Westport , CT December 2019 by City Lifestyle

DECEMBER 2019

Westport-Lifestyle.com

A VERY WESTPORT GIFT GUIDE

CRAZY FABULOUS PARTY CLOTHES

THE SHOP BRINGING DOWNTOWN BACK

WHY LIGHTS SHINE BRIGHT ON CRIBARI BRIDGE

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

DECEMBER 2019 PUBLISHER

Marisa MacLean | marisa.maclean@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL SUPERVISOR

Robin Moyer Chung | robin.chung@lifestylepubs.com

Happy Everything! WHAT A FUN TIME OF YEAR! No matter what holiday you celebrate it’s impossible not to feel the magic of December.

AD DESIGNER

Kaylee Mitchell LAYOUT DESIGNER

Emily Stout CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Robin Moyer Chung, Marisa MacLean, Matthew MacLean

This issue is packed with ways to make your December cheerful, bright, and Westport

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

all the way, starting with party season! We teamed up with some of our favorite local

Mindy Briar, John Videler

boutiques and style experts to showcase some seriously fabulous fashion. If you have a lengthy shopping list to conquer this month, take a look at our gift guide. We’ve included the best recommendations from local shops to have you giving gifts like a pro. We also learn about Savvy + Grace and the owner behind this shop that’s bringing back downtown Westport. Savvy + Grace has something for everyone on your gift list, even your pets! While you’re out shopping, don’t forget our non-profits that would love your support this holiday season. Our cover this month highlights a feature story about Al Diguido of Al’s Angels. Al’s Angels is teaming up with The Saugatuck Rowing Club to make the Cribari Bridge lighting a big town event and new holiday tradition. Read about it on page 42.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

December also means that 2019 is coming to a close. Whether you like it or not, it’s time to

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

get your finances in order. In this issue we meet up with Mike Gold, of Gold Family Wealth.

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

He shares his top tips for getting your finances in check before the end of the year.

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

The long, cold winter days can sometimes feel slightly monotonous, so it’s nice to plan winter getaways for the family. In this issue we explore a Southern family travel destination that is perfect for celebrating the holidays and ringing in the New Year.

EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

So, find a nice spot by the fireplace and spend some time with us this December. Hope to see you around soon!

Marisa MacLean, Publisher

ON THE COVER The William F. Cribari

SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

Bridge festively lit up for the holiday

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

season by Al's Angels. Turn to page 42 for the inspiring full feature story on this wonderful tradition.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN VIDELER 8

Westport Lifestyle | December 2019

Westport-Lifestyle.com

Proverbs 3:5-6 Westport Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Westport areas’ 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 Westport Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2019

FEATURES 26 Attention Shoppers Savvy + Grace takes back downtown Westport

30 Gift Guide Buy Local, or Bye-bye local!

36 Crazy Fabulous Party Clothes Westport dazzles with hip local boutiques

30 26

42 Yes, Westport, There Is a Santa Claus His name is Al Diguido

DEPARTMENTS 8

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Financial Buzz

Travel Destination

Locals Only

Giving Back

Water & Woods

Lifestyle Calendar

Culinary Creations

the art of organization Visit our showroom: 100 Wooster Street, Bethel, CT 06801

203-616-5847

closetfactory.com

GOOD TIMES 1.

Harvest Fest 300 Westporters showed up on September 14 to celebrate Harvest Fest, Wakeman Town Farm’s annual sold-out fundraiser, which raises money to bring scholarship students to the Farm for free. The event brought together local farmers, chefs, sponsors and guests for an evening of good food, live music and auctions to benefit the Farm’s educational programs. PHOTOS: MINDY BRIAR.

1. Guys enjoying the bounty. | 2. Student volunteers get ready to help with dinner service. | 3. L to R: Sue Katzen, Karen Rogers, Terilyn Esse, Todd Esse, Meg Lowe, Jenny Day. | 4. Allison Walmark, Don Rogers, Danna Rogers (Harvest Fest Auction Chair). | 5. Doug and Christy Colasurdo (Harvest Fest Co-Chair), Hugh & Merideth Haas enjoy the cocktail hour.

Victory Cup Polo Match Celebrating its 15th year, turn-out was large for The Victory Cup Polo Tournament at the Fairfield County Hunt Club. Families enjoyed a gorgeous day of green grass, friends, majes-

tic horses, heart pounding polo, food and cocktails! PHOTOS: MINDY BRIAR.

1. Young polo fans enjoying the day | 2. Viewing the match | 3. Polo player | 4. The stomping of the divots | 5. David and Ashley Lancer, Marisa and Matthew MacLean 12

Westport Lifestyle | December 2019

DR. MASHA KOGAN & DR. VIRGINIA ROMANO 203.227. 87 00 • D E N TA LC E N T E R W E S T P O RT. C OM • 250 M A I N S T R E E T, W E S T P O RT

BE HAPPY. BE BRIGHT. BE YOU.

AROUND TOWN Yacht Club, Westport Tennis Club, Weston Racquet Club and Westport Parks and Recreation. OliverTennis.com SylvanTennis.com

AL'S ANGELS TOY DRIVE AND TOY WRAPPING Al’s Angels is always in need of volunteers. Families working together, side by side with their kids, instill a deep sense of selflessness and compassion. Whether it’s wrapping a gift, assembling a holiday basket, filling a food bin for a family at Thanksgiving or hosting a fundraiser, we can never have too many volunteers. To participate in December's Toy Drive and Gift Wrapping, sign up

DOWNTOWN POP-UP HOLIDAY WEEKEND Please save the date! Come to downtown

at AlsAngels.org

WESTPORT POLICE TOY DRIVE

Westport and support the wonderful shops,

The Westport Police Department Local Union

restaurants and people that make our town such

#2080 and Police Benevolent Association will be

a special place to live and visit. Entertainment

hosting their annual Holiday Toy Drive, which pro-

includes holiday carolers, horse and carriage rides,

vides toys for underprivileged children throughout

sips and treats, and plenty of holiday decoration!

