Westport Weston & Wilton - May/June 2026

58

JOEY WÖLFFER’S NEXT FRONTIER

A look inside the launch of the vineyard’s new non-alcoholic wine, being poured here in Connecticut this summer. by samantha yanks

64 GRAND OPENING

With seasonal fare, The Bedford by Martha Stewart opens to accolade’s at Foxwoods Resort Casino. by samantha yanks

68 THE GOOD LIFE

Our guide to living well and thriving in every moment. by jill johnson mann

BUZZ

Dr. Sarp Aksel, MD, named partner at Coastal OBGYN; Melissa Connor on launching the Connecticut chapter of The WIE Suite.

DO

News anchor and bestselling author Dana Perino discusses her debut novel Purple State ahead of her appearance at The Westport Library; Becker Chicaiza expands his signature studio; A roundup of can’t-miss performances at The Levitt Pavilion.

EAT

Theo’s General Store brings a coffee and pantry concept to Wilton; Sushi Jinmarks one year with expanded al fresco dining; Westport Farmers’ Market celebrates 20 years with Lori Cochran Dougall.

SHOP

Ariel Okin debuts her new book; Serena & Lily celebrates 10 years in Westport.

53 PEOPLE AND PLACES 87 INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

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vol. 28 | no. 3 | may/june 2026

editorial

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editor’s letter

SPRING IN BLOOM

There’s a certain rhythm to spring in Fairfield County, the sense of renewal, of fresh ideas taking shape, of community gathering again with intention. This issue reflects that energy in all its forms: entrepreneurial, creative and deeply local.

Serena & Lily’s ten-year anniversaries to the Westport Farmers’ Market celebrating 20 years of connecting community and culture.

Across our towns and across disciplines, our talent here continue to lead with impact.

1: With Jacob Fisher and Casey Romaine of Theo’s General Store 2: Marisa Grimshaw Vice President of Brand Marketing at Rhone 3: On set with Sharon Macey guesting on her podcast Mom to More

4: With Recess Performance Club Founder Eric Johnson 5: With Penny Gorman as her guest speaking at HAVYN’s POWERUp Series in Greenwich

6: At Startup Westport’s inaugural Founders Stories event with Kerri Rosenthal and Jen Tooker

7: With Abbey Carnivale on set as NBC CT Live’s Style

Contributor 8: The best family portrait session with my husband David and our daughter Sadie along with our labs Wonton and Tobiko

We begin with a cover story on Joey Wölffer, whose latest non-alcoholic launch speaks to a broader cultural shift toward mindful living without sacrificing style or experience. It’s a thoughtful evolution, and one that feels very much of the moment to feature. We discuss the vineyard under her direction, a short ferry ride away and explore the locales in which you can secure a bottle or two for yourself.

That same spirit of purpose and progress carries through our features. Melissa Connor is helping to shape a new kind of professional community with the launch of the Connecticut chapter of The WIE Suite, one rooted in connection, collaboration, and the advancement of women founders and leaders. We also celebrate milestones close to home, from Kerri Rosenthal and

From Dr. Skarp Aksl’s new partnership at Coastal OBGYN and his focus on women’s wellness, to designers like Ariel Okin, whose latest book, The Happy Home, invite us to rethink how we live, this issue is filled with stories of vision and momentum.

As always, this issue is about more than places, it’s about people. From conversations at the Westport Library with authors like Dana Perino, to new creative ventures, salons and seasonal gatherings at the Levitt Pavilion, we’re reminded that what makes this area so special is the way it continues to evolve while staying deeply connected.

Here’s to a season of new beginnings and to the people and ideas shaping what comes next.

founder’s page

“During one birthday celebration, the man of the hour created quite a mess when he threw his cake into a fan.”

OF TALES OF THE 5:11 BAR CAR

My, how a commuter’s life has changed—especially with the demise of Metro-North’s iconic bar car in 2014, the last of its kind in the U.S. Soon after that, Amtrak introduced café cars, but they’re not nearly as much fun.

There are still people in Greenwich who remember riding the 5:11 out of New York back in the Fifties and Sixties with the mad men of advertising, mostly magazine and agency types. It was an express to Riverside, either because a railroad official lived there or the railroad owed one to a journalist who did.

In any case, it became known as the V:XI Gentlemen’s Bar Car, and in 1991 Greenwich Library Oral History asked commuter Bob Pearson to tell it like it was.

It was a comfortable old Pullman car—halfcompartments, half-lounge with plush chairs, paneled walls and a jovial Irish bartender. For air-conditioning, a circulating system blew air over blocks of ice piled at one end of the car.

The dozens of regulars who rode the 5:11 included ad man Verne Westerberg, who became publisher of four Condé Nast magazines; newspaper editor Norton Mockridge of the World Telegram and Sun; and Libby O’Brien, one of few women and an executive of Lily Tulip Cup. Combination den mother/Pearl Mesta, Libby was into celebrating any kind of holiday. Out would come the streamers, party hats and horns. During one birthday celebration, the man of the hour created quite a mess when he threw his cake into a fan.

They framed pictures of these parties and mounted them on the walls. They also brought in their own furniture. Bob Pearson, speechwriter for the CEO of Shell Oil, was often last to board and had to stand all the way to Riverside. So, Libby bought an old wooden chair and plastered it with gaudy shell decals for him.

“There were no teetotalers on that car,”

observed Verne, recalling a power outage when they got stuck at 125th Street during a Team Gin Rummy game. The bartender finally ran out of booze, but they found a guy outside who, for 10 bucks, brought in cases of beer, which kept the game going until buses arrived at midnight and forced them to disembark.

Then came the day the railroad decided the 5:11 had to be replaced with a more modern car. What? “Take away our bar car?!” they moaned. Norton Mockridge ran a human-interest story about it in his newspaper, and soon Bob got an invitation from a representative of the president of the New York, New Haven and Hartford Railroad to come talk about it. His man explained that the old car had gone millions of miles, it wasn’t economical to keep icing it, and they could have a new Pullman just as nice. “We could even paint the name ‘Gentlemen’s Bar Car’ on the side,” he added.

“Sounds real good,” said Bob. “But make it ‘V:XI G.B.C.’ ”

“And,” the guy concluded, “we’ll transfer all your memorabilia from the old car and hang your pictures on the wall.”

Before long, the 5:11ers had little gold V:XI lapel pins and tie clips made, plus earrings for the ladies.

As a PR grand finale, the railroad suggested a dedication ceremony on the new V:XI G.B.C. The Metro-North president showed up with champagne, flowers, a photographer and an entourage of aides to celebrate en route to 125th, where he’d get off. He didn’t know that regulations forbade people from boarding at Grand Central and getting off at 125th and vice versa, thus competing with the city transit system. So, when the conductor stopped him leaving, the CEO protested: “But I’m president of the railroad!” to which the conductor replied: “Yes, and I’m Napoleon. You still can’t get off!” Those were the days. W

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Spotlight on: Coastal Obstetrics & Gynecology

MBY JILL JOHNSON MANN

arch was Women’s History Month and women’s history has been fraught with sub-par medical attention. Earlier this year we reported on the decades-long cover-up of research on menopausal replacement therapy that has women saying—or shrieking—enough. For many women, the relationship with her ob/gyn is the most important one she will have with a doctor in her life. At Coastal Obstetrics & Gynecology,

“Patients are treated as partners in their care. Women’s voices are heard. Their preferences and needs are prioritized, and for new partner Dr. Aksel, this outlook on female care goes back to his youth.”

one of the last independent private practices in Fairfield County, patients are treated as partners in their care. Women’s voices are heard. Their preferences and needs are prioritized, and for new partner Dr. Aksel, this outlook on female care goes back to his youth.

NEW PARTNER DR. AKSEL & THE COASTAL TEAM

Sarp Aksel was born in Ithaca, New York, to Turkish immigrants who came to the States to pursue graduate degrees. “I come from a big family of engineers,” says Dr. Aksel. “I have vivid memories of my mom trying to teach me calculus when I was around 10. I just wasn’t grasping the concepts. She was like, ‘This is awful. What are you going to do with your life?’”

He turned to science and found his passion. “I loved biology early on,” says Aksel. “It started with animals, and then I got really

excited about the human body. I started volunteering at around 13 at a women’s hospital, and it just launched from there.” He got a behind-the-scenes view of the inner workings of hospitals. “That was back when New York State tried consolidating health care systems. So this hospital, one of two women’s specialty hospitals in the country, was set to be acquired. It had long been a pillar of the community and required a big campaign to keep it from being shut down,” he explains. “Ultimately we were able to get the state to at least concede that they couldn’t shut down a labor floor. This was in the early 2000s, which foreshadows what’s going on right now with all these maternity deserts across the country. That was my first foray into seeing how differently women’s health was treated in America.”

In college at Cornell, Aksel became passionate about international women’s rights. “I did a lot of work around reproductive health and fistula care in the Congo,” he says. “The justice part of it has really spoken to me and that unfortunately hasn’t really changed in this day and age.”

Aksel received his medical degree with distinction in reproductive health at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City and completed his residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Montefiore Medical Center. He has been practicing in the NY/CT area since 2015 and joined Coastal, in Stamford, in 2022. “Dr. Gennaro started the practice in 1991. He did everything: delivered babies, did pap smears, hysterectomies,” explains Aksel.

Dr. Gennaro, who has brought thousands of babies into the world, says, “Now my focus is continuity. I focus on running the office and providing prenatal,

well-woman and gynecologic care that doesn’t rush the patient. The relationship still matters. I still call all my patients on their milestone birthdays. My role has evolved into being that steady, familiar touchpoint in the community, someone who knows a patient’s history and can connect the dots over years, not just visits. Some of my biggest joys are caring for patients I delivered decades ago, who are now coming to me with their first pregnancies!”

Dr. Cahill is a certified menopausal practitioner. “Recently, there’s a lot of noise around menopause and perimenopause care,” says Dr. Cahill. “My goal is to turn that noise into digestible, individualized advice that takes into consideration a woman’s symptoms, health history and priorities. Some women feel great with non-hormonal options, while others do best with hormones.” He advises, “If your body feels like it’s changing the rules on you and messing with what your normal was, that’s the moment to come in. Sleep, cycles, mood, temperature regulation and focus can all be the first signs. I like to meet patients early, when symptoms are starting, because small thoughtful adjustments can prevent a spiral of trialand-error frustration. My office staff get tired of me saying this, but if a patient calls saying their symptoms are affecting their life, don’t make them wait, bring them in. It makes for a messy schedule, but a much happier patient.”

Dr. Antonios Panagiotakis (“Dr. Antonios”) focuses on surgery. “A lot of my work is minimally invasive treatment of heavy bleeding, fibroids, polyps, endometriosis and pelvic pain,” he explains. “Common procedures include hysteroscopic polyp and fibroid removal, ovarian cyst surgery, endometriosis

“I’m not going to prohibit a woman from practicing autonomy over her body. We offer choices and options.”

Dr. Sarp Aksel

Patrick Cahill, MD, and Sarp Aksel, MD surgery and minimally invasive hysterectomy. I spend a lot of time counseling my patients on all their options. Sometimes the best surgery is no surgery. We pick the least invasive path that still solves the problem.”

Dr. Aksel says, “I love obstetrics. It’s a big reason why I went into women’s health as a night owl. I thought the hours were epic. I like the adrenaline rush of getting called in the middle of the night. I also liked the idea of hanging up a shingle and being there for the community, being there for folks’ questions through pregnancy and after—having that longevity in the relationship.”

With the national cesarean rate hovering over 32 percent, where does Coastal fall? “Somewhere in the low 20s,” says Aksel. “There are a lot of things we do that are helpful in decreasing our C-section rate. For instance, I will deliver twins vaginally; that’s pretty uncommon even in the tri-state area. There is a lot

that can be done to minimize intervention and allow women to stay out of the hospital as long as possible and put off as long as possible having to make that decision around having to deliver surgically. I also have women walk into my office and say, ‘I never want to deliver vaginally.’ I have others who want an unmedicated hypnobirth, no epidural. Bonding with patients over their vision of what they want their birth experience to be—I think that’s something that is incredibly rewarding.”

Dr. Aksel always make sure women are fully informed of risks and benefits but says, “I’m not going to prohibit a woman from practicing autonomy over her body. We offer choices and options.” Coastal has a midwife on staff, Cherida Lally, which is a reassuring sign to women looking for mother-centric care. “When I was in training, midwives taught me how to measure the fundus and how to put my hands on a pregnant person’s belly and have a sense of positioning and size,” says Aksel. “So I love exchanging stories with Cherida.”

