Preserve - Fall/Winter 2021

GIFTED STYLE

Browse holiday picks in our resort boutiques

BEHIND THE SCENES

Meet Dant Hirsch of Ocean House Collection

CORPORATE CHIC

Company retreats get a curated touch

FUN FOR FOODIES

Guests create seasonal delights at the CWCA

INSPIRED DESIGN

The Preserve opens OH! Spa and Hilltop Lodge

Welcome to the Sporting Life

Outdoor Adventure Fa l l 2 0 2 1 / W i n t e r 2 0 2 2

527 Ministerial Road

South Kingstown $7,495,000 8 Bedrooms 4.2 Bathrooms 6,364 square feet 51.16 acres Erin Marsh | 401.225.4106

For those who demand an elevated service like none other, there’s Mott & Chace Sotheby’s International Realty. We’re the industry’s best agents curating with incomparable attention to style and detail.

JAMESTOWN HIG H EST 202 1 SALE JAMESTOWN

256 East Shore Road Nicole Carstensen

$6,970,000 401.633.5968

NEWPORT

$8,990,000 401.864.8830

115 Narragansett Avenue Kylie McCollough

Nothing Compares

mottandchace.com

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This information is based in whole or in part on data supplied by the State-Wide Multiple Listing Service. The MLS does not guarantee and is not in any way responsible for its accuracy. These properties may have been sold by other real estate companies.

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The Preserve ininthe The Preserve is ais a destination that families enjoy destination that families cancan enjoy now, and for future generations. now, and for future generations.

With more than 3,500 acres, With more than 3,500 acres, thisstunning stunning setting allows families this setting allows families to put aside technology, and to put aside technology, and establish bonds with their loved establish bonds with their loved ones.And And we’re unveiling new ones. we’re unveiling new amenity erings every season— amenity offoff erings every season— likeour ournew newPreserve PreserveEquestrian EquestrianTraining Training Stables (PETS), like Stables (PETS), luxuriousOH! OH!Spa Spaand andunforgettable unforgettable experiential dining. luxurious experiential dining.

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Whether you join us for a leisure stay, as a member happen. Whether you join us for a leisure stay, as a member orora ahomeowner, part ofof thethe Preserve homeowner,wewethank thankyou youforforbeing being part Preserve family. family.

87 Kingstown Road, Richmond, Rhode Island 02898 87 Kingstown Road, Richmond, Rhode Island 02898

PRESERVESPORTINGCLUB.COM 855.691.6364 401.539.4653 ext. 5 PRESERVESPORTINGCLUB.COM 855.691.6364 401.539.4653 ext. 5 Memberships l Residences l Leisure Stays l Meetings & Events Memberships l Residences l Leisure Stays l Meetings & Events

3 Championship Golf Courses : Renowned Golf Club : Tennis & Pickleball : Squash : Croquet

Bob Gibb, Broker : Judy Bramson : Jeannette Mahaney : Ba Stone : Michael Merrill : Kristen Yoshitani : Susie Perticone : Rennie Gibb 111 Stingaree Point : Offered at $14,000,000 : 111Stingaree.com

e x c l u s i v e ly j o h n ’ s i s l a n d . i t ’ s y o u r l i f e t i m e . s p e n d i t w i s e ly .

Clear Skies. Blue Water. Smooth Sailing.

World Class Dining : Ver tical Membership : Oceanfront Beach Club : Miles Of Private Beaches

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magical forty private acres off newport’s famed ocean drive

888.466.1355 | castlehillinn.com

We’ll bring you here.

Just like you, we do things differently.

We’ve streamlined the property purchase, planning, and building process to realize your vision, which means you get your lifestyle, by design.

Scan below to live differently.

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redesigncollective.com/exclusive

LOCAL & EFFECTIVE REAL ESTATE AGENT LICENSED IN CONNECTICUT AND RHODE ISLAND

THE BEST OF FALL & WINTER- local guide Take a ride to Stonington Borough and park on Wadawanuck Square. Stroll down Water Street to the historic lighthouse and Stonington point. A b s o r b the village architecture, landscape, and curated antique stores. Make sure to stop into one of the restaurants for a glass of wine and bite to eat or consider visiting one of the nearby wine vineyards for a tasting. Mark your calender for the annual Holiday Stroll.

Take a scenic drive down North Main Street on your way out.

Check out Downtown Mystic and take a walk across the historic drawbridge and stroll the various shops - BURGEE Mystic being a personal favorite. Walk down Gravel Street to view the historic sea captain homes and take a drive down River Road to Old Mystic to Clyde’s Cider Mill. Visit the Mystic Seaport for a holiday Lantern Light Tour.

Head to Noank Village and stop by Carsons for a coffee. Wander the tree lined quiet streets of federal style homes and antique cottages. A true New England sailing village.

JONATHAN SHOCKLEY REALTOR

specializing in

MYSTIC & STONINGTON CONNECTICUT

From City to Coast, I help locals and newcomers navigate the local real estate market in Southeastern Connecticut and Rhode Island. Whether buying a primary residence, vacation home, or investment property, I help navigate the process, promote technology, and connect buyers and sellers with the right players to close the deal. Having grown up in the community and now living here with my family, I truly understand the many neighborhoods and waterfront communities that make this place so special. From GLP and Noank, to Mystic and Masons Island, to Stonington and the Borough, Westerly and Avondale, I will help guide the way.

JONATHAN SHOCKLEY REALTOR

CALL or TEXT: 860.917.6016 EMAIL: jonathan@switzre.com

9 Masons Island Road, Mystic, CT 06355 860.572.9501 Broker License # REB.0757584

AWARD WINNING WINES ON THE CONNECTICUT SHORELINE

Saltwater Farm Vineyard S T ON I N GT ON C T

SaltwaterFarmVineyard.com | 860-608-2528

E x e c u t i v e R e t r e at s “Most Luxurious Hotels in The United States for CEOs” CEOWORLD Magazine

winvianfarm.com

FALL 2021/WINTER 2022

CONTENTS

Ocean House • Weekapaug Inn • Watch Hill Inn • Preserve Sporting Club & Residences • Inn at Hastings Park 18 Welcome Letter

64

20 Social Network

76

Take a look back at special events and memorable moments from last season.

60 Corporate Chic Company retreats get a curated touch at Ocean House and Weekapaug Inn. b y Ki m Ka v i n

64 Classes for Foodies

27 Insider

Guests can create holiday delights at the Center for Wine & Culinary Arts. b y E l i z a b e t h Ke y s e r

Our employees share past travel experiences and trips on the horizon.

by Elizabeth Hole

68 Seaside Magic

32 Treasure Hunt

The Morgan Suite feels like a whimsical and luxurious yacht—without setting sail.

by Judy Ostrow

Browse our holiday picks in the resort boutiques.

35 New Developments

72 Inspired Design

Meet the Executive Chef and General Manager at Weekapaug Inn.

Nature meets nurture at the Preserve’s Hilltop Lodge and OH! Spa.

by Owen McDonald

36 Journeys

35

Discover three spectacular Relais & Châteaux getaways. b y Ki m Ka v i n

72

76 Culinary Destination The Inn at Hastings Park offers food and wine experiences throughout fall and winter. b y E l i z a b e t h Ke y s e r

41 Local Guide Explore the possibilities nearby for sightseeing, shopping, dining and entertainment.

by Elizabeth Hole

78 Winter Wedding Two couples create events that are small and spectacular. b y Ki m Ka v i n

54 Behind the Scenes

82 The Fall & Winter Annual

Introducing Dant Hirsch, the new leader with hospitality in his DNA.

by Judy Ostrow

Make the most of your visit with our full calendar of offerings and events.

58 Making an Impact Ocean House Fund for Charitable Giving supports community causes.

by Judy Ostrow

92 End Quote

Top Row Ocean House: Executive Pastry Chef Donna Yuen teaches holiday baking classes. Inn at Hastings Park: Innkeeper Trisha Pérez Kennealy runs Culinary Weekends. Bottom Row Weekapaug Inn: Executive Chef Andrew Brooks uses herbs from the Inn's garden. Preserve Sporting Club & Residences: Chairman Paul Mihailides explores the sprawling 3,600-acre property.

OCEAN HOUSE & WEEKAPAUG INN cover photography by CHIP RIEGEL

16 OHMCOLLECTION.COM

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PRESERVE SPORTING CLUB & RESIDENCES cover photography CONTRIBUTED

WELCOME

photography by CHIP RIEGEL

Celebrate the Season With a new leader, Ocean House Collection brings new experiences and continued excellence to the world of hospitality Dear Friends, I was delighted to join the Ocean House Collection this June, just as the sun-soaked summer high season commenced on the New England coast. I appreciate all who chose us for their summer vacations, and I thank our world-class team of hospitality professionals for their endless hard work and dedication. These are teams that I’m honored to lead, and I have enjoyed meeting all our guests— both returning and first-time visitors—and look forward to personally welcoming you to one of our properties soon.

Now we begin a fresh new season, where New England comes alive with color and the festive season is just around the corner. In this issue we explore the magical culinary experiences offered at Ocean House each December, with a special focus on the Center for Wine & Culinary Arts and our talented team of chefs and wine experts. There’s nothing like the holidays at Ocean House, and I know you’ll enjoy a special inside look—and Chef Donna’s gingerbread cookie recipe—found in this edition.

As the world opens up more and more, business travel is primed for an exciting return, and in these pages, we explore the experiences that await at both our Forbes Five-Star properties. Ocean House and Weekapaug Inn create unparalleled experiences for group events and retreats, offering not only exquisite accommodations and impressive event spaces, but a dedication to unique opportunities for clients, from bespoke dining experiences to custom activities that groups won’t find anywhere else.

In addition, we look at the ever-inspiring culinary pleasures that Inn at Hastings Park owner Trisha Pérez Kennealy and her team bring to guests visiting charming Lexington, Massachusetts, just outside Boston, and at the world of outdoor adventure that awaits at the 3,500-acre Preserve Sporting Club & Residences, located just minutes from Ocean House and Weekapaug Inn in Richmond, Rhode Island.

principals Ocean House Hotel Partners

president + managing director Dant Hirsch

group publisher/sales director Karen Kelly-Micka

editorial director Ben Tomek

editor Elizabeth Hole

senior art director Garvin Burke

production director Tim Carr

assistant art director Lisa Marie Servidio

contributing writers Kim Kavin Elizabeth Keyser Owen McDonald Judy Ostrow

contributing photographers Tom Curry, Chip Riegel, Jenna Skutnik, Reinhard Sokol

Please enjoy these stories and more in our latest issue. I wish you a safe fall and happy holiday season, and we hope your plans bring you to one of our properties in the months ahead.

president Jonathan W. Moffly

chief revenue officer Andrew Amill

vice president/business Elena V. Moffly

group publisher/sales director Dant Hirsch President & Managing Director, Ocean House Collection

To book reservations for our properties: OCEAN HOUSE: 855-678-0364; oceanhouseri.com; 1 Bluff Avenue, Watch Hill, RI 02891 WEEKAPAUG INN: 855-679-2995, weekapauginn.com; 25 Spray Rock Road, Westerly, RI 02891 INN AT HASTINGS PARK: 781-301-6660; innathastingspark.com; 2027 Massachusetts Avenue, Lexington, MA 02421 PRESERVE SPORTING CLUB & RESIDENCES: 844-451-5913; preservesportingclub.com; 87 Kingstown Road, Richmond, RI 02898

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OHMCOLLECTION.COM

Karen Kelly-Micka © 2021 Ocean House, Weekapaug Inn and Preserve Sporting Club & Residences magazines are published

by Moffly Custom Media. all rights reserved. The material in this publication may not be reproduced in any manner, in whole or in part, without the express written permission of Moffly Custom Media. Editorial suggestions may be forwarded to the publisher, who assumes no liability for the safety or return of unsolicited art, photographs or manuscripts. To renew or change your address, please email us at communications@oceanhouseri.com moffly custom media 205 Main Street, Westport, CT 06880 telephone: 203-222-0600 fax: 203-222-0937 email: mail@MofflyCustomMedia.com

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Emai lI nqui r y : Pr i v a t e Cl i e nt @S t ar s he p . com

Broadview Florist and Garden Center is a multi-generational family owned business. We provide the highest quality floral arrangements and decor for many of the areas most discerning clients.

( 4 0 1 ) 3 2 2 - 0 3 9 0 WWW.BROADVIEWGARDENCENTER.COM EXCLUSIVE FLORIST FOR THE OCEAN HOUSE & WEEKAPAUG INN

by ELIZABETH HOLE

THE WAY I TRAVEL

portraits by CHIP RIEGEL

INSIDER

Travelers are excited to make plans again. Here our employees share past travel experiences and trips on the horizon.

PHOTOGRAPHY: LAND CRUISER BY CHIP RIEGEL; CR OATIA © ANDREW MAYOVSKYY - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; MAUI © PETE LECLER C STOCK.ADOBE.COM; GOLF B ALL © PRZEMYSLAW KOCH STOCK.ADOBE.COM; AIRPODS © EREMIN - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

Left:

Croatia is on the travel bucket list.

Below:

The Inn's 1967 Land Cruiser is popular with guests.

Teddy Beahm

Naturalist and Director of Recreation, Weekapaug Inn The next place I want to visit is…

Maui What was the biggest change moving from Hawaii to Rhode Island?

I can’t golf in the winter.

Are there any trips you had to cancel that you are rescheduling?

Covid moved around my wedding, so we are postponing the honeymoon trip to Turks and Caicos until early 2022.

During the travel restrictions, what did you miss most about traveling?

The memories made along the way.

What do you do on vacation?

Try and keep up with my son, Theo, who is almost two— and golf!

What are your three must-have travel items?

My wife Lexi (there’s no better travel partner), and comfortable shoes like flip-flops or my black and white Adidas Ultraboosts.

Finish this sentence: A sensational travel experience always includes…

Getting lost.

Where’s your hometown and the best thing to see there?

Newport, RI. It has some of the most beautiful boats in the world!

How do you like working in your home state?

Being from Rhode Island, I heard very little about Weekapaug. Now, spending the last year here, I can’t imagine myself anywhere else in the world. This corner of paradise never stops impressing me with the natural beauty.

Favorite Relais & Châteaux property?

It may be a biased opinion, but I love Weekapaug Inn and Hotel Wailea, where I used to work.

What destination is on your travel bucket list?

I want to go back to Croatia and golf overseas.

Tell us about your job as Naturalist. What should guests try this fall or winter?

Where do I begin? My job is to connect our guests to our natural surroundings. The addition of the 1967 Land Cruiser has been wildly popular. Guests are eagerly

Right:

Before moving to Rhode Island, Beahm worked in Maui.

Below:

Golf is a key activity for vacations.

Right:

AirPods are a top travel essential.

OHMCOLLECTION.COM

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THE WAY I TRAVEL

Left:

Above:

Simone hopes to visit Monaco soon.

Left:

Marie Simone

Interior Designer, Preserve Sporting Club & Residences Tell us about your role at the Preserve.

I’m the interior designer responsible for all finish selections and furnishings.

The next place I want to visit is…

Monaco.

During the travel restrictions, what did you miss most about traveling?

I missed exploration and adventure.

Are there any trips you had to cancel that you are rescheduling?

Many trade shows that open my eyes to new ideas.

28

How do you pick your vacation spots?

I look for destinations offering luxury, history and relaxation.

What are your three must-have travel items?

My travel essentials are comfortable shoes, my favorite hand cream and moisturizer.

Any special music you listen to while traveling?

I try to put together a play list to coincide with the place I’m vacationing.

Finish this sentence: A sensational travel experience always

OHMCOLLECTION.COM

Italy is a favorite vacation spot.

includes…

Amazing food and drink.

Top destinations for wonderful food and wine?

I like Italy and the French Riviera.

Who’s your perfect travel companion?

My honey, Frank.

Most interesting place you’ve discovered by chance?

