From natural elements to vintage heirlooms, Back Bay interior designer Dane Austin shares his tips for seasonal decorating.
Leigh Whittaker jumps from the marketing industry to the kitchen to open her own restaurant, Le Mari.
Local fashion curator and boutique owner Elisha Daniels advises us what to wear to festive gatherings.
Photographer: Cullen Hlavika
Hair: Michelle Kelly, Hera | @michellekelly_hair
Styling: Elisha Daniels Boutique | @elishadaniels
Flowers: Barbara Maran Goldberg | @marandesigns
LET’S CONNECT!
hHELLO fellow Back Bay and Beacon Hill residents!
As the air gets a bit crisper, I’m thrilled to share with you the inaugural issue of MyBoston magazine, which celebrates the very best of what makes our vibrant community unique.
It is so nice to meet you. My name is Renata Coker, the publisher of MyBoston. I have worked extensively in the publishing industry previously, and my friend and former editor Leigh Harrington is helping me launch MyBoston.
Born and raised in Europe, I arrived in Boston for the first time 30 years ago as a visitor. I stayed in a friend’s home on Marlborough Street and immediately fell in love with the Back Bay. Over time, I returned to Boston again and again, telling everyone that Boston is my favorite city in the U.S. and believing one day that I
would live here permanently. After traveling the world and living in a few interesting places, including New York City, circumstances returned me to Newbury Street exactly one year ago, and I feel like I have come full circle.
I have always been inspired by the rich tapestry of stories, people, and places that define a community. In each issue, you’ll find news about the local food and culture scene, profiles of fascinating people who live among us, insights into neighborhood happenings, and spotlights on businesses and organizations that make our community thrive.
This November, as we gather with friends and family, we’re reminded of the power of community and the importance of connection. With gratitude in our own hearts, we launch the first edition of MyBoston with articles that focus on home holiday decorating tips, an entrepreneurial Back Bay chef and her new restaurant, an adorable Beacon Hill children’s mascot, and a curated wine list from a local expert. The calendar spotlights everything from where to vote on election day, to Christmas tree lightings, to book club meetings.
MyBoston is for you and, most importantly, about you. I invite you to share your stories, ideas, and feedback with us. Thank you to our writers, contributors and photographers. Thank you to our first partners and advertisers—please support them and tell them MyBoston is sending you.
I created this magazine to capture the spirit of Boston’s two most beautiful neighborhoods. I hope you enjoy it!
Renata Coker Publisher,
MyBoston www.mybostonmag.com @mybostonmag
Publisher Renata Coker
Renata.Coker@mybostonmag.com
Managing Editor
Leigh Harrington
Editor@mybostonmag.com
Creative Director
Kijoo Kim
Writers
Celina Colby
Samantha Mangino
Photographer Cullen Hlavika
WAINSCOT MEDIA
Chairman Carroll V. Dowden
President and CEO
Mark Dowden
VP, Group Publisher, Regional Thomas Flannery
VP, Content Strategy Maria Regan
Associate Editor Sophia Carlisle
Art Director
Rosemary O´Connell
Advertising Services Director
Jacquelynn Fischer
Operations Director Catherine Rosario
Production Designer Chris Ferrante
Print Production Manager Fern Meshulam
Advertising Production Associate Griff Dowden
PHOTOGRAPH BY CULLEN HLAVIKA
BACK BAY & BEACON HILL
Community CALENDAR
From election day details to holiday tree lightings, local events to social gatherings, these experiences bring neighbors together in November.
EVENTS
Nov. 2 & 16, 6:30-10:30 p.m.
Beacon Hill Friends House Eclipse Fusion
Dress to impress in fun shades and even glitter. Fusion dance lessons run for the first hour, followed by a DJ and social dancing with mixed styles of dance. Tickets $5-$25, pre-registration required. 8 Chestnut St.
Nov. 4, 12 p.m.
Boston’s Veterans Day Parade
Once again (and one week ahead of November 11), the city honors veterans and active duty soldiers with a massive parade that features more than two dozen military units, honorary militias, and marching
bands. Route starts at the Copley Square Library, follows Boylston Street past Boston Common, and turns left onto Tremont Street before ending at City Hall Plaza.
Nov. 5, 8 p.m.
16th Annual Berklee Middle Eastern Festival: The Music of Georgia
Many musicians come together to celebrate the musical traditions of the Republic of Georgia, including Giorgi Mikadze, Christiane Karam, Tamada, and the Pletenitsa Balkan Choir. Tickets: $15-$25. Berklee Performance Center, 136 Massachusetts Ave., 617-747-2261
Nov. 14, 6-9 p.m.
NABB/Women’s Lunch Place Harvest Festival & Auction
The Neighborhood Association of Back Bay hosts its largest annual fundraiser in support of longtime local charity Women’s Lunch Place, which operates a day shelter and services for homeless women. Food, wine, craft beers, an art gallery of original works, and a silent auction are all part of the fun. Sponsorships available and donations welcome. Tickets start at $125. 67 Newbury St., 617-267-1722
Nov. 18, 5-7 p.m.
William Hickling Prescott Award for Excellence in Historical Writing
Massachusetts Historical Society and The
Celebrate Veterans Day with a visit to the Bunker Hill Monument, which honors the Colonial Militia.
