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February invites us to slow down and notice what we love, and more often than not, that love starts right at home. This Local Love issue is about the people, traditions, and experiences that make Westport feel connected.
We open with First Selectman Kevin Christie, who shares a look at stepping into his new role and the responsibility that comes with leading a town he cares deeply about. His perspective sets the stage for a broader conversation about community, stewardship, and what it truly means to show up for one another.
That sense of showing up continues with J. Ashley Fitness, where women of all ages and experience levels are finding strength, not just physically, but in confidence and camaraderie. It is a reminder that love for our community often begins with taking care of ourselves and lifting each other along the way.
Relationships sit at the heart of this issue. We are sharing four local love stories, featuring four couples, four journeys, and one town woven through every chapter. Each story is different, yet all are grounded in the same sense of place that keeps people here year after year.
Place also matters when it comes to tradition. Inside The Westport Library, the annual crossword puzzle contest returns for its 27th year, bringing together generations of puzzle lovers for a celebration of curiosity, connection, and a little friendly competition.
Connection often happens around the table, and Marcia Selden Catering shows us how food can tell a story of its own. Through thoughtful menus and meaningful gatherings, Robin Selden shares how they crafts experiences that turn moments into lasting memories, something we can all appreciate this time of year.
As Valentine’s Day approaches, we have put together a guide to shopping for quality, giftable jewelry that feels personal and enduring, because the best gifts are chosen with intention. In this season of appreciation, we are proud to shine a light on VFW Post 399, whose service and dedication to our community reflect a powerful kind of love.
You will also find a special “To My Valentine,” a quiet reminder that love does not need to be grand to be meaningful, along with a family travel feature on the Four Seasons Resort Nevis, an unforgettable escape that felt cinematic and offered a reminder of how shared experiences become the stories we carry with us.
However love shows up in your life this month, through family, friendship, service, tradition, or simply the town we call home, we hope this issue leaves you feeling connected and inspired.
With local love,
February 2026
PUBLISHER
Marisa MacLean | marisa.maclean@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Sara Gaynes Levy | sara.gayneslevy@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Marisa MacLean, Robin Selden, Elizabeth Ginns
Britten, Yael L. Maxwell, Kevin Christie
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Bevy Rutledge
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 Brandy Thomas
MARISA MACLEAN, PUBLISHER @WESTPORTLIFESTYLE
3:5-6
The newest Westport landmark is a classically styled clock at the corner of Main Street and Elm Street, paid for by the Westport Downtown Association. It includes a nod to the town's founding in 1835, and evokes both classic New England downtowns and the clock at Grand Central Station, reminding shoppers of Westport's heritage and cosmopolitan proximity to New York City. Check it out!
Photography by Dave Robbins
The Beanie Project was created in memory of Westporter Nat Brogadir—a mission powered by Madison Aballi’s Mitzvah Project and The Swag Lab, together with Nat's wife Jenny and daughters Hadley and Kira—to give back to a cause important to him and connect those missing him. So far, they've raised more than $30,000 selling beanies (Nat's signature accessory) with 100 percent of proceeds donated to End Jew Hatred. For info or to order, visit thebeanieproject.itemorder.com
The Brogadir Family, Photography Courtesy of The Beanie Project.
The second outpost of Naya in Connecticut—a Middle Eastern fast casual restaurant—has opened at 413 Post Rd E, #5. The restaurant celebrated their grand opening in December with an event supporting Person to Person, a nonprofit agency supporting families and individuals as they move toward stability with healthy food, clothing, housing assistance, and a path to economic opportunity. For more information, visit eatnaya.com
ARTICLE BY KEVIN CHRISTIE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JERRI GRAHAM
First Selectman Kevin Christie gives us a glimpse into his new role.
Written December 13, 2025
Westport’s strength has always come from its people and community. From our neighborhoods and schools to our businesses, beaches, and cultural institutions, what stands out most is a shared sense of care and commitment. Residents show up for one another, volunteer their time, and take pride in making this town a place that feels both welcoming and connected. That spirit is on display every day, and it continues to define who we are as a community.
Over the past several weeks, Westport has been in constant motion. Community events, holiday traditions, school activities, and gatherings large and small have reflected a town that is engaged and energized. Whether at local celebrations, community meetings, or informal conversations around town, it’s clear there is a strong sense of optimism paired with a desire to plan thoughtfully for the future.
Inside Town Hall, the work has been focused and collaborative. Every department in town plays a role in keeping Westport running each day, and their shared commitment to serving residents is evident throughout our community. Early budget planning is underway, with
careful attention to understanding needs, identifying opportunities, and managing resources responsibly. This approach is grounded in listening first, building shared understanding, and making decisions with a long-term perspective.
Across the community, many priorities have come up again and again. Residents care deeply about maintaining strong schools, investing responsibly in infrastructure, improving traffic flow, safety, and connectivity, and supporting a vibrant downtown and local business community. They also value environmental stewardship, well-maintained parks and recreational assets, access to open space, and thoughtful conversations about housing. Westporters expect a town government that communicates clearly, plans responsibly, and stays closely connected with the community. These shared priorities help guide where we focus our time and energy.
Our local economy continues to be a point of pride, supported by a diverse mix of small businesses, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs. Community support for local shops and restaurants helps keep our town center active and welcoming. At the same time, ongoing conversations about
Westporters expect a town government that communicates clearly, plans responsibly, and stays closely connected with the community.
infrastructure, facilities, and quality-of-life investments reflect a shared commitment to maintaining what makes Westport special while preparing for the years ahead.
