With one week until Memorial Day weekend, the unofficial start of Summer for many, several local favorite restaurants are opening their doors this weekend, so we can enjoy these places before it gets to crazy on the Island.  Here are four favs opening their doors this weekend.

Kennebec Ave in Oak Bluffs, A Mini Restaurant Row

Get ready all you pan pasta enthusiast, Jimmy Seas is opening this weekend – either Friday or Saturday, depending on how things go.  You know what that means!  Yummy roasted garlic to smear all over a loaf of bread and delicious huge hot pans filled with pasta!  I guess since I am no longer pregnant, I can’t justify eating an entire pan of butternut squash raviolis any more.  Oh well, I am still looking forward to indulging in some Jimmy Seas, but just remember to get there early, because it fills up fast, even now.

A local favorite is opening its doors tonight, Sidecar Cafe and Bar.  Nestled between a private residence and The Madison Inn, this little hot spot has continued to grow in popularity among Islanders and visitors.  Behind a little well placed greenery, you’ll find a small, well-appointed patio, perfect for dining or enjoying a cocktail, and of course people watching.  Inside is cozy and inviting, and you’ll usually find one of the owners, Scott Mullin or Sam Cleland there, making sure everyone is having fun.

The menu is creative and full of culinary delights and local ingedients.  I personally am a sucker for the lobster or lobstah, as some say, mac & cheese.  The sweet potato fries are the best on MV!  Also, Sidecar is known for its fantastic cocktails — especially their martinis – and be sure to have a Sidecar while there.  A little insider tip – it’s a great late-night spot.

Proud To Be the Black Sheep in Edgartown

 Opening tomorrow and enjoying the beginning of its second year on Summer Street in Edgartown, Black Sheep is a welcomed addition to the Island.  You’ll find the most amazing selection of cheeses, think Chevre, Winnemere and amazing aged cheddar, along with olives (good stuffed ones for martinis), and a selection on gourmet crackers.  Stop by here on the way to a party to pick up a couple of things, and you’ll be certain to impress your host and hostess.  Thinking of something sweet?  Try the delectable petit fours – luckily they’re small so you won’t feel too guilty eating a number of them.

At night, Black Sheep becomes Trio.  Move around a display or two and presto, you have a chic wine bar. Opening next week, this little gem becomes the ideal place to relax with a glass of wine paired with the perfectly selected cheese. What a treat before dinner!  Or, stop in after dinner for desert.  Either way, Trio is not to be missed.

Dinner In Vineyard Haven With A View

We can’t leave Vineyard Haven out of the mix.  Opening tonight is Saltwater Restaurant in the Tisbury Market Place in Vineyard Haven.  With spectacular lagoon views and a gorgeoues dining room, with memorable blue up-lighting, this restaurant has some of the most delicious fish dishes on the Island, prepared by Chef Joe DaSilva.

Last year, I was obsessed with the  Grilled Yellowfin Tuna with bamboo rice and b0k-choy.  I also was a big fan of their crab cakes which I am very picky about.  I can’t wait to see what Chef DaSilva has up his sleeve this year.

Now that you can get beer and wine here, you can just pop in for dinner.  No more needing to plan it like an event – making sure you have the right wine, etc.  It’s so nice to just walk right in and sit at the bar and grab a drink and a couple of oysters before having dinner there.

Also, don’t forget that as of May 9, you can grab breakfast and lunch at Saltwater, prepared by the fabulous Josh Aronie.  I haven’t been able to get there yet but need to soon. Josh’s food at the Menemsha Cafe was delicious.

With more old favorites and brand new restaurants opening their doors this week and next week, it’s time to get together with friends and enjoy the culinary delights of Martha’s Vineyard before you need a reservation.  We all have our favorites and this Summer is going to be tough on the waistline.

Let me know where you love to dine and can’t wait to visit, and while you’re checking out the On Point blog, please feel free to Like Us on FB as well. You can also follow us on Twitter and Pinterest.

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Last week I was able to share with you a brief history about Island jewelry designer, Stefanie Wolf.  Now I am excited to talk more about her fabulous jewelry, all of which is made on Martha’s Vineyard.  If you don’t have any Stefanie Wolf pieces, this is the season to stop on by her studio in Oak Bluffs, and get a piece or two!

The new 2012 collections I got to see are not even featured on the Stefanie Wolf Designs website as of yet but will be soon.  She just did a photo shoot with all the new pieces.  Talk about a sneak peak whoohoo!

True Pieces of Art

Let’s begin with the jewelry that has become her signature, the Trilogy Collection.  Stefanie discovered these beads that the collection is made with while she was in San Francisco.  She had an immediate reaction from her customers – people loved them. Anything she made with them was a hot item.

Stefanie has several different pieces in The Trilogy Collection including multi-strand bracelets and necklaces and earrings.  Pieces can be worn alone or worn in multiples.  I am particularly fond of the 38″ wrap necklace which I have in green.  I love that it can be worn it long or short or even as a bracelet.  A girl needs options after all.

