R. Couri Hay is Social Life’s Travel Editor and Society Columnist. He began his career at Andy Warhol’s Interview and has written for Town & Country and People. Hay also appears on CNN, PBS, Fox, and VH1 commenting on Hollywood. He lives in New York City and Southampton and is the CEO of his own PR firm. 

Jay McIninery & Anne Hearst , Sandra & Eric Ripert , Vera Wang , Martha Stewart , Peter Marino , Isabelle Bscher, Nicky Rothschild & Brooke Shields 

The Southampton Arts Center Commemorates 250 Years of the American Flag 

The Southampton Arts Center (SAC) is kicking off Memorial Day weekend with a historic exhibition, Independency: The American Flag at 250 Years. Curated by historian John Monsky, the exhibition explores the American flag’s evolution over two and a half centuries, using rare and significant flags to tell the nation’s story. From a rare kerchief commissioned by Martha Washington in 1775 to flags flown during the Apollo moon landings, each piece offers a unique perspective on the nation’s past. The show is divided into four galleries: Introduction, featuring early American flags, Campaigns, Parades, and Protests, highlighting 19th-century political flags, Vietnam and the Moon, showcasing flags from the turbulent 1960s, and Sacrifice, honoring those who served in battle from the War of 1812 to Afghanistan. Each gallery pairs flags with contemporary photographs, drawings, and artifacts, immersing visitors in the eras these flags represent. As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, Independency invites visitors to reflect on the flag’s role in shaping national identity. Through triumphs and tragedies, innovation and sacrifice, the flag remains a symbol of our country’s ongoing story. The SAC’s co-founder is Simon Levinson, with Christina Strassfield as the Executive Director. The exhibition runs from May 17th to July 19th. https://southamptonartscenter.org 

Jay McInerney Celebrates 

Michael J. Fox, Phoebe Cates, Kiefer Sutherland, and Dianne Wiest starred in the movie version of author Jay McInerney’s best-selling book Bright Lights, Big City which defined the decadent nightlife of the 80s in NYC. The debonair writer known for his good taste in clothes and wine celebrated his 70th birthday at a dinner party at Le Bernardin given by his wife, the media heiress, Anne Hearst. During a break in the 

five-course tasting menu by Michelin-starred chef Eric Ripert, the writer drew laughs when he confessed, “Last year I had three different hospital stays; so I’m really glad to have made it to 70 in 2025,” adding, “While in the hospital my friend Eric Ripert sent me two meals that made me want to live again so here I am.” Among those drinking the vintage wines were friends from all over the country including Gregory Peck’s son Tony Peck and his wife Paula, baroness Milly de Cabrol, Dana Hammond and her husband Dr. Patrick Stubgen, designer Vera Wang and her husband Arthur P. Becker, Binky Urban, Robert Zimmerman, Candace Bushnell, Chef Ripert’s wife Sandra Ripert, Risk and Returns author Wilbur Ross and his wife Hilary Geary, Alison Mazzola who orchestrated the party and other members of the Demi-monde. 

Race of Hope 

Audrey Gruss’s Hope For Depression Research Foundation’s Race of Hope in Palm Beach broke all records attracting over 1,200 people, including socialites Jamee and Peter Gregory, Whitney and Christine Schott, and The Colony Hotel’s Sarah Wetenhall. The event, which raised over one million dollars, celebrated its seventh anniversary and raised funds for life-saving mental health research into new treatments for clinical depression. Over the years, the organization has honored Dakota Johnson, Anderson Cooper, Brooke Shields, and Michael Phelps. This year’s sponsors included James Borynack and Adolfo Zaralegui of Findlay Galleries and Livingston Builders, Teresa and Jim Remez. HDRF’s Southampton 5K Race/Walk takes place on August 3rd. To sign up, go to https://hopefordepression.org. 

