So what is the perfect gift for the the guy or gal who seems to have it all?  An experience they won’t forget.  The Let’s Go Flying Program, www.letsgoflying.com, has set up nationwide opportunities for introductory flight lessons to get the experience of being your own pilot (with of course a seasoned instructor by your side.)  This gives whole new meaning to wingman. 
Here at the East Hampton Airport Sound Aircraft Services offers the opportunity for $185 and gives you an hour of personal air time.
Our reporter Jennifer Seidun …

When the tryptophan haze wears off, you’ve successfully buried Aunt Rosemary’s fruit cake in the back yard, and you’re ready to put on your expandable waist pants and venture out into the world, the Hamptons have plenty to offer this weekend.  Get in the holiday spirit, shop for charitable causes, and get ready to dance off the pumpkin pie.

By Heather Buchanan
Santa has a new stylish spot to load up on goodies for all the naughty and nice girls, and guys too.
Just in time for the holiday season, Alex and Ani opens a new store in SoHo.  First introduced to the brand at Bridgehampton Polo, we loved the luxury experience with affordable prices.  With flagship locations in Newport, Boston, Palm Beach, Martha’s Vineyard and Rhode Island, and carried in the finest stores you might be surprised to know that the average …

SL EAST PARTNERS WITH EAST HAMPTON STUDIO AND OCEAN SOUND AND LIGHT TO HOST LIVE MUSIC DANCE PARTIES FEATURING
THE AREA’S BEST COVER BANDS EVERY SATURDAY FROM 9PM TO 12AM FOLLOWED BY DJ BIGGIE SPINNING ‘TIL CLOSE
NOVEMBER 19 WILL FEATURE THE BAND FULL HOUSE

HipHampton-istas know that our favorite four letter word is SALE.  Only more enticing when preceded by SPA.  There are a few specials this week at Top Hamptons Spas.

Photos courtesy of CIRCA – photo credits Billy Farrell Agency, Juan La Marca (polo shots)
By Heather Buchanan
If ever someone embodied the phrase “Go big or go home,” it would be Chris Del Gatto.  What started as a childhood fascination with the back room of a cousin’s jewelry store grew into a world leadership role in the jewelry business.  Chris Del Gatto founded CIRCA in 2001 which has become the leading global buyer of jewelry, diamonds, and watches from the public with offices all …

HIFF is ready for its close up.  Filmmakers are coming in from all over the world so this is your chance to explore the myriad of cinematic talents both virtuosos and fresh new voices.  The box office opens September 30th.  You can either stop by Design Within Reach in the parking lot behind Main Street in East Hampton or go online to buy tickets at www.hamptonsfilmfest.org.
INSIDER TIP:
The only way to get party tickets is by buying a pass, either the all-access Founders …

If ever there was a high end pu pu platter of the best of the Hamptons food and wine it could be found at Harvest East End.  The weekend long event dedicated to showcasing local food and wine proved definitively how important it is to protect and nurture our local farms and vineyards.  At the Festival Tasting at the Ludlow Farm in Bridgehampton, guests were enjoying their favorite nibbles and wine from local restaurants and vineyards but more importantly making new discoveries.
Distinguished …

As the weather begins to turn, jet setters start fueling up for their next destination.  We’ll be letting you in on some of our favorite travel spots and great deals here at HipHamptons.  Our pick for fall is the Brazilian Court Hotel & Beach Club in Palm Beach which is only two blocks from the ocean and a walk to Worth Avenue’s famous five star shopping.  Travel & Leisure’s World’s Best Hotels 2010 ranked them #1 in South Florida and #3 in …

What started as a one day local horse show with a lemonade stand has turned into the prestigious and elegant Hampton Classic where patrons can sip Louis Roederer Champagne Cristal ringside as the top grand prix show jumpers in the world compete.  As an ode back to the days when the show first grew to its 5 day rated status, a hurricane again derailed the show.  But in what is now called “miracle Monday” the entire show grounds were re-assembled in a …

Labor Day is time to play.  For everyone who has spent hours at their computer or inside an office or cursing Irene because you are still using baby wipes for a shower this is your chance to blow it out.  HipHamptons gives you pure pleasure permission.  Here are a few of our favorite things.

