Fairfield, CT March 2024

HOME + DESIGN

HIGH DESIGN AND HOSPITALITY WITH CHRISTIAN P. ÁRKAY-LELIEVER

SELLERS, prices are reaching new highs as inventory is still tight. The pent up demand keeps multiplying. Word is out that Fairfield and Southport are incredible. You don’t have to sit on the sidelines because you don’t know where you’re moving next. I want to bring you top dollar with a closing date that works with your schedule.

BUYERS, with interest rates on the decline and many new builds and renovations nearing completion in our area, now is your chance to pounce on fresh properties. Buy in spring and move just in time for summer. This time you’ll get the house! I have a winning strategy for you!

THE #1 IN ORTHOPEDICS MEANS SPINE CARE WHEN YOU NEED IT

HSS, the world’s #1 in orthopedics according to Newsweek, collaborates with Stamford Health to provide quick access to advanced care in Connecticut for back and neck conditions. The HSS Spine Center with Stamford Health offers appointment availability within 72 hours, and our dedicated Care Navigator will create a personalized care plan for each patient’s journey. Now you can get back to moving better, and doing what you love, sooner.

Learn more at HSS.edu/StamfordHealth

March 2024 Publishers Letter

Home. So much contained in that little four letter word. Home is our grounding. Our base. Our launchpad. It’s where we start and end each day. And while the particulars look different for each of us, the meaning and value it holds for all of us is undeniable.

Author Wendy Wunder said, “The magic thing about home is that it feels good to leave, and it feels even better to come back.”As we thought about home - we wanted to highlight what makes it special to our readers. That of course includes the food and drinks, the aesthetic and design, but most importantly - the people.

When I think of home, I think about my family. I think about how our family always made it a point to have dinner together every night of the week, no matter how busy the day, To me that’s what a home is all about.

We feel like the lucky ones as we got to learn more about the businesses and individuals that comprise this city and hope the small lens into their lives and work brings people in this community together.

As you flip through the pages of this issue, we hope you’ll feel encouraged and connected to the people around you - in your city, neighborhood and most all of - your home.

Every month, we hear from readers who keep this magazine for longer than just the month labeled on the cover. They say they hold onto it for months as coffee table art or an accessory in their home. We feel proud to create a resource that is valued in our community and strive every month to deliver the value you expect. Thanks for letting us be a part of your home.

Happy March!

BRUCE BERNSTEIN, PUBLISHER @FAIRFIELDLIFESTYLEMAGAZINE

Bruce

Pam

IT'S PLASMA, BABY!

with PLASMA PEN

by LOUISE WALSH INTERNATIONAL

Plasma pen delivers a brighter, more contoured youthful appearance to the skin. The results of the treatment are virtually immediate and incredibly long lasting without the need for fillers or surgical correction. Plasma pen technology is revolutionizing what is possible in skin revitalization, tone and texture. Dr. Gould strives to bring her clients the latest innovation and was the first physician in Connecticut to bring Plasma Pen to her practice.

Jackie

Jackie

city scene

Sticks for Soldiers Thanksgiving Lacrosse Classic for Wounded Servicemen and their Families, 2023 Honoree, Reda Said. 1: Port 5 Honor Guard 2: Ron Farina, Reda Said, Sofia Bendok, Bob Vitale and James L. Campbell, Jr. 3: Host lacrosse program Ludlowe vs Weston. 2 of the 32 particpating high school lacrosse programs. 4: Mid-day honoree ceremony 5: Event location Rafferty Stadium: Girl’s lacrosse 6: Honoree banner 7: Event location Ludlowe High School Taft Field Photography by Edward Iannone

Fairfield Chamber of Commerce Coffee Connect at BE Chocolat 8: Lisa Cooper, Sylvie Fortin and Margret Reynolds 9: Sylvie Fortin, Kelly Maffei. Debbi O’Keefe, Sheila Oppenheimer, and Christine Vitale 10: Ronald Holtz , Leigh Overland and John Kizildag 11: Beverly Balaz Cara Mocarski and Peter Swetckie 12: Peter Swetckie, Joseph Jaffe and Andrea Hance 13: Kelly Solway, Benoit Racquet, Beverly Balaz and Nicole Kelman 14: Taylor Benedict and Erika Burling Photography by Katelyn Thaler, Sylvie Fortin and Julia Morin

