Thanksgiving is all about gathering around the table, sharing favorite traditions, and taking a little extra time to enjoy the people we love. And while the turkey may get top billing, there is always room for something chocolate!
For anyone planning a beautiful holiday table or looking for a thoughtful hostess gift, Bissinger’s Thanksgiving collection offers plenty of sweet inspiration. From chocolate turkeys to autumn treats, these confections bring a festive touch to entertaining and gifting.
A Chocolate Turkey Worth Making Room For
One turkey on the table is expected. A second one made of chocolate? That is a conversation starter.
Bissinger’s “Original” Centerpiece Turkey, a three-pound chocolate creation, makes a playful focal point for a Thanksgiving dessert display. For a smaller touch at each seat, the Place Setting Turkeys, offered in a set of 12, are a charming addition to the table.
Try placing one beside each guest’s name card, surrounded by autumn linens, greenery, and candlelight. It is an easy way to make every place setting feel a little more special—and gives everyone a sweet treat to enjoy later.
Thanksgiving Pie, with a Chocolate Twist
If your family has a hard time choosing a favorite Thanksgiving pie, Bissinger’s Autumn Pie Truffle Collection offers a delicious solution. The 16-piece assortment features Pumpkin Pie, Chocolate Silk Pie, Apple Pie, and Pecan Pie flavors.
Serve them alongside your traditional desserts or arrange them on a small tray to pass with after-dinner coffee. A box would also make a lovely thank-you for the host who has spent days planning, shopping, and cooking.
A Little Creativity for the Kids’ Table
The Milk Chocolate Paint A Turkey Kit turns a holiday treat into an activity. Each kit includes a milk chocolate turkey, a natural chocolate paint kit, and paintbrushes so everyone can give their turkey its own personality.
I love the idea of setting up a decorating spot for younger guests while the finishing touches are being made in the kitchen. Their creations can become part of the table décor before it is time to enjoy them!
Festive Cookies to Share
For an easy addition to your dessert platter, Bissinger’s Chocolate-Covered Thanksgiving Cookies come in a 12-piece assortment. Chocolate sandwich cookies are coated in Bissinger’s chocolate and finished with fall decorations, which may vary.
Arrange them on a cake stand alongside the pies, bring a box to Friendsgiving, or save a few for that quiet moment after the dishes are done. Sometimes a cup of coffee and a chocolate-covered cookie are the perfect finish to a busy holiday.
A Thoughtful Way to Say Thank You
Whether you are hosting the whole family or arriving as a guest, a seasonal chocolate gift is a lovely way to show your appreciation. Choose something for the table, something to share, or a little surprise for the person bringing everyone together.
A beautiful bouquet that adds fragrance to your home without lighting a wick? That’s the charm of the wax melt creations from Custom Candle Co. in Bedford Hills. Combining decorative flowers with home fragrance, these handcrafted arrangements make thoughtful gifts and lovely additions to your own space.
At NS Lifestyles, we love discovering something unexpected for hostess gifts, holiday celebrations, and those moments when you want to give someone a little something special.
Beautiful on Display—No Flame Required
Custom Candle Co.’s bouquets can be enjoyed just as they are, releasing fragrance while keeping their floral designs intact. Each rose, peony, and bud is poured and shaped by hand, so no two arrangements are exactly alike.
These decorative creations can retain their scent for up to 12 months without burning, depending on the arrangement and its surroundings. That makes them an appealing way to enjoy flowers and fragrance together over time.
A Festive Bouquet for the Holidays
One especially beautiful holiday arrangement features scented red wax roses and floral blooms nestled in a rich, deep-green velvet flowerpot. Festive greenery, red berries, and delicate white tulle complete the design, giving it an elegant, celebratory feel.
Picture it welcoming guests on an entryway table, adding a seasonal touch to a side table, or serving as a holiday centerpiece. The combination of red blooms and green velvet feels classic and would complement everything from a traditional Christmas setting to a simple arrangement of candles and greenery.
It’s a thoughtful gift for someone special—or a beautiful reason to treat your own home.
How Do Wax Melts Work?
Wax melts contain fragrance that is released as the wax warms. An electric wax warmer gently heats the wax without requiring an open flame.
