Water has always been the element of emotion, and for those on the East End of Long Island it represents everything from sports to commercial fishing to drinking water to moving meditation.  This rich and valued relationship inspired Nicole Delma of the Fond Group to create a new section called Air, Land & Sea for the Hamptons International Film Festival (HIFF) which runs from October 6th through October 10th, 2016.  The goal is to tap into film as a story telling method to …

Photos BFA.com
Architecture in the Hamptons is a voyeur’s pleasure.  Architect Roger Ferris known both for his inventive and groundbreaking modern design of the famed Bridge Golf Club Clubhouse and Topping Rose House renovation gives us a chance to peek inside his buildings in his new book.
 
In celebration of, Inventive Minimalism: The Architecture of Roger Ferris + Partners, Roger Ferris held a special gathering at The Bridge.  You never say no if you have an invitation to this private club with its stunning …

Where can you experience rejuvenating kundalini yoga, meditation for people who cannot stop thinking, soulful funky reggae, shamanic healings, reiki, thai messge, organic cooking classes, a special village just for kids and a sacred sound gong circle….all in one place?
Hamptons YogaFest returns August 26 – 28 at Hayground School in Bridgehampton.
Building on last year’s inaugural gathering, the 2nd Annual Hamptons YogaFest will unite yogis, artists, musicians, children, healers and visionaries from the local community and beyond.   See the complete schedule here.

By Heather Buchanan
 
While it was a beautiful summer evening at the home of Robin and Robert Leacock, the air was filled with snow birds.  A luscious cocktail party with delicious nibbles from Sant Ambroeus gathered together nature enthusiasts to support the Audubon Islands Sanctuary in Palm Beach.  Campion & Tatiana Platt, Katie Carpenter and Robin Melanie Leacock hosted the fundraiser.
Katie Carpenter explained of the project, “There are six precious island full of natural vegetation in the Lake Worth Lagoon.  Audubon said we’d …

As soon as you enter into the gardens at LongHouse Reserve in East Hampton, you are transported to a magical place of peace and tranquility surrounded by gorgeous gardens and sculpture. Think of it as nature’s Valium.  At their recent benefit, Serious Moonlight, a chic crowd came out to support LongHouse and its many programs.  Artists, philanthropists, socialites, and just cool people turned up in fantastic fashion and also were wowed by the silent auction.

Attention all ye suffering from stress, muffin tops, bad attitudes, and I’m fine I’ll just have another pint of Ben & Jerry’s.  This is the time to pull your body, mind and soul together.  A great way to kick start this is with Hamptons Wellness Week June 5th to 12th .  You can get discounts or free fitness classes so it’s time to cheat on your normal routine and try something new.  There are also special healthy food, coaching, and beauty offers …

Photos Christopher Wells
Buyers in the Hamptons want the ultimate experience in their own home be it a private golf course, equestrian center, full spa, helipad, bowling alley, or even a roof top tennis court.
Architect Philip Rossillo and Builder John DeVito of 456 Development Group launched their latest project, 100 Crescent, during a Sunset Cocktail Party to benefit Autism Speaks on Saturday, August 22, 2015 in Water Mill, New York.  In this case the roof top cocktail venue was a tennis court.
You might …

Whether you are throwing a fancy party for forty, intimate dinner for six – or just want to enjoy them vicariously – you have to pick up Hamptons Entertaining: Creating Occasions to Remember. Philanthropist, author and hostess with the mostest Annie Falk dishes up moveable feasts with recipes, table settings, and entertainment tips included.  In her book you will board a luxury yacht, enter an enchanted garden, and stroll down to the ocean for a moonlit dinner. 

