DECEMBER 2018

LifestylePubs.com/Westport

LOOK BET TER, FEEL BET TER, LIVE BET TER S e r v i n g Fa i r f i e l d C o u n t y f o r Tw e n t y Ye a rs

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TA N YA F U TO RYA N M . D .

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

DECEMBER 2018 PUBLISHER

Marisa MacLean | marisa.maclean@lifestylepubs.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sophia Babun, Anna Barnes, Jen Berniker, Matthew MacLean CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Auld Lang Syne

Mindy Briar, John Videler

AS THE SAYING GOES, TIME FLIES WHEN YOU’RE HAVING FUN. Time sure has flown by this year as we can’t believe we’ve put together the final issue of Westport Lifestyle in 2018! It seems like just yesterday we were sitting down to write our premiere letter to all of you! There’s a unique perspective that working in publishing brings. While we certainly don’t want to wish our lives away, we’re always looking toward the future. Whether it’s planning our next issue or developing story ideas for the next year, we’re often already fast-forwarded to future months before the current month has even begun. The fast-paced lifestyle this industry calls for can often make it difficult to really settle down and absorb what’s going on around us and, before we know it, the year is over and it’s time to move forward again. So this December, we hope you take the time to slow down a little bit. With the holiday season upon us, we hope you make the time to take it all in. Enjoy your time with family and friends, bask in the magic of the winter season, reflect on past memories you hold closely in your hearts and keep the new ones you create in the present for as long as you can. We’ll take your lead, and we can’t wait to see you next year!

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin EDITORIAL Kate Baxendale AD MANAGER Chad Jensen AD COORDINATORS Cyndi Harrington | Alicia Huff | Jessica Soetaert LAYOUT DESIGNERS Cyndi King | Dana Rudolph | Emily Stout Hailey Stepanek | Adella Wrisinger FIELD SUPPORT Carli DiMarco | Victoria Perry PUBLISHER SUPPORT Melanie Carlisle ACCOUNTANT Austin Park APPLICATION ARCHITECT Michael O’Connell WEB DEVELOPERS Tejaswini Jagarlamudi | Harshith Potu

Marisa MacLean, Publisher

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

ON THE COVER Local gift options from our Holiday Gift Guide. Pictured: Entrée Nous book with stunning blooms from Fresh Flower Bar and handcrafted chocolate by BE Chocolat.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY BRIAR 4

Westport Lifestyle | December 2018

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

LifestylePubs.com/Westport

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 areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Westport Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2018

FEATURES 16 A Visit to Santa’s House Over the River and through the Woods to Burr Homestead We Go

18 Holiday Gift Guide Our Favorite Gifts This Holiday Season

24 ‘Tis the Season... ...to Outsource Dinner

18 16

28 It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year At the No. 1 Beach in the World

28

24

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

16

Open House

24 Hot Spot 28 Travel Destination 32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Parting Thoughts

Call 203-616-5847

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GOOD TIMES 1.

2.

3.

Westport Lifestyle Magazine Official Launch Party Westport Lifestyle magazine celebrated its official launch party at Design Within Reach. The 100-plus guests included clients of the publication, key community members and local celebrities. Garelick &  Herbs  catered the event while Nomad Pop-Up Bar mixed signature cocktails for the crowd. The party was planned by Pink House Productions and hosted by Westport Lifestyle publisher  Marisa MacLean.

6.

PHOTOGRAPHY: JOHN VIDELER  View more photos at LifestylePubs.com/Westport

4.

5.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

1. Dr Christine Gould, Marisa MacLean, Brook Fulton and Mike Fulton | 2. Stacie Waldman, Rafaella Kerner and Ashley Lancer | 3. Rhodie Lorenz and Adam Vengrow | 4. Westport Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker, Shari Lebowitz and Marisa MacLean | 5. Guests anxiously await to hear if they’ve won a raffle prize. | 6. Aaron O’Leary and Jenna McIntyre from Nomad Pop-Up Bar | 7. Deb Lomma, Renee Lucarelli, Samantha Kempster | 8. Dr. Masha Kogan, Dr. Virginia Romano and Marisa MacLean | 9. Westport Mom Megan Rutstein, Haley Kraut, Caryn Herbst and Lauren Nathan | 10. Heather Garofalo, Susie Blumenfeld and Lori Costello | 11. Sophia Babun and Mindy Briar | 12. Natalie Devine and Ada Vidal-Sierra 8

