Social Life - Memorial Day 2026

Social L ife

MEMORIAL DAY 2026

Celebrating 23 Years

In the Hamptons with ERIN MORIARTY

INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY MEETS TIMELESS DESIGN.

POWERFUL PRESENCE MEETS LUXURIOUS COMFORT.

LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE FIRM IN THE HAMPTONS the right representation makes all the difference

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HYDRATION

Explore Yachting Opportunities

PURCHASE • CHARTER • CO-OWNERSHIP • NEW BUILD

SANLORENZO 96A

2022 | Guests: 10 | Cabins: 5 | Crew: 4 | $8,500,000

ORION ONE 143' 9"

New Build | Guests: 10 | Cabins: 5 | Crew: 9 | POA

PERSHING 82'

2013/2021 | Guests: 6 | Cabins: 3 | Crew: 3 | $1,850,000

AMELS 180' 4"

2012/2022 | Guests: 12 | Cabins: 5 | Crew: 14 | $31,700,000

BARNES Yachting Americas 3565 Mystic Pointe Drive, Aventura, FL, 33180 +1 305 525-9301 | o.losada@barnes-yachting.com

16 CHEVIOT RD, SOUTHAMPTON

7 BEDS | 6+ BATHS | 0.9 ACRES | 6,400 SQ FT | $5,250,000

NIKHIL CHANDNANI 516-402-4922 | JAMES GIUGLIANO 631-456-3567

WEBID 5367160

261 MAJORS PATH, SOUTHAMPTON

7 BEDS | 8.5 BATHS | 0.79 ACRES | 6,651 SQ FT | $5,595,000

GEOFF GIFKINS 516-429-6927 | ZELONG PIAO 646-525-2328

WEBID 4873112

191 SHINNECOCK HILLS RD, SOUTHAMPTON

7 BEDS | 4 BATHS | 0.6 ACRES | 3,200 SQ FT | $2,625,000

DOUGLAS SABO 516-392-5727 | LAWRENCE BOAL 631-624-0381

WEBID 5337730

28 INLET VIEW DR, SOUTHAMPTON

4 BEDS | 4.5 BATHS | 0.23 ACRES | 2,800 SQ FT | $2,895,000

GEOFF GIFKINS 516-429-6927

62 THREE MILE HARBOR RD, EAST HAMPTON

4 BEDS | 4.5 BATHS | 0.63 ACRES | 3,222 SQ FT | $2,595,000 DEANNA CERIANO 516-426-7024

WEBID 5337122

240 HEAD OF POND RD, WATER MILL

5 BEDS | 7.5 BATHS | 0.94 ACRES | 4,450 SQ FT | $5,500,000 CAROL R. FINOCCHIO 917-439-6519

WEBID 3356333

785 DUNE RD, WESTHAMPTON

5

TEAM PERFIDO 631-258-0184

WEBID 5372684

119 LUMBER LN, BRIDGEHAMPTON

4 BEDS | 2 BATHS | 0.58 ACRES | 2,100 SQ FT | $3,395,000 RALPH RACITI 917-721-2189

WEBID 5155117

7

All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and has been compiles from sources deemed reliable. Though information is believed to be correct, it is presented subject to errors, omissions, changes or withdrawal without notice. © 2025 Nest Seekers International. All rights reserved. Licensed Real Estate Broker NY,

CO, CT. Nest Seekers International fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

19

6

WEBID 5437861

6

4

VINCENT

WEBID 5163583

8 MILL

POND

LN, LATTINGTOWN

5 BEDS | 9

WEBID 4745941

17 BARN LN, BRIDGEHAMPTON

6 BEDS | 7.5 BATHS | 0.96 ACRES | 6,000 SQ FT | $6,595,000 TARA CAPRI 631-741-1756 | JAMES GIUGLIANO 631-456-3567

WEBID 5437856

16

5

WEBID 5389191

BAY AVE, SOUTHAMPTON

631-456-3567

645

4

244 NORTH SEA MECOX RD, SOUTHAMPTON

6

VINCENT ABBATE 631-848-3628

WEBID 5119012

8 ASHWOOD CT, SOUTHAMPTON

7

WEBID 5382111

50 TUCKAHOE LN, SOUTHAMPTON

6

information is believed to be correct, it is presented subject to errors, omissions, changes or withdrawal without notice.

All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and has been compiles from sources deemed reliable.

Social Life

Social Life

Publisher JUSTIN MITCHELL

Editor-in-Chief

DEVORAH ROSE

Creative Director MARSIN MOGIELSKI

FEATURES

Managing Editor b a R i t Ron Z

Senior Editor R ob h o R ning

Editor-at-Large a lie M itchell

Feature Writer c a M e Ron W estin f o R bes

Travel Editor R. c ou R i h ay

Society Editor J ean s hafi Roff

Society Editor R achel h elle R

Mom Editor l yss s te R n

Men’s Fasion Editor MJ Pedone

Local Hamptons Editor K a R en b e R line R

Wine and Spirits Editor s ha Ron R oth

Contributing Editor Z ibby o W ens

International Editor n o R ah b R adfo R d

Features Editor i nna d e s ilva

Contributing Writer c h R istina c hao

The Social Register J ulia l indenthal

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS AND WRITERS

bRian aKeR, Rolise Rachel, JoRdyn axelRod, blaiRe bass, Jocelyn bRandeis, Ray colon, Whitney fitZgeRald, alyssa goldMan, fallon haRRington, JennifeR heaRst, lauRa heaRst, bennett MaRcus, l au R ie n e WK i RK , l exi W olf , e M ily y o RK e

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Rob Rich, vital agibaloW, PatRicK McMullan, Kelly codRington, sasha ecK, lauRa MiRciK-selleRs, M a R sin M ogiels K i , gen nishino, lisa taMbuRini, annie Watt, david WaRRen, andReW WeRneR

CORPORATE

Advertising Sales Director R obyn M ichele

New Business Developer c ass a l M end R al

New Business Developer c a RR ie b Rudne R

Luxury Director R obe Rt P ace

Senior Executive M elissa M itchell - b oyd

ART

Art Editor M ago

Video Director K atya n este Rov

Videographer J ac K M u RR ay

FASHION / BEAUTY

Fashion and Jet Set Editor g R ego Ry d elli c a RP ini J R

Fashion Editor s ofie M ähl K vist

Beauty Director J eanette M. Z inno

Watch and Jewelry Editor J onathan v alde Z

WELLNESS

Wellness Editor l iana W e R ne R - g R ay

Advertising and Sponsorship

Please contact Social Life at advertising@sociallifemagazine.com

Publishing Offices: SOCIAL LIFE MAGAZINE, INC.

Every year, Memorial Day arrives in the Hamptons and announces the beginning of summer. For me, it has never been just a long weekend but a time to think about the coming season. I’ve spent my summers here since I was young, and over time they’ve blended together in the most beautiful way: bike rides, endless afternoons by the ocean, and peaceful evenings beneath a sky full of stars.

Summer has a way of slowing life to a more meaningful pace. I’m looking forward to unhurried days and long dinners with friends. The Hamptons offer undeniable beauty, but what makes this place extraordinary is something deeper: a rare calm that feels increasingly difficult to find elsewhere. If you allow yourself to embrace it fully, summer in the Hamptons can reveal things so often lost in more hectic times: presence, connection, gratitude.

Each summer here brings a renewed sense of optimism. Familiar faces return, new destinations emerge, and every sunrise seems to hold the promise of possibility. The energy of summer in the Hamptons is timeless and inspiring, fostering an atmosphere where creativity flourishes, friendships deepen, and lasting impressions are made.

Ultimately, the most important moments of summer are the ones we never saw coming: the spontaneous impulses, the unexpected conversations, the unplanned experiences that become the memories we carry with us for the rest of our lives.

Justin Mitchell

Memorial Day weekend marks the beginning of summer on the East End, but more than that, it marks a shift in rhythm.

People linger a little longer over coffee. Neighbors reappear after the winter. Farm stands fill with fresh produce and familiar faces. The boutiques, restaurants, florists, and small businesses that give the Hamptons its texture and personality open their doors for another season. There is a renewed energy here this time of year but also, if we allow it, an opportunity to slow down enough to actually experience where we are and who we are sharing it with.

The Hamptons have always been associated with beauty and luxury, but what has always stayed with me most is the sense of community: The people who remember your name at the local market. The shop owners who have been here for decades. The organizations and volunteers quietly doing meaningful work behind the scenes. Summer out east is at its best when we participate in it fully, not just socially, but thoughtfully.

That means supporting local businesses. Buying from farm stands. Spending an extra few minutes in conversation instead of rushing to the next thing. Showing up for charitable organizations that make a real difference in the lives of others.

One cause especially close to my heart is the Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation, which is unique because it is the only open-admission shelter on the East End. Every animal that comes through its doors is accepted. In a place known for so much abundance, I think there is something profoundly important about supporting organizations rooted in responsibility, kindness, and service. I encourage everyone this summer to connect with a cause that genuinely moves them. Community becomes stronger when compassion becomes participation.

This issue is a celebration of the season ahead, but also a reminder that the true spirit of summer is connection. Not just to places but to people. To traditions. To community. To the feeling of being present enough to appreciate all of it.

Wishing you a beautiful Memorial Day weekend and a meaningful start to summer.

With love,

Devorah Rose Editor in Chief

SATURDAY, AUGUST 8, 5 PM | HERRICK PARK, EAST HAMPTON

SIGNING COCKTAIL PARTY WITH 100 AUTHORS FOLLOWED BY DINNER PARTIES WITH GUEST AUTHORS MEET YOUR FAVORITE AUTHORS AT ONE OF THE NATION’S LEADING ANNUAL LITERARY CELEBRATIONS!

Proceeds benefit the East Hampton Library, a non-profit organization providing outstanding free library services to the East Hampton community. The funds raised at Authors Night are used for essential programs and services at the Library throughout the year. At 8pm, following the Authors Night book signing cocktail party, continue the evening at a DINNER PARTY — with one or more of the guest authors — at a lovely Hamptons home!

WATCHES

PIAGET

18-Karat White Gold

With Diamonds

Price upon request

20 Hudson Yards 332.204.2938

CHANEL

White Ceramic

With Diamonds

Price upon request

737 Madison Avenue

212.355.5050

GRAFF

18-Karat White Gold

With Diamonds

$105,000

710 Madison Avenue

212.421.3605

HARRY WINSTON

18-Karat White Gold With Diamonds

$135,000

701 Fifth Avenue

212.399.1000

JEWELRY

b y J onathan v alde Z

Ready to sparkle for another fabulous summer out east? Be the literal diamond of the season in these breathtaking baubles!

LOUIS VUITTON

18-Karat Yellow Gold

With Onyx and Diamonds

$20,300

6 East 57th Street

212.758.8877

CARELLE

18-Karat Yellow Gold

With Diamonds

$12,835

62 Park Place, East Hampton

631.604.6908

CHOPARD

18-Karat Ethical Rose Gold

With Diamonds

$20,000

730 Fifth Avenue

212-223-2304

VAN CLEEF & ARPELS

18-Karat Yellow Gold

With Diamonds

$13,500

744 Fifth Avenue

212-896-9284

NATALIE O.

THE EAST END’S NEWEST LUXURY OBSESSION

For Natalie Katz O’Brien, founder of Natalie O. jewelry, creativity has always been a form of movement—through cities, through memories, through the quiet details that shape a life. A native New Yorker raised on curiosity, culture, and global adventure, O’Brien grew up observing the world with an architect’s eye and an artist’s instinct. Today, those early impressions live on in the sculptural, story‑driven pieces that define her brand. Her path to jewelry was anything but linear. O’Brien studied interior design at Parsons with dreams of becoming an architect, later moving into the antique market and launching her own design firm. But motherhood shifted her focus, and for years she stepped back from professional life to raise her three children. The creative spark never left—it simply waited.

It reignited unexpectedly during a trip to St. Barts, where a leather-and-pearl necklace caught her attention. Back home, she attempted to re-create it, and friends were already asking for their own. What began as a small experiment soon became a calling. Determined to master the craft, O’Brien enrolled at Studio Jewelers in

New York, spending three years immersed in the gritty, hands-on world of metals, stones, and technique.

Yet another place has shaped her just as deeply: the Hamptons. “I’ve been going since my post-college summers—it’s been an evolution,” she said. Summers began in Sagaponack and later in Southampton; years of family traditions wove the East End into her creative DNA. “Flying Point Beach at any hour. Wiffle ball in the backyard. BLTs at Silver’s (RIP). Long lunches at Sant Ambroeus. Winters in town. The crab dip at Citarella. Bistro Été. Sagg General Store—before and after, but mostly before,” she laughed.

The Hamptons is where she runs, journals, reflects, and mentally prepares for the studio work ahead. “It’s my happy place, filled with memories and the kind of clarity that drives my passion.” That sense of movement and memory fuels the design process behind Natalie O. jewelry, which officially launched with three collections: Café Society, Soulmates, and Serenissima. Each piece begins with travel, observation, and sketching from cathedral ceilings, antique patinas, café interiors, and European streets translated into wearable sculpture.

Today, her work is gaining international attention, but at its heart, the brand remains rooted in the places that shaped her: New York, Europe, and, always, the Hamptons.

u To learn more visit: natalie-o.com | @natalieojewels

RUNWAY

The Coolest Shade in the Room

Capri blue is emerging as the season’s most transportive shade—crisp, saturated, and impossibly clean, like a horizon you can step into. Designers from Loewe to Coperni are leaning in, translating the hue into sculptural bags, glassy heels, and high-shine finishes that catch the light just so. The effect is both playful and refined. Against neutrals, Capri blue feels electric; paired with other bold tones, it becomes unexpectedly sophisticated. Think of it as a modern escape—one that doesn’t require a passport, just a well-placed accessory.

COURREGES

ACCESSORIES

Seeing Red

This season, accessories speak in shades of red, with oxblood, garnet, and deep merlot replacing anything too bright or obvious. It’s less about making a statement and more about precision. A structured cherry bag against summer neutrals, lacquered heels beneath tailored linen, or a sleek leather glove—each adds just enough tension to elevate a look. Designers like Valentino are moving toward rich texture, from patent shine to soft silk, allowing the color to shift with the light. The effect is confident, controlled, and discreetly sensual. Red is loud no more—it’s assertive.

Small Angelika Earrings $695

DRIES VAN NOTEN Red and Blue Embroidered Scarf

$1,235

ACCESSORIES

Seeing Red

LOEWE

Red Mini Anagram

Cat-Eye Sunglasses

$410

VALENTINO GARAVANI

Red V-Logo Signature

Mini Bag

$1,150

YOHJI YAMAMOTO

Vampire Rouge

Pinkie Ring

$555

STELLA FLAME JEWELRY

Veronica Ruby

Cuff Bracelet

18-Karat Yellow Gold

925 Sterling Silver

White Diamonds

$18,000

Where transformations are personal, and the results speak for themselves.

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SOFIE’S TRENDS

b y s ofie M ähl K vist

FROM COURTSIDE TO COCKTAILS

This season’s sport-inspired pieces bring a polished twist to classic country-club style. Think pleated skirts, refined knits, sleek visors, and sculptural accessories that nod to the world of tennis and summer leisure. Effortlessly chic and endlessly versatile, the look captures the relaxed elegance that defines summer in the Hamptons.

Instagram: @sofiemahlkvist

MAISON MICHEL PARIS

Pat Vizor

A sophisticated take on a courtside classic, this woven visor captures the joie de vivre of summer sport. Light weight and effortlessly chic, it brings just the right touch of Riviera charm to sunny days in the Hamptons. Practical, stylish, and undeniably refined. $720 | michel-paris.com

CELINE

Polo Sweater in Fine Cashmere

Nothing evokes country-club style quite like a polished polo knit. This refined cashmere piece channels the timeless elegance of tennis dressing while maintaining Celine’s signature minimalism. A chic choice for breezy afternoons or relaxed summer gatherings.

$1,650 | celine.com

PRADA

Pleated Rush Stitch Midi Skirt

Crisp pleats echo the spirit of traditional tennis attire, elevated through Prada’s impeccable tailoring. The structured silhouette moves beautifully, creating a look that feels both sporty and sophisticated. Perfect styled with a polished knit or tailored top for an effortlessly refined summer ensemble.

$3,500 | prada.com

BOTTEGA VENETA

Prisma Cat-Eye Sunglasses

Sculptural and striking, these cat-eye sunglasses add a bold finish to any sport-inspired look. The sharp silhouette and luxe detailing give them a distinctly modern feel while maintaining their aura of glamour. A perfect statement accessory for bright summer afternoons.

CHANEL

Small Bowling Bag

$585 | bottegaveneta.com

this vibrant silhouette brings a refined athletic energy to summer dressing. The clean lines and graphic striping subtly reference classic sport influences while remaining unmistakably evening-ready. Ideal for a sunset cocktail party after a long day by the water.

$4,100 | ysl.com

A polished reinterpretation of a classic sport shape, this structured bowling bag embodies sophistication. The elongated silhouette makes it the perfect companion for everything from a casual lunch in Southampton to evening drinks at the club.

$5,100 | chanel.com

SHOPPING

Whether it ’s for a walk on the beach or an evening painting the Hamptons red, these shops know how to cater to your needs.

LoveShackFancy

A pastel dream located in a charming farmhouse on Main Street in Sag Harbor, this is your go-to place for unique pieces ranging from custom sweaters to bags made in Morocco. The shop also offers up a number of photogenic moments perfect for Instagram. 117 Main Street, Sag Harbor

a WiLd dove

Located in the posh hotel Solé East, this shop is an edgy beachgoer’s dream. Stylist and former trend forecaster Lynn Levoy is at the helm of this chic spot, and she has curated a magical shopping experience that includes brands from R13 and Linda Farrow to Moon Juice and Joanna Vargas. You will walk away with something unexpected and effortlessly cool.

90 Second House Road, Montauk

charLie Fox

Attuned to the rhythm of the Hamptons, Charlie Fox offers a refined, design forward take on the modern dispensary. The space is more boutique than storefront, with a thoughtfully curated selection and a team that keeps things casual. Alongside it all is a line of cool, well-designed apparel—pieces you’ll actually want to wear. It’s a place that fits the pace of the East End perfectly.

471 County Road 39, Southampton

HOT LYSST

What’s hot? What’s in? What’s #fabuLyss?

Lyss Stern, a New York City–based best-selling author and the founder of Divamoms.com is at the forefront of style, trends, and the must-have-nows. Lyss gives moms and expectant moms the scoop on Instagram @diva_moms

DIVAMOMS STYLE

YOUR MUST-HAVE SUMMER HAMPTONS TOTE

From sandy mornings to sunset dinners, this is the one bag every Hamptons mom will reach for all summer long. Spacious, stylish, and hand-beaded, the slouchy tote carries everything you need while elevating every look. Customize yours for your Hamptons town—Montauk, Sag Harbor, Shelter Island—and make it uniquely yours wherever summer takes you. (Please note that each bag can be custom-beaded with your favorite color.) @lyssandkat

DIVAMOMS SUMMER ACTIVEWEAR

Electric Merch Co. is a #fabulyss Hamptons-based design house where storytelling, craftsmanship, and personal style come together. Founded by designer and creative director

Julia Dawson, EMC combines luxury expertise with a modern boutique approach to create pieces that are as elevated as they are personal.

$148 for each piece; complimentary personalization available with code: “HotLysst” (three-day turnaround) electricmerchco.com, @theelectricmerchco

#FABULYSS SUMMER HAMSA

Maison De Monette M is a fine jewelry house dedicated to modern expressions of protection. Renowned for its sculptural Hamsa designs, each piece is thoughtfully crafted in luminous gold and vibrant stones. Blending spiritual symbolism with refined luxury, the collection reimagines ancient motifs as contemporary icons. maisondemonettem.com

DIVAMOMS RESORT WEAR

From poolside to cocktails, we’ve got you covered. Flora Marteen is a #fabulyss new resort wear brand inspired by effortless style and feel-good fashion, named after the founder’s Buenos Aires–raised grandmother. Each limited-edition collection features chic silhouettes and luxe materials like crochet, knits, and metallics designed to take you from the Hamptons beach to evening with ease. Made in small batches in the U.S. floramarteen.com, @floramarteen

DIVAMOMS SPF

Kiehl’s Better Screen UV Serum-inStick (SPF 50+) is a lightweight, invisible sunscreen stick designed for easy, on-the-go protection. Infused with stabilized vitamin C, it helps improve tone, texture, and radiance while

gliding smoothly over or under makeup. Dermatologist-tested and nongreasy, it’s perfect for effortless reapplication anytime. kiehls.com

DIVAKIDS SUMMER CURLS

Fusilli is a clean, curl first hair care brand built on a simple belief: Curls don’t need complicated routines, they just need the right essentials. At the core of the brand is the Fusilli Method: a streamlined, two-step system designed to deliver soft, defined, frizz free curls without the overwhelm. @fusillihair

ERIN MORIARTY

ERIN MORIARTY STEPS INTO HER POWER

by devoRah Rose PhotogRaPhy by: PaRKeR buRR

As The Boys ends its decade-long run, the actress who anchored it has come full circle. When The Boys premiered on Amazon Prime in the summer of 2019, it did something almost no superhero property had managed in a decade of capes and tentpoles. Eric Kripke’s gleefully obscene adaptation of Garth Ennis’s comic was a satire dressed in spandex, a takedown of celebrity worship, corporate evangelism, fascist iconography, and the American appetite for a man in a cape wrapped in the flag. Critics called it the smartest, most subversive show on television. Audiences turned it into one of the platform’s most watched series in the world, and at the moral center of it, holding the architecture of an immoral universe together, was a young actress from Manhattan named Erin Moriarty, playing a girl from Iowa who had been told her whole life she was destined for something pure.

Now the show is ending. Ten years since she first walked into Vought Tower as Annie January, Moriarty is closing the chapter the way a person closes a chapter she has earned: with answers, with quiet, and with a clear-eyed account of what it cost. And it might surprise you to hear this, but let her explain first: She is not watching the final season.

“It would be like reliving it,” Moriarty says, talking about being diagnosed with Graves’ disease. “When it comes to sharing vulnerable things like health issues, women have a shorter window in Hollywood,” she says. “Physical vulnerabilities can become your identity. I live in a very optics-oriented industry, and I want to be able to protect my optics. I want to be able to protect my privacy.”

There is nothing braver than being honest and open about something that has made you vulnerable, especially when it comes to health. But Moriarty is in a particularly unique position because her health journey has intersected with her hero’s journey. There is a particular kind of cruelty in being diagnosed with an autoimmune disease while playing a superhero.

The shock compounds when the diagnosis comes late.

“I’m coming up on my one-year anniversary of my diagnosis,” she says, “and it changed my view on everything for the better.”

The diagnosis arrived as an answer, and answers, as anyone who has waited for one knows, are not so easy to come by. The thing that had been pulling her out of her own scenes finally had a name. Naming a thing is the first step toward holding it.

“To have gotten a role like Annie, and to find out late in the game that I had been suffering the kind of autoimmune disease that has made me totally not present for many of my scenes, which is the antithesis of who I am as an actor,” she says. “I was really ill. And so I am not watching the final season.”

It’s amazing to hear Moriarty say this. The consensus is that her performance as Starlight is one of the most positive of the cast. A lot of people have specifically praised how she played Starlight as emotionally grounded and believable in a show full of cartoonishly heightened performances. Fans often say she gave the series its human center, and yet, Moriarty’s love of acting and loyalty to the role makes it hard for her to watch. “I have a history of struggling with being type A,” she says. “In reality, people who tend to be type A tend to be perfectionists.” The lesson she has been working on, lifted from Annie herself, is that perfection is the enemy of the good. The line is the sort of thing that sounds like a poster in a therapist’s waiting room until you watch a person who has spent her life inside its opposite try to actually live by it.

“She loses her power at a certain point, and she gains it back when she starts to embrace who she is again, when she starts to accept the concept that perfection is the enemy of the good,” Moriarty says. “That, right there, is the thing most personally aligned with myself.”

It’s astonishing when a fictional role reveals something true about your own humanity. But that is the work of art: to illuminate the human condition until we recognize ourselves inside it. That is why stories matter. They heal, sometimes in the moment, sometimes only once we’ve had the distance to understand them.

In that distance, Moriarty came to a realization. In her own way, she had already said goodbye to Starlight by the end of Season 4. “I said goodbye to Annie in Season 4 when I could be fully present for her. I didn’t know it at the time. But now I can be fully present for characters that I move forward with because I have been lucky enough to get answers. I don’t want to be identified by my disease, but there is a reality during this very short period of time when I was. And we have to be okay with that.”

The Boys is, depending on whom you ask, either a satire dressed up as a superhero show or a superhero show that earned its satire by being smarter than anyone had any right to expect from the genre. Moriarty is unsentimental about the appeal.

“There is this way the show gives people sugar,” she says, “something fun and wildly entertaining, but layered underneath is this very topical social and political commentary. I think that contrast is why people respond to it. For those of us making it, it’s been cathartic, even healing in a way, because the show isn’t pretending the world isn’t what it is. The cynicism would come from existing alone in this world with these thoughts.”

Asked whether 10 years of playing inside a story about media manipulation and corporate rot have soured her on the media, she gives the inverse answer. The show, she says, is the antidote, not the symptom.

Moriarty has views about the genre itself, sharp ones, with the heat of someone who has spent a long time inside a costume. “I am in awe of the women who come before me and the women who will continue to exist after me,” she says. “Formally, it’s a really male-centric world. One of my favorite

elements of playing a female like Annie is that she is paradoxical. I love those messy parts in addition to the impenetrable persona that we have all collectively observed in the Captain Marvels.”

What she wants, she says, is “a female centric box office hit cinematic experience that involves a badass female superhero that is also paradoxical and messy and flawed and sometimes makes the wrong decisions.”

She got a small taste of this herself lately. “Toward the end of Season 4 I got to play an evil character,” she says, “and honestly, it was fun.” She loves the casting subversion of it. “When we take gender archetypes and assign them to a certain box, it’s always interesting when casting has a woman they would stereotypically put in an ingenue role, and they actually put her in an evil role. That’s one of the most interesting things you can do.”

She loves the evil roles, she says. There is a corollary belief: “99.9 percent of the time, when someone is behaving in a way that is malicious or even seemingly sociopathic, that’s going to have a really cool origin story.” It is a generous theory of villainy, and an actor’s theory.

About fame she is more skeptical. “You need to love what you do, whether it’s acting or set design or costume design. I love acting so much I could eat it,” she says. “And if, by some off chance, you get to the place where you experience the vapid nature of fame, it is not what it seems to be. It’s just that it’s vapid. It’s also not something not to be grateful for, because it implies that we have all gotten to a place that is so fortunate. But fame is not it. It’s a weird, unnatural social experience. Everyone involved in acting needs to know that.

Love what you are doing so much that it makes that unnatural social side worth it, because it’s so much more invasive than you can anticipate.”

The thick skin came slowly. “It took lessons. It took me making mistakes. We need to acknowledge the fact that, socially speaking, it is such an abnormal position to be in.” The single most repeated piece of advice in her life, she says, is the one she finally learned to follow. “Stay out of the comment section. So much easier said than done. But the amount of times it was said to me before I was able to implement it was vast. I got to that place. I don’t google myself. I don’t look at my comments. I don’t look at tagged photos. I don’t do any of it.”