The DRIPBaR Fairfield Grand Opening Party 15: Doug Hela, Wes Arnett and Michael Reyes 16: April VillaSenor and Christina Wood 17: Nicole Whalberg, Lee Nelson, Stephanie Solerti, Cheryl Gardner and Tara Kovach 18: Tara Kovach and Nicole Walberg 19: Michael Usiak, Stephanie Solerti and Michael Reyes 20: Maria Usiak, Lauren McBride and Marissa Brackett 21: Michelle Horn and Dana Pellegrino

OUR NAME IS OUR REPUTATION

Fairfield Beach Orthodontics

Do you smile with your mouth closed or hide your teeth from certain angles? Did you stop wearing your retainers, and now your teeth have shifted? Schedule your complimentary consultation today and get back to smiling confidently! Dr. Landin is a board-certified orthodontist and top Invisalign® clear aligners provider in Fairfield. Believing the details matter when creating your dream smile, she focuses on customizing treatment to achieve each individual’s best results. fairfieldbeachortho.com

Photography provided by Fairfield Beach Orthodontics

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Bailey

Bailey

newborn-size 8. We also carry baptismal wear, first communion dresses, suits, baby blankets, bibs, shoes, select toys, and more. All the clothes are hand-selected from companies in the United States and the U.K. Follow us on Instagram @baileyjaymes23. We are in Heritage Square Plaza (next to Italian Kitchen) at 1700 Post Rd Fairfield (203) 999-0060.

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Alchemy, the Salon

Alchemy, the Salon is a full-service, adult-only hair salon just outside downtown Fairfield. The salon is female & minority owned, with a lofty NYC vibe. The space exudes love and creativity; the attention to detail and client care are unmatched. Our exceptional stylists specialize in custom color and cuts that leave you feeling refreshed & ready to take on the world. We invite you to come as you are, get cozy, and leave better. alchemythesalon.com

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Photography by Eleanor Kent

Photography by Beauty in Chaos Photography

Elicit Brewing

Get ready for your new favorite hangout spot.  Elicit Brewing at 111 Black Rock Turnpike offers beer brewed in house, tons of guest taplines, cocktails, mocktails, food, games, live music, private event space, and more!  The vibe is elevated and eclectic and you’ll find that there is something for everyone and for every occasion.  Fairfield is not your average town and this is not your average brewery.  Come see what the fuss is about. elicitbrewing.com

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Gavali Salon

Gavali Salon recently celebrated ten years in business this January 2024! Our new sister salon, La Flor Salon Di Gavali, also turned 1 in January.

Photography by Winter Caplanson

Both Salons are located on the Post Rd. in Fairfield, CT, and offer hair services for all genders and ages! We specialize in coloring, highlighting, and haircuts for men, women, and children. We also provide hair extensions, special occasion styling, and chemical services. gavalisalon.com

Jean Elton

Jean Elton is a Fairfield, CT-based studio that makes hand-crafted ceramic art and design objects. Jean Elton is the husband-and-wife team of Lois Jean and William Elton Barker. Lois loves creating beautiful objects in 3-D; Bill enjoys the engineering. “We love making ceramic vessels going beyond symmetrical objects with earthy glazes that characterize most pottery.” The company’s website features a section entitled “Fairfield, CT”. The Round Hill Pottery Collective also works at the Studio.

Photography

Photography

CREATIVE DIRECTOR CHRISTIAN P. ÁRKAY-LELIEVER

High Design and Hospitality

ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA SCHOENGOLD BERANBOM

Photo by: John Videler Photography

You may not yet know the name Christian P. Árkay-Leliever, Founder and Creative Director of his namesake Fairfield-based design firm, ÁrkayLeliever, LLC. Still, you’ve seen his incredible work around town and beyond. Christian is the design force that created gorgeous spaces such as Henry C. Reid, Geronimo, BE Chocolat, and one of his latest wow designs - Esh Modern Mediterranean. Although he’s typically behind the scenes, it was a pleasure to have the chance to discuss his creativity and the large-scale projects he produces.