Photograph: Bonnie Kittle on Unsplash
Giorgi Mikadze co-directs this year’s Middle Eastern Festival. Photograph: Courtesy of Berklee
Colonial Dames of America present Pulitzer Prize-winning historical author Stacy Schiff with this illustrious award. Her latest book is “The Revolutionary: Samuel Adams.” Reception starts at 5 p.m., program at 6 p.m. Tickets are $10, free for members. 1154 Boylston St., 617-536-1608
Nov. 18, 6-7:30 p.m.
The Seltzer Factory: Film Screening and Conversation with Writer and Director Paloma Valenzuela
In this short documentary, the Dominican-American filmmaker explores her family heritage and her identity as a biracial Latina Jewish-American. Followed by a Q&A with the artist. Free, but registration required. Central Library, 700 Boylston St.
Nov. 22, 8 p.m.
Lady Gaga Ensemble
Just dance along to this full-scale tribute performance dedicated to the American
singer-songwriter who hit the pop music stratosphere with hits like “Poker Face,” “Shallow,” and “Bad Romance.” Tickets: $12-$17. Berklee Performance Center, 136 Massachusetts Ave., 617-747-2261
TREE LIGHTINGS
Nov. 27, 5-6 p.m.
Copley Square Tree Lighting
Boston Children’s Orchestra and Boston Pops Brass Ensemble gather to serenade partygoers for the holiday tree lighting in Copley Square. Stop by the Fairmont Copley Plaza for a photo with Santa.
Nov. 30, 6-8 p.m.
Boston Common Tree Lighting
Mayor Wu, Santa, and Rudolph flip the switch at 7:55 p.m. to illuminate the Nova Scotia Christmas Tree and all the holiday lights on Boston Common and the Public Garden. Beforehand, festivities include
live music, entertainment, tasty treats, and special guests. Boston Common Visitors Information Center plaza
Nov. 30, 7:55 p.m.
Holiday Lights at Commonwealth Avenue Mall
Celebrate as the Friends of the Public Garden light up your favorite tree-lined boulevard to kick off the holidays. Lights run from Arlington Street all the way to Kenmore Square. Commonwealth Avenue Mall, 617-723-8144
Nov. 30, 8 p.m.
Emerald Lights at Charlesgate Park
Just in time for the holiday season, stop by and watch as 10 Japanese zelkova trees are illuminated in the Emerald Necklace Conservancy’s signature green color, right at the park where the Commonwealth Avenue Mall meets the Emerald Necklace. Charlesgate Park at Commonwealth Avenue, 617-522-2700
Commonwealth Avenue Mall lights up the night every holiday season. Photograph: Courtesy of Friends of the Public Garden
ELECTION DAY
Nov. 5, polls open 7 a.m.-8 p.m.
Federal and Massachusetts State Elections
WHERE TO VOTE
Ward 4
• Cyclorama
539 Tremont St.
• Copley Square Librarary
700 Boylston St.
• Tent City
130 Dartmouth St. Ward 5
• Cyclorama
539 Tremont St.
• State House
24 Beacon St.
• West End Library
151 Cambridge St.
• Hill House Community Center
127 Mt. Vernon St.
• Emmanuel Episcopal Church 15 Newbury St.
• Old South Church 645 Boylston St.
• Copley Square Library 700 Boylston St.
• St. Cecilia Parish 18 Belvidere St.
NEIGHBORHOOD
Nov. 7, 9:30-11 a.m.
Greater Boston Food Bank
Annual Chain of Giving
Partner with your friends and neighbors to supply the GBFB with turkeys. GBFB Warehouse, 70 South Bay Ave.
Nov. 9, 2:30-3:30 p.m.
Book Swap
Fiction, non-fiction, young adult, and more. Bring an old book to the BPL and swap it for a new-to-you one. Central Library, 700 Boylston St.
Nov. 12, 2-4 p.m.
NABB Mystery Book Group
Gather via Zoom to chat about the mystery book of the month. Call for more information. 617-247-3961
Nov. 12, 6 p.m.
Beacon Hill Women’s Forum with Dr. Eileen Reilly
The Street Team Psychiatrist for Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program talks about
her work caring for homeless people with mental illness. The Hampshire House, 84 Beacon St.
Nov. 13, 2:30-3:30 p.m.
The Lonely Hearts Club: A Short Story Social for Seniors
Listen to, discuss, and socialize over a short story. This regular event takes place on the second Wednesday of every month. Central Library, 700 Boylston St.
Nov. 21, 3 p.m.
The History and Master Plan of the Commonwealth Avenue Mall
The Garden Club of the Back Bay hosts this lecture with Margaret Pokorny. gardenclubbackbay.org
Community events abound at the Boston Public Library. Photograph: Chris Rycroft, Flickr, CC by 2.0
Whether you’re looking for a slice, a Thanksgiving dessert, or something savory, pie is on the menu at these neighborhood spots.
BY CELINA COLBY
Top left: Chocolate berry pie from Black Rose European Bakery.
Photo by Tue Ho Photography
Top right: Flour’s cranberry-pear crostata.
Photo by Leah Willis
Bottom left: Raffles’ Boston cream pie is an iconic dessert if not an actual pie.
