LOVE LOCAL
CELEBRATING OUR COMMUNITY'S CREATIVES
F E B R UA RY 2 02 4
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LIFESTYLE LETTER
Love Local
February 2024 PUBLISHER
Marisa MacLean | marisa.maclean@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Dear Readers, At Westport Lifestyle, we're passionate about showcasing the incredible talent within our local community. This month, we're excited to shine a spotlight on the remarkable creatives who are shaping the soul of our town. Designport gives you an inside look into the worlds of five outstanding local artists and shares a fascinating interview with woodworking maestro Matt Bier, known for his exceptional chandeliers, gates, and furniture. We're also thrilled to feature Carey Mack Weber, a respected figure in Connecticut's art scene. For those who love music and the arts, dive into The 203's recommended venues and explore MoCA Westport's captivating Performing Arts Series. Discover insights from The Consignment King, offering tips on turning hidden treasures like artwork, jewelry, or classic cars into valuable assets. As Valentine's Day approaches, explore Anna Barnes's curated gift guide and find DiscoverWestportCT's surprising ideas for a memorable outing. And for a touch of wanderlust, join our travel feature as we transport you to the mesmerizing Ocean Club Bahamas, the scenic backdrop of James Bond's Casino Royale. In conclusion, let's continue embracing the diverse talents and creative energy thriving in our town. Here's to a month full of discoveries and a deep appreciation for the incredible talent enriching our Westport community.
Jennifer Berniker, Meredith Guinness, DiscoverWestportCT.com, Anna Barnes, Isabelle Engelson, Tory Brown, Cheryl Parton C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S
Janie Jones, Alexandra Szebenyik, Jennifer Berniker, Abby Cole, Christian Horan
Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
Warm regards,
DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman LAYOUT DESIGNER Eva Tucker
M A R I SA M AC L E A N , P U B L I S H E R @WESTPORTLIFESTYLE
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Westport Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Westport area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.
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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 Westport Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
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inside the issue FE B RUA RY 2 0 2 4 | LOV E LO CA L
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Featured
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Performing Arts at MoCA Westport A Hidden Gem Within Fairfield County
The Natural
46 On the Cover
Departments
Tory Brown, from The 203, invites you to explore the brand’s music venue roundup on page 40.
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Lifestyle Letter
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City Scene
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Business Monthly
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Artist’s Palette LIFE + CULTURE
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Home Update HOME + DESIGN
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Trend Setter ARTS + CULTURE
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Maker’s Studio HOME + DESIGN
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Local’s Choice SHOPPING
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Our Town LIFE + CULTURE
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Travel Journal TRAVEL
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Must See LIFE + CULTURE
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Local Limelight ARTS + CULTURE
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Events
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Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAG E
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How To ENTERTAINMENT
Meet the Maker, Matt Bier
Sounds of The203: Music Venue Roundup Tory’s 13 Must-Visit Spots for Live Music in Fairfield County
Start with Art
5 Local Abstract Artists to Watch
Photography: Abby Cole
It’s Simple. Work. Life. Balance.
CLOSETS • GARAGES • HOME OFFICES • ENTERTAINMENT CENTERS • WALL BEDS • PANTRIES CRAFT ROOMS • LAUNDRY 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 the art of organization ©2023 Closet Factory. All rights reserved.
Trusted Tesla vehicle maintenance and service is now available in Fairfield County. We built our reputation on European auto service and repair. Yet, many of our clients have been asking us to work on their Teslas as well. Servicing Teslas was a logical evolution for us as we’ve already been servicing EVs from Porsche, Audi and Mini. Our shop foreman has completed extensive EV training and leads our Tesla service department. We’ve invested in EV specific tools and safety equipment, including Tesla factory scan tools and Tesla software support. SST Auto is registered with Tesla, affording us the ability to purchase and sell Tesla parts directly from the factory. We’re also registered to access all of Tesla’s model specific repair information. We’ve even installed Tesla charging stations in our parking lot! You can trust SST Auto for all of your Tesla maintenance needs. Our Tesla specific services include:
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FEBRUARY 2024
city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
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1: The 2023 Westport Lifestyle Readers’ Choice celebration at MoCA Westport. 2: The event was sponsored and catered by Marcia Selden Catering. 3: Fresh Flower Bar provided beautiful florals for the event. 4: Tuck Gin sponsored the bar and mixed drinks for the crowd. 5: Dave Briggs and Marisa MacLean. Cann Beverages was a drink sponsor of the evening. 6: The celebration featured the unforgettable Teacup Sallie Band at MoCA Westport. 7: Dr. Virginia Romano and Dr. Masha Kogan celebrating their win. Photography by Alexandra Szebenyik Photography
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C I T Y SC E N E
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PERSONAL ASSISTANTS ESTA HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS CHIEFS OF STAFF PERSONAL PERSONAL DRIVERS RECENTLY SOLDHOUSEKEEPERS NANNIES / GOVE Hill DOMESTICSasco ASSISTANTS BUTLERS CHAUFFEURS DRIVE AND HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS MULTI-PROPERTY MANA FAMILY ASSISTANTS EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PRIVATE HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS HOUSEKEEPERS HOUSEMAN / MANNIES PERSONAL ASSISTANTS PERSONAL SECUR GUARDS EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PERSONAL ASSISTAN ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS CHIEFS OF STAF SONAL CHEFS PERSONAL DRIVERS HOUSEKEEPERS EX ASSISTANTS PERSONAL ASSISTANTS ESTATE AND HOU MANAGERS CHIEFS OF STAFF PERSONAL CHEFS NANN EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PERSONAL ASSISTANTS ESTA TREAT YOURSELF OR A LOVED ONE TO HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS CHIEFS OF STAFF PERSONAL MORE TIME THIS VALENTINE’S DAY!/ GOVE PERSONAL DRIVERS HOUSEKEEPERS NANNIES Household Staffing | Executive Staffing | Real Estate Solutions DOMESTIC ASSISTANTS BUTLERS CHAUFFEURS DRIVE AND HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS MULTI-PROPERTY MANA FAMILY ASSISTANTS EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PRIVATE HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS HOUSEKEEPERS HOUSEMAN / MANNIES PERSONAL ASSISTANTS PERSONAL SECUR GUARDS EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PERSONAL ASSISTAN ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS CHIEFS OF STAF SONAL CHEFS PERSONAL DRIVERS HOUSEKEEPERS EX ASSISTANTS PERSONAL ASSISTANTS ESTATE AND HOU MANAGERS CHIEFS OF STAFF PERSONAL CHEFS NANN UTIVE ASSISTANTS PERSONAL ASSISTANTS ESTATE AN NATHALIE LAITMON STEVEN LAITMON HOLD MANAGERS CHIEFS OF STAFFTel: PERSONAL CHEFS Tel: (917) 714-9951 (646) 645-4971 AL DRIVERS HOUSEKEEPERS NANNIES / GOVERNESSE Nathalie@TheCalendarGroup.com Steven.Laitmon@Compass.com TIC ASSISTANTS BUTLERS CHAUFFEURS DRIVERS ESTA HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS MULTI-PROPERTY MANAGERS ASSISTANTS EXECUTIVE ASSISTANTS PRIVATE CHEFS H HOLD MANAGERS HOUSEKEEPERS HOUSEMAN NANNI NIES PERSONAL ASSISTANTS PERSONAL SECURITY BO ExceptionalASSISTANTS staffing and real estatePERSONAL solutions. GUARDS EXECUTIVE ASSISTAN Tel: (203) 454-5404 | THECALENDARGROUP.COM ESTATE AND HOUSEHOLD MANAGERS CHIEFS OF STAF
