Celebrating 50 years! Follow us for live music and events 162 West Main Rd, Little Compton • (401) 635 8486 @sakonnetwine • Sakonnetwine.com
SAYLES LIVINGSTON HOME
THE
CHEESE WHEEL VILLAGE MARKET
Over 200 cheeses available, Sandwiches, Soups, House-Made Bread, Local Meats, Produce & Prepared Meals
Custom charcuterie & cheese boards available. Call to order! Open 9-5 Tues-Sunday 3838 Main Road • (401) 816 5069 @thecheesewheelri
Fine Home & Outdoor Furnishings, Interiors, Antiques & Gifts 3847 Main Road • (401) 625 5814 @sayleslivingstonhome • sayleslivingstonhome.com
GRAY’S ICE CREAM - 2 LOCATIONS!
Scooping homemade ice cream for over 100 years! 16 East Road, Tiverton & 467 Hope Street, Bristol (401) 624 4500 • graysicecream@gmail.com graysicecream.com • @graysicecream
FOUR CORNERS GALLERY
TIFFANY PEAY
JEWELRY & HEALING ARTS
Summer of Pearls 2025. Come celebrate the ocean’s most cherished gift: Pearls. Shop an array of pearls of all colors from all over the world. Open daily. 3851 Main Road • (401) 816 0878 TiffanyPeay.com • @tiffanypeayjewelry
WRIGLEY STUDIO & GALLERY
South Coast Artists Open Studio Tours: July 19-20 & August 16-17
Monthly visiting artists & weekly painting groups. West Wing Gallery & Painting Groups • 3852 Main Road - Garden Entrance (401) 339 9676 • @wrigley_studio @tivertonfourcorners
CEDIAN PAINTING
New Waves washing into Cédian Painting: Studio-Gallery. Pillows, tiles and paintings by Jennifer Jones Rashleigh 3848 Main Road • @cedianpainting cedianpainting.com
New Artists & New Art Works!
Collections of painting, sculpture, ceramics, photography & jewelry
Make your beach house a home with a cozy & fun addition from Lou Lou’s Décor with locations in Tiverton & Newport. Full interior design services available. 3913 Main Road • (401) 816 4362 www.loulousdecor.com
Comfortable & Sophisticated AT
THE SAME TIME
SINESIA KAROL IS ORIGINALLY FROM BRAZIL AND RELOCATED TO BOSTON. SINESIA DESIGNS EXQUISITE SWIMWEAR THAT SEAMLESSLY BLENDS ELEGANCE, FASHION-FORWARDNESS, AND A DEEP APPRECIATION FOR WOMEN'S INDIVIDUALITY.
The Buzz
7 ARTS: Nonprofit stages series of outdoor concerts on Aquidneck Island
12 RHODY PETS: How a chance gig caused a rewarding career pivot
16 VOICES OF THE BAY: Parade general chairman motivated by lifelong love of Bristol’s Fourth
18 RHODY GEM: A Portsmouth market puts shopping healthy within reach
20 CALENDAR: This month’s must-do’s
Home & Style
A17 HOME: How a creative couple makes the most of 700 square feet
A26 RHODY READS: Eight new pageturners from local lit-fluencer
A28 INFLUENCER: Meet the designer behind those artful clutches
A30 WELLNESS: Tips for protecting your skin this summer
Feature
53 Ways to maintain calm during stressful times
Food & Drink
61 EXPERIENCE : French classics served with elegance and warmth in Newport
64 IN THE KITCHEN: A family recipe inspires a retiree to cook-up a new business
68 ROUND-UP: Eight atmospheric cafes around the state
70 FOOD TRENDS: A trio of restaurants serving vacay vibes
Fashion Forecast
Designers, makers, and buyers share summer trends
Photo courtesy of Stalise
Photo by John Hasselbarth, courtesy of Rare Form
Photo courtesy of Kent Stetson
Photo courtesy of Audette
THE COVER: Cashmere gets nautical in a striped crew neck. Photo courtesy of Alashan Cashmere
Let the coast call you home.
Alicia grew up spending summers in Green Hill, giving her a lifelong connection to the Ocean State. Now based in Barrington, she brings that same coastal perspective to buyers and sellers across Rhode Island.
Once Alicia’s children became avid sailors, her summers were spent all over the east bay and she has in-depth knowledge of this area in RI and some of the magical ‘semi- secret spots’ that she would love to share with you!
Whether you’re searching for a weekend getaway or a new place to put down roots, Alicia’s local knowledge and market insight can help you find your perfect home, wherever in Rhode Island it may be.
HERE ARE SOME OF MY EAST BAY FAVORITES:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Clamcakes and chowder at Evelyn’s Tiverton
Iced coffee and treats from Groundswell
Tiverton Four Corners
Berry Picking at Four Town Farm
Barrington / Seekonk
Hot fudge sundae from Gray’s Ice Cream
Tiverton & Bristol
Drinks on the Castle Hill lawn & watching sailboats
Newport
Locally roasted coffee, espresso drinks, and outstanding hot and iced chai. Gourmet sweet and savory crepes made to order, and fresh baked goods crafted from scratch. Fantastic location right on the Town Wharf!
RI
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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
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THE BUZZ
Photo by Ken Abrams
Music for the Birds
Nonprofit brings concerts to idyllic Aquidneck Island settings all summer long
By Ken Abrams
There’s something truly magical about attending a concert at sunset, as blue skies fade to gray and nighttime stars emerge. And by stars, we mean the ones in the sky as well as those on the Norman Bird Sanctuary (NBS) stage. Add dozens of feathered friends chirping a little harmony into the mix, and you’ve got an evening to remember. Experience that magic at the wildlife sanctuary this summer, where several concerts produced by Newport Live are scheduled for July and August, along with one at Greenvale Vineyards in Middletown this month.
Art | Rhody Pets | Voices of the Bay | Rhody Gem | Calendar
The pastoral property is the perfect setting for a concert, adhering to Newport Live’s mission, “to celebrate diverse music traditions through vibrant performances in unique spaces.” “I love to bring unique artists to the area in these spaces,” says Dick Lynn, executive director of Newport Live, the non-profit that produces year-round concerts in venues
around Aquidneck Island. “Our audience loves the mix of different musicians and venues, which includes jazz, Americana, folk, blues, Cuban, and Brazilian music.”
NBS executive director Kaity Ryan is enthusiastic about the partnership. “We are excited to welcome back Newport Live for a fifth summer,” she says. “These concerts are a
wonderful reminder of how culture and nature can come together in the most inspiring ways. Gathering outdoors to enjoy live music at the sanctuary is a meaningful and memorable experience for our community.”
Lynn has brought leading performers to Newport, including NPR Tiny Desk Concert winner Alisa Amador, rising Irish star
Photo by Ken Abrams
Nashville-based singer
Kyshona Armstrong performing at Norman Bird Sanctuary
JUNE 20: Laura Cantrell at Norman Bird Sanctuary
JULY 11: John Gorka at Greenvale Vineyards
JULY 18: Jeffrey Foucault at Norman Bird Sanctuary
AUGUST 29: Leslie Mendelson at
Lisa O’Neill, and alternative-country singer-songwriter S.G. Goodman, who is playing this summer’s Newport Folk Festival. The non-profit partners annually with New York City’s Jazz at Lincoln Center to celebrate South Africa Freedom Day, and has produced a women’s voices series, as well as an indigenous music series in recent years. But
Norman Bird Sanctuary
the summer shows are about being outdoors, a practice that began during the pandemic. “When I was hired in 2020, COVID was a threat, and people were not able to gather,” says Lynn. “We had previously been streaming shows online, and I went to Kaity and discussed how we might be able to do something to bring people together. Without hesitation, she said
yes, and we formed a partnership between our non-profits to create the first summer series. This summer is our fifth anniversary.”
In addition to live music, the series offers local service agencies an opportunity to spread the word about their activities. “We give voice to other non-profit social agencies in the region before our shows so that they can speak about
their missions to our audiences,” says Lynn. As a small non-profit, Newport Live is often fighting an uphill battle. “It’s always a challenge as a nonprofit, going up against the big guns of the for-profit companies,” he adds. “But we seem to be not only holding strong, but growing our audience. We really appreciate the public’s support.” Learn more at NewportLive.org
Bluegrass artist Rachel Sumner at NBS
Photo by Ken Abrams
Kathleen Flaherty – A Rhody Life Rooted in Love, Resilience, and Community “Love Where You Live”
Kathleen Flaherty is more than a real estate professional—she is a beacon of warmth, perseverance, and purpose. As a licensed agent with Residential Properties Ltd. in Barrington, Rhode Island, she has built a career centered on trust, integrity, and helping others “love where they live.” But behind her professional success is a deeply personal story of courage and compassion.
A devoted wife and mother of four, Kathleen’s journey has been shaped by both deep love and profound loss. When her mother passed away from ovarian cancer, it was a turning point—one that could have quietly broken her. Instead, she turned her grief into purpose.
Kathleen wrote An Octopus Named Mom, a beautiful children’s book written in memory of her mother, with all proceeds going to Ovations for the Cure. In this act of creativity and compassion, she found a way to honor her mother’s memory while helping others facing similar battles.