Westport Lifestyle | December 2018

DR. MASHA KOGAN & DR. VIRGINIA ROMANO 203.227. 87 00 • D E N TA LC E N T E R W E S T P O RT. C OM • 250 M A I N S T R E E T, W E S T P O RT

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AROUND TOWN

WESTPORT HISTORICAL SOCIETY The Westport Historical Society is getting into the swing of the holidays with a December that’s packed with events for all. The halls of Wheeler House, where WHS is headquartered, will be decked out to celebrate winter festivities from Christmas and Hanukah, to the solstice celebrations to Kwanzaa and Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights. A full roster of programs offer plenty to do from gingerbread house building workshops, to Santa Days, to sleigh rides to Solstice Story Telling, clay menorah decorating  and more. The Shop at Wheeler house has unique holiday gifts you won’t find anywhere else in Westport. Details at WestportHistory.org.

HOLIDAY ART FETE DEC. 1 Join the Westport River Gallery from 5-8 p.m. on Dec. 1 for its annual Holiday Open House. Enjoy a glass of wine and refreshments as you listen

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Westport Lifestyle | December 2018

to live music and meet several artists. Exhibit will include new art by French artists Caudron and Courchia, and American artist H.M. Saffer. There will also be new modern and impressionist art exhibited by American artists in attendance: Mona, J. Fatse and V. Andriotis. All sales will benefit the homeless. One Riverside Ave., Westport. WestportRiverGallery.com

ROTHBARD’S CHRISTMAS VILLAGE Beginning Black Friday and continuing every weekend until Christmas, Rothbard Ale + Larder will be setting up its own mini-German Christmas Village on Bard Alley. This outdoor pop-up shop will service Westport’s holiday shoppers, providing warm adult beverages, hot cocoa for kids, traditional German Christmas ornaments  and beer-themed gifts. The owners will be giving away cookies, freshly baked from old family holiday recipes, and may enlist festive carolers to make an appearance.  It will be an experience of warmth, family and friends, with the signature inviting-style that Rothbard delivers so well.

WOLF + FRIENDS APP: CO-FOUNDED BY A LOCAL MOM The Wolf + Friends app is designed for moms to connect with like-minded women in their neighborhoods who are also raising children with special needs such as autism, anxiety, ADHD, sensory processing issues, developmental delays, mental health issues, Down syndrome and other learning differences. In a judgement-free space, members will create a support system via direct messages and group chats, making connections CONTINUED >

December 2018 | Westport Lifestyle

11

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Westport Lifestyle | December 2018

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December 2018 | Westport Lifestyle

13

AROUND TOWN

with new friends and mentors. The community will also have access to a curated content feed where they can read relevant news, shop stylish and developmentally appropriate products and get lifestyle tips from experts.

WESTPORT’S 27TH ANNUAL TREE OF LIGHT CEREMONY Westport’s 27th Annual Tree of Light ceremony will be held on Thursday, Dec. 7 at Saugatuck Congregational Church (245 Post Road East, Westport) from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. The ceremony honors the memory of departed family members and friends and is hosted by

Visiting

Nurse

Services

of

Connecticut (VNS). All are invited to participate in the candle and tree lighting, memorial roll and a brief reception following the nondenominational ceremony.

We are always accepting submissions

for

announcements

you’d

like to see included in our Around Town

section.

Submissions

are

accepted via the Contact Us tab at LifestylePubs.com/Westport. 14

Westport Lifestyle | December 2018

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OPEN HOUSE

A VISIT TO SANTA’S HOUSE OVER THE RIVER AND THROUGH THE WOODS TO BURR HOMESTEAD WE GO ARTICLE SOPHIA BABUN

IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR—A TIME FOR SLEIGH RIDES, HOT

entertainment and will do so again this year. They have these

CHOCOLATE AND, MOST IMPORTANTLY, TIME TOGETHER

amazing costumes, and they do full stage makeup. It is really

WITH FAMILY. What better way to get into the holiday spirit than

unbelievable,” Jen says. “Additionally this year, we are going

with a visit to Santa’s House with your loved ones? Santa’s House

to open on Thursday and Friday evenings. Thursday will be a

in Fairfield is an annual holiday fundraiser event run by the Junior

Holiday Trivia Night, sponsored by Fairfield Craft Ales, and Friday

Women’s Club.

