I love a good farm stand, and for as long as I can remember, I’ve shopped at the Ludlow’s family farm. They have owned the land for the longest time, and split it between the potato/corn farm and the dairy farm. My girls love going to visit the cows every morning, and feeding the chickens after camp. Recently they opened up a shop on the property of Mecox Bay where they sell all of their artisanal cheeses, milks, and fresh eggs. Going there all summer to stock our house is a real treat, that I will miss as the seasons change. If you get a chance, ask Pete Ludlow to visit the baby cows in the back of the farm where they offer kisses, and bring your camera to capture the special moment!
Read moreThe Dan Flavin Art Institute - DIA Art Foundation
There are many fun activities for rainy days in the Hamptons, however most of them are under the radar, and therefore underutilized. Many times we make art projects, or go to crafts classes, perhaps visit the children’s museum, Parrish Art Museum, or the library. However, there are some other interesting options like the Dan Flavin Institute located in the town of Bridgehampton.
Read moreMAMA-OF-THE-MOMENT: Rebecca Minkoff
Describe yourself in 3 words...
Brave, hardworking, loyal, caring.
How did you get started? Explain the process of starting your own apparel and accessory brand.
I started my brand in 2001. After launching a capsule collection that landed me on “The Tonight Show,” my bags became an overnight success. In 2005, my “Morning After Bag” ignited my career as a handbag designer. In 2009, I introduced my first ready-to-wear collection. Today, I design not only handbags and accessories, but also footwear, jewelry, watches, as well as a men’s clothing under the Uri Minkoff label.
What inspired you to create your own handbag and apparel business?
I decided if I was going to work this hard, then it better be me answering to myself at the end of the day.
You have grown rapidly, and now have a very established, well-known brand. What would you say attributes to brand longevity?
Persistence, not taking no for an answer, connecting with your customer and listening to her.
How have your children impacted your brand?
My children have made me become stronger and more focused. I hope I am a role model and an inspiration to my children. I want to set an example for them and inspire them to always follow their dreams. Having them also made me a hyper multitasker and also forced me to rely on my team for what they are there to do.
What is the greatest challenge of balancing mom life and work life? What tips can you provide our readers who struggle with this?
I don’t think the work/life balance is something you can magically achieve. I often say that balance is a term that was made up to make women feel inadequate for not achieving it. I think it’s about juggling and knowing what you’re comfortable with. And then knowing that once you figure that out, you don’t go beyond that. It’s about finding the ebbs and flows about how your life goes. Ultimately, balance is the goal, but not always realistic. For me, I want to walk my kid to school every morning. That means we don’t have meetings with me until 9:30 a.m. Or I won’t leave my kids for more than 5 days or they come with me. It’s those give and takes that are unique to each mother that she must explore for herself.
What are your favorite children’s clothing shops?
Monica and Andy, Sapling Child.
What are your favorite online sites for children?
Abcmouse for screen time and they learn as well.
What are your favorite Hamptons kid’s activities in the summer time?
- Hanging out in our backyard by the pool is the best.
- Going to the beach.
- We love to cook and bbq so a perfect day is the pool, bike ride to beach, following by a big family meal outside.
What values do you hope to instill in your children?
Courage, compassion, independence, hardworking, grateful, and kindness.
Perfect Moment - Beach Sport
Everyone knows I love to workout. Getting dressed for Tracy Anderson every morning means I need a ton of workout gear, because let’s be honest, looking cute is half the battle! Over the years, I’ve realized that I tend to wear more swimwear to the gym, because it’s all made with spandex, and has a lot of give. Additionally, if any of you have seen the pool of sweat surrounding me after my workouts, you’d understand why swimsuits are my preferred attire! Perfect Moment is a swimwear line that is so sporty looking, I can easily pass it off as gym clothes. They have amazing one-pieces I can wear both in the ocean and on the dance floor. Their fit is perfect, and the quality of their fabrics makes the line truly unique. Now, my kids can match me in their new mini collection of rash guards, swimsuits and sweatsuits.