Fairfield County and beyond. The program has

Friday, December 6, 4:00 p.m. through Sunday,

been extremely successful in the past, allowing for

December 8, 7:00 p.m.

thousands of toys to be distributed to children who otherwise would have none. We ask for your continued support and generosity to help make this year’s drive as successful as in the past. By doing so, you will bring joy to so many children who often have none. Westport Police Officers will accept new, unopened, and unwrapped toys, as well as cash donations, in the parking lot of ASF Sports & Outdoors, located at 1560 Post Road East, Westport, on the following Saturdays and Sundays: December 7, 8, 14 and 15 from 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Collection boxes will also be set up at: Westport Police Department, 50 Jesup Road, 24 hours a day. Westport Town Hall, 110 Myrtle Ave., during busi-

OLIVER COLLINS NAMED DIRECTOR OF TENNIS INSTRUCTION AT SYLVAN TENNIS

ness hours 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Contact Det. Sgt. Jill Ruggiero at jruggiero@ westportct.gov or 203-341-6017 with questions.

Tennis professional Oliver Collins has been named the Director of Tennis Instruction at Sylvan Tennis Club in Westport. "I am excited to start new tennis programs at Sylvan, a popular and personal tennis club near downtown” says Oliver, “Tennis is

a lifetime sport and fun for all ages. Plus, it's one of

the most popular sports in Westport."

announcements you’d like to see included in our

are

always

accepting

submissions

for

Oliver has taught for 20 years, ten of them

Around Town section. Submissions are accepted

in Westport. His experience includes Riverside

via the Contact Us tab at Westport-Lifestyle.com.

Westport Lifestyle | December 2019

In collaboration with America’s Top Lifestyle Expert Mar Jennings

AWARD WINNING DESIGN 175 Post Road W, Westport, CT 06880 | 203-454-0032 | karenberkemeyerhome.com

FINANCIAL BUZZ

EVERYONE LOVES A SUCCESS STORY.

After earning an MBA in Quantitative

Michael Gold, founder of Gold Family

Finance from NYU, he turned his life experi-

Wealth, is one of those stories. He grew up in a

ences into a learning tool, honing his exper-

tiny apartment in Queens, sharing a bedroom

tise in the complexities and ramifications of

with his older sister. He struggled throughout

finance, business and lifestyle. This exper-

his youth, trying and failing to overcome lack-

tise helped Michael pioneer the Virtual

luster education opportunities, a poor neigh-

Family Office model designed to deliver

borhood, and losing his mother to cancer.

integrated and comprehensive financial

But, from the depths of “what felt like the abyss" Michael found a determination and

solutions to improve, enrich and protect people’s wealth and quality of life.

inquisitiveness that helped pull him from the hole and into an unexpected future.

10 Gold Nuggets

VALUABLE FINANCIAL TIPS FROM PRIVATE CLIENT WEALTH MANAGER MICHAEL GOLD

Westport Lifestyle | December 2019

KNOW THE RISKS The next correction, crash, or apoca-

BUILD YOUR “MOAT” How do you protect your assets in extreme circumstances? For instance, if you or your child caused an acci-

lypse du jour is not the risk. Inflation,

dent how would you pay for damages? Get

taxes, excessive fees left unchecked

an umbrella policy! These kick in after your

are the termites eroding your wealth.

Below are his 10 Gold Nuggets:

OUTPERFORMANCE IS NOT A GOAL If you outperform your friend by 3-4% annually for 20 yrs, does it matter if

home and auto liability limits are exhausted.

REDUCE TAX DRAG Offset gains by harvesting losses. No gains? No worries! Carry forward the losses and write off up to $3,000

ordinary income.

she runs out of money at 78 and you run out

Tax loss harvesting should be systemati-

at 82 if you’re both 83 without a dime to your

cally woven into the DNA of how your port-

name? Determine real goals then reverse

folio is managed throughout the year, not

engineer how to bridge the gap.

just in December.

Michael R. Gold, CFP®, MBA

MITIGATE TAX

President & CEO - GoldFamilyWealth.com

High levels of ordinary income and you’re philanthropic? Explore a charitable trust. Make a positive impact

on important causes with some potentially sizable tax breaks.

CARE FOR HEIRS If you don’t have a Will and an

STOP WATCHING

AVOID PREDATORY ADVISORS

THE FINANCIAL NEWS PERIOD. Financial news is not designed to inform, it’s designed to get viewership.

estate plan, stop reading right now, RUN and get one. If you do,

great! Is it designed to avoid probate? If not, or not sure, dust off that estate plan and get current.

LIKE THE PLAGUE These are the Madoffs of the world! Seek an advisor that is your financial

doctor or the general contractor of your DON’T BUY LIFE INSURANCE

financial world who will help you connect

UNTIL YOU ASK THESE

all the dots and coordinate a team of vetted

3 QUESTIONS:

experts in the field of investments, tax, legal,

1. Do you need it? The only reason you

insurance, and estate to help you.

need life insurance is if you lack the financial resources to fill a financial gap if you died. 2. If you need it, how much do you need? Run a cash-flow analysis then reverse engineer the amount to cover costs for a certain number of years. 3. How should you pay for it? 1. Write a check 2. Borrow (premium financing) 3. Third-Party (parents, grandparents, your company) 4. Leverage your qualified retirement plan (business owners only)

GET YOUR MIND RIGHT You can do everything right, but remember to manage your mindset:

poor

decisions

can

derail everything.

