New Year 2024 Best Hospitality Industry Linen Manufacturer 2023 Linen. One of the world’s top textile picks for luxury bed, bath, and table coverings. A material so versatile, it’s become synonymous with high class lodgings and boutique home life alike. However, to expand upon the potential that linen holds, one must approach the creation process with an appreciation for the finer things in life. Imbued with this very quality, CASTELLO® has become the definitive provider and manufacturer of linen. Founded in 1935, CASTELLO®’s history spans almost four generations, each associated with the production, and supply of high-quality linen for some of the most reputable hotels and establishments.
Rebecca Scotland, Editor Phone: +44 (0) 203 970 0018 Website: www.lux-review.com Editors Letter Hello and welcome to the New Year 2024 issue of LUXlife! The new year is upon us, and for many, it is a time for setting resolutions, whether going to the gym more, becoming more organised, learning a new skill or hobby, or spending more time with family and friends, to name a few. As such, ‘quiet luxury’ is looking to prevail throughout 2024, with the next generation pushing for luxury that is high quality, sustainable, and meaningful, as opposed to burning through trends fast. Now, in our latest issue, we are welcoming the new year with an array of our award-winning businesses who will be leaving you spoilt for choice. Whether you’re looking to start your year slow or to get your next adventure booked, we’ve got all the inspiration you need, from a health and wellness retreat in County Wexford, to a mountain hideaway in Austria. Meanwhile, on our front cover, we are delighted to feature CASTELLO®, our Best Hospitality Industry Linen Manufacturer 2023, offering a whole world of luxury linen. With high-profile clientele including the likes of Air Canada, Hilton Hotels, Westin Resorts, and Four Seasons Hotels, CASTELLO® provides a wide range of fine Italian products in the form of bed, bath, table linens, and accessories for you to indulge in at home, and for hotels and private label industries around the world. The team here at LUXlife wishes you a wonderful start to 2024 and we look forward to welcoming you back in the spring.
4. News 6. CASTELLO*: Best Hospitality Industry Linen Manufacturer 2023 10. A Gem of a Retreat 11. Biodynamic Skincare Sure to Transform 12. Birmingham’s Best in Estate and Letting 13. The Art of Luxury Travel 14. Maryland’s Premier Med Spa 15. Promoting Spirituality with Dazzling Crystal Candles 16. Boutique Properties Bound by Luxury 17. Sustainable Luxury Architecture 18. Best Plant-Based Vegan Hair Care Brand 2023 - USA 19. E Plus A Equals Unique and Beautiful Designs 20. Best Family Run Boarding Kennels 2023 - East Lindsey 22. Most Innovative 360 Photobooth Manufacture 2023 - Los Angeles 23. Best Hotel Management Company 2023 - Greece 24. Find Your Spirit at Wadi Rum, Jordan 25. Beauty for All Seasons 26. California’s Ultimate Interior Design Experience 27. Best Dessert Catering & Mobile Bar Hire Business 2023 - West Midlands 28. Don’t Remember the Day – Remember the Moment 29. Best Wine eTailer 2023 - Italy 30. Retreat to a Place Focusing on You 31. Accessible Wellness Experiences for All 32. Best Family and Lifestyle News Platform 2023 33. Eco-Conscious Clean Skincare Brand of the Year 2023 Contents
Leading luxury hospitality company Four Seasons, US-based real estate development firm Two Roads Development and Access Real Estate announce plans for The Ocean Club, Four Seasons Residences, Bahamas. Anticipated to open in 2027 and set within an oceanfront enclave on Paradise Island in The Bahamas, the upcoming residential community will present a curated collection of 67 turnkey Private Residences managed by Four Seasons located in close proximity to The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas. In celebration of the 60th anniversary of The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas, the debut of The Ocean Club, Four Seasons Residences, Bahamas will offer discerning buyers an exceptional opportunity to own part of a legendary destination, while enjoying the privacy, amenities and unparalleled service for which Four Seasons is renowned. "We look forward to partnering with Four Seasons to celebrate this iconic destination and to set a new standard for luxury living in The Bahamas," states Reid Boren, Managing Partner, Two Roads Development. "With convenient access from major US and international gateways, The Ocean Club, Four Seasons Residences, Bahamas will allow owners and their guests to experience the very best service-rich luxury lifestyle paired with the amenities of The Bahamas' most legendary resort right next door." "Since 2017, Four Seasons has been proud to be part of the Paradise Island community and manage such a legendary property that is beloved by many," says Bart Carnahan, President, Global Business Development, Portfolio Management and Residential, Four Seasons. "Our new Private Residences will be the perfect complement to The Ocean Club Resort while offering a more permanent address to those looking to make this special destination their home with the service and lifestyle excellence that only Four Seasons can offer." "We're delighted to work with Four Seasons and Two Roads Development on the Ocean Club Private Residences. As a long-term investor on Paradise Island, we continue to stimulate economic growth. This project will bring an additional USD 400 million in economic activity to the Bahamas and is projected to create around 200 full-time jobs," says Jonah Sonnenborn, head of Access Real Estate. The Ocean Club, Four Seasons Residences, Bahamas, Coming Soon to Paradise Island Four Seasons to expand residential portfolio to The Bahamas with luxury oceanfront Private Residences in celebration of The Ocean Club's 60th anniversary Timeless Island Architecture Designed by SB Architects, a leader in hospitality design and with interiors by New York-based Champalimaud Design, a renowned design and planning firm specializing in bespoke, high-end hospitality and residential design, The Ocean Club, Four Seasons Residences, Bahamas