Ask Moriarty about the Hamptons and her register changes entirely. The actress disappears. A girl with opinions about ice cream takes her place. “There is an element to them that is unparalleled,” she says. “The bougainvillea. I love the feeling and the aesthetic of the Hamptons. Lobster roll, ice cream. I love Hamptons cuisine. The beautiful beaches and the gorgeous towns.”

Both the Hamptons and Starlight are in the rearview mirror now, but Annie comes with her: the character who taught her to embrace imperfection, to lose her power and find it again, to refuse the cruelty of optics over truth. Those lessons don’t stay behind in Season 4. They travel. It is the inheritance Moriarty earned over 10 years, and it will be the foundation of every role she has not played yet. She will not watch the final season because she does not need to. The thing that mattered did not happen to the hero on the screen. It happened to the woman holding her up.

Photography: Parker Burr

Creative Direction: devorah roSe and aShLey Pruitt

Fashion stylist: aShLey Pruitt

Hair stylist: daLLin JameS

Makeup stylist: Jamie GreenBerG

Special thanks to: tara LonG

MARTIN PEPA

WHERE ELEGANCE MEETS GRIT IN THE SPORT OF POLO

In an era of speed and screens, Martin Pepa offers something different: elegance, discipline, and preservation of an old-world glamour that feels increasingly rare. The Argentine-born polo player, who spends his summers riding through the manicured fields of the Hamptons, is more than an athlete; he’s a steward of a tradition that speaks to grace and timeless style. It testifies not only to his skill but to his sensibility, poise, and innate connection to the world around him.

Pepa fully embraces the duality of raw athleticism and highsociety polish. He trains daily— lifting weights, stretching, and staying in peak physical condition—but also finds balance in the pleasures of Hamptons living. For him, rejuvenation comes through beach days, live music, and long, laughter filled dinners with great company. His circle is split—half polo friends, half not—reflecting the harmony he’s found between the competitive and the social. Nature is his grounding force; he especially loves walking the beaches and deeply appreciates the way the Hamptons have preserved their natural beauty.

Pepa’s game day begins with a solemn ritual: attending church. He spends 30 to 45 minutes praying and reflecting, drawing on his Catholic faith to find courage and calm. Afterward, he visits his beloved horses, or his “queens” as he calls them, keeping his focus grounded and energy steady. His music choices have evolved— from the energy of Guns N’ Roses and the Rolling Stones to the mellow, steady melodies of Elton John, Christopher Cross, and Billy Joel. Now he opts for music that offers refuge from the intensity of the field.

Behind the scenes, Pepa’s team operates like a close-knit family. In the days leading up to a match, players spend time together at the farm, watching game footage and holding focused team meetings, deciding strategy. These sessions aren’t merely about tactics; they’re about bonding, building trust, and

getting mentally in sync. These unspoken rhythms and rituals form the glue that holds a successful team together.

While Pepa honors the sport’s rich heritage, what brings him the greatest joy is how it allows him and his teammates to give back. Whether they’re playing in England, Florida, the Hamptons, or Uruguay, they make it a priority to support local communities and provide for those with fewer resources. Polo is more than a game to him; it’s a way to spread love, happiness, and opportunity wherever he goes.

When asked for a favorite off-the-record memory, Pepa doesn’t pinpoint one moment. Instead, he lives for the everyday magic. He describes himself as an “engine” of love and happiness, fueled by seeing others enjoy life. He thrives on reunions, big dinners, and the joy of good company. He finds calm in browsing shops like Marders and admires how each town is committed to preserving its natural surroundings.

When it comes to playing in the Hamptons, he says there’s nowhere quite like it. The fields are pristine, tournaments are high-level, yet the atmosphere is fun and the joy palpable. As for the appeal of Polo Hamptons, Pepa believes people come for the thrill—the pure athleticism, the equine beauty, the electricity in the air. To him, polo is for everyone, and he cherishes the family-friendly energy and expresses gratitude for everyone involved, from the grooms and guests to the media teams.

When the crowds disperse and the champagne stops flowing, Pepa returns to the barn and sits beside his horses for an hour or two, chatting with the grooms about the match, feeding the animals, or icing them down. It’s a moment of peace, reflection, and gratitude. He lives by the team motto: “You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great.”

When asked what it means to carry yourself with quiet power, Pepa describes himself as mentally strong—someone who can “click” into a mindset rooted in positivity and purpose. For him, success stems from daily discipline: training, health, happiness, and love for the people around you and for the game itself. Winning isn’t the only goal, though. It’s also about growing stronger each day, even after a loss. Life, as he sees it, is about collecting and connecting, gathering moments of love and unifying them with the grounding presence of family and nature.

Pepa carries himself like a warrior, always pursuing the goal with purpose. But beneath that intensity is a deeper belief: True power comes from unity. Whether on the field or off, he values staying closely connected with teammates, horses, and the people around him—because his strength is amplified when it’s shared.

Polo Hamptons will be held at 900 Lumber Lane, Bridgehampton, on July 18 and July 25.

BEAUTY

VELVET REPAIR

The Overnight Reset

We know to wear SPF and reapply—but what happens after a day in the sun? After sun-drenched days and late summer nights, skin craves recovery. These next-generation treatments work overnight with your body’s natural repair cycle to cool, restore hydration, and deliver a radiant, morning-after glow.

Sisley’s Velvet Sleeping Mask cocoons skin in rich, comforting hydration. Infused with saffron flower extract, it works overnight to soften, repair, and restore resilience for a smooth, luminous finish by morning.

Bergdorf Goodman, $180

EYE REVIVAL

This luxurious balm by Tata Harper targets tired eyes with firming, lifting benefits. It smooths fine lines, reduces puffiness, and deeply hydrates the delicate eye area, providing a well-rested, youthful look overnight. tataharperskincare.com, $260

MIDNIGHT RENEWAL

This potent blend of botanical oils by Seed to Skin works overnight to repair and replenish. The silky treatment boosts elasticity, restores moisture, and enhances radiance, so skin appears renewed, plump, and glowing at first light. seedtoskin.com, $233

COOLING RESET

A soothing, lightweight infusion that calms heat-stressed skin on contact. Zure Solaris delivers instant hydration and a cooling effect, helping reduce redness and restore balance after long days in the sun. Cos Bar, $88

The Art of Beauty Sleep

b y J eanette Z inno

A good night’s sleep is the ultimate luxury. I sat down with David Wolfe, co-founder and CEO of Tiami. We discussed the power of beauty sleep and how his fast-rising brand is redefining the luxury mattress industry through thoughtful design, innovation, and a commitment to truly restorative rest.

What inspired Tiami?

After my co-founder and CPO, Jamie Diamonstein, and I sold Leesa, we saw a luxury category with too many options and not enough conviction. With more than 70 years of ex perience between us, we set out to create one mattress we’d stand behind, the perfect balance of value and luxury. Simplicity is the ultimate luxury.

Why partner with Design Within Reach?

Design Within Reach rep resents thoughtful, designforward living. Its customer values craftsmanship and integrity, exactly what Tiami is for. It’s the ideal setting for a mattress built to last.

How does Tiami support beauty sleep?

Deep sleep boosts circulation, collagen production, and cellular repair. Tiami’s breathable organic cotton and pressure-relieving layers help you stay asleep longer, so your body reaches those critical restorative stages.

What sets Tiami apart?

Tiami is designed as a complete system, combining high airflow coils and a heat-responsive layer to keep you cool without gels, chemicals, or electricity. Drawing on his 40-plus years of experience, Diamonstein engineered each layer to work together for lasting comfort and support. Independent testing shows zero body indentations after 10 years—so it feels the same night after night.

How does sleep impact overall health?

Repair, hormone balance, immune function, and stress regulation

all happen during sleep, which is why chronic sleep deprivation has been linked to issues ranging from cardiovascular disease to cognitive decline. Without it, performance, focus, metabolism, and recovery all decline, making sleep the foundation that allows every other wellness investment, from training to nutrition, to work.

Does environment matter?

Absolutely. Temperature, texture, and design all signal your body to rest, and even small changes can noticeably affect sleep quality. Your body needs to cool down to fall asleep, so a breathable, welldesigned surface works with your biology instead of against it. A thoughtfully designed environment—free from excess heat, noise, and clutter—helps reinforce the signal that it’s time to wind down.

For someone looking to upgrade their sleep ritual, where should they begin?

Start with your mattress. Pair it with a cool, dark room and a consistent routine—the results are immediate.

u For more, please visit: Design Within Reach | Tiami.com

THE ART OF TRANSFORMATION

INSIDE THE WORLD OF STEPHEN T. GREENBERG, M.D., FACS

There is a certain kind of confidence that cannot be manufactured, only revealed. It’s the kind that walks into a room quietly and leaves an impression long after. For decades, that subtle alchemy has been the signature of Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg, the award-winning, double boardcertified celebrity plastic surgeon whose work lives at the intersection of refinement, rejuvenation, and reinvention.

From Manhattan to the Hamptons and across the globe, his name circulates in the kinds of conversations that begin in private and end in transformation, not because he promises change but because he understands it.

A SURGEON, BUT ALSO AN ARCHITECT OF IDENTITY

Spend even a few minutes observing Dr. Greenberg and it becomes clear: This is not a practitioner chasing trends. This is a surgeon who has outlasted them.

With over 30 years practicing the art of plastic surgery, he has witnessed the evolution of beauty, from the exaggerated to the imperceptible, and he has always positioned himself ahead of the curve. Where others once leaned into dramatic alteration, Dr. Greenberg refined a philosophy rooted in subtlety.

“I’m not here to change who someone is,” he has said. “I’m here to bring them back to themselves.”

It’s a perspective that resonates deeply with today’s patient, one who is less interested in alteration and more invested in authenticity.

THE CELEBRITY SURGEON WHO DOESN’T NEED TO SAY IT

The term “celebrity plastic surgeon” is often overused, but in Dr. Greenberg’s case, it feels less like branding and more like an observation. His clientele includes high profile figures, industry insiders, and those who expect discretion as part of the service.

Yet what defines his presence is not who he treats but how he treats them.

There are no theatrics. Instead, patients describe a sense of calm precision, a surgeon who listens as carefully as he operates. In an industry that can sometimes feel transactional, this level of attentiveness is its own form of luxury.

THE NEW LANGUAGE OF BEAUTY

Aesthetic ideals have shifted. The aspirational faces and bodies of today are not obviously sculpted; they are quietly optimized. Dr. Greenberg has been a key voice in this transition, advocating for results that are undetectable yet undeniable. A lifted jawline that doesn’t announce itself. A refined silhouette that feels earned, not engineered.

It’s a philosophy that aligns with a broader cultural moment, where beauty is no longer about looking different, but about looking confident. And in that nuance lies his expertise.

WHERE MEDICINE MEETS EXPERIENCE

Step inside one of his practices, and the environment tells its own story. These are not clinical spaces in the traditional sense; they are curated, intentional, almost cinematic.

From New York City to Florida, each location reflects a commitment to what can only be described as approachable luxury , an experience designed to reassure without intimidating. Patients are guided, advised, not persuaded.

In a world saturated with options, this level of trust has become one of Dr. Greenberg’s signature trademarks.

“I’m not here to change who someone is. I’m here to bring them back to themselves.“

Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg

BEYOND THE OPERATING ROOM

Dr. Greenberg’s influence extends far beyond his surgical suite. A familiar face across major media platforms, he has become a cultural translator of sorts, explaining, contextualizing, and occasionally challenging the narratives around plastic surgery.

His voice carries authority, but also accessibility. He doesn’t mystify the process; he demystifies it. And in doing so, he has helped reshape public perception, moving aesthetic medicine from taboo to thoughtful consideration.

THE ENDURING APPEAL OF SUBTLE POWER

Ultimately, what sets Dr. Greenberg apart is not just his technical skill but his understanding of restraint. In an age of overexposure, where everything is filtered, edited, and amplified, his work feels almost radical in its discretion. It whispers where others shout.

Patients don’t leave looking like someone else. They leave looking like themselves, only clearer, more rested, more aligned with how they feel inside.

And perhaps that is the real transformation.

Luxury, at its highest level, is not about excess, it’s about precision—about knowing exactly what to do and, just as importantly, what not to do.

For Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg, that balance has defined a career, and it continues to shape the future of aesthetic medicine.

Because in the end, the most powerful results are the ones no one can quite put their finger on. No one knows, but everyone notices.

u To request your personal consultation, call 844-486-0005 or visit greenbergcosmeticsurgery.com

SEED OILS

THE HEALTH TOPIC EVERYONE IS TALKING ABOUT IN 2026

b y l iana W e R ne R - g R ay

What Are Seed Oils?

If there’s one nutrition topic dominating conversations in the Hamptons this season—from beachside brunches to private wellness consultations—it’s seed oils. Once marketed as “hearthealthy,” these oils are now under intense scrutiny, with many health experts, biohackers, and conscious eaters questioning their role in modern disease.

So what exactly are seed oils—and why the sudden controversy?

Seed oils are vegetable oils extracted from the seeds of plants. Common examples include canola oil, soybean oil, corn oil, sunflower oil, safflower oil, cottonseed oil, and grapeseed oil. These oils are widely used in restaurants, packaged foods, salad dressings, and even so-called healthy snacks. Unlike traditional fats such as olive oil or grass-fed butter, most seed oils are highly processed. They are typically extracted industrially using high heat and chemical solvents like hexane, followed by refining, bleaching, and deodorizing. This process extends shelf life but can also alter the oil’s natural structure.

A Look at Their History

The rise of seed oils is deeply tied to industrialization. In the early 20th century, many of these oils were not originally intended for human consumption. They were used in machinery, including as industrial lubricants during World War I and World War II. After the war, industrialists had to figure out what to do with all the leftover oil.

This shift coincided with evolving dietary guidelines in the mid 1900s. Researcher Ancel Keys became a central figure in promoting the diet-heart hypothesis—the idea that saturated fat raises cholesterol and leads to heart disease. His work heavily influenced public health policy and helped shape the modern food pyramid, which encouraged replacing saturated fats (from animals and butter) with polyunsaturated fats—many of which came from seed oils.

While Keys’s research was influential, it has since been widely debated, with critics arguing that it oversimplified the relationship between fat and disease and overlooked other key variables. The food pyramid has since been completely restructured to reflect healthy whole fats from stable oils, as of January 2026.

The Health Debate: What Do Studies Say?

Today, the conversation around seed oils is less about fear and more about nuance. One of the main concerns is their high content of omega-6 fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid. While omega-6 fats are essential in small amounts, excessive intake—especially when not balanced with omega-3s—may contribute to inflammation in the body. Seed oils are imbalanced with omega-6s.

Chronic inflammation is now recognized as a root contributor to many modern conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases. Emerging research has explored potential links between high omega-6 intake and increased markers of neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and cellular damage.

Some observational studies and animal models have suggested associations between diets high in processed vegetable oils and increased risk of conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, cognitive decline, depression, anxiety, hormone disruption and infertility, certain cancers, and behavioral disorders like ADHD. The proposed mechanisms often point to oxidative stress—where unstable molecules damage cells—and inflammation in the brain.

If you eat a seed oil here and there, perhaps it won’t do damage. It’s when seed oils are consumed daily at your favorite restaurant or in salad dressings that there’s cause for concern. There has been a big push for restaurants to go seed-oil free. To find a list of restaurants in the Hamptons that are seed oil free, download the app Seed Oil Scout.

HEALTHY VS. HARMFUL

Not All Oils Are Created Equal

Healthy Fats and Oils (Whole, Stable, Nutrient-Rich)

These are generally less processed, more stable, and supportive of overall health when used properly:

Olive Oil (Extra Virgin): Rich in antioxidants and antiinflammatory compounds

Avocado Oil: High smoke point, great for cooking

Coconut Oil: Very stable saturated fat, ideal for heat

Sesame Seed Oil (cold-pressed): Contains beneficial lignans and antioxidants

Black Cumin Seed Oil (Nigella sativa): Traditionally used for immune and anti inflammatory support, anti parasitic

Chia Seed Oil: High in omega-3 fatty acids (best used cold)

Hemp Seed Oil: Balanced omega-3 to omega-6 ratio (no heat)

Beef Tallow: A traditional, time-tested fat rendered from beef, tallow is rich in stable saturated fats and fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K, and has a high smoke point.

The “Hateful 8” plus Peanut Oil (Highly Processed, Industrial Oils)

The Hateful 8, coined by Dr. Cate Shanahan, are oils criticized for their refining process, oxidation, and high omega 6 content:

O Canola oil

O Soybean oil

O Corn oil

O Cottonseed oil

O Sunflower oil

O Safflower oil

O Grapeseed oil

O Rice Bran oil

O Peanut oil

What to Use Instead

If you’re looking to upgrade your kitchen and your health, focus on stable, nutrient-rich fats that have been used for generations:

P Olive oil (especially extra virgin): Rich in antioxidants and known for its anti inflammatory properties. Ideal for low to medium heat, salad dressings, and drizzling.

P Avocado oil: High smoke point, making it excellent for cooking at higher temperatures.

P Coconut oil: A stable saturated fat that holds up well to heat and adds a subtle flavor. Get refined coconut oil if you don’t like the taste or smell of coconut oil.

These oils are less processed, more stable, and align with a whole-food approach to eating.

The Takeaway

The seed oil conversation isn’t about fear; it’s about awareness. As consumers become more educated and intentional about what they put into their bodies, questions around processing, sourcing, and long-term health are only natural.

In the Hamptons and beyond, the shift is clear: People are moving away from highly processed ingredients and returning to simpler, more natural foods. Ask your favorite restaurant what oil they are using, and if it’s canola or vegetable, ask if they can make the switch to olive oil or beef tallow for the fryer. It’s just a small cost to upgrade to a cleaner oil. If you do end up eating foods with seed oils and experience brain fog afterward, drink a green juice or chlorophyll water to help reduce oxidative stress immediately.

Whether you choose to eliminate seed oils entirely or simply become more mindful of their presence, knowledge is power—and your body will always respond to what you feed it.

Liana Werner-Gray

Certified nutritionist and best selling author of Anxiety-Free With Food and Cancer-Free With Food Founder of TheEarthDiet.com

IG & FB: @LianaWernerGray | @TheEarthDiet

Get the new book now: The Truth About Seed Oils by Liana Werner-Gray and Cherie Calbom Available on Amazon and through major book retailers.

DR. ANTHONY BERLET

THE PLASTIC SURGEON TALKS ABOUT WHY SOME WOMEN SKIP FILLERS AND GO STRAIGHT TO SURGERY

Memorial Day marks the start of summer, and the new season may prompt us to reconsider how we think about aging. After years of incremental, noninvasive treatments, many patients are stepping back and asking themselves: Is this approach actually working?

Dr. Anthony Berlet has spent more than three decades helping patients answer that question. A double board certified plastic and general surgeon with practices in New York and New Jersey, he is known for a measured, highly individualized approach that prioritizes long-term outcomes over short-term fixes. Before pursuing medicine, he studied architecture, a perspective that continues to shape how he evaluates the face:

not as isolated features but as a structure where balance and proportion matter.

With patients reconsidering the cycle of ongoing treatments, Social Life sat down with Dr. Berlet to talk about the limits of injectables and why, at a certain point, surgery often becomes the more effective solution.

There’s a growing conversation around what some call the “tweakment treadmill.” Are you seeing that in your practice?

Very much so. For years, the default was to start with injectables and continue adjusting over time. Now I’m seeing more patients pause and question whether that approach is actually delivering what they want. They’ve spent years making small changes, but they’re not getting meaningfully closer to the result they’re after.

What leads to that realization?

It’s usually a combination of how much time they’re spending maintaining it, the cost over time, and the results they’re actually seeing. Injectables can be effective, but they’re often asked to do more than they’re capable of doing. As we age, multiple changes are happening at once. The skin loses elasticity, tissues shift, and underlying support evolves. Adding volume doesn’t address all of that. There’s also a misconception that filler simply breaks down and disappears. It doesn’t always behave that way. It can remain in the tissue much longer than expected, and it can move over time, changing the shape of the face in ways patients didn’t anticipate.

When does surgery become the right decision?

Usually when the changes are no longer about volume. When patients start to notice loss of definition along the jawline, early jowling, or laxity in the neck, those are not issues that adding volume will fix. That’s typically when the conversation shifts, most often in the late 40s or early 50s. At that point, surgery isn’t a last resort. It’s the correct solution for the problem.

Many people still assume surgery means a long recovery. How accurate is that today?

It’s outdated. Most patients are presentable within 10 to 14 days, depending on the individual. Once people understand

by

what recovery actually looks like, it changes how they think about the decision.

What would surprise people most about how surgery is performed now?

Many procedures can be done with patients awake, using medication to help them relax and local anesthesia so they’re comfortable throughout. It allows for a more controlled, precise approach, and often a smoother recovery.

How does a long history of injectables affect surgical outcomes?

It can make things more complex. You’re not always starting from a neutral place. If filler has been used over many years, you may be dealing with changes in volume and placement. In some cases, you’re not just rejuvenating. You’re also correcting what’s been done over time.

For someone thinking about the long game, what’s the key shift in mindset?

It’s recognizing when you’ve outgrown what nonsurgical treatments can realistically achieve. Injectables have a role, but at a certain point, continuing down that path becomes less effective

than choosing a solution that actually addresses the problem.

Patients today seem more informed than ever. How are they educating themselves?

Patients are looking for real experiences, not just clinical explanations. My wife, Kerry, recently underwent a facelift, and we’ve been open about that experience. She also hosts a podcast, Once Upon a Surgery, where she speaks with patients about their concerns and what recovery is actually like.

For those spending time in the Hamptons this summer, where can patients see you?

I’ll be seeing patients this summer at Blue Water Spa, on 40 West Main Street in Southampton. For procedures, I operate out of my Fifth Avenue office in New York City and my primary practice in Cedar Grove, New Jersey.

Final question. What defines a successful result?

When someone looks at the patient and simply thinks they look good, without focusing on what changed.

Dr. Anthony Berlet berletplasticsurgery.com

NATURALLY SERIOUS SKINCARE

MEET ROCHELLE JACOBS AND SARAH MCNAMARA, THE DUO REDEFINING CLEAN BEAUTY OUT EAST

b y W inte R f ai Rchild

Summer in the Hamptons arrives with its own rhythm, sunny afternoons, salt breezes, and a natural shift toward lighter, more effortless beauty. It’s the perfect moment to rethink your skin-care routine, and Naturally Serious Skincare is leading the charge with a clean, elevated approach that feels tailormade for the season.

Founded by Hamptonites, entrepreneurs, and longtime friends Rochelle Jacobs and Sarah McNamara, Naturally Serious Skincare was born from a shared belief that clean skin care should never require compromise. As mothers and seasoned beauty industry veterans, the duo saw a widening gap in the market: products labeled “clean” that lacked the performance today’s consumer expects. At a time when many brands were simply “cleanwashing” old formulas, Jacobs and McNamara set out to create something truly intentional.

When Naturally Serious Skincare launched in 2018, debuting at Sephora as one of the first fully clean skin care brands, it did so with a clear philosophy: Clean should be purposeful, uncompromising, and results-driven. The brand’s strict “No BAD ingredient” standard—nothing banned, ambiguous, or

debatable—reflects their belief that what you leave out matters just as much as what you put in. Rather than chasing trends or overwhelming consumers with complicated routines, they focus on formulas that are trustworthy, effective, and grounded in transparency.

That simplicity feels especially right in the summer months, when skin craves breathable textures and targeted protection. Naturally Serious Skincare’s warm-weather essentials are designed to work with the season, not against it. Its Mineral Sun Defense Moisturizer SPF 30 offers clean, lightweight protection perfect for long days outdoors, while the C Your Glow Vitamin C Radiance Oil delivers brightening, antioxidant-rich nourishment that keeps skin glowing from beach mornings to sunset soirées.

Because of their love for the Hamptons, Jacobs and McNamara design products that reflect the balance of simplicity and sophistication that define summers out east. Each formula feels perfectly suited to long beach days, warm evenings, and a season built around wellness and ease. Naturally Serious Skincare offers a thoughtful approach to beauty that aligns seamlessly with the Hamptons lifestyle. To learn more, please visit: naturallyseriousskin.com

Revolutionizing bunion surgery, Dr. Neal Blitz, DPM, FACFAS developed this minimally invasive procedure and patented technology that gets patients back on their feet fast.

THE DOCTOR WHO SEES WHAT OTHERS MISS

HOW SUE DECOTIIS M.D. IS REDEFINING BEAUTY FROM THE INSIDE OUT

In a world saturated with quick fixes, Sue Decotiis M.D. has built her reputation on something far more enduring: precision.

From her Manhattan practice, the triple board certified physician has spent more than three decades helping patients reclaim energy, clarity, and confidence through highly personalized care. Her approach isn’t trenddriven, and it isn’t one size fits all. It’s deliberate, data-led, and deeply individualized.

“Treating without data is like getting on a highway without signs. You have no idea where you’re going.“

Dr. Sue Decotiis

For the sophisticated women and men who seek her out, often by referral, the experience feels distinctly different from traditional medicine.

What sets Dr. Decotiis apart is not just what she treats but how she sees. Where many physicians rely on surface symptoms, she looks deeper, using advanced hormone testing, metabolic analysis, and body composition data to better understand what’s happening beneath the surface. Her approach goes beyond conventional care, incorporating detailed body-composition tracking and comprehensive hormone mapping, tools she believes are too often overlooked in standard practice. This results in a level of customization that reflects the complexity of each individual, rather than a standardized protocol.

Her philosophy of viewing the body as an interconnected system has made her a respected voice in metabolic health and hormone optimization. She remains deeply immersed in the field, closely aligned with emerging research in perimenopause and metabolic change, where early physiological shifts are often missed or misunderstood.

Increasingly, that work has led her to confront a more nuanced challenge: skin.

As patients navigate weight loss or the shifts of perimenopause and menopause, many notice that while their bodies are changing, their skin doesn’t always follow at the same pace. Loss of firmness, changes in texture, and a sense of imbalance have become a common, if less discussed, concern.

Rather than treat skin as an afterthought, Dr. Decotiis approaches it the same way she approaches everything else: through observation, research, and refinement. The result is SculptisseTM Body Contour Cream, developed in response to a consistent pattern she saw in her patients, particularly those navigating weight loss and hormonal shifts.

The formulation reflects a blend of established skin care principles and newer innovations. At its core is a proprietary peptide complex that signals fibroblasts to stimulate collagen and elastin production, helping maintain and repair the skin’s structure. Supporting this are retinol for surface renewal, ceramides to reinforce the skin barrier, a multidepth hydration system to restore suppleness, and poppy seed extract to support the skin’s natural production of hyaluronic acid.

It’s not a shortcut. If anything, it reflects her broader philosophy that meaningful change happens gradually, and with intention.

For Dr. Decotiis, beauty isn’t about dramatic transformation. It’s about restoring a sense of control, where the external begins to reflect what’s happening internally. And for many of

her patients, addressing that final layer is what makes the entire process feel complete.

