New Caanan Darien + Rowayton May/June 2021

THE GOOD LIFE:

125

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MAY/JUNE 2021 | $5.95

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Model and fashion designer

Kate Connick

Talks about inspiration, family and how moving back home has changed her

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The

Crown Jewel of

Noroton Heights At 100 years old, Palmer’s is more than just a marketplace.

Its building represents a living history of Darien.

J

oseph Palmer (1903-1994), the second generation of what has become the premiere family-owned grocery store in lower Fairfield County, took over the tiny market from his father, Rocco, in 1937. Along with his wife, Olga, and their sons, Rocky, Joe and Alphonse, Palmer took a store that at the time was “about thirty feet wide and maybe sixty feet long,” he said in an autobiographical piece in 1963, moved it, expanded it, and created what would become a lasting legacy of hard work and community spirit.

“I was probably 10 years old when we had the little store,” said Alphonse. As the last surviving member of his generation, at age 85, he recalls his father’s purchase of a larger space in the former Noroton Heights Center a few years later. “It was right after the war, around 1948, when we moved across the park from where we were to Linden Avenue. That spot is now Post 53,” he added.

“He bought it for $1,200, including the delivery truck and all the product in the store. I would sometimes be in

the car with him when he would stop by McTaggert’s on our way home to make payments. My father paid him in small increments, keeping track of them on a paper bag.” This tally, with Joseph’s original signature, is displayed to this day at the back of the current Palmer’s Market, not far from the bakery section.

The Great Depression and post-World War II era became the challenging backdrop for a family business whose determined and focused patriarch would forge on. “During the Great Depression, people barely existed,” wrote Joseph. “The grocery business was so different then. We did anything to save a penny, and there weren’t many to be found. After the war, business became our focal point. The Heights merchants knew that we had to work together if we wanted to keep the Heights on the map. We formed the Noroton Heights Business Association and started all kinds of local promotions. We planted a big Christmas tree in the park and held annual carol sings with our own Santa Claus and candy for the kids. The park was a center for all the activities of the business area.”

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“We began to hear rumors from Hartford about the plans for a superhighway. We couldn’t believe that it was planned to 1 completely wipe out the Heights Center. The association tried One hundred years after Rocco Palmer192established his small to get the town to rezone twenty-eight acres for a shopping butcher shop-turned-grocery, and 84 years after his son, center to serve all of Darien, but we were turned down. We had Joseph, took over, Palmer’s is the sole surviving business from to start looking to relocate.” the days when the interstate came through Darien P R O U D LY C E L E B R AT I N G and took out its vibrant town green. But a century With little time to spare, by the time the bond for later, the Palmers family continues to serve as a the highway was approved, Joseph had purchased beacon for the community and its people. a space at the current location on Heights Road, at YEARS Said the late Joseph in his earlyYEARS a site just across from where the store sits today.

60s article, The new store opened in 1957 and, after stints that presaging a centennial celebration that has included college, military service, satellite stores, arrived at last, “We are now proud that the next and airplane engineering, the three brothers all regeneration is taking hold. Maybe Palmers will converged to work the business as a family around make it to their one hundredth year, who knows?” that time. “Rocky took over the meat department from my father,” said Al. “Joe took over groceries from my mother, and I handled dairy, frozen food, and later, produce.” palmersdarien.com 1 0 0 Y E A R S264 O F Heights Road, Darien CT After another six years, the family leased the property on the east side of the shopping center, where the present structure was DARIEN, CT

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built, and subsequent generations of Palmers have continued to expand its offerings, adding a variety of specialty departments, from a flower and garden shop and a gift department, to a of history scratch bakery and state of the art caterer’s kitchen.

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The store had only been at its new location for six years when Joseph was presented with yet another hurdle.

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Opposite, the first store in Noroton Heights in 1921. After the interstate was planned to wipe out the store's previous location, Celebrating Joseph Palmer (above) moved the store to a location just across the plaza from its current location around 1957.

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contents MAY/JUNE 2021 vol. 21 | issue 3

features 50

departments

58

12 EDITOR’S LETTER

HOMETOWN GIRL

THE GOOD LIFE

15 STATUS REPORT

Model and designer Kate Connick is more inspired than ever as she moves back home to New Canaan

Everything you need to live your best life right here in Fairfield County

BUZZ Classic Prep opens up shop in Rowayton; Major color pop at TONK SHOP Things mom and dad really want GO A staycation at The Mayflower Inn; Islands you’ll want to visit ASAP DO Hair-care and skin-care tips from the pros HOME The Finish will design your nest; musthaves from our local shops EAT Festive fare at The Back End; sushi made special at home

b y j ul e e k a pl an

b y mary-k ate ho g a n, j i ll johnson m a nn, liz barron a nd m eg a n g ag non c ov er photo g r a ph: by a ndrea ca rs on on th e c over : k at e c onnick at elm re staur an t, new ca na a n; ha i r : george papad op oul os /k ik l o s a l on, new ca na a n makeup : krist en fiori m a nicure: t o + from , dari e n ; fashion st yli ng : l auren perez, l auri n e g roup; fashion: brunell o cucinelli jac ket at m it ch ells , west p ort

42 MONEY MATTERS 87 INDEX OF ADVERTISERS 88 POSTSCRIPT

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36

JULIE BIDWELL

Cocktails galore at The Back End in New Canaan—sangria, Daredevil margarita and the Chocolate and Smoke

newcanaandarienmag.com

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In the July/August issue, we reveal the winners of our highly anticipated readers’ poll:

BEST OF THE GOLD COAST CT!

Also, because you love your town the most, we share Best of Town winners, too. Did your favorites, win?

We’ll know soon.

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PHOTOGRAPHY: DRINK COURTESY BASSO RESTAURANT & WINE BAR • SARINA GALU AND CINDY WILLIAMS OF NOOISH BY ANDREA CARSON PHOTOGRAPHY • PRIM ROOM DESIGN BY JULIA D’AGOSTINO • SMARTPHONE © 1380632883310 - STOCK. ADOBE.COM • ARROW BY © REY - STOCK.ADOBE.COM • BEACH BY DIANE SEMBROT

CELEBRATING THE SCENE STEALERS

The Darien Sport Shop and Zangrillo family have been a meaningful part of our journey since our first year in business. We’re proud to share the Good Life with the Darien community for over 20 years.

Congrats!

We learned so much from Mr Z., Gina and the DSS team and are so thankful for their support and mentorship over the years.

Wine & Dine “Imaginative farm-to-table dining” Town & Country Magazine

winvianfarm.com

singular in design “Edgy incarnations of luxury” Condé Nast Traveler

winvianfarm.com

VOLUME 21

ISSUE 3

MAY/JUNE 2021

editorial

sales + marketing Gina Fusco

editorial director Cristin Marandino editor Julee Kaplan

publisher

style director Megan Gagnon

gina.fusco@moffly.com

advisory editor Donna Moffly

Jonathan W. Moffly art senior art director Venera Alexandrova senior art director/status report Garvin Burke production director Tim Carr design assistant Taylor Stroili

publisher, athome, greenwich, fairfield living

jonathan.moffly@moffly.com Gabriella Mays publisher, westport

gabriella.mays@moffly.com contributors editors

Karen Kelly-Micka

Elizabeth Hole - editor, custom publishing Diane Sembrot - editor, fairfield living; westport; stamford

publisher, stamford

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Amy Vischio - athome creative director-at-large

Rick Johnson account executive

writers

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Liz Barron, Carol Leonetti Dannhauser, Kim-Marie Evans, Malia McKinnon Frame, Mary Kate Hogan, Emily Liebert, Jill Johnson Mann

Hilary Hotchkiss acount executive

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copy editors

Kathleen Godbold

Terry Christofferson, Kathy Satterfield

partnership and big picture manager

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business president Jonathan W. Moffly chief revenue officer Andrew Amill editorial director Cristin Marandino director of content strategy Diane Senbrot business manager Elena V. Moffly cofounders John W. Moffly IV and Donna C. Moffly

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published by 205 Main Street, Westport, CT 06880 phone: 203-222-0600 fax: 203-222-0937 mail@mofflymedia.com Publishers of FAIRFIELD LIVING, GREENWICH, NEW CANAAN - DARIEN, WESTPORT, STAMFORD and athome Magazines advertising inquiries Lemuel Bandala email advertise@mofflymedia.com.

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editor’s letter

MAY/JUNE 2021 / JULEE KAPLAN

FRESH START

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real shining light. Her passion for what she does and her love of her family and hometown really come through in her personality and I’m so lucky to have been inspired by her too.

And it doesn’t stop there. Our feature on “The Good Life” (page 58) is a snippet of all the fabulousness that comes with living here.

The best ideas in home design, how to book that private flight, style advice and even the best dog parks—it’s all in there. So, whether you’re new here or have been living here for years, make sure you check out our guide to everything stellar in and around our towns.

Also, we have some great ideas for Mother’s Day and Father’s Day gifting, a review on The Back End (spoiler—it’s SO good), a new shopping spot in Rowayton and all the best in beach reading. This was a fun one to put together and we hope you’ll enjoy.]

Before I go—we are trying a little something new. Make sure you check out our new Flowcodes here on this page and on some others through this issue. Open your phone camera and you’ll be taken right to our website. Just an easy way for you to get to our digital content. Pretty sweet.

Happy spring!

julee.kaplan@moffly.com

PHOTO BY KYLE NORTON

S

omehow, this spring seems even more special than years before. Maybe it’s the overall hopeful feeling that’s coming from that light at the end of this Covid tunnel.

Maybe it’s the fact that we can finally put those winter coats away and get back outside. Maybe it’s that we might be able to travel again—soon.

Whatever it is, I’m loving it.

This issue is all about what life here in southern Connecticut is all about. Like that one gorgeous day in late March when we shot our cover girl, Kate Connick, in downtown New Canaan. Sure, she may have two famous parents who chose New Canaan to raise their three daughters but getting to know Kate was all about learning of her as humble, sweet and driven. Our team here at the magazine was so inspired that just working with her sparked our own creativity and reminded us about what we love about being here. Getting to know Kate meant seeing that she truly believes in striving for better and working hard to get there. Make sure you read all about this up-and-coming model and fashion designer in our feature, “Hometown Girl” (page 50).

Her parents, she says, are her mentors and her inspiration. They help her to navigate life and push her to do her best, but obviously they also believe that hard work pays off. Her dad, Harry Connick, Jr, even came out to watch the shoot for a bit, calling himself “just a fan.” As parents, Harry and Jill have clearly done their jobs because Kate is a lovely young woman.

She was fantastic to work with and she is a

THE BEST ORTHOPEDICS

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Our team of experts remains dedicated to making safe, responsible musculoskeletal care available – wherever you are.

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YA R D TO TA B LE

It’s Time to Grow Your Own Food BECOME A HOMEFRONT FARMER

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front vegetable gardens are equally relevant

November, your garden will yield the

today. Just-picked, organic produce can’t

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: homefrontfarmers.com : Like Us on Facebook 20 3 .470.3655 : info@homefrontfarmers.com 14

buzz STATUS REPORT

clockwise from left: Classic Prep’s Josh Jewett and Ginger Drysdale; a peek into the new shop; a classic look in the store’s window; a sweater from the new tennis collection.

SILVER LINING

CLASSIC PREP CHILDRENSWEAR SEES RECORD GROWTH AND EXPANSION by julee k apl an • photo gr aphs by andrea carson

I

If there ever was a truly positive tale to tell during this pandemic, it lies in the story of Classic Prep Childrenswear (CPC).

You may have noticed the prime real estate the brand now has at 161 Rowayton Avenue. CPC owners and Rowayton residents GINGER DRYSDALE and JOSH JEWETT decided late last year to open their expanded headquarters and first retail outpost there shortly after The Collected Home moved out.

“When I noticed it was available, I just

knew we had to be there,” Drysdale says. “It has a lot of space, it’s right on the water and it’s just the perfect spot for us.”

Some might call them crazy to open a shop when so many businesses are struggling as Covid-19 rages on—after all, there were a number of scary months in there when some of their retailers canceled or scaled back on orders. But, even with the challenges, CPC is having one of its best years to date.

“May 2020 was a record month and then MAY/JUNE 2021 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

15

every month after that was better and better,” Jewett explains. “We knew we were really onto something and needed to grow.”

In just over one year, they’ve massively expanded, launching a catalog business and focusing more on its website and direct-toconsumer businesses. You can still find the brand at more than 100 high-end specialty stores like Maisonette, Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus, but Drysdale and Jewett saw the pandemic challenges as an opportunity to

buzz

clockwise from top: Mommy and me at Classic Prep is a growing section of the business; Jewett and Drysdale’s daughter, Piper is a regular at the office; Piper’s fashion sketch at her own little desk at the office.

“We want this to be an easy place for moms to come and find everything they need in one place.”

— GINGER DRYSDALE, CO-OWNER

move in a different direction. They more than doubled their team, hiring nine new people to deal with everything from production and sales to digital marketing. They also expanded clothing options to include a children’s and women’s tennis capsule collection, children’s golf, mommy and me, and even a “dad and lad” collection launching in the fall.

“This store is all about getting to know our neighbors and becoming that one-stop-shop for kids,” Drysdale explains. Product will refresh monthly and they plan to expand services in personal and after hours shopping and home delivery. “We want this to be an easy place for moms to come and find

everything they need in one place.”

It was 2015 when then husband-and-wife team Ginger Drysdale and Josh Jewett purchased the CPC brand—Drysdale armed with a background in fashion production and sales and Jewett, an Air Force vet with experience in finance. Shortly after purchasing the young brand, they decided to make a move from New York to Rowayton, the home of New England prep, Jewett recalled. Drysdale, who spent her childhood in Hawaii and Greenwich, loved Rowayton’s charm and seaside chill, making it even more appealing for them to live, work and raise their now seven-year-old daughter, Piper. newcanaandarienmag.com

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Although Jewett and Drysdale ended their marriage, their business partnership remains strong and Jewett even left his position at Goldman Sachs a few years ago in order to run everything on the finance end at Classic Prep.

Known best for its timeless high-end fashion pieces for children, Classic Prep’s team pays close attention to creating clothing that not only appeals to moms (no dry cleaning needed), but also provides comfort and ease for littles. Fabrics are never itchy or rough and prints tend to be playful and full of color. Fabrics are sourced from some of the best factories, like the popular tartan plaid from Scotland which, is often seen throughout the brand’s holiday collections.

Orthopedic precision.

AS SEEN FROM COURTSIDE.

You’re looking at the results of an outpatient knee surgery performed by an ONS fellowship trained sports medicine specialist. The procedure wasn’t based only on the mechanics of a joint but on the patient’s own input. It’s orthopedic medicine that adapts to your lifestyle. Not the other way around.