there will be an extended performance of The Nutcracker. We are

“JWC is a group of women of all different age groups. We’ve been around for over 50 years,” says Jen Hinkle, president of JWC’s Fairfield chapter. “We’re a service club, and our biggest fundraiser is Santa’s House.” Each year, the proceeds of Santa’s House are donated to a different recipient. This year, proceeds will be donated to the Friends of the Fairfield Public Library, and these funds will help bring back the popular One Book One Town event in March 2019. Many of the

calling the Thursday and Friday evening events ‘Santa’s House After Dark.’” The spectacular decorations at Santa’s House are another exciting feature of the event. Local designers volunteer to decorate each room with carefully curated holiday decor, creating a magical holiday atmosphere. This whimsical holiday charity event truly has something for everyone.

proceeds will also go to JWC’s scholarship program, which pro-

“One of the big advantages of Santa’s House is you can go and

vides academic scholarships to high school senior women with an

spend as much time there as you want. There isn’t a path that you

exceptional commitment to service.

follow and then it’s done,” Jen says. “You can come and do what-

The Santa's House event, located at the historic Burr Homestead, isn’t Santa’s House in the literal sense but rather a holiday experi-

ever you like and spend the time however you’d like. You could really spend the whole day there.”

ence featuring raffles, a bake sale, live entertainment, crafts, photos with Santa, stories with Mrs. Clause and more.

Santa’s House will run Dec. 6-9. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time on

“For several years, our presenting sponsor, Flash Pointe

the JWC of Fairfield website or at the door. Check out JWCFairfield.com

Dance, has done excerpts from The Nutcracker as part of our live

or follow Junior Women's Club of Fairfield on Facebook for more information.

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Westport Lifestyle | December 2018

GIVE AN EXPERIENCE

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE THESE ARE A FEW OF OUR FAVORITE THINGS ARTICLE ANNA BARNES | PHOTOGRAPHY MINDY BRIAR

If you’re looking to WOW this holiday season with a fabulous experiential gift, we’ve rounded up the best. COOKING CLASS WITH GENEE HABANSKY OF HERBACEOUS CATERING PAIRED WITH NUDO OLIVE OIL ADOPT. This gift is an exquisite option for the chef in your life. Plan an evening in your very own kitchen where Genee guides you through a delightful three-course meal. Add a special touch by adopting an olive tree through Nudo Adopt, which will send your gift recipient their own personalized olive oil. Bon appetit. Starting at $200 ESCAPE TO NYC. Perfect for a romantic weekend if you need a getaway but are short on time. Skip the mundane city staycation and escape to NYC with a leisurely day at AIRE Ancient Baths. From traditional massage packages all the way to wine baths—yes, an actual wine bath—you are sure to leave relaxed, pampered and refreshed. Top off the night at the magical Park Avenue Winter, a fine dining option that switches its menu and decor seasonally. Packages starting at $200 AFRICAN SAFARI. For a gift sure to satiate your loved one’s wanderlust, work with Westport local  Anne Wells of Unite Africa  to design a custom African safari. This gift of a lifetime can be completely tailored to your liking from hot air ballooning over national parks; night game drives; and vis-

Gift Recommendations from...

Deb Lomma

its to the Serengeti, Maasai Mara, Ngorongoro Crater and beyond. Two-week safari packages starting at $5,000 LOVE TO BE LOCAL? GIFT THE ENTRÉE NOUS BOOK WITH STUNNING BLOOMS

DEB LOMMA, OWNER OF THE WINGED TREE,

FROM FRESH FLOWER BAR AND HAND-

IS NOT ONLY A PRO AT CHOOSING GIFTS BUT

CRAFTED CHOCOLATE BY BE CHOCOLAT.

ALSO GIVING THEM. She believes inspired gifts

This gift is fabulous for someone who loves

make for a better world and is helping clients all over

to experience the local flavor in our area. The

Fairfield County and beyond surprise and delight

Entrée Nous booklet is produced yearly and

their loved ones through all gift giving occasions.

allows a buy one, get one entree at participating

Whether you prefer an experiential gift or a keep-

restaurants—perfect for a date night or a series

sake wrapped up with a bow, Deb is full of thoughtful

of fun girls nights out. Paired with beautiful

ideas and inspiration this holiday season.

flowers and delicious chocolate, this gift is sure to be a hit. Starting at $100

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Westport Lifestyle | December 2018

Genee Herbaceous Catering

Nudo Olive Oil

GIVE A KEEPSAKE

Escape to NYC

If a wrapped gift is more your style, there are several heartfelt and local options this holi-

African Safari- Anne Wells

day season. COMMISSIONED ART BY LOCAL ARTIST CHRIS SAINATO. Have a moment or loved one you’d like to freeze in time? Contact Chris to create a custom commissioned piece of art to gift this holiday season. From beloved pets to special moments in time, Chris’ portfolio is vast, impressive and sure to delight the lucky recipient. For more information, visit ChrisSainato.com. Custom art starting at $350