Photo courtesy of Raffles Boston
WHETHER IT’S THE COOL weather, the return of comfort food or the elastic waist cashmere loungewear, fall and winter stir cravings for pie. This isn’t a new phenomenon: Some of the early settlers to New England baked pumpkin pie in the autumn harvest season, and by 1796 it appeared in Amelia Simmons’ “American Cookery,” the first cookbook ever published by an American.
This November, skip a flour-filled kitchen and order pies for your Thanksgiving table, or just enjoy a slice yourself at one of the neighborhood’s elegant eateries. In our opinion, these are the five best spots for pie in Back Bay and Beacon Hill.
BLACK ROSE EUROPEAN BAKERY
The new kid on Newbury Street, Black Rose European Bakery opened in August and serves an immense array of baked goods from brownies and cheesecake to gluten-free French
macarons. For Thanksgiving, it’s offering custom 8-inch pies in a host of flavors, including apple, blueberry, strawberry, and Boston cream.
To go: Pre-order two weeks in advance to reserve one. You can also swing by as a select few will be available in-store ahead of the holiday.
303 Newbury St.
FLOUR BAKERY
Born from the culinary mind of one of Boston’s most beloved chefs, Joanne Chang, Flour Bakery is a source of comfort food in Beacon Hill and beyond. Sample a classic New England apple pie or branch out with coconut cream or mile-high lemon meringue.
To go: Preorders for Thanksgiving open Thursday, Oct. 24; holiday preorders open on November 30.
209 Cambridge St.
BEACON HILL BAKERY
Beacon Hill Bakery doesn’t have a storefront, instead offering a limited selection of Central European-inspired baked goods to go. And yet this place is still known for producing some of the most mouthwatering treats in the neighborhood. This season, order szarlotka, a Polish apple pie, leading
up to Thanksgiving.
Orders can be placed November 17–26 for pickup or the bakery will deliver within four miles of Beacon Hill. www.beaconhillbakery.com.
LONG BAR & TERRACE AT RAFFLES
They say the best things in life you can’t take with you and that’s true of Raffles’ decadent spin on Boston cream pie. You can order it on-site, but it’s not available for takeout or holiday preorders. Still, the 10 decadent layers of fluffy yellow cake, sweet cream and dark chocolate are unparalleled. Try a slice with an espresso or a glass of bubbly. 40 Trinity Place.
EMMETS IRISH PUB & RESTAURANT
For more savory cravings, head to Emmets Irish Pub & Restaurant on Beacon Street. This place is known for its hearty beef and Guinness pie served in a flaky pastry crust. Chicken pot pie and shepherd’s pie are also on the menu. If you can’t choose, order the “Taste of Ireland,” a mini trio of all three savory pies. 6 Beacon St.
Celina Colby has been writing for over a decade about diverse topics, including art, food, travel, fashion and the arts.
Left: Beacon Hill Bakery’s szarlotka Polish apple pie. Photo courtesy of Beacon Hill Bakery
Right: Flour’s Piefecta, a pumpkin, pecan, brown sugar, and whipped cream pie. Photo by Leah Willis
FRONT PAIGE NEWS
Author and illustrator
Sarah S. Brannen talks about creating Beacon Hill Books’ adorably furry mascot.
BY SAMANTHA MANGINO
BEACON HILL BOOKS opened back in September 2022, unveiling a gorgeous five-story bookstore and café in a historic brick building on Charles Street. No surprise that it has become wildly popular, as it’s full of whimsy and wonder, especially when it comes to the store’s mascot, a little squirrel named Paige.
Paige adorns T-shirts, mugs and totes for sale by the bookstore, but what customers may not know is that she has a story of her own, created by local author and illustrator Sarah S. Brannen, called “Paige of Beacon Hill.”
We sat down with Brannen to chat about her children’s collaboration with Beacon Hill
Books, how she got her start and what inspired Paige.
How did you start as an author and illustrator?
I always knew I wanted to be an artist, but it’s difficult to make a living. I worked as a painter and an architectural illustrator, doing architectural renderings. I did that for a number of years, but I kept thinking that the kind of work I wanted to do was small, detailed, fairy tales, flowers, and animals.
What was the genesis of “Paige of Beacon Hill” and your collaboration with Beacon Hill Books?
There was a moment a few years ago when I stopped working to take
Sarah Brannen’s forthcoming children’s book “Miles Comes Home” (a picture book adoption story for kids) will be released on November 5, 2024. To pick up a copy of “Paige of Beacon Hill,” visit Beacon Hill Books online or in store.
care of my mother and father. The pandemic happened, so I wasn’t really doing anything beyond caretaking.
Then my agent called because someone had asked if I would write and illustrate a children’s book about a squirrel who lived in a bookstore. I was free, so it was as simple as that.
In your story, Paige lives in an abandoned building on Beacon Hill. What was it like bringing Paige to life?
Melissa Fetter [owner of Beacon Hill Books & Cafe] invited me to lunch at her house, and then we went over to the shop, which was just a building then, completely gutted, and construction had yet to begin.
I was really inspired by that tour. There were no walls, just studs and exposed brick. Some of the windows were broken, and it was fascinating—it spoke to me. I wanted to start the story with the building just like that, and by the end of the story, the building would be finished, and the squirrel would move into it. I was really inspired by the building.
Did your architectural experience come into play?
