Your guide to the heart of Litchfield County:
Discover local stories, hidden gems, and must-know events.

As it commemorates its 10th anniversary, Litchfield Distillery has much to celebrate: a  sought-after lineup of award-winning spirits, and the support of a community appreciative of its benevolence through the years.

From classics like double-barrel bourbon whiskey to small-batch cocktails such as a Manhattan and an Espresso Martini, to innovative honey barrel-finished gin, and seasonal surprises like blueberry vodka, the distillery has come a long way from its initial offerings.

When the Baker brothers—Jack, Peter, and Dave—launched their venture with two bourbons and a gin, they had already been part of a beverage legacy started by their grandfather in 1914: Crystal Rock, a Stamford-based water-bottling company. Employing a “strong business background,” Litchfield Distillery became their trademark and passion.

“It was never meant as a hobby,” recalls Peter. “We started with the ‘go big or go home’ mentality, committed to building a brand.” 

Today, the distillery portfolio exceeds 20 products. Ranging from peppery finishes to sweet maple touches and caramel notes, the bourbon whiskeys are handcrafted from 100 percent Connecticut-grown corn, barley, and rye—something the brothers are especially proud of.

“I think we’ve had a significant agricultural impact,” says Jack, reflecting on the 200 tons of locally harvested grains Litchfield Distillery purchases annually. “It’s a steady value that allows Connecticut farmers to survive, and that means a lot to us.”

“The Spirit of Hard Work” isn’t just a corporate motto, but the Baker brothers’ habit. Hands-on in every business aspect, they oversaw distillery expansion, and became a major distributor and the county’s largest tourist attraction—while being “committed to making a positive social impact.”

During the COVID-19 pandemic, they voluntarily converted to production of hand sanitizer for a year, under an emergency license from the FDA and the state. They distributed more than 250,000 bottles. 

“It was a scary time,” Peter reflects. “We supplied first responders because they had nothing, and we left a stocked table outside with a collection jar.” 

Ultimately, they collected $44,000, which they donated to FISH, the Torrington-based shelter and pantry.

That generous spirit is further reflected in interactions with approximately 10,000 bourbon aficionados who visit the distillery every year, excited to learn the process behind the spirits housed in some 1,600 barrels: malting, mashing, fermentation, distillation, and aging. Stored in American white oak charred barrels, the bourbons’ taste and color deepen with time.

Tours and samples are free because “it’s the right thing to do,” says Jack. “It’s our thanks to people who go out of their way to find us and stop by, and to support our brand.” 

The brothers gratefully reflect on their decade-long accomplishments: Named 2021 Connecticut Whiskey Distillery of the Year at the New York International Spirits Competition, Litchfield Distillery has earned many national awards, and the respect of whiskey clubs, who request its spirits.

“The product line is more than we expected,” notes Jack. “We’re proud of it, our relationships with customers, and the fact that Connecticut-grown farm products have become nationally winning and recognized.”—litchfielddistillery.com

By Clementina Verge

Photographs by Ryan Lavine

In 2024, Litchfield County’s real estate market remained robust despite higher inter-est rates and limited inventory. Most new homeowners were Brooklyn and Manhattantransplants, drawn by the allure of more space and fresh air. The county’s excellentschools, lower taxes, top-notch restaurants, and stunning rural landscapes provedirresistible to buyers. Below is a selection of properties that changed hands.

Elyse Harney Real Estate

High on top of  Wells Hill, this 6,155 sq. ft. Georgian Colonial estate is set on 6.23 acres, offering breathtaking panoramic views in one of Salisbury’s premier locations. With seven bedrooms and 7.5 baths, the home features a stunning great room with 12-foot barrel ceilings, a first-floor primary suite with a spa-inspired bath and private office, and three additional ensuite bedrooms with private sitting areas. A soundproof home theater, three-bedroom carriage house, radiant-heated barn with pool house, and heated gunite pool complete this elegant retreat. Minutes from Lakeville Lake and nearby villages, this estate epitomizes luxury country living.

