Westport, CT May 2026

KER RI KEN NEY-SILVER:

FRO M STAPLES HIG H TO 'THE FOUR SEASONS'

LIFE + CULTURE

THE 2026 WOMEN OF WESTPORT: MEET THE HONOREES

Home Custom Design. Build. Remodel.

A Seamless Path From Concept to Completion

Anatolia Interiors brings design, construction, and material selection together under one process, guided by a licensed general contractor with 40+ years of experience. From custom kitchen cabinetry + appliances and hardwood flooring to closet systems, tile and stone installation, building, home additions, and full remodels, every detail is handled by one team, resulting in a cohesive, intentional space built to last.

We first met Sam and Susanne when we went to his "Showroom looking for ideas for 3 bathroom renovations including our master bath. After talking to him, we decided to hire him to be the contractor and designer for the jobs. He helped us through the entire process and we couldn't be more thrilled with the results. He is very easy to work with and all his subcontractors were very professional, clean, and punctual. We are now in the process of starting our kitchen renovation and wouldn't trust anyone else with the job!"- Westport, CT

O pen by appointment only . Call to schedule. Reach out today for a free consultation. 1862 POST ROAD EAST, WESTPORT, CT | 203.917.1767 | AnatoliaInteriors.com

Cheers to the Women

There is something special about the women who shape a community. The ones who lead, create, support, and show up in ways both big and small.

This month, we’re proud to share our annual Women’s Issue, a celebration of the incredible women of Westport. From business leaders and creatives to philanthropists and quiet forces behind the scenes, this issue reflects the strength, talent, and generosity that define our town. Each year, our community nominates women who inspire them, and it’s always an honor to share their stories.

We’re especially excited to feature Kerri Kenney-Silver on our cover as she returns for the new season of The Four Seasons. What makes it even more special is that her story began right here in Westport.

Behind every issue of Westport Lifestyle is a dedicated team, largely women, who bring these pages to life each month. Their creativity, care, and attention to detail are what make this publication what it is, and this issue is a reflection of that.

Inside, you’ll find inspiration for the season ahead. Entertaining ideas from Marcia Selden Catering & Events arrive just in time for Mother’s Day. Beauty is covered with thoughtful recommendations from industry pros Carly Cardellino and Lauren Cosenza, alongside a meaningful conversation around perimenopause with expert insight.

We also highlight the pieces of everyday lifestyle that make this community feel so personal, from Mahjong must-haves to the story of Becky Hillyard and her evolution from side hustle to style empire.

We take a moment to slow down at The Chase in Weston, a space designed to feel like home, and we’re proud to support the Gather Round the Table initiative benefiting Homes with Hope as this year’s exclusive media sponsor.

At its core, this issue is about connection and about recognizing the people who make this community what it is.

To the women of Westport, this one is for you.

MARISA MACLEAN, PUBLISHER @WESTPORTLIFESTYLE

May 2026

PUBLISHER

Marisa MacLean | marisa.maclean@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Sara Gaynes Levy | sara.gayneslevy@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Robin Selden, Lauren Cosenza, Carly Cardellini, Ali Schwartz Balbes, Zac Mathias

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Bevy Rutledge, Jessica Chou

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

with PLASMA PEN

by LOUISE WALSH INTERNATIONAL

Plasma pen delivers a brighter, more contoured youthful appearance to the skin. The results of the treatment are virtually immediate and incredibly long lasting without the need for fillers or surgical correction. Plasma pen technology is revolutionizing what is possible in skin revitalization, tone and texture. Dr. Gould strives to bring her clients the latest innovation and was the first physician in Connecticut to bring Plasma Pen to her practice.

DR GOULD'S PLASMA PEN BEFORE & AFTER

inside the issue

EVERYONE KNOWS A REALTOR… SO HOW DO YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT ONE?

“ ”After meeting with several real estate agents about selling our home, I was blown away by meeting Danna and Jen… Their professionalism was matched with their genuine good-nature that immediately put me at ease. They made excellent recommendations, made showings as efficient and painless as possible, recognizing that with two kids and a dog, it was challenging. Ultimately, their pricing strategy resulted in multiple offers over asking which were skillfully discussed and brought to contract, and they were always available, getting back to us immediately. They are an amazing team and we could not have been happier with the terrific job they did selling our home. Could not recommend more highly!!

-Lisa & Charles

WE ARE VERY PROUD TO BE A PART OF THE HIGGINS GROUP, Reader’s Choice 2025 Best Real Estate Agency!

30 Elm Street Bedford Square, Westport CT 06880 dannarogersandjenkass.com

Danna Rogers (917) 282-6292 • dannakrogers@gmail.com

Jen Kass (203) 368-8032 • jenkass32@gmail.com

CT

A life , Guided by thoughtful wealth management. well lived

You have built a remarkable life shaped by vision, perseverance, and thoughtful decisions. Your wealth should be guided with that same intention.

city scene

Life insurance helps protect what matters mostyour family’s home, your children’s education, and the life you’ve built together.

I’ll help you understand your options so you can make confident decisions.

It may be more affordable than you think. Let’s talk now - rates increase with age, and tomorrow’s health isn’t guaranteed.

Let’s plan your best legacy.

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

Audra McDonald Returns to the Playhouse

Back for the first time since 2024, Emmy-, Grammy-, and six-time-Tony Award winner Audra McDonald graces the stage of the Westport Country Playhouse on May 19 for "An Evening with Audra McDonald." The 90-minute show will feature Andy Einhorn on piano. Tickets, from $150, at westportplayhouse.org

Greens Farms Garden Club Hosts Their Annual Plants Sale

The Greens Farms Garden Club invites the community to its annual plant sale on Saturday, May 16th, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Sherman Green in Fairfield. The sale will feature a wide selection of locally grown perennials, annuals, and speciality tables.  Proceeds from the sale support the club’s mission to advance horticultural skills, civic development, and environmental awareness, funding key local initiatives. For more information, visit greensfarmsgardenclub.org

Women Leading the Way to Wellness

On May 7, The American Cancer Society presents the Women Leading the Way to Wellness Luncheon at the Hyatt Regency in Greenwich. The event focuses on the prevention and early detection of cancer, and how women’s health plays a critical role in this area. Speakers include novelist Zakiya Dalila Harris, author Wally Lamb, and actor Dorothy Lyman, and will be moderated by Westport's own Alisyn Camerota. For tickets and more information, visit womenandwellness.acsgala.org

by Laura St. James Photography

Ben Frimmer Honored at Schoke JFS Gala

On May 17, Ben Frimmer, a Tonynominated producer, theatre educator, and EMS leader who has served Westport EMS since 1985 and currently acts as Deputy Chief of Weston Volunteer EMS, will be honored with the Community Service Award at the Schoke JFS Gala. Ben is also on the board of Westport Country Playhouse, where he is co-chair of the Development Committee. Ben's wife, Heather Frimmer, is a 2026 Woman of Westport. For more, visit ctjfs.org

Dan Starbuck Pelletier, owner of Weston's DIG, is now the co-author Neighborhood Knights, a book that features an epic story of a kid that saves his town with chess. The book also includes a how-to-play guide and a chessboard on the back, and was illustrated by Dan's mom, Trish. To purchase, visit amazon.com

The Women of Westport Lifestyle

MEET THE CONTRIBUTING WOMEN (AND MAN!) WHO MAKE EACH ISSUE COME TO LIFE.