With the traffic, crowds, meltdowns over egg white omelets at delis and more mindless entitlement than the court of Louis XIV, there is one oasis in the Hamptons guaranteed to ensure serenity – the LongHouse Reserve. This sixteen acre oasis of verdant sculpture gardens and exhibits can calm even the most extreme type A personality. At their annual fundraiser “On Gossamer Wings,” guests were greeted with the soothing sound of strings, a cold glass of champagne, and a luxurious walk through beautifully …

There are a few magical moments when the Hamptons transform into a worthy wonderland – namely the best Hamptons fundraisers.   These fantastic events not only raise money for various causes but create memorable evenings.   Think of it as tax deductible decadence.
A few HipHamptons tips:

Find out how you can get involved beyond writing a check.
Ladies remember flats and wedges are your friends. Stilettos only work if you are aerating a lawn.
Silent Auctions are goldmines of great items at discount prices.
Bring your business card …

By Heather Buchanan
Photos By Mike Heller
There was something in the air at Stony Hill Stables on Saturday as a team of girls in pink shirts lined up and mounted their ponies, faces determined as they headed to the ring.  That something was confidence.
For young women and men, the bond formed with horses gives them a foundation of trust, responsibility and communication. Horses and the Hamptons go together but the costs of riding can make it feel like a tale of two cities. …

Admit it – we are all commitment phobes — we worry that our boyfriend, hair dresser or favorite class instructor is going to see us stepping out with someone else.  But after all isn’t life meant to be a Pu Pu Platter?  Snow White knew why settle for one guy when you could have seven.  If you want to try a healthy variety of work outs and healthy living options here’s a new model.
The news: FITRESERVE— an elevated fitness-booking membership that provides …

 Stony Hill Stables of Amagansett, owned and operated by the Hotchkiss family for more than five decades, is proud to announce the annual Benefit for the Stony Hill Stables Foundation. Now in its fourth year, the Benefit Cocktail Party for the Stony Hill Stables Foundation will be held on the evening of Saturday, June 20, from 6pm – 8pm on the pastoral grounds of Stony Hill Stables, located in Amagansett on bucolic Town Lane. Attendees will enjoy a special Dressage Exhibition performed …

A staple of the Hamptons summer social scene is saying so long. Bridgehampton Polo pretty much had the rug or in this case turf pulled out from under them. High goal development has trumped their high goal play. Polo enthusiasts however may find other avenues for single match events or head to Greenwich for top tournaments.

Live music in the Hamptons is one of summer’s sweet pleasures. It’s music with a view as these live performances are in some of the Hamptons most picturesque settings be it a beach, vineyard, lawn, or café. Here are some HipHamptons favorites.

2014 East Hampton House & Garden Tour
Benefiting the East Hampton Historical Society,
Cocktails and Tour Welcome in the Holiday Season

Opening Night Cocktail Party: Friday, November 28 (6 – 8:30 p.m.)
House Tour: Saturday, November 29 (1 – 4:30 p.m.)

The East Hampton Historical Society is proud to announce its 2014 House & Garden Tour, showcasing some of the finest examples of architecture in the Hamptons.  This year’s tour – comprising five noteworthy homes & gardens – is scheduled …

Long Island Sportsmanship Award Marks
Hampton Classic Opening Day
More than 1,500 horses gather for week-long competition

Bridgehampton, NY, Aug. 24, 2014 – Highlighting the opening ceremonies at the 39th Hampton Classic Horse Show was the presentation of the Long Island Sportsmanship Award, given annually to a Long Island horseperson who has demonstrated excellence in sportsmanship over a long period of years.
Show President Dennis Suskind and Vice …

Ariat has been winning over devoted equestrian fans with its fashion forward design and high performance technology, appealing to all levels of riders.  One of Ariat’s keys to success is that it is designed by riders for riders with an intrinsic understanding of form, function and style.  However even non-equestrians are getting in on the flattering designs which translate from saddle to soiree. Ariat’s denim breeches are crossing over from a day of riding to a night of fun.  Their special Core …

A summer ritual is to hear Hamptons live music in the great outdoors.  The number one Montauk destination, Surf Lodge, is concluding their summer ticketed concert series with a performance by Sky Ferreira on Sunday, August 24th.  The 200 tickets are exclusively available through eBay Giving Works through August 18th for the private concert.  Tickets are $100.
100% of the proceeds from the ticket sales will benefit the Montauk Playhouse. Direct link to ticket sales here :: www.ebay.com/surflodge
Sky Ferreira is …

By Heather Buchanan
Bridgehampton Polo is the après beach destination for Saturday afternoons running through August 23rd.  Top players and their amazingly agile ponies take to the field for fierce competition.  While these pros make it look easy, it’s far from a ride through the park.  Sylvester Stallone once said, “Playing polo is like trying to play golf during an earthquake.”