city scene CONTINUED
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1: Mary Kate Lamb and Sarah True of True Event, who helped plan the evening. 2: Kitt Shapiro, Marisa MacLean, Laura Sabia, Dr. Shieva Ghofrany and Marria Pooya. 3: Dr. Masha Kogan and Carole Topol Orland celebrating their wins. 4: Bridgewater Chocolate provided guests with goodie bags. 5: Readers’ Choice winners were greeted at the party with gold medals celebrating their victory. 6: The team from Marcia Selden Catering served the delighted crowd. 7: Christy Charise, Austin Charise and Justin Charise celebrate their win. Photography by Alexandra Szebenyik Photography
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D R . M A S H A KO G A N & D R . V I R G I N I A R O M A N O
READERS’ CHOICE 2022
CITY PICK 2021
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city scene CONTINUED
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1: Saul Zion, Sharon Zion and Dr. Flora Levin celebrating their wins. 2: Bespoke Designs and West celebrating their wins. Monica Gorski, Kitt Shapiro and Shari Lebowitz. 3: Elizabeth McKay and Jessica Newshel celebrate winning the 2023 Westport Lifestyle Readers’ Choice competition. 4: Stephanie Berghoff and Dr. Rhonda Klein celebrate their big wins. 5: Emma Rojas and Maxx Crowley. 6: The crowd enjoying the Tuck Gin Bar. 7: Alex Orachef and September Sirico celebrating their win. Photography by Alexandra Szebenyik Photography
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CAROLE TOPOL ORLAND, ESQ. CO-FOUNDING PARTNER
READERS’ CHOICE 2022
CITY PICK 2021
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city scene CONTINUED
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1: Cindy Raney, Marisa MacLean and Marcella Kovac. 2: Lauren Fetell Kalb, Nathalie Laitman, Iris Greenfield, Sara Deren and Kate Freeman 3: Sholeh Janati, Nicolette Weinbaum and Marria Pooya. 4: Dr. Jessica Melman and Erica Acheychek celebrate their wins. 5: Josh Levkoff and Stacey Levkoff celebrate winning The Readers’ Choice competition. 6: Meredith Goforth, Monica Gorski, Shari Lebowitz, Ruth Mannes, Zac Mathias, Ashley Cannon, Kitt Shapiro and Anne Greenberg. 7: Doug Bross and Marisa MacLean. Photography by Alexandra Szebenyik Photography
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www.saugatuck-financial.com | 203-221-5275 Justin Charise uses Saugatuck Financial as a marketing name for doing business as a representative of Northwestern Mutual. Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company, Milwaukee, WI (NM) (life and disability insurance, annuities, and life insurance with long-term care benefits) and its subsidiaries. Justin Charise provides investment advisory services as an Advisor of Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company®(NMWMC), Milwaukee, WI, a subsidiary of NM and federal savings bank. Justin Charise provides investment brokerage services as a Registered Representative of Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (NMIS), a subsidiary of NM, registered investment adviser, broker-dealer and member FINRA and SIPC. Justin Charise is an Insurance Agent of NM. Northwestern Mutual Private Client Group is a select group of Northwestern Mutual advisors and representatives. Saugatuck Financial and Northwestern Mutual Private Client Group are not registered investment advisers, broker-dealers, insurance agencies, federal savings banks or other legal entities. Forbes Top and Best-In-State Top Financial Security Professionals and Best-in-State Wealth Advisors research and ranking provided by SHOOK Research, LLC. Northwestern Mutual and its advisors do not pay for placement on 3rd party rating lists, but do pay marketing fees to these organizations to promote the rating(s). Rankings and recognitions are no guarantee of future investment success. Westport Lifestyle Magazine Readers Choice Award for Best Financial Advisor (2021, 2022) is based on online voting, September & October each year. No compensation is provided for eligibility.
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1: Matthew MacLean and Marisa MacLean. 2: Kathryn Sirico, Tony Sirico and September Sirico. 3: Marcia Selden Catering continued to wow the crowd with each course. 4: Ashley Cannon, Anna Barnes, Laura Sabia, Jennifer Tooker and Marisa MacLean. 5: Sarah True, the evening’s event planner, and Marisa MacLean. 6: Jennifer Berniker, Sara Deren, Hannah Spencer, Ashley Lancer and Betsy Perna. 7: Steven and Nathalie Laitman. Photography by Alexandra Szebenyik Photography
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FEBRUARY 2024
business monthly A ROUNDUP OF NEWS F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S
4th Annual Love Our Community Fundraiser Join the Alliance for Community Empowerment for their 4th Annual celebration, honoring the Strength and Love for Our Community in their 60th year! Tickets cover a Red Carpet Experience, 4-Course Dinner, Photobooth, Silent Auction, DJ, Live Band and more. Cocktail attire recommended. February 9th, 6:30 PM, The Inn at Longshore, Westport. Visit alliancect.org for ticket information.
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YOU’LL LOVE WHAT’S INSIDE 3 LO W LY N ROA D | W E S T P O R T
ACS Women Leading The Way to Wellness Galentine's Day Kick-off Party at West Gather your best gal pals and join ACS Women Leading The Way to Wellness for a Galentine's Day event to sip, shop, and share reasons for choosing yourself! Please RSVP at acswomenandwellness.com/kick-off-party Event Details: Date: Thursday, February 8, 2024 Time: 6 - 9 pm Location: WEST, 117 Post Rd E, Westport, CT
MORE INFO
your life. your home. your realtor. CONTINUED >
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business monthly CONTINUED
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Per for m i ng A r t s at MoC A West por t A Hidden Gem Within Fairfield County
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force, stirring emotions, and fostering connections among community members. Fairfield County is known for its vibrant culture, and MoCA Westport’s series is a perfect reflection of that. "We're not just putting on shows; we're creating a hub where art, community, and experience intersect," Kristen Young, Director of Performing Arts adds. From classical renditions to contemporary compositions, jazz ensembles to folk ballads, the Performing Arts 2024 Series is a testament to the power of artistic expression. It's more than just a series of events; it's an invitation to embark on a journey where every note strikes a chord, resonating deeply within the hearts of all who attend. This series is your ticket to the heart of Fairfield County’s art scene. The lineup for 2024 is robust. Following MoCA Some Noise, trumpet player Anthony Hervey takes the stage on Saturday, January 27, a Jazz at Lincoln Center Emerging Artist who is recognized by Grammy.com as one of “10 emerging artists to know in 2023”. Local
ARTICLE BY ISABELLE ENGELSON
MoCA Westport's Performing Arts Series is a hidden gem within Fairfield County. Beyond providing entertainment, this series embodies an immersive journey through the arts that captivates a wide array of tastes and preferences. Situated at 19 Newtown Turnpike in Westport, CT, MoCA Westport has become a beacon for those seeking vibrant, diverse, and engaging performing arts experiences. Starting with "MoCA Some Noise: Open Mic Night" on January 5, this series is all about showcasing a variety of talents, right from our backyard. Kristen Young, the visionary behind MoCA Westport's Performing Arts, says, "We’re excited to bring a mix of performances that resonate with Fairfield County’s unique community.” What sets MoCA Westport apart is its steadfast commitment to inclusivity and genre diversity. Collaborations and solo performances alike are curated to transcend conventional boundaries, creating an environment where music becomes a unifying
Sean Lee credit Dario Acosta
David Gonzalez
“We’re excited to bring a mix of performances that resonate with Fairfield County’s unique community.”