Theses unique beads are called Picasso Windows because of their painted edges and windowpane shape.  The beads are handmade in the renowned Jablonec region of the Czech Republic where glass making is a centuries old tradition.  Their colorful geometry has been an inspiration for this vibrant collection which is about to see some seriously fun new additions.  I should mention that there are 25 colors to choose from – you’re certain to have trouble figuring out which one is your favorite.

Fresh Designs for 2012

For 2012, Stefanie is introducing a lot of new fresh, feisty colors with the Picasso Window beads. We’re going to see fuschia, bright blue, and bright yellow and more, in addition to the colors she has carried.  The new colors are really eye-catching and are great pops of color to add to one’s wardrobe.

Since so many people still feel most comfortable in black and other neutrals, these pieces are a perfect way to get on trend and add a little pizazz to those safe colors.  A little color does the body good, I think you walk with a little swagger when you’ve got some fun jewelry on.

Aside from the new color additions to her collection, Stefanie is introducing a completely new bracelet, the leather Ladder Bracelet.  Though using Picasso Window beads still, these are slightly different  from the others.  A year in the making, with the design of these custom (for Stefanie) beads, the Ladder Bracelet brings a whole new element of cool to her collection.  I really like the wrap Ladder Bracelet.  It is a statement piece which looks and even feels good on your wrist.

In line with the bright color trend, these bracelets will have fun, colorful contrasting leather as options.  We’re talking about bright turquoise beads with orange leather, and  yellow beads with fuschia leather, as just a couple of examples of the combinations.  Traditional colored beads are also available as well, but let’s try to be a little adventureous this Summer.  There will also be a Ladder Bracelet that will be only available at CB Stark.  I can’t say much, but I can give a hint – Vineyard lovers will be very excited about it!

Also new for this season is the Gold Leaf collection – available in silver too and in three different styles: the chevron (featured), a lariat (which is open and can be worn several different ways), and a three strand. The chevron Gold Leaf is a new favorite for me, a must-have in silver.  I have seen Stefanie wearing the Gold Leaf chevron with just a t-shirt, and it is kind of fierce.  I feel like you could also dress it up or rather use it to dress you up.  You have to see it in person to really appreciate the detail of the leaves.

There is also the Jane Jetson Collection new for the Summer.  It is fresh and funky.  With the colors and the beads used, it actually does make you think of the Jeston ladies.  Stefanie loves this collection, and when she speaks about it, she smiles just a bit more.  It really is fun and a little more bold than her other collections.

 There’s Even More to Delight You

Stefanie Wolf Designs also features beautiful jewelry with various types of stone such as ocean quartz, black onyx, agate, freshwater pearls and much, much more.  There are also pieces with coral that are fun and a little edgy.  You can even get a pair of bone feather earrings with carnelian or turquiose stones!  You’ll have to stop by her studio in the Arts District, County Avenue, Oak Bluffs or visit her website to see all that she has to offer.  Oh yes – price –  not to worry there’s something for any budget.  Stefanie’s pieces range from $30 – $200.

Also, be sure to check out the Summer 2012 Pendleton catalog.  The Vineyard’s own Stefanie Wolf Designs is featured again.  Her jewelry is even on the cover this season.  Also, if you love something, but might want it in silver or gold or perhaps a little longer or shorter, just ask.  Since every piece is handmade, it might be possible to have a piece made for you.

It still amazes me that right down the street from where I live in Oak Bluffs, there is such a fabulous gem of a jeweler!  I am proud to wear Stefanie’s jewelry.  Be on the lookout for the Gold Leaf chevron necklace in silver on me this Summer.  I think I have to have it!  After All, I have to do my part to support local artists!

While you’re checking out the On Point Stefanie Wolf Designs Facebook Photo Album, please feel free to Like Us on FB as well. You can also follow us on Twitter and Pinterest.

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Okay all you shoppers!  PIKNIK is open in Edgartown.  If you’re out and about, head to Winter Street and stop in.  PIKNIK is open Thursday – Sunday.  Also, remember that this Sunday is Mother’s Day.  She should have something new and fabulous for her special day, and I bet you can find something at PIKNIK.  For more on the new PIKNIK in Edgartown and owner Micheal Hunter, check out my previous post.

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I first saw Stefanie Wolf’s jewelry at an Art Stroll during the Summer, in the Arts District in Oak Bluffs three years ago. Immediately, I fell in love with the glass bead jewelry she made.  I got my first piece at that event and now have several.  Over the years, I have gotten to know Stefanie, but just recently, I realized that I didn’t know much about her story – how she began making jewelry or even how she got to the Island.  Time to investigate!

So I went to her studio last week to chat.  Besides being wowed by her Summer collection, I thought her story of how she got to where she is today was pretty interesting.  I sensed my first two-part blog coming, the first, a little history about Stefanie, and the second, all about her amazing jewelry.

Summers on the Vineyard Can Change Lives

It seems as though every great artist has a great story, and Stefanie Wolf has quite the story indeed.  Stefanie spent a couple Summers in the late 90′s here on the Vineyard during her Wellesley college years.  She waitressed at the Edgartown Yacht Club, and had the kinda of fun, magical Summers that only the Island can provide.

