Beyond the Scene: My Hamptons Blueprint for Building a Powerful, Fabulous Community
For those of us whose lives are rooted in the electric pace of New York City, The Hamptons is more than just a destination—it's a promise. We're incredibly blessed to be so close to this paradise, a sanctuary where the world slows down and the gorgeous beaches feel like they stretch on forever. It’s my personal escape to recharge, think bigger, and reconnect with what truly matters.
There's a version of the Hamptons you see in magazines—all spectacle and scene. But the Hamptons I love is a quieter, more intentional world, found in the underrated elegance of Amagansett. It’s here, where the light hits differently and the ocean feels like the most beautiful beach in the world, that I wanted to bring a vision to life.
This summer, my company, We-Rule, launched an intimate gathering that was a true collaboration of taste and purpose, sponsored by the arbiters of style, Modern Luxury Magazine. We partnered with the exquisite Belgian outdoor furniture brand Royal Botania and made my absolute favorite hotel, The Roundtree, Amagansett, our home base. This wasn't just an event; it was a curated experience and a love letter to a core belief I hold as a founder: the most powerful form of mentorship is an intentionally built community.
We gathered powerhouse female founders, visionary interior designers like the brilliant Elena Frampton, and legacy keepers like Gabby Karan de Felice, Donna Karan's daughter. My goal was simple: to celebrate the women building the future by creating a space where they could be supported by the women who have built the foundation.
Here’s what I believe makes for a truly impactful gathering, and how you can apply the same principles to building your own powerful network.
The Soul of the Stay: Why True Hospitality is a Form of Mentorship
Our home for this experience was The Roundtree, Amagansett, a woman-owned gem that proves hospitality is about so much more than just an exquisite room. It's about anticipating needs, creating a sense of effortless elegance and belonging, and providing a space where people feel cared for enough to be their most authentic selves.
From the beach cruisers waiting to explore the quiet lanes to the warm welcome for a furry friend, every detail is an act of consideration. This level of care is a form of mentorship in itself. It teaches you to demand a higher standard in your own business and reminds you that the so-called "soft skills" of empathy and attention to detail are what create true luxury and lasting loyalty. It set the perfect tone for everything that followed.
The Art of Curation: A Community Built on Shared Values
An impactful gathering isn't about who is in the room, but about the values they share. Every partner we chose was a testament to female leadership, artistry, and legacy.
A Taste of Legacy: Wölffer Estate Rosé: Sipping Wölffer Estate rosé isn't just a Hamptons ritual; it's an appreciation of a brand steered to new heights by Joey Wölffer after her father's passing. It’s a lesson in honoring a legacy while courageously forging your own path.
The Art of a Thriving Local Business: Amber Waves Farm & Flowers by Beth: We connected with the women-led Amber Waves Farm, a non-profit dedicated to changing the local food game. Their commitment to community and sustainable agriculture is a masterclass in purpose-driven business. Paired with stunning arrangements from Flowers by Beth, it was a reminder that the most successful businesses are deeply rooted in their local ecosystem.
The Power of Heritage: Thayer's Hardware: Even the iconic Thayer's Hardware in Bridgehampton, a landmark since 1890, is now in the hands of a woman leader. She is not just running a store; she is a steward of history, proving that female leadership is essential in preserving heritage just as it is in forging the future.
This intentional curation created an environment where conversations went deeper. We weren't just networking; we were sharing stories of resilience, creativity, and the unique challenges and triumphs of being a female founder.
My Playbook: An FAQ for Hosting Your Own Impactful Gathering
I'm a big believer in sharing the playbook. Many people asked how we put together an event with such a distinct, high-touch feel. Here’s my blueprint.
How do you choose the right venue? Look for a venue that embodies the values of your event. For me, The Roundtree’s status as a woman-owned business with impeccable, personal hospitality was non-negotiable. Don't just book a space; book an experience that tells part of your story for you.
What’s the secret to a great guest list? Think "curation," not "numbers." I focused on bringing together a diverse group of women from different industries—design, wellness, retail, tech—who were united by a shared spirit of collaboration over competition. The magic always happens at the intersection of different worlds.
How do you move beyond superficial networking? Create shared experiences. Instead of a standard cocktail party, we facilitated a long-table dinner with conversation prompts under the stars, surrounded by the elegance of Royal Botania’s collection. We organized a walk on the beach. Shared activities break down barriers and allow for more authentic connections to form.
How do you select partners and sponsors? Every partner is a content opportunity and a reflection of your brand. Choose partners whose stories align with your message. We didn't just have wine; we had wine from a brand with a powerful female leadership story. This adds layers of meaning and shows an incredible, luxurious attention to detail.
The Takeaway: Build Your World Intentionally
This summer and fall, as you navigate your own professional journey, I encourage you to be intentional. Show up for the women building the future. Shop local, connect deeply, and find the mentors who guide you not just with their words, but with the example of their work.
Your community is your greatest asset and the foundation of a truly fabulous life. Build it with care, and it will build you right back.
