Through the years, Eli's Aunt Minda took him on grand shopping excursions to Madison Avenue, Worth Avenue and the Via Condotti. Eli developed a taste for the finer things in life: Italian loafers, Hermes ties, and bespoke blazers from Jeyrman Street. Luigi perfected his style sporting Swarovsk crystal collars, exquisite coats and sweaters and napping on the most luxurious of beds. Now, the all grown-up Eli has gathered simply stunning canine accessories just a click away here or at his boutique in Warrenton, Virginia, where Luigi III holds court.
Eli began his dog career at the age of seven, collecting stray dogs in the neighborhood. He trained them to do astonishing tricks. With his father’s encouragement, he chose to focus on showing dogs. Being young, Eli had many mentors to guide him. At the age of 15, Eli was approached by the celebrated professional handler Vernelle Hartman Kendrick. Eli became her assistant, spending countless days learning structure, balance, movement, conditioning and grooming. At the shows he assisted in handling her string of champion show Poodles.
Eli’s interest in show dogs led him into the world of show horses. In his mid-twenties, Eli successfully rode and showed hunters on the horse show circuit. Meanwhile, Eli refined his knowledge in art, architecture, interiors, houses, gardens, and antiques. With this discriminating sense of design, grandeur and elegance Eli gravitated to the world of exclusive and distinctive canine accessories.
Eli and his partner, Robert now live at Argyle, a great circa 1759 house filled with art and antiques and a bevy of Norfolk Terriers.