 
 
It was hard to tell whether it was the newest Ferraris or the beautiful brunettes which were turning heads at the entrance to the JetFlite International Southampton soiree, Only The Best, on Saturday.  The evening of Fashion, Ferraris, and Fun hosted by JFI Jets brought out the well-high-heeled set to enjoy the luxury brands JFI Jets has partnered with in their effort to elevate the jet set just a little higher.

On Saturday evening, WellNEST hosted the 1st annual MAMA GLOW Film Festival at WellNEST Studio, 51 Division Street in Sag Harbor, which raised funds for Every Mother Counts.
The evening began with Tender Shoots Wellness founder Latham Thomas and WellNEST co-founder Rachel Paletsky introducing the festivals first film, Christy Turlington-Burns’ No Woman, No Cry, by.  With more than 500,000 women dying each year during childbirth (90 percent of which are preventable deaths) this powerful film shares the stories of at-risk pregnant women in …

Proving that the Hamptons are mother’s favorite – Mother Nature that is — the threatened storms stepped aside for fabulous weather at the Hamptons Cup at Bridgehampton Polo on Saturday.  There was plenty of thunder, however on the CIRCA Championship field where team Equuleus faced team KIG and emerged victorious 7 – 5 with Kris Kampsen being crowned MVP.  Guests under the Blue Stars Jets VIP tent had the front row seat to the action.  Remember not only are the players galloping …

In part of their Make A Difference program Uptown Pilates is offering a special fundraising charity class on Tuesday Aug. 23 to benefit the Ronald McDonald House.  The class will be held at their Sag Harbor 126 Main Street location from 3:30 – 5pm and the $50 donation goes entirely to the charity.  The Ronald McDonald House is a national organization which provides housing for families of seriously ill children while they are getting treatment. 

“The dog days of summer” can be a beautiful thing in the Hamptons when you have animal welfare activists working tirelessly for their four legged friends.  Wayne Pacelle, President and CEO of the Humane Society of the United States launched his new book, The Bond: Our Kinship With Animals, Our Call to Defend Them, at Georgica Restaurant on Saturday.  Hosted by Amanda Hearst, Annie Churchill, and Frances Hayward the launch party treated guests to cocktails and vegan bites.

I have a few great loves in my life: dogs and jewelry and occasionally men.  Here’s the chance to combine my passions.  The Pet Project which will be held Friday August 19 at 6pm at London Jewelers in East Hampton benefits ARF, the Animal Rescue Fund.  There will be raffles and a silent auction and the chance to adopt a new love (four legged loves definitely, two legged loves we’ll see who shows up.)  They’ll have cocktails and shopping and pet portraits by …

Exhibit running from August 21 through October 9, 2011
Artists Choose Artists is the Parrish Art Museum’s second juried exhibition celebrating artists on the East End and the dynamic relationships that unite the area’s creative community. For this exhibition, seven distinguished East End artists served as jurors, each making two selections from 200 online submissions and subsequent studio visits. Artists Choose Artists will include painting, sculpture, photography, and video.

photo credit Jerritt Clark
Stilettos can be an effective weapon, either the small thin knife to slay an attacker, or the super sexy high heels which can slay Prince Charming.  The love/hate relationship women have with their high heels is the subject of Dr. Emily Splichal’s business.  “Dr. Legs” as she is known kicked up her heels in the Hamptons with her successful #1 fitness dvd’s Catwalk Confidence and Stiletto Recovery.  Dr. Splichal hosted the very first Catwalk Confidence & Dasha Wellness Hamptons Fitness & …

This Wednesday August 17 from 5 – 8pm Main Street and Newtown Lane in East Hampton will host Shop at Sunset to benefit The Retreat of East Hampton.  A percentage of proceeds from all sales will benefit The Retreat,  the East End Provider of safety, shelter and support to victims of abuse dedicated to breaking the cycle of family violence.  Shoppers will be treated to trunk shows, gifts with purchase, sips and snacks, music and more.

By Heather Buchanan
The 7th annual Authors Night to benefit East Hampton Library gathered enough literary talent under the big top tent to entertain, educate, and enlighten us for years to come.  As a card-carrying member of the East Hampton Library it was a pleasure to see the success of the fundraising event and the passion for reading more than “U R HOT.”

