Classic & Curious

Design episodes are meant to introduce you to a unique design element, but often, the may reveal something even more inspiring along the way.

In this episode, you’ll meet two women whose journey is as much about creativity as it is about legacy. Anna Garcia and Mary Lovett Beck, the founders of Varnish Collection, are mothers and visionaries who are role modeling grit and grace—not only for their children, but for a generation of women in business.

Varnish Collection’s pieces offer a fresh perspective on traditional wicker furniture. Every piece is hand crafted by artisan partners to create one of a kind classic designs. From game tables to lighting and sofas to champagne stands, the Varnish Collection brings personality to the room that is unique and its own.

In this episode we discuss:

• The story behind Varnish Collection and its vision for reinventing wicker
• A look at the founders’ favorite pieces—and the craftsmanship behind them
• How their pieces are intended for storytelling, tradition, and bringing personality to a room.

Varnish Collection has been celebrated in Luxe Interiors + Design, Veranda, The Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles Designer Showhouse, and Kips Bay Showhouse in NYC. You’ll also find their collection in top design destinations like Mecox Gardens and Hive in Palm Beach. 

Join us as we explore how their love of family and thoughtful craftsmanship helped shape a brand designed for beautiful, meaningful, everyday moments.

Connect with Varnish Collection @varnish.collection and varnish collection.com
Connect with Anne @classicandcuriouslife

Welcome back to Classic & Curious — 

In this episode, we’re joined by Shannon Ables, founder of The Simply Luxurious Life, an internationally celebrated lifestyle blog that has been inspiring readers since 2009. Shannon reminds us that true contentment doesn’t come from excess—it comes from living with purpose.

In this episode Anne & Shannon discuss:

• Shannon’s journey in creating The Simply Luxurious Life
• What it really means to live simply and luxuriously
• Her popular podcast, The Simple Sophisticate
• Her exciting new online cooking classes launching this August: Intro to French Cooking: Everyday Deliciousness

Shannon is also the author of three books, including her latest, The Road to Le Papillon: Daily Meditations on True Contentment — a #1 New Release and #1 Bestseller in France Travel.

If you’re someone who values quality over quantity, sensibility over excess, and fulfillment over conformity, this episode is your invitation to slow down, savor more, and live your own version of the simply luxurious life.

🎧 Tune in and let Shannon’s wisdom, warmth, and thoughtful approach guide you toward a more meaningful and beautiful way of living.

Connect with Shannon @thesimplyluxuriouslife and thesimplyluxuriouslife.com
Listen to The Simple Sophisticate on your favorite listening platform
Connect with Anne @classicandcuriouslife

This week on the podcast: Chef Miguel Samoza

From cooking for the British Royal Family to creating unforgettable meals at Flora in Newport, RI, Miguel’s culinary journey is as rich and flavorful as the dishes he serves.

Originally from Madrid, Spain, Miguel has cooked alongside Michelin-starred legends Anton Mosimann and Michel Bras. He also served as Sir Richard Branson’s private chef. Now, he brings Mediterranean flair and New England ingredients together with heart, artistry, and a deep love for hospitality.

Together Anne & Miguel discuss:
 – His path from Spain to Newport
 – The vision behind Flora’s seasonal menu
 – His love for local sourcing and storytelling through food

Miguel’s story is a feast for the soul—and Flora is a place you’ll want to return to again and again.  Flora restaurant is located within the beautiful Gardiner House in Newport, Rhode Island. 

Tune in. Be inspired. Come with an appetite!

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You can find Flora @flora.newport @gardinerhousenpt
You can find Anne @styledbyark
Follow us @classicandcuriouslife

Every once in a while, there is a podcast episode that resonates far beyond its subject matter—one that stays with you. This is one of those episodes.

We are honored to welcome Karina Gentinetta, a remarkable artist based in both New York City and New Orleans. Her story is one of resilience, reinvention, and the quiet strength that emerges through adversity. It will move you, inspire you, and perhaps awaken something powerful within yourself.

Born in Argentina, Karina moved to New Orleans at the age of 12. She graduated at the top of her class from Tulane University and went on to become a partner at a prestigious law firm. But life took a dramatic turn after Hurricane Katrina destroyed her home. From that loss, Karina followed a deeper calling—returning to the creative soul within in her. Today, she brings that passion to life through her extraordinary art and furniture design.  

In this episode Anne & Karina 

• How art has been a constant presence in her life since childhood
• Her bold transition from a career in law to becoming an artist
• The environment and process behind her creative work
• A deeply personal journey she is facing with courage and vulnerability

Her collectors span the United States and beyond. In 2016, she partnered with RH Modern on a limited-edition series that quickly sold out.

Her work has been featured in numerous prestigious publications, including Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, Luxe Interiors + Design, The New York Times, and many more.

