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Your Home. Center Stage. September marks opening night for the fall market. As the summer curtain closes, a fresh season of opportunity takes center stage. Whether you’re ready to debut your home to motivated buyers or set the scene for your own next move, let’s direct a strategy built for a standing ovation.
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CONTRIBUTORS GABRIELLA COS
Aurora Balerdi, MD William Tyler Smith, MD
We knew our star editorial intern would do a fabulous job with a fashion assignment. “Reshaping the Industry” (page 50) takes a look at local designers making signature marks. Gabriella Cos, a rising senior at Bryant University majoring in digital communication with a concentration in marketing , also contributes to the monthly must-do’s and has written several Rhody Gems.
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EMILY HOMONOFF Operating a small farm has its struggles and rewards, which writer Emily Homonoff explores in this month’s feature, “A Growth Industr y” ( page 59). A Rhode Island native and founder of Little Lion Creative, when she’s not building brands, you can find Homonoff at the mahjong table or on an adventure with her dogs; she is also the co -creator of RI’s original author series, The Cardigan Connection.
September 19, 2026
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BRITT MACHADO Britt Machado is the force behind JohnnyCakes, an award-winning interior design studio and retail shop. Each month, she searches the state to assemble cool finds to feature on the Shop page. With the onset of fall, she provides inspiration for show-stopping wardrobe looks from around the state. Visit Machado’s shop next time you’re on Broadway and don’t forget to ask about the line of signature Squiggle goods.
EMILY OLSON
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In “Walk on the Wild Side” (page 16), Emily Olson reports on Land Trust Days, the two-month celebration put on by the Rhode Island Land Trust Council. For over 20 years, the award-winning journalist has been writing about lifestyle, environmental, and social justice topics. In her downtime, she enjoys exploring the Ocean State with her kids.
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CONTENTS
The Scoop 9 EDUCATION: Setting the tone for school days
14 ARTS: Meet the newest characters at Ninigret Park
16 LAND TRUST: Experience Rhode Island’s public spaces 20 RHODY PETS: Adoptable pets of the month 22 OCEAN STATE MEDIA: Keeping an eye on sharks in local waters
24 RHODY GEM: Art and cool finds inside a Coventry mill building
26 CALENDAR: This month’s must-do’s
Home & Style 45 HOME: A designer reimagines a
29
Photo by Sarah Petrarca
Cover Story: Hello, Outside Ways to reconnect with nature across Rhode Island
townhouse into a grand dame
48 SHOP: Stylish finds for September 50 FASHION: Meet local designers reshaping apparel
54 DECOR: Shell-seeking simplified at Wickford in-store pop-up
Feature 59 A Growth Industry: The challenge of running a small farm in Rhode Island
Food & Drink
14
Photo courtesy of South County Tourism Council
16
Photo courtesy of RI Land Trust
69 EXPERIENCE: A Charlestown eatery lives up to its lore
72 DAY TRIP: Biking and eating your way around Block Island 76 RECIPE: Use the season’s abundance in a savory soup
78 ROUND-UP: Eight places to soak up “local’s summer”
80 SOUTH COUNTY SCENES
72
Photo by Nick DelGiudice
ON THE COVER: Lewis-Dickens Farm Wildlife Refuge on Block Island. Photo by Jason Major courtesy of Audubon Society of Rhode Island. SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
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76 Battery Lane, Jamestown $5,475,000 Water front on 5.4 Acres Christina Ardente 401.338.3520
75 Macomber Lane, Portsmouth $2,895,000 Beach Access & Moorings Sarah Kirwin Brady 401.338.9881
33 Withington Road, Narragansett $2,450,000 Bonnet Shores Retreat Anita Langer 401.323.3224
176-B Browning St, South Kingstown $1,798,000 Ward’s Pasture, Green Hill Cecile Cohen 401.782.5324
11 Kendall Court, Charlestown $1,150,000 Village Farm 3-Bed Christine Holden 401.743.2858
178 Preservation Way, South Kingstown $899,900 South County Commons J. Feeney & T. Lombari 401.529.4111
54 Vespia Lane, South Kingstown $739,000 Village at Cur tis Corner Robin Tregenza 203.246.6899
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SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
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E d u c a t i o n | A r t | L a n d Tr u s t | R h o d y P e t s | O c e a n S t a te M e d i a | R h o d y G e m | C a l e n d a r
Routine Reset Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock
Educators share strategies for transitioning from summer to school
By Jenna Kaplan
A
s the new school year gets underway, families are settling into the familiar rhythm of early morning wake-ups, overstuffed backpacks, nightly homework, and busy schedules. While the first bell has already rung , the transition from summer’s unstructured days can take time. Whether you’re guiding a wide-eyed kindergartener or supporting a senior through their final year, thoughtful habits at home can make the adjustment smoother. From reinforcing routines to nurturing emotional readiness, these practical tips can help set the tone for a confident, successful academic year.
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
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2026/2027 SCHOOL CALENDAR From the first day to the last and every holiday and break in between, find it all at the Rhode Island Department of Education website at RIDE.RI.gov
First-day nerves often stem from the unknown, which is why familiarity is a powerful tool Attend school orientations or open houses, if available. Walk through hallways, peek into classrooms, and point out key locations like the cafeteria, nurse’s office, and bathrooms. Even brief visits help kids form a mental map and ease anxiety. If no formal visit is offered, check the school’s website for photos or a virtual tour. Talk through what the day might look like, from drop-off routines to lunch breaks, and reinforce who they can turn to for help.
routines. Summer’s flexible schedules often stretch bedtimes and blur mealtimes, but experts agree : structure gives kids a sense of security and confidence. A solid sleep pattern can improve focus, mood, and memor y, key components for a successful start. Extend structure to morning and evening rituals. A few full run-throughs the week before school, including alarms and getting out the door, help reduce morning meltdowns and boost confidence. Keep things relaxed. The goal is comfort, not perfection.
Re h e a r s e t h e Ro u t i n e
B u i l d I n d e p e n d e n ce
One of the most effective ways to ease back into school life is to re-establish school day
Back-to-school prep isn’t just about supply runs. It’s also about helping kids manage daily
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tasks with confidence. Age-appropriate chores, such as feeding the dog or setting the table, foster time management and a sense of responsibility that carries over to the classroom. Let your child help pack their lunch, choose their outfit, or prepare their school bag. It might take longer, and you may need to negotiate whether pajama pants count as real clothes, but the process builds self-reliance. Encourage younger children to practice tying their shoes, zipping coats, and opening snack containers. These small skills reduce stress during the school day. Older children benefit from a dedicated homework space stocked with essentials and maybe a fun personal touch, like a favorite photo or novelty pencil holder.
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock
C re a te C a l m
8194 Post Road, North Kingstown, RI | 401.294.4494 | www.wickfordkandb.com SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
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TIP: Consider joining the PTA at all levels of schooling to better understand your child’s school community
G i ve C h o i ce s Choosing your own school supplies can be a surprisingly powerful experience. For many kids, back-to-school shopping isn’t just about ticking items off a list; it’s a chance to feel capable, independent, and ready for what’s ahead. Whether it’s a glittery water bottle, a new backpack, or the perfect highlighter set, letting your child take the lead on small decisions can help them feel more prepared and excited for the year ahead. A first-day outfit, no matter how simple, can also work wonders. It’s not about brands. It’s about helping your child feel like they’re stepping into something new with style and self-assurance.
It’s important to get kids involved in back to school shopping
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The foundation for a smooth school day begins at home, especially with sleep, nutrition, and screen-time habits. Breakfast doesn’t need to be fancy. A banana, toast with peanut butter, or a smoothie can provide lasting energ y. Children who eat breakfast are more likely to stay focused and avoid mid-morning fatigue. Ease back into screen-time limits gradually. Try capping device use at around two hours a day. Turning off screens an hour before bed can help reset sleep patterns. Consider swapping screens
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photos courtesy of Adobe Stock
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for calming nighttime rituals like reading or prepping lunch together. Hydration is often overlooked, so a reusable water bottle that follows your child from the classroom to after-school activities supports both focus and well-being. A consistent bedtime routine with simple cues, such as bath time or quiet reading , can make mornings less chaotic and more intentional.
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B e a G o o d L i s te n e r Big transitions bring big emotions. In the weeks leading up to school, create space for low-pressure conversations. Ask what your child is excited or nervous about, and reassure them that their feelings are valid. “You don’t need all the answers,” says Ann Gallagher, a speech-language pathologist in the Woonsocket Education Department. “Just being available to listen and observe can make a big difference.” For younger children, roleplay common scenarios like asking for help or greeting a new friend. Older kids might benefit from journaling or creating simple goals for the school year. These conversations strengthen the parent-child connection and promote emotional readiness.
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
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Picture Yourself with Rabbitwoman and Dogman To urism co unc i l co nt i n u e s i t s m i s s i o n o f br in g in g p h otog en ic p u b lic a r t to Sou th Cou nty By Ken Abrams
A
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Paparazzi Dogman has taken up residence at Ninigret Park
have helped transform Ninigret Park into one of Rhode Island’s most distinctive cultural destinations. Nearby attractions include a striking moongate, a stone serpent that winds in and out of the sand, and two giant trolls, Erik Rock and Greta Granit, created by internationally known Danish recycling artist Thomas Dambo. Rabbitwoman and Dogman will soon have company, says Faye Pantazopoulos, creative director of the South County Tourism Council. Three additional monumental bronze sculptures depicting endangered animals are
expected to arrive later this fall. Together, the pieces will form part of Gillie and Marc’s internationally recognized conservation project, A Wild Race Against Time, an initiative that uses art to draw attention to vulnerable animal species and the urgency of protecting them. Pantazopoulos says the public art drives tourism in the region, filling hotel rooms during the summer peak and off-season. “ We see our hotel bookings go up in conjunction with the spike in visits to the park. We know people are coming , staying , and visiting the park to view the attractions there.”
