Many St. Louisans know that Ivey-Selkirk is an institution, having been around since 1830. But what some may not know is that it’s the second-oldest auction house in the United States. Ladue News spoke with owner/president Malcolm Ivey, an industry veteran for more than 20 years. 

Delectable pies lured 110 guests to the home of Stephen and Ann Cortinovis, co-chairs of the Sweetie Pie Champagne Party and pie auction to benefit Saint Louis Ballet. Susan McHaney assisted Ivey Selkirk’s Mark Howald in auctioning off the delectable desserts, which raised more than $14,000 for the company’s educational programs, including The Saint Louis Ballet School, a Summer Ballet Intensive and upcoming productions.

It was ‘An Enchanted Evening’ for Circus Flora’s sixth annual FloraDora Fantasy Fund-raiser at Centene Center for Arts and Education. Guests enjoyed delectable food, daring acrobatic feats, animal performances, high-wire walkers and more.

Indoors or out, there’s something about being surrounded by beauty that is truly inspiring. Here’s a sampling of what’s on view at area museums this fall:

Edgewood Children’s Center celebrated 175 years of service to children and families in the community with a “Kids at Heart” gala at the Chase Park Plaza.  Emcee Vickie Newton, KMOV anchor, welcomed the 250 guests who raised more than $55,000 to help further the programs, and the compassionate care and treatment Edgewood provides through therapy, special education, case management and support services.

Who wouldn’t want a wonderful piece of art, perhaps one by a well-known artist whom others admire? But buying investment-quality art can be daunting, especially considering the sums of money changing hands, and the nagging thought that art is often hard to authenticate.

> There are big things afoot with Chef GERARD CRAFT’S group of restaurants. It’s been announced that Taste by Niche will be moving from its current space adjacent to Niche Restaurant in Benton Park, and taking up residence in the former home of Moxy Bistro, 4584 Laclede Ave., in the CWE, which, coincidentally, is next door to sister restaurant Brasserie by Niche. The new Taste space will have approximately 40 seats and will open sometime in December. Then Niche, Craft’s flagship restaurant, which just celebrated its fifth anniversary, will move into the 12-seat space formerly occupied by Taste and concentrate on 8-and 10-course tasting menus. The former Niche space will then be transformed into Porano, an osteria serving Italian country fare and inspired by a trip Craft took to Umbria, Italy. The new eatery is scheduled to bow in January. Whew!

When we admire a painting on the wall, we don’t think about crediting anyone other than its artist. But in actuality, many people are involved in the journey of a single work from the artist’s studio to its destination on the wall. From collectors to consultants to restoration specialists, the art world is as varied as the works themselves.

In 1982, Clark Graves, the owner of Clark Graves Antiques, took newly minted graduate Robert Morrissey on board at his renowned store. After Graves passed away, Morrissey took over the shop, regarded as one of St. Louis’ finest antiques sources. Ladue News spoke with Morrissey about his penchant for antiques and what people can do to learn more about them.

 From fine dining to quaint parks, posh hotels and designer boutiques, Clayton boasts extensive options for a relaxing and indulgent weekend.

Once again, Ladue News readers have proven that they’re in the know about our town’s most exciting hot spots! This year’s Platinum List features iconic St. Louis institutions, as well as some new spots you’ll be wanting to check out.

          A thing of beauty is a joy forever, but forever is a long time. Paintings, sculptures and fine furniture, like people, are vulnerable to the ravages of aging. Fortunately, several area galleries and businesses specialize in the meticulous craft of restoration. Their expertise can help you care for your fine art and antiques.

You voted, we listened! Ladue News readers know what they like; and with this year's Platinum List, you've made your voices heard. This list compiles the best of St. Louis.