Darien New Canaan, CT July 2026

2026 LOCAL LOVE WINNERS ANNOUNCED: E X P LO R I N G O U R CO M M U N IT Y ' S STA P LES

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Welcome to Our New Greenwich, CT Endodontic Home At ONE ENDO®, we believe every patient deserves compassion, clarity, and clinical excellence. Our brand new Greenwich location brings world-class specialists, advanced technology, and an elevated patient experience to the heart of your community. Your comfort. Your peace of mind. Your smile.

203.952.0555 www.oneendo.com 5 Edgewood Avenue, Greenwich CT 06831

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Rooted in Community July 2026 Celebrating the exploration of the people, businesses, and stories that shape our towns in meaningful ways.

There’s something especially powerful about local businesses that are built with heart.

Not just businesses created to sell a product or service, but brands and organizations that make life better for the people around them. This issue is filled with exactly those kinds of stories.

One of the features I’m especially excited to share this month is our story on Mackenzie, founder of MAJA Food. What began as a passion for healthy living evolved into a brand focused on creating wholesome, inclusive food options for busy families and individuals navigating dietary restrictions. Her story is one so many readers will relate to: balancing motherhood, career pivots, wellness, and the desire to build something meaningful from the ground up.

What I love most about MAJA’s story is that it reflects something we see so often throughout Darien and New Canaan, entrepreneurs building businesses not only from expertise, but from personal experience and genuine care for others.

Whether it’s creating healthier food options, designing beautiful homes, supporting wellness journeys, or giving back through philanthropy and volunteerism, these businesses become woven into the fabric of our towns.

That same spirit is what makes our annual Local Love Awards so special.

Every year, we ask our readers to nominate and vote for the people and businesses they believe truly stand out in our community.

The response continues to amaze us.

Thousands of votes poured in this year, and what stands out most isn’t simply who won but it’s the enthusiasm behind the nominations themselves. The messages and support are a reminder that local businesses matter deeply to the people who live here. Behind every small business is someone taking a risk, building relationships, and investing back into the community.

At a time when convenience often pulls us toward larger national brands, choosing to support local remains one of the most impactful things we can do.

To everyone featured in this issue, recognized in our Local Love Awards, advertising within these pages, or simply showing up every day to serve this community with passion and integrity — thank you. Your work does not go unnoticed.

And to our readers, thank you for continuing to support local storytelling and the businesses that make these towns so exceptional.

We hope this issue inspires you to discover someone new, revisit a favorite local spot, and continue celebrating the incredible people shaping our community every day.

LAURA SABIA, PUBLISHER @ DA R I E N N E WC A N A A N L I F E S T Y L E M AG

PUBLISHER

Laura Sabia | laura.sabia@citylifestyle.com P U B L I CAT I O N D I R E C TO R

Emma Parente | emma.parente@citylifestyle.com SAL E S S U P P O RT C O O R D I N ATO R

Andrea Alderson | andrea.alderson@citylifestyle.com C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Brook Road Photography, Hechler Photographers

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry COO David Stetler CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Mary Albers LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

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

Proverbs 3:5-6 Darien New Canaan Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Darien and New Canaan area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

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 New Canaan Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Rebecca Lerman Owner & Lead Planner

Be a guest at your own wedding.

Specializing in full-service wedding planning, so you and your family can be fully present on your wedding day, driven by intentional, story-driven design that brings your love story to life in every thoughtfully curated detail.

www.lermanweddingandevents.com 203-910-7942 | @lermanweddingandevents

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inside the issue JU LY 2 0 2 6 | EX P LO R E

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Featured

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Darien + New Canaan Lifestyle Local Love Awards YOUR FAVORITES

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Wholesome by Design

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Local Experiences

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A plant-based mompreneur reimagining convenient breakfasts with clean ingredients and inclusive options for every family

The best places and things to do in our area.

On the Cover

Departments

Jen Cohen ON THE PRACTICE OF ASKING FOR WHAT YOU WANT

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Lifestyle Letter

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City Scene

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Business Monthly

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Local’s Choice LIFE + CULTURE

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Inspired By FOOD + BEVERAGE

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Local Limelight LIFE + CULTURE

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Locally Sourced LOCAL SERVICES

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Must See LIFE + CULTURE

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Events

It’s Simple.

Work. Life. Balance.

CLOSETS • GARAGES • HOME OFFICES • ENTERTAINMENT CENTERS • WALL BEDS • WALL UNITS • LAUNDRY ROOMS • PANTRIES • CRAFT ROOMS • MUD ROOMS • WINE ROOMS

Call (203) 616-5847 for a free in-home 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 ©2026 Closet Factory. All rights reserved.