Marisa MacLean, owner and publisher

Inspired by the people, local business owners, and sense of connection that define Westport and Weston, Marisa launched Westport Lifestyle in 2018 to celebrate and support the community while helping it continue to grow.

After a career in advertising and marketing, representing some of the most iconic out-ofhome billboard placements in Times Square and Las Vegas, she now uses that experience to spotlight businesses, nonprofits, and community leaders, building a publication that has become a trusted voice across the region.

She lives in Weston with her husband, two children, and their new puppy.

Yael L. Maxwell, contributing writer

Sara Gaynes Levy, editor

Sara has been the editor of Westport Lifestyle since December 2023 and truly considers this a dream job. Bringing together these amazing stories and storytellers—all part of this incredibly vibrant community!—is a joy each month. In addition to Westport Lifestyle, her work has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, The Harvard Business Review, The Guardian, PEOPLE, Vogue, New York Magazine, Glamour, and many more.

Sophia

Andersen, social media

manager

A Weston native, Sophia began writing for Westport Lifestyle in 2018 (here since the first issue!) before stepping into the role of Social Media Manager in 2023. She has a blast bringing the people, places, and moments of Westport/Weston to life across the magazine’s social media pages.

Yael is a staff journalist for TCTMD.com, where she covers cardiovascular news and hosts the Hearts & Minds podcast, but she loves exploring local gems and inspirational neighbors through her work with Westport Lifestyle. Yael serves on the Board of Trustees for the CT/RI chapter of the National MS Society and has a side gig as a wedding officiant!

Lauren Brown West-Rosenthal, contributing writer

Lauren is a multi-platform storyteller with over two decades of experience spanning TV, digital, print, books, podcasts, and radio. She has worked as a TV writer/producer for networks like Bravo, Peacock, CBS, and BET. Her editorial bylines include The Cut, Parents, Slate, and Glamour She currently explores the Y2K teen-magazine era, where her career began, through her Substack, The Teen Mag Time Machine: theteenmagtimemachine.substack.com

Bevy Rutledge, photographer

Bevy partners with brands to develop social content that is cohesive, authentic, and aligned, while still designed to connect and perform. With a background in photography and videography, she understands the full production process, but also knows that sometimes the most powerful content starts with a strong hook and an iPhone. For  Westport Lifestyle,  Bevy has shot covers, parties, and this month's Women of Westport package.

Ali Schwartz Balbes, contributing writer

Ali grew up in West Hartford, and after spending many years living in N.Y.C., L.A., and Miami, settled down in Weston last March with her husband Jake and goldendoodle Rory. By day, Ali is a Creative Producer at YouTube. She and Jake are expecting their first child around the release of this issue!

John Videler,

photographer

John is a Connecticut-based photographer specializing in events, portraits, and community storytelling. His work captures genuine moments with a candid, documentary style and has been featured in publications and private collections throughout the region.

Elizabeth

Ginns Britten, contributing writer

Liz has been writing and editing for national magazines and global book publishers for 20-plus years. For Westport Lifestyle, she focuses on profile pieces about the people and stories that make this community unique. Originally from Boston, Liz has been a Westport resident for 12 years, and lives here with her husband, their 13-year-old twins, and their dog.

Anna Barnes, contributing writer

Anna is a luxury PR pro, journalist, and the voice behind Bliss & Bellinis, where she shares her passion for travel, unique experiences, and curating a life filled with style and adventure. Originally from Ohio, she’s happily called Fairfield County home for the past decade. When she’s not crafting stories for brands or on deadline, she’s usually on a plane—and always ready for a Bellini.

Jen

Berniker,

contributing writer

Through her platform Designport (@ my_designport), Jen spotlights the designers, artists, and creative businesses shaping homes throughout Fairfield County. A Westport resident, contributing writer, and mother of two, she also serves on the BMS PTA board and the Connecticut regional board of Experience Camps.

SUNSHINE

DAILY SERVED

ARTICLE BY ROBIN SELDEN

After months of early sunsets, heavy coats, and comfort foods that warm us from the inside out, spring has finally arrived like a breath of fresh air. The sun is still shining at five o’clock. The snow has melted away. And just like that, we remember how good it feels to step outside, gather around a table, and celebrate the simple joy of being together again (and not freezing anymore).

Spring entertaining does not need to be complicated. A sunny afternoon, a colorful tabletop, and a menu filled with fresh, vibrant flavors is often all it takes. Think classic coastal favorites that feel just right this time of year. A yummy lobster roll, bowls of creamy corn chowder or New England clam chowder that nod to our seaside traditions. We love reimagining classics in fun and unexpected ways. A lobster roll becomes a miniature passed hors d’oeuvres. Jicama shrimp tacos offer a crisp and refreshing option that even your gluten-free guests will be super excited about. Truffled tater tots served in colorful paper cones disappear almost instantly. And mini corn dogs are guaranteed to be a fan favorite that runs out every single time.

At Marcia Selden Catering, the change of seasons is one of our favorite sources of inspiration. Spring and early summer along the Connecticut shoreline bring an unmistakable shift in flavor and color. The food becomes brighter. The tables get more playful. And the energy around the table feels lighter and happier. No surprise, as there is real science behind that feeling. Sunshine boosts endorphins. Fresh air lifts our mood. Pair that with crisp vegetables, vibrant salads, and seafood pulled straight from our East Coast waters, and you have the perfect recipe for happiness. Food simply tastes better when the sun is shining and you are sharing it with people you love!

Of course, every great gathering also needs a few irresistible savory snacks. Freshly-sliced crispy potato chips served warm are simple, nostalgic, super delicious, and surprisingly addictive.

Then there is the sweet side of spring. Berry cobblers baked in tiny cast-iron skillets and topped with homemade vanilla bean ice cream capture the sweetness of the season. White chocolate-dipped gooseberries add a playful and unexpected pop of flavor. And then there are the cookies. Few things can lure a crowd quite like the smell of freshly-baked cookies wafting out of the oven. Even when guests insist they are full, somehow there is always room in the dessert belly. One bite of my warm salted dark chocolate cookies and the room suddenly finds a second wind. Much like a bowl of our homemade potato chips, you simply cannot eat just one of those cookies!

Just as important as the food is the feeling you create around it. Spring tablescapes should be as bright and joyful as the season itself. Think colorful linens, fresh flowers, and platters overflowing with vibrant dishes. After months of cozy winter meals, these lively colors and fresh flavors bring instant smiles to the table.

Most importantly, do not stress about entertaining. Spring gatherings are meant to feel relaxed and spontaneous. Let the sunshine do the work. Open the doors, bring the food outside, pour a bright seasonal cocktail, and let the season set the tone. Because after a long winter, there is nothing better than sunshine on your face, fresh air in your lungs, and delicious food shared with the people who make life sweeter.

And here in Fairfield County, that is exactly what spring tastes like. Simply put, food tastes better when the sun is shining. Cheers to delicious moments!

