BARN DANCE March 29th, 4-6PM featuring the Westside Warblers & Caller, Don Heinold. No Experience Necessary. All Ages Welcome. $15 fee. Cash/Check at door The Meeting House, 3850 Main Rd @FourCornersartscenter • (401) 624 2600 Info@FourCornersArts.org
MILUKAS STUDIO
Art sessions offered for all levels, Check website for events. Kelly Milukas is a multi-media painter and sculptor. kellymilukas.com/events • @kellymilukas
FOUR CORNERS GRILLE
Offering fresh, quality food and cocktails along with fast, friendly service at reasonable prices. Featuring fresh, locally caught seafood with an extensive & eclectic menu in a quaint, casual setting. 3841 Main Road • (401) 624 1510 • 4cornersgrille.com
THE CHEESE WHEEL VILLAGE MARKET
Sandwiches, Soups, House-Made Bread, Local Meats, Produce & Prepared Meals
Call to order! Open 9-5 Tues-Sunday 3838 Main Road • (401) 816 5069 • @thecheesewheelri
WRIGLEY STUDIO & GALLERY
Spring Artists: Peter Hussey in April & Kathrine Lovell in May
Wrigley Studio hosts monthly visiting artists & weekly painting groups. West Wing Gallery & Painting Groups 3852 Main Road - Garden Entrance (401) 339 9676 • @wrigley_studio @tiverton4corners
FOUR CORNERS GALLERY
New Artists & New Art Works!
Collections of painting, sculpture, ceramics, photography & jewelry
A rotating selection of local farms, food vendors & Food makers.Year-round farmers market. Sundays 10am-1:30pm. Winter location: Tiverton Middle School, 10 Quintal Dr., Tiverton • tivertonfarmersmarket.com @TivertonFarmersMarket
TIFFANY
PEAY JEWELRY & HEALING ARTS
Treat yourself to Crystal Light Therapy. Come explore the power of gemstones; with intention so much is possible. Enjoy 25% off TPJ charms thru March. 3851 Main Road • (401) 816 0878 • tiffanypeay.com @tiffanypeayjewelry
SAKONNET VINEYARD
Celebrating 50 years!
Follow us for live music and events 162 West Main Rd, Little Compton RI • (401) 635-8486 @sakonnetwine • Sakonnetwine.com
LOU LOU'S DECOR
Make your beach house a home with a cozy & fun addition from Lou Lou’s Décor with locations in Tiverton & Newport. Full interior design services available. 3913 Main Road • (401) 816 4362 www.loulousdecor.com
Seven habits of highly e fective home sellers:
Alicia Reynolds
Let’s chat about your real estate goals. Sales Associate Licensed in RI, MA, & CT 401.835.2605 areynolds@residentialproperties.com www.aliciareynoldsrealtor.com @aliciareynoldsrealtor
Taking the time to better understand your real estate goals is key to helping you successfully achieve them. Whatever your goals are, I’m here to help - give me a call today!
1. Hire an agent who is a local expert
2. Always declutter before listing
3. Hire a professional cleaner + stager 4. Show the buyer you love your home
5. Leave the house for every showing
6. Review ofers objectively
7. Contact me for a market analysis
SPRING INTO LOVE
Debra
PUBLISHERS
Barry Fain
Richard Fleischer
Matt Hayes
John Howell
EDITOR IN CHIEF Elyse Major Elyse@HeyRhody.com
ADVERTISING
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GENERAL MANAGER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Nick DelGiudice Nick@HeyRhody.com
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ACCOUNT MANAGERS
EDITOR Ken Abrams Ken@HeyRhody.com
SENIOR
DESIGNER
Abigail Brown
Shelley Cavoli Central RI & New Business Shelley@HeyRhody.com
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Interested in advertising? Email Marketing@HeyRhody.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
@valentina_by_Flytographer
Kayla Mandeville
Gina Mastrostefano
Mark Medeiros
Sarah Petrarca
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Alexandra Ashe
Gina Mastrostefano
Andrea E. McHugh
Nina Murphy
Emily Olson
Deborah Goodrich Royce
Kennedy Ryan Ruthie Wood
Interested in writing? Email Abbie@HeyRhody.com
INTERNS
Caitlyn Bailey
Interested in an internship? Email Elyse@HeyRhody.com
Proud member of the Rhode Island Press Association
PRINTED IN USA
Te Buzz
7 ART: Exhibition on Goat Island evokes notions of spring
10 A trio of women-owned shops open in Tiverton
14 RHODY GEM: The Newport gift shop with flower-farm ties
16 VOICES OF THE BAY: Tales and garden tips from a third-gen landscaper
20 CALENDAR: This month’s must-do’s
Home & Style
A15 HOME: A kitchen remodel in white is a one-tone wonder
A18 RHODY READS: Bestseller shares hot-takes on six book releases
A20 INFLUENCER: How a family trip launched a travel career
A22 SHOP: Goods for repping local during March Madness
Leading Ladies
45 Inspiring stories of women making a diference around Rhode Island
55 The feminist arts movement in action
Food & Drink
59 IN THE KITCHEN: A paralegal’s pasta-making pivot
61 EXPERIENCE: Tea time at a Warren spot fit for fairy tales
63 FOOD NEWS: East Bay businesses expand with new locations
Cover Story: Travel Trends
Ideas for putting regional spins on popular stays
64 PIC OF THE BAY
Photography by Carrie Usmar
Photography by Gina Mastrostefano
Photo courtesy of Young Design
THE COVER: Views of Easton’s Beach at Newport Beach Hotel & Suites. Photo courtesy of RMO PR.
Photo courtesy of Castle Hill Inn
funny4funds.com/events or eastbaychamberri.org/events
FRIDAY, APRIL 11, 2025
JACKY’S GALAXIE | 383 METACOM AVENUE, BRISTOL
DOORS OPEN AT 6:30 PM SHOW STARTS AT 7:30 PM
TICKETS $25
FOOD OPTION DETAILS: JOIN US FOR A FUN EVENING AT JACKY'S GALAXIE
Please note, the event does not include a meal. However, you can dine at Jacky's restaurant before the event or order food or appetizers from Jacky's menu and bring it to the event room MAKE IT A NIGHT TO REMEMBER GREAT FOOD, ENTERTAINMENT & FUN! SPONSORED BY
East Bay Chamber of Commerce | www.eastbaychamberri.org | 401-245-0750
THE BUZZ
Art | Shop | Rhody Gem | Voices of the Bay | Calendar
Spring Forward
Fine art show and themed ball celebrate creativity and craftsmanship in Newport
By Alexandra Ashe
The word “OSTARA” floats in all-caps over a rendering of a full moon between two tall trees, evoking the dreamlike shadowy forest of a fairy tale. This is the original work of Curtis Speer, and it serves to promote the theme of the two-day Fine Art Show and Ball hosted by Art Newport, named for the goddess of spring. This celebration of craftsmanship, creativity, and community will take place March 28-30, at the newly renovated Newport Harbor Island Resort on Goat Island, and will bring together artists, enthusiasts, and the local community for a weekend of inspiration and connection.
Conceived by the Newport Artists Collective, most notably Speer – president and chairman of the board and an artist, photographer, and owner-operator of Cusp Gallery – Art Newport’s mission is to showcase a wide array of creations by independent, local artists while forging a strong bond between the art world and the public. “Art Newport is all about creating a dialogue between artists and the community,” says Speer. “We want people to meet and talk to the artists, procure fine art, and learn about the vibrant art community in Newport.”
MARCH 28: OSTARA FINE ARTS BALL
Don “art-inspired couture” and revel in the arrival of spring while supporting the arts at this glamorous event that offers VIP access and firstlooks at art available for acquisition, followed by food, dancing, music, and more. Eventbrite: Ostara Fine Arts Ball by Newport Artists Collective
The works of 40 emerging and mid-career artists primarily from New England, alongside select artists from across the United States, will be on exhibit and for sale. The event aims to grow into an internationally recognized art show in the coming years. Visitors can expect to be dazzled by an eclectic mix of fine jewelry, stunning paintings, intricate sculptures, and captivating photography. “We’ve curated a diverse collection that offers something for every taste,” Speer notes. “Whether you’re an avid collector or a casual admirer, you’ll find pieces that will resonate with you.”
Speer is proud to say that over the past year, he’s witnessed initiatives like the Newport Artists Collective’s grassroots efforts provide invaluable exposure and opportunities for emerging talent. “We’ve found that local galleries and independent artists have experienced a notable increase in art sales and repeat customers.” The
Photos courtesy of Newport Artist Collective
Curtis Speer
OSTARA original artwork by Curtis Speer
organization also hosts a weekly Art Salon Series at the Brenton Hotel in Newport every Thursday evening, which is open to the public. By making art accessible, championing local talent, and offering an unforgettable experience, the event is poised to leave a lasting impression on visitors and art enthusiasts alike. “Our hope is that everyone leaves feeling inspired, connected, and with a deeper appreciation for the transformative power of art in our lives,” says Speer. “The response has been incredible. Independent artists have been picked up by galleries, galleries have seen higher patronage on Thursday evenings than on regular business days, and new artists keep showing up. The art community continues to build and has become very supportive of one another.” General admission for the Fine Art Show is $10; learn more at NewportArtistCollective.com.
Salon Series at The Brenton Hotel
In Their Corner
A trio of women-owned businesses are fitting additions to Tiverton’s historic district shopping
By Ruthie Wood
It may sound like the pitch for the next reality TV show: four women, three businesses, one location. But where “trashy TV” capitalizes on melodrama, this cadre of entrepreneurs is building success and living their dreams from the shared foundation of one key aspect: love of Tiverton Four Corners. From opening an independent bookstore to curating a vintage lifestyle brand to a mainstay expanding into home goods, for this group, harmonizing business and community is all part of the job.
The Yellow House
Before she began an indie bookstore venture, Jai-Lee Egna lived in New York and built a career in the commercial photography industry. “My partner and I fell in love with Tiverton and the area, and purchased a historic home in 2018,” she recalls. Still, Egna “longed for a bookstore and space to meet neighbors and new friends – a space with art, interesting books, and a feeling of community as well as a place to learn and share information.” As she nurtured this dream, she heard from friends and neighbors wanting more connection and gathering spots. So when the Benjamin F. Seabury House was made available – the same building that held the town library for a brief moment in the mid-1800s – she took a leap and opened The Yellow House in December 2024.
“It’s no secret that running a brick-and-mortar bookshop in the age of Amazon is a risky prospect,” Egna hedges, but a couple months into the business and the community has rallied around the space. Visitors can find titles based on her interests, new releases, and older books based on input and observations. “It’s been fun getting to know the community through their taste in books,” she explains, noting that sales have shown a “strong interest in nature and science writing, and new fiction.” Watch for events, talks, and workshops, a used book area, and seating with wine and snacks. 2842 Main Road, TheYellowHouseRI.com
The Yellow House
Merch alert
Photo (top) @theyellowhouse_ri, (bottom)
by Elyse Major
Bunny Gold and Emma Kunz had both been moonlighting as merchants of vintage clothing and homewares for a few years at flea markets in the area. A serendipitous conversation at the Providence Flea revealed a mutual love for antiquing, collecting vintage, slow living by the ocean, surfing, and the desire to open a store based on those values. Gold grew up in Providence around the city’s flea markets during the ‘90s, where her mom kept a weekend stand. She says the “culturally diverse
picking paradise” gave her a sharp eye for spotting the best goods, and an appreciation for vintage. Kunz, also a Rhode Island native, grew up playing “store” in an artistic household, selling found objects and antiques with a Barbie cash register. After pursuing a career in marketing, and then reselling and researching homewares, finding a business partner in Gold felt like kismet.