Don’t feel bad if you can’t see the results. Neither could her opponent. Learn more at onsmd.com.

A more personal road to recovery.

buzz

Everywhere you look in TONK, you see vibrant hues and fun art pieces—all for sale.

Color Story TONK ISN’T YOUR GRANDMOTHER’S ART GALLERY

by eliz abeth hole • photog raph s by vener a alex androva

E

ntering into the newest art gallery in town, you are not only greeted by vibrant paintings, a purple fireplace and metallic gold toilet, but also by The Golden Girls, which plays in heavy rotation and happens to be owner Jo Tonkovich’s favorite TV show. With her “GGs” on in the background, Tonkovich can be found giving tours to art-loving locals and curious passersby at her new interactive space, TONK Gallery, which opened in December at 21 South Avenue in New Canaan.

“Welcome to my brain! I love color,” says Tonkovich, as she explains her vivid abstract pieces made with oils and spray paints. “I do a lot by hand without much brushwork and never create the same piece again, because I get bored.” newcanaandarienmag.com

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Tonkovich works with all types of paint to create custom works for clients ranging from large canvas paintings to lamp shades and bud vases.

“It’s what life should be about—color, happiness and getting out and talking to people.”

—JO TONKOVICH, OWNER/ARTIST, TONK

Clients can buy a Tonkovich original off the wall, commission a special piece or hire her as an art consultant. Her signature works range from $1,800 to $7,000, but she also designs giftable items like one-of-a-kind bud vases starting at $30 and hand-painted lamp shades ranging from $200 to $300. She even paints custom wallpaper, which is on display in the gallery’s faux bathroom.

Tonkovich’s mother, Paula, who was also artistic, died from a missed breast cancer diagnosis in 1993, while father, Paul, passed away in 2019.

The gallery is a love letter to her parents as well as an uplifting outlet during the pandemic.

“TONK is creating something inspirational in a time that is really difficult,” says Tonkovich. “People are craving some sort of normalcy, and this gallery provides that. It’s what life should be about—color, happiness and getting out and talking to people.”

Down the road, Tonkovich envisions the gallery space also being used for parties, yoga sessions and special events. She and husband Dave— who co-owns restaurant and bar The White Buffalo off Elm Street—love to entertain. When she brought their vintage 1960s console and record player to the gallery, along with a large vinyl collection, it was an instant crowd-pleaser. “I love playing records in here and painting at night,” she says. “Our friends always pop in and drop off a record.”

When asked if there will be a joint party with TONK and The White Buffalo, she jokes, “Sure, we’ve got the market covered on art, hot dogs and beer.”

shop B Y ME G A N G A GNO N

PRESENT PERFECT

M

om and Dad deserve something extra-special this year. They’ve always been expert multitaskers but this year demanded a 24/7 on-call schedule, with some even moonlighting as teachers. The easiest gift you can give them is a break, some alone time away from the chaos of everyday life. But we’ve also gathered some thoughtful ideas, small tokens to present as a way to say “thank you” for doing it all.

SHOP RIGHT

STORE IMAGE COURTESY OF DARIEN SPORT SHOP

Shopping alone is a true luxury. And when you have the entire store (and staff) to yourself? That’s even better. Book Mom a private shopping session at Darien Sport Shop so she feel like the queen she is (and get a new wardrobe to match). Tiana twisty chain necklace by Loeffler Randall; $195.

Annisa dress by Ulla Johnson; $395. dariensport.com

newcanaandarienmag.com

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FOR DAD

GO GREEN

Flowers are fine but plants will live longer (fingers crossed) and their staying power will serve as a daily reminder of your thoughtful gift. Search for a vessel with character, like these ceramic ripple vases from Found & Design in New Canaan, which look as great empty as they do full.

Add a plant from your local nursery and you’re good to go. Vases; starting at $40.

Found & Design, New Canaan; foundanddesign.com

HIGH TEE

Give his golf bag a stylish upgrade and then get him a round at his favorite local course. Golf ball case in stripe; $78. J.McLaughlin, Darien, New Canaan; jmclaughlin.com

EASY RIDER

Oh, the places Mom can go on her new commuter bike. Even if she’s not an avid cycler, she’ll enjoy taking a ride on this lightweight model around the neighborhood or into town. Loft 7i Step-Thru bike by Electra $649. Danny’s Cycles, Darien; dannyscycles.com

FACE TIME

You can’t turn back the clock, but an amazing facial might be the closest way to capturing that youthful glow (and who doesn’t want that?).

The services offered at BA Skin Lab are customized for each client, addressing personalized needs with products from cult-favorite skincare brand Biologique Recherche. Get her a gift card and carve out plenty of time for her to spend in relaxation mode. Gift card; starting at $50. BA Skin Lab, New Canaan; baskinlab.com

BETTER SWEATER

Sweatshirts may have been part of the quarantine uniform but we’re sure he’d welcome something with a bit more polish. Cotton crewneck sweater

by Polo Golf; $98.50. Ralph Lauren, New Canaan; ralphlauren.com

BLADE UPGRADE

Don’t even ask how old his current razor is, just replace it with this handsome set. From three centuries-old company Caswell Massey, the razor features a brass handle and a flat black finish.

Caswell-Massey shave soap, Trublack brush and black razor; $162.

Adirondack Store & Gallery, New Canaan; adkstore.com

go Devote some time to fully explore the newly renovated spaces and exquisite grounds at the Mayflower Inn & Spa.

Hit Refresh L

ast year, Mayflower Inn, in Washington, Connecitcut, got its own facelift in the form of a total redesign at the hands of interior designer Celerie Kemble.

Revived with a vibrant color palette and plenty of wallpaper and wicker, Kemble’s executed vision breathes new life into the century-old country retreat. Now the spa has gotten its own refresh—the result of a partnership with New York-based The Well—and a transformation of the 20,000-square-foot space into the ultimate wellness destination.

The Well’s flagship launched at the end of 2019 in Manhattan’s Flatiron District, introducing a new concept promising what the company refers to as “the best of Western medicine and Eastern healing.” Members

have access to a variety of spa services, medical consultations and tailored health plans, all under one exquisitely designed roof. Litchfield County was an obvious choice for their second location—an idyllic alternative to the pace of city life—where the spa’s bucolic setting plays a major role in its offerings. Book a Forest Craniosacral, a treatment that promises to soothe senses and disconnect from modern life, under the canopy of the property’s trees, or opt for a woodland hike complete with forest bathing, a Japanese meditative practice. Inside, you can choose from massages and bodywork focused on lymphatic health before exploring light therapy in a traditional hammam. The biophilic thermal pool is surrounded by 400 newcanaandarienmag.com

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plants to purify the air and create a truly unique and calming experience. Trained estheticians address customized skincare needs using Biologique Recherche and Naturopathica products, and the range of options includes an East-Meets-West Facial, which starts with acupuncture and ends with a gold face mask. Those overwhelmed with the treatment menu can schedule a virtual meeting with a health coach before committing and receive personalized recommendations to optimize the visit.

And if nothing else, devote some time to the building’s relaxation room, a serene space with floor-to-ceiling windows allowing light to flow in and all the cares of your everyday life to melt away.

COURTESY OF THE MAYFLOWER INN AND SPA

YOUR DREAM SPA DAY (OR WEEKEND) IS ONLY A SHORT DRIVE AWAY by megan gagnon

Hey Greenwich, the Future of Luxury Is Here S H O P. S E L L . R E P E A T .

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go

ISLAND TREASURES GORGEOUS ISLANDS THAT WE’RE PRETTY SURE YOU’VE NEVER HEARD OF by kim-marie evans

T

here is no need to travel across the globe in search of wild and windswept islands. South Carolina’s fabled Sea Islands are secrets hiding in plain sight. When the New York Times wrote a story in 1983 about South Carolina’s “Secret Isles,” locals were so protective they (unsuccessfully) begged the author not to publish it. Though Hilton Head and Kiawah are regularly featured in glossy travel magazines, smaller islands like DAUFUSKIE, EDISTO and ST. PHILLIPS have managed to elude the spotlight—until now.

STEEPED IN HISTORY After the Civil War, the plantation owners who had been growing cotton on Daufuskie abandoned the land and “gave” it to the freed slaves. With little access to the mainland, the descendants of those slaves kept the Gullah traditions alive, making it a wonderful place to experience this rich culture.

A day trip to Daufuskie Island—a short boat ride just a mile from Hilton newcanaandarienmag.com

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Head—cuts through hundreds of years of history. Visitors find more than just museums. They find a preserved way of life—vibrant churches, century-old, bluewindowed oyster houses and deviled crabs for sale on front porches.

While there are three Hilton-Head style developments on Daufuskie Island (which counts John Mellencamp as a resident), much of the island is a historic district. Homes, churches, schools and

graveyards appear as they might have 100 years ago. Sallie Ann Robinson is a sixthgeneration Gullah who fights to preserve and share Daufuskie’s history for years. Her efforts caught the attention of Oprah Winfrey, or "Miss O" as Sallie Ann calls her, who featured Sallie Ann in a story in O, The Oprah Magazine.

If you can’t make it to Daufuskie in person, pick up her latest cookbook, Sallie Ann Robinson's Kitchen:

COURTESY OF SCPRT

South Carolina's Sea Islands offer the ultimate getaway for rest and relaxation (and, of course, the freshest seafood).

Food and Family Lore from the Lowcountry.

She offers a variety of dishes passed down through generations of Gullah families, from Down-Home Red Tada Sallet to Robinson's Grandmomma's Seafood Gumbo. “Nobody ever wrote anything down when they cooked.

Recipes were passed down simply from observing and then doing,” she says. daufuskieisland.com

TOP PHOTO BY CHRIS M. ROGERS PHOTOGRAPHY, INC.; BOTTOM TWO, HAIG POINT

CASTAWAY FOR A DAY Take the road less traveled, literally, to Edisto Island, where you won’t find a crowd, a hotel or even a traffic light. Around a hundred years ago, before there was a bridge to Edisto, people came anyway.

They drove over the marsh and the oyster beds from Charleston or Savannah at low tide to gain access. Back then, the island was used primarily as a retreat with homes hobbled together for weekend getaways. Day-trippers can stretch out on the mile and a half of pristine state park beach or hike its hauntingly majestic boneyard beach.

Boneyard beaches are sea forests that have been created from erosion, leaving an otherworldly landscape of tree skeletons rising from the sand. One of the most dramatic is at Botany Bay on Edisto.

Your Instagram will thank me. edistobeach.com

A BILLIONAIRE’S HIDEAWAY Until three years ago, St. Phillips Island was the exclusive beach retreat of Ted Turner’s family for forty years. The famed conservationist and billionaire bought this

(from top) Boneyard Beach on St. Phillips Island • Leisure time at Haig Point on Daufuskie Island • Calibogue Club restaurant on Daufuskie Island

little island, accessible only by boat near Hilton Head, in 1979. Outside of the five-bedroom home he built, he left a very light footprint on this sleepy island. In 2018 he sold the island to the state of South Carolina.

South Carolina now rents the house out for $12,000 for a five-night stay (it’s the only rental option). Don’t want any day-trippers ruining your beach naps? Up the rental to $20,000 for five nights; and as long as you book three months in advance, the state will cancel all incoming boat tours.

During your stay you’ll have access to bicycles, kayaks, golf carts to get you to the beach, a fishing pier and miles of hiking trails through the ancient dunes. A pool table, game room, flatscreen televisions, and a hammock on a large, screened porch are among the home’s amenities.

To book, or for more information, contact the St. Phillips Island Event Coordinator at mgonzalez@scprt.com or 803-904-6220.

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do by liz barron

HERE COMES THE SUN

EPIC SPRING SKIN-AND HAIR-CARE TIPS FROM THE PROS

W

ith sunnier days ahead, we asked two local beauty experts for innovative tips that really work. From reversing sun damage to regular root touchups, we have you covered as you spend more time outside.

While Dr. Haven has been offering several body procedures like Coolsculpting for noninvasive fat reduction and Thermage for skin tightening, she now has a new service called EmSculpt Neo, which claims to increase muscle strength by 25 percent and decrease fat by 30 percent after a series of four to six treatments spaced two to three days apart.

Each noninvasive session, which runs for about 30 minutes, is the equivalent of 20,000 abdominal crunches. You can also opt to go for the EmSculpt Neo on glutes, arms and calves. Pricing varies.

3. DAMAGE CONTROL

SKIN

Lynne Haven, MD, PC, dermatologist in Greenwich specializing in general and cosmetic dermatology

1. TRY TOPICAL ANTIOXIDANTS

“As far as reversing old damage, light chemical peels can be used to brighten dull skin with no downtime,” Dr. Haven explains.

“Lasers with very minimal downtime can be used to stimulate collagen and even out skin texture and tone.”

“Antioxidants can help prevent and reverse sun damage,” explains Dr. Haven. “And it can even help your sunscreen to work better.”

She recommends a new serum from SkinCeuticals called Silymarin CF, a highly potent serum with salicylic acid designed to improve acne and protect skin against environmental damage.

Davines, contains an SPF that helps protect from damaging properties.

2. COLOR THERAPY

2. LIGHTEN UP

HAIR

“During the summer months, some people might want to switch from a richer, heavier

Nicole Strachan, owner of The Vault salon in New Canaan

1. MASK UP In-salon treatments and at-home masks that hydrate are key to keeping up with when the sun is shining strong. Strachan’s favorite summer hair-care line, SU by newcanaandarienmag.com

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Root touchups every four to six weeks and haircuts at least every 10 weeks can keep your hair looking its best. Highlights can be spruced up anywhere from every six weeks to two or three times a year depending on the look and color you’re going for.

3. FROM THE INSIDE OUT Strachan encourages clients to check out Sugar Bear Hair gummies for hair growth. For hair loss, she grabs Davine’s Naturaltech Energizing treatment.

It helps with fragile scalps and can be used to aid in preventing some forms of alopecia.

TOP PHOTO BY DARIYAD - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; PORTRAIT OF NICOLE BY CHRISTINA SABURRO PHOTOGRAPHY

4. TONE UP

moisturizer to something lighter,” Dr. Haven says. She recommends trying a hyaluronic acid product such as SkinMedica’s HA5 Rejuvinating Hydrator.

home by m a l ia mc k i n non f r am e

above: Cofounders Stephanie Purzycki and Kaitlin Madden right: A living room interior designed by The Finish

A NEW INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM offers budget-transparent plans for any project, big or small

A

ll this time being cooped up at home and we’re all reevaluating our interior spaces and wanting a refresh of sorts. But often the biggest question is how do you tackle a house project without being overwhelmed and overcharged?