Connecticut Breast Imaging offers the full spectrum of imaging techniques for detecting and diagnosing breast cancer, using the most advanced technology and highly skilled interpretation by a dedicated breast imaging radiologist. Our services include 3D Mammography, Breast Ultrasound, and Breast Biopsy.

THE WOMEN OF WESTPORT

MEET THE 2026 CLASS.

It is my great joy to present  Westport Lifestyle 's annual Women of Westport list: a roundup of some of the most inspiring, influential, creative, community-driven women in Westport, Weston, and Wilton. These 12 women represent the true range of talent we have here, and I hope you have as much fun—and learn as much!—getting to know them as I did. Congratulations to these impressive women. I can't wait to see who joins their ranks in 2027! -Sara Gaynes Levy, editor

“After moving back, I realized there were so many accomplished women here, yet fewer intentional spaces for meaningful connection.”

Melissa Conner

PARTNER AT JENNIFER BETT COMMUNICATIONS, CO-FOUNDER OF AFTER HOURS CAPITAL, BRAND AMBASSADOR, THE WIE SUITE

Photo by Anna-Grace

Bolen.

A connector at heart: “In college, I landed an internship at a wonderful boutique PR agency, and it completely changed my trajectory. That experience is where I fell in love with communications. As my career has evolved, what continues to draw me in is storytelling and relationships. At my core, I believe that success expands when it’s shared. Throughout my career, so many women opened doors for me, made meaningful introductions, or offered guidance at pivotal moments, and that generosity left a lasting impression. Connecting people feels very natural to me because I’m endlessly curious about what others are building and how they might support one another. Community has always been a throughline in my personal and professional life.”

Championing Fairfield County: “I was born and raised in Connecticut, but I never imagined I’d move back. The pandemic brought me home, and it’s been the best surprise. Weston is such a special place. After moving back, I realized there were so many accomplished women here, yet fewer intentional spaces for meaningful connection. It felt like the perfect moment to build a community that reflects that. Bringing The WIE Suite to Connecticut was about creating the kind of network I wished existed when I first returned—one that fosters collaboration over competition and cultivates real relationships, not just networking moments.”

Support from all sides:  “Public relations is often fast-paced and behind the scenes, but stepping back, you realize you’ve helped shape narratives and support people during pivotal chapters of their journeys. That’s incredibly fulfilling.  When women show up for each other, incredible things happen.”

CONTINUED >

“Being able to build a creative career while being present for my family and the life my fiancé and I are building together is, to me, the greatest marker of success.”

Ashley Holt

CAKE ARTIST, CULINARY PRODUCER, AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR OF SUGAR MONSTER

From model to cake artist: “Modeling taught me independence and gave me a front-row seat to creativity at a high level. But it also came with challenges, and while looking for an escape, I discovered I felt most grounded when I was making something with my hands. Baking started as therapy. It was creative, quiet, tactile, and satisfying in a way fashion never quite was. I expanded to small cake orders, learned new techniques, and challenged myself to build experience. The turning point was competing on Cake Boss: Next Great Baker. Winning that show at 25 opened my eyes to the world of food media.

Being able to build a creative career while being present for my family and the life my fiancé and I are building together is, to me, the greatest marker of success.”

Giving back: “This is home. My daughter is growing up here. These are the beaches we go to, the sidewalks we walk, the playground she’ll always remember. Being part of something like the Compo Beach build just felt right. Getting to show up and work with power tools alongside strangers who quickly became friends? Sign me up.”

Creativity and connection: “My favorite thing about my career is that I get to build, experiment, pivot, and reinvent. I love the freedom that comes with carving out my own path. And there are so many women here building businesses and raising families, including many of my friends. Seeing everyone cheering each other on while continuing to do cool things and prioritizing family creates such a motivating energy.”

“What I do isn’t just massage, It’s about treating people with dignity, and caring for others when they’re vulnerable.’

Christine Horelick

LICENSED MASSAGE THERAPIST AND CERTIFIED

LYMPHEDEMA THERAPIST

Empathetic hands: “About eight years ago, I started focusing on post-surgical recovery, mainly women recovering from breast cancer and reconstructive procedures. The more I worked in this space, the more it felt like where I truly belonged. [Christine’s mother battled both non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and, later, breast cancer.] After years of developing emotional resilience and a deep capacity for empathy, supporting oncology patients through lymphatic therapy felt both natural and meaningful.”

More than massage: “I feel incredibly fortunate to have found a profession that brings me so much fulfillment and joy. I work with women from the time they are diagnosed with cancer, through reconstructive and plastic surgery, helping to educate and prepare them. Our sessions are similar to physical therapy, but relaxing. It’s long-term maintenance, but it feels luxurious. I have the privilege of being part of their care team, supporting them in a meaningful way and helping improve their quality of life while they focus on fighting the most difficult battle.”

Building something bigger:  “I am the daughter of a small business owner and I believe my work ethic was ingrained in me by my parents. I want my children to see that what I do isn’t just massage, It’s about treating people with dignity, and caring for others when they’re vulnerable. Success isn’t just measured by what you have, but by the lives you touch along the way.”

CONTINUED >

“By far the most rewarding thing about my second career as an author is the friendships I have made along the way.”

Heather Frimmer, M.D.

BOARD-CERTIFIED BREAST RADIOLOGIST AND AWARD-WINNING NOVELIST

Where science meets art: “When I took a radiology elective in medical school, I knew I’d found my perfect fit. I loved using imaging to solve puzzles, and I appreciated the clinical role breast imagers play in explaining test results. [In 2014], after being in practice for nearly 10 years,  I was craving a pursuit that would challenge me to think in different ways. Always an avid reader, I had dabbled with creative writing in the past, so I decided to take an introductory writing class [at the Westport Writers’ Workshop] on a whim. On the last day of class, my instructor strongly suggested I write a novel. I took her up on the challenge.”

Finding community: “By far the most rewarding thing about my second career as an author is the friendships I have made along the way. Be it fellow authors, booksellers, librarians, journalists or Bookstagrammers, the people I have met in the writing community have added wonderful depth, dimension, and meaning to my life. If I hadn’t taken the chance to write a novel, I never would have crossed paths with any of them.”

And nurturing the next gen of writers: “After being a student at the Westport Writers’ Workshop for more than a decade, I joined the board—without the workshop, I would have been writing blind and I never would have had the courage to put my work out into the world. My focus has been to strengthen the workshop community by offering readings and other social events and open writing hours to encourage writers to connect with each other, share their experiences, and write together.”

“By aligning our advocacy, we turn individual voices into a cultural chorus.”

Robin Jaffee Frank, PhD EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART, CT (MOCA\CT)

Photo by Maggie Farrell.

A champion of local arts: “Over the last year, while serving on the Visual Arts Advisory Committee, I didn’t just learn about this institution—I developed a profound belief in its potential. MoCA\CT offers captivating visual art exhibitions, world-class musical performances, and arts education for people of all ages and abilities. We expand minds and hearts.”

Leading a new vision: “Every day, I’m inspired by the talent and commitment of my new colleagues, the support of our Board, the dedication of our volunteers, and the generosity of our members and sponsors. Our mission is clear: we will elevate our curatorial and musical rigor; stabilize and grow our revenue and membership; and deepen our roots in the community. The arts are the social infrastructure of Westport.  MoCA\CT will continue to be a place where our community comes together to be inspired.”

