not Necessarily The Hamptons
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF | PUBLISHER
MicheleA.McDonald
PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR-AT-LARGE
MorganMcGivern
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Contributors
JessicaMaloney
Licensed
Letterfromthe
Editor
...whichleadsmeto believeifthatistruethentheflirtingmust startinthefall.
Hey there, it’s been a while… to say the least. Well, I’m back! - with a new team, a new vision and a whole new way to share what we have to say Like many great programs before us, (ie: Sex & The City, Happy Days, Parks and Recreation, and The Office, etc) Not Necessarily The Hamptons™ has shifted focus from being a Talk Show, a round table discussion with Long Island Comedians to a Long Island Lifestyle media multi-media outlet, Not Necessarily The Hamptons.
My vision is to create a stylish, informative, innovative, authentic, conscious, inspiring,
entertaining, entrepreneurial magazine/media movement that covers Long Island Life, NOT NECESSARILY THE HAMPTONS. While staying true to the Bohemian Lifestyle In a world of imitation and replication we wanted something different, something authentic, something truly reflective of Long Island life, something we could take beyond the pages of a magazine
Autum is my absolute favorite, I just love it! I simply adore how the crisp cool breeze carry the scent of pumpkin and cinnamon spices. One of my favorite poets Simon Von Booy has a collection of short stories titled ‘Love Begins in Winter”. Which leads me to believe that if this is true - then the flirting must start in the fall! It is with this in mind I came to realize there was not a better time to present you with our first issue of Not Necessarily The Hamptons, Fall 2024
Long Island is the perfect combination of beach, vineyard and farm I simply adore the comforts of small town living with the glitz and glamor of one of the world’s TOP travel destinations, NYC at my fingertips Allow me to show you the excitement, culture and beauty life on Long Island affords, I’m @micheleamcdonald welcome back to @notnecessarilythehamptons
MicheleA McDonald EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Re-Living The
Where life is about simple human connect
Woven Intent @WovenIntent_ & Acension Wellness +Healing Collective Retail Therapy Boutique @ascensionwellnessny located in Huntington hosted a Knitting Night to benefit a Local Long Island Dilara 9year old who is batteling brain cancer. I always love an opportunity to share time with outhers engaging in an activity with the opportuity for conversation, like we did in simpler time, A time before we all had a smart phone in out hands at all times. A time I remember as the 1990's. It leaves you feeling extra good knowing that you’re fun night out helped a local Long Island Family.
AMY GREEN AND GARY GREEN HOSTED THE SECOND ANNUAL FOOTPRINT OF LIFE GALA ENVIRONMENTALTHEMED “50 SHADES OF BLUE”AT THEIR HOME IN BRIDGEHAMPTON BENEFITTING THE FAMILY-RUN THE GREEN VISION FOUNDATION THE STAT STUDDED GUEST ENJOYED MUSICAL PERFORMANCE BY THREE-TIME GRAMMY WINNER AND SCREEN ACTORS GUILD AWARD RECIPENT LUDACRIS
PRAKTI X GOOP
HANGING IN THE HAMPTONS IN CELEBRATION OF THE EXCLUSIVE LAUNCH OF PRAKTI X GOOP I WAS TREATED TO THE MOST LUXURIOUS FACIAL AND HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO MEET & CHAT WITH PRITIKA SWARUP FOUNDER & CEO, RENOWNED INTERNATIONAL MODEL & ROLEMODEL LEADING THE MOVEMENT IN #EDUCATIONOFSELFLOVE #EMPOWERMENT
PHOTO CREDIT: MARSIN MOGIELSKI
OLD WESTBURY GARDENS 15TH ANNUAL
CHILDREN IN BLOOMS LUNCHEON
JEAN SHAFIROFF, PHILANTHROPIST, TELEVISION HOST, & AUTHOR WAS HONORED AT THE 15TH ANNUAL CHILDREN IN BLOOMS LUNCHON IN SUPPORT OF OLD WESTBURY GARDENS EDUCATION AND ENVIROMENTAL PROGRAMS.