But Kathleen’s challenges didn’t end there. Her life changed in an instant when she sustained a traumatic brain injury—an event that altered the trajectory of her life and deeply affected her family. In search of healing and a fresh start, Kathleen and her family moved to Barrington, Rhode Island, drawn by its closeness to Hog Island and the East Bay—places that had always felt like home.
Then, faced with a broken back and two surgeries, Kathleen endured a long and grueling recovery. Yet even in the darkest moments, she never gave up. With unwavering determination and the support of her family, she emerged stronger than ever.
Now, as a top producer at Residential Properties, Kathleen credits her adversity for shaping the gratitude and happiness she carries into every day. “I never would have known this level of appreciation for life if I hadn’t faced these challenges,” she often says. “It’s made me more compassionate, more connected to others’ struggles - and more committed to making a difference.”
What makes Kathleen’s journey even more meaningful is that her two daughters, Lydia and Bridget, have followed in her footsteps. Today, they work side-by-side with her at Residential Properties, sharing her passion for real estate and community. Together, they form a dynamic team—one rooted in family values, mutual support, and a shared vision of helping others love where they live.
Beyond her real estate success, Kathleen has become a passionate advocate and fundraiser. Each year, she and her sister helps organize major philanthropic events at Fenway Park— supporting causes like Hop On A Cure for ALS awareness and Camp Southern Ground for veterans and their families as well as children with disabilities. Her generosity reflects a
powerful truth: when life breaks your heart, you can still use the pieces to build something meaningful. CampSouthernGround.org, OvationsForTheCure.org, HopOnACure.org
As “The East Coast Rhody,” Kathleen connects people not just to homes, but to neighborhoods, businesses, and the heart of the community. Her blog and social media presence highlight local gems and events, always grounded in the belief that where you live should feel like home— because home is more than a place; it’s a feeling. What truly sets Kathleen apart is her unwavering belief in lifting others up. She often volunteers her time and expertise to mentor new agents, empowering them with the skills— and the heart—to succeed. In her own words, “Success is not about transactions; it’s about relationships. It’s about leaving every person better than you found them.”
Throughout the summer, Kathleen lives with her family on their beloved Hog island and has done so for 53 years. Surrounded by lifelong friends and family, You will find her commuting to work on her 18 ft boat to her port of Bristol where she and her family are members at the Bristol Marine. Hog Island is her true home. Kathleen Flaherty is a woman who has taken the hardest parts of her story and used them to lift others. In doing so, she has built more than a career—she has built a legacy of love, resilience, and radiant purpose.
New Leash on Life
A chance dog-sitting gig inspires a career pivot for a Rumford photographer
By Alexandra Ashe
For years, Rhode Island native Diana Pozzi spent her days behind the lens, capturing weddings, portraits, and life’s most intimate moments as a full-time photographer. But over time, the magic started to fade out of focus. Feeling burnt out and creatively drained, she knew she needed a change, something that would reignite the spark she once felt every time she picked up a camera.
In February 2018, a neighbor asked Pozzi to watch their dogs for a long weekend. What started as a casual favor quickly became a turning point. “I absolutely loved it,” says Pozzi of spending time with the furry friends.
“I needed a part-time job while I figured out my next move, and after that weekend, my then-boyfriend (now husband) said, ‘you’ve always wanted to open a doggie daycare. How
about you do something with dogs?’” Pozzi took the suggestion to heart and hit the ground running. Within weeks, she built a website, consulted a lawyer to set up the business properly, got certified in pet First Aid and CPR, and officially launched Woof! Dog Walking & Pet Sitting on April 1, 2018. Next came the marketing: posting in Facebook groups, handing out business cards, and taping
Diana Pozzi
flyers on every bulletin board in town. Slowly but surely, the hard work paid off and within months, she had a steady group of regular clients – and a whole new lease on life. “It fulfilled me in a way photography never did,” says Pozzi. “I was finally doing something that made me happy.”
Today, Woof! provides professional dog walking, pet sitting, house sitting, and pet escort
services throughout the greater Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts area. Based in Rumford, Pozzi and her team care for animals within a five- to 10-mile radius, whether their humans are out of town, working that 40hour work schedule, or just taking a day trip. And though Pozzi left photography behind professionally, it still plays a crucial role in her work: each visit comes with adorable cell phone
Summer in Rhode Island means beach days, backyard barbecues—and sometimes big real estate decisions.
With local expertise, renovation insight, and a nopressure approach, I’ll help you build a plan that fits your goals and your timeline.
Sonya
Sonya
POCKET PETS
Woof! services include visits with guinea pigs, turtles, bearded dragons, and bunnies!
snapshots that reassure pet parents their animals are safe, happy, and well cared for.
Each day begins bright and early for Pozzi and her manager, Amy LoSasso. They handle scheduling and last-minute client needs before hitting the road at 9am, providing visits that range from 15 minutes to a full hour. Every stop is filled with tail wags, belly rubs, and slobbery smooches. “You can be having the worst day, and the second the dog sees you, their excitement just breathes new life into you,” says Pozzi. “They’re magic. We really don’t deserve them.”
At home, Pozzi is just as surrounded by pets as she is on the job. She and her husband share their lives with two dogs, Dash and Chloe, and two free-roaming bunnies, Burt and Bethany, who’ve become unexpected internet stars. “People love them,” she laughs. “I post videos of them eating breakfast and they have quite the following!”
Now, with a thriving business and a 13-month-old son, Pozzi’s days are full, but never overwhelming. Her goals for Woof!’s future are still evolving, and while new projects and services are on the horizon, she’s happy to
grow at a pace that fits her life. What matters most is doing work that brings her joy.
“It’s hard for me to even describe how much I love what we do,” says Pozzi. “It doesn’t feel like work. I can honestly say I have my dream job and wouldn’t want to be doing anything else. We’re a crew of like-minded people who’d rather be outside with dogs than sitting in a cubicle all day. They’re like family,” she says of her team. “What we’ve built together is really special. I get very emotional thinking about how far we’ve come.” Learn more at WoofRI.com
Bristol Fourth parade chair takes changes in stride
By Nina Murphy
For Camille Teixeira, waking up on the morning of Bristol’s iconic Fourth of July Parade is akin to the excitement of Christmas Day. The Bristol native has always treasured the summer holiday and all the hoopla leading up to the parade. When her father Antonio, was selected as Chief Marshall in 2012, Teixeira witnessed firsthand the vast enormity of work done by a group of dedicated volunteers. It instilled in her a desire to roll up her sleeves and get involved. Since joining the committee in 2013, Teixeira’s responsibilities have increased from collecting donations to being subcommittee chair of the Breakfast Committee to vice chair to parade chairman, all of which helped prepare her for the two-year position of general chairman, which she was elected to in 2024. Teixeira, who holds an associate’s degree in business administration from the Community College of Rhode Island, has been with Citizens Financial Group for 15 years, the last nine as a senior cyber security analyst. She credits her handson experience in the planning and execution of Citizens’ Credo Week, a week-long celebration in recognition of its 3000 employees, as a springboard to taking on more responsibility as a member of the Bristol Fourth of July Committee.
Photo (L) courtesy of Camille Teixeira
Camille Teixeira
CHRISTMAS IN JULY: I remember as a kid getting up and going to get a spot at the end of our road at 4:30 in the morning and helping dad set up. We all would wear our new matching Fourth of July outfits. To me, the Fourth is like Christmas.
LABOR OF LOVE: We currently have about 50 active members. We have close to 100 volunteers, but many of them are lifetime members who have served their time and are not active. To be on the
committee, members are required to work on the day of the parade. I would love to be with my family, pull my chair up, watch the parade, and have a cookout after. Instead I’m up at 5:30am and I’m breaking down at 2:30pm. I’m still cleaning up the reviewing stands and making sure golf carts are back, bringing all the coolers to my garage so I can wash them and store them for the following year. There are so many details and logistics taken care of by our tireless volunteers who make creating this special day seem like magic.
PERSPECTIVE: It has definitely been a challenge from which I’ve grown. I’ve learned to let things roll off my back. My priorities are my family first. At the end of the day, I am a volunteer. I am very passionate about the celebration, about the town, and bringing the community together, seeing smiles on people’s faces. I’ve gotten many letters of appreciation, which are very touching. Some of them have brought tears to my eyes.
Many hands are required to keep Bristol’s Fourth of July parade marching on
The Green Grocer
Natural/organic grocery store
What it is:
The Green Grocer is a mom-and-pop natural and organic grocery store, with a focus on local items, offering 100 percent certified organic produce, plus cost-saving bulk food selections.
Where it is:
In the heart of Portsmouth on East Main Road, find this grocer between the lights at Union Street and Glenn Road, beside the Portsmouth Veterinary Clinic.
What makes it a Rhody Gem?
