Joey Wölffer has become an icon in the Hamptons for her fashion brand, her role in the operations of the family vineyard Wölffer Estate, and overall integrating herself fully with the community on the East End.

She has been part of many endeavors from her work starting the Styleliner Truck and evolving into a full-blown fashion boutique with physical locations, her integral role with Wölffer Estate Vineyard, which is deeply rooted in her family’s history, Wölffer Estate Stables, the Wine Stand, and all things Hamptons.

Joey spoke more about her background, what led to her creation of the brand, and how her environment and location growing up on the East End has inspired and influenced her along the way.

What is the Joey Wölffer brand all about?

 
JW: We’re about being authentic! We don’t buy deeply into collections because we want people to feel special in the pieces they find. Many of the designers in our store are unique and even the more well-known designers are not highly distributed. We want our customers to feel that they too have discovered something new! We incorporate vintage along with our own collection as well as other collections. There is nothing more gratifying than having a customer leave feeling good about herself and having discovered something really unique and special!

How did you get your start in the industry? Can you talk a bit about your background?

JW: I graduated from Vanderbilt in 2004 and had no clue what I wanted to do with the rest of my life. Wanting to live abroad and escape a bad boyfriend, I decided to live in London where my mother is from. I got an internship with a family friend at her jewelry company where I worked three days a week and within a month, she had fired her designer and hired me full time. It was such a fun job that allowed me to work with different brands like Topshop, Jigsaw, Miss Selfridge, and Urban Outfitters to create special jewelry lines for their stores. Not long after, I moved back to NYC to do more design, production and merchandising for a company called Accessory Network. After that I worked as a jewelry designer for the Jones Group, specifically Nine West, where I learned the ins and outs of the corporate fashion world!

What led you to pursuing the launch of your fashion brand?

JW: I was never meant for the corporate world. My father was always an entrepreneur and I loved his ability to create something out of nothing. I started the Styleliner in 2010 because I wanted something of my own. My vision and my love for finds & fashion in a way no one else had done before. The truck concept came to me, and I knew I had to pursue it. From the Styleliner came our shop and then our Reworked by Joey Wölffer line of upcycled garments. The fashion industry is one of the largest contributors to waste in landfills and I knew I had to do something (even small) about it. All our designs are made up of upcycled fabrics and produced by hand in NYC. We really work hard to find sustainable and ethical brands to work with as well.

Can you discuss how the brand has grown over the years from beginning as the Styleliner Truck to where it is now?

JW: The brand is ever evolving. After years of being on the road in the Styleliner, I was pregnant and really wanted a place in my hometown, Sag Harbor. We opened our first space in Sabina Streeter’s studio on Madison Street, and just recently moved into our third Sag Harbor location. The growth and evolution of the brand is thanks to my amazing team & loyal, loving customers who make this all possible.

What sets Joey Wölffer apart from other fashion brands, and furthermore, from other fashion brands in the Hamptons?

JW: What sets us apart is our ability to be exactly who we are. We don’t stray away from what we as individuals love and you can see it in all the pieces we curate for the customer. As a brand we are constantly evolving and changing as I evolve and change. We constantly pivot in small ways while still staying true to who I am as a person. We strive for individuality and want our customers to leave feeling exactly like themselves and not trendy.

Do you have a favorite type of clothing, jewelry, or accessories to create and/or wear?

JW: I like mixing old with new and higher end with low end pieces. I don’t follow trends. I feel best in colorful prints and bold jewelry!

How does your experience with the fashion brand differ from that of the vineyard and your other operations?

JW: My experience with the fashion brand is actually quite distinct from my involvement in the vineyard. While the vineyard is deeply rooted in my family’s tradition and my father’s legacy, my fashion career allowed me to explore my very own creative and entrepreneurial side. The Styleliner, a mobile fashion boutique, involved curating a unique collection of global fashion and accessories, creating a distinct brand image, and embracing a nomadic retail concept. I like that my work in fashion and the creative field allows me to bring my knowledge of trends and the luxury market to my role as the Chief Brand Officer at Wölffer!

How do you juggle your responsibilities with the Wölffer Estate Vineyard and the Joey Wölffer brand, along with all your other endeavors?

JW: I’ve always said that I’m at my best when I’m doing the most. My days are busy and sometimes chaotic, but I like it that way! I tend to thrive in chaos and always find a way to make it work.

What is the most rewarding aspect about your work in any field? Do you have a favorite accomplishment to-date?

JW: I love working with my teams in all my businesses. I see how much progress and success comes from great teamwork. I am more inspired and tend to have better ideas because of the people around me. I think Summer in a Bottle is one of my favorite accomplishments that WE at Wölffer have achieved. It really put this winery on a map, a dream that my father couldn’t have even imagined would come true. I am proud of building my truck. I have never worked harder in my life, BUT I learned so much during those years and it has given me the work ethic that I have now!

What are your favorite pastimes on the East End? 

JW: I feel so lucky to live here and be a part of this community. My favorite things to do: go to the beach with my family, ride at Wölffer Estate Stables, go to the Wine Stand, weekend museum outings at the Parrish, and dinners with friends at home! 

Does your location influence your designs or concepts?

JW: Yes, of course! The Hamptons, as you know, is one of a kind. A place where you can go to dinner in your sarong or heels and still feel comfortable. We love pieces that are wearable but comfortable and multi purpose. For example, our classic reworked dresses are 100% deadstock cottons. You can throw it over your swimsuit and run errands or add a wedged shoe and wear it out to dinner. We’re influenced by the creative spirit the Hamptons has and all the amazing artists and creatives we’re surrounded by.