With these bouquets, you have two ways to enjoy them: display the arrangement intact for its beauty and scent, or remove individual wax flowers to use in a wax warmer. Custom Candle Co. confirms both options for its floral bouquets.
Place only the wax in the warmer, removing any stems, tulle, greenery, berries, or other decorative materials first, and follow your warmer’s instructions.
Seasonal and One-of-a-Kind Designs
From Halloween and Christmas creations to custom designs, these wax melts offer a playful way to bring personality into seasonal decorating and gift-giving. Ask the shop about current selections and custom options for your occasion.
For anyone who appreciates flowers, fragrance, and a beautifully considered gift, this is a local find to keep on your list.
Explore the Wax Melt Collection, or visit Custom Candle Co. at 720 North Bedford Road, Bedford Hills, NY 10507. Call (914) 218-8357 for available arrangements and custom inquiries.
For a business, choosing the right office space is a decision that can shape everything from daily operations to future growth. Location, lease terms, financial commitments and the flexibility to adapt all play a role. Having an experienced advisor guide that process can make a meaningful difference.
I’m delighted to introduce David Dusek as NS Lifestyles’ commercial real estate expert. With more than 30 years of experience and over 22 million square feet of completed leasing transactions, David brings extensive negotiating experience and a broad understanding of how real estate decisions support a company’s larger business goals.
Experience Across Industries and Markets
David specializes in tenant representation, advising the companies that occupy commercial space. His clients include private equity firms, portfolio companies, investment management funds and FinTech businesses, with experience spanning financial services, healthcare, media, technology and luxury retail.
His career began at Jones Lang Wooton and has included positions at Studley and Jones Lang LaSalle. Over the years, he has developed a substantial corporate client network and expertise in managing transactions across multiple markets. Today, his work encompasses New York’s Tri-State area, Nashville, and national and international markets.
David’s accomplishments include multiple JLL “Top Gun” Producer Awards, recognizing his standing among the firm’s leading producers globally, with a top 1% ranking. The Associated Press transaction he worked on was also a finalist for the Real Estate Board of New York’s “Deal of the Year” Award.
A Strategy Built Around the Business
David’s approach focuses on negotiating office leases that give companies the flexibility to grow or reduce their space as their needs evolve. That means considering how a real estate commitment fits into a business’s plans over time.
For a growing company, room for expansion may be a priority. For an established organization, the conversation may center on relocating its headquarters, adjusting its footprint or coordinating offices across several markets. David brings experience in each of these areas, including global transaction management, portfolio oversight and lease administration.
For business owners and executives, this broader perspective helps connect individual leasing decisions to the needs of the entire organization.
A Portfolio of Recognizable Clients
Throughout his career, David has served businesses across a wide range of industries. His client experience includes IK Investment Partners, L Catterton, Cerberus Capital, CVC Capital Partners and OMERS P.E. in private equity and investment management.
He has also worked with Vialto Partners, Alvarez & Marsal, Epiq Systems, Attentive Mobile, Associated Press, EMI Music and WNET/Channel 13. In luxury and retail, his experience includes Hermès, LVMH, Elizabeth Arden and J.Crew.
These assignments reflect the different operational, financial and space requirements that companies bring to a commercial real estate decision.
Major Transactions and Global Responsibilities
David’s transaction history includes significant headquarters assignments and large office leases, including:
Alvarez & Marsal: A 250,000-square-foot headquarters relocation from 600 Madison Avenue to 100 Park Avenue, alongside responsibility for North American transaction management, portfolio oversight and lease administration.
J.Crew: A 350,000-square-foot transaction at 770 Broadway.
Associated Press: A 292,000-square-foot transaction at 450 West 33rd Street.
EMI Music: A 175,000-square-foot transaction at 150 Fifth Avenue.
Liquidnet: A 130,000-square-foot transaction at 620 Eighth Avenue, the New York Times Building.
Attentive Mobile: A 100,000-square-foot transaction at 115 West 18th Street.
His responsibilities have also included global transaction management and lease administration for Epiq Systems, as well as global transaction management and real estate portfolio oversight for Vialto Partners.
