Let’s hear it for the gurus.
New York Fashion Week took a delightful whirl of French frills and fun at the GURUtine’s Luncheon on Feb. 16.
Gurus Media publisher and CEO, Derek Warburton, hosted the exclusive affair at Maison Close to celebrate love, fashion, and culture alongside featured guests and Gurus Magazine cover stars Hilaria Baldwin, Nicole Miller, and Sutton Stracke.
(PHOTO BY DENNIS TOOSHKANOV)
Set against the romantic backdrop of SoHo’s famed French dining destination, the intimate gathering blended Parisian elegance with Big Apple sophistication. The “Emily in Paris” themed afternoon served as both a Valentine’s weekend bash and a stylish finale to NYFW festivities.
Tastemakers and industry leaders including “ANTM” veteran Nolé Marin, celebrated painter Marc Dennis, “Beauty Guru Magazine” Editor-in-Chief Robyn Newmark, and “Gurus Magazine” Managing Editor Ashley Kane were also on hand for the divine soiree as well as actress Kimberley Kim, entrepreneur Bill Weidemann, The Blonde Italian’s Lauren Falcione, and modern relationship expert Kara Francis.
(PHOTO BY DENNIS TOOSHKANOV)
Cocktails sponsored by Broken Shed Vodka offered a refined complement to the afternoon’s romantic atmosphere. Maison Close’s attentive staff delivered an expertly curated, family-style culinary journey that began with indulgent starters including garlic butter escargot, delicate salmon tartare, and tortellini filled with braised short rib and spinach. A comforting beef bouillon layered with carrots and onions followed, elegantly served over warm puréed potatoes, alongside perfectly grilled red snapper accompanied by braised cabbage — a balance of richness and refined French technique.
Dessert concluded the afternoon on a sweet, airy note with an egg-white fluff tart paired alongside a decadent mousse crème wafer, complemented by freshly brewed espresso. The elegant dining experience reflected Gurus Media’s commitment to cultivating intimate, culturally rich gatherings that celebrate both luxury and connection.
(PHOTO BY DENNIS TOOSHKANOV)
Warburton addressed the attendees with gratitude as he reflected on the values of truth, passion, and authenticity, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself. Noting that many in the room shared relationships spanning two and three decades, he spoke on the significance of legacy while underscoring the role of innovation and loyalty in shaping the future.
The luncheon concluded with thoughtfully curated gift bags featuring Nicole Miller Beauty, Yensa, and select luxury lifestyle brands, leaving guests with a stylish reminder of an afternoon defined by romance, creativity, and community. Gurus Media’s GURUtine’s Luncheon captured the spirit of modern Parisian glamour while celebrating the voices, relationships, and creative energy shaping today’s cultural landscape.
