Solera Style American Whiskey. GIA Distillery uses a Spanish aging technique to create a spirit with real depth and body. The Solera waterfall blending style of aging speaks for itself with enviable smoothness in its flavor taste and color. The handcraft process creates a unique spirit to enjoy! It’s clear that GIA Distillery has a certain audience in mind for its products, looking towards those who are more discerning with what they drink, those who want something different from the norm, and those who are willing to wait for a liquor unlike any other. With such a strong reputation within the industry, we cannot wait to see what GIA Distillery will do next! Company: GIA Distillery Web Address: https://www.giadistillery.com/

16 Sep22611 Bagel & Pastry Business of the Year 2022 - Massachusetts An award-winning minority-owned business, Bagels and Beyond makes its 20 types of bagels freshly inhouse, in addition to its own cream cheese, muffins, pastries, and other delights. Recognised within the Food and Drink Awards 2022 for its ability to provide the best quality of breakfast while being known for value, we got in touch with owner, Michael Davis to learn more. Michael Davis has always had a passion for food, having attended the top culinary school, the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY, and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management. Since then, he has acquired extensive industry experience, having worked in Forbes four- and five-star resorts, corporate chain restaurants, mom-and-pop restaurants, BYOB restaurants, Asian tapas, and cocktail bars. He was also a merchant marine prior to leaving and opening his own bagel shop. He has a wife, Chelsea, of 10 years in July 2023 and a three-year-old son named Landon. Now, as owner of Bagels and Beyond, Michael makes the majority of the bagels himself, while joined by a devoted team who help to make everything inhouse, from the dough to rolling them to rising them and baking them. Not only does this freshly-made approach make Bagel and Beyond’s food stand out from the rest, but also the texture and flavours of its bagels. Speaking of his team, Michael says, “My staff know they are the blood of my business.” He elaborates, “I am the heart that keeps everyone moving but they are responsible for all the functions in the daily operation. I treat my staff like family as long as you’re willing to show up, work hard, commit to the best quality, and do it with a laugh and smile. “We try to do dinners or events together once or twice a year. For instance, we took all the summer staff out for a lovely seafood dinner or took the year-round staff to indoor go-kart racing and dinner.” In peak season, Bagels and Beyond now earns close to $18k a week, having grown year on year in sales since it was stablished by Michael five years ago, while also expanding its wholesaling to other businesses. He goes on to say, “We don’t hold our bagels back from anyone. Big, tall, short, small – as long as you pay, our bagels can go home with you.” It hasn’t all been roses for the business, though. Bagels and Beyond is facing the same industry challenges that everyone else is facing: product availability, shipping delays, rising costs, among others. When COVID reared its ugly head, Michael and the team were concerned that it would put an end to Bagels and Beyond – but with resilience, they soldiered on and offered a 100% takeaway service, with Michael saying, “We maintain high standard of quality because I’m not willing to compromise quality just to bring in another low-end product to fill the gap.” The business came out on the other side, and it has since been able to flourish. Michael explains, “COVID proved to us that even though we offer indoor seating, most people are pleased to get our bagels and take them home just the same. My staff all stayed through COVID and they were rewarded for so. Like I said before, it’s a family mentality. We pull each other up and help when needed.” Now, Michael and the team are excitedly looking towards the bright future ahead. Michael gives us an insight into what this entails for Bagels and Beyond: “We are currently in the process of opening another shop in a highly visited town on Cape Cod. This is planned to be in spring/summer 2023.” Company: Bagels and Beyond Contact: Michael Davis Email: [email protected] Website: www.bagelsandbeyondcc.com

17 Sep22431 The Flamin’ Hot has had a fiery launch in Northern Ireland at the Belfast Christmas Market. Award-winning fish and chip shop, Chipmongers, has included the Flamin’ Hot as a battered sausage with a delicious maple and mustard mayo at their market stall and have seen sales of the chilli and leek flavoured sausage soar. The Gluten Free Sausage is something that the McWhinney family have put their heart and soul into after finding out that one of their loved ones has coeliac disease. Scott McWhinney, Sales and Marketing Director had this to say: “We believe everyone should be able to enjoy our sausages and when one of our own was no longer able to, due to coeliac disease, we put every effort into being able to produce something that they could consume safely. “I’m very excited and delighted to be able to say the product has been launched to market and is available for everyone to enjoy.” If you are considering stocking a McWhinney’s Sausage, you can contact the company directly through its website or via email. Company: McWhinney’s Sausages Ltd Email: [email protected] Website: www.mcwhinneys.com The business, which takes pride in the quality and consistency of its sausages, is heading into its 125th anniversary in 2023 and is celebrating by giving away £125,000 worth of sausage and chips meals. The scheme, which will involve 52 food outlets, will see McWhinney’s provide each outlet with 10 free boxes of sausages to give away as part of a “buy a fish and chips, get a sausage and chips free” deal. This will not only show appreciation to the loyal customers that have been enjoying McWhinney’s sausages for the past number of years, but will help support the outlets involved. Managing Director, Kevin McWhinney had this to say: “To be able to say that we are heading towards 125 years of continuous business is a massive achievement. We feel it is only right that we mark the occasion with this giveaway. It is very important to us that we give something back to the people who have been supporting McWhinney’s, not just as a business but as a family. “I am also very excited that my son, Scott has joined the business this year, so that our family heritage will continue for years to come, and our loyal customers can continue to enjoy our delicious sausages as they have always done.” McWhinney’s has recently launched its Gluten Free and Flamin’ Hot Sausages, two products which have been labours of love for all involved. McWhinney’s Sausages, founded in 1898, is thrilled to have received the LUXlife Best Pork Sausage Manufacturer 2022 – Europe award for the second consecutive year. Best Pork Sausage Manufacturer 2022 - Europe