Q: WHAT AN IMPRESSIVE PORTFOLIO. YOUR TALENT AND EXCITEMENT TRANSLATES WITHIN THE WALLS OF ALL YOUR PROJECTS. IS THAT WHAT MAKES YOU UNIQUE IN THIS INDUSTRY?

A:  I live and breathe hospitality. I love the culinary arts and am passionate about creating environments and brand experiences for people.

Q: WHERE DO YOU DRAW INSPIRATION  FROM? HOW DO YOU ACCESS THAT  CREATIVITY AND HOW DO KEEP IT FLOWING?

A: Every day, I draw inspiration from my experiences, people, and talents I admire, such as chefs, architects, and even other designers. The places, the conversations, and the visual stimulation one receives daily are significant. My travels impact me the most. I’ve been fortunate to experience other countries, cultures, cuisines, environments, architecture, and design. However, even a simple commute to NYC for business or pleasure always helps to maintain the flow. It’s all in the moments. I make a great effort to pay attention to the details surrounding me on an ongoing basis.

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The SeaGrille

Photo provided by The SeaGrille

Q: HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR  OVERALL AESTHETIC AND DOES IT EVOLVE  WITH EACH PROJECT?

A: It’s not so much my aesthetic that is developed but an “aesthetic” that is derived and influenced by the brand itself and what ownership looks to create for the end user. For me, fashion, art, cultural inspiration, materiality, craft, and technology are all influences, and the aesthetic inherently changes with time and, therefore, with each project. However, I sometimes carry signature elements that I truly love through projects with enough adaption to make them unique for that particular client.

H Salon photo provided by CP Árkay-Leliever

Geronimo Photo provided by Geronimo Hospitality Co.

Q: CAN YOU SHARE SOME OF THOSE SIGNATURE ELEMENTS?

A: Again, they change over time, but one material that I’ve grown to appreciate is that of woven metals and chain loop. I’ve been able to source woven metals to use as room dividers, for instance, captured within a blackened custom steel frame that we design and fabricate or the back of a soffit bottle shelf where one may typically use glass. I’ve used a woven spiral metal product as curtains for an architectural detail up to 18’ tall, which, to one’s surprise, actually does soften the visual of a static or otherwise nondescript backdrop. Lastly and most recently, I had the opportunity at the new H Salon to custom print their new logo on a hanging chain loop product, which was the solution for three challenges we faced.

Q: THERE MUST BE A LOT OF VERY SPECIFIC NECESSITIES THAT NEED TO BE CONSIDERED WHEN DESIGNING FOR A BUSINESS - THE NEEDS OF A HAIR SALON, THE REQUIREMENTS OF A RESTAURANT. DOES FORM TYPICALLY FOLLOW FUNCTION FOR MOST PROJECTS?

A: Yes, function is ultimately the key consideration when starting any project; however, I work hard to ensure the design is not compromised when creating solutions. Starting a new project is more about starting a relationship with the client and creating a design dialogue. This is a study into the client’s culture and the brand and reviewing the project’s main objectives.

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Materia Photo by Julian Focareta

Q: BECAUSE OF THOSE INHERENT  PARAMETERS WHAT HAS BEEN A LESSON LEARNED DURING THESE HUGE UNDERTAKINGS?

A: Communication and relationships are the most critical aspects of any project. The lesson I have to learn over and over is to trust my gut. In the business of design, listening and being honest about expectations from the very start and throughout the project is absolutely crucial to success. Responsibilities, budgets, and third-party expectations must be made clear and agreed upon by all involved. Ownership must be well-informed and sometimes guided by the designer, vendors, and trades to truly understand the impact of various elements on a project. This is true for all parties involved in crafting any successful product or project. This includes me as the creative director, the client, the general contractor, and every trade and vendor related to the build-out.

The outcome is a culmination of good communication and understanding of the client’s needs, desires of quality levels, and, of course, the end-user experience.

Q: CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT SOME NOTABLE PROJECTS?

A:  For Esh, we created a landscape that truly brings the outside in. We lined the center of the restaurant with natural birch trees surrounded by real stone - emphasized by thoughtfully designed lighting. At BE Chocolat, the movable glass and steel walls, mobile furniture, and even movable power are the inherent assets of the space that offer ownership multiple solutions for a host of venue needs and desires. Creating Geronimo was through thoughtful attention to materials such as hand-crafted tile, lighting, and artifacts, paired with a custom-crafted bar and adobe wood-burning fireplace to finally, an unexpected and entertaining live scorpion table.