Beyond Commercial Real Estate
David resides in Nashville, Tennessee, and spends part of his time in Darien, Connecticut. An avid golfer and skier, he is also a triathlete and runner who has participated in the NYC Olympic Triathlon and several regional events.
He is a licensed real estate broker in New York and Tennessee and a member of the Real Estate Board of New York. His educational background includes the University of Arizona and Blair Academy.
His community involvement includes serving on the Corporate Advisory Board of Inwood House and supporting organizations focused on cancer research, literacy and athletics, as well as fundraising for Berkshire School and Kent School.
Get to Know David Through NS Lifestyles
In the coming months, David will share insights with NS Lifestyles readers on office leasing, relocation planning and the questions companies should ask before making their next commercial real estate commitment.
Whether your business is preparing for growth, approaching a lease expiration or exploring a new market, David offers a depth of experience that can help inform the conversation.
New York’s Cipriani Wall Street welcomed an extraordinary gathering of entertainers, philanthropists and supporters on October 19 for Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation’s 28th Annual Angel Ball. With powerhouse performances, heartfelt tributes and an inspiring spirit of generosity, the evening raised $3 million to advance blood cancer research.
Hosted by Foundation co-founders Denise Rich and her daughters, Daniella Rich Kilstock and Ilona Rich Schachter, the black-tie celebration honored Lynda Carter, Nicola Verses and Dionne Warwick for their humanitarian and philanthropic contributions.
Behind the evening’s glamour was a deeply personal mission: honoring the memory of Denise’s daughter, Gabrielle Rich Aouad, who passed away from acute myelogenous leukemia at just 27. Her legacy continues through the Foundation’s support of scientists working toward more effective, less toxic treatments for blood cancers.
Celebrating Extraordinary Women
This year’s honorees brought remarkable careers and a shared commitment to making a difference.
Singer, actress and philanthropist Lynda Carter was recognized for her advocacy and dedication to raising awareness of blood cancer research. Entrepreneur and philanthropist Nicola Verses was celebrated for her charitable work and lasting community impact, while legendary six-time Grammy Award winner Dionne Warwick was honored for her extraordinary legacy.
Deborah Cox served as emcee and delivered a moving performance of Whitney Houston’s “The Greatest Love of All.” Taylor Dayne and Shaggy brought their signature energy to the stage, while DJ M.O.S. and DJ Kiss kept guests on the dance floor.
A Powerful Story of Love and Hope
One of the evening’s most emotional moments came when Kelly Leach, a New York City mother, shared her family’s experience with blood cancer.
Her husband, Todd Day, passed away in October 2024 from complications related to treatment for secondary lymphoma, diagnosed seven years after his initial battle with stage III diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. At the time of his second diagnosis, the couple had been pursuing fertility treatments.
Following Todd’s passing, Kelly chose to carry forward their dream of a family, welcoming their daughter, Chloé, nearly one year later. Today, she advocates for safer, less toxic cancer therapies, sharing their story to support other patients and families.
Her words brought the evening’s purpose into sharp focus, reminding guests of the lives and futures behind every research breakthrough.
Generosity Takes Center Stage
Star Jones led a spirited paddle raise that generated more than $340,000. Artist Fer Da Silva added a meaningful creative element: donors contributing $1,000 or more received Corazon de Fer canvases, while those giving $10,000 or more received original heart sculptures.
The live auction, led by Seth Herzog of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, featured exceptional travel, jewelry and wellness experiences. Offerings included a journey through Peru with Belmond, jewelry from Lorraine Schwartz, a stay for four in two private bungalows at Four Seasons Resort Naviva in Mexico, and seven days at the Lucia Magnani Health Clinic in Italy.
A Star-Studded Guest List
Among those joining the celebration were Alec and Hilaria Baldwin, Carol Alt, Kathy Hilton, Melissa and Joe Gorga, Sandra Lee, Tiki Barber, Laura Geller, Peter Thomas Roth, Lorraine Schwartz, Ofira Sandberg, Simone I. Smith, Steve Gold, Erin Lichy, Gigi Paris and Isaac Boots, alongside many other supporters.