Price: $5,045,000

Town: Salisbury

Listing Agents: Elyse Harney Morris and Thomas Callahan

William Raveis Lifestyles Realty
Hedgelawn Farm
Perched at the pinnacle of the land, this newly renovated circa 1900 barn-style main residence offers breathtaking western views over the Shepaug River Valley and Steep Rock Land Trust. The three-bedroom home features a wellness level, pool, and expansive entertaining terraces. For guests, the property includes a beautifully renovated two-bedroom circa 1762 antique farmhouse; and a circa 1900 one-room cottage with a full bath and kitchenette, perfect for overflow accommodations or an office, yoga studio, or artist space. The grounds feature two ponds, mature landscaping with specimen trees, a wall of rhododendrons, fruit orchards, berry bushes, and flat fields—a serene countryside retreat.
Price: $5,000,000
Town: Washington
Listing Agent: Pels Matthews

William Pitt Sotheby’s, The Kimron Team
Windswept Farm
This quintessential New England retreat masterfully blends the charm of its 1850 Colonial farmhouse origins with modern updates and expansions, all set on 7 acres of pastoral beauty. Ideal for equestrian pursuits, the property includes a striking red barn with overhead doors, hay storage, and a tack room. Additional features include a detached three-car garage with a spacious workshop above, a garden area, fruit trees, a paddock, and timeless stone walls. The perfect blend of history and modern functionality, this farm offers a picturesque escape.
Price: $1,660,000
Town: Litchfield
Listing Agents: Roland Leal and Kim D’Andrea

William Pitt Sotheby’s, At Home in the Hills Team
GrayBarn on Wononscopomuc Lake
Located on the shores of pristine Wononscopomuc Lake, this vintage converted barn home epitomizes effortless luxury. The property includes a main residence, a two-story barn, and a two-car garage. High ceilings, exposed beams, and reclaimed wide-plank wood floors accentuate the light-filled, open-concept living spaces. Custom-built by Churchill Building Company, the mudroom is both stylish and functional. With expansive lake views and abundant outdoor space, this Lakeville gem is a Litchfield County dream come true.
List Price: $2,999,000
Town: Lakeville
Listing Agents: Lenore Mallett and Elvia Gignoux

William Pitt Sotheby’s, The Kathryn Clair Team
This custom-designed Contemporary home is set on 25-plus magical acres with southwestern views, a heated gunite pool, and an aerated pond. The striking modern design features a three-level stone foyer leading to an open great room and a dining area with a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace. The updated kitchen boasts custom cabinetry, a large island, and a passive solar sunroom. Expansive decks offer breathtaking views of the pool, gardens, and level lawns, making this property ideal for both relaxation and entertaining.
List Price: $1,895,000
Town: Washington
Listed By: Kathryn Clair and Kathryn Bassett

Klemm Real Estate
This brand-new, state-of-the-art modern lake house offers four bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms, and breathtaking views of Lake Waramaug. Built by Pinnacle Peak, Inc., the home features Marvin windows, white oak floors, a custom kitchen, cedar siding, a granite stone veneer, and high-end appliances by Gaggenau, Wolf, and Miele. Additional amenities include a gas fireplace, elevator, central security system, backup generator, heated two-car garage, and a new floating wood dock. Professionally landscaped and set on 2-plus acres, this property combines luxury and privacy in a prime location.
Price: $4,500,000
Town: New Preston
Listing Agent: Peter Klemm

William Pitt Sotheby’s 

Historic Marsh-Whitlock House
Built in 1738, the Marsh-Whitlock House is the oldest recorded home in Warren. This exquisite Saltbox sits on 28-plus serene acres, complete with a pond, manicured gardens, and an orchard. The main house showcases historic details, including four fireplaces (one a cooking fireplace with a beehive oven), broad floorboards, original paneling, and exposed hand-hewn beams. The property also features a large detached barn and a luxurious modern sauna overlooking the pond, blending old-world charm with contemporary comfort.
Price: $1,650,000
Town: Warren
Listing Agents: Stephen Pener and Vanessa Henderson

