Greenwich, CT May 2026

Where She Leads

There’s a distinct energy you begin to recognize among women in Greenwich.

It’s not loud, and it’s not performative. It’s something quieter, more assured, a sense of clarity in how they choose to live, lead, and evolve.

This month’s Women’s Issue is a reflection of that.

Across these pages, you’ll meet women who are not only building businesses and shaping industries, but redefining what it means to take ownership of their lives. Women who have moved beyond expectation and into alignment, creating something that feels both ambitious and deeply personal.

In our feature with Well by Messer, we explore a new standard in women’s health, one that prioritizes proactive, personalized care and long-term vitality. It’s a shift away from reactive medicine and toward something far more empowering: understanding your body, your options, and your future.

You’ll also be introduced to a founder whose story of rebuilding and reinvention led to the creation of City Events, a platform grounded in connection and community. Her journey is a reminder that clarity often comes not from having all the answers, but from deciding to begin anyway.

And through The Women’s Health Revolution, we saw firsthand what happens when women are brought into the same room with access to real, unfiltered conversations about their health. The result wasn’t just education, it was momentum.

Alongside these features, Tanya brings her signature perspective to style, offering a refined take on what feels relevant now, while Becky Hillyard continues to remind us that confidence often comes from simplicity, intention, and knowing what works for you.

What connects each of these stories is not just success but ownership.

Ownership of time. Of choices. Of health. Of direction.

Because here, success is not something to chase.

It’s something to define.

As you read this issue, my hope is that you feel both inspired and grounded— that you see what’s possible, while also recognizing the power in where you are right now.

Because the women shaping this community aren’t waiting for permission. They’re leading.

May 2026

PUBLISHER

Laura Sabia | laura.sabia@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Emma Parente | emma.parente@citylifestyle.com

MARKET SUPPORT ASSISTANT

Lara Casiple | lara.casiple@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Adam Vohra | adam.vohra@citylifestyle.com,

Andrea Alderson | andrea.alderson@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Dana Cifone, Tanya Meyers

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Brook Road Photography, ChiChi Ubiña, Claire Bamundo, Renny Hunter, Melissa Olguin, Leigh Hansen

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

LAURA SABIA, PUBLISHER @GREENWICHLIFESTYLEMAG

city scene

Greenwich Braces Family

business monthly

Laura Costello

Dr. Laura Costello, DPT, a Fairfield County–based women’s health physical therapist, author, and speaker on fertility and preconception health, released Pretrimester. Grounded in twenty years of clinical practice and her decade-long infertility journey, Costello examines the critical 3–6 month window before conception—a phase foundational to fertility and maternal health. As infertility affects 1 in 6 people worldwide, her work advances a shift from reactive fertility treatment to intentional preconception care. Learn more at drlauracostello.com

New to Greenwich Avenue: RH Estates

RH is set to elevate Greenwich Avenue with the opening of RH Estates in spring 2026, taking over the Beaux Arts limestone building at 265 Greenwich Ave, formerly home to Ralph Lauren. The expansion builds on the brand’s growing local presence, from its early location at 239 Greenwich Ave to its flagship RH Greenwich gallery at 310 Greenwich Ave, alongside RH Outdoor at 264 Greenwich Ave, helping shape the avenue’s evolving retail landscape.

Citizens Expands Private Banking Presence with New Greenwich Office

Citizens is expanding its private banking platform to Greenwich with a new office at 93 Mason Street, bringing its full-service offering to one of the nation’s most established financial communities. Set within a historic house, the 7,160-square-foot space is designed to feel like a high-end residence while operating as a banking center. The move reflects continued growth since the platform’s 2023 launch and responds to rising demand for personalized, relationship-driven financial services.

7 SPRING TRENDS THAT ACTUALLY MAKE SENSE FOR REAL LIFE

modeT GUIDE:

Spring dressing always feels exciting to me. It is that moment when everything starts to feel lighter, fresher, and full of possibility. Yes, the weather can still be a little unpredictable, and getting dressed during that in-between time is not always as effortless as it looks, but that is also what makes spring such a good time to rethink what you already own and bring in pieces that make your wardrobe feel new again. It is not about buying a whole new wardrobe, it is about finding what feels current, easy, and right for real life. When I shop for clients or edit closets, I am never looking at trends just because they are trends. I always want to know what actually translates into real life, what feels current without feeling forced, what works with pieces you already own, and what makes getting dressed feel more fun instead of more complicated. What I like about Spring 2026 is that the season feels expressive, but still very styleable. These are the seven trends that feel fresh and current, but still easy to wear in a way that feels personal and real.