Dr. Sue DeCotiis is a triple board certified physician specializing in hormone optimization, medical weight loss, and longevity medicine. She is a frequent expert contributor across national media outlets including Fox News, CBS News, NBC News, Newsweek, and Women’s Health. Dr. DeCotiis sees patients both in person at her Manhattan private practice and via telemedicine.

u Learn more at drdecotiis.com or by email at info@drdecotiis.com

u For skin care products, visit drsueskincare.com

A&G DANCE COMPANY

DANCE AND ART CAMP IN SOUTHAMPTON VILLAGE

“I couldn’t be more thrilled to be kicking off another summer program for our campers,” said Miss Gail of A&G Dance Company, smiling from the steps of the historic Southampton Cultural Center. Back for their second year in the heart of Southampton village, A&G Dance Company is offering its summer program for kids ages 5 to 9. Kids can expect days filled with a focus on ballet, hip hop, tap, and jazz as they learn steps and techniques in SCC’s theater. Summer activities include a full spectrum of dance and art as well as daily trips across the street from A&G’s home to the beautiful Agawam Park, where kids will play in the fresh air.

Included in their day will be theater time, teaching etiquette as well as performance, technique, and improv. Each week finishes with a dance showcase in SCC’s theater, where parents can see their children perform onstage and show off their new skills and talents.

Adjacent to the theater, the art gallery will be used by Mr. Adam to teach painting, drawing, and clothing design. And this summer, the gallery will host an exhibition of his original work.

Children can practice painting and drawing in the center of a working gallery space and learn what it takes to display their own work for the world to see.

Miss Gail and Mr. Adam are both 20-year veterans of the dance and arts scene in the Hamptons. They have always focused on inclusion, giving kids the opportunity to fall in love with dance and the arts. This is a program for all children with a spark for creativity. Enrollment is filling up quickly, with weekly spaces capped at 20 students. Financial scholarship is available for children that need the support through a generous donation program from the Hamptons community, which A&G has called home since establishing itself as a leader in dance and the arts more than 20 years ago.

All inquiries can be directed to Gail Baranello, and she will welcome your children with her famous smile on her face all summer long. Can’t wait to see you there.

A&G Dance Company @agdancecompany

MEET DR.ROUMIANA TZVETKOVA, DDS, DMD

Artistically emulating nature with minimally invasive and high-end dentistry.

• Bonding

• Curodont

• Veneers

• Implants

• Motto Clear Aligners

• GLO Whitening

• Zirconia crown and bridge

• And more!

DR. LUIS MACIAS

THE SURGEON REDEFINING MODERN AESTHETICS

In today’s fast-moving world of aesthetic medicine, where procedures trend overnight and patients arrive more informed than ever, Marina Del Rey plastic surgeon Dr. Luis Macias stands out for his blend of technical mastery, artistic precision, and forward-thinking innovation.

Though his days are packed with surgeries, consultations, teaching, and research, he describes his schedule with a calm, matter-of-fact ease. “Mondays and Wednesdays are operative for me,” he explains. “Tuesdays and Thursdays, I am seeing patients in the office. And then on Fridays, I’m with my kids.”

It’s a rhythm that keeps him grounded as his reputation continues to soar on an international scale.

SHAPED BY HIS SERVICE

Dr. Macias was born in Chicago, raised in Los Angeles, and shaped profoundly by his early service in the U.S. Marine Corps. As an avionics technician working on the F/A 18 Hornet fighter jet, he reached the rank of sergeant before using the G.I. Bill to pursue his undergraduate and medical degrees at UCLA. That rare combination of discipline, mechanical expertise, and intellectual rigor became the backbone of his surgical career.

“What drew me to plastic surgery,” he recalls, “was that we basically learned how to operate in the body from head to toe and we had to be masters of anatomy. There was fine technical skill, and that’s what drew me to plastic surgery.”

His training took him to some of the most prestigious institutions in the country: the Mayo Clinic for residency in plastic and reconstructive surgery, the University of Pennsylvania for a fellowship in microvascular reconstruction, and later USCMarina for advanced aesthetic training under renowned surgeon Dr. Grant Stevens. Today, he gives back to the next generation as the aesthetic program director at the University of Southern California’s Keck School of Medicine, teaching residents and fellows the art and discipline of aesthetic surgery.

MEANINGFUL, NATURAL, AND LASTING RESULTS

But it’s his innovative approach to facial procedures, especially the facelift, that has become his signature.

At a time when social media popularizes buzzwords like “ponytail lift” or “swift lift,” Dr. Macias is focused on techniques that deliver meaningful, natural, and lasting results. He often performs a deep-plane facelift combined with advanced deep-neck work, a technique increasingly recognized for its ability to refine the jawline and rejuvenate the entire lower face.

“Going underneath the platysma and getting rid of some of the fullness—you can get a little bit more of a chiseled jawline by doing that,” he explains.

NEW WAVE OF SURGEONS

He is also part of a new wave of surgeons embracing submandibular gland reduction, an approach that has existed for decades but only recently gained widespread acceptance due to advances in tools and safety. He lectures on this work nationally, helping peers incorporate the technique more confidently into their own practices.

Cultural attitudes toward cosmetic surgery have evolved dramatically over his career, something he attributes partly to media and partly to shifting generational attitudes. “Now everyone just kind of talks about it. It’s nothing. And it’s super-accepted,” he says. From reality shows to social platforms, transparency has become the new norm, and patients are seeking procedures at younger ages than ever before.

“The blend of art and science must be seamless.“

Dr.

Luis Macias

One notable shift has been among male patients. “It used to be 98 to 2,” he says of the ratio of women to men in aesthetic surgery. “Now it’s 80-20. Men are accepting surgery at a much higher rate.”

COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO BODY SCULPTING

In addition to facial surgery, Dr. Macias is known for his extensive work in breast and body procedures, including his pioneering 360 Mommy Makeover, a comprehensive approach that combines breast augmentation, no-drain tummy tuck, and fat transfer to sculpt the body in a single operation. He also emphasizes the crucial role of skin preparation and postoperative care, noting that he often combines surgery with lasers

and medical-grade skin care. “You don’t want a nice new couch and then have old, torn-up leather on it,” he says. “You want that surface to look youthful as well.”

Looking ahead, he believes the future lies in regenerative medicine. “Stem cells, peptides— regenerative medicine is where it’s at,” he says.

FROM PROCEDURE TO CRAFT

Despite the complexity of his work, the heart of Dr. Macias’s philosophy remains simple: The blend of art and science must be seamless. “Five different surgeons can do surgery on the same person and get five different results,” he explains. “You have to know what to look for.”

For Dr. Macias, that combination of deep knowledge, precise technique and artistic vision is what transforms surgery from procedure to craft. And it’s what continues to make his work stand out in an industry where excellence is measured in millimeters, but impact lasts a lifetime.

Dr.

Luis Macias aestheticmdr.com 310.574.2103

THE VISION BEHIND VOLUME UP

REDEFINING K-BEAUTY THROUGH CRAFTSMANSHIP, CONFIDENCE, AND PURPOSE

In the ever-evolving world of K-beauty— Korean beauty and skin care—where trends change rapidly and countless new brands emerge every year, standing out requires more than attractive packaging or viral marketing. For Volume UP, success has come from something deeper: authenticity, craftsmanship, and a genuine passion for beauty.

Built around the idea of helping people achieve “kissable skin” through a skin care ritual that inspires confidence and self-love, Volume UP has quickly developed a devoted following, particularly among consumers over 40 seeking effective and luxurious skin-care solutions.

At the core of the brand’s success is its signature Volume UP Time Block Serum, which combines 5% volufiline and 40% beta glucan. The serum has become the company’s breakout best seller, earning remarkable traction shortly after launch. Within just two months, and with limited marketing, the brand reached $10,000 in daily Amazon sales largely driven by the serum’s popularity.

Volufiline, a patented ingredient developed by French company Sederma, is known for helping stimulate the formation of fat cells and thicken existing ones in the dermis, helping plump and firm the skin from within. This makes it particularly appealing for softening fine lines, wrinkles, and sunken areas of the face. Beta-gucan, sourced from mushrooms known as split-gill or Schizophyllum commune, is widely respected in skin care for its soothing and moisture-retention properties.

“Beta-glucan is known to be even more hydrating than hyaluronic acid and suitable for all skin types,” Volume UP’s founder Charles Choi explains. “I wanted ingredients that were proven effective, highly sought-after, but not yet oversaturated in the global market.”

Choi intentionally paired beta glucan with volufiline to create balance within the formulations, helping minimize potential ir ritation while maximizing hydration and comfort.

But while the formulas themselves are highly effective, Choi believes skin care is about far more than ingredients alone.

“We believe brands should think about the full customer experience,” he says. “From the moment someone receives the package in the mail, to the first impression of the bottle and packaging, to how the product feels on the skin—every detail matters.”

That philosophy has become one of the defining charac teristics of the brand. In a beauty market where minimalistic packaging often dominates, Volume UP intentionally takes a different approach.

“Many brands use simplicity as an excuse to reduce manu facturing costs,” Choi says candidly. “I believe beauty should feel beautiful, purposeful, and desirable. Customers are not only paying for the formula. They are paying for the crafts manship, the presentation, and the experience.”

His understanding of the American market has also played a major role in shaping the brand’s identity. Having spent much of his life in North America, including years living in both Vancouver and New York, Choi developed a strong understanding of what American consumers respond to aesthetically and emotionally.

“That year we made four times the sales compared with the previous year,” he says.

Born and raised in Korea, Choi moved to Canada at age 14 after his family relocated for educational opportunities. Later, he attended the prestigious Parsons School of Design in New York City to study fashion, a field he had been passionate about since childhood.

However, life soon became far more difficult than expected.

After his father’s business suffered significant financial losses, the family’s financial stability disappeared. While attending Parsons, he found himself living with multiple roommates, struggling financially, and working late night shifts at a karaoke bar in New York’s Koreatown simply to survive.

The stress and uncertainty eventually led him back to Korea, where he taught English full-time before later returning to New York in an effort to complete school.

“I was exhausted all the time,” he recalls. “I was working night shifts, going to class with almost no sleep, and trying to figure out how to survive.”

Everything changed unexpectedly when he met an employee from Nature Republic, a Korean skin care company, who encouraged him to apply for a retail position.

“That was my first real experience in beauty,” he says. “I loved learning about ingredients, formulas, and talking to customers.”

His natural understanding of marketing and consumer behavior quickly became apparent. While working at Nature Republic, he realized the company had accumulated years of customer data through its rewards program but had never properly

When the Covid pandemic shut down New York, he continued working in the company warehouse while experimenting with online marketing campaigns that ultimately generated significant sales growth.

Those experiences became the foundation for what would later become Volume UP.

Today, the brand continues expanding globally. Volume UP products are now available not only in the U.S., but also in Canada, Australia, and the UAE, with launches planned for Saudi Arabia and Europe.

The company is also currently working toward entering major retail chains, including Ulta.

“Our goal is to become a truly global beauty brand,” he says.

Yet despite the rapid growth, the founder remains focused on something larger than business success.

The company currently works with the Salvation Army in Korea to support single mothers, and he hopes to expand those charitable efforts internationally as the brand grows.

“My dream is to help children in need around the world,” he says. “I want our brand to eventually donate a portion of profits from each country to help people within that country.”

For him, beauty is ultimately about creating value—not just products. “I don’t work for money,” he says. “I work to create something meaningful. I want to leave my name in this industry forever.”

u To learn more please visit: mimmua.shop

SKIN HEALTH IS THE NEW LUXURY

UNDERSTANDING THE STORY BEHIND THE SKIN

In today’s world of aesthetics, clients are constantly navigating a flood of trends, treatments, and technologies, many promising dramatic results with little explanation of what is actually appropriate for their individual skin concerns and long-term goals.

At Permanent Touch Cosmetics, the philosophy has always been rooted in education, personalization, and long-term skin health rather than quick fixes or trends.

Over the years, Permanent Touch Cosmetics has become a go-to destination for celebrities, public figures, brides, and professionals seeking sophisticated, natural-looking skin rejuvenation through advanced light-based technology and individualized treatment planning. Sharon Grasso, Permanent Touch’s founder, says one of the greatest honors of her career has been the trust clients place in her, including many who travel from across the country for treatment. “To have people trust you with their skin at that level truly means the world to me,” says Grasso.

Working alongside board certified dermatologists and plastic surgeons allows the Permanent Touch team to access the medical guidance and collaborative approach that is so important in helping clients better understand the many options available to them. Because while technology has dramatically changed the world of aesthetics, no single treatment is designed to do everything, and not every client requires the same approach.

Grasso has become known as a go-to skin strategist. Her clients call her “the skin whisperer” for her ability to understand the story behind the skin. With more than 25 years of experience specializing in advanced Sciton technologies, Grasso has built her reputation around creating customized treatment plans designed to support healthy, radiant skin over time.

Together with her team of experienced providers, Grasso has built an approach centered around education, consistency, and individualized care. “The first step is always listening,” says Grasso. “Understanding the client’s skin, lifestyle, goals, and expectations is one of the most important parts of the process. Every face—and every skin story—is different.”

In many cases, Grasso notes, clients begin with noninvasive antiaging procedures designed to improve overall skin quality and maintain a healthy, refreshed appearance before determining whether more aggressive procedures are even necessary. In other cases, treatments may be used to enhance or complement surgical outcomes by improving the health, tone, and texture of the skin itself. The focus, she says, is never simply correction—it is maintenance, prevention, and helping clients feel confident in their skin long term.

Located in the dermatology department of celebrity plastic surgeon Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg’s practice, Permanent Touch Cosmetics continues to blend advanced technology with a highly personalized approach to skin health and aesthetic care.

Because today, true luxury is about finding experi enced providers who take the time to understand the full picture and creating thoughtful, realistic treat ment plans that allow clients to look healthy and radiant—like the best version of themselves.

Sharon

Grasso, L.M.E., CLT, K.O.L.

Luminary, New York Ambassador for Sciton’s HEROic Skin Society 917.734.7378

permanenttouchcosmetics.com

DR. SHAWN SADRI

STAR QUALITY & VIP TREATMENT

IN A STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITY

Dr. Shawn Sadri and his extraordinary team provide a VIP experience every time you visit the NYC & Miami offices. When you choose our cosmetic and general dentistry services, you will enjoy a luxurious and comfortable atmosphere while receiving world-class dental treatment.

DRSHAWNSADRI

DR. KENNETH MARK

COSMETIC DERMATOLOGIST

MEET DR. MARK

Dr. Kenneth Mark, a world-renowned cosmetic dermatologist, prides himself on both his outstanding work and the relationships he builds with each patient. Although he manages four practices—in East Hampton, Southampton, New York City, and Aspen—Dr. Mark makes sure he embeds himself in each community, relying on patient referrals or, as he says, “good ol’ word of mouth” to acquire new patients. He is the sole physician at each location. “Most other practices operate like factories,” he said. “But we provide a VIP boutique experience for our patients. When they call, they know us, and we know them.”

This personalized aspect is what drew Dr. Mark to dermatology. “In my practice, I have treated the grandparents, the parents, the kids, and the grandkids,” he said. “I love the continuity of care aspect, and with fillers becoming so accepted, it’s fun to treat mothers and daughters.”

MASTER OF HIS CRAFT

After three years of training in dermatology at New York University, Dr. Mark completed a two-year fellowship with a cosmetic dermatology surgeon and a plastic surgeon to subspecialize in cosmetic procedures, plastic reconstruction, and minimally invasive Mohs micrographic skin cancer surgery.

During his education, he witnessed unprecedented advancements in the realm of dermatology, such as the development of lasers, Botox, and hyaluronic acid fillers, gaining unparalleled experience in the art of injectables. “All of what’s being done in dermatology today was brand-new when I was coming out of my residency,” he said.

HIS UNIQUE METHOD

Dr. Mark is famous for his “layering technique,” which involves strategically layering fillers over time and at different depths of the skin. This methodical approach not only minimizes the amount of filler required but also maximizes the longevity and efficacy of the results. “I don’t want to be doing the maximum amount. I want to do the optimal amount, and I’m certainly not in a rush to get it done in one visit. It is always a work of art in progress,” he emphasized. Although anyone can study this craft, full mastery involves an innate sense of facial aesthetics. “Some of it is having a good eye,” he explained.

NEW PROCEDURES: VOLUX, EMSCULPT NEO, AND MICRONEEDLING WITH PDGF

Allergan, the maker of Botox and Juvéderm fillers, chose Dr. Mark to join their faculty and train other doctors, which he has been doing for the past six years. He is also in the top 1 percent of Allergan’s accounts in the country. “Allergan is the number-one company for a reason. They’re not just sitting back and resting on their laurels,” he said. “Constantly learning and seeing new products hit the market and how they can make people look and feel better is one of the best things about my career.”

His favorites among the company’s innovations are Voluma and Volux, the first and only FDA approved hyaluronic acid fillers made for jawline definition and lifting.

Dr. Mark believes these advancements have created a paradigm shift in cosmetic dermatology. “It’s not just about lips and lines anymore,” he said. “It’s about thinking like an artist and sculpting the face. Twenty years ago, everyone who hit 50 was getting a facelift, but now, with tactful injections, those facelifts can be pushed off until 60 or 70.”

Dr. Mark also offers Emsculpt NEO, a cutting-edge body-contouring treatment that melts fat and builds muscle. One half-hour session is equivalent to 24,000 abdominal crunches.

The hottest new procedure, which has minimal to no downtime, is microneedling with platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF). This is not first generation microneedling. The procedure uses a technologically advanced microneedling device that, when combined with PDGF, is a game changer for fine lines, wrinkles, blotchiness, hyperpigmentation, and overall skin tone and texture.

FINDING BALANCE

Dr. Mark has a passion for extreme skiing. He fell in love with the sport as a child, visiting Jiminy Peak in Massachusetts and Mount Snow in Vermont. However, his favorite locale is Aspen. There, he laughs, women have been known to yell from the gondola at him, “Dr. Mark, I need Botox!”

“Traditionally, the Hamptons practice quiets down in the winter, and that gives me the opportunity to do a lot of skiing,” he explained. “I just love the beauty of Aspen, the food, the friendships, and sense of community.”

Dr. Mark’s passion for skiing is shared by his family as well. His son has become an accomplished skier and recently hiked the Highlands Bowl at age 6. It was a thrill for Dr. Mark to ski with his son and his classmates as they encouraged each other to overcome the challenges of Mother Nature.

It’s also been extremely satisfying for him to see his wife, Aleksandra, embed herself into the community, teaching a Hot HIIT exercise class. “They nicknamed her the ‘velvet sledgehammer!’” he said.

Dr. Kenneth Mark kennethmarkmd.com

DR. STEVEN FOX

THE FATHER OF DENTISTRY IN THE 21ST CENTURY

“Treat a patient as you would a member of your own family.“

Dr. Steven

While many professionals claim to be the most highly qualified cosmetic dentist in the world, it’s Dr. Steven Fox who is internationally known for revolutionizing oral care. He’s called upon by a who’s who of royals, celebrities, and other luminar ies to design perfect veneers, achieve outstanding whit ening, and perform more complicated reconstructions like implants. Dr. Fox is the only cosmetic dentist in the U.S. who has served on the faculty of the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, New York University’s College of Dentistry, and on a technology board at the University of Pennsylvania.

Dr. Fox, who was dubbed the “father of dentistry in the 21st century” by a Nobel laureate for chemistry, sat down with Social Life to tell us more about all the good work he is up to these days.

You’ve worked with some of the most prominent names and oralcare companies in the industry. Can you tell us about this?

In partnership with the U.S. government and the American Dental Association, I developed many of the products used in oral care, from the back-end products used to ensure proper placement of ve neers and crowns to some of the formula tions that make toothpaste as advanced and effective as it is today. At my direction, my team has developed 68 patents in oral care. I collaborated with two Nobel Prize winners in chemistry and the heads of neuroscience at three pharmaceutical companies, and re ceived the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year award and the Medal of Freedom from U.S. senators.

I follow my father’s advice: Treat a pa tient as you would a member of your own family.

Fox

What are your patients focused on right now?

People want to look and feel their best. The first thing people see is another person’s teeth. And then there’s another person’s breath. These things can make or break an experience. I am focused on creating a beautiful smile and on the oral

How do you help with bad breath?

—as doctors call bad breath—bad taste, and periodontal disease occur because of a bacterial imbalance in the mouth. It’s possible for a bacterial infection to travel through the bloodstream to other areas of the body and contribute to systemic disease. I recently founded Fox Fresh Breath Dental, a highly specialized New York City practice where we use high-tech diagnostic equipment to analyze the bacterial imbalances of the mouth and apply evidence-based prescribed treatments, developed over the course of 40 years, to cure bad breath and treat periodontal disease with a nonsurgical solution. Bad breath is eliminated, and other potential health issues may be reduced or avoided altogether. Essentially I treat wellness, and wellness potentially adds

Steven R. Fox, D.D.S.

110 East 40th Street, Suite 406 New York City

Drstevefox.com Foxfreshbreathdental.com Akelosinc.com

DR. MUSTAFA AHMED

COMBINING SURGICAL EXPERTISE AND GLOBAL TRAINING TO ADVANCE BODY CONTOURING AND COSMETIC SURGERY IN LAS VEGAS

At a time when personal confidence and physical wellness are closely connected, Dr. Mustafa Ahmed, founder of Las Vegas Body Sculpting and Aesthetics, has built a practice dedicated to helping patients achieve natural, transformative results through advanced surgical techniques and personalized care.

A triple board certified physician in general surgery, surgical critical care, and internal medicine, Dr. Ahmed brings an unusually broad medical background to cosmetic surgery and aesthetic medicine. He completed his medical education at the Ohio State University College of Medicine, followed by residency training in internal medicine at Mount Carmel Medical Center and general surgery at Morehouse School of Medicine. He later completed fellowship training in bariatric surgery and surgical critical care, further strengthening his expertise in complex surgical care and patient safety.

Early in his career, Dr. Ahmed focused heavily on weight loss and bariatric surgery, helping patients achieve dramatic health improvements through surgical weight reduction. However, he soon noticed an important pattern among many of his patients.

“After losing a significant amount of weight, many of my patients were healthier and happier, but they were left with excess skin that affected their confidence,” Dr. Ahmed explains. “I realized that helping them complete that transformation meant addressing the physical changes that come after major weight loss.”

That realization inspired him to expand his surgical expertise into body contouring and cosmetic surgery, where he could help patients complete their transformation. Procedures such as tummy tucks, liposuction, breast lifts, and breast augmentation became central to his practice, particularly for patients who had undergone major weight loss or experienced body changes after pregnancy.

Today, Dr. Ahmed specializes in body-contouring procedures designed to restore natural body proportions and improve confidence. His background in both bariatric and general surgery gives him a unique perspective when treating patients who have undergone significant weight changes.

Las Vegas has become one of the most competitive cosmetic surgery markets in the country, attracting patients from across the U.S. and internationally. In this dynamic environment, Dr. Ahmed has distinguished his practice through a commitment to continuous education and hands-on training with leading surgeons around the world.

Rather than relying solely on traditional training pathways, he regularly travels internationally to refine his techniques. His advanced training has taken him to Italy, Turkey, Portugal, Brazil, Mexico, and throughout the U.S., where he studies with surgeons known for excellence in specific procedures.

“I believe surgeons should never stop learning,” he says. “Whenever I identify someone who is doing exceptional work in a particular technique, I make it a priority to study with them and bring those insights back to my patients.”

Inside Las Vegas Body Sculpting and Aesthetics, Dr. Ahmed works with a dedicated team focused on delivering a highly personalized patient experience. Every surgical journey begins with a detailed consultation designed to fully understand a patient’s goals and expectations.

During these consultations, Dr. Ahmed uses a visual approach to ensure clear communication and realistic outcomes. “I have patients stand in front of the mirror and show me exactly what they would like to change,” he explains. “Then I walk them through what can realistically be achieved and how we can accomplish that safely.”

Using surgical planning and detailed markings, he explains how procedures such as liposuction, muscle tightening, and skin removal can reshape the body while maintaining natural contours. “Patient safety always comes first,” he says. “Careful preparation and patient selection are essential for achieving the best outcomes.”

He has also seen a steady increase in male patients seeking cosmetic procedures, reflecting evolving attitudes toward personal appearance and professional confidence. “Men today are increasingly comfortable investing in their health and appearance,” Dr. Ahmed notes. “Looking refreshed and healthy can make a meaningful difference both personally and professionally.”

Looking ahead, Dr. Ahmed continues to expand his practice by incorporating advanced surgical techniques, minimally invasive technologies, and skin-tightening treatments that complement body-contouring procedures.

“For me, cosmetic surgery is about more than appearance. It’s about helping patients feel like the best version of themselves.“

Dr. Mustafa Ahmed

Yet his mission remains straightforward: combine surgical precision, medical expertise, and individualized care to help patients feel confident in their own skin.

“For me, cosmetic surgery is about more than appearance,” Dr. Ahmed says. “It’s about helping patients feel like the best version of themselves.”

Las Vegas Body Sculpting lvbodysculpting.com

SOCIETY

TOM NARO

JEAN SHAFIROFF INTERVIEWS THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE SOUTHAMPTON FRESH AIR HOME

Tom, can you tell us a little about the history of The Southampton Fresh Air Home?

Yes, but first I want to thank you for this interview and for your support of our work over the years.

This year The Southampton Fresh Air Home is celebrating its 125th season of camp. Founded in 1901 by a group of women who wanted to share the benefits of sun and ocean air with children with physical disabilities, the organization began with just 10 children. Today, SFAH serves more than 150 children and young adults each summer and has reached thousands over the years. Our campers, primarily from low- and middle-income families, come largely from New York City, and Nassau and Suffolk Counties. They live with a range of physical disabilities, including muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, osteogenesis imperfecta, and spinal cord injuries.

What is The Southampton Fresh Air Home’s primary program, and what other programs do you offer?

Our cornerstone program is our summer sleepaway camp, but our work extends year-round. In the fall, we offer retreat weekends, day trips, and social gatherings. During the winter and spring months, we bring programming directly to our participants through off-site excursions designed to foster connection and provide access to experiences that might otherwise be out of reach. Across all seasons, our Life Skills Lab workshops focus on essential topics such as independent living, personal care management, job readiness, and post-secondary education.

What is The Southampton Fresh Air Home’s primary source of revenue? What are your primary fundraising events?

As a small nonprofit, approximately 90 percent of our annual revenue comes from donations and fundraising events. We are fortunate to host two beloved signature events each summer: the Decorators-DesignersDealers (D-D-D) sale and auction on May 30, and the American Picnic on June 27. Both enjoy a loyal and enthusiastic following.

The Decorators-Designers-Dealers sale is a truly unique experience. Throughout the year, we collect gently used furniture and decorative items, and each spring, the camp is transformed into a designer showhouse for a three-and-a-half-hour sale. This year, we are introducing a new approach—creating more of a “treasure hunt” experience by spreading standout pieces across all 11 decorated rooms, rather than concentrating them in just a few spaces. There are cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and a fantastic auction as well.