Even in a town with so much to be proud of, there is always opportunity to plan more thoughtfully, invest tax dollars more wisely, and make Westport even stronger for the next generation.
The work is already underway. The focus remains on listening, planning responsibly, and delivering results that reflect our community’s values. The work ahead belongs to all of us. I am grateful for the trust Westporters have placed in the Board of Selectmen, and I look forward to continuing this work together as we build on the strengths of this remarkable town.
J. ASHLEY FITNESS OFFERS EXERCISE CLASSES FOR WOMEN OF ALL EXPERIENCE LEVELS, WITH THE GOAL OF BUILDING STRENGTH AND CONFIDENCE.
Fitness has always been a part of Janine Trembicki’s life, but she never imagined her journey to creating an inspirational workout culture would enable hundreds of Westportarea women to find a community of strength and self-love.
Her successful women-only gym, J. Ashley Fitness—which is now located at 623 Post Rd E., after former iterations behind Shake Shack and in her garage—is the result of taking risks inspired by her two sons and a general love of exercise. Janine played Division I soccer in college, has run several marathons, and loves a good deadlift.
ARTICLE BY YAEL L. MAXWELL
She started her career working in events, but eventually Janine opted to teach group fitness classes—first at The Bar Method and then at Burn Boot Camp—to stay closer to home. When studios closed following the pandemic, and a divorce limited her ability to work early hours, she got creative and began teaching small classes out of her garage, which her neighbor kindly offered to outfit as a makeshift gym. She’d never thought of herself as a personal trainer, but Janine’s friends and family did, and she needed a way to support her sons while also having the flexibility to care for them. Word spread, and she soon found herself looking for a more permanent home.
“I was there for a year, and then it became a big problem because I was having like 12 cars parked outside,” she says. “It was a good problem to have.” A few years later, she again felt the need to expand out of her 500-square-foot space and took over the old Club Sweat location on Post Road, which opened in June of 2025.
“It was definitely a stretch,” Janine says. “But I was like, you’ve got to take risks sometimes. And so, I went for it.”
J. Ashley Fitness offers a roster of daily 45-minute classes all designed by Janine, though some are taught by her team, as well as personal training. What sets her workouts apart from others is the comfort of being surrounded by only women, as well as the focus on building strength, even on days dedicated to cardiovascular training. For people without experience, especially, “lifting weights is intimidating,” she says. “For women to come into a gym, it’s a big deal. And I think just with an all-women vibe, people are more comfortable, they’re more helpful, and it’s just a different energy.”
She also inspires her clients with one of her favorite mottos: I get to. “There have been so many times in life when I haven’t been able to move the way I want to because of injury, illness, or obligations. When I feel unmotivated, I stay disciplined by telling myself I get to. That alone gets me to start.”
While not exclusively, many of her clients are mothers, and Janine prides herself on being able to offer them workouts tailored to the specific needs of prenatal and postpartum bodies. “We get so lost in being a mom and doing so much for everybody else, and seeing the 45 minutes that my clients take for themselves makes
me so happy,” she says. “They feel like they can go be a good mom now and know that they took care of themselves, too.”
For Janine, getting stronger means loving yourself. “When you are strong, and you lift, and you gain strength, and you’re physically active and physically able to do things, you just are more confident,” she says. “That’s what lifting does. That’s what weights do. No one really understands it until they do it. And then I’m like, just give it time. Ultimately, it clicks, and it just keeps you wanting to come back for more.”
To learn more, visit jashleyfitness.com or call 203-212-1988.
“SHE INSPIRES HER CLIENTS WITH ONE OF HER FAVORITE MOTTOS: I GET TO.”
ARTICLE BY ELIZABETH GINNS BRITTEN
FOUR COUPLES, FOUR JOURNEYS, AND ONE TOWN THAT TIES EVERY CHAPTER TOGETHER.
Murray & Diane McCoy: A Second Chance, 43 Years Later
Some love stories unfold quickly. Others take their time—circling back when the moment is right. For Westport’s Chris Murray and Diane McCoy, their story spans decades, continents, careers, and one unforgettable reunion in the very town where it all began.
Chris and Diane first met on the first day of Staples High School in 1966, seated near each other in homeroom thanks to the alphabetical pull of their last names. He was a soccer player and golfer; she was a cheerleader and, as Chris recalls, “the It Girl.” He borrowed her pencil to get her attention—a small gesture that sparked their teenage romance. They dated all through high school before college pulled them in different directions: she to Colorado, he to Florida. Life moved on.
Over the next four decades, their paths diverged dramatically. Diane became an elementary school teacher, then a flight attendant based in Denver, then later out of New York. Chris discovered a passion for theater, acted off-Broadway, moved to Greece, raised two sons, and built a career in film and education before eventually returning to the U.S. Neither expected their story to intertwine again.
But when a job opportunity brought Chris back to Westport, curiosity—and nostalgia—nudged him to search for Diane. A Google search, a voicemail, and eventually a returned call brought them to a simple coffee date that stretched into six hours of effortless conversation. “We connected,” Chris says. “It just flowed.”
Their reconnection blossomed quickly. Engagement at Compo Beach. Marriage at Green’s Farms Congregational Church. A blended life filled with travel, creativity, and the familiar comforts of home.