Michelle Pauker credit Brynn Owen
Kristen Young and Joe Bush credit Isabelle Engelson Natalia Kazaryan
Herlin Riley
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John Bitoy credit Romel Sims
Viano credit Kevin Condon
Frederic Chiu credit Chris Craymer.
Stella Cole credit Sophie Kaye
A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | L I FE + CU LT U RE
talent and sensational vocalist Michelle Pauker performs Love Songs on Friday, February 9, followed by a delightful Children's Program on Saturday, March 23 by Frederic Chiu on piano and David Gonzalez as a captivating storyteller, offering a Classical experience for all ages. Saturday, April 27 presents Natalia Kazaryan, an acclaimed Classical pianist who presents a program that fuses lesser-known works of three women composers with two staples of the piano repertoire. Friday, May 10 brings jazz to the forefront with Stella Cole, a vocalist with a timeless quality, as part of Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Emerging Artist Spotlight Series. Then, on Friday, May 31, the spotlight shines on Herlin Riley, a master drummer who has played with distinguished performers such as Wynton Marsalis, Harry Connick Jr., and Jon Batiste. The Jazz series continues on Friday, September 20, with Grammy winner Steven Feifke, followed by a performance on Saturday, October 5 of a Classical and Jazz collaboration by Sean Lee on violin and John Bitoy on piano. On Friday, October 25th, see the Viano String Quartet, one of the most sought after young ensembles today. The series culminates in December with a Holiday Special by Kristen Young, violinist and Joe Bush, pianist. November 22-23, 2024 The 2024 Heida Hermanns Piano Competition will once again bring the world’s top young pianists to Westport to compete over the course of two days in one of America’s most celebrated cultural communities. The winner receives a cash prize of $10,000. In addition to a cash prize, the winner performs a solo recital at MoCA Westport the following year. To catch these must-see events, head over to MoCA Westport's Music Performances (mocawestport.org/ music/#performances). Grab your tickets and be part of something special right here in Fairfield County at MoCA Westport. mocawestport.org
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The NATURAL MEET THE MAKER, MATT BIER
Bier hanging at glass chandelier at Anthropologie
Cutting board detail
ARTICLE BY JEN BERNIKER
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A backyard swing built by Bier, styled by Amanda Desmond of Outdoor Design & Living
A chandelier installed in a Westport homeowner's potting shed / pool house
Chandelier detail
The original chandelier at Terrain
A custom garden fence
S
ometimes, you discover art where you least expect it, like while you are plant shopping. So goes the story for many clients of creator Matt Bier, who made his initial mark in Westport back in 2016 as the lead artist hired by Urban Outfitters to design and build out Terrain, the ethereal botanical retailer we all love to indulge in. Bier’s first week at Terrain he was tasked with dreaming up something show-stopping for the entry that would work as a seasonal hanger for lights, leaves and other decor. The building is an old Cadillac dealership, so he decided to “go huge,” and created a 20 foot in diameter chandelier out of foraged branches. His goal was to set the tone and it worked. Bier explains, “When you
create a piece that is bigger than you are, it puts you in your place, the same way walking in a forest does.” It’s true. Standing below one of these beauties, you feel like a bird at peace in her woodland habitat. Time to go feather the nest... Bier has moved on from Terrain and now has a flourishing solo business making almost anything you can dream up out of natural materials. His commissions have included custom tables, garden gates and swings, enormous wreaths, moss wall installations, birdhouses, and more epic chandeliers - which can only be described as absolute works of art. A classically trained artist, he has been creating since he was a kid. After being blown-away by Bier’s work in several local homes, Designport visited Bier at his studio, a restored 1920s barn to hear his story.
WLM: HOW DID YOUR ARTISTIC JOURNEY BEGIN?
MB: I grew up in D.C. surrounded by the Smithsonian. I took classes at the National Portrait Gallery and the Corcoran, went to an art high school then to the School of Visual Arts to study graphic design. Graphics proved to be too clean for me so I moved towards painting and sculpture. At that time I noticed what Anthropologie and Terrain were doing; creating window and store displays, working with a product and narrative in mind, and it sparked something in me.
WLM: HOW DID YOUR 10 YEARS WORKING FOR ANTHRO AND TERRAIN PREPARE YOU FOR WHAT YOU ARE DOING TODAY?
MB: In those shops, I was creating an immersive space. Making cardboard CONTINUED > FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT
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A custom wreath A hand-made garden gate
A moss wall installation
Bier's moss wall at Terrain
A custom dining table
architecture look like stone, it’s a lot like a set-building. These companies will pile on the work, but it builds a flexible artistic mind. I have the tools to figure out how to do almost anything. Yes, I can build a banquette, but I can also produce the table, the light fixture and the art that goes on the wall.
WLM: HOW DOES YOUR PROCESS WORK WITH CLIENTS?
MB: My clients are mostly homeowners, local businesses and designers. A client will bring me an idea or an image and I’ll start sketching with them. Then back in my studio, I’ll further develop the design. Sometimes it’s a beautiful garden gate whose intention is to be that first piece that greets someone or it’s a chandelier meant to create a whole environment. When the final product is delivered and lived with, it’s a piece of art that the client
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had a role in and they can see that role and be proud of it as time goes on.
HOW ARE THESE MASSIVE CHANDELIERS MADE?
I create the core in the studio and make it as big as I can so it will just fit through the door. Then I’ll do my foraging, usually dead pieces of Mountain Laurel and Magnolia, prune the branches and insert them into the chandelier frame so it feels natural. I try to balance the hard and the soft. It’s kind of like a bird building a nest, and it can go wrong so easily. I might add oxidized metal flowers, dried flowers or dried seed pods; it’s basically a monument to nature.
YOUR JOB BROUGHT YOU TO WESTPORT, BUT WHAT HAS KEPT YOU IN THE AREA?
Terrain recognized this area as being in tune with their aesthetic and that was very
much my aesthetic too. This is a great part of the country for what I do. It’s not cheap to think outside the box with home décor, but people here have an appetite and an ability to do it.
WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE GOALS?
My goal is pretty humble as well as a big ask. I want to be able to continue doing what I do. This kind of work supports my talent and my soul. If I’m able to make a living doing it, I’ve already reached my ultimate goal. Matt Bier lives with his wife Melissa, who he met in art school, and their 10 year old son. You’ll find his work in some unexpected places, but you can also find it on his Instagram @matt_bier Follow Bier’s work and other artists and creatives in the home space on Instagram @my_designport
A Bier chandelier in a Weston living room
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E VE RYO N E K N OW S A RE A LTO R… S O HOW DO YO U C HO O S E THE RIGH T ON E ?