During her time here, she began making jewelry as a hobby.  Her very first bead purchase was at Beadniks in Vineyard Haven, and the wire and pliers from Phillips Hardware in Oak Bluffs.  She made beaded jewelry for herself and friends, and even managed to get Saffron in Edgartown and the Last Mango (which was in Oak Bluffs, but is no longer) to sell her pieces, which always sold out.  She continued to tinker with beads and make her jewelry during her time here.

Time For Change

Stefanie took a break from jewelry making after college and joined corporate America.  For three years, she worked night and day and got burnt-out.  So, like any smart person, she moved to Maui, Hawaii.  What started as a vacation tied into a friend’s wedding, became so much more.

When she was there, she ran into a friend that she knew from her Summers on the Vineyard, Chuck Fisher.  He was there on vacation as well.  He worked for the Oak Bluffs Harbormaster, and was enjoying some off-season fun.  Stefanie convinced him to stay.  There, he got his Captain’s License, and they both worked on a boat together, Chuck as a Captain, and Stefanie as crew.

Imagine – her work attire was now a bikini.  A far cry from the stuffy suits and heels from her previous place of employment.  I also have to tell you that she fell in love while in paradise.  She was working with her soul-mate, but she fought the fact that she had feelings for Chuck for a full year!  Finally, she admitted to being in love, and they got married.  Funny how the Vineyard keeps having an impact on her life, and would continue to, since Chuck and his family are from the Vineyard.

Feeling relaxed and inspired, she began to tinker with jewelry again, which was well received in Maui.  However, this was short lived.  Stefanie had decided that it was time for something more.  Her next adventure would take her to San Francisco, where she would go for her Master’s Degree in Psychology at the California Institute of Intergral Studies (CIIS).  A school renowned for its holistic approach to education – mind, body, and spirit.

So, it was off to San Francisco.  While in school, part of the experience meant going to therapy as a student.  Stefanie was learning so much about herself and what brought her joy.  Her hobby of making jewelry brought her happiness.  So she began to make jewelry again.  Though she tried to fight it, she realized her heart was in her craft.

She enjoyed school and liked the thought of helping people, but she was getting more and more involved with her jewelry.  She was selling her work at the Ferry Building Farmer’s Market, trunk shows at the yoga studio where she practiced, and at craft shows at her school.  She was selling out at each event, going home and making more jewelry that same night to sell for the next day’s event.  She was becoming very successful with her “hobby.”  It was even paying for her education.

Half way through the required 3,000 clinical hours for her Master’s, Stefanie took a year off from psychology to focus on her craft.  Here was a woman with an undergrad degree from Wellesley and her Master’s from CIIS, making jewelry, and she never looked back.  She was happy, and her schooling has proved to be helpful with her business, Stefanie Wolf Designs, now in its 10th year.

In San Francisco, Stefanie Wolf Designs had a serious following.  It was during this time she began working with Picasso Window Beads in her Trilogy Collection, which became her signature pieces.  I’ll go into more about these beads in the post to follow.  Things were going extremely well.  Her business was thriving, she was married, and expecting a baby.  Time to move the Martha’s Vineyard.

Back to Martha’s Vineyard

In the Spring of 2009, Stefanie and Chuck moved to Martha’s Vineyard.  For Stefanie, it felt like coming home.  She had always felt that way about the Island.  There are so many people that have that feeling about this place, and of course it was coming home for Chuck.  Their baby girl, Sofia was born here, and it is here, Stefanie and Chuck are raising their family.

Stefanie was nervous about moving her business to a small, seasonal location, but she knew it would work out.  For a while, she , Chuck, and Sofia did the Island Shuffle.  Knowing she couldn’t move all her jewelry making supplies around, she had to rent a space where she could make her jewelry.

She looked at a number of places and found one that she felt had a good vibe in the Arts District in Oak Bluffs.  Though she got the space as a place to do her work, people kept coming there to buy her jewelry.  It eventually became a retail space as well.  Stefanie Wolf Designs is still there today, and you can still find Stefanie there making her jewelry.

Soon after she moved to the Island, CB Stark started to carry her jewelry.  The Trilogy Collection was and is a popular collection at their stores.  What a feather in Stefanie’s cap – CB Stark is the premier jewelry store (s) on the Island, and they were carrying her pieces.  She was also selling at the Artisans Festivals and still had her collections in stores off island.

Things were going well for her, and she was quickly becoming a fixture in the Vineyard artists community.  The move to the Vineyard was the right decision for her business and her family.  All concerns about being here in a small, seasonal community were gone.  There was a demand for her jewelry.  She was even able to keep her studio/store open year-round and has two part-time,  year-round employees.

In Fall 2010, Pendleton approached Stefanie about carrying Stefanie Wolf Designs in their Spring 2011 catalog.  As you can imagine, this is a big deal, especially for a small Island business.  Though excited at the prospect of being featured in an international catalog, Stefanie realized that she was going to have to make a heck of a lot more jewelry.  So, she began a little cottage industry here.

She employs a number of crafty moms and their daughters who have a little spare time to make the pieces for the Pendlelton Catalog.  With hundreds of pieces of her jewelry being sold through Pendleton, she has a lot of work for the women, which they can do at their home on their own time.  Quite the clever way to keep the work on Island and keep that cache that comes with things that are made here.  Pendleton is continuing to feature Stefanie Wolf Designs, so be sure to check out the Spring and Summer 2012 catalog.