ARTICLE BY TANYA MEYERS, FASHION STYLIST

1. STRONG COLOR, USED IN A SMART WAY

Spring 2026 is colorful, but not in a soft pastel-only way. The mood feels bolder and more personal, think tomato red, violet, and cobalt blue. There is definitely more color in the mix this season, and it is making even simple outfits feel more alive.

The modeT way:

You do not need to wear bright color head to toe. Start with one piece. A strong blouse with denim, a bright knit with neutral trousers, or a colorful flat with your basics is usually enough.

2. SHEER LAYERING

Lace layers, corset shapes, slips, and sheer pieces are all part of the conversation, but the version that works in real life is about balance, not revealing too much.

The modeT way:

A slip skirt with a simple knit, a lace-trim camisole under a blazer, a softly structured corset top with denim, or a sheer layer under something more tailored can look incredibly beautiful when styled the right way. Something delicate almost always looks better with something a little more grounded.

3. SPORTY POLISH

Sporty silhouettes are still a big part of spring, but they feel cleaner, more polished, and much easier to wear now. Easy layers, utility details, zip-front pieces, shell jackets, sleek sneakers, and practical shapes are all part of the mix, but styled in a way that feels intentional rather than too casual.

The modeT way:

This is where dressing up track pants can actually look incredibly chic. A track pant with a blazer or crisp button-down, a sporty shell with trousers, or a sleek sneaker with a fuller skirt all work beautifully. The key is to mix the sporty piece with something more refined so the overall look feels balanced and polished.

4. DIRECTIONAL SHAPES AND NEW PROPORTIONS

Spring 2026 is not only about color or texture, it is also about shape. Peplums, puffed pants, dramatic shoulders, bubble hems, fringe, and other sculptural details are part of what is making the season feel fresh.

The modeT way:

When a piece has a stronger shape, I like to keep everything around it simpler. A peplum top with straight jeans, puffed pants with a fitted tank, or a sculptural jacket with a slim trouser can look incredibly chic. Let one shape lead so the outfit feels balanced instead of busy.

5. STATEMENT SKIRTS, INCLUDING PLEATS AND MOVEMENT

Skirts are having a real moment this season, especially styles with movement, texture, pleats, or stronger proportions. It is one of the easiest ways to make an outfit feel current without trying too hard.

The modeT way:

If the skirt has volume, pleats, or movement, keep the top simple. A fitted tank, slim tee, or easy cardigan usually works best. I also love a beautiful skirt with a sneaker or flat because it keeps the look relaxed and wearable.

6. LEATHER JACKETS

A good leather jacket still earns its place every spring, but this season the shapes feel a little fresher. I especially love the slightly cropped and slouchier moto styles right now, and rich brown feels like a really nice update if you already own black. The modeT way:

Throw it over a feminine dress, wear it with jeans and a white tee, or layer it over lace to make the whole look feel a little less sweet and a little more personal.

7. SOFT ELEGANCE, WITH ROOM FOR PERSONALITY

One of the things I like most about Spring 2026 is that it does not feel too rigid. There is a softer, more fluid kind of polish this season, and that is a big part of why the trends feel so wearable. The modeT way:

A fluid trouser with a tank, a soft blazer over denim, or an easy dress with a beautiful flat hits that sweet spot. Polished, but not stiff. Put together, but still comfortable.

What I like most about this season is that you do not have to pick just one trend and fully commit to it. The best outfits usually come from mixing a few elements in a way that feels right for you, a strong color with denim, a statement skirt with a sporty jacket, lace with leather, or a directional shape with something simple. And sometimes it is the finishing pieces that really make the look, oversized sunglasses, a great silk scarf, a polished belt, or a statement earring can completely change the feel of an outfit.