There’s plenty of social action field side as well with viewing options which range from a blanket by the field enjoying  gourmet food …

What’s better than treating yourself at a discount.  I’m a huge fan of Hamptons Wellness Week where you can visit your favorite healers for less or discover new ways to care for yourself and your loved ones.  After all we all need to counteract summer margarita and lobster roll madness!  You can explore Hamptons health and wellness from July 13th to 20th.  You have so many great choices including some of our favorites: Paddle Diva, A Studio Day Spa, Yoga Shanti, and …

In a Hamptons Social Season, Bridgehampton Polo opening day is a bit like Christmas.  And yes, Santa is delivering a pony or a whole team of polo ponies, some of the most accomplished athletes on the planet.  Opening Day of Bridgehampton Polo 2014 starts a whole new stylish stick an ball game July 19 hosted by Town & Country Magazine.  Here is the inside scoop:
Bridgehampton Polo Club (849 Hayground Road)is pleased to announce Opening Day on July 19, 2014, hosted by Town & Country Magazine, with …

I am all about a grilled hot dog but there are plenty of things to put in your Hamptons Fourth of July bun.   Here are some of the best Hamptons Fourth of July weekend activities.  Remember that this is just an introduction and many of these events are ongoing throughout the summer.

Hamptons fundraisers are not only the place to see and be seen but a great testament to the generosity of the community to support local and national organizations.  Here’s a round up of HIpHamptons favorite Hamptons Benefits 2014. Even if you can’t make the date, you can find other ways to contribute or enjoy these cultural institutions.  A few wardrobe musts: wedge heels, creative attire as many of these events are themed, layers you can add or shed in case it’s warm …

FIREWORKS
The best way to celebrate the Hamptons Fourth Of July is to watch the fireworks display.  Luckily the big booms are spaced out so you don’t have to chose just one.  Many of these displays can be watched from the water so if you don’t own a mega yacht maybe grab a few bottles of cold Veuve Clicquot and some lobster salad and hang out on the dock with your thumb out.
Montauk – Friday, July 4th – Umbrella Beach – 9pm
The “Stars …

By Heather Buchanan
Photos by LILA PHOTO
They say that too many chefs in the kitchen is a bad thing but at the Palm Beach Food and Wine Festival that proved quite untrue.  When it’s Daniel Boulud, David Burke, and Todd English all you can say is “I’m in.”  Taste buds were percolating in anticipation and promises of pilates and green juicing quickly went out the window in favor of a foie gras hotdog and baba with rum gelée and vanilla Chantilly.
For snowbirds heading …

If you need a little help with your New Years Resolution to get fit and healthy, Hamptons Wellness week January 12 – 17  is your jump start.

Hamptons Wellness Week consists of $5 fitness classes at over 15 premiere fitness studios between Montauk and Westhampton, evening lectures and learning, coaching and connecting, and, of course, celebrating. Kiley Sabatino of One Healthy Hamptons seeks to celebrate wellness and make health more accessible throughout the community.  This is your chance to try all sorts of …

The East Hampton Historical Society is proud to announce their 2013 House & Garden Tour, showcasing some of the finest examples of historic and modern architecture in the Hamptons.  This year’s tour – comprised of five unique homes – is scheduled for Saturday, November 30, from 1 to 4:30 p.m.
A kick-off Cocktail Party on the evening of Friday, November 29, welcomes in this year’s highly anticipated House Tour. This annual event, now in its 29th year, is traditionally held over Thanksgiving weekend, …

ADORNIA jewelry took high fashion to the high seas in Montauk with their pop-up sail aboard the SS Adornia, a vintage luxury catamaran to preview their latest collection The Palms on models clad in swimsuits by 6 Shore Road.
You know your jewelry is a hot commodity when a man on a neighboring boat jumps overboard to swim with his VISA to your pop up store on a yacht to make a purchase.  The soggy gentleman figured if he could swim while holding …

