Darien, CT January 2023

Lift, Tone and Burn at this town fitness hot spot!

F O O D + B E V E R AG E

M E AL PREP TI PS FO R 2023 A R T S + C U LT U R E

WH EN ART M EETS E XERCISE H E A LTH + W E LLN E S S

WATER WITH A H E ART

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INTRODUCING THE ALL NEW 2023

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January 2023 PUBLISHER

Laura Sabia | laura.sabia@citylifestyle.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

January 2023 Health & Wellness

EDITOR IAL COOR DINATOR

Kristin Burnell | kristin.burnell@citylifestyle.com PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Emma Parente | emma.parente@citylifestyle.com CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Anna Barnes, Kellie Kerwin, Emily Liebert, Cece Reeder CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

For many of us, this time of year is full of excitement. It presents us with a reset, new horizons and goals to pursue.

But for others, January can be a reminder of failed attempts from years past and the burden of expectation that this year will be different.

We approached this issue of Darien Lifestyle from a mindset of not supplying quick fixes to check boxes in the short term but valuing what is sustainable over the long haul. We wanted to provide inspiration for making lasting, realistic, long-term improvements to your physical, emotional and mental health.

When it comes to anything in life - business, finance, food, home and personal health – it’s not what you do some days that move the needle - it’s what you do MOST days. For better or worse!

For instance, taking a vacation every day would be financially and practically unfeasible, but taking a trip a few times a year is realistic. Having a beautiful steak dinner with a few cocktails and creme brulee every night for dinner isn’t best for your health, but doing so once in a while might be fine!

It’s not the sometimes choices we make, it’s the most of the time choices.

So plan the vacation AND work to establish more regular rest in your work week. Join a local fitness community. We have so many great options like pure barre, club sweat and equinox AND enjoy that dessert you’ve been wanting to try at Sole. It’s not what you do some days - it’s what you do most days that will lead to a more peaceful, filling and fabulous 2023.

Here’s to you! We’re rooting for you.

Julia D’Agostino, Megan Mills, Private Portraits by Jen Goldberg

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell AD DESIGNER Mary Albers LAYOUT DESIGNER Eva Tucker

LAURA SABIA, PUBLISHER @DARIENLIFEST YLEMAG

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/DARIENCT |

Proverbs 3:5-6 Darien Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Darien area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Darien Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the

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accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue The Health & Wellness Issue

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F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

14 Meal Prep Tips for 2023

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Lifestyle Letter

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City Scene

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Business Monthly

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Local Experiences

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Culinary Creations

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Must See

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Inspired By

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Local’s Choice

30

Local Limelight

34

Fashion Forward

38

Events

Plus a delicious hearty soup recipe to keep you warm this winter!

18 Fitness Trend: Pure Barre Lift Tone and Burn at this town fitness hot spot!

22 Water with a Heart

Megan Hayes & Kimberly Reilly talk the realization of creating a totally different water brand.

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Megan Mills Pure Barre Darien teachers are styled in cute ‘barre to brunch’ wear by the Darien Sports Shop.

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FO O D + B E V E R AG E

HEA LT H + WELLNES S HEA LT H + WELLNE SS A RTS + C U LT U R E FI T NES S S HO PPI NG

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WALL BEDS

Call (203) 616-5847 for a free design consultation and estimate or visit us online at closetfactory.com Showroom 100 Wooster St., Bethel, CT 06801 Showroom 110 Post Road, Darien, CT 06820 ©2022 Closet Factory. All rights reserved.

the art of organization

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city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

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1-7: The HAYVN HEALTH Summit provided a fun and inspiring afternoon of discovery, connection and learning, by bringing together experiences, trusted experts and women shaping the wellness industry across Fairfield County.

Photography by Abby Cole Photography

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Tag your Instagram photos with @darienlifestylemag

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C I T Y SC E N E

Functionally Driven, Minimally Invasive

COSMETIC DENTISTRY Creating beautiful, healthy smiles with a modern approach and advanced techniques.

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J A N UA RY 2 0 2 3

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Welcome Dr. Gaines-Cardone to Greenwich Point Dermatology!

Dr. Elizabeth Gaines-Cardone is a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in medical and cosmetic dermatology. Her approach to care combines cutting-edge treatments backed by science with a detailed understanding of her patient's needs.

Her medical expertise includes acne and skin cancer screenings, along with diagnosing and managing dermatological conditions. In addition to her interest in medical dermatology, Dr. Gaines is passionate about aesthetics and offers the most innovative techniques in cosmetic dermatology.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/DarienCT

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

Vascular Experts

Where every member of the team knows and deeply cares for you, and the big city benefits of high-tech, innovative concepts and practices of the modern world of medicine.

Personalized vascular care in your community At The Vascular Experts, our desire is to marry the small-town clinic feel of old.

The Vascular Experts:

They don’t just take care of you, they care for you.

Expert vascular care close to home

We are dedicated to serving our richly diverse communities by providing high quality vasular care to all of our patients.