Enter a smart, think-out-of-the-box business aptly titled THE FINISH. Cofounded by STEPHANIE PURZYCKI and KAITLIN MADDEN, The Finish is an interior design service that lets you customize

projects based on a timeline and budget that fits your specific needs. The business partners, Purzycki, a designer who spent much of her career specializing in residential, commercial and hospitality design, and Madden, a seasoned interiors editor, skillfully combined their expertise to create a user-friendly system that allows you to deal with a range of plans. Choose bite-size projects (choosing throw pillows or hanging artwork) as well as complete home renovations (furniture newcanaandarienmag.com

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schemes and floorplans). They do it all.

While traditional design firms can have financial minimums or starting fees that quickly add up, and many do not take on smaller projects, The Finish charges a flat rate of $120 per hour, there are no spending minimums, and the parameters of your project are defined and priced out before the job begins.

“Our mission is to simply democratize interior design and make it more affordable and easy to use,” explains Purzycki, who cites

PORTRAIT COURTESY OF THE FINISH; INTERIOR BY JULIA D’AGOSTINO

finishing touch

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grand

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see our gallery of pictures at grandentrance.com MAY/JUNE 2021 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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buzz

Ready to take your home to the next level? Here’s a short list of things to have in mind before booking with The Finish: 1 Estimate your budget.

Keep in mind what you spend will go toward design time and the purchase of materials.

2 Identify the scope of work or your wish list of items.

3 Be able to articulate what you want, or at least what you don’t.

Have a stack of photos, tearsheets or other tangible ideas that reflect your needs.

DESIGNER CRASH COURSE: Styling a Coffee Table

Find The Finish on Instagram (@thefinish. co), or peruse their website thefinish.co to shop or book a consult.

this industry as one that is typically categorized as a luxury experience. “Our goal is to make updating interiors possible and practical for everyone,” she says.

The impetus for the company emerged when Purzycki left New York, submerged herself in suburban life and discovered an underutilized niche market. “I realized there are so many busy parents with young kids or people who are working full-time moving into new homes who need help but not a complete renovation.” With The Finish, you get access to interior designers for whatever you need, no matter the scale of work. “We can help with everything from picking out paint colors to figuring out the one corner of your living room that needs updating,” she adds.

Because The Finish’s M.O. is project-specific, the initial 30-minute consult, which will run you $60, is paramount. “We find the best designer for your needs based on experience level, style and aesthetic,” she says. Each of the firm’s 18 designers is personally vetted by Purzycki and all have a degree from a school that’s accredited by the NCIDQ (National Council of Interior Design Qualifications),

a governing body that creates gold-standard licensing exams for interior designers. After assessing your needs, scope of the project and number of hours to complete, your designer will draw up a proposal for your approval.

Another option offered by The Finish is the Curated Collections series (priced $350 to $450), recently launched on its website. Offering both bookshelf and coffee table vignettes, The Finish team has bundled together unique items targeted for specific spaces. “In one click, you have a designer-curated assortment of items that work perfectly together, and you don’t have to go to multiple stores or websites,” explains Purzycki, a great idea if you’re short on time or need a gift idea. This ready-to-order decor is just one example of how The Finish strives to make people’s lives easier. “You know exactly what you’re paying for and what it will look like, and a dose of certainty is something we could all use a little of these days,” she adds.

With a home base in Westport, The Finish offers in-person services throughout Fairfield County and Shoreline, Connecticut; New York City; Columbus, Ohio and Virginia. Virtual consults are also available.

newcanaandarienmag.com

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1 Break your table into quadrants. Each section should be composed of different items that vary in height. In other words, if you have books in one quadrant, add a tall vase in another.

2 Compose mini “scenes” or vignettes with items that are similar in color, theme or style. For example, group together a neutral leather tray with a decorative box made of natural grasscloth.

3 Stack two to three beautiful books together of similar size that are conversation starters.

4 Add meaningful decorative objects— a treasured collection of items or a favorite souvenir.

5 Make sure your table is functional for your lifestyle. If you have small children, don’t display expensive or breakable items. If your family uses your table to play games or do puzzles, be sure to leave one quadrant empty.

THE FINISH

above: A coffee table is a great place to display unexpected items with great stories.

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HollowTree_Mar21.indd 1

1/28/21 10:26 AM

home

LOOK UP

BLUE SKIES ARE HEADED OUR WAY by megan gagnon

1

2

&TRADITION Topan VP6 pendant light

by Verner Panton; $221. finnishdesign shop.com

KITCHENAID 4.1 cu.-ft. gas true convection range; $4,299.99. Best Buy, Norwalk; bestbuy.com

3

5

Come Here side table; $404. aplusrstore.com

Kingdom parade pillow; $247. Fig Linens and Home, Westport; figlinensandhome.com

light blue is such a feel-go od c ol or, so refreshing and calming. it reminds me of the o cean, clear skies, summer breezes and snowcapped mountaint ops. it’s very versatile and uplifting.

—lynn morgan, lynn morgan design

COLOURFORM

6

Two-seater sofa; $5,945.75.

Design Within Reach, Westport; dwr.com

newcanaandarienmag.com

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SERENA & LILY Driftaway bookshelf; $2,498. Westport; serenaandlily.com

ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS

4

WOUD × STEFFEN JUUL

RYAN STUDIO

TAKE IT OUTSIDE BRING SOME STYLE TO YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE

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3

2

more and more, ou td o or spaces are bec oming extensions of our interiors, w ith a fo cus on rel axing and entertaining. my approach is t o create a set ting that extends the interior aesthetics t o those areas. i select furniture and fabrics that tr ansition the spaces seamlessly.

ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS

4

—linda ruderman, linda ruderman interiors, inc.

6 5 1 CANE-LINE

2 CB2

3 SHORE RUGS

4 BERNHARDT

5 ARHAUS

6 RH

Drop outdoor kitchen module; $4,695. danishdesignstore .com

Cement basket planters; starting at $29.95. cb2.com

Evening path rug; starting at $175. shorerugs.com

Bali swivel chair; $2,756. Schwartz Design Showroom, Stamford; schwartz designshowroom .com

Rumi outdoor dining table; $2,399.

The SoNo Collection, Norwalk; arhaus .com

Balmain teak daybed; starting at $3,995.

Greenwich; rh.com

MAY/JUNE 2021 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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eat

b y mary k ate ho gan • phot o gr a phs b y jul i e b i dwe l l

GOOD VIBES

R

emember eating out on a Friday night and bumping into people you know, chatting with friends at the bar and staying to have a drink? That social element of restaurants we’ve been missing so much is a key ingredient that’s as important as the chef, menu, service and ambience. Let’s face it:

THE BACK END BRINGS FESTIVE FLAVOR TO NEW CANAAN’S

RESTAURANT SCENE

We’re ready to have fun. And The Back End (TBE), a new Mexican eatery, is primed to serve it.

TBE, the latest in the South End Group, is tucked behind its sister restaurant, Uncorked.

Nick Martschenko, chef and owner of the restaurants, had been eyeing the back alley newcanaandarienmag.com

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A new brunch item, just added to the menu—fried eggs with market veggies and pumpkin seed hummus.

Hamachi pastor ceviche with pineapple salsa and the Daredevil margarita , made with serrano pepper infused pueblo viejo.

space for some time, imagining how a shared outdoor patio and garden between the two would create a lively, unexpected dining destination. “The idea behind Uncorked and The Back End is to have a spot where you can come no matter the time of day or night and just feel relaxed, almost like you’re on

vacation,” says Martschenko. Now his vision is up and running and as the weather warms up, you can sit out there and order from either place. With multiple bars and a heated canopy for cooler days, you can picture lingering there over snacks and margaritas (there’s a whole menu of them as well as a mojito list).

MAY/JUNE 2021 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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The menu seems playful with a number of tacos that riff on favorite sandwiches: Think cheeseburger taco, French Dip and pastrami.

Add in some creative entrees and ceviche and this is not your ordinary Mexican.

When we checked out TBE’s menu we opted for takeout due to frigid temps. The

eat

food traveled surprisingly well, with a little reheating in the oven. There’s a real range of dishes, from veggie-centric and raw seafood to more indulgent entrees. The salad we tried was bright and fresh tasting, heaped with strips of mango and pieces of avocado and radish over baby Romaine; a good balance of flavors even before adding lime vinaigrette. Queso fans can opt for a heartier version with crumbled chorizo or the one we tried, which was very tasty with pieces of charred cauliflower giving

clockwise from left: Owner and chef Nick Martschenko in the kitchen; tuna nachos with avocado crema, perfect for sharing; a halibut ceviche with cucumber and chili. So refreshing.

it texture. The nachos too have lighter and more substantial options, a tuna nacho with avocado crema or TBE nachos, which are like everything-but-the-kitchen-sink nachos topped with steak, waffle fries, red peppers, black beans and jalapenos, a meal in itself.

The tortilla chips here are very thick, almost cracker like, making them a good conduit for the queso and nachos.

Fans of the South End and Uncorked burgers will love the cheeseburger tacos. These are newcanaandarienmag.com

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stuffed with juicy beef, cheese, shredded lettuce, tomato, a memory wrapped into a tortilla. I also loved the pastrami taco filled with pastramispiced brisket, sauerkraut and mustard seed, reminiscent of a classic deli sandwich. Likewise French Dip taco is pure nostalgia with braised short rib tucked into crispier flour tortillas and paired with au jus sauce. Chicken tacos have a citrusy flavor (pibil style) with pickled red onions, refried beans and a not-too-fiery habanero sauce. The only tacos I found a bit

above: A peek inside the kitchen, prepping for a busy lunch hour. right: The not-to-be-missed churros come with a delicious Mexican chocolate dip.

QUICK BITES Fan Favorites Regulars rave about the Hamachi Agua Chile, Tuna Nachos, Tuna Cactus Salad, Pastrami Taco, Cheeseburger taco and Churros and to drink the House Standard Margarita with Salt Air Foam.

Chef’s Go-Tos Chef/owner Nick Martschenko’s top choices are the Meano Pepino and Fire and Smoke cocktails as well as the chips with four types of salsa, shaved Brussels sprout salad with crispy potato taco, the pastrami taco, mole verde, chicken soup and Hamachi Agua Chile.

Let’s Do Brunch

Coming soon: The TBE team is working on an unexpected brunch menu that will feature cocktails to complement the food choices.

THE BACK END

17 Elm Street, New Canaan, 203-594-9130; thesouthendgroup.com

Cuisine

Mexican with a twist

Hours

Monday 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Sunday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

bland were the fish tacos; they’re topped with a tomatillo sauce and pieces of cactus, but didn’t sing as much as the others.

Martschenko says his customers enjoy experimenting with different food and the entrees reflect that. I’ve never had duck breast with flautas, but the dish was excellent, meat a bit pink in the center (as ordered) and paired with crispy blue corn tortillas stuffed with pureed squash; ribbons of multicolored carrots and crescents of squash add visual appeal. The MAY/JUNE 2021 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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substantial mole verde with crispy chicken is laden with veggies: cauliflower, broccoli, carrots, green cauliflower, blanketed in a green mole sauce.

We couldn’t resist trying the churros, which are about pretzel-rod size, very cinnamon-y and served on top of toasted marshmallows and with a chocolate dipping sauce—a heavenly end to the meal. Future plans call for outside TVs for sports games, pig roasts and live music.

No question we’ll be back to The Back End.

eat

A Fish Tale

HOW A PASSION FOR SUSHI TURNED INTO A HUGE OPPORTUNITY FOR YOUNG ENTREPRENUER MAX WEISS by mary k ate ho gan

• photo gr aphy by vener a alex androva

W Max Weiss

e all changed our dining habits last year, but some turned the challenges into opportunities.

For Max Weiss, a Brunswick and Cornell Hotel School alum, a craving for high-end sushi and the omakase experience (which basically means “I’ll leave it up to the chef ”) spawned a business: Ten Homakase brings the sushi chef to you. Pros from top New York Japanese eateries will come to your house, patio or office or almost any location to prepare and serve a special omakase meal.

We caught up with Max to talk toro and learn more.

newcanaandarienmag.com

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center: (from front) striped bass with konbu, soy marinaded bluefin tuna with pickled wasabi, kinmedai (golden eye snapper) with yuzu kosho top right: albacore topped with chili garlic oil

ANY EARLY EXPERIENCES THAT LED YOU TO LOVE SUSHI? Being a picky eater wasn’t an option for me. Both my parents are from Odessa, Ukraine, and they lived in Hong Kong in their early twenties, which exposed them to many Asian foods. As kids we were always trying new things. If we were traveling, we were figuring out where to eat next. Cooking was a big part of growing up. My Jewish force-feeding grandmothers and my parents were big influences. I fell in love with sushi at a young age and got excited by it in my teens. By high school, I started dragging my parents into the city to try new places and find the best sushi.

FIRST OMAKASE? Gari in New York

HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH THIS IDEA? It started as something I wanted for myself. With the pandemic, I was really missing my favorite food. I have a good network of chefs and restaurateurs in New York, particularly Japanese food. Late last spring, I reached out to see if anyone could do a meal for my family. At the time I couldn’t find anyone. Chefs were so busy working takeout, or some didn’t work due to concerns about Covid.

I decided to create an experience where we have chefs who trained at super high-end restaurants in New York come to the suburbs and people’s homes in the city and offer this experience.

WHO ARE YOUR CHEFS?

top left and right: kinmedai being seared • Chef Alex Matos above: Zuke Akami, Marinated Lean Bluefin Tuna bottom: uni (sea urchin) from Maine

Daniel Kim has more than seventeen years’ experience, recently as head chef at Sushi by Bou in Union Square. He also led its home catering initiative. Alex Matos trained under Chef Yoshihiro Fukomoto and has logged years as a sushi chef at Sushi Seki and Sushi by Bou.

HOW DID YOU GET THE WORD OUT? Word of mouth, Instagram, and we were featured in the New York Post.

If a host invites five friends and they all have a great experience, chances are some of them will want to do something similar.

WHAT DOES TEN HOMAKASE MEAN? Our standard menu is ten courses, and ten means “Heaven” in Japanese. Heaven Homakase is the translation. Our most extensive menu is called the Heavenly menu.

WHERE DO YOU GET YOUR FISH? It’s sourced through several NYC fish distributors; most get their fish directly from Japan. Yama Seafood is one we deal with a lot.

HOW DO YOU REPLICATE THE SUSHI-BAR EXPERIENCE? We get as close as possible to recreating a sushi bar at home. That could be a smaller meal on a kitchen counter or on a long table where we set up with guests on one side and the chef on the other, so you see the creativity and art of omakase.

What’s convenient is that we don’t need access to a kitchen. We bring the plates, glasses, knives, cutting boards, a cooler and a rice cooker. All we need is an outlet to plug in the cooker. Our guests don’t have to lift a finger.

