I don’t know about you but I love any opportunity to recognize the women in my life who just make life more rich and beautiful. Our sisters, mothers and nieces are some of the most influential women in our lives and the dance parties I have with my nieces bring me back to those college days of just having a great time whenever I am with them. I can’t wait for our newest addition to the Sabia girl squad, Gigi to join in on the fun as soon as she starts walking!
I couldn’t have been more excited to write our cover feature Jo Dee Messina this month. A true country music icon. My sister and I have actually sang her music on repeat on a recent road trip from Minneapolis to Kansas City. It was such a treat and I hope you enjoy it.
And of course with Mother’s Day this month, all eyes are on moms… Though it’s not just the biological mothers, but the mother figures in our lives who have made an indelible impact on us. It’s the family members, teachers, friends and neighbors doing awesome things in our communities, pouring into our lives - making themselves unforgettable and irreplaceable.
While it’s always important to shop local and support our area businesses, this month is the perfect time to patronize businesses owned by women in our communities. That’s one of my favorite parts of this role - connecting with and championing the best of the best when it comes to our communities women.
They are movers and shakers, builders and makers. They are both seen and unseen. Their silent service blesses those who are under their care. Their attention to detail shows us something about beauty that can’t be seen or understood any other way.
I hope you’ll take a few minutes to send a text, make a phone call or get your kids on a video call with the women in your life who deserve recognition. It only takes a minute to brighten someone’s day and remind them how much you love them.
LAURA SABIA, PUBLISHER @DARIENNEWCANAANLIFESTYLEMAG
PUBLISHER
Laura Sabia | laura.sabia@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Kristin Burnell | kristin.burnell@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Emma Parente | emma.parente@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Anna Barnes, Ashley Cannon
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Abby Cole, Liz Polo, Havana Photography
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
Proverbs 3:5-6
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The Norwalk Art Space (TNAS) received a $25,000 grant from Fairfield County’s Community Foundation for its Art Education Program. Offering free, high-quality art classes to local students, TNAS has served over 2,300 individuals since its June 2021 inception. Committed to diversity, we believe in supporting underserved social groups. TNAS has provided career opportunities for 24 artists, significantly enhancing exposure for their work.
The Glass House has announced the completion of the full restoration of the historic Brick House, designed by Philip Johnson in 1949. This significant structure will reopen to the public on May 2nd. Closed to visitors since 2008 due to damage caused by water infiltration, the Brick House has been a missing piece of architectural history, as it was an integral part of the architect’s original plan for the site.
Experience the best of coastal living with Rowayton Seafood's new offerings! Enjoy the cozy ambiance of their fire pits, open daily at 5 pm, perfect for pre-dinner drinks! Arrive in style via boat slips! Visitors can reserve a "Boat Slip & Dining Table" on the Rowayton Seafood website. This time of year is also great for a seaside picnic! Order takeout from the restaurant and sit at the picnic tables on the dock.
MIKU Sushi partnered with Ryleigh's Resources and fertility advocate, Laura Young, on a menu in April. The special menu featured four dishes designed to help raise funds and awareness for the nonprofit's mission, ensuring that resources related to pregnancy or infant loss are made accessible to grieving families. MIKU launched the "specials menu" non-profit giveback program in Feb 2020 and partners with a new organization and promotion host each month. mikugreenwich.com ryleighsresources.org
Hailing from the picturesque town of Holliston, Massachusetts, Jo Dee Messina ventured into the heart of country music at the tender age of 19, making Nashville her new home. Since then, her journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. With two platinum and three gold-certified albums accredited by the RIAA, Messina has etched her name in the annals of country music history. Notably, she holds the distinction of being the first female artist to consecutively top the charts with three multi-week No. 1 hits.
ARTICLE BY LAURA SABIA
Recognized by the Country Music Association as a Horizon Award winner in 1999, Messina's illustrious career boasts six CMA Awards nominations, alongside two GRAMMY Awards nods. Her vocal prowess has been acknowledged with accolades such as the Best Female Country Vocal Performance for "That's The Way" in 2001, and the Best Country Collaboration with Vocals for "Bring On the Rain," featuring Tim McGraw, in 2002.