Chris Sainato, artist

SOMETHING SPARKLING BY NOYA. Who doesn’t love a little sparkle during the holidays? This stunning morganite and diamond cocktail ring is sure to steal the show from any glistening of holiday lights. Set in 18K rose gold, the 8.83-carat stone accompanied by four graduated diamonds set on each side is the true definition of holiday cheer. Available at Noya. Inquire for pricing at Stephen Kempson

Noya@NoyaCollections.com. FOR THE SHARP-DRESSED MAN IN YOUR

Noya Ring

LIFE, VISIT STEPHEN KEMPSON FOR HANDMADE BESPOKE AND CUSTOM CLOTHING. While he specializes in suits, jackets, trousers and shirts, his inventory is vast and will absolutely be a stylish upgrade to the recipient’s closet. A stylish man’s dream: handmade silk ties all the way to a bespoke full suit.

CONTINUED >

December 2018 | Westport Lifestyle

19

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

(CON TI N U ED)

Gift Recommendations from...

Dr. Christine Gould GIVE THE GIFT OF YOUTH WITH DR. CHRISTINE GOULD If you’re looking to give the give the gift of youth and rejuvenation, visit Dr. Christine Gould at All About You Med Spa. Dr. Gould has clued us into the groundbreaking technology available at her office that will leave you or your J Plasma

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Westport Lifestyle | December 2018

loved one perfectly refreshed and glowing this holiday season.

Halo

RENUVION POWERED BY J PLASMA - Tighten lax skin with Dr. Gould by choosing Renuvion powered by J Plasma. This procedure is a complete gamechanger as the device tightens the skin by using helium plasma gas. Get facelift-like results with this minimally invasive procedure requiring little downtime. Available for many areas of the body: face, neck, underarms, abdomen, inner thighs—you name it! FOREVER YOUNG BBL - Improve your skin quality with the holy grail of anti-aging with Forever Young BBL. BBL stands for Broad-Based Light and is a quick and easy procedure; the only treatment proven to stop DNA deterioration of the skin with regular use! This treatment produces an even skin tone void Melatonik

of hyperpigmentation, sun spots and vascular lesions. HALO BY SCITON - The most advanced skin revitalization laser on the market, with deep dermal remodeling and minimal surface downtime, is easily Halo by Sciton. This procedure erases wrinkles, pores and scars, as well as tightens the skin and brings a fresh, radiant glow to the skin that lasts. The impact this laser has on the appearance of the skin is dramatic and unparalleled. ISDIN’S MELATONIK is a 3-in-1 night serum that helps your skin recover while you sleep! The serum stimulates your skin’s natural antioxidant defenses, repairs environmental stress and damages, and supports healthy, younger-looking skin. Apply nightly, and wake up with glowing skin.

December 2018 | Westport Lifestyle

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Westport Lifestyle | December 2018

Westport River Gallery International Fine Art

Jesup Hall 90 post road east

Join us for Happy Time!

SAFFER | American

HOLIDAY SHOW | December 1, 5-8pm

TUESDAY THROUGH FRIDAY

5:00-6:30 small plates cocktails beer wine

DINNER

tues & wed starting at 5:00 pm

LUNCH & DINNER

thursday, friday & saturday starting at 12:00 pm VILCAZ | French

One Riverside Ave, Westport 203.226.6934 WestportRiverGallery.com

@jesuphallwestport

@billtaibe

(203)557-6198 // jesuphallwestport.com // info@jesuphallwestport.com

December 2018 | Westport Lifestyle

23

HOT SPOT Paola Garelick puts the final touches on a dish.

Potato latke sampler

‘Tis the Season...

...TO OUTSOURCE DINNER

ARTICLE JEN BERNIKER | PHOTOGRAPHY JOHN VIDELER

YOU HAVEN'T EVEN FINISHED DIGESTING YOUR THANKSGIVING MEAL, AND YOUR DECEMBER TO-DO LIST ALREADY MAKES YOU WANT TO TIME TRAVEL TO JANUARY. Throw in a party to plan, and even the most seasoned host comes up gasping for air. And on the big night, try  figuring out how to be a "guest" at your own  party... December mission impossible?  Possibly, but whether you're hosting an intimate  dinner  or a  New Year's Eve bash, hiring a good caterer might be the call that brings your stress levels from holiday functional to holiday fun.  24

Westport Lifestyle | December 2018

Christmas cookies with strawberry shortcake parfait

“EVERYTHING FROM THE BREADSTICKS AND BAGEL CHIPS TO THE HOLIDAY COOKIES ARE BAKED IN-HOUSE.”