Read moreMonica & Andy - When the Kids Invade Surf Lodge
Sunday funday was spent at the beach pit of the Surf Lodge in Montauk, where I hosted friends and family for a day of children’s activations and delicious mini bites. Monica & Andy put together a great roster of activities including DJ lessons, making customized hand painted jackets, building sand castles, and face painting. The kids snacked on mini lobster rolls, chicken fingers, crudités, mini grilled cheese, and fresh little spoon smoothies packed with healthy ingredients. Monica & Andy had a booth filled with the cutest printed onesies, dresses and pajama sets, my favorite being the banana leaf print! Everyone enjoyed mingling and the kids had a fun-filled day, which is really what Sundays are all about! A win win!
Read moreArmarium - Join the Armi
Buying an evening gown, or any dress, for that matter, for a very special occasion, pains me, because I end up spending a fortune on a look I’ll only wear once, that then, retires to my closet. I hate to be wasteful, so thankfully Armarium, founded by Trisha Gregory and Alexandra Lind Rose, is a company that allows me to wear beautiful, current collections for a night, for a fraction of the price, to be returned the following day. Trisha has had relationships with all of the top designers, as she has worked in the industry for years, and has curated the best selection of designer pieces for her showroom. This summer, she spread her wings to the east end and has opened her first pop-up shop in Southampton, located at 28C Jobs Lane to make it accessible for all of us attending the numerous events and parties in the Hamptons.
Read moreAndie Schneider - New York Speaks
WEBSITE: http://newyorkspeaksspeechtherapy.com PHONE: 646-844-6200 EMAIL: newyorkspeaksspeechtherapy@gmail.com INSTAGRAM: @newyorkspeaksslp
Having been in education the majority of my life, and teaching children with learning disabilities, I know the importance of various therapists to help young children find success. Many children I worked with struggled with speech in some form, and finding a great speech pathologist that goes above and beyond to connect with each child is a priority in fixing the issue. Luckily, Andie Schneider opened up her own speech pathology practice in New York called New York Speaks, and she has expanded her services to the Hamptons this summer. She works with both children and adults, and does home visits to make the session convenient for parents on the east end.
Read moreHamptons Aristocrat - Farm to Fork
WEBSITE: http://hamptonsaristocrat.com PHONE: 631.488.0581
The best catering in the Hamptons is hands down the lovely ladies at Hamptons Aristocrat. Lucky for us, this year, they have opened up their first restaurant located in Bridgehampton, and it’s my very favorite brunch on the east end. Everything they cook is all-natural and organic, from local farms, and they garnish with herbs and flowers from their own garden on the property. Their presentation is eco-friendly and absolutely beautiful, always with a pop of color and flavor. My favorite on the menu is their tuna tacos, garnished with avocado and herbs. Louisa and Lexi are two of the cutest best-friends I’ve ever met, and they are a damn good duo in the kitchen. They gave me the best lessons on which farms to shop for the best produce and dairy, and I could’ve stayed to hang with them all day because they are such a pleasure. If you want take-out for a picnic on the beach, or a day on the boat, they offer that as well behind the counter.
Read moreMAMA-OF-THE-MOMENT: Dahlia Selva CEO, Stephanie Roy-Heckl
Describe yourself in 3 words...
- Candid
- Determined
- Confident
How have your children inspired you to launch your own brand?
Having children changes your perspective on virtually everything. I felt this change the minute I was pregnant with my first. My business partner Danilo Giordano and I have been talking for years about launching a footwear brand together. I thought to myself: why am I working for others when I can build something for my children? Something I’m passionate about, something I believe in. Something they can be proud of one day. I hope to be a role model and an inspiration to by children, setting an example to always go after their dreams.
What has been your biggest challenge in motherhood to date?