will brilliantly capture the beauty of the island throughout the development. All homes will feature oceanfront or ocean views, floor-to-ceiling windows, and expansive outdoor verandas for indoor and outdoor entertaining. In addition, each home will have an open floorplan that features premium fixtures, cabinetry, fittings and details throughout. Residences will range from 3,124-interior square-foot (290 square metre) two-bedrooms and 4,073-square-foot (378 square metre) threebedroom homes to 5,028-square-foot (467 square metre) four-bedroom offerings. Five-bedroom beach villas will offer 7,459 square feet (693 square metres) of interior living space with 6,604 square feet (614 square metres) of outdoor terraces, including a private pool. Penthouses will offer an average of 5,263 square feet (489 square metres) of interior living space and 3,917 square feet (364 square metres) of outdoor space, including a private pool. On-Site Four Seasons Amenities and Resort Access Adding to the experience of living with Four Seasons will be an array of on-site offerings for residents to explore. Amenities will include an oceanfront swimming pool with private cabanas and clubhouse, an owners' library, as well as a lounge, private cellar and rum room, coworking space, well-equipped children's playroom, multi-use media room, luxuriously-appointed indoor and outdoor spa treatment rooms and a state-of-the-art fitness centre containing dedicated outdoor space. The property will also feature a beach-front restaurant and bar offering main and private dining rooms. Residents will also have access to the amenities at The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas, including its famed Versailles-inspired Gardens and restaurant Dune by Michelin-star Chef Jean-Georges. Residents are welcome to enjoy the Resort's three swimming pools, six Har-Tru tennis courts, eight Balinese-inspired spa villas, daily yoga and pilates and shuttle service to the 18-hole par 72 Tom Weiskopf-designed championship golf course. Through a dedicated team led by a Director of Residences, homeowners will experience legendary Four Seasons service to effortlessly oversee all aspects of home care. Sales Information Marketing and sales are being led by Burnett Partners. The Ocean Club, Four Seasons Residences, Bahamas begin at $6.5 million. The Residences' sales gallery is located in the Hartford Gallery at The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort. To arrange a personal presentation, contact [email protected]. For more information, visit www. TheOceanClubResidences.com or call 242-603-8750.
Edition & Year | News Celebrated actress and two time Emmy Award nominee Sydney Sweeney has joined Laneige as their first-ever global brand ambassador. Sweeney, who has been signed to Laneige US as their brand ambassador for the past 18 months and risen to super-stardom with remarkable leads in projects including Euphoria, White Lotus, and more recently Anyone But You, will star in a series of new skincare campaigns for the internationally acclaimed K-beauty brand. Their global partnership is now extended to cover around 40 countries all over the world. The impact that Sweeney's partnership had on Laneige US during their partnership? "A great example of the magnitude of our partnership with Sydney would be our social follower growth. Since the first announcement of Sydney as our US ambassador in spring 2022, we experienced an immediate 227% surge in Tiktok followers and 53% growth in Instagram followers. One behind the scenes video of Sydney on a Laneige production set went viral three times over, accumulating 72 million views across TikTok, Instagram and Youtube. That's the type LANEIGE EXPANDS PARTNERSHIP WITH ACTRESS SYDNEY SWEENEY AS GLOBAL AMBASSADOR of influence and reach Sydney has," says Julien Bouzitat, Brand General Manager for Laneige US. "Over the past few years, we have seen Sydney transform into a global superstar at the forefront of the cultural zeitgeist. Since the beginning of our partnership, Sydney and Laneige experienced a similar global acceleration as she cemented her status as one of the most promising actresses in Hollywood, while Laneige continued to break records for its viral Lip Sleeping Mask and barrier-boosting skincare, sweeping every award imaginable from Allure's Best of Beauty to Amazon's Customer Obsession Award. We were also crowned the #1 Lip Treatment Brand In The US* which is an astounding achievement for the brand. It's been an incredibly rewarding trajectory for both parties and we are looking forward to reaching an even broader audience worldwide with Sydney as our new global brand ambassador." Both Sweeney and Laneige have an exciting year ahead with the release of her much-anticipated projects such as Marvel Studio's Madame Web, and Laneige launching brand new innovations in the sleep care and lip treatment categories through spring and summer, accompanied by a global campaign creative starring Sweeney. Expect to see Sweeney across the globe through a full funnel media activation launching from out-of-home advertisements, paid and organic social media content and personal appearances. Through the expanded partnership to all major markets, Laneige is looking to continue gaining more global mass awareness on their barrier-boosting skincare portfolio including Lip Sleeping Mask, Lip Glowy Balm, Water Bank Cream Moisturizer, Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer, Water Sleeping Mask, as well as the brand's exciting new innovations in 2024. "I couldn't be more excited to announce my extended partnership with Laneige as their first-ever global ambassador," says Sweeney. "It all started very organically after finding the absolute best skincare routine with Laneige products after years of trial and error. After creating so many fun memories on multiple campaigns together, I'm looking forward to our continued collaboration. There are some phenomenal innovations on the way for this spring that will make Laneige's expertise in sleep care shine through, and I'm thrilled to share this next generation of overnight masks with the rest of the world!"