William Pitt Sotheby’s, The Legacy Team
Step back in time with this classic Dutch-style farmhouse, blending pastoral charm with unique retro flair. Highlights include a 1950s-style diner, perfect for entertaining, and a baseball-themed lower level featuring memorabilia displays. The property boasts rolling pastures, traditional barns, a three-stall horse stable, and a pristine pool area with an outdoor kitchen. A true haven for equestrian enthusiasts and those seeking distinctive character, this Sherman estate encapsulates the essence of country living.
Price: $1,100,000
Town: Sherman
Sale Agent: Alan O’Doherty

Bain Real Estate
Situated in the heart of Kent Village, this four-bedroom, three and a half bath Colonial was custom built in 2010 by a master craftsman. Spanning 3,886 square feet, the home exudes traditional style and quality with features like wood-beamed great room ceilings, elegant windows, and a high-end kitchen designed for gathering. The main floor includes a primary ensuite, a formal dining room, and a large screened porch, while the second floor offers another primary suite and two additional bedrooms. Complete with a guest house and a 9-foot ceiling basement, this property is a showcase of timeless craftsmanship.
Price: $1,195,000
Town: Kent
Listing Agent: Chris Garrity 

William Raveis Lifestyles Realty
This charming Saltbox-style home, built in 1984, is nestled on a picturesque 2.07-acre lot in Bethlehem. The 2,604-square-foot residence features four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and two wood-burning fireplaces, creating a cozy, inviting ambiance. Listed for $449,000 in April 2024, the home sold for $500,000 in May 2024. A classic New England gem with timeless appeal.
Price: $500,000
Town: Bethlehem
Listing Agent: Alper Toydemir

Drakeley Real Estate
Set on 12 pristine acres of open meadow bordered by stone walls, this stunning country cape has been thoughtfully renovated with impeccable attention to detail. The property features five bedrooms, five full and two partial baths, four fireplaces, an in-ground gunite pool, a practice golf range, and both an attached three-car garage and a drive-under garage for additional storage. This Middlebury home blends timeless charm with modern amenities, offering a luxurious countryside retreat.
Price: $1,750,000
Town: Middlebury
Selling Agents: Tim Drakeley 

Christie’s International Real Estate Group, The Daniel Kramp Team

This sophisticated Palladian-style estate on 53 acres has five sun-filled bedrooms, seven baths, a dramatic two-story entryway, and breathtaking views of the Litchfield Hills. The chef’s kitchen has top-of-the-line appliances. A spacious primary suite on the main floor offers a wood-burning fireplace; upstairs are additional bedroom suites and an office. An elevator services all three floors. The garden level has a guest apartment, theater, gym, garden workroom, and access to a two-car garage. The pool/spa pavilion has an outdoor kitchen with two built-in grills. A stunning artist studio adds a perfect Ivory Tower to this magical estate. Also included in the sale were two adjacent properties with a guesthouse and a caretaker house.

Price: $9,225,530
Town: Washington 

Listing Agents: Daniel Kramp from Christie’s International Real Estate Group, Liza Reiss from Elyse Harney

Eleish Van Breems Home, the celebrated Scandinavian home furnishings and antiques brand, continues to thrive in New Preston, marking its second year in the charming Litchfield County village. Owners and lifelong friends Rhonda Eleish and Edie Van Breems, passionate advocates for Scandinavian design, have transformed their shop into a serene Nordic retreat where timeless craftsmanship meets the relaxed elegance of country living.

For Edie and Rhonda, this shop represents a meaningful homecoming. They began their business 28 years ago in an 18th-century house and barn in nearby Woodbury before moving to Fairfield County for family life. Now nestled in the historic former Dawn Hill Antiques building on 11 Main Street, the location—once New Preston’s post office and market—overlooks a stunning waterfall that only adds to its charm. “It’s truly full circle for us,” says Rhonda Eleish.

Inside, visitors will discover a carefully curated mix of Gustavian and Rococo antiques, Scandinavian mid-century furniture, and modern designs from Verellen, Cane-line, and Thayer Coggin. The collection also features lighting by Louis Poulsen and St. Louis, as well as tableware, linens, and home goods from Scandinavian heritage brands like Skultuna, Marimekko, and Gustavsberg. Whether you’re seeking sophisticated contemporary furniture or one-of-a-kind gifts, Eleish Van Breems Home has something special for everyone.—www.evbantiques.com

By Frances Chamberlain

You’ve put your garden to bed and the summer markets have closed, but there is another option in Litchfield County. The Silo, 44 Upland Road, New Milford, has an indoor Farmers Market every Saturday, 10 am to 1 pm. They provide a delicious array of fresh produce, meats, and other organic products.

