The colors (black, grey, cream) you have chosen are nice but I don't think it's quite there yet:
1. The design is not as elegant as I think it could be. I don't think the left nav has to be buttons -- text would be more elegant for the links. The buttons are too big and too bright.
2. The logo needs some work; I think it's hard to read especially with the drop shadow.
3. Try a different fade for the flash slide show. Something more simple would be more appropriate.
Just my opinions -- hope they are helpful. I think the site needs to look clean and professioanl to achieve the elegance your client wants. Good luck!

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