Founded in 2007 by John Wood and Aly Marks-Wood, this husband-and-wife duo opened their health-focused grocery with the core belief that “healthy people are related to a wholesome environment, and that a wholesome environment produces healthy people.” With a community-first ethos, the attentive staff guides customers through an array of healthful choices. The produce section, filled with organic fruits and veg, is a riot of colors, while organic wellness and personal care products are nestled on wooden shelves, giving the well-organized store an eco-focused vibe. Whether vegan, gluten-free, paleo, or just into organic foods with no additives or pesticides, The Green Grocer caters to all diets. Stop by their prepared foods section and grab a healthy nosh to take to the beach.
The Green Grocer
934 East Main Road, Portsmouth
TheGreenGrocerRI.com
Instagram: @TheGreenGrocerRI
Facebook: TheGreenGrocer
Every neighborhood has that secret, hidden, cool and 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 The Green Grocer
The Must List
10 essential events this month
Peter Dickison is among the artists at the Open Studio Tour
For a statewide listing of events visit us online! HeyRhody.com
July 19-20: Grab a map and plot your course on this self-guided Open Studio Tour of Little Compton and Tiverton. Enjoy peeks at studios of various mediums and chat with artists as you tour the pastoral beauty of the farm coast. Repeats August 16-17. SouthCoastArtists.org
Through July 30: Cheer on the stars of tomorrow when the Newport Gulls play rivals in the New England College Baseball League most Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays through July at Cardines Field; playoffs scheduled for early August. NewportGulls.PointstreakSites.com
July 4: The Bristol Fourth of July Parade is famously the oldest in the nation to celebrate independence and an annual tradition for many Rhode Islanders. Arrive early and don’t forget your sunscreen! Bristol, FourthOfJulyBristolRI.com
July 4-22: The Newport Music Festival presents over two dozen intimate concerts from over 100 artists at iconic venues like The Breakers, and picturesque outdoor settings, including Rosecliff Terrace, Norman Bird Sanctuary, and Blithewold Mansion. Newport, NewportClassical.org
July 6-13: See the top men’s and women’s players play the famous grass courts at the Tennis Hall of Fame Open , just one of many exciting events happening at the newly renovated space this summer. Newport, TennisFame.com
July 10: The Teeny Tiny Show features over 50 works from Collaborative-member artists that are three-inch or less in size. The opening reception includes teeny tiny martinis and other refreshments provided by Arc{hive} book + snackery. Warren, TheCollaborative02885.org
July 11: Newport Vineyards welcomes guests to the annual Fire Dinner , a unique open-flame culinary performance and five-course dinner led by executive chef Andy Teixeira and his team. Middletown, NewportVineyards.com
July 22: Discover rare film footage at Stepping into the Unknown: Films from the Bob Dylan Center , with Steven Jenkins, who will share rare video and hold a post-screening Q&A with the audience. Singer-songwriter Lloyd Cole also appears. Newport, JanePickens.com
July 25-27: The historic Newport Folk Festival returns to Fort Adams State Park with an A-list of stars including Kenny Loggins, Lucius, Luke Combs, Marren Morris, along with local artists Tyler James Kelly and Nova One. Newport, NewportFolk.org
July 30: Little Compton celebrates 350 years since its founding with events all summer long, including the Summer Sunset Concert Series at the Sakonnet Vineyard with folk singer Gary Farias. Little Compton, LC350th.com
Photo by Elyse Major
Nadia Rudman PA-C Physician Assistant
FASHION FORECAST
BY ELYSE MAJOR
Rhode Island designers, makers, and buyers on essential summer looks – natural fibers, soft neutrals, and more top the list
For the smallest state, Little Rhody punches well about its weight when it comes to style. With a serendipitous mix of in-state degree programs ranging from fashion merchandising to apparel design, coupled with lingering resources and mill spaces from our manufacturing heyday, one doesn’t need to look far to find a designer with a studio/showroom tucked along a waterway. Adding to this climate are the state’s numerous main streets which derive their charms from the highly curated boutiques hanging their shingles on historic buildings. To get a sense of what makers are making and sellers are selling, we queried founders, designers, buyers, and owners around the state. Along with reporting on what’s trending, discover brands you may not have known existed – outfitting fashionistas everywhere – right here in Rhode Island.
Coco Goose
Alashan Cashmere
Tigris Handmade
Stalise
Therapy Boutique
DESIGNERS/MAKERS
ALASHAN CASHMERE: Apparel
Don Fox was on a path to work at the CIA or NSA, “but I ended up a fashion designer,” he says with a chuckle. “Life will take you down paths you least expect.” As an early cashmere apprentice in Woonsocket, Fox immersed himself in every aspect of the business, learning about fiber dying characteristics and touring the spinning and weaving mills of the USA, Europe, Japan, and Korea. Today, Alashan is known for its extensive color palette of pure cashmere and other natural blends, carried at boutiques and furnishing rooms at places like the Ocean House in Watch Hill. “Our customers say that we own the rainbow!” says Fox.
WHAT’S HOT: “A combination of gray and neutrals/tan shades, and blues, continues to do well for us.”
WHAT’S AHEAD: “For fall 2025, we are obsessed with the jam and jelly colors, as well as rich and earthy chocolate colors.” Alashan Cashmere, Mapleville
LINDQUIST: Handbags
Simple shapes, elegant vibrant hues, and a single round brass piece to close are among the signature elements that make Lindy McDonough’s soft leather bags instantly recognizable. McDonough studied Industrial Design at RISD, followed by a post-grad job in NYC retail, but it was shadowing a master craftsman in a Connecticut leather factory that cemented her career path. “I’ve been designing and pattern making and building bags ever since.”
WHAT’S HOT: “Butter and chocolate, and not just because those are two of the most delicious foods. Soft yellow and deep brown is absolutely having a moment – we ran an edition in our deep Chaga brown for the holidays and it sold out instantly.”
FAVE LOOK: “One of my favorite combinations to wear this season has been my Cordera navy track pants with a classic red stripe paired with a KasMaria dark vintage floral patterned corduroy jacket.” Lindquist, Rumford
The quiet luxury of a cashmere mesh hoodie
(two bottom right) by John Hasselbarth, (bottom left) by Josiah Patterson, courtesy of Linquist Object
Beautiful colors transend trends
THE
LOVE SHACK BY LOLA: Jewelry
Lilith Guerrera had been creating jewelry for years, but it was while vacationing in Spain that pendants caught her eye. “One piece really inspired me and got me thinking about how special it would be to wear a pendant with true meaning. As an experienced entrepreneur, I tapped into my creative side and began designing my own jewelry. That’s how LOLA, Love one, love all, was born.” Founded in 2015, Guerrera’s line is offered in more than 250 retail stores nationwide, with two brick-and-mortars, one right in Newport.
WHAT’S HOT: “We saw a lot of blue at NY Now (wholesale trade event) this year, and recently came out with a new blue that’s been extremely popular for spring/summer.”
FAVE LOOK: “We love when people get messy and layer up all different textures, colors, and sizes. It’s a lot of fun and there are no rules.” The Love Shack by LOLA, Newport
DESIGNERS/MAKERS
“Performance meets presence”
ROAM LOUD: Apparel
Providence born-and-raised Toyin Omisore founded ROAM LOUD in 2020 and has been busy ever since. “I’m building an activewear brand rooted in representation and movement, and I also work as a digital content strategist, so storytelling, aesthetics, and intention are always top of mind for me,” says the Wanderer-in-Chief. Her premium brand of activewear and athleisure apparel is available in an appealing palette and received national attention when her Yanta bra and legging set was selected as one of Oprah’s Favorite Things in 2023.
WHAT’S HOT: “Lighter shades of green and ivory are beautiful and perfect for spring.”
“I absolutely love how women have moved into a combination of loose and form-fitting clothing. Seeing heels, loose jeans, a fitted shirt, and a blazer feels like we are leaning into styles and looks that we love, look good in, and feel comfortable in.” Roam Loud, Providence
Photos (top and middle) courtesy of Roam Load, (bottom) by Alex Joachim, courtesy of Roam Loud
Oprah’s fave: the Yanta set
THREE ISLANDS: Apparel
“A little sunshine for your closet” is the M.O. for this clothing brand made from hand-printed colorful Balinese batik. Westerly’s Justin Goff was living in Bali, surfing and making clothing for himself and his friends, when he met Tika, and the rest is “wear happy” history. The couple’s light-filled seasonal flagship in Watch Hill is the place to view their entire line. “We want people to put down their phones and live life, not just ‘like’ it on Instagram,” says Justin.
WHAT’S HOT: “We have some beautiful greens worked into this summer’s line that we love. We have always loved our cottons. They wash well, are great to wear, and last long. Nothing beats the natural weave!”
FAVE LOOK: “A Three Islands batik shirt with old khaki shorts or a dress with an old pair of flip-flops says ‘let’s have a fun summer day.’” Three Islands, Watch Hill
“Put a little sunshine in your closet”
TIGRIS HANDMADE: Shoes
Every pair of Tigris Handmade shoes is made one at a time, by hand, using traditional Turkish techniques. “As an artist, I view each pair of shoes as a canvas where ancestral knowledge meets contemporary design,” says founder Selahattin Şep, who describes fashion as a form of storytelling. “I love that it can hold memory, place, identity, and it’s a living thread between generations.” Inside their showroom, find an assortment of colors, styles, and sizes.