The American Picnic is one of the few Hamptons events designed for the entire family. Parents can bring children of all ages to enjoy carnival games, popcorn, cotton candy, snow cones, stilt walkers, food trucks, a classic barbecue, and a silent disco. The evening will once again be graciously hosted by Margie and Michel Loeb, who will serve as honorary chairs. To honor our 125th anniversary this year, the evening will conclude with a spectacular drone show featuring custom animations. I am so grateful to our board and all of our generous supporters.

ABOUT TOM NARO:

Thomas Naro joined the Southampton Fresh Air Home staff in 2008 to assist with fundraising events. In 2009, he became business manager. In 2011, he was appointed executive director. Tom has a BFA from New York University. Prior to the Fresh Air Home, he worked at The Joseph Papp Public Theater/New York Shakespeare Festival. Naro was a member of the Association of Theatrical Press Agents and Managers and served on its board of directors for several years. He served as chairman and treasurer of the Surfrider Foundation, Eastern Long Island Chapter, an organization dedicated to protecting oceans and beaches.

ABOUT JEAN SHAFIROFF:

Jean Shafiroff is a philanthropist, advocate, TV host, and the author of the book Successful Philanthropy: How to Make a Life by What You Give. She is a volunteer leader of several charitable causes, with a focus on health care, underserved populations, women’s rights, and animal rights. She serves on several

charity boards: Southampton Hospital Foundation, NYC Mission Society, Casita Maria, the New York Women’s Foundation, French Heritage Society, Couture Council of the Museum at FIT, and Global Strays, an international animal welfare charity co-founded by her youngest daughter. A Catholic, Shafiroff served on the Jewish Board for 28 years and is now an honorary trustee. She also serves on the Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation’s Honorary Board and is an advisory board member of the Historical Society of Palm Beach County. She is also the producer and host of the TV show Successful Philanthropy, which airs six times a week through LTV studios in East Hampton and the surrounding community. During the pandemic, she served as national spokesperson for the American Humane Society’s Covid-19 program, which raised over $1,000,000 to feed homeless animals in shelters across the U.S. She holds two degrees: a B.S. in physical therapy from the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Columbia University and an M.B.A. in finance from the Graduate School of Business at Columbia University.

JEAN SHAFIROFF MOST GLAMOROUS GOWNS

We are proud to report that Jean Shafiroff, philanthropist, TV host and author of Successful Philanthropy: How to Make a Life by What You Give, was on Tatler magazine’s Most Glamorous Gowns of 2025 list. Only 24 people in the world made the list, including Princess Catherine of Wales along with other international royals and celebrities. Here are just some of the gowns worn by Jean Shafiroff.

JEAN SHAFIROFF

MOST GLAMOROUS GOWNS

SOCIAL SAFARI

WHAT TO SEE AND WHERE TO GO

ROBERT DE NIRO, GRACE HIGHTOWER, JOHN PAULSON, YOSHIKI, PRINCESS YASMIN AGA KHAN, PETER THOMAS ROTH, KIMBERLY PAIGE BLUHM, ARTHUR AIDALA, AND JACK LENOR LARSEN

Southampton Arts Center The Story of America: 1776–2026

Starting Memorial Day weekend, the Southampton Arts Center will celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with a thought-provoking exhibition titled “The Story of America: 1776-2026, a Celebration of Freedom and Independence.” The show will feature rare political campaign memorabilia from the Museum of Democracy’s Wright Family Collection that brings each era of our country’s history to life. The artifacts, including the American flag flown at George Washington’s inauguration, a Kellogg’s Corn Flakes cereal box promoting voting in the 1952 presidential campaign, and Richard Nixon’s toothpaste-stained bathrobe from the White House, give us a glimpse into the lives of America’s trailblazers. The show will run through July 18. On June 27, the center will host its Whimsy summer kickoff party. This year’s party has a salsa theme and will feature a Latin band, the Maria Raquel Quintet, as well as trained dancers who will bring guests onto the floor for a night of dancing and laughter in celebration of human expression and creativity. The night honors filmmaker Lana Jokel with the Community Leader Award. For tickets and more information, go to southamptonartscenter.org

Beautopia

the evening will celebrate art, design, and nature in radiant harmony. Guests can expect a dazzling night of cocktails, dinner by Hamptons Aristocrat, live entertainment, dancing under the stars, and an exclusive art auction featuring works by renowned global artists. The honorees of the evening are Sean Scully, an Irish-born artist whom The Guardian recently declared the “greatest abstract painter alive,” and Bruce Horten, an old friend of Larsen and Scully. longhouse.org

Arthur Aidala

The Power Hour

LongHouse Reserve

LongHouse Reserve, founded by the much loved and much missed Jack Lenor Larsen, will host its summer benefit and art auction, dubbed “Beauto pia,” on Saturday, June 27. Set amid the stunning gardens of the East Hampton cultural institution,

Arthur Aidala celebrated 1,000 episodes of his radio show, The Power Hour, with a live broadcast from Times Square. The lawyer started on AM 970 four years ago, broadcasting five nights a week. “Sometimes it’s a little exhausting after a day in court, but it’s a lot of fun,” Aidala said. “It’s as New York as New York can get. I’m trying to make it different from other media.” Among his guests on the 1,000th episode were Megyn Kelly, Geraldo Rivera, Rosanna Scotto, Lawrence Taylor, and Carol Alt. The two-hour event was broadcast live at USA Brooklyn Delicatessen on West 43rd Street.

John Paulson’s Birthday

Billionaire John Paulson celebrated his 70th birthday at a party hosted by his fiancée, Alina de Almeida, who is also the mother of his 1-year-old daughter, Jacqueline. Although Paulson

owns a $110 million, 10-bedroom, 30,000-square-foot oceanfront mansion in Palm Beach, Alina gave the party at P.F. Chang’s, the popular Chinese restaurant Paulson owns in Palm Beach Gardens. Among the 150 friends enjoying the Chinese feast and acrobatic dance performance were Dana and Robert Kraft, who owns the New England Patriots; Hilary and Wilbur Ross, the former Secretary of Commerce; Amy and Bret Baier, the Fox News anchor; Andrea and Steve Wynn, the Las Vegas casino owner; Christine and Steve Schwarzman; Kimberly and Neil Bluhm; Karen and Richard LeFrak; Suzanne and Woody Johnson, who owns the New York Jets; Lynne and Steve Ross, who owns the Miami Dolphins; and Amy and John Phelan, former Secretary of the Navy.

The Winter Show The East Side House Settlement

Elliot Hightower De Niro brought his father, Robert De Niro, to see his painting Caribbean Colors at Isabelle Bscher’s Galerie Gmurzynska at The Winter Show, hosted by the Park Avenue Armory, attended also by Chaz Dean, Kerry and Dr. Anthony Berlet, Cynthia Rowley, and Peter Marino, among other notables. The two-time Oscar winner, whose parents were notable painters, could not hold back his paternal pride as he asked the gallery’s photographer to take a series of photos with his son’s painting. The work by Elliot, who has been diagnosed with autism, was shown alongside works by Wifredo Lam, Roberto Matta, and Marjorie Strider. He sold his first work at the preview party, which benefited the East Side House Settlement. The De Niros were all invited to Bscher’s Dan Basen show, “New York Underground in the 1960s,” at Galerie Gmurzynska in the Fuller Building at 595 Madison Ave. The show was accompanied by the first monograph on Basen, who took his own life in 1970 at age 30. The artist was a major part of the 1960s art scene. Basen moved between Happenings, Nouveau Réalisme, Pop, Assemblage, and Experimental Cinema while maintaining close ties with Beat poets and American Surrealists. Bscher met with Grace Hightower, Elliot’s mother, about giving Elliot his own show for some of his 200 colorful abstract works to announce the founding of The Helen and Elliot Hightower De Niro Foundation, which will provide a creative safe space for neurodivergent young adults 18 and older. gmurzynska.com

Y by Yoshiki × Yoshitomo Nara

Artist Yoshitomo Nara and musician Yoshiki, both listed on Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World for 2025, announced a new wine collaboration with winemaker Robert Mondavi Jr. The Y by Yoshiki × Yoshitomo Nara Collaboration Wine brings together Yoshiki’s Napa Valley wine brand and Nara’s globally celebrated artwork, which appears on the bottle’s labels. These include a painting of a puppy playing imaginary drums with two doggie bones and a mischievous monkey sitting on a duck. Nara told me, “Having a small illustration not only on the label but the cap is a unique attribute that is not often seen in wines.” This marks the first collaboration for Yoshiki since he created a clothing line with Stella McCartney in 2021. “I am overwhelmed with emotion to be able to work on something like this with Nara,” Yoshiki told me. “It feels like a dream.” ybyyoshiki.com

Princess Yasmin Aga Khan and Peter Thomas Roth

Hollywood legend Rita Hayworth, whose co-stars included Cary Grant and Gene Kelly, suffered from earlyonset Alzheimer’s and died at 68 in 1987 due to complications associated with the disease. Her daughter, Princess Yasmin Aga Khan, took care of the star in New York City and, after her diagnosis, founded a gala in her honor that has raised over $90 million since its inception in 1984. This year’s 41st edition of the Alzheimer’s Association Imagine Benefit honored the princess’s friend, skin-care mogul Peter Thomas Roth, for “his commitment to the mission and his impact on raising awareness and funding for care and research.” She added that Alzheimer’s remains a national crisis, affecting over 7 million Americans, including over 427,000 New Yorkers. alz.org

COSTUME ART MET GALA

At the opening of the Met’s “Costume Art” exhibition, Anna Wintour reminisced about her first Met Gala. “This is my favorite day of the year, and also my most terrifying one, even several decades in,” she said. “I sometimes hear it said that my first Met Gala was in 1995, but that isn’t true. I first came here in 1982, when I was a fashion editor at New York magazine, and Diana Vreeland led the Costume Institute. My salary was such that I could barely afford a dress, much less the ticket, but my editor generously paid my way into the Great Hall, where, in those days, one could stand to be on hand as the celebrities exited their dinner. In other words, the cheap seats. I was thrilled.”

“I went to Bergdorf’s, I shut my eyes, and I bought a beautiful Saint Laurent cocktail dress for $900, several times my rent. I was a nobody that night, but it meant the world to me, a foreigner who had arrived in New York not so long before, to be part of something so important to the city, and to the daunting world of fashion where I was making my way. I tell you all of this to help explain why it is so meaningful and full circle for me to be here to celebrate the dedication of the new Condé M. Nast Galleries, made possible by the incredible generosity of the Newhouse family, named for the founder of the company that has been a home for me, and for thousands of other working creative people, for nearly 120 years.” The night raised a record-breaking $41 million.

metmuseum.org

CONDÉ M. NAST GALLERIES

The exhibition, “Costume Art,” inaugurates the Costume Institute’s Condé M. Nast Galleries, a 12,000-square-foot space that previously functioned as a gift shop. The five rooms are nestled between the Egyptian and Greek and Roman galleries, front and center when you enter the famed Great Hall. It’s quite a step up from its previous basement locale, and an elevation of fashion’s place within the museum, now physically equivalent to The Met’s other storied collections. As Andy Warhol said, “Fashion is more art than art is.” The gala was chaired by Beyoncé, Nicole Kidman, Venus Williams, and Anna Wintour. The night’s honorary chairs were Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez Bezos.

“Costume Art” explores the dressed body, placing sartorial pieces beside hundreds of sculptures, paintings, photographs, drawings, and more from the museum’s collections. Andrew Bolton, curator in charge, displays 13 forms of the body, including the naked and nude form, the classical and abstract figure, and the pregnant and anatomical body. The show reveals fashion as an embodied art form and celebrates the multiplicity and universality of corporeal experiences. The exhibition will run through January 10, 2027.

THE SOCIAL REGISTER

Lindenthal is a New York City–based technology executive and the Manhattan editor for Social Life magazine. In her spare time she enjoys family, friends, running, reading, philanthropy, and fashion.

j Fund for Park Avenue Reception

Décor brand Scully & Scully offered the perfect location for gathering on a warm spring day in April to celebrate all that the Fund for Park Avenue does to maintain the beautiful grassy tree beds and tulips that make the famed avenue one of the most beautiful in New York. Guests sipped on rosé and enjoyed finger sandwiches as they discussed upcoming summer travel and admired Scully & Scully’s beautifully ornate home furnishings.

k The American Friends of the Louvre 2026 New York Gala

The American Friends of the Louvre 2026 New York Gala was held on April 19 at the iconic Rainbow Room. Guests

gathered for an elegant evening of dining and dancing while honoring individuals who have made lasting contributions to contemporary art, design, and philanthropy, and celebrating the continued support of the Louvre Museum.

l The Save Venice Gala 2026

The Save Venice Gala 2026, Un Ballo in Maschera, returned to the Plaza Hotel on April 17 for its annual benefit, themed “Celestial Serenissima.” Sponsored by Oscar de la Renta, Graff, and Tilt Beauty, the evening welcomed celebrities, philanthropists, and fashion-industry leaders who gather each year to raise funds for the preservation and restoration of Venice. Guests enjoyed a glamorous night of dining, music, and dancing inspired by Venetian masquerade traditions.

SPARK HAMPTONS SPRING SALON

There is a special kind of energy that fills the Hamptons when the New York creative crowd starts heading east for the season. On April 18, that feeling was alive at The HUB in Bridgehampton during Spark Hamptons Spring Salon.

The event supported The Retreat, the East End’s important organization for survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking. Guests sipped chilled wine, enjoyed fresh sushi, and browsed a sharp pop-up from The Retreat’s All Against Abuse boutique. There were designer handbags, one-of-a-kind hats, and plenty of pieces worth a second look. On the wall, an original painting by artist Anahi DeCanio waited as the live auction highlight.

The afternoon came alive with performances that felt personal and warm. Angela LaGreca, Spark Hamptons’ co-publisher and editor, kept things moving with her warm and polished touch. She was joined onstage by Joy Behar, Paul Hecht, and Marsin Mogielski for a lively reading from Behar’s play Get Me Teresa Caputo, bringing her quick wit and laughter to the room. Then Rolonda Watts took the stage, moving smoothly between sharp stand-up comedy and heartfelt stories from her forthcoming memoir. Randy Hemming shared a personal New York tale that felt right at home with this city-to-shore crowd. Brian Mott read from his Poetry for Chaos series and ended with a touching tribute to his husband, Southampton

town trustee Jimmy Mack. Throughout it all, Lenny Babbish sat at the piano, filling the space with just the right music.

The afternoon always came back to why we were there. Cate Carbonaro, executive director of The Retreat, joined Behar and Angela LaGreca for a straightforward talk about the organization’s daily work. They covered legal help, mental health support, housing, and the growing need to do even more. Behar, who has long backed The Retreat and often uses her time on The View to speak up for the cause, put it simply: The best kind of Hamptons style is about showing up for each other.

Familiar faces from the East End scene filled the room, including Spark Hamptons co-publisher Ty Wenzel, Bonita DeWolf, and The HUB co-owner Michael Catalano. From The Retreat side, director of development Elise Trucks and Gigi Albinson, who runs the All Against Abuse boutique at Bridgehampton Commons, were there representing the team on the ground.

This Spring Salon felt like the perfect warm-up. Mark your calendar now for The Retreat’s Summer Gala on June 6, 2026, at the Southampton Arts Center. It is already shaping up to be the event of the season.

To help The Retreat keep doing its important work, visit: allagainstabuse.org

NORTH FORK LUXURY

LAUGHS FOR A CAUSE

AN EVENING OF COMEDY, HOPE, AND PURPOSE

On Saturday, June 21, Father’s Day weekend, the Gitty Foundation for Metastatic Breast Cancer Research will bring its fourth major fundraising event and its first in the Hamptons, to the Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center on Main Street. The evening will feature an unforgettable comedy show starring internationally acclaimed comedian Elon Gold, along with special guests.

Dr. Gitty Leiner, a three-time breast cancer survivor who has been fighting stage 4 metastatic breast cancer since 2018, knows what it means to fight for life, for time, and for the people you love. Her journey has included a double mastectomy, radiation, multiple surgeries, ongoing chemotherapy medication, scans and checkups every four months, and most recently, kidney surgery. Through it all, she has continued to work, heal, raise her daughter, and live with strength, faith, and purpose.

“I know what it means to fight every day,” Dr. Leiner says. “There are days when I am scared, exhausted, and in pain. But every day, as a single mother, I choose to keep going because I have to be here for my daughter, and I want to give her the best life possible. I choose joy. I choose laughter. I choose life.”

The love for her daughter is the heartbeat of the Gitty Foundation. It gives Dr. Leiner the strength to keep turning life’s hardest chapters

into courage, purpose, and hope for others. Alongside the love and support of her partner, Philip Pravda, Dr. Leiner continues to build a life rooted in resilience, family, and purpose, surrounded by the people who show up when it matters most.

Dr. Leiner started the Gitty Foundation to help advance research that gives women facing metastatic breast cancer better treatments, greater possibilities, and more years with the people they love.

The foundation raises critical funds for metastatic breast cancer research led by Dr. Jacklyn Bromberg, Dr. Leiner’s oncologist and a leading physician-scientist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Dr. Bromberg has dedicated more than 20 years to breastcancer care and research, with a special focus on metastatic disease. She will attend the June 21 event in person to speak about her research and the urgent need to advance treatment options for women living with metastatic breast cancer.

For more information about the Gitty Foundation for Metastatic Breast Cancer Research, visit gittyfoundation.org. Tickets for “Laughs for a Cause” are available through the Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center box office and website. The Gitty Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and donations are tax deductible. To support the foundation directly, text GITTY to 53-555

It’s all about the finish.

BROADWAY BY THE SEA!

HAMPTONS SUMMER SONGBOOK UNVEILS ITS 2026 SEASON

b y e M ily y o

This summer, the acclaimed musical series Hamptons Summer Songbook by the Sea returns for another season, produced by Donna Rubin and Josh Gladstone, the creative director of LTV Studios in East Hampton.

This unique musical experience transforms LTV’s television studio into an intimate performance venue, where a standout lineup of celebrated cabaret and Broadway performers offer an up-close encounter with timeless music and live storytelling. The Songbook series offers a front-row seat to legendary music, interpreted by today’s finest performers in an unforgettable setting. Whether you are rolling off the beach or seeking an evening of sophisticated song, Hamptons Summer Songbook by the Sea is a go-to destination for live music in the Hamptons.

The exciting 2026 lineup features a dynamic roster of artists and musical evenings that promise to make this season one of the most memorable yet:

Sunday, June 28: Season Premiere starring Norm Lewis. Saturday, July 11: Here’s to Life starring Ann Hampton Callaway. Saturday, July 18: Dreaming of a Song: The Music of Hoagy Carmichael starring Klea Blackhurst and Billy Stritch.

Saturday, July 25:

starring Eric Yves Garcia, Maria Abous, and David Alpern.

Saturday, August 1: A Swell-Egant, Elegant Party starring Eric Comstock and Barbara Fasano, and hosted and produced by Laurence Maslon.

Saturday, August 22: Hey, Old Friend! A Cabaret Jubilee starring KT Sullivan, Mark Nadler, Christine Pedi, and Stephanie Pope.

Sunday, August 23: What’s Cooking? Where Every Song Comes With a Little Spice starring Pamela Morgan.

Saturday, August 29: A Musical Memoir starring Donna McKechnie.

Tickets for all summer performances are available through LTV Studios. Dates, artists, and program titles are subject to change.

Season Opening Event with reception (June 28)

VIP Café front row reserve seating (with drink ticket): $200, Gen eral admission: $150, $160 at the door.

All other summer 2026 performances

VIP Café front row reserve seating (with drink ticket): $120 ($125 at the door); general admission: $80, $85 at the door.

u For more information, please visit: ltveh.org

POLO IN THE HAMPTONS

BMW NORTH AMERICA

MATCH & EVENT 2026

SATURDAY

JULY 18 AND JULY 25

4–7 PM

900 LUMBER LANE, BRIDGEHAMPTON

JULY 18 HOSTED BY CHRISTIE BRINKLEY DRINKS & HORS D’OEUVRES BY LESSING’S

limited tickets available at P olo H am P tons . com

1.

Carrie Preston

5. Dr. Lawrence Piro

Elizabeth Segerstrom

6. Barbara Tober

Colleen Rein

7. Taylor Schreiber

Liev Schreiber

Dan Rosenstein

Famke Janssen

8. Manuel Palazzo

Joyce DiDonato

All images thanks to Patrick McMullan/PMC

1. Alyssa Bahel

Lynne Marshall

Denise Silva Dennis

Marit Molin

Lindsay LoBello Abraham

Hollis Rafkin-Sax

2. Alexa Cahill

3. Guests 4. Anne Berkowitch

Hollis Rafkin-Sax

Laurie Becker

5. Brooke Bohnsack

Nicholas Bohnsack

6. Chris Coffee

Decia Lazarian

7. Amy Leopold

Jonathan Leopold

8. Tathiana Teixeira

Alessandro Teixeira

9. Carol O’Connor

Lynne Marshall

Charlotte McKenna

Josh

A N E X P E R I E N C E M A D E

1. Marilyn Crawford

Lucia Hwong Gordon

Jane Schindler

Rob Rich

Jackie Siegel

Loida Lewis

Rona Yacoub

Vincent LeVien

Adrian Cruz

Oksana Lada

4. Debbie Dickinson

Jennifer Harrison Gomez

Tess Camacho

Citadel Cruz

5. Blair Shiel

Lauren Minford

6. Mary Hasznos

Romulo Aromin

Lisa Silhanek

Piet Sinthuchai

7. Marc Rosen

8. Mark Masone

Lauren Vernon

Rachel Mathews Guest

Brandon Corbman All images thanks to Rob Rich

Ron Asadorian

Mark Sagliocco for Rob Rich/SocietyAllure.com

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JUNE 6TH

10AM-2PM

HEARING THE OVARIAN CANCER WHISPER

Honoree Christine Baranski, Andrea Stark, Louise and Joe Isidori, Robbi Toll, Liz Feuer, Wendy Topkis, Kimberly Paige Bluhm, and Laine Siklos were among the guests at Hearing the Ovarian Cancer Whisper’s 24th “Time Is of the Essence” luncheon at The Beach Club in Palm Beach. HOW raises money for ovarian cancer research through the Dr. Robert C. Knapp Research Fellowship. The benefactors included Betsy Matthews, Eduarda Taylor, and Inlet Private Wealth. ovariancancerpbc.org

AMY GREEN THE GREEN VISION

Grammy-winner DJ Black Coffee, who has performed with Drake and Usher, and ecophilanthropist and designer Amy Green, founder of The Green Vision, hosted a concert and dinner at Marea in Jayma Cardoso’s Snow Lodge in the St. Regis Aspen. The elegant night featured a fashion show from Bronx Banco, who has dressed Jennifer Lopez, Millie Bobby Brown, and Lupita Nyong’o, and a preview of Green’s glamorous GIADA Vegetable Cashmere collection. giadahaute.com

AND

“PASSION

AND POWER” HARRIET NEWMAN COHEN

Celebrity divorce attorney and Barnard College alumnus Harriet Newman Cohen joined the college’s president, Laura Rosenbury, for a fireside chat as part of Barnard’s Authors’ Shelf series. Cohen, a legendary figure in family law, discussed her new memoir, Passion and Power: A Life in Three Worlds. Known for representing VIPs such as Tom Brady, Laurence Fishburne, and Andrew Cuomo, Cohen in her memoir gives a candid, humorous account of her most pivotal cases. csklawny.com

9:30 am - 12:30 pm | Bridgehampton,

A day of family fun including arts and crafts, water play, games, entertainment, food and more! Early access to the fair begins at 9 AM for premium ticket holders!

UTSAV CELEBRATES THE BENGALI NEW YEAR

Drew Barrymore, Bill Gates, Cynthia Nixon, Bernie Sanders, and a long list of Bollywood stars including Tamannaah Bhatia have all enjoyed the Indian cuisine at the restaurant Utsav in Times Square, which recently had a party to celebrate the Bengali New Year. Guests joined owner Nandita Khanna in enjoying a variety of unique Indian dishes, including their famous Kolkata fish fry, at the only spot in Manhattan to offer authentic Bengali cuisine. utsavny.com

MARCELLA GUARINO HYMOWITZ YOUTH AMERICA GRAND PRIX

Mick Jagger’s fiancée, former American Ballet Theatre ballerina Melanie Hamrick, and LoveShackFancy’s founder, Rebecca Hessel Cohen, were honored at this year’s Youth America Grand Prix Gala at Lincoln Center’s David H. Koch Theater. Former dancer and Knicks cheerleader Marcella Guarino Hymowitz reprised her role as the gala’s creative chair as over 100 global artists graced the stage, including Nicoletta Manni and Timofej Andrijashenko of La Scala Ballet and Berlin State Ballet’s Polina Semionova. yagp.org

REBECCA HESSEL COHEN,

VOLUMINOSITY BENTLEY MEEKER

Charles Saffati’s Carlton Fine Arts hosted the opening of Bentley Meeker’s lighting exhibition, “Voluminosity.” Guests including Annie Dietz, Laura Magic Weyl, Becca Gottlieb, DJ Jensen Meeker, Signe Drulla, Heather Tazza, and Bonnie Pfeifer Evans sipped Aphrodise sparkling rosé and perused the glowing installations. The lighting artist has exhibited his work at the Whitney and created installations for King Charles III, Michelle Obama at the White House, Paul McCartney, and Karl Lagerfeld. bentleymeekerart.com

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2026 YOUNG ANGELS GALA

Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation for Cancer Research brought New York’s young philanthropy, fashion, and social communities together for the 2026 Young Angels Gala at Crane Club in Manhattan. Hosted by Bianca Peters, Emmy-winning news anchor for Fox 5 NY, the gala honored Elaine Chamberlain, founder and CEO of LÁYN and the Stay in Your LÁYN Foundation. gabriellesangels.org

NYC SECOND CHANCE RESCUE

NYC Second Chance Rescue hosted its 6th annual Rescue Ball at The Lighthouse, Chelsea Piers in New York City honoring actor Ralph Macchio; Rob and Marisol Thomas, founders of Sidewalk Angels Foundation; and Dr. Tom Walker, all of whom received the Angel & Hero Award for their dedication to animal welfare. nycsecondchancerescue.org

THE 12TH ANNUAL WAXMAN LUNCHEON

The 12th annual Waxman Luncheon, benefiting the Samuel Waxman Institute for Aging & Cancer, took place in New York City. The fundraising event honored Mary Slattery and Alexandra Adame and featured a live Spring/Summer 2026 fashion presentation from the couture brand Safiyaa. waxmancancer.org

HOUSE OF VANDERBILT

Consuelo Vanderbilt Costin welcomed guests to an exclusive House of Vanderbilt gathering in Palm Beach, where the brand hosted a chic and intimate event in partnership with Riverside LC and Kajora Family Office Network. houseofvanderbilt.com

MARINA ST BARTH 20 YEARS IN BUSINESS

Marina St Barth, the luxury resort wear brand founded by Marina Cocher, marked its 20th year in business with a celebration at the brand’s Palm Beach, Florida location on Worth Avenue and toasted their new Southampton location open this summer. marina-stbarth.com

THE OLD BAGS LUNCHEON

The Center for Family Services Palm Beach County held their signature fundraiser, The Old Bags Luncheon at the iconic Breakers Palm Beach. Combining fashion, philanthropy, and social engagement, the 2026 OBL celebrity speaker was Priscilla Presley. The cultural icon, actress, and philanthropist brought her singular story and passion for advocacy to The Breakers ballroom. ctrfam.org

HEARST CASTLE

SAN SIMEON, CALIFORNIA

R. Couri Hay is Social Life’s travel editor and society columnist. He began his career at Andy Warhol’s Interview, and he has written for Town & Country and People. Hay also appears on CNN, PBS, Fox, and VH1 commenting on Hollywood. He lives in New York City and Southampton and is the CEO of his own PR firm.