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city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

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1: St. Jude Staff 2: Marilena Greig with Emcees Coach and Yaz 3: John Morris and Gabby Eberscole 4: Monica and Michael Rome 5: Sarah Bamford, Coach and Yaz (emcees), Lucia Bamford 6: Committee members - Seth Bernstein, Jenn and Todd Eyler 7: Give to Live Gala 2026 Committee members Photography by Hechler Photographers

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8: St. Jude Give to Live Gala guests 9: Sponsor - Statewide Abstract Foundation Corp 10: St. Jude Give to Live Gala guests 11: St. Jude Give to Live Gala guests 12: Committee member Nicole Stark with friends 13: Auctioneer Trey Morris 14: St. Jude Give to Live Gala paddle raise Photography by Hechler Photographers CONTINUED >

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15: St. Jude patient family parents - Dr. Khurram Mehtabdin & Dr. Sarah Syed 16: Rubix Kube 17: St. Jude Give to Live Gala guests 18: St. Jude Give to Live Gala guests 19: St. Jude Give to Live Gala guests 20: St. Jude Give to Live Gala guests 21: Chair - Marilena Greig with wonderful guests!

Photography by Hechler Photographers

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22: St. Jude Give to Live Gala guests 23: St. Jude Give to Live Gala guests 24: Tanya Meyers, Sarah Bamford 25: St. Jude Give to Live Gala guests 26: Committee Member - Daisy McRandal with friends 27: St. Jude Give to Live Gala guests 28: emcee Yaz Photography by Hechler Photographers CONTINUED >

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city scene CONTINUED

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29: Alex Ranson, Whitney Ranson, John Henry Archer, Gail Kennedy Archer. 30: Yacht Rock Chairs: Sally Merwin, Lara Port, Danielle Craig. Board members of The Darien Foundation. 31: Sarah Woodberry, Laura Bremer, Paul Bremer 32: Hilary Thompson - Board Member of The Darien Foundation, Jessica Carreiro, Tara Desai 33: Kapil Desai, Stefanie Desai - Board member The Darien Foundation, Sarah Muecke, Stephen Muecke 34: David Hawes, Holly Hawes, Casey Lange, Brian Lange 35: Sarah Hunsberger, Holly Mitchell, Lara Port. Board members of The Darien Foundation.

Photography by The Darien Foundation

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TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ D A R I E N N E W C A N A A N L I F E S T Y L E M A G

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C I T Y SC E N E

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Therapy offers a supportive space to better understand yourself, strengthen relationships, and move toward meaningful change.

Helping You Feel More Connected to Yourself & Others

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Healthy & Sustainable Interiors Kitchen & Bath | Furniture | Windows Space Layout | Color & Finish Selections Interiors that seamlessly blend beautiful, healthy and sustainable materials.

Book a call today! www.katebrooksstudio.com • 475.329.0489

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business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

7th Annual Abilis Golf Scramble Benefitting Therapeutic Services for Adults The seventh annual Abilis Golf Scramble was held in June at Griffith E. Harris Golf Course in Greenwich, bringing together golfers of all levels for a day of friendly competition in support of Abilis. The scramble-format event featured on-course contests, community connection, and a BBQ lunch. Funds raised supported therapeutic services for adults, helping sustain social, recreational, and therapeutic programming for individuals with disabilities and their families.

MilkShake Factory Now Open in Darien MilkShake Factory expanded into Fairfield County with the opening of its newest Darien location at 410 Heights Road. Known for its handspun milkshakes and small-batch premium chocolates, the dessert brand celebrated the May 9th Grand Opening with buy-one-get-one-free desserts, giveaways, and complimentary T-shirts for the first 100 guests. The store is owned and operated by franchisee Scott Ackerman, who was drawn to the company’s family roots, customer-focused approach, and signature products.

East Norwalk Favorite Returns: Nik’s Place Nik’s Place reopened in May at 86 Gregory Boulevard in East Norwalk, ending a two-year closure for the longtime seasonal food stand. Owner Steve Kydes, who has operated the business for more than 25 years, brought back the popular spot after plans to sell the restaurant fell through. Nik’s Place has returned with its classic menu favorites and a few new additions, continuing its reputation as a multigenerational summertime tradition in Norwalk.

Want to be featured?

G E T I N T O U C H AT C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / D A R I E N N E W C A N A A N

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

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Personalized wellness every step of the way

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LOCAL LOVE AWARDS YOUR FAVORITES ARTICLE BY YOU, OUR DEAR READERS!

BEST CUSTOM HOME BUILDER: MATTERA CONSTRUCTION, Westport, CT, matteraconstruction.com BEST ARCHITECT: WADIA ASSOCIATES, 134 Main Street New Canaan, CT, wadiaassociates.com, @wadiaassociates; Established in 1976. Offices in New Canaan, Connecticut, and Palm Beach, FL. Known for an obsessive level of detail.