WHAT’S HOT: “Earthy reds and terracotta tones are having a big moment. They feel grounded, warm, and bold all at once –like something ancient but totally fresh at the same time.”
FAVE LOOK: “I love a relaxed linen suit paired with handmade leather shoes. It’s effortless but still put-together. There’s something so timeless about it.” Tigris Handmade, Bristol
Photos (L) courtesy of Tigris Handmade, (R) courtesy of Three Islands
The Sardinia dress
THE MUST LIST
21 cool colors and goods to add to your summer wardrobe:
• Belts
• Boho looks
• Butter yellow
• Chokers
• Craftsmanship
• Contrasting colors
• Gold
• In-store shopping
• Kicks in candy-colors
• Lace
• Mocha mousse
• Natural fibers
• Nautical
• Navy
• Nostalgic prints
• Scarves
• Seashell jewelry
• Sheer fabrics
• Stacked bracelets
• Vintage florals
• White
BOUTIQUE OWNERS/BUYERS
CARMEN & GINGER VINTAGE GOODS
Christine Francis loves the history behind fashion, especially the elements that have affected trends over time, from scarcity of materials to youth culture. Since opening her first space in the Arcade Providence in 2013, followed by a move to Tiverton, and then to Warren, Francis’ eye for everything from cowboy boots to costume jewelry has made her shop the go-to for those seeking unique pieces made to last.
WHAT’S HOT: “Chunky 1970s and 1980s gold necklaces are very in. Makers like Napier, Monet, and Trifari (the latter two made in RI) created high-quality plated pieces that look as good today as they did 40-50 years ago.”
FAVE LOOK: “Victorian and Edwardian authentic and revival styles are very popular again. Even Victorian revival items popular in both the 1940s and 1970s are having a resurgence in today’s market with their intricate engravings and classic styles.” Carmen & Ginger Vintage Goods, Warren
Photos courtesy of Carmen & Ginger Vintage Goods
Find on Child Street, Warren
COCO GOOSE: Apparel
In March of 2023, Mary Lou Baraw brought full-service women’s clothing boutique Coco Goose to Wayland Square. “I adore our customers," begins shop stylist Liz Atkins. “They are the best part of the job. Life can be heavy, but fashion doesn’t have to be.” Shoppers can expect to find premium denim, cashmere, and more from over 300 brands and labels.
WHAT’S HOT: “It’s fun to see the butter yellow right now, and the beautiful strong greens from Ulla Johnson. Navy and white are always fantastic in spring and summer.”
FAVE LOOK: “A modern blazer or tailored vest, a fun pair of barrel-leg pants, and a maxi, boho dress styled with Frye Campus boots. Belts are back, too, and I’m loving the resurgence of the scarf. So many options there.” Coco Goose, Providence
“Denim-on-denim is definitely making its way back”
RELENTLESS BOUTIQUE: Apparel
“Based on my experience and research, I think people are starting to shop smarter, meaning buying more essential pieces rather than trends. People are also starting to pay attention to what the clothes are made of,” says Relentless Boutique LLC owner Sara-Nicole Dattoli. That means natural fibers like 100 percent linen and cotton. Her Main Street shop, which just celebrated its fourth year in business, is ready to outfit women from head to toe in styles that are comfy, pretty, and classic.
WHAT’S HOT: “Butter yellow – it just screams spring. It looks good on everyone, and it’s a very happy color. Also, gingham – its timeless charm makes it a favored choice for those seeking classic patterns with a modern twist.”
FAVE LOOK: “I love a light-wash straight leg with a pair of loafers and a cardigan. It looks so chic.” Relentless Boutique, LLC, East Greenwich
Stylist Liz Atkins
STALISE: Apparel
Stacey Downing and Lisa Hurd were working together in a high-end Newport store when they decided to open a shop that caters to the “everyday woman.” The duo’s shared goal is to make a woman look and feel her best in an environment that is friendly and relaxing. A combo of their first names, Stalise carries everything from jeans and T’s to special occasion dresses. “Looking your best gives you a confidence boost that can motivate you in every aspect of life,” says Downing.
WHAT’S HOT: “The color of the moment is mocha mousse; it’s an easy color to wear and pairs nicely with all neutrals in your closet. Also, wider pants and jeans, classic structured dresses, and feminine lacey tops.”
BOUTIQUE OWNERS/BUYERS
“We’ve got your look covered”
Apparel
While raising their kids, friends Candace Brown and Lauren Wells were trying to figure out their next career steps. They wanted to work for themselves, and were both armed with past retail experience in buying, management, and merchandising. “We came up with a business plan for a boutique that was different from what South County had to offer,” says Brown. “We truly believe that fashion and shopping is a form of therapy.” Today the pair own and operate Therapy Boutique at two coastal locations.
WHAT’S HOT: “Yellows, pinks, and soft pastels look beautiful with earthy tones like mocha. All shades of blue are always popular in Southern Rhode Island. Our advice is if you like a trending color but it doesn’t suit you, add it to your wardrobe as an accessory.”
FAVE LOOK: “Day dresses that, with a switch of shoes and accessories, become a going-out look.” Therapy Boutique, Wakefield & Wickford
Photos (top) courtesy of Stalise, (bottom) by Abigail Brown
Boutique “therapist” Candace Brown at work
WILDFLOWER KIDS: Apparel
Tara Barkovitz started embroidering sweatshirts as a creative outlet and selling them online. When a retail space in downtown Westerly became available, the former art teacher and stay-at-home mom took a chance and opened Wildflower Kids. It wasn’t long before her store outgrew the space and moved to a larger one across the street. “Children’s fashion is really such a fun and joyful industry. There’s nothing better than a smiling kid coming out of the fitting room feeling good or the joy that oozes out of a first-time mom or grandma shopping for a new baby!” says Barkovitz.
WHAT’S HOT: “Pastels for babies, muted brights for girls, and bright T’s in candy colors for boys.”
FAVE LOOK: “Gone are the days of stiff fabrics and fitted outfits. Kids want to be comfortable, and fabrics like muslin, cotton, and bamboo are all the rage!” Wildflower Kids, Westerly
Elevate an outfit with a jacket
BOUTIQUE OWNERS/BUYERS
Downtown Westerly
WOODEES A BOUTIQUE: Apparel
Growing up, Anna Maria Lenihan spent a lot of time at Woodmansee’s, a gift shop and boutique established in 1904, owned by her mom and grandmother. All the while the wheels were turning in Lehinan’s mind to open her own shop. Enter woodees, a charming addition to Westerly since 2012, with clothing and accessories for men and women. Breezy dresses, seashell earrings, hats, and even outerwear are all available.
WHAT’S HOT: “Pink, and everything very girlie, feminine, and sweet. Florals, boho prints, and linens for spring and summer, plus lots of nautical/fisherman vibe stuff, and red!”
FAVE LOOK: “I will always love a good pair of fitted jeans with a simple but elevated basic top. Bonus if you add a jacket. It just works, always, no matter your mood.” woodees a boutique, Westerly
Photos courtesy of woodees a boutique
COLORFUL ATTITUDE
When asked, “who gets to name the colors in your line?” Don Fox, owner of Alashan Cashmere explains, “our design team presents them to me, but I get final say,” adding that he knows from institutional knowledge what resonates with customers. Here are some favorite names from the designer/makers featured in this article.
ALASHAN CASHMERE:
Artichoke, Fruit Punch, Mineral, Windswept
LINDQUIST: Carrot, Kelp, Otter, Persimmon
ROAM LOUD:
Cocao, Dark Roast, Green-ish, Plum
THREE ISLANDS:
Dawn Hours, Golden Hour, Orange Pagoda, Rum Jungle Pink
TIGRIS HANDMADE:
Bougainvillea, Damascus Camel, Dandelion, Euphrates Blue
Photo by Elyse Major
Alashan Cashmere swatches
HOME & STYLE
Home | Rhody Reads | Influencer | Wellness
Compact Chic
A 700-square-foot horse stable is transformed into a stylish tiny home
By Fifi O’Neill
Bernadette Heydt personifies the saying “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.” Her late grandfather was a prominent contractor in New York City and one of the main contributors to building several of the Big Apple’s most iconic landmarks. Her admiration for those accomplishments, combined with growing up alongside her father’s love of restoring unique properties, led her to her passion. “I knew interior design was what I wanted to pursue after years of witnessing my father’s appreciation for how architectural design can be both beautiful and functional,” she says. But it wasn’t until she was nineteen and living in Italy that she decided to pursue her passion and enroll at the acclaimed Istituto Lorenzo de’ Medici in Florence, where she received her bachelor’s degree in interior design.
Fast-forward to 2013 when Heydt and her Italian-born husband Andrea Pietrangeli, a videographer, moved back to the States to pursue their careers. Shortly after they settled in Newport, they purchased a property composed of three buildings dating back to the early 1800s. Throughout the years the complex has served various functions, but it was originally used as horse stables and storage for their carriages. Today, craftsmen, painters, sculptors, and photographers call the lovingly renovated compound home.