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photos courtesy of South County Tourism Council
pair of unusual visitors has taken up residence at Ninigret Park in Charlestown, part of an international art project that brings an important conser vation message to South County. Paparazzi Rabbitwoman and Dogman, two interactive bronze sculptures by acclaimed British and Australian couple Gillie and Marc Schattner, have been installed at what was once an airfield. The sculptures mark the first stage of Animal Avenue, a new outdoor art experience that combines imaginative public art with a call to protect endangered wildlife. Gillie and Marc are best known for their human-animal hybrid characters Rabbitwoman and Dogman, which have appeared in sculptures and exhibitions around the world. Inspired in part by the artists’ own relationship, the characters represent love, acceptance, diversity, and compassion. Unlike artwork displayed behind museum ropes, the sculptures are designed to be approached and enjoyed. Visitors are encouraged to pose with Rabbitwoman and Dogman and take photographs, and become part of the installation. “South County has always been known for its spectacular beaches, outdoor recreation, and natural beauty,” says Louise Bishop, president of the South County Tourism Council, and the visionary who founded that other free art installation, Rhode Island’s Troll Trail. “ With the addition of Gillie and Marc’s extraordinary sculptures, we’re creating another compelling reason for visitors to come to our region.” She adds that public art can inspire visitors, encourage conversation, and create memorable experiences. The Council worked with the Town of Charlestown to bring the sculptures to Ninigret Park, a partnership she credits with making the installation possible. Titled “Animal Avenue,” the statues join a growing collection of outdoor artworks that
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The arrival of Animal Avenue expands South County’s growing reputation as a destination for public art while complementing the region’s beaches, forests, trails, farms, and recreational attractions. The project is also part of the Council’s effort to encourage year-round visitation, including beyond the traditional summer season. For now, visitors can meet Rabbitwoman and Dogman, explore Ninigret Park’s other sculptures, and get an early look at an attraction that will continue to draw visitors to the state. Learn more at SouthCountyRI.com.
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Freshly ground local blends from Rhode Island coffee roasters. standardsjamestown.com
S U P P O R T L O C A L FA R M S PHOTO: 8 ROD FARM - TIVERTON, RI
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Walk on the Wild Side Find yo ur t ra i l du r i n g La n d Tr u st D ays By Emily Olson
W
hen you’re sitting in rushhour bridge traffic, Rhode Island’s exquisite beauty can be easy to overlook. But the scener y that has become commonplace to those of us who live here is the stuff of dream vacations for visitors. For the past
15 years, the Rhode Island Land Trust Council (RILTC) has hosted Land Trust Days, an annual two -month-long celebration designed to make us locals look up, step outside, and remember just how lucky we are. The annual two-month celebration, which runs through October 25, offers more than 100
opportunities to explore Rhode Island’s protected landscapes. Many events are free, though some require advance registration. Participants can join guided hikes and river paddles, fly kites on the beach, arrange flowers, make s’mores by a bonfire, and take part in other experiences inspired by the character of each property.
Photo courtesy of Rhode Island Land Trust Council
Land Trust Days offer over 100 opportunites to get outside and enjoy the state’s resources
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SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
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The Council, which supports the state’s network of more than 50 land trusts, compiles the independently organized events into a single calendar. Over the past 15 years, Land Trust Days has grown from a handful of outings into a much-anticipated seasonal pro gram. “ We started with just a few events,” says Virginia Streeter, Council program coordinator. “And last year there were more than 120.” This year’s calendar highlights events that stretch from one corner of the state to the other. Streeter is especially excited about the
Guided fungal forays are among popular Land Trust Days activities
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Watch Hill Conser vancy’s g uided walks, including one exploring the histor y of Watch Hill Point, the southwesternmost point of mainland Rhode Island. Other popular programs include those hosted by the Aquidneck Land Trust and the Audubon Society of Rhode Island. Audubon’s family-friendly Raptor Weekend, September 12-13, features programming centered on owls, hawks, and falcons. For those who prefer to think of their nature walks as quests, Land Trust Days provides an
opportunity to participate in the Rhode Island Walks Challenge, a scavenger hunt that sends walkers to 34 trails around the state, where small metal sculptures created by Greg Rebis, an artist at The Steel Yard in Providence, are hidden along the routes. Each sculpture of a nature-based creature bears a QR code participants can scan as they work toward finding all of the sculptures and earning prizes. “ We encourage all land trusts that are home to one of these creatures to host a nature walk during Land Trust Days,” Streeter says.
Participate in guided walks and hikes by day or by moonlight
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
As Rhode Island’s long summer days slowly slide into fall, Land Trust Days ser ve as an opportunity for people to get outside. Whether the goal is sharing a cold brew among friends and falcons, paddling down a picturesque river, uncovering a lo cally made metal treasure, or simply exploring something new, there is plenty of the Ocean State to discover. Find the full Land Trust Days calendar at Meetup.com/Rhode-Island-Land-Trust-Days.
Most Land Trust Days activities are free, although a few carry admission fees or suggested donations. In addition, some programs have limited capacity and require advance registration, so participants are encouraged to review individual listings before heading out. Organizers also recommend wearing sturdy footwear, dressing for changing weather, and bringing water, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
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Just 2 Miles from Charlestown Beach Photos courtesy of Rhode Island Land Trust Council
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
4115 Old Post Road • Charlestown, RI 02813 www.thegeneralstantoninn.com Hey Rhody MEDIA CO.
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Rhody Pets of the Month By Karen Kalunian
L
ooking to welcome a new furr y friend into your home ? Adopt, don’t shop! Shelters across the Ocean State have dogs and cats ready to find their forever homes. Here are some sweet faces ready to meet you, or reach out to local shelters to learn about even more adoptees. If you are considering adopting or know of an animal in need, please contact Karen Kalunian directly at animaltalk1920@gmail.com.
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Jolina
TITTEN
JOLINA
BREED: Domestic Long Hair AGE: 1 year GENDER : Female
BREED: Mixed - Medium AGE: 11 months GENDER : Female
Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest kitty of them all? Meet Titten, a gorgeous blackand-white domestic long-hair beauty. She loves spending her days lounging in her cat bed and will seek out a sunny spot in your home. Titten is feline leukemia virus positive so a home with another friendly, playful FeLV+ cat would work best. She is searching for a home with patience and a willingness to let her blossom on her own terms, continuing to build her confidence.
Jolina’s beauty is captivating , and her story will steal your heart. Jolina was born deaf, but that has not stopped her from being a great pup. She loves people, other playful dogs, and just wants to be like all the rest. In fact, she would do best with a doggie friend in her new home, one that can show her the ropes. So, if you’ve ever thought about helping a special pup in need, please contact the Rescue and tell them you’d love to meet Jolina.
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Photo (L) courtesy of Ten Lives Cat Rescue
Titten
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BREED: Mixed AGE: 2 years GENDER : Male Jax, aka “Mr. Personality,” loves everybody and is as handsome as can be. His coat is a unique, light brindle, and his big smile never stops. Mixed to perfection, Jax would love to spend his life in a friendly home – taking walks, playing fetch, and just hanging out together. He is not a fan of kittens, so keep that in mind, but he might like to have a doggie friend. Jax is waiting to light up your world with love and laughter. NORTH KINGSTOWN ANIMAL SHELTER
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Dogtopia of Warwick 30 Jefferson Blvd, Warwick, RI 02888 dogtopia.com/warwick | 401.903.4900 Hey Rhody MEDIA CO.
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Rare Hammerhead Encounter Makes Waves off Rhode Island The At l a nt i c S ha r k I n st i t u te p l a ce d a d at a -g ath er in g ta g on a h a mmer h ea d sh a r k for th e fi rst ti me In Partnership with Ocean State Media • OceanStateMedia.org • By Luis Hernandez
T
he Atlantic Shark Institute recently announced that its researchers, for the first time, placed a data-gathering tag on a hammerhead shark. Video of the encounter, which happened in July in waters off Block Island, went viral. It was captured by filmmaker To mas Koeck, who was filming for the docuseries Ocean State : Rhode Island’s Wild Coast. Koeck has described the series as a love letter to the state’s marine life. Koeck and Atlantic Shark Institute executive director Jon Dodd sat down with Ocean State Media morning host Luis Hernandez to discuss the episode, which contains some exciting new content.