They can enjoy their own drinks or we have a sake menu; we can bring a server and bartender. We customize menus, accommodating allergies and do kosher-style.

WHO ARE YOUR CUSTOMERS? It’s a range. Younger people are loving it. People in their twenties and thirties are booking for special occasions. And then we have older people with families who use us every few weeks. We’ve served on rooftops, at the beach, on boats— we can go anywhere. We can do an intimate two-person dinner or a larger office meal; we did one lunch in the financial district for three groups of twelve. As regulations change, we hope to service all kinds of events.

HOW DOES THIS DIFFER FROM RESTAURANT OMAKASE? Our chefs only serve one group a night, so there’s a level of care and detail that goes into each piece. They really care about each course and give all their energy to the guests.

DO YOU THINK THAT THE WAY WE APPROACH DINING WILL CHANGE PERMANENTLY? There’s definitely going to be a shift.

Chefs have been forced to adapt and become more entrepreneurial.

Our chefs are passionate about what they do, and they’re also our partners, very invested in the business. Whether it’s in-home chef experiences (like ours) or meal kits or chefs freezing food and sending it across the country. That’s going to continue to be big.

money matters

David Zipkin

A

fter more than a year of quarantine, many families here in Fairfield County and beyond are itching for a vacation. Remember those?

Rousing everybody before the sun comes up, wrangling the kids, the baggage, the nanny, the dog and your in-laws into the car(s) early enough to get a jump on everyone else who is trying to flee?

If you’re flying, you’ll need time to park and get to the

terminal. Don’t forget checking your bags and corralling the crew through TSA lines, past testy gatekeepers and onto germy jets.

Is that your tired kid screaming on the plane? Of course it is.

There is another way, one that’s become increasingly popular during Covid-19, reports David Zipkin, the founder and vicepresident of Tradewind Aviation, a private airline headquartered in Oxford, Connecticut.

Private aviation used to be the predilection of our millionaire neighbors. Not anymore.

According to aviation industry tracker WINGX, charter demand is at an all-time high. For short flights especially, family flying on a private jet is not only attractive, but also surprisingly comparably priced.

The cost of flying private depends on two things: the size of the plane and the amount of time spent in the air. Tradewind Aviation’s turbo-jets, for example, cost $4,295 per occupied hour.

That rate drops to $3,800 for frequent-flyers with a forty-hour

Even for Big Shots, Small Can Be Better The advantage of local airports

IS PRIVATE AVIATION RIGHT FOR YOU? card. The planes seat eight, or $475 per passenger on a full plane. Says Zipkin, “Sometimes two families get together and split the plane,” as do business travelers heading to the same destination, girlfriends on getaways, buddies attending bachelor parties, and the like.

There is no added cost for baggage, pets or parking, which can save hundreds of dollars per person. Passengers can bring their own food and drink without it being confiscated by security.

A flight from Westchester Airport to Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard, the Berkshires or the Hamptons, for example, takes an hour, versus five or six hours by car and ferry. “Time is money,” Zipkin says. “You can drive right up to the airplane. The ground handlers assist with your luggage and the valet parks the car.”

Zipkin and his brother Eric founded Tradewind Aviation in 2001, when the World Trade Center towers fell and the Zipkin brothers, who grew up in Bedford, NY, understood that

air travel was about to change drastically. New safety measures meant no more dashing through airport entrances and running to the gate. “We knew the Nantucket market very well. We bought one airplane and just built everything organically. There was a group of commuters who owned a home out there, but needed to get back home to Stamford or whatever from Monday through Friday.

They got together to share a charter. We have clients who leave the office at 5 p.m. and they’re in Nantucket by 6 p.m. and having dinner with their family.”

Now the Zipkins have twenty-four planes, with scheduled flights in addition to their charter service. Tradewind Aviation’s hub in San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a popular launching pad for luxury island-hopping in the Caribbean. “Pre-Covid, we’d fly between twenty and thirty flights per day to St. Bart’s. There’s a higher cost to doing it well and doing it luxuriously, but for the folks who can afford it,” Zipkin says, “they just love it.”

Just bringing the brood to Westchester Airport from many parts of Fairfield County might feel like a schlep, and that’s where private aviation becomes more attractive. Smaller planes can land in small airports; with enough notice, customers can reserve their own turbo-prop for Stratford, New Haven, Danbury, Oxford or other small airports, and Tradewind Aviation will have one waiting there at no extra cost.

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CONTRIBUTED

THE HIGH LIFE

BY CAROL LEONETTI DANNHAUSER

Please join us for an afternoon luncheon at Country Club of New Canaan Thursday, May 13 at 11:00am

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Preschool Programs - Summer Camp - Birthday Parties

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For more info: 203-655-7459 or dariennaturecenter.org MAY/JUNE 2021 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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by ju l e e k a pl a n phot o g r a ph y by a n dre a ca r s on

MODEL AND DESIGNER KATE CONNICK SETTLES BACK HOME IN NEW CANAAN

Hometown

GiRL newcanaandarienmag.com

50

locations: elm restaurant and earth garden, new canaan hair: george papadopoulos/ kiklo salon, new canaan makeup: kristen fiori manicure: to + from, darien fashion styling: lauren perez, laurine group fashion and jewelry: mitchells, westport

Kate Connick at one of her favorite restaurants in New Canaan, Elm.

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here: Brunello Cucinelli black linen sheer sleeve jacket; Mizuki black pearl and diamond ring. right: Brunello Cucinelli truffle linen jacket, Vince beige cotton crop tank, James Banks rose gold chunky chain and locks.

newcanaandarienmag.com

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I

t was March of 2020 when everything changed. For all of us, really. But for Kate Connick, the middle daughter of award-winning musician/ actor Harry Connick, Jr and former model Jill Goodacre Connick, it happened at a time when she was just getting started.

Connick was 22 and living in New York’s Financial District with her older sister, Georgia, when the Covid-19 pandemic took hold. She was busy taking classes at NYU, working on designing her own clothing brand and doing some modeling when her future seemingly stopped in its tracks.

“It was the weirdest, most surreal time,” Connick says while sorting through some of the looks she and her stylist friend Lauren Perez picked out for our shoot at Elm in New Canaan. “Just when I thought I had figured things out, everything changed so fast.”

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newcanaandarienmag.com

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Stopping at Earth Garden for spring blooms in a Khaite white cotton ruched top dress and Sylva & Cie diamond heart dangle earrings; Connick’s own sandals.

When it comes to fashion, Connick clearly knows what she’s doing. On our shoot in town on a beautiful spring day, Connick showed up with bright orange bags of some of the most gorgeous pieces—all right from the racks at Mitchells in Westport. We started with a darker look—jacket, cashmere bra and baggy shorts, paired with her own Saint Laurent heels. She knew right away she wanted a red lip for this look. Ready to go in minutes, Connick took her place at the bar at Elm. As soon as the camera began clicking we knew something special was happening. This youthful 23-year-old was immediately taking on the persona of quite the sophisticated woman.

“My mom definitely inspires me when it comes to style and fashion,” Connick says of her mother who has graced many runways herself, most famously for Victoria’s Secret.

Moving outside of the restaurant to continue our shoot, Connick effortlessly changed into more youthful fashion numbers­—a fab white dress to head into Earth Garden for some fresh blooms, and then into a cozy loungwear set, from her own Kate Connick Clothing collection. She was clearly the ideal model for this one, as a team member from Togs rushed out to say they wanted to sell the exact look in the shop.

Connick’s life took a much different path than planned when the pandemic hit and she and her sister decided to leave the city in favor of heading back home to New Canaan. Just when her parents were almost empty nesters (youngest sister Charlotte graduates from New Canaan High School this year), all three girls moved back home.

“I was a little worried at first about how things would go being back home, but we are the closest family I’ve ever met, so I knew it would be okay,” she explains. “Now that I’m here, I can’t even imagine a different situation.”

And, indeed it’s been great, she says. Connick and her family have been hanging out at home a lot, having picnics in Waveny Park and dining outside at local favorites like Elm and Rosie.

“This year has really been amazing. This whole thing has brought us all so much closer,” Connick says. “I live for our family dinners, coming up with movies for us to watch, it’s been so much fun.”

Connick calls her hometown a “fairy tale town, which is rare and tough to find anywhere else.” She says she loves the local restaurants, calling the chicken quesadilla at Chef Luis, the best ever, “I’ve never had a better one in my life,” she recalls. She says she can always go for a Press Burger visit or grab a black and white milkshake from the New Canaan Diner and frequently likes to check out what’s new at the Adirondack store.

Moving back to New Canaan ended her college studies, but Connick really hasn’t slowed down one bit. She used this time to refocus her business—officially branding her fashion collection as luxury loungewear, a concept almost every shopper got behind once the pandemic began.

“I’ve always wanted to do loungewear and was planning it before Covid, but the time was just obviously so right,” she explains.

When she first started Kate Connick Clothing a few years ago, it looked a bit different. A mix of casual and dressier pieces, Connick says she started working with details like metal grommets and ribbons (rings representing people and ribbons as shared connections and ideas). Now, Connick says she is more focused on sustainability and is working toward making her offerings fully environmentally friendly.

Currently, she is working with a super soft organic bamboo and cotton fabric, all dyes are also organic, and all of her tags and labels are made exclusively using organic cotton.

“Now that I’m here I can’t even imagine a different situation.”

—KATE CONNICK

newcanaandarienmag.com

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here and left: Kate Connick hoodie set in organic bamboo and cotton; Sylva & Cie chain necklace, pendant.

All pieces are produced in New York and Los Angeles, as Connick is a stickler for making certain everything is made in the USA. While her collection is mainly sold through her website, kateconnickclothing.com, Connick does sell in a select number of specialty stores like Gray Barns in Silvermine, Togs in New Canaan, Wequassett Resort in Cape Cod and even Kilkea Castle Resort in Ireland. It’s her hope, she says, to one day have her own store and grow her collection into new categories.

While the pandemic forced Connick to change her path, this wasn’t the first time she had to pivot. When she graduated from The King School in Stamford in 2016, Connick left for Furman University in South Carolina to play lacrosse. In one of her first moments on the field, she tore her ACL and wasn’t able to play for the remainder of the season. That was when she decided to move to Manhattan, began her studies at NYU and entered the world of fashion and modeling. Today, Connick is signed to State Models in New York and OTTO in Los Angeles. Wherever Connick’s career takes her next, she knows that she will always call New Canaan home.

“I’m really an entrepreneur at heart,” she says.

“But I love to do so many things and would love to do some acting eventually. My parents have been so supportive of everything I do. They push me but also encourage me to stay confident.

They’re my guides, my mentors. My mom inspires me so much and she is the reason I went into modeling. My dad… I can ask him anything and I go to him for literally everything.”

New Canaan parking enforcement officer Mike McCargo stopped during our shoot and jokingly hands off a ticket to Connick. “Mike is always ticketing me!” she laughed.

MAY/JUNE 2021 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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The

Good Life ©DASHA PETRENKO - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

Whether a newcomer or lifelong resident, we’re all on the hunt for new and creative ways to live life better here. We’ve got this!

THE GOOD LIFE TEAM v e ne ra ale xandrova, liz baron , g a rv i n bu rk e, t i m c a rr , m eg a n g ag n on , m a ry kat e h o gan , jil l j ohnson mann, j ule e kapl an, c ri st i n m a r a n di n o, d on na mof f ly, dia n e sem brot, tay l or stroi li

125 Ways

to live, play, relax and connect in Fairfield County

I

n 2019 we brought you our first Good Life Issue—a compilation of ideas for home improvement, family fun, shopping and special services throughout Fairfield County. Then came 2020, and, well, it’s obvious why the section took a hiatus. This year, we set out to provide you with sources and ideas to help you enjoy life in today’s world—we call it Good Life 2.0.

Here, we explore special and unique ways to take your living spaces to the next level, enjoy safe and relaxing getaways, stay active and creative and, of course, shop gorgeous fashion and jewelry finds (because we’re pretty sure everyone is ready for a style pick-me-up).

Our post-Covid world will certainly look a little different for a while, but we’re thrilled to celebrate what we all know to be true—pandemic or not—that our corner of the world is a pretty special place to call home. » AT HOME

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HOME DECOR

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GETAWAYS

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OUT & ABOUT

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FASHION

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JEWERLY

TheGoodLife ||| AT HOME

above: With exceptional views of Long Island Sound, this porch at a Riverside home designed by Charles Hilton Architects features New York gray flagstone flooring and a fireplace made of reclaimed local fieldstone that helps the homeowners extend their time outside. (Windows and doors are from Little Harbor Window Company.)

The Home Front Luxury home upgrades that are trending now

O

ver the past year people turned their attention to their homes more than ever, putting a fresh eye on what matters most. We all needed a secure haven and respite (and still do) while also longing for a place to reconnect with family and friends. It was harder to ignore things that need

fixing and updating when you were home 24/7, but it was also a time to dream big. So, we talked to experts about how people are investing in their surroundings and learned about some of the ultimate in home upgrades now that we can finally open our doors to friends again.

newcanaandarienmag.com

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WOODRUFF AND BROWN

by mary k ate ho gan

1

OUTSIDE IN

CHARLES HILTON ARCHITECTS

hiltonarchitects.com

Our desire to commune with nature has reached an all-time high. Studies have found that taking in natural light and beautiful scenery reduces stress and improves well-being, even boosting our immune systems.

A conservatory affords these perks year-round.

“People want to feel like they’re out in nature and enjoying their yard, even if it’s the middle of winter,” says Charles Hilton, AIA, who says that glazed rooms have been high on homeowners’ wish lists. He created a light-filled office—such a soothing spot to work—and sitting room, which looks out onto a boxwood-framed terrace with a center fountain and a pond and stream beyond.

To create a similar space, these are things to consider: You need top-quality windows and doors, ideally insulated with two or three layers of glass and a low-e (low-emission) coating that lets in sunlight but minimizes solar heat gain in the summer months.

It’s important for a glassed-in room to have its own HVAC zone, because it will lose and gain heat differently than other rooms in the home. Solar shades are a must for controlling sunlight and privacy. In this space, the shades are remote controlled, and the ceiling shades retract into a concealed soffit around the perimeter. Choose shades that you can see through, and then even when you want less sun, you can still soak up the view.

3

2

DESTRESS & DETOX SBP HOMES sbphomes.com It’s no secret that people enjoyed cocktail hour with more gusto over the past year. When you have no commute, there’s more time to mix a margarita or martini. This trend has staying power as people have been adding bars into their homes, says Doron Sabag of SBP Homes, in living rooms and finished basements.

