LIFESTYLE LETTER
Love Local and Embrace Wellness This Season
Dear Darien and New Canaan Community, February is here, and with it comes a renewed focus on the heart of our community—supporting local, celebrating wellness, and savoring life’s simple pleasures. This month, we’ve curated stories that inspire a cozy, healthful winter, and encourage you to connect more deeply with the people and places that make our towns so special.
Our featured story catches up with the ever-inspir ing Anna Kaiser, sharing what’s new in her world and how she’s continuing to influence wellness and fitness on a grand scale. Speaking of wellness, don’t miss the delicious Maple Pecan Baked Oatmeal recipe from registered dietitian Alyssa Lavy, MS, RD, CDN. It’s just the thing to warm you up on a chilly morning, fueling your body and soul with wholesome goodness.
You’ll also find @Styleelyst and her fashion picks to keep you looking and feeling your best, along with Anna’s latest article, sure to spark ideas for your next adventure, project, or pursuit. And of course, our monthly columnist Megan Schinella highlights her top local picks and experiences, guiding you toward the best ways to enjoy all that Darien and New Canaan have to offer.
As you flip through these pages, we hope you’re reminded that life is richer when we lift each other up, shop small, and celebrate our community’s unique character. Let this February be filled with warmth, local love, and inspiration to carry you through the rest of winter—and beyond.
Wishing you a month of coziness and connection,
LAURA
SABIA, PUBLISHER
@DARIENNEWCANAANLIFESTYLEMAG
February 2025
PUBLISHER
Laura Sabia | laura.sabia@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Kristin Burnell | kristin.burnell@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Emma Parente | emma.parente@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Anna Barnes, Ashley Cannon, Alyssa Lavy
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Brook Road Photography, Sydney Sheehan Photography, Duke Loren
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick
Proverbs 3:5-6
scene
1 - 14: Filling In The Blanks 4th Annual Holiday Backpack Influencer Event, where attendees helped fill 9,000 Holiday Backpacks for the kids in their Weekend Meal Program
Photography by Sydney Sheehan Photography
Photography by Sydney Sheehan Photography
business monthly
New Trustee to Join the Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum’s Board
The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum is pleased to announce that David Heuvelman will join the Board of Trustees. LMMM Chairman of the Board Douglas E. Hempstead said, “We are thrilled that David will join our Board. He brings to the Mansion a deep knowledge of arts and culture, a passion for history, and a longstanding commitment to our community. I am sure he will play a significant role in growing and enhancing this National Historic Landmark.”
Now Open: Magnolia Darien
In December, The Darien Chamber celebrated the opening of Magnolia, welcoming the new, fashion forward women’s boutique to Darien Commons. Magnolia brings chic, curated styles including everyday essentials and standout pieces for special occasions!
Photo: Lizzy Walsh, Jennifer Lia, Deb Hidy, Lindsay McGuckin, Liz Benedict, Kesti Aysseh, Maggie Kelly, Heather Pfeifle, DCC Board Members: Corrie Belardinelli, Maria Hernandez, Neenu Sharma, and Arianne O’Donnell
Kinney Lane x SproutWell Salad
Introducing the Kinney x SproutWell Salad , a nourishing collaboration between Kinney Lane and SproutWell Pediatric Integrative Medicine. Packed with plantbased protein from quinoa & roasted chickpeas, along with immune-boosting veggies, this vibrant salad promotes lasting energy and wellness. Antioxidantrich cranberries, apples add natural sweetness, while pepitas offer heart-healthy fats and crunch. Topped with a gut-friendly apple cider citrus vinaigrette, it’s a delicious way for busy families to embrace nutrition and stay connected to good health!
Photography by Brook Road Photography
Photography by Dillan Aysseh
Photography Courtesy of David Heuvelman
Family | Cosmetic | Airway Centric Dentistry
MAKING YOUR DREAMSmile A
Botox | TMJ | Migraine DR. BECKIE D’ANDREA, DDS
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Getaway
ARTICLE BY ANNA BARNES PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY THE RITZ-CARLTON, BACHELOR GULCH
The Perfect Ski Getaway Is A Direct Flight Away at The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch
& Après
Nestled amidst the breathtaking Vail Valley, The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch offers an unparalleled luxurious vacation experience. Whether you’re looking for a romantic ski getaway or an outdoor family adventure, this five-star resort seamlessly combines rustic elegance with top-tier amenities, creating the perfect retreat for ski enthusiasts and leisure travelers alike.
