L U X I E R E M AG A Z I N E
A NOTE FROM THE PUBLISHER L
uxiere Magazine is a celebration. Each issue is filled with stories of people who capture our imagination, offer us glimpses into their lives and inspire us to always dream bigger, think bolder. We search for beauty and we find it everywhere we look. The Dalai Lama has said that in order to lead a meaningful life, you need to cherish others, pay attention to human values and try to cultivate inner peace. That notion speaks to the very soul of what Luxiere is all about. Inside Edition 33, you’ll read about Ann Felton Gilliland, a woman who has elevated Central Oklahoma Habitat for Humanity into one of the largest philanthropic programs in the nation. The mostly-volunteer nonprofit has constructed more than 1,000 homes for Oklahoma families, and has moved into the realm of developing entire neighborhoods. Sho Kassam and his wife Selma Alami took their family on a month-long sojourn to Africa this summer, with the purpose of anchoring their daughter and son in their family’s roots. Lucky for you, he’s allowed us to share their story, along with a treasure trove of beautiful images, which you’ll find on page 67. The significance of family history makes an appearance in another story this issue—this one about vintage and estate jewelry, from pieces
8 LUXI E R E
you might leave to your children to a sparkling collection of royal jewels recently auctioned by Sotheby’s in the U.K. We’re also thrilled to bring you a story of sparking sustainability. Christian Keesee is a dedicated philanthropist whose guidance and largesse have benefited the arts in Oklahoma for decades. Based in New York, Keesee has launched a fascinating enterprise, Beekman New York, which offers incredible jewels to its clientele—for rent. You’ll learn more on page 54. It’s a lush, wonderful issue. We hope you’re as enamored of it as we are. Until next time,
Stacy D. Johnson Publisher, Owner @luxieremagazine luxiere
/luk-zhur-ee/ A state of abundance, beauty, ease and comfort that is unique to each individual.