To learn more about Joey Wölffer and her brand and endeavors, visit Joeywolffer.com.

The post Joey Wölffer Talks About Her Fashion Brand, Family Vineyard, And All Things Hamptons appeared first on Hamptons.com.

Toccin is a lifestyle fashion brand started by the husband and wife duo, Michael and Alex Toccin, in 2019. Since they launched the brand, it has grown considerably as they add more and more to their line and collections each year with the support of their engaged fashion community in NYC, the Hamptons, and beyond.

Their mission is simple: to create clothing that helps women feel confident and stylish, while maintaining the importance of comfort when life is busy. With their brand-new fall collection out, there is no shortage of trendy essentials for sweater weather and jacket season. The couple spoke more about the mission behind Toccin, what sets their brand apart, especially in the Hamptons, and what they are looking forward to as they continue to grow.

What is the Toccin brand all about?

Michael: TOCCIN, with a simple mission of creating fashion that would make women feel comfortable, confident, and stylish, and their collection of luxe cool staples—including everything from their signature dresses to streamlined knitwear and specialty statement pieces—does just that.

How did you each get your start in this industry? 

Michael: We met as college freshmen and have been bringing out the best in each other since. After moving to New York and establishing ourselves individually in the fashion industry. I worked with Oscar de la Renta, Zac Posen, and KaufmanFranco, while Alex honed her press + marketing skills at fashion industry mainstays like Ralph Lauren and Theory—we decided to build our own digital hub giving women a place to discover and discuss trends and fashion in an approachable, authentic way.

What led you to pursue the launch of the Toccin brand together?

Michael: Our hyper-engaged community, @alexandmichaeltoccin, inspired our first collection, Toccin. Since the first season, Toccin has evolved from classic-meets-current dresses + jackets to a fully developed lifestyle collection, including everything from rich knitwear to skirts, trousers, and perfect tees, tanks, and blouses. Each piece is wear-tested by Alex to ensure it feels as good as it looks and is in line with our signature put-together aesthetic. Being full-time parents and entrepreneurs means every day is different—and we enjoy sharing a look into what our life is really like through our personal channel, @alexandmichaeltoccin.  

What is your creative process like when you come up with new ideas, designs, etc.?

Michael: I get inspired by all the women around me and from all the amazing women I see on social media. We design clothes for everyday women on the go so it’s important to get inspiration from those around you. They are who inspire me each and every day and push us to create clothing that make you feel comfortable, confident, and stylish! 

Do you have any favorite projects or pieces you have worked on over the years that have stood out?

Alex: When we launched Toccin in September 2019, we were strictly focused on woven dresses and jackets. It has been so exciting for me to watch our Toccin collection expand over the past four years into so many more categories including knitwear (my favorite), blazers and jackets, and tee shirts. 

What is the most rewarding aspect about being in this industry, and do you a favorite accomplishment to-date?

Alex: The most rewarding accomplishment to-date is seeing and hearing from your customers about how much they love the products that we are designing and creating. We strive to have women feel their best in what they are wearing every single day. 

What sets Toccin apart from other fashion brands, and furthermore, from other fashion brands in the Hamptons?

Michael: In the Hamptons you generally see a lot of florals and bohemian dresses. The aesthetic of the TOCCIN brand embodies clean lines and intriguing details that add that extra touch of flair to your look—because, after all, it’s all about the details!

How would you describe the style of Toccin fashion?

Michael: Toccin creates timeless clothing which allows you to wardrobe yourself from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM! Our clothing has a contemporary aesthetic which is tailored and polished. 

Do you have a favorite type of clothing or look to create and/or wear?

Alex: I love a great knit set, either a tank and cardigan or a knit dress with a matching topper. I am also really excited about all of the new Toccin pieces coming out for the fall, including amazing cardigans, new tee shirts, and really fun and fashionable jackets. 

Do you have any favorite pastimes on the East End? 

Michael: When we go to the Hamptons it is all about relaxation and spending quality time with family and friends! Our kids love playing in our backyard, beach days, and boat rides. We love shopping, going out to dinner, and going to the beach. 

What’s your affiliation with the East End?

Alex: We are primarily based in NYC, but we also have a home in Southampton, and the Hamptons hold a special place in our hearts. Our home was carefully curated by us in conjunction with our interior designer, Hilary Matt Interiors.

Does your location influence your designs?

Alex: Absolutely, we are always dressing for the location and the occasion. We are all about being Styled to a T and it truly makes you feel confident in what you are wearing.

For more information and to check out some of Toccin’s stylish, sophisticated, and cozy collections, including their new fall collection, visit https://toccin.com.

The post Toccin, A Fashion Brand for Clean Aesthetics appeared first on Hamptons.com.

With the excitement surrounding the return of the Sag Harbor Music Festival this year, one artist stood out in the lineup: Sara Hartman. She’s not your typical local artist. She is a SHMF veteran, performing at the very first one when she was just 15 years old. She grew up in Sag Harbor and attended Pierson High School. She took lessons at the famous Harbor Music Studio in Sag Harbor, and in 2015, she signed a record deal with a major label, moved to Germany, and toured the world opening for acts like Ellie Goulding, Clueso, Kelvin Jones, and many more. Her song “Monster Lead Me Home” off her Satellite EP has over 34 million Spotify streams. The US premiere of her new album “Start Somewhere Dark” will take place at Bay Street Theater in Sag Harbor on Saturday, September 30th. It seems things are coming full circle for Sara.

