Create Your Own Relaxing Backyard Oasis: Tips for Hamptons Homeowners

If you're a Hamptons homeowner looking to create a tranquil outdoor space that you can enjoy all summer long, you're in luck! With a little bit of planning and effort, you can transform your backyard into a relaxing oasis that will provide you with a peaceful retreat from the stresses of daily life. Here are some tips for creating a backyard oasis in your Hamptons home:

  1. Choose the right outdoor furniture: Comfortable and stylish outdoor furniture is essential for creating a relaxing backyard oasis. Consider investing in high-quality seating options like lounge chairs, hammocks, and a dining table and chairs for outdoor meals.

  2. Add some greenery: Incorporating plants and flowers into your backyard can help to create a calming atmosphere. Choose low-maintenance plants that can thrive in the Hamptons' coastal climate, like lavender, rosemary, and succulents.

  3. Create a focal point: Whether it's a water feature, a fire pit, or a sculpture, having a focal point in your backyard can help to anchor the space and create a sense of tranquility.

  4. Install lighting: Outdoor lighting can help to create a cozy atmosphere in your backyard and make it easier to enjoy the space after the sun goes down. Consider installing string lights, lanterns, or even a chandelier to add a touch of elegance to your outdoor space.

  5. Incorporate water elements: Whether it's a pool, a hot tub, or a fountain, incorporating water elements into your backyard can help to create a calming atmosphere. The sound of running water can be especially soothing, so consider adding a small waterfall or pond to your backyard.

  6. Make it comfortable: Don't forget the little touches that can make your backyard oasis truly comfortable. Consider adding outdoor pillows and blankets, an outdoor rug, and even an outdoor sound system to create the ultimate relaxing environment.

By following these tips, you can transform your Hamptons backyard into a peaceful retreat that you'll love spending time in all summer long. Whether you're hosting a barbecue or just enjoying a quiet moment with a book, your backyard oasis will provide you with the perfect space to unwind and recharge.

Springtime Bird Watching in the Hamptons: A Guide to the Best Places and Birds

Springtime in the Hamptons is a magical time of year. As the snow melts away and the weather warms up, the natural world comes to life with a burst of color and activity. One of the best ways to experience this seasonal transformation is by bird watching. The Hamptons, located on the eastern end of Long Island, New York, is home to a diverse range of bird species. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best places and birds to see while bird watching in the Hamptons in the springtime.

Best Places for Bird Watching in the Hamptons

  1. Montauk Point State Park: This state park is located at the easternmost point of Long Island and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. It is also a popular spot for bird watching, especially during the spring migration season when a wide variety of species can be seen.

  2. Shinnecock Bay: This bay, located on the south shore of Long Island, is a great place to observe shorebirds, wading birds, and waterfowl. The bay is also an important stopover site for migrating birds.

  3. Quogue Wildlife Refuge: This 300-acre nature preserve is home to a diverse range of habitats, including forests, ponds, and fields. It is a great place to observe songbirds, raptors, and waterfowl.

  4. Elizabeth A. Morton National Wildlife Refuge: This 187-acre refuge is located in Sag Harbor and is home to a variety of bird species, including ospreys, herons, and egrets. It also has a boardwalk trail that provides excellent views of the surrounding wetlands.

Best Birds to See in the Hamptons in Spring

  1. Warblers: During the spring migration season, a wide variety of warblers can be seen in the Hamptons. Some of the most common species include the yellow warbler, black-and-white warbler, and magnolia warbler.

  2. Ospreys: The Hamptons is home to a large population of ospreys, which can be seen nesting on telephone poles and other structures throughout the area. These majestic birds of prey are known for their distinctive white heads and impressive wingspans.

  3. Shorebirds: The Hamptons is home to a wide variety of shorebirds, including sandpipers, plovers, and terns. These birds can often be seen feeding along the beaches and in the shallow waters of bays and estuaries.

  4. Raptors: The Hamptons is also home to a variety of raptors, including hawks, eagles, and falcons. These birds of prey can often be seen soaring overhead or perched on telephone poles and other structures.



Bird watching in the Hamptons in the springtime is a truly special experience. With its diverse range of habitats and bird species, there is always something new and exciting to discover. Whether you're a seasoned birder or a beginner, the Hamptons is a great place to connect with nature and observe the beauty of the natural world. So grab your binoculars, put on your walking shoes, and head out into the great outdoors to experience the magic of bird watching in the Hamptons in the springtime.