Meeting Karina feels like encountering one of her artworks—a rare fusion of beauty and purpose. She is a living juxtaposition of grace and courage, embodying the same brilliance found in every stroke of her creations.

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Connect with Karina Gentinetta on IG: @karina.gentinetta and karinagentinetta.com
Connect with Anne on IG: @styledbyark
Connect with Classic & Curious on IG:  @classicandcuriouslife

For those who delight in discovering boutique hotels worth coveting and returning to, this episode is a must-listen. We’re joined by hotelier Sylvia Wong, founder of the award-winning The Roundtree Hotel in Amagansett, NY.

A graduate of NYU Law School, Sylvia’s journey from corporate law to hospitality was both organic and inevitable.   

Sylvia’s discovery of The Roundtree’s serene location sparked a vision that would evolve into a beautiful reflection of quiet luxury. The property blends modern furnishings and commissioned artwork with natural materials and bespoke amenities—creating a space that feels like a sophisticated extension of home.

The Roundtree Hotel is rich in history. Tucked away in a charming hamlet in East Hampton, it features the oldest house in Amagansett, originally built by one of the first four families to settle the area in the 1600s. In fact, one of the two-bedroom cottages on the property is over 250 years old.

As a guest, you’ll enjoy a mix of experiences—from art museums and chic boutiques to wellness offerings and the vibrant Hamptons culinary scene. All of this is set within a gorgeous environment—whether you’re staying in a barn room, cottage, or the exclusive beach house, it’s no surprise the hotel has earned accolades like Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Award. 

In this episode Anne and Sylvia discuss:

• Sylvia’s career path and how she transitioned into hospitality
• The story behind discovering The Roundtree and its historic roots
• The attributes she chose for the hotel and the Meaningful moments uncovered through her journey
• Her new project in Las Vegas:  Ariva – official luxury apartments of the Las vegas Raiders and LA Aces

It is clear why The Roundtree is a favorite stay. This home away from home is a true reflection of who Sylvia is—elegant, authentic, and humble. That spirit is reflected in every detail, especially in the hotel’s unparalleled service, always seeking new ways to delight each guest.

Connect with The Roundtree @theroundtreeamagansett and Book your stay on theroundtreehotels.com

You can find Anne @styledbyark.com
Follow us @classicandcuriouslife

If you love bespoke brands, you will absolutely adore this episode, as we host Fin Fellowes, London-based artist, illustrator and founder of The Kensington Paperie.

For over ​a decade, Fin has been known for exquisite one-of-a-kind paper creations for special events, weddings, and luxury brands across the world. A notable example of this​ is the collaboration w​ith Cabana Magazine and partnership with founder and editor, Martina Mondadori. 

The Kensington Paperie is a ​nod to Fin’s personal love for wrapping a beautiful gift. ​She has created a ​stunning collection of wrapping paper inspired by the ​elegance of Italian marble and vivid florals ​reminiscent of the 18th-century English textile designer, Anna Maria Garthwaite. These thoughtfully designed papers are complemented with unique textures such as raw silk ribbon and Japanese washi tap​e resulting in a style that elevates gift-giving in an extraordinary and emotional way.

In this episode Anne & Fin discuss:

• Fin’s creative story
• The rich artistic family legacy, paying a special tribute to her Uncle Matty
• Why The Kensington Paperie was created
• ​The attributes that describe The Kensington Paperi​e 
• Exciting news on the upcoming introduction to home!

​The exceptional work of Fin Fellows and The Kensington Paperie has ​garnered recognition in publications such as Cabana Magazine, US Vogue, House & Garden, and the Wall Street Journal.

Fin has not only established a brand that beautifully embodies British style and design, but her distinctive touch has also positioned it in a covetable space. Her spirit and brilliant combination of creativity and purposeful vision suggest that The Kensington Paperie is on its way to becoming a cherished British heritage brand.

Connect with Fin Fellowes @finfellowes and The Kensington Paperie @thekensingtonpaperie and thekensingtonpaperie.com
Connect with Anne @styledbyark.com
Follow us @classicandcuriouslife 

Welcome to May! This is a wonderful month to honor mothers and the special women who have shaped our lives.

Following the positive response to the first Currently Loving episode, Anne and Abby are excited to return with their thoughts on celebrating Mother's Day!

Currently Loving is a seasonal feature within Classic & Curious, offering a blend of perspectives from our host and her daughter, both with unique tastes. Anne's extensive 20-year background in fashion and refined sensibility, paired with Abby's design style, promises to bring you delightful ideas.

In this episode, Anne and Abby share:

* Their top recommendations for gifts.

* Thoughtful, no-cost gift ideas.

* Suggestions for spending quality time together, the most valuable gift of all.