Beyond the accolades, Messina's connection with her audience is palpable, evidenced by her consistent sold-out shows across the United States. Recently, she electrified
packed arenas while supporting country legend Reba McEntire, igniting an atmosphere of pure euphoria. As The Columbus Dispatch noted, the crowd's fervor for Messina's performance was akin to a roaring cheer, marking each hit song with fervent sing-alongs and unbridled enthusiasm.
In the digital realm, Messina's impact is equally profound, with her music surpassing a staggering 1 billion streams collectively across platforms like Pandora, Spotify, and Apple Music. Her influence remains evergreen, with over 4 million streams per week, a testament to her enduring appeal and resonance with fans.
“HOCKEY MAMAS ARE THE CLOSEST WITH THEIR CHILDREN BECAUSE THEY SPEND SO MUCH TIME IN THE CAR TOGETHER!”
Let’s delve into the remarkable journey of Jo Dee Messina, celebrating her legacy as a trailblazer in country music and exploring the enduring charm that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
Every 90’s child can likely sing the Rolodex of Jo Dee’s songs on repeat. Her music has woven itself into the fabric of nostalgia for many, serving as a soundtrack to countless
memories and milestones. This hockey mom of two boys prioritizes her family and time with her sons. She says that hockey mamas are the closest with their children because they spend so much time in the car together! It's this bond and understanding of family dynamics that resonate deeply with her fans, making her not just a celebrated artist but also a cherished role model.
Among the myriad of connections she's forged, the Malloy family, local to Greenwich, holds a special place. This association is significant, as it's bringing the kickoff of her New England homecoming tour to the Palace Theater in Stamford. What's more, a considerable number of their kids' hockey mates hail from Greenwich, illustrating the intertwining of music, community, and shared experiences. As Messina prepares to embark on her New England homecoming tour, she eagerly anticipates revisiting favorite hidden gems in Stamford and the surrounding areas. However, her excitement extends beyond Connecticut, as she eagerly expresses her anticipation of indulging in the quintessential New England experience of savoring fresh lobster in Maine.
Amidst the anticipation surrounding Jo Dee Messina's upcoming tour, there's a buzz about the promise of fresh, exhilarating experiences awaiting fans. With a new record on the horizon, Messina is eager to share her latest musical creations, offering audiences an exclusive glimpse into her evolving artistry. As the spotlight shines on her upcoming shows in the Northeast, fans can expect a dynamic fusion of fan favorites interwoven with the allure of unreleased tracks, creating an atmosphere brimming with excitement and anticipation.
Messina kicks off her New England homecoming tour at the Palace Theatre in Stamford, on Friday, May 31, 2024 at 8:00pm https://palacestamford.org
Unwrap the perfect gift for Mom this Mother's Day with my curated selection of must-have products. From pampering picks to practical finds, discover unique treasures that celebrate the special mamas in your life.
NAGI | FAMILY-OWNED | EST. 1980
Featuring a Bespoke Diamond and Platinum Band, Price
Upon Request. When it comes to a Mother’s Day present, NAGI has plenty to choose from, they carry brands like David Yurman, Michele Watches, Rolex, Longines, Roberto Coin and more. If you want to create a personal, custom design, they can also make that vision come to life. To boot, they have an entire bridal selection on the second floor. For all your special moments… NAGI.
Diamonds | Wedding | Custom & Designer Jewelry Luxury Watches | Curated Estate & Vintage
Upcoming Event: Lika Behar Collection’s Mother’s Day Trunk Show | 5/10-5/11
nagijewelers.com | @nagijewelers
M.GEMI | HANDMADE LUXURIES FROM ITALY, WITH LOVE
Featuring The Lisinda in Black Mesh, $348 and The Marzia in Ecru, $328. M.GEMI’s shoes are high-quality, well-made and always a mainstay in my closet –any mom would love to receive shoes from M.GEMI. These styles and shapes are on-trend - the mesh detailing, center stitching and low kitten heels are perfect for spring and summer alike.
mgemi.com | @mgemi
LITTLE LIFFNER | SUBTLE PIECES | DESIGNED IN STOCKHOLM, MADE IN ITALY
Featuring the Maccheroni Saddle Bag in Chestnut Suede , $495 . Upgrade Mom’s bag this year with this easy-to-wear saddle that’s perfect for her on-the-go life.
