Social Life MAY 2017
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May 2017 - v ol . X I V i s sue 1
L I F E S T Y L E A N D F E AT U R E S Jewelry Shopping Runway Accessories Fashion Health & Beauty Cover Feature
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SOCIET Y AND EVENT PHOTOS Society Parties Hot Shots Charity Circuit Calendar
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H O M E , T R AV E L , A RT, A N D P R O F I L E S Home Travel A Day in the Social Life Food & Wine Art Profiles
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Social Life
Social Life
May 2017 - v ol . X I V i s sue 1 Publisher
JUSTIN MITCHELL
Editor-in-Chief DEVORAH ROSE Managing Editor
BARI TRONTZ
FEATURES
Senior Editor Chris London Wine and Spirits Editor Sharon Roth Features Editor Inna DeSilva Travel Editor Joe Alexander Charity Editor MJ Pedone Editor-At-Large Coralie Charriol Paul Mom Editor Lyss Stern Home and Design Editor Sarah Parker Young Book Editor Gina Mason Local Hamptons Editor Karen Berliner Executive Editor Anthony Giampetruzzi Wellness Editor Zoe Bullock Men’s Fasion Editor MJ Pedone Senior Editor Lizabeth Zindel Editor Suzanne Delay Social Editor Jean Shafiroff
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Daniel Berkowitz, Brad Boles, Somers Farkas, Julie Leventhal, Nicole Cardi, Carolina Cohen, Jennifer Liedke, Amanda McElroy, Jersey, Alyssa Goldman, Stephanie Smith-Strickland, Monica Navia, Kitty Pilgrim, Isaiah Negron, Cristina Hilsenrath, Helaina Hovitz PHOTOGRAPHERS Patrick McMullan, Chris London, Gregory Partanio, Rob Rich, Jerritt Clark, Joe Corrigan, Gail Tobias, Robert Linton, Laura Mircik-Sellers, Harry Heuts
ART
Art Editor Eve Xanthopoulos Art Writer Randy Scott Art Writer Amy Purssey
FASHION / BEAUTY
Fashion Editor Gregory DelliCarpini Jr. Beauty Director Jeanette M. Zinno Jewelry Editor Jonathan Valdez
FASHION STORY
Photographed by Stephen Dedalus Fashion Styling by Gregory DelliCarpini Jr. Hair and Makeup Julie Morgan for KLORANE for
Angelo David Salon \ T3 Micro
Model Simone Aptekman and Shannon McNulty at
Major Models COVER
Cover Naomi Watts Production By Devorah Rose
CORPORATE
Advertising and Senior Editor Christine Montanti Creative Director Marsin Mogielski Executive Director Lili Sarnyai, phd Business Development Sara Burack Business Development Stacey Prince Business Development Alison Terk Luxury Director Robert Pace Marketing Candace Dhakhwa Senior Executive Melissa Mitchell-Boyd Advertising Sales Director Robyn Michele
SPECIAL THANKS The Team Advertising and Sponsorship Please contact Social Life at 212.725.1860 advertising@sociallifemagazine.com To be a part of the cover girl dinner series, please email info@sociallifemagazine.com Publishing Offices: SOCIAL LIFE MAGAZINE, INC. 315 West 39th Street, Suite 1001, New York, NY 10018 Social Life
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Photo credit: Iris Velghe / Illustrator credit: Alice Drapanaski
PUBLISHER’S LETTER
It’s Memorial Day weekend, my favorite time of year. The anticipation of this weekend builds for months, as I look forward to the start of the summer in the Hamptons. The Hamptons is a special place. With the Memorial Day weekend, we kick-off the season with a full social calendar. The next few months promise to be both eventfilled and family-filled. Attending events is a must, as is keeping yourself socially active. Equally important is spending time with friends and family. The Hamptons is a treasure. I appreciate all it has to offer, the charming villages, the quaint cafés, and especially the nature. To view the endless beauty surrounding us is humbling. My favorite pastimes are going to the beach and bike riding. I feel lucky to be out East, and I never take it for granted. Social Life is celebrating 14 years of publishing in the Hamptons, and we truly enjoy the magazine business. We are thankful to our loyal readers and advertisers, and will continue to put out a great luxury magazine for years to come. Have a great weekend! Justin Mitchell
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Devorah Rose, Nomi Ellenson Photography
This is the weekend we have been longingly awaiting. The Hamptons season is here and with that all the promise of new memories with friends and loved ones. What’s more incredible than a simple day by the pool with a good book and perfect sunshine? Have you missed the earthy smell of fresh cut grass as much as I have? Personally, one of my favorite activities is to ride a bike to the marshes and eat a croissant while watching the sun melt into fiery pinks and purples. Unplugging from the stress and chaos of the daily grind and communing with the environment and all things living gives us a sense of interconnectedness. Science has proven the deep therapeutic benefits of nature on the human mind. A multitude of cognitive mapping studies have shown that, in essence, we truly do recharge by spending time in the natural world. I hope this summer, everyone who takes in the environment that provides us with such vitality feels a sense of commitment to it. And that commitment translates into specific action of raising the questions that must be raised and accepting the realization that all living beings have rights. In nature each individual being has a soul, a unique character and — just like us — a will to survive. Animals come in all shapes, colors, and sizes, but they all share the very same things we have in common too: they want to live and they do not want to suffer. They want to live with their loved ones, be free, and be happy. Currently the main foundation I have been supporting is Animal Hope and Wellness Foundation, which combats the dog and cat meat trade in Asia, but if you prefer to focus locally, there are a multitude of organizations. ARF and Last Chance Animal Shelter, right here in Southampton, are organizations that I admire and truly value the work they do on behalf of local animals. Thankfully in the Hamptons, there are so many ways to give back! And there is also a plethora of ways to support worthwhile causes. However, you choose to give back will make a difference in the world around you. We all have unique ways of sharing the abundance we are so lucky to enjoy. The process of enjoying the East End and then sharing that joy with the world is a personal one — have fun with it and enjoy this beautiful weekend!
Social Life
Š2017 Porsche Cars North America, Inc. Porsche recommends seat belt usage and observance of traffic laws at all times.
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The status quo, lapped again. A nearly seven-decade disdain for the expected continues with the new Panamera. Redesigned inside and out, it breathes new life into classic Porsche design cues. More powerful, more advanced, and more luxuriously appointed, the new Panamera is not just a new car, but a new benchmark. Porsche. There is no substitute.
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Visit your local Tri-State Porsche dealer for a test drive. tristateporsche.com
Royal Court Hamptons
ALL PHOTO BY PATRICK MCMULLAN
SARAH JESSICA PARKER
BROOKE SHIELDS
PARIS HILTON
Social Life
Upper Left MARTHA STEWART Upper Center BETH STERN Upper Right JON BON JOVI
KELLY RIPA
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KHLOE KARDASHIAN
ďœ˛ďœ´
J E W E L RY By Jonathan Valdez
You want the time to pass as slowly as possible during the summer, but you still need to be on time as you zip around the Hamptons. Choosing a timepiece with a leather strap will guarantee that you are the most chic guest out East.
CHOPARD Rainbow Sapphire Imperiale 18K Rose Gold Leather Strap Price Upon Request London Jewelers 2046 Northern Boulevard, Manhasset
ROLEX Cellini Moonphase 18K Everose Gold Price Upon Request 2 Main Street, East Hampton
HARRY WINSTON
CARTIER
Avenue Classic in White Gold 18K White Gold with Diamonds Leather Strap Price Upon Request London Jewelers 2100 Northern Boulevard, Manhasset
Tank Solo Watch 18K Pink Gold with Steel Leather Strap Price Upon Request London Jewelers 2100 Northern Boulevard, Manhasset Social Life
J E W E L RY By Jonathan Valdez
Stackable Summer – Mix and match your favorite bangles and bracelets for a fun and flirty on-trend look for summer 2017. A perfectly styled stack can take you from brunch to the beach or from garden party to gala.
CARTIER
BULGARI
Love Bracelet 18K Yellow Gold $6,300 653 Fifth Avenue
BZero1 Bangle Bracelet 18K Rose Gold and White Ceramic $7,150 London Jewelers 2046 Northern Boulevard, Manhasset
LONDON COLLECTION
CARELLE
Gold Diamond Link Bracelet 18K Yellow Gold $2,280 London Jewelers 2046 Northern Boulevard, Manhasset
Whirl Clustered Diamond Bangle 18K Yellow Gold with diamonds $5,500 Carelle Showroom carelle.com Social Life
SHOPPING by
Gregory DelliCarpini Jr.
These shops offer an array of items for any occasion. Whether it ’s a walk on the beach or an evening painting the Hamptons red, these three shops know how to cater to your needs.
ZIMMERMANN If you’re in the market for some super cool and unique swimsuits, cocktail dresses, or lace separates, this is the shop for you. Zimmermann offers up a bevy of super feminine options that will allow you to be the standout guest at this season’s weddings and dinner parties. 27 Newtown Lane, East Hampton
CABANA This hip conceptual store has returned to the Hamptons this summer with its signature mix of globally sourced fashion and home and beauty products. Among its selection are a bunch of sleek vintage items from the likes of Chanel, Givenchy, and Alaïa. 53 Jobs Lane, Southampton
Social Life
Greg Grossman’s OREYA Hamptons, reopening following an extensive renovation. Announcing: OREYA Lounge, An Outdoor Experience; VIP Opening Friday 5/26, Grand Opening Saturday 5/27, Memorial Day Celebration Sunday 5/28 Lunch: Monday - Friday, 11am-4pm Brunch: Saturday and Sunday; 11am-4pm Apres-Beach: Wednesday - Sunday, 4pm-6pm Dinner: Wednesday - Sunday, Opening at 6pm OREYA Lounge: Friday and Saturday Evenings until 2am
OREYA at the Capri Hotel, 281 County Rd. 39a, Southampton, NY 11968 AD_V1.indd 1
www.oreya.com
@oreyahamptons 5/19/17 2:22 PM
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SHOPPING by
Gregory DelliCarpini Jr.
JOHN VARVATOS The perfect menswear shop to head to for that perfect evening look to exude confidence, elegance, and masculinity with the perfect touch of softness and ease. Subtle glen plaid patterns, sleek polos, trim-fitting cashmere knits, and versatile jackets fill the halls of this chic shop. 54 Newtown Lane, East Hampton
TENET Jesse Warren’s Southampton boutique, Tenet, is one of the few places to go in the Hamptons for edgy fashions. The shop first opened in 2010 as a men’s lifestyle store featuring upscale men’s clothing, furniture, art, and other items. Now the shop carries both menswear and womenswear, with designers like Zimmermann, A.P.C., and Rag & Bone. 91 Main Street, Southampton
SocialLifeMagazine.com
LONDON JEWELERS Need a little jewelry update this summer? London Jewelers is Long Island’s premier jeweler, carrying brand name designer collections and one-of-a kind hand crafted jewelry pieces. What better way to glitter on the beach than with a new piece of jewelry. The story of London Jewelers spans over 90 years and four generations, from it’s humble Glen Cove storefront in 1926 to today’s ever-growing family of fine jewelry and timepiece boutiques across Long Island. 2 Main Street, East Hampton
R U N WAY By Gregory DelliCarpini Jr.
Pink Passion While we’re admittedly loving the dark drama of a monochromatic black look this summer, we’ve got to say pink is still a fab option. Pink tones are undoubtedly one of summer 2017’s biggest trends, for sure. Rosy, bubblegum, and fuchsia are just some of the pink colors you’ll be seeing. From Gucci and Prada to Balmain and Balenciaga, pink is a color that we don’t anticipate ending anytime soon.
Gucci, Spring 2017
Balmain, Spring 2017
Balenciaga, Spring 2017
Valentino, Spring 2017
Social Life
R U N WAY By Gregory DelliCarpini Jr.
Blackout Blackout this summer in one of the season’s hottest trends. This blackout doesn’t include the help of vodka or gin; we’re talking a sleek monochromatic black look. We’re pretty sure we read somewhere that black is the most commonly cited favorite color. Alas, it’s actually not a color. In fact, it is the absorption of color. Doesn’t that make it that much cooler? Go for an all-black look this summer as seen on the runway at Alexander Wang and Vera Wang.
Alexander Wang, Spring 2017
Bottega Veneta, Spring 2017
Burberry, Spring 2017
Vera Wang, Spring 2017
Social Life
ACCESSORIES By Gregory DelliCarpini Jr.
Pop Art Memorial Day is all about peacocking. It’s time to show off your body, your amazing sense of fun, your killer style. So why not accessorize your look with items that shout Hey, look at me! Go for an accessory that adds a glittering pop to your look. Whether it’s a bold, multicolored Fendi backpack, or a loud pair of Gucci glasses, choose an item that does all the talking for you. You’ll be too busy to talk anyway while you’re sipping a margarita.
J.W. Anderson Yellow & Pink Sphere Earrings $440
Fendi Multicolor Striped ‘Bag Bugs’ Backpack $5,900
Gucci, Spring/Summer 2017
Vetements Blue Stars Lighter Sock Boots $1,550 Social Life
E Y E W E A R
8025 Jericho Turnpike, Woodbury NY, 11797
Tel: 516-364-7474
ACCESSORIES By Gregory DelliCarpini Jr.
Acne Studios Pink Mustang Sunglasses $320
Gucci Red Cherry Earrings $1,095
Miu Miu Red & White Wedge Sandals $990 Balenciaga, Spring/Summer 2017 Social Life
FASHION
KENEEA LINTON-GEORGE ISLAND LIFE By Joseph Stefano
H
ave you ever marveled at a sensationally airy frock worn by a model or actress? Or perhaps you’ve been to a restaurant or event, and you saw a woman in a perfect dress, the one you wished you had found during weeks of dress hunting? Yes, you have, and you’ve wondered, “Where can I get that?” Keneea Linton-George is a fashion designer and young entrepreneur based in Kingston, Jamaica, and she understands your pain. She is the CEO of KTL Group Limited, a marketing and production company. She is inspiring young fashionistas across the Caribbean expanse with her classic and elegant creations. She is also the producer and host of Mission Catwalk, a reality fashion show with multi-seasons on YouTube. It’s a story that reads like a fairy tale: she got her start in 2005 when she was tapped to dress that year’s Ms. Jamaica Universe. From there, she went on to host a fashion show and become a staple of Caribbean Fashion Week. Today, she is just as much known for her creations as she is for her entrepreneurial spirit. “I’ve learned that as much as I love fashion, to be truly successful, you must approach it as a business first and a hobby second,” she says. Perhaps that’s what’s allowed her to move
beyond Caribbean Fashion Week and into the highly competitive areas of Miami International Fashion Week, London Fashion Week, and then to become the first Jamaican designer to be featured at Brooklyn Fashion Week. Her designs have also been featured in SHE Caribbean Magazine, Jamaque Magazine, Caribbean Belle Magazine, Profiles Magazine, among many others. Keneea is committed to the advancement of the local fashion industry through The Designers Guild Jamaica, a non-profit professional organization aimed at making the local fashion industry more globally competitive. “Design is a passion that I want others to benefit from,” says Keneea. “I am a huge advocate for women, and I hope that they can be inspired by me!” Awards presented to Keneea include the Investor’s Choice, Young Jamaican Achievers Award; Jamaica 50 Under Fifty: Business Leaders Shaping Jamaica’s Future Award; the Ocean Style Foundation Award; and the Jamaica Observer Fashion Innovator Award. Keneea continues to design and grow her clothing line, and also promote the interest of other local designers as the industry continues to develop. keneealinton.com Social Life
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FASHION
MEN THAT TREND By MJ Pedone
The beginning of summer and the start of the Hamptons season is my favorite time of the year. I get to spend my summer on the East End relaxing on the pristine beaches, visiting some of the most beautiful vineyards, and attending social events with many of my dear friends and family. This is also an exciting time to kick-off our Memorial Day issue with my favorite picks for the men who are hip, trendy, and, of course, want some of the latest and greatest items for the summer. This feature will showcase a few of those for the backyard. I hope you enjoy them! – MJ Pedone – the founder & CEO Indra Public Relations | indrapr.com
BROOKSTONE SONOMA ARCHED WOOD PERGOLA Now you can enjoy the beauty and elegance of a gorgeous arched pergola — right in your own back yard. The Sonoma arched 16-foot x 16-foot wooden pergola comes with crate and hardware for assembly. You can enjoy sitting out under a beautifullycrafted wooden structure made from Douglas fir, while it protects you from harsh sun and wind. Create an outdoor living room today. $4,275 brookstone.com MADERA TEAK DAYBED Create an oasis for relaxation in the patio or garden. Made of premium, grade A teak, a weather-resistant hardwood rich in natural oils, the Madera daybed is built to last for many seasons. This Madera daybed combines the classic, casual look of wooden slats with a medley of contemporary design features. $5,600 potterybarn.com
BOSE FREE SPACE 51 ENVIRONMENTAL SPEAKERS Free Space 51 outdoor stereo speakers offer broad, even coverage from a design that enables 360-degree sound dispersion. A centrally located port enhances low-frequency performance to help preserve the depth and richness of music outdoors. And a domed grille resting over that port reflects high-frequency tones across the listening area. These speakers can be installed in the ground or on hard surfaces. Designed to blend in with backyard greenery, you may hardly notice them when placed within your landscaping. And for use on a patio or deck, the grooves on the underside of the base allow you to neatly tuck in wires for a simple and professional-looking installation. $450 bose.com WOLF 54” OUTDOOR GAS GRILL OG54 The OG54 has six individually contained burners for independent heat control, including an infrared sear zone up to 25,500 BTUs to seal in juices, and a pair of twoposition rotisseries for succulent chicken or beef. Latenight dinner? Halogen lights illuminate the grilling surface and the signature red control-knobs are LED-lit for easy reading. In sculpted stainless steel, it may be the last grill you’ll ever need. $8,450 subzero-wolf.com
OUTDOOR GREAT ROOM POINTE L-SHAPED FIRE PIT TABLE Transform your outdoor space with The Pointe Crystal Fire Pit Table. This one-of-a-kind gas fire pit table is crafted in an L-shape, which allows easy placement in corners and between other outdoor items. With two crystal fire burners meeting at a 90-degree angle, this modern fire pit is sure to impress your guests and keep you warm! $4,460 woodlanddirect.com Social Life
LET’S
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FASHION
THE HOT LYSST MOTHERHOOD IS A BEACH/B#TCH 10 STEPS TO REGAINING YOUR SANITY, SEXINESS, AND INNER DIVA By Lyss Stern
Lyss Stern, the CEO and founder of DivaMoms.com — New York’s premier socializing network for moms and moms-to-be — shares her picks for Hamptons moms.
T
he book every woman will be reading, sharing, tweeting, and buzzing about this summer in the Hamptons! Motherhood is a B#tch! is the modern mom’s bible for dealing with the day-to-day chaos of child-rearing with style, savvy, and grace. It’s written for both the stressed-out working mom and the harried stay-at-home mom. You’ve had a kid or two . . . or three. Now, every time you look in the mirror you ask yourself, “Who the hell is that tired, washed out woman looking back at me?” What happened to the stylish, stiletto-wearing woman who prided herself on living the fabulous life? Sister, it’s time to reclaim your pre-baby body, mind, and mojo! No more sulking, stressing, or resenting other moms who have it more together than you and wondering how they do it. Motherhood is a B#tch! tells you how you can do it. Being a bitch is not about ranting, raving, or ripping someone’s head off for the fun of it. It’s about confidence and control and knowing when and where to dig your four-inch heels into the ground. It’s about standing up for yourself and giving voice to your needs and feelings. It’s about not being selfless or selfish, but striking the right balance between the two. I insist this book is a call to arms for modern moms everywhere. I want to empower women to regain their once fierce and fabulous selves. Follow these rules and in the end, you’ll be happier, healthier, and hotter than ever. Every mom deserves that . . . and more.
Social Life
FASHION
DO YOU HAVE B#TCH POTENTIAL?
THE B#TCHITINI RECIPE (#DELYSSCIOUS FOR SUMMER DINING, COCKTAIL HOUR, BBQS)
1. A mom grabs you in the schoolyard and asks if you “wouldn’t mind” watching her kid . . . for the next three hours. Her nanny phoned in sick, and she has a shrink appointment and some errands to run. The correct response is: a) Of course, I’ll watch him! We unbalanced people have to stick together! b) Sure, I don’t mind at all. Would Billy like to stay for dinner? c) I’m sorry. All playdates need to be arranged at least twentyfour hours in advance. Clearly you mistake me for someone without a life.
One day I was in the kitchen with my girlfriend, cutting up watermelon (and picking out the pits) for our kids’ snack and chugging down glasses of watermelon juice. “Ya know,” I commented, “this would even taste better with a shot of vodka or a splash of rosé.” We got out the ingredients and the B#tchitini was born! It’s now become the cocktail of choice when I have friends over, or when I have had a tough day and need to unwind. Most #DeLysscious cocktail after the beach, for summer dining, cocktail hour, and BBQs.
2. Your husband gets the AmEx bill and flips out over how much you spent this month. You reply: a) Perhaps Babies ‘R’ Us will give me diapers, wipes, and formula for free if I ask “pretty please.” b) You’re right, honey. I’ll start coupon clipping tomorrow. c) No prob . . . I’ll just return that sexy new lingerie I bought to wear for you this weekend.
Ingredients 3 ounces rosé wine 1 ounce watermelon vodka, such as Smirnoff Watermelon 1 ounce fresh watermelon juice
3. Your mother-in-law remarks that you look like you’ve gained some weight. You answer: a) Gee, Mom, I guess giving birth to twins will do that to ya. b) You’re right. I should hit the gym more often. c) Have you looked in a mirror lately? Mostly a’s: You’re a woman who keeps her bitchiness bottled up. You have potential, but you need to let it fly! You tend to hide behind snarky remarks rather than saying what you want/feel. Your anger is bubbling under the surface, and that’s just not healthy. One day you’re going to explode. Say what you mean, mean what you say!
Directions Shake watermelon vodka, watermelon juice, rosé wine, and ice in a cocktail shaker. Pour into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a watermelon chunk. Take a sip and enjoy the #DeLysscious cocktail.
Mostly b’s: You must like shoes, because clearly you are a doormat. How much abuse can one woman take? Are you trying to be fifty shades of pathetic? Honey, stop suffering and start standing up for yourself! Mostly c’s: Now you’re talkin’, girlfriend. You’ve got a mighty mouth and lots of natural bitchiness in you. Brava! Now you just need to hone those skills so people aren’t offended, but become putty in your hands.
SocialLifeMagazine.com
To purchase the book visit, amazon.com
FASHION
JETSETTER ST YLE THE MAGIC OF MONACO By Gregory DelliCarpini Jr.
M
onaco is an absolute dream. It may be the secondsmallest independent state in the world, but it’s a true spectacle set in one of the most mystical spots in Europe. First thing to do in Monaco is to take a swim in the Mediterranean. So head to the Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel and pull up a lounge chair at the hotel’s beach club. When you’re ready for dry land, go to the Place du Casino. This will get you into the right mindset to enjoy the city. Then you will realize you need to do some serious shopping, so head to the many shops located within walking distance of the casino. Have lunch at Mozza. The space echoes Italian traditions with exposed-brick walls, crimson leather banquettes, industrial lights, vintage mirrors, marble tables, and mosaic floors. With a mozzarella bar serving nine different varieties, plus homemade pasta, and an impressive wine collection enclosed in wooden cabinets, everything speaks Italian.
After lunch visit the Old City on the hilltop. It’s a nice walk and will help you work off some of your lunch. When you get there check out the Saint Nicholas Cathedral. This is where Grace Kelly got married and officially became a princess. Then stop by the oceanographic museum of Monaco. Built on the side of a mountain in 1910 by Prince Albert I, this museum is a palace that invites you to discover the world of the sea. For dinner eat at Alain Ducasse’s Louis XV at the Hôtel de Paris. This sparkling restaurant is adorned with Aristide Najean’s bespoke crystal sculpture, a gloriously large halo chandelier. The legendary wine cellar hidden beneath Hôtel de Paris holds more than 400,000 bottles. After dinner take in the city by moonlight and stroll along the twinning sidewalks where you’ll see glistening lights of yachts parked in the Mediterranean. Head to visitmonaco.com for more. Social Life
ZACH ERDEM PRESENTS SUMMER 2017
75 Main Street, Southampton, NY 11968 • 631.283.7575 www.75main.com • 75MainSouthampton • @75mainofficial • @75main
Veteran Restaurateur Tony Fortuna of T-Bar at
136 Main Street, Southampton, NY 11968 • 631.619.6660 www.kozuhampton.com/restaurant • KOZU • #KOZU
And Returning for another exciting season
125 Tuckahoe Lane, Southampton, NY 11968 631.353.3888 •
@amsouthampton
StBarthHamptons.com Event Date July 22
ST BARTH H A M P T O N S
Gala 2017 Join
CHRISTIE BRINKLEY Celebrate her cover KICK UP YOUR HEELS! Drinks, DJ & Hors d’oeuvres
Organic Prosecco Lounge provided by Christie Brinkley’s Bellissima Music by Lee Kalt 2368 Montauk Hwy Bridgehampton Saturday, July 22 6pm - 10pm LIMITED TICKETS AVAILABLE AT
StBarthHamptons.com Thank you sponsors
Boar’s Head Brand Bagatelle St Barth | Hair2Wear | Leibish & Co Carlyle Catering | Kimimi | GoCharity.com Christie Brinkley Authentic Skincare
S ocial L ife
Ring by Margo Manhattan
FASHION
Simone Sweater by Naked Wardrobe Hat by Saint Laurent Shoes by Golden Goose Deluxe Shannon Dress by Norine Farah Shoes by Angela Mitchell (right) Dress by Novis Hat by Saint Laurent Shoes by Golden Goose Deluxe
Dress by Blakely Earrings by MonicaVinader
Top by L’Etoile Sport Skirt by Cacharel (left) Dress by Red Carter Shoes by Angela Mitchell Headband by Dior Earrings by Monica Vinader
Simone Swim by Red Carter Skirt by Kisuii Hat by Saint Laurent Shannon Dress by Philistine Shoes by Angela Mitchell Headband by Jennifer Behr
Dress by AnaMaria Couture
Jumpsuit by Longchamp Hat by Mühlbauer
Dress by Ong Shunmugam Shoes by Aldo Earrings by Monica Vinader
Swimsuit by Red Carter (left) Swimsuit by Red Carter
(left) Hat by Saint Laurent Top by M Chic Ring by Margo Manhattan (right) Swimsuit by Versace Jacket by Fendi Shoes by Golden Goose Deluxe
Top by Jenni Kayne Swimsuit Red Carter Shoes by Golden Goose Deluxe
Swimsuit by Red Carter (left) Simone Swimsuit by Red Carter Jacket by Diesel Shoes by Golden Goose Deluxe Shannon Dress by Calypso St. Barth Shoes by Angela Mitchell
Swimsuit by Bleu Rod Beattie
Swimsuit by Red Carter
Swimsuit by Vilebrequin Skirt by Ong Shunmugam
Simone Swimsuit by Red Carter Pants by Mola Walker Shannon Swimsuit by Bleu Rod Beattie Pants by Mola Walker
This portfolio was photographed by Stephen Dedalus and commissioned by Justin Mitchell for Social Life Magazine. Styling by Gregory DelliCarpini Jr. Hair and Makeup by Julie Morgan for Angelo David Salon ׀T3 Micro
for
KLORANE
Models: Simone Aptekman and Shannon McNulty at Major Models
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H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
BEAUTY By Jeanette Zinno
Mini Travel Must-Haves Summer is all about cutting back when it comes to work, apparel, and even beauty products, in size at least. These pint-sized beauty products are tiny enough to pack in any travel bag!
SUMMER GLOW The La Prairie White Caviar Illuminating Pearl Infusion is a serum that is made with iridescent pearls of caviar extract and vitamin C. The formula gives skin a luminous glow by minimizing skin dullness from winter. Bloomingdale’s, $520 SPF Whether you’re sailing all day, or simply taking a dip in the pool, COOLA’s Sport Travel Set is the perfect SPF choice. It contains a variety of SPFs for face and body and an after-sun lotion in a colorful travel bag. Sephora, $39.99 NOURISH SKIN Tatcha’s Smoothing Black Sugar Body Gommage is a decadent body scrub featuring black sugar and healing Japanese indigo from the shores of tropical Okinawa, Japan. The gentle formula thoroughly exfoliates, leaving skin silky and soft. Just in time for the beach! tatcha.com, $25 for travel size. EASY MAKEUP REMOVER An on-the-go makeup removal stick, the Clinique Take The Day Off eye makeup remover stick is easy to use and travel with. The silky, greaseless formula dissolves all traces of eye makeup in a snap. Sephora, $18.50
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Chalet Chic Austrian Escape
The Bio-Hotel Stanglwirt, owned by the Hauser family, is a luxury eco-friendly resort located in Austria that offers something for everyone year-round. This historic resort is more than 400 years old, and its 171 lavish and cozy rooms and suites are furnished with health-promoting Swiss stone pinewood. The setting is a backdrop of alpine pastures and the impressive jagged cliffs of the Wilder Kaiser mountains. The resort is located on hundreds of acres, allowing for so many activities that many guests do not venture off property. The resort has its own Lipizzaner stud farm, where you can take horseback riding lessons; a tennis village, which has 14 courts and its renowned tennis school, Peter Burwash International (PBI); and Golf Sport Academy Stanglwirt. Guests can enjoy exploring the area around the foot of the Wilder Kaiser while hiking, jogging, or on horseback. In the fitness garden, guests can take complimentary classes in Pilates and yoga with top fitness coaches. The Stanglwirt is also an ideal starting point for hikers, climbers, and mountain bikers looking for adventure. However, if you’re in need of a relaxing retreat (hello, New Yorkers!), the Stanglwirt spa is calling your name.
The spa contains myriad pools, rock baths, grottos, saunas, and steam baths. There’s a massive salt-water pool with views of the mountains, a professional sports pool for swimming lengths, as well as a paradisiacal garden with many peaceful alcoves to retreat to. You can also indulge in a wide variety of spa treatments, including the haki flow, which is a unique water massage where you’re supported by elastic straps that are attached to your ankles, as if you were floating on a hammock in the water. This allows the massage therapist to relieve your tension spots as you are purposefully pulled, pressed, and stretched. This popular treatment concentrates on alleviating pressure in the shoulder, neck, and head area, and reinvigorating the body. stanglwirt.com +43 (0) 5358.2000
EDITOR’S PICK
Diptyque’s L’Art du Soin Pour Le Voyage Travel Set Diptyque’s new travel set includes all summer essentials for the body and face. The set includes everything you’ll need for your next journey: Infused Facial Water, Revitalizing Shower Gel, Fresh Lotion, Nourishing Cleansing Balm, and Essential Face Cream. Nordstrom, $85
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THE MALE BAG TIME TO PREP By Anthony Michael
Yes, Memorial Day is a bit of a tease. It’ll be several weeks before we see real sun, real action, and real results from our last-minute preparations for the summer. But let’s face it, summer’s about to get real.
June Jacobs 3-in-1 Cleanser junejacobs.com
Clarisonic Alpha Fit clarisonic.com
BYLT Basics byltbasics.com Whether you’re working out (and now is the time to get serious) or going out, BYLT helps you achieve a sensationally perfect fit. When it comes to the FLEX Boxer and the Drop Cut T, many people (including one of our editors) have completely restocked their underwear drawers. Quality, style, and yes, comfort, are what BYLT is built on. Underwear from $25.99, shirts from $26.99.
Stay away from the cheap or sleek imposters. Clarisonic has forged the best scrubbing tool to ensure a cleaner face, a closer shave, and, ultimately, an opportunity to lie about your age, $219.
Pair your Clarisonic experience with June Jacobs 3-in-1 Cleanser for a truly luxurious experience. This fivestar cleanser removes dirt and excess oil and can be used on the face, body, and hair — there’s zero chance you won’t love this parabenand preservative-free power cleanser, $30.
Allies of Skin 1A All Day Mask alliesofskin.com Did winter (or just last night) leave you a little worse for wear? This luxe alternative to a daily moisturizer will do clean-up regardless. Formulated to reverse telltale signs of stress and fatigue, 1A supercharges your mug with a multitude of peptides, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatories. If you wanna go all in, preface your prep with Molecular Saviour Toner Mist ($59). Every spritz delivers a potent dose of soothing anti-bacterials and restorative nutrients like silk amino acids and cucumber seed oil. With this combo, who needs sleep at all? $109.
