Once upon a time, I was raised by two very creative individuals. My father was a scenic designer/art director for film, television and live theatre. My mother owned a gorgeous general store on Main Street in East Hampton, New York. She was of Scandinavian descent, and loved the spirit Christmas, as if she created it herself.
In her shop at Christmas time, she featured an array of imports from Europe and carefully curated products from the local community. One could find German toys, Swedish ornaments, French dishware, and locally made artful items or every genre. Over the holidays, she served Glögg in her shop- hot mulled wine that spoke directly to her heritage. This was the era before "The Hamptons" was coined- during the 1970's. At that time, each of the villages on The East End retained their individual names.
In her shop at Christmas time, she featured an array of imports from Europe and carefully curated products from the local community. One could find German toys, Swedish ornaments, French dishware, and locally made artful items or every genre. Over the holidays, she served Glögg in her shop- hot mulled wine that spoke directly to her heritage. This was the era before "The Hamptons" was coined- during the 1970's. At that time, each of the villages on The East End retained their individual names.
You can imagine my delight when I was invited to stay at The Loren at Pink Beach to attend and experience their First Annual Holiday Market! I would be in my truest element, without a doubt- Christmas time, Bermuda, a celebration of local businesses!
Following a flawless flight, I was elated to arrive at The Loren. The entrance was flanked with Christmas trees decorated in baubles and seashells. The designer of these beauties picked the perfect shade of light to cast a Bermudian pink glow over the branches- as only an art director would.
As I unpacked my bags in my oceanfront suite, I peeked out on my balcony to survey the status of preparations. The market would be held on The Lorens large circular "disc"- the sight of weddings and special events. It would begin at 4:30 pm, leaving ample time for visitors to enjoy a bit of day light, before the near-full moon would take prominence in the sky.
Hour by hour, the market took shape with various Christmas kiosks set up that would serve food and drink. With my father's genes front of mind, I appreciated the flawless efforts of the Event Staff. They showed impeccable taste, efficiency and an eye for pure magic.
Vendors trickled in, each occupying a full table with a fresh white table cloth- an empty canvas on which to display their wares amidst festive lights and unique decor. Anticipation was in the air- an essential element at Christmas time!
Following a flawless flight, I was elated to arrive at The Loren. The entrance was flanked with Christmas trees decorated in baubles and seashells. The designer of these beauties picked the perfect shade of light to cast a Bermudian pink glow over the branches- as only an art director would.
As I unpacked my bags in my oceanfront suite, I peeked out on my balcony to survey the status of preparations. The market would be held on The Lorens large circular "disc"- the sight of weddings and special events. It would begin at 4:30 pm, leaving ample time for visitors to enjoy a bit of day light, before the near-full moon would take prominence in the sky.
Hour by hour, the market took shape with various Christmas kiosks set up that would serve food and drink. With my father's genes front of mind, I appreciated the flawless efforts of the Event Staff. They showed impeccable taste, efficiency and an eye for pure magic.
Vendors trickled in, each occupying a full table with a fresh white table cloth- an empty canvas on which to display their wares amidst festive lights and unique decor. Anticipation was in the air- an essential element at Christmas time!
It would be impossible for me to include the names of all of the vendors that attended. Suffice it to say, the variety of merchandise for sale was a lovely medley. Among the many potential purchases were: holiday wreaths, handmade artwork, jewelry, photography, locally created Bermuda merchandise, Christmas cakes shaped as Bermuda cottages, lovely Christmas decorations made from Bermuda cedar, shells and sea glass, plush baby toys (including sea turtles, sea horses and a Long Tail!), natural self care products... the list goes on! Something for everyone on your list.
The weather was idyllic. It was very warm and humid- much more so than I had anticipated for December. I chose a floral dress (with ample red and green) in Voile Cotton. I donned bling and silver sandals. No wrap needed!
As I descended the beautiful sweeping stone staircase to witness a thriving party taking shape, I was greeted with a welcome class of champagne and the opportunity to buy tokens for delicious bites that were being served by The Loren's culinary staff at a central station for cuisine.
There in front of my eyes were two dear friends from Bermuda- both calling out my name, with hugs and greetings all around. It was very joyous, having been separated from Bermuda for over three years due to the pandemic. We had a good chat, and all went off to mingle and survey the festivities.
The weather was idyllic. It was very warm and humid- much more so than I had anticipated for December. I chose a floral dress (with ample red and green) in Voile Cotton. I donned bling and silver sandals. No wrap needed!
As I descended the beautiful sweeping stone staircase to witness a thriving party taking shape, I was greeted with a welcome class of champagne and the opportunity to buy tokens for delicious bites that were being served by The Loren's culinary staff at a central station for cuisine.
There in front of my eyes were two dear friends from Bermuda- both calling out my name, with hugs and greetings all around. It was very joyous, having been separated from Bermuda for over three years due to the pandemic. We had a good chat, and all went off to mingle and survey the festivities.
The Chefs and Culinary team at The Loren did an outstanding job of picking bites that were suited for mingling. High top tables dotted the disk and entrance- perfect spots for conversation over bubbly and festive treats. I enjoyed some Chicken Skewers with an array of dipping sauces, among others.
An inquisitive gal by nature, I was thrilled to see the names of familiar businesses- such as pink sand jeweler Alexandra Mosher and Confections (originator of pink sand sprinkles!)- and new businesses that I had never encountered before- Bermuda is Love, Bermuda Biscuits, and Hello Darling Bermuda for example. The creative spirit of the islands was palpable.
An inquisitive gal by nature, I was thrilled to see the names of familiar businesses- such as pink sand jeweler Alexandra Mosher and Confections (originator of pink sand sprinkles!)- and new businesses that I had never encountered before- Bermuda is Love, Bermuda Biscuits, and Hello Darling Bermuda for example. The creative spirit of the islands was palpable.
As I strolled around the market, I can only say that my heart was full. The setting was akin to walking through a little town- one would stroll outside around the disc, along the walkways into the interior where Santa was pouring beverages behind the bar. I felt fortunate to witness a renewed spirit of Bermudians determined to have their products known and loved- locally and abroad. Resilience was in the air.
Hats off to the DJ for this event. The music selections were integral to the success of this party- as is often the case. Favorites old and new wafted through the balmy island air, putting everyone in a joyous mood. As I listened and sang along quietly, with ocean waves crashing around us, I felt inspired.
We can all agree that the worldwide pandemic has taken an awful toll on the world. As we emerge from it, the holidays provide a beacon for us. We can look forward, and we can celebrate!
Despite a temporary downturn in tourism for Bermuda, during this unprecedented chapter in history, the experience of missing tourists seems to have fueled Bermudians to create. This has apparently not only been healing, but is now a sign of great pride and prosperity.
In life, we all interpret experiences based on our own internal makeup. As someone who is known for appreciating nuance- regardless of the setting- I keyed in on the work behind each detail of The Holiday Market. I noticed the details in the design, the signage, the lighting, the music, the menu, the spirit of the crowd. It did not surprise me to learn that the inspiration behind this event came from a nostalgic member of the management team with roots in Germany- home of Europe's renowned Christmas markets.
Folks did not want to leave. Those with whom I spoke were already chatting about next year's event.
Cheers to The Loren! You made it look simply effortless.
Folks did not want to leave. Those with whom I spoke were already chatting about next year's event.
Cheers to The Loren! You made it look simply effortless.
Thank you for your gracious hospitality!
D.
D.
#TheLorenAtPinkBeach #TheLorenHotels #LorenHolidayMarket #DecemberInBermuda #BermudaChristmas #ShopBermudian #APerfectEvent
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