Inspired by the midwifeassisted birth of her two sons, Cherida Lally (CNM) earned her Masters in Nurse Midwifery from Columbia University in 1997. “I no longer deliver babies, but after having 1,500 babies born into my hands, I’ve got a lot of good ideas about helping families cope well with labor,” she says. “I see my role at Coastal as having a strong educational bent. The doctors are all great—I’d have a baby with any one of them [she means in the delivery sense!]—but I like to take the time to address the things that might be worrying our patients. If I just ask how they are, they’ll often say fine... but then I probe a little deeper about what might be worrying or scaring them.” Whether it’s fears about knowing

when they’re in labor, coping with the pain, understanding the physiology of how birth actually happens, or myths they’ve heard, Lally is there to offer patients unhurried counseling. “I talk to their partners about how they can be helpful,” says Lally, “because they’ll often feel useless, but they can actually make a huge difference.”

Lally is also passionate about postpartum care. “Everyone is so focused on bringing the baby into the world, and that is no small thing. But bringing your baby home is the real challenge,” she says. She encourages patients having a hard time to come in and get help. “The word ‘midwife’ is from old German and means ‘with woman,’” says Lally. “Midwives take care of women throughout their life span. The needs of patients who are not pregnant are just as important. So it’s helping young girls deal with menstrual problems and helping them avoid unwanted pregnancies (hope is not enough!), dealing with miscarriages and helping perimenopausal women cope with that chaotic transition. Midwifery care is more than babies!”

Dr. Shieva Ghofrany brings another facet to the practice, with her training in Integrative Health and Healing. She also brings personal experience as a mom and ovarian cancer patient to her approach and is the daughter of a female physician who was her role model in “leading with empathy.” Shieva shares a wealth of information about pregnancy, gynecology and mindset @drshievag as well as classes and free resources at tribecalledv.com

Coastal Obstetrics & Gynecology

999 Summer Street, Suite 401

Stamford, CT (203) 353-9099

coastalobgynct.com

Building the Network Effect

How Melissa Connor is helping bring a powerful global community of women leaders to Connecticut

BY SAMANTHA YANKS

With a career spanning brand strategy, investing and community building, Melissa Connor is focused on one mission: connecting women founders, executives and creators to the relationships and resources that help ideas grow.

SY: You’re a Connecticut native and Weston resident with a background spanning JBC and angel investing through After Hours. What led you to focus on supporting women founders and leaders?

MC: I’ve always been drawn to building, whether that’s brands, communities, or opportunities. My career in consumer and brand strategy showed me how many extraordinary women were leading companies and shaping culture, yet often lacked access to the same networks, visibility, and capital that accelerate growth.

Through my work with JBC

and angel investing with After Hours alongside my business partner, I began seeing firsthand how powerful it is when women are not only in the room, but actively opening doors for one another. Supporting women founders felt like a natural extension of the work I was already doing, connecting people, sharing resources and helping great ideas gain momentum.

I’ve come to believe that when women invest in and advocate for each other, the ripple effects extend far beyond business.

SY: For readers who may not know it yet, what is The WIE Suite and what inspired you to launch the Connecticut chapter?

MC: The WIE Suite is a global membership community founded by Dee Poku that brings together women across industries, founders, executives, investors, and creatives, through meaningful connection, mentorship and

access. It’s built around the idea that relationships are one of the most powerful forms of capital.

Having spent many years in New York, I experienced how transformative those kinds of communities can be. When I moved back to Connecticut, I realized there were so many accomplished, ambitious women here but fewer intentional spaces where they could regularly gather, collaborate and support one another.

Launching the Connecticut

chapter, and now serving as the Connecticut Brand Ambassador, felt like an opportunity to bring that same energy and access closer to home, in a way that reflects the unique character of this community.

SY: Why do you believe Connecticut is the right place for a community like this right now?

MC: There’s been a real shift over the past few years. Many

women who built careers in cities like New York have returned or relocated to Connecticut, bringing incredible experience, creativity and entrepreneurial ambition with them. At the same time, more women are launching businesses, investing and redefining leadership on their own terms.

Connecticut has always had talent; what it has needed is more connective tissue. Right now, it feels like an inflection point where people are actively looking for community, collaboration and purpose-driven networking rather than traditional transactional spaces. The timing feels incredibly aligned.

SY: Were there women who inspired you to bring this chapter to life and who reflect the kind of leadership you hope to foster here?

MC: Absolutely. I’ve been inspired by many women, both mentors from my New York years and peers here in Connecticut — who lead with generosity and authenticity. The women who influenced me most are those who quietly create opportunity for others, share knowledge openly, and understand that success becomes more meaningful when it’s collective.

Sheri West, founder and CEO of LiveGirl, is someone I deeply admire. Her organization’s mission is to build confident, career-ready leaders, and she approaches that work with such genuine care for the next generation of young women.

Michelle Ruiz Andrews is another person I respect immensely. She’s an incredibly accomplished journalist,

but beyond her professional achievements, I admire her thoughtfulness as a modern citizen. At a time when many hesitate to speak up, Michelle consistently uses her voice with clarity and conviction.

And Sarah Robinson has built something truly special. I’ve watched her grow her vision from the very beginning with extraordinary passion and commitment. Her energy and belief in what she’s creating are contagious, and she does it all while raising a family and parenting four children. It’s incredibly inspiring.

SY: What’s your vision for the Connecticut chapter, and what do you hope women gain from being part of it?

MC: My vision is for the Connecticut chapter to become a true hub, a place where women feel both inspired and supported, whether they’re scaling a company, exploring a new idea or simply looking for thoughtful connection.

I hope members gain tangible value, mentorship, partnerships, investment opportunities, but also something less measurable: a genuine sense of belonging. When you’re surrounded by women who understand your ambitions and truly want to see you succeed, it changes how you show up professionally and personally.

Ultimately, I want this community to help women realize they don’t have to build anything alone. The goal is connection that turns into collaboration, and collaboration that leads to lasting impact. W

SOUNDTRACK OF SUMMER

INSIDE THE LEVITT PAVILION’S CAN’T-MISS 2026 LINEUP ON THE SAUGATUCK

BY SAMANTHA YANKS

From jazz legends to jam bands and genrebending headliners, the Levitt Pavilion’s 2026 season delivers a dynamic mix of performances—making Westport’s waterfront stage the ultimate destination for live music this summer.

There are few places that define summer in Westport quite like the Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts. Set along the Saugatuck River, the open-air venue has long served as a cultural anchor and gathering place—where music, community and warm summer nights converge.

This season, the Levitt raises the bar yet again with a lineup that blends iconic names, rising talent and genre-spanning performances, reinforcing its reputation as one of the region’s most dynamic live music venues.

The 2026 season opens on a high note May 24 with a Miles Davis Centennial Celebration, honoring the enduring legacy of the jazz legend. The evening features Wilton native and acclaimed drummer Charlie Hall—best known for his work with The War on Drugs— alongside Get Up With It, setting the tone for a summer defined by artistry and innovation.

June brings a steady rhythm of standout performances. On June 11, Greensky Bluegrass takes the stage, known for blending traditional bluegrass instrumentation with rock-androll energy and improvisational depth. Just days later, the genredefying The Disco Biscuits return for a two-night residency (on the 12–13), bringing their signature “trance fusion”

sound—an electrifying mix of jam rock and electronic music— to the waterfront.

On June 23, a collaborative tour featuring G. Love, Donavon Frankenreiter and Moon Taxi promises a laid-back, genreblending evening infused with blues, folk, indie rock and unmistakable summer ease.

One of the season’s most anticipated performances arrives June 28, when Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra led by Wynton Marsalis brings its globally celebrated repertoire to Westport—an evening that underscores the Levitt’s ability to attract world-class talent.

Equally compelling is the venue’s free programming, a hallmark of its mission to make the arts accessible to all. Highlights include a June 24 performance by Son Little, the GRAMMY Award–winning artist whose work explores identity and American musical traditions, and a June 27 show by Circles Around the Sun, whose psychedelic, groove-driven sound transforms the riverfront into an open-air dance floor.

With its thoughtfully curated mix of ticketed and free performances, the Levitt Pavilion continues to offer something rare: a place where music lovers of all kinds can gather, discover and celebrate live performance in an unmatched setting.

As the season unfolds, one thing is certain, the soundtrack of summer in Westport will once again be written right here, by the water.

clockwise from top: The Disco Biscuits, Charlie’s Hall’s Get Up With It

PURPLE STATE

BY EMILY LIEBERT

Dana Perino is widely known as the co-anchor of FOX News Channel’s morning show America’s Newsroom and The Five, the most watched program in cable news. She also helms FOX News Audio’s weekly podcast Perino on Politics. And that’s not all. Dana is the No.1 bestselling author of four nonfiction books too.

Most recently, the former White House press secretary for President George W. Bush (the first female press secretary in a Republican administration) decided to turn her literary talents to the world of novel writing with her debut work, Purple State, which follows Dorothy “Dot” Clark, a buttoned-up PR professional from New York City who feels stuck in her career and her love life.

On June 23, she will be at The Westport Library in conversation with real estate investor and Chair of Westport’s Board of Finance Danielle Dobin to discuss her new book. In anticipation of this exciting event, we sat down with Dana to learn a little more.

EL: Purple State is your first novel, but your fifth book. What moved you to try your hand at fiction, specifically this story?

DP: Throughout my life, I’ve loved to read. I mostly read novels at night and on weekends, since I have to consume so much news and nonfiction for work.

I’ve always been in awe of great authors. When I finish a book I love, I’ll think, “Wow. I have no idea how they did that.”  Given this feeling, I didn’t plan to write one. However, I’d long thought of telling a story where people from different regions of the country get to know each other and through this experience realize that we’re more alike than the polarization warriors want us to believe.

I was born in Wyoming and have lived in Illinois, California, England, Washington, D.C., New York City, and New Jersey. So, I know firsthand this is true, and I thought, wouldn’t it be a great story if I took the lessons from my book Everything Will Be Okay and got the message out another way.   It took an author I deeply admire, Andrew Graff, to give me a little push. We were on a walk in Bay Head, New Jersey—I’d invited him to come stay with us while he did a book event for True North at The Little Point Bookshop—and he said, “Last night you said you have an idea for a novel. I’d love to hear it.” I demurred and said, “Oh gosh I could never write it.” He, a creative writing teacher as well, asked, “How long is the walk?” I said, “About three miles,” as I looked down East Avenue. And he replied, “Well, start talking.” About four hundred yards into my monologue, he stopped and said, “Wait. It all comes down to a gerrymandered district in Wisconsin.” Wisconsin is the

Feel Better

ultimate purple state; it flips back and forth and is considered, for now, a must-have for both parties to win the presidency.

I don’t know why, but all of a sudden it felt possible. Right there on East Avenue, I realized that my grand idea could be managed if I focused in on one place. That walk was on the first of June 2024, and I started writing the next weekend. I’ll always be so grateful to Andrew.

EL: How was the process of writing this book different from the others, and what themes from your own life played out on the page?

DP: Sometimes I look back on the last two years and think, I have no idea how I did that. I work a long day in television, and there was no time to write during the week. I kept a folder open in my notes app and as I had ideas, I’d pop them in there. On weekends, I’d do a morning walk and workout, eat breakfast and then kiss my husband Peter and say, “See you this afternoon.”

second, was too stilted, and I know, as a reader, I would have rolled my eyes and maybe even stopped reading. So I worked hard on the dialogue. Then once I got the hang of it, I had a lot of fun writing the conversations between the characters.

EL: As a woman deeply entrenched in real-world politics, do you believe that love can successfully cross-party lines, as it does in your book?

DP: I do, though I fully understand the skepticism. I believe love has a lot to do with chemistry—a spark that becomes a flame kept bright by two people committed to making a life together.

of gratitude. I really started practicing gratitude in a focused way when I worked at the White House. I made it a habit to say a prayer of thanks every time the U.S. Marine stationed at the West Wing opened the door for me. “Thank you for this opportunity, Lord. Help me not to waste a minute.”

I’d sit in an oversize chair with a pillow on my lap to raise my computer a bit, and I’d write in silence for four to five hours. When I felt stuck, I’d look at my notes app and remember something funny I’d seen in New York that week, and then I’d imagine how twenty-five-yearold women would talk about it among themselves or with the guys they meet in Wisconsin.

I have a great editor, Sean Desmond, who has been with me for all the books. He could refer back to my previous work and knew, for example, that the horrible client Dot Clark deals with in Purple State, is a story that actually happened to me. I leaned into that. And he would steer me by saying, “Here’s what needs to happen in the next five beats.”