Also, Dino Kolitsas, chef-owner of Greca in New Milford, offers lunches like asparagus soup, lamb burgers, and French toast, often with ingredients from the Farmers Market.

Nicky Zooks, a 9^th grader, the youngest vendor, makes fresh mozzarella on-site. He learned this as a child and went professional last year.

Murphy’s Mushrooms features Italian Oyster mushrooms, Chestnut, Black Pearl, and Lion’s Mane. Symbiosis Microgreens offers amaranth and basil for tasting and sells greens including radishes, broccoli, and pea shoots.

The Health Rescue’s hot drink includes cacao, seaweed, and Lion’s mane mushrooms. A turmeric-ginger mix is very popular.

Pawling Coffee Roaster sources beans from around the world. There is maple syrup from Litchfield Distillery.  Bittersweet Ranch features duck products, and Mayapple Farm provides all cuts of their sheep.

A chocolatier, cheese producer, and fresh fish will join next week. The purpose, according to organizer Alessandro Piovezahn, is “to serve and survive.”  With warm weather, they plan to spill out of the barn and feature arts and crafts made by local youth.

To contact call 860-868-0380 or visit www.thesilo.org.

Where Quality and Memories Intersect

By Clementina Verge

For 100 years, Merritt Clarke’s Store in Bantam has encapsulated quality and service. Named after the man who established it, today the reins belong to Yvonne Gilyard, who has kept Clarke’s story intact while adding her own chapters to it. 

“It’s about resilience, loyalty, the willingness to understand customer needs and wants, and always insisting on quality,” Gilyard shares.

The legacy began in 1923, when Merritt Clarke became a door-to-door businessman, outfitting area residents by selling clothing and footwear from his truck.

In 1943, when the tires on his Ford Model AA wore out and World War II made rubber a rare commodity, he parked in the barn behind his home, added shelves, and launched a store. 

Gilyard met Clarke when she and her late-husband Kent moved to town in 1979. She watched Clarke defy competition for decades—with no advertising or even a sign on the door.

Upon Clarke’s death in 1992, a nephew inherited the business but intended to close it. Gilyard wasn’t going to let that happen. In fact, she was determined to expand it. 

In 1993, she purchased it all: the merchandise, famous truck, barn, and land. When the house next door went on the market, Gilyard acted. 

After a few lives of its own—a 1795 inn along a stagecoach route, a boarding house, 1970s apartments, and eventually a private residence—1101 Bantam Road underwent extensive renovations and became the new home of Merritt Clarke’s Store.

“It’s a true ‘mom and pop’ store infused with Yvonne’s care and commitment to quality,” says her husband, David Reynolds, whose artistic eye for detail has also transformed the property.

From Clarke’s old money safe, to exposed original beams, a colonial red fireplace, and a staircase crafted with reclaimed wood from Vermont, the rustic space is inviting and immaculate.

With a quintessential New England feel, it features local products including soy candles, soaps, maple syrup, Squamscot soda, established in New Hampshire in 1863, and Raye’s Mustard, crafted on the Maine coast since 1900.

“It’s very important to us to offer items that tell stories, capture histories, and are also of outstanding quality,” Reynolds notes.

As always, from rainwear to barn boots, clothing and footwear are main attractions. The business that once represented 15 brands now features about 75. The first floor “honors America’s laborers” while the second includes mostly women’s apparel.

From Carhartt workwear to Aventura organic cotton shirts, Muck boots, Dovetail denim, and Schott peacoats, shelves brim with high-quality brands. Woolrich. Arborwear. Pendleton. Gilyard researches every line, ensuring durability from companies with proven customer service.

Unlike in Clarke’s day, shoppers may touch clothes and no one is dispatched to a cold, dark cellar to try them on, Gilyard jokes. “The book” inscribed with the names and sizes of everyone who ever bought boots at Merritt Clarke’s is now cherished memorabilia, replaced by electronic records. But the human connection has remained.