There you have the short story behind Stefanie Wolf Designs.  I love how her jewelry making started on Martha’s Vineyard and after many years, continued here and brought her even more success.  Also, what a great story.  I learned that Stefanie is a woman who has found her passion and continues to challenge herself with her designs and in her personal life.

She is full of surprises.  She even surfed Costa Rica this past Winter.  How cool?  She went to surf camp, and conquered some personal fears while paddling to the outside (you surfers know what I’m talking about).  Even with a family and thriving business, she continues to challenge herself as an individual.  An inspiration for us all.

Stay tuned for the new Stefanie Wolf Designs Summer Collection.

After closing for renovations, The Art Cliff Diner in Vineyard Haven is open again.  Don’t worry all you Art Cliff enthusiasts!   It is still The Art Cliff we know and love, but there have been a number of changes made.  The diner is almost 70 years old, and with that big anniversary coming up, owner Gina Stanely thought that it was the perfect time to take care of some much needed work and some fun things too.

Diner History Art Cliff Style

First, a very brief history before we dive into the changes for those who may not be familiar with The Art Cliff.  I didn’t know anything about its past and enjoyed getting a brief history.
The original diner was located in Edgartown, where the yacht club is, and was called Captain Brown’s. In 1943, Art and Cliff purchased it, and thus began the legacy of The Art Cliff Diner.  Also, the diner moved to its current location that same year.

In 2000, Gina Stanley became the third owner of the iconic Art Cliff Diner.  Since I moved to Martha’s Vineyard in 2003, Gina’s Art Cliff is the only one I’ve known and fallen in love with.

The Art Cliff has been closed for renovations for most of the Spring.  For those of us who are here during that time, it was a little rough.  Breakfast is kind of a big deal for many of us off-season and Artcliff is one of the best places on the Vineyard – and dare I say the Northeast — to enjoy that first meal of the day.  Of course, I have to say that lunch is outstanding too.

Everytime I drove by the diner, I was hoping to see when it would open again.  When I saw the “Open May 4th” sign, I was ecstatic to know I’d be having some pancakes and homemade chicken sausage again soon.  Then I thought how great it was going to be to see all the things they did to the diner over the last couple of months, and luckily I was going to get a sneak peak.

The New Art Cliff Diner Unveiled

I was a bit nervous when I was about to meet Gina at the diner yesterday.  I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, and I wasn’t quite ready for a lot of change.  When I walked in, I immediately noticed that there were some really fun changes, and the Artcliff was ready to welcome its 70th year with even more style. Also, it still looked like The Art Cliff we know and love — which I was relieved about.  There is something so homey and welcoming about the space, and it still has that feeling but with a fresh coat of paint and a couple of fun upgrades.

The first thing I noticed was the wallpaper that is now on the back wall.  It’s even more of a statement wall than it was before.  The wall paper, which John Murphy from Tracker helped Gina pick out, is handmade recycled newspaper, which of course translates well for a diner.  Think of the people that you’ll find lined up at the counter with their newspapers.

The wallpaper then inspired Gina to purchase a painting of a newsstand while in  NYC, and it’s just the right thing for the space.  When you’re at the counter, you’ll notice the stools have a bit more cushion to them.  The old counter  stools have been repainted, and the cushions have been redone. Gina said that there were twelve layers of seating on them, including the original seat material.  Now they’re covered in a sleek black vinyl which looks fantastic with their new paint job, and they really are comfortable too.

Ok, another thing you’ll notice is the new carpet.  Though subtle, it adds to the fresh feeling of the space.  On a structural note, the entire floor is now level.  Not the most fun renovation but a necessary one.

Back to the fun stuff. There is a new Formica countertop with circles, which is a fun mix of a modern and retro design.  You’ll also find there are a couple of tables with coordinating formica tops.  Some of the tables have been refinished, and look like new “old” pieces, and the tables with the Formica tops have bases are from the original diner, and they too have been refinished as well.

There is new paint on the walls, and even the bathroom has been repainted.  It’s now a deep blue with a fun, funky little mirror.  No more stickers – yet.  You’ll also notice new menu boards for the specials.  Gone are the two pieces of paper, replaced by fun, clear menu boards which are soon to be filled with tempting daily culinary delights.  What you won’t see is that the kitchen has also gotten an upgrade – all new appliances.  They are shiny and new – just waiting for egg yolk and pancake batter.

On the the walls, you’ll notice there are fewer pieces of art and that those classic diner signs above the counter have been removed from those old red frames and now have a total different look.  Gina plans to rotate the art on the wall.  She has a lot of pieces at home to use.

Two of my favorite wall items are an old Art Cliff menu from decades ago, and a framed photo a customer gave to Gina this past October.  The customer, a woman in her 70′s, told Gina that she had been coming to the diner since she was a child, and it was a special place for her.  She then sent a photo of her, and her brother, in front of the original diner.  With almost 70 years of history, I can only imagine the memories and stories that people have of this iconic Vineyard eatery.