6 | LUXlife Magazine Best Hospitality Industry Linen Manufacturer 2023 CASTELLO*
New Year 2024 | 7 CASTELLO®’s story begins with a fourteen year old William Campbell. Fresh into his teenage years, William entered into the ever-growing world of the textile industry, working for a Mr. Hugh Danford. At the time, Mr. Danford was a small textile jobber who both bought and sold fabrics by the pound. Working in such an environment, William was presented with a choice: to simply carry out his tasks day by day, or to learn everything he could about the ins and outs of the business and, subsequently, the industry as a whole. As evidenced by the success of CASTELLO® in the present day, we believe it’s quite clear which path William set himself on. And so, alongside Mr. Danford, William helped the business evolve into a small fabricating facility in Montreal, Canada. Before Mr. Danford’s passing, the budding company saw itself flourishing further each and every day; eventually primed to become something even greater when it was placed in the hands of Margaret Campell Danford, Hugh Danford’s wife and William Campbell’s sister, following Mr. Danford’s death. Now under the Campbell name, the business continued to thrive under the watch of both siblings. However, William’s time with the company was cut short when he had to leave to serve his country in World War II. Once the war was finally over, William was able to return to his passion – the business that he and his sister had tirelessly worked to cultivate over the years. In order to do so, however, William needed to make yet another decision; he had to leave his secure employment of 25 years with the T Eaton Co. to join the family business full time. Though his wife, Mary, strongly advised against this course of action, William took the plunge and rejoined his sister’s side within the business. Under his leadership, what was once a small fabric converter bloomed into a major cut and sew facility – one that manufactured items for some of the world’s most prestigious corporations. Soon, companies such as Seagram’s, Chanel, Avon, and the Exxon Corporation became a part of the business’s regular clientele. This feat, of course, was a staggering one, and truly kickstarted what was to come. As expressed by Richard Campbell, William’s son and CASTELLO®’s current CEO – “William was a visionary and a pioneer in the textile industry, and he always strived to deliver the best quality and service to his customers. He also cared deeply for his employees and his community, and he was involved in many charitable and social causes. He passed away on January 24, 2022, at the age of 102. He is sadly missed, but never forgotten by his family and his customers. William was the founder and inspiration for CASTELLO®.” Though William’s chapter eventually came to Linen. One of the world’s top textile picks for luxury bed, bath, and table coverings. A material so versatile, it’s become synonymous with high class lodgings and boutique home life alike. However, to expand upon the potential that linen holds, one must approach the creation process with an appreciation for the finer things in life. Imbued with this very quality, CASTELLO® has become the definitive provider and manufacturer of linen. Founded in 1935, CASTELLO®’s history spans almost four generations, each associated with the production, and supply, of high-quality linen for some of the most reputable hotels and establishments. Below, we venture into the past - back to 1935 – to chronicle the origin, growth, and staggering success of CASTELLO® 1935.
8 | LUXlife Magazine an end, the one that Richard began was already shaping up to capture, and expand upon, the legacy his father had left behind. As someone who was raised by an entrepreneur and a work-driven woman, Richard Campbell was bestowed with the means to succeed from the moment he was born. However, it first manifested at only twelve years of age, when he started doing piece work for the Montreal factory – a bustling hotspot of industrial packaging, uniform, and linen production. It wasn’t until later that he joined the factory full time, placing him in a similar position to his father before him. Like William, Richard took this opportunity and began to dedicate himself to deepening his knowledge of the textile industry. This ultimately resulted in Richard accumulating invaluable experience in production, quality control, and customer service – advantages that he would carry with him into the future he envisioned for the business. Whilst learning the company inside out, Richard came to spot hidden potential within its inner workings. This potential took the form of the business’s hospitality section. Whilst small, it held promise in abundance, and Richard was determined to explore every possibility available to him. So, he turned to his father, and convinced him to grant him the go ahead to pursue this very specific and niche market. And he was going to make it a successful venture. During his undertaking, Richard tirelessly strived to create connections with some of the most prestigious hotels and airlines in the world, hoping that they would recognise the brilliance behind the business. Well, though it may have been a somewhat risky venture, it became ever clearer that the Campbell family had a knack for finding reward in their ambition time and time again. Where William had made the difficult decision to leave his well established job to join the family business, Richard undertook a journey that could have withheld further expansion. In both instances, however, their determination saw their plans come to fruition – Richard successfully extended the company’s product range to include high-quality table linens, napkins, placemats, and runners, the likes of which eventually began cropping up across its major clientele’s establishments. From Air Canada to Hilton Hotels, Westin Resorts, and Four Seasons Hotels, the business’s products finally had a permanent presence within the lives of refined travellers across the globe. However, Richard’s exciting endeavour didn’t end there. On the contrary, during his escapade for excellence, Richard opted to further explore the global market for the finest fabrics and designs. That was when he came into contact with a small factory, settled in Italy, that enthusiastically shared the same passion for quality and craftsmanship that Richard held. Partnered with the fact that the factory had a similar family history – it was also founded in 1935 – Richard simply couldn’t say no when the opportunity for collaboration appeared. This partnership would see a new brand of luxury linens entering onto the market, catering to the most discerning customers. In turn, CASTELLO® Group was born. Consisting of various companies, each dedicated to the manufacturing of high-end bed, bath, and table linens, in addition to accessory products that all fell under the CASTELLO® name, this group enabled a far greater expansion than the collective had ever experienced. Of course, CASTELLO® Group is owned and operated by the Campbell family, whose watchful eye still, to this day, oversees all aspects of production. From logistics and distribution to sales and marketing, the CASTELLO® line has grown exponentially as a direct result of this ambitious coalition, allowing it to supply a wide variety of products. With a quality-centric catalogue simply brimming with sheets, duvets, towels, robes, and the like, CASTELLO® rapidly became synonymous with the peak of luxury linen. Having uplifted the company to all new heights, Richard could finally start focusing on introducing the inner workings of such a staggeringly successful collective to the next generation. It’s at this time that his son, Taylor Campbell, was appointed COO of CASTELLO® Group. Entering the company in the new millennium as its vice president, Taylor inherited his