A small factory in Èze, France, which creates objects of olive wood from trees on the property.

Favorite Relais & Châteaux property?

Ocean House is my favorite! I would also love to visit Hôtel de la Cigogne in Geneva.

What destination is on your travel bucket list?

Campobasso, Italy, is on my list. My ancestors are from there.

Above:

Enjoying wine in the French Riviera is a highlight.

Right:

Ocean House is Simone's preferred Relais & Châteaux property.

PHOTOGRAPHY: MONACO © SYLVAIN S ONNET; PASTAS © FELINDA - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; VENICE © GIVAGA - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; C O R K S © O K S A N A T K A C H U K- S T O C K . A D O B E . C O M ; O C E A N H O U S E BY C H I P R I E G E L

When traveling, Italian cuisine is an important focus.

Sail Trim Again Capt. Jack’s 2 Hr, 1/2 & Full Day Sails Sailing Instruction Romantic Champagne Sunset Cruises

Locally owned and operated For reservations call, text, or book online.

Capt. Jack - 860.227.2339 www.sail-trim-again.com

THE WAY I TRAVEL

Right:

A trip to Miami is in the works.

Below:

Mark Szaro

Guest Ambassador for Club Room, Ocean House The next place I want to visit is…

Sorrento and Positano, Italy.

The wine and food there are amazing!

During the travel restrictions, what did you miss most about traveling?

Not being able to return to the Amalfi Coast in Italy last fall.

Above:

For his drive from Miami to Key West, Szaro will rent a convertible.

Right:

The Amalfi Coast is Szaro’s pick for food and wine.

Are there any trips you had to cancel that you are rescheduling?

Yes, traveling to South Beach in Miami and then renting a convertible to make the drive down A1A to Key West.

Left:

Szaro favors a tropical beach for winter getaways.

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Tell us about your job as Guest Ambassador of the Club Room.

I am blessed to be able to share with guests all the wonderful things the hotel and our little piece of heaven have to offer. Sunrise walks on East Beach, taking a stroll

to the Watch Hill Lighthouse or enjoying a magical sunset over the harbor with a glass of wine—just to name a few.

Finish this sentence: A sensational travel experience always includes…

A great sunset, local history, a little wine and my wife Lisa.

How do you pick your vacation spots?

I hate to be cold and never have time to enjoy the beach here in the summer, so I’m always ready when winter comes to find a quiet and sandy tropical beach!

Most interesting place you’ve discovered by chance?

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a walled German town in northern Bavaria known for

its medieval architecture. It’s absolutely beautiful.

What are your three must-have travel items?

My Surface tablet, cell phone and my wife and soulmate, Lisa.

Any special music you listen to while traveling?

I like The Rat Pack, Roomful of Blues and Jimmy Buffet Radio on Pandora.

What destination is on your travel bucket list?

Chartering a 50-foot catamaran from the Moorings in Tortola and sailing the British Virgin Islands with friends.

Best part about your job?

I feel very fortunate to be here at the Ocean House. I get to spend much of my day overseeing the Club Room and enjoying an incredible view of Block Island Sound.

I started working in Watch Hill in May of 1980 and just finished my 41st summer in town. I hope to enjoy a few more!

PHOTOGRAPHY: S OUTH BEACH © SEAN PAVONE 2017; CAR © KONSTANTINOS MORAITI - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; AMALFI COAST © FRANCESCO RICCARDO IACOMINO - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; PALM TREE © PRIN - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

Music by The Rat Pack is on the travel playlist.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL J. LEE

Boston-Newport JEANNERACIOPPIDESIGNS.COM

SOCIAL NETWORK

OCEAN HOUSE COLLECTION PROPERTIES host spectacular events and seasonal celebrations

OCEAN HOUSE #memorable moments f rom the past season

Bring on the Bubbles

Champagne and crêpes are on the menu at the Veuve Clicquot Secret Garden.

Dazzling Display

With the Atlantic as a backdrop, fireworks light up the sky on Fourth of July.

For the latest offerings and upcoming events // follow us on

20

OHMCOLLECTION.COM

The Big Day

Summer isn’t complete without romantic beachside weddings and other unforgettable celebrations.

Beachside Bliss

It’s always Happy Hour on the expansive private beach at Ocean House.

and

: @oceanhouseri

WEDDING PHOTO COURTESY OF @ALLIEDEARIE

Croquet Anyone?

The championship croquet lawn has an on-site pro to provide guidance for this family-friendly sport.

CHÂTEAU D’ESCLANS EN PROVENCE Château d’Esclans is located on an exceptional site, on elevated land near the Gorges de Pennafort, twenty five kilometers northwest of the ancient Roman city of Frejus on the Mediterranean Coast.

4005 route de Callas, 83920 La Motte en Provence, France

TOURS AND TASTINGS BY REQUEST +33 (0) 494-604-040 | esclans.com

Wine, © 2021 Moët Hennessy USA, Inc., New York, NY

SOCIAL NETWORK

WEEKAPAUG INN #festive events by land and by sea

Dive In

Clam Digger

Captain Teddy, the Inn’s Naturalist, provides clamming instruction.

With pond views and a sun deck, the Inn’s swimming pool is a relaxing retreat.

OHMCOLLECTION.COM

Blue Lagoon

Quonochontaug Pond is the perfect setting for kayaking and paddle sports.

For the latest offerings and upcoming events // follow us on

22

Wedded Bliss

A bride and groom share a quiet moment before their wedding reception.

and

: @weekapauginn

PHOTOGRAPHY: WEDDING @SERVIDONESTUDIOS

Independence Day

Guests take part in the festivities at the annual Fourth of July lobster boil.

SOCIAL NETWORK

PRESERVE SPORTING CLUB & RESIDENCES #adventures for nature lovers

Horsing Around

Hilltop Lodge

The new equestrian center features outdoor training areas and an indoor arena.

Zip Away

Adventurous groups love to do teambuilding exercises on the zipline course.

Perched above the property’s woodland oasis, the Hilltop Lodge offers luxury condo-style suites.

Making Waves

For the latest offerings and upcoming events // follow us on

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OHMCOLLECTION.COM

Cigars and Scotch

After guests have a full day of activities, the Preserve pool is a popular spot to unwind.

Cohiba Cigars ambassador Sean Williams in the Safari Tent Scotch & Cigar Tasting Experience.

and

: @preservesportingclub

Travel is Back, but it’s More Complicated Than Ever.

Let the experts at Master Travel handle all the details of your vacation so you can enjoy your next getaway to its fullest. The level of service we offer goes well beyond the status quo: •We take the time to listen to your interests and preferences.

•Our advisors curate personal itineraries and long term client relationships.

•We offer our clients exclusive amenities, upgrades, experiences, and access far beyond anything you could “Google” on your own through our Preferred Partnerships.

Master Travel saves you time and frustration while quieting the noise of the internet.

Sit back, relax, we will take care of the details!

Curating your next travel adventure -Master Travel

Contact Master Travel at 203-716-1701 or michelle@mastertravel.org

TREASURE HUNT

photography by CHIP RIEGEL

Signature Scent

The "Bright You Are" fragrance freshens up Ocean House rooms.

Hyascent Diffuser,

Children's Classic

Read about Mortimer Mouse and his Ocean House adventures.

Written and illustrated by Ardith M. Schneider, $35 for mouse toy set. Book sold separately, $25.

Page Turners

Prepare for plot twists in these must-read psychological thrillers.

By Deborah Goodrich Royce, $27 each.

Gifted Style Trim the Tree

The OH monogram ornament has a nautical twist, $25.

Puzzle Art

Remember your visit with a souvenir 252-piece puzzle. Art

by Bob Callahan, $40.

Gift Card

OHM Collection gift cards available at the denomination of your choice.

Custom Coffee

Signature Weekapaug Inn blend from Dave’s Coffee, $15.

Candle Light

Hand-poured soy candle comes in Honeysuckle, Coconut Lime and Lemongrass Sage, $21.99.

32 OHMCOLLECTION.COM

PHOTOGRAPHY: CANDLES AND DIFFUSER PR OVIDED BY BRANDS

Shop our holiday picks in the resort boutiques

When t he answer me ans t he world.

2 3 9 G R E E N W IC H AV E N U E

|

G R E E N W IC H

b etter idge.c om

|

203.869.0124

Exhibit ing except ional paint ings and sculpt ure at our Bay St reet galle r y, Ocean House and Milwaukee,W I.

the resident gallery at ocean house

1 bay street

•

w a t c h h i l l ( 4 0 1 ) 5 5 9 - 2 9 8 8 l i l y p a d g a l l e r y. c o m

NEW DEVELOPMENTS

photography by CHIP RIEGEL

Weekapaug Inn's NEW faces

Meet the Chef & GM

PHOTOGRAPHY: CHEF ANDREW BY CHIP RIEGEL; WEDDING BY LMS IMAGES; GREECE PHOTO CONTRIBUTED; GOTHENBURG ©ANDERM - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

Andrew Brooks, Executive Chef

Conny Andersson, General Manager

For Chef Andrew, the former executive sous chef at Ocean House, being at Weekapaug Inn is like "coming full circle." In 2014 he worked in the Inn's kitchen, and in 2019, proposed to wife Erinn during a cruise on the Quonnie Queen. The chef is thrilled to "put my heart and soul into this property."

A Swedish native, Andersson has worked everywhere from New York and LA to Turkey and Malaysia. He spent two decades at the Four Seasons before working for Six Senses properties. As GM of the Inn, he plans to help "guest experiences continue in an already long tradition of exceeding expectations.”

Above: Chef Andrew Brooks says his "vegetable-forward menu stays true to the flavors of coastal New England. It's as farm-to-table as humanly possible!" Below: Brooks and wife Erinn at their wedding (left) and on the Quonnie Queen after getting

Above: Andersson's global experience helps him "understand the different demographics of guests and anticipate their needs.” Below: Andersson in Greece (left).

The former chef grew up in Gothenburg, Sweden (right), where his chef grandfather

OHMCOLLECTION.COM

35

by KIM KAVIN

JOURNEYS

Our staff loves to explore other Relais & Châteaux properties.

Consider these spectacular destinations for your next getaway.

TENNESSEE

DID YOU KNOW ?

Blackberry Farm, Walland The Great Smoky Mountains are a true biological gem, boasting the largest spread of oldgrowth forest east of the Mississippi River. Great Smoky Mountains National Park protects much of this land, which is home to more than 1,500 kinds of flowering plants and around 1,500 black bears. The bears can live 12 to 15 years, and some have been documented inside the park as weighing over 600 pounds.

It’s amid this wonderful wilderness that Blackberry Farm is perched in Walland, Tennessee. The farm dates back to the 1930s, when a couple looking to build their dream home bought a piece of the property. In 1976, a group of families acquired more land to add to that piece, and opened the space as a six-room inn. Then, in the 2000s, a new focus was placed on fine food, wine, the farmstead and local adventures.

Set against magnificent mountain views and wildlife diversity, Blackberry Farm welcomes great chefs and winemakers, award-winning musicians and authors, and professional athletes and adventurers—anyone seeking to combine first-rate culinary experiences with first-rate

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activities in nature.

The farm has its own butcher, cheesemaker and forager, as well as a preservationist who focuses on things like wild mushrooms and ramps. The Blackberry Farm Brewery uses locally grown ingredients to create spirits with flavors ranging from sour cherries to persimmons.

Guests can join the master gardener for talks about saving seeds and more, or attend a cooking demonstration featuring local bounty.

There are countless opportunities to venture into the scenic landscape.

Blackberry Farm offers archery, carriage rides, cycling, fly-fishing, hiking, paddle sports and more.

There’s a private paintball field, and customized games can be organized for families or groups. Nearby is the farm’s sporting clays course, which offers shooting sportsmen 14 stations in addition to skeet, trap, five-stand, double wobble and flurry.

For those who prefer some pampering, the on-site spa offers massages and more.

Yoga classes are available, and there are steam and tranquility rooms to help achieve the deepest levels of calmness and serenity.

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The Great Smoky Mountains are a subrange of the Appalachian Mountains. The highest point in the Smokies is Clingmans Dome, at 6,643 feet.

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Blackberry Farm encompasses 4,200 acres of land, and it has been welcoming guests to this part of Tennessee for more than 80 years.

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Above: The menu offers cheese produced at Blackberry Farm.

Center: Holly Glade Cottage Suites are casually elegant.

There’s a design team at Blackberry Farm with a catalog for items such as games and skillets that reflect the aesthetic.

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Guests can dine at the Boathouse on Walland Pond.

More than 60 species of mammals live in the Great Smoky Mountains, including the densest black bear population east of the Mississippi River.

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF BLACKBERRY FARM

DESTINATIONS

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St. Helena is practically synonymous with Napa Valley wines.

The St. Helena American Viticultural Area is home to 416 vineyards.

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Shopping in St. Helena is specialized, with boutiques that focus on everything from olive oil to chef’s knives to handcrafted chocolates.

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Meadowood is the preferred caterer for many of Napa Valley’s most distinctive wineries. They include Vineyard 7 & 8 and Quintessa.

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There are daily wine tastings at Meadowood. They typically feature one red and one white varietal each afternoon. Fridays showcase sparkling

CALIFORIt’s often said that new life grows from the ashes of any catastrophe. Nothing could be truer when it comes to the elegant Meadowood property in California’s famed Napa Valley.

In September 2020, a wildfire known as the Glass Fire started near Glass Mountain Road in Napa Valley. During the days that followed, this brush fire expanded and combined with other wildfires, eventually burning over 67,000 acres and destroying more than 1,500 structures. The devastation, unfortunately, included parts of the Meadowood property, some of which needed to be completely rebuilt.

Today, Meadowood is celebrating its ability not only to rebuild, but also to reopen, including bringing back its three-Michelinstar restaurant. A long-term temporary space is being created adjacent to the Meadowood property so the restaurant can operate until the entirety of the resort is reconstructed. Guests can expect to enjoy the same refined focus on seasonable, organic and sustainable ingredients for which Meadowood has long been renowned—so much so that Bon Appetit magazine named it the second-most important restaurant in the United States (while calling the chef’s creations “epic”).

In more good news, lower areas of the estate were largely unharmed. These areas

include Meadowood’s spa, fitness center, pools, tennis courts and many cottages.

Guests were able to use them after returning to the property earlier this year, with the southern part of the property reopening in due course this past summer.

Overall, the hotel began accepting reservations for arrivals starting August 1, welcoming guests back to the iconic experience for which Meadowood has long been known.

There also are some new experiences that Meadowood created following the fire and in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. For instance, while guests are welcome to use the newly renovated and re-equipped fitness center, they also have the option of joining the property’s Eco Fitness classes. Instructors use Meadowood’s hiking trails and grounds as “the gym,” tailoring each workout to the individual guest’s comfort level within the scenic beauty all around.

In a similar way, while the Meadowood Spa continues to be rebuilt, in-room spa menus are available. Guests can schedule aromatherapy, collagen eye treatments, face masks and more in the comfort and privacy of their own rooms.

Overall, in so many ways, the ambience today at Meadowood is centered on rejuvenation and rebirth as the property continues its much-anticipated comeback.

Top: The Restaurant at Meadowood uses the resort’s 3.5-acre culinary farm.

Above: Guests take in stunning Napa Valley vistas. Below: The Terrace Café serves lunch daily and weekend brunch. Bottom: Featuring indoor-outdoor living spaces, the Hill House is a spacious 1,745 square feet.

SIDEBAR PHOTOS BY MEADOWOOD

DID YOU KNOW ?

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DESTINATIONS

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC MuchRoc of what we know miso butter.

Yet another Eden Cap Cana, Punta Cana

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mood awaits at La Palapa, the resort’s waterfront eatery that combines Mediterranean and Caribbean flavors. Familystyle dishes include warm prawns, calamari fritters and plantain chips with guacamole, all for sharing around the table.