Henry C. Reid Jewelers

Photo by Jane Beiles

Christian P. Árkay-Leliever at the bar at Esh.

Photo by: John Videler Photography

Q: EVEN THOUGH COMMERCIAL DESIGN IS  DRASTICALLY DIFFERENT THAN RESIDENTIAL  DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE THAT OUR READERS COULD INCORPORATE INTO THEIR HOMES WHEN STARTING A BIG PROJECT?

A: Make sure you have a clear understanding of your needs vs desires, then focus on creating a plan that addresses the space and functional requirements within your budget first. You can add from there and build a contingency for unexpected costs and delays. Be prepared for “scope creep,” where the list of additional implemented desires during construction can cause surprising budget and schedule overages.

Q: CAN YOU DISCUSS ANY UPCOMING  PROJECTS OR COLLABORATIONS THAT YOU ARE PARTICULARLY EXCITED ABOUT?

A: I just finished the new H Salon in Greenfield Hill and am completing a brewery/restaurant, The Haven Beer Co., in Hamden. In addition to a few ongoing projects in other states, I am starting three new restaurants here in Connecticut: one in a local casino, one in Newtown, and another here in town with Fairfield’s own RGR Hospitality Group.

Q: WHAT DO YOU FIND MOST REWARDING  ABOUT YOUR WORK?

A: It’s great for me when a client refers me to a new client or invites me back for another project. I also enjoy hearing from friends and acquaintances who have visited a space I designed and share that they had an amazing experience. However, the most rewarding and fulfilling aspect of my work is when a client becomes a good friend.

arkay-leliever.com @cparkayleliever

Mrs. London’s

Photo provided by CP Árkay-Leliever

ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA SCHOENGOLD BERANBOM PHOTOGRAPHY BY NEW LIGHT CREATIVE SERVICES

DREAM HOME

A Fairfield Family Renovates Their 85 Year Old Home.

The use of Jurassic granite as the backsplash and the mimicking of the arches found in the rest of the house makes a beautiful statement.

Fairfield resident Alyssa Kent is an architect who has spent most of her career in real estate development, building multifamily and mixed-use buildings and doing historic renovations in the TriState area. With a natural love of renovation, Alyssa slowly began the search for that special home to renovate when her family was clearly growing out of their former house. She notes, “Our incredible realtor, Andrea Viscuso, knew exactly what we were looking for and was a key partner in the process.” They embarked on another vintage find in Stratfield Village.

CONTINUED >

The family’s dream kitchen balances room to cook, eat, and entertain but is also comfortable enough for homework and crafts.

The light filled family room is even more vibrant now with the vaulted ceiling.

Alyssa in in the kitchen which connects all of the other rooms on the first floor.

Lucky to once again land in one of the most charming areas in all of Fairfield, Alyssa took her inspiration for the reno from their beautiful historic street, “Each house is quite unique and beautiful while all feeling like they belong together. The roof pitch, cedar shakes, brick detailing, and color choices were all chosen with the intention to fit in, more than to stand out.”

Juxtaposing classic details and charm with modern family living was essential and ultimately impactful. The goal was to create clean, light-filled spaces that were beautiful but functional. “Real people live here, and the house should reflect that,” says Alyssa. She prefers rooms that speak to each other through color and pattern - rather than an open concept. And although she still would

The beautiful moody dining room.

The goal was to create clean, light-filled spaces that were beautiful but functional.

“Real people live here, and the house should reflect that,” says Alyssa. She prefers rooms that speak to each other through color and pattern - rather than an open concept.

like to add in more layers in some of the spaces with wallpaper, drapes, and accessories, she has established a palate of hues and textures in each room that relates to the overall vision.

One unexpected decision - to have the roof in the family room reframed after discovering it was in terrible shape, impacted their original budget. But it gave way to a happy accident, the

With tree top views, Alyssa maximized space by building her daughter's bed into the dormer.

“The Stratfield neighborhood, in particular, has the best vibe and a real sense of community. Our kids play with their friends in the street and ride bikes to the park together, and there are lots of incredible community events in the neighborhood that make this such a special place to live.”