Wearing the Off The Clock
One Piece Snow Suit from The North Face
From the moment you arrive, you are enveloped in grandeur and comfort. The resort’s architecture, inspired by classic mountain lodges, features towering timber beams, warm stonework, and expansive windows that frame the surrounding snow-draped landscape.
The accommodations at The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch are nothing short of spectacular. Guests can choose from elegant rooms, suites, or private residential units, each designed with an emphasis on comfort and sophistication. Rich wood accents and modern amenities create a cozy yet opulent atmosphere. Many rooms feature private balconies or terraces, offering panoramic views.
The resort’s location on Beaver Creek Mountain makes it a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding. With over 1,800 acres of meticulously groomed trails, the mountain caters to all skill levels. One of the last true ski-in, ski-out resorts, staying at The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch means you can spend less time commuting and more time on the mountain. The crown jewel of the winter amenities is undoubtedly the Ski Concierge and Ski Valet, just ask anyone who’s
previously schlepped multiple pairs of skis around. The Ski Concierge and Ski Valet are on hand to assist with equipment storage and ensure a seamless transition from luxury in the hotel to adventure on the slopes. Beyond skiing, Bachelor Gulch offers a variety of outdoor activities like snowshoeing and snowmobiling, along with other winter adventures.
After a day on the slopes, you can rejuvenate your body and mind at the spa. The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Bachelor Gulch, is a sanctuary of tranquility, offering an extensive menu of treatments designed to soothe and invigorate. The spa also features a grotto with a rock-lined hot tub, steam rooms, and saunas for ultimate relaxation.
“FROM THE MOMENT YOU ARRIVE, YOU ARE ENVELOPED IN GRANDEUR AND COMFORT. THE RESORT’S ARCHITECTURE, INSPIRED BY CLASSIC MOUNTAIN LODGES, FEATURES TOWERING TIMBER BEAMS, WARM STONEWORK, AND EXPANSIVE WINDOWS THAT FRAME THE SURROUNDING SNOWDRAPED LANDSCAPE.”
Make sure to work up an appetite on the slopes because culinary excellence is a hallmark of The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch. The resort boasts a variety of dining options that cater to every palate. At WYLD, which is Michelin Guide Recommended, guests can enjoy inventive dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients that truly capture the essence of the valley. While every entrée is expertly crafted, be sure to save room for dessert because the chocolate chip cookie paired S’mores inspired ice cream is nothing short of extraordinary.
Buffalos, a more casual option, offers hearty comfort food and an impressive selection of craft beers and cocktails. Known for their iconic Bison Burger, the menu offers a fantastic selection of dishes that are sure to impress.
For sushi lovers, Sakaba features fresh fish flown in multiple times a week from Japan, complemented by an impressive selection of sake, artisanal Japanese spirits and cocktails. This restaurant features indoor-outdoor dining, allowing you to savor your meal mountainside while staying cozy by the fire. Go for the Tuna Crispy Rice, stay for the Den Denga Ku Eggplant.
It’s no secret that The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch goes above and beyond to cater to their guests’ every need. For families, the Ritz Kids and Ski Nanny programs offer engaging activities to keep young guests entertained, including nature hikes, arts and crafts, and seasonal activities. For children enrolled in Beaver Creek Group Ski School's full-day program, the Ski Nanny service pairs professionals with children to assist with their gear and accompany them to and from mountain lessons, allowing parents to make the most of their time on the slopes. Four-legged family members are also welcomed as the resort has a famed and fuzzy mascot; a Saint Bernard appropriately named “Bachelor” who warmly greets guests upon arrival.
If you’re looking to indulge in Après-ski culture, you’re in the right place as it’s aptly celebrated here with live music, handcrafted cocktails, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. You can warm up in the Great Room, with floor-to-ceiling windows and roaring fireplace or, for a livelier Après, enjoy a live DJ mountainside on the Fridays and Saturdays. Either way you Après, it’s the perfect ending to a day spent enjoying the mountain. While The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch offers everything you need, Beaver Creek Village is just a short shuttle ride away, and is home to charming shops, art galleries, and additional dining options.
A vacation at The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch is more than just a trip—it’s a perfectly (guilt-free) indulgent, fun experience. The resort’s commitment to creating an unforgettable stay for their guests ensures that every moment is memorable. From the impeccable service and luxurious accommodations to the endless array of activities and amenities, every aspect of your stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch is sure to create lasting memories on and off the slopes.