Stronger together: “I spent most of my career as a curator of American paintings and sculpture at the Yale University Art Gallery and as chief curator at the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art. It’s a joy to be working in the town I call home, and to have the opportunity to leverage my professional experience to contribute to the arts in my own community. My philosophy is simple: we are stronger when we are collaborative. MoCA\CT is a central cultural partner in Fairfield County and the tri-state area, and we’re strengthening ties with the region’s leading museums. While our institutions vary in scope, our challenges are identical—rising costs and a shifting donor landscape. By aligning our advocacy, we turn individual voices into a cultural chorus.”

“When I turned forty, I asked myself the question: ‘if I could have had another career what else would I have done?’ The answer was working in psychology, so I gave myself graduate school for my 40th birthday.”

Elizabeth Crossfield

LICENSED MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST AT GREENWICH PSYCHOLOGY GROUP

Westport on a whim: “We left New York City after my oldest daughter was born. We settled in Westport despite not knowing anyone here. The decision was based solely on the feeling we got when we drove through town once. Connecticut is beautiful and of course we loved being on the water but what was most important to me was having a downtown to walk to. It felt like a good way to transition from city life. At the time, there was a Barneys on Main Street and as embarrassing as this is to admit, that definitely helped sway me! Now,  I love the natural beauty, old homes, the dog parks, the restaurants, the cool shops, and the arts community. I have great friends here and my kids still tell me how lucky they feel to have grown up in this town.”

Reinvention at 40: “I am a licensed marriage and family therapist at Greenwich Psychology Group. My first career was in fashion, and I loved it. When I turned forty, I asked myself the question: ‘if I could have had another career what else would I have done?’ The answer was working in psychology, so I gave myself graduate school for my 40th birthday and have been practicing ever since.”

Family first: “I was raised to have a strong family connection. I am someone who needs purpose to feel happy and fulfilled. My work and my relationships are where I put my energy. We are constantly learning from each other, and laugh a lot.”

“One question I almost always ask is, ‘What is your favorite feature?’ Starting there shifts the focus away from imperfections and toward what makes someone beautiful.”

The art of aging well: “I’ve always considered myself an artist. Drawing and painting have long been passions of mine, and I realized aesthetic medicine beautifully blends my interests in art, science, and procedural work. Starting Chem Chronos allowed me to combine my medical training as a surgical physician assistant, procedural expertise, and artistic perspective to help patients achieve natural, balanced results.”

Finding your best self: “One question I almost always ask is, ‘What is your favorite feature?’ Starting there shifts the focus away from imperfections and toward what makes someone beautiful. My philosophy is always to enhance, not change. The best results are when someone looks refreshed and confident without it being obvious why. I’m also very honest with patients. Sometimes the most important part of a consultation is reassuring someone that they don’t need as much as they think they do.”

Support system:  “My husband’s unwavering support gave me the confidence to start my own business. I want my three sons to see their mother as intelligent, hardworking, and capable. At the same time, building my own practice—here, in the town where we live—allows me the flexibility to be present for them when it matters most. I genuinely love what I do.”

Rachel Katz Frank, PA-C

OWNER, CHEM CHRONOS MEDICAL AESTHETICS

“Westport is a special place because it’s made up of individuals who believe in contributing to the rich fabric of our town.”

Amanda Castellano

VICE PRESIDENT, INVESTMENTS AT MOORS & CABOT INVESTMENTS; BOARD MEMBER OF THE WOMEN'S BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL, FAIRFIELD COUNTY'S COMMUNITY FOUNDATION, HOMES WITH HOPE, AND WESTERN CONNECTICUT STATE UNIVERSITY

Fitness to finance: “Sports and fitness have had a great impact on my life. Successful athletes learn the importance of self-discipline, teamwork and community early on. As a personal trainer and, later, company founder, I had the opportunity to hone these skills in order to better communicate with my clients. These same skills are the cornerstone for how I guide my clients today. Understanding not just their financial lives, but also what they envision for themselves and their families over generations.”

A lifelong giver:  “I have fond memories of taking part in service projects as a Girl Scout and volunteering alongside my church’s youth group. I saw how giving even a small amount of time can make a difference. From then on, I’ve strived to pay it forward. Westport is a special place because it’s made up of individuals who believe in contributing to the rich fabric of our town. Whether it’s preserving our artistic roots, supporting newly arrived families, or encouraging educational opportunities, Westport is proof of what a thriving community can be when we support our neighbors.”

And mentor: “From experience, everything’s harder when you feel as if you’re the only one doing it. As a female founder, woman in sports, and now in finance, I’ve cherished the mentors I’ve had along the way. That’s why I’m passionate about encouraging and giving visibility to founders who are often underrepresented. If I can help another woman navigate the hurdles that come with scaling a successful venture, why wouldn’t I? As a mentor, I am seeing firsthand the creativity, fearlessness, and unique perspectives that the next generation of leaders brings.”

“I have built sustainability practices into as many parts of the operation as possible, from packaging to swag, proving that it’s possible with a bit of focus.”

Jes Parker

FOUNDER, TAKE2TRAIL

Becoming an ultrarunner: “After having kids, running was the one thing I could get done with whatever time I had and minimal planning. I stumbled upon obstacle course racing (OCR) and found it to be an ideal match for my combination of endurance and strength. After completing my first 32 mile Spartan Ultra at Mountain Creek, there was no looking back. At 40 years old, in 2019, I participated in my first 12 hour, overnight, looped-style OCR race. I had one goal: run 40 miles. I ran 45 official miles and managed to come in second place. After that it became about seeing just how far my feet can take me…the answer at this point is 103 miles.”

Paying it forward: “The idea for Take2Trail came to me when packing for the Javalina Jundred in 2025. I found myself digging though bins of packs I didn’t love, headlamps I no longer needed, shoes that didn’t work for me, and more. Around the same time, my closest running friend was left holding onto a running belt she had used once, hated, and had also lost a part to. These experiences made me realize how much ‘stuff’ goes unused after a single experience. I wanted to come up with something that solved this, and Take2Trail was born.”

Helping runners and the environment: “Take2Trail gives people a way to keep items out of landfills, makes the sport less expensive, and creates a circular economy ideal for environmentally focused runners. I have built sustainability practices into as many parts of the operation as possible, from packaging to swag, proving that it’s possible with a bit of focus.”

CONTINUED >

“Styling is where I learned to see detail, confidence, and transformation. But my focus now is building Gather and creating experiences that bring people together in meaningful ways.”

Maria Rowbotham DIRECTOR OF PRODUCTION & MARKETING AT GATHER

EVENTS; HOST OF THE SHE’S SMART PODCAST

Building her own path: “When I moved to New York, I took a job in finance to pay the bills, and started styling friends and family on the side. I loved it. It wasn’t just about clothing — it was helping women feel powerful in their own skin. It grew into a 15-year business with wonderful, loyal clients. I loved styling—and still do—but about a year ago, I felt ready to stretch creatively. My friend Daniela had just launched Gather, her event planning company. Joining Gather felt natural; our strengths complement each other. Styling is where I learned to see detail, confidence, and transformation. But my focus now is building Gather and creating experiences that bring people together in meaningful ways.”

