Lipstick Lifestyle

Give thanks to our Eastern European friends who brought us vodka, derived from the Slavic word for water, and the drink of choice in the eastern block. History isn’t clear on the original source country of vodka, but its popularity reigns throughout the vodka belt - Eastern Europe and Scandinavia (who are also the largest global consumers of vodka). (more…)

Located two hours west of Denver, Colorado, the Devil’s Thumb Ranch is casually elegant with its reclaimed wood beam construction and rustic décor. This environmentally friendly outpost now boasts the 12,000 square foot Ranch Creek Spa, which opened this past February.

The two storey building is located a short walk from the main lodge, and was constructed with reclaimed wood. The reception, retail area, men’s and women’s change rooms are on the main floor, sparingly decorated with western and Navajo textiles and antique pieces. The second floor houses a spacious yoga studio, offering classes every weekend, and eight treatment rooms, flooded with natural light and views of the 5,000 acres of Devil’s Thumb Ranch.

Massages, soaks, wraps, facials, and hand and foot treatments are preformed using all natural, raw botanical oils and herbs. Therapists are well versed in suggesting treatments to counter the effects of the dry environment and high altitude. Consider the Rocky Mountain Rain Therapy, which uses nine essential oils massaged along the spine to boost the immune system and puts focus on structural alignment. After indulging in a few treatments, hydrate with the fruit-infused water or an herbal tea. As an added bonus, head to the change room’s sauna, steam room or relaxing aromatherapy lounge to extend the feeling of Zen.

Devil’s Thumb Ranch features 52 rooms in the main lodge, 16 cabins along the ridge, two restaurants, library, mini movie theatre, swimming pool and hot tub, as well as extensive trails for horseback riding, hiking and cross-country skiing. A perfect getaway for big city luxury paired with a healthy dose of western hospitality.

Devil’s Thumb Ranch
www.devilsthumbranch.com

The drink of choice for celebrating the good life, Champagne is a prerequisite during TIFF. Created in 1700, Champagne was chosen by the French kings as the gold standard of luxury and power. In 1866, French entertainer George Leybourne was hired by Champagne-maker Moet to promote its brand. A triumph of marketing, Leybourne’s efforts have cemented Champagne as the drink of choice as well as its elite status and celebratory personality. Made from chardonnay, pinot noir or pinot meunier grapes, Champagne is generally light in colour and should be served chilled (7C-9C or 43F-48F) in a tall flute glass to prevent the bubbles from escaping too quickly. So, how to choose? Cristal? Krug? Dom Perignon? Taittinger? Perrier-Jouet? Veuve Cliquot? Moet & Chandon? Most girls will answer “yes, please” to any of these offerings, but for those with a more discerning palette, choose sec, demi-sec or doux for a sweeter bubble. Those who want less sugar should select brut, extra brut or brut naturale.

At this year’s TIFF parties, Moet & Chandon will be the drink of choice for A-listers Matt Damon, Renee Zellwegger, Ed Harris and Jeremy Irons. Meanwhile, celebs at the Luxury Lounge in Lobby will indulge in Perrier-Jouet and guests attending VIP events at Hazel Boutique will be sipping Veuve Cliquot.

www.champagne.com