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N OV E M B E R 2 022

INTRODUCING THE ALL NEW 2023

MASERATI GRECALE Available now! In Stock Starting at $67,450

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Glossar y of Real Estate Terms Seller ’s M a r ke t : T he re are more buyers than homes avai l abl e. H om e s of t e n s e ll at or above the as king price. B u yer ’s M a r ke t : T he re is an ample number of homes w here b u ye rs ha ve t he ir c hoic e and can of ten negotiate a bet t er sal e p r ic e t han the as king price. Days o n M a r ke t ( D OM): The number of days on the market f rom t he f ir s t day of the lis ting until it clos es . Buyer ’s Ag e n t : T he re a l es tate agent repres ents the bu yer o nl y. S eller ’s A g e n t : T he re a l es tate agent repres ents the s el l er o nl y. Du al A g e n t : T he a g e nt repres ents both the buyer and t he sel l er. Bo th p a r t ie s ne e d t o a c k n owledge and agree to this in wri t i ng as s o o n a s it ’s k now n t ha t one agent is repres enting both par t i es. Th i s a l s o a p p lie s if a buyer ’s agent and a s eller ’s agent fal l u nd e r t he um b re lla of the s ame real es tate f irm. G o od Fa i t h D e p o s i t : Locally, agents generally do not request t his. B uye r s p ut down 10 % at contract s igning. C o n t in g e n c i e s : A ll c ontingencies need to be noted when an o f f e r i s sub m it t e d . T his may include a mor tgage or apprai sal , i n s p e c ti o ns, inc lus ions and exclus ions , and when the paper wo rk will be s igned. Pers o n a l Pro p e r t y I n c l u sions: Unles s s tated by the s el l er t hat they a re l e a v ing p e r s ona l proper ty items , I highly recommend t hat yo u d o n o t a s k f or a s e ller ’s pers onal proper ty to be incl uded i n th e d e a l. T his ha s b lown up f ar more deals than it’s wo r t h.

Insp ec tio ns: T hi s i s speci fi c t o t he ho use but c an in clu de th e overal l st ruct ure fro m t he ro o f t o t he l owest leve l, u tilitie s , rado n, po o l , w at er, wel l , HVAC sy st ems, a pplian ce s , fi repl aces, drai nage, et c. Due Dilig enc e: Lo cal l y, a buyer ’s due di l i gence pe r io d s tar ts as so o n as t hei r o f fer i s accept ed and ends o nce t he c o n trac t is s ign e d. T hi s peri o d i s w hen t he buyer co nduct s t hei r i nsp e ctio n s an d th e ir at t o rney co nduct s t he muni ci pal ho use and pro pe r ty s e arch e s . Clo sing Co sts: T hi s v ari es t ow n-by -t ow n and can in clu de atto r n ey fees, bank fees, t i t l e i nsurance, co nvey ance taxe s , an d th e co mmi ssi o n i f i t ’s a l i st i ng. Clo sing : W hen t he ho me sal e i s co nsi dered fi nal, w h ic h ty pic ally i ncl udes al l si gnat ures o n al l do cument s, mo ni es co nveye d, an d th e deed i s reco rded at t he l o cal muni ci p ality. L ea se-b a c k: If t he sel l er o r buyer w ant s t o cl o s e o n th e h o u s e befo re a sel l er can move o ut , t he cl o si ng can happe n , an d th e s e lle r can l ease-back t he ho use. T he rent al pri ce wo ul d ty pic ally cove r t he new ow ner ’s mo r t gage pay ment , pro per t y taxe s , an d ho meow ner ’s i nsurance.

Let me k now if I can help you wit h a l l yo ur real estate needs! Contact me f o r a complimentar y real-time evaluati o n o f yo ur home’s market value and a custom c hec kl i st to ready your hom e for sale.

Pers o n a l Pro p e r t y Exclusions: I f a s eller has s pecifi cal l y exc l u d e d s om e t hing in t heir lis ting, you can s till as k if the sel l er i s wi l l i n g to inc lud e it . For i ns tance, they may be on the f ence abo ut ta k i n g t he ir w a s he r a nd dr yer, or they may not want to l eave s om e t hing they think you will dis card.