Luckily for Westport area partiers, Paola Garelick is

THE HANUKKAH LATKE LUNCH

on the scene. Twenty-five years ago, she co-founded

"For Hanukkah, we've tried to do all of the traditional

Garelick & Herbs with her business partner, Jason Garelick.

foods but lighter to evolve with how people eat," she says.  

As Celebration Director for the Southport-based food stores

Paola recommends the potato and sweet potato

and caterer, Paola is the best in the business when it comes

pancake platter (also available in gluten-free), served

to party planning, soup to nuts. They can cater your entire

with homemade cinnamon applesauce and sour

meal, provide a bartender, book your florist and music, and

cream. The chicken soup starts with a whole chicken

clean up afterward. Or, if you are someone who loves to

in the pot, "just like grandma did." The fillet of beef

cook and is just short on hands and hours, they can recom-

with homemade horseradish doesn't disappoint. For

mend a few simple sides to complement your meal. You can

an "action station," here's a fun twist on doughnuts:

even borrow from Paola's own carefully curated selection

Choose your doughnut flavor and someone is there to

of platters and servers; just bring them back in on Monday.  

fill it right in front of you.

While Paola runs the front of the house, Jason is the back. As the company's chief purveyor, he scours the market for the freshest ingredients from local, organic farms.

THE NEW YEAR'S EVE BASH For a big event like this, start with a seafood salad

"We cook the rainbow every day," Paola says.

and some Brie with honey ham and Dijon with butter

All sauces are fresh, and they strive to use  ingredi-

biscuits. Anchor your meal  with  signature poached

ents that are all natural and "clean." Everything from the breadsticks and bagel chips to the holiday cookies are baked in-house. We asked Paola and the catering team at Garelick & Herbs to whip up some fresh ideas for this season's main events. Here are their recommendations.

salmon with onion dill sauce. "People love the sticky rice bar. We provide brown rice, lo mein noodles, shaved carrots and mushrooms, and the chef cooks it up for you." And for late-night New Year's,  a  mini-taco bar heaped with ingredients and homemade guacamole and salsa.  

THE CHRISTMAS COCKTAIL PARTY

Signature Garelick & Herb holiday cookies can be

For a big wow, Paola suggests the Italian caponata

done to go with any theme. Paola likes to serve them

platter loaded with fresh cheeses and meats. The tomato

on a bed of freshly shredded coconut "snow." Garelick

shooters with grilled cheese pinwheels are a crowd-

& Herbs can cater to any allergy or adapt recipes to diet

pleaser. So are the pancetta-wrapped shrimp skewers

plans like paleo and Whole 30. So this year, try being a

with cilantro chili sauce.

guest at your own party.  

December 2018 | Westport Lifestyle

25

Le Rouge Chocolates by Aarti

ECLECTIC C O L L E C T IO N O F HA N D PA IN T E D ART I S AN AL CH O CO LAT ES FO R A D I S CERN I N G G LO BAL PALAT E

FR ES H INGR E DIENTS ∙ SM A L L BATC H ∙ G L UTE N F R E E

Our chocolates make great corporate gifts, wedding favors, party favors, & hostess gifts. We are a woman owned small business with strong belief in giving back to the community. Buy anything from the Give a Little Love collection and 10% goes to charity.

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Westport Lifestyle | December 2018

Voted the best Chocolate shop in Westport 2015,2017, 2018 Best of Gold Coast 2016.

INVITATIONS & FINE STATIONERY

Greenwich | Stamford | Nor walk | Southport

Happy Hour

Monday-Friday 5pm-7pm

5A SCONSET SQUARE WESTPORT 203-557-6777 bespokedesigns.com

With decades of experience, Blackstones Steakhouse Group is proud of its impeccable ser vice, ambiance and extraordinar y food.

Check out our website and social media for the latest specials and live music nights. Call to make reservations for our Private Events - Book your Holiday Party with us! 28 W. Putna m Ave, Green w ic h 101 Broad St reet , St a m f ord 181 Main St reet , Nor w a l k 2600 Post Roa d, Sout hpor t

203-661-8700 203-595-5415 203-840-9020 203-955-1470

www.BlackstonesSteakhouse.com

Join us this holiday season for a 10 day shopping event to support the town we love!

