Summer
Summer has finally arrived, bringing with it endless possibilities for enjoyment and exploration in our beautiful Darien and New Canaan communities.
As we bask in the warmth and long, sunny days, I’m thrilled to share with you the highlights of our July issue, packed with inspiration and tips to make the most of this vibrant season.
First up, we’re excited to feature @Styleelyst’s summer picks. Dive into the latest trends and find your perfect summer wardrobe. Whether you’re hitting the beach or attending a chic garden party, these curated selections will ensure you stay stylish all season long.
We’re also excited to share Megan Schinella's top picks for staying local this summer. Megan has compiled a list of must-visit spots and hidden gems right here in Connecticut. Her recommendations will help you discover new places and experiences without having to travel far.
And let’s not forget about your smile! Dr. Beckie offers fantastic tips on making sure you keep your smile healthy all summer long. With her expert advice, you can maintain great dental health while enjoying all the delicious treats summer has to offer.
Lastly, our travel features will inspire you to embark on new adventures. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a longer vacation, we have some great recommendations to help you make unforgettable memories this summer.
As always, thank you for being part of our Darien and New Canaan Lifestyle community. We hope this issue brings you joy, inspiration, and practical tips to enhance your summer experience. Here’s to a season filled with sunshine, laughter, and cherished moments.
July 2024
PUBLISHER
Laura Sabia | laura.sabia@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Kristin Burnell | kristin.burnell@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Emma Parente | emma.parente@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ashley Cannon, Megan Schinella, Sarah True
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Abby Cole Photography, Molly Cournoyer, Mindy Briar Photography
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
Proverbs 3:5-6
Mindy Briar
city scene
1 - 14: Hayvn's April Gather & Gab: You Can Thank Me Later Book Launch by Laura Sabia. Featuring entrepreneur/author Laura Sabia, Q&A moderator Nancy Sheed, sponsors Nit Noi, One Hope Winery, and non-profit Girls With Impact.
Photography by Molly Cournoyer
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Filling in the Blanks Receives IMPACT Fairfield County $100,000 Grant
Filling in the Blanks is one of the recipients of $100,000 Grants given by IMPACT Fairfield County. After undertaking a comprehensive review of applications and conducting thorough site visits, members selected the five finalists, and ultimately the two winners, based on criteria including the organization’s demonstrated impact, the population served, and the long-term sustainability of the project. Filling in the Blanks and Boys and Girls Club of Stamford won the $100,000 grants.
THE STYLE LIST BY @STYLEELYST
READY: SUMMER STAPLES
The summer season is in full swing and these are the staples that I will be wrapping myself with, on repeat.
LNA | FOUNDATION PIECES THAT FILL GAPS IN YOUR CLOSET
Featuring a Sophie Rib Halter Top in Heather White, $95 and Steph Rib Skirt in Heather White, $125. Lightweight, buttery soft and the perfect beach outfit for all your coastal events. Elevate your daily dressing.
lnaclothing.com | @lnaclothing
PARIS/64 | 100% SPANISH SAVOIR-FAIRE
Featuring Mini Lumière Rafia & Black, $370. This quality bag is made of cowhide leather, linen and raffia. Its elegant silhouette and sophistication add a point of interest to any ensemble. Pair with both casual and elevated warm weather looks.
paris64.com | @paris64world
RIVIERA
TIMELESS
ARTICLE BY ASHLEY CANNON
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY CANNON/@STYLEELYST & BRAND IMAGERY
FENDI | CREATIVITY, FUN & CRAFTSMANSHIP
SINCE 1925
Featuring the Roma oval-frame Tortoiseshell Acetate Sunglasses , $380. Timeless Italian glamour with tonal brown lenses. Chic.
fendi.com | @fendi
FAVORITE DAUGHTER | A CLOTHING LINE BY SARA & ERIN FOSTER
Featuring The Favorite Linen Dress in White,$298 This classic linen-blend maxi makes a big statement. The strapless neckline and back smocking enhance your body, while the pockets (yes, pockets!) add a touch of practicality.
shopfavoritedaughter.com | @favorite.daughter
MYAMIA | INSPIRED BY YESTERDAY, DESIGNED FOR TODAY AND CREATED FOR A LIFETIME
Featuring the Links Medium Stud , $185. Subtle, yet noticeable. Classic, yet unique. Anytime I want to swap my diamond studs for a statement earring, these are my go-to.
myamia-store.com | @myamia_store
ST. AGNI
Featuring the Bon Bon Bag in Stone Blue, $245 . Curated from supple, soft leather and accented with a 100% organic cotton lining, this bag is not only sleek with its crescent shape but will add a whimsical aspect to your wardrobe this summer season. This bag will see you through everyday styling and special occasions alike.
st-agni.com | @stagnistudio
CUYANA | LIVE FEWER, BETTER. EVERY DAY.
