Ja Rule Takes Over Calissa
The Hamptons summer scene officially ignited with a one-night-only takeover by hip-hop legend Ja Rule at Calissa in Water Mill on Friday, June 13th. The occasion? The exclusive Hamptons launch of his new whiskey line, Amber & Opal—and the crowd came ready to toast.
Images courtesy of John Roca
The Hamptons summer scene officially ignited with a one-night-only takeover by hip-hop legend Ja Rule at Calissa in Water Mill on Friday, June 13th. The occasion? The exclusive Hamptons launch of his new whiskey line, Amber & Opal—and the crowd came ready to toast.
Calissa’s already-iconic bar transformed into a stage for Ja Rule himself, who stepped into bartender mode to pour up his favorite custom cocktails using Amber & Opal. Guests enjoyed whiskey-based cocktails, wine, and Mediterranean hors d’oeuvres, all while soaking in the signature Calissa ambiance—sun-drenched Mykonos energy mixed with classic Hamptons polish.
Images courtesy of John Roca
Images courtesy of John Roca
Set on Montauk Highway, Calissa has become known not just for its coastal Greek cuisine and award-winning wine list, but for its effortless ability to bring together food, music, and luxury lifestyle in one inviting setting. On this night, the party flowed inside and out, with live music, flowing drinks, and a crowd that brought the weekend energy early.
The star of the night—besides Ja Rule himself—was the Amber & Opal whiskey collection. With smooth, warm flavor profiles and a striking bottle design, it was easy to see why guests were eager to sample more than one of the specialty cocktails. Ja Rule’s passion behind the brand was clear, and his behind-the-bar charisma sealed the vibe.
Images courtesy of John Roca
Images courtesy of John Roca
Images courtesy of John Roca
The launch also served as a sneak peek of what’s to come at Calissa this season. Starting Memorial Day Weekend, guests can rent Calissa-branded MOKEs—stylish electric beach vehicles—complete with the option for a curated Greek picnic basket. It’s a perfect way to elevate your next beach day in true Calissa fashion.
And the entertainment calendar? Stacked. Guests can look forward to:
Live DJs every weekend (Fridays, Saturdays, and expanded sets on holiday weekends)
Saxophonist-accompanied sets every Saturday
World music Sundays on the Terrace, including standout acts like Cristo and Rafael performing Gipsy Kings tributes on June 29 and July 27, and The Mylos Greek Party Band on July 6 and August 24.
Special July 4th performance from Chase Creighton and Adam Lipson
Full entertainment listings can be found at calissahamptons.com/entertainment.
Whether You Missed It or Want More
If you weren’t able to make it to the June 13th event, Calissa is open all season long—and you can still enjoy Amber & Opal cocktails, weekend parties, and the magic of the Hamptons done right. Dinner reservations are highly recommended and can be made at Calissa’s OpenTable.
Stay tuned for more from @calissahamptons and @amberandopalspirits—this was only the beginning.
15th Annual Get Wild Benefit
There was much to celebrate at the 15th Annual GET WILD Benefit as the Evelyn Alexander Wildlife Rescue Center of the Hamptons continues to heal and safely release animals back into the wild across Eastern Long Island.
Noelle Dunlop, Sara Shala, Luisa Diaz (photo credit: R Cole for Rob Rich / Society Allure)
There was much to celebrate at the 15th Annual GET WILD Benefit as the Evelyn Alexander Wildlife Rescue Center of the Hamptons continues to heal and safely release animals back into the wild across Eastern Long Island. At this year's charity event, James Hunter and Fred W. Thiele, Jr. received recognition. Ingrid Edelman, Jane Gill, Missy Hargraves, and Jonathan McCann served as the event chairmen for this year's charity event, which was held in the Sagaponack sculpture field. Joseph Shaw from the Express News Group served as the event's emcee.
Jean Shafiroff, Consuelo Vanderbilt (photo credit: R Cole for Rob Rich / Society Allure)
Elton Ilirjani with musical guest Trey Taylor (photo credit: R Cole for Rob Rich / Society Allure)
Photo Credit: R Cole for Rob Rich / Society Allure
Live music, drinks, appetizers, and a silent auction were provided for the guests. The cocktail reception opened with a greeting to all visitors and featured visits by some of the non-releasable hawks and owls that the Evelyn Alexander Wildlife Rescue Center has rehabilitated and now resides at the Center. The local fauna that was treated there profited from all earnings.