However, in our health-conscious age, Doron says, there’s also an increase in home spas and infrared saunas. “As people drink more, they feel they need to detox,” he says. Infrared saunas promise many benefits. “Apparently they detox, increase metabolism, keep your skin healthy, make you happy.

Why not have one?” For one client he’s building a family spa room with a sauna, steam unit and soaking tub with outdoor access to a porch with a heated floor. “It’s the most glamorous spa we’ve ever done.”

above: Chilling out at home has fresh appeal when you have a room like this, outfitted with a well-equipped, built-in bar and pool table.

LUCKY DOGS GRAND ENTRANCE grandentrance.com Undeniably the big winners of the pandemic, our pooches have enjoyed so much extra love and attention. As things improve and you find yourself with slightly less time for three walks a day, how can you still keep Buddy happy?

A functional yet decorative fence and gate can keep him safe on your property while also adding overall security.

“People have been moving up from the city and buying houses; after a few weeks they decide they’re never going back.

They’re used to security, and that has predicated more fencing and gates,” says Don Gore of Grand Entrance Gates. “Pets are driving some of the work. It’s about keeping animals in and safe and predators out.” (See the NextDoor app for an album’s worth of bobcats, coyotes and more.)

At one Greenwich home, Grand Entrance created a special dog run that adds to the landscape, with its bronze railing on top, while also giving the pup room to roam. The company installs a wide range of classic and modern style fencing and gates as well as custom stone walls, outdoor fireplace and patios—all enhancing outdoor living. “Now that family can open the door, let the dog out and not worry about a thing.” » MAY/JUNE 2021 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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4 T AKE A DIP

SHORELINE POOLS

shorelinepools.com

Vanishing-edge pools continue to be popular, as do pools with built-in spas, like this one from Shoreline, overlooking Long Island Sound.

5 VANDERHORN ARCHITECTS FOUR SEASONS LIVING

vanderhornarchitects.com

After stretching the limits of the normal outdoor dining season, many people realized that they’d love to take more advantage of their outside spaces even in the coldest month. Outdoor living was already a huge focus before the pandemic, and now builders and architects are turning up the heat on patio and pergola designs.

“We did a terrific outdoor patio recently where we put in a glass cathedral roof across the whole terrace,” says Doug Vanderhorn of Vanderhorn Architects (think JHouse’s outside dining area).

There’s a fireplace, and electric heaters are built into that glass roof, so they can use the space yearround. This type of built-in heating—strips that aim the warm air down onto the area—keep things much toastier than the big heat lamps, and it’s unobtrusive in the warmer months.

“People are looking for a little more luxury at home, and we’re seeing a strong desire to create well-appointed outdoor living spaces and entertaining areas.”

left: This Georgianstyle pool house by Vanderhorn Architects reflects elegant indooroutdoor living with a kitchen, bar and sitting area inside and a patio with built-in firepit outside and nearby pergola and dining table.

—john defeo, shoreline p o ols newcanaandarienmag.com

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DOUG VANDERHORN: GUS CANTAVERO PHOTOGRAPHY

More homeowners have been taking the plunge into installing pools. “People are looking for a little more luxury at home, and we’re seeing a desire to create well-appointed outdoor living spaces and entertaining areas,” says John DeFeo, PLA, director of design services at Shoreline Pools.

The company creates custom pools, and the trend is toward making them useable yeararound with built-in spas and fire and heating features. Automatic pool covers have also become popular, not only because of the safety benefits but they also help maintain pool temps during fringe seasons and in the evening.

“High-end pool and outdoor living design uses topography, sun patterns, architecture and landscape as inspiration,” says John. His team works closely with clients to design something perfectly suited to how the family plans to enjoy the pool. They can layer in fun elements such as lounge spaces, sun shelves and water features with vanishing or wet edges, ensuring that everybody’s into the pool.

TheGoodLife ||| HOME FRONT

6

BREW JUST FOR YOU TOPBREWER topbrewernyc.com Missing your morning Starbucks runs? Instead you can sit in bed, tap an app and have a barista-style beverage made to your exact specifications in your own kitchen with TopBrewer. This is the ultimate high-end coffee technology, with origins in the office world, that’s made its way into people’s home kitchens. The sleek system is designed to take up minimal counter space—all you see is the faucet; the components are placed in the cabinet underneath with separate lines for coffee, chocolate and water.

Pick your beverage of choice, whether cappuccino, latte, mochaccino, flat white, hot chocolate, Café Americano, etc. Adjust the strength and froth from your phone or name your custom drink to get one exactly the way you like it every time. The machine also pours sparkling and flat water.

“There’s nothing else like it,” says Lisa Damore, vice president of sales, “It’s such a wow factor.”

7

THE HAPPIEST HAPPY HOUR

CARDELLO ARCHITECTS & SMALLBONE

cardelloarchitects.com; smallbone.co.uk

The bar has truly been raised on at-home happy hour. Cocktail culture has become even more of a thing, and now you’ll find mini fridges in closets, whole closets turned into bars and exceptional wine rooms. In a new home in Greenwich, Robert Cardello of Cardello Architects designed a wine cellar and entertaining space for a Bordeaux buff. The wine room has a big farm table in the center and a working fireplace. Around the perimeter a glass wall separates the refrigerated wine from the entertaining space.

“He goes down there to hang out with friends, drink and relax. It’s such a comfortable place to spend time,” says Robert of his client. There’s just enough space to walk in and access the bottles, which are on display all around the room and kept at the perfect temperature behind the glass. And the décor: “It’s like you stepped into an old Italian winery.”

Smallbone also creates one-of-a-kind wine rooms, such as this wine and cigar lounge (above) in a New York City home.

It’s outfitted with ebonized black walnut furniture and museum-glass display cabinets with picture-frame interior-lit shelving. The essential full-service bar has a hidden icemaker, dishwasher, cold drawers and a hammered pewter bar sink, all built into an antiqued brown granite countertop. A wall expertly clad in stone supports a hidden mirror flat-screen TV, and the clients commissioned a custom Veuve Clicquot cigar humidor. A quiet night in has never looked this good. » MAY/JUNE 2021 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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TheGoodLife ||| HOME FRONT

This chic office shed with built-ins from California Closets serves as a work “oasis” for lifestyle blogger Erin Hiemstra. She also uses the 10-by-10 backyard retreat as a place to do yoga.

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GAME ON! FULL SWING GOLF fullswinggolf.com Peleton and The Mirror may have been the most talked-about home-fitness obsessions, but for some, a coveted way to stay active at home is to install a golf simulator. To have the right set-up for a simulator, you need some space: ten-foot ceilings to be precise. One system that architects recommend is called Full Swing, a simulator that’s installed in the homes of PGA tour champions including Tiger Woods. It uses infrared lightwave technology combined with high-speed cameras for the most realistic ball tracking, and you can even opt for a surface called Virtual Green that lets you putt. But you’ll need plenty of green’s fees saved to purchase one, as they start at $40,000. newcanaandarienmag.com

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CALIFORNIA CLOSETS

californiaclosets.com

The shift to work-at-home life made organizing and setting up an office space a high priority for many of us. “Everyone evolved to saying the kitchen table is not going to cut it,” says Jill LaRue, SVP, chief merchandising officer at California Closets, who adds that the out-of-necessity home office became the company’s biggest growth area last year.

“When you have disorganized spaces, it’s hard to start and end your day, particularly when your day is twenty-four hours at home.” Architects also observed the workspace trend. “Home offices are a big deal—with people spending more money on better sound systems, power operated shades, large televisions where they may be doing Zoom calls,” says Doug Vanderhorn of Vanderhorn Architects.

Some people quickly turned spare rooms into offices, and California Closets has a system to equip those spaces with wall beds, so they can still double as a guest room when needed. For any home office, ergonomic design is key; and Jill says their designers are trained to set up the best positioning for your desk chair, drawer space and computer monitor.

She notes that some home desks were created more for light use, like bill paying, not for full days at work, so people may need to upgrade. Those fortunate to have outbuildings on their property have been transforming them into creative work and craft spaces and She-Shed-style offices (see photo). It’s a real luxury to be able to head to an on-site studio and tell the rest of the family, “Ok, I’m off to my own space now.”

CALIFORNIA CLOSETS: AUBRIE PICK

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OFFICE SPACE (ELEVATED)

above: In this meditation room, the artisan Smallbone open wall array was finished in ultra-fine flat soft-white lacquer and centered around the ancient sun sign.

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SERENITY NOW SMALLBONE smallbone.co.uk Stress relief and a sense of calm are needed more than ever, and people are turning to meditation. Still, it’s hard to carve out space and time to make the practice a habit. That’s where a meditation zone comes in. Smallbone was recently hired to “master the art of Zen” and design a meditation and reading room for a client. “A holistic approach was essential to bring together the purest of elements, skillfully blended into a serene palette,” says David Trainer, senior designer at Smallbone. The open wall was centered around the ancient sun sign, bringing energy to the center of the space; Feng Shui and numerology were applied to the wallscape to assure a flow of Chi energy. There’s a chaise lounge for relaxing and reading and a desk for writing and journaling. Softly diffused, concealed lighting and healing crystals from the client’s collection combine for seriously good vibes.

UPGRADE MAISON HAVEN 11 STYLE

maisonhaven.com

MASON HAVEN: JULIA D’AGOSTINO

They say a good day starts with a great outfit. No wonder we were in the dumps for so long when, on top of everything else, sweatpants became our go-to. It’s high time to get dressed again and to overhaul our closets and wardrobes. If that task seems too daunting, call on Maison Haven, a team that will edit your clothes, refresh your rooms, clean out clutter and devise organizing systems so attractive that you’ll be motivated to keep them that way. While the firm was recently focused on kitchens and pantries (all those Costco panic purchases), they’re seeing a shift back to closets.

“Your closet should be an inspiring place to start every day.

There’s no reason to wear something that doesn’t make you feel like a million bucks,” says Corrie Jackson, co-founder of Maison Haven. “You don’t want a closet full of one-hit wonders.”

Whether they’re working on one closet or the whole house (they do kids rooms, family rooms and offices, too), they will discuss your needs, take photos and measurements, and create a plan that includes mood boards for products that work with your design and color palette.

The best part: You don’t have to lift a finger. The team has occasionally had vacation-bound clients hand them the keys and let them work their magic. Prefer a more DIY approach? Try Haven in a Box, the kit gives you everything you need: a glossy bible of tips, tricks and step-by-step info; curated products (think chic acrylic hanging dividers); tutorials on creating a shoe well, how to file, fold and other organizing essentials. » MAY/JUNE 2021 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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TheGoodLife ||| HOME DECOR

House Dressing We love where we live, but decorating our homes can often feel like a challenge. These stores are here to help by megan gagnon

above: Serena and Lily’s inviting spaces include a mix of classic furniture lines with relaxed finishes and natural texture

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LOCATION, LOCATION SERENA & LILY serenaandlily.com

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ost customers who visit Serena & Lily’s Westport flagship admit to wanting to move in. We don’t blame them, having experienced the magic that comes from seeing the coastal California line merchandised in an actual home. The historic KemperGunn house, an 1889-built Queen Anne Victorian, provides the ideal setting for the brand’s variety of offerings, with complete rooms styled from rugs on the floor to lighting on the ceiling. Utilize the work room—where you can browse a wall of textile swatches—with your own designer or an advisor on staff. Or get inspired by any number of spaces, like the third-floor setup, which includes a dreamy kids’ installation.

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RECIPE FOR STYLE

BROWNE & CO.

dianebrowne.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: BEEHIVE BY BROOKE ALLISON; THE LINEN SHOP BY KYLE NORTON; ELEISH VAN BREEMS HOME BY NEIL LANDINO; ALL OTHER IMAGES COURTESY OF STORES

There’s always something that smells good at Darien’s Browne & Co. Is it the Lafco candles, or perhaps the freshly baked cookies that line the bakery case at the back of the store?

Chances are, it’s probably both, and owner and caterer Diane Browne was wise to combine a retail space with her popular café. Even if you only came to grab lunch, you have to make it past the tables and shelves filled with decor finds and women’s accessories without something catching your eye (no easy feat).

If you really want to do it right, order ahead for your next holiday meal or dinner party and then pick out new platters, bowls and napkins to serve them with.

IT PERSONAL 13 MAKE THE LINEN SHOP

thelinenshopct.com

A downtown mainstay on Elm Street in New Canaan, The Linen Shop is like the luxury boutique version of Bed, Bath & Beyond. And by beyond, we’re talking everything from monogrammed tissue-box covers to tabletop treasures for every entertaining opportunity. When it comes to bed-making, bathroom-stocking and table-setting, the options are endless, with a variety of colors and prints to choose from.

Let the knowledgeable staff help you coordinate your finds or create the ultimate wedding registry.

SWEDE HOME 16 HOME ELEISH VAN BREEMS HOME

evbantiques.com

Head to the Westport train station, not to catch a ride to New York, but to escape into the Scandinavian world that Rhonda Eleish and Edie Van Breems have created just steps from the tracks. Eleish Van Breems Home is the culmination of a decadeslong friendship and design business built around Swedish antiques. The store includes their mid-century discoveries alongside unique pieces like Rolf painted candlesticks, whimsical items for kids and chic pet accessories from Max Bone.

Everything in their edit reflects a refreshing aesthetic: a mix of furniture with history and modern touches from skilled artisans.

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BUZZWORTHY

BEEHIVE

thebeehivefairfield.com

The danger with a shop like the Beehive is that you go in with the intention of buying a gift for someone else and end up leaving with five things for yourself. You spot the doormat you didn’t know you needed, eye some pillows your couch has been missing, and grab the candle that promises to make your house smell as good as the store—all before you get to the table stacked with serveware that you came in to see. Create your own vignette at home with furniture and accessories purchased on site, or hire owners Sandra Halstead and Lesley Collins to bring their design expertise to your home project or renovation, large or small.

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TheGoodLife ||| HOME DECOR

BLEND 18 HOUSE THE DRAWING ROOM

thedrawingroomhome.com

There’s a surprise around every corner of The Drawing Room in Cos Cob. Start in the retail space, where styled books and decor sit on antique furniture and lead to other home finds, jewelry and gifts (don’t forget to grab a cheeky card).

Tucked behind the store, you can find inspiration in the art gallery, featuring pieces from local, national and international artists. Beyond the exhibition space, you’ll get a peek into the cafe, where guests nibble on tea sandwiches and freshly baked treats. All three buildings reflect the passions of husband and wife team Kenleigh and Michael Larock. Let them help with decorating needs, provide art consultation services or cater your next party.