Dr. Squatch Natural Soap drsquatch.com When a Chicagoan IT professional realized there wasn’t a company out there that was making honest, all-natural soap for dudes, he began to tinker with formulations . . . and Dr. Squatch was born. Nine all-natural, guy-focused sud machines bring new meaning to the showering experience . . . and the results linger. Feeling traditional? Go with Bay Rum. Out on a limb? Deep Sea Goats Milk. Or do yourself a favor and get a Dr. Squatch monthly subscription, $6–$18. Social Life
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DR . DAVID GREUNER, MD, FACS By David Delay
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r. David Greuner is a founding member and managing partner of NYC Surgical Associates, a multi-specialty practice with seven locations in the tri-state area, each with its own on-site surgical facilities. Since it’s founding in 2008, NYC Surgical Associates has become one of the fastest growing practices in New York. It’s also one of the safest. Beginning NYC Surgical Associates was a deliberate response to Dr. Greuner’s disappointment with the status quo and bureaucracy of hospital medicine. He wanted a different paradigm. Patients with botched surgeries, painful scars, lipedema, lymphedema, hernias, soft tissue disorders, and serious vascular issues often require more than one medical specialty to treat their complex cases; NYC Surgical Associates brings together highly skilled physicians who work as a team for their patients. Expediting recovery after surgery and minimizing downtime are important goals for modern surgical therapy. The mission of NYC Surgical Associates is to deliver the highest standards of surgical care in every specialty, using only the most advanced, minimally invasive approaches to medical procedures. To achieve this mission of surgical excellence, Dr. Greuner has carefully curated his team of specialist surgeons at NYC Surgical Associates, and their glowing reviews attest to the thousands of satisfied patients they have treated. Dr. Greuner’s keen eye for surgical talent has been shaped by his own experiences. His achievements and accolades are remarkable for a surgeon of any age, let alone for a 40-year-old. For seven years in a row, he has been voted a “Top Surgeon” by the Consumers’ Research Council. He was named chief resident of the year during his training at the Mount Sinai-affiliated hospital in Morristown, New Jersey. He trained there after completing post-graduate work in general surgery at the University of Arizona-affiliated hospitals in Phoenix, Arizona. He was then awarded a two-year fellowship in cardiovascular and thoracic surgery at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and a one-year fellowship in body contouring and complex reconstruction in the massive weight-loss patient, with the worldrenowned plastic surgeon Dr. Victor Rosenberg. Among Dr. Greuner’s areas of particular expertise lies addressing the problems that plague patients after weight loss. As our society becomes more health conscious, the number of patients losing weight and keeping it off is increasing annually. When we gain weight, our body tissues stretch — our skin, our organs, and our blood vessels, especially veins — in various directions. After weight loss, tissue recoils only to Social Life
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a certain extent. In most cases, a significant amount of laxity remains. Floppy, saggy skin; hernias; and bulging veins are problems that typically remain after weight loss, and are a humiliating and persistent reminder that often impedes future progress. These problems can also pose serious health risks. NYC Surgical Associates specializes in novel, efficient, and effective solutions to each of these issues. Dr. Greuner is the inventor of No Knife EVLT, a minimally invasive procedure that solves vein problems without even the smallest of incisions. In this procedure, a slight laser catheter is threaded through a needle so thin it leaves no scar when it seals veins that are too large and not returning blood to the heart, as they should. When veins don’t return blood optimally, the blood pools in the legs, causing cramping, swelling, and sometimes varicose veins. No Knife EVLT alleviates the problem and is quick, painless, and successful. The team at NYC Surgical Associates also specializes in reconstructing and re-contouring skin and other tissue after persons lose significant weight, as well as repairing hernias that often co-exist in these patients. The more active a person is, the more likely a hernia can develop as a result of a muscular defect. Dr. Greuner believes all hernias should be repaired because they may cause serious internal problems if left untreated, especially in patients who are physically active. Dr. Greuner also pioneered the Slim-Line Hernia Repair, a novel procedure which corrects even the most complex hernia without using a traditional prosthetic mesh. This procedure includes a cosmetic tummy tuck for an optimal cosmetic result, as well as a functional one. In addition, by avoiding mesh, the Slim-Line approach eliminates risks associated with prosthetic materials, such as chronic pain and infection. Similarly, a large part of NYC Surgical Associates’ work involves minimizing risk and improving outcomes for patients. The practice has almost completely eliminated dangerous blood clots in its surgical patients. NYC Surgical Associates has accomplished this by adopting an algorithm developed by Dr. Greuner that uses interventional radiological techniques with a complex knowledge of vascular physiology. While developing
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these techniques, Dr. Greuner transformed NYC Surgical Associates into one of the few centers in the world that do a large volume of procedures for patients with problems in their central venous system. As a result of these advancements, NYC Surgical Associates has become a world leader in modern, minimally invasive procedures and interventional techniques. Perhaps what Dr. Greuner prides himself on most is treating soft tissue disorders that have been somewhat overlooked by the medical establishment. He specializes in treating lipedema, a particularly common soft tissue disorder that is often misdiagnosed. Lipedema affects eleven percent of women and is characterized by large, columnar-appearing ankles, or “cankles,” even in those who are otherwise quite slim. It’s a genetic disorder and no amount of exercise or dieting will help. Dr. Greuner is one of only a few surgeons worldwide who is expertly trained to perform a specialized liposuction procedure that enormously improves lipedema. This procedure also helps patients who suffer from lymphedema: painful tissue swelling, a common complication after cancerous lymph nodes have been removed. Although it seems Dr. Greuner’s professional trajectory was a straight shot, it wasn’t. Along his journey, a car accident kept him from working, and his life as he knew it seemed to evaporate. But Dr. Greuner embraced life’s risks and persevered: he began all over again, and succeeded all over again. Today he is considered at the top of his field, with a long list of TV appearances and press profiles. Visit nycsurgical.net/media-center to view appearances on Dr. Oz and The Doctors. Dr. Greuner’s life experiences — exhilarating and despairing — drive his charitable giving, which is extensive. He is a cosponsor of Safe Horizon’s yearly clothing drive, and is a patron of Support for Breast and Ovarian Cancer|Share Foundation. As a lifelong athlete, Dr. Greuner competes in triathlons and other events for charity, and does his best to help all patients achieve their best functional status while taking into consideration their appearance at the same time. This, he believes is the future of modern surgery. As he says, “It’s not only about saving lives any more. It’s about saving the quality of your life as well. Everyone deserves to have a certain quality of life, and I make it my life’s goal to help give it to them.” nycsurgical.net
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HEALTHY EATING IN THE HAMPTONS By Zoe Bullock
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iet fads come and go, but everyone knows the importance of eating fruits and vegetables. As if we needed any more reasons to love the Hamptons: our local farmers markets and farm stands provide a perfect source for your local, organic, seasonal, and super fresh produce consumption. Check out these markets and stands to find heirloom tomatoes, tree-ripened peaches, melons, and perfect corn for your grill. Keep your eyes open for the delicious, locally produced cheeses, wines, and baked goods too. Southampton Farmers Market: Sunday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 25 Jobs Lane, Southampton Southampton Arts Center
Serene Green Farm Stand & Seafood Market: Daily 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. 3980 Noyac Road, Sag Harbor
North Sea Farms: Daily 8a.m. to 6 p.m. 1060 Noyac Road, Southampton
Shelter Island Farmers Market: Saturday 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 16 South Ferry Road, Shelter Island Historical Society
Green Thumb Organic Farm: Daily 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 829 Montauk Highway, Water Mill Halsey’s Farm Stand: Daily 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 513 Deerfield Road, Water Mill Bridgehampton Farmers Market: Friday 3 to 6:30 p.m. 151 Mitchell Lane, Bridgehampton Hayground School Open Minded Organics: Sunday-Thursday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday & Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. 720 Butter Lane, Bridgehampton Country Garden Farm Stand: 35 Millstone Road, Bridgehampton Sag Harbor Farmers Market: Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bay & Burke Streets
Pike Farms: Daily 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. 82 Sagg Main Street, Sagaponack East Hampton Farmer Market: Friday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. 136 North Main Street, East Hampton Nick and Toni’s parking lot Round Swamp Farm: Sunday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday-Saturday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 184 Three Mile Harbor Road, East Hampton ECO Farm Stand: Daily 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. 55 Long Lane, East Hampton Amagansett Farmers Market: Daily 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. 367 Montauk Highway, Amagansett
Amber Waves Farm: Daily 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. 375 Main Street, Amagansett Vicki’s Veggies: Daylight hours 597 Montauk Highway, Amagansett Balsam Farms: Daily 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Between Town & Windmill Lane, Amagansett Bhumi Farm Stand: Daily 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. 139 Pantigo Road, Amagansett Montauk Farmers Market: Thursday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Village Green in town Westhampton Beach Farmers Market: Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Parking lot next to Historical Society Hampton Bays Farmers Market: Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. 165 Ponquogue Avenue, Hamptons Bay St. Mary’s Church Nurel’s Farmers Market: Daily 9 a.m. to dusk 226 East Montauk Highway, Hampton Bays
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Summer is Coming... Have You Called Dr. Greenberg Yet?
INJECTABLES | FACIAL COSMETIC SURGERY | BODY CONTOURING | MEDSPA TREATMENTS
CALL 631.287.4999 FOR YOUR COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION W o o d b u ry M a n h at ta n
Celebrity Plast c Surgeon i STEPHEN T. GREENBERG, M.D., F.A.C.S. JEREMY NIKFARJAM, M.D.
Southampton B o c a R at o n
WWW.GREENBERGCOSMETICSURGERY.COM BEST Cosmetic Surgeon* | BEST Botox Center* | BEST Laser Center** | BEST Day Spa* | BEST Cosmetic & Laser Treatments** As Voted By *LI Press 2014, LIWeddings 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017
**Dan’s Papers 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016
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DR . RYAN NEINSTEIN YOU'RE ONLY YOUNG ONCE
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reconceived notions often lead to uncomfortable situations. Such was the case for me recently, when I decided to profile a young plastic surgeon to see what’s new in aesthetics. In my research, the name Dr. Ryan Neinstein came up often. Intrigued by the accolades, I contacted Dr. Neinstein, who suggested that we meet that Saturday morning at The Roxy in Tribeca. Right on time, I scanned the lobby for my version of a doctor: middle-aged, graying, ok-shape, but nothing to write home about. From my perspective, Dr. Neinstein was nowhere to be found. “You must be Jacob,” said a guy looking collegiate and athletic, clearly having come straight from the gym (or a yoga class), carrying a green juice, and certainly not in need of any lipo himself. After he added, “Hi, I’m Ryan,” the young doctor had a good laugh at the perplexed look on my face. “I get that all the time,” he said. Turns out that Dr. Neinstein, who is in his mid-30s, is one of the youngest plastic surgeons to have his own practice on Park Avenue. As we started talking, I learned that he was exactly the type of doctor I’d want: someone who’s all in on his profession, who not only exudes confidence in his own abilities, but who also has a knack for instilling confidence in others. He’s also just a really nice guy and wants people to know that the old world of plastic surgery — in fact, surgery in general — being intimidating and overwhelming is coming to an end. This could be because Dr. Neinstein has a healthy obsession with his art. “I operate every day, and every day I analyze my results, my techniques, my equipment. I know it sounds corny, but my goal is to be the best liposuction surgeon in the world,” Dr. Neinstein confessed, while finishing off his juice. “My focus
on health and fitness helps me be the instrument of change I want for other people.” Liposuction is Dr. Neinstein’s exclusive specialty and he’s dedicated to performing each lipo procedure perfectly for his patients, rather than offering a buffet of services that have become the hallmark of many other practices. “I think what I do is totally different from how every other plastic surgeon works,” says Dr. Neinstein. “Excellence and perfection in any endeavor in life are achieved through repetitive, deliberate practice, combined with a true talent. I have chosen liposuction because, in 2017, I see the need. My patients eat well, they exercise, but they have stubborn areas of fat. When I can skillfully alleviate that extra, genetically prone fat, I dramatically improve their wellness, both physically and mentally, and this happens with minimal downtime and minimal scarring. This provides me with a lot of personal satisfaction.” So, I had to know: let’s say I was lucky enough to get an appointment for Monday, was it true that I could be on the beach soon afterward? “It’s true — a matter of days,” said Dr. Neinstein. What’s more, with his expert techniques and tools, the procedure wouldn’t even require going under. I was getting excited. I wonder if this was obvious when I glanced down at my love handles? Social Life’s conversation with Dr. Neinstein will continue in July.
Neinstein Plastic Surgery 135 East 74th Street 212.249.0949 drneinstein@neinsteinplasticsurgery.com Social Life
Photo of Dr. Ryan Neinstein by Vital Agibalow for HENSEL
By Jacob Puck
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DR . MICHELLE ZWEIFLER THE GIRL NEXT DOOR . . . WHO HAPPENS TO BE A CELEBRATED MANHATTAN PLASTIC SURGEON By Ken Roker In addition to Dr. Zweifler’s expertise, what sets her apart is her great sense of humor. Having just launched a new web site, Dr. Zweifler sat down with us to discuss her celebrated practice. We love the new site, especially all the videos! It really showcases the expanse of what you do! Thanks! I think it’s important for my patients to really get to know my practice and me. My plastic surgery videos educate patients about procedures and they get a sense of my personality. By the way, I hope you check out the Elbow Lift video. That’s a real thing? It sure is!
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f you ask Dr. Michelle Zweifler where she gets true satisfaction as a preëminent Manhattan plastic surgeon, she’ll tell you that it’s typically from breast augmentation or various other body procedures. “They represent instant gratification for many of my clients, and in many cases, that’s why they come to me. They want a change, and my job is to deliver it,” she says, with the caveat that, although she loves bodywork, she also derives gratification from the expert procedures she does from the neck up. “I love face-lifting, restoring someone back to where they once were,” she says. “People come to me and say they look like their mother. But, they want to look like themselves, not like their aging mother!” Dr. Zweifler is truly one of a kind. First, she doesn’t look old enough to be performing surgery. In recent years, Dr. Zweifler, whose practice spans everything from simple injections to full restorative surgery, has been featured in The New York Times, New York Magazine, New York Post, and on CNN, Fox News, Eyewitness News 7, WB11, CNN Headline News, and NY1.
What’s the hot procedure right now? People still like injections, with new products coming to market. It is just part of the beauty routine. We understand maintenance — getting your hair cut, getting a manicure and pedicure, and getting injections. It’s just one more thing that we do as we age. Don’t injections last only so long? Absolutely, and that’s why my practice is about building relationships. Patients return regularly for their injections, Botox, and some fillers, but eventually you’re going to need a brow lift, a facelift, or your eyelids done. That requires getting to know someone over a long period of time, and that’s what I do. It’s what I love.
Dr. Michelle Zweifler 800-A Fifth Avenue Suite 302 drmichellezweifler.com 212.355.0500 Social Life
Photo of Dr. Michelle Zweifler by Vital Agibalow for HENSEL
OK, so definitely a smaller part of your practice, but it certainly illuminates the extent of what can be done. What do you think sets your practice apart? For one thing, I’m a woman, and I think a lot of clients know that I can identify with them. I look pretty natural, kind of that girl next door. I actually had plastic surgery when I was in high school; upon awakening I decided it’s what I wanted to do as a career. So, I can relate to the population who wants to look good. I go to the gym five days a week, I eat healthy, and I try to keep my body and my face in shape — with a little procedure here and there.
www.CoolZoneCryo.com
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THE PERFECT VA-JAY-JAY I BET THAT GOT YOUR ATTENTION! By Justine Morgan
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nown for his expertise in vaginal reconstruction, Dr. Amir Marashi has been coined the “vagina whisperer” for mastering the art of creating the perfect vagina. A board-certified OB/GYN physician with special expertise in providing advanced cosmetic gynecology procedures, Dr. Marashi is called on by society’s elite who have struggled with either cosmetic or functional issues related to their lady parts. Size, shape, tightness, ability to moisten, you name it, he’s fixed it. Never heard of this? Well, the number of women undergoing the surgery has grown exponentially from 5,000 in 2013 to nearly 9,000 in 2015. Dr. Marashi himself has performed more than 400 vaginal procedures, averaging about 80 to 100 per year. His mission is to “help women feel more self-confident”
and more sexy. Many of his patients have even reported having better orgasms! The “vagina whisperer” is expert in a variety of minimally invasive and surgical procedures that patients choose for cosmetic and medical reasons, or to increase sexual satisfaction. He uses FemiLift, a laser that tightens the vagina, increases vaginal lubrication, and helps urinary incontinence. Dr. Marashi’s surgical procedures can reduce inner and outer labia, reconstruct the vaginal canal, reduce the clitoral hood, and repair the damaged perineum after childbirth. The miracle of science can also make a woman a virgin again, by restoring a broken hymen to its virginal state. And who knew you could have your G-spot amplified! Dr. Marashi has been called on by some of the biggest names in Hollywood to marry art and science to help better their femininity. But, his clientele is in no way limited to socialites and fashion divas. He has rebuilt hymens for women in order to prove their virginity at marriage and has performed two clitoral reconstructions for victims of genital mutilation. Not many doctors can claim that. Women’s grooming trends are at an all-time high and talking about beautifying your down under has become less taboo as an increasing number of celebrities brag about their couture vaginas. British model Katie Price and Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Brandi Glanville have been known to boast of their special new look. Dr. Marashi is acutely aware of the influence this has on younger women and is committed to apprising patients that some procedures are elective, not something they need to do. He wants patients to make educated decisions for themselves. Based in New York, Dr. Marashi can be found at the Aesthetic Rejuvenation Center with office locations in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Staten Island. He completed his residency at New York-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, where he is still affiliated. He also did research at Stanford University and is the founder of the International Obstetricians and Gynecologists Foundation. He is the recipient of New York-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital’s Healers’ Hall of Fame Award and its Humanitarian Award, for volunteering in Haiti. Dr. Amir Marashi nycfar.com Instagram @ NYCGYNO Social Life
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SOUTHAMPTON WELLNESS HOT SPOTS By Zoe Bullock
JUICE PRESS
SLT
For a 100% USDA organic-certified, cold-pressed juice or juice cleanse, check out Juice Press. Pick up a green juice or a Master Cleanse spicy lemonade, or for a real kick, try Juice Press’s cold brew coffee for a perfect breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up.
According to SLT, “If cardio, strength training, and Pilates had a baby, it would be SLT.” SLT — strength, lengthen, tone — is one of the hottest work-outs of the summer and of the whole year. Book your megaformer now for a 50-minute whole body work-out.
CROSSFIT 11968
BANDIER
For a grueling sweat session, try Crossfit 11968. Coach Mike Bunce combines classic Crossfit work-outs with his own creative flair, producing a work-out that is not for the faint of heart, but accessible both to work-out aficionados and newbies. Check their schedule for outdoor beach work-outs this summer, to incorporate the great Hamptons outdoors into your exercise routine.
For the hottest in work-out clothes and athleisure, check out Bandier. Bandier accommodates all work-out styles, all fashions, and all ages for the perfect and most comfortable work-out look this summer.
ANANDA YOGA CENTER For some zen, climb to this second floor studio and step into the Ananda Yoga Center. Offering classes of between 60 and 90 minutes long and of varying intensities, this yoga studio offers respite from the busy Hamptons season. Books about meditation, peace candles, and mala bead necklaces are sold in the shop out front, and the peaceful studio overlook sJob’s Lane.
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SECOND NATURE The quintessential health food store Second Nature is the perfect stop for a protein shake, allergy conscious eating, and supplements. With over nineteen years of experience, the staff at Second Nature is a qualified resource to put you on a path of health and wellness.
PURE BARRE If you’re in the mood for a barre class, check out Pure Barre on Job’s Lane. Inside a small, stylish studio, perfect your barre technique at the largest, most established barre franchise in the United States.
H E A LT H & B E AU T Y
DR . JOHN SALERNO By Kara LaBranche
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r. John Salerno is a masterful practitioner of complementary medicine, which combines traditional medicine and holistic therapies to treat all aspects of a person — body, mind, and spirit. He is the founder and director of the Salerno Center for Complementary Medicine. His latest book, Fight Fat with Fat, offers tips to look your best this summer. Dr. Salerno is a renowned physician who is board certified in family medicine. He, in fact, was specially chosen to oversee the health of 9/11 landfill workers who sorted through toxic debris after the terrorist attack. He studied with the famed Dr. Robert Atkins, creator of The Atkins Diet, and his work with Dr. Atkins now informs his center’s approach to diet. The Salerno Center for Complementary Medicine treats the entire person, not just symptoms. His approach combines traditional medicine with the wisdom of alternative therapies, helping patients to live healthier and happier lives. His mission is to help individuals achieve their highest level of wellness. Dr. Salerno is a go-to physician for health-conscious celebrities. Dr. Salerno doesn’t want his patients to just shed pounds; he wants his patients to feel good, eat well, and be conscious of the changes that occur in their bodies as they integrate the Salerno method into their lives. Fight Fat with Fat details how so-called diet foods actually cause health problems. Diet foods are usually deficient in the key nutrients and vital ingredients our body’s systems need to function properly. Recently, the myth that high cholesterol leads to heart disease and death has been debunked. This is outlined in his book, with a clear food plan for readers to follow and achieve their summer bod.
BELOW ARE SOME OF FIGHT FAT WITH FAT’S INSIDE HACKS SATURATED FATS Yes, people, they are actually good for you. So don’t freak out when you see the grams of saturated fat on a food wrapper. Dr. Salerno believes that if a diet is hard to maintain because of flavorless foods and starvation pains, it will quickly become a former diet.
CARBS Use good judgment with foods, and you’ll keep your diet on the right path. Dr. Salerno suggests focusing on good carbs, like green leafy vegetables, brown rice, lentils, and raspberries. You’ll feel fuller longer, and good carbs will naturally stabilize your blood-sugar level. He asserts that a low-carb diet is the way to slim down for the sizzling months ahead. Dr. John Salerno 12 East 52nd Street salernocenter.com
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SmilesNY is a leading cosmetic dental practice that has been serving discerning New Yorkers, celebrities, and international business executives for over 25 years. Our practice was created on the promise of working with our patients to achieve optimal oral health and transform their smiles.
DR. STEVEN ROTH & DR. TIMOTHY CHASE 220 EAST 63 RD STREET NEW YORK CITY 212.752.6537
S M I L E S N Y. C O M
F E AT U R E S N A O M I WAT T S
F E AT U R E S
NAOMI WATTS AND THE BOOK OF HENRY By Jan Janssen and Uma Fairchild
Naomi Watts, the talented and ubiquitous movie star who has had two Oscar nominations (among 102 nominations for various awards and 42 wins) . . . is, in fact, a very quiet, under-the-radar resident of Montauk (and New York City). Many are surprised by this because you won’t see the golden-haired actress in the society pages of East End glossies. What does Naomi do with her time in the Hamptons? Like many A-listers, she comes to the East End to avoid the “scene.” She instead, quite happily, spends time fishing with her children. Yes, the actress who turns heads in Oscar de la Renta on red carpets around the world also hooks squids and worms for her two sons, eight-year-old Samuel and nine-year-old Alexander. But when she isn’t carrying a tackle box to a marsh, Naomi is making films and these films, for the most part, tend to be quite unsettling. Naomi Watts enjoys being pulled out of her comfort zone and led into darker psychological territory because that is where she gets “the kick” out of acting. Off camera, however, the 48-year-old Watts is shy, a little hesitant talking about herself, but ever gracious. She was eager, though, to open up about her new film, The Book of Henry, a twisting psychological thriller directed by Colin Trevorrow (Jurassic World).
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The film centers on a single suburban mother, Susan Watts, and her two children, who find themselves caught up in a terrifying mystery. Susan’s older son, Henry (Jaeden Lieberher), is an eleven-year-old child genius who has assumed many family responsibilities, including mentoring his younger brother, Peter (Jacob Tremblay). After discovering that Christina, Henry’s classmate who lives next door, is guarding a dangerous secret, Susan is finally inspired to take charge of her family when Henry devises a plot to help Christina escape her difficult situation. For Watts, the story of a woman forced by circumstances to overcome her selfdoubts and evolve into an active and empowered mother resonated deeply: “Every mom wants to do her absolute best as a parent,” Watts says. “I often feel guilty if I don’t think I’m properly on top of things, so I understood my character’s dilemma. She has figured out that her gifted son is capable of doing certain things much better than she can, and she lets Henry take over a lot of household responsibilities. Still, she’s not completely at ease with that balance even though it works well in her family’s case. Then, in the course of things, she is called upon to get more involved and become the best mother she can be.”
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Appearing at the CinemaCon event in Las Vegas recently, Watts appeared almost embarrassed to receive the “Distinguished Decade” award on closing night. But the lithe Aussie actress was grateful for the honor and rocked a dazzling white Miu Miu dress featuring intricate lace patterns and a sheer midriff. She completed the look with black Manolo Blahnik wedge heels, a large shimmering necklace, and a black clutch purse. Naomi, The Book of Henry is a dark thriller, a genre you’ve often enjoyed acting in over your career? This story had a very human quality to it when it comes to this mother who struggles with herself and how she tries to manage her family. But what really made things more exciting was all the gear changes that take place. There are so many unexpected twists and turns in this film that really appealed to me. You think you’re relaxing into one genre and then the story takes a new direction and it’s suddenly a very different kind of drama. There are some difficult choices that need to be made by Susan. What is your take on that even though we can’t really get into the details? My character wrestles with what she should do under the circumstances. Something is going wrong next door. So she’s dealing with the question of how far do you go in that situation and whether vengeance is a good or acceptable notion. How did you approach the kind of mother–son dynamic between your character and her gifted son Henry? That was another great element to things. There’s a role reversal taking place within this family. Susan has decided that Henry is capable of handling a lot of things in the house even though that’s one thing a parent should never allow to happen. Then as events unfold she discovers her strength and her purpose as a mother and you see her experience a kind of epiphany and the family roles reverse again. As an actor, you look for films where you can explore those kind of profound changes and transformations that take place within people. Have you ever had any weird or mysterious neighbors yourself ? I’ve had a few. But usually you’re so busy with your own lives that you often don’t have that much contact with your neighbors. I’ve been living in New York for many years, where people live very close together and I’ve never had much contact with my neighbors.
SocialLifeMagazine.com
As a mother of two young boys yourself, how do you sort out all the feelings that moms experience in trying to be the ideal parent? Moms are always multitasking and struggling to get their kids ready for school, making sure they’re eating properly, and usually racing around trying to get things done during the day. Working moms also have the stress of wanting to succeed in their careers and still make sure they’re spending enough time with their children. You’re always plagued by guilt and no matter how much you get done you’re always thinking you could have done better. How do you handle the daily stresses of being a mother? [Laughs] There are days when everything is going wrong and I’ll be very critical of myself. Then there will be other days where I feel really good that I’ve been able to accomplish a lot and feel that I’ve done a good job looking after my kids. But you’re never going to get it right all the time. I work a lot, so I always deal with the guilt that comes with not being able to tuck my kids into bed at night as often as I would like. I just try to do my best. Your work in Mulholland Drive for David Lynch kickstarted your Hollywood career. But you went through some very tough years prior to that in L.A. That was a pretty rough time in my life. I felt very lonely and isolated and I would often be sitting by myself in cafés and spend a lot of time by myself. It was a strange experience that I went through. I still wonder how that happened to me because I love being sociable and spending time with people. L.A. is just a tough place if you’re not working and you’re not successful. Until David Lynch gave me the chance of a lifetime, I was just lurching from one job to another hoping to have enough money not to worry about paying the rent. I was lucky, though. David Lynch is reviving his iconic Twin Peaks series and you’re going to be working on it. What can you tell us about that? Nothing. I’m not allowed to say a thing. But it really doesn’t matter, because the way David works he doesn’t tell you anything about the story or exactly what you’re going to be doing anyway!
POLOHAMPTONS.COM
POLO REBORN MICHAEL BORRICO By Lauren Robertson
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you long for the days when polo was king in Bridgehampton, you’re not alone. Not only did the uberexclusive activity attract the likes of European royalty, Hollywood superstars, and the fabulously wealthy, it was the touchstone for an entire culture: yes, there was a time when Polo Ralph Lauren and Beverly Hills Polo Club were a thing. Many of us still wax nostalgic when we see that little embroidered emblem on our shirts. And then there’s sexy, and one name immediately comes to mind: Nacho Figueros. Famed polo enthusiast and player Michael Borrico is among those who fondly remember the old days, and his enduring cachet is in the prominent role he played in bringing polo to prominence in the Hamptons in the early days.
While today he is mostly an enthusiast, and spends a good deal of time happily in love with his beautiful girlfriend, the floral designer Elisabeth Santana, Borrico is well known among the polo elite as a player, an organizer, and an ambassador of the all-important Hamptons polo culture. “For me it’s both nostalgic and true passion. I discovered polo in Argentina in the 1990s, and quickly fell in love with everything the sport has to offer, from the excitement of watching the game to honing my skills as a player,” says Borrico. “Eventually my love of the sport grew into the real thrill of meeting and playing on the same field with the world’s top professionals.” It’s safe to say that Borrico was among the pantheon of superstars who quickly helped make the Hamptons the destinaSocial Life
POLOHAMPTONS.COM
tion for polo in the United States. After all, he was coached by the likes of professionals such as Figueras, Mariano Aguerre, Nic Roldan, Nick Manifold, and Martin Pepa. “For me, it eventually morphed from a sport into a lifestyle,” says Borrico, who credits Pepa as a true mentor. “And, I wasn’t alone. Polo came to define the Hamptons.” Sadly, the polo scene has gone quiet in recent years due to a number of pressures. But Borrico says that the Hamptons will have a welcome taste of the old days when Social Life Magazine, in collaboration with other major sponsors, hosts Polo Hamptons on July 24 from 4 pm to 7 pm at the Southampton Polo Club. According to Borrico, this will be the type of upscale, luxury event that the East End has been yearning for. “It was an SocialLifeMagazine.com
honor to be contacted by Social Life publisher Justin Mitchell to get my thoughts on what this event should look like, so I have been thrilled to lend my support wherever possible,” he says. Namely, Borrico has taken on the task of putting together the team for the event. While he hints that there will likely be some big names on board (he’s in the process of making some calls, and Nacho just might be on his list), what he will reveal is that the event will feature a robust combination of well-known seasoned players as well as some rising-star amateurs. Teams will be determined a couple of weeks in advance: Social Life Magazine will naturally be prominently displayed on one of the team’s shirts, he says. Obviously busy with lending his hand to planning the event
POLOHAMPTONS.COM
Helena Giersch, Kelly Rutherford, Hermes Giersch
of the season, Borrico took a breather for a recent conversation about the old days and how polo will be reborn for one important day. It’s no longer a rumor that polo will have a brief but impactful resurgence at what promises to be an important social event this summer. It’s definitely not a rumor and, in fact, thanks to Justin Mitchell, we are bringing it back in a big way on July 24. With new sponsorships, a great party, and some of the glitz and glamour that we’ve missed the past few years. It’s very exciting, and a lot of people will enjoy it. I anticipate that it will get a lot of attention! What is it about polo that was and continues to be romanticized and important to the Hamptons? I think everyone has a natural attraction to the horses and the players. It really has a great sexiness to it, just like the Hamptons itself. I mean, many of the players are South American, so they are all handsome and fit . . . in that way, it’s also very
Beth Ostosky Stern
masculine! It’s also exclusive, and people here love that, too. Bundling that all together makes it alluring. I mean, fashion designers have used polo to launch entire brands! When you throw in the fashion, the parties, and everything else, it’s just a phenomenon that can’t be equaled. So, what happened? Where did it go? Probably about five years ago, many of the polo fields lost their leases and a number of the major players retired. Are people yearning for it to come back? Absolutely. From mid-July to Labor Day weekend, the crowds would be in the thousands, and the lists were pretty tight. It was an A-list group for sure. Getting into the tent was a thing every Saturday and Sunday. You knew it was a big deal from some of the sponsors, too. Absolutely. Mercedez-Benz, Ralph Lauren, perfumes, jewelry, all high-end. Social Life
POLOHAMPTONS.COM
(Top) Guests (Bottom) Michael Borrico
It feels like there’s been quite a gap, like part of the culture has been missing. Definitely. People would plan weeks in advance to attend! Celebrities were all over the place, and people would use their influence to get on the list. It was a big part of the Hamptons. To be fair, it hasn’t really gone away; we’ve just been playing without a high goal Saturday polo event and the social scene it would attract. Polo has sort of fallen off without it to look forward to every week. What we have now isn’t as fast, but still quite competitive. Everyone who has been involved in the sport wants to bring back the high goal and wants the opportunity to experience it the way it once was. Polo Hamptons, and the event on July 24 will recreate those glory days by injecting some much needed luxury, sensation, and buzz around the sport. It’s very exciting. A lot of people will truly enjoy this. So, you still play? Of course, and I still enjoy it. SocialLifeMagazine.com
Nacho Figueras, Elio Pacheco, Michael Borrico
What’s your favorite memory of the old days? Oh man! The parties afterwards were always a blast! Seriously though, the build-up to a special game day and being able to play at the field in Bridgehampton, and looking back at a tent with thousands in attendance, and hundreds more lined up trying to get in. That was just exciting as hell! So it sounds like you’re really looking forward to this summer. I’m already having those game day memories, and I can’t wait to experience some of that again.
Polo Hamptons Match and Event 2017 will take place at the Southampton Polo Club on June 24 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, please visit
polohamptons.com
MATCH & EVENT 2017 PRESENTED BY
DRINKS & HORS D’OEUVRES Laurent-Perrier Champagne MUSIC BY Lee Kalt SOUTHAMPTON POLO CLUB 206 Millstone Road, Bridgehampton Saturday, June 24 4 pm – 7 pm
limited tickets available at
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Air Charty Team Dawn & Frank Bodenchak for Sotheby’s International Realty EVENT PARTNER
S O C I ET Y — PA RT Y B E S T O F — EV E N T S
JEAN SHAFIROFF AND MAYOR MARK EPLEY
MAYOR MARK EPLEY By Jean Shafiroff
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t this year’s 21st Heart Ball, the annual American Heart Association gala, on June 10, the Village of Southampton will receive an award for being a Heart-Safe Community. Heart powercouple, Dr. Ralph Mosca and Dr. Lori Mosca, will also be honored. Jean Shafiroff, a former American Heart Association honoree and a co-chair of this year’s American Heart Association gala, interviews Mayor Mark Epley on the importance of heart health and the American Heart Association.
