Innholdsfortegnelse for November 2025 i Naples Illustrated

SHELLY STAYER CHAIRWOMAN, Naples Illustrated Advisory Board Johnsonville Foods, president/co-owner ASHLEY GERRY NCEF, trustee; CMON, board member VICKI BAKER UBS Private Wealth Management, executive team assistant CHAD JENSEN Method & Concept, creative director, managing partner SHAWN MCCONNELL NCH Healthcare, marketing and communications director BRENDA MELTON Celebrity Martini Glass Auction, founder ASHLEY SMITH Aurora Investment Managers LLC, partner and portfolio manager CLAUDINE LEGER-WETZEL Stock Development, vice president, sales and marketing DONNA MCGINNIS Naples Botanical Garden, president and CEO MICHAEL WYNN Sunshine Ace Hardware, president…

Who better to consult about holiday entertaining in Southwest Florida than a world-renowned designer and author who calls the tropical haven of Harbour Island home? India Hicks, who raised five children and who has hosted countless gatherings at her Bahamas residence, brings her signature style and sensibility to Southwest Florida at a private event held at Home and Salvage November 6. Hosted by the popular North Naples home and design boutique, the event will spotlight Hicks, who is a celebrated British style icon with deep royal connections. (She served as a bridesmaid in the wedding of Prince Charles and the late Princess Diana.) Hicks will share insights on the art of gracious, inspired entertaining with attendees. Naples Illustrated connected with Hicks to ask a few questions in advance of her…

The Naples Sailing & Yacht Club is getting into shipshape form for its more than 400 members. The club on Naples Bay closed its doors May 1 to undergo several exterior clubhouse renovations. The $10.5 million project includes a new roof and HVAC system. New waterlines, dock-electric work, landscaping, and parking areas are also part of the overhaul. The clubhouse is a different hue, too. The club’s Director of Membership & Marketing Brittany Basye says, “We went from that Naples yellow to a more contemporary, forward-thinking off-white with a soft-gray color.” Basye says the downstairs pool was filled, and the patio will be extended with rails, soft seating, and a new dining area. A temporary bar will also be installed in the downstairs area. The project is meant to maintain…

STYLE NOTES GET STUDDED: Dotted embellishments offer an edgy spin. GO OVERSIZE: Play with various print scales for a fresh take. STAY NEUTRAL: Stick with black and white for a classic look.…

Staying power? Check. Color payoff? Check. Make a statement with long-wearing matte makeup that goes the distance: Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray Matte locks in looks with a smoothing, blurring, waterproof finish that doesn’t budge for 16 hours ($38, charlottetilbury.com); Dolce & Gabbana Ever Icon Eye Palette in Rose Goddess, for sultry, smudge-proof eyes that go from day to night ($71, dolcegabbana.com); Deborah Koepper Luxury Matte Lipstick in Lilly, a “your lips but better” wash of color that lasts ($40, deborahkoepper.com); Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet Luminous Matte Lip Colour in limited-edition 58 Rouge Vie, a staple red that wears comfortably for hours ($50, chanel.com); Violette FR Plume Lip Feather Matte Lip Whip in Rose Fumé, a bold gelcream formula for chic and effortless pouts ($31, violettefr.com); Makeup by Mario…

When the Four Seasons debuted on Peninsula Papagayo in 2004, it shifted the trajectory of Costa Rican tourism, trailblazing barefoot luxury in the small Central American nation. More than 20 years later and following a multimillion-dollar refresh, the resort remains a pillar of the peninsula, one that excels across every category: a coveted beachfront setting, a rich roster of activities, a deepened commitment to wellness, and a culinary program that draws as much from local farms as from international traditions. Set across 45 acres at the tip of the peninsula and immersed in a semi-deciduous forest ecosystem, the resort commands one of the most privileged locations in Central America, flanking two sparkling beaches. Facing the bay, Playa Blanca is the center of family activity, while Playa Virador offers Pacific-fronting sands…