East Side House Settlement 

Third-generation gallerist Isabelle Bscher’s Galerie Gmurzynska made a bold Winter Show debut at the Park Avenue Armory with a vibrant display of 20th-century masterpieces and contemporary standouts. Front and center was Wesselmann’s Cigarette #1 —a jaw-dropping, two-paneled sculpture crafted from oil, wax crayon, and printed paper. Commanding attention with its bold composition, the piece embodies Wesselmann’s signature ‘flirty narrative’ in tandem with the evolution of his infamous smoker’s collection. Gmurzynska showcased a work by Georges Braque, Heinrich Campendonk, Wassily Kandinsky, Jacques Lipchitz, and Joan Miró. In the mix at the opening night party that benefitted the East Side House Settlement were Michael Bloomberg with his decorator Jamie Drake, Martha Stewart, Ryan Murphy, Nicky Rothschild, Peter Marino, Kathy Rayner, Prince Dimitri of Yugoslavia, Coco Kopelman and Jerry Lauren. https://gmurzynska.com 

Honor in Armor: Inside the Vatican Swiss Guard 

This year’s Oscar-nominated film Conclave, starring Ralph Fiennes, Isabella Rossellini, and Stanley Tucci, tells the intriguing story of what happens when a Pope dies and a new one is elected. The movie also calls attention to the role of the colorfully uniformed Vatican Swiss Guard, which has been protecting the Pope and Vatican City since 1506. The Guards even travel with Pope Francis, including during his recent hospital stay. The faithful are praying for the Pope’s full recovery but in the event of a papal conclave, 

which occurs during the time between a Pope’s death or resignation and the election of his successor, the Papal Guards are responsible for protecting the conclave. A new documentary “Honor in Armor: Inside the Vatican Swiss Guard” offers an in depth look into the Guards and their history including the time when Adolf Hitler and the Nazis were plotting to kidnap the Pope. The film’s executive producers Mario Paredes and Dr. Ramon Tallaj, the founder of SOMOS Community Care, have also worked with the Vatican for over a decade on creating health equity for the underserved in NYC. https://somoscommunitycare.org 

Peter Thomas Roth’s Mother Turns 102 

Skincare mogul Peter Thomas Roth hired a private jet to take his mother, Carole Roth, to Las Vegas to celebrate her 102nd birthday with 17 family members and Julia Lemigova, a Real Housewives of Miami star. The festivities started off at Chippendales, where Carole received two lap dances that were so racy they got banned from TikTok. The lucky birthday girl was spotted gambling at the Wynn until 2 am and won $1,500. The group, including her five great-grandchildren, also took in the Michael Jackson show. Carole was recognized everywhere she went on the strip from her work as a model on QVC, where she uses her son’s Retinol Fusion PM on her perfect legs. As a present, Roth gave his mother her very first Birken bag, making her longtime dream come true. https://peterthomasroth.com 

Jean Shafiroff & The Red Cross 

Philanthropist Jean Shafiroff asked guests at her birthday party to donate to the American Red Cross. The birthday girl wore four different gowns including ones by Carolina Herrera, Victor dE Souza, and Malan Breton. Jean, famous for never revealing her age, quipped, “It’s a security question.” Guests, sipping on the bubbly rose Aphrodise, included, Sex and the City author Candace Bushnell, Jon Ledecky, the owner of the New York Islanders, the Consul General of Italy to the United Nations Fabrizio di Michele, NYT writer Ruth LaFerla, Lucia Hwong Gordon, hair guru Chaz Dean, dermatologist Dr. Howard Sobel, AD 100 designer TC Chou, divorce attorneys Martha Cohen Stine and Harriet Newman Cohen, comedian D’yan Forest, gallerist Isabelle Bscher, top plastic surgeon Dr. Bianca Molina and her aide de camp Erica Kulka, lawyers Arthur Aidala and Marianne Bertuna, Jason T. Busch, Maryanne Grisz, Cyril Verdavainne, and fashion designers Julia Haart, Victor dE Souza, CD Greene, Nabys Vielman, Ron Dyce, and Fern Clausius. https://redcross.org

Check out the complete Social Life Magazine issue here.  Read more latest events and gossip at Couri’s Columns. 