Calories? Not a problem, thanks to the extensive number of activities in and near the resort. The equestrian center offers all level of classes in riding and polo. Tennis enthusiasts are treated to green-clay courts. Eco-adventures can include ziplining, caving and heading off-road into the tropical forests. The marina at Cap Cana has boat rentals, deep-sea fishing and inshore fishing. Traditional water sports also abound, including water-skiing, sailing and kayaking.

And there’s no need to worry about getting too much sun; Eden Rock Wellness & Spa is ready to rejuvenate the skin and more. It has a dozen treatment rooms with indoor and outdoor cabins, aero yoga structures, a freshwater pool and a gymnasium. Relax in the Swedish sauna or under a rainfall shower, and grab a fruit juice or smoothie at the wellness bar to refresh every part of the soul.

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Punta Cana International Airport welcomes direct flights from the United States on major airlines and has a VIP terminal for private flights.

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Duffers can head to the Jack Nicklausdesigned Punta Espada, an 18-hole, par-72 championship golf course with fairways along the coastline.

Top: A striking infinity pool overlooks Eden Roc Beach. Above: Fresh seafood is plentiful on all the resort’s menus. Below: Beachfront suites have a separate living area and balcony or terrace. Bottom: Blue Bar + Grill serves a mix of continental and local specialties.

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Eden Roc Cap Cana has two resort areas: the inland Boutique Suite segment overlooking the garden, and the Eden Roc Beach Club.

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Families are encouraged to visit the resort’s Koko Kid’s Club, which is designed like a treehouse.

It has a mini-spa, video games and more.

RESORT PHOTOS BY EDEN ROC CAP CANA

today as Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic has been built since the 1970s.

Developers saw an opportunity, at the wild eastern end of the island, to create resorts that stood out as oases of luxury—not just along the mesmerizing aquamarine coastline, but within the whole of the Caribbean itself.

Eden Roc Cap Cana opened in 2012 as one of the most exclusive properties within this luxury zone. It has just 64 accommodations that range from villas with private pools to beachfront suites and ocean villas. The fourbedroom Imperiale Villa is the property’s jewel, with its own courtyard, gardens and waterfalls. A butler is on call 24 hours a day, and a personal chef is available to prepare all meals.

That is, of course, just one option, what with the property’s multifaceted restaurants and bars available too.

Mediterraneo has a domed brick roof and an elegant menu that can include homemade cured salmon, and caviar on lobster. The Blue Bar + Grill is built with a show kitchen where guests can watch preparation of the signature dishes, including pork belly with potato cream, and grilled spiny lobster with

DID YOU KNOW ?

Kathleen Jacobs, SOARS, Oil on linen, 72 x 76 inches

www.heathergaudiofineart.com 203.801.9590 66 Elm Street, New Canaan, CT 06840

®

by ELIZABETH HOLE

TRAVELER

There are many sights to see near our resorts and in surrounding towns.

Explore the possibilities for shopping, dining, entertainment and more.

390 Summit Rd., Exeter, RI; tomaquagmuseum.org

babcocksmithhouse.org

Mashantucket Pequot Museum

Celebrating the Mashantucket Pequot tribe and its history, this museum and research center features 85,000 square feet of exhibitions, dioramas and films. 110 Pequot Trail, Mashantucket, CT; pequotmuseum.org

Mystic Museum of Art

Above: Shop at OMO Jewels for clothing, accessories and gifts, and admire art on the gallery side at Avondale

CULTURE & HISTORY Historic Destinations

PHOTOGRAPHY: CONTRIBUTED

Benefit Street’s “Mile of History” Lined with preserved colonial homes and museums, Benefit Street is perfect for history buffs and day trippers seeking out “the most haunted street in Rhode Island.” Book a guided walking tour or pick from self-guided options.

Benefit St., Providence, RI; visitrhodeisland.com

Newport Mansions Experience the extravagance of the Gilded Age. From the chateau-inspired Elms mansion to the Vanderbilt’s

“summer cottage,” there is no shortage of opulent architecture. For an updated list of mansions offering tours, visit the website. Newport, RI; newportmansions.org

Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge One of five wildlife refuges in the state, this 858-acre property has more than 250 species of birds and a diverse landscape. Take a scenic hike among the grasslands, swamps and the largest coastal salt pond in Rhode Island. 50 Bend Rd., Charlestown, RI; fws.gov

Wickford Village Step back in time while visiting this charming seaside gem. One of the nation’s oldest preserved

colonial villages, Wickford is a walking history lesson.

There are plenty of modern shops and restaurants too.

In December, the village hosts a Festival of Lights celebration. 55 Brown St., North Kingstown, RI; histwick.org

Museums Babcock-Smith Museum This 18th-century Georgian mansion was occupied by several generations until it became a museum in 1972.

Built in 1734, it showcases both Colonial and Victorian periods. The museum hosts a festive holiday boutique each December. 124 Granite St., Westerly, RI;

LOCAL GUIDE

Watch Hill Lighthouse & Museum Accessible only by foot, visitors can enjoy a beautiful walk to this historic lighthouse built in the 1800s. The museum is open just for the summer months, but there’s plenty to see and do in the off-season. 14 Lighthouse Rd., Westerly, RI;

A Mystic institution, the museum has a mission to “deliver transformative experiences with art to a broader community.” In addition to curated exhibits, visitors can admire the work of painters from Mystic’s former artist colony as well as scenic river views from the Water Street location.

9 Water St., Mystic, CT; mysticmuseumofart.org

Mystic Seaport Museum Learn about maritime history at this seafaring museum, and then do some stargazing at the planetarium. Set on 19 acres along the Mystic River, it has over 500 historic vessels in its collection. 75 Greenmanville Ave. Mystic, CT; mysticseaport.org

Tomaquag Indian Museum Sharing the culture of tribal communities from Southern New England, this museum displays indigenous artifacts and offers educational services and events. Plans are underway to open a new museum in 2023 on 18 acres of land owned by the University of Rhode Island.

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LOCAL GUIDE

Above: Signature burger from The Brasserie at Weekapaug Inn

PHOTOGRAPHY: LILY PAD CONTRIBUTED; THE BRASSERIE AND COAST BY CHIP RIEGEL

Above: Arrangement with Glass Bottle by Robert Douglas Hunter, Lily Pad Gallery Below: COAST at Ocean

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41 W EST E LM S TREET G REENWICH, CT

www.V ANDER H ORN A RCHITECTS.COM

TEL. 203.622.7000

@DVHARCHITECTS

LOCAL GUIDE

PHOTOGRAPHY: OLYMPIA TEA R OOM CONTRIBUTED; THE RESTAURANT AT WEEKAPAUG INN BY CHIP RIEGEL

Above: Olympia Tea Room is a Watch Hill favorite. Below: Lump crabmeat from The Restaurant at Weekapaug Inn

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Waterfront Waterfront Waterfront Waterfront Waterfront Waterfront Dining Dining Dining Dining Dining Dining Sea Food Sea SeaFood Sea Sea Food SeaFood Food Food Sea Friends Sea SeaFriends Sea Sea Friends SeaFriends Friends Friends Sea View Sea SeaView Sea Sea View SeaView View View

OpenOpen year Open Open Open year round Open year year round year year round 7 days round round round 7 days 7a days week 77days 7adays days a week week aaa week week week FOR Lunch FOR FOR Lunch FOR FOR Lunch AND FOR Lunch Lunch Lunch Dinner AND AND Dinner AND AND Dinner AND Dinner Dinner Dinner

40 Ocean 40 40 Ocean Road, Ocean 40 40 40 Narragansett Ocean Road, Ocean Ocean Road, Narragansett Road, Road, Narragansett Road, Narragansett Narragansett •Narragansett 401.789.0700 • 401.789.0700 • 401.789.0700 • •thecoastguardhouse.com 401.789.0700 •401.789.0700 401.789.0700 • thecoastguardhouse.com • thecoastguardhouse.com • •thecoastguardhouse.com •thecoastguardhouse.com thecoastguardhouse.com

LOCAL GUIDE

PHOTOGRAPHY: DAVE’S COFFEE CONTRIBUTED; THE COAST GUARD HOUSE BY JOSH EDENBAUM

Above: Popular blend at Dave’s Coffee Below: Linguini and clams entrée at The Coast Guard House

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RESI DENTI AL& COMMERCI ALI NTERI OR DESI GN |KELLI EBURKE. COM |( 8 6 0)2 3 2 9 1 2 8

LOCAL GUIDE

CT; goodspeed.org

Theater & Music

This unique theatre is set in a restored 19th-century church. Known as “Westerly’s Destination for Comedy,” it puts on eight musicals, plays and comedy specials each year. One Granite St., Westerly, RI; granitetheatre.com

Chorus of Westerly The Chorus of Westerly has performed major works and lesser-known pieces for the community and beyond for over 60 years. Today, they are one of the leading orchestral and music performing arts centers in Rhode Island.

Wilcox Park, Westerly, RI; chorusofwesterly.org

Eugene O’Neill Theater Center Above: Grey Sail Brewing in Westerly Center: Saltwater Farm Vineyard Bottom: Jonathan Edwards Winery

Known as the “Launchpad of American Theater,” this prestigious organization has produced seminal works of musical theatre and plays since 1964. The center received two Tony awards for Regional Theatre, and it was awarded a National Medal of Arts from President Obama. 305 Great Neck Rd., Waterford, CT; theoneill.org

Granite Theatre

Salt Marsh Opera Since 2000, the Salt Marsh Opera has produced classical music operettas in their Stonington home base, along with a popular winter concert series and various outdoor productions throughout the busy summer season.

65 Cutler Street, Stonington, CT; saltmarshopera.org

ART Avondale Arts/OMO Jewels Take art classes or stock up on hobbyist essentials at this Watch Hill art gallery and boutique. You’ll also find unique gifts and handcrafted jewelry in the OMO Jewels section. 95 Watch Hill Rd., Westerly, RI; avondalearts.com

The Charlestown Gallery Admire emerging and established talent at this artist-owned gallery.

Specializing in fine contemporary art and regional works, the owners showcase everything from sculpture and paintings to photography and art-class jewelry. 5000 S County

Goodspeed Opera House Since opening in 1963, this majestic opera house has produced over 250 musicals, 70 world premieres and has exported 21 productions to Broadway. The opera house main stage is in East Haddam, with a second stage in Chester comprising Goodspeed’s campus.

6 Main St., East Haddam,

Trail, Charlestown RI; charlestowngalleryri.com

J. Russell Jinishian Gallery This Stonington gallery specializes in fine marine art. The owner—a leading authority in the art world—is a former Director of the Mystic Maritime Gallery at the Mystic Seaport Museum.

Visiting hours are currently appointment only. 152 Water St., Stonington, CT;

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P H O T O G R A P H Y: G R E Y S A I L B R E W I N G C O N T R I B U T E D ; S A LT WAT E R FA R M BY S C O T T F R A N C E S ; JONATHAN EDWARDS CONTRIBUTED

watchhilllighthousekeepers. org

BOUTIQU ES ROCHELLESBOUTIQUE.COM WATCH HILL

NEWPORT

MYSTIC

ROCHELLESBOUTIQUES STONINGTON

MARTHA’S VINEYARD

LOCAL GUIDE

jrusselljinishiangallery.com

which features a full menu and a bevy of brews. 105 Greenmanville Ave., Mystic, CT; coastalgourmetct.com/ latitude41

Lily Pad Gallery For over 30 years, this Bay Street gallery has featured spectacular works of impressionism and realism as well as the abstract. Owner Wivi-Anne Weber, Ph.D, helps clients select works of art to complete their collections.

1 Bay St., Watch Hill, RI; lilypadgallery.com

Olympia Tea Room A family-owned gem that’s been part of the village landscape for over 100 years, Olympia Tea Room is both elegant and welcoming.

The seaside restaurant serves up “locally sourced food and the most generous cocktails in Watch Hill.”

Enjoy the history, cuisine and waterfront views.

74 Bay St., Watch Hill, olympiatearoom.com

Casual Upscale Bouchard Restaurant & Inn This French eatery appeals to sophisticated palates, while the inn is perfect for a romantic getaway. Located in the heart of Newport, Bouchard has been serving fine French cuisine for more than 20 years.

505 Thames St., Newport, RI; bouchardnewport.com

The Brasserie at Weekapaug Inn Known for its warm, inviting setting at Weekapaug Inn, The Brasserie serves up French and European fare

Above: BURGEE Mystic is a new lifestyle shop on Water Street. Below: Christina Stankard Jewelry is known for handcrafted statement pieces.

with seasonal ingredients.

The menu features delectable weekly specials like coq au vin, cote de boeuf, bouillabaisse and more.

25 Spray Rock Rd., Westerly, RI; weekapauginn.com

Bridge Seated above the Pawcatuck River, diners can choose from a seasonal menu of seafood, sandwiches, vegetarian entrées and hearty brunch staples at this lively spot. The

restaurant also offers a raw bar and gluten-free items.

37 Main St., Westerly, RI; bridgeri.com

COAST Considered one of the “World’s Best Waterfront Restaurants” by CNN Traveler, COAST showcases the finest, freshest flavors of the season. This Ocean House favorite is also a Forbes Five-Star rated restaurant, offering a prix-fixe four-course menu that changes nightly.

1 Bluff Ave., Watch Hill, RI; oceanhouseri.com

Engine Room Known for burgers, beer, bourbon and a hearty American menu, this rustic eatery is housed in an old marine engine building.

Wood-paneled décor, a lively crowd and river views only enhance the ambience.

14 Holmes St., Mystic, CT; engineroomct.com

Essex Clipper Dinner Train All aboard! Savor a delightful four-course meal with spectacular views of the Connecticut River Valley.

Dinner is served in a restored 1920s Pullman dinner car, which makes the 2 ½-hour experience even more memorable and romantic. essexsteamtrain.com

Latitude 41° Restaurant Located on the Mystic shore, this premier seafood spot offers new American cuisine and classics like clam chowder, fresh catches and lobster. Be sure to try their laid-back Shipyard Tavern too,

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The Restaurant at Weekapaug Inn This farm-to-table destination offers a modern interpretation of New England coastal cuisine, along with lovely Quonnie Pond views. The main dining venue at Weekapaug Inn, The Restaurant serves “off-the-boat” seafood and other in-season dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. 25 Spray Rock Rd., Westerly, RI; weekapauginn.com

Spain of Narragansett All dishes are made fresh, cooked to order, and served to please at this authentic Spanish staple on Ocean Road. Foodies like the eclectic dishes, while oenophiles like to peruse the extensive wine list. 1144 Ocean Rd., Narragansett, RI; spainri.com

Stoneacre Brasserie Serving French food in a jovial setting, this eatery is a neighborhood gathering spot. Don’t miss brunch options like freshly baked scones, quiche and truffle egg toast. 28 Washington Sq., Newport, RI; stoneacrebrasserie.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: CONTRIBUTED

FOOD & BEVERAGE

View beautiful art, learn new skills, or brush up on existing ones!

and Nantucket Basket workshops. Join us for art openings, book signings, trunk shows, and special events! For a full list of workshops, please visit avondalearts.com

FEATURED DESIGNERS:

Frank & Eileen Xirena Frame Denim Kinross Cashmere A Shirt Thing • Lisa Todd Vilagallo • Lizzie Fortunato

A Curated Curate Collection of American-Made Jewelry, Clothing, Accessories, Jewel Ceramics, Hand Blown Glass and Clever Gifts Cer Ceram ics, H

WWW.OMOJEWELS.COM

95 h Hill |Westerly, W terly, y y, RI (401) 315-5479 315-5479 |Wes | (401) 95Watch Watch HillRoad Road |Wes Westerly, RI |

LOCAL GUIDE

Koi Japanese Cuisine Don’t miss the lunch deals like Bento boxes and sushi bar offerings at this popular Westerly destination. You can also choose from appetizing options like hibachi, sushi, teriyaki and chef’s specials.