The gorgeous sink basin elevates the tiny powder room.

opportunity to open the ceiling to be vaulted, creating the perfect sun-drenched family room. Another surprise was the space created by opening the 2nd floor stairs and hallway into the 3rd floor – essentially creating a foyer in the bedroom area of the house. “I knew this space would feel unique, but underestimated how light and airy it would feel and how well it would work to make the bedrooms feel connected,” delights Alyssa.

Alyssa admits that renovating can be challenging, with chaos, disappointments, and a lot of stress. Even knocking the house down and starting from scratch may have been easier. “There were plenty of frustrations along the way- everything from zoning amendments to things not fitting as intended, to budget busts, but in the end, we feel incredibly fortunate to be living here – a house that is perfectly suited for our family.” Alyssa is grateful. Raising her family here is extraordinary - a college and beach town with a robust, vibrant hamlet. “The Stratfield neighborhood, in particular, has the best vibe and a real sense of community. Our kids play with their friends in the street and ride bikes to the park together, and there are lots of incredible community events in the neighborhood that make this such a special place to live.” Especially in their beautiful dream home.

Another bedroom is large and lofty and perfect for a pre-teen to grow into.

PARRILLADA DE MARISCOS

Tablao Wine Bar & Restaurant

Tapas Temptations

The mood is always set at Tablao Wine Bar & Restaurant in downtown Fairfield for a feast with friends. The delicious cuisine transports guests to Spain, offering authentic tapas, classic Spanish fare, a comprehensive wine selection, and their notable signature drinks. Here, they share one of their popular entrees to try at home.

TOOLS

• utility knife

• mixing bowl

• sauteed pan or flat grilled

• large wooden spoon

• metal tongs

INGREDIENTS

• 5 Jumbo Shrimp

• 4 whole medium size calamari

• Boneless branzino filet ( 8 oz )

• 1/4 red bell pepper

• 1 tsp of dry sherry wine

• 1 tsp of white vinegar

• 1 tsp of shallots

• 1 tsp of garlic

• Tbsp of olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 3 baby carrots

• 1/4 broccoli crown

• 1/4 cauliflower crown

DIRECTIONS

1. Steam the vegetables for 2 minutes and set them aside.

2. In a mixing bowl mix the sherry vinegar, white vinegar, red bell pepper, shallots, olive oil (red bell pepper vinaigrette).

3. Coat the branzino fillet, shrimp and calamari with olive oil, salt and pepper.

4. Heat up the flat grilled or saute pan on medium heat.

5. Once the flat grill is hot, place the seafood and pan sear for 2 minutes then flip and cook for another two minutes.

6. On a separate pan add the olive oil,  garlic, salt and pepper to your taste and let it cook until the garlic gets golden and through the vegetables. Cook for 2 minutes.

7. On a dinner plate, place the sautéed vegetables in the center, then place the seafood around the vegetables.

8. Drizzle the entire dish with the red bell pepper vinaigrette. ¡Buen provecho!

“When customers have a pleasant experience - that’s the most rewarding feeling we could ever have.”

ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA SCHOENGOLD BERANBOM PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN VIDELER PHOTOGRAPHY

KEITH

Essay types include:

Common Application Essays

Supplements

Short-answer Questions

Transfer Essays

Scholarship Essays

Personal Statements

Parent Letters of Support

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(@)

Harvard University

New York University

University of Pennsylvania

Designer’s Notebook

Elana Tenenbaum Cline

Founder + Creative Director, Carta Creatives carta-creatives.com

Dining Room:

Designer Tip: A flat weave rug is great for a dining room to add pattern + softness. I prefer smaller, tighter patterns (versus larger ones), which help add texture to the room. The larger pattern can get lost under a dining room table (and solid colors will show more stains!) Think about color - mid tones and dark are again better for dining rooms in case of spills. Also, remember, pulling chairs in and out is harder to do with a thicker carpet. Always measure and think about how the space is intended to be used. This client hosts large gatherings on holidays and wanted to be able to seat extended family members, so we accommodated for a table with an extension. Bonus tip: Add a different end chair to mix things up. Use heavier larger chairs with arms for the end chairs. From a hierarchical perspective, it balances out the number of middle chairs with two ‘bookends.’