Photo of Jean Shafiroff by Michael Paniccia
What makes the Village of Southampton a heart-safe community? Almost seven years ago, my mother-in-law, Annette Benedict, died from a heart attack. I had read about heart-safe communities and decided to approach several members of the Southampton Village Volunteer Ambulance, who took the concept and ran with it. The long-term plan includes early recognition of cardiac arrest, widespread CPR training, and public access defibrillation. We have implemented an annual CPR training in the school system, where the majority of students are trained. We have improved ambulance response times and communication with the hospital. We have installed AEDs in various public spaces, although we need more. Goals are to educate people on the signs and symptoms of cardiac arrest and improve one’s chances of survival. Do you think it is important for people to learn CPR? I think everyone should learn CPR for both adults and infants. I also believe everyone should have basic first-aid training and also know how to respond to a choking victim, again for both adults and infants. Why is it important for you to live in a heart-safe community? We all have a responsibility to help our fellow man. A heart-safe community is an extension of that responsibility. Several years ago Social Life
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we had an incident in the Village where a lady went into cardiac arrest at a gathering. Two volunteer fire fighters and an off-duty nurse were there. They began CPR on the woman while 911 was called. Within minutes the Village police and the Southampton Village Volunteer Ambulance [SVVA] were on the scene. The equipment SVVA operates communicates directly with the emergency room at Southampton and Stony Brook hospitals. She was medevacked via helicopter to Stony Brook Hospital, where they were waiting for her with a fully prepared operating room within 25 minutes of the 911 call going out. She is alive today because we live in a heart-safe community. Why do you support the American Heart Association? The American Heart Association is an important organization that raises money for research and public education to help in the battle to fight heart disease. Heart disease is the number one cause of death in the United States and it impacts everyone. In October, my 50-yearold younger brother, who seemed to be a very physically fit person, experienced a heart attack. Fortunately, they recognized the signs and went to the emergency room immediately. He is alive today. How do you make sure you are living a heart-healthy lifestyle? I try to exercise and eat right. I see a cardiologist, and have an annual physical. Will you be attending the Hamptons Heart Ball on June 10th at the Southampton Art Center? I definitely will be attending. My father-in-law, George Benedict, is a co-chair of the event, and the American Heart Association is recognizing the Village of Southampton as a heart-safe community. The American Heart Association’s Annual Heart Ball will be on June 10 at the Southampton Arts Center. The gala will include dinner, dancing, and an auction. An after-party at the same location will follow. For more information on the event, please call 516.962.0806 or go to hamptonsheartball.heart.org
SocialLifeMagazine.com
Mark Epley, Marianne Epley
ABOUT HEART DISEASE AND STROKES Heart disease and strokes significantly impact our communities. On average, heart disease claims the lives of nearly 45,000 New York State residents each year, and strokes claims the lives of over 6,000 residents. But in many cases, heart disease and strokes are preventable. The American Heart Association/American Stroke Association (AHA) is the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary organization providing public health education to help individuals live healthier lives and reduce their risk of heart disease and stroke. Its programs, educational resources, and advocacy initiatives are all targeted at helping people identify and adopt healthier lifestyles. AHA provides science-based treatment guidelines to healthcare professionals to ensure the best treatment for every patient at all times. AHA educates lawmakers, policy makers, and the public, and advocates for changes to protect and improve the health of our communities. ABOUT MAYOR MARK EPLEY Mark Epley was first elected in 2005 as the Mayor of the Village of Southampton. He has been re-elected six times. He is the CEO of Seafield Center, a hundred-bed in-patient substance-abuse treatment center with six outpatient programs. Mayor Epley is married to the former Marianne Benedict and together they have four children, two daughters-in-law, and three grandchildren. ABOUT JEAN SHAFIROFF Jean Shafiroff, a philanthropist, a humanitarian, an activist, and the author of Successful Philanthropy: How to Make a Life By What You Give, is a volunteer leader of several charitable causes. She serves on the boards of eight charities and, in addition, is an ambassador for the American Humane Society. Jean is married to Martin D. Shafiroff, an investments advisor, and together they have two daughters. She and her family reside in Manhattan and Southampton.
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COSTUME INSTITUTE GALA AT THE MET CELEBRATES THE OPENING OF “REI KAWAKUBO/COMME DES GARÇONS: ART OF THE IN-BETWEEN” EXHIBITION May 2017 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17.
Anna Wintour Bella Hadid Reese Witherspoon Elle Fanning Jennifer Lopez Kate Hudson Chrissy Teigen, John Legend Lily James Emma Stone Hailey Baldwin Julianne Moore La La Halle Berry Gisele Bundchen Jennifer Connelly Matt Damon, Luciana Barroso Adriana Lima
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COSTUME INSTITUTE GALA MAY 2017 THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART 16
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NEW YORK CITY BALLET 2017 SPRING GALA May 2017
1. Cordelia Zanger 2. Amy Astley, Indre Rockefeller 3. Victor de Souza 4. Charlene Shorto, Carlos Souza 5. Harrison Hollingsworth, Megan LeCrone, Sean Read 6. Carol Mack, Richard Mishaan 7. Jamie Creel, Shirin von Wulffen 8. Unity Phelan, Cameron Dieck 9. Andy Snyder, Rachel Antonoff 10. Chase Finlay, Miriam Miller 11. Justin Peck, Emily Blavatnik All images thanks to PatrickMcMullan.com
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METROPOLITAN OPERA 50TH ANNIVERSARY GALA AT LINCOLN CENTER May 2017
1. Elina Garanca 2. Bart Sher, Kristin Flanders 3. Sonya Yoncheva 4. Michael Fabiano, Bryan McCalister 5. Jill Hennessy 6. Julianna Margulies, Keith Lieberthal 7. Isabel Leonard 8. Anna Netrebko 9. Vittorio Grigolo 10. Camelia Entekhabifard All images thanks to PatrickMcMullan.com
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OCIETY
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LLURE BY ROB RICH
ROGER BRIGGS, MICHELLE WOOD
ISIL YILDIZ, ISABEL YERKES
ALEKSANDRA CARDWELL, FABIENNE LÉCOLE
REGINA QUINN, CHARLES REGENSBURG
NANCY MCCABE, JEFF GIFKINS
SANDRA AND STEFAN AMRALI
DEBBIE DICKINSON, ALEXIS MAYER
JANA BULLOCK
BEAU HULSE, PATRICIA HULSE
Photos by Rob Rich. For more photos go to societyallure.com
PARRISH ARTS MUSEUM 2017 SPRING FLING AT THE PARRISH ART MUSEUM IN WATER MILL
HOT SHOTS
JEAN SHAFIROFF PATRICK MCMULLAN
CANTINA ROOFTOP OPENS FOR SUMMER
A CHANCE IN LIFE FRANCESCA BRASCHI CHAIRS
Patrick McMullan hosted a dinner to kick off summer at Jue Lan Club to toast author Jean Shafiroff ’s book Successful Philanthropy. Guests included Michael Musto and the young philanthropists Jaqueline Kent Cooke, Larry Milstein, and his sister, Toby Milstein. Also in the mix: the Southampton and East Hampton dermatologist Dr. Kenneth Mark, beauty expert Jill Caruso, and vein specialist Dr. David Fox. jeanshafiroff.com
Cantina Rooftop and restaurant, whose fans include Hamptonites Sarah Jessica Parker and Sean Combs, celebrated the reopening of its hot spot with a new menu by Chef Gonzalo Colin, featuring authentic Mexican cuisine, including a variety of guacamoles made tableside. In the mix: Dale Noelle, the CEO of True Model Management; and Dr. Christopher Calapai, the stem cell guru. cantinarooftop.com
Senator Chuck Schumer and Italian Ambassador Armando Varricchio were among the supporters of the Chance in Life Gala, chaired by Countess Francesca Braschi, at The Pierre. The organization helps refugee children from 20 countries. Singer Karen King sang the national anthem and brought Tony Danza to meet this year’s honoree, Frank Bisignano, the CEO of First Data Corporation. achanceinlife.org
JEAN SHAFIROFF, PATRICK MCMULLAN
DR. CHRISTOPHER CALAPAI, SONJA MORGAN
CONTESSINA FRANCESCA BRASCHI, MICHAEL MAAG
AMANDA KAHN, DR. DAVID FOX
JAMIE HUGHES, DALE NOELLE
BERNADETTE MILITO, FRANK BISIGNANO
GONZALO COLIN, RICK BAYLESS
KAREN KING, TONY DANZA
JACQUELINE KENT COOKE, GEOFFERY BRADFIELD
SOCIETY
NIGHTLIFE By Joe Alexander with Photographs by Patrick McMullan
Hot Movies Scarlett Johansson is nearly naked in a rubberized body suit that leaves zero to the imagination in the exciting sci-fi action flick Ghost in the Shell, with Takeshi Kitano. This film looks good enough to be a new franchise for the blonde bombshell, who looks gorgeous in every frame. Scarlett confesses “I definitely believe in plastic surgery. I don’t want to be an old hag. There’s no fun in that.”... Jessica Chastain stars in The Zookeeper’s Wife, a gripping World War II period piece about Jews being rescued from the Warsaw ghetto. Of her role Chastain confides, “I think women in history are being ignored. Femininity is not weakness.”
Scarlett Johansson @ Ghost in the Shell
Glenn Close @ Sunset Boulevard
Best of Broadway
If you see only one Broadway show this summer, see Glenn Close in Sunset Boulevard. She is thrilling and the music by Andrew Lloyd Webber is unforgettable. When Close was asked what her favorite piece of memorabilia is, after her Oscar and Tony Awards, she said, “The knife from Fatal Attraction. I hung it in my kitchen. It’s my way of saying, ‘Don’t mess with me.’ The show has been extended through June 25… The ever-fabulous Patti LuPone is back on Broadwway, playing beauty mogul Helena Rubinstein in the new musical War Paint. Her co-star is the irresistible Christine Ebersole, who plays Elizabeth Arden, Rubinstein’s arch rival in the cosmetic world. This is a luminous night at the theatre, where both stars chew up the scenery and belt out their numbers … Singer-songwriter Shea Arender who last appeared Off Broadway in The Wonderful Wizard of Song, The Harold Arlen Story, has bought the Las Vegas Symphony. The orchestra, which has been silent for almost three decades, was founded in the 1980s to back stars such as Barry Manilow, Johnny Mathis, and Englebert Humperdinck. Arender will turn the symphony, composed of 40 musicians, into a pop orchestra and open with The King Symphonic – The Music of Elvis Presley this summer in Vegas. sheaarender.com
Jessica Chastain @ The Zookeeper’s Wife
Patti LuPone, Christine Ebersole @ War Paint
Hank Freid, Carissa Rosario, Brandon Freid @ The Sanctuary Hotel
Yoko Ono @ Longhouse Reserve
Sibylle Eschapasse, Robert Cenedella @ The End of the World
Toby Milstein, Larry Milstein @ NY–Presbyterian Hospital
LongHouse Reserve
East Hampton’s LongHouse Reserve celebrated the start of its 26th season by honoring the husband and wife architectural team Tod Williams and Billie Tsien, who are the designers of the Barack Obama Presidential Center in Chicago. LongHouse is set on 16 beautiful acres, with more than 60 sculptures in the gardens, including glass sculptures
Arthur Aidala, Megyn Kelly @ Brooklyn Bar Association
Cheri Kaufman, Sylvia Hemingway, Dr. Mirjana Blokar @ Budapest Festival Orchestra
Michael Anthony, Harriette Rose Katz @ C-CAP
Social Life
SOCIETY by Dale Chihuly, bronzes by Eric Fischl, Lynda Benglis, and Willem de Kooning as well as works by Yoko Ono, George Rickey, Alfonso Ossorio, and Buckminster Fuller. Through its art collection, LongHouse brings together art and nature, aesthetics and spirit, with the conviction that living with art in all its forms is central to living fully. The summer benefit, NAME IT, will be held on July 22 and will honor Alexandra Munroe and Cai Guo-Chang. longhouse.org
Young Philanthropists Jane Scher, Shea Arender @ Budapest Festival Orchestra
Lobbyist Brad Gerstman, Rosie Perez in Washington
Photos of Tony Ingrao, Susan Magrino, and Randy Kemper by BFA
Marcus Samuelsson, David Burtka, Neil Patrick Harris, Herb Karlitz @ Harlem Eat Up!
Bridgette Morphew, Jason Lyon in Southampton
Nicole Noonan, Alex Donner @ Mission Society
Mia Goth and Shia LaBeouf stayed at the Paper Factory Hotel
Coco Rocha @ Paper Factory Hotel
SocialLifeMagazine.com
Attorneys Nancy Chemtob, Susan Moss @ Mission Society
Randy Kemper, Susan Magrino, Tony Ingrao @ Kips Bay
Aleksandra Milicivic, Dr. Kenneth Mark @ Hope for Depression
George Schott Ledes, Christine Schott in Palm Beach
Bridgehamptonites Larry Milstein and his sister, Toby Milstein, spearhead the $5 million gift from the grandchildren of Vivian and Seymour Milstein to name the new infant cardiac unit at New York-Presbyterian/Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital. The dedication was presided over by the hospital’s president, Steven Corwin, M.D. Toby spoke about the contribution at the hospital’s recent fundraiser, emceed by Meredith Vieira. “We came together to continue our family’s legacy of supporting the hospital. Heart health is very important to our family, and for the next generation of the Milstein Family to be able to help the next generation of patients is heartwarming.” The funds will help create a new 17-bed unit to care for the most vulnerable patients and is set to open in June. nyp.org
C-CAP Daniel Boulud and Marcus Samuelsson joined 40 other top chefs for a grand tasting to benefit C-CAP (Careers through Culinary Arts Program), which funds scholarships for disadvantaged youth at Chelsea Piers. The evening honored Michael Anthony, the executive chef from Gramercy Tavern. WCB's Maurice DuBois served as the emcee. The benefit was orchestrated by event planner Harriette Rose Katz of Gourmet Advisory Services, who also founded The Chosen Few, an elite event collective whose members include Stamford Tents, Diana Gould Event Design and Floral Artistry, Michael Scott Events, and Natural Expressions photography. Guests included Southampton- and East Hampton- based dermatologist Dr. Kenneth Mark. hrkchosenfew.com
Budapest Festival Orchestra
Sylvia Hemingway hosted a dinner honoring Budapest Festival Orchestra’s conductor Iván Fischer, following the performance at Lincoln Center. Maestro Fischer conducted a Beethoven program that included Symphony No. 5. Forty students from Julliard and Bard College rushed the stage to perform with the orchestra. On another night, for the evening’s grand finale, Fischer sprinkled clandestine singers around the hall to surprise the audience by singing Ode to Joy during a brilliant Symphony No. 9. Leading the applause were Daisy Soros, Ambassadors Colleen Bell and Donald Blinken, Gianluigi and Adrienne Vittadini, Dr. Ferenc Kumin, CeCe Goldwater, beauty expert Jane Scher, and Shea Arender. bfz.hu
SOCIETY
CHARITY CIRCUIT By MJ Pedone
Hamptons
POLO HAMPTONS 2017 | JUNE 24 Polo Hamptons and Social Life Magazine are hosting a polo match and party/popup event under a tent, from 4 pm to 7 pm, Southampton Polo Club. The event is presented by Porsche. Open bar and passed hors d’oeuvres, Champagne, and seating. Free parking. For more info and tickets, go to polohamptons.com
ST. BARTH HAMPTONS 2017 | JULY 22 St. Barth Tourism and Social Life Magazine present this sixth annual event. The iconic Christie Brinkley is again the host for this exciting party and pop-up event under a tent, from 6 pm to 10 pm, Montauk Highway, Bridgehampton. Open bar, Champagne, passed hors d’oeuvres, lounge seating. For more info and tickets, go to stbarthhamptons.com
DECORATORS, DESIGNERS, DEALERS | JUNE 3 The 25th annual sale and auction benefit gala (D-D-D), benefiting the Southampton Fresh Air Home’s 116th year of camp for physically challenged children, is the highly anticipated opening fundraising party of the summer season. D-D-D features live, silent, and wine auctions as well as extraordinary home furnishings and antiques for sale. The auctions feature items from top names in fashion, jewelry, travel, fine dining, entertainment, sports, health, and beauty. The wine auction boasts a selection that could rival the best of any private collection. sfah.org
AN EVENING OF WINE AND ROSES | JUNE 4 Southampton Cultural Center’s annual gala will celebrate 31 years of education, exhibition, and performance. The evening promises delectable dishes and wines, live and silent auctions. scc-arts.org
MIDSUMMER NIGHT DRINKS | JUNE 10 God’s Love We Deliver will host its 17th annual fundraiser, this year at Calvin Klein’s home in Southampton. glwd.org
A NIGHT IN HAVANA | JUNE 17 All Against Abuse is a 22-year commitment to ending the cycle of violence for families on the East End. Over the past two decades, this signature event has raised over $2.5 million in support of The Retreat’s mission to provide safety, shelter, and support for victims of domestic abuse and to break the cycle of family violence. theretreatinc.org/retreat-events
HAMPTONS HEART BALL | JUNE 10 The American Heart Association will celebrate its work and mission as well as its donors and volunteers. The Heart Ball promises to be an engaging evening of fun and passion bringing community and philanthropic leaders together. Proceeds fund life-saving research and prevention programs in communities across the country. heart.org Social Life
New York City FORGET-ME-NOT GALA | JUNE 5 CaringKind, NYC’s expert on Alzheimer’s and dementia caregiving, will be hosting its annual gala at The Pierre, with master of ceremonies Nigel Barker. The black-tie evening will start with cocktails and a silent auction followed by dinner, live auction, and dancing. caringkindnyc.org
WE STAND FOR WILDLIFE GALA | JUNE 8 The evening will celebrate the Wildlife Conservation Society’s continued efforts to protect and advocate for wildlife and wild places. This black-tie event takes place in the Central Park zoo. Guests enjoy a reception around the sea lion pool and watch these curious, intelligent creatures make a splash during an educational feeding presentation, followed by dinner and dancing under the stars.
BROOKLYN BOTANIC GARDEN CENTENNIAL GALA | JUNE 6 Festive botanical attire encouraged. Tickets held at the door. Complimentary valet parking provided for cocktails and dinner guests. Proceeds from the spring gala provide essential support for the BBG’s programs and collections. bbg.org
TASTE OF SUMMER | JUNE 7 This event features culinary tastings prepared by the city’s best restaurants, craft cocktails, a live DJ, and a luxury-filled silent auction. Held at the Bethesda Terrace, this annual benefit for Central Park Conservancy supports the Conservancy’s mission to restore and maintain Central Park. centralparknyc.org
POWER OF A WISH GALA | JUNE 8 The Make-A-Wish Foundation is celebrating the impact of wishes large and small, from the people who make them possible to every eligible child, at the Metro New York gala. Join them for cocktails, a sumptuous dinner, and dancing at Cipriani Wall Street. metrony.wish.org
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EDUCATION THROUGH MUSIC | JUNE 12 This children’s benefit gala will be at Cipriani 42nd Street. This highly anticipated annual gala will honor Cushman and Wakefield, and feature performances by the violinist Joshua Bell, a Grammy Award-winning artist and longstanding board member. Other artists and the NYC partner-school students will also perform . . . always a highlight! ETM’s programs are reaching nearly 27,000 children at 46 partner schools in all five boroughs of New York City. etmonline.org
BELIEVE GALA | JUNE 13 Quality Services for the Autism Community’s (QSAC) annual gala raises funds to support programs and services for children and adults with autism living throughout New York City and Long Island. The Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers in New York City. qsac.com
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WHERE PERSEVERANCE MEETS PHILANTHROPY OPPORTUNITY IS BORN By Christopher London With Photos By Gregory Partanio and ManhattanSociety.com
“You can’t always get what you want But if you try sometimes well you might find You get what you need” ~ Keith Richards | Mick Jagger
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ruth is that the world isn’t always everyone’s oyster. The struggle is real for many younger citizens. For some, the race begins far from the starting line and outside the arena of opportunity. Yet, the most driven among them somehow never give up, even when their shelter is meager and their access to nutrition and a solid education is illusive. But some never give up and are lucky enough to get some help along the way. In America, where perseverance meets philanthropy, opportunity is born. Opportunity that doesn’t just fill the lives of the individual with greater purpose and meaning but helps to maintain our democracy and the future of our nation. This is what the dollars pumped into organizations like HealthCorps, The Opportunity Network, and East Side Settlement House do. These organizations change lives, and give opportunity that is essential to keeping alive the American Dream. To those of you supporting these organizations, I salute you. THE OPPORTUNITY NETWORK’S 10th ANNUAL NIGHT OF OPPORTUNITY GALA AT CIPRIANI WALL STREET RAISES $2.1 MILLION On April 24, The Opportunity Network, a New York-based charity founded in 2003 to help students from underserved schools access competitive colleges, career opportunities, and professional networks, honored David H. McCormick, the co-CEO of Bridgewater Associates; John F. Megrue, Jr., the chairman of Apax Partners, U.S.; and Will Packer, a leading Hollywood TV and film producer. Over 850 prominent New Yorkers attended the gala. Honorees were joined by a slate of guests that included entrepreneurs and leaders in media, entertainment, medicine, law, hospitality, and finance. Included were Nicky Hilton Rothschild and James Rothschild, Alan Patricof, Louise Camuto, George Hall, Thabiti Boone, Gigi Stone, and Dendy Engelmann. They mingled with Opportunity Network students at the reception before moving into the dining room for the dinner and program. Daniel Craig, an Opportunity Network board member and a globally celebrated actor of stage and screen, sent a video welcoming guests. David McCormick said, “The magic in this room is what we need for our country. We’re launching hundreds of careers marked by meaningful contribution.” McCormick’s global macro investment
Dan O’Keefe, John Megrue, Alan Patricof, Jason Wright
Louise Camuto, John Megrue
James Rothschild, Nicky Hilton Rothschild
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Jason Wright, Jessica Pliska
Heather Packer, Will Packer
Alex Merrell
Philip L Yang, Eloise Yang, Julia Lipari, Maria Yang
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firm has over $160 billion in assets. His distinguished public service career includes serving as the Under Secretary of the Treasury for International Affairs, the Deputy National Security Advisor, and the Under Secretary of Commerce for Industry and Security. Renowned film and television producer Will Packer told the guests, “You are making a difference. You are bridging the gap.” Packer is one of Hollywood’s blockbuster hit-makers and has had nine films open number one at the box office. Some of his successes include Straight Outta Compton, the Ride Along, franchise, and Think Like a Man franchise. John Megrue, Jr. said his philanthropic journey has been a big part of his life. In addition to longtime support for OppNet, Megrue serves as the chairman of Born Free Africa, a nonprofit working to eliminate HIV in newborn children around the world. Nicky Hilton Rothschild summed up the evening in a late night tweet, “inspiring evening at @OppNet’s gala. Truly life changing work as told by the students.” EAST SIDE HOUSE SETTLEMENT GALA PREVIEW RAISES $500,000 FOR EDUCATION & SOCIAL SERVICES On April 13, East Side House Settlement (ESH) hosted the 18th annual gala preview of the 2017 New York International Auto Show at the Jacob K. Javits Center. The event raised more than $500,000 for the East Side House Settlement, a community-based nonprofit organization providing education and social services throughout northern Manhattan and the Bronx. The event was made possible through the generosity of the Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association (GNYADA) and the New York International Auto Show, as part of a proud tradition of dedicated community service. More than 1,2000 guests from the worlds of finance, fashion, society, and philanthropy enjoyed a private viewing of the entire auto show before it officially opened to the public on April 14. The gala preview included cocktails, a private dinner for benefactors, and a curated display of the latest Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles. Adding to the night’s festivities were specialty cocktails by Tito’s Handmade Vodka and Prosecco DOC, as well as music by DJ Alex Merrell. The gala preview was chaired by Philip L. Yang and Christopher LaSusa, and the benefit committee was co-chaired by Samuel P.C. Dangremond, Stuart Orenstein, and Eric Wittenberg. Guests included Fe Fendi, Mindaugas Kuzminskas (New York Knicks), Robin Lord Taylor (FOX’s Gotham), Christopher and Jennifer LaSusa, Philip and Maria Yang, Chris Marchand, Mark Schienberg, David and Joss Sackler, Lacary Sharpe, Elizabeth Donnem Sigety, Richard W. Ziegelasch. The highlight of the evening was an exciting live auction of the country’s first 2018 Range Rover Velar, the fourth member of the Range Rover family, bringing a new dimension of modernity and elegance through luxury, refinement, and all-terrain capability never before seen in a mid-size SUV segment. Other exciting live auction packages included a one-year lease of a 2018 Land Rover Discovery, a luxury Aman: USA travel package, and a weekend stay at a blackberry farm in Walland, Tennessee.
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Lisa Oz, Dr Mehmet Oz
Rocco DiSpirito, Nicola Mar
John Jovanovic, Daphne Oz
Rosanna Scotto, Greg Kelly
ROCCO DISPIRITO HONORED BY DR. OZ AT the 11TH ANNUAL HEALTHCORPS GALA HealthCorps, a national nonprofit that gives young people in high-need populations life-saving skills designed to foster physical and mental fitness from a young age, honored the chef and healthy lifestyle crusader Rocco DiSpirito with the Golden Heart Award at the 11th annual gala on April 3, at Pier Sixty on Chelsea Piers. Dr. Mehmet Oz, HealthCorps’ chairman, presented DiSpirito with the organization’s highest honor for his unwavering commitment to empowering students to embrace the benefits of healthy and delicious cooking. The gala raised $1 million. Money raised will go to support the organization’s in-school health and wellness programming. DiSpirito was unanimously selected for the Golden Heart Award, which recognizes leaders who encourage youth to create simple lifestyle changes that enhance their own health and the well-being of family and friends around them. For nearly a decade, DiSpirito has served as an inspiring advocate for the organization and regularly performs cooking demonstrations, judges cooking competitions, visits schools with his food truck, and participates in community events on behalf of HealthCorps. “We treasure Rocco DiSpirito’s dedication as a HealthCorps ambassador and the impact he’s made on young people as they get excited about cooking and eating healthier,” said HealthCorps’ president, Michelle Bouchard. “Through his life-changing and lifesaving work, he has motivated and encouraged tens of thousands of youth to make better life and food choices.”
“I’m incredibly honored to receive the Golden Heart Award and am privileged to have the opportunity to team up with HealthCorps as we work towards a common goal: to ignite a shift towards healthier living,” said DiSpirito. “Visiting schools, showing kids that healthy and delicious are not mutually exclusive, and giving them the tools to build healthy habits from a young age has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.” The black tie “Tropical Garden” gala was hosted by Dr. Oz, the renowned cardio-thoracic surgeon and seven- time, Daytime Emmy Award-winning host of The Dr. Oz Show,” and his wife, Lisa Oz. Over 600 guests enjoyed gift bags filled with DiSpirito’s bestselling book The Negative Calorie Diet, alongside his popular Rocco’s Organic Protein Powder Plus and healthy new, sugar-free dark chocolate bars, among other gifts. HealthCorps is building a nationwide movement to shape a new generation. HealthCorps coordinators lead unique in-school and community programming designed to foster physical and mental fitness, particularly among high-need populations. The coordinators serve as peer-mentors who deliver a progressive curriculum in nutrition, exercise, and mental strength to students nationwide. HealthCorps schools have served a living labs through which we can explore the complex, underlying causes of the obesity crisis, as well as discover, communicate, implement, and advocate for national and regional solutions. Social Life
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ROBERT CANBERG
ANDREA CORREALE
PURDY TRAN JOHN MALIK
JENNY NUYEN, LARA CLAY
ROB KEY, YOSSI MAESER
EMILIA, SEBASTIAN, KYLE BERRY
ERIN DANA AND ABE LICHY
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LISA AQUILINO REBECCA WOODLAND
RANDY SCOTT
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65 DUNE ROAD HAMPTONS STAR POWER By Ken Conroy
65 Dune Road, East Quogue
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here’s no disputing that Hamptons real estate sets it apart from just about any other destination. From palatial traditionals to cutting-edge modern masterpieces, just reviewing listings can be mouthwatering. It makes sense that real estate professionals have become superstars in their own right. And whether you’re a buyer or a seller, aligning yourself with true star power makes all the difference. Take Robert Canberg. He began his real estate career in the luxury residential market and, over time, has added commercial real estate expertise to his skill set, developing and selling both high-end residential and commercial property on both the South Fork and North Fork. He is laser-focused on his passion: to always meet his clients’ needs through tough but fair negotiation and an acute attention to detail. Canberg’s thoughts on the market are below: what’s hot this year, and what sets him apart.
Your many years in real estate in the Hamptons has really broadened and deepened your skill set. How does this give you an edge when it comes to developing exceptional customer relationships and truly delivering? Like anything else in life, when you’ve been around long enough, experience is really the best teacher. I understand and access scenarios quickly, which puts my client in the absolute best position to strike and make a deal. What’s your overall secret to success? My passion! I love what I do. When you put others first, good things happen, and I love helping getting clients what they want. That alone drives me. We’re going on several years now of the Hamptons being as hot as the sun when it comes to luxury sales? Do you see that letting up? Social Life
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65 Dune Road, East Quogue
65 Dune Road, East Quogue. Private beach.
No, I honestly do not. However, any market is subject to realigning itself to market shifts at various times, which is why real estate is so exciting. But the Hamptons market is unique in many ways and offers much whether you are investing, relocating full time, or enjoying a house for the summer. It’s always a great investment in the long run.
What do you do when you’re not selling properties? I’m usually selling so that question really does not work for me! However, the rare moments I’m not engaged in real estate, I’m usually on the water or spending private time with my family.
What do you really see trending this year? I think we are seeing moderns coming to market more than ever before, and they are becoming more popular with buyers. We are also noticing they don’t all have to be on the water. Many buyers are looking for something different from the traditional cedar-shake home they expect to see in the Hamptons. Also, for a lot of people, less is becoming more. What’s the most impressive property you have on the market this year? 65 Dune Road in East Quogue is the ultimate beach house and absolutely the best oceanfront deal anywhere in the Hamptons. It is a four-level, new construction, award-winning modern built on the most pristine white sandy beach in the area. What’s your philosophy on a winning client–agent relationship? Listening to your clients’ needs and putting them first. Always! There are dozens of agencies you could work with. What makes Nest Seekers your No. 1? Cutting-edge technology. This company gives me all the tools I need to deliver the most incredible results to my clients at any time. In addition is the education that is always at my fingertips. I am blessed to work with such great people who are always making sure we’re always on top of the ever-changing market trends and keeping ahead of the curve, which is critically important in real estate. That commitment alone and their loyalty to my clients’ success are huge to me. SocialLifeMagazine.com
What, in your opinion, is the best kept secret in the Hamptons? That we are open year-round. Actually, we have many bestkept secrets, like how warm our waters are in September after Labor Day. It’s still a great time to hit the beaches, and so much to do out here it’s incredible. Our seasons are a lot more than just Memorial Day to Labor Day. Tell us more about 65 Dune. In one word, breathtaking. Surrounded by unparalleled panoramic sunrise and sunset views. It is rare in the Hamptons to have a property that captures both. But this newly constructed modern masterpiece soars high above the dunes and captures the ocean sunrise and the bay sunset. It has won multiple architectural awards for design concept and outstanding achievement. It’s impressive at every turn with a floor-to-ceiling glass design and a theme that merges seamlessly with its surroundings. I love the luxurious outdoor pavilions, which include a heated saltwater infinity-edge pool and spa that are elevated 28 feet above the dunes, an expansive sundeck, and multiple outdoor chef ’s kitchens. Inside, over-sized Miele and Thermador appliances, a butler’s pantry, and a vigilant custom wine cellar are just a start. Eight over-sized and well-appointed en suite bedrooms, a private glass-enclosed media-room, a fitness center, a two-car garage, and access to the most pristine white sandy beach found anywhere in the Hamptons make this property unbeatable. Robert Canberg robertc@nestseekers.com 631.816.0998
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MARK BARON & JANE BABCOOK THE WIN-WIN OF A WINNING COLLABORATION By Anthony Michael
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f there’s one word that doesn’t always come to mind when pondering the high-stakes world of real estate, it’s teamwork. Just browse this or any other magazine on the East End: what you see is page after page of brokers and agents, showcasing “exclusive” listings of some of the most beautiful homes on Earth. The upside is that there is never a shortage of impressive inventory to choose from. The downside, of course, is the unenviable task of choosing that one agent who will listen, always act in your best interest, and, more than anything else, bring an unmatched expertise to the A-Z process of buying or selling. In keeping with the impossibly high standards of Brown Harris Stevens, an Exclusive Affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate, Mark Baron and Jane Babcook offer a different approach. “The type of concierge service our customers demand and deserve is above and beyond the conventional agent/client relationship that clients have too often become used to,” says
Mark Baron, a local real estate legend with more than a decade under his belt and who achieved the designation of Christie’s International Real Estate Luxury Specialist in both 2015 and 2016 — an exclusive club reserved for only the most accomplished. “We find that the more knowledge you bring to the experience, the more successful the transaction will be,” says Baron. Babcook, who has earned top agent awards in her nearly two decades in Hamptons real estate, couldn’t agree more. “The trick for me was finding the right partner,” says Babcook. “And, while Mark and I benefit from complementary proficiencies and diverse experiences, we have different approaches. Mark is very excited about the synergy being created with our partnership. I am a member of the Architectural Review Board in North Haven, the Sag Harbor Yacht Club, the Breakwater Yacht Club and am integrally involved in those communities. My proven track record in new construction, combined with Mark’s extensive business experience South of the Highway, proves on either end of the spectrum, the real winners are our clients.” It’s a philosophy that is aligned with Brown Harris Stevens, the quintessential luxury residential real estate firm, with a history of leadership and a culture of professionalism and discretion dating back to 1873. “I guess you could say we take the culture espoused by Brown Harris Stevens, and ramp it up a notch with our unique approach to serving clients,” says Baron, who is firmly guided by the principle that the welfare of clients outweighs any advantage that might be gained from the relationship.
