In the Know

Actress Melissa Joan Hart (a beloved friend to many in Westport!) is best known for her memorable leading roles on Clarissa Explains It All and Sabrina the Teenage Witch. But to her family and friends, she’s also known for being something of a Christmas nut. “I’ve always been really into the holidays. I throw big parties this time of year. And with kids, it takes on another level,” says Melissa. Given her enthusiasm for the season, it makes sense that she has starred in four different Christmas flicks. Though she has left Westport for a brief hiatus, she shared some of her holiday favorites with us!

On the website for their new paper goods company, Paper Greats, CT-based founders Heather Terry and Selina Fletcher write: “Life is short—let us take something off of your plate and put it on ours.” You don’t have to ask us twice—and we’re already huge fans of their recycled, recyclable and compostable (read: eco-friendly) paper trays, cups and notepads.

Anyone else all about the Elf on the Shelf this time of year? Since 2004, The Elf on the Shelf brand has grown from a single children’s book, written by mother daughter team Chanda Bell and Carol Aebersold as a way to reconnect with each other and share a personal family tradition with readers, to a veritable industry of toys, clothes (yes, there is a “couture collection” for your temporary addition), pets and even a movie. Thirteen million books—and scout elves, as Chanda and family refer to them—have been sold. The Local Moms Network sat down with Chanda, who still runs the company with her mother and sister Christa Pitts, to talk about this incredible family (and female)-owned business.

You are invited to a Nordic Holiday Children’s Event at Eleish Van Breems Home -a new home furnishing and accessories store - located in historic Saugatuck near the Westport train station - on Saturday, December 15th!   Discover the Swedish Gnomes called Tomte and...

This Thursday, December 13 from 4-7 PM kick your holiday spirit into high gear at the Westport Holiday Stroll in downtown Westport. Downtown merchants will be offering shoppers and visitors in-store Sips & Treats, and select stores will offer gift-wrapping, raffles, gift with purchase and other fun and festive activities.

Local Love cards are available NOW! From Friday, 11/30-12/9, use your Local Love card to shop local, and to support the 100+ amazing businesses (retailers, spas, salons, fitness, and restaurants!) participating in this initiative!

As the holidays – and giving season – continues, It can never hurt to do random acts of kindness and/or to encourage our children to do so! Here is an idea for each day of December!