My patience. At first, I had a hard time accepting that when spending time with my daughter, I can’t do anything else. Which is hard when you are launching a business because your brain is constantly working! I know that she could feel my disconnection. What I learned is that even when you are overwhelmed with several things, the key is to focus on one thing at a time. You can’t multitask when spending time with your children. Now when I spend time with them – I do it actively and consciously. Quality over quantity.
What are your favorite new baby products to hit the market?
A French children’s skincare line called MINOIS. I am completely obsessed with the texture, quality and smell of their products.
Pay it forward and tell us a few of your favorite shoe designers?
Of course, my favorite shoe designer is my business partner and Creative Director Danilo Giordano! His designs are so feminine and emotional – they just make you feel special when you wear them.
I love Gianvito Rossi for a simple and elegant look. Golden Goose sneakers to run around on weekends.
And Malone Souliers. They have a strong identity and make beautiful shoes with a twist.
What is your favorite shoe brand for children?
Elephantito for shoes and sandals; Superga for sneakers.
What is your favorite family vacation destination?
The South of France. My husband is French as his parents live there so we spend some time there every summer with my brothers- and sisters-in-law and their 11 children. The air, the light, the colors, the smell – it’s such a special place!
What are your go-to activities with your children in the Hamptons this summer? Any favorite classes?
Can’t beat the beach and a pool filled with floaties! When we want to take them for a walk we love the Walking Dunes trail in Amagansett and LongHouse Reserve in East Hampton. And of course, the Children’s Museum in Bridgehampton, when it rains. I also love to take the kids to the sunset Fridays and Saturdays at Wölffer Estate.
How did you find the process of setting up a new business? What advice would you give to women who are looking to become entrepreneurs?
I was completely clueless at the beginning. As confident as I was in regards to our vision and my knowledge of the industry – setting up a business was a whole other animal. I worked in corporate for very large companies my entire career – setting up a business was far from anything I had learned.
Do we opt for an LLC or a corporation? Where and how do I register the business? The legal aspect, trademarks, accounting, IT, logistics – you name it! I knew nothing about these things! My husband helped us write the business plan and I asked a lot of my entrepreneurial friends how they started their businesses. I asked them for recommendations and guidance. And somehow it just all fell into place. Listen to your gut and believe in yourself. Know your strengths and weaknesses. It’s a lot of work, but unbelievably rewarding. After all, it’s YOURS.
What is your mantra?
Don’t dream your life. Live your dream.
What values do you hope to instill in your children?
To be grateful, open-minded, curious, confident, kind, determined, considerate, just and honest.
3 Beauty Products to Give You That Supermodel Glow
I’m madly in love with a fresh, naturally flawless, glowing face. Picture Christy Turlington and Ed Burns, oh so cool, walking down the street circa 1994. In reality, this is not what I have, no matter how many times I wish on 11:11. Not being a fan of thick foundations that make my skin feel claustrophobic, and completely unnatural, I spent years being frustrated with my makeup, constantly searching for a way to look impossibly perfect.
Don’t get me wrong, I think that imperfections are beautiful, they make us interesting and unique, but most of the time I’m working to reduce or remove uneven skin tone, pimples, or extreme exhaustion from my face. When I finally figured out that layering 2 - 3 light-weight products gave me that natural super model glow, it changed my feelings on face makeup. I was thrilled that I no longer had to basically lay fondant on my face before I left the house every morning at 8 a.m.
Throughout the years, I’ve consumed many primers, tinted moisturizers, sheer foundations, breathable this, lightweight that, frequently adjusting combinations for summer tans or winter whites, morning redness and evening events. It may seem like a lot of work, and it was, but it felt worth it as long as I wasn’t using a cake knife to remove my makeup every night. But now it’s 2018, we have self-driving cars (sort of), eye-glasses that double as a computer (not chic ones though), a W Hotel on the moon (we can always dream), and Erborian.
What happens when Korean skin care rituals joins forces with French beauty secrets? A lot of complements on your skin! Erborian https://usa.erborian.com/, who totes itself as “intelligent beauty” is a laboratory-developed beauty line using cutting-edge technology, with high quality ingredients, creating an exceptionally effective line of makeup and skincare.