Today, Chris and Diane live in Westport once again— Chris working on his TV series based on the life of Maria Callas, Diane as a move manager. They enjoy renovating their house, playing golf, tennis, and paddle, skiing in Utah, savoring local restaurants, going to the theater, and returning as often as they can to Compo Beach, the place where their love began and where it found its way back. Turns out, some stories really do come full circle.
CONTINUED >
For Maria DeAngelis, Westport isn’t just a hometown— it’s the thread that stitches together every chapter of her life, including the beginning of her love story with her husband, Marc Wium.
Maria grew up on Old Road, where childhood summers meant Camp Compo: sandy feet, salty skin, and long days under the iconic gray wooden playground her father helped bring to life through the Westport Lion’s Club. Her Westport memories stretch across decades—walking to Arnie’s Arcade, renting movies at Blockbuster, riding her bike to Long Lots Elementary, grabbing candy at Cathy’s Candies, cheering at the Memorial Day parade, and skating winter nights at Longshore. “Compo and Main Street really defined my childhood,” she says.
Her father, a beloved local figure who co-owned Premier Market and the Westport General Store, deepened Maria’s connection to town. Whether fishing on Riverside Avenue or working for Parks & Rec in retirement, he left his mark on nearly every corner of Westport. Even after Maria moved away, the town— especially Compo—remained a place where she felt
close to him, especially after he passed away in March of 2017.
So when Marc proposed in 2019, it was fitting that it happened at Compo Beach, just steps from the brick pavilion Maria had known since childhood. Under cotton-candy skies and surrounded by families enjoying the evening, he led her off the sidewalk and dropped to one knee. Later, they took sunset photos in the sand, splashing in the water and posing by the cannons—timeless Westport icons behind a brand-new memory.
Maria and Marc married at Assumption Church, a place woven into her family’s history across generations. After the ceremony, they returned to another meaningful spot: her father’s memorial bench at Longshore, where they captured family photos overlooking the water.
Today, Compo sunsets, Memorial Day parades, dogfriendly beach seasons, and strolls downtown continue to connect Maria and Marc to the place where her roots run deep. Though they no longer live in Westport, she says simply: “It will always be home—steady, nostalgic, and comforting. A place I can’t wait to share with our future family.”
by
For Yvonne and Guy Claveloux, love has always been intertwined with Westport itself. High school sweethearts who now live in the Evergreen neighborhood, the couple—both 60, with two grown daughters and two grandchildren—have built an entire lifetime on the same streets, fields, and beaches where their romance first bloomed. “Westport has been the constant,” Yvonne says. “Every stage of our life together has happened here.” Their story began at age 15, not through school (Long Lots for him, Bedford for her), but at The Ships—the beloved restaurant where Tiffany & Co. now stands. “That’s where it all started,” Guy recalls. “We were just kids, but something clicked right away.” By sophomore year at Staples, they were inseparable—helping each
other through French and algebra, attending every dance together, and building memories that still feel vivid. “The early ’80s gave us so much freedom,” Yvonne says. “We were always together—downtown, at the beach, or grabbing Dairy Queen after school.”
Certain places became anchors in their story. The Staples soccer field—where Guy co-captained a state-championship team and Yvonne never missed a game—created a shared community that followed them into adulthood. “So many of the people from those sidelines ended up standing beside us on our wedding day,” Guy says. Compo Beach, too, is forever theirs: the site of teenage parties, their five-year high school reunion, and the place where they reunited after a brief college breakup. “Compo has always felt like ours,” Yvonne says. At 25 years old, they were married at Assumption Church, celebrating afterward at the Westport Woman’s Club.
Today, nearly every corner of town holds a memory—from Longshore sunsets to Main Street strolls. Yvonne’s vibrant artwork is shaped by the coastal beauty they’ve always shared, while their deep involvement in Westport’s arts, sports, and charitable communities continues to ground them.
If they could tell their teenage selves anything, it would be simple: “You’ve already found your true love,” they say. “In each other—and in Westport.”
Sarah and Stefaan’s love didn’t begin with a grand moment—it began quietly, in freshman algebra at Staples.
“I don’t even remember if we spoke,” Sarah says. “But that’s where it all started.” Both Westport natives, they moved through high school in parallel circles, sneaking off campus through the same backyard paths without ever crossing. It wasn’t until senior year, brought together by mutual friends and an Environmental Studies class, that something clicked. “By the summer after graduation, I knew how much it mattered,” Stefaan recalls. “I just wanted to know we could stay together.”
Their early memories still make them laugh: sneaking into Burying Hill Beach after hours for a dance party that ended with police calls and both sets of parents meeting for the first time; the night Sarah told Stefaan to tap on her window after curfew—only for her mom to open it instead; and a legendary Block Island day trip when Stefaan, grounded but determined to impress, whisked Sarah onto a ferry at dawn. “My mom was not thrilled,” he laughs. “But it was worth it.”
They moved through life together naturally, never in a rush. College, New York City, and eventually nearly a decade of travel followed—years that reshaped both their relationship and their careers. Sarah, trained in textile
design and styling, and Stefaan, with a background in interactive media and advertising, slowly merged their creative worlds into photography and visual storytelling. What began as documenting their travels evolved into a full-time career and a devoted online following on their accounts, @sarahirenemurphy and @sdpnt. There, they share travels from Japan to Patagonia, Oman to Namibia, and everywhere in between. “We just captured what we thought was beautiful,” Sarah says. “Without overthinking it.”