While America has no royal family, we do have a real castle. Hearst Castle was the dream home of William Randolph Hearst, the powerful media mogul, with 115 gilded rooms, including 38 bedrooms, taking up 68,000 square feet in the main house alone. The estate eventually encompassed 250,000 acres, including a functioning ranch and the world’s largest private zoo. Immortalized as Xanadu in Orson Welles’s 1941 movie Citizen Kane, its true story falls squarely in the “You can’t make this up” category.

COLORFUL HISTORY

Hearst used the castle as his home, living there with his mistress, the actress Marion Davies, from the Roaring 1920s through 1947.

(Hearst was married, but his wife, Millicent, refused to grant him a divorce.) Hearst’s extensive wine cellar was especially popular during the Prohibition years, and they entertained the biggest Hollywood stars of the day. There was a saying in Hollywood that there were two groups of stars: those who had been to Hearst Castle and those who said they had been to Hearst Castle.

Clark Gable, Carole Lombard, and Charlie Chaplin were regular visitors. Cary Grant, Greta Garbo, Jean Harlow, Bob Hope, Mary Pickford, Jimmy Stewart, and Joan Crawford were among the guests at Hearst’s lavish parties, as were political figures like Winston Churchill, Franklin Roosevelt, and Calvin Coolidge, and notables such as George Bernard Shaw, P.G. Wodehouse, and Charles Lindbergh. Hearst was a prolific collector; among his valuable treasures was a trove of furs stored in the basement. Legend has it that Harpo Marx raided the fur vaults late one night, and in the morning, guests were greeted by the sight of the garden statues draped in opulent mink coats.

Hearst loved to show off his estate on horseback, tours dreaded by his famous guests, many of whom were not comfortable in the saddle. During one long trip, Clark Gable reportedly quipped, “When we get to the next brow of a hill, we’ll see L.A. over 200 miles away.” Hearst also loved to organize overnight camping expeditions on the vast grounds, trips so lavish they required more than a dozen pack mules to carry the supplies, which, in addition to the usual gear, included caviar and champagne. Hearst could be considered the original glamper.

GROUNDBREAKING FEMALE ARCHITECT

In 1919, Hearst commissioned architect Julia Morgan to design the castle, originally called “La Cuesta Encantada,” or The Enchanted Hill. Morgan, who was based in San Francisco, was the first independent female architect to have her own practice in California, the first woman to study architecture at the Ecole des Beaux Arts in Paris, and the first female winner of the AIA gold medal.

The two spent more than 20 years building Hearst Castle and the surrounding property and outbuildings, often incorporating European interiors and fixtures that Hearst saw on his travels and shipped to the U.S. The castle also housed one of the world’s largest private art collections. In the 2,500-square-foot Assembly Room, four 16th-century tapestries hang on the walls. These are the originals, the only known set still in existence. The Louvre in Paris has copies. When Hearst died in 1951, he left the entire property to Marion Davies, but she returned it to his family for a reported $1.

PUBLIC PARK ON THE CALIFORNIA COAST

Perched on a hill more than a quarter of a mile above the ocean along the Pacific Coast on scenic Highway 1 in San Simeon, California, the castle is midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, a perfect and picturesque four-hour road trip from either city. In 1958, the Hearst Corporation donated Hearst Castle to the state of California, making it one of the greatest sources of revenue for the

state’s park system. Hearst Castle now receives about 700,000 visitors per year to admire its unique majesty and extensive treasures.

The 123-acre estate is still home to breathtaking gardens and four noteworthy buildings, as well as astonishing collections of Greek and Roman antiquities, and European paintings, sculptures, and tapestries, plus magnificent historic Italian and Spanish carved ceilings that Hearst gathered during a lifetime of acquisitions.

The castle is so vast that you can’t really see it all in one swoop. There are 10 regular tours you can take, including of the grand rooms, upstairs suites, cottages, and kitchens. The outdoor Neptune Pool reopened recently after a two-year, $10 million restoration.

Built into a hilltop, the pool is surrounded by Italian-relief sculptures and Greco-Roman-style marble colonnades. The indoor Roman Pool has been dubbed the “most sumptuous swimming pool on earth” for its shimmering blue and gold glass tiles, Greek and Roman statues, and mosaic-tile patterns inspired by a 5th-century mausoleum in Ravenna, Italy.

ARTWORKS

Hearst purchased a number of paintings, sculptures, and antiquities to fill the house, outbuildings, and grounds, and most of his enormous art collection is still there to see; the venue today functions as a museum. A few highlights include Venus Italica, a sculpture by Antonio Canova once owned by Napoleon Bonaparte’s brother. Depicting an Italian Venus, the delicately detailed statue is considered a masterpiece. A grouping of four sculptures of Sekhmet, the Egyptian war goddess, date from the New Kingdom of Egypt, circa 1550–1070 BCE, and are the oldest works in the castle collection. Hearst purchased them at different times from different sources, and Morgan placed them together on an esplanade on the hill.

A lamp made from the Tiffany’s Orchid Vase was commissioned by Hearst’s mother, Phoebe Apperson Hearst. The silver vase won top prizes at the 1889 Paris Universal Exhibition, and after Phoebe purchased it, she had Tiffany convert it into a lamp and fabricate a shade. Decorated with enamel orchids, the vase is currently displayed in the visitor center, where you may study it closely. hearstcastle.org

All visitors are encouraged to explore the more than 123 acres surrounding the estate, with its lush gardens overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Inspired by Spanish and Portuguese villas, the grounds are laid out to resemble the Alhambra in Spain, and colorful ceramic tile is found throughout.

TALE OF TWO CASTLES

Amanda Hearst, the great-granddaughter of William Randolph Hearst, married movie director Joachim Rønning, whose credits include the Oscar-nominated Kon-Tiki, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales with Johnny Depp, and Maleficent: Mistress of Evil, starring Angelina Jolie. The three-day fairy-tale wedding began at Hearst Castle in San Simeon and ended with a dinner at the Chateau Marmont in Los Angeles, where the couple first met. Thus, the duo dubbed their nuptials “A Tale of Two Castles.” Amanda wore a white, pearl-encrusted, short dress by Viktor & Rolf to the rehearsal dinner in the Dairy Barn at the Hearst Ranch that had a Norwegian theme in honor of the groom’s native land. Event whiz Alison Mazzola brought in live deer with huge antlers for the guests to pose with before going into the barn that had two long tables for 150 guests. The ceiling was draped in blue silk, and the Norwegian flag was placed at one end of the space. An elaborate buffet was set up in front of a fireplace bedecked with greenery and flowers; the well-worn wooden tables were festooned with small vases of colorful field flowers.

The bride’s chic mother, Anne Hearst, in a navy blue column by Alexander McQueen, and her husband, Jay McInerney, greeted guests including Anne’s handsome son, Randy Hearst Harris, now married to Paula Porubcanova; her sisters, Victoria and Patricia Hearst; Sharon Bush and her daughters Ashley and Lauren Bush, who was with her husband, David Lauren, the son of designer Ralph Lauren; Jerry Bruckheimer; Paula and Tony Peck, Hollywood legend Gregory Peck’s son; Hilary and Bobby Marx, the son of the comedian Zeppo Marx and the stepson of Frank Sinatra; Stellene Volandes, the editor in chief of Town & Country; George Farias; Robert Zimmerman; Luigi Tadini; Amanda’s business partner Hassan Pierre; Lady Liliana and Lord William Cavendish, with

their daughter Georgiana; Anne and Chris Barish; Cornelia Bregman; a group of Anne’s friends from San Francisco; and a large contingent of Norwegians, including Joachim’s brother and parents. His father charmingly played the guitar and sang as part of his remarks. There was also an amusing toastmaster who introduced 20 friends who gave toasts throughout the evening.

THE BLACK TIE BALL

After the intimate wedding in one of the castle’s smaller cottages, the black-tie ball, organized by event maestro David Monn, started the following day with a reception on the castle’s terrace overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The bells in the twin towers rang out to announce the arrival of the bride and groom. Amanda was stunning in a white, sustainable dress with silhouetted flowers by Oscar de la Renta’s Fernando Garcia.

The dinner was held on a second terrace, with the castle’s magnificent facade as a backdrop. There were five tables laid with gold and white brocade tablecloths set with stunning china, centered by silver candelabras and bowls brimming with pastel-colored roses, fruit, and dripping vines of grapes. My favorite course was the titanic slice of caviar pie that kicked off the sumptuous dinner.

A highlight of the evening was when the groom sang a song he had composed to commemorate the occasion on the grand piano after giving a moving speech thanking the bride’s family for welcoming him into the clan.

The seated dinner was followed by dancing to a live orchestra in a Moroccan-themed open-air pavilion adjacent to the legendary Neptune Pool. After the first dance to the Disney classic, “When You Wish Upon a Star,” Amanda changed into an elegant sheath dress with a floating panel by Galvan; her chignon was secured by a wreath of diamond flowers.

After the dessert buffet, Amanda slipped into her going-away dress, a short pale pink confection printed with flowers by Giambattista. Then, after midnight, the radiant couple descended the castle’s grand staircase while the guests tossed pink rose petals as they drove away in a cream-colored vintage convertible to the property’s private airfield, where they zipped off to Hollywood for their first night together as Mr. and Mrs. Rønning.

But wait, there’s more: The wedding guests went on to the afterparty at the Hearst Ranch’s Senators House, below the Enchanted Hill, built by William Randolph Hearst’s father, Senator George Hearst, in 1878. We sat around bonfires, sipped more champagne, and nibbled on sinfully delicious Mexican fare into the wee hours.

THE HEARST CASTLE PRESERVATION FOUNDATION

As one of the world’s most popular historic castles, Hearst Castle requires constant upkeep and preservation. The nonprofit Hearst Castle Preservation Foundation was established to help preserve and restore the collection’s 25,000 artifacts. Donors enjoy a fundraising weekend of festivities every year, where they can swim in the fabled outdoor Neptune Pool. Bragging rights, priceless. Members of the Hearst family, including Anne Hearst McInerney, her

children, Amanda Hearst Rønning and Randy Hearst Harris, and their cousin Lydia Hearst, help run the foundation’s fundraising efforts. Hearst Castle also issues special events permits for private events and weddings.

HONORED AT THE BALL

Patricia Hearst was honored last October at the Hearst Castle Preservation Foundation Benefit weekend. The annual Hearst Castle Preservation Foundation benefit raises funds for the estate, which was donated to California in 1958. Director John Waters, who cast Patricia in five of his movies, drove up from Los Angeles for the occasion. “It’s great, I don’t have to give a speech,” Waters said, but he was called up anyway before such other guests as Talking Dead host Chris Hardwick, his wife Lydia Hearst, Candace Bushnell, Ripple founder Chris Larsen, Patrick McMullan, Stephanie and Jeremy Bronfman, Janna Bullock, and yours truly. “I don’t even know what I said,” Waters confided. The crowd loved it.

Waters said, “Patricia looked very happy, and that’s what I like to see.” People still call her Patty. “She knows it’s a losing battle,” Waters said. One guest sitting next to Patricia revealed, “My family owned the Hibernia bank that she robbed.” Her sister Anne, the foundation’s chair, said, “My grandfather was an exceptional collector, and it’s an honor to help restore and preserve the over 50,000 works of art and antiquities at the castle for the public to enjoy.” Jay McInerney, who has a new novel, See You on the Other Side, which came out in April from Knopf, said the annual wine tasting was postponed several hours this year. “In years past, everyone was too hungover to attend,” he said. hearstcastlepreservation.org

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

Located amid a beautiful stretch of central California coastline, San Simeon is a great place to explore once you’ve seen the castle. Outdoorsy folks will love hiking, biking, camping, walking, and boating at the San Luis Obispo State Parks.

ELEPHANT SEAL BOARDWALK

Almost 20,000 elephant seals frolic on the beach just south of the Piedras Blancas lighthouse, a few miles from the castle, and it is definitely worth a visit. The seals are there year round, but the best time to visit is from October to May, with the highlight being the birthing and breeding season in January and February. The Elephant Seal Boardwalk, open to the public and free of charge, is a great place to view the seals from a safe distance and makes for an especially delightful family outing. Docents are on site to answer questions. elephantseal.org

PIEDRAS BLANCAS LIGHTHOUSE

Built in 1870 and still in operation today after a major restoration in 2010, the Piedras Blancas lighthouse offers tours and special events throughout the year, including whale-watching tours. piedrasblancas.org

MONTEREY BAY NATIONAL

MARINE SANCTUARY

Covering 350 miles of California coastline, the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is the largest national marine sanctuary in the U.S. There’s a Coastal Discovery Center offering interactive

exhibits exploring the connection between land and sea. Yearround seasonal activities include seal birthing and breeding in winter, windsurfing and sailing in spring, kayaking and bird watching in the cool, foggy summer, and diving and whale watching in fall. montereybay.noaa.gov

LUXURY, NATURALLY

A SAFARI WITH SINGITA

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When I began planning a safari, I was searching for something beyond spectacle. I wanted beauty, of course, but also intention. Singita revealed itself almost immediately as offering that rare alignment. Moving between Singita Lebombo Lodge and Singita Ebony Lodge, a realization crystallized: This is not luxury imposed upon the landscape but shaped by it. For Singita, conservation is not an adjunct to the experience. It is the reason for the experience. For more than three decades, the brand has worked to protect vast ecosystems, reinvesting in wildlife protection, land restoration, and community development in a way that feels both ambitious and deeply personal.

SINGITA LEBOMBO

Suspended above the N’wanetsi River, the Singita Lebombo’s cliffside lodge has glass-fronted suites that dissolve the boundary between interior and wilderness, opening directly onto the vastness of Kruger National Park. The striking architecture is designed to frame rather than compete with its surroundings. The service here comes across as instinctive, the pace unforced.

Game drives offer extraordinary sightings and a more nuanced understanding of the terrain, guided with a natural fluency. Beneath that ease lies an extraordinary level of protection. Across Singita’s reserves, dedicated anti-poaching teams operate continuously, supported by advanced technology and highly trained canine units, working to safeguard endangered species and preserve the integrity of the land. What feels untouched is, in reality, carefully and constantly protected.

Beyond the drives, the experience deepens. The lodge’s culinary program offers a meaningful connection to the surrounding community. Each meal is shaped around the moment, every detail considered.

The rhythm becomes its own ritual: Early morning drives, long lunches overlooking the river, unhurried afternoons, and drinks at sundown as the light begins to soften.

EBONY

At Ebony, set along the Sand River within Sabi Sand Game Reserve, the atmosphere shifts—softer and more intimate yet equally immersive. The transition from Lebombo feels seamless, a subtle recalibration of mood rather than pace.

One of the most compelling moments at Ebony is witnessing Singita’s canine anti-poaching unit, a rare glimpse into a side of

conservation that is typically unseen. These teams form part of a broader protection network that operates day and night, combining instinct, training, and intelligence to prevent threats before they reach the wildlife.

Elsewhere, the experience continues to unfold: Tracking predators at close range, exploring river ecosystems, and evenings that stretch from dusk drives to candlelit dinners beneath the open sky.

SAFARI CHIC

Packing for the singular experience at Singita called for a refined and versatile wardrobe that would be capable of mirroring the experience itself: neutral palettes, relaxed tailoring, and pieces designed to transition from early morning drives to evenings under the stars.

BEYOND THE JOURNEY

For those already looking ahead, Singita’s footprint extends far beyond South Africa. In Rwanda, Singita Kwitonda Lodge offers an intimate gateway to gorilla trekking, set on the edge of Volcanoes National Park. Elsewhere, its presence spans Serengeti National Park and the extraordinary Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve, where long-term conservation efforts have restored and sustained thriving ecosystems. A forthcoming lodge in Botswana will bring this same philosophy to the Okavango Delta.

Wherever you arrive, the experience remains unmistakably Singita: seamless, thoughtful, and deeply rooted in place. And what lingers, long after leaving, is not simply the beauty but the sense of purpose behind it. Every detail and experience is part of something larger. Here, luxury is not defined by excess but by care, connection, preservation, and profound respect for the land.

THE ESSENCE OF LE BARTHÉLEMY

SEA AND STILLNESS

There are Caribbean destinations, and then there is Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa—a sanctuary of rarefied elegance where sophistication is expressed in whispers, not excess. Tucked along the luminous shores of Grand Cul-de-Sac, it offers a serene counterpoint to the island’s celebrated glamour.

Despite its sense of seclusion, St. Barts is remarkably within reach. With seamless connections from New York, New Jersey, Georgia, Texas, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania, as well as Florida and California, travelers can arrive with ease via multiple daily flights on major airlines. A brief 15 minute shuttle flight, private charter, or ferry completes the effortless journey. The reward is a world entirely removed, a peaceful paradise, especially in the summer months when the island relaxes into a more intimate, unhurried rhythm.

At the heart of the hotel is its philosophy of refined, eco‑conscious luxury. Sustainability is woven discreetly into every detail, from thoughtful design to its culinary offerings. At Amis St. Barth and the Abyss, French savoir-faire meets vibrant Caribbean inspiration. Here, dining becomes an immersive experience—fresh, seasonal ingredients transformed into dishes that are expressive yet restrained.

Evenings unfold with a glass of perfectly chilled champagne in hand, as the horizon melts into twilight over the sea.

This July, the hotel elevates its gastronomic identity further with an exclusive guest chef series, celebrating the artistry of French gourmet cuisine. It is yet another expression of Le Barthélemy’s commitment to excellence—curated, intentional, and quietly extraordinary.

Days are spent in pleasurable ease, paddleboarding across crystalline waters, rejuvenating in the serene Le Mer Spa, or simply savoring the rare luxury of stillness. The spa itself is a sanctuary within a sanctuary, offering treatments that blend advanced wellness with island-inspired tranquility, while the calm, shallow waters of the bay invite quiet moments of drift beneath the Caribbean sun. Whether arranging a private beachfront dinner, a day aboard a yacht, or a quiet spa retreat, the team operates with seamless precision.

Le Barthélemy is not merely a destination; it is a state of grace. One arrives with ease and departs transformed.

Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa lebarthelemyhotel.com

Mill House Inn is a charming property, ideally located steps away from the village of East Hampton. Nestled back along the tree lined North Main Street. Our beautiful landscape and views of the windmill make for a perfect quiet escape. The Mill House Inn delivers optimum privacy. Smartly designed expansive rooms for business or pleasure.

INCREDIBLE BREAKFAST | PERSONAL CONCIERGE | DOGS & CHILDREN WELCOME SECLUDED GARDEN & DECKS | EAST HAMPTON VILLAGE & TOWN BEACH PASSES

OCEAN CASINO RESORT

ATLANTIC CITY’S MOST GLAMOROUS SECRET IS NO SECRET ANYMORE

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There was a time when Atlantic City was simply a nostalgic seaside escape. Today, however, something far more glamorous is unfolding along its shoreline. Rising above the Atlantic with striking modern architecture and uninterrupted ocean views, Ocean Casino Resort has become the East Coast’s most exciting social playground—a place where the worlds of the Hamptons, Palm Beach, and Manhattan effortlessly collide.

Just two hours from New York City—or a quick helicopter hop via Blade Air Mobility—the resort has quietly become the preferred getaway for those who understand that the best weekends aren’t always planned months ahead. Sometimes the most memorable nights begin with a spontaneous call: “Let’s go to Ocean.”

And once you arrive, it’s easy to see why. Perched directly on the beach and steps from the legendary Atlantic City boardwalk, the resort offers 1,860 newly designed rooms and suites, each with floor to ceiling views of the Atlantic. From elegant Honeymoon Studios to expansive High Roller Suites, every space feels like a private oceanfront retreat, where sunrise coffee turns into afternoon cocktails and sunset views that seem to stretch forever.

But Ocean is far more than a beautiful place to stay. It’s where the energy begins. Inside, the casino floor hums with excitement: More than 2,000 slot machines and over 130 table games create an atmosphere that is electric without ever losing its polish. Whether you’re a seasoned player or simply enjoying the thrill of the moment, the experience feels elevated, elegant, and unmistakably social.

And then, of course, there’s the dining, a true highlight that has become central to the Ocean experience. The resort’s restaurant collection reads like a curated culinary tour, with standout

Each venue offers its own distinct mood, from lively, high-energy dining rooms to intimate, oceanfront settings perfect for lingering over cocktails and conversation. With more than a dozen dining options in total, plus a vibrant food court designed to satisfy every craving, guests can move effortlessly from refined, chef driven cuisine to casual, late night indulgence. Whether it’s a celebratory dinner, a spontaneous bite between games, or a full evening built around exceptional food, the culinary scene delivers both variety and sophistication at every turn.

Days, meanwhile, unfold at an entirely different pace. At Exhale Spa and Bathhouse, guests recharge with restorative treatments before drifting between indoor and outdoor pools, private cabanas, and the ocean breeze. The resort’s expansive entertainment offerings, including the largest Topgolf Swing Suite in the U.S., ensure there is always something happening. It’s the ideal spot for a private event, wedding, or family reunion.

And perhaps that’s the real secret behind Ocean’s rising popularity with the Social Life crowd: It effortlessly blends relaxation with celebration. One weekend here becomes an escape defined by relaxation, fine dining, and a stunning oceanfront backdrop, where days are unhurried, nights are vibrant, and every moment feels elevated by the beauty of the Atlantic.

Atlantic City has been reimagined—and the invitation is open. Reserve your oceanfront escape at theoceanac.com and discover where the who’s who of the Hamptons go to play all year long.

To learn more about the accommodations, amenities, and exclusive offers, and to book your stay, please visit theoceanac.com

TURKS & CAICOS ISLANDS

AN ARCHIPELAGO OF REFINED INDULGENCE

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There are destinations that promise escape—and then there are those that redefine it entirely. The allure of Turks and Caicos, a scattering of more than 40 islands and cays in the Atlantic’s most luminous waters, is the latter: a place where elegance, adventure, and tranquility are in perfect balance.

Scattered across sapphire, turquoise crystal waters just a short, direct flight from New York City’s major gateways—JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark—this archipelago offers immediate passage into serenity. Nowhere is this more evident than in Providenciales and South Caicos, where an extraordinary collection of luxury villas and refined resorts redefine Caribbean living.

Turks and Caicos offers hotels, boutique inns, villas, resorts, guesthouses, and vacation properties, including luxury properties like The Shore Club, Wymara Resort, Beach Enclave, The Palms Turks & Caicos, Salterra, the Ritz Carlton, Sailrock, and Amanyara.

unforgettable expressions of identity. They reflect a people whose warmth, pride, and authenticity define the essence of Turks and Caicos living.

Providenciales, vibrant yet impeccably polished, is a haven for water-sports enthusiasts and connoisseurs of coastal beauty alike. Along the world-renowned Grace Bay, days unfold effortlessly: paddleboarding across crystalline shallows, sailing along calm turquoise waters, or diving into coral gardens teeming with marine life. Kiteboarding and deep sea fishing add an exhilarating dimension, each experience elevated by near-perfect conditions and understated sophistication.

South Caicos offers a more intimate expression of luxury—untouched, serene, and profoundly captivating. Life slows to a graceful cadence. Bone fishing across quiet flats, kayaking through unspoiled mangroves, and embarking on private yacht excursions offer not merely luxury but deeply personal encounters with nature.

Yet beyond the water, the cultural soul of the islands reveals itself in vibrant celebration. From lively regattas to the celebrated Turks and Caicos Conch Festival and the spirited Maskanoo Festival, these moments blend music, heritage, and culinary artistry into

Renting a private villa or indulging in one of the islands’ exceptional hotels is an immersion into a lifestyle shaped by beauty and intention. Architecture opens seamlessly to the sea, service is intuitive, and every detail is curated to elevate the everyday. The culinary landscape follows suit: Fresh conch, lobster, and reef fish are transformed into refined dishes that honor both tradition and innovation.

This summer, that spirit of refined island living travels stateside.

On July 18, Turks and Caicos will be at the distinguished Polo Hamptons, showcasing an exclusive collection of the islands’ most coveted luxury properties and villas. Set against the refined backdrop of the Hamptons’ premier polo grounds, the event offers a rare opportunity to engage directly with the architects of Caribbean luxury living.

For those who seek not just a destination but a world apart, Turks and Caicos remains effortlessly in a league of its own.

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To learn more please visit: visitturksandcaicos.com

ALCHEMY BY LOEWS

MULTI-SENSORY DRINKS, INSPIRED BY BOTANICAL APOTHECARIES, HAVE ARRIVED AT LOEWS REGENCY NEW YORK’S REGENCY BAR & GRILL

Loews Regency New York Hotel has launched Alchemy by Loews, a brand-wide beverage program designed to transform traditional cocktail and mocktail service into something transportive, shaped by creativity and attention to detail. Inspired by botanical apothecaries, Alchemy by Loews introduces thoughtfully composed drinks layered with subtle sensory elements that enhance flavor, mood, and connection while showcasing the mixology prowess of the Loews beverage team.

Catering to travelers’ increased interest in out-of-the-box food and beverage experiences, Alchemy by Loews embraces a refined approach to multidimensional hospitality. The program focuses on intuitive craftsmanship and the idea that how a drink feels is as important as how it tastes.

“Alchemy by Loews is about elevating the everyday ritual of enjoying a beverage into something quietly memorable,” said Grant Hewitt, vice president of beverage at Loews Hotels. “Every detail, from aroma and temperature to glassware and texture, is considered with intention. The result is an experience that feels personal, artisanal, and deeply rooted in hospitality.”

AN APOTHECARY-INSPIRED APPROACH TO MODERN MIXOLOGY

Alchemy by Loews features layered presentations, including house-made tinctures, herbal infusions, small-batch mixers, spritzers, and curated bottles that tell a story. Each element is designed to complement, not overpower, a drink’s core flavor

profile. At The Regency Bar & Grill, the program comes to life through select drinks featuring regional ingredients, seasonal botanicals, and destination-driven flavors that reflect the hotel’s surroundings. One of these is the Lavender Sparkle:

• 1 oz Seagram’s gin

• 1/2 oz lemon juice

• 1/2 oz simple syrup

• 3 oz Brut champagne

In addition, The Regency Bar & Grill is debuting new dishes to compliment the beverage program. Alchemy by Loews builds on the brand’s reputation for innovative, guest-centered food and beverage programming. As consumer preferences continue to shift toward personalization, craftsmanship, and spirit-free options, the program meets guests where they are, offering elevated experiences that feel deliberate, balanced, and distinctly Loews Regency New York Hotel.