I discovered this line when a trusty beauty junkie I know had it resting top shelf amongst all of her must-have daily staples. I did a little research and immediately got my hands on a few of their products that were of interest to me. Eureka! I struck face makeup gold. One greedy application and I was hooked. Since then, it has been nothing but non-stop compliments on my skin, from everyone from friends I see daily, to strangers on the street. I wanted to take all the credit as if I effortlessly roll out of bed this flawless, but it’s just too good not to share. So much so that I found myself pulling it out of my bag during dinners, giving makeovers on the spot just to watch their excitement as they admire the results. If I wasn’t going to take credit for being so naturally stunning, then at least I would take credit for helping the people around me reach perfection.
1. Erborian Pink Perfect 4-in-1 Primer
Absolutely start of with one of their outstanding primers. I use the Pink Perfect 4-in-1 Primer. Its creamy, yet matte texture blurs imperfections, minimizes the appearance of pores and enhances your skin tone with an illuminating glow that has no hints of shimmer or glitter.
2. Erborian CC Cream
The perfect way to prep for second is Erborian's mind-blowing CC Cream. Coming in two tones, light and medium, the CC Cream has encapsulated pigment which starts out white, and as it’s is rubbed in, adapts to your skin tone creating the perfect match. No more dead giveaway blending issues. This light-as-air cream not only disguises flaws but also has components like ginseng to moisturize and smooth for long term baby soft skin. My face resulted in the most admirable even and soft glow. I was skeptical when I noticed the the CC Cream had SPF 25, as I have a love/hate relationship with sunscreen, I know I need it, but I hate the way SPF looks and feels, making my skin feel greasy. I don’t know how they did it however, but there is so little greasiness that I had to double-check the tube and then the website, to make absolutely sure the SPF was in there.
3. Erborian BB Cream
I complete my look with the Erborian BB Cream. The difference between CC Cream and BB Cream is not so dramatic, which is why they layer so well together. CC stands for color correcting, it is generally more sheer and airy with a fluffy whipped texture, melting into your skin with ease, working wonders to mask imperfections.
BB Cream stands for beauty balm, this is more like a light foundation. Having a denser consistency and more pigment, it’s perfect for harder to cover spots. Erborian's fantastic BB cream contains heaps of traditional Asian herbs that moisturize, plump, and refine texture, simultaneously reducing the appearance of blemishes and further evening out skin tone.
The combination of these three products helps me sleep better at night knowing that I no longer need to adjust my product combinations to meet my skin's needs because Erborian is doing it for me. I can also blissfully state that I was able to store away all my other full-face products making room for more red lipstick.
I like to call this triple threat, "taxi cab makeup," because they all blend seamlessly together with the heat of my finger tips. Even an amateur makeup wearer can easily apply a full face of coverage in a moving car without a mirror and confidently step out of the car knowing they will look just like a supermodel, or at least their skin will.
ONDA Beauty - Natural Glow
Another amazing addition to Sag Harbor town is ONDA Beauty, founded by three very health-conscious women aiming to change the beauty game. Larissa, Naomi and Sarah have joined forces to create a space for women to visit that is both relaxing and zen. The goal being to eliminate all of the toxins we put on our bodies daily, and find the best, clean, all natural products to replace them with. They sell everything from natural makeup to lotions, bath products, cleansers, and herbal remedies. They have a wealth of knowledge when it comes to their products, and help find the perfect regimen for each individual customer. ONDA Beauty has the most incredible aestheticians working in their treatment rooms, doing custom facials everyday, and the backyard serves as a relaxation space designed by Urban Zen. My favorite of their products is the Lord Jones CBD lotion to soothe muscle aches and pains. Not only do I love the scent, but it actually has worked to heal my Achilles after a recent injury, so I am thankful they turned me on to this product.
