We love that Julie Gilbert’s Giant Love is a richly layered, scholarly yet deeply personal exploration of her great-aunt Edna Ferber’s life, her magnum opus Giant, and the complex journey of adapting it into one of Hollywood’s most iconic films. How could it not be? After all, to many including us, this is devoted to the greatest book and the greatest movie about Texas in all its mid-century glory. This book, a triumph in itself, blends intimate family anecdotes with cultural and cinematic history, producing a work that is as entertaining as it is enlightening.

The Legacy of Edna Ferber: A Trailblazer in Literature

It's a personal book for Gilbert, the great-niece of Ferber, who was already a literary luminary with a Pulitzer Prize to her name for So Big and was no stranger to societal critique at the time of the book’s debut on January 1, 1952. So much had already been written in the press and pop culture at the time about the rise of Texas: its oil, money, and, by then, plenty of millionaires to add to the centuries-long folklore. With Giant, Ferber stepped into new, contentious territory with the examination of Texas, its wealth, racial tensions, and the evolving role of women in the era’s patriarchal society.

Some call it the greatest show on earth. We couldn’t agree more. For collectors of all types, a cornucopia for gathering new items is almost here. It turns out that one of the most unique fundraisers in Austin is celebrating its 49th year, a true milestone for the city and the organization: The Annual Settlement Home for Children Charity Garage & Estate Sale which takes place happens Weds, October 30 – Sunday, November 3 at the Palmer Events Center at 900 Barton Springs Road.

Aptly named the largest charity sale in Texas, The Settlement Home Charity Garage & Estate Sale is a year-long effort that culminates into several days of shopping. It’s one of our favorite events in the state of the year, in fact. Organized and led by members of The Settlement Club, the Garage & Estate Sale boasts an impressive and diverse inventory of merchandise, all donated by the community. More than 25,000 shoppers will browse for treasures and bargain-priced deals in our 21 well-organized departments. We learned that the funds raised do a tremendous amount of goodness for such a worthwhile charity.

As the leaves turn golden and the air begins to get cooler soon, there’s no better time to cozy up with a great book—especially one that inspires creativity and a fresh perspective on style. This fall we have curated a list of must-read design books that offer more than just beautiful pictures. From the latest in interior design trends to timeless fashion inspirations and leaders, these tomes are your perfect companions for embracing the season’s beauty. Whether you’re looking to revamp your home or update your wardrobe, these selections will ignite your imagination and elevate your aesthetic. So, get ready to turn the pages and let the inspiration flow. Find these and more at https://capitaloneshopping.com/s/barnesandnoble.com/coupon.

HENRI BENDEL AND THE WORLDS HE FASHIONED

By Tim Allis

During its heyday, New York’s Henri Bendel was the most glamorous department store in the world. This gorgeous book provides a vivid window into New York’s social and cultural evolution—told through fashion—well into the 21st century. $34.95. By Louisiana University Press

This fall, the chic set, and the action turns once again to the Kips Bay Decorator Show House in Dallas. The big news? The fifth installment of this must-attend 2024 event happens at 2999 Turtle Creek Boulevard in the Turtle Creek neighborhood. The venue will be open to the public for three weeks beginning Friday, October 25, 2024, and is also the nation’s leading design event of the year, as well as the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club’s top fundraiser.

Once intended as the space to be Dallas’ first Mandarin Oriental hotel, the grand property sits between the historic Rosewood Mansion and the planned Four Seasons Hotel & Residences, featuring a 25,000 SF two-story office building, 2.3 acres of undeveloped land, and a 60,0000 SF below-grade parking garage. There will be plenty of room for high design at 2999 Turtle Creek since it will seamlessly blend modernity with the historic French-Renaissance style that gives the neighborhood its signature vibe.

We love that in 2020, the internationally recognized Kips Bay Decorator Show House announced its newest satellite show house in Dallas, Texas. We know it well from the New York scene and now that elevated sense of style is firmly planted in Dallas, a city well-known for its inimitable style. There will also be a VIP President's Dinner that will happen on October 23rd from 6:30 pm to 8 pm. A link to purchase tickets can be found HERE.