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Tory B r
ow n, Ph o to ole by C Ab by
ARTICLE BY TORY BROWN
Sounds of The203: Music Venue Roundup TORY’S 13 MUST-VISIT SPOTS FOR LIVE MUSIC IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY
L i t t l e B arn , Wes tpor t: On several weekend evenings, this beloved family-friendly pub transforms into a lively hub of entertainment as locally cherished bands take over the dining room, turning it into a vibrant dance party.
The Castle Black Rock , Black Rock A warm and inviting Irish Pub that stands out as a lively hub for music enthusiasts. With a consistent lineup of local bands, the pub transforms into an energetic musical haven every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Wa l r u s Alley, We stport In the warmer months, Walrus Alley transforms its outdoor patio into a lively haven, bringing big music energy to downtown Westport. The cobblestone alley comes to life with high-energy live music, creating an inviting atmosphere illuminated by the warm glow of bistro lights.
Spotted Horse, Westport: A go-to destination for those seeking a bustling bar scene with a side of live music in the heart of downtown. The homey, tavernesque atmosphere, adorned with wooden beams and a bustling U-shaped bar, creates an ambiance that is both cozy and electric.
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Wallstreet Theater, Norwalk Rooted in cultural heritage and renowned for its unique architecture, this dynamic theater features live performances, concerts, theater productions, and community events. Celebrated for its diverse entertainment, it stands as the prime destination for a vibrant cultural immersion in Norwalk.
S tage O ne At Fairfie ld The ate r Company, Fairfie ld CT StageOne boasts a completely different vibe than FTC’s Warehouse. In this intimate venue, no seat is more than a couple of dozen feet from the stage, ensuring that every guest is immersed in the live performance experience. The unparalleled intimacy of StageOne, coupled with its crisp acoustics, creates an atmosphere where the connection between artists and the audience becomes palpable.
Th e Hea r tford Hea l th care Ampi th eater, B r i dgeport CT A quick stroll from the Bridgeport Train Station, this state-of-the-art open-air venue seats 5,500 people. Beyond its profound lineup of performances, the venue boasts an ambiance like no other. With Metro-North trains passing by mid-show, the atmosphere becomes electric, creating dynamic energy. Beyond stellar performances by some of the biggest names in music, concert-goers can savor local flavors and enjoy the convenience of food trucks flanking the stage on both sides.
Park Cit y Music Hall, Black Rock Park City transcends the traditional boundaries between performers and the audience, creating an electrifying connection. Since opening, PCMH has welcomed nationally touring bands, Grammy winners, and rising stars. What sets them apart is the unique option to reserve their backspace for a private party while a show rocks the front space, offering a backstage-style hang for your special event!
BRYAC , B l ac k Roc k A vibrant dive bar meets music venue, with an eclectic, laid-back vibe. Beyond its stellar lobster roll, it stands out for consistent weekend live music featuring genres like blues, jazz, and rock by local and national artists.
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The Ware house At Fairfie ld The ate r Company, Fairfie ld CT Just steps from the Fairfield train station, The Warehouse seamlessly blends industrial aesthetics with a cozy atmosphere. Exposed brick, high ceilings, and innovative stage design create an unparalleled setting for diverse performances, ranging from live music to stand-up comedy
The B l ack Du c k , Wes tpor t Perched over the Saugatuck River, ‘The Duck’ is a well-worn and much-loved local icon. A Westport staple and a personal favorite. Sticky, grungy, and perfectly off-centered. The eclectic decor, dim lighting, grumpy locals, heavy pours, juicy burgers, and consistent live music will make your wildest dive-bar dreams come true. Tuesdays bring out the karaoke stars, but Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays steal the show with live music.
L ev itt Pav illion, We stport As a beacon of the community and artistic expression, The Levitt’s outdoor amphitheater hosts a diverse array of events, from free concerts and live music to theater productions and family-friendly gatherings. With its grassy knolls and relaxed seating, the Levitt Pavilion provides a laid-back setting, encouraging picnics, dancing, and shared moments under the stars.
S u ns et Gr i l l e, Nor wa l k Tucked away behind the Norwalk Cove Marina, Sunset Grille is a hidden gem with panoramic water views. In the summer, this waterfront patio bar comes to life with nightly live music and dancing, creating a lively atmosphere that rocks from early afternoon into the night.
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Beautiful Things For The Home. millieraes.com | 203.259.7200 | b Millie Rae’s v @millie_raes 1011 Post Rd. East · Westport, CT 06880
START w ith Ar t It’s not size or budget that matters when creating an exciting interior space; it’s the presence of personality. As a professional "home stalker" for the website and blog Designport, I’ve toured dozens of local homes to share their stories. I’ve observed how well-chosen furnishings, lighting and accessories can create the most beautiful and livable spaces. But the most memorable homes have one common feature: interesting art, books or other personal artifacts on display. Even if it takes you years to furnish your dining room (hello, me), if you hang a painting or framed photograph you love in your entry, your house becomes a home. Not only does art infuse color, pattern
5 LOCAL ABSTRACT ARTISTS TO WATCH ARTICLE BY JEN BERNIKER
and personality into your room, but purchasing original artwork supports a local artist and/or gallery. And your initial investment could increase in value years later, which is more than you can say for most coffee tables. Because finding art is easier said than done, here’s a round-up of some local artists to watch, specifically abstract painters and printmakers. Our community is blessed with a trove of talented pop artists, fine art photographers, landscape painters, and sculptors too, but as I'm limited to five I chose to hone in on abstract art because of its emotional and decorative impact, contemporary appeal, and, often, accessibility when it comes to pricing.
G a l i Kat z Gali Katz is a Westport-based artist whose work includes drawing, printmaking and collage. Her colorful, emotional compositions speak to themes like childhood, domestic life, specifically the anxiety of parenthood, and simple pleasures. Through her sublime work, Katz attempts to “reconcile conflict and reveal joy in the roles she plays as mother, child, stay at home parent and modern day human.” Contact: galizkatz@gmail.com www.galikatzartist.com
Monotype by Gali Katz
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Painting by Jay Petrow
Jay Petrow switched from a corporate art director job, launching a landscape design business and fine art career over 15 years ago. He began painting in an abstract expressionist style after many years of representational work “in order to connect with and express my experience fathering an autistic child.” The love, humor, sadness and overwhelming emotions Petrow has wrestled with come through in vivid color in each brushstroke on his canvas. Westportbased Petrow spends his winters painting while during the warmer months, he keeps his creativity flowing creating naturalistic gardens for local homeowners.