NYC SECOND CHANCE ANIMAL RESCUE HOLDS 3RD ANNUAL HAMPTONS BENEFIT” CONCERT FOR A CAUSE” HONORING ALEXA RAY JOEL AND FEATURING A MUSICAL PERFORMANCE BY FAT JOE
PHOTO CREDIT:PMC/ SEAN ZANNI
PHOTO CREDIT: PMC/ SEAN ZANN
Entertaining at HomE home for the holidays
Ilike to add a fun in unexpected ways and by using unexpectedelement in different ways, when I’mhosting.Pumpkins are a fun festive way to incorporate the elements of the season into the celebration. Instead of simply putting out chips and salsa for my guest, I carvedapumpkin,putthe salsa bowl inside of the pumpkin. How festive and fun!
The holidays are upon us, and soon our home will be filled with family and friends spreading holiday cheer. I like to use edible treats for place card that way the guest have a sweet-treats a take away after the celebration.
Annual Planners make GREAT gifts for the holidays
Friday January 10, 2025 Tickets
INSPIRING INFLUENCER: LEESA ROWLAND
Actress, Philanthropist, and Author Leesa Rowland is an ‘Inspiring Influencer’ that isn't gatekeeping the path to her own success; she has literally wrote the handbook. Yes, that’s right in the self-help guide, The Charisma Factor Leesa shares her secrets of incorporating magnetic charm, improving how you relate to those aroundyou,andtogain personalinfluence inyourlife.
“I think it’s especially important now and when we’re coming out of the pandemic. I want to help people become the best that they can be. One of the chapters that's a strong chapter about different charismatic personalities, the traits that they have and their magnetism. It’s like behavior study really”.Rowlandshares.
FormoreonLeesa:@RealLeesaRowland
Photo Credit: Bfa/ Madeline Thomas and SIPA USA/ Dave Warren
Are you one of Long Island’s Newest Newleyweds? Or do you know a couple that is? We would love to hear all the details! For consideration to be featured please email: The Couple’s legal names, date of legal marriage ceremony and the place of the wedding don’t forget to include the details of the love story to: NotNecessarilyTheHamptons@gmail com
NewestNewlyweds TheWeiss ’ s
Meet The Weiss’s Long Island’s Newest Newlyweds: Evan & Michelle
Evan Weiss of Mt Sinai, NY and Michelle Boyd of Palm Beach, Florida met in Palm Beach, Florida It was love at first sight
After years of a long distance relationship they celebrated their marriage with a destination wedding at a Castle in , Mississippi on October 19, 2024 The couple is living their happily ever after in Mt Sinai
LIVEWELL: COPINGTHROUGH
TheMostWonderful TIMEOFTHEYEAR
By: Jessica Moloney Licencesd Mental Health Counselor
The changing leaves and cozy sweaters signal the arrival of fall, but for many, the fall/winter months bring a different experience shorter days, less sunlight, cold weather, and holiday stress While many look forward to the end-of-year celebrations, some find this period challenging, triggering feelings of loneliness, anxiety, or sadness If you feel this way, know that you’re not alone
The way your holiday seasons look and feel has likely changed a lot over the years You’ve grown up, you may have lost some family members along the way, relationships have changed, etc.. This season forces us to reflect on family, the pressure of having to be jolly, participate in all the holiday events, and give gifts, even if we feel we don’t have much to give. If this time of year tends to weigh heavy on you, it’s perfectly okay to not be in the mood when the world seems to expect you to feel joyous When you experience sadness or stress during this season, recognize that your feelings are valid It’s likely a case of the “Holiday Blues”,
however, you may also be feeling symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). SAD is a type of depression linked to seasonal changes, most commonly starting in late fall and lasting until spring Symptoms include fatigue, low mood, irritability, and changes in sleep or appetite Often, it’s the reduced daylight and colder temperatures that contribute to this shift According to the American Psychiatric Association, up to 5% of U S adults experience SAD *If you think you are experiencing SAD, please reach out to a licensed therapist in your state to seek support and counseling
If the cold weather and shorter days have got you feeling down, and/or you’re feeling some dread approaching the holiday season, let’s talk about some tips and tricks to get you through it
-Practice Self - Awareness & Be Intentional:
Your perspective and the things you tell yourself set you up for the season even before it begins! If you’ve been.
