As president of McCall Associates, the ubiquitous event planning company whose happenings range from local charity auctions to the San Francisco Opera Gala, Stephen Denison has a life that revolves around good food, wine and fun. With exposure to so many temptations, how does he stay in shape? Besides willpower, he rows on Richardson Bay up to four times a week and enjoys Marin’s outdoor lifestyle.
Describe your personal style. I wear jeans or slacks and a sport coat at work, depending on what I’m doing and whom I’m seeing. I don’t have a style; I just wear what’s comfortable. However, if I need to dress up, I ask Mitch and Tom at Gene Hiller for help. They know how to put a look together that’s snazzy.
What are you wearing? A sport coat and slacks, which I consider “school clothes.” But at home, it’s something comfortable such as sweats and a T-shirt and sweater.
Who are your fashion influences? Rick, a buddy of mine, and Mitch and Tom at Gene Hiller.
Where do you love to shop in Marin? I wasn’t aware there’s anywhere else but Gene Hiller.
What is always in your bag/pockets? A lucky shell from Hawaii and my billfold and a few coins.
What is your best cheapo secret? Cashmere sweaters from Lands’ End.
What’s your fashion pet peeve? I don’t have one. I’m too busy thinking about other stuff to notice.
What is your view of Marin style? Erudite. Hip. Sometimes classy, sometimes baggy.
Where do you love to eat in Marin? First choice, Angelino’s in Sausalito. Second choice, Angelino’s. Third choice, Angelino’s.
How do you spend your weekends? Rowing, reading the New York Times, walking Blackie’s into Tiburon, playing canasta, walking down the hill for coffee, and more reading.
Where do you go to pamper yourself? My kitchen counter when my wife is cooking. Invariably she pours me a glass of wine and we end up laughing. Or our backyard.
How would your friends describe you? Patient, intelligent, klutzy, absentminded, loving, curious, thoughtful, pedantic, charming, condescending, generous and impatient (their words, honest).
What was the last book you read and why? The Endurance, about Shackleton’s experience in Antarctica, because I’m going there in a few weeks.
What was the last movie you saw? Hmmm, not sure; you’d have to ask my wife. I think I’d have to admit it was a chick flick, but it might’ve been Kite Runner.
If your life were a movie, what would be your theme song? “At Last”…certainly dedicated to my wife, Shannon.