Read moreLove Shack Fancy - Beach Chic
A new store has hit the town of Sag Harbor, with its magical old-world aesthetic, and vintage finds. Love Shack Fancy, a women’s wear brand founded by one of my best friends, Rebecca Hessel Cohen, has opened up shop, and everyone has taken notice. She has brought her signature floral, shabby chic style to the beach, and mixed it with an eclectic assortment of accessories, including handmade dolls, beach totes, pillows, throws, and vintage clothing. Rebecca, a former stylist, knows how to put a look together better than anyone I know, and her store is the ultimate proof of that talent. I’ve watched her build this brand from scratch, and seeing her dream come to fruition with the opening of this beautiful shop has made me so proud. If you haven’t already been, it is a must-see while in the Hamptons. Her dresses reflect the laid back, boho vibes of Sag Harbor, so this shack is truly in it’s element.
WEBSITE: http://loveshackfancy.com ADDRESS: 17 Main Street in Sag Harbor, New York.
Read moreGoop MKT Sag Harbor - General Store
Sag Harbor is probably my favorite town in the Hamptons because it still has all of its original bones, and it’s located on the water. We have been spending even more time there recently because my girls love to watch the boats and grab an ice cream, and I love its new great addition, goop MRKT, located across from the marina.
goop Sag Harbor opened Memorial Day Weekend and has since become my one-stop-shop for all my natural beauty needs, with everything from Tata Harper and Rahua, to Organic Pharmacy and Dr Sturm. I basically do not need to go any place else for products.
They also sell some of my favorite dress designers for minis, like Lindsey Berns, and have amazing beach pieces for me, like the black Marysia jumper, that you can see in the photos above!
The goop Sag Harbor space is stocked with some the best selection of home decor pieces, particularly their tablescape items, like the napkins and glassware.
You can also find a selection of Hamptons-specific handbags from Prada, a summer-inspired fashion closet from Saks, and goop's own line of apparel, G. Label.
The store is open daily from 10am - 6pm until September 3. You can find it at 4 Bay Street, Sag Harbor, NY.
Troy Training - Get Stretched
EMAIL: troystressmgr@gmail.com PHONE: 312.933.1924
While spending much of my time this winter in Miami, I took up running on the beach. Running is a lot harder on my legs, knees and feet, so my body had a hard time adjusting and therefore I was more prone to injury. Luckily, I was introduced to Troy Training, who does house visits, and has a very special technique for stretching the muscles and circulating the energy flow of the body. Troy saved me from many aches and pains, and we are so fortunate to now have him in the Hamptons all summer! Being an avid Tracy Anderson Method client, my body tends to feel very tight. Stretching is not really incorporated in our workout and therefore, Troy plays a large role in keeping my body aligned and pain-free. He uses a machine called the Raptor, which really gets deep into your muscles, and loosens up the joints to relieve stress and tension. He is a true healer for any of us who workout regularly, particularly with regards to high-impact exercise.
Read moreSimple as 1 2 3
Congratulations! You have made it passed level 1. You have defeated the beauty counter, plowed through the internet, and conquered product commitment. Armed with your new skin care weapons, you now embark onto level 2. Riskier and more challenging, the application phase. Edward Burke once said, “Good order is the foundation of all things.” Armed with strategic knowledge you will be able to battle through this next level beautifully.
Step 1. Cleansing Oils or Balms
I strongly believe in a double cleanse for the evenings. This doesn’t mean washing your face twice (although sometimes I do). This is like makeup removal PLUS. Not removing makeup and dirt clogs pores making them appear larger, causes inflammation and spawns breakouts. But even if you don’t wear makeup, our skin picks up many other harmful baggage throughout the day like dirt and pollution which breaks down collagen provoking premature fine lines and wrinkles. It’s best to get all of this gross stuff out of the way so that your face wash can be further enhanced. Remember, oil and water doesn’t mix so this is like fighting fire with fire. The oil/balm cleanser attaches to the oils in makeup and pollution breaking down and dissolving them with out stripping your skin of its helpful natural oils. If you are absolutely adverse to an oil/balm then go with micellar water as it has similar benefits. After massaging it into your skin gently wipe away excess with a washcloth soaked in lukewarm water, hot water is never best. I get great results with out ever feeling oily from Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm.