ON THE CHANGES IN SHARK SPECIES BEING SEEN IN RHODE ISL AND WATER S: Dodd: Blue sharks were the sharks that Rhode Islanders caught forever. You could go out and catch a blue shark all throughout the summer. We’re not seeing that anymore. They don’t like
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the water temperatures here in the summer. They prefer to be up in northern Massachusetts, Maine, and Canada. I’ve watched that, and we’ve got data. I’ve tagged over 1,000 sharks. I’ve caught a ton of them. So I literally can look at the data, and as these water temperatures increase, we’re seeing the sharks that love to be here – they don’t love to be here as much anymore. What’s coming in their place, we’re seeing a lot of sandbar sharks. We’re seeing spinner sharks, blacktip sharks. They’ve always been associated with Florida, really warm waters, and these last few years they’re just showing up with greater (frequency) ... Most sharks are cold-blooded. They have to be in water that they really enjoy, water temperatures that they can really optimize themselves in, and we’re just seeing more and more of that every year. ON FILMING THE TAGGING OF SHARK S: Tomas Koeck: When you’re filming these scenarios, I’m basically trying to be a ghost on the boat. I don’t want to get in the way of the
tagging. It’s chaos. There’s stuff everywhere. People are trying to wrangle this shark. The shark’s maybe swimming in a way that’s not very convenient for the taggers and getting the shark alongside the boat. So I’m doing my best to stay out of everyone’s way, but also get the shot that we need to get. We’re also trying to get different angles, so sometimes while John is tagging a shark, we’re putting the drone up and getting totally vertically down. Other times, we’re getting right in the water or next to the water. We’re using a pole cam to film in the water. Generally, I will get in the water with sharks, but when John’s tagging a shark, it’s very dangerous because of the fishing line, not because of the shark itself. So we’ll use pole cams attached to Ikelite housings with Canon cameras; cinema-grade cameras. We’re just lowering them into the water and filming them that way, and then we also have topside stuff, too, trying to get different angles, different reactions, and again, trying to stay out of everyone’s way because in the end, I don’t want to disrupt the actual research being done. SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photo by Tomas Koeck/Silent Flight Studios, courtesy of Ocean State Media
ON TAGGING A HAMMERHE AD SHARK NE AR BLOCK ISL AND: Jon Dodd: It was a really exciting find for us. It was a wonderful day and good for science, and it will help us answer some questions. The video that Tomas got, which is spectacular and has gone viral; that’s actually a scalloped hammerhead, and it’s extremely rare for these waters. It’s actually an endangered shark. So that was really spectacular. We were super excited when we zoomed in on that video and said, “Son of a gun, this isn’t a smooth hammerhead. This is a scalloped.” We were chasing these sharks a little bit because they’re super finicky, trying to get them on a hook. Tomas was videoing some beautiful whale footage – and we ran into a couple of sharks, and this guy happened to swim by. We chased it down, and we presented a bait in a particular way, and lo and behold, it took it, and we were able to get it to the boat, and (conduct) measurements, and get a sex on it, and take some other data down, and get a tag in it, and send her on her way.
Researchers place a data-gathering tag on a hammerhead shark off the coast of Block Island
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Dodd: Having Tomas on the boat these last few years has been really spectacular, and I mean that truly because we’re always so busy with what we’re doing and what we’re tr ying to get done. I mean, when we have a shark on the line, we don’t know exactly what species it is, so depending upon the species, the size, the sex, we have different protocols. We also have different tags that we may be deploying. We’re not putting the same tag on ever y shark, ever y species, even ever y size. There’s a lot going on, so we’ve never really taken the time to say, “Hey, who’s going to photograph us ?” “ Who’s go ing to video what we’re doing ?” So with To mas, it’s awesome because we look at some of these things he’s captured ; we’d never capture them, and it allows people to kind of see what we’re doing. ON DOCUMENTING RHODE ISL AND’S BIODIVER SIT Y: Koeck: I think a lot of people are surprised about what’s around Rhode Island. When you show people how amazing the wildlife is around here, and also the variety that you get here, people get ver y excited because all of a sudden you’re taking , basically, what they thought was only in the tropics, plopping it right here off the Rhode Island coast, so people want to go out and explore. But people are also interested. They’re interested in the science, and they want to get to know it more. So my goal with this series is I want people to see that you don’t need to grab a mask and snorkel and go far. You can just jump right in right off the beach on a nice, calm, clear day, and you might see some things that surprise you.
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Episodes of Ocean State: Rhode Island’s Wild Coast will air throughout the year on Ocean State Media and stream on PBS Passport. This article was originally posted on July 30, 2026. Luis Hernandez can be reached at lhernandez@oceanstatemedia.org. SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
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Alchemy House Vi ntag e sho p and design studio What it is: A retail space and studio filled with art and cool acquisitions.
W h e re to f i n d i t : Alchemy House is located inside The Mill on Coventr y’s South Main Street, a two -stor y red brick building with a black awning displaying the address.
W h a t m a k e s i t a R h o d y G e m? Inside Alchemy House, shoppers will discover unique treasures like a handcrafted bag adorned with pearls and seashells, an original painting set in an antique car ved frame, or a striking dress. Since its opening in June, artist and owner Maggie Mae has brought a special kind of alchemy to a formerly empty mill space, quickly establishing a reputation as a must-visit retail destination for excellent finds. What started as a passion project centered on restoring and reimagining pre-loved fashion and furniture has morphed into an eclectic shop filled with handpicked items ranging from mid-centur y furniture and art books to vintage clothing , creating a space that feels like a living , breathing entity where ever y item enhances the collective aesthetic. “ There is a little bit of magic hidden in ever y corner,” notes Mae, who introduces exclusive new original artwork and one-ofa-kind pieces ever y month.
1 South Main Street, Coventry Hours by appointment AlchemyHouseRI.com Instagram: @alchemyhouse.ri
Every neighborhood has that secret, hidden, cool, unusual, or hole-in-the-wall spot that locals love. We’re on the hunt for Rhody Gems! Email Marketing@HeyRhody.com to suggest yours, and we just might feature it!
Photo courtesy of Alchemy House
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The Must List 10 essential events this month
September 19: Embrace the season at the Fall Festival & Outdoor Craft Market. Enjoy fresh fall treats and drinks while shopping a variety of local craft vendors on the idyllic grounds of Fayerweather House. Kingston, FayerweatherCraftGuild.com September 19: Local restaurants and chefs The Rhythm and Roots Festival includes three music stages and a kid’s tent
September 4-6: The annual Rhythm and Roots Festival is an exciting weekend of live music at Ninigret Park, with stellar bands including Tower of Power, Roomful of Blues, Margo Price, and the Preser vation Hall Jazz Band. Charlestown, RhythmAndRoots.com
compete for the Calamari Trophy at the ninth annual Rhode Island Calamari Festival and Cook-Off at Veterans Park across from Narragansett Beach and next to The Towers. Narragansett, NarragansettCOC.com
September 25: Shop the Juicy Market at Sons of Liberty, a curated outdoor experience featuring Rhode Island–made goods, artisan vendors, and small businesses, making for a perfect night of shopping , sipping , and community. South Kingstown, DrinkSOL.com
a heartwarming tribute to the lives and music of Carole King and James Taylor, featuring favorites “Fire and Rain,” “Beautiful,” “Sweet Baby James,” and “I Feel the Earth Move.” Matunuck, TheatreByTheSea.com
Museum for the 40th Annual Folk Art Quilt Show. Admire handcrafted quilts created by talented artisans and celebrate the creativity and craftsmanship behind this enduring tradition. Narragansett, SouthCountyMuseum.org
September 26: Leyden’s Vineyard’s annual Steak & Cigar Dinner includes three cigars from J’s Cigar Lounge in Coventry, a bold selection of Leyden’s wines, and a delicious steak dinner with all the fixings, set under the stars. West Greenwich, LeydenFarm.com
September 6: The Fixx, legendar y voice of
September 11-20: Discover the magic of unexpected romance in the quirky town of Almost, Maine, in a charming play that weaves together humor, tenderness, and plot twists through a series of whimsical and heartwarming vignettes. Westerly, GraniteTheatre.org
September 27: Intention Fest is a free festival celebrating wellness and peace, featuring massage, energ y work, mental health counselors, herbal medicine, meditation, and a song circle at Ninigret Park. Charlestown, IntentionFest.info
September 1-13: You’ve Still Got a Friend is
The Zombies Colin Blunstone, and Peter Asher of Peter and Gordon join forces for a memorable Brit-Rock Concert that transcends generations. Westerly, UnitedTheatre.org
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September 11-13: Head to the South County
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
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Hello, Outside Ways to reconnect with the natural world around you
The Meadow Trail for pollinators at Norman Bird Sanctuary in Middletown, ends with ocean views
By Elyse Major
P
Photo courtesy of Norman Bird Sanctuary
ut the phone away, we’re going outside! There’s change in the air, and it’s not just the onset of autumn. People ever ywhere are getting fatig ued with the infinite scroll that’s taking over daily life. While Gen X reminisces about the corded kitchen phone, Gen Z can only imagine a society before devices by watching streaming series nostalgic about the 1990s. For many of us, being told to “touch grass” isn’t enough; we need something to do! Here are a dozen activities sure to lure you outside. Group activities easily done solo, and solo activities that can be merrier with more, it’s all here and then some. Mute your phone, it’s time for recess.