December 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

GET DRESSED AT WEST Curated Fashion With A West Coast Vibe 117 Post Rd East, Westport 203.557.4157 ••• west2westport.com Follow us @west2westport

TRAVEL DESTINATION ARTICLE MATTHEW MACLEAN

G R I T S A N D 20

A HOLIDAY ESCAPE WITH SOUTHERN STYLE AND OLD WORLD CHARM

G L A

Architectural-Inn Carolina Suite

Veranda view

IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A FAMILY DES-

offers events, parades, and festive gatherings

rounding landscape. The people, architecture and

TINATION

THE

LOWCOUNTRY

THAT

OFFERS SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY, SECLUSION AND A WIDE ASSORTMENT OF THINGS TO DO, CONSIDER MONTAGE PALMETTO BLUFF. This time of year, Montage Palmetto Bluff to celebrate the holidays. Extended families often come to celebrate together, enjoying the time spent with each other as well as the many holiday activities. The beauty of the resort is matched by the surnatural beauty of the South Carolina Lowcountry is unique to this corner of the world, and Palmetto Bluff captures it all. Whether you’re sipping a drink in a rocking chair on a stately porch in the afternoon or relaxing in the shade of an old oak draped in hanging moss, the picturesque natural scenery and splendid architecture will charm you with classic southern style.

Westport Lifestyle | December 2019

DINE It is impossible to separate southern hospitality from southern cooking and the options on offer at Palmetto Bluff exceed expectations. There are eight restaurants to choose from, each offering unique cuisine. With a focus on locally sourced ingredients you can sample comfort food, upmarket seafood or smokehouse barbecue. You may see fishermen pull up to the dock to deliver oysters fresh from the river or see vegetables from a local farm delivered via golf cart. If you’ve ever been curious about trying grits, this is the place to do it. The gumbo is delectable with just the right amount of spice and consistency. The kids love roasting their own s’mores over a bonfire each night. One tour guide told us that Russian Czars, known for their opulence, only ate oysters from waters around Palmetto Bluff. One taste and you’ll understand why.

Canoe Club Restaurant

Nightly s’mores The in-room fireplace offers an at home feel

S TAY As one of the most luxurious destinations on the East coast, Palmetto Bluff is 1.5 times the size of Manhattan and boasts 32 miles of coastline. With more than half of that area devoted to conservation, it’s not uncommon to see deer in the woods or whole families of dolphin swimming by in the river. In addition to the private homes, there are over 200 rooms, suites, and cottages. Combining luxury amenities and elegance, the Lowcountry culture is evident in both the accommodations and the staff. The rooms are decorated with sophisticated grace and often include working fireplaces, marble bathrooms or screened in porches. Your hosts go out of their way to make your stay as enjoyable as possible with an old-world earnestness that’s endearing and genuine. Be prepared to wave and greet those you pass, and don’t be surprised if they take the time to learn and remember your name. CONTINUED >

December 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

TRAVEL DESTINATION (CON TI N U ED)

DO From the dock at the resort you can take a dolphin cruise with a local who knows the best spots to view the dolphin of Palmetto Bluff. They share colorful stories about the surrounding islands and fascinating details about the wildlife and their habitat. Large graceful pelicans and herons keep the dolphin company gliding over the marshlands. Dolphin raise their young in the secluded coves and tidal waterways around Palmetto Bluff. They give birth in the marshes and the baby dolphin barely leave their mother’s side for the first year. Longfield Stables at Palmetto Bluff provides guests and residents with an exquisite equestrian facility. Immaculately kept with the health and well-being of the animals in mind, the stables are studied by design students for their beauty and aesthetic. Each horse has a private stall, larger than most NYC studio apartments. In addition to horseback riding, they offer pony painting for the kids. A pony will stand patiently while children pat and paint away. The experience for the pony is like a massage and they often fall asleep as they’re groomed by soft brushes and little hands. Montage Palmetto Bluff offers merit badges for kids. You’ll earn a badge for experiencing activities and taking part in excursions around the resort. It’s a clever way to encourage exploration and new experiences. It also provides a sense of accomplishment and is a nice keepsake.

Westport Lifestyle | December 2019

PL AY Getting from place to place at Palmetto Bluff is a fun activity. The resort provides bicycles: the preferred method for exploring the grounds. Along the way you’ll find bocce ball, croquet and clay tennis courts. They even have pickle ball! Kids love exploring the professionally made tree houses, one of which is five stories tall and offers a view of the surrounding forest and marshlands. Take out a kayak and explore the waterways or grab a fishing pole and try your luck in the well-stocked lagoon. If Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate, there is a bowling alley and an adjacent game room to keep you busy until the sun comes out again. Palmetto Bluff also has an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus golf course. Like most things on the bluff, the course was built with conservation in mind. The course, the bunkers and greens blend in seamlessly with the landscape so you’ll wonder what was natural and what was intentional. The Lowcountry has no shortage of water, and you’ll find the greens often flanked by challenging water hazards. Montage Palmetto Bluff is a unique experience for you to have fun, unwind and reconnect with family and friends while enjoying the best the Lowcountry has to offer. MontageHotels.com/PalmettoBluff

The greens adjacent to the marsh

December 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

429 Post Road East, Westport 4 2 4 . 2 93 .76 6 3 W W W. AW E S O M E TOYS .C O M

WISHING YOU A HAPPY HOLIDAY & A PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR

F R O M A L L O F U S AT A W E S O M E T OY S & G I F T S

Shop Online, By Phone or In Person. FREE Same Day Pick Up or Local Delivery With A $25 Purchase. FREE Wrapping, Birthday Cards And Batteries When Required But Not Included.

C O M E P L AY W I T H U S ! We have a friendly knowledgeable staff to help you with all your gift buying needs. We open early and close late 7 days a week for your shopping convenience. Free weekly events. Awesome cafe for coffee and free Wifi while your kids play!

