
Luxury culture
The wealthy elite has moved beyond the luxury labels and ostentation of the eighties as today’s top earners forsake show status symbols in favor of the kind of unique experiences that only the privileged enjoy. Whether it’s dining in the finest restaurants or a private audience with a world-famous soprano, the pleasure no longer rests in the acquisition of luxury goods, but in the pursuit of exclusivity. Reverting to primeval instincts, the challenge is in the chase – obtaining the unobtainable.
Today’s most sought-after luxury, however, is time. While time can’t literally be bought, forward-thinking entrepreneurs have cashed in on it as a prime commodity. Rising to a variety of challenges, from the sublime to the ridiculous, these modern-day Jeeves perform daily miracles in the name of luxury.
Preferred Circle is the highly exclusive bespoke service founded by Emad Ghobrial, former concierge of the Peninsula Beverly Hills Hotel. LA-based Ghobrial and his team achieve the almost impossible for the fortunate few. The uber elite service is often called upon by it’s “high net worth jetset global nomads.” as Ghobrial refers to them, for everything from jumping the waiting list for an Hermes Kelly bag, to organizing private performances by the world’s top stars. “Our clients want to be able to get what they want, when they want it, that’s what they pay for,” he explains. “We alwats try to be one step ahead and I think that has a lot to do with the relationships we have with out clients; it’s very personal.” Membership is by member referral or personal invite only.
www.preferredcircle.com
Emad Ghobrial’s Secret Addresses
HOTEL BAUR AU LAX, ZURICH
www.bauraulac.ch
BLUE RIBBON RESTAURANT, MANHATTAN
www.blueribbonrestaurants.com
LAS VENTANAS AL PARAISO, LOS CABOS, MEXICO
www.lasventanas.com