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Volunteer at a farm
The first Sunday of each month, the groovy gang at Revive the Roots invites the community to Volunteer Day. Don your closedtoe shoes, comf y clothes, and willing attitude, to roll up your sleeves and pitch in. Care for the garden, tend to the farm, and tackle seasonal to -dos. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or newbie, ever yone is welcome, no experience needed. Revive pro vides the tools, g uidance, good company, and a community meal at the end! Smithfield, Instagram: @revivetheroots
Pitch in at Revive the Roots, Smithfield
Mushrooming, owling, and elegant dining
Join Audubon naturalists at the Maxwell Mays Wildlife Refuge on September 18 for an exclusive evening of mushrooming , birding , and fireside dining. Enjoy a guided walk, sunset wine on the deck, or a canoe ride on Carr’s Pond. The evening caps with an elegant dinner, a live owl presentation during dessert, and an owl-spotting stroll back to your vehicle. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a flashlight. This limited event accommodates only eight people. Coventry, ASRI.org
Explore a wildlife sanctuary
Wednesday afternoons at Norman Bird Sanctuar y mean it’s nature walk day. This free public program requires no registration, and meets outside the Welcome Center 10 minutes prior to the walk. In the event of inclement weather, an announcement will be made on the website that day determining whether the walk will continue or not. 3:30-4:15pm. Middletown, NormanBirdSanctuary.org Photo courtesy of Revive the Roots
Mushrooming before dinner at Maxwell Mays Wildlife Refuge, Coventry
Photo courtesy of ASRI
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Photo courtesy of Norman Bird Sanctuary
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Forage for edible and medicinal plants
Photo courtesy of Maggie Hatzpanian
Join herbalist Maggie Hatzpanian on September 29 for an informative trek along the wild edges of the Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium grounds. With over 20 years of experience, Hatzpanian will guide attendees through plant identification, habitat, and the distinction between native and invasive species. Learn about medicinal applications of various plants and, if feeling adventurous, discover which are edible. Bristol, ASRI.org
Go birding
Its offshore location and many protected areas make Block Island a natural resting and feeding area for a host of migratory birds. Sail away to seek a variety of songbirds, shorebirds, and birds of prey. Areas of note include Clay Head Preserve, Lewis-Dickens Farm, and the Block Island National Wildlife Refuge. Note that many shops and eateries remain open through Columbus Day. Ferry departs from Newport or Point Judith, BlockIslandFerry.com
Be a happy camper
No tent, no problem. Both Burlingame State Campground in Charlestown and George Washington State Campground in Chepachet have cabins that can be reserved. These are essentially no-frills sheds but there are bunk beds with boards for the base. For gear, do a little research to figure out what you need for one night before spending a lot of money in case it turns out the overnight adventure is not your cup of tea. Check your local library to see if they offer a Library of Things with items you can borrow with your valid library card – like a hiking pack from West Warwick Public Library, a birdwatching kit from Barrington Public Library, or fishing poles for a small fee from Greenville Library in Smithfield. Camping season ends during or at the end of October for most campgrounds. RIParks.RI.gov
Side-eye from a peregrine falcon spotted on Block Island
Photo by Peter Green
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Photo by Sarah Petrarca, courtesy of RI Parks
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Go on a full moon bike ride
Full Moon Rides with Bike Newport
Head to Newport for a ride beneath the glow of the full Corn Moon on September 26. The 15mile route will take riders on scenic roads and coastline, around the Ocean Loop, along Bellevue, and back into town. The pace is patient so nobody gets left behind, and participants are welcome to finish their journey with food and libations together. Rides have limited capacity, so be sure to register. BikeNewportRI.org
Fall in love with boating
Feel like an old salt with a day of fishing aboard the Frances Fleet. Novices and experienced anglers alike are welcome, and the crew is ready to give instructions to anyone who wants or needs assistance. Rods are available for rent or you can bring your own, and bait is supplied free of charge: Narragansett, FrancesFleet.com. For those who prefer a more relaxing day on the water, options abound, whether it’s learning about local lore while passing lighthouses and islands on the Rhode Island Lighthouse and Newport Harbor Tour (FastFerry.com), jaunts departing from Jamestown, Newport, or Wickford (CruiseRI.com), Gansett Cruises (GansettCruises.com), or Sightsailing of Newport (SightSailing.com).
Photo courtesy of Bike Newport Photo courtesy of Kinney Azalea Gardens
Learn to paint outdoors
Ever walk by an artist with their easel set up in a scenic locale? The often-used French term is en plein air, which simply means painting outside. While you can do this all on your own, if you’d like instruction, camaraderie, and sometimes supplies, workshops are offered around the state. Whet your interest at Portsmouth Art Guild, with its schedule of September offerings at Sapowet Marsh, Tiverton; Sachuest Point, Middletown; Rocky Brook Orchard, Middletown; and the Narrows in Bristol (PortsmouthArts.org). September 22, 23, 24, the South Kingstown Land Trust hosts Plein Air Painting with Trish Hurley, South Kingstown: SKLT.org, and check for upcoming programs at botanical centers and arts organizations including Kinney Azalea Garden, Kingston; Blithewold, Bristol; and Newport Mansions, Newport, among others.
Ongoing outdoor programs at Kinney Azalea Gardens, Kingston
Newport Harbor views by boat
Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock Photo courtesy of Portsmouth Art Guild
Outdoor painting at East Bay locations led by Portsmouth Art Guild artists Hey Rhody MEDIA CO.
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Walk, listen, and get crafty
An Insect Orchestra soloist, 15 Minute Field Trip with WRWC, Johnston
Join the Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council ( WRWC) and 15 Minute Field Trips for the family-friendly Insect Orchestra g uided walk on September 26 (2-3:30pm) along the Woonasquatucket River Greenway. Learn how insects make music and create your own musical instrument to take home. Walks are monthly and take place Saturdays from 2-3:30pm (with a few exceptions). Johnston, WRWC.org
Learn how to hunt deer
Photo (top) courtesy of WRWC, (bottom L) by Nick DelGiudice, (bottom R) courtesy of Adobe Stock
With limited natural predators, many deer populations are running wild. In areas with an overabundance of deer, forests can become damaged, leading to a degraded habitat for other wildlife. Whether you’re new to hunting or looking to build confidence before your first season, this beginner-friendly workshop covers the fundamentals of deer hunting. Participants will learn about local regulations, scouting techniques, gear selection, safe firearm handling, and ethical hunting practices. Led by experienced hunters and educators, this workshop is designed to give you the knowledge and tools you need to get started in the field. Harrisville, DEM.RI.gov. For any questions, including licensing locations, please contact Maddie Proulx at madison.proulx@dem.ri.gov.
Always don blaze orange when hunting in the woods
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Dec. 17-27
Live the dream!
Dance on The Vets stage alongside Ballet RI company artists! Auditions for The Nutcracker children’s cast are being held September 19th & 26th . Scan the QR code for more information & to register!
TICKETS ON SALE NOW! THEVETSRI.COM
Go fish
Explore the art of angling amidst meticulously maintained fishing ponds at the Preser ve Sporting Club & Resort. With a thriving population of trout and bass, individuals or families can create lasting memories during countless afternoons of outdoor fishing. Lessons and equipment are accessible upon request, ensuring a fulfilling 90-minute experience that runs from through November 1. Richmond, ThePreserveRI.com
Make like a tree and stretch
Learn to fish at The Preserve, Richmond
Yoga at Rockbriar Farm, Charlestown
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Photo (top) courtesy of The Preserve, (bottom) courtesy of Rockbriar Farm
That’s the tree pose, actually. Experts agree that yoga offers physical and mental benefits for all ages. Slow movements warm up muscles, deep breathing increases blood flow, and holding a pose can build strength. Many instructors are taking the practice outside and you can sign-up for classes in a garden (Rockbriar Farm, Charlestown; RockbriarFarm.com), on a farm alongside goats (Gather Farm, Johnston; GatherFarm.com; Simmons Farm, Middletown; SimmonsOrganicFarmRI.com), beside a bunch of barnyard animals at Dragonfly Yoga and Wellness (Chaos Farm, Lincoln; Eventbrite.com), or out in lavender field – which may or may not include a camel sighting – at Lavender Waves Farm, Wakefield, led by Kay Bee (LavenderWavesFarm.com).
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Farm Animal Experiences 10 places to meet animal friends and soak up the sunshine across Whether you’re bringing the kids or channeling your inner child, now’s the ideal moment to head outside, support local farms, and make some furr y (and feather y) new friends. 1. ALEX AND ANI FARMYARD AT ROGER WILLIAMS PARK ZOO: A city favorite, this hands-on exhibit blends learning with fun. Feed and pet alpacas, goats, sheep, and chickens while exploring the agricultural heart of the zoo. Providence
Cuddling Bean at Serendipity Farm, Coventry
2. CLARK FARMS: This South County staple offers more than fresh air and open space – it’s home to a lovable barnyard crew. At the petting zoo, you’ll meet donkeys, goats, and a friendly cow that rounds out the gang. With a laid-back vibe, it’s a family-friendly spot where visitors of all ages can connect with animals in a warm, welcoming setting. Matunuck 3. THE FANTASTIC UMBRELLA FACTORY: Part garden center, part curiosity shop, and part animal haven, this longtime Charlestown favorite lets guests feed chickens and greet George the emu. With new goats joining the quirky crew, it’s an offbeat, artsy adventure not to miss. Charlestown
5. GATHER FARM: This charming, familyrun farm is all about goats – and not just for petting. Along with seasonal events and feeding sessions, Gather Farm hosts goat yoga and goat hikes, where you can stroll scenic trails with a friendly herd in tow. It’s equal parts peaceful and delightfully ridiculous. Johnston
7. PEZZA FARM: Generations of families have made Pezza Farm a go -to for animal fun. From miniature horses to turkeys, each animal brings big personality. The low-cost entr y fee includes feed, making it a budget-friendly destination for daily hands-on encounters. Johnston
9. SERENDIPITY FARM: A visit to Serendipity Farm means one thing : calf cuddles. Book a private 30-minute session (for g uests ages 5 and up) and spend quality time with their newest arrivals. It’s a cozy, moo -velous way to welcome the season. Coventry
6. MANFREDI FARM: Tucked in the coastal town of Westerly, Manfredi Farm gathers Scottish Highland cows, donkeys, ducks, geese, goats, and more in a workingfarm setting. It’s a serene spot to meet a mix of barnyard animals and snap some rustic, postcard-worthy photos. Westerly
8. RUSTY BUCKLE PETTING ZOO & PONY RIDES: Famous for its baby goat cuddle events, this mobile petting zoo delivers serious serotonin. Meet donkeys, horses, chickens, and, of course, those snuggly goats. Events rotate, so check the website for the latest lineup. Statewide
10. XEN’S CRITTERS: This homegrown menagerie features a rotating cast of rescued and adopted animals. While visits are typically by appointment or part of local events, Xen’s Critters is a heartwarming example of farm love and animal care in motion. North Scituate –Jenna Kaplan
Photo courtesy of Jenna Kaplan
4. FESTIVAL FARM: A quirky countryside gem, Festival Farm invites guests to feed and pet a wide cast of characters – from alpacas and pygmy goats to emus and mini-donkeys. The petting zoo is open daily with no admission fee, and the country store is full of local charm. Hope Valley
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139 Jefferson Blvd, Warwick, RI SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
HOME & STYLE H o m e | M a ke r | S h o p | E n te r t a i n i n g
The parlor sets the tone for the home and first introduces visitors to Miss Hudson. “I wanted it to feel elegant and almost ceremonial,” says designer Bouley
Victorian Lady Photos by Liz Daly Photography, courtesy of Lindsey Dana Interiors
A regal townhouse sets a mood with saturated color and bold texture
By Ann Martini
T
hey call her Miss Hudson. An elegant late Victorian townhouse on Providence’s storied West End, Miss Hudson is less a renovation than a revelation: a home that unfolds room by room, each chamber offering a new mood, a new discovery. “The moment I walked into the condo I knew she was the one,” says the homeowner, a technolog y executive in her fifties. “Light poured through the windows like a permanent art installation, changing throughout the day and transforming every room.”