Keeping Tulips Vibrant, Longer

As spring unfolds and flowers start to bloom, tulips are a beloved favorite in kitchens across The Hamptons. However, tulips are also known to be particularly tricky when it comes to keeping them fresh and vibrant in a vase.

Here are some tips to help you keep your tulips looking their best for as long as possible.

Trim the Stems

When you first bring your tulips home, it's important to trim the stems at an angle. This allows for better water absorption and helps keep the tulips hydrated. Make sure to use a sharp, clean pair of scissors or garden shears to avoid damaging the stems.

Use Cold Water

Tulips prefer cold water, so make sure to fill your vase with cool water, rather than warm or hot. Even add a couple ice cubes. It's also helpful to change the water every day or two to prevent bacterial growth and keep the water fresh.

Add Some Nutrition

Tulips benefit from the addition of flower food or a homemade mixture of sugar and vinegar. The sugar provides nutrients for the flowers, while the vinegar helps prevent bacterial growth. Another trick is to add a penny or a copper coin to the water, as the copper can act as a natural fungicide.

Keep Them Cool

Tulips prefer cooler temperatures, so try to keep them away from direct sunlight or heat sources. You can also place them in the fridge overnight to help extend their lifespan.

Avoid Crowding

Tulips can be sensitive to overcrowding, so make sure to give them plenty of space in the vase. If you have a large bouquet, consider splitting them into smaller arrangements or using multiple vases.

With these tips in mind, you can enjoy the beauty of tulips in your home for as long as possible. Try experimenting with different colors and varieties to add a touch of spring to any room.

Winter Romance in the Hamptons

It is a bleak 15 degrees this week and a blizzard is looming. All the more reason to think ahead to a cozy dinner date out for Valentines Day.

Here are some of our favorite winter spots that bring on the romance:

  1. Nick & Tonis— It’s a classic for a reason. Normally closed on Mondays this time of year, they’ll be opening up with a special menu for Valentines Day.

  2. Scarpetta at Gurneys— Gurneys isn’t top of mind in the winter, but if you head to your reservation early you can cozy up with a drink and a blanket by the fire pit overlooking the ocean. A romantic change of pace!

  3. 1770 House— We love it here in the winter. The roaring fire in the tavern and intimate environments oozes of romance.

  4. Barons Cove— Not our favorite spot for dinner, but a lovely spot for a drink and snack. What’s better than a fireplace and a cocktail as the sunsets?

  5. Cove Hollow Tavern— Often forgotten, we love this restaurant for its delicious food and cozy environment— as well as a welcome change of pace from our usual spots.

Holiday Activities for Everyone

Christmas is just about a week away! And there are plenty of fun activities happening in The Hamptons for everyone.

Here are our top picks for things to do leading up to Santa’s Big Day.

 

Decorate Cookies at Amber Waves Farm

The farm is really dressed up for the season! Head over to the farm on Saturday December 18th for some festive cookie decorating for kids of all ages.

Visit Wölffer Estate

The estate is so gorgeous this time of year! Enjoy a flight of their delicious wine while enjoying their seasonal decor and the rows of vines lit up for the holidays.

Visit the Lighthouse

The hike out to the point is well worth the gorgeous holiday sight of seeing the lighthouse lit up from head to toe! Not to be missed this year after its hiatus in 2020.

Write Letters to Santa

Make sure the kids get their letters to Santa! Spend a morning writing special letters and dropping them off to Santa’s special mailbox on Newtown Lane in East Hampton Village.

Holiday Storytime

Cozy up for a special holiday story time at the Southampton Library. Monday, December 20, 10:15 a.m. Preregistration is required.

Hamptons Beach Day Essentials

If you’re a millennial or older, you’ll probably love these suggestions. If you’re a Gen Z-er… you might want to find a different source. ;)

Here’s everything you need for the perfect Hamptons Beach Day:

 
  • THE BAG:

    • You can’t go wrong with a classic straw bag with leather straps. They’re classics for a reason.

  • THE SPF

    • Go organic or local here. I love @coola because it’s organic, smells amazing and has options for your face. @veridatta has a great face SPF that comes in various tints for your skin tone. And Hamptons Sun is a local favorite.

  • THE FLIP FLOPS

    • Keep it simple and chic. Save your espadrilles for dinner and go for something a little nicer than Havanas.

