The List: Suzanne Rogers’s favourite things
The List: Suzanne Rogers’s favourite things
Suzanne Rogers—Toronto’s sparkliest glitter girl, a fashion week aficionado and the wife of cable scion Edward—shares the 10 things she can’t live without.
See her picks >>
Read previous editions of The List >>
So as Rogers is laying off people at City television and elsewhere, it is really interesting to read about this stereotypical socialite who wastes thousands on expensive purses and generally talks as if she has the IQ of a gnat. If this is Toronto Life’s idea of an exemplary woman I think you need to look beyond the “Sparkle” of mindless consumption and really find someone truly interesting in a real way. All you media types are fearful of ending up being owned by these twits and are overly obsequious to them. Surely you can find someone who has accomplished something in her life other than marrying into a rich family!
Whenever I see a photo of this woman I think “Gee, Canada does have its very own version of Marla Maples!”
This is a spoof, right? No? Okay.
I just want to know why in every picture of her in the society pages she has the exact same look of wide-eyed surprise every time. Someone who has everything can’t be startled by much, can she?
Janet McIntosh – Your obvious jealousy & covetous tone is just too transparent…
It would be interesting to know how much time and money you have personally given to charities in this country and city? It is mind boggling when we have such good people putting their name out there to get recognition for charities and raising money – there are always spiteful fools who have stupid uneducated, unqualified comments. The fact that Mrs. Rogers did marry well is a benefit to all the charities she supports. It is you who has concentrated on the wrong things.
Mrs. Rogers references her family and her charitable work in the article-did you miss that or did you read something totally different?
There are many socialites in this city who do very little except attend galas and do nothing. she is far from sterotypical.
Sometimes it’s too easy to pick on people in the limelight and to put them down categorically. I choose to listen to, and read about Suzanne Rogers on a deeper level of understanding. It is obvious that she loves children and, as a parent, wishes for more time with them before they all-too-soon become adults. What parent does not have this same wish?
Clearly, she is a woman who appreciates beautiful things such as Hermes Birkin bags which, by the way, are hand-crafted by artisans. The production of the Birkin bag translates into weeks of labour and, in my opinion, deserves every penny that the item costs. In a world where few things are hand-crafted any more, it is a blessing that there remain people who would provide economic support to these persons/industries.
Being an avowed fashion lover myself and appreciating the time it takes couturiers and couturières to create one-of-a-kind pieces, I completely respect Suzanne Rogers’ love for fashion. She has also given her support to local, Canadian, fashion talent such as Greta Constantine and Kim Ironmonger.
After seeing Suzanne Rogers on breakfast television this morning, it is clear that she supports creativity in this world and is constantly evolving into a life that, through fashion, has become something wonderful for herself and is making a difference for children in Toronto, Africa and the Dominican Republic. She is focusing on Toronto and providing it with an economic boost by bringing Oscar de la Renta to town. Not only will this fashion Icon/event be beneficial to the economic base of Toronto but, more importantly, the event’s primary goal will be to raise money for children foundations as well as Oscar de la Renta’s charity in the Dominican Republic.
Suzanne Rogers has the means to organize and fund events such as these, but more importantly, she has a big heart and the selflessness to ‘give back.’ Mrs. Rogers speaks passionately about doing more for children and spends time reading to them at Sick Kids Hospital. As Oscar de la Renta said this morning “Suzanne Rogers is a woman who’s first preocupation is not her hair and nails, but to work for an extraordinary cause.” She is involved with charities such as the ONEXONE foundation and has dedicated her time, efforts and, yes, an enormous amount of funds to causes in which she believes.
Some people are never satisfied with what others do to make the world a better place. Suzanne Rogers is doing what she loves and, at the same time, is giving back her time, effort and wealth to this world. Who are we to critisize her likes, passions and her many accomplishments. Mrs. Rogers is a strong and intelligent woman who loves fashion and, through this passion, will continue to help so many children in need.
I truly admire her accomplishments.
BRIDGET & VOLIVE, Contracts coming up???
Talk about TRANSPARENT……
I’m a marketing guy who regularly deals with Canadian insecurity, self-doubt and jealousy. I see this pattern repeat itself here in some of the comments. If Suzanne wasn’t a beautiful woman would these thoughtless remarks be coming out of such obviously jealous mouths?
I’m proud that we have this world-class ambassador, working through world-leading fashion, to help world-critical causes such as child hunger and education. Can’t we recognize and applaud the unique beauty and value of this remarkable woman for what she imparts to the Canadian identity?