One of the challenging things when writing a novel is getting the dialogue right. Sean had great advice. He said after you write a scene, go back and ask yourself if anyone would actually say it that way. It turned out that my first draft, and often my

I want people to see that politics might be interesting, maddening, passionate and even, at times, fun, but it doesn’t have to define who you are or what you see in other people. Sometimes the best thing to do is take politics lightly in order to be a happy, productive human. For example, politics might define a lot of what I have done in my career, yet it is absolutely not who I am. My life has been enriched by having friends from all walks of life. I really don’t care about politics as much as I care about being grateful for the time I have on earth and sharing it with the people who enrich my life.

EL: In addition to your thriving career as a television news anchor and political analyst, you also founded Minute Mentoring, a women’s leadership program designed to foster the next generation of female leaders. What inspired this pursuit and what does it mean to you?

DP: I have learned to live a life

If you’re fortunate enough to blaze a trail, people will want to know how you got there, and I felt a special obligation to reach my hand down and help others up the ladder. Though I found that in addition to career advice, many young women would ask me about living a life of purpose. And they really wanted to know how they, too, could meet someone and have a good marriage like the one I have with Peter.  While it was hard at first to write so directly to the younger generation with my best advice, I found my voice and realized there’s a hunger for more guidance. The supply and demand for mentoring is way out of whack. I can’t have coffee with everyone who asks. So, I put the lesson into books—and now into a novel— that can help me even out the gaps between the time I have to mentor and the requests for advice.

EL: What’s next for you? Is there a Purple State sequel in the future?

DP: I love Dot, Mary and Harper so much. I think about them all the time. I wish they were real people; I think we’d all be great friends. I have big plans for them and hope that everyone who reads Purple State will find out what happens next. I am very excited for where this story is going.

Tickets available at westportlibrary.org/events/

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Day & Boarding School Fair

Wednesday, May 6

6–7:30 p.m. • New Canaan Country School 635 Frogtown Rd, New Canaan, CT For a list of schools attending and to register for this free event, please visit: www.countryschool.net/school-fair-2026

THE CHAIR EVERYONE IS WAITING FOR

WITH HIS RECENT EXPANSION, BECKER CHICAIZA’S WAITLIST CONTINUES TO GROW.

BY SAMANTHA YANKS

matters.

“Nearly

two decades after arriving in Greenwich, Chicaiza has built something unusual in the salon world: a single-artist studio with an international audience and a waitlist that continues to grow.”

Nineteen years ago, when hairstylist Becker Chicaiza arrived in Greenwich, the vocabulary around color looked very different. Chicaiza had trained in techniques that were still relatively unknown in American salons, including the French balayage method he brought back from Paris. The approach favored subtlety over stripes—color painted by hand to mimic the way sunlight naturally moves through hair.

Over time, Chicaiza developed his own approach to cutting and coloring, which he calls “Twist & Texture.” The method emphasizes movement and natural dimension, combining precise cuts with freehand color placement designed to grow out seamlessly.

His work gradually attracted a devoted following. Clients now travel from across the country for an appointment in Chicaiza’s single chair, a rarity in an industry built around teams of stylists. The appointment, starting at $450, has become one of the most sought-after salon bookings in Connecticut.

Among the names who have visited the chair over the years are actors Sarah Paulson, Jennifer Aniston, Hayden Panettiere and Diane Lane, as well as fashion designer Tommy Hilfiger. On social media, videos of his technique have amassed more than a billion views, drawing a global audience curious about the process behind the results.

Chicaiza often describes his inspiration as coming from the natural world, the movement of clouds, the rhythm of waves, ideas he translates into how hair should fall and move. The goal, he says, is hair that looks as though it grew that way.

Unlike most salons, his remains intentionally small. Chicaiza works alone, handling every cut, color, and finish himself. For his regular clientele—many of whom refer to themselves as “Becker Babes,” that direct connection is part of the draw.

Earlier this year, Chicaiza made another significant move: he purchased the building that has long housed his studio. The property

at 31 Saint Roch Avenue now contains the salon on the first floor and the headquarters for his haircare brand, Be Chic, upstairs. The line focuses on clean formulations and environmentally conscious ingredients, extending the philosophy he brings to his work behind the chair.

Nearly two decades after arriving in Greenwich, Chicaiza has built something unusual in the salon world: a single-artist studio with an international audience and a waitlist that continues to grow. W Becker Chicaiza  |  31 Saint Roch Avenue, Greenwich  |  Book online.

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TOASTING TEN!

ON THE EVE OF THE BRAND’S 10TH ANNIVERSARY

KERRI

ROSENTHAL REFLECTS ON BUILDING A BRAND THE RESPONSIBLE WAY

BY SAMANTHA YANKS

“Success is building something that lasts. Something you still want to show up for every day.”

— Kerri Rosenthal

Onstage, in conversation with Kerri Rosenthal, for Startup Westport’s inaugural Founder Series at the Content Studio of Westport, what unfolded was not just the story of an artist-turnedfashion designer, it was a masterclass in intentional growth.

Ten years ago, Kerri sold a single painting. Today, she leads a fully self-funded, multi category brand with 23 employees, national wholesale accounts, high-profile collaborations and a retail presence that includes Bloomingdale’s window displays. But what defines her success isn’t scale, it’s discipline.

Slow growth.

Smart growth.

Resilient growth.

Speaking candidly about the underbelly of entrepreneurship, the missteps, the bad hires, the pivots, the daily recalibrations, Kerri offered something rarer than inspiration: clarity. She has chosen to build without outside investors. She has chosen responsible expansion over rapid acceleration. And she has chosen to define success on her own terms. Below, a refined look at our conversation.

On the Early Days

SAMANTHA YANKS: When you look back at the beginning, what did you understand about building a business — and what did you have to learn the hard way?

KERRI ROSENTHAL: In the beginning, I didn’t think of it as building a “business.” I was just making work and putting it out into the world. But once people started responding, I had to shift from artist to operator. That’s where the real education began.

The hardest lessons came through people. Hiring too quickly. Hiring out of urgency instead of alignment. I’ve had bad hires that cost time, money, and energy, but each one clarified what I value in a team. Culture matters. Integrity matters. Accountability matters. You can’t scale without them.

On Growth Without Investors

SY: You’ve built this brand without outside investment. Why was that important to you?

KR: Control. Longevity. Peace of mind.

When you take investors, you take on

timelines that may not align with your own. I wanted the freedom to grow at a pace that felt sustainable, not explosive. I didn’t want to chase growth for optics. I wanted to build something I could keep.

Being self-funded forces discipline. You think carefully. You don’t overextend. You grow when the infrastructure can support it.

On Wholesale and Big Partnerships

SY: Your brand has expanded into major wholesale accounts and collaborations. How do you approach those opportunities?

KR: Responsibly.

It’s exciting to see your work in a larger arena but every partnership carries

responsibility. You’re not just producing more product; you’re protecting your brand. I ask: Does this align with who we are? Can we execute it well? Will it stretch us in a healthy way, or strain us?

If the answer isn’t clear, we wait.

On Daily Pivots

SY: What does entrepreneurship really look like behind the scenes?

KR: It’s constant recalibration.

Every day is a pivot. Something doesn’t arrive on time. A launch underperforms. A design resonates unexpectedly. You adjust. You learn. You keep moving.

There’s no straight line. Anyone who says there is isn’t being honest.

On Knowing the Customer

SY: What has been the through-line over the last decade?

KR: I know my customer.

I understand what she responds to, emotionally and visually. That clarity makes decisions easier. When you deeply understand who you’re speaking to, you don’t chase every trend. You refine your voice instead.

On Defining Success

SY: Ten years in, how do you define success now?

KR: Sustainability. A strong team. Creative freedom.

Of course growth matters. Revenue matters. But I’m proud that we’ve built a company with 23 employees, real people whose livelihoods are tied to this brand, and we’ve done it thoughtfully.

Success is building something that lasts. Something you still want to show up for every day.

Kerri Rosenthal’s story is not about overnight scale or viral moments. It’s about measured expansion, creative conviction and the courage to say no.

In a landscape obsessed with speed, her approach feels almost radical.

Ten years in, and building for the long game.

181 Main St, Westport, CT

IG: @kerri.rosenthal

DESIGNING FOR JOY, COLOR AND REAL LIFE

CELEBRATED DESIGNER ARIEL OKIN ON HER NEW BOOK, NEW ENGLAND PROJECTS AND CREATING SPACES THAT ARE AS LIVABLE AS THEY ARE BEAUTIFUL

BY SAMANTHA YANKS

SAMANTHA YANKS: Your new book celebrates the idea of a “happy home.” What does that mean to you?

ARIEL OKIN: To me, a happy home is one that is thoughtfully laid out to facilitate the life you want to live. It showcases your personality; it’s warm, inviting, layered and collected. Most importantly, it’s without pretense and is as functional as it is beautiful.

SY: Your interiors are known for their vibrant color and layered patterns. How do you approach that balance?

AO: I love our homes to feel richly layered and detailed, without feeling too busy or noisy. When you start with the right foundations, beautiful, textured solids, crisply tailored upholstery, brush-painted millwork—the bones are a solid start. From there, you can add and layer without it ever feeling like “too much.”

SY: Can you share a bit about a few New England projects for our readers?

AO: We’re currently working on two different homes in Darien, which we are so excited about. They are both so beautiful. One is a gut renovation of a classic old brick home, and the other is a gut renovation and

addition to a historic farmhouse.

SY: Many of the homes in the book feel polished but still livable. How do you achieve that balance?

AO: I have two kids under the age of six and a half, and 99 percent of our clients are families with children and pets. I know firsthand that a beautiful home isn’t worth its salt if it isn’t livable and practical. We sit down with our clients at the outset of every project and really get to the heart of how they want to live in their homes—and where they are in their life stage at that moment. Then we build a plan not just for now, but for how they’ll grow into the space over time. The homes we design are meant to be timeless. We’re trend-agnostic, and focused on creating lasting environments where families can make memories.

SY: What are a few places that you shop locally to find items for your clients?

AO: We love Antique & Artisan in Stamford. Serena & Lily in Westport is another local favorite. We also love Eleish Van Breems and Terrain, there are so many amazing local shops. We’re lucky to be in New England with so many incredible resources right at our doorstep.

A DECADE OF DESIGN IN WESTPORT

SERENA & LILY MARKS 10 YEARS WITH A COMMUNITY CELEBRATION AT ITS ICONIC ELM STREET SHOP

BY SAMANTHA YANKS

2026 MARKS A MAJOR MILESTONE for the Serena & Lily that feels less like a corporate anniversary and more like a neighborhood fête. Ten years after opening its doors in Westport, it continues to bring together local designers, clients and community members who have shaped its story in Fairfield County.

Set within the storied Kemper-Gunn House, the shop is as much a preservation success story as it is a retail destination. Originally built in 1889, the house narrowly escaped demolition before being relocated and restored by local advocates. Today, it stands on Elm Street as a living example of how history and modern design can coexist beautifully.

Serena & Lily embraced that philosophy from the start, carefully maintaining the home’s original character. Details like the hand-carved staircase and stained glass windows remain intact, while each room has been thoughtfully designed to feel truly lived in, reflecting the brand’s signature approach to creating spaces that are both polished and personal.

“More than anything, this is a moment to thank the people who have welcomed us to the neighborhood,” says Design Shop leader Ruth Ann Davids. “It’s been a privilege to be part of so many homes here over the years, and we’re incredibly grateful for the community that has grown alongside us.”

That sense of connection is at the heart of the anniversary celebration, which will gather design enthusiasts from across the region for an evening centered on relationships as much as aesthetics.

“Since opening our doors in the Kemper-Gunn House, we couldn’t have anticipated the connection we would build with the Westport community,” adds EVP of Design Shops Allyson McGrath. “From the town’s deep shoreline history to its character-filled homes, Westport continues to inspire how we think about creating spaces that feel both personal and enduring.”

Founded in 2003, Serena & Lily has built its reputation on an optimistic, livable aesthetic defined by natural materials, a breezy palette and an emphasis on craftsmanship. Yet in Westport, the brand has found something more: a sense of place.

A decade years on, the Elm Street shop remains not just a showroom, but a reflection of the town itself timeless, welcoming and designed for living well.

WILTON’S CALM, COOL NEW GATHERING SPOT

A thoughtfully curated coffee bar, pantry, Theo’s General Store  offers beautifully edited provisions, design-forward objects and an aesthetic and atmosphere that invites you to linger.

BY SAMANTHA YANKS

In recent years, Wilton has  quietly become a destination for thoughtful design, small-batch food and community-minded retail. The town’s newest addition, Theo’s General Store, captures that spirit perfectly with a coffee bar, provisions, locally baked goods and home décor items that feel as considered as it is welcoming.