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LOCALS ONLY

Attention Shoppers SAVVY + GRACE TAKES BACK DOWNTOWN WESTPORT ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG PHOTOGRAPHY MINDY BRIAR

THOSE WHO KNOW ME KNOW THAT I’M A SHOPPER. I prefer the term “smart and stylish consumer” but, like most of my self-glorifying terms, it hasn’t stuck. Nevertheless, I am in an excellent position to recommend Savvy + Grace (S+G) for every gift you don’t trust your spouse or beloved other to properly select. Gracing the cellar floor of an antique home on Main Street, within selfie range of Brandy Melville’s and across from J.Crew, S+G is a surprisingly large mini-department store with a baffling amount of merchandise. Owner Annette Norton smiles, “I buy with turbo-charged enthusiasm.” S+G is a Mom & Pop shop, yes, but one that is trying to drive a spear through the virtual Cerberus guarding the gates to the internet’s cyber-shoppers. With items from $9 to over $1,000, Annette’s prices are equal to or better than those clicked into carts AND she offers beautiful gift-wrapping free of charge. If you think you’ll miss those floppy Amazon gift bags, think again: they’re ugly. She points to an item on her shelf “I have the best prices every day. I was in a store that sells the same [item] for $75, then marks it down to $35,” she instantiates. “I sell this every day for $29.99.” A large collection of impossibly soft Ugg apparel and slippers transforms the main room into a land of cozy. “I’m one of only 40 Ugg apparel retailers in the country!” She boasts. I coveted an off-white turtleneck sweater which I Googled the moment I fired up my laptop (solely for research purposes, of course). I found it on several retail sites for $8 more than her price, plus the cost of shipping, and no free gift wrap. Alongside designers items from Ugg and Kate Spade is a well-curated but abundant selection of chic jewelry, Annette Norton, owner of Savvy + Grace.

Westport Lifestyle | December 2019

Holiday gift wrap free of charge! Ugg slippers.

Westport-branded items, darling children’s clothing and toys, luxurious but affordable bath accoutrements, and unique things like cocktails-in-a-jar, colorful map-of-Connecticut serving platters, candy pizzas, and a retro freezer full of Good Humor ice cream treats (“so my girls will want to hang out here.”). Many warned her against opening a store on Main Street. I mean, seriously? We should praise her for taking the risk, not exhort her. Her innovative and unique mix of merchandise has already garnered a loyal following and pretty much everyone who wanders in skips out with at least one purchase. Inspiration and raison d’etre for S+G are twofold. First, Annette explains, “There are other busy moms like me who forget to order [gifts] on line. Here, you can get it today, the same price as the internet or better, and gift wrap for free.” Second, and more important, Annette wants to bring downtown back. “Westporters are proud of their town and will never lose Main Street,” she affirms. She grew up eating lunch at Onion Alley and scribbling pens on the small pads of paper at Klein’s. She recalls Henry Lehr and the Remarkable Book Store. The “real” downtown Westport “is in my heart,” she remarks. She envisions her two teenage daughters turning off their iPhones and wandering around the real world, just as she did years ago. Now back to shopping. Being the smart and stylish consumer I am, I couldn’t resist a puka shell choker on black leather in one of her jewelry cases. After doing a quick internet search (solely for research

Savvy + Grace

purposes, of course), I couldn’t find anything I liked as well. But the

146 Main St, Westport

closest I came was $3 more than her price and out of stock.

savvyandgracewestport.com

Take that, internet.

@savvyandgracewestport December 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

Wishing you a healthy holiday season & a happy new year!

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ARTICLE MARISA MACLEAN

G I F T G U I D E BUY LOCAL, OR BYE-BYE LOCAL!

HAVING A TOUGH TIME FINDING INTERESTING GIFTS? Solidarity. So we’re featuring the coolest gift ideas for men, women, kids, and furry friends. The best part is, every item is locally made, locally owned or locally sold, and suitable for any gift-giving occasion (except for the reindeer stocking holder. That’s sort of specific to the holiday season.) So close your Amazon app, put down your cell phone and consider supporting our local businesses. They’re your neighbors, after all. And they know where you live…

Westport Lifestyle | December 2019

G I F T S

F O R 2.

1. 1. Westport Cut & Shave Haircut and Shave Package, $90, Westport Cut & Shave, Westport

2. Holebrook Swedish Lined Wind-Proof Sweater, $275, Stephen Kempson London, Westport

3. Ugg Indoor/Outdoor Full Grain Leather Loafer with Sherpa Lining, $120, available at Savvy + Grace, Westport 4. Field Trip Snacks Free Range Turkey No Antibiotics Cracked Pepper Turkey Stick, makes a great stocking stuffer, $2 each, Field Trip Snacks, Westport

5. Savannah Bee Company Sourwood Reserve Honey: Each bottle is numbered, dipped in beeswax and signed by the founder of the company, $99, Savannah Bee Company, Westport 6. Homemade Gin Kit, $58, terrain, Westport

8. 7.

7. Outdoor Survival Kit, $24, terrain, Westport 8. Vineyard Vines Football Whale Long-Sleeve Pocket T-Shirt $48, Vineyard Vines, Westport 9. Brooks Brothers Waxed Canvas and Leather Dopp Kit, $68, Brooks Brothers, Westport

11.

13. 14.

10. Hand Painted Fender Strat Replica Electric Guitar By V. Andriotis, price available upon request, Westport River Gallery, Westport 11. 203 Pint Glass (2 pack) and Wooden Bottle Opener, $25, shopthe203.com

10.

12. Santos De Cartier Watch, Large Model, Automatic, Gold and Steel, Interchangeable Leather and Metal Bracelets, price available upon request, Lenox Jewelers, Fairfield

12.