There have always been fun, eclectic pieces on the walls and on the tables – interesting old coffee cups, juice glasses, porcelain figurines and such.  I always wondered how the pieces made their way to the diner.  Turns out that Gina is a big collector of knickknacks and has been since she was a kid.

She loves finding pieces at thrift stores and yard sales, and adding them to the diner.  She is a welcomed, frequent guest of Chicken Alley.  All of these mismatched vintage pieces help add to that classic, comfy diner feel.  Luckily she has an extensive collection at home from where she can grab pieces because a lot of the pieces from the diner become souvenirs for people.

Also, don’t forget to checkout the cool clock that will be added to the wall behind the counter.  It’s being a little finicky so I don’t know if it’ll be there opening day.  It will replace the silver one that’s been there.

On your next visit to The Art Cliff, be certain to take note of all the new things and enjoy all the things that have stayed the same — all in all a perfect blend of old and new.  Also, you’ll notice all the familiar faces with the staff, including Helen, Elle, Kara, Cynthia, Lisa, Caitlyn, and the newest addition Fallon.  Afterall, it’s the staff that keeps you coming back too.  The Art Cliff still feels like coming home when you walk through the door.

Something to be excited about come Memorial Day — you will be able to take home Art Cliff Diner Maple Syrup.  A little Artcliff in your own kitchen.  Just looking at the bottle makes one smile.  Talk about a delicious, fun soveniur for all of us who love the Art Cliff maple syrup!  Yummy!

While you’re checking out the On Point Art Cliff Facebook Photo Album, please feel free to Like Us on FB as well. You can also follow us on Twitter and Pinterest.

Expect Anything…..the mantra for PIKNIK, and it is so true. PIKNIK has been a fixture in the Arts District of Oak Bluffs for over 15 years.  It is the kind of store that makes you long for things they carry.

Owner Michael Hunter has an innate ability to find the extraordinary for home and self. Simply walk in the store and I guarantee the word “wow” will come out of your mouth a number of times.  From the apparel to the artists, Michael has an eye for those one-of-a-kind pieces that really set you apart from the crowd.

PIKNIK “Pop Up” in Edgartown

For the 2011 holiday season, Michael decided to host a “pop-up” store on Charles Street in Boston. He had no expectations for the store, but thought it made sense from a business perspective. He has a seasonal store on the Vineyard, why not have a seasonal store for the holidays on Beacon Hill. In a word – success. The Charles Street PIKNIK was a hit.

Not only did he introduce a number of Bostonians to PIKNIK style, but he also connected with a number of  new Martha’s Vineyard clients who were not familiar with PIKNIK in Oak Bluffs. This surprised me, but perhaps it’s because I live in the Arts District, and love the area, but Michael was not surprised. For him, PIKNIK is a destination store that has a strong following, but as we know, a number of people who visit the Vineyard, never leave the town they’re staying in. So, perhaps its time to bring PIKNIK to them.

Knowing this, Michael had an idea.  Why not have a “pop up” PIKNIK store in Edgartown? It’s a great destination in the Summer for shopping, and there’s an opportunity for a whole new clientele. So, he set off to find just the right space, and as fate would have it, the perfect space was available.

A friend of Michael’s, Ezra Sherman (a co-worker of mine at Point B Realty) had the ideal location, 11 Winter Street in Nevin Square. It had just became available, and the space could not have been better.

So Much More Than Clothes

I stopped by the Edgartown PIKNIK, which is opening later this month, but of course I had to see what Michael was doing with the space.  I immediately fell in love with this black sequin shirt (featured in the photo).  I think I walked around with it for about 15 minutes but had to leave it – for now.

That’s what happens when you walk into PIKNIK. Something will grab hold of you and you’ll have to buy it because you’ll most likely not see it again anywhere else.  PIKNIK carries the most amazing appareal –  Tracy Watts hats (the Cuba has to be the hat of the Summer), Johnny Farah leather goods, Sarti scarves, from Italy, Santa Maria Novella soaps and lotions – just a couple of examples of what you can find at both stores.  

These are things that you can’t get just anywhere, many of which are one-of-a-kind items. That’s what makes shopping here such a pleasure.  So many of us don’t want to wear the same things as everyone else. These are investment pieces.  That shirt that you wear all Summer long that never stops getting compliments.  That bag that you know thy neighbor is coveting. PIKNIK taps into that inner joy of shopping.

Before I forget, I have to mention that PIKNIK does carry an amazing selection for men as well. Sometimes I forget that it’s just as important for guys to have a little fun with their clothes too.

Also, wait until you see the fun accessories for your home you’ll find.  Crazy cool antiques that Michael finds when he is out and about, candles, acryllic walking sticks, and so much more.  You just have to stop by both stores to see the whole collection, since we’re talking about many things that there is only one of.