Friday November 30 - December 9th

SHOP LOCAL LOVE WITH UP TO 20% OFF and other offerings at partipicating shops and restaurants Purchase your card at WestportMoms.com

December 2018 | Westport Lifestyle

27

TRAVEL DESTINATION

ARTICLE MATTHEW MACLEAN | PHOTOGRAPHY MARISA MACLEAN AND PROVIDED

IT’S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME

OF THE YEAR... AT T H E

N O. 1 B E AC H I N T H E

WORLD WINTER BREAK AT BEACHES TURKS & CAICOS

THE MORNING BEFORE OUR FAMILY LEFT FOR VACATION, I STOOD SHIVERING ON THE WESTPORT STATION PLATFORM, HUDDLED WITH MY FELLOW COMMUTERS AND WAITING FOR THE TRAIN. Chatting as we usually do about the weather, family life and the approaching holidays, I mentioned our destination. Everyone had either already visited or heard wonderful things. I asked a friend if it really lived up to all the hype. He gave me a knowing look. “We’ll talk when you’re back. You’ll see.”

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Westport Lifestyle | December 2018

THE RESORT

The pool at the Italian Village

Upon arriving, we were greeted warmly by the staff. Someone handed me a glass of rum and we were immediately made to feel right at home. The resort is gorgeous with some of the bestkept grounds I’ve ever seen. Tall, stately palms sway in the sun and beautiful flowers grow everywhere along the wide paths, verandas and balconies. There are four distinct areas of the resort. Each one tastefully echoes the regions for which they are named and each has a unique vibe. The Italian area’s buildings are covered in beautiful tile and surround a large pool that hosts daily activities and a convivial crowd of guests. The French area is quieter but boasts a gorgeous pool with gleaming white colonnades. The Key West area is calmer and has an adults-only pool, while the vibe in the Caribbean section is jovial, sporty and active. We spent a lot of time at the Water Park,  Pirate Island with ten waterslides, a lazy river, a surf simulator and kid friendly pools all overseen by trained and certified lifeguards. It was the first place the

Beach Boat

kids wanted to go each morning when they woke up. Nearby is the Red Lane Spa, where my wife got the best deep tissue massage of her life. The facilities were spotless with an attentive staff, steam room and sauna. There are dozens of options for pampering yourself including massages, facials and skin treatments. THE BEACH The beach has been voted the #1 beach in the world and you can immediately see why. The soft sand slopes down to easy breakers, with water that’s just the right temperature and as clear as an aquarium. Our kids marveled at the schools of fish that darted around their legs. You can snorkel from the beach and in addition to the gorgeous coral and bright fish you can often spot green sea turtles gliding in the current. Kayaks, paddle-boards, and other boats, are all included. If you’re a diver or interested in becoming certified, Beaches Turks and Caicos has some of the best Scuba diving in the Caribbean. You can take lessons in the pool before venturing out or sign up for sev-

Fun for the whole family at Kimonos Restaurant. The chefs sing and entertain the crowd while preparing 5- Star Global Gourmet

eral dives nearby. For the adventurous types, you can sign up with Island Routes tours. Named as the leading adventure tour operator in the Caribbean for 2018, they offer cruises, deep-sea fishing, buggy tours, kayak tours, Scuba and more. 5-STAR GLOBAL GOURMET After hurricane Irma, the resort shut down briefly for repairs and a $38 million renovation. Assistant Executive Chef Craig Nazareth took this time to formally train the staff, rotating chefs and servers to each restaurant. It shows as the restaurants exceed expectations. The chefs take pride in their work, bragging to their colleagues when one of their dishes is shared on social media. For those with dietary restrictions, the staff goes to great lengths to ensure there is something delicious for everyone. CONTINUED >

December 2018 | Westport Lifestyle

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TRAVEL DESTINATION

(CON TI N U ED)

I can honestly say I had the best fish of my life at Sapodilla’s, the Caribbean themed restaurant. All of the fish is local and they’ll prepare anything you bring back from a lucky day on the water. People were eager to tell us about their favorite dishes, like the Chicken Liver Pate at the French  Le Petit Chateau.  For lunch, we indulged in different types of Mac n Cheese from the Mr. Mac food truck. Take it from a born and raised New Yorker, the brick oven pizza is awesome. It’s not on the menu, but ask for the Caribbean delicacy Ackee and Saltfish. You won’t be disappointed. THE KIDS The warmth, professionalism and kindness of the child care team at Beaches Turks and Caicos put me completely at ease. The Sesame Street themed childcare facility is one of the best features of the resort, and the kids spent time playing and actively learning with age appropriate educational activities. The resort has Sesame Street characters on site. Guests can even sign up for a character breakfast and/or a nighttime tuck-in with their favorite character(s).