Jay Pet row
Contact: jay.petrow@gmail.com www.jaypetrowfineart.com, www.petrowgardens.com
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Li z Leg get t
Painting by Liz Leggett
Liz Leggett is an accomplished artist whose paintings and drawings have been shown nationally and internationally. Her exhilarating paintings focus primarily on the interplay between abstraction and imagery which creates a visual tension that is open to the viewer’s interpretation. Her use of color and markings elicits a visceral emotional response: from frenzy, to hope and joy. Liz is the former Director of Exhibitions at MoCA Westport and now works as an Art Advisor and Independent Curator. She has an upcoming exhibition this summer in Europe (Switzerland). Contact: lizleggett24@gmail.com Website: www.lizleggett.com
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Collagraph and etching monoprint with chine collè and thread by Jen Greely
Jen Greely has a Masters degree in Demography and was once on the faculty at Georgetown University in Washington, DC, but she left academia to focus on family and pursue her passion for art. A classically trained painter, she has expanded her mediums to include watercolor, inks, encaustic and printmaking. Recent work incorporates various forms of printmaking with chine collè elements of mark making and hand stitching. These series of delicate monoprints and etchings explore the nature of time passing, “as loose threads evoke unfinished work and cast ephemeral shadows on the paper below.”
Je n G reely
Contact: jzgreely@gmail.com www.jengreely.com
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Painting by Claudia Mengel
Claudia Mengel is an accomplished painter and printmaker. Her compelling compositions strike a balance between form and abstraction with large fields of color punctuated by marks that evoke movement and emotion. Mengel’s work is in many private collections in the tri-state area, and she exhibits at several galleries.
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M AK E R’S ST U D IO | HO ME + D E SIGN
Contact: claudiamengel@claudiamengelart.com www.claudiamengelart.com
LOVE, LAUGH, SPA While on the hunt, also make a point to pop into local contemporary art galleries Amy Simon Fine Art, Clarendon Fine Art, Sorelle Gallery and Swoon Westport to see some of the above mentioned artists and other incredible works in person. And it’s worth checking out the Westport Artists Collective (artistscollectiveofwestport.org), Metro Art Studios (metroartstudios.org), Firing Circuits Studio (firingcircuitsartists.com), The Norwalk Art Space (thenorwalkartspace.org) and the Center for Contemporary Printmaking (contemprints.org). Some have open studio hours, all have lists of artists in residence and image galleries on their websites. And don’t forget to visit MoCA Westport to view note-worthy work from local and nationally recognized artists. Finally, remember that the most important factor in making an art investment is feeling an emotional connection to the piece. So forget about the rug or the night-stands for a while, and start with art! Your interior designer, if you’ve hired one, will support the decision. Because great art will elevate your space, enhancing all of the other improvements you are making in your home, too.
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VALENTINE’S DAY 3
gif t gui d e FLOWERS + CHOCOLATE
A new spin on the traditional gift of flowers + chocolates. ONE Hand-crafted Chocolates. It wouldn’t be Valentine’s Day without the best chocolates. BridgewaterChocolate.com
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TWO Fresh Flowers. Surprise her with a stunning arrangement. FreshFlowerBar.com THREE Dipped Ceramic Pitcher Vase. A perfect home for long-stem roses. MarkAndGraham.com
5 Reimagining the classic gift ARTICLE BY ANNA BARNES
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FOUR Heart Windowpane Cookies. A sweet Valentine’s Day treat to share. OliveAndCocoa.com FIVE Personalized Wine Bottle. A personalized touch to a special bottle of wine. Personalize.Williams-Sonoma.com
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BREAKFAST IN BED
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If a day to relax sounds like the perfect celebration, you’ll love these gifts. ONE Plush Men’s Robe. Everyone loves a comfortable robe; he will too. SavvyAndGraceWestport.com TWO Dash Mini Design Heart Waffle Maker. Major heart eyes for this cute and convenient waffle! Williams-Sonoma.com
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THREE L’Amour Mug from Le Creuset. An adorable mug to celebrate the day of love. Amazon.com FOUR DreamKnit Kimono Pajama Set. Pajamas so comfy and cute, she’ll want to lounge all day. LakePajamas.com
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FIVE Dakota Duvet Cover. Give your bedding a major upgrade for the sweetest dreams. Matouk.com
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GALENTINES DAY
Spending Valentine’s Day with your girl gang? Here’s what you’ll need.
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ONE J. Lowery Emily Bag. The perfect fun & flirty bag for girl’s night out Galentine’s dinner! ShopJLowery.com
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TWO Hotel Lobby Candle. If you can’t spend Valentine’s Day in Paris, the HLC Paris scent will practically transport you there. HotelLobbyCandle.com THREE Permanent Bracelets with your BFF. The updated, much cooler version of beloved friendship necklaces. JeweledCoquette.com FOUR Nodpod Sleep Mask. Gift your gal pal what she really wants, a good night’s sleep! Nordstrom.com
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FIVE Jeni’s Ice Cream Delivery. No girl’s night in Galentine’s party would be complete without pints for everyone. Jenis.com CONTINUED > FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT
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SOMETHING SPARKLING
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Jewelry is never a bad idea!
ONE David Yurman Renaissance Cablespira Bracelet. A little wrist sparkle with this stackable cuff. LBGreen.com TWO Monica Vinader Siren Green Onyx & Diamond Stacking Ring. A perfect splash of color in a fabulous cocktail ring. Nordstrom.com
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THREE Heart Roxy Earrings. Gift these statement heart pearl earrings she’ll love to wear on date night. LisiLerch.com FOUR Personalized Three Letter Necklace. A great way to keep the initials of all her favorites close to her heart. HaverHill.com
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FIVE Shinola Canfield Sport Chronograph. Add a new timepiece to his watch collection. LBGreen.com
4 MUST HAVE RESERVATIONS
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Make your reservations ASAP because these are meals you won’t want to miss. ONE Kawa Ni. Perfected Japanese, great for sharing. Come for the Karaage Don, stay for the Peekytoe Crab Rangoon. KawaNiWestport.com
3 photo by Mindy Briar
TWO Nomade. International dishes that celebrate cuisine and culture. Come for the Tuna Tartare, stay for the Mushrooms a l’Escargot. NomadeWestport.com THREE Casa Me. Chic Italian food and chic vibes. Come for the Mafaldine Al Limone, stay for the Fett’una. CasaMeCafe.com FOUR Don Memo. Vibrant Mexican food that will transport you. Come for the Tacos, stay for the Esquites. DonMemoWestport.com
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FIVE Walrus Alley. Southern comfort food and live music. Come for the Fried Chicken Sandwich, stay for the Honey Mustard Brussels. WalrusAlley.com
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Unexpected
Westport
The unexpected perfect romantic gesture ARTICLE BY DISCOVERWESTPORTCT.COM
Whether you are a visitor, a resident or potential resident, DiscoverWestportCT.com is Westport’s go-to resource to find what you are looking for in Westport – from shopping and dining to parks, events and many other helpful listings. With the month of romance coming to a start, we’ve picked some of the more unexpected events, locations and ideas for the perfect romantic gesture:
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AN EVENING WITH AUDRA MCDONALD @ WESTPORT COUNTRY PLAYHOUSE
Named as one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people, the winner of a record-breaking six Tony Awards, two Grammy Awards and an Emmy, Audra McDonald is visiting Westport Country Playhouse for an unbelievable event including songs from the golden age of Broadway.