EXPERT

VASCULAR CARE

Jonathan N. Bowman, MD, FACS Board-Certified Vascular Surgeon

Board-Certified Vascular Surgeon and Darien Resident Your Local Office: 85 Old Kings HWY North Darien, CT 06820 (844) 482-7285

Largest Group of Board-Certified Vascular Surgeons in the Country • DVT/Venous Disease/ Varicose Veins • Aneurysm Disease • Peripheral Artery Disease

• Carotid Artery Disease • Hemodialysis Access • Most Insurances Accepted

Spanish Speakers Available at Each of Our Locations CT: Danbury • Darien • Fairfield • Farmington • Manchester • Middletown

New London • Norwich • Old Saybrook • Stamford • Stratford • Watertown

Affiliates NY: Cornwall MA: Brockton RI: Westerly • Wakefield

Call Us at 844-4-VASCULAR (844-482-7285) or visit us at TheVascularExperts.com

J A N UA RY 2 0 2 3

local experiences The best places and things to do in our area.

With another busy year behind us, you owe it to yourself to take a breath, a break, and reset your physical, mental and emotional being. Enjoy these relaxing and rejuvenating local experiences to get you set for the year ahead.

Our Picks to Rest & Recharge SALT CAVE OF DAR IEN: Whether you want to release stress, address a health challenge, or gather with friends, you’ll find Salt Cave of Darien to be inviting, warm and soothing. 555 Post Rd Darien, CT TILLEY POND PAR K: The Pond serves as an oasis from the busy downtown area. This location includes lovely fountains adorning the pond and decorative lights to line the walkways. 38 West Ave, Darien, CT YOGA NIDR A, ENER GY, AND SOUND HEALING WITH NICOLE KIM: Connect with your energy, practice breathwork, and be guided through meditation to tap into your body's natural healing abilities. January 8th 5:00 PM 6:30 PM 121 Park St, New Canaan, CT CHER R Y LAWN PAR K: Relax and enjoy the fresh air with the whole family! Visit the community garden, nature center, playground, fields & tennis courts. 120 Brookside Rd, Darien, CT FIR ST SUNDAY BIR D WALK WITH FR IENDS OF GR EENWICH POINT:

Connect with nature and enjoy a peaceful walk in Greenwich Point Park while under the guidance of knowledgeable local naturalists and birders.

Observe and identify wild birds in their natural surroundings. 11 Tods Driftway, Old Greenwich, CT

Scan for more photos and the full list.

Want to recommend a local experience?

Scan the QR code and message us on Instagram.

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LOCA L E X P E R IE N C E S

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Our team includes the finest NYC clinicians who deliver natural and beautiful results every time. Our providers specialize in routine and advanced injectables as well as Morpheus8 and a wide variety of other laser treatments.

We are passionate about our treatment offerings because we have personally seen what they can do firsthand!

Whether you are seeking body contouring or the latest injectables and advanced laser treatments, we can customize a treatment plan specifically for you.

20% OFF YOUR FIRST SERVICE NOW OPEN IN DARIEN 203.733.0629 | www.luxelevelaesthetics.com | concierge@luxelevelaesthetics.com 6 Thorndal Circle, Darien, Connecticut 06820

Meal Prep Tips for 2023 PLUS A DELICIOUS HEARTY SOUP RECIPE TO KEEP YOU WARM THIS WINTER!

The new year is a great time to take a step back from the hustle and bustle of our regular schedules, reevaluate our routines, and identify areas in our lives in which we can improve. New Year’s resolutions are often met with disappointment come February due to setting unattainable goals without a plan of action. When making goals focusing on health and nutrition, the goals should be sustainable and realistic. Rather than making a general resolution of “I want to eat healthier” or “I want to eliminate ‘junk’ foods,” let's shift our mindset to establish goals like, “I will make half of the grains I eat each day, whole grains,” or “I will include vegetables in two of my meals each day.” These types of goals, known as S.M.A.R.T. goals, are proven to be more successful because they are Specific, Measurable, comparatively more Attainable, Realistic, and Timely.

Once a goal is set, a plan of action is required to implement the routine into everyday life. A great way to set up

for success with nutrition-related goals is by proper planning and preparation. Planning and preparation of meals start before going to the grocery store. Some questions that are helpful to ask when planning meals for the week include; when will I eat this meal, where will I eat this meal, how long does this meal take to prepare/when will I prepare it, and what ingredients do I need?

Getting into a routine of asking these questions each week can help to achieve nutrition-related goals. It can be beneficial to set aside one day to plan your menu for the week.

Meal prepping can be a useful tool to limit the amount of time it takes to cook a meal; and despite popular belief, it can, and should, be more exciting than just rice, chicken and broccoli for every meal. Meal prepping can provide a way to get variations of nutritious foods into your weekly meals.

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ARTICLE BY CECE REEDER

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C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

Esc arole and Bean Soup Ingre di e nt s: • • • • • •

1 tablespoon olive oil • 4 cups of low-sodium vegetable 2 cloves garlic broth or bullion Salt and Pepper • 1 pound of whole grain pasta (orec2 large leaks (thinly sliced) chiette, rotini, penne etc.)