By focusing on detail and sensory nuance, Alchemy by Loews reinforces the brand’s philosophy that true hospitality lies in the moments guests feel, before they even take a sip. For more information about Loews Regency New York Hotel or to book your upcoming travel, call 1.800.23.LOEWS or visit loewshotels.com

JET-SETTER STYLE

HÔTEL ROYAL

ÉVIAN

FRANCE

Perched above the glassy expanse of Lake Geneva, Hôtel Royal Évian reveals an entirely different personality in winter—quieter, more introspective, and infinitely more seductive. As snow dusts the Alps and the lake takes on a silvery calm, the property transforms into a cocoon of warmth and understated grandeur, the kind of place where time feels deliberately slowed.

Arrival is cinematic. The belle epoque facade, softened by frost, gives way to interiors that balance heritage with restraint. Inside, there’s a gentle glow—fireplaces lit, plush textiles layered, and tall windows framing a landscape that feels almost painted. Rooms and suites lean into this seasonal intimacy: warm woods, soft neutrals, and private balconies where the crisp air carries just enough bite to remind you it’s winter on the Riviera’s quieter side.

The true luxury, however, is the rhythm of a winter day here. Mornings begin slowly, perhaps with coffee overlooking the lake as low clouds drift between mountain peaks. From there, the Evian spa becomes less an amenity and more a destination. Thermal circuits, mineral-rich treatments, and steaming indoor-outdoor pools offer a kind of restoration that feels elemental—heat against cold, stillness against the vastness outside. It’s indulgent, yes, but also deeply grounding.

Dining follows suit, leaning into the season with a sense of quiet confidence. Michelin starred precision meets alpine comfort—rich broths, perfectly prepared fish, and dishes that feel both elevated and nourishing. Even the more relaxed settings carry a certain polish, where lingering over a late lunch or an unhurried dinner feels entirely expected.

And then there’s the silence. Not emptiness, but a refined hush that settles over the property in winter, punctuated only by the crackle of a fire or the distant movement of water. Service remains intuitive, almost invisible, allowing the experience to unfold without interruption.

For a Hamptons reader accustomed to polished escapes and curated indulgence, Hôtel Royal Évian offers something rarer: a sense of calm that lingers long after departure. It’s not about being seen; it’s about seeing differently.

u Head to hotel-royal.evianresort.com to book your stay.

JET-SETTER STYLE

VILLA VIESCA

ITALY

Winter brings a particular elegance to Villa Viesca. Set among the rolling hills of Reggello, the Renaissance villa settles into the season with ease, its gardens and olive groves framed by soft light and crisp air. The landscape feels composed rather than dormant, offering a quieter kind of beauty that invites attention rather than distraction.

Owned by the Ferragamo family, Villa Viesca reflects a legacy built on craftsmanship, proportion, and restraint. This sensibility is woven into every corner of the property. Interiors glow with warmth as fireplaces become gathering points and stone floors ground the rooms in history.

Antique furnishings, layered textiles, and carefully chosen artwork create spaces that feel intimate without ever losing their grandeur.

Winter days unfold gracefully. Mornings are spent lingering over breakfast, with the light filtering through tall windows. Afternoons invite long walks through the grounds with coats draped casually over arms, followed by moments indoors spent reading, writing, or simply enjoying the stillness. Evenings arrive softly, marked by candlelight and Tuscan cooking that feels especially suited to the season—rich, comforting, and meant to be slowly savored.

There is an unmistakable fashion-house sensibility here, but it never announces itself. Like a perfectly cut coat, Villa Viesca’s luxury lies in how it fits, how it moves, how it endures. In winter, the villa reveals its most refined rhythm: gracious, unhurried, and deeply rooted in the art of living well.

u Head to viescatoscana.com to book your stay.

THE COMPLETE BRIDGEHAMPTON RESORT-STYLE ESTATE

NEW

CONSTRUCTION BY

PARAMOUNT DEVELOPMENT GROUP AND PETER COOK BRINGS PRIVATE-RESORT LIVING TO TRELAWNY ROAD

In Bridgehampton, new construction at this scale must deliver more than square footage. Modern Hamptons luxury comes down to pedigree, execution, presentation—and the right combination comes together at 136 Trelawny Road, a new estate by Paramount Development Group and architect Peter Cook, just minutes from ocean beaches and Bridgehampton village.

“What separates 136 Trelawny is the scale: 2.4 acres at the end of a cul-de-sac, south of the highway in Bridgehampton,” says Vince Horcasitas of Saunders & Associates, the exclusive agent representing the property. “It has the feeling of an estate in the South of France, with the privacy, tennis, pool, rolling lawns, and indooroutdoor living spaces to function like a private country club with the soul of a modern luxury retreat.”

Expected to be completed in the summer of 2026, the home is the ultimate Hamptons lifestyle package, balancing grand-scale entertaining with quiet moments of restoration. Across three finished levels connected via elevator, the home offers more than 10,000 square feet of living space with seven bedrooms, eight full baths and three half baths, and a three car garage. Every detail reflects the quality and polish Paramount is known for, from generous proportions and refined

finishes to the thoughtful separation of shared and private spaces.

“Paramount has a well-earned reputation for delivering homes at an exceptional level, and this estate is a perfect example of why,” says Horcasitas. “Paired with Peter Cook’s architectural vision, it brings together scale, design, amenities, and livability in a way buyers rarely find in the Hamptons.”

Generous living and dining spaces connect to a chef’s kitchen suite and covered outdoor areas, creating an elegant rhythm for daily living and weekend entertaining. Upstairs, a private primary wing with a home office, balcony, and luxuriously scaled bath is complemented by three en suite guest bedrooms and a sitting room. The walkout lower level completes the lifestyle with a private wellness and leisure retreat designed for recharging, unwinding, and gathering at home.

Altogether, this one-of-a-kind Bridgehampton estate presents a fully realized Hamptons retreat where wellness, entertaining, and everyday luxury come together with every amenity already in place.

With more than 30 years of experience, Paramount Development Group is a benchmark for custom home construction in the Hamptons, known for refined craftsmanship, luxury finishes, and thoughtful attention to detail.

Vincent Horcasitas

Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker

VH@Saunders.com

516.768.7330

2287 Montauk Highway

Bridgehampton

BEFORE THEY WERE BROKERS

LORI LAMBERT’S INSTINCTS AS A MATCHMAKER

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Long before Lori Lambert was a top-producing real estate agent in the Hamptons, she was navigating New York City’s music business, an industry built on instinct, timing, and—like real estate—no small amount of backstage mystery.

And yes, there are stories. Probably very good ones. But after years spent in senior executive roles at Sony Music and Universal Music Group, Lambert has a professional history that comes with a healthy stack of NDAs. So, while she may not be spilling the tea, the larger picture is clear: Lambert built a career around creativity, strategy, tact, and getting the right people into the right room at the right time.

Instinct matters in the music industry. So does timing and the ability to understand what people want before they fully know how to articulate it. Lambert spent decades developing those skills while leading high-level marketing campaigns that connected major global brands with top-tier talent.

As a matchmaker for brands and talent, Lambert worked with Michael Jackson, Prince, Amy Winehouse, Keb’ Mo’, Shakira, and Macy Gray, among others.

That experience later carried into consulting work with PepsiCo, where Lambert helped shape music and sponsorship strategies in the consumer brand space. It was another world where culture, commerce, and timing had to align perfectly. The work sharpened her eye for branding, aesthetics, and audience—especially relevant skills for Hamptons real estate, where a home is never just square footage.

The transition into real estate was not as much a reinvention as a natural next chapter. The same qualities that made her effective in music and media—creative vision and strategic thinking— shape how she works with buyers and sellers. She understands how to position a property, read a client’s needs, and maintain momentum when a deal requires patience and problem-solving.

Her connection to the Hamptons runs deep. Drawn to the East End since she was a teenager, Lambert now lives fulltime in East Hampton with her husband, Steven, and their two Havanese dogs, Boogie and Lulu. She is also an engaged supporter of local causes, including ARF Hamptons, the Evelyn Alexander Wildlife Rescue Center, and the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Lambert may keep the music business stories locked away, but the experience shows. In real estate, as in entertainment, Lori Lambert knows how to read the room and make deals happen.

Lori Lambert

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson LLambert@Saunders.com

917.692.9564

26 Montauk Highway, East Hampton

MARGIT BRANDT PRESENTS

PALM BEACH HOME OF THE MONTH

991 N LAKE WAY, PALM BEACH, FLORIDA

Set on the corner of coveted Eden Road, this exceptional Palm Beach estate offers a rare blend of historic pedigree, modern sophistication, and serene coastal living. Originally designed by renowned architect John Volk and masterfully renovated by Sciame, the residence spans approximately 7,100 square feet on a third of an acre, delivering both grandeur and comfort across five beautifully appointed bedrooms.

A designated private office provides a refined workspace, while the primary suite serves as a luxurious retreat with dual baths and expansive his-and-her closets. The interiors

are further enhanced by bespoke Leeds cabinetry and a fully integrated Savant smart-home system, offering seamless livability, entertainment, and security.

The chef’s kitchen is outfitted with top of the line Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, blending performance with sleek style. A whole home water filtration system adds another layer of modern convenience. Every inch of the home reflects thoughtful craftsmanship and elevated design.

Outdoors, the lush, meticulous designer landscaping by Nievera Williams surrounds a stunning pool and elegant summer kitchen, perfect for North End relaxation.

Rare alley-access parking adds convenience for staff and guests, and privacy for residents. Nearby beach access and the scenic lakefront trail, both just steps away from the front door, complete the lifestyle offering—allowing residents to immerse themselves in island life.

Positioned in one of the island’s most desirable and tranquil enclaves, this residence is a rare legacy property, where stately Palm Beach architecture meets the finest in contemporary luxury.

u To learn more visit: margitbrandtpalmbeach.com

THE AGENCY HAMPTONS

A NEW FORCE ON THE EAST END

In the Hamptons, real estate is never just about property. It is about presence. Who you are, where you land, and how you live once you get there. And right now, The Agency is bringing a distinctly modern approach to one of the most competitive luxury markets in the world.

With its unmistakable brand identity and global reach, The Agency Hamptons has entered the Hamptons with a purpose: not to mirror legacy firms but to introduce a more curated, design-forward, and connected way of operating. It is less like a traditional brokerage and more like a global platform applied to the East End.

Leading the charge are Tyler Whitman and Dana Trotter. Whitman brings a contemporary, media-savvy presence that resonates with today’s buyer, while Trotter anchors the business with decades of Hamptons expertise and deeply rooted relationships. Together, they offer a balance of visibility and credibility that positions the firm to compete at the highest level.

Alongside them, Randi Ball and Rylan Jacka help drive the East Hampton presence with authority. With decades of deal experience and deep local fluency, they reinforce that this is not simply a brand expansion. It is a serious operating platform built for long-term relevance.

And the listings themselves reflect exactly that.

One of the most striking properties shaping The Agency’s Hamptons presence is 67 Hither Lane in East Hampton, a

newly completed estate that captures the polished elegance of modern Hamptons living. Offered at $17 million, the gated and fully fenced residence spans approximately 8,000 square feet with six bedrooms and eight baths, set on a full acre south of the highway in East Hampton village.

Designed with a refined contemporary aesthetic, the home balances scale with warmth and livability. Expansive entertaining spaces, dramatic natural light, and seamless indooroutdoor flow create an atmosphere that feels sophisticated without sacrificing comfort. A resort style pool and meticulously landscaped grounds complete the experience, delivering the kind of effortless luxury that continues to define the highest tier of the Hamptons market.

In contrast, 699 Butter Lane in Bridgehampton, offered at $8.995 million, presents a design-driven expression of luxury. Set behind lush hedging on nearly an acre, the home spans close to 6,000 square feet with a layout that feels both intentional and architectural.

Inside, soaring ceilings and a dramatic, light filled living space create an atmosphere that feels closer to a private gallery than a traditional Hamptons residence. Where Hither Lane is about polished grandeur and classic Hamptons prestige, Butter Lane is about precision—thoughtful design, curated interiors, and a quieter kind of confidence.

This duality is exactly where The Agency excels.

From headline making estates to refined, design forward homes, the portfolio reflects the full spectrum of Hamptons living. More important, it aligns with how today’s buyers think, not with one definition of luxury in mind, but more focused on finding a property that reflects a personal point of view.

What sets The Agency apart is not just what they represent but how they bring it to market.

Built on a collaborative model and backed by a global network, the firm brings a level of connectivity and brand sophistication that feels distinctly modern in a traditionally relationship-driven market. Listings are not simply presented. They are positioned, styled, and elevated with a level of polish that feels closer to a campaign than a conventional broker’s approach.

There is also a cultural fluency at play. From East Hampton openings to curated summer gatherings, The Agency has quickly embedded itself into the rhythm of the Hamptons social scene. It is where real estate intersects with design, influence, and lifestyle in a way that feels natural rather than constructed.

Because for all its glamour, the Hamptons remains a market defined by nuance. Success depends not only on access but on understanding the subtle differences between villages, the shifting expectations of buyers, and the importance of trust.

In a market long shaped by legacy players, The Agency is proving that a modern, globally connected approach can do more than compete.

It can redefine the experience entirely.

DAVID HORNUNG

THE D&J CONCEPTS CEO EXPLAINS THE NEW HAMPTONS AESTHETIC

There’s a certain confidence that comes with experience— and in the Hamptons, it shows up in the details.

After more than 25 years shaping homes in Southampton, with projects spanning Manhattan and Southern Florida, David Hornung has developed a point of view that doesn’t follow trends—it filters them. As the founder and CEO of D&J Concepts, his work reflects a deeper shift happening across high-end residential design: a move toward restraint, intention, and identity.

WHAT DEFINES HAMPTONS LUXURY NOW

“Luxury today is quieter,” Hornung explains. “It’s not about showing everything—it’s about knowing what to leave out.”

Gone are the days of overly styled coastal interiors. In their place: limewashed walls, natural stone, warm woods, and spaces that feel grounded rather than decorative. The emphasis has shifted from visual impact to lived experience.

At D&J Concepts, this translates into homes that unfold slowly—spaces that reveal their quality over time rather than announcing it immediately.

THE END OF NAUTICAL CLICHÉ

Traditional beach motifs—anchors, stripes, overt maritime references—are being replaced by a more global sensibility.

“We’re seeing a strong European influence,” says Hornung. “Belgian minimalism, Mediterranean textures, and craftsmanship that feels authentic—not manufactured.”

The result is a Hamptons aesthetic that feels more collected than designed. Less themed, more timeless.

WHERE ARCHITECTURE MEETS ATMOSPHERE

One of the most defining elements of this new direction is the seamless integration between indoors and outdoors. Expansive glass, continuous flooring, and outdoor spaces designed with the same intention as interiors have become essential. Patios are no longer afterthoughts—they are extensions of the home’s identity. “In the Hamptons, how you move through a space matters just as much as how it looks,” Hornung notes.

DESIGNING FOR PRESENCE, NOT EXCESS

There’s a growing discipline in restraint. Rooms are no longer filled—they’re edited. Sculptural furniture replaces volume. Art becomes a focal point rather than an accessory. Negative space is embraced, not avoided.

“It’s about presence,” Hornung says. “When everything has meaning, the space feels stronger.”

PERSONALIZATION OVER TREND

Perhaps the most significant evolution is the move toward deeply personal design. Clients are no longer asking what’s popular—they’re asking what reflects who they are. Homes are becoming more autobiographical, shaped by lifestyle, taste, and narrative rather than trend cycles.

At D&J Concepts, that philosophy drives every project. Each home is treated as a collaboration, not a template.

THE D&J POINT OF VIEW

Hornung’s approach is as practical as it is refined. While his design direction leans toward elevated simplicity, his execution b

is grounded in efficiency, something he considers essential in the Hamptons market.

“Speed matters,” he says. “You can have the best vision in the world, but if it can’t be delivered, it doesn’t work.”

That mindset informs everything from vendor relationships to product sourcing. He favors brands that balance quality with reliability—like his current go-to bedding source, Boll & Branch, known for comfort, durability, and efficient delivery.

Locally, Rumrunner Home remains a staple. “They understand this market,” Hornung says. “Good pricing, strong inventory, and quick turnaround—it makes a difference.”

LOOKING AHEAD

As the Hamptons continue to evolve, so does the definition of luxury. The future isn’t louder; it’s more considered. More refined. More personal. Through it all, D&J Concepts remains at the forefront—not just designing homes, but shaping how they’re lived in.

D&J Concepts

425 County Road 39A, Southampton david@dandjconcepts.com dandjconcepts.com

INSIDE THE HAMPTONS MARKET WITH

TARA CAPRI

In the Hamptons, luxury real estate is often about more than square footage or proximity to the ocean. It is about instinct. Knowing how people want to live before they fully articulate it themselves. That intuitive understanding is part of what has made Tara Capri one of the standout brokers at Nest Seekers International. Capri brings a distinctly modern energy to the East End market. Equal parts savvy adviser, connector, and curator of lifestyle, she understands that today’s Hamptons buyer is looking for something highly personal. Some want privacy and understated sophistication. Others want architectural drama and effortless entertaining. Many want both.

Known for her sharp eye, calm confidence, and deep understanding of the luxury market, Capri has built a reputation for guiding clients through the Hamptons with precision and discretion. Her approach feels less transactional and more editorial. She is not simply selling homes. She is helping clients step into a version of life they have imagined for years.

That sensibility is reflected in two of her current listings, each representing a very different side of Hamptons living.

In Bridgehampton, Capri is representing 17 Barn Lane, a precompletion new construction estate asking $6,595,000. Set on 0.96 acres, the home is planned at approximately 6,000 square feet, with six bedrooms, seven full bathrooms, and one half bath across three levels. Completion is anticipated in 2027.

Designed for modern Hamptons living, the residence opens with a dramatic double-height foyer and an expansive open-concept layout. The home is built for both scale and ease, with a full finished basement, hardwood floors, two fireplaces, central air, security system, and a thoughtful mix of spaces including a great room, family room/den, office, media room, exercise room, laundry room, bonus room, and breakfast area.

Outside, the property is designed as a private resort setting, with a heated gunite pool, hot tub, sauna, sprinkler system, and attached two-car garage. Its Bridgehampton location adds to the appeal, with the Long Island Railroad about one mile away, the Hampton Jitney and Hamptons Luxury Liner stops about two miles away, and nearby beaches including Foster Memorial Town Beach and Haven’s Beach approximately three miles from the property.

Meanwhile, Capri’s listing at 485 Seven Ponds Towd Road in Water Mill offers a completely different kind of appeal. Priced at $2.195 million, the property features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and approximately 2,250 square feet.

Set on nearly half an acre, the home has a more understated charm, appealing to buyers who prioritize serenity, nature, and understated elegance over excess. Surrounded by the natural beauty that makes Water Mill so coveted, the property offers a peaceful retreat while remaining close to Southampton, Bridgehampton, and the ocean.

The residence includes open living spaces filled with natural light, a heated pool, and beautifully maintained grounds that create an atmosphere of relaxed sophistication. It is the kind of home that feels effortless. Comfortable enough for quiet weekends yet refined enough for stylish summer entertaining.

Together, the two listings reflect Capri’s range as an agent and the breadth of today’s Hamptons market itself. From grand-scale modern architecture in Bridgehampton to intimate luxury in Water Mill, she understands how to position properties not just as homes, but as emotional experiences.

And in a market where perception, lifestyle, and trust matter as much as price per square foot, that instinct has become one of Tara Capri’s greatest assets.

Tara Capri Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

631.741.1756

TaraC@nestseekers.com

INSIDE THE HAMPTONS MARKET WITH

JAMES GIUGLIANO

James Giugliano, a Southampton native, has catapulted his way to the top of Hamptons luxury real estate agents in only a few short years. Getting his start in real estate in 2014, Giugliano’s existing knowledge of his hometown and the surrounding communities, coupled with his ambition and drive, has accelerated his success, earning him the accolade of Nest Seekers No. 1 agent four years in a row.

With his second-nature understanding of the nuances of the Hamptons’ many neighborhoods, architectural styles, and home values, Giugliano’s expertise solidified him as an invaluable asset to his clients. Leading with honesty and integrity, he advises his clients— whether buyers, sellers or investors—based on his historical knowledge of comps and trending market data. In addition to working with buyers and sellers, Giugliano has found a niche working with developers and investors to build more than 10 luxury spec homes a year and bring them to market.

In addition to growing his personal business, Giugliano has built a team of young real estate professionals he is committed to mentoring, helping them find their own success in real estate.

You’ll find Giugliano starring on Netflix’s Million Dollar Beach House, which follows young and rising Hamptons agents as they navigate the area’s highly competitive real estate market.

Much of Giugliano’s motivation for success comes from his growing family. He is a devoted husband and father of one son with another on the way.

120 HALSEY LANE

Introducing a one-of-a-kind opportunity to own a legacy estate south of the highway in Bridgehampton’s farm country: 120 Halsey Lane. This newly constructed, fully custom 14,267-square-foot residence is set on 2.5 lush acres and promises the pinnacle of Hamptons living. Newly completed and move-in ready, this architectural masterpiece offers nine bedrooms, 11 full bathrooms, and three half baths, designed to seamlessly blend modern luxury with timeless shingle-style elegance.

Step inside to soaring spaces and grand proportions: An awe-inspiring 26-foot-tall great room sets the tone for the rest of the home. Every inch of the layout has been thoughtfully curated, with two

true primary suites, one conveniently located on the main level and the other as a second floor sanctuary complete with a private deck. From the oversize three-car garage to the two elegant staircases and private elevator, no detail is overlooked. The lower level is an entertainer’s dream featuring an 11-foot ceiling height, a golf simulator, a full gym, a sauna, a steam room, and multiple bar and lounge areas. The main level continues the experience with massive covered patios perfect for indoor-outdoor living and seamless entertaining.

Every room on the second floor is graced with 9 foot ceilings and stunning 12 foot cathedral vaulted designs, flooding each space with natural light and volume. The home’s exterior matches the magnificence within, with beautifully manicured grounds, a 600-square-foot pool house, a resort-style swimming pool with spa, and a private tennis court—your own secluded Hamptons compound.

This is more than just a home; it’s a lifestyle—an extraordinary retreat built for generational enjoyment in one of the East End’s most coveted locations. 120 Halsey Lane offers the rare combination of scale, style, and substance, with completion perfectly timed for summer 2026.

50 TUCKAHOE LANE

Tucked behind a curtain of privacy hedges and located south of the highway in Southampton village, 50 Tuckahoe Lane is a stunning brand-new construction set on 1.2 lush acres, thoughtfully designed to offer luxury, comfort, and refined Hamptons living. Recently completed and move-in ready, this 7,307-square-foot residence has been meticulously curated for both functionality and style. The approach down the long gravel driveway welcomes you to an elegant two-story cedar-clad home with clean architectural lines and expansive glass windows that fill the interiors with natural light. Step inside and be greeted by a soaring double-height foyer, setting the tone for the grand yet warm interior that flows effortlessly into the heart of the

home: an open-concept living space anchored by a gourmet chef’s kitchen. Outfitted with state of the art stainless steel appliances, an oversize island, and a walk-in pantry, this kitchen is ideal for both casual breakfasts and large-scale entertaining. A sleek double-sided fireplace connects the great room and den, while a formal dining room, home office, mudroom with built ins, and a junior primary suite with a private deck complete the first floor. Upstairs, the primary suite is a true retreat, offering two custom walk-in closets, a spa-like bathroom with a soaking tub and glass-enclosed shower, a separate sitting room, and a large private terrace overlooking the serene backyard. Three additional en suite bedrooms and a laundry room complete the second floor. The finished lower level offers even more versatility with two en suite bedrooms, a media lounge, recreation space, a full bath, laundry, and potential for a gym, home theater, or playroom. Outside, this estate is a true entertainer’s dream. A 20-foot-by-50-foot heated gunite pool with integrated spa sits just off the rear patio, accompanied by a pool house, outdoor shower, and sunken patio lounge. A private sunken tennis court rounds out the outdoor amenities, creating a resort-like atmosphere that invites both relaxation and recreation. With six total bedrooms, eight full baths, one half bath, and every modern amenity including central air conditioning, attached two-car garage, private well water, and septic, 50 Tuckahoe Lane is not just a home; it’s a lifestyle—a rare offering in one of the Hamptons’ most coveted locations.

James

Giugliano

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

631.456.3567

JamesG@nestseekers.com

MAGO’S JOURNAL

b y M ago

MAGO is an internationally acclaimed artist, focusing on installations. He also curates for private collectors and consults for galleries and museums. MAGO is experienced in media and production, and he uses this wealth of cultural knowledge to inform this column.

A DEFINING YEAR IN ART AND COLLABORATION

This year marks an especially dynamic and rewarding chapter for the artists and projects I’ve had the privilege to be involved with. Across exhibitions, fairs, and international platforms, the momentum continues to build in meaningful and inspiring ways. This season reflects not only artistic excellence but also the strength of collaboration and community across the global art world.

Visitors are invited to experience the latest exhibitions at the Stella Flame Gallery, where Stella Flame’s newest bespoke jewelry designs and her captivating Seaing Stars collection are currently on view. The gallery also presents a compelling roster of artists, including the evocative works of Cecilia Paredes, Emanuel De Sousa, and Lucy Cookson.

On the international stage, El Salvador has announced Southamptonbased artist J. Oscar Molina as its representative for the 61st International Art Exhibition—La Biennale di Venezia. His exhibition, “Cartographies of the Displaced,” will be presented at Palazzo Mora, offering a powerful exploration of migration, memory, and identity.

Meanwhile, Lucy Cookson continues to gain recognition among collectors, with her work featured prominently at the Hamptons Fine Art Fair and The Palm Beach Show. Her growing acclaim includes recognition from the New York Observer for best booth at the Atlanta Art Fair.

It is always a pleasure collaborating with Julie Keys and celebrating her continued success at Art Miami and Art Basel.

Special recognition goes to Sharon Coplan Hurowitz for her work at Sotheby’s, bringing together artist Adam Pendleton and designer Gabriela Hearst in a project inspired by the legendary Nina Simone.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to collaborate with Brenda Simmons on installations at the Southampton African American Museum, as well as to participate in 5th Pride alongside Antony Madonna and Guild Hall Teen Council.

THE CHAOS LUXURY AESTHETIC

CREATED BY SANDY COHEN

“I SHAKE MY SUGAR DADDY, FILL MY GOODIE BAGGY “

SUNDAY, MAY 24, 2026

STELLA FLAME GALLERY

2385 MONTAUK HIGHWAY, BRIDGEHAMPTON

At Stella Flame Gallery, Sandy Cohen unveils her newest solo exhibition, “I Shake My Sugar Daddy, Fill My Goodie Baggy,” a high-gloss collision of glamour, irony, and excess.

Cohen has rapidly emerged as one of the most closely watched figures in contemporary art, with work quietly entering elite private collections across the Hamptons. Her visual language—bold, seductive, and deliberately unstable—sits at the intersection of fine art, celebrity culture, and modern luxury mythology.

Beyond the gallery, Cohen creates bespoke residential collections for private clients, including numerous celebrity homes in the Hamptons, where her work is integrated as part of fully realized interior environments.

