The Curate Project

Selective and Collective | Curating what we eat, drink, drive, wear and do.

about

Welcome to The Curate Project

I’m Brock Elliott, and I love paying close attention to the details—the little details, the smallest of details. I believe the smallest details tell the biggest stories. Whether it’s what I wear, drive, sip, or serve—every choice is intentional. A friend once asked, “Do you ever take a day off?” referring to my outfit. The answer: no. Even my pajamas are chosen with purpose.Here’s the question I always ask:
If this item I’m wearing, driving, or sipping could talk behind my back… what would it say? Everything we choose is a representation. Together, they tell a story.Every detail is a reflection of who we are and what we value, whether we realize it or not. When we curate with intention, we create a narrative that feels authentic and unforgettable.Let’s make it a good one.

What You’ll Find Here
1. Style inspiration from the well-dressed and well-traveled
2. Food and drink insights from chefs, bartenders, and tastemakers
3. Tools and gear that blend function with form: Planes and Porsches
4. Stories behind the choices—why they matter and what they say about us

Why The Curate Project Exists
This space is dedicated to showcasing the power of thoughtful living. Through curated selections and refined recommendations, I highlight the items, experiences, and aesthetics that elevate everyday moments into something memorable.

Thanks for visiting The Curate Project—my personal space to share a curated collection of photography, apparel, rarities, and vintage collectibles. This project is all about celebrating craftsmanship, history, and the stories behind the objects we love.
Your support means the world. Thanks for being here and for sharing in these passions with me.— BE

STORIES

EAT | DRINK | DRIVE | WEAR | LIVE

Wool, Wax & Weather
Jacket Season

WEAR

There’s something about early October that makes me reach for a jacket before I even check the weather. The air’s got that edge to it...

• READ

Behind the Bar
A Night to Remember

DRINK

Some nights, you throw on a tux, step behind the bar, and pour your heart into the glasses...

• READ

Zephyr Fedor
1986 VW Bus

DRIVE

Zephyr’s 1986 VW Microbus is a rolling tribute to his father’s dream and a symbol of adventure, freedom, and cherished family memories.

• READ

CURATE STORIES

EAT | DRINK | DRIVE | WEAR | LIVE

Wool, Wax & Weather | Jacket Season

There’s a moment in early October—just before the leaves fully turn—when the air carries a quiet insistence. It’s not cold, not yet. But it’s cool enough to make you reach instinctively for a jacket. Not out of necessity, but out of ritual. The kind of ritual that marks the shift in season, the slowing of pace, the soft golden light that lingers a little longer in the afternoon.This time of year, I rotate between three jackets. Each one tells a story. Each one feels like a companion to the season.

First, the Ashby Barbour. Waxed cotton, rugged charm, and a scent that recalls damp woods and distant bonfires. It’s a jacket that’s lived—creased, scuffed, and softened by time. I wear it on early walks through the trees, or when the farmer’s market calls before the sun’s fully up. The pockets are purposeful—deep enough for gloves, keys, or a folded map. And the patina? That’s earned. There’s a quiet authority to the Ashby. Waxed cotton, born of British countryside necessity, it’s a jacket that doesn’t shout, but owns the room. It’s dependable, understated, and quietly confident.

Then there’s the Ralph Lauren Rugby Trench. Navy blue with eight silver-toned buttons—structured, tailored, and just dramatic enough to turn heads. It’s the kind of coat that makes you feel composed, even if you’re only stepping out for coffee.This trench is a study in balance—military structure softened by collegiate charm. The navy wool is rich and substantial, with a drape that flatters without constraining. Eight silver-toned buttons march down the front, catching light like polished cufflinks. It’s a coat that commands attention, but never demands it. The silhouette is classic: belted in the back, epaulets, and a vented back that moves with you.It carries the elegance of tradition, with a modern ease that never feels forced. There’s a quiet drama to it, like the final scene of a fall film set in New England.

And finally, the Harris Tweed Blazer. Not outerwear in the strictest sense, but perfect for those crisp, sunlit days when the air is brisk and the mood is reflective. Crafted in the Outer Hebrides, Harris Tweed carries the texture of its origin—rough hills, salt air, and centuries of tradition. Its texture speaks of heritage; its weight, of craftsmanship. The weave is dense and earthy, with flecks of heather and stone that shift in the light. It’s a fabric that feels alive, shaped by hand and weather.I wear it when I want to slow down, to savor the season. It’s thoughtful, nostalgic, and unmistakably autumnal. The blazer’s cut is timeless: tailored but not stiff, with just enough structure to hold its own. The leather buttons lend a touch of academia. This is a jacket for slow days and thoughtful moments, for bookstores and brisk walks, for the kind of fall that invites reflection. Apparently even the NYC subway system...

Jacket season isn’t just about staying warm—it’s about leaning into the shift. The air turns crisp, the light softens in the late afternoon, and the wind picks up just enough to make you reach for a zipper or button. It’s a quiet cue, a seasonal rhythm that invites you to layer with intention.Each morning brings a choice—not just for the weather, but for the mood. Wool or wax, tailored or rugged, each jacket carries its own energy. Jacketing up becomes part of the ritual, a way to meet the day with a sense of place and purpose.And every time I pull one on, I feel more grounded. More ready for whatever fall decides to bring. A little more New York. A little more New England. And yes, a little warmer.

CURATE STORIES

EAT | DRINK | DRIVE | WEAR | LIVE

Behind the Bar | A Night to Remember

Photos by Jonathan Martine @intjmartine

Some nights, you throw on a tux, step behind the bar, and pour your heart into the glasses of sixty of your closest friends. This past April, that’s exactly what Ohene, Mason, and I did. The result? A cocktail soirée that, months later, still feels enchanting.Setting the Scene
Picture a room lit just enough to let shadows dance across the walls. The space felt intimate, a modern speakeasy brought to life. Guests arrived in black tie, each one radiating elegance as they mingled and lingered into the late hours. The air carried an energy that was both refined and effortlessly fun—an atmosphere you wanted to savor.