Group Children’s Activities Manager Fedeline Julian started her career as a baby sitter and worked her way to the top. Her staff remembered the kids’ names, greeted them on sight and clearly cared deeply for their welfare and comfort. Whether your child is three weeks old or thirteen, there is something for everyone. A Nanny can stay in your hotel room while your children nap and you can drop the pre-teens off at a club just for them for video games, pool or air hockey. Every one of her staff has been trained in working with children and adults with autism. Leaving was hard. After nearly a week, we still had not sampled all that the resort had to offer. Our three year old sincerely begged us to live there forever. Back at the train station, tanned and relaxed, my commuter friends welcomed me back and asked for the verdict. I told them with confidence that the hype is justified. Find the time, book it and go.  The Sandals Foundation is dedicated to playing a meaningful role in the lives of the communities where they operate across

Tiny guests living large in a poolside cabana complete with white-glove butler service

the Caribbean. Every Thursday the Sandals foundation hosts a reading road trip where guests from the resort volunteer to read to children in local schools. More on how they give back to their communities: sandalsfoundation.org To book a trip at Beaches Turks & Caicos, Beaches Ocho Rios or Beaches Negril visit: beaches.com/main For tours visit: islandroutes.com 

COLD WEATHER GOT YOU DOWN? Escape the snow and celebrate your  holiday break at Beaches Turks and Caicos! They were named the Caribbean's Leading All-Inclusive Family resort for the 11th year in a row. With beautiful facilities and the world's #1 beach, it's easy to see why! 30

Westport Lifestyle | December 2018

START YOUR

CELEBRATION WITH US!

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203.557.4789 @blowdry_sw blowdrysouthport.com

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www.lifestylepubs.com/Westport

December 2018 | Westport Lifestyle

31

DECEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

1

6-9

2018 JINGLE BELL RUN

marking the First

Route #1 Post Road. Live music, kosher refreshments, hot latkes, dreidels and

day-themed 5K race series anywhere

DOONEY AND BOURKE: THE BUCKET LIST EXPERIENCE #DOONEYBUCKETLIST

and fight with us to conquer arthri-

Dooney & Bourke Headquarters

tis! The Arthritis Foundation’s Jingle

Don't miss this free Dooney & Bourke

Bell Run is a fun way to get decked out

"bucket list" experience. Experience the

A CHRISTMAS CAROL EXPERIENCE

and be festive while raising funds and

Dooney Tent Sale, Two Dooney and Bourke

Fairfield Burr Homestead

awareness to cure America’s No. 1 cause

Outlet Experiences and retail store! This

Tickets, which also include figgy pud-

of disability. ’Tis the season to live it up

event will give a whole new meaning to

ding and hot cider served during the

and be jolly for a reason!

"shop 'till you drop" and "Dooney Addicts."

play, are $30 for adults and teens (13+),

Sherwood Island State Park

Be part of the longest-running, holi-

1

7

AN EVENING OF BEATLEMANIA

SOCIAL BALLROOM DANCE CLASSES

The

chocolate gelt will be distributed to all.

14

$15 for children 12 and under.

Penfield Pavilion

Hofners, "The

East

Coast's

17

Ballroom Elegance Studio

CHRISTMAS-THEMED COOKING CLASS

Premier Beatles Tribute Band," perform

Fun and easy introduction for beginners

an evening of Beatlemania on Dec.

to Social Ballroom/Latin Dance. Learn

Capture the spirit of the holiday while

1. The Hofners will perform two sets

to dance, build confidence, have fun,

making and decorating Christmas cookies

of Beatles music. The first set will be

enjoy new hobby and dance at any party.

and Christmas chocolate bark. Grades 3-5 

songs from the Sullivan era. The sec-

Salsa, swing, foxtrot, waltz, rumba, cha-

ond will be a reenactment of the 1966

cha-cha and more. Single or couples,

concert in Budokan, Japan. Tickets

any age, beginners are welcome. $25 per

start at $35.

person. BallroomDanceWestport.com

1, 8, 15, 22

9

PHOTOS WITH SANTA

CIRQUE MUSICA HOLIDAY PRESENTS WONDERLAND

Mitchells Westport

Head to Mitchells Westport for photos

BALLET ETUDES: THE NUTCRACKER

Bring your grown-up!