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Make Father’s Day 2025 unforgettable with these curated gift ideas, from luxe skincare to tech gadgets, tailored for every dad’s style and needs.

June 15, 2025, marks Father’s Day, a special occasion to honor the dads, grandpas, and father figures who make life extraordinary. This year, skip the predictable tie and surprise him with gifts that blend practicality, luxury, and personal touch. From the clinically proven skincare of Peter Thomas Roth to cutting-edge tech and personalized keepsakes, here’s a guide to the best Father’s Day gifts for 2025 that’ll show Dad just how much he means to you.

Why Father’s Day 2025 Matters

Father’s Day is more than a Hallmark holiday—it’s a chance to celebrate the men who’ve shaped us with wisdom, humor, and unwavering support. In 2025, with trends leaning toward self-care and personalized experiences, gifting Dad something that enhances his daily routine or sparks joy is the way to go. Whether he’s a skincare newbie, a tech enthusiast, or a grill master, our curated list has something to make him feel appreciated.

Top Father’s Day Gift Ideas for 2025

1. Peter Thomas Roth Skincare: Elevate His Routine

For the dad who deserves a touch of luxury, Peter Thomas Roth offers clinically proven skincare that delivers results. Born from Peter’s quest to solve his own skin concerns, the brand combines potent ingredients with cutting-edge technology, perfect for men of all skin types. These Father’s Day picks from Peter Thomas Roth are ideal for upgrading his grooming game:

• • Instant FIRMx Eye (1 fl. oz.) – A TikTok-viral eye treatment that temporarily tightens and smooths under-eye bags, giving Dad a refreshed look for those early morning meetings or golf outings. Priced at around $38, it’s a bestseller for a reason.

• • Max Complexion Correction Pads – These exfoliating pads tackle acne, scars, and uneven texture, making them great for dads with oily or combination skin. A pack of 60 pads costs about $48 and is sold every minute worldwide.

• • Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream – A lightweight moisturizer that locks in hydration for up to 72 hours, perfect for dads who want soft, healthy skin without a heavy feel. Expect to spend around $52.

    

Why it’s perfect: Peter Thomas Roth’s men’s skincare line, available at retailers like Ulta and Sephora, is formulated for easy, effective routines—ideal for dads who value results over fuss. Bundle these for a luxe gift set under $150.

2. Tech Gadgets: Smart and Sleek

For the tech-savvy dad, 2025’s gadgets offer innovation and style. Consider these:

• Apple AirPods Pro 3 – With advanced noise cancellation and spatial audio, these earbuds are perfect for his commute or workouts. Priced at ~$249, they’re a premium pick.
• Ember Smart Mug 2 – Keeps his coffee at the perfect temperature for hours. At $129, it’s a thoughtful gift for the dad who savors his brew.

Why it’s perfect: Tech gifts combine utility with a modern edge, ensuring Dad stays connected and comfortable.

3. Personalized Keepsakes: Sentimental and Unique

Add a personal touch with gifts that tell a story:

• Custom Leather Wallet – Engrave his initials or a heartfelt message on a high-quality leather wallet from brands like Etsy. Prices range from $40-$80.
• Photo Book – Create a memory-filled photo book with services like Shutterfly. Starting at $20, it’s a budget-friendly way to capture family moments.

Why it’s perfect: Personalized gifts show thoughtfulness, making Dad feel truly special.

4. Outdoor Gear: For the Adventurous Dad

If he loves the great outdoors, equip him with gear that matches his passion:

• YETI Tundra 45 Cooler – Keeps drinks cold for days, ideal for camping or tailgating. Priced at ~$300, it’s a durable investment.
• Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket – Lightweight and warm, perfect for hiking or chilly evenings. Expect to spend around $199.