Last year, a woman in Florida hoped to attend her granddaughter’s wedding in Oregon but felt anxious after not flying for decades. Her family was sure she would miss the event, until GOMO Travel coordinated her trip, providing her with a nurse companion. “She arrived smiling, saw her granddaughter walk down the aisle, and even danced at the reception,” says Kerri Johnson, a registered nurse and founder/CEO of the business. Johnson, who lives parttime in Naples, started GOMO Travel in 2019 to make trips more accessible for people with challenges. “I began thinking about all the people I’d seen over the years trying to navigate travel alone, often struggling or choosing not to go at all,” Johnson explains. The idea solidified in 2017 when she first met her biological father,…

What better way to enjoy Aspen than at The Little Nell—the town’s only fivestar, five-diamond hotel—where every detail whispers of indulgence. Go from carving the slopes to sipping Champagne effortlessly, while enjoying exquisite accommodations, world-class cuisine and wine, and impeccable service. In a town known for opulence, this hotel shines for its blend of activities, elegance, and relaxed sophistication. (thelittlenell.com) 1 AN ELEVATED STAY The Little Nell—a ski-in/ski-out resort—delivers first-rate service and exceptional amenities, minus the pretension. Each of the 92 guest rooms and suites is individually designed, reflecting the hotel’s unique architecture. Expect rich textures, striking artwork, and handcrafted furnishings that echo the spirit of Aspen. Many accommodations include private balconies with sweeping views of the slopes or town, offering front-row seats to nature’s mountain majesty. From curated design…

Fall in Florida is here. November is a wonderful month in our region and accompanying it is one of my favorite editions of Naples Illustrated: our arts and culture issue. Naples takes pride in celebrating the arts, and it attracts an impressive lineup of acclaimed talent and creative happenings. Indeed, our town is blessed with vast artistic variety, especially for its size. From myriad galleries and fine art museums to theatrical outlets to notable art fairs and other conduits, there are many ways to experience, appreciate, and explore the arts in our area. One of the remarkable aspects of art is its ability to rouse emotions; it has an uncanny ability to move us deeply. Art often drives us to think metaphorically and metaphysically. It might leave us melancholy, even…

Fashionistas will soon have a new store to visit in downtown Naples. Another location of The Augusta Clothing Company is set to open at 601 Fifth Avenue South. Jerri Hoffmann is the brains behind the operation. “We will do an old-Florida look,” Jerri says. “I’m working with architects right now on the layout of the store; it’s going to be beautiful.” The boutique will feature high-quality clothing and accessories. “Our goal is to offer our clientele clothing that is wellconstructed and that they can actually build a wardrobe around,” Jerri explains. “We will also offer things that are fashion-forward and fun.” Jerri wants to appeal to professional newcomers as well. “It will be a place our young professional women here in Naples can come,” she says. She is eager to provide shoppers…

Where does the name FoundRae come from? The name is a composite of two words that represent the inspiration of the FoundRae collection. “Found” speaks to the idea of uncovering parts of ourselves through the jewels we wear, while “Rae” is a reference to my grandmother’s name, Ray, as in sunray, a ray of light, warmth. Together the name expresses jewelry as a tool of self-discovery that also connects us to something timeless and enduring. What is your brand ethos and design philosophy? At its heart, FoundRae is about providing the tools of self-discovery and self-expression. Each piece is designed not only as jewelry but as a modern heirloom—meant to be worn, lived in, layered, and collected over time. Our philosophy is grounded in symbolism, quality craftsmanship, and authenticity. We…

If you’ve ever stayed at The Peninsula Hong Kong, chances are you use it as a standard—fairly or unfairly—by which to measure other hotels. (The flawless service, the twin helipads, the fleet of Phantoms … I could go on.) While no property is quite the “Grande Dame of the Far East,” the other hotels in The Peninsula portfolio rival its hospitality and glamour while offering a unique sense of place. The Peninsula New York, for example, is a Manhattan icon whose language is rooted in the city’s history and culture, starting with the building it occupies. The elaborate Beaux Arts structure, patterned after The University Club of New York, began life in 1905 as The Gotham Hotel, an elegant if troubled enterprise that at one point housed the legendary disco…