After 18 years as partners, they decided—while painting their house one sweltering July day—to plan a tiny Block Island wedding just two months later, in September 2018. “Sometimes you just need less time and really talented friends,” Sarah says. They scoured flea markets for vintage glassware, built their own barely weatherproof tent, and hoped hurricane season would cooperate. It did.
When COVID halted the travel industry, Westport called them home. Today, with a four-year-old and a baby in their circa-1890 house near Compo Beach, life is beautifully chaotic and deeply rooted. Their next chapter? “Seeing the world through our children’s eyes,” Sarah says—and continuing to document the journey, wherever it leads.
ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY THE WESTPORT LIBRARY
This month, The Westport Library will host their 27th annual Crossword Puzzle Competition. While the event might not be as well-known in town as some of their tentpole events like VersoFest and BOOKED for the Evening, the contest is an annual gathering of some of the most diehard competitive puzzlers, who come together on one of their favorite days of the year. And it can be traced back to one fateful meeting between The Westport Library’s former director and Will Shortz.
For the uninitiated, Shortz is a revered figure in crossword-puzzling; since 1993 he has served as the crossword editor of The New York Times and has been featured as a recognizable face of crosswording in cameos on shows like How I Met Your Mother, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, and The Simpsons, among others. Back in 1998, the then-director of The Westport Library, Maxine Bleiweis, happened to meet Shortz in N.Y.C. while he was autographing crosswords at the “New York is Book Country” street fair. Bleiweis, newly arrived in her role and looking to bring a crossword puzzle contest to Westport after finding success with them at other libraries, took her moment with Shortz to ask if he might share an unpublished crossword of his to use at the event. “He surprised me by saying ‘Could I come and conduct the contest?’” Bleiweis recalls. “I immediately said yes.”
Shortz’s presence gave the Westport contest a major visibility boost. Other than the contest Shortz runs himself, the American Crossword Puzzle Tournament (which, coincidentally, is usually held in Stamford), ours is the only other one he attends. “I've been to almost every one since the second one,” Shortz tells Westport Lifestyle
“The wonderful thing about the Westport tournament is that I’m with the puzzle solvers, and get to hear their responses.”
— WILL SHORTZ
“After I went once, I was so impressed with the library, and liked the people, and it's just a good time.” At the contest, competitors complete three 15-by-15 crossword grids as quickly as possible, in a series of rounds. The final round, the playoffs, happens on stage, and there are also awards for “best penmanship” (in both ink and pencil), so less speedy attendees can still earn recognition. While judges score the rounds, Shortz plays word games with the crowd. “In my job as a crossword editor, I send my stuff out into the world, and I have to wait weeks or months to get a response from the audience,” Shortz says. “The wonderful thing about the Westport tournament is that I'm with the puzzle solvers, and get to hear their responses.”
For avid puzzlers, the contest has become a highlight of the year, bringing together a real community around a favorite hobby. And Shortz’s involvement has kept energy around the competition high. “The fact that he continues to want to come every year is fabulous,” says Jennifer Keller, the senior programming and events coordinator for The Westport Library. “He really makes it special.” Bleiweis agrees. “It became known as the ‘warm-up’ for [Shortz’s] big annual contest in Stamford,” she says. Westport, with its early-inthe-year timeslot, carved out a niche in the puzzling community. “There’s a whole world of competitive crossword puzzle tournaments,” explains Quiara Vasquez, the crossword editor at Slate and the current reigning champion of Westport’s contest. And while ours may not be one of the highest-profile ones, it has a reputation of being convivial and fun. Friendships have been forged wholly because of the contest. Stacy Stableford, a retired Westport school teacher, has been competing for more than 20 of the contest’s 27 years, and has a circle of friends she calls her “same time next year club” because they reunite each February at the contest. “We pick up as if a year has not gone by,” Stacy says. “We know each other's kids, and who's got [grand] babies, and it's just a lot of fun.” Stacy's husband, Lloyd Stableford, also a retired teacher, competed once, but found more enjoyment as a volunteer scorecard runner.
He loves the chance encounters with parents of his former students who are competing, he says, “and talking to Will [Shortz],” he says. “He talks to everybody, he’s very personable. It’s a lot of fun.” (Volunteers, by the way, are always needed!)
One of the unique aspects of our puzzle contest is that, despite its pedigree in Shortz, there’s room for casual competitors alongside top-ranked ones. “I’m not doing [crosswords] to be an expert or to be fast,” says Stacy (who has won Best Handwriting). “I savor words.” But you’ll also find some of the quickest puzzlers in the country, most likely up on stage in the Trefz Forum during the final round. Vasquez has finished a 15-by-15 grid in as little as 90 seconds. Her top tips for speed? “Look at clues as quickly as you can,” she says. When a puzzle has a series of clues that lead to an overarching theme or a sort of punchline, she says, “I try to spoil that for myself as quickly as possible. And the real trick you have to get good at is reading the clues while you’re writing in entries.”(She also learned early on in her competing days that a lowercase “e” is faster to write than an uppercase one. The more you know!)
Keller says they anticipate nearly 200 people will attend the contest this year (spectators are allowed, but only for the final round). “There is a camaraderie among the people who come to us,” she says. There’s just something about the Westport contest. “I am so impressed with the Westport Library,” Shortz agrees. “I like libraries in general, but the Westport one is special. And I think Westport has an extraordinary community as well.” So if you’re looking for something different to do this month with a great crowd—as Shortz puts it, “crossword people tend to be smart, interesting, funny, well-rounded people”—consider joining for the finals. “I just love solving crosswords,” says Vasquez. “There’s something auteurist about it. It’s a very real chance to glimpse into another person’s mind.”