They don’t just design “houses”; they create estates and compounds that establish family legacies. Their approach integrates architecture, interior design, and landscape into a single, cohesive vision. Their clients are often looking for the grandeur of a historic manor but the functionality of a 21st-century smart home.

BEST INTERIOR DESIGNER: MORGAN HARRISON HOME, 523 White Oak Shade Road, New Canaan, CT, morganharrisonhome.com, @MORGANHARRISONHOME

BEST MEDICAL SPA & BEST FACIAL: ELEMENT MEDICAL AESTHETICS, 80 Main Street New Canaan, CT, elementct.com, @element.ct BEST COSMETIC SURGEON: ANYA KISHINEVSKY, MD, 148 East Ave, Ste 3H Norwalk, CT anyakishinevskymd.com, @dranyakishinevsky BEST DERMATOLOGIST: DR. ELLE DE MOLL, ELITE DERMATOLOGY PHYSICIANS, 38 East Ave, New Canaan, CT, elitedermatologyphysicians.com, @elitedermatologyphysicians: Dr. de Moll is the founder of a patient-focused dermatology practice specializing in complex cases with collaborative, resultsdriven care.

BEST ACUPUNCTURE: INDIGO WELLNESS GROUP, 66 Glenbrook Road, Suite 300, Stamford, CT | 212 Post Road West, Westport, CT, indigowellnessgroup.com, @indigowellnessgroup; Acupuncture, functional medicine, nutrition, pelvic floor PT, and more — collaborative care that connects the dots.

BEST HOME DECOR & FURNISHING: FOUND, 36 Elm Street, New Canaan, CT, foundanddesign.com, @Found.Design

BEST LASHES: THE USUAL LASH, 142 Heights Rd, Darien, CT, theusuallash.com, @theusuallash; The Usual Lash provides premium eyelash extensions, lifts, brow shaping, and professional beauty products.

BEST CUSTOM POOL DESIGNER: DRAKELEY POOL COMPANY, LLC, 74 Hickory Ln, Bethlehem, CT, drakeleypools.com, @drakeleypools, facebook.com/ drakeleypoolcompany

BEST NAIL SALON: POSH SPA & NAIL, 1077 Boston Post Rd, Darien, CT, poshct.com, @darienposhspa

BEST LANDSCAPER: DAVE’S LAWN SERVICE, Fairfield, CT

BEST CUSTOM FURNITURE: ORNARE, 34 E Putnam Avenue, Greenwich, CT, ornare. com, @ornaregreenwich; Leading Brazilian luxury design company with a 40-year tradition of craftsmanship, specialized in high-end and sophisticated tailor-made kitchens, closets and wall systems. Presence in the USA since 2006, with many showrooms across the country.

BEST BLOW DRY: BLOW & GLOW, 160 Main St, New Canaan, CT, blowandglowdrybar. com, @blowandglow.drybar

BEST HOME STORE: SHE LA LA, New Canaan, CT, shelala.com,@shopshelala

BEST FULL SERVICE SALON: EVA SCRIVO SALON, 56 Westchester Ave, Pound Ridge, NY, evascrivo.com, @evascrivosalons

BEST REALTOR: SCHUYLER M. MORRIS, BROWN HARRIS STEVENS, 183 Elm Street, New Canaan, CT, BrownHarrisStevens.com, @schuylermorrisrealestate, @schuyler.morris; Schuyler Morris is extremely dedicated to personalized service, local insight, and beautifully executed results, every step of the way.

BEST MEN’S SALON: HAMMER & NAILS, 88 Heights Rd, Darien, CT, hammerandnailsgrooming.com/location/ darien-ct/, @hammerandnailsgrooming

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENCY: THE VANDERBLUE TEAM, 1499 Post Rd, Fairfield, CT, vanderblue.com, @vanderblueteam

BEST ORTHODONTIST: ORTHODONTIC ASSOCIATES OF NEW CANAAN, 45 Pine St, New Canaan, CT, orthodonticassociatesofnewcanaan.com, @orthodonticassociatesnewcanaan

BEST DAY SPA & BEST MASSAGE: NEW BEAUTY AND WELLNESS, 128 Main St, New Canaan, CT, newbeautywellness.com, @newbeautywellness

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LOCA L’S CH OICE | L I FE + CU LT U RE

Luna & Charlie Events

BEST DENTIST: DENTAL SPECIALISTS OF DARIEN (DR. MARIE FALCONE & DR. WILLIAM ZAPATA), 24 Old Kings Highway South, Suite 102, Darien, CT, dentalspecialistsofdarien.com, @dentalspecialistsofdarien; A big thank you to the Darien/New Canaan communities and beyond for supporting our practice for over 60 years. We are honored to be chosen by you!! We will continue to serve you with exceptional advanced esthetic/ reconstructive and family dentistry!