Notable attendees included: Fred W. Thiele, jr., Jane Gill, Noelle Dunlop, Chris Strub, Missy Hargraves, Bruce Weber, Nan Bush, Jack Bishop, Maryann Marston, Brigid Fitzgerald, Jean Shafiroff, Ingrid Edelman, Sara Shala, Elton Ilirjani, Consuelo Vanderbilt, Pamela Morgan, Roger Sichel, Luisa Diaz, Julie Ratner, Soren White, MD.
The Southampton Inn Celebrates its 25th Anniversary
The award-winning Southampton Inn hosted hotel guests, local residents, and seasonal tourists to a celebration in the center of Southampton New York, starting off the Hamptons summer season with the 2023 Annual Barbeque.
The award-winning Southampton Inn hosted hotel guests, local residents, and seasonal tourists to a celebration in the center of Southampton New York, starting off the Hamptons summer season with the 2023 Annual Barbeque.
Guests enjoyed a buffet of signature burgers, platters of traditional salads, and tasty holiday classics prepared by Claude's Restaurant, including a celebratory 25th Anniversary Cake, on the pool patio, surrounded by several acres of manicured lawns and private gardens. With a large range of cold refreshments to enjoy under the sun, the pool patio bar kept all attendees hydrated.
Notable attendees included: Shane Moan, Dede Gotthelf, Terri Moan, Philip Gotthelf, Jean Shafiroff, Diana Cochran, Jennifer Allsop, Roger Sichel, Eileen Sichel, Cagri Kanver, Larry Wohl, Leesa Rowland, Sara Shala, Consuelo Vanderbilt-Costin, Montgomery Frazier, Maria and Oleg Van Vlodrop, Susan Bates, Carmen D'Alessio, Elana Gibbs, Eric Andrew, Carl Bolch, Peter Pizzino and Noreen Donovan.
This summer, stay at the Inn in one of 90 remodeled and tastefully decorated accommodations, 16 of which are particularly created for dogs to enjoy with their owners. Each room is outfitted with high-quality bedding, including triple sheeting over Tempur-Pedic mattresses, and Gilchrist & Soames, a recognized upmarket toiletries brand. Guestrooms also provide complimentary Wi-Fi internet access, a flat-screen TV, tiny fridge, and climate control. A library with a fireplace, flexible indoor meeting spaces such as a conference room, a ballroom, and a fun area for children of all ages, and the recently refurbished bistro Claude's Restaurant, which serves a wonderful, locally-sourced all-day menu, are all available.
Jean Shafiroff
Jim Marver, Dede Gotthelf, Shirin Kaufman
Make the most of your summer vacation by taking advantage of on-site services and experiences. Every inch of the Southampton Inn's numerous acres of grass space caters to the demands of guests. The Inn's magnificent grounds include many acres of groomed lawns and gardens. The property features a 50-foot heated outdoor pool, an all-weather tennis and pickle ball court, and shuffleboard.
The Southampton Inn's pleasant and professional staff can assist busy guests with a variety of intriguing local excursions such as meal reservations, tours of art galleries, studios, and the Southampton Historical Museum. During the summer of 2023 until Labor Day, Southampton Inn guests may take advantage of the complimentary beach shuttle service to Coopers Beach. In addition, the Inn collaborates with local groups to provide tickets to charity events and galas. Visitors may sample the best wines from surrounding vineyards, and Agawam Park, Avram Hall, and the Cultural Center hold weekly performances. Golf golf times, surfing, kiteboarding, and tennis lessons, as well as fishing and boating adventures and hiking tours at nature preserves, are just a few of the experiences available to Southampton Inn guests.
Sara Shala
Consuelo Vanderbilt-Costin
For the most up-to-date summer packages, specials, and pricing, please contact 631-283-6500 or visit www.southamptoninn.com. The attentive team of the Southampton Inn looks forward to greeting you!