The Crossword Puzzle Contest is on February 7 from 1:00 pm - 4:30 pm at the Westport Library. For registration and more information, visit westportlibrary.org
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ARTICLE BY ROBIN SELDEN
Love shows up in many forms, but my favorite has always been the delicious kind. In our kitchens at Marcia Selden Catering, food is truly our love language, and every delicious bite that we craft is made with love and lots of passion! It’s how we celebrate, flirt, comfort, surprise, delight, and create unforgettable memories. So, when Westport Lifestyle asked me to share ideas for their "Love Local" issue, my mind instantly went to all the beautiful, cheeky, intimate, and wildly fun ways food can set the mood this February.
Whether you are hosting a candlelit Valentine's dinner, a spirited Galentine's cocktail party, or a blowout celebration, a little creativity goes a long way. Every plate can become part of the story, every sip can set the mood, and every detail will feel like a kiss.
Let’s start with a visual spark, as we all eat with our eyes long before we even pick up a fork. Heart-shaped anything will always work its magic, but the real secret is to think about presentation as part of your decor. One of my favorite moves is serving hors d’oeuvres inside heart-shaped chocolate boxes. Remove the chocolates and tuck in tiny savory bites where bonbons once sat. People absolutely light up when they see them coming, as it’s unexpected and fun.
Even the simplest ideas can become special. A skewer of fresh fruit becomes instantly charming when the fruit is cut into little hearts, or when the picks used have a tiny heart topper. A French macaron tree adds height and whimsy to a table and becomes an irresistible treat for dessert lovers. A heart shaped tray or one that literally says “love” creates a joyful serving moment before anyone even takes a bite.
Tabletop design also set the tone. Layer in soft candlelight, a touch of red or blush, a lip-shaped chocolate at each seat, or a miniature amuse bouche perched on a plate. Present a shimmering golden egg filled with truffled mashed potatoes and caviar…can you say yum? Beauty invites anticipation. Anticipation creates excitement. And excitement is where the romance begins!
Shape your menu with intention. Oysters, figs, chocolate, berries, truffles, champagne, and anything with sparkle or gold always makes hearts flutter. For one unforgettable event, we created a golden Adam-and-Eve duo of waiters, complete with grape leaf attire and shimmering wreaths, who passed figs to guests as they arrived. We complemented the moment with warm fig flatbreads that people devoured. Trust me when I tell you that every single guest that attended that soirée will never forget that moment—and the golden duo made sure of it!
Entree plates can feel like love letters all on their own. Panko-herb-crusted salmon with sweet pea risotto. Miso glazed sea bass, a gorgeous green salad with crunchy snap peas and fresh mint. Strawberry pavlovas with clouds of cream. Every color and texture becomes part of the experience. Small service touches also add a bit of theater. Pour a lobster bisque or potato leek soup table-side over a Boursin panna cotta so it blooms as the soup warms it. These special surprises will always heighten your guest’s experience.
Cocktails that flirt back are always a must! Craft a signature cocktail that sets the mood the moment it is handed to a guest. A bourbon blackberry smash. A rosy gin spritz. A sparkling pour with a blush hue and a tiny rose petal floating on top. Name it something cheeky like a “Blush Kiss” or “Kiss Me Rose” and pair it with a cute napkin that says "kiss" or "sip." Even better, close the night with towers of espresso martinis so the final moment feels as celebratory as the first. What coffee lover wouldn’t want that, rather than a cup of coffee?
Desserts that steal the love-themed show must include chocolate, as it is the universal Valentine’s love language. In fact, nearly 36 million boxes of chocolate are sold in the U.S. for Valentine's Day, so it’s clear that chocolate needs to make its
way onto your menu! We make desserts personal with heart-shaped French macarons, adorable lip-shaped chocolates tied to our MSC branding, tiny hand-rolled chocolate truffles, or even our amazing chocolate ribbon dessert served with a trio of homemade gelato. One of my favorites (although not chocolate) is our honey lemon panna cotta with berry glass and mango gelée, which looks almost too beautiful to eat, especially when finished with edible flowers.
Create a room that tells a story as design can transform an ordinary dinner into something cinematic. Imagine a Garden of Eden-inspired table, set beneath handcrafted trees created by your florist. Tables adorned with charcuterie, cheeses, dips, and warm breads for guests to pass while settling in with a nice glass of wine. These early touches create conversation and awaken the appetite before the first course even arrives. They also create beautiful and edible décor for your tabletop.
Late at night, send guests off with a smile. We love passing egg sandwiches from our hawker trays. We bring guaranteed smiles to their faces when they read “Eggs-It Sandwiches” labeled on the fronts of the trays. Just another way to bring joy through deliciousness to our guests with a playful nod to an exit strategy that makes everyone laugh on their way out the door with a delicious bite in hand.
Love is a feeling, but it is also a vibe. It is color, sparkle and aroma, and it should be full of playfulness. It is the thrill that comes from doing something unexpected. It is the joy of creating something beautiful for the people you adore. Every February table has a love story waiting to be written. I hope this inspires you to craft one that feels intimate, playful, gorgeous, and straight from the heart as your guests are guaranteed to feel the love if you go that extra mile.