BEST PEDIATRICIAN: DARIEN PEDIATRIC ASSOCIATES, 106 Noroton Ave Unit 3, Darien, CT, darienpediatrics.com BEST OPHTHALMOLOGIST/ OPTOMETRIST: PRO EYE CARE, 36 Old Kings Hwy S #110, Darien, CT, getproeyecare.com, @dr.innalazar BEST ORTHOPEDIC: HSS, 1 Blachley Road Stamford, CT, hss.edu, @hspecialsurgery BEST COFFEE SHOP: SILVERMINE COFFEE ROASTERS, 29 Harbor Ave, Norwalk, CT, silverminecoffee.com, @silverminecoffee; At Silvermine Coffee Roasters, we carefully roast specialty coffee all week long, bringing exceptional flavor and a richer coffee experience to enthusiasts across Fairfield County.

BEST BAKERY: RAPHAËL’S BAKERY, 370 Heights Road Darien CT, raphsbakery.com, @raphsbakery BEST BRUNCH: ELM, 73 Elm St, New Canaan, CT, elmrestaurant.com, @elmrestaurant BEST SMOOTHIE: BARVIDA, 879 Post Rd, Darien, CT thebarvida.com, @barvidajuicebar BEST FINE DINING: L’OSTAL, 22 Center St, Darien, CT, restaurantlostal.com, @restaurant__lostal BEST CASUAL DINING: THE GOOSE AMERICAN BISTRO & BAR, 972 Post Rd Darien, CT, goosedarien.com, @thegoosedarien; A Darien favorite for modern American dining, bold flavors, and exceptional private events.

The Meadowlands at the Darien Community Association, Bambi Riegel

BEST PIZZA: LOCALI, 32 Forest St, New Canaan, CT, localipizzabar.com, @localipizzabar BEST ICE CREAM SHOP: GELATISSIMO, 26 Forest St #2, New Canaan, CT, gelatissimoartisangelato.com, @gelatissimoartisangelato BEST BURGER: PRESS BURGER NEW CANAAN, 19 South Avenue, New Canaan CT, ThePressBurger.com, @ThePressBurger; New Canaan’s spot for clean, crave-worthy burgers, hot dogs, and fried chicken. Fine Fast Casual.

BEST LOBSTER & BEST OUTDOOR SEATING: ROWAYTON SEAFOOD, 89 Rowayton Ave, Norwalk, CT, rowaytonseafood.com, @rowaytonseafood BEST SUSHI: HASHI SUSHI, 11 Forest St, New Canaan, CT, hashisushict.com, @hashinewcanaan BEST HEALTH FOOD, BEST GRAB AND GO, BEST MEAL DELIVERY & MOST CREATIVE MENU: KINNEY LANE FOODS, 31 Vitti Street New Canaan, CT, kinneylane.com, @kinneylanefoods; Kinney Lane is redefining prepared food in Fairfield County with chef-driven meals, a curated market, and food you’re excited to come home to.

BEST MOCKTAILS: THE GRANOLA BAR, 1020 Boston Post Rd, Darien, CT, thegranolabar.com, @thegranolabar; The Granola Bar built its reputation reimagining brunch—and now brings that same hospitality-first approach to all-day dining.

Founded by Julie Mountain and Dana Noorily, the brand focuses on what makes people come back: how the room feels and service that’s genuine, not scripted. The Granola Bar delivers elevated, accessible food in spaces designed by operators who are, first and foremost, the customer.

BEST OUTDOOR BAR: SE UNCORKED, 15 Elm St, New Canaan, CT, uncorkedrestaurants.com, @southenduncorked BEST BAR: BLACKBIRD, 103 Elm St, New Canaan, CT, zhospitalitygroup.com/blackbird/home, @blackbirdnewcanaan BEST CATERER: ONTHEMARC EVENTS, 3 Duke Place, Norwalk CT, @onthemarcevents; ONTHEMARC creates memorable, well executed events using deliberate and mindful event planning, warm and caring service, and consistent menu delivery and execution.

BEST GOURMET GROCERY: PALMER’S MARKET, 264 Heights Rd, Darien, CT, palmersdarien.com, @palmersmarket; Considered a trendsetter in the industry, Palmer’s Market has been recognized in both national and international publications and has won over 31 “Best of” awards.

BEST CASUAL FOOD SPOT: ROOST KITCHEN + COFFEE, 1950 Post Road, Darien CT | 236 East Putnam Ave, Cos Cob CT | 2075 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield CT, heyroost.com, @heyroost; Roost Kitchen and Coffee specializes in seasonal, fresh, scratchmade food and coffee, including housemade syrups.

