Spring, the season of renewal and reawakening, is a time when nature comes back to life, as does our very essence. Our editorial, “Bare Beginnings,” reflects that breath of fresh air and focuses on the idea of new experiences. We captured a dreamy and whimsical ambiance through styles that featured neutral colors, flowing silk, dysfunctional tailoring, and oversized garments. Sustainability is receiving much attention in the fashion industry, and we made a conscious effort to use clothing only from consignment and thrift stores for our Spring/ Summer 2019 trends piece, “Sustainabilities.” The notion of sustainability truly embodies this overarching idea of a fresh start, as its purpose is to give clothing a new life. As my POLISHED journey ends, I look forward to the next voyage I begin. I am incredibly thankful for all of the opportunities POLISHED has given me, especially the chance to serve as creative director. These past four years have completely shaped me into the individual I am today, and I could not imagine where my life would be without this publication. As I pass the directorship back to Cassandra Moisan for her final year, I am filled with excitement as I anticipate the innovative issues she will create.
Publisher Lasell College Founder Richard Bath Creative Director Ashley Burke Managing Editor Aine Hawthorne Associate Managing Editors Victoria Capone Noor Lobad Art Director Emma Helstrom Associate Art Directors Daisy Bocanegra Taylor Smith Art Editor Margaret Brochu Editors Hannah Amorello Skylar Diamond Morgan Trumbull Lead Stylist Eunice Bruno Stylists Ava Aguilar Emma Ingenohl Madison Paloski Emma Pereira
This issue of POLISHED centers on the ideas of sustainability and new beginnings. In a world where we are becoming more deeply aware of the environmental impact of our actions and more concerned with ethical conduct, my goal was to assemble a list of places that offer an alternative to mainstream, fast fashion businesses and chains. These shops help us to lead more environmentally conscious and ethical lifestyles and develop practices that we can pass on to our peers and to future generations. The sustainability theme is echoed in pieces such as “a second-hand story” and “Reptilian Revolution,” which bring to life venues where old clothes become brand-new garments. “Freshly Follain” honors entrepreneurs who support the ideas of clean living and mindful buying. In these articles, we learn about leaders who pull from the past to build a life full of meaningful individuality and distinctive morality. I would like to thank Associate Managing Editors Victoria Capone and Noor Lobad. Although I have cherished my time with POLISHED, I must say farewell as I move on to a new beginning of my own during a semester abroad. This is not goodbye forever, though, and I hope to once again become a part of the POLISHED team when I return. As I depart, I leave Noor Lobad as managing editor. I know that she will be a credit to the magazine, and I wish her the very best of luck.
Editorial Photographer Margaret Brochu Editorial Makeup Marissa Spagnoli Models Christian Birkenberger - Model Club Inc Allison Cabrera - Maggie Inc Jada Dubois - Model Club Inc Media Directors Grace Dubovick Rachel Stankus Karlianne Wilson Social Media Team Ava Aguilar Alyssa Butkiewicz Sophia Cannata Madison Cormier Abby Detrick Brianna Doody Simone Landry Kathleen Mansfield Briana Muller Ashli Roberts Madison Whiteley Kelsey Willett Blog Editor Avery Stankus Blog Team Francesca Carr
1844 Commonwealth Avenue, Newton, MA 02466 | lasell.edu polishedfashion.com | polishedblogger.wordpress.com Polished Magazine | @bostonpolished @bostonpolished
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Faculty Advisors Lynn Blake Stephen Fischer Becky Kennedy
Writer: Noor Lobad Graphic Designer: Ashley Burke
Writer: Hannah Amorello Graphic Designer: Victoria Capone
Writer: Skylar Diamond Graphic Designer: Jack Margolis
Writer: Victoria Capone Graphic Designer: Abby Detrick
Writer: Aine Hawthorne Graphic Designer: Emma Helstrom
Writer: Alanis Perez-Rivera Graphic Designer: Emma Helstrom
Writer: Pavel Zlatin Graphic Designer: Hunter Spencer
Writer: Victoria Capone Graphic Designer: Margaret Brochu
Writers: Jessica Spillane and Noor Lobad Graphic Designer: Taylor Smith
Writer: Marissa Spagnoli Graphic Designer: Daisy Bocanegra
Retailers: Arteli, Best Dressed, Global Thrift, Madison Ave, NATHALIAJMAG, Revolve Boutiques, WhiteaAnnie Makeup: Marissa Spagnoli Photography: Margaret Brochu Location: Crane Beach
Writer: Raegan Cleary Graphic Designer: Ashley Burke
Writer: Jami Pelosi Graphic Designer: Daisy Bocanegra
The mission of POLISHED Magazine is to promote and highlight the diverse and vibrant culture and fashion scene of Boston and the surrounding area.
POLISHED Magazine is produced by the Lasell College School of Fashion with graphic design support from the Graphic Design League at Lasell College. Visit us at graphicdesignleague.com
Allison Blazer: Global Thrift Belt: Global Thrift Earrings: Our own Special Appearance by Coyote the Horse
POLISHED Magazine is printed by Wing Press - beau@wingpress.com
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n this day and age when trends die off and are replaced with new ones in an instant, maintaining a fashionable and up-to-date wardrobe while on a budget has become an increasingly elusive concept. Classic and all-too-real episodes of “Sex and the City” depict style icon Carrie Bradshaw opting to put her financial security on pause in order to own the latest pair of Manolo Blahniks. This example may be extreme, but the issue behind it is one many modern-day women can relate to. Fortunately, South Boston-based contemporary consignment shop Covet is challenging the age-old notion that being stylish must invariably go hand in hand with breaking the bank. Hanadi Hamzeh, a former medical school student turned entrepreneur, founded Covet and has turned it into a pioneer in the high-end and contemporary consignment wave that is steadily bringing tangibility to the phrase “fashion for all.” Before opening Covet in 2014, Hamzeh spent some time running an eBay store and working as an associate at a consignment shop where she acquired retail experience and an understanding of the consignment business. Intent on catering to the needs of the modernday woman, Hamzeh has successfully built a store that fulfills customers’ demands for both fashionable and affordable options. “We have luxury pieces in the store, but what we mainly sell is contemporary, meaning everything from fast fashion like Forever 21 and H&M, to those mid-scale brands like Rag & Bone and Diane Von Furstenberg. That’s how the modern girl dresses; she may have a Louis Vuitton bag, but her dress is most likely from Zara,” said Hamzeh. As modern consumers are continually turning away from traditional shopping destinations such as malls and department stores, in search
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of more affordable and environmentally sustainable options, secondhand stores have begun to rapidly grow in popularity. Hamzeh credits her acumen in curating her merchandise to her ability to understand and relate to her target market; this distinct vision sets Covet apart from other consignment stores. “Some consignment shops lean too heavily on brands, whereas we lean heavily on style. I think customers appreciate that because, as brandloyal as we all are, most of us would pick style over brand any day. You would rather have that fun, trendy top from a brand you’ve never heard of than, say, a Diane von Furstenberg that’s 10 years old,” said Hamzeh. When it comes to acquiring luxury goods from brands such as Louis Vuitton and Saint Laurent, Covet offers consignors a competitive 60 percent cut of the final selling price to encourage owners of such items to consign with Hamzeh. With respect to the accumulation of stock, Covet prefers items that are in season and, of course, in good condition but is otherwise prepared to give most items a chance. “Our only hard-and-fast rule is we don’t pick fur or exotic skins for ethical reasons. We’re an ethical store; we don’t judge, but it’s not something we participate in. Faux fur all day!” said Hamzeh. With an interior that features potted plants, delicate display cases, and white walls carefully sprinkled with paintings, Covet embodies a chic and elegant aesthetic and has perfected the art of giving customers the experience of shopping in an upscale boutique, while in fact they are browsing a consigned collection.