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Constructed in 1876, the original floor plan – parlor, dining room, family room and kitchen – was a sequence the owner loved and wanted to preserve. “I wanted the house to reveal itself one room at a time,” she says. That decision delighted designer Lindsey Bouley, owner of Lindsey Dana Interiors in Providence. “It’s rare now to have a client ask to keep walls in place,” Bouley explains. “It allowed me to be more creative in telling each room’s story.” The guiding idea for the project was deceptively simple: treat the home like a jewel box. “If this were reduced to the size of a jewel, would it deserve a place in a jewelry box?” the owner asked. That question shaped every selection – furnishings, lighting, artwork, even the smallest decorative
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objects – ensuring that each piece earned its place not by cost or trendiness but by how it deepened the overall experience. Color and light play the canvas for each item. Bouley notes the space’s “magnificent” natural light as her first design principle. An earlier palette of cool blues and black trim left the rooms feeling cold despite abundant sun; together, the women pivoted to warm whites and saturated hues that respond dynamically as daylight shifts. The first-floor palette, save for the kitchen, is Benjamin Moore’s Pink Damask. It was a last-minute choice that inspired the wallpapering of the ceiling in the dining room, making it a conversation-sparking destination. The kitchen opts for Moore’s French Macaron – a soft counterpoint
The owner’s daughter describes this room as “fancy cozy.” Using bright colors and tones was key since this room gets the least amount of light throughout the day. SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Get Rhody Style I d e a s a n d re s o u rce s fo r m a k i n g t h e m o s t o f l i v i n g i n t h e O ce a n S t a te .
Art of the Deal Bouley notes that she finds endless inspiration wandering aisles at places like Mike’s Estate Services, 30,000 square feet of consigned furnishings, art, kitchen items, lighting, rugs, jewelry and more. With hundreds of new items arriving weekly, the West Warwick mill is a treasure trove of one-of-a-kind items, all reasonably priced. Similarly, Rhode Island Antiques Mall in Pawtucket offers one-stop shopping for estate items, repairs, appraisals, and more.
All in the Details Bouley enjoys shopping small around Providence and notes Nava (Wickenden Street) and Studio Hop (Hope Street) for curated, often one-of-a-kind homegoods. Nava trends towards unique, whimsical accessories for the kitchen counter, coffee table, bath, and beyond, while Studio Hop offers bold artworks, handmade items, and more from local and national artists. A favorite Providence artist is Jenny Brown, known for her collage and mixed media work.
B o t a n i c a l T h e ra py Looking to add plants to your decor mix? At Providence’s Thea Plant Company, you will find an expansive collection of tropical flora, specialized soils, and thoughtful accessories, alongside expert services including tailored plant care, bespoke design, and professional consultation. Over in Pawtucket, Jordan’s Jungle features vibrant tropical flora and is ready to curate the ideal botanical accents and vessels for your personal sanctuary, workplace, or outdoor living space.
Photos by Liz Daly Photography, courtesy of Lindsey Dana Interiors
The dining room was designed to spark conversation
to the invigorating tones elsewhere. Each room tells a distinct story. The parlor, formally named by the contractor and inspired by Bouley’s love of fashion icon Karl Lagerfeld’s sense of elegant ease, is ceremonial without being stuffy – “collected but smart,” Bouley says. It sets the tone for Miss Hudson: graceful, layered, and a little theatrical. The family room, which the designer’s daughter calls “fancy cozy,” is the house’s everyday heart: a long , narrow space made warm and functional through strategic furniture placement, a builtin reading nook, and a well-loved leather club SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
chair. Texture, too, creates warmth and movement through the rooms. The owner describes her approach as “thoughtful accumulation;” wallpaper, textiles, metals, estate furnishings, books, and collected objects that reveal themselves over time. Bouley builds on that tactile nest with restraint and intention. “Pattern play and texture mixture is central to my design philosophy,” she says, “but I prefer it to feel special, not ubiquitous.” A hand-painted South Asian sideboard anchors the parlor; surrounding textiles and art were chosen to enhance, not compete with, the piece’s decorative detailing.
Providence itself is woven into the design ethos of the home. “The city values history, architecture and independent creativity,” the owner says. “It inspired me to lean into a home that feels unapologetically feminine, deeply personal, and designed to reveal itself one room at a time.” Still, Miss Hudson is not simply a collection of attractive rooms. “The best homes aren’t simply beautiful,” Bouley says. “They’re designed to be experienced.” Learn more about Bouley’s work and services at Lindsey Dana Interiors, LindseyDanaInteriors.com, Instagram: @lindseydana_interiors Hey Rhody MEDIA CO.
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Off-Runway Fashion Show-sto pp i ng l oo k s a re eve r yw h e re By Britt Machado
I
n Rhode Island, fashion finds its spotlight off the runway. The best dressed can be found strolling down Thames Street or sauntering along Hope. We inherited the best fashions during the summers of the Golden Age and mashed them up with our proud tradition of workwear and a spirit of sustainability. The result is a style all our own: colorful, understated, bespoke, and a little cheeky. You can have as many looks as there are seasons, and that’s something we can all make work.