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BEST CHEF: CHEF PRASAD, 62 Main Street, New Canaan, CT, chefprasad.com, @chefprasad, facebook.com/chefprasadindiankitchen, facebook.com/prasad.chirnomula; Elevated, modern Indian cuisine rooted in tradition — thoughtfully sourced, in-house prepared, and unmistakably Chef Prasad. Chef Prasad has been a Fairfield County fixture for 35 years.

BEST FLORIST: EARTH GARDEN, 13 South Avenue New Canaan, CT, earthgardenflowers. com, @eathgardenflowers; Boutique flower shop inspired by the seasonal beauty of nature.

BEST JEWELER & BEST FINE JEWELRY: DAVID HARVEY JEWELERS, 995 Post Rd, Darien, CT, davidharvey.com, @davidharveyjewelers BEST EVERYDAY JEWELRY: PENNYWEIGHTS, 108 Elm St, New Canaan, CT, pennyweights. com, pennyweights.etsy.com, facebook.com/pennyweights, @pennyweightsjewelry; Pennyweights is celebrating 46 wonderful years in beautiful downtown New Canaan.

BEST GIFT STORE: THE WHITNEY SHOP, 100 Elm St #5406, New Canaan, CT, thewhitneyshop.com, @thewhitneyshopct BEST MEN’S FASHION STORE: DARIEN SPORT SHOP, 1127 Post Rd, Darien, CT, dariensportshop.com, @dariensportshop BEST EVENT DRESSES: HELEN AINSON, 23 Corbin Dr. Darien, CT, Helenainson.com, @helenainson; Helen Ainson is an award-winning destination for Mother of the Bride/Groom.

BEST CHILDREN’S STORE: WEE MONDINE, 35 Corbin Dr, Darien, CT, weemondine.com, @weemondine BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL: ST. LUKE’S SCHOOL, 377 North Wilton Road New Canaan, CT, stlukesct.org, @stlukesct @stlukesstorm @slsalumni; SLS is a secular (non-religious) private school for grades 5-12 serving over 40 towns in Connecticut and New York. SLS offers innovative Emerging Tech and Leadership core curricula and individualized Compass 1:1 Mentoring to help students discover their full potential.

BEST KIDS PROGRAM: SONGS FOR SEEDS, YWCA DARIEN/NORWALK - 49 Old Kings Hwy N, Darien, CT, @songsforseeds_tristate; Award-winning interactive music classes where babies through age 5 and caregivers sing, dance, play, and grow together!

BEST KIDS HAIRCUT: JUL’SALON, 123 Cherry St, New Canaan, CT, julshairsalon.com, @julsalon123 BEST ANIMAL HOSPITAL: PARK ANIMAL HOSPITAL, 168 Noroton Ave, Darien CT, parkanimalhospital.com, @parkanimalhospitaldarien; We are the only family owned and operated animal hospital in Darien.

BEST PET GROOMER: ANDERSON PET GROOMING, 408 Oakridge Cmns, South Salem, NY BEST PET STORE: PET PANTRY WAREHOUSE, 21 Grove St, New Canaan, CT, ppwpet.com, @ppwpet BEST VETERINARIAN: BESPOKE VETERINARY SERVICES, 105 Woodrow Ave, Southport, CT, bespokevetservice.com, @bespokevetservice BEST YOGA STUDIO: SAMA YOGA CENTER, 45 Grove St. New Canaan, CT, Samayogacenter. com, @samayogacenter; At Sama, our award-winning studio, academy, teachers, and children’s programs reflect a refined, elevated standard of care—thoughtfully designed to support strength, restoration, and lasting well-being.

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LOCA L’S CH OICE | L I FE + CU LT U RE

BEST NEW RESTAURANT (OPENED IN 2025): LOMBARDI’S, 32 Elm St, New Canaan, CT, lombardisnc.com, @lombardis_newcanaan BEST BARRE STUDIO: PURE BARRE DARIEN, 1958 Post Rd, Darien, CT, purebarre.com/location/darien-ct, @purebarredarien BEST LOCAL INFLUENCER: MEGAN A. SCHINELLA, campbymama.com, @meganschinella; Hi, I’m Megan, creator @meganschinella where I share motherhood humor, family adventures, fashion and style. I bring laughs and a positive outlook on parenthood. Off the gram, you can catch me at Pure Barre class, playing tennis or hockey. Life is all about family to me and I hope to inspire you.

BEST LOCAL PODCAST: HAYVN HUBCAST, HAYVN Coworking, 320 Boston Post Road, Suite 180 Darien CT & 1700 E. Putnam Ave. Suite 208, Greenwich CT, HAYVN.com, @HAYVNCoworking; A flexible workspace and community to thrive, feel inspired, supported, included, and continuously grow together.