Featuring the Small Zipper Pouch in Daffodil Pebbled Leather, $98 (add monogram for $15). The pop of yellow on this little number has me swooning, it is rich, yet neutral and will pair well with anything ‘summer’. I love the versatility – the fact that you can wear solo as a clutch or put in a tote as an organizer is a total win. The piece itself looks far more expensive than it is, and it will be a staple in my closet for years to come.
cuyana.com | @cuyana
PAOLA SIGHINOLFI | CONTEMPORARY JEWELRY WITH COLOMBIAN ITALIAN SOUL HANDCRAFTED IN BARCELONA
Featuring Nomad 18KT Gold-Plated Bracelet, $474. Utterly stunning. Pairs well with everything. Add to cart immediately.
paolasighinolfi.com | @paolasighinolfi_
THE ROW | THE PERFECT PAJAMAS DO EXIST
Featuring the Link topstitched leather sandals, $890. Slip on and go sandals that literally go with everything. You won’t regret adding these to your wardrobe.
therow.com | @therow
MAISON FRANCIS KURKDJIAN | FRENCH HOUSE OF FRAGRANCE CREATION
Featuring the 724 Eau De Parfum, 6.08 oz , $535. A city symphony: Musky floral eau de parfum blends crisp bergamot and airy florals with comforting sandalwood and white musk, reflecting the energy and elegance of urban life.
Top Notes | Italian bergamot, Aldehydes
Heart Notes | Floral bouquet, Egyptian Jasmine absolute, Sweet pea, Mock orange
Base Notes | Sandalwood, White musk accord franciskurkdjian.com | @maisonfranciskurkdjian
To see my fashion, beauty and lifestyle selects on the daily, be sure to head to styleelyst.com and follow me on social @styleelyst | Psst. keep your eyes peeled for The Style List in the 2024 issues of both Greenwich and Darien New Canaan Lifestyle Magazines. In addition to being a style columnist, Ashley Cannon is a fashion/lifestyle influencer (@styleelyst/styleelyst.com), mother and marketing specialist. She resides in Fairfield County, CT with her husband, daughter and yellow lab.
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Find Your Dream Smile
WITH WILTON DENTAL ASSOCIATES
ARTICLE BY KRISTIN BURNELL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABBY COLE
Rebecca D’Andrea, DDS, always had a dream to create a small-town dental practice and so she did. Wilton Dental Associates offers unmatched dental care going beyond just dental cleanings. Dr. D'Andrea, also known as 'Dr. Beckie D'Andrea' offers a unique approach at her practice, while also providing an important level of education to her patients. Our conversation with Dr. D'Andrea will show just how well her office does this. Not only does her all women led team provide exceptional care, they are also extremely involved in the community. From cosmetic dentistry, general & family dentistry, to oral surgery the team at Wilton Dental Associates does it all!
We are thrilled to introduce you to Dr. D'Andrea and share the work that she does in and outside of her office.
DNCL: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START YOUR OWN BUSINESS AND HOW DID THE IDEA FOR YOUR DENTAL PRACTICE COME ABOUT?
RD: It may sound corny but I wanted to have my own practice to create a special place for people to work and a place where patients could find their “dental home”. I also wanted the challenge to push myself out of my comfort zone. I wanted to have my own practice because I wanted to create a platform where I could serve and do dentistry from a whole-istic perspective. I wanted to create an office where I could treat people as if they were coming to my home. And lastly, I am a single mom with 3 incredible daughters and I wanted to show them that they can have their own business and never to let anything stop them from going after their goals and dreams!
DNCL: HOW HAVE YOU OVERCOME ANY COMMUNITY-SPECIFIC CHALLENGES?