That is always the modeT way: not chasing every trend, but choosing the pieces that make you feel your best and fit naturally into your life.

And do not forget to check your local boutiques when the new collections start coming in. That is often where you find pieces that feel special and wearable, not just trend-driven for the sake of it. Some of my go-tos are I Am More in Scarsdale, Pologeorgis and Nobelle in Greenwich, and Saujette in Larchmont, with Darien coming soon.

Happy Spring!

Ants: Tiny Creatures, Big Lives

A smarter way to do HRT

ARTICLE BY LAURA SABIA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BROOK ROAD PHOTOGRAPHY

THENew STANDARD

A modern approach to women’s health, longevity, and personalized care

For years, women’s health has been treated reactively, something addressed only once symptoms appear.

But a quiet shift is happening.

Across Greenwich and beyond, more women are asking better questions. They are no longer waiting for problems to arise and they are seeking clarity, prevention, and a deeper understanding of how their bodies work over time.

At Well by Messer, that shift is not just recognized. It is leading the way.

Bringing together a team of highly specialized physicians across endocrinology, internal medicine, and OB/GYN, the practice offers a more comprehensive and personalized approach to care. One that looks beyond isolated symptoms and instead considers the full picture of a patient’s health, both now and long-term.

“The beauty of endocrinology is that it touches every organ system,” explains Dr. Im. “There are so many ways to approach treatment, and when you personalize that approach, patients can experience real, meaningful relief.”

That philosophy is shared across the practice.

Rather than focusing on quick fixes, the team is committed to early intervention, education, and sustainable lifestyle changes, helping patients not only manage their health, but actively shape it.

“My goal is to partner with patients to protect their future health, not just treat disease after it appears,” says Dr. Chhabra.

That distinction is critical, particularly as more women navigate complex and often misunderstood health concerns.

Weight gain, fatigue, hormonal shifts, and metabolic changes are among the most common challenges patients present with today. While these issues are often dismissed or oversimplified, the physicians at Well by Messer approach them with both nuance and precision.

“Most of the time, it’s multifactorial,” says Dr. Im. “There isn’t just one cause, and there isn’t one solution. It’s about understanding the full picture and supporting lifestyle changes with the right medical therapies.”

In particular, menopause and perimenopause have become a central focus—areas historically under-discussed but increasingly prioritized by patients seeking both answers and solutions.

“Suffering is out,” says Dr. Dweck. “There are so many options available now—from lifestyle modifications to hormone therapy and women deserve to know that they don’t have to just ‘push through’ this phase of life.”

That perspective reflects a broader cultural shift.

Patients today are more informed, more engaged, and more proactive than ever before especially in communities like Greenwich, where longevity and quality of life are top priorities.

“Greenwich patients are incredibly educated and invested in their health,” says Dr. Messer. “They are looking for evidence-based, personalized care, and they are willing to make the changes necessary to achieve it.”

At the same time, the team is working to challenge long-standing misconceptions that often prevent patients from seeking the care they need.

“Suffering is no longer acceptable, women deserve personalized, proactive care that supports their health, longevity, and overall quality of life at every stage.”

One of the most common is the belief that weight management is simply a matter of willpower.

“Obesity is a complex, chronic medical condition,” explains Dr. Chhabra. “It involves biology, hormones, genetics, and environment. Addressing it effectively requires a comprehensive, medical approach, not just diet and exercise.”

That level of insight is supported by rapid advancements in the field.

From continuous glucose monitoring systems that now last up to a year, to new medications that address metabolic health in more targeted ways, the tools available to physicians and their patients are evolving quickly.

“We are seeing therapies that impact not just one condition, but multiple systems in the body,” says Dr. Im. “It’s incredibly exciting because it allows us to support patients in a much more holistic way.”

Even more promising is what lies ahead.

The future of personalized medicine is expected to include highly individualized treatment plans based on genetic markers, predictive testing, and advanced diagnostics allowing physicians to determine, in advance, how a patient will respond to certain medications or interventions.

“I think we’re moving toward a world where treatment is tailored at a level we haven’t seen before,” says Dr. Messer. “From medication tolerance to cancer screening, everything will become more precise.”