20 3 .9 1 2 . 5 9 0 8 rach e l wa l sh h o m es . c o m

LIFESTYLE LETTER

November Thankful

November 2022 PUBLISHER

Laura Sabia | laura.sabia@citylifestyle.com EDITOR IAL COOR DINATOR

Kristin Burnell | kristin.burnell@citylifestyle.com

In this season of giving thanks, we often find ourselves reflecting on the many blessings in our lives. The true spirit of Thanksgiving encourages the conscious expression of gratitude. Its focus is on spending time with those that you love and encouraging giving back in a meaningful way. While ambition, competition and slaying goals can be very healthy, forgetting to place importance on being present, enjoying the ride and appreciating those around us that have helped us along in our journey, can leave us missing out on what truly matters. We’ll never be content if we look outside ourselves and at our possessions or titles to determine if we are fulfilled. True contentment comes from within and from fulfilling who we were made to be. Our November issue is dedicated to stories of gathering, gratefulness and giving back to our community. We are so thankful for the residents and businesses in our community who support so many wonderful organizations and help make Darien and New Canaan the vibrant community that it is. We are especially thankful for our advertising partners who help bring this magazine to your doorsteps each month. They are part of our vision and purpose of bringing inspiring stories and the good news of the community directly to you. This holiday season as we prepare to gather with our loved ones, and in the true spirit of thanksgiving, let’s set time aside to consider what truly makes life meaningful and stop to reflect on those blessings. Blessings to you and your family,

MANAGING EDITOR

Darien Lifestyle | darien@citylifestyle.com AD DESIGNER

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Proverbs 3:5-6 Darien Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Darien area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Darien Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the

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accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 2

inside the issue The Thankful Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

14 New Canaan Author Launches New Children’s Book

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Local Experiences

Our Town

Trend Setter

Must See

Hometown Hero

Hosting Tips

Events

Monica Berg is a bestselling author

18 Christmas at Darien Sport Shop Rich in traditions, old and new. Especially around the holidays.

22 Cugine’s Italian Restaurant opens in Stamford Harbor Point A Stamford Speakeasy

EDU CAT I O N S HO PPI NG

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city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

7 5

The Maritime STEM to Stern Ambassador team held a fundraising event at Heather Gaudio Fine Art Gallery in New Canaan. STEM to Stern, a program of USRowing, is focused on breaking down barriers that often keep students from underserved communities from participating in rowing. STEM to Stern partners with local schools and rowing clubs to support STEM education and provide access to rowing. These Ambassadors are local high school students, who row at Maritime Rowing Club in Norwalk, and are passionate about raising money and awareness to make rowing more inclusive, accessible and diverse.

C I T Y SC E N E

8-12: Helen Ainson Ribbon Cutting

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @darienlifestylemag

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / DA R I E N C T

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N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 2

local experiences The best places and things to do in our area.

Believe it or not, the Fall season is in full swing and the Holiday season is right around the corner. There are local contests, races, a balloon parade, and early-season Holiday events to get you out and about this November. And remember to 'shop small', help support our local merchants.

Seasonal Pastimes LIGHT UP R OWAYTON & EGG NOG CONTEST: Festive lights, music, shopping,

and a visit from Santa on November 27th 4:30pm to 7:00pm at Pinkney Park. THE STAMFOR D PAR ADE SPECTACULAR : One of the largest balloon parades

in the country is happening Sunday, Nov 20th from 12pm-3pm. Featuring marching bands and floats. WEEKEND WADDLE: Waddle the trails and search for nature on this Trail Trek at the New Canaan Nature Center, November 26th at 10:00am and 11:00am. THE R OWAYTON TUR KEY TR OT: event is a 5k or 1 mile Thanksgiving Day fun run, thru the town of Rowayton. Registration ends online November 24th. NEW CANAAN CAR ES FOR E CAR ES: Join this 18 hole par-tee on the lawn of St. Mark’s Church on November 8nd from 10 am – 2 pm.

Scan for more photos and the full list.

The Stamford Parade Spectacular

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ARTICLE BY KRISTIN BURNELL

Monica and her daughter, Abigail

NEW CANAAN AUTHOR LAUNCHES NEW CHILDREN’S BOOK MONICA BERG IS A BESTSELLING AUTHOR

O UR TOWN | ED U CATION

Monica Berg is an international speaker, bestselling author (Fear Is Not an Option, Rethink Love), and co-host of the Spiritually Hungry podcast. This multi-hyphenate is a globally sought-after speaker, spiritual thought leader and researcher of human habits that hold us back.