Beth Ostrosky Stern tosses out the ball in style. 
Aside from the excitement on the Circa Field, Bridgehampton Polo draws an interesting and eclectic crowd  – both spectators and sponsors.  Getting their inside story is half the fun.
We had the chance to catch up with Janera Soerel Program Director and Myra Magaletta Executive Director of Urban Zen which has a tent next to the Blue Star Jets VIP lounge.  They are using the opportunity for the foundation’s Hope, Help & Rebuild Haiti initiative.  …

The tres chic Lifestyle Boutique in Sag Harbor expanded their space this season to include women and men’s clothing and accessories.  On Saturday Aug. 13 from 1pm to 6pm J Brand fit specialists will be on hand to help you into your perfect pair of jeans.  Jean shopping is an all hands on deck experience to find the perfect flattering fit.  Whether we gals are having what we call a muffin top issue or a skinny girl day we can use all …

Catwalk Confidence & Dasha Wellness Introduce Hamptons Fitness/Wellness Fundraiser
 

East Hamptons fitness & wellness soiree to benefit Soles4Souls, hosted by PIX 11 Dr. Steve Salvatore
Saturday August 13 2p- 6p

Dr. Emily Splichal creator of the #1 posture and balance workouts “Catwalk Confidence” and “Stiletto Recovery” has partnered with Dasha Wellness to launch a luxury East Hamptons fitness & wellness soiree to benefit Soles4Souls on August 13, 2011.   The event will be hosted by PIX 11 Dr. Salvatore.

photo credit Suzanne DeChillo/the New York Times
Harboring Hearts will host its Summer Fête, sponsored by The Phoenix Foundation at The Paige Estate in Sag Harbor on Saturday, August 13th 2011 from 8:30 pm – 11:30 pm. Guests will be treated to dinner by Stone Rose and Benchmarc Events by Marc Murphy. Moët Hennessy will provide the night’s open bar.  Attendees will also receive complimentary admission to Harboring Hearts’ Official After-Party at AXE Lounge (1181 North Sea Rd, Southampton) beginning at midnight.   …

If you haven’t been over to the programs at Robert Wilson’s Watermill Center you are missing some of the best and most creative talent from around the world.  Always fascinating, these cutting edge artists who are either in residence to work on new projects or visiting for lectures thrill and delight and stretch the imagination.  Be sure to make reservations as these are highly in demand evenings.  Thursday August 11 the magnificent Eric Fischl reveals his creative process.

By Heather Buchanan
I’m the first one to play in the sandbox, dive down the rabbit hole, or pull the genie out of the bottle so when I had the chance to go through the Grey Goose Blue Door – I was the first one to arrive at the blue velvet rope.
Grey Goose Vodka launched their Blue Door series to celebrate the best in life, inviting guests into their Hamptons summer wonderland for a curated cultural experience.  Held in a private estate in …

The sculpture gardens of LongHouse Reserve in East Hampton are one of the most zen peaceful places in the Hamptons and now you have the chance to take in the view from Downward Dog.  Saturdays on August 13, 20, and 27th at 8am, you can bring your yoga mat and blanket and practice Integral Hatha Yoga with Tsuyumi Aikawa, a respected instructor of 30 years.  Aikawa brings a love of gardening and yoga together for the personal transformative experience — physical, mental, …

This Saturday, August 6th 4-6pm wellNEST Studio welcomes Terri Cole and her ”Live Fearless and Free” campaign!  
Terri is a life coach, psycho-therapist, natural comedienne,  an original member of the Kris Carr- Crazy Sexy Posse- co-authoring Crazy Sexy books, VH1 TV host, and won her own battle with cancer.  This will be a fun 2 hour event of motivation, movement, getting you out of your own way, and revamping your blue print of getting your life moving forward NOW.  Terri will be joined …

Bryan O’Leary at 4 North Main Street Gallery
Come check out the new works by this very talented artist. 
August 4 – 9 from 1p to 6p Daily
Opening Reception Friday August 5th from 5 – 9pm
1 North Main Street, Southampton 631-283-2495  www.4northmaingallery.com

Safe sex arrived in style in the Hamptons when the Trojan Good Vibrations Truck pulled into the Surf Lodge in Montauk during the SPIN Magazine Summer Concert series.   The truck brought treats of another good humor kind for the sophisticated young social set who rallied around the free giveaways.  Clearly the condom and cosmopolitan was the perfect complement.  Trojan is just launching a new line of vibrators so guests had the chance to find out ““What’s your vibe?” with the Trojan iPad vibes quiz.