RD: I am happy to report that I have been welcomed into the community. My colleagues in the dental and medical field in
our community have been welcoming and kind. Wilton has a dental study club that is very inclusive. Dental school is more than 50% women and I feel like woman have wonderful equality and respect in our profession. I have met several other woman business owners who have shared resources that have been helpful. I have worked with the members of the Rotary Club, amazing men and women. Camille Carriero, the Director of the Chamber of Commerce and member of the Rotary Club, makes being part of our community so enriching and everything she does is so well organized.
I have had the pleasure of working with Suma Iyer; she is active at the Wilton YMCA and organizes fund raisers for the local swim club.
Balancing professional pursuits with personal life in our community is quite easy and encouraged!
There are countless community events every month to get out and make memories with your family and have fun like Circle of Care 5k Run, the annual Carnival at the Miller Driscoll School, tons of events at Ambler Farms, excellent local theater at The Wilton Playhouse, the epic 80’s party at the Trackside Teen Center and the Annual Wilton Woman’s Club Fashion Show Fundraiser or just take a hike around Weir Pond. We attend as an office and have made so many wonderful memories together.
I would recommend for woman trying to find harmony between professional and personal life from the professional side to join the Chamber of Commerce and the Wilton Woman’s Club for comradery and join one or our local fitness or yoga gyms.
DNCL: ARE THERE ANY LOCAL ADVOCACY INITIATIVES YOU'RE INVOLVED IN?
RD: We sponsor a breast cancer survivor during Breast Cancer Awareness month to come to our office for complimentary services such as Elise Ackerman. For every
CONTINUED >
"I wanted to create an office where I could treat people as if they were coming to my home."
"As dental professionals, we have a birds eye view of the holes we breathe from and know what to look for that indicates a potential problem."
new patient to our office we donate a free oral health kit to a person in need. We have made the most impact in our communities growth and development by supporting events and fundraisers for the Wilton YMCA, Circle of Care, Trackside Teen Center and the Chamber of Commerce. We also love supporting projects that our patients are involved with such as art shows and local theater. We support our patient who founded Traffic Jam, a non profit to raise awareness for human trafficking. We are also supporters of Thrive Wellness, an amazing organization that supports people living with cancer. We work with the Village Market for our catering and frequent Cactus Rose for our office outings.
DNCL: HOW HAVE YOU USED YOUR INFLUENCE OR PLATFORM TO CHAMPION POSITIVE CHANGE FOR WOMEN?
RD: We are a woman owned business and all women employed company. We haven’t done anything formally in this regard but I think just by who we are and operating as we are we have an influence. I am open to doing more in this area.
A cause I am deeply passionate about is: in our office, we take a holistic approach and have an in depth knowledge about sleep disorders and how they can be diagnosed and treated in the dental office.
After attending a course 8 years ago and learning that many kids and adults are misdiagnosed as having ADHD when in reality they have an airway issue, I had to learn more!
As dental professionals, we have a birds eye view of the holes we breathe from and know what to look for that indicates a potential problem. Sleep Disordered Breathing presents itself as tooth grinding, clenching, TMJ pain, crowded teeth, tongue ties, migraines and headaches. This is also related to anxiety, depression, acid reflux and poor sleep!
Many people are misdiagnosed as having ADHD when in reality they have a space, shape and anatomy issue in their nose and mouth that is causing us to be deprived of proper oxygen and sleep.
DNCL: WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL EMPOWERMENT STORIES THAT COME TO MIND?
RD: Two woman warriors come to mind. Officer Elise Ackerman, Wilton Police Officer and mother of 2 young children, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2019. She currently serves our community as a School Resource Officer. She is a courageous survivor and warrior and we are honored to have her as a patient. The second person that comes to mind is Camille, our tireless and amazing Director of the Wilton Chamber of Commerce. She welcomed me with open arms, introduced me to many local business owners and helped me plan an Open House. From the Scarecrow Contest to the amazing Farmers Market season, she connects the community, its residents and business owners together and is a gift to our town.
DNCL: ANY CHALLENGES AND TRIUMPHS YOU HAVE GONE THROUGH?
RD: Besides buying a dental practice during COVID, my biggest obstacle was myself. Being a leader that comes from a place of integrity, strength, respect and compassion has always been a goal of mine. I have worked with both an executive coach and life coach as well as listened to countless audio books, webinars and podcasts to improve myself as a leader, a business person and just to be a better human. I am in a Master Mind accountability group and have attended several Tony Robbins events.