As it happened, they picked the right person for this project. By the time I finished illustrating the book, construction had started but was very early. I could look at the plans, and I had paint and fabric samples. I kept asking Melissa to send me more because I had to understand every single detail so I could understand what the building would look like without it actually being there.
I have to say, I don’t think there are very many children’s book illustrators who could have done that. So, it turned out
to just be one of those perfect confluences—the right people at the right place.
There is an area inside Beacon Hill Bookstore where Paige’s home in the book is replicated. How did that come together?
The other aspect of the story that Melissa always wanted someone to build a house for the squirrel. So she asked me if I knew anyone who could do that. I thought of Brian Lies right away. He’s this brilliant bestselling author and illustrator, but I knew he was extremely crafty. So we worked together because my illustrations needed to look like his little house, and his little house needed to look like my illustrations. So we passed things back and forth, and it was a lot of fun.
Beacon Hill has such a rich personality. What was it like to incorporate it into the book?
I walked all around the neighborhood twice, first for inspiration. Once I’d written the story, I had to go back and retrace Paige’s exact steps and get the photographs of everything from the squirrel’s point of view.
Samantha Mangino is a Boston-based writer, currently a shopping reporter at Mashable. Her bylines include Reviewed, USA Today, and America’s Test Kitchen. When she’s not writing, you can usually find her sitting by Jamaica Pond with a good book.
Beacon Hill Books on Charles Street
Holiday Home Inspo
From natural elements to vintage heirlooms, Back Bay interior designer Dane Austin shares his tips for seasonal decorating.
BY CELINA COLBY
fFESTIVE DECORATIONS and wellplanned tablescapes create beauty and joy—essential to creating the holiday spirit in your home. Not to mention, the actual act of decorating is a ritual that kicks off the celebratory season.
For many, gathering with friends and family to deck the halls is an opportunity to make memories and share love, as well as embrace your holiday personality, starting with autumn and running through the New Year.
Newbury Street-based designer Dane Austin, who describes his style as “the luxury and refinement
of Tom Ford, with the whimsy and color of Wes Anderson, and the grit and soulfulness that Billie Holiday brings to her music,” looks forward to holiday decorating all year.
He shares tips on what you can do to build a merry mood in your own home, whether you’re dressing a fireplace mantel, arranging a tablescape or decorating your Christmas tree.
PUSH YOUR PERSONAL STYLE ENVELOPE
True, the holiday season only comes around once a year, but there’s freedom in the fact that these decorations are temporary. Stepping
out of your comfort zone is much easier knowing that the décor will come down in just a few weeks.
“People are more willing to push the envelope and take risks and do things that are more fun and bold,” says Austin. “It’s not something they have to live with forever.”
Of course, when done right, decorations can last through Valentine’s Day if desired.
Once the orange and gold standards of Thanksgiving have passed, try focusing on warm, wintry greens and ornamentation, a scheme that can transition through the whole winter season.
REUSE HEIRLOOMS OR SHOP VINTAGE
It may go without saying, but the hollow, synthetic pumpkins, the “It’s fall, ya’ll!” sign, and cheaply made wire reindeer will lose their charm quickly. Cycling through different, disposable decorations every year isn’t just tacky; it’s also bad for the planet.
“I try to stay away from anything plastic. That’s my number one rule,” says Austin. “I love when people already have distinct pieces and heirlooms and handme-downs, and they can reuse them.”
Austin personally loves to collect vintage Christmas tree balls from the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s. They have a charming, unique feel and it is an adventure to hunt for them throughout the year. Plus, versatile items like ball ornaments can be used to decorate a tree, tied into a bundle of greenery on the mantel or used as a unique napkin holder at dinner parties.
EMBRACE NATURAL ELEMENTS
Austin promotes decorating with natural elements for the fall and winter
holiday season, which is great for sustainability. He recommends using fresh evergreens, magnolia leaves, boxwood wreaths, holly berries and pinecones.
“I really do opt for utilizing almost anything that I can from nature,” says Austin. “I think it’s wonderful to bring some greenery indoors.”
These natural materials can be dressed up with ribbons for centerpieces or layered on a mantel for textural interest. Traditional elements like jewel-tone velvet ribbons, brass candlesticks and decorative statues make a room feel classic and special.
In the past, Austin has used tree branches hung from the ceiling and wrapped in white lights for a stunning statement piece.
SOUND AND LIGHTING MATTER
It’s not just decorations that make a room feel dressed for the holidays. Ambiance—especially for meals and gatherings—is crucial to design.
Soft, warm light feels most intimate
and inviting, but a too-dark room can be difficult to navigate. Similarly, a lofty historic home without carpets or draperies to absorb sound can leave a harsh echo that throws off guests.
“I pay attention to lighting first and sound quality second, and then it’s more about how it looks,” says Austin. “Lighting is the number one thing that can change the look and feel of a space and make it super cozy or harsh and jarring.”
If those two elements are right, the home can feel cozy and festive with just a few natural arrangements and some sentimental décor items. But warm lighting and good sound quality also create a grounded backdrop that can accommodate bolder decorations if you choose to try something new this holiday season.
Writer Celina Colby knows a lot about fashion, art and design—she has her own brand, Trends & Tolstoy, that melds all three.
NEW ON NEWBURY STREET Le Mari
Leigh Whittaker jumps from the marketing industry into the kitchen to open her own restaurant, Le Mari at 259 Newbury Street.