New Year 2024 | 9 father’s vision and passion for the high-end luxury market, and quickly directed his focus towards niche segments of the industry. It’s thanks to him that some of the finest customers within the sector now rely on CASTELLO® for products – ones such as Holland America’s Seaborne Cruise Line, MGM Resorts International, Aman Resorts, Fairmont Hotels, Four Seasons Hotels, and even Ritz Carlton Hotels. Additionally, Taylor is responsible for the exceptional growth of CASTELLO® Group’s worldwide sales team. Now, the company has account managers stationed in almost every corner of the globe, including the United States, Canada, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Russia. Not only did he expand the sales team, however, but Taylor also successfully built upon the collective’s pre-existing warehouse and distribution points. The goal was to ensure the accessibly of CASTELLO® on a global scale, and with the business’s distribution presence now soundly settled on both the east and west coast of the United States, and within Canada, Europe, and Asia, it’s abundantly clear that this ambition has been fully realised. Quality and service come hand in hand for CASTELLO®, and every generation has played a part in ensuring that this sentiment remains the beating heart of the company. CASTELLO® Group has, over its impressive tenure, earned itself immense amounts of international renown. However, its crowning achievements manifest through a change that occurred as recently as 2023. This change came in two forms. Firstly, the company gained an exclusive sales broker who is set to promote the CASTELLO® Hotel and CASTELLO® Home brands, allowing it to diversify its product portfolio in ways it hasn’t managed to before. In turn, it’ll be able to reach new markets and customers, all while focusing on its private label industry. The second change, however, is one of the most monumental – it was recently awarded the contract to supply all of the leading hotels in the world with bed, bath, and table linens. Truly, CASTELLO® has risen from being a humble business to becoming a prominent leader in the hospitality linen industry. Of course, no successful collective is complete without one of its most integral players: a Director of Sales and Marketing. Within CASTELLO®, this title belongs to Candice Murphy, a highly intelligent woman who has displayed an unapologetic determination and eagerness to learn throughout her years working for the company. Taylor saw immense potential in her and her immense knowledge of the linen industry, and therefore took her on as his Executive Assistant. However, from the very beginning, he knew that she would quickly exceed this role, and eagerly promoted her when the time was right. Candice is a vital member of the CASTELLO® team, and her track record of speedy promotions stands as a testament to how truly invaluable she is to the collective. As the future dawns on the horizon, CASTELLO® will soon be welcoming the fourth generation into its ranks. Anthony and Annabelle Campbell, Taylor’s ten year old son and six year old daughter, are fortunate enough to be blessed with the groundwork that their grandfather Richard laid all those years ago. As ‘Pending Co-CEOs’, they represent the future of the business, should they choose to take up the mantle and lead CASTELLO® into another era of excellence. Because, at its heart, CASTELLO® is a company that has flourished as a direct result of its family-centric composition. The Campbell family clearly cherishes the collective that was created all the way back in 1935, and we’re sure that it’ll continue to achieve new goals as it’s passed down through the generations to come. Contact: Richard Campbell Company: CASTELLO® 1935 Web Address: https://castello1935.com/
10 | LUXlife Magazine A Gem of a Retreat A former historic Irish Inn, Creacon Wellness Retreat (Creacon) is the brainchild of founder, Derek O’Neill and his late wife, Linda. The couple dreamed of creating a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation in the stunning Irish countryside, and they achieved just that. Creacon Wellness Retreat is our ‘Best Health & Wellness Retreat 2024 - County Wexford’. Our lives these days can be hectic. Rushing our way through every day, bouncing from one task to another becomes the daily norm. But sometimes we all need a break, and there are times when just getting away on holiday for a few days simply won’t cut it. Finding an oasis of calm and tranquillity to completely relax and unwind is the only thing that will do the trick. Nestled in the majestic green hills of County Wexford, Creacon Wellness Retreat specialises in yoga and meditation retreats that run all year-round. Its aim is to enable its guests and clients to get away from it all, to rebalance and revitalise spirit, mind, and body. Modern, media-free accommodation continues to promote rest and relaxation, complemented by additional amenities such as the fitness studio, art room, and library. Surrounded by extensive, tranquil gardens, Creacon is the perfect setting to help you escape the stresses and strains of daily life. Listen to the sounds of the birds in the trees and let go of everything that no longer serves you. Of course, food plays an essential part in wellbeing too. Creacon’s philosophy of providing delicious, nutritious food is central to its ‘Soulful Food’ residential menu. Overseen by head chef, Dean Kennedy, Creacon’s Restaurant/Café is popular with both visitors and locals. The dishes are designed and prepared to nurture and promote health from the inside out. Favouring seasonal ingredients, the Chefs incorporate some Eastern traditional nutritional values. On most retreats at Creacon, you will have your accommodation, meals, and classes included for the full retreat experience. Creacon also offers a whole range of holistic treatments including Bowen therapy, acupuncture, reflexology, cleansing facials, and a range of relaxing and detoxifying massages to restore your body. Designed as a means to completely reset, consultations in areas such as psychotherapy, neuro-linguistic programming (NLP), and hypnotherapy can also be incorporated into your retreat. As you might imagine, Creacon welcomes many solo guests, but it’s also the perfect getaway to spend some quality time with a friend, family member, or partner. With a range of packages to choose from, starting from an overnight stay to a full six-day wellness retreat, there really is something for everyone. In addition to its year-round programme, Creacon Wellness Retreat also welcomes speakers and practitioners from around the globe to host talks and workshops at the retreat. Details of specialised retreats built around these events are available via the company website. Contact Details Contact: Team Creacon +353 51 447 666 Company: Creacon Wellness Retreat Web Address: www.creaconwellnessretreat.com/