“I love that the name ‘Covet’ doesn’t sound like a consignment shop. From the outside to the interior, I don’t want it to feel like a consignment shop. That includes the name, the logo, and the look; the clothes are used, but it doesn’t mean the store has to feel that way,” said Hamzeh. Another aspect of Covet that distinguishes them from other consignment stores is that it provides a service by which parties of 10 or more can opt to host fundraisers at the store; in turn, Covet will donate 20 percent of the night’s sales to the cause. “It’s nice because it helps to bring a new audience to the store while also giving us the opportunity to donate money to a cause for one of our customers, which is really cool,” said Hamzeh. Although Covet is not focused on delving into the realm of online consignment any time soon, it does have an active Instagram page where Hamzeh posts newly consigned items and allows customers to buy them via direct message. In terms of plans for the future, Hamzeh is
in the process of opening a second store in Bunker Hill sometime in April. This long-anticipated step is an important milestone towards achieving Covet’s ultimate goal: becoming a chain. “My goal is to continue to expand; I’d like to eventually have at least 30 stores. For now, I’ll have two stores and that’ll bring on its own challenges, but slowly yet surely, we will continue to grow. The goal is constant growth,” said Hamzeh.
Photos by Becca LeBlanc
In an era that has thus far been dominated by fast fashion retailers, Hamzeh has displayed an uncompromising commitment to changing the way people shop by providing more realistic and affordable alternatives while simultaneously extending the life cycle of apparel items. This approach, which is equal parts bold and progressive, is bound to usher in a redefined era of shopping for money-minded fashionistas everywhere. @covetboston; www.covetboston.com
Noor Lobad 5
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ashion is a universal form of self-expression that has been a staple across cultures for hundreds of years. Not only has business owner Alaina Ron made fashion her livelihood, but she is also infusing her work with her passion for vintage clothing. Read along to follow Ron’s journey as she created Lady of Lizard, a vintage clothing and accessory shop focusing on high-end statement pieces that can go in any woman’s wardrobe. Skylar Diamond: Why did you start Lady of Lizard? Alaina Ron: I’ve always loved vintage clothing. When I was in high school, I opted for vintage because it fit my style; it was the way I loved to express myself, a way to stand out. As I started really getting into fashion and designers, I started shopping vintage and consignment even more, in order to afford luxury pieces. Now, I’m more interested in the sustainability aspect of vintage and consignment shops. The clothing and textile industry is the world’s second largest polluter, so shopping vintage can reduce your carbon footprint. It’s a way to rebel against fast fashion, where much of the inventory ends up in landfills, and workers don’t get paid fair wages. SD: What is the history behind the business? Where did the name come from? AR: The name has a funny backstory: When my grandmother immigrated here from Greece when she was 16 or 17 years old, people would ask her, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” and she would answer, “I want to be a lady of lizard.” She meant “lady of leisure,” so something got lost in translation, but I’ve always loved that story and it really resonated with me. I like that name for a vintage shop for many reasons. Clothing is kind of like a chameleon; it can change the way you feel and look. Also, the leisure aspect kind of conveys the luxe vintage statement pieces that I have in my collection. I handpick all of my pieces; I go all over to estate sales, online, thrift stores, and vintage collectors who sell personally to me and handpick everything in my collection.
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SD: On your website, you describe the Lady of Lizard collection as “classic, curated and contemporary clothing for a lifestyle of lizard.” What does this mean? AR: I was playing around with taglines. Originally, my idea with that was almost like the four C’s of diamonds [cut, color, clarity, and carat] but the four C’s of vintage. Vintage clothing is classic, but it can also be contemporary and fit in with today’s trends and what people are wearing now. It doesn’t have to invoke that old-fashioned feeling; it can be new and fresh. The lifestyle of lizard is like the lifestyle of leisure, but with a twist. I think clothing should have a sense of humor; it doesn’t have to be so buttoned up. SD: Can you describe the Lady of Lizard team? AR: It’s just me right now. I started about six months ago and it’s always been a dream of mine to open a vintage shop, and I’m starting slow and seeing where it gets me. So far, I’ve just done pop-ups all around Boston, but soon I’ll be going to New York for my first pop-up. My husband has been super supportive. He’s the one who takes all the pictures for my Instagram, and he’s been trying to convince me to do this for years. SD: What is your source of inspiration when looking for a new piece? AR: When I started, my inspiration was Fran Fine from “The Nanny.” I love her style and the sense of humor in her style, so I often channel her when I’m in a thrift shop, at an estate sale, or just looking around for pieces. I also really love Ali MacGraw from “Love Story.” She has this beautiful, classic style, so both of those merge together as my style muses. SD: What makes your merchandise appeal to customers of all ages? AR: I think it’s because the clothing speaks to a wide range of people and is super versatile. A classic vintage trench coat can be worn many ways; it’s ageless in that way. Some of my funkier pieces skew a little bit younger, but I always have a few of those classic pieces that will fit into any woman’s wardrobe, no matter what age. I also think there’s no such thing as dressing for your age. Dress however makes you feel comfortable and great.