A CURATED ROUND-UP OF THE BEST ADVICE FROM THE AREA’S DESIGN EXPERTS.

ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA SCHOENGOLD BERANBOM

Whether you are a novice decorator or a seasoned home enthusiast - take a peek into the knowledgeable, creative minds of these design mavens and learn their secrets for turning a space into a masterpiece.

Carta Creatives

Photo by Kyle J. Caldwell

Elana Tenenbaum Cline, Founder + Creative Director Carta Creatives, Photo by Kyle J. Caldwell

Ali Vanderpool Owner, Ali Vanderpool Design

alivanderpooldesign.com

Primary Bedroom:

Choosing the proper lighting in a space can make or break a room, especially a bedroom. If you’re not careful, you can end up with a bedroom that feels more like a doctor’s office. Having the right amount and the right color of light can make all the difference. This primary bedroom was once covered in old, dingy carpet and popcorn ceilings, and the only lights in the space were 80’s style recessed cans. A complete makeover was a must, including adding attractive, ambient lighting. Because of the high ceilings, I needed to think upward, which is how these large, vintage-style brass sconces came into play. They create height next to the bed while adding the perfect amount of reading light at night. To make an impact in the center of the space, I chose this stunning, swirled-glass pendant that casts a beautiful glow around the room. With both lighting sources, this room went from dark and dated to warm and cozy… the perfect place to curl up with a book before bedtime.

Photo by Ali Vanderpool Design

Ali Vanderpool, Owner

Ali Vanderpool Design

shelterinteriorsllc.com

Kitchen:

Kitchen cabinets don’t have to be white. Darker colors are making a comeback in interiors. Mix painted cabinets with stained wood for a dynamic change. We prefer to stain lower cabinets in heavily used kitchens as it is more durable and family-friendly. Use neutral countertops and backsplash to balance the bold color choice. Paint your crown molding to match the cabinets for a custom look. By putting the paint on the upper cabinets, they get less wear and tear and chip less. Chips can happen on any cabinet, so it’s good to keep a touch-up kit, which the manufacturer usually provides. We used a neutral quartzite counter, which is very durable, to balance the darker color and tie in the warm wood tones. We also used a material on the valance for the window with a hint of the same blue to coordinate the look.

Carolyn Kron and Tricia Izzo Owners and Principal Designers, Shelter Interiors

Shelter Interiors

Photo by Sequined Asphault Studio

Carolyn Kron and Tricia Izzo, Owners and Principal Designers, Shelter Interiors Photo by Abby Cole Photography

donnabenedetto.com

behindthehedgect.com

Home Office:

Despite its potential to add an extra dimension to a room’s aesthetics and elevate a room to another level, art is often overlooked as a design element or one of the last things to be chosen to complete a room. When sourcing art for your home, determine the type of artwork and color scheme that appeals to you. Do you prefer a subtle or dramatic effect? Also, select a price point you feel comfortable with. In this home office, a combination of abstract and vintage art complemented the room’s palette while creating contrast. They work well with the high gloss lacquered mink brown wall finish, adding an extra sophisticated touch.

Donna Benedetto Principal Designer, Donna Benedetto Designs & Gallery Owner, Behind The Hedge

Donna Benedetto Designs

Photo by Amy Vischio

Donna Benedetto Principal Designer Donna Benedetto Designs & Gallery Owner, Behind The Hedge Photo by Amy Vischio

ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA SCHOENGOLD BERANBOM

Busy Bees

and residents alike - looking for beautiful home accessories and furnishings. Sandra and Lesley took some time out of their busy schedule to talk all things The Beehive.

AN INSIDE LOOK AT DESIGNERS AND SHOP OWNERS SANDRA HALSTEAD AND LESLEY COLLINS OF THE BEEHIVE.

The Beehive is the go-to shopping destination for visitors

Sandra Halstead and Lesley Collins of The Beehive. Photo by Brooke Allison Photography

The Shop. Photo by Brooke Allison Photography

Q: THE BEEHIVE HAS KIND OF BECOME A FAIRFIELD INSTITUTION. GIVE US SOME BACKGROUND AND SHARE THE OVERALL VISION AND VIBE OF THE SHOP.