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WARM
OATMEAL BAKED
ARTICLE BY ALYSSA LAVY, MS, RD, CDN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALYSSA LAVY, MS, RD, CDN
Warm Up With This Cozy Maple Pecan Baked Oatmeal
This warm maple pecan baked oatmeal is just as delicious when enjoyed fresh out of the oven as it is when heated as a quick and easy meal prep item. With cozy winter flavors like maple syrup, cinnamon and pecan, it can warm up the chilliest winter mornings while keeping you full and satisfied with heart and gut healthy fiber, as well as protein and nourishing fats. It will become your go-to brunch recipe for a crowd and your favorite breakfast meal prep for busy mornings. Enjoy as is, or top with a dollop of yogurt, a drizzle of nut or seed butter and fresh fruit!
• ¾ C plain Greek yogurt (2% or whole recommended)
• 2 C milk (2% or whole recommended)
• 3 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted then cooled to room temperature
• ¼ C pure maple syrup
• Nonstick cooking spray
Serves: 8-10
INGREDIENTS:
• 3 C rolled oats, dry
• ¾ C mashed ripe bananas (approximately 3 medium bananas)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¼ C ground flaxseed
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 tsp cinnamon
• 3 Tbsp brown sugar, packed
• 1 ½ C pecans, chopped
• 2 large eggs
DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Spray 9x13 casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
3. Add mashed bananas and oats to a large mixing bowl. Add all other dry ingredients (baking powder, ground flaxseed, salt, cinnamon, brown sugar, chopped pecans). Set aside.
4. Crack eggs into a separate, smaller bowl and whisk together. Add to large mixing bowl.
5. Add all other wet ingredients (Greek yogurt, milk, melted and cooled butter, maple syrup).
Use a large spoon to mix together all ingredients until combined. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes, then transfer to a casserole dish.
6. Bake in oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 55 minutes, until set in the middle and cooked through*. Let cool for at least 10 minutes before serving to avoid crumbling. Cut the oatmeal into 8-10 large squares and enjoy! Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3-5 days in an airtight container or frozen in individual servings and warmed the in the toaster oven (recommended) or microwave for a quick and easy breakfast! *Individual oven times may vary
Alyssa Lavy, MS, RD, CDN, CPT is a registered dietitian, personal trainer and mom of 2. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from The George Washington University and her Master of Science in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology from Teachers College Columbia University, where she also completed her dietetic internship. She has been an ACSM certified personal trainer for over a decade. Alyssa is the owner of Alyssa Lavy Nutrition & Wellness, a wellness brand offering nutrition communications, program development and consulting services for individuals and corporations.
Website: alyssalavy.com Instagram: @alyssalavyrd
THE STYLE LIST BY @STYLEELYST
A LOVE AFFAIR WITH STYLE: YOUR VALENTINE'S DAY EDIT
Valentine's Day is the perfect occasion to indulge your loved one. Elevate your gift-giving this year with exquisite and timeless pieces that celebrate her unique style. From luxurious jewelry to chic accessories, my curated gift guide has something for every sophisticated woman.
RHONE | PERFORMANCE LIFESTYLE BRAND CHAMPIONING MENTAL FITNESS
Featuring the Alpine Jacket Stretch Microfleece in Black, $178, Revive Flare Legging in Black, $118, Revive Longline Bra in Black, $58 and the Everyday Hat in Black , $32. Give the gift of feeling good. Rhone’s performance apparel helps you look and feel your best, every day.
rhone.com | @rhone | Local store in Westport, CT
WITH CLARITY | BORN IN NYC. ELEVATE YOUR EVERYDAY.
Featuring the Baguette Diamond East-West Eternity Ring 1¼ in 18K Yellow Gold, $1,870. A bold statement piece for the modern woman. This ring exudes effortless cool and refined elegance. A piece she will treasure forever.
withclarity.com | @withclarityofficial
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
TOTEME
Featuring the 55MM Crocodile-Embossed Leather Slingback Pumps, $740. These sleek, crocodile-embossed kitten heels are the epitome of understated luxury. Perfect for the woman who appreciates both style and comfort, they’re a Valentine’s Day gift that will elevate any outfit, from a casual day to a romantic evening. toteme.com or saksfiftheavenue.com | @toteme @saks | Shop local at Saks Fifth Avenue in Greenwich, CT
ARTICLE BY ASHLEY CANNON
ASHLEY CANNON & BRAND IMAGERY
EXQUISITE
HERMÉS | CONTEMPORARY ARTISAN SINCE 1837
Featuring the Farandole Pendant, Small Model in 18K Rose Gold, $2,225. As a creation of the renowned luxury house, the Farandole carries the prestige and craftsmanship associated with the Hermès name. It’s a symbol of luxury and sophistication that makes the perfect gift to give and receive.