BY CELINA COLBY
OON A BRIGHT AFTERNOON in September, chef Leigh Whittaker stands behind the white marble bar of her restaurant, Le Mari, on Newbury Street, flipping the television to the U.S. Open to catch some of the action while she triages prep for service.
“I’m never home,” she says. “My fridge is empty.”
Whittaker opened Le Mari in July, and it has quickly consumed her every waking hour. That’s how she came up with the name Le Mari, which means ‘the husband” in French. Being in the restaurant
industry means being married to your job. Luckily for Whittaker, it’s a love match.
MAKING THE SWITCH
Several years ago, during the pandemic, Whittaker found herself at a crossroads. She had been running her own businesses in sales and marketing and traveling the world selling medical devices. During this forced downtime, she realized she needed something different.
So Whittaker followed a passion—cooking—and began
Left: Le Mari chef-owner, Leigh Whittaker. Photograph: Cullen Hlavika
Top: A welcoming entrance.
Photograph: Alyssa Blumstein Photography
attending culinary school at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts. Then she worked back-ofhouse at Earth at Hidden Pond in Kennebunkport, Maine, and then Fox and the Knife in South Boston before making the jump to ownership.
“Before I invested in a restaurant, I wanted to be in the kitchen and work with the team and make sure that I could really gain their respect in the kitchen,” says Whittaker.
If the popularity of Le Mari thus far is a testament to her approach, Whittaker is doing just fine.
The charming 48-seat restaurant is attached to the Newbury Guest House hotel. It joins a cohort of
restaurants popping up on Newbury Street, like Pinkie’s and Faccia a Faccia with its downstairs wine speakeasy, Bar Pollino.
Its cuisine is Mediterranean tapas, pulling on flavors from around the region—think satisfying Italian pastas and fresh Portugueseinspired fish plates. Whittaker finds those regional flavors give her a lot of creative flexibility. Her menu changes seasonally, and she is planning autumn dishes like pork belly with maple and brown sugar, hearty root vegetables and a fall-offthe-bone short rib.
Local sourcing is a priority both on the plate and in the glass. Much of the fish served is pulled in from
With its historical wallpaper and modern flourishes, Le Mari fits right into Boston. Photographs: Alyssa Blumstein Photography
the New England coast, while the bar program uses Velo Vodka, a South Boston-based, woman-owned brand.
“There’s such a strong group of women around Boston who have small businesses, and I’ve connected with a lot of them,” says Whittaker. “It’s great because you can cross promote and help each other out.”
A MULTITASKER AT HEART
Much of Whittaker’s experience in sales and marketing translates right into the restaurant industry. Just like in sales, hospitality is all about creating the best possible customer experience. Perhaps Whittaker’s biggest strength is calm under pressure and a go-with-the-flow attitude, which has been key while opening Le Mari when an all-hands-ondeck strategy is crucial.
“There are days I’m an electrician, a plumber, a landscaper, a human resources person,” says Whittaker. “You
have to do a little bit of everything. The experience of being able to multitask across many different lanes helps.”
What has surprised Whittaker most isn’t the chaos, but the paperwork. Running the administrative side of the business takes up most of Whittaker’s day, although she still finds time to plan the menu with chef de cuisine Jack Foley, even if it is by sending him ideas on Instagram in the wee hours of the morning.
Though only a few months old, Le Mari is thriving. A group of locals have quickly become regulars, and Whittaker looks forward to developing dependable programming, like Sunday night football viewings or a secret bar menu, for people living in the neighborhood.
“I love this end of Newbury Street,” says Whittaker.
Right back at you.
5 FAVE DISHES
• Duck confit with crispy rice, blood orange and fennel
• Sunchoke leek soup
• Sea bass with tzatziki, fennel and Granny Smith apples
• Cacio e pepe with buffalo milk butter, truffle and microgreens
• Chicken Milanese with sugar snap peas, harissa and whipped goat cheese
Left: Sunchoke leek soup. Middle: Duck confit with crispy rice. Right: Cacio e pepe. Photographs: Cullen Hlavika
Project Holiday
Local fashion curator and boutique owner Elisha Daniels advises us on what to wear to festive gatherings.
BY CELINA COLBY
T’TIS THE SEASON FOR HOLIDAY get-togethers. A constant stream of cocktail parties, office outings, and Friendsgiving dinners requires outfits to match. Elisha Daniels, owner of the Elisha Daniels boutique inside the Mandarin Oriental, has some sage advice for all who are inclined to stand in front of their packed closets and find nothing to wear.
FOR STARTERS: SKIP THE PARTY DRESS
“Unless you’re going to a black-tie wedding or a gala, no one’s going out just to buy a ball gown,” says Daniels. “But you might buy a fabulous, fun new sweater that you would pair with a stunning pair of sequin pants—and you can re-wear the pieces.”
There’s no shame in separates, and Daniels loves them for their versatility. You’re much more likely
to re-wear a fabulous skirt or a bow sweater than a cocktail dress. Daniels also finds separates are easy to dress up or down depending on the occasion.
In the boutique: The Patricia sweater from MAE New York comes in a selection of rich jewel tones and can easily be paired with a sequin pant or satin skirt for the holidays and then worn with jeans afterwards for the everyday.
