We caught up Veronica H. Speck, the founder of VHS Ventures, a global luxury communications consultancy with clients ranging from Michelin Star chefs and interior designers to fine jewellery, fragrance and fashion brands.
My car of choice
A vintage Nash-Healy. It was the brainchild of an American and Brit who met on the RMS Queen Elizabeth ocean liner, and assembled by Pininfarina in Italy. A racing version finished third in the 1952 Le Mans 24-hour race. In one of my favourite scenes in the film Sabrina, William Holden picks up Audrey Hepburn in a classic 1953 white version after her return to New York from Paris.
For sentimental reasons, a classic Jaguar as it reminds me of my grandfather. Ferrari was one of my first clients, and I must say their new Roma coupe is quite beautiful. I am very much looking forward to attending the Concourse d’ Elegance next weekend in Pebble Beach to see the unique and rare models.
My favourite holiday destination
Somewhere new! I love discovering places I have not been before, and hope to never ‘summer’ at the same destination or locale. I am leaving for Brazil this week and visiting Iguaçu Falls, Inhotim Art Museum, and some hotels and landmarks by Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer, which I am quite excited about.
My gadget I can’t live without
Unfortunately, my iPhone. It is home to my camera, directions, transportation, wallet, photos, email, internet, address book, notes, calendar, and more. Although, nothing makes me happier than when it dies (which is quite frequent to be honest).
My go to fashion brand
In addition to my wonderful clients, I like to support international and emerging designers – recently Markarian and Siliva Tcherassi. A Maison d’ Etto silk scarf is a constant as is my personalised signet ring by Hattie Banks.
My airline of choice
Perhaps a little Cessna as I am aiming to complete my pilot’s licence this year or a sea plane as it means an island getaway!
My favourite watch brand
My classic Cartier Tank is a constant companion on my left wrist. I bought it for myself for a special occasion at the flagship on 5th Avenue in New York City, and had it engraved with one of my favourite poems by the French poet Guillaume Apollinaire. Although it was originally designed to resemble WWII tanks, it reminds me of a much lighter day. The ‘Pepsi’ GMT-Master with the red and blue bezel as well as the ‘Lady Rolex’ will always remind me of my parents as they sport matching ones.
My favourite restaurant
I had the pleasure of working with chef Daniel Boulud and enjoying weekly (sometimes daily) meals and meetings in the legendary Skybox above Restaurant Daniel in New York City. Not exactly a restaurant, but a priceless experience.
Another recent memorable meal was at Enrique Olvera’s restaurant Criollo in Oaxaca, Mexico. I prefer it to Pujol! You can also spend the night at the well-appointed surrounding Casa.
My guilty pleasure
I am a bit of a bon vivant and probably have many guilty pleasures, but I also have a constitution to not feel guilty. Champagne, chocolate – everything in moderation…even moderation!
My favourite way to give back
I try to always work with at least one non-profit or charity or recommend that my clients partner with a cause and donate a percentage of sales. I am currently working with an incredible design collective, Studio Lél, based out of Peshawar, Pakistan that supports Afghan refugees and enables them to practise their artisanal craft of pietra dura. The end result is impossibly beautiful inlay furniture and works of stone.