Him

13. Mantel Stocking Holder, 2.75" X 9.75" $40, Tusk Home + Design, Westport 14. 1420 Hemped Rye Whiskey, handcrafted in small batches from rye, corn and hemp seed,$39.99, SoNo 1420 American Craft Distillers, South Norwalk CONTINUED >

December 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

GIFT GUIDE (CON TI N U ED)

G I F T S

Westport Lifestyle | December 2019

F O R

Her

9. James Banks Tiny Baby Asterope Migration Bracelet, $720, Mitchells, Westport

10.

10. Save the Duck 100% Animal-Free, Highest Technology Fabric and Fill Quilted 'Skin' Jacket, $248, Savvy + Grace, Westport 11. Sticks & Stones Massage: The perfect combination…hot stones relax while heated bamboo sticks relieve tension. $150, Dream Spa & Salon, Westport

11.

12. Beyond Yoga Alloy Ombré High-Waist Leggings, $110, Pure Barre, Westport

12.

13. JL Rocks 18K Ice Drop Diamond Laser Cut Necklace On a Bubble Chain With 9 Diamonds, .54 Ct. Available in rose, white or yellow gold, $1400, JL Rocks, Westport

13.

14.

14. Savannah Bee Company Royal Jelly Body Butter: like a mini spa in a jar, $16 - $28 depending on size, Savannah Bee Company, Westport

1. 2. 4.

1. Welden Bags Excursion Saddle Bag in Stone, $395, Fred Sip + Shop, Westport and WeldenBags.com

2. Kerri Rosenthal Patchwork Love Dark Orange and Pink 100% Cashmere Sweater; $350, Kerri Rosenthal, Westport 3. Large Perforated Bucket Bag in Cognac, $60, shown with the Sophisticated Strap, $40, Eleven11Box.com

6. 5.

4. Blow Dry Westport Gift Card and The Perfect Shower Cap to protect your beautiful blowout! Gift cards available in 3, 6, 12, and 52 packs, Blow Dry, Westport 5. Ballon Bleu De Cartier Watch 36 MM, Yellow Gold, Diamonds, price available upon request, Lenox Jewelers, Fairfield 6. "September Sky" by Kris Davenport Toohey is inspired by the vibrant Saugatuck salt-marshes, 20 x 20 inches, oil, $900, KrisDavenportToohey.com

8. 7.

7. 7" & 8” Round x 14” Tall Vase With Copper Bottom, $48, Tusk Home + Design, Westport 8. Puffer Beany Hat, can be customized with any school name, catch phrase or your favorite saying, $50, thepaperalley.com

CONTINUED >

December 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

GIFT GUIDE (CON TI N U ED)

G I F T S

Westport Lifestyle | December 2019

F O R

Kids + Pets

7. Teddy Sherpa Pram, $56; Matching Teddy Soother, $20, Savvy + Grace, Westport 8. Chewy Vuitton Dog Bone Toy: available in 3 sizes, $13.95-$22.95, Savvy + Grace, Westport 9. Earth Animal ‘The Feast’ Holiday No-Hide Chew: made of turkey, pumpkin and cranberries, Earth Animal, Westport

10. Icee Machine, $130, Groove, Westport 11. Pop-Art Custom Silhouettes on Plexiglass by local artist Antonio Munoz, price available upon request, AntonioMStudio.com 12. Woodland Nesting Doll Set, $28, terrain, Westport

12.

11.

13. Pendleton Camp Pet Bed, $124, terrain, Westport

10. 13.

1. 4. 3.

1. Savannah Bee 'Bee the Balm' Gift Set, $19.99, Savannah Bee, Westport

2. JoJo Maman Bébé Blend & Make Wooden Smoothie Set, $39, JoJo Maman Bébé, Westport 3. Oh Spit Baby Gifts Eco-Friendly, Resin Necklace Personalized With Any Child’s Name, $32, email Ohspitbaby@gmail.com to place your custom order

4. Barbie Dream House, $189.99, Awesome Toys & Gifts, Westport 5. Globber Electric Scooter, $279.99, Awesome Toys & Gifts, Westport 6. Locally Grown PJ Set, $32, sizes from 6 months to 6T, shopthe203.com

December 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG | PHOTOGRAPHY MINDY BRIAR

CRAZY FABULOUS PARTY CLOTHES WESTPORT DAZZLES WITH HIP LOCAL BOUTIQUES

WESTPORT LIFESTYLE HAD A MISSION FOR MARIA RISSO ROWBOTHAM OF STYLE BY RISSO (@STYLEBYRISSO): DRESS FIVE OF OUR READERS IN FESTIVE OUTFITS FROM LOCAL BOUTIQUES. We selected three of our favorite shops: Fred Sip and Shop, West, and Scout & Molly’s of Westport. I accompanied Maria on her style pulls (and heroically volunteered to model a sixth irresistible ensemble) and was amazed by the confidence and ease with which she selected and assembled car-stopping looks. Moreover, I was dazzled by the selection of spectacular and unique threads available in our downtown shops. The result? Stunning outfits for every holiday soirée, from gala events to dinner parties. Or to simply throw on after the kids have their tantrums as a gentle reminder that life still rocks. Shop local, look amazing, and have fun, Westport! Stylist: Maria Risso Rowbotham @stylebyrisso Clothing: West @west2westport Fred @thefredshop Scout & Molly’s of Westport @scoutandmollyswestport Hair and Makeup: Blow Dry Westport @blowdry_sw Location: Design Within Reach Westport @designwithinreach Photography: Mindy Briar @mindybriar 36

Westport Lifestyle | December 2019

Stylist’s tip #1:

Mix metals! Gold and silver can be combined in the most beautiful ways. I love a silver blouse with gold accessories. Balance it with a grounding solid color like a shade of green, red or pink.