Musica

Holiday

presents

Playhouse

with

their time-honored production of The Nutcracker.  Ticket prices: $45 adults; discounted tickets are $35 for seniors and $25 for students. Available through the box office at 203.227.4177.

Westport Lifestyle | December 2018

30

ence for the whole family featuring the

FROZEN SING-A-LONG

talented cast of Cirque Musica accom-

The Palace Theatre

panied by holiday songs performed by

Relive the magic and sing your heart out to

the Greater Bridgeport Symphony.

the soundtrack of Disney's Frozen! See a sing-a-long version of the hit movie on the

Ballet Etudes Company returns to Country

GIANT SNOWFLAKE WORKSHOP and easy-to-make big paper snowflakes. 

Westport Country Playhouse

Westport

29 Get ready to welcome winter with fun

Wonderland, a fun-filled concert experi-

2

Wakeman Town Farm

The Westport Library - Program Room

Webster Bank Arena

Cirque

with Santa!

32

Eve of Chanukah,

will take place at Stew Leonard’s on

12

big screen in the iconic Palace Theatre!

PUBLIC MENORAH LIGHTING CHANUKAH CELEBRATION

We are always accepting submissions

Public Menorah Lighting & Chanukah

for events you'd like to see included

Celebration at Stew Leonard’s

in our Calendar section. Submissions

The 25th annual public Menorah-

are accepted via the Contact Us tab at

Lighting (18 feet tall) and festivities,

LifestylePubs.com/Westport.

M AY YO U R S M I LE S B E AS

AS T H I S S E A S O N !

Dr. Hannah Ahn is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist | Voted Fairfield County’s TOP PEDIATRIC DENTIST

329 Riverside Avenue Westport | 203-635-7070 |

pediatricdentistryofwestport.com

Whiting Mills Craftspeople Painters Photographers Small Businesses Well-Being . . . and other guest artists

12th Annual Holiday

OPEN STUDIOS December 1 & 2

11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. The Artists at Whiting Mills

100 Whiting Street • Winsted, CT • 860.738.2240 • whitingmills.com December 2018 | Westport Lifestyle

33

PARTING THOUGHTS

GATHER

FROM OURS TO YOURS ARTICLE MARISA MACLEAN PHOTOGRAPHY JOHN VIDELER

WE LOVE OUR COMMUNITY AND CAN'T THANK YOU

To get you into the holiday spirit, we asked The Nomad Pop-Up Bar to

ENOUGH FOR THE CONTINUED SUPPORT OF THIS

come up with a specialty cocktail exclusively for Westport Lifestyle read-

PUBLICATION. We hosted our first official event this year,

ers. The Nomad Pop-Up Bar is a mobile bar service for large or intimate

and our entire team was in attendance. Our writers and pho-

events which brings the bar to you. They have three custom setups to

tographers work tirelessly behind the scenes to make Westport

choose from: handmade wooden bar, small foldout Bohemian-style

Lifestyle unique each month. It truly takes a village, and we think

bar or their brand-new bar trailer on wheels. The Nomad Pop-Up Bar

we have a pretty incredible little village. From the bottom of our

supplies a stylish bar setup, barware, custom artisanal cocktail rec-

hearts, we thank you and wish you a warm holiday season.

ipes, professional bartenders and decorative accents themed to your

XOXO, The Westport Lifestyle Team

event. Hot chocolate and coffee bars are available too. Serving New York City, Connecticut and the Hamptons. Contact them for your next party: NomadPopUpBar.com | Instagram: @nomadpopupbar 

The Westport Lifestyle team: John Videler, Jen Berniker, Marisa MacLean, Mindy Briar, Sophia Babun and Anna Barnes. Photo by John Videler The Nomad Pop-Up Bar's Orange and Pomegranate Sparkler.

ORANGE AND

DIRECTIONS

POMEGRANATE SPARKLER

Using lemon wedge, moisten the rim of your Champagne flute. Place gran-

INGREDIENTS

lemon-coated rim in the granulated

+ 2 tablespoons pomegranate juice

sugar. Add liquor, pomegranate juice

+ 1 teaspoon pomegranate arils

and arris to Champagne flute. Top with

+ Your favorite prosecco

your favorite prosecco. Garnish with

+ Lemon wedge

fresh mint. Cheers!

+ Granulated sugar + Fresh mint for garnish 34

Westport Lifestyle | December 2018

ulated sugar on a side plate. Swirl the

+ 1 tablespoon blood orange liqueur

GET WHAT YOU

Really Want THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!

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