SD: Does Lady of Lizard collaborate with any other organizations/ people? Why/why not? AR: Some of my most successful pop-ups to date have been with other women-owned businesses like Ouimillie, Paridaez, and other vintage sellers in Boston. Once I got into this world, I realized how many women were doing this as well and how we all have a slightly different point of view, but when we all come together, it really creates something beautiful. There’s room for everyone to collaborate and become one force. SD: What is the most challenging part of running the company? AR: The social media aspect is where I’ve had the biggest learning curve and the most room to grow. Also, I always find it challenging to get the pricing just right on vintage and consignment because it involves a ton of research. It takes me two to three hours on average to find each piece I add to my collection. Factoring in transportation time, time in the store, and time spent searching on the web, a lot of work is put into it. SD: Was there a time you thought Lady of Lizard might not succeed? AR: I think that every day. As a business owner, there’s always some element of self-doubt that runs through your head every day. Some days, you’re on a real high; then other days, you’re like, “Oh my gosh, what did I get myself into? Why did I quit my job and begin this?” It’s all about pushing through those times. SD: What is the most rewarding part of the job? AR: Interacting with people, finding them those special pieces, and seeing them light up when they try them on. There’s a spark that comes from finding a one-of-a-kind piece that’s in your size, price point, and style. It feels like fate, that connection, and I love seeing other people experience that because I know that feeling personally. SD: Where do you see Lady of Lizard going in the next 10 years? AR: I hope to own my own shop in Boston because I love Boston; I’ve been here all my life. In the next few years, I hope to grow the pop-up business. If I could do pop-ups in warm-weather places all winter, that would be nice. SD: What is Lady of Lizard’s message to the world? Photos courtesy of Sophia Pushkin
AR: Vintage clothing is a sustainable and affordable option for women. Clothing can be fun, exciting, and whimsical, and you can express yourself through clothing any way you want to. @ladyoflizard; www.ladyoflizard.com
Skylar Diamond
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Glossy silk fabrics and pastels glide into the everyday wardrobe in this season’s trend report. Confident oranges shine through the soft tints, and prints vivaciously mix. The once-hidden and private parts of the wardrobe are on display as lingerie becomes an outerwear staple. Thrifted finds and consignment store gems reflect the upsurge in commitment to sustainability in S/S ’19 and combine playfully to create edgy and modern-yet-retro looks. Individuality is flaunted through repurposed layers of fluidity that form a statement of fresh renewal.
Aine Hawthorne
Clothing courtesy of Global Thrift, Madison Ave, and Revolve Photography by Corinne Ciraldo and Matthew Searth Models: Holly Aronhalt, Ava Homsey, Dylan Mullen, and Ashaad Tillman
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rick walls, dimmed lighting, brown leather furniture, and a bar offering whiskey and bourbon— it’s not a trendy bar in the Seaport, but a made-to-measure formalwear store in downtown Boston. 9Tailors was founded over 10 years ago by Samantha Shih, a suit and tailoring enthusiast. Specializing in custom-made menswear, 9Tailors offers customers a wide variety of suits, dress shirts, blazers, pants, and outerwear, as well as tuxedos, bridesmaids’ dresses, and uniforms. 9Tailors uses only premium imported fabrics, and all of its pieces are crafted in a family-owned tailoring workshop in Hong Kong. After earning her bachelor’s degree from Brown University in East Asian studies and political science, Shih was introduced to the art of tailoring when she lived in China from 2005 to 2007. During her time in China, Shih had a tailor make a number of clothing items for her. According to Shih, being able to control the fabrics and designs was a great comfort to her, and she sought out ways in which she could incorporate this degree of choice and control into her own work. “When I made the decision to move back to Boston, I was looking for opportunities that would combine my creative spirit, business experience, and my desire to travel back to China. I couldn’t find any jobs like that, so I decided to make one myself. That’s when the idea dawned on me to bring affordable custom tailoring to Boston,” said Shih. As a small, high-end, and entirely custom business, 9Tailors is not a store one would typically stumble upon in Boston; however, with dress shirts ranging from 85 to 240 dollars and two-piece suits starting at 625 dollars, 9Tailors has successfully addressed consumers’ long-unfulfilled need for affordable bespoke tailoring. On February 21, 2019, 9Tailors launched its SuitsMe campaign, a declaration of body positivity that was punctuated by a series of milestones for the brand, including the launch of their new womenswear line. According to Kyle Undag, the store’s showroom coordinator and PR specialist, promoting diversity has always been at the forefront of 9Tailors’ agenda. As a made-to-measure clothing brand, 9Tailors not only strives to promote body acceptance but sees this as an integral part of what the store does. “Since you were born, you have to fix your life to fit in and conform, and clothing is one way of doing that. At 9Tailors, for once, life fits you,” said Undag. Until recently, 9Tailors did not offer womenswear; however, Stephanie Muñoz, style consultant at 9Tailors and creator of the styling company Mpoze, created new silhouettes for the store’s women’s collection as well as a brand-new stylebook. The store’s stylebook serves as a guideline
for the customers. Since the store is purely custom, the purpose of the stylebook is to give customers an idea of the silhouettes, fabrics, and fits the store has to offer. “When I first started working at 9Tailors, we did a womenswear piece every two months or so, but it was pretty much like a men’s cut for women,” said Undag. The SuitsMe campaign also included several promotional events. The first one was a series of photo shoots featuring the store’s clients. The photos were accompanied by each client’s thoughts on body image and its importance. Other events included consultations, as well as cigar and game nights. The main attraction of the campaign, however, was its launch party, which took place on February 21. The guest list included the store’s clients, industry professionals, artists, members of the press, and friends of 9Tailors. According to Undag, the purpose of the launch party was to kick off the campaign and share with the public all the progress that the store had made. SuitsMe was 9Tailors’ first major campaign, but Shih says there will be many more in the future. Although 9Tailors’ only location is in Boston, Shih has been exploring the idea of expanding the showroom, perhaps even to another city. In the meantime, 9Tailors will continue to bring the age-old tradition of personal tailoring back to the people of Boston. @9Tailors; www.9tailors.com
Pavel Zlatin
Photos Courtesy of 9Tailors and Illustrations by Hunter Spencer
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ove over, Urban Outfitters; Shake the Tree has planted its roots in Boston and is here to stay. With an indie aesthetic and goods ranging from clothing and accessories to food, Shake the Tree fulfills all types of unique fashion and lifestyle needs. Working with both local creators and big corporations, owner Marian Klausner has created the store of her dreams and filled it with a quirky collection of the things that she loves best. Initially beginning her professional life as a lawyer, Klausner soon realized that law was not the right path for her. After spending nearly a decade of her life as an attorney, Klausner jumped at the opportunity for a new beginning when a For Rent sign popped up on a small store in Brookline 20 years ago. Although she was not in a financial position to run a business, Klausner called up any designers or crafters she knew, inquiring if they would like to have their merchandise displayed in her store. Because of this unique business approach, Klausner called her store “the physical Etsy,” although her launch predated the online phenomenon. Shake the Tree remained in Brookline for 10 years, selling only handmade items generally crafted locally. In 2004, she decided to move out of the small store and venture to the North End in order to be closer to downtown Boston. The store was completely reinvented after the move, when Klausner began to sell clothing and incorporate more collectibles like cookbooks and perfumes. Other than one small costume jeweler, there were no other shops around; instead, restaurants and delis dominated the North End business scene. Klausner stated that keeping her eye out for new trends helps her stay in business. She remains true to her brand but is always on the lookout for new aesthetics. Changing the color of the walls, buying new display tables, and switching up the layout of the store can attract new customers as they are walking by. She likes to keep her store fresh and up to date, yet she stays true to her roots and continues to sell items made by local designers and artists, along with the cookbooks and clothing that she sources from larger companies. The North End may have a reputation as a bustling tourist location, but many people live and work there as well. “It’s a busy, vibrant neighborhood; there’s lot of people in the demographic that I was aiming for who live here and walk by here. There’s tourists; there’s young professionals who work here; there’s lots of people who work downtown and come here to eat, and people in Greater Boston who just come down here to visit. I literally was one of the first stores on this whole block,” said Klausner.