* Heartwarming mother-daughter 

Join us as we explore many wonderful ways to make someone feel special and appreciated.

Complete show notes can be found @styledbyark.com

Follow Anne @styeldbyark.com
Follow us @classicandcuriouspodcast

A tastemaker brings together elegance and joy, curating thoughtful details that make a space feel special.  Whether you’re seasoned tastemaker or aspiring one, this episode will be sure to complement your expertise.

We’re joined by Carolyn and Cynthia of Diane James Home, creators of gorgeous faux floral arrangements so realistic, they even fool the bees.

Their story began in 1997 when their mother, Diane, launched her first collection at Bergdorf Goodman. By 2008, the debut of their e-commerce platform made their signature florals accessible to designers and tastemakers around the world.  Their pieces have graced everything from chic city apartments and countryside estates to five-star hotels, Hollywood sets, and even presidential libraries.

Diane James Home has celebrated collaborations with noteworthy brands such as, Gray Malin, Aerin Lauder, Ashley Stark, Lee Jofa, and Serena & Lily. What makes their brand so distinct is that—like couture—each design is handmade with love.

And of course, there’s something inherently special about a family business. The love, attention to detail, and genuine joy Carolyn and Cynthia bring to their work shines through in every arrangement—and in this conversation. Their warmth is as comforting and fresh as the first days of spring.

In this episode :

• The Diane James Home brand story, from its early beginnings to today
• Their meticulous process for crafting lifelike floral arrangements
• How to care for and maintain your faux florals
• A few of our favorite designs—and the stories behind them

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Connect with Diane James Home via Instagram @dianejameshome and dianejameshome.com
Follow us @classicandcuriouslife
Follow Anne @styledbyark.

As we welcome the fresh energy of spring, it feels only right to celebrate the season with a conversation about gardens and the beauty they bring into our lives. And who better to join us than one of the most distinguished garden designers in the UK - Butter Wakefield.

Butter grew up on a small farm outside Baltimore, Maryland. After gaining experience at Christie’s in New York City, she relocated to London in 1988. There, she began her career at Colfax and Fowler as a design assistant, where she honed essential design principles such as color, scale, and pattern. In 1992, she followed her true calling: gardening - an art form embedded in her family’s legacy.

Today, she's recognized as one of House & Garden's Top 50 Garden Designers and has earned multiple accolades including the RHS, Gold medal and the People's Choice Award at the Chatsworth Flower Show for the Belmont Enchanted Garden. Her talent was also acknowledged at the Chelsea Flower Show, where she received Best Trade Stand Award for Gay's Burrville.

In this episode, Butter and Anne discuss:

• Butter’s journey into garden design
• Insights on designing small, traditional gardens
• Tips for seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor spaces
• Embracing maximalism in interior design

William Kent once said, "Garden as if you will live forever." The wisdom Butter shares today reminds us of the lasting beauty we can create when we design with intention and heart.
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Connect with Butter Wakefield on IG @butterwakefield and at butterwakefield.co.uk
You can also learn more about Small Garden Design from Butter Wakefield at Create Academy, UK's most beloved learning platforms.

Connect with Anne on IG: @styledbyark
Connect with Classic & Curious on IG:  @classicandcuriouslife

A fresh start isn’t just for the new year - it’s something you can embrace anytime. In this episode, we sit down with acclaimed interior designer Elizabeth Krueger, founder of Chicago-based Elizabeth Krueger Design (EKD) - one of the country’s top residential design firms.

Since launching EKD in 2012, Elizabeth has built a reputation for creating warm, inviting spaces that bring people together. Her work has been featured in Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Luxe Interiors + Design, and many other top publications.

At the heart of her process is an ability to foster trust, ensuring each project reflects her clients’ lives in a way that feels effortless yet deeply personal.

Beyond her design work, Elizabeth is known for her collaborative spirit. Alongside her business partner Sid Parack, she co-founded Opame Collective - a curated assemblage of furniture, art, accessories, and textiles. Each piece is thoughtfully selected with a focus on material integrity, proportion, and expert craftsmanship.

Elizabeth brings inspiration wherever she goes, whether through her work, her contagious enthusiasm, or simply by being herself.

Tune in for a conversation on designing spaces that encourage rest, reflection, and renewal all year long.

Together in this episode, Anne and Elizabeth discuss:

• Elizabeth’s journey into design
• Her signature process for building trust with clients
• Simple, impactful ways to refresh your home in 2025
• The inspiration behind her sub-brand, Opame Collective

 Complete show notes can be found at: styledbyark.com/podcast/elizabeth-kreuger-design

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Connect with Elizabeth on IG:  @elizabeth.kreuger.design and  elizabethkreugerdesign.com
Connect with Anne on IG: @styledbyark
Connect with Classic & Curious on IG:  @classicandcuriouslife