Simon Waterson: International Man of Fitness

Right from the parkour-inspired opening of Casino Royal, it was clear Daniel Craig was a new breed of Bond. Recklessly smashing through walls on a hectic construction site, viciously dragging a bomb maker through an embassy-turned-war-zone, and strutting around bare-chested, showing off his ripped new bod, it was obvious we were seeing a state-of-the-art 007. This brawny, muscle-bound Bond was thanks in part to Craig’s off-screen work ethic, but a nod certainly has to go to the insatiable drive and expert guidance of his personal trainer, Simon Waterson.

A former commando of the British Royal Navy, Waterson’s resolute determination, unrelenting motivation and incorporation of military philosophy into exercise has made him a leading man in Hollywood personal fitness. “That kind of philosophy suits the film business very, very well, because they’re very, very similar,” Read more

One-of-a-kind Bridal Dresses at Studio Sposa, Kleinburg

Here comes the bride, all dressed in a predicable gown worn by others before her: a fashion no-no committed on the most important day of her life. Luckily, these cookie-cutter bridal looks play second fiddle at Studio Sposa.

Bringing some of the world’s best designers home, the warmly romantic boutique offers rare collections for a unique and beautiful approach to modern elegance and traditional affection in bridal wear. Amidst tufts of tulle and delicate silk duchess rises a Studio Sposa bride – a woman who fittingly swathes her silhouette in fine beauty, expert craftsmanship and handmade couture. “We always thought that if we were to do something, how would it be different. We then started doing research on wedding dresses and designers,” says Mariangela Muia, who met Mary D’Aversa while both worked in the financial sector. Read more

Summer Blender: Smooth, Refreshing Beverages

Photo, above: Breakfast in a Glass

As the summer starts to sizzle, there’s no better way to keep cool than with smooth, refreshing beverages. Not only are they great to combat the sweltering temperature, a rich, frothy and fruity blend will dazzle friends and family alike. So reach for the blender, whip up some of these tasty concoctions, and get out on the patio and enjoy summer the way it should be: with a cold drink in your hand. Read more

St. Phillips Bakery in Maple

Every celebration has an ending, but not before cake is served. For centuries, baked desserts have served a traditional role in the celebratory landscape – from birthdays and bar mitzvahs to weddings and anniversaries. Yet, cakes have evolved from their conventional role of edible accessories to the main event themselves, reflecting innovation and uniqueness in baking craftsmanship.

Surmounting the pressure that comes with creating good-looking cake is Robert Bozzo, owner and executive chef of St. Phillips Bakery in Maple, Ont. The scent and sight of freshly baked cakes topped with Callebaut chocolate; creamy pastries oozing with chilled cream, festive treats and hot crispy breads has generated crowds of customers yearning for a bite of St. Phillips, a multi-faceted bakery renowned for all things sweet since 1989. Read more

Cupido, A Trendsetter in the Jewelry Industry

Fashion luxury jewelry is for those with an innate desire for high fashion. They’re the modern-day movers and shakers, social butterflies and reputed gift givers who appreciate timeless pieces but are also in tune with trends. Cupido’s contemporary interpretation of luxury brings brands like Pandora, Michael Kors, 3H Italia and Hermès to the table. Cupido is now introducing three new lines, ensuring its long list of luxury products never stops growing.

Taken from the Latin word for desire, Cupido stays true to its name. Jeff Karadjian, Cupido’s co-founder, swears by featuring products that he is passionate about and that customers long for. As a leader in the jewelry industry, Cupido prides itself on being the first to carry a product. “We are at the beginning of the trends overseas, so that we are the trendsetters in the Canadian marketplace,” says Karadjian. Read more

Summer Real Estate

From contemporary condominiums to haute homes, revel in this eclectic mix of residential gems.

Kleinburg Reserve “on the boulevard” The esteemed quality of Quintessa Homes Corporation comes to life in its latest project, Kleinburg Reserve “on the boulevard.” This eminent enclave of properties near the Humber River ravines provides “a new level of luxury.” www.quintessa.ca

THE MERCER The Mercer’s, “It’s all about ME,” tag line says it best. An architectural gem at the centre of downtown Toronto, this contemporary condo and its harmonized culture typifies the vibrant spirit of the city in which it resides. Read more

The Grand Genesis Rising to the Occasion

In all its beauty and enterprise, a looking-glass luxury in the heart of Richmond Hill rises to the expectations of its name. The Grand Genesis is a soaring venture, where groundbreaking features have interested buyers enraptured; and crystal-clear views of a transforming city below take luxury towards a limitless sky of possibility. “We are born with one name and I have put mine on this project,” says Stefano Guizzetti. The president and founder of the long-established real estate and development firm Guizzetti Developments Inc. partners with Holborn Developments Inc. to bring the height of glass couture to the community of Richmond Hill.

Like a champagne flute overflowing with celebration, a gleaming façade of glass encases exquisite interior design of imported granite and marble-polished surfaces, top-of-the-line amenities and spacious suites. Future residents are welcomed with a Read more

Life in Our City — Vaughan

Sweet and stylish summer offerings from across the municipality

We LOVE Cappuccino
Warm your heart with the rich blends of Ionia … il Caffè and fall in love with coffee all over again.  www.alfacappuccino.ca

We Scream for Ice Cream
Renowned for its cakes, pastries and breads, St. Phillips Bakery also scoops out soft and creamy ice cream for a refreshing mouthful. www.stphillipsbakery.com

Hitting the Jackpot
Light and breezy, this flowing white top is a soft contrast to the vivid pink of these casual shorts from Jackpot. Read more

Wood Staining Tips with Claudio Grisolia of Steeles Paint

If there’s one thing that can tarnish your backyard’s good name, it’s a poor-looking deck and fence. Over time, sun and moisture can damage exposed decks and fences, giving an undesirable weathered look. To ensure the longevity and durability of your wooden deck and fence, applying a good quality wood stain is a must. But before the brushing begins, there are a few important points to consider.

First and foremost, the wood must be prepared. If your deck and fence has seen a few winters and you’re looking to recoat the lumber, cleaning is crucial. “It removes any mould, grime and dirt from the wood, and gives the finished product a more pristine look,” says Claudio Grisolia, owner of Steeles Paint.

If this is the first season for your timber, you’re in luck: no cleaning is required. However, if you just recently built Read more

Summer Books & Music

Summer inspiration is at your fingertips, with pages that bring out your creativity and lyrics that bring you around the world.

1. Preserves and Pickles There’s nothing like homemade jam in the summertime. Turn to Gloria Nicol’s cookbook for 25 mouth-watering spreads. Read more

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