telling yourself for 2 months that ‘this is gonna suck’, it likely will suck! We have the power of convincing ourselves of some pretty incredible things, however, what you seek, you shall find Even if there are less glimmers than you hoped for this season, intentionally seek them out If you’re seeing family, show up with an intention to be the best version of yourself! Think about how you want to respond to
others who may trigger or frustrate you. Try to remember that you are not the child or version of yourself that you used to be When all else fails, set yourself up with an escape plan Once you feel like you’ve had enough, if its time to go in the best interest of your mental well being, you say goodbye with a smile knowing you are choosing to value yourself and your needs, and there is nothing wrong with that. Boundaries are your friend
3 Self Care Is Essential:
Try some of these things that are proven to improve your mood and energy levels! Seek out the sunshine! Especially to ward off those feelings of SAD If you cant get outside, try a light box for some light therapy Move your body! Exercise releases endorphins, which act as natural mood boosters and works some serious wonders for your mental health. If you feel disconnected from the holiday cheer, remember that you don’t need to live up to
others expectations of “holiday cheer” Turn off the hallmark channel and put on your favorite chick flick or slasher moviewhatever does it for ya! Cut yourself some slack, and give yourself permission to feel however you need to feel then choose to surround yourself with people, places, things, etc that DO help you feel good Staying connected to a support system holds incredible value - this is where that therapist can come in handy! The holiday season can be challenging, and you’re
allowed to feel that way. But, remember, feelings are not facts It is ok to feel your feels, but they do not define you and they do not keep you down This year, you will approach this season on your own terms, focusing on what truly nurtures your spirit - not what society or expectation dictates Embrace the idea of rewriting the definition of this season and who you will become as you weather through it and know that, like all seasons, this too shall pass
Tipstoshiftperspective andbemindfulofyour MentalHealththrough theholidayseason.
NYWIFTV ANNUAL BRUNCH AT HIFF
NEW YORK WOMEN IN FILM & TELEVISION HOSTED ANNUAL AFTERNOON BUNCH DURING THE HAMPTONS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVLE AT MULFORD FARM IN EAST HAMPTON VILLAGE
THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES CROWN PRINCE ALEXANDER AND CROWN PRINCESS KATHERINE OF SERBIA HOST ANNUAL LIFELINE NEW YORK BENEFITT DINNER
PHOTO CREDIT: PMC/SYLVAIN GABOURY
ACTRESS, PHILANTHROPIST, & AUTHOR LEESA ROWLAND AND LARRY WOHL HELD HER ‘MASQUERADE BALL” AT THE ANGEL ORENSANZ CENTER IN NEW YORK CITY-AN AFFAIR OF STYLE & BEAUTY. PLUS A SPECIA TRIBUTE TO STUDIO 54 ‘S CARMEN D’ ALESSIO WHO’S BIRTHDAY WAS CELEBRATED BY REPEATED HER COMING OUT OF A BIRTHDAY CAKE ONSTAGE REPLICATING HER SIMILAR CELEBRATION 40 YEARS AGO
PHOTO CREDIT: BFA/MADELINE THOMAS, AND ROLISE
ELYSIAN’S IMPACT CATWALK FURBABY SHOW AT NYFW
ELYSIAN’S FOUNDER KAREN FLOYD BRINGS CHARITIES, MODELS, AND EDESIGNERS TOGETHER FOR THE 2ND ANNUAL CATWALK FURBABY FASHION SHOW AT NYFW
THE PROSTATE CANCER FOUNDATION’S 24TH ANNUAL GALA IN THE HAMPTONS PROVIDES SIMPLY THE BEST SEASON FINALE. FEATURING A SPECIAL MUSICAL PERFORMANCE BY TINA THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL.