  • THE HAT

    • There is a hat the new shop in East Hampton, ONE, that I can’t stop thinking about! It’s a French retro straw hat with a gorgeous white silk bow on the back. Straw hats are classic, but steer clear of a hat with embroider words on the rim. (That’s something Gen Z & I can agree on)

  • THE SHADES

    • Lots of different classics here, but you can’t go wrong with Ray Bans or a Classic wide, black frame.

  • THE TOWEL

    • Turkish beach towels are awesome. Most are sand resistant so again, less sand in your car.

  • THE COVER UP

    • You can’t go wrong with linen here. It’s classy, classic and also light weight.

  • THE SUIT

    • Put fashion aside for a second and go for something you feel confident in! You can make a statement here or go for something understated like a white one piece.

  • THE DRINK

    • Fresh green juice or rosé? Maybe both! Whatever it is, leave the glassware at home and opt for a @yeti

  • THE FUN

    • Beach games, a bluetooth speaker, a juicy beach read— these are all essential! Plan accordingly for your group or if you’re going solo.


What do you think? Is there anything you would add?

Leave me a comment... I’d love to hear!


best Hamptons Farm Stands & Markets

I went to Balsam the other day for the first time since 2019! Last year, Aurora was a newborn and it was just too much to wait in line with her in the sun. 

SO this year, I plan to do all the cute mom things I had dreamed of doing with my baby before the pandemic changed my plans. A lot of these dreams are simple and just require me putting her in a baby carrier and taking her to a farm stand or farmers market and picking out fresh flowers, berries and other local goodies. 

These are my favorite Farm Stands and Markets I can’t wait to take her!

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Balsam Farm

I did this solo the other day, so I can’t wait to bring her back and have her help me pick out her favorite veggies and flowers. I’m also looking forward to going to their Montauk location! 

Sag Harbor Farmers Market

A staple in the community! I’m looking forward to a nice day in Sag, stroll along the wharf and hitting up the market.


Amber Waves Farm

This is a special spot for Joe & I! One of our first dates, he and I picked wildflowers in the field.  I hope to do that with Aurora soon too! Either way, their farm stand is one of the best! 

East Hamptons Farmers Market

Another local favorite which now is operating from Herrick Park in the Village Fridays AND Sundays.

Round Swamp Farm

I have to admit, I rarely buy produce here! I’m usually grabbing the guacamole salad and grilled shrimp…along with baked goods I just can’t resist!

Springs Farmers Market

In all my years here, I’ve never been because I usually am working on Saturdays. This year we will definitely be making a stop! 

What am I missing that I need to check out? Which farm stand or farmers market is your favorite? Leave me a comment— I’d love to hear! 

The Perfect Amagansett Day

The Perfect Amagansett Day

If you’ve been following me on Instagram, you’d know that this summer I’m all about the “Cute Mom Summer” (as opposed to hot girl summer). 

All I want to do is all the things I couldn’t do last year because I was a new mom, in a pandemic and kind of drowning in all that new mom stuff.

This summer, I’m feeling more myself and so looking forward to all the cute mom stuff I missed out on with my tiny baby. 

Here’s my idea of a perfect Amagansett Day: 

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Start off with exercise:

Whether that’s a long walk to Indian Wells or Yoga in the Square with Mandala. Getting moving first thing is always the way I love to start my day. 

Coffee Stop:

Jack’s isn’t the only spot to stop any more— give Rosie’s a try or even Amber Waves. Il Buco is just moving in and it looks like they’ll have a coffee spot next door to the restaurant. 

Amber Waves:

Stop by the farm for some groceries, mini bottles of Summer in Bottle and fresh flowers. They’ve even got some grab & go options for lunch. 

Hang in the Square:

If you’re a mom, there will likely be plenty of other mamas with babies and kiddos running around. Bring a blanket a few toys and just relax! I love doing this when it’s not quite beach weather. 

Dinner with Wine or Beer:

If you’re a wine lover, of course Wolffer Kitchen is for you. If you’d prefer beer, head over to the Main Street Tavern Beer Garden. 

What’s your favorite thing to do in Amagansett? 




Read this BEFORE Hiring a Real Estate Agent

Deciding to work with a real estate agent is an important decision—after all they’ll be representing you in a life changing exchange.

If you were my best friend coming to me for advice on how to hire a real estate agent here in the Hamptons, here are three questions I'd tell you to ask everyone you're considering for the job:

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What’s your communication style?