RAWLEIGH MORSE Top: West; RTA $165 Pants: West; cinq à sept $395 Earrings: Fred; Dannijo $350

SARAH BOKSA Sweater: Fred; Le Superbe $375 Rawleigh Morse

Daniela Ackley

Skirt: Fred; Le Superbe $345 Earrings: Fred; Jenny Bird $65

Sarah Boksa

DANIELA ACKLEY Dress: West; cinq à sept $395 Ring: Fred; Jenny Bird $72

CONTINUED >

December 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

CRAZY FABULOUS PARTY CLOTHES (CON TI N UED)

ROBIN MOYER CHUNG Dress: Scout and Molly’s of Westport; Hutch $450 Earrings: Scout and Molly’s of Westport; Mignonne Gavigan $175

Stylist’s tip #2: Invest in timeless pieces. A great coat, well-tailored pants, the perfect white button-down these three pieces alone can be the base of a great wardrobe.

Robin Moyer Chung

With stylist Maria Risso Rowbotham.

Stylist’s tip #3:

Lip color. Find a daytime and a nighttime shade for your skin tone, especially when you are wearing shades of white and grey. It really helps your skin tone pop. Tip: when trying lip shades, go outside to check the color. Store lighting isn’t always the best.

Westport Lifestyle | December 2019

Stylist’s tip #4:

Tailoring. Everyone needs it. We are not one size fits all. Well-tailored clothing makes all the difference. For example, A wide-leg pant is so chic but not everyone can pull off so much fabric, so have the legs taken in a bit to get the best proportion and silhouette.

ANNALYCE LORETTO Jumpsuit: Fred; Allen Schwartz $465

Annalyce Loretto

RUBY HEDGE Pants: Fred; Le Superbe $425 Blazer: Models Own Earring (worn as brooch): Scout and Molly; Mignonne Gavigan $125 (for the pair)

Stylist’s tip #5: Update your LBD: Take your favorite little black dress and add accessories! It’s easy to forget how much an accessory can finish a look. Dangly sparkly earrings elevate a little black dress in an instant.

Ruby Hedge December 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

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December 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

GIVING BACK

Yes, Westport, There Is a Santa Claus ARTICLE ROBIN MOYER CHUNG

Neighborhood Al's Angel-ade Lemonade stand.

Lights on the Cribari Bridge.

Filling bins for Thanksgiving dinners.

YES, WESTPORT, THERE IS A SANTA CLAUS His name is Al Diguido Ah, Cribari Bridge: the narrowest fully-functioning bridge in modern society. If Saugatuck is a toothpaste tube full of cars, Cribari is the aperture through which the traffic laboriously squeezes. Every holiday season Al Diguido and a few helpful folks sparkle up Cribari with thousands of colored lights, making the journey from gridlock to disgorgement almost… festive. Bringing light to the downtrodden is what Al does. And, yeah, calling luxury cars traversing a traffic clot is a lousy metaphor for “downtrodden,” but work with me. So why light the bridge? According to Al, “The number one reason I’ve done this all these years is because we need to be a light in the world. There’s enough darkness.” 42

Westport Lifestyle | December 2019

To volunteer or donate to Al's Angels, visit AlsAngels.org Or: Email: info@AlsAngels.org Phone: (203) 254-1759

The darkness to which he’s referring is the families of children with cancer. Families whose lives and finances have been depleted by medical costs and consumed with attending to their sick kids. His story began 24 years ago when he attended a fundraiser, eager to see a few Giants team members. Toward the end of the evening several mothers of children with cancer came out to speak, thanking the attendees for their contributions. Al realized the money he had spent for his ticket was going to families who had drained their savings to care for their ill children. Realistically, it’s tough to fathom that level of need when we live in a town that sells $250 t-shirts. But Al did, and does. Seeing these women, stripped of privacy and pride, was an epiphany. From that moment forward, he devoted his free time to creating Al’s Angels, a virtual organization with no paid employees, dedicated to raising money and comforts for these families. His ultimate goal: ridding the world of childhood cancer. When it comes to helping these families, Al kicks it old-school. Though social media enables legions of beneficent individuals and businesses to raise money with relative ease, Al gets gritty filling the bins and hanging the lights and delivLights on the Cribari Bridge (Photo: John Videler)

ering the gifts without selfies or social media to immortalize every move.

CONTINUED >

December 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

GIVING BACK (CON TI N U ED)

The nice guy from Brooklyn with kids and grandkids eschews praise

Clearly not the most charming or eloquent of donors, but the

and has a gift for galvanizing people.“God gave me the gift to talk to

statement bears truth. Al has discovered his key to spiritual fulfill-

people, to get people to do this,” he admits. “I’m not benefiting any

ment and is inviting everyone to share the experience.

way but spiritually.” His work ethic and authenticity proves a success-

Every year after Thanksgiving dinner, to mark the beginning of the

ful recipe for raising millions of dollars for children and families in need.

holiday season, he and his family wander down to the Cribari Bridge

While Al’s Angels raises funds from events like Angel-ade

to shove a plug into an outlet, setting aglow its wrought iron trusses

Lemonade stands and fundraisers throughout the year, holiday time is when their halos shine brightest (and busiest). The most famous of these holiday events is the delivery of

and startling drivers passing through them. Next time you’re driving, or stuck, beneath the blazing rafters, realize that each point of illumination tells a story such as this:

Thanksgiving dinner. On a Saturday in November Gault clears out

A young boys’ baseball team raised $2,000 for Al’s Angels. They

its Bridgeport warehouse and Penske trucks deliver fixings for

excitedly bulldozed into Fairfield’s Saugatuck Sweets to hand

Thanksgiving feasts at 5 a.m. Al and 1,000 volunteers begin packing

their donations to Al. To celebrate, Al gave them all ice cream.

bins at 6 a.m. and have 2,000 meals ready for delivery by noon.