This Saturday August 17th three of our favorite things come together – Pink, Paddle Boarding, and Posh Parties.  Raising funds for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, the 2nd Annual Hamptons Paddle & Party for Pink features special guests Gabrielle Reece and Laird Hamilton and is Co-Chaired by Maria and Larry Baum and Lisa and Richard Perry.
The day starts with a paddle board race at 8am at Havens Beach in Sag Harbor.  A very special sunset fundraising party will be held at the …

It’s a whole weekend of PINK.  The Ellen Hermanson Foundation which created a legacy to support women with breast cancer and established a center at Southampton Hospital will get you walking, running, dancing and even eating to help the cause.
The Pink Apron event on Saturday August 17th features delectable from celebrity chefs then on Sunday August 18th there is the 5K run/walk Ellen’s Run starting at 9am.  For more information and tickets. www.ellensrun.org.

Summer winds ushered in the 17th annual season opener of Bridgehampton Polo at Two Trees Farms in Bridgehampton, New York on Saturday July 20thwhere Peter Brant’s team White Birch emerged victorious over Victor Vargas’ Lechuza Caracas with a score of 11 to 5.  Peter Brant who is the Co-Founder of the Bridgehampton Polo Club commented, “Once again we have drawn a group of first rate high-goal teams made up of some of the top players from all over the world.  We invite …

The key to enjoying these displays is to arrive at your destination early to get parking and a prime viewing spot.  Bring blankets and beach chairs.  If you know anyone with a boat, now is the time to start buttering them up for a potential seaside seat.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 3rd
North Sea Fire Department – 9 pm at Fireman’s Field
THURSDAY, JULY 4th
Westhampton Beach – 9pm
Can be seen throughout the Village!
Montauk Chamber of Commerce – 9pm – 10pm
Umbrella Beach – Best viewed from any Ocean …

By Heather Buchanan
Okay, so maybe you weren’t the girl slathered in baby oil with the foil face sun reflector but that doesn’t mean you are not at risk for skin cancer.  According to a 2005 study in the Journal of the American Medical Association, the number of women under age 40 diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma has more than doubled in 30 years while cases of squamous cell carcinoma among women under 40 increased almost 700 percent.  And that’s when global warming …

By Heather Buchanan
For a happy Hamptons Thanksgiving we have a few HipHamptons Do’s & Don’ts as well as a list of great activities for the weekend.
Don’t mess with the stuffing –
Let’s face it – It’s not really about the turkey, it’s about what’s inside.  The family wants the old fashioned stuffing served every year.  Don’t go all crazy on it with truffles, dates, and cognac.  Your family will be upset… for a while.
Don’t play with the turkey parts –
Yes it seems super …

by Heather Buchanan
Photos Rob Rich www.societyallure.com
Bridgehampton Polo celebrated the grand finale of its 16th season on Saturday August 25th with a fabulous field-side flourish.  Team CIRCA emerged victorious over White Birch by a score of 11 to 10 in the Vertu Hamptons Cup.
The members of CIRCA and their ponies fought valiantly for the win in a close match which went down to the wire.  The Official Timekeeper of Bridgehampton Piaget had crucial importance.

What’s Your Hamptons Summer Bucket List?  Here’s some not to miss moments.

EVENTS:

Harvest East End – Saturday August 25th 6p to 9p
Here is the food version of speed dating. No need to commit because you have so many delicious options of local food and wine from top chefs and vintners. Benefitting the Group For The East End, Peconic Land Trust, and East End Hospice this epicurean festival is a true delight. Be sure to check out …

By Heather Buchanan
Photos by Rob Rich www.societyallure.com
Safety first is the motto of Bridgehampton Polo so with the rain-slicked fields the match was cancelled to ensure safety of player and his trusted mount.  Both ponies and players enjoyed a day off with some of polo’s top stars stopping by the VIP tent to enjoy the afternoon reception including Mariano Aguerre, one of the few players to reach the perfect 10 goal handicap.

By Heather Buchanan
photos by Rob Rich www.societyallure.com

The third time is the charm for Bridgehampton Polo where the weather gods cooperated to allow match play on August 4th.  Larry Boland, President of Piaget N.A. the Official Timekeeper of Bridgehampton Polo commented, “Rain or shine, Bridgehampton Polo is a great fit for Piaget…though we prefer sunshine! We’re looking forward to welcoming our clients out this weekend to enjoy the festivities and hopefully, another exciting match.”