BEST EVENT VENUE: THE MEADOWLANDS AT THE DARIEN COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, 274 Middlesex Rd, Darien, CT, dariendca.org, @dariendca; The Meadowlands at the Darien Community Association is a graceful Regency-style estate set on nearly eight acres in the heart of Darien. With more than 15 sunlit rooms, formal gardens, a grand lawn, and four acres of open green space, it serves as a cherished location for community, learning, and celebration.

BEST EVENT PLANNER: LUNA & CHARLIE EVENTS, lunaandcharlie.com, @lunaandcharlieevents; Story-driven event planning and design, creating seamless, elevated, unforgettable celebrations.

BEST BANK: DARIEN BANK & TRUST, 777 Post Rd, Darien, CT, ccbankonline.com BEST NEW BUSINESS (OPENED IN 2025): ON BROOKSIDE, New Canaan, CT, onbrookside.com, @onbrookside; Elevated tabletop rentals and event design for unforgettable gatherings across Connecticut and New York.

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WHOLESOME

BY DE SIG N A plant-based mompreneur reimagining convenient breakfasts with clean ingredients and inclusive options for every family

For MAJA Food founder Mackenzie, food has always been personal. Long before launching her plant-based brand, she was experimenting in the kitchen as a teenager, drawn to baking and recipe development. Years later, after transitioning to a vegan lifestyle, she began adapting recipes to fit her own dietary needs and quickly noticed how limited the market felt for people navigating allergies, dietary restrictions, or simply looking for healthier, more functional options.

“I realized how difficult it could be to find products that checked all the boxes,” she says. “Especially options that were convenient, tasted good, and still used wholesome ingredients.”

That realization eventually became MAJA Food, a wellness-driven brand focused on high-protein overnight oats and allergen-friendly baking mixes designed to simplify busy mornings without sacrificing quality. Mackenzie officially made the leap into entrepreneurship while expecting her second child, seeking greater flexibility beyond her previous career in law.

Today, MAJA’s overnight protein oats stand out for their clean ingredient profile, portability, and nutritional value, offering 20 grams of protein and 6 grams of fiber per serving. Designed with busy professionals and parents in mind, the single-serve pouches can be prepared directly in the bag with water or milk for an easy grab-and-go breakfast.

ARTICLE BY LAURA SABIA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BROOK ROAD PHOTOGRAPHY

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I NSP IR E D BY | FO O D + BE VE RAGE

MACKE NZIE ’ S

Morning Musts

FAVORITE WAY TO ENJOY MAJA OATS: Mixed with yogurt and topped with fresh fruit.

BEST PART OF BUILDING THE BRAND: Creating products she feels proud to serve her own family.

CURRENT WELLNESS FOCUS: High-protein, high-fiber foods with simple ingredients.

LOCAL LOVE: Early support from Palmer’s Market and wellness businesses throughout the community helped MAJA grow organically.

MISSION BEHIND THE BRAND: To create inclusive, nourishing pantry staples everyone can enjoy regardless of dietary restrictions or lifestyle choices.

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“Our goal is to create products people feel good about eating and serving to their families,” Mackenzie explains. “I wanted to build something I’d feel genuinely happy feeding my own kids.”

That philosophy extends beyond convenience. MAJA’s baking mixes are gluten-free, plant-based, and allergen-friendly, a combination Mackenzie felt was largely missing from the market. The brand also avoids refined sugars, preservatives, and artificial flavors, prioritizing simple ingredients consumers can recognize and trust.

While balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship hasn’t come without challenges, Mackenzie says the mission behind MAJA continues to fuel her growth. Inspired in part by her father’s

battle with cancer, she remains deeply passionate about creating nourishing pantry staples while giving back through organizations focused on food insecurity and childhood hunger.

And locally, the support has been meaningful. Businesses like Palmer's Market, along with community partners including local fitness studios and wellness spaces, helped introduce MAJA to new audiences early on.

For Mackenzie, the vision has always been about more than food alone.

“Family and food go hand in hand,” she says. “No one should have to feel excluded from those moments.”

“Our goal is to create products people feel good about eating and serving to their families,” Mackenzie explains. “I wanted to build something I’d feel genuinely happy feeding my own kids.”

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I NSP IR E D BY | FO O D + BE VE RAGE

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Dr. Anna & Dr. Michaela

JULY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/DA RI E N N E WCA N A A N

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ARTICLE BY LESLIE KUMAR

ASK LESLIE Welcome back to Ask Leslie! By the time you’re reading this, I’ll have returned from a trip to Illinois to visit my dad, a visit that was overdue. It brought me back to a question from the April column, from a reader navigating life as an adult child of divorced parents living in different states. She shared how much closer she feels to her mom, and how difficult it can be to make the trip to see her dad.

It stayed with me, likely because it felt so familiar. And in a bit of a plot twist, I found myself taking my own advice! I booked the ticket.