The women reconnected after a space freed up in Tiverton Four Corners, and enrolled in EforAll Rhode Island, a business accelerator
Cabana Collective
Cabana Collective
program, to bring their shop, Cabana Collective, to life. Known for its artist community, antiques, and charm, Four Corners was the perfect space for their vision. Open since November 2024, the shop has shown a collection of 13 vendors, chosen for how they align with the “Cabana lifestyle” and as a way to collaborate with and bolster the community of vintage dealers and artisans the pair already belonged to. Together, they have artfully assembled a shopping experience that emphasizes sustainability, community, and coastal charm through rediscovered clothing, homewares, objects, and artisan-made goods from rotating vendors. 31 East Road, Cabana-Co.com
Photos by Sarah Petrarca, courtesy of Cabana Collective
Inside the E. Main cottage that is Cabana Collective
Artful displays of vintage wares
Sayles Livingston HOME
A long-standing member of the Tiverton community, Sayles Livingston is expanding her entrepreneurial reach. Known for Sayles Livingston Properties, her real estate firm, and Sayles Livingston Design, her event design business, she is now launching Sayles Livingston HOME, a retail store focused on furniture, antiques, home decor, and gifts. Opening in early spring this year in the space formerly occupied by The Cottage, HOME will have an in-store “interactive” design center for clients to see how different fabrics – from rugs to couches – would work in a space. Sayles’ eye is trained on high-quality pieces, but also affordability.
Shoppers will find pieces that are colorful and “sensory.” Although she hesitates to confine herself within any theme, clients will find pieces that call out to botanical and coastal styles, which blend Sayles’ masters degree in entomology with the beauty of the farm coast. Despite the takeover of The Cottage, she stresses that customers who loved that store will still be able to get the same or similar pieces at HOME, and by reinventing the shop, she is not tearing down that part of the community; on the contrary, her mission is to carry on the history and legacy of a beloved former store while mixing it with her own creative spirit. 3847 Main Road, SaylesLivingstonDesign.com
Photo courtesy of Sayles Livingston
Future home of Sayles Livingston HOME
Young Designs Floral Studio
Boutique Flower & Gift Shop
What it is:
The gift store and retail side of a floral studio.
Where to find it:
On upper Thames Street, take it slow as you look for a tangerine-colored storefront, bordered by cobblestone alleys. The “open” flag confirms you’ve found it.
What makes it a Rhody Gem?
“We always thought we should be a Rhody Gem!” said Melissa Bachelder, retail sales at Young Designs upon receiving the notification. This charming shop is the shared vision of sisters Sarah and Hattie Young, who started their floral design studio out of their Boston apartment in 2016 and opened the Newport shop in 2021. Along with a beautiful selection of paper goods, gifts, jewelry, candles, and other treasures, there are flowers – plenty of flowers. This makes perfect sense when you learn that they are the daughters of the Young Family Farm in Little Compton. “Our farm roots have shaped our business; we’ve grown up surrounded by incredible flowers. We care about using the best product, and want our customers to experience locally grown flowers,” explains Sarah. “Whether it’s a local delivery or for an event, we take an artistic approach to everything we create, including how we curate the shop. We want what we do to reflect who we are.”
Every neighborhood has that secret, hidden, cool and unusual, or hole-in-the-wall spot that locals love. We’re on the hunt for Rhody Gems! Email Marketing@HeyRhody.com to suggest yours and we just might feature it!
hoto
courtesy of Young Designs Floral Studio
Voices of the Bay: Alex DaPonte
It’s all in the family for this third-generation landscaper
By Nina Murphy
The fleet of vehicles for Bristol-based DaPonte’s Landscaping Services is a familiar sight throughout the East Bay and Aquidneck Island. Originally founded in 1969 by Seraphin “Fee” and Marjorie DaPonte, the day-to-day operations over the past 20 years have mainly been the responsibility of the second generation, sons Michael and Seraphin, Jr. Recently, the family tree of leadership has expanded to the third generation: Michael’s son and daughter, Alex DaPonte and Elizabeth Anania, and Seraphin, Jr.’s son Ethan DaPonte. As project manager for landscaping installations, Alex offers some tips for the spring gardener and reflects on working in a family business. The Warren resident is a certified Rhode Island Horticulturist and a graduate of Catholic University with a bachelor’s degree in business with a focus on management.
Get Packing: When I was young, I received a phone call from my dad one summer morning around 6:30am. “Hey, you have to get out of bed. You’re going to go cut grass today,” he said. We had not discussed that I was going to go work for the business that summer, but the crew was short that day and he decided this was the day I was going to go to work. I had to scramble to find a lunch box because, as he said, “The guys are out front waiting for you right now!”
Design Plans: As I got older I started working more on my father’s side of the business – conventional landscaping as opposed to maintenance like my uncle. I enjoy that every day is different. The design plans for planting and the materials are always different, and so is the location. One day I might be in Bristol, the next day, Newport. One day it’s mulching or maybe planting. I have an appreciation for the creativity in the implementation of the plans. I like pulling up to a job site, seeing an unfinished product one day and within a few days or weeks it has been completely transformed into something totally different.
Mature Roots: There’s a lot of responsibility that the three of us have had to pick up in a fairly
short amount of time, and that can be stressful. We are very lucky to have my father and uncle because they have so much knowledge; it’s an invaluable asset. There’s never a situation where nobody knows what to do. The business has grown so much in the past 10 to 15 years that I think it would kind of shock some people to see all the different moving parts, not only just from running the day-to-day with over 100-plus employees but all the different things that need to be handled. It’s good that we have the five of us to be able to work together and help each other.
Expert Advice: Examine the beds, remove debris from winter like sticks and trash. Determine the soil of the beds. You might want to amend with some compost which helps the soil structure with water drainage to the roots and past the roots so that water doesn’t pool in your garden. Compost helps provide nitrogen and phosphorus for plants. It degrades over time, so it’s like a slow release of natural fertilizer for your plant material.
While it’s great to prune shrubs and plants, it’s very important that you are aware of the weather forecast in the future. If you do it too soon, and we were to have another freeze, you could jeopardize your blooms for that coming season. Aerating your lawn is great to do because when you apply your fertilizers for the season, the aeration allows for an easier transportation of fertilizers, water, any sort of pesticide to travel through the lawn and not just sit on top and get closer to the roots to fully absorb all the good nutrients.
Clock Out: We always say that work stays at work. We understand that we may get frustrated with each other Monday to Friday, but we leave our work at work as best we can, and then spend our time as a family. I think it’s very important, not just for our business but for any family business to not carry any baggage outside of the office. I think we do a good job of it. The nice thing about a family business is knowing that we’re all on the same side. The goal is for everyone to succeed.
Photo courtesy of Alex DaPonte
Alex DaPonte
T e Must List
March 27: Join Hey Rhody Media Co. at the Event Factory as we celebrate the state’s Leading Ladies featured in this issue. The evening includes food, drinks, a performance from Ballet RI, a live DJ, and more. Warwick, HeyRhody.com
March 9: Don’t miss an exciting show from Grammy and Emmy award-nominated artist and composer Máiréad Nesbitt , an all-Ireland fiddle champion and founding member of the Irish music supergroup Celtic Woman. Newport, JanePickens.com
March 12: An herbalist-led Communi-Tea gathering invites guests to Mabel’s Studio at the Norman Bird Sanctuary. Sip rejuvenating tea and learn about the medicinal properties of the leaves in your cup. Middletown, NormanBirdSanctuary.org
March 13: Join historian Keith Stokes at Griswold House to hear the stories of African American politicians, professionals, and other community leaders at Notes from Gilded Age Newport in Color Newport, NewportArtMuseum.org
March 14: Enjoy a concert of traditional Irish and Americana music from Failte , an ensemble of accomplished local musicians including Erin Dube, Paul Dube, Josh Kane, and Dean Robinson. Bristol, LindenPlace.org
March 15: Don your green and join dozens of local organizations at the 69th annual Newport St. Patrick’s Day Parade , which kicks off at 11am from Newport City Hall and winds through the City by the Sea. NewportIrish.com
March 16: At only 89 feet long, the World’s Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade easily fills the tiny village of Adamsville, while raising funds for food banks in Little Compton, Tiverton, and communities in nearby Massachusetts. Adamsville, PaddyParade.com
March 21-23: Mystical Ways , a world premiere ballet from choreographers Marika Brussel, Shane Farrell, and NCB’s artistic director Danielle Genest will conjure your imagination and capture your spirit. Newport, ContemporaryBallet.org
March 27-30: The inaugural Lil Rhody Laugh Riot welcomes top comedians including Kevin Hart, Leslie Jones, Aziz Ansari, and others to the biggest comedy festival ever to hit the Ocean State. Various locations, LilRhodyLaughRiot.com
March 29: The 14th annual Frostbite Bash , sponsored by the Herreshoff Marine Museum and the America’s Cup Hall of Fame, features an evening of signature cocktails, dancing in the Hall of Boats, and delicious fare from local restaurants. Bristol, Herreshoff.org
Photography by Ken Abrams
Leading Ladies 2024
“
Let’s Go!
Unpacking current travel trends and where to experience them regionally
Travel is back with data for both domestic and international trips showing returns to pre-pandemic levels. With this record-breaking boom comes a wave of trends, which can be fun to plan a vacation around. Whether you’re packing your bags for an Ocean State staycation or your wanderlust extends beyond state borders – but sans passport – we’ve got you covered with escapes right here in Rhode Island, along with nearby Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York. From vacations based on visiting the location of your favorite streaming series to the joy of guiltlessly going off by yourself and catching up on rest but not status updates, it’s all here and more.