Photos by Margaret Brochu
Shake the Tree may have been one of the first stores on the block, but it was not the last to open. Klausner’s ambitious move has created a ripple effect, with almost ten new retail owners following in her footsteps and opening in the area.
Klausner may have been a lawyer with no retail or business experience, but she likes to remind herself that she is “kickass.” “I realized that if I put my mind to something, I can actually accomplish whatever I want…I joke with people that the secret to success is having exceedingly low expectations, so if I made 100 dollars, it would be like, ‘Oh my God, I made 100 dollars,’” said Klausner. Klausner is not usually a risk-taker, especially when money is involved, and she knew she would not lose much if her store did not make it. She did not invest too much in the store; the rent was extremely affordable, and, since the products were donated, she spent money only on decorations. Klausner wanted to enjoy herself and see how her shop performed. As it turned out, this minimal risk resulted in great success for Klausner. Once she moved to a location with ample foot traffic, Klausner had customers from all over the country exclaiming that there were no other stores like hers. Shake the Tree is thriving at a time when brick-and-mortar corporations and shops are starting to fail due to severe online competition. Shopping at Klausner’s store is a unique and friendly experience, one that draws on the senses and certainly cannot be found online. When Klausner talks about her “Shake Fam” employees, there is an overwhelming sense of family and love. Once people become a part of the Fam, they are in it forever. “I have people who have worked here for years, let’s say all through college, and then they get their first job, but let’s say they still want to come in on Saturdays, and they do that for a couple of years. I have a few people who are on call and come in just once or twice a year if I’m jammed, and they’ll still come to our gatherings and everything. There’s a sense when you work in a mom-and-pop shop that you feel loved and taken care of, and that your opinion is valued. It’s holistically a different experience with mom-and-pops—from the shopper to the staffers, to everything,” said Klausner. Although Klausner’s days can be jam-packed with helping customers and unloading or restocking inventory, as well as completing other day-to-day tasks, the store is more than worth it to her. Seeing customers come in and buy a one-ofa-kind piece that they love makes her heart full. What began as the most substantial risk of her life resulted in Klausner’s realization of her vision. She was able to fulfill her true passion for creating happiness, through great products and a memorable experience for every member of her Shake Fam. @shakethetreeboston; www.shakethetreeboston.com
Jessica Spillane and Noor Lobad
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Christian (Top) Robe: NATHALIAJMAG Top: Our own Pants: Global Thrift Allison (Bottom) Dress: NATHALIAJMAG
Jada Top: NATHALIAJMAG Pants: Revolve Earrings: Our own
Christian Blazer: Global Thrift Top: WhiteaAnnie Shorts: Global Thrift Belt: Global Thrift Boots: Global Thrift
Jada (Left) Top: NATHALIAJMAG Skirt: WhiteaAnnie Chains: Madison Ave Allison (Right) Top: Our own Bottoms: Our own Earrings: Our own
Christian (Left) Jacket: NATHALIAJMAG Top: Global Thrift Trousers: Our own Necklaces: Our own Jada (Right) Top: NATHALIAJMAG Pants: NATHALIAJMAG Earrings: Best Dressed
Allison Top: NATHALIAJMAG Pants: NATHALIAJMAG Earrings: Best Dressed
Jada Top: NATHALIAJMAG Skirt: WhiteaAnnie Chains: Madison Ave
Jada Dress: WhiteaAnnie Earrings: Best Dressed
Allison (Left) Top: Our own Corset: Global Thrift Pants: Madison Ave Earrings: Our own Bracelets: Madison Ave Purse: Arteli Christian (Right) Blazer: Global Thrift Top: WhiteaAnnie Shorts: Global Thrift Belt: Global Thrift
Christian Jacket: Ralph Lauren via Global Thrift Pants: Ralph Lauren via Global Thrift Boots: Global Thrift Brooch: Madison Ave
Allison Dress: NATHALIAJMAG Belt: Madison Ave Shoes: Madison Ave
Photo courtesy of Alyssa Stevens
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ne will never influence the world by trying to be like it, but in the age of the internet and social media influencers, trying to set oneself apart from the crowd can be challenging. For Alyssa Stevens, the mind behind the Boston-based blog The A-Lyst, authenticity is the best predictor of success. The blogger uses her career experience, love of writing, and extensive knowledge of Boston to create a one-of-akind guide to the city. Stevens, a Connecticut native, ventured to Boston for college and earned a degree in journalism from Northeastern University. This sparked a love for creative expression, which would later inspire her blogging endeavors. Post-graduation, Stevens worked at several marketing firms in the city, which furthered her love of media and Boston culture. Through her work at Regan Communications and Marlo Marketing, Stevens was able to develop a foundational skill set in content creation and combine her love of Boston with her career.
“Let’s say the Instagram platform changes. If anything changes from that, it will affect your business. The blog is your backup. From the PR perspective, we always look to see if influencers we work with have blogs, because it adds value to the brand,” said Stevens. Stevens has been named a lifestyle expert by New England Cable News, which showcases her DIY posts on their newscasts. The short videos exhibit Stevens in her element: making simple Halloween costumes, hosting holiday parties, or creating festive decorations. Stevens always had an eye for DIYs but quickly recognized their ability to set her apart from the crowd. Stevens has even had the opportunity to partner with the NECN to bring her love of DIYs to the public.
“In the summer of 2016, I decided that I was going to start the blog. It was something that I had always thought about doing and then just decided to take a chance on it. It focuses on all things Boston, from where you can get the best frozen cocktail in the summer, to cozy fireplace restaurants, to instagrammable spots,” said Stevens.
Stevens is a fashionista in her own right and has attracted most attention through her impeccable style posts. She combines luxury items and moderately priced pieces to hook her audience. Stevens shops at a variety of stores, including Saks Fifth Avenue, J. Crew, and Ann Taylor, all places that highlight her chic taste. Her versatile style is what attracts an audience, but her willingness to offer advice is what maintains her following. Stevens’ most valuable piece of fashion advice is that the best investment is handbags and shoes, acknowledging their timelessness and ability to add an extra layer to one’s presentation.
Though Stevens designed a platform that serves as a guide to all things trendy in Boston, her interests go beyond local hotspots. On The A-Lyst, one will be mesmerized by fashion trends, Stevens’ travel adventures, and savvy DIYs. For Stevens, it is important that The A-Lyst remain consistent with her interests.