Step 2. Face Wash
This second cleanse is more traditional involving a good 1-minute lather, cleaning deep into your pores, giving you a fresh canvas to work with, allowing products to be much more effective.
Face wash has come such a long way that we can no longer consider it soap. Gel cleansers are great for a deep cleanse, decongesting pores. Milk cleansers don’t strip the skin, so anyone who is dry would benefit from keeping more of their natural oils. Foam cleansers remove excess oils, banishing unwanted shine. Exfoliating cleansers remove dead skin, which is key if you feel like you look dull. With all of these targeting options, your skin treatments start with your wash, that’s why removing impurities first is so important.
Step 3
Many people skip toner, thinking it dries their skin out. This thought should be a thing of the past from a time when very few options were on the market. Now toners come in all shapes and sizes, addressing every skin concern from dry skin to aging skin. Toner is so important because it completes the cleansing process removing anything left behind, including extra cleanser. In addition toner shrinks pores, restores skins pH balance and further preps skin for the products to follow allowing them to penetrate deeper for stronger long lasting results. Toner shouldn’t be skipped, just make sure you are using one that is right for your skin type.
For dry skin, look for toners with Glycerin, it will help to hydrate and smooth skin. Make sure to stay away from any that have alcohol in them. For sensitive skin, pick something with aloe vera. For oily skin, go with witch hazel as an ingredient. For mature skin, chose a toner with vitamin C. Fresh has an extensive line of toners that all work well.
Step 4. Eye Treatment
Technically, eye treatments can be applied at any point in your routine, as long as it’s before your moisturizer, since you would be stearing clear of this area during other applications. I personally like to start with my eyes, protecting the delicate skin and ensuring my product of choice is in full effect having no other competition.
Using a different eye treatment in morning and evening is important. Since our skin restores while we sleep, it’s a good time to add hydration and fight fine lines with something heavier, in form of a cream. In the morning, look for one with antioxidants such as vitamin C as it will help protect from any stressors you encounter throughout the day.
Step 5. Serums
When your skin is at its cleanest is the best time to apply the most active and concentrated treatments, because they will be able to penetrate the deepest. These would be things like your retinols, salicylic acid, glycolic acid and antioxidants like vitamin E and C.
Layering is great if you have multiple concerns you want to address, but limit yourself to 3, or else you risk them pilling, not absorbing properly, and possibly overloading your skin, resulting in irritation. A good rule of thumb when layering serums is to apply thinnest to thickest. The thinest will absorb the fastest and the thicker may prevent or dilute the effectiveness of lighter consistencies from getting through. That being said, if there is a concern you wish to address more aggressively do a spot treatment and allow for it to absorb before continuing to see maximum results. It’s always best to allow each layer to absorb by waiting a minute before applying the next. Retinol should be used alone and only in the evening as it doesn’t do well when exposed to sun light possibly causing sunburn.
Be consistent with your serums, even if you are alternating. Don’t expect to see results if you are using them sparingly a few times a month.
Step 6. Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is one of my favorite products! Newer to the beauty scene, it has surprisingly immediate results. Our skin naturally produces hyaluronic acid, but due to the aging process and lifestyle factors, this useful production takes a hit causing dullness and fine lines. Hyaluronic acid attracts moisture from the air then regulates and distributes the needed amount of hydration for your skin type leaving you glowing and plumped, filling in fine lines and wrinkles, dramatically.