It had been nine months since my last visit. My dad isn’t able to travel to me, which made the decision feel simple and like something I should have done sooner (guilt trip)!

It’s experiences like this one that bring me back to why I started this column. My hope has always been that something here resonates, that a question or answer offers the feeling of being understood.

What I didn’t quite expect, however, is how sometimes your questions would reflect pieces of my own life.

You never really know where something will lead. But! I do know how grateful I am to be here, figuring it out alongside you.

In this month’s issue, all the questions circle a similar theme: relationships get complicated when unspoken expectations take over.

As always, thanks for reading! xx Leslie

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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L I FE + CU LT U RE

A family friend recently confided over lunch that my brother-in-law owes her $10,000. My husband hasn’t said a word to his brother. She wonders if there was a misunderstanding, whether it was a loan or a gift, but either way, it doesn’t sit well with me. Do I stay out of it or suggest that my husband step in?

Dear Bothered, Money is already complicated.

Part of me suspects your family friend brought this up at lunch deliberately. It may have been her way of hoping you or your husband would step in and say something. Still, I don’t think getting involved here is the right move.

For one, your brother-in-law likely has no idea you’re aware of this situation. Bringing it up could put him in an uncomfortable position and create tension.

This is between your family friend and your husband’s brother.

If she’s concerned about the money, the most straightforward path is for her to reach out to him directly and clarify what the agreement actually was. If you feel comfortable, you can gently encourage her to do just that.

It’s hard to imagine someone simply forgetting a $10,000 loan.

But if there’s any ambiguity, a direct conversation is the only way to clear it up.

-Leslie My neighbor, who I consider myself friendly with, has a beautiful home on our lovely cul de sac. She doesn't take care of her property outside her fence, which is still her property, and she’s aware of that.

She’s even told me I can do whatever I want with it. I’ve been trying to keep the peace and have been paying my landscapers to manicure that area. How do I address this in a kind, non-bossy way? This has been an issue for five years and I’m getting tired of it.

Dear in the Weeds, This feels like a “how did this become my job?” issue.

The tricky part is that over five years, a pattern has been created and your neighbor likely assumes the arrangement works because, well… it has. Especially since you’ve been kind enough to handle it without fuss. So if you suddenly come in frustrated, she may be caught off guard.

Instead of approaching this as a confrontation, I’d approach it as an update.

Keep it light, direct, and neighborly: “Hey! I wanted to mention that I’m probably going to stop having my landscapers maintain that area moving forward. Since it’s part of your property, I figured I’d give you a heads up so you can add it to your landscaping schedule if you’d like.”

No passive aggression.

If she already has landscapers maintaining the rest of her property, there’s no reason they can’t extend the cleanup a few extra feet.

Also, you do not need to wait for the area to become overgrown before saying something. You’re allowed to set a boundary before you reach the point of total annoyance.

-Leslie Want to submit a question to Ask Leslie? DM Leslie directly on Instagram (and follow along!): ask_leslie_official. All submissions are confidential and anonymous.

JULY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/DA RI E N N E WCA N A A N

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ARTICLE BY MEGAN SCHINELLA

Local Experiences T H E B E S T P L AC E S A N D T H I N G S TO D O I N O U R A R E A .

1. Located in the heart of downtown Hotel Viking is one of the city’s most iconic luxury hotels. Blending classic Gilded Age charm with amenities including a spa, indoor pool, and roof top bar. The five-story property is a landmark to the city’s historic hospitality scene.

2. Ocean Edge Resort is a premier Cape Cod destination offering historic elegance, private beach access, golf, and classic coastal charm. Set on a sprawling bay front and unforgettable Cape Cod sunsets.

3. The Brant is a boutique hotel located just a short walk from downtown Nantucket and nearby beaches. The property is close enough to the beach, shops, restaurants, and harbor.

4. The Whaler’s Inn is one of Mystic’s most charming boutique stays in the heart of downtown Mystic, just steps from the iconic drawbridge, waterfront shops, and restaurants. Spread across five restored buildings, it blends coastal character with modern luxury, and river views.

5. Saybrook Point Resort & Marina waterfront boutique resort in Old Saybrook, Connecticut, known for its marina views. It feels more upscale and relaxing, with amenities like a spa, indoor/outdoor pools, and waterfront seafood restaurant Fresh Salt.

Megan Schinella Everything is fine when there is sunshine! The Summer season is upon us, so grab your crew and tackle our bucket list recommendations to check off before one of our favorite seasons comes to an end!

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Discover the SLS Difference.

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©Each office is independently owned and operated. E.O.E.