CHOOSE DAY-TO-NIGHT ACCESSORIES
Accessories are key for transforming a day outfit into one for a night out at your office holiday party or any post-work event. A simple black skirt and turtleneck can be completely transformed after hours with a pair of heels and a statement necklace.
“I do a lot of mixing for holiday with accessories, because they’re
Alan Anderson uses vintage Swarovski crystals in his statement necklaces.
Photograph: courtesy of Alan Anderson
MAE New York’s Patricia sweater features a statement-making bow. It partners perfectly with the brand’s MAE X Scalamandre collection skirt, with its blackand-white cheetahs on pink satin.
an investment—but not in something you’ll never wear again,” says Daniels.
In the boutique: Torontobased jewelry designer Alan Anderson hand makes intricate, statement jewelry using vintage Swarovski crystals from the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s. His creations are a conversation starter for any party.
STEP OUT AND BE BOLD
Gone are the days when holiday dressing meant your choices were limited to red and green colors or velvet fabrics. Daniels says her customers are increasingly looking for bold, unique pieces. The holiday season is a rare opportunity to dress up in an increasingly casual world.
“There are so many beautiful silks and satins this season that have shine to them, that are completely new for holiday, and add that little bit of sparkle, shine and celebration,” says Daniels.
In the boutique: MAE New York’s MAE X Scalamandre collection
features a bold cheetah print on pink satin fabric for statement-making pieces that can be mixed and matched with your regular wardrobe.
SUPPORT LOCAL ARTISTS AND SMALL BRANDS
If you’re going to invest in an outfit for the holidays, make it special as well as versatile. Part of Daniels’ ethos is stocking small, artisanal brands that create one-of-a-kind pieces. Most of the items in her shop are limited-edition and utilize prints that have been hand drawn and painted by the artists themselves.
“The customer right now really wants something unique and special, and they don’t need the same brands that are in every store,” says Daniels. “If you’re going to spend some money, step out of your comfort zone.”
In the boutique: Elisha Daniels is the only boutique in Boston to stock the handknit ponchos of Boston artist Monika Ramizi. The deliciously soft garments are the perfect light layer to drape over a sleeveless top or dress.
The Bay State Banner and Art New England are only two of the esteemed publications Celina Colby has contributed to over her 10-year career as a Boston-based journalist.
is available at Elisha
Monika Ramizi’s winter white poncho
Daniels boutique.
Photograph: Justion de Stazio
Model: Borana Ramizi
ALIBI BAR & LOUNGE
This holiday season, gather at Alibi Bar & Lounge for an unforgettable celebration in a stylish, cozy setting. With original bluestone floors, exposed brick cell walls, and cheeky celebrity alibis, Alibi offers the perfect backdrop for your festive event. Enjoy crafted cocktails and latenight snacks while soaking in the unique ambiance of this iconic space. Book your holiday party now and receive a gift card worth 5% of your total food and beverage spend to use at a future date. Let us make your holiday celebration one to remember at Alibi Bar & Lounge.
215 Charles St., Boston, MA 02114 857-241-1144
FINE DINING GUIDE
ROCHAMBEAU
Discover holiday magic at Rochambeau, where French-inspired décor and modern charm transport you to the City of Lights. Whether you’re planning a festive gathering for December or January, our stunning venue and exceptional service will make your event unforgettable. Book your holiday party now and take advantage of one of our great incentives. Celebrate in style at Rochambeau, where every detail is designed to make your holiday celebration truly special.
BACK BAY SOCIAL
Book your holiday party at Back Bay Social and experience top-notch hospitality at Boston’s favorite neighborhood spot. Enjoy craft cocktails, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere that’s perfect for any festive gathering. Our private downstairs space, featuring a full bar and stage, is ideal for hosting memorable celebrations with live entertainment. Whether you’re planning an intimate event or a lively party, Back Bay Social offers the perfect setting to celebrate the season in style. Book now and enjoy a holiday party that’s sure to be unforgettable in the heart of Back Bay.
867 Boylston St., Boston, MA 02116 617-247-3200
FINE DINING GUIDE
SCAMPO
SUMMER SHACK
Savor Italian-inspired elegance this holiday season at Scampo, where acclaimed chef Lydia Shire crafts rustic yet refined dishes in the storied setting of the Liberty Hotel. With a menu that blends traditional Italian flavors with innovative techniques, Scampo offers an exceptional dining experience perfect for intimate holiday dinners or larger celebrations. Our sophisticated space, paired with unparalleled culinary expertise, creates a truly unforgettable atmosphere.
your event: bostonsbestevents.com/venues/scampo
Celebrate the season at Summer Shack, just steps from Fenway Park, where Boston’s best lobster roll and largest raw bar await. Host your holiday party with us and indulge in a seafood feast that’s sure to be unforgettable. From our famous lobster to fresh oysters, we offer the perfect setting for a festive gathering. Book your holiday event now and enjoy complimentary oysters on us, plus a donation to the charity of your choice. Make your celebration truly special at Summer Shack, where great food and giving back go hand in hand. Book your event: bostonsbestevents.com/venues/summershack-boston
At Sonsie, where lucky moments, love, and life meet, enjoy martinis, eclectic pizzas, and classic music in a vibrant setting. Since 1993, our iconic French doors have opened to the lively energy of Newbury Street, offering a charming atmosphere both day and night. For a more intimate celebration, book our exclusive Wine Room, perfect for private holiday gatherings. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or a festive event, Sonsie provides the ideal blend of warmth and style.
a Sip Service
Holiday occasions come in many varieties. We’ve found the perfect wine to pair with each.