They ate, then left the shop. One parent coach hung back to thank

Volunteers can be anyone, any age. Al has only one rule: treat the task with respect. He’s been known to halt the packing process to remind workers that “each bin represents a family” and should be afforded the proper dignity.

him because “He was the recipient of a bin,” Al said. “Sadly, he lost his child.” Sometimes a light is much more than a lightbulb, and an angel is no more than a person. AlsAngels.org

A representative of Stony Brook Cancer Center says of those who load the bins, “They are offering hope, sustenance and the chance to be a family by sharing in food preparation and a meal at home.” It’s tricky to discern the reason for Al’s philanthropic success. I mean, yes, he’s a great guy. But there are a lot of great people and compelling

SPECIAL NOTE: Al’s Angels and Saugatuck Rowing Club (SRC) are happy to announce the First Official Bridge-Lighting Holiday Festival at SRC.

charitable opportunities in Westport. One donor tried to articulate Al’s

The Festival is slated for slated for Friday, November 29 from

Angels’ appeal, stating, “I’m the most cynical *@&# in the world and I

6:30-9:30 at SRC. There’ll be music, snacks, drinks, and treats for

give to charities to assuage guilt. But somehow Al’s Angels makes me

all ages and a more formalized bridge lighting. For more informa-

happy to give to them. He’s found a different way to fill your soul.”

tion, go to AlsAngels.org or SaugatuckRowing.com

Westport Lifestyle | December 2019

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PHOTOGRAPHY NICKI SEBASTIAN FOR JENNI KAYNE

Westport Lifestyle | December 2019

FORSYTHIA Named after William Forsyth, a Scottish botanist, Forsythia is an early spring flowering shrub often found in gardens and parks. Forsythia are well-known for their resilience and tenacity as much as the bright, cheery yellow of the branches’ blooms.

RANUNCULUS Also known as the buttercup, these spring bloomers are coveted for their delicate layers of petals, resembling ruffled tissue or crepe. In a wide range of vivid shades, ranunculus can bloom from late winter to early summer.

TWEEDIA This delicate perennial is coveted for its light fragrance and pale blue star-shaped petals. Found commonly in vines and trellises, tweedias are prime for an arrangement as they cut well and last long.

LADY SLIPPER Characterized by the slipper-shaped pouch (or labellum) that sits between the petals, these orchids range in color from white and yellow to a deep pink and purple. The lady slipper might take four to sixteen years to produce a bloom, but it’s worth the wait—in comparison to other, more temperamental orchids, this type can be considered fairly low-maintenance.

NARCISSUS Daffodils are instantly recognizable by their six petals surrounding a trumpet-like corona, most often in variances of white, yellow, or both. The ubiquity of the daffodil dates back to ancient times, both medicinally and botanically. They have been said to get their name because the image of languid daffodils along a stream evoke the image of Narcissus gazing into his reflection.

KRISTEN CAISSIE, CREATIVE DIRECTOR AND FOUNDER OF MOON CANYON DESIGN CO., created this beautiful flower arrangement as part of Jenni Kayne’s floral encyclopedia. This lush arrangement is comprised of early spring blooms arranged in a ceramic vase. The wabi-sabi aesthetic of the handmade vessel adds to the arrangement’s playful proportions. Earthy yellows, rich greens, and a touch of blue tell a color story that’s unexpected, yet warm and welcoming. Perfectly undone early spring blooms (Kristen’s favorite to design with) emphasize the meeting place of winter and spring.

December 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

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Westport Lifestyle | December 2019

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December 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

DECEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

In this production, based upon John

MENORAH LIGHTING

Company, the story is told by children

Caird and Trevor Nunn’s 1982 adaptation for London’s Royal Shakespeare in the early 1900s, acting out the

Downtown Westport

All

are

Jewish

invited

join

four

classic tale with objects found in their

congregations

—

The

attic. WestportPlayhouse.org

Westport,

Beit

Chaverim,

and Temple Israel — at the corner of Main Street and Post Road East to watch the annual lighting of the Hannukah menorah. (Time and date subject to change.)

Lockwood Mathews Mansion, 295 West Avenue, Norwalk

laughter-filled

literary

noon

CHRISTMAS AT THE COLEY BARN

son! JibProductions.org

irresistible,

after-

soul-stir-

ring short plays and stories in celebration of the holiday sea-

Coley Homestead,

104 Weston Road, Weston

"Christmas at the Coley Barn" is a

wonderful way for families to enjoy

AN EVENING WITH DAVID BLIGHT

Coley Barn. (Date and time subject

the festive spirit with a photo taken with Santa and his elf in the historic

19 SAUGATUCK SOCIAL: YULE STORIES

Westport Historical Society

Westport Library

to change.)

Join in the sharing of stories,

Join Historian and Pulitzer Prize-

For details on the event schedule, con-

poems, historic essays and music

winning writer David Blight when he

tact WestonHistoricalSociety.org or

with the rest of the community.

speaks about abolitionist and politi-

call the museum office 203-226-1804.

Listen as others present original

cal activist Frederick Douglass.

works or pre-selected pieces from

Blight’s masterpiece is the first major biography of Douglass in a quarter century and offers new insight into the life and legacy of one of this country’s most towering figures. EventBrite.com

history such as the Declaration of

ONE STEP AHEAD OF THE TAX MAN: MINIMIZING TAXES

ous backgrounds.

will be served.