Kathy Hilton served as Dinner Chair, Elizabeth Elting as Honorary Chair, and Skye Hankey, Tina Knowles, Ofira Sandberg, Lorraine Schwartz and Simone I. Smith as Gala Chairs.
The evening’s sponsors included Lorraine Schwartz, L’AGENCE, Valmont and Four Seasons Naviva, with beverages from Armand de Brignac, Hunky Dory by Kathy Hilton, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, LALO Tequila and Rumor Rosé. Haute Living served as media partner, and Windsor Limo provided celebrity transportation.
Guests also departed with Fabletics gift bags featuring beauty, skincare and lifestyle offerings from brands including Grande Cosmetics, Peter Thomas Roth, Valmont, Laura Geller, Dr. Lara Devgan, Furtuna Skin and more.
There’s Still Time to Support the Cause
The celebration’s impact continues beyond the ballroom, with two online auctions open through October 22.
The Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation Charitybuzz auction features experiences including a table for four at Rao’s, Bryan Adams concert tickets and a meet-and-greet, and luxury stays at destinations including Albany in the Bahamas, The Colony Hotel in Palm Beach and Round Hill in Jamaica.
Art lovers can also explore the Angel Ball Art Auction, featuring original works by artists including Mr. Brainwash, Fernanda Laverera, Bradley Theodore, Halim Flowers and Jill Cunniff.
A Legacy That Continues to Change Lives
Since its founding in 1996, Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation for Cancer Research has awarded more than $47 million in grants, supporting early-career scientists studying leukemia, lymphoma and related blood cancers. On average, 88 cents of every dollar raised directly funds research.
The Angel Ball’s lasting significance lies in that commitment: bringing people together to help promising scientific ideas become treatments that offer patients more hope and healthier futures.
To learn more, donate or follow the Foundation’s work, visit gabriellesangels.org and follow @GabriellesAngels on Instagram and Facebook.
Photo credit: Getty Images for Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation.
An evening celebrating fashion, creativity, and the people moving both forward, Fashion Group International’s 42nd annual Night of Stars brought an extraordinary gathering to New York City’s Rainbow Room on October 14, 2026. With the theme “The Modernists,” this year’s gala recognized six leaders whose work influences how we dress, experience beauty, and connect with culture.
For me, the evening held a particularly special milestone: the opportunity to participate in the red carpet festivities and interview some of the distinguished guests. Being invited to ask a few fun questions was one of my highlights of 2026. I am so grateful to everyone who made this first-time red carpet interviewer feel welcome and approached our conversations with such warmth and graciousness.
Celebrating the People Behind the Vision
This year’s honorees represented the many creative disciplines that shape the fashion industry, from design and styling to communications, beauty, and philanthropy.
Wes Gordon, Global Creative Director of Carolina Herrera, received the Fashion Visionary Award, presented by Paige Paul. His recognition celebrated his creative leadership and contribution to contemporary American fashion.
Roksanda Ilinčić, founder and creative director of ROKSANDA, was presented with the Fashion Star Award by Jonathan Saunders, Creative Director of Kate Spade New York. Her expressive use of color, sculptural silhouettes, and attention to craftsmanship have given her work a distinctive place in fashion.
The Media Leadership Award went to Lucien Pagès, with Nicole Phelps, Director of Global Vogue Runway, presenting the honor. The recognition highlighted the role of communications in introducing creative voices to the world and shaping the stories behind influential fashion houses.
Jane Hertzmark Hudis, Executive Vice President and Chief Brand Officer of The Estée Lauder Companies, received the Beauty Award, presented by Aerin Lauder, for her leadership and work building globally recognized beauty brands.
Celebrity stylist Micaela Erlanger received the Style Award in Honor of Edith Head, presented by Christian Siriano. Her orees, business leader, designer, and philanthropist Henry R. Muñoz III received the Changemaker Award, presented by actor, writer, and producer Tonatiuh, for his work across design, architecture, culture, and institutional equity.
A Guest List as Stylish as the Occasion
The gathering included Vera Wang, Brandon Maxwell, Linda Fargo, Sybil and David Yurman, Fern Mallis, Ruben Toledo, Vlada Roslyakova, Kate Barton, Gary Wassner, Olympia of Greece, and Jean Shafiroff, Jean Claude Langerholc, among other notable guests.