 
By Heather Buchanan
You’ll never look at your tuna tartare in the same way again.
Ted Danson headlined the Hamptons Splash Party to benefit Oceana this Saturday July 30.  Guests enjoyed a lovely soiree at the luxurious oceanfront home of Margie and Michael Loeb.  With a starlit night where romantic couples could wander to our world class beaches and gaze at the Atlantic it was more apparent than ever how important it is to support Oceana which works to protect the world’s oceans.  As …

 
You know the summer is sizzlin’ hot when safe sex arrives by the truckload to the Hamptons.  Trojan is going to get things steamy when they arrive at the Surf Lodge in Montauk on Saturday.  We of course will be getting first hand information and will report back.
Trojan takes on New York’s “Food Truck” craze by bringing vibrators to the masses via the Trojan Good Vibrations Truck Tour
On Saturday, July 30th, the Hamptons will be buzzin’, as Trojan Brand Condoms brings the …

One of the great pleasures in life is having a true local bookstore you can visit and ask “Read anything good lately?” and they can tell you everything from children’s books to beach reads to biography to historical gems.  Canio’s Book Shop in Sag Harbor at Main Street retains the personal touch.  It is a true literary gathering place with readings from authors and poets.   Along with a calendar of authors they also display work from local artists .
Rob Calvert’s art work “Summer’s Time” new works on paper …

Ted Danson headlines the Hamptons Splash Party to benefit Oceana this Saturday July 30 in Southampton.  Get ready to kick off your shoes and dance the night away at a luxurious private oceanfront home in Southampton (i.e. leave the stilettos and wingtips at home).  With Hamptons beaches as one of our most prized assets it’s important to support Oceana which works to protect the world’s oceans.

There are a few magical moments in a Hamptons summer which embody true joie de vie.  The Cocktails at Sunset benefit for ACRIA at host Steven Klein’s West Kill Farms in Bridgehampton on Saturday was such an illuminating night.  Tiki torches with their flames aglow guided guests through fields to the tent surrounded by lanterns with a long lit lap pool and fire pits.  Another magical orange glow of the signature Veuve Clicquot bottles lined the bar along with the icy Belvedere …

By Heather Buchanan
While some elements of Bridgehampton Polo were familiar such as the lightning fast polo ponies which can turn on a dime, fearless players, and the beautiful Two Trees farm setting, others were new.  For the sophisticated spectator the Blue Star Jets VIP Tent and newly christened Circa Championship Field feltmore civilized with  a breath of fresh air (despite the sweltering heat.)
 
 

Peter Brant has taken the reins this year for the 15th anniversary season of Bridgehampton Polo and a new team, …

By Heather Buchanan
They say if you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen.  Yet a capacity crowd braved the heat on Saturday to enjoy the James Beard Foundation’s Chefs and Champagne® New York at the Wolffer Estate Vineyard in Sagaponack, tasting fare from 42 chefs from Amagansett to Anguilla and enjoying Wolffer Wines, Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte, and Stella Artois beers.  James Beard Foundation President Susan Ungaro said it best, “It may be hot but this is the coolest place to …

Bridgehampton Polo tosses out the first ball this Saturday at Two Trees Farm for a whole new sophisticated Hamptons experience.  It will now be the CIRCA Championship Field where high goal polo action will take place each Saturday from July 23rd to August 27th.  Under the Blue Star Jets VIP Tent, five hundred Hamptons tastemakers will be invited to view the matches while enjoying fine fare from notable chefs and specialty bars.  Fashion boutiques such as Alex and Ani and Monacle Order …

One of the defining cultural institutions in Southampton, the Parrish Art Museum brings out the Hamptons glitterati for its annual Midsummer Party with a mix of leaders in the art, fashion, and business world honoring the Parrish Art Museum’s Founding Partners.   The tent was aglow with its soothing silver scheme for the dapperly dressed crowd which morphed into the hot dance party After Ten.