Suede’s luxurious texture adds instant warmth and richness to any outfit. It transcends casual looks, lending a touch of sophistication to a pant and tee combo, sundress or jeans.
littleliffner.com | @littleliffner
WITH CLARITY | NYC | ELEVATE YOUR EVERYDAY
Featuring the Bezel Lab Diamond Tennis Bracelet in 14K Yellow Gold, $2,180. Give the gift that can be passed down this Mother’s Day. A tennis bracelet is a meaningful present that can become a cherished heirloom, passed down through generations as a tangible reminder of the love and memories shared between mother and child. Elevate your everyday with, With Clarity. With Clarity crafts engagement rings and jewelry that redefine luxury.
withclarity.com | @withclarity
Featuring the Riley Rigor Bra in Black, $82, Raquel High Waist Rigor Flare in Black, $118 and Louise Rib Long Sleeve in White, $78. This is a chic, quality, and comfortable go-to outfit for Mom while she is running errands, picking the kids up or going to barre. On repeat.
splits59.com | @splits59 | Shop Local at Pure Barre (Darien & Westport), Club Sweat (Westport)
BROCHU WALKER | LUXURY TO LIVE IN
Featuring The Everyday Tote in Coffee, $898 . This gorgeous tote is made from luxurious suede and has a rich chocolate hue. Its silhouette is both on trend, yet classic. It is also surprisingly roomy, and can hold all her essentials, making it fabulous for everyday use, and a great gift to give that will last her for years to come.
brochuwalker.com | @brochuwalker
SARA SHALA | WEARABLE SCULPTURES BY @SARASHALANYC
Featuring the Motus Ring, Sterling Silver & Diamonds, $595. Sterling silver and diamonds come together to make this sculptural masterpiece. Statement rings are designed to be noticed, a perfect way for Mom to showcase her unique personality and unwavering sense of style.
sarashala.com | @sarashaladesign
LAKE | THE PERFECT PAJAMAS DO EXIST
Featuring the Cozy Robe in Navy, $148 and the Pima Long-Long Set in Hydrangea, $124. This Mother’s Day, give Mom the gift of relaxation and self-care with a luxurious pajama and robe set. It’s a thoughtful present that shows you understand how much she deserves a moment to unwind and prioritize herself.
lakepajamas.com | @lakepajamas
AUREUM | THE ART OF ACCESSORIZING
Featuring the No.3 Black & Silver Mousse Leather Belt, $200. A quality belt is a wardrobe staple. Invest in this classic to upgrade Mom’s wardrobe. I promise she will thank you.
aureumcollective.com | @aureum.collective
To see my fashion, beauty and lifestyle selects on the daily, be sure to head to styleelyst.com and follow me on social @styleelyst | Psst. keep your eyes peeled for The Style List in the 2024 issues of both Greenwich and Darien Lifestyle Magazines. In addition to being a style columnist, Ashley Cannon is a fashion/lifestyle influencer (@styleelyst/styleelyst.com), mother and marketing specialist. She resides in Fairfield County, CT with her husband, daughter and yellow lab.
At Intentional Self Aesthetics, the mission is to cultivate confidence, self-awareness, and self-compassion for every client, honoring individuality with personalized programs. This month, we sat down with Teresa Alasio, MD and learned more about her vision for her new business in the heart of New Canaan, CT.
CL: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START YOUR OWN BUSINESS, AND HOW DID THE IDEA FOR YOUR MEDICAL PRACTICE COME ABOUT?
TA: From a very young age I have had an entrepreneurial spirit. After I completed my residency early in my career, in every position I had, whether it was at an academic institution or for a private corporation, I always came up with innovative ideas for service offerings outside the box. Most of the time when I tried to implement my ideas, I was limited by resources, corporate politics or lack of support from leadership. When I left my last full-time corporate medicine position in 2021, I felt the time had come for me to remove the guardrails and take a chance on myself instead of creating something for someone else.