“This has been my philosophy: Invest in really great handbags and shoes, and then the rest you can do whatever the heck you want with. When you meet someone for the first time, at least for me, I always notice their handbag and then their shoes. So that’s what I spend most of my money on: in terms of fashion, the classics,” said Stevens.
Even though The A-Lyst acts as a hybrid medium between Stevens’ career and her personal interests, she does not shy away from the challenges that come with a busy schedule. From a nine-to-five job to after-hours photo shoots, Stevens balances both facets of her life through organization and scheduling.
Stevens understands that what makes great style is the ability to find great fashion anywhere. She is constantly finding inspiration in local shops such as Covet, Flock, Holiday, and Shake the Tree. Stevens’ love for the city of Boston is what defines her blog. While her travel posts are visually appealing, Stevens’ deep appreciation for the city is the quality that sets her apart from others in her field.
Photo courtesy of Alyssa Stevens
“I wrote a blog piece this morning and I’ll probably shoot it tomorrow on my lunch break, and then I’ll edit it after work once I get the photos back. It’s a little bit chaotic, but I would say that if it’s really something that you want to do, then you make the time for it,” said Stevens. Even in the face of these challenges, Stevens finds time to travel. Perusing The A-Lyst, readers can explore all of Stevens’ posts about her travel adventures. From Nantucket to Quebec, Stevens makes sure to keep her readers in the know, even when she is far from Boston. In the age of Instagram, most bloggers have switched from written blogs to photo blogs in order to connect with their audience. Stevens is no different: She utilizes Instagram to engage with her followers but finds that at the end of the day, her blog is what garners the most traffic. Stevens understands the fleeting quality of social media and wants the blog’s backbone to remain in the original space of blogging, which captures her true essence and voice.
“There is just so much history. Architecturally, Boston is one of the most beautiful cities. Commonwealth Avenue has a greenery down its center along with grand homes. The South End has one of the largest Victorian neighborhoods in the country. Newbury Street, Charles Street, and Beacon Hill have many amazing and independent boutiques. I think it’s a mix of really great history, but it has been able to remain so contemporary with residents and visitors,” said Stevens. Over the last fourteen years, Stevens has been well acquainted with Boston and its culture. Through The A-Lyst, she has been able to offer her knowledge about her beloved city to her followers. When hunting for the best rooftop bar or the best consignment shop on Newbury Street, rest assured that The A-Lyst has it covered. @alyssakstevens; www.the-alyst.com
Hannah Amorello
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ucked away on the outskirts of Boston lies a Euro-style restaurant transporting all who visit to a world abroad, where leisure and hospitality are held in the highest regard. Juliet was created by husband-and-wife duo Katrina Jazayeri and Joshua Lewin, blending the passions of the two into one glorious creation. Jazayeri brings her expertise in curated beverages to the restaurant, which serves everything from carefully selected wines to intriguingly unique cocktails. She also employs her creativity and attention to detail as lead designer for the establishment’s magazine, Of Juliet. Lewin uses his culinary background to design a menu that tells the story of his experience in the industry, as well as inventing new and unexpected items to keep Juliet’s clients intrigued. The talents of Jazayeri and Lewin intertwine in the less than 1,000-square-foot space, creating a dynamic similar to that of a Shakespearean drama. Katrina Jazayeri was born into an Iranian-American family, her parents having met one another in the culinary field.
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Photos courtesy of Juliet
Watching her parents in their professions and observing their hosting capabilities, Jazayeri was taught from a very young age the importance of hospitality, personal interaction, and—most importantly—food. Jazayeri carried these values with her as she trained under Liz Vilardi of Belly Wine Bar and with JJ Gonson of Cuisine En Locale. Jazayeri was born in New York, was raised in Texas, and attended the University of California, which exposed her to a diverse range of landscapes. This inspired her to work towards developing the communities she comes in contact with, in addition to reflecting upon the inequalities and injustices within her own industry, and implementing strategies to overcome them.
fellow restaurateur. After an inspiring culinary stint with Bond, Lewin had the chance to work under Vikram Sunderam, a James Beard Awardwinning restaurateur, as well as under Dominique Crenn of Atelier Crenn.
To address the issues she observed, Jazayeri designed Juliet with the goal of providing limitless opportunity to all who seek it. Juliet operates under a fair mode of compensation, paying employees at a level above minimum wage. Juliet’s employee compensation level is substantially higher than that of most restaurants, who pay their staff only a few
Both Jazayeri and Lewin are highly respected in their field and are recipients of ample recognition. Each was named one of Zagat Boston’s 30 Under 30 (Jazayeri in 2014 and Lewin in 2013). Lewin received the 2015 Arts and Industry Award from Opus Affair, and the 2017 Culinary Stewardship Award from WGBH. Jazayeri was the recipient of the Eater
dollars per hour plus tips. In addition, a strong mentorship program was established to give all staff members the opportunity to learn through experience. To help support the members of Boston’s community who might not be able to afford Juliet’s sumptuous food, Juliet offers a limited “pay what you can” reservation. Here, diners such as students and restaurant staff can still enjoy Juliet’s food, but on a budget that works best for them.
Young Guns Award in 2016, as well as one of five national Legacy Awards awarded by Les Dames d’Escoffier, an all-female society dedicated to fine cuisine. Juliet was named one of the best new restaurants of the year in 2016 by Bon Appetit and Restaurant of the Year by Eater Boston.
Joshua Lewin constructed a totally immersive experience for the guests at Juliet by retelling his own story through his creations. Like Jazayeri, Lewin grew up in the kitchen. He found solace in cooking during a turbulent childhood and used the kitchen as a meditative space. Lewin drew on this experience, taking advantage of culinary opportunities that came his way. Soon, he was working under the wing of Jason Bond, a
Lewin is also passionate about creating a work environment based on growth and fairness, encouraging an organizational culture that values the open sharing of knowledge. He not only wants his staff to be educated in and focused on the culinary aspect of their work but also motivates staff members to further develop their understanding of the arts and of entrepreneurship.