By Elyse Major
BOOK SMART
• Do research
• Plan based on rates
• Seek specials
• Ask about discounts
SET-JETTING
Travel based on film, TV, and literary locations
CHRISTMAS MOVIE TRAIL
If you haven’t been to Mystic since your fifth grade field trip, it’s time to return. Hilton Mystic puts you within walking distance to both Mystic Aquarium and Olde Mistick Village, both showcased in the Hallmark Channel movie, Mystic Christmas . See Cork the seal (who starred as Peppermint) at the aquarium, grab a slice at Mango’s, or take a short drive for a treat at Sift Bake Shop. Then, over a delicious meal at the hotel’s restaurant The IRONS, your server can dish about the cast, and if you’re lucky, you’ll get the waitress who appeared in 1988’s Mystic Pizza . The amenity-rich hotel is filled with photo ops that lean into the nearby seaport, including a ship’s wheel and a life-sized pirate. Mystic, CT. Hilton.com
AQUIDNECK ALLURE
The City by the Sea has provided a stylish backdrop for countless films dating back to 1956’s High Society , and they’re all listed with fun facts at DiscoverNewport.org. Fans of HBO’s The Gilded Age can take a guided tour via Newport Mansions, and continue the glamour at The Chanler , an authentic Gilded Age mansion-turned hotel with restaurants, all enjoyed without velvet ropes and stanchions. Newport, TheChanler.com
ACTION:
THE RENAISSANCE SIGNATURE ROOM AT THE CHANLER
THE OUTDOOR COURTYARD WITH GAS-LIT FIREPITS AT HILTON MYSTIC
A PIRATE STANDS READY FOR #HILTONMYSTICPIRATE SELFIES
CHRISTMAS IS A STATE OF MIND
Over 22 holiday movies have been filmed in the Nutmeg State. Find a map and more at the Connecticut Christmas Movie Trail, CTVisit.com
Filming resumes for James L. Brook’s movie Ella McCay in Providence this month. Locations are TBD, so stay tuned.
MOVIE STAR’S CHILDHOOD HOME
The home of actor Van Johnson, best known for MGM films, still stands in Newport on 16 Ayrault Street. It’s a private residence but worth a walk by for fans of the endearing actor.
Photos (top)
courtesy of Hilton Mystic, (bottom left) courtesy of The Chanler, (bottom right)
Photographed by Eric Carpenter in 1947
DIGITAL DETOX
Overnights ideal for disconnecting from tech
UNPACK AND UNPLUG
When you feel like getting away from it all, there’s no better place than Block Island. Many become besotted with the spot for what it doesn’t have: no chain stores, Dunkies, or Uber. Bed and Breakfast Sea Breeze Block Island takes it one better: no WiFi, no TV, no AC. A 10-minute walk from Old Harbor, what you will get is a charming room outfitted in cheerful trappings that complement its rustic bones, a scrumptious chef-prepared breakfast with handmade serveware in a picnic basket delivered to your door each morning, and views overlooking the ocean, pond, and wildflower meadow. Bikes (with helmets, maps, and locks) are available for rent, ready for exploring! Open May 1 through mid-October. Block Island, SeaBreezeBlockIsland.com
QUIET QUARTERS
Built in 1898 as a boarding house and recently refurbished, the Admiral Dewey Inn feels like staying at your grandmother’s big ol’ house by the sea. Welcoming and comfy, with a delicious breakfast served to start your day, there is WiFi but no TV, so hang in the common room and play board games instead. South Kingstown, AdmiralDeweyInn.com
DEWEY INN IS OPEN YEAR-ROUND
ADMIRAL
INSIDE ROOM 8, A DELUXE SUITE WITH GARDEN VIEWS GUESTS ENJOYING THE ROW OF COLORFUL ADIRONDACK CHAIRS
THE OUTDOOR CHECK-IN STAND AT SEA BREEZE BLOCK ISLAND
SOFT TRAVEL
Skip the itinerary and embrace doing less
SCHEDULE-FREE ZONE
Ever return from a vacation more exhausted than before you left? Enter: Madison Beach Hotel . Located on the Connecticut coast overlooking Long Island Sound, it’s an easy drive from Little Rhody. Sleep in or catch the sunrise from the balcony of your well-appointed room, grab a craft cocktail to watch the sunset, and in between, enjoy dining at The Wharf Restaurant, recently named a top restaurant in the shoreline area. There’s a spa and fitness center, and things to do nearby, but how glorious to stay put, bury your toes in the sand, and treat yourself to something from the 24-7 lobby gift shop. Madison, CT. MadisonBeachHotel.com
LUXURY LEISURE
Hand your car over to the valet, and experience one of only 14 triple Five-Star resorts in the world, Ocean House
The breathtaking yellow Victorian has 46 guest rooms and 23 signature suites, all designed for comfort with touches like goose down pillows, marble bathrooms, and in-room refreshments. View a private collection of artwork by Ludwig Bemelmans (illustrator of Madeline ), stare at the sea from the Relaxation Room after a spa treatment, or saunter down to the beach. There are also myriad ways to enjoy the property without staying over, including dining, culinary classes, and events, like its signature author series, hosted by co-owner, bestseller, and “Rhody Reads” contributor, Deborah Goodrich Royce. Westerly, OceanHouseRI.com
AN AERIAL VIEW OF THE HISTORIC HOTEL
PULL INTO THE CIRCULAR DRIVE FOR VALET SERVICES
AFTER A SPA TREATMENT, LUXURIATE WITH TEA IN THE RELAXATION ROOM
ALL THE ELEMENTS OF A RELAXING STAY
Photos (top) courtesy of Madison Beach Hotel, (bottom) courtesy of Ocean House
SOLO TRAVEL
The joy of a guilt-free getaway on your own schedule
If the concept of traveling alone seems lonely, think again. It’s like an extended version of taking yourself out to lunch, where you choose the place and set your own pace. Unlike Friend Finding vacations, this trend centers on self. Start with destinations where you feel safe and that offer amenities like restaurants and walkable points of interest. If dining out feels awkward, bring a book until you feel more comfortable, or order room service.
COASTAL COTTAGE
Luxuriate in a snug space awash in white, perched on the dunes of a private beach. Sound worlds away? It’s part of Castle Hill Inn ’s row of beach cottage rooms just 250 yards from the main Agassiz Mansion. Book a spa service at the Retreat at Castle Hill by Farmaesthetics, savor fine dining at Aurelia, and follow a path to the lighthouse, but save plenty of time for relaxing by the fireplace in your coastal chic digs. Don’t leave without trying the signature lobster hash for breakfast at the main building/mansion dining room. Newport, CastleHillInn.com
ADVENTURING ALONE
For an expansive resort, it doesn’t take long for Chatham Bars Inn to give village-life vibes. Paths connect everything to the Main Inn, which houses magnificent common areas, and restaurants including the elegant STARS, serving inventive dishes destined to become favorites. Seasonal spa treatments drawing on harvests, turn-down service with local chocolates, and a full events calendar enhance the amenities list. Main Street shopping and Chatham Lighthouse are both less than a mile away. Discounts for educators, first responders, veterans, and military officers. Chatham, MA. ChathamBarsInn.com
FEEL LIKE A CHARACTER IN A
YOUR
STUNNING VIEWS, EXCELLENT SERVICE, AND CREATIVE DISHES ARE HALLMARKS OF STARS
FOLLOW THE PATHWAY TO CASTLE HILL LIGHTHOUSE
SEASONAL TREATMENT CABANAS GLOW IN THE SPA’S OUTDOOR JAPANESE ZEN GARDEN
NANCY MEYER’S MOVIE IN
PRIVATE BEACH COTTAGE ROOM
SLOW TRAVEL
Be immersed in a new-to-you unique and authentic setting
STAY AWHILE
Planting yourself someplace different doesn’t have to call for a plane ticket. Newport Beach Hotel & Suites puts you smack-dab in the salty action with Easton’s Beach and Flo’s Clam Shack mere steps or a rented bike ride away. Comprising two hotels, there’s the Historic Building and the Suites Building, both recently refreshed with nautical-inspired decor. Suites are akin to miniapartments – with fully equipped kitchens, some two-bedroom units, and washer/ dryer – making them ideal for multigenerational travel and extended stays. When you’re done living like a local, take advantage of the heated indoor pool, hot tub, rooftop fire pit, fitness room, or spa. Seasonal dining options are available. Middletown, NewportBeachHotelAndSuites.com
CITY LIVING
A perk of Providence is that downtown attractions are all within a relatively small footprint. Luxury boutique hotel The Beatrice expertly uses this to their advantage by curating stays that pair buzzworthy happenings with themed packages, which might include anything from specialty cocktails to a locally made souvenir. The entire property exudes sophistication, from the sparkling lobby to first-floor restaurant Bellini Providence, extending to guest rooms with high ceilings, skyline views, and modern chandeliers. Leave the sweatpants at home, but rest assured, all staff will make you feel comfy and welcome. Providence, TheBeatrice.com
RECHARGE HERE
Explore quaint Jamestown from a home base at the Lionel Champlin Guest House. Despite its 1888 plaque, the historic property has modern amenities like an EV charging station and WiFi, and it’s close to shopping and restaurants like perennially popular BEECH. Jamestown, LCGuesthouse.com
OCEAN VIEWS FROM THE HISTORIC HOTEL
LINGER OVER LIGHT BITES AND COCKTAILS AT THE BEATRICE’S BELLINI ROOFTOP
THE FIRST BELLINI IN NEW ENGLAND, FROM FAMED FOURTH GENERATION RESTAURATEUR, IGNAZIO CIPRIANI, FEATURES CLASSIC ITALIAN FARE, LUSCIOUS DESSERTS, AND OF COURSE, BELLINIS!
POND VIEWS FROM THE ROOFTOP
Photos (top) courtesy of Madison Beach Hotel, (bottom) courtesy of Ocean House
EASY ESCAPE
A change of scenery is closer than you think
Sometimes 48 hours is all you need to shake things up and Aloft Providence Downtown makes it easy with affordable room rates, a pool table, Xbox Gaming Room, and lively programming. Details, like suites named after gemstones to honor its Jewelry District location, give indie hotel feels even though it’s a Marriott property – so bonus points if you’re someone racking up Marriott Bonvoy points. Self-billed as “fun and sassy,” each of the two onsite bars has its own signature drink: find the Insta-worthy tiki cocktail served in a yellow ceramic boombox on the first floor at W XYZ bar, and the Rooftop Peacock upstairs at Blu Violet Rooftop, which also hosts a Sunday R&B Brunch with either live music or a DJ. The hotel boasts some of the best views of the city and is proud to showcase work by local artists, including stick-like figure paintings by Occipital on everything from lobby restroom mirrors to guest rooms, and new murals by @chalk_box. It also makes for great Bleisure Travel (a mix of business and leisure). Providence, Marriott.com
FOOD FOCUSED
A newly opened treasure hidden in plain sight near the malls, The Loom has been described as “a restaurant with a hotel.” Executive chef Daniel Gibb, originally from Scotland and previously at the helm of an award-winning restaurant in Oklahoma, spent time researching New England cuisine before putting his own tasty spin on creating a menu for The Brook Kitchen + Bar. The interior of the 163-room hotel along the Pawtuxet River leans into its neighborhood’s history as the birthplace of the Fruit of the Loom brand, and fiber art warms the industrial chic environs. Weave together a visit based on dinner and breakfast, and toast the stay over a Fruit of the Loom cocktail, a pastel confection of gin, butterfly pea syrup, Prosecco, and mint, topped with a tuft of cotton candy. Warwick, TheLoomHotel.com
NEW DIGS ON THE BLOCK
Three new lodgings coming soon to Block Island:
• Block Island Bunk House
• Eureka Hotel
• The Inn at New Harbor
THE LOBBY INVITES GUESTS TO RELAX IN ARTFUL SURROUNDINGS
Photos
(top left)
courtesy of Aloft, (bottome left) by Elyse Major, (top right) by Jenna Kaplan, (bottom right) courtesy of The Loom
TRAVEL BY TRAIN
All aboard for fancy adventures by rail
LEGENDARY LODGINGS
Ever watch an old movie and marvel at how formal and fashionable everything was? Create your own posh-cation with a visit to The Plaza Hotel . In less than four hours by train, have your own New York moment when you walk up the steps and enter through revolving doors to the luminous grand lobby – a must for picture-taking. Continue on to spaces like The Champagne Bar, an open restaurant serving light gourmet fare, and The Palm Court, a dazzling venue topped by a stained-glass dome, open for breakfast or cocktails but mostly known for its famed afternoon tea services (hello, Eloise). Guests are encouraged to “dress for the occasion,” so plan accordingly and make that part of the plan. There are also upscale shops, a Guerlain Spa, and fitness center. Guest room amenities include 24-carat gold-plated faucets, solid white marble vanities, and white terry branded bathrobes. All this comes with a price tag to match but you can always order off the menu at The Champagne Bar to experience the setting! New York, NY. Fairmont.com
JET-SET HERE
There have been many movies filmed at The Plaza over the years, from 1959’s North By Northwest to 1992’s Home Alone 2 , but it just might be Hallmark Channel’s Christmas at the Plaza (2019) that provides the best look.