Behind the concept are Wilton locals Casey Romaine and Jacob Fisher, whose journey to opening the shop began during weekends spent visiting from Long Island City while planning their wedding in nearby Ridgefield. What started as occasional escapes soon became something more permanent when the couple discovered a historic 1774 home in Wilton. Full of character but in need of restoration, the house became a labor of love for Fisher, who took on much of the work himself.

Somewhere between renovation projects and preparing to welcome their son Theo, the couple realized something was missing from the town they had chosen to call home. They imagined a place that combined exceptional coffee, thoughtfully sourced pantry staples, and welldesigned objects for everyday living, the kind of shop they once sought out in cities, now rooted in their own community.

That vision became Theo’s General Store, named for their young son, who makes beloved appearances in the store along with all the chic stroller moms!  Inside, the shop feels calm and quietly stylish, with shelves that reflect a carefully edited approach to both food and design. Pantry staples from around the world— Japanese miso, yuzu kosho, and single-origin Mexican masa

harina—sit alongside olive oils, heirloom pastas and specialty cheeses. Fresh bread and pastries arrive daily from Fatto a Mano, while the coffee program highlights Vietnamese-sourced beans roasted by Càphê Roasters, inspired by the founders’ travels.

Beyond the provisions, the store doubles as a destination for modern home goods. Pottery from East Fork Pottery shares shelf space with the minimalist forms of Hasami Porcelain, alongside glassware by Bow Glassworks and a curated selection of cookbooks and lifestyle titles from Phaidon Press.

Despite its refined aesthetic, the spirit of Theo’s is intentionally relaxed. It’s designed as a place where locals can stop in for a morning coffee, pick up a loaf of fresh bread, browse a cookbook, or simply linger for a few minutes of calm.

Tucked just behind the building at 126 Old Ridgefield Road, the store feels slightly hidden—like a quiet neighborhood discovery. But with its thoughtful mix of coffee, provisions and beautifully made objects, Theo’s is quickly becoming exactly what its founders hoped for: a small, stylish hub for everyday life.

Wednesday-Friday: 7am-5pm; Saturday: 8am-5pm, Sunday: 8am-3pm; 126 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton, CT

Sushi Jin Turns One

by

While America hits 250 years, Sushi Jin has just passed one year—never a small feat in the restaurant business.

The establishment is a longtime ambition for Yoyo and Hiro Chen, who met working at a sushi restaurant in New York 25 years ago. “We had a dream of opening our own place that combines traditional techniques,” says Hiro, who surprised his wife with the name; “Jin” is her nickname. “We loved Westport’s vibrant community and its appreciation for high-quality, diverse dining. It felt like the perfect place.”

Entering Sushi Jin is like stepping off a busy street (actually the Bedford Square parking lot to be exact) into a serene garden in Japan. A couch in the waiting area signals that this is a place exhale and feel at home. The owners have struck the perfect balance between cozy and sophisticated, orderly and relaxed.

The ceiling in Sushi Jin is a geometric wood masterpiece, cocooning the space and dampening sound for a calming effect, which is enhanced by a Japanese tree, vibrant orchids

and exquisitely crafted wishbone chairs. An intricate wood lattice wall in the dining room, constructed using the Japanese Kumiko technique (no nails), highlights small triangular shapes that hearken back to the giant wood triangles above the entry and bar area. Overhead in the dining room: parallel pairs of timber are arranged as in a courtship dance.

With so much to take in visually, it takes a moment to turn to the menu. On it are some of Yoyo and Hiro’s favorites: Bluefin Toro, Omakase, Black Cod, Dim Sum, Duck Pancake, Wagyu Beef Dumpling. . . The vast sushi menu includes a scrumptious Westport Roll (tuna, salmon, yellowtail, whitefish, snow crab with smelt eggs, scallion, avocado and paper-thin daikon—it seems we Westporters must have it all) and a dreamy American Dream Roll (rock shrimp tempura topped with spicy crab and creamy sauce—ah, of course, fried and crabby!). The menu features an array of choices for the non-sushi eaters: StirFried Udon, Roasted Lobster, Organic Basil Chicken, plus Teriyaki and Hibachi dishes.

Dessert tantalizes the tastebuds with vanilla, strawberry or green tea Mochi Ice Cream or Chocolate Lava Cake.

Yoyo says, “Our Omakase menu is curated daily, based on the freshest available ingredients, and we strive to create a warm, intimate atmosphere where guests feel like they’re dining in our home.” They source directly from trusted fish markets in Japan. “We vet our suppliers rigorously and receive shipments multiple times a week to ensure peak freshness,” says Yoyo.

In the warm weather, guests can enjoy outdoor seating on the rooftop and in front of the restaurant. Sushi Jin hopes to open a fourseason rooftop deck in the fall.

Sushi Jin

44 Main Street, Westport, sushijinct.com

Monday to Thurday 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Two Decades of Community

Under the leadership of our Executive Director  Lori Cochran Duggan,  the Westport Farmers' Market celebrates 20 years!

by samantha yanks

On May 7, the Westport Farmers' Market will mark a milestone moment, its 20th anniversary, with an opening day celebration that reflects its roots and its future. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 50 Imperial Avenue, the market will once again transform a simple space into a vibrant community hub, culminating in a celebratory toast at noon alongside state and local leaders.

At the heart of it all is Lori Cochran Duggan, whose vision has helped shape the market into one of the most beloved institutions in the region.

“When we first started the Westport Farmers' Market 20 years ago, it was founded on a simple, but vital, mission: to connect our community directly with the food they eat and the people who grow it,” Duggan reflects. “It’s always been about more than just commerce; it’s about building a sustainable local food system and a vibrant community gathering place.”

That mission is evident the moment you arrive. Opening day promises live music, engaging “Get Growing” activities, and more than 50 local vendors offering everything from fresh produce to artisanal goods. There’s also a symbolic addition this year—a newly installed Westport Farmers' Market sign, a long-awaited project that Duggan describes as “nothing short of a miracle” to bring to life.

Over the past two decades, the market has evolved into far more than a weekly shopping destination. It has become a cornerstone of community life in Westport.

“WFM has grown into a cherished institution, we are a vibrant hub where neighbors meet, children learn where their

"Over the past two decades, the market has evolved into far more than a weekly shopping destination. It has become a cornerstone of community life in Westport."

food comes from and over 50 local vendors thrive,” Duggan says. “We foster food education and environmental awareness, support small businesses, and we celebrate being the heart of our community every Thursday.”

The anniversary, however, is not just about looking back—it’s about looking ahead. As part of the 20-year celebration, the market is preparing to launch a new initiative aimed at expanding food access and education for underserved youth in nearby Norwalk.

“Our 20th anniversary is a major milestone, and we are celebrating by looking forward,” Duggan shares. “We are thrilled to be launching a new program focused on serving inner-city kids in Norwalk. We know that through our farmers and community partners we can have a lasting impact. This new initiative demonstrates our ongoing commitment to food access and education for all, and we can’t wait to share the details.”

As the Westport Farmers' Market enters its third decade, it remains rooted in its founding purpose while continuing to grow in meaningful, impactful ways. If opening day is any indication, the next chapter will be just as vibrant as the last. W

BadAss Bagels

Beurre Creamery

Blackgirl Kimchi

Boxcar Cantina

Bubble & Brew

Calf & Clover Creamery

Cato Corner Farm

D’s Kitchen

Double A Ranch

Edgewise Kitchen, LLC

EHSTO

Farmers and Cooks

Fatto a Mano

Fifth State Distillery

Fort Hill Farm

Herbaceous Catering

Herbal Deva llc

High Ridge Hydroponics

Hoadley Hills Farm

Hungry Reaper Farm

Jackie’s Empanadas on the Go

Kneads Bakery

Lavender Hills Farm

Millies

Muddy Feet Flower Farm

New England Cider Company

New Petal Flower Farm

Nit Noi Provisions

Oceans180

Off Center Farm

Ox Hollow Farm

Parlor Pizza

Paul's Custom Pet Food

Planet Bee Apiary

Riverbank Farm LLC

Rudeboy Baking Co.

Seacoast Mushrooms

Skimchi and Seoul

Sound Coffee

Sprout Raw Juice Bar

Stonington Kelp Company

Stylish Spoon

The Hickories Farm

The Pie Society

Wave Hill Breads

WE Organics

Westport Sea Salt

Woodland Farm

Nominations being accepted in the following categories:

Most Involved in the Arts

Most Dedicated Committee Member

Outstanding Philanthropist

Outstanding Teen Volunteer

Best Friend to Children

Best Health Advocate

Lifetime Achievement

Best Friend to Seniors

Most Involved Couple

Corporate Good Neighbor

people&PLACES

An EveningInspirational

YWCA Greenwich recently hosted the eighth annual Women Who Inspire Awards at Greenwich Country Club. The Women Who Inspire Awards was established to recognize and celebrate outstanding women in our community who have excelled in philanthropic, professional and volunteer pursuits. We were extra proud this year to cheer on our very own editor, Cristin Marandino! ywcagreenwich.org W

1 (standing) Rachel Khanna, Mimi Santry, Kate Clark, Cristin Marandino, Laura Jordon, Erin Glasebrook (seated) Sara Allard, Dr. Sandra Wainwright, Susan Reynolds Lehman, Dr. Alyssa Gillego 2 Kasha Kanopka and Susan Reynolds Lehman 3 Carole Hochman, Sara Allard, Isabel Allard 4 Brynn John, Kathleen Dyke, Jonathan and Donna Moffly 5 Annie Green, Morgan Warden, Devon Mahaffy 6 Nicole Mitchell, Kirsten Lawrence, Maggie Young, Marie Rocha 7 Carolyn Reers, YW CEO Mary Lee Kiernan 8 Erin Glasebrook receiving her award from Shari Aser

3 Dr. Karen Santucci, Dr. Sandra Wainwright 4 Riona McKersie, Ambika Jha, Eloise Warden, Annie Slocum

5 Kim Jeffrey, Peter Santry 6 Victoria Williams, Ginge Cabrera 7 Wendy Stapleton, Jenna Bush Hager

8 Stephanie Kruse, Lauren Walsh, Mary Lee Kiernan 9 Elisa Wilson, Maryanne Ho Barnum 10 Jane Batkin, Amy Knox 11 Women Who Inspire, past and present

PHOTOGRAPHY VIDEOGRAPHY SOCIAL MEDIA

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money matters

BY CAROL LEONETTI DANNHAUSER

ENSURING YOUR INSURANCE

The notice arrived by mail. After insuring a Fairfield woman’s home since 1968, her homeowner’s policy would no longer be renewed, her carrier wrote. The reason? The home’s replacement cost could top $1 million, a threshold too high for the company.

The house was a little bungalow, “an old-lady house,” her son called it, with an assessment value nowhere near $1 million. No matter. Goodbye, after more than 50 years. She’d need to find a new carrier—fast. When she lined one up, her premium more than doubled, her son said, from $7000 a year to $18,000.

Here in lower Fairfield County, more and more homeowners are finding themselves in similar situations, says Livy Howard, partner at the independent broker Howard & Gay Insurance in Westport. Indeed, a recent study by the U.S. Senate Budget Committee ranked Fairfield County among the top 100 counties nationwide for insurance policy non-renewals.

“We’re seeing it at a much higher frequency than in the past 10 or 15 years,” says Howard. Homeowners with “high-value” residences, especially those with replacement costs of $1.5 million on up, are especially at risk.

While some insurers automatically pull the plug on policies, others require extensive home inspections by existing policy holders. One homeowner, also in Fairfield, received an email demanding a 20-point inspection, due in a month, or risk losing coverage when renewal time came around. The homeowner emailed dozens of photos of potential trouble spots as mandated in the email—under the sink, beside the boiler, at the electrical panels, and more, inside and outside, from

the attic to the basement.

Several weeks later, the carrier emailed back a half-dozen photos, circled in red, singled out by the company’s AI bot as issues in need of attention. Fix them and provide evidence, the company said, or lose coverage. Fortunately, the homeowner had the means to address the issues. But some changes, like replacing a roof, installing a new water heater, upgrading the electrical system, can cost tens of thousands of dollars.

“Carriers are expecting the homeowner to protect their home,” Howard says. “They’re not just saying this is something good to have. They have data that says the risk is less if you have these things. It’s protections for everyone.”

Higher-end carriers used to inspect homes they covered every 10 years. That manpower cost money, though, and some companies got a little lax on the once-a-decade visits. In the meantime, “underwriting guidelines have gotten much more strict, and home replacement costs have soared. It’s not uncommon today for the cost to rebuild your house to be

ALL CARRIERS ARE NOT ALIKE

more than the market value.”