Photo Credit: Lisa Tamburini
SWCRF Annual Hamptons Happening
With the world returning to some sort of regularity, more than 300 guests gathered in Hamptons for a one of a kind event. The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation’s (SWCRF) was proud to hold the return of the one of the biggest charity events of the summer, The Hamptons Happening! The 17th annual event was a celebration of health and wellness, and the culmination of The Global Walk to Flatten the Cancer Curve with SWCRF partner, Walk with a Doc. Event committee member Maria Fishel and Kenneth Fishel hosted the ticketed fundraiser on their estate in Bridgehampton. The event raised more than $400,000 towards cancer research.
This year’s honorees included HUGO BOSS, Fashion Inc represented by Rodolfo Esparza III; Dr. Kenneth Mark, Skin Cancer & Cosmetic Dermatology Expert; Natalie Cohen Gould, Co-founder of Come Back Cycle, Dir. of Wholesale, FP Movement; and Chef and Restaurateur David Burke, David Burke Hospitality Management. The event was co-chaired by Mark D. Friedman of Brown Harris Stevens, Jessica Mackin of James Lane Post, and Randi Schatz. SWCRF founder Samuel Waxman MD, along with event committee members Christine Arlotta, Antonella Bertello, Erica Fineberg, Maria Fishel, Jacqueline Frank, Norah Lawlor, Jamie Koff, Christine Prydatko, Suzanne Sabet, and Michael Snell were in attendance.
Jonny Nierenberg, Tori Chanenchuk, Ali Nierenberg, Elin Nierenberg, Michael Nierenberg
Dr. Samuel Waxman, Marion Waxman, Maria Fishel, Kenneth Fishel, Bradley Fishel
Notable attendees included: Dr. Samuel Waxman, Marion Waxman, Maria Fishel, Kenneth Fishel, Bradley Fishel, Rodolfo Esparza III, Dr. Kenneth Mark, Chef David Burke, Natalie Cohen Gould, Jamie Koff, Mark D. Friedman, Chris Wragge, Harry Carson, Ramona Singer, Jean Shafiroff, Randi Schatz, Ann Liguori, William T. Sullivan, Cesar Ricci, Michael Nierenberg, Elin Nierenberg, Jonny Nierenberg, Tori Chanenchuk, Ali Nierenberg, Jody Gorin, Allie Gorin, Matthew Gorin, Erica Fineberg, Steven Carter, Mario Pecoraro, Chris Arlotta, Philip Greenwald, Dr. Nicholas Perricone, Michael Tadross, Matthew Yee, Vincent Wolf, Suzanne Sabet, Hormoz Sabet, Debbie Shlafmitz, Howard Shlafmitz, Sarah Shlafmitz, Craig Rivera, Cordelia Rivera.
The Hamptons Happening was a cocktail chef-tasting event featuring a dozen chefs and spirits from The Hamptons and NYC area providing samples of their favorite dishes, cocktails and mocktails. The event featured appearances by VIPS like Chris Wragge, anchor of CBS 2 Morning News, Hall of Fame linebacker Harry Carson of The NY Giants, Ramona Singer of RHONY, and a performance by Freestyle Love Supreme, a Tony Award Winning Broadway Musical Improv Group.
After the opening performance by Freestyle Love Supreme, Emcee Chris Wragge welcomed guests to the Hamptons Happening. After a brief interview with founder Dr. Samuel Waxman, the honorees were awarded by William T. Sullivan, Executive Director of the SWCRF. Following another brief performance, the auction got underway. With tickets purchased and auction item bids, the event raised more than $400,000.
The delicious tastings stations were supplied by: A la Mode, Arlotta Food Studio, Bareburger, Beauty & the Broth, Bimble, Centro Trattoria, Chef Julian Medina, Chef Scott Kampf of Southampton Social Club and Union Sushi & Steak; Clarkson Avenue Crumb Cake Company, David Burke Hospitality Management, Golden Pear, Halo Sport, Herradura Tequila, Kurly Kurtosh, Magnolia Bakery, MarieBelle New York, Milene Jardine, Out East Rose, Pompette, Rust & Gold, Simple Vodka, T-Bar Steak & Lounge, Taub Family Companies, Woodford Reserve.