DL: CAN YOU TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT “THE GIFT OF BEING DIFFERENT?” MB: When our daughter Abigail was little, she struggled with reading. Not the usual preschool alphabet-mix-up kind of struggle; I mean, she really struggled. We didn't learn until much later that this struggle had to do with a learning difference. Finally, two years ago, when she was diagnosed with dyslexia, she asked me if this meant she was stupid. I wanted to reframe this diagnosis for her, and Abigail didn't want to feel ashamed anymore, nor did she want other kids like her to feel ashamed. Instead, we wanted to convey the idea that often, our greatest gifts are hiding within our struggles. In other words, our differences can be our superpowers!

DL: WHY DID YOU (MONICA) AND YOUR DAUGHTER DECIDE TO WRITE THIS BOOK? WHAT IS THE REASON BEHIND IT? MB: One of the most powerful messages in “The Gift of Being Different” is that the very things that make you different can also be your greatest strengths. It can be your superpower. Abigail did not read with proficiency until the third grade. But she did have a voice. And she believed in herself and her story. So, we set out to write a children’s book that will invite readers to embrace the parts of them that feel different.

MONICA BERG

DL: WHAT DO YOU HOPE COMES OUT OF THIS STORY FOR CHILDREN READING IT OR PARENTS READING IT TO THEIR KIDS? MB: We hope it inspires readers to think about the things that they feel limit them and then rethink those limits because so many of them are self-imposed and not real at all! We hope that our book will shine a light on the many tremendous superpowers we are each born with but do not recognize. I want readers who feel different, out of step, or like they just don’t quite fit in to know that they are not alone, and there are other children working through similar

CONTINUED >

Monica Berg NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / DA R I E N C T

“Instead, we wanted to convey the idea that often, our greatest gifts are hiding within our struggles. In other words, our differences can be our superpowers!”

challenges which can be overcome. And most importantly, they are not wrong, or broken, but uniquely, and perfectly, different. Consider the challenges that you (or your child, or someone else close to you) may face due to an aspect of yourself that runs contrary to the mainstream. All too often, we equate "different" with "lesser," when in truth, the opposite is often the case! Whether it's a learning difference, a physical difference, or another way that you do or see things differently, your uniqueness is part of your wonder. The world doesn't need more cookie-cutter ways of being— the world needs originality! And there's no one who can do what you can do in exactly the same way.

DL: WHAT WAS IT LIKE WRITING A BOOK WITH YOUR THEN 8-YEAR-OLD DAUGHTER? SO IMPRESSIVE! MB: Inspiring. I am frequently and continuously inspired by all four of my children.

O UR TOWN | ED U CATION

I love seeing their process of self-discovery, acceptance, and self-love and seeing the world through their eyes. I feel privileged to help them navigate their lives, especially the parts that are challenging. It took me decades to arrive at a place of feeling very comfortable in my own skin and to understand that the parts of myself that I tried to hide were the ones that shined the brightest. I am proud. The Gift of Being Different is the first of the ON BEING book series that follows Abigail as she makes her way through her young life with the beautiful messiness of it all. This is a series of ten picture books written for children ages 5-10. The series also explores global issues like homelessness, shame, fear, and empathy. Set in present-day New York, the stories are told with humor, authenticity, and a powerful message to celebrate and embrace our differences.

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Christmas at Darien Sport Shop

Rich in traditions, old and new. Especially around the holidays. ARTICLE BY ANNA BARNE S