CL: REFLECTING ON YOUR EXPERIENCES WITHIN OUR COMMUNITY, CAN YOU SHARE A PARTICULAR MOMENT THAT SYMBOLIZES THE STRENGTH AND EMPOWERMENT OF WOMEN HERE?
TA : The mission of Intentional Self Aesthetics is empowerment of women through compassionate self care. The vast majority of my clients are women, although a few of my clients are male. My practice is all about women feeling safe to be themselves, be seen for who they are, look at themselves
Favorite Local Restaurant: Roger Sherman Inn
Favorite thing to do on the weekend: Go for a long run outside, cook dinner at home with my husband and boys
Favorite place to visit: Waveny Park
Favorite local business: Adirondack Store
Favorite activities for spring and summer: Taking the dog for walks in the park, biking around the neighborhood, training for the SONO half-marathon in the fall!
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABBY COLE
Navigating entrepreneurship, community, and personal fulfillment in New Canaan’s heart.
in the mirror and change what they don’t like and keep what they do. The clients make the decision of what those things are and not someone else. I am a mother and a wife just like my clients are, and we share the community – my kids go to the same schools as most of my clients’ kids, some of them grew up together.
CL: NAVIGATING THE LOCAL LANDSCAPE, WHAT OBSTACLES HAVE YOU PERSONALLY CONQUERED, AND HOW DO YOU ENVISION YOUR JOURNEY INSPIRING OTHER WOMEN IN OUR COMMUNITY TO BREAK THROUGH SIMILAR BARRIERS?
TA: My first priority was to locate my practice in my hometown of New Canaan, so naturally this limited the geographic scope of my search for potential spaces to lease. A major obstacle was the local real estate market. As a medical practice, I had to understand the zoning laws that govern my type of business, and I learned that the hard way. I struggled with finding a good broker at first, and I tried negotiating a lease on my own, which was a disaster. After 9 months of playing the game, I contracted with a fantastic broker and then everything snapped into focus. My broker showed me the significant value that commercial real estate brokers should add in these negotiations, and she helped me negotiate the lease of the space where my office is today. I would tell other women in the community who wish to start their business that they should educate themselves on all aspects of the local market, including talking with planning and zoning and building departments, and get the information and answers ahead of time. Don’t do it alone when it comes to commercial real estate. Having a great commercial broker will save you both time and money in the long run.
CL: GIVEN THE CLOSE-KNIT NATURE OF OUR COMMUNITY, HOW HAVE YOU MANAGED TO BALANCE YOUR PROFESSIONAL PURSUITS WITH PERSONAL LIFE? WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU SHARE WITH FELLOW COMMUNITY MEMBERS SEEKING A HARMONIOUS BLEND OF CAREER AND PERSONAL FULFILLMENT?
TA: I intentionally located my business in the same town where I reside. This was priority number one for me. Prior to this, I had always held jobs outside of Connecticut and had at least a 40 minute commute. When I left my last position, I made the decision that I wanted to be close to home. Now that my boys are getting older, I find that it’s more important that I’m around for them. It’s not unusual for them to come to the office after school. When they go into town with their friends and they want to catch a ride home with me and I love to see them any chance that I get. Having my business here affords me a different level of involvement in the community. I feel more invested in what goes on and certainly more interested. I love going to events organized by the Chamber of Commerce, which is very active in New Canaan (and run by women!). As well as Rotary and other women’s networking events. I love engaging with local business owners and experiencing their support and encouragement. I enjoy giving my support to local charitable organizations in the form of donations for their fundraising events. I’m involved with the New Canaan High School senior intern program and we are getting a student intern for a couple of weeks at the end of May. All of these things contribute to an enormous sense of satisfaction and fulfillment both professionally and personally.
CL: FOR COMMUNITY MEMBERS INTERESTED IN STARTING THEIR OWN BUSINESSES, WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU OFFER BASED ON YOUR OWN EXPERIENCES AND LESSONS LEARNED ALONG THE WAY?
TA: Decide on the one thing that is important to you, and then build around that. It takes many hands to build a business – get help when you need it (and recognize when you need it)!