I can’t think of another “well-married” woman in this country who gives what she does of her time and heart. Be glad that she uses her social status to the benefit of kids everywhere! I wish we had another dozen like her, but alas, that kind of character and the will to use it for good causes is all too rare in this overly cautious and self-pitying country. Let’s all grow up and recognize a true Canadian jewel.
The 90’s called. They’d like their Conspicuous Consumption back.
Hey she’s using her status and wealth to do good. She’s more than a lady who lunches. Who cares if she spends $, Big deal! We as a society have become petty and jealous, she has been blessed to be able to have a “job” to help others, unlike many of rich who just sit back and write a cheque.
The Truth about Suzanne Rogers
After reading all of the catty assumptions written in response to Suzannes List, let me destroy your jealous, fictional thoughts with the truth. ( I do apologize, I realize the truth isnt near as much fun to read or gossip about for some people )
I had the pleasure of working for the Rogers family in their cottage for many years. Suzanne Rogers is one of the most thoughtful, caring and generous people I have ever met … as is her husband Edward and his parents Ted and Loretta Rogers. The Rogers family is the most kind, loving, “real” family that I have ever met.
I must say first of all that there are many references to Suzannes family in her list that it would have to be the most catty, jealous and uninformed people that would be able to pick that apart and find something wrong with it.
There are certain comments I would like to respond to directly,
“So as Rogers is laying off people at City television and elsewhere, it is really interesting to read about this stereotypical socialite who wastes thousands on expensive purses”
Now, my question to you Janet McIntosh, have you ever been thankful to the Rogers family for creating such an empire able to employ so many Canadians?
In regards to the shopping reference, during times of economic hardship,if people who are priveliged enough to still have money stop spending, what would happen to our economy?
“generally talks as if she has the IQ of a gnat”
how many conversations have you had with Suzanne to come to that conclusion? I can answer that myself, not one, because anyone who has had the privelige of speaking with Mrs Rogers would definitly never make that statement. She is a very intelligent,educated,knowledgable and well spoken woman.
“Surely you can find someone who has accomplished something in her life other than marrying into a rich family!”
February 18, 2010 at 9:31 am | by janet mcIntosh
If you had done any research at all before deciding to berate this article you would know that not only is Suzanne educated,and runs her own business,she dedicates a tremendous amount of time and money to numerous charities and organizations. She has numerous commendable accomplishments that perhaps you should spend some time researching so that you are knowledgeable on the subject your speaking about.
If you pick up any glamour or gossip magazine to read such “lists” written by A list celebs I think you would be hard pressed to find ANY reference to family but instead would be reading a list naming off their 10 fave designers or expensive vehicles they’ve recently bought.
Is it because she is a beautiful,successful,educated Canadian woman that we feel the need to criticize? I would expect that as Canadians we should be proud of that. As a Canadian woman I am. I think she is inspirational.
If she showed up at events not wearing the latest fashions and looking impeccable Im sure you would be criticizing that as well. That is pathetic, lets give credit where credit is due.
This is a young successful Canadian family who married for love and who’s first priority is, without question, FAMILY. It is obvious to anyone who has ever been in their presence. They are a very loving couple who dote on each other and their children and spend as much time with them as the average parent. And in their “spare time” they attend charity events to donate generous amounts of their time and money to families and others in need.
“the fact that Mrs Rogers did marry well is a benefit to all of the charities she supports” ,
yes that statement is true, but i detest the implication that because Edward has money Suzanne “married well”. I can tell you that both Mr and Mrs Rogers “married well” and it has nothing to do with money. To see them interact with one another,the way they look at each other and treat each other with the utmost respect it is clear that they married well because they married their best friend, something that most people dream of.
Instead of wasting time responding to these comments directly, let me tell you what Suzanne Rogers is really like. Not because someone told me, not because I read it somewhere, or I assumed it after seeing her picture, but because I have seen it first hand, working in her home.
I live in a small community where the Rogers family has a cottage ( and has since Ted Rogers was young ). Instead of bringing up contractors and staff from the city,whos work they already know, the Rogers choose to hire and employ local companies and people. They employ a large part of our community, during a time when without families as thoughtful as them, our unemployment rate would be much higher. Not only do they employ locals in our community, they shop locally as well, yet another way to help keep our small community flourishing. And I assure you no where around here sells Hermes or Gucci.
I used to have the privilege of doing some shopping for Suzanne, which for a small town girl like me, was quite exciting! And I can tell you, she doesnt shop by brand name or price, she buys what she likes including prints or antiques from local consignment stores. As well as art and decor created by local artists.