PHOTO CREDIT PMC/ JARED SISKIN
PHOTO CREDIT: PMC/JARED SISKIN , BFA/ MADISON VOELKEL
Old Westbury Gardens LongIslandLibraryTreasures:
By Michele A. McDonald
Photography by G Florek, & J Sabo
When was the last time you visited your local library? Do you still carry your library card in your wallet? It might be time you check in on your local library, there’s a whole lot more to check out than just the books
Our local Long island Libraries are a treasure trove of treats and resources Offering SO much more than books and eBooks
Our local libraries have activities for all ages, literally ranging from children and family activities for toddlers up to senior seminars educating the aging population of what county programs and services they could qualify for
Our local libraries also offer a place for the community to gather There are many ongoing programs like Game Day, Knitting & Crocheting Circle, Live Musical Performances, Movie Showing, and etc , etc
Chances are in your wallet you h
The treasure trove of treats Long Island Libraries offers has SO much more! Did you know that in addition to books and eBooks, there is a library of things? And, they have EVERYTHING! Seriously, everything from metal detectors, to telescopes, to lawn games, karaoke machines, DVD players and VCRs and SO much more
Fun fact for those of us that like to explore all of the incredible museums parks and gardens Long Island and NYC offer- with your library card there are SO many FREE Print on demand passes (including Old Westbury Gardens), discount tickets available at the library and so many more perks for Long Island Library card carriers.
Old Westbury Gardens celebrated 65years as a public garden and historic site. Old Westbury Gardens has an array of activities for all ages year round There are even a couple of days a year where you ’ re welcome to brig your pup! Visit www OldWestburyGardens org and/or check out @OldWestBuryGardens to learn more
Our local Long island Libraries are a treasure trove of treats and resources, follow along as we share the adventuress of exploring @NotNecessarilyTheHamptons
OldWestburyGardenshasanarrapyofactivitiesforallagesyearround.Thereareevenacoupleof
“I’m
very excited to share my vision of life through music with you
” . -Aleksandra Papierz
POLISH POPSTAR LIVING HER AMERICAN DREAM AleksandraPapierz
By Michele A McDonald Photography
Not Necessarily The Hamptons, recently had the opportunity to catch up and chat with, our good friend Polish Popstar Aleksandra Paprietz
NNTH: What was the role of music in the early years of your life?
AP: Music was everything to me growing up It was my escape, my passion,
my way of expressing emotions I couldn't put in to words. I was singing and writing songs before I even understood how powerful that connection was.
NNTH: Are you from a musical family?
AP:Not entirely, but music was always present in my home
My mother finished her musician studies in Poland and she plays piano and violin, my father used to play and sing popular 80/90s songs by the campfire with his friends
NNTH: How could you describe your music?
AP: It’s emotional, nostalgic, and heartfelt. I like to think of it as a bridge
between dreamy European pop and the more vibrant, bold energy of American pop
NNTH: Describe your creative process
It usually starts with a feeling I’ll sit down with a melody or lyric that reflects my mood, and I build around that
Sometimes it’s a voice memo recorded on a random walk, car drive other times it’s a 31
courtsey of Aleksandra Papierz
You can stream my music on all major platforms Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube. And don’t forget to follow me on social media for updates on new releases and shows! You just have to type in my name: Aleksandra Papierz. Thank you for your support!
walk, car drive other times it’s a late-night session in the studio with my dear friend and phenomenal producer Denney Fischel, we try to let the emotions guide the process
NNTH: What is your main inspiration?
AP: Loveand life experiences I draw from relationships, both good and bad, and the bittersweet moments that make us human. Nostalgia also plays a huge part in my songwriting.