Lifting up strong women: “Over the years, I had the privilege of meeting extraordinary women. A real gift wasn’t just helping them get dressed, it was the conversations. I kept thinking more people need to hear these stories. So I started a podcast. I made a list of every woman I’d want to interview. I taught myself how to record, produce, edit. I started inviting women from my list, and they all said yes. The name ‘She’s Smart’ stems from the truth—the guests are the smart ones. I get to sit across from them and learn.”

Serving her community:   “When we moved here, the Weston Women’s League was my entry point into the community. Co-chairing Main Street Weston holds a special place in my heart. I love Weston. Being involved has allowed me to build friendships and to contribute to something bigger than myself.”

“We found ourselves daydreaming about building something thoughtful and empowering for the neurodivergent community, so, we started NeuroMind.”

Chelsea Elkind, M.S., OTR/L and Lauren Rosenblum, M.S., CCC-SLP

CO-FOUNDERS OF NEUROMIND SERVICES

Friends and advocates: “Chelsea and I met through a mutual friend while on maternity leave,” explains Lauren. “We had tremendous overlap in our professions, creativity, passion, and drive, and we realized it would be a great idea to join forces when we returned to work. We found ourselves daydreaming about building something thoughtful and empowering for the neurodivergent community, so, we started NeuroMind, a hub for neurodivergent people looking for mindful support that is affirming and comprehensive. Since launching, NeuroMind has grown into a multidisciplinary practice of speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, counselors, and social workers serving neurodivergent individuals and families.”

Giving people tools—and empowerment:  “My journey into deeper self-understanding began when I started approaching my own patterns with curiosity instead of criticism,” says Chelsea. “What once felt like personal flaws gradually revealed themselves as patterns I could learn from, anticipate, and work with. As I developed a deeper awareness of myself and how the mind works, I learned to replace self-judgment with self-compassion and began building tools, systems, and practices that support growth and empowerment. That shift became a defining moment in my life and work. [For me], success means building systems and strategies that work with our unique brains rather than against them. The most meaningful moments are when clients move from self-criticism to self-understanding.”

Part of Westport’s future: “This is the town that shaped me,” says Lauren, who grew up here. “To now contribute to its fabric, not just as a resident, but as a business owner, clinician, and mother, feels like a full-circle moment. I’m grateful to be building something mission-driven here and to give back through support, advocacy, and education. I’m proud to stand among women who are working every day to make Westport stronger, more compassionate, and more forward-thinking for the next generation.”

Rediscover planning... with you at the center

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 CARLY CARDELLINO AND LAUREN COSENZA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHELSEA NEFF

Your essential spring edit for luminous skin, bright eyes, and a fresh flush of color.

PRETTY NECESSARY

You can take the girls out of the city, but they’ll bring their beauty recs with them. After an endless winter, beauty experts and consultants Carly Cardellino (@carlycardellino) and Lauren Cosenza (@laurencosenza) share their selects for effortless, seasonal beauty. Locally sourced and freshly picked.

Advanced Technology for Safer, More Precise Surgical Care

Experience the difference advanced technology makes— schedule your consultation today for precise, modern oral surgical care.

Staying at the forefront of technology is essential in delivering exceptional oral surgical care. From 3D imaging to advanced surgical techniques, modern innovations allow for greater precision, improved safety, and faster recovery. Patients can feel confident knowing their treatment is guided by the latest advancements designed to enhance outcomes and overall experience.

KERRI SEASON HAS ARRIVED

KERRI KENNEY-SILVER IS BACK FOR THE NEW SEASON OF NETFLIX’S 'THE FOUR SEASONS.' AND HER ACTING CAREER BEGAN RIGHT HERE IN WESTPORT.

ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA CHOU

On May 28th, The Four Seasons, Netflix’s hit about a group of friends navigating midlife, based on the 1981 movie of the same name returns for a second season. The cast includes Tina Fey, Will Forte, Coleman Domingo, Marco Calvani, Erika Henningsen, and Kerri Kenney-Silver, who stars as Anne, one-half of the couple whose divorce kicks off the events of the series. (Minor spoiler if you haven’t seen the first season: Anne’s ex-husband, played by Steve Carell, isn’t returning for season two, but that’s all we’ll say.) A longtime comedic actor, Kerri is perhaps best known for playing Deputy Trudy Wiegel on Reno 911! for the better part of two decades; she’s also had recurring roles on shows like Superstore and Love, done voice work for animated series like Bob’s Burgers, and is a member of the cult-beloved sketch comedy troupe The State. But she first fell in love with performing right here in Westport. “I credit Staples High School as the reason I’m in the business I’m in,” Kerri tells Westport Lifestyle.

Kerri and her mother, Sharon, and father, Larry, moved to Westport from New York City in the mid1970s, eventually settling in a house near Compo Beach where Kerri fondly recalls “walking to the little store [now Old Mill Grocery] to buy candy, and going to Old Mill Beach and fishing,” she says. “It sounds like I was

raised in the ‘40s! But it was absolutely beautiful.”  Kerri’s parents divorced when she was eight, and her dad, Larry Kenney, a gifted voiceover artist whose credits include the Cocoa Puffs bird, Imus In The Morning, and the “taste the rainbow” Skittles tagline, moved back to Manhattan. “So I was splitting my time between Manhattan and Westport, which was really just a dream,” Kerri says. “I would go see theater on the weekends in New York, and then come back to the Westport Country Playhouse.” It inspired her to participate in her own shows, like on the 4th of July in 1980 when she “pranced around the Levitt Pavilion singing ‘You’re a Grand Old Flag.’ I still know the choreography!” she says with a laugh. “I just have such magical memories of Westport. We’d go to Friendly’s across the street from the Levitt, then to the Remarkable Bookshop where I’d get to pick out a book. I took cooking classes at the Y, where I learned how to make pizzas out of English muffins. We’d lay out on the beach, my mom on her towel, listening to the Eagles and using the little barbecues to make an early dinner. It was beautiful.”

When Kerri got to high school, she found a second home in the Staples Players theater ensemble. “We had the most unbelievable program there. Al Pia was running it, Joe Ziegahn was doing all the sets, Judy Luster was one of my teachers. We lived in Joe’s office between classes, learning everything we could. It almost felt like we were doing classwork as an extra to being in an acting conservatory,” she says. She also joined the choir, under choir director George Wiegel—who had such a big impact on her that she ended up naming her Reno 911! character, Trudy Wiegel, after him. While at Staples, she became co-president of Staples Players with Kipp Marcus, “who is still one of my best friends today,” she says. She built sets, organized rehearsals, ran budgets, played a lead in a Staples production of Chicago, and wrote and worked on one-act plays for the black box theater. “As an adult, I look back and think God, how lucky. The beach is there. There’s theater. There’s creativity. And there I was, in a public school with every possible resource. It was so informative. I credit a large amount of my career to it.”