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EXTRA, EXTRA

THE TAILORED HOME

thetailoredhomect.com

The world of Jhon Ortiz and partner Scott Falciglia is a maximalist’s dream come true. With their business, The Tailored Home, the two visionaries execute projects marked by their use of saturated color, statement lighting and bold printed upholstery. In their showrooms, furniture fantasies become reality, custom pieces are imagined, and vintage finds are revived and given a modern makeover. As for finishing touches, look to their window treatments or an array of styling accessories to add yet another layer of personality. See them for yourself in Greenwich, or stop by their brand-new Westport location.

ESCAPE 20 GREAT BUNGALOW

Not all of us can travel the world, scouring antiques shops and flea markets for one-of-a-kind treasures. But we’re happy to have Wende Cohen do the digging, filling a shipping container with European finds season after season, and then sharing her loot at her Westport store. Give yourself some time if you plan on making a stop at Bungalow; the gorgeous space deserves your undivided attention, and you’ll want to take in every styled corner. But be warned: while the selection of furniture and home accessories is fabulous, there is an equally tempting rotation of jewelry that is hard to resist.

HUNTING 19 GO THE COLLECTIVE

thecollectivect.com

Sometimes, something old is better than something new. And as local antiques lovers know, Stamford’s South End is a gold mine for pieces with history. At The Collective, designer Pamela Frisoli (you know her from her Cos Cob store, Trovare Home) teamed up with antiquarians Robert and Karen DeFalco to create a unique shopping experience. Against a backdrop of the bright white 13,000-square-foot space, dealers style their curated booths into vignettes that show off their furniture and vintage accessories, like pairs of mid-century chairs and 19-century oil paintings. Chances are you’ll run into interior designers sourcing for their own projects, a sign that you’re in the right spot.

newcanaandarienmag.com

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THE COLLECTIVE BY TOM MCGOVERN; BUNGALOW BY TIM LENZ; ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF STORES

bungalowdecor.com

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MIX MASTER HABITAT GREENWICH habitatgreenwich.com

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im Caravella is all about layering and texture. It’s the signature style that she’s honed over a long interior-design career, and visitors get a glimpse of her work every time they pop into her Cos Cob store, habitatgreenwich. There are sprinkles of color throughout the store, but most of the goods show off a master class in mixing neutrals; the metallic finish of an antique French mirror over a woven basket of hand-looped alpaca pillows, an oversized rattan pendant illuminating rustic thrown pottery and original artwork. Need a housewarming gift? Consider adding an orchid to her selection of vintage stone pots or opt for a purchase that gives back to local nonprofits, a priority for the community-minded Caravella. »

There is always unique artwork on display at Habitat Greenwich

MAY/JUNE 2021 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN MAY 2021 GREENWICH

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TheGoodLife ||| GETAWAYS

Escape Artists From your own backyard to a Wyoming ranch, electric bikes to private jets—where and how to escape this summer by jill johnson mann

above: Hinckley Yachts’ Talaria 43 sets the scene for a summer of great memories as a family. Retractable windows and a half door provide open space between cockpit and galley.

F

or months we had to put our travel plans on hold. Even now, as we work our way through vaccine lines, we remain hesitant about heading off to destinations with pre-pandemic reckless abandon. We’re sticking closer to home or looking for off-thebeaten path getaways. We sought out extraordinary “escapes” that make the most of living well here. We found ways to get out on the water, soar into the blue skies or travel by engine power or actual horse power for when we just need to get away from it all. Save the travel agent traps—we’re talking easy, fun and refreshing friends and family time.

BITTERROOT RANCH

bitterrootranch.com

Astride sturdy steeds in the unspoiled mountainous wilderness of Wyoming, riders enjoy several advantages during a pandemic: They are out in the fresh air and naturally maintain six feet between fellow equestrians. For these reasons (and maybe because it’s one place everyone should visit in this lifetime) Bitterroot Ranch remained open in 2020. They expect a full season again this year, from May 23 to October 1, including two yoga and riding retreats (July 11–18 and August 23–30).

Bitterroot is neither a hokey dude ranch nor an over-the-top luxe one where the focus is more on thread count than a good gallop. It is the real deal, catering to beginner and expert riders alike and even offering English saddles and a cross-country course for those who prefer jumping to roping. You will not find yourself plodding along on a lazy nag here. Bitterroot boasts fit, eager and astoundingly sure-footed horses, along with breathtaking views in every direction on its 1,300 acres and beyond to the Shoshone National Forest and a 52,000-acre game and fish wildlife refuge. This escape is quite literally in the middle of nowhere. A private airport is forty minutes away; Jackson is two hours. A one-week stay is $2,750 per person ($1,750 non-rider/fly fisherman); half a week runs $1,750 ($1,100 non-rider). The yoga retreat is $3,000/week.

Cuisine—healthy and delicious—is included.

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HINCKLEY, GARY JOHN NORMAN; BITTERROOT, JEFF VANUGA

22

RIDE OF A LIFETIME

24-26 BOAT ESCAPES HINCKLEY YACHTS

hinckleyyachts.com/ location/stamford-ct

LAND ROVER BY NICK DIMBLEBY; PERFORMANCE FLIGHT ©JOEL BARHAMAND; SCHOONER BY MIKE BAGLEY; HINCKLEY, GARY JOHN NORMAN; CAREFREE BOAT, CONTRIBUTED

23

NOT YOUR FATHER’S SUV

LAND ROVER DEFENDER

landroverdarien.com

In keeping with the survivalist theme of the era we live in, you don’t want to be driving a wimpy car.

The Land Rover Defender won Motortrend’s 2021 SUV of the Year. This rugged vehicle is ready for anything—off road or on. “The Defender is refined.

It’s quite luxurious but, unlike many SUVs, it’s a proper off-roader and incredibly capable on the road,” says Nick Hilton at Land Rover Darien. “It’s quite square. People like boxy designs; it reminds them of vehicles of old, but it doesn’t drive like one.”

Add an Adventure Pack (because who doesn’t need an adventure about now?) for accessories like a side-mounted gear carrier to store dirty or wet items, portable rinse system to wash the mud off your bike or your boots, and an integrated air compressor to inflate the tires or an airbed. Land Rover’s Defender 90 X-Dynamic is available now, and the V8 model will arrive this summer. Prices range from about $50,000 to $100,000.

tailored to perfection With the glistening Long Island Sound nearby, a private boat escape is a no-brainer for summer. To buy the yacht of your dreams, visit Hinckley Yachts in Stamford. All Hinckley boats are custom-built in Maine, where the company builds only thirty boats per year.

They run from thirty-two to fifty-five feet, with forty-three feet being the most popular (pictured below). The Stamford location also offers service, a marina and summer/winter storage.

CAREFREE BOAT CLUB

carefreeboats.com join the club Prefer all the joys of boating without the responsibility of ownership? Join Carefree Boat Club and your membership buys you access to top-of-the-line boats across the U.S. and Canada, as well as training by licensed captains. A boat with a cabin is available for overnight trips.

Refueling, cleaning and covering the boat are hassles members kiss goodbye. It has two Fairfield County locations: Stamford’s Harbor Point and in Westport (below, Sea Witch). See the available fleet at either local website.

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SOUNDWATERS

soundwaters.org

majesty on the high seas For an unforgettable outing, charter the SoundWaters, an eightyfoot schooner modeled after a Chesapeake Bay sharpie. Enjoy a Long Island Sound sunset, while giant sails guide you away from to-do lists. It carries forty passengers, and charter reservations are open through September. The decks accommodate wheelchairs. Children must be five years or older and accompanied by an adult. A twohour private sail is $2,000. Longer voyages are available.

Email schooner@ soundwaters.org or call 203-406-3319.

PILOT PROGRAM

PERFORMANCE FLIGHT

performanceflight.com

If you’re looking to make great escapes a way of life, learn to fly your own plane. Performance Flight, the sister company to Custom Jet Charters (see #31), is a world-renowned flight school, based at Westchester Airport. “I started with the flight school,” says owner and Westporter Lewis Liebert, who manages a fleet of forty-three aircraft. “That’s what I’m passionate about.” The school’s Next Generation Training Platform and new Cirrus planes are state of the art, and Liebert hires only “the most talented instructors.” In sixty to seventy hours (forty is the legal minimum) and for $60,000, a pilot’s license can be yours. Looking for ways to help your flighty teen escape? Youth train at Performance Flight as well. They can fly solo at sixteen and acquire a license at age seventeen. »

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TheGoodLife ||| GETAWAYS

30

NEW ENGLAND CHARM

FOUR COLUMNS

fourcolumnsvt.com

28-29 TWO-WHEELIN’ DANNY’S CYCLES

dannyscycles.com

Bikes were in huge demand last year, so start your bike escape plan by getting your name on the waitlist for the model you want! Electric or “e-bikes” are all the rage. Craig at Danny’s Cycles in North Stamford (there’s also a location in Darien) explains how they work: “An e-bike takes your speed and doubles it or quadruples it. If you generate 100 watts, it pushes out 200 watts. You can choose to ride with it completely off or on economy, sport or turbo mode.”

The e-bike boost enables you to cover more distance in a shorter time frame, see more beautiful Connecticut scenery, and break as much of a sweat as you want. It’s perfect if you have a spouse who likes to cruise while you are going for the wicked burn. E-road bikes run $5,000 and up; the Specialized’s Turbo Creo is a favorite. Electric mountain bikes are also a blast; check out the Turbo Levo ($6,500 and up).

SOUND CYCLISTS

soundcyclists.com

Where to ride? Craig at Danny’s Cycles recommends the fifty-mile ride from North Stamford to Titicus Reservoir in North Salem, New York, or “a good 100 miles from Kent up to Salisbury on old-school farming roads.” He also suggests joining Sound Cyclists Bicycle Club. For a mere $35 annual family membership, you and your peeps can enjoy a variety of guided rides, for all levels, on road and off.

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FLIGHTS OF FANCY

CUSTOM JET CHARTERS

customjetcharters.com

“I don’t normally do this, but you understand, I don’t want to fly with everyone!” Westport resident and Custom Jet Charters’ owner Lewis Liebert heard this a lot in the past year. Private aviation is no longer only about comfort and efficiency, but also steering clear of airport and airplane germs. But like going from coach to first class, it’s tough to turn back once you’ve experienced the high life. “I flew commercially to Sonoma with a group of friends. It took us sixteen hours door-to-door,” says Liebert.

“Privately it would have been seven.” Whisking your sweetheart away to the Point at Saranac Lake in an hour, rather than spending five times that in a car, is tempting—and romantic. “I had one client who was having trouble getting a girl to go on a date with him. He told her, ‘C’mon, let’s go get lobster for dinner.’ She replied, ‘I only like fresh lobster.’ So he flew her up to Maine!”

With fewer commercial flights, chartered flights are attractive for remote, fabulous locales, such as Blackberry Farm, Tennessee; the hills of North Carolina; Nantucket; Jackson Hole or Bitterroot Ranch in Wyoming. A trip to Nantucket is $3,500 to $4,000 each way, for six to eight passengers. Throw a copy of Emily Liebert’s novel Pretty Revenge in your beach bag (she happens to be Lewis’s wife). newcanaandarienmag.com

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32

A SOUND IDEA

CARITAS ISLAND

thejuliehillgroup.com

If you are looking to make escaping permanent, your own private island in Wallock’s Point, Stamford, should do the trick. The four-acre Caritas Island, also known as Greenway Island, was once owned by J.P. Morgan’s great-grandson and boasts a 17,000-square-foot Englishstyle manor, several guest houses, private beaches, a tennis court and a fifty-five-foot lap pool.

The estate can be reached from the mainland via a gated, private bridge, which is a short drive from Shippan. Should arriving by car to your island feel a bit pedestrian, there is always the helipad or the 200-foot-deep dock for your yacht. This private island is yours for $14.5 million.

BIKES ©SASINT - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; PHOTO FRAME ©THOMAS PAJOT - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; FOUR COLUMNS BEDROOM ©2015 WOODWARD PHOTOGRAPHY

Four Columns, situated in gorgeous Newfane, Vermont, is an easy 2.5-hour drive from Fairfield County. The fifteen-room historic inn was restored

by Delamar owner and Greenwich resident Charles Mallory. Consulting with Delamar’s Executive Chef Frederic Kieffer, Mallory created a winning combination—an authentic New England inn and locally sourced cuisine at its Artisan Restaurant, Tavern and Garden. Dining continued outdoors last summer, overlooking the inn’s beautiful gardens, and the restaurant will open again before Memorial Day weekend. The 138-acre property boasts its own 2.5-mile hiking trail, an outdoor pool, gym, spa and a separate four-bedroom house. It is feasible to rent out the entire inn as well as the house, and Four Columns can accommodate a 150-person tented wedding. Whether planning a couple’s getaway or a larger gathering, guests should check its website for updates on Vermont’s Covid restrictions. Rooms range from $185 to $345. The house is $550 (midweek) to $600 (weekends) and sleeps nine.

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GRAYBARNS BY MORGAN IONE YEAGER; WINVIAN FARM FOREST BEDROOM BY ©KINDRA CLINEFF; VELUXITY EXOTIC CAR RENTAL BY JOHN HINCHEY

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GOLD—OR SILVER—MINE

THE INN AT GRAYBARNS

graybarns.com

Skip the traveling altogether and escape down the road to a hidden gem right here on the Silvermine River. The Inn at GrayBarns boasts six gorgeous king suites with living rooms and luxurious full baths, designed to tie in the natural environment with reclaimed wood and wide-board oak floors. The antique feel of the post-and-beam inn is complemented by all the contemporary comforts for a restorative getaway. Each suite is different—opt for a balcony or for a lower-level suite leading out to a pond. Even better, rent the whole inn for a friend or family reunion after this isolating year. A complimentary breakfast is delivered to your door (replacing the usual buffet) and the Tavern at GrayBarns offers indoor and outdoor seating (following reduced capacity guidelines). The Inn at GrayBarns, owned by the Glazer family of Norwalk, is situated a mile from Silvermine Arts Center, 3.5 miles to The Glass House (tours of architect Philip Johnson’s jewel are ongoing) and 5 miles from New Canaan’s 300-acre Waveny Park. Rooms run $750 (midweek) to $900 (weekend). Escape for even one night—no minimum stay is required.

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QUICK ESCAPE

VELUXITY EXOTIC CAR RENTAL

veluxityexoticcarrental.com

If you don’t want to get on a plane but still want to feel like you’re flying, Veluxity Exotic Car Rental will deliver your dream car right to your door. “Our Lamborghini Huracan Spyder is fully optioned with carbon fiber racing seats. It’s akin to a slingshot on acceleration and a blast to drive on Connecticut backroads,” says Veluxity owner Ron Petruska. Want something roomier? How about Lamborghini’s Urus SUV, which combines the comfort of a luxury SUV with the power of a twin turbo V8 supercar. “The Urus is actually faster to sixty than our Ferrari,” says Petruska.