Long Tiered Bow Dress in Black Cotton: APD, Pawtucket AmyPageDeblasio.com
Leather Slip-on Fabiano Ricci Sneakers: Blueprint 5, East Greenwich Blueprint5.com
Jennifer Satchel: Brahmin, Newport Brahmin.com
Amethyst Crown Ring: Tiffany Peay Jewelr y & Healing Arts, Tiverton | TiffanyPeay.com
Clare V Romy Hat Black: OMO, Westerly | OMOJewels.com
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SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
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“Melody” by Maha Barsom
HOME & STYLE
Reshaping the Industry Meet designers from Rhode Island’s independent fashion scene By Gabriella Cos
R
hode Island’s fashion scene bridges international culture and New England charm. Bringing world-class tailoring techniques, resourceful craftsmanship, and creative collaboration to the smallest state, visionaries are redesigning coastal fashion from a regional look into an evolving canvas where global heritage meets local creativity. For Cathy Burgess, the designer behind the
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Burgess Collection, fashion is about defining a lifestyle, rather than chasing fleeting trends. Burgess captures the fundamental nature of modern luxur y through a blend of European sensibility and classic Newport elegance. Her design philosophy is centered around timeless tailoring and detailed craftsmanship, creating garments that feel like strolling the streets of Paris while simultaneously relaxing along the New England shoreline. Ever y piece
is specifically designed to transition across climates and occasions, resulting in versatile and effortless pieces. “ True luxur y isn’t about adding more,” notes Burgess. A perfect example is the Gwen Dress, a bestseller featuring a slightly shifted waist seam and hidden pockets to create a long , flattering silhouette. Utilizing premium, breathable fabrics, the entire collection effortlessly balances polished structure with daily comfort, Burgess has SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photos courtesy of Maha Barsom
Maha Barsom
Tailor Made Fit, balance, and quality are hallmarks of a bespoke fashion studio and showroom
Cathy Burgess
Not far from the malls of Warwick, yet worlds away quality-wise is the light-filled slow-fashion showroom and studio of Tatyana Ayriyan. Inside you’ll find pieces that Ayriyan has created from scratch – from outerwear to formal wear – each garment revealing intricate details often taken for granted, like the intricate stitching around a button hole, the tufting on a jacket. Along with expert tailoring and alterations, Ayriyan offers custom work: clothing designed and made just for you. It all begins with a visit to T Ayriyan for a consultation about everything from fabric to colors to accentuating the positive. Next are measurements followed by a few visits for fittings, and clients receive styling guidance to help complete their looks. “My work is rooted in creating thoughtfully designed pieces that reflect a woman’s individuality while offering timeless silhouettes and refined tailoring,” says the designer who launched her business in 2018 and had a shop in Newport prior to relocating to Bald Hill Road. “From bridal gowns to special occasion looks, each piece is designed with attention to detail, fit, and the individuality of the client.” Warwick, TAyriyan.com –Elyse Major
Photos courtesy of Cathy Burgess
The Burgess Collection
built a recognizable brand – and a devoted following. TheBurgessCollection East Providence-based designer and RISD apparel professor Maha Barsom views fashion as an intimate dialog ue with the earth. Her journey began early on with her father’s cotton plantation in Syria, watching her grandmother transform discarded fabrics into meticulously woven carpets. Today, that deep foundation of respect for raw materials has SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
shaped her revolutionar y approach. Maha has designed a zero -waste, made-to -order collection constructed entirely from recycled fabric remnants. Having trained in Paris under leg endar y fashion houses like Dior, Chanel, and Saint Laurent, Barsom takes the elite structural techniques of haute couture and applies them to modern street-fashion silhouettes. She approaches each design like a sculptor, refusing to allow size restrictions to dictate
Tatyana Ayriyan
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Rhode Island Fashion Week
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her work. She pieces together irreg ular scraps to create entirely new fabrics, ensuring no two garments are ever identical. With the uproar in fast-fashion, Barsom’s hand-stitched demi-couture pieces offer consumers a deliberate luxur y, reimagining modern fashion with “wearable art worth waiting for.” MahaBarson.com Founder and executive producer of Rhode Island Fashion Week, Yemi Sekoni is redefining regional fashion from Cranston. “For me, fashion has never existed in a vacuum,” Sekoni says. Behind each collection of pieces is an ecosystem of photographers, stylists, jewelers, and visual artists. Sekoni has actively championed this interconnected industry through her collaborative platform, Fashion Fête. Rather than adhering to the traditional exclusivity of trade shows, Sekoni merges high-end runways with interactive marketplaces, proving local artists don’t need to flee to major hubs to gain recognition in their craft. “Rhode Island doesn’t need to become New York,” Sekoni begins. “It needs to become the best version of Rhode Island.” Her ideolog y centers on intentional representation, supporting emerging and marginalized voices while inspiring creators to “treat your creativity like a business from day one.” FashionWeekRI.com SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photos courtesy of Yemi Sekoni
Yemi Sekoni
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HOME & STYLE
She Sells Sea Shells A creative entrepreneur DIYs a DIY bar By Elyse Major
Y
ou know that you have an original idea when you research how to tackle it, and nothing comes up. That was the case for Jessica Billings, founder and owner of Farmgirl’s Front Porch in Wickford, when she landed on the concept of a sea shell bar – a self-ser ve experience of selecting shells as
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vase fillers or for use in crafting – and was ready to pursue how to realize that vision. “I was brainstorming ideas for a unique instore pop -up when my 15-year-old daughter and her friend had a do -it-yourself night and decorated the most beautiful sea shell picture frames. The second I saw them, I started to plan the sea shell bar,” says the entrepreneur,
who opened the brick-and-mortar last spring to add a tactile in-person component to her popular faux floral decor e-commerce site, The Accidental Farmgirl. When Billing ’s search for a “sea shell bar” came up empty, she fashioned her own template. In her pre-Farmgirl life, Billings had a candy buffet business called Party Pants,
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photo by Elyse Major
Jessica Billings at her seasonal pop-up
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where she would set-up beautiful displays of apothecar y jars filled with sweets to align with a prescribed party theme. “ That type of display is so simple and attractive, and I’ve been wanting to incorporate something like that in the shop somehow,” she says. The sea shell bar was the perfect fit. With an arsenal of sturdy plastic jars at the ready from Party Pants, plus baskets and other vessels, the next step was to amass shells. Rather than comb the shoreline and embark on scrubbing and soaking to remove organic matter, she found a trusted vendor and now carries nearly a dozen
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types of shells, each housed in its own jar. The Seashell Bar sits on a wooden unit akin to a potting shed table, lined at the center with leng ths of sage-and-white-striped paper and risers positioned to provide var ying levels for interest and access. On the bottom shelf, there is a basket of mixed small shells with a plastic scoop, and nearby are clear flatbottom bags for shoppers to fill. And whether you know a tiger cowrie from a spiny murex or not, it doesn’t matter – like any hands-on bar or buffet, the choice is yours. Additionally, filled bags are available for grab -and-go.
Throughout the shop, inspiration abounds for how to decorate with shells, whether strung , stored, or as vase fillers. Billings shares that she keeps a jar of shells collected from family vacations in her kitchen yearround ; however the retail installation will be put away to make space for fall. “I am toying with the idea of a DIY bar to switch out with the seasons,” she says. “But I’m not sure if anything will top the Seashell Bar. It’s been so popular, we will keep it up through September.” 10 Main Street, North Kingstown; AccidentalFarmgirlCo.com
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photo by Elyse Major
Shells available include bursa ranna, tiger cowrie, spiny murex, pearlized trochus maculatus, purple turritella, scallop, scotch bonnet, sea urchins, sea stars, and strombus.
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FEATURE
A Growth Industry
Farming in Rhode Island can be a challenging, yet rewarding career
Clark Farms greenhouse in Wakefield
Photo courtesy of Clark Farms
By Emil y Homonoff
R
hode Island’s farming scene is in the middle of a tangible shift. With more than 1,000 farms and the nation’s highest percentage of new farmers, the state’s agricultural sector is growing. From 2017 to 2022, both the number of farms and amount of farmland increased, a genuine reversal after decades of losing ground. Some of that growth is showing up as new infrastructure. For example, Cranston’s Urban Edge Farm just broke ground on a $1.7 million food hub designed to provide small farms with shared processing and aggregation space they could never afford on their own. But the bigger story is happening farm by farm, as growers embrace direct relationships with customers through formats such as Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) shares, farmers markets, and agro-tourism. Here’s how four Rhode Island farms are building that direct connection.
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FEATURE
Clark Farms’ Garden Center in Wakefield sells seasonal products and offers family-friendly attractions
Morris Farms is a fifth-generation family-owned farm in operation since 1915
Photo (top) courtesy of Clark Farms, (bottom) courtesy of Morris Farms
For Rich Clark, agritourism isn’t a side project; it’s the business model. Clark Farms in Wakefield runs on a rotating calendar of profit centers: from greenhouse crops in spring , to pick-your-own sunflower fields in the summer, fall festivals, and Christmas trees and decor in the winter. “Moving from Greenhouse crops in spring to sunflower-driven agritourism, to fall festivals, to Christmas decorating and back to spring again is a monumental task for our staff to execute ever y single year,” Clark says. “As soon as one thing is done, we are racing to start the next season.” That constant motion is deliberate. “ We work really hard to create a destination worth visiting whether it’s just to take pictures, create happy family memories, or to take beautiful products home with you,” he says. Clark credits South Kingstown’s pro -agriculture posture for making that model possible, and he’s optimistic about where the town and the farm are headed. In 2025, Clark Farms acquired the property next door, a farm where Clark himself started shoveling manure back in 1983. This purchase brought the farm’s total footprint to more than 200 acres, “giving us almost unlimited potential to add a multitude of crops and purposes to keep our business solid and successful for the next hundred years.” His son Perr y is now step ping in as a second-generation owner and manager. “ We feel that the future is ver y bright for our company, for our staff, and our community,” adds Clark.
At Tilted Barn, fall feels right at home. Cooler days, changing leaves, fresh beer, and our rustic post-and-beam barn surrounded by the colors of the season. Our farm brewery is a place to slow down, gather with friends, and enjoy a pint while autumn settles into Rhode Island. Spend an afternoon outside in the crisp air, grab a spot inside the barn, catch live music, or make us part of a fall day exploring what South County has to offer.
Join us for our 2nd Annual Oktoberfest!
Saturday, October 10th from 1-5pm
Come see why this season is something special at Rhode Island’s original farm brewery. There’s a pint waiting for you.
Tilted Barn Brewery One Hemsley Place Exeter, RI 02822
Wednesday 4-8 Thu-Sat 12-8 Sunday 12-5
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Maryellen Sun has big goals for Morris Farms, a fifth-generation family-owned farm that has been in operation since 1915. The Exeter and Warwick locations have been investing heavily in equipment, greenhouse upgrades, and a farmstand that now offers premium Angus-Wag yu cross beef alongside its produce and flowers. “For many farms, local regulations prohibit many agritourism events without special permitting or zoning designation,” Sun says. Morris Farms is working with its towns to
change that, with plans for chef-partnered harvest dinners, farm stays, and hands-on classes like flower-arranging workshops. Sun points to rising costs of materials, such as fertilizer and fuel, that hit small farms hardest. “Small farms like us don’t have the ability to negotiate better prices like the large corporations can,” Sun said. What keeps her optimistic is what a working farm protects. Morris Farms’ fields and meadows in Exeter and North Kingstown host beavers, bobcats, turtles, and
monarch butterflies, a habitat that disappears the moment land is developed. “Once farms are developed, there is no turning back,” Sun says. That’s part of why she believes small farms are worth the premium. Without the pressure for crops to survive mass shipping , Morris Farms can grow heirloom varieties like white eggplant, and let tomatoes ripen fully before picking. “Anytime you see a small farmer working , you can pretty much be sure that they are doing this as a labor of love,” Sun says.