Sponsors included: Backal Hospitality Group, Guaranteed Rate, HUGO BOSS Fashions Inc., James Lane Post, Mann Publications, Modern Luxury, Newrez, Prime Meridian Moving. And dozens of in-donations provided by Amali, Ani Private Resorts, Arlotta by Chris Arlotta, Arlotta Food Studio, The Baker House 1650, Bisous Web, Calissa, Covergirl, Chase William, Evolve East, Free People Movement, FR TEAM of Brown Harris Stevens, The Hidden Gem Café, HiWave, ISDIN, Kobi Halperin, Lawlor Media Group, Peter Thomas Roth, Regina Kravitz, Swoon.
The Global Walk to Flatten the Cancer Curve officially started on June 30th, 2021 and culminated at the SWCRF’s 17th Annual Hamptons Happening. The virtual walk raised international awareness and funds for life-saving cancer research. Participants logged their steps during the 11 days with the aim of accumulating 25,000 miles, enough to travel around the world. The virtual fundraising walk collected $100,000 for cancer research.
The incidence of cancer is rising around the world and advanced age is the most significant risk factor. More than 60 percent of Americans diagnosed with cancer are 65 and older. SWCRF, in collaboration with the National Cancer Institute and National Institute on Aging, is leading the way in funding the scientists who are working towards the next breakthrough in cancer treatments. Currently, SWCRF is funding 50 renown investigators on three continents, each working together to develop less toxic cancer treatments.
For more information, visit: www.waxmancancer.org/events/hamptons/
Photos: Patrick McMullan and Rob Rich Society Allure
BELLA New York Hosts Hamptons White Party
Southampton Social Club hosted the 7th Annual BELLA Hamptons Cover Launch White Party on Saturday, August 3, 2019. This year’s extravaganza was hosted by E!’s Tyler Henry and Sports Illustrated cover model, Camille Kostek.
Bella’s Editor-in-Chief, Courtenay Hall put together another fabulous party this year.
Upon walking into the exciting Southampton Social Club, Hometown Flower Company greeted guests with The Hampton’s first ever flower truck providing floral scenery.
While cover stars Tyler Henry (Hollywood Medium) and Camille Kostek (Sports Illustrated Model) socialized by their cabanas, guests sipped on Prosecco DOC, Tito’s Handmade Vodka and 1907water. Other guests attended the Brussels Airlines photo booth (Seen in the photos below).
Sponsors including Dune Jewelry, High on Love, BTL Aesthetics, Erimish and Dr. Blaine presented their products for guests to enjoy. While Kendra Scott and Dermalogica had merchandise for partygoers to shop. Additional sponsors included Optyx/Nicole Miller, Roric Tobin Design’s, and Kravit Jewelers/Beauty Bar.
Guests included Courtenay Hall (BELLA Editor-in-Chief), Dan Hall (BELLA Chief Brand Strategist), Tyler Henry (Cover Star & Hollywood Medium), Camille Kostek (Cover Star & Sports Illustrated Model), Christy McGinity (Reality TV, Little Women LA), Renee Santos (NBC News Reporter), Alyssa Riley (Sports Illustrated Model), Carrie Berk (Author), Joe Pardavllia (Radio Personality), Haley Carling (Influencer), Logan’s Run (DJ), Dr. Tabasum Mir (Bravo TV Personality), Andy Peeke (Actor), and Ann Ligouri (Sports Radio).
All Photo Credit: Steve White
Jill Zarin’s 6th Annual Luxury Luncheon
On July 28th, Architechnology Designs presented Jill Zarin’s 6th Annual Luxury Luncheon at Topping Rose House in East Hampton. The event raised funds for Thyroid Oncology Group in honor of Jill’s late husband, Bobby Zarin, who lost his battle against thyroid cancer earlier this year.
The soiree invited guests into an intimate luxury experience filled with high-end beauty products, melt-in-your-mouth delicacies like kobe beef, and plenty of rosé, all enjoyed to the tune of DJ Samantha Michelle’s music.
When asked about the significance of continuing her annual luncheon, Jill answered, "He was just always supportive of everything I did. Bobby always said one more and that’s it. So, in honor of him, one more.”