Expect Broadway Musicals, a Regional Premiere & A ZACH360 Immersive Family Favorite

By Lance Avery Morgan Photography courtesy of ZACH Theatre

We love that ZACH Theatre, Central Texas’ premier professional producing theatre, just announced its 2024-25 Season with five Mainstage and three Family Series productions along with Austin’s hottest holiday tradition, A Christmas Carol as a season add-on.

The 2024-25 Mainstage Season will kick off with Jersey Boys, the Grammy, Olivier, and four-time Tony Award winner, including Best Musical. This international musical phenomenon tells the story of the 1960s rock ’n ’ roll band, Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons through each group member’s eyes with dramatized stories covering the band’s climb to success with a high-energy evening that will have everyone singing the night away.

In Spring 2025, the Mainstage Season continues with the regional premiere of Bob & Jean: A Love Story, the stirring and romantic new play by Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award®-winning playwright Robert Schenkkan. Based on recently discovered correspondence between Schenkkan’s parents during WWII, Bob & Jean tells the remarkable story of a tumultuous courtship and complexities of the human heart. The central character, Bob, has a decades-long tie to Austin, including the start of KUT and KLRU so no surprise as a native Austinite, Schenkkan brings his newest work home.

We recently learned that Texas Performing Arts’ Broadway in Austin 2024-2025 season includes four Austin premieres and the return of audience favorites. The 2024-2025 Season includes the unparalleled artistry of one of the greatest entertainers of all time, MJ; the Tony Award®–winning hysterical corn-bred and corn-fed musical SHUCKED; the high-flying new adaptation of the musical sensation that has delighted audiences for over 70 years, PETER PAN; the ultimate whodunit CLUE; the sensational Broadway revival of the bittersweet comedy featuring one of the greatest musical scores of all time, FUNNY GIRL; and the Tony Award®–winning Best Musical MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL, where the revolutionary film comes to life on stage.

Broadway in Austin 6- or 7-show subscription packages are now on sale. “We can’t wait to bring this new season to Austin and share it with Broadway fans and theatre lovers of all ages,” said Texas Performing Arts’ Executive and Artistic Director Bob Bursey. “The season starts this fall with Tony Award-winning MJ and ends with the new blockbuster MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL. Together with the eagerly awaited return of HAMILTON, this year’s lineup offers something for everyone, with the hottest new shows direct from New York, classics, and audience favorites.”

Plenty Of Fun Awaits At The Recently Revitalized Destination

Once upon a time, in the vibrant heart of Dallas, there existed a haven of community spirit and urban charm known as The Village Dallas. Nestled amidst a tapestry of greenery and modern architecture, this remarkable community is a testament to the idea that life should be a seamless blend of work, play, and living in harmony with the rhythm of a tight-knit neighborhood. Originally developed in 1968, The Village, historically, was the place to live from then and into the late 1970s-1990’s when the term “singles only” was commonplace. Fast forward to now...it’s the place to be again.

The talented marketing team with The Village invited us to experience what everyone is talking about. As the sun dipped below the Dallas skyline, casting a warm, orangey glow over the streets, we found ourselves drawn into The Village Dallas, curious to explore the whispers of community bliss that echoed through its winding and welcoming streets. We stayed at The Drey Hotel, a swankienda place to hang your hat – its cool, crisp, and modern design is a hallmark. While staying in a two-story loft that the hotel offers, it was a surprisingly quiet respite considering it’s in the middle of all the action. Quite grand, the loft always has a well-appointed coziness to it. If you’re traveling with pets, they can stay at Barkin’ Creek (an offshoot of the Austin origination), which offers a dog kitchen of gourmet food and a “Spaw” for pooch treatments. Ah, the good life for the lucky canines, too.

We all know that Austin, known for its style, has often been overlooked when it comes to its design. Plenty of internationally known architects are based here, yet too few high-level design resources were utilized before the 2000s. Enter a new showroom that is uniquely Austin and Central Texas in scope. It’s an inspiring venue where designers can feel at home, seek inspiration, and find everything they need in one place. Meet Objets.