And yet, for all the innovation, the foundation of long-term health remains surprisingly simple.

Consistent movement. Strength training. Quality sleep. Balanced nutrition. Stress management.

“The future of medicine is deeply personalized where prevention, early detection, and tailored treatments allow women to not only live longer, but maintain the energy, strength, and vitality to fully enjoy their lives.”

“These are not trends, they’re essential,” says Dr. Dweck. “If you want to age well, you have to prioritize them.”

For the physicians at Well by Messer, “aging well” is not about extending life at any cost, it’s about preserving quality of life.

“Aging well means staying engaged, physically and mentally, and being able to live the life you want for as long as possible,” says Dr. Im.

It is a philosophy that resonates deeply with the women they serve, women who are no longer content with reactive care, and instead are choosing to take an active role in their health, their longevity, and their future.

Because the standard is changing.

And for those who are paying attention, it’s clear: the future of women’s health is not about waiting.

It’s about leading.

Dr. Josh Shajan and Morgan O’Neill, FNP-C Where Wellness Meets Expertise Yout Path to Vitality in Greenwich, CT

At Greenwich Primary Care, our team of highly trained professionals introduces REMEDY your destination for peak health and beauty

This is health reimagined - modern primary care and whole-person wellness, all under one trusted roof

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Wellness Testing

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NAD+ Injections and IV Therapy

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS, Wine Follows

ARTICLE BY DANA CIFONE

Heather Muriello didn’t arrive in the world of wine through some romantic, perfectly scripted moment, and that’s exactly what makes her story feel so real. There was no sweeping pivot, no cinematic vineyard awakening. Instead, it unfolded the way most meaningful things do: slowly, intuitively, and over time.

She was building a career in marketing, moving through the pace of life, when wine began to quietly weave itself in. It showed up at dinner tables, on trips, in those lingering moments after a great glass when curiosity takes hold. Not just what am I drinking, but why does it taste like this, where does it come from, and who made it?

At some point, that curiosity stopped feeling casual. It felt instinctive. Something worth following.

Heather leaned in, earning her WSET Level 2 certification and immersing herself in Italian wine studies. But more than that, she created something of her own, Winefarer. Not just a brand, but a perspective rooted in one simple idea: wine should feel like an invitation, not something you need to qualify for.

Now based in Greenwich, Connecticut with her family, she has built a life that moves effortlessly between home and discovery. And when she travels, she’s not chasing what’s already been done. She’s looking for what’s just about to be discovered, the regions, the producers, the varietals that haven’t yet been overexposed but are undeniably worth knowing.

CONTINUED >

She has spent time along the coastline of Abruzzo, where Montepulciano grows alongside the Adriatic and trabocchi stretch out over the water like something untouched by time. She’s explored Roero in Piedmont, often overshadowed by Barolo but deeply expressive in its own right. She’s followed Assyrtiko across Santorini’s volcanic terrain, experienced the restraint and structure of Ribera del Duero, and fallen into the precision and aromatics of Alsace.

But what makes Heather’s approach different isn’t just where she goes, it’s how she experiences it.

There’s a shift that happens when you stand in a vineyard with the person who farmed it. When you hear their story before you taste the wine. It adds depth, context, and connection. The glass in your hand becomes more than just something you’re drinking, it becomes a place, a memory, a perspective.

unnecessary language and focuses on what actually matters: how it tastes, when you’d open it, what you’d pair it with, and why you should care.

Her recommendations are the kind you save. The ones you bring into a wine shop and reference without overthinking it. There’s no pressure to know everything, just permission to enjoy it.

“Drink what you love, skip the rules—wine should feel good, not intimidating.”

And for Heather, that’s the part that matters.

Because the instinct isn’t just to discover something new. It’s to bring it back and share it in a way that feels accessible.