FAME by Sandy Cohen Art—her fashion imprint and the extension of her artistic world—pushes this vision further. Operating under what she defines as “chaos luxury,” the label is now expanding across an international selection of distinguished retailers including Wild Side Sag Harbor, Human Steps and Sunbarth (St. Barts), La Scène des Artistes (Cannes France), and Chelsea Exclusive in New York City.

For private commissions and bespoke residential collections, Sandy Cohen Art accepts inquiries by request, offering collectors access to site specific works tailored specifically to their homes.

u To learn more please visit: sandycohenart.com

RACHEL’S RADAR

ANDRES VALENCIA

Was Andres born an artist, or do you think it’s something he learned from school or art classes?

Andres was definitely born an artist. He started painting on his own at age 5 with no formal art training. He gravitated to cubism at this early age and has never stopped.

Is Andres good at the business aspect of art?

Andres is not involved and has no interest at this point in the business aspect of his art. He just likes to create and is very interested in using his art to help philanthropic causes. He has donated his artworks to various charities, including The Global Gift Foundation, AmfAR, UNICEF and others, thus far raising more than $1.4 million.

What inspires Andres?

“I am inspired by images that just come to me and I paint them onto canvases,” Andres says. “Sometimes I paint without knowing what I will create, and as I work these images

just come out. Creating artwork is who I am, and it makes me happy to create art that people can enjoy.”

Is anyone else in Andres’s family also artistically inclined?

Elsa Valencia, Andres’s mother, is a clothing and jewelry designer. She has been doing that since she was a child too.

It looks like Picasso inspired Andres. Is that so?

“Picasso is one of my favorite artists and a big inspiration,” Andres says. “I also am inspired by Amedeo Modigliani, Georges Braque, George Condo, and others. I hope that people enjoy my exhibition and are inspired to create without rules. Art has no rules, and people should create and enjoy their creations. Art is freedom.”

u To learn more please visit: andresvalenciaart.com Follow Andres on Instagram: @andresvalenciaart

MARK SEIDENFELD

THE RENOVATED TRACTOR BARN OPENS WITH “UNCHARTED WATERS”

Mark Seidenfeld is pleased to present “Uncharted Waters,” a solo exhibition of paintings, on view June 4 through June 21 at The Bridgehampton Museum’s Corwith Homestead Tractor Barn, at 2368 Montauk Highway, a newly renovated, contemporary exhibition space blended into the historic William A. Corwith Homestead campus.

The Bridgehampton Museum is a cultural institution dedicated to presenting ambitious exhibitions, fostering cultural dialogue, and preserving the local history of Bridgehampton and the East End of Long Island. The opening of the Corwith Homestead Tractor Barn expands its capacity to present large-scale, site-responsive work.

“Uncharted Waters” both inaugurates the Corwith Homestead Tractor Barn and presents a concentrated statement of Seidenfeld’s ongoing investigation into abstraction.

Seidenfeld was born in 1954 in New York City and now lives and works in the Hamptons. He is an abstract painter whose work investigates structure, gesture, and spatial depth. His practice is defined by a sustained engagement with painting as an evolving process shaped by perception and revision. When asked to describe his approach to painting, he says, “I set my sails for the deep and uncharted waters.”

Each canvas is a journey into experimentation, he says. “You see, for me, painting is not a relaxing pastime or an exercise in decoration. It is only by navigating, and sometimes fighting my way to a place beyond influences and past experiences, that I have the chance to make something true, and unique to me.”

Seidenfeld uses painting to hone his singular creative voice. “I risk everything to move into deeper places of perception and wonder, parts of the mind that remain hidden unless I force my way in,” he says. “This is how my paintings develop. With no map and no clear direction, I travel internally, to unknown lands, in the hope I will return, having created something which reflects my experience.“

In Seidenfeld’s view, art is a powerful weapon—a weapon of awareness. “I believe that work created by breaking one’s boundaries shimmers, because it reflects the struggle to be truthful,” he says. “My painting is an alchemical process that transforms my emotions, vision, awareness, and instinct into something illuminated and empowered. For me, art is a transformation accelerator.”

u For more information, please visit: markseidenfeld.com,

THE READING ROOM

b y Z ibby o W ens

Sarah Damoff

The Burning Side

I’m absolutely obsessed with this family drama about marriage, siblings, family, motherhood, regret, memory, and more. I actually bawled when it ended. The very night one couple discusses divorce, a house fire destroys their home, displacing them to one of their parents’ homes, where the parents are keeping secret an early Alzheimer’s diagnosis. The narrator’s perspective shifts between husband and wife, the parents-in-law, and more to show us what’s really going on, as one home fills up and another is destroyed. It’s absolutely beautiful.

Getting ready for some summer reading? Finally have time to relax? These are some of my favorite books of the year, all linked by their emotional take on the world. These aren’t fluffy beach reads. They are authentically honest, funny, sad, powerful, perceptive, and utterly page-turning. Take a moment to get lost in someone else’s story to make more meaning out of your own.

Laurie Frankel

Enormous Wings

When a grandmother reluctantly decides to move into a retirement community, she doesn’t expect to start a hot-and-heavy relationship with her next door neighbor. And she definitely doesn’t expect to get pregnant. This plot twist sends her adult children, friends, and soon, even the media into a tailspin. Is it possible? Is it advisable to have a baby that late in life? Who’s to say? This witty family comedy is thoughtprovoking, entertaining, and, somehow, deeply relatable.

The End of My Life Is Killing Me Stage 4 cancer hasn’t stopped actress and humor writer Annabelle Gurwitch from strutting her stuff. A selfprofessed cancer “slacker,” she doesn’t want to take over the world with a long bucket list. But she does take up with a younger man and soon finds herself selling concert merch out of the back of a van on tour with him. It’s about facing illness, finding ways to keep cancer at bay, and finding herself. An instant USA Today best seller.

The Land and Its People

Legendary author David Sedaris pens essays about aging, love, marriage (quite unexpectedly), family, community, and more in his latest whip-smart collection. Although he might not be the best natural caretaker for his husband, Hugh, he has a gift when it comes to observing the ridiculousness of life and even himself. I laughed out loud repeatedly. Smart, engaging, reflective, and truly brilliant.

Libby Page

I See You’ve Called in Dead

Now in paperback, John Kenney’s best-selling novel is the perfect thoughtful, hilarious read for summer. When obituary writer Bud decides, drunk, to write his own obituary and publish it, he promptly gets fired. But due to an administrative hiccup, he can’t actually be fired because the system can’t fire a dead person. While waiting in office limbo with a colorful cast of characters, Bud starts attending wakes and funerals of strangers, and only then, starts to get the plot.

This Book Made Me Think of You

When Tilly’s young husband dies, he leaves behind a set of 12 books that Alfie, the local bookstore owner, is instructed to give Tilly each month after the loss for a year. Not only do Tilly and Alfie connect through books and loss, but Tilly’s life changes as she learns, escapes, and delights in the lessons her late husband left her.

Rachel Goldberg-Polin When We See You Again

Just stop what you’re doing and read this book. Rachel Goldberg-Polin’s late son Hersh was taken hostage by Hamas on October 7, held for more than 300 days, and then executed. His mother never stopped fighting for him. In this deeply personal, raw explosion of love and pain, she traces her life with Hersh, her family, her own background, the events of October 7, and where she is now. Rachel is a true hero, a warrior, and by writing this book will help anyone going through grief.

When Liv moves back to New York to lick her wounds after a public loss, she takes up with her former neighbor, bad boy Damon, who may or may not be married. Meanwhile, Isabel, a society matron, also has eyes on Damon and befriends Liv. We only later find out that Isabel is rumored to be a “fixer.” From the North Fork to Lake Como, these flawed, injured characters glom onto one another in a passionate stew of intimacy, luxury, pain, and pleasure.

Zibby Owens is the founder of Zibby Media, which includes the award-winning daily podcast Totally Booked With Zibby, Zibby Publishing in New York, and Zibby’s Bookshop in Santa Monica, California. She is the author of six books, including the USA Today best sellers Blank: A Novel and On Being Jewish Now: Reflections From Authors and Advocates. Follow her on Substack and Instagram @zibbyowens

LESSING’S WEDDINGS

THE TRENDS DEFINING LARGE CELEBRATIONS IN 2026

Today’s weddings are no longer just events; they’re fully immersive experiences designed to keep guests engaged, entertained, and celebrating from the moment they arrive until the last dance. Couples planning large-scale celebrations are prioritizing personalization, atmosphere, and seamless hospitality, with every detail chosen to create a memorable guest experience.

At Lessing’s Weddings, recently voted best on Long Island 2026 for large weddings, their experts are seeing a clear shift toward experiences that blend luxury with comfort, timeless elegance with modern trends, and traditional wedding elements with interactive, experiential moments. From roaming cocktail stations and dramatic floral installations to romantic lighting and bridal salon suites, couples are redefining what a large wedding celebration looks and feels like in 2026. Here are some of the top wedding trends shaping the upcoming season.

ELEVATED COCKTAIL HOUR EXPERIENCES

One of the biggest trends influencing both weddings and upscale social events is the evolution of the cocktail hour into a fully interactive dining experience. Hosts are moving away from traditional stationary setups in favor of strolling cocktail stations and elevated “mini meals” that encourage guests to mingle naturally throughout the celebration.

There’s also increasing demand for mobile culinary experiences, including passed desserts, cannoli and gelato served directly on the dance floor, and roaming signature cocktail service.

Whether for weddings, milestone birthdays, galas, or corporate celebrations, the focus is on creating a lively, continuous flow where guests remain immersed in the atmosphere without needing to sit down or wait in lines.

STATEMENT FLORALS AND CENTERPIECES

Across weddings and luxury social events alike, floral design is becoming more artistic and expressive. Hosts are embracing larger, statement-making centerpieces while moving beyond traditional floral palettes and arrangements.

Today’s trend leans toward orchids and unexpected blooms, flowing greenery and organic textures, and layered, natural arrangements with a modern edge.

These dramatic floral installations create a sophisticated atmosphere that elevates ballrooms and event spaces while adding personality and visual impact to large-scale celebrations.

ENTERTAINMENT: THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

Entertainment is becoming more immersive and experiential, especially for large weddings and events where keeping energy high throughout the evening is a priority. One of the fastest-growing trends is the DJ plus live musician fusion,

pairing DJs with saxophonists, percussionists, violinists, and other live performers. This blend of live entertainment and curated music creates a dynamic atmosphere that keeps guests engaged and the dance floor packed all night long. Hosts are also incorporating statement design elements like black-and-white checkered dance floors, transforming the dance floor itself into a stylish focal point and social centerpiece.

ROMANTIC LIGHTING AND CEILING INSTALLATIONS

Lighting continues to play a major role in setting the tone for modern celebrations. Instead of vibrant uplighting and bold color washes, couples and event hosts are gravitating toward soft, moody, romantic lighting that creates a warm and elevated ambiance.

Popular design elements include candlelit tablescapes, dimmed room lighting, and spotlighting focused on the dance floor and entertainment.

Large-scale ceiling installations are also becoming increasingly popular for weddings and social events, with flowing white chiffon fabric, hanging greenery, and fresh Italian ruscus transforming ballrooms into immersive, elegant environments.

MODERN SIGNATURE DRINKS

Customized beverage experiences remain a standout feature at weddings and social events, with signature cocktails continuing to evolve in more inclusive and elevated ways.

One growing trend is the addition of sophisticated signature mocktails that feel just as curated and celebratory as traditional cocktails. Many hosts are opting for alcohol-free options that can also be customized or spiked upon request, ensuring every guest feels like part of the experience.

THE BRIDAL SALON EXPERIENCE

Luxury hospitality is extending far beyond the reception itself, with many couples now prioritizing the full-day experience for their bridal party and closest guests.

A growing trend is the use of bridal salon-style suites that allow brides and their bridal parties to arrive earlier in the day and fully enjoy the getting-ready process on site. These spaces create a relaxed, social atmosphere where the celebration begins long before the ceremony.

Bridal parties are looking for experiences that include champagne, cocktails, and curated food offerings; hair and makeup services on-site; and comfortable lounge-style environments for photos, preparation, and socializing.

This trend reflects the larger movement toward elevated, experiential celebrations where every part of the event day feels deliberately selected to make it memorable for both the couple and their guests.

Lessing’s Hospitality Group

631.567.8200 lessings.com

DJ CHEF

THE HOTTEST NAME IN HAMPTONS ENTERTAINING

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In the Hamptons, where expectations are high and experiences matter more than ever, one name continues to dominate the social scene—DJ CHEF

Known as “the Chef That Rocks,” DJ CHEF has redefined what it means to host a private event. Blending high-level culinary talent with live DJ performance, he delivers something far beyond a traditional dinner party or a DJ set—it’s an immersive, high-energy experience that turns any gathering into the highlight of the season.

Today’s Hamptons clientele isn’t looking for basic. They’re not interested in trays being passed or a playlist playing in the background. They want engagement. They want interaction. They want a moment their guests will talk about long after the weekend ends.

That’s exactly where DJ CHEF comes in.

At the core of the DJ CHEF experience is a seamless fusion of elevated comfort food, music, and live entertainment. As he cooks, he performs. As he DJs, he hosts. Guests aren’t just attending— they’re part of the show. From interactive cooking moments with the guest of honor to crowd-hyping signature routines and highenergy dance breaks, the experience builds like a live performance.

It’s this unique format that has made DJ CHEF a staple at Hamptons bachelorette weekends, milestone birthdays, private estate parties, and high-end social gatherings across the East End.

“In a market where everyone is trying to outdo each other, DJ CHEF stands in a category of his own,” says Chloe, a Hamptons event coordinator. “It’s not catering and it’s not just

entertainment—it’s a full experience. Our clients consistently say it’s the highlight of their entire weekend.”

With accolades including Food Network Champion, Top Chef Hamptons winner, and multiple Best of Long Island awards, DJ CHEF brings serious culinary credibility to the table while delivering the kind of energy typically reserved for a headlining DJ.

His signature moments—like the interactive dessert finale, complete with sparkler candles, music, and a full crowd sing-along— have become must-have experiences for clients looking to create unforgettable celebrations.

And while the food is undeniably a draw—featuring fresh, locally inspired ingredients and crowd-favorite dishes—it’s only part of the story. The real magic lies in how everything comes together: the pacing, the music, the crowd interaction, and the feeling that something special is happening in real time.

In a place like the Hamptons, where luxury is the standard, experience is the differentiator.

And DJ CHEF has mastered it.

With a calendar that fills quickly each season and a growing reputation as one of the most sought-after entertainers in the region, DJ CHEF isn’t just part of the party—he is the party.

DJ CHEF djchef.com @djchefrocks

RULA LUTFI

REDEFINING THE BIRTHDAY CAKE

In the Hamptons, where summer entertaining has become something of an art form, the dessert table is no longer an afterthought. It is a moment. And more often than not, that moment belongs to Rula Lutfi.

The founder of Lala Bon Bon Pâtisserie has built a following for couture cakes that feel as intentional as the gatherings they are created for. These are not the oversize, sugar-heavy cakes people expect. They are refined, feminine, and quietly striking. They are designed

“I blend classical French pâtisserie with American comfort desserts, and I especially love creating bespoke birthday cakes that are as beautiful as they are delicious.“

Rula Lutfi

to be seen, shared, and remembered.

Trained in France and New York City, Rula brings classical French discipline to everything she creates. But she is not interested in tradition for its own sake. What makes her work stand out is how she tempers that precision with something more personal. There is warmth in what she creates. A sense that these pieces are made for people, not just presentation.

“I craft couture cakes and handcrafted pastries using organic, all-natural ingredients and nontoxic dyes,” she says. “I blend classical French pâtisserie with American comfort desserts, and I especially love creating bespoke birthday cakes that are as beautiful as they are delicious.”

That focus on birthdays is not incidental. Rula has built her brand around personal celebrations. Not large-scale production, not generic events, but the kinds of gatherings where the details reflect the host, and the cake becomes part of the memory.

Her aesthetic is instantly recognizable. Soft blush tones. Sculptural finishes. Clean lines that feel deliberate rather than minimal. Nothing feels overdone. Even at their most indulgent, her cakes carry a lightness that sets them apart.

But what is inside matters just as much. At a time when “clean” ingredients can feel like a tradeoff, Rula has made them central to her work without compromising the result. Organic, allnatural components. Nontoxic dyes. Thoughtful sourcing. The outcome is

something that feels both elevated and considered.

That clarity of vision has drawn a very specific kind of client: Hosts who care about how things look but also how they are made. People who notice the difference.

There is also a deeper layer to what she does. Rula believes that food carries energy. It is an idea shaped by her upbringing, where cooking was tied to connection as much as nourishment. That belief shows up in her process. There is focus in the way each piece is

Organic, all-natural components. Nontoxic dyes. Thoughtful sourcing. The outcome is something that feels both elevated and considered.

made, a sense that it is created for a particular moment, not just produced. You can feel it. Guests do not just admire her cakes. They gather around them. They talk about them. They remember them. In settings where everything is considered, that kind of response stands out.

Her approach to business follows the same logic. She has grown carefully, choosing consistency over speed. Quality is protected at every step. Her kitchen is structured, but there is room for creativity. There is discipline, but it does not feel rigid. That mindset aligns naturally with how people are entertaining right now. Gatherings feel more personal. Details matter in a quieter way. Rula’s work fits into that shift without trying to define it. Her cakes do not compete with the setting. They complete it.

And that is what brings people back. Not just how they look, but how they land. The way they draw people in. The way they close out an evening. Because the most memorable luxury is not always the most obvious. It is the one that feels considered. And that is exactly what Rula Lutfi delivers.

Lala Bon Bon Pâtisserie Instagram: @lalabonbon__patisserie

ANDREA STARK

GIVING A VOICE TO THE VOICELESS

Philanthropist Andrea Stark’s calendar reads like a crosssection of America’s defining causes: women’s cancer research and awareness, social services, and animal rescue. But for Stark, the work is neither social nor strategic. It’s inherited.

“My parents were not wealthy,” she says. “I was the first one to go to college. But my mom did what she could.” Stark’s mother led the local Brownie and Girl Scout troops, organized community efforts, and taught Stark that generosity is not tied to income.

HONORING THOSE WHO CAME BEFORE

Stark has been involved for more than two decades with the Albert Einstein College of Medicine’s annual Spirit of Achievement luncheon. The event honors female leaders across industries, such as Senator Hillary Clinton and designer Bobby Brown, while raising critical funds for biomedical research. einsteinmed.edu

PROTECTING THOSE WHO COME AFTER

Women’s health advocacy runs through Stark’s work. She has long supported breast cancer awareness initiatives, including serving as a chairwoman and table designer for Holiday House, which benefits the Breast Cancer Awareness Foundation. “One in eight women will be diagnosed. Take charge of your health and get a mammogram,” she says. holidayhousenyc.com

Stark’s mission extends to chairing Palm Beach’s Hearing the Ovarian Cancer Whisper women’s luncheon, which funds ovarian cancer research, supports patients’ financial needs, and promotes early detection and education. ovariancancerpbc.org

Stark doesn’t just use her aesthetic eye for Holiday House; she has also designed tables for the Lenox Hill Neighborhood House gala for more than 20 years. She is deeply committed to the historic 1894 organization that provides education, housing support, food programs, and health-care access to vulnerable New Yorkers. lenoxhill.org

SAVING ALL SOULS, BIG OR SMALL

But if there is one cause that ignites her most, it’s animal rescue. Stark passionately works with Tri-County Animal Rescue, a 100 percent no-kill shelter serving Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach in Florida. tricountyanimalrescue.org

Stark strives to transform the shelter system. Her upcoming New York event, Save a Soul, aims to help dogs sentenced to euthanasia be adopted, inspired by youth activist Sir Darius Brown, who dresses shelter dogs in bow ties to make them more adoptable and has raised over $500,000 toward finding loving homes for these pets. The event will center around community, culture, and giving.

In a divided world losing its compassion, Stark returns to her mother’s mantra: “Give a voice to the voiceless.”

THE FIXER

INSIDE THE BURKE FAMILY LEGACY BEHIND ONE OF THE HAMPTONS’ MOST TRUSTED LEGAL NAMES

On the East End, where reputations are built slowly and protected fiercely, certain names carry weight the moment they’re spoken. Burke is one of them. And at the center of that legacy today is Edward Burke Jr., a man who has steadily become known as something more than a defense attorney. Around Southampton and beyond, he is known as the fixer.

That reputation was not manufactured. It was built over time, shaped by experience, and sharpened in the courtroom. Burke spent seven years as a prosecutor in the Suffolk County district attorney’s office, developing the instincts that now define his approach. He understands how cases are built, where they break, and how to move them. It is a foundation that clients recognize, especially in moments when the stakes are high and the margin for error is thin.

In the Hamptons, those moments carry a different kind of weight. Visibility is high. Reputations travel fast.

And outcomes ripple quickly through tightly woven social and professional circles. Clients do not come to Burke simply for legal representation. They come because they need problems handled, reputations protected, and situations contained before they escalate.

That is where his reputation takes hold. His approach is grounded in precision. He is known for dissecting a case down to its smallest detail, identifying leverage points, and applying pressure where it matters most. He pairs that with a deep understanding of people, reading a room as carefully as he reads a legal brief. In a place like the Hamptons, that instinct is often just as critical as legal strategy.

His work spans criminal defense, negligence, and real estate, with a track record that includes high profile matters, substantial verdicts, and coverage in national outlets including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Vanity Fair. But the through line is consistency. He shows up prepared. He knows the players. He understands the environment. And he delivers.

The foundation for all of this runs deeper. The Burke family has been a legal fixture in the Hamptons since the 1970s, establishing a reputation built on discipline, discretion, and a deep understanding of the community. Edward Burke Sr.’s judicial leadership helped set that standard. Denise Burke’s many years on the Southampton Town Zoning Board of Appeals reinforced the family’s ties to the region. Joseph Burke spent years in the Southampton town attorney’s office, honing his expertise as a real estate attorney with a command of the local landscape.

For Burke, that legacy is not something he talks about often. It is something he operates from. What makes the story more compelling is that it is still unfolding. Alongside his wife, Tricia, Burke is raising the next generation, with his three sons, Matthew, EJ, and Brendan, already part of that continuum. EJ, now in his second year at Brooklyn Law School, has his sights set on leading an entertainment law practice, extending the Burke name into new arenas while carrying forward the same foundation it was built on.

In a region defined by transience, the Burkes are something else entirely. They are permanent. And in Edward Burke Jr., that legacy has taken on a distinctly modern form.

Edward Burke Jr. & Associates edwardburkejr.com

YOSHIKI

ROCK STAR, CREATIVE RENAISSANCE MAN, TIME 100 MEMBER

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“Yoshiki is the most famous person you’ve never heard of” reads the opening to his 2025 profile in Time magazine as one of its 100 most influential people. That is the perfect way to describe this renowned musician, who is something of a renaissance man: He is not only a rock musician but a classical musician, composer, songwriter, record producer, fashion designer, winemaker, film director, and philanthropist.

Leader of two rock bands, X Japan and The Last Rockstars, Yoshiki is Japan’s biggest rock star, with X Japan having sold over 30 million albums and singles and sold out the colossal 55,000-seat Tokyo Dome a record-breaking 18 times. He even composed the music for the emperor of Japan’s 10th anniversary ceremony, the World Expo, and the theme song for the Golden Globe Awards.

A TRUE ARTIST IN EVERY ENDEAVOR

The surprising thing about Yoshiki’s ventures in such diverse fields is that they are not just celebrity vanity projects; they are taken seriously in their respective industries. His line of kimonos was included in an exhibit on this style of dress at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London. In April 2025, Yoshiki was quoted in an expansive New York Times article about the global influence of Japanese fashion.

Fifteen years ago, when someone approached Yoshiki about creating his own wine brand, he was determined to take it seriously. He went to Napa to meet with the Mondavi family, and then spent five years experimenting to determine the brand’s direction. “I just didn’t give up, and I kept doing it,” he says. “About 10 years ago we hit on the right direction and started focusing, and that’s been actually pretty successful.”

of Yoshiki

As for fashion, his family had a kimono business, and he grew up watching his father create them from scratch, dying and cutting the fabrics. “So I experienced everything before my father died, every single step, how those fashion lines were made. It’s not flashy, it’s a lot of work.” When he started doing his own kimonos as well as his more recent fashion line, Maison Yoshiki Paris, he was involved in every single step, from choosing material to the cut to the style. “I’m very hands-on,” he says. With music, Yoshiki was a child prodigy who began learning classical piano at age 4 and then began playing drums at 10, after losing his father to suicide. “I was very sad and angry, so I started playing drums. So that’s how my rock-androll side emerged.”

When I ask Yoshiki how he defines himself considering his many fields of endeavor, he replies, “I’m an artist, simply focused on creating a masterpiece, no matter the form the art takes.”

STAN LEE COMIC-BOOK CHARACTER

About 15 years ago at his charity’s fundraising dinner, Stan Lee was seated next to Yoshiki. “I didn’t know who he was at that time, and he didn’t know who I was,” Yoshiki said. “I asked him what he does. He said, ‘I make superheroes.’ He asked me what I do. I said, ‘I’m a rock star.’ At that moment he said, ‘Why don’t we create something together?’ So we started creating that Blood Red Dragon character and comic book together.”

PHILANTHROPY

Yoshiki founded the Yoshiki Foundation America in 2010, originally to provide support for children in unfortunate

circumstances. But the scope of his philanthropy quickly expanded after a huge earthquake hit Japan in 2011. “I decided to support victims. Since then, I decided to support whoever needs help in the world, because I want to use my influence to do something good.” He now announces to whom his foundation has donated in the hope that his fans will follow suit and increase aid. Recent causes have ranged from environmental issues to victims of the Ukraine war, hurricanes, the Hualien earthquake in Taiwan, and the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires.

WHAT’S NEXT

After joining the Jonas Brothers’ Greetings From Your Hometown Tour performance at Barclays Center in Brooklyn this past fall, Yoshiki delivered a first of its kind arrangement of the Japanese national anthem at the 2026 FIA Formula One World Championship Aramco Japanese Grand Prix for more than 200,000 spectators and fans watching from more than 180 countries and regions worldwide.

The Formula One performance served as the ultimate prelude to Yoshiki’s highly anticipated concert series, Yoshiki Classical 2026: Awakening Eve, at the Tokyo Garden Theater, and his upcoming two-night exclusive performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles on July 16 and 17. These shows kick off chapter one of his 2026 world tour.

“Following my third surgery and an extensive period of recovery, I am looking forward to delivering my full sound to the world,” said Yoshiki.

Yoshiki yoshiki.net

SYDNEY JAMES HARCOURT

THE STAR OF CATS: THE JELLICLE BALL TALKS TO SOCIAL LIFE ABOUT HIS JOURNEY TO BROADWAY

On a recent afternoon in New York City, Sydney James Harcourt was doing what he always does before a big Broadway moment: resting.

“I can’t go out,” he says with a laugh. “I’ve got to get up at dawn and go to the gym. And every bar is a super-spreader

event, and I can’t be sick. It keeps my body the way I want it to be and it serves my voice.”