FARMERS MARKETS IN SOUTHERN RHODE ISLAND Enjoy the bounty of Rhode Island farms this harvest season at local farmers markets, which can be found around the state most days through October. Here’s a list of some regional markets – be sure to check market schedules before heading out. If we missed your fave, let us know at Marketing@HeyRhody.com
CHARLESTOWN • Through September 20: Charlestown Land Trust Farmers Market at General Stanton Inn, 4115 Old Post Road, Charlestown, Sunday | 9am-2pm.
KINGSTON • Through October 31: South Kingstown Farmers Market at the University of Rhode Island, 25 West Independence Way, Kingston, Saturdays | 8:30am-12:30pm
• Through October 11: Fishermen’s Memorial Farmers Market, Fishermen’s Memorial State Park, 1011 Point Judith Road, Narragansett, Sundays | 8:30am-noon.
Enrollment for the Farm in RI Debit CSA 2026 Farm Share opens soon; details at TheFarminRI.com
SAUNDERSTOWN • Through October 31: Casey Farm Market, Casey Farm, 2325 Boston Neck Road, Saunderstown, Saturdays | 8:30am-12:30pm.
(L) courtesy of Boston Photo courtesy of The Farm inLegacy RI FC
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At The Farm in RI, located in Chepachet, sur viving has meant learning to say no. Owner Sammie Vallone describes the last five years as a crash course in focusing on what actually works. “ We’ve shifted our business model to emphasize direct relationships with our customers through our self-ser ve farm stand, expanded into our restaurant relationships, and continued to grow our certified organic plant sale,” Vallone says. “ We think of it like pruning for the business.”
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The costs forcing that discipline are almost universal for small farms: seeds, compost, insurance, packaging , labor. “There’s a limit to what customers can realistically afford to pay for food, so margins have become much tighter,” Vallone says. This year brought a sharper blow when the farm lost a greenhouse during a blizzard, cutting into what it could grow all season. Vallone sees state grant programs as genuinely useful, but says regulation often assumes a scale small farms don’t have. “Many regulations
are written with much larger operations in mind,” she says. “Small farms often end up navigating the same paper work and compliance requirements as businesses many times their size.” Still, she’s optimistic, pointing to a new generation of growers and a public that increasingly wants to know where its food comes from. “Buying from a local farm isn’t just purchasing vegetables,” Vallone says. “It’s investing in open space, local jobs, food security, and a resilient community.”
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Photo courtesy of The Farm in RI
Samantha Vallone, shown inside the farm stand, is the driving force behind The Farm in RI, located in Chepachet
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Sanctuar y Herbs of Providence is a network of farms that produce chemical-free herbal teas and culinar y herbs grown by small farmers across the Providence area, many of them immigrants and refugees from countries including Liberia, Laos, Cambo dia, and Uganda. Owner Christina Dedora, who also runs Blue Skys Farm on rented land at Urban Edge Farm in Cranston, knows the economics of small-scale farming firsthand. “Labor cost and material cost have risen over the past five years, thus making margins tighter than ever,” Dedora says. Finding help has become its own struggle, too. People “who want to work hard physically” through “unpredictable weather every year,”
as Dedora puts it, is a combination that keeps many prospective hires away. What’s made the difference, Dedora says, is support that goes beyond individual customers. Dedora points to the state’s Local Agriculture and Seafood Act (LASA) grant as one of the biggest reasons Sanctuary Herbs has been able to grow, “We were able to purchase equipment and build infrastructure.” She also credits nonprofits like Southside Community Land Trust, where she and Sanctuary Herbs co-founder Eliza Sutton first met, and Farm Fresh RI for supporting small farmers “over the past 20 years.” Her hope rests less on grants than on people: “an increased number of consumers who truly want to buy local, even though it may cost more.”
58 MAIN STREET, WAKEFIELD 783-5390 • wakefieldmusic.com
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Photo courtesy of Sanctuary Herbs
Sanctuary Herbs creates “farm-to-cup” herbal tea blends
7736 Post Road, North Kingstown
401-294-6500
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FOOD & DRINK E x p e r i e n ce | D ay Tr i p | Re c i p e | R o u n d U p
A Nordic Tale
Nestled on 90 idyllic acres, this Charlestown eatery is the stuff of legends
Photo by Elyse Major
By Elyse Major
I
had heard the lore. People heading to a remote location in Charlestown by the busload for all-you-can-eat lobster and steak. I knew it was called the Nordic Lodge and rebranded to The Nordic upon reopening after a pandemic pause. My only frame of reference was buffets – most of which I didn’t care for – or a vague recollection of Miller’s Smorgasboard in Lancaster, PA, so when I was invited to experience dinner by manager Jake Dolbey, my curiosity was piqued. After a few back-and-forths about dates and times, we landed on a Saturday between 4-5pm. “That will work great,” he said. I invited my husband, Jeff to be my plus-one, and on the day of our reser vation, we figured we’d better eat light.
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The drive to The Nordic took us on winding roads and led us to Nordic Trail, renamed from the Pasquiset Trail after the restaurant became a landmark destination. The walk from the sprawling parking area led us to a welcome sign displaying a map. As we approached the entrance, we passed lush lawns surrounded by tall trees, a man on a hammock watching the spray of a fountain in the pond, multiple outdoor seating options, and a few steps later, a long brick active firepit. We couldn’t help but wander to the side of the building after we spied farm animals munching on
clovers in a wide pasture, and further ahead, a pond-side retreat with live music, a dock, rows of Adirondack chairs, and corn hole games in session. We enter the great hall and Dolbey is there to greet us. He’s a smiley g uy and we feel instantly welcomed. On the walk to our table, we pass a gift shop and a large taxidermy display that includes a grizzly bear, the first clue that this might not be the place for you if you follow a vegan lifestyle ; Jeff and I do not, and continue. We’re seated by a window in the Grill Room, the location for flame-seared cuts
of Certified Ang us prime rib, filet mignon, tenderloin tips, and selections of chicken and seafood. Our affable ser ver takes our drink orders and explains the drill : there are stacks of clean plates at the ready, so take a new one for each round. At the center of the table is a bowl for discarded napkins, shells, etc., that will be emptied frequently throughout our two hours. Okay, here we go. Ever ything looks tasty, from hot to chilled to fresh and fried. Jeff begins with steamed crab legs, lobster mac and cheese, stuffed mushrooms, and lobster fritters. I must get
A signature drink
A bowl of lychees at the dessert area
Enjoy the grounds before or after feasting
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Open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday – reservations required. Dress code calls for proper casual attire.
Photos by Elyse Major
Cuisine: Tasty and abundant surf and turf buffet plus specialty desserts Atmosphere: Casual, rustic, and spacious
a lobster and a container of drawn butter, and can’t help myself and take a scoop of creamy mashed potatoes. Also filling my plate were bite-sized samples: a scallop wrapped in bacon, a baked stuffed shrimp, a stuffed mushroom, a slice of filet mignon, maybe a second helping of mashed potatoes (but who’s counting ); and we both got green beans for good measure. We never felt rushed or hurried, and enjoyed watching birds land at our window’s outdoor feeder. Each time we returned to our table with a random course of say, watermelon or oysters, it was tidy and our drinks refreshed. Full disclosure, we have paced ourselves for dessert (or I would’ve tried the New England clam chowder and/or lobster bisque, perhaps had a second lobster). Jeff made a beeline to the Häagen-Daz ice cream bar – and when they say “with all the fixin’s” – they mean it. Other treats in this Wonka-esque fever dream were gourmet chocolate-dipped fruits, Belgian chocolate mousse cups, cannolis, carrot cake, lemon squares, and more. I landed on a slice of rich chocolate cake topped with fudg y swirls, fresh raspberries on a dollop of whipped cream, and a chocolate chip cookie. As we exited, we saw Dolbey once again at the host area. “Ever ything was so good, and the whole thing felt like being at a restaurant at Walt Disney World,” we tell him. “ We get that a lot,” he smiled. By the busload, I’m sure.
The Nordic 178 Nordic Trail, Charlestown TheNordic.com
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Bikes, Bites, and Beverages Smalle r c rowd s ma ke l ate s u m m e r p e r fe ct for exp lor in g B loc k Isla n d By Jenna Kaplan
T
here’s something about stepping off the Block Island ferr y that immediately wakes up your senses. Maybe it’s the salty air, the sun angling just right, or the quiet thrill of a day wide open for exploring. On a weekday jaunt, I arrived with three coworkers: Nick, our creative director; Abigail, our senior editorial designer; and Taylor, our senior graphic designer. The plan? Keep it simple : wander, eat well, and see where the day would take us.
Block Island Beach House
Rhody Resources Map out a day of late-summer fun BLOCK ISL AND BY BIK E 401-497-1777 PER SEPHONE’S K ITCHEN 235 Dodge Street PER SEPHONE’S PETITE 18 Old Town Road & 1 Bridgegate Square THE SURF AT BLOCK ISL AND BE ACH HOUSE 32 Dodge Street
Photography by Nick DelGiudice
Persephone’s Kitchen
HABITAT OLIVIA CHARLIE B TRIBAL CLARA SUNWOO WHITE STUFF ESCAPE DANSKO OH MY GAUZE +MORE!