When you are working to buy or sell a home, you are going to hear from your real estate agent a lot. You want to make sure you figure out how to communicate from day one. Some people want their agent texting them at 10pm—others would prefer all email.

 

How do you react under pressure?

It happens…deals start to fall apart. It matters most how your agent can navigate those waters, deal with the stress and work to keep the deal together. You want someone who is level-headed and works well under pressure.

 

How wide is your network?

Now this can vary greatly depending on brokerage. There are many smaller companies that might not have a reach of a bigger company like Douglas Elliman. When selling a luxury home, especially in the Hamptons, you are trying to reach as many potential buyers as possible…and chances are, they might not live here. I love that I have a global network of agents at my fingertips because of our offices in luxury markets.


Be sure to ask these questions before signing a contract with an agent and your chances of a successful partnership will go way up.

 

What do you think – is there another question you'd ask?

Leave a comment below!

 

Opening this Season

I always love the anticipation of new restaurants each season. I know that a lot of people hate how quickly things turn over and locals wish big city restaurants would stop pushing out the small guys.

But honestly, I love it all.

I love the anticipation... the he-said-she-said... I love driving by a space trying to figure it out as they transform it into something new.

I love trying it for the first time and trying to guess how successful they’ll be.

Here are three new spots I’ve had my eye on that I can’t wait to check out this summer:

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

La Fin Kitchen, Montauk

In the Swallow East spot on the docks, this place looks beautifully done and with delicious food! Maybe it’s just that I’m older & not partying as much, but I’m excited to check out the new, more upscale residents in this MTK hot spot.

East Hampton Point

This one is under new ownership and getting a major facelift. Driving by, they’re gutting the hotel rooms and based on their website it looks like THREE different restaurants are taking shape. Fingers crossed at least one has better food and service than the last restaurant to live there. (IYKYK)

Rita Cantina

Going in the beloved Michael’s spot right by Maidstone park in Springs— their sign promises happy hours, bonfires and tacos. From the looks of it, another gut renovation inside and I can’t wait to try it out. Rumor is they’re opening Memorial Day Weekend!

 

Which one are you excited to try? Any others you’ve heard of that I should know?✨

Leave me a comment below!

The BEST time to travel to The Hamptons

Just like anything, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. This is even more true when planning a trip to The Hamptons. There are many different sides to The Hamptons and each person tends to have their own preference.

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If you want to experience The Hamptons that you read about & watch on TV

Your best bet is to visit during peak weekends. (Think Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Labor Day). This is when venues are throwing parties, beaches are buzzing and you will meet others here just for the weekend as well.

If you want to experience the natural beauty, good restaurants, and shopping, but really would prefer to avoid the crowds and traffic

Try for June. Everything is open for the season but a lot of seasonal renters have not fully moved out because of schools still being in session.

If you want to see The Hamptons like a local, you'll want to go in the spring or fall.

A lot of seasonal businesses may be closed, but enough are open to make the experience fun and memorable. You won't be sun bathing on the beach, but you'll definitely be able to take a beach walk or catch a beautiful sunset.

Plus hotel & rental prices are a bit more reasonable.

And to experience a totally different & magical side of The Hamptons, visit in December

Yes it will be cold (it is NY after all), but all of the villages are dressed up for the holidays and you will experience a cozy side to life by the sea. Find a hotel or restaurant with a fireplace or fire pit and cozy up with a cocktail.

Which sounds like YOUR ideal time to be in the Hamptons?

Top Three Favorite Spots for Oysters

Spring has certainly arrived in the Hamptons— which means it’s just about time for [comfortable] outside dining & rose.

On a warm sunny day, all we’re craving is seafood by the water!

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These are our three favorite spots for oysters:

Little Creek Oysters

Nothing like a little daytrip to Greenport for some Oysters! I love this place because you can learn to shuck your own, enjoy a bloody mary and enjoy the company of the sweet older gentleman behind the bar. Anyone know his name?

Duryeas Lobster Deck

Weekday afternoons right around 5pm. No crowds and the most spectacular view of the sun dancing on the water. Makes me want to linger for hours! (But then the crowds do come, so we leave:))

Bostwicks on the Harbor

If you're lucky to get a spot along the rail, it's the most perfect place to watch the boats sail around sunset--while, of course, enjoying freshly shucked oysters.

Those are our three favorite spots!

What are yours? Any great oyster spots we’re missing? Any new spots opening this season?