65 High St., Westerly, RI; koijapaneserestaurantri. com

Samurai Noodle Bar & Grill Above: Kimberly Pucci Atelier designs custom handbags. Below: Fall look from Rochelle’s Boutique

Italian Bravo Bravo Indulge in house-made pastas, sauces and desserts at this contemporary Italian in a prime Main Street location. Regulars say “bravo bravo” to delectable dishes like pappardelle Bolognese and cacio e pepe. 19 East Main St., Mystic, CT; bravobravoct.com

Mamma Luisa Ristorante Italiano Diners have been coming here for a taste of Italy since 1992. Named for the real Mamma Luisa who ran a restaurant near Bologna, this Northern Italian staple turns out homemade pasta like ricotta and spinach gnocchi with marinara and arugula or a classic spaghetti carbonara. 673 Thames St., Newport, RI; mammaluisa.com

Mango’s Wood Fired Pizza Co. This Olde Mistick Village

pizzeria is owned by two brothers who practice “the art of authentic pizza making” for their thin crust pies. Ingredients are locally sourced, and the dough is made from scratch. After dinner, stop by Mango’s Ice Cream across the street.

27 Coogan Blvd., Mystic, CT; mangospizza.com

Pizzeria Longo At this Westerly restaurant known for “Italian soul food,” dishes are meant to be shared. Be sure to order a delicious variety like chicken Francese, cavatelli Bolognese and coal-fired pizza done 20 different ways. Each dish is prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

84 High St., Westerly, RI; pizzerialongo.com

Japanese Johnny’s Peking Tokyo Serving Japanese fusion and Asian cuisine, this sprawling eatery has a variety of entrées to please any palate.

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Ramen is all the rage at this downtown Mystic noodle bar and grill. For something different, you can’t go wrong with their tasty Asian

barbecue and Japanese curry. Check out the cocktail list featuring specialty drinks like lychee and ginger martinis. 27 West Main St., Mystic, CT; Facebook: samurainoodlemystic.com

Mexican Amigo’s Taqueria & Tequila Dine with your amigos and enjoy savory fajitas, chimichangas or choose from 17 different meats, fish and vegan options for a design-your-own taco. Known for authentic Mexican meals, this upbeat eatery also offers a salsa flight and a variety of delicious margaritas. 2 Canal St., Westerly, RI; amigosri.com

Milagro Café This colorful café puts an innovative spin on

classics like Baja fish tacos, enchiladas verdes and chile relleno. Other fan favorites include traditional street corn, tacos and spicy margaritas served with shaved ice.

142 Water S., Stonington, CT; milagrocafe142.com

Perro Salado Dine in this historic maritime home and sample New England fare with a twist.

Described by the owners as having a “fiesta-like energy,” Perro Salado serves everything from lobster tacos to Caesar salad with jalapeno bacon and cotija cheese. 19 Charles St., Newport, RI; perrosalado. com

Refreshments The Candy Box Adjacent to the iconic Flying Horse carousel, this Watch Hill candy shop makes fudge the old-fashioned way—in a copper kettle.

Indulge your sweet tooth with some saltwater taffy and homemade chocolates or give the chocolate-covered potato chips a try. 14 Fort Rd., Watch Hill, RI; Instagram: candyboxwatchhill

Dave’s Coffee Located in a charming colonial setting in Charlestown, Dave’s Coffee is only 15 minutes from Ocean House. Roasted in Rhode Island, these small batch coffees have fun names like Black Crow, Falcon and Quonnie. Dave’s also serves signature lattes with high-quality blends and flavors. 5193 Old Post Rd., Charlestown, RI; davescoffee.com

Deviant Donuts Donut devotees flock here for the always-changing creations, unique flavors and craft coffee. From samoa and pb+j to limited-edition

PHOTOGRAPHY: KIMBERLY PU CCI ATELIER BY MEGHAN SEPE PHOTOGRAPHY; ROCHELLE’S BOUTIQUE BY SHANNON LAZARRO

Sushi lovers come here for the inventive flavors and delicious handmade rolls, while non-seafood eaters can order teriyaki, hibachi, noodles and more. 12 Coogan Blvd., Mystic, CT; johnnysushibar.com

donuts inspired by movies, these homemade delights are delicious works of art.

27 Coogan Blvd., Building 6, Mystic, CT; deviantdonuts. com

PHOTOGRAPHY: SAIL TRIM CONTRIBUTED; HOLIDAY LIGHTS ©S ONYACHNY - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

Hauser Chocolatier Everything is made in house daily at this family-owned chocolate factory, which has been serving locals for over 60 years. Don’t miss the premium truffles and assorted chocolates in their Westerly sweets shop.

59 Tom Harvey Rd., Westerly, RI; hauserchocolates.com Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream Sample homemade treats at this Mystic institution, which hand mixes ice cream like they did in the 1800s. Try unique flavors such as Kona coffee, Vermont maple nut and Southern peach. You can also order soda floats, shakes and fruit smoothies.

2 West Main St., Mystic, CT;

Above: Sail Trim Again offers sunset cruises and private charters. Below: Wickford Festival of Lights

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BEHIND THE SCENES

JUDY OSTROW

by

photography by CHIP RIEGEL

Meet the NEW leader with hospitality in his DNA:

DANT HIRSCH Ocean House Collection welcomes an executive with lifelong experience

D

ant Hirsch, Ocean House Collection’s new President and Managing Director, is a great fit for the helm of a triple five-star resort that is one of just 14 with that distinction in the world. Many hoteliers have found their niche in the business starting with a summer job at a restaurant or resort.

Some were lured by the travel opportunities of a hospitality career. But Hirsch was doing entrylevel hotel tasks at a time when most children his age were delivering newspapers and mowing lawns.

“My parents owned a coastal resort in Western Canada on Vancouver Island, which my dad built and they expanded over the years, from a small hotel with a few cabins to a spa and resort that is the second largest employer in our little beach town. As a kid, I was cleaning rooms, delivering linens, washing dishes in the kitchen, and gradually got to do some of the big-boy jobs too. We moved there when I was three, so I grew up in the business.” Hirsch notes that Westerly reminds him very much of Parksville, the small and beautiful community where his family built

Tigh-Na-Mara, which translates from Gaelic as “house by the sea.”

After graduating from Penn State, he circled back to hospitality while taking a break before applying to law school, returning to Vancouver Island as general manager of his parents’ resort. By the time he enrolled in Cornell’s Executive Development Program for General Managers, thoughts of a legal career were already in Hirsch’s rearview mirror. Meeting GMs from around the country, he developed a circle of friendships that included James McManemon from the Ritz-Carlton. After the program finished and he returned to Parksville, regular phone conversations with his Cornell colleague led to Hirsch’s introduction to luxury hospitality via a visit to a Ritz-Carlton property at McManemon’s urging. Won over by the level of detail and luxury of the five-star brand, he moved to the United States and began a career trajectory that has led him to Ocean House.

After five years in leadership positions with Ritz-Carlton, he moved on to management positions with St. Regis in Miami and Kauai.

Most recently, Hirsch consulted with The

Dominick in New York as well as working on development for the Six Senses brand. He also served as Regional General Manager of the Americas for COMO Hotels and Resorts, where he led the multimillion-dollar renovation and repositioning of Parrot Cay, a thousand-acre resort property in the Turks and Caicos.

With extensive experience in luxury, Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond properties, his most recent move to Westerly and Ocean House Collection represents an ideal alignment of experience and opportunity.

Ocean House founders Charles and Deborah Royce are enthusiastic about Hirsch’s arrival.

“He has the leadership track record, the creativity and the vision to successfully lead this extraordinary collection of properties and our associates,” note the Royces. “Dant’s understanding of the luxury hotel industry enables him to provide a strategic direction for our capable team members, create exceptional and innovative experiences for our guests, serve our local community, and help position the organization for the future.”

Having landed at Ocean House at the

Opposite page: Hirsch, his wife Ana Maria and son Hayden are enjoying their new home base in Rhode Island.

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BEHIND THE SCENES

Hospitality is treating people well, and about personal relationships. My goal is to be the best leader I can be for the staff...It starts with me, with the employees feeling that support for their efforts, and then working to their highest potential. That’s the crucial factor to earn the stars and diamonds.

His plans as director have a focus that’s been honed by his unique lifelong connection to hospitality.

“Ocean House has already accomplished so much that I’m not about to reinvent the wheel here, but I want to take things that are great, and figure out how make them even better. The idea is to constantly try to get a little closer to perfection. It’s impossible to be perfect, which makes the process an infinite effort.”

He adds, “Hospitality is treating people well, and about personal relationships. My goal is to be the best leader I can be for the staff—we have 500 people working for Ocean House Collection—so that they can thrive in their jobs, make good decisions, and create those great memories that guests will write back to us about.

It starts with me, with the employees feeling that support for their efforts, and then working to their highest potential. That’s the crucial factor to earn the stars and diamonds. And I know that energy resonates with our guests.”

Hirsch’s Do-Not-Miss List As Ocean House and its sister properties move into the cooler months, and guests arrive to enjoy their amenities, Hirsch offers some ideas for things to underline.

Above: Gondola Village at Ocean House creates a warm and cozy setting for a meal.

Take a food and beverage tour Wherever we’ve traveled, my wife and I always try to check out the hotel’s venues and nearby restaurants and bars that look special or fun;

we’ll have a meal, or drinks and appetizers.

Ocean House has options throughout the property and sister properties, so sample as many of our venues as your stay can accommodate.

Gondola Village for an intimate meal in a special setting is one— be on the lookout for a refreshed concept and French cuisine menu this year.

Check the events schedule Ocean House and Weekapaug Inn have wonderful activities centered around the holidays, and our

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team is constantly coming up with ideas to put a fresh spin on favorite events. Take advantage of one if you’re here between Thanksgiving and the New Year. There is plenty going on before

seasonal offerings.

All of us at Ocean House Collection encourage you to make some great memories while you’re here.

Above: The original at Ocean House and a new OH! Spa at the Preserve is a luxurious oasis.

Above: Brunch with Santa is an annual tradition for many guests.

Enjoy some pampering The OH! Spa and its sister spa at The Preserve are ready for you, and you can book an appointment for your favorite treatment based on

Get out and about Our properties are full of surprises.

Borrow a bicycle when it’s not too cold; roads are quiet in the shoulder season and the views are amazing. Or dress for the weather and take a refreshing walk. There are many ways to discover the area, and our staff will be happy to point them out.

PHOTOGRAPHY: GONDOLA BY CHIP RIEGEL; SANTA BY REINHARD S OKOL; MASSAGE BY ©2018 CHIP RIEGEL

beginning of the 2021 high season with his wife Ana Maria and young son Hayden, Hirsch reflects on what he loves about his new position, and what his vision is, for now and the future of Ocean House Collection.

“I’m from a small seaside town, and always envisioned raising my children in a place like the one where I grew up. I don’t see myself going back to Western Canada—I love living in the United States and have been able to spend my career in great places—I’ve lived in Miami and Hawaii. When I uncovered Watch Hill, it did remind me of home. And the whole collection of Ocean House hotels enables me to step into an amazing group of properties. When you’re managing properties of 70 rooms, there are so many things you can do here that you cannot possibly do in a hotel with 300 or 400 rooms.

We’ve got the opportunity to truly personalize the guest experience and make it exceptional.

I feel that this organization and my own management style are a great fit.”

PHILANTHROPY

by JUDY OSTROW

photography by CHIP RIEGEL

Making an Impact Ocean House Fund for Charitable Giving Supports Community Causes with Innovative Employee Involvement Above, left to right: The advisory board consists of Ocean House Collection employees including Lauren DiStefano, Laurie Hobbs, Ben Tomek, Dant Hirsch and Harry Staley.

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he management and associates of Ocean House, Weekapaug Inn and its sister properties have built a global reputation for these resorts on the strength of their unified commitment to providing excellence in hospitality at the highest level.

So when thinking about how to extend this degree of commitment and give back to the communities in which they operate and live,

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the Ocean House Fund for Charitable Giving was launched five years ago as a philanthropic effort to support worthy local causes.

The Ocean House Fund was created in 2017 in cooperation with the Rhode Island Foundation, focusing on philanthropic efforts to support local children in need, underserved households and local foodways-related causes, that help bring food to people who otherwise

wouldn’t have it. The Ocean House Fund was inspired by the generosity of OH Collection Founders Charles and Deborah Royce and their commitment to the community.

Each year, employees from any Ocean House Collection property can nominate a non-profit organization to receive a donation from the Ocean House Fund. The Fund's advisory board consisting of employees of every level,

then make fundraising decisions based on these nominations from employees. This board meets in the first quarter of each year to consider awards to nominees with needs that coincide with the Fund’s charitable focus areas. One of the first major gifts was inspired when OH employees, delivering toys donated from Ocean House’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and Children’s Party, discovered that the Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center (PNC)—an organization dedicated to providing food and other assistance to families in need in the community—needed a new van to continue their work including the delivery of food. In a true team effort, they enlisted the local dealership, Masse Automotive Group, to find the vehicle best suited to PNC’s needs, then followed up with Printing Plus in Westerly to place the organization’s logo on the van.

Executive Director Susan Sedensky expressed PNC’s appreciation.

“We were very grateful for this extraordinary gift, after our current van was in disrepair and became inoperable. This van enables us to more effectively transport food and essential supplies for underserved people in our community,” says Sedensky.

Other organizations that have received Ocean House Fund grants include the Rhode Island Center for Assisting Those in Need, one of the top food banks in Rhode Island; the Beechwood Center for Wellbeing; the Olean Center, which provides services to children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and others. There was even an innovative grant to a local school district to help underserved children and their unique needs not covered by any other organization.

In addition to funding, the Ocean House Fund for Charitable Giving has helped children and families in need in other ways, including the serving of lunches when schools were closed through the Off the Menu Food Truck, and on holidays during the pandemic.

Asked how Ocean House guests can be involved in this effort, Laurie Hobbs, who heads the fund advisory board, notes that guests of OH Collection properties help in many ways. “Gifts from holiday events, sales of our annual limited-edition holiday snowman toys, and part of the proceeds from our high profile venues—such as the Gondola Village and Sipping Terrace—contribute to the good work of the Fund.”

“Through donations and small acts of kindness, we make a positive impact in our communities like no one else can,” says Hobbs.

Top row, left to right: Holiday items benefit the charitable fund.

Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center received a new van to make food deliveries.

Bottom row, left to right: Gondola Village at Ocean House; Toy drives at Christmas events

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by KIM KAVIN

Clockwise from top left: The Drawing Room at Ocean House; OH Spa! massage treatment; Card Room at Weekapaug Inn; Amusebouche with fresh tuna

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photography by CHIP RIEGEL

SPA PHOTO BY ©AFRICA STUDIO - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

EXPERIENCES

T H E D E S T I N A T I O N FO R B U S I N E S S R E T R EA T S

CORPOR ATE CHIC Company retreats get a curated touch at Ocean House and Weekapaug Inn

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orporate guests at the Ocean House and Weekapaug Inn want two things: unique options and variety. That’s exactly what Rachelle Lachica, Director of Catering and Events for both properties, provides as part of the team that makes every corporate retreat not only exceptional, but also unforgettable.

If a business team wants a raw bar display with live shucking of the oysters, then that’s what she will arrange. If guests are more excited about pulled pork and want a full pig on display, Lachica can do that, too. Lots of sushi lovers in the company? She’s ready for that as well, with a nearly unlimited variety of hand rolls and sashimi to choose among.

And that’s just for the cocktail hours and receptions.

“We offer our guests a variety,” says Lachica.

“If they are here multiple days, one night could

be more of a family-style buffet. Another night could be multiple plated courses, very grand.

We want them to experience everything that we have to offer.”

Companies traveling for meetings will find a luxurious, bespoke experience at the Ocean House and Weekapaug Inn. The spaces on the property have a range of options for everything from private executive meetings to group brainstorming; the properties can be utilized by the room or in their entirety; and the customized menus and team-building activities are organized to accentuate whatever each team wants as its focus.