NEXT STOP: WESTERLY
Feel like you’re away on a European vacation by riding the rails to Westerly for a stay at Weekapaug Inn. Multiple departures from Providence and Kingston make transport part of the fun, and hotel staff can arrange rides to and from the train station. Once at Weekapaug, comfortable rooms and suites await, along with satisfying meals at The Restaurant, snacks at the guest pantry, drinks at the bar, daily resort activities, firepits with s’mores kits, access to the beach, and more. Westerly, WeekapaugInn.com
THE EXTERIOR OF THE LEGENDARY PLAZA HOTEL
BREATHTAKING VIEW OF THE PALM COURT FROM THE LOBBY
WEEKAPAUG INN OVERLOOKS QUONOCHONTAUG POND AND THE ATLANTIC
Photos (top) courtesy of The Plaza Hotel, (bottom) courtesy of Weekapaug Inn
HOME & STYLE
Home | Rhody Reads | Influencer | Shop
Coast to Coast
An East Bay Colonial gets a California-inspired kitchen update
By Andrea E. McHugh
For one Barrington couple, finding the house of their dreams came down to one thing: tranquil living among nature. “We were looking for something that felt more connected to the water and where our kids could spend more time running around outside,” say the homeowners. “What sold us on the house was the backyard and the feeling of peacefulness we felt just sitting out in the yard.” While the custom-built Nantucket colonial ticked all the boxes, the kitchen – the familial heart of the home – didn’t exactly align with their tastes. “We were looking for somewhat of a ‘California casual’ vibe in our home,” they explain, “something that gave off a natural and relaxed feeling with a sense of connection to nature and the outdoors.”
Lindy Lowney in action
The kitchen was styled with a neutral, natural color palette and by introducing texture
Admittedly feeling overwhelmed with how to execute that vibe while honoring the architectural integrity of the home, the couple turned to Lindy Lowney Design, an East Greenwich-based residential interior design agency specializing in modern coastal interiors. For nearly 20 years, Lowney has styled and designed homes throughout Southern New England and beyond. With an attention to detail, eye for color, and affinity for all things coastal living, Lowney, who credits her intrinsically coastal aesthetic from
her upbringing at the Jersey Shore, was ideally suited for the East Bay project.
The coastal kitchen refresh, says Lowney, included painting the custom cabinetry, replacing the granite countertops, and updating hardware and fixtures for what the designer describes as a “fresh, modern, organic update.” She created a neutral palette with off-white and light gray paint, installing soft white quartz countertops, swapping out the existing hardware for brushed brass hardware, and adding contemporary, clean fixtures throughout.
The island cabinetry was painted a very soft light gray for minimal contrast to the remaining off-white cabinetry. New sink basins and fixtures were replaced for a clean, modern look.
Original granite was replaced with soft white quartz countertops; modern, brushed brass hardware adds warmth
Get Rhody Style
Ideas and resources for making the most of living in the Ocean State.
Coastal Influences
Lowney, an Allied practitioner of the American Society of Interior Designers, says the Ocean State provides countless coastal influences in her local client projects. “I take inspiration from the shoreline to infuse a similar color palette and introduce textures reminiscent of the beach,” she explains. “Simple introductions of coastal hues used in paint, furnishings, and decor can give that Ocean State vibe.” For the kitchen, she selected a soothing white quartz countertop sourced from Arnold Lumber Company’s Kitchen Design Center & Showroom in Wakefield.
East Bay Faves
As the founder of a Rhode Island-based boutique interior design studio, Lowney knows her way around local coastal communities, including Barrington, where she loves to peruse the stacks at Barrington Books for both business and pleasure. Nearby Blue Kangaroo Cafe gives her all the cozy cafe vibes while she satisfies her sweet treat cravings at Sweet Lorraine’s Candy Shoppe. Her Barrington client concurs, while adding that a short trip to another favorite, Groundswell in Tiverton Four Corners, is worth the trek!
Lowney also felt compelled to give the aesthetic a clear sense of place. “Introducing the coastal color palette, layering in texture, and adding subtle coastal decor provide hints of the Rhode Island coastline,” she explains.
For the couple, the transformation celebrates everything they love about the home and living in Barrington. “We enjoy being active and outdoors, particularly on and near the water,” they say. “We love the kitchen/dining area and how open it feels with a view into the backyard. It’s probably where we spend the majority of our time in the house and is a great, open place for bringing people together.”
Inspired Closets Rhode Island A DiStefano Brothers
Rhody Reads
A crop of six new releases by and about strong women
By Deborah Goodrich Royce
Greetings, friends. We may have cold and rain and the occasional hurricane, but think of Rhode Island in spring as it bursts into vivid color — the crocuses and tulips, the forsythia, then the peonies, roses, and hydrangeas — and you, like me, will feel lucky indeed. Spring signals renewal in the natural world, and brings new book releases that offer a breath of fresh air.
On April 1, Maria Shriver publishes a deeply personal collection, I Am Maria: My Reflections and Poems on Heartbreak, Healing, and Finding Your Way Home . The book is an attempt to make sense of the darkest days we all have. I am always inspired by Shriver’s newsletter, The Sunday Paper . It beautifully balances daily concerns with loftier spiritual concepts. This collection is a wonderful continuation of Shriver’s uplifting expression of the search for meaning we all engage in.
If April 15 has you in a tax-time funk, escape with Abigail Dean’s The Death of Us . Psychological suspense meets crime drama in this story of a couple broken apart by a violent encounter with a serial killer, an event that exposed the hairline fractures that already existed under their marriage’s surface. Years later, they meet when the criminal is finally brought to trial, revealing the profoundly different effects the trauma has had on each of them.
The delightful Marie Bostwick releases The Book Club for Troublesome Women on April 22. In 1960s suburban Virginia, Margaret Ryan is a woman who seemingly has it all. When a mysterious woman arrives in town, Margaret invites her to a contrived book club gathering and the results surprise everyone. Eventually calling themselves the Bettys, after Betty Friedan’s The Feminine Mystique , the women connect in deeper ways than they had ever imagined possible.
Personal trivia: I used to be an actress in film and television, then a story editor at Miramax. Back then, I knew Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas well. While I left that world years ago, Goldsmith-Thomas has been wildly successful in it. On April 29, she adds novelist to her list of credits with the release of Climbing in Heels , a sexy, fun romp about three secretaries at the hottest agency in 1980s Hollywood who climb the corporate ladder – in heels no less!
On May 13, Ocean Vuong returns with The Emperor of Gladness , a deeply moving novel about a chosen family, unexpected friendship, and self-understanding. In East Gladness, a post-industrial Connecticut town, a teenage boy meets an elderly widow when she interrupts his intended suicide. The two connect with a life-altering bond that saves the boy and makes him a caregiver. A brave epic that delves into history, memory, and time, the novel reckons with the wounds that haunt our collective soul.
The Martha’s Vineyard Beach and Book Club by Martha Hall Kelly comes out on May 27 and it promises to be loads of fun. Inspired by true events, the novel follows a modern-day woman who travels to the island to grieve the loss of her mother. From a famous painting teacher, she learns the tale of two sisters who lived there during World War II and found hope in the power of storytelling when they started a wartime book club for women.
ABOUT DEBORAH GOODRICH ROYCE
Deborah Goodrich Royce’s Reef Road , a national bestseller, was named one of the best books of 2023 by Kirkus Reviews and an Indie Next pick by the ABA. With fellow authors, Luanne Rice and Amy Scheibe, she created the Deer Mountain Writers’ Retreat in the Catskills. Royce holds a bachelor’s degree and two honorary doctorates from both Lake Erie College and the University of Rhode Island. With her husband, Chuck, the Royces have restored the Avon Theatre, Ocean House, Deer Mountain Inn, United Theatre, Martin House Books, and numerous Main Street revitalization projects in RI and the Catskills; additionally, she serves on multiple governing and advisory boards. Royce began as an actress on All My Children and in multiple films, before transitioning to the role of story editor at Miramax Films, developing Emma and early versions of Chicago and A Wrinkle in Time . Royce contributes quarterly to “Rhody Reads.”
OCEAN HOUSE AUTHOR SERIES
Please consider patronizing your local independent bookstore when making book purchases.
In partnership with Martin House Books and WCRI-FM, the Ocean House brings world-class authors like Sarah Ferguson, Chris Bohjalian, and Katie Couric, to Watch Hill. A slate of salon-style conversations is in the works for the upcoming season; for now, save the date for May 21 and join Fiona Davis when she discusses her newest, The Stolen Queen with Royce. Learn more at OceanHouseRI.com.
Meet Tamara Gruber
Travel content creator shares top trips and places to satisfy wanderlust at home
By Elyse Major
You are a writer, podcast co-host, and have two websites, all devoted to travel. Tell us more!
I started We3Travel in 2013 because I love planning trips and wanted to share my itineraries and tips with other families to make their vacation planning easier. I’m passionate about the benefits of family travel, which is why even now I serve on the board of the Family Travel Association. But as my daughter grew up, I found that I was able to take some time for myself and wanted to encourage more women to overcome mom guilt and fulfill their travel dreams, whether that be with their partner, friends, or solo; that’s the inspiration for Your Time to Fly. For eight years, I’ve also co-hosted a travel podcast called Vacation Mavens , covering destinations and travel tips, and just launched a YouTube channel. I love the podcast because we get comments all the time from listeners telling us how they feel like they are sitting down with friends when they listen to us.
What has been your favorite trip and why?
I’m going to cheat and name three. First, our trip to Spain when my daughter was eight, will always hold a special place in my heart because it was our first international trip. We did so much to prepare, from introducing foods to learning some Spanish, and even reading Don Quixote ! It paid off to see the delight and joy in her eyes, especially when ordering food in Spanish, and it ignited my passion for family travel. For an outdoor adventure destination, Iceland was my clear favorite, and for city/ culture, our recent visit to Japan was unmatched. We still find ourselves talking about the foods we loved and the experiences we had.