She spoke to Hamptons.com about her musical beginnings, Berlin, and new album ‘Start Somewhere Dark.’

Take us back to the beginning of your musical journey. How did it all start?

I grew up in Sag Harbor and took lessons with Paul Chapin at Harbor Music. It was a little lesson space near Sag Town Coffee way back in the day. I got a drum set for Christmas and really fell in love with it. I’m sure my neighbors were not as in love with the instrument as I was haha. I was really grateful to be working with Chapin as a teacher. He taught me a bit of piano, bass, guitar, and ukelele as well. That led to me writing songs in my bedroom as a way of dealing with a bit of a chaotic home life. It was therapy for me to be able to express myself through songs. I was adopted by the East End music scene after playing a show at Crossroads Music in Amagansett and soaked up all that I could learn. I was really supported by my family and my teachers at Pierson. Without all this, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

What are some artists that inspire you, and how have they influenced your sound?

I discovered Amanda Palmer when I was a teenager, and her songwriting really inspired me. Her lyrics were honest, to the point of being a bit abrasive. I appreciated this. Of course, I was also inspired by Ingrid Michaelson and Sara Bareilles, which is probably why I drove all around the Hamptons as a teenager with a ukulele. My car didn’t have an aux cable so I ended up going through my parent’s CD collection. My mama raised us on 90s art rock, Radiohead, David Byrne, and Bjork and my dad was a bit more punky, the Clash, Green Day, System of a down. Recently, I’ve been listening to old jazz records. Music is incredible. I am quite a nerd, and it makes me happy to find something new, random, and inspiring. My favorite song changes pretty much every day. Today, it’s sound and color by Alabama Shakes. 

It must have been a huge change moving to Berlin in 2015, signing with a major label, and touring around the world. How was the process for you?

Long story short, it was the dream. The dream is not always what you imagine it to be. I got to experience things that most people don’t get to. I played stadiums all over Europe, got a festival crowd of thousands to clap along to my songs, was on TV shows with a translator in my earbud, really incredible stuff. But I found that the amount of pressure involved with that level of a music career doesn’t always make diamonds. Things become a lot more about business than about music. It really wasn’t for me. I wasn’t ready for it. I’m grateful for the experience, but I’m much happier playing electric guitar at tiny, sweaty shows full of people who really appreciate what I do and are there for the music. I learned a lot. It took me a long time to realize that making music for the love of it is the only way that I really can do it. I lost a lot of my love and curiosity for my craft in the major label system. I’m going in a different direction now, and not only is it better for my mental health but it feels like people are really resonating with it. Audiences really want to support artists. The system that artists have to work in is not always the best at doing that.

“start_somewhere_dark” is your first album release. What or who inspired this album?

This album is dedicated to my mother, Kerrie Sundara. She has been very ill for the past few years. The album was my way of dealing with this. Music can be therapy. In the past, I wrote and produced my songs with a team of people. During the pandemic, I decided to learn how to produce myself. it was a long process, but these songs are the fruits of that labor. I wrote and produced these songs 100 percent myself. I then reached out to a friend at Fox Lane Records who agreed to help me bring them to the next level. We added more layers of production to create what you can hear now. We worked in basements in Berlin, apartments in Vienna, and a trailer in Steinfurt across from a cow farm to make this music a reality. With no budget and whatever time we could steal, wherever we were allowed to make noise. The songs correspond with the stages of grief. From Denial to Acceptance, I always play the songs in the order of the stages. This repeated process has helped me a lot. Loss is profoundly difficult, but mama was an artist and taught us how to make beautiful things out of challenging times. 

You’ve performed at the Sag Harbor Music Festival in previous years. How does it feel to be back and premiering your first album at this year’s festival?

I remember playing in the corner of Grenning Gallery at the first-ever SHAMF when I was 15 years old. This festival has helped me more than I can say in the past years. As a broke artist AND an expat, it can be quite difficult to get back home sometimes. This festival has allowed me to bring what I’ve made overseas back home. Most of my shows and life is in Berlin so it means a lot to be able to show my family and hometown a glimpse of what I’ve been up to. Playing Bay Street is a big deal as well! SOOOO grateful to Kerry and Kelly for supporting and believing in me from the very beginning. It’s a rare thing.

Berlin is such a cool epicenter of all different types of music. How does the Berlin music scene differ from the Sag Harbor music scene?

Berlin is a creative confluence of weirdos from all over the world. of course, their biggest export is techno, but I became quite involved with the underground jazz scene. Theres a little bit of everything for literally everyone there, which can be overwhelming in the beginning but once you find your people the city really opens up to you. Sag Harbor is a warm and open scene, which I do miss a bit in Berlin. But the Berlin scene is constantly pushing boundaries, combining influences, rethinking performance, playing punk shows in abandoned buildings, a breeding ground for the next new, cool thing. I find Berlin most exciting when it comes to the redefining of performances in general. When you have an audience in a space, you can quite literally do anything, and the possibilities are endless. I find this really inspiring. 

You play multiple instruments like drums, guitar, bass, and ukulele. Which one do you resonate with the most? 