Looking to cruise Connecticut’s coastal towns? The fourseater Rolls Royce Dawn convertible will clear your head of any pent-up pandemic anxiety. An exotic car also makes a memorable gift. “A client surprised her husband with our Ferrari 488 GTB. They led an elaborate scavenger hunt that led him, blindfolded, to our warehouse in Mount Kisco. She had a Happy Birthday banner for him, and he was in tears when he realized the Ferrari was his for the day! They then unleashed it on the winding roads of Bear Mountain.” Prices range from $1,600 to $1,800 per day.

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RELAIS & CHATEAUX RETREAT

WINVIAN FARM

winvian.com

WESTPORT ESCAPE

If you want to feel like you’ve stepped out of reality and into a magical land, Winvian Farm (at right, below) in Litchfield County is the escape for you. With eighteen private cottages spread across 113 acres, social distancing is a given. “Seedto-fork” Five-Diamond fine dining (indoors, outdoors or in-cottage) and a luxury spa assure you will feel pampered, while at the same time enjoying the remote tranquility of your unique rustic-chic lodgings. With each whimsical cottage designed by different renowned architects, we can promise you’ve never been anywhere like this. “Beaver House,” “Log Cabin” and “Treehouse” are a few of the most secluded cottages (but there is zero chance of being disturbed by your neighbors in any of them).

“With travelers seeking closer-to-home getaways, Winvian Farm is an ideal relaxing retreat,” says Maggie Smith, Winvian proprietor and longtime Greenwich resident.

“Our location is roughly an hour from most Fairfield County towns. Our pool is an oasis during warmer months, and each accommodation comes with two mountain bikes, so guests can explore the beauty of the Litchfield Hills and take in the fresh country air.” Winvian has a dedicated Covid-19 program in place called “Pure Winvian” (details are on the website). Rates range from $799 to $1,399/night.

There is a two-night minimum on weekends. If you rent the whole place, you can bring along fifty lucky friends.

SEAGRAM’S CREEK

mghomes.com

This thirteen-acre estate (at right, top) comes equipped with a helicopter landing zone on the lawn, but once ensconced here, you may never want to leave. Architect Michael Greenberg began with a nineteenth-century chestnut barn, transported from Nichol’s Farm in Weston, and created a post-andbeam design that hearkens back to simpler times while simultaneously feeling exquisitely modern.

A dining room rich in reclaimed chestnut and oak features a fireplace of native stone (one of six in the home) that begs diners to relish leisurely meals in front of its crackling warmth. Covered porches invite songbird and butterfly watching. The pool and tennis court rival a resort, so why go to one?

A vegetable garden takes residents a step closer to self- sufficiency. Pair it with a wine cellar and several major food groups are covered.

A gym awaits should the weather not be agreeable for a trail walk to the gentle Aspetuck River. A separate 10,000-square-foot office means commuting is a thing of the past. »

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TheGoodLife ||| OUT & ABOUT

above: With walking trails and large open fields, a dog park and historic mansion, there’s always something new to see in New Canaan’s Waveny Park.

Playgrounds For All Ages

Effortless ways to keep you happy and entertained all summer long

K

eeping our minds, bodies and souls healthy is what it’s all about these days. During the past year we’ve connected with nature and found some of the best local services to keep us safe and happy. Now, we definitely need some new places to visit. From sailing lessons to curbside pickup at our

favorite markets, it’s all right here in our fab little towns. There’s always something new to do, which is why it’s so easy to live, work and play in Fairfield County. We’re happy to share some of our favorite local outings so that we can continue to stay happy, healthy and connected.

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MELANI LUST

by liz barron

37-38 TAKE A HIKE

THE NEW CANAAN LAND TRUST

newcanaanlandtrust.org

MIANUS RIVER PARK

friendsofmianusriverpark.org Chances are your step counts rise with the warmer weather. But you may be tired of the same routes and scenery from all those quarantine strolls. So you’ll definitely want to explore some new territory. Two of our favorite spots are just a short car ride away.

The New Canaan Land Trust spans 392 acres and has over six miles of trails to hike. For a walk in the woods, Waveny and Irwin parks, also in New Canaan, have shady and sunny paths to explore and lots of open grassy areas for a family picnic.

Mianus River Park is also a picturesque nature reserve situated on the Greenwich/Stamford border with expansive trails. And the best part is that these locations welcome leashed pups.

39-42 PETS PLEASE

WINSLOW GRASS ISLAND ROWAYTON DOG PARK SPENCER’S RUN Speaking of furry friends, there are lots of safe places for your dog to get exercise and socialize with their counterparts in the fourlegged community. Winslow dog park on Compo Road in Westport boasts the town’s largest off-leash area, and Grass Island dog park in Greenwich has two separate fenced-in areas for small and larger dogs, running water and bowls and even a baby pool for a rinse after playtime. The Rowayton dog park, on Highland Avenue will re-open on June 5. Spencer’s Run in New Canaan, located inside Waveny Park, is large and fencedin (one-and-a-half acres) but is only accessible to residents who have registered their dogs with the town and have a code to enter.

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Longshore Sailing School in Westport offers lessons for all ages.

SMOOTH SAILING

SOUND SAILING CENTER

soundsailingcenter.com

YMCA

darien-ymca.org

SOUND WATERS

soundwaters.org

LONGSHORE SAILING SCHOOL

longshoresailingschool.com

GREENWICH COMMUNITY SAILING

© KSUKSA - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; CONTRIBUTED

greenwichsailing.com

Living along the Gold Coast means you better love living life on the water. Make sure to check into the Sound Sailing Center at Calf Pasture Beach in Norwalk for stellar sailing lessons for children and adults, as well as summer camps. The YMCA in Darien also has a youth sailing program, and Sound Waters in Stamford has kayaks and paddle boards available for rent. It also offer private and public schooner sails all summer long, where passengers can relax and enjoy the beauty of the sun setting on Long Island Sound. Longshore Sailing School in Westport is open to the public and offers season passes for kayaks and paddle boards. Greenwich Community Sailing has residents-only junior and adult learn-to-sail programs, offers rentals and hosts private events. » MAY/JUNE 2021 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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48-52 HIT THE COURTS

THE NEW CANAAN RACQUET CLUB ncrctennis.com THE GREENWICH RACQUET CLUB greenwichracquetclub.com ROWAYTON TENNIS ASSOCIATION rowaytontennis.org KINGS HIGHWAY TENNIS CLUB kingshwytennis.com THE WESTPORT TENNIS CLUB westporttennisclub.com

Playing tennis is one of the lowest-risk Covid sporting activities. The New Canaan Racquet Club provides programs ranging from beginners to competitive pros and even offers a free thirty-minute lesson for those still on the fence. Darien and New Canaan also offer lessons through their town recreation departments, and Rowayton Tennis Association and Kings Highway Tennis Club have members-only and summer-camp programs available. The Greenwich Racquet Club and The Westport Tennis Club both offer clinics, parties and yearround programs for those who love to swing.

Local photographer Melani Lust hits the court.

58-61 NATURE’S BEST stamfordmuseum.org

THE CONNECTICUT AUDUBON SOCIETY

ctaudubon.org

DARIEN NATURE CENTER

dariennaturecenter.org

NEW CANAAN

newcanaannature.org

“The Griff” offers lessons and camps.

53-57 TEE TIME

The Stamford Museum and Nature Center is home to Heckscher Farm, where animal lovers are welcome to drop by and say hello all year long. The property also contains over eighty acres of nature trails as well as the Stamford Museum Galleries, which showcases various rotating exhibits.

Darien and New Canaan also have nature centers with extensive outdoor spaces to explore, and in Darien, a collection of live animals can be seen as well.

All three nature centers have playgrounds where kids can run, climb and get the ants out of their pants. The Connecticut Audubon Society in Fairfield runs year-round programs for children to learn about animals and explore the outdoors.

It also offers guided nature walks.

NORWALK COVE MARINA MINI GOLF norwalkcove.com/mini-golf STERLING FARMS sterlingfarmsgc.com STAMFORD AND OAK HILLS oakhillsgc.com FAIRCHILD WHEELER fairchildwheelergolf.com GRIFFITH E. HARRIS thegriffgolf.org Norwalk Cove Marina Mini Golf has an 18-hole course that challenges players like the pros.

To make it even more appealing, visitors can hone their skills while enjoying the scenic water views. For those looking to up their game, Sterling Farms is a public golf course in Stamford and Oak Hills is another in Norwalk. Griffith E. Harris in Greenwich is an 18-hole par 71 public golf course, and Fairchild Wheeler (aka “The Wheel”) opens to the public on May 15. All courses offer lessons for adults and children, with golf camps running throughout the summer. newcanaandarienmag.com

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Stamford Nature Center

JACEK DOLATA; PHOTO COURTESY OF METROPOLITAN GOLF ASSOCIATION; STAMFORD MUSEUM AND NATURE CENTER BY ALI GRAY

THE STAMFORD MUSEUM AND NATURE CENTER

TheGoodLife ||| OUT & ABOUT

66-71

CURBSIDE CONVENIENCE

WALTER STEWART’S

stewartsmarket.com

BALDUCCI’S

instacart.com/balduccis.com

PALMER’S MARKET

palmersdarien.com

KINDRED SPIRITS & WINE

kindredspiritsandwine.com

SIPSTIRS

sipstirs.com

GRAPEVINE

thegrapevinect.com If there’s one thing we hope never goes away, it’s curbside service from some of our local grocery stores. Luckily for us, both Walter Stewart’s in New Canaan and in Darien offer online ordering with options for both delivery and curbside pickup. Balducci’s in Greenwich offers delivery through Instacart. Hungry and thirsty?

The Grapevine in Westport, Kindred Spirits & Wine in Fairfield and Sipstirs in Darien all have an amazing assortment, and they deliver now, too. »

GARVIN BURKE; VENERA ALEXANDROVA

Sipstirs in Darien

62-65 GET YOUR GREENS

FAIRFIELD fairfieldfarmersmarket.org WESTPORT westportfarmersmarket.com NEW CANAAN newcanaanfarmersmarket.com GREENWICH greenwichfarmersmarketct.com

Supporting our local farmers is where it’s at. The Westport Farmers Market opens May 13, and runs through November 11, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Thursday, with a stellar selection of goods. The Fairfield Farmers Market, conveniently located on the Post Road, is open every Sunday from June through October and hosts nearly twenty local farms and food producers. New Canaan has a farmers market, too, with numerous fresh vendors and is open every Saturday, also beginning in June, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Old Center School Lot. Greenwich Farmers Market is held at the Commuter Parking Lot off of Arch Street and Horseneck Lane is open on Saturdays.

MAY/JUNE 2021 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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TheGoodLife ||| OUT & ABOUT

11

72

UNDER THE SEA THE MARITIME AQUARIUM maritimeaquarium.org The Maritime Aquarium maritimeaquarium.org in Norwalk has seventy-five live exhibits and features 300 species of over 2,700 marine animals. From touch tanks to seal shows, this aquamarine adventure has something to offer for everyone. The recently added 4D theater gives visitors the opportunity to enjoy a next level movie experience with effects like bubbles, wind, mists, smells and more. The aquarium also offers year-round public and private charters on its research vessel, ranging from seal-spotting and birding to Norwalk Island cruises.

above: From a brand-new 4D theater to touch tanks and a massive shark environment, a day at the Maritime Aquarium is a must for children and adults alike.

GET CREATIVE

BEST TIME EVER

thebesttimeever.com

HANDS ON POTTERY

hopct.com

ROWAYTON ARTS CENTER

rowaytonarts.org

An art studio in Stamford allows children of all ages to be creative with its array of take-home art kits (think slime making or ceramics painting), drop-in sessions, small group summer camp sessions and birthday parties.

In addition to the art studio, it also has an indoor playscape that gives kids a place to run, jump and explore in a safe environment.

Hands on Pottery in Darien is another great option for indoor fun, and they offer “pottery to go” for those who would rather paint at home.

For adults looking for a more sophisticated art kit, the Rowayton Arts Center now has take-home kits for painting and drawing ranging from $20-$35. Sweet.

76-77 HAY NOW

SALKO FARM

salkofarmandstable.com

MEAD FARM

meadfarm.com

Horseback riding has been known to reduce stress and increase creativity, so who wouldn’t want that? Mead Farm is one of the oldest horseback riding facilities in Stamford and has been operating since 1928. It offers year-round riding private and group lessons for both children and adults and caters to first-time riders and experts. Salko Farm in Southport also offers lessons, a summer riding clinic and even hosts birthday parties.

78

KEEP IT COOL

LAKE MOHEGAN Most towns along the coast have public beaches that residents can frequent with town-issued passes and non-residents can visit with day passes (but those take some planning). Lake Mohegan in Fairfield is a family-friendly place to swim or hang out on a sandy shore. The 170-acre park has hiking trails, a manmade fresh-water lake, sprinkler park, playground and snack bar. Since it’s open to the public, a last-minute trip is super easy. Entrance fees ranging from four to eighteen dollars, depending on age, residency and day of the week, are paid at the gate. »

newcanaandarienmag.com

78

MARITIME AQUARIUM; LAKE MOHEGAN BY AMBER SCINTO

73-75

Lake Mohegan in Fairfield

TheGoodLife ||| FASHION

St yle Points

Shopping local is more important now than ev er before. Lucky for us all the best to choose fr , we have om, right here in our ow n backyard by me ga n gagn on

79-82 MODERN UNIFORM

SHOP SMARTER, NOT HARDER

I

f you could only stock your closet with pieces from these stores, you’d be more than set. An endless stream of possibilities would be at your disposal; the ability to craft ensembles with their minimal neutrals, tailored separates and fine knits. And if you’re only associating these lines with workwear, you’re missing out on the versatility that the clothes offer, inside or outside an office setting.

THEORY Good linen casual blazer; $495. Silk wideleg pull-on pant; $365

FIND THEM HERE Theory, Greenwich & Westport Vince, Greenwich & Westport Joie, Greenwich Club Monaco, Greenwich

JULY 2019 GREENWICH

79

TheGoodLife ||| FASHION

Shop To It Navigate our stylish spots by addressing all of your wardrobe needs

83-8 6

ULTRA LOUNGE

SAY GOODBYE TO SAD SWEATPANTS

87-92

EXPERT EDIT

SMALL BOUTIQUES WITH BIG STYLE

You know them (or you should) by now: those boutiques that line our main streets, filling the smaller spaces between larger, name-brand stores. What they (sometimes) lack in real estate, they make up for in selection, a curated mix of labels and musthave accessories. Knowledgeable owners can make suggestions, point out new styles and provide the oneon-one customer service that’ll keep you coming back.