Juliet is leading the remodeling of the culinary industry through its efforts to uplift employees and welcome guests of all backgrounds. Though menu items are always changing, the atmosphere of warmth and hospitality remains constant. Jazayeri and Lewin continue to build upon the foundations they have set and are breaking not only culinary barriers but social ones as well. Juliet is an establishment that raises the bar, involving everyone who passes through the doors in the perpetual story being told. @julietunionsq; www.julietsomerville.com
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I
n a time when reading paperbacks is a supposedly dying hobby, one bookshop with a magical presence and tremendous popularity is here to challenge that presumption. Brookline Booksmith, located in the heart of Coolidge Corner in Brookline, has a book to spark anyone’s interest and keep everyone’s passion for reading alive. Nick Petrulakis, a store manager at Brookline Booksmith, said that Coolidge Corner, home of Brookline Booksmith, is a very special place. Petrulakis has spent his life working in bookstores and has spent most of his adult life doing so in San Francisco, California. He made the big move to Boston about a year ago, and he claims that the two cities are not quite as different as one might think. Petrulakis described both as “big, little cities” full of a rich literary tradition. Although he misses the milder weather of California, he cannot help but love Boston and its community. Brookline Booksmith has been a staple in the Brookline community ever since its founding by Marshall J. Smith in 1961 as Paperback Booksmith.
children’s story time on Sundays. According to Petrulakis, the turnout for all the events is considerable, but the children’s story time event is one that the entire staff looks forward to every week because, well, it is the cutest one. Not only is the event adorable, but he also explained that the kids absolutely love it, and kids with a passion for reading will grow into adults with a passion for reading. Every bookstore, Brookline Booksmith included, was worried about future business when paperbacks were going to be replaced by e-readers and audiobooks. However, independent bookstores were pleasantly surprised to see that most people today still prefer the feeling of reading a physical book, which is something that is not going to change. Petrulakis explained that independent bookstores were supposed to lose business and close in the same way that record stores did when CDs and iPods were introduced; however, books and vinyl are not quite the same. “We’ve discovered that listening to music and reading a book are very dissimilar things,” said Petrulakis.
“Since its beginnings as Paperback Booksmith, Brookline Booksmith has continued to evolve, serving the people of Brookline and Boston,” said Petrulakis.
Independent bookstores like Brookline Booksmith continue to thrive despite constant advancement in technology.
Today, Brookline Booksmith serves the community in various ways. Not only does it have interns and hire local high schoolers as employees, but Petrulakis said that the store also loves to give back as often as it can.
The beautiful and thriving bookstore not only has countless reads of various genres but also has a kid’s section, a gift shop, and a famed used-book cellar hidden below the main floor, where people can sell their gently used books.
The store is open for shopping seven days a week; in addition, Brookline Booksmith holds many events, including various book clubs, book signings, and a weekly
“Price is an issue for people to get books sometimes, and offering used books evens the playing field,” said Petrulakis.
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Petrulakis believes that the used-book cellar not only makes reading more accessible, but can also make looking for a book a little more interesting when the customers may not know exactly what they’re looking for. The used-book cellar has a large number of books that are currently out of print, so curious book-browsers can expect the unexpected when they visit the cellar, looking for something that may not necessarily be new but is new to them. Petrulakis has a passion for what the bookstore has been dedicated to since its opening in 1961: “the fine art of browsing.� Petrulakis believes that the used-book cellar can curate a browsing experience that is both exciting and surprising, allowing anyone who walks in to leave with a new tome in hand.
Moving to Boston this past year was a change for Petrulakis, but he explained that nothing is better than talking with people about books. He loves sharing his passion, and he is never bored at work because his job each day is busy; like a good book, every chapter is different. Brookline Booksmith is a beautiful space with a passionate and friendly staff dedicated to helping customers find exactly what they need to keep the excitement of reading alive. The store is always open and invites readers of all ages and interests to stop in and see what Brookline Booksmith has to offer.
Photos by Kelsey Jones
@brooklinebooksmith; www.brooklinebooksmith.com
Alanis Perez-Rivera
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oston is a city that is known for an abundance of irresistible pastries, with delectable treats from the North End to the Seaport and beyond. One bakery is shaking up the scene and setting itself apart from all the others; this bakery is striving to make the city a bit brighter each day by providing mouth-watering cuisine accompanied by outstanding service. Flour Bakery is a Boston-based establishment that seeks to spread its mission to the Greater Boston area: serving up exquisite, homemade food containing the freshest ingredients, along with elevated customer service, to foster a delightful atmosphere. After graduating from Harvard University with degrees in applied mathematics and economics, Joanne Chang, founder and owner of Flour Bakery, left her management consulting position after two years for a change of pace. This marked the beginning of her professional culinary life. “I decided to take a year off from wearing a suit and heels and try and get a job in a restaurant kitchen. I had always loved to cook and bake and eat, so it seemed like a great way to spend a year and see what else was out there,” said Chang. Chang’s journey began across from the Boston Public Garden at the restaurant Biba. Serving for a year as an appetizer cook at Biba, Chang found that she adored the atmosphere of a professional kitchen; however, Chang decided to leave the restaurant world in pursuit of something sweeter. After accepting a position at Bentonwood Bakery, located in Newton Centre, Chang fell in love with the bakery environment, and it was there that she learned her pastry basics. The handmade pastries of Bentonwood, along with the warm service the staff offered, sparked the idea in Chang that would develop into Flour Bakery. “I knew I wasn’t going to go back to the office once I started working in a professional kitchen…I adored Bentonwood—we made everything from scratch, all of the pastries and sandwiches were the best ever, and every day I couldn’t wait to get to work,” said Chang. After moving to New York to work at Payward Patisserie, Chang was inspired to open her own business. She sought to create a space where she could provide excellent service and quality dishes, echoing her past experience at Bentonwood. With her history and training fixed in
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Boston—among her friends and loved ones—Chang knew where to plant her roots. And thus, Boston’s South End was graced with the first-ever Flour Bakery. “I dreamed of opening a place back in Boston in which we would make everything from scratch, and we would give the best service ever. We would be like the bakery version of Cheers,” said Chang. Since its first location opened in 2000, Flour Bakery has opened seven more locations, extending its love of food across the city. From Harvard Square to the Seaport, Flour invites everyone who steps through its doors to enjoy superb cuisine. The staff is committed to making the experience special, an idea that Chang and all her team support. “We live and die by our mission to make people happy through wonderful food and warm service. Everyone who works at Flour is committed to ensuring that you leave happier than when you walked in,” said Chang. This initiative is the foundation of the business, and it is something the entire Flour team believes in. Though its menu changes monthly to keep the choices fresh and the customers engaged, this sentiment does not seem to be going away. When asked about the future of Flour Bakery, Chang stated that it will continue to make Boston happier “one sticky bun and smile at a time.” Flour aims to please veteran customers with a dynamic menu, while bringing in new people all the time with classics. From brioche drizzled with homemade icing, to fresh, made-to-order sandwiches, Flour is home to a wide range of delightful dishes. It presents a broader selection than the average bakery, with a variety of pastries and sweets to choose from. Flour also provides a slew of meal choices, including fresh sandwiches, salads, and even dinner specials. In addition to the in-store menu, Flour offers catering services to make any event a touch sweeter.