A special note for pickle enthusisast - I know you’re out there.  PIKNIK carries McClure’s Pickles - a must have Summer pantry staple.  Try the juice and a sliced pickle in place of olives in a dirty martini, and make your own dirty pickle.  The right pickle does matter, and don’t forget that they are great little hostess gifts

Diversity of Art

In addition to the amazing clothing and accessories, there are a number of artists featured at both locations including Paul Norwood, who spends his time painting on the Vineyard and in San Francisco. I am particularly fond of his “Blue Gulls” painting, part of the Martha’s Vineyard collection. He also features Dan VanLandingham, from West Tisbury, who has an incredible knack for making the ordinary interesting with his style of paining.  When you look at PIKNIK’s website or visit the stores, you’ll see a broad range of art and artists.  Beware, there is bound to be one or two pieces that you’ll want to bring home.

The PIKNIK “pop up” store is certain to be a great addition to the art and shopping scene in Edgartown. The clothing and accessories featured are going to jazz up shopping in Edgartown, and there is quite the art scene in that area including The Christina Gallery,  Eisenhauer Gallery and North Water Gallery, and now PIKNIK.  It’s the “arts district” of Edgartown.

Since we are a seaonal community in many ways, a “pop up” store really does make sense.  It allows business owners to have an opportuintiy to reach the Summer crowd, and it helps elimate vacant store fronts – even if it’s only temporary.  See you at PIKNIK in Edgartown, opening this month, and PIKNIK in Oak Bluffs, opening in June.

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When I had heard about Not Your Sugar Mamas and the raw chocolate they made, I was skeptical.  How could chocolate made from cacao and just a couple other natural ingredients be any good and actually good for you?  Isn’t it all that refined sugar and words I can’t pronounce that make chocolate so yummy? Curiosity peaked, I had to meet the people behind the chocolate, find out their story, and of course try it for myself.  Eating chocolate – sometimes my job really is so tough.

Behind the Chocolate

The creators of Not Your Sugar Mamas (NYSM), are two beautiful, funny, smart women, Bennett Coffey and Kyleen (Ky), Keenan.  Though they have only known each other for a short period of time, their relationship has changed their lives.

Bennett, who recently graduated from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in New York City, is a certified holistic nutrition counselor.  She found that the raw food concept for nutrition really resonated with her.  She felt as though she could help people through nutrition and do some good in the world.  She discovered raw chocolate and started experimenting with recipes.

Much to her surprise, she found that she felt better from eating raw chocolate.  It gave a natural energy boost that was sustained, not like that crash and burn boost from lets say a Twix bar.  She was happier and more energetic all around.  She knew she was on to something good, but really didn’t know the next step.

A friend of a friend introduces Ky and Bennett to each other.  Interestingly, Ky has a business background.  Disappointed with corporate America, she too wanted to find a way to do some good in this world.  They became roommates, and quickly became friends and much to their surprise, business partners.

While Bennett was experimenting with recipes for raw chocolate, Ky was trying them and is falling in love and feeling fantastic from eating the raw chocolate. Bennett as the chocolatier, Ky as the business guru, salesperson, taste-tester and more, they realized that there was an opportunity for them to do some good with this homemade, good-for-you chocolate.

So, Bennett and Ky decided it was time to make their chocolate available to more than just friends and family.  Last March, they opened Not Your Sugar Mamas. By June, they were selling their chocolate in 13 Island locations including Alley’s, Fiddlehead Farm, and the Tisbury Farmer’s Market.

Not even a year later, their chocolate can be found in 46 locations, which include on and off-island businesses.  With this type of growth and demand (and there is a demand), they decided it’s time to get a commercial space with the capacity to make the chocolate on the premises, and they’re doing just that with the store/chocolate “factory” they’re in the process of opening in the Tisbury Market Place.

Raw = Delicious and Good For You

Now, let’s get to the most important part – the chocolate.  Their chocolate is raw, meaning it is gluten free, sugar free, and every ingredient used is pronounceable.  They use organic ingredients like herbs, blue green algae and agave (instead of sugar).  Also, they use some of the most amazing, high quality cacao which they get directly from farmers in Peru – no middle man and done through “Direct Trade.”

Why would this chocolate be good for you and help you feel better?  Well, cacao has ananamide which we produce in our brains as well – it is considered “the bliss chemical”.  Meaning, you’ll feel good when you eat it, and it really is guilt free.  You’ll also find antioxidants and immune boosting ingredients in their products.  It really is a superfood!

Not Your Sugar Mamas have different chocolate bar flavors, like Fresh which is their Spring inspired flavor which has lemon verbena and vanilla, and Be Cool which has lavender and peppermint.  They’ll also be featuring a Summer flavor, and perhaps chocolate covered fruit too.

As I had said, I was skeptical, but I tried the Fresh chocolate bar and it is outstanding!  You can taste each ingredient, the lemon, the coconut, the rich cacao.  It melts in your mouth and leaves you wanting more.  It’s the chocolate for the chocolate lover and the lover of life.  The chocolate is so fresh, it has to be refrigerated.  Each bar is about $8.50, and though this may seem like a lot, it’s not.  The ingredients, because of the high quality, are expensive and that’s what we’re paying for.  Once you try it, you will see that it’s worth it.

Made in Vineyard Haven

Not Your Sugar Mamas will be opening their store in the Tisbury Market Place, next to Rocco’s, Memorial Day weekend.  When you stop by, you’ll actually find Bennett there making their delicious, beneficial raw chocolate.  Even though they sell NYSM in a number of places, each piece of chocolate is made and will be made here on Martha’s Vineyard.