“This store and its customers mean a tremendous deal to me,” Gilyard reflects. “It surpasses transactions. I love the interaction, conversations, and friendships. They are a part of this story.” 860-567-9221

In Litchfield County it truly does take a village—and in each village there are organizations that do a wonderful job helping people and animals in our community. These nonprofits need our help in a range of ways. Of course, there are numerous food pantries, land trusts, schools, arts organizations, pet shelters, and libraries that also need a helping hand. Reach out to your favorites to see how you can help.

Housatonic Youth Service Bureau
Strengthening the emotional health of youth and families through free behavioral health services and empowerment programs in the Northwest—hysb.org

The Little Guild
For more than 60 years, The Little Guild has been dedicated to rescuing, healing, and individually nurturing homeless dogs and cats.—littleguild.org

Habitat for Humanity of NW CT
Building stronger communities, helping families achieve strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter. Donate or volunteer.—habitatnwct.org

Sharon Audubon Center
A nature education center with four nature sanctuaries and more than 2,100 primarily wooded acres, a Wildlife Rehabilitation Clinic,  trails, exhibits, summer programs for children and more. Donate or volunteer.—sharon.audubon.org

Visiting Nurse and Hospice of Litchfield County
Health and hospice care services to Litchfield County, including home nursing, and clinics for blood pressure, vaccinations, and more.—vnhlc.org

ASAP!
A nonprofit fostering creative learning through the arts for diverse families across 100 towns since 1999.—asapct.org

Steep Rock Association
Protects more than 5,500 acres of land, promoting healthy ecosystems, preserving natural resources, and providing recreational opportunities.—steeprockassoc.org

Flanders Nature Center & Land Trust
Protects open space and natural resources in Woodbury, actively identifying future land preservation opportunities.—flandersnaturecenter.org

Animal Welfare Society
Since 1965 has rescued hundreds of homeless cats and dogs, providing care and finding them loving homes.—aws-shelter.org

Pomperaug River Watershed Coalition
Promotes science and education to ensure high-quality water in the Pomperaug Watershed through collaboration and community engagement.—pomperaug.org

FISH: Friends in Service to Humanity of NWCT
Supports the homeless with a 35-bed shelter, and meets food needs for 643 families at the FISH Food Pantry year-round in Torrington.—fishnwct.com

Helping Hands for Wildlife
Dedicate themselves to rehabilitating injured or orphaned native wildlife, releasing them back into their natural habitats.—helpinghandsforwildlife.org

Greenwoods Counseling & Referrals
Offers affordable mental health services in Litchfield County, matching individuals with resources for emotional and psychological support.—greenwoodsreferrals.org

JP Farm Animal Sanctuary
A safe haven for rescued farm animals, the sanctuary promotes compassion, shares inspiring stories, and fosters deep connections with visitors.—jpfarmsanctuary.org

Project SAGE
Works to create a community free of domestic violence, providing a 24-hour hotline, emergency shelter, counseling, and education.—project-sage.org 

Food Rescue US/NWCT
Mission is to fill plates, not landfills. Involves 39 donors, 130 volunteers, and 28 food pantries serving 20,000 food-insecure residents in Litchfield County.––foodrescue.us

Loaves and Fishes Hospitality House
For more than three decades, New Milford’s Loaves and Fishes has provided daily meals, inspired by the motto “Feed the hungry, empower the weak.”––loavesandfishesofnewmilford.org

Susan B. Anthony Project
Offers 24/7 crisis and support services for domestic violence and sexual assault victims. Support their efforts this holiday season.—sbaproject.org 

Litchfield County Creating Hope Corp
LCCH helps those affected by suicide and raises mental health awareness, providing financial assistance to families and scholarships for education in Connecticut.—lcchcorp.org

New Milford Hospital
Join New Milford Hospital’s team of volunteers to make a difference. Opportunities include animal assistance, music therapy, hospitality, and more. Email volunteer@nuvancehealth.org or call 203-739-7277.  