Catastrophic casualty events, like fires and hurricanes, have made matters worse, Howard says, triggering billions of dollars in claims. All these factors have led to dropped policies or increased inspections.

“Carriers want to make sure all the premiums they’re collecting are higher than the claims,” says Howard. “They have to make a profit from their underwriting.”

What’s a homeowner to do? Be proactive. Says Howard, before any inspection notice arrives, ask your insurance broker what you might expect from your carrier and when. If your home’s value is rising, if you’re up for renewal after a decade or so of coverage, even if it’s simply been awhile since you scrutinized the anatomy and physiology of your home, find out now what your company could be looking at and address matters of potential concern now, while you have plenty of time to tackle trouble spots.

Whatever you do, if you get that notice, don’t ignore it. It’s much harder to get insurance from one carrier if you’ve already been dropped by another. W

Just because your current carrier plans to drop you does not mean another carrier won’t want your business. Different carriers cater to different markets. A carrier like Chubb, for example, won’t cut you off because your home is worth too much. They serve high-value, luxury homes — and expect you to stay on top of home maintenance. On the other hand, large discounters might not want your business if your home is worth too much; the claims might cost too much. By the same token, they’re often less vigilant about inspections. Says Howard, your broker can help you sort this all out.

Today

is owned and operated

A New Kind of Balance:

THE EVOLUTION OF THE ESTATE

At Wölffer Estate, the idea of balance has always defined the wine. Now, as consumer habits evolve, Joey Wölffer is redefining the experience itself, expanding into non-alcoholic offerings that honor tradition while embracing a more mindful way of living.

by Samantha Yanks

In the rolling hills of the Hamptons, where rows of vines stretch toward the Atlantic light, and the rhythm of the seasons defines both wine and life, Wölffer Estate has long stood as a symbol of elegance, heritage and modern sensibility. For decades, it has been synonymous with summer, rosé in hand, sunsets over the vineyard and a lifestyle that feels both aspirational and grounded.

To be fair, I know it quite well. Formerly the editor-in-chief of Hamptons Magazine, prior to moving to Connecticut and helming Westport, Weston & Wilton Magazine, I worked for years with the team at Wölffer, collaborating closely with Joey Wölffer and her husband, Max Rohn, and watching them evolve a beloved vineyard into a global brand. The journey continues for them, and now, under Joey’s vision, the estate is entering a new chapter, one that reflects not just how we drink, but how we live.

With the unveiling of Spring in a Bottle Blanc de Blancs, an alcoholremoved sparkling white wine, Wölffer Estate is embracing a cultural shift that has been quietly, and then suddenly, reshaping the wine world. This is not a departure from tradition, but rather an evolution from that heritage: an acknowledgment that balance, the very principle at the heart of great winemaking, extends far beyond the glass.

“For us, balance has always been everything,” Wölffer says. “It’s in the vineyard, it’s in the wine, and it’s in the way we approach life. This felt like a natural next step.”

THE NEW BLANC DE BLANCS joins the estate’s alcohol-removed rosé, expanding a category that until recently struggled to gain legitimacy among serious wine producers. But times have changed. Today’s consumer is more intentional, more health-conscious, and more interested in moderation without sacrificing experience. Wölffer Estate’s answer is not to dilute its identity, but to reinterpret it.

That philosophy feels particularly resonant now. The non-alcoholic market for wine, spirits and beer has expanded at a remarkable pace, driven by a growing emphasis on health, mindfulness and well-being. Industry projections estimate North America will become the most important market globally, with growth rates exceeding 8 percent. But beyond the numbers lies a cultural shift: choosing not to drink no longer means opting out. From concerts to dinners to vineyard visits, the experience remains, just redefined.

FOR WÖLFFER ESTATE, THIS MOMENT HAS BEEN DECADES IN THE MAKING.

Long before “non-alcoholic” became a fixture on wine lists and at dinner tables, the vineyard was already quietly ahead of the curve. In 1996, Wölffer introduced its Verjus, crafted by pressing unripe grapes and quickly chilling the juice to preserve its natural acidity and complexity. Bright, layered and remarkably versatile, it set a precedent for what nonalcoholic offerings could be: intentional, sophisticated and rooted in the same care as traditional wines.

From there came Petite Rosé, a sparkling, alcohol-free beverage that reimagined Verjus in a more casual, ready-to-enjoy format. Packaged in individual bottles, it brought a sense of playfulness to the category without sacrificing elegance. As writer Hannah Selinger described it, the wine is “lively, refreshing, ruthlessly charming”—a drink that invites indulgence without consequence.

THESE EARLY INNOVATIONS NOW READ AS PRESCIENT.

While many wineries are only beginning to explore non-alcoholic options, Wölffer Estate has spent nearly three decades refining its approach, developing a portfolio that now includes Spring in a Bottle, Petite Rosé and Verjus, each tapping into a different expression of the same idea: that abstaining from alcohol should never mean sacrificing taste, ritual or beauty.

That experience is evident in Spring in a Bottle, first introduced as a rosé in 2021 after extensive research by co-owner and Chief Strategy Officer Marc Wölffer. Inspired by the rapid growth of non-alcoholic wines in Europe during the pandemic, he and his team sampled dozens of options before partnering with a small, family-owned vineyard in Germany to achieve the quality they sought. The result was a breakthrough. The rosé earned praise from critics, including Florence Fabricant of The New York Times, who called it “a winner in its category,” noting its delicate floral bouquet and white peach notes, proof that complexity and balance could exist without alcohol.

NOW, WITH THE DEBUT OF THE BLANC DE BLANCS, THAT VISION EXPANDS.

Crafted from Airén grapes sourced from Spain, one of the most resilient and widely planted varietals in the world, the wine begins its life like any other carefully considered vintage. Knownforitsfresh,fruit-forwardprofile,Airén offers subtle notes of apple, citrus and soft tropical fruit, creating a clean and vibrant base. From there, the wine undergoes a meticulous process of vacuum distillation in the Moselle Valley, where alcohol is gently removed while preserving the wine’s structure, aroma and integrity.

The result is a sparkling white that feels anything but compromised. Pale yellow in hue, it opens with delicate floral notes, white peach and cantaloupe. On the palate, a fine, lively mousse carries pure fruit flavors balanced by a touch of residual sweetness. It is crisp, refreshing and unmistakably Wölffer, elegant, expressive and designed for pleasure.

above top: The Verjus, released in 1996 is made by pressing unripe grapes and quickly chilling the juice. above below: Petite Rosé is a sparkling alcohol-free beverage also made from pressing unripe grapes into a uniquely refreshing drink.

SIP AND SHOP

A SAMPLING OF WHERE WÖLFFER’S LINEUP IS AVAILABLE LOCALLY.

Take a Sip: Felice

38 Main St, Westport, CT 06880

T 475-363-4750

Grab a Tote and Shop: Ancona’s Wines & Liquors 5 River Rd, Wilton, CT 06897

T 203-210-7399

Black Bear Wines and Spirits

221 Post Rd W Ste 2, Westport, CT 06880

T 203-227-2468

Castle Wine & Spirit 1439 Post Rd E, Westport, CT 06880

T 203-259-5948

Greens Farms Spirit Shop 1250 Post Rd E, Westport, CT 06880

T 203-227-7889

Kindred Spirits and Wine 1790 Post Rd E, Westport, CT 06880

T 203-259-3939

Sipstirs

203 Danbury Rd, Wilton, CT 06897

T 203-210-7725

The Grapevine

345 Main St, Westport, CT 06880

T 203-557-8811

Yet what makes this launch particularly meaningful is not just the product itself, but where it comes from.

Wölffer Estate has long been a cornerstone of Long Island’s wine identity, helping to elevate the region into a globally recognized destination. Its success has been built not only on quality, but on a deep sense of place—sunlit vineyards, ocean breezes and a commitment to craftsmanship that honors both tradition and innovation. To see a winery with such a legacy step confidently into the non-alcoholic space signals something larger: a validation of the category from within the heart of tradition.

“The world of non-alcoholic beverages has grown vastly,” notes winemaker Roman Roth. “What’s different now is the approach, this idea of everything in moderation, without sacrificing taste.”

That distinction matters. For years, nonalcoholic wines struggled with a negative perception, often dismissed as overly sweet or lacking depth. Today, producers like Wölffer are redefining expectations, proving that the same principles that guide great winemaking, balance, structure, nuance, can exist in this space as well.

“This isn’t about replacing anything,” Wölffer explains. “It’s about adding to the experience. There are moments when you want a full glass of wine, and there are moments when you don’t, but you still want something beautiful, something celebratory.”

That philosophy resonates far beyond the vineyard. The modern definition of luxury has shifted, becoming less about excess and more about intention. It’s found in the long, unhurried lunch, the golden hour gathering, the afternoon by the pool, the multicourse dinner that unfolds over hours. These are the moments where Spring in a Bottle Blanc de Blancs finds

above: Wölffer Estate Vineyard partnered with a small family-owned vineyard in Germany to produce Spring in a Bottle, released in spring 2021.

its place. It pairs effortlessly with seafood, spicy dishes and passed hors d’oeuvres, but its true appeal lies in its versatility, equally suited to a celebration, a casual afternoon, or as the base for a thoughtfully crafted alcohol-free cocktail.

There is also something quietly radical about producing a non-alcoholic wine at a brand so steeped in tradition. It challenges the notion that innovation and heritage must exist in opposition. At Wölffer Estate, they are intertwined, each informing the other, each pushing the boundaries of what wine can be.

For Joey Wölffer, this is not just about meeting a trend; it is about shaping the future of the industry while honoring its past. About recognizing that the next generation of wine drinkers is not abandoning wine, but redefining their relationship with it.

And so, as the vines prepare for another season, and the Hamptons, just a ferry ride away, once again become a backdrop for summer rituals, Wölffer Estate offers something new. Not reinvention, but refinement. Not compromise, but balance.

In a world that increasingly asks us to choose between pleasure and wellness, Joey Wölffer is making a compelling case that we don’t have to.

Sometimes, the most elegant solution is simply to pour another glass—just a different kind.

this page:

MARTHA COMES HOME

With deep Westport ties, Martha Stewart brings her signature hospitality

to Foxwoods Resort Casino with the East Coast debut of The Bedford by Martha Stewart.

By Samantha Yanks

THERE IS SOMETHING UNDENIABLY POWERFUL ABOUT MARTHA.

In Westport, she is more than a household name. She is part of the cultural fabric of this town, a longtime Connecticut tastemaker whose aesthetic has shaped how generations entertain, garden, cook and celebrate. She has graced the cover of Westport Magazine, and her influence took root at her home on Turkey Hill.

Now, Martha Stewart brings that world to life in a new way.

The Bedford by Martha Stewart has officially just opened at Foxwoods Resort Casino, making its highly anticipated debut. The restaurant represents Stewart’s second dining concept and her first on the East Coast, a meaningful homecoming of sorts for a lifestyle icon whose roots run deep in our region.

Located inside the Grand Pequot Tower, The Bedford is inspired by Stewart’s own 1925 farmhouse in Bedford, New York. More than a restaurant, it is an immersive extension of her personal aesthetic, refined yet welcoming, elegant yet grounded in comfort. The design nods to her home’s architecture and gardens, while the menu reflects dishes she has perfected and served for decades.

Guests can expect Martha’s signature Kurobuta Pork Chop, a classic Niçoise Salad and her beloved Big Martha Pierogies, recipes that feel both elevated and nostalgic. Cocktails carry her unmistakable imprint as well, from the perfectly chilled Martha-tini to the frozen pomegranate Martha-rita. Ingredients are locally sourced whenever possible, reinforcing Stewart’s long-held commitment to quality and seasonality.

The opening follows the success of “Christmas by Martha Stewart,” a holiday installation that transformed the Grand Pequot Lobby into a showcase of her signature festive style.

That collaboration offered a preview of what happens when Martha’s meticulous eye meets the scale and energy of Foxwoods. The Bedford feels like the natural next chapter.

For those in Westport and beyond, the restaurant offers more than dinner reservations—it offers a reason for a getaway. Foxwoods has long positioned itself as the Northeast’s premier resort destination, with nearly 2,000 hotel rooms, expansive gaming floors, Tanger Outlets shopping and headline entertainment. An evening at The Bedford can easily become a weekend escape: dinner, a show, perhaps a spa appointment the next morning.

There is a certain brilliance to this pairing. Martha Stewart, the authority on gracious living, aligning with a resort built on experience. It speaks to her enduring evolution, from publishing pioneer to multimedia mogul to restaurateur, while reinforcing her Connecticut connection.

The Bedford will serve breakfast and dinner daily, with lunch offered Fridays through Sundays. Dinner reservations are now open.