Dubrovnik
photo by Valentina_by_Flytographer.
Photos courtesy of Tamara Gruber
What are places in Rhode Island that give you a sense of being far away?
For a small state, we have such diversity and it doesn’t take long to get out of my suburban Cumberland bubble, whether it is watching the cows being milked at Wright’s Dairy Farm or seeing the fishing boats in Galilee. My favorite spot is Beavertail State Park; while it’s quintessentially Rhode Island, it’s also so easy to dream about places across the sea as you sit on the rocks and watch the waves. To recapture the tastes of travel, I head to Providence. Favorite places include Aleppo Sweets, a cozy tea shop with excellent Syrian food and baklava; Providence Noodle Bar, which reminds me of the small restaurants in Tokyo; I’m in love with the hand-pulled noodles and Uyghur cuisine at Jahunger; and when Kow Kow has bubble waffles with mango sticky rice flavor ice cream, I can’t get there fast enough. I also get a kick out of visiting international markets like Maruichi Japanese Market.
What advice do you have for Rhode Islanders looking to travel more?
Luckily we live within driving distance of so many states and fun destinations. Start with day trips then try some weekend getaways, and don’t let inertia or fear of the unknown stop you from trying something new. The more you open yourself up to new experiences, the more you will want to see and do. We are also lucky to have some great budget airline options flying out of TF Green that make getting away a little easier. Learn more at We3Travel.com and follow along on upcoming trips to Peru and Chile on Instagram at @yourtimetofly.
NEW to MARKET
Tamara Grubner in Dubrovnik, Croatia (left), and closer to home in Newport
Merch Madness
Pregame the NCAA championship with swag from Providence shops
By Jenna Kaplan
March Madness is rolling into the Amica Mutual Pavilion, and hoops hysteria is in full-court press. So get ready, whether courtside or couch-bound, with slam-dunk gear that screams team spirit. Think retro-style sweatshirts for old-school cool, tumblers laser-etched with classic Rhode Island graphics to toast each buzzer-beater, and even a Friars-colored hat to keep your head warm and stylish in March’s mercurial weather. Local businesses are in on the action with one-of-a-kind finds that blend sporty chic with a dash of Rhode Island flair. Don’t strike out on style while you’re cheering on the teams that will take over the AMP this month.
INSULATED TUMBLER
Frog & Toad, 795 Hope Street & 713 Westminster Street
Craftland, 212 Westminster Street
The Matchbox, 163 Brook Street
of Hearts and Modern Lo v e, 222 Westminster Street
T-SHIRT
HOODED SWEATSHIRT
HAT
Queen
Savor Sip Enjoy
Complimentary hor d’oeuvres and a buffet. Plus desserts from Artisan Bites & More a complimentary drink (one per guest)
Music all night from WRIK Entertainment and a live performance from Ballet RI
Tickets are limited, Grab yours while they last at HeyRhody.com or scan the QR code to purchase!
SCAN FOR TICKETS
THE EVENT FACTORY KITCHEN & STAGE 144 Metro Center Blvd, Warwick
TICKETS $30 AT March 27 th 6-9PM OUR SPONSORS
LEADING LADIES
inspiring, passionate, determined leaders who are making a difference in our communities
I joined AAF WEALTH MANAGEMENT in 2016, and since that time the firm’s assets under management have grown organically over 300%. I attribute this growth to our role as fiduciaries and our holistic, personalized approach in managing clients’ financial lives—a commitment I made when earning my CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) professional certification.
In introductory meetings, clients share feelings of reluctance about asking questions or expressing concerns to their advisor. Some mention hesitating to discuss topics like access to their own funds or requesting consultations beyond standard investmentfocused conversations, fearing their concerns might not be well-received. Financial planning often involves sensitive topics, including health, legacy planning, and life transitions. I strive to build an environment where clients feel comfortable asking questions and sharing their concerns, knowing they will be met with respect and thoughtful guidance. This approach emphasizes meaningful engagement and proactive communication, ensuring clients are well-informed and supported at every stage of their financial journey. As a result, clients often feel more confident and empowered to make decisions that align with their values and long-term goals.
I strive to be approachable and provide more than just numbers. It’s about addressing clients’ personal and financial needs—whether it’s investment performance or tax planning—so they feel supported and understood. This approach has helped me build trust and lasting relationships across generations.
Financial planning is a holistic endeavor that should be tailored to each client’s unique needs. I want to delve beyond the numbers! It’s important to focus on long-term financial goals, such as tax, retirement, estate planning, and charitable giving.
A notable feature of AAF Wealth Management is our ability to effectively collaborate across multiple generations. The firm works with many families to address the financial needs of parents, children, and grandchildren as part of the planning process. This approach ensures that each generation’s financial needs and goals are met effectively.
AAF Wealth Management affiliates with parent company, AAFCPAs, to integrate comprehensive tax and estate planning services when appropriate. In addition, our CFP® background encompasses holistic financial planning, including charitable
giving, social security benefits, insurance, and much more. We continue to invest in state-of-the-art technology to offer clients meaningful insight into their tax situations and align these with their broader financial goals.
My success has been built on my ability to be approachable and provide practical solutions to clients’ financial challenges. I focus not just on investment performance but also on offering a wellrounded perspective of clients’ financial health. Clients value my down-to-earth nature and dedication to addressing concerns, no matter how complex.
In summary, my journey at AAF Wealth Management is a story of growth, dedication, and a holistic approach to financial planning. My ability to connect with clients on a personal level and provide comprehensive financial insights has made me a trusted advisor to many.
I strive to be approachable and provide more than just numbers. It’s about addressing clients’ personal and financial needs— whether it’s investment performance or tax planning—so they feel supported and understood. This approach has helped me build trust and lasting relationships across generations.
My wife and I are residents of Tiverton, RI and enjoy all the region has to offer. When not seeking attunement with my clients, I pursue my passion for music, vintage turntables, golf, squash, pickleball, travel, and outdoor adventure.
Dr. Alyssa Findley’s practice is built on a foundation of expertise, precision, and a deep-rooted commitment to patient well-being. As the leader of FINDLEY DERMATOLOGY, she specializes in Mohs micrographic and reconstructive surgery for skin cancer and offers a comprehensive range of surgical and cosmetic dermatology services. Her approach blends cutting-edge techniques with compassion, ensuring every patient receives the highest standard of care. Mohs surgery, a highly specialized treatment for skin cancer, is at the core of Dr. Findley’s practice. This advanced procedure combines surgical precision, pathology, and reconstruction in a single visit, offering the highest cure rates while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. Patients not only leave cancer-free but also experience superior
functional and cosmetic outcomes. With fellowship training in Mohs surgery and complex reconstruction, Dr. Findley is among a select few in the region skilled in performing this procedure. She has extensive experience in treating highcomplexity cancers, and she is one of the few experts in the region practicing Mohs surgery for melanoma.
“As a fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon, I’m passionate about educating my patients on the importance of choosing a surgeon with advanced training. Fellowship-level instruction in Mohs surgery, cutaneous oncology, and reconstruction ensures the safest and best possible outcomes for patients,” Dr. Findley explains.
Dr. Findley earned her medical degree from Tufts University School of Medicine and completed an internal medicine internship, dermatology
residency, and surgical fellowship in Mohs surgery. She is dual board-certified in general dermatology and Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery and is a fellow of the American College of Mohs Surgery (ACMS). Over the past decade, she has performed thousands of Mohs procedures, establishing herself as a trusted expert in her field.
The opportunity to form lasting relationships with my patients while doing work I’m passionate about is incredibly gratifying.
At Findley Dermatology, patientcentered care is her top priority. The team strives to create a comfortable and welcoming experience, using local anesthesia to ensure patient ease while building meaningful connections. “The opportunity to form lasting relationships with my patients while doing work I’m passionate about is incredibly gratifying,” she says.
Beyond skin cancer care, Dr. Findley offers cosmetic dermatology services designed to help patients look and feel their best. She tailors her approach to each individual, offering Botox, fillers, PRP, microneedling, chemical peels, and various laser treatments, helping them achieve a refreshed, confident appearance. “When patients feel good in their skin, it truly shows,” she says.
Dr. Findley also advocates for proactive care, urging everyone to schedule a fullbody skin exam with a board-certified dermatologist. Early detection of skin cancer or other issues can save lives.
With her extensive training, patient-first philosophy, and dedication to excellence, Dr. Alyssa Findley is a trusted partner in dermatological care—combining empathy, expertise, and precision to deliver outstanding results.
1275 Wampanoag Trail Suite 6 East Providence, RI 415-8586, FindleyDerm.com
THE DESIGN TEAM AT RIKB DESIGN BUILD
For over 35 years, RIKB DESIGN BUILD has set the standard for innovative design and exceptional craftsmanship across Southern New England. Renowned for their awardwinning expertise and creative approach, RIKB transforms homes into spaces as functional as they are beautiful, delivering inspired solutions for every remodeling project.
“We believe a home should reflect the homeowner’s personality and style and be designed to function for the way they live,” says Tanya Donahue, owner and president. “I’m honored whenever a client chooses us to bring their vision to life.”
At the heart of RIKB’s success is collaboration. Every project begins with a commitment to meeting clients exactly where they are in life. Whether it’s a young family creating a gathering space, homeowners who love entertaining, those caring for aging loved ones, or individuals planning for their future, RIKB designs with intention. Their team crafts spaces that adapt to unique needs while blending creativity, technical expertise, and attention to detail.
RIKB’s talented designers—Tanya Donahue, Emily High, Stephanie Castellucci, Kelly May Enos, Ellen Ovalles, Kingsley Catalucci, Sandra Michaels, Erika Pearson, and Kim Gammell—serve as the bridge between a client’s vision and the finished space. They
are exceptional listeners and problem solvers who work closely with clients to bring their ideas to life. Partnering with the technical design and production teams, the designers ensure every element of the project reflects the client’s lifestyle and aesthetic.
We believe a home should reflect the homeowner’s personality and style and be designed to function for the way they live
“Our designers are the cornerstone of our process,” says Donahue, “Their ability to combine vision, integrity, and precision allows us to build beautiful spaces and lasting relationships with our clients.”
From kitchen makeovers and spa-like bathrooms to whole-home renovations and multi-generational spaces, RIKB’s portfolio reflects the diversity of its clients’ needs. They also excel in smaller-scale projects, ofering everything from cosmetic updates to small additions. The team’s Design-Build approach integrates every aspect of the process—
design, technical planning, and construction— under one roof, providing clients with one point of contact and a seamless, stress-free experience from start to finish.
Visit RIKB’s Design Center to spark ideas and explore the latest trends. This dynamic space features thoughtfully curated kitchen and bath displays that showcase innovative designs, materials, and layouts. For those seeking insights and inspiration, RIKB ofers complimentary design seminars, where its experts share the latest trends and insider tips for remodeling projects.