BY LEIGH HARRINGTON
A HOST WITH THE MOST ROLE comes with lots of responsibilities: food, festive décor, entertainment, clean-up—especially at the holiday season. While you may hire catering or a cleaning crew, there are still some details you’ll want to handle personally, in particular, the contents of your wine fridge.
To avoid any cellar selection faux pas from now through New
Year’s, we posed a few questions to Charlie Enterline, The Urban Grape’s assistant buyer. The Urban Grape is a Black and woman-owned Columbus Avenue wine shop that supports winemakers from diverse communities. What kind of wine should you serve in various social situations? White or red? Chardonnay or Beaujolais? Keep reading for Enterline’s
recommendations on the perfect bottle for your soirée, whether you have a few people over for a special dinner or a quiet evening with some creamy cheese and a mug of glühwein. Each of his wine selections are from a BIPOC or female winemaker/producer.
Good with turkey: Enterline suggests the Domaine Nico Grand Mère Argentinian Pinot Noir 2021 for a Thanksgiving or holiday meal. “One of my personal favorite South American pinot noir producers,” he says, “the Grand Mère offers a new perspective on a classic Thanksgiving Day pairing, with its velvety, purple, fruit-driven profile.” $34
Good with roast beef: Aslina South African Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 is another favorite, especially for red meat. Enterline says, “Omnipresent here at The Urban Grape, this cabernet from South Africa’s first Black female winemaker balances red fruit and green pepper, making it the perfect pairing.” $32
Ronchi Di Manzano Picolit 2018 “A lovely dessert wine from a female-run wine project in Northern Italy, this picolit is a great place to start for anyone who has yet to explore the numerous styles of different dessert wines the world has to offer,” he says. $48
Good to have on hand for guests who stop over: When you just want to sit with a glass and have a conversation, Enterline says El Bajio Mexican sparkling wine is a fantastic pick. “A Champagnestyle wine from one of the world’s most up-and-coming wine producing countries, the El Bajio is a delicate, pleasant, crowd-pleasing sparkling wine that can be effortlessly slotted into any occasion,” says Enterline. $20
Good for a mulled wine or glühwein: When making this holiday beverage, try the MDZ Argentinian Malbec 2022 Enterline says, “Malbec has always been perfectly suited to mulled wine, and for its quality, the MDZ is as well priced as they come.” $14
Leigh Harrington has 25 years in service journalism, writing and editing for USA Today, Reviewed, Fodor’s Travel, and more.
Good with seafood: A white produced by The Urban Grape founders TJ and Hadley Douglas’ own brand, Progressive Wine Company, is Enterline’s pick for seafood. “The Progressive Wine Company is built around creating opportunities for diverse communities in the wine industry,” he says. “Its Russian River Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2023 is my personal favorite. It’s a vibrant, wellstructured and fruitful white that awaits its place at your dinner table.” $34
Good for dessert: When it’s time to wrap up a meal, Enterline suggests the
Good for the perfect toast: From South Africa, Enterline exclaims the Boschendal Jean Le Long Prestige Cuvee 2009 is “the best South African sparkling wine I have ever had—a real showcase that not all great sparkling wine has to come out of France.” $105
Good for a holiday cocktail party: Lastly, when you’re having people over, Enterline suggests the Whoa Nelly Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2022 “It’s a light, beautiful red from a female winemaker out of Oregon. A perfect wine for your friends on a snow-covered evening.” $22
Abiel Smith School
Did you know? This small Greek Revival building on Joy Street played a big role in public school segregation.
BY MARK KIEFER
THE AUSTERE FAÇADE of this handsome but unassuming building belies its profound significance in American history. Evoking a Greek temple, the roof’s gable end faces the street—a rare sight in Beacon Hill but a trademark feature of the Greek Revival style of architecture prevailing when the school opened in 1835.
It’s really the social history though, that makes this building truly special, as the story of public school segregation in America both begins and ends here.
The first public school for Black children in the United States, its forciblysegregated status led to a lawsuit, Roberts v. City of Boston, in which the Massachusetts court upheld segregation under a “separate but equal” doctrine. Undeterred, local Black activists pressed on and the state legislature outlawed school segregation in 1855. The “separate but equal doctrine” established in Roberts was cited as precedent in the Supreme Court’s infamous 1896 Plessy v. Ferguson decision upholding segregation and stood as established Constitutional law for decades before finally being overturned in the landmark Brown v. Board of Education case of 1954, nearly a century after segregation was abolished here in Massachusetts.
The school building, together with the neighboring African Meeting House, form the Museum of African American History, part of the Boston African American National Historic site. For more information, visit maah.org or nps. gov/boaf, or just take a walk by 46 Joy St.
Mark Kiefer is Chairman of the Beacon Hill Architectural Commission. A Beacon Hill resident for over 30 years, he previously served as President and Chairman of the Beacon Hill Civic Association.