Photos courtesy of Joyelle West, Kristin Teig, and Lottie Headley
A diverse clientele can be found at any given time; Flour is a stop for commuters looking for a quick bite, friends wanting to catch up over lunch, or the professional crowd seeking to satisfy their afternoon sweet tooth. For first-timers at Flour Bakery, Chang recommends the egg sandwich, raspberry seltzer, a chocolate chip cookie, and the all-famous sticky bun. “We are obsessed with our food and have daily and weekly tastings of everything we make. Everything is made with the best, freshest, highest-quality ingredients we can find,” said Chang. With menus changing by season, by holiday, and even by month, Flour is always trying to bring its flavor and mission a step above the rest. Chang and her team put time and care into everything they produce and are constantly striving to make Flour Bakery better every day. @flourbakeryandcafe; www.flourbakery.com
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“F
ollain” is Gaelic for “healthy, wholesome, and sound,” epitomizing everything this beauty brand stands for. Tara Foley, the founder of Follain, wanted her skincare routine to match her clean-eating and exercise habits. After researching the clean-beauty movement, Foley made it her mission to spread the word about the benefits. “After I graduated from college, I was living on my own and working in a job that I hated. The only thing that gave me solace and made me feel really good was taking care of myself. I started learning about how these beauty products I had been obsessed with ever since I was a little girl were filled with a bunch of ingredients that didn’t align with that new lifestyle I had...and were even pretty toxic! I’ve always had an activist spirit and felt like I had to do something. I started a blog, and I began to meet with the founders of the clean brands and products that existed at that time, and from there, the idea of Follain was born,” said Foley.
“In the U.S., there is no regulation of terms like ‘natural,’ ‘clean,’ or ‘green,’ so companies can apply those words to any formula, so it really is important to turn around your products and read the ingredients,” said Foley. Every product and brand carried at Follain is guaranteed to be truly natural. Follain’s list of restricted ingredients is extensive, and there are rigorous steps that make up its approval process. Each toxic ingredient is conveniently listed on the website, along with the definition of the ingredient, the reason it appears in products, and the harm it may cause to the skin. On the website, there is a full list of ingredients for each of Follain’s products; organic ingredients are highlighted and may be accompanied by definitions, if the ingredient is not familiar.
“I learned everything from how to care for the plants, to harvesting them, to oil distillation. I felt like it was important for me to learn about how natural beauty ingredients were grown and the differences in growing methods so that when it came to selecting products to carry in Follain,
Follain’s approval process has a total of five steps to guarantee that cleanwashing is not taking place. The first step in identifying the highestquality product is to gather dozens of candidates. Follain’s goal is to carry only the best products, rather than gathering an extensive inventory. As a second step, Follain conducts research on the product candidates to check for restricted ingredients. The third step involves testing the products; after ensuring that the products being introduced are safe, Follain turns to dermatologists, makeup stylists, and Foley to test the products for a professional review. The fourth step involves validating the product; Follain communicates with brand founders to gain an understanding of the individual brands. The fifth step is to launch the product. At this point, the Follain team is educated about the product, so team members can answer any questions consumers may have.
I was approaching the ingredients with a greater knowledge,” said Foley. A manipulative practice within the beauty industry is “cleanwashing”: Well-known beauty brands claim their products are all-natural, vegan, and clean, when in reality they are exactly the opposite.
“At Follain, we’re never going to rush to bring in the latest trend because we’re committed to only carrying products that are truly effective, backed by research and our five-step approval process,” said Foley. When buying for Follain, Foley does not believe in a one-size-fits-all
Before starting Follain, Foley wanted to gain as much knowledge about and experience with natural ingredients as she could, so she packed up her things and moved to a lavender flower farm in France. While living on the farm, Foley gained a depth of understanding that has benefited her brand in the long run.
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product, since skin types differ. All-natural products are great, but their effectiveness depends on the individual skin type they are being used on. The Skin Quiz on the Follain site is a great starting point, especially for those who do not know where to begin. “I really believe that everyone’s skin type and needs are unique. Follain has become known as the best source to get matched to products for your specific skin type and concerns via our Skin Quiz and our in-store Clean Consults. We truly believe that individually matchmaking each person to a product or routine is a necessity. What might be best for one person isn’t necessarily going to be best for her sister or friends,” said Foley. Foley’s passion for her brand is undeniable and evident in the extensive
approval process products pass through, the sustainable packaging efforts, and the attention to detail in the store’s décor. Although there are many competing “natural” brands, Follain stands out from the rest. Foley credits her success to her background, the wide range of products, and the Follain community. With its thorough approval process and wide array of healthy products, how could anyone say no to Follain? @follain; www.follain.com
Marissa Spagnoli
Photos courtesy of Follain
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hile most of Boston sleeps, Union Square Donuts cofounder Josh Danoff and his crew are up making sure there will be fresh donuts awaiting loyal customers. As early as 4:00 AM, there will be someone in the production kitchen preparing the dough and making the glaze for the day ahead. Despite his passion for the craft, Danoff did not start out in the donut business. About three years prior to the opening of Union Square Donuts, Danoff had a business called Culinary Cruisers, where, using a food cart Danoff built out of a bicycle, he would serve fresh fruit popsicles and kombucha on tap at farmers’ markets in the Boston, Somerville, and Cambridge areas. With the help of his brother, Danoff saw a prospective gap in the market. “We started making fresh fruit popsicles and it was at that point when my brother, who was living in Brooklyn at the time, I think he sent me a text and was, like, ‘We should do donuts.’ Up until that point, to be perfectly honest, I never really thought about doing donuts, so I just kind of took a look around the landscape of what’s going on in Boston and food and, you know, we kind of saw that no one was, around here, no one was making those types of donuts that we’re making now,” said Danoff. To get a start in the donut business, Danoff contacted Heather Schmidt, a friend and local pastry chef who was working at the time on a dough recipe. After some adjustments, and many meals consisting only of donuts, the recipe became Union Square Donuts’ signature brioche donut base.
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Danoff’s days of selling popsicles and kombucha gave Union Square Donuts a cult following, one that was more than ready to give the donut shop its business. “I would just say, in the greatest possible way, we absolutely underestimated how ready the Boston, Somerville, and Cambridge area was for the type of product,” said Danoff. At the time, Danoff and his crew were working out of a shared commercial kitchen in Union Square that also had a small amount of retail space. It was quickly apparent, however, that they would need a bigger location. After just a few months of business, Union Square Donuts moved into a retail space that they shared with a local café. Thursday through Sunday morning, Danoff and his crew would sell donuts; then in the evening, the café would take over. It did not take long for Union Square Donuts to outgrow this space as well. In 2014, Union Square Donuts moved to its current location on 20 Bow St. in Somerville, as well as opening a separate production kitchen where Danoff and his team prep the dough and glaze; they then fulfill wholesale or special orders for the day. Not only does the Union Square Donuts team make decadent donuts, but they also love what they do. Between using local fruit and vegetables and sourcing the finest Madagascar vanilla, Union Square Donuts cares about its customers and wants its donuts to be the best part of their day.