Whether you are buying or selling a home in the Westport area, it’s important to have the guidance of a trusted team with a proven track record and extensive knowledge of community. Danna & Jen have lived in Westport for over 20 years and sold over 200 homes. They will guide you through the process with their signature hand holding service!
We can’t wait to work with you!
- Danna & Jen
INTRODUCING DANNA AND JEN’S “LOVES”, ChaCha and Bodhi.
FOR VALENTINE’S DAY, WE WOULD LIKE TO ENCOURAGE YOU SKIP THE BOX OF CHOCOLATES, AND CONSIDER SUPPORTING A LOCAL ANIMAL CHARITY, ADOPTING OR FOSTERING A NEW FURRY FRIEND.
Everything you need to know to shop for quality, giftable pieces this year.
With Valentine’s Day around the corner, it’s jewelry shopping season. If you’re looking to invest in a timeless, lasting piece of fine jewelry for someone in your life, Westport Lifestyle spoke to two of the most knowledgeable people in the business: Nikita Green, the estate and e-commerce specialist at Lux Bond & Green, and Michael Halpy, owner of LENOX Jewelers in Fairfield. Here are their top tips for purchasing something perfect.
When it comes to gems, brights are back. “We anticipate 2026 to be the year of colored stones,” says Michael Halpy, owner of LENOX Jewelers in Fairfield. Sapphires, tanzanite, rubies, amethysts, citrines, emeralds, and tourmaline are all rising in popularity, as are tinted diamonds. “There is growing enthusiasm for fancy-colored diamonds and warmer diamond hues: light yellows, browns, and soft pinks are being considered in engagement rings,” explains Nikita Green, the estate and e-commerce specialist at Lux Bond & Green.
Unless you’re sure your gift recipient will love a brightly-hued stone, the experts recommend sticking to traditional styles for a Valentine’s gift. “You can never go wrong with staple pieces such as diamond studs, tennis bracelets, or necklaces or eternity bands,” says Michael. Of course, simple doesn’t have to mean uninteresting. “Items with subtle customization, such as initials, birthstones, or a favorite color offer a thoughtful touch without risking concerns related to sizing or style,” says Nikita. “It also helps to consider how your loved one spends their day. Someone with an active routine may appreciate durable materials such as gold or platinum and secure settings like bezels. Knowing what they already wear is the best way to choose a piece aligned with their taste.”
Fine jewelry is often passed down through generations, and it can be helpful to think of a piece’s future lineage when gifting something intended to last. “We are seeing a resurgence of clean, minimalist designs,” says Michael. “These classics transition seamlessly across decades as they don’t rely heavily on trend-driven detailing.” Heirloom-style detailing, however, is a great investment.
“Fine jewelry is often passed down through generations, so gift something intended to last.”
“Vintage-inspired elements like antique cuts, milgrain details, and heritage motifs reimagined in updated scales and refined finishes honor tradition without appearing dated,” says Nikita. “Gold continues to be the preferred metal, yet mixed-metal designs adapt easily to shifting personal styles, whether worn alone or combined in new ways over time, which helps them remain relevant and cherished for years to come.” And of course, the best way to extend the life of your jewelry is to take good care of it. “We recommend bringing items in [to our store] periodically to be cleaned and checked for wear and tear,” says Michael.
Gifting jewelry to the men in your life may not be the obvious choice, but it can be a great one. “Among our male customers, personal expression is continuing to be a driving force,” says Nikita. At Lux Bond & Green, layered chains— especially in different lengths and textures—are popular, as well as signet and stacking rings. At LENOX Jewelers, Michael says their male customers gravitate towards three categories: luxury timepieces, chain link necklaces, and layered bracelet stacks. “These pieces offer an elevated feel and are easy to wear every day,” he says. For more unique options, Nikita loves pearls from brands like Paspaley and statement pieces from King Baby. No matter who you’re shopping for this year, the experienced and knowledgeable teams at Lux Bond & Green and LENOX Jewelers can help you find something special and unforgettable.
Lux Bond & Green is located at 136 Main St. in Westport, and online at lbgreen.com . LENOX Jewelers is located at 2500 Black Rock Turnpike in Fairfield, and lenox-jewelers.com
VICE PRESIDENT LUXURY DIVISION
Serious buyers and sellers don’t wait for spring headlines. They prepare early and work with an agent who understands timing, value, and opportunity. Even during the holidays, my listing at 112 Harvest Commons, Westport received an accepted offer over asking in just three days proof that preparation, pricing strategy, and deep market knowledge deliver results in any season. Because...
ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY
The brick building at 465 Riverside Ave. is home to what may be one of Westport’s most under-celebrated organizations: the Joseph J. Clinton Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 399. The organization, named for veteran Private Joseph J. Clinton, who was killed in France during World War I, provides countless services to local veterans, including free monthly luncheons, jazz nights with Grammy-nominated musicians, and held monthly Red Cross Blood Drives for past 66 straight months. “We support all veterans,” explains Phil Delgado, VFW Post 399’s Quartermaster and a retired Lieutenant Commander with the U.S. Navy. The VFW serves nearly 300 members, as Fairfield County has the third-largest concentration of veterans in the state.
Their programming is designed to help local vets live better lives. “At the luncheon, I invite different veterans service officers through the VA and come and talk to our vets about things like how to register in the VA system, how to file for disability, information about veteran cemeteries here in Connecticut, those types of thing,” says Phil.