RIKB has been recognized as one of the Best Places to Work in Rhode Island by Providence Business News for seven consecutive years (2018–2024) and is the only Rhode Island contractor featured on the prestigious Remodeling 550 list. It has built a reputation for quality, style, and exceptional customer service.
Whether you envision a simple update or a complete home transformation, RIKB Design Build is here to bring your vision to life.
To learn more, visit RIKB.com, register for an upcoming seminar, schedule a consultation, or call 401-463-1550.
Jaclyn Vargas Founder
“My work is not just a career – it’s my calling,” says Jaclyn Vargas, who was driven to pursue a path of healing after first taking her own personal steps to improve her wellness. Faced with a diagnosis of autoimmune issues in 2011 and later, a late-stage Lyme disease diagnosis, Jaclyn embarked on a journey to explore holistic remedies. The transformative therapies she discovered played a pivotal role in her healing, deeply inspiring her to share these powerful tools with others. This passion to support others in reclaiming their health led her to create SANCTUARY SAUNA STUDIO & WELLNESS – an inviting space designed for relaxation, healing, and prevention, where individuals can discover a holistic approach to wellness.
Sanctuary provides services that benefit individuals with chronic illnesses and autoimmunity, as well as those focused on relaxation, recovery, wellness, and longevity. “People come in not because they’re sick, but because they want to stay healthy,” Jaclyn shares. “Whether it’s treating symptoms, working on optimal function, or simply relieving stress and decompressing, these are investments in a longer, healthier life.”
The therapies ofered at Sanctuary have been carefully selected for their studied holistic benefits and include infrared sauna, cold immersion therapy, red light therapy, halotherapy, aromatherapy, compression boot therapy, Reiki, Reiki drumming, and sound healing. Each of these modalities is designed to support the body’s natural healing processes, which all contribute to Jaclyn’s goal of facilitating tangible transformations in individuals’ health and well-being. “Just one hour of relaxation can make a big diference in how you feel and function,” adds Jaclyn. “And over time, regular sessions help to keep you feeling balanced and energized.”
Jaclyn brings years of professional experience and certifications to her work. As a seasoned Reiki Master and lifelong learner in energy healing, she combines her personal healing journey with her expertise in holistic health. “This is the work I was meant to do, and I’m deeply grateful to live it,” she reflects. “I get to witness profound changes in the lives of my clients, helping them reclaim their health, find peace, and live with more vitality.”
At Sanctuary, clients discover a welcoming space to restore balance, find relief, and reconnect with their well-being, no matter their challenges. Jaclyn acts as a compassionate guide throughout their wellness journeys, empowering them through the example of her own story. “I’m most proud of never giving up and continually seeking what makes me whole and fulfilled,” she shares. “Creating Sanctuary has been the culmination of that search. Seeing clients experience real transformations fills me with pride.”
Exciting growth is underway at Sanctuary, with the upcoming addition of a new location in Warren, RI. “I’m thrilled about this new chapter and the opportunities it will bring,” Jaclyn says. “This next step will allow for more healing modalities, workshops, and opportunities for growth as I continue supporting individuals on their wellness journeys.”
Jaclyn emphasizes that wellness begins with self-care, not as a luxury but as an essential foundation for a fulfilling life. “It’s not selfish to take time for yourself – it’s an important investment in your mind, body, spirit, and future,” she urges. “As I always say, ‘The best thing you can give yourself is a little bit of your own attention.”
580 Wood Street Bristol, 401-598-6459, SanctuaryWellnessLLC.com
SONYA DEPASQUALE Sales Associate
259 County Road, Barrington, 401-465-1650, SonyaDepasquale.com
MEREDITH BROWER Director & Market Manager
As a dedicated Sales Associate at RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES, LTD, Sonya DePasquale brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for helping clients navigate the real estate market. Licensed in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, she specializes in Military on the Move, relocation services, and also holds prestigious recognitions, including the Greater Providence Board of Realtors Circle of Excellence and the Rising Star award from Five Star Professional.
Sonya’s real estate journey began in property management and home renovations, providing her with a unique perspective on market value, home potential, and investment opportunities. “I’ve completed numerous renovations, which has given me a keen eye for quality and what truly adds value to a home,” she shares. This hands-on experience, paired with her problem-solving skills and detail-oriented approach, allows her to guide clients with confidence and precision.
“I form close bonds with my clients and personally oversee every aspect of the transaction,” Sonya says. Her commitment
to honesty, integrity, and exceeding client expectations has earned her a reputation as a trusted advisor in Rhode Island and southern Massachusetts. Whether working with first-time buyers, relocating families, or seasoned investors, she remains dedicated to making every transaction seamless, stress-free, and rewarding.
A longtime resident of Rhode Island’s East Bay, Sonya has an extensive knowledge of the area–especially South County, where she spends summers. This local expertise gives her clients an advantage in an evolving market. Looking ahead to 2025, she anticipates exciting opportunities: “It will be a great time to buy or sell, and I’m here to help clients navigate the changing landscape with confidence.”
Beyond real estate, Sonya is an active community member and an engaged sponsor of many local organizations. Her dedication to both her clients and her community underscores her commitment to excellence. Whether buying or selling, Sonya is ready to turn real estate goals into reality with expertise, passion, and personal care.
Since launching in 2020, the TIVERTON FARMERS MARKET (TFM) has become a community staple, bringing together a wide variety of independent food businesses, makers, and artists at two separate summer and winter locations. At the heart of it is Meredith Brower, a practicing eco-artist who nimbly orchestrates the growing market, which not only celebrates five years this season but also adds a second mid-week market at a new location this summer.
“It is a fast-paced and ever-changing entity,” she says, describing the many roles managing a market requires, from vendor relations and market logistics to grant writing and social media. “As the world and our food system changes, we have to bob and weave to stay relevant and competitive, too.”
Along with weekly Sunday markets, Meredith curates specialty editions including the Strawberry Shortcake Social in June and the Garlic Roast in October, championing local farm harvests. Connecting with and uplifting vendors is her favorite part of
the job. “Their commitment to their craft is what makes the market,” she says. “Without these small business owners and entrepreneurs, we wouldn’t have such a robust and thriving event.”
The TFM is collaborating with Sakonnet Vineyards in Little Compton to introduce a second market, called the Sakonnet Green Market, which will be held Thursday afternoons from 3-6pm, June 19 through August 28. “We hope to bring our community closer together at the beautiful grounds of the vineyard,” says Meredith. “Patrons can safely shop the market and visit the tasting room to sample and buy their wines.”
No matter which market you choose (or both!), a visit ofers a great way to find all the locally grown and made foods you could need, along with inviting authentic connections with fellow neighbors and makers, all in one place. As Meredith explains, “It gives people a chance to be social, learn about where their food comes from, and meet local producers. It really is the whole experience!”
SAMANTHA KENNEDY Owner
At SUNNYSIDE PASTA, Samantha Kennedy transforms the act of making fresh, homemade pasta into an art form. A Connecticut native with a profound love for culinary traditions, Samantha discovered her passion for pasta-making as a child, rolling dough with her family every Christmas Eve. “Every year, we’d make pounds of fresh pasta for dinner,” she recalls fondly. That cherished tradition sparked a lifelong devotion to food that ultimately shaped her career path.
After earning a degree in culinary arts from Johnson & Wales University, Samantha turned her passion into a thriving business. She sells her artisanal pasta at the Tiverton Farmers Market, where her oferings are a local favorite. She also leads hands-on pasta-making workshops at Hope & Main in Warren, teaching participants how to craft their own dishes. “There’s nothing more rewarding than presenting a bowl of fresh pasta to a hungry
participant,” she says with enthusiasm. In her classes, Samantha inspires students to embrace the craft of pasta-making.
“Once you try fresh pasta, you’ll never go back to boxed,” she promises. For Samantha, passion, like pasta, is best when shared.
691 Main Street, Warren, 203-856-2314, Instagram: @sunnysidepasta
SAYLES LIVINGSTON Owner
3855 Main Road, Tiverton, 401-635-9500, SaylesLivingstonDesign.com
Sayles Livingston, the creative force behind the renowned Sayles Livingston Design, is expanding her entrepreneurial horizons with the much-anticipated spring opening of SAYLES LIVINGSTON HOME. This new venture blends Sayles’ established expertise in crafting distinctive event designs with her passion for curating beautiful living spaces.
Sayles Livingston Home promises to be a treasure trove of inspiration, ofering an exquisite collection of interior and outdoor furniture, one-of-a-kind decor and accessories, and exclusive design pieces. The carefully curated selection will also include antique finds, fresh flowers, and charming container gardens, all reflecting Sayles’ discerning eye and commitment to creating captivating environments.
Sayles’ journey to this exciting new chapter is paved with a rich tapestry of experiences and accomplishments. Her work with Sayles Livingston Design has garnered widespread recognition, including features in over 50 national magazines, television appearances, and numerous prestigious awards.
With degrees from Brown University and the University of Rhode Island, and an MFA
ETHEL
“SNOOKY” VIVEIROS
Owner and Baker
Ethel “Snooky” Viveiros, owner and baker at SNOOKY’S COOKIES, blends passion and creativity in every batch. “I really enjoy getting in the zone of baking–it’s relaxing,” she says. Known for crafting delicious, guilt-free cookies without flour or butter, she takes pride in her innovative flavors, including a s’mores-inspired treat and a coconut snowball delight. Dedicated to health-conscious baking, she constantly explores the benefits of oats and gluten-free options. “Always keep learning,” she advises. “Your health and well-being are so important!”
Tiverton, 401-418-0644, SnookysCookies.com
program currently in progress, Sayles’ diverse academic foundation has nurtured her talents as a writer, artist, and trained horticulturalist. Her role as a real estate agent for Compass deepens her understanding of the interplay between design and living spaces. A devoted mother of four, Sayles recognizes the importance of creating spaces that are both beautiful and functional. Her meticulous attention to detail ensures that every project results in a truly enchanting outcome.
Reflecting on her company’s 35-year legacy, Sayles emphasizes the core values that have driven her success: unwavering belief in one’s product, genuine care for one’s team, and an unwavering commitment to clients’ needs. These guiding principles will continue to shape her approach with Sayles Livingston Home.
With her innate design sense, business acumen, and wealth of experience, Sayles Livingston Home is poised to be a resounding success. This new venture represents a natural evolution of her creative vision, and promises to delight and inspire clients seeking to infuse their homes with beauty, elegance, and a touch of magic.
ASHLEY BOVE Founder
“I’ve never been one to follow the crowd,” says Ashley, whose former job as a realtor by day and blackjack dealer by night was upended when she was struck by a drunk driver. Her resilience led to starting a career in finance, climbing the ladder, and then – after getting married, buying a home, and becoming a mother – making another career pivot, founding ARTISAN BITES.
“It started as a simple love for charcuterie, an artistic outlet that combined my passion for food, design, and bringing people together,” Ashley says. When her husband suggested she sell her creations, she humored the idea by sharing a few photos on Instagram, and to her surprise had $1,300 in orders by the first week. Her passion project quickly snowballed into traveling the state by food truck crafting beautiful boards, grazing tables, and more.