“There’s a group coming in soon that has more vegetarians, so we’re doing things like gluten-free and dairy-free gnocchi with roasted vegetables,” says Lachica. “Our chefs are pretty flexible in terms of creating something new that might not be on our menu. We just have

to talk to the guests and see what they feel like doing.”

Event spaces are as varied as the customized menus. At the Ocean House, the largest space is the Seaside Ballroom, which can hold 150 people for events, or an ideal number of 50 to 65 people for meetings with projectors, PowerPoint presentations and the like. (Videoconferencing is available for team members who cannot be on-site.) The ballroom is adjacent to a terrace with outdoor seating—which can be used in tandem with the ballroom or on its own for events such as welcome dinners, always with wide, scenic views of the croquet lawn and Atlantic Ocean.

More intimate meetings at the Ocean House can be organized in the Harbor Room, a boardroom-style space that seats 25 people, or in the Drawing Room, which has breathtaking outdoor views for about 40 people.

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Left: A stone fireplace and cathedral ceiling make a dramatic focal point at Weekapaug Inn's MeetingHouse. Right: The MeetingHouse terrace overlooks Quonochontaug Pond.

Executive dinners can be staged on the Ocean House’s South Lawn with bistro lighting and farm-style tables amid the hydrangeas. For even more of a “wow factor,” there’s the Dune Cottage down at the beach. Corporate groups can enjoy a New England lobster boil on the deck or on the sand, if the goal is to help groups settle in with barefoot elegance.

At the Weekapaug Inn, the new MeetingHouse overlooks the saltwater pond and features hardwood cathedral-type ceilings with a stone fireplace. It is ideal for C-suite meetings with top executives because it’s detached from the inn, allowing for privacy and confidentiality. The MeetingHouse also has an outside deck for meals, separate from the meeting space, so executives can enjoy the natural beauty all around.

Also at the Weekapaug Inn is Fenway Cottage, which is adjacent to the pool area. It can be blocked out for corporate events or used with the pool space for receptions and dinners.

Outdoors at the Weekapaug Inn, the Event Lawn is next to the MeetingHouse. Corporate groups often enjoy gathering outside with bistro lighting overhead.

All venues can be set up however clients would like them. And, Lachica says, a whimsical note can be incorporated along with a refreshing snack.

“We have a gelato and ice cream station,

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and there’s an ice cream bike,” she says. “It’s a refrigerated box that has a bike toward the front, and the ice cream is inside the box to keep it cool. We serve it out of that with whatever toppings they want.”

Team-building activities can be just as varied. Options include standup paddleboarding, paddleboard yoga, boat tours and safaris, guided kayaking or bicycling, beach walks with a naturalist, birding, seine netting, stargazing with telescopes, triathlons, scavenger hunts, bonfires with s’mores,

Dune Cottage at Ocean House plays host to lobster boils and scenic beachside meals.

jewelry-making and wine tasting.

Even better: Corporate groups can combine a team-building activity with a customized food and beverage experience in any location on the properties.

“I have a group that chose croquet as one of their activities, so we are doing cocktails and croquet,” says Lachica. “They are having champagne and passed hors d’oeuvres while playing croquet during the day, and then they will head over to dinner after.”

Custom Retreat

This page, top to bottom: The MeetingHouse at Weekapaug Inn; Company presentation at the Seaside Ballroom; Holding up to 150, the Seaside Ballroom is Ocean House's largest venue.

From scavenger hunts to spa breaks, team building goes on vacation.

BUSINESS CASUAL One popular option among recent corporate retreats is using the signature suites at both resorts. Each of the suites has a professional, built-in kitchen, so groups can meet in the suites and have an informal, living room type of setting. With these suites isolated from the resort’s public areas, there’s an opportunity to create an atmosphere conducive to real idea-sharing. And, when it’s time for a break, the suites have outdoor terraces for dining.

Above: Companies are booking the signature suites at both properties for casual meetings and gatherings.

Pictured above is the Sea Glass Suite at Ocean House.

KAYAKING PHOTO BY ©MAX TOPCHII - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

FAMILY AFFAIR On a larger scale, companies have taken over the entire Ocean House or Weekapaug Inn properties. The events team prearranges spa appointments, babysitting for younger kids, cupcakemaking and sandcastle-building activities for the older kids, and more— creating the ambience of a family-style company retreat that encompasses every nook and cranny on site.

Above: Family-friendly outings like kayaking, biking and ice cream socials are being added to itineraries.

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EXPERIENCES

by ELIZABETH KEYSER

photography by CHIP RIEGEL

CE N TE R f o r W I N E & C U L I N A R Y A R T S

CLASSES for FOODIES T

Guests can create holiday delights at the Center for Wine & Culinary Arts

he day after Thanksgiving, Ocean House is transformed. Overnight, the entire hotel is festively decorated for the season. Over the years the theme has ranged from Christmas in Rhode Island to the Grinch Who Stole Christmas. No matter what the theme, the large gingerbread house in the lobby always draws smiles, and more smiles. Ocean House’s Executive Pastry Chef Donna Yuen designs, bakes,

Above: From gingerbread house workshops to cookie decorating, Executive Pastry Chef Donna Yuen shares her baking secrets.

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assembles and decorates this gingerbread house to holiday perfection.

To experience all the season’s flavors, Chef Donna and Executive Chef Matt Voskuil share their love for baking and cooking at Ocean House’s Center for Wine & Culinary Arts (CWCA). Guests can learn to decorate gingerbread houses and cookies or create canapés for a cocktail party. For a festive twist, Wine Director Jonathan Feiler

Above: Executive Chef Matt Voskuil teaches a multi-course Feast of the Fishes holiday cooking class.

Above: Guests turn to Wine Director Jonathan Feiler for food and wine pairings at the CWCA.

BAKING CLASSES Redolent with the aroma of gingerbread, sugar cookies and chocolate, the pastry kitchen is a flurry of precise activity as Chef Donna beats, mixes, rolls, cuts and bakes tray after tray of treats for Ocean House’s holiday events and festive Twelve Days of Christmas.

For the tree-lighting ceremony alone, Chef Donna bakes 1,000 gingerbread men and cookies. Yet it is her classes and workshops in decorating gingerbread houses, cookies and cupcakes that are the most popular, sold-out events of the season.

Guests of all ages, friends, grandparents and children return year after year. “People love it,” says Yuen, “They take it seriously.”

As in serious fun. How wonderful is it to be presented with Ocean House’s premier baked goods, ready for decorating? The chef bakes and assembles gingerbread houses, cookies and cupcakes for each guest at the classes.

She fills piping bags with royal icing in an array of holiday colors. Cups are loaded with gumdrops, sprinkles, candy canes and more.

Chef Donna demonstrates piping and gives decorating tips. She walks around the Seaside Ballroom to see if anyone needs help, but usually, people are lost in their own creativity. “They just get to decorating,” she says. Over

the last four years, she has noticed that kids of all ages take their designs seriously too. “They actually want to learn to do it almost like a professional,” she says. Food television programs inspire.

Ocean House’s pastry chef makes it happen.

Gingerbread Village Competition and Reception

Dec. 13, 2021 The Twelve Days of Christmas begins in Ocean House’s Seaside Ballroom as local high school culinary arts students and their families attend a reception to honor their creativity in gingerbread house building and decorating. Every year students in the culinary programs at Westerly and Chariho high schools express Ocean House’s Christmas theme in their gingerbread house designs. After drawing and creating templates, they bake walls, doors, roofs and chimneys in their high school kitchen ovens. Chef Donna visits the students on the day they assemble their gingerbread houses.

She gives advice on construction and answers questions. A sound structure is important. The houses must be able to make the trip to Ocean House for the reception.

Last year’s theme was

Top: Chef Donna teaches the holiday baking classes.

Bottom: Christmas Mule cocktails are a seasonal favorite.

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Gingerbread House Decorating Workshop

Dec. 14, 2021 There’s something magical and beguiling about gingerbread houses, and this workshop opens the creative

gates to decorating them.

Chef Donna teaches guests to transform common grocery store items into masterpieces like roofs thatched with Frosted Mini Wheats or tiled in Hershey chocolate squares.

She also shows how to “put a lot of frosting on the roof to make it look like snow.” One guest returns year after year with a new inspiration from Pinterest, involving difficult, detailed piping. “She just sits there quietly and decorates in the most elaborate all-white piping,” says Yuen, with admiration. Which is not to say that green gum drops don’t have their place on a gingerbread house. They look cute anywhere you stick them.

GINGERBREAD COOKIE RECIPE

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efore joining Ocean House four years ago, Executive Pastry Chef Donna Yuen created modern pastries and artisanal bread at Menton, Barbara Lynch’s acclaimed Relais & Châteaux restaurant in Boston. She has always been drawn to making desserts. “I like the art, the creativity, the detail.

I like the fact that it is the last thing you get at a meal. You end on that note. That's the last thing on the guest’s mind.”

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Cookies and Cupcake Decorating Class

10 holiday cookie cutter shapes. She shows the class how to use a pastry bag of royal frosting to outline the shape of the cookie and then

Dec. 21, 2021 Imagine a plate of perfectly baked sugar cookies cut into festive holiday shapes.

Snowflakes, stars and snowmen—Chef Donna has

Executive Pastry Chef Donna Yuen Ingredients

10 Tablespoons (2/3 cup; 145g) unsalted butter, room temperature 3/4 cup (150g) packed dark brown sugar 2/3 cup (200g) molasses 1 large egg 3 and 1/2 cups (438g) all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 Tablespoon ground ginger 1 Tablespoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

Instructions

1. In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter for 1 minute on medium speed until completely smooth and creamy. Add brown sugar and molasses and beat on medium high speed until combined and creamy looking. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed. Next, beat in egg and vanilla on high speed for 2 full minutes. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.

PHOTOGRAPHY: GINGERBREAD ©RUTH BLACK - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; CUPCAKE ©ALEXANDR_DG - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

A Year without a Santa Claus, from the 1974 movie. Because of the pandemic, many of the students were at home instead of school. The surprising result was increased creativity, as kids with more time and less peer pressure Googled advanced techniques, creating features like windows from colored melted sugar.

As one of the judges who selects the winner at Ocean House’s Gingerbread Village reception, Chef Donna evaluates how well they portray the theme, and their creativity and technical skill.

Winners receive prize money, and the community builds a holiday tradition with Ocean House.

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHRIMP BY CHIP RIEGEL; FISH BY KONDRATOVA EKATERINA

“flood” the center with icing.

Guests catch on quickly to using a pastry bag. Then they dip into sprinkles and candies and start decorating, or they let the icing dry before adding another layer or texture of icing. Three cupcakes— vanilla, chocolate and red velvet—are most popular with kids. Chef Donna shows how to use different piping tips to make a swirl, rose, tree and poinsettia. And she always bakes extra cookies.

In the Cellar: Thanksgiving 101 FO O D & W I N E From Thanksgiving through the Twelve Days of Christmas, Ocean House offers special holiday cooking and wine and cocktail pairing classes.

The classes draw a range of guests looking to celebrate the season with festive foodie experiences. Ocean House’s chefs demonstrate techniques that elevate entertaining, and show how to have a good time doing it. When Wine Director Jonathan Feiler starts pouring choice selections from the Ocean House cellar, the mood gets merrier.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, allspice and cloves together until combined. On low speed, slowly mix into wet ingredients until combined. Cookie dough will be thick and slightly sticky. Divide dough in half and place each onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Wrap up each tightly and pat down to create a disc shape. Chill for 2-3 hours.

3. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line 2-3 large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set aside.

4. Remove 1 disc of chilled cookie dough from the refrigerator. Generously flour a work surface, as well as your hands and the rolling pin. Roll out disc until 1/4-inch thick. Cut into shapes. Place shapes 1 inch apart on prepared baking sheets. Re-roll dough scraps until all dough is shaped. Repeat with remaining disc of dough.

5. Bake cookies for about 9-10 minutes. If your cookie cutters are smaller than 4 inches, bake for about 8 minutes. If your cookie cutters are larger than 4 inches, bake for 11 minutes.

6. Allow cookies to cool for 5 minutes on the cookie sheet. Transfer to cooling rack to cool completely.

Nov. 20, 2021 What to drink with Thanksgiving is an age-old question—and Jonathan Feiler has some new answers.

Why not start the festivities with a cocktail? (For ideas, see Canapés and Cocktails, below.) For wine pairings, Feiler is guided by the flavor profiles the chef uses in the all-important side dishes that accompany the turkey. He’ll seek out sparkling wines and Pinot Noirs from unexpected parts of the world to pair with the chef’s contemporary take on tradition. Sweet potatoes gain a subtle smoky heat from a touch of chipotle that brings out the sweetness of the potatoes. And the best mashed potatoes? Hint: butter is involved.

a cocktail party. Guests learn how to bring a bit of Ocean House’s casual sophistication home in this class. One of the most popular canapés are gougères, the little French pastry puffs, filled with something luscious like smoke trout and crème fraîche. The chef demonstrates how to cook the pastry cream, pipe it from bags, and bake them into airy delights. For cocktails, in past years Feiler has demonstrated guest favorites like mulled wine, Poinsettias (cranberry, sparkling wine and fresh herbs), and the Oh My! This year the cocktail is likely to be the cheerfully hued RoseYAY! featuring Tito’s Handmade Vodka.

and vintage Champagnes.

Feiler, a sommelier, answers questions about grape blends, and talks about structure, balance, texture and taste of these special wines.

A Very Veuve Christmas

Dec. 17, 2021 Christmas is the bubbliest time of year, and Veuve Clicquot’s French Champagnes offer fine bubbles and silky textures. Ocean House’s Wine Director guides guests through a tasting flight that begins with the classic Yellow Label Brut, and then moves through rosés

Canapés and Cocktails

Dec. 16, 2021 Canapés are one-bite delights, a savory treat to nibble with a cocktail before dinner. Or they can be the backbone of a selection of hors d’oeuvres at

Feast of the Fishes Workshop

Dec. 20, 2021 You don’t have to be Italian to love the Feast of the Fishes.

This mulit-course Christmas Eve dinner is unique to each family, different in every home. It intrigues people who have never celebrated it. The chef teaches guests three to four quick and easy recipes for progressive courses. “We cover a lot of the prep,” says Ocean House Collection Executive Chef Matt Voskuil.

“We teach the guests what to make ahead, and how to do several courses without being redundant.” This year, those courses could include seared salmon with beets and oranges, and turbot with lemongrass, ginger and cauliflower.

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DESIGN

by JUDY OSTROW

photography by CHIP RIEGEL

Above: The suite’s main floor offers meticulous detailing; its gorgeous wood trim is finished with gleaming layers of hand-applied varnish.

Seaside Magic The Morgan Suite feels like a whimsical and luxurious yacht—without setting sail

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Above: A marine theme is suggested by the color palette of the lower level and outfitted throughout with built-in entertainments.

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n addition to its unsurpassed location on the Atlantic coast and award-winning hospitality, Ocean House has sought to define itself by the unique qualities of its public and private spaces. While every guest accommodation offers special details and amenities that are sure to please the luxury traveler, each of the resort’s Signature Suites lives up to its promise of an unparalleled experience. And one of the most noteworthy of these splendid spaces is the Morgan Suite.

The two-level, three-bedroom, 3,500square-foot space overlooks the ocean from every window. It is partially named for the Charles W. Morgan, the only wooden ship that remains from the 19th century American merchant whaling fleet, and it’s now an attraction of the nearby Mystic Seaport Museum. Morgan is also the middle name of Ocean House’s proprietor, Charles Royce, and the design for this meticulously finished, ocean-facing accommodation was created

by Hayward Gatch and overseen by Royce and his wife Deborah. Gatch had worked on the Royces’ home in Watch Hill, and most recently completed the couple’s reconstruction and restoration of the 18th century

Above: Shutters in the bathrooms open to bring natural light and views to these interior spaces. Below: The lower level offers a second kitchen, plus indoor and patio spaces for suite guests to gather.

