Summer of ’23 was like no other, by many measures. The town was busier, and more crowded. Parties and events took off with a bang earlier in “the season”, and never let up, including one recent night with three overlapping parties within four blocks of each other… a 300 person wedding and fireworks, overlooking the water, while another party took place at the private beach below

and a masked ball for a fiftieth birthday celebrated into the wee hours in the ballroom of one of Newport’s grand old homes (now a condominium).

Houseguests stayed longer, and shopping opps were plentiful and tempting (perhaps there’s a tie-in?)…all despite the crazed weather patterns. “Mrs. Alice”, Instagram influencer married to an English aristocrat, introduced Newport to her enchanting tabletop collections and linens from her namesake company.

David Webb returned with jewels galore, some of them signature and others beloved, like this monkey pin, sporting a diamond earring and ring with a bracelet on its wrist.

Old favorite views (from all different angles) were revisited …looking north, while having tea and/or cocktails at the Tea House at Marble House.

Or looking west, across rocky shores and coves.

To the bountiful hanging baskets that for years have added a festive summer note to Bellevue Avenue.

Benefits abounded…the Newport Flower Show carried out its much-anticipated annual weekend in its 2023 location at Marble House; here, the terrace’s statue carrying a basket of flowers overlooking the Cut Specimen and Horticulture classes!

While the Tree Conservancy evening took center stage at one of Newport’s private arboretums (also feature image)

There is one Newport dining landmark that is a must-do even given the crowded rooms…the Clarke Cooke House. And specifically, the Sky Bar, with its delicious cuisine, spectacular views, and tres chic decor (deep green lattice and pink and white striped tenting). If you’re fortunate enough to be seated on the 4th floor porch at the railing, you can look down upon an intimate scene straight from “Under the Tuscan Sun.”

A favorite view of Castle Hill from the water.

And closing, on this day, August the 24th, my Ode to Newport blog…Parterre all ready for guests arriving for a garden party!