Recently, I’ve rediscovered my excitement for the drums. It’s funny everything seems to be coming full circle recently, back to where they began. I really think that I approach all of the instruments that I play like a drummer. It’s the heartbeat of the band. Really excited to be playing with James Bernard at Bay Street. He’s one of the better drummers I’ve ever played with. 

Can you walk us through your songwriting process?

Songwriting is a funny thing. Ideally, you sit down with the right instrument on the right day, and the song just flows through you. These are the magic tunes. All you can do to prepare for those kinds of songs is to sharpen your tools. Learn new chord shapes, learn new vocal techniques, read lots of books, and then when songs come to you, you are ready to make it the best it can be. On the other hand, there are work songs. I write songs for German Radio artists and EDM DJs to help pay the rent. This is a much more collaborative and rational process. Thinking about internal rhyme schemes, finding a chorus melody that is memorable but accessible, and writing lyrics that are universal yet specific. I prefer the more emotional way of writing. Songs usually start with lyrics for me. I always keep a notebook with me so I can catch those magic ideas when they come around.

What are your favorite Hamptons spots with us?

I haven’t spent much time out east in quite a long time. I suspect a lot of my favorite spots are not there anymore. I will always be a huge fan of Kites of the Harbor. Good people running that shop :).

One of my favorite things to do out east was getting pizza or a foccacia sandwich from Cappellettis and eating it at Long Beach on the tailgate of my dad’s truck. That secret sauce they have is the BEST!  

Big Olaf on the Wharf also has the best waffle cone in the world. 

Instagram @SaraHartmanMusic

Bandcamp: @SaraHartman

sagharbormusic.org

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The East Hampton-based artist Hiroyuki Hamada has created a site-specific outdoor sculptural installation at the South Fork Natural History Museum located at 377 Bridgehampton-Sag Harbor Turnpike in Bridgehampton. The exhibition, Matter on the Ground, was put together by the artist for the Parrish Road Show. This is the Parrish Art Museum’s offsite exhibition series now in its 12^th season, and they are excited to feature the three large-scale sculptures by Hamada whose work is known for exploring the parallels between nature and art.

The installation opened on September 9^th and will be on-view daily through October 10, 2023 at the South Fork Natural History Museum. Hiroyuki will be doing an artist talk at the Parrish Art Museum on September 29^th at 6:00 p.m. where those in attendance can learn more about his process and his work. He spoke more about his background, what drew him to this medium, and his influences and inspiration.

How did you get your start in the arts and what drew you to this medium?

HH: I used to be a child who didn’t mind getting stuck in my room making things or drawing for hours. But all that went out the door when I became a teenager. It was hard for me to face what the world is really made of. I was angry and very frustrated. That was when I was still living in Japan. Then my father’s job took our family to the US. I learned English and started to take classes at a nearby community college where I met an art teacher, Karl Jacobson, who showed me what art can do. It was shocking. I didn’t grow up looking at art at all so I simply didn’t know visual art could do what music or books could do. I was blown away and I was immediately hooked.

Did you have any early influences in your career?

HH: Well, everything sort of happened very quick for me. I got obsessed with art after my experience at the community college. I spent almost all of my waking hours making something.  Within a few years I was in a graduate program doing the same thing.  So I didn’t know much about “art world” early on.  I think I learned from other students (graduate and undergraduate) about famous artists I should have known—like Rauschenberg, Jasper Jones, Eva Hesse, Tapies, Louise Bourgeois, and so on. I remember the impact of seeing Jackson Pollock for the first time at MoMA, just being overwhelmed with emotion, tears coming out of my eyes.

How would you describe your style?

HH: That’s a tough question for someone who is actually in the middle of making. It reflects my decades long pursuit in my studio and my personal history of art making in general. I rely on forms as opposed to subject matters. I try to emphasize simplicity but beneath that there are many layers of contradiction and depth. In short, I guess I’m into the visceral impact. It’s not too much about tools of expression, narratives, themes, and so on. I started all this when I was hooked on the mysterious quality of visual elements—just simple marks on pieces of paper, for example—having a power to move me. But of course, we live in the physical world with real materials, history and networks of human relations, natural phenomenon, and so on. Needless to say, I have to work with real situations with real materials within their contexts. So I’ve struggled in my studio in my own ways, and one thing led to another, and I came to do what I do. So I assume I can sort of describe my style relative to what other artists do perhaps, but that doesn’t really point to the essence of it I’m afraid.

Do you have favorite subject matter to explore in your work?

HH: I’m interested in this strange quality that transcends our positions in the given social formation. When I first saw my community college teacher’s paintings and drawings, I understood the visual language without sharing the culture, social norms, beliefs, and values. So that is still the thing I am after.

Where do you find inspiration?

HH: Well, you work in your studio all the time for a long period of time and you are constantly surprised by what you observe there. So I am sure I get inspired by my daily life, what other artists do, but the primary inspiration comes from the momentum of my practice.

How were you able to cultivate your own unique style over the years?

HH: I’m interested in the fact that within what you do in your studio, you come up with your own ways of relating things. When materials react with each other and form dynamics, that’s not subjected to social imperatives, which skew relations one way or the other in our daily lives. I feel connected to something bigger than the social conditionings we are subjected to 24/7. There is an inherent power in art that’s not bound by the structural mechanism of our society. It has potential to speak beyond the walls of class, nationality, gender, and so on. In essence, this is the major motivating factor for me. So for me it’s been existential to make things. It makes me feel alive. That keeps me going.