Hyaluronic acid is light weight, non-greasy, and works for every skin type. Additionally, it layers well with retinol by reason of it’s non-aggressive and hydrating nature. Since hyaluronic acid is such a loyal hard worker, it will go anywhere it is needed, bringing extra moisture with it to best get the job done. This means if the air is drier than your skin it will pull out your moisture leaving you dryer than before. For this reason, it’s best to lock it down with a heavier product, like cream, especially in the cold winter or dry locations such as Las Vegas, and its a fantastic trick while flying. On humid summer days I don’t need any further hydration to get the perfect plumping results and in winter, when followed with moisturizer, it prevents any signs of that sad dull and dry skin. Loving SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator.
Step 7. Moisturizer
Moisturizer does a terrific job of sealing all other products in, and acts as a barrier from environmental stressors that would otherwise dilute their efficiency. For that reason, it should come after your more potent products. For some skin types, creams can be skipped when they are in humid environments as their skin naturally produces enough moisture. Make no mistake this is not the same as having oily skin. In fact oily skin needs moisturizer as much as anyone else because moisture is water based, not oil based. This is a common mistake made by people with oily skin causing the body to only produce more oil due to the lack of moisture present. If you are prone to shine make sure your moisturizer is oil-free, look for a lotion or gel as they are lighter than creams.
Step 8. Oils
Face oils should always be used last, since they can penetrate through moisturizers, but not all moisturizers can get through oils. While oils are beneficial to all skin types, some people may find them too rich for a morning routine, rendering a greasy look. If this is the case, only use them at night to wake up and enjoy all of their amazing results throughout the day. You can also strategically apply, avoiding areas of the face that tend to get more oily. I find using less than the recommend amount gives me more positive results. Absolute favorite Darphin 8-Flower Nectar.
Millie & Noah - Quality and Craftsmanship
WEBSITE: http://millieandnoah.com EMAIL: jen@millieandnoah.com
Jen Tran, founder of jewelry line, Millie & Noah http://millieandnoah.com, named after her children, contacted me around Mother’s Day. She was so lovely and kind when she connected with me on Instagram, I immediately knew I would adore her. Jen isn’t only sweet, but overwhelmingly generous and inspiring. I really admire women who have passion and take true pride in what they create, and Jen’s jewelry is a labor of love. Jen asked that she connect with my daughters to make an extra special, custom ring for me to present on Mother’s Day. Each of my girls was to design a band, working closely with her from start to finish, so they understand the process of a real craftsman. She sent them art kits with instructions, and even documented the process in a beautiful scrapbook for me, outlining my girl’s hard work and design. As a special surprise for my daughters, Jen made each of them a necklace with miniature versions of my ring to wear and remember what they made for their Mama! It’s the most special gift I’ve ever received, and such an incredible hands-on learning experience for my children.
Read moreTickkit - A Parent’s Life Saver
EMAIL: mytickkit@gmail.com
Every time summer rolls around, parents can’t help but stress about ticks. There are many tick-related diseases, but I think the scariest of them all is Lyme. I check my girls head to toe everyday, spray them with bug spray, and coach them to stay away from tall grass. However, on the east end, with all of the deer, it’s become a real threat. I was thrilled to find out about a dear friend’s new business venture, The Tickkit! Amanda Godfrey, Mama of 2 boys, was petrified each summer and decided to help all parents by providing a kit with all of the tools and instructions needed for proper tick removal. She even includes the envelope, addressed and stamped, to send into the lab, so that you get everything solved as quickly as possible. When it comes to our children, it’s time sensitive, so definitely have your home stocked with these kits all summer long.
Read moreThe Culinistas Take the Hamptons - Farm to Table
WEBSITE: http://theculinistas.com/hamptons EMAIL: Q@theculinistas.com PHONE: 646-590-2944
For casual BBQs, July 4th dinner celebrations, a girl’s lunch, birthday, anniversary, or simple light bites and cocktails, the Culinistas have you covered this season on the east end. I always get requests from people in the Hamptons who want private chefs, and never before did I have a phenomenal group to recommend, until now. I have used Jill and Tiana’s chefs many times now, so I know that the menu will be fresh, and food delicious. The two girlfriends started their business in NYC, and realized the demand out at the beach in summertime, so they have set up shop to help with all of your catering needs, and last minute get togethers. They also provide prepared food delivery in case you do not have time to rush around 27 in crazy traffic to go food shopping. Try to contact them in advance as they have become very popular!