New Year 2024 | 11 Those seeking to capture the living power of nature in skincare products need look no further than AEOS, a company that consistently seeks out only the purest natural produce, combining this with next-generation technical expertise in order to unlock the most beautiful skin its users have ever had. Best Organic & Biodynamic Skincare Range 2024 – UK awardee AEOS was born in 2010, on the back of Mike Booth’s continued efforts to carry on the vision of his collaborator, Vicky Wall, with the two working together until her unfortunate passing in 1991. Boasting a line of products free from synthetics and chemicals, nature alone can provide results that look as though the skin has been lit from within, smooth, soft, and nourished to the touch. We speak with Mike, who tells us more about these groundbreaking products. Biodynamic Skincare Sure to Transform planet healthy and fertile, while simultaneously highlighting that luxury products do not have to cost the earth. The company is comprised of four key elements, with its name serving as an acronym for “Active Energised Organic Skincare”. Active stands for the company’s desire to feed the skin through products that are ‘alive’, this being the plant extracts, essential oils, enzymes, and vitamins used. Energised represents the unique and sophisticated process used by the team to fully enhance every element used in its products. Organic serves as a promise, with AEOS growing as many ingredients as possible itself, maintaining certainty that they are cultivated in line with its principles. Skincare of course represents the finished product, with results elevating customers skin to the next level. Mike and the team have been delighted to witness a significant increase in the amount of natural and organic products gracing the luxury sector, where they were previously often dismissed as ‘hippie’ products. Solidifying its presence within the luxury market, the team’s products proudly carry NATRUE Certification, with this internationally recognised benchmark authenticating the company’s offerings, as well as doing a stellar job in its own right, educating consumers about the importance of standards. Looking ahead to the future of AEOS, the team are currently working on designing and implementing a face mask, with this product set to retain the high standards, natural ingredients, and fantastic results that the company is famed for. Moreover, the team’s never-ending mission is to reduce its footprint, and to this end, the team are constantly tending to the 15,000 trees that it planted on its farm several years ago. Mike explains, “we are infusing our love and care into the soil so that it may be healthy for generations to come.” Quintessentially, this multi-faceted dedication to quality, nature, and measurable results sets AEOS apart from others in the field, and make it more than worthy of this acclaim, celebrating it as offering the UK’s premier range of organic and biodynamic skincare products for 2024. Contact: Mike Booth Company: AEOS Web Address: https://aeos.net/ 500 acres of only the purest plants and herbs in existence line the company’s biodynamic, Lincolnshire-based Shire Farm, an area where the soil is nourished deeply and there is wildlife and nature aplenty. The team adopt a hands-on approach across every stage of the process, carefully tending the land, extracting the purest water, and harnessing entirely natural energies in the processes of creating its organic skincare products. These products have been hailed by beauty press around the world, having been featured in publications such as Vogue and Vanity Fair, cited as skincare solutions that refuse to compromise. Heading up this operation is a team of pioneering pharmacists, with these experts in the fields of alchemy and skincare possessing the necessary knowledge to provide customers with unrivalled results, proud of a method that entails a holistic approach encompassing soil, skin, and soul. All of the ingredients used in every one of AEOS’ products are vegan, and the company is committed to never testing on animals, instead blending its host of natural ingredients with pure water that is measurably enhanced by crystal energies, with these liquid gems and crystals boasting the claim of being prepared using ancient techniques over a 12-month period. For AEOS, luxury is more than just a keyword, rather, it is the embodiment of the best products that truly benefit the skin, with these processes taking place long before the ingredients are blended and bottled, this again due to the organic and home-grown origins of all of the products involved in the curation process. Beyond just the providing of pure, potent ingredients, the biodynamic farming methods used by the business are incredibly ethical and sustainable, helping to keep the
12 | LUXlife Magazine n 2009, Ben Davidson recognised that there was an ever-increasing outcry for estate and letting agents who truly valued the ins and outs of the Birmingham area. In response, he founded Davidson Estates – a collective that would go on to consistently provide awardwinning services to clients across the UK. Based in both Edgbaston and Birmingham City Centre, Davidson Estates boasts an in-depth understanding of the city that can only come from a specialist. Whether clients are seeking assistance with residential property sales, lettings, and management, or are hoping to be effectively guided through new build sales, investments, and furniture services, Davidson Estates is onhand to help. With a reputation forged around the high level of service and expertise that it has frequently delivered to clients over the years, Davidson Estates now stands as Birmingham’s most dependable agent. Clients can be seeking to rent, buy, or invest, and Davidson Estates’ dedicated team will be right behind them to ensure that their venture is as smooth as possible. It offers an immensely detailed understanding of the local market, allowing it to frequently deliver quality assistance and specialist advice at every turn. No matter how unique the request or requirement, Davidson Estates can be trusted to take care of it. Further emphasising the agency’s brilliance is its continuous