The Bartenders’ VisionOhene, Mason, and I didn’t just host; we curated an experience. From the dress code to the drink menu, every detail was intentional. Behind the bar, we each brought two signature cocktails to the table, each one a reflection of our personalities:

Mason’s Creations: “Truth Serum” (Tequila, Gran Marnier, Orange Bitters, Activated Charcoal, Lemon Simple Syrup, Lime Juice) and “Revolver” (Bourbon, Coffee Liqueur, Orange Bitters, Burned Orange Peel). Bold, unapologetic, and unforgettable.

Ohene’s Creations: “Song of Solomon” (Gin, Lemon, Lemon Simple Syrup, Butterfly Pea Flowers) and “Verdant Remedy” (Chartreuse, Gin, Maraschino, Lemon, Smoked Rosemary). Poetic, vibrant, and full of life.

My Creations: “A Horse and a Donkey Make a Mule” (Bourbon, Lemon, Maple, Ginger Beer, Toasted Marshmallow) and “Espress Yo’ Self Martini” (Espresso, Vodka, Irish Cream, Amaretto). Playful, bold, and conversation-starting. And you know, of course I was making traditional martinis on the side too.These weren’t just drinks; they were stories in a glass—crafted to spark curiosity and invite connection.

The Night Unfolds
From the first pour to the last guest leaving, the night felt electric. Friends who hadn’t seen each other in a long while reconnected. Strangers became fast friends. Long time friends pushed on. Each cocktail, carefully designed, added its own layer to the evening’s narrative. And as hosts, the greatest reward was seeing how these moments unfolded naturally, without pretense or effort.

Why It Matters
At The Curate Project, we talk often about the significance of objects—clothing, furniture, heirlooms. But some of the most meaningful things we curate are experiences. This night was about more than just cocktails; it was about friendship, creativity, and the joy that comes from bringing people together in a way that feels purposeful.

Closing Thoughts
Looking back, this evening was a highlight of 2024, a moment we’ll carry with us long after the year ends. It reminded me that the best gatherings aren’t about extravagance; they’re about creating a space where people feel seen, connected, and inspired. And on that night in April, I’d say we succeeded.

CURATE STORIES

EAT | DRINK | DRIVE | WEAR | LIVE

Zephyr Fedor | 1986 VW Bus

Photos by Andrew Casebolt @17shotsin

The 1986 VW Microbus: A Timeless Classic with a Personal TouchThe 1986 VW Microbus is more than just a vehicle; it’s an enduring symbol of freedom, adventure, and a bygone era. With its distinctive design, practical features, and cultural significance, the Microbus has become a beloved icon among car enthusiasts and nostalgia seekers alike.Zephyr’s Journey: A Dream Realized
For some, the 1986 VW Microbus represents more than just a cool vintage car—it’s a vessel for fulfilling lifelong dreams. Zephyr’s story is a perfect example. Growing up in Texas, Zephyr listened to his dad talk about wanting to take a classic VW Microbus on a cross-country adventure. But life had other plans, and that dream remained unrealized.Years later, Zephyr finally acquired the iconic bus, not just as a nod to vintage style but as a way to bring his dad’s dream to life. The real magic began when they embarked on their journey from Texas to New York. Along the way, the Microbus became more than just transportation—it turned into a rolling tribute to freedom, adventure, and the bond between father and son.Zephyr’s Microbus, with its retro charm and distinctive split windows, isn’t just cool because it looks great—it’s cool because it embodies the spirit of exploration. It’s a vehicle that invites you to take your time, enjoy the ride, and make memories that last a lifetime. Zephyr even keeps his banjo tucked away inside, ready to strum a tune whenever the mood strikes, adding a soundtrack to their adventures.

What Makes the 1986 VW Microbus Special?The 1986 VW Microbus is instantly recognizable, thanks to its boxy shape, round headlights, and iconic VW logo. The split windows, a hallmark of earlier designs, give the bus its unique, vintage appeal. Inside, the simplicity of the dashboard, vinyl seats, and spacious rear area reflect the vehicle’s practical roots, designed for both comfort and utility.The Microbus’s rear-wheel drive and lightweight design make it surprisingly agile, and despite its modest horsepower, it offers a driving experience that’s both connected and enjoyable. It’s a car that requires you to be present, to savor each shift of the gear, and to appreciate the slower pace of life it encourages.Beyond its mechanical and design features, the Microbus holds a special place in popular culture. It’s a symbol of the 1960s and ’70s counterculture, often associated with freedom, peace, and a laid-back lifestyle. Whether cruising down a highway or parked at a campsite, the Microbus is a vehicle that turns heads and sparks conversations.

The Lasting Appeal of the VW MicrobusFor those like Zephyr, the 1986 VW Microbus is more than just a classic car—it’s a piece of history, a family heirloom, and a symbol of dreams fulfilled. It’s a vehicle that represents a connection to a different time, a slower, more deliberate way of life, and the joy of the open road.Whether you’re drawn to its vintage design, its cultural significance, or the stories it carries, the 1986 VW Microbus continues to captivate and inspire. It’s not just about getting from one place to another—it’s about the journey, the memories made, and the freedom to explore at your own pace.In a world that often feels rushed, the Microbus reminds us to slow down, take in the sights, and appreciate the ride. It’s a timeless classic that will always be cool, no matter how many miles it travels.

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