Open Daily at 6am Coffee • Egg Sandwiches • Bagels Baked Goods • Soups • Salads Specialty Sandwiches • Vegetarian Dishes
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Fresh Local Seafood Nightly Dinner Specials Family Owned & Operated Karaoke every Friday Night Thank you for another fabulous summer! 3963 Old Post Road Charlestown RI 02813 401.364.9222 www.thecoveri.com
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
FARMERS MARKET
Stroll through the Market with Multiple Artists Exhibition: September 5th-October 12th Reception Saturday, September 19th 5pm-7pm
Wine Tasting & Art Reception With local wine educator, Nat Saywell from M.S. Walker on Thursday, September 24th from 5pm-7pm
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5000 South County Trail, Charlestown, RI • 401-364-0120
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Technically, our island adventure began before we even landed. The ferry bar poured us Bloody Marys – spicy, strong , and adorned with just enough garnish to count as breakfast. With the ocean breeze in our faces and plastic cups in hand, we leaned hard into vacation mode. By the time we stepped onto dry land, spirits were high and stomachs were ready. Our first destination was Persephone’s Kitchen, a bustling café just a short walk from the terminal. Known for its vibrant, health-forward menu, the place caters to gluten-free and vegan diners without losing sight of flavor. I ordered the quinoa rancheros: black beans, quinoa, cheddar, avocado, salsa fresca, lime, and cilantro in a bowl that felt
salad served on thick-cut sourdough bread with mixed greens, lox sourdough toast topped with all the traditional bagel fixings, and ricotta and honey with fresh berries. We tanked up with nitro cold brews and summer peach iced tea before we were back on the road. To end the day, we made our way to The Surf at Block Island Beach House, perched above Crescent Beach. We ordered the BIBH Surfslide – Irish cream, coffee liqueur, vanilla vodka, and ice cream – essentially a milkshake with a motive. One smooth sip and the day felt complete. Ferry-bound, we left knowing one thing : Block Island doesn’t ask for much. Just show up, stay curious, and let the island do the rest.
Eat the rainbow with a satisfying bowl at Persephone’s Kitchen
Photography by Nick DelGiudice
Breezy views and bevvies at The Surf
both nourishing and indulgent. The citrusy finish cut through the richness in all the right ways. The blue ginger smoothie came next – almond milk, mango, ginger, dates, island honey, blue algae, and cinnamon blended into something light, creamy, and oddly energizing. Abigail went classic with the splendid egg sandwich: egg, Vermont cheddar, avocado, arugula, tomato, and bacon, all stacked high. Comfort food with a touch of green. Fully fueled, we met up with Zena from Block Island Bike Tours and hit the road. We pedaled past dramatic cliffs and meadows until our legs reminded us it was time for lunch. Persephone’s Petite at the Historical Society Museum was perfect for light bites like the petite chicken
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Super September A h e a r ty c l a s s i c s o u p m a ke s u s e o f l ate - s u m m e r h a r ve st s By L i z Mu r ray
A
s the ba lmy days g ive way to cooler e vening s, have this heart y, veg etable-packe d soup in your back pocket for a warming , nutritious pick-me-up. Minestrone is a traditiona l Ita lian soup orig inating from the island of Sardinia . It t ypica lly features a variet y of seasona l veg etables, with room to experiment with what’s ava ilable and matches your taste, and leg umes, simmere d tog ether in a flavorf ul tomato -base d broth .
Switch to Farm Fresh September is a month of abundance in Rhode Island, and many of the ingredients included in this recipe can be found at your nearby farm stand, farmers market, and locally grown section at any independently owned supermarket. One bite and you’re likely to be struck by the difference in taste and overall quality of fresh versus preser ved, stored, shipped, and handled by many.
S a rd i n i a n M i n e st ron e S o u p ING RE DIE NTS • 1 15-ounce can of chickpeas, rinsed • 1 15-ounce can of kidney beans, rinsed • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus 1 tbsp per bowl to drizzle • 1 medium onion, chopped • 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped • 6 stalks of celery, chopped • 4 garlic cloves, peeled and minced or pressed • 1 28-ounce can of organic crushed tomatoes • 4 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped into ½-inch cubes • 1 large sweet potato, peeled and chopped into ½-inch cubes • 1½ cups chopped fennel (optional) • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped finely • 10 fresh basil leaves, chopped • 6-8 cups water • 3/4 cup dry Israeli couscous or fregola pasta • 1½ tsp table salt • ½ tsp ground pepper • ½ tsp turmeric • ½ tsp onion powder • ½ tsp garlic powder • 1 tsp Italian seasoning • 1 bay leaf • Garnish with grated parmesan (optional)
STE PS 1. Warm olive oil in a large stock pot. Add the onion, carrot, and celery. Cook over medium-high heat for 5 minutes before adding the minced garlic. Stir well for 20 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant. 2. Add the canned tomatoes, cubed potatoes and sweet potatoes, fennel, parsley, basil, and rinsed canned beans. Add 6-8 cups of water, and then the spices, salt and pepper, and bay leaf. Bring to a full boil, then lower the heat slightly and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes. 4. Stir in the couscous and simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes, or until the pasta is finished cooking , stirring occasionally. Cooking time will var y depending on the pasta you choose to use. 5. Check the consistency of the soup and add more water as needed. 6. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with more fresh chopped herbs and 1 Tbsp of extra-virgin olive oil per bowl. You can also sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve alone or with a toasted piece of sourdough bread, and enjoy! Photo by Liz Murray
For more healthy recipes and cooking videos, visit RecipeHippie.com. Hey Rhody MEDIA CO.
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Savoring Rhody Eight places to revel in “local’s summer” B y Patty J Photo (top L) courtesy of Patty J, (bottom L) courtesy of Cinder Restaurant, (top R) courtesy of Pescadou, (center) courtesy of Pan D Bono, (bottom R) courtesy of Aldeia Coffeehouse
A
fter a few months of sharing the Ocean State with tourists, September means we have it back to ourselves to enjoy! I am here for the peaceful mornings at the beach, less chaotic coffee and sourdough bread runs, and relaxing al fresco meals. Here are eight splendid spots to enjoy all the beauty of late summer, sans crowds.
Cinder Re sta ura nt Follow your nose to this smokehouse known for its slow-cooked meats – including brisket, smash burgers, and steak frites – and a patio overlooking the Pawcatuck River. Having recently visited, I can vouch for their margaritas, hummus and chips, squash fries with passionfruit applesauce, and the fried fish and French lentil salad entree. Leave room for desserts like citrus olive oil cake. Westerly
Patty J at Snack Bar Royale
The Butche r Sho p Owned and operated by Dave Surabian since 1970, this old school deli and micro-grocery in the Elmgrove neighborhood of the East Side is a real gem for lunch (so many soups, salads, and sandwiches!) and essentials like cold drinks and snacks. Additionally, there’s hot food, and I am obsessed with their breakfast-all-day pancakes; some of the best you’ll ever eat. Providence
Jo’s Do ug h After starting as a cottage bakery back in 2023, Jodi Lentini opened a cute little storefront for her artisan sourdough bread this past July on Gansett Avenue in Cranston. Sourdough traditionalists will love the Plain Jane, but don’t sleep on the blueberry lemon, cheddar jalapeño, or the kalamata olive. Pre-order online or take your chances at the walk-up window (go early for best selection). Cranston
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Cinder Restaurant
SEPTEMBER 2026 | HeyRhody.com
Welcome Fall
Pesc ad o u There’s nowhere else quite like this dreamy new French Riviera-inspired brasserie. Lo cated on the main floor of the refreshed Ho tel Viking and named for the Provencal word for fisherman, Chef Robert Andreozzi and Jesse Hedberg have created a menu based on exceptionally fresh, locally sourced seafood. I love the raw bar, Parisienne gnocchi, and their spin on a lobster roll. Newport
Pescadou
Pan D B o n o Open since mid-June, this Colombian bakery and cafe in a plaza on Broadway is fast becoming a go-to spot. Traditional Latin American baked goods like cheesy pandebonos, buñelos, and churros are made from scratch daily by the owner, who is a third-generation baker. They also have amazing empanadas, Colombian coffee, and hot or cold specialty lattes that will wow you. Pawtucket
Aldeia Co ffeeh o u s e Inside a charming yellow cottage on Maple Avenue, Chef Maggie Mulvena Pearson (Feast and Fettle) has created a slice of Portugal. Lingering over a specialty coffee drink and toasted bolo sandwich with Portuguese red plum jam and salted butter feels like traveling abroad; I mean, even the mugs and plates are imported from Portugal. Barrington
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The Olympia Tea Room is 110 years old and has been owned and operated by the Felber family for more than 45 years. With its pink walls, temperance clock hanging over the bar, and mahogany booths, any visit feels like stepping into a classic movie. My favorite time to go for delicious salads, seafood, and grilled pizza is in September when the village isn’t so crowded. Watch Hill
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Aldeia Coffeehouse
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Coffee, ice cream, oysters, and cocktails is what you’ll find at Snack Bar Royale, the latest offering from Chef Jake Rojas (formerly of Tallulah’s Taqueria). This jaunty seaside eater y brings coastal European energ y and a curated menu of sips and snacks ideal for slow mornings and leisurely evenings by the water. Seating and window ser vice, too! Jamestown
of
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ABOUT RHONDA @classicallynewengland
A little slice of peace and serenity on Beach Pond in Exeter.
A mom living life forever passionate about noticing all the little things, from the trees dancing in a breeze and sounds of birds singing in the rain to the beautiful colors of a summer sky. It’s these moments that bring her a sense of gratitude, peace, and joy.
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