S: First off, thank you for your kind words! We are currently in our third - and hopefully final - space and our tenth year of business here in Fairfield. One of the best things about being in this larger space is that we can tell more stories with our products, which we hope will make the shopping experience inspiring but also attainable.

L: I worked for Sandra in the original Beehive location. We had spoken about becoming partners then, but you know how life gets in the way. Towards the end of 2017, we met for dinner and said, ok, should we do this?!  The business was evolving, and she was doing more design, and it just felt like a natural next step. We needed a larger space to feature more of the design/furnishings aspect of the business, so we moved into the barn. I think we both felt that we outgrew that space almost immediately. When Sandra approached me about the old Victoria’s Secret location, I believe my exact words were - Are you insane? I was terrified, but she had a vision, and I trusted her.

Q: WHAT SETS THE BEEHIVE APART AND MAKES IT UNIQUE?

S: We believe the future of retail is experiential, and with home decor and furnishings, it’s a lot about creating a point of view on lifestyle. With the shop, especially in our new larger space, we’re able to blend those two elements and deliver that to our shoppers. We put so much heart and soul into curating our product mix, and our staff brings their absolute best every day to create what we hope is a joyful and inspiring experience for our community.

L: Our staff. They are so invested and care so deeply about this community and our business. We all love what we do, and we love each other like family, so naturally, we want everyone to feel that vibe when they come in to shop. We feel so lucky to be a part of such a great community, and ultimately, we hope that people feel that love.

Q: AS A COMPANION TO THE BRICK AND MORTAR, YOU ALSO OFFER DESIGN SERVICES. HOW DO YOU MERGE THOSE CONCEPTS? WHAT IS YOUR OVERALL DESIGN AESTHETIC AND APPROACH?

S: Our design business is a huge component within our retail business. The two arms of the business really create this supportive ecosystem for each other. While so many of our clients are word of mouth, a lot also come to us after being inspired by the look and feel of our retail space. What we do best for our clients is create spaces that feel light, bright, layered, textured, and, most of all, inviting and approachable. We approach design with function first. Our briefing process is thorough, and the design usually falls out of that initial brief. It’s amazing what you learn about a couple or a family just by taking the time to get to know them and how they live.

L: Regarding our home decor and design, our vibe is coastal casual. We want our store, as well as our design, to feel approachable and curated. Even though we have a coastal casual approach, we’ve worked on all sorts of jobs with different design aesthetics. We want our design to feel accessible and functional. It’s so important to us that we’re not just creating a beautiful space but that we’re delivering a home that works for how a specific family lives in it.

CONTINUED >

Q: WHAT IS AN AFFORDABLE, SIMPLE THING ANYONE CAN DO TO ZHUSH UP A SPACE?

S: The most affordable and simple thing to do is to set the mood. Tidy up your clutter, dim the lights, put on some great music, and light a candle (from The Beehive, of course!) After that, it’s all about styling! Pick an area, clear it, and then come see us! It’s amazing what you can do with freshened-up accessories!

L: New pillows and throws can easily update a space. In a kitchen or bath, a new hand soap + hand towels, and maybe a vessel with a plant always brings me joy! Even restyling a console or coffee table with something you love. This is exactly the sort of thing we want to help people discover. Styling is my FAVORITE !!

Q: WHAT IS ONE OF THE BIGGEST REWARDS OR LESSONS LEARNED JUGGLING PROJECTS AND A RETAIL SPACE?

S: The biggest reward has come from one of our biggest lessons- we are only two people and can’t do it all and be everywhere. We have learned to trust our team implicitly, and that is where our biggest growth opportunity has come from. I love that we can move between retail and design; there is always something to be inspired by!

L:  I learn something new every single day - it sounds so cliche, but it’s the truth! For me, and what I always share with Sandra, is that we can only do our best and I’m learning to be good with just that. We both care so deeply about what we do and the connections we make with both clients and customers, and all I want to focus on is giving them my best.

Photos by Raquelle Langworthy

FAIRFIELD FAVORITES FROM THE BEEHIVE:

GO-TO HOSTESS GIFT:

S: I love gifting serving boards with a cookbook from a favorite chef. You can never have too many and they look great styled.