Is your art a form of self-expression? 

HH: It is and it is not because it is undoubtedly me who’s engaging in the making process, but at the same time it is about how things are in general. I’m really passive in my studio. I listen to what elements are doing and I sort of manage things so that the dynamics come to resonate with me in meaningful ways. In a way, I’m just letting things happen.

What are you most looking forward to about the exhibition Matter on the Ground? 

HH: Well, I’ve been working on the pieces for a while and I’m really happy how they turned out so it is exciting to share the work with those who would be interested. I think we are social beings and we share our perceptions as a collective, and that’s a good feeling.

What do you hope viewers take away from your work?

HH: It would be nice if the work resonates with people in some special ways, and if they can enjoy it I’d be happy.

What’s your favorite pastime or aspect about being located in the Hamptons?

HH: I love the splendid natural-scape. We have quiet beaches and wonderful trails to hike. I’ve been enjoying growing vegetables and fruit trees. It’s nice to feel the rhythm of nature and see how lives emerge and make sense out of the intricacy in harmony.  

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?

HH: I want to thank everyone who have been appreciating my work. Like I said, to me, it’s not just about me secluding in my studio doing whatever. I believe things can be different, and we have the vast universe outside of our immediate pile of obligations and necessities. If we can step out of all that and see things differently for a moment, I think that’s a good thing.

Head to the South Fork Natural History Museum in Bridgehampton any day from now through October 10^th to view Hiroyuki Hamada’s sculptural installation Matter on the Ground and take in the visceral beauty as art and nature interact with one another. For more information, visit the Parrish Road Show.

The post Hiroyuki Hamada Talks ‘Matter on the Ground’ Exhibition at 2023 Parrish Road Show appeared first on Hamptons.com.

“Marders” is the high essence of a Hamptons Nursery and so much more. It is the epitome of success, situated on 40 acres of prime Bridgehampton real estate. Charlie Marder of 120 Snake Hollow Road, along with his wife Kathleen have built a monument that has been providing their expertise and services to the residents of the Hamptons for about fifty years.

The stories are now folklore. Back in the day, usually wearing his trademark suspenders, Charlie was ever ready to move the largest trees of the Hamptons whether they were to be planted, relocated, or removed. He once boasted to this reporter that he had the record for the widest load moved by the Shelter Island South Ferry. Charlie said he deposited a tree onto the ferry on one side and fetched it off the ferry on the other side, recalling, “The tree was wider than the ferry, sticking out on both sides.”  

Charlie and Kathleen’s story is pure Hamptons/Hollywood. They married on January 1, 1976, after meeting at Ripon College in Wisconsin. After they married, they moved to Springs. Charlie had grown up in Springs and graduated from East Hampton High School. Kathleen was from Westport, Conn.

In the beginning, Charlie Marder sold firewood from the back of his pickup truck. His world changed when he leased a hydraulic tree mover for a week. Learning as you go, Charlie mastered the technique of problem-solving when it comes to moving and replanting large trees successfully; he claimed it was the foundation for his huge success.

He credits his first real substantial customer, Alfonso Osorio, for helping him establish himself. Over those first couple of years back in the late ’70s, Charlie worked with the legendary artist, creating one of the most renowned private tree collections on an estate. Forever modest Charlie forged great knowledge and skill from that era that now benefits his customers of today. In fact, the first spring I interviewed Charlie Marder, he said he had four million dollars worth of trees in inventory at the nursery, including a 50-foot-high Copper Beach with a 30-inch trunk that would sell for just under $80,000. That was over fifteen years ago. Imagine the value of his exotic inventory at today’s prices.

He roughly estimated then that his 28-acre spread (now 40 acres) had about 2,000 trees and shrubs on it. He credited Warner LeRoy as the greatest influence on him and his collection of trees and shrubs. This is far from the space he had in Bridgehampton in 1982 on Main Street. He recalled Kathleen’s knowledge of “rare and unusual plants, which we had quite a collection at that time,” propelled Charlie into purchasing the present location.

Charlie talked of successfully moving cedar trees as being what he was first known for. He told of his expertise being called in to move trees including for both New York City’s Central Park and The Botanical Gardens. Charlie believes the largest tree he has ever moved was a 90-foot-high Dawn Redwood that he moved years ago. The nursery now has a multitude of trained crews for moving trees such as giant beech or large redwoods. Charlie is known in elite circles as the tree-moving guy.

Looking around the large two-story barn that is the nerve center of the nursery, one will notice supplies and brands just not available at most places. The beautiful wooden floors of the barn make for pleasant strolling inside. There is also a collection of garden tools available. Real eye-catchers are the varnished driftwood tables that are worth going there to see. The classical music creating a soothing atmosphere inside the barn makes it easy to see why Marders Nursery has a loyal upscale clientele. The great service, great selection, and great wisdom Marders offers are renowned around the highest of gardening circles.

In that interview years back, Charlie Marder made me promise to mention his and Kathleen’s gratitude to every single customer over the years. He stressed it was a privilege and honor to be able to work with every single one of them. 

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Okay, let’s set the scene: we’re walking down Main Street, Southampton, black mini shoulder bags hanging between us. We’ve just finished dinner a few doors down, arms linked and chatting about that mini Dachshund we saw enjoying an evening stroll with its owner. What’s the next stop? You ask. A little night cap? I suggest. Could it be a warm July night, a moody October weekend– doesn’t matter because you know this bar is just as delicious in the summer months as it is on a biting winter night.