recognition within the International Property Awards. Having found itself involved in this campaign for five years running, Davidson Estates has confidently identified that its approaches are working, and constantly enhances them to reach a new level of excellence. After all, excellence is one of its core values, and, combined with its commitment to integrity and client centricity, Davidson Estates has managed to resonate with clients from all sorts of backgrounds. Additionally, the collective has devoted itself to personalisation, leading to a supply of services that are specifically tailored to the client. In short, Davidson Estates prioritises professionalism. As such, it’s developed an incredibly transparent approach to real estate – something that is unfortunately becoming a rare occurrence in today’s property market. This agency, however, prides itself on its ability to lend a hand to every type of customer. Its clientele is beyond diverse, and even encompasses those heralding from other points of the globe. Birmingham, as mentioned previously, is synonymous with diversity, and Davidson Estates embraces this notion to its fullest. Whether it's facilitating seamless transactions for those navigating the international property market, or simply providing advice to the average homeowner, every aspect is imbued with excellence. We’re so very proud to feature Davidson Estates in this issue of LUXlife Magazine. Its dedication to its clients is unrelenting, and yet it somehow Birmingham’s Best in Estate and Letting Birmingham is a city simply brimming with culture – one that is renowned for being able to connect people from all over the world. As such, its property market has become exceedingly popular within the past decade alone, leaving a void in the estate and letting field that desperately needed to be filled. Determined to do so was Davidson Estates, now proud owner of the title of Best Lettings & Property Management Agency 2024 – Birmingham. With an intrinsic talent for navigating Birmingham’s property market, Davidson Estates has become the city’s definitive choice for estate and lettings services. manages to find the time to constantly discover new means to assist individuals from all over the world. As demands emerge, and the market fluctuates, Davidson Estates promises to remain ahead of the game for its clients. It’s this very attitude that has cemented it as a truly trustworthy collective – one that homeowners and investors can fully depend on for years to come. Contact: Ben Davidson Company: Davidson Estates Limited Web Address: https://www.davidsonestates.co.uk/ I
New Year 2024 | 13 The Art of Luxury Travel Exclusive France Tours is a bespoke luxury travel agency that delivers exclusive tours across France. With over 25 years operating in the high-end luxury tourism and events industry, the agency creates fully personalised experiences, private tours, and upscale events filled with authentic discoveries. Exclusive France Tours is also one of the leading luxury agencies offering intimate wine explorations across the country. Led by Marie Tesson, the company creates meaningful bespoke experiences that go beyond the ordinary to deliver clients a truly exceptional French holiday. Exclusive France Tours has received this year’s Best Luxury Tourism & Events Agency Award – France for its unparalleled service offering and high standards of care. With its innovative approach to the travel industry, Exclusive France Tours develops cultural tours designed to intrigue and provoke emotion. The agency has created a legacy of excellence with its bespoke adventures and journeys. Over the course of two decades, the company has become a connoisseur of travel, dedicated to creating immersive vacations that continue to surprise and delight its esteemed clients. Its exclusive locations are specifically chosen to ensure every traveller has an incredible, out-of-theordinary adventure. A network of passionate experts is also ready to breathe life into these locations to create irreplicable tours. At the heart of Exclusive France Tours are its private wine explorations. It was owner Marie Tesson’s love of the winemaking tradition that inspired her to offer these private and rare encounters. The team has cultivated a deep understanding of the wine industry and fostered connections across France with winemakers, sommeliers, and owners of acclaimed castles. These relationships enable Exclusive France Tours to offer access to wine estates usually closed to the public. Exclusive France Tours is committed to continuous evolution and adapting to meet clients’ individual needs. Marie Tesson and her specialist team are dedicated to perfecting their approach and consistently exceeding expectations. Exclusive France Tours is passionate about crafting memories for travellers that last a lifetime. The agency has developed strong partnerships across France with companies and individuals that share its high standards of quality. The team remains inspired by the variety of culture, heritage, and gastronomy that French destinations have to offer. France offers the agency endless possibilities and infinite combinations of thrilling experiences. By utilising the beauty of France and their strong creativity, the team can generate inspiration for even the most challenging requests. Exclusive France Tours has become renowned as a tailored designer for its outstanding discoveries, tours, and events. With its mastery of logistics, the company is capable of reacting efficiently to address any last-minute issues. All tours are elevated by reliable logistical procedures based on the agency’s quality standards. The company is passionate about creating well designed programmes and managing private stays and luxury events. These can be tailored to a specific theme, area, or multiple areas of France. One of the agency’s biggest assets has become its cross-regional tours, which consist of exclusive escapes to some of France’s most popular destinations. Exclusive France Tours provides travellers with a unique way to discover gems far away from the crowds. Most recently, the company has announced amazing private tours of Mont Saint Michel. After their three-week private tour, Jaime R. shared, “Marie Tesson listens and internalises what she’s heard. She crafts thought-out itineraries, isn’t afraid to suggest alternatives, and communicates earnestly with her clients. For our ‘Tour de France’, she has consistently gone beyond my expectations. I rate her baby, Exclusive France Tours, a 10 out of 10.” Moving forward, Exclusive France Tours will continue to make the most of its teams’ talents and leverage the innovations offered by AI. By utilising this new technology, the agency will be able to free up more time, increasing efficiency and client responsiveness. Exclusive France Tours is committed to offering exceptional travel experiences tailored to clients’ individual requirements. Specialising in luxury tours, high-end vacation packages, and upscale events, the company will continue to deliver authentic discoveries and unparalleled happenings that exceed travellers’ expectations. For its extraordinary tours and events, Exclusive France Tours has received our award for this year’s Best Luxury Tourism & Events Agency – France. Contact: Marie Tesson Company: Exclusive France Tours Web Address: www.exclusive-france-tours.com