Despite its compact size the mood of the living room is one of serenity, uncluttered simplicity, and cohesiveness. Built-in niches and shelving allow for tidy displays. Heydt chose bamboo shades for the windows for texture and privacy but also to bring a coastal vibe into the space. Beautiful raw materials like the original beams and wide plank pine floor speak of the loft’s historic charm and character.
Photography by Mark Lohman, styling by Fifi O’Neill, courtesy of CICO Books.
A pair of pedestals signals the entrance to the master bedroom
Despite its tiny footprint, the loft Heydt and Pietrangeli designed and share with their young children, lives large and well. Built on a foundation of white, the space feels luminous, light, and airy. And though the floor plan is wide open it emanates an intimate vibe. “After many years of living in Europe, a large home didn’t seem like a necessity,” Heydt explains.
“Considering the space is only 700 square feet, the key goal was to keep the layout open and only add walls where it was absolutely necessary while keeping functionality, balance, proportion, and scale in mind.”
Inspired by her years abroad, Heydt wanted to incorporate the crisp white stucco look seen in the homes of southern Italy. “We had
to be strategic with the layout and maximize the use of space, so we built shelving into the walls to add storage, and in doing so we were able to achieve the Mediterranean feel we were after,” she says. Her creativity comes through in her European minimalist-yet-cozy approach, the neutral backdrop, and by relying on natural materials like wood and leather
Gray linens adds contrast to the all-white bedding
Photography by Mark Lohman, styling by Fifi
O’Neill, courtesy of CICO Books.
A 15-foot plank bridge links second floor spaces; the trek can be daunting for the uninitiated
Photography by Mark Lohman, styling by Fifi O’Neill, courtesy of CICO Books.
to add texture and warmth. “I love mixing modern clean lines with vintage or worldly items,” says Heydt. “The marriage between the two aesthetics brings out an authenticity that is both elegant and unique.”
The idea of living in a tiny home can be intimidating, but when everything you own serves a purpose and is used on a daily basis, and when it means you display only
meaningful pieces, the tradeoff is worth it.
“Designing a tiny home requires thoughtful solutions in order to fit all the utilities that a modern home demands,” Heydt concludes. “Yet there is nothing we lack that a 2500-square-foot home has, maybe just fewer rooms to vacuum!”
Find more in Shades of White: Serene Spaces for Effortless Living by Fifi O’Neill, photography by Mark Lohman, CICO Books.
The original Dutch door was refurbished by Pietrangeli
HOME & STYLE
High above the main living areas, the couple set up two small rooms where they can pursue work and hobbies. White walls bounce the light harnessed by several skylights. Wood beams add definition and warmth.
Get Rhody Style
Ideas and resources for making the most of living in the Ocean State.
Local Accents
Bernadette Heydt shares that she always gravitates toward shops with a curated soul. “For art, I adore Jessica Hagen Fine Art + Design in Newport, she has a beautifully discerning eye for contemporary work that still feels timeless,” says Heydt.
Coastal Essentials
“The Lawn at Castle Hill is a classic,” offers Heydt. “Sunday brunch at The White Horse Tavern is also a must.” Crossing the state, she notes that a stop at Sandy’s Fine Food Emporium in Westerly is always a treat, “whether I’m grabbing beach snacks, a cold drink, or something special for a picnic, it’s one of those charming spots that makes everyday moments feel elevated.”
Fresh Approach
“I believe homes, like summers, should feel effortless, inviting, and full of life,” says Heydt. More at HeydtHome.com
Next Chapter
Find author and stylist Fifi O’Neill’s latest release French Flair: Creating a home inspired by French style at all good booksellers. CICO Books
Photography by Mark Lohman, styling by Fifi O’Neill, courtesy of CICO Books.
Rhody Reads
Eight summertime releases and an author event
By Robin Kall
This season promises to be one for the books, especially with this slew of summertime releases. Whether you’re beach-bound, hammock-ready, or curled up inside with the AC blasting, here are eight standout books to add a twist to your TBR pile, plus an upcoming opportunity to listen to four of their authors.
Tina Knowles opens up about her extraordinary journey, from growing up in 1950s Galveston to becoming the powerhouse behind three of the most iconic names in music (Beyoncé, Solange, and Kelly Rowland). But Matriarch isn’t just a celebrity memoir, it’s a heartfelt story about motherhood, identity, resilience, and the strength passed from one generation of women to the next. Knowles’s voice is intimate, wise, and full of heart.
Hannah Pittard delves into themes of identity, memory, and artistic ownership in If You Love It, Let It Kill You , a novel as sharp as it is surreal. When a writer discovers her ex-husband’s
BOOK IT: JULY 16
The Cardigan Connection, Rhody’s original author series returns with Hannah Pittard, Amber Oliver, Laney Katz Becker, and Kate Russo, all discussing their books and more. Books available from Symposium Books. Begins at 6:30pm. Alchemy, 171 Chestnut Street, Providence. RobinKall.com
Indicates author is part of The Cardigan Connection event
debut novel is based on her, she spirals into a bizarre midlife crisis, complete with a talking cat and brutal self-examination. Pittard doesn’t hold back, resulting in a read that is funny, biting, and emotionally unfiltered.
In All the Men I’ve Loved Again , Christine Pride introduces Cora Belle, a woman caught between her past and present in the most personal way. Spanning decades, this beautifully told story inspired by real events, explores love, heartbreak, and the chance to make a different choice the second time around. It’s tender, thoughtful, and filled with characters you’ll want to root for. Out July 8.
Set in early 1960s suburbia, In the Family Way invites readers behind closed doors to witness the quiet courage of women confronting impossible choices. Laney Katz Becker skillfully reveals secrets – from hidden pregnancies to subtle acts of defiance – all unfolding amid weekly games of Canasta. The novel is moving, empathetic, and a vivid reminder of social progress alongside ongoing struggles.
Amber Oliver’s debut, When the Music Hits , vibrantly captures the highs and lows of New York’s ruthless music industry. Billie Grand lands her dream position at a record label but quickly encounters office politics, subtle
racism, and moral compromises. Tested on all sides, Billie finds renewed purpose in an artist who rekindles her passion for music. This story is smart, soulful, and honest about ambition and authenticity.
Against the backdrop of 1981 South London, Jamaica Road centers on Daphne, the only Black girl in her class, striving to stay under the radar. Everything changes when she meets Connie Small, a bold and magnetic Jamaican immigrant. Lisa Smith’s debut is rich with emotional depth, depicting the complexities of race, class, first love, and family secrets amid a city in transition. Tender, tense, and beautifully crafted.
Beck Dorey-Stein’s Spectacular Things delves into the complicated love between sisters Mia and Cricket Lowe, tight as kids but drifting apart as adulthood takes hold. Cricket is chasing a soccer career, and Mia’s left trying to figure out where she
fits in. What follows is a story about ambition, identity, and the quiet heartbreak that comes when the people we love grow in directions we didn’t expect. Dorey-Stein writes with warmth and insight, capturing the messiness of family with grace and bite.
In her second novel Until Alison , Kate Russo delivers a chilling literary thriller set in a small Maine town where buried secrets refuse to stay hidden. After Alison’s murder, her former rival Rachel Nardelli is drawn into a tangled investigation marked by guilt, class divides, and simmering resentments. Russo’s sharp prose and layered characters create a gripping, quietly unsettling story you won’t soon forget.
Please consider patronizing your local independent bookstore when making book purchases.
ABOUT ROBIN KALL
Robin Kall is a literary influencer and head of books at Rohm Feifer Entertainment, with a knack for bringing book lovers together. For over two decades, she’s built a devoted and passionate following, whether in her home state of Rhode Island, online, or anywhere readers gather. As the host of Reading With Robin, Kall has interviewed some of the biggest names in literature. She’s also the mastermind behind countless author events, including her signature Summer With Robin, and the newly minted The Cardigan Connection, which she co-hosts with her daughter, Emily Homonoff. Most recently, Kall co-hosted Former First Lady of Iceland Eliza Reid with Rhode Island First Lady Sue McKee at the Rhode Island State House to celebrate the release of Reid’s Death on the Island . When she’s not championing books and authors, Kall enjoys life in the Ocean State with her husband, and their corgi, Benny. Follow her bookish adventures on Instagram, Facebook, and (occasionally) TikTok. Learn more at RobinKall.com
Meet Kent Stetson
A glimpse into the Kenterprise behind those artful handbags made in Pawtucket
By Ashley Erling
What drew you to creating handbags?
I was showing artwork in galleries and cafés in town, but in the meantime, while I was at Brown and after graduation, I worked at a shoe store in Wayland Square. The store had a few brands of artistic handbags which I was pretty good at selling. I inspected the pieces and realized that I could put my own handmade and fashion-forward spin on what those bags offered. The first pieces I made sold immediately and I continued to make and sell the bags at the store. Interestingly, my small company has lasted longer than any of these other brands, which are all now defunct. I liked the freedom that bags gave me to lean into the fun aspects of creating something.
You’re always creating new concepts. Where does your inspiration come from?