As we head into 2026, the VFW is able to continue their programming thanks to support from the Westport Woman’s Club, who bestowed their prestigious Ruegg Grant on the VFW at the end of last year. The grant gives $10,000 in “one-time funding to support a high-profile project that creates lasting impact in our community.” “Thanks to the help of the Woman’s Club, we’re going to be able to continue our veterans benefit luncheons,” says Phil. “I never dreamed so many people would come [to these lunches]. It’s helping out a lot of folks.”
While the grant is a big help, the organization would love support from fellow members of the Westport community. “We’re here for all veterans, and we want to be a resource,” says Phil. “We’ve been around for 105 years, and we plan to be around for 100 more.”
For more information or to make a donation, visit vfw399ct.org
Some vacations ease you into relaxation. Others sweep you up immediately. Four Seasons Resort Nevis is firmly the latter.
We escaped to the resort Thanksgiving week, with a direct flight from JFK to St. Kitts, followed by what may be one of the most seamless (and enjoyable) hotel transfers we have ever experienced. From the moment we landed, Four Seasons handled everything. In true White Lotus fashion, we were whisked to the resort’s private ferry, welcomed with a drink in hand, and set off across the water toward Nevis. The ferry ride itself was short, scenic, and celebratory: about ten minutes of bright blue water, gentle breezes, and the first glimpse of Nevis’s lush green mountains rising in the distance.
The Four Seasons Resort Nevis was a family escape that felt like being in a movie.
ARTICLE BY MARISA MACLEAN
As we approached the dock, staff were waiting and waving, setting the tone for the entire stay. The sky was impossibly blue, the air warm and calm, and it felt instantly clear that this was going to be one of those trips we would talk about long after returning home.
After a brief tour of the property, we wasted no time slipping into vacation mode. A little pool time, a walk through the resort’s lush pathways, and then straight to dinner at Mango, one of the resort’s signature open-air restaurants set right along the water.
Dinner at Mango felt like a front-row seat to the Caribbean. From our table, we watched the waves roll in and spotted barracuda swimming below, with the sound of the ocean crashing nearby. It was one of those meals where the setting becomes as memorable as the food, and where you realize you have officially arrived.
The next morning set a pattern that would repeat throughout the week: we woke up to rainbows. Every single morning. From our room, we could walk directly out onto the beach, coffee in hand, kids racing ahead toward the water, with rainbows arching over the ocean and the mountains beyond. It felt almost unreal.
That day was devoted to everything Four Seasons Nevis does so well. We split our time between the beach and the pool, snorkeled in clear water filled with colorful fish, built sandcastles, and took out a Hobie Cat sailboat. Out on the water, we spotted schools of fish and sea turtles gliding beneath us. Close to shore, there was still plenty to see with a snorkel mask on. The beach was calm, expansive, and perfectly suited for families. It was relaxed and never felt crowded.
One of the unexpected highlights of the week came the following day, with the resort’s monkey tour. Nevis is famous for its green vervet monkeys, and exploring the property by golf cart in search of them turned into a full-blown family adventure.
My husband and son took one cart, while my daughter and I took another. We spotted monkeys everywhere— in trees, along the golf course, darting across paths. There were so many that we quickly lost count. Somewhere along the way, the tour turned into a race back to the meeting point. It was the kind of spontaneous fun that becomes a core family memory.
The rest of the day was spent exactly where we wanted to be: by the pool, relaxing, regrouping, and soaking it all in.
Spending Thanksgiving Day at Four Seasons Nevis was something special. The resort fully embraced the holiday, offering what was hands down the most impressive
Thanksgiving spread we have ever seen. Traditional favorites were beautifully executed, alongside Caribbean-inspired dishes that made the meal feel both festive and rooted in place.
After dinner, live music filled the evening—a nightly staple at the resort—and before we knew it, we were dancing.
By Friday, we had settled into the easy rhythm of the island. We enjoyed another full day at the beach and pool, interrupted only briefly by a light rain shower that lasted no more than fifteen minutes. As if on cue, the rain cleared, and more rainbows appeared, stretching across the sky and reflecting off the water.
One of the standout moments of our stay was dining with celebrity chef Rocco DiSpirito, who was in residence at Four Seasons Nevis during Thanksgiving week. The tasting menu was exceptional, and the evening felt intimate, lively, and distinctly “Four Seasons:” it was elevated, but warm and welcoming. It was also a perfect example of what makes this resort so dynamic. While every stay is different, there are always special moments happening here: visiting chefs, seasonal programming, holiday celebrations, and unique experiences that change throughout the year.
Four Seasons Resort Nevis delivered on the fantasy of a Caribbean escape, while quietly excelling at the details that matter most, especially for families. The arrival is effortless, the setting is breathtaking, and the days unfold naturally: beach mornings, pool afternoons, exceptional dining, live music at night, and those small, unexpected moments—monkeys, ocean wildlife, rainbows—that make the trip feel truly special.
For more information, visit fourseasons.com/nevis
ARTICLE BY LEANN PARKER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Create timeless keepsakes for those you love with this easy DIY Valentine Stationary. There is something special and reminiscent of our earlier years of creating homemade valentines for those special in our lives. While stores are filled with Valentine candy, cards and gifts, the thoughtfulness and time put into to a handmade card holds a different meaning. Words are the things we treasure most, so let those you care about most know how you treasure them this Valentine’s Day.