Pendleton-Chapman house at Avondale Farm.

Gatch was inspired by the potential of the space—originally designed as two units, one on the floor directly above the other—which offered commanding water views and sent him on a quest to study images, plans and appointments of historic vessels and early 20th century yachts. The Royces’ intent with this reimagining would provide a unit that could accommodate an entire extended family. Gatch’s vision included a structural plan requiring comprehensive woodworking and cabinetmaking skill. So, his first task was to find a team that could execute the interiors with a level of craftsmanship that would express the design ideas he shared with the Royces.

“It was exciting to assemble the team to create this suite,” says Gatch. “We used a group of 10 highly skilled carpenters, who were essentially creating the space as if they were working within a heavy marine structure, with everything condensed as it would be in a ship.

Just one example of their artisanship is the staircase that connects the suite’s two levels.

We wanted to install it at a good angle and with a gracious scale. So much individual effort was

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Above left: The galley kitchen’s centerpiece is a hand-built Molteni range.

Above right: A local foundry created the unique fireplace surround.

Left and right: Interior designer Iliana Moore found subtly nautical textiles and accessories for every room.

Right: A hidden porthole in the powder room medicine chest provides an unexpected ocean view.

Far right: The suite’s backlit skylights add another “below deck” element to the yacht-like space.

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Whimsical Style

Inspired by vintage yachts, the Morgan Suite puts a seaworthy smile on fine design.

These tech-savvy bunks feature their own sound systems and televisions.

involved in creating this special element—and frankly, every facet of the project—that it was sometimes difficult for our large crew to work without tripping over each other. But the result is amazing. The effect—with all the handvarnished woodwork, the gridded backlit stair treads, the custom brass hardware—makes you feel that you are moving between two decks of a very fine yacht.”

Gatch sought out luxury materials from around the world to create the structure of the suite’s upper level. To bring the views from the front windows throughout the space, the primary bedroom floor has been raised and shuttered windows can be opened and closed in the bedroom and bath, so that the ocean may be seen from every vantage point. In a bit of whimsy, which both Gatch and the Royces appreciate, the back of the upper level’s powder room medicine cabinet was equipped with a porthole and a water view—another small surprise built into the Morgan Suite’s plan.

“One should never underestimate the charm of small spaces and interior windows,” says Gatch. “They can be magical.”

Some of the suite’s other details stand out.

The galley kitchen, for example, belies its functional name with its central feature, a handmade, custom-crafted Molteni range.

Guests can sit at the semicircular breakfast bar and watch their meals being prepared; a stay at Ocean House provides the possibility of reserving a private chef to cook up breakfast, lunch, dinner, or create a personalized cooking

class. A drop-down video screen above the cooking surface lets guests watch while the chef works.

“We wanted everything to be special, and reflect the place where the guests have come,” notes Gatch. He had an artist hand paint tiles for the kitchen backsplash with lifelike portraits of bluefish—one of local saltwater anglers’ favorite fighting fish. The living room’s custom fireplace surround was cast at a local foundry; its centerpiece is a relief sculpture— also depicting a bluefish.

Such details whisper the nautical environment of coastal Rhode Island. And children who are part of the Morgan Suite guest roster—it sleeps 10—will love the bunks, built in next to the formal dining area, complete with their own sound systems, televisions, and a sailor’s eye-view of all the goings-on.

On the lower level, another primary suite, living area and kitchen open out to a spacious private terrace, so guests can enjoy the salt air and views without leaving the suite. For quiet moments, a cozy reading nook also offers an ocean prospect from its spot at the foot of the stairs. Its many facets will keep new guests in the process of discovering the Morgan Suite’s delights well beyond the first night of their memorable stay.

“Many guests remark on the beauty of this suite,” adds Gatch, “but they also love the fact that we’ve built in plenty of fun.”

Iliana Moore, principal of Columbine Antiques and Decoration, has worked with Deborah and Chuck Royce on more than a dozen projects.The Morgan Suite’s luxury built-in structure gives it the bespoke feel of a fabulous yacht; Deborah and the designer injected a bit of whimsy with a subtle nautical theme. “Every Ocean House suite is a great experience, and this one is particularly special,” says Moore. “We made our references to the sea with lighthearted and amusing details,

Top: Grid-patterned cubby doors on the bunk beds add a belowthe-deck feel. Middle: A shiny propeller is repurposed into an elegant side table, while the rope reading lamp defines nautical with a twist. Bottom: Marine hardware lends a coastal look for a sleek, shipshape statement.

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DESIGN

by OWEN MCDONALD

photography by CHIP RIEGEL

INSPIRED DESIGN P R E S E R VE S P O R T I N G C LU B & R E S I D E N CE S

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secret of architects and builders tracing back to ancient Greece, the Golden Ratio is a mathematical formula borrowed from nature. It imperceptibly alters our sense of space, making it experiential and alive.

You might never be aware of this spatial principal at work unless you ask someone like developer and hotelier Paul Mihailides: “What makes a great hotel?” As the creative force behind the Preserve Sporting Club & Residences—the newest member of Ocean House Collection—Mihailides is a

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Nature Meets Nurture at Hilltop Lodge and OH! Spa

straight-talking visionary who thinks in this mystical language of proportion and balance.

Ask, and he literally explains how to build a great hotel. In fact, he’s done exactly that.

Working with longtime friend and collaborator Marie Simone, a respected interior designer based in nearby Cranston, Rhode Island, Mihailides has officially topped his glorious Preserve Sporting Club project with its latest crowning achievement: Hilltop Lodge.

As part of the Ocean House Collection, frequent guests of sister hotels Ocean House, Weekapaug Inn and Boston’s Inn at Hastings

Park understand that Hilltop Lodge joins rarified ranks. People who know the portfolio have best-in-class expectations, and Mihailides aims to exceed them.

“Everything comes back to balance,” says Mihailides, invoking examples from Newport’s Mansion Row to some of the world’s premier properties, but alighting on Ocean House.

“Even though it’s a massive structure, when you first walk in, it feels quaint and cozy.”

Marie Simone has taken that sensibility to another level inside the stunning new Hilltop Lodge.

This page: Clinton Cox welcomes members and guests at the Main Lodge.

Top row: Interior Designer Marie Simone utilized “nature, color and the abstraction of mixing elements” for the Hilltop Lodge. Middle row: Rich textured fabrics and local art are featured in each room's décor. Bottom row: Condo-style suites are equipped with gourmet kitchens and open-plan living areas with modern, luxury touches.

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Below: Rustic details blend with casual elegance. Right: Rooms feature high-end finishes and stones from local quarries.

Dreamy Designs in a Woodland Wonderland radled in Rhode Island’s forested coastal lowlands just 13 miles from the Ocean House beach, Hilltop Lodge was first imagined as an expression of the rustic sporting life that resonates throughout the property. It all starts at the welcoming Main Lodge and the 15,000-square-foot Sporting Shoppe, continuing into a wonderland of Hobbit Houses, safari-style glamping tents, chic tiny houses and awe-inspiring treehouses, along with sporting thrills unequaled in the Northeastern U.S. Joining Ocean House Collection inspired a new hotel concept, however—modern lines, artistic use of locally quarried stone, and décor with a casual luxury that feels like home.

Mihailides called on Simone, his most trusted interior design mind, to bring it all together in signature style.

A soft-spoken former jewelry designer, Simone says of her Hilltop Lodge masterpiece, “I saw nature, color and the abstraction of

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mixing elements” as crucial components of the palette.

“As a woman, if I were staying at the Hilltop Lodge with my husband, who might be out shooting or fishing or doing sporting things on his own, I would want a luxurious space that’s calming, restful and elegant,” says Simone.

“I would want a great spa. That’s what we’ve created at Hilltop Lodge.”

The result is a triumph of color and texture stylishly set off with accent pieces—a superb chaise lounge framed by massive windows, mosaic stone patterns whispering “country elegance” rather than proclaiming “skyline penthouse”—in 24 open, airy suites and rooms.

Here again, balance and the Golden Ratio come subtly into play, as do Simone’s tranquil choices of local art that convey the heart of New England. In fall and winter the natural world spills through windows everywhere in a dazzling display of seasonal hues and breathtaking views.

The Hilltop Lodge’s condo-style suites feature sumptuous island kitchens, quiescent dining nooks, lovable living rooms, marbleappointed bathrooms, and patios that make one feel like they’re not merely on top of a hill but floating above a secluded woodland oasis.

Marble and granite give the bathrooms a spa-like feel.

Above: Hobbit House Opposite page, right: OH! Spa at Hilltop Lodge

OH! Spa—Oh, Yes—and Quite a Bit or the crown jewel of Hilltop Lodge, Mihailides went all-out and recreated Ocean House’s award-winning OH! Spa with a touch of his trademark flair.

Like its sibling down the way, OH! Spa at Hilltop Lodge features serene treatment rooms, soothing jacuzzi, sauna and spa specialties made famous by Ocean House including the herb-infused Garden Experience, the gentle Lavender Fields, and a life-changing massage menu.

Regulars of the sister properties will be pleased to see familiar faces at the Preserve, such as longtime Ocean House Collection manager Christine Smith, who until recently was General Manager for the Inn at Hastings Park. Smith is a consummate hospitality expert, and further assurance of the Preserve’s excellence.

Once on the sprawling 3,600 acre property adjacent to a wildlife refuge, one needs no reassurance (but it’s very nice all the same).

In autumn, the environs light up with the brilliant colors that leaf-peepers travel to see.

As winter arrives, snowy days begin and end by glowing fireplaces. In between the activities are out of this world, and more like a world of their own.

If shooting is in order, sporting clays is a

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fantastic way to spend part of your day. While the Preserve boasts a fantastic 18-hole par 3 golf course, some of us have no aptitude for the game. If that’s the case for you, try your hand-eye coordination in one of the heated, covered shooting stands. The feeling of winning a competitive round of sporting clays versus your golfer pals: priceless.

The Preserve Equestrian Training Stables (PETS) is the new nexus of excitement on the property, with its 16 stalls and indoor training rink. As many already know, this astounding destination is also home to America’s longest indoor shooting range outfitted with 24 stations, automated shooting systems, all manner of firearms, and lessons taught by U.S. Navy and special forces marksmen.

Fall and winter are also wonderful seasons for ziplining. The Preserve’s course is over 1,700 feet long. It’s enough to get the kids off the rock wall and out into the crisp New England air.

Afterwards, all hunger is satiated at the Double Barrel Kitchen and its refined dining room. Having cocktails, you’re likely to encounter (and be invited to join) a Mihailides family and friends gathering. That’s the heart of this endlessly surprising place: a sense of belonging.

Top: Preserve Chairman Paul Mihailides with his daughter, Ariana.

Center: Double Barrel Kitchen is the Preserve's signature restaurant.

Bottom: The 18-hole, par 3 golf course was designed by renowned golf architect Robert McNeil.

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CUISINE

by ELIZABETH KEYSER

photography by TOM CURRY and JENNA SKUTNIK

Culinary Destination H I S TO R I C L E X I N G TO N , M A S S A C H U -

Fall and Winter at The Inn at Hastings Park

FRIENDSGIVING Throughout November, IAHP celebrates Friendsgiving. People appreciate being together more than ever. Guests and their friends can relax, eat, drink, interact, learn, and enjoy the personalized service. Outdoor seating on the porch has increased, and the front porch has become a new popular outdoor dining spot.

The Culinary Garden is transformed into a glistening wonderland, with large, clear,

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Left: Kennealy goes for simple elegance in a Thanksgiving menu.

Right: During the November Culinary Weekend, guests learn to cook a Thanksgiving feast.

heated igloos that enclose a table seating six to eight. The table is decorated in pale pink hues inspired by Whispering Angel rosé. The celebrated rosé from Château d’Esclans of Provence is one of the wines featured in the optional pairing with the prix-fixe multicourse tasting menu prepared by the Inn’s new Executive Chef Jordan Bailey. The chef specializes in seasonal, New England cuisine featuring goods from local farms. On weekdays, an á la carte lunch is served. On weekends, the Culinary Garden is a popular site for the multi-course, plated champagne brunch. (Book ahead; the igloos are popular.)

IMMERSIVE CULINARY WEEKENDS Last year’s culinary weekends were a success, and this year the Inn is focusing more on pairings, with bourbon, beer, wine and sparkling wine. The two-night package at the Inn includes 20 hours of immersive personalized culinary instruction, local farm tours, and a multi-course tasting menu cooked by the Executive Chef. Wines are paired with the meal. Each lesson highlights a specific technique that adds to the student’s mastery.

Students enjoy the food they’ve helped cook at breakfasts, lunch, and at the Friday night dinner party.

PORTRAIT AND FOOD BY TOM CURRY

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mbrace your inner Scandinavian.” That’s the playful advice from Innkeeper and Chef Trisha Pérez Kennealy for enjoying outdoor dining this fall and winter at the Inn at Hastings Park (IAHP).

Last year, guests kept warm while dining in heated igloos in the Culinary Garden, an unexpectedly magical experience on snowy nights. This season, the Inn is expanding its offerings. The Inn at Hastings Park has become a culinary destination, offering a range of personalized, interactive experiences—multicourse seasonal tasting menus, high teas, cooking classes, immersive culinary weekends, a bountiful brunch and more. “People still want to spend time outdoors, and that’s really in keeping with New England,” says Kennealy.

After all, there’s no such thing as bad weather if you’re dressed right.

enjoyable evening for everybody, including the hostess.” And they can be applied to hosting Hanukkah, Christmas, Passover and Easter.

The December theme is Champagne inspired.

Guests learn about sparkling wines and why they are terrific to pair with food. Kennealy will share her favorite sparklers and teach about the variety of grapes and methods used.

As always, guests leave the weekend well-fed and inspired.

FOOD AND IGLOO PHOTOS BY JENNA SKUTNIK; CHAMPAGNE ©WIRESTOCK - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; GINGERBREAD HOUSE ©BOZHDB - STOCK.ADOBE. COM

GINGERBREAD HOUSE DECORATING CLASSES New this year are two gingerbread decorating classes, one for children, the other for adults.

“Decorating gingerbread houses is a lot of fun,” says Kennealy. “People like the idea of making gingerbread houses at home, but it's a really labor-intensive process.” IAHP takes out the labor and amps up the fun. Chefs set up each guest with a pre-baked gingerbread house, and all the fixings for decorating—piping bags of royal icing, cups of candy canes, gum drops, M&Ms and other goodies. Kennealy demonstrates how to use a piping bag and shares decorating tips. The adult class brings out the inner child in guests, with visions of Instagram ideas in their heads. Adult beverages and snacks are available.

“What was such a treat is that they're so personalized and small, that it was an incredible opportunity to interact with our guests,” says Kennealy. “The couples that came for the weekends had the opportunity to learn a lot, and I had the chance to get to know them and tailor the experience as we progressed through the lessons.”

The topic of the first Culinary Weekend, in September, was Tailgating with a bourbon tasting. Kennealy is a huge fan of tailgating, and she shared tips on how to entertain outdoors. “The most important thing is to design the menu so you can enjoy spending

time with your guests.” That is what makes tailgating so much fun, being with friends.

Well, that’s not exactly all. “It's also about the Patriots winning,” she says. “That’s pretty important too.”

For Octoberfest, the Inn paired food with microbrews, while the November Culinary Weekend theme is Thanksgiving with wine pairings. Kennealy opts for simple elegance at Thanksgiving. Once again, the key is advance preparation so the host can enjoy time with guests. “There are some tricks of the trade that we know from doing this for a living,” she says.

“Those techniques make it a more relaxed and

Clockwise from top left: Pan roasted half chicken; Champagne at a Culinary Weekend; The Igloo Wonderland dining venue; Gingerbread decorating class for adults

HIGH TEA A holiday tradition, Christmas High Tea returns in December. Kennealy has a special place in her heart for High Tea, from her time in London studying at Le Cordon Bleu Culinary School. She earned a Diplôme de Pâtisserie and Diplôme de Cuisine. Tiered plates of pastries and sandwiches, and warm pots of tea delight both adults and children.