Inspiration has always stemmed from the practical reality that we have to make a living. I have a well-defined commercial product that has sustained itself because it can be translated infinitely. As long as there are things that people care about, I will have a business focused on channeling those things into a dressy fashion accent. That said, I am an artist at the core of this enterprise. Because of my need to create and surprise, I play on the side with things that challenge conceptions, like my runway shows at StyleWeek, which have earned a reputation for being a little bonkers.
Rhode Island themes often make an appearance in your work, does the state play a role in your design process?
We inherently identify with the David vs. Goliath story, being from the smallest state. Rhode Island cheers on the things that land us recognition beyond our borders. That has and always will be what gives me an edge in the gauntlet of making my work successful. Listen, The Real Housewives of Rhode Island is coming, a show that often challenges this idea of being “ladylike” and behaving. While I don’t like the thought of people being exploited for their personal tragedies, I do think this franchise presents a huge opportunity for a lens to show what makes our state deliciously scrappy.
What do you like to do during your downtime?
When I’m not dialed in, I enjoy being at home and puttering in the yard, spinning my legs on the bike until I forget what I was thinking about, and cooking fabulous meals with my very understanding and loving husband, Luis. That said, Pretty Snake on Brooke Street is a glimpse into the brilliant and zany mind of Joe Segal, a Rhode Island treasure of a designer who has a billion-dollar vision in a very modest farm-to-table version of Urban Outfitters. Track 15 is the latest dining sensation where the old guard and new kids on the block show off in a culinary casserole of options. For a moment of zen, Swan Point Cemetery is my go-to; I love everybody there, LOL! It’s also a reminder that we are here for our time, which isn’t forever. Learn more at KentStetson.com
Photos courtesy of Kent Stetson
Increase Your Screen Time
Summer sun protection
made simple with tips from a local dermatologist
By Elyse Major
There’s nothing like that first day back at the beach. But while the sun feels good on our faces, it’s actually not so good for our skin. Pink cheeks can be a sign of sun damage and give way to premature aging and skin cancer. So what’s a sun-worshipper to do? We checked in with Alyssa Findley, MD, FAAD, FACMS, a double board-certified dermatologist and fellowshiptrained Mohs surgeon specializing in skin cancer detection and treatment, from her office in East Providence. Our takeaway: start each day – not just beach days – with sun protection.
“Sun damage, like wrinkles and skin cancer, will occur over time, not only due to the intensity of exposure to the sun, but also the accumulation. You are exposed to harmful UV rays even on cloudy days, and exposure happens through car and house windows,” says Dr. Findley. “I recommend applying a moisturizer with SPF as part of your morning routine –especially to the face, sides, and back of the neck, and exposed chest,” begins Dr. Findley. SPF stands for sun protection factor; as the value increases, sunburn protection increases; however, it doesn’t reflect time in the sun. For example, SPF 30 doesn’t mean 30 minutes or hours of protection, but is a relative measure of the amount of sunburn protection provided by the sunscreen. “Daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30+ helps prevent sun damage, premature aging, and lowers your risk of skin cancer. Reapply every two hours, and if you swim or sweat, use a water-resistant formula. Remember: water-resistant isn’t waterproof!” And for people with sensitive skin, Dr. Findley often recommends mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
Dr. Findley also reminds folks to cover easyto-miss spots like ears, tops of the feet and hands, and the back of the neck with sunscreen,
RHODY-MADE SKIN CARE
Raw Elements is a sunscreen brand founded by Brian Guadagno, a career lifeguard at Narragansett Town Beach. Among its attributes, it is “reef safe” which means the sunscreen contains no ingredients that will cause harm to the reefs or any other marine life. Learn more and find stockists at RawElementsUSA.com
Dr. Findley
CUTE COVERAGE
Sun protection gets stylish with brands like Cabana Life, made with UPF 50+ fabrics. Find select styles at Gingy’s in Newport.
and apply lip balm with SPF. She offers that an easy way to protect skin is by wearing a widebrimmed hat, UV-blocking sunglasses, and UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) sun-protective clothing. Think: swim shirts with sleeves for lotion-averse kids building drip castles for hours, and stylish apparel for daytime jaunts, dining al fresco, even outdoor ceremonies. Staying hydrated helps, too. “Drinking water helps maintain your skin’s natural barrier and keeps your skin looking healthier. Stick to water over sugary or alcoholic drinks, especially on hot days to avoid dehydration,” says Dr. Findley.
While most of us have had a fair amount of sun exposure in our youth, Dr. Findley says that the good news is that skin cancer is generally very treatable when caught early. “And remember, skin cancer does not discriminate – it can occur on younger and darker-skinned people, so it’s important for everyone to get a skin exam.” Worried about a mole? Dr. Findley says that any mole that changes in size, shape, or color – or looks different from others – should be checked. “Itching, bleeding, or new spots that will not heal are also red flags. I always stress early detection.” Learn more at FindleyDerm.com
FEATURE
Create Calm
Strategies and activities to manage summer stress so it doesn’t steal your sunshine
By Andrea E. McHugh
In a world where the hustle is real, overscheduled is an understatement, the news is a potpourri of heartbreak, global unrest, and rising geopolitical tensions, and your Apple Watch will literally send you a notification reminding you to breathe (read this with the intro to Led Zeppelin’s “Immigrant Song” in your head for peak accuracy), it seems harder than ever to find a sense of calm. The good news is, it’s there… perhaps buried underneath the Google calendar or lost in the gridlock of the Route 6/10 Connector, but calmness is attainable, and there are a number of Rhode Island resources that can help us recalibrate, realign, and reawaken this summer and beyond.
Get your hands dirty at Mudstone Studios
Photography by Mike Cevoli
STRETCH
“Movement is a beautiful way to find your calm because it gets your mind onto your body and out of your head all the time,” says Laura Nave, a classically trained and certified Pilates instructor with more than a decade of experience in the professional health and fitness fields. Ten years ago, Nave opened Rare
Form Pilates, a group fitness studio in Providence’s Jewelry District. Here, clients of all ages, fitness levels, and experience use Pilates apparatus to do flow-based, core-centered exercises focused on building strength. “The workout is built on the principle of centering and control, breathwork and flow,” explains Nave. “The intention of the work is to keep
your body functioning, well, and free of pain, and that ideology never gets old. My eldest client here right now is 90.”
Inner calm, explains Nave, is part and parcel to the practice of Pilates. “If you come in and you have to focus on different movement patterns and you give yourself the space to focus on your body for an hour, trust me, you
Comforting vibes at Rare Form Pilates
Photos by John Hasselbarth, courtesy of Rare Form Pilates
walk out of the room much calmer than you walk in.” Pilates is meeting your body exactly where it is, adds Nave, which means anyone can get started at any time. “Spoiler alert: there is no perfect way to come to the body. You just have to do it,” she says, adding that many people get caught up in the pressures of perfection when it comes to wellness and fitness. Sometimes just a 30-minute walk can reframe your perspective, she says.
Photo (top) by John Hasselbarth, courtesy of Rare Form Pilates, (bottom)
Photography by Mike Cevoli
Act Out
In the heart of Rolfe Square in Cranston, discover multiple art studios, a ceramics studio, gallery, and theater at the Artists’ Exchange. Programs include all-level art classes, summer camps, school programs, performances and events in art, theater, music, and ceramics. The in-house Black Box Theatre is an integrated theater company composed of actors with and without disabilities. Learn more at Artists-Exchange.org
CREATE
Ellen Blomgren also finds inner calm in her practice, but it’s a practice of a different kind. The professional ceramic sculptor and artist educator founded Mudstone Studios clay studios at Cutler Mill in Warren nearly two decades ago so that she not only had a place to create, but also to teach others how to develop breathtaking artistic expressions. In 2022, she opened a second studio in Pawtucket at Lorraine Mills, and just last summer added a third location in Wareham, MA. “Any medium takes years to hone. Sculpting just came more naturally to me and I have been evolving over the years, stretching further with every new project,” says Blomgren. Born out of a desire to support artists across the South Coast and now, around the Capital City, Blackstone Valley, and the Cape, Mudstone Studios serves as a communal workspace for artists and novices working in ceramics. She’s committed to creating an affordable and nurturing environment for all levels, for both adults and mature teens.
The craft is one that lets her detach from life’s demands. “Sculpting takes me to a meditative space where I lose all track of time and the busy stuff that makes up the rest of my life,” she says. “The work lets me express how I see the world, and how I hope others can see it. It’s almost a vacation from the real world.”
Blomgren’s inspiration is the natural world, and she often sculpts animals and wildlife in engaging poses, which also gives her a sense of calm. “I love the outdoors and how sunshine feels, even on the coldest days,” she says. Whether in her yard or out in the woods, walking the East Bay Bike Path, wandering down to the beach with her dogs, or exploring the Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium in Bristol, Blomgren finds a serenity in the outdoors that translates seamlessly into her work. “I’m so lucky to live so close to all of this natural space.”