From hosting classes to crafting culinary spreads of fresh, local ingredients, her mission has always been to curate authentic, meaningful experiences for her clients to connect with loved ones over cheeses and meats. “Little Ashley, the girl who didn’t fit the mold, would be proud. I’ve built something that’s uniquely mine – a business born from passion, resilience, and a refusal to settle.”
NIKOLAI BLINOW, LMHC
Licensed Mental Health Counselor & Life Coach
“I’ve always been a high-achiever,” says Nikolai Blinow, “but I’ve also always struggled with slowing down and enjoying the calm within the chaos.” She opened OMPOWERMENT PSYCHOTHERAPY to help neurodivergent entrepreneurs and executives, many of whom received ADHD diagnoses late in life, find balance in their lives and prevent burnout. A therapist and coach with a master’s degree in mental health counseling, Nikolai empowers clients to identify behaviors that don’t serve them, cultivate self-compassion, and take ownership of their success.
774-713-8703, OMPowermentPsych.com
in both Rhode Island and Massachusetts, Bailey carries on her family’s legacy while making her own mark. She helps clients buy, sell, rent, and manage Airbnbs with a passion for matching people to their perfect homes. “There’s nothing more rewarding than helping someone find a place to call home,” she says, bringing dedication and heart to every transaction.
3948 Main Road, Tiverton, 401-266-4645, TLHolland.com
401-688-5812, ArtisanBitesRI.com
ELAINE FELAG President and Owner
For over 43 years, Elaine Felag has helped women feel confident, stylish, and empowered as the president and owner of FEMININE FANCIES in Barrington. Her love for fashion took root in high school while working at Cherry & Webb in the lingerie and women’s clothing department.
After earning a degree from Providence College and spending years as a social worker, she followed her passion and opened Feminine Fancies – a boutique designed to feel like a fashion getaway. “I want every woman to feel at home, comfortable, and confident,” she says. “And most of all, to have fun while shopping!”
Customers rely on her styling expertise, often insisting they “need her” to complete their look. Her keen eye has earned multiple Best of RI awards, and she takes pride in curating outfits that bring endless compliments. Even after rebuilding from a devastating fire, she remains devoted to
the customers she considers family. Beyond fashion, Elaine thrives as a swing dance enthusiast, exercise advocate, and spray paint artist. “We’re always dancing at Feminine Fancies,” she says. “Come join us!”
290 County Road, Barrington, 401-247-1087, femininefancies.com, Instagram: @femininefanciesri
Real estate is a family tradition for Bailey Holland, whose grandmother founded T.L. HOLLAND AGENCY in 1966. Licensed
BAILEY HOLLAND Realtor
THE LEADING LADIES OF HEY RHODY MEDIA CO.
HEY RHODY MEDIA CO. is the locally owned publishing company of four awardwinning monthly magazines: Providence Monthly, So Rhode Island, The Bay, and Hey Rhody. The free publications reach over 200,000 educated, afuent, and engaged readers every month through their free locally focused publications and web/social content. They are constantly expanding their oferings by listening to their readership/advertisers and adding content types to fit their needs. Bringing the best of food, arts, culture, fashion and much more, in a uniquely Ocean State voice.
Additionally there are websites, social media pages, Hey Rhody Weekly on YouTube, and a podcast, all produced by a small but mighty team of editors, graphic designers, and a seasoned sales force to make it all happen.
Abigail Brown, Senior Editorial Designer: Abby joined Hey Rhody Media Co. in 2019. Her talent for design quickly led to taking the lead in laying out every article, cover story, and cover for all four magazines each month. You may also see her name attached to original illustrations.
Taylor Buttie, Senior Graphic Designer: Taylor, who recently got married in September 2024, and whose wedding was featured in the February Hey Rhody Wedding Guide , uses her talents to design ads, rate cards and sell sheets for the
company, and occasionally assists with editorial design. “We all work together as one big family, constantly supporting and motivating us all to be a better company.”
Shelley Cavoli, Account Manager for Central RI and Providence: Along with being devoted to her sales territory, Shelley helms New Business Development where she works to create advanced opportunities to engage with businesses across the state. “Everyday I see clients discover ways to be successful, I’m proud to be part of their success.”
Louann DiMuccio-Darwich, Account Manager for East Bay & Providence: Louann has been with Hey Rhody Media Co. for 17 years. Known for her warm demeanor, she has a long history of developing strong relationships with clients. “I am blessed to work with an amazing team and local business community.”
Ann Gallagher, Account Manager for South County: Ann has been with Hey Rhody Media Co. for 17 years serving her seaside beat of South County. “I love that I can shop and support local businesses while also helping them get their message out through our magazines. It’s so gratifying to see small businesses prosper with our help.”
Jenna Kaplan, Digital Media Specialist: Since joining the team in 2023, Jenna has taken our socials in new directions,
boosting engagement and reviving the blog. Additionally she is part of the creative force behind our e-newsletter, and co-hosts both the Hey Rhody Podcast and Hey Rhody Weekly YouTube show.
Abbie Lahmers, Managing Editor: After joining the editorial team in 2019, Abbie was promoted to managing editor in 2021. She oversees all Food & Drink sections, writes and edits long-form features, and curates Neighborhood News, along with writing sponsored content and supporting the e-newsletter.
Elyse Major, Editor-in-Chief: Since landing her dream job in 2018, Elyse has focused content on highlighting small businesses and makers. She develops and contributes writing for cover stories, articles for the News & Culture and Home & Style sections, and Rhody Gem columns.
Kristine Mangan Olf, Account Manager for South County & Aquidneck Island: For 14 years, Kristine has put her 30+ years of sales experience to helping any sized business grow and prosper. “It’s important for clients to know that we wholeheartedly support them and are always creating new products or services to help them succeed.”
1944 Warwick Avenue, Warwick, HeyRhody.com
Abigail Brown Taylor Buttie
Shelley Cavoli Louann DiMuccio-Darwich Ann Gallagher
Kristine Mangan Olf
Elyse Major Abbie Lahmers
Jenna Kaplan
FEATURE
The Feminine Mystique
From depicting motherhood to the impacts of war, feminist art is more important than ever
By Emily Olson
Before becoming the well-known artist-run space in Wakefield that it is today, Hera Gallery was the brainchild of a group of women connected to the University of Rhode Island seeking space for a consciousness-raising feminist activist group. It was 1974, and most held traditional roles as wives and mothers; they found this connection helped them maintain their identity outside of the home. Eventually, the founding members decided to start a gallery cooperative for underrepresented artists, and it was wildly successful. Women from Boston, New York, and Providence were lining up to be part of it and show their art at the gallery, which has had incredible longevity. It was one of the first women-run artist co-ops to open in the U.S., and the concept quickly became a popular one. Today, it continues to make innovative, contemporary art accessible to Rhode Island, and gives women artists both a community and an opportunity for artistic expression, but Hera Gallery is also one of only three of the original ‘70s-era gallery co-ops left in existence.
Hera Gallery celebrated its 50th anniversary last year
In the Gallery
Currently on view at Hera Gallery is solo exhibition Fragmented Planet featuring the work of Erin Starr, and Collaborations on the theme of connections by John Kotula. Watch for a show exploring the concept of “Care” opening May 10. 10 High Street, Wakefield, HeraGallery.org
“Because we’re artist-run, there’s no censorship to the artwork,” says Sonja Czekalski, former director of Hera Gallery and current member of the board. “Artists are free to make and express what they think is important.” She also praises the coop model. “Galleries can be intimidating to some artists, but because we have a non-hierarchical structure, Hera is a beautiful and nurturing space for artists to experience making and showing art.”
Czekalski has been making feminist art since she was 13. “I come from a family of strong women and it was important to me to make work that shared those stories,” she says. As a teen, she would take art classes at school and then head home to make clothes, knit, or quilt with her grandmother. “She’d teach me a certain stitch and then I’d go off pattern and make something else. She’d insist I stick to the pattern, but I liked taking these
traditional craft forms and playing with them, extending them, and breaking them a bit.”
She went back and forth between two-dimensional figurative studies and fiber art until she was in grad school and realized she could combine the two art forms. “There was an artist at the Rhode Island School of Design whose MFA was in painting, but she was making beautiful embroideries. Through her, I learned how you can use fiber to mix colors and paint. She taught me how to make paper, natural dyes, and natural materials.”
Czekalski’s foray into creating sustainable art materials set her on a new path. “I was thinking about the connection between feminism and climate change, and how climate change impacts women and families, yet comes from this patriarchal capitalist culture. How can I talk about this work when I’m using toxic paint
Czekalski’s
or plastic paint brushes? So I started being more conscious about my materials and making things from plants or recycled materials. I don’t buy anything I don’t have to.”
Czekalski currently has an exhibition on display at Hera called Guilty by Association that explores witchcraft and women’s health. The works are about abortion, birth control, menstruation, mental health, and ignorance surrounding women’s symptoms. “Any show I put together starts with telling women’s stories,” she says. “Right now, all my friends are getting pregnant or trying not to get pregnant, so these are the conversations I’m having every day.”
She’s also working on a two-person exhibition in partnership with another Hera artist. “It’s about the color pink,” she says. “I don’t know if it’s about the fun side of feminism because I
Sonja
“Pick Your Poison”
Photo and art by Sonja Czekalski
don’t know if there is one, but I definitely use more glitter and sequins.”
A member artist at Hera, Carrie Usmar, who has also shown works at the Newport Art Museum, is a mixed visual artist who works in photography, film, and embroidery, and many of her themes are centered on motherhood. “I used to write a lot,” she says. “That was my outlet for my big focus, which is not feeling alone and helping others not feel alone.” As a mother of small children, Osmar often felt isolated. “I was going to the library and doing kid stuff, but there was a lack of a deeper connection. That’s why my work focuses on the things people don’t talk about. I think when people are open and honest about their experiences, it’s easier to connect on a deeper level.”
Usmar’s recent photography project, Resume
of a Stay at Home Mom , turns the traditional family album on its head. Photos of her interacting with her children in everyday ways are paired with text you might find on an employment application, such as “always available” or “leads complex processes.”
“The chaos, beauty, and stress of motherhood can be a lot, and making helps me go to another place and then come back.” Her current project, which is about motherhood and gardening, allows her to do that both literally and figuratively. “I go to my garden to escape,” she says. “The garden tasks take me to another place and then bring me back to myself.”
Minoo Emami is an Iranian artist and adjunct professor at Roger Williams University in Bristol. Her work, which has been collected privately and within the permanent collection
“Neverending Story” by Carrie Usmar
Photo by Carrie Usmar
Learn more about the artists and see their work by visiting their websites:
Sonja Czekalski: SonjaCzekalski.com
Minoo Emami: EmamiMinoo.com
Carrie Usmar: CarrieUsmar.com
of the Newport Art Museum, explores the intergenerational impact of war and how it impacts women’s lives. Like Usmar, she often lands on caretaking and a deep need for connection. Emami grew up in Iran during the revolution and was married to a veteran, so her early life experiences were heavily influenced by war. “I started repetitively painting prostheses because they were common household objects in my life. Military service is mandatory for men over 18, and many veterans lost limbs,” she says describing her war series of paintings.