That’s what Winefarer has become. Through her Instagram, Substack, and content, she’s built a community, largely women, who love wine but don’t want to feel intimidated by it. Her voice is clear, approachable, and intentional. She strips away the

And behind the beautiful visuals, the glassware, the travel, the effortless aesthetic, there is a sharp, strategic foundation. Through Heather Muriello Social, she has expanded her expertise beyond wine, working with brands across hospitality, wellness, and lifestyle. Her ability to translate a brand into something that genuinely connects is what sets her apart. Looking ahead, her focus is simple: more. More regions, more producers, more stories to tell. She’s especially drawn to Italian wines that are just beginning to step into the spotlight, the ones that haven’t yet had their moment, but inevitably will.

But at the core of everything she does, her message remains the same, and it’s one that resonates whether you’re deeply immersed in wine or just starting to explore it.

Trust your palate. If you like it, it’s good. Everything else is just context. And that’s exactly what she’s here to share.

Set along a graceful approach on a quiet country street 3 minutes from town, this exceptional new construction blends timeless architecture with modern livability. A striking white masonry façade, steep gables, and dark-framed windows create a refined yet welcoming presence, while warm interior lighting highlights the home’s scale and thoughtful design. The residence unfolds with expansive living spaces, including a dramatic kitchen and family room designed for both everyday living and elevated entertaining. Clean architectural lines are softened by classic detailing, delivering a balance of sophistication and comfort. Seamless indoor-outdoor flow with terraces and covered living areas overlooking the 2.43 acres, gracious pool as well as the barn with basketball court and golf simulator. Generous proportions, soaring ceilings across multiple levels of finished space, and a layout designed for flexibility position this home as a standout offering. A rare opportunity to own a newly built residence that combines architectural

ARTICLE BY KALI KASORZYK

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

BECKY HILLYARD

From Side Hustle to Style Empire

The power of taste, trust, and the courage to “just start.”

She didn’t have a business plan, a media budget, or even a name anyone could pronounce. What Becky Hillyard had was taste, a young family, and the instinct to just start. Today, her lifestyle brand Cella Jane commands an audience the size of Vogue’s, she’s nine collections strong with Splendid, and she’s built it all while raising three kids — refusing to sacrifice one for the other. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Becky shares what it really takes to build a brand, a career, and a life you love. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full conversation.

Q: WHEN DID YOU KNOW CELLA JANE WAS MORE THAN A HOBBY?

A: Two moments. Women started emailing me saying they bought something I recommended and felt amazing — asking me to help them find a dress for a wedding. That felt incredible. Then I looked at my affiliate numbers for one month and realized I could cover our mortgage. I thought, I can actually do this. I never set out to build a business. I started it because I genuinely loved it.

Q: WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST RISK YOU EVER TOOK WITH THE BRAND?

A: Designing my own collection. It’s easy to point at items on a website and say I love these. But to create something from scratch, put your name on it, and wait to see if people connect with it — that’s terrifying. I had an incredible partner in Splendid, and women loved the pieces. It was the biggest risk and the biggest accomplishment.

Q: HOW HAS INFLUENCER MARKETING CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED?

A: When I started, brands didn’t know whether to take it seriously. Now it’s a legitimate line item in their marketing budgets — sometimes bigger than TV. Because what we’ve built is trust. People trust a real recommendation from someone they follow far more than a commercial. There’s no question about it now.

Q: YOU’RE A MOM OF THREE RUNNING A FULL BRAND. WHAT DOES YOUR DAY ACTUALLY LOOK LIKE?

A: I try to get up at five and not hit snooze — that first hour before the house wakes up is the most productive, most peaceful hour of my day. Then it’s all hands on deck with the kids and school drop-off. After that I work — planning content, connecting with my team, editing. After pickup, the day shifts completely and it’s all about them. I’ve learned to protect both halves fiercely, because both matter.

Q: WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO BUILD SOMETHING OF THEIR OWN BUT KEEPS WAITING?

A: Don’t wait. Don’t wait for the perfect camera, the right strategy, or enough followers. We find every excuse to stay comfortable. Just start, be consistent, and be authentically yourself. The right people will find you — and they’ll stay.

This conversation is just the beginning. Becky goes deeper on the risks that almost stopped her, the design process behind her latest Splendid collection, and what she’d tell her 2012 self today. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle Podcast.

“Trust is the only metric that actually compounds.”

— Becky Hillyard

Octavia Melly

INTEGRITY

Building relationships that are based on trust.