The Inn will host more High Teas throughout the winter, focusing on different aspects of the English tradition.

PERSONALIZED EXPERIENCES Kennealy enjoys working with guests to tailor experiences to their interests. Guests inspired by any of these ideas can give the Inn at Hastings Park a call. “People still aren’t traveling internationally, and that makes it a great time to enjoy New England,” she says.

“Come visit—even if you’re 20 minutes away.”

For more information on culinary offerings at the Inn at Hastings Park, visit innathastingspark.com.

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SPECIAL OCCASIONS

by KIM KAVIN

Winter Wedding Two couples create events that are small and spectacular

Left: Anthony Manzo and Lyndsay Bennett celebrate with Ocean House fireworks. Right: The Ferrari-Currie wedding included 25 guests at Weekapaug Inn.

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s Director of Catering and Events for the Ocean House and Weekapaug Inn, Rachelle Lachica is used to accommodating last-minute requests. But that took on a whole new meaning during the winter of 2020. “Every week, there was something new that we did not think of from the week prior,” says Lachica. “When Covid started, you could have 50 people. Then it was down to 15. It adds so much stress. And people were still scared to travel, too.” Even in that environment, she and her team were able to help couples create scaled-down but memorable weddings. More than ever, she says, the pandemic further proved the capabilities the Ocean House Collection team offers: “Tell me what you’re looking for. We can make it happen for you.”

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LYNDSAY BENNETT AND ANTHONY MANZO

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yndsay Bennett and Anthony Manzo went from meeting on the Bumble dating app in early 2018 to planning a 125-guest wedding on Nantucket during summer 2020. But as the pandemic exploded, it became apparent the event they envisioned was not going to happen.

The cancelation was particularly painful, says Lyndsay, because getting married in 2020 was important to them. Most of their parents were celebrating 40th anniversaries that year. The couple wanted to share in that “big anniversary” for years to come.

“Our venue ended up not even being open,” says Lyndsay. “We just kind of waited it out. We tried to plan something small a few times, and it didn’t really work out.”

Lyndsay, who is in corporate real estate, and

Below: Held on a private balcony, this Ocean House wedding concluded with fireworks and a New Year's Eve party.

photography by DANI FINE PHOTOGRAPHY

Anthony, who works in private equity, had been to the Ocean House for drinks. They sat on a deck overlooking a wedding, which provided inspiration for their own special ceremony.

Looking through photos from previous Ocean House weddings, they loved images with fireworks in the background. So, they decided to hold an intimate ceremony on the Sea Glass Suite's private balcony, with their parents and 1 ½-year-old daughter in attendance.

“They have an amazing fireworks display, so that was captured in a lot of our photographs,” says Lyndsay. “It looks like we have our own private, $100,000 fireworks display. We strategically had this amazing suite with a deck that would overlook the fireworks show.”

Lachica's team found the photographer and

violinist, and Ocean House’s resident officiant, Bob Elmer, agreed to perform the ceremony on short notice despite the New Year’s Eve holiday.

“I was a little worried about the fireworks— that was very important to them,” says Lachica.

“You have the weather to worry about, but it all worked out. The fireworks went off, they kissed, and it was a great photo opportunity.”

After enjoying a wedding dinner cooked in the suite by an Ocean House chef, the family went to the property’s scaled-down New Year’s Eve gala, which served as their reception.

“I didn’t have to do any of the planning,” says Lyndsay. “There was this beautiful room already decorated, we were all socially distanced, and there was a band and some great food. We made that part of our time there.”

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LYNNE FERRARI AND MARK CURRIE

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ynne Ferrari and Mark Currie had already been a couple for 15 years when they decided to wed in late 2020.

As Chief of Perioperative Anesthesia at Boston Children’s Hospital—responsible, in part, for keeping patients safe from the coronavirus—Lynne was enduring a trying time professionally. Mark was doing his work as a scientist and biotech entrepreneur remotely, at their Weekapaug house.

“We just decided that it was the right time,” says Lynne. “Sometimes, with something as life-changing as Covid, people just reassess what’s important in their life.”

Mark would regularly head over to the Weekapaug Inn, and what he saw happening there gave them both the idea for where to host

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Below: The bride and groom chose the new MeetingHouse at Weekapaug Inn to host a close group of family and friends.

photography by CARLA MCELROY PHOTOGRAPHY

their ceremony. They knew they could only invite 25 people because of Covid-19 rules, but new construction at the Weekapaug Inn inspired them, because they could invite those people to a space where they would be among the first ever to make memories.

“Mark was working remotely and stayed in Weekapaug for a good deal of the spring. That’s when the new MeetingHouse structure was being built,” says Lynne. “He would go to the hot tub every day and watch the construction.

The inside is exquisite. It has vaulted ceilings, beautiful wood, there’s an incredible fireplace—

possible due to health guidelines, they hired a three-piece string quartet and served a plated dinner with drink service at socially distanced tables. Lynne requested that guests, including children, show a negative Covid-19 test to attend, and she ordered custom masks that were given as favors at every place setting.

The groom wore blue jeans and a tuxedo jacket, while the bride chose a full-length lavender Halston couture dress. They lit the dramatic fireplace for ambience and hired a fireplace valet to keep the logs going strong.

“The wedding was on a Saturday, and it

it’s a breathtaking space, even though it’s small.

It’s not like a ballroom. It’s an absolute little jewel of a building.”

With no dancing, bars or buffet service

snowed on Thursday. It was an afternoon wedding, so we had the beautiful snow outside, the sun shining—it was magical,” says Lynne.

“It turned out to be just perfect.”

SPECIAL MEMO R IES L A S T FO R E VE R WE HELP create THEM

LONG ISLAND

CO NNE C T I C U T 203.324.6222

6 3 1 . 6 43. 2848

STAMFORDTENT.COM

FALL & WINTER ANNUAL

e v e n t p h o t o g r a p h y b y C H I P R I E G E L A N D R E I N H A R D S O K O L

THE FALL & WINTER ANNUAL

Ocean House, Weekapaug Inn and Preserve Sporting Club & Residences feature a full calendar of events, gatherings and experiences for the fall and winter. Join us for some upcoming happenings, designed to create lifelong memories.

SOCIAL CALENDAR 82 OHMCOLLECTION.COM

WINE & CULINARY ARTS

For the budding wine expert and the food aficionado alike, Ocean House and Weekapaug Inn offer foodie and wine events. These yearround series offer an inside look at the farm-to-table philosophy with hands-on culinary opportunities, farm-fresh wine and beer dinners, and wine education seminars.

Brewmaster’s Dinner At Weekapaug Inn, you can enjoy New England’s bounty in season, plus ice cold beer pairings, during an immersive culinary experience. The series highlights a different local brewery at each event.

Family-style courses are expertly paired with a delicious craft beer.

Champagne & Oysters During this event, shucking instruction will be offered and oyster appetizers will be served paired with wines.

The Naturalist will also be on hand to go over the natural and human history of the native oyster.

Farm & Vine Dinner Series

Couples ring in the New Year at Ocean House.

Using fresh, seasonal ingredients from a local farm, notable chefs from across the country join forces with the Ocean House culinary team to craft exquisite three-course meals that are carefully paired with wines from distinguished wineries around the world.

From Vine to Wine Series Once a month, Ocean House hosts an exclusive wine event.

Engage with the Director of Wine Education to discuss the chosen topic and sample a selection of wines during this Saturday seminar.

In the Cellar Series Join our Food Forager and Sommelier to explore the symphonic world of food and beverage. Find out why certain combinations complement each other so well.

screened in the Screening Room, colorful cabaret performances are put on in the Drawing Room, and love songs can be heard on the Pond where guests sit under the moonlight.

Movie Nights Come one, come all!

Find your seat in the Ocean House Screening Room and enjoy the show with freshly popped popcorn and sweet treats from Below Deck.

Author Series

In the Kitchen Culinary Education Series On select Saturdays each month, join the Ocean House Food Forager for this series.

Work hands-on with members of the culinary team in the Center for Wine & Culinary Arts as you master the art of the soufflé, preserve the flavors of the season, and much more. Take home an Ocean House apron and recipes from your class.

Wine Camp Weekend With the Ocean House Director of Wine and Sommelier as your guide, take part in this hands-on seasonal experience that includes tastings, an exclusive tour of a nearby winery during harvest and an opportunity to craft your own unique blend.

Meet local authors, who will share anecdotes about their newly published memoirs and novels. Books will be available for purchase.

ART ADVENTURES

These programs encompass art education and lectures, guided tours and exhibits with a little wine sipping mixed in. On select weekends, through the Yankee Magazine Artisan in Residence Program, we invite talented local artists to showcase their work.

Guests are invited to interact with the artists, learn about their process and engage in creative activities.

MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT There are a variety of programs offered for guests at our resorts. Classic films are

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FALL & WINTER ANNUAL

OCEAN HOUSE

NATURALIST

Explore nature’s wonders with expert guidance from Weekapaug Inn’s resident naturalist. Comb the beach for treasures, identify native creatures in the salt pond or take in the beauty of a full moon with new friends. Whatever the season, the Inn offers a variety of programs and events to discover the natural beauty of our surroundings.

CELEBRATIONS & HOLIDAYS

Allow our team to take care of the details for any holiday. Join us for celebrations large and small—from Thanksgiving and Christmas to New Year’s and Valentine’s Day—and enjoy inspired cuisine, five-star service and good old-fashioned fun!

Signature Events Our most talked-about musical and culinary affairs as well as special events are not to be missed! Enjoy gourmet cuisine, musical entertainment and a spectacular setting at year-round events you’ll remember for years to come.

As we continue to maintain safety standards and follow health regulations, events are subject to change. Visit oceanhouseevents. com for the most current schedule.

PLEASE NOTE: Prices do not include tax, gratuity or any service charges.

23 OCT. WINE & CULINARY ARTS

In the Kitchen: Holiday Meal Planning

Hosting the holidays for your family or friends this year?

Master the art of preparing ahead, ensuring total success. We will cover large format meal preparation for the days leading up to a grand holiday meal.

3 p.m.; $75/person*

24 OCT. MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT

Movie Night: The Littlest Colonel

cuisine while tasting the splendor that is tequila.

3 p.m.; $75/person*

30 OCT. MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT

Thriller Fiction Panel at Ocean House Enjoy a glass of wine, light bites and a fascinating panel discussion moderated by Megan Collins, author or The Family Plot. The following authors will be on hand to discuss their books and the thriller writing process: Deborah Goodrich Royce (Ruby Falls), Luanne Rice (The Shadow Box), Wendy Walker (Don’t Look for Me), Emily Liebert (Perfectly Famous), Hank Phillippi Ryan (Her Perfect Life) and Vanessa Lillie (For the Best).

Books will be available for purchase onsite through the Savoy Bookstore.

3:30 p.m.; $25/person*

4 NOV. WINE & CULINARY ARTS

Farm + Vine Dinner

Celebrate the best of autumn’s bounty with an exquisite wine dinner in COAST. During this unforgettable evening, guest chef Isaac Olivo of Chatham Inn, Relais & Châteaux, of Cape Cod, will prepare culinary delights with the freshest ingredients from a featured farm, each dish expertly paired with wines from the Abadia Retuerta winery of Spain.

7 p.m.; $135/person*

5-7 NOV. WINE & CULINARY ARTS

Wine Camp Weekend

Winemaker Jonathan Edwards and the Ocean House Director of Wine Education host a weekend for wine enthusiasts, in

During Wine Camp Weekend, guests learn to blend their own wine.

Enjoy a luxurious viewing experience in Ocean House’s Screening Room, with plush theater seating, freshly popped popcorn and bitesized candy.

6 p.m.; $15*/person

30 OCT. WINE & CULINARY ARTS

In the Cellar: Agave & Regional Mexican Cuisine

Transport yourself from our Center for Wine & Culinary Arts to Jalisco, Mexico, and enjoy spectacular regional

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Please note: Prices do not include tax, gratuity or any service charges.

which guests take part in this hands-on wine making, winery tour and dining with the winemaker. $1,850/person*; $2,250/ couple*

12 NOV. ART ADVENTURES

Yankee Magazine Artisan in Residence: Peter Bowe Artisan Reception Join us for a special wine reception to welcome the weekend’s Artisan in Residence, Peter Bowe. Mr. Bowe will display his work and be available to discuss his weekend workshop.

5 p.m.; complimentary

13 NOV. ART ADVENTURES

Yankee Magazine Artisan in Residence: Wooden Bird Sculpting Workshop Join Peter Bowe, nationally celebrated sculptor, for a two-day workshop and learn techniques to make your own beautiful bird sculpture.

9 a.m.; $95/person*

13 NOV. WINE & CULINARY ARTS

From Vine to Wine: Wines of the Rhone Valley Why go far when you can enjoy some of the most delicious wines in the world, right here in our Center for Wine & Culinary Arts? Our wine expert walks guests through several wines from France’s Rhone Valley and shares what makes the wines from this region so noteworthy.

11 a.m.; $75/person*

FALL & WINTER ANNUAL The annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Ocean House kicks off the holiday season.

14 NOV.

In honor of Santa’s official visit to Watch Hill for the Christmas season, Ocean House invites families to join us in the Ballroom and the Drawing Room for a magical dinner with Santa Claus.

6 p.m.; $85/adult*, $35/child (ages 4-12)*, children 3 and under are complimentary

ART ADVENTURES

Up Close & Personal: How Artists Make Art + Reception Enjoy a lecture from renowned sculptor Peter Bowe, where he’ll discuss his personal journey in creating beautiful works from wood.

Enjoy complimentary coffee, tea, water and wine.

2 p.m.; complimentary

28 NOV. MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT

Movie Night: The Little Princess

Enjoy a luxurious viewing experience in Ocean House’s Screening Room, with plush theater seating, freshly popped popcorn, gelato and bite-sized candy.

6 p.m.; $15/person*

20 NOV WINE & CULINARY ARTS

In the Cellar: Thanksgiving 101

Our Director of Culinary Education and our Director of Wine have done it! This duo has cracked the code on the perfect Thanksgiving dishes and wine pairings, and they look forward to sharing these delicious combinations with you!

3 p.m.; $75/person*

PHOTOGRAPHY: CWCA AND TREE LIGHTING BY REINHARD S OKOL; WHISKY BY ©BARMALINI - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

25 NOV. CELEBRATIONS & HOLIDAYS

Thanksgiving Buffet in the Ballroom Enjoy a spectacular Thanksgiving feast in the Seaside Ballroom and Drawing Room. Savor holiday favorites that include succulent roasted turkey, creamy mashed potatoes and all the trimmings.

Seatings begin at 12 p.m.; $125/adult*, $60/child (ages 4-12)*, children 3 and under are complimentary

25 NOV. CELEBRATIONS & HOLIDAYS

5 DEC. WINE & CULINARY ARTS

From Vine to Wine: Scotch Whisky Thanksgiving Day in COAST Gather around our table with your loved ones this year. Enjoy the traditional fixings of Thanksgiving, with a five-star twist. Chef and his talented team take this iconic holiday meal to new heights, crafting an unforgettable four-course menu that you and yours will remember for years to come.

Seatings begin at 3 p.m.; $175/adult*

25 NOV. CELEBRATIONS & HOLIDAYS

Thanksgiving To-Go As another way to enjoy our Thanksgiving feast, the To-Go gourmet meal comes

with easy instructions to heat and serve. Order ahead for pick up or delivery.

27 NOV. WINE & CULINARY ARTS

In the Kitchen: Unique Root Vegetables

Tired of the usual carrots and potatoes? During this In the Kitchen class, we will focus on all the unusual root vegetables you can cook to brighten those dull winter meals. Learn to cook an assortment of vegetables, review their taste and texture, and create dishes to highlight their distinctive flavors.