Objets, established in 2001, has moved into a new 7,000 square feet space in a former 1950s warehouse at 6513 Burnet Lane, and its owner, Sandy Sieracki, welcomes professional designers, architects, and building project specifiers. As we all know, Burnet Road has become a design and furniture hub destination in the past few years, so Objets being located in the thick of it is no surprise.

When asked about the changes in the Austin design scene Sandy Aireacki founded Objets in 2001, she’s quick to note, “This is a tough question because it's a big time frame. I've definitely seen a lot of growth and sophistication. We've got a look here in Austin that’s organic, casual and relaxed as well as "edgy"... when I first started, we had to go to Dallas for all of our design needs and now I am thrilled that we don’t have to leave town.

For those who have attended the wildly successful Austin City Limits Music Festival knows that the main attraction is the American Express Experience. So, just how does it work?

New this year, American Express is launching a new complimentary premium lounge for Platinum Card Members and Centurion Members plus their guest. The lounge, located to the right of the Amex Stage, allows card members and their guests to escape the crowds and enjoy drinks and light bites. The space is walk-in only with your card required for entry, and space is limited. Platinum Card Members may bring one guest and Centurion Members may bring up to three.

All attendees can shop the Depop pop-up featuring vintage and pre-loved accessories, located on the 1st floor of the Amex Experience.

The POAP (Proof of Attendance Protocol) returns. All guests can commemorate their ACL Fest by claiming a free digital collectible at the Amex Experience and unlock an exclusive offer.

On the second floor Card Members can take a break, enjoy elevated Amex Stage views and purchase a drink at the bar. Each Card Member (just show your Card or tap your Amex-linked wristband for entry) can bring up to two friends.

[Photo of Market Hill by Alex Montoya]

A recent jaunt to Round Top proved to be an unforgettable experience that surpassed all expectations. Nestled in the heart of Texas, equidistant between Austin and Houston, south of Giddings, this quaint town is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, according to our Lance Avery Morgan.

Surely you know Round Top for its antiques and design shows that happen three times a year. With over 4,000 vendors, it is the largest antiques show in the country that is a must-visit. In fact, it’s awe-inspiring and attracts visitors from across the country. You can spend hours upon hours into days browsing through the charming antique shops and uncovering vintage treasures. While in town, visit the store, Round Top Ranch Antiques. It’s a huge multi-building that is full of European antiques. They have a workshop onsite which is unique, to customize purchases. The owners are always on-site and it is the only Round Top business that is open six days a week to serve the town’s many year-round visitors.

When was the last time you were on Savile Row in London? Congratulations, you can now have the same experience here in Texas. Dallas, to be exact. Getting a custom suit made by Hive & Colony Clothiers is an experience that goes beyond the ordinary and delves deeply into the realms of craftsmanship, luxury, and personalized style. Here’s what it's like to embark on this sartorial journey – and you will want to do it again and again like Rob Giardinelli and me, Lance Avery Morgan, soon thought as we both embarked on this creative process of having new tuxedos made.

First, the consultation.

The journey begins with a scheduled appointment at the Hive & Colony showroom, an elegant space that exudes timeless sophistication in Dallas’ NorthPark Center. The occasion for the new tuxedos was for the annual DIFFA Dallas gala where every iteration of black tie is seen in full regalia. If anyone has declared the Peacock Revolution over, then this event defies it. So, to match, and even, surpass the colorful expectations of attending DIFFA, Hive & Colony is the only place to go. As you step through the door, you are greeted by a knowledgeable and impeccably dressed customer service expert, who will be your guide throughout the process.

Looking for the ultimate cowboy dining experience? Saddle up to the chuckwagon for a premium experience with Perini Ranch Steakhouse and help them celebrate 40 years of success of only-in-Texas cuisine.

Established in 1983, celebrating 40 years of success, and known for its authentic “cowboy cuisine,” the world-famous Perini Ranch Steakhouse began as a chuck wagon catering company founded by Tom Perini, who is still at the helm of the brand today. Located in the small West Texas town of Buffalo Gap, the destination restaurant sits on the ranch that has been in the Perini family since 1952.