PASSION

Demonstrating enthusiasm for what we do.

EXCELLENCE

Exceeding expectations at every level.

COMMUNITY

Contributing to the welfare of our communities.

Real Estate Salesperson M 615.500.2388 O 203.869.0700

omelly@houlihanlawrence.com octaviamelly.houlihanlawrence.com Proudly serving Greenwich, Cos Cob, Riverside, Old Greenwich, Stamford

shsconnecticutsw.com

203-363-4400

500 W Putnam Ave, Suite 400 Greenwich, CT info@shsconnecticutsw.com

MOST IMPORTANT CONVERSATION

Inside Greenwich’s on Women’s Health

160 WOMEN GATHERED FOR AN UNFILTERED, SCIENCE-BACKED DIALOGUE REDEFINING HOW MODERN WOMEN APPROACH HEALTH, LONGEVITY, AND INFORMED DECISION-MAKING TODAY

ARTICLE BY LAURA SABIA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BROOK ROAD PHOTOGRAPHY

On a beautiful Friday morning in early March, something different unfolded in Greenwich.

It wasn’t just another wellness event. It wasn’t a panel built on trends, soundbites, or surface-level advice. Instead, it was a room filled with over 160 women who were engaged, curious, and ready for a more honest conversation about their health.

The Women’s Health Revolution, brought to us by Penny Goffman of That Penny Connect and powered by ESSE Care, delivered exactly that.

From the moment guests arrived, the energy in the room was unmistakable. There was a sense that this wasn’t just about gathering information, it was about gaining clarity. About asking better questions. About finally having access to conversations that, for too long, have been either overlooked or oversimplified.

At the center of the morning was a clear mission: to bring together leading voices in women’s health to discuss what is actually happening in women’s bodies and what can be done about it.

The result was a powerful, science-backed dialogue that challenged outdated narratives and replaced them with something far more valuable: understanding.

Throughout the day, three highly respected physicians, Dr. Karli Provost Goldstein, Dr. Alicia Robbins and Dr. Tania Elliott took the hot seat moderated by host, Penny Goffman, each offering insight grounded not only in research, but in real clinical experience. Topics ranged from hormone health and metabolism to longevity, preventative care, and the often-misunderstood realities of perimenopause and menopause.

What made the conversation so impactful was its tone.

It was direct. It was nuanced. And perhaps most importantly, it was honest.

There was no one-size-fits-all solution presented because there isn’t one. Instead, the experts emphasized a more personalized, proactive approach to care, one that reflects the complexity of women’s health and the individuality of each patient.

For many in attendance, that message alone was transformative.

Women today are navigating more information than ever before, yet often feel less certain about what actually applies to them. Social media, conflicting advice, and outdated assumptions have created a landscape that can feel overwhelming, even for the most informed.

This event cut through that noise.

Rather than simplifying the conversation, it elevated it. Offering attendees a deeper understanding of how different systems in the body interact, why symptoms often have multiple contributing factors, and how modern medicine is evolving to better support long-term health.

A major theme throughout the evening was the shift from reactive to proactive care.

Instead of waiting for symptoms to escalate, the experts emphasized early intervention, consistent monitoring, and lifestyle habits that support health over time. Strength training, nutrition, sleep, and stress management were discussed not as trends, but as foundational pillars.

At the same time, the conversation acknowledged the critical role of medical innovation.

Advancements in hormone therapy, metabolic treatments, and diagnostic tools are changing what is possible for women allowing for more targeted, effective care than ever before. For many attendees, this represented a turning point: a realization that suffering through symptoms is no longer the expectation.

It was a message that resonated deeply.

Equally impactful was the sense of community in the room.

While the information shared was powerful, the experience of being surrounded by other women and asking similar questions, navigating similar challenges, and seeking similar answers created an environment that felt both validating and energizing.

This is where events like this extend beyond education.

They create connection.

They foster confidence.

And they remind women that they are not navigating these experiences alone.

Behind the scenes, Penny played a pivotal role in bringing this vision to life. With a focus on elevated, intentional experiences, the event was not only informative, but thoughtfully curated from the caliber of speakers to the overall atmosphere.