WESTPORTREADS
INTO THE SANITARIUM ESCAPE ROOM @ THE WESTPORT MUSEUM
You’ve been trapped in a Sanitarium with your loved one and you have to find a way to escape! Use clues and puzzles around the room to try and find a way out before the staff comes back to run their tests. Reserve your spot for this fun and exciting adventure at the Westport Museum.
JAZZ WITH THE SHERRY WINSTON BAND @ THE WESTPORT LIBRARY
Join the Sherry Winston Band for a night of jazz at the Westport Library. Sherry Winston has performed for two presidents, has played alongside Stevie Wonder, and she and her band of musicians are ready to perform for you and your date on February 11th.
EYA MEDIEVAL MUSIC @ CHT
On February 3rd, display your knowledge of culture by taking your date to a performance led by the award winning musical organization, Eya. A concert in honor of the 6th century patroness saint of Ireland, this performance will include beautifully crafted songs and harp strings strummed to serenity, all within the dimly lit radiance of candlelight.
CRAFT & SIP: CANDLE MAKING @ EARTHPLACE
Enjoy a fun and stress-free activity with your special someone while sipping your favorite drinks. With the use of beeswax sheets, you can create multiple candles to use at home for your next romantic night in.
Start your own book club, alongside your partner, with the help of WestportREADS’ book selection of 2024. Michael Finkel’s The Art Thief is the perfect novel to share and discuss what kept you turning the pages. When you’re done, experience WestportREADS’ film pairing, The Thomas Crown Affair, to discuss similar characters and themes between the two mediums. Check out panels and activity ideas related to The Art Thief at The Westport Library.
SATURDAY RUN @ DONUT CRAZY
Get your day started with a rush of adrenaline! Every Saturday, Westporters come together to run along a set path through some of Westport’s most well known locations. When the 6 to 12 mile route is over, enjoy some great conversations with other joggers at Donut Crazy.
WESTPORT PAL RINK AT LONGSHORE
Grab your skates and hop on the ice at Westport’s own public ice rink. With only a few weeks left to show off your skating skills, or lack thereof, you can skate with your date for an evening of pure bliss.
CHESS CLUB FOR ADULTS @ THE WESTPORT LIBRARY
Want to compete against your date in a game of strategy? Join Westport Library’s Chess Club for Adults. With four meetings every month, you’ll always have time to learn, play and put your partner in checkmate!
LIVE MUSIC @ THE BLACK DUCK
Enjoy drinks, lights and tunes at Westport’s iconic bar and grill. The Black Duck hosts a variety of exciting bands and musicians throughout the year, including local favorites 9 of Hearts.
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License to Chill A 007 hotspot is ready for a new closeup
ARTICLE BY MEREDITH GUINNESS PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTIAN HORAN
Isadore Sharp has famously said the company culture of his Four Seasons resort empire is based on a simple principle: The Golden Rule. Employees should treat guests as they would wish to be treated. If that’s the case, the employees at The Ocean Club, the exquisite resort set on Versailles-like grounds in the Bahamas, have set the bar high. Now celebrating 61 years on a pristine stretch of white sand beach on Paradise Island, The Ocean Club is a bastion of celebrities and in-the-know travelers with a taste for plush, but understated luxury and storied glamor. “Four Seasons today is a brand that people equate with exceptional experiences and the lifelong memories that come with them,” Isadore says. And it’s high time you made some of your own. With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, the resort is hosting a Return to Paradise offer that includes a fourth night free and round trip airport transfers that will put a romantic getaway – and the possibility of an unforgettable adventure for the kids – within effortless reach. Part of the charm of The Ocean Club is its unique location, which was featured in the 2006 James Bond film Casino Royale. The Club has welcomed European royalty, The Beatles and Whitney Houston and was the site of the wedding of supermodel Cindy Crawford and Casamigos creator Rande Gerber.
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T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TRAV E L
The Hartford Courtyard of The Ocean Club The Ocean Pool features an infinity edge.
Carefree beach lifestyle The spa features indoor and outdoor amenities.
One of three pools that beckon the traveler.
The terraced gardens were inspired by Versailles.
Swimming pigs in the Exuma Islands excursion The inviting exterior of the stately Ocean Club.
Luxury and relaxation await.
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The Ocean Club sits on a pristine stretch of white sand beach.
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Paddleboarding is one of many outdoors activities to enjoy. With only 107 rooms, The Ocean Club offers both luxury and privacy.
Waterfront dining at DUNE by Jean-Georges
Encompassing 35 acres, the resort includes only 107 rooms, offering a rare combination of both luxury and privacy. In addition to the inviting turquoise waters of the beach, the resort grounds boast three pools, European fountains and statues and dining hot spot DUNE by Jean-Georges. In 2016, The Ocean Club began a multi-million-dollar renovation of the Hartford Wing and has followed that with the newly renovated Crescent Wing. With classical Bahamian architecture and style as its inspiration, the wing reimagines the secluded enclave-style resort arrangement and terraced gardens. The Crescent’s guest rooms and suites now offer a relaxing aqua, grey, taupe and gold palette with bamboo-framed mirrors, deep soaking tubs and curved wall mosaics. Private terraces and balconies overlook the Atlantic Ocean and verdant lawns spotted with hammocks and Adirondack chairs for lounging. Select rooms include connecting capabilities for families. The Ocean Club has everything to make yours a rejuvenating and tranquil stay. The resort fee includes daily complimentary fitness classes, a signature Ocean Club beach bag, chaise loungers, umbrellas and beach service, non-motorized water sports, paddle boards and bicycles and access to tennis courts, rackets and balls. The resort’s three pools include the oceanfront infinity-edge Ocean Pool, the adult-only Versailles Pool and the Family Lagoon Pool, with ample space to splash and play. Guests can also enjoy a match at one of the resort’s six Har-Tru tennis courts or hit the links at the 18-hole Tom Weiszkopf-designed Ocean Club Golf Course. Want to extend your swimming to something a little more singular than the pool? Book a tour to the Exumas, a lovely island chain where you can swim with the adorable feral pigs who’ve made the region world famous. Bringing the whole family? The Ocean Club’s exclusive partnership with Atlantis Waterpark and Golf Course means complimentary shuttle service to their properties as well as a welcome amenity for kids at Kids for All Seasons. In fact, kids ages 4 to 12 can enjoy action-packed days at the complimentary day camp, while their parents luxuriate by the pool or at The Spa, a Balinese-style retreat featuring private outdoor spaces and soaking tubs. To say the newly imagined Ocean Club has thought of everything is an understatement. It recently announced a bespoke shoe collection by Stubbs & Wootton and a commemorative coffee table book featuring guests’ everlasting memories. “Throughout the last six decades, the property has become an iconic grande dame of the Caribbean, with so many incredible stories to tell,” says General Manager John Conway. “We want to bring these stories to life.” fourseasons.com/oceanclub
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The Consignment King ARTICLE BY MEREDITH GUINNESS
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“It allows me to be myself and integrate my personality, but also provide a service.” Remember when your mom saw a TikTok on Swedish Death Cleaning and decided it was high time to empty out the attic and sail to Aruba with the profits? Well, she might be onto something. The 12-place setting china service and that wince-inducing floral sofa aren’t going to be hot sellers – even thrift shops won’t accept the latter. But there are treasures to be mined among the trash and Tom Santilli – AKA The Consignment King – is just the guy to find them. Resplendent in his cardboard crown and satiny cape, Santilli – who also goes by “Tommy Coupons” – is a state Instagram star, alternately doling out sage advice for potential sellers and organizing prime estate sales and commercial liquidations across Connecticut and Westchester County, NY. If you need a pizza oven, a Porsche Boxster, or a Pirates of the Caribbean pinball game, chances are he can hook you up. If you want to know if Dad’s timepiece is a real Rolex, he’s got your back there, too. “It doesn’t feel like work,” Tom says of the business he’s built for five years now, “It allows me to be myself and integrate my personality, but also provide a service.” Tom’s vocation started back when he was in middle school, selling collectibles online. By the time he finished his degree in Family Business & Entrepreneurship at St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, his friends’ moms were calling him to help clear out their garages and sell whatever he found.