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That said, the synergistic relationship between him and Babcook is a force of nature. Take Babcook’s pedigree. A “Multi-million Dollar Club” member at the Corcoran Group until joining Brown Harris Stevens in 2015, she is now one of the top producers in the very competitive Brown Harris Stevens Bridgehampton office. Her gumption is a prime example of the apple not falling far from the tree. Jane’s father taught her that strength, independence, and hard work are the key elements to success. She put those principles to work at an early age with a passion for horses. She first worked under Olympic and World Cup riders, managing on-the-road duties for sometimes up to 25 horses, both nationally and internationally. “I believe that the attention to detail, and the calm, yet hard work ethic that is so characteristic of the horse industry was great training for the demands of a successful real estate career,” says Babcook. After becoming a mom in the ’90s, she migrated from the world of equestrianism (where she remains active today more on the philanthropic side) to a career in real estate. “The Hampton Classic Horse Show is an opportunity in June each year for me, and Brown Harris Stevens, to give back to special guests and the dedicated volunteers at Pal-OMine Equestrian Therapeutic Riding Center, whom we invite for a day under the tent to watch the finest in show jumping,” says Babcook. Also an avid chef and boater, her love of the water is the perfect downtime to explore the scenic beauty of the area, whether it’s fishing, sailing, digging for clams, or paddle boarding. “I have a philosophy in life to treat customers like I would my friends: do what you can to make it a successful, enriching experience,” says Babcook. “The rest should take care of itself.” That just might be the lynchpin that makes Babcook and Baron so dynamic together. Baron, too, has a love of the aquatic, claiming that the Caribbean is second only to the Hamptons: his favorite pastime in the off-season is cruising throughout the Caribbean, where he derives inspiration from some of his favorite luxury getaways like St. Barths and St. John. Nonetheless, his heart stays close to home. “The Hamptons offers the best of everything I love most. The unspoiled landscapes and vistas are incomparable, and my wife, Susan, and I enjoy sailing out of Sag Harbor to Mashomack Nature Preserve and hiking the Walking Dunes in Amagansett,” says Baron. “The farm fields and vineyards are also a huge part of the geography and aesthetic that appeal to me.” It’s hard to believe that Baron has any free time at all. “I generally don’t take days off in the Hamptons. I’m just too busy,” he says. “I make up for it when I’m on my boat in St. John. But when time allows, my recreation on the East End is spent sailing, doing yoga, hiking, and eating great food!” SocialLifeMagazine.com
Mark and Jane at Christie’s IRE Convention 2016. Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
And, of course, cultivating his clients with his new partner in the business of getting people into the home of their dreams. Being intricately involved in over $1 billion in residential sales and rentals, Baron’s keen negotiating skills, vast experience, and complete discretion have allowed him to represent some of the Hamptons most renowned properties and high net-worth clientele, and to provide them with the invaluable service of bringing together the right home and the right buyer or tenant and then expertly guiding them through the complexities of Hamptons real estate transactions. And, for Baron, that is now all done better together.
Mark J. Baron Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker mbaron@bhshamptons.com 631.537.4333 c/ 631.800.1125 Jane Babcook Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker jbabcook@bhshamptons.com 631.537.4346 c/ 631.680.1001
NEWLY RENOVATED • BRIDGEHAMPTON VILLAGE $2,675,000 l 0.65± Acres l 3,500± sf l 4 Bedrooms l 3.5 Baths l Saltwater Pool l Desirable Ludlow Green Association l WEB# 27254
JUST LISTED IN SAG HARBOR VILLAGE $2,995,000 l 0.50± Acre l 4,400± sf l 6 Bedrooms l 6.5 Baths l Elegant Design Inside & Out l Heated Gunite Pool l WEB# 36574
Jane Babcook Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker jbabcook@bhshamptons.com 631.537.4346 l direct
BROWN HARRIS STEVENS.COM THE HAMPTONS • NEW YORK CITY • PALM BEACH • MIAMI
All information is from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, prior sale or withdrawal without notice. All rights to content, photographs and graphics reserved to broker. Equal Housing Opportunity Broker. Brown Harris Stevens of the Hamptons, LLC. 2408 Main Street • P.O. Box 683 • Bridgehampton, NY 11932 • 631.537.2727
THE NEW STANDARD OF LUXURY IN SAG HARBOR VILLAGE
43SuffolkStreet.com
$10,900,000 l Car Lift to Lower Level Glass Showroom l Grand and Gracious Scale l 5 Bedrooms l 5.5 Baths l 7,000+ sf l Pool l WEB# 51666
SOPHISTICATED MODERN PERFECTION IN AMAGANSETT 15GreentreeCourt.com $9,950,000 l 6,500± sf l 5 Bedrooms l 5.5 Baths l Smart Home Technology l 58 ft Infinity Edge Pool l 2.00± Acres l WEB# 13202
Mark J. Baron Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker mbaron@bhshamptons.com 631.537.4333 l direct
BROWN HARRIS STEVENS.COM THE HAMPTONS • NEW YORK CITY • PALM BEACH • MIAMI
All information is from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, prior sale or withdrawal without notice. All rights to content, photographs and graphics reserved to broker. Equal Housing Opportunity Broker. Brown Harris Stevens of the Hamptons, LLC. 2408 Main Street • P.O. Box 683 • Bridgehampton, NY 11932 • 631.537.27
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FRANK & DAWN BODENCHAK THE POWER OF TWO, AN INTERVIEW WITH FRANK BODENCHAK By Kari Elesso The two of you are a dynamic duo in Hamptons real estate. How did you wind up working together? My wife, Dawn, is as passionate about design as I am about architecture. That’s what drove us to real estate. And we both come from the financial service industry and have more than 20 years of investment experience. It’s a natural fit to work together. Plus, we back up each other one hundred percent of the time, the way no other team that doesn’t live together can! Does this give you an edge? Dawn and I connect well with other husbands and wives, who are a majority of non-developer buyers and sellers. Each of our clients basically gets two senior brokers in one team, sometimes with different perspectives. What brought you to the Hamptons? As a New York City hedge fund manager, I had invested in over 25 pre-construction buildings in the early 2000s. After a 50 percent price increase in New York City real estate in 2005 to 2007, and something of a herd buying mentality, rental returns had fallen to three percent, not unlike the past two years in the city. We sold out of 20 of our projects in 2007 and 2008, and invested in the Hamptons. There was ample land in 2009 and 2010. Pricing was cheap. Our first project, which was chosen to be the 2010 Hampton Designer Showcase, yielded a 110 percent investment return. The Hamptons offers more opportunity for value creation.
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rank and Dawn Bodenchak are a real estate power team. Having advised or partaken in over $350 million in deals, they pride themselves on adding exceptional value — whether it be with the most experienced developer or a first-time home owner. Frank and Dawn were highly successful individuals on Wall Street before moving into real estate 15 years ago. Frank was one of the youngest managing directors ever at Morgan Stanley. Dawn thrived in sales and investment banking for 14 years. Together, they have built a highly custom franchise with a full-service approach for their clients. Even in 2016, a weaker market, they were involved in 20 transactions, and sold almost every single listing from the beginning of the year.
How did you get into the brokerage side? In the Hamptons, where real estate is so differentiated, we found many of our former colleagues coming to us for help. Dawn and I add unique value by providing a deeper knowledge of properties, construction, design, investment, and real estate law. We found a niche among clients who appreciate our expertise. What type of clientele do you serve? The whole gamut. We have had first-time buyers and just as many sophisticated $5- to $20-million buyers who want our knowledgeable opinions about construction quality, design value, and investment potential. Our clients have included a number of developers who have sold multiple properties as Social Life
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well as first-time investors. And we have a referral base from clients whose houses we have sold quickly, in a market that is not always liquid. Has your collective Wall Street background helped you? It’s a highly analytical and numbers-oriented background, which helps maximize our clients’ goals in what can be an emotional process. And our Wall Street background was also focused on marketing, with its obvious benefits in selling properties. And it doesn’t hurt our practice that many of our Wall Street and hedge fund buyers are colleagues from our former life. We share the same background and no-nonsense approach. What do you love most about your job? Each transaction is different from the last. And the architecture . . . I guess that is what has us hooked. Favorite architectural design? Villa Maria. It has to be one of the most gorgeous landmarks on the East End. And it’s one of the most special waterfront properties in the Hamptons, sprawling 15 waterfront acres. Do you think the real estate market out East will stay strong? Yes. There is a new crop of buyers every year — buyers starting families, second home buyers, newly successful individuals, SocialLifeMagazine.com
celebrities, even internationals. Yet there isn’t the same movement out of the Hamptons. This points to increasing prices. The expression “They aren’t making more land” is more relevant here than anywhere else. The availability of developable land was dramatically reduced over the past five years, and will diminish further. Are you involved in the community in ways besides real estate? We just sold our fourth Hampton Designer Showhouse, raising nearly $1 million over the past seven years for the Southampton Hospital. It takes us a year to recover after each one, but we will no doubt be back for more. I am also a supporter of the Bridgehampton Child Care and Recreation Center, and Dawn is a supporter of the Children’s Museum. The Hamptons is our home. Frank Bodenchak Licensed Salesperson sothebyshomes.com/hamptons/agents/frank.bodenchak frank.bodenchak@sothebyshomes.com 917.968.9020 Dawn Bodenchak Licensed Salesperson sothebyshomes.com/hamptons/agents/dawn.bodenchak dawn.bodenchak@sothebyshomes.com 646.382.4055
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HAMPTONS POWER BROKER CHRISTOPHER COVERT ‘HOMES’ IN ON THE BEST REAL ESTATE OUT EAST By Cecilia Boon
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hris Covert brings to his real estate endeavors a solid foundation in design and construction, and a long interest in architecture, which allows him to connect with his clients’ aesthetic values and to zero in when working to find the perfect new home. Through constant data analysis, Chris has developed a strong skill in identifying the right investment opportunities, from raw land for new construction to existing homes ripe for improvement. His com-
prehensive knowledge of town and village codes and regulations, coupled with his ongoing study of market trends at both micro and macro levels, enable him to provide the most detailed analysis. Representing both buyers and sellers, Chris handles sales and listings at all price points of the market from Southampton to Montauk, and every hamlet in between. He is based in Saunders & Associates’ Bridgehampton office. Some of his exquisite listings are below.
78 Noyack Bay Avenue, Sag Harbor, is a fantastic modern waterfront home sited on a private 1.4 acres and featuring some of the best sunsets in the Hamptons, with access to a private marina and beach club. Listed at $11,750,000.
37 Noyack Bay Avenue, Sag Harbor, is a classic traditional home set on the area’s highest point, with 200 feet of bulkheaded waterfront, waterside pool, private beach, and upper-level views to Connecticut, with access to a private marina and beach club. Listed at $11,975,000.
66 Cobb Lane, Water Mill, is a modern waterfront home south of the highway. It’s set on one gated-acre and features a separate guest cottage, waterside pool, and dock. Listed for $9,695,000. Christopher Covert Licensed Real Estate Salesperson christopheracovert.com ccovert@saunders.com 917.834.0635 Social Life
MODERN HAMPTONS BAYFRONT BEAUTY | BRIDGEHAMPTON SOUTH | $21,000,000 Between the ocean and Mecox Bay, this home spans 5,100 sf and sits on nearly 2.4 acres of some of the most sought-after property in the Hamptons. 1,800 sf deck including a roof deck. Private walkway to the beach with dock. Web# H22476
10,700 SF OF HAMPTONS OCEANFRONT LUXURY | QUOGUE | $17,995,000 Magnificent estate on nearly 3 acres. 9-bedroom, 9-bath beach house completely renovated in 2015. The panoramic views are enjoyed throughout the second floor. Heated Gunite pool/hot tub. Lauren Spiegel O: 631.898.2205 | Web# H50354
ERICA GROSSMAN
Lic. R.E. Salesperson
Office: 631.204.2723 Cell: 917.710.2512 erica.grossman@elliman.com
elliman.com
2488 MAIN ST, P.O. BOX 1251, BRIDGEHAMPTON, NY 11932. 631.537.5900 | © 2017 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. ALL MATERIAL PRESENTED HEREIN IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY. WHILE, THIS INFORMATION IS BELIEVED TO BE CORRECT, IT IS REPRESENTED SUBJECT TO ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGES OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL PROPERTY INFORMATION, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO SQUARE FOOTAGE, ROOM COUNT, NUMBER OF BEDROOMS AND THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IN PROPERTY LISTINGS SHOULD BE VERIFIED BY YOUR OWN ATTORNEY, ARCHITECT OR ZONING EXPERT. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY.
STYLISH SOUTHAMPTON ESTATE SECTION — CLOSE TO THE OCEAN | $9,400,000 This designer-owned home features entry gallery, living room with fireplace, formal dining room, year-round sunroom, state-ofthe-art kitchen, 8 bedrooms which includes the ground floor master suite, 7 baths, and a sunken tennis court. Web# H13569
BLISSFUL WAINSCOTT SOUTH ON THE POND | $7,995,000 Create your own oasis on 5+ acres of coveted land south of the highway in the heart of Wainscott. This bucolic property overlooks a 7-acre preserve and pond allowing for serene privacy. Lori MacGarva O: 631.267.7374 | Web# H26587
ERICA GROSSMAN
Lic. R.E. Salesperson
Office: 631.204.2723 Cell: 917.710.2512 erica.grossman@elliman.com
elliman.com
2488 MAIN ST, P.O. BOX 1251, BRIDGEHAMPTON, NY 11932. 631.537.5900 | © 2017 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. ALL MATERIAL PRESENTED HEREIN IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY. WHILE, THIS INFORMATION IS BELIEVED TO BE CORRECT, IT IS REPRESENTED SUBJECT TO ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGES OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL PROPERTY INFORMATION, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO SQUARE FOOTAGE, ROOM COUNT, NUMBER OF BEDROOMS AND THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IN PROPERTY LISTINGS SHOULD BE VERIFIED BY YOUR OWN ATTORNEY, ARCHITECT OR ZONING EXPERT. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY.
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ERICA GROSSMAN A WINNING APPROACH By Kenneth Reyeker
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here are a few things that people always dread shopping for. And, if you’re in the market for a house, it’s not the home that causes the most angst, it’s usually the process of finding just the right person to help you seal the deal. Erica Grossman knows this, and, thankfully, she takes a different tact from that of your typical broker. “I approach each deal doing what’s right and best for the client, which doesn’t always correlate into the highest priced unit. In fact, it doesn’t more often than you’d think,” says Erica. “I try to help my customers get the best buy, the most value in quantity and quality. Inversely, on the sell side, I advise my clients on optimal pricing to meet their respective goals, both from a pricing and timing perspective.” In her 13-year career specializing in the Hamptons, consistently as a part of the famed Douglas Elliman team, she has seen and sold some of the best the Hamptons has to offer, and her unique approach has been sought out by would-be clients from all over the world. Why? They want the level of knowledge, expertise, focus, honesty and determination that she offers. You guessed it: she’s busy. “I approach each client, deal, and transaction, patiently and the Hamptons, finishing number two at Douglas Elliman in systematically to understand a client’s objectives. I work hard, the Hamptons in 2014 and 2016. She is often winning awards putting in long hours, at all times and every day if needed, to for most referrals, which is something she prides herself on, achieve the goals of the client,” she says. providing assistance to a wide range of clients and brokers, in “I assist my clients, many of whom are now friends, with rentall facets of the spectrum. One of the things that keeps her als they need for the season or with renting their homes — to going is working for Howard Lorber, the chairman of Douglas generate cash flow. From sales of $1 million to over $30 million, Elliman, and Dottie Herman, its CEO. “They are like working to rentals as low as $10,000, nothing is out of the question.” with family,” she says. In addition to acting as an agent, Erica “More than anything else, I value the assists clients in assembling the right “I try to help my customers get connections with my clients, and their team, including due diligence specialists, the best buy, the most value in loyalty,” says Erica. “Buyers and sellers lawyers, title agents, designers, architects, remind me that they want honesty and inbuilders, and house managers. “This lev- quantity and quality. Inversely, tegrity throughout the process, and I asel of service, fortunately, has been well on the sell side, I advise my cli- pire to conduct my business to maintain received by my clients and has generated and achieve these important standards ents on optimal pricing to meet repeat clients and referrals,” says Erica, through all spheres of the search, the newho is one of Douglas Elliman’s win- their respective goals, both from gotiation, the deal, and the closing.” ningest producers. “I like to think that In her downtime, Erica loves spendit’s a testament to my work, my focus, a pricing and timing perspective.” ing time with her fiancé, John. and my dedication.” A leader in gross sales in the Hamptons for Douglas Erica Grossman Elliman between 2006 and 2016, Erica is a top-tier broker Licensed Real Estate Salesperson among all income producers on the East End. In 2013 and erica.grossman@elliman.com 2015 she was rated the number one Douglas Elliman agent in 917.710.2512 Social Life
John P. Vitello Licensed Real Estate Salesperson
631.204.2407 direct 516.315.6867 mobile jvitello@bhshamptons.com Recognized by the Wall Street Journal / REAL Trends as the #11 top agent in the Hamptons and ranked #165 in the nation* in 2016 (out of 1.1 million licensed residential agents), John Vitello has successfully completed over 400 real estate transactions on the East End. His experience and track record of success for his demanding and exclusive clientele is as impressive as it is consistent. John combines an expert working knowledge of the local marketplace with a creative, passionate and relentless approach to achieving success for his clients.
NEW CONSTRUCTION • SOUTHAMPTON $4,795,000 l 1.84± Acres l 9,250± sf Including Finished Lower Level 6 Bedrooms l 7.5 Baths l Heated Pool l WEB# 10338
MECOX BAY VIEWS • WATER MILL SOUTH
SOUTHAMPTON BAYFRONT
SOUTHAMPTON BAYFRONT COMPOUND
$2,895,000 l 2,800± sf l 4 Bedrooms l 4 Baths Pool l WEB# 33296
$4,350,000 l 1.4± Acres l 100’ Frontage l Arts & Crafts Style Home l 6 Bedrooms l WEB# 32838
$3,250,000 l North Sea Beach Colony l 4 Bedroom Main House l 2 Bedroom Guest House l WEB# 48086
END UNIT CONDO • SOUTHAMPTON VILLAGE LAND BORDERING RESERVE • WATER MILL SOUTH NEW IN SOUTHAMPTON VILLAGE $1,495,000 l 2,600± sf l Stylishly Renovated l 3 Bedrooms l 3.5 Baths l Community Pool l WEB# 41094
$2,975,000 l Zoned R40 l 1.18± Acres l Room for Estate $2,495,000 l Greg McKenzie Design l 4 Bedrooms Sized Home, Pool + Tennis l WEB# 3374 4.5 Baths l Heated Saltwater Pool l WEB# 17535
All information is from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, prior sale or withdrawal without notice. Equal Housing Opportunity Broker. * Top Individual Agents by Sales Volume based on closed transactions. Brown Harris Stevens of the Hamptons, LLC. 24 Main Street Southampton, NY 11968 • 631.287.4900
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70 MATTHEWS LANE GETTING REGAL, HAMPTONS STYLE By Killian Crowe
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ary DePersia has been a fixture of East End real estate since 1995. A member of a rare and influential “club,” he has participated in over $2 billion in transactions, a number that makes him chuckle since he didn’t sell his first house until almost a year and a half into his career. As we roar into the 2017 selling season, he is bringing pure luxury to the market. One example? 70 Matthews Lane.
abundance of natural light. The state-of-the-art eat-in kitchen, with a 10-seat breakfast area, is also warmed by its own fireplace. Additional common space includes a media room and an intimate living room. The first floor master wing with a sitting area, a fireplace, and a luxurious bath is joined upstairs by four guest suites, including a second master with a roof terrace. The bedrooms are purposefully positioned so that none share common walls (read: 70 MATTHEWS LANE, BRIDGEHAMPTON extreme privacy). “With my sale of Mecox Farm recently, James Michael An elevator connects all floors to the lower level with two Howard has only two completed, fully furnished estates left on more bedroom suites, a state-of-the-art theater with plush the market. This one just completed on Matthews Lane is cer16-person seating, a bar, and a large recreation room with a tainly among my favorites There are so many words to describe fireplace and a custom billiards table. this manse, but the most appropriate is ‘regal,’ ” says Gary Geo-thermal heating, Control4 technology, Lutron lightDePersia, the co-exclusive listing broker for this singular estate. ing, and a full audio/visual package add to the property’s list Informed by an aesthetic that recalls past centuries, while of amenities. celebrating the best of what’s new, Matthews Lane joins the Behind stone walls, the property has lush grounds, includgrowing repertoire of highly-styled, fully-furnished Hamptons ing mature specimen trees, espaliered apple trees, and a verdant estates by James Michael Howard, the renowned 2017 ICAA manicured lawn. A heated pool and a spa are serviced by a covaward-winning designer. He and his celebrated work exemplify ered cabana area that incorporates a pool house with a full bath coherency in the abstract world of architec- “There are so many words to and dressing room, an outdoor fireplace, ture and interiors, and the landscape that and a built-in kitchen that connects over a describe this manse, but the broad stone patio to the two-car garage. contain them. Matthews Lane is a collaboration between most appropriate is ‘regal’” Turnkey to the extreme, Matthews Lane James Michael Howard, McAlpine-Tankerlies midway between the village and ocean sley Architecture, and Landscape Details. The soaring sevenbeaches off Bridgehampton’s iconic Ocean Road and close bedroom residence extends 11,600 square feet on three expanto everything that makes the Hamptons a world-class resort. sive levels of fully articulated living space. Call for your personal tour today. The head-swiveling journey begins as you pass through the reception hall toward the dramatic great room. Under 30-foot Gary DePersia beamed ceilings, the room incorporates multiple seating areas, Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker a dining room and gallery, and a focal-point custom fireplace gdp@corcoran.com that anchors the room, while walls of windows allow for an 631.899.0215 c/ 516.380.0538 Social Life
Tracey and Bonita have both traveled many places in the world, but are happy to call the Hamptons home. With over 40 years combined experience in real estate, let them help find the place you’ll make memories that last a lifetime. Experienced in all aspects of buying, selling and renting properties both residential and commercial.
TRACEY D. HOLMES
LIC. RE SALESPERSON
m: 631.461.7238 | tracey.holmes@corcoran.com
BONITA F. DEWOLF
LIC. ASSOCIATE RE BROKER
m: 516.982.0946 | bonita.dewolf@corcoran.com
Real estate agents affiliated with The Corcoran Group are independent contractor and are not employees of The Corcoran Group. Equal Housing Opportunity. The Corcoran Group is a licensed real estate broker. All information furnished regarding property for sale or rent or regarding financing is from sources deemed reliable, but Corcoran makes no warranty or representation as to the accuracy thereof. All property information is presented subject to errors, omissions, price changes, changed property conditions, and withdrawal of the property from the market, without notice. All dimensions provided are approximate. To obtain exact dimensions, Corcoran advises you to hire a qualified architect or engineer. 51 Main Street, East Hampton, NY 11937 | 631.324.3900
FOR SALE IN SOUTHAMPTON VILLAGE ! FOR Susan SALE ! L. FallonIN SOUTHAMPTON VILLAGE Alexis Radziul
Licensed R.E. Broker C: 631-223-5526 szfallongmail.com Susan L.e)Fallon Licensed R.E. Broker C: 631-223-5526 e) szfallongmail.com
Licensed R.E. Agent c) 516-779-9667 e)Alexis hamptonshabitats@gmail.com Radziul Licensed R.E. Agent c) 516-779-9667 e) hamptonshabitats@gmail.com
Classic Village home, 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, chic reno, new kitchen w cherry wood cabinetry, high-end appliances, walk-in pantry/laundry, master suite with Classic Village home, 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, chic reno, his/hers custom walk-in closets, 2 guest bedrooms new kitchen w cherry wood cabinetry, high-end share en suite full bath, 1ST floor guest room/bath, appliances, walk-in pantry/laundry, master suite with large patio, heated gunite pool and outdoor shower. his/hers custom walk-in closets, 2 guest bedrooms $1,975,000 - 30 Wooley St. share en suite full bath, 1ST floor guest room/bath, large patio, heated gunite pool and outdoor shower. $1,975,000 - 30 Wooley St.
New luxury construction, 5 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, master suite with balcony, brick fireplace, great room, gourmet kitchen, full finished basement, New luxury construction, 5 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, custom floors, French doors, bluestone patio, master suite with balcony, brick fireplace, great covered porch, heated gunite pool with pool house, room, gourmet kitchen, full finished basement, detached 2-car garage. $4,250,000 - 81 Wooley St. custom floors, French doors, bluestone patio, covered porch, heated gunite pool with pool house, detached 2-car garage. $4,250,000 - 81 Wooley St.
Traditional Hamptons style home with cedar shingle façade, 5,000sq.ft., 5 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, 2 mason fireplaces, modern chic kitchen, inground gunite pool, Traditional Hamptons style home with cedar shingle fully finished lower level will accommodate your media façade, 5,000sq.ft., 5 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, 2 mason room, gym and/or wine cove. $4,995,000 - 54 Lee Ave. fireplaces, modern chic kitchen, inground gunite pool, fully finished lower level will accommodate your media room, gym and/or wine cove. $4,995,000 - 54 Lee Ave.
Quintessential Village home replete with open airy interiors & architectural/structural integrity. 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 5,000 sq.ft. Dutch Quintessential Village home replete with open colonial., beautiful hardscaping surrounds a deep airy interiors & architectural/structural integrity. heated gunite pool in a private shaded 0.35acres. 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 5,000 sq.ft. Dutch $5,495,000.104 Lewis St. colonial., beautiful hardscaping surrounds a deep heated gunite pool in a private shaded 0.35acres. $5,495,000.104 Lewis St.
HAMPTONS HABITATS REALTY CORP 4 N. MAIN ST, SOUTHAMPTON ● 631-283-0185 HAMPTONS HABITATS REALTY CORP
4 N. MAIN ST, SOUTHAMPTON ● 631-283-0185
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GEORGICA BUILDERS LTD. QUALITY, LUXURY, AND AFFORDABILITY By Jacob Puck
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eorgica Builders is owned by Michael White, who has been building new luxury homes from Montauk to Manhattan for over 30 years. For the past 15 years, Michael has focused on the Southampton area, where he also lives and maintains his wellstaffed office. Over the years, Michael has established an extensive network of professionals, including architects and other design professionals, who can design and execute any project from conception to completion. Georgica Builders has recently completed two luxury homes in Southampton: 104 Lewis Street and 54 Lee Avenue. A third is under construction at 35 Woodthrush Lane, Water Mill. All are now being marketed by Hamptons Habitats Realty, 4 N. Main Street, Southampton. Each home built by Georgica Builders is carefully designed and built to the highest standards. Georgica Builders often completes its projects at less cost and in less time than do other builders of highend homes, and can offer them at attractive prices. This is because Michael owns a demolition and excavation company, Hampton Site Worx Corp., with its own heavy equipment, and he has longstanding relationships with expert subcontractors in the area. The newest Georgica Builders project, now on the drawing board with preliminary approvals in place, consists of building three traditional cedar-shake homes, on adjoining lots bounded by traditional white picket fencing, along N. Main Street, Southampton. As a resident of Southampton, Michael has long envisioned cleaning
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up and improving this gateway to Southampton and has waited several years for the right opportunity, which recently presented itself when he was able to acquire over three acres along N. Main Street and subdivide the property into three lots. Michael sees this as only the first step toward restoring some of the lost historic beauty of this quaint village and is hopeful that, once this project is completed, similar opportunities will present themselves. He also hopes that his beautiful homes will spur existing homeowners along N. Main Street to restore their homes to their former grandness. “North Main Street is the point of first impression for most visitors to the Village of Southampton and should reflect the beauty and historic nature of our community, and, if possible, even enhance it. My homes will incorporate many of the aesthetics of historic homes that make our community so quaint and will hopefully create a lasting, positive impression for visitors to our village, not to mention attract and encourage young professionals to settle here with their families,” says Michael. One can readily sense Michael’s passion and excitement about this project when speaking with him. For more information on any of Georgica Builders’ properties, one should contact Suzy Fallon, the principal of Hamptons Habitats Realty Corp., at 631.283.0185. If you have a project planned in the Southampton area, you can reach Michael at 631.283.7770 and he will gladly review your project with you at no cost. georgicabuilders.com
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HAMPTONS HABITATS REALTY A MARKET DIFFERENTIATOR By Clancy O'Toole
“Hamptons Habitats Realty utilizes cuttingedge technology and old-fashioned experience to get behind you and your property so it will be seen by the greatest number of prospects in the shortest timeframe.”
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f the Hamptons real estate market is indeed magic, then a new dream-weaver is in town. Hamptons Habitats Realty, which offers one-on-one concierge-level services to its clients, is setting out to make dreams come true. A collaboration between long-time real estate legend Susan Fallon, and Georgica Builders’ president and CEO, Michael White, the new kid on the block is offering something a little different. “Selling real estate is a process different from merely listing properties,” says Fallon. “Hamptons Habitats Realty utilizes cutting-edge technology and old-fashioned experience to get behind you and your property so it will be seen by the greatest number of prospects in the shortest timeframe. We guarantee that our clients will be pleased with our consistent results.” Located at 4 North Main Street in Southampton, this new business is indeed different, and that’s largely due to the collaboration of its owners and the can-do spirit of Fallon, the principal owner and broker. “The timing was truly opportune for me, and we’ve been doing really well in just the past few months that we’ve been in the business,” says Fallon. “We love educating buyers about the Hamptons — its various neighborhoods, schooling, shopping, and local professionals — as we tour the area with our clients to help them find their dream home. What sets us apart is that we offer more personalized service and greater flexibility. If there is any way to make a deal happen, we will find that way.” Fallon says that her goal is to provide accurate, current data to her real estate clients in order to establish the highest possible market price for their residential and commercial properties. “I’m well versed in digital and print marketing strategies for the resale market as well as asset disposition, and I have an extensive knowledge of new construction luxury properties,” she says. “But what really sets me apart is that I’m not afraid to get my hands dirty. I’ll pitch in wherever and do whatever it takes to sell a property.” She’s not kidding — in fact, there have been instances when
Susan Fallon
a showing came up last minute and she did a client’s laundry, gardening, or other task to ensure that the property was immaculate. On a larger scale, she will work with every client to ensure maximum marketability of their home, often arranging to have work performed at discounted rates. “It’s a personal touch, an authenticity, and a dose of reality that sets us apart,” says Fallon. “We won’t be pigeonholed by trying to be the company with the largest manses on the beach, or put on airs with a laundry list of awards and accolades,” she says. “We will be dedicated to making our clients happy, one at a time, and we’ll do it with honesty and an approach that will keep people coming back.” What does that mean? Better communication, better hours, reduced commissions, expert advertising, and social media, and national as well as international targeting. Fallon says, at the end of the day, “It’s just who we are, and we are definitely different!” hamptonshabitats.com 631.283.0185
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Presented by the Corcoran Group, Carolyn Kendall, 516.729.8136
C U STO M D E S I GN H O M E B UI L DER S IN TH E H A M P T O NS S I NCE 1991
YO U R DREAM HOM E AWAIT S ! 625 HAMPTON ROAD SOUTHAMPTON NY, 11968 GEORGICABUILDERS.COM GEORGICABUILDERS@GMAIL.COM 631.283.7770
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HOMEAND GARDEN DESIGN By Sarah Parker Young
The Tailored Look in Navy and White For the summer house, blue and white is a classic combination that is always fresh. It is the interior design equivalent of a navy blazer with a white button-down shirt. To incorporate this palette into your home, consider abstract art for the wall and on fabric, accessories in some rich blue tones, rugs or ottomans in striking patterns as well as furniture designs with modern silhouettes. Interior designer Shay Geyer makes a statement with indigo walls. ibbdesign.com
Coast of Indigo Textile by Carol Benson-Cobb for John-Richard $750
John-Richard Églomisé bench with fabric by artist Carol Benson-Cobb $2,238
Dure Bowl in Calacatta Marble, Casted Bronze and Marine Suede by Michaël Verheyden at Monc XIII $2,700 Social Life
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John-Richard Three Blue Glass Vases $507 Serena & Lily Chatham Bench $998 Mecox Gardens Large Square Indigo Ottoman $1,075
42nd Street Designs Mary Lou Dresser $5,325
For information on these products:
Where’s my Chauffeur Rug by Kerrie Kelly for Feizy Rugs (8 x 11) $2,015 SocialLifeMagazine.com
Mecox Gardens Navy Grasscloth Tower Side Table $1,295
Feizy Rugs 230 Fifth Avenue, 2nd Floor, Suite 204-5 214.747.6000
Mecox Gardens 257 County Road 39A, Southampton 866.956.8552
42nd Street Designs 42ndstreetdesign.com 916.400.4360
Monc XIII 40 Madison Street, Sag Harbor 631.808.3333
John-Richard johnrichard.com 662.453.5809
Serena & Lily 332 Montauk Hwy, Wainscott 631.537.5544
Amagansett Estate Midway Between Village & Beach Amagansett. The eastern end of Further Lane defines a part of Amagansett close to ocean beaches, village shopping and gourmet restaurants. And just off this storied street, somewhere in between Jerry, Gwyneth and Sir Paul, a beautifully designed 6 bedroom, 8 bath gabled roofed traditional joins the area elite. With a dramatic new price reduction, this singular offering demands your attention today. Traditional | South of the Highway | 1.5 Acres | 6,000 SF+/- | 6 Bedrooms | 6 Full and 2 Half Bathrooms | Finished Lower Level 20’ X 60’ Heated Gunite Pool with Attached Spa | Pool House Exclusive. $8.495M WEB# 21269
On Top of the World in Water Mill North Water Mill. Ever wonder what it would be like to live in a Farrell built house custom designed for exacting owners? Imagine no more, as 6,500 sq. ft. of the finest finishes, combined with a sensational floor plan, incorporating generous room sizes, is now available sitting high up on 5 private acres for one discerning buyer. The village of Water Mill, Bridgehampton and Southampton are merely a 5 minute drive to the south with their pristine ocean beaches just beyond while red hot Sag Harbor with its marinas, shopping and chic restaurant lies just down the road to the north. All this can be yours when you contact us for your private tour today. Traditional | 4.8 Acres | 9,900 SF+/- on Three Levels | 8 Bedrooms | 9 Full and 2 Half Bathrooms | Finished Lower Level 20’ X 40’ Heated Gunite Saltwater Pool with Attached Spa | 800 SF+/- 2 Story Pool Cabana | All-weather Tennis Court Exclusive. $5.495M WEB# 39955
GARY R. DePERSIA
Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker m:516.380.0538 | gdp@corcoran.com
Real estate agents affiliated with The Corcoran Group are independent contractor sales associates and are not employees of The Corcoran Group. Equal Housing Opportunity. The Corcoran Group is a licensed real estate broker. All information furnished regarding property for sale or rent or regarding financing is from sources deemed reliable, but Corcoran makes no warranty or representation as to the accuracy thereof. All property information is presented subject to errors, omissions, price changes, changed property conditions, and withdrawal of the property from the market, without notice. All dimensions provided are approximate. To obtain exact dimensions, Corcoran advises you to hire a qualified architect or engineer. 51 Main Street, East Hampton NY 11937 | 631.324.3900
M & M Custom Homes In Bridgehampton Horse Country Bridgehampton. Perched wonderfully on an acre, a new, beautifully conceived traditional by M & M Custom Homes offers the ultimate four season Hampton experience in a private setting. Generous room sizes, superlative construction and exquisite finishes find harmony in this 5,000 sq. ft. residence with richly stained oak floors throughout that features on the first floor a great room with fireplace, separate living room, gourmet eat in kitchen with professional appliances and a formal dining room. With 8 bedrooms overall, the ground floor guest master suite could be repurposed as a den, office or even that much coveted pool cabana. Upstairs the master wing with generous sleeping chamber, luxurious bath and a pair of walk in closets is joined by 4 additional bedrooms with baths all ensuite plus a laundry room. More than 2000 SF of finished space in the lower level includes 2 bedroom suites, recreational areas, optional home theatre and gym. Outside the broad stone patios overlook the heated Gunite pool and spa framed by lawn and a complete landscape package. Walk across the street to one of the best farm stands in the Hamptons or bike to nearby Bridgehampton village for breakfast at the Golden Pear or for lunch at Bobby Vans, Pierre’s or Almonds. With red hot Sag Harbor and its chic shops, marinas and numerous restaurants just to the north, you will be in the middle of all the action when you make this new stunning residence your home. Call today for your own private tour.. Exclusive. $3.45M WEB# 51276
Southampton to Montauk...Sagaponack to Shelter Island The Hamptons for Buyers, Sellers, Renters & Investors
GARY R. DePERSIA
Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker m: 516.380.0538 | gdp@corcoran.com
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DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT ERICA BROBERG SMITH By Sarah Parker Young
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rica Broberg Smith is an architect based in East Hampton and Manhattan, who specializes in historic renovations, restorations, and traditional architecture. She works closely with her sister company Smith River Kitchens, a boutique firm specializing in cabinetry and elegant kitchen design solutions for a wide variety of projects, from bare bones economy to oceanfront luxury. With her partner, Scott W. Smith, she recently opened Hampton Gather, East Hampton’s only salvage, consignment, and antique shop offering beautiful treasures sourced from the Hamptons and around the world. We recently caught up with Erica to ask her about her design style and her inspirations as well as her favorite spots in the Hamptons. How would you describe the aesthetic of your architectural projects? I am a traditionalist at heart. I love the order and nostalgia of historical work, which may be the result of growing up in a very modern open-plan house. Separate rooms with varied décor and feel keep me interested, and I love the idea of having different spaces for different interactions and moods. My portfolio is varied because I make an effort to have my clients lead the feel of the house. This is an interesting way to work because each project is different and often the client will wind up with something that they love, but not what they originally envisioned. I have had clients say, “I thought I was much more traditional, but I see that I am actually more modern!” or vice versa. This process of discovery intrigues me, as every project is a new adventure that we embark on as a collaboration.