14 | LUXlife Magazine Maryland’s Premier Med Spa Located in Baltimore, Vanity Skin Bar does more than just ensure that its clients are satisfied and confident with their appearances, its team constantly strive to provide fully tailored procedures, with excellence and safety being equally prioritised throughout the process. Cutting-Edge Luxury Medical Spa of the Year 2024 – Maryland recipient Vanity Skin Bar serves to offer a host of fantastic treatments, priding itself on the stunning results it garners clients that are sure to result in them returning time and again. Heading up this operation is Owner and Aesthetic Specialist Cara Heym, who we have the pleasure of talking to in order to find out more about Maryland’s leading medical spa facility. Founded in 2021 for the purposes of assembling a team of talented and highly experienced medical professionals that share a passion for medical aesthetics, cosmetic treatments, and furthering education in the field, Vanity Skin Bar strives to offer clients the very latest in cosmetic and non-surgical aesthetic services. Key areas comprising Vanity Skin Bar’s award-winning repertoire are inclusive of neurotoxins designed to promote advanced treatments in the field of facial and bodily enhancements, dermal fillers that are too applicable for face and body enhancement, biostimulators to sooth wrinkles and folds on the face, neck, chest, back of hands, and other such areas, microneedling, channelling and collagen induction therapy, chemical peels, medical grade skincare, and other customised treatment plans and consultations that are afforded to both new and existing customers alike. The overwhelming success that Vanity Skin Bar has been greeted with since its establishment approximately 3 years ago is likely rooted in its unwavering commitment to clients, with the team putting extra time and care into making sure that individuality is celebrated and goals and expectations effectively and actively manged and understood. As Cara explains, “[our] core values lie in assuring every client feels heard, comfortable and confident in entrusting VSB to achieve their aesthetic aspirations.” It is for this reason that the company’s waiting list often spans several months, reflecting the solid trust clients have in the service and satisfaction with the solutions they are provided. A diverse group of individuals spanning a multitude of backgrounds comprise the company’s clientele, and while the majority of these individuals reside in Baltimore, some travel in from neighbouring regions and even other states across the US. All who visit the spa are greeted with a customer experience that is unrivalled in the industry, with this exclusively appointment-based spa providing ample time for patrons to not feel rushed or like a mere statistic during their visit. For Cara, “clients gravitate towards us over competitors due to this unique encounter we provide, coupled with the remarkable aesthetic transformations our clients enthusiastically endorse.” Cara has always possessed a passion for the world of aesthetics, having fell in love with this art she refers to as “preventative maintenance” not long after beginning her career at a dermatological surgical centre more than 11 years ago. Bolstered by this background in the world of medicine and a love for aesthetics, Cara decided to go for her dream job and open her own medical spa. Returning to school and completing a B.S.N. at University of Maryland’s University College, Cara continues to work towards garnering the relevant qualifications to expand the offerings of the business and deliver clients the most cutting-edge aesthetic treatments. Looking ahead to the next few years of the business, the focus for the immediate future is expansion, with Cara and the team on the lookout for a breathtaking location where the personalised, patient-centric approach to treatment that distinguishes the company in this competitive field can continue to be upheld. Clients are constantly referring their family and friends to the team for appointments, with this highest of endorsements speaking true volumes about the quality and value that is intrinsic within the firm’s services, which has largely eliminated the need for traditional marketing methods. Cara explains to us, “We are deeply grateful for this unwavering support and the trust bestowed upon us by our clientele.” With exquisite services such as the ones on offer from Vanity Skin Bar, trust has been earned through the firm proving itself repeatedly, and a commitment to providing the latest treatments and staying abreast of all new developments in the sector combine to make the business a true beacon of excellence in in the medical spa scene, and we wish Cara Heym and the entire team the best of luck for sustained success in the future, eagerly awaiting what advances and new treatments they pioneer next. Contact: Cara Heym Company: Vanity Skin Bar Web Address: www.vanityskinbar.com
New Year 2024 | 15 One Eleven Candles is a spiritual wellness business dedicated to educating customers on the powers of crystals and positive intentions. The company specialises in hand-poured soy candles infused with beautiful crystals, oils, and uplifting energy. One Eleven Candles also offers essential oils, sage, incense, and aromatic wax melts. Before lighting a candle, owner Melissa Pickens recommends that customers set an intention and envision the positive impact the crystals and accompanying scent will bring to their lives. Each product serves a higher purpose and is lovingly crafted by Melissa. One Eleven Candles has been honoured with a Leader in Luxury Award for this year’s Best Crystal Soy Candle Company – USA. Promoting Spirituality with Dazzling Crystal Candles Once the wax is down to one quarter inch, the crystal can be retrieved from the candle. Crystals should be cleansed prior to use and the energy refocused with a customer’s individual intentions. To cleanse the crystal, Melissa recommends immersing it in running water, sea water, or salt water. They can also be cleared of energy using sage, dragon’s blood incense, or palo santo sticks. Crystals can be recharged when placed in the light of the sun or moon for several hours. During a full moon, the recharging process is particularly powerful. To set an intention, users should hold the crystal in their hands and state their intention aloud. For those unsure of an intention, Melissa suggests, ‘I dedicate this crystal to the highest good. May it be used in light and love.’ Customers should concentrate on the purpose they wish to give their crystal and be specific in their intention. If they wish to attract love, users should specify the type of love they are seeking. If the user is looking for healing, they should say precisely what they would like to heal. Once the intention is decided, the customer should say, ‘This crystal will be used for [name your intention].’ Crystals can be carried on their person, wrapped in a velvet or silk scarf, or placed somewhere they will be frequently viewed. It can be useful to hold the crystal or have skin contact daily to keep a customer’s intention and energy aligned with the crystal. One Eleven Candles is dedicated to producing quality hand-poured crystal soy candles that serve a higher purpose. Their beautiful designs and aromatic scents are truly unique in their blend of oils and crystals. Each candle is formulated to attract specific energies and is lovingly created by owner Melissa. It is One Eleven’s objective to educate customers on the power of crystals and encourage them to set positive intentions to help them manifest their personal goals and dreams. Under Melissa’s inspirational direction, the company will continue to promote spiritual wellness with its therapeutic and dazzling creations. One Eleven Candles has received our award for this year’s Best Crystal Soy Candle Company – USA. Contact: Melissa Pickens Company: One Eleven Candles Web Address: www.oneelevencandles.com Based in Pickerington, Ohio, One Eleven Candles is on a mission to provide customers with high quality soy candles that are unique in scent and style. Their distinctive blend of fragment oils and crystals are each designed to attract specific energies and filled with love, light, and positive intentions. Creative Melissa Pickens is committed to projecting her passion into the world. She has a deep affinity for spirituality and enjoys taking the time to strengthen her connection to the Divine, her ancestors, angels, guides, and higher consciousness. Melissa’s first candles were initially gifts for the women in her family. She quickly fell in love with the therapeutic nature of the candle making process. While meditating one day, she was struck by the idea to merge her love of crystals with her stunning candles. From this inspiration, One Eleven Candles was born. After several attempts, Melissa completed her creations, designed to manifest positivity and warm feelings for the user. The company’s name, One Eleven, stems from numerology with 111 representing spiritual awakening, enlightenment, and intuition. 111 is also an Angel Number, a digit that when found evokes a sense of wonder. Angel Numbers are believed to be messages sent from the spiritual universe that offer individuals direction and meaning when they need it most. 111 encourages individuals to be aware of their persistent thoughts and welcome fresh experiences into their lives. One Eleven aims to enlighten customers about the power of healing crystals and encourage them to set intentions that can deliver them happiness, positive energy, and balance.
16 | LUXlife Magazine property isn’t just a building – it never has been. No, what truly makes a property is the personality that’s injected into it. It becomes a representation of the owner’s very being. From ceiling to floor, homeowners tirelessly work to find a means to express themselves through their living space. As such, it’s unsurprising that most individuals seek the perfect canvas to begin creating their own special sort of art. Enter Bonte Filipidis, a Portugal and Ibiza-based property agency that truly understands how to pair individuals with their dream living location. This abundant passion for uniting clients with their ideal properties is the essence of Bonte Filipidis – a trait that manifests through its approach to each and every customer. To the tight knit team of property experts, establishing long-term relationships with clients is arguably the most important aspect of the process. Whether individuals are looking to invest in a property, or are seeking to relocate, Bonte Filipidis acts as a devoted partner throughout the journey. Providing a bespoke service is essential, but ensuring that clients retain a strong connection with Bonte Filipidis is the core of its being. By retaining these premium approaches, Bonte Filipidis has managed to uphold its status as a luxury collective. Revolving around the principles of transparency, trust, and communication, Bonte Filipidis promises a plethora of personal services. Regardless of the unique needs of each individual client, its agents are willing to go the extra mile to make them feel secure in their choices. It’s a supportive collective, both in terms of customers and its own team, which has allowed it to transcend the usual expectations of real estate agents. Now, it’s viewed as one of the most trusted choices within the luxury real estate market. Possessing a portfolio of properties that are simply brimming with elegance, Bonte Filipidis emphasises its luxury aspects at every turn. From grand mansions that oversee the brimming expanse of the ocean, to penthouses that tower above the skyline to provide panoramic views to its cherished owners, the options posed are simply endless. However, there is one factor that will always remain consistent – each property is utterly exquisite; a real testament to Bonte Filipidis’ definition of luxury. It’s in this vein that Bonte Filipidis truly distinguishes itself. Its unapologetic dedication to sourcing only the most beautiful builds is where it thrives, ultimately resulting in a premium property portfolio that anybody pursuing luxury can enjoy. Bonte Filipidis is a real estate agency that holds an authentic love for architecture, design, and aesthetics. As such, it knew exactly what type of properties it wished to present, and went the extra mile to secure a selection of serene abodes for its clients. Now, Bonte Filipidis is widely Boutique Properties Bound by Luxury Compelled to deliver a bespoke services to each client, no matter their budget or requirements, Bonte Filipidis is a premium real estate agency whose insight into the Portuguese, Ibizan, and French property market champions the competition. Having recently received the prestigious title of Best Boutique Property Investment & Relocation Firm 2024 – Portugal, Bonte Filipidis demonstrates a profound level of commitment to its craft – a commitment that, under the guidance of its powerhouse of a team, has only flourished since the collective’s inception. Below, we explore how. recognised as the definitive real estate agency for anybody looking to inject some luxury into their life, with its impeccable attitude towards customer service simply enhancing its popularity. We’re so excited to see what new properties Bonte Filipidis discovers as we venture into 2024, and we hope that it continues to thrive as the pinnacle of luxury. Contact: Alexandra Bonte & James Filipidis Company: Bonte Filipidis Web Address: https://bontefilipidis.com/ A
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