Also in attendance were Katya Tolstova, Olga Ferrara, Nolan Meader, and Sergio Soldano Creative Directors Giovanni Premoli and Dario Di Bella.
With so many different creative perspectives represented, the evening offered a reminder of just how many people and disciplines contribute to fashion’s cultural influence.
Thoughtful Details Throughout the Evening
The celebration opened with a Simon G. Jewelry–sponsored cocktail reception, hosted by the brand’s Chief Operating Officer, Brooke Brinkman, before guests gathered for dinner and the awards ceremony.
For the occasion, Simon G. Jewelry created a commemorative brooch for each honoree, interpreting “The Modernists” through the house’s craftsmanship and design.
Italian fashion house Sergio Soldano also supported the evening, gifting guests exclusive Sinopia Tote Bags. Under the creative direction of Giovanni Premoli and Dario Di Bella, the revived heritage brand brought its own artistic perspective to the celebration.
Additional event sponsors included Scent Marketing, Inc., M·A·C Cosmetics, The Estée Lauder Companies, and Location 8.
Supporting Fashion’s Next Generation
Beyond the celebration, Night of Stars raises funds for the professional and educational opportunities at the heart of Fashion Group International’s mission.
Proceeds support mentorship, scholarships, educational programming, professional development, and community grants, including initiatives administered through The Fashion Group Foundation.
FGI President and CEO Maryanne Grisz emphasized the organization’s continuing commitment to connecting creative professionals and helping talent grow at every career stage. Alyce Panico, FGI Chairperson of the Board and event co-chair, reflected on the evening’s theme as a celebration of people willing to challenge convention and bring new possibilities into view.
The gala was co-chaired by Alyce Panico and Claudia Poccia, with a committee comprising Carlos Campos, Nicole Fischelis, Nolan Meader, and Karen Bromley.
For NS Lifestyles, it was a privilege to take part in an evening that celebrated both remarkable careers and the opportunities being created for those just beginning. Thank you to Fashion Group International for including me in such a memorable night and to the red carpet guests who made a new experience so much fun.
Learn more about Fashion Group International at fgi.org and follow @fginyc.
Event photography: Sean Zanni/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images.
Some fashion purchases are impulsive. Others become lifelong investments. A beautifully crafted leather jacket is one of those timeless wardrobe staples that never goes out of style—equally chic with jeans and a white T-shirt or layered over an elegant dress for an evening out.
At NS Lifestyles, we love discovering brands that prioritize quality, craftsmanship, and enduring style. That’s why we’re excited to introduce Belzette, a luxury fashion brand creating beautifully designed leather jackets for women who appreciate timeless sophistication.
The Story Behind Belzette
Founded by a trained architect and an accomplished interior designer, Belzette brings a unique design perspective to fashion. Drawing inspiration from architecture and interiors, the brand focuses on clean lines, beautiful proportions, and thoughtful details.
Rather than following fleeting trends, Belzette creates sophisticated leather jackets designed to remain wardrobe favorites for years to come.
Timeless Style Meets Exceptional Craftsmanship
A great leather jacket is one of the most versatile pieces a woman can own. It instantly elevates casual denim, adds polish to tailored trousers, and creates an effortlessly chic look when paired with a feminine dress.
Belzette’s jackets are crafted from premium leather selected for its beauty, durability, and luxurious feel. Over time, the leather naturally softens and develops character, making each piece even more personal to its owner.
With refined silhouettes and meticulous attention to detail, Belzette embraces the concept of understated luxury—beautiful pieces that make a statement without trying too hard.
Why NS Lifestyles Loves Belzette
At NS Lifestyles, we’re always drawn to brands that combine beautiful design with lasting quality, and Belzette delivers both.
Whether you’re building a capsule wardrobe or searching for that perfect investment piece, a Belzette leather jacket is a stylish addition you’ll reach for season after season.
In a world of fast fashion, Belzette reminds us that true luxury never goes out of style.
Discover Belzette
Explore the collection and discover beautifully crafted leather jackets designed to become lasting wardrobe favorites.