What are the ways that you connect an interior to a landscape? Since most of our work is in the Hamptons, we make an effort to access the outdoors at all angles. Porches, terraces, decks, trellises, covered porches, balconies, fire pits, meditation gardens, and play areas are all discussed during the initial design phase of the house. I am particularly sensitive to city dwellers arriving in the Hamptons who need the connection to nature for spiritual and emotional health and well-being. How is your approach different when designing a beach house or a city home? Beach houses are not primary residences. We always allow for more circulation space, since there are so many houseguests at the beach. I co-own Smith River Kitchens with my husband, and we widen all kitchen corridors so that multiple people can Social Life
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be eating, pouring coffee, or mulling over the contents of the fridge. No log jams in our kitchens! We also try to give the guest rooms considerable space from the family area. Having space from guests really does make the time together much more enjoyable for everyone. We also try to vary the gathering spaces according to activity. This way a breakfast nook will be bathed in soft morning light and sunset cocktails face west. How do the views, either of water or lawn, affect the design? Views are an integral part of beach-house design. We analyze the site for the best views, sun exposures throughout the day, prevailing breezes, and landscape or water view. This happens before the house is even sketched, as it is so integral to the layout. Nothing makes an architect’s heart beat like a site with an amazing view! Are there any architects from the past who particularly inspire you? My very favorite is Carlo Scarpa [1906–1978] from Venice, Italy. His sculptural details, use of water as a design feature, and integration into the landscape is so emotional for me. Seeing Venice through his work is transformational, even for nonarchitects. I also admire Alfred Scheffer [1894–1976], who worked in the Hamptons in the ’40s to ’60s primarily. His work is so simple yet rich and harkens back to a time when a simple beach house with brick flooring and English woodworking
details was all you needed. A peanut butter and jelly sandwich, a beach towel, a bonfire, and life was beyond good! What are some of your favorite spots in the Hamptons for shopping, eating, or visiting? Well, interesting question! I was so disenchanted with the corporate high-end shopping in East Hampton that I opened my own shop. There simply was not a single store to buy something reasonably priced and unusual for your home. I opened Hampton Gather at 94 Newtown Lane — across from Wittendale’s — which is filled with vintage, salvage, antique, and consignment items. Our primary focus is one-of-a-kind home décor items and, thankfully, the shop has gotten a beyond enthusiastic response from the local year-round community and the weekend crowd. My hope is that HG will become a go-to place for design enthusiasts to have a little fun, discover something cool for their house, and smile. So far so good as we had a profitable winter. This will be our first summer, and we are ready! My favorite restaurant is Nick and Toni’s. We can walk from our house — phew! I also like the new Dopo La Spiaggia in East Hampton. I am gluten-free due to Lyme (as many East Enders are) and I can always find something healthy and fresh at these two spots. Dopo has the best gluten-free pasta! On the weekends, we head to the bay near Shagwong Point to snorkel and swim since it is so quiet and natural. We also take our boat over to Gardiner’s to boogie board the rip off Cartwright. This summer we plan to head to Block Island and sleep on the boat for a couple of nights, weather dependent of course! 25 Cedar Street, East Hampton ericabrobergarchitect.com
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THE ULTIMATE BEACH HOUSE IN THE HAMPTONS | $18,750,000
BRAND NEW HOME ON MARKET | $8,990,000
The ultimate beach house in the Hamptons has arrived! Affording the best of oceanfront living in luxury and commanding a beautiful stretch of white sandy beach this magnificent offering is a paradisiacal haven for those desiring the ultimate oceanfront beach house and lifestyle. Enjoy the 12 foot ceilings found throughout this beachfront residence with glass sliding doors that open to luxurious outdoor pavilions which include your heated saltwater infinity edge pool and spa which sits 28 feet high above the dunes along an expansive sundeck and its outdoors chef’s kitchen’s. Relax Alfresco style from your grand master suite sundeck with its own private wall of glass, it’s gas fireplace, and enjoy the breathtaking oceanfront views. Completing this luxurious oceanfront offering includes 7 additional over-sized and well-appointed ensuite bedrooms, a private glass enclosed media-room, fitness center, a 2 car garage. Web ID 695728
Located in South Watermill close to the village and to Flying Point Beach. This 10,000+ livable sq/ft brand new home has 7 Bedrooms, 9.5 full Bathrooms, 5 wood burning/gas fireplaces, 2 Laundry Rooms, custom built cabinetry, and Geothermal HVAC. Two story Grand Foyer with a 20 ft ceiling and paneled architectural moldings, the first floor contains a Junior Master Suite with a private study or additional den. Kitchen features 14’ ceilings, Wolf & Sub-zero appliances, and a large walk-in pantry. Grand Dining room shares a polished concrete fireplace with a very large open living room. The second floor has a laundry room, 5 bedrooms with personal full bathrooms and walk-in closets, and 10’ tray ceilings except the Master Bedroom that has an 11’ grand ceiling, a personal fireplace, and a his and hers walk-in closet. The finished lower level includes 10’ ceilings, additional den with fireplace, recreation room, media room, guest bedroom, 2 full bathrooms, and access to private yard. The property has a 20x40 heated gunite pool and pool house Cabana which includes a full bathroom, indoor & outdoor shower. WebID 497329
ROBERT CANBERG 631 816 0998 robertc@nestseekers.com
NICHOLAS AMATO 516 680 1759 nicholas@nestseekers.com
BRIDGEHAMPTON SOUTH BY THE OCEAN | $5,400,000
NEW TO THE MARKET IN SOUTHAMPTON VILLAGE | $6,700,000
Nestled perfectly on a private and shy acre corner lot on one of the most desirable and prestigious lanes in Bridgehampton is where you’ll find this rare and unique opportun ity. Offering just over 4000 sq. ft. of living space this traditional Hamptons residence offers ample accommodations for so many to enjoy. Graciously constructed with hardwood floors and fabulous ceiling heights this residence , boasts 5 bedrooms and 4 baths which include a private and sumptuous 1st floor master suite, a spacious chefs k itchen with plenty of natural light which include professional grade stainless steel appliances, formal dining, a nd multiple living room spaces to enjoy and entertain all summer long. Complete with its heated gunite pool and the b eautiful Atlantic Ocean and it’s white sandy beach which can be found just a few doors down of this priced to sell residence, making this a truly unique opportunity in Bridgehampton. WebID 693417
Within close proximity to world renowned ocean beaches and a historic yet vibrant retail center with exciting shops and restaurants makes this location one of the most sought after and desired locations in the Village. Nestled quietly behind mature hedges some of the features of this home includes an Open Floor Plan designed for entertaining. Home includes a welcoming Den, spacious Living Room with Fireplace, Dining Room filled with natural light, Pool House adjacent to the Pool and Jacuzzi. This turn key property with 6 Bedrooms & 5.5 Bathrooms includes a Master Bedroom with Fireplace & Personal Balcony, His & Hers Master Walk-in Closets, Guest En-Suite, and an additional Living Room in the Lower Level for Guests. WebID 715284
NICHOLAS AMATO 516 680 1759 nicholas@nestseekers.com
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FEATURED NEW CONSTRUCTION SOUTHAMPTON VILLAGE | $4,695,000
SPECTACULAR MONTAUK WATERFRONT | $4,250,000
Step in to the light with all the newest building design features by Devito and Company. The double height entrance is flooded with light from all angles, and captures the magnificent outdoor living spaces from the main living areas. With 7 bedrooms 7.5 baths, formal living and dining, open family and modern kitchen leading to extensive patios and the manicured outdoors with gunite pool, spa and fire pit, large pool-house with basement storage, and a one car garage with Tesla charging port. The lower level will have a gym with sauna, media room, wine cellar and 2 additional bedrooms with bathroom. The expansive master suite with vaulted ceilings and gas fireplace, large walk in closet, and master bath with double sinks, floating bath with express ceiling filling feature, large shower with both ceiling and wall jets. There is a junior master suite on the first floor and all bedrooms are ensuite. Web ID 542183
One of the most beautiful waterfront homes on Old West Lake.Pull up to this contemporary home with an open floor plan. Living room combined with a gourmet kitchen. Stairs leading to a master bedroom with a balcony looking out over Old West Lake. In addition to this there is a one bedroom cottage with the living area downstairs and the bedroom upstairs. Down below, on the property there is a studio accessory building, with bath for after you’ve enjoyed your water activities at the private beach. You can spend the day paddle boarding and kayaking. Very close to Ocean, shops and restaurants. WebID 621772
DYLAN ECKARDT 631 353 2845 dylane@nestseekers.com
GEOFF GIFKINS 516 429 6927 geoffg@nestseekers.com
ULTIMATE SERENITY IN EAST HAMPTON NORTHWEST | $1,695,000
ULTIMATE NW HAMPTONS TRADITIONAL | $2,650,000
Postmodern home on private four acres hidden approx. 1500 feet off 114. This private estate is equidistant between Sag Harbor & East Hampton being only 3.5 miles in either direction. One level Post Modern beauty features master bedroom and bath, plus 4 guest bedrooms and four baths, open great room equipped with Sonos surround sound (app controlled music from any smart phone), dining area, den, chef’s kitchen and all amenities. The perfect house or entertaining as the house was designed to absorb echo to prevent sound from carrying over from one room to the next. If you still need an excuse to buy this house, walk out back onto the expansive deck with electronic awning and have your choice of hanging out in the Jacuzzi strategically tucked away in the shade surrounded by trees, go for a swim or get a round of tennis bef ore the day begins. WebI D 697396
This home brags 5100 square feet of Hampton’s excellence. The first floor has almost 3000 sq. ft. consisting of a Gourmet kitchen with Carrara marble, Viking stove and Sub Zero refrigerator. The living room has an expansive cathedral ceiling with fireplace and wainscoting throughout. As you leave the kitchen through the butler’s pantry/wet bar, you’ll find yourself in the Separate den and Dining room with coiffured ceilings. Just beyond the den, a large lower level bedroom with walk in closets and french doors to the gunite pool. Second floor has another 2140 sq. ft consisting of five large bedrooms, 4 with ensuite baths. The layout was so strategically planned to accommodate space for everyone without excluding privacy. As big as it is, there is almost 3000 sq ft of additional space in the basement left unfinished to your imagination whether it be a media room, gym or just a super chic & modern lower level. WebID 687439
JOHN F. BRADY 631 353 3047 john@nestseekers.com WENDY JACKSON 646 443 3735 wendyj@nestseekers.com
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ALEX PICCIRILLO 516 313 1110 alexp@nestseekers.com JOHN F. BRADY 631 353 3047 john@nestseekers.com
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PROPERTIES NEW CONSRUCTION SAGAPONACK VILLAGE | $6,995,000
BUCOLIC WATERFRONT DREAM LOCATED ON PRESTIGIOUS NOSTRAND PKWY | $4,900,000
Ready to start this new 6000 home will have 7 bedroom 8.5 baths set on 2 idyllic acres with pool room for tennis and pool house. Every attention to detail with designer kitchen and bathrooms, formal living and formal dining, open family dining and kitchen. Extensive covered patios with fireplace allow for outdoor dining and overlook the expansive grounds, pool area and evening sunsets. Web ID 561582
This 3/4 acre parcel on Southold Bay comes with 112 feet of private beachfront and features a 1/4 mile long shared private driveway normally found on much larger estates. It sits on a beautiful vista overlooking two bodies of wide open water. This waterfront dream has a natural rise on which to build and is surrounded by pristine nature and magnificent estates. Located on the prestigious Nostrand Parkway and nestled directly on the beach front, nearby iconic Sunset beach. There is a dedicated sea plane access from the city right to your door step of your privately shared dock. Dreamy sunsets with beach & expansive bay views. This level building parcel is bulk headed & elevated above seashore, providing panoramic views of the bay including a deep water dock for all your yachting activities. Extreme Privacy via privately shared road adds an extraordinary level of privacy. It’s a rare opportunity to have your own waterfront dream on the most desirable section of Shelter Island with direct access to open water. Architectural renderings have been prepared by one of the countries top firms showing a 7,000 SF estate with pool. WebID 683275
GEOFF GIFKINS 516 429 6927 geoffg@nestseekers.com
TIMOTHY LOBELLO 310 621 7171 timl@nestseekers.com
THE PERFECT RETREAT- 7 BEDROOMS, POOL-TENNIS COURT ON 1.5 ACRES | $3,100,000
MONTAUK DOWNS VIEW | $2,450,000
Beautifully remodeled in 2004, 7 bedrooms and 5 full baths with huge open spaces including an open dining room, loft, 1st floor Master en-suite/Game Room, lovely kitchen with custom cabinetry, granite counters, 2 dish washers, laundry with outside access. The family room is a large but cozy open space to entertain in, including a delightful loft. Huge 2nd floor Master en-suite with a large “walk-in” closet, 2nd floor family room and 2 more generous sized bedrooms with a full bath. Upon entering the backyard onto mahogany decking, you are amazed at the beautiful mature plantings and landscaping surrounding the 40 foot gunite pool. Plenty of grass to entertain on, wonderful all-weather tennis court and 2 car attached garage, all situated on 1.5 Acres. WebID 582493
Discover this Montauk Classic with sweeping Panoramic Endless Views. The all custom Carl Fisher style traditional borders the coveted Montauk Downs Golf Club and is conveniently located minutes to the most famous ocean beaches in the world and the fabled charm of Montauk Village. The interior features 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, separate studio with full bath, spacious den with field stone fire place, professional grade kitchen, large office space and finished basement both with private entrance. The expanses of glass French doors unifies the exquisite exterior environs with the interior. Providing natural light throughout with continuous open views. To complete this one-of-a kind serene setting is an oversize heated gunite salt-water pool surrounded by multi-level mahogany decking providing sensational expansive views. WebID 699480
MARIKO PICHARDO 917 301 2416 marikop@nestseekers.com
DYLAN ECKARDT 631 353 2845 dylane@nestseekers.com
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FEATURED 50 UNITED NATIONS PLAZA 345 E 46TH ST APT 17B, NEW YORK CITY | $8,250,000
24 W 71ST STREET TOWNHOUSE | $17,650,000
Welcome to Residence 17B, first time to market, this exquisite residence is an expansive and elegant family sized 3004 square foot home comprised of a fully equipped chef’s kitchen, three grand bedrooms and ultra chic and separate dramatic corner dining area, three bathrooms, one powder room and private laundry room. The Eastern side of the residence spans over an exceptional and dramatic 50 linear feet with grand scale 11-foot floor to ceiling windows directly facing unobstructed serene River views. The long iconic hallway leads to three voluminous bedroom suites all three with walls of windows, quintessential city views and breathtaking light. At the far end of the proper hallway lies the gracious master bedroom. WebID 716600
Originally commissioned by Elizabeth Milbank in 1888 with famed architects Hugh Lamb and Charles Alonzo Rich, 24 West 71 is 20 feet wide and includes a state-of-the-art elevator, nearly 9,000 Square Feet of interior living space, 10 working fireplaces, and the most astonishing architectural details. The stunning façade, spanning the garden and parlor levels, is made of rough-cut granite and stained-glass windows to frame the six bedrooms and six and a half bathrooms. Laced in custom millwork still original to the 1880’s, the parlor level offers a massive welcoming and dining level that can accommodate upwards of 150 guests! The master dining room has kept most of its original detail from the butternut hexagon parquet flooring to the massive mahogany crown molding surrounding the 24-ct gold coffered ceiling with mahogany trim. WebID 655412
JESSICA C. CAMPBELL 917 621 7815 jessicac@nestseekers.com WENDY JACKSON 646 443 3735 wendyj@nestseekers.com
RYAN SERHANT 646 480 7665 ryans@nestseekers.com VINNY LAPUMA 646 812 2437 VinnyL@NestSeekers.com
246 W 17TH ST APT 3E | $3,075,000 | WebID 683763 2 BEDS | 2.5 BA | 1488 sq ft JESSICA C. CAMPBELL 917 621 7815 jessicac@nestseekers.com
15 W 53RD ST UNIT 35A | $4,500,000 | WebID 17296 2 BEDS | 2.5 BA | 2248 sq ft JOHNNY MANSILLA 917 963 3566 JM@nestseekers.com
80 RIVERSIDE BLVD APT 28D | $4,100,000 | WebID 570646 3 BEDS | 3.5 BA | 1845 sq ft DENNIS DING 917 981 7986 Dennisd@nestseekers.com
200 RIVERSIDE BLVD APT 12K | $5,995,000 | WebID 710811 5 BEDS | 5 BA | 2683 sq ft MOSHE BALALO 718 506 8475 Moshe@NestSeekers.com JP SMITH 917 733 8290 JPS@NestSeekers.com
310 E 53RD ST APT 18A | $3,495,000 | WebID 688361 2 BEDS | 2.5 BA | 1603 sq ft ADAM MARIUCCI 408 596 0497 adam@nestseekers.com KATIE SULLIVAN 408 893 4590 Katie@NestSeekers.com
80 RIVERSIDE BLVD APT 19E | $3,295,000 | WebID 651192 2 BEDS | 3 BA | 1482 sq ft KASH GUHA 917 797 5683 Kash@NestSeekers.com ANDY H. KIM 917 968 1365 AndyK@NestSeekers.com
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PROPERTIES 5 FRANKLIN PLACE APT 3/4-BC |
80 RIVERSIDE BOULEVARD APT 33C |
$5,750,000
Welcome to 3/4-BC an exceptional 2,456SF generous home locates at 5 Franklin Place one of Tribeca’s newest developments. As you enter the living room you are immediately struck by the double height ceilings and its oversized windows overlooking Tribeca. No photograph can capture the experience of walking into this exceptional duplex loft, the only one of its kind, anywhere. This unique duplex layout features 5 gracious sized rooms, 5 inch oak hardwood floors, and an endless amount of storage space including a storage unit. 3/4-BC features luxuriously finished & spacious bathrooms with hand-laid imported marble, Waterworks fixtures, double vanity, and separate shower and bathtub. On the upper level we are welcomed with an oversized Master Bedroom, enormous walk in closet, double vanity restroom with both Deep soaking tub & Shower, and an adjoining study/workout room. WebID 694510
RON OVADIA 917 655 8513 RonO@NestSeekers.com
LONG ISLAND CITY, NY | $2,698,000 | WebID 707178 4630 Center Blvd 1701 | 3 BEDS | 3 BA | 1492 sq ft SILVETTE JULIAN 917 846 3942 silvettej@nestseekers.com
MIAMI, FL | $41,800,000 | WebID 487684 4 BEDS | 7.5 BA | 10100 sq ft JOHNNY MANSILLA 917 963 3566 JM@nestseekers.com
$9,995,000
Step into this new stunning home at the Rushmore on 80 Riverside Boulevard in the prestigious Upper West Side neighborhood. From the moment you walk into this space you will be greeted by breathtaking 360 degree views of the Hudson River, Lincoln Center, GW Bridge and the World Trade Center. The panoramic views are not the only features found throughout this home. The unit hosts its own Crestron Home Automation System, a keyless biometric entry and security cameras as well as the home’s built in sound system. Wired for the modern homeowner, this home also features custom lighting, remote climate control and automatic blinds throughout. The entire home was designed with entertaining in mind featuring a gracious open layout. WebID 696422
MOSHE BALALO 718 506 8475 Moshe@NestSeekers.com CORNELL JONES 917 676 4549 Cornell@NestSeekers.com JP SMITH 917 733 8290 JPS@NestSeekers.com
WEEHAWKEN, NJ | $3,750,000 | WebID 685458 3 BEDS | 3.5 BA | 3139 sq ft GILLI AXEL 917 582 3181 GilliA@NestSeekers.com
LOS ANGELES, CA | $3,195,000 | WebID 536627 7 BEDS | 7 BA | 12000 sq ft JERROD JONES 310 795 6855 jerrodj@nestseekers.com
JERSEY CITY, NJ | $1,395,000 | WebID 708131 3 BEDS | 3 BA | 2700sq ft DARRELL ROCH 860 209 4136 DarrellR@NestSeekers.com
LOS ANGELES, CA | $24,500,000 | WebID 700249 6 BEDS | 8.BA | 12000 sq ft TYLER NAKAZAKI 424 247 4879 TylerNa@nestseekers.com
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IRELAND CASTLE HOPPING By Joe Alexander
Joe Alexander is the travel editor and society columnist for Social Life Magazine. He focuses on culture, theatre, movies, and food. Joe was born in New York City. His stories have been featured in numerous national magazines, including Haute Living. Joe lives in Manhattan and Southampton with his Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Cornelia and Webster.
CLONALIS HOUSE
KINGS OF CONNACHT
It was early evening when we arrived at Clonalis House in Castlerea, in Western Ireland, about two hours from Dublin International Airport. Clonalis House is the ancestral home of the O’Conor family, its iron gates bearing an insignia with a tasteful touch of gold. We drove up the long drive flanked by stately trees, past vast green fields where a picturesque herd of cows was grazing languidly.
When the house finally came into view, we were impressed by the grandness of this Victorian Italianate-style pile. We rang the bell, and after a few minutes, an elegant woman wearing an apron appeared. She turned out to be the lady of the house, Marguerite O’Conor Nash, and she was the most gracious hostess we met in Ireland. We were immediately made to feel at home in this imposing house that sits on land the O’Conors have owned for over 1,000 years. This is unique, the same family living on their land in their ancestral home for ten centuries. The O’Conor family included eleven High Kings of Ireland and 24 Kings of Connacht.
Clonalis House, County Roscommon, Ireland
Social Life
T R AV E L
Great Hall of Clonalis House
HIGH KING OF IRELAND The current house was built in 1880 by Charles Owen O’Conor Don, the great grandfather of today’s proprietor, Pyers O’Conor Nash, a banker, who would have had a claim to High King of Ireland, had history veered toward the monarchy. He is the embodiment of the charming, approachable Irishman, and a man of letters and history who drives a tractor as if it were a Ferrari. In front of the house sits the Coronation Stone of the Irish kings, one of only two such stones left in the country that were used as part of the coronation ritual. On the grounds is a courtyard with mews and cottages that can be rented for vacations, and on a walk around the estate you’ll find ruins of the original Clonalis House. Five miles away are ruins of the O’Conor Castle, called Ballintubber, which is currently the site of an architectural dig. They’ve gotten down to the fourteenth century and found the foundations of a medieval town.
STATELY ROOMS The main floor of Clonalis House is a series of elegant and stately rooms all of which are in constant use by the intimate group of guests. A formal sitting room contains portraits of the beautiful and storied O’Conor ladies; a red-hued dining room has an astonishing assortment of silver table ornaments. We were ushered to a second-floor corner room complete with a four-poster bed and bucolic views, and it rivaled anything you’ve seen on Downton Abbey. The bathroom was as large as many studio apartments in New York City, and came with a seating area. We had a lovely dinner in the library, and on another night all the guests joined together for dinner in the main dining room. Breakfast is served in the less formal kitchen room and features local breads, eggs, herbs, and even plums from Marguerite’s garden.
INTIMATE HOSPITALITY A stay at Clonalis House is personal, as there are only four guest bedrooms, and the family has only eight guests at a time. It’s akin to staying at a great country house, exactly as it would have been in the SocialLifeMagazine.com
Bedroom of Clonalis House
1800s. Of course, there aren’t as many scullery maids nowadays, but there is more than sufficient staff to keep the place in impeccable order. The mansion has 45 rooms, which are furnished with Louis XV and Sheraton antiques and filled with family heirlooms and costumes. Nine generations of family portraits line the walls, each with an intriguing story that Pyers O’Conor Nash is happy to narrate. clonalis.com
HIDDEN IRELAND Clonalis House is part of Hidden Ireland, a grand collection of historic country houses where visitors can stay. All of these houses are privately owned and markedly different from contemporary accommodations in Ireland. They range from Ireland’s and Northern Ireland’s most important Georgian buildings to charming rural rectories. What they have in common is a commitment to traditional hospitality and service in a modern world. hiddenireland.com Pyers and Marguerite O’Conor Nash in Dining Room of Clonalis House
T R AV E L
Ashford Castle, County Mayo
Ashford Castle Interior
Coole Castle, County Fermanagh
WHAT TO DO & SEE NEAR CLONALIS HOUSE
gave the property to the Irish government in 1939, and in 1951, John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara stayed there while shooting the classic movie The Quiet Man. A later renovation turned it into the swank hotel it is today. ashfordcastle.com
The best way to see Ireland and its reported forty shades of green is on a road trip. I suggest hiring a comfortable sedan and knowledgeable driver to make the adventurous rounds of ancient castles and grand country houses Ireland is justly famous for. You can do a lot of history-hopping within a two-hour radius of Clonalis House, which is in County Roscommon.
ASHFORD CASTLE An hour’s drive from Clonalis House is Ashford Castle in County Mayo, a medieval estate dating from 1228, overlooking Lough Corrib. Now a luxury hotel, this is the perfect place for lunch and a stroll around the gardens, or to treat yourself to high tea, which is served in a Victorian-era drawing room with views to the water. The history here is long. In more modern times, namely 1852, Sir Benjamin Lee Guinness, a member of the brewing dynasty and the richest man in Ireland, bought the estate. He expanded the place, adding Victorian-style extensions to the house and also buying more land. The Guinness family
CASTLE COOLE The next day we headed to Castle Coole, possibly the grandest Georgian mansion in Ireland, which is under two hours away from Clonalis House. The interior décor is incredibly elaborate and rich, and though the castle itself is run by the National Trust, the contents inside are still owned by the eighth Earl of Belmore, John Lowry-Corry, who lives in the west wing of the house. He is constantly updating and rearranging the collection of furniture, paintings, and objects d’art. Queen Elizabeth visited in the late 1980s after a renovation, and Jessica Chastain and Colin Farrell filmed Miss Julie here. Castle Coole’s vast grounds make for lovely long walks year-round, but do note that the mansion is open only at certain times of the year. nationaltrust.org.uk/castle-coole Social Life
T R AV E L
Coole Castle Interior
Tully Castle, Country Fermanagh
STROKESTOWN PARK
MONEA CASTLE
Also nearby is Strokestown Park, a manor house built in the seventeenth century as the family home of Pakenham Mahons, known as Cromwellian adventurers because they risked their money investing in the suppression of the Irish Rebellion of 1654. The Mahons lived here from the 1600s until 1979. This grand estate, located in County Roscommon, was infamous for its role in the great Irish famine of the 1840s, when thousands of tenant farmers were evicted and forced to emigrate to North America. Today it houses the National Irish Famine Museum. While waiting for a guided tour of the house to begin, we popped into the walled pleasure garden, and wandering through this sixacre English-style garden turned out to be a real joy. There were avenues with green arches, a mini maze leading to a green square with large topiaries, plus a lily pond, and several architectural follies. While the house contains plenty of antique furniture, silver, and paintings, when we visited, the interiors were rather faded; we noticed peeling paint and wallpaper. The house has recently been taken over by the Irish Heritage Trust and there are high hopes that it will be refurbished and its glory restored. strokestownpark.ie
Two more historic locales were on our list, Monea Castle and Tully Castle, both mere ruins today. At Monea, we came upon several herds of milk cows and their calves and a couple-dozen horses and their foals. They happily trotted over to the fence looking for the apples we had brought along.
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TULLY CASTLE Nearby Tully Castle has a tragic, blood-soaked history as the site of a massacre during the 1641 Irish Rebellion, an eleven-year conflict between Irish Catholics and English and Scottish Protestant settlers. The Catholic Maguire family attempted to reclaim the property, and on Christmas Day killed 60 women and children and 15 men at the castle, and then burnt it to the ground. A visitors’ center in a restored farmhouse at the site features an exhibition of local lore relating to the castle. castles.nl/tully-castle
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TOWER SUITES TOWERING ABOVE THE WORLD: LUXURY IN ICELAND By Anthony Giampetruzzi
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uick. Easy. Inexpensive. These are all adjectives that have been used to describe Iceland, a European destination on everyone’s bucket list, mainly because of its reputation as an exotic (albeit, certainly not tropical) outpost. While the small Nordic country feels far flung, it certainly lives up to quick and easy with comfortable direct flights from NYC airports. There are some new descriptors the jet set is using when discussing this Viking-esque fairyland: luxurious and magical. And, by the way, while inexpensive is certainly relative, everything from lodging, food, adventure, and art runs the gamut from budget to extravagant as more and more guests pour in seeking high-end, but location-appropriate, understated amenities. Many jet in for an adventure replete with glaciers, volcanoes, and vistas so magnificent, they remind one of a scene from, say, Game of Thrones. It’s not a coincidence. Game is one of dozens of TV shows and movies, including Thor, Fast and Furious, and Star Wars that recently have enticed entire production crews. And celebs. Not surprisingly, the stars and their friends are coming back for less intense work, like enjoying mindboggling meals of local fare reimagined by some of the most sensational French-trained chefs. Of course, at the center of it all is Reykjavik, a world class city that
Aerial view of Tower Suites in the heart of Reykjavik
boasts exclusive restaurants and hotels. While less expensive than Paris or London, Iceland’s capital is certainly not cheap. Three days is all you need to take in Reykjavik-proper (although a week or two is necessary to get your full Iceland on), and just enough time to meander street after street of galleries and other high-end shops, eat to your heart’s content, take in a show or two, head to the iconic Blue Lagoon (bluelagoon.com) for a soak and a treatment, and, yes, stay out all night. Note: the nightlife here is legendary, perhaps because, for many months, daylight is the exception and not the rule. Our pick is Tower Suites (towersuites.is) for the ultimate in luxury, privacy, and pure heaven. Situated on the top floor of the country’s tallest building, Tower Suites, a designated Small Luxury Hotel of the World, confirms that Iceland has come into its own in a big way. Upon arriving and depending on your needs, you may actually ascend to the Suites from an underground garage — this is typically the route taken by celebrities who demand privacy and anonymity. Entering from the elevator to the Sky Lounge, guests immediately get it: this is exclusive. Modern furniture and art are the backdrop for a bar and refrigerators well-stocked with high-end libations. As with all eight suites, the view from the lounge is spectacular. If it’s available, request the Esja Corner Suite. Exceptionally modern and spacious, Esja features panoramic views of the harbor, city, Social Life
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and Mt. Esja. Enter into a formal sitting area with a widescreen TV and a large walk-in closet. None of this really matters yet, because the views will stun. A wine cooler can be carefully curated prior to your arrival by on-site wine experts, and Icelandic glacial water, craft beer, soft drinks, and sweets are complimentary. The cloud-like king-sized bed may tempt you into not leaving the suite, and the nearby soaking tub will only reinforce this impulse. However, both the bed and tub (as well as every other location in the suite) is surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows with beckoning vistas. Enjoy your bath or shower with Soley Organics and a local luxury brand of all-natural suds and salves. Breakfast is served by the HaPP restaurant and may be taken in your suite, but our advice is to mingle with other guests in the Sky Lounge. This is generally one of the best ways to learn where and what is the hot activity. Don’t miss the avocado, rucola, and poached egg on a slice of HaPP bread, with a side of chia pudding with almond milk, blueberries, flaxseeds, and mango sauce. To get a lay of the land prior to venturing out on your own, arrange for a private tour of Reykjavik and the nearby environs from Servio Luxury Transport (servio.is). Well known for their chauffeuring services for film stars and crews, visiting celebs, heads of state, and other VIPS, expert drivers like Marinó Árnason can provide an exclusive overview of the area as well as some insider info on local hot spots. If you want to dine at Dill, the country’s only Michelin-rated restaurant, you’ll need to plan months in advance. Our pick is Fish Company (fiskfelagid.is) in the heart of the old town. Opt for the tasting menu, which will likely include inventive preparations of local favorites like lamb, cod, and surprisingly fresh produce. Be sure to check out nearby Skuli Craft Bar for a local brew and stargazing. This is the absolute best place to get a flight of Borg beers, a recent Icelandic institution (particularly considering that beer was only recently permitted in Iceland — long story). Depending on your age and constitution, you’ll either want to hit the clubs or the hay. Rinse with Soley. And repeat . . . with a new itinerary, which the experts at Tower Suites will be happy to provide.