For Westport readers who have followed Martha’s journey for decades, this opening feels both celebratory and fitting. She has always understood the art of gathering, how a beautifully set table can transform an evening into an occasion.

Now, just a short drive from home, she invites us to gather again.

Th e Goo d Lif e

Seize the summer with new and niche finds in Fairfield County

BY JILL JOHNSON MANN

From Pilates to saunas,

mahjong getaways to retail therapy, restaurant openings to decadent desserts, free therapy to family fun— dig into our annual list of new or unusual must-know ways to squeeze every last drop out of the juicy good life in our area. Granted, our goodness cup runneth over around here, so this is most likely an impossible goal. But, hey, can’t hurt to try!

Kudos to our team of friends and editors for sharing all the scoop on their favorite ways to get fit, pursue wellness, shop for the coolest clothes and most unique gifts, eat and drink with abandon, keep their kids engaged and bring their families joy. »

We are an active bunch here in Fairfield County, and, fortunately, should we have short attention spans and an antsy nature, the fitness gurus are constantly finding ways to keep working out effective and energizing. Really big this year is rolling wellness into fitness. Out with “no pain, no gain” and in with “no pain (OK, maybe a little pain) and a whole lot of feeling good.”

FIND YOUR

FIT

Athleto Pilates

261 Danbury Road, Wilton 340 Grasmere Avenue, Fairfield 203-210-5161

athletostudios.com

Athleto Pilates offers a free intro class for Pilates newbies and $19 price for those who have reformer experience but have yet to experience the Balanced Body Studio equipment at Athleto’s two Fairfield County locations. If you love it, there are class packs, monthly memberships and private options, plus discounted fees for teens. Beginner/intermediate/ advanced level classes are available as well as focuses on particular areas, like Core and Legs Reformer Sculpt. Pilates promises to strengthen the body and improve both posture and athletic performance.

Core Burn Pilates

24 Elm Street, Greenwich 203-914-4433

coreburnpilates.com/greenwich

779 North Street, Greenwich 475-897-1096

coreburnpilates.com/northgreenwich

142 Elm Street, New Canaan 203-829-3834

coreburnpilates.com/new-canaan

165 Rowayton Avenue, Rowayton 203-344-1844

coreburnpilates.com/rowayton

12 Elm Street, Westport 203-919-1239

coreburnpilates.com/westport

“Core Burn Pilates Greenwich gets— and deserves—a lot of my fitness spend,” says one of our in-the-know friends. “Kristin, the owner, is fierce to train with. My body would not be the same without the 10-plus years I’ve spent training with Core on a biweekly basis.” Classes are available by level, from Foundations to Advanced, with a variety of choices like Tone & Sculpt, Tower and Cardio Jumpboard. Look for the fire icons by the class listings to anticipate just how much burn you’re gonna feel! Privates, duets and trios are also available for a more customized approach.

Countdown Fitness

409 Greenwich Avenue (2nd floor), Greenwich; 203-594-6684

25 Sylvan Road South (Suite R), Westport; 203-593-6684 countdownfit.com

Countdown Fitness founder Anel Dzafic has trained 400 clients, from kids to NBA/NFL players to 90-yearold tough cookies. He uses a slow lifting approach, which increases the muscles’ workload and reduces injury risk. Anel is a certified holistic health coach who offers nutrition and weight loss guidance, as well as expertise in lower back pain, osteoporosis, pre- and post-natal fitness and golf conditioning. One of our local fitness gurus offers this rave: “Countdown Fitness is amazing. It’s 30 minutes once a week with a private trainer— not a second is wasted, and I swear if it were 32 minutes I would die! It’s the hardest 30 minutes of my week and completely transformative.”

Jetset Modern Pilates

25 Old Kings Highway North (Unit 6), Darien jetsetpilates.com/ct/darien

520 Post Road East, Westport jetsetpilates.com/ct/westport

Jetset Modern Pilates is touching down in Darien and Westport soon, bringing 50-minute dynamic Pilates sessions with Jetset’s signature choreography and curated DJ playlists. Sessions balance strength, flexibility and endurance. Classes are designed for all levels, with skilled instructors guiding the way. Class

and private options include Reformer, Fundamentals, Upper + Core, Lower + Core and On the Mat. The founder, Tamara Galinksy, transformed her post-baby body in nine months with Pilates. You can, too.

Recess Performance Club

1276 Post Road East, Westport recess.fit

Trainer to the stars Eric Johnson is right here and ready to give you the same insider fitness tips he

shares with celebrities like Scarlett Johansson and Andrew Garfield. The club offers private, semiprivate and group classes to sculpt your optimal summer bod. Recess augments its fitness offerings and improves recovery with an infrared sauna with red light therapy in a private suite. Pair that with a coldwater plunge to reduce muscle inflammation, improve circulation, boost mood and build resilience.

Rhoswyn Wellness

196 Danbury Road, Wilton 203-284-7151; rhoswynwellness.com

With the opening of Rhoswyn Wellness, the first hot yoga studio in Wilton, the town is heating up! Founded by couple Anna Louise Williams and Jerry Griffin, the studio offers yoga (from gentle to power, warm to hot), Pilates, meditation, Qi Gong and more. Prenatal classes, Family Flow and kindergarten-through-teen programs bring out the yogi in every age. Sound healing, meditation, reiki and pranayama workshops and Full Moon Sacred Circles offer more options for finding serenity in this community-minded space. »

Core Burn Pilates, Rowayton

The Barn

Fairfield, CT hello@welcometothebarn.com welcometothebarn.com

Energy healer and guide Courtney Henggeler invites you to The Barn, “a sanctuary for deep realignment” through reiki, guided sessions to reconnect with your true self, and donation-based events like astrology workshops. This is a place for softening the nervous system, opening the heart and reconnecting to “clarity, confidence and a sense of inner wholeness.” Book a session on the website, and start shedding that Fairfield County armor.

SUMA Life House

146 Sound Beach Avenue, Old Greenwich 203-524-8000 sumalifehouse.com

SUMA Life House founder Kristin Updike discovered the transformative power of integrative treatments while undergoing a double mastectomy in 2020. Her journey inspired her to create a center that brings modern science, aesthetics and wellness together under one roof, catering to those looking for a longer and more beautiful life. It feels luxurious— but the prices aren’t. The staff is knowledgeable, flexible and thorough. A cozy and chic Hyperbaric Chamber, Red Light Bed, IV Therapy, Emsculpt NEO (which uses radio-frequency energy to target fat and electromagnetic energy to tone muscle), Exion Body (for skin tightening), facial treatments, microneedling—these are just a handful of the miracle treatments awaiting you at SUMA.

The Current Wellness

135 East Putnam Avenue, Greenwich 1063 Hope Street, Stamford 203-665-8985 thecurrentwellness.com

The Current debuted at Stamford Twin Rinks and is now bringing its “one-hour brain and body vitality ritual” to Greenwich. The unique approach to exercise incorporates three phases: standing on a vibration platform and bathing in red-light therapy to calm and prepare the body and mind; a 25-minute, coach-led contrast oxygen training session (think: hyperbaric oxygen session meets cardio workout); and then sitting around a BioCharger that emits light and energy in optimal frequency and voltage for maximizing recovery, circulation, cellular repair and clarity. The session is personalized so all levels feel comfortable—and everyone walks out revitalized.

THE BRAIN GAME

A smart mental workout

Blue Sparrow Mahj

From Fairfield County to Italy 415-298-9498

bluesparrowmahj@gmail.com themahjongline.com

Mahjong is all the rage, and Stephanie Kruse, founder of Blue Sparrow Mahj, is drawing a following with her expert lessons. This game, which originated in 19th-century China, is just the antidote to brain-numbing, isolating screen time. Better yet, she is upping the game with a “Mahjong in Tuscany” getaway, October 18 to 23. Kruse offers this enticing invite: “I’m hosting a retreat for 14 lucky people in our own private villa in the hills of Val D’Orcia in Tuscany. We’ll travel to Siena and Pienza and enjoy a cooking class and historical tours of the region. Each evening, enjoy Mahjong happy hour with guided play or lessons before a chef-catered meal.” Kruse has partnered with Duende Retreats, a woman-owned travel company she swears by. Book your spot: duenderetreats.com/retreats/ mahjong-tuscany

MOOD BOOST

A healthy mind starts with the right support New Canaan YMCA – Private Counseling

564 South Avenue, New Canaan 203-966-4528 newcanaanymca.org/ counseling-at-the-y

In partnership with the Jewish Family Services (JFS) of Greenwich Bennett Center for Behavioral Health, the New Canaan YMCA is offering private counseling—with no YMCA membership required. Therapy sessions for individuals, couples and families (ages six through adulthood) are held in a private, welcoming space in the Y’s facility. All major insurance plans are accepted. An intake form is accessible via the website.

SAUNAS ARE HOT

Saunas are on the hot list, with a wide range of health benefits hitting the public’s awareness, including the latest: a decreased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s with regular sauna use. A reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke and high blood pressure; improved circulation, sleep and skin health; faster recovery after workouts; reduced stress and an immune system boost are other reasons sweating it out is all the rage.

HIDEOUT

1 Blachley Road (Suite 102), Stamford hideoutsocial.club

Connecticut’s first sauna and coldplunge club gives a clean twist on the term "clubbing." This community-based sauna club was inspired by founder Ryan Linner’s trip to Norway, where he discovered that plunging into a freezing fjord and then stepping into a sauna made him feel deliciously alive. Norway’s sauna culture got him thinking: “What if I could recreate the energy of a vibey outdoor brewery—the music, the people, the buzz—just built around health instead of hangovers?”

In partnership with Chelsea Piers Stamford, Linner made it happen. Guests can enjoy a custom-made Finnish (dry) Sauna, fire pits and cold plunges, all in a social setting that makes them feel like the cool kids at the hottest club in town.

KIIN SAUNA

Fairfield and mobile service kiinsauna.com

How about having a beautiful, handcrafted wood-burning sauna and cold plunge tub brought to your door or event? KiiN Sauna’s mobile service makes contrast therapy easily accessible and personalized. KiiN offers two-hour in-home sessions for up to 28 people with towels and herbal tea service. KiiN also offers half-day and full-day retreats and holds events with partner venues and at local beaches. Owner Ginger Richardson says, “I founded KiiN Sauna out of a love for simple, intentional rituals and a belief that healing happens when we reconnect with what’s real—heat, cold, breath, nature and one another.”

TYDE HAUS

11 Pine Point Road, Norwalk 971-803-1361

tydehaus.com

Tyde Haus promises “a sanctuary of warmth by the sea” where guests can channel a Finnish sauna experience right on Bayley Beach in Rowayton. A shared space for eight overlooking the Sound is perfect for a bonding and wellness-boosting outing with family or friends. Guests dip in the Sound between sauna sessions. For unlimited sessions and VIP booking access, buy a membership for $220 a month. Private sessions are available with add-on perks to make your event extra special. Tyde Haus has been known to offer sound bath sauna sessions, so keep an ear out for that. »

DIG IN

New dining options are popping up so fast that there aren’t enough meals in a day! Juicy smashburgers, Mediterranean specialties, Italian feasts, plantbased menus, the very best chicken nuggets, pizza galore, plus delish desserts and inventive beverages— be sure to eat before perusing this section, or you’re gonna get drool all over your magazine.

Dandelion

Delamar Hotel, 1595 Post Road East, Westport 203-266-3111; dandelionwestport.com

HOURS: Mon.–Thurs. 5 to 9 p.m., Fri. 5 to 10 p.m., Sat. 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5 to 10 p.m., Sun. 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5 to 9 p.m.

The health and mental health benefits of the Mediterranean diet keep making headlines, so indulging at this new Mediterranean-inspired restaurant at the stylish Delamar Westport hotel is doctor’s orders. From GHG Restaurant Collection (Artisan, La Plage, l’escale) and set amid designer Christian Siriano’s interiors, Dandelion marries flavor and atmosphere in a happy union. The evening bar scene is sexy, so skip the train ride to New York. Brunch includes a Kids Corner menu and an array of unique options that will have your taste buds battling it out between breakfast or lunch. A Greek yogurt parfait or spanakopita? A Mediterranean omelet or oysters? Fattoush salad or steak and eggs?

Doppio

62 Main Street, New Canaan 203-594-1360; eatdoppio.com

HOURS: Mon.–Sun. 4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Doppio has been wining and dining in Greenwich since 2011, and now

New Canaan is joining in on the feast. The interior has a casual chic vibe, and white-tableclothed outdoor tables along the red-brick alley feel quaint and refreshing. The menu features Doppio favorites like tuna tartare and crispy artichokes to start, a range of pizza in the red (“Rosse”) and white (“Bianche”) categories and the bestselling rigatoni alla vodka with a spicy kick. Seasonal specials, like shaved artichoke salad, are determined based on the best available local ingredients. A thoughtful wine list, creative cocktails and cold beer give plenty of options for washing down a scrumptious meal.