SPICE IT UP The Local, a longtime Naples farm-to-table restaurant, offers bottles of its house-made pepper sauce, wryly dubbed The Local’s Really Effin Hot Sauce and, for more delicate palates, The Local’s Not Too Effin Hot Sauce. Chef/owner Jeff Mitchell ferments it when peppers are in season. Other gift picks include The Local’s coffee blend and T-shirts. (thelocalnaples.com) WARM REGARDS Coffee lovers always appreciate a steaming mug of java. For them, the single-origin specialty beans roasted by Grumpy Goat Coffee Company in Bonita Springs will be a surefire hit. The beans come from countries in South and Central America, Africa, and Indonesia. The Grumpy Goat folks package the coffee in 6-ounce or 1-pound bags, so it’s easy to include in a gift basket or treat yourself. The roastery hosts Sips…

Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a lively Mexican tradition celebrated November 1 and 2 that honors loved ones who have passed away. Rooted in centuries-old indigenous customs and blended with Spanish Catholic influences, it’s a time to commemorate the lives of those no longer with us. Families create colorful altars adorned with marigolds, candles, and favorite foods, welcoming spirits back for a visit. The holiday reminds us of the importance of remembrance, gratitude, and celebrating life’s enduring connections—values that naturally align with the spirit of Thanksgiving as well. This season, as we reflect on gratitude and the importance of gathering with loved ones, Poydras & Peters at the Loews hotel in New Orleans offers a cocktail that embodies the same sense of celebration. The Bayou…

When should you reach for an electrolyte drink versus water? Jenni Berman, a certified physician assistant and owner of Berman Health and Wellness in Naples, explains that electrolyte drinks help replace minerals like sodium, potassium, and magnesium, which are important for brain function, muscle contraction, and more. Electrolytes are especially important when you’re sweating outdoors or exercising, but she also notes they can be good for muscle recovery or people taking certain medications. Suggested electrolyte and water intake varies based on individual needs and health conditions, so it’s important to check with your doctor about consumption. In general, though, Berman recommends that most healthy people drink around 100 ounces of water daily. After drinking about 80 ounces of water, she advises adding one serving of electrolytes with 500 milligrams…

MEN IN CRAZY PANTS WHO: Pace Center for Girls, Collier at Immokalee WHAT: Crazy Pantz WHERE: The Players Club & Spa, Naples DETAILS: It was a night of wild fun as guests bid on the colorful pants of the distinguished men of Naples in support of the Pace Center for Girls. MEDIA SPONSOR: Naples Illustrated RUNNING OF THE ROSES WHO: Naples Therapeutic Riding Center WHAT: Kentucky Derby Party WHERE: Naples Therapeutic Riding Center campus DETAILS: Guests celebrated the greatest two minutes in sports in true Kentucky Derby style while raising money for the center’s therapeutic riding programs. TIME FOR TEA WHO: STARability board members and community philanthropists WHAT: Tea party fundraiser WHERE: Forever Fiore Tea Lounge, Naples DETAILS: Guests gathered for an elegant fundraiser to support STARability Foundation, raising more than…

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis gave the green light for more than $18 million in cultural and museum grants in this year’s budget. One recipient, according to the Florida Department of State, includes the Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center, which was granted approximately $97,000. The organization’s president and CEO, Erin Blankenship, says the funding will assist in more ways than one. “It will help us deliver our mission of teaching the lessons of the Holocaust, inspire action against hatred, and promote mutual respect,” she explains. The museum delivers educational resources to counties throughout Florida, some of which include pop-up exhibitions at schools. Blankenship says the state grants will continue to make these exhibitions—as well as field trips to the museum—possible. “Some teachers worry about an admission fee, but because of…

THE DARK SIDE For those who prefer gothic glamour to cottagecore, this one is for you. Slated to hit newsstands November 18, Felicia Feaster’s The Goth Garden: The Mystery, Beauty, and Lore of Dark Gardening (Adams Media, $20) is an illustrated encyclopedia that dives into the history and myths behind 50 dark plants. With this book by your side, you’ll be ready to craft your own spooky garden, full of Queen of the Night Tulips, Black Lace Elderberry, and Black Magic Petunias. (simonandschuster.com) PETAL TO THE METAL Whether you put the tips inside Garden to the Max: Joyful, Visionary, Maximalist Design (Timber Press, $40) to the test or just put the book on your coffee table, it’s bound to spur intrigue among the gardeners in your group. Writer Teresa Woodard…