It reflected a deeper understanding of what women are looking for today: not just information, but access. Not just answers, but guidance they can trust.

And perhaps most importantly, a space where conversations about women’s health are taken seriously.

As the day came to a close, it was clear that this was not a one-time event.

It was the beginning of something larger.

A shift in how women approach their health. A demand for better conversations, better care, and better outcomes. And a growing recognition that informed, empowered women are changing the standard not just for themselves, but for the future of healthcare.

Because when the conversation changes, everything else follows.

THE WOMEN’S HEALTH REVOLUTION

Powered by ESSE Care in Greenwich, this sold-out event brought together over 160 women and leading medical experts for an unfiltered conversation on hormones, metabolism, and longevity, signaling a powerful shift toward more informed, proactive, and personalized approaches to women’s health and wellness.

W e d d i n g s

C o r p o r a t e

S o c i a l E v e n t s

D e s t i n a t i o n

C e l e b r a t i o n s

b r e t t g a l l e y e v e n t s c o m @ h o l l y w o o d p o p g a l l e r y

Building a Life on Her Terms

Photo by Renny Hunter

From starting over to building community, she redefines success through resilience, intuition, and creating meaningful connection at scale

ARTICLE BY LAURA SABIA

For some women, the turning point is subtle. For others, it’s unmistakable.

For Isis-Rae Goulbourne, it came in a moment of complete stillness, lying on the floor of her living room, staring at the ceiling, and realizing with absolute clarity: this is not my life.

At the time, everything had shifted. Her marriage had ended, and she found herself in a new city with two young children, no income, no car, and no established support system. What could have felt like an ending instead became a starting point.

“I wrote down what I wanted,” she says. “And I started putting the pieces in place to get there.”

That decision marked the beginning of a different kind of success, one no longer defined by external milestones, but by alignment, fulfillment, and impact.

Earlier in her life, success had been a checklist: marriage, career progression, hitting every expected marker in the right order. But when those things began to fall apart, so did the idea that they defined her.

“I realized I wasn’t failing,” she says. “I was succeeding in ways I couldn’t see yet.”

That perspective now shapes everything she builds.

As the founder of City Events, she has created a platform rooted in connection, bringing people together in meaningful, tangible ways at a time when many feel increasingly disconnected. What began as a deeply personal need evolved into something much larger.

“City Events started as a selfish act,” she says. “I just wanted to feel connected. But when you solve a problem that comes from a real place, you’re never alone in it.”

Today, her work extends beyond events. She serves on the board of Person to Person, advises the Women’s Business Development Council and Connecticut Public, and supports local business owners through education and training initiatives. Her focus is clear: build locally, where impact is real and lasting.

“

Her leadership style reflects that same philosophy. Rather than control, she prioritizes trust, empathy, and support. Creating an environment where others can thrive.

City Events

A community-driven platform designed to bring people together through curated local experiences. What began as a personal search for connection has grown into a trusted resource across Fairfield County, supporting local businesses, fostering relationships, and creating opportunities for meaningful, reallife engagement in an increasingly digital world.

“My role is to be the biggest servant in the room,” she says. “If I want people to invest in my vision, I have to invest in them first.”

That clarity has also reshaped how she approaches balance. Instead of striving to do everything, she’s embraced a more honest framework.

“I think of my life in three areas: home, career, and personal,” she says. “And I’ve accepted I can only keep two of those in the air at once.”

It’s a mindset grounded in self-awareness, something she continues to cultivate through a consistent internal practice of reflection.

Looking ahead, her vision is expansive. City Events is growing across Fairfield County, with plans to expand statewide yet she sees it not as a final destination, but a foundation.

“The work is done in the dark,” she says. “And then one day, the lights come on.”

And when they do, she’s ready.

BERRY BRUSCHETTA

A RECIPE FROM A CUP FULL OF SASS

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY TINNIN

This Berry Bruschetta is a delightful twist on the classic bruschetta that we all love. This version uses fruit, bringing a sweet element to the traditionally savory dish. With the use of fresh berries, cream cheese, delicious fruit spread, crumbled cheese, and fresh rosemary, it is the perfect addition to your next spring event. This simple, yet beautiful appetizer could be enjoyed at your next brunch, shower or Mother’s Day celebration. But let’s be honest—you don’t need an excuse to enjoy this delectable dish!