Top ten reasons to attend the James Beard Foundation Chefs & Champagne® held at Wolffer Estate Vineyards on Saturday July 23
1)                  Hot Chefs – Emeril Lagasse is being honored.
2)                  Cold Bubbly – This year the Exclusive Champagne Sponsor is Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte – we’ve got a big crush on their Brut Rose.

3)                  Delectible Nibbles – Over 40 first class chefs will be offering tastes of their famous fare – note this is no time to wear white – designer bibs optional.

By Heather Buchanan
The Unconditional Love Cocktail Party held on Saturday at the gorgeous Southampton Lake Agawam home of Ellen & Chuck Scarborough to benefit the Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation proved that the dog days of summer in Southampton can be the very best.   The evening honored Karen LeFrak for her humanitarian contribution to the animal world.

Bastille Day arrived early on Shelter Island at La Maison Blanche with great panache: cold Gosset Champagne, hot Petanque players, a dash of French bistro fare and a pinch of ooh la la.
Raising money for the Shelter Island Lions Club, the Petanque Tournament was hosted by partners Alistair MacLean and John Sieni of La Maison Blanche, the new chic boutique hotel and restaurant (see our article).  Sponsored by Lillet, Gosset Champagne, and Ricard, the celebratory afternoon may have looked all fun and …

By Heather Buchanan
If anyone has information leading to the retrieval of the missing lobster mascot for Banzai Burger “Kobe the Lobster” it might be worth a $1000 Banzai Burger tab.  It’s one thing to steal home base or even your buddy’s girlfriend but dude, don’t steal the lobster! 
Banzai Burger on the Nappeague stretch in Amagansett has been winning raves for its food which range from fine fare and yes the ultimate burger from Argentinian Chef Alan Hughes and Sushi Chef Isao Yoshimura.  And …

 By Heather Buchanan
Guest photos by Patrick McMullan
The 12th annual Love Heals at Luna Farm raised more than $300,000 for the Alison Gertz Foundation for AIDS Education on Saturday in Sagaponack.  The stylish young social set of the Hamptons came out to support the cause and enjoy the Coney Island Comes to the Hamptons theme, proving that you can absolutely mix Chandon sparkling wine with Nathan’s hot dogs.  Guests flocked to the Patron Margarita Bar and rollercoaster photo booth where a wind machine …

With a record crowd of 1600 the Empire State Pride Agenda’s Hamptons Tea Dance 2011 was the Hamptons hot spot on Saturday.  DJ Lady Bunny who still has the best legs in the business had the dance floor packed, and there was the distinct smell of victory in the air. 
ESPA Board of Directors Co-Chair Louis A. Bradbury commented, “In nineteen years this is the best one.  Not only is it the spectacular weather but the excitement of everyone coming together to celebrate.”

In its fourth year ArtHamptons has become a major fixture of the international fine arts scene.  With 60 galleries from 10 countries exhibiting post war and contemporary art, ArtHamptons offers the connaisseur and novice alike a vast array of interesting works to view and purchase.  
Gallery owners and artists are on hand to discuss the works so seek them out.  Also check out the special events such as film screenings, book signings, and special receptions. 

Love Heals at Luna Farm hosted by Hilary Rhoda, Mary Alice Stephenson and Peter Davis transforms a Sagaponack farm field into a summer playground with “Coney Island Comes to the Hamptons.”  Benefiting the Alison Gertz Foundation for AIDS Education, this annual event attracts the best and brightest of the young social set who come out to support the cause.  With music by DJ M.O.S., a finger lickin’ barbeque, tasty libations, sweet treats, and dancing under the stars – it’s an evening not …

Honoring the Founding Partners of the New Parrish Art Museum
Here’s where sophistication meets serious summer fun.  A highlight of the social season, the Parrish Art Museum’s Midsummer Party attracts the well –heeled crowd who wish to support one of the Hamptons most important cultural institutions.  The social who’s who includes illustrious artists, writers, media figures, and leaders of business and finance.  And for the younger jet set, the After Ten Party is illustrious.  More than one high power couple have met under …