REFRESH
For others, finding a true sense of calm involves very little physical activity. Spa visits are often considered the pinnacle of indulgent luxury and frou-frou pampering, and while not entirely untrue, treatments can legitimately help soothe both mind and body. Inspire Medical Spa and Wellness Center in Narragansett offers BroadBand Light (BBL™) technology, which uses intense pulsed light therapy to treat different skin conditions. “BBL is a photothermal energy that will reduce the amount of fine vessels and unwanted melanin that produces pigmented lesions and redness,”
explains Pamela Lutes, Inspire’s owner. “What’s really cool about that is that the device that we have here, they used in a 12-year Stanford University study, and it proved actual RNA and DNA change. So when you change the gene expression of the skin to that of younger skin, your skin doesn’t just look younger, it is younger. It is protective, it goes down deep, and it eradicates damage before it can turn into anything.”
More than just beauty-driven, Lutes says the spa has doubled in size to accommodate growing demand and expand wellness services. IV therapy, for example, is an increasingly popular wellness
THINGS TO TRY THIS SUMMER
LEARN A SKILL
• East Bay Music Studio, Warren
• Portsmouth Art Guild, Portsmouth
• Stitch Supply, Barrington
• Weirdgirl Creations, Barrington
GET STARTED
• Bristol Total Fitness, Bristol
• Nanaquaket Yoga Studio, Tiverton
• Newport Pilates & Company, Newport
• RI Fencing Academy & Club, East Providence
TRY A NEW DO
• Ananda Hair Designs, Warren
• The Beauty Studio, Portsmouth
• Hair Heart & Soul, Bristol
• Tiffany’s Salon & Spa, Barrington
ENJOY A TREATMENT
• The Beauty Studio, Portsmouth
• Findley Dermatology, East Providence
• Radiant Esthetics, Newport
• Spa at Castle Hill Inn, Newport
• Spa Fjör, Newport
trend that Inspire offers in which a high dose of minerals and vitamins are administered directly into a client’s bloodstream. “You can choose your cocktail of vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, and amino acids. We’re looking to strengthen immunity, and people feel more energetic. You can recover from a workout – or a night out –rehydrating, replenishing your body… people always tell me they just feel so much better after that,” says Lutes. She adds that the spa is seeing more appointments by men than ever before. “They’re just as stressed; it’s just different kinds of stressors,” Lutes explains.
Pamela Lutes FNP-C and team ready to Inspire
Photo courtesy of Inspire Medical Spa
FOOD & DRINK
Experience | In the Kitchen | Round Up | Food Trends
French Kiss
Beloved restaurateurs bring Parisian tastes to Thames Street
By Andrea E. McHugh
An announcement came in springtime that the long legacy of an elevated dining experience at 505 Thames Street in Newport would continue, but with a fresh, modern concept. Shortly after, the doors of Audette opened and the impression it’s made since is magnifique.
For more than three decades, chef/owner Albert Bouchard and his wife Sarah worked tirelessly to garner a coveted reputation for their eponymous restaurant’s fine French cuisine. Bouchard Inn & Restaurant became a downtown Newport – and frankly, a Rhode Island – icon; the kind of place where reservations were required and a dress code was taken seriously. Myriad awards and accolades poured in over the years, but when the time came to pass the baton, the family-run team behind much loved local restaurants TSK and Mission, and kitchen goods shop Utility (plus retired restaurants Winner Winner and Nomi Park) rose to the occasion.
Anna Burnley, Tyler Burnley, Chad Hoffer, along with Carmen Ratoi, who was part of Bouchard’s front of house for more than 15 years, are ushering the restaurant into its new chapter. Audette takes fine French dining and merges it with a contemporary point of view. While the outside of the restaurant on bustling Thames Street hasn’t changed, the inside has been completely reimagined with a swanky bar and modern interior while continuing the tradition of perfectly set tables draped in crisp white linens.
Savory delights including the Poulet en Croûte
“The new bar opened the whole place up a little bit and made it a little more light, so it ties it in and it gives the room a lot more energy, whereas before, it was very quiet,” explains Hoffer. “Now you hear the cocktails shaking and the banter at the bar. It just kind of made the whole place a bit more new.”
Hoffer, a lauded chef who hails from the Midwest and whose resume includes cooking at David Burke’s BLT Prime in New York City, where he met fellow chef Tyler Burnley, credits Anna and Carmen with being the vision behind the whole aesthetic of the space, creating a French Provence meets au courant vibe.
As one might expect, the drink menu starts with apéritifs – cocktails served before the meal to whet the appetite – in proper French fashion. You’ll find a host of temptations, including the French martini, Hugo Spritz, Kir Royale, and the Gentian Spark, a blend of Lillet, Salers, absinthe, and sparkling wine.
A carefully curated selection of beer and wine rounds out the list of libations, while classic caviar service, a nod to the traditions of haute French cuisine, and charcuterie top the dinner menu.
Longtime Bouchard diners will be relieved to find a few familiar hors d’oeuvres, like the mushroom vol au vent with wild mushrooms in porcini béchamel nestled in a flaky puff pastry. “We’ve changed it up a little bit, but it’s very recognizable and familiar from what it was before,” says Hoffer. Escargot, beef tartare, and seared foie gras are also starters, as is an homage to the Ocean State: Rhode Island Red Consomme with clams, crispy potato, and pickled fennel. Main dishes, or “plats principaux,” are seasonally driven, while Hoffer looks forward to some dishes earning permanent residency. “We’re hoping to have some things that sort of become classics on our end,” he says, adding that overall, diners can expect changes every few weeks. “But not drastic changes,” he adds. Hoffer, who
can sometimes also be found behind the line in the open kitchen at neighboring TSK, is a proponent of sourcing locally. Big Black Dog Farm, an artisanal grower of edible flowers, micro greens, micro herbs, and vegetables, is less than a mile away and one of Hoffer’s longtime favorite purveyors.
True to French tradition, a meal at Audette is incomplete without dessert, and Bouchard’s beloved Grand Marnier souffle, artfully presented with its pillowy top followed by a dramatic pouring of crème anglaise by the server, remains a fixture. Speaking of, so do two of Bouchard’s longtime servers, the crème de la crème themselves. Dan Sylvester and Max Putier both have more than a decade of experience in the dining room and have seamlessly adopted Audette’s approach. Though Audette is a fine dining experience, the team here also wants it to be approachable; a high-end experience that remains warm, welcoming, and down-to-earth. Yes, ideal for special
Chad Hoffer, Carmen Ratoi, Tyler Burnley, and Anna Burnley
Photo (L) by Danielle Putier/Visual June, courtesy of Audette
Must-Try Items
RHODE ISLAND RED CONSOMME ($15):
An upscale take on chowder with clams, crispy potato, and pickled fennel.
POULET EN CROÛTE ($38): A chicken pot pie of puff pastry, truffle, and pomme puree.
GRAND MARNIER SOUFFLE (11.50):
The classic dessert served with creme Anglais
Cuisine: Classic French Atmosphere: Parisian elegance
occasions and romantic nights out, but also for diners who crave next-level dining sans pretense any night of the week.
For an alfresco amuse bouche of Auduette, the beloved tiny bar between TSK and Audette, traditionally referred to as “Sarah’s Bar” and now dubbed the “Mid Bar” as it’s midway between the two eateries, is open with a new menu crafted by Hoffer and Burnley. “It’s a snack menu with things like mushroom pâté, or mortadella mousse, or stracciatella with pesto,” says Hoffer, who you may even find behind the bar at times (it’s a magical little spot, admittedly). As one might expect, there’s plenty of champagne as well, which is fitting as Audette has much to raise a glass to looking ahead.
A retiree cooks up a new business, bringing her mom’s stuffed quahogs to local grocers
By Abbie Lahmers
Following a long career in education, including over a decade as an administrator, Cheryl Ursillo happened upon an unexpected phenomenon after entering retirement, as foretold by a saying her father used to express: “I have nothing to do and all day to do it in.” Ursillo explains, “It was always funny when he said it – and then all of a sudden, you become your parent and you find yourself in that stage of life.”
Rather than letting her free time stretch into days filled with nothing to do, Ursillo hatched a plan. Motivated by the memory of her mother making stuffies for holidays and special occasions, she started tossing around the idea of recreating that nostalgia. “A lot of people who had eaten my mother’s recipes over many years encouraged me to [make them], and what they didn’t know was that I had already thought about marketing them.” Ursillo dove into the ins and outs of starting
her own business, attending a Sam Adams-led seminar in Providence covering everything from marketing to research and development, and gleaning insights from The Big Idea , a book on making entrepreneurial dreams come true by Donny Deutsch. Through courses on starting a food business, she learned that she didn’t need to have her own manufacturing company, and when she found one that was a good fit to recreate her unique product, the stars aligned for Grace’s Stuffies to come to fruition.
Cheryl Ursillo of Grace’s Stuffies
Stuffies prepared just like Ursillo remembers her mom making them
P hoto courtesy of Grace’s Stuffies
“I thought Rhode Island deserved a stuffie that was really, really good,” says Ursillo, remarking on the delicacy’s staple status here, where quahogs are the state shellfish. With Grace’s Stuffies, you can see the seafood chunks in each shell, and the filling is moist and buttery, not overly bready. Ursillo took a hands-on approach to developing and scaling the recipe from the batches of 36 her mother would typically make to just under 1,200, working closely with the manufacturing facility to ensure each four-ounce, hand-scooped portion of savory stuffie filling was consistent, and that it tasted just like her mom used to make.