Why it’s perfect: These gifts fuel his adventures, blending functionality with rugged style.

5. Gourmet Treats: For the Foodie Dad

Satisfy his palate with culinary delights:

• Harry & David Gift Basket – Packed with artisanal cheeses, meats, and chocolates, starting at $60. Great for a Father’s Day barbecue.
• MasterClass Subscription – Gives him access to cooking classes from chefs like Gordon Ramsay. A year’s membership costs $120.

Why it’s perfect: Foodie gifts offer indulgence and learning, appealing to dads who love to cook or snack.

Why Choose Peter Thomas Roth for Father’s Day?

Peter Thomas Roth stands out for Father’s Day 2025 because it caters to men who may not prioritize skincare but will appreciate its impact. The brand’s roots in Hungarian spa traditions, combined with modern science, ensure products like the Cucumber Gel Mask (soothing for post-shave irritation, ~$55) or Potent-C Power Serum (brightens skin, ~$98) deliver visible results. Available at QVC or Dermstore, these gifts elevate his routine while fitting budgets from $30 to $100.

Father’s Day 2025 Gift Tips

• • Know His Interests: Tailor gifts to his hobbies—skincare for the polished dad, tech for the gadget lover.
  • Shop Early: Father’s Day sales at retailers like Macy’s or Target start in May, offering discounts on Peter Thomas Roth and more.

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• Add a Personal Note: A handwritten card makes any gift more meaningful.

Make Father’s Day 2025 Unforgettable

This Father’s Day, go beyond the ordinary with gifts that reflect Dad’s unique personality. Whether it’s the rejuvenating power of Peter Thomas Roth’s Instant FIRMx Eye, a smart mug for his morning coffee, or a custom wallet that carries your love, these ideas ensure he feels celebrated. Shop now at PeterThomasRoth.com or major retailers to snag deals before June 15, 2025.

Follow Peter Thomas Roth on social media for Father’s Day gift inspiration and check out their Gifts for Him collection for exclusive bundles.

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In a world where individuality reigns supreme, skincare has evolved beyond mere routine—it’s become a powerful act of agency skincare. This movement is about taking control of your skin’s narrative, making informed choices, and curating a regimen that reflects your unique needs and values. Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all solutions; today’s skincare enthusiasts are empowered to design their own paths to radiant skin, with brands like Peter Thomas Roth leading the charge through innovative, personalized solutions.

What Is Agency Skincare?

Agency skincare is the practice of actively shaping your skincare journey with intention and knowledge. It’s about understanding your skin type, researching ingredients, and selecting products that align with your lifestyle and ethical priorities—whether that’s sustainability, cruelty-free formulations, or cutting-edge technology. This approach rejects passive consumption of beauty trends and instead champions self-awareness and decision-making.

For example, someone with sensitive skin might dive into the science of niacinamide to soothe inflammation, while another person might prioritize vegan serums to reflect their values. Brands like Peter Thomas Roth embody this ethos by offering targeted products such as the Potent-C Power Serum, which allows users to address specific concerns like uneven skin tone with a high concentration of vitamin C, empowering them to take charge of their skin’s health. Agency skincare is deeply personal, celebrating the freedom to choose what works for you.

The Tools of Empowerment

The rise of agency skincare has been fueled by unprecedented access to information and innovation. Social media platforms like Tik Tok have become hubs for skincare enthusiasts to share tips, review products, and discuss the latest research. Dermatologists and chemists are demystifying complex ingredients, making it easier for consumers to understand what’s in their serums and moisturizers.

Technology also plays a pivotal role. AI-driven apps analyze skin concerns via selfies, recommending tailored products. Brands like Peter Thomas Roth offer customizable formulations, such as the Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream, which provides intense hydration for those who need it most, allowing users to tweak their routines for specific goals like hydration or brightening. These tools empower individuals to make data-driven decisions, transforming skincare into a science of self-expression.