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ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

The 10% Target Mindset

MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE

Jen Cohen ON THE PRACTICE OF ASKING FOR WHAT YOU WANT

Winnipeg in the winter, and a 17-year-old waits 45 minutes in the cold for Keanu Reeves. Her fingers are numb. She is not there for an autograph. She is there to ask him to appear in her audition tape for MuchMusic, Canada’s MTV. When he finally agrees, she writes her number on a gum wrapper with a borrowed lip liner.

He calls days later.

That 17-year-old was Jen Cohen — fitness expert, host of the Habits & Hustle podcast, and best-selling author. She has built a career on the premise her frostbitten afternoon proved. She calls the practice the 10% Target: 10 attempts at whatever you want most in life.

The premise is simple. Most people never make one attempt. Almost nobody makes two. The math works in favor of the person who keeps going.

The top-rated Habits & Hustle podcast has logged hundreds of conversations with high performers and the people who study what the body does to the mind. Her TEDx talk, The Secret to Getting Anything You Want in Life, has traveled widely inside Fortune 500 sales-training rooms. On the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Cohen sits down to share the working rules that are the foundation of her latest book, Bigger, Better, Bolder.

“You have to be the CEO of your own life.”

F E AT U R I N G JEN COHEN Discover the full 10% Target Mindset framework.

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M UST SE E | L I FE + C ULTU RE

1 2 3 4

MAKE TEN ATTEMPTS The door opens, or another door does. The unmade attempt and the refused one leave you in the same place — except one of them teaches you something.

STACK THE DECK Cohen frames her habits as a wager: How do I stack the deck so I win more than I lose? The workout happens first, and the food decisions follow. The email follow-up gets sent, and the answer arrives. The choices compound in a single direction.

DISCIPLINE IS A PRACTICED SKILL, NOT AN INHERITANCE No one is born with it. The people who look disciplined are running a routine they have rehearsed long enough that it no longer feels like effort. The reps are the skill. Miss them, and the skill fades, the same as any other.

SELF-TALK ONLY WORKS WHEN THE BODY BACKS IT UP Confidence does not arrive by repeating the word.

It arrives after the body has done the thing — the workout finished, the cold walk endured, the email sent. The mind takes its cues from what the body proves it can do. Talk follows action, not the other way around.

5

NEVER MISS A MONDAY The first decision sets the slope of the rest.

Skip the Monday workout, and the rest of the week tends to follow. Hold the line on Monday, and the slope tilts the other way.

JULY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/DA RI E N N E WCA N A A N

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J U LY 2 0 2 6

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S JU LY 2 N D

Fourth of July Mocktails Grace Farms | 6:30 PM Kick off the holiday weekend with a creative evening crafting delicious seasonal mocktails. In this special Fourth of July-themed class, follow Chef Leah’s recipes to mix vibrant and refreshing beverages inspired by Grace Farms Tea & Coffee. When you’re done mixing and mingling, bring home the evening’s recipes to make at your next summer celebration!

JU LY 4 T H

New Canaan Fireworks Celebration Waveny Park | 5:00 PM Grab your picnic blanket and beach chair and join your New Canaan neighbors as we gather to celebrate our Nation's birthday with festive music, food trucks and fireworks! Enjoy bouncy houses, food trucks and live music!

JU LY 1 0 T H

Darien Town Fireworks 2026 Darien High School | 6:00 PM Celebrate summer with the unforgettable Darien Town Fireworks! Bring your family, friends, blankets, and lawn chairs. Enjoy delicious food trucks, family-friendly activities, and plenty of festive excitement. As the sun sets, get ready for a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the night sky. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a magical summer night together in Darien!

CONTINUED >

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EVE N TS

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events

CONTINUED

JULY 12TH

Cars & Coffee Darien Goodwives Shopping Center | 7:00 AM Join Cars & Coffee Darien for their July event, when they will be featuring vehicles made by Ford and those that are Ford powered. As usual, all make and models are welcome! Come on down and enjoy a diverse display of classic, sports, and exotic cars, bikes, and trucks.

JULY 15TH

Waveny Summer Concert Series - Doug Allen Waveny Park (Back Lawn) | 7:30 AM Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy an evening of live music at Waveny Park! Doug Allen is a Connecticut native with a rich alt-country sound inspired by Nashville roots.

Combining his love of nature and music, he enjoys sharing his songs with audiences of all kinds.

JULY 25TH

Summer Stroll Grace Farms | 11:00 AM Take a guided walk through the Grace Farms landscape to experience the beauty of summer in full bloom. Immersive and laid-back, this walk invites you to notice the shifting signs of the season and discover the vibrant plant and animal life that makes this landscape so special. Along the way, explore the purpose and interconnectedness of surrounding ecosystems.

Want to be featured?

G E T I N T O U C H AT CIT YLIFEST YLE .COM/ DARIENNEWCANA AN

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EVE N TS

Refined. Timeless. Designed for Impact.

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