T R E N D SE T T E R | SHOPPI NG

Years ago, when I first moved to Fairfield County, downtown Darien became one of my most favorite places to explore. I’d drive down Post Road but inevitably would pass by the iconic Darien Sport Shop. I never stopped because, truthfully, I didn’t need any sports equipment. After a recommendation from a friend, I made my way inside and was truly blown away by the incredible fashion, accessories, and of course, sports equipment inside. It's no surprise that the name, Darien Sport Shop, is an ode to exactly how the establishment originated back in 1946. Stephen Zangrillo, known as ‘Mr. Z’ opened the store at just 22 years old after returning from WWII. A studied merchant, Mr. Z grew the business based around a guiding philosophy: treat your customers like they are old friends, and they’ll keep coming back. And they have. When his daughter, Gina joined the business full-time in 1994, the once sport-centric shop began to expand its inventory to men’s and women’s clothing. In fact, they even took a chance on two guys carrying a backpack full of ties in the late 90’s and therefore became one of the first retailers to carry the now, well-known brand Vineyard Vines. Today, Darien Sport Shop carries a myriad of upscale brands and designers. Brands like Ulla Johnson, Peter Millar, Ralph Lauren, Kinross, and more are beautifully displayed within the expansive store. A few years ago, a customer recommended to Gina they carry the brand Faherty. When their buyer liked it, they brought it into the store, and today it’s one of their best-selling lines. Gina’s son, and Mr. Z’s grandson, Greg Reilly, who is now the men’s buyer and heads up marketing, happily admits, “We have some really well-connected customers. They know what they’re talking about, so we listen to what they are seeing in their travels and daily life.” Aside from their excellent fashion sense, the store also stocks an array of chic home goods perfect for a birthday, hostess, or housewarming gifts. Truthfully, there aren’t many things that Darien Sport Shop doesn’t carry. You name it, they likely have it. As Greg says, “Where else can you get a cashmere sweater and a trampoline?” DSS is a wonderful mélange of traditions, old and new. Trunk shows pop up throughout the calendar and they’ve started hosting fabulous fashion shows where the community can get together to view the season’s latest and greatest. But true to their roots, they still offer complimentary alterations for the life of their garments and continue to be a generous donor to local charities in our community. Perhaps their most beloved tradition is the yearly Christmas tree lighting which dates back to 1978. That year, in celebration of the season, Mr. Z decided to light his recently planted Christmas tree in the back lot on the Sunday after Thanksgiving. That original tree grew to be over 100 feet tall but was unfortunately lost in a bad storm back in 2010. A new tree has been growing strong CONTINUED > NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / DA R I E N C T

for the last 12 years and carrying on the Darien Sport Shop Christmas tradition.The celebration that day usually kicks off around 4:30 pm with live music, holiday treats, refreshments and caroling as Santa Claus (the real one) rides into town aboard a shiny, red firetruck courtesy of the Noroton Fire Department. After he makes his way through the crowd, he leads a countdown until the tree is inaugurally lit for the season. But as far as holiday festivities go, the shop doesn’t stop there. The entire holiday season is filled with extra cheer at Darien Sport Shop. The team offers complimentary gift wrapping and will even hold your presents to thwart plans of mischievous present seekers. On Saturdays in December, there’s live music and plenty of refreshments to calm any holiday stressors. While Santa normally pops in throughout the season, he was relegated to Facetime the last few years due to the pandemic. But if you ask me, anywhere that keeps Santa on speed dial is a place you want to be.

1. Mark your calendar for the Annual Darien Sport Shop Christmas Tree Lighting on Sunday, November 27th at 4:30 pm. 2. Mischievous, pre-holiday present seekers on your hands? Darien Sport Shop will hold your holiday gifts so they can magically appear under the tree. 3. Don’t miss brands: Peter Millar, Vince, Ulla Johnson, Faherty, Stio, Rhone and more!

T R E N D SE T T E R | SHOPPI NG

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NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / DA R I E N C T

E IN

CUG

N RESTAURA

S E’

LIA ITA

STAMFORD HARBOR POINT

ARTICLE BY MEGAN SCHINELLA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LULI BURKE PHOTOGRAPHY

M UST SE E | FOOD + BEV E RAGE

Stamford Restaurateurs John and Morgan Nealonare the owners of the new Italian restaurant named, Cugine’s Italian, located in Stamford's Harbor Point community at 121 Towne Street. The new upscale, well-plated Italian cuisine restaurant, featuring 80-seats space of fine dining in a sophisticated and elegant environment. An extremely relaxing and inviting color scheme of dark green and gold, plus antique crystal chandeliers, and dimmed mood lighting. The entrance to the new Cugine’s Italian in Stamford is nondescript and isn’t marked by an obvious sign. Instead, guests walk into a dark entryway to find a welcoming vibrant and detailed floral mural, and shelves filled with vases of artificial flowers. Cugine's Italian is definitely not another laid-back pizzeria, more so an entirely new Italian dining experience. A truly sophisticated restaurant that will take guests a step back in time to the era of Frank Sinatra, a dining and bar experience like no other in the area. The food menu is a true reflection of Chef Rick O’Connor experience, featuring local farm fresh ingredients compliment the upscale Italian cuisine, house-made pastas, and fresh seafood. The cocktail offerings pay homage to classic drink recipes, along with a full robust wine list offering bottles or wines by the glass. Menu picks for appetizers the meatballs, steamed clams with Calabrian chili butter, and crostini with whipped ricotta and roasted grapes. Highly recommend the tuna foie with shaved frozen foie and torched pickled strawberry. The shareable vegetable zucchini dish with shaved raw and grilled with mint salsa verde, Brussels honey and mixed mushrooms was absolutely delicious. The fresh housemade pastas spaghetti boia and ricotta cavatelli pesto. For dessert the tiramis and pistachio cannoli. At the bar: cheers to the Savoy (bourbon, amaro, maraschino liquor, and orange). The Martini Rainbow Room (vodka or gin, sherry, honey, salt).