2 small heads fresh escarole (chopped) • Freshly grated parmesan (for serving) 15oz can navy beans (keep liquid)

D i re ct i on s: 1. In large pot on medium low heat combine the olive oil and garlic, salt and pepper (to taste) 2. Add leaks, sauté until semi-translucent. Add the vegetable stock and simmer. Add escarole and white beans. Cook until escarole is wilted and beans are heated through (about 5-8 minutes). Cook pasta separately and drain. Add pasta to individual bowls, add the escarole and bean soup.

3. Serve with freshly grated parmesan on top, freeze up to three months.

Fr u it s an d Ve get a b l e s in S ea s on in Janu ar y: • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

apples avocado bananas beets bok choy broccoli Brussels sprouts cabbage carrots cauliflower citrus celery collard greens

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

garlic kale, kiwi leeks mango mushrooms onions parsnips pears pomegranate potatoes rutabagas sweet potatoes winter squash

JANUARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / DA R I E N C T

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He re a re s om e h e l pf u l t i ps wh e n l o o k i ng t o st a r t a rout i n e w it h m e a l pre p pi ng: • DIVERSIFY YOUR DIET. Try not to just make one meal for the whole week, mix it up with different vegetables, protein sources, and types of grains!

• CONVENIENCE ITEMS SUCH AS BAGGED LETTUCE, PRE-CUT VEGETABLES, AND CERTAIN FROZEN FOOD ITEMS CAN BE JUST AS NUTRITIOUS! Bonus tip: for frozen food items, look for the percent daily value of sodium on the nutrition label – if it is 5% or below, you’re good to go! Frozen vegetables often contain more nutrients than their fresh counterparts when they are no longer in season.

• WHILE COOKING A MEAL, PLAN TO MAKE EXTRA FOR A FUTURE DAY IN THE WEEK! For example, if you are celebrating Taco Tuesday go ahead and make extras of your flavorful protein, seasoned vegetables, and rice to create a taco salad for lunch the next day. This way you are cooking while you have time available without creating extra work. This reconstruction makes leftovers more exciting and appealing.

• SEPARATE AND STORE INGREDIENTS BASED ON THEIR MAKEUP. i.e. vegetables, proteins, grains, and sauces/dressings

• REMEMBER WHAT COMPRISES A BALANCED MEAL. A quarter of the plate of lean protein, a quarter of the plate of a grain (bonus points for a whole grain!), and half of the plate to be fruits and/or vegetables

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C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

What is COMPASS? Compass Real Estate is the most innovative and technologically advanced real estate company, building the first modern real estate platform, and pairing the industry’s top talent with technology to make the search and sell experience intelligent and seamless.

Compass is also the #1 brokerage company nationwide in sales volume. And, Compass is where you want to live, with offices from coast to coast.

including price. There are several reasons a seller might choose to sell their home as a PEL, including family changes, financial circumstances, health issues, and privacy concerns. Sellers may also want a limited number of buyers in their home, and only those who are ready to buy and who are pre-qualified by their Compass listing agent.

Concierge: Concierge allows sellers to get fronted for the cost of home improvement services to enable them to quickly ready their house for Amongst the most unique qualities of the firm are who they partner sale, payable at closing, with NO interest fee. This can include repairs, with. Compass agents are the best there are. Compass only hires improvements, cleaning, decluttering, staging, moving and storage agents who are in the top 1% nationwide. Compass is about culture, expenses, and more. Your Compass agent will arrange for all services and advise you of what is necessary for the best return on your investment. kindness, collaboration, and support.

This service will save you time and money and allow you to keep your money in the bank.

Compass offers buyers and sellers the

benefits of the following: Artificial Intelligence (AI): One area where Compass differentiates itself is in machine learning capabilities and AI. This has helped agents improve their decision-making, including everything from pricing homes, deciding on the best time for a sale, and helping agents decide on which potential clients to target and when.

Private Exclusive Listings (PEL): This unique feature is critical in all markets, but especially so in a difficult one. A PEL offers value, discretion, privacy, an off-market listing, flexibility, and premium placement on the Compass agent facing platform. You may get the best offer by testing the market privately to gather key insights,

Coming Soon: Compass agents can list your home early as a Coming Soon property on compass.com and the Multiple Listing Service (MLS).

This gives buyers and their agents a heads up that your home is about to hit the market, thus driving early interest to your home with exclusive marketing opportunities. It also enables you and your agent to garner buyer interest before the listing goes fully active..

Would you like to learn more? I’d love to help you.

Please contact me by text, call or email, or visit my website, RachelWalshHomes.com.

2 0 3 .9 1 2 . 5 9 0 8 rach el wa l s h h o mes . c o m New Canaan | Darien | R owayton

MY EXPERIENCE WITH PURE BARRE

ARTICLE BY ANNA BARNES | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEGAN MILLS

THE ROAD TO PLATINUM BARRE STARTED WITH A NEW YEAR’S GOAL

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M UST SE E | HEA LTH + WELLNE S S

“Find a workout I love” were the exact words I scribbled down in my planner in early January 2022. While I’m not big into New Year’s Resolutions, I am into goals and checklists and this felt like a big one to check off.