Esja Corner Suite
Esja Corner Suite
THE INSIDE SCOOP Upon arriving at Tower Suites, there’s a good chance you’ll be greeted by Kristín Birgitta Gunnarsdóttir, the front desk manager. A native of Iceland, but a world traveler, Kristín ensures the comfort, confidentiality, and care of every guest. Kristín shares below what makes Tower Suites the new benchmark for luxury. If you had your choice of any room at Tower Suites, which would you request and why? That’s a tough one but a corner suite would be a real treat since it is bigger and has a greater view. All of them are unique, but if you twist my arm, I will probably choose Esja Suite Who are some of the most famous visitors to Tower Suites — hints will do! Nice try! We’ve had well-known guests staying with us, but confidentiality is a big factor here at Tower Suites, so not even a hint — sorry guys!
Sky Lounge: for drinks, breakfast, or vista gazing
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Is it true that you’ve had a number of visitors book the entire property? Yes, that’s true, and it’s actually a great option for many since the hotel consists of only eight suites. A buy-out opens up many options when it comes to service because it can be tailored to the guests’ wishes and needs.
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HOTEL RANGÁ OUT-OF-THE-WAY LUXE, ICELANDIC STYLE By Anthony Giampetruzzi
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or many, a trip to Iceland is nothing more than a two- or three-day stopover in Reykjavik for a small but memorable sampling of an emerging hot spot. For those in the know, however, Iceland is a big and beautiful place, and to truly understand the grandeur of glaciers, volcanoes, geysers, and the Northern Lights, one must venture away from the city. While there are indeed many options for serious isolation, one of the most spectacular lodges for upscale adventure is Hotel Rangá. Recently designated a Small Luxury Hotel of the World, it is just a short hour from Reykjavik. Yes, this is the place for stargazing and exposure to the Northern Lights. This celebrated four-star hotel understands why travelers flock here, and it takes its responsibility seriously. Upon entering, you’ll see dozens of onesies hanging near the entrance. They’re on hand so that guests can hop out of bed without fuss and plop into an outdoor gazing lounger. Rangá offers a complimentary Northern Lights “alert” service — no matter the time of night — that the lights are shimmering. That’s just one reason why the elite are seeking out this option for adventure. Another? Authenticity. The resort is built in log-cabin style and through the years has acquired a reputation for its gourmet food, accommodations, and service. In addition to being a celebrity
Hotel Ranga awash in the Northern Lights
Antarctica Suite: modern luxe
hot spot, it serves as a perfect “wow” destination for weddings, honeymoons, or a jumping-off spot for attractions such as the Eyjafjallajökull glacier, the Golden Circle route, and the Glacier Lagoon (Jökulsárlón). First thing’s first: request one of the exclusive suites, each themed and designed after one of the seven continents. In addition to luxury appointments, the décor is perfectly described by the hotel itself as “a world apart.” While Rangá amenities are superb across the board, its trump card is its location. It’s the perfect home base to explore the Icelandic highlands, glaciers, volcanoes, black sand beaches, fishing villages, magnificent waterfalls, and hot springs. Not to be missed is a Golden Circle tour. It can be customized by Rangá to your timeframe and interests, but be sure to plan at least a full day so you can take in the spectacular Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and the famous Gullfoss waterfall. Along the way, be sure to make a pit stop at the incomparable Fridheimar Farm (fridheimar.is) where many of Iceland’s tomatoes are grown in greenhouses as far as the eye can see. The onsite restaurant features all things tomato. Everything is outstanding: from Bloody Marys to Fridheimar tomato soup, this destination is an absolute must. After a couple of Bloodies, you’ll be ready to return to Rangá to take in a soak before dinner. And later, if you’re fortunate enough to get the call, you’ll take in an unobstructed view of the Northern Lights. Social Life
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KARL JOHANN UNNARSSON THE HEAD CHEF AT HOTEL RANGÁ
FROM SEA AND SOIL, YOUTH SPRINGS ETERNAL
More and more, Iceland is becoming a destination for foodies. One explanation for the appeal is that most chefs prefer an uncomplicated but decidedly original approach to preparing traditional Icelandic fare. Karl Johann Unnarsson, the head chef at Hotel Rangá, was born and raised on a farm in south Iceland, from where he derives inspiration. “I know it was the nature and the closeness to the farm and the animals that got me interested in cooking,” he says. Having trained in Copenhagen, Unnarsson is now making waves at one of the most remote — and delectable — restaurants in the world.
One of the best-kept secrets of Iceland is a health and beauty industry fueled by the type of ingredients that can be found only in a place known for its pristine water, volcanic soils, and self-improvement sensibilities. Here are a few of our favorites.
In what way does the restaurant uphold a modern Nordic philosophy? Local, fresh ingredients and clean cooking. I mix fermenting, smoking, and curing — an Icelandic tradition of following the season — with modern techniques. What is the one dish, or local specialty that a visitor should never miss? Puffin would be in first place as it is very Icelandic and hard to find anywhere else in the world. What one restaurant are you dying to visit? Eleven Madison Park is still my number one — I’ve been three times. I want to try Alinea in Chicago next.
BIOEFFECT BIOEFFECT.COM BIOEFFECT got its start when the founders discovered a way to bio-engineer a plant-based replica of EGF, a naturally occurring human protein, in barley. The result is a complete product line made with rare and unique ingredients that slough off years of aging. Beauty editors and bloggers around the world hail BIOEFFECT as “the miracle product you’ve never heard of.” Get started with the BIOEFFECT EGF Day Serum ($145) and decide for yourself.
SKYN SKYNICELAND.COM Cruelty-free, 100% vegan, recycled packaging. Skyn’s impressive line of products is aligned in every way with its pristine locale. Dry skin? Arctic Face Oil ($30) brings back pep. Prefer to forgo the needle? Give Plumping Lip Gels ($35) a whirl. If you’re into product, this is a wonderland — they have it all.
FEEL ICEAND FEELICELAND.COM Inspired by observing her Viking-fisherman grandfather, Feel Iceland’s founder, Hronn Margret Magnusdottir, thought there must be a way to use byproducts of the daily catch. She was right. Ingredients she refers to as “gold” are now formulated into youth-generating food supplements and skin care products. Amino Marine Collagen ($70) is a hydrolyzed collagen powder made purely from Icelandic fish skin. The Be Kind Age Rewind facial serum ($74), with marine-derived collagen, is manna.
Karl Johann Unnarsson
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TURKS AND CAICOS REIMAGINED By Jacob Puck
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f you’re of the Hamptons mindset, (and, as a Social Life reader, you must be), you’re always on the hunt for the hottest, most exclusive new getaway in the Caribbean. After all, our winter island jaunts should be only a few weeks away from planning if we truly want elite and private. Here’s a tip: South Caicos, of the inimitable Turks and Caicos, is about as pristine and untouched as anywhere else in the islands, and those in the know are taking note. Vacationers, rejoice. Investors, pay attention. South Caicos, or The Big South as it’s often referred to, has become the destination within the T & C destination. With the best natural harbor in the region, and home to the annual Big South Regatta each May, South Caicos is the newest destination for adventurers as well as sun worshippers. Scuba divers delight in South Caicos’s pristine diving with breathtaking walls, vast varieties of coral, and unrivaled marine life. Large sea creatures such as sharks, eagle rays, loggerhead turtles, spotted rays, octopus, and barracudas share the sites with a range of small animals and underwater flora. Truly a photographer’s dream, it’s no surprise that South Caicos is home to the marine research arm of the renowned School for Field Studies. Cockburn Harbor, the heart of the area, was once the most exclusive community in the Turks and Caicos islands, playing host to royalty and rogues throughout its rich history. In fact, Queen Elizabeth II has chosen South Caicos as a preferred destination. The town reflects its British and Bermudian heritage, with many examples of classic architecture, quaint stone walls bordering property, narrow streets, and friendly helpful people. Not to be missed is a trip to the iguana preserve on Long Cay. But, all of that is secondary to the luxe resorts.
What’s catching our eye for the 2017/2018 season? We have a hook on a few exclusive properties. Sail Rock Hotel — A premier luxury resort nestled privately along the pristine beaches of the Caribbean, Sail Rock showcases the allure of South Caicos. Minutes away from the third-largest coral reef and miles of undeveloped land, Sail Rock Resort is the perfect setting for connoisseurs of authentic experiences. Check out Ridgetop Suites elevated above the shoreline for ultimate privacy or the Beachfront Villas for easy access to the ocean. This brand new resort gives new meaning to unparalleled service, exclusivity, and relaxation in a luxurious out-island setting. Watch for the incomparable Na Spa coming early 2018. sailrockresort.com East Bay Resort — If you’re a veteran of the area, you already know the allure of this legendary spot. Graced with one of the finest white-sand beaches in the Caribbean, it’s an oceanfront resort designed for guests seeking a private vacation with all the comforts of home, plus access to fine cuisine, pampering spa treatments, and an exceptional water sports program. eastbayresort.com Turks and Caicos Shore Club — Finally, no visit to the islands would be complete without experiencing this new, bespoke jewel, with three spectacular restaurants, sophisticated bars, and unique pools, as well as smart on-site shopping, a world-class gym and spa, a complimentary Kids Club, and a wide range of water activities, The Shore Club is the ideal setting for the first or last chapter of your perfect story. theshoreclubtc.com Social Life
TURKS & CAICOS Home to the Best Beach in the World, breathtaking hues from inviting waters, and legendary diving, snorkeling and fishing.
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E D I T O R ’ S C H O I C E : B E S T S A N D A N D WAT E R I N T H E C A R I B B E A N
THE JEWEL OF THE BVI YOUR OWN PRIVATE LUXURY OASIS ON PETER ISLAND By Cecilia Boon
ROMANTIC & RESTFUL ROOMS
Falcon’s Nest Villa
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isten to the steel-drum band playing familiar tunes on the pure white sands of Deadman’s Beach. Sip on a homemade rum punch and gaze at swaying palm trees and pelicans diving into the turquoise waters . . . fantasy? No, it’s the secluded, seductive, sensational Peter Island. When the temperatures begin to fall and you start to daydream about escaping the cold and dreary days of winter, consider this: your own private island smack-dab in the middle of the visually unrivaled British Virgin Islands (BVI). One of a very few privately-owned pieces of paradise in the BVI, Peter Island Resort & Spa remains blissfully remote, regenerative, and peaceful, occupying only 300 of the small island’s 1,800 acres while offering luxury on all levels. And, the water is clear — crystal clear. It’s a beach lover’s sanctuary. The resort’s grounds are luxurious and offer five private beaches, each more beautiful than the next, sprinkled with swathes of wild sea grapes and coconuts. Wildlife and sea life surrounding the island include the green sea turtle, horse-eyed jacks, butterfly fish, juvenile blue tang, starlet fire coral, hiding flame scallops, Christmas tree worms, among other natural wonders. Located south of Tortola between Norman Island and Salt Island with Dead Man’s Chest to the north, Peter Island's early visitors are said to have included Christopher Columbus, Sir Francis Drake, various German planters, privateers, and the famous pirate Blackbeard. Blackbeard is thought to have buried treasure on nearby Dead Chest Island, where he marooned his men with only a sword and a cask of rum. They later washed up off of Deadman’s Bay.
With sweeping views of the turquoise seas and white-sand beaches, guestrooms and suites boast high ceilings, gigantic bathrooms with deep soaking jacauzzi tubs for two, private patios (some with hammocks) and, for product aficionados, Natura Bisse toiletries from Spain. Splurge on a Beach Front Junior Suite. As noted, guests here are sparse and that’s exactly why you chose this corner of paradise. Go (almost) all in . . . we’ll explain what taking the true dive means later. The suites are not only secluded and away from the hustle and bustle of the dock, gift shop, and eateries, but they will draw out the voyeur in you. Relax on your patio or lounge in your private hammock and assess the situation on the storybook Deadman’s Beach. From your suite, you can determine the best place to soak up soleil, people watch, and properly position for the best cabana service (tip: fish tacos are an absolute must once you make it to the beach). For the “all in” experience, Peter Island Resort also offers three exquisite private villas with panoramic views, private pools, luxury amenities, and bespoke service. Guests at the Crow’s Nest and Falcon’s Nest villas have access to personal staff, including chef, housekeeper, chauffeur, and butler. Falcon’s Nest is the most storied of the trifecta, and a frequent choice of the A-list. Perched high atop one of the island’s most picturesque bluffs, this crown jewel overlooks White Bay Beach with views of Norman Island and distant St. John. A Barcelona-style villa estate consisting of three separate residences with six spacious suites, seven baths and three half baths, Falcon’s Nest spans a total of 21,645 interior square feet. It even has its own three-story waterfall with a grotto, grilling gazebo with a swim-up wet bar, an infinity-edge pool, dipping pool, and large outdoor whirlpool. It’s a wowza. Go ahead and request a no-fly zone over the villa for the ultimate in privacy. The staff can oblige, and you can be assured that those pesky photos don’t make their way to Page Six. Social Life
E D I T O R ’ S C H O I C E : B E S T S A N D A N D WAT E R I N T H E C A R I B B E A N
EXTRAORDINARY FOOD & WINE GO TOGETHER LIKE SUN AND SAND For vino connoisseurs out there, you know how important a proper glass of wine is with a good meal. Luckily, the hotel’s signature restaurant, Tradewinds, has a climate-controlled wine room with over 300 selections, including the Caribbean’s most exclusive collection of Champagne, wine, cognac, Armagnac, grappa, and eau de vie. The hotel offers two restaurants with menus packed with culinary delights from around the world. Tradewinds features the Caribbean’s most renowned chefs serving delicious bistro and Asian-Caribbean cuisine. And Deadman’s Beach Bar & Grill serves a fusion of Caribbean and continental flavors with dishes. Dinner at Deadman’s Bar and Grill
LUX DETOXING & SPA INDULGENCE
Spa alongside a private beach
A spectacular 10,000-foot spa perched high up on the island, overlooking Big Reef Bay, is the ultimate setting to achieve rest and relaxation. Indulge in a soothing massage in the resort’s luxury spa specializing in ancient Indian Ayurvedic treatments. The spa includes 10 indoor treatment rooms, two outdoor bohios, couples suites, a beachside Jacuzzi, and a tranquility garden. The spa also specializes in Ayurvedic treatments, a traditional system of Indian medicine renowned for detoxifying and rejuvenating the body. Ayurvedic treatments (“ayur” means life and “veda” means science) utilize various healing modalities to prevent disease, preserve health, and promote longevity. This natural system of medicine has been used for 5,000 years and the hotel offers bespoke wellness programs that include treatments and a food program designed to meet your dietary needs. Detox in luxurious paradise. Doctors Ashalatha and Ajay Krishna have degrees in naturopathy and yogic sciences from medical schools in India (yes, they too, studied for six years to be qualified to practice). They will answer all of your questions and put you at ease, just in time for a massage that will leave you feeling light as a feather.
UNRIVALED HOSPITALITY
Deadman’s Beach
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Beck. Call. However you phone it in, you won’t want for an answer or a service. Whether tucked away in a villa, nestled into a beachfront suite, or basking in the never-ending sun on Deadman’s Beach, you’ll soon find the service on Peter Island (as well as the personalized service getting off and on the island) is legendary. Upscale snacks and libations keep you sated, even when on a romantic, exclusive getaway to Honeymoon Beach (book this ahead of time). If you’ve retreated to your room for an hour or two of catch-up on your Netflix queue, you’ll be pleased to find localized WiFi for lickity-split zeros and ones. And, if getting off the island is your poison, check in with Alexis or one of her expert staff for a personalized itinerary. Obviously, you don’t want to miss Virgin Gorda, but have you thought about a casual lunch on Cooper? Check it out.peterisland.com
LIFESTYLE
A DAY IN THE SOCIAL LIFE EAST HAMPTON By Karen Holly Berliner
Fresno
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f all that the Hamptons offered was its naturally magnificent beaches, it would be more than enough. East Hampton’s Main Beach for instance, provides the perfect blend of nature with its stretch of sandy quartz grains, towering dunes, and clear blue waters. Today we drive out to this northeastern coastal escape, park our car in the Main Beach lot, remove our shoes and socks and replace them with flip flops. We take our first brisk walk along the shore. For me, the season has not yet begun until I’ve poked a toe in the sand and a foot in the water. The sand feels powdery and just warm enough to sink our feet into, nature’s foot massage. Although a chill is still lingering in the air, many of the early seasonal dog walkers are out today. One dog grabs the leash of his fellow dog between his teeth and playfully pulls him along in his impatience to explore. They romp and they play with abandon, daring each other to step into the gently crashing waves of the ocean. Neighbors greet each other with eager smiles as everybody it seems, is in a good mood today. How can you feel anything other than happy on
a day like today in the Hamptons. This destination, located at the farthest reaches of Eastern Long Island, comprises the hamlets and villages of Southampton, Westhampton, and Bridgehampton, which along with Amagansett, Montauk and Quogue, offer their own distinct personalities, assuring all vacation itineraries are covered, no matter your preference. Beyond the endless miles of jagged-edged beach, unspoiled farmland, and yacht-filled harbors, expect quaint roadside farm stands, outstanding world-class wineries, and rich history. For its cultural dimension, add art galleries, antique shops, museums, and premium restaurants. Luxurious B&Bs, beloved historical mansions, palatial estates, and sprawling nautical resorts beckon you to stay and replenish. The approach from 27 begins with a pristine pond flanked by rows of historical inns, green acreage, and of course a windmill or two. One of the most coveted addresses here is Lily Pond Lane, so we take a leisurely drive along this wide road. Between the hedges you can glimpse houses, many belonging to celebrities. After a while, we Social Life
LIFESTYLE
The Baker House 1650
stop for lunch at Fresno, a contemporary bistro, the dining space colored in muted tones and lined with sleek upholstered banquettes, accented by French doors that lead to a landscaped terrace. A zinctopped bar completes the look. Co-owners David Loewenberg and Michael Nolan along with the Gretchen Menser, the executive chef, at the helm ensure a memorable meal. We sample a few of the signature dishes: the charred Spanish octopus with roasted garlic, white bean puree, pickled fennel, Castelvetrano olives, and caper vinaigrette. Following this we share a delicious entrée: the cazuela roasted local tilefish with maitake, enoki, and shiitake mushrooms, bok choy, rice noodles, lemongrass, dashi, and bean sprouts. The meal is paired perfectly with fine wines, per the expertise offered here to guests. Next, we head back over to Main Street and straight into the driveway of The Baker House 1650. Upon entering this boutique mansion, one of the oldest houses in the village, we are immediately charmed. We stop and take it all in: the arched entryway, the common great room complete with fireplace, and the many spaces throughout the house — all designed for comfort and ease. This boutique hotel is stocked to the brim with luxe amenities such as flat screen TVs, Bose stereos with iPod docks, minibars, WiFi, L’Occitane toiletries, Frette towels and robes, two-person Jacuzzi tubs, and antique claw-footed tubs, with most bedrooms offering
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Elements Fitness Studio
wood-burning fireplaces. A beautiful dining area and a well-stocked bar and library add dimension and social pizzazz. The onsite spa has a Jacuzzi tub, steam shower and sauna, and offers everything from body treatments to facials and massages. We sneak a dip in the infinity pool, a teaser to the outdoor pool that awaits us and the beach swimming that we hope to do later this season. Elements Fitness Studio, a boutique fitness studio, specializes in barre fitness, dance, cardio, sculpt, HIIT fusion, yoga flow, and SUP classes. We note that Elements offers an exclusive partnership with Montauk Beach House all summer long, featuring poolside workouts and other special events. Other partnerships are Glam & Go, an in-studio pop-up with blow dry and styling services; and Naturopathica, offering complimentary massages and trunk shows by brands such as HPE and Grace by Grit. After a good solid workout, we head back for a lazy nap followed by a cocktail on the Bakerhouse property garden. In the early evening, we head over to Dopo La Spiaggia, a high-end Italian eatery, which recently opened its second location in East Hampton following the success of its Southampton site. This larger 3,000-squarefoot space features 136 seats, an outdoor seating area, an indoor fireplace, and a sprawling bar. Fans of chef Maurizio Marfoglia’s southern Italian cooking will recognize many of his locally-sourced
LIFESTYLE
Dopo La Spiaggia
signature dishes as well as fresh and new menu items. Some current menu favorites include a shaved Brussels sprouts Caesar salad with toasted pine nuts. Couple this with the pan-seared halibut, faro, purple kale, and chanterelle mushrooms for a perfect supper. The wine list is exceptional and specialty cocktails are fun and tasty. The next day provides a glimpse of the summer season to come with sunny skies and the fragrant bouquet of florals in the air. A yoga stretch would be perfect first thing, so we head over to JBYoga Studio in town, which offers all yoga levels and styles. Because it’s owned and operated by Jessica Bellofatto, we know that we’re in qualified hands. We catch an All-Open level class and stretch it out. Having worked up an appetite, we head over to La Fondita in nearby Amagansett. Mexican tiled counters dotted with bowls of homemade salsa, hanging star-shaped lights and vibrant Mexican wall décor all enhance the mood. The sound of authentic Mexican music fills the air and the aromas of sizzling meats drift from the open kitchen. Outdoor picnic tables are available for outdoor dining. We select some of the new specials like the tasty quesadilla supremo with grilled steak and pico de gallo topped with crema. Another great choice is the tostada de tinga: crispy corn tortilla topped with refried beans, chipotle chicken, lettuce, queso fresco, and crema. For the vegetarian foodie, the quesadilla de champinones with sautéed onions, mushrooms, tomatoes, poblano peppers, and cilantro is tasty and filling. Our next lodging spot is East Hampton Point. Situated on fiveacres and overlooking Three Mile Harbor, this pristine property features a full-service marina and boatyard, year-round accommodations, and a waterfront restaurant. Dine at one of their several water view perches, such as the dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows, or al fresco on the sunset deck with views of the harbor and marina. The bar is another option which features a full-size mahogany sloop with mast rising to the cupola or the second-floor private dining room where doors open onto a teak deck. Showcasing thirteen deluxe cottages, each featuring private outdoor terraces and spa bathtubs, we enjoy the feeling of luxury combined
East Hampton Point
with comfort. Featured at the recently renovated Palmer House, an English country-styled manor, is a king-size bed with Frette linens, high definition plasma TV, and free WiFi. Here we can enjoy a year-round full-service marina and shop, a heated outdoor swimming pool, a private tennis court, a state-of-the-art fitness room and a children’s playground. For dinner we visit the new Springs Tavern in the historic location formerly known as Wolfe’s Tavern. The new tavern features good casual food, live entertainment, and a full schedule of sports viewing. The new oak bar shows a range of sporting events on state-of-the-art HD and 4K televisions with a multi-zone eightspeaker sound system. The chef, Michael Ruggiero, brings his culinary experience from Hamptons hot spots, including Nick & Toni’s, Harvest on Fort Pond, Fresno, and Montauk Lake Club. He uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients. We start with Tavern wings with honey-bourbon sauce, followed by a Tavern steak hoagie with giardiniera, au jus, and horseradish cream. We share a final treat here: the Jackson Pollock plate with berries, pistachios, nougat, caramelized phyllo, caramel, anglaise, and fudge sauces. It is exceptionally satisfying. Sunday is a bit overcast but the Hamptons is always offers something to enjoy. We start with a full breakfast in the Bakerhouse’s charming breakfast room overlooking the English garden, and then off we go. After a little shopping, we head over to Momi Ramen, a fresh dining space which showcases fresh noodles produced in-house with a rich pork bone broth (tonkotsu broth). We start with the yasai gyoza, pan-seared vegetable dumplings with a fragrant house-recipe dipping sauce. Also we share deep-fried squid legs topped with seaweed flakes. Next, we sample the pork belly ramen bowl with bamboo shoots, scallions, shitake mushrooms, and a soft boiled egg that practically melts into the broth, making it velvety smooth and creamy. The textures are diverse and all join together to make for a rich and delightful treat. The meal is finished perfectly with green tea lava cake.
Social Life
LIFESTYLE
The Springs Tavern
On Monday, it’s time to head back. We stop at Bostwick’s Chowder House and take in the whimsical seaside-inspired décor. The outdoor area features several tables with market umbrellas for patrons to relax and enjoy the summer air while enjoying their seafood. A full bar is available, with specialty cocktails such as Bostwick Breeze with Mount Gay rum, Malibu rum, pineapple and orange juice and a splash of grenadine, or the Lily Pond lemonade with tea-infused firefly vodka. A nice selection of beers is available as well, featuring domestic and imported brews and wines by the glass as well as some wines by the bottles. We start with Manhattan clam chowder and lobster bisque, sharing bowls and savoring them. Baked stuffed clams and steamed mussels continue our feast, finished with the signature lobster roll and an order of the fried clam bellies. We note that fresh whole lobsters are offered at market price and served with corn on the cob, coleslaw, and drawn butter. Daily blackboard specials also offer fresh fish entrées such as potato crusted halibut, grilled Mako, and beyond. After all of this tasty fare what better way to end our trip then with a couple of soft-serve ice cream cones. We clink our cones together in a mock toast and offer cheers to this Hamptons season to come.
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Andrea Correale
AÇAI BOWLS: THE NEW “IT” ITEM TO SERVE AT YOUR NEXT BRUNCH So, what’s the big deal with açai? To be sure, it’s a fad that’s not fading and that’s because it truly lives up to all the hype. Why? It’s versatile, delicious, and packs a healthy punch. The açai (ah-sigh-EE) berry is the fruit of the açai palm tree. It is naturally low in sugar so you can add all the natural sweetness you would like with honey (or agave for our vegan friends out there), fresh fruit, and berries. After trying açai for the first time, you will surely want to enjoy this treat more often than you might want to admit. And that’s okay! Go ahead and eat up. Açai is a great source of fiber, heart-healthy fats, and antioxidants. For that reason, and others, you will wow the guests at your next brunch with your commitment to their health and their palate. In fact, serving anything açai these days will provide you with host bragging rights. The best part is that you can really go nuts. Add nuts, berries, various proteins, and, in particular, whatever is freshest at the local Hamptons farm stands. Your guests will thank you. About Andrea Correale and Elegant Affairs Andrea Correale is one of the finest New York caterers. She began her entrepreneurial career at the age of 16 when she created an “event staff for hire” company out of her childhood home on Long Island. Fast forward to the 21st century, Elegant Affairs, now a 15,000-square-foot facility in Glen Cove, New York, produces nearly 1,000 events per year, with Andrea as the company’s creative backbone. The go-to caterer for celebrities, corporate events, and gala fund raisers, Andrea has been featured on Bravo!, VH1, MTV, FOX, CBS, NBC, News 12 Long Island, and HGTV. Andrea is also a columnist for Hamptons Magazine, 25A Magazine (a luxury Gold Coast magazine) and Social Life Magazine. elegantaffairscaterers.com
Açai Bowls There are so many different combinations of ingredients you can use to make your açai bowl, the options are unlimited. Here is a basic recipe to start with. 1 pack açai puree (or 2 teaspoons of açai powder with 3 or 4 crushed ice cubes) 1 cup of organic frozen mixed berries 1 banana (frozen works best) 1/2 cups soy / rice / nut milk 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup for vegans Instructions and tips: Açai is easy to find, easy to buy, and easy to keep; it comes in powder or frozen packs. When using the powder, add a few ice cubes (about 3 or 4 for every 2 teaspoons of powder). Add coconut water, nut milk, or juice along with your favorite veggies and fruits. Blend until it is the consistency of soft-serve ice cream. Top with your favorite combination of granola, berries, fresh fruit, nuts, chia seeds, coconut flakes, dried fruit, and maybe even some dark chocolate or yogurt chips.
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FOOD & WINE
MARGARITA MAY . . . AND OTHER FAVORITES By Sharon Roth Aah . . . the start of summer. As we get ready for beachside yoga, endless days frolicking on sand and surf, tantalizing barbeques, and unforgettable watery sunsets — each one more magnificent than the last — we happily gear up for one of our favorite parts: the perfect summer cocktail. As May is Kentucky Derby month, it’s a good idea to ring in Memorial Day weekend with a May theme. Start with a delightfully fruity variation of the classic mint julep, ideal for pre-dinner poolside, dockside, or patio imbibing. Simple to make, and please don’t forget the crushed ice.
Blueberry Mint Julep (This is the complicated one, so you might want a bottle of wine on hand while preparing this.) 2 1/2 oz bourbon 1 oz mint simple syrup 1 oz mint blueberry puree crushed ice fresh mint leaves Mint simple syrup: 1/3 cup granulated sugar 1/3 cup water 1 bunch of mint leaves. Combine sugar, mint, and water together in a small saucepan and heat over high heat until boiling, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and cook for another minute or so, then set aside to cool completely. Remove mint before using. Blueberry mint puree: Blend 2/3 cup fresh blueberries, 2 tablespoons mint simple syrup. For the grand finale: Combine bourbon, mint simple syrup, and mint blueberry puree and shake or stir well. Pour over crushed iced, and serve with extra mint leaves.
Let’s not forget about Cinco de Mayo — no reason not to celebrate all month long! In tribute, here is an edgier, more luxurious seaside version of the classic margarita.
The Perfectomundo Oakey (That’s a mouthful, literally. Let’s just call it the Oakey.) 1 oz blood orange juice 1 oz Perfectomundo Reposado tequila 1 oz Mandarin liqueur 1/5 oz Cinque apertivo (bitter orange and gentian lutea) 1/4 oz lime juice Combine all ingredients and shake away. Garnish with your citrus of choice and enjoy. And to celebrate our Memorial Day summer kickoff, we need a Hamptons variation of something deliciously bubbly. How about a cava mojito? We love cava and it boasts a lightly tart twist.
Cava Mojito 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves 3 tablespoons super fine sugar 2 limes, cut into wedges 1 cup rum 1 bottle cold cava Put the mint, Thai basil, sugar, and lime wedges into a small glass and muddle, in batches if needed. Pour the rum into a pitcher and add the mint mixture and lots of ice. Top with the cava and pour into glasses filled with ice. Garnish prettily with fresh mint or Thai basil and drink up!
Select your libation of choice, put your toes in the sand, and toast to a long, lovely summer full of fun surprises and unexpected delights. Or just some long overdue R&R in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Happy summer 2017 to all! SocialLifeMagazine.com
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FOOD & WINE
OREYA AN EXPLOSION OF INFLUENCES, AN INFUSION OF CLASS By Blair Morgan Grossman is no stranger to the Hamptons nor the dining scene, even though he clocks in under the age of 25. In fact, he cut his teeth on the famed Georgica, which he took over when he was just 19. In shockingly short time, he’s made his mark with his new venture, an atmospheric dining experience that’s tough to come by. Think Mykonos meets St. Tropez, and you’ve got the gist. His work is paying off, with a 3-Star “Excellent” Review in the New York Times, remaining the only recipient of such a coveted title in the Hamptons. “The cuisines of storied destination restaurants around the world that deem themselves as Mediterranean are primarily based on French and Italian cuisines. Our inspiration was to incorporate significantly more Greek influence, while refining and modernizing the dishes, to create a Dining Room at OREYA, displaying works by Artists Elizabeth Sutton and Christopher Engel more engaging and fun dining experience.” he Mediterranean corner of the globe lays claim to some of the To be sure, the raw bar is to die for, and anything from the wood most flavorful and nourishing natural resources, and these are burning grill, or plancha, will leave you more than satiated. Among reflected in Greek, Italian, and French cuisines, in addition to cuisines the standouts this summer? Well, everything. However, a perfect from countless subregions along the Riviera. meal recently consisted of rouget crudo with finger lime, basil seed, Oreya’s chef and owner, Greg Grossman, brings the best of lilet, sudachi juice, vanilla, and black salt, which was off-set by the Mediterranean cuisines to his new restaurant in Southampton, reexplosion of flavor in burrata with tempura figs. opening with a completely overhauled, new and improved dining When you add in the unrivaled atmosphere (elegance, pool, room, cocktail bar, and outdoor lounge. “What we’ve achieved in DJ) what Grossman has created is a total winner. This season, the the Hamptons is a unique dining experience that sources its flavors, OREYA LOUNGE will launch in the outdoor space, bringing a and its inspiration, from one of the most magical places on Earth,” sophisticated, open-air nightlife experience to the Hamptons, besays Grossman, who opened Oreya in the middle of last summer, at ing run in partnership with famed restauranteur Frederick Lesort the Capri Hotel. “The Hamptons is on its way to becoming a foodie (Opia, Frederick’s) and Philippe Olivier Bondon, who has run destination, and we’re thrilled to be a part of that movement.” some of the most famed nightlife destinations in St Barth. Expect Grossman invested a substantial sum into reconstructing this forsexy vibes, delicious cocktails, great service, and a can’t-be-beat atmer pop-up space, creating a lasting concept that will surely thrive mosphere that will certainly prove to be the toughest door in the for years to come. After crafting a beautiful dining room and renoHamptons. Their resident DJ, Gregorio Soave, hails from Monaco, vated kitchen last season, Grossman wanted more, enlisting famed and is a resident at some of the hottest spots in London, and will architect and designer Chris Kofitsas of New World Design Buildbe spinning sexy tunes on weekend evenings for diners to dance ers (Catch LA, Toro, ABC Kitchen, Provocateur) to implement inthe night away. spiration from a trip they took together to Greece in 2015. The duo Oreya opens on May 26, and is open for lunch Monday through developed an outdoor dining and lounge space reminiscent of the Friday, dinner Wednesday through Sunday, breakfast and brunch Riviera and islands of the Aegean, creating a lounge residing under on Saturday and Sunday. a magnificent tree, with lush banquettes, a patio conjuring images For reservations, visit oreya.com, email hello@oreya.com, or call of the streets of Mykonos, and a beautiful cocktail bar. 631.500.9055.