CONTINUED >

And what a career: from Staples, Kerri went on to NYU, where she studied experimental theater at the Tisch School of the Arts. While there, she joined the comedy group that eventually became The State, which ran as a series on MTV from 19931995. She’s worked steadily in comedy projects ever since. But last year, The Four Seasons became her breakout dramedy role, allowing her to dig into the complex, layered emotions of Anne, a woman in her mid-50s who has to navigate losing her husband of 25 years, the ways her friendships in their shared social circle change post-divorce, and her ex’s new, much younger girlfriend. Actor Michael Ian Black, Kerri’s longtime friend and fellow member of The State, wrote on his Substack about Kerri’s role on the show: “At last, she has a part worthy of her gifts. A fully realized adult woman who’s funny and sad and complicated. They could have had any actress they wanted for that role, they picked Kerri, and ended up getting the better end of the deal.”

The significance of being cast as Anne wasn’t lost on Kerri, either. “I am known for being in the world of sketch comedy,” she says. “The idea that they would hire me, and not an actress known for drama and realism—I could not believe it. I was just so thrilled.” And once they started filming, things kept getting better. “It was alchemy from the minute we all stepped on that set,” she says. (Credit to Tina Fey where it’s due: “She’s a genius,” Kerri says. “She said ‘I’m putting together a group of people that are kind and will be fun to work with, we’re gonna work in nice places, and we’re gonna wear comfortable clothes.” What more could an actor want?) “[This show] felt important, because even just 10 or 15 years ago, as an actress in my mid-50s, I’d be done at this point. But the center of this story is a group of friends in their mid-50s, because guess what? We’re still here, and we’re still doing things. What a fun story to tell.”    The film the show is based on tells a self-contained, two-hour story, so to come back for a second season was pixie dust on top of a dream. “I really tried to stay out of my head about the future, thinking oh, please don’t let this be one and done,”

she says. “For season two, I’m so thrilled about Anne’s journey. Every time I imagined what it might be, the script came in and was a thousand times better.”

The series was something of a surprise hit—even with stars like Tina Fey and Coleman Domingo attached, it was based on a relatively obscure movie (written and directed by Alan Alda in 1981) and about people in midlife, so there was no guarantee it would find a broad audience. “But more people in their 20s come up to me at airports than any other generation,” Kerri says. It turns out, viewers of all ages want characters and stories that feel real, which The Four Seasons has in spades. “Tina and the writers are so brilliant at tapping into little nuances about aging,” Kerri says. “And I’m so drawn right now to authenticity, even if it’s jowly and messy and forgetful. Stepping into this character, for me, was more about taking things off than putting something on.”

The role has been transformative for Kerri, who says she hopes to continue to show audiences new sides of herself in her performances. “I have a wonderful career. I’ve been incredibly lucky to be consistently working in this alternative comedy world. But to feel like there’s a new chapter, now, that involves what I trained to do as an actor all those years ago? Every day feels like a gift.”

Season two of The Four Seasons premieres on Netflix on May 28, 2026.

KERRI'S WESTPORT

Slowing Down at The Chase

Weston's newest spot is a place to call home.

The Chase, an out-of-the-box dive bar concept, is something owner Josh Tolk has been dreaming up since the early 2000s. In 2026, the doors are finally open. Weston’s brand new drinking and dining saloon (located in the former Lunch Box space in Weston Center) is unlike anything else around: part openair pub, part N.Y.C-style underground club, part vintage diner, and completely inspired by Josh's love for eye-catching collectibles and personal memorabilia. “One of my first thoughts when designing this space was, ‘I can finally get my beer can collection out of my mom’s attic!’” he tells  Westport Lifestyle (Other decor includes his framed Zeta Beta Tau fraternity composite, an authentic Boston T sign, and other treasures Josh has collected from Elephant's Trunk and Brimfield Market over the years.) Its inviting, nostalgic atmosphere welcomes guests back to the days before smartphones and AI.  Trumbull-native Josh, a professional real estate property manager, has been the Weston Center landlord since 1990. In 2014, he and his wife Jessica—hungry to get into the restaurant business—purchased Weston’s beloved

ARTICLE BY ALI SCHWARTZ BALBES

Lunch Box (est. 1977) from original owners and friends Dante and Barbara Zacavish. But the concept for The Chase was on Josh's mind long before then: when he first approached Dante in 2006 with his Bridgeport billiard hall idea, Dante's response was “'I have a better idea: why don’t you buy the Lunch Box,'” Josh recalls. Eight years later, he did, but he never let go of his saloon dreams.

Between that original conversation with Dante in 2006 and his Lunch Box purchase in 2014, Josh and his wife got married, pregnant with their first daughter (they now have two), and he secretly enrolled in culinary school to prepare for his new endeavor. “I’d come home at one a.m., and Jessica would hand me a baby, and I’d sleep sitting up in a chair, covered in garlic, in my whites,” he says.

When the Tolks took over the Lunch Box, they added a full alcohol menu and their own personal flavor. “My wife and I like to have fun. We wanted to have a place where it’s common to see someone with

a Bud bottle sitting next to someone having breakfast,” he says. But after COVID hit, the Lunch Box was struggling, and the couple started ideating about what could come next. “Over the last five years, we’ve been experimenting at the restaurant to no avail,” he says. Finally, in 2024, to make space to create the lunch counter that Jessica had always dreamed of (now "an actual bar with a top" fashioned from an old bowling alley), Josh and his architect began the onerous zoning process to accommodate a new restaurant entrance on the east side of the building from the original south. “This venture has been pretty risky," he admits. "I wouldn’t have proceeded without my wife by my side.

She’s the gunslinger.” Ultimately, in the summer of 2025, the doors to the Lunch Box officially closed, and The Chase began to come to life.

Walking into The Chase today (a name inspired by the Tolk's family dog), you’d never know that this antique fever dream once housed the “quirky, grab-and-go spot where the staff always knew our names,”  as Caroline Cannon, a Weston native, describes the Lunch Box. The Chase menu consists of the staples: pizza, burgers, chicken sandwiches, and cocktails, with plans to expand offerings down the road. “There are so many fancy restaurants,” says Josh. What he and his family have created is, instead, a respite. “We are making it fun and different, so people can hang out.” So come in and slow down. The Chase is open for a good time well after midnight.

The Chase is located at 190 Weston Road in Weston.  @thechasebar for more.

PERIMENOPAUSE'S BIG MOMENT

ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY

LOCALLY, THE TOPIC IS HOTTER THAN EVER (NO PUN INTENDED).

Felicia Sale, owner of Restore Hyper Wellness in Westport, remembers being at birthday dinner recently when someone brought up starting the estrogen patch. The whole table joined in on the topic—and it wasn’t the first time she’d had a similar experience while catching up with friends. “It’s the conversation now,” she says. Discussions about all of the physical and mental changes of midlife are finally coming out of the shadows. “It’s what we all talk about.”

Just a few years ago, though, perimenopause was barely a buzzword, let alone discussed at birthday dinners. “Social media has changed everything,” says Daniel Lax, M.D., the founder of Westport’s VAVI Aesthetics and Gynecology and a double-board-certified physician specializing in gynecology and cosmetic surgery. “It’s a platform for people to talk about the things they’re experiencing with their health.”  Julia Dzafic, the local content creator behind @lemonstripes, has seen a huge appetite for perimenopause content from her audience of nearly 125,000 followers. “Last year, I posted on my Substack about how I had started hormone replacement therapy, and people went nuts for it,” she tells Westport Lifestyle. “I realized, ‘OK, there’s something to this.’ I think millennials hitting perimenopause, and being the first generation to be so online, has made people want to talk more about it.”