Felice

38 Main Street, Westport 55 Abendroth Ave, Port Chester 474-363-4750; 914-786-5500; felicerestaurants.com

HOURS: Mon.–Thurs. 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Fri. 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (brunch) and 4 to 11 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (brunch) and 4 to 10:30 p.m.

The first Felice location in Connecticut fills the former Mexicue space in Westport. This Italian favorite debuted on the Upper East Side and is so popular that 13 locations have opened since, one just over the border in Port Chester. On the menu are dishes rooted in Tuscan tradition and prepared with seasonal ingredients, complemented by Italian imports that honor the restaurant’s culinary heritage. The copious options promise to satiate like Sunday dinner at your Italian gramma’s house. The wine list is curated with care, featuring selections from small-production organic and biodynamic labels. Or choose a crafted cocktail like a Bloody Maria, Mezcalita or Amalfi Spritz. »

Doppio's octopus with watermelon, fennel, feta and herbs

Joylark Plant Kitchen & Bar

260 Post Road, Fairfield 475-999-8491; joylarkkitchen.com

HOURS: Sun.–Thurs. 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

One of our Good Life spies makes a weekly visit to sample the plantbased recipes of Joylark’s talented chef: Oysters and Grits, Cauliflower Parm, Cornflake Potatoes,

POP

-

Mushroom Magic Avocado Toast and brunch faves like Marzipan Apple French Toast, Lemon Cream Pancakes, Smothered Breakfast Burrito and Blueberry Chai Oatmeal. There’s a kids’ menu for the Little Larks and a wide array of inventive cocktails, hard (and soft) smoothies, kombucha, beer, wine, juices and specialty teas and lattes. A beautiful and elevated setting sets Joylark apart from the more casual take-out or cafeteria-like vegetarian spots in the area.

Lombardi's Ristorante & Bar

32 Elm Street, New Canaan 203-594-1209; lombardinc.com

HOURS: Sun.–Wed. 5 to 9 p.m., Thurs.–Sat. 5 to 10 p.m.

From the owners of Dolci Cafe, Lombardi opened last summer on Elm Street, bringing a whiff of Ischia, Italy, to town. That’s where brothers Andrea and Daniel

Lombardi grew up, so they know a thing or two about Italian cuisine. The menu features classic, simple Italian dishes, plus specialties with a modern twist. Antipasti, insalate, fresh homemade pasta and seafood and meat entrees are served in a welcoming setting, for an authentic Italian experience. Refreshing cocktails (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), fine wines and beer will please all patrons. Several private rooms, one with its own bar, cater to parties of 14 to 48.

IN PICKS

Perfect spots for lunch runs, takeout nights and spur-of-the-moment cravings

7TH STREET BURGER

2000 West Main Street, Stamford 7thstreetburger.com

New York’s beloved 7th Street Burger hits Stamford’s ShopRite Plaza with “delicious ingredients, smashed to perfection.” The menu is streamlined to bring you only the best cheeseburgers, spicy jalapeño cheeseburgers, loaded beef fries and a spicy jalapeño version of them, too. Vegetarians aren’t left out, with Impossible cheeseburger options and fries with a kick or not. This news is so hot off the grill that an official opening date hasn’t been announced yet, but expect to be biting into a juicy burger some time in 2026.

CHERRY STREET PROVISIONS

149 Cherry Street, New Canaan 203-594-7447 cherrystreetcheese.com

HOURS: Tues.–Sat. 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Jo and Stephen Bloom are committed to bringing the best farmstead cheeses from around the world, handsliced meats and artisan gourmet products to your table. Whether you’re looking for a decadent charcuterie platter or the nostalgic flavor of a delectable grilled cheese sandwich paired with homemade tomato soup, this neighborhood cheesemonger aims to please. Serious

about your cheese? Join the shop’s Cheese Club and receive three artisan cheeses from around the globe, along with educational information about your cheeses and how they were made. You will also receive special pantry items, early access to events and 10 percent off all purchases.

PIE PATROL

FRANK PEPE PIZZERIA NAPOLETANA

The newest pizza destinations worth scouting for your next slice

361 Post Road West, Westport pepespizzeria.com

No one has pizza like New Haven. Except now we do. In addition to the locations in Stamford and Fairfield, Fairfield County is gaining another Pepe’s in Westport this summer. Expect charred, chewy, crispy, coal-fired “Apizza,” just like Frank Pepe invented in 1925, cooked in a coal-fired oven.

SOHO PIZZA

22 Riverside Avenue, Westport

If rumors are right, you just might be able to bite into a SoHo Pizza slice in Westport by the time this mag hits newsstands. Owner Pablo Bolanous is bringing NY-style pizza, pasta and paninis to an 1,100 square-foot space next to Sunny Daes ice cream—so you can fulfill all your cravings in one stop.

EMMY SQUARED PIZZA

48 Greenwich Avenue, Greenwich emmysquaredpizza.com

What do you get when you take a New-York-style grandma pie and cross it with a Detroit-style slice, plus throw in fluffy focaccia-like dough and caramelized crispy cheese edges? You get Emmy Squared Pizza, which was born in Williamsburg in 2011 and is so good that it has spread to 26 locations with the newest coming to Grenwich. Emmy Squared kills it in the doublestack burger department, too. Le Big Matt has been named a top burger in NYC and Nashville.

GARDEN CATERING

320 Height Road, Darien 203-679-7111; gardencatering.com

HOURS: Mon.–Fri. 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sat. 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sun. 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Garden Catering, established in 1978, has a cult-like following. The newest location in Darien joins the Stamford and Old Greenwich outposts, bringing instant gratification to those looking to satisfy a comfort-food craving. The menu includes the famous hand-cut chicken nuggets made with antibioticfree, all-white-meat chicken breast, golden potato cones, fries, mac bites and corn fritters. Need gluten-free? No problem. And vegans can enjoy awesome cauliflower nugs.

NATURAL KITCHEN

5 River Road (Studio 9), Wilton 203-210-5115 naturalkitchenwilton.com

HOURS: Mon–Sat. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sun. 12 to 9 p.m.

Poké fans will be psyched for Natural Kitchen’s arrival in Wilton. Enjoy madeto-order meals: bold signature poké bowls (with Natural Kitchen’s own secret seasoning), sushi rolls, bubble tea, smoothies, milkshakes, six different non-alcoholic mojito drinks, plus ice cream and cake to top it all off. Stop in for a quick lunch, weeknight takeout or a snack on the run, and get a taste of Hawaii and Hawaiian hospitality right here in Fairfield County.

WONDER

1131 High Ridge Road (Suite 3A), Stamford wonder.com

HOURS: Sun.–Sat. 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.

Wonder has spread across the East Coast, and Stamford is the next lucky spot. It’s a wondrous concept—all of your favorite restaurant foods under one roof. No one can agree on where to order from? Wonder is the answer. Yasas, Alanza Pizza, SriPraPhai, Burger Baby, Bellies, Happy Tuna, Tejas Barbecue, The Mainstay, Streetbird, LimeSalt, Bobby Flay Steak, Pop Salad … the list goes on. Multiple restaurant cuisines, one location. »

SUGAR RUSH

Afew

CRUMBL

newcomers—andacoup

leunder

1131 High Ridge Road, Stamford 475-477-9499; crumblcookies.com

HOURS: Mon–Thurs. 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sat. and Sun. 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Enjoy cookies, pies and cakes in a weekly rotating menu of over 300 flavors! In-store pickup, delivery and catering options.

FLOUR WATER SALT BREAD

1215 Post Road, Fairfield flourwatersaltbread.com

HOURS: Tues.–Sat. 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. (or until sold out)

Flour Water Salt Bread has added a location in Fairfield (in addition to New Canaan, Darien and Greenwich). Sure, the sourdough is the staple, but there are plenty of sweets for your delight: croissants, pain au chocolate, cinnamon rolls, cardamom buns, coffee cake, cookies and more.

MAGNOLIA BAKERY

Stamford magnoliabakery.com

Magnolia Bakery hit the mainstream via Carrie and Miranda in Sex and the City back in 2000, so it has taken a mere 26 years for its scrumptious pastel cupcakes

LEFT: Miyki white chocolate raspberry cookie RIGHT: Rosie's blueberry and apple muffins

and famous banana pudding to find a home in Connecticut. Run by Stamford’s own Kelly Fitzpatrick, Magnolia is expected to open this summer or fall in an undisclosed but soon-to-be-swarming spot!

MILKSHAKE FACTORY

1109 High Ridge Center (Unit #10), Stamford 203-514-0889; milkshakefactory.com

HOURS: Mon.–Sun. 12 to 10 p.m.

BELOW: Magnolia Bakery cupcakes

Handspun milkshakes are made with homemade ice cream in flavors like Campfire S’mores, Chocolate Cake Shake, Cookie Jar, Raspberries & Cream, Salted Caramel Pretzel and Mint Chip—yum! Dairy-free varieties are available. Pair your shake with some gourmet chocolate for double the indulgence.

MIYUKI ( PINE STREET CONCESSIONS )

75 Pine Street, New Canaan 203-920-1552; miyukisnoodleshop.com

HOURS: Tues.–Sat. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Miyuki’s ’s Noodle Shop got a shout-out for their “incredible cookies.” Tables are available on a walk-in basis to enjoy Miyuki’s rice and noodle bowls as a starter to your cookie course.

MOMU

575 Riverside Avenue, Westport momuicecream.com

HOURS: Wed.–Thurs. 2 to 9 p.m., Fri. 2 to 10 p.m., Sat. 1 to 10 p.m., Sun. 1 to 9 p.m.

The Muñoz and Moreno team behind Laurel opened MOMU this past spring in Westport. The ice cream is churned daily with local ingredients. The owners’ favorite flavors are Mud, Quince, French Toast and Butter Pecan. Want to share the love? Enlist MOMU’s ice cream cart for your next party or event.

ROSIE

27 Elm Street, New Canaan 203-966-8998; rosienewcanaan.com

HOURS: Tues.–Sat. 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Rosie’s got an editor shout-out specifically for their giant muffins. If you don’t have a sweet tooth and are along for the ride, Rosie’s menu will seduce you, one way or another. Perhaps you’ll choose to sip a Señorita I Feel for You libation of fresh muddled mint, cucumber, lime, agave and Rosie’s famous mix.

POUR DECISIONS

New spots and clever sips that are stirring up the local drink scene

ELM

73 Elm Street, New Canaan 203-920-4994; elmrestaurant.com

HOURS: Mon.–Fri. 11:30 a.m. to close, Sat.–Sun. 11 a.m. to close (Afternoon Tea: Fri.–Sat. 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.)

One of our editors suggested afternoon tea at Elm, which of course is much more than just a sipping situation. Enjoy scones with preserves and clotted cream, cucumber tartines, mini lobster rolls and decadent desserts whose names will make you salivate: Citrus Almondine, Coffee-Soaked Opera Cake, Raspberry Cheesecake …

SUNNY

sipasunny.com

This new brand out of New Canaan brings you seltzer with no sugar, no calories and an “added ray of sunshine”—a microdose of THC to be exact. You won’t taste the cannabis, and you won’t feel a hangover either, but you will feel a refreshing calm. Sunny drinkers describe a “light buzz” with a rapid onset in around 15 minutes that slowly builds then tapers off after 90 minutes or so.

QAHWAH HOUSE

65 Broad Street, Stamford qahwahhouse.com

Eight generations of Yemeni coffee farming are behind Qahwah House. The coffeehouse's first Connecticut location is coming to Stamford this summer. The Sana’ani is a medium roast with cardamom and the Jubana delights with spiced cardamom, ginger and cinnamon. Other options abound: Iced Pistachio Latte? Yes, please! Traditionalists will find plenty of Americano, espresso, cappuccino and mocha options. The café will also sell coffee beans and exotic Arabic dellah pots to bring Yemeni flavor home.

THE THIRSTY COW

203-952-8626

Instagram: @thethirstycow203

How about a mobile dirty soda bar for your next party? “I create custom dirty sodas using layered flavors, syrups, creams and fun twists that turn a simple drink into a true taste adventure,” says founder Nadia Cossuto. How about a Cheesecake Swirl, with Dr. Pepper, cheesecake, strawberry and vanilla foam? Feeling sleepy? The Buzzed Heifer combines Redbull, strawberries and white chocolate foam. To get in beach mode, The Islander is a mix of Sprite, coconut, pineapple and Half & Half. The mobile bar is familyfriendly, interactive and sure to be a gathering spot and conversation starter wherever it pops up. »

THE KID ZONE

ABOVE: Get up close and personal with some furry and feathered

Family time doesn’t have to mean another movie night on the couch. There are plenty of ways to get everyone out of the house—whether that means meeting animals up close, racing go-karts, sailing the Sound or gazing at the stars in a planetarium.