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FOOD & WINE
STEVE CARL WHILING AWAY THE SUMMER WITH CARLYLE By Chloe Panther
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sking Steve Carl to choose his favorite Long Island venue, each exclusive in its own right, is like asking him which of his children is his favorite. He won’t give an answer because he doesn’t have one —– they are all jewels in a very glittery crown. Carl runs five of the most upscale catering venues in the region: Carlyle on the Green, Carlyle of Lawrence, Carlyle at the Palace, Carlyle at the Omni, and Carlyle off the Green. He most recently added the Carlyle Seafood Shack at Tappen Beach to his roster, and it’s quickly becoming a staple for beachgoers. With the summer upon us, we tapped Steve’s brain for a few can’t-miss options for planning an event or grabbing a bite.
CARLYLE ON THE GREEN Located at 99 Quaker Meeting House Road in Farmingdale, this venue combines the richness of Long Island’s glorious heritage with the finest service and ambiance offered in modern times. Guests can dine and rejoice in the magnificent Grand Conservatory Ballroom featuring Palladian windows overlooking a sun-drenched landscape and the world-famous Bethpage Black golf course. An expert staff of event planners, award-winning cuisine, and whiteglove service further enhance an intimate day. Whatever the special occasion, Carlyle on the Green is unequalled when it comes to a celebration of life. A meticulously restored English manor is the ideal setting for a bar/bat mitzvah, bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, or anniversary, birthday, and engagement party. Guests dance the night away on a wall-to-wall dance floor, and SocialLifeMagazine.com
Carlyle On The Green
indulge in delectable cuisine masterfully prepared by artisan chefs. Looking for a smaller sized affair? Taste 99 Restaurant on the premises is equipped to handle events with the same high quality of service.
CARLYLE OF LAWRENCE Located at 140 Central Ave in Lawrence, this jewel is one of the most majestic venues on Long Island. Guests are reminded of heaven when they celebrate a union within the stained-glass walls of the incredible gothic sanctuary. After ascending the sweeping staircase and entering through stately entry doors to the impressive avant-garde cocktail room with its full-length bar and fire-and-ice décor, guests end their night dancing beneath the illuminated crown moldings in the magnificent ballroom. Non-kosher custom catering is standard, while kosher and glatt kosher catering can be provided. Hosting only one event at a time, experienced event planners meticulously set the stage for a perfect day.
CARLYLE SEAFOOD SHACK AT TAPPEN BEACH Located at 494 Prospect Avenue in Sea Cliff, this eatery is open seven days a week through October. Carlyle’s award-winning culinary team has worked to create a menu that is perfect for a beach setting for families and couples alike. They offer a daily happy hour and special events throughout the summer. Carlyle recently opened up two other restaurants at Tobay Beach in Massapequa. Check out the marvelous Mexican cantina called Mango’s on the Bay, a marvelous Mexican cantina; and Crazy Oyster, a modern seafood restaurant. carlylecatering.com
FOOD & WINE
T-BAR @ KOZU IN SOUTHAMPTON BEST OF BOTH WORLDS By Elizabeth Darwen
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njoy the best in steaks and seafood this summer when New York’s T-Bar comes to Southampton in a new venture, T-Bar @ KOZU. Restaurateur Tony Fortuna is known for his outstanding cuisine, and he will add a new spin to this classic upscale eatery. He brings his menu favorites to Southampton this summer for a collaboration with restaurateur and 75 Main Group (AM Southampton, Hotel ZE & KOZU) owner Zach Erdem. The duo will delight diners with certified Black Angus steakhouse favorites such as filet mignon, aged NY strip, prime aged bone-in rib eye, or Black Angus porterhouse. All steaks come with a selection of sauces, such as steak sauce, Béarnaise sauce and poivre sauce. Other delectable dishes include the T-Bar salad with heart of palm, green beans, tomatoes and cucumber, chicken Milanese, and the vegan spring gemelli pasta with asparagus, peas, pumpkin seeds, and mint pesto. A selection of sushi and fresh seafood dishes will be offered, including the tiger shrimp cocktail with cocktail sauce and lemon,
the yellowfin tuna tartar with soy, ginger, and sesame seeds, and the Kozu roll with unagi and avocado, topped with foie gras and caviar for starters. Among the entrees, seafood specials include crusted tuna with soy, wasabi, and seaweed salad, and Chilean sea bass with bok choy, ginger, and soy glaze. Aside from the delectable dishes, the restaurant’s chic décor will attract diners to the restaurant’s elegant atmosphere, featuring scorched ash tables, dark wooden floors and white walls covered in colorful artwork by Raphael Mazzucco. Fresh flowers and soft lighting add a sense of luxury. The restaurant also offers a private dining area for parties of 20+ prior to 10 pm. Dinner is served daily from 6 pm to midnight. T-Bar @ KOZU 136 Main Street, Southampton kozuhampton.com/restaurant 631.619.6660 Social Life
FOOD & WINE
MONTAUK BEVERAGEWORKS TEA TIME IN MONTAUK (AND BEYOND) By Jacob Puck
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f there’s one thing that sets the Hamptons apart, it’s the residents’ and even the visitors’ commitment to supporting local businesses. When dining in the Hamptons, you can count on only the freshest ingredients, picked up from a local farm or purchased at one of the Hamptons many farm stands. Residents and visitors alike seek not only the freshest of what the Hamptons has to offer, but more and more, they want to ensure that they are contributing to the local economy, and doing so in a way that’s eco-friendly. This summer, Montauk BeverageWorks will undoubtedly be at the top of everyone’s list, not just because it’s a business providing a healthconscious product, but also because the company takes its commitment to sustainability very seriously. But, let’s get to that in a minute. “We have recently expanded westward to New York City and New Jersey and that will be a great thing not only for the company but most importantly for our customers who are discovering us at the East End and want to be able to find our products once they return home,” said Jessica Lukas, the marketing coordinator. “We are very excited, and looking forward to expanding our reach.” By now, you probably are well aware of the tasty, all natural, reducedsugar and low-calorie iced teas and lemonade produced by Montauk BeverageWorks. All of their beverages also happen to be kosher certified. What are our favorites? Well, it depends on the occasion. But, let’s just say that if you want to add some “spirit” to your juice, check out these two winners:
MONTAUK LEMONADE Described as perfectly sweet, perfectly tart, Montauk Beverageworks’ lemonade combines the two-flavor profiles that result in the perfect refreshing drink. Made with real lemon juice and cane sugar with 80 calories per serving, this delectable beverage is the ultimate year-round thirst quencher.” It also goes great with Tito’s!
RED BERRY HIBISCUS “The rich red color of this delectable beverage comes courtesy of brewed hibiscus petals, an herbal tisane that is caffeine free. A touch of rose hips and berry flavors enhance the floral notes of the hibiscus, and a touch of cane sugar gives the beverage a very modest 20 calories per serving.” A dash of dark rum? You won’t be disappointed! Other flavors offered by Montauk Beverageworks are black tea, which includes a citrus flavor for the true tea lover and low-sugar half & half with no high fructose corn syrup and no aftertaste; a green tea with honey, which is an herbal favorite of our health enthusiasts; and SocialLifeMagazine.com
a white tea with a splash of peach — a gold color and light flavor (it is a personal favorite of Roger, of WBAB’s Morning Show, The Roger & JP Show). Coming June 1 is a black tea with orange clementine. Although the company is clearly focused on what’s in the bottle, the strive for perfection is also driven by the need for environmental sustainability. Concerned about the use of Bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical used in the manufacturing of polycarbonate plastics, the company is steadfast in its commitment to its customers, and for this reason it avoids harmful chemicals and continues to use glass instead of plastic. Last year the average American used 167 disposable plastic bottles, but only recycled 38, with the rest ending up filling our landfills and oceans with poisonous materials. Montauk Beverageworks’ Michael White was advised that he could save 15¢ to 25¢ per bottle by using plastic. After consideration, Michael decided that no amount of savings was worth polluting the environment and that the company would remain true to its stated mission of providing beverages to its health-conscious consumers. “Let’s face it, beverages taste better when bottled in glass. It’s a purer, less adulterated taste devoid of any decomposing material which would alter the intended flavor of your beverage, or even poison it,” says Montauk Beverageworks. So dig deep down for that extra 15¢ or even 25¢ if it should come to that . . . save yourself, save your children, save our environment. montaukbev.com
ERIC FISCHL By Eve Xanthopoulos
Eve Xanthopoulos always had a passion for art and completed a coveted internship at the Marian Goodman Gallery. From voraciously learning about the artists and their work to curating homes of art lovers, she proceeded to create her own company, The Xanth Group, where she privately advises and curates art for her clientele. Aside from working closely as a business manager for legendary artist Chuck Close, Eve spends her time as an author, philanthropist, art advisor, and entrepreneur. Her range of interests extend across continents and issues including health, the arts, the environment, and children.
You are much celebrated now, but how important was the education you had and the classmates you were around? Cal Arts was the hottest art school in North America at that time. It was brand new. Opened its doors in 1970 and because of a lot of hype and publicity, it attracted a lot of precocious art students who wanted to be a part of that vision and energy.
I was one of those students. The scene was crazy, experimental, competitive, and exciting. It made us feel special and gave us a belief in our ambitions as well as instilled a sense of responsibility to live up to our own expectations. So many of my classmates went on to impact the art world in the 1980s. Artists like David Salle, Ross Bleckner, Barbara Bloom, Matt Mullican, Jack Goldstein, Troy Brauntuch, James Welling. And that was just in the visual arts. The school represented all the arts and produced important practitioners in music, theater, film, dance, and design as well. You and April Gornick — your artist wife — met in Nova Scotia. What were you doing there? I met April Gornik while teaching at Nova Scotia College of Art and Design, in 1975. April was finishing her BFA. We fell in love and have been together since. April is an extraordinary painter of landscapes. Not your run-of-the-mill pictorial genre scenes, April’s paintings are about the power and force of nature as metaphors for emotions and psychology.
Eric Fischl, Self Portrait with April Gornik at the Beach, 1983
Mary Boone was your dealer for 30 years; can you tell us something about that? Mary Boone was the dealer who took my career to the top. She was deeply committed to my work, to my vision, and she worked tirelessly to promote it and place it. She always made sure I had what I needed so I could focus on my practice. As a young artist trying to figure out the complexity of a career as well as trying to follow my muse, it was very important to have Mary in my corner. Social Life
ART
morality and behavior were issues that required investigation. My work is about love, desire, need, intimacy, and boundaries. None of it is reckless, wanton, anti-social, or morally bankrupt. What became identified as edgy was simple honesty. You are rarely in New York City these days; what has caused you to retreat to the East End? You reach an age and a stage in your life and career where the things that inspired, encouraged, chafed, and engaged you are no longer doing it for you. They have become irritants or distractions. You reach a point where you realize you don’t have time for this shit. Are your Hamptons friends the same people you knew in the city, or have you built a different kind of community out here? I have both art and art-world friends who live out here as well as in the city, and I have non-artist friends who are very much a part of the village life. What emerging artists are you excited about? There are so many. They aren’t moving the needle yet, but they are artists with unique and compelling visions. To name a few: Amy Bennett, Christian Johnson, Gideon Ruben, Cathrine Tafur, John O’Reilly, Chie Shimizu.
Eric Fischl, Portrait of the Artist at Mid-Career, 1991
I don’t understand young artists wanting to be in sole control of all the business of art. It is distracting and boring. It is also an illusion to believe you can control all aspects of the work and the market. I’d rather pay someone to do all that stuff. You are known for being a bad boy, and your works are controversial. What do you think about that? The idea of me as a bad boy is a joke. I got that tag because I titled a painting Bad Boy — which was an ironic title to begin with — and soon it became a popular epithet. But having said that, every artist has to find a way to get their work noticed. Usually that will involve doing something that disrupts the system, confronts prevailing norms, creates noise. My early work revealed fissures in the social fabric where our sense of values had become worn out. The questions surrounding SocialLifeMagazine.com
SOLO EXHIBITION through June 24 Eric Fischl LATE AMERICA Skarstedt 550 West 21 Street
ART
EDSEL WILLIAMS THE FIREPLACE PROJECT By Randy Scott
Successful young artists are doing second shows with you. Do they say why they are loyal to you? Artists, like myself, love the space and the idea of showing in such an art historically rich place as the Springs. [note: Jackson Pollock’s home/studio is across the street.] You have had the most progressive shows in the Hamptons. What was your concept when you first opened the gallery? Basically very simple: to put on well-curated solo and group shows out East. Did you have to adjust for a transient summer clientele? Yes, I’ve played multi times with figuring out the optimal number of shows to do and whether or not to focus more on New York City-based artists. I’m now at three shows per season and primarily New York City-based artists. That’s proved to be the quotient.
Do you do deal in art works that had previously been owned? Not through the Project, but a little with my private clients. More buying than selling, but both happen. What’s your line-up for this summer? First is 9999, a group show with nothing over $10,000, beginning Saturday, June 11. It was a huge success last summer, and it’s a great kick to the season. Second is Jonah Freeman and Justin Lowe, who collaborate. This begins Saturday, July 15. The third is Justin Adian, beginning on Saturday, August 19. Social Life
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JOEL MESLER RENTAL GALLERY By Randy Scott
For nearly fifteen years you’ve been a bellwether in the art gallery scene, having had galleries on the Lower East Side and Los Angeles: Untitled, Rental, and Feuer/Mesler. You’re known for discovering young artists who have become well known. What’s in store for this first foray into East Hampton with your new Rental Gallery? Our opening show on May 27th will be a great selection of nearly 50 artists I have worked with previously. Rashid Johnson will curate our second show, focused on color painting. Partly younger artists influenced by Rachid’s work, and a grouping of older artists that have influenced him. Rest of the season will be solo and two-person shows with artists Matthew Chambers, Zachary Armstrong, Henry Taylor, Elsa Hansen, and Geoff McFetridge. SocialLifeMagazine.com
I was told Meredith Darrow, the renowned art advisor, will join forces with you for part of the summer. What’s that about? Meredith and her director of Darrow Contemporary, Ben Godsill, will curate a show of very special secondary market works, on our second floor in early July. Their reach is so impressive and it will be great to see such works exhibited on the East End. Are you approaching the programing differently from previous ventures? Yes, Rental Gallery will not represent artists exclusively, which I have done previously. This venture is nimble, and I think fit for the fast-paced times we are living in now. I look forward to seeing how it does evolve over the years.
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TERRIE SULTAN DIRECTOR OF THE PARRISH ART MUSEUM By Amy Purssey
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errie Sultan, the director of the Parrish Art Museum, has spearheaded programs at the Hamptons institution for nine years. In this interview we discuss the museum’s upcoming fifth anniversary in the new building, the importance of working with the local community, and the role women play in today’s art world. What is it about the Hamptons that inspires artists? Many reference the quality of the light here in the Hamptons as being the inspiration for generations of artists who came here to work. That was certainly true for the late-nineteenth century artists such as William Merritt Chase and Winslow Homer who began to come here when the railroad was extended from New York city to Southamtpon. Once artists establish a destination, others follow. Artists like Jackson Pollock, Larry Rivers, and Willem de Kooning were drawn here because it was possible to find studio and living conditions much less expensive than in the city, yet in a location that was still close enough to maintain roots in the New York art scene. Thus the community grew. This year you are celebrating your fifth anniversary. Yes, we opened the new building here in Water Mill in November, 2012. It has been transformational both institutionally for the Parrish itself but also, I believe, for this community. By working with the architects Herzog and de Meuron, we really did something that
I think is very special here. We managed to design a state-of-theart museum facility with all the back-of-the-house elements needed to function, such as art storage, climate control, and loading dock, while also focusing on creating an experience where visitors can come and gain an understanding of why the East End of Long Island has, since the late 19th century, been a magnet for the best and the brightest of America’s creative community. Our tag line is “Art. Illuminated,” and this is the guiding principle of our programming: to provide opportunities to see and experience master works that encourage innovating and transformational thinking. For the museum these past five years have been an amazing trajectory of growth and development. Our services to the community are diverse: from working with the local schools to presenting performances, seminars, lectures, and films to developing inspiring exhibitions and installations of the permanent collection. It has been almost breathtaking to think about the work we have done and the people we have touched. What exhibitions do you have coming up? John Graham: Maverick Modernist will be on view through July 30. Graham was a key figure in American art history, who is represented in many important art museum collections in this country, but who has not really received the appropriate attention that he deserves. Social Life
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This exhibition will be the first major survey of his work in some thirty years. It brings together major works that represent the full trajectory of his career. It’s going to be visually compelling. Opening concurrently with our Midsummer Party this July, we will launch Clifford Ross: Light|Waves as part of our Platform series that we present every year, inviting artists to respond to the architecture of the building, the permanent collection, or the landscape. Later in the summer we will present From Lens to Eye to Hand: Photorealism 1969 to Today. To celebrate our fifth anniversary, we will reinstall all seven of the permanent collection galleries, featuring many new acquisitions in a series of exhibitions focused on particular themes or solo shows of artists who are key to the art historical legacy of the East End. Did this wonderful new building affect how you formed ideas for the program? The most important impact that constructing the new building had on the institutional focus was the increase of exhibition space from the 4,500 square feet of galleries in the original building in the village of Southampton to the 12,500 we now have. Here we can present temporary exhibitions simultaneously with installations from the collection. This means we can create a very interesting dialogue between special exhibitions and the permanent collection. That was a huge change for us. Temporary exhibitions change over three or four times a year, while the collection galleries stay on view for a full twelve months. This provides opportunities for school teachers to integrate works for discussion with their classes throughout the year. We have a dedicated studio that enables us to hold art classes, not only for children but for adults as well. And we have fourteen acres of natural meadow landscape, giving us opportunities to delve into programs that address the relationship between art and nature. That sounds like quite an impressive program that you have going on. It is quite astonishing what a small, but dedicated team can produce. We present a special program every Friday, for 52 nights of the year — either in the theatre, the galleries, or on the terrace. We have a classical piano concerts, jazz on the terrace, documentary films, speakers about artists and their creativity. Our program is very diverse, very compelling, and sometimes overwhelming for the staff! You mentioned you work with local schools? We’re deeply embedded in the school system. We work with the schools in Southampton, Bridgehampton, and SocialLifeMagazine.com
Sag Harbor, to name a few. We have ongoing collaborations with the schools both in their classrooms and here at the museum: community outreach efforts, after school art programs, summer camps, and workshops. We initiated an artist residency program three years ago, inviting artists to work one-onone with the students. Annually we present the Student Exhibition, which features works by hundreds of elementary and high school students. That’s a really fun and optimistic project. Do you believe art has the power to change people’s lives? I believe that absolutely, and I think that it comes in a lot of different ways. It comes through the transcendent experience of actually seeing a master work of art. The Parrish is the go-to place for meaningful engagement with works of art for many in our area who otherwise wouldn’t have this kind of access. The opportunities for young people to meet and interact with professional artists is life changing. Even if they’re not going to be artists, working in this way gives them skills in communication, creative problem-solving, and visual literacy — all the things that one needs in order to live the best possible, full life. You are a powerhouse woman in the art world. What are your thoughts on women’s equality in the art world: are we getting closer to smashing that glass ceiling? I certainly benefited from my own experience when I started my professional career in New York in the mid-1980s, working under the watchful eye of Marcia Tucker at the New Museum of Contemporary Art. At that time there were few female art museum directors. Marcia and the few of her female colleagues established the subgroup, or ‘affinity group’ of women art museum directors at the annual Association of Art Museum Directors conferences in order to share challenges and successes. The glass ceilings, the lack of equity in pay, and the increased difficulty for fundraising were all topics that specifically resonated with that group. A few years ago, the women art museum directors affinity group decided to disband at AAMD meetings because there are so many more of us now that our concerns are more global and less gender-specific. I would say that I am the product of my predecessors’ hard work, those who mentored young women and helped them advance in their careers. In my position I definitely pay that forward. The more young people I can mentor the better — that includes both men and women. There is still a glass ceiling that is slowly being cracked. There are many more women heading up museums at all levels all across the country. We are making progress. I have one of the best jobs in the world. I have the opportunity to work with world-class architects, designers, and incredible artists. It’s life-changing, being able to do that.
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15 MINUTES WITH
MEL KENDRICK By Amy Purssey
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n this interview with Mel Kendrick, the artist discusses the inspiration behind his work, the tech side of the art world, and his upcoming projects.
word — but who thinks what we had then, we don’t have now. Even the people who weren’t there believe that there was something then that we don’t have now.
What is your background and where do you find fuel for your work? I came to New York when I was 23 years old and immersed myself among other artists, but I was definitely the kid — I wasn’t their equal. I saw myself as almost the fly on the wall watching the professionals. I really didn’t have a gallery until John Weber gallery, which was one that I admired. It took ten years to secure my first show in New York, and in the meantime, I’d do the odd jobs — from construction work to assisting other artists. I was always in and around the art world; it just wasn’t the commercial world that we recognize today. PS1, Clock Tower, the Drawing Center are very nostalgic places for me. I can’t think of anyone from that artist community who isn’t nostalgic. Perhaps nostalgic isn’t the right
What is it that changed that community? Why was it so different back then? There’re so many different places you can point to. New York was a challenge in itself, the state of the city: the garbage, the graffiti, and the crime. Everybody was in SoHo; TriBeCa didn’t even exist. SoHo was this sort of ageist ghetto. Everyone was in their twenties, and on Saturdays you’d go to openings and end up at big lofts with fascinating people. I think the commercial quality of the art world kept on changing to the point where now collectors just look at the price on the internet or in magazines — it’s all about money. There are numerous reasons, but those are probably the top ones. The thing is, being an artist wasn’t as acceptable then. It was really your own decision and you weren’t supported by society in the same way Social Life
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that you are today. That’s what got me to New York in the first place — I didn’t know where else to go. What was it about Hunter College that caught your attention? The people teaching there: Tony Smith and Bob Morris. I’d never heard of Hunter before so I didn’t feel like I was going to a classy college, but it was a college where all these great teachers taught. There was a very loose program. They didn’t even have studios, so each week you’d go to somebody’s apartment. I shared a loft with two other people. It was more the people I’d read about that motivated me to go. How did your surroundings both at Hunter and New York in general inspire you creatively? At Hunter, there were two tiers of people. A lot of people were getting Master’s degrees. And on the other hand, I remember my first class with Bob Morris, where probably two thirds of the class didn’t have a clue who he was, and the other third latched onto him: that’s why we were there. What’s your take on this present day, tech environment? How does it affect you and your work? I’m not fighting it. I make everything myself. I remember showing some sculptures to Frank Stella and he said I could do this on the computer. I was surprised. He was ahead of me. There’s something very human in my work, and I still use the concept of fractals. There are things there that could be done differently; I think that I waste more time in the studio in front of the computer screen than anywhere else. The aesthetic I employ does not apply to everyone else. People will always make art in the way that they want to make it. This is a totally valid way of making work, whether it’s with your hands or 3D printing. Teaching sculpture became mixed media. I was initially pissed as it seemed as though they were taking it away from me. I remember so clearly one day at school a student had done two bodies of work — one was done very cleverly on the computer, probably using Photoshop, but the other drawings were done by hand and they were kind of sketchy and crude, as if she was trying to get at something. I couldn’t stand in front of the Photoshopped ones. Each year you see the new tricks with technology, but the drawings meet the audience halfway: it creates a conversation. The computer programs can become a barrier to that. What exciting projects are you working on? I have my show at the Drawing Center coming up in July — that’s still coming together. I have another show approaching in September, with works on paper with David Nolan, my gallery here in New SocialLifeMagazine.com
York. I’ve been looking back at old works and I feel that sometimes you just have to work sideways. I’m really trying to bring the ideas together and observe what I’ve done until I can’t stand it anymore and I have to make something! Sometimes I think: Man, I was a genius, why didn’t I continue with that? or I’ll look at other pieces that aren’t as interesting. I have found a number of things that I literally don’t remember making; some good, some bad. That’s interesting to me. Some feel boring and others are open and I get excited to see them again. At the moment looking back feels right. Can you tell us something about work you’ve done for a public space? I work in a studio, so I’m used to a set area. When I did the group concrete pieces, I showed them in Madison Park and I learnt a whole new thing. I think public art is always very difficult because it has to function on two levels. You have to draw people in who would never go to a museum, who don’t know who you are. If you achieve that and stick with the ideas that really interest you, it really clicks. Approaching public art isn’t trying to please people, but if you manage to create something that transcends those audiences then it’s really fantastic. People became immersed in the concrete pieces. It was very gratifying and I’d love to do more. That was a very well-organized organization. Do outside influences ever limit you? Limitations are the way I work. I think that artists have these restrictive rules on how to do something. You can often think you’ve broken the rule and fear someone will see it. I really believe in seeing things not just conceptually, but having an idea and creating it. Things change, so you have to deal with it, and that’s what keeps me entertained. It’s a very personal thing.
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MARGO SELSKI PAINTED THEATERS OF DESIRE By Lily Miles
Milkweed Mermaid’s Butterfly Mission, 2016, 30 in. x 40 in., oil on canvas
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he imaginary worlds depicted in Margo Selski’s paintings hang in the balance between old and new, comfortable and uncomfortable, safe and unsafe. Her canvases are filled with a cast of characters, including mothers, young girls, queens, Victorian debutantes, and flora and fauna — players in a theatre of desire. The vivid images lead viewers on what she calls an “emotional labyrinth” from the stable and content to a place of instability and melancholia. Her novel technique of using beeswax on her oil paintings to create surface cracks achieves an old (or even outside of time) effect, allowing her images to float between the now, past, and future. She paints from her artist studio located in a quiet but urban corner of St. Paul, on the top floor of a historical building that overlooks
the Mississippi River. From her studio window, she peers out over a bridge and Union Depot built by her ancestors. This summer, Selski’s solo exhibition Suspension of Disbelief opens June 24 at the RJD Gallery, Bridgehampton. The gallery is the perfect home for her hauntingly beautiful creations. RJD Gallery specializes in contemporary art with a focus on narrative realism, photorealistic portraiture, surrealism, and figurative art. After its former space next to the Sag Harbor Cinema was destroyed in December, the RJD Gallery reopened on Main Street. In the interview, Selski takes us inside her creative process and reveals how despite their phantasmagorical quality, her paintings are, at their core, intensely autobiographical. Social Life
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How do you come up with the characters in your paintings? I refer to some of my characters as natives from my imagination, and others are immigrants. Immigrant characters come from childhood stories or fairy tales — like my character of Little Red who came from Little Red Riding Hood. A native is a character derived from my imagination, created from myriad things that are familiar to me. When characters meet and interact, the line between a native and an immigrant character gets blurry over time. What are the themes you explore in your paintings? My work is focused upon the theme of balance between binary poles. It examines the tension between opposites, in both the substantive thematic territory of my work and its formal aspects. I capture moments of transition in order to freeze them in time so they can be analyzed by myself and ultimately the viewer. My work is neither entirely classical nor entirely contemporary, neither entirely realistic nor entirely fantastical, neither entirely familiar nor entirely alien. What kind of emotional journey do you believe viewers experience when they look at your paintings? By using a safe and familiar composition, my goal is to lull the viewer into a false sense of comfort and familiarity, where they are drawn to images which, upon further viewing, become curious, uncomfortable, and perhaps even dangerous. I offer to the viewer my imagination, a bastion of myths, and metaphors of my idiosyncrasies, fears, hopes, and desires. Viewers get to take a journey and find their own interpretation. You have called your paintings intensely autobiographical. Could you elaborate on this? The paintings deal quite explicitly with secrets from my own childhood in small-town, lower-middle-class Kentucky, as well as my life’s journey. I chose to paint in a style that quotes Flemish painting and nineteenth-century society portraiture so that no one depicted in my paintings would ever suspect these paintings were about them. This tension between the distant and the deeply personal, between discretion and confession, is another example of the theme of balance in my work. Is there a character in literature you most identify with? I find myself similar to the character Prospero in Shakespeare’s last play, The Tempest. Like Prospero, who had an island, I colonize my paintings with an ornate cast of characters. I use this cast like a theater of desire. They literally inhabit my imagination. My paintings are like a silent opera where the characters have something coming out of their mouths, but you can’t hear it. I have always liked the closing line of The Tempest: Prospero turns to the audience after weaving a complex and somewhat confusing scenario, not unlike a surreal painting, and requests, “Let your indulgences set me free.” SocialLifeMagazine.com
Little Red: Sizing Up the Enemy, 2015, 40 in. x 30 in. oil on canvas
Could you give us a glimpse into your creative process? I spend most of my time painting, often working on three paintings at a time. The easels face each other so I see a connection between paintings, as if each is having a conversation with the next, solving compositional concerns. How do your emotions come to life through your paintings? When a valuable experience or emotion, such as desire comes to mind, I like to stretch it and amplify the moment by fitting it to a visual narrative — an imaginary scenario that accentuates the emotion I wish to savor. The imagery allows me to not only revisit the heightened emotion but to anticipate a hopeful future, while always being mindful that the outcome is a mystery. What is one way you have evolved as an artist since you began your classical training in college and grad school? In college and grad school, I was an installation artist. Thinking back, I was creating the stage sets allowing the work to inform my future paintings. In 1999, I transitioned fully into oil painting and I appreciate and enjoy the ability of this form of art.
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The Training Session, 2017, 30 in. x 40 in. oil and beeswax on canvas
The Sailor and the Desiring Soul, 2016, 30 in. x 40 in., oil on canvas
Does a painting change depending on your mood or environment? I had an idea for a painting during a new relationship. The siren on the left of the painting embodied my experience with infatuation. I’m the character on the right in armor and kept safe in the boat. As I painted and life happened, the painting changed. A concert pianist practiced next door and the siren gained an instrument. My three children had to leave to go to Washington State without me for a holiday, and I was without them for the first time. I began painting tears in the form of water drops. Over a period of time, the tears became the water dripping from the mermaid. Do your paintings ever surprise you? Sometimes I’ll do a painting about my experience with another person. Halfway through I’ll realize that the judgment I am making about that person is actually magnifying a characteristic in myself. All of a sudden, as I’m painting, I’m thinking about solving personal problems, reasoning things out, and realizing things about myself that I hadn’t noticed. Have you had a vivid imagination since your childhood? I grew up in a very dysfunctional family. When I was five years old, I started school and I really wanted to fit in. I knew I had to make things up in order to fit in because it would be too hard to just be with what I perceived as normal boys and girls. I made things up to protect the people in my life, to keep their privacy. Later as I matured and grew emotionally, I learned that there is no normalcy, and we all are juggling emotions and states of mind.
Maiden Flight, 2016, 40 in. x 30 in., oil on canvas
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ART FROM THE CREATIVE UNCONSCIOUS AND THE PAINTINGS OF MARGO SELSKI By Bonnie Zindel
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ur imagination dwells in our creative unconscious, the place where the raw material of life, nature, dissociated parts of ourselves, myths, and literature transform into something original. In my book Writing on the Moon: Stories and Poetry from the Creative Unconscious, I talk about the creative unconscious as the estuary of the unknown and the doorway to our originality. It can surface when we least expect it and translate chaos and feelings from our body into poetry, music, and paintings. Here is the Holy Grail, the wordless and mysterious place, the center of our vitality. Creativity lives in all of us, but some can harness it more easily than others. They have the freedom to enter their own space with their unique language. Whether visual and imagistic, musical, or kinesthetic, an artist picks up on his or her dominant sense and uses it in artistic expression. The most dominant sense becomes the voice of creative expression and how the artist takes in the world. Margo’s language is her strong visual sense. She uses images, characters, and mythical beasts to express her rich fantasy and imaginative world. She freely dips into the creative unconscious with all its playfulness and mystery, often surprising even herself as she connects with feelings of joy, loneliness, and sadness. She presents a narrative on canvas, and it often contains parts of her own story and desires. The paintings pull at emotions. Then, she lets go and we, the viewers, take in the images and make them our own. The artist and the viewer need each other. We unconsciously talk to each other through art and that communication taps into a universal humanness. Bonnie Zindel is a psychoanalyst in private practice in New York. She is the author of Writing on the Moon: Stories and Poetry from the Creative Unconscious by Psychoanalysts and Others (Karnac).
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SAMEERA SULLIVAN TAKING IT OFFLINE FOR RELATIONSHIP SUCCESS By Tina Travers process that makes sense to find ideal matches, I give feedback after every date, stay in the middle to coach, and go back to them and help them make it work.” Social Life wanted to learn more. How did you get into this business? Believe it or not, after obtaining two Master’s degrees, I was planning to start a school for children with neurological differences. That was 2009 and the economy was horrible, so the plan was sidetracked. I ended up going into recruiting for the aerospace and defense industry, working with top notch companies trying to fill very niche positions, but at the end of the day it was boring and not very creative. Finally, I was recruited to work for a dating agency and, through that, learned that there was a major need in the industry for an agency that offered something extra. And what is that something extra? Most people need coaching. It’s not just about matchmaking. When you get into a relationship, there are a lot of communication issues, and other issues, that come up. A matchmaker should help the new couple learn to communicate effectively and maintain that relationship over the long term. It’s not a one and done; it’s a commitment that requires a lot of navigation and that’s what’s included in the package.