WILTON ROCKS FOR FOOD

next April. WestportLibrary.org

tax savings. Now is the time to plan

for

Food

ahead so that you don’t get surprised

4-hour music concert fundraiser to benefit the Connecticut Food Bank and the Wilton Food pantry. 100% of money raised goes to charity. WiltonRocks.com

year end, could add up to significant

Rocks

Address and yule stories from vari-

The actions you take now, before

7 Wilton

Independence or the Gettysburg

Westport Library

Trackside Teen Center, Wilton

SEASON'S READINGS FROM PLAY WITH YOUR FOOD A

Conservative Synagogue, Chabad of

13 OPENING RECEPTION FOR AT THE WATER'S EDGE

20 THE ALPACA GNOMES

Wall Street Theater, 71 Wall St., Norwalk

Born from humble beginnings in the Black Rock section of Bridgeport, CT, The Alpaca Gnomes cut their teeth in the neighborhood bar scene. This

Westport Library

seven-piece original rock, folk, jam

Opening Reception for back At the

band will return to Wall Street stage

Water’s Edge: Beach Photography in

this December as part of their annual

Westport & Neighboring Towns by

holiday toy drive show. Discounted

PETER PAN

Larry Silver, from 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

tickets available at the door with a

Amid winter’s chill, enjoy the photo-

donation of a toy.

Westport Country Playhouse

graphic warmth of summer images

Peter Pan and Tinker-bell whisk

at local and neighboring beaches by

Wendy and her brothers to Neverland

this noted Westport photographer.

where they encounter Captain Hook

Exhibit runs December 6, 2019 - February

and his band of pirates.

25, 2020 WestportLibrary.org

Westport Lifestyle | December 2019

CONTINUED >

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SAVE THE DATE! A SPECIAL WEEKEND OF DOWNTOWN HOLIDAY SHOPPING

DEC 6-8 For more info: WESTPORTDMA.COM

The Aegean Sea

by Modernist J. Fatse

Westport River Gallery One Riverside Ave, Westport 203.226.6934 • WestportRiverGallery.com 54

Westport Lifestyle | December 2019

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SavvyAndGraceWestport.com December 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

rg o . t c f o t c Visit a information & s t e k c i t r

20 CHRISTMAS WITH THE CELTS Ridgefield Playhouse

DECEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

Christmas with the Celts returns to The Ridgefield Playhouse after sold-out performances for the past

four seasons! This holiday show features a mix of lively traditional Irish music and instrumentation with American pop music and their own originals, along

with ancient Irish and Scottish carols and traditional Christmas favorites. The Celts lineup stars, Ric Blair

on vocal-guitar-bodhran & piano along with female lead singer and all Ireland champion fiddler and Irish

FEB 6 MAR 8

dancer, Eimear Arkins. Rick and Eimear will be complemented by an array of top-flight musicians on uille-

ann pipes, Irish whistles, fiddle, bodhran, banjo, five-

string bass, drums and of course, the crowd-pleasing Irish dancers. Christmas with The Celts isn’t just a concert; it’s a celebration of the holiday spirit, people, community and common connections!

31 FIRST LIGHT FESTIVAL

Westport Museum for History and Culture

Join Westport Museum for History and Culture for a night of family fun on New Year’s Eve for events at the museum and around town. The 2nd Annual First Light Festival celebrates the dawning of the New Year and will include many of the beloved activities that Westporters and visitors have enjoyed in years past including carriage rides, face painting, tarot readings, a warming fire, live music and much more!

Inspired by Community

Activities take place from 4 pm until 10pm. Locations and activity details coming soon! Buttons are $10 online at www.westporthistory.org or $15 at the door. No charge for children 2 years old and under. Please pick up buttons at the Westport Museum!

It’s time to think

locally

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to deliver your message to the most affluent families in our community.

Westport-Lifestyle.com 56

Westport Lifestyle | December 2019

We are always accepting submissions for events you'd like to see included in our Calendar section. Submissions are accepted via the Contact Us tab at Westport-Lifestyle.com.

saugatuck-financial.com 203.221.5275 | 274 Riverside Avenue, Westport, CT

Al Schor | Justin Charise, CFP® Comprehensive Financial Planning Wealth Management | Estate Planning Insurance, Retirement and Tax Strategies

JOIN US FOR THE HOLIDAYS

All investments carry some level of risk, including the potential loss of principal invested. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss. Saugatuck Financial is a marketing name for Justin Charise and Al Schor and is not a broker-dealer, registered investment advisor, federal savings bank, subsidiary or other corporate affiliate of The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company including its subsidiaries, nor is it a legal partnership or entity. Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company, Milwaukee, WI (NM), and its subsidiaries. Charise and Schor are representatives of Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company®, NMWMC Milwaukee, WI, a subsidiary of NM and limited purpose federal savings bank, and registered representatives of Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (securities), a subsidiary of NM, registered investment adviser, broker-dealer and member FINRA and SIPC. All NMWMC products and services are offered only by properly credentialed representatives who operate from agency offices of NMWMC.

THE WHELK FOR CHRISTMAS EVE JESUP HALL FOR NEW YEARS DAY KAWA NI FOR BOTH!

December 2019 | Westport Lifestyle

CULINARY CREATIONS

ARTICLE MARISA MACLEAN

PUNCH THAT PACKS A WALLOP

HOLIDAY PARTY PUNCH

INGREDIENTS + 1 bottle sparkling cider + 4 cups cranberry juice + 1 liter ginger ale + 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, about 2 lemons + 1 orange, sliced + 1 cup of whole cranberries + 12 ounces vodka (optional) INSTRUCTIONS In a large bowl, over ice combine all of the liquid ingredients. Float the orange slices and cranberries on top for garnish. Enjoy!

LOOKING FOR A HANDS-OFF WAY TO SERVE DRINKS AT YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY? TRY OUR SELF-SERVE PUNCH RECIPE!

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Westport Lifestyle | December 2019

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