It was a heroic effort for both teams in …

By Heather Buchanan
Photos by Rob Rich www.societyallure.com

Although rain cancelled the polo match, the exclusive party in the VIP tent at Bridgehampton Polo continued on Saturday July 28th.  Designer Nicole Miller didn’t get the chance for the opening coin toss, but still displayed her signature style.  Many a fashionable Hamptons woman was checking the weather on her iPhone with its special Nicole Miller designed case.

By Heather Buchanan
Photos by Rob Rich/SocietyAllure.com

Bridgehampton Polo 2012 opened its Sweet Sixteenth Season on Saturday July 21st, albeit with an exhibition match due to the slick rain-soaked field. Luckily the sun was shining on the who’s who of the Hamptons sophisticated social scene.  Guests under the VIP tent were happy to luxuriate in the lounge area with a crisp Bertaud Belieu Rosé or Grey Goose Vodka Hamptons Punch infused with fresh grapefruit and strawberries.

Beautiful picnic baskets from Gabby Karan De Felice’s Tutto …

The spotlight is back on Bridgehampton Polo and this year firmly focused on the field. In its 16th Season Bridgehampton Polo 2012 returns to Two Trees Farm for six consecutive Saturdays from July 21st through August 25th.   The game itself is front and center this year with a more luxurious viewing experience.  Former years of “bigger is better” are being replaced with a “quality over quantity” approach.

Last season, the Bridgehampton Polo Club brought in veteran polo publicist and event organizer Shamin Abas …

Wednesday July 4th – Montauk Grucci Fireworks on Umbrella Beach
Any town beach is good viewing.  Go early for parking and bring a picnic – this is hugely popular.  Remember your flashlight or your iPhone flashlight app.
www.montaukchamber.org

Men’s Lives at Bay Street Theatre – July 3 – 29
If there is one classic play about the Hamptons it is Men’s Lives when fishermen and not financiers ruled the Hamptons.  This is the 20 year revival from Sag Harbor’s own Joe Pintauro based on the book …

If you’re not a hedge fund manager in North Haven who has the deep pockets to put on a private fireworks display for your wife’s birthday – don’t feel bad.  Here is how you can enjoy Hamptons Fourth of July fireworks.
With Independence Day falling on hump day this year, Hamptons fireworks are more spread out than usual.  The key is to secure a prime viewing seat early whether it is a waterfront restaurant reservation or a beach chair set up well before …

On the eve of the summer solstice – health and well being are front and center.  If the only thing front and center is your protruding muffin top or emotional baggage here’s a chance to get the scoop on cleansing and juicing as well as Astrology/Psychology readings at WellNEST in Sag Harbor.  Also be sure to check out their yoga/healing classes and visit the store which carries Floracopeia some of the best essential oils around.  Here’s the inside scoop from one our …

You know the moment.  You feel on top of the world and you walk into a party only to see – horrors – someone else in the exact same dress.  For the fabulous female (or male) you want something unique.  The new Michelle Farmer Collaborate which opened on Main Street in Bridgehampton has a collection you won’t find anywhere else with emerging talent from the fashion scene.  This is your best Hamptons boutique destination.

Michelle whose hand designed jewelry adorns many a graceful …

2012 HAMPTONS BENEFITS
It’s a full Hamptons Fundraiser season benefiting many worthy causes. Here are a few ways to make the most of each event:

Take time to learn about the cause and find out how you can further get involved.
Note there are often ticket discounts if you are a member of the organization.
Some events have a cocktail hour or junior ticket which is less expensive.
Buy in advance – there may be a discount and some Hamptons benefits do sell out.
I’m going to …

It wasn’t just Delilah who knew the power of good hair.  Your best Hamptons hairdresser ally is Francesca Mercer Padilla.  The worldly “Frankie” as she is affectionately known has traveled from London to Manhattan to Palm Beach and Bogota and has now fixed on the Hamptons.  She has been trusted with the tresses of Hillary Clinton and high level diplomats at the US and British Embassies in Columbia.  Clearly she can keep a secret which is amazing because there is a theory …