hermes.com | @hermes | Local store in Greenwich, CT
L'AGENCE | CALIFORNIA LIFESTYLE, WITH A FRENCH ATTITUDE
Featuring the L’AGENCE Una Tweed Knit Cardigan, $550. A cozy, elevated knit is the ultimate comfort-luxe gift. Perfect for those days exploring or crisp nights, it’s a warm gesture that she can wear a multitude of ways. lagence.com | @lagencefashion
MONARCH MARKET | CURATED FASHION JEWELRY DESTINATION OF FINE & COSTUME JEWELRY
Featuring the Multi-Stone Square Engraved Love Band in 14K Yellow Gold, $1,990. A bold and contemporary statement, this Love Band offers four distinct looks. Its multifaceted design, featuring ombre sapphires, engraved “LOVE,” round diamonds, and baguette blue sapphires, allows for endless styling possibilities, whether worn solo or stacked.
shopmonarchmarket.com | @shopmonarchmarket
Local Store in Westport, CT
FORLANYA JEWELRY
Featuring the Build Your Personalized Oval Link
Necklace Charm Bar: Connector Charms - 15mm Classic Carabiner, Charm - Diamond Circle, Charm - Pearl Diamond Heart, Charm - White Wrapped Stone, Charm - Garnet, January, Meaningful Symbol Charms - Wishbone, Evangelica Coin Charm Selections - Faceted Smokey Quartz , $207.
A personalized charm necklace is the epitome of thoughtful gifting. Each charm, a unique symbol of love and memory, transforms this piece of jewelry into a cherished keepsake that can be worn and treasured for years to come.
forlanyajewelry.com | @forlanyajewelry | Local & Woman Owned/Designed
DORSEY | FINE JEWELRY CRAFTSMANSHIP, LAB GEMSTONES AND DIAMONDS
Featuring the Kate Round Cut, 3.75mm Lab White Sapphire Silver Riviere Necklace, 15 Inches, $615. A tennis necklace isn’t just a piece of jewelry; it’s a statement. Its sleek design and enduring brilliance make it the perfect gift. Unlike fleeting trends, it’s a classic, versatile accessory that effortlessly elevates any outfit, from casual to couture.
shopdorsey.com | @dorseyofficial
To see my fashion, beauty and lifestyle selects on the daily, be sure to head to styleelyst. com and follow me on social @styleelyst | Keep your eyes peeled for The Style List in the 2025 issues of Greenwich Lifestyle Magazine, Darien New Canaan Lifestyle Magazine and Upper Westchester Lifestyle Magazine. In addition to being a style columnist, Ashley Cannon is a fashion/lifestyle influencer (@styleelyst/styleelyst.com), mother and marketing specialist. She resides in Fairfield County, CT with her husband, daughter and yellow lab.
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TERESA ALASIO MD Owner & Medical Director
CATCHING UP WITH
Anna Kaiser
Photo by Brook Road Photography
Photo by Brook Road Photography
Fitness icon, entrepreneur, and founder of Anna Kaiser Studios, Anna Kaiser is deepening her Fairfield County roots beyond her studio in New Canaan with an exciting new collaboration with Green & Tonic. Known for revolutionizing boutique fitness with her dynamic, dance-inspired workout method, Kaiser is a celebrity trainer who has worked with Shakira, Karlie Kloss, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kelly Ripa and more. She has built a brand that blends fitness, wellness, and empowerment and is a sought-after speaker and collaborator. With her vibrant personality and dedication to holistic health, Kaiser continues to inspire people to move, connect, and thrive. Blending her passion for wellness and nutrition, Kaiser has teamed up with Green & Tonic to launch the Anna Kaiser Blue Moves Smoothie – now available at all Green & Tonic locations.
We had a chance to speak with Anna about how she continues to inspire healthy living, and how she balances motherhood and her successful career.
DNCL: YOU WENT FROM DANCE/ CHOREOGRAPHY TO THE FITNESS INDUSTRY. HOW DID YOU MAKE THE TRANSITION?