Going into 2022, I had taken a little break from any kind of workout really other than walking. I was experiencing Covid Long-Hauler symptoms and grieving the loss of a parent; the combination of those two things made me absolutely dread any sort of rigorous (or otherwise) workout.

The process wasn’t pretty. Trying something new, especially as an adult, isn’t always the magical experience it’s made out to be. Mark my words, it’s very easy to feel a bit silly when you’re in the back of a high-intensity workout class, music blaring, arms flailing, with absolutely no idea what is coming next. After a few Apple Watch alerts that my heart rate was too high in these situations (thanks, Long-Hauler symptoms!), I decided to look for a more low-impact, but still impactful, workout.

“What about Pure Barre?” was the next thought to pop into my head. Eh. Growing up a ballet dancer, people used to ask me all the time if I enjoyed barre classes. I did not. While I had never done Pure Barre specifically, I had dabbled in other barre classes before and truthfully hated it. The positions are just different enough from traditional ballet techniques to really mess with my brain. But knowing that I had never given Pure Barre a chance, and on a whim, I booked myself into a 6 AM Classic class.

No turning back.

When my alarm went off the at 5:15 on a very dark and chilly morning last February, I quickly changed into the attire I had laid out the night before and grabbed a pair of sticky socks that I remembered are required for these types of classes. I drove in the dark just two exits up I-95 to Pure Barre Darien. I remember thinking to myself “I really hope this is it” as I was growing tired of feeling like Goldilocks trying to find the one that was just right.

I was greeted with a smile (yes, even at 5:50 in the morning!) by the instructor, Emily, who knew it was my first class at the studio. She gave me a quick tour and asked if I had ever taken barre before. She gave me the Pure Barre run-down, which I was much appreciative of, especially after previous experiences of going into classes completely blind, not knowing what to expect.

As I walked into the studio, I was glad to hear upbeat music. I figured even if I don’t like this workout, the music is good. The class started out with leg raises while pulling down the arms to get the heart rate going and for anyone who takes the 6am class, wake up. From there: a series of ab exercises, the token 90-second plank, and weighted arm exercises. And that’s just the warm-up before the three main sprints

Photo Credit: Frances V. Isaac

of the class: thigh, seat, and core. Each sprint portion of the class has three exercises to target that area. For example, during seat work, participants do three exercises that target the seat before moving to the next area.

The last portion of the 50-minute Classic class is a series of tucks done on the mat on the floor.

The lights were off and the music is bumping. Our instructor, Emily, encourages us to finish strong, “our best and final” and counted out “1…2..3…” all the way to 10. We ended with a guided stretch and while my muscles were totally spent, I felt… good? This was an unfamiliar feeling as the other classes I had tried left me feeling confused and slightly disappointed.

Intrigued, but cautious, I booked myself into the 6 am the next day. “Did I just like the teacher,” I thought, thinking this was too good to be true. But I showed up again, at 5:50 am the next morning to meet Lea who was equally as lovely and throughout the class, helped me with a few modifications to make sure all the exercises really worked for me.

That was all it took. Two classes in and I thought, “OK, I’ll really give this a go.” It’s not in my nature to take things slow so I immediately signed up for the March Madness challenge, twenty classes in thirty-one days. I figured by the end of the challenge, I’d know if I really liked it or not.

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March came and went and by the end of the month, I ended up with twenty-one Pure Barre classes to my name. A sure indicator that I really do love it. On the last day of March, I noticed a fellow barre classmate signing a shiny, silver barre known as the platinum barre. The platinum barre is reserved for members who attend 15 classes a month for one year. Which brings me to now, January 2023. Next month, I will achieve platinum barre status, which is 180 classes over the span of twelve months all because I tried something new to find a workout I love.

Throughout the past months, I’ve been able to take advantage of all four workouts: Foundations, Classic, Reform, and Empower so I never get bored of doing the same thing over and over.

Lastly, I would be remiss if I did not mention the warm sense of community within the walls of Pure Barre. From the studio staff, to the instructors, to my fellow barre members, I have been embraced, encouraged, and empowered by each and every one of them. While I hoped to find a workout I could love, I never expected to find such a welcoming space to strengthen my mind and body.

If you’ve thought about signing up for a class, I hope you’re inspired to take the leap; it just might be the workout you love, too.

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M UST SE E | HEA LTH + WELLNE S S

INVITATIONS • FLATWARE • LINENS • TABLE DECOR • FRESH FLOWERS CANDLES • SILVER • CRYSTAL • STATIONERY • REGISTRY

Water with a Heart

Megan Hayes & Kimberly Reilly talk the realization of creating a totally different water brand as their path to impact ARTICLE BY KELLIE KERWIN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EVERYBODY WATER

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I NSP IR E D BY | HEA LTH + W E LLNE S S

HOW DID EVERYBODY WATER BEGIN?

WHAT MAKES YOUR PRODUCT UNIQUE?