Spaghetti dish Step back in time to the era of Frank Sinatra.

Reservations can be made on the Open Table website or by calling 203.276.9266 and walk-ins are always welcome. Cugine’s Italian is open Thursday 4pm-11pm, Friday 4pm-11pm, Saturday 11am-11:30pm, Sunday 11am-8pm.

RICOTTA GNOCCHI DISH:

C U G I N E ’ S I TA L I A N NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / DA R I E N C T

THE PERFECT TREAT FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON!

H OM E TOWN H E R O | LOCAL S E RVI CE S

Indulge in the Perfect Decadent Dessert with Rebel Daughter Cookies ANNE GROSSMAN If you haven't heard of Rebel Daughter Cookies, now is the time to hop on the rebel daughter bandwagon! Anne Grossman is the powerhouse behind the business with a kitchen located in Norwalk, making the most delicious gooey cookies that you will that will make you melt at the first bite.

DL: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START YOUR BUSINESS? AG: In September of 2019, my daughter was 6 months old and my son was 3; despite always wanting to be a stay-at-home mom, and now with 2 beautiful kids, I still felt like something was missing. I'd always been creative and realized I missed having a creative outlet, something all to myself. I told my husband I was going to start baking again and I was making it my goal to recreate the big, gooey chocolate chunk cookies I would get every weekend together when we lived in Brooklyn but couldn't find in the suburbs. After force-feeding my husband half-batches of cookies every other day, about a month later he told me I'd finally gotten "the" recipe.

DL: WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE? AG: My biggest challenge has always been balancing motherhood to 2 young children (now 3.5 and 6 yrs old) while running a quickly-growing business that is essentially a third child. I've learned that work/life balance is a facade; something will always have to give, and that's okay... I know I'm setting a good example for them by creating this company from the ground up and showing my

ARTICLE BY KRISTIN BURNELL PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEFANIE COLE PHOTOGRAPHY

daughter, especially, that girls can be both great mothers and business leaders. My kids love to tell everyone their mom runs Rebel Daughter Cookies!

DL: WHAT INSPIRES YOU? AG: I'm inspired by take-charge women who know their worth and everyday rebels: people who push back against the status quo, unafraid to be authentically themselves: nonconformists who passionately pursue their dreams, fight for the greater good, and when they truly believe in something, they don't take no for an answer.

DL: HOW IS YOUR COOKIE BUSINESS DIFFERENT THAN SO MANY OTHERS? AG: To start, we source the best ingredients worldwide, no compromises: I'm talking Guittard and Ghirardelli chocolates; vanilla beans sourced directly from a vanilla farm in Madagascar to make our own extract in-house; loads of premium vanilla bean paste, and small-batch chocolate sea salt, to name a few. Each new cookie recipe I create is tirelessly reworked until it's perfected; we don't simply throw different toppings into the same dough and call it new. Each cookie is made in our kitchen by hand, not dropped on a tray with a cookie scoop or shot out of a mold. And finally, we donate a portion of annual profits to 2 non-profits focused on maternal health and child well-being. This year our 2 partner charities are the global org Every Mother Counts and Norwalk Acts, based in Norwalk, CT.

CONTINUED > NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / DA R I E N C T

DL: TALK TO US ABOUT THE CHARITABLE COMPONENT OF YOUR BUSINESS. AG: It was important to me when I started this business that my company was able to make the world a better place and give back in some small way; otherwise, what's the point? As a mother myself, it was important to me to focus on non-profits helping other moms and their kids who may not be as fortunate as me and my family have been.