3 p.m.; $75/person*

Our Sommelier shares the decadent tastes of Scotch Whisky. 11 a.m.; $65/person*

27 NOV.

5 DEC.

CELEBRATIONS & HOLIDAYS

Annual Tree Lighting

CELEBRATIONS & HOLIDAYS

The lighting of the Ocean House Christmas tree is an annual tradition that marks the beginning of the holiday season in Watch Hill.

We ask that guests bring a new toy for our toy drive.

4 p.m.

Brunch with Santa

27 NOV. CELEBRATIONS & HOLIDAYS

Dinner with Santa

Please note: Prices do not include tax, gratuity or any service charges.

Guests can sign up for a Scotch Whisky tasting.

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FALL & WINTER ANNUAL Enjoy great food, live music, unlimited sparkling wine and mimosas with the big man himself during this famous Ocean House tradition.

8 a.m. to 2 p.m.; $85/ adult*, $35/child (ages 6-12)*, children 5 and under complimentary*

10-11 DEC. CELEBRATIONS & HOLIDAYS

Santa Checks into Ocean House In the midst of all the magic leading up to Christmas, Santa checks into Ocean House for some rest and relaxation. Children and their families are invited for special one-on-one meet

and greets in his guestroom.

Spots available between 5 and 7 p.m.; $45 per appointment*, a maximum of two children per appointment.

12 DEC. CELEBRATIONS & HOLIDAYS

Brunch with Santa

Enjoy great food, live music, unlimited sparkling wine and mimosas with the big man himself during this famous Ocean House tradition.

8 a.m. to 2 p.m.; $85/ adult*, $35/child (ages 6-12)*, children 5 and under complimentary.

12 DEC. CELEBRATIONS & HOLIDAYS

Children’s

Christmas Tea with the Penguins Enjoy an afternoon of holiday-inspired cheer with family and friends over a proper tea in the ballroom with some very special guests from Mystic Aquarium.

3 p.m.; $65/adult*, $40/ child*, children 3 and under are complimentary.

12 DEC. MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT

Movie Night: Stowaway Enjoy a luxurious viewing experience in Ocean House’s Screening Room, with plush theater seating, freshly popped popcorn and bite-sized candy.

6 p.m.; $15/person*

Gingerbread designs are on display at Ocean House for the annual competition.

13 DEC. Gingerbread Village Competition Local high school culinary students compete to craft the best gingerbread creations. Explore the delightful gingerbread village they create.

6 p.m.; complimentary

15 DEC CELEBRATIONS & HOLIDAYS

Ornament Making Workshop Join us for a special ornament making class where you’ll craft ornaments to give as gifts or for your own Christmas tree.

Includes a glass of wine and light bites.

6:30 p.m.; $40/person* Santa has his own guestroom to meet and greet families.

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16 DEC.

WINE & CULINARY ARTS

Cocktails & Canapés

Impress your guests after learning how to make the best holiday appetizers and cocktails, with guidance from Ocean House’s culinary experts.

5 p.m.; $50/person*

17-18 DEC. CELEBRATIONS & HOLIDAYS

Santa Checks into Ocean House In the midst of all the magic leading up to Christmas, Santa checks into Ocean House for some rest and relaxation. Children and their families are invited for special one-on-one meet and greets in his guestroom.

Spots are available between 5 and 7 p.m.; $45 per

Please note: Prices do not include tax, gratuity or any service charges.

appointment*, a maximum of two children per appointment.

17 DEC. WINE & CULINARY ARTS

A Very Veuve Christmas: Veuve Clicquot Champagne Flight Tasting Take a festive tour through the bubbly world of Veuve Clicquot Champagne in our Center for Wine & Culinary Arts.

5:30 p.m.; $250/person*

18 DEC. CELEBRATIONS & HOLIDAYS

Children’s Christmas Party Enjoy an afternoon of holiday activities, crafts, stories, light refreshments and pictures with Santa! We

PHOTOGRAPHY: SANTA’S R OOM BY CHIP RIEGEL; ALL OTHERS BY REINHARD S OKOL

CELEBRATIONS & HOLIDAYS

FALL & WINTER ANNUAL ask that children bring an unwrapped toy for our toy drive.

11 a.m.; $35/adult*

19 DEC.

CELEBRATIONS & HOLIDAYS

PHOTOGRAPHY: CHIP RIEGEL

Brunch with Santa

Enjoy great food, live music, unlimited sparkling wine and mimosas with the big man himself during this famous Ocean House tradition.

8 a.m. to 2 p.m.; $85/ adult*, $35/child (ages 6-12)*, children 5 and under complimentary

19 DEC. WINE & CULINARY ARTS

Gingerbread House Workshop

Master the art of creating a gingerbread house with the Ocean House pastry chef and others from the culinary team.

2:30 p.m.; $50/adult*, children are complimentary

Kids of all ages enjoy the cookie decorating class.

20 DEC. WINE & CULINARY ARTS

Feast of Fishes Workshop

Under the expert guidance of our Director of Culinary Education, learn how to prepare a traditional ItalianAmerican Feast of Fishes holiday dinner.

5:30 p.m.; $85/person*

21 DEC. WINE & CULINARY ARTS

Cookie & Cupcake Decorating Class Let a little sugar bring loved ones together at our cookie and cupcake decorating workshop. Our pastry chef will help you choose from colorful icings and sprinkles and finish with chocolate and other seasonal sweets.

Each guest will leave with an Ocean House pastry box and

their creations from the day.

5 p.m.; $35/person*, $15/child (ages 4-11)*, children 3 and under are complimentary

22 DEC.

ART ADVENTURES

Cork & Canvas

Join our Director of Art Education for an evening of artistic expression, with paints, brushes and canvas provided to guests for the creation of their own beautiful painting.

Wine and cheese enhance this relaxing special event.

5 p.m.; $65/person*

23 DEC CELEBRATIONS & HOLIDAYS

Christmas in Song

Carolers, storytelling, Christmas bells and festive cheer fill the Watch Hill Chapel during this beloved community event. And don’t miss the cookies, cocoa and more! We ask that guests bring an unwrapped toy for our toy drive.

5:30 p.m.; complimentary

24 DEC. CELEBRATIONS & HOLIDAYS

Christmas Eve Feast of Fishes Dinner at COAST The holiday magic always peaks on Christmas Eve. Enjoy a spectacular fourcourse dinner, inspired by the Feast of the Fishes tradition, with optional wine pairing. Seatings begin at 5 p.m..; $175/person*, optional wine pairing available for $125/person*

25 DEC CELEBRATIONS & HOLIDAYS

The New Year’s Eve gala is a much-anticipated annual event.

Christmas Day Brunch in the Bistro The day we’ve all been waiting for is here! Celebrate with Christmas brunch in the Bistro with delicious food, live music and unlimited festive drinks—a perfect way to enjoy the holidays. Seatings available 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; $95/adult*, $25/child ages 4 to 12*, children 3 and under are complimentary

25 DEC CELEBRATIONS & HOLIDAYS

Christmas Day at COAST

off this special day of celebration. Seatings available 6 to 9 p.m.; $175/ person*, optional wine pairing available for $125 person*

31 DEC. CELEBRATIONS & HOLIDAYS

New Year’s Eve Gala Celebrate the end of 2021 and the arrival of 2022 with our festive celebration and midnight toast. We ask that this event be enjoyed by guests 21 and older. 7:30 p.m. to 1 a.m.; $145/person*

An exquisite four-course dinner at COAST caps

Please note: Prices do not include tax, gratuity or any service charges.

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WEEKAPAUG INN As we continue to maintain safety standards and follow health regulations, events are subject to change. Visit weekapauginnevents. com for the most current schedule.

PLEASE NOTE: Prices do not include tax, gratuity or any service charges.

19 OCT. NATURALIST

Harvest Moon Paddle There is something wistful and romantic about moonrise and there are few better places to see it than from the Inn, which looks east down the salt pond.

Paddle from our dock to greet the rising moon from a remote stretch of beach,

enjoy a glass of sparkling wine and then paddle home across placid waters under the moon’s silvery light.

5 p.m.; $30/guest*, $40/ non-hotel guest**

23 OCT. WINE & CULINARY ARTS

Champagne & Oysters

Enjoy oyster appetizers alongside hand-picked sparkling wine pairings, and discuss why certain wines pair well with these delectable mollusks. Our Naturalist will also be on hand to explain the natural and human history of the native oyster.

5:30 p.m.; $60/person*

31 OCT. NATURALIST

Weekapaug’s Naturalist Series: Haunted Westerly The town of Westerly was first settled by English

colonists in 1661. Come join us for a brisk guided walk through downtown Westerly, led by Captain Teddy, and learn about some of the souls that left this earth hundreds of years ago, but still hang around. Costumes are encouraged! 2 p.m.; $30/guest*, $40/non-hotel guest*

The Inn hosts Harvest Moon outings.

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6-7 NOV. NATURALIST

Seal Days

As the days shorten and the temperatures drop, harbor seals return to the lagoon for winter. Ride aboard the Inn’s skiff as you scout the waters off the back lawn for seals on the rocks. 1 to 5 p.m.; $15 guest*, $25 non-hotel guest*

Please note: Prices do not include tax, gratuity or any service charges.

21 NOV. NATURALIST

Weekapaug’s Naturalist Series: Turkey Trot Weekapaug’s version of the classic Turkey Trot will take you on a 4-mile walk (some may race) through Weekapaug, expertly guided

by Captain Teddy, to learn the fascinating history of this

PHOTOGRAPHY: MOON ©JOSEPH KIRS CH - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; OYSTERS ©MAKSIM SHEBEKO - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

Guests can learn which sparkling wines pair best with oysters.

FALL & WINTER ANNUAL area. Return to the Inn for hot cocoa afterwards! 3 p.m.; $30/guest*, $40/non-hotel guest*

Seatings available 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; $68/adult*, $25/ child*, children 3 and under are complimentary

28 NOV.

24 DEC.

CELEBRATIONS & HOLIDAYS

CELEBRATIONS & HOLIDAYS

Thanksgiving Day Famly-Style Dinner at The Restaurant

PHOTOGRAPHY: SANTA CONTRIBUTED; FISH ©JOSHUA RESNICK - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

A family-style, three-course dinner is a wonderful way to celebrate a holiday meant to be shared with loved ones. Take pleasure in a meal created by the Weekapaug Inn culinary team and indulge in a mix of traditional favorites and creative interpretations of classics. Seating available 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; $85/ adult*, optional wine pairing $50/person*, $37/child ages 4-12*, children 3 and under are complimentary

Feast of the Fishes Christmas Eve Dinner A tradition of ItalianAmerican families, the Feast of the Fishes is now a treasured Weekapaug Inn custom. Enjoy a sumptuous three-course meal featuring

the area’s freshest seafood and produce served familystyle. Seatings available 5 to 8 p.m.; $85/adult*, optional wine pairing available for $50/person*, $35/child ages 4-12*, children 3 and under are complimentary

25 DEC..

4-12*, children 3 and under are complimentary

CELEBRATIONS & HOLIDAYS

Christmas Dinner at The Restaurant The countdown is over.

Christmas is finally here! Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with a multicourse meal.

Seatings available 4:30 to 8 p.m.; $75/adult*, optional wine pairing available for $85/ person*, $35/child ages

31 DEC. CELEBRATIONS & HOLIDAYS

New Year’s Eve Celebration Come together to bid 2021 farewell and welcome 2022 at the Inn, with dinner and a champagne toast at midnight. 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. cocktails, 7 to 8:30 p.m. dinner, 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. entertainment; $125/person*

Santa makes an appearance for brunch at the Inn.

12 DEC. CELEBRATIONS & HOLIDAYS

Brunch with Santa

Spend a Sunday at the Inn, filled with holiday cheer!

Join us with friends and family to enjoy a delicious brunch, with Santa on hand from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Seatings available 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; $68/adult*, $25/ child*, children 3 and under are complimentary

19 DEC. CELEBRATIONS & HOLIDAYS

Brunch with Santa

Spend a Sunday at the Inn, filled with holiday cheer!

Join us with friends and family to enjoy a delicious brunch, with Santa on hand from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Please note: Prices do not include tax, gratuity or any service charges.

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SOCIAL CALENDAR

For 2022, Ocean House Collection has a host of seasonal events and fun happenings in store for you! Please check our websites for the most updated calendar. Plus, follow us on social media to see the latest and greatest news and photos.

THE PRESERVE

WEEKAPAUG INN

Maker’s Mark Hobbit House Dining Experience

Pasta Night and Movie Night at Weekapaug Inn!

Scavenger Hunt that entices the art hunters with a special prize.

OCEAN HOUSE Ocean House Art Adventures & Experiences

PHOTOGRAPHY: PASTA ©MELICA - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; FILM REELS ©MAKSYM YEMELYANOV - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; WATERCOLORS ©CIPARISS - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; ALL OTHERS BY CHIP RIEGEL

Signature Family Sunday Pasta Night Every Sunday Night through May Seatings available 5 to 9 p.m.

Cozy up to the Inn on select Sundays for a three-course shared family-style menu, with fresh homemade pastas, raviolis and risotto. The menu changes each week, starting with a salad and bread course. Guests can choose their delicious pasta mains. The meal concludes with delectable sweets to pass around the table. A Wines by the Glass menu is available upon request. $45/adult*, $35/child* (50% off children ages 9-12), complimentary 2 courses from kids’ menu for children 8 and under

Cinema Under the Stars Snuggled under heated blankets, guests enjoy family films and pond views at Weekapaug Inn’s Cinema Under the Stars experience.

Most weekends from the holiday season through spring, moviegoers can watch Christmas classics such as It’s a Wonderful Life and Home Alone, as well as fan favorites like Back to the Future. The gourmet selections include truffle popcorn and bento boxes, and there’s even a cocktail thermos menu and wine offerings. Surrounded by twinkly pines, string lights and lanterns, this is no ordinary movie night.

Space is limited, so sign up early for this season’s hot ticket under the starry night sky. To check the movie lineup and purchase tickets, visit weekapauginnevents. com.

For a one-of-a-kind dining experience, try the Maker’s Mark Hobbit House at the Preserve for a lunch or dinner you’ll never forget.

Guests are treated to an upscale grilled menu and fine bourbon pairings, while enjoying a truly magical setting inspired by author J.R.R. Tolkien’s fantasy novels. Nestled into hillside boulders, the two Hobbit House getaways are surrounded by lush landscapes with tree trunks incorporated into the architecture. After dinner, unwind around the fire pit under the stars.

For pricing and more details, visit preservesportingclub. com.

One of the top art hotels in the country, Ocean House features an incredible collection of over 250 pieces of art. Guests can enjoy interactive experiences, lectures, special events and tours of museum-worthy exhibits.

Art Curator Tours Book in advance for a personal tour of the permanent and rotating exhibits with Lisa Szaro, Resident Curator & Director of Art Education.

Self-Guided Audio Tours Peruse at your own pace, while learning about major pieces, how they were acquired and background on the artists.

Scavenger Hunt For children, there’s a selfguided Mortimer Mouse

Please note: Prices do not include tax, gratuity or any service charges.

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Private Art Watercolor Lessons Get inspired and pick up a paint brush! Take watercolor lessons in a one-on-one or small group session. Art materials are provided; no experience required. For adults 18 or older. $300/ person* plus tax & gratuity (schedule in advance) Cork & Canvas Sample local wine and cheese, while creating art with small canvases, brushes and paints. This event is for groups in collaboration with the Wine Director.

Yankee Magazine Artist in Residence Program Featuring notable artists in September through April, this program celebrates the arts, fosters creativity and advances art education.

The artisans interact with guests through workshops, discussions and other

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photography by CHIP RIEGEL

“ L i f e i s a M A G I C A L J O U R N E Y, so travel endlessly to unfold its profound a n d h e a r t t o u c h i n g b e a u ty.”

— D E B A S I S H

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M R I D H A

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