Publisher's Letter: It's a beautiful life

I have always had a love for home design, expressing myself through my own eclectic surroundings and living vicariously through the incredible works created by top designers in our community. Our new Florida Home & Garden magazine, the second of four annual issues included with your Boca Life issue, is filled with eye candy and inspiration for creating your dream home. Take a tour through six incredible and unique homes in our area, and marvel at each masterpiece inside and out. Find exciting accessories and resources in every issue, and save it as your next home makeover go-to guide!

Boca Life was the proud media sponsor of the recent India Hicks Author Luncheon at the Polo Club. I was absolutely smitten with this outstanding woman whose presence alone is captivating, and the tales of her royal life told in humorous detail wowed the crowd. A boutique brimming with her best-selling books and exquisite line of lifestyle products (I just had to have the black leather clutch with her signature “good luck” beetle clasp) preceded her awe-inspiring photo presentation and monologue about her British upbringing. She gave incredible insight into her world of design, inspired by her late father, David Hicks. Everything was so fabulously elegant and just my taste: the fabric-covered walls of their palatial estates; the incredible gardens and statues; world famous artworks; the Wedgewood room to match the beautifully set tables of fine china; and a free-standing tub in the library bathroom lined with leather-bound books. It was such a treat to have a glimpse into the history and glamour that has inspired her career as a model, best-selling author, artist and designer.

While not all of us live in castles, we can have majestic and magical enclaves to call our own. I am reminded of that hilarious insurance company commercial about the “she shed” burning down. It makes me laugh every time, and I can certainly relate to the fondness one has for their prized personal space. Take some tips on designing your own sanctuary with our feature “Enclaves of Retreat” in this issue, but be sure to have a fire extinguisher nearby!

Whether lounging in your tub, hiding away in your own chic she shed, or just taking some me time on a laidback March afternoon, enjoy the read and all the beauty of the Boca Life!