We love that over the years, Perini Ranch has gained a worldwide following for its celebrated, “real Texas food” and authentic dining experience, complete with abundant Texas hospitality for all the ranch’s local and traveled guests. As a result, Perini Ranch Steakhouse received the coveted James Beard America’s Classics Award in 2014. The Perini Ranch brand has grown solely by word of mouth and continues to develop additional concepts to complement the steakhouse.

Photo: Quinn Peeper and Michael Harold at home

In a special combined podcast of Success with Style and Fun In Fundraising, Lance Avery Morgan and Rob Giardinelli join in a conversation with Michael Harold and Quinn Peeper, the authors of the chic new book, Classical Shindig: Amateur Artistry from the Simple to the Sublime. This elevated, insider’s look at special occasion entertaining is chock full of ideas for your own hosting. You’ll come away with entertaining tips and tricks that even an amateur can execute.

We love the brand new, and very, very glamorous book, Classical Shindig: Amateur Artistry from the Simple to the Sublime. It should be on every coffee table or bookshelf once it debuts on August 29th, (available at ClassicalShindig.com, from Susan Schadt Press). It offers readers a captivating and unique exploration into the world of stylish entertaining that also includes music. Deftly authored by Michael Harold and Quinn Peeper, this book showcases the simple yet profound beauty of home entertaining, while shedding light on how to personalize your own hosting.

Austin’s Fairmont Hotel was the recent setting for a night of fun and fundraising for a very worthy cause. Over 350 sociables, doctors, and community leaders turned out for Manos de Cristo’s annual gala. The evening featured a series of touching tributes and emotional testimonials, seamlessly blended in with dancing and fun, while creating a night that those fortunate enough to be a part of will not soon forget.

The evening’s theme, Share The Love, was felt from the very second guests arrived in the foyer outside of the Fairmont ballroom for libations. Here, the cocktail-chic crowd cozied up to the bar to grab their favorite spirits and promptly went to mingle with other guests, all the while perusing an impressive lot of silent auction items as well as the opportunity to take photos at the festive photo booth to commemorate the evening.

Sure, we all know Durango Boots. In fact, they are a much loved classic brand is more popular than ever when it comes to quality, approachable boots. When Durango Boots Marketing Manager Erin DeLong shared more of the Durango story and offerings recently, we were intrigued.

If you don’t have a pair of Durango boots yet, let some of our ladies' favorites seen here inspire you.

Hotel Zaza Memorial City offers something more than other luxe hotels. Much, much more.

In fact, there’s something for just about anyone. The venue offers a haven of oversized, well-appointed accommodations, thought-provoking art, and over 11,000 square feet of extraordinary meeting and event space. How cool is that?

Bringing the style and service of a luxury resort to Houston and elevating the experience of business travel as well as weekend getaways and staycations, this uniquely chic boutique hotel boasts a collection of 159 guestrooms, including concept suites and The Magnificent Seven Suites accompanied by exceptional dining, signature spa treatments and a poolside oasis. Big Easy, Havana, American Beauty, Black Gold, Beach House, Breathless, French Connection, Passage To India, Godfather, and more, are just a few of the suite themes.

Our two favorite spots to enjoy first upon arrival: the pool and The Tipping Point restaurant. First, the pool: It’s all happening at the venue’s glamorous, resort-style Houston hotel pool, also known as The Beach Club. Featuring plush benches and chic chaise lounges, this stylish urban oasis is the perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun. It's also a great gathering spot because the outdoor bar serves refreshing signature cocktails, while poolside al fresco dining is available at Tipping Point Restaurant and Terrace. It offers an al fresco dining and a lounge experience that rivals the best restaurants in Houston. Offering a view overlooking the Beach Club, it’s a true destination within itself and a proud addition to the tradition of Memorial City Houston restaurants. Foodies are welcome. You'll want to try everything.

Dallas has become more stylish than ever before. We love that Park Cities resident Shannon Jud recently opened Kat + Noelle, a family owned and operated boutique located in The Pavilion on Lovers Lane. The venue offers a unique, curated collection of resort-inspired women’s apparel and accessories, fragrances, home décor, and gifts. The boutique, named after Jud’s two daughters, Hannah Katherine and Harper Noelle, who frequent the shop if they aren’t found working there.