And these conversations aren’t just happening online: around town, more and more programming is dedicated to giving perimenopausal and menopausal women a voice. At the Westport Weston Family YMCA, trainer Beth Dalen leads MenoStrong classes, a weekly session for perimenopausal and menopausal women. “About a year ago, we wondered ‘is there anything we can do for this demographic to be more supportive?’’ says Patrick Freeman CSCS, CPT the senior director of Operations

CONTINUED >

and Wellness at the Y. “It was our way of giving back to our regulars.” The Friday classes are not only an opportunity to strength train (which fights off some of perimenopause and menopause’s more unpleasant symptoms, like slowing metabolism and bone density loss), but talk about the issues that participants may be facing with others who are going through it. “I try to create an environment where we can exchange information in a safe space,” says Beth. “And if I feel like people are a little bit shy about what they’re going through, I’ll share something about my experiences. I believe we need to speak and discuss perimenopause and menopause more openly, and make it less of a taboo subject.”

Inspired by that very mindset, Felicia teamed up with women’s wellness advocate Karen Fechter for an event on the evening of May 13 at the Westport Country Playhouse, Hot Takes. Karen and Felicia connected last year after Karen organized a screening of the documentary The M Factor—which also spoke to the stigma around discussing perimenopause and menopause. Felicia asked Karen to partner with her on a follow up event after the two women realized they were aligned in wanting to get solid, scientifically-backed knowledge into the hands of perimenopausal and menopausal women in the area. “There’s so much information out there that we’re all inundated with,” says Felicia. “I hope we clear up any confusion.” At the event, panelists like Shieva Ghofrany, M.D., a leading ob/gyn, Rachele Pojednic, PhD, EdM, FACSM, the chief science officer at Restore Hyper Wellness, and Katie Takayasu, M.D., an integrative medicine physician, will discuss all aspects of perimenopause and menopause, from physical symptoms to mental health to the

most up-to-date science on hormones. “Our tagline is ‘truth over trends in wellness,’” says Karen. “This is going to be a professional, thoughtful event with a focus on science-backed and clinical recommendations to help clear the confusion being spread by social media and others looking to profit off of our vulnerability. We will be covering body composition changes, anxiety and depression, sleep disturbances, brain fog, thyroid issues, and on and on. But it’s also going to be entertaining!” she says. “It’s very important to be able to laugh through this.” As an added bonus, says Karen, nearly everyone featured will be a local expert accepting new patients, so participants can continue the conversation one-on-one with doctors who are up-to-date on the latest research.

After so long in the shadows of the wellness world, it’s gratifying to see perimenopause discussed more frequently and openly, especially for women who haven’t yet reached the throes of menopause and will be better able to prepare themselves. “If I could go back, there’s so much I would do differently,” says Karen. “But now, the information is there. So I’m hoping we get women who are younger to hear it.” The twin benefits of this golden age for perimenopause, it seems, are education and camaraderie. “I just love being in a room full of women. It opens the door to incredible discussion,” says Karen. “I love the idea of being able to help women navigate this season of life.”

Day passes are available to the Westport Weston Family YMCA to try MenoStrong. For tickets and more information about Hot Takes, visit @hottakesonmidlife on Instagram.

“After so long in the shadows of the wellness world, it’s gratifying to see perimenopause discussed more frequently and openly, especially for women who haven’t yet reached the throes of menopause and will be better able to prepare themselves.”

CULINARY• EVENTS • LIFESTYLE

GATHER 'ROUND THE TABLE

HOMES WITH HOPE'S ANNUAL FUNDRAISER SPOTLIGHTS

GORGEOUS TABLE DESIGN.

On May 20, Homes with Hope presents its annual Gather ‘Round the Table luncheon, an event benefitting Susie’s House, Homes with Hope’s supportive housing program for young women building stable futures. At the lunch, held at Shorehaven Golf Club, local home and design experts put together stunning tablescapes, which are raffled off to attendees. In celebration of this beautiful tradition, Westport Lifestyle (the exclusive media sponsor of the event) asked some of the participants for their top tips to create a table guests will remember forever—and want to take home.

“Adding trinkets, treats, and take-aways for my guests makes for a memorable tablescape and sets the stage before and while the food is served.” -Yvonne O’Kane of Yvonne O’Kane Design

“Setting a large table can be challenging, as it can feel lonely and hard to converse.  For that reason, I create variations on a theme to invite discussion and comparison.” -Patricia Scanlan of Patricia Scanlan Interiors

“The best approach depends on the season and the venue. We spend a lot of time focusing on materials: last year, we used naturals. A beautiful stone centerpiece layered with earth-hued linens, leather placemats or coasters, and a hand-tied flower arrangement.” -Karen Frome, principal and founder of Rise Projects

“Don’t be afraid of a bold tablecloth—it brings instant energy and a sense of occasion your guests will feel the moment they sit down.” -Audrey Margarite of Scalamandré

“Always: beautiful flowers or greens, candles, pretty linens, place cards, and silverware.” -Nicole Bond of Coco & Company

“When designing a tablescape, we like to start with a central concept or focal point and build around that. For the last tablescape we created, we were inspired by the concept of home feeling like a sanctuary. We incorporated a textured blue and green fabric with tons of plants and greens to evoke the sense of calm and peace that we feel everyone's home deserves.” -Tusk Home + Design

“Don’t restrict yourself to matching sets!  I love layering different patterns and colors that complement one another.  It makes the table unique and more playful.”  -Danielle Perdue of DK Home

“My tables are rooted in the concept of Karam, the art of boundless generosity. I love to create a sense of discovery by layering fine linens with vintage finds, family heirlooms, and mementos from my travels, like Syrian textiles or Colombian napkin rings. To fully capture the spirit of abundance, I make the decor edible, weaving small dishes of nuts and baklava directly into the tablescape. Guests feel constantly surprised, delighted, and utterly cared for.” -Neva Alsheik of Maison Sheik

“Begin with a clear mood or narrative. Whether you’re channeling a relaxed garden brunch or a dramatic candlelit dinner, holding that vision in your mind helps every decision feel intentional. When the palette, textures, and silhouettes speak the same language, the table reads as elevated rather than overdone. And just as important, resist buying everything new. The most compelling tables feel collected and personal. Shop your own home first and pull from the china cabinet, the bar, or other rooms, so that the final setting feels warm, layered, and uniquely yours!” -Diane Rath of The Rath Project

"Tablescapes are all about the living centerpiece—I can’t imagine one without lush greenery. Layer in warm lighting with candles and play with different heights to add depth and a touch of magic." -Gaelle L. Dudley of GLDESIGN

"Our advice for an interesting, layered tablescape, is to always start with flowers and color. Mix patterns, embrace a little mismatch and let it feel collected rather than coordinated. Lastly, having an unexpected element that turns your table into an experience is where the magic truly lives." -Nicole Lacey and Lori Potutschnig of Lolli Sutton

“Use the good stuff!  I view setting the table like putting an outfit together. It's way more fun when you layer things, and mix your grandmother’s good china with a trendy piece.” -Zac Mathias of Zac Mathias Interiors

“Just like the design of a room can start with a single stroke of inspiration—like the colors of a carpet, a piece of furniture, or even a swatch of wallpaper—the best tablescapes do too. This year we are partnering with Matt Bier, who used all natural branch material for our centerpiece. That is our starting point and will dictate everything else!” -Deb Placey of The Post

"Vary your heights. Mixing tall, medium, and low elements instantly makes a table feel layered and interesting instead of flat." -Stephanie Purzycki of The Finish Design

For tickets and more information about Gather 'Round the Table, visit hwhct.org

By Lisa Cummings.

