Feel The Love: Gurus Media Celebrates NYFW Finale with a GURUtine’s Luncheon at Maison Close Restaurant in New York City
On Monday, February 16th,Gurus Media celebrated love, fashion, and culture with its exclusive GURUtine’s Luncheon, hosted by Publisher and CEO Derek Warburton. Set against the romantic backdrop of SoHo’s famed French dining destination, the intimate gathering blended Parisian elegance with New York sophistication. Inspired by the whimsical charm of Emily in Paris, the afternoon served as both a Valentine’s weekend celebration and a stylish finale to New York’s fashion festivities.
Maison Close provided a visually enchanting setting, adorned with plush royal-blue velvet banquettes, dramatic crimson velvet drapery, and lush, oversized floral arrangements. A captivating Parisian mural featuring classic can-can dancers added a touch of playful romance, transporting guests from Manhattan to the Champs-Élysées. The carefully curated décor created an inviting, luxurious atmosphere perfectly suited for meaningful conversation, networking, and celebration. The space also reflected Gurus Media’s editorial presence, with printed covers displayed throughout the setting. Featured were Gurus Magazine covers ofHilaria Baldwin,Nicole Miller, andSutton Stracke, alongsideLos Angeles Inquisitorcovers ofBill Weidemann,Kara Francis, andKimberley Kim — visually bringing the publications into the room and reinforcing the connection between editorial storytelling and real-world community.
The luncheon welcomed an impressive guest list of tastemakers and industry leaders, including wellness advocate Hilaria Baldwin and her daughter Carmen, renowned fashion designer Nicole Miller, RHOBH star Sutton Stracke, publicistAnna Rothschild, ANTM veteranNolé Marin, celebrated painterMarc Dennis, Beauty Guru Magazine Editor-in-Chief Robyn Newmark, and Gurus Magazine Managing EditorAshley Kane. Additional notable attendees included actress Kimberley Kim, entrepreneur Bill Weidemann, The Blonde Italian’sLauren Falcione, and modern relationship expert and divorce Guru Kara Francis, each contributing to the vibrant and sophisticated energy that defined the afternoon. Also in attendance wasVanessa Coppes, CEO ofBELLA Magazine, joining the celebration.
Guests were greeted with signature cocktails, Young Hearts and All Things Nice, sponsored byBroken Shed Vodka, offering a refined complement to the afternoon’s romantic atmosphere. Originating from Lake Wanaka, New Zealand, the vodka is crafted from dual water sources to deliver a smooth, clean profile that enhances cocktails.
As guests mingled and toasted the occasion, Maison Close’s attentive staff delivered an expertly curated, family-style culinary journey. The luncheon 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.
Before the afternoon drew to a close, Derek Warburton addressed the intimate gathering, expressing gratitude to guests and thanking Maison Close for hosting. In his remarks, he reflected on the values of truth, passion, and authenticity, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself. Noting that many in attendance 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 featuringNicole 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.