DL: WORD OF ADVICE TO ASPIRING FOODIE ENTREPRENEURS? AG: Don't be afraid of failing. In fact, fail as quickly as possible, as early on as possible, and learn from those mistakes. Failure teaches you way more than success ever could. When you're exhausted or discouraged, take time to rest and regroup. But whatever you do, look for ways to win--not give up. Rebel Daughter cookies take orders online at rebeldaughtercookies.com. They also deliver from Stamford up to Fairfield, offer free pickup at their storefront (21 Isaacs Street, Norwalk) and ship nationwide.

H OM E TOWN H E R O | LOCAL S E RVI CE S

NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / DA R I E N C T

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Your Autumn Dinner Party Is Served Catering experts Chef Kyle and Hannah Williams, owners of Savor & Swirl culinary company, create an outdoor dinner party with chef-driven perennial dishes served in beautiful seasonal settings.

For this alfresco Autumn Dinner Party, Chef Kyle draws on favorite fall recipes updated for a modern palate and paired with wine selections to complement the bountiful feast. Hannah creates an iconic autumn ambiance using artisanal table settings and mixed flannels for each guest to blanket any chill on a brisk evening. Whether for Friendsgiving, Thanksgiving or a new November tradition, it’s time to get outdoors again surrounded in sweater-weather coziness while sharing bites and clinks with family and friends.

“Thin k f l an n el bl an k ets , woo d e n t a bl es , f ire pit s , o pe n g r ill s , st r ing light s an d can dl es to c reat e a really cool e nv iron m e nt you h ave n’t bee n a bl e to d o all s u m m e r.”

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Insider Tips for Hosting:

• Build a menu around the season. “In November, people crave turkey, sage stuffing and cranberry sauce,” Chef Kyle says. “Autumn dinners mean bigger-course meals with varied proteins, like turkey, duck and sirloin, hearty starches, and good fall produce, especially root vegetables such as butternut squash and pumpkin.” • Always greet guests with a beverage and appetizers. “Offer champagne for wine-lovers or a sparkling drink or signature cocktail. It’s all about serving guests to the highest caliber,” Kyle says. • Draw inspiration from the season’s changing colors, cooler temps and lower humidity to move back outdoors. “Think flannel blankets, wooden tables, fire pits, open grills, string lights and candles to create a really cool environment you haven’t been able to do all summer.” • “You can’t go wrong with fresh flowers,” Hannah says, “but keep bouquets low to not interfere with conversation flowing. For fall, I like richer, jewel-toned florals to mix and match and keep whimsical. I vary glass vases with burnished brass for warm fall vibes.” • An easy but thoughtful detail is to put a simple menu at each place setting, so guests know what to expect. “Add a pen, so guests can jot tasting notes, especially for wine pairings or multiple courses,” Hannah says. “Guests can share comments, then take the menu home as a sweet reminder of the event.” • Follow the French principle of mise en place or everything in place before your event. “This is actually our company’s name,” Kyle says. “It’s that important to us. Make sure the wines are all open, cocktails are pre-made, place settings are out, candles are lit and music is playing. When guests arrive, it gives that wow-factor and shows you intentionally made them feel special.” • To build confidence as a host, start small and practice. “Keep the menu and guest list small,” Kyle says. “Choose recipes you already have confidence in. If you make a great Beef Stroganoff, then go with that. People will love it!” • As fun as it is to dine outside, always have an indoors back-up plan. “We’ve had to bring it indoors before,” Hannah says. “It’s still fun.” CONTINUED > NOVEMB ER 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / DA R I E N C T

Wine Pairing

According to Savor & Swirl, wine pairing doesn’t need to be overly complicated for a casual outdoor dinner party. Have a lighter and fuller body style of white and red available with some sparkling thrown in. “Lighter to medium-bodied wines from Rhône Valley, Italy or California would be a good place to start,” they state. “Viognier is one of our favorite wines that goes great with fall-inspired cuisines. Pinot Noir wine goes great with just about any food. Lean towards California or Willamette Valley for a new-world style and go with France for a more earthy, old-world style. A big bold Napa Cab would fall in perfectly for the grilled ribeye steak! Cheers!”