Read moreMAMA-OF-THE-MOMENT: Fabiola Beracasa
Describe yourself in 3 words...
- Creative
- Inquisitive
- Empathetic
How have your boys inspired you to do all this great philanthropic work?
Having children has further galvanized what I’ve always believed to be true: “there’s is no such thing as other people’s children” when I look at my children, I see the preciousness and worth of all children. It’s that boundless love and appreciation for my boys that drives me to stand up for humanity.
What are your favorite family activities in NYC and the Hamptons?
We enjoy doing things as a family, especially when it’s about exposing the kids to new things. With so many to choose from, going to museums in the city is always a fun family activity.
- The Children’s Museum
- The Moma
- National Museum of Mathematics
- The Brooklyn Museum
- The Met
In the Hamptons we like to spend a lot of time outdoors some of our favorite are
- Picnics
- Paddle Boarding in Montauk
- Pony Rides at Rita Stables
- Soccer on the Lawn
- Looking for Worms and Bugs
- Swimming
- Fire Pit Marshmallow Roasting
What has been your most memorable family vacation to date?
That’s a hard one, Jason and I like to take our kids with us everywhere (even business trips when possible) so that means we have lots of great family trip memories. But recently we took a family trip to Iceland and did many unique and fun things like get in hot springs, walk behind a waterfall, watch a geyser in action, snowmobile on a glacier, see a volcano, and during the whole week we were there the sun never set, That was pretty wild!
You wear so many hats, being Mama, producing film and artist/brand collaboration, co-owning The Hole art gallery, and devoting yourself to many philanthropic efforts, how do you carve out “me time?” How do like to spend that time?
The truth is all the things I do are “me time” I have had the great luxury of choosing my path/career in life. I am grateful for the privilege of being able to do what I love everyday.
Who are your favorite artists for children’s bedrooms?
We like to expose our boys to all kinds of artists/art and teach them early how to interact with the works so they can enjoy art through all the stages of their lives. Having said that there is a great website I like to use called Artstar, Little Collector that really curates kid-friendly works by great artists.
What values do you hope to instill in your children?
I hope to support and nurture our boys to be the best version of themselves, whatever that looks like. As parents we want to teach our children how to navigate in the world with:
- Self Love
- Critical Thinking
- Kindness
- Inclusion
- Empathy
- Determination
- Curiosity
- Creativity
- The Ability to Listen
- Self Awareness
What’s your mantra?
Change the way you look at things and the things you look at will change.
Saturday Skin
Having a freshly clean face is one of my favorite feelings. Those brief moments I have to glance in the mirror after cleansing and before applying vitamins and hydration motivates me to keep up my skin program day after day. I enjoy a deeply cleansed face so much that I almost always wash my face two to three times per routine, especially in the evening, when I may be removing dirt and/or makeup from the day. Without question, I am certain this is one of the best ways to attain the results you are looking for.
Saturday Skin Rise + Shine Gentle Cleanser would leave me speechless if that was a possibility. I was though, momentarily stunned silent after the first use. All I thought for that brief second was, squeaky clean! My face felt so clean I could indeed hear squeaking. After one use there was no sight of pores or uneven red tones, my skin was so smooth and brilliant. There it was a flawlessly clean, happy, healthy face! Formulated with apple and peach extracts, the cleanser removes impurities, combined with hydrating gel that leaves you with plump glistening skin. I was taken by surprise with the immediate effects and continue to be in awe after every wash. I can say without doubt that is is now my all time favorite facial cleanser that I will never be without. A personal note about cleanser - I like to apply it to a dry face then adding water to activate it and always remove with a cloth.
Read more