WEll aware the work is seasonal,the Rogers family keep their house employees working for as long as they can,pay them well,and also provide them with a bonus at the end of the season or at Christmas time. Something not required or even heard of by most companies anymore. Something worth more than a bonus, as a staff member of the Rogers family you are constantly thanked and appreciated, thats a rarity at any job these days. Working for them is a job that you truly look forward to going to each day.
As well to be staff in the Rogers home, they make you feel like family. They include their staff in family outings and recreational activities. The staff is always included for meals ( for which the leftovers of the gourmet meals are always sent home for the staff or their families )
Suzanne is generous, compassionate, thoughtful woman in every possible way, wether it be going through her closets or decor to give away things to her staff (I had never had a pair of Chanel sunglasses in my life! :D) inviting locals over to enjoy family fireworks, or just inquiring on how you and your family are doing.
My point is, the negative things written above about Suzanne Rogers, are NOT Suzanne Rogers. They are just some jealous,catty comments and assumptions that bored people decided to make about a beautiful,educated,generous woman.
If I were to tell you about Suzanne Rogers, the real Suzanne Rogers, I would say she is an incredible Mother and wife, whos family is her priority. She is kind hearted,generous and thoughtful and devotes as much time as possible to outside charities and causes. She is an incredibly beautiful person both inside and out. And yes, she also has INCREDIBLE fashion sense.
The Rogers family is one of the most loving,functional,real families I have ever seen in my life, and I am honoured to have been a part of the Rogers staff family and to have gotten to know them the way I did.
Sincerely,
Tressa Rowen
Does Ms. S Rogers help breast cancer victims with metastatic cancer now in my lungs-and bones…
My Husband a Doctor in Toronto walked out on me and refuses to help me-he is obviously tired of the cancer and the woman I once was I am not-BUT he just does not care!
I am unable to get help in Toronto-with no money and the condo that he will stop paying-putting me on the streets..
I once had an amazing life helping others was involved with Warner Brothers, was an Engineer at Bell, had my own money and my own place-I met my Husband and 28 years later he just does not care..I worked with Him -I set up the Private Practice at the old Medical Arts Building-I did everything-I took care of his 2 young daughters-now 29 and 31. I worked 14 hour days, week-ends and holidays I cared for the two girls-like they were my own even spending most of the money I had left from Bell on these 2 girls. My Husband is an Alcoholic-it has become worse-and smokes again..BUT mostly now he has something to prove to give me nothing and wait for me to die-these were his words as the police took him away.
The police do not like coming too often and that is what I was told by a policeman-they are not present to hold my hand-WHEN I AM TOLD TO CALL THE ADVISE LINE I DO NOT ASK FOR THE POLICE TO COME-they automatically come-but I will not call the police again!
Is there really no one like Ms. Rogers who might help another woman in distress? I would do my best to return any money or whatever once I die and ensure that when I die the money coming to me will be given to anyone who might help-I PROMISE and I NEVER BREAK A PROMISE!
Please help me, Elise Irene Whitton
I fought for 3 years to get a lawyer -I got 2 legal aid lawyers both unable to help me as it was no an easy case-I gave up after over 3 years-my Husband claimed poverty and moved in but was not here to help me-no WAS I EVER AN IDIOT-he was making money without paying for his apartment-so now he has a better place and spent the last 9 months abusing me emotionally,if there are obvious bruises the police will help-they do not see the broken parts under the skin.
PLEASE, if there is a possibility to have the old Toronto the good help a woman at 55 entering the 15th year of cancer in all my body-is there anyone at all that helps people like myself?
Suzanne is the epitome of conspicuous consumption, she only uses the charity angle to promote herself. She spends more money on ridiculous outfits in a month then a working family makes in a year. Since when did 1980’s conspicuous consumption come back in vogue?
This women is an embarrassment to all women!
How pathetic that she has dollar bills clogging up her senses.
Maybe she should practice modesty and not flaunt shamelessly her wealth and use the needy as an excuse to do it. She is tacky, and proof positive that money can’t buy you class!
Wow. Look at all the people defending this thing. Oh don’t you doubt I know plenty about this woman. People use the words tacky, selfish, greedy. Well, you have no clue how much you have underestimated this ticking time bomb. You think she likes kids? Her daughter hates her. If you only had any clue about this woman. No she is not educated. She is not elegant. She is every negative thing you can think of. Only the best for Teddy’s son. Watch, you’ll be seeing plenty more of her in the future when the manure embraces the fan.
Phil, you are one sick guy – not to mention obviously fanatically obsessed with this woman. Yes, she better watch her back with someone like you. You probably have a voodoo doll with her face on it; all the while wishing you were her…you seriously have some major problems, I doupt she even knows who you are…envy and jealous are such horrible things..