Adding slightly sweet bay scallops to the clam mixture and Margherita pepperoni instead
of chourico, Ursillo explains that her mother’s recipe is an Italian version of the Portuguese stuffie many are familiar with. “As I always say, variety is what makes life interesting,” she notes. “It’s not to say that one is better than another –it’s just different.”
It’s clear that Rhode Islanders agree. The fourpacks of frozen stuffies fly out of the freezer cases of stores around the state. When it comes to marketing, Ursillo is a people-person. “I’ve just gone out and found customers of my own,” she says matter-of-factly, whether that means calling grocery stores, offering samples, or handing out her business card to customers. “People are often intrigued,” she says. “They’re surprised that the person who owns the company would take the
time to meet the customers and share my story.”
What was once a tradition in Ursillo’s home is now a centerpiece in many families’ holiday dinners and backyard barbecues. She’s even fulfilled requests shipping them as far away as Florida and California from folks wanting to gift a taste of Rhode Island to their loved ones who have moved away. Says Ursillo, “My mother would be so touched to think that she has had a place at so many tables and that her recipe was shared among so many people in all different places.”
Grace’s Stuffies are available at select grocery stores and local markets including Clements’ Marketplace, McQuade’s Marketplace, and Newport Specialty Foods. Learn more and find full stockist list at GracesStuffies.com
P hoto courtesy of Grace’s Stuffies
Clams and bay scallops in the mix
Ursillo takes a hands-on approach to overseeing the production of Grace’s Stuffies
From Festivals to Farms, Scenic Trails and Pick-YourOwn; 100+ Ways To Explore Rhode Island During the Fall Season!
Savoring Rhody
From a log cabin to a carriage house, eight unique cafes to linger over coffee
By Patty J
Make grabbing java and a nosh way more stylish at these eight lovely cafes around the state. Whether you choose to post about lingering over a latte or put the phone down and just be present, these snazzy destinations, each with its own ambience, are perfect for your next coffee break, morning meal, or midday catch-up with your best pal.
Cafe Ava
Inspired by the married owners’ Guatemalan and Dominican roots, the cafe named for their daughter has brought much pizzazz to the Rolfe Square neighborhood in Cranston since opening in 2022. Go for their tres leches lattes, scrumptious homemade pastries, and Cuban sandwiches; stay for the beautiful mural, swing (a great photo opportunity), and sweet details. Cranston
Café Zara Coffee House
This sun-filled spot on Taunton Avenue brings a taste of Portugal to EP. Feel like you’re on vacay with items like the beautifully plated Lisbon Morning, a warm baguette with cheese and fruit, or the popular tosta mista, a Luzo take on grilled cheese. Regulars love their fanciful flavored lattes, iced coffees, and egg sammies. Pro-tip: grab the window seat –a hanging basket chair. East Providence
Groundswell Cafe + Bakery
Encompassing a corner of Tiverton Four Corners, Groundswell effortlessly blends Parisian
flair (flowers on every table and adorning some dishes) with small town comforts, like their wraparound porch, where you can plant yourself year-round. In addition to baked goods and artfully presented bowls, find French offerings like croque monsieur, leek and gruyère quiche, croissants, and even wines by the glass. Tchin tchin! Tiverton
Kaffeology
“Beautiful and delicious” appears on the window of the recently opened Garden City location of this chain of three. Like Cranston, Portsmouth had a recent glow-up, now boasting a southwest look inspired by owner Andreea Marin’s trip to Arizona. While soaking in the aesthetic, sip a specialty matcha or coffee drink, tuck into brunch all-day faves like the smoked salmon platter, or nibble warm banana bread. Cranston, Newport, and Portsmouth
Presto Strange O
Stop by on your way to Rocky Point State Park (or Morris Farm for corn!) for a Vietnamese iced coffee and a sweet or savory treat at this Warwick Neck haunt. The vibes are a little bit goth (Heathcliff might be a barista here if he lived in the 2020’s) with some cheeky accents thrown in for good measure. Regulars go gaga over their brekkie sandwiches, cookies, avocado toast, and cold brew, which are all easy to make disappear. Warwick
Rise ‘N Shine Coffee Bar
This cafe on a quiet side street off Route 44 near the State House, is steeped in history and charm. Order an incredible latte (pretty and tasty) while taking in the cobbler theme – an homage to the carriage house’s use in the 1950s, as well as the owner’s great-grandfather’s vocation. Details include a shoeshine stand built to replicate one from the old PVD train station. Photo ops galore. Providence
Photo (left) by Trisha Kelley Photography, courtesy of Patty J, ( top left) courtesy of Kaffeology
Rise ‘N Shine Coffee Bar
Rise ‘N Shine Coffee Bar
Stick + Fin
Surf’s up at these colorful digs on the water in downtown Westerly. You can’t miss the Cali-influence courtesy of rad owners Brian and Chiyoko Samuelson. Take in surf and skateboard culture when you pop in for a coffee, cold-pressed juice, smoothie bowl, avo toast, or baked goods. Don’t miss the patio, adjacent to the Pawcatuck River, an awesome oasis for an al fresco bite. Westerly
Less than 10 minutes from bustling Main Street in East Greenwich, discover this cozy log cabin cafe set back from the road on South County Trail. Head over for a coffee and a muffin, a casual breakfast with a friend, or lunch al fresco on the front porch or side patio. Don’t sleep on the house-made potato chips! Bonus points for signature coffee ice cubes. There’s really nowhere else like it in Lil’ Rhody. East Greenwich
Groundswell Cafe + Bakery
Wild Harvest Cafe
Presto Strange O
Food Trends: Open for the Season
Restaurants serving up plates with heaping sides of vacation vibes
Where every meal feels like vacation
Summertime means the seasonal reopening of 1639, the restaurant at Newport Harbor Island Resort on Goat Island. Named after the year Newport was founded, the expansive space boasts spectacular views and offers refined coastal dining built on New England flavors with a modern, global twist. Executive chef Ryan Connors’ menu takes its cue
from seasonal ingredients, connecting with its location’s rich maritime heritage. Fans of finishing touches, take note: both the cacio e pepe entree, a cheese-lover’s dream of pasta folded into a wheel of parmigiano, and the 1639 tiramisu, a confection of frangelico mascarpone cream, espresso-infused lady fingers, caramelized hazelnuts,
cocoa powder, are finished by a server tableside. Don’t miss the clam chowder, given a savory spin with smoked bacon velouté, and Yukon potato gnocchi. Another stand-out is the 1639 Alaskan halibut clam bake, served New England-style with littlenecks, linguica, and potatoes, in a corn broth. Newport, NewportHarborIsland.com – Elyse Major
Photo courtesy of 1639
1639 at Newport Harbor Island Resort
Reopened boutique hotel’s eatery celebrates regional flavors with twists
Inside the Wayfinder Newport, find a new restaurant that celebrates the mighty mollusk: Little Clam, led by chefs Antonio Wormley and Jake Rojas: a Johnson & Wales alum, and celebrated local chef, respectively. Their clever menu showcases locally sourced ingredients like oysters from Walrus and Carpenter in Narragansett, a Blackbird Farm (Smithfield) burger, and lamb from North Scituate’s Hopkins Southdowns, while the beverage list complements with classic and house cocktails, New England spirits, and a focused list
of local brews. Unexpected items include a roasted whole fish, and bright flourishes like horseradish gremolata. “Little Clam captures everything we love about Rhode Island — its spirit, its flavors, and its sense of community,” says Wormley. “Every dish is a conversation with the people behind the ingredients – oyster farmers, foragers, and family-run farms who make Rhode Island so dynamic. We’re excited to open our doors and share the stories that inspire every dish.” Newport, WayfinderNewport.com – Elyse Major
Follow your nose to flavor and backyard BBQ fun
This breezy barbecue on Scotts Wharf is back for the season, bringing bold flavors, creative cocktails, and a patio perfect for golden hour hangs. Now open daily for lunch and dinner, Smoke House leans into its Southern roots while mixing in new menu highlights. Returning fan favorites like hog wings, pretzels, and nachos are joined by crave-worthy newcomers, including a bubbling corn dip loaded with smoked Velveeta and topped with a cornbread-bacon crumble, and crispy fried pickles
with smoky house aioli. Mains like brisket, baby back ribs, pulled pork, and new mega-combo MOA-BBQ platter continue to steal the show. Burger lovers can sink their teeth into the Smoke Stack, a two-handed tower of BBQ pork, smoked gouda, a beer-battered onion ring, and a juicy beef patty. Even plant-based diners can dig in, thanks to a citrusy hummus and veggie wrap that delivers on flavor and freshness. Newport, SmokeHouseNewport.com – Jenna Kaplan
PIC OF THE BAY
ABOUT KAYLA
@k___elizabeth
Awkward millennial sarcastically MacGyvering my way through marriage, motherhood & life with my camera in hand.