ALL EYES Midnight Blue Silk Sleep eye mask ($79), Drowsy, us.drowsysleepco.com I’m currently dreaming of Drowsy’s luxe mask, which promises “total relaxation for the mind and eyes.” Other nighttime wonders include its 100-percent blackout design and myriad benefits for the skin such as enhanced luminosity. —Allison Wolfe Reckson, managing editor SHEET DREAMS Linen Water Original fine linen spray ($23), Le Blanc, linenwash.com Nothing soothes me to sleep like the feel and smell of freshly laundered sheets. Since I can’t wash my bedding every day, I often reach for this Linen Water spray for a quick refresh. Based in Florida, Le Blanc offers a curated collection of linen and laundry products in appealing scents. I am partial to the Original aroma, with notes of jasmine, hyacinth, apple, and kiwi. —Mary Murray,…

Interior architect and designer Annabel White often finds herself offering suggestions and solutions to interior design challenges—even when not on the clock. She tells of meeting a female executive (and mother of three children) in New York City, who had just renovated an apartment. She began detailing lifestyle impediments in her place to which White offered solutions, sparking a professional relationship. “I am known for creating spaces that are both visually compelling and thoughtfully tailored to the people who live in them,” says White. Based in New York City and London, White, founder and president of Annabel White Interiors is a globetrotting designer. She believes her travels (coupled with growing up in Europe and having lived in Asia) influence her designs. “Everything I design looks quite different; the element I…

For 15 years after graduating from the University of Maryland, where she was a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I swimmer, Regan Billingsley did not set foot in a pool. When she dove into the sport again, it was in open water, where there were no boundaries to how far she could go. She was hooked from the first plunge. Now, she says, “I try to swim one and a half to two miles or more every day. The cool water wakes you up. It spurs creativity.” Her ardor for wild swimming mirrors the devotion she has for her profession as an interior designer and creator of a curated line of bespoke linens based on heritage art. As a child growing up in Maryland, Billingsley lived in what she…

The eponymous owner of Mikkelsen’s Pastry Shop, Danish pastry chef Paw Mikkelsen, has been creating all manner of baked goods for restaurants and retail customers for a quarter-century and counting. What he, wife/business partner Elizabeth, and their employees provide by way of service and hospitality makes the business special. Paw began working in his father’s bakery in Denmark at age 11. At 15, he left home to complete a baking apprenticeship, earning a Master Baker designation. The Ritz-Carlton, Boston brought him to the United States, where he met Elizabeth. They married and Mikkelsen moved up to the position of pastry chef at the Ritz, followed by jobs at the Four Seasons Hotel Houston and on a Mississippi River casino boat. The couple moved to Naples and opened Mikkelsen’s Pastry Shop…

If you frequently notice bags under your eyes, there are a few things you can do to look more refreshed. “The first thing I ask about is routine,” notes Dr. Yanet Diaz-Martell, an internal medicine physician and founder of MD Health Spa in Naples. This includes questions about getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, and minimizing alcohol, she notes, but also those related to skin care. For daily skin care, Diaz-Martell recommends applying vitamin C, a hyaluronic-acid serum, and a moisturizer in the morning, finishing with a mineral-based sunscreen. In addition, she advises using retinol two to three times per week at night and exfoliating a few times per week as well, using medical-grade products. Longer term, Diaz-Martell suggests facials every month or two and treatments like Sculptra that stimulate collagen…

GOINGS ON & PERFORMANCES 1 Ada and the Engine, a fascinating and heartfelt look at Ada Lovelace, the woman who pioneered computer programming, Price Studio Theater, The Naples Players, to Nov. 9, tickets start at $55. (naplesplayers.org) Día de los Meurtos Celebration, a joyful celebration honoring the lives and legacies of our ancestors, The Baker Museum, Artis—Naples, free. (artisnaples.org) Fore-the-Kids Golf Tournament, annual golf tournament benefiting Boys & Girls Club of Collier County, $600. (bgccc.com/golf) Planting Seeds of Humanity, Charity for Change gala, Naples Grande Beach Resort, $300. (charityforchange.org) 2 Chris Funk, musical illusionist, Daniels Pavilion, Artis—Naples, $64. (artisnaples.org) David Sedaris, best-selling author and master of dry wit returns, Hayes Hall, Artis—Naples, tickets start at $65. (artisnaples.org) 4 Birding in the Garden, take a morning walk through the 90-acre preserve…