In fact, Kat + Noelle has been a lifelong dream for Jud. After leaving corporate America five years ago with little to no retail experience but driven by her love of fashion, shopping, and her own personal, unique style, she started her journey in the retail industry. In 2018, Shannon and her husband, Tom Jud, bought the popular upscale resale shop, Clothes Circuit, located in Preston Center. Together, they updated the more than 35-year-old shop and overhauled the consignment area. This endeavor allowed Shannon to pair her love of fashion and retail with her business acumen from her corporate days. Yearning for her next retail adventure, Shannon Jud took the leap into retail once again with Kat + Noelle, which earlier this year.

We can’t wait for the fact that his week the Andy Roddick Foundation, the leading Central Texas organization enriching the lives of children through high quality after school and summer learning programs, investments in community innovators and awareness-building activities, announced comedian Bobby Bones will host and multi-platinum award-winning country music artist Jordan Davis will perform at their annual Andy Roddick Foundation Gala on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, at ACL Live.

Radio and TV personality Bobby Bones will serve as host and his comedy duo, The Raging Idiots (alongside Eddie Garcia), will perform at the 2023 Andy Roddick Foundation Gala with Jordan Davis, who released his second full-length album, Bluebird Days, in February.

“We are excited to be back at The Moody Theater with Austin’s own Bobby Bones hosting a hilarious night to raise funds for this critical organization,” says Andy Roddick, founder and chairman of the Andy Roddick Foundation. “We are honored to be able to also share the music of Jordan Davis with our supporters and look forward to seeing you on November 15.”

The gala brings together approximately 2,000 supporters, friends, partners and concert-goers for an evening of celebration and music. The evening features a cocktail reception, program, an extensive live auction, an elegant dinner, and live concert at ACL Live, home of the famous Austin City Limits TV series. The annual event attracts the biggest names in music and entertainment and has raised over $11 million since 2012 to support the Foundation’s after school and summer learning and enrichment programs. Proceeds of the evening’s events will benefit the Foundation’s after school and summer camps.

Yep, we realize shopping for dear old dad on Father’s Day can be stressful, especially when he might seem to have all he needs. One thing he can always use is something from Hive & Colony, which has set out to make buying one of the hardest gifts of the year more simple and sophisticated than ever before. After all, doesn’t the father (or father figure) in your life deserve something more personal and experiential than the limited selection of suggested gifts that come around every June?

You’re in luck. Hive & Colony has just the solution. The luxe clothier’s fashion-forward range of textiles and materials, customer service-based experience, and expert personal stylists can create a friction-free, custom experience for the man in your life, so he is guaranteed to walk out the door with an authentic and unique look that suits him best. The best part, to take all the gift-giving guesswork out of the equation, is that for a limited time, the bespoke menswear brand is offering an exclusive promotion on gift cards­–every dad’s favorite thing...from suiting to a wide range of accessories.

From June 4 through 18, customers will receive an added dollar amount on the purchase of any gift card:

CONTEMPORARY COOL

We love that Mexico is steeped in tradition and that there is so much to love about it. From the country’s sunny disposition to its serene vibe, there are few places like it on earth. Most of us have already been there many times...we’ve done the spring breaks, the family getaways, and perhaps, the bachelor/bachelorette event destinations. Now, for something newer and different, we recommend the Andaz Mayakoba in the Riviera Maya, a Hyatt concept, as your very next retreat to get away from it all. Once you’re on the ocean with the breeze blowing through your hair you’ll know what true relaxation really is.

Once you hop on a quick flight, from two to three hours from most Texas cities, into Cancun, you’ll soon be on your way an hour’s drive to the serene Andaz, whisked away by a private shuttle arranged by the property. The natural beauty that surrounds the region is also home to an idyllic range of flora and fauna that set the tone for a relaxing adventure. Upon arriving at the grand entrance, the friendly team is there to greet you in front of the large, cenote-inspired water feature. Once given a stone to toss into the aqua element, you’re encouraged to make a wish, or intention, for the stay. I wished for serenity for the next few days, and it came true.