Jill was supported by a crowd of celebrity friends, including Real Housewives Leanne Locken from Dallas, Vicki Gunvalson from Orange County, Juliet Angus from Ladies of London, Kathy Wakile from New Jersey, and Cindy Barshop from New York. Also in attendance were Heather McDonald, Dina Lohan, and Jill’s best friend and Millionaire Matchmaker Patti Stanger, who flew out from California for the special event.
Guests were free to mingle and enjoy a feast of different experiences, including endless product samples, a designer trunk show, custom hairstyling, and even IV detox therapy by BeWell.
By the end of the day, guests walked away with swag bags valued at thousands of dollars. Those with “golden tickets” were treated to personalized gifts from vendors including jewelry line Kendra Scott, millennial makeup brand Winky Lux, and Lolea Sangria from Barcelona.
Proceeds from the event go toward research to find a cure for thyroid cancer. “Bobby’s team of doctors from MD Anderson, Memorial Sloane Kettering and Mayo Clinic were active members of ITOG’s community and were directly responsible for the treatment Bobby received including the last one that gave Bobby the extra 6 months we had together,” said Zarin. The event was a touching way to give back while commemorating the cause with friends, family, and socialites alike.
About International Thyroid Oncology Group
The mission of the International Thyroid Oncology Group is to create a cure for the most challenging thyroid cancers through the collaborative efforts of unique multidisciplinary team of leading physicians, scientists, and advocates to design, coordinate, and prioritize state-of-the-art clinical trials and correlative science.
Photos Credit: Jonny Nunez
JBF Chefs and Champagne
The James Beard Foundation welcomed Padma Lakshmi as this year’s guest of honor at the annual Chefs and Champagne soiree on Saturday, July 28th at Wölffer Estate Vineyard in the Hamptons.
Chefs and Champagne is the premier culinary celebration of the summer, with New York influencers, culinary connoisseurs, and farm-to-table foodies venturing out East to enjoy unique tastings from over 35 chefs, beverage masters, and artisanal purveyors -- twenty of whom were female. Among the culinary highlights of the night were foie gras macarons, savory smoked egg, and bars flowing with Champagne Boizel and Wölffer Estate wines.
“I am excited to be joining the ranks of previous guests of honor such as Julia Child and Martha Stewart to support the foundation’s mission to make America’s food culture more delicious, diverse, and sustainable for everyone,” said Padma. “Bringing attention to JBF scholarship, women’s leadership, and other impact programs aligns with many of the causes that are close to my heart.”
Padma is an internationally known best-selling author and the host and executive producer of Bravo’s Emmy award-winning Top Chef. Her passion for food, family, and feminism makes her an ideal role model for the future generation of female chefs.
The annual event has been running for over 27 years in support of the work that the James Beard Foundation does to provide culinary education and implement a better food system. Past guests of honor include Marcus Samuelsson, Ted Allen, Daniel Boulud, Bobby Flay, Carla Hall, Thomas Keller, Emeril Lagasse, and Wolfgang Puck.
The Foundation partnered with Rethink Food NYC to make the affair even more sustainable and transform excess food into ready-to-eat meals for the city’s food insecure populations.
“This year’s summer fundraiser had the greatest impact yet,” noted James Beard Foundation CEO Clare Reichenbach. “The annual event exemplifies our continued commitment to create exceptional experiences all in support of the Foundation’s mission to change the world through food.”
The Foundation is in an energetic pursuit of skyrocketing an evolution in the culinary industry. Issues such as gender imbalance and diversity in culinary leadership are being tackled by JBF and its mission to nurture America’s future food leaders. Thanks to the silent auction, over $100,000 was raised to support JBF’s impact programs including Boot Camp for Policy and Change, Women in Entrepreneurial Leadership, and Smart Catch.
JBF Chefs and Champagne soiree
The James Beard Foundation welcomed Padma Lakshmi as this year’s guest of honor at the annual Chefs and Champagne soiree on Saturday, July 28th at Wölffer Estate Vineyard in the Hamptons.
Chefs and Champagne is the premier culinary celebration of the summer, with New York influencers, culinary connoisseurs, and farm-to-table foodies venturing out East to enjoy unique tastings from dozens of chefs, beverage masters, and artisanal purveyors, 20 of whom were female.