Why Agency Skincare Matters

Taking charge of your skincare fosters a deeper connection to self-care. It’s not just about achieving a flawless complexion; it’s about the confidence that comes from knowing you’re making choices that honor your body and values. Agency skincare also challenges the beauty industry’s traditional gatekeeping, encouraging brands to be transparent about their ingredients and processes.

Moreover, this movement is inclusive. People of all ages, genders, and skin types are embracing agency skincare, breaking down outdated stereotypes about who gets to prioritize their skin. From teenagers battling acne to mature adults targeting fine lines with products like Peter Thomas Roth’s Instant FirmX Eye for visible firming, everyone is invited to take the reins.

How to Embrace Agency Skincare

Ready to take control? Here are practical steps to start your agency skincare journey:

1. Know Your Skin: Identify your skin type (oily, dry, combination, sensitive) and concerns (acne, hyperpigmentation, aging). Online quizzes or dermatologist consultations can help.

2. Research Ingredients: Learn about powerhouse ingredients like retinol, hyaluronic acid, or vitamin C. Platforms like X offer real-time insights from users and experts.

3. Choose Ethically: Seek brands that align with your values, whether it’s eco-friendly packaging or inclusive shade ranges for tinted SPF.

4. Experiment Thoughtfully: Test new products one at a time to monitor how your skin responds. Keep a skincare journal to track progress.

5. Leverage Technology: Use apps or quizzes from brands to personalize your routine. Subscription services can deliver curated products to your door.

The Future of Agency Skincare

As the beauty industry evolves, agency skincare is poised to grow. Expect more brands to offer modular products, where consumers mix and match components to suit their needs. Biotechnology may introduce lab-grown ingredients tailored to individual DNA profiles. Meanwhile, communities on platforms like X will continue to drive transparency, holding brands accountable and sharing knowledge.

Ultimately, agency skincare is about more than beauty—it’s about owning your story. By curating a routine that’s uniquely yours, you’re not just caring for your skin; you’re celebrating your autonomy. So, grab that serum, read that ingredient list, and take charge. Your skin, your rules.

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Skincare Mogul’s Mom Celebrates 102 in Style with Vegas Extravaganza

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Las Vegas lit up brighter than ever as skincare titan Peter Thomas Roth whisked his mother, Carole Roth, to Sin City via private jet for her 102nd birthday. Joined by 17 family members and Real Housewives of Miami star Julia Lemigova, Carole’s milestone celebration was a dazzling mix of glamour, grit, and good fortune.

The party kicked off with a bang at Chippendales, where the centenarian-plus-two enjoyed not one, but two lap dances—so steamy they were promptly banned from TikTok. Unfazed, Carole took her luck to the Wynn, where she played 3-card poker until 2 a.m., pocketing a cool $1,500 in winnings. Surrounded by her five great-grandchildren and the rest of the crew, she also caught Michael Jackson ONE, soaking in the King of Pop’s magic.

Carole, a former QVC model, turned heads everywhere on the Strip, her flawless legs—thanks to her son’s Retinol Fusion PM—earning her star treatment. Fans couldn’t get enough of the radiant matriarch, who’s clearly mastered the art of aging gracefully. The cherry on top? Peter gifted his mom her first Birkin bag, fulfilling a lifelong dream and adding a touch of luxury to an already unforgettable trip.

From private jets to poker chips, Carole Roth proved 102 is just a number when you’ve got family, flair, and a little Vegas sparkle on your side.

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You are probably familiar with Peter Thomas Roth, the top-selling skin care brand sold at Sephora and Ulta stores worldwide, a favorite on QVC, and beloved by celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Margot Robbie, and Taraji P. Henson.  What you may not realize, however, is that Peter Thomas Roth is not just a brand—he’s a real person. In fact, it is the largest privately owned skin care company in the United States. Who is the man behind the skin care empire?