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Tom Santilli/ The Consignment King theconsignmentking.com @consignmentking_
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In recent years, he’s coordinated on-site and online sales for residents moving South, families whose loved ones have passed, empty nesters and restaurants refreshing their equipment. Why should you opt for Tom instead of a tag sale? “It’s time consuming and a lot of work,” he says. “It’s always easier to have a professional service come in, especially when it comes to valuing things.” What’s hot these days? Mid-century modern furniture and housewares, including bamboo, blond wood and vintage Fiestaware, and pieces from popular brands like Crate & Barrel, Restoration Hardware and Pottery Barn. Anything that’s pure silver or gold and trending jewelry and gently used sectionals and leather couches are also hot commodities online, Tom says. Not so Grandma’s beloved mahogany dining room hutch. Even many Lenox vases – once bridal shower staples – are selling for $10 or less, Tom says. But it’s often hard to predict what will sell on any given day. Tom once found a buyer for a huge train set and 150 feet of track that a genial Ansonia man set up in his backyard. He’d dress like Santa and take the neighbor kids for Christmas time rides. The Consignment King videos have a fair fanbase on social media and Tom says he enjoys donning the crown. “I’ve been told I should go into acting,” he says.
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ARTICLE BY MEREDITH GUINNESS
CAREY MACK WEBER IS ONE OF CONNECTICUT’S GREATEST ART CHAMPIONS Carey Mack Weber
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Carey Mack Weber is not an artist. “I had to take a studio art class in college and… I can’t create art,” she freely admits. “That’s why I have the most incredible admiration for people who
people into the university galleries to view the exhibition and attend lectures and discussions while attracting more than 33,000 worldwide for virtual tours and recorded programs.
“NOT ALL THE GREAT ART IS IN NEW YORK CITY. THERE ARE GREAT MUSEUMS IN CONNECTICUT. THEY ARE ONE OF THE STATE’S GREATEST ASSETS.” can. And I feel like the luckiest person in the world, doing what I do.” Actually, admiration is a lot of what the longtime Westport resident does – and has done extremely well for decades as a leader on the Connecticut art scene. While she might not consider herself an artist, the current Frank and Clara Meditz executive director of Fairfield University Art Museum (FUAM) and president of Connecticut Art Trail is certainly blessed with a keen eye for spotting talent and a creative mind for bringing it to art lovers across the region and around the world. Executive director since 2019, Carey has curated or co-curated 16 exhibitions at Fairfield, ranging in diversity from the highly collaborative “Birds of the Northeast: Gulls to Great Auks” to the edgy “Not Ready to Make NiceThe Guerrilla Girls in the Artworld and Beyond.” Last semester’s “In Real Time - Arthur Szyk: Artist and Soldier for Human Rights,” which she was instrumental in bringing to campus, proved a smash hit, bringing more than 4,500
“This fall has been a whirlwind,” she says. “It’s done what we expected. It’s been the second biggest exhibition we’ve ever had. It’s just been great!” Born into an art-loving, museum-going family in Massachusetts, Carey fell in love with art as a teen and secured internships when she was still in high school. “That really stoked the fire,” she says. Earning her art history degree from Connecticut College, she soon found herself as a registrar and then gallery director at New York City hot spots like Susan Sheehan Gallery and Edward Tyler Nahem Fine Art. Graduate school called, but she decided to let it ring and stayed on in the city. “It was so much darn fun,” she says of working in galleries. Having moved to Westport, where she and her husband Doug Weber, founder and publisher of Westport Journal, raised their two daughters, she jumped at the chance to work with Fairfield University’s Visual and Performing Arts Department, which
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Carey Mack Weber in the Bellarmine Hall Galleries at Fairfield University
Carey Mack Weber (second from right) with guests at the "Women's Rights are Human Rights" exhibition last spring
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put her on campus at a pivotal time. In 2010, the university unveiled the Bellarmine Museum of Art, where she assisted the founding director, Jill Deupi, Ph.D., in creating the first four years of exhibitions and programming, honing her skills at running what would, with the Quick Center for the Arts’ Walsh Art Gallery, become a key building block of FUAM. Being on a college campus has been a boon for Carey, who is able to collaborate with faculty and experts to create exhibitions that draw in the public while providing fertile ground for exploration by students. The bird exhibition included companion lectures and workshops with biology faculty while the museum’s most popular exhibition, “Art of the Gesù: Bernini and his Age,” brought together for the first time dazzling and historically important works never lent to America that told the story of the rise of the Society of Jesus, the Jesuit founders of Fairfield University. “Everyone gets involved in every part of it,” she says of organizing an exhibition on a college campus. “And you get to learn about world history through the lens of art.” As president of the Connecticut Art Trail, Carey is arguably the head cheerleader for state artists, museums and galleries. The nonprofit is a nationally recognized collection of 24 world-class museums, nature centers and historic sites that promote Connecticut’s cultural sites as part of a travel experience for locals and visitors alike. “Being in Westport, I always say you don’t always need to turn right,” she says with a laugh. “Sometimes you can turn left or north. Not all the great art is in New York City. There are great museums in Connecticut. They are one of the state’s greatest assets.” In fact, Connecticut boasts two of America’s oldest museums in Hartford’s Wadsworth Atheneum and the Yale University Art Gallery in New Haven. She’s thrilled with the new renovations at the Bruce Museum in Greenwich and the Aldrich Museum in Ridgefield is a wonderful place to get to know emerging and contemporary creators.
“CAREY MACK WEBER IS BLESSED WITH A KEEN EYE FOR SPOTTING TALENT AND A CREATIVE MIND FOR BRINGING IT TO ART LOVERS ACROSS THE REGION AND AROUND THE WORLD.” Of course, her hometown is no slouch when it comes to creativity – with MoCA Westport, galleries and the rich tradition of artists and illustrators who made their homes here. The town’s reputation as a haven for the imaginative is well deserved, she says. The Westport Library and the Westport Public Art Collections both have enviable and active art programs, as do the public schools her daughters attended. “I don’t know of any other school system that has the programs that Westport does,” she says. During the pandemic years, art institutions around the world shut their doors and faced a crucial dilemma: Pivot or perish. Carey and her team – who were already offering digital events – beefed up their online features to wildly positive results. FUAM offers everything from virtual tours and interactive lunch-and-learn discussions to online mindfulness meditation sessions based in the galleries, and all of their exhibition materials are available in Spanish to increase accessibility. “When we reopened, we were committed to presenting everything we possibly could in a hybrid way - both in-person and virtual,” she says. “Our audience definitely grew to a global audience. They found us and stayed with us – and we’re going to stay with them.”
