Lifestyle
Hosting Ideas: Spring Edition
I’m so excited to put the cold days of winter behind us and get back to outdoor entertaining season! Here is a list of ideas for planning an event, including food, drinks, dessert, flowers, decor, where to shop for a dress, and more!
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with 21 Seeds
Cinco de Mayo is coming up! Whether you are hosting an event, attending a party, or hanging out at home, here are some ideas to make the day extra festive!
Helping Moms Feel Their Best: Insights from Dr. Chris Devulapalli
Meet Dr. Chris Devulapalli, a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in breast and body procedures. Based at Specialized Plastic Surgery in Westchester, Dr. Devulapalli combines advanced surgical expertise with a genuine passion for helping patients feel confident and comfortable in their own skin.
Family Travel Expert Jamie Leahy Shares Why Casa de Campo Resort & Villas Is a Dream Destination for Families
We consulted Jamie Leahy, a top Luxury Travel Advisor and independent affiliate of Elli Travel, on why using a Travel Advisor is helpful—and to learn more about one of her favorite family-friendly travel destinations: Casa de Campo Resort & Villas in the Dominican Republic. If you’re thinking about planning your next trip, this is a great place to start.
Meet a Mom: Annie Guill Bollet, Chief Operating Officer of ArtStar
Meet Annie Guill Bollet, a Sound Shore mom and the Chief Operating Officer of ArtStar, an online platform making contemporary art more fun, accessible, and inspiring. With a background in the art world and a passion for bringing joyful, colorful pieces into people’s homes, she’s helping redefine the way we experience art.
Girls’ Trip to Scottsdale, AZ
If you’re planning a girls’ trip and want sunshine, scenery, and just the right mix of fun and relaxation, Scottsdale, Arizona delivers in a big way. Whether you’re into delicious brunch spots, pool parties, dancing at clubs, catching live music at casual venues, or hiking through stunning desert landscapes, there’s something for everyone.
Meet Amie Pisano, Real Estate Agent at Compass
We’re beyond excited to welcome Amie Pisano to the Sound Shore Moms team as our go-to real estate expert! Amie will be keeping us in the know on everything happening in the local market—from real estate trends and housing updates to insider tips on buying, selling, and making the most of life in the Sound Shore area.
Kids Sleep: Spring Break Travel Tips
Whether you have a baby or big kid, children not sleeping well mean parents aren’t sleeping well – and that’s not good for anybody. Below, Lauren Wolf, a Certified Infant and Child Sleep Consultant behind Lolo Lullaby, shares her best Spring kids sleep tips, in particular for Daylight Savings and travel.
Meet Gwenn Snider, Cofounder of Luxury Family Travel Resorts, Little Gem!
Get to know the mom behind these luxury family-friendly resorts!
Why Sleepaway Camp is such a Valuable Investment in Your Child’s Future!
For those who grew up going to sleepaway camp, many will say it was one of their most formative life experiences! For those who didn’t grow up going to sleepaway camp, many wonder why it’s such a compelling summer choice, and often question parents sending their children away, when summer can be such a special time for families to be together. As kids become increasingly reliant on technology – and parents become increasingly focused on giving their children the chance to unplug, the desire to better understand all that sleepaway camp has to offer has risen. The Pierce Family runs Camp Birchmont in New Hampshire, a premier, coed sleepaway camp with 3, 4 and 7 week options, and we are so grateful for their perspective on why sleep away camp is one of the best decisions you can make for your child today!
Meet a Mom: Monica of Monica Chimes Floral
Meet Monica Chimes, the creative force behind Monica Chimes Floral, a Westchester-based floral and event design studio. She started out in a small flower shop in Mount Vernon and has since built a thriving business, bringing beauty to some of the area’s most stunning venues. Monica shares her journey, design philosophy, and expert floral tips for busy moms who want to add effortless elegance to their homes.
Meet a Mom: Melissa Tomlin, Founder of 914PopUps
Meet Melissa Tomlin, the founder of 914PopUps! A Westchester-based entrepreneur with a passion for supporting small businesses, Melissa has built a thriving platform that brings together local vendors through curated pop-up events.
Meet Mark Fekete, Owner of Elevate Tanning & Wellness
Meet Mark Fekete, owner of Elevate Tanning Wellness Retreat in Mamaroneck, where clients can enjoy a unique blend of tanning, red light therapy, weight loss treatments, and wellness services designed to help them look and feel their best.
Alaska in the Summer: What to Know Before You Go
Dreaming of an Alaskan adventure? From breathtaking glaciers to unexpected twists, here are my tips for making the most of your trip.
A Perfect Summer Escape: The Cove at Sylvan Beach
There’s nothing quite like summer in the North East, and I can’t tell you how excited I was when I found The Cove at Sylvan Beach. It checked every box for a perfect family vacation! Located just four hours from the Sound Shore area of Westchester, NY the drive was an absolute breeze.
Join the “I Love LA” Fundraiser to Support Teachers Affected by Wildfires
A group of Westchester women with strong ties to Los Angeles have come together to host the “I Love LA” Fundraiser, an event dedicated to supporting teachers who have lost their homes and schools in the recent wildfires.
Meet Dr. Kate Chittenden, Psychologist at Clear Mind Psychology
We spoke with Dr. Kate Chittenden, psychologist at Clear Mind Psychology. She shares her insights on supporting children’s mental health, helping them build resilience, and recognizing early signs that therapy may be beneficial. She also provides practical techniques families can use to manage stress together. Read on for her expert advice!
9 Simple Ways to Feel Instantly Happier This Winter
Winter in Westchester can feel long, cold, and dark, with shorter days often sapping our energy and mood. But there are simple, science-backed ways to beat the winter blues and bring some light—literally and figuratively—into your life. Whether you’re battling Seasonal Affective Disorder or simply looking to feel more energized, these tips will keep your spirits high through the season.
Meet Laura Hersh, Founder of Training with Laura
Meet Laura Hersh, a Certified Personal Trainer (NASM) and Group Fitness Instructor (AFAA), and the founder of Training with Laura. Her journey began with a focus on helping local moms build core strength and has since evolved into a thriving business that empowers her clients to feel strong and energized. Laura shares her story, how she balances fitness and family, her advice for busy moms, and her favorite spots in the Sound Shore area.
Meet Bridget DiDonato, Director of Harrison Pollinator Pathway
Bridget DiDonato, director of the Harrison Pollinator Pathway, is on a mission to protect pollinators and inspire our community to embrace the beauty and benefits of native plants. She shares her journey, the importance of pollinators, and how local families can get involved.