FIND THEM HERE

FIND THEM HERE

Marine Layer, Westport Splendid, Westport Warm, Darien Whim, Darien & Stamford Splendid Speckled lounge hoodie and pants; $138 each

Perfect Provenance, Greenwich Chou Chou, Rowayton Togs, New Canaan Fred, Old Greenwich & Westport Apricot Lane, Fairfield Great Stuff, Greenwich & Westport

93-98

GOOD JEANS

THE PERFECT PAIR IS A DRESSING ROOM AWAY

above: Come for the Frame jeans. Try not to want everything else.

Just when you think you’ve found your dream denim, a new style or brand always seems to appear, convincing you that yes, you do need at least one more pair of jeans.

Now a staple in every fashionable woman’s wardrobe, the options for style, size, length, rise and rinse are limitless. But finding the ones that are right for you? That’s where it gets tricky. Head to these spots to try something on, try something new (cropped flares are fun for summer) and add a few more to your jean collection. newcanaandarienmag.com

80

FIND THEM HERE Rag & Bone, Greenwich Frame, Greenwich Madewell, Greenwich & Westport 7 For All Mankind, Westport B Chic, Wilton Havana Jeans, Stamford

PERFECT PROVENANCE BY JULIE BIDWELL; ALL OTHER IMAGES COURTESY OF STORES

First there was athleisure, that hybrid category embraced by everyone hoping to make their days at work and on-thego just a little more comfortable. Then came stay-at-home orders and the birth of a whole new category of elevated loungewear, offering stylish alternatives to your coziest sets.

Think separates that work in and out of the house and can be dressed up as needed. Add some statement sneakers if you’re venturing out and you’ve got one chic look.

above: Greenwich’s Perfect Provenance is housed in a 1912 Victorian home

99-103

THE CLASSICS

FUTURE-PROOF FASHION IS WORTH THE INVESTMENT

Timeless clothes will always be in style, despite what the latest trend forecast predicts (although mixing in modern pieces is always encouraged). These are the places we know will always have the perfect blazer, the classic coat, the crisp button-down shirt. And when it comes to iconic stripes or sweet gingham prints, you can never have enough.

left: Veronica Beard Greenwich is furnished with Schumacherupholstered pieces

J. CREW Shirt dress; $128

FIND THEM HERE Vineyard Vines, Greenwich, New Canaan & Westport J. Crew, Greenwich, New Canaan, Stamford & Westport, Ralph Lauren, New Canaan J. McLaughlin, Darien, Greenwich & New Canaan Talbots, Westport

above: 4.83 ct. fancy yellow cushion-cut ring

104-107

LUXE LABELS FROM THE RUNWAY TO YOUR CLOSET We should count ourselves lucky that so many fabulous designers have set up shop in our towns. You may spot their pieces elsewhere but having access to an entire seasonal line from your favorite brand is a whole other experience. Even better, getting to spend time in the gorgeous spaces thoughtfully designed to complement their collections.

TORY BURCH Lee Radziwill small double bag; $998

FIND THEM HERE Veronica Beard, Greenwich Tory Burch, Greenwich Jenni Kayne, Greenwich Alice & Olivia, Greenwich

113-117

TRAVEL READY

JUST ADD WATER

ROLLER RABBIT BY ANTHONY BATISTA; ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF STORES/BRANDS

above: The grand staircase at Richards in Greenwich

108-112

AT YOUR SERVICE

WHO DOESN’T LOVE A LITTLE HELP?

Everyone deserves a vacation this year. But even if you’re only planning on going as far as your own backyard or town beach, there’s no reason why you can’t stock up on new resortwear pieces. Build a summer capsule around block-printed caftans, breezy wrap dresses and some tassel-trimmed coverups to pair with a fresh rotation of swimsuits.

Sometimes you need to enlist the expertise of a personal shopper to find the perfect outfit for a special occasion. Sometimes you’re in a browsing mood, open to possibility and looking for inspiration.

Sometimes shoes are on sale. Whatever the reason, a visit to a department or specialty store delivers all of these experiences (and more) under one roof.

FIND THEM HERE

FIND THEM HERE

Everything But Water, Greenwich Roller Rabbit, Greenwich Eres, Greenwich Soleil Toile, New Canaan & Westport Morley, Darien

Mitchells, Westport Richards, Greenwich Barneys at Saks, Greenwich Saks Fifth Avenue, Greenwich Darien Sport Shop, Darien

Roller Rabbit Rhody ruffle bralette; $64.

Hipster; $50

TheGoodLife ||| JEWELRY

118 EVERYDAY ELEGANCE

HENRY C. REID & SON JEWELERS hcreidjewelers.com

ILA Deja Necklace; $6,185

Town Jewels

Our local experts fill us in on new styles, old favorites and the best parts about selling sparkle by megan gagnon

Q: What new necklace styles are customers requesting?

A: “I am finding lately that women want to wear something beautiful but different; somewhat more understated and wearable on a daily basis.

We create many pieces in house using recycled gold as well as partnering with different vendors that share our sustainable mindset. For us, the key is offering jewelry that our clients connect with in a traditional sense, but it has to be a little different than what anyone else has.”

—Greg French, President, Henry C. Reid & Son Jewelers

BUDS BETTERIDGE 120 BEST

Q: What’s a unique gift idea that you love to recommend?

A: “I point people toward these pieces by Buccellati; they’re fine, signed, wearable and affordable. The necklace is a sterling silver, vermeil, and fancy color diamond forty-two-inch chain, easy to wear single or double, just dressy enough but playful and feminine. The earrings can be worn alone or with other silver or gold jewelry. I really think they’re good for any age; both my wife and daughter have the earrings and love them.”

—Warren Lagerloef, Senior Sales Executive, Betteridge

Platinum emerald and diamond ring; $23,000

119

Buccellati Daisy necklace; $2,700. Gardenia earrings; $240

GO GREEN

FAYE KIM DESIGNS

betteridge.com

fayekimdesigns.com

Q: Which gemstones are you loving lately?

A: “I find the lush green color of emeralds very soothing and calming. The striking green colored gemstone has throughout history symbolized love, abundance, hope, renewal and growth. What better time than now to indulge in nature’s beauty and positivity?”

—Faye Kim, Owner/Designer, Faye Kim Designs newcanaandarienmag.com

82

121 LOBE STORY

NAGI JEWELERS nagijewelers.com

122 PIECE OF HISTORY

SIMON TEAKLE FINE JEWELRY & OBJECTS

Diamond engagement ring in platinum and yellow gold; $8,450

123

simonteakle.com

Q: What’s your current favorite estate piece?

Sea of Beauty floating pearl open marquise earrings by Mizuki; $650

A: “Using old European cut diamonds, this beautiful necklace is important yet retains an elegant, soft appearance. Exquisitely made, it has perfect movement when worn.”

—Simon Teakle, Owner, Simon Teakle Fine Jewelry & Objects

Q: What are some modern earrings trends you’re seeing?

A: “Earrings are in! With masks on faces, earrings seem to be the one item we want to make sure we have on. The earring trends for 2021 seem to be large hoops, and long earrings.

Single earrings are very fashionable, and mismatched, imperfectly round pearls are very trendy. Pearls, in general, are back.”

—Liz Osta, Owner, Nagi Jewelers

Bulgari Serpenti Seduttori 33mm in yellow gold; $28,200

Antique diamond cluster necklace, circa 1880; $148,000

124 WATCH OUT

MANFREDI JEWELS manfredijewels.com

RETRO RINGS

LUX BOND & GREEN lbgreen.com

Q: What are some new engagement ring styles you’ve been selling?

A: “We’re going back in time to a more traditional diamond engagement ring with tapered baguettes. Yellow gold is also making a strong comeback.”

—John Green, President & CEO, Lux Bond & Green

18K yellow gold origami emerald hoop earrings by Katherine Jetter; price upon request

18K yellow gold Tahitian pearl chain earrings by Katherine Jetter; $7,480

IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS

Q: What are some women’s watch trends we can expect to see this year?

A: “One of the trends in 2021 in women’s watches is the return of the yellow gold bracelet watches. It can be with or without diamonds but yellow gold is back. Another trend is to wear very feminine watches.

Often ladies’ pieces are men’s watches that are just made smaller, but there are some really beautiful pieces from brands like Chopard, Bulgari and Hermès. These brands create watches that are specifically designed for women. Bulgari with the Serpenti Seduttori, the Imperiale from Chopard and the ever classic Hermès Cape Cod are watches that are the definition of femininity.”

—Roberto Chiappelloni, Owner, Manfredi Jewels

IT PERSONAL 125 MAKE MITCHELLS

mitchellstores.com

Q: What’s the best part about having jewelry trunk shows in-store?

A: “Our vendor partners are part of our Mitchell family, and we love having them come into our stores. Jewelry trunk shows give our associates and clients the opportunity to view the breath of their collections and engage directly with the designer so they can select the perfect piece.”

—Jennifer Farrington, Jewelry Buyer, Mitchells

MAY/JUNE 2021 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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newcanaandarienmag.com

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advertisers index ART & ANTIQUES Drew Klotz Kinetic Sculpture........................................................................ 33

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Voices of

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COURAGE

Spring Luncheon

FOOD, CATERING & LODGING Winvian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8, 9 HEALTH & BEAUTY Hartford HealthCare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cover 3 Hospital for Special Surgery.......................................................................... 13 LCB Senior Living, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 ONS Orthopaedic & Neurosurgury Health �����������������������������������������������17 Paul D. Harbottle, DDS, LLC .......................................................................... 45 Stamford Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

May 20, 2021 We are pleased to announce DVCC’s 19th Annual Voices of Courage Spring Luncheon will be held May 20, 2021 from 11:30am-1pm. The virtual event will include keynote speaker, Donna Ferrato, an awardwinning photojournalist, author, domestic violence prevention activist and feminist.

FASHION & JEWELRY Darien Sport Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Lux Bond & Green . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Manfredi Jewelers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cover 4 The RealReal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 LANDSCAPING, NURSERY & FLORISTS Homefront Farmers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Palmer’s Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2, 3 NONPROFIT The Carver Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Darien Chamber of Commerce.................................................................... 85 Darien Nature Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Elephant Sanctuary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 Live Girl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Person to Person . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

To purchase tickets visit: www.dvccct.org/voices-of-courage-2021

REAL ESTATE Willliam Raveis-Shelton HQ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cover 2 REAL ESTATE/DESTINATION John’s Island Real Estate Company ���������������������������������������������������������� 47 MISCELLANEOUS Flowcode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Hollow Tree Self Storage ................................................................................ 33 MRI Survey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Westy Self Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 MAY/JUNE 2021 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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postscript by emily liebert

Page-Turners

Women searching for happiness, murder mysteries and 100 haikus to cure your breakup blues—THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE on this list. So brush off your beach bags and savor the sun with one of these sizzling page-turners.

F

rom the queen of the beach read and No. 1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Weiner comes a summer saga that takes readers from the manicured Main Line of Philadelphia to the wild landscape of the Outer Cape. Protagonist Daisy Shoemaker can’t sleep.

She should be happy.

Between her flourishing cooking business, extensive volunteer work and beautiful home in the suburbs, what could be so bad? Just a few things, such as her challenging teenage daughter, her distant husband and her long list of acquaintances, who aren’t real friends. She’s also receiving emails meant for Diana Starling, whose email address is just one punctuation mark away from her own. Yet their lives are drastically different. Is their chance connection an accident? This sharply observed novel is about facing our past and future and the power of female friendship.

F*CK YOU HAIKU: LITTLE BREAKUP POEMS TO HELP YOU VENT, HEAL, AND MOVE ON

BY KRISTINA GRISH

W

hat do you do when your husband unexpectedly announces that your marriage is over and you’re desperate to process all of the messy and intense feelings you’re experiencing? If you’re Westport’s own Kristina Grish, a seasoned writer and columnist, you turn your pain into poetry by penning 100 breakup haikus inspired by past relationships and universal wisdom.

And what results is a relatable and, at times, irreverent collection—in other words, the perfect antidote for a broken heart. Snag a copy for yourself, a family member or a friend so you can finally say “f*ck you” to that special someone and “love you” to yourself.

DEATH IN THE FAMILY AND THE DEAD SEASON

BY TESSA WEGERT

DON’T MAKE ME TURN THIS LIFE AROUND

BY CAMILLE PAGÁN

T

hirteen years ago, doctors told Libby Ross-Velasquez she wasn’t going to survive cancer. Yet, even though she’s beaten the odds, she doesn’t feel alive inside. Maybe because her father’s death weighs on her. Her husband, Shiloh, acts distant. And one of their daughters has serious health concerns. Libby knows she needs to do something to breathe life back into her family, so she books a vacation for all of them to the Puerto Rican island of Vieques, where she and Shiloh fell in love and, also, where she fought her cancer diagnosis. But when a tropical storm unexpectedly hits, she questions her decision.

Still, the worst disaster they’ve faced may be the best thing that ever happened to them. If they can endure it…

he only thing better than one chilling thriller is two chilling thrillers! And that’s exactly what Darien author Tessa Wegert delivers with the debut and sophomore books in her new mystery series, primarily based in the Thousand Islands of Upstate New York, where America’s elite summered in the latenineteenth century. The stories follow Senior Investigator Shana Merchant who fled her NYC detective job to pursue serial killer Blake Bram, as she entangles herself in missing persons cases and murders. Prepare to stay up way past your bedtime glued to these addictive, fast-paced novels.

newcanaandarienmag.com

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T

THE NEWCOMER

BY MARY KAY ANDREWS

N

ew York Times bestselling author Mary Kay Andrews has done it again with this summer’s hottest read.

When Letty Carnahan discovers her sister Tanya dead on the floor of her NYC townhouse, she’s positive she knows who did it: Tanya’s shady ex, Evan Wingfield, a real estate entrepreneur.

How? Because of Tanya’s warnings: “If anything bad happens to me, it’s Evan. Promise me you’ll take Maya and run.

Promise me.” So Letty does just that. She hits the road with her fouryear-old niece in an attempt to out run the law (and Evan). All she has is what Tanya left her: a bag of cash, a diamond ring and an old magazine story about The Murmuring Surf Motel in Florida, where she checks in. Letty’s mission is to heal Maya’s pain and uncover the key to her past, while avoiding the local police detective. Will she find the truth or will danger close in on her first?

CONTRIBUTED

THAT SUMMER

BY JENNIFER WEINER

Up the stairs or down the shore.

Whatever your destination, our new orthopaedic institute will get you there.

Getting back to your favorite places and activities starts by going to see the orthopaedic experts at St. Vincent’s Medical Center. With Connecticut’s most experienced surgeons, sophisticated procedures and safe, concierge-level care at every step, we’re a new orthopaedic destination to help you reach yours. Learn more at CTOrthoInstitute.org.