Leave it to two Vineyard gals to bring something this fabulous to the masses.  Their store will definitely become a popular place to visit.  Who doesn’t want to enjoy the smell of chocolate being made and have a reason to buy some, as if you need one.  Also, there will be so much more than just chocolate.  You’ll also find their collection of dry goods which include hot chocolate mixes and good-for-you smoothie mixes, and they will be featuring Chilmark Coffee Company.

Yeah!  We will now be able to grab a cup of joe there and bring some home to brew.  Tisbury Market Place has needed a place to get a good cup of coffee for awhile!  There will also be other Island made items available.  Both Bennett and Ky are all about partnering with other people on the Island to help sell their goods at their shop.  One of the greatest things about the Vineyard, so much support among small business owners.  Also, be on the lookout for chocolate tastings and chocolate parties – yum!

It was so nice to meet Bennett and Ky – two amazing women are doing some good in our world through chocolate.  Pretty cool I’d say, and I think they are going to do quite well with Not Your Sugar Mamas.  If you are dying to try some raw chocolate and can’t wait for their store to open, you can head on up to Alley’s, or visit their website to purchase some.

Thank you for reading On Point.  Also please remember that I love any ideas you may have for posts and to “Like” us on Facebook and “follow” us on Twitter.

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Waiting is the hardest part

As many of you may know, I was pregnant with my second child.  If you’ve seen any of the real estate video house tours I did with Point B Realty, you’ll know I kept busy until the very end.  What woman doesn’t want to see herself  on video when she’s 39 weeks pregnant?  Not I, but for some reason with this pregnancy, I wanted to do as much as possible.  Perhaps the thought of having a newborn and a toddler, made me think that I would not be able to do a lot, but we all know that won’t be the case.

Welcome baby boy!

Our little boy was due April 3rd.  Rumor has it that your second baby will come early, but of course not ours.  He decided that he wanted to come on his own schedule, as did his big sister, Charly (Charlotte who is 21 months).  So, we waited, and waited a bit more, which is definitely hard at that point, since I felt like I was going to pop.  On Monday, April 9th, we welcomed our baby boy, 7-pounds, 9-ounces, 20.5 inches long.  He was born at the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital, at 7:26 pm, in room 3, same as his big sister, which is rumored to have good mojo, according to one of the nurses.

It was comforting to be in the same space, and even the birthing beads were still hanging from the same light fixture as during our 2010 visit with Charly.  I have to say that this was an even better birth experience.  My labor was shorter.  I was induced again, but with only Nancy Hugger, Cathy Chase, and Matt, my husband present, it seemed more intimate and relaxed.  We are really lucky to have had two great births at the MV Hospital.

Our first night together

Though we had Charlotte’s name months in advance, we could not agree on a name for this baby before his birth.  I was certain that once I saw him, the name would just come to us.  However, it did not happen like that.  It took us a couple of days to name him.  On Tuesday morning, he was Carter, but that was not a favorite among our family members.

So we went back to the drawing board, and Matt created yet another list.  On Wednesday morning, after many hours of talking about it and looking at him, we decided we both liked Anderson for his first name, and James as his middle name, after my father.  Now the big debate is whether we call him Andy or AJ?  One thing I am excited about is that I can finally order monogrammed stuff!

And baby makes four

One of things I was most nervous about with this pregnancy was the thought of going home and having two little ones under the age of 2, yes, I now have to say kids, plural, which is still hard to swallow.  I was also worried about introducing Anderson to Charly.

For the most part, she has been wonderful with him, a great big sister.  She is helpful, and wants to share all sorts of fun things with him.  I am frequently finding wooden letters or goldfish in his blanket and bouncy seat.  It is tough to divide my time between them, but we are learning our routine.  And I am learning to redefine myself as a mother of two, who will do her darndest to maintain my identity through it all.

As I continue to adjust, I am committed to at least one On Point blog post a week.  Also please remember that I love any ideas you may have for posts, espcially right now and to “Like” us on Facebook and “follow” us on Twitter.

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Bowl & Board building is getting a makeover as the new home of Bunch of Grapes

I had been hearing a little buzz here and there about Bunch of Grapes moving into the old Bowl and Board space, right across the street from their current location, and I, along with many others, didn’t necessarily believe it.  I really thought that Midnight Farm would be going into that space, and that Bunch of Grapes was staying put.  However, as Spring approached, I heard more and more convincing stories about the move, and it seemed as though it was true.  So of course I had to take a chance and write about.  If you missed it, check out  Is Bunch of Grapes About to Start a New Chapter in VIneyard Haven for more fun info.

Renovations inside

It was nice to have the story confirmed this week when I opened up the MV Timeson Sunday (I know I need to read it on Thursday), it is now official that the move is happening, and quickly!  Memorial Day weekend – whoohoo!  I have seen people working on the inside of the building for a while, but when did they install the new outside windows?  They look great – completely changes the look of the building, leaving me wanting to see more changes.  I can’t wait to see what the inside and outside looks like once it’s completed.  I am envisioning more greenery outside and of course outdoor seating (please – we need it so we can people watch and soak up that Vineyard Sun).   Also, I am so happy that it has been confirmed that you will be able to grab a coffee there!  I had heard this would be the case, and that it would be Waterside Market partnering with Bunch of Grapes to make this happen.  Not sure this is still going to happen, and I guess we’ll have to wait and see.