“What’s really great about the position we’re in is on a daily basis, we have the ability to be the best part of someone’s day…Their job is to just come in and enjoy one of the best donuts you’ll ever have in your life,” said Danoff. The elements that make Union Square Donuts stand out from other donut shops in the area are quality, passion, and attention to detail. Danoff describes donuts as blank canvases, and Union Square Donuts is willing to push the boundaries of what belongs on a donut, using the best, the freshest, and the most local ingredients.
“For us, it always starts with the dough. You have that dough, and our dough can stand on its own. We really want to let the donut and the glaze shine,” said Danoff. Photos courtesy of Union Square Donuts
Things are not slowing down for Union Square Donuts any time soon. The donut shop is planning to expand, so keep an eye out for a new location popping up in Boston. Until then, Union Square Donuts can be enjoyed at the flagship location at 20 Bow St. in Somerville, at their Brookline location at 409 Harvard St., and at the Boston Public Market. @unionsquaredonuts; www.unionsquaredonuts.com
Raegan Cleary
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Lilac Sunday
Arlington Greek Festival
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Arnold Arboretum, 125 Arborway, Boston
Saint Athanasius the Great Greek Orthodox Church 4 Appleton St., Arlington
Arnold Arboretum’s Lilac Sunday is the perfect outing for a naturefilled Mother’s Day. The Arnold Arboretum at Harvard University is home to 397 lilac plants, one of the premier collections in North America. Enjoy family activities such as designing Mother’s Day cards and face painting, or test botanical fragrances freshly made from the garden’s plants. Make the trip complete and pack a picnic to eat amongst the Arboretum’s aromatic blooms. Celebrated since 1908, Lilac Sunday is a delightful way to spend Mother’s Day, surrounded by flora and fauna alike.
Rain or shine, the Arlington Greek Festival is always held on the grounds of Saint Athanasius the Great Greek Orthodox Church. Festivalgoers are welcome to step inside the church and take a tour of its majestic interior. Outside, booths and carts offer food, jewelry, and handicrafts, while traditional Greek favorites like gyros and roast lamb encourage feasters to step out of their comfort zones. Meanwhile, Greek music and live performances invite festivalgoers to dance along. The Arlington Greek Festival is the perfect place to appreciate and become immersed in Greek culture.
Uncorked: Roars & Pours
Jimmy Fund Scooperbowl
5:00 PM - 7:30 PM Franklin Park Zoo
12:00 PM - 8:00 PM City Hall Plaza, Boston
At the Franklin Park Zoo’s Uncorked event, guests are invited to sample over 30 varieties of wine from brands such as Archer Roose, One Hope, and the local Boston Wine Company. In addition to wine, the event will also provide pizza, snacks, and other beverages such as beer and iced tea. Roars & Pours, previously named Winos & Dinos and Ales & Tails, will take place in the Zoo’s Tropical Forest Pavilion. The pavilion features ring-tailed lemurs, a giant anteater, and many other fascinating creatures. Profits made through ticket purchases will go toward Franklin Park Zoo’s conservation initiatives and educational programs. 21+ event.
Grab your spoons and join the fight against cancer! On June 4-6, take part in the nation’s largest all-you-can-eat ice cream event, featuring America’s favorite ice cream makers. Enjoy a taste of Ben & Jerry’s Cherry Garcia; then dip a spoon into childhood memories with a taste of Friendly’s Forbidden Fudge, and why not follow that up with Yasso’s Loco Coco Caramel? The purchase of a ticket to this summer’s 37th Scooperbowl provides eventgoers with as many free samples of ice cream as they can eat. This event has raised nearly 6.7 million dollars for cancer research and treatment at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Bring your sweet tooth, and indulge in a day full of cold, creamy delight!
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Boston Pride Parade
Strawberry Festival
12:00 PM Copley Square to City Hall Plaza
Connors Farm in Danvers
Bright colors will fill the grey streets of Boston this June when the 48th annual Pride Parade once again marches. This year’s Pride Parade will reflect not only past challenges but also positivity for the future of the LGBTQ+ community and for other minority groups. With values that include volunteerism, leadership, and empowerment, Boston Pride celebrates cultural history and identity. Groups who wish to participate in this powerful display can register to have their names displayed or can march independently. Embrace the enthusiastic crowd and surround yourself in a day of fun, equality, and, of course, pride.
Autumn’s pumpkin patches and Hysteria Danvers at Connors Farm give way to the vivacious Strawberry Festival of summer. Festival visitors venture through the ever-changing themed corn maze, take a scenic hayride, and pick fresh strawberries in the warm country sun. No trip to the farm is complete without a visit to the farm animals, so pop by the adorable baby-animal farm and watch the ducks race along the pond. Be sure to arrive with an empty stomach and enjoy all-day refreshments, snacks, and BBQ, but save room for farm-fresh strawberry shortcake and delectable chocolate-dipped strawberries.
Revere Beach International Sand Sculpting Festival Revere Beach America’s First Public Beach is making waves this July with its sand sculpture competition. Sculptors venture to Revere Beach from near and far to showcase their talents, creativity, and imagination. With 10 tons of sand and just 24 hours of working time, the artists create incredibly intricate sculptures that span the entirety of the beach. Given the over one million people who attend, the festival is undoubtedly a smash. Along with the sand sculptures, the festival features vendors and food trucks that line the beach’s coast, bearing trinkets and sustenance.
Saint Anthony’s Feast
Quincy August Moon Festival
Illustrations by Daisy Bocanegra
North End, Boston
12:00 PM - 5:00 PM Quincy Center
The largest Italian festival in New England, Saint Anthony’s Feast is celebrating its 100th anniversary this summer. National Geographic called the festival the “Feast of all Feasts”; the weekend-long event fills the streets of Boston’s North End with mouthwatering food choices. With something new to taste on every corner, over 100 pushcarts provide the best Italian street foods and desserts. Each night of the feast features something different, whether it is parades, tastings, or live bands. Classic carnival-style games and souvenir stands offer fun for all ages, guaranteeing that the festival will be fondly remembered by all.
QARI, Quincy Asian Resources, Inc., works to improve the lives of immigrants in Quincy and the surrounding communities. QARI provides services, educational programs, and cultural events to enrich the lives of Quincy’s families. The August Moon Festival is Quincy’s signature August event and was named Best Street Festival, Best of Boston 2018, by Boston Magazine. Throughout the day, enjoy traditional Asian music and dance as well as modern hip-hop, rap, and beatbox performances. There are food vendors offering traditional Asian cuisine and amusements for all ages, with crafts, a dunk tank, pony rides, and a petting zoo for over 10,000 guests to enjoy.
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Jada (Left) Top: NATHALIAJMAG Pants: Our own Allison (Middle) Top: NATHALIAJMAG Pants: NATHALIAJMAG Earrings: Best Dressed Christian (Right) Top: Global Thrift Bottoms: Ralph Lauren via Global Thrift Necklace: Our own Bracelet: Madison Ave Fanny Pack: Madison Ave