AP:I wanted to challenge myself and take my career to the next level. The music industry in America offers so many opportunities to connect with a global audience. Plus, I always dreamed of living in a place where creativity feels limitless
NNTH: 8 How is it different being a PopStar in Poland and being an American Popstar?
NNTH: What is the biggest difference in the process between the two countries?
AP: The industry in America is faster-paced, and there’s a stronger focus on branding and staying relevant in a constantly changing market. In Poland, there’s more emphasis on artistry and staying true to your roots.
NNTH: What’s next for you?
NNTH: Has your style evolved since the beginning?
AP: Absolutely. I’ve grown a lot, not only as a person but also as an artist My earlier music was more innocent and raw, while now it’s more polished, with a deeper emotional edge Living in America has also introduced me to new sounds and collaborations that have shaped my style
NNTH: 7 What led you to America?
AP: In Poland, there’s a strong sense of community, and the music scene feels more intimate. In America, everything is on a larger scale bigger audiences, more competition, and endless chances to reinvent yourself. Both are amazing in their own ways.
AP:I’m working on my next album, which will explore a mix of my Polish roots and my American experiences I also want to collaborate with more international artists and plan a tour that bridges both worlds
@Aleksandra_Papierz
YOGMATA KEIKO AIKAWA
WORLD -RENOWNED MASTER OF MEDITATION YOGMATA KEIKO AIKAWA HOLDS NEW YORK IN PERSON WORKSHOP.
PHOTO CREDIT: SCIENCE OF ENLIGHTENMENT
PATRICIA SILVERSTEIN FOUNDER OF THE SILVERSTEIN DREAM FOUNDATION RECIEVES HEALTH & PHILANTHROPY VISIONARY AWARD AT THE 36TH ANNUAL DOMINICAN WOMENS DEVELOPMENT CENTER GALA “BUILDING FUTURES”.
PHOTO CREDIT:PMC/ MICHAEL OSTUNI
JEAN & MARTIN SHAFIROFF HOST RECEPTION CELEBRATING OPERA ITALIANA IN IN THE AIR AND MAESTRO ALVISE CASELLATI,FOLLOWING HIS CENTRAL PARK PERFORMANCE ATTENDED BY THOUSANDS OF FIRST TIME LISTENERS AND FANS OF OPERA.
ANN LIGUORI BOOK PARTY
SPORTS MEDIA MAVEN, ENTRENPENUER, AND PHILANTHROPIST
ANN LIGUORI CELEBRATED THE RELEASE OF HER SECOND BOOK, ‘LIFE ON THE GREEN: LESSONS AND WISDOM FROM LEGENDS OF GOLF’ WITH FRIENDS AND WELL WISHERS
JEAN SHAFIROFF A MEMBER OF PALM BEACH HISTORICAL SOCIETY’S BOARD OF ADVISORS. HOST COCKTAIL PARTY FOR HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF PALM BEACH COUNTY EXHIBIT, WISH YOU WERE HERE; TOURISM IN THE PALM BEACHES LAUNCH IN NYC WITH A FALL FASHION PRESENTATION FROM ST.JOHN.
PHOTO CREDIT: SIPA USA/ DAVE WARREN
PHOTO CREDIT: BFA/ DANTE CRICHLOW
THE RECIPE
BREAKFAST OMELET MUFF
This is super simple and super yummy! I simply gatheredmyfavoriteomeletingredients,Ichose: baby spinach, yellow onion, red, green, orange andyellowpeppersandeggs
Ichoppedtheveggies
Icrackopen1dozeneggsandputthemin toalargemixingbowl
Sautéed the onion and peppers on the stove top on a medium flame for about 5minutes
I then added my baby spinach for an additionaltwominutes
Mix the sauteed veggies with the 1 dozen eggs
Pourintoeighteenmuffinpans
Bakeat350degreesforabout20minutes
* Don’t forget to grease the muffin pans so thebreakfastomeletmuffinseasilycomeout.