TO LEARN MORE VISIT: @wilton_dental_associates || www.wiltondentalassoc.com
TOP 5 LOCAL EXPERIENCES:
Favorite local restaurant: Cactus Rose
Favorite thing to do on the weekends: Go listen to live music, Bikram yoga, trail run
Favorite place to visit: The Maritime Aquarium
Favorite local business: B Chic, Classically Cate, Tusk and Cup
Hobbies: Trail running in Mianus River Park, paddle boarding on the waterways in Stamford, hanging out at Todd’s Point, Jazz Forum in Tarrytown, gardening, making homemade Kahlua.
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We come as close to natural lighting as possible, installing lighting that blends into your environment making it understated and welcoming. When lighting is installed properly, you can’t tell where it’s coming from!
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SUMMER DREAMING
ARTICLE BY SARAH TRUE, TRUE EVENT PHOTOGRAPHY BY MINDY BRIAR PHOTOGRAPHY
Both looks represent a style that transcends decades.
The elevated camp setting of Cedar Lakes Estate in New York proved to be the perfect setting for a summer styled shoot. In the heart of Hudson Valley, this estate is a dream location for a destination wedding. Guests can enjoy a weekend of yoga, canoeing, swimming in the lake, and so much more – it’s the perfect little escape outside of the city.
Inspired by the setting and the season, I wanted to design a table that was elegant but not fussy. A tablescape that highlights the colors of the season - leaning into vibrant hues of pink and red with a variety of shades of white and green and a perfect pop of purple.
Yumiko Fletcher from Hana Floral Design selected a combination of bold and soft flowers that created movement and wove in texture. Her use of a variety of seasonal blooms including tulips, clematis, sweet pea, poppies and fresh on the vine tomatoes helped create a garden inspired, whimsical, al fresco table that set the tone for the day. CONTINUED >
The layering of the patterns of multiple dishes atop a rattan placemat and custom linen helped to build the depth of the table.
The foundation of the design was custom, hand painted china from Squiggle rentals, complemented by flatware and glassware. Pattern linens are a big trend this year, and I love how they create a unique setting making it feel more unique and less traditional. It is a great way to personalize the design and make it feel custom.
Erica Bryniczka, from Erica Jean Calligraphy, hand wrote the escort cards on lucite adorned with pressed flowers that coordinated with the palette of the fresh flowers on the table. It is the little details like this that truly make an event unique and memorable. We have found that handwritten pieces help to personalize each event.
Shannon Vindiola, from Yozo Studio, created the paper suite to continue to build off of the design and tie in all of the little details on the table.
Ana Parzych, from Ana Parzych Cakes, is one of the most talented cake designers with a passion for detail and perfection. She creates one-of-a-kind masterpieces and her cakes taste as incredible as they look!
A Little Something White provided the fashion for the bride and the groom. Looks that are both timeless yet with a modern twist from the midnight blue tuxedo by J. Hilburn to the alencon lace detailed bridal gown by Caroline Castigliano styled with a clean cathedral length veil.
MINDY BRIAR
Mindy Briar is a wedding and portrait photographer based in New England, New York and Hawaii. Mindy specializes in fine art portraiture, blending digital and film mediums to capture timeless moments. Her passion for history and design deeply influences her work, allowing her to focus on the intricate details that make each photograph unique. Her approach is tailored to each client, ensuring that every session reflects the individual beauty and personality of her clients.
Colorful china was layered and complemented by lush florals that stretched down the table in an eclectic mix of rattan vases and stone compotes.
painted menus - with both
Planning & Design: True Event @trueevent
Photographer: Mindy Briar Photography @mindybriarphotography
Floral: Hana Floral @hanafloral
Venue: Cedar Lakes Estate @thesistersofcedarlakes
Paper: Yozo Studio @yozostudio
Calligraphy: Erica Jean Calligraphy @ericajeancalligraphy
Cake: Ana Parzych Cakes @anaparzychcakes
China, Glassware, Flatware, Linen: Squiggle Rentals @squigglerentals
Models: Alexander & Amber @amberandalexanderayer
Hair & Makeup: Makeup By Flynn @makeupby_flynn
Dress: A Little Something White @alittlesomethingwhitebridal @CarolineCastigliano
Tux: A Little Something White @jhilburnco by @alittlesomethingwhitebridal
Ana Parzych created the sugar flowers by hand.