Will the clock have a new home too?

Moving this iconic Vineyard landmark will be a big deal for both Islanders and Visitors.  It has been a favorite for decades and change can sometimes be tough here as many of us know.  However, I think this change will be good.  It will be nice to have everything on one floor.  The space will feel connected, and you’ll be able to keep an eye on the kids while perusing the Staff Favorites section.  Now we just have to wait for another month to experience the new Bunch of Grapes, and of course we need to figure out what will be going in the old space which is quite large!  Perhaps Midnight Farm?  Wouldn’t that be an intereting twist?

Thank you for reading On Point.  Please remember to “Like” us on Facebook and “follow” us on Twitter.  Please note that for this post much of what I am writing about comes from what I’ve heard from people on the street.  So, please let me know if I am misinformed about anything.  Also, I welcome any suggestions for On Point.

Nestled behind Cottle’s Lumber in West Tisbury, you’ll find a working farm and a hidden gem, Lambert’s Cove Glass, which a friend of mine, Russell Carson, has been working at during the off-season.  The more we talked about it, the more I wanted to know about it.  So, I was happy to have the opportunity to write about this special place especially since I think a lot of people don’t know about it…yet.

As we drove past the idyllic farm scenery of Blackwater Farm, we came to a small building with the sign for Lambert’s Cove Glass.  The building is right next to the home of the creator, Alan Cottle.  It is a bright space that welcomes you with whimsical glass pieces as soon as you enter.  Throughout the space, you get to see all that goes into glassblowing, including the various sizes and colors of ground glass, the shaping tools specific to the craft, and of course the furnace and glory hole, used to reheat the glass so it can be manipulated.

Inspired By Nature

What started out as hobby for Alan, and he has many, including furniture making and painting, has turned into something more.  Last Fall, he partnered with Russell who has been working in glass for a number of years, to work on expanding his collection.  Through their collaboration, they have made some truly unique and beautiful pieces.

I would describe many of Alan’s designs as whimsical.  He enjoys working with bold colors and has a a fondness for flowers, which you’ll find in a number of pieces.  Creating one of their signature pieces, a vase with a flower and stem wrapped around it, is an arduous process. It requires the attention of two skilled glass blowers working with the different pieces in unison, when they are “hot.”  The end result is a piece of art where the beauty and detail of the flowers created can rival Mother Nature’s own.

Functional Can Be Fun

Alan also likes to make the basics interesting.  You’ll find a collection of glassware with playful color combinations, like teal and yellow which I really like, and make me think they’d work great for gin & tonics.  There are pieces made with speckled glass, and the beverage pitchers make you think of lemonade on a long for summer day, and relaxing outside with friends.  It’s funny the thoughts a piece of art can evoke.

In Love With A Lobster Buoy

Keeping on with playful glass pieces, my favorite signature piece of Lambert’s Cove Glass is their Lobster Buoy vase.  It’s so simple in it’s design, but yet such a great representation of Martha’s Vineyard and its love of fishing and lobstering, both past and present.  We see buoys hanging off boats and lobster traps all over the island, clusters of them in Menemsha, and even as road markers as you drive up island, but you’ve never seen them like this.  The glassblown version is fantastic.  I love the clean lines and the different color combinations.  It’s modern and classic at the same time.

No Two Pieces Will Ever Be Alike

In both their structured pieces and their functional pieces, Lambert’s Cove glass strives to capture the essence of an object in its true form.  They don’t strive for hard lines and symmetry but rather let the piece of glass have its own personality, its own soul.  No two pieces are alike, nor need they be.  It is about the process and the creation of something unique and beautiful, and personal too.

The art of glassblowing is a labor of love with an attention to detail and a level of patience that many other art forms do not require.  However, as with other mediums, a piece of the artist goes into each creation.  Once you get to know the artist, you can see which pieces are his and which were made by another.

Heading to Menemsha

This Summer, date to be determined, Alan is opening a store in Menemsha, next to The Copperworks, which is owned by Scott McDowell.  What a great location for featuring these unique, hand crafted pieces of art.  I can imagine that a number of their pieces, including the lobster buoy vase, are going to become a highlight for many Summer visitors and Islanders who are looking to capture some of the personality of Martha’s Vineyard.

Until the store is open, Lambert’s Cove Glass is open to having visitors, but it does not have any committed hours for stopping by. Your best bet is to give a call first to set something up, 508-563-0006.  You’ll find the gallery at Blackwater Farm, 40 Cottle Lane, West Tisbury (behind Cottle’s Lumber).  It was an amazing experience to learn about the process of glassblowing and about what they do as glassblowers, and their passion for creating beautful, perfectly imperfect pieces of art.

Thank you for reading On Point.  Let me know if you’ve gotten to enjoy any of the seasonal openings that are underway. Also, please remember to “Like” us on Facebook and “follow” us on Twitter.  I welcome any suggestions for blog topics.

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