MAHJONG Must-Haves

When I first started getting into mahjong, I was drawn to the beautiful tiles and all the accessories, as any shopping addict would be. Unlike tennis or pickleball, where I eagerly bought the outfits and matching accessories only to promptly give up, mahjong has turned out to be the best new hobby.

Mahjong has a long history in America. It was first brought back from China by businessmen in the 1920s. By the 1930s, it had become especially popular among Jewish women, who later established the National Mah Jongg League in 1937.

Today, mahjong has become something of a social must. I learned the game through @mahjongliz, who

quickly became my new best friend in the process. I even attended my first retreat at the Mayflower Inn hosted by @goldcoastmahjongclub and have dabbled in playing in a league because honestly, what else am I doing at 9:30 on a Tuesday morning?

What I love most about the game is the connection it creates. In such a digital world, sitting around a table, playing a tactical game, and laughing with friends feels like exactly what we all need.

Artwork by @thelisacummings

ARTICLE BY ZAC MATHIAS | ARTWORK BY LISA CUMMINGS

PARTERRE MAHJONG

MAT IN BARK

LO&Co makes the most beautiful vegan leather mats. The patterns complement your room, instead of competing.

$175 loandcoshop.com

JOKER LINEN

COCKTAIL NAPKINS

When it comes to setting the perfect game table, no detail is

Zac Mathias (@zac.mathias) is a Connecticut-based interior designer, content creator, reality TV personality, and avid mahjong player. Known for his refined, sophisticated aesthetic and fresh take on classic design, Zac brings a modern sensibility to traditional style. Through his design work, digital platforms, and lifestyle content, he shares inspiration for creating beautiful spaces and living well. Whether desig ning interiors, hosting gatherings, or documenting everyday moments, Zac offers a thoughtful perspective on style, entertaining, and design while showing his audience how to make life feel just a little chicer.

lamps on my mahjong table (and also on the dinner table), but they can feel boring. I love adding a decorative shade.

$36, casabranca.com

SYCAMORE PUSHER RACKS

I love the bright green. I can see myself playing on the patio all summer with these.

$125, bkmahjong.com

FELT FLORAL MATS

These are the first mats I have found made of felt, and I prefer the look and feel of natural material.

$140, bkmahjong.com

MAHJONG MENAGERIE LONG SET

The perfect playful gift for the animal lover in your life.

$168, printfresh.com

38” COLLINS TABLE

Made in CT, the octagonal top gives this table a refined elegance. Pull-out drink trays make this the ultimate mahjong table. $4,100, centerandspring.com

PIERREPONT MAHJONG TILE SET

Tiles that respect the heritage of original sets while feeling fresh. $265, bkmahjong.com

ARTICLE BY KALI KASORZYK

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

BECKY HILLYARD

From Side Hustle to Style Empire

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

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

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

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

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

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

Q: HOW HAS INFLUENCER MARKETING CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED?

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Trust is the only metric that actually compounds.”

— Becky Hillyard

Your Next Chapter Depends on Your Next Move

High Conflict, High Net

MAY 2026

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MAY 1ST

Primary Trust

Westport Country Playhouse, 25 Powers Ct. | 8:00 PM

Eboni Booth’s 2024 Pulitzer Prize-winning breakout play comes to the Playhouse stage with an uplifting, gentle and powerful exploration of change, friendship, and quiet courage. Also on May 2 at 3:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. Tickets, from $50, at  westportplayhouse.org

MAY 9TH

Laura and Linda Benanti: Mothers Know Best

Westport Country Playhouse, 25 Powers Ct. | 4:00 PM

Experience Tony Award winner Laura Benanti as she joins forces with her mother, Linda, in a touchingly humorous show about mother-daughter relationships. Music direction by Billy Stritch. Tickets, from $75, at  westportplayhouse.org

MAY 9TH

Mother/Daughter Yoga Class and Book Signing

Studio45 Yoga, 201 Main St. | 11:00 AM

Lauren Barnett, owner of Family Consultants of Westport and author of  Don't Tell My Mom That I Love Her, will host a book talk and signing during a special mother/daughter yoga class. You can also catch her at Barnes & Noble in Fairfield on May 2 at 12 p.m., and Barnes & Noble Westport at 1:30 p.m. on May 9.

MAY 13TH

Hot Takes

Westport Country Playhouse, 25

Powers Ct. | 7:30 PM

Hot Takes is a community symposium for women in midlife, on May 13 at the Westport Country Playhouse. The evening will offer science-based con versations on topics like perimeno pause and menopause, metabolic health, muscle maintenance, sleep, nutrition, and mental health during midlife. For more, see page 66, or visit  @hottakesonmidlife on Instagram.

MAY 19TH

An Evening with Audra McDonald

Westport Country Playhouse, 25

Powers Ct. | 7:00 PM

Back for the first time since 2024, Emmy-, Grammy-, and six-time-Tony Award winner Audra McDonald graces the stage of the Westport Country Playhouse on May 19 for "An Evening with Audra McDonald." The 90-minute show will feature Andy Einhorn on piano. Tickets, from $150, at  westportplayhouse.org

MAY 24TH

Charlie Hall's Get Up With It

The Levitt Pavilion, 40 Jesup Rd. 7:00 PM

Hot tip for Jazz lovers: Don't miss the Miles Davis Centennial at the Levitt Pavilion with War on Drugs drummer and Wilton native Charlie Hall and his 11-piece GET UP WITH IT project. For tickets and info, visit levittpavilion.com.

Want

featured?

Thoughtfully rebuilt f rom a notable architectural origin, the home unfolds with light, volume, and a quiet sense of intention. Clean lines and open spaces create a setting that feels both modern and grounded.

THE WIE SUITE EDITOR’S PICK:

ARTICLE BY SARA GAYNES LEVY

If there's one thing this issue has proven, it's how many outstanding women there are in Westport, Weston, and Wilton. One of our Women of Westport honorees, Melissa Conner, has noticed this too— it's why she launched a Connecticut chapter of The WIE Suite, the private membership network founded by Dee Poku in 2020 and designed for exceptional women including C-suite executives, high-growth founders, investors, and cultural leaders. Earlier this year, I attended the launch event at the Delamar, and left incredibly inspired by the creative, driven, and goal-oriented women in the room. This isn't a typical networking organization: the events are thoughtfully planned, "high-impact learning experiences" that, Melissa explains, "are designed to support leadership growth and provide members with tactical insights from peers and industry leaders." The Connecticut chapter is sure to thrive given the industry leaders right here in Fairfield County—check out a WIE Suite event and see for yourself.