From the letterpress invitation to the pattern in the liner and back of the invite, no detail was missed.
Hand
Erica’s art and calligraphy - tucked into the red and white scalloped napkin.
TRUE EVENT
Sarah True is the founder and creative director of True Event. With over two decades of experience, Sarah True has become a premier leader in the wedding and event planning industry.
Sarah has built an incredible reputation in the industry, not only for her keen eye for design but for her ability to connect with her clients and put them at ease. Sarah genuinely loves working with people, making them laugh, and bringing their vision to life. She loves designing unique and gorgeous events that reflect her client’s own personal style.
Since 2009, Sarah has produced hundreds of weddings and events across the country, and has built strong relationships with some of the most elite vendors and venues in the industry.
Cedar Lakes Estate has multiple picturesque locations for a ceremony. One of which being the amphitheater where this intimate ceremony took place.
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JULY 5TH
Jason Mraz: The Mystical Magical Rhythmical Radical Ride
Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater | 7:30 PM
Enjoy a Friday evening with Jason Mraz & The Super Band! Experience positive vibes and a great performance. This show is for all ages, so bring friends, family, and have fun!
JULY 12TH-28TH
Disney’s Mary Poppins The Broadway Musical
Summer Theatre of New Canaan | 7:00 PM
One of the most popular Disney movies of all time is capturing hearts in a whole new way! Based on the books by P.L. Travers and the classic Walt Disney film, Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins delighted Broadway audiences for over 2,500 performances and received nominations for nine Olivier and seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical.
JULY 12TH
Darien Town Fireworks
Darien High School | 6:30 PM
Celebrate the Fourth of July with a BANG! Enjoy this year's fireworks at Darien High School. There will be food trucks, face painting, and live music performed by the Darien Community Band.
JULY 14TH
Cars & Coffee Darien
Goodwives Shopping Center | 7:00 AM
The ‘Cars & Coffee Darien’ is a monthly automotive gathering held every second Sunday of the month at the Goodwives Shopping Center. This event takes place on the historic site of the original Cannonball and features a diverse array of cars paired with coffee for enthusiasts and the community to enjoy.
JULY 26TH
The Bob Button Big Band
Tilley Pond Park | 6:00 PM
Baywater Properties, The Corbin District and Darien Parks and Recreation invite you to their summer 2024 concerts at Tilley Pond Park! This month, see The Bob Button Big Band, who have played for numerous outdoor summer town concerts in Fairfield County. Bring your beach chairs and blankets and enjoy the music and food trucks.
JULY 28TH
Darien Running Company's Sunday Shop Run
14 Brook St, Darien, CT 06820 | 8:00 AM
Start your Sunday right and run with the Darien Running Company, rain or shine! Run anywhere from 4-7 miles; the route is posted on their Facebook page and Strava page day before. All paces welcome!
LOCAL
Experiences
The best places and things to do in our area.
ARTICLE BY MEGAN SCHINELLA
Grab your guys and plan a relaxed or adrenaline-induced day, weekend, or guys night out with these local experiences made for the males.
1. STERLING FARMS GOLF COURSE : Practice your Happy Gilmore swing at the driving range. A 44 bay, double tier, covered, heated, and fully staffed with certified PGA instructors on site. Stamford, CT.
2. HARTFORD YARD GOATS : Catch a game! The Yard Goats play in the Eastern League, Double-A affiliate of the Colorado Rockies. Hartford, CT.
3. RPM RACEWAY: A premier indoor electric karting and entertainment destination. Arcades, food, and More! Stamford, CT.
4. OAK HILLS PARK GOLF COURSE : This public 18 hole course features 6,407 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 71. The course rating is 70.3 and it has a slope rating of 133. Norwalk, CT.
5. THE CAVE: Explore an indoor Glow-In-TheDark Monster-themed mini-golf course. Laser tag, high ropes course, bowling lanes, and much more! Bethel, CT.
LET’S FACE IT
Dr Kirwan is a Diplomate of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and The Aesthetic Society, a fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons, and the author of several books on plastic surgery. There’s nothing wrong with
Discerning men and women from all over the world flock to Dr Kirwan’s office for his unparalleled expertise in plastic surgery for the face and body.