AK: I had just spent six weeks creating material for Shakira for her ‘She Wolf’ video. I was in L.A. on set with her, and I had been in hair and makeup for 12 hours. I looked around and I said I have done everything that I want to do as a professional dancer. I had performed across the world, broadway, TV, film, and had just wrapped being a principal dancer in Disney’s “Enchanted.” It was time for me to move on, and I wanted to take everything that I've learned over the last 15 years of my life and use it to inspire others. That was in 2009. By 2013 I opened my first boutique fitness studio that was sold in 2018 to create the international franchise concept, AKT.
DNCL: WHO HAS BEEN YOUR FAVORITE CELEBRITY TO TRAIN?
AK: Definitely Kelly Ripa. She always shows up, performs at 150%, and has taught me so much about owning your strength (especially as a woman), never taking “no” for an answer, balancing life as a working mom, and she always keeps me laughing. She is the smartest and strongest human I have ever met and she continues to inspire me every time we’re together.
Photo by Duke Loren
Photo by Brook Road Photography
DNCL: WHY DO YOU THINK PEOPLE LOVE ANNA KAISER STUDIOS SO MUCH?
AK: The energy. I’ll never forget when I sat down for an interview with Sarah Jessica Parker a couple years back to dive into the why of my workouts. SJ made it very clear that it was all about the energy. It’s not often people are looking forward to their workouts let alone actually enjoying them and staying dedicated to that workout for years. It becomes addicting to chase that feeling, learn dances, and challenge both your body and mind to the max. All of my clients were with me for many years: Alicia Keys (8yrs), Shakira (12yrs), Kelly Ripa (14yrs), SJP (6yrs), and my studio clients over 11 years!
DNCL: CAN YOU SHARE ANY NEWS OR HAPPENINGS FROM ANNA KAISER STUDIOS?
AK: I am BEYOND excited to launch my NEW app for all things wellness, Space With Anna Kaiser, for women everywhere and anywhere across the world. This platform takes all the work I have done in the last 25+ years training celebrities, moms, and CEO’s, and puts it all into one convenient place. From workouts, to guided stretches, podcast episodes, and healthy recipes- the goal was to create a space for women to dive deeper into their wellness journey and get access to my content on demand at any time with the tap of a finger. You can join the platform for FREE with our one week free trial, available automatically at sign up!
Photo by Duke Loren
Photo by Brook Road Photography
Photo by Brook Road Photography
“With her vibrant personality and dedication to holistic health, Kaiser continues to inspire people to move, connect, and thrive. ”
DNCL: CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR COLLABORATION WITH GREEN & TONIC?
AK: G&T is the leader in healthy living in Fairfield + Westchester Counties and I’m a longtime fan of theirs, especially given my first studio actually opened in New Canaan! They make it easy for me to eat well, especially when I’m on the go, which is everything as a busy mom and entrepreneur. We thought it would be fun to collaborate and create a signature Anna Kaiser smoothie that was inspired by my go-to morning smoothie. It’s full of superfoods and packed with protein – oh, and it’s delicious!
DNCL: WHAT’S IN THE BLUE MOVES SMOOTHIE?
AK: Coconut milk, cashew butter, banana, pineapple, plant-based vanilla protein powder (perfect amount to have before or after a workout), blue spirulina (for added amino acids and minerals) and a drizzle of coconut cream to make it dreamy!
DNCL: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE ITEM FROM GREEN & TONIC?
AK: I like to customize my own salad from their new salad bar – love that they’ve added pastured eggs and organic chicken for extra protein options!
Photo by Brook Road Photography
ARTICLE BY MEGAN SCHINELLA
local experiences
THE BEST PLACES TO GO AND THINGS TO DO IN OUR AREA
From restaurants, shops, artists and more, show your love and support to our city’s creatives and visionaries. Enjoy these local establishments that you’re sure to fall for while giving back to our city’s economy simultaneously.
1. Dine at the new Waveny Polo Bar & Grill, featuring new American cuisine, including small plates, salads, steaks, chops, fowl, burgers, seafood, great wine, craft cocktails and more. New Canaan, CT
2. Attend an event at Autostrada, home to a vibrant community that blends an exclusive social club with premium events, automobile management, and private events. Westport, CT.
3. Shop Knitted House, offering rugs and décor and various budget friendly options to reflect your lifestyle and personality. Stamford, CT.
4. Visit Carriage Barn Arts Center, a New Canaan Society for the Arts that promotes visual and performing arts, enriching the community through exhibitions. New Canaan, CT.
5. Pamper yourself at Wine N Cheese Day Spa with a full service Wine N Charcuterie bar featuring craft cocktails, wine, manicures, pedicures, facials, massage therapy, & hair removal. Fairfield, CT.