Camella’s Cupboard
Provides year-round hunger relief to children, seniors, and vulnerable populations in Greater New Milford, without bias.—camellascupboard.com

Chore Service
Since 1992, Chore Service has provided essential non-medical support for seniors and disabled residents in northwest Connecticut, fostering a healthy community.—choreservice.org

Literacy Volunteers on the Green
Offers free English literacy instruction to adults in Litchfield and northern Fairfield Counties, promoting independence through reading, writing, and speaking skills.—lvg-ct.org

The Donkey’s Cross Rescue and Sanctuary 
Rescues and rehabilitates unwanted donkeys. Their mission now extends to helping special needs children through their “Read to a Donkey” program.—thedonkeyscross.org

Northwest Connecticut Land Conservancy
Protects more than 12,000 acres of natural and working lands, including 23 public preserves and 30-plus farms.—ctland.org

Housatonic Valley Association
A Tri-state nonprofit dedicated to conserving the Housatonic watershed’s natural character and health, through land and water protection, water quality monitoring, and trail development.—hvatoday.org

CJR Impact
Providing the necessary therapeutic treatment, education, and support for young people and their families to promote positive change and transform lives. —cjrimpact.org

Fundación Perros Sin Nombre
Mission is building a shelter, rescuing animals, providing medical care, and promoting responsible pet ownership.—perrossinnombre.org

Housatonic Habitat for Humanity
Support Housatonic Habitat’s Aging in Place program to provide free, crucial home repairs for low-income seniors and veterans, helping them live safely and independently at home. —HousatonicHabitat.org

Photos by Tony Vengrove, Styled by Beth Fowler

The holidays fill a need—for joy and excitement, gathering together, and the deeper things of life. Done well, it’s a season with equal parts celebration and serenity. Letting that inner mirth bubble over by gifting those in our sphere should be FUN …and simple. Shopping local not only keeps it easy, but ensures your gifts are unique to the Litchfield County way of life.

Creature Comfort
Seeing friends and family at this time of year is certainly special. But when January rolls around, only one remains by your side to slog out winter: that precious pooch (or two or three)! Make sure they’re spoiled with a stylish new Canine Styles barn-and-horseblanket coat, available at not one but two Depot Dog locations in Litchfield County. These plush coats aren’t just sporting, they’re warm and functional, too. While you’re at it, you can stock up on local, sustainable, and artisanal treats for your favorite dog and cat at this unique pet boutique. $95+
11 Titus Road, Washington Depot, 860-619-0430
7 North St., Litchfield, 860-361-6001 
—depotdogboutique.com

Ringing in a Decade
In honor of its 10th anniversary, Litchfield Distillery is rolling out its first seven-year-old bourbon whiskey. Bottled under their prestigious Founders’ Reserve appellation, this expression is distilled from Connecticut-Grown grains and bottled at 100 proof. Every bottle is handsigned by each of the three distillery owners (David, Jack, and Peter Baker). The bourbon is lush, with delicious butterscotch notes and a hint of cinnamon. The special spirit also comes packaged in a limited-edition wood gift box, with a 10th anniversary Glencairn glass, and a note card for easy gifting. Stop by seven days a week (and check out the complimentary tastings and tours). $89.95
569 Bantam Road, Litchfield, 860-361-6503—LitchfieldDistillery.com

Give Them A Moment
You hear it all the time: “Just give me a moment, please!” This season, give someone permission to retreat, with this 20-minute candle gift set from The Safari Collective. The rose-gold tin contains 20 tiny candles, each of which burns for precisely 20 minutes—time to squeeze in a mini-workout, meditation session, or power nap. The kit also includes a stand, matches, and user guide. The 100% beeswax candles are crafted in the USA and are just the type of conscientious product you expect to find within the hip confines of The Safari Collective. This is the perfect item to stock up on for friends, colleagues, hosts …and that person you forgot! $30
The Safari Collective, 57 Bank St., New Milford 860-210-7901 — thesafaricollective.com