SCAN ME
Liquid Asset
ON SEPTEMBER 17, Friends of the Public Garden hosted a joyous ribboncutting ceremony to herald the return of the Child Fountain after a significant restoration.
New water circulation systems that prioritize water conservation were installed to allow the fountain to flow again. Additionally, the Friends showed off accompanying landscape enhancements at the Arlington Street
entrance of the historic park and botanical garden. A redesign of the granite surrounds draws focus to the fountains’ presence in the park, while additional benches invite the public to sit and enjoy the space. New lighting has been added to highlight the sculptures and to improve safety.
Nearly 100 guests, staff and board members, local dignitaries, and others attended the event, including Representative Jay Livingstone, City Councilor Sharon Durkan, Bill Clendaniel, Friends President Liz Vizza, Margaret Pokorny, Friends Board Chair Leslie Singleton Adam, Boston Parks Commissioner Ryan Woods, and City Councilor Ed Flynn.
The ceremony honored a significant milestone for the Friends as they look ahead to the future. The Friends of the Public Garden has partnered with the City of Boston for over 50 years to care, renew and advocate for the Boston Common, Public Garden and Commonwealth Avenue Mall. The three properties are national treasures and local gathering places, significantly shaping how people experience the intersection of Boston’s built and natural environments.
The Friends helps care for 1,700 trees, 42 pieces of public art, and over 50 acres of lawn. In recent years, the organization has completed many capital projects on behalf of the city, each one bringing tangible benefits to the community. These include the renovation and activation of the Brewer Fountain and Plaza by Park Street Station on the Common, the development and ongoing implementation of the Boston Common Master Plan, the restoration of the George Robert White Memorial Fountain in the Public Garden, the lighting of statues along the Commonwealth Avenue Mall, and this most recent restoration.
The Child Fountain reopens in the Public Garden after restoration.
Child Fountain at dusk
PHOTOGRAPH BY JOHN DAVID COREY
FALL HillFest
2024 party pics from Beacon Hill Civic Association’s annual event
ON SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, residents of Beacon Hill and other nearby communities gathered at the flat of Mount Vernon Street for the Beacon Hill Civic Association’s annual Fall HillFest.
Food, games and fun were enjoyed by all, with a special spotlight on the World Famous Dog Show, where owners parade their canine companions along the street, following after the Pinckney Piper before competing for the titles of Cutest, Best Dressed, Smallest, Biggest and Most Affectionate dog in the neighborhood.
Thanks to Paul Odelson of Common Canine who organized the show, Jeremy Bell, the Pickney Piper, and Paws on Charles for the treats.
At 171 Newbury street
Scan the QR code to learn more.
September Home Sales
BACK BAY AND BEACON HILL
I START MY SUNDAY taking our dog (a black lab named Weaver) on a walk. I love flowers, so we take a route through the Public Garden and then down Commonwealth Avenue Mall to try to take in as many of the late-season blooms as possible.
After my walk, I pick up an oat milk latte at Cafe Pastel, a pink-accented, European-style café in Back Bay. There is also a great selection of pastries, including croissants and pasteis de nata, a Portuguese custard tart. If you’re looking for a new (and very pretty!) coffee shop and bakery to try out in the neighborhood, move this one to the top of your list. Raffles Boston, 40 Trinity Place.
My next stop is my favorite clothing
MAEVE STIER
store in Boston: Cattivo on Newbury Street. I swing by to check out the new arrivals, since they carry so many of the brands I love (including Loveshackfancy, For Love and Lemons, and V. Chapman). If you could create my closet in boutique-form, Cattivo is what it would look like. 170 Newbury St.
Then I make my way over to Charles Street in Beacon Hill to keep shopping. I stop into Fabled Antiques. My husband and I love adding antique pieces to our home and this store is one of our favorites. Strolling through the store feels like a treasure hunt—one that has led us to quite a few of our favorite home décor purchases (including a gorgeous marble-topped table from the 1800s). 93 Charles St.
The Beacon Hill resident walks us through how she spends a typical Sunday in the neighborhood.
Lastly, as the day winds down, I’m heading to meet a friend for drinks at Coterie. Tucked off the lobby of the Four Seasons Boston alongside Boston Common, it’s a beautiful French bar and restaurant with a whimsical interior and a great cocktail menu. It’s one of my go-to spots for both drinks and dinner and is a true hidden gem—perfectly situated between Back Bay and Beacon Hill. Four Seasons, 200 Boylston St.
Maeve (@maevestyled, as she’s known on Instagram) is a local content creator with a focus on feminine fashion and beautiful destinations. Her thoughtfully curated content showcases her style, travels, favorite products, and life in Boston.
Top left: Cattivo boutique on Newbury loves pink, just like me. Bottom left: Have a cocktail at swanky Coterie, which overlooks Boston Common. Middle: Me, Maeve Stier. Right: The Public Garden is a favorite place to dog walk.
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Chrysanthemums at the Gardner
MUMS HAVE BEEN dressing the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum’s courtyard every autumn since the days when Gardner herself lived here; she also had a number of them in her personal plant collection. Through November 25, visitors to the museum can experience the John Lowell Gardner Chrysanthemum Installation, a living display featuring single-stem chrysanthemums grown using the Japanese okigu technique, as well as the Gloria mum, a buttery yellow variety directly descended from plants Gardner put on display during her time.
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