The charm of Dopo Argento hides away just beyond its darling entrance, and inside, behind the bar, works Cristopher Anchia, Dopo’s Bar manager whose energy is larger than life. With 10 years experience bartending, 3 of which have been with the Dopo Group, there’s no doubt Cris knows his way around this corner bar. In one of my many conversations with Cris, he told me he couldn’t pick a favorite drink from his menu, “ I like experimenting and creating new drinks so I enjoy that process.” Although Cris doesn’t have a favorite, I must say, it’s not hard for me to pick mine, hands down: the Gin Lane. Made with your choice of Gin, a medley of the juice from pineapple, cucumber, apple and lemon, the first taste is slightly tart, never overtly sweet and always perfectly refreshing.    

Cris, who is originally from Costa Rica and moved here with his family in 1999, is always ready to change up the music once the dinner crowd has left. He told me, “I want people to feel welcomed when they come to Argento. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a regular, I want everyone to feel at home.” There’s no doubt there’s a chair and a drink for everyone at his bar. Of all the wild stories he must have from behind the bar, Cris recalled to me a gem, the time he performed a magic trick for actor Will Ferrell while bartending, “afterward we all had fun dancing to good music. It was one of those epic nights.”

For every time I’ve enjoyed an evening at Dopo Argento, I’ve been greeted by a few regular personalities, and some new faces looking to enjoy the restaurant’s refreshing vibe and Cris’s talent behind the bar. To me, Dopo has the perfect formula for date night: romantically dim lighting across the whole restaurant and four window seats adjacent from the bar seating nestled inside large bay windows that overlook outside passersby– think Edward Hopper’s New York meets Hemingway in Paris.

When not behind the bar at Argento, Cris likes to support the other businesses in the area, his new go-to being El Verano on the corner of Jobs and Windmill. If you check out Dopo Argento make sure to try the Gin Lane and let me know what you think. See you there!

The post Behind the Bar: Dopo Argento in Southampton appeared first on Hamptons.com.

Topping Rose House, nestled in the heart of Bridgehampton, is a beacon of sophistication and culinary excellence in the Hamptons. This iconic destination has earned its reputation as a bastion of luxury and style, making it a must-visit for locals and visitors alike seeking an unforgettable dining experience.

Culinary Mastery for Every Season

At the helm of Jean-George at Topping Rose House’s kitchen is French celebrity chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten—a culinary maestro whose talents have garnered widespread acclaim. The chef’s specialty lies in crafting a menu that harmonizes the finest local ingredients with a global perspective. This fusion of flavors and techniques results in dishes that are not only visually stunning but also explode with taste.

Since opening, the restaurant has been a “jewel of Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s empire,” of more than 35 restaurants. Including JG favorites, the menu is expertly crafted with French, American, and Asian influences and driven by seasonal, local ingredients—many grown on the property’s farm. 

Topping Rose prides itself on an enduring commitment to farm-to-table dining. The chef’s dedication to sourcing the freshest produce from local farms ensures that every dish bursts with seasonal flavors. Whether it’s the succulent seafood or the delectable vegetables, you can taste the Hamptons’ essence in every bite.

Chef with Michelin-Acclaim

Not only has Topping Rose won over Hamptons locals and summer renters, but Chef Vongerichten also garnered recognition from culinary connoisseurs and industry peers alike, highlighted by their inclusion in the Michelin Guide and consistently earns 4 stars from the New York Times! It’s a mark of distinction that sets Topping Rose House apart as a destination for those who demand nothing but the best.

Ambiance of Elegance

Since his arrival, Vongerichten has taken considerable efforts to curate a welcoming yet sophisticated atmosphere highlighting the Hamptons’ agricultural and coastal roots. What they have created is a true testament to the Hamptons’ relaxed yet refined lifestyle—inside and out.

The elegant enclave greets you with an ambiance that seamlessly blends modern luxury with Hamptons charm. Designed by Wolfgang Ludes, the interior evokes a sense of understated modern elegance with its tasteful decor and inviting, sophisticated atmosphere. The outdoor terrace, surrounded by lush greenery, offers a picturesque al fresco dining experience. 

The restaurant’s chic atmosphere makes it an ideal choice for intimate dinners, celebrations, or simply indulging in the pleasures of exquisite cuisine. Want to really impress a date or colleagues? The Topping Rose Bar and Lounge is available for semi-private events and meetings!

Under Vongerichten’s uncompromising vision, this Bridgehampton gem shines bright among an already elevated culinary landscape in the Hamptons. A true celebration of what makes the Hamptons so special with a renowned chef, a commitment to farm-to-table dining, an ambiance of elegance, and a reputation for luxury. For locals and visitors, Jean-Georges at Topping Rose House is the epitome of Hamptons chic.

The post Chef’s Spotlight: Casual Luxury, Jean-Georges at Topping Rose House appeared first on Hamptons.com.

Hannah Berner was named one of Variety’s Top Ten Comics to Watch in 2023. Her hilarious Instagram Reels and TikToks populate everyone’s phones, and her two podcasts, Giggly Squad and Berning In Hell, have over 35 Million downloads. Her Fall Comedy tour is coming to the Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center on Sunday, September 3rd, at 8pm.

Hamptons.com sat down with Hannah Berner to discuss her Comedy, Podcasts, and Writing Process.