Yum and Done!
For some, there’s nothing better than the gift of a fabulous meal. Keep the cashmere sweater—show me a Sunday brunch, signature cocktails, and a cool place to catch up with friends! They’ll find it at Good Eats Restaurant & Bar, by the Housatonic River in New Milford. Good Eats just celebrated two years, with executive chef Kevin Deluca continuing to crank out modern American cuisine influenced by Korean, Mediterranean, British, and Indian flavors.The tap beers are local, the fries are triple cooked, and the service is top notch. Land here after a day of holiday festivities, and leave with gift cards for everyone on your list. 
300 Kent Road, New Milford, 860-799-6611 —goodeatsrestaurant.com

Elevated Beauty
Indulge your friends, loved ones, and colleagues this holiday season with a gift from LaFrance Medical Aesthetics. For over a decade, this medical practice has ensured natural, subtle results, and exceptional service with every rejuvenating or transformative visit. Select from their most popular treatments—Clear + Brilliant® laser, Botox® Cosmetic, and DiamondGlow®—or let your giftee choose a service for themselves with their go-to gift card. Mention this offer with your $500 gift card purchase and receive a complimentary Alastin Holiday Bag (value $130). There’s something for all the special people in your life. 
17 Old Barn Road, Kent, 860-845-8296
72 Pine St., Bristol, 860-845-8296—LaFranceMed.com

Winter Chill
Treat your loved ones (and yourself) to a Spaliday in the Hills this giving season. This limited-edition package is the ultimate gift of relaxation, designed to envelop you in tranquility with a 50-minute Cause+Medic CBD Massage, OSEA Organic Spa Facial, Spa Pedicure and Spa Manicure. You can also build your own spa day from The Spa’s thoughtfully curated menu of beauty, health, and wellness experiences. Gift cards to this award-winning salon and day spa can be purchased online, by phone, or in the boutique. In-store pickup and shipping available. $430
The Spa at Litchfield Hills, 407A Bantam Road, Litchfield, 860-567-8575—litchfield-spa.com

Rare and Exquisite 
For that one-of-a-kind person, only something unique will do. New Preston’s third-generation family jeweler, Hays Worthington, specializes in fine and period jewelry—and, at this time of year, jeweled holiday trees. Their featured piece this season is a special New England country church brooch, circa 1930. The art deco design nestles a steepled church between two topiaries, surrounded by a jeweled forest. The bauble brings a burst of holiday sparkle and magic, with diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds, and onyx. Handmade in platinum, and approximately one inch by one inch, this gift is proof that good things come in small packages. 
13 East Shore Road, New Preston, 860-619-0714—haysworthington.com

Onyx Jewelers
1 18k yellow gold one-of-a-kind crescent moon with vintage diamonds, $14,000 2 14k yellow gold confetti set diamondcigar band, $3,250 3 Black South Sea Tahitian pearls with 14k white gold and black diamond clasp, $4,900 4 18k yellow golddiamond starburst with dendritic opal drops, $4,475 5 14k yellow gold and black rhodium diamond scatter band, $2,700 6 14k yellow gold and diamond geometric hoop earrings, $2,400 7 14k yellow gold and diamond radiating charm, $2,650 8 14k yellow gold mixed paper clip link charm chain.
740 Main Street, Woodbury, 203-405-1969—OnyxJewelers.com

By Michelle Madden
Photos by Phil Dutton

What is it about snow globes that draw us in? Is it the sense of familiarity and the knowledge that it will always be the same, whether we pick it up again in a minute or in a year? Holiday in the Depot, put on by the Washington Business Association and by Washington Parks & Recreation, is our snow globe: A cherished winter tradition, held in the snug hamlet of Washington Depot for the last 33 years. 

On Friday, December 13, approximately 3,000 friends and families will gather. A horsedrawn wagon will take bundled travelers into the cold, and Santa will welcome children to his lap. Local businesses will throw open their doors, hot chocolate will be enjoyed and songs will be sung. Kids will get lost with their friends, reveling in the freedom of the night; when hands are cold and bodies weary, they’ll be found again.  

 “I have Polaroids of my girls, taken over 20 years, sitting on Santa’s lap. In the toddler years there were sometimes tears, later there were boyfriends, but the constant was always Santa,” shares Michelle Gorra, a Washington resident and Economic and Community Development director for the Town of Washington.