IprefertouseEVOO
After they cool, store in the fridge, and Omelet Muffins will be ready for you all you have to do is warm in your toaster oven
Cipollini Trattoria & Bar
2110 Northern Blvd, Manhasset
Anyone who has dined with me knows that I almost never pass on a sweet treat. Entrees are packaged to go, as I indulge in the decant dessert. Cippolini offers a variety of choices, I always select their famous signature Napoleon. I just love the refreshingly delicious the balance of the light flaky pastry, combined with the fluffy cream and sweet strawberries topped with confectionary sugar taste.
Wolffer Estate Vineyard
139 Sagg Road, Sagaponack
Wolffer Estate Vineyard is one of my favorite Long Island Vineyards and has been for at least a decade and a half. The Perle Chardonnay is my personal favorite, the rich flavor of oak with refreshing hints of the flavors of fruit, SO yum. You can imagine my delight when Wolffer offered a Perle Chardonnay Cupcake! Flavorful, moist carrot cake with caramel filling, & Perle Chardonnay cream cheese frosting. Absolutely beyond delicious!
“ T H E S U R F W E N T F L A T . . . N O W W H A T D O I D O ? ”
What we’re Reading...
ife On The Green, Lessons & Wisdom from Legends of Golf’, Ann Liguori’s second book published by Hatherleigh Press is a sequel to her 2007 book ‘A Passion for Golf, Celebrity Musings about the Game’. Available in book stores and on Amazon com
Lessa Rowland’s book ‘The Charisma Factor: Secrets of Magnetic Charm and Personal Influence In Your Life’ published by Harthtleigh Press. Leesa’s book identifies charisma as an unseen, yet powerful force that has many different facets. It is something that all people possesswheather they are aware of it or not. Available in book stores and on Amazon com
Glimmers Of Joy Glimmers Of Joy Glimmers Of Joy Fall Favorites: Fall Favorites: Fall Favorites:
Life is about moments, one of the ways I like to incorporate magic in to the moments of my life is by choosing to find the ‘glimmers of joy’ in my everyday activities and some days the activity is to simply find the ‘glimmers of joy’.
Vineyard Vineyard Vineyard
@wolfferwine
139 Sagg Road Sagaponack, NY
For the last fifteen years or so, Wolffer Estate Vineyard has been my favorite Long Island vineyard to visit. I absolutely adore the Perle Chardonnay, it’s my favorite wine Wolffer offers.
@ascenionwellnessny
168 Main Street ,Huntington
I love this place! Ascension Wellness and Healing Collective Retail Therapy Boutique is ah-MAE-zing! It’s kind of like an unofficial clubhouse for those of us that have prioritized living a practice of being mindful, living in a healthy non-toxic way.
To wear:: To wear:: To wear::
@WovenIntent ‘s Custom Cardigan
I absolutely love one-of-a-kind garments. These garments are custom fit to YOUR body in your preference of color and design.
To gift & To get To gift & To
@Keyslovejewelry
get
To gift & To get
2860 Middle Country Road, Lake Grove
I love Charm Bar Jewelery! I especially love how additional charms can be added and present the perfect suggestion for the next gift-giving holiday.
Beauty Beauty Beauty
@praktibeauty available at @Credobeauty & @goop
Prakti Beauty’s DeviDetox Purifying Face Cleanser is a hydrating cleanser that has helped transform my less than perfect kin in to clear and radiant skin.
Place to eat: Place to eat: Place to eat:
@Sweejanecocktailbar
64 E. Main, Bayshore
Croque Madame: a classic french cafe meal, I prefer mine without the grilled ham, the grilled Gruyere cheese, served on the brioche bread, topped with bechamel sauce and a soft fried egg are the right amount of flavor combination for me.
Coffee Coffee
@milanobeancafe
6 E. Main Street, Bayshore
Pumpkin Patch Latte, made the most artistic way.
Cocktail Cocktail Cocktail
@Bar Clementine
553 Main Street, Islip
The Clementine Cocktail: Clementine Vodka, Aperol, Vanilla Syrup, Clemintine Juice, Lime Juice, Egg White