That voice, rich and capable of sliding from classical soprano lines to contemporary pop riffs, earned him a Grammy for Hamilton and cemented his reputation as one of Broadway’s most dynamic performers. Now the actor, singer, and dancer is stepping into the iconic role of Rum Tum Tugger, alongside Hadestown Tony winner André De Shields, as well as Cynthia Erivo, Billy Porter, LaChanze, Jeremy Pope, and Lena Waithe in the reimagined Broadway production of Cats, produced by Michael Harrison and Mike Bosner.

And this isn’t your childhood Cats.

Cats: The Jellicle Ball folds voguing and house music traditions into Andrew Lloyd Webber’s global phenomenon. For Harcourt, an LGBTQ+ advocate and member of the House of Oricci, the concept is personal.

FROM DETROIT TO DISCIPLINE

Harcourt’s journey to Broadway began in Detroit. Raised by a piano-prodigy father, he was steeped in music early. “They thought I was going to have the same gift,” he recalls. “I liked it, but singing felt like magic.”

As a teenager, he received a full scholarship to study classical voice at Interlochen Arts Academy in northern Michigan.

“I auditioned for The Nutcracker to be a party parent,” he says, grinning. “But a larger guy tore his rotator cuff, and they asked if I wanted to learn the partnering for the Arabian pas de deux. I grew up overweight and never went to a school dance. So to be dancing onstage, it was intoxicating.”

Harcourt became Interlochen’s first double major in voice and dance, spending mornings in academics, afternoons in voice lessons, and evenings in dance rehearsals. “That’s where the discipline began,” he says.

A BALLROOM CALLING

When Harcourt left school and moved to New York, he was pursuing stardom. But he was also discovering himself.

“I’m this gay kid who never experienced gay culture,” he says. “The first thing I did was explore club life.” In Michigan, there was no ballroom scene. In New York, he watched dancers take over club floors, executing death-defying moves.

So when his agents called about Cats, Harcourt felt seen. “In other rooms, I felt like I had to hide parts of myself. But there, they wanted all of me.”

A NEW RUM TUM TUGGER

The press has exploded with rave reviews of Harcourt as Rum Tum Tugger. The New York Times called Harcourt a “scene stealer,” while the New York Post dubbed him “the show’s dynamo standout … with a sumptuous voice and rock star’s command of the stage.”

Rum Tum Tugger has long been the show’s sexy showboat. Harcourt’s interpretation, however, leans into ballroom’s “pretty-boy realness” category.

“There’s a sensuality and a confidence,” he explains.

His archetypes? “Prince, George Michael, Usher. They embody what drives everybody wild about male pop.”

The production team also encouraged him to infuse the role with himself. “That was scary. On Broadway, you worry about not doing enough,” he says. “But sometimes when you do less, it’s magnetizing.”

Even Melissa McCarthy noticed. After attending an early performance, the actress asked to meet him backstage. “She said, ‘I couldn’t take my eyes off of you, how subtle you were.’ For me, that’s what it’s about. Draw everyone in, keep it sexy, still keep it Rum Tum Tugger.”

BIGGER THAN HAMILTON?

WORLD DOMINATION, NATURALLY

In between eight-show weeks, Harcourt is dreaming bigger: “In the words of Madonna, world domination.”

Harcourt, an original company member of Hamilton who stepped in as Aaron Burr after Leslie Odom Jr. in a careerchanging triumph, doesn’t shy away from bold predictions about Cats.

“This is going to be so much bigger than Hamilton,” he says carefully. “To take a Broadway staple and give it an anthem for resistance, I think it will resonate in a way Hamilton couldn’t.”

Becoming the first Black Rum Tum Tugger on Broadway is not lost on him. “The talent, diversity, and love on our team is unparalleled. Sometimes it’s bigger than I can really take in,” he admits.

He has written an album and is building toward onscreen roles after appearing in Castlevania: Nocturne, Blue Bloods, Law & Order, Elementary, and Doc. He’s also developing a film about Bert Williams, one of America’s first Black megastars, whose legacy was complicated by performing in blackface. “His story speaks to me,” Harcourt says.

In Harcourt’s world, discipline is devotion, vulnerability is power, and the ball is just beginning.

Sydney James Harcourt Instagram: @sydneyharcourt

NANCY DAVIS

PEACE

Nancy Davis is a powerhouse. The Denver native and Beverly Hills local has faced challenge after challenge and hasn’t backed down. In fact, these hardships have only fueled her. Motivated by her battle with MS and her son’s struggles with drug use, Davis founded two charities, Race to Erase MS and Cure Addiction Now. Ever driven, Davis also authored Lean on Me, a guide to navigating an MS diagnosis and launched Peace & Love by Nancy Davis, a jewelry line that donates a portion of its profits to her MS Center Without Walls.

CHARITY RUNS IN HER BLOOD

Entrepreneurial spirit and a drive to create a better future are in Nancy Davis’s DNA. Her father, the late billionaire Marvin Davis, was the chairman of Davis Petroleum and owned 20th Century Fox, the Beverly Hills Hotel, the Pebble Beach Corporation, and the Aspen Skiing Company.

While Davis got her ambition from her father, her generosity comes from her mother, Barbara, the mastermind behind the Carousel of Hope Ball in Beverly Hills since its founding in 1978. Her efforts have not gone unrewarded; the annual event has attracted every major Hollywood star from Beyoncé to George Clooney and raised millions of dollars toward research on juvenile diabetes and ensuring people with the disease can access the best possible clinical and educational programs.

Davis has raised five beloved children—Brandon, Alexander, Jason, Mariella, and Isabella—who have gone on to make their own mark on society.

HER RACE TO ERASE MS

Race to Erase MS remains the cornerstone of Davis’s philanthropic life. She founded the organization in 1993, two years after receiving her multiple sclerosis diagnosis at age 33. At the time, MS research offered little reassurance; there were no FDA-approved drugs, little understanding of the disease, and few reasons for optimism.

“I was told I’d be lucky to operate the remote control on my television,” Davis recalled. “I had three young children and was basically told to go home and go to bed.”

Instead, Davis sought second opinions, and then a different solution altogether. She recognized that many of the world’s most brilliant scientists were working in isolation, often duplicating each other’s efforts without realizing it. Race to Erase MS was built to change that model.

Through its Center Without Walls, the foundation requires leading MS researchers to communicate openly about both successes and failures. That structure, Davis believes, accelerated progress that might have otherwise taken decades longer.

Today, there are 25 FDA-approved treatments. “For someone being diagnosed today, there is so much more hope,” Davis said. erasems.org

HER FIGHT TO CURE ADDICTION NOW

Inspired by her son, Jason, Nancy Davis founded Cure Addiction Now in 2018. Though Jason passed away in 2020, his influence remains central to the organization’s mission. Cure Addiction Now focuses on funding basic science research into substance use disorder, an area Davis says has been overlooked despite the scale of the crisis. “People assume addiction treatment is solved because we’ve had the same system for 80 years,” Davis said. “But the reality is that it only works for a very small percentage of people.”

Cure Addiction Now supports research into medications and therapies that address addiction as a biological and mental health condition, not a moral failing. That belief is embedded in Davis’s jewelry designs as well. Her Peace & Love jewelry line was born during an early Race to Erase MS Gala, inspired by a desire to communicate hope during uncertain times. One recurring symbol, the teddy bear, became closely associated with Cure Addiction Now and Jason’s legacy. “The message is simple,” Davis said. “Instead of pushing people away, we embrace them.” cureaddictionnow.org

CELEBRATING SUCCESS AND LOOKING AHEAD

To commemorate her charities’ achievements, Davis teamed up with high-end jeweler, Michel Piranesi, in New York City to plan a spectacular fête at Piranesi’s shop in Aspen, Colorado. The Aspen boutique was transformed for the evening into a warm, candlelit setting designed for conversation and browsing fine jewelry. A portion of every purchase made throughout the night would directly support both Race to Erase MS and Cure Addiction Now.

“If we can keep people talking, collaborating, and caring, we get closer.” she said. “That’s how this started. And that’s how we’ll finish it.” piranesi.com

Davis is now working on organizing her annual Race to Erase MS 2026 gala on June 5 at the Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles, which will benefit her Center Without Walls program. The evening will entail a fashion show by L’Agence, live entertainment, cocktails, and dinner, as well as silent and live auctions. Past years’ attendees, including Casey Affleck, Neil Patrick Harris, Kathy Hilton, Kelly Osbourne, John Travolta, and Tommy and Dee Hilfiger, have enjoyed performances from Elton John, the Eagles, and Stevie Nicks.

u To learn more about the 33rd annual Race to Erase MS gala please visit: erasems.org

HERB KARLITZ

THE EVENT MARKETER TELLS US ABOUT CREATING ELEVATED DINING EXPERIENCES

Herb Karlitz has spent more than three decades creating experiences that people talk about long after the event is over.

“When I look back, the through line is entertaining the customer,” Karlitz said. “Whether it was music and concerts, chefs and restaurants, it was always about creating something that would entertain and be memorable.”

In the late 1980s, Karlitz was a pioneer in entertainment and music marketing, creating sponsorships with artists including Frank Sinatra, Stevie Wonder, Gloria Estefan, Bon Jovi, and others. A drummer by passion and a lawyer by training, Karlitz was also passionate about food and wine, inspired by his parents who owned restaurants where he honed his cooking skills and enjoyed meals alongside his wife, Julie.

“Breaking bread together is how you build relationships,” he said. “That’s really what it comes down to.”

Karlitz began to see chefs and restaurants as another form of entertainment, with dining rooms as stages and chefs as performers. “If you go to a restaurant and you don’t have a good time, you’re not going back,” he said. “It’s that simple.”

KARLITZ & CO.

AT WINDOWS ON THE WORLD

His first major culinary event took place in 1994 at Windows on the World, featuring celebrated chef Michael Lomonaco and master sommelier Andrea Immer Robinson. “It sold out,” Karlitz said. “That paved the way for thousands of experiences.”

Over more than 35 years, Karlitz has produced more than 13,000 events worldwide, growing Karlitz & Co. from roughly 10 events a year to nearly 400 annually. He’s partnered with dozens of global brands including American

Express, Resy, EY, Merrill Lynch, and The Breeder’s Cup and also has produced many significant concerts and food and wine festivals.

But his formula is intentionally anti-formula. “Anybody with money can buy a ticket,” Karlitz said. “But if you create something people can’t do on their own, that’s when it matters.”

He never wanted chefs as clients, although many asked him to represent them. “I could never take money from a chef; they work too hard,” Karlitz said. “Chefs are my friends. I knew most of them back when they were just called cooks. There’s no hidden agenda and they trust me.”

With just about every celebrity and Michelin chef on speeddial, Karlitz has parlayed that trust into unique experiences that feel intimate rather than transactional: making pasta with a chef, hunting truffles in Italy, or sharing a simple pizza that becomes unforgettable because of who’s at the table.

“Not everything is about caviar or expensive wine,” Karlitz said. “People are passionate about pizza. They’re passionate about burgers, or a $50 hard-to-get wine that tastes like a $500 bottle only ‘insiders’ know about. It’s about what money can’t buy, and people’s ability to tell the story someone else can’t.”

CHEF MARCUS SAMUELSSON AND HARLEM EATUP!

That philosophy has carried through some of his most impactful work, including Harlem EatUp!, which he created with celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson.

“That festival brought national attention to Harlem’s culinary and cultural history. We wanted to tell a story,” Karlitz said. “More than 90 percent of the people who came had never been there before.” Even rain couldn’t stop it. “People showed up in galoshes, umbrellas, and plastic bags over their shoes,” he said. “That’s how you knew it mattered. We also involved the charity City Meals on Wheels, which delivers meals to the elderly in Harlem.”

Celebrity Chefs & Friends Golf, Tennis & Pickleball Tournament

2026 is scheduled for June 22 at the Montclair Golf Club.

At home, Karlitz’s philosophy is just as personal. He hosts annual dinners, inviting chefs, sommeliers, and friends to share wines from his cellar. “They are meant to be shared around a good meal. That’s the bonding experience that resonates long after the plates are cleared and the wine glasses are empty,” he said.

Karlitz took this mantra to EATUP!, an ABC 7 special he co-produced with Samuelsson. The special highlights African American chefs and small-business owners, starting with beloved spots including Sylvia’s restaurant, Evelyn’s Kitchen, and Bar Kabawa.

He also hosted a panel on elevated, intimate dining experiences at the New York Restaurant Show with Samuelsson and chefs Simon Kim, Ayesha Nurdjaja, and Eugene Remm.

Giving is woven into Karlitz’s work throughout the year. Next up is his 7th annual Celebrity Chefs & Friends Golf, Tennis & Pickleball Tournament on June 22 at the Montclair Golf Club. The event brings together more than 120 celebrity chefs, restaurateurs, athletes, and celebrities for friendly competition and a fun celebrity chef tasting reception. Over the past six years, the tournament has raised enough to provide 5 million meals to New Yorkers in need.

“I can’t wrap my head around kids going hungry,” Karlitz said. “Not when we live in a world where people can spend millions to go into space just for fun.”

Karlitz & Company karlitz.com info@karlitz.com 212.287.5272

A SOUTH FORK IN THE ROAD

DINE, SLUMBER, AND SPLURGE IN THE HAMPTONS

EAST HAMPTON

The approach to East Hampton from State Route 27 onto Main Street begins with a sparkling pond flanked by historical properties and fine resorts. This spectacular region never gets old, beckoning you to return. World-class restaurants, boutiques, and the proverbial windmill or two make the journey worthwhile.

Crazy Pizza

Crazy Pizza returns to the East End this season, ready to delight. Expect handtossed thin-crust pizzas and Italian classics made with ingredients imported from Italy, along with locally sourced seasonal treasures. The cocktail menu is delightful with lighter options for perfect pairing, ideal for warmer weather. Live DJ sets and a retro-glam vibe expressed in the design merge with East Hampton’s coastal charm across an expansive space with 100 seats, a 10-seat central bar, and an alfresco dining set up beneath string lights in the garden. For a fun experience, chef-led pizza-making classes for both adults and children are available.

Lion’s Nook Bar & Grill

Located in East Hampton’s Parrish Mews, in the space that once housed the revered O’Malley’s and Rowdy Hall, this new dining spot will bring exceptional food and hospitality while paying homage to Lion Gardiner, one of East Hampton’s earliest English settlers. With Fabian Rodas from the Springs Tavern team at the helm as executive chef, Lion’s Nook will offer tasty American cuisine featuring a blend of refined dishes crafted with fresh local catches, meats, and produce, along with a selection of Tavern menu favorites, such as its classic burger.

Camp Rubirosa

Opened in the heart of Nolita 15 years ago, Rubirosa, owned by Maria Pappalardo and her family, has become a New York City staple, famous for its signature tie-die pizza, house-made pastas, and welcoming vibe. For the first time in its history, Rubirosa has expanded beyond New York City with Camp Rubirosa. Presented by Resy as a seasonal pop-up in East Hampton, the concept will now become a permanent fixture on Race Lane. Camp Rubirosa serves signature tie-dye pizza, house-made pastas, and fresh local seafood in a nostalgic, camp-inspired setting. Guests can dine alfresco in a glamorous tent or inside Ciao Hall, where vintage water skis, wooden tennis racquets, and lantern-lit tables set the mood.

Rita Cantina

This modern Mexican cantina features renowned East Hampton chef Eric Miller along with his partners Adam Miller, who is behind Rita Cantina’s mindfully curated bar program and design, and Marc Miller, who handles operations. Offering a perfect fusion of texture and taste, the vibe is welcoming and authentically Mexican, the booth seats adorned with rich Mexican fabrics, the walls with select fine art direct from Mexico. The bar is vibrant, with guests enjoying top-shelf offerings such as the outstanding collection of tequilas here or perhaps a traditional margarita (or two). A back patio with indigenous plants, Adirondack chairs, and white picnic tables awaits, on a bed of sand and beneath a canopy of vintage yellow umbrellas. A bonfire surrounded by matching beach chairs allows guests to sip and dine in an atmosphere beyond a sit-down dinner indoors. The food is inventive, magnificently plated, and delicious. Make sure to try some of their new items on the menu, such as beet tartare with whipped goat cheese or the flavorful black bass with green ceviche, roja sauce, and lime. The scallop agua chili with corn, cucumber, lime, and serrano

is fresh, with just the right kick, neither overwhelming nor muted. Be sure to be on the lookout for Chef Eric, as he oversees and mingles in the dining room with obvious passion.

Moby’s

Moby’s offers an Italian-inspired menu, focused on locally sourced produce, wood fired pizzas, pastas, and local seafood, plus such starters as the Montauk calamari with lemon aioli, green onions, and lemon. The black bass with zucchini, garlic scapes, and salsa verde is beyond comparison. This season, Manhattan’s beloved Tusk Bar in Moby’s is out east with a curated menu featuring a rotation of five to six cocktails, mixing Tusk favorites with new creations. Highlights include a gin-and-tonic riff infused with umé, a smoked olive oil dirty martini known as the Smoke Show, and a spicy margarita variation with passion fruit called the Marigol. While Tusk’s Manhattan location is known for its intimate New York City vibe, Moby’s offers something more laid-back but nonetheless maintains its excellence.

The Baker House 1650

Nestled in the heart of the East Hampton village and beloved, The Baker House 1650 features manicured English gardens, elegant period furnishings, and a tranquil spa, offering guests a uniquely curated retreat that blends history and luxury throughout the property. A masterpiece of 17th century Cotswold-inspired architecture, guests are immediately charmed its evocation of a classic English manor, fusing old-world charm with modern conveniences and amenities.

The Maidstone

The New York–based LDV Hospitality, under the guidance of John Meadow and his team, brings Italian luxury to the area with its signature culinary excellence. The more than 150-year-old boutique hotel compound, with its whitewash shingles and green awnings, beckons you to dine or lodge here—or perhaps both. Refreshed guestroom interiors feature a calming natural palette, earthy tones, warm

amber, and sunset-inspired pale peach, all conjuring the coastline. Updated public spaces continue this palette, with shades of greens and blues inspired by the ocean and sky. The menu crafted by chef Jorge Espinoza, renowned for his tenure at Scarpetta, evokes an Italian coastal summer in the Hamptons. The squid ink linguine with crabmeat, uni, Calabrian chili, and lemon is fresh and delightful. An expansive bar menu of crafted cocktails and wines, including an aperitivo hour, encourages you to linger.

The

Millhouse Inn

Enter and be immediately engaged by the welcoming staff, poised to make every promise come to life, all designed to pamper you. In your suite you’ll find crisp white furnishings, fully appointed with a casual beach vibe, warmed up by precious antique furniture in rich wood. Each also includes a stand-alone bathtub. From the lush property the occasional faint sound of a train can be heard passing through, an unexpected retro lullaby. Mornings here are about breakfast, as the menu offers a variety of tasty and inventive choices, such as the signature blueberry pancakes, hearty

and dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon. You can enjoy anything from an English Breakfast tea to an extra strong and rich cup of coffee, brewed in a way unique to the inn. Also snacks such as the beloved retro Cracker Jacks and yummy homemade cookies are offered to guests—take as many as you, please, as seconds are encouraged.

EHP Resort & Marina

One of the Hamptons’ most coveted waterfront escapes, EHP Resort & Marina has officially reopened, welcoming guests back to its nine-acre sanctuary overlooking Three Mile Harbor. This property blends a modern Mediterranean feel with private cottage accommodations, a full-service marina, and an impressive culinary program. Guests can enjoy elevated amenities, including a resort pool, tennis and pickleball courts, a state of the art fitness center, complimentary Bluejay electric bikes, and a perfectly manicured great lawn. The property also boasts a premier 58-slip marina, a sunset deck, a resort shop, and a complimentary seasonal boat

cruise aboard a 40-foot Van Dutch.

Sí Sí, inspired by the coastal Mediterranean, features the vibrant flavors of Italy, Greece, Spain, and beyond, from its signature paella to bucatini verde with lobster. World-class wines and handcrafted cocktails enhance your dining experience. This waterfront restaurant features an expansive indoor and outdoor bar, fabulous weekend brunches, DJ nights, and celebrity guest bartenders. Their refreshed menu will now feature sushi and sashimi, as well as experiential dishes such as the 36-ounce Swinging Wagyu Tomahawk Steak, carved tableside.

This season, Sí Sí introduces new weekly programming, including Jazz Thursdays, Sunset Sessions on Fridays and Saturdays, with a rotating mix of live bands and singers, and Reggae Sundays. The Boat House is an all-day Italian-style café and espresso bar, serving Jack’s Stir Brew Coffee and many hot drinks, along with Roman-style pizza, salads, and grab-and-go options. The Wayan & Ma•dé residency returns for its second season, with its Indonesian French concept brought by the esteemed Cédric and Ochi Vongerichten.

NOURISH BY THE ROUNDTREE

Balinese-inspired restaurants that offer as much of a scene as they do serious cooking are rare, if they exist on the East End at all. This summer, Bridgehampton gets one with the arrival of Nourish by The Roundtree, opening May 2026.

The project comes from Sylvia Wong, the force behind The Roundtree, Amagansett, a boutique property known for its polished, design-driven take on Hamptons hospitality. With Nourish, she’s extending that point of view into a restaurant that feels considered but not overly worked.

In the kitchen, executive chef Dewa Wijaya brings a perspective shaped by his Balinese roots and more than two decades with Como Hotels and Resorts. His cooking balances wellness and depth of flavor, and that approach carries through here.

The menu starts with East End ingredients, pairing them with Indonesian flavors and weaving them into Chef Dewa’s recipes.

Produce, seafood, and meats sourced locally, including from Balsam Farms, set the foundation. His dishes are layered without being heavy or too complex: chilled sweet corn soup with basil and pine nuts; flame grilled jumbo prawns with chickpea-carrot purée and pickled shallots; slow-cooked beef short rib with curry and coconut rice. Even Hamptons staples like a lobster roll or sirloin from Acabonac Farm are approached with more care through sourcing and technique.

The bar program follows suit, drawing from local orchards and seasonal ingredients for a mix of cocktails, zero-proof drinks, and house-made kombuchas. The nonalcoholic options feel fully integrated rather than like an afterthought, reflecting how people are choosing to drink now.

Design plays a central role. The space favors natural materials, soft light, and an easy indoor outdoor flow that fits Bridgehampton and the East End’s coastal vibe. It’s relaxed but still polished, the kind of room where the setting is part of the draw as much as the food.

In a Hamptons dining landscape that often swings between over-the-top and overly casual, Nourish lands in a more compelling middle. It feels rooted in its surroundings while looking outward, bringing a perspective that remains hard to find out east.

Nourish by The Roundtree

631.600.8852

203 Bridgehampton-Sag Harbor Turnpike, Bridgehampton nourishbyroundtree.com

ANDREW MOLEN

SOCIAL LIFE SITS DOWN WITH THE CULINARY WONDER BOY TO DISCUSS BEING A ROCK STAR IN THE KITCHEN

Andrew Molen, who has been in restaurant kitchens since he was a little boy, calls from a Delta Lounge at Los Angeles Airport. He has just finished doing two private events in Orange County and was on his way to the Masters to cook for the third year in a row. Such is the life of the immensely popular chef who knows everyone, from reality TV stars to sports celebrities to famous politicians. Molen, who has been coming out to the Hamptons since he was 18 and owns two homes in Southampton, has plenty of fun stories to share about the bold and the beautiful.

Do you remember what your first time in a restaurant kitchen felt like?

My mother, Sandra Arcara, owned a lounge on the Upper East Side called Swells. As far as I can remember, she would take me with her when she went to work. I would always end up in the kitchen, and the guys would ask me to help them with small stuff. I enjoyed the camaraderie even as a little boy. The kitchen is a sacred brotherhood even with all the egos.

While you can cook any cuisine, what is your favorite?

I am like a Swiss Army knife. I can practically cook anything. However, I genuinely enjoy preparing Mexican food. That goes back to my mother’s family roots in California, which are over 200 years old.

From among your culinary mentors, which include world-famous chefs like Jean-Georges Vongerichten, who did you enjoy working with most?

Among the many giants I have been lucky to work with, Todd English stands out. I traveled with him and tasted different cuisines in their home countries. He is a true visionary.

Favorite event that you cooked for?

Ramona Singer, who is fun in and out of the kitchen. When you work with Ramona, the laughter never stops.

You spend summers in the Hamptons for work. What are your favorite restaurants out east?

El Verano in Southampton. Wonderful, elevated Mexican cuisine, and it’s owned by my buddy Julien.

What’s your favorite beach?

Cooper Beach has it all. It’s also nice on the way back to look at the beautiful homes on Meadow Lane and pick your future one.

And lastly, your favorite grocery store?

I find that Citarella has the biggest range of choices for seafood and provisions. The management works with me on fulfilling my list for my next event.

BOTANICALLY YOURS, SUMMER 2026

Happy Memorial Day weekend 2026 to all! After a long winter, it’s been an extended—and blooming—early spring, and we are more than ready for that perfect, balanced Zen cocktail that we can savor and toast to our loved ones and the timeless beauty of every sunset, and wish each and every one of you an unforgettable summer ahead.

So…here we go! This summer is all about our return to our roots—and both literally and in cocktail parlance, this is all about botanicals. Adventurous bar creatives are now going unapologetically “garden to table,” infusing spirits with rosemary, thyme, and chamomile, and incorporating fun edible flowers such hibiscus and lavender, using fresh citrus and homemade syrups as accent notes. In other words, the sprigs of lavender, rosemary, and mint in the corner of your backyard may not just grace your tabletops but can also help you concoct delicately fragrant, layered cocktails for your guests to enjoy, transporting them right into Provence or Tuscany.

If we think about it, the 2026 botanical trend also aligns with “mindful drinking”: an oxymoron of the millennial age, but sure, let’s go with it! Low ABV all the way—and many of these botanical cocktails are indeed lower in sugar and alcohol. Some even include a hint of health, with herbal tea or plant extracts.

As long as we are focusing on garden lavender, let’s try this one: floral and tart, with beautiful lilac tones, and the egg white foam lending a vintage edge.

Lavender Garden Fizz

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz gin

• 0.5 oz lavender syrup

• 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice

• 2 oz sparkling water

• Egg white (for foam!)

Directions: Shake gin, syrup, lemon, and egg white. Add ice, shake again, then strain into a glass and top with sparkling water. (Hold to the light for the sheer color of it and enjoy!)

Here’s another very appealing one: Tart and chill, the perfect amber-toned early-summer aperitif:

Citrus Botanical Spritz

Ingredients:

• 1 oz dry vermouth

• 1 oz grapefruit or blood orange juice

• 2 oz sparkling wine or soda

• Rosemary sprig (for remembrance of course)

Directions:

Add all ingredients over ice, stir gently, and garnish with rosemary.

And finally, for the bittersweet palates among us:

Botanical Rouge

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Campari or Aperol

• 1 oz gin

• 1 oz sweet vermouth

• Orange peel

Directions: Add all ingredients in shaker or large glass, stir with ice, and strain over a large cube.

Spring 2026 has sprung. Fashion one of the cocktails above, or head into your garden and experiment! Either way, grab ice, a shaker, and your favorite coupe glass, put your toes in the sand, and make a wish for a spectacular summer ahead. Happy Memorial Day!

Write your summer

memories here!

Saturday, July 18 & 25