What keeps this tradition going year after year is the sense of pride and commitment to the community. The tree is always lit by individuals who have made a significant contribution to the town. Last year, it was a group of Shepaug coaches and their winning teams. One year, Ray Reich (a former member of Park and Rec) trailed behind the horse wagon with a large shovel. “If you’re looking for the Stars Hollow/Gilmore Girls vibe, this is it,” shares Kerry Gallagher, who used to come as a young child and now works at the Hickory Stick Bookshop. 

Every organization contributes: Judy Black Park & Gardens has invited Frosty the Snowman, who will arrive in a red vintage truck. National Iron Bank will host a marshmallow roast. The library will host children’s activities. The Food Market will welcome craftspeople to sell wares out front. The Washington Primary School chorus will sing. And the Hickory Stick will continue its tradition of serving eggnog and shortbread. 

Jenn Pote, Community Services director for the Town of Washington, said the event keeps growing. “We now draw from a wider reach as friends bring friends; but the feeling of connection is still strong.”

Adding to the wonderland are the fairy lights, hanging like earrings from the mighty oaks. It began with one, spread to four, and has now multiplied to a dozen trees that stay lit all season. They are the stars in a dark winter sky—and now an integral part of Washington’s winter.

There has never been a year in the event’s history, when the show did not go on. During the pandemic the event was transformed into a drive-through with colored lights on firetrucks and cars. Songs were still sung, and Santa still waved. COVID raged, but in the Depot, Christmas went on.  

—explorewashingtonct.com

Creating Beautiful Keepsakes Since 1970

By Clementina Verge
Photos by Ryan Lavine

Intricate diamond necklaces or rugged cord bracelets—jewelry captures attention, reflects individuality, and often carries emotional significance.

“More than an accessory, jewelry is a reminder, a keeper of meaning and memory, a way to express yourself and your story, ” reflects James Michael Murphy, designer and managing partner at Onyx in Woodbury. “From generation to generation, it stands the test of time and can be enjoyed in its original state or repurposed into a new piece.”

Legacy and repurposing have been woven into the Onyx story since 1970, when Zenaida Perez founded it after she fled Cuba. Grandson Daniel Sanchez spent his childhood at her side and, after briefly attending law school, “passion for jewelry and Onyx” propelled him to return and assume leadership in 2005.
“As I reflect on my life and the history of Onyx, a story that comes to mind is one told by a decades-long client,” Sanchez reminisces. 

She remembers walking into the original Onyx in Waterbury in the mid 1980s and, while browsing, she heard a little voice asking, “Can I help you?” She turned toward the showcase, but didn’t see anyone. Again, the little voice asked, “Can I help you?” This time, she leaned over the displays to see a boy not yet tall enough to reach the counter looking up at her. That little boy was Sanchez.

“Hearing her tell this story made me smile, and retelling it makes me smile to this day,” he notes. “I guess I always had this business in my blood. I wasn’t old enough to know it then, but something about the jewelry store was inherently appealing: the beauty, glamor, and artistry captivated my young imagination. I ended up where I was meant to be, and I am so lucky to be able to do what I love and to have taken Onyx to a new level.”

“Our aesthetic certainly sets us apart,” says Murphy, who joined Onyx in 2013, further propelling it from a tiny storefront to a show-stopping space. “Everyone is vocally taken by its design, feeling as though we have brought Manhattan to the Hills.” 

In a way, they did. Before settling in Connecticut, he and Sanchez resided in New York City, bringing its sophisticated residential allure into the store with inviting fireplace seating and beautiful artwork. The jewelry is similarly striking.

“Custom design and redesign is our calling card,” states Murphy, who has designed thousands of engagement rings alone. 

“Great collections say something about you,” he remarks, encouraging clients to value pieces beyond trendiness and material status. “If I laid out my jewelry, walked away, and you didn’t know anything about me, I’d like to think it tells a story of who I am, and serves as a window into what I appreciate and where I’ve been.”

Moving forward, Onyx remains committed to meticulous craftsmanship and meaningful customer relationships.

“We love being part of the experience, the memory,” says Murphy. “All I’ve ever wanted is to leave this world more beautiful than I found it, and I hope I’m spreading beauty through jewelry making its way into someone’s life.”—onyxjewelers.com