18 Oct22068 Most Ethical Independent Fashion & Beauty eTailer - Australia When Jannifer Black founded The V Spot, her aim was to showcase a collection of fashion and beauty products that prove you really can have it all and be vegan, eco, ethical, and fabulous. An online destination for the fashion “conscience”, it offers the ultimate in eco and ethical fashion (apparel, shoes, bags, and accessories such as jewellery, watches, and belts), and clean beauty (skincare, make-up, haircare, and fragrance). In light of The V Spot’s success within the Global Vegan Awards 2022, we got in touch with Jannifer herself to learn more about her brand. The V Spot is a one-woman show proudly offering vegan, cruelty-free, ethically-made, environmentally-friendly products, while being supportive of indie designers, small businesses, solo makers, and communities, and ensuring that everyone in the process is paid and treated fairly. Beginning our chat with Jannifer Black, she tells us, “I created The V Spot with the aim of elevating the vegan lifestyle beyond just a diet. I’ve lived a life always trying to do and be better to everyone I share this planet with. To inspire others to make better, conscious choices – when it is needed – is the mission.” She highlights Animals, People, and Planet as her company’s core values, explaining, “These values have been my raison d'etre from the very beginning of establishing The V Spot. As a fourth-generation vegetarian (and vegan for 30 years this year), animals were my number one reason to not participate in their unnecessary exploitation. But as an intersectional vegan, it’s always made sense to me that being sensitive and considerate to people and the earth was as equally important.” Thus, Jannifer has a personal connection to everything The V Spot stocks. Obviously, every brand and product in store must meet her core values – but it goes beyond that. If it’s not something that Jannifer uses or wears herself, then it doesn’t make the cut. Vegan shoppers will know how it is difficult to purchase online, so Jannifer believes in relaying her personal experience to her customers. She states, “I’m not interested in what’s popular or what’s easy. I look for authenticity, efficacy, beauty, functionality, quality – not necessarily in this order – but I believe my discernment makes for some of the best product offerings around!” And she knows exactly who her customer is, with a gender mix of 69% female, 16% male, and 15% other. They are aged 18-65 with the biggest concentration in the 35-44 bracket (29%), followed by 25-34 (22%) and 45-54 (20%). Jannifer says, “Anecdotally, my client split is about 60% non-vegan and 40% vegan, and I love that approximately 10% of our non-vegan customers buy for their vegan friend or family member. Although, I always tell people you don’t need to be vegan or vegetarian to enjoy the products I stock. They’re for anyone looking for quality. It just so happens that cruelty to animals isn’t included.” She notes the most popular products among her customers, too. In the clean beauty category, these are the range of natural deodorants (in particular the zero-waste options by Meow Meow Tweet and Coconut Matter); the gender-neutral, non-toxic, and uber-cool fragrances by DEDCOOL; and the incredible plastic-free, multi-use colour Balmies by Axiology. Then the fashion products include Alexandra K and their high-end luxe handbags; and the loud, proud, and (some very) cheeky statement socks by Blue Q. The V Spot is proud to have newly introduced the Axiology Balmies to its product range, and in fact, the Australian market. Jannifer comments, “For a long while, most of our brands were exclusively sold through us. Our success with these brands did “inspire” competitors to introduce these brands to their own stores. Testament to our passion for supporting only small makers and businesses.” Its current website was also recently launched in June 2022 which saw the store migrate to a different ecommerce platform – a huge task considering the company was six and a half years in with more than 2,000 products. Now settled into the new site, Jannifer is still working on improving it to make it a better, more informative, and prettier user experience. Looking ahead, as Jannifer continues to dedicate herself to her passion, we have no doubts about the bright future that lies ahead of her company and the positive impact she is having our planet. Company: The V Spot Contact: Jannifer Black Email: [email protected] Website: www.thevspot.com.au

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