Be patient – things never move as fast as you think or want them to. Prepare to become an expert in everything, even the most mundane detail requires your attention. Nobody is going to care more than you about your business. Never ever give up.
Visit Dr. Teresa and her team at Intentional Self Aesthetics, 23 Vitti St, New Canaan, CT 06840.
MAY 9TH
New Canaan Nature Center's Seventh Annual Lecture & Luncheon
New Canaan Country Club | 11:30 AM
The New Canaan Nature Center invites you to their Seventh Annual Lecture & Luncheon! Your attendance at their signature event will help support the Nature Center and its mission to inspire people of all ages to respect, protect and enjoy the world of nature. Guest speaker, Bunny Williams, will be discussing her new book, Bunny Williams: Life in the Garden.
MAY 12TH
Goodwives Shopping Center | 7:00 AM
This month's Cars & Coffee event will be featuring the cars of England and the United Kingdom! Bring the kids and your pets! These family-friendly events also offer coffee and breakfast treats for sale from Aux Delices. As usual, all make and models are welcome, but only vehicles fitting the theme will be eligible for a Theme Trophy.
MAY 12TH
Pear Tree Point Beach | 7:30 AM
Start your Mother's Day morning with a purpose! Take your Mom out for a morning sun-run / sun-walk at the beach, with flowers! All proceeds from this event will be directed to help Ukraine, raising funds to procure boots, drones and thermal cameras.
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MAY 16TH
The Tokeneke Club | 11:00 AM
The 22nd Annual Voices of Courage Spring Luncheon will welcome Michelle Horton as the keynote speaker, who is not only an accomplished writer but also a fervent advocate for domestic violence victims. Attendees will hear Michelle's compelling story, followed by a conversation with Suzanne Adam, CEO of DVCC. Proceeds from the luncheon support DVCC's lifesaving services and prevention education programs.
MAY 18TH
New Canaan Food Revolution
98 Park St, New Canaan CT | 9:30 AM
The New Canaan Food Revolution returns for a 9th year! Enjoy a morning stroll downtown and sampling bites to eat at different locations. Earn a stamp for everything you taste and complete your passport to be entered into a prize draw. All proceeds from ticket sales go to The Sunshine Kids, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping children with cancer.
MAY 31ST
New Canaan High School | 7:00 PM
See NCHS Theater's final show of the season and experience an enchanting evening at Cinderella! Witness the breathtaking performances, stunning costumes, and captivating set designs that will bring this beloved fairy tale to life. Whether you're a fan of classic tales or simply looking for a delightful evening out, Cinderella promises to be an unforgettable experience for all ages.
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ARTICLE BY MEGAN SCHINELLA
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Grab your gal pals and plan a relaxing or upscale day, weekend, or girls night out with these local experiences!
1. VISIT CASA ME: Homemade pastas, Italian cocktails and spirits, and warm hospitality come together to create a relaxed and refined dining experience. 7 Sconset Square, Westport CT.
2. T’S PIZZA KITCHEN: Hands on mozzarella making class experience like no other. Learn all about the process and what it takes to make everyone’s favorite cheese, then enjoy it at its freshest! 523 Pacific St, Stamford CT.
3. BOOK A BOTOX OR DYSPORT APPOINTMENT: IPL laser treatment at Dr. Flora Levin’s office. This skilled team will help you look and feel your best! 1391 Post Rd E 2nd floor suite, Westport CT.
4. LAUGH AT NEW YORK STAMFORD COMEDY CLUB: Authentic New York stand up serving up nothing but the best comedy! 230 Tresser Blvd, Stamford CT.
5. DISCOVER AND SHOP WEST: your go to Women's clothing and accessories Boutique. The perfect fusion of East Coast edge and laid-back West Coast flair, the hottest fashion boutique. 117 Post Rd E, Westport CT.
There’s nothing wrong with getting a little help to get there! Call Today To Find Out What He Can Do For You!
Discerning men and women from all over the world flock to Dr Kirwan’s office for his unparalleled expertise in plastic surgery for the face and body.
Dr Kirwan is a Diplomate of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and The Aesthetic Society, a fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons, and the author of several books on plastic surgery.