Take us back to the beginning. How did you get started in comedy?

I always dreamed of being a professional tennis player, but after playing tennis in college, I felt like I had a creative side to me that I wanted to explore. I was always goofy and silly, but I never thought I could make a career out of a sense of humor. I started working as a video producer and podcaster, and I also started tweeting on the side. One of my friends who was a comedian told me that all my tweets are actual jokes and that I should try standup. Caroline’s on Broadway reached out for me to do a live podcast show and my friend dared me to open with 10 minutes of stand-up. I took all my tweets together and performed for the first time in front of 300 people. Everyone said it was their favorite part of the night and I was hooked.

How did Giggly Squad come about?

I was deeply depressed during covid and the only thing making me laugh was Facetiming my best friend, Paige. We were laughing too much during our calls that we thought maybe we should go live so people can laugh with us. We decided to go live on Instagram at 10pm every day for 3 months and ended up creating a hilarious community of people who would watch and comment while we made fun of everything, but most importantly ourselves.

Berning In Hell is a hilarious podcast where all your guests face their demons. What demons do people in the Hamptons face?

People in the Hamptons face the demons of forgetting to reapply sunscreen! When did I turn into my mom?

I’m going to be on the road for this next year, so I am actually rebranding the podcast to a new concept called Berner Phone that I record with my comedian husband, Des Bishop. It’s our first creative project together so we are very excited. People leave us voice messages so it’s been cool to hear from people who have been listening for a long time.

Can you walk us through the writing process for your tour?

This may sound gross, but I love to “cut the fat.” I will think of new bits, try them on stage, and then cut what isn’t working as well as other jokes. I add, then cut, then add, then cut. I come up with some of my best bits just doing crowd work on stage when I feel more pressure to make the crowd laugh. Sitting down with a notepad and trying to come up with something funny is difficult for me because somehow I always end up scrolling TikTok.

What are some of your favorite topics to cover?

I love making people question traditions in relationships, beauty standards, and friendships. I also like opening up about my own struggles with depression and anxiety because the crowd always makes me feel less alone.

Do you have a pre-show ritual? If so, can you walk us through it?

I drink water, and then I pee, and then I repeat that 4-5 times because I have a phobia of having to pee when they call my name. I also love sitting in the bathroom and going over my notes. There is a lot of bathroom pre-show activity. It’s not very glamorous.

Any favorite Hamptons Hotspots?

I grew up going to Shelter Island, so I love Commander Cody’s for fried fish, SALT for drinks at their shipwreck bar, and dinner at Vinestreet. The calamari salad is my favorite, and I don’t even like salads. Right now, I live in Westhampton so I love getting a latte at Hamptons Coffee, pizza at Brunetti’s, dinner at Daphne’s, a flower pot dessert at Flora, and finishing the night off dancing at John Scotts. 

Tickets are available at hannahberner.com

The post Hannah Berner Talks Comedy, Podcasts, and Writing Process appeared first on Hamptons.com.

Kathleen will be signing copies of Cookie Queen at Tate’s Bake Shop located at 43 North Sea Road in Southampton on August 6^th at 11:00 a.m. She is looking forward to meeting everyone who comes out and shares in her passion of delicious baked goods! She spoke more about her path to opening Tate’s, her creative process, and how she hopes her new book will inspire others.

What is Tate’s Bake Shop all about?

KK: Tate’s Bake Shop specializes in all-American baked goods.

Can you tell us a little about your background?

KK: I grew up on a farm in Southampton and started baking cookies at eleven years old in order to buy clothes for school. I loved the joy the cookies brought to people, and I was not smart enough to be a veterinarian, so I followed the love.

Can you tell us about your debut book, Cookie Queen? Why did you decide to embark on this project?

KK: Cookie Queen is an illustrated book about my life on the farm developing my signature cookie as a child. Lowey Bundy Sichol, a children’s book author, approached me about this project, and I thought it would be fun, especially since I have a lot of young nieces and nephews in my life. I hope the book inspires children to do their best, no matter what they are doing, and for parents to give their children more freedom to be creative at a younger age.

What’s your process for creating the perfect cookies?

KK: Everyone has their own idea of their perfect cookie. That is the interesting thing about taste—nothing is wrong, if you like it. For me, it’s all about flavor and texture. When I tested a new recipe at Tate’s, I would watch my staff try it. If they ate one and said it was good, that was not good enough for me. When I saw them keep going back because they couldn’t stop eating it, then I knew it was a winner.

Aside from the chocolate chip cookie at Tate’s, what are some of your favorite items or creations?

KK: Chocolate chip cookies are my first love, and honestly, they are still my favorite cookies. I am not sure how, after all these years! I love scones, brownies, chocolate cake, and blueberry crumb cake. Actually, it’s hard to choose—sometimes it is all about mood. But my desert island dessert is ice cream!

How and when did you get started with this business?

KK: I started baking cookies at my family farm, North Sea Farms. I went into business when I was twenty years old, with Kathleen’s Bake Shop, and after twenty years, I lost everything to a bad business decision. I started Tate’s Bake Shop, named after my dad, in August 2000, to re-create myself after I lost my name. I started with zero, but with the help of an amazing staff, supportive customers, and strategic steps forward, I was able to sell my business fifteen years later.

How has Tate’s evolved?