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ameera Sullivan, the founder of Lasting Connections, has heard it all before: Match.com is a time suck and ultimately a total letdown. Tinder is for toddlers. Grindr, well, if you think that’s gonna get you the person of your dreams, folks, you’ve got another thing coming. And bars? Forget it. Sameera’s journey to matchmaking is somewhat fantastical. What began as a career aspiration to help young people with disabilities eventually blossomed into one of the premier matchmaking agencies in the country, and one that is definitely needed, because unfortunately not every online encounter ends in the vein of You’ve Got Mail. In fact, says Sameera, the advent of technology has only made finding Mr or Ms Right even trickier. “Once you’ve met someone, there’s no app that will help you navigate all the issues that come up, or provide you with the coaching you need to really make it work,” says Sameera, who started Lasting Connections in 2012. “In addition to providing an exhaustive search
Who is your typical client? In general, it’s mostly elite men who are successful and incredibly busy. So, they need help with everything. These guys really need coaching. Not everyone needs to spend $45,000 on matchmaking, but the people who really need it tend to run in certain circles.They have a certain lifestyle, and often have just come out of a marriage, and need someone to help them with the process of finding a new love. Sometimes they are vulnerable, sometimes they are rusty, and the last thing they want is to end up with a gold digger or someone who totally doesn’t match their lifestyle. How do you maintain quality control? I keep it simple. I take fewer than 10 clients per quarter so that I can ensure a complete, hands-on approach. It sounds like a real investment for life. It is, and people get what they pay for! lastingconnections.net Social Life
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SACH D. CHOPRA MANHATTANITES IN THE HAMPTONS By Anthony Giampetruzzi
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ach D. Chopra, a New York City marketing executive who has managed iconic brands, shares what he loves most about the Hamptons. Given his passion for building brands, Sach has a natural ability for identifying trends as well as identifying compelling people, places, and things. Are there trends unique to the Hamptons? I find great cross-pollination between Manhattan and the Hamptons. As a marketer, I believe the Hamptons offers an effective and efficient way to target influencers and to reach millennials. After all, the Hamptons features cuisine, high fashion, and real estate, where branding plays a key role in purchase decisions. What town out East suits your personality best? I typically stay in Southampton, although I have a tremendous appreciation for Bridgehampton and Sag Harbor. These towns have more of a country feel and less of the commercial influences of the city, which is why I enjoy visiting them. Summer in the Hamptons is a culinary mecca. What are some of your preferred restaurant picks? My tradition when I arrive in the Hamptons is to have lunch at Bobby Van’s: usually the calamari, a lobster roll, or a club sandwich. When I go to East Hampton, Nick & Toni’s is a classic dinner spot and, of course, drinks at Gurney’s overlooking the water in Montauk is a favorite. There are so many great options in the different towns. In Southampton, I like the Golden Pear for breakfast, Kozu for sushi, Oreya for drinks, and La Parmigiana for a nice Barolo and pasta. In Bridgehampton Pierre’s for dinner. In Sag Harbor, I like the Beacon, and for sushi I like Sen. What is special about the Hamptons to you? I enjoy getting away from the city with my favorite people and spending time in a place that is majestic and quaint. The Hamptons has so much to offer in terms of history, topography, and nature as well as all the indulgences one could want. Do you come to the Hamptons only in the summer? While I typically spend time out East in the summer months, I really enjoy the Hamptons during the off-season as well. SocialLifeMagazine.com
Spring and fall are beautiful and winter can be incredibly charming. It’s nice not to have to fight crowds, reservations, and traffic to have some downtime with family and friends. What are some of your go-to evening activities in the Hamptons? This summer I am sponsoring St. Barths Hamptons on July 22, which will be a fun and social evening. I also sponsor the Hampton Classic horse show to help raise money for equine charities. Other local causes I support include Southampton Hospital and the Sag Harbor Food Pantry — causes that I feel very strongly about. Favorite beach? I enjoy biking to Coopers beach in Southampton. This is a beautiful and scenic way to spend the day and get some exercise. And the waterfront homes are magnificent.
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HAMPTONS EMPLOYMENT AGENCY HOW GOOD HELP CAN BE EASY TO FIND By Brody Todd
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ore and more, the Hamptons set is finding that good help is, well, easy to find . . . if you work with the right agency. Those in the know almost always turn to Hamptons Employment Agency, the premier agency for all domestic staffing needs. What sets them apart? Among other things, a personal approach, meticulous screening, and a leader who insists on being hands-on. Aleksandra Kardwell, the president of Hamptons Employment Agency, reveals below how to better understand her sterling brand, just what sets it apart, and a little about how she personally gives back. What is the advantage of going through your agency rather than looking for domestic help on a web site like Craigslist or job wanted ads? Looking for potential domestic staff through online job sites is often a time-consuming, hit-or-miss process. Our main advantage is that we present a shortlist of strong, thoroughly screened candidates to employers. Our clients’ time is highly valuable, and we do the work for them to find the right staff member based on their specific needs and preferences. We carefully screen and interview candidates, check their references, and run formal background checks to create each client’s candidate list. Do you do both short-term and long-term help? Yes, we specialize in placing one-time, seasonal, and year-round staff. Some of the positions that we frequently help employers fill include servers and bartenders for parties; chefs for one-day or multi-day events; summer housekeepers and chefs; and full-time, year-round housekeepers, domestic couples, managers, chefs, personal assistants, and nannies. We also specialize in providing administrative staff for businesses and sales associates for retail stores.
What sort of personal touch do you bring to your clients? While we have offices in Southampton, Manhattan, and Boca Raton, we remain a boutique staffing agency at heart, and we maintain highly personalized relationships with our clients. As HEA’s owner, I find that oftentimes clients like to work with me directly, or have access to me, and I am eager to be personally involved with clients. I also personally interview the candidates in our Southampton and New York offices, and I am involved with interviewing in our Boca Raton location as well. The number one priority for my team is to provide an exceptional experience for clients and domestic professionals, and we work hard to do what it takes to meet that goal. What is the strangest request you’ve ever gotten? The oddest request that we’ve received was probably a request for someone to stand by the side of the road on 27 East and hold a sign that had “Follow Us on Instagram” info on it for the client’s company. That certainly was not a typical placement for us, but we are happy to help all clients, even those who have unusual needs. You are active in the community. Can you tell us about that? I am involved with a number of organizations in the community, such as the Southampton Rotary Club and the East End Women’s Network. I am also on the planning committees for local fundraising events, including the Parrish Art Museum’s Spring Fling, the American Heart Association’s Hamptons Heart Ball, and St. Jude’s Hope in the Hamptons. I’ve always felt that it is important for me to stay engaged with the community and to give back to the area. hamptonsemployment.com Social Life
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LOIS ROBBINS ON STAGE WITH LOIS ROBBINS By Lizabeth Zindel
Lois Robbins with her two dogs, photographed by Taylor Jewell
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lthough Lois Robbins has an extensive career in film and television, she says one of the greatest highlights of her career happened in the theater. During the 2011 Off-Broadway revival of Catcus Flower, Robbins portrayed Stephanie, the part played by Lauren Bacall in the original production. While in rehearsals, Robbins read Bacall’s biography to learn about her experience playing the same role. Robbins also learned that Bacall, the wife and sometimes co-star of the late Humphrey Bogart, lived at The Dakota and loved certain foods from Zabar’s. “I found out that she was not feeling well, so I went to Zabar’s and filled a basket of her favorite foods,” Robbins said. “I dropped it off at The Dakota with a note telling her how excited I was to reprise a role that she had done, that I was such an admirer, and that I hoped she would get to see it.” In the days following, Robbins received a thank-you note from the legendary actress. “I will cherish that note my whole life. Bacall wrote that she was touched that I thought of her and that she wished she could come see the show but unfortunately was in a wheelchair and it would not be possible,” Robbins remembered. This summer, Robbins returns to the theater, but this time as an actress and a playwright. Her one-woman play, L.O.V.E.R (baring it all!) premieres at The Schoolhouse Theater in Croton Falls, New York, on June 9 and runs through June 25. The play tells the story of a sophisticated and funny woman’s journey from childhood to adulthood, as she explores her sexual history and charts the unexpected course that ultimately leads her to discovering herself. Robbins’s inspiration to write the play came from an unexpected source. “I had started to write a book and got to page fifty and had writer’s block. I was in L.A. for the summer and when I came back my daughter had spoken to a psychic and she said, ‘You have to call this psychic. She is unbelievable.’ ” Robbins followed her daughter’s advice. During their meeting, the psychic said, “Your spirit guides are asking me to ask you: ‘What about your writing?’ ” “I started writing a book,” Robbins admitted. The psychic said, “It’s not a book. They want me to tell you it’s SocialLifeMagazine.com
a play.” Then she gave Robbins the subject matter and said, “That’s what you should be writing about. It’s going to be a game changer for you.” That evening, Robbins woke up in the middle of the night and started writing an outline. “For four weeks straight, nonstop, all I did was write. It was like it was writing itself,” she said. Three week later, Robbins reached out to Darryl Roth, who produced the 2011 OffBroadway production of Catcus Flower. “I went up to her office and I didn’t expect this, but she said, ‘Read it to me.’ So I read it to her and she said she loved it,” Robbins said. Roth suggested they find a female director and start the play out of town where they could develop it without the pressure of reviews. “I found the amazing director Mary Kate Burke, and she has been developing the piece with me for the last month and a half. I’m on my third draft and I’m excited about it,” Robbins said. It has not been determined yet if Daryl Roth will be producing, but Robbins said, “Daryl Roth was extremely helpful in guiding me to the next steps for the play, and I am very grateful to her for all of her input.” Throughout her career, Robbins has learned that you have to live an artist’s life every day. “You are your own CEO. Every day you have to do something to maintain momentum. Whether it’s doing a mailing to a casting director, learning a dialect, or doing scene study. It’s not fair to your agent to wait around for him to get you auditions,” she said. This actress certainly doesn’t do much waiting around. She is headed to Venice, Italy, to an adaptationof the Henry James novel The Aspen Papers, with Vanessa Redgrave. She just wrapped up One Nation Under God, with Antonio Sabato, Jr, Kevin Sorb, and Casper Van Dien. Earlier this year, she shot two independent films: Juvie, with Eric Roberts; and Ithaca, directed by Meg Ryan and co-starring Sam Shepard, Melanie Griffith, and Meg Ryan. To find solace in her busy schedule, the actress turns to meditation. “The way it fills my mind and makes space for creativity is empowering,” she said. She also cherishes time with her family in the Hamptons. Robbins said, “We love doing bonfires at the beach. We used to make the bonfires. Now our kids are making the bonfires. I like that transition. It’s really beautiful.”
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LYSS STERN MOTHERHOOD IS A B#TCH By Bennett Marcus
RECLAIMING YOUR LIFE The message behind the book, says Stern, is that once you become a mom, you don’t have to lose sight of who you are. “For me and for so many other moms out there, between working and taking care of the kids, and whether or not you’re a stay-at-home mom, so much of it becomes about the kids. And you forget about you as the woman and you forget about you as the wife. My book is about reclaiming your life.” It offers tips about nutrition, date nights, shopping for lingerie, and letting yourself breathe. It’s also, Stern says, hilarious, with chapters like “Get Your Sh-t Together” and “You’ve Got a Mouth, Use It.” She emphasizes that most of the tips are things you can do on your own that don’t cost any money. “That’s the whole beauty of the book. We’re not telling you to go to Chanel and drop X amount, we’re really giving you tidbits that you could put into your real life each and every day, for moms everywhere.”
DIVALYSSCIOUS MOMS Thirteen years ago, Stern founded Divalysscious Moms, a networking company specifically for moms, with cool, chic, kid-friendly activities like a grand opening of the Fendi Kids boutique on Fifth Avenue. There’s usually swag in the form of gift bags, but most important, you get to have fun, and to meet other moms. At that time, there were only a handful of mommy blogs, so she was something of a pioneer. Divalysscious Moms has launched everything from UPPAbaby Strollers to Stokke Strollers, which is part of an influencermarketing program.
SUPER SATURDAY ODD MOM OUT Jill Kargman, who writes and stars in the hit TV show Odd Mom Out, was delighted to write the forward for her friend Lyss Stern’s new book, Motherhood Is A B#TCH: 10 Steps to Regaining Your Sanity, Sexiness, and Inner Diva, which just hit bookstores in the Hamptons and is also available on Amazon. “It was so heartfelt and real about how Jill felt as a mom, as a first-time mom, and how she reclaimed herself,” Stern says, clearly touched.
Her entrepreneurial endeavors include giving back: for ten years, she has run the children’s area at Super Saturday, the annual Hamptons ovarian cancer research fundraiser. It’s called Camp Divalysscious and features face painting, magic shows and more, plus activities for parents as well. Stern is also working with her husband, Brian, to create a comedy television show, called #NanaDoll, about her widowed mother, who she says is a real character. divamoms.com Social Life
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KEVIN DICKSON & JACK KETSOYAN A DEBUT NOVEL BY HOLLYWOOD INSIDERS By Lizabeth Zindel
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n their debut novel, Blind Item, Hollywood insiders Kevin Dickson and Jack Ketsoyan use their real-life experiences to explore the illusion of fame in Hollywood. Blind Item tells the story of Nicola, an assistant publicist in Hollywood who spends her days (and nights) sweeping up the scandals of the hottest stars — until she ends up dating one and finds herself at the center of the spotlight. When Dickson worked as an editor at In Touch Weekly, he met Ketsoyan, a veteran publicist who worked with PMK, representing stars like Jennifer Lopez. As they grew to trust each other, the duo shared the stories that they knew they could never print. They always joked that they would write a book one day and this summer their musing becomes a reality. The jaw-dropping scandals in the book are inspired by true life, but names are changed, leaving many to wonder just who they might be about. Dickson says, “All of the book is a soufflé of real events, whipped up into a fictional froth.” I had a chance to interview the author team about their creative process, insights into celebrity culture, and their connection to the Hamptons. What was the creative process working together on the manuscript? KD: So many phone calls, so many emails, and late night I just thought of this, what do you think? texts. We bounced it back and forth like a game of Pong. JK: Also finding clever ways to develop these characters so readers have a hard time guessing who they are. Who would you choose to play Nicola in a movie version of your novel? DK: This changes constantly, but currently I’m obsessed with the idea that Daisy Ridley is scarily close to the person I see in my mind when I think of Nicola. JK: Right now my ideal Nicola would be Sabrina Carpenter or Emma Roberts. SocialLifeMagazine.com
Jack, you specialize in helping stars deal with sudden scandals. What are some of your go-to tools for handling these high-pressure situations? JK: One thing in crisis PR: you have to work with the press or it will work against you. If I had to tell you one story . . . well, you’ll just have to read the book to find out. Kevin, your years in entertainment journalism have given you unique behind-the-scenes access to celebrities. What’s a lesson about life and humanity that you have learned? KD: I saw a lot of people post-fame, I saw a lot of careers implode, and the stars never seem to understand why. It’s the ones who learn to always treat people with respect who will stick around and have a long career. I spent a day with Joan Rivers just before she died, and it was clear that she treated everyone in her orbit with kindness. Even in my very early days with Kim Kardashian, she was always gracious to everyone, photographers, waiters. And she told me, way back then, that the key was “to be nice to everyone on your way up, so they’ll be kind to you on your way down.” She was so right.
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LIZZIE GRUBMAN CELEBRITY PUBLIC RELATIONS ICON By Christine Montanti
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Photography by Andrew White
o say a typical day for one of the nation’s most distinguished and powerful celebrity publicists is hectic is an understatement. A jammed–packed calendar consisting of celebrity-client meetings, television shows, award ceremonies, red carpet events, photo shoots and travel engagements is merely daily protocol for the public relations icon Lizzie Grubman. Since she founded her P. R. company in 1996, Lizzie has acquired a client list that comprises the biggest and most talented names in the entertainment business. An influential entrepreneur, who relentlessly has proven there is nothing she can’t handle, Lizzie vigorously, balances her demanding career with the many challenges of both marriage and motherhood. Lizzie first gained her P.R. experience after her short-lived attendance at Northeastern University, in Boston. After attending only one semester of college, Lizzie dropped out and decided to remain in Boston, where she immediately began interning for Charlie Walk at Sony Music. Walk mentored Lizzie as she concurrently started promoting nightclubs in the evening, quickly earning her the title as P.R. director of the nightclub group she was working for. “My parents didn’t even know I wasn’t going to college until they realized they weren’t getting billed,” Lizzie says smiling. “I think my dad actually knew, but as long as I was keeping busy and not getting into any trouble, he was happy.” Three years later, with sufficient work experience and self-taught public relation skills under her belt, Lizzie returned to her hometown of New York City, and immediately found employment with various companies, first with MTV, and later she worked for the Big Apple Circus at Lincoln Center. During her employment at the Big Apple Circus, it became apparent to Lizzie that she had honed her public relations skills and mastered all aspects of the business. Following a brief employment with Nadine Johnson, Lizzie immediately went on to launch her own P.R. company, Lizzie Grubman Public Relations. Shortly after unveiling her company, and temporarily working out of her apartment with one assistant, Lizzie seized office space in Soho. No sooner had she started working with her first clients, Ford Models and several trendy night clubs in Miami and New York City, when her client list exploded. She rapidly became a public relations guru, representing up-and-coming megastars, such as, Britney Spears, Jay Z, Madonna, Sean Combs, Backstreet Boys, In Sync and numerous others. “At that time we had a lot of corporate clients and lot of talent,” Lizzie explains. “We did Madonna’s birthday party; we represented AOL, Sony Music and Jive Records. In the very beginning, we represented every hot nightclub and restaurant in Social Life
Photography by Andrew White
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NYC such as the Moomba, Ian Schrager Hotels, Spy Bar, and Asia de Cuba.” The day of my interview with Lizzie is on a Tuesday, early in the afternoon. Our meeting takes place in the ultra-contemporary offices of Lizzie Grubman, Public Relations & Management, as it is now named, located in Manhattan’s Flatiron district. There is an energetic vibe in the office and her team, known for working tirelessly, is dynamically engaged in various projects at their desks. When I question one of the young and trendy female staff members what her experience has been like working with Lizzie, she responds, “It really has been a privilege. I am having so much fun.” Lizzie’s personal office is located in the rear of the firm’s massive space. When I enter the beautiful glass door leading to Lizzie’s office, she is comfortably seated on a luxurious grey couch positioned in front of ceiling-high windows that offer spectacular views of Manhattan. Dressed in a floral Zimmermann dress and rag & bone peep–toe, tan boots, Lizzie is incredibly engaging. We discuss her career accomplishments over the years. In 1998, only two years after her company’s inauguration, Lizzie became an instant success, leading to the incredible wave of her fame. At the age of 27 she was featured on the cover of New York Magazine alongside fellow publicists, Lara Shriftman and Allie b. The magazine article cites Lizzie as being one of the principal power players in the public relations industry; describing her as very young, very ambitious, reigning over numerous celebrities, and billing a million dollars a year in business. In the midst of our conversation, Lizzie, who is far more brilliant than she will ever reveal, leans toward the edge of the couch and confesses to me, “To be very successful at a young age is not a good thing because the only place to go is down. I think that your ego gets in the way. You think you are invincible. Everything happens so fast and people are out to get you. The fame definitely helps with business, but in retrospect, it was a recipe for disaster. When you are so young and you make a lot of money and you’re representing very high-profile names, people get jealous. I’m older now, and I am able to look back at it and reflect on what happened. People in the industry reading the New York Magazine article probably didn’t like it.” In addition to Lizzie’s extraordinary career, she is unconditionally devoted to her family. “My family comes first, my husband and my two boys,” she explains. Lizzie becomes very animated when she describes how she met her husband, Chris Stern. “We knew each other in high school but we lost touch. We later reconnected through our mutual client Sean Puffy Combs.” Lizzie smiles and says, “Chris gets me like no one else. He is my rock. We compliment each other because he is much calmer than me. I am extremely fortunate to have found a man who totally understands me. I really don’t know what I would SocialLifeMagazine.com
do without him.” She goes on to describe her two sons: “They are amazing boys. Harry is 10 years old and is very similar to Chris in many ways, and Jack is eight and more like me.” They are best friends and great kids. We are incredibly lucky.” When questioning Lizzie about how she manages to balance the demands of both her career and family she responds, “You have to make it work and make time for your family. I am dedicated to my family and I absolutely love my work. P.R. is so much fun and I am incredibly passionate about it. I only take clients that I have real connections with; clients who I believe in and I think have real talent. I want to make people money and make them famous, but I can’t make people famous who really don’t have the talent.” Instagram: @lizzie_grubman Twitter: @LizzieGrubman
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THE ANIMAL RESCUE FUND OF THE HAMPTONS ARF CELEBRATES YOUR LOVE FOR ANIMALS By Lizabeth Zindel
ARF Designer Show House
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he Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons, ARF, has been actively rescuing cats and dogs since it was founded in 1974. Guided by its core values of compassion, integrity, and dedication, the organization provides quality care and offers sanctuary until loving homes can be found. At any given time, 150 cats and dogs are living at the state-of-the-art Adoption Center, located on 22 wooded acres in Wainscott. Most of the animals are rescued from from high-kill animal control centers and puppy mills, or come from people who can no longer care for their pets. In December, ARF also provided a safe haven for five dogs rescued from China’s Yulin Meat Festival. “At ARF, we like to think that every day is a potential happy ending just waiting to happen for one of our animals,” says Jamie Berger, the charity’s director of marketing & communications. Throughout the summer, ARF will be hosting adopt-a-thons in Bridgehampton at Marders and Petco and in Amagansett at One Stop Pet Shop. ARF’s staff have also planned a wonderful series of unique events to celebrate their love for animals and raise money for this important charity. At the ARF Designer Show House, top interior decorators will again transform the ARF Thrift & Treasure Shop in Sagaponack, using furnishings from the shop and items from the designers own collections. Show house designers include Rachael Ray
Bow Wow Meow Ball
Home, Irving & Fine for John Rosselli, Tamara Fraser for Worth Interiors, Cathy Kincaid, Richard Keith Langham, Jeff Lincoln, Kathryn’s Flower Gardens, Ann Pyne, and Iris Zonlight for Blue Ocean Design. An exclusive preview and cocktail reception takes place on Saturday, May 27. The sale is open to the public Sunday and Monday, May 28 and 29. The 31st annual Garden Tour on Saturday, June 17, will feature delightful gardens in East Hampton Village. A cocktail party will take place on Friday night, June 16. This is a must for gardeners and those who simply enjoy the beautiful landscapes found on the East End. On Saturday, August 19, celebrated decorator and ARF board member Alex Papachristidis will join sensational event planner David Monn to amaze us with the décor for the 2017 Bow Wow Meow Ball, held at the ARF Adoption Center in Wainscott. Special guests once again will be the cats and dogs of ARF, with their incredible stories of resilience and hope. ARF’s Stroll to the Sea Dog Walk on Saturday, October 7, will feature food, pet-themed vendors, contests, and a two-mile charity walk to the ocean and back. Held on the grounds of Mulford Farm in East Hampton, it is the perfect way to say good-bye to summer and welcome the fall. For more information, visit arfhamptons.org Social Life
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Every Event Is A Big Event at TGIF Party Rentals.Whether it is the Academy Awards or backyard wedding celebration,TGIF Party Rentals is focused on providing everything you need, anywhere you need it.As the nation’s leading full-service event rental company, we’ve got you covered from tent top to tabletop.With a nationwide network of party specialists, there’s no place we can’t be.And no event is too large or small for us to help make it a success. Tents | Chairs | Tables | China | Dance Floors | DJ’s Lighting | Catering | Glassware | Inflatables | Amusements Flatware | Event Supplies | Lounge Decor
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CRISTINA VERGER WEDDING & EVENT PLANNER By Bennett Marcus
HARVARD CLUB She has always done it that way, even back when she was the director of catering at prominent venues like the Harvard Club and Windows on the World, where she had large staffs and high volumes. “Weddings can be very difficult. You have to know how to deal with people in a certain way. It’s almost impossible to teach someone; you either have it or you don’t have it.” To make sure she gives each wedding the proper attention, Verger takes on only a maximum of eight per year. She goes the extra mile, for instance personally delivering custommade table linens to the venues, and even performing the seemingly impossible, like bumping an entire wedding for 250 people to the following day in January 2016, when a blizzard hit New York City. “Weddings are fun to do because it’s the event that really needs you; it’s where you really can have an impact,” she says. She is discreet about naming her high-profile clients, but among them are a television news personality, a professional athlete, and an owner of the Minnesota Twins.
DESTINATION WEDDINGS With satellite offices in Rome, Milan, Florence, and Paris, destination weddings have become something of a specialty of Verger’s, often in Europe, but also anywhere from Vermont to Aspen to Costa Rica, where a couple had fallen in love with a jungle town that was practically off the grid, complete with dirt roads, and decided they had to marry there.
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or over fifteen years, Cristina Verger has run her eponymous events planning firm, creating everything from corporate and society gatherings to birthday parties, but it’s weddings that she most enjoys working on, including ones in the Hamptons.
HAMPTONS WEDDINGS “A wedding is emotional, it’s forever, there is no do-over. It has to be perfect no matter what,” Italian-born, New Yorkbased Verger says. For that reason, she personally handles every detail of any weddings her firm takes on. “No one is going to speak to my assistants when they’re planning a wedding. They’re meeting with me on everything.”
GETTING MARRIED ABROAD Hers is a boutique company specializing in giving clients a different experience. “If you want something unusual, it’s not a Pierre wedding, it’s not a Plaza wedding, it’s your wedding, and that’s what I’m going to make it,” Verger explains. She thinks her European background and command of several languages benefits her clients. “Because I was born in Europe, where countries are close together, I was naturally exposed to many different cultures. I am the perfect bridge for the American who wants to get married abroad.” Cristina Verger cristinaverger.com 212.715.0590 Social Life
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HOLLYWOOD POP GALLERY 5-STAR EVENT DESIGNERS BRETT GALLEY AND HER TEAM OF VISIONARY EVENT ARTISANS EXCEL AT “OVER THE POP” CELEBRATIONS & EXPERIENCES By Tina Travers
Private waterfront celebration
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(Top) Brett with Smash Mouth, (Bottom) Brett, Team POP and Jon Bon Jovi
rett Galley is hands-down the go-to-expert for making your whimsical or classic party dreams come true. A former entertainment director at famed Tavern on the Green, in 2000 Brett took over the innovative event company her mother created years earlier. From finding the perfect venue to selecting the right florist, celebrity entertainment, or theme, planning your dream event is no easy feat. Brett and her creative, clever, and sometimes outrageous team of artisans always strive to take your big day to the next level. Being that a theatrical background is required to work at Hollywood POP, it’s no surprise that the staff excels at delivering the wow factor with flawless precision. Team POP takes an offbeat approach to the planning process as they are gifted in bringing creativity and originality to every event they manage. Less inspired by the standard, run-of-the-mill style event, Brett’s team of wildly imaginative women aim to mirror the client’s needs with a major splash of style and ingenuity. These memory makers “create events as if they were classic pieces of art,” shared one client For example, Hollywood POP can certainly plan and execute a classic white design, featuring modern white furniture and white lisianthus. But when a giant white elephant sashays onto the ballroom floor, you’ll know it’s a Hollywood POP experience. Hollywood POP caters to private and corporate clients,
Bette Midler’s Hulaween Bash
offering an unparalleled selection of entertainment and customtailored planning and design services. Known for securing iconic performers, including John Mellencamp, Tony Bennett, Katy Perry, Donna Summer, Bon Jovi, among many others, team POP has been called on by society’s elite for its art-of-the-party talents. Hollywood POP weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs, corporate events, fundraisers, children’s parties, international destination events (most recently St. Barth and Italy) and even intimate private dinners become unrivaled memories. With Hollywood POP, you will have a bespoke team of professionals working on each element of your event: a dedicated manager, creative director, stylist, production manager, etc. Clients are treated like Hollywood royalty and their events reflect this sentiment. The team manages everything from the creative concept to guest-list management, seating charts, event timelines, production schedules, design, décor, entertainment, and all other details needed to create a successful celebration. We hear that they have even weathered wardrobe malfunctions to family feuds with style and grace. Hollywood POP has three offices: a charming office in Greenwich, Connecticut; a townhouse in Manhattan’s architecturally significant Gramercy Park; and an elegant office in London. Host the unforgettable with Hollywood POP Gallery ~ the Art of the Party. hollywoodpop.com #GirlPower #POPPower #BossBabes Social Life
JOIN US FOR OUR ANNUAL PAUMANOK LAMB ROAST Saturday, August 26 5:30 p.m. Paumanok Vineyards 1074 Main Rd, Aquebogue paumanok.com/events.html
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MEET THE HOTELIERS PYERS O’CONOR NASH AND MARGUERITE O’CONOR NASH By Joe Alexander
CORONATION STONE Outside the front door of Clonalis House, hidden behind some shrubs, is a Coronation Stone, dating back to the twelfth century, and was used to inaugurate thirty or so O’Conor kings.
But a senior colleague at his bank with an interest in history advised him to grab the opportunity, advising, “I guarantee you twenty years from now, you’ll lean back in your office one day and put your hands behind your head and ask yourself, God, I wonder if I’d ever gone down there, would I have been able to save the property. And I thought to myself, Nailed it,” Pyers said, smiling at the memory. Thirtysix years later, the O’Conor Nash family is still there. The property actually does support itself now, but the way they made it work was for Pyers to return to his banking job after six years, so they could live on his earnings while they restored the property. “Pyers decided to go back to banking and then, bit by bit, we started to do things with the estate, because that took an enormous pressure off,” his charming wife explained. “We were not now relying on Clonalis for personal income.” And they never have. “Now, the electricity bill and the insurance bill is paid for by the revenue generated, but we actually live off my pension from my previous salary,” Pyers said. “So, it’s a rather strange way of making ends meet, but it works.”
THE O’CONOR NASH FAMILY The O’Conor family continued to control the land in the area throughout modern history. They lost control here and there over the centuries, mainly through wars, but somehow managed to recoup the property time and again. It’s an unusual situation, given how so many of the Downton Abbey-type estates in Great Britain have been taken over by the government because they were too expensive for private owners to maintain. Pyers O’Conor Nash was working in finance in Dublin when, in 1980, his mother inherited the estate upon the deaths of her two sisters who had been living there. At that time, his mother wasn’t able to care for the place, and they didn’t know what would happen to it, given that the house was in poor condition, and the taxes high. Pyers and his wife, Marguerite, in their late 20s with young children at the time, took stock of the place in November of 1981. “All the advice we had was that under no circumstances should I give up my job, because we had a young family and because the house wasn’t going to survive the tax charge that had been levied on it,” Pyers said. “We were told that, technically, while the property had been inherited by my mother, it was really worth nothing.” The castle was in poor shape. “The walls would absolutely run with condensation,” said Pyers. “I mean; I’m not talking just kind of the odd drip. I’m talking running. We’d mopped the walls in this place in those early days more than once to remove the condensation.”
BALLINTUBBER CASTLE About five miles from Clonalis Castle is Ballintubber Castle, which was the medieval seat of the O’Conors until the time of Oliver Cromwell, who removed the family from it in the 1600s.
WILLIAMITE WARS “They got it back briefly, and it again was removed under the Williamite Wars, when William of Orange and James VII, King of England, battled it out, and the O’Conors lost it for a second time,” Pyers said. “They lost it for about 300 years, but the castle then was repurchased in 1895 by my great-grandfather, the man who built this house. And so it’s back in O’Conor hands.” clonalis.com
O’Conor High King Coronation Stone
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GO CHARITY FAIR WARNING: GO CHARITY BRINGS THE BUZZ By Jacob Puck
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o review a list of organizations that have become clients of Go Charity is delving into a world of some of the most renowned do-gooders and charity organizations in the country: Alzheimer’s Association of Texas, American Heart Association of Los Angeles, Children’s Hospital of Greater Cleveland, New York City Jewish Family Services, Dr. Oz’s Healthcorps Foundation, Naples Winter Wine Festival, Autism Speaks, Jewish Family Services (and hundreds more). It’s just a sampling of groups that have discovered that Go Charity’s creative edge offers superior items and unique experiences that add buzz to their silent and live auctions. “When you work with Go Charity, you quickly experience how we bring innovation and commitment to your specific needs,” says Darran Brown, the founder and CEO. “Every client is treated with the same level of service, but every event is different, so we consult first with the client and then customize our offerings to fit the exact needs of the client so they can be successful with their auction. Too many times a new client tells us their previous vendor delivered too many items and surprises to their event, therefore causing stress, poor display, and little proceeds. We turn that around real fast!” Well known for their “white glove” touch, Go Charity is a complete, one-stop consignment-based vendor for all auction needs — with a twist. “There is little doubt that you’ve attended your fair share of silent or live auctions, and most of them have probably been pretty textbook. And, if you’ve ever tried to organize an event that includes an auction, you may have had a pretty grueling experience securing quality auction items,” says Darran. “What we bring to every event is a unique experience and luxury items, while releasing the enormous burden of curating, planning, and fulfilling an event.” SocialLifeMagazine.com
Go Charity is nothing less than a trusted partner that will manage and enhance any auction. With a staff that has a combined experience of over 50 years in the charity auction world, they are regaled as a hands-on company willing and able to work with a client every step of the way leading up to an event. But, they take it a step further. “We offer a program that gives your organization full access to all of our items and experiences on a 100 percent consignment drop-ship basis,” says Darran. “We will work with you prior to your event assisting with the selection of a handful of auction items that will ship out to you so you can display them at your event.” Go Charity’s unique list of experiences, which include sporting events, travel, entertainment award shows, VIP concerts, adventures, and chef dining, are all managed in-house with a standard concierge service that winning bidders have come to expect. “So, be assured when you auction off a Go Charity experience, your winning bidders will receive our concierge style services from day one until they complete their trip,” says Darran. Go Charity has a unique inventory of items that includes sports and entertainment memorabilia, fine jewelry, luxury watches, art, wine, spirits, fashion accessories, and even vintage handbags from Chanel, Prada and Louis Vuitton — all available on a risk-free 100 percent consignment basis. “When you work with Go Charity, you will quickly experience the difference, with our sincere commitment to you and your organization. With a 95 percent client renewal rate, there are many reasons clients keep signing up with Go Charity,” says Darran. “First class services, quality products, and the highest level of professionalism are what you will receive when you team up with us!” gocharity.com
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