Emami’s work evolved and she eventually began to include women in her paintings. “I created a series with female arms and legs in the paintings. From there, I did a piece that included my daughter’s hand, my mother’s hand, and
my sister’s hand, holding a limb that doesn’t exist. It’s about how females are responsible as caregivers to deal with the physical and emotional problems that result from war.”
In 2013, Emami began working on sculpture using preowned prostheses. “These objects are worn out,” she explains. “There are marks and imperfections. They carry the history of the person who wore it.” As she worked on these pieces, she used her network to connect with other women impacted by war, and asked them to share their stories with her. “Influenced by their stories, I wanted to transform these objects of pain and suffering into a beautiful art piece that symbolized resilience, power, and adaptation,” she says. “Eventually, I asked these women to come to my studio and spend time with me. We were like an
elected family connected deeply through shared pain, and I cherished their presence. Showing my work to them celebrated their resilience and let them see the spark of what they survived. We transformed our trauma to something strong, like sisterhood, like a celebration of how they lived through life carrying their partner’s, their father’s, their son’s pain. Nursing and healing them is such a natural power of women. I hope that we don’t forget to do this for ourselves, too.”
Even though she now lives in the United States, Emami continues to stay close to her network of women in Iran and she is proud of the strength of the women there who are fighting to rise up under patriarchy. “Social and political movements in Iran are like water,” she says. “You can’t hold back water. It finds its way.”
“Birth of Venus,” 2014, by Minoo Emami; acrylic on canvas, 72 x 50 inches
Photo and art copyright Minoo Emami
FOOD & DRINK
In The Kitchen | Experience | Food News
The Art of Pasta-Making
From holiday dinners with family to crafting fettucini with neighbors, a food business born out of optimism
By Kennedy Ryan
For Samantha Kennedy, pasta-making has always been more than a skill to be honed; it’s a cherished family tradition. Growing up, her parents hosted elaborate Christmas Eve dinners featuring multi-course meals. “My dad was big on the Italian dishes – fish, meat, and of course, homemade pasta,” she recalls. As the gatherings grew from intimate family dinners to celebrations with more than 20 relatives, Kennedy found herself increasingly drawn to the craft of pasta-making. “It was something I grew up doing and enjoyed it.”
When the pandemic hit, Kennedy, like many, faced career uncertainty. Working as a paralegal at a law firm, she was laid off and later brought back, but the instability of the situation made her reevaluate her path. “I needed to do something else,” she explains. “I couldn’t rely on maybe being able to work or not.” With time on her hands, she rekindled a lifelong passion and decided to turn it into a business. After researching local resources, she connected with Hope & Main, a food business incubator in Warren, and Sunnyside Pasta was born.
Today, Kennedy produces handmade pasta at Hope & Main and sells it at the Tiverton Farmers Market, which, she explains, has been incredible for her business. “Meredith Brower, who runs it, is so nice, and the market draws a good crowd every Sunday,” says Kennedy. “I love that it’s not just food – there’s a mix of vendors, which creates a great atmosphere.” Though she’s not at the market every week, Sunnyside’s presence has become a highlight for food lovers.
“Homemade pasta isn’t just food – it’s an experience,” insists Kennedy. In addition to selling it, she teaches pasta-making classes at Hope & Main. “Teaching is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do. Watching people go from having no idea what they’re doing to getting into the
zone by the end of the class is amazing.”
Her classes emphasize the approachability and joy of making homemade pasta – anyone can do it. “Once you perfect homemade pasta, there’s no better feeling,” Kennedy says. “It’s the gift that keeps on giving. People are always wowed by it.” She’s especially interested in finding ways to empower her students to continue pursuing the craft. “If I can teach someone to make dough perfectly, they can do anything they want with it.”
Kennedy’s pasta menu is a blend of traditional favorites and creative cuts. “Everyone loves fettuccine,” she notes, but she also offers pasta sheets for lasagna or ravioli, allowing her customers to get creative in their own kitchens. She experiments constantly, spending at least
10 hours a week making pasta at Hope & Main or perfecting new pasta shapes at home. Her family – including her 10-year-old son – are enthusiastic taste testers. “Thankfully, they’re not sick of pasta yet!” she says with a laugh. Starting Sunnyside Pasta was a leap of faith, and Kennedy encourages others to follow their dreams without hesitation. “Just do it,” she advises. “Don’t let that voice in your head say you’re not ready. It’s never the right time to do something like this. For me, the worst thing would have been wondering 10 years from now, ‘What if?’”
Stay up to date about upcoming markets, classes, and new offerings by following on Instagram: @sunnysidepasta.
P hoto courtesy of Sunnyside Pasta
Fresh-made farfalle
Samantha Kennedy prepping pasta at Hope & Main
Tea Time
Warren’s new spot for light bites and sips is like stepping into a fairy tale book
By Gina Mastrostefano
On a late-winter afternoon, a visit to the FairyTea Room set the perfect stage for a cozy escape as flurries collected in the corners of the windows of the freshly painted facade on Market Street in Warren. As I stepped inside, the warmth enveloped me like a comforting embrace, immediately lifting my spirits. I was kindly greeted by co-owners Sara-Beth Warner and Korto Tawse-Butha, life-long besties who combined their creative spirit and a little bit of pixie dust to create a magical new tearoom in the East Bay. The space is gorgeously decorated with calming pops of green, and a playful assortment of gold-trimmed tea cups and saucers adorned the tables, all shimmering beneath a dense canopy of twinkling string-lights.
Afternoon Tea Service
Must-Try Items
AFTERNOON TEA ( $38 PER PERSON )
A three-course menu of light bites and mini desserts with a pot of loose-leaf tea
Cuisine: Cute contemporary tea room
Atmosphere: Whimsical, European
FairyTea Room evokes magic in every corner
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FOOD & DRINK
PROFESSIONAL SERVICE”
“Having
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“SERVICE AS IT SHOULD BE”
I took a seat in a comfy green velvet dining chair and browsed the expansive list of offerings – a tea connoisseur’s dream. There were dozens of varieties, categorized by black, green, white, oolong, herbal, and specialty. I personally am a sucker for mint, so I went with the Organic Peppermint, an Egyptian herbal blend that was as sweet as it was minty. I also tried the Organic White Peony at the recommendation of Sara-Beth; it was a soothing Chinese white tea with notes of honeysuckle.
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Light bites and dainty desserts are all part of the traditional tea service experience, which features a balanced assortment of snacks. Guests have their choice of three finger sandwiches, along with two mini scones and three petite pastries, chef’s choice. I chose the Cucumber Sandwich with compound herb butter, the Deviled Egg Salad, and the Portabella with Horseradish. The spread was presented on a pretty three-tiered serving tray, with the sandwiches on the bottom – each was tasty and savory without being too heavy, and the best part for tea service newbies: they’re presented sans crust.
Submitted: November 2024
July Issue 2025
decadent whipped butter and dainty dish of strawberry jam for spreading. The top tier of desserts were exactly that – top tier. Tiny but flavorful, these desserts shined with their quality ingredients and artful presentation. The Mini Passionfruit Mousse, served in a small saucer, was bursting with fruity flavor. The star was the house-made cupcake with a vanilla base and raspberry center, topped with a rich and beautiful purple frosting, and garnished with an edible flower. Lastly, the Raspberry Macaron rounded out the tangy thread that united all three desserts.
As I finished my tea and bites, the afternoon sun dipped low, casting a soft glow through the snow-kissed windows. The FairyTea Room isn’t just a place to sip – it’s an invitation to step into a charming childhood dream come true, which my five-year-old self may have imagined all my meals in my 30s might be like. Luckily, there is also a La Petite Tea for guests under 12, so this princess-inspired dream can become a reality for young patrons.
Working my way up, the middle tier featured the scones, one vanilla and the other seasoned with herbes de Provence, accompanied by a
FairyTea Room
69 Market Street, Warren FairyTeaRoom.com
Photography by Gina
Mastrostefano
Finger sandwiches
Food News
East Bay restaurants and breweries expanding to Aquidneck Island
By Ken Abrams
Chomp’s burgers have gathered quite a following at their Warren and Providence restaurants, making way for their expansion to Aquidneck Island. “Newport has always been a target for us, and we’re thrilled to make it our third location,” says co-owner Tanner Larkin. “We’ve been patiently waiting for the right property, and 111 Broadway (the former site of The Fifth Element) checked all of our boxes.” Larkin envisions a large open floor plan to welcome diners in “a space that accommodates both a lively
bar crowd and families for sit-down dining.”
Expect a menu similar to the existing eateries, along with new drink offerings like a house margarita, a dedicated Guinness line at the bar, rotating monthly food specials, and live music at the new location. “We’re very excited to become part of the Newport hospitality scene and look forward to being a positive addition to the neighborhood,” adds Larkin. Chomp Newport is expected to open in April. Warren and Newport, ChompRI.com
Middletown cafe to set up counter service near a mini-golf course
Coffee roastery and cafe Grafik Coffee is adding a grab-and-go location at Newport Mini Golf in Middletown this spring. “You’ll be able to walk up and find our staples, including in-house baked goods, bagels, and breakfast sandwiches,” says owner Josh Whalen. “We’ll also have smoothies and, of course, our coffee products.” The outdoor walk-up location will have picnic tables and small bistro-style tables for customers.
Meanwhile, the menu and hours at the original Portsmouth location are expanding. A new concept, known as Grafik After Dark, will feature signature cocktails, espresso martinis, and more. “We’re rolling out an evening menu on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays after 5pm with small plates and desserts like charcuterie, olives and nuts, and more,” says Whalen, who credits support from patrons for the coffee shop’s growth. “The community is really kind of what’s driving us to keep growing; they feed us the confidence that we need to know it’s worth continuing to invest and grow.” Middletown and Portsmouth, GrafikCoffee.com
East Bay brewery pivots toward Newport
Since opening in 2021, Pivotal Brewery in Bristol has become an East Bay favorite. Co-owners Rebecca Ernst and Todd Nicholson say they have been seeking a Newport location from the beginning. “So when this space at the old Salvation Café popped up, we jumped on it,” says Ernst. They hope to have the brewery at least partially open by St. Patrick’s Day. Initially, customers will find Pivotal’s flagship brews, including Tidal Flow, Celestial Plume, popular sours, and Tea-La Ginger Lemon Hard Tea at the new location. “We also have a collaboration brew coming out soon with Yagi Noodles,” says Nicholson. A food partner will be added soon, and the team plans to offer live music and special events like curated beer tastings. “We’ve received a great outpouring of interest and enthusiasm,” adds Nicholson. “A lot of locals have reached out to us, and there’s a lot of excitement. We’re thrilled to bring our brand to the city of Newport, and we think that it’ll be a great fit for us.” Bristol and Newport, PivotalBrewing.com
Popular burger spot adds third location
PIC
A dusting of snow over Tiverton at golden hour
ABOUT KAYLA
@k___elizabeth
Awkward millennial sarcastically MacGyvering my way through marriage, motherhood & life with my camera in hand.