• Kitchen Knife
• Red or Russet Potato (for heart)
• Romaine Lettuce (for rose)
• Acrylic Paint
• Paint Brush
• Blank Envelopes
• Blank Cards
• Heart Template (SilvertoothHome.com/blog/DIY-stationery)
• Hand Lettering Template (SilvertoothHome.com/blog/DIY-stationery)
• Light Box
1. Cut the potato in half. Using a small knife, carefully carve a heart shape onto the flat side of the potato. Carve freestyle or use the free template under “DIY Stationery” on the blog at silvertoothhome.com/ blog/diy-stationery. Even when using the template, each carving will come out as unique art like the ones you see here.
2. With a paint brush, apply paint to the heart shape on the potato.
3. Stamp the potato heart onto blank stationery.
4. Set aside until completely dry.
1. Cut the end off of romaine lettuce. Set leaves aside and use the stem.
2. Using a paintbrush, apply paint to the lettuce stem.
3. Stamp the lettuce “rose” onto blank stationery.
4. Set aside until completely dry.
Once your stationery is completely dry it is time to add beautiful Valentine’s Day lettering. If you have beautiful handwriting then draw free hand. If you’re not as confident use a light box and my hand lettering template (found on the blog at SilvertoothHome.com/blog/DIYstationery) to transfer lettering onto the stationery. To do this, first lay the hand lettering template on a light box with the stationery on top. Then trace the hand lettering onto the stationery with a pen or marker of choice.
WINTER OLYMPICS GOT YOU ITCHING TO COMPETE? PLAY AT ONE OF THESE COLD-WEATHER-FRIENDLY SPOTS.
1. The Clubhouse, 1620 Post Road E.
The golf simulators aren't the only way to play at The Clubhouse: their multisport option offers 30 other activities, including soccer and basketball. Recommended for ages 14 and up. theclubhousewestport.com
2. Pickleball America, 140 Atlantic St., Stamford
Play one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S. on one of the largest indoor courts in the country. pickleballamerica.us
4. Westport Weston Family YMCA, 14 Allen Raymond Ln.
There is a waitlist to join, but membership at the Westport Weston Family YMCA offers access to a host of indoor sports, including basketball, golf, pickleball, volleyball, and swimming. westporty.org
3. Rock Climb Fairfield, 85 Mill Plain Rd., Bldg. T, Fairfield
Climbers of all ages will find something to scale at this rock climbing facility, which offers day passes, classes, youth programs, and more. rockclimbfairfield.com
5. Westport PAL Rink at Longshore, 260 Compo Rd. South
No, it's not indoors, but ice skating at the WPAL rink is a staple of the winter season, and one you must do once! wpalrink.com
Missing teeth affect more than your appearance—they can impact your comfort, confidence, and overall health. Dental implants offer a long-lasting, natural-looking solution that restores function while preserving bone and facial structure. Designed to look and feel like real teeth, implants allow you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
Rediscover your smile—schedule a dental implant consultation today with Dr. Simon Bangiyev, Board Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
FEBRUARY 2026
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
FEBRUARY 1ST
Broadway Scores at the Playhouse: Big Band Broadway
Westport Country Playhouse, 25 Powers Ct. | 2:00 PM
Tony-Award winner Debbie Gravitte leads a thrilling experience, with Broadway’s greatest hits meeting the bold brass and swinging rhythm of the Big Band era. From classic showtunes to modern favorites, Big Band Broadway is a dazzling revue of beloved songs delivered with sassy style and powerhouse vocals. Tickets, from $45, at westportplayhouse.org
FEBRUARY 7TH
The Westport Library, 20 Jesup Rd. 1:00 PM
Join New York Times Crossword Puzzle editor Will Shortz for the 27th annual Crossword Puzzle Contest. Spectators are welcome for the final round, where you can watch puzzlers and word-play competitions. For more info, check out page TK or visit westportlibrary.org
FEBRUARY 13TH
Earthplace, 10 Woodside Ln. | 6:00 PM
Let Earthplace take the kids for a night—drop them off for an exciting evening focused on snow. They'll learn how and why it snows, make their own snow, build a snowman, and make ice sculptures. A light snack will be provided, and children are welcome to bring their own (nut-free) food. Pickup at 9 p.m. From $50, register at earthplace.org
Our award-winning team specializes in serving high- income and high-net-worth clients in Fairfield County and beyond.
Our comprehensive approach coordinates world-class wealth management with sophisticated tax-strategies and long-term financia l planning solutions.
And, by learning what matters most to you before we advise, we can t ailor a personalized plan that creates the financial peace- of-mind you deserve.
ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY
Last March, floral studio STEMS + CO expanded their business into a new retail shop in Georgetown. This year marks their first Valentine’s Day since the expansion, and it’s the perfect time to pick up a gorgeous, detailed, colorful arrangement from the shop. “Our Valentine’s designs reflect our philosophy: natural, organic, refined, and full of texture and movement,” says founder and floral designer Lauryn Soden, who started the local business a decade ago after more than 10 years in marketing and public relations in N.Y.C. Her designs feature “seasonal and novelty blooms:” think “ruffled garden roses, delicate sweet peas, textural foliage, and airy ranunculus (my personal favorite!).” No grocery store flowers here: these are thoughtful, artful arrangements that will make any recipient feel special and loved.
STEMS + CO Valentine’s arrangements range from $65-$185. For guaranteed pickup or delivery on February 13 or 14, place orders by February 9. 2 Main St., Unit B, Georgetown. To place an order call 203-286-3364 or visit stemsandco.com