L: A beautiful hand soap and towel paired with a candle or diffuser - everyone deserves a fresh little update!

ESSENTIAL DESIGN ELEMENT:

S: Lighting! It’s such a key design element for a warm and inviting space.

L: Beautiful books. They add height, color, interest…they make all the difference in elevating a space.

FAMILY FUN:

S: Proof Pizza at Southport Beach on summer Friday nights is the best way to end the week.

L: I love the Farmer’s Market and going to a live event at FTC!

RECHARGE:

S: Hot Vinyasa Yoga at Yoga Synergy

L: New Beauty Wellness - start with a massage and end with a Hydrofacial - so good!

MENU FAVORITE:

S: Lunch - The Fatone Burrito at Tasty Yolk, DinnerFried Chicken at Bonda.

L: Anything from Martel - but I’m partial to the duck confit! They also make my favorite burger in town.

DESIGN INSPO:

S: Traveling is such a huge source of inspiration.

L: I’m obsessed with Jake Arnold. His design is so luxe but still manages to feel comfortable and cozy.

INSTAGRAM MUST FOLLOW:

S: As embarrassing as it is, Lesley and I are constantly trading funny animal videos!

L: As an animal lover, @thedodo brings me joy and restores my faith in humanity. 9/10 times I’m gonna cry but it’s so worth it!!

Photos by Raquelle Langworthy

All the goods for a perfect shelfie. Photo by Brooke Allison Photography

We

Common Issues

Athletes’

Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery · Foot + Ankle Fractures

Ulcerations + Wounds · Ingrown Toenails · Heel Pain

For more information, visit us online at www.ValePodiatry.com

Urgent Appointments available for infections and fractures.

Whether

We welcome the opportunity to work with you to deliver a personalized and stress free design project. Benefit from our 20 plus years of extensive industry knowledge and experience.

NEW HOME DESIGN | RENOVATIONS

KITCHEN

+ BATH

Our Seawall repair methods can save you up to 70%-80% off the cost of replacement!

(857) 939-1671 info@NESLSS.com

MARCH 8TH

Andrew Ginsburg

Black Rock Books | 7:00 PM

Comedian & Author Andrew Ginsburg will do a short set and introduce his book,  Pumping Irony: How to Build Muscle, Lose Weight, and Have the Last Laugh. blackrockbooks.com for more information.

MARCH 16TH

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

SHU Community Theatre | 3:00 PM

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show has been dazzling audiences for nearly a decade, faithfully bringing to the stage Eric Carle’s timeless classics. Each production features a menagerie of over 75 magical puppets. Every production of the show features three other Eric Carle stories, meaning children and families will experience a different show every time they see it. shucommunitytheatre.org for more information.

MARCH 16TH

Meet

Pequot Library | 4:00 PM

New York Times-best selling cartoonist John Patrick Green is coming to Pequot Library to talk about his  Investigators  and  Agents of S.U.I.T. series, demonstrate how to draw the characters, and answer questions about Mango and Bash. A book signing will follow the presentation and books will be available to purchase. Space is limited. Registration is required. pequotlibrary.org

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C h e c k u s o u t o n : C o s t i s d e t e r m i n e d b y t h e j o b . N o t r a v e l c h a r g e s .

MARCH 21ST

Open VISIONS Forum: Michael Pollan

Quck Center for the Arts | 7:30 PM

How to Change Your Mind: From Your Garden to Interplanetary Organics. For more than 30 years, transformative scientist Michael Pollan has been writing books and articles about the places where the human and natural worlds intersect: on our plates, in our farms and gardens, and in our minds. For tickets and more information visit quickcenter.fairfield.edu

MARCH 27TH

Oystering in Connecticut

Fairfield Museum & History Center

12:00 PM

Join local historian, Neil Berro, to learn and discover the recent efforts in renewing oyster populations in the region. This event is free with Museum Admission. Snacks and refreshments provided.

MARCH 30TH

Beach Bunny 5K

Jennings Beach | 9:00 AM

Join Fairfield Parks & Recreation for their Annual Beach Bunny 5K. Enjoy the outdoors with friends and family. To register and for a list of scheduled events, visit  fairfieldrecreation.com for more information.