Earthplace LIVE ANIMAL STORYTIME

10 Woodside Lane, Westport 203-557-4400

earthplace.org

Every morning, Monday through Saturday, at 10:30 a.m., Earthplace in Westport shares an animal-themed story with a special guest: one of its many Animal Hall cute critters. For children age five and under.

Southport

914-216-8057

goldilocksfarmsanctuary.com

This adorable farm in Southport, complete with a chandelier in the barn, will wow even the most entitled wee-one with bunny or pony parties and animal cuddles galore. Goldilocks can bring the party to you. (Dads are sure to be all over the Beer Burro option, a miniature donkey to deliver their drinks.) Oh, and the place isn't just cute, it has heart, too—the sanctuary rescues animals. Want to help or teach your kids how they can? Visit the site to sponsor an animal.

Island Mike Sailboat Charters

50 Water Street, Norwalk 203-856-4409

island-mike.com

There’s no better way to seize a summer day than with the wind in your hair on Island Mike’s 52-foot custom-built sailboat, Eagle. The kids will be off their screens and in awe of nature. Set sail from Norwalk for a daytime, sunset or all-day cruise, with prices starting at $600 for four people for four hours ($800 for six people).

RPM Stamford

Kart Klash

600 West Avenue, Stamford 203-323-7223

rpmraceway.com

This new immersive go-kart racing experience brings video-game action onto the actual track! Drivers use not just speed but strategy to outsmart their opponents with missiles, shields, EMP’s and turbos. Don’t know what that means? The kids will, and they’ll think you’re the coolest parent ever for giving them this opportunity. Must be eight years old and a minimum of 48 inches tall. (Kids and adults race in separate categories.)

Stamford Diner GUEST CHARACTERS ON TUESDAY NIGHTS

135 Harvard Avenue, Stamford 203-348-7000

stamforddiner.com

Stamford Diner knows how to turn family dinner into the event of the week. Every Tuesday night from 6 to 7 p.m., a guest character is on hand to entertain the kiddos: Peppa Pig, Bluey, Elmo, Pikachu … “It’s super fun!” says our family-fun sleuth, but she warns, “You must make a reservation. The place is packed!”

Stamford Museum and Nature Center

PLANETARIUM

39 Scofieldtown Road, Stamford 203-977-6521

stamfordmuseum.org

The Stamford Museum and Nature Center has opened its breathtaking Planetarium and Astronomy Center, with shows for all ages. A cinematic Sesame Street adventure called “One World, One Sky” will appeal to the youngest star gazers with a 45-minute show multiple times per week. The Friday-evening showing of “Stamford Skies” at 7 p.m. includes access to the observatory after the show. There are also 2 p.m. shows Wednesday through Sunday. For the older teens and Gen X’ers, there’s “Dark Side of the Moon” on Fridays at 9 p.m. (with Observatory access before the show at 8 p.m.).

Experience the Pink Floyd album like never before with a choreographed laser show.

Totsy Turvy

101 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton 203-763-1763

totsyturvycafeandplay.fun

Playspace for the kids, café for the parents? Win, win. Young ones up to age seven enjoy open-ended play while caregivers can look on and connect over a cup of coffee, cappuccino, latte, mocha, chai tea, matcha or green tea—iced or hot, but always chill. Paninis, baked goods and smoothies round out the menu. And look, the kids are still having a ball! The Totsy Turvy Snackcuterie features a bunch of healthy options when tots need to refuel.

The Ballet Studio 229 students who will be dancing at “Carnival of the Animals” with the Ridgefield Conservatory of Dance and Ridgefield Symphony at the Ridgefield Playhouse on June 6 and 7. The Sunday 11 a.m. show is a sensory-friendly performance, which has been a long standing goal of Christina Fagundes

CURTAIN CALL

Private coaches helping young dancers, actors and musicians find their rhythm

BALLET STUDIO 229

PRIVATE BALLET INSTRUCTION

229 Valley Road, New Canaan studio229@optonline.net balletstudio229.com

Mikhail Baryshnikov himself invited Christina Fagundes into the American Ballet Theatre company during her illustrious career as a prima ballerina. Now she shares her skills with students in her private ballet studio in New Canaan. Christina’s approach is precise but gentle. Her passion for her art is infectious, and her laser focus is, too.

JAMIE MANN

PRIVATE ACTING, DANCE AND VOCAL COACHING

jamiemartinmann@gmail.com jamiemartinmann.com

Fresh off his Broadway debut in Stranger Things: The First Shadow (and his Westport mag cover), Jamie Mann is available to train your budding Broadway hopefuls, in person in the Westport area (or New York City) or on Zoom. (Wait, didn’t his mom write this article? Yes, but she swears he’s the real deal.)

JIM JACOBY PIANO & MUSIC

PRIVATE PIANO LESSONS

203-526-5261

jimjacoby.com

Jim Jacoby has more than 20 years of experience teaching piano to students of all ages and instilling the love of music. He teaches both in person and on Zoom and makes lessons a joyful experience. He will travel to your home, from Fairfield to Darien. W

Who doesn’t need a little retail therapy on a rainy—or sunny, or cloudy, or windy or partially sunny—day? Here is our shortlist of shops to check out for fashion (for men, women and the little ones), gifts, scents, home decor and more.

HOURS: to 6 p.m., Sun. 12 to 5 p.m.

Haute Haul Gray Clothier

Sometimes the men get neglected when it comes to shopping, but not at Gray’s Clothier. One friend commented, “Gray’s men’s shop is pretty fantastic. I shop there for gifts—great prices and options.”

Whether browsing for casual wear, golf attire, business casual with flair, blazers or button-ups, Gray’s has the stylish guy covered.

Hill House Home

117 Greenwich Avenue, Greenwich 203-962-1311 hillhousehome.com

HOURS: Mon.–Sat. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sun. 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Hill House Home has opened in downtown Greenwich, adding to its list of stylish locales like Nantucket, New York City, Palm Beach and Charleston. Founder Nell Diamond dreamed of “making happy things for happy places,” and her delicate, high-quality designs are doing just that. Think: sundresses in cheery floral patterns, cute tops, stylish jackets, coveted short dresses and soft and sophisticated pajamas. The sweet baby and toddler outfits will tempt you to have another.

Hope & Joy

95 Reef Road, Fairfield 203-208-8317 findinghopeandjoy.com

HOURS: Mon.–Fri. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Hope & Joy brings a carefully curated, cheerful mix of gifts, home and decor, apparel, accessories and paper goods to brighten up every day. Plus there's a party shop and monogrammed options for personalized presents for birthdays, teachers, graduates and brides-to-be. Everything here is fun, affordable and useful. Check out the array of travel totes and cases to make your next trip the most fun to pack for yet. The site allows you to search for “Gifts Under $25/$50/$100.” A cute selection of baby-shower gifts streamlines your decision-making process.

Reformation

272 Greenwich Avenue, Greenwich 203-350-7396 thereformation.com/stores/greenwich

HOURS: Mon.–Sat. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sun. 12 to 5 p.m. Eco-chic retail hits the Ave. with the opening of Reformation’s first Connecticut boutique. Priding itself on its mission to clothe you in sustainable fashion, Ref Greenwich is the environmentally friendly place to shop and look ultra cool, too. Reformation states: “Since 2009, we’ve been on a mission to bring sustainable fashion to everyone. And we aren’t stopping there. By 2025, we’ll be climate positive. By 2030, everything we make will be part of a circular fashion system.” This is a fashion parade you want to join.

The Scent Bar at MONC XIII

5 Lewis Street, Greenwich

203-340-2275

monc13.com

HOURS: Tues.–Sat. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

One of our “nosy” editors reports: “My latest, greatest discovery is the scent bar at MONC XIII in Greenwich. They have the best curation of personal fragrance options, grouped by scent notes, and Michelle is an expert in recommending based on your personal preferences (she will also make custom samples for you to take home!). The store itself is beautiful and has an exquisite edit of furniture, home décor and, of course, home fragrance.” »

Theo ’ s General Store

126 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton theosgeneral.com

HOURS: Wed.–Thurs. 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sun. 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Couple Jacob Fisher and Casey Romaine welcomed a baby recently, and now they are bringing Wilton their other baby—a general store for all to gather around and ooh and ah. Both are named Theo. The store version will offer a curated selection of local artisanal products plus international pantry items, a coffee bar, scrumptious pastries and a cozy seating area. One of our editors with discerning taste raves, “It’s amazing!”

The Mariner & The Muse

57 Chestnut Street, South Norwalk themarinerandthemuse.com

HOURS: Thurs.–Sat. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sun. 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The Mariner & the Muse offers “vintage furniture, homewares and interiors rooted in thoughtful storytelling. Each piece and project embodies our belief that design should feel personal, layered and full of soul—an ode to the well-loved and the well-lived.” The brands first brick and mortar location sits in South Norwalk’s design district, ready to drench anyone who walks in the door with a large dose of nostalgic creative inspiration. Founder Jill Arden Lukeman is a designer and owner of Arden’s coastal cafe in Rowayton.

Wee Mondine

35 Corbin Drive, Darien 203-202-2901 weemondine.com

HOURS: Mon.–Fri. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Wee Mondine’s adorable online shop now has a brick-and-mortar locale in the Corbin District. Founder Elizabeth Crosby curates a selection of apparel for baby, kids and women (with a focus on natural fabrics and sustainable manufacturing), plus home and apothecary items. Soor Ploom, Misha & Puff and Apolina are a few of Wee Mondine’s go-to brands. Unique finds like Kidamento cameras, Kiki & GG wooden retro rotary telephone toys, Dragon Diffusion purses for mom, Minnow swimwear and Sleepy Doe pajamas are just a few special gift ideas for that next baby shower or b-day. »

Westy Mover Concierge

For over thirty years, Westy Mover Concierge has recommended select movers to thousands of customers in order to make their moving experience pleasant and at reasonable cost. Westy does not charge movers for the service, but insists that they satisfy our customers.

ANXIETY & OCD TREATMENT CENTER

Specialists in treating OCD and anxiety disorders in children, adolescents & adults.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Health Anxiety, Fear of Flying, PTSD, Trauma, School Refusal, Separation Anxiety, Depression.

In-person and remote options available.

Reach New Patients Showcase Your Expertise

Over 1/4 of ALL Moffly Media magazine and website readers use our annual Top Dentists list as part of their search for providers.

17th Annual

TOP DENTISTS

Dental Profile Special Section

• Special section following our annual Top Dentists editorial feature, within our popular July/Aug Best of the Gold Coast issue

• Annual guide to Fairfield County’s dental experts & cosmetic specialists

• Custom profile created for your practice

• Reach an audience of 200,000+ families and local residents

• One year inclusion in our online dentist directory

• Bonus issue distribution to local events reaching health-conscious families, charitable organizations and community influencers

Issue Date: July/August 2026

On Newsstands: July 1, 2026

Commitment Date: May 12, 2026

Contact Gina Fusco at Gina.Fusco@moffly.com for more information.

MEET THE FOUNDER

DEB PLACEY

WITH A SECOND SPOT IN SCONSET SQUARE, THE POST WELCOMES NEW CUSTOMERS.

BY SAMANTHA YANKS

After 27 years as a sportscaster at ESPN and MSG Network, Deb Placey brought her lifelong passion for design to the forefront. Alongside her best friend— whom she grew up with—Placey co-founded The Post, a boutique that blends thoughtful home décor with unique finds.

While The Post already enjoys a spacious location on the Post Road, the opportunity to open a second spot in the heart of downtown Westport’s shopping district, Sconset Square, was simply too good to pass up.

“We jumped at the opportunity,” says Placey. “It’s such a vibrant area.”

The new location will make it easier for loyal customers to stop by while also introducing The Post to new shoppers exploring downtown. Known for its curated hostess gifts, tabletop pieces, and distinctive home décor, The Post will continue offering the items regulars love while also showcasing more one-of-a-kind pieces.

“With a second location, we have the chance to highlight even more unique finds,” Placey says.

And with neighboring shops like Casa Me always buzzing, Placey is excited to be part of the energy of Sconset Square—welcoming both longtime clients and first-time visitors to discover something special.

1799 Post Rd E. and 8 Sconset Square

“With a second location, we have the chance to highlight even more unique finds.”

—Deb Placey

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