Carey Mack Weber discusses images at the "Women's Rights are Human Rights" exhibition last spring.
Carey Mack Weber speaks with guests at Fairfield University's Bellarmine Hall. FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / W E ST P O RT
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FEBRUARY 2024
events A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LO C A L E V E N T S
FEBR UARY 2ND
Groundhog Day SHU Community Theatre | 7:30 PM A weatherman finds himself inexplicably living the same day over and over again. PG for some thematic elements. Visit shucommunitytheatre.org for more information. FEBR UARY 6TH
MLK Celebrations – Dreaming and Doing: Transforming Education The Quick Center for the Arts | 5:30 PM The theme of this year’s MLK Celebrations – Dreaming and Doing: Transforming Education – is an invitation to think intensively and critically about questions of social justice and education with Dr. Bettina Love, who will give the Convocation Address. FEBR UARY 8TH
Verso University Presents: French Wine Theory
1 - 0 N - 1 T R E AT M E N T S ORTHO/SPORTS
Westport Library | 2:00 PM
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Delve deep into French Wine Knowledge with Certified Sommelier Barbie Messa at Westport Library's 4-session course, running Thursdays, February 8-29, 2-3 pm in the Brooks Program Room. Explore Burgundy, Bordeaux, Rhône Valley, culminating in a tasting. Gain confidence in wine selection and enhance your tasting experience. Limited spots available for $25. Age 21+. eventbrite.com to register.
F E BRUA RY 8T H
Craft + Sip: Candle Making Earthplace | 6:00 PM Earthplace hosts a candle-making night! Roll and decorate unique beeswax candles while socializing with drinks and snacks. Bring your favorite beverage; supplies provided. Earthplace.org for tickets while space is available. F E BRUA RY 8T H
Literature & Libations Book Club Special Event J.B. Percival | 6:30 PM The Fairfield Public Library and J.B. Percival team up for a unique experience: book talk, cocktails, nosh, and laugh. Kelsey James, author of February’s book selection, The Woman in the Castello, will be joining for the book discussion. Registration is required. fairfieldpubliclibrary.org F E BRUA RY 8T H
ACS Women Leading The Way Galentine's Day Kick-off Party West, 117 Post Rd E, Westport | 6:00 PM Gather your best gal pals and join ACS Women Leading The Way To Wellness for a Galentine's Day event to sip, shop, and share your reasons for choosing yourself! Please RSVP at acswomenandwellness.com
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P R I VAT E E V E N TS | T E A M O U T I N G S C H R I ST M A S PA RTY D E TA PA S S PA N I S H G A ST R O B A R I S S PAC I O US A N D F U N CT I O N A L R E STAU R A N T TO ACCO M M O DAT E S M A L L TO L A R G E G R O U PS FO R YO U R O CC A S I O N . C A L L US N OW TO B O O K YO U R N E XT S P E C I A L E V E N T ! !
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FEBR UARY 9 TH
4th Annual Love Our Community Fundraiser to Benefit Alliance for Community Empowerment. The Inn at Longshore | 06:30 PM Join the Alliance for Community Empowerment for its 4th Annual Love Our Community Event, celebrating the strength and love for the community in its 60th year! Tickets include a Red Carpet Experience, 4-Course Dinner, Photobooth, Silent Auction, DJ, Live Band, Special Alliance Program, and more! alliancect.org for tickets FEBR UARY 10 TH
An Evening With Audra McDonald Westport Country Playhouse 25 Powers Ct, Westport, CT | 7:00 PM Audra McDonald, a six-time Tony Award winner and acclaimed singer-actor, boasts a prolific career with two Grammys, an Emmy, and a National Medal of Arts. Her diverse roles span Broadway hits like "Carousel" and "Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill." Catch her exceptional artistry live. Visit westportplayhouse.org for ticket information. FEBR UARY 17TH
TA PA S & PA E L L A AT H O M E ? C A L L US N O W TO F I N D O U T M O R E A B O U T O U R P I C K U P, C AT E R I N G O R D E L I V E RY O PT I O N S W I T H U B E R E ATS
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Hoopla show The Trefz Forum, The Westport Library | 2:00 PM Witness the high-energy extravaganza at Westport Library's Bring the Hoopla show! Enjoy comedic acts, thrilling hoop-dance performances, and interactive fun for all ages. Discover the joy of self-expression and embracing strengths. Don't miss this family-friendly event! Thanks to Roz & Bud Siegel, the Family Show series continues to thrive. westportlibrary.org
ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS
When my kids were little, we would address valentines to classmates, deliver flowers to neighbors and decorate the house with hearts and snowflakes (cut from white coffee filters). For dinner, I would make their favorite meal: dessert! Why not? I'd melt chocolate (the good stuff) and let them line up their dippers. They thought dessert for dinner was magical. Of course, I'd fed them a protein-packed after-school snack and served "dinner" early so they could get their sugar wiggles out before bed. Delightful! Happy Valentine's Day!
Th e Spi ke d Jone s • • • •
1/2 cup milk 1 cup heavy cream 1/4 cup whole coffee beans 2 ounces semisweet chocolate (61% Valrhona), chopped • 2 tablespoons Kahlua • 1 teaspoon confectioner's sugar • 1 tablespoon dark chocolatecovered coffee beans, chopped
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, 1/2 cup cream, and whole coffee beans. Bring to a simmer, turn off heat, cover, and steep beans for 1 hour. Strain liquid and return to saucepan; discard beans. Bring the milk-and-cream mixture back to a simmer, add chocolate, and whisk until incorporated. Remove from heat; whisk in Kahlua. Whip remaining 1/2 cup cream and the confectioners' sugar until soft peaks form. Divide the hot chocolate between 2 cups and garnish each portion with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkling of chopped chocolate-covered coffee beans.
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PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
DIY VALENTINES
ARTS
ARTICLE BY CHERYL PARTON
1. Arts Create heart ornaments to hang on a Valentine’s Day tree. The ornaments can be used as clue cards for a Valentine's Day scavenger hunt. Participants find their picture on the tree and hunt for a hidden treasure.
2. Sweets A home-based holiday is made complete with a dessert table. Whether made from scratch or store bought, a collection of decorated confections is as beautiful as the treats are delectable to eat.
3. Sentiments Poetry is a most personal way to express your heart. No need to be intimidated by haiku, a short form of Japanese poetry. While there are several variations of the form, a traditional place to begin is with a seasonal word that divides 17 syllables into three lines of five/ seven/five. Simple and sweet.
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H OW TO | ENTERTAI NMENT
SENTIMENTS
The first Valentines were handmade in the 18th century, long before printing presses and mass-produced options. Today, handmade signifies the ultimate in personal mots d’amour. Enjoy these sweet projects as a couple, a family, or with friends.
SWEETS
Simple Projects to Celebrate at Home
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