Spring is BLOOMing in Newport!
Spring in Newport is gorgeous! Whether you visit Bowen’s Wharf restaurants, Bowen’s Wharf shops or stroll along the Cliff Walk, you become mesmerized by the coastal beauty of Newport, Rhode Island.
My mind is still processing my Newport trip to attend the BLOOM New England Coastal Creative Conference that is the mastermind of Kim Thomas. It was held at one of the best hotels in Newport-Hotel Viking. Hotel Viking is located in central Newport; walkable to both downtown Newport and to the coastal Cliff Walk. Hotel Viking also has a lovely pool with the perfect backdrop for photo ops.
Ok, let me tell you about my amazing conference experience! I arrived in Newport on Monday afternoon. Once I unpacked, I met with a friend for an early dinner at Pasta Beach (walkable from Hotel Viking and their Carbonara is fabulous!). I wanted to eat early as us New England Coast Creative Members were generously invited to the Kiel James Patrick flagship store at Bowen’s Wharf for cocktails and hors d'oeuvres!
They are the loveliest, most generous people to open their flagship store for all of us! This year they had music provided by a talented DJ, Ethical Drift, and their gracious employees were all there to greet us and provide us with Prosecco as we entered. I think all who attended would agree that the hit of the show was the frozen Newport Lemonade with KEEL Vodka!
The next morning we kicked off the day with a continental breakfast that gave us a chance to mingle prior to the full line-up of amazing speakers! One of which was Gray Malin! Yes, the amazingly-talented photographer, Gray Malin! He spoke during our lovely luncheon that had beautifully designed tablescapes by Lydia Menzies. She completely pulled off gorgeous tablescapes with a Gray Malin influence. Another “awe moment” was the incredible cake designed by Julie McAllister. This cake was flown in from Charleston; as in it had its own seat!
Following the conference the first evening, was a sip and shop where some NECC members signed up to showcase and sell their creations. There were so many lovely things available to purchase, including Gray Marlin’s newest book, Coastal. In addition to being able to make purchases, we had the opportunity to receive Oscar-worthy swag bags full of goodies! Thank you, Kim!
The line-up of speakers were fantastic; each speaker brought their wealth of knowledge to us creative entrepreneurs. I’m grateful I was able to attend once again and to now be able to call many of the fellow business owners I’ve met through the New England Coastal Creative Group, “friends”.
Reach out with any questions you might have concerning this wonderful group of fellow creatives. If you’re curious at all about my creative business, visit Chic Peony Boutique. Thank you for being here!
Regina…xo
📷 Blog Cover Photo (from left to right):
Regina Salafia, Chic Peony Boutique