INGREDIENTS:

• 12 baguette slices

• Extra virgin olive oil (for brushing)

• 4 oz cream cheese

• 1/4 cup Fruit and Honey Triple Berry Spread (or any fruit spread of your choice)

• 1/3 cup fresh strawberries, sliced

• 1/3 cup fresh blueberries

• 2 oz fruit cheese (such as Wensleydale with Autumn Fruit), crumbled

• Fresh rosemary for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

2. Lightly brush the front and back of the baguette slices with Extra Virgin Olive Oil.

3. Toast baguette slices in the oven for 3-5 minutes or until lightly toasted.

4. Once the baguette slices are cool, spread a generous layer of cream cheese over each slice.

5. Add the fruit spread on top of the cream cheese.

6. Add sliced strawberries and a few blueberries, allowing the vibrant colors to pop. (A great place to find fresh fruit is our local staple, Crystal & Rich’s Produce.)

7. Crumble the fruit cheese over the top for an added layer of richness and depth.

8. Garnish with fresh Rosemary if desired.

9. Serve and enjoy!

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events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MAY 3RD

Breast Cancer Alliance

5K for Hope

Greenwich CT | 9:00 AM

Lace up your running shoes for the Breast Cancer Alliance 5K! This event invites participants to run or walk, all while honoring those who have bravely faced breast cancer. The 5K course starts at Richards, with check-in beginning at 8 AM, followed by a complimentary breakfast for participants. Runners will kick off at 9 AM, with walkers starting shortly after.

MAY 7TH

Old Bags Luncheon

Belle Haven Club | 11:00 AM

Mark your calendars for the 21st Annual Old Bags Luncheon, hosted by YWCA Greenwich! This signature event contains a live and silent auction of over 150 handbags. Plus, purchase raffle tickets for the chance to win a brand new Chanel handbag! All proceeds go to the Harmony Project, which provides free and confidential services to victims of domestic violence.

MAY 9TH

Let Freedom Ring!

Seaside Garden, Old Greenwich CT | 4:00 PM

Celebrate America’s 250th with Let Freedom Ring! This special concert supports the restoration of the historic Seaside Garden. Presented by the Knollwood Garden Club of Greenwich, the event features handbell choirs from local churches and the premiere of a commissioned piece by composer Jonathan Vaughn, followed by a festive reception.

MAY 2026 CONTINUED >

Periodontist & Implant Surgeon

Dr. Traynor Practices the Most Advanced Techniques in Periodontics and Implant Placement Including:

· Laser Therapy to Treat Gum Infections and Regrow Bone (LANAP)

· Laser Therapy to Save Failing Implants

· Cosmetic Treatments to Improve the Look of Your Smile

· State of the Art Technology for Custom Implant Placement

· Same Day Implant Placement for Broken Teeth

MAY 14TH - 16TH

Grease

GHS Performing Arts Center | 7:00 PM

Greenwich High School’s Theater Arts program presents the beloved, high-energy musical “Grease” over three nights in the Performing Arts Center. Bring your family to follow Danny and Sandy’s story. Enjoy such hits as “Greased Lightnin’” and “We Go Together” sung by GHS’ best voices and performed with a live orchestra.

MAY 23RD

Greenwich Town Party

Roger Sherman Baldwin Park 10:00 AM

Mark your calendars. Clear your schedules. This is the performance of the year! Get ready for Greenwich Town Party 2026, with headliner Dave Matthews & Tim Reynolds! Rain or shine, get ready to rock. Plus, Elmo’s Got The Moves will be the 2026 kids performer, promising fun for the whole family!

MAY 30TH - 31ST

Greenwich

Concours d’Elegance

Roger Sherman Baldwin Park 10:00 AM

The Greenwich Concours d’Elegance celebrates the artistry, history, and innovation of the automobile with a stunning display of more than 150 historically significant collector cars. Guests can explore carefully curated classes, admire rare and iconic vehicles, and enjoy a vibrant atmosphere at one of the Northeast’s most celebrated automotive showcases.