Want to see more? Scan the QR code for dinner menu recipes. ABOUT SAVOR & SWIRL Chef Kyle Williams has over 22 years of experience in the elite culinary industry, including 2 Michelin-starred restaurants in Italy, resorts in Hawaii, and alongside prestigious NYC celebrity chefs Todd English, David Burke, and Daniel Boulud. Savor & Swirl has recently expanded to include nationwide mobile catering. Book online, and they will bring their expertise to you, including customizable, in-home dinner parties or luncheons for holidays, events, business gatherings and surprise pop-ups. “We love to gather with people who value breaking bread together around a table with the special people in their lives.” savorandswirl.com Instagram: @savorandswirl, #savorandswirl

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events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

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Designed to Dine Community Luncheon

WEE BURN COUN TRY CLUB 41 0 H O L LOW T R E E R I DG E R D, DA R I E N, C T | 1 0 :30 A M This incredible luncheon, benefiting The Community Fund, will feature a select group of the area’s finest 30 designers, who will each present an imaginative tablescape that is reflective of their own unique style and imagination. In addition, our featured speakers are renowned husband and wife Pilar Guzman and Chris Mitchell.

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Knit One, Crochet Too

DA R IEN LIBR ARY - 1441 POST R D, DA R I E N, C T 0 6 8 20 | 2:0 0 P M Calling all fiber artists! Whether you're a casual knitter, an expert crocheter, or dabble in loom weaving, join us as we create and chat. Bring your projects, get tips, and learn from one another. All skill levels welcome. This is a hybrid event. Participants have the option to join in person at the Library or on Zoom.

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40th Reunion New Canaan High School Class of '82

ROG ER S HERMAN IN N 195 OENO K E R I DG E , NE W CA NA A N, C T | 5 :0 0 P M Wow! It's hard to believe it's been 40 years! Celebrate with each other and reminisce in our beautiful home town. Dress is smart casual. The event will be in the Garden Room with access to porch and yard so bring a jacket. They will have heaters.

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Run with the Saints

18 64 POST RD, DARIEN , CT Run with the Saints 5k run or 1 mile Kids run or 1 Mile walk on November 6, 2022 at 11:35. Starts and finishes at St. Luke's Church in Darien CT. All walkers and kids under 10 should do the 1 mile walk.

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The Waters Edge at Giovanni's 2022 DOTAA Annual Dinner

THE WATERS EDGE AT GIOVANNI'S - 2748 BOSTON POST RD, DARIEN, CT 06820, USA | 6:00 PM This annual event allows the Darien Old Timers Athletic Association to fund scholarships for Darien High School student-athletes and provide monetary support to other local programs that have a recognized need. It is also a time to meet with old friends and to reminisce about days gone by.

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Home for the Holidays at Nielsen's Florist & Garden Shop

NI ELS EN 'S FLOR IST & GAR DEN S H O P - 1 4 0 5 P O ST R OA D DA R I E N, C T 0 6 8 20 | 5 :0 0 P M Kickstart the holiday season at Nielsen's with hors d'oeuvres, wine and stunning tablescapes created by Nielsen's very own designers. Be one of the first to view and shop their 2022 holiday showroom as the store becomes a magical winter wonderland. There will be raffle prizes, carol singing and a portion of the sales will go to Darien EMS-Post 53.

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The DCA Duo Piano Group Fall Concert

T HE DARIEN COMMUN ITY AS S O C I AT I O N - 27 4 MI DDL E S E X R D, DA R I E N, C T | 4 :0 0 P M The DCA Duo Piano Group is an enthusiastic group of accomplished amateur pianists who play together for fun and to continue their musical education. Members practice weekly in their director’s studio, and perform twice-yearly concerts to help support the mission of the DCA. Enjoy an afternoon of live music for the whole family!

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HAYVN Young Professionals & Entrepreneurs Group

H AYVN - 320 BOSTON POST ROA D #S UI T E 1 8 0 DA R I E N, C T 0 6 8 20 | 5 :0 0 P M Are you under 30 and looking to grow your career or business, make connections and learn from your peers? Introducing HAYVN Young Professionals & Entrepreneurs Group led by Amanda Miller. This group will bring young entrepreneurs together to support professional development and strategies for success in their business or their job. November's topic: Promotions & Salary Negotiation

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New Canaan Turkey Trot

Come run the New Canaan Turkey Trot race in New Canaan this November (date is estimated).

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Small Business Saturday

LOCAL S HOPS AN D STORES IN O UR C O MMUNI T Y The dollars you spend on Small Business Saturday make a difference beyond retailers' doors. Small businesses create local jobs and pay local taxes, which keeps money circulating within communities. Check your favorite local retailers' websites and social media pages for store offerings, hours and event announcements in the days leading up to Small Business Saturday. You can also find participating businesses online using the American Express Shop Small map or by exploring hashtags like #shopsmall and #SmallBusinessSaturday.

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