KK: Tate’s is the little engine that could. We started off as a small bakeshop in a beautiful little town, and because of the hardships of running a business in a seasonal area, we branched out to wholesale, first the East Coast, then the West Coast, then the Midwest. In time, we became a national cookie brand. During this growth, we maintained the same quality.

What’s your favorite pastime or favorite part about being located on the East End?

KK: My favorite pastimes are cycling, kayaking, paddle boarding, and hiding from the crowds.

What has been your greatest accomplishment working in this industry?

KK: My greatest accomplishment is the legacy I left behind with my customers and staff. I watched people, marry, have children, and then they had children, and I was part of their lives in a small way. I hope I added some joy to everyday life.

What is unique about Tate’s that can’t be found or replicated anywhere else?

KK: Tate’s is the first thin and crisp cookie on the market. When I see copycats, it makes me proud because that is the highest form of flattery.

What are you most looking forward to about the book signing at Tate’s in August?

KK: I dedicated my book to all my great-nieces and great-nephews, all under the age of seven. They will all be there, and that warms my heart.

Kathleen’s book even features an original recipe for molasses cookies inside. So, head out to Tate’s on August 6^th at 11:00 a.m. to grab some delicious baked goods and a signed copy of Cookie Queen!

The post Kathleen King’s Cookie Queen: How One Girl Started Tate’s Bake Shop is all About the Iconic Hamptons Bakery appeared first on Hamptons.com.

Elizabeth Castellano, New York native, draws heavy influence from the beach town way of living in her debut novel Save What’s Left, which will hit marketplaces on June 27th. She finds herself inspired by location and expresses that she could not have written this novel without having experienced the setting firsthand, making it a driving force for the storyline.

Save What’s Left is a work of humorous fiction, bringing an unexpected twist to the beach read genre. The novel is about a woman who relocates to a small beach town in hopes of finding solace, which is what one would come to expect of a small coastal town with a scenic setting. However, she soon finds herself in a neighborhood feud rather than taking in the peace she had initially hoped for.

Elizabeth spoke more about her idea and inspiration behind her debut novel, how her beach town upbringing influenced her, and what success means to her as an author.  

Congratulations on your debut novel Save What’s Left. Can you talk about the story behind it and where your inspiration came from to write this book? 

EC: Save What’s Left was inspired by many of my experiences growing up and living in a beach town. I liked the idea of turning the beach read on its head and providing a behind the scenes look from an insider’s perspective. There is a sense that everything is perfect in a beach town—that you will arrive and it will be paradise. But, in reality, beach towns are just small towns with a better view. There are meetings and committees and squabbles over picnic tables and parking permits and bad neighbors. And, in the end, everyone has to learn how to live with each other. 

What would you say is the main message or theme in Save What’s Left?

EC: Save What’s Left is really about what happens when our fantasies collide with reality and what occurs in the aftermath. It’s about finding happiness and purpose in unlikely places. The title Save What’s Left is a reference to the main character’s marriage and her sense of self. But, of course, it is also a nod to the environmental movement and the question of overbuilding in coastal communities, which is a main theme of the book. 

How would you describe your writing style?

EC: I have a very conversational and candid writing style. I want readers to feel like they are hearing from a friend and that my character is speaking directly to them. In Save What’s Left, the protagonist often engages with the reader directly, asking questions, checking in, and reassuring everyone that she too sees the irony and absurdity of her actions. There is a constant dialogue between the character and the reader. 

What is your process? Do you have a set writing schedule each day?

EC: I like to spend a good portion of my day complaining about writing. I think that really helps the process tremendously. I’ll think and complain and jot down little notes during the day and usually by the end of the night, I have sorted out what I want to say and I’ll get to work. I edit as I go. So, after each new sentence or two, I’ll go back to the top and either re-read or re-type the previous section. I also read what I’ve written out loud, which is embarrassing, but helpful.

I have a very haphazard index card method for outlining. If I don’t have the index cards, I’m lost. I’ve heard a lot of authors say that their characters speak to them and tell them which direction the story should go. I’m very jealous of this. My characters never speak to me. They don’t help me at all. It’s just me and the index cards. 

How do you define success as a writer?

EC: I think success as a writer is having some kind of impact on your readers, whether that be a new perspective, an escape, or just a laugh. 

Are there any authors or other creatives who have influenced you?

EC: Many. Nora Ephron, JD Salinger, Anna Quindlen, Calvin Trillin, David Sedaris are just a few. I studied theater in college and am very influenced by plays and playwrights, particularly when it comes to natural sounding dialogue. I’m almost always listening to music and, often, can get new ideas or perspectives from songs. I’m so impressed with people who can write music. I bought a book called “How To Write One Song.” So far, nothing. 

Does your location influence your writing in a significant way?

EC: Definitely. The location of Save What’s Left is at the heart of the story. The beach town setting isn’t just a beautiful backdrop. It is driving much of the action and plot. A lot of the novel focuses on the small nuances and details of daily life in a beach town. I couldn’t have written it without having been immersed in a similar environment.

 Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?

EC: It is possible. I think that’s the main thing. Not giving up is a big part of becoming an author. Also, I think it’s always best to write about something you care about or something that you feel needs to be said.

What’s your favorite pastime on the East End of Long Island?

EC: I guess my favorite pastime is arguing about parking restrictions and discussing pumpkin traffic. I also really love the blueberry muffins at Briermere Farms. 

Visit your local bookstore or online retailer for your copy of Save What’s Left to enjoy a hilarious beach read this summer in the Hamptons!

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