Family Tradition

A native New Yorker, Peter Thomas Roth is a child of Hungarian immigrants whose family owned and operated spa resorts, so skin care is an inherent part of his heritage. When he launched his own company in 1993, many of his formulas were based on the muds and minerals found in Hungarian thermal springs. Roth started the line because he’d always had skin issues. While working in his father’s jewelry factory after graduating from Wharton, he spent evenings toying with skin care formulas. “I was always going to the dermatologist. I was always getting facials; I had very active acne, so I just dived into it,” Roth says.

Made in USA

Peter Thomas Roth Clinical Skin Care produces all its anti-aging and anti-acne products using the highest-quality ingredients at its own facilities in the U.S. “I started with other people making the products, and I wasn’t getting anywhere,” Roth says. “So, we opened our own lab, manufacturing facility, and distribution center.” The brand quickly became popular at luxury spas, and the entire line has been carried at Sephora since it opened in the U.S., in 1998. The cosmetics retailer also stocks the PTR brand in Canada, Mexico, Southeast Asia, and China.

Selena Gomez’s Viral Social Media Post

 The enduring popularity of Peter Thomas Roth skin care products is no mystery: they work. Social media posts featuring the brand’s products often go viral. Selena Gomez’s morning grooming ritual, which includes the 24K Gold Eye Patches, has been wildly popular with her 42 million TikTok followers. “It was amazing. It garnered a lot of views,” says Roth, noting that the video was unsolicited, and they did not give Gomez the product.

TikTok 50 million Users

Another delightful surprise came when an unknown 54-year-old hospital worker, TikTok user  @trinidad1967, posted a video showing the incredible results the Instant FirmX Eye Tightener had on her undereye bags. A whopping 50 million users have watched her video, she’s since appeared on national television, garnered 186,000 followers, and the brand now sends her products. The company sold out of that product everywhere within hours. “It’s been trending like crazy, all from a TikTok. It’s the number one eye treatment product in America,” says Roth. peterthomasroth.com

Two Sons & a Family Business

Roth, who lives in Manhattan, is a divorced father of two sons, with whom he is very close. Both recently celebrated their graduations from the Wharton School at the same time, in 2022, since Ryan, the oldest, finished in 2020 when graduation ceremonies were halted amid the pandemic. “We went back two weeks in a row, and everyone’s officially graduated,” says the proud dad. Recently, Ryan joined his father’s company. Brendan, the younger son, has taken a job in finance.

Philanthropy in the Hamptons

While Mr. Roth is considered an eligible bachelor around town, he keeps a low profile on the social scene, mainly supporting charities with which he’s long been associated, including his friend Denise Rich’s Angel Ball for cancer research, and the Rita Hayworth Gala for Alzheimer’s, founded by Princess Yasmin Aga Khan, whom he met while skiing in Utah years ago. In July, he attended the Polo Classic in the Hamptons, where, in 2021 he purchased a “cute little cottage” in an idyllic setting complete with dock and jet boat. “It looks like Golden Pond; you can see the deer and rabbits.”

Miami, Art Collector

He also has an apartment in Miami, where his mother lives, and he’s able to spend more time there now that he’s an empty nester and remote work has become feasible.

In recent years Roth began collecting art. Among his acquisitions are an Andy Warhol painting of a Studio 54 VIP ticket, in all black, and another by Damien Hirst, on which the artist signed “Happy Birthday” to Roth on the back of the canvas.

Jewelry Line

While running his ever-growing company, Roth spent his spare time dabbling in jewelry design, just for fun. “Some people like to play golf or tennis, or play cards; I don’t, so jewelry was like my hobby,” he explains. His Ribbon & Reed collection, inspired by the Metropolitan Museum of art, where he spent many youthful hours, debuted in 2016.

In gold and silver, the line consists of classic, simple, modern pieces for women and men that will still look good in 20 years. “That was the goal, to just do clean and modern with a little kick of the past,” says Roth. peterthomasrothjewelry.com

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