As New York Fashion Week drew to a glamorous close, Gurus Media hosted an unforgettable afternoon celebrating fashion, friendship, and creativity with its exclusive GURUtine’s Luncheon. Held on Monday, February 16th at the elegant Maison Close restaurant in SoHo, the event brought together influential voices from fashion, media, art, and entertainment for an intimate gathering that blended romance with refined sophistication. Hosted by Publisher and CEO Derek Warburton, the luncheon served as both a Valentine’s weekend celebration and a stylish finale to one of the fashion industry’s most anticipated weeks.
Parisian Elegance Meets New York Energy
Maison Close provided the perfect setting for the occasion, transforming the luncheon into a Parisian-inspired escape in the heart of Manhattan. Known for its French charm and luxurious interiors, the restaurant featured plush royal-blue velvet banquettes, dramatic crimson drapery, and lush floral arrangements that created an atmosphere of warmth and elegance. A striking mural depicting classic can-can dancers added a playful European flair, transporting guests from downtown New York to the romance of the Champs-Élysées.
The décor was carefully curated to reflect Gurus Media’s editorial identity. Magazine covers were displayed throughout the space, visually connecting the brand’s storytelling with the real-world personalities who shape its pages. Featured covers included Gurus Magazine icons such as Hilaria Baldwin, Nicole Miller, and Sutton Stracke, alongside Los Angeles Inquisitor covers featuring Bill Weidemann, Kara Francis, and Kimberley Kim. The presentation transformed the venue into a living editorial experience, reinforcing the intersection between media, culture, and community.
A Gathering of Influential Tastemakers
The guest list reflected the diversity and creative spirit of New York’s cultural scene. Wellness advocate Hilaria Baldwin attended with her daughter Carmen, while celebrated fashion designer Nicole Miller added a touch of iconic industry presence. Reality television personality and entrepreneur Sutton Stracke joined alongside publicist Anna Rothschild, fashion personality and America’s Next Top Model veteran Nolé Marin, and renowned painter Marc Dennis.
Media leaders were also well represented, including Beauty Guru Magazine Editor-in-Chief Robyn Newmark and Gurus Magazine Managing Editor Ashley Kane. Actress Kimberley Kim, entrepreneur Bill Weidemann, and lifestyle personality Lauren Falcione of The Blonde Italian contributed to the lively atmosphere, while modern relationship expert Kara Francis brought her signature insight into conversations centered on connection and authenticity. Vanessa Coppes, CEO of BELLA Magazine, added another influential editorial voice to the afternoon’s celebration. Together, the guests created a vibrant blend of industries united by creativity, collaboration, and shared appreciation for fashion and culture.
Signature Cocktails and Culinary Excellence
Guests were welcomed with signature cocktails titled Young Hearts and All Things Nice, sponsored by Broken Shed Vodka. Originating from Lake Wanaka, New Zealand, the vodka’s clean and smooth profile elevated the drinks while complementing the luncheon’s romantic theme. As conversations flowed, Maison Close’s attentive staff presented a thoughtfully curated family-style menu that celebrated classic French culinary traditions.
The dining experience 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, served elegantly over creamy puréed potatoes. Guests also enjoyed perfectly grilled red snapper paired with braised cabbage, showcasing refined technique and balanced flavors that highlighted the restaurant’s culinary craftsmanship.
Dessert concluded the meal on a light and elegant note, featuring an airy egg-white fluff tart alongside a rich mousse crème wafer, complemented by freshly brewed espresso. The culinary journey reflected Gurus Media’s philosophy of creating experiences that blend luxury with meaningful connection.
Words of Gratitude and Reflection
As the luncheon drew toward its close, Derek Warburton addressed guests with heartfelt remarks. Expressing gratitude to attendees and the Maison Close team, he spoke about the importance of authenticity, passion, and staying true to one’s personal vision. Warburton reflected on the long-standing relationships shared among many guests, noting friendships and collaborations that have lasted decades. His message emphasized legacy while encouraging innovation, loyalty, and creative evolution as guiding principles for the future.
The speech reinforced the deeper purpose behind the gathering: celebrating not only fashion and media achievements but also the human connections that sustain creative communities.
A Stylish Ending to Fashion Week
The afternoon concluded with curated gift bags featuring Nicole Miller Beauty, Yensa, and a selection of luxury lifestyle brands, offering guests a lasting reminder of the event’s elegance and thoughtfulness. More than a social gathering, the GURUtine’s Luncheon captured the spirit of modern Parisian glamour while honoring the relationships and voices shaping today’s cultural landscape.
By merging fashion, editorial storytelling, and meaningful connection, Gurus Media successfully created an experience that felt both intimate and influential. As New York Fashion Week came to an end, the luncheon stood as a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and love — a fitting finale that highlighted the enduring power of community within the ever-evolving world of fashion and media.
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