We met first as friends and neighbors and realized over time we had a shared dream to shift our careers and create a business that would make a huge impact for women and girls globally. Megan had grown up overseas as an expat and saw girls walking for water all day. She had her own recruiting company at the time and Kimberly was an entrepreneur who had created her own high-end lighting design company. Neither of us had worked in the food or beverage space and certainly knew nothing about selling water! However, we felt passionate that one of the most powerful ways to advance women and girls in developing countries would be by funding high-quality water and sanitation infrastructure projects that bring running water, a sink, shower and toilet directly into homes to free them from collecting water. Instead, they have time to attend school, earn incomes and thrive. We spent much time identifying, Water1st International, a high-quality non-profit organization working in the water development space.

They allowed us to travel with them to Honduras and Bangladesh to witness the need and ongoing projects at every stage.

It took us over two years to research the most sustainable form of packaging, obtain permits and develop our brand identity before launching in 2019. We had to place a minimum order of five tractor-trailer loads of water and we didn’t even have a customer or distributor to help with deliveries or sales. The two of us began filling up our cars and knocking on doors! The idea immediately clicked with so many forward-thinking businesses. We soon had attention from the press and interest from luxury hospitality and large corporations who saw the opportunity Everybody Water could offer them to eliminate plastic water bottles while giving-back and sharing an inspiring story of real impact.

Everybody Water is much more than water. It’s a refreshing, premium water and people love the taste but it’s also a statement and platform that highlights a commitment to supporting not only more sustainable initiatives but a mission that uplifts women and girls globally, including support of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals for Clean Water and Sanitation for All and Gender Equality, as well as the support of women-owned business.

HOW DOES THE COMPANY GIVE BACK? Everybody Water is committed to giving 3% of gross revenues to its non-profit partner Water1st International. These projects are complete, sustainable water and sanitation projects that bring a shower, sink and toilet into people’s homes for the first time, dramatically impacting communities and transforming the lives of women and girls.

These high-quality projects are not the kinds of band-aid solutions that are most common, such as community wells and pumps that often fail after a couple of years, but rather permanent and comprehensive solutions that include household connections that change the trajectory for women and girls. In addition to ending this brutally time-consuming, physically burdensome and often dangerous task, the projects themselves are designed to be led and run by local communities, so that they may learn to run and maintain them over time and become stronger in their organization. To date, we have funded projects in Honduras and are planning on more upcoming projects there, as well as in communities in Bangladesh and Kenya.

WHERE CAN CONSUMERS FIND EVERYBODY WATER? Our largest presence is in New England and Colorado in communities like Aspen, Vail and Denver.

We are expanding into other cities nationwide. You

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will find us given out as an amenity in luxury and boutique hotels, fashion retailers, private aviation, events, and in corporate offices. The Greenwich community has been wonderful and we have a presence in great eateries like Aux Delices, the Granola Bar and Mike’s Organic.

DESCRIBE YOUR CONNECTION TO THE COMMUNITY. Co-founder Megan Hayes was actually born in Greenwich before her family moved overseas! Our other co-founder Kimberly Reilly spent lots of time working in the area while pursuing her career in design and living in New York City. And our Director of Business Development, Nicole Arnold, raised her two young boys in Greenwich before relocating up to the Boston area. The community is filled

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I NSP IR E D BY | HEA LTH + W E LLNE S S

with dynamic people who can relate to the impact we aim to achieve and many people are approaching us about bringing Everybody Water into their own businesses in some way.

WHAT’S THE BEST PART OF YOUR JOB? Besides the satisfaction of seeing water projects completed and knowing that lives are forever changed, the most fulfilling part of our days is in building a community of top businesses here at home that want to be a part of Everybody Water. Megan and I took a leap of faith that people would connect with our idea, so seeing it resonate with the world’s best businesses who want to make a statement in the water they choose has been humbling and exciting.

We’ve proven the idea and now there is no limit to what is possible.

PREPARE YOUR SKIN FOR THE SEASONAL CHANGES

TM

Advanced Cellular Hydration and Repair Facial treatment 15% off *promotion valid for January 2023

darizenspa.com | (203) 984-9834 info@darizenspa.com Follow our journey @darizenspa 688 Post Rd, Darien, Connecticut 06820

IN TR ODU C IN G THE LOCAL LOVE AWAR DS! It’s hard to pick a favorite, but there Effective Educational & Therapeutic Services employs a unique co-treatment model where academic intervention and emotional support are tackled simultaneously. We service clients from elementary age into young adulthood.

We specifically treat individuals who struggle with Executive Functioning | Social Interactions | Anxiety | Depression Learning Differences such as ASD, ADHD, and LD In order to fully support our clients, we believe in a holistic model where therapy, EF/academic support, and mindfulness are integrated to treat the whole child.

are some spots in Darien + New Canaan that you have shown some extra love!

SC

AN HERE

Explore the Very Best Darien + New Canaan has to Offer TO

617.834.9969 | www.effective-services.com 1011 Hope St 2nd fl suite b Stamford, CT 06907

VOTE!

CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/DARIENCT DARIEN@CITYLIFESTYLE.COM JANUARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / DA R I E N C T

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When Art Meets Exercise

Yvonne Cla vel ou x

ARTIST YVONNE CLAVELOUX TEAMS UP WITH CLUBSWEAT Target and Lilly Pulitzer, Vineyard Vines and Crocs, Uber and Spotify. Is there anything as exciting as when two brands you love join forces and all of a sudden have an amazing product that you absolutely can’t live without? Athletic apparel is more functional than fun, so adding a designer to the mix, who makes leggings and wicking-fabric apparel more than mono-tonal, adds a bit of glamour to one’s sweat session.

Yvonne Claveloux, a primarily self-trained artist who grew up in Westport, is teaming up with CLUBSWEAT, a boutique fitness studio specializing in elliptical workouts and owned by Laura Sabia, to offer athletic apparel inspired by the CLUBSWEAT logo.

Yvonne’s bright, energetic work compliments the fun cardio routines. Both the studio and the athletic wear are unique, and having both of them local makes the collaboration even more special.

We caught up with both of them to learn more.

DESCRIBE YOUR BUSINESS IN THREE WORDS. Yvonne Claveloux (YC): Colorful, Creative and Joyful Laura Sabia (LS): Fun, Energizing, Community-oriented

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT BEING A BUSINESS OWNER? YC: I love the freedom and flexibility of being a business owner, and it's so satisfying to see my work bring joy to my client's lives.

LS: It allows me to be a workaholic by choice but also make a real difference in people's lives. We have built such a large team and each person's contributions to the studios and the community make a difference in creating a healthier community for everyone that comes through our studio doors.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIA D’AGOSTINO

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HOW DO YOU BALANCE YOUR TIME AS AN ENTREPRENEUR? YC: Every day is different for me, but generally includes activities such as deliveries to and discussions with galleries, photo shoots for art and products, meetings with clients for commissions, planning my content for social media and preparing for exhibitions. Since my days can become busy quickly, I like to start very early in my studio. I enjoy the quiet and creative time, and it allows me to focus on my artwork with no distractions.

LS: I have to delegate. There are only so many hours in the day and prioritizing tasks and having strong time management have become a necessary evil. I would love nothing more than to be the point person on every project and be at every milestone celebration but it becomes impossible when you have to make sure that everything is running like a well-oiled machine.

WHAT DOES COMMUNITY MEAN TO YOU? YC: To me, community means a feeling of belonging. It is about relationships with individuals that collectively can make a change or care for each other. My husband and I both grew up in Westport and we raised our two daughters here, so our roots are deep and we feel very fortunate to be part of the fabric of our town. I also really love to give back by supporting local organizations through the donation of my artwork.

LS: When people form connections due to having a similar interest and form friendships based on that shared interest. With fitness, this can be when people are working towards a common goal. I love that our studios have formed friendships outside of our studio walls and helped to create a healthy space for people to live happier lives

because they feel good about themselves. Westport is such a special place to me since I opened my first business here in 2013. The community made me feel welcomed with open arms and we have been able to organically grow based on the ever-changing needs of our clients.

WHERE DID YOU DRAW INSPIRATION FROM YOUR COLLABORATION PIECE WITH CLUBSWEAT? YC: My artwork for CLUBSWEAT was inspired by their logo, which is a drop of sweat. I used my style of different shapes and stripes along with CLUBSWEAT's blue and gray tones to bring their brand to life in a creative and artistic way.

CAN WE EXPECT MORE COLLABORATIONS IN THE FUTURE? YC: I am excited about some upcoming projects and collaborations that will feature my artwork on more products!

LS: Absolutely! Aside from the painting in the lobby, Yvonne developed a custom yoga mat that has our branding with Yvonne's artwork. We also have a cropped sports bra with her art and water bottles as well. We are working with some great athleisure brands and at-home products to deliver our live stream and on-demand services more seamlessly to stream right into people's living rooms. More to come in 2023!

YClavelouxArt.com @yclavelouxart Club-Sweat.com @clubsweatwestport 623 Post Road East CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / DA R I E N C T

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HOW HAS YOUR COMMITMENT TO WORKING OUT EVOLVED OVER TIME? During the past five years, I’ve shifted my focus from being the skinniest version of myself to sculpting my muscles at the elite level of a true athlete. Instead of concentrating on cardio as my main exercise, I lift heavy weights and eat enough protein to repair and build lean muscle mass. As a rule, I consume one gram of protein per pound of body weight. Due to a major back injury, which resulted in surgery in 2014, I’ve figured out how my body moves through space in everyday life. This motivated me to start bodybuilding and, ultimately, to earn my Personal Training Certification through an organization called the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). With this accreditation under my belt, my mission is to help other people meet their fitness goals in the safest and smartest way possible while enjoying the journey.

YOU SPENT MANY YEARS ENSCONCED IN THE FASHION INDUSTRY. WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO CHANGE YOUR CAREER PATH AND TURN A DEDICATED HOBBY INTO A PROFESSION AS A PERSONAL TRAINER? Fashion has always been and will always be a passion of mine, which means it will continue to be part of my brand. However, physical fitness is my first true love.

When the opportunity to center my career around this industry became a reality, I never looked back. I’m one hundred percent invested in devoting myself to my clients full-time.

SHE DOES IT… 4 THE LOVE OF MUSCLE

WHEN DID YOU FIRST DEVELOP A PASSION FOR FITNESS? I’ve been an athlete my entire life—from starting ballet and gymnastics at three years old through my teens to basketball, volleyball, softball, and skiing in middle school and high school. I also played lacrosse and snowboarded while in college. As an adult, I love running, tennis, weight training, CrossFit and, currently, bodybuilding. I find freedom in exercise; I feel at peace with myself and my thoughts. For me, working out is a judgment-free zone, where I derive power from the fact that are no rules or boundaries.

YOU’RE KNOWN FOR WEARING THE MOST STYLISH ACTIVEWEAR. WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE BRANDS? AND WHAT’S YOUR “UNIFORM” WHEN YOU HIT THE GYM? I’m a huge fan of a “playsuit,” also known as a onesie/ unitard/bodysuit/catsuit, which I consider to be part of my “uniform.” I love subtle color connectors within outfits, and I’m all about doing things in threes, as it’s my favorite number. For example, I like the color of the glitter on the back of my Golden Goose sneakers to tie in with an accent color in my workout outfit, which also happens to be a color of a charm on my necklace. A few brands I’m obsessed with are: THE UPSIDE, Ultracor, P.E. Nation, and Off-White. I’m also a fan of Spiritual Gangster and FREECITY for less intense workout days with a full-fashion vibe. Two newbies on the scene that are piquing my interest are Live The Process and Le Ore. I’m a firm believer that the clothing we wear impacts the way we feel and even our behavior. When you feel good, your mindset shifts to a place where self-care becomes more important to you. There’s actually a term for how clothing influences an individual’s psychological processes, which is “Enclothed Cognition.”

ARTICLE BY EMILY LIEBERT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PRIVATE PORTRAITS BY JEN GOLDBERG

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YOUR APPROACH TO HEALTH AND WELLNESS IS VERY THOROUGH. CAN YOU SHARE YOUR VISION FOR TRAINING PEOPLE WHO ARE LOOKING TO IMPROVE IN THESE AREAS? One of my mottos is: Everything matters! When working with clients, I take into consideration their goals or problems they want to solve, their past injuries, their diet, and what kinds of movements are most natural for them.

WHAT MOTIVATES YOU TO WORK OUT? Music takes me to another level when I’m training.

I relive memories and celebrate or mourn them while sweating out the toxins. It’s therapy. Music gives me hope—for a new day, for a future opportunity, or for an exciting business venture that’s waiting to bloom. I’ve poured my heart and soul into playlists and crafted them on Spotify.

WHAT’S YOUR BEST ADVICE FOR PEOPLE WHO WANT TO STAY IN SHAPE BUT DON’T HAVE HOURS TO DEVOTE TO WORKING OUT? Healthy habits are your building blocks. Even if you don’t feel like hitting the gym on any given day, try to push yourself to show up and start with 20 minutes of walking or stretching.

ANY TIPS ON WHAT NOT TO DO AT THE GYM? AND HOW TO AVOID INJURIES? Form is key. For example, people often make the mistake of using heavier weights to “get a good workout” when they haven’t been trained properly. This will inevitably lead to injury. Certainly, in the beginning stages of weight training, consult a professional who can guide you in your pursuits.

DO YOU FOLLOW A SPECIFIC DIET? WHAT ARE SOME SUPERFOODS YOU LOVE? ARE THERE SPECIFIC FOODS PEOPLE SHOULD AVOID AT ALL COSTS? I do follow a very specific diet. First and foremost, I shun fast foods, processed foods, and even certain protein bars which are marketed as healthy, but actually contain ingredients that are not good for you. I believe food is fuel, and I’m currently laser-focused on protein consumption to build lean muscle mass. Your body

can utilize 30-50 grams of protein per meal. Anything beyond that goes to waste. I also view nuts as vitamins, and I take nine per day—three walnuts, three Brazil nuts, and three raw almonds.

MY TYPICAL DIET LOOKS LIKE THIS: Breakfast • 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder in my coffee = 20g protein • 2 full eggs and 4 egg whites with spinach and tomatoes = 24g protein Lunch • Salad with 6 ounces of grilled chicken = 24g protein Snack • Blueberries and 6 grilled shrimp = 24g protein Dinner • 1 small sweet potato or rice, broccoli, and 4 ounces salmon = 16g protein Dessert • Fairlife chocolate milk = 42g protein

CAN YOU SHARE A SAMPLE FITNESS REGIMEN WITH OUR READERS? My expertise is in bodybuilding, and my knowledge lends itself to helping clients incorporate strength training into their current routines. As I mentioned, every person is different, so a customized regimen is essential.

With this said, cardio is important for heart health. If you’re looking to lose a lot of weight, say 30+ pounds, your cardio should be in a Zone 2 range, which will work out your heart and burn fat but won’t eat away at your muscle. My suggestion is to use the treadmill five days a week for 30 minutes at an incline of 12 and a 3.0 pace.

HOW DO YOU ENVISION THE FUTURE OF YOUR BRAND? WOULD YOU EVER CONSIDER CREATING A PRODUCT LINE? I’m a serial entrepreneur and a creator at heart, so the answer is YES! There’s a lot in store for the future of my brand in regard to clean, healthy living coupled with my fashion-forward sensibility, which is ingrained in sustainability. Stay tuned…

Follow Anne @4theloveofmuscle on: MyFitnessPal, Spotify, TikTok + Instagram

Name: Anne Epstein Passion Jobs: Personal Trainer, Equinox Darien + Mother of 3 boys Goal: To provide a curated fitness experience for each of my clients Focus: Postural muscle strength, low back pain prevention, and total bodybuilding for life longevity New Year’s Resolution: To surpass my personal fitness records

ANNE’S QUICK STATS Weight: 115 Height: 5’5” Body Fat: 13.9% Longest Plank: 33 minutes Deadlift: 165lbs for 8 reps Calories/Day: 2200

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LEGGINGS 3 WAY S ARTICLE BY HALEY WILLIAMS

Our suggestions for styling faux leather leggings As we move through the season of spandex when most of us feel we’d rather not leave our stretchy pants, we wanted to feature three distinct looks using the same pair of Foil Snake Print Faux Leather leggings from Spanx.

Whether you’re brunching with the babes or getting ready for date night, these versatile leggings can carry you through from casual to chic. While there are endless ways to wear them, we’re going to show you three ways to start styling them today.

BRUNCH AFTER BARRE Who doesn’t love a good brunch with the girls after your workout complete with mimosas to celebrate? Assuming you are sweaty from leg lifts and flutter kicks, our suggestion is to layer your sweaty tank with loose layers and a light jacket to swiftly transition you from the barre to breakfast.

A hat is always a good option to have on hand in case you worked too hard and that hair is showing it. We opted for easy-to-slip-on sockless sneakers that breathe. Since feet are one of the ways the body regulates temperature, you want to go airy with your footwear after a workout.

Lastly, don’t forget a cute tote or bag. Consider throwing in a clean tank and any makeup or face wipes you may need for freshening up on your way.

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MOTO MAMA What we love about Spanx is their inherent ability to elevate your look, regardless of the occasion.

Stretchy pants in a faux leather snake design? Say no more. Pair them with edgy booties or colorful pumps for a more elegant aesthetic. Playing with different textures is a good way to add interest and intrigue. Consider a chunky sweater with some unexpected details like the bare shoulder shown here, a thick boucle or intricate detailing. We love a good leather jacket with hardware details draped over the shoulder(s) for chilly evenings as you traverse the town. Pair this look with a gorgeous sparkly clutch and chunky bracelet.

CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / DA R I E N C T

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SATUR DAY Whether you’re headed to a child’s sports game or a bar to watch the big game with your friends, leggings offer the structure and flexibility you’ll want as you find your spot among the fans in the bleachers or indulge in some lovely libations.

Layers are life for this look. We tied a button-down around the waist which is so nice through the colder winter months as both an outfit accessory and a layering piece. Fur-lined high tops provide practical footwear for this look — because who doesn’t love some killer sneaks?

A shacket and crossover bag complete the look.

Whether you want a bit of a boost, a hint of a lift, or just a little tuck, you won’t go wrong with this versatile shapewear. And with these styling tips, you’re ready to throw them on for any occasion!

Snag some of the key details of the outfits here!

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SPORTS CHIC

JANUARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / DA R I E N C T

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J A N UA RY 2 0 2 3

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

JANUARY 19 TH

Chris Barron of the Spin Doctors

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WA L L ST R E E T T H E AT E R 7 1 WA L L ST R E E T NO R WA L K , C T 0 6 8 5 0 | 8 :0 0 P M The zeitgeist is a moving target, and Chris Barron has always been a crack shot. The New York songwriter is no longer the debutant who set out on the circuit’s sharp end in 1988 with $100, a battered acoustic and a headful of the alt-rock anthems that would elevate Spin Doctors to global stardom. He’s a veteran approaching 50, living in a world changed beyond recognition, compelled to write the music that chronicles the here and now. As far back as he can remember, he’s had a hunger driving him onward, toward something just out of reach.

JANUARY 21ST

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Club Kung Fu Free Women’s Self Defense

1 0 1 6 H O P E ST 1 0 1 6 H O P E ST R E E T STA MF O R D, C T 0 6 9 0 7 | 1 0 :30 A M Want to learn how to defend yourself?

Come to Club Kung Fu for the January Women's Self-Defense class. This class occurs on the third Saturday of every month! No previous experience is needed!

JANUARY 27TH

Trivia Night at the Museum

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EVE N TS

NE W CA NA A N MUS E UM & H I STO R I CA L S O C I E T Y 1 3 O E NO KE R I DG E NE W CA NA A N , C T 0 6 8 4 0 | 6 :30 P M The trivia will focus on New Canaan history with both written clues and "guess what this is" images. Feel